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TABLE OF CONTENTS
PART IV

Table of Contents

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549



FORM 10-K

(Mark One)    

ý

 

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

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2012.

or

o

 

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

For the transition period from                      

Commission file number 0-21815



FIRST MARINER BANCORP
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Maryland
(State of incorporation)
  52-1834860
(IRS Employer Identification Number)

1501 S. Clinton Street, Baltimore, MD
(Address of principal executive offices)

 

21224
(zip code)

410-342-2600
(Telephone number)

         Securities registered under Section 12(b) of the Exchange Act: None

         Securities registered under Section 12 (g) of the Exchange Act:

 
  Title of Each Class    
    Common Stock, par value $0.05 per share    

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

         The aggregate market value of the voting stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant as of the last business day of the registrant's most recently completed second fiscal quarter was approximately $9.0 million.

         The number of shares of common stock outstanding as of March 15, 2013 was 18,860,482 shares.

         Documents incorporated by reference: Portions of the Proxy Statement for the 2013 Annual Meeting of Stockholders are incorporated by reference in Part III of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

   


Table of Contents

FIRST MARINER BANCORP

Annual Report on Form 10-K

December 31, 2012

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 
   
  Page  

 

PART I

     

Item 1

 

Business

    5  

Item 1A

 

Risk Factors

    20  

Item 2

 

Properties

    35  

Item 3

 

Legal Proceedings

    37  

Item 4

 

Mine Safety Disclosure

    37  

 

PART II

       

Item 5

 

Market for the Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

    38  

Item 6

 

Selected Financial Data

    39  

Item 7

 

Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

    40  

Item 7A

 

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

    81  

Item 8

 

Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

    82  

Item 9

 

Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

    141  

Item 9A

 

Controls and Procedures

    141  

Item 9B

 

Other Information

    143  

 

PART III

       

Item 10

 

Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance

    143  

Item 11

 

Executive Compensation

    143  

Item 12

 

Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters

    143  

Item 13

 

Certain Relationships and Related Transactions and Director Independence

    143  

Item 14

 

Principal Accountant Fees and Services

    143  

 

PART IV

   
 

Item 15

 

Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules

    144  

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CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

        Some of our statements contained in, or incorporated by reference into, this Annual Report on Form 10-K are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. We intend such forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions for forward-looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and are including this statement for purposes of invoking these safe harbor provisions. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of performance or results. When we use words like "may," "plan," "contemplate," "anticipate," "believe," "intend," "continue," "expect," "project," "predict," "estimate," "target," "could," "is likely," "should," "would," "will," and similar expressions, you should consider them as identifying forward-looking statements, although we may use other phrasing. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties and are based on our beliefs and assumptions and on the information available to us at the time that these disclosures were prepared. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties and may not be realized due to a variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the following:

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        All written or oral forward-looking statements attributable to us are expressly qualified in their entirety by this Cautionary Note. Our actual results may differ significantly from those we discuss in these forward-looking statements. For other factors, risks, and uncertainties that could cause our actual results to differ materially from estimates and projections contained in these forward-looking statements, please read the "Risk Factors" in Item 1A of Part I of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date which such statement was made, and, except as required by law, we expressly disclaim any obligation or undertaking to disseminate any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which such statement is made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

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PART I

ITEM 1    BUSINESS

General

        First Mariner Bancorp ("First Mariner") is a bank holding company whose business is conducted primarily through its wholly owned operating subsidiary, First Mariner Bank (the "Bank"). First Mariner was established in 1995 and has total assets in excess of $1.3 billion as of December 31, 2012. Our executive offices are located in the Canton area of Baltimore City at 1501 South Clinton Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21224. Our telephone number is (410) 342-2600.

        We maintain the following Internet sites: www.1stmarinerbank.com; www.1stmarinerbancorp.com; www.1stmarinermortgage.com; and www.vamortgage.com. Information on these websites is not part of, and is not incorporated herein by reference to, this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Our Annual Report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to these reports are available, free of charge, in the investor relations section of our Internet site at www.1stmarinerbancorp.com as soon as reasonably practicable after we have filed them with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC").

        The Bank is currently our only operating subsidiary, with assets exceeding $1.3 billion as of December 31, 2012, and is the largest bank headquartered in Baltimore, Maryland. The Bank was formed in 1995 through the merger of several small financial institutions. The Bank's primary market area for its core banking operations, which consist of traditional commercial and consumer lending, as well as retail and commercial deposit operations, is central Maryland, as well as portions of Maryland's eastern shore. First Mariner Bank is an independent community bank, and its deposits are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation ("FDIC").

        The Bank is engaged in the general commercial banking business, with particular attention and emphasis on the needs of individuals and small to mid-sized businesses, and delivers a wide range of financial products and services that are offered by many larger competitors. Products and services include traditional deposit products, a variety of consumer and commercial loans, residential and commercial mortgage and construction loans, money transfer services, nondeposit investment products, and mobile and Internet banking and similar services. Most importantly, the Bank provides customers with access to local Bank officers who are empowered to act with flexibility to meet customers' needs in an effort to foster and develop long-term loan and deposit relationships.

        First Mariner Mortgage, a division of the Bank, engages in mortgage-banking activities, providing mortgages and associated products to customers and selling most of those mortgages into the secondary market. First Mariner Mortgage has offices in Maryland, Delaware, Virginia, and North Carolina. See Item 7 in Part II of this Annual Report on Form 10-K and Note 19 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for more detailed information on the results of our mortgage-banking operations.

        We do not conduct any foreign operations.

        We operate in two business segments—commercial and consumer banking and mortgage-banking. Financial information related to our operations in these segments for each of the three years ended December 31, 2012 is provided in Note 19 to our Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8 of Part II of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Our Business Strategy

        We are currently focused on improving earnings, liquidity, capital adequacy, and controlling asset growth. In order to achieve our objectives, our strategy is to:

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Financial Services We Provide

Commercial Banking

        Our commercial loan unit focuses on loan originations from small and mid-sized businesses (generally up to $20.0 million in annual sales) and such loans may be accompanied by significant related deposits. Our commercial loan products include commercial mortgage loans for the purchase or refinance of commercial properties; residential and commercial real estate construction and development loans; working capital loans and lines of credit; demand, term, and time loans; and equipment, inventory, and accounts receivable financing. We also offer an array of cash management services and deposit products to our commercial customers, including computerized on-line banking and remote deposit.

Retail Banking

        Our retail banking activities emphasize consumer deposit and checking accounts. We offer an extensive range of services to meet the varied needs of our customers of all age demographics. In addition to traditional banking products and services, we offer contemporary products and services, such as debit cards, mutual funds, annuities, insurance products, Internet banking, electronic bill payment, mobile banking, and personal financial management services. Our consumer loan products include home equity lines of credit, fixed-rate second mortgages, new and used auto loans, new and used boat loans, overdraft protection, and unsecured personal credit lines.

Mortgage-Banking

        Our mortgage-banking business is structured to provide a source of fee income largely from the process of originating residential mortgage loans for sale in the secondary market, as well as the origination of loans to be held in our loan portfolio. Mortgage-banking products include Federal

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Housing Administration ("FHA") and the federal Veterans Administration ("VA") loans, conventional and nonconforming first- and second-lien mortgages, and construction and permanent financing.

Our Lending Activities

Loan Portfolio Composition

        At December 31, 2012, our loan portfolio totaled $610.4 million, representing 44.3% of our total assets of $1.4 billion. The majority of our lending activity is in the Mid-Atlantic region and our loans are generally secured by residential and commercial real estate. At December 31, 2012, approximately 89% of our total loans were secured by real estate.

Commercial Loans

        The Bank originates a variety of loans for business purposes. The majority of our commercial loans are secured. The Bank makes loans to provide working capital to businesses in the form of lines of credit, which may be secured by real estate, accounts receivable, inventory, equipment, or other assets. The financial condition and cash flow of our commercial borrowers are closely monitored by the submission of corporate financial statements, personal financial statements, and income tax returns. The frequency of submissions of required financial information depends on the size and complexity of the credit and the collateral that secures our loan. It is our general policy to obtain personal guarantees from the principals of our commercial loan borrowers.

Commercial Mortgage Loans

        The Bank originates mortgage loans secured by commercial real estate. These loans are primarily secured by office buildings, retail buildings, warehouses, and general-purpose business space. Although terms may vary, these commercial mortgage loans generally have maturities of 10 years or less. It is our general policy to obtain personal guarantees from the principals of the borrowers and assignments of all leases related to the collateral.

Commercial and Consumer Construction Loans

        The Bank provides interim real estate acquisition, development, and construction loans to builders, developers, and persons who will ultimately occupy their single-family dwellings. These loans are made within the Federal regulatory guidelines for maximum loan-to-value ("LTV") ratios. Generally, residential construction loans are made for up to 80% of the appraised value of the property for both individuals and developers. Residential construction loans to developers may be made for over 80% of the appraised value of the property with additional credit enhancements, such as additional collateral. Commercial real estate construction loans are generally made for 75% or less of the appraised value of the property. Development loans, made to improve raw land into lots on which structures may be built, are generally made for 75% or less of the appraised value of the property. The Bank's real estate development and construction loan funds are disbursed periodically at pre-specified stages of completion. We carefully monitor these loans with on-site inspections and control of disbursements. The Bank's real estate development and construction loans are typical debt obligations of the borrowers and do not provide for our participation in residual profits or losses of the projects or involve equity positions through partnerships, joint ventures, or other similar structures.

        Loans to individuals for the construction of their primary residences are typically secured by the property under construction, frequently include additional collateral (such as a second mortgage on the borrower's present home), and commonly have maturities of nine to twelve months.

        Loans to residential builders for the construction of residential homes require binding sales contracts on the property and pre-qualification of the prospective buyers for permanent mortgage

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financing. Development loans are made only to developers with a proven track record. Generally, these loans are extended only when the borrower provides evidence that the lots under development will be sold to builders satisfactory to us.

        The Bank secures development and construction loans with the properties under development or construction and we typically obtain personal guarantees from the principals. Further, to assure that we do not place reliance solely in the value of the underlying property, we consider the financial condition and reputation of the borrower and any guarantors, the amount of the borrowers' equity in the project, independent appraisals, costs estimates, and preconstruction sales information. We have significantly limited our development lending activities over the past five years.

Residential Mortgage Loans

        The Bank originates adjustable- and fixed-rate residential mortgage loans. These mortgage loans are generally originated under terms, conditions, and documentation acceptable to the secondary mortgage market. The Bank will place some of these loans into our portfolio, although the vast majority are ultimately sold to investors.

Consumer Loans

        The Bank offers a variety of consumer loans, typically secured by residential real estate or personal property, including automobiles and boats. Our home equity loans (closed-end and lines of credit) are typically made up to 70% to 80% of the appraised value, less the amount of any existing prior liens on the property and generally have maximum terms of 15 years. The interest rates on our closed-end home equity loans are fixed, while interest rates on our home equity lines of credit are variable.

Community Reinvestment Act ("CRA")

        We have a strong commitment to our responsibilities under the federal CRA and actively search for opportunities to meet the development needs of all members of the communities we serve, including persons of low to moderate income in a manner consistent with safe and sound banking practices. We currently fulfill this commitment primarily by participating in loan programs sponsored or guaranteed by the FHA, the VA, the federally funded Neighborhood Stabilization Program, the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development Loans Program, the Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta ("FHLB") Closing Cost Assistance Program, the Section 8 to Home-Ownership Program, and the Settlement Expense Loan Program.

        See Item 7 of Part II of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for more detailed information concerning our loan portfolio, the individual portfolio segments, and their effect on 2012 operations.

Our Credit Administration Process

        Our lending activities are subject to written policies approved by the Bank's Board of Directors to ensure proper management of credit risk. We make loans that are subject to a well-defined credit process that includes credit evaluation of borrowers, risk-rating of credits, establishment of lending limits and application of lending procedures, including the holding of adequate collateral and the maintenance of compensating balances, as well as procedures for on-going identification and management of credit deterioration. We conduct regular portfolio reviews to identify potential underperforming credits, estimate loss exposure, geographic and industry concentrations, and to ascertain compliance with our policies. For significant problem loans, we review and evaluate the financial strengths of our borrower and any guarantor, the related collateral, and the effects of economic conditions.

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        The loan committee of the Bank's Board of Directors is authorized to approve loans up to the Bank's legal lending limit, which is approximately $9.4 million as of December 31, 2012. We have established an in-house limit of $5.0 million, which is reviewed periodically by the Board of Directors, but we do have loans to a limited number of customers in excess of that amount.

        We generally do not make loans to be held in our loan portfolio outside our market area unless the borrower has an established relationship with us and conducts its principal business operations within our market area. Consequently, we, and our borrowers, are affected by the economic conditions prevailing in our market area. Approximately 26% of our residential real estate development and construction loan portfolio consisted of loans to Maryland customers and the remaining 74% consisted of loans to customers in the surrounding states and the District of Columbia. Approximately 84% of our commercial loan portfolio (commercial, commercial mortgage, and commercial construction) consisted of loans to Maryland customers with an additional 14% consisting of loans to customers in the surrounding states and the District of Columbia. Commercial and commercial real estate loans to customers in other states in the country amounted to approximately 2% of our portfolio.

Market

        We consider our core market area to be the communities within the Baltimore/Washington corridor, particularly Baltimore City and the Maryland counties of Baltimore, Anne Arundel, Carroll, Harford, and Howard, as well as the eastern shore of Maryland. Lending activities are broader and include areas outside of our core market area such as other Maryland counties, the District of Columbia, and certain markets in contiguous states, as well as certain regional and national markets.

Our Competition

Banking

        We operate in a highly competitive environment, competing for deposits and loans with commercial banks, thrifts, credit unions, mortgage companies, finance companies, Internet-based financial companies, and other financial entities. Our principal competitors include other community commercial banks and larger financial institutions with branches in our market area. Numerous mergers and consolidations involving financial entities in our market area have required us to compete with banks and finance companies with greater resources. Additionally, certain financial institutions received various amounts of government financial assistance in accordance with legislation passed in late 2008, giving those institutions greater resources with which to compete in our market. See "Supervision and Regulation" later in this section for further information on government legislation.

        The primary factors we face in competing for deposits are interest rates, personalized service, the quality and range of financial services, convenience of office locations, and office hours. Competition for deposits comes primarily from other commercial banks, savings associations, credit unions, money market funds, Internet based banks, and other investment alternatives. The primary factors in competing for loans are interest rates, loan origination fees, the quality and range of lending services, responsiveness, and personalized service. Competition for loans comes primarily from other commercial banks, savings associations, mortgage-banking firms (see discussion on mortgage-banking competition below), credit unions, finance companies, and other financial intermediaries. Many of the financial institutions operating in our market area offer certain services such as trust and international banking, which we do not offer, and have greater financial resources or have substantially higher lending limits.

        To compete with other financial services providers, we principally rely upon local promotional activities, personal relationships established by our officers, directors, and employees with our customers, and specialized services tailored to meet our customers' needs. In those instances where we are unable to accommodate a customer's needs, we will arrange for those services to be provided by other financial institutions with which we have a relationship.

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        Current banking laws facilitate interstate branching and merger activity among banks. This may result in an even greater degree of competition in the banking industry and we may be brought into competition with institutions with which we do not currently compete. As a result, intense competition in our market area may be expected to continue for the foreseeable future.

Mortgage-banking

        Our mortgage-banking division also operates in an extremely competitive environment where we compete primarily with mortgage-banking divisions of other financial institutions, which may be larger than we are and have greater resources. Additionally, competition in the mortgage-banking industry comes from the continuing evolution of the secondary mortgage market, the proliferation of mortgage products, increasing interest rate volatility, compounded by homeowners' increasing tendency to refinance their mortgages as the refinance process becomes more efficient and cost effective. These swings in mortgage origination volume have placed significant operational and financial pressures on mortgage lenders.

        To compete effectively in this environment, we maintain a very high level of operational, technological, and managerial expertise, consistently offer a wide selection of mortgage loans through all marketing channels on a regional scale, provide high-quality service, and price our mortgage loans at competitive rates.

Supervision and Regulation

General

        First Mariner and the Bank are extensively regulated under federal and state law. As a registered bank holding company, First Mariner is subject to supervision and examination by and reporting to the Federal Reserve Board ("FRB" or "Federal Reserve").

        The Bank is a member of the FHLB System and, with respect to deposit insurance, of the Deposit Insurance Fund ("DIF") managed by the FDIC. The Bank must file reports with the Maryland Commissioner of Financial Regulation ("Commissioner") and the FDIC concerning its activities and financial condition and obtain regulatory approvals prior to entering into certain transactions such as mergers with, or acquisitions of, other banks. The Commissioner and/or the FDIC conduct periodic examinations to test the Bank's safety and soundness and compliance with various regulatory requirements. This regulation and supervision is intended primarily for the protection of the insurance fund and depositors. The regulatory structure also gives the regulatory authorities extensive discretion in connection with their supervisory and enforcement activities and examination policies, including with respect to the classification of assets and the establishment of adequate loan loss reserves for regulatory purposes. Any change in such regulatory requirements and policies, whether by the Commissioner, the FDIC, or other legislative bodies, could have a material adverse impact on First Mariner, the Bank, and their operations.

        The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2011 (the "Dodd-Frank Act") made extensive changes in the regulation of financial institutions and their holding companies. The Dodd-Frank Act requires various federal agencies to adopt a broad range of new implementing rules and regulations, and to prepare numerous studies and reports for Congress. The federal agencies are given significant discretion in drafting the implementing rules and regulations, and consequently, many of the details and much of the impact of the Dodd-Frank Act may not be known for many months or years.

        Certain provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act are expected to have a near term impact on First Mariner and the Bank. For example, the Dodd-Frank Act created a new Consumer Financial Protection Bureau ("the "Bureau") as an independent bureau of the FRB. The Bureau assumed

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responsibility for the implementation of the federal financial consumer protection and fair lending laws and regulations and has authority to impose new requirements. However, institutions of less than $10 billion in assets, such as the Bank, will continue to be examined for compliance with consumer protection and fair lending laws and regulations by, and be subject to the enforcement authority of, their primary regulator, although the Bureau will have back-up authority to examine and enforce consumer protection laws against all institutions, including institutions with less than $10 billion in assets.

        Certain regulatory requirements applicable to First Mariner and the Bank, including some of the changes made by the Dodd-Frank Act, are referred to below or elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. The summary of statutory provisions and regulations set forth below or elsewhere does not purport to be a complete description of such statutes and regulations and their effects on First Mariner and the Bank.

Regulation of First Mariner

General

        First Mariner, as the sole shareholder of the Bank, is a bank holding company and is registered as such with the FRB. Bank holding companies are subject to comprehensive regulation and examination by the FRB under the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended (the "BHCA"), and the regulations of the FRB. The FRB also has extensive enforcement authority over bank holding companies, including, among other things, the ability to assess civil money penalties, issue cease and desist or removal orders, and require that a holding company divest subsidiaries. In general, enforcement actions may be initiated for violations of law and regulations and unsafe or unsound practices. First Mariner has entered into a written agreement with the FRB. See Item 1A—"Risk Factors" later in Part I of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional information on the agreement with the FRB. See also "Capital Resources" in Item 7 of Part II of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

        Under the BHCA, a bank holding company must obtain Federal Reserve approval before: (i) acquiring, directly or indirectly, ownership or control of any voting shares of another bank or bank holding company if, after such acquisition, it would own or control more than 5% of such shares (unless it already owns or controls the majority of such shares); (ii) acquiring all or substantially all of the assets of another bank or bank holding company; or (iii) merging or consolidating with another bank holding company. In evaluating such applications, the FRB considers a variety of financial, managerial, and competitive factors and the convenience and needs of the communities involved.

        The BHCA also prohibits a bank holding company, with certain exceptions, from acquiring direct or indirect ownership or control of more than 5% of the voting shares of any company which is not a bank or bank holding company, or from engaging directly or indirectly in activities other than those of banking, managing, or controlling banks or providing services for its subsidiaries. The principal exceptions to these prohibitions involve certain nonbanking activities which, by statute or by FRB regulation or order, have been identified as activities closely related to the business of banking or managing or controlling banks. The list of activities includes, among others, operating a savings association, mortgage company, finance company, credit card company, or factoring company; performing certain data processing operations; providing certain investment and financial advice; real estate and personal property appraising; providing tax planning and preparation services; and, subject to certain limitations, providing securities brokerage services for customers.

Dividends

        The FRB has issued a policy statement on the payment of cash dividends by bank holding companies that expresses the FRB's view that a bank holding company should pay cash dividends only

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to the extent that the company's net income for the past year is sufficient to cover both the cash dividends and a rate of earnings retention that is consistent with the company's capital needs, asset quality, and overall financial condition. The FRB has indicated that it would be inappropriate for a company experiencing serious financial problems to borrow funds to pay dividends. Furthermore, under the prompt corrective action regulations adopted by the Federal Reserve pursuant to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Improvement Act of 1991 ("FDICIA"), the FRB may prohibit a bank holding company from paying any dividends if the holding company's bank subsidiary is classified as "undercapitalized." See "Regulation of the Bank—Prompt Corrective Regulatory Action" later in this section.

Capital Requirements

        The Dodd-Frank Act requires the FRB to issue consolidated regulatory capital requirements for bank holding companies that are at least as stringent as those applicable to insured depository institutions. Such regulations, when finalized, will eliminate the use of certain instruments, such as cumulative preferred stock and trust preferred securities, as Tier I holding company capital. However, instruments issued before May 19, 2010 by bank holding companies with less than $15 billion of consolidated assets are grandfathered. Such grandfathering applies to certain trust preferred securities issued by First Mariner, although at December 31, 2012, none of our trust preferred securities qualified for use in our capital calculations due to certain limitations.

Stock Repurchases

        A bank holding company is required to give the FRB prior written notice of any purchase or redemption of its outstanding equity securities if the gross consideration for the purchase or redemption, when combined with the net consideration paid for all such purchases or redemptions during the preceding 12 months, is equal to 10% or more of the company's consolidated net worth. The FRB may disapprove such a purchase or redemption if it determines that the proposal would violate any law, regulation, FRB order, directive, or any condition imposed by, or written agreement with, the FRB. This requirement does not apply to bank holding companies that are "well capitalized," received one of the two highest examination ratings at their last examination, and are not the subject of any unresolved supervisory issues.

Source of Strength

        Under FRB policy, a bank holding company is expected to act as a source of financial strength to its subsidiary banks and to make capital injections into a troubled subsidiary bank, and generally the FRB may charge the bank holding company with engaging in unsafe and unsound practices for failure to commit resources to a subsidiary bank when required. A required capital injection may be called for at a time when the holding company does not have the resources to provide it. The Dodd-Frank Act contained provisions codifying the source of strength doctrine and requiring the promulgation of regulations. It is not known when such regulations will be finalized.

        In addition, depository institutions insured by the FDIC can be held liable for any losses incurred by, or reasonably anticipated to be incurred by, the FDIC in connection with the default of, or assistance provided to, a commonly controlled FDIC-insured depository institution. Accordingly, in the event that any insured subsidiary of First Mariner causes a loss to the FDIC, other insured subsidiaries could be required to compensate the FDIC by reimbursing it for the estimated amount of such loss. Such cross guaranty liabilities generally are superior in priority to the obligations of the depository institution to its stockholders due solely to their status as stockholders and obligations to other affiliates. At December 31, 2012, the Bank was the only subsidiary depository institution of First Mariner.

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Acquisitions of Bank Holding Companies and Banks

        Under the BHCA, any company must obtain approval of the FRB prior to acquiring control of First Mariner or the Bank. For purposes of the BHCA, control is defined as ownership of more than 25% of any class of voting securities of First Mariner or the Bank, the ability to control the election of a majority of the directors, or the exercise of a controlling influence over management or policies of First Mariner or the Bank. Any bank holding company must secure FRB approval prior to acquiring 5% or more of the stock of First Mariner or the Bank.

        The Change in Bank Control Act and the related regulations of the FRB require any person or persons acting in concert (except for companies required to make application under the BHCA), to file a written notice with, and review the nonobjection of, the FRB before such person or persons may acquire direct or indirect control of First Mariner. The Change in Bank Control Act implementing regulations presume control as the power, directly or indirectly, to vote 10% or more of any voting securities or to direct the management or policies of a bank holding company, such as First Mariner, that has securities registered under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Exchange Act").

Maryland Bank Holding Company Regulation

        Under Maryland law, acquisitions of 25% or more of the voting stock of a Maryland commercial bank or a Maryland bank holding company and other acquisitions of voting stock of such entities which affect the power to direct or to cause the direction of the management or policy of a commercial bank or a bank holding company must be approved in advance by the Commissioner. Any voting stock acquired without the approval required under the statute may not be voted for a period of five years. Certain acquisitions by bank holding companies of 5% or more of the stock of Maryland banks or Maryland bank holding companies are governed by Maryland's holding company statute and also require prior approval of the Commissioner. Also, a bank holding company and its Maryland chartered bank subsidiary, must generally obtain the prior approval of the Commissioner prior to, directly or indirectly, acquiring nonbanking subsidiaries or affiliates.

Regulation of the Bank

        The Bank is a Maryland chartered trust company, with all the powers of a commercial bank, regulated and examined by the Commissioner and the FDIC.

Business Activities

        Maryland law and the Commissioner regulate the Bank's internal organization as well as deposit, lending, and investment activities. In its lending activities, the maximum legal rate of interest, fees, and charges that may be charged on a particular loan depends on a variety of factors such as the type of borrower, the purpose of the loan, the amount of the loan, and the date the loan is made. Other laws tie the maximum amount that may be loaned to any one customer and related interests to a financial institution's capital levels. Additionally, Maryland law contains a parity statute by which Maryland institutions may, with the approval of the Commissioner, engage in any additional activity, service, or other practice that is permitted for national banks.

        The FDIC also regulates many of the areas regulated by the Commissioner and federal law may limit some of the authority provided by Maryland law. Approval of the Commissioner and the FDIC is required for, among other things, business combinations and the establishment of branch offices.

Branching Activities

        Any Maryland-chartered bank meeting certain requirements may, with the approval of the Commissioner and the FDIC, establish and operate branches anywhere in the state.

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Interstate Branching

        Federal law authorizes the responsible federal banking agencies to approve merger transactions between banks located in different states unless the state in which the target is located has opted out. Accordingly, a Maryland bank may acquire branches in a state other than Maryland unless the other state has enacted legislation opting out. Federal law also authorizes de novo branching into another state. The Dodd-Frank Act removed a requirement that host states enact a law expressly permitting out of state banks to establish such branches within its borders.

Activities and Investments

        Since the enactment of FDICIA, all state-chartered FDIC insured banks have generally been limited to activities as principal to those authorized for national banks, notwithstanding any broader authority that may exist in state law. Additionally, FDICIA limits equity investments by state banks to the types and amounts permitted for national banks, subject to certain exceptions. For example, the FDIC is authorized to permit banks to engage in state-authorized activities or investments that are impermissible for national banks (other than nonsubsidiary equity investments) if the bank meets all applicable capital requirements and it is determined that the activities or investments do not pose a significant risk to the DIF.

Capital Requirements

        The Bank is subject to the FDIC's regulatory capital requirements. The capital regulations currently require state banks to meet two minimum capital standards: a 4% Tier I (or "core") capital to adjusted average quarterly assets ("leverage") ratio (3% for institutions receiving the highest rating on the depository institution examination rating system) and an 8% total risk-based capital ratio.

        Tier I capital is generally defined as common stockholders' equity (including retained earnings), certain noncumulative perpetual preferred stock, and related surplus and minority interests in equity accounts of consolidated subsidiaries, less certain deferred tax assets and intangibles other than certain mortgage-servicing rights ("MSRs") and credit card relationships.

        The risk-based capital standard requires the maintenance of Tier I and total capital (which is defined as Tier I capital plus Tier II (or "supplementary") capital) to risk-weighted assets of at least 4% and 8%, respectively. In determining risk-weighted assets, all assets, including certain off-balance sheet items, recourse obligations, residual interests, and direct credit substitutes, are multiplied by risk weightings of 0% to 200%, which are assigned by the FDIC capital regulation based on the risks believed inherent in the type of asset. The components of Tier II capital currently include cumulative preferred stock, long-term perpetual preferred stock, mandatory convertible securities, subordinated debt and intermediate preferred stock, the allowance for loan and lease losses up to a maximum of 1.25% of risk-weighted assets, and up to 45% of unrealized gains on available-for-sale ("AFS") equity securities with readily determinable fair market values. Overall, the amount of Tier II capital included as total capital cannot exceed 100% of Tier I capital.

        The FDIC also has authority to establish individual minimum capital requirements in appropriate cases upon a determination that an institution's capital level is or may become inadequate in light of the particular circumstances. The FDIC has done so in the case of the Bank. See Item 1A—"Risk Factors" later in Part I of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional information on the Bank's agreements with its various regulators. See also "Capital Resources" in Item 7 of Part II of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

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Basel III Proposal

        In the summer of 2012, our primary federal regulators, published two notices of proposed rulemaking (the "2012 Capital Proposals") that would substantially revise the risk-based capital requirements applicable to bank holding companies and depository institutions, including First Mariner and the Bank, compared to the current U.S. risk-based capital rules, which are based on the international capital accords of the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (the "Basel Committee") which are generally referred to as "Basel I."

        One of the 2012 Capital Proposals (the "Basel III Proposal") addresses the components of capital and other issues affecting the numerator in banking institutions' regulatory capital ratios and would implement the Basel Committee's December 2010 framework, known as "Basel III," for strengthening international capital standards. The other proposal (the "Standardized Approach Proposal") addresses risk weights and other issues affecting the denominator in banking institutions' regulatory capital ratios and would replace the existing Basel I-derived risk-weighting approach with a more risk-sensitive approach based, in part, on the standardized approach in the Basel Committee's 2004 "Basel II" capital accords. Although the Basel III Proposal was proposed to come into effect on January 1, 2013, the federal banking agencies jointly announced on November 9, 2012 that they do not expect any of the proposed rules to become effective on that date. As proposed, the Standardized Approach Proposal would come into effect on January 1, 2015.

        The federal banking agencies have not proposed rules implementing the final liquidity framework of Basel III and have not determined to what extent they will apply to U.S. banks that are not large, internationally active banks.

        The regulations ultimately applicable to financial institutions may be substantially different from the Basel III final framework as published in December 2010 and the proposed rules issued in June 2012. Management will continue to monitor these and any future proposals submitted by our regulators.

Prompt Corrective Regulatory Action

        Federal law requires the appropriate federal regulatory agency to take certain supervisory actions against undercapitalized institutions, the severity of which depends upon the institution's degree of undercapitalization. Generally, a bank that has a ratio of total capital to risk-weighted assets of less than 8%, a ratio of Tier I capital to risk-weighted assets of less than 4%, or a leverage ratio of less than 4% (3% or less for institutions with the highest examination rating) is considered to be "undercapitalized." A bank that has a total risk-based capital ratio of less than 6%, a Tier I capital ratio of less than 3%, or a leverage ratio that is less than 3% is considered to be "significantly undercapitalized" and a bank that has a tangible capital to assets ratio equal to or less than 2% is deemed to be "critically undercapitalized." Subject to a narrow exception, a receiver or conservator must be appointed within specified time frames for an institution that is "critically undercapitalized." The law also provides that an acceptable restoration plan must be filed within 45 days of the date a bank receives notice that it is "undercapitalized," "significantly undercapitalized," or "critically undercapitalized." Compliance with the plan must be guaranteed by any parent company up to the lesser of 5% of the Bank's total assets when deemed to be undercapitalized or the amount necessary to achieve compliance with all applicable capital requirements. In addition, certain mandatory supervisory actions become applicable to any undercapitalized institution including, but not limited to, increased monitoring by regulators and restrictions on growth, capital distributions (including dividends), and expansion. The FDIC can also take additional discretionary supervisory actions, including the issuance of a capital directive, requiring the sale of the institution, and the replacement of senior executive officers and directors. See Item 1A—"Risk Factors" later in Part I and "Capital Resources" in Item 7 of Part II of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional information on the Bank's agreements

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with its various regulators and our capital resources and noncompliance with directed capital requirements.

Safety and Soundness Guidelines

        Federal law requires each federal banking agency to establish safety and soundness standards for institutions under its authority. The federal banking agencies, including the FDIC, have released Interagency Guidelines Establishing Standards for Safety and Soundness. The guidelines specify basic standards for matters such as internal controls and information systems, internal audit systems, loan documentation, credit underwriting, interest rate risk exposure and asset growth, asset quality, earnings, and employee compensation. If the appropriate federal banking agency determines that a depository institution is not in compliance with the safety and soundness guidelines, it may require the institution to submit an acceptable plan to achieve compliance with the guidelines. The institution must submit an acceptable compliance plan within 30 days of receipt of a request for such a plan. Failure to submit or implement a compliance plan may result in regulatory sanctions.

Uniform Lending Standards

        Under FDIC's regulations, state banks must adopt and maintain written policies that establish appropriate limits and standards for loans that are secured by interests in real estate or are made for the purpose of financing permanent improvements to real estate. The policies must establish loan portfolio diversification standards, prudent underwriting standards, including LTV limits that are clear and measurable, loan administration procedures and documentation, and loan approval and reporting requirements. Such real estate lending policies must reflect the Interagency Guidelines for Real Estate Lending Policies that have been adopted by the federal banking agencies.

Transactions with Related Parties

        Transactions between a bank and any affiliate are governed by Sections 23A and 23B of the Federal Reserve Act. An affiliate is any company or entity, which controls, is controlled by or is under common control with the bank. For example, First Mariner is an affiliate of the Bank's for purposes of those laws. Generally, Sections 23A and 23B: (i) limit the extent to which an institution or its subsidiaries may engage in "covered transactions" with any one affiliate to an amount equal to 10% of such institution's capital stock and surplus, and contain an aggregate limit on all such transactions with all affiliates to an amount equal to 20% of such capital stock and surplus; (ii) impose collateral requirements on certain transactions with, including loans to, affiliates; and (iii) require that all such transactions be on terms substantially the same, or at least as favorable, to the institution or subsidiary as those provided to a nonaffiliate. The term "covered transaction" includes loans to, purchases of assets from, and the issuance of guarantees on behalf of an affiliate and certain other transactions.

        Banks also are subject to the federal restrictions on loans to executive officers, directors, and greater than 10% stockholders (collectively, "insiders"). Generally, loans to insiders and certain related interests must be approved in advance by a majority of the board of directors of the institution, with any "interested" director not participating in the voting, if the loan exceeds the greater of $25,000 or 5% of the bank's capital. Any loan which, combined with prior loans to the insider and their related interest, aggregates $500,000 or more are subject to the board's approval requirements in all cases. Loans to insiders must be made on terms substantially the same as offered in comparable transactions to outside parties. There is an exception for extensions of credit made to officers and directors as part of a bank-wide compensation or benefit program that does not favor directors or officers over other employees. There are further restrictions on loans that can be made to executive officers.

        Additionally, Maryland law imposes restrictions on loans to directors, officers, or employees of Maryland commercial banks. Generally, a director, officer, or employee of a commercial bank may not

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borrow, directly or indirectly, any money from the bank, unless the loan has been approved by the board of directors, or the executive committee of the bank, if that committee is authorized to approve loans. Commercial loans made to nonemployee directors of a bank and certain consumer loans made to nonofficer and nondirector employees of a bank are exempted.

Dividend Restrictions

        A Maryland bank's ability to pay dividends is governed by Maryland law and the regulations of the FDIC. Under Maryland law, if the surplus of a commercial bank is less than 100% of its capital stock then, until the surplus equals at least 100% of the capital stock, the commercial bank: (i) must transfer to its surplus annually at least 10% of its net earnings and (ii) may not declare or pay any cash dividends that exceed 90% of its net earnings. Maryland law provides for dividends only out of undivided profits or, with the approval of the Commissioner, surplus in excess of 100% of required capital stock. Also, under FDIC regulations, no bank may pay a dividend if it would be "undercapitalized" within the meaning of the prompt corrective action laws, or if it is in default of any deposit insurance assessment. See also Item 1A—"Risk Factors—Our ability to pay cash dividends is limited" later in Part I of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Enforcement

        The Commissioner has extensive enforcement authority over Maryland banks. Such authority includes the ability to issue cease and desist orders and civil money penalties and to remove directors or officers. The Commissioner may also take possession of a Maryland bank whose capital is impaired and seek to have a receiver appointed by a court.

        The FDIC has primary federal enforcement responsibility over state banks under its jurisdiction, including the authority to bring enforcement action against all "institution-related parties," including stockholders and any attorneys, appraisers, and accountants who knowingly or recklessly participate in wrongful action likely to have an adverse effect on an institution. Formal enforcement action may range from the issuance of a capital directive or cease and desist order to removal of officers and/or directors, receivership, conservatorship, or termination of deposit insurance. Civil money penalties cover a wide range of violations and actions and range up to $25,000 per day or even up to $1 million per day (in the most egregious cases). Criminal penalties for most financial institution crimes include fines of up to $1 million and imprisonment for up to 30 years.

        The Bank has entered into a Consent Order with the FDIC and the Commissioner. See Item 1A—"Risk Factors" later in Part I and "Capital Resources" in Item 7 of Part II of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Community Reinvestment Act

        Under the CRA, as implemented by FDIC regulations, a bank has a continuing and affirmative obligation, consistent with its safe and sound operation, to help meet the credit needs of its entire community, including low and moderate income neighborhoods. The CRA does not establish specific lending requirements or programs for financial institutions, nor does it limit an institution's discretion to develop the types of products and services that it believes are best suited to its particular community. The CRA requires the FDIC, in connection with its examination of a bank, to assess the institution's record of meeting the credit needs of its community and to take the record into account in its evaluation of certain applications by the institution.

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Assessments

        Maryland banks are required to pay annual assessments to the Commissioner's office to cover the cost of regulating Maryland institutions. The Bank's asset size determines the amount of the assessment.

Insurance of Deposit Accounts

        The Bank's deposits are insured up to applicable limits by the DIF of the FDIC. Under the FDIC's risk-based assessment system, insured institutions are assigned to one of four risk categories based on supervisory evaluations, regulatory capital levels, and certain other factors, with less risky institutions paying lower assessments. An institution's assessment rate depends upon the category to which it is assigned. The Dodd-Frank Act required the FDIC to amend its procedures to base assessments on total assets less tangible equity rather than deposits and on February 7, 2011, the FDIC issued final rules, effective April 1, 2011, implementing resultant changes to the assessment rules. Initially, the base assessment rates range from 2.5 to 45 basis points. The rate schedules will automatically adjust in the future when the DIF reaches certain milestones. No institution may pay a dividend if in default of the federal deposit insurance assessment.

        In order to cover losses to the DIF, the FDIC imposed on all insured institutions a special emergency assessment of five basis points of total assets minus Tier I capital, as of June 30, 2009 (capped at ten basis points of an institution's deposit assessment base). That special assessment was collected on September 30, 2009. In lieu of further special assessments, the FDIC required insured institutions to prepay estimated quarterly risk-based assessments for the fourth quarter of 2009 through the fourth quarter of 2012. The Bank received an automatic waiver of the prepayment requirement. These estimated assessments include an assumed annual assessment base increase of 5%.

        Due to the recent difficult economic conditions, deposit insurance per account owner was raised to $250,000 for all types of accounts. That coverage was made permanent by the Dodd-Frank Act. In addition, the FDIC adopted an optional Temporary Liquidity Guarantee Program by which, for a fee, noninterest bearing transaction accounts would receive unlimited insurance coverage until June 30, 2010, subsequently extended to December 31, 2010 and then to December 31, 2012 by the Dodd-Frank Act, and certain senior unsecured debt issued by institutions and their holding companies between October 13, 2008 and December 31, 2010 would be guaranteed by the FDIC through June 30, 2012, or in some cases, December 31, 2012. The Bank participated in the unlimited noninterest bearing transaction account coverage. The Bank and First Mariner opted to participate in the unsecured debt guarantee program.

        In addition to the assessment for deposit insurance, institutions are required to make payments on bonds issued in the late 1980s by the Financing Corporation to recapitalize a predecessor deposit insurance fund.

        The Dodd-Frank Act increased the minimum target DIF ratio from 1.15% of estimated insured deposits to 1.35% of estimated insured deposits. The FDIC must seek to achieve the 1.35% ratio by September 30, 2020. Insured institutions with assets of $10 billion or more are supposed to fund the increase. The Dodd-Frank Act eliminated the 1.5% maximum fund ratio, instead leaving it to the discretion of the FDIC.

        The FDIC has authority to increase insurance assessments. A significant increase in insurance premiums would likely have an adverse effect on the operating expenses and results of operations of the Company. Management cannot predict what insurance assessment rates will be in the future.

        Insurance of deposits may be terminated by the FDIC upon a finding that the institution has engaged in unsafe or unsound practices, is in an unsafe or unsound condition to continue operations, or has violated any applicable law, regulation, rule, order or condition imposed by the FDIC.

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Federal Reserve System

        Federal Reserve regulations require depository institutions to maintain reserves against their transaction accounts (primarily NOW and regular checking accounts). The regulations currently provide that reserves be maintained against aggregate transaction accounts as follows: a 3% reserve ratio is assessed on net transaction accounts up to and including $79.5 million; a 10% reserve ratio is applied above $79.5 million. The first $12.4 million of otherwise reservable balances are exempted from the reserve requirements. These amounts are adjusted annually. The Bank is in compliance with the foregoing requirements.

Mortgage Banking and Related Consumer Protection Regulations

        The retail activities of banks, including our mortgage-banking operation, are subject to a variety of statutes and regulations designed to protect consumers. Interest and other charges collected or contracted for by banks are subject to state usury laws and federal laws concerning interest rates. Loan operations are also subject to federal laws applicable to credit transactions, such as:

        Deposit operations also are subject to:

        In addition, the Bank and its subsidiaries may also be subject to certain state laws and regulations designed to protect consumers.

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        Many of the foregoing laws and regulations are subject to change resulting from the provisions in the Dodd-Frank Act, which in many cases calls for revisions to implementing regulations. In addition, oversight responsibilities of these and other consumer protection laws and regulations will, to a certain extent, be subject to the oversight of not only the Bank's primary regulators, but also the Bureau. We cannot predict the effect of an additional regulatory authority focused on consumer financial protection, or any new implementing regulations or revisions to existing regulations that may result from the establishment of this new authority, will have on our businesses.

Federal Securities Laws

        The shares of First Mariner common stock are registered with the SEC under Section 12(g) of the Exchange Act, as amended, and listed on the Over-The-Counter Bulletin Board ("OTCBB"). First Mariner is subject to information reporting requirements, proxy solicitation requirements, insider trading restrictions, and other requirements of the Exchange Act, including the requirements imposed under the federal Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. Among other things, loans to and other transactions with insiders are subject to restrictions and heightened disclosure, directors and certain committees of the Board must satisfy certain independence requirements, and First Mariner is generally required to comply with certain corporate governance requirements.

Economic Monetary Policies and Economic Controls

        We are affected by monetary policies of regulatory agencies, including the FRB, which regulates the national money supply in order to mitigate recessionary and inflationary pressures. Among the techniques available to the FRB are: engaging in open market transactions in U.S. Government securities; changing the discount rate on bank borrowings; changing reserve requirements against bank deposits; prohibiting the payment of interest on demand deposits; and imposing conditions on time and savings deposits. These techniques are used in varying combinations to influence the overall growth of bank loans, investments, and deposits. Their use may also affect interest rates charged on loans or paid on deposits. The effect of governmental policies on our earnings cannot be predicted. However, our earnings will be impacted by movement in interest rates, as discussed in Item 7A of Part II of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

ITEM 1A    RISK FACTORS

         We are subject to restrictions and conditions of a Cease and Desist Order issued by the FDIC and the Commissioner ("September Order"), and agreements with the FRB ("FRB Agreement" and "New FRB Agreement") (collectively, the "FRB Agreements") and have incurred and expect to continue to incur significant additional regulatory compliance expense in connection with these enforcement actions.

        The FDIC and the Commissioner have issued Cease and Desist Orders against the Bank and the Company. The Bank and the Company have also entered into the FRB Agreements. The September Order contains a number of significant directives, including higher capital requirements, requirements to reduce the level of our classified assets, operating restrictions, and restrictions on dividend payments by the Bank. These restrictions may impede our ability to operate our business. If we continue to fail to comply with the terms and conditions of the September Order or the FRB Agreements, the appropriate regulatory authority could take additional enforcement action against us, including the imposition of further operating restrictions, monetary penalties, or possibly place the Bank in receivership. We could also be directed to seek a merger partner. We have incurred and expect to continue to incur significant additional regulatory compliance expense in connection with the enforcement actions and we will incur ongoing expenses attributable to compliance with the terms of the enforcement actions. Although we do not expect it, it is possible regulatory compliance expenses related to the enforcement actions could have a material adverse impact on us in the future. In addition, our ability to independently make certain changes to our business is restricted by the terms of

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the September Order and the FRB Agreements, which could negatively impact the scope and flexibility of our business activities. While we believe that we will be able to take actions that will result in the September Order and the FRB Agreements being terminated in the future, we cannot guarantee that such actions will result in the termination of the September Order and/or the FRB Agreements. Further, the imposition of the September Order and the FRB Agreements may make it more difficult to attract and retain qualified employees. Specifically, the significant terms of the September Order are as follows:

        We have taken steps to increase capitalization through a stock offering in 2010 and through retention of earnings. We are attempting to improve earnings by reducing our nonperforming loans through workouts and other resolutions, including accelerated write-downs and sales of foreclosed assets. In addition, we are attempting to conservatively increase loan originations in order to improve our interest income. We have adopted a plan to improve enterprise-wide risk management and effectiveness of internal audit programs. To address our reliance on noncore funding, we have adopted a liquidity plan intended to reduce the Bank's reliance on noncore funding, wholesale funding sources, and high-cost rate-sensitive deposits. We have eliminated all brokered deposits.

        The significant terms of the FRB Agreements are as follows:

        We have adopted all plans required by the FRB Agreements and have not taken any of the prohibited actions. We have taken steps to increase capitalization (and therefore, our capital ratios) through a stock offering in 2010 and through retention of earnings.

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         As of December 31, 2012, the Bank's and the Company's capital levels were not sufficient to achieve compliance with the higher capital requirements we were to have met by June 30, 2010. The failure to meet and maintain these capital requirements could result in further action by our regulators.

        In the September Order, the FDIC and the Commissioner directed the Bank to raise its leverage and total risk-based capital ratios to 6.5% and 10%, respectively, by March 31, 2010 and to 7.5% and 11%, respectively, by June 30, 2010. We did not meet these requirements. We have been in regular communication with the staffs of the FDIC and the Commissioner regarding efforts to satisfy the higher capital requirements.

        First Mariner currently does not have any material amounts of capital available to invest in the Bank and any further increases to our allowance for loan losses and operating losses would negatively impact our capital levels and make it more difficult to achieve the capital levels directed by the FDIC and the Commissioner.

        Because we have not met all of the capital requirements set forth in the September Order within the prescribed timeframes, the FDIC and the Commissioner could take additional enforcement action against us, including the imposition of monetary penalties, as well as further operating restrictions. The FDIC or the Commissioner could direct us to seek a merger partner or possibly place the Bank in receivership. If the Bank is placed into receivership, the Company would cease operations and liquidate or seek bankruptcy protection. If the Company were to liquidate or seek bankruptcy protection, we do not believe that there would be assets available to holders of the capital stock of the Company.

        Additionally, in accordance with the requirements of the FRB Agreements, the Company submitted a written plan to maintain sufficient capital at the holding company level, such that First Mariner satisfies the FRB's minimum capital requirements. To satisfy these requirements, First Mariner's consolidated Tier I capital to average quarterly assets, Tier I capital to risk-weighted assets, and total capital to risk-weighted assets ratios must be at least 4.0%, 4.0%, and 8.0%, respectively. At December 31, 2012, those capital ratios were (0.5)%, (0.8)%, and (0.8)%, respectively, which were not in compliance with the minimum requirements. As further described above, the failure to meet all of the capital ratios could subject us to additional enforcement actions.

        The Bank currently is classified as "undercapitalized" under prompt corrective action regulations. If a state bank is classified as "undercapitalized," "significantly undercapitalized," or "critically undercapitalized," the FDIC would be required to take one or more prompt corrective actions. These actions would include, among other things, requiring sales of new securities to bolster capital, improvements in management, limits on interest rates paid, prohibitions on transactions with affiliates, termination of certain risky activities, and restrictions on compensation paid to executive officers. If a bank is classified as "critically undercapitalized," FDICIA requires the bank to be placed into conservatorship or receivership within 90 days, unless the FDIC determines that other action would better achieve the purposes of FDICIA regarding prompt corrective action with respect to undercapitalized banks.

         There is doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern.

        As discussed above, the Bank is subject to the September Order and the FRB Agreements, both of which require the Bank and the Company, respectively, to increase leverage and total risk-based capital ratios and, at December 31, 2012, the Company was below the required levels. Failure to increase the Company's capital ratios or further declines in the capital ratios expose the Company and the Bank to additional restrictions and regulatory actions, including potential receivership of the Bank. This uncertainty as to the Company's ability to meet existing or future regulatory requirements raises substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern. Unless the Company is able to raise sufficient levels of capital in the near future, we may be unable to meet the capital ratio requirements. The Company's audited financial statements were prepared under the assumption that we will continue

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our operations on a going concern basis, which contemplates the realization of assets and the discharge of liabilities in the normal course of business. The Company's financial statements do not include any adjustments that might be necessary if the Company is unable to continue as a going concern. If the Company cannot continue as a going concern, our shareholders will lose some or all of their investment in the Company. In addition, the Bank's customers, employees, vendors, correspondent institutions, and others with whom the Bank does business may react negatively to the doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern. This negative reaction may lead to heightened concerns regarding the Bank's financial condition that could result in a significant loss in deposits and customer relationships, key employees, vendor relationships and our ability to do business with correspondent institutions upon which we rely.

         We may need to raise additional capital through a share issuance in the future that would dilute your ownership if you do not, or are not permitted to, invest in the additional issuances.

        Should we need to raise additional capital in the future, we might seek to do so through one or more offerings of our common stock, securities convertible into common stock, or rights to acquire such securities of our common stock. Our ability to raise additional capital, if needed, will depend on conditions in the capital markets at that time and on our financial performance. There has been unprecedented volatility and disruption in the capital and credit markets in recent years, which has produced downward pressure on stock prices and credit availability for numerous issuers, including First Mariner. If current levels of market disruption and volatility continue or worsen, and if our stock price remains at its current level, we may be unable to raise additional capital, or we may be able to raise capital only at prices that would be unfavorable and dilutive to our shareholders. As further described above, if we cannot raise additional capital when needed, our results of operations and financial condition may be adversely affected, and our banking regulators may subject us to further regulatory enforcement action.

        Under our Articles of Incorporation, we have additional authorized shares of common stock that we can issue from time to time at the discretion of our board of directors, without further action by the shareholders, except where shareholder approval is required by law.

        The issuance of any additional shares of common stock or securities convertible into common stock could be substantially dilutive to shareholders of our common stock, particularly those who are not able to or choose not to participate in such additional issuances. Holders of our shares of common stock have no preemptive rights that entitle them to purchase their pro-rata share of any offering of shares of any class or series and, therefore, our shareholders may not be permitted to invest in any future issuances of our common stock and as a result could be diluted.

         We have taken actions, and may take additional actions, to help us meet immediate needs for capital, including reducing our assets and liabilities. The disposition of our assets and liabilities could hurt our long-term profitability.

        On December 14, 2009, First Mariner consummated the sale of its equity interests in Mariner Finance, LLC ("Mariner Finance") to MF Raven Holdings, Inc. for a purchase price of approximately $10.5 million. We retained a 5% ownership stake in the new Mariner Finance entity. We recorded a loss on the sale of $11.1 million during 2009. While this transaction provided First Mariner with $10.5 million in cash to invest in the Bank to increase the Bank's capital, we have and will realize significantly less income generated by Mariner Finance going forward.

        Additionally, we closed our downtown Baltimore branch and our Shrewsbury, Pennsylvania branch in 2010 in order to reduce overhead costs in support of our strategy of prudently reducing assets and liabilities. We also closed our Lutherville/Timonium branch during the first quarter of 2012 and we anticipate closing our Perry Hall, Odenton, and Columbia branches during the second quarter of 2013.

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Management expects to further evaluate its options for selling and/or closing additional branches as necessary. The Bank has not entered into any agreement to sell any branch office and no guarantee can be made that any such agreement will be entered into and if such agreement is entered into, whether such sale will be consummated. The approval of the FDIC and the Commissioner will also need to be obtained by any acquirer before purchasing any of our branch offices and there can be no guarantee that such approvals will be received. While branch sales and closures, if completed, will likely reduce our assets and liabilities and increase our Bank capital ratios, we expect that our net income in the future will be reduced as a result of the loss of income generated by these branches.

         The Company and the Bank are deemed to be in "troubled condition" within the meaning of federal statutes and regulations.

        The Company and Bank are deemed to be in "troubled condition" within the meaning of federal statutes and regulations. As a result, certain limitations and regulatory requirements apply to the Company and the Bank with respect to future changes to senior executive management and directors and the payment of, or the agreement to pay, certain severance payments to officers, directors, and employees. The Bank must also comply with specified recordkeeping requirements in connection with transactions involving certain securities contracts, commodities contracts, repurchase agreements, and certain other financial contracts.

         There may be a limited market for our common stock, which may adversely affect our stock price.

        Effective September 1, 2011, our stock was delisted from the NASDAQ Stock Market and is now quoted on the OTCBB. The market for our stock may become illiquid and our shares might not be actively traded in the future. If our common stock is not actively traded, you may not be able to sell all of your shares of common stock on short notice, and the sale of a large number of shares at one time could temporarily depress the market price. There may be a wide spread between the bid and ask price for our common stock. When there is a wide spread between the bid and ask price, the price at which you may be able to sell our common stock may be significantly lower than the price at which you could buy it at that time.

         Our mortgage-banking operations require a large volume of liquidity

        The mortgage-banking operation utilizes investors in the secondary market to purchase residential loans from the Bank once they have settled with the customer. The cash collected through this process is used to fund mortgage-banking and other Bank operations on a daily basis. To the extent that the funding of loan purchases is delayed or cancelled by investors, the Bank must fund the mortgage-banking operations through other means and may cause the Bank to hold increased levels of mortgage loans, thereby negatively affecting regulatory capital ratios as well as liquidity. Prolonged periods of stress in the secondary mortgage market may adversely impact the Bank's ability to fund its daily operations, including, but not limited to, mortgage-banking, commercial loan closings, and deposit withdrawals.

         Negative conditions in the general economy and financial services industry may limit our access to additional funding, adversely impact liquidity, impair our ability to fund operations, and jeopardize our financial viability.

        Liquidity is essential to our business. We rely on customer deposits, advances from the FHLB, and lines of credit at other financial institutions to fund our operations. Although we have historically been able to replace maturing deposits and advances if desired, no assurance can be given that we would be able to replace such funds in the future. Our access to funding sources in amounts adequate to finance our activities could be impaired by factors that affect us specifically or the financial services industry in general. Factors that could further detrimentally impact our access to liquidity sources include a

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decrease in the level of our business activity due to a market downturn, the financial condition of the FHLB, adverse regulatory action against us, and factors that are not specific to us, such as a severe disruption of the financial markets or negative views and expectations about the prospects for the financial services industry as a whole.

        The FHLB has reduced our line of credit, which stands at a total of $129.4 million at December 31, 2012 (with an outstanding balance of $117.0 million as of December 31, 2012). As part of the September Order, we are not allowed to purchase brokered deposits without first obtaining a regulatory waiver. We are also required to comply with restrictions on deposit rates that we may offer. These factors could significantly affect our ability to fund normal operations. At December 31, 2012, we maintained a significant amount of cash and cash equivalents such that management considered the Bank's liquidity level to be sufficient for the purposes of meeting the Bank's cash flow requirements.

        Our financial flexibility will be severely constrained and/or our cost of funds will increase if we are unable to maintain our access to funding or if financing necessary to accommodate future growth is not available at favorable interest rates. Finally, if we are required to rely more heavily on more expensive funding sources to support future growth, our revenues may not increase proportionately to cover our costs. In this case, our profitability would be adversely affected.

         The large amount of liquidity on our balance sheet negatively impacts our ability to increase income.

        Because the FRB Agreements, the September Order, and our reduced borrowing capacity have limited our access to certain sources of funding, we have maintained significantly more liquidity on our balance sheet then we otherwise would. At December 31, 2012, the Bank's cash and cash equivalents amounted to $185.8 million. The opportunity cost of maintaining liquidity at this level or at similar levels is substantial, because, at December 31, 2012, the cash and cash equivalents we have accumulated yielded substantially less than our other interest-earning assets. Until we raise capital to a level that satisfies the capital requirements of the FRB Agreements and the September Order, we will need to maintain significantly higher levels of liquidity which will, in turn, negatively impact our ability to increase income.

         Declines in asset values may result in impairment charges and adversely impact the value of our investments, financial performance, and capital. If we conclude that the decline in value of any of our investment securities is other than temporary, we are required to write down the value of that security.

        We maintain a securities portfolio that includes, but is not limited to, mortgage-backed securities and pooled trust preferred collateralized debt obligations. The market value of securities may be affected by factors other than the underlying performance of the issuer, such as adverse changes in business climate and lack of liquidity for the resale of certain securities. As of December 31, 2012, our entire securities portfolio was classified as AFS. Unrealized gains and losses in the estimated value of the AFS portfolio are "marked to market" and reflected as a separate item in stockholders' deficit as accumulated other comprehensive loss.

        We periodically, but not less than quarterly, evaluate securities and other assets for impairment indicators. We may be required to record impairment charges if securities suffer a decline in value that is considered other than temporary. Changes in the expected cash flows, credit enhancement levels, or credit ratings of our securities and/or prolonged price declines may result in our concluding in future periods that the impairment of our securities is other than temporary. If we determine that a significant impairment has occurred, we would be required to charge against earnings the credit-related portion of the other-than-temporary impairment ("OTTI"), which could have a material adverse effect on results of operations in the period in which the write-off occurs. During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010, we recognized $460,000, $838,000, and $1.2 million, respectively, in such charges.

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        The Bank is a member of the FHLB. A member of the FHLB system is required to purchase stock issued by the relevant FHLB bank based on how much it borrows from the FHLB and the quality of the collateral pledged to secure that borrowing. Included in our investment portfolio (classified as a restricted stock investment) as of December 31, 2012 is $7.0 million in capital stock of the FHLB. The FHLB is experiencing a potential capital shortfall and has, in the past, suspended its quarterly cash dividend, and could possibly require its members, including First Mariner, to make additional capital investments in the FHLB. There can be no guaranty that the FHLB will declare future dividends. In order to avail ourselves of correspondent banking services offered by the FHLB, we must remain a member of the FHLB. If the FHLB were to cease operations, or if we were required to write-off our investment in the FHLB, our business, financial condition, liquidity, capital, and results of operations may be materially and adversely affected.

        Accounting guidance indicates that an investor in FHLB stock should recognize impairment if it concludes that it is not probable that it will ultimately recover the par value of its shares. The decision of whether impairment exists is a matter of judgment that should reflect the investor's and FHLB's long-term performance, which includes factors such as its operating performance, the severity and duration of declines in the market value of its net assets related to its capital stock amount, its commitment to make payments required by law or regulation and the level of such payments in relation to its operating performance, the impact of legislation and regulatory changes on the FHLB, and accordingly, on the members of the FHLB, and its liquidity and funding position. After evaluating all of these considerations, we believe the par value of our FHLB stock will be recovered, but future evaluations of the above mentioned factors could result in the Bank recognizing an impairment charge.

        Management believes that several factors will affect the market values of our securities portfolio. These include, but are not limited to, changes in interest rates or expectations of changes, the degree of volatility in the securities markets, inflation rates or expectations of inflation and the slope of the interest rate yield curve (the yield curve refers to the differences between shorter-term and longer-term interest rates; a positively sloped yield curve means shorter-term rates are lower than longer-term rates). Also, the passage of time will affect the market values of our securities, in that the closer they are to maturing, the closer the market price should be to par value. These and other factors may impact specific categories of the portfolio differently, and management cannot predict the effect these factors may have on any specific category.

        There can be no assurance that future market performance of our securities portfolio will enable us to realize income from sales of securities. Stockholders' deficit will continue to reflect the unrealized gains and losses of these securities. There can be no assurance that the market value of our securities portfolio will not decline, causing a corresponding increase in our stockholders' deficit.

         We have elected to defer the payment of interest on our outstanding trust preferred securities issued by trust subsidiaries of our holding company and expect to continue to defer the payment of interest for the foreseeable future.

        Though we have deferred the payment of interest on the subordinated debentures related to the trust preferred securities, we continue to accrue interest expense related to the trust preferred securities. We recognized interest expense of $1.7 million, $1.6 million, and $1.9 million on the trust preferred securities during the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010, respectively.

        Under the terms of the subordinated debentures, our deferral of interest payments for up to 20 consecutive quarters (through the last quarter of 2013) does not constitute an event of default. During the deferral period, the deferred interest payments continue to accrue. To the extent applicable law permits interest on interest, the deferred interest payments also accrue interest at the rates specified in the corresponding indentures, compounded quarterly. All of the deferred interest and the compounded interest are due in full at the end of the applicable deferral period. If we fail to pay the deferred and

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compounded interest at the end of the deferral period, each trustee of the various trusts, or in most cases the holders of 25% of the outstanding principal amount of any issue of trust preferred securities, would have the right, after any applicable grace period, to declare an event of default. The occurrence of an event of default on the subordinated debentures would entitle the trustees and holders of the trust preferred securities to exercise various remedies, including demanding immediate payment in full of the entire outstanding principal amount of the subordinated debentures.

        Currently we have no cash available at First Mariner to resume the payment of interest on the subordinated debentures and the FRB Agreements prohibit First Mariner from making distributions on our trust preferred securities. Accordingly, our ability to resume the payment of interest on the subordinated debentures will depend on the Bank's ability to generate earnings and pay dividends to First Mariner. In addition, the terms of the September Order currently prohibit the payment of dividends by the Bank without regulatory approval. As a result, if by January 1, 2014 the September Order is not terminated, or if we do not achieve sufficient profitability for the Bank so that our regulators would grant approval for the Bank to pay dividends, we will be unable to resume the payment of interest on the subordinated debentures. Even if the Bank is able to resume paying dividends, we cannot be assured that the amount of dividends would be sufficient to pay the entire amount of interest due under the subordinated debentures at the end of the deferral period.

         We have had losses in recent periods.

        Although we realized net income of $16.1 million during 2012, for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, we incurred net losses of $30.2 million and $46.6 million, respectively. Our earnings in those periods were hurt by adverse economic conditions, including falling home prices, increasing foreclosures, and increasing unemployment in our markets, and our losses for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010 included $14.3 million and $17.8 million, respectively, of provisions for loan losses. Our ability to maintain profitability will depend on whether we are able to continue to reduce credit losses in the future, which will depend, in part, on whether economic conditions in our markets continue to improve. Management believes that our current business plan will be successful; however, our business plan is subject to current market conditions and its successful implementation is uncertain. There is no assurance that we will be successful in executing our business plan or that even if we successfully implement our business plan, we will be able to maintain our profitability. If we incur significant operating losses again in the future, our stock price may further decline. Even if we increase capital levels so as to meet the Bank and consolidated capital levels mandated by our regulators, if we incur further operating losses, we may in the future need to raise additional capital to maintain Bank and Company capital levels that meet or exceed the levels mandated by our regulators.

         Higher loan losses could require us to increase our allowance for loan losses through a charge to earnings.

        When we loan money we incur the risk that our borrowers do not repay their loans. We reserve for loan losses by establishing an allowance through a charge to earnings. The amount of this allowance is based on our assessment of loan losses inherent in our loan portfolio. The process for determining the amount of the allowance is critical to our financial results and condition. It requires subjective and complex judgments about the future, including forecasts of economic or market conditions that might impair the ability of our borrowers to repay their loans. We might underestimate the loan losses inherent in our loan portfolio and have loan losses in excess of the amount reserved. We might increase the allowance because of changing economic conditions. For example, in a rising interest rate environment, borrowers with adjustable-rate loans could see their payments increase. There may be a significant increase in the number of borrowers who are unable or unwilling to repay their loans, resulting in our charging off more loans and increasing our allowance. In addition, when real estate values decline, the potential severity of loss on a real estate-secured loan can increase significantly,

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especially in the case of loans with high combined LTV ratios. The decline in the national economy and the local economies of the areas in which the loans are concentrated could result in an increase in loan delinquencies, foreclosures, or repossessions, resulting in increased charge-off amounts and the need for additional loan loss allowances in future periods. In addition, our determination as to the amount of our allowance for loan losses is subject to review by regulatory authorities, as part of their examination process, which may result in the establishment of an additional allowance after a review of the information available at the time of their examination. Our allowance for loan losses amounted to $11.4 million, or 1.9% of total loans outstanding and 20.1% of nonperforming assets ("NPAs") ($56.5 million) and loans past-due 90 days or more and accruing ($222,000), as of December 31, 2012. Our allowance for loan losses at December 31, 2012 may not be sufficient to cover future loan losses. A large loss could deplete the allowance and require increased provisions to replenish the allowance, which would decrease our earnings. As of December 31, 2012, we had outstanding loan balances of approximately $541.8 million (88.8% of total loans) that were performing according to their original terms. However, the deterioration of one or more of these performing loans could result in a significant increase in our nonperforming loans and our provision for loan losses, which would negatively impact our results of operations.

         We have a high percentage of commercial real estate and real estate construction loans in relation to our total loans.

        At December 31, 2012, we had $263.7 million in mortgage loans secured by commercial real estate and $68.7 million in real estate construction loans, which included $49.9 million in commercial construction loans and $18.8 million in consumer construction loans. Commercial mortgage loans and total construction loans represented 43.2% and 11.3%, respectively, of our net loan portfolio. While commercial real estate and construction loans are generally more interest rate sensitive and carry higher yields than do residential mortgage loans, these types of loans generally expose a lender to greater risk of nonpayment and loss than single-family residential mortgage loans because repayment of the loans often depends on the successful operation of the property, the income stream of the borrowers, and, for construction loans, the accuracy of the estimate of the property's value at completion of construction and the estimated cost of construction. Such loans typically involve larger loan balances to single borrowers or groups of related borrowers compared to single-family residential mortgage loans.

        Current regulatory guidance suggests that institutions whose commercial real estate loans exceed certain percentages of capital should implement heightened risk management practices appropriate to their concentration risk and may be required to maintain higher capital ratios than institutions with lower concentrations in commercial real estate lending. Based on our commercial real estate concentration as of December 31, 2012, we may be subject to further supervisory analysis during future examinations. Although we continuously evaluate our concentration and risk management strategies, we cannot guarantee that any risk management practices we implement will be effective to prevent losses relating to our commercial real estate portfolio. Management cannot predict the extent to which this guidance will impact our operations or capital requirements.

         Mortgage-banking activities generate a significant portion of our noninterest income.

        A significant portion of our business involves originating residential mortgage loans through our mortgage division. Mortgage-banking revenue amounted to $49.7 million, $13.6, and $17.0 million for 2012, 2011, and 2010, respectively, which accounted for approximately 89.5%, 58.5%, and 60.1% of our noninterest income for those years, respectively. Real estate loan origination activity, including refinancing, is generally greater during periods of low or declining interest rates and favorable economic conditions. Adverse changes in market conditions and/or higher interest rates could have an adverse impact on our earnings through lower origination volumes.

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         We face interest rate risk on our loans held for sale ("LHFS") portfolio.

        We are exposed to interest rate risk in both our pipeline of mortgage originations (loans that have yet to close with the borrower) and in our warehouse loans (those loans that have closed with the borrower but have yet to be funded by investors). We have managed this interest rate risk through hedging strategies. We hedge a portion of our mortgage loan pipeline and warehouse utilizing derivatives in the form of forward sales of mortgage-backed securities. We expect that these derivative financial instruments will experience changes in fair value opposite to the change in fair value of the derivative loan commitments and our warehouse. However, the process of selling loans and the use of forward sales of mortgage-backed securities to hedge interest rate risk associated with customer interest rate lock commitments ("IRLC" or "IRLCs") involves greater risk than selling loans on an individual basis through forward delivery commitments. Hedging interest rate risk requires management to estimate the expected "fallout" (rate lock commitments with customers that do not complete the loan process). Additionally, the fair value of the hedge may not correlate precisely with the change in fair value of the rate lock commitments with the customer due to changes in market conditions, such as demand for loan products, or prices paid for differing types of loan products. Variances from management's estimates for customer fallout or market changes making the forward sale of mortgage-backed securities ineffective may result in higher volatility in our profits from selling mortgage loans originated for sale. We engage an experienced third party to assist us in managing our activities in hedging and marketing sales strategy.

         We face credit risk related to our residential mortgage production activities.

        Credit risk is the potential for financial loss resulting from the failure of a borrower or an institution to honor its contractual obligations to us. We manage mortgage credit risk principally by selling substantially all of the mortgage loans that we produce, limiting credit recourse to the Bank in those transactions, and by retaining high credit quality mortgages in our loan portfolio. We also limit our risk of loss on mortgage loan sales by establishing limits on activity to any one investor and by entering into contractual relationships with only those financial institutions that are approved by our secondary marketing committee. The period of time between closing on a loan commitment with the borrower and funding by the investor ranges from between 15 and 90 days.

         Secondary mortgage market conditions could have a material impact on our financial condition and results of operations.

        In addition to being affected by interest rates, the secondary mortgage markets are also subject to investor demand for residential mortgage loans. These conditions may fluctuate or even worsen in the future. In light of current conditions, there is a higher risk to retaining a larger portion of mortgage loans than we would in other environments until they are sold to investors. As a result, a prolonged period of secondary market illiquidity may reduce our loan production volumes and could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operation.

         We face risk related to covenants in our loan sales agreements with investors.

        Our sales agreements with investors who purchase our loans generally contain covenants which may require us to repurchase loans under certain provisions, including delinquencies. Any loans we are required to repurchase may be considered impaired loans, with the potential for charge-offs and/or loss provision charges. The addition of these repurchased loans to our portfolio could adversely affect our earnings and asset quality ratios.

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        There may be certain loans in our portfolio that were originated for sale, but for various reasons, are unable to be sold. These loans are transferred to our loan portfolio at fair value, with any deterioration in value charged against mortgage-banking revenue. Any deterioration in value of the loan during the period held in the portfolio is charged to the allowance.

         Increased and/or special FDIC assessments will hurt our earnings.

        Beginning in late 2008, the economic environment caused higher levels of bank failures, which dramatically increased FDIC resolution costs and led to a significant reduction in the DIF. As a result, the FDIC significantly increased the initial base assessment rates paid by financial institutions for deposit insurance. The increase in the base assessment rate has increased our deposit insurance costs and negatively impacted our earnings. See "Regulation of the Bank—Insurance of Deposit Accounts" under "Supervision and Regulation" in Item 1 above for more information on FDIC assessments.

        The FDIC may impose additional emergency special assessments if necessary to maintain public confidence in federal deposit insurance or as a result of deterioration in the DIF reserve ratio due to institution failures. Any emergency special assessment imposed by the FDIC will negatively impact our earnings.

         We currently hold a significant amount of bank owned life insurance ("BOLI").

        We currently hold a significant amount of BOLI on key employees and executives that have cash surrender values of $37.7 million as of December 31, 2012. The eventual repayment of the cash surrender value is subject to the ability of various insurance companies to pay benefits in the event of the death of an insured employee or return the cash surrender value to us in the event of our need for liquidity. We continuously monitor the financial strength of the various insurance companies with whom we carry policies. However, there is no assurance that one or more of these companies will not experience a decline in financial strength, which could impair its ability to pay benefits or return our cash surrender value. Additionally, should we need to liquidate these policies for liquidity needs, we would be subject to taxation on the increase in cash surrender value as well as penalties for early termination of the insurance contracts. These events would have a negative impact on our earnings.

         Fluctuating interest rates may adversely affect our profitability.

        Our profitability is dependent to a large extent upon net interest income, which is the difference, or spread, between the interest earned on loans, securities, and other interest-earning assets and the interest paid on deposits, borrowings, and other interest-bearing liabilities. Because of the differences in maturities and repricing characteristics of our interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities, changes in interest rates do not produce equivalent changes in interest income earned on interest-earning assets and interest paid on interest-bearing liabilities. We principally manage interest rate risk by managing our volume and mix of our earning assets and funding liabilities. In a rapidly changing interest rate environment, we may not be able to manage this risk effectively. Changes in interest rates can also affect: (1) our ability to originate and/or sell loans; (2) the value of our interest-earning assets, which would negatively impact shareholders' deficit and our ability to realize gains from the sale of such assets; (3) our ability to obtain and retain deposits in competition with other available investment alternatives; and (4) the ability of our borrowers to repay adjustable- or variable-rate loans. Interest rates are highly sensitive to many factors, including government monetary policies, domestic and international economic and political conditions, and other factors beyond our control. If we are unable to manage interest rate risk effectively, our business, financial condition, and results of operations could be materially adversely affected.

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         Our litigation related costs may continue to increase.

        The Bank is subject to a variety of legal proceedings that have arisen in the ordinary course of the Bank's business. In the current economic environment the Bank's involvement in litigation has increased, primarily as a result of defaulted borrowers asserting claims in order to defeat or delay foreclosure proceedings. The Bank believes that it has meritorious defenses in legal actions where it has been named as a defendant and is vigorously defending these suits. Although management, based on discussion with litigation counsel, believes that such proceedings will not have a material adverse effect on the financial condition or operations of the Bank, there can be no assurance that a resolution of any such legal matters will not result in significant liability to the Bank nor have a material adverse impact on its financial condition and results of operations or the Bank's ability to meet applicable regulatory requirements. The expenses of pending legal proceedings will adversely affect the Bank's results of operations until they are resolved. There can be no assurance that the Bank's loan workout and other activities will not expose the Bank to additional legal actions, including lender liability or environmental claims.

         The soundness of other financial institutions could adversely affect us.

        Our ability to engage in routine funding transactions could be adversely affected by the actions and commercial soundness of other financial institutions. Financial services institutions are interrelated as a result of trading, clearing, counterparty, or other relationships. As a result, defaults by, or even rumors or questions about, one or more financial services institutions, or the financial services industry in general, have led to market-wide liquidity problems and could lead to losses or defaults by us or by other institutions. Many of these transactions expose us to credit risk in the event of default of our counterparty or client. In addition, our credit risk may be exacerbated when the value of the collateral held by us cannot be realized upon liquidation or is liquidated at prices not sufficient to recover the full amount of the financial instrument exposure. There is no assurance that any such losses would not materially and adversely affect our results of operations.

         We operate in a highly regulated environment and may be adversely affected by changes in federal and state laws and regulations.

        We are subject to extensive regulation, supervision, and examination by federal and state banking authorities. Any change in applicable regulations or laws could have a substantial impact on us and our operations. Additional legislation and regulations that could significantly affect our powers, authority, and operations may be enacted or adopted in the future, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. Legislation related to bankruptcy rules and courts and/or foreclosure proceedings to the benefit of borrowers and the detriment of lenders could be enacted by either Congress or the state of Maryland in the future. Any such laws may further restrict our collection efforts on residential mortgage loans.

        On July 21, 2010, the President signed into law the Dodd-Frank Act, which contains various provisions designed to enhance the regulation of depository institutions and prevent the recurrence of a financial crisis such as occurred in 2008-2009. These include provisions for, among other things, strengthening holding company capital requirements. Also included is the creation of a new federal agency to administer and enforce consumer and fair lending laws, a function that is now performed by the depository institution regulators. The full impact of the Dodd-Frank Act on our business and operations may not be known for years until full and final regulations implementing the statute are written and adopted. The Dodd-Frank Act may have a material impact on our operations, particularly through increased compliance costs and regulatory burden, increased interest expense, and higher capital standards. If implemented, the Basel III Proposal also may have a material impact on our operations through higher capital standards. See additional information on the Dodd-Frank Act and the Basel III Proposal under "Supervision and Regulation" in Item 1 above.

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         We face significant operational risks.

        We operate in many different businesses in diverse markets and rely on the ability of our employees and systems to process a high number of transactions. Operational risk is the risk of loss resulting from our operations, including, but not limited to, the risk of fraud by employees or persons outside of the Company and the Bank, the execution of unauthorized transactions by employees, errors relating to transaction processing and technology, catastrophic failures resulting from terrorist acts or natural disasters, breaches of the internal control system, compliance requirements, and business continuation and disaster recovery. This risk of loss also includes the potential legal actions that could arise as a result of an operational deficiency or as a result of noncompliance with applicable regulatory standards, adverse business decisions or their implementation, and customer attrition due to potential negative publicity. We maintain a system of internal controls to mitigate against such occurrences and maintain insurance coverage for such risks that are insurable, but should such an event occur that results in a breakdown in the internal control system, improper operation of systems, or improper employee actions, we could suffer financial loss, face regulatory action, and suffer damage to our reputation.

        Additionally, the financial services industry is continually undergoing rapid technological change with frequent introductions of new technology-driven products and services. The effective use of technology increases efficiency and enables financial institutions to better serve customers and reduce costs. Our future success depends, in part, upon our ability to address the needs of our customers by using technology to provide products and services that will satisfy customer demands, as well as to create additional efficiencies in our operations. Many of our competitors have substantially greater resources to invest in technological improvements. We may not be able to effectively implement new technology-driven products and services or be successful in marketing these products and services to our customers. Failure to successfully keep pace with technological change affecting the financial services industry could have a material adverse impact on our business and, in turn, our financial condition and results of operations.

        Severe weather, natural disasters, acts of war or terrorism, and other adverse external events could have a significant impact on our ability to conduct business. Such events could affect the stability of our deposit base, impair the ability of borrowers to repay outstanding loans, impair the value of collateral securing loans, cause significant property damage, result in loss of revenue, and/or cause us to incur additional expenses. Operations in several of our markets could be disrupted by both the evacuation of large portions of the population as well as damage and/or lack of access to our banking and operation facilities. Although we have not experienced such an occurrence to date, severe weather or natural disasters, acts of war or terrorism, or other adverse external events may occur in the future. Although management has established disaster recovery policies and procedures, the occurrence of any such event could have a material adverse effect on our business, which, in turn, could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

         If we do not maintain the privacy and security of customer-related information, we could damage our reputation, incur substantial additional costs, and become subject to litigation.

        We receive, retain, and transmit certain personal information about our customers. In addition, our online operations rely on the secure transmission of confidential information over public networks. A compromise of our physical and network security systems through a cyber-security attack, including those of our business partners, may threaten our customers' personal information being obtained by unauthorized persons, which could adversely affect our reputation, as well as negatively impact our business, results of operations, financial position, and liquidity, and could result in the imposition of penalties or litigation against us. In addition, a cyber-security breach could require that we expend significant additional resources related to the security of information systems which could result in a disruption of our operations.

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         The loss of senior management could hurt our operations.

        We rely heavily on our senior officer team. The loss of any of our senior officers could have an adverse effect on us because we have been operating with as small a staff as possible to reduce expenses. In 2011, the then Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer ("CEO") of the Company and the Bank retired and the then President of the Bank resigned to pursue another opportunity. Such individuals have not been replaced, and their duties have been assumed by other officers. Moreover, as a result of our capital levels and the September Order, we are subject to regulations that limit our flexibility in offering compensation arrangements that would better enable us to retain our senior officers, and we may find it difficult to attract replacement officers in the event we were to lose existing senior officers. In addition, as a community bank, we have fewer management-level personnel who are in a position to assume the responsibilities of our senior officers.

         A continuation or worsening of economic conditions could result in increases in the Company's level of nonperforming loans and/or reduced demand for our products and services, which would lead to lower revenue, higher loan losses, and lower earnings.

        The Company's business activities and earnings are affected by general business conditions in the United States and in the Company's primary market area. These conditions include the level of short-term and long-term interest rates, inflation, deflation, unemployment levels, real estate values, monetary supply, consumer confidence and spending, fluctuations in both debt and equity capital markets, and the strength of the economy in the United States generally and in the Company's market area in particular. The national economy experienced a recession from December 2007 to June 2009, with rising unemployment levels, declines in real estate values and an erosion in consumer confidence. The economic recovery since the end of the recession has been weak due to sovereign debt concerns in Europe, lingering high unemployment, declines in housing prices in the United States, and other factors. Dramatic declines in the U.S. housing market over the past few years, with decreasing home prices and increasing foreclosures, have negatively affected the credit performance of mortgage loans and other loans and investments tied to the residential housing market and have resulted in significant write-downs of asset values by many financial institutions. Our local economy has experienced similar economic conditions, although the deterioration may not be as severe in some respects as the national economy overall. A prolonged or more severe economic downturn, continued elevated levels of unemployment, declines in the values of real estate, or other events that affect household and/or corporate incomes could impair the ability of borrowers to repay their loans in accordance with their terms. Nearly all of the Company's loans are secured by real estate, and a majority of our loans are made to individuals and businesses in the localities in which we have offices. As a result of this concentration, a prolonged or more severe downturn in the local economy could result in significant increases in nonperforming loans, which would negatively affect the Company's interest income and result in higher provisions for loan losses, which would hurt the Company's earnings. The economic downturn could also result in reduced demand for credit, which would hurt the Company's revenues. Housing prices and sales activity have stabilized and begun to increase in certain sectors of our marketplace, but it is too early to tell if this is a temporary phenomenon or the beginning of a housing recovery.

         We are a community bank and our ability to maintain our reputation is critical to the success of our business and the failure to do so may materially adversely affect our performance.

        We are a community bank, and our reputation is one of the most valuable components of our business. As such, we strive to conduct our business in a manner that enhances our reputation. This is done, in part, by recruiting, hiring, and retaining employees who share our core values of being an integral part of the communities we serve, delivering superior service to our customers and caring about our customers and associates. If our reputation is negatively affected, by the actions of our

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employees or otherwise, our business and, therefore, our operating results may be materially adversely affected.

         Our ability to pay cash dividends is limited.

        Holders of shares of our common stock are entitled to dividends if declared by our board of directors out of funds legally available for that purpose. In general, future dividend policy is subject to the discretion of the board of directors and will depend upon our future earnings, capital requirements, regulatory constraints, and our financial condition, as well as that of the Bank.

        Although the board of directors has declared cash dividends in the past, it has discontinued such payments to conserve cash and capital resources and does not intend to declare cash dividends until current earnings are sufficient to generate adequate internal capital to support growth. Moreover, the FRB Agreements prohibit the payment of dividends to our stockholders. Our future ability to pay dividends will be largely dependent upon the receipt of dividends from the Bank. Both federal and state laws impose restrictions on the ability of the Bank to pay dividends. Federal law prohibits the payment of a dividend by an insured depository institution if the depository institution is considered "undercapitalized" or if the payment of the dividend would make the institution "undercapitalized." For a Maryland commercial bank, dividends may be paid out of undivided profits or, with the prior approval of the Commissioner, from surplus in excess of 100% of required capital stock. If, however, the surplus of a Maryland bank is less than 100% of its required capital stock, then cash dividends may not be paid in excess of 90% of net earnings.

        Our ability to pay dividends is further subject to our ability to make payments of interest under junior subordinated debentures due through 2035 held by our statutory trusts Mariner Capital Trust ("MCT") II, III, IV, V, VI, and VII (collectively, the "Trusts"). These payments are necessary to fund the distributions that the Trusts each must pay to holders of its trust preferred securities (collectively, the "Trust Preferred Securities"). We have elected to defer interest payments on the debentures. This deferment is permitted by the terms of the debentures and does not constitute an event of default thereunder. Interest on the debentures and dividends on the related Trust Preferred Securities continue to accrue and will have to be paid in full prior to the expiration of the deferral period, which may not exceed 20 consecutive quarters and expires with the last quarter of 2013, and prior to the declaration of any dividends. Under the terms of the Trust Preferred Securities, we are not permitted to pay dividends to our stockholders while we are deferring interest payments on the debentures.

        Finally, First Mariner and the Bank have entered into regulatory agreements with our regulators which, among other things, require us to seek prior regulatory approval before the Bank pays dividends to First Mariner and/or before First Mariner pays dividends on its common stock.

         Contracts with our officers may discourage a takeover or adversely affect our takeover value.

        We have entered into change in control agreements with certain senior officers. These agreements provide for a payment to each officer of a multiple of his or her salary and bonus upon the occurrence of either a change in control that results in the loss of employment or a significant change in his or her employment. Thus, we may be required to make significant payments in the event that the rights under these agreements are triggered by a change in control. As a result, these contracts may discourage a takeover or adversely affect the consideration payable to stockholders in the event of a takeover. Notwithstanding the foregoing, because the Company and the Bank are considered to be in "troubled condition" for regulatory purposes, payments made under any change of control agreement are subject to certain regulatory restrictions and limitations. The Company and the Bank must apply for and receive the approval of the FRB and the FDIC, respectively, in order to make payments under these agreements.

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         Our Articles and Bylaws and Maryland law may discourage a corporate takeover.

        Our Articles and Amended and Restated Bylaws ("Bylaws") contain certain provisions designed to enhance the ability of the board of directors to deal with attempts to acquire control of the Company. These provisions provide for the classification of our board of directors into three classes; directors of each class serve for staggered three year periods. The Articles also provide for supermajority voting provisions for the approval of certain business combinations.

        Maryland law also contains anti-takeover provisions that apply to us. The Maryland Business Combination Act generally prohibits, subject to certain limited exceptions, corporations from being involved in any "business combination" (defined as a variety of transactions, including a merger, consolidation, share exchange, asset transfer, or issuance or reclassification of equity securities) with any "interested shareholder" for a period of five years following the most recent date on which the interested shareholder became an interested shareholder. An interested shareholder is defined generally as a person who is the beneficial owner of 10% or more of the voting power of the outstanding voting stock of the corporation after the date on which the corporation had 100 or more beneficial owners of its stock or who is an affiliate or associate of the corporation and was the beneficial owner, directly or indirectly, of 10% or more of the voting power of the then outstanding stock of the corporation at any time within the two-year period immediately prior to the date in question and after the date on which the corporation had 100 or more beneficial owners of its stock.

        Although these provisions do not preclude a takeover, they may have the effect of discouraging a future takeover attempt which would not be approved by our board of directors, but pursuant to which stockholders might receive a substantial premium for their shares over then-current market prices. As a result, stockholders who might desire to participate in such a transaction might not have the opportunity to do so. Such provisions will also render the removal of our board of directors and of management more difficult and, therefore, may serve to perpetuate current management. Further, such provisions could potentially adversely affect the market price of our common stock.

ITEM 2    PROPERTIES

        We lease our executive offices located at 1501 South Clinton Street, Baltimore, Maryland. This location also houses our headquarters branch office. We occupy approximately 42,000 square feet at this location.

        We own our former headquarters branch office (now a drive-thru satellite office) located at 3301 Boston Street, Baltimore, Maryland. This location houses drive-up banking facilities as well as other administration offices.

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        We operate retail bank branches at the following locations:*

Maryland:        

Annapolis(2)

 

Dundalk(2)

 

Perry Hall(1)(5)
161 A Jennifer Road   7860 Wise Avenue   8843 Belair Road
Annapolis, MD 21401   Baltimore, MD 21222   Perry Hall, MD 21236

Arbutus(2)

 

Easton(1)

 

Pikesville(1)
3720 Washington Blvd., Suite 100   8662 Alicia Drive   1013 Reisterstown Road
Baltimore, MD 21227   Easton, MD 21601   Baltimore, MD 21208

Bel Air(3)

 

Ellicott City(3)

 

Pikesville Drive-Thru(2)(4)
12 A Bel Air South Parkway   10065 Baltimore National Pike   1100 Reisterstown Road
Bel Air, MD 21015   Ellicott City, MD 21042   Baltimore, MD 21208

Canton Drive-Thru(1)(4)

 

Glen Burnie(3)

 

Severna Park(2)
3301 Boston Street   305 South Crain Highway   366A Gov Ritchie Highway
Baltimore, MD 21224   Glen Burnie, MD 21061   Severna Park, MD 21146

Canton Tower/Headquarters(2)

 

Hickory(3)

 

Westminster(1)
1501 South Clinton Street   1403 Conowingo Road   1010 Baltimore Boulevard
Baltimore, MD 21224   Bel Air, MD 21014   Westminster, MD 21157

Carroll Island(2)

 

Loch Raven(1)

 

White Marsh(1)
176 Carroll Island Road   1641 East Joppa Road   10101 Philadelphia Road
Baltimore, MD 21220   Baltimore, MD 21286   White Marsh, MD 21237

Cockeysville(3)

 

Odenton(1)(5)

 

Woodlawn(3)
9840 York Road   1600 Annapolis Road   7007 Security Boulevard
Cockeysville, MD 21030   Odenton, MD 21113   Baltimore, MD 21244

Columbia(2)(5)

 

Owings Mills(1)

 

 
8835 Centre Park Drive, Suite 100   4800 Painters Mill Road    
Columbia, MD 21045   Owings Mills, MD 21117    

*
For our branch hours and remote ATM locations, please refer to our website at www.1stmarinerbank.com.
(1)
Company owns branch
(2)
Company leases branch
(3)
Company owns branch, but leases related land
(4)
Office is a satellite branch
(5)
Closing in 2013

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        We operate mortgage offices at the following locations:

Maryland:        

Annapolis(2)

 

Ellicott City(3)

 

White Marsh(1)
2661 Riva Road   10065 Baltimore National Pike   10101 Philadelphia Road
Annapolis, MD 21401   Ellicott City, MD 21042   White Marsh, MD 21237

Bel Air(2)

 

Rockville(2)

 

Delaware:
303 South Main Street   15722 Crabbs Branch Way    
Bel Air, MD 21014   Rockville, MD 20855   Seaford(2)
        22350 Sussex Highway
Bethesda(2)   Salisbury(2)   Seaford, DE 19973
6903 Rockledge Dr., Ste 525   601 E. Naylor Mill Rd., Ste B    
Bethesda, MD 20817   Salisbury, MD 21804   Virginia:

Canton/Headquarters(1)

 

Severna Park(2)

 

Alexandria(2)
3301 Boston Street   838 Ritchie Highway   211 North Patrick Street
Baltimore, MD 21224   Severna Park, MD 21146   Alexandria, VA 22314

Easton(1)

 

Solomon's Island(2)

 

Landsdowne(2)
8662 Alicia Drive   13940 H. G. Trueman Road   19301 Winmeade Drive Ste 200
Easton, MD 21601   Solomon's Island, MD 20688   Landsdowne, VA 20176

Eldersburg(2)

 

Waldorf(2)

 

North Carolina:
1912 Liberty Rd., Bldg II, Ste 3   3050 Crain Highway    
Sykesville, MD 21784   Waldorf, MD 20601   VA Mortgage(2)
        203 Wolf Creek Professional Center
        Havelock, NC 28532

(1)
Company owns office
(2)
Company leases office
(3)
Company owns office, but leases related land

        The Bank's branches range in total size from 2,000 to 4,000 square feet and mortgage offices generally range in size from 1,200 to 2,000 square feet. We believe that all of our locations are suitable and adequate to conduct business and support growth in customer and transaction volume.

        For more information on our lease commitments and costs, see Note 6 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, included in Item 8 of Part II of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

ITEM 3    LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

        We are party to certain legal actions that are routine and incidental to our business. In management's opinion, the outcome of these matters, individually or in the aggregate, will not have a material effect on our results of operations or financial position.

ITEM 4    MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

        Not Applicable.

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PART II

ITEM 5    MARKET FOR THE REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
                  AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

Market for Common Stock

        First Mariner's common stock is quoted on the OTCBB under the symbol "FMAR." Currently, there are approximately 3,900 holders of record of First Mariner common stock. On March 15, 2013, the closing sales price of First Mariner common stock was $0.84 per share.

        The table below sets forth for the periods indicated the low and high market prices of the common stock.

 
  Low   High  

2012 Quarter ended:

             

Fourth quarter

  $ 0.46   $ 1.11  

Third quarter

    0.43     0.64  

Second quarter

    0.38     0.70  

First quarter

    0.14     0.61  

2011 Quarter ended:

             

Fourth quarter

  $ 0.05   $ 0.30  

Third quarter

    0.16     0.74  

Second quarter

    0.23     0.81  

First quarter

    0.39     1.05  

        We do not pay cash dividends on our shares of common stock. Currently, we have no plans to pay cash dividends on our common stock. For a discussion of the limitations on First Mariner's ability to pay dividends, see Item 1 of Part I of this Annual Report on Form 10-K under the heading "Supervision and Regulation."

Equity Compensation Plan Information

        The following table sets forth the securities authorized for issuance under the Company's equity compensation plans as of December 31, 2012:

Plan Category
  (A)
Number of securities
to be issued upon
exercise of outstanding
options, warrants, and
rights
  (B)
Weighted-average
exercise price of
oustanding options,
warrants, and rights
  (C)
Number of securities remaining
available for future issuance
under equity compensation
plans (excluding securities
reflected in column (A))
 

Equity compensation plans approved by security holders

    589,478   $ 6.12     1,653,416  

Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders

             
               

Total

    589,478   $ 6.12     1,653,416  
               

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

        None.

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ITEM 6    SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

 
  2012   2011   2010   2009   2008  
 
  (dollars in thousands, except per share data)
 

Consolidated Statements of Operations Data:

                               

Net interest income

  $ 31,946   $ 28,182   $ 29,838   $ 27,112   $ 28,440  

Provision for loan losses

    2,572     14,330     17,790     11,660     10,856  

Noninterest income

    55,486     23,249     28,192     28,271     17,227  

Noninterest expense

    68,580     67,951     67,498     67,834     65,252  

Income tax expense (benefit)

    163     (606 )   19,131     (10,887 )   (13,632 )

(Loss) income from discontinued operations(1)

            (200 )   (9,060 )   1,721  

Net income (loss)

    16,117     (30,244 )   (46,589 )   (22,284 )   (15,088 )

Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition Data:

                               

Total assets

  $ 1,377,529   $ 1,179,017   $ 1,309,637   $ 1,384,551   $ 1,307,497  

Loans receivable, net

    610,396     701,751     811,687     890,951     978,696  

Allowance for loan losses

    11,434     13,801     14,115     11,639     16,777  

Deposits

    1,186,830     1,014,760     1,121,889     1,146,504     950,233  

Long-term borrowings

    73,515     73,698     33,888     95,672     177,868  

Junior subordinated deferrable interest debentures

    52,068     52,068     52,068     73,724     73,724  

Stockholders' (deficit) equity

    (8,372 )   (25,412 )   3,746     26,987     46,015  

Per Share Data:

                               

Number of shares of common stock outstanding at year end

    18,860,482     18,860,482     18,050,117     6,452,631     6,452,631  

Net income (loss) per common share—Basic and Diluted

  $ 0.85   $ (1.62 ) $ (3.15 ) $ (3.45 ) $ (2.36 )

Performance and Capital Ratios:

                               

Return on average assets

    1.31 %   (2.50 )%   (3.43 )%   (1.69 )%   (1.16 )%

Return on average equity

    NM (2)   NM (2)   NM (2)   (53.81 )%   (24.37 )%

Net interest margin

    3.14 %   3.03 %   2.91 %   2.43 %   2.74 %

Average equity to average assets

    (1.27 )%   (0.91 )%   2.86 %   3.15 %   4.78 %

Leverage ratio (Bank)

    3.8 %   3.0 %   4.7 %   6.2 %   5.8 %

Tier I capital to risk-weighted assets (Bank)

    6.1 %   4.2 %   6.8 %   7.9 %   6.8 %

Total capital to risk-weighted assets (Bank)

    7.3 %   5.5 %   8.0 %   9.1 %   8.8 %

Asset Quality Ratios:

                               

Nonperforming assets to total assets

    4.10 %   5.25 %   5.48 %   4.15 %   4.42 %

Allowance for loan losses at year-end to:

                               

Total loans, net of unearned income

    1.87 %   1.97 %   1.74 %   1.31 %   1.71 %

Nonperforming assets and 90 day past-due loans

    20.15 %   20.23 %   18.89 %   17.46 %   24.88 %

Net charge-offs to average total loans, net of unearned income

    0.75 %   1.94 %   1.80 %   1.37 %   1.35 %

(1)
Reflects (loss) income from discontinued operations of Mariner Finance.
(2)
NM=not meaningful

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ITEM 7    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
                  OPERATIONS

The Company

        First Mariner Bancorp is a bank holding company incorporated under the laws of Maryland and registered under the federal Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended. First Mariner Bancorp's business is conducted primarily through its wholly-owned subsidiary, First Mariner Bank. The Company had over 590 employees (approximately 580 full-time equivalent employees) as of December 31, 2012.

        The Bank, with assets exceeding $1.3 billion as of December 31, 2012, is engaged in the general commercial banking business, with particular attention and emphasis on the needs of individuals and small to mid-sized businesses, and delivers a wide range of financial products and services that are offered by many larger competitors. The Bank's primary market area for its core banking operations, which consist of traditional commercial and consumer lending, as well as retail and commercial deposit operations, is central Maryland and portions of Maryland's eastern shore. Products and services of the Bank include traditional deposit products, a variety of consumer and commercial loans, residential and commercial mortgage and construction loans, wire transfer services, nondeposit investment products, and Internet banking and similar services. Most importantly, the Bank provides customers with access to local Bank officers who are empowered to act with flexibility to meet customers' needs in an effort to foster and develop long-term loan and deposit relationships. The Bank is an independent community bank and its deposits are insured by the FDIC.

        First Mariner Mortgage, a division of the Bank, engages in mortgage-banking activities, providing mortgages and associated products to customers and selling most of those mortgages into the secondary market. First Mariner Mortgage had assets of $404.3 million and $183.0 million as of December 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively, and generated revenue of $60.0 million and $17.4 million, respectively, for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011. It recognized income before income taxes of $37.8 million and $6.3 million during 2012 and 2011, respectively. Origination volume during 2012 was $2.5 billion compared to $1.1 billion in 2011. During 2012, 42% of the originations were made in the state of Maryland, 17% in the immediately surrounding states and the District of Columbia, and the remaining 41% in other states throughout the country. First Mariner Mortgage has offices in Maryland, Delaware, Virginia, and North Carolina. See Note 19 to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8 of Part II of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for more detailed information on the results of our mortgage-banking operations.

Critical Accounting Policies

        The Company's consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP") and follow general practices within the industry in which it operates. Application of these principles requires management to make estimates, assumptions, and judgments that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. These estimates, assumptions, and judgments are based on information available as of the date of the consolidated financial statements; accordingly, as this information changes, the consolidated financial statements could reflect different estimates, assumptions, and judgments. Certain policies inherently have a greater reliance on the use of estimates, assumptions, and judgments and, as such, have a greater possibility of producing results that could be materially different than originally reported. Estimates, assumptions, and judgments are necessary when assets and liabilities are required to be recorded at fair value, when a decline in the value of an asset not carried on the consolidated financial statements at fair value warrants an impairment write-down or valuation reserve to be established, or when an asset or liability needs to be recorded contingent upon a future event. Carrying assets and liabilities at fair value inherently results in more financial statement volatility. When applying accounting policies in such areas that are subjective in nature, management

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must use its best judgment to arrive at the carrying value of certain assets and liabilities. Below is a discussion of our critical accounting policies.

Securities

        We designate securities into one of three categories at the time of purchase. Debt securities that we have the intent and ability to hold to maturity are classified as held to maturity and recorded at amortized cost. Debt and equity securities are classified as trading if bought and held principally for the purpose of sale in the near term. Trading securities are reported at estimated fair value, with unrealized gains and losses included in earnings. Debt securities not classified as held to maturity and debt and equity securities not classified as trading securities are considered available for sale and are reported at estimated fair value, with unrealized gains and losses reported as a separate component of stockholders' deficit, net of tax effects, in accumulated other comprehensive loss.

        AFS securities are evaluated periodically to determine whether a decline in their value is other than temporary. The term "other than temporary" is not intended to indicate a permanent decline in value. Rather, it means that the prospects for near term recovery of value are not necessarily favorable, or that there is a lack of evidence to support fair values equal to, or greater than, the carrying value of the security.

        The initial indications of OTTI for both debt and equity securities are a decline in the market value below the amount recorded for a security and the severity and duration of the decline. In determining whether an impairment is other than temporary, we consider the length of time and the extent to which the market value has been below cost, recent events specific to the issuer, including investment downgrades by rating agencies and economic conditions of its industry, our intent to sell the security, and if it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis. For marketable equity securities, we also consider the issuer's financial condition, capital strength, and near-term prospects. For debt securities and for perpetual preferred securities that are treated as debt securities for the purpose of OTTI analysis, we also consider the cause of the price decline (general level of interest rates and industry- and issuer-specific factors), the issuer's financial condition, near-term prospects and current ability to make future payments in a timely manner, the issuer's ability to service debt, and any change in agencies' ratings at evaluation date from acquisition date and any likely imminent action. Once a decline in value is determined to be other than temporary, the security is segmented into credit- and noncredit-related components. Any impairment adjustment due to identified credit-related components is recorded as an adjustment to current period earnings, while noncredit-related fair value adjustments are recorded through accumulated other comprehensive loss. In situations where we intend to sell or it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell the security, the entire OTTI loss is recognized in earnings.

        Gains or losses on the sales of securities are calculated using a specific-identification basis and are determined on a trade-date basis. Premiums and discounts on securities are amortized (accreted) over the term of the security using methods that approximate the interest method. Gains and losses on trading securities are recognized regularly in income as the fair value of those securities changes.

Loans

Allowance for loan losses

        Our allowance for loan losses represents an estimated amount that, in management's judgment, will be adequate to absorb probable incurred losses on existing loans. Management uses a disciplined process and methodology to establish the allowance for losses each quarter. The allowance for loan losses consists of an allocated component and an unallocated component. To determine the total allowance for loan losses, we estimate the reserves needed for each loan class, including loans analyzed individually and loans analyzed on a pooled basis

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        To determine the allocated component of the allowance account, loans are pooled by loan class and losses are modeled using historical experience over the loss emergence period. The models and assumptions used to determine the allowance are validated and reviewed to ensure that their theoretical foundation, assumptions, data integrity, computational processes, reporting practices, and end-user controls are appropriate and properly documented.

        The unallocated allowance for loan losses represents environmental factors applied to each loan class and is based upon management's evaluation of various conditions that are not directly measured in the determination of the formula and other allocated allowances.

        The establishment of the allowance for loan losses relies on a consistent process that requires multiple layers of management review and judgment and responds timely to changes in economic conditions and other influences. From time to time, events or economic factors may affect the loan portfolio, causing management to provide additional amounts to or release balances from the allowance for loan losses.

        Management monitors differences between estimated and actual incurred loan losses utilizing charge-off history. Loans deemed uncollectible are charged against, while recoveries are credited to, the allowance. Management adjusts the level of the allowance through the provision for loan losses, which is recorded as a current period operating expense.

        Commercial (including commercial mortgages) and construction loans (including both commercial and consumer) are generally evaluated for impairment when the loan becomes 90 days past due and/or is rated as substandard. The difference between the fair value of the collateral, less estimated selling costs and the carrying value of the loan is charged off at that time. Residential mortgage loans are generally charged down to their fair value when the loan becomes 120 days past due or is placed in nonaccrual status, whichever is earlier. Consumer loans are generally charged off when the loan becomes 120 days past due or when it is determined that the amounts due are uncollectible (whichever is earlier). The above charge-off guidelines may not apply if the loan is both well secured and in the process of collection. These charge-off policies have not changed in the last three years.

        As an additional portion of the allowance for loan losses, we also estimate probable losses related to unfunded loan commitments. These commitments are subject to individual review and are analyzed for impairment the same as a correspondent loan.

Impairment

        We determine a loan to be impaired when, based on current information and events, it is probable that we will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. In general, impaired loans consist of nonaccrual loans and troubled debt restructures ("TDR" or "TDRs"). We do not consider a loan impaired during a period of delay in payment if we expect to collect all amounts due, including interest past due. Generally we consider a period of delay in payment to include delinquency up to 90 days, but may extend this period if the loan is collateralized by residential or commercial real estate with a low LTV ratio, and where collection and repayment efforts are progressing. We evaluate our commercial, commercial mortgage, commercial construction, and consumer construction classes of loans individually for impairment. We evaluate larger groups of smaller-balance homogeneous loans, which include our residential mortgage, home equity and second mortgage, and other consumer classes of loans, collectively for impairment.

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        We identify impaired loans and measure impairment (1) at the present value of expected cash flows discounted at the loan's effective interest rate, (2) at the observable market price, or (3) at the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral dependent. If our measure of the impaired loan is less than the recorded investment in the loan, we record a charge-off for the deficiency unless it's a TDR, for which we recognize an impairment loss through an allocated portion of the allowance for loan losses.

        When the ultimate collectability of an impaired loan's principal is in doubt, wholly or partially, all cash receipts are applied to principal. Once the recorded principal balance has been reduced to zero, future cash receipts are applied to interest income, to the extent any interest has been foregone, and then they are recorded as recoveries of any amounts previously charged off. When this doubt no longer exists, cash receipts are applied under the contractual terms of the loan agreement.

Nonaccrual status

        For smaller consumer loans, we place loans in nonaccrual status when they are contractually past due 90 days as to either principal or interest, unless the loan is well secured and in the process of collection, or earlier, when, in the opinion of management, the collection of principal and interest is in doubt. For all commercial loans, larger loans, and certain mortgage loans, management applies Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") guidance on impaired loan accounting to determine accrual status. Under that guidance, when it is probable that we will be unable to collect all payments due, including interest, we place the loan in nonaccrual status. A loan remains in nonaccrual status until the loan is current as to payment of both principal and interest and the borrower demonstrates the ability to pay and remain current. Specifically, in order for a nonaccrual loan to be returned to accrual status, a borrower must make six consecutive monthly payments and the borrower must demonstrate the ability to keep the loan current going forward. When a loan is partially charged off, the remaining balance remains in nonaccrual status.

        As a result of our ongoing review of the loan portfolio, we may classify loans as nonaccrual even though the presence of collateral or the borrower's financial strength may be sufficient to provide for ultimate repayment. In general, loans are charged off when a loan or a portion thereof is considered uncollectible. We determine that the entire balance of a loan is contractually delinquent for all classes if the minimum payment is not received by the specified due date. Interest and fees continue to accrue on past due loans until the date the loan goes in nonaccrual status.

Income recognition

        Interest income on loans is accrued at the contractual rate based on the principal outstanding. Loan origination fees and certain direct loan origination costs are deferred and amortized as a yield adjustment over the contractual loan terms or until the date of sale or disposition. Accrual of interest is discontinued when its receipt is in doubt, which typically occurs when a loan becomes impaired. Any interest accrued to income in the year when interest accruals are discontinued is generally reversed. Management may elect to continue the accrual of interest when a loan is in the process of collection and the estimated fair value of the collateral is sufficient to satisfy the principal balance and accrued interest. Payments on nonaccrual loans are applied to principal. See additional information on loan impairment and nonaccrual status above.

Real estate acquired through foreclosure

        We record real estate acquired through foreclosure at the lower of cost or market value ("LCM") on the acquisition date and at the lower of such initial amount or estimated fair value less estimated selling costs thereafter. Estimated fair value is based upon many subjective factors, including location and condition of the property and current economic conditions, among other things. Because the

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calculation of fair value relies on estimates and judgments relating to inherently uncertain events, results may differ from our estimates.

        Write-downs at the time of transfer are made through the allowance for loan losses. Write-downs subsequent to transfer are included in our noninterest expenses, along with operating income, net of related expenses of such properties and gains or losses realized upon disposition.

Income taxes

        Deferred income taxes are recognized for the tax consequences of temporary differences between financial statement carrying amounts and the tax bases of assets and liabilities. Deferred income taxes are provided on income and expense items when they are reported for financial statement purposes in periods different from the periods in which these items are recognized in the income tax returns. Deferred tax assets are recognized only to the extent that it is more likely than not that such amounts will be realized based upon consideration of available evidence, including tax planning strategies and other factors.

        The calculation of tax liabilities is complex and requires the use of estimates and judgment since it involves the application of complex tax laws that are subject to different interpretations by us and the various tax authorities. These interpretations are subject to challenge by the tax authorities upon audit or to reinterpretation based on management's ongoing assessment of facts and evolving case law.

        Periodically and in the ordinary course of business, we are involved in inquiries and reviews by tax authorities that normally require management to provide supplemental information to support certain tax positions we take in our tax returns. Uncertain tax positions are initially recognized in the financial statements when it is more likely than not the position will be sustained upon examination by the tax authorities. Such tax positions are initially and subsequently measured as the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement with the tax authority assuming full knowledge of the position and all relevant facts. For tax positions not meeting the "more likely than not" test, no tax benefit is recorded. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, we maintained a valuation allowance against the full amount of our deferred tax assets. Management believes it has taken appropriate positions on its tax returns, although the ultimate outcome of any tax review cannot be predicted with certainty. No assurance can be given that the final outcome of these matters will not be different than what is reflected in the current and historical financial statements.

        We recognize interest and penalties related to income tax matters in income tax expense.

Other financial instruments carried at fair value

        We record certain financial instruments at fair value (other than those described above), which inherently require assumptions and judgments in their valuation. Such financial instruments include LHFS, IRLCs, forward sales of mortgage-backed securities, and warrants.

LHFS

        Loans originated for sale are carried at fair value. Fair value is determined based on outstanding investor commitments or, in the absence of such commitments, on current investor yield requirements or third party pricing models. Gains and losses on loan sales are determined using the specific-identification method and are recognized through mortgage-banking revenue in the Consolidated Statement of Operations.

IRLCs

        We engage an experienced third party to estimate the fair market value of our IRLCs, which are valued based upon mandatory pricing quotes from correspondent lenders less estimated costs to process

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and settle the loan. Fair value is adjusted for the estimated probability of the loan closing with the borrower. Gains and losses are recognized through mortgage-banking revenue in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Forward sales of mortgage-backed securities

        Fair value for forward sales of mortgage-backed securities is determined based upon the quoted market values of the securities. Gains and losses are recognized through mortgage-banking revenue in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Warrants

        The fair value of warrants is calculated using the Black-Scholes-Merton option-pricing model.

Results of Operations and Financial Condition

        The following discussion compares our financial condition at December 31, 2012 to the financial condition at December 31, 2011 and results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010. This discussion should be read in conjunction with our accompanying financial statements and related notes as well as statistical information included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Performance Overview

        We recorded net income of $16.1 million for 2012 compared to a net loss of $30.2 million for 2011, with diluted earnings per share totaling $0.85 for 2012 compared to diluted losses per share of $1.62 in 2011.

        We realized significant improvement in our mortgage-banking operations during 2012. Volume significantly increased as did the spreads we realized on loan sales.

        Our total classified assets and delinquencies improved during 2012, which reduced the required amount of our allowance for loan losses from $13.8 million at December 31, 2011 to $11.4 million at December 31, 2012. We experienced significantly fewer charge-offs in real estate loans as real estate collateral values improved during 2012. We also experienced fewer foreclosures in 2012.

        In general, a bank's primary source of revenue is net interest income which, in our case, increased $3.8 million in 2012 compared to 2011, primarily due a decrease in the rates paid on time deposits.

        Noninterest income increased $32.2 million due primarily to our robust mortgage-banking operations during 2012. Net OTTI improved by $378,000 from 2011 to 2012. We recognized a $1.3 million loss on the disposal of premises and equipment when we restructured our office space. We experienced decreases in all other noninterest income categories.

        Total expenses increased primarily due to compensation expense related to mortgage-banking operations and to an increase in corporate insurance as renewal rates increased in 2012. Additionally, we converted our core processing system to a new system in October of 2012 and mailing to customers regarding the conversion contributed to increased postage expense. These increases were significantly offset by reductions in other expenses that were the result of cost-cutting measures taken in 2012.

        Return on average assets, the quotient of net income divided by total average assets, measures how effectively we utilize the Company's assets to produce income. Our return on average assets was 1.31% for 2012 compared to (2.50)% for 2011.

        Our total assets increased by $198.5 million, or 16.8%, during 2012, primarily a result of increased LHFS. Earning assets increased $136.9 million, or 14.3%, from $959.1 million in 2011 to $1.1 billion in

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2012. Deposits increased by $172.1 million and short- and long-term borrowings increased by $5.3 million from December 31, 2011 to December 31, 2012. Stockholders' deficit decreased $17.0 million, reflecting the 2012 earnings and improvements in other comprehensive losses.

        Our asset quality showed some improvement from 2011 to 2012 as our level of NPAs decreased from $61.9 million at December 31, 2011 to $56.5 million at December 31, 2012. At December 31, 2012, our allowance for loan losses amounted to $11.4 million, which totaled 20.1% of NPAs plus loans past due 90 days or more as of December 31, 2012 compared to 20.2% as of December 31, 2011. Our level of NPAs amounted to 4.1% of total assets at December 31, 2012 compared to 5.3% of total assets at December 31, 2011. Our ratio of net charge-offs to average total loans was 0.8% in 2012 compared to 1.9% in 2011.

        Bank capital adequacy levels (as defined by banking regulation) improved from 2011 to 2012, reflecting the 2012 earnings; the Bank was considered "undercapitalized" at December 31, 2012 as opposed to "significantly undercapitalized" as of December 31, 2011. As of December 31, 2012, the Bank's leverage, Tier I capital to risk-weighted assets, and total capital to risk-weighted assets ratios were 3.8%, 6.1%, and 7.3%, respectively, compared to 3.0%, 4.2%, and 5.5%, respectively, at December 31, 2011. As a result of being below "well capitalized" levels, the Bank is under various operating restrictions and mandates in accordance with agreements with regulators as described in additional detail later in this Item under "Capital Resources."

Results of Operations

Net Interest Income/Margins

        Our primary source of earnings is net interest income, which is the difference between the interest income we earn on interest-earning assets, such as loans and securities, and the interest expense we pay on interest-bearing sources of funds, such as deposits and borrowings. Net interest income is a function of several factors, including changes in the volume and mix of interest-earning assets and funding sources, and market interest rates. While management policies influence these factors, external forces, including customer needs and demands, competition, the economic policies of the federal government, and the monetary policies of the FRB, are also determining factors.

        Net interest income for 2012 increased by $3.8 million to $31.9 million compared to $28.2 million for 2011 primarily due to a decrease in the rates paid on time deposits.

        The net interest margin is the key performance measure for our net interest income. Our net interest margin is affected by our loan pricing, our mix of earning assets, levels of NPAs, and our distribution and pricing of deposits and borrowings. Our net interest margin (net interest income divided by average earning assets) increased to 3.14% for 2012, compared to 3.03% for 2011.

Interest income

        Total interest income increased by $227,000 from 2011 to 2012 due primarily to an increase in the level of average earning assets of $86.7 million, partially offset by a decrease in the yields on earning assets from 5.11% to 4.70%. Yields on earning assets continue to be affected by the level of NPAs and corresponding interest reversals and low rate environment.

        Average loans outstanding decreased by $91.3 million. We experienced decreases in all loan segments due primarily to our continued efforts to improve the quality of our loan portfolio as well as due to a weak real estate market, which has led to the reduction of new real estate loans.

        Average LHFS increased $187.1 million, due to significantly higher origination volumes. Average securities decreased by $6.4 million. During 2012, we purchased $41.6 million in securities in order to better utilize our liquidity.

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Interest expense

        Interest expense decreased by $3.5 million to $15.8 million for 2012 compared to $19.3 million for 2011. We experienced a decrease in the average rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities, from 1.75% for 2011 to 1.40% for 2012. The decrease in the average rate paid was primarily a result of a decrease in the rate paid on time deposits from 1.99% to 1.45% due to a decreased rate environment and our reduction in rates offered due to our high level of liquidity. The rate decrease was partially offset by a slight increase in average interest-bearing liabilities.

        Average interest-bearing deposits increased by $21.8 million due to additional deposits from our national nonbrokered time deposit program (see description later in this Item under "Deposits") combined with increases in savings and money market accounts. An increase in average borrowings of $4.0 million was due primarily to increased FHLB borrowings. We experienced a slight increase in the costs of borrowed funds from 2.16% for 2011 to 2.21% for 2012.

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        The table below sets forth the average balances, net interest income and expense, and average yields and rates for our interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities for 2012, 2011, and 2010.

 
  2012   2011   2010  
 
  Average
Balance
  Interest(1)   Yield/
Rate
  Average
Balance
  Interest(1)   Yield/
Rate
  Average
Balance
  Interest(1)   Yield/
Rate
 
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

ASSETS

                                                       

Loans(2):

                                                       

Commercial

  $ 50,855   $ 2,693     5.30 % $ 63,433   $ 3,398     5.36 % $ 76,738   $ 3,997     5.21 %

Commercial mortgage

    301,916     17,996     5.96 %   337,955     20,749     6.14 %   351,001     21,900     6.24 %

Commercial construction

    52,365     2,956     5.64 %   55,698     3,167     5.69 %   76,663     4,029     5.26 %

Consumer construction

    17,362     787     4.53 %   22,851     1,043     4.56 %   40,650     2,178     5.36 %

Residential mortgage

    115,414     6,270     5.43 %   130,885     6,934     5.30 %   155,438     8,741     5.62 %

Consumer

    124,084     5,252     4.23 %   142,477     6,398     4.49 %   152,497     7,070     4.64 %
                                             

Total loans

    661,996     35,954     5.43 %   753,299     41,689     5.53 %   852,987     47,915     5.62 %

LHFS

    276,959     10,327     3.73 %   89,812     3,813     4.25 %   108,634     4,911     4.52 %

Securities, trading and AFS

    35,900     1,213     3.38 %   42,333     1,567     3.70 %   27,705     1,917     6.92 %

Interest-bearing deposits

    34,711     240     0.69 %   37,328     438     1.17 %   27,912     478     1.71 %

Restricted stock investments, at cost

    6,947             7,036             7,661          
                                             

Total earning assets

    1,016,513     47,734     4.70 %   929,808     47,507     5.11 %   1,024,899     55,221     5.39 %

Allowance for loan losses

    (13,389 )               (14,657 )               (13,051 )            

Cash and other nonearning assets

    227,998                 294,397                 346,744              
                                             

Total assets

  $ 1,231,122     47,734         $ 1,209,548     47,507         $ 1,358,592     55,221        
                                             

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' (DEFICIT) EQUITY

                                                       

Interest-bearing deposits:

                                                       

NOW

  $ 5,567     46     0.83 % $ 6,182     17     0.27 % $ 7,405     47     0.63 %

Savings

    58,453     252     0.43 %   57,450     112     0.19 %   56,271     152     0.27 %

Money market

    138,764     763     0.55 %   127,584     715     0.56 %   140,067     875     0.62 %

Time

    753,580     10,901     1.45 %   743,309     14,819     1.99 %   823,248     19,752     2.40 %
                                             

Total interest-bearing deposits

    956,364     11,962     1.25 %   934,525     15,663     1.68 %   1,026,991     20,826     2.03 %

Borrowings

    173,477     3,826     2.21 %   169,496     3,662     2.16 %   176,786     4,557     2.58 %
                                             

Total interest-bearing liabilities

    1,129,841     15,788     1.40 %   1,104,021     19,325     1.75 %   1,203,777     25,383     2.11 %

Noninterest-bearing demand deposits

    101,727                 103,201                 107,119              

Other noninterest-bearing liabilities

    15,128                 13,276                 8,862              

Stockholders' (deficit) equity

    (15,574 )               (10,950 )               38,834              
                                             

Total liabilities and stockholders' (deficit) equity

  $ 1,231,122     15,788         $ 1,209,548     19,325         $ 1,358,592     25,383        
                                             

Net interest income/net interest spread

        $ 31,946     3.30 %       $ 28,182     3.36 %       $ 29,838     3.28 %
                                                   

Net interest margin(3)

                3.14 %               3.03 %               2.91 %

(1)
There are no tax equivalency adjustments
(2)
The average balances of nonaccrual loans for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010, which are included in the average loan balances for these years, were $36.4 million, $40.1 million, and $47.2 million, respectively.
(3)
Net interest margin is calculated as net interest income divided by average earning assets

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        The "Rate/Volume Analysis" (1) below indicates the changes in our net interest income as a result of changes in volume and rates. We maintain an asset and liability management policy designed to provide a proper balance between rate-sensitive assets and rate-sensitive liabilities to attempt to optimize interest margins while providing adequate liquidity for our anticipated needs.

 
  2012 Compared to 2011   2011 Compared to 2010  
 
  Change Due to Variance In   Change Due to Variance In  
 
  Rates   Volume   Total   Rates   Volume   Total  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

INTEREST INCOME

                                     

Loans:

                                     

Commercial

  $ (38 ) $ (667 ) $ (705 ) $ 111   $ (710 ) $ (599 )

Commercial mortgage

    (591 )   (2,162 )   (2,753 )   (346 )   (805 )   (1,151 )

Commercial construction

    (23 )   (188 )   (211 )   310     (1,172 )   (862 )

Consumer construction

    (8 )   (248 )   (256 )   (286 )   (849 )   (1,135 )

Residential mortgage

    173     (837 )   (664 )   (485 )   (1,322 )   (1,807 )

Consumer

    (353 )   (793 )   (1,146 )   (218 )   (454 )   (672 )
                           

Total loans

    (840 )   (4,895 )   (5,735 )   (914 )   (5,312 )   (6,226 )

LHFS

    (517 )   7,031     6,514     (286 )   (812 )   (1,098 )

Securities, trading and AFS

    (129 )   (225 )   (354 )   (1,112 )   762     (350 )

Interest-bearing deposits

    (169 )   (29 )   (198 )   (175 )   135     (40 )
                           

Total interest income

    (1,655 )   1,882     227     (2,487 )   (5,227 )   (7,714 )
                           

INTEREST EXPENSE

                                     

Interest-bearing deposits:

                                     

NOW

    31     (2 )   29     (23 )   (7 )   (30 )

Savings

    138     2     140     (43 )   3     (40 )

Money market

    (14 )   62     48     (86 )   (74 )   (160 )

Time

    (4,120 )   202     (3,918 )   (3,133 )   (1,800 )   (4,933 )
                           

Total interest-bearing deposits

    (3,965 )   264     (3,701 )   (3,285 )   (1,878 )   (5,163 )

Borrowings

    77     87     164     (713 )   (182 )   (895 )
                           

Total interest expense

    (3,888 )   351     (3,537 )   (3,998 )   (2,060 )   (6,058 )
                           

Net interest income

  $ 2,233   $ 1,531   $ 3,764   $ 1,511   $ (3,167 ) $ (1,656 )
                           

(1)
Changes in interest income and interest expense that result from variances in both volume and rates have been allocated to rate and volume changes in proportion to the absolute dollar amounts of the change in each.

Noninterest Income

        We derive noninterest income principally from mortgage-banking activities, service fees on our deposit accounts, ATM fees, commissions on sales of nondeposit investment products ("brokerage fees"), and income from BOLI. Our noninterest income for the year ended December 31, 2012 totaled $55.5 million, compared to $23.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2011, an increase of $32.2 million.

        Mortgage-banking revenue increased from $13.6 million in 2011 to $49.7 million in 2012 due to significantly increased originations for both refinances and sales. The volume of loans sold increased from $1.1 billion in 2011 to $2.3 billion in 2012. In addition, the spreads we realized on the sales of mortgage loans significantly improved for 2012 compared to 2011.

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        We recognized $758,000 in gains on sales of AFS securities during 2011, whereas in 2012, we did not sell any securities. During 2012, we recognized $460,000 in net OTTI charges on AFS securities, compared to $838,000 recorded in 2011. See "Securities" discussion later in this Item for more information on these OTTI charges and the related securities.

        We experienced decreases in all other noninterest income categories. During 2012, we moved a portion of our operations to a building we own on Boston Street and wrote off a significant amount of furniture, fixtures, and leasehold improvements related to our previous location.

        The following table shows the detail of our noninterest income for the years ended December 31:

 
  2012   2011   2010  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Net OTTI charges on AFS securities

  $ (460 ) $ (838 ) $ (1,249 )

Mortgage-banking revenue

    49,682     13,595     16,950  

ATM fees

    2,617     3,046     3,038  

Gain on debt exchange

            958  

Service fees on deposits

    2,563     2,945     3,944  

Gain on financial instruments carried at fair value

            1,661  

Gain on sale of AFS securities, net

        758     54  

(Loss) gain on disposal of premises and equipment

    (1,271 )       67  

Commissions on sales of nondeposit investment products

    256     437     496  

Income from BOLI

    1,122     1,291     1,415  

Other

    977     2,015     858  
               

  $ 55,486   $ 23,249   $ 28,192  
               

Noninterest Expense

        Our noninterest expense increased $629,000, or 0.9%, to $68.6 million compared to $68.0 million for 2011.

        Compensation expense increased $888,000 due primarily to mortgage-banking operations.

        Occupancy and furniture and equipment expenses decreased primarily due to office consolidation and the sublet of remaining office space. Service and maintenance expense increased due to expenses incurred to get the new space ready for occupancy.

        Included in professional services expenses were continued high costs for regulatory compliance, loan workouts, and capital raise efforts, although to a lesser degree in 2012. Consulting costs increased primarily due to our capital raise efforts.

        Write-downs, losses, and costs of real estate acquired through foreclosure decreased to $6.5 million from $7.8 million in 2011 and loan collection costs also decreased due to decreased classified loans and loan workouts.

        Corporate insurance expense increased as the renewal rates increased during 2012. Advertising expense increased primarily due to our mortgage-banking division's direct mail campaign, which also contributed to the increase in postage costs. Postage expense also increased due to customer mailings related to our system conversion and overnight delivery expenses increased due to the increased mortgage-banking loan origination volume.

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        The following table shows the detail of our other noninterest expense for the years ended December 31:

 
  2012   2011   2010  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Office supplies

  $ 573   $ 440   $ 468  

Printing

    406     308     406  

Marketing/promotion

    838     755     951  

Overnight delivery/courier

    622     392     436  

Security

    270     230     270  

Dues and subscriptions

    461     378     407  

Director fees

    354     332     313  

Employee education and training

    112     57     94  

Automobile expense

    108     109     135  

Travel and entertainment

    289     237     173  

Other

    1,805     1,853     2,593  
               

  $ 5,838   $ 5,091   $ 6,246  
               

Income Tax Expense (Benefit)

        Due to prior period operating losses and the uncertainty surrounding future profitability, we have established a valuation allowance against the full amount of our deferred taxes. The establishment of the valuation allowance does not preclude the company from realizing these assets in the future.

        We recorded income tax expense of $163,000 on net income before taxes of $16.3 million, which represents Federal Alternative Minimum Tax expense, net of certain state credits, and resulted in an effective tax rate of 1.0% for 2012. We recorded an income tax benefit of $606,000 on a net loss before taxes of $30.9 million, resulting in an effective tax rate of (2.0)% for 2011. The tax benefit in 2011 was the result of a refundable income tax credit.

        The Bank has earned significant state tax incentives totaling $5.5 million through its participation in the One Maryland Economic Development ("One Maryland") and Job Creation Tax Credit programs. We will realize the benefits of the incentives in our reported earnings as the credits can be utilized, in accordance with accounting standards that govern the recognition of investment tax credits. The amount of the credit that we can utilize will largely be determined by the level of Maryland taxable income for the Bank only, and will be recognized as a reduction in our income tax expense. During 2012, 2011, and 2010, we utilized $362,000, $606,000, and $600,000, respectively, in credits related to this incentive program as a portion of the credits earned are funded regardless of taxable income levels. Any unused One Maryland credits can be carried forward and will expire in 2016. The Job Creation Tax Credit can be carried forward for five years.

Financial Condition

        At December 31, 2012, our total assets were $1.4 billion compared to $1.2 billion at December 31, 2011, an increase of 16.8%, primarily a result of increased LHFS. Earning assets increased $136.9 million, or 14.3%, from $959.1 million in 2011 to $1.1 billion in 2012. Deposits increased by $172.1 million and short- and long-term borrowings increased by $5.3 million from December 31, 2011 to December 31, 2012. Stockholders' deficit decreased $17.0 million, reflecting the 2012 earnings and improvements in accumulated other comprehensive losses.

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Securities

        We utilize the securities portfolio as part of our overall asset/liability management practices to enhance interest revenue while providing necessary liquidity for the funding of loan growth or deposit withdrawals. We continually monitor the credit risk associated with investments and diversify the risk in the securities portfolios. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, we held $57.7 million and $22.7 million, respectively, in securities classified as AFS.

        Our securities portfolio at December 31, 2012 was comprised of marketable securities. The maturity structure of our securities portfolio is significantly influenced by the level of prepayment activity on mortgage-backed securities. At December 31, 2012, the average duration of our securities portfolio was 2.3 years, slightly longer than the average duration of 2.0 years at December 31, 2011, primarily due to the purchase of longer-term securities in 2012 as well as an increase in the projected lives of our mortgage-backed securities.

        AFS securities increased $35.0 million from December 31, 2011. During 2012, we purchased $41.6 million in AFS securities in order to utilize some of our excess liquidity. We recorded $460,000 in net OTTI charges related to pooled trust preferred securities during 2012, compared to $838,000 in 2011. Overall market values of securities have improved as evidenced by a net unrealized loss on securities classified as AFS of $1.9 million at December 31, 2012 compared to a net unrealized loss of $3.0 million at December 31, 2011.

        Changes in current market conditions, such as interest rates and the economic uncertainties in the mortgage, housing, and banking industries have severely impacted the securities market. The secondary market for various types of securities has been limited and has negatively impacted security values. Quarterly, we review each security in our AFS portfolio to determine the nature of any decline in value and evaluate if any impairment should be classified as OTTI. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, we determined that OTTI had occurred with respect to four of our pooled trust preferred securities.

        The trust preferred securities we hold in our securities portfolio were issued by other banks, bank holding companies, and insurance companies. As mentioned above, certain of these securities have experienced declines in credit ratings from credit rating firms, which have devalued these specific securities. While some of these issuers have reported weaker financial performance since acquisition of these securities, in management's opinion, they continue to possess acceptable credit risk. We monitor the actual default rates and interest deferrals for possible losses and contractual shortfalls of interest or principal, which could warrant further recognition of impairment.

        All of the remaining securities that are impaired are so due to declines in fair values resulting from changes in interest rates or increased credit/liquidity spreads compared to the time they were purchased. We have the intent to hold these securities to maturity and it is more likely than not that we will not be required to sell the securities before recovery of value. As such, management considers the impairments to be temporary.

        Our total investment in trust preferred securities, corporate obligations, common equity securities, and mutual funds totaled $11.2 million as of both December 31, 2012 and 2011.

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        Our AFS securities portfolio composition was as follows as of December 31:

 
  2012   2011   2010   2009   2008  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Mortgage-backed securities

  $ 7,134   $ 1,959   $ 2,325   $ 11,742   $ 22,248  

Trust preferred securities

    9,181     10,268     10,464     13,338     12,866  

U.S. government agency notes

    33,537     8,518     12,071          

U.S. Treasury securities

    5,781     1,004     1,001     1,003     1,003  

Corporate obligations

            1,010     930     2,548  

Equity securities—banks

    1,256     151     197     162     251  

Equity securities—mutual funds

    787     782     758     750      

Foreign government bonds

                350     750  
                       

  $ 57,676   $ 22,682   $ 27,826   $ 28,275   $ 39,666  
                       

        The amortized cost, estimated fair values, and weighted average yields of debt securities at December 31, 2012, by contractual maturity, are shown below. Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because issuers have the right to call or prepay obligations. Equity securities are excluded as they have no stated maturity.

 
   
 

Unrealized
   
   
 
 
  Amortized
Cost
  Estimated
Fair Value
  Weighted-
Average
Yield
 
 
  Gains   Losses  
 
   
  (dollars in thousands)
   
   
 

Mortgage-backed securities:

                               

Due after ten years

  $ 7,040   $ 169   $ 75   $ 7,134     3.69 %

Trust preferred securities:

                               

Due one to five years

    1,019             1,019     8.00 %

Due after ten years

    10,227     79     2,144     8,162     5.78 %

U.S. government agency notes:

                               

Due within one year

    9,000     33         9,033     1.05 %

Due one to five years

    24,435     74     5     24,504     1.35 %

U.S. Treasury securities:

                               

Due within one year

    4,002             4,002     0.19 %

Due one to five years

    1,777     2         1,779     1.41 %
                         

  $ 57,500   $ 357   $ 2,224   $ 55,633     2.42 %
                         

        Weighted yields are based on amortized cost. Mortgage-backed securities are assigned to maturity categories based on their final maturity.

LHFS

        We originate residential mortgage loans for sale on the secondary market. At December 31, 2012 and 2011, such LHFS amounted to $404.3 million and $183.0 million, respectively.

        When we sell mortgage loans we make certain representations to the purchaser related to loan ownership, loan compliance and legality, and accurate documentation, among other things. If a loan is found to be out of compliance with any of the representations subsequent to the date of purchase, we may be required to repurchase the loan or indemnify the purchaser for losses related to the loan, depending on the agreement with the purchaser. In addition other factors may cause us to be required to repurchase or "make-whole" a loan previously sold.

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        The most common reason for a loan repurchase is due to a documentation error or disagreement with an investor or on rare occasions for fraud. Repurchase requests are negotiated with each investor at the time we are notified of the demand and an appropriate reserve is taken at that time. Repurchase and or "make-whole" requests are initially negotiated by the secondary marketing department and monitored by the secondary marketing committee where most disagreements are resolved with no reserve requirement or loss to the Company. In the event there is an unresolved repurchase or "make-whole" request, the loan is managed by the secondary marketing committee and is elevated to be monitored by the mortgage overview committee to determine the final settlement terms with the investor. Repurchases amounted to $1.6 million and $517,000 during 2012 and 2011, respectively. Our reserve for potential repurchase losses was $484,000 and $660,000 as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively. These reserves were calculated based upon an analysis of the specific loans in question. We do not expect increases in repurchases or related losses to be a growing trend nor do we see it having a significant impact on our financial results.

Loans

        Our loan portfolio is expected to produce higher yields than investment securities and other interest-earning assets; the absolute volume and mix of loans and the volume and mix of loans as a percentage of total earning assets is an important determinant of our net interest margin.

        Approximately 83% of our loans receivable are to customers located in the state of Maryland. Loans are extended only after evaluation of customers' creditworthiness and other relevant factors using mortgage industry standard underwriting criteria. For residential mortgage loans, we generally follow Federal National Mortgage Association ("FNMA"), Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation ("FHLMC"), FHA, VA, or other secondary marketing standard underwriting guidelines. Conventional mortgage loans with an LTV ratio greater than 80% generally require mortgage insurance. Loans underwritten to FHA or VA guidelines generally have LTV's greater than 95% and have Mortgage Insurance Guarantees from the U.S. Government. For all other loans with real estate collateral, we generally do not lend more than 90% of the appraised value of a property at origination. In addition, we generally obtain personal guarantees of repayment from our borrowers and/or others for commercial (including commercial mortgage) and construction (both commercial and consumer) loans and disburse the proceeds of construction and similar loans only as work progresses on the related projects.

        We consider our residential lending to generally involve less risk than other forms of lending, although our payment experience on these loans is dependent, to some extent, on economic and market conditions in our primary lending area. In 2012 and 2011, loss levels on residential mortgage, home equity, and second mortgage loans were significant due to the declines in residential real estate values and higher defaults experienced in these portfolios. Commercial (including commercial mortgage) and construction (both commercial and consumer) loan repayments are generally dependent on the operations of the related properties or the financial condition of the borrower or guarantor. Accordingly, repayment of such loans can be more susceptible to adverse conditions in the real estate market and the regional economy. We experienced significant losses in both 2012 and 2011 in these loan segments as well.

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        The following table sets forth the composition of our loan portfolio as of December 31:

 
  2012   Percent
of Total
  2011   Percent
of Total
  2010   Percent
of Total
 
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Commercial

  $ 47,907     7.9 % $ 52,842     7.5 % $ 78,801     9.7 %

Commercial mortgage

    263,714     43.2 %   326,530     46.5 %   349,411     43.1 %

Commercial construction

    49,902     8.2 %   54,349     7.8 %   58,764     7.2 %

Consumer construction

    18,837     3.1 %   16,280     2.3 %   30,792     3.8 %

Residential mortgage

    111,345     18.2 %   121,119     17.3 %   144,209     17.8 %

Consumer

    118,691     19.4 %   130,631     18.6 %   149,710     18.4 %
                           

Total loans

  $ 610,396     100.0 % $ 701,751     100.0 % $ 811,687     100.0 %
                           

 

 
  2009   Percent
of Total
  2008   Percent
of Total
 
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Commercial

  $ 77,634     8.7 % $ 91,111     9.3 %

Commercial mortgage

    339,794     38.1 %   319,143     32.6 %

Commercial construction

    99,490     11.2 %   109,484     11.2 %

Consumer construction

    47,379     5.3 %   69,589     7.1 %

Residential mortgage

    176,159     19.8 %   138,323     14.1 %

Consumer

    150,495     16.9 %   251,046     25.7 %
                   

Total loans

  $ 890,951     100.0 % $ 978,696     100.0 %
                   

        Total loans decreased $91.4 million during 2012. We experienced lower balances in all loan types, with the exception of consumer construction loans, which increased $2.6 million. We remained focused on improving asset quality to improve our capital ratios.

        Approximately 41.0% and 42.5% of our loans had adjustable rates (including adjustable-rate first mortgage loans indexed to either U.S. Treasury obligations or LIBOR and variable home equity lines of credit tied to the Prime interest rate) as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Our variable-rate loans adjust to the current interest rate environment, whereas fixed rates do not allow this flexibility. If interest rates were to increase in the future, our interest earned on the variable-rate loans would improve, and if rates were to fall, the interest we earn on such loans would decline, thus impacting our interest income. Some variable-rate loans have rate floors and/or ceilings which may delay and/or limit changes in interest income in a period of changing rates. See our discussion in "Interest Rate Sensitivity" later in this Item for more information on interest rate fluctuations.

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        The following table sets forth the maturity distribution for our loan portfolio at December 31, 2012. Some of our loans may be renewed or repaid prior to maturity. Therefore, the following table should not be used as a forecast of our future cash collections.

 
  Maturing    
 
 
  In one year or less   After 1 through
5 years
  After 5 years    
 
 
  Fixed   Variable   Fixed   Variable   Fixed   Variable   Total  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Commercial

  $ 23,841   $ 4,979   $ 14,485   $ 2,651   $ 124   $ 1,827   $ 47,907  

Commercial mortgage

    110,466     16,276     70,710     26,598     24,440     15,224     263,714  

Commercial construction

    17,586     15,550     11,576     1,019     3,074     1,097     49,902  

Consumer construction

    14,490         3,131         1,216         18,837  

Residential mortgage

    691     1,546     3,155     7,309     27,224     71,420     111,345  

Consumer

    3,349     5,813     6,567     42,256     23,867     36,839     118,691  
                               

Total loans

  $ 170,423   $ 44,164   $ 109,624   $ 79,833   $ 79,945   $ 126,407   $ 610,396  
                               

Commercial Construction Portfolio

        Our commercial construction portfolio consists of construction and development loans for commercial purposes and includes loans made to builders and developers of residential real estate projects. Of the total included above as of December 31, 2012, $22.8 million represents loans made to borrowers for the development of residential real estate. This segment of the portfolio has exhibited greater weakness (relative to our other loan portfolios) during 2012 and 2011 due to overall weakness in the residential housing sector.

        The breakdown of the portion of the commercial construction portfolio made to borrowers for residential real estate is as follows as of December 31:

 
  2012   2011  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Raw residential land

  $ 5,001   $ 5,931  

Residential subdivisions

    3,888     4,171  

Single residential lots

    2,045     3,005  

Single family construction

    1,978     3,351  

Townhome construction

        209  

Multi-family unit construction

    9,860     5,561  
           

  $ 22,772   $ 22,228  
           

Transferred Loans

        In accordance with FASB guidance on accounting for certain mortgage-banking activities, any loans which are originally originated for sale into the secondary market and which we subsequently transfer into the Company's loan portfolio are valued at fair value at the time of the transfer with any decline in value recorded as a charge to operating expense. We maintained $17.3 million and $13.7 million, respectively, in mortgage loans that were transferred from LHFS to our residential mortgage and consumer loan portfolios at December 31, 2012 and 2011.

Credit Risk Management

        Credit risk is the risk of loss arising from the inability of a borrower to meet his or her obligations and entails both general risks, which are inherent in the process of lending, and risks specific to

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individual borrowers. Our credit risk is mitigated through portfolio diversification, which limits exposure to any single customer, industry, or collateral type.

        We manage credit risk by evaluating the risk profile of the borrower, repayment sources, the nature of the underlying collateral, and other support given current events, conditions, and expectations. We attempt to manage the risk characteristics of our loan portfolio through various control processes, such as credit evaluation of borrowers, establishment of lending limits, and application of lending procedures, including the holding of adequate collateral and the maintenance of compensating balances. However, we seek to rely primarily on the cash flow of our borrowers as the principal source of repayment. Although credit policies and evaluation processes are designed to minimize our risk, management recognizes that loan losses will occur and the amount of these losses will fluctuate depending on the risk characteristics of our loan portfolio, as well as general and regional economic conditions.

        Management has an established methodology to determine the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses that assesses the risks and losses inherent in the loan portfolio. Our allowance methodology employs management's assessment as to the level of future losses on existing loans based on our internal review of the loan portfolio, including an analysis of the borrowers' current financial position, and the consideration of current and anticipated economic conditions and their potential effects on specific borrowers and/or lines of business. In determining our ability to collect certain loans, we also consider the fair value of any underlying collateral. In addition, we evaluate credit risk concentrations, including trends in large dollar exposures to related borrowers, industry and geographic concentrations, and economic and environmental factors.

        For purposes of determining the allowance for loan losses, we have segmented our loan portfolio by product type. Our loan segments are commercial, commercial mortgage, commercial construction, consumer construction, residential mortgage, and consumer. We have looked at all segments to determine if subcategorization into classes is warranted based upon our credit review methodology. As of December 31, 2012, we divided consumer loans into two classes, (1) home equity and second mortgage loans and (2) other consumer loans. For each class of loan, significant judgment is exercised to determine the estimation method that fits the credit risk characteristics of its portfolio segment. We use internally developed models in this process. Management must use judgment in establishing additional input metrics for the modeling processes. The models and assumptions used to determine the allowance are independently validated and reviewed to ensure that their theoretical foundation, assumptions, data integrity, computational processes, reporting practices, and end-user controls are appropriate and properly documented.

        To establish the allocated portion of the allowance for loan losses, which we do on a quarterly basis, loans are pooled by portfolio class and an historical loss percentage is applied to each class. The historical loss percentage is based upon a rolling 24 month history, which gives us the most current and relevant charge-off data. The result of that calculation for each loan class is then applied to the current loan portfolio balances to determine the required allocated portion of the allowance for loan loss level per loan class. We then apply additional loss multipliers to the different classes of loans to reflect various environmental factors. This amount is considered our unallocated reserve. These factors capture any changes in economic trends, portfolio composition, real estate trends, as well as other factors and are meant to supplement the required allocated reserves. For individually evaluated loans (impaired loans), we do additional analyses to determine the impairment amount (see below for more detail on these calculations). In general, this impairment amount is included as an allocated portion of the allowance for loan losses for TDRs and is charged off for all other impaired loans. These loss estimates are performed under multiple economic scenarios to establish a range of potential outcomes for each criterion. Management applies judgment to develop its own view of loss probability within that range, using external and internal parameters with the objective of establishing an allowance for loss inherent within these portfolios as of the reporting date.

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        See our charge-off policies under "Critical Accounting Policies—Allowance for loan losses" above.

        See information on partial charge-offs later in this section.

Commercial

        Credit risk in commercial lending, which includes commercial, commercial mortgage, commercial construction, and consumer construction loans, can vary significantly, as losses as a percentage of outstanding loans can shift widely during economic cycles and are particularly sensitive to changing economic conditions.

        The risks associated with each portfolio class are as follows:

        Commercial and Commercial Mortgage—The primary loan-specific risks in commercial and commercial mortgage loans are: deterioration of the business and/or collateral values, deterioration of the financial condition of the borrowers and/or guarantors, which creates a risk of default, and the risk that real estate collateral value determined through appraisals are not reflective of the true property values.

        Portfolio risk includes condition of the economy, changing demand for these types of loans, large concentration of these types of loans, and geographic concentrations of these types of loans.

        Commercial Construction—loan-specific and portfolio risks related to commercial construction loans also carry the loan-specific and portfolio risks of commercial and commercial mortgage loans as described above. Additional loan-specific risks include project budget overruns and performance variables related to the contractor and subcontractors. An additional loan-specific risk for commercial construction of residential developments is the risk that the builder has a geographical concentration of developments.

        Consumer Construction—loan-specific and portfolio risks related to consumer construction loans to builders and ultimate homeowners carry the same loan-specific and portfolio risks as commercial construction loans as described above.

        In general, improving economic conditions result in improved operating results on the part of commercial customers, enhancing their ability to meet debt service requirements. However, any improvements in operating cash flows can be offset by the impact of rising interest rates that could occur during improved economic times. Declining economic conditions have an adverse effect on the operating results of commercial customers, reducing their ability to meet debt service obligations.

        Our commercial loans are generally reviewed individually, in accordance with FASB guidance on accounting for loan impairment, to determine impairment, accrual status, and the need for allocated reserves. We use creditworthiness categories to grade commercial loans. Our internal grading system is based on experiences with similarly graded loans and incorporates a variety of risk considerations, both qualitative and quantitative (see definitions of our various grades and the composition of our loan portfolio within those grades in Note 5 to the Consolidated Financial Statements). Quantitative factors include collateral values, financial condition of borrowers, and other factors. Qualitative factors include judgments concerning general economic conditions that may affect credit quality, credit concentrations, the pace of portfolio growth, and delinquency levels; these qualitative factors are evaluated in connection with the unallocated portion of our allowance for loan losses (see below). We periodically engage outside firms and experts to independently assess our methodology and perform various loan review functions.

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Consumer

        Our consumer portfolio includes first- and second-lien mortgage loans and other loans to individuals. The risks associated with each portfolio class are as follows:

        Residential Mortgage, Home Equity, and 2nd Mortgage—The primary loan-specific risks related to residential mortgage, home equity, and 2nd mortgage lending include: unemployment, deterioration in real estate values, our ability to assess the creditworthiness of the customer, deterioration in the borrowers financial condition, whether the result of personal issues or a general economic downturn, and the risk that property values determined through appraisals are not reflective of the true property values. The portfolio risks for these types of loans are the same as for commercial and commercial mortgages as described above.

        Other Consumer—The primary loan-specific risks of consumer loans are: unemployment, deterioration of the borrower's financial condition, whether the result of personal issues or a general economic downturn, and for certain consumer loans such as auto loans and boat loans, there is also a risk of deterioration in the value of the collateral. The portfolio risks for these types of loans are the same as for commercial and commercial mortgages as described above.

        Generally, consumer loans are segregated into homogeneous pools with similar risk characteristics. We do not individually grade consumer loans. Such loans are classified as performing or nonperforming. Trends such as delinquency and loss and current economic conditions in consumer loan pools are analyzed and historical loss experience is adjusted accordingly. Quantitative and qualitative adjustment factors for the different consumer portfolios are consistent with those for the commercial portfolios.

Unallocated

        The unallocated portion of the allowance is intended to provide for losses that are not identified when establishing the required allocated portion of the allowance and is based upon management's evaluation of various conditions that are not directly measured in the determination of the formula and other allocated allowances. Such conditions include general economic and business conditions affecting key lending areas, credit quality trends (including trends in delinquencies and nonperforming loans expected to result from existing conditions), loan volumes, loan concentrations by class and geography and any changes in such concentrations, specific industry conditions within portfolio categories, duration of the current business cycle, bank regulatory examination results, and management's judgment with respect to various other conditions including changes in management, including credit, loan administration, and origination staff, changes in underwriting standards, lending policies, and procedures, the impact of any new or modified lines of business, level and trends in nonaccrual and delinquent loans and charge-offs, changes in underlying collateral for collateral dependent loans, and management and the quality of risk identification systems. Management reviews these conditions quarterly. Economic factors are an important consideration in determining the adequacy of the loan loss reserve. A strong regional and national economy will reduce the probability of losses. Weaker regional and national economies will usually result in higher unemployment, higher vacancies in commercial real estate, and declining values on both commercial and residential properties, which will gradually increase the probability of losses. Key measures of economic strength or weakness are unemployment levels, interest rates, and economic growth and confidence.

        In calculating the unallocated reserves to be included in our allowance calculation, we apply a basis point factor to the respective portfolios for environmental factors. The addition of these factors

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represents the top range for the required reserves for the respective portfolios as of December 31, 2012 and 2011.

 
  2012  
 
  Commercial   Commercial
Mortgage
  Commercial
Construction
  Consumer
Construction
  Residential
Mortgage
  Consumer  
 
  (in basis points)
 

Concentration of credit and changes in level of concentration

        5     5     8     10      

Nature and volume of portfolio

        25     25     4     4      

Trends of past due and classified loans

    15     17     17     8     8      

Economic factors

    24     24     24     14     14     48  

Value of underlying collateral for collateral dependent loans

        25     25     23     23     5  
                           

    39     96     96     57     59     53  
                           

 

 
  2011  
 
  Commercial   Commercial
Mortgage
  Commercial
Construction
  Consumer
Construction
  Residential
Mortgage
  Consumer  
 
  (in basis points)
 

Concentration of credit and changes in level of concentration

        5     5     8     10      

Nature and volume of portfolio

        25     25     4     4      

Trends of past due and classified loans

    1     9     9     8     8      

Economic factors

    24     24     24     9     9     43  

Value of underlying collateral for collateral dependent loans

        21     21     21     21     5  
                           

    25     84     84     50     52     48  
                           

        Each of the above factors is evaluated quarterly. The factors applied to all loan segments were increased in 2012 based primarily upon our evaluation of the trends of delinquencies, classified loans, the economic environment, and underlying collateral values over the past few years.

        We have risk management practices designed to ensure timely identification of changes in loan risk profiles; however, undetected losses may inherently exist within the loan portfolio. The assessments aspects involved in analyzing the quality of individual loans and assessing collateral values can also contribute to undetected, but probable, losses.

        See additional detail on our allowance methodology and risk rating system in Note 5 to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8 of Part II of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

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        The following table summarizes the activities in our allowance for loan losses by portfolio segment for the years ended December 31:

 
  2012   2011   2010   2009   2008  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Allowance for loan losses, beginning of year

  $ 13,801   $ 14,115   $ 11,639   $ 16,777   $ 12,789  

Charge-offs:

                               

Commercial

    (360 )   (5,484 )   (1,979 )   (517 )    

Commercial mortgage

    (933 )   (3,335 )   (1,395 )   (871 )   (630 )

Commercial construction

    (409 )   (730 )   (4,252 )   (2,370 )   (401 )

Consumer construction

    (7 )   (43 )   (804 )   (1,493 )   (331 )

Residential mortgage

    (2,399 )   (2,720 )   (3,757 )   (4,546 )   (4,658 )

Consumer(1)

    (2,169 )   (2,868 )   (3,787 )   (2,650 )   (5,446 )
                       

Total charge-offs

    (6,277 )   (15,180 )   (15,974 )   (12,447 )   (11,466 )
                       

Recoveries:

                               

Commercial

                    13  

Commercial mortgage

    612     173         4     3  

Commercial construction

    52     27     7          

Consumer construction

                     

Residential mortgage

    439     39     104     46     9  

Consumer(2)

    235     297     549     231     367  
                       

Total recoveries

    1,338     536     660     281     392  
                       

Net charge-offs

    (4,939 )   (14,644 )   (15,314 )   (12,166 )   (11,074 )
                       

Allowance for acquired loans(3)

                    279  

Provision for loan losses—Bank

    2,572     14,330     17,790     11,660     10,856  

Provision for loan losses—Mariner Finance

                    3,927  

Mariner Finance allowance for loan losses

                (4,632 )    
                       

Allowance for loan losses, end of year

  $ 11,434   $ 13,801   $ 14,115   $ 11,639   $ 16,777  
                       

Loans (net of premiums and discounts):

                               

Year-end balance

  $ 610,396   $ 701,751   $ 811,687   $ 890,951   $ 978,696  

Average balance during year

    661,996     753,299     852,987     889,345     821,699  

Allowance as a percentage of year-end loan balance

    1.87 %   1.97 %   1.74 %   1.31 %   1.71 %

Percent of average loans:

                               

Provision for loan losses(4)

    0.39 %   1.90 %   2.09 %   1.31 %   1.32 %

Net charge-offs

    0.75 %   1.94 %   1.80 %   1.37 %   1.35 %

(1)
For 2008, includes charge-offs of $3.4 million related to Mariner Finance consumer loans.
(2)
For 2008, includes recoveries of $298,000 related to Mariner Finance consumer loans.
(3)
Allowance acquired by Mariner Finance in a transaction with Loans, USA.
(4)
For 2008, includes only the provision related to the Bank.

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        The following table summarizes our allocation of allowance by loan segment as of December 31:

 
  2012   2011   2010  
 
  Amount   Percent
of Total
  Percent
of Loans
to Total
Loans
  Amount   Percent
of Total
  Percent
of Loans
to Total
Loans
  Amount   Percent
of Total
  Percent
of Loans
to Total
Loans
 
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Commercial

  $ 2,070     18.1 %   7.9 % $ 2,768     20.1 %   7.5 % $ 291     2.1 %   9.7 %

Commercial mortgage

    1,254     11.0 %   43.2 %   2,011     14.6 %   46.5 %   2,542     18.0 %   43.1 %

Commercial construction

    414     3.6 %   8.2 %   1,809     13.1 %   7.8 %   2,053     14.5 %   7.2 %

Consumer construction

    20     0.2 %   3.1 %   156     1.1 %   2.3 %   817     5.8 %   3.8 %

Residential mortgage

    1,774     15.5 %   18.2 %   2,711     19.6 %   17.3 %   3,032     21.5 %   17.8 %

Consumer

    2,040     17.8 %   19.4 %   2,632     19.1 %   18.6 %   2,417     17.1 %   18.4 %

Unallocated

    3,862     33.8 %       1,714     12.4 %       2,963     21.0 %    
                                       

Total

  $ 11,434     100.0 %   100.0 % $ 13,801     100.0 %   100.0 % $ 14,115     100.0 %   100.0 %
                                       

 

 
  2009   2008  
 
  Amount   Percent
of Total
  Percent
of Loans
to Total
Loans
  Amount   Percent
of Total
  Percent
of Loans
to Total
Loans
 
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Commercial

  $ 817     7.0 %   8.7 % $ 824     4.9 %   9.3 %

Commercial mortgage

    3,336     28.7 %   38.1 %   2,985     17.8 %   32.6 %

Commercial construction

    1,647     14.1 %   11.2 %   2,702     16.1 %   11.2 %

Consumer construction

    293     2.5 %   5.3 %   583     3.5 %   7.1 %

Residential mortgage

    2,062     17.7 %   19.8 %   1,576     9.4 %   14.1 %

Consumer

    882     7.6 %   16.9 %   4,683     27.9 %   25.7 %

Unallocated

    2,602     22.4 %       3,424     20.4 %    
                           

Total

  $ 11,639     100.0 %   100.0 % $ 16,777     100.0 %   100.0 %
                           

        Based upon management's evaluation, provisions are made to maintain the allowance as a best estimate of inherent losses within the portfolio. The allowance for loan losses totaled $11.4 million and $13.8 million as of December 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively. Any changes in the allowance from period to period reflect management's ongoing application of its methodologies to establish the allowance, which, in 2012, included decreases in the allowance for all loan segments. Recent economic conditions have had a broad impact on our loan portfolio as a whole. We increased the unallocated portion of the allowance to reflect changes in relevant environmental factors (see detail above). We reduced the overall level of delinquencies and classified assets and benefitted from a stabilizing economy and real estate market in 2012.

        The provision for loan losses recognized to maintain the allowance was $2.6 million for 2012 compared to $14.3 million for 2011. Our allowance as a percentage of outstanding loans has decreased from 1.97% as of December 31, 2011 to 1.87% as of December 31, 2012 as our overall level of delinquencies and classified assets decreased. We recorded net charge-offs of $4.9 million during 2012 compared to net charge-offs of $14.6 million during 2011. Net charge-offs as compared to average loans outstanding decreased to 0.75% for 2012 compared to 1.94% for 2011. We still recorded a significant amount of charge-offs as a result of our policy to charge off all fair value deficiencies instead of carrying an allocated reserve (except with respect to nonaccrual TDRs). Partial charge-offs of nonaccrual loans decrease the amount of nonperforming and impaired loans, as well as any allocated allowance attributable to that loan. They decrease our allowance for loan losses, as well as our allowance for loan losses to nonperforming loans ratio and our allowance for loan losses to total loans

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ratio. Partial charge-offs increase our net charge-offs to average loans ratio. Total partial charge-offs of nonaccrual loans for 2012 and 2011 amounted to $2.0 million and $7.2 million, respectively. The total amount of nonaccrual loans (prior to charge-offs) for which we recorded partial charge-offs for 2012 and 2011 amounted to $15.1 million and $44.9 million, respectively.

        In addition to the significant amount of charge-offs, transfers to real estate acquired through foreclosure continued to be significant during 2012.

        Although management uses available information to establish the appropriate level of the allowance for loan losses, future additions or reductions to the allowance may be necessary based on estimates that are susceptible to change as a result of changes in economic conditions and other factors. As a result, our allowance for loan losses may not be sufficient to cover actual loan losses, and future provisions for loan losses could materially adversely affect our operating results. In addition, various regulatory agencies, as an integral part of their examination process, periodically review our allowance for loan losses and related methodology. Such agencies may require us to recognize adjustments to the allowance based on their judgments about information available to them at the time of their examination.

        Management believes the allowance for loan losses is adequate as of December 31, 2012 and is sufficient to address the credit losses inherent in the current loan portfolio. We based this determination on several factors:

        Our determination of the appropriate allowance level is based upon a number of assumptions we make about future events, which we believe are reasonable, but which may or may not prove valid. Thus, there can be no assurance that our charge-offs in future periods will not exceed our allowance for loan losses or that we will not need to make additional increases in our allowance for loan losses.

NPAs and Loans 90 Days Past Due and Still Accruing

        Given the volatility of the real estate market, it is very important for us to have current appraisals on our NPAs. Generally, we annually obtain appraisals on NPAs. Previously, for residential and consumer nonperforming loans below $500,000, an alternative valuation method ("AVM") may have been used in lieu of an appraisal. AVMs were obtained from an unrelated independent third party company. The third party valuation utilized a comparative sales based methodology analysis. It also had the ability to handle geographic anomalies, and advanced algorithms which, when coupled with access to multiple data sources, returned accurate and reliable valuation results. The turnaround time for

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these AVMs was generally within a few minutes of our request. As such, the use of AVMs in no way adversely impacted our overall valuation process, nor did it negatively affect the amount or timing of any provisions or charge-offs. In fact, the quick turnaround time of these AVMs helped identify potential losses immediately. There could be circumstances where we might utilize AVMs, along with additional corroborating procedures, again in the future.

        As part of our asset monitoring activities, we maintain a workout committee that meets three times per month. During these workout committee meetings, all NPAs and loan delinquencies are reviewed. We also produce an NPA report which is distributed weekly to senior management and is also discussed and reviewed at the workout committee meetings. This report contains all relevant data on the NPAs, including the latest appraised value and valuation date. Accordingly, these reports identify which assets will require an updated appraisal. As a result, we have not experienced any internal delays in identifying which loans/credits require appraisals. With respect to the ordering process of the appraisals, we have not experienced any delays in turnaround time nor has this been an issue over the past three years. Furthermore, we have not had any delays in turnaround time or variances thereof in our specific loan operating markets.

        NPAs, expressed as a percentage of total assets, totaled 4.10% at December 31, 2012 and 5.25% at December 31, 2011. The ratio of allowance for loan losses to nonperforming loans was 29.7% at December 31, 2012 and 37.6% at December 31, 2011. The decrease in this ratio from 2011 to 2012 was a reflection of the decrease in the amount required for the allowance for loan losses, based partially on increased collateral values. Part of the decrease in nonperforming loans was due to full and partial charge-offs of nonperforming loans that existed at December 31, 2011. We record a significant amount of charge-offs as it is our policy to charge off all fair value deficiencies instead of carrying an allocated reserve (except with respect to nonaccrual TDRs).

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        The distribution of our NPAs and loans greater than 90 days past due and accruing is illustrated in the following table at December 31:

 
  2012   2011   2010   2009   2008  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Nonaccruing loans:

                               

Commercial

  $ 2,110   $ 4,566   $ 1,501   $ 535   $ 603  

Commercial mortgage

    21,269     16,955     26,991     9,773     4,134  

Commercial construction

    4,637     5,949     7,987     10,992     14,544  

Consumer construction

    645     718     1,257     3,815     8,222  

Residential mortgage

    8,826     7,585     11,877     9,333     8,115  

Consumer

    973     905     946     1,351     3,145  
                       

    38,460     36,678     50,559     35,799     38,763  
                       

Real estate acquired through foreclosure:

                               

Commercial

    1,658     83              

Commercial mortgage

    7,386     10,555     3,317     4,112     2,080  

Commercial construction

    3,983     6,174     7,094     9,347     4,909  

Consumer construction

    403     2,768     3,553     4,203     2,826  

Residential mortgage

    4,540     5,655     7,154     2,098     9,079  

Consumer

    88         67     1,870     100  
                       

    18,058     25,235     21,185     21,630     18,994  
                       

Total nonperforming assets

  $ 56,518   $ 61,913   $ 71,744   $ 57,429   $ 57,757  
                       

Loans past-due 90 days or more and accruing:

                               

Commercial

  $   $ 30   $   $ 499   $  

Commercial mortgage

        1,272     1,952     3,886     1,634  

Commercial construction

        2,032     250         210  

Consumer construction

        238             1,587  

Residential mortgage

    222     2,500     776     4,651     3,258  

Consumer

        244         188     2,990  
                       

  $ 222   $ 6,316   $ 2,978   $ 9,224   $ 9,679  
                       

        For information on nonaccruing TDRs, see table under "TDRs" later in this section.

        Nonaccrual loans increased $1.8 million from December 31, 2011 to $38.5 million at December 31, 2012. The commercial loan nonaccrual balance consisted of 10 loans, with the largest balance amounting to $736,000. Five of the commercial loans in nonaccrual status as of December 31, 2012 in the amount of $451,000 were placed in nonaccrual status during 2012. All of the remaining nonaccrual commercial loans were in nonaccrual status as of December 31, 2011. Of the $4.6 million in nonaccrual commercial loans as of December 31, 2011, five loans for $2.5 million were transferred to real estate acquired through foreclosure, one loan in the amount of $92,000 was charged off, and four loans in the amount of $143,000 were paid off during 2012.

        The commercial mortgage loan nonaccrual balance consisted of 36 loans, with the largest balance amounting to $5.1 million. Of the $21.3 million commercial mortgage balance in nonaccrual status as of December 31, 2012, 19 loans totaling $12.3 million were placed on nonaccrual status during 2012. All of the remaining nonaccrual commercial mortgage loans were in nonaccrual status as of December 31, 2011. Of the balance at December 31, 2011, $2.7 million in commercial mortgage loans were transferred to real estate acquired through foreclosure during 2012, $639,000 were charged off, and $4.0 million were paid off.

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        The commercial construction nonaccrual balance consisted of seven loans, with the largest balance amounting to $2.9 million. We placed two commercial construction nonaccrual loans totaling $475,000 in nonaccrual status in 2012. All of the remaining nonaccrual commercial construction loans were in nonaccrual status as of December 31, 2011. Of the $5.9 million in commercial construction loans in nonaccrual status as of December 31, 2011, $317,000 were paid off, $985,000 were charged off, and $293,000 were transferred to real estate acquired through foreclosure during 2012.

        The consumer construction nonaccrual balance consisted of four loans, two of which were placed in nonaccrual status during 2012. Of the $718,000 in consumer construction loans in nonaccrual status at December 31, 2011, we transferred two loans totaling $332,000 to real estate acquired through foreclosure and one loan in the amount of $128,000 was paid off.

        The residential mortgage nonaccrual balance consisted of 32 loans, with the largest balance amounting to $810,000. We placed $4.6 million of these loans in nonaccrual status during 2012. Of the $7.6 million balance of nonaccrual residential mortgage loans at December 31, 2011, we transferred $1.9 million to real estate acquired through foreclosure, received pay offs of $573,000, returned $256,000 to accrual status, and charged off $420,000.

        The consumer loan nonaccrual balance consisted of 11 loans, nine of which were placed in nonaccrual status during 2012. These loans are well secured and we have determined that they do not require charge off as of December 31, 2012.

        The interest which would have been recorded on nonaccrual loans if those loans had been performing in accordance with their contractual terms was approximately $1.7 million, $2.2 million, and $3.6 million in 2012, 2011, and 2010, respectively. The actual interest income recorded on those loans in 2012, 2011, and 2010 was approximately $552,000, $827,000, and $1.6 million, respectively.

        Real estate acquired through foreclosure decreased $7.2 million when compared to December 31, 2011. The activity in our real estate acquired through foreclosure was as follows for the years ended December 31:

 
  2012   2011   2010  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Balance at beginning of period

  $ 25,235   $ 21,185   $ 21,630  

Real estate acquired in satisfaction of loans

    7,565     18,699     21,622  

Write-downs and losses on real estate acquired through foreclosure

    (4,032 )   (6,976 )   (6,334 )

Proceeds from sales of real estate acquired through foreclosure

    (10,710 )   (8,802 )   (15,733 )

Additional funds disbursed on real estate acquired through foreclosure

        1,754      

Other

        (625 )    
               

Balance at end of period

  $ 18,058   $ 25,235   $ 21,185  
               

        Loans 90 days delinquent and accruing, which are loans that are well secured and in the process of collection, decreased from $6.3 million at December 31, 2011 to $222,000 as of December 31, 2012. The balance at December 31, 2012 consists of one residential mortgage loan.

        Not all of the loans newly classified as nonaccrual since December 31, 2011 required impairment reserves, as some of the loans' collateral had estimated fair values greater than the carrying amount of the loan or the loan has been written down to its estimated fair value. Additionally, in general, we charge off all impairment amounts immediately for all loans that are not TDRs.

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TDRs

        In situations where, for economic or legal reasons related to a borrower's financial difficulties, management may grant a concession for other than an insignificant period of time to the borrower that would not otherwise be considered, the related loan is classified as a TDR. Such concessions could include reductions in the interest rate, payment extensions, forgiveness of principal, forbearance, or other actions. These loans are excluded from pooled loss forecasts and a separate allocated portion of the allowance is provided under the accounting guidance for loan impairment. At the time that a loan is modified, management evaluates any possible impairment based on the present value of expected future cash flows, discounted at the contractual interest rate of the original loan agreement, except when the sole remaining source of repayment for the loan is the liquidation of the collateral. In these cases, we use the current fair value of the collateral, less selling costs, instead of discounted cash flows. Any impairment amount is then set up as an allocated portion of the allowance.

        The composition of our TDRs is illustrated in the following table at December 31:

 
  2012   2011   2010   2009   2008  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Commercial:

                               

Nonaccrual

  $   $ 22   $   $   $  

90 days or more and accruing

  $   $   $   $   $  

< 90 days past due/current

  $ 7,708   $ 400   $   $ 2,850   $  
                       

    7,708     422         2,850      
                       

Commercial mortgage:

                               

Nonaccrual

    6,394     907     1,490     810      

90 days or more and accruing

                     

< 90 days past due/current

    13,049     9,389     2,856     799     1,469  
                       

    19,443     10,296     4,346     1,609     1,469  
                       

Commercial construction:

                               

Nonaccrual

    101     103     353     203      

90 days or more and accruing

                     

< 90 days past due/current

    7,055     5,118     5,287     4,876      
                       

    7,156     5,221     5,640     5,079      
                       

Residential mortgage:

                               

Nonaccrual

    2,019     1,473         1,197     2,361  

90 days or more and accruing

        2,164     450     638     1,519  

< 90 days past due/current

    9,638     8,271     12,697     3,885     7,881  
                       

    11,657     11,908     13,147     5,720     11,761  
                       

Consumer:

                               

Nonaccrual

            923          

90 days or more and accruing

                     

< 90 days past due/current

            121          
                       

            1,044          
                       

Totals:

                               

Nonaccrual

  $ 8,514   $ 2,505   $ 2,766   $ 2,210   $ 2,361  

90 days or more and accruing

  $   $ 2,164   $ 450   $ 638   $ 1,519  

< 90 days past due/current

  $ 37,450   $ 23,178   $ 20,961   $ 12,410   $ 9,350  
                       

  $ 45,964   $ 27,847   $ 24,177   $ 15,258   $ 13,230  
                       

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        The interest income which would have been recorded on TDRs if those loans had been performing in accordance with their original contractual terms was approximately $1.8 million in 2012, $1.2 million in 2011, and $2.1 million in 2010 and the actual interest income recorded on these loans in 2012, 2011, and 2010 was approximately $1.0 million, $713,000, and $915,000, respectively.

        The following table shows the breakdown of loans modified during the years ended December 31:

 
  2012   2011  
 
  Number of
Modifications
  Recorded
Investment
Prior to
Modification
  Recorded
Investment
After
Modification
  Number of
Modifications
  Recorded
Investment
Prior to
Modification
  Recorded
Investment
After
Modification
 
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Commercial

    3   $ 7,336   $ 7,336     4   $ 699   $ 424  

Commercial mortgage

    10     4,668     4,676     10     7,821     7,821  

Commercial construction

    3     7,427     7,427              

Residential mortgage

    1     863     863     1     566     579  
                           

    17   $ 20,294   $ 20,302     15   $ 9,086   $ 8,824  
                           

 

 
  2010  
 
  Number of
Modifications
  Recorded
Investment
Prior to
Modification
  Recorded
Investment
After
Modification
 
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Commercial mortgage

    3   $ 3,087   $ 3,247  

Commercial construction

    6     5,177     5,177  

Residential mortgage

    17     11,027     11,066  

Home equity and 2nd mortgage

    10     1,148     1,148  
               

    36   $ 20,439   $ 20,638  
               

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Impaired Loans

        The following tables show the breakout of impaired loans by class at December 31:

 
  2012  
 
  Recorded
Investment
  Unpaid
Principal
Balance
  Related
Allowance
  Average
Recorded
Investment
  Interest
Income
Recognized
  Charge-Offs  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

With no related allowance:

                                     

Commercial

  $ 2,535   $ 2,535   $   $ 3,623   $ 32   $ 360  

Commercial mortgage

  $ 32,561   $ 32,561   $   $ 26,330   $ 491   $ 933  

Commercial construction

  $ 11,692   $ 11,692   $   $ 12,811   $ 86   $ 409  

Consumer construction

  $ 645   $ 645   $   $ 652   $ 27   $ 7  

Residential mortgage

  $ 11,776   $ 11,776   $   $ 9,942   $ 349   $ 2,018  

Home equity & 2nd mortgage

  $ 1,235   $ 1,235   $   $ 1,039   $ 5   $ 2,169  

Other consumer

  $ 12   $ 12   $   $ 8   $   $  

With a related allowance:

                                     

Commercial

    7,150     7,283     133     2,950     103      

Commercial mortgage

    1,734     1,757     23     3,656     26      

Commercial construction

                         

Consumer construction

                         

Residential mortgage

    6,243     6,414     171     7,939     275     381  

Home equity & 2nd mortgage

                         

Other consumer

                         

Totals:

                                     

Commercial

  $ 9,685   $ 9,818   $ 133   $ 6,573   $ 135   $ 360  

Commercial mortgage

  $ 34,295   $ 34,318   $ 23   $ 29,986   $ 517   $ 933  

Commercial construction

  $ 11,692   $ 11,692   $   $ 12,811   $ 86   $ 409  

Consumer construction

  $ 645   $ 645   $   $ 652   $ 27   $ 7  

Residential mortgage

  $ 18,019   $ 18,190   $ 171   $ 17,881   $ 624   $ 2,399  

Home equity & 2nd mortgage

  $ 1,235   $ 1,235   $   $ 1,039   $ 5   $ 2,169  

Other consumer

  $ 12   $ 12   $   $ 8   $   $  

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  2011  
 
  Recorded
Investment
  Unpaid
Principal
Balance
  Related
Allowance
  Average
Recorded
Investment
  Interest
Income
Recognized
  Charge-Offs  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

With no related allowance:

                                     

Commercial

  $ 4,804   $ 4,804   $   $ 2,719   $ 155   $ 5,484  

Commercial mortgage

  $ 21,039   $ 21,039   $   $ 20,966   $ 483   $ 3,207  

Commercial construction

  $ 11,066   $ 11,066   $   $ 12,114   $ 67   $ 730  

Consumer construction

  $ 718   $ 718   $   $ 842   $ 32   $ 43  

Residential mortgage

  $ 8,723   $ 8,723   $   $ 10,066   $ 260   $ 1,780  

Home equity & 2nd mortgage

  $ 905   $ 905   $   $ 913   $ 18   $ 2,868  

Other consumer

  $   $   $   $ 134   $   $  

With a related allowance:

                                     

Commercial

    157     161     4     63     2      

Commercial mortgage

    5,249     5,306     57     4,150     73     128  

Commercial construction

                266          

Consumer construction

                112          

Residential mortgage

    9,075     9,297     222     11,526     378     940  

Home equity & 2nd mortgage

                14          

Other consumer

                         

Totals:

                                     

Commercial

  $ 4,961   $ 4,965   $ 4   $ 2,782   $ 157   $ 5,484  

Commercial mortgage

  $ 26,288   $ 26,345   $ 57   $ 25,116   $ 556   $ 3,335  

Commercial construction

  $ 11,066   $ 11,066   $   $ 12,380   $ 67   $ 730  

Consumer construction

  $ 718   $ 718   $   $ 954   $ 32   $ 43  

Residential mortgage

  $ 17,798   $ 18,020   $ 222   $ 21,592   $ 638   $ 2,720  

Home equity & 2nd mortgage

  $ 905   $ 905   $   $ 927   $ 18   $ 2,868  

Other consumer

  $   $   $   $ 134   $   $  

        Not all of the loans newly classified as impaired since December 31, 2011 required impairment reserves, as some of the loans' collateral had estimated fair values greater than the carrying amount of the loan or the loan has been written down to its estimated fair value. Additionally, in general, we charge off all impairment amounts immediately for all loans that are not TDRs.

Deposits

        We use deposits as the primary source of funding of our loans. We offer individuals and businesses a wide variety of deposit accounts. These accounts include checking, NOW, savings, money market, and certificates of deposit (time deposits) and are obtained primarily from communities we serve.

        Deposits totaled $1.2 billion at December 31, 2012, increasing $172.1 million, or 17.0%, from the December 31, 2011 level. We experienced significant increases in all deposit categories, with the exception of NOW accounts, which decreased $4.7 million. Increases in savings and money market accounts were the result of successful marketing campaigns. The increase in time deposits was primarily rate driven, with a significant amount of the increase incurred in our nonbrokered national time deposit campaign, which is a program whereby the Bank utilizes several nonbrokered rate listing services to provide incremental funding as needed. We pay an annual subscription fee for the privilege of posting rates on their websites. The subscription-based services allow the Bank to place or receive funds from other subscribers. Requests to invest are placed through the listing website and the account is funded by wire. At the present time, only financial institutions are allowed to place funds with the Bank.

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        The following table details the average amount and the average rate paid for each category of deposits for the years ended December 31:

 
  2012   2011   2010  
 
  Average
Balance
  Average
Rate
  Average
Balance
  Average
Rate
  Average
Balance
  Average
Rate
 
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

NOW

  $ 5,567     0.83 % $ 6,182     0.27 % $ 7,405     0.63 %

Savings

    58,453     0.43 %   57,450     0.19 %   56,271     0.27 %

Money market

    138,764     0.55 %   127,584     0.56 %   140,067     0.62 %

Time

    753,580     1.45 %   743,309     1.99 %   823,248     2.40 %
                                 

Total interest-bearing deposits

    956,364     1.25 %   934,525     1.68 %   1,026,991     2.03 %

Noninterest-bearing demand deposits

    101,727           103,201           107,119        
                                 

Total deposits

  $ 1,058,091     1.13 % $ 1,037,726     1.51 % $ 1,134,110     1.84 %
                                 

        The following table provides the maturities of certificates of deposit in amounts of $100,000 or more at December 31:

 
  2012   2011  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Maturing in:

             

3 months or less

  $ 62,327   $ 62,239  

Over 3 months through 6 months

    53,486     61,249  

Over 6 months through 12 months

    269,029     188,436  

Over 12 months

    243,547     151,942  
           

  $ 628,389   $ 463,866  
           

        Core deposits represent deposits which we believe will not be affected by changes in interest rates and, therefore, will be retained regardless of the movement of interest rates. We consider our core deposits to be all noninterest-bearing, NOW, money market's less than $100,000, and saving deposits, as well as all time deposits less than $100,000 that mature in greater than one year. At December 31, 2012 and 2011, our core deposits were $358.9 million and $361.2 million, respectively. The remainder of our deposits could be susceptible to attrition due to interest rate movements.

Borrowings

        Our borrowings consist of short-term promissory notes issued to certain qualified investors, short-term and long-term advances from the FHLB, and a mortgage loan at December 31, 2012 and 2011. Our short-term promissory notes are in the form of commercial paper, which reprice daily and have maturities of 270 days or less. Our advances from the FHLB may be in the form of short-term or long-term obligations. Short-term advances have maturities for one year or less and may contain prepayment penalties. Long-term borrowings through the FHLB have original maturities up to 15 years and generally contain prepayment penalties.

        The FHLB advances are available under a specific collateral pledge and security agreement, which requires that we maintain collateral for all of our borrowings equal to 125% of advances. We may pledge as collateral specific first- and second-lien mortgage loans or commercial mortgages up to 10% of the Bank's total assets. Long-term FHLB advances are fixed-rate instruments with various call provisions. Generally, short-term advances are in the form of overnight borrowings with rates changing daily. At December 31, 2012, our total available credit line with the FHLB was $129.4 million. Our outstanding FHLB advance balance at December 31, 2012 and 2011 was $117.0 million and $111.0 million, respectively.

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        Long-term borrowings, which totaled $73.5 million and $73.7 million at December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively, consist of long-term advances from the FHLB and a mortgage loan on our former headquarters building. We held $65.0 million in long-term FHLB advances at both December 31, 2012 and 2011. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the balance on the mortgage loan was $8.5 million and $8.7 million, respectively.

        Short-term borrowings consist of short-term promissory notes and short-term advances from the FHLB. These borrowings increased from $48.0 million at December 31, 2011 to $53.5 million at December 31, 2012. We held $52.0 million and $46.0 million in short-term FHLB advances at December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

        In the past, to further our funding and capital needs, we raised capital by issuing Trust Preferred Securities through statutory trusts (the "Trusts"), which are wholly-owned by First Mariner. The Trusts used the proceeds from the sales of the Trust Preferred Securities, combined with First Mariner's equity investment in these Trusts, to purchase subordinated deferrable interest debentures from First Mariner. The debentures are the sole assets of the Trusts. Aggregate debentures outstanding as of both December 31, 2012 and 2011 totaled $52.1 million.

        The Trust Preferred Securities are mandatorily redeemable, in whole or in part, upon repayment of their underlying subordinated debentures at their respective maturities or their earlier redemption date at our option. All redemption dates have passed and we have not opted to redeem any of the junior subordinated deferrable interest debentures.

        In 2009, we elected to defer interest payments on the debentures. This deferral is permitted by the terms of the debentures and does not constitute an event of default thereunder. Interest on the debentures and dividends on the related Trust Preferred Securities continue to accrue and will have to be paid in full prior to the expiration of the deferral period. The total deferral period may not exceed 20 consecutive quarters and expires with the last quarter of 2013.

        First Mariner has fully and unconditionally guaranteed all of the obligations of the Trusts.

        Under applicable regulatory guidelines, a portion of the Trust Preferred Securities may qualify as Tier I capital, and the remaining portion may qualify as Tier II capital, with certain limitations. At December 31, 2012, none of our outstanding Trust Preferred Securities qualify as either Tier I or Tier II capital due to limitations.

        See Notes 8 and 9 to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8 of Part II of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further details about our borrowings.

Capital Resources

        Stockholders' deficit decreased $17.0 million in 2012 to a deficit of $8.4 million from a deficit of $25.4 million as of December 31, 2011.

        Common stock and additional paid-in-capital decreased by $253,000 due primarily to the change in the value of the outstanding warrants. We did not repurchase any common stock during 2012, nor was any stock issued through the employee stock purchase plan. Accumulated other comprehensive loss, which is derived from the fair value calculations for AFS securities, decreased by $1.2 million. Retained deficit decreased by the net income of $16.1 million for 2012.

        Banking regulatory authorities have implemented strict capital guidelines directly related to the credit risk associated with an institution's assets. Banks and bank holding companies are required to maintain capital levels based on their "risk-adjusted" assets so that categories of assets with higher "defined" credit risks will require more capital support than assets with lower risk. Additionally, capital must be maintained to support certain off-balance sheet instruments.

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        Capital is classified as Tier I capital (common stockholders' (deficit) less certain intangible assets plus a portion of the Trust Preferred Securities) and Total Capital (Tier I plus the allowed portion of the allowance for loan losses plus any off-balance sheet reserves and the allowable portion of Trust Preferred Securities not included in Tier I capital). Minimum required levels must at least equal 4% for Tier I capital and 8% for Total Capital. In addition, institutions must maintain a minimum 4% leverage capital ratio (Tier I capital to average quarterly assets).

        We regularly monitor the Company's capital adequacy ratios to assure that the Bank meets its regulatory capital requirements. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Bank was "undercapitalized" and "significantly undercapitalized," respectively, under the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action, although, as of December 31, 2012, the Bank's Tier I capital ratio met minimal adequacy requirements.

        The regulatory capital ratios are shown below at December 31:

 
  2012   2011   2010   Minimum
Requirements
for Capital
Adequacy Purposes
  To be Well
Capitalized Under
Prompt Corrective
Action Provision
 

Regulatory capital ratios:

                               

Leverage:

                               

Consolidated

    (0.5 )%   (1.9 )%   0.7 %   4.0 %   5.0 %

Bank

    3.8 %   3.0 %   4.7 %   4.0 %   5.0 %

Tier I capital to risk-weighted assets:

                               

Consolidated

    (0.8 )%   (2.6 )%   1.0 %   4.0 %   6.0 %

Bank

    6.1 %   4.2 %   6.8 %   4.0 %   6.0 %

Total capital to risk-weighted assets:

                               

Consolidated

    (0.8 )%   (2.6 )%   2.1 %   8.0 %   10.0 %

Bank

    7.3 %   5.5 %   8.0 %   8.0 %   10.0 %

        On September 18, 2009, the Bank entered into the September Order with the FDIC and the Commissioner, which directs the Bank to (i) increase its capitalization, (ii) improve earnings, (iii) reduce nonperforming loans, (iv) strengthen management policies and practices, and (v) reduce reliance on noncore funding. The September Order required the Bank to adopt a plan to achieve and maintain a leverage capital ratio of at least 7.5% and a total risk-based capital ratio of at least 11% by June 30, 2010. We did not meet the requirements at June 30, 2010, December 31, 2010, December 31, 2011, or December 31, 2012. The failure to achieve these capital requirements could result in further action by our regulators.

        As part of the September Order, within 30 days after the end of each calendar year, the Bank must submit an annual budget and profit plan and a plan that takes into account the Bank's pricing structure, the Bank's cost of funds and how this can be reduced, and the level of provision expense for adversely classified loans. To address reliance on noncore funding, the Bank has adopted and submitted a liquidity plan to reduce the Bank's reliance on noncore funding, wholesale funding sources, and high-cost rate-sensitive deposits. While the September Order is in effect, the Bank may not pay dividends or management fees without the FDIC's prior consent, may not accept, renew, or roll over any brokered deposits, or pay effective yields on deposits that are greater than those generally paid in its markets.

        First Mariner is also a party to the FRB Agreements, which, require it to: (i) develop and implement a strategic business plan that includes (a) actions that will be taken to improve our operating performance and reduce the level of parent company leverage, (b) a comprehensive budget and an expanded budget review process, (c) a description of the operating assumptions that form the basis for major projected income and expense components and provisions needed to maintain an

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adequate loan loss reserve, and (d) a capital plan incorporating all capital needs, risks, and regulatory guidelines; and (ii) submit plans to improve enterprise-wide risk management and effectiveness of internal audit programs. First Mariner has also agreed to provide the FRB with advance notice of any significant capital transactions. The FRB Agreements also prohibit First Mariner and the Bank from taking any of the following actions without the FRB's prior written approval: (i) declaring or paying any dividends; (ii) taking dividends from the Bank; (iii) making any distributions of interest, principal, or other sums on First Mariner's subordinated debentures or trust preferred securities; (iv) incurring, increasing, or guaranteeing any debt; or (v) repurchasing or redeeming any shares of its stock. To satisfy the FRB's minimum capital requirements, First Mariner's consolidated leverage, Tier I capital to risk-weighted assets, and total capital to risk-weighted assets ratios at each quarter end must be at least 4.0%, 4.0%, and 8.0%, respectively. At December 31, 2012, those capital ratios were (0.5)%, (0.8)%, and (0.8)%, respectively, which were not in compliance with the minimum requirements. The failure to achieve these capital requirements could result in further action by our regulators.

        The foregoing will subject us to increased regulatory scrutiny and may have an adverse impact on our business operations. Failure to comply with the provisions of these regulatory requirements may result in more restrictive actions from our regulators, including more severe and restrictive enforcement actions.

Liquidity

        Liquidity describes our ability to meet financial obligations, including lending commitments and contingencies, which arise during the normal course of business. Liquidity is primarily needed to meet the borrowing and deposit withdrawal requirements of our customers, to fund the operations of our mortgage-banking business, as well as to meet current and planned expenditures. These cash requirements are met on a daily basis through the inflow of deposit funds, the maintenance of short-term overnight investments, maturities and calls in our securities portfolio, and available lines of credit with the FHLB, which requires pledged collateral. Fluctuations in deposit and short-term borrowing balances may be influenced by the interest rates paid, general consumer confidence, and the overall economic environment. There can be no assurances that deposit withdrawals and loan fundings will not exceed all available sources of liquidity on a short-term basis. Such a situation would have an adverse effect on our ability to originate new loans and maintain reasonable loan and deposit interest rates, which would negatively impact earnings.

        The Bank's liquidity is represented by its cash and cash equivalents (which are cash on hand or amounts due from financial institutions, federal funds sold, money market mutual funds, and interest bearing deposits) and AFS securities, the sources of which are deposit accounts and borrowings. The level of liquidity is dependent on the Bank's operating, financing, and investing activities at any given time. We attempt to primarily rely on core deposits from customers to provide stable and cost-effective sources of funding to support our loan growth. We also seek to augment such deposits with longer term and higher yielding certificates of deposit. Cash and cash equivalents, which totaled $185.8 million at December 31, 2012, have immediate availability to meet our short-term funding needs. Our entire securities portfolio is classified as AFS, is highly marketable (excluding our holdings of pooled trust preferred securities), and is available to meet our liquidity needs. Additional sources of liquidity include LHFS, which totaled $404.3 million at December 31, 2012, are committed to be sold into the secondary market, and generally are funded within 60 days and our residential real estate portfolio, which includes loans that are underwritten to secondary market criteria. Additionally, our residential construction loan portfolio provides a source of liquidity as construction periods generally range from 9-12 months, and these loans are subsequently refinanced with permanent first-lien mortgages and sold into the secondary market. We may also, from time to time, sell performing commercial or consumer loans to enhance our liquidity position. Our loan to deposit ratio stood at 51.4% at December 31, 2012 and 69.2% at December 31, 2011.

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        The borrowing requirements of customers include commitments to extend credit and the unused portion of lines of credit (collectively "commitments"), which totaled $487.5 million at December 31, 2012. Historically, many of the commitments expire without being fully drawn; therefore, the total commitment amounts do not necessarily represent future cash requirements. Commitments for real estate development and construction, which totaled $11.4 million, are generally short-term in nature, satisfying cash requirements with principal repayments as construction properties financed are generally repaid with permanent financing. Available credit lines represent the unused portion of credit previously extended and available to the customer as long as there is no violation of material contractual conditions. Commitments to extend credit for residential mortgage loans of $404.6 million at December 31, 2012 generally expire within 60 days. Commercial commitments to extend credit and unused lines of credit of $3.8 million at December 31, 2012 generally do not extend for more than 12 months. Consumer commitments to extend credit and unused lines of credit of $11.0 million at December 31, 2012 are generally open ended. At December 31, 2012, available home equity lines totaled $56.7 million. Home equity credit lines generally extend for a period of 10 years.

        Capital expenditures for various branch locations and equipment can be a significant use of liquidity. As of December 31, 2012, we plan on expending approximately $1.5 million on our premises and equipment over the next 12 months.

        Customer withdrawals are also a principal use of liquidity, but are generally mitigated by growth in customer funding sources, such as deposits and short-term borrowings. Such balances may fluctuate up and down in any given period.

        We also have the ability to utilize established credit lines with the FHLB and the FRB as additional sources of liquidity. To utilize the vast majority of our credit lines, we must pledge certain loans and/or securities before advances can be obtained.

        We are not permitted to purchase brokered deposits without first obtaining a regulatory waiver. We are also required to comply with restrictions on deposit rates that we may offer. These factors could significantly affect our ability to fund normal operations. Our ability to acquire deposits or borrow could also be impaired by factors that are not specific to us, such as a severe disruption of the financial markets or negative views and expectations about the prospects for the financial services industry as a whole as the recent turmoil faced by banking organizations in the domestic and worldwide credit markets deteriorates. At December 31, 2012, management considered the Bank's liquidity level to be sufficient for the purposes of meeting the Bank's cash flow requirements.

        First Mariner Bancorp is a separate entity and apart from First Mariner Bank and must provide for its own liquidity. In addition to its operating expenses, First Mariner Bancorp is responsible for the payment of any dividends that may be declared for its shareholders and interest and principal on outstanding debt. A significant amount of First Mariner Bancorp's revenues are obtained from subsidiary service fees and dividends. Payment of such dividends to First Mariner Bancorp by First Mariner Bank is limited under Maryland law. As noted earlier, First Mariner and its bank subsidiary have entered into agreements with the FRB, FDIC, and the Commissioner that, among other things, require First Mariner and the Bank to obtain the prior approval of regulators before paying a dividend or otherwise making a distribution on stock. In addition, First Mariner elected to defer regularly scheduled quarterly interest payments on its junior subordinated debentures issued in connection with its Trust Preferred Securities offerings. First Mariner is prohibited from paying any dividends or making any other distribution on its common stock for so long as interest payments are being deferred.

        We are not aware of any undisclosed known trends, demands, commitments, or uncertainties that are reasonably likely to result in material changes in our liquidity.

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Interest Rate Sensitivity

        Interest rate sensitivity is an important factor in the management of the composition and maturity configurations of our earning assets and our funding sources. The primary objective of our asset/liability management is to ensure the steady growth of our primary earnings component, net interest income. Our net interest income can fluctuate with significant interest rate movements. We may attempt to structure the statement of financial condition so that repricing opportunities exist for both assets and liabilities in roughly equivalent amounts at approximately the same time intervals. However, imbalances in these repricing opportunities at any point in time may be appropriate to mitigate risks from fee income subject to interest rate risk, such as mortgage-banking activities.

        The measurement of our interest rate sensitivity, or "gap," is one of the techniques used in asset/liability management. Interest sensitive gap is the dollar difference between our assets and liabilities which are subject to interest rate pricing within a given time period, including both floating-rate or adjustable-rate instruments and instruments which are approaching maturity. More assets repricing or maturing than liabilities over a given time period is considered asset-sensitive and is reflected as a positive gap, and more liabilities repricing or maturing than assets over a given time period is considered liability-sensitive and is reflected as negative gap. An asset-sensitive position (i.e., a positive gap) will generally enhance earnings in a rising interest rate environment and will negatively impact earnings in a falling interest rate environment, while a liability-sensitive position (i.e., a negative gap) will generally enhance earnings in a falling interest rate environment and negatively impact earnings in a rising interest rate environment. Fluctuations in interest rates are not predictable or controllable.

        Our management and our board of directors oversee the asset/liability management function and meet periodically to monitor and manage the statement of financial condition, control interest rate exposure, and evaluate pricing strategies. We evaluate the asset mix of the statement of financial condition continually in terms of several variables: yield, credit quality, funding sources, and liquidity. Our management of the liability mix of the statement of financial condition focuses on expanding our various funding sources and promotion of deposit products with desirable repricing or maturity characteristics.

        In theory, we can diminish interest rate risk through maintaining a nominal level of interest rate sensitivity. In practice, this is made difficult by a number of factors including cyclical variation in loan demand, different impacts on our interest-sensitive assets and liabilities when interest rates change, and the availability of our funding sources. Accordingly, we strive to manage the interest rate sensitivity gap by adjusting the maturity of and establishing rates on the earning-asset portfolio and certain interest-bearing liabilities commensurate with our expectations relative to market interest rates. Additionally, we may employ the use of off-balance sheet instruments, such as interest rate swaps or caps, to manage our exposure to interest rate movements. Generally, we attempt to maintain a balance between rate-sensitive assets and liabilities that is appropriate to minimize our overall interest rate risk, not just our net interest margin.

        Our interest rate sensitivity position as of December 31, 2012 is presented in the following table. Our assets and liabilities are scheduled based on maturity or repricing data except for mortgage loans and mortgage-backed securities that are based on prevailing prepayment assumptions and core deposits which are based on core deposit studies done for banks in the Mid-Atlantic region. These assumptions are validated periodically by management. The difference between our rate-sensitive assets and rate-sensitive liabilities, or the interest rate sensitivity gap, is shown at the bottom of the table. As of

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December 31, 2012, we had a one-year cumulative positive gap of $5.0 million compared to a one-year cumulative negative gap of $23.0 million at December 31, 2011.

 
  180 days
or less
  181 days -
one year
  One - five
years
  > 5 years
or non-
sensitive
  Total  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Interest-earning assets:

                               

Interest-bearing deposits

  $ 16,556   $   $   $   $ 16,556  

AFS Securities

    18,393     6,587     32,061     635     57,676  

Restricted stock investments

    7,099                 7,099  

LHFS

    404,289                 404,289  

Loans

    312,229     69,941     156,561     71,665     610,396  
                       

Total interest-earning assets

  $ 758,566   $ 76,528   $ 188,622   $ 72,300   $ 1,096,016  
                       

Interest-bearing liabilities:

                               

NOW

  $ 337   $ 338   $ 2,734   $ 1,272   $ 4,681  

Savings

    7,969     4,570     36,682     11,508     60,729  

Money market

    114,226     3,112     24,950     11,468     153,756  

Certificates of deposit

    255,500     313,463     288,735         857,698  

Borrowings and junior subordinated debentures

    130,534         40,000     8,515     179,049  
                       

Total interest-bearing liabilities

  $ 508,566   $ 321,483   $ 393,101   $ 32,763   $ 1,255,913  
                       

Interest rate sensitive gap position:

                               

Period

  $ 250,000   $ (244,955 ) $ (204,479 ) $ 39,537        

% of assets

    18.15 %   (17.78 )%   (14.84 )%   2.87 %      

Cumulative

  $ 250,000   $ 5,045   $ (199,434 ) $ (159,897 )      

% of assets

    18.15 %   0.36 %   (14.48 )%   (11.61 )%      

Cumulative risk sensitive assets to risk sensitive liabilities

    149.16 %   100.61 %   83.70 %   87.27 %      

        While we monitor interest rate sensitivity gap reports, we primarily test our interest rate sensitivity through the deployment of simulation analysis. We use earnings simulation models to estimate what effect specific interest rate changes would have on our net interest income. Simulation analysis provides us with a more rigorous and dynamic measure of interest sensitivity. Changes in prepayments have been included where changes in behavior patterns are assumed to be significant to the simulation, particularly mortgage related assets. Call features on certain securities and borrowings are based on their call probability in view of the projected rate change, and pricing features such as interest rate floors are incorporated. We attempt to structure our asset and liability management strategies to mitigate the impact on net interest income by changes in market interest rates. However, there can be no assurance that we will be able to manage interest rate risk so as to avoid significant adverse effects on net interest income. At December 31, 2012, the simulation model provided the following profile of our interest rate risk measured over a one-year time horizon, assuming a parallel shift in a yield curve based off the U.S. dollar forward swap curve adjusted for certain pricing assumptions:

 
  Immediate Rate
Change
 
 
  +200BP   -200BP  

Net interest income

    5.85 %   (13.16 )%

        Both of the above tools used to assess interest rate risk have strengths and weaknesses. Because the gap analysis reflects a static position at a single point in time, it is limited in quantifying the total

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impact of market rate changes which do not affect all earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities equally or simultaneously. In addition, gap reports depict the existing structure, excluding exposure arising from new business. While the simulation process is a powerful tool in analyzing interest rate sensitivity, many of the assumptions used in the process are highly qualitative and subjective, and are subject to the risk that past historical activity may not generate accurate predictions of the future. The model also assumes parallel movements in interest rates, which means both short-term and long-term rates will change equally. Nonparallel changes in interest rates (short-term rates changing differently from long-term rates) could result in significant differences in projected income amounts when compared to parallel tests. Both measurement tools taken together, however, provide an effective evaluation of our exposure to changes in interest rates, enabling management to better control the volatility of earnings.

        We are party to mortgage rate lock commitments to fund mortgage loans at interest rates previously agreed (locked) by both us and the borrower for specified periods of time. When the borrower locks an interest rate, we effectively extend a put option to the borrower, whereby the borrower is not obligated to enter into the loan agreement, but we must honor the interest rate for the specified time period. We are exposed to interest rate risk during the accumulation of IRLCs and loans prior to sale. We utilize forward sales commitments to economically hedge the changes in fair value of the loan due to changes in market interest rates.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

        We enter into off-balance sheet arrangements in the normal course of business. These arrangements consist primarily of commitments to extend credit, lines of credit, and letters of credit. In addition, the Company has certain operating lease obligations.

Credit Commitments

        Credit commitments are agreements to lend to a customer as long as there is no violation of any condition to the contract. Loan commitments generally have interest rates fixed at current market amounts, fixed expiration dates, and may require payment of a fee. Lines of credit generally have variable interest rates. Such lines do not represent future cash requirements because it is unlikely that all customers will draw upon their lines in full at any time. Letters of credit are commitments issued to guarantee the performance of a customer to a third party.

        Our exposure to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by the borrower is the contract amount of the commitment. Loan commitments, lines of credit, and letters of credit are made on the same terms, including collateral, as outstanding loans. We are not aware of any accounting loss we would incur by funding our commitments.

        See detailed information on credit commitments above under "Liquidity."

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Contractual Obligations

        First Mariner has certain obligations to make future payments under contract. At December 31, 2012, the aggregate contractual obligations and commitments are:

 
  Payments Due by Period  
 
  Total   Less than
one year
  Over
1 - 3 Years
  Over
3 - 5 years
  After
5 years
 
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Certificates of deposit

  $ 857,698   $ 525,915   $ 300,668   $ 31,115   $  

Borrowings and junior subordinated debentures

    179,049     53,466     40,000         85,583  

Annual rental commitments under noncancelable leases

    16,319     4,508     8,172     3,207     432  
                       

  $ 1,053,066   $ 583,889   $ 348,840   $ 34,322   $ 86,015  
                       

Derivatives

        We maintain and account for derivatives, in the form of IRLCs and forward sales commitments, in accordance with FASB guidance on accounting for derivative instruments and hedging activities. We recognize gains and losses on IRLCs and forward sales commitments on the loan pipeline through mortgage-banking revenue in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.

        The Bank, through First Mariner Mortgage, enters into IRLCs, under which we originate residential mortgage loans with interest rates determined prior to funding. IRLCs on mortgage loans that we intend to sell in the secondary market are considered derivatives. The period of time between issuance of a loan commitment and closing and sale of the loan generally ranges from 14 days to 60 days. For these IRLCs, we protect the Company from changes in interest rates through the use of forward sales of to be issued ("TBA") mortgage-backed securities.

        We are exposed to price risk from the time a mortgage loan closes until the time the loan is sold. To manage this risk, we also utilize forward sales of TBA mortgage-backed securities. During the period of the rate lock commitment and from the time a loan is closed with the borrowers and sold to investors, we remain exposed to basis (execution, timing, and/or volatility) risk in that the changes in value of our forward sales commitments may not equal or completely offset the changes in value of the rate commitments. This can result due to changes in the market demand for our mortgage loans brought about by supply and demand considerations and perceptions about credit risk relative to the agency securities. We also mitigate counterparty risk by entering into commitments with proven counterparties and pre-approved financial intermediaries.

        The market value of IRLCs is not readily ascertainable with precision because they are not actively traded in stand-alone markets. The Bank determines the fair value of IRLCs by measuring the change in the value of the underlying asset, while taking into consideration the probability that the IRLCs will close.

        Information pertaining to the carrying amounts of our derivative financial instruments follows as of December 31:

 
  2012   2011  
 
  Notional
Amount
  Estimated
Fair Value
  Notional
Amount
  Estimated
Fair Value
 
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

IRLCs

  $ 404,645   $ 410,192   $ 138,075   $ 139,899  

Forward contracts to sell mortgage-backed securities

    308,067     306,682     102,250     101,772  

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        Changes in interest rates could materially affect the fair value of the IRLCs or the forward commitments. In the case of the loan related derivatives, fair value is also impacted by the probability that the rate lock commitment will close ("fallout factor"). In addition, changes in interest rates could result in changes in the fallout factor, which might magnify or counteract the sensitivities. This is because the impact of an interest rate shift on the fallout ratio is nonsymmetrical and nonlinear.

Impact of Inflation and Changing Prices

        The consolidated financial statements and related consolidated financial data presented herein have been prepared in accordance with GAAP and practices within the banking industry, which generally require the measurement of financial condition and operating results in terms of historical dollars, without considering the changes in the relative purchasing power of money over time due to inflation. As a financial institution, virtually all of our assets and liabilities are monetary in nature and interest rates have a more significant impact on our performance than the effects of general levels of inflation. A prolonged period of inflation could cause interest rates, wages, and other costs to increase and could adversely affect our results of operations unless mitigated by increases in our revenues correspondingly. However, we believe that the impact of inflation on our operations was not material for 2012 or 2011.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

        See Note 22 to our Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8 of Part II of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for discussion of recent accounting pronouncements.

Financial Review 2011/2010

        We recorded a net loss of $30.2 million for 2011 compared to net loss of $46.6 million for 2010, with diluted losses per share totaling $1.62 for 2011 compared to diluted losses per share of $3.15 in 2010. Discontinued operations contributed $200,000 in losses in 2010.

        Our results for 2011 were significantly impacted by persistent negative trends in the real estate markets. We experienced significant charge-offs in real estate loans in 2011 (although less than in 2010) as a substantial amount of these loans were moved to real estate acquired through foreclosure. In addition, as declines in real estate values continued in 2011, we recorded $7.8 million in additional write-downs, losses on, and expenses related to real estate acquired through foreclosure in 2011. We provided for additional loan loss reserves throughout 2011 for the anticipated loss exposure caused by the depressed real estate market. The provision for loan losses in 2011 was $14.3 million compared to $17.8 million in 2010. In addition, earnings were further impacted by the loss of interest income on loans placed on nonaccrual status and the cost of carrying foreclosed properties.

        Our largest category of revenue, net interest income, decreased $1.7 million, or 5.5%, in 2011 compared to 2010, primarily due to lower volume and yields on average interest-earning assets. Noninterest income decreased $4.9 million or 17.5%. We experienced decreases in most major noninterest income categories, with the exception of ATM fees, gains from the sale of AFS securities and net OTTI. Gains from the sale of AFS securities increased by $704,000 from 2010 to 2011 and net OTTI improved by $411,000 from 2010 to 2011. During 2010, we recognized a $958,000 gain on a debt exchange transaction. Included in other noninterest income in 2011 was an insurance recovery of $1.0 million to settle certain outstanding title insurance claims.

        Total expenses increased primarily due to increases in professional fees related to regulatory compliance, loan workouts, and capital-raising activities. This increase was significantly offset by reductions in other expenses that were the result of cost-cutting measures taken in 2011.

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        We recorded a loss from the discontinued operations of Mariner Finance of $200,000 in 2010. We recorded an income tax benefit of $606,000 in 2011 and income tax expense of $19.1 million in 2010, which was the result of the establishment of the valuation allowance on our deferred tax assets.

        Our return on average assets was (2.50)% for 2011 compared to (3.43)% for 2010. All 2011 performance indicators were significantly affected by our net loss.

        Our total assets decreased by $130.6 million, or 10.0%, during 2011, primarily a result of decreased net loans. Earning assets decreased $76.3 million, or 7.4%, from $1.0 billion in 2010 to $959.1 million in 2011. We purchased $62.8 million in AFS securities during 2011, partially offset by sales of AFS securities of $49.5 million. Deposits decreased by $107.1 million and short- and long-term borrowings increased by $3.4 million from December 31, 2010 to December 31, 2011. Stockholders' equity decreased $29.2 million, reflecting the 2011 losses.

        Our asset quality showed some improvement from 2010 to 2011 as our level of NPAs decreased from $71.7 million at December 31, 2010 to $61.9 million at December 31, 2011. At December 31, 2011, our allowance for loan losses amounted to $13.8 million, which totaled 20.2% of NPAs plus loans past due 90 days or more as of December 31, 2011, compared to 18.9% as of December 31, 2010. Our level of NPAs amounted to 5.3% of total assets at December 31, 2011 compared to 5.5% of total assets at December 31, 2010. Our ratio of net charge-offs to average total loans was 1.9% in 2011 compared to 1.8% in 2010.

        Bank capital adequacy levels deteriorated from 2010 to 2011, reflecting the 2011 net loss; the Bank was considered "significantly undercapitalized" at December 31, 2011. As of December 31, 2011, the Bank's leverage, Tier I capital to risk-weighted assets, and total capital to risk-weighted assets ratios were 3.0%, 4.2%, and 5.5%, respectively, compared to 4.7%, 6.8%, and 8.0%, respectively, at December 31, 2010. Our regulatory capital levels decreased due primarily to the level of losses in 2011.

ITEM 7A    QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

        For a discussion of interest rate risk, see Item 7 of Part II of this Annual Report on Form 10-K under the heading "Interest Rate Sensitivity."

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ITEM 8    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Board of Directors and Stockholders
First Mariner Bancorp
Baltimore, Maryland

        We have audited the accompanying consolidated statements of financial condition of First Mariner Bancorp and Subsidiaries (the "Company") as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss), changes in stockholders' (deficit) equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2012. The Company's management is responsible for these consolidated financial statements. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits.

        We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of their internal control over financial reporting. Our audit included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

        In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2012, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

        The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared assuming that the Company will continue as a going concern. The Company has insufficient capital per regulatory guidelines and has failed to reach capital levels required in the Cease and Desist Order issued by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation in September 2009. These matters raise substantial doubt about the Company's ability to continue as a going concern. Management's plans in regard to these matters are described in Note 2 of the consolidated financial statements. The 2012 consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of this uncertainty.

    /s/ Stegman & Company

Baltimore, Maryland
March 29, 2013

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FIRST MARINER BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition

 
  December 31,  
 
  2012   2011  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

ASSETS

             

Cash and due from banks

  $ 169,225   $ 104,204  

Federal funds sold and interest-bearing deposits

    16,556     44,585  

Securities available for sale ("AFS"), at fair value

    57,676     22,682  

Loans held for sale ("LHFS"), at fair value

    404,289     182,992  

Loans receivable

    610,396     701,751  

Allowance for loan losses

    (11,434 )   (13,801 )
           

Loans, net

    598,962     687,950  

Real estate acquired through foreclosure

    18,058     25,235  

Restricted stock investments

    7,099     7,085  

Premises and equipment, net

    37,651     38,278  

Accrued interest receivable

    4,387     4,025  

Bank-owned life insurance ("BOLI")

    38,601     37,478  

Prepaid expenses and other assets

    25,025     24,503  
           

Total assets

  $ 1,377,529   $ 1,179,017  
           

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' DEFICIT

             

Liabilities:

             

Deposits:

             

Noninterest-bearing

  $ 109,966   $ 100,303  

Interest-bearing

    1,076,864     914,457  
           

Total deposits

    1,186,830     1,014,760  

Short-term borrowings

    53,466     47,981  

Long-term borrowings

    73,515     73,698  

Junior subordinated deferrable interest debentures

    52,068     52,068  

Accrued expenses and other liabilities ($248 and $18 at fair value, respectively)

    20,022     15,922  
           

Total liabilities

    1,385,901     1,204,429  
           

Stockholders' deficit:

             

Common stock, $.05 par value; 75,000,000 shares authorized; 18,860,482 shares issued and outstanding at both December 31, 2012 and 2011

    939     939  

Additional paid-in capital

    79,872     80,125  

Retained deficit

    (87,337 )   (103,454 )

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

    (1,846 )   (3,022 )
           

Total stockholders' deficit

    (8,372 )   (25,412 )
           

Total liabilities and stockholders' deficit

  $ 1,377,529   $ 1,179,017  
           

   

See accompanying notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

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FIRST MARINER BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Statements of Operations

 
  For the Years Ended
December 31,
 
 
  2012   2011   2010  
 
  (dollars in thousands,
except per share data)

 

Interest income:

                   

Loans

  $ 46,281   $ 45,502   $ 52,826  

Securities and other earning assets

    1,453     2,005     2,395  
               

Total interest income

    47,734     47,507     55,221  
               

Interest expense:

                   

Deposits

    11,962     15,663     20,826  

Short-term borrowings

    131     266     347  

Long-term borrowings

    3,695     3,396     4,210  
               

Total interest expense

    15,788     19,325     25,383  
               

Net interest income

    31,946     28,182     29,838  

Provision for loan losses

    2,572     14,330     17,790  
               

Net interest income after provision for loan losses

    29,374     13,852     12,048  
               

Noninterest income:

                   

Total other-than-temporary impairment ("OTTI") charges

    273     (305 )   (445 )

Less: Portion included in other comprehensive loss (pre-tax)

    (733 )   (533 )   (804 )
               

Net OTTI charges on AFS securities

    (460 )   (838 )   (1,249 )

Mortgage-banking revenue

    49,682     13,595     16,950  

ATM fees

    2,617     3,046     3,038  

Gain on debt exchange

            958  

Service fees on deposits

    2,563     2,945     3,944  

Gain on financial instruments carried at fair value

            1,661  

Gain on sale of AFS securities, net

        758     54  

(Loss) gain on disposal of premises and equipment

    (1,271 )       67  

Commissions on sales of nondeposit investment products

    256     437     496  

Income from BOLI

    1,122     1,291     1,415  

Other

    977     2,015     858  
               

Total noninterest income

    55,486     23,249     28,192  
               

Noninterest expense:

                   

Salaries and employee benefits

    24,408     23,520     25,205  

Occupancy

    8,440     8,627     9,245  

Furniture, fixtures, and equipment

    1,407     1,735     2,334  

Professional services

    4,281     6,498     3,074  

Advertising

    870     663     633  

Data processing

    1,578     1,629     1,795  

ATM servicing expenses

    868     866     866  

Write-downs, losses, and costs of real estate acquired through foreclosure

    6,485     7,789     8,366  

Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation ("FDIC") insurance premiums

    4,255     4,285     3,801  

Service and maintenance

    2,703     2,487     2,317  

Corporate Insurance

    2,423     1,595     1,230  

Consulting fees

    1,814     1,592     1,043  

Postage

    2,736     699     558  

Loan collection expenses

    474     875     785  

Other

    5,838     5,091     6,246  
               

Total noninterest expense

    68,580     67,951     67,498  
               

Net income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and discontinued operations

    16,280     (30,850 )   (27,258 )

Income tax expense (benefit)—continuing operations

    163     (606 )   19,131  
               

Net income (loss) from continuing operations

    16,117     (30,244 )   (46,389 )
               

Loss from discontinued operations

            (200 )
               

Net income (loss)

  $ 16,117   $ (30,244 ) $ (46,589 )
               

Net income (loss) per common share from continuing operations:

                   

Basic

  $ 0.85   $ (1.62 ) $ (3.14 )
               

Diluted

  $ 0.85   $ (1.62 ) $ (3.14 )
               

Net loss per common share from discontinued operations:

                   

Basic

  $   $   $ (0.01 )
               

Diluted

  $   $   $ (0.01 )
               

Net income (loss) per common share:

                   

Basic

  $ 0.85   $ (1.62 ) $ (3.15 )
               

Diluted

  $ 0.85   $ (1.62 ) $ (3.15 )
               

   

See accompanying notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

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FIRST MARINER BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss)

 
  For the Years Ended December 31,  
 
  2012   2011   2010  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Net income (loss)

  $ 16,117   $ (30,244 ) $ (46,589 )
               

Other comprehensive income items:

                   

Unrealized holding gains (losses) on securities arising during the period (net of tax expense (benefit) of $610, $367, and $(568), respectively)

    902     543     (840 )

Reclassification adjustment for net losses on securities (net of tax benefit of $186, $32, and $482, respectively) included in net income (loss)

    274     48     713  
               

Total other comprehensive income (loss)

    1,176     591     (127 )
               

Total comprehensive income (loss)

  $ 17,293   $ (29,653 ) $ (46,716 )
               

   

See accompanying notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

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FIRST MARINER BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' (Deficit) Equity

 
  For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010  
 
  Number of
Shares of
Common
Stock
  Common
Stock
  Additional
Paid-in
Capital
  Retained
Deficit
  Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Loss
  Total
Stockholders'
(Deficit)
Equity
 
 
  (dollars in thousands, except number of shares)
 

Balance at January 1, 2010

    6,452,631   $ 323   $ 56,771   $ (26,621 ) $ (3,486 ) $ 26,987  

Net loss

                (46,589 )       (46,589 )

Change in unrealized gains and losses on AFS securities, net of taxes

                    (127 )   (127 )

Common stock issued, net of costs

    9,484,998     473     9,861             10,334  

Stock-based compensation expense

            29             29  

Warrants issued, net of reduction in value

            (137 )           (137 )

Debt exchange

    1,830,873     92     12,626             12,718  

Stock issued to Directors

    281,615     14     517             531  
                           

Balance at December 31, 2010

    18,050,117     902     79,667     (73,210 )   (3,613 )   3,746  

Net loss

                (30,244 )       (30,244 )

Change in unrealized gains and losses on AFS securities, net of taxes

                    591     591  

Common stock issued, net of costs

    810,365     37     334             371  

Stock-based compensation expense

            5             5  

Change in fair value of warrants

            119             119  
                           

Balance at December 31, 2011

    18,860,482     939     80,125     (103,454 )   (3,022 )   (25,412 )

Net income

                16,117         16,117  

Change in unrealized gains and losses on AFS securities, net of taxes

                    1,176     1,176  

Common stock issued, net of costs

            (23 )           (23 )

Change in fair value of warrants

            (230 )           (230 )
                           

Balance at December 31, 2012

    18,860,482   $ 939   $ 79,872   $ (87,337 ) $ (1,846 ) $ (8,372 )
                           

   

See accompanying notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

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FIRST MARINER BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

 
  For the Years Ended December 31,  
 
  2012   2011   2010  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Cash flows from operating activities:

                   

Net income (loss)

  $ 16,117   $ (30,244 ) $ (46,589 )

Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash from operating activities:

                   

Loss from discontinued operations

            200  

Stock-based compensation

        5     29  

Depreciation and amortization

    2,692     3,229     3,851  

Amortization of unearned loan fees and costs, net

    25     414     289  

Amortization (accretion) of premiums and discounts on mortgage-backed securities, net

    12     30     (20 )

Gain on financial instruments carried at fair value

            (1,661 )

Origination fees and gain on sale of mortgage loans

    (47,176 )   (11,810 )   (14,105 )

Gain on debt exchange

            (958 )

Net OTTI charges on AFS securities

    460     838     1,249  

Gain on sale of AFS securities, net

        (758 )   (54 )

(Increase) decrease in accrued interest receivable

    (362 )   (181 )   1,116  

Provision for loan losses

    2,572     14,330     17,790  

Write-downs and losses on sale of real estate acquired through foreclosure

    4,032     6,976     6,334  

Loss (gain) on disposal of premises and equipment

    1,271         (67 )

Increase in cash surrender value of BOLI

    (1,122 )   (1,291 )   (1,415 )

Originations of mortgage LHFS

    (2,513,088 )   (1,099,114 )   (1,349,786 )

Proceeds from mortgage LHFS

    2,338,624     1,066,244     1,346,213  

Deferred income taxes

    538     609     28,086  

Net increase (decrease) in accrued expenses and other liabilities

    3,868     2,785     (636 )

Net (increase) decrease in prepaids and other assets

    (1,854 )   (8,958 )   4,396  
               

Net cash used in operating activities

    (193,391 )   (56,896 )   (5,738 )
               

Cash flows from investing activities:

                   

Loan principal repayments, net of (disbursements)

    60,622     68,625     43,236  

Loans sales

    19,034     10,727      

Repurchases of loans previously sold

    (1,569 )   (517 )   (1,208 )

(Purchases) sales of restricted stock investments

    (14 )   10     839  

Purchases of premises and equipment

    (3,347 )   (448 )   (2,208 )

Proceeds from disposals of premises and equipment

    11     9     811  

Sales of trading securities

            10,083  

Maturities/calls/repayments of trading securities

            735  

Activity in AFS securities:

                   

Maturities/calls/repayments

    9,195     19,310     3,151  

Sales

        49,515     8,011  

Purchases

    (41,609 )   (62,799 )   (12,090 )

Additional funds disbursed on real estate acquired through foreclosure

        (1,754 )    

Proceeds from sales of real estate acquired through foreclosure

    10,710     8,802     15,733  
               

Net cash provided by investing activities

    53,033     91,480     67,093  
               

Cash flows from financing activities:

                   

Net increase (decrease) in deposits

    172,071     (107,129 )   (24,616 )

Net increase (decrease) in other borrowed funds

    5,302     3,393     (2,815 )

Net (costs of) proceeds from stock issuance

    (23 )   (20 )   10,334  
               

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

    177,350     (103,756 )   (17,097 )
               

Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

    36,992     (69,172 )   44,258  

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

    148,789     217,961     173,703  
               

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

  $ 185,781   $ 148,789   $ 217,961  
               

Supplemental information:

                   

Interest paid on deposits and borrowed funds

  $ 14,229   $ 18,024   $ 25,515  
               

Real estate acquired through foreclosure

  $ 7,565   $ 18,699   $ 21,622  
               

Transfers of LHFS to loan portfolio

  $ 10,006   $ 2,031   $ 8,150  
               

   

See accompanying notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

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FIRST MARINER BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(1) Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

        First Mariner Bancorp ("First Mariner," on a parent only basis and "we," "our," or "us" on a consolidated basis) is a bank holding company incorporated under the laws of the state of Maryland. First Mariner is headquartered in Baltimore, Maryland, and was originally established as "MarylandsBank Corp." in May 1994. MarylandsBank Corp.'s name was changed to "First Mariner Bancorp" in May 1995. First Mariner Bancorp owns 100% of common stock of First Mariner Bank (the "Bank") and prior to August 1, 2010, FM Appraisals, LLC ("FM Appraisals"). On August 1, 2010, FM Appraisals was pushed down as a subsidiary of the Bank.

        Most of our activities are with customers within the Central Maryland region. A portion of activities related to mortgage lending are more dispersed and cover parts of the Mid-Atlantic region and other regions outside of the state of Maryland. Note 4 describes the types of securities that we invest in and Note 5 discusses our lending activities. We do not have any concentrations to any one industry or customer.

        Our consolidated financial statements include the accounts of First Mariner and the Bank. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. Events occurring after the date of the financial statements were considered in the preparation of the financial statements. Certain reclassifications have been made to amounts previously reported to conform to classifications made in 2012.

        The preparation of the financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP") requires management to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Material estimates that are particularly susceptible to significant change in the near term relate to the determination of the allowance for loan losses (the "allowance"), loan repurchases and related valuations, real estate acquired through foreclosure, impairment of AFS securities, valuations of financial instruments, and deferred income taxes. In connection with these determinations, management evaluates historical trends and ratios and, where appropriate, obtains independent appraisals for significant properties and prepares fair value analyses. Actual results could differ significantly from those estimates.

        We consider all highly liquid securities with original maturities of three months or less to be cash equivalents. For reporting purposes, assets grouped in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition under the captions "Cash and due from banks" and "Federal funds sold and interest-bearing deposits" are considered cash or cash equivalents. For financial statement purposes, these assets are carried at cost. Federal funds sold and interest-bearing deposits have overnight maturities and are generally in excess of amounts that would be recoverable under FDIC insurance.

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FIRST MARINER BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(1) Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)

        We designate securities into one of three categories at the time of purchase. Debt securities that we have the intent and ability to hold to maturity are classified as held to maturity and recorded at amortized cost. Debt and equity securities are classified as trading if bought and held principally for the purpose of sale in the near term. Trading securities are reported at estimated fair value, with unrealized gains and losses included in earnings. Debt securities not classified as held to maturity and debt and equity securities not classified as trading securities are considered AFS and are reported at estimated fair value, with unrealized gains and losses reported as a separate component of stockholders' deficit, net of tax effects, in accumulated other comprehensive loss.

        AFS Securities are evaluated periodically to determine whether a decline in their value is other than temporary. The term "other than temporary" is not intended to indicate a permanent decline in value. Rather, it means that the prospects for near term recovery of value are not necessarily favorable, or that there is a lack of evidence to support fair values equal to, or greater than, the carrying value of the security.

        The initial indications of OTTI for both debt and equity securities are a decline in the market value below the amount recorded for a security and the severity and duration of the decline. In determining whether an impairment is other than temporary, we consider the length of time and the extent to which the market value has been below cost, recent events specific to the issuer, including investment downgrades by rating agencies and economic conditions of its industry, our intent to sell the security, and if it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis. For marketable equity securities, we also consider the issuer's financial condition, capital strength, and near-term prospects. For debt securities and for perpetual preferred securities that are treated as debt securities for the purpose of OTTI analysis, we also consider the cause of the price decline (general level of interest rates and industry- and issuer-specific factors), the issuer's financial condition, near-term prospects and current ability to make future payments in a timely manner, the issuer's ability to service debt, and any change in agencies' ratings at evaluation date from acquisition date and any likely imminent action. Once a decline in value is determined to be other than temporary, the security is segmented into credit- and noncredit-related components. Any impairment adjustment due to identified credit-related components is recorded as an adjustment to current period earnings, while noncredit-related fair value adjustments are recorded through accumulated other comprehensive loss. In situations where we intend to sell or it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell the security, the entire OTTI loss is recognized in earnings.

        Gains or losses on the sales of securities are calculated using a specific-identification basis and are determined on a trade-date basis. Premiums and discounts on securities are amortized (accreted) over the term of the security using methods that approximate the interest method. Gains and losses on trading securities are recognized regularly in income as the fair value of those securities changes.

        Loans originated for sale are carried at fair value. Fair value is determined based on outstanding investor commitments or, in the absence of such commitments, on current investor yield requirements or third party pricing models. Gains and losses on loan sales are determined using the

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(1) Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)

specific-identification method and are recognized through mortgage-banking revenue in the Consolidated Statement of Operations.

        Our loans receivable are stated at their principal balance outstanding, net of related deferred fees and costs.

        Interest income on loans is accrued at the contractual rate based on the principal outstanding. Loan origination fees and certain direct loan origination costs are deferred and amortized as a yield adjustment over the contractual loan terms or until the date of sale or disposition. Accrual of interest is discontinued when its receipt is in doubt, which typically occurs when a loan becomes impaired. Any interest accrued to income in the year when interest accruals are discontinued is generally reversed. Management may elect to continue the accrual of interest when a loan is in the process of collection and the estimated fair value of the collateral is sufficient to satisfy the principal balance and accrued interest. Payments on nonaccrual loans are applied to principal. See additional information on loan impairment and nonaccrual status below.

        For smaller noncommercial loans, we place loans in nonaccrual status when they are contractually past due 90 days as to either principal or interest, unless the loan is well secured and in the process of collection, or earlier, when, in the opinion of management, the collection of principal and interest is in doubt. For all commercial loans, larger loans, and certain mortgage loans, management applies Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") guidance on impaired loan accounting to determine accrual status. Under that guidance, when it is probable that we will be unable to collect all payments due, including interest, we place the loan in nonaccrual status. A loan remains in nonaccrual status until the loan is current as to payment of both principal and interest and the borrower demonstrates the ability to pay and remain current. Specifically, in order for a nonaccrual loan to be returned to accrual status, a borrower must make six consecutive monthly payments and the borrower must demonstrate the ability to keep the loan current going forward. When a loan is partially charged off, the remaining balance remains in nonaccrual status.

        As a result of our ongoing review of the loan portfolio, we may classify loans as nonaccrual even though the presence of collateral or the borrower's financial strength may be sufficient to provide for ultimate repayment. In general, loans are charged off when a loan or a portion thereof is considered uncollectible. We determine that the entire balance of a loan is contractually delinquent for all classes if the minimum payment is not received by the specified due date. Interest and fees continue to accrue on past due loans until the date the loan goes in nonaccrual status.

        We determine a loan to be impaired when, based on current information and events, it is probable that we will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(1) Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)

agreement. In general, impaired loans consist of nonaccrual loans and troubled debt restructures ("TDR" or "TDRs"). We do not consider a loan impaired during a period of delay in payment if we expect to collect all amounts due, including interest past due. Generally we consider a period of delay in payment to include delinquency up to 90 days, but may extend this period if the loan is collateralized by residential or commercial real estate with a low loan-to-value ("LTV") ratio, and where collection and repayment efforts are progressing. We evaluate our commercial, commercial mortgage, commercial construction, and consumer construction classes of loans individually for impairment. We evaluate larger groups of smaller-balance homogeneous loans, which include our residential mortgage, home equity and second mortgage, and other consumer classes of loans, collectively for impairment.

        We measure loan impairment (1) at the present value of expected cash flows discounted at the loan's effective interest rate, (2) at the observable market price, or (3) at the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral dependent. If our measure of the impaired loan is less than the recorded investment in the loan, we record a charge-off for the deficiency unless it's a TDR, for which we recognize an impairment loss through an allocated portion of the allowance for loan losses.

        When the ultimate collectability of an impaired loan's principal is in doubt, wholly or partially, all cash receipts are applied to principal. Once the recorded principal balance has been reduced to zero, future cash receipts are applied to interest income, to the extent any interest has been foregone, and then they are recorded as recoveries of any amounts previously charged off. When this doubt no longer exists, cash receipts are applied under the contractual terms of the loan agreement.

        Origination and commitment fees and direct origination costs on loans held for investment generally are deferred and amortized to income over the contractual lives of the related loans using the interest method. Under certain circumstances, commitment fees are recognized over the commitment period or upon expiration of the commitment. Fees to extend loans three months or less are recognized in income upon receipt. Unamortized loan fees are recognized in income when the related loans are sold or prepaid.

        In accordance with FASB guidance on mortgage-banking activities, any loans which are originally originated for sale into the secondary market and which we subsequently elect to transfer into the Company's loan portfolio are valued at fair value at the time of the transfer with any decline in value recorded as a charge to operating expense.

        We strive to identify borrowers in financial difficulty early and work with them to modify to more affordable terms before their loan reaches nonaccrual status. In situations where, for economic or legal reasons related to a borrower's financial difficulties, we may grant a concession for other than an insignificant period of time to the borrower that would not otherwise be considered, the related now-modified loan is classified as a TDR. These modified terms may include rate reductions, principal forgiveness, payment extensions, payment forbearance, and/or other actions intended to minimize the

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(1) Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)

economic loss and to avoid foreclosure or repossession of the collateral. These loans are excluded from pooled loss forecasts and a separate reserve is provided under the accounting guidance for loan impairment. At the time that a loan is modified, we evaluate any possible impairment based on the present value of expected future cash flows, discounted at the contractual interest rate of the original loan agreement, except when the sole remaining source of repayment for the loan is the liquidation of the collateral. In these cases, we use the current fair value of the collateral, less selling costs, instead of discounted cash flows. Any impairment amount is then set up as an allocated portion of the allowance.

        Our allowance for loan losses represents an estimated amount that, in management's judgment, will be adequate to absorb probable incurred losses on existing loans. Management uses a disciplined process and methodology to establish the allowance for losses each quarter. The allowance for loan losses consists of an allocated component and an unallocated component. To determine the total allowance for loan losses, we estimate the reserves needed for each loan class, including loans analyzed individually and loans analyzed on a pooled basis.

        To determine the allocated component of the allowance account, loans are pooled by loan class and losses are modeled using historical experience, quantitative analysis, and other mathematical techniques over the loss emergence period. For each class of loan, significant judgment is exercised to determine the estimation method that fits the credit risk characteristics of that portfolio class. We use internally developed models in this process. Management must use judgment in establishing additional input metrics for the modeling processes. The models and assumptions used to determine the allowance are validated and reviewed to ensure that their theoretical foundation, assumptions, data integrity, computational processes, reporting practices, and end-user controls are appropriate and properly documented.

        The unallocated allowance for loan losses represents environmental factors applied to each loan class and is based upon management's evaluation of various conditions that are not directly measured in the determination of the formula and other allocated allowances.

        The establishment of the allowance for loan losses relies on a consistent process that requires multiple layers of management review and judgment and responds timely to changes in economic conditions and other influences. From time to time, events or economic factors may affect the loan portfolio, causing management to provide additional amounts to or release balances from the allowance for loan losses.

        We monitor differences between estimated and actual incurred loan losses utilizing charge-off history. Loans deemed uncollectible are charged against, while recoveries are credited to, the allowance. Management adjusts the level of the allowance through the provision for loan losses, which is recorded as a current period operating expense.

        Commercial (including commercial mortgages) and construction loans (including both commercial and consumer) are generally evaluated for impairment when the loan becomes 90 days past due and/or is rated as substandard. The difference between the fair value of the collateral, less estimated selling costs and the carrying value of the loan is charged off at that time. Residential mortgage loans are generally charged down to their fair value when the loan becomes 120 days past due or is placed in

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(1) Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)

nonaccrual status, whichever is earlier. Consumer loans are generally charged off when the loan becomes 120 days past due or when it is determined that the amounts due are uncollectible (whichever is earlier). The above charge-off guidelines may not apply if the loan is both well secured and in the process of collection. These charge-off policies have not changed in the last three years.

        As an additional portion of the allowance for loan losses, we also estimate probable losses related to unfunded loan commitments. These commitments are subject to individual review and are analyzed for impairment the same as a correspondent loan.

        We record real estate acquired through foreclosure at the lower of cost or market value ("LCM") on the acquisition date and at the lower of such initial amount or estimated fair value less estimated selling costs thereafter. Estimated fair value is based upon many subjective factors, including location and condition of the property and current economic conditions, among other things. Because the calculation of fair value relies on estimates and judgments relating to inherently uncertain events, results may differ from our estimates.

        Write-downs at the time of transfer are made through the allowance for loan losses. Write-downs subsequent to transfer are included in our noninterest expenses, along with operating income, net of related expenses of such properties and gains or losses realized upon disposition.

        The Bank, as a member of the Federal Home Loan Bank System, is required to maintain an investment in capital stock of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta ("FHLB") in varying amounts based on asset size and on amounts borrowed from the FHLB. Because no ready market exists for this stock and it has no quoted market value, the Bank's investment in this stock is carried at cost.

        The Bank maintains an investment in capital stock of several bankers' banks. Because no ready market exists for these stocks and they have no quoted market values, the Bank's investment in these stocks is carried at cost.

        Our premises and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization are accumulated using straight-line and accelerated methods over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Additions and betterments are capitalized and charges for repairs and maintenance are expensed when incurred. The cost and accumulated depreciation or amortization is eliminated from the accounts when an asset is sold or retired and the resultant gain or loss is credited or charged to income. Premises and equipment have estimated useful lives ranging from 3 to 39 years. We capitalize the cost of imputed interest we incur for significant real estate construction and development and charge the amount of capitalized interest to depreciation expense on a straight-line basis over the useful life of the asset. Capitalized interest is computed and capitalized based on the average invested amount in the development project over the construction period at the rate of the Company's incremental borrowing cost for the construction period.

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(1) Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)

        BOLI is carried at the aggregate cash surrender value of life insurance policies owned where the Company or its subsidiaries are named beneficiaries. Increases in cash surrender value derived from crediting rates for underlying insurance policies is credited to noninterest income.

        Transfers of financial assets are accounted for as sales when control over the assets has been surrendered. Control over transferred assets is deemed to be surrendered when (1) the assets have been isolated from the Company, (2) the transferee obtains the right (free of conditions that constrain it from taking advantage of that right) to pledge or exchange the transferred assets, and (3) the Company does not maintain effective control over the transferred assets through a requirement to repurchase them before their maturity.

        Deferred income taxes are recognized for the tax consequences of temporary differences between financial statement carrying amounts and the tax bases of assets and liabilities. Deferred income taxes are provided on income and expense items when they are reported for financial statement purposes in periods different from the periods in which these items are recognized in the income tax returns. Deferred tax assets are recognized only to the extent that it is more likely than not that such amounts will be realized based upon consideration of available evidence, including tax planning strategies and other factors.

        The calculation of tax liabilities is complex and requires the use of estimates and judgment since it involves the application of complex tax laws that are subject to different interpretations by us and the various tax authorities. These interpretations are subject to challenge by the tax authorities upon audit or to reinterpretation based on management's ongoing assessment of facts and evolving case law.

        Periodically and in the ordinary course of business, we are involved in inquiries and reviews by tax authorities that normally require management to provide supplemental information to support certain tax positions we take in our tax returns. Uncertain tax positions are initially recognized in the financial statements when it is more likely than not the position will be sustained upon examination by the tax authorities. Such tax positions are initially and subsequently measured as the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement with the tax authority assuming full knowledge of the position and all relevant facts. For tax positions not meeting the "more likely than not" test, no tax benefit is recorded. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, we maintained a valuation allowance against the full amount of our deferred tax assets. Management believes it has taken appropriate positions on its tax returns, although the ultimate outcome of any tax review cannot be predicted with certainty. No assurance can be given that the final outcome of these matters will not be different than what is reflected in the current and historical financial statements.

        We recognize interest and penalties related to income tax matters in income tax expense.

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(1) Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)

        We expense our advertising costs as incurred, except payments for major sponsorships which are amortized over an estimated life not to exceed one year. Advertising expenses were $870,000, $663,000, and $633,000 for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010, respectively.

        We account for derivatives in accordance with FASB literature on accounting for derivative instruments and hedging activities. When we enter into the derivative contract, we designate a derivative as held for trading, an economic hedge, or a qualifying hedge as detailed in the literature. The designation may change based upon management's reassessment or changing circumstances. Derivatives utilized by the Company include interest rate lock commitments ("IRLC" or "IRLCs") and forward settlement contracts. IRLCs occur when we originate mortgage loans with interest rates determined prior to funding. Forward settlement contracts are agreements to buy or sell a quantity of a financial instrument, index, currency, or commodity at a predetermined future date, and rate or price.

        We designate at inception whether a derivative contract is considered hedging or nonhedging. All of our derivatives are nonexchange traded contracts, and as such, their fair value is based on dealer quotes, pricing models, discounted cash flow methodologies, or similar techniques for which the determination of fair value may require significant management judgment or estimation.

        For qualifying hedges, we formally document at inception all relationships between hedging instruments and hedged items, as well as risk management objectives and strategies for undertaking various accounting hedges. We utilize derivatives to manage interest rate sensitivity in certain cases.

        At December 31, 2012 and 2011, we did not have any designated hedges as we do not designate IRLCs or forward sales commitments on residential mortgage originations as hedges. We recognize any gains and losses on IRLCs and forward sales commitments on residential mortgage originations through mortgage-banking revenue in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.

(2) Going Concern Consideration

        Due to the conditions and events discussed later in Note 10, there is substantial doubt regarding our ability to continue as a going concern. Management is taking various steps designed to improve the Company's and the Bank's capital position. The Bank has developed a written alternative capital plan designed to improve the Bank's capital ratios. Such plan is dependent upon a capital infusion to meet the capital requirements of the various regulatory agreements (see Note 10 for more information on the agreements). The Company continues to work with its advisors in an attempt to improve capital ratios.

        The consolidated financial statements presented above and the accompanying Notes have been prepared on a going concern basis, which contemplates the realization of assets and the discharge of liabilities in the normal course of business for the foreseeable future, and does not include any adjustment to reflect the possible future effects on the recoverability and classification of assets, or the amounts and classification of liabilities that may result from the outcome of any extraordinary regulatory action, which would affect our ability to continue as a going concern.

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(3) Restrictions on Cash and Due From Banks

        The Bank is required by the Federal Reserve Board ("FRB") to maintain certain cash reserve balances based principally on deposit liabilities. Due to large vault cash amounts at December 31, 2012, no additional reserves were required at the FRB. At December 31, 2011 the required reserve balance was $1.0 million. The Bank pledged $1.9 million and $3.1 million in cash for exposure on debit card transactions as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

(4) Securities

        The composition of our securities portfolio is as follows at December 31:

 
  2012  
 
  Amortized
Cost
  Unrealized
Gains
  Unrealized
Losses
  Estimated
Fair Value
 
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Mortgage-backed securities

  $ 7,040   $ 169   $ 75   $ 7,134  

Trust preferred securities

    11,246     79     2,144     9,181  

U.S. government agency notes

    33,435     107     5     33,537  

U.S. Treasury securities

    5,779     2         5,781  

Equity securities—banks

    1,288     16     48     1,256  

Equity securities—mutual funds

    750     37         787  
                   

  $ 59,538   $ 410   $ 2,272   $ 57,676  
                   

 

 
  2011  
 
  Amortized
Cost
  Unrealized
Gains
  Unrealized
Losses
  Estimated
Fair Value
 
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Mortgage-backed securities

  $ 1,834   $ 125   $   $ 1,959  

Trust preferred securities

    13,420     103     3,255     10,268  

U.S. government agency notes

    8,507     11         8,518  

U.S. Treasury securities

    1,004             1,004  

Equity securities—banks

    189     6     44     151  

Equity securities—mutual funds

    750     32         782  
                   

  $ 25,704   $ 277   $ 3,299   $ 22,682  
                   

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(4) Securities (Continued)

        Contractual maturities of debt securities at December 31, 2012 are shown below. Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because borrowers have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties.

 
  Amortized
Cost
  Estimated
Fair Value
 
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Due in one year or less

  $ 13,002   $ 13,035  

Due after one year through five years

    27,231     27,302  

Due after ten years

    10,227     8,162  

Mortgage-backed securities

    7,040     7,134  
           

  $ 57,500   $ 55,633  
           

        The following tables show the level of our gross unrealized losses and the fair value of the associated securities by type and maturity for AFS securities at December 31:

 
  2012  
 
  Less than 12 months   12 months or more   Total  
 
  Estimated
Fair Value
  Unrealized
Losses
  Estimated
Fair Value
  Unrealized
Losses
  Estimated
Fair Value
  Unrealized
Losses
 
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Mortgage-backed securities

  $ 3,552   $ 75   $   $   $ 3,552   $ 75  

Trust preferred securities

            5,027     2,144     5,027     2,144  

U.S. government agency notes

    9,139     5             9,139     5  

Equity securities—banks

    1,035     47     123     1     1,158     48  
                           

  $ 13,726   $ 127   $ 5,150   $ 2,145   $ 18,876   $ 2,272  
                           

 

 
  2011  
 
  Less than 12 months   12 months or more   Total  
 
  Estimated
Fair Value
  Unrealized
Losses
  Estimated
Fair Value
  Unrealized
Losses
  Estimated
Fair Value
  Unrealized
Losses
 
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Trust preferred securities

  $ 1,967   $ 66   $ 4,542   $ 3,189   $ 6,509   $ 3,255  

Equity securities—banks

            63     44     63     44  
                           

  $ 1,967   $ 66   $ 4,605   $ 3,233   $ 6,572   $ 3,299  
                           

        For AFS securities, gross unrealized losses totaled $2.3 million as of December 31, 2012 and equaled 12.0% of the fair value of securities with unrealized losses as of that date. A total of 20 securities were in an unrealized loss position as of December 31, 2012, with the largest single unrealized loss in any one security totaling $1.6 million. Eight securities were in an unrealized loss position for twelve months or more.

        The trust preferred securities that we hold in our securities portfolio are issued by other banks, bank holding companies, and insurance companies. Certain of these securities have experienced

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(4) Securities (Continued)

declines in value since acquisition. These declines have occurred due to changes in the market which has limited the demand for these securities and reduced their liquidity. We consider the decline in value for four pooled trust preferred securities to be other than temporary and recorded the credit-related portion of the impairment as net OTTI of $460,000, $838,000, and $1.2 million during 2012, 2011, and 2010, respectively. See additional information on the pooled trust preferred securities in Note 15.

        The following shows the activity in OTTI related to credit losses for the years ended December 31:

 
  2012   2011   2010  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Balance at beginning of year

  $ 8,730   $ 7,892   $ 6,643  

Additional net OTTI recorded for credit losses

    460     838     1,249  
               

Balance at end of year

  $ 9,190   $ 8,730   $ 7,892  
               

        All of the remaining securities that are impaired are so due to declines in fair values resulting from changes in interest rates or increased credit/liquidity spreads since the time they were purchased. We have the intent to hold these debt securities to maturity, and, for debt and equity securities in a loss position, for the foreseeable future and do not intend, nor do we believe it is more likely than not, that we will be required to sell the securities before anticipated recovery. We expect these securities will be repaid in full, with no losses realized. As such, management considers the impairments to be temporary.

        We did not sell any AFS securities during 2012. During 2011 and 2010, we recognized gross losses on the sale of AFS securities of $23,000 and $420,000, respectively. During 2011 and 2010, we recognized gross gains on sale of AFS securities of $781,000 and $474,000, respectively.

        At December 31, 2012, we held securities with an aggregate carrying value (fair value) of $41.7 million that we have pledged as collateral for certain mortgage-banking and hedging activities, borrowings, government deposits, and customer deposits.

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(5) Loans Receivable (Financing Receivables) and Allowance for Loan Losses

        Loans receivable represent our only form of financing receivables and are summarized as follows at December 31:

 
  2012   2011  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Commercial

  $ 47,838   $ 47,518  

Commercial mortgage

    263,763     331,943  

Commercial construction

    49,931     54,433  

Consumer construction

    18,668     16,456  

Residential mortgage

    111,376     121,071  

Consumer

    117,581     129,227  
           

Total loans

    609,157     700,648  

Unearned loan fees, net

    1,239     1,103  
           

  $ 610,396   $ 701,751  
           

        Included in consumer loan totals in the above table are overdrawn commercial and retail checking accounts totaling $919,000 and $184,000 as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

        At December 31, 2012, we had pledged loans with a carrying value of $101.2 million as collateral for FHLB advances.

Transferred Loans

        Information on the activity in transferred loans and related accretable yield is as follows for the years ended December 31:

 
  Loan Balance   Accretable
Yield
  Total  
 
  2012   2011   2012   2011   2012   2011  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Beginning balance

  $ 14,008   $ 26,219   $ 266   $ 178   $ 13,742   $ 26,041  

Loans transferred

    10,006     2,031     207         9,799     2,031  

Loans moved to real estate acquired through foreclosure

        (2,494 )               (2,494 )

Charge-offs

    (1,435 )   (742 )   (21 )   (31 )   (1,414 )   (711 )

Sales/payments/amortization

    (5,078 )   (11,006 )   (232 )   119     (4,846 )   (11,125 )
                           

Ending balance

  $ 17,501   $ 14,008   $ 220   $ 266   $ 17,281   $ 13,742  
                           

Credit Quality

        Management has an established methodology to determine the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses that assesses the risks and losses inherent in the loan portfolio. For purposes of determining the allowance for loan losses, we have segmented our loan portfolio by product type. Our portfolio loan segments are commercial, commercial mortgage, commercial construction, consumer construction, residential mortgage, and consumer. We have looked at all segments to determine if subcategorization

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(5) Loans Receivable (Financing Receivables) and Allowance for Loan Losses (Continued)

into classes is warranted based upon our credit review methodology. We have divided consumer loans into two classes, (1) home equity and second mortgage loans and (2) other consumer loans.

        To establish the allocated portion of the allowance for loan losses, loans are pooled by portfolio class and an historical loss percentage is applied to each class. The historical loss percentage is based upon a rolling 24 month history. This rolling history is utilized so that we have the most current and relevant charge-off trend data. These charge-offs are segregated by loan segment and compared to their respective loan segment average balances for the same period in order to calculate the charge-off percentage. That percentage is then applied to the current period loan balances to determine the required allocated reserve. That calculation determines the required allocated allowance for loan loss level. We then apply additional loss multipliers to the different segments of loans to reflect various environmental factors. This amount is considered our unallocated reserve. For individually evaluated loans (impaired loans), we do additional analyses to determine the impairment. In general, this impairment is included as part of the allocated allowance for loan losses for modified loans and is charged off for all other impaired loans. These loss estimates are performed under multiple economic scenarios to establish a range of potential outcomes for each criterion. Management applies judgment to develop its own view of loss probability within that range, using external and internal parameters with the objective of establishing an allowance for loss inherent within these portfolios as of the reporting date.

        The following tables presents by portfolio segment, the changes in the allowance for loan losses, and the recorded investment in loans:

As of and for the year ended December 31, 2012:

 
  Commercial   Commercial
Mortgage
  Commercial
Construction
  Consumer
Construction
  Residential
Mortgage
  Consumer   Unallocated   Total  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Beginning Balance

  $ 2,768   $ 2,011   $ 1,809   $ 156   $ 2,711   $ 2,632   $ 1,714   $ 13,801  

Charge-offs

    (360 )   (933 )   (409 )   (7 )   (2,399 )   (2,169 )       (6,277 )

Recoveries

        612     52         439     235         1,338  
                                   

Net charge-offs

    (360 )   (321 )   (357 )   (7 )   (1,960 )   (1,934 )       (4,939 )
                                   

(Reversal of) provision for loan losses

    (338 )   (436 )   (1,038 )   (129 )   1,023     1,342     2,148     2,572  
                                   

Ending Balance

  $ 2,070   $ 1,254   $ 414   $ 20   $ 1,774   $ 2,040   $ 3,862   $ 11,434  
                                   

Ending balance—individually evaluated for impairment

 
$

133
 
$

23
 
$

 
$

 
$

171
 
$

 
$

 
$

327
 

Ending balance—collectively evaluated for impairment

    1,937     1,231     414     20     1,603     2,040     3,862     11,107  
                                   

  $ 2,070   $ 1,254   $ 414   $ 20   $ 1,774   $ 2,040   $ 3,862   $ 11,434  
                                   

Ending loan balance—individually evaluated for impairment

  $ 9,818   $ 34,318   $ 11,692   $ 645   $ 18,190   $ 1,247         $ 75,910  

Ending loan balance—collectively evaluated for impairment

    38,089     229,396     38,210     18,192     93,155     117,444           534,486  
                                     

  $ 47,907   $ 263,714   $ 49,902   $ 18,837   $ 111,345   $ 118,691         $ 610,396  
                                     

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(5) Loans Receivable (Financing Receivables) and Allowance for Loan Losses (Continued)

As of and for the year ended December 31, 2011:

 
  Commercial   Commercial
Mortgage
  Commercial
Construction
  Consumer
Construction
  Residential
Mortgage
  Consumer   Unallocated   Total  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Beginning Balance

  $ 291   $ 2,542   $ 2,053   $ 817   $ 3,032   $ 2,417   $ 2,963   $ 14,115  

Charge-offs

    (5,484 )   (3,335 )   (730 )   (43 )   (2,720 )   (2,868 )       (15,180 )

Recoveries

        173     27         39     297         536  
                                   

Net charge-offs

    (5,484 )   (3,162 )   (703 )   (43 )   (2,681 )   (2,571 )       (14,644 )
                                   

Provision for (reversal of) loan losses

    7,961     2,631     459     (618 )   2,360     2,786     (1,249 )   14,330  
                                   

Ending Balance

  $ 2,768   $ 2,011   $ 1,809   $ 156   $ 2,711   $ 2,632   $ 1,714   $ 13,801  
                                   

Ending balance—individually evaluated for impairment

 
$

4
 
$

57
 
$

 
$

 
$

222
 
$

 
$

 
$

283
 

Ending balance—collectively evaluated for impairment

    2,764     1,954     1,809     156     2,489     2,632     1,714     13,518  
                                   

  $ 2,768   $ 2,011   $ 1,809   $ 156   $ 2,711   $ 2,632   $ 1,714   $ 13,801  
                                   

Ending loan balance—individually evaluated for impairment

  $ 4,965   $ 26,345   $ 11,066   $ 718   $ 18,020   $ 905         $ 62,019  

Ending loan balance—collectively evaluated for impairment

    47,877     300,185     43,283     15,562     103,099     129,726           639,732  
                                     

  $ 52,842   $ 326,530   $ 54,349   $ 16,280   $ 121,119   $ 130,631         $ 701,751  
                                     

As of and for the year ended December 31, 2010:

 
  Commercial   Commercial
Mortgage
  Commercial
Construction
  Consumer
Construction
  Residential
Mortgage
  Consumer   Unallocated   Total  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Beginning Balance

  $ 817   $ 3,336   $ 1,647   $ 293   $ 2,062   $ 882   $ 2,602   $ 11,639  

Charge-offs

    (1,979 )   (1,395 )   (4,252 )   (804 )   (3,757 )   (3,787 )       (15,974 )

Recoveries

            7         104     549         660  
                                   

Net charge-offs

    (1,979 )   (1,395 )   (4,245 )   (804 )   (3,653 )   (3,238 )       (15,314 )
                                   

Provision for loan losses

    1,453     601     4,651     1,328     4,623     4,773     361     17,790  
                                   

Ending Balance

  $ 291   $ 2,542   $ 2,053   $ 817   $ 3,032   $ 2,417   $ 2,963   $ 14,115  
                                   

Ending balance—individually evaluated for impairment

 
$

 
$

88
 
$

14
 
$

 
$

486
 
$

 
$

 
$

588
 

Ending balance—collectively evaluated for impairment

    291     2,454     2,039     817     2,546     2,417     2,963     13,527  
                                   

  $ 291   $ 2,542   $ 2,053   $ 817   $ 3,032   $ 2,417   $ 2,963   $ 14,115  
                                   

Ending loan balance—individually evaluated for impairment

  $ 1,501   $ 29,848   $ 13,273   $ 1,257   $ 25,024   $ 1,067         $ 71,970  

Ending loan balance—collectively evaluated for impairment

    77,300     319,563     45,491     29,535     119,185     148,643           739,717  
                                     

  $ 78,801   $ 349,411   $ 58,764   $ 30,792   $ 144,209   $ 149,710         $ 811,687  
                                     

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(5) Loans Receivable (Financing Receivables) and Allowance for Loan Losses (Continued)

        We use creditworthiness categories to grade commercial loans. Our internal grading system is based on experiences with similarly graded loans. Category ratings are reviewed each quarter. Our internal risk ratings are as follows:

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(5) Loans Receivable (Financing Receivables) and Allowance for Loan Losses (Continued)

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(5) Loans Receivable (Financing Receivables) and Allowance for Loan Losses (Continued)

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(5) Loans Receivable (Financing Receivables) and Allowance for Loan Losses (Continued)

        The following table shows the credit quality breakdown of our commercial loan portfolio by class as of December 31:

 
  Commercial   Commercial
Mortgage
  Commercial
Construction
  Consumer
Construction
  Total  
 
  2012   2011   2012   2011   2012   2011   2012   2011   2012   2011  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

RR8

  $ 2,678   $ 5,672   $ 26,262   $ 26,677   $ 10,708   $ 17,105   $   $   $ 39,648   $ 49,454  

RR7

    7,268     9,051     17,174     17,065     10,355     9,152             34,797     35,268  

RR6

    9,966     10,208     48,754     39,722     15,151     13,132             73,871     63,062  

RR5

    16,008     19,825     101,312     122,880     12,781     12,013         136     130,101     154,854  

RR4

    11,971     7,074     67,044     117,088     907     2,947     18,837     16,144     98,759     143,253  

RR3

        1,000     3,168     3,098                     3,168     4,098  

RR1

    16     12                             16     12  
                                           

  $ 47,907   $ 52,842   $ 263,714   $ 326,530   $ 49,902   $ 54,349   $ 18,837   $ 16,280   $ 380,360   $ 450,001  
                                           

        We do not individually grade residential mortgage or consumer loans. Such loans are classified as performing or nonperforming. Loan performance is reviewed each quarter. The following table shows performing and nonperforming (nonaccrual) residential mortgage and consumer loans by class as of December 31:

 
  Residential
Mortgage
  Home Equity &
2nd Mortgage
  Other
Consumer
  Total  
 
  2012   2011   2012   2011   2012   2011   2012   2011  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Nonaccrual loans

  $ 8,826   $ 7,585   $ 961   $ 905   $ 12   $   $ 9,799   $ 8,490  

Performing loans

    102,519     113,534     100,844     108,539     16,874     21,187     220,237     243,260  
                                   

  $ 111,345   $ 121,119   $ 101,805   $ 109,444   $ 16,886   $ 21,187   $ 230,036   $ 251,750  
                                   

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(5) Loans Receivable (Financing Receivables) and Allowance for Loan Losses (Continued)

        The following tables show the aging of our loans receivable by class at December 31. Also included are loans that are 90 days or more past due as to interest and principal and still accruing (because they are well-secured and in the process of collection).

 
  2012  
 
  31 - 59 Days
Past Due
  60 - 89 Days
Past Due
  90 Days
or More
Past Due
  Total
Past Due
  Current   Total
Loans
  90 Days
or More
and Accruing
 
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Commercial

  $ 221   $   $ 2,110   $ 2,331   $ 45,576   $ 47,907   $  

Commercial mortgage

    8,233     1,698     21,269     31,200     232,514     263,714      

Commercial construction

    2,127         4,637     6,764     43,138     49,902      

Consumer construction

    1,075     331     645     2,051     16,786     18,837      

Residential mortgage

    6,847     7,650     9,048     23,545     87,800     111,345     222  

Home equity and 2nd mortgage

    1,287     416     961     2,664     99,141     101,805      

Other consumer

    13     7     12     32     16,854     16,886      
                               

  $ 19,803   $ 10,102   $ 38,682   $ 68,587   $ 541,809   $ 610,396   $ 222  
                               

 

 
  2011  
 
  31 - 59 Days
Past Due
  60 - 89 Days
Past Due
  90 Days
or More
Past Due
  Total
Past Due
  Current   Total
Loans
  90 Days
or More
and Accruing
 
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Commercial

  $ 477   $   $ 4,596   $ 5,073   $ 47,769   $ 52,842   $ 30  

Commercial mortgage

    12,630     4,116     18,227     34,973     291,557     326,530     1,272  

Commercial construction

        5,170     7,981     13,151     41,198     54,349     2,032  

Consumer construction

    306         956     1,262     15,018     16,280     238  

Residential mortgage

    6,266         10,085     16,351     104,768     121,119     2,500  

Home equity and 2nd mortgage

    3,203     251     1,142     4,596     104,848     109,444     237  

Other consumer

    283     137     7     427     20,760     21,187     7  
                               

  $ 23,165   $ 9,674   $ 42,994   $ 75,833   $ 625,918   $ 701,751   $ 6,316  
                               

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(5) Loans Receivable (Financing Receivables) and Allowance for Loan Losses (Continued)

        Impaired loans include nonaccrual loans and TDRs. The following tables show the breakout of impaired loans by class at December 31:

 
  2012  
 
  Recorded
Investment
  Unpaid
Principal
Balance
  Related
Allowance
  Average
Recorded
Investment
  Interest
Income
Recognized
  Charge-Offs  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

With no related allowance:

                                     

Commercial

  $ 2,535   $ 2,535   $   $ 3,623   $ 32   $ 360  

Commercial mortgage

  $ 32,561   $ 32,561   $   $ 26,330   $ 491   $ 933  

Commercial construction

  $ 11,692   $ 11,692   $   $ 12,811   $ 86   $ 409  

Consumer construction

  $ 645   $ 645   $   $ 652   $ 27   $ 7  

Residential mortgage

  $ 11,776   $ 11,776   $   $ 9,942   $ 349   $ 2,018  

Home equity & 2nd mortgage

  $ 1,235   $ 1,235   $   $ 1,039   $ 5   $ 2,169  

Other consumer

  $ 12   $ 12   $   $ 8   $   $  

With a related allowance:

                                     

Commercial

    7,150     7,283     133     2,950     103      

Commercial mortgage

    1,734     1,757     23     3,656     26      

Commercial construction

                         

Consumer construction

                         

Residential mortgage

    6,243     6,414     171     7,939     275     381  

Home equity & 2nd mortgage

                         

Other consumer

                         

Totals:

                                     

Commercial

  $ 9,685   $ 9,818   $ 133   $ 6,573   $ 135   $ 360  

Commercial mortgage

  $ 34,295   $ 34,318   $ 23   $ 29,986   $ 517   $ 933  

Commercial construction

  $ 11,692   $ 11,692   $   $ 12,811   $ 86   $ 409  

Consumer construction

  $ 645   $ 645   $   $ 652   $ 27   $ 7  

Residential mortgage

  $ 18,019   $ 18,190   $ 171   $ 17,881   $ 624   $ 2,399  

Home equity & 2nd mortgage

  $ 1,235   $ 1,235   $   $ 1,039   $ 5   $ 2,169  

Other consumer

  $ 12   $ 12   $   $ 8   $   $  

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(5) Loans Receivable (Financing Receivables) and Allowance for Loan Losses (Continued)


 
  2011  
 
  Recorded
Investment
  Unpaid
Principal
Balance
  Related
Allowance
  Average
Recorded
Investment
  Interest
Income
Recognized
  Charge-Offs  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

With no related allowance:

                                     

Commercial

  $ 4,804   $ 4,804   $   $ 2,719   $ 155   $ 5,484  

Commercial mortgage

  $ 21,039   $ 21,039   $   $ 20,966   $ 483   $ 3,207  

Commercial construction

  $ 11,066   $ 11,066   $   $ 12,114   $ 67   $ 730  

Consumer construction

  $ 718   $ 718   $   $ 842   $ 32   $ 43  

Residential mortgage

  $ 8,723   $ 8,723   $   $ 10,066   $ 260   $ 1,780  

Home equity & 2nd mortgage

  $ 905   $ 905   $   $ 913   $ 18   $ 2,868  

Other consumer

  $   $   $   $ 134   $   $  

With a related allowance:

                                     

Commercial

    157     161     4     63     2      

Commercial mortgage

    5,249     5,306     57     4,150     73     128  

Commercial construction

                266          

Consumer construction

                112          

Residential mortgage

    9,075     9,297     222     11,526     378     940  

Home equity & 2nd mortgage

                14          

Other consumer

                         

Totals:

                                     

Commercial

  $ 4,961   $ 4,965   $ 4   $ 2,782   $ 157   $ 5,484  

Commercial mortgage

  $ 26,288   $ 26,345   $ 57   $ 25,116   $ 556   $ 3,335  

Commercial construction

  $ 11,066   $ 11,066   $   $ 12,380   $ 67   $ 730  

Consumer construction

  $ 718   $ 718   $   $ 954   $ 32   $ 43  

Residential mortgage

  $ 17,798   $ 18,020   $ 222   $ 21,592   $ 638   $ 2,720  

Home equity & 2nd mortgage

  $ 905   $ 905   $   $ 927   $ 18   $ 2,868  

Other consumer

  $   $   $   $ 134   $   $  

        The following table shows loans on nonaccrual status by class as of December 31:

 
  2012   2011  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Commercial

  $ 2,110   $ 4,566  

Commercial mortgage

    21,269     16,955  

Commercial construction

    4,637     5,949  

Consumer construction

    645     718  

Residential mortgage

    8,826     7,585  

Home equity and 2nd mortgage

    973     905  
           

  $ 38,460   $ 36,678  
           

        The interest which would have been recorded on nonaccrual loans if those loans had been performing in accordance with their contractual terms was approximately $1.7 million, $2.2 million, and

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(5) Loans Receivable (Financing Receivables) and Allowance for Loan Losses (Continued)

$3.6 million in 2012, 2011, and 2010, respectively. The actual interest income recorded on those loans in 2012, 2011, and 2010 was approximately $552,000, $827,000, and $1.6 million, respectively.

        The following table shows the breakdown of loans we modified during the years ended December 31:

 
  2012   2011  
 
  Number of
Modifications
  Recorded
Investment
Prior to
Modification
  Recorded
Investment
After
Modification
  Number of
Modifications
  Recorded
Investment
Prior to
Modification
  Recorded
Investment
After
Modification
 
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Commercial

    3   $ 7,336   $ 7,336     4   $ 699   $ 424  

Commercial mortgage

    10     4,668     4,676     10     7,821     7,821  

Commercial construction

    3     7,427     7,427              

Residential mortgage

    1     863     863     1     566     579  
                           

    17   $ 20,294   $ 20,302     15   $ 9,086   $ 8,824  
                           

 

 
  2010  
 
  Number of
Modifications
  Recorded
Investment
Prior to
Modification
  Recorded
Investment
After
Modification
 
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Commercial mortgage

    3   $ 3,087   $ 3,247  

Commercial construction

    6     5,177     5,177  

Residential mortgage

    17     11,027     11,066  

Home equity and 2nd mortgage

    10     1,148     1,148  
               

    36   $ 20,439   $ 20,638  
               

        The majority of our TDRs are the result of renewals where the only concession is that the interest rate is not considered to be a market rate. As such, the best illustration of the financial impact of the TDRs is the effect on the allowance for loan losses.

        During the year ended December 31, 2012, we increased the allowance for loan losses for TDRs by a total of $44,000 ($129,000 for commercial, partially offset by reductions of $34,000 for commercial mortgage and $51,000 for residential mortgage). During the year ended December 31, 2011, we reduced the allowance for loan losses for TDRs by a total of $305,000 ($31,000 for commercial mortgage, $14,000 for commercial construction, and $264,000 for residential mortgage, partially offset by an increase of $4,000 for commercial). Additionally, during the year ended December 31, 2012, we charged-off approximately $312,000 in residential mortgage TDRs, $136,000 in commercial construction TDRs, and $137,000 in commercial mortgage TDRs and during the year ended December 31, 2011, we charged off approximately $673,000 in residential mortgage TDRs and $130,000 in commercial mortgage TDRs.

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(5) Loans Receivable (Financing Receivables) and Allowance for Loan Losses (Continued)

        The following table shows modifications made during the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010 that defaulted in the subsequent year:

 
  2012   2011   2010  
 
  Number of
Modifications
  Recorded
Investment
  Number of
Modifications
  Recorded
Investment
  Number of
Modifications
  Recorded
Investment
 
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Commercial

    1   $ 22       $     2   $ 2,850  

Residential mortgage

                    4     1,123  
                           

    1   $ 22       $     6   $ 3,973  
                           

        Total TDRs as of December 31, 2012 and 2011 amounted to $46.0 million and $27.8 million, respectively, of which $8.5 million and $2.5 million, respectively, were also in nonaccrual status.

(6) Premises and Equipment

        We own property and equipment as follows at December 31:

 
  2012   2011  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Land

  $ 11,350   $ 11,102  

Buildings and improvements

    27,783     27,341  

Leasehold improvements

    7,145     9,299  

Furniture, fixtures, automobiles, and equipment

    27,508     26,132  
           

Total, at cost

    73,786     73,874  

Less: accumulated depreciation and amortization

    (36,135 )   (35,596 )
           

Net premises and equipment

  $ 37,651   $ 38,278  
           

        Depreciation and amortization expense for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010 was $2.7 million, $3.2 million, and $3.9 million, respectively.

        We lease various branch and general office facilities to conduct our operations. The leases have remaining terms which range from a period of less than 1 year to 25 years. Most leases contain renewal options which are generally exercisable at increased rates. Some of the leases provide for increases in the rental rates at specified times during the lease terms, prior to the expiration dates.

        The leases generally provide for payment of property taxes, insurance, and maintenance costs by the Company. The total rental expense for all real property leases amounted to $4.7 million, $5.1 million, and $5.5 million for 2012, 2011, and 2010, respectively.

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(6) Premises and Equipment (Continued)

        Our minimum lease payments due for each of the next five years are as follows:

(dollars in thousands)
   
 

2013

  $ 4,508  

2014

    4,272  

2015

    3,900  

2016

    2,722  

2017

    485  

Thereafter

    432  
       

  $ 16,319  
       

(7) Deposits

        Deposits are summarized as follows at December 31:

 
  2012   2011  
 
  Amount   Weighted-
Average
Effective
Rate
  Amount   Weighted-
Average
Effective
Rate
 
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Noncertificate:

                         

NOW

  $ 4,681     0.83 % $ 9,388     0.27 %

Savings

    60,729     0.43 %   54,977     0.19 %

Money market

    153,756     0.55 %   121,738     0.56 %

Noninterest-bearing demand

    109,966           100,303        
                       

Total noncertificate deposits

    329,132           286,406        
                       

Certificates of deposit:

                         

Original maturities:

                         

Under 12 months

    3,566     0.35 %   248,797     1.58 %

12 to 60 months

    801,681     1.41 %   424,659     2.14 %

IRA and KEOGH

    52,451     2.04 %   54,898     2.47 %
                       

Total certificates of deposit

    857,698           728,354        
                       

Total deposits

  $ 1,186,830         $ 1,014,760        
                       

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(7) Deposits (Continued)

        Time deposits mature as follows:

 
  2012   2011  
 
  Amount   % of
Total
  Amount   % of
Total
 
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Within 6 months

  $ 169,833     19.8 % $ 237,682     32.6 %

Over 6 months - 12 months

    356,082     41.5 %   227,768     31.3 %

Over 12 months - 24 months

    257,241     30.0 %   183,702     25.2 %

Over 24 months - 36 months

    43,427     5.1 %   43,419     6.0 %

Over 36 months - 48 months

    13,344     1.5 %   23,401     3.2 %

Over 48 months

    17,771     2.1 %   12,382     1.7 %
                   

  $ 857,698     100.0 % $ 728,354     100.0 %
                   

        The Bank offers certain certificate products that provide customers a "one-time" withdrawal option that the customer may exercise at any time without penalty. As of December 31, 2012, certificates that permitted early withdrawal totaled $105.6 million.

        Certificates of deposit of $100,000 or more totaled $628.4 million and $463.9 million at December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

        At December 31, 2012, we had pledged securities with an aggregate carrying value (fair value) of $3.0 million for certain customer and federal deposits.

(8) Borrowings

        Our borrowings consist of short-term promissory notes, short-term and long-term advances from the FHLB, and a mortgage loan.

        The FHLB advances are available under a specific collateral pledge and security agreement, which requires that we maintain collateral for all of our borrowings equal to 125% of advances. We may pledge as collateral specific first- and second-lien mortgage loans or commercial mortgages up to 10% of the Bank's total assets. Long-term FHLB advances are fixed-rate instruments with various call provisions. Short-term advances are in the form of overnight borrowings with rates changing daily. As of December 31, 2012, our total available credit line with the FHLB was $129.4 million. Our outstanding balance at December 31, 2012 and 2011 was $117.0 million and $111.0 million, respectively.

        The mortgage loan on our former headquarters building is with a commercial bank on which we pay a fixed rate of 5.58% until maturity in 2031. The carrying value of the property securing the loan was approximately $17.8 million as of December 31, 2012.

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(8) Borrowings (Continued)

        Certain information regarding our borrowings is as follows as of December 31:

 
  2012   2011   2010  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Amount outstanding at year-end:

                   

FHLB short-term advances

  $ 52,000   $ 46,000   $ 82,000  

Short-term promissory notes

    1,466     1,981     2,399  

FHLB long-term advances

    65,000     65,000     25,000  

Mortgage loan

    8,515     8,698     8,888  

Weighted-average interest rate at year-end:

                   

FHLB short-term advances

    0.21 %   0.27 %   0.51 %

Short-term promissory notes

    0.59 %   0.56 %   0.51 %

FHLB long-term advances

    2.25 %   2.25 %   4.00 %

Mortgage loan

    5.58 %   5.58 %   5.58 %

Maximum outstanding at any month-end:

                   

FHLB short-term advances

  $ 52,000   $ 82,000   $ 82,000  

Short-term promissory notes

    1,862     2,127     4,909  

FHLB long-term advances

    65,000     65,000     86,342  

Mortgage loan

    8,698     8,873     9,067  

Average outstanding:

                   

FHLB short-term advances

  $ 46,251   $ 64,025   $ 53,816  

Short-term promissory notes

    1,550     1,781     2,751  

FHLB long-term advances

    65,000     42,822     53,684  

Mortgage loan

    8,607     8,800     8,984  

Weighted-average interest rate during the year:

                   

FHLB short-term advances

    0.26 %   0.40 %   0.62 %

Short-term promissory notes

    0.58 %   0.56 %   0.55 %

FHLB long-term advances

    2.28 %   2.94 %   3.32 %

Mortgage loan

    5.66 %   5.66 %   5.66 %

        $40.0 million of our long-term borrowings mature in 2014, $25.0 million mature in 2020, but are callable immediately at the option of the issuer, and the remaining $8.5 million mature in 2031.

        At December 31, 2012, we had pledged securities with an aggregate carrying value (fair value) of $26.5 million and loans with a carrying value of $101.2 million as collateral for FHLB advances. We had also pledged securities with an aggregate carrying value (fair value) of $2.1 million as collateral for short-term promissory notes.

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(9) Junior Subordinated Deferrable Interest Debentures

        The following table shows the subordinated debt issued by First Mariner Bancorp and the related Trust Preferred Securities issued at both December 31, 2012 and 2011 (dollars in thousands):

Trust
  Subordinated
Debt Issued
to Trust
  Trust
Preferred
Securities
Issued by
Trust
  Date of
Original Issue
  Stated
Maturity

MCT II

  $ 6,186   $ 6,000   December 10, 2002   December 10, 2032

MCT III

    14,949     14,500   June 18, 2003   July 7, 2033

MCT IV

    5,158     5,000   August 18, 2003   August 18, 2033

MCT V

    10,310     10,000   September 25, 2003   October 8, 2033

MCT VI

    10,310     10,000   October 21, 2004   January 7, 2035

MCT VII

    5,155     5,000   August 18, 2005   September 15, 2035
                 

  $ 52,068   $ 50,500        
                 

        First Mariner issued junior subordinated deferrable interest debentures to six statutory trust subsidiaries, Mariner Capital Trust ("MCT") II, MCT III, MCT IV, MCT V, MCT VI, and MCT VII (collectively, the "Trusts"). The Trusts are Delaware business trusts for which all the common securities are owned by First Mariner and which were formed for the purpose of issuing trust preferred securities. In accordance with FASB guidance, we have deconsolidated the Trusts, and their financial position and results of operations are not included in our consolidated financial position and results of operations. The payment and redemption terms of the debentures and related Trust Preferred Securities are substantially identical.

        The Trust Preferred Securities are mandatorily redeemable, in whole or in part, upon repayment of their underlying subordinated debt at their respective maturities or their earlier redemption date at our option. All redemption dates have passed and we have not opted to redeem any of the junior subordinated deferrable interest debentures.

        As of December 31, 2012, all of the Trust Preferred Securities are Floating Rate Trust Preferred Securities, which accrue interest equal to the 3-month LIBOR rate plus varying basis points as follows: MCT II—335 basis points; MCT III—325 basis points; MCT IV—305 basis points; MCT V—310 basis points; MCT VI—205 basis points; and MCT VII—195 basis points.

        The interest expense (including amortization of the cost of issuance) on junior subordinated deferrable interest debentures was $1.7 million in 2012, $1.6 million in 2011, and $1.9 million in 2010. In 2009, we elected to defer interest payments on the debentures. This deferral is permitted by the terms of the debentures and does not constitute an event of default thereunder. Interest on the debentures and dividends on the related Trust Preferred Securities continue to accrue and will have to be paid in full prior to the expiration of the deferral period. The total deferral period may not exceed 20 consecutive quarters and expires with the last quarter of 2013.

        The junior subordinated deferrable interest debentures are the sole assets of the Trusts. First Mariner has fully and unconditionally guaranteed all of the obligations of the Trusts.

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(9) Junior Subordinated Deferrable Interest Debentures (Continued)

        Under applicable regulatory guidelines, a portion of the Trust Preferred Securities may qualify as Tier I capital and the remaining portion may qualify as Tier II capital, with certain limitations. At December 31, 2012, none of our outstanding Trust Preferred Securities qualify as either Tier I or Tier II capital due to limitations.

(10) Regulatory Matters, Capital Adequacy, and Liquidity

Regulatory matters and capital adequacy

        Various regulatory capital requirements administered by the federal banking agencies apply to First Mariner and the Bank. Failure to meet minimum capital requirements can initiate certain mandatory, and possibly additional discretionary, actions by regulators that, if undertaken, could have a direct material effect on our financial statements. Under capital adequacy guidelines and the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action, the Bank must meet specific capital guidelines that involve quantitative measures of assets, liabilities, and certain off-balance sheet items as calculated under regulatory accounting practices. The Bank's capital amounts and classification are also subject to qualitative judgments by the regulators about components, risk weightings, and other factors.

        Quantitative measures established by regulation to ensure capital adequacy require the Bank to maintain minimum amounts and ratios of total and Tier I capital to risk-weighted assets, and of Tier I capital to average quarterly assets ("leverage"). As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Bank was "undercapitalized" and "significantly undercapitalized," respectively, under the regulatory framework

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(10) Regulatory Matters, Capital Adequacy, and Liquidity (Continued)

for prompt corrective action. Our regulatory capital amounts and ratios as of December 31, 2012 and 2011 were as follows:

 
   
   
   
   
  To be Well
Capitalized
Under
Prompt
Corrective
Action Provision
 
 
   
   
  Minimum
Requirements
for Capital
Adequacy
Purposes
 
 
  Actual
Amount
   
 
 
  Ratio   Amount   Ratio   Amount   Ratio  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

As of December 31, 2012:

                                     

Total capital (to risk-weighted assets):

                                     

Consolidated

  $ (6,525 )   (0.8 )%   67,262     8.0 % $ 84,078     10.0 %

Bank

    61,292     7.3 %   67,073     8.0 %   83,841     10.0 %

Tier I capital (to risk-weighted assets):

                                     

Consolidated

    (6,525 )   (0.8 )%   33,631     4.0 %   50,447     6.0 %

Bank

    50,777     6.1 %   33,536     4.0 %   50,304     6.0 %

Tier I capital (to average quarterly assets):

                                     

Consolidated

    (6,525 )   (0.5 )%   52,932     4.0 %   66,165     5.0 %

Bank

    50,777     3.8 %   52,873     4.0 %   66,091     5.0 %

As of December 31, 2011:

                                     

Total capital (to risk-weighted assets):

                                     

Consolidated

  $ (22,393 )   (2.6 )% $ 68,242     8.0 % $ 85,302     10.0 %

Bank

    46,659     5.5 %   68,243     8.0 %   85,304     10.0 %

Tier I capital (to risk-weighted assets):

                                     

Consolidated

    (22,393 )   (2.6 )%   34,121     4.0 %   51,181     6.0 %

Bank

    35,935     4.2 %   34,122     4.0 %   51,183     6.0 %

Tier I capital (to average quarterly assets):

                                     

Consolidated

    (22,393 )   (1.9 )%   47,533     4.0 %   59,416     5.0 %

Bank

    35,935     3.0 %   47,468     4.0 %   59,335     5.0 %

        The FDIC, through the Deposit Insurance Fund, insures deposits of accountholders up to $250,000. The Bank pays an annual premium to provide for this insurance.

        The Bank is a member of the FHLB System and is required to maintain an investment in the stock of the FHLB based on specific percentages of outstanding mortgages, total assets, or FHLB advances. Purchases and sales of stock are made directly with the Bank at par value.

        On September 18, 2009, the Bank entered into an Agreement with the FDIC and the Commissioner of Financial Regulation for the state of Maryland (the "Commissioner"), pursuant to which it consented to the entry of an Order to Cease and Desist ("the September Order"), which directs the Bank to (i) increase its capitalization, (ii) improve earnings, (iii) reduce nonperforming loans, (iv) strengthen management policies and practices, and (v) reduce reliance on noncore funding. The September Order required the Bank to adopt a plan to achieve and maintain a leverage capital ratio of at least 7.5% and a total risk-based capital ratio of at least 11% by June 30, 2010. We did not meet the requirements at June 30, 2010, December 31, 2010, December 31, 2011, or December 31, 2012. The failure to achieve these capital requirements could result in further action by our regulators.

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(10) Regulatory Matters, Capital Adequacy, and Liquidity (Continued)

        As part of the September Order, within 30 days after the end of each calendar year, the Bank must submit an annual budget and profit plan and a plan that takes into account the Bank's pricing structure, the Bank's cost of funds and how this can be reduced, and the level of provision expense for adversely classified loans. To address reliance on noncore funding, the Bank was required to submit a liquidity plan intended to reduce the Bank's reliance on noncore funding, wholesale funding sources, and high-cost rate-sensitive deposits. While the September Order is in effect, the Bank may not pay dividends or management fees without the FDIC's prior consent, may not accept, renew, or roll over any brokered deposits, and is restricted in the yields that it may pay on deposits.

        First Mariner Bancorp is also a party to agreements with the FRB (the "FRB Agreements"), which, together, require it to: (i) develop and implement a strategic business plan that includes (a) actions that will be taken to improve our operating performance and reduce the level of parent company leverage, (b) a comprehensive budget and an expanded budget review process, (c) a description of the operating assumptions that form the basis for major projected income and expense components and provisions needed to maintain an adequate loan loss reserve, and (d) a capital plan incorporating all capital needs, risks, and regulatory guidelines; and (ii) submit plans to improve enterprise-wide risk management and effectiveness of internal audit programs. First Mariner Bancorp has also agreed to provide the FRB with advance notice of any significant capital transactions. The FRB Agreements also prohibit First Mariner and the Bank from taking any of the following actions without the FRB's prior written approval: (i) declaring or paying any dividends; (ii) taking dividends from the Bank; (iii) making any distributions of interest, principal, or other sums on First Mariner's subordinated debentures or trust preferred securities; (iv) incurring, increasing, or guaranteeing any debt; or (v) repurchasing or redeeming any shares of its stock. To satisfy the FRB's minimum capital requirements, First Mariner's consolidated Tier I capital to average quarterly assets, Tier I capital to risk-weighted assets, and total capital to risk-weighted assets ratios at each quarter end must be at least 4.0%, 4.0%, and 8.0%, respectively. At December 31, 2012, those capital ratios were (0.5)%, (0.8)%, and (0.8)%, respectively, which were not in compliance with the minimum requirements. The failure to achieve these capital requirements could result in further action by our regulators.

        The foregoing will subject us to increased regulatory scrutiny and may have an adverse impact on our business operations. Failure to comply with the provisions of these regulatory requirements may result in more restrictive actions from our regulators, including more severe and restrictive enforcement actions.

Liquidity

        The Bank's principal sources of liquidity are cash and cash equivalents (which are cash on hand and amounts due from financial institutions, federal funds sold, money market mutual funds, and interest bearing deposits), AFS securities, deposit accounts, and borrowings. The levels of such sources are dependent on the Bank's operating, financing, and investing activities at any given time. We attempt to primarily rely on core deposits from customers to provide stable and cost-effective sources of funding to support our loan growth. We also seek to augment such deposits with longer term and higher yielding certificates of deposit. Cash and cash equivalents, which totaled $185.8 million at December 31, 2012, have immediate availability to meet our short-term funding needs. Our entire securities portfolio is classified as AFS, is highly marketable (excluding our holdings of pooled trust

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(10) Regulatory Matters, Capital Adequacy, and Liquidity (Continued)

preferred securities), and is available to meet our liquidity needs. Additional sources of liquidity include LHFS, which totaled $404.3 million at December 31, 2012, are committed to be sold into the secondary market, and generally are funded within 60 days and our residential real estate portfolio, which includes loans that are underwritten to secondary market criteria. Additionally, our residential construction loan portfolio provides a source of liquidity as construction periods generally range from 9-12 months, and these loans are subsequently refinanced with permanent first-lien mortgages and sold into the secondary market. We may also, from time to time, sell performing commercial or consumer loans to enhance our liquidity position.

(11) Employee Benefit Plans—Stock Options and Warrants

        We have stock option plans, which provide for the granting of options to acquire First Mariner common stock to our directors and key employees. Option exercise prices are equal to or greater than the fair market value of the common stock on the date of the grant.

        We account for stock options issued under our stockholder-approved Long-Term Incentive Plan (the "Plan") and warrants in accordance with FASB guidance on share-based payments. The plan permits the granting of share options and shares to our directors and key employees. Option exercise prices are equal to or greater than the fair market value of the common stock on the date of the grant. We recognized stock based compensation cost of $5,000 and $29,000 for the years ended December 31, 2011, and 2010, respectively. As of December 31, 2011, all compensation expense related to currently outstanding options and warrants had been recognized.

        As of December 31, 2012, all options and warrants to purchase shares of common stock were fully vested. All options expire 10 years after the date of grant. The warrants expire five years after date of issuance.

        Information with respect to stock options and warrants is as follows for the years ended December 31:

 
  2012   2011  
 
  Number
of Shares
  Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price
  Weighted-
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term
(in years)
  Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value
(in thousands)
  Number
of Shares
  Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price
  Weighted-
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term
(in years)
  Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value
(in thousands)
 

Outstanding at beginning of year

    836,228   $ 7.98                 930,228   $ 7.92              

Forfeited/cancelled

    (246,750 )   12.45                 (94,000 )   3.17              
                                               

Outstanding at end of year

    589,478     6.12     2.2   $     836,228     7.98     2.7   $  
                                       

Exercisable at end of year

    589,478     6.12     2.2   $     836,228     7.98     2.7   $  
                                       

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(11) Employee Benefit Plans—Stock Options and Warrants (Continued)


 
  2010  
 
  Number
of Shares
  Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price
  Weighted-
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term
(in years)
  Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value
(in thousands)
 

Outstanding at beginning of year

    668,593   $ 12.20              

Granted

    366,174     1.15              

Forfeited/cancelled

    (104,539 )   11.54              
                         

Outstanding at end of year

    930,228     7.92     3.4   $  
                     

Exercisable at end of year

    928,228     7.93     3.4   $  
                     

        The weighted average fair value of the warrants issued for the year ended December 31, 2010 was $0.74. There were no options granted or warrants issued in 2012 or 2011. The fair value of the warrants was calculated using the Black-Scholes-Merton option-pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions for the year ended December 31, 2010:

Dividend yield

     

Expected volatility

    92.87 %

Risk-free interest rate

    2.60 %

Expected lives

    5 years  

        There were no options or warrants exercised during 2012, 2011, or 2010.

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(11) Employee Benefit Plans—Stock Options and Warrants (Continued)

        Options and warrants outstanding are summarized as follows at December 31, 2012:

Exercise Price
  Options and Warrants
Outstanding and
Exercisable (shares)
  Weighted Average
Remaining
Contractual Life
(in years)
 

$1.09

    18,348     2.5  

  1.15

    347,826     2.2  

  4.15

    11,200     5.3  

  5.41

    2,754     5.0  

  5.70

    19,500     5.2  

  11.68

    52,250     *  

  11.95

    600     *  

  13.00

    700     0.3  

  13.33

    7,300     4.3  

  13.52

    3,000     0.3  

  16.67

    4,800     2.3  

  16.70

    1,800     2.8  

  16.95

    2,300     0.8  

  17.45

    16,250     3.0  

  17.77

    70,850     2.1  

  18.20

    4,950     1.3  

  18.38

    16,650     1.0  

  18.94

    2,350     3.9  

  19.30

    6,050     3.3  
             

    589,478        
             

*
less than 30 days weighted average remaining contractual life

(12) Income (Loss) Per Share

        Basic income (loss) per share is computed by dividing income (loss) available to common stockholders by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted income (loss) per share is computed after adjusting the denominator of the basic income (loss) per share computation for the effects of all dilutive potential common shares outstanding during the period. The dilutive effects of options, warrants, and their equivalents are computed using the "treasury stock" method. For the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, all options and warrants were antidilutive and excluded from the computations.

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(12) Income (Loss) Per Share (Continued)

        Information relating to the calculations of our income (loss) per common share is summarized as follows for the years ended December 31:

 
  2012   2011   2010  
 
  (dollars in thousands, except for per share data)
 

Weighted-average share outstanding—basic and diluted

    18,860,482     18,693,779     14,769,211  
               

Net income (loss) from continuing operations

  $ 16,117   $ (30,244 ) $ (46,389 )

Loss from discontinued operations

            (200 )
               

Net income (loss)

  $ 16,117   $ (30,244 ) $ (46,589 )
               

Basic and Diluted:

                   

Net income (loss) from continuing operations

  $ 0.85   $ (1.62 ) $ (3.14 )

Loss from discontinued operations

            (0.01 )
               

Net income (loss)

  $ 0.85   $ (1.62 ) $ (3.15 )
               

(13) Other Expenses

        The following summarizes our other noninterest expenses for the years ended December 31:

 
  2012   2011   2010  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Office supplies

  $ 573   $ 440   $ 468  

Printing

    406     308     406  

Marketing/promotion

    838     755     951  

Overnight delivery/courier

    622     392     436  

Security

    270     230     270  

Dues and subscriptions

    461     378     407  

Director fees

    354     332     313  

Employee education and training

    112     57     94  

Automobile expense

    108     109     135  

Travel and entertainment

    289     237     173  

Other

    1,805     1,853     2,593  
               

  $ 5,838   $ 5,091   $ 6,246  
               

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(14) Income Taxes

        Our income tax expense (benefit) from continuing operations consists of the following for the years ended December 31:

 
  2012   2011   2010  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Current

  $ (375 ) $ (3,017 ) $ (8,955 )

Deferred

    538     2,411     28,086  
               

Income tax expense (benefit)—continuing operations

  $ 163   $ (606 ) $ 19,131  
               

        The income tax expense (benefit) from continuing operations is reconciled to the amount computed by applying the federal corporate tax rate of 35% to the net loss before taxes and discontinued operations as follows for the years ended December 31:

 
  2012   2011   2010  
 
  Amount   Rate   Amount   Rate   Amount   Rate  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Tax at statutory federal rate

  $ 5,698     35.0 % $ (10,798 )   (35.0 )% $ (9,540 )   (35.0 )%

State income taxes, net of federal income tax benefit

            (1,711 )   (5.5 )%   (530 )   (2.0 )%

Change in valuation allowance

    (8,664 )   (53.2 )%   11,368     36.8 %   24,534     90.0 %

Debt exchange

                    6,441     23.6 %

BOLI

    (393 )   (2.4 )%   (452 )   (1.5 )%   (495 )   (1.8 )%

Insurance income

    60     0.4 %   27     0.1 %   (72 )   (0.3 )%

Federal and state income tax credits

    (337 )   (2.1 )%   (763 )   (2.5 )%   (768 )   (2.8 )%

NOL carryforward

    4,673     28.7 %                

Other

    (874 )   (5.4 )%   1,723     5.6 %   (439 )   (1.6 )%
                           

  $ 163     1.0 % $ (606 )   (2.0 )% $ 19,131     70.1 %
                           

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(14) Income Taxes (Continued)

        The tax effects of temporary differences between the financial reporting basis and income tax basis of assets and liabilities relate to the following at December 31:

 
  2012   2011  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Deferred tax assets:

             

Allowance for losses on loans

  $ 4,645   $ 5,607  

Amortization of intangible assets

    42     55  

Real estate acquired through foreclosure

    3,692     3,434  

State net operating loss carryforward

    5,930     7,326  

Federal net operating loss carryforward

    16,956     22,924  

OTTI

    3,310     3,894  

Nonaccrual interest

    453     571  

Depreciation

    259     102  

Federal AMT credit carryforward

    500      

Other

    84     84  
           

Total gross deferred tax assets

    35,871     43,997  

Less: valuation allowance

    (36,553 )   (45,217 )
           

Net deferred tax asset attributable to operations

    (682 )   (1,220 )

Unrealized loss on investments charged to other comprehensive loss

    682     1,220  
           

Net deferred tax assets

  $   $  
           

        During 2010, we established a valuation allowance for the full amount of our net deferred tax assets, which we maintained through 2012.

        The Bank has earned significant state tax incentives totaling $5.5 million through its participation in the One Maryland Economic Development ("One Maryland") and Job Creation Tax Credit programs. We will realize the benefits of the incentives in our reported earnings as the credits can be utilized, in accordance with accounting standards that govern the recognition of investment tax credits. The amount of the credit that we can utilize will be determined by the level of Maryland taxable income for the Bank only and will be recognized as a reduction in our income tax expense. During 2012 and 2011, we utilized $362,000 and $606,000, respectively, in credits related to this incentive program. Any unused One Maryland credits can be carried forward and will expire in 2016. The Job Creation Tax Credit can be carried forward for five years. Remaining tax credits amounted to $1.4 million at December 31, 2012.

        Our income tax returns are subject to review and examination by federal and state taxing authorities. We are currently open to audit under the applicable statutes of limitations by the Internal Revenue Service for the years ended December 31, 2009 through 2011. The years open to examination by state taxing authorities vary by jurisdiction.

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(15) Fair Value of Financial Instruments

        We group financial assets and financial liabilities measured at fair value in three levels, based on the markets in which the assets and liabilities are traded and the reliability of the assumptions used to determine fair value. These levels are:

Level 1   Valuations for assets and liabilities traded in active exchange markets. Valuations are obtained from readily available pricing sources for market transactions involving identical assets or liabilities.

Level 2

 

Valuations for assets and liabilities traded in less active dealer or broker markets. Valuations are obtained from third party pricing services for identical or comparable assets or liabilities which use observable inputs other than Level 1 prices, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities.

Level 3

 

Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value of the assets or liabilities.

        We record transfers between levels at the end of the reporting period in which the change in significant inputs occurs.

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(15) Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Continued)

Financial Instruments Measured on a Recurring Basis

        The following tables present fair value measurements for assets, liabilities, and off-balance sheet items that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of and for the years ended December 31:

 
  2012  
 
  Carrying
Value
  Quoted
Prices
(Level 1)
  Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
  Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
  Total Changes
In Fair Values
Included In
Period Income
 
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Securities:

                               

Mortgage-backed securities

  $ 7,134   $   $ 7,134   $   $  

Trust preferred securities

    9,181         8,226     955     (460) (1)

U.S. government agency notes

    33,537         33,537          

U.S. Treasury securities

    5,781         5,781          

Equity securities—banks

    1,256         1,256          

Equity securities—mutual funds

    787         787          
                       

  $ 57,676   $   $ 56,721   $ 955   $ (460 )
                       

Warrants

  $ 248   $   $   $ 248   $  

LHFS

    404,289         404,289         5,628  

IRLCs (notional amount of $404,645)

    410,192         410,192         3,723  

Forward contracts to sell mortgage-backed securities (notional amount of $308,067)

    306,682         306,682         (16,295 )

(1)
Represents net OTTI charges taken on certain Level 3 securities

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(15) Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Continued)


 
  2011  
 
  Carrying
Value
  Quoted
Prices
(Level 1)
  Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
  Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
  Total Changes
In Fair Values
Included In
Period Losses
 
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Securities:

                               

Mortgage-backed securities

  $ 1,959   $   $ 1,959   $   $  

Trust preferred securities

    10,268         9,586     682     (838 )(1)

U.S. government agency notes

    8,518         8,518          

U.S. Treasury securities

    1,004         1,004          

Equity securities—banks

    151         151          

Equity securities—mutual funds

    782         782          
                       

  $ 22,682   $   $ 22,000   $ 682   $ (838 )
                       

Warrants

  $ 18   $   $   $ 18   $  

LHFS

    182,992         182,992         4,164  

IRLCs (notional amount of $138,075)

    139,899         139,899         1,299  

Forward contracts to sell mortgage-backed securities (notional amount of $102,250)

    101,772         101,772         (7,527 )

(1)
Represents net OTTI charges taken on certain Level 3 securities

Level 3 Financial Instruments

        Financial instruments are considered Level 3 when their values are determined using pricing models, discounted cash flow methodologies, or similar techniques and at least one significant model assumption or input is unobservable. Level 3 financial instruments also include those for which the determination of fair value requires significant management judgment or estimation.

AFS Securities

        The fair value of AFS securities is based on bid quotations received from securities dealers, bid prices received from an external pricing service, or modeling utilizing estimated cash flows, depending on the circumstances of the individual security.

        As of December 31, 2012, $955,000 ($10.9 million par value) of our AFS securities (four securities) were classified as Level 3, all of which are pooled trust preferred securities. The market environment has continued to be inactive for these security types and made fair value pricing more subjective. The fair value of these four securities is primarily a function of the credit quality of the issuer, although there is some sensitivity to interest rate changes. A change in the rating of a security will affect its value.

        The amount of Level 3 securities will likely continue to be a function of market conditions and additional security transfers from Level 2 to Level 3 could result if further market inactivity occurs.

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(15) Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Continued)

        The following table details the four Level 3 securities:

 
   
   
  Current
Rating/
Outlook(2)
   
   
   
 
 
   
  Remaining
Par
Value(1)
   
  (3)
Auction
Call Date
  (4)
Index
 
 
  Class   Moody's   Fitch   Maturity  

ALESCO Preferred Funding VII

  C-1   $ 1,000   Ca   C   7/23/2035   MAR 2015     3ML + 1.5 %

ALESCO Preferred Funding XI

  C-1     4,938   C   C   12/23/2036   JUNE 2016     3ML + 1.2 %

MM Community Funding

  B     2,500   Ca   C   8/1/2031   N/A     6ML + 3.1 %

MM Community Funding IX

  B-1     2,416   Ca   CC   5/1/2033   N/A     3ML + 1.8 %

(1)
In thousands
(2)
Ratings as of December 31, 2012.
(3)
Under the terms of the offering, if the notes have not been redeemed in full prior to the indicated call date, then an auction of the collateral debt securities will be conducted and the collateral will be sold and the notes redeemed. If the auction is not successful, the collateral manager will conduct auctions on a quarterly basis until the rated notes are redeemed in full.
(4)
3/6ML—3 or 6 Month LIBOR; LIBOR (London Interbank Offered Rate)—daily reference rate based on the interest rates at which banks offer to lend unsecured funds to other banks in the London wholesale money market or interbank market.

        Classification of Level 3 indicates that significant valuation assumptions are not consistently observable in the market and, as such, fair values are derived using the best available data. We calculated fair value for these four securities by using a present value of future cash flows model, which incorporated assumptions as follows as of December 31, 2012:

 
  Key Model Assumptions Used In Pricing
 
  Cumulative
Default(1)
  Deferrals
Cured(2)
  Credit
MTM(3)(6)
  Liquidity
Premium(4)
  Liquidity
MTM Adj(5)(6)

ALESCO Preferred Funding VII

    50.0 %   4.7 %   $28.45     12.00 %   $25.73

ALESCO Preferred Funding XI

    36.0 %   6.2 %   52.68     12.00 %   40.84

MM Community Funding

    65.0 %   1.9 %   17.63     12.00 %   11.77

MM Community Funding IX

    55.0 %   4.6 %   49.78     12.00 %   41.64

(1)
The anticipated level of total defaults from the issuers within the pool of performing collateral as of December 31, 2012. There are no recoveries assumed on any default.
(2)
Deferrals that are cured occur 60 months after the initial deferral starts.
(3)
The credit mark to market ("MTM") represents the discounted value of future cash flows after the assumption of current and future defaults discounted at the book rate of interest on the security.
(4)
The risk of being unable to sell the instrument for cash at short notice without significant costs, usually indicative of the level of trading activity for a specific security or class of securities.
(5)
The liquidity mark to market adjustment on the security represents the difference between the value of the discounted cash flows based on the book interest rate and the value discounted at the liquidity premium. The credit MTM less the liquidity MTM equals the estimated fair value price of the security.
(6)
Price per $100

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(15) Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Continued)

        Fair values were as follows at December 31:

 
  2012   2011  
 
  Model
Result(1)
  Fair Value
(in thousands)
  Model
Result(1)(2)
  Fair Value
(in thousands)
 

ALESCO Preferred Funding VII

  $ 2.72   $ 27   $ 7.22   $ 72  

ALESCO Preferred Funding XI

    11.84     585     8.80     435  

MM Community Funding

    5.86     146     2.96     74  

MM Community Funding IX

    8.14     197     4.05     101  
                       

        $ 955         $ 682  
                       

(1)
Price per $100
(2)
Based on December 31, 2011 assumptions

        During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010, we determined that, based on our most recent estimate of cash flows at the time, OTTI had occurred in our pooled trust preferred security portfolio. The amount of OTTI that is recognized through earnings is determined by comparing the present value of the expected cash flows to the amortized cost of the security. The discount rate used to determine the credit loss is the expected book yield on the security. The credit loss estimated under the aforementioned method that was charged to operating earnings totaled $460,000, $838,000, and $1.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010, respectively.

Warrants

        As of December 31, 2012, warrants were classified as Level 3. See Note 11 for information related to the calculation of fair value of the warrants.

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(15) Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Continued)

        The table below presents a reconciliation of financial instruments measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) for the years ended December 31:

 
  2012   2011  
 
  Securities   Warrants   Securities   MSRs   Warrants  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Balance at beginning of year

  $ 682   $ 18   $ 987   $ 1,309   $ 137  

MSR amortization

                (135 )    

Change in fair value included in additional paid-in capital

        230             (119 )

Total realized losses included in other comprehensive loss

    (460 )       (838 )        

Reduction due to transfer of servicing rights to NGFS

                (1,174 )    

Total unrealized gains included in other comprehensive loss

    733         533          
                       

Balance at end of year

  $ 955   $ 248   $ 682   $   $ 18  
                       

        There were no transfers between any of Levels 1, 2, and 3 for the years ended December 31, 2012 or 2011.

Other Financial Instruments Measured on a Recurring Basis

LHFS

        LHFS are carried at fair value, which is determined based on outstanding investor commitments or, in the absence of such commitments, based on current investor yield requirements or third party pricing models.

IRLCs

        We engage an experienced third party to estimate the fair market value of our IRLCs, which are valued based upon mandatory pricing quotes from correspondent lenders less estimated costs to process and settle the loan. Fair value is adjusted for the estimated probability of the loan closing with the borrower.

Forward Contracts to Sell Mortgage-Backed Securities

        Fair value of these commitments is determined based upon the quoted market values of the securities.

Financial Instruments Measured on a Nonrecurring Basis

        We may be required, from time to time, to measure certain other financial assets and liabilities at fair value on a nonrecurring basis. These adjustments to fair value usually result from application of LCM accounting or write-downs of individual assets. For assets measured at fair value on a

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(15) Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Continued)

nonrecurring basis, the following tables provide the level of valuation assumptions used to determine each adjustment and the carrying value of the assets as of December 31:

 
  2012  
 
  Carrying
Value
  Quoted
Prices
(Level 1)
  Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
  Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
 
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Impaired loans

  $ 75,910   $   $   $ 75,910  

Real estate acquired through foreclosure

    18,058             18,058  

 

 
  2011  
 
  Carrying
Value
  Quoted
Prices
(Level 1)
  Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
  Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
 
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Impaired loans

  $ 62,019   $   $   $ 62,019  

Real estate acquired through foreclosure

    25,235             25,235  

Impaired Loans

        Allowable methods for estimating fair value for impaired loans include using the fair value of the collateral for collateral dependent loans or, where a loan is determined not to be collateral dependent, using the discounted cash flow method.

        If the impaired loan is identified as collateral dependent, then the fair value method of measuring the amount of impairment is utilized. This method requires obtaining a current independent appraisal or utilizing some other method of valuation for the collateral and applying a discount factor to the value based on our loan review policy and procedures.

        If the impaired loan is determined not to be collateral dependent, then the discounted cash flow method is used. This method requires the impaired loan to be recorded at the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan's effective interest rate. The effective interest rate of a loan is the contractual interest rate adjusted for any net deferred loan fees or costs, premiums, or discounts existing at origination or acquisition of the loan.

        For all loans other than TDRs, a partial charge-off is recorded to reduce the carrying amount of the loan to its fair value. For TDRs that have an estimated fair value that is below the carrying value, an allocation of the loan loss allowance is established and remains part of the allowance until such time that it is determined the loan will proceed to foreclosure or is paid off. Total impaired loans had a carrying value of $75.9 million and $62.0 million as of December 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively, with allocated reserves of $327,000 and $283,000 as of December 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively.

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(15) Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Continued)

        See Note 5 for more detailed information about impaired loans by loan class

Real Estate Acquired Through Foreclosure

        We record foreclosed real estate assets at the LCM on their acquisition dates and at the lower of such initial amount or estimated fair value less estimated selling costs thereafter. Estimated fair value is generally based upon independent appraisal of the collateral or listing prices supported by broker recommendation. We consider these collateral values to be estimated using Level 3 inputs. We held real estate acquired through foreclosure of $18.1 million as of December 31, 2012 and $25.2 million as of December 31, 2011. During 2012 and 2011, we added $7.6 million and $18.7 million, respectively, net of reserves, to real estate acquired through foreclosure and recorded write-downs and losses on sales, included in noninterest expense, of $4.0 million and $7.0 million, respectively. We disposed of $10.7 million and $8.8 million of foreclosed properties in 2012 and 2011, respectively.

All Financial Instruments

        The carrying value and estimated fair value of all financial instruments are summarized in the following table as of December 31. The descriptions of the fair value calculations for AFS securities, LHFS, real estate acquired through foreclosure, warrants, IRLCs, and forward contracts to sell mortgage-backed securities are included in the discussions above.

 
  2012  
 
   
  Fair Value  
 
  Carrying Value   Level 1   Level 2   Level 3   Total  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Assets:

                               

Cash and cash equivalents

  $ 185,781   $ 185,781   $   $   $ 185,781  

AFS securities

    57,676         56,721     955     57,676  

LHFS

    404,289         404,289         404,289  

Loans receivable

    610,396         533,501     75,910     609,411  

Real estate acquired through foreclosure

    18,058             18,058     18,058  

Restricted stock investments

    7,099     7,099             7,099  

Liabilities:

                               

Deposits

    1,186,830         1,196,913         1,196,913  

Long- and short-term borrowings

    126,981         129,859         129,859  

Junior subordinated deferrable interest debentures

    52,068         37,018         37,018  

Warrants

    248             248     248  

Off Balance Sheet Items:

                               

IRLCs

    410,192         410,192         410,192  

Forward contracts to sell mortgage-backed securities

    306,682         306,682         306,682  

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(15) Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Continued)


 
  2011  
 
   
  Fair Value  
 
  Carrying Value   Level 1   Level 2   Level 3   Total  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Assets:

                               

Cash and cash equivalents

  $ 148,789   $ 148,789   $   $   $ 148,789  

AFS securities

    22,682         22,000     682     22,682  

LHFS

    182,992         182,992         182,992  

Loans receivable

    701,751         641,354     62,019     703,373  

Real estate acquired through foreclosure

    25,235             25,235     25,235  

Restricted stock investments

    7,085     7,085             7,085  

Liabilities:

                               

Deposits

    1,014,760         1,027,354         1,027,354  

Long- and short-term borrowings

    121,679         122,717         122,717  

Junior subordinated deferrable interest debentures

    52,068         36,902         36,902  

Warrants

    18             18     18  

Off Balance Sheet Items:

                               

IRLCs

    139,899         139,899         139,899  

Forward contracts to sell mortgage-backed securities

    101,772         101,772         101,772  

        Pricing or valuation models are applied using current market information to estimate fair value. In some cases considerable judgment is required to interpret market data to develop the estimates of fair value. Accordingly, the estimates presented herein are not necessarily indicative of the amounts the Company could realize in a current market exchange. The use of different market assumptions and/or estimation methods may have a material effect on the estimated fair value amounts.

        The carrying amount for cash and cash equivalents approximates fair value due to the short maturity of these instruments.

        Loans were segmented into portfolios with similar financial characteristics. Loans were also segmented by type such as residential, multifamily, residential and nonresidential construction and land, home equity and second mortgage loans, commercial, and consumer. Each loan category was further segmented by fixed and adjustable rate interest terms and performing and nonperforming categories. The fair value of each loan category was calculated by discounting anticipated cash flows based on weighted-average contractual maturity, weighted-average coupon, and discount rate.

        The fair value for nonperforming loans was determined utilizing FASB guidance on loan impairment.

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FIRST MARINER BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(15) Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Continued)

        The carrying value of restricted stock investments is a reasonable estimate of fair value as these investments do not have a readily available market.

        The fair value of deposits with no stated maturity, such as noninterest-bearing deposits, interest-bearing NOW accounts, money market, and savings accounts, is deemed to be equal to the carrying amounts. The fair value of certificates of deposit is based on the discounted value of contractual cash flows. The discount rate for certificates of deposit was estimated using the rate currently offered for deposits of similar remaining maturities.

        Long- and short-term borrowings and junior subordinated notes were segmented into categories with similar financial characteristics. Carrying values were discounted using a cash flow approach based on market rates.

        The disclosure of fair value amounts does not include the fair values of any intangibles, including core deposit intangibles. Core deposit intangibles represent the value attributable to total deposits based on an expected duration of customer relationships.

Limitations

        Fair value estimates are made at a specific point in time, based on relevant market information and information about financial instruments. These estimates do not reflect any premium or discount that could result from a one-time sale of our total holdings of a particular financial instrument. Because no market exists for a significant portion of our financial instruments, fair value estimates are based on judgments regarding future expected loss experience, current economic conditions, risk characteristics of various financial instruments, and other factors. These estimates are subjective in nature and involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgment and therefore cannot be determined with precision. Changes in assumptions could significantly affect estimates.

(16) Credit Commitments

        Commitments to extend credit are agreements to lend to customers, provided that terms and conditions established in the related contracts are met. At December 31, 2012 and 2011, we had commitments to originate first mortgage loans on real estate of approximately $404.6 million and $138.1 million, respectively, most of which were committed for sale in the secondary market.

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FIRST MARINER BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(16) Credit Commitments (Continued)

        At December 31, 2012 and 2011, we also had commitments to loan funds under unused home equity lines of credit aggregating approximately $56.7 million and $59.8 million, respectively, and unused commercial lines of credit, retail checking lines of credit, as well as unfunded construction, commercial, and consumer commitments aggregating approximately $26.2 million and $44.1 million, respectively. Such commitments generally carry a fixed rate of interest, while home equity lines of credit are generally variable.

        Commitments for first mortgage loans generally expire within 60 days and are normally funded with loan principal repayments, excess liquidity, and deposits. Since certain commitments may expire without being drawn upon, the total commitment amounts do not necessarily represent our future cash requirements.

        Substantially all outstanding commitments at December 31, 2012 and 2011 are for loans to be secured by real estate with appraised values in excess of the commitment amounts. Our exposure to credit loss under these contracts in the event of nonperformance by the other parties is represented by the commitment amounts, assuming the collateral has no value.

        Letters of credit are commitments issued to guarantee the performance of a customer to a third party. At December 31, 2012 and 2011, letters of credit totaled $1.6 million and $3.2 million, respectively.

(17) Derivatives and Hedging

        We maintain and account for derivatives, in the form of IRLCs and forward sales commitments, in accordance with FASB guidance on accounting for derivative instruments and hedging activities. We recognize gains and losses on IRLCs and forward sales commitments on the loan pipeline through mortgage-banking revenue in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.

        At December 31, 2012, we had pledged securities with an aggregate carrying value (fair value) of $10.1 million as collateral for hedging activities.

        See Note 15 for carrying value and fair value information on our derivatives and hedges.

(18) Related Party Transactions

        During the ordinary course of business, we make loans to our directors and their affiliates and several of our policy making officers on substantially the same terms, including interest rates and collateral, as those prevailing for comparable transactions with other customers. During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010, transactions in related party loans were as follows:

 
  2012   2011   2010  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Beginning balance

  $ 2,006   $ 3,402   $ 2,528  

Additions

        15     1,309  

Repayments

    (1,020 )   (1,167 )   (485 )

Change in officers/directors

        (244 )   50  
               

  $ 986   $ 2,006   $ 3,402  
               

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FIRST MARINER BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(18) Related Party Transactions (Continued)

        Unused loan commitments to directors and policy making officers totaled $1.6 million as of December 31, 2012 and $1.2 million as of December 31, 2011.

        The Bank sponsors the activities of the Baltimore Blast, a professional soccer team owned by Edwin F. Hale, Sr., former Chief Executive Officer ("CEO") of the Company. The Bank paid approximately $50,000 in 2012 and $175,000 in each of 2011 and 2010 for a sponsorship package which includes printed material and Bank banners displayed at Baltimore Blast games, prize giveaways, free tickets, and employee recognition nights.

        We have obtained the naming rights to the major indoor sports/entertainment facility in Baltimore from Mr. Hale who obtained them from the City of Baltimore. We pay Mr. Hale $75,000 per year for the naming rights, which is the same as Mr. Hale pays the City of Baltimore. We have a letter of credit with the City of Baltimore in the amount of $375,000 securing performance under the contract.

        Additionally, First Mariner Bank periodically advertises on a billboard owned by Mr. Hale. The Bank paid $30,000, $45,000, and $98,000 in 2012, 2011, and 2010, respectively, for advertising on the billboard.

        All related party transactions are subject to review by management and the audit committee and approved by the full Board of Directors. We believe that the terms for all related party transactions are at least as favorable as those that could be obtained from a third party.

(19) Segment Information

        We are in the business of providing financial services, and we operate in two business segments—commercial and consumer banking and mortgage-banking. Commercial and consumer banking is conducted through the Bank and involves delivering a broad range of financial services, including lending and deposit taking, to individuals and commercial enterprises. This segment also includes our treasury and administrative functions. Mortgage-banking is conducted through First Mariner Mortgage, a division of the Bank, and involves originating first- and second-lien residential mortgages for sale in the secondary market and to the Bank.

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FIRST MARINER BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(19) Segment Information (Continued)

        The following table presents certain information regarding our business segments as of and for the years ended December 31:

 
  2012  
 
  Commercial and
Consumer Banking
  Mortgage-
Banking
  Total  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Interest income

  $ 37,407   $ 10,327   $ 47,734  

Interest expense

    8,570     7,218     15,788  
               

Net interest income

    28,837     3,109     31,946  

Provision for loan losses

    2,572         2,572  
               

Net interest income after provision for loan losses

    26,265     3,109     29,374  

Noninterest income

    5,804     49,682     55,486  

Noninterest expense

    55,035     13,545     68,580  

Net intersegment income

    1,450     (1,450 )    
               

Net (loss) income before income taxes

  $ (21,516 ) $ 37,796   $ 16,280  
               

Total assets

  $ 973,240   $ 404,289   $ 1,377,529  
               

 

 
  2011  
 
  Commercial and
Consumer Banking
  Mortgage-
Banking
  Total  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Interest income

  $ 43,704   $ 3,803   $ 47,507  

Interest expense

    17,784     1,541     19,325  
               

Net interest income

    25,920     2,262     28,182  

Provision for loan losses

    14,330         14,330  
               

Net interest income after provision for loan losses

    11,590     2,262     13,852  

Noninterest income

    9,654     13,595     23,249  

Noninterest expense

    59,729     8,222     67,951  

Net intersegment income

    1,385     (1,385 )    
               

Net (loss) income before income taxes

  $ (37,100 ) $ 6,250   $ (30,850 )
               

Total assets

  $ 996,025   $ 182,992   $ 1,179,017  
               

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FIRST MARINER BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(19) Segment Information (Continued)


 
  2010  
 
  Commercial and
Consumer Banking
  Mortgage-
Banking
  Total  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Interest income

  $ 50,465   $ 4,756   $ 55,221  

Interest expense

    22,832     2,551     25,383  
               

Net interest income

    27,633     2,205     29,838  

Provision for loan losses

    17,790         17,790  
               

Net interest income after provision for loan losses

    9,843     2,205     12,048  

Noninterest income

    11,242     16,950     28,192  

Noninterest expense

    58,895     8,603     67,498  

Net intersegment income

    2,367     (2,367 )    
               

Net (loss) income before income taxes

  $ (35,443 ) $ 8,185   $ (27,258 )
               

Total assets

  $ 1,169,294   $ 140,343   $ 1,309,637  
               

(20) Quarterly Results of Operations

        The following is a summary of unaudited quarterly results of operations for the years ended December 31:

 
  2012  
 
  Fourth
Quarter
  Third
Quarter
  Second
Quarter
  First
Quarter
  Total  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Interest income

  $ 13,026   $ 11,919   $ 11,170   $ 11,619   $ 47,734  

Interest expense

    4,052     3,860     3,823     4,053     15,788  
                       

Net interest income

    8,974     8,059     7,347     7,566     31,946  

Provision for (reversal of) loan losses

    2,000         (428 )   1,000     2,572  

Other noninterest income

    15,993     16,280     12,834     10,839     55,946  

Net OTTI charges

                (460 )   (460 )

Noninterest expenses

    21,900     16,413     14,937     15,330     68,580  
                       

Income before income taxes

    1,067     7,926     5,672     1,615     16,280  

Income tax expense (benefit)

    368             (205 )   163  
                       

Net income

  $ 699   $ 7,926   $ 5,672   $ 1,820   $ 16,117  
                       

Net income per common share (basic and diluted)

  $ 0.03   $ 0.42   $ 0.30   $ 0.10   $ 0.85  
                       

Market prices:  high

  $ 1.11   $ 0.64   $ 0.70   $ 0.61        

                         low

    0.46     0.43     0.38     0.14        

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FIRST MARINER BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(20) Quarterly Results of Operations (Continued)


 
  2011  
 
  Fourth
Quarter
  Third
Quarter
  Second
Quarter
  First
Quarter
  Total  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Interest income

  $ 11,990   $ 11,677   $ 11,652   $ 12,188   $ 47,507  

Interest expense

    4,401     4,538     5,002     5,384     19,325  
                       

Net interest income

    7,589     7,139     6,650     6,804     28,182  

Provision for loan losses

    2,750     5,000     5,780     800     14,330  

Other noninterest income

    7,764     7,763     4,740     3,062     23,329  

Net OTTI charges

    (20 )   (681 )   (137 )       (838 )

Gain on sale of AFS securities, net

    (23 )   638     143         758  

Noninterest expenses

    17,141     17,819     16,616     16,375     67,951  
                       

Loss before income taxes

    (4,581 )   (7,960 )   (11,000 )   (7,309 )   (30,850 )

Income tax benefit

    (606 )               (606 )
                       

Net loss

  $ (3,975 ) $ (7,960 ) $ (11,000 ) $ (7,309 ) $ (30,244 )
                       

Net loss per common share (basic and diluted)

  $ (0.21 ) $ (0.42 ) $ (0.59 ) $ (0.40 ) $ (1.62 )
                       

Market prices:  high

  $ 0.30   $ 0.74   $ 0.81   $ 1.05        

                         low

    0.05     0.16     0.23     0.39        

(21) Financial Information of Parent Company

        The following is financial information of First Mariner Bancorp (parent company only):

Statements of Financial Condition

 
  December 31,  
 
  2012   2011  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Assets:

             

Cash and interest-bearing deposits

  $ 43   $ 50  

AFS securities

    221     151  

Investment in subsidiaries

    51,568     35,624  

Other assets

    678     506  
           

Total assets

  $ 52,510   $ 36,331  
           

Liabilities and stockholders' deficit:

             

Junior subordinated deferrable interest debentures

  $ 52,068   $ 52,068  

Other liabilities

    8,814     9,675  

Stockholders' deficit

    (8,372 )   (25,412 )
           

Total liabilities and stockholders' deficit

  $ 52,510   $ 36,331  
           

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FIRST MARINER BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(21) Financial Information of Parent Company (Continued)

Statements of Operations

 
  For the Years Ended December 31,  
 
  2012   2011   2010  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Income:

                   

Interest on AFS securities and interest-bearing deposits

  $ 3   $ 7   $ 10  

Loss on AFS securities, including OTTI

        (23 )    

Forgiveness of debt

    2,605          

Gain on debt exchange

            958  

Other income

    388     1,678     1,080  
               

Total income

    2,996     1,662     2,048  
               

Expenses:

                   

Interest expense

    1,722     1,639     1,915  

Professional expenses

    97     1,881     1,055  

Other expenses

    101     619     722  
               

Total expenses

    1,920     4,139     3,692  
               

Income (loss) before income tax benefit

    1,076     (2,477 )   (1,644 )

Income tax benefit

    (203 )       (5,182 )
               

Income (loss) before equity in undistributed net income (loss) of subsidiaries

    1,279     (2,477 )   3,538  

Equity in undistributed net income (loss) of subsidiaries—continuing operations

    14,838     (27,767 )   (49,927 )

Loss from discontinued operations

            (200 )
               

Net income (loss)

  $ 16,117   $ (30,244 ) $ (46,589 )
               

Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss)

 
  For the Years Ended December 31,  
 
  2012   2011   2010  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Net income (loss)

  $ 16,117   $ (30,244 ) $ (46,589 )
               

Other comprehensive income items:

                   

Unrealized holding gains (losses) on securities arising during the period (net of tax expense (benefit) of $796, $390, and $(86), respectively)

    1,176     577     (127 )

Reclassification adjustment for net losses on securities (net of tax benefit of $0, $9, and $0, respectively) included in net income (loss)

        14      
               

Total other comprehensive income (loss)

    1,176     591     (127 )
               

Total comprehensive income (loss)

  $ 17,293   $ (29,653 ) $ (46,716 )
               

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FIRST MARINER BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

(21) Financial Information of Parent Company (Continued)

Statements of Cash Flows

 
  For the Years Ended December 31,  
 
  2012   2011   2010  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Cash flows from operating activities:

                   

Income (loss) before equity in undistributed net income (loss) of subsidiaries

  $ 1,279   $ (2,477 ) $ 3,538  

Loss from discontinued operations

            200  

Gain on debt exchange

            (958 )

Loss on AFS securities, including OTTI

        23      

(Increase) decrease in other assets

    (172 )   74     260  

Forgiveness of debt

    (2,605 )        

Increase (decrease) in other liabilities

    1,514     673     (753 )
               

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities

    16     (1,707 )   2,287  
               

Cash flows from investing activities:

                   

Investment in subsidiaries

            (11,779 )

Proceeds from sale of securities

        4      
               

Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities

        4     (11,779 )
               

Cash flows from financing activities:

                   

Decrease in borrowed funds

            (656 )

(Costs of) proceeds from stock issuance, net

    (23 )   (20 )   10,334  
               

Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities

    (23 )   (20 )   9,678  
               

Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents

    (7 )   (1,723 )   186  

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

    50     1,773     1,587  
               

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

  $ 43   $ 50   $ 1,773  
               

(22) Recent Accounting Pronouncements

Pronouncement Adopted

        In June 2011, the FASB issued guidance on the reporting and presentation of comprehensive income. This guidance eliminates the option to present the components of other comprehensive income as part of the statement of changes in stockholders' equity and requires an entity to present items of net income, other comprehensive income, and total comprehensive income either in a single continuous statement of comprehensive income or in two separate but consecutive statements. The guidance also requires companies to display reclassification adjustments for each component of other comprehensive income in both net income and other comprehensive income. The Company adopted this pronouncement during the first quarter of 2012.

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ITEM 9    CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL
                  DISCLOSURE

        None.

ITEM 9A    CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

        Senior management maintains disclosure controls and procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our Exchange Act reports is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods provided in the SEC rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to our management, including the interim CEO and Chief Financial Officer ("CFO"), as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. In designing and evaluating the disclosure controls and procedures, senior management has recognized that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving the desired control objectives, and therefore has been required to apply its judgment in evaluating the cost-benefit relationship of possible controls and procedures.

        In accordance with Rule 13a-15(b) of the Exchange Act, as of the end of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2012, we carried out an evaluation under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our interim CEO and CFO, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures as defined in rule 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act. Based on that evaluation, our interim CEO and CFO have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are, in fact, effective at the reasonable assurance level.

        There were no changes in our internal controls over financial reporting that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company's internal control over financial reporting.

        As required by Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, management has performed an evaluation and testing of the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2012. Management's report on the Company's internal control over financial reporting is set forth as follows:


Management's Report On Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

        Management of First Mariner Bancorp (the "Company") is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. The internal control process has been designed under management's supervision to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of the Company's consolidated financial statements for external reporting purposes in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

        Management of the Company has conducted an assessment of the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2012, utilizing the framework established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on this assessment, management has determined that, as of December 31, 2012, the Company's internal control over financial reporting is effective.

        The Company's internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the Company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP, and that receipts and expenditures of the Company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the Company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance

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regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the Company's assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

        Any internal control system, no matter how well designed, will have inherent limitations. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

        This annual report does not include an attestation report of the Company's registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over financial reporting. Management's report was not subject to attestation by the Company's registered public accounting firm pursuant to rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission that permit the Company to provide only management's report in this annual report.

/s/ MARK A. KEIDEL

Mark A. Keidel
Principal Executive Officer
  /s/ PAUL B. SUSIE

Paul B. Susie
Chief Financial Officer and
Principal Accounting Officer

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ITEM 9B    OTHER INFORMATION

        None.


PART III

ITEM 10    DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

        We have a Code of Conduct and Ethics that applies to our employees, officers, and directors, including our principal executive officer, principal financial officer, and principal accounting officer. A copy of this Code of Conduct and Ethics is available on our website at www.1stmarinerbancorp.com (investor relations section), or a written copy can be obtained by request. We intend to disclose any changes in or waivers from our code by posting such information on our website. We also have adopted an Executive Code of Conduct and Ethics Policy that addresses (i) trading prohibitions during a "blackout period;" (ii) prohibitions against insider trading; (iii) corporate opportunities; and (iv) loans to insiders.

        All other information required by this item is set forth under the headings "Proposal One: Election of Directors," "Executive Officers Who Are Not Directors," "Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance" and "Audit Committee" in the Company's 2013 Proxy Statement to be filed with the SEC and is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 11    EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

        The information required by this item is set forth under the headings "Executive Compensation" and "Directors' Compensation" in the Company's 2013 Proxy Statement to be filed with the SEC and is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 12    SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND
                    RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

        The information required by this item with respect to our equity compensation plans is incorporated herein by reference to the section entitled "Equity Compensation Plan Information" contained in Item 5 of Part II of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

        All other information required by this item is set forth under the heading "Stock Ownership" in the Company's 2013 Proxy Statement to be filed with the SEC and is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 13    CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE

        The information required by this item is set forth under the headings "Certain Relationships and Related Transactions" and "Director Independence" in the Company's 2013 Proxy Statement to be filed with the SEC and is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 14    PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES

        The information required by this item is set forth under the heading "Proposal Two: Ratification of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm" in the Company's 2013 Proxy Statement to be filed with the SEC and is incorporated herein by reference.

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PART IV

ITEM 15    EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

(a)(1), (a)(2) and (c) Financial Statements

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

    82  

Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition as of December 31, 2012 and 2011

   
83
 

Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

   
84
 

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

   
85
 

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' (Deficit) Equity for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

   
86
 

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

   
87
 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010

   
88
 

(a)(3) and (b) Exhibits Required to be filed by Item 601 of Regulation S-K.

        The exhibits that are filed or furnished with this report are listed in the Exhibit Index following the Signatures, which Exhibit Index is incorporated herein by reference.

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SIGNATURES

        Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

    FIRST MARINER BANCORP

Date: April 1, 2013

 

By:

 

/s/ MARK A. KEIDEL

Mark A. Keidel
Principal Executive Officer

        Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant in their capacities as indicated on the 1st day of April, 2013.


 

 

 
/s/ MARK A. KEIDEL

Mark A. Keidel,
  /s/ PAUL B. SUSIE

Paul B. Susie,
Principal Executive Officer And Director   Chief Financial Officer and
Principal Accounting Officer

/s/ MICHAEL R. WATSON

Michael R. Watson,
Interim Chairman and Director

 

/s/ GREGORY ALLEN DEVOU

Gregory Allen Devou,
Director

/s/ ANIRBAN BASU

Anirban Basu,
Director

 

/s/ GEORGE H. MANTAKOS

George H. Mantakos,
Director

/s/ BARRY B. BONDROFF

Barry B. Bondroff,
Director

 

/s/ JOHN J. OLIVER

John J. Oliver,
Director

/s/ JOHN BROWN III

John Brown III,
Director

 

/s/ PATRICIA SCHMOKE

Patricia Schmoke,
Director

/s/ ROBERT CARET

Robert Caret,
Director

 

/s/ HECTOR TORRES

Hector Torres,
Director

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EXHIBIT INDEX

  3.1   Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of First Mariner Bancorp (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form SB-2, as amended, file no. 333-16011 (the "1996 Registration Statement"))

 

3.2

 

Articles of Amendment to the Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of First Mariner Bancorp (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-1, as amended, file number 333-163560).

 

3.3

 

Amended and Restated Bylaws of First Mariner Bancorp (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of First Mariner's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2011)

 

4.1

 

Specimen Common Stock Certificate (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 of First Mariner's Form-SB filed on November 13, 1996, as amended)

 

4.2

 

Form of Rights Certificate (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 of First Mariner's Pre-Effective Amendment Number 2 to Form S-1, file no. 333-163560, filed on February 10, 2010)

 

4.3

 

Registrant will furnish, upon request, copies of all instruments defining the rights of holders of long-term debt instruments of the registrant and its consolidated subsidiaries.

 

10.1

 

1996 Stock Option Plan of First Mariner Bancorp (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Registration Statement)

 

10.2

 

Employment Agreement dated May 1, 1995 between First Mariner Bancorp and First Mariner Bank and George H. Mantakos (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the 1996 Registration Statement)

 

10.3

 

1998 Stock Option Plan of First Mariner Bancorp (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 of Pre-Effective Amendment Number 1 to Form S-1, file no. 333- 53789-01)

 

10.4

 

Employee Stock Purchase Plan of First Mariner Bancorp (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 of Pre-Effective Amendment Number 1 to Form S-1, file no. 333-53789-01)

 

10.5

 

First Mariner Bancorp 2002 Stock Option Plan (Incorporated by reference to Attachment A to First Mariner's Definitive Proxy Statement filed on April 5, 2002)

 

10.6

 

Change of Control Agreement dated April 2, 2003 between First Mariner Bancorp and George H. Mantakos (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.14 to the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2003.)

 

10.7

 

Change of Control Agreement dated April 2, 2003 between First Mariner Bancorp and Mark A. Keidel (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.15 to the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2003.)

 

10.8

 

Change of Control Agreement dated April 2, 2003 between First Mariner Bancorp and Dennis E. Finnegan (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.16 to the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2003.)

 

10.9

 

First Mariner Bancorp 2004 Long-Term Incentive Plan, as amended (Incorporated by reference to Appendix A to First Mariner's Definitive Proxy Statement filed on January 13, 2010)

 

10.10

 

First Mariner Bancorp 2003 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (Incorporated by reference to Appendix C to First Mariner's Definitive Proxy Statement filed on April 1, 2004)

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  10.11   Purchase and Sale Agreement dated October 20, 2004 among First Mariner Bancorp, Canton Crossing LLC and Hale Canton, LLC (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant's Report on Form 8-K filed on October 22, 2004)

 

10.12

 

Form of Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement under the 2004 Long Term Incentive Plan (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant's Report on Form 8-K filed on January 31, 2005)

 

10.13

 

Form of Incentive Stock Option Award Agreement under the 2004 Long-Term Incentive Plan (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant's Report on Form 8-K filed on January 31, 2005)

 

10.14

 

Lease Agreement dated May 12, 2005 between First Mariner Bancorp and Hale Properties, LLC (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Form 8-K filed on May 17, 2005.)

 

10.15

 

First Amendment to Lease Agreement dated November 15, 2005 between First Mariner Bancorp and Canton Crossing Tower, LLC (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Form 8-K filed on November 18, 2005)

 

10.16

 

Description of Board Fees (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Form 8-K filed on July 21, 2008)

 

10.17

 

Description of 2006 Executive Bonus Plan (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Form 8-K filed on February 1, 2006)

 

10.18

 

Lease Agreement dated January 8, 2007 between First Mariner Bank and Canton Crossing Tower, LLC (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Form 8-K filed on March 14, 2007)

 

10.19

 

Description of 2007 Short-Term Incentive Plan (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Form 8-K filed on March 14, 2007)

 

10.20

 

Description of 2008 Short-Term Incentive Plan (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Form 8-K filed on March 28, 2008)

 

10.21

 

Stipulation and Consent to the Issuance of an Order to Cease and Desist, Order for Restitution, and Order to Pay (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Form 8-K filed on May 7, 2009)

 

10.22

 

Order to Cease and Desist, Order for Restitution, and Order to Pay (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Form 8-K filed on May 7, 2009)

 

10.23

 

Order to Cease and Desist entered September 18, 2009 (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Form 8-K filed on September 21, 2009)

 

10.24

 

Written Agreement by and between First Mariner Bancorp and the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond, effective November 24, 2009 (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Form 8-K filed on November 27, 2009)

 

10.25

 

Retention Bonus Agreement between First Mariner Bank and Mark Keidel (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company's Form 10-Q filed on November 16, 2012)

 

10.26

 

Retention Bonus Agreement between First Mariner Bank and Paul Susie (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company's Form 10-Q filed on November 16, 2012)

 

21.1

 

Subsidiaries of Registrant (Filed herewith)

 

23.1

 

Consent of Stegman & Company (Filed herewith)

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  31.1   Certification of Principal Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and Rule 15d-14(a), promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (Filed herewith)

 

31.2

 

Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and Rule 15d-14(a), promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (Filed herewith)

 

32.1

 

Certification of Principal Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 as adopted pursuant to section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (Furnished herewith)

 

32.2

 

Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 as adopted pursuant to section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (Furnished herewith)

 

101.0

*

The following materials from the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012 formatted in XBRL (Extensible Business Reporting Language): (i) Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition; (ii) Consolidated Statements of Operations; (iii) Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss); (iv) Consolidated Statements of Changes on Stockholders' (Deficit) Equity; (v) Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows; and (vi) related notes.

*
Furnished, not filed.

148