F.N.B. Corporation S-4/A
As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on
August 12, 2005
Registration No. 333-126005
UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
Pre-Effective Amendment No. 1
to
FORM S-4
REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933
F.N.B. CORPORATION
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
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Florida |
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6711 |
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25-1255406 |
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization) |
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(Primary Standard Industrial
Classification Code Number) |
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(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.) |
One F.N.B. Boulevard
Hermitage, Pennsylvania 16148
(724) 981-6000
(Address, including zip code, and telephone number, including
area code, of Registrants principal executive offices)
Stephen J. Gurgovits
President and Chief Executive Officer
F.N.B. Corporation
One F.N.B. Boulevard
Hermitage, Pennsylvania 16148
(724) 981-6000
(Name, address, including zip code, and telephone number,
including area code, of agent for service)
Copies to:
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Frederick W. Dreher, Esq.
Carolyn E. Mullins, Esq.
Duane Morris LLP
4200 One Liberty Place
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 979-1234 |
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Richard D. Rose, Esq.
Jennifer R. Minter, Esq.
Buchanan Ingersoll PC
One Oxford Centre
301 Grant Street, 20th Floor
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
(412) 562-8425 |
Approximate date of commencement of proposed sale of the
securities to the public: upon the effective date of the
merger of North East Bancshares, Inc. with and into Registrant.
If the securities being registered on this Form are being
offered in connection with the formation of a holding company
and there is compliance with General Instruction G, check
the following
box. o
If this Form is filed to register additional securities for an
offering pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act,
check the following box and list the Securities Act registration
statement number of the earlier effective registration statement
for the same
offering. o
If this Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to
Rule 462(d) under the Securities Act, check the following
box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of
the earlier effective registration statement for the same
offering. o
The Registrant hereby amends this Registration Statement on
such date or dates as may be necessary to delay its effective
date until the Registrant shall file a further amendment which
specifically states that this Registration Statement shall
thereafter become effective in accordance with Section 8(a)
of the Securities Act of 1933 or until the Registration
Statement shall become effective on such date as the Commission,
acting pursuant to said Section 8(a), may determine.
The information in this proxy
statement/prospectus is not complete and may be changed. We may
not issue the shares of FNB common stock to be issued in
connection with the merger described in this proxy
statement/prospectus until the registration statement filed with
the SEC is effective. This prospectus is not an offer to sell
these securities and it is not soliciting an offer to buy these
securities in any state where the offer or sale is not
permitted. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal
offense.
Subject to completion, dated
August 12, 2005
MERGER PROPOSAL YOUR VOTE IS VERY IMPORTANT
To the Shareholders of North East Bancshares, Inc.;
We invite you to attend a special meeting of the shareholders of
North East Bancshares, Inc. (North East) that will
be held on September 20, 2005 at 11:00 a.m.,
prevailing time, at the main office of The National Bank of
North East, 5999 Station Road, North East, Pennsylvania
16428. At the special meeting, you will be asked to consider and
vote upon, among other things, a proposal to approve and adopt
an agreement and plan of merger, dated as of April 22,
2005, providing for our merger with and into F.N.B. Corporation
(FNB).
If the merger agreement is approved and adopted and the merger
is subsequently completed, each outstanding share of our common
stock will be converted into the right to receive that number of
FNB common stock as is determined by dividing $107 by the
average closing price of FNBs common stock on the New York
Stock Exchange for the 20 consecutive trading days ending on the
fifth trading day prior to the consummation of the merger.
However, if the average closing price of FNBs common stock
as so determined is less than $18.00 per share, FNB will
have the option, in it sole discretion, of delivering you a
combination of cash, but not in excess of $53.00 per North
East share in cash, and shares of FNBs common stock so
that the total merger consideration you receive for each North
East share equals $107.
The merger cannot be completed unless the holders of a majority
of our outstanding shares of common stock vote to approve and
adopt the merger agreement at our special meeting and the
required regulatory approvals are received.
Following the merger, our subsidiary bank, The National Bank of
North East, will be merged in a separate merger with and into
FNBs subsidiary bank, First National Bank of Pennsylvania.
In addition, you will be asked to consider and vote upon a
proposal to grant discretionary authority to adjourn our special
meeting to solicit additional proxies in favor of approving and
adopting the merger agreement.
OUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT YOU VOTE FOR
THE PROPOSAL TO APPROVE AND ADOPT THE MERGER AGREEMENT AND
FOR THE ADJOURNMENT PROPOSAL.
The accompanying notice of special meeting and proxy
statement/prospectus give you detailed information about our
special meeting, the merger, the merger agreement, the shares of
FNB common stock issuable in the merger and other matters. We
recommend that you read these materials carefully, including the
considerations discussed under Risk Factors Relating to
the Merger beginning on Page 16 and the appendices
thereto, which include the merger agreement.
Your vote is important. Whether or not you plan to attend our
special meeting, please complete, sign, date and promptly return
the enclosed proxy to ensure that your shares will be
represented at our special meeting. If you attend our special
meeting and wish to vote in person, you may withdraw your proxy
and do so.
We appreciate your continuing loyalty and support, and we look
forward to seeing you at our special meeting.
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Sincerely, |
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David B. Hartman |
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President and Chief Executive Officer |
Please see Risk Factors Relating to the Merger
beginning on Page 16 for a discussion of risks associated
with the merger and in owning FNB common stock.
Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state
securities commission has approved or disapproved the FNB common
stock to be issued under this proxy statement/prospectus or
determined if this proxy statement/prospectus is accurate or
adequate. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal
offense.
The date of this proxy statement/prospectus is August 19,
2005, and it is first being mailed or otherwise delivered to our
shareholders on or about August 19, 2005.
North East Bancshares, Inc.
5999 Station Road
North East, Pennsylvania 16428
NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
TO BE HELD SEPTEMBER 20, 2005
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a special meeting of shareholders of
North East Bancshares, Inc. will be held at 11:00 a.m.
prevailing time, on September 20, 2005, at the main office
of The National Bank of North East, 5999 Station Road,
North East, Pennsylvania 16428, for the following purposes,
all of which are more completely set forth in the accompanying
proxy statement/prospectus:
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(1) To consider and vote upon a proposal to approve and
adopt the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of
April 22, 2005, between F.N.B. Corporation
(FNB) and us, pursuant to which we will merge with
and into FNB and all outstanding shares of our common stock,
other than treasury shares and shares as to which appraisal
rights are perfected, will be converted into shares of FNB
common stock, or at FNBs option if the average closing
price of FNB common stock on the New York Stock Exchange for the
20 consecutive trading days ending on the fifth trading day
prior to the consummation of the merger is less than
$18.00 per share, a combination of FNB shares and cash,
having an aggregate value of $107 per North East share, as
described in the accompanying proxy statement/prospectus; |
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(2) To consider and vote upon a proposal to grant
discretionary authority to adjourn our special meeting, if
necessary, to permit further solicitation of proxies if there
are not sufficient votes at the time of our special meeting to
approve and adopt the merger agreement; and |
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(3) To transact such other business as may be properly
presented for action at our special meeting and any adjournment,
postponement or continuation of our special meeting. |
Our board of directors has fixed the close of business on
August 9, 2005 as the record date for the determination of
our shareholders who shall be entitled to notice of, and to vote
at, our special meeting and any adjournment, postponement or
continuation of our special meeting. A list of our shareholders
entitled to vote at our special meeting will be available for
examination by any shareholder for any purpose related to our
special meeting during normal business hours for ten days prior
to our special meeting at our offices at 5999 Station Road,
North East, Pennsylvania 16428.
This notice also constitutes notice of your right to dissent
from the merger and upon compliance with the procedural
requirements of the Pennsylvania Business Corporation Law, or
BCL, to receive the appraised fair value of your shares. A copy
of the relevant sections of the BCL regarding appraisal rights
is included as Appendix C to the accompanying proxy
statement/prospectus.
Our board of directors has unanimously approved the merger
agreement and recommends that you vote FOR approval
and adoption of the merger agreement.
You are requested to complete, sign and return the enclosed
proxy card in the envelope provided, whether or not you expect
to attend our special meeting in person. If you attend our
special meeting and wish to vote in person, you may withdraw
your proxy and vote in person.
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By Order of our Board of Directors, |
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David B. Hartman |
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President and Chief Executive Officer |
North East, Pennsylvania
August 19, 2005
PLEASE COMPLETE, SIGN, DATE AND RETURN THE ENCLOSED PROXY CARD
IN THE POSTAGE-PAID ENVELOPE WHETHER OR NOT YOU PLAN TO ATTEND
OUR SPECIAL MEETING.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
This proxy statement/prospectus incorporates important business
and financial information about FNB from other documents that
are not included in or delivered with this proxy
statement/prospectus. You can obtain documents incorporated by
reference in this proxy statement/prospectus, other than certain
exhibits to those documents, by requesting them in writing or by
telephone from FNB at the following addresses:
F.N.B. Corporation
Attn: Corporate Secretary
One F.N.B. Boulevard
Hermitage, Pennsylvania 16148
(724) 981-6000
You will not be charged for any documents you request. Our
shareholders requesting documents should do so by
September 7, 2005 in order to receive them before our
special meeting.
See Where You Can Find More Information on
Page 79.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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F-1 |
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APPENDICES:
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A-1 |
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B-1 |
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C-1 |
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ii
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT THE MERGER AND OUR SPECIAL
MEETING
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What matters will be considered at our special meeting? |
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At our special meeting, our shareholders will be asked to vote
on a proposal to approve and adopt the merger agreement whereby
we will merge with, and into, FNB. We sometimes refer to this
proposal as the merger proposal in this proxy
statement/ prospectus. Our shareholders will also be asked to
vote upon a proposal to grant discretionary authority to adjourn
our special meeting, if necessary, to solicit additional proxies
if we have not received sufficient votes to approve the merger
at the time of our special meeting. We sometimes refer to this
proposal as the adjournment proposal in this proxy
statement/ prospectus. |
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What will I receive upon consummation of the merger? |
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Upon consummation of the merger, you will have the right to
receive shares of FNB common stock in exchange for the shares of
our common stock that you own, in accordance with the exchange
ratio, subject to customary antidilution adjustments. At
FNBs option if the average closing price of FNB common
stock on the New York Stock Exchange for the 20 consecutive
trading days ending on the fifth trading day prior to the
consummation of the merger is less than $18.00 per share,
you would receive a combination of cash and shares of FNB common
stock. |
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What is the recommendation of our board of directors? |
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Our board of directors has unanimously determined that the
merger is fair to you and in the best interests of our
shareholders and us and unanimously recommends that you vote for
the merger proposal. |
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In making this determination, our board of directors considered
the opinion of Boenning & Scattergood, Inc., our
independent financial advisor, whom we refer to as
Boenning in this proxy statement/ prospectus, as to
the fairness from a financial point of view of the exchange
ratio in the merger agreement. Our board of directors also
reviewed and evaluated the terms and conditions of the merger
agreement and the merger with the assistance of our independent
legal counsel. |
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Our board of directors also recommends that you vote for the
adjournment proposal. |
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What was the opinion of our financial advisor? |
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Boenning presented an opinion to our board of directors on
April 21, 2005 to the effect that, as of April 15,
2005 and then again as of August 12, 2005 and based upon
the assumptions made by Boenning, the matters it considered and
the limitations of its review as set forth in its opinion, the
merger consideration in the merger agreement is fair to our
shareholders from a financial point of view. |
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What do I need to do now? |
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After you carefully read this proxy statement/prospectus and
decide how you want to vote on the merger proposal and the
adjournment proposal, you should complete, date and sign your
proxy card and mail it in the enclosed return envelope as soon
as possible so that your shares may be represented at our
special meeting, even if you plan to attend our special meeting
and vote in person. |
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Why is my vote important? |
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Our Articles of Incorporation require the affirmative vote of a
majority of the holders of our outstanding shares of common
stock in order to approve and adopt the merger proposal.
Therefore, if you fail to vote or abstain from voting on the
merger proposal, it will have the same effect as a vote against
the merger proposal. |
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How do I vote in person? |
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If you attend our special meeting and wish to vote in person, we
will give you a ballot when you arrive at our special meeting.
If your shares are held in street name, which means that your
shares are registered in the name of a bank, broker, nominee or
other holder of record instead of your own name, you must bring
an account statement or a letter from your holder of record
showing that you are the beneficial owner of the shares on
August 9, 2005, the record date for determining our
shareholders who are entitled to notice of, and to vote at, our
special meeting, in order to be permitted to cast a ballot at
our special meeting. |
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How do I vote my shares if they are held in street name? |
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If you are not a holder of record but you are a beneficial
holder, meaning that your shares are registered in a name
other than your own, such as a street name, you must either
direct the holder of record of your shares as to how you want
your shares to be voted or obtain a proxy from the holder of
record that you may vote yourself. |
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What if I fail to instruct my broker? |
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Brokers may not vote shares of our common stock that they hold
for the benefit of another person either for or against the
approval of the merger proposal without specific instructions
from the person who beneficially owns those shares. Therefore,
if your shares are held by a broker and you do not give your
broker instructions on how to vote your shares, this will have
the same effect as voting against the approval of the merger
proposal. |
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May I change my vote after I have mailed my signed proxy? |
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Yes. You may revoke your proxy at any time before the vote is
taken at our special meeting. If you have not voted through a
bank, broker, nominee or other holder of record, you may revoke
your proxy by: |
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submitting written notice of revocation to our
corporate secretary prior to the voting of that proxy at our
special meeting; |
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submitting a properly executed proxy with a later
date; or |
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voting in person at our special meeting. |
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However, simply attending our special meeting without voting
will not revoke an earlier proxy. |
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If your shares are held in the name of a bank, broker, nominee
or other holder of record, you should follow the instructions of
the bank, broker, nominee or other holder of record regarding
the revocation of proxies. |
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When do you expect to complete the merger? |
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We anticipate that we will obtain all necessary regulatory
approvals to consummate the merger in the fourth quarter of
2005. However, we cannot assure you when or if the merger will
occur. We must first obtain the approval of our shareholders at
our special meeting, and we and FNB must obtain the requisite
regulatory approvals. |
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Should I send my stock certificates now? |
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No. Holders of our common stock should not submit their North
East stock certificates for exchange until they receive the
transmittal instructions from the exchange agent, Registrar and
Transfer Company. |
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What rights do I have to an appraisal of my shares? |
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If you do not vote in favor of the merger proposal and if you
comply precisely with the applicable procedural requirements,
Pennsylvania law entitles you to a judicial appraisal of the
fair value of your shares. You must carefully and precisely
follow the applicable procedures under Pennsylvania law in order
to exercise your appraisal rights. A complete copy of the
relevant sections of the Pennsylvania Business Corporation Law
of 1988, as amended, or BCL, is included in this proxy
statement/prospectus as Appendix C. The fair value of your
shares as determined in an appraisal rights proceeding may be
more or less than the merger consideration you are entitled to
receive from FNB under the merger agreement. |
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Who can help answer my questions? |
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If you have additional questions about the merger or would like
additional copies of this proxy statement/ prospectus, please
call David B. Hartman, President and Chief Executive
Officer, at (814) 725-7222. |
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SUMMARY
This summary highlights selected information from this proxy
statement/prospectus. While this summary describes the material
aspects you should consider in your evaluation of the merger
agreement and the merger, it does not contain all of the
information that is important to you. We encourage you to read
carefully this entire proxy statement/prospectus and its
appendices as well as the other documents to which we refer in
order to fully understand the merger. See Where You Can
Find More Information on
Page . In this summary, we
have included Page references to direct you to a more detailed
description of the matters described in this summary.
Throughout this proxy statement/prospectus, we,
us, our or North East refer
to North East Bancshares, Inc., North East Bank
refers to The National Bank of North East, North Easts
banking subsidiary, FNB refers to F.N.B.
Corporation, FNB Bank refers to First National Bank
of Pennsylvania, FNBs banking subsidiary, and
you refers to the shareholders of North East. Also,
we refer to the merger between North East and FNB as the
merger, and the agreement and plan of merger dated
as of April 22, 2005 between North East and FNB as the
merger agreement.
The Parties
North East (Page 38)
We are a one-bank holding company headquartered in North East,
Pennsylvania. Our primary source of income has been dividends
paid by North East Bank, our bank subsidiary.
North East Bank has four locations in Erie County, Pennsylvania
and had total assets of approximately $69 million as of
December 31, 2004.
Our principal executive offices are located at 5999 Station
Road, North East, Pennsylvania 16428. Our telephone number
is (814) 725-2265 and our website address is
www.nbne.com.
FNB (Page 25)
FNB is a $5.7 billion financial services holding company
headquartered in Hermitage, Pennsylvania. FNB provides a broad
range of financial services to its customers through FNB Bank
and FNBs insurance agency, consumer finance and trust
company subsidiaries. FNB operates 142 banking offices in
western Pennsylvania and eastern Ohio and maintains seven
insurance agency locations. Regency Finance, FNBs consumer
finance subsidiary, has 23 offices in Pennsylvania,
15 offices in Ohio and 16 offices in Tennessee.
Another FNB subsidiary, First National Trust Company, has
approximately $1.2 billion of assets under management.
The principal executive offices of FNB are located at One F.N.B.
Boulevard, Hermitage, Pennsylvania 16148. Its telephone number
is (724) 981-6000 and its website address is
www.fnbcorporation.com.
Our Special Meeting
Date, Time, Place and Purpose of our Special Meeting
(Page 21)
Our special meeting will be held at the main office of North
East Bank, 5999 Station Road, North East,
Pennsylvania 16428, at 11:00 a.m., prevailing time, on
September 20, 2005.
At our special meeting you will be asked to:
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Consider and vote upon a proposal to approve and adopt the
Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of April 22, 2005
between FNB and us pursuant to which we will merge with and into
FNB as described in this proxy statement/prospectus; |
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Consider and vote upon a proposal to grant discretionary
authority to adjourn our special meeting if necessary to permit
further solicitation of proxies if there are not sufficient
votes at the time of our special meeting to approve and adopt
the merger agreement; and |
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Transact such other business as may be properly presented for
action at our special meeting or any adjournment, postponement
or continuation of our special meeting. |
Record Date; Quorum; Outstanding Common Stock Entitled to
Vote (Page 22)
Our board of directors has established the close of business on
August 9, 2005 as the record date for determining holders
of shares of our common stock who will be entitled to vote at
our special meeting. You will not be entitled to vote at our
special meeting if you are not a shareholder of record as of the
close of business on August 9, 2005.
Each share of our common stock is entitled to one vote. On the
record date, 145,168 shares of our common stock were
entitled to vote at our special meeting.
The presence, in person or by properly executed proxy, of the
holders of at least a majority of our common stock issued and
outstanding on the record date is necessary to constitute a
quorum at our special meeting. Abstentions will be counted
solely for the purpose of determining whether a quorum is
present. There must be a quorum in order for the vote on the
merger proposal and the adjournment proposal to occur.
Required Vote (Page 22)
Under Pennsylvania law and our Articles of Incorporation, the
merger proposal must receive the affirmative vote of the holders
of a majority of our outstanding shares of common stock present
at our special meeting in person or by proxy, and the
adjournment proposal must receive the affirmative vote of the
holders of a majority of the shares present at our special
meeting in person or by proxy.
As of the record date, our directors and executive officers and
their affiliates beneficially owned 25,934 shares of our
common stock, or approximately 18% of our shares entitled to
vote at our special meeting. Neither FNB nor any of its
directors or executive officers own any shares of our common
stock.
Our board of directors believes that the merger is in the best
interests of our shareholders and unanimously recommends that
you vote for the merger proposal and for the adjournment
proposal.
Solicitation (Page 23)
We will pay for the costs of our special meeting and for the
mailing of this proxy statement/ prospectus to our shareholders.
We and FNB will share equally the costs of printing this proxy
statement/ prospectus and the filing fee paid to the Securities
and Exchange Commission, which we sometimes refer to as the
SEC in this proxy statement/ prospectus.
In addition to soliciting proxies by mail, our directors,
officers and employees may also solicit proxies in person or by
telephone, but will not be specially compensated for doing so.
The Merger
Certain Effects of the Merger
(Pages 38 39)
Upon consummation of the merger:
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Each share of our common stock held by you will automatically be
converted into the right to receive that number of shares of FNB
common stock as is determined by dividing $107.00 by the average
closing price of FNBs common stock on the New York Stock
Exchange for the 20 consecutive trading days ending on the fifth
trading day prior to consummation of the merger. If the average
closing price of FNB common stock as so determined is less than
$18.00 per share, FNB will have the option, in its sole
discretion to pay the merger consideration with a combination of
cash, but not in excess of |
4
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|
$53.00 per North East share, and FNB common stock so that
the total merger consideration per North East share equals $107. |
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We will cease to exist as a separate legal entity and all of our
operations will be conducted by FNB; and |
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The holders of our common stock will no longer have any interest
in us, but will own stock in FNB. |
Following consummation of the merger, FNB and its shareholders
will be the only beneficiaries of any future growth or earnings,
but will also bear all of the future risk of any decrease in the
value of our combined businesses.
Recommendation of Our Board of Directors
(Pages 27 29)
Our board of directors has unanimously determined that the terms
of the merger agreement and the merger are fair to and in the
best interests of our shareholders. Our board of directors
unanimously recommends that you vote FOR the merger
proposal and FOR the adjournment proposal.
Opinion of Boenning as Our Financial Advisor
(Pages 29 38)
Boenning, our financial advisor in connection with the merger,
delivered a written fairness opinion to our board of directors
on April 21, 2005 that, as of April 15, 2005, and
based upon and subject to the factors and assumptions set forth
in its opinion, the merger consideration in the merger agreement
is fair, from a financial point of view, to our shareholders.
Boenning updated its fairness opinion as of August 12, 2005
for inclusion in this proxy statement/prospectus.
Appendix B to this proxy statement/prospectus sets forth
the full text of the August 12, 2005 Boenning opinion,
which sets forth the assumptions Boenning made, the procedures
Boenning followed, the matters Boenning considered and the
limitations on the review undertaken by Boenning in connection
with its opinion. Boenning provided its opinion for the
information and assistance of our board of directors in
connection with its consideration of the merger. The Boenning
opinion is not a recommendation as to how you should vote with
respect to the merger or any related matter. We encourage you to
read the opinion in its entirety. Pursuant to an engagement
letter we entered into with Boenning, we agreed to pay Boenning
a fee, which is more fully described in The
Merger Opinion of Our Financial Advisor
beginning on Page 29.
Interests of Our Directors and Executive Officers in the
Merger (Pages 40 41)
In considering our board of directors recommendation that
you vote FOR the merger proposal, you should be
aware that certain of our executive officers and directors have
interests in the merger that are different from, or in addition
to, your interests as a shareholder. These interests relate to
or arise from, among other things:
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the continued indemnification of our current directors and
executive officers under the merger agreement and providing
these individuals with directors and officers
insurance; and |
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the severance payment due to David B. Hartman, our President and
Chief Executive Officer, pursuant to the terms of his executive
employment agreement. |
Conditions to the Merger (Page 53)
Currently, we expect to complete the merger in the fourth
quarter of 2005. However, as more fully described in this proxy
statement/ prospectus and in the merger agreement, the
completion of the merger depends on a number of conditions being
satisfied or, where legally permissible, waived. These
conditions include, among others:
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approval of the merger proposal by the holders of a majority of
our outstanding common stock; |
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the receipt of all regulatory approvals needed to complete the
merger, including the approval of the Office of the Comptroller
of the Currency, which we sometimes refer to as the
OCC in this proxy |
5
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statement/ prospectus, and the approval of the Board of
Governors of the Federal Reserve System, which we sometimes
refer to as the Federal Reserve Board in this proxy
statement/prospectus; |
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the absence of any law or injunction that would effectively
prohibit the merger; and |
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the receipt of legal opinions from FNBs and our legal
counsel as to the tax treatment of the merger. |
We cannot be certain when, or if, the conditions to the merger
will be satisfied or waived, or that the merger will be
completed.
Termination of the Merger Agreement (Page 53)
We may agree to terminate the merger agreement before completing
the merger, even after our shareholders approve the merger
proposal, if the termination is approved by our board of
directors and the board of directors of FNB.
Either FNB or we may terminate the merger agreement, even after
our shareholders approve the merger proposal, if certain
conditions have not been met, such as:
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obtaining the necessary regulatory approvals for the merger; |
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the other partys material breach of a representation,
warranty, covenant or agreement, provided the terminating party
is not then in material breach of any of its representations,
warranties, covenants or agreements; |
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if the merger has not been consummated by January 31, 2006,
unless the reason the merger has not been consummated by that
date is a breach of the merger agreement by the party seeking to
terminate the merger agreement; or |
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if the holders of a majority of our outstanding common stock
fail to approve the merger proposal, provided we are not in
material breach of our obligations to have our board of
directors recommend approval of the merger proposal and to take
all reasonable lawful actions to solicit such shareholder
approval. |
FNB may terminate the merger agreement at any time prior to our
special meeting if we have:
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failed to have our board of directors recommend approval of the
merger proposal to our shareholders or our board of directors
shall have changed its recommendation, except as permitted by
the merger agreement with respect to a proposal to acquire us on
terms and conditions superior to those in the merger agreement; |
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recommended approval of another proposal to acquire us; or |
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failed to call and hold our special meeting. |
We may terminate the merger agreement if:
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at any time prior to the mailing of this proxy, we receive an
acquisition proposal that our Board of Directors concludes in
good faith to be a superior proposal, after giving FNB five days
to negotiate with us, and we will owe FNB a break-up fee. |
Except as provided below with respect to termination fees and
expenses and the parties respective confidentiality
obligations, none of the parties will have any liability or
obligation other than liabilities or damages incurred by any of
them as a result of their willful breach of any of their
respective representations, warranties, covenants or agreements
contained in the merger agreement.
6
Expenses; Termination Fee (Page 54)
The merger agreement provides that we will pay FNB a break-up
fee of $750,000 if:
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we terminate the merger agreement in order to enter into an
agreement relating to an acquisition transaction that has terms
superior to those of the merger agreement from the perspective
of our board of directors and shareholders; |
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FNB terminates the merger agreement because we have failed to
hold our special meeting or our board of directors has not
recommended approval of the merger proposal, or has changed its
recommendation, or has recommended approval of another proposal
to acquire us; |
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A tender or exchange offer for 25% or more of our common stock
is made and our board of directors fails to send a statement to
our shareholders recommending rejection of that offer within
10 days after the offer has been made; or |
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FNB or we terminate the merger agreement because our
shareholders did not approve the merger proposal while an
Acquisition Proposal is pending and we enter into an acquisition
transaction within 18 months thereafter. |
Appraisal Rights (Pages 43 46)
If you do not vote in favor of approval of the merger proposal,
and you fulfill the other procedural requirements, Pennsylvania
law entitles you to a judicial appraisal of the fair value of
your shares. You must carefully and precisely follow the
applicable procedures in order to be entitled to appraisal
rights. A copy of the provisions of the BCL applicable to
appraisal rights is included in Appendix C to this proxy
statement/prospectus.
Material Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Merger
(Pages 55 58)
We expect the merger to qualify as a reorganization for United
States federal income tax purposes. In general, this means that
our shareholders who receive solely FNB common stock will not
recognize any gain or loss on the exchange of their common stock
in the merger, except to the extent they receive cash instead of
fractional shares in addition to FNB common stock. Our
shareholders who receive a combination of cash and FNB common
stock pursuant to the exercise of FNBs option to pay part
of the consideration in cash in accordance with the terms of the
merger agreement will realize gain to the extent that the amount
of cash received plus the value of the FNB common stock received
exceeds their tax basis in the North East common stock. These
shareholders will recognize gain, but not loss, in an amount
equal to the lesser of the amount of the gain realized or the
amount of the cash received.
Dividends (Page 43)
During 2004, FNB paid cash dividends on its common stock
totaling $0.92 per share, and paid a cash dividend of
$.23 per share for each of the first and second quarters of
2005. Although FNB has no current plan or intention to increase
its dividend rate, FNBs board of directors may, subject to
applicable law, change FNBs dividend rate in the future.
FNBs ability to pay dividends on its common stock is
subject to various legal and regulatory limitations.
Certain Differences in Rights of Shareholders
(Pages 65 75)
FNB is a Florida corporation. We are a Pennsylvania corporation.
When the merger is completed, the rights of our shareholders
will be governed by Florida law and FNBs Articles of
Incorporation and By-laws rather than Pennsylvania law and our
Articles of Incorporation and By-laws.
7
Future FNB Acquisitions (Page 17)
As part of its growth strategy, FNB may acquire other bank or
financial services institutions to expand or strengthen its
market position. Risks associated with this strategy are
described in Risk Factors Relating to the Merger.
Comparative Market Prices and Dividends
(Page 76)
FNB common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under
the symbol FNB. Our common stock is traded over the
counter under the symbol NEBI. The table on
Page 76 lists the quarterly price range of FNB common stock
and our common stock since 2003 as well as the quarterly cash
dividends FNB has paid. The following table shows the closing
price of FNB common stock and our common stock as reported on
April 22, 2005, the last trading day before we announced
the merger, and on August 11, 2005, the last practicable
trading day before the date of printing of this proxy statement/
prospectus.
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FNB Common Stock | |
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North East Common Stock | |
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April 22, 2005
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$ |
18.75 |
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$ |
52.00 |
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August 11, 2005
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$ |
18.45 |
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$ |
105.75 |
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Questions and Additional Information (Page 79)
If you have questions about the merger or how to submit your
proxy card, or if you need additional copies of this proxy
statement/ prospectus or the enclosed proxy card, please call
David B. Hartman, our President and Chief Executive Officer, at
(814) 725-7222.
8
SELECTED CONSOLIDATED HISTORICAL FINANCIAL DATA OF FNB
Set forth below are highlights from FNBs consolidated
financial data as of and for the years December 31, 2000
through 2004 and FNBs unaudited consolidated financial
data as of and for the six months ended June 30, 2004 and
2005. FNBs results of operations for the six months ended
June 30, 2005 are not necessarily indicative of the results
of operations of FNB for the full year. FNB management prepared
the unaudited information on the same basis as it prepared
FNBs audited consolidated financial statements. In the
opinion of FNBs management, this information reflects all
adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments,
necessary for a fair presentation of this data for these
periods. You should read this information in conjunction with
FNBs consolidated financial statements and related notes
included in FNBs Annual Report on Form 10-K for the
year ended December 31, 2004, as amended on
Form 10-K/A, and FNBs Quarterly Report on
Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2005 that are
incorporated by reference in this proxy statement/ prospectus
and from which this information is derived. See Where You
Can Find More Information on Page 79.
Selected Consolidated Historical Financial Data of FNB
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Six Months Ended | |
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June 30, | |
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Year Ended December 31, | |
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| |
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2005 | |
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2004 | |
|
2004 | |
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2003 | |
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2002 | |
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2001 | |
|
2000 | |
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| |
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| |
|
| |
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| |
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| |
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| |
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| |
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(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts) | |
Summary of Earnings Data:
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|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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|
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Interest income
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|
$ |
143,613 |
|
|
$ |
123,492 |
|
|
$ |
254,448 |
|
|
$ |
257,019 |
|
|
$ |
275,853 |
|
|
$ |
301,638 |
|
|
$ |
300,514 |
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Interest expense
|
|
|
49,825 |
|
|
|
39,819 |
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|
|
84,390 |
|
|
|
86,990 |
|
|
|
98,372 |
|
|
|
134,984 |
|
|
|
136,775 |
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Net interest income
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|
|
93,788 |
|
|
|
83,673 |
|
|
|
170,058 |
|
|
|
170,029 |
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|
|
177,481 |
|
|
|
166,654 |
|
|
|
163,739 |
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Provision for loan losses
|
|
|
5,017 |
|
|
|
8,242 |
|
|
|
16,280 |
|
|
|
17,155 |
|
|
|
13,624 |
|
|
|
26,727 |
|
|
|
12,393 |
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Net interest income after provision for loan losses
|
|
|
88,771 |
|
|
|
75,431 |
|
|
|
153,778 |
|
|
|
152,874 |
|
|
|
163,857 |
|
|
|
139,927 |
|
|
|
151,346 |
|
Non-interest income
|
|
|
36,746 |
|
|
|
38,149 |
|
|
|
78,141 |
|
|
|
68,155 |
|
|
|
66,145 |
|
|
|
52,015 |
|
|
|
43,704 |
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Non-interest expense
|
|
|
78,557 |
|
|
|
68,068 |
|
|
|
142,587 |
|
|
|
185,025 |
|
|
|
185,003 |
|
|
|
149,259 |
|
|
|
136,248 |
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Income before income taxes
|
|
|
46,960 |
|
|
|
45,512 |
|
|
|
89,332 |
|
|
|
36,004 |
|
|
|
44,999 |
|
|
|
42,683 |
|
|
|
58,802 |
|
Provision for income taxes
|
|
|
14,509 |
|
|
|
14,225 |
|
|
|
27,537 |
|
|
|
8,966 |
|
|
|
13,728 |
|
|
|
10,914 |
|
|
|
16,649 |
|
Income from continuing operations
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|
|
32,451 |
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|
|
31,287 |
|
|
|
61,795 |
|
|
|
27,038 |
|
|
|
31,271 |
|
|
|
31,769 |
|
|
|
42,153 |
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Income from discontinued operations, net of taxes
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
31,751 |
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|
|
32,064 |
|
|
|
21,216 |
|
|
|
19,755 |
|
Net income
|
|
$ |
32,451 |
|
|
$ |
31,287 |
|
|
$ |
61,795 |
|
|
$ |
58,789 |
|
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$ |
63,335 |
|
|
$ |
52,985 |
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$ |
61,908 |
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Per Share Data(1):
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Basic earnings per share:
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Continuing operations
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$ |
0.59 |
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|
$ |
0.68 |
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$ |
1.31 |
|
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$ |
0.58 |
|
|
$ |
0.68 |
|
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$ |
0.71 |
|
|
$ |
0.94 |
|
|
Discontinued operations
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.69 |
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|
|
0.69 |
|
|
|
0.48 |
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|
|
0.44 |
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Net income
|
|
|
0.59 |
|
|
|
0.68 |
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|
|
1.31 |
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|
|
1.27 |
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|
|
1.37 |
|
|
|
1.19 |
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|
|
1.38 |
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Diluted earnings per share:
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|
|
|
|
|
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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Continuing operations
|
|
|
0.59 |
|
|
|
0.66 |
|
|
|
1.29 |
|
|
|
0.57 |
|
|
|
0.67 |
|
|
|
0.70 |
|
|
|
0.92 |
|
|
Discontinued operations
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.68 |
|
|
|
0.68 |
|
|
|
0.47 |
|
|
|
0.43 |
|
|
Net income
|
|
|
0.59 |
|
|
|
0.66 |
|
|
|
1.29 |
|
|
|
1.25 |
|
|
|
1.35 |
|
|
|
1.17 |
|
|
|
1.35 |
|
Dividends paid
|
|
|
0.46 |
|
|
|
0.46 |
|
|
|
0.92 |
|
|
|
0.93 |
|
|
|
0.81 |
|
|
|
0.68 |
|
|
|
0.61 |
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Book value per share at period end(2)
|
|
|
8.17 |
|
|
|
5.02 |
|
|
|
6.47 |
|
|
|
13.10 |
|
|
|
12.93 |
|
|
|
12.37 |
|
|
|
10.87 |
|
Average number of shares outstanding:
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|
|
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|
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|
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Basic
|
|
|
54,667,431 |
|
|
|
46,219,548 |
|
|
|
47,180,471 |
|
|
|
46,080,966 |
|
|
|
46,012,908 |
|
|
|
44,289,772 |
|
|
|
44,748,338 |
|
|
Diluted
|
|
|
55,413,899 |
|
|
|
47,055,031 |
|
|
|
48,012,339 |
|
|
|
46,972,863 |
|
|
|
47,073,785 |
|
|
|
45,385,495 |
|
|
|
45,690,289 |
|
9
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|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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Six Months Ended | |
|
|
|
|
June 30, | |
|
Year Ended December 31, | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
|
2005 | |
|
2004 | |
|
2004 | |
|
2003 | |
|
2002 | |
|
2001 | |
|
2000 | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
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(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts) | |
Statement of Condition Data (at end of period):
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Assets
|
|
$ |
5,701,883 |
|
|
$ |
4,771,095 |
|
|
$ |
5,027,009 |
|
|
$ |
8,308,310 |
|
|
$ |
7,090,232 |
|
|
$ |
6,488,383 |
|
|
$ |
6,126,792 |
|
Assets of discontinued operations
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
3,751,136 |
|
|
|
2,735,204 |
|
|
|
2,202,004 |
|
|
|
2,125,737 |
|
Net loans
|
|
|
3,696,372 |
|
|
|
3,180,790 |
|
|
|
3,338,994 |
|
|
|
3,213,058 |
|
|
|
3,188,223 |
|
|
|
3,061,936 |
|
|
|
2,980,248 |
|
Deposits
|
|
|
3,959,320 |
|
|
|
3,357,792 |
|
|
|
3,598,087 |
|
|
|
3,439,510 |
|
|
|
3,304,105 |
|
|
|
3,338,913 |
|
|
|
3,227,249 |
|
Short-term borrowings
|
|
|
490,840 |
|
|
|
417,935 |
|
|
|
395,106 |
|
|
|
232,966 |
|
|
|
255,370 |
|
|
|
209,912 |
|
|
|
177,580 |
|
Long-term debt
|
|
|
727,456 |
|
|
|
700,245 |
|
|
|
636,209 |
|
|
|
584,808 |
|
|
|
400,056 |
|
|
|
276,802 |
|
|
|
198,907 |
|
Liabilities of discontinued operations
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
3,386,021 |
|
|
|
2,467,123 |
|
|
|
2,022,538 |
|
|
|
1,954,863 |
|
Total stockholders equity(2)
|
|
|
459,819 |
|
|
|
232,508 |
|
|
|
324,102 |
|
|
|
606,909 |
|
|
|
598,596 |
|
|
|
572,407 |
|
|
|
503,422 |
|
Significant Ratios:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Return on average assets(2)
|
|
|
1.20 |
% |
|
|
1.36 |
% |
|
|
1.29 |
% |
|
|
0.74 |
% |
|
|
0.93 |
% |
|
|
0.84 |
% |
|
|
1.03 |
% |
Return on average equity(2)
|
|
|
15.56 |
|
|
|
26.03 |
|
|
|
23.54 |
|
|
|
9.66 |
|
|
|
10.97 |
|
|
|
9.81 |
|
|
|
12.28 |
|
Ratio of average equity to average assets(2)
|
|
|
7.71 |
|
|
|
5.22 |
|
|
|
5.50 |
|
|
|
7.66 |
|
|
|
8.51 |
|
|
|
8.58 |
|
|
|
8.42 |
|
Dividend payout ratio(2)
|
|
|
79.76 |
|
|
|
67.93 |
|
|
|
70.36 |
|
|
|
72.90 |
|
|
|
59.03 |
|
|
|
52.81 |
|
|
|
45.36 |
|
|
|
(1) |
Per share amounts for 2003, 2002, 2001 and 2000 have been
restated for the common stock dividend declared on
April 28, 2003. |
|
|
(2) |
Effective January 1, 2004, FNB completed the spin-off of
its Florida operations into a separate, independent public
company. As a result of the spin-off, the Florida
operations prior years earnings have been classified as
discontinued operations on FNBs consolidated income
statements and the assets and liabilities related to the
discontinued operations have been disclosed separately on
FNBs consolidated balance sheets for prior years. In
addition, the book value at period end, stockholders
equity, the return on average assets ratio, the return on
average equity ratio and the dividend payout ratio for prior
years include the discontinued operation. |
|
10
SELECTED CONSOLIDATED HISTORICAL FINANCIAL DATA OF NORTH
EAST
Set forth below are highlights from North Easts
consolidated financial data as of and for the years
December 31, 2000 through 2004 and as of and for the six
months ended June 30, 2004 and 2005. In the opinion of
North Easts management, this information reflects all
adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments,
necessary for a fair presentation of this data for these
periods. You should read this information in conjunction with
North Easts consolidated financial statements and related
notes that are included in this proxy statement/prospectus and
from which this information is derived.
Selected Consolidated Historical Financial Data of North
East
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Six Months Ended | |
|
|
|
|
June 30, | |
|
Year Ended December 31, | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
|
2005 | |
|
2004 | |
|
2004 | |
|
2003 | |
|
2002 | |
|
2001 | |
|
2000 | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
|
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts) | |
Summary of Earnings Data:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest income
|
|
$ |
1,899 |
|
|
$ |
1,762 |
|
|
$ |
3,642 |
|
|
$ |
3,939 |
|
|
$ |
4,448 |
|
|
$ |
5,882 |
|
|
$ |
6,695 |
|
Interest expense
|
|
|
427 |
|
|
|
398 |
|
|
|
757 |
|
|
|
962 |
|
|
|
1,330 |
|
|
|
2,409 |
|
|
|
3,003 |
|
Net interest income
|
|
|
1,472 |
|
|
|
1,364 |
|
|
|
2,885 |
|
|
|
2,977 |
|
|
|
3,118 |
|
|
|
3,473 |
|
|
|
3,692 |
|
Provision for loan losses
|
|
|
(47 |
) |
|
|
272 |
|
|
|
849 |
|
|
|
653 |
|
|
|
617 |
|
|
|
60 |
|
|
|
30 |
|
Net interest income after provision for loan losses
|
|
|
1,519 |
|
|
|
1,092 |
|
|
|
2,036 |
|
|
|
2,324 |
|
|
|
2,501 |
|
|
|
3,413 |
|
|
|
3,662 |
|
Non-interest income
|
|
|
294 |
|
|
|
347 |
|
|
|
643 |
|
|
|
735 |
|
|
|
1,065 |
|
|
|
779 |
|
|
|
667 |
|
Non-interest expense
|
|
|
1,801 |
|
|
|
1,925 |
|
|
|
3,699 |
|
|
|
3,839 |
|
|
|
3,642 |
|
|
|
3,765 |
|
|
|
3,497 |
|
Income (loss) before income taxes
|
|
|
12 |
|
|
|
(486 |
) |
|
|
(1,020 |
) |
|
|
(780 |
) |
|
|
(76 |
) |
|
|
427 |
|
|
|
832 |
|
Provision for income taxes (benefit)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(77 |
) |
|
|
76 |
|
|
|
195 |
|
Net income (loss)
|
|
|
12 |
|
|
|
(486 |
) |
|
|
(1,020 |
) |
|
|
(780 |
) |
|
|
1 |
|
|
|
351 |
|
|
|
637 |
|
Per Share Data:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Earnings (loss) per share:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Basic
|
|
$ |
0.08 |
|
|
$ |
(3.35 |
) |
|
$ |
(7.03 |
) |
|
$ |
(5.37 |
) |
|
$ |
0.01 |
|
|
$ |
2.42 |
|
|
$ |
4.39 |
|
|
Diluted
|
|
|
0.08 |
|
|
|
(3.35 |
) |
|
|
(7.03 |
) |
|
|
(5.37 |
) |
|
|
0.01 |
|
|
|
2.42 |
|
|
|
4.39 |
|
Dividends paid
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.10 |
|
|
|
1.08 |
|
|
|
1.08 |
|
|
|
1.08 |
|
Book value per share at period end
|
|
|
46.86 |
|
|
|
50.67 |
|
|
|
47.00 |
|
|
|
54.16 |
|
|
|
59.66 |
|
|
|
60.80 |
|
|
|
59.35 |
|
Average number of shares outstanding:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Basic
|
|
|
145,168 |
|
|
|
145,168 |
|
|
|
145,168 |
|
|
|
145,168 |
|
|
|
145,168 |
|
|
|
145,168 |
|
|
|
145,168 |
|
|
Diluted
|
|
|
145,168 |
|
|
|
145,168 |
|
|
|
145,168 |
|
|
|
145,168 |
|
|
|
145,168 |
|
|
|
145,168 |
|
|
|
145,168 |
|
Statement of Condition Data (at end of period):
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total assets
|
|
$ |
64,961 |
|
|
$ |
75,242 |
|
|
$ |
68,678 |
|
|
$ |
81,446 |
|
|
$ |
77,981 |
|
|
$ |
82,585 |
|
|
$ |
88,738 |
|
Net loans
|
|
|
49,781 |
|
|
|
49,880 |
|
|
|
50,016 |
|
|
|
52,546 |
|
|
|
58,256 |
|
|
|
54,285 |
|
|
|
54,656 |
|
Deposits
|
|
|
57,753 |
|
|
|
67,356 |
|
|
|
61,436 |
|
|
|
73,114 |
|
|
|
68,805 |
|
|
|
73,077 |
|
|
|
79,217 |
|
Long-term debt
|
|
|
292 |
|
|
|
303 |
|
|
|
298 |
|
|
|
307 |
|
|
|
316 |
|
|
|
325 |
|
|
|
333 |
|
Total shareholders equity
|
|
|
6,841 |
|
|
|
7,355 |
|
|
|
6,823 |
|
|
|
7,862 |
|
|
|
8,660 |
|
|
|
8,826 |
|
|
|
8,615 |
|
Significant Ratios:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Return on average assets
|
|
|
0.04 |
% |
|
|
(1.22 |
)% |
|
|
(1.36 |
)% |
|
|
(0.98 |
)% |
|
|
|
% |
|
|
0.41 |
% |
|
|
0.72 |
% |
Return on average equity
|
|
|
0.36 |
|
|
|
(12.65 |
) |
|
|
(13.89 |
) |
|
|
(9.44 |
) |
|
|
0.01 |
|
|
|
4.02 |
|
|
|
7.62 |
|
Ratio of average equity to average assets
|
|
|
10.20 |
|
|
|
9.65 |
|
|
|
9.78 |
|
|
|
10.36 |
|
|
|
10.89 |
|
|
|
10.18 |
|
|
|
9.42 |
|
Dividend payout ratio
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1.92 |
) |
|
|
15,700.00 |
|
|
|
44.73 |
|
|
|
24.65 |
|
11
SELECTED CONSOLIDATED UNAUDITED PRO FORMA FINANCIAL
INFORMATION
The following table sets forth information about FNBs
financial condition and results of operations, including per
share data and financial ratios, after giving effect to the
February 18, 2005 merger of NSD Corporation
(NSD) with and into FNB, and the merger of North
East with and into FNB. This information is called pro forma
financial information in this proxy statement/ prospectus. The
table shows the information as if the mergers had become
effective on June 30, 2005, in the case of balance sheet
data, and on January 1, 2004, in the case of income
statement data. This pro forma information assumes that the
mergers are accounted for using the purchase method of
accounting and represents a current estimate based on available
information about FNBs and North Easts results of
operations. See Accounting Treatment on
Page 55. The pro forma financial information includes
adjustments to record the assets and liabilities of NSD and
North East at their estimated fair value and is subject to
further adjustment as additional information becomes available
and as further analyses are completed. The pro forma income
statements do not include any amount for merger-related costs
that will be incurred to combine the operations of North East
with those of FNB. These charges will be recorded based on the
nature and timing of the integration. This table should be read
in conjunction with, and is qualified in its entirety by, the
historical financial statements, including the notes thereto, of
North East and FNB incorporated by reference in this proxy
statement/ prospectus. See Where You Can Find More
Information on Page 79.
The pro forma financial information, while helpful in
illustrating the combined financial condition and results of
operations of NSD, North East and FNB once the merger with North
East is completed under a particular set of assumptions, does
not reflect the impact of possible revenue enhancements, expense
efficiencies and asset dispositions, among other possibilities,
that may occur as a result of the mergers and, accordingly, does
not attempt to predict future results. The pro forma financial
information also does not necessarily reflect what the combined
historical results of operations of NSD, North East and FNB
would have been had they been merged during these periods.
12
Selected Consolidated Unaudited Pro Forma Financial
Information
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
As of June 30, 2005 | |
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
Pro Forma | |
|
Pro Forma | |
|
|
FNB | |
|
North East | |
|
Adjustments | |
|
Combined | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
|
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data) | |
Assets
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash and cash equivalents
|
|
$ |
125,179 |
|
|
$ |
5,960 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
131,139 |
|
|
Investment securities
|
|
|
1,337,373 |
|
|
|
2,403 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,339,776 |
|
|
Loans, net of unearned income
|
|
|
3,746,569 |
|
|
|
51,680 |
|
|
|
731 |
|
|
|
3,798,980 |
|
|
Allowance for loan losses
|
|
|
(50,197 |
) |
|
|
(1,899 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(52,096 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net loans
|
|
|
3,696,372 |
|
|
|
49,781 |
|
|
|
731 |
|
|
|
3,746,884 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Premises and equipment
|
|
|
81,195 |
|
|
|
5,350 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
86,545 |
|
|
Goodwill
|
|
|
190,093 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
7,923 |
|
|
|
198,016 |
|
|
Other intangibles
|
|
|
24,522 |
|
|
|
32 |
|
|
|
83 |
|
|
|
24,637 |
|
|
Other assets
|
|
|
247,149 |
|
|
|
1,435 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
248,584 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total assets
|
|
$ |
5,701,883 |
|
|
$ |
64,961 |
|
|
$ |
8,737 |
|
|
$ |
5,775,581 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Liabilities
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Deposits
|
|
$ |
3,959,320 |
|
|
$ |
57,753 |
|
|
$ |
48 |
|
|
$ |
4,017,121 |
|
|
Other borrowings
|
|
|
1,218,296 |
|
|
|
292 |
|
|
|
32 |
|
|
|
1,218,620 |
|
|
Other liabilities
|
|
|
64,448 |
|
|
|
75 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
64,523 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total liabilities
|
|
|
5,242,064 |
|
|
|
58,120 |
|
|
|
80 |
|
|
|
5,300,264 |
|
Stockholders equity
|
|
|
459,819 |
|
|
|
6,841 |
|
|
|
8,657 |
|
|
|
475,317 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total liabilities and stockholders equity
|
|
$ |
5,701,883 |
|
|
$ |
64,961 |
|
|
$ |
8,737 |
|
|
$ |
5,775,581 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Book value per share
|
|
$ |
8.17 |
|
|
$ |
47.12 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
8.32 |
|
Shares outstanding
|
|
|
56,293,407 |
|
|
|
145,168 |
|
|
|
693,093 |
|
|
|
57,131,668 |
|
Capital ratios:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Tangible equity/tangible assets
|
|
|
4.47 |
% |
|
|
10.49 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
4.55 |
% |
|
Leverage capital ratio
|
|
|
6.81 |
|
|
|
10.13 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
6.86 |
|
See Notes to Selected Consolidated Unaudited Pro Forma Financial
Information
13
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Six Months Ended June 30, 2005 | |
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
Pro Forma | |
|
Pro Forma | |
|
|
FNB | |
|
North East | |
|
Adjustments | |
|
Combined | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
|
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data) | |
Total interest income
|
|
$ |
143,613 |
|
|
$ |
1,899 |
|
|
$ |
(72 |
) |
|
$ |
145,440 |
|
Total interest expense
|
|
|
49,825 |
|
|
|
427 |
|
|
|
(18 |
) |
|
|
50,234 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net interest income
|
|
|
93,788 |
|
|
|
1,472 |
|
|
|
(54 |
) |
|
|
95,206 |
|
Provision for loan losses
|
|
|
5,017 |
|
|
|
(47 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
4,970 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net interest income after provision for loan losses
|
|
|
88,771 |
|
|
|
1,519 |
|
|
|
(54 |
) |
|
|
90,236 |
|
Non-interest income
|
|
|
36,746 |
|
|
|
294 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
37,040 |
|
Non-interest expense
|
|
|
78,557 |
|
|
|
1,801 |
|
|
|
4 |
|
|
|
80,362 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income (loss) before income taxes
|
|
|
46,960 |
|
|
|
12 |
|
|
|
(58 |
) |
|
|
46,914 |
|
Income taxes
|
|
|
14,509 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
14,509 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net income (loss)
|
|
$ |
32,451 |
|
|
$ |
12 |
|
|
$ |
(58 |
) |
|
$ |
32,405 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Per common share:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Basic
|
|
$ |
0.59 |
|
|
$ |
0.08 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
0.58 |
|
|
Diluted
|
|
|
0.59 |
|
|
|
0.08 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.58 |
|
Ratios:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Return on average assets
|
|
|
1.20 |
% |
|
|
0.04 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
1.18 |
% |
|
Return on average equity
|
|
|
15.56 |
|
|
|
0.36 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
14.98 |
|
|
Dividend payout ratio
|
|
|
79.76 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
79.87 |
|
See Notes to Selected Consolidated Unaudited Pro Forma Financial
Information
14
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year Ended December 31, 2004 | |
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
Pro Forma | |
|
FNB Pro | |
|
|
|
Pro Forma | |
|
Pro Forma | |
|
|
FNB | |
|
NSD | |
|
Adjustments | |
|
Forma | |
|
North East | |
|
Adjustments | |
|
Combined | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
Total interest income
|
|
$ |
254,448 |
|
|
$ |
25,699 |
|
|
$ |
(236 |
) |
|
$ |
279,911 |
|
|
$ |
3,642 |
|
|
$ |
(144 |
) |
|
$ |
283,409 |
|
Total interest expense
|
|
|
84,390 |
|
|
|
10,175 |
|
|
|
(1,045 |
) |
|
|
93,520 |
|
|
|
757 |
|
|
|
(36 |
) |
|
|
94,241 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net interest income
|
|
|
170,058 |
|
|
|
15,524 |
|
|
|
809 |
|
|
|
186,391 |
|
|
|
2,885 |
|
|
|
(108 |
) |
|
|
189,168 |
|
Provision for loan losses
|
|
|
16,280 |
|
|
|
436 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
16,716 |
|
|
|
849 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
17,565 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net interest income after provision for loan losses
|
|
|
153,778 |
|
|
|
15,088 |
|
|
|
809 |
|
|
|
169,675 |
|
|
|
2,036 |
|
|
|
(108 |
) |
|
|
171,603 |
|
Non-interest income
|
|
|
78,141 |
|
|
|
5,399 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
83,540 |
|
|
|
643 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
84,183 |
|
Non-interest expense
|
|
|
142,587 |
|
|
|
14,567 |
|
|
|
864 |
|
|
|
158,018 |
|
|
|
3,699 |
|
|
|
8 |
|
|
|
161,725 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income (loss) before income taxes
|
|
|
89,332 |
|
|
|
5,920 |
|
|
|
(55 |
) |
|
|
95,197 |
|
|
|
(1,020 |
) |
|
|
(116 |
) |
|
|
94,061 |
|
Income taxes
|
|
|
27,537 |
|
|
|
1,603 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
29,140 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
29,140 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net income (loss)
|
|
$ |
61,795 |
|
|
$ |
4,317 |
|
|
$ |
(55 |
) |
|
$ |
66,057 |
|
|
$ |
(1,020 |
) |
|
$ |
(116 |
) |
|
$ |
64,921 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Earnings (loss) per common share:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Basic
|
|
$ |
1.31 |
|
|
$ |
1.27 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
1.24 |
|
|
$ |
(7.03 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
1.20 |
|
|
Diluted
|
|
|
1.29 |
|
|
|
1.25 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1.22 |
|
|
|
(7.03 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
1.18 |
|
Ratios:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Return on average assets
|
|
|
1.29 |
% |
|
|
0.85 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
1.23 |
% |
|
|
(1.36 |
)% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
1.19 |
% |
|
Return on average equity
|
|
|
23.54 |
|
|
|
10.91 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
16.93 |
|
|
|
(13.89 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
15.99 |
|
|
Dividend payout ratio
|
|
|
70.36 |
|
|
|
68.54 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
70.29 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
71.53 |
|
NOTE A:
The pro forma adjustments represent the estimated purchase
accounting entries to record the merger of North East with FNB.
The excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the net
assets acquired is allocated to goodwill. Estimated fair value
adjustments included in the unaudited pro forma balance sheet
and income statement have been determined based on information
available as of June 30, 2005. The final determination of
the fair values of the assets and liabilities will be made as of
the effective date of the merger. As such, the final purchase
accounting entries may differ from the estimates provided
herein. Fair value adjustments will be amortized on a straight
line basis over their estimated remaining lives.
The pro forma adjustments include an allocation of the purchase
price to core deposit intangibles. Under SFAS No. 141
and No. 142, accounting standards, a core deposit
intangible is separated from goodwill and amortized over its
remaining useful life. The remaining goodwill intangible is not
subject to amortization under SFAS No. 141 and
No. 142 and will be evaluated periodically for possible
impairment.
NOTE B:
The pro forma adjustment represents estimated direct acquisition
costs of approximately $2.0 million related to certain
severance payments, employee benefits, fees related to the early
termination of certain contracts and professional fees such as
legal, accounting and advisory fees.
15
RISK FACTORS RELATING TO THE MERGER
In addition to the other information contained in or
incorporated by reference into this proxy statement/ prospectus,
you should carefully consider the following risk factors in
deciding whether to vote in favor of the merger proposal.
Risks Specifically Related to the Merger
|
|
|
FNB may encounter integration difficulties or may fail to
realize the anticipated benefits of the merger. |
FNB and North East may not be able to integrate their operations
without encountering difficulties, including, without
limitation, the loss of key employees and customers, the
disruption of their respective ongoing businesses or possible
inconsistencies in standards, controls, procedures and policies.
In determining that the merger is in the best interests of FNB
and North East, their respective boards of directors considered
that enhanced earnings may result from the consummation of the
merger, including from reduction of duplicate costs, improved
efficiencies and cross-marketing opportunities. However, there
can be no assurance that any enhanced earnings will result from
the merger.
|
|
|
Future results of the combined companies may materially
differ from the pro forma financial information presented in
this proxy statement/ prospectus. |
Future results of the combined FNB and North East may be
materially different from those shown in the pro forma financial
statements that show only a combination of their historical
results. The costs FNB will incur in connection with the merger
may be higher or lower than FNB has estimated, depending upon
how costly or difficult it is to integrate FNB and North East.
Furthermore, these changes may decrease the capital of FNB after
the merger that could have otherwise been used for profitable,
income-earning investments in the future.
|
|
|
The merger agreement limits our ability to pursue
alternatives to the merger. |
The merger agreement contains provisions that, subject to
limited exceptions, limit our ability to discuss, facilitate or
enter into agreements with third parties to acquire us. In
general, if we avail ourselves of those limited exceptions, we
will be obligated to pay FNB a break-up fee of $750,000. These
provisions could discourage a potential competing acquiror that
might have an interest in acquiring us from proposing or
considering our acquisition even if that potential acquiror were
prepared to pay a higher price to our shareholders than the
price FNB proposes to pay under the merger agreement.
Risks Related to Owning FNB Common Stock
|
|
|
FNBs status as a holding company makes it dependent
on dividends from its subsidiaries to meet its
obligations. |
FNB is a holding company and conducts almost all of its
operations through its subsidiaries. FNB does not have any
significant assets other than the stock of its subsidiaries.
Accordingly, FNB depends on dividends from its subsidiaries to
meet its obligations and obtain revenue. FNBs right to
participate in any distribution of earnings or assets of its
subsidiaries is subject to the prior claims of creditors of such
subsidiaries. Under federal and state law, FNBs bank
subsidiary is limited in the amount of dividends it may pay to
FNB without prior regulatory approval. Also, bank regulators
have the authority to prohibit FNBs subsidiary bank from
paying dividends if the bank regulators determine the payment
would be an unsafe and unsound banking practice.
|
|
|
Interest rate volatility could significantly harm
FNBs business. |
FNBs results of operations are affected by the monetary
and fiscal policies of the federal government and the regulatory
policies of governmental authorities. A significant component of
FNBs earnings is its net interest income, which is the
difference between the income from interest-earning assets, such
as loans, and
16
the expense of interest-bearing liabilities, such as deposits. A
change in market interest rates could adversely affect
FNBs earnings if market interest rates change such that
the interest FNB pays on deposits and borrowings increases
faster than the interest it collects on loans and investments.
Consequently, FNB, along with other financial institutions
generally, is sensitive to interest rate fluctuations.
|
|
|
FNBs results of operations are significantly
affected by the ability of its borrowers to repay their
loans. |
Lending money is an essential part of the banking business.
However, borrowers do not always repay their loans. The risk of
non-payment is affected by:
|
|
|
|
|
credit risks of a particular borrower; |
|
|
|
changes in economic and industry conditions; |
|
|
|
the duration of the loan; and |
|
|
|
in the case of a collateralized loan, uncertainties as to the
future value of the collateral. |
Generally, commercial/industrial, construction and commercial
real estate loans present a greater risk of non-payment by a
borrower than other types of loans. In addition, consumer loans
typically have shorter terms and lower balances with higher
yields compared to real estate mortgage loans, but generally
carry higher risks of default. Consumer loan collections are
dependent on the borrowers continuing financial stability,
and thus are more likely to be affected by adverse personal
circumstances. Furthermore, the application of various federal
and state laws, including bankruptcy and insolvency laws, may
limit the amount that can be recovered on these loans.
|
|
|
FNBs financial condition and results of operations
would be adversely affected if its allowance for loan losses
were not sufficient to absorb actual losses. |
There is no precise method of predicting loan losses. FNB can
give no assurance that its allowance for loan losses is or will
be sufficient to absorb actual loan losses. Excess loan losses
could have a material adverse effect on FNBs financial
condition and results of operations. FNB attempts to maintain an
appropriate allowance for loan losses to provide for estimated
losses in its loan portfolio. FNB periodically determines the
amount of its allowance for loan losses based upon consideration
of several factors, including:
|
|
|
|
|
a regular review of the quality, mix and size of the overall
loan portfolio; |
|
|
|
historical loan loss experience; |
|
|
|
evaluation of non-performing loans; |
|
|
|
assessment of economic conditions and their effects on
FNBs existing portfolio; and |
|
|
|
the amount and quality of collateral, including guarantees,
securing loans. |
|
|
|
FNBs financial condition may be adversely affected
if it is unable to attract sufficient deposits to fund its
anticipated loan growth. |
FNB funds its loan growth primarily through deposits. To the
extent that FNB is unable to attract and maintain sufficient
levels of deposits to fund its loan growth, FNB would be
required to raise additional funds through public or private
financings. FNB can give no assurance that it would be able to
obtain these funds on terms that are favorable to it.
|
|
|
FNB could experience significant difficulties and
complications in connection with its growth and acquisition
strategy. |
FNB has grown significantly over the last few years and may seek
to continue to grow by acquiring financial institutions and
branches as well as non-depository entities engaged in
permissible activities for its financial institution
subsidiaries. However, the market for acquisitions is highly
competitive. FNB may not be
17
as successful in the future as it has been in the past in
identifying financial institution and branch acquisition
candidates, integrating acquired institutions or preventing
deposit erosion at acquired institutions or branches.
As part of its acquisition strategy, FNB may acquire additional
banks and non-bank entities that it believes provide a strategic
fit with its business. To the extent that FNB is successful with
this strategy, FNB cannot assure you that it will be able to
manage this growth adequately and profitably. For example,
acquiring any bank or non-bank entity will involve risks
commonly associated with acquisitions, including:
|
|
|
|
|
potential exposure to unknown or contingent liabilities of banks
and non-bank entities FNB acquires; |
|
|
|
exposure to potential asset quality issues of acquired banks and
non-bank entities; |
|
|
|
potential disruption to FNBs business; |
|
|
|
potential diversion of the time and attention of FNBs
management; and |
|
|
|
the possible loss of key employees and customers of the banks
and other businesses FNB acquires. |
In addition to acquisitions, FNB Bank may expand into additional
communities or attempt to strengthen its position in its current
markets by undertaking additional de novo branch openings. Based
on its experience, FNB believes that it generally takes up to
three years for new banking facilities to achieve operational
profitability due to the impact of organizational and overhead
expenses and the start-up phase of generating loans and
deposits. To the extent that FNB Bank undertakes additional de
novo branch openings, FNB Bank is likely to continue to
experience the effects of higher operating expenses relative to
operating income from the new banking facilities, which may have
an adverse effect on FNBs net income, earnings per share,
return on average shareholders equity and return on
average assets.
FNB may encounter unforeseen expenses, as well as difficulties
and complications in integrating expanded operations and new
employees without disruption to its overall operations.
Following each acquisition, FNB must expend substantial
resources to integrate the entities. The integration of
non-banking entities often involves combining different industry
cultures and business methodologies. The failure to integrate
successfully the entities FNB acquires into its existing
operations may adversely affect its results of operations and
financial condition.
|
|
|
FNB could be adversely affected by changes in the law,
especially changes in the regulation of the banking
industry. |
FNB and its subsidiaries operate in a highly regulated
environment and are subject to supervision and regulation by
several governmental regulatory agencies, including the Federal
Reserve Board, the OCC and the Federal Deposit Insurance
Corporation, which we sometimes refer to as the FDIC
in this proxy statement/ prospectus. Regulations are generally
intended to provide protection for depositors and customers
rather than for investors. FNB is subject to changes in federal
and state law, regulations, governmental policies, income tax
laws and accounting principles. Changes in regulation could
adversely affect the banking industry as a whole and could limit
FNBs growth and the return to investors by restricting
such activities as:
|
|
|
|
|
the payment of dividends; |
|
|
|
mergers with or acquisitions of other institutions; |
|
|
|
investments; |
|
|
|
loans and interest rates; |
|
|
|
the provision of securities, insurance or trust
services; and |
|
|
|
the types of non-deposit activities in which FNBs
financial institution subsidiaries may engage. |
In addition, legislation may change present capital
requirements, which could restrict FNBs activities and
require FNB to maintain additional capital.
18
|
|
|
FNBs results of operations could be adversely
affected due to significant competition. |
FNB may not be able to compete effectively in its markets, which
could adversely affect FNBs results of operations. The
banking and financial service industry in each of FNBs
market areas is highly competitive. The competitive environment
is a result of:
|
|
|
|
|
changes in regulation; |
|
|
|
changes in technology and product delivery systems; and |
|
|
|
the accelerated pace of consolidation among financial services
providers. |
FNB competes for loans, deposits and customers with various bank
and non-bank financial service providers, many of which are
larger in terms of total assets and capitalization, have greater
access to the capital markets and offer a broader array of
financial services than FNB does. Competition with such
institutions may cause FNB to increase its deposit rates or
decrease its interest rate spread on loans it originates.
|
|
|
FNBs continued pace of growth may require it to
raise additional capital in the future, but that capital may not
be available when it is needed. |
FNB is required by federal and state regulatory authorities to
maintain adequate levels of capital to support its operations.
As a financial holding company, FNB seeks to maintain capital
sufficient to meet the well capitalized standard set
by regulators. FNB anticipates that its current capital
resources will satisfy its capital requirements for the
foreseeable future. FNB may at some point, however, need to
raise additional capital to support continued growth, both
internally and through acquisitions.
FNBs ability to raise additional capital, if needed, will
depend on conditions in the capital markets at that time, which
are outside FNBs control, and on its financial
performance. Accordingly, FNB cannot assure you of its ability
to raise additional capital, if needed, on terms acceptable to
it. If FNB cannot raise additional capital when needed, its
ability to expand its operations through internal growth and
acquisitions could be materially impaired.
|
|
|
Adverse economic conditions in FNBs market area may
adversely impact its results of operations and financial
condition. |
The majority of FNBs business is concentrated in western
Pennsylvania and eastern Ohio, which are traditionally slower
growth markets than other areas of the United States. As a
result, FNB Banks loan portfolio and results of operations
may be adversely affected by factors that have a significant
impact on the economic conditions in this market area. The local
economies of this market area historically have been less robust
than the economy of the nation as a whole and may not be subject
to the same fluctuations as the national economy. Adverse
economic conditions in FNBs market area, including the
loss of certain significant employers, could reduce its growth
rate, affect its borrowers ability to repay their loans
and generally affect FNBs financial condition and results
of operations. Furthermore, a downturn in real estate values in
FNB Banks market area could cause many of its loans to
become inadequately collateralized.
|
|
|
Certain provisions of FNBs Articles of Incorporation
and By-laws and Florida law may discourage takeovers. |
FNBs Articles of Incorporation and By-laws contain certain
anti-takeover provisions that may discourage or may make more
difficult or expensive a tender offer, change in control or
takeover attempt that is opposed by FNBs board of
directors. In particular, FNBs Articles of Incorporation
and By-laws:
|
|
|
|
|
classify its board of directors into three classes, so that
shareholders elect only one-third of its board of directors each
year; |
|
|
|
permit shareholders to remove directors only for cause; |
|
|
|
do not permit shareholders to take action except at an annual or
special meeting of shareholders; |
19
|
|
|
|
|
require shareholders to give FNB advance notice to nominate
candidates for election to its board of directors or to make
shareholder proposals at a shareholders meeting; |
|
|
|
permit FNBs board of directors to issue, without
shareholder approval unless otherwise required by law, preferred
stock with such terms as its board of directors may
determine; and |
|
|
|
require the vote of the holders of at least 75% of FNBs
voting shares for shareholder amendments to its By-laws. |
Under Florida law, the approval of a business combination with
shareholders owning 10% or more of the voting shares of a
corporation requires the vote of holders of at least 2/3 of the
voting shares not owned by such shareholder, unless the
transaction is approved by a majority of the corporations
disinterested directors. In addition, Florida law generally
provides that shares of a corporation acquired in excess of
certain specified thresholds will not possess any voting rights
unless the voting rights are approved by a majority vote of the
corporations disinterested shareholders.
These provisions of FNBs Articles of Incorporation and
By-laws and of Florida law could discourage potential
acquisition proposals and could delay or prevent a change in
control, even though a majority of FNBs shareholders may
consider such proposals desirable. Such provisions could also
make it more difficult for third parties to remove and replace
the members of FNBs board of directors. Moreover, these
provisions could diminish the opportunities for shareholders to
participate in certain tender offers, including tender offers at
prices above the then-current market price of FNBs common
stock, and may also inhibit increases in the trading price of
FNBs common stock that could result from takeover attempts.
|
|
|
Loss of members of FNBs executive team could have a
negative impact on its business. |
FNBs success is dependent, in part, on the continued
service of its executive officers. The loss of the services of
one or more of FNBs executive officers could have a
negative impact on FNBs business because of their skills,
relationships in the banking community and years of industry
experience, and the difficulty of promptly finding qualified
replacement executive officers.
CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This proxy statement/prospectus contains or incorporates by
reference a number of forward-looking statements regarding the
financial condition, results of operations, earnings outlook,
business and prospects of FNB, North East and the potential
combined company as well as statements for the period following
the completion of the merger. Many of these statements use words
such as plan, believe,
expect, intend, anticipate,
estimate, project,
potential, possible or other similar
expressions.
The forward-looking statements involve certain risks and
uncertainties. The ability of either FNB or North East to
predict results or the actual effects of their plans and
strategies, or those of the combined company, is inherently
uncertain. Accordingly, actual results may differ materially
from anticipated results. Some of the factors that may cause
actual results or earnings to differ materially from those
contemplated by the forward-looking statements include, but are
not limited to, those discussed under Risk Factors
Relating to the Merger beginning on Page 16, as well
as the following:
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the businesses of FNB and North East may not be integrated
successfully or the integration may be more difficult,
time-consuming or costly than currently anticipated; |
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expected revenue synergies and cost savings from the merger may
not be realized within the expected time frame or at all; |
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revenues may be lower than expected following the merger; |
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deposit attrition, operating costs, loss of customers and
business disruption, including, without limitation, difficulties
in maintaining relationships with our employees, customers or
suppliers may be greater than anticipated following the merger; |
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the regulatory approvals for the merger may not be obtained on
acceptable terms, on the anticipated schedule or at all; |
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the merger may not be approved by the requisite vote of our
shareholders; |
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competitive pressure among financial services companies is
intense; |
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general economic conditions may be less favorable than expected; |
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political conditions and related actions by the United States
military abroad may adversely affect economic conditions as a
whole; |
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changes in the interest rate environment may reduce interest
margins and impact funding sources; |
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changes in market rates and prices may adversely impact the
value of financial products and assets; |
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legislation or changes in the regulatory environment may
adversely affect the businesses in which FNB and North East are
engaged; and |
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litigation liabilities, including costs, expenses, settlements
and judgments, may adversely affect either FNB or North East or
their businesses. |
Because these forward-looking statements are subject to
assumptions and uncertainties, actual results may differ
materially from those expressed or implied by these
forward-looking statements. You are cautioned not to place undue
reliance on these statements, which speak only as of the date of
this proxy statement/prospectus or the date of any document
incorporated by reference in this proxy statement/prospectus.
All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements
concerning the merger or other matters addressed in this proxy
statement/prospectus and attributable to FNB or North East or
any person acting on their behalf are expressly qualified in
their entirety by the cautionary statements contained or
referred to in this section. Except to the extent required by
applicable law or regulation, FNB and North East undertake no
obligation to update these forward-looking statements to reflect
events or circumstances after the date of this proxy
statement/prospectus or to reflect the occurrence of
unanticipated events.
OUR SPECIAL MEETING
This section contains information for our shareholders about the
special meeting of shareholders we have called to consider the
approval of the merger proposal and related matters.
General
This proxy statement/prospectus is being furnished to holders of
our common stock for use at our special meeting and any
adjournment, postponement or continuation of our special meeting.
When and Where Our Special Meeting Will Be Held
Our special meeting will be held on September 20, 2005, at
11:00 a.m., prevailing time, at the main office of North
East Bank, 5999 Station Road, North East,
Pennsylvania 16428 subject to any adjournment, postponement
or continuation of our special meeting.
Matters to Be Considered
The purpose of our special meeting is to consider and vote upon:
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Proposal 1 A proposal to approve and adopt the
merger agreement between FNB and us; |
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Proposal 2 A proposal to grant discretionary
authority to adjourn our special meeting if necessary to permit
further solicitation of proxies because we have not received
sufficient votes at the time of our special meeting to approve
the merger proposal; and |
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Such other business as may properly come before our special
meeting and any adjournment, postponement or continuation of our
special meeting. |
Our shareholders must approve Proposal 1 for the merger to
occur. If our shareholders fail to approve this proposal, the
merger will not occur.
At this time, our board of directors is unaware of any other
matters, other than as set forth above, that may be presented
for action at our special meeting. If other matters are properly
presented, however, the persons named as proxies will vote in
accordance with their judgment with respect to such matters.
Record Date; Shares Outstanding and Entitled to
Vote
Our board of directors has fixed the close of business on
August 9, 2005 as the record date for the determination of
holders of our common stock who shall be entitled to notice of,
and to vote at, our special meeting and any adjournment,
postponement or continuation of our special meeting.
On the record date, 145,168 shares of our common stock were
issued and outstanding and entitled to vote at our special
meeting, held by approximately 200 holders of record. Each share
of our common stock is entitled to cast one vote on all matters
that are properly submitted to our shareholders at our special
meeting.
Quorum
The presence, in person or by properly executed proxy, of the
holders of at least a majority of our outstanding shares of
common stock on the record date is necessary to constitute a
quorum at our special meeting. Abstentions will be counted
solely for the purpose of determining whether a quorum is
present. A quorum must be present in order for the vote on the
merger proposal and the adjournment proposal to occur.
Based on the number of shares of our common stock issued and
outstanding as of the record date, 72,585 shares of our
common stock must be present in person or represented by proxy
at our special meeting to constitute a quorum.
Shareholder Vote Required
Approve and Adopt the Merger Agreement. The affirmative
vote of the holders of a majority of our outstanding shares of
common stock on the record date and represented in person or by
proxy at our special meeting is required to approve the merger
proposal. Therefore, the failure to vote, either by proxy or in
person, will have the same effect as a vote against approval of
the merger proposal. Abstentions will also have the same effect
as a vote against approval of the merger proposal. Accordingly,
we urge you to complete, date and sign the accompanying proxy
card and return it promptly in the enclosed postage-paid
envelope.
When considering our board of directors recommendation
that you vote in favor of the approval and adoption of the
merger agreement, you should be aware that certain of our
executive officers and directors have interests in the merger
that may be different from, or in addition to, your interests as
a shareholder. See The Merger Interests of Our
Directors and Executive Officers in the Merger beginning
on Page 40.
Discretionary Authority to Adjourn Our Special Meeting.
The affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of our
outstanding shares of our common stock present in person or
represented by proxy at our special meeting is required to
approve the proposal to grant discretionary authority to adjourn
our special meeting if necessary to permit further solicitation
of proxies for the merger proposal. The failure to vote, either
by proxy or in person, will have no effect on the outcome of the
voting on the adjournment proposal. However, abstentions will
have the same effect as a vote against the adjournment proposal.
Director and Executive Officer Voting
As of the record date, our directors and executive officers and
their affiliates beneficially owned 25,934 shares of our
common stock, or approximately 18% of the issued and outstanding
shares of our common stock entitled to vote at our special
meeting.
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Proxies
Voting. You should complete and return the proxy card
accompanying this proxy statement/prospectus in order to ensure
that your vote is counted at our special meeting and at any
adjournment, postponement or continuation of our special
meeting, regardless of whether you plan to attend our special
meeting. If you sign and send in your proxy card and do not
indicate how you want to vote, we will count your proxy card as
a vote in favor of approval of the merger proposal and in favor
of approval of the adjournment proposal.
If your shares of our common stock are held in the name of a
bank, broker, nominee or other holder of record, you will
receive instructions from the bank, broker, nominee or other
holder of record that you must follow in order for your shares
of our common stock to be voted.
Revocability. You may revoke your proxy at any time
before the vote is taken at our special meeting. If you have not
voted through a bank, broker, nominee or other holder of record,
you may revoke your proxy by:
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submitting written notice of revocation to our corporate
secretary prior to the voting of that proxy at our special
meeting; |
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submitting a properly executed proxy with a later date; or |
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voting in person at our special meeting. |
However, simply attending our special meeting without voting
will not revoke an earlier proxy.
Written notices of revocation and other communications regarding
the revocation of your proxy should be addressed to:
North East Bancshares, Inc.
5999 Station Road
P.O. Box 270
North East, Pennsylvania 16428
Attention: David B. Hartman, President and Chief Executive
Officer
If your shares are held in the name of a bank, broker, nominee
or other holder of record, you should follow the instructions of
the bank, broker, nominee or other holder of record regarding
the revocation of proxies.
A proxy appointment will not be revoked by the death or
incapacity of the shareholder executing the proxy unless notice
of the death or incapacity is given to our corporate secretary
before the shares of our common stock represented by such proxy
are voted.
How Proxies are Counted. All shares of our common stock
represented by properly executed proxies received before or at
our special meeting, and not revoked, will be voted in
accordance with the instructions indicated in the proxies.
We will count a properly executed proxy marked
ABSTAIN as present for purposes of determining the
presence of a quorum, but an abstention will have the effect of
voting against approval of the merger proposal and voting
against approval of the adjournment proposal.
Brokers may not vote shares of our common stock that they hold
beneficially either for or against the approval of the merger
proposal without specific instructions from the person who
beneficially owns those shares. Therefore, if your shares are
held by a broker and you do not give your broker instructions on
how to vote your shares, this will have the same effect as
voting against approval of the merger proposal.
In addition, brokers may not vote on the adjournment proposal
without specific instructions from the person who beneficially
owns those shares. Nevertheless, shares held by a broker for
which you do not give your broker instructions on how to vote
will have no effect on the outcome of the voting on the
adjournment proposal.
Solicitation. We will pay for the costs of our special
meeting and for the mailing of this proxy statement/prospectus
to our shareholders, as well as all other costs we incur in
connection with the solicitation
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of proxies from our shareholders. However, we and FNB will share
equally the cost of printing this proxy statement/prospectus and
the filing fees paid to the SEC.
In addition to soliciting proxies by mail, our directors,
officers and employees may solicit proxies by telephone or in
person. Our directors, officers and employees will not be
specially compensated for these activities. We also intend to
request that brokers, banks, nominees and other holders of
record solicit proxies from their principals, and we will
reimburse the brokers, banks, nominees and other holders of
record for certain expenses they incur for those activities.
Recommendation of Our Board of Directors
Our board of directors unanimously approved the merger agreement
and the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement. Based
on our reasons for the merger described in this proxy
statement/prospectus, our board of directors believes that the
merger is in our best interests and those of our shareholders.
Accordingly, our board of directors unanimously recommends that
our shareholders vote FOR approval of the merger
proposal and FOR approval of the adjournment
proposal. See The Merger Our Board of
Directors Reasons for the Merger; Recommendation
beginning on Page 27, for a more detailed discussion of our
board of directors recommendation.
Attending Our Special Meeting
If your shares are held in street name and you want to attend
our special meeting, you must bring an account statement or
letter from your holder of record showing that you were the
beneficial owner of the shares on August 9, 2005, the
record date for our special meeting.
Questions and Additional Information
If you have more questions about the merger or how to submit
your proxy card, or if you need additional copies of this proxy
statement/prospectus or the enclosed proxy card, please call
David B. Hartman, our President and Chief Executive
Officer, at (814) 725-7222.
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INFORMATION ABOUT FNB AND NORTH EAST
North East Bancshares, Inc.
5999 Station Road
North East, Pennsylvania 16428
(814) 725-2265
We are a one-bank holding company organized under the laws of
the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. In addition, we are registered
with and supervised by the Federal Reserve Board. Our primary
business is the holding of all of the outstanding common shares
of our wholly owned subsidiary, North East Bank.
North East Bank is chartered under the laws of the United States
and is a member of the Federal Reserve System. North East
Banks deposits are insured by the FDIC, up to regulatory
limits. North East Bank is a full-service institution that
offers various demand and time deposit products and originates
secured and unsecured commercial, consumer and mortgage loans.
As of December 31, 2004, North East Bank had assets of
approximately $69 million, liabilities of approximately
$62 million and stockholders equity of approximately
$7 million. North East Bank has four full service offices
located in Erie County, Pennsylvania.
F.N.B. Corporation
One F.N.B. Boulevard
Hermitage, Pennsylvania 16148
(724) 981-6000
FNB is a $5.7 billion financial services holding company
headquartered in Hermitage, Pennsylvania. FNB provides a broad
range of financial services to its customers through FNB Bank
and its insurance agency, consumer finance and trust company
subsidiaries.
FNB Bank has 142 banking offices in western Pennsylvania
and eastern Ohio. FNB Bank offers the services traditionally
offered by full-service commercial banks, including commercial
and individual demand and time deposit accounts and commercial,
mortgage and individual installment loans. FNB Bank also offers
various alternative investment products, including mutual funds
and annuities. As of June 30, 2005, FNB Bank had total
assets, total liabilities and total stockholders equity of
approximately $5.5 billion, $5.0 billion and
$555 million, respectively.
Regency Finance, FNBs consumer finance subsidiary, has
23 offices in Pennsylvania, 15 offices in Ohio and
16 offices in Tennessee and principally makes personal
installment loans to individuals and purchases installment sales
finance contracts from retail merchants.
Another FNB subsidiary, First National Trust Company, a
registered investment advisor, provides a broad range of
personal and corporate fiduciary services, including the
administration of decedent and trust estates, and has
approximately $1.2 billion of assets under management.
FNBs insurance agency subsidiary is a full-service
insurance agency and, through its seven locations, offers
commercial and personal insurance products of major insurance
companies.
For additional information about FNB, see The
Merger, below, and Where You Can Find More
Information, beginning on Page 79.
THE MERGER
The following discussion contains material information
pertaining to the merger. This discussion is subject, and
qualified in its entirety by reference, to the merger agreement,
the financial advisors opinion and the provisions of the
BCL included as Appendices A, B and C to this proxy
statement/prospectus. We encourage you to read those documents
carefully as well as the discussion in this proxy
statement/prospectus.
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Background of the Merger
The past decade has been a period of rapid change in the banking
industry throughout the United States and in Pennsylvania. This
period has been characterized by intensified competition from
domestic and foreign banks and from non-bank financial services
organizations. This period has been characterized by increasing
requirements for investment in technology in order to meet
customer needs on an efficient and competitive basis. This
period has also seen an increase in regulatory pressure on
smaller banks in general and North East Bank in particular.
Our board of directors has continually reviewed the strategic
alternatives for maximizing shareholder value. This review
intensified as a result of the December 2004 amendment to our
June 2003 formal written agreement with the OCC. The agreement
as amended requires us to take various actions to protect the
interests of depositors, other customers and our shareholders.
These actions include a requirement that North East Bank achieve
and maintain certain minimum capital levels at each of
December 31, 2004, June 30, 2005 and December 31,
2005.
On December 30, 2004, Boenning presented information to our
board of directors on various strategic alternatives. The
information included a financial and market overview of North
East as well as various comparisons and analysis all aimed at
determining the most viable option for maximizing shareholder
value. Upon review and discussion of this information, our board
engaged Boenning and authorized it to proceed to identify
potential affiliation partners.
From January 12, 2005 to March 1, 2005, Boenning
worked with our management and advisors to create a memorandum
containing various financial and operational information about
us that could be used to solicit interest in an affiliation
transaction with us. At the same time, Boenning worked with our
management and several of our directors to generate a list of 30
potential affiliation partners. On March 1, 2005, Boenning
began to contact parties so identified to solicit indications of
interest. From the 30 identified parties, 21 indicated
sufficient interest to sign a confidentiality agreement and
seven of those ultimately indicated to Boenning that they had
interest in pursing a transaction with us.
On April 1, 2005, our full board along with the board of
North East Bank met to review and the discuss the various
indications of interest that had been submitted as a result of
the work of Boenning. At that meeting, Boenning presented to the
board an overview of the various indications of interest from
each of the seven parties. This overview analyzed the various
parties and their indications of interest in three general
areas: pricing, past financial performance of each interested
party and non-financial issues such as structure, employee
issues, management and board representation. After further
discussion, our board resolved to allow two of the interested
parties to conduct due diligence and to ask each of these two
institutions to deliver revised indications of interest after
the benefit of their due diligence review. FNB was one of these
two selected institutions.
On April 5, 2005 and April 6, 2005, the other selected
institution met with our management and other personnel and
reviewed our books and records to conduct its due diligence
review. On April 7, 2005 and April 8, 2005, FNB did
the same.
On April 11, 2005, both FNB and the other institution
submitted revised indications of interest to Boenning. On
April 11, 2005, both the North East and North East Bank
boards met again to discuss our options. At that meeting,
Boenning presented a detailed review of the two remaining
revised indications of interests. FNBs indication of
interest was improved from the indication that it had delivered
before its due diligence review. After detailed discussion of
the two offers, our board directed our management and its
advisors to negotiate the terms of a transaction with FNB and to
present the terms of a transaction to our board.
From April 11, 2005 until April 21, 2005, numerous
telephonic and in-person conferences were held between North
East and FNB and their respective advisors and representatives
regarding a proposed transaction. The parties exchanged drafts
of a merger agreement and related agreements, and the parties
had numerous discussions regarding the transaction. During this
time, FNB continued its due diligence review of us and we
conducted a due diligence review of FNB.
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On April 21, 2005, our board along with the North East Bank
board met again to review the results of the transaction. At
this meeting, the board, Boenning and outside legal counsel
reviewed the merger agreement and discussed in detail the
mechanics of the agreement and the underlying transaction. After
deliberating, our board unanimously approved the merger
agreement and related matters, the North East Bank board
unanimously approved the merger of North East Bank into FNB Bank
and our board authorized Mr. Hartman to execute the
documents. On April 22, 2005 the merger agreement and
related documents were executed by the parties.
FNBs Reasons for the Merger
FNB is committed to pursuing several key strategies, one being
the realization of modest organic growth and the supplementation
of that growth through strategic acquisitions.
In approving the merger agreement, FNBs board of directors
considered the following factors as generally supporting its
decision to enter into the merger agreement:
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its understanding of FNBs business, operations, financial
condition, earnings and prospects and of North Easts
business, operations, financial condition, earnings and
prospects, including our geographic position in the Erie,
Pennsylvania region; |
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its understanding of the current and prospective environment in
which FNB and North East operate, including regional and local
economic conditions, the competitive environment for financial
institutions generally and continuing consolidation in the
financial services industry, and the likely effect of these
factors on FNB in light of, and in absence of, the proposed
merger; |
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the fact that focus of FNBs planned expansion strategy is
on strategic acquisitions; |
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the fact that the merger will provide FNB Bank with additional
branches in Erie; |
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review with its legal advisors of the structure and terms of the
merger; |
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the fact that the complementary nature of the respective
customer bases, business products and skills of FNB and North
East could result in opportunities to obtain synergies as
products are cross-marketed and distributed over broader
customer bases and best practices are compared and applied
across businesses; and |
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the likelihood that the regulatory approvals needed to complete
the transaction will be obtained. |
The FNB board of directors also considered that the future
growth prospects of the North East Bank market area could
provide sustained business development opportunities by enabling
FNB to compete more effectively in the greater Erie market.
The FNB board of directors considered all of these factors as a
whole and, on balance, concluded that they supported a favorable
determination to enter into the merger agreement.
Our Board of Directors Reasons for the Merger;
Recommendation
Our board of directors has unanimously approved the merger
agreement and unanimously recommends that our shareholders vote
FOR approval and adoption of the merger agreement.
Our board of directors has determined that the merger is fair
to, and in the best interests of, us and our shareholders. In
approving the merger agreement, our board of directors consulted
with Boenning with respect to certain financial aspects of the
merger and the fairness of the exchange ratio to be received by
our shareholders from a financial point of view and with counsel
as to our legal duties and the terms of the merger agreement and
ancillary documents. In arriving at its determination, our board
also considered the following material factors:
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Our board of directors familiarity with and review of
information concerning our business, results of operations,
financial condition, competitive position and future prospects; |
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The current and prospective environment in which we operate,
including national, regional and local economic conditions, the
competitive environment for banks and other financial
institutions generally, the increased regulatory burdens on
financial institutions and the trend toward consolidation in the
banking and financial services industries; |
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The financial presentation of Boenning and the opinion of
Boenning that, as of April 15, 2005, the merger
consideration was fair, from a financial point of view, to our
shareholders (see Opinion of Our Financial
Advisor, beginning on Page 29); |
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Losses recently encountered by North East Bank; |
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The results that might be obtained by us if we continued to
operate independently and the likely benefits to our
shareholders of such a course, compared with the value of the
exchange ratio offered by FNB; |
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The financial attributes of our and FNBs common stock,
dividend yield, liquidity and corporate fundamentals; |
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The financial terms of the proposed merger. Our shareholders
would receive shares of FNB common stock in exchange for shares
of our common stock they had held according to the Exchange
Ratio, subject to adjustment for antidilution. Our board of
directors considered the presentation of Boenning at its
April 21, 2005 meeting concerning the financial terms of
the proposed merger. Among other comparisons and financial
reports, Boenning presented an analysis of comparable companies,
an analysis of discounted dividends, an analysis of comparable
transactions and a hurdle rate analysis. (See
Opinion of Our Financial Advisor,
beginning on Page 29); |
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In comparison to FNBs history of paying cash dividends on
its common stock, our board of directors considered whether we,
as an independent enterprise, could produce the earnings
necessary to result in a value comparable to the value to be
received in the merger; |
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FNB trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol
FNB. Our board of directors found the enhanced
liquidity associated with FNBs common stock, compared with
the more limited trading market of our common stock, to be a
favorable factor in its analysis; |
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Our favorable opinion of the experience and expertise of the FNB
management team; |
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The expected qualification of the merger as a reorganization
under Section 368 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as
amended, referred to as the Code; |
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Our board of directors and our management performed an extensive
review of FNB. As a part of our due diligence review, we
reviewed FNBs business, operations, financial conditions,
earnings and prospects. These factors were found to be
favorable. Our board of directors emphasized FNBs most
recent operating history and performance; |
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Our current condition and historical operating results; |
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Our concerns in meeting the capital requirements imposed by our
amended formal written agreement with the OCC; |
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The effects of the merger on our depositors and customers and
the communities served by us, which was deemed to be favorable
given that they would be served by an organization with greater
resources than we have; and |
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The future business prospects of FNB. |
This discussion of the factors considered by our board of
directors is not exhaustive, but includes all material factors
considered by our board of directors. In approving the merger
agreement, our board of directors did not quantify or assign any
specific or relative weight to the various factors considered.
Rather, our board of directors based its recommendation on the
totality of information presented to it. Individual directors
may have weighted factors differently. All of the material
factors concerning the proposed merger considered
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by our board of directors supported our board of directors
decision to recommend the merger to our shareholders. Our board
of directors is not aware of any factor that failed to support
its determination. From the viewpoint of our board of directors,
the merger represents an attractive opportunity to maximize
shareholder value, provide liquidity to our shareholders and to
join with a company that has sound business prospects.
Opinion of Our Financial Advisor
Pursuant to an engagement letter dated as of January 12,
2005, North East retained Boenning to act as its exclusive
financial advisor in connection with North Easts
consideration of a possible business combination involving North
East. In connection with a possible merger combination, the
North East board requested Boenning to render its opinion as to
the fairness of the merger consideration to the holders of North
East common stock from a financial point of view. At the
April 21, 2005 meeting at which North Easts board
considered the merger agreement, Boenning rendered its opinion
to the board that, based upon and subject to the various
considerations set forth therein, as of April 15, 2005, the
merger consideration was fair to the holders of North East
common stock from a financial point of view. We refer in this
proxy statement/prospectus to the opinion as presented on
April 21, 2005 as the April Opinion and the
opinion as of August 12, 2005 as the Proxy
Opinion.
The full text of Boennings Proxy Opinion, which sets forth
the assumptions made, matters considered and limitations of the
review undertaken, is included as Appendix B to this proxy
statement/prospectus, is incorporated herein by reference, and
should be read in its entirety in connection with this proxy
statement/prospectus. The summary of the Proxy Opinion of
Boenning set forth below is qualified in its entirety by
reference to the full text of the Proxy Opinion included as
Appendix B to this proxy statement/prospectus.
Boenning was selected to act as North Easts financial
advisor in connection with a possible business combination
involving North East based upon its qualifications, expertise,
reputation and experience. Boenning has knowledge of, and
experience with the Pennsylvania and surrounding banking
markets, as well as banking organizations operating in those
markets, and was selected by North East because of its knowledge
of, experience with, and reputation in the financial services
industry. Boenning, as part of its investment banking business,
is engaged regularly in the valuation of assets, securities and
companies in connection with various types of asset and
securities transactions, including mergers, acquisitions, public
offerings, private placements and valuations for various other
purposes and in the determination of adequate consideration in
such transactions. In the ordinary course of its business as a
broker-dealer, Boenning may, from time to time, purchase
securities from, and sell securities to, North East and FNB. In
the ordinary course of business, Boenning may actively trade the
securities of North East and FNB for its own account and for the
accounts of customers and accordingly may at any time hold a
long or short position in such securities.
On April 21, 2005, North Easts board of directors
approved and executed the merger agreement. Prior to the
approval, Boenning delivered its April Opinion to North
Easts board stating that, as of April 15, 2005, the
merger consideration pursuant to the merger agreement was fair
to the shareholders of North East from a financial point of
view. Boenning reached the same opinion as of the date of its
Proxy Opinion. The full text of the Proxy Opinion which sets
forth assumptions made, matters considered and limits on the
review undertaken is included as Appendix B to this proxy
statement/prospectus.
No limitations were imposed by North Easts board of
directors upon Boenning with respect to the investigations made
or procedures followed by Boenning in rendering the April
Opinion or the Proxy Opinion.
In arriving at its opinion, Boenning, among other things:
|
|
|
|
|
reviewed the historical financial performance, current financial
position and general prospects of North East and F.N.B. and
reviewed certain internal financial analyses and forecasts
prepared by management of North East; |
|
|
|
reviewed the merger agreement; |
|
|
|
reviewed and analyzed the stock market performance of North East
and FNB.; |
29
|
|
|
|
|
studied and analyzed the consolidated financial and operating
data of North East and FNB; |
|
|
|
considered the terms and conditions of the merger between North
East and FNB compared with the terms and conditions of bank,
bank holding company and financial holding company mergers and
acquisitions that Boenning deemed comparable; |
|
|
|
met and/or communicated with certain members of North
Easts and FNBs senior management to discuss their
respective operations, historical financial statements and
future prospects; |
|
|
|
reviewed a draft of this proxy statement/prospectus in the case
of the Proxy Opinion; |
|
|
|
compared the financial performance of North East and FNB and the
prices and trading activity of the stocks of North East and FNB
with those of certain other publicly-traded banks, bank holding
companies and financial holding companies and their securities
that Boenning deemed comparable; |
|
|
|
discussed the strategic objectives of the merger and the plans
for the combined company with senior executives of North East
and FNB, including estimates of the cost savings and other
synergies projected by North East for the combined company; |
|
|
|
participated in discussions and negotiations among
representatives of North East and FNB and their
advisors; and |
|
|
|
conducted such other financial analyses, studies and
investigations as it deemed appropriate. |
In connection with rendering its April Opinion and the Proxy
Opinion, Boenning assumed that in the course of obtaining the
necessary regulatory and governmental approvals for the merger,
no restriction will be imposed on FNB or North East that would
have a material adverse effect on the contemplated benefits of
the merger. Boenning also assumed that there will not occur any
change in applicable law or regulation that would cause a
material adverse change in the prospects or operations of FNB
after the merger.
Boenning relied, without independent verification, upon the
accuracy and completeness of all of the financial and other
information reviewed by and discussed with it for purposes of
its opinions. With respect to North Easts and FNBs
financial forecasts and other information reviewed by Boenning
in rendering its opinions, Boenning assumed that such
information was reasonably prepared on bases reflecting the best
currently available estimates and judgments of the management of
North East and FNB as to their most likely future performance
and the cost savings and other potential synergies (including
the amount, timing and achievability thereof) anticipated to
result from the merger. Boenning did not make an independent
evaluation or appraisal of the assets (including loans) or
liabilities of North East or FNB nor was it furnished with any
such appraisal. Boenning also did not independently verify, and
has relied on and assumed, that all allowances for loan and
lease losses set forth in the balance sheets of North East and
FNB were adequate and complied fully with applicable law,
regulatory policy and sound banking practice as of the date of
such financial statements. In addition, Boenning did not review
credit files of either North East or FNB.
The following is a summary of the material analyses prepared by
Boenning and presented to North Easts board in connection
with the April Opinion and analyzed by Boenning in connection
with the April Opinion and the Proxy Opinion. In connection with
delivering its Proxy Opinion, Boenning updated certain analyses
described below to reflect current market conditions and events
occurring since the date of the April Opinion. The reviews and
updates led Boenning to conclude that it was not necessary to
change the conclusions it had reached in connection with
rendering the April Opinion. In addition, none of the analyses
prepared by Boenning in connection with the issuance of the
April Opinion or the Proxy Opinion failed to support
Boennings conclusion that the merger consideration was
fair to the holders of North East common stock from a financial
point of view.
Summary of Transaction. Boenning calculated the implied
pricing and valuation multiples based upon the fixed offer price
of $107.00 in stock. Per the terms of the merger agreement, each
share of North East common stock will automatically be converted
into the right to receive that number of shares of FNB common
stock as is determined by dividing $107 by the average closing
price of FNBs common stock on the New York Stock Exchange
for the 20 consecutive trading days ending on the fifth trading
day prior to consummation of
30
the merger. If the average closing price of FNB common stock as
so determined is less than $18.00 per share, FNB will have
the option, in its sole discretion to pay the merger
consideration with a combination of cash, but not in excess of
$53.00 per each North East share in cash, and FNB common
stock so that the total merger consideration per North East
share equals $107.
Based on North Easts net loss for twelve months ended
December 31, 2004 of $1.020 million, common
shareholders equity of $6.823 million, common
shareholders tangible equity of $6.823 million, and
price per common share of $52.00 (the last reported per common
share price of North East as of April 15, 2005), the key
valuation statistics were as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
Aggregate Consideration
|
|
$ |
15.5 million |
|
Consideration Per Common Share
|
|
$ |
107.00 |
|
Aggregate Consideration/Last Twelve Months Reported Net Income
|
|
|
NM |
|
Aggregate Consideration/Common Shareholders Equity
|
|
|
227.6 |
% |
Aggregate Consideration/Tangible Common Shareholders Equity
|
|
|
227.6 |
% |
Consideration Per Common Share/Market Price Per Common Share at
Announcement
|
|
|
105.8 |
% |
Comparable Companies Analysis. Boenning compared selected
publicly available financial, operating and stock market data
for North East with those of a peer group in order to compare
North Easts historical financial and operating performance
with the peers and examine the merger consideration offered by
FNB relative to the market valuations of the peers. The
financial and operating data is as of December 31, 2004,
except where noted, and the stock market data is as of
April 15, 2005. The peers consisted of SEC-reporting banks,
bank holding companies and financial holding companies
headquartered in Western New York, Eastern Ohio, and Western
Pennsylvania that had assets between $50 million and
$100 million as of December 31, 2004, except where
noted. The companies in the peer group were:
|
|
|
|
|
GNB Financial Services Inc., Gratz, PA (1); |
|
|
|
First National Bank of Groton, Groton, NY (1); |
|
|
|
Exchange Bancshares, Inc., Luckey, OH (1); |
|
|
|
Northern New York Bancorp, Inc., Watertown, NY (2); |
|
|
|
First National Bank of Port Allegany, Port Allegany, PA (2); |
|
|
|
Tri-State 1st Banc, Inc., East Liverpool, OH (1); |
|
|
|
FNBM Financial Corporation, Minersville, PA (2); |
|
|
|
First National Bank of Wellston, Wellston, OH (1); |
|
|
|
BNB Bancorp Incorporated, Brookville, OH (2); |
|
|
|
F&M Bancorp, Miamisburg, OH (1); |
|
|
|
Community First Bancorp, Incorporated, Reynoldsville, PA (2); |
|
|
|
Vernon Bank Corporation, Vernon, NY (2); |
|
|
|
Halifax National Bank, Halifax, PA (1); |
|
|
|
Canton Bancorp, Inc., Canton, PA (2); and |
|
|
|
Citizens National Bank of Meyersdale, Meyersdale, PA (1); |
|
|
(1) |
Most recent publicly available information as of
December 31, 2004. |
|
(2) |
Most recent publicly available information as of
September 30, 2004. |
31
The results of these comparisons, based on December 31,
2004 financial information, except where noted, and stock price
data as of April 15, 2005, are set forth in the following
table.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
North East | |
|
Peer Median | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
|
($ in millions) | |
Total Assets
|
|
$ |
68 |
.7 |
|
$ |
84 |
.0 |
Common Equity Capital/Assets
|
|
|
9 |
.9% |
|
|
11 |
.8% |
Loans/Deposits
|
|
|
84 |
.6% |
|
|
61 |
.8% |
Nonperforming Assets(1)/Assets
|
|
|
4 |
.86% |
|
|
0 |
.52% |
Return on Average Assets
|
|
|
(0 |
.95)% |
|
|
0 |
.76% |
Return on Average Common Equity
|
|
|
(9 |
.05)% |
|
|
6 |
.37% |
Non-Interest Income/Average Assets
|
|
|
0 |
.86% |
|
|
0 |
.58% |
Non-Interest Expense/Average Assets
|
|
|
4 |
.93% |
|
|
2 |
.90% |
Efficiency Ratio(2)
|
|
|
102 |
.8% |
|
|
70 |
.5% |
Net Interest Margin
|
|
|
4 |
.30% |
|
|
3 |
.86% |
Four Year Average Results:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Return on Average Assets
|
|
|
(0 |
.05)% |
|
|
0 |
.75% |
Return on Average Common Equity
|
|
|
(0 |
.35)% |
|
|
6 |
.33% |
Efficiency Ratio(2)
|
|
|
87 |
.8% |
|
|
72 |
.6% |
Net Interest Margin
|
|
|
4 |
.56% |
|
|
4 |
.02% |
Compound Annual Growth Rate(3)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Assets
|
|
|
(6 |
.2)% |
|
|
5 |
.7% |
|
Loans
|
|
|
(1 |
.5)% |
|
|
1 |
.4% |
|
Deposits
|
|
|
(6 |
.2)% |
|
|
5 |
.8% |
Common Equity Market Capitalization
|
|
$ |
7 |
.5 |
|
$ |
8 |
.9 |
Price/52 Week High Price
|
|
|
98 |
.1% |
|
|
100 |
.00% |
Price to:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Book Value Per Common Share
|
|
|
110 |
.6% |
|
|
111 |
.4% |
|
Tangible Book Value Per Common Share
|
|
|
110 |
.6% |
|
|
111 |
.4% |
|
LTM(4) Earnings Per Common Share
|
|
|
NA |
|
|
|
18 |
.5x |
|
LTM(4)(5) Dividend Payout Ratio
|
|
|
NA |
|
|
|
34 |
.2% |
Avg. Weekly Volume/Common Shares Outstanding
|
|
|
NA |
|
|
|
0 |
.03% |
|
|
(1) |
Defined as total nonaccrual loans plus other real estate owned
plus accruing loans that are 90 days past due. |
|
(2) |
Defined as non-interest expense less intangible amortization
divided by the sum of net interest income plus non-interest
income. |
|
(3) |
Reflects that compound annual growth rate from fiscal year 2000
to December 31, 2004, except where noted. |
|
(4) |
LTM stands for the latest twelve months. |
Boenning also compared selected publicly available financial,
operating and stock market data for FNB with those of a peer
group of SEC-reporting banks, bank holding companies and
financial holding companies headquartered in
Washington, D.C., Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, New York
and Pennsylvania that had assets between $2.75 billion and
$10 billion as of December 31, 2004. This analysis was
performed in order to compare FNBs historical financial
and operating performance with comparable institutions and to
examine its
32
market valuation relative to its peer group. The financial and
operating data is as of December 31, 2004, except where
noted, and the stock price data is as of April 15, 2005.
The companies in the peer group were:
|
|
|
|
|
Wilmington Trust Corporation, Wilmington, DE (1); |
|
|
|
Hudson United Bancorp, Mahwah, NJ (1); |
|
|
|
Susquehanna Bancshares, Inc., Lititz, PA (1); |
|
|
|
Provident Bankshares Corporation, Baltimore, MD (1); |
|
|
|
First Commonwealth Financial Corporation, Indiana, PA (1): |
|
|
|
Riggs National Corporation, Washington, D.C. (1); |
|
|
|
National Penn Bancshares, Inc., Boyertown, PA (1); |
|
|
|
Community Bank System, Inc., DeWitt, NY (1); |
|
|
|
NBT Bancorp Inc., Norwich, NY (1); |
|
|
|
Signature Bank, New York, NY (1); |
|
|
|
Sun Bancorp, Inc., Vineland, NJ (2); |
|
|
|
Harleysville National Corporation, Harleysville, PA (1); |
|
|
|
S&T Bancorp, Inc., Indiana, PA (1); and |
|
|
|
Yardville National Bancorp, Hamilton, NJ (1); |
|
|
(1) |
Most recent publicly available information as of
December 31, 2004. |
|
(2) |
Most recent publicly available information as of
September 30, 2004. |
The results of these comparisons, based on December 31,
2004 financial information, except where noted, and stock price
data as of April 15, 2005 are set forth in the following
table.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
FNB | |
|
Peer Median | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
|
($ In millions) | |
Total Assets
|
|
$ |
5,027.0 |
|
|
$ |
4,436.3 |
|
Common Equity Capital/ Assets
|
|
|
6.5 |
% |
|
|
9.3 |
% |
Loans/ Deposits
|
|
|
94.2 |
% |
|
|
91.3 |
% |
Nonperforming Assets(1)/ Assets
|
|
|
0.86 |
% |
|
|
0.38 |
% |
Return on Average Assets
|
|
|
1.29 |
% |
|
|
1.18 |
% |
Return on Average Common Equity
|
|
|
23.53 |
% |
|
|
12.06 |
% |
Non-Interest Income/ Average Assets
|
|
|
1.46 |
% |
|
|
1.03 |
% |
Non-Interest Expense/ Average Assets
|
|
|
2.95 |
% |
|
|
2.81 |
% |
Efficiency Ratio(2)
|
|
|
57.2 |
% |
|
|
58.2 |
% |
Net Interest Margin
|
|
|
3.94 |
% |
|
|
3.59 |
% |
33
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
FNB | |
|
Peer Median | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
|
($ In millions) | |
Four Year Average Results:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Return on Average Assets
|
|
|
1.02 |
% |
|
|
1.00 |
% |
Return on Average Common Equity
|
|
|
15.55 |
% |
|
|
11.89 |
% |
Efficiency Ratio(2)
|
|
|
59.7 |
% |
|
|
56.8 |
% |
Net Interest Margin
|
|
|
4.41 |
% |
|
|
3.79 |
% |
Compound Annual Growth Rate(3)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Assets
|
|
|
5.9 |
% |
|
|
9.1 |
% |
|
Loans
|
|
|
3.0 |
% |
|
|
9.3 |
% |
|
Deposits
|
|
|
2.8 |
% |
|
|
9.3 |
% |
Common Equity Market Capitalization
|
|
$ |
1,038.9 |
|
|
$ |
777.4 |
|
Price/52 Week High Price
|
|
|
80.6 |
% |
|
|
80.9 |
% |
Price to:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Book Value Per Common Share
|
|
|
285.3 |
% |
|
|
194.6 |
% |
|
Tangible Book Value Per Common Share
|
|
|
418.0 |
% |
|
|
246.6 |
% |
|
LTM(4) Earnings Per Common Share
|
|
|
14.3 |
x |
|
|
16.0x |
|
|
Next Fiscal Year I/B/E/S Est. Earnings Per Share
|
|
|
14.7 |
x |
|
|
14.2x |
|
|
Following Fiscal Year I/B/E/S Est. Earnings Per Share
|
|
|
13.7 |
x |
|
|
13.1x |
|
LTM(4) Dividend Payout Ratio
|
|
|
71.3 |
% |
|
|
50.9 |
% |
Avg. Weekly Volume/ Common Shares Outstanding
|
|
|
1.17 |
% |
|
|
1.06 |
% |
|
|
(1) |
Defined as total nonaccrual loans plus other real estate owned
plus accruing loans that are 90 days past due. |
|
(2) |
Defined as non-interest expense less intangible amortization
divided by the sum of net interest income plus non-interest
income. |
|
(3) |
Reflects that compound annual growth rate from fiscal year 2000
to December 31, 2004, except where noted. |
|
(4) |
LTM stands for latest twelve months. |
No company, however, used in this analysis is identical to North
East, FNB or the merger. Accordingly, an analysis of the result
of the foregoing is not mathematical; rather, it involves
complex considerations and judgments concerning differences in
financial and operating characteristics of the companies and
other factors that would affect the public trading values of the
companies or company to which they are being compared.
Discounted Dividend Analysis. Using a discounted dividend
analysis, Boenning estimated the present value of the future
cash flows that would accrue to a holder of a share of North
East common stock over a five-year period. This analysis was
performed in order to compare the merger consideration offered
by FNB to a range of estimated implied values for North East
common stock based on projected future cash flows. This
stand-alone analysis was based on several assumptions, including
a range of price to earnings multiples of 16.5x to 20.5x to
North Easts terminal year common earnings per share, a
range of earnings per share growth rates based upon North East
managements five-year projected earnings per share growth
rate of 5%, and North Easts projected cash dividend payout
ratio of 20% beginning in Year 3 or 2007. The range of multiples
applied to North Easts estimated five-year earnings per
share value reflected a variety of scenarios regarding the
growth and profitability prospects of North East and valuation
for banking securities in general. The terminal values and
projected annual cash dividends were then discounted to present
value using a discount rate of 6.3% based on North Easts
median peer groups four-year average return on common
equity from the Comparable Companies Analysis. This discount
rate was used in order to reflect an expected rate of return
required by holders or prospective buyers of North Easts
common stock. The analysis indicated that, based upon the
aforementioned assumptions, the present value of North
Easts common stock, on a stand-alone
34
basis, ranged from $45.34 $81.66 per common
share with a median value of $61.45. The table below summarizes
the results under different assumption scenarios.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Terminal Multiple | |
|
|
| |
|
|
16.5x | |
|
17.5x | |
|
18.5x | |
|
19.5x | |
|
20.5x | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
EPS Growth Rate(%)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.0
|
|
$ |
45.34 |
|
|
$ |
47.99 |
|
|
$ |
50.64 |
|
|
$ |
53.28 |
|
|
$ |
55.93 |
|
2.5
|
|
|
50.00 |
|
|
|
52.93 |
|
|
|
55.85 |
|
|
|
58.77 |
|
|
|
61.69 |
|
5.0
|
|
|
55.02 |
|
|
|
58.23 |
|
|
|
61.45 |
|
|
|
64.66 |
|
|
|
67.88 |
|
7.5
|
|
|
60.40 |
|
|
|
63.93 |
|
|
|
67.46 |
|
|
|
71.00 |
|
|
|
74.53 |
|
10.0
|
|
|
66.16 |
|
|
|
70.04 |
|
|
|
73.91 |
|
|
|
77.78 |
|
|
|
81.66 |
|
In connection with the discounted dividend analysis performed,
Boenning considered and discussed with North Easts board
how the present value analysis would be affected by changes in
the underlying assumptions, including variations with respect to
the discount rate, net interest spread, non-interest income,
non-interest expenses and dividend payout ratio. Boenning noted
that the discounted dividend stream and terminal value analysis
is a widely used valuation methodology, but the assumptions that
must be made, and the results of this analysis, are not
necessarily indicative of actual values or future results.
Comparable Transactions Analysis. Boenning also compared
the per share values to North East common shareholders implied
by the exchange ratio offered by FNB of latest twelve
months earnings, book value, tangible book value, assets
and deposits with the price per common share implied by the
multiples paid in recent acquisitions of banks, bank holding
companies and financial holding companies that Boenning deemed
comparable. The transactions deemed comparable by Boenning
included both interstate and intrastate bank, bank holding
company and financial holding company acquisitions announced
after March 31, 2004, in which the selling
institutions assets were between $50 million and
$125 million as of the most recent period publicly
available prior to announcement. Boenning compared this
national group as a whole as well as certain of its
subgroups, including a regional group, a performance group, a
recent group and a market area group, with the merger. The
regional group included transactions involving
banks, bank holding companies and financial holding companies in
which the acquired company was located in the Mid-Atlantic
region and Ohio. The performance group included
transactions involving banks, bank holding companies and
financial holding companies that had a return on average common
equity less than 7% and an Non-Performing Assets to Assets ratio
greater than 1% at the time of announcement. The recent
group included transactions involving banks, bank holding
companies an financial holding companies announced after
January 1, 2005. The market area group included
transactions involving banks, bank holding companies and
financial holding
35
companies announced after January 1, 2004 with selling
institutions located in Pennsylvania regardless of asset size.
The results of these comparisons are set forth in the following
table.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Market | |
|
|
FNB/North | |
|
National | |
|
Regional | |
|
Performance | |
|
Recent | |
|
Area | |
|
|
East | |
|
Median | |
|
Median | |
|
Median | |
|
Median | |
|
Median | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
Number of Transactions
|
|
|
N/A |
|
|
|
59 |
|
|
|
6 |
|
|
|
7 |
|
|
|
14 |
|
|
|
7 |
|
Seller Information:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Assets (in millions)
|
|
$ |
68.7 |
|
|
$ |
80.9 |
|
|
$ |
59.9 |
|
|
$ |
73.6 |
|
|
$ |
75.1 |
|
|
$ |
532.3 |
|
Common Equity Capital/ Assets
|
|
|
9.9 |
% |
|
|
9.0 |
% |
|
|
10.7 |
% |
|
|
8.4 |
% |
|
|
9.2 |
% |
|
|
8.4 |
% |
LTM(1) Return on Average Assets
|
|
|
(0.95 |
)% |
|
|
0.72 |
% |
|
|
0.02 |
% |
|
|
(0.59 |
)% |
|
|
0.43 |
% |
|
|
0.78 |
% |
LTM(1) Return on Average Common Equity
|
|
|
(9.05 |
)% |
|
|
7.64 |
% |
|
|
0.25 |
% |
|
|
(6.93 |
)% |
|
|
4.66 |
% |
|
|
10.44 |
% |
NPAs(2)/ Assets
|
|
|
4.86 |
% |
|
|
0.37 |
% |
|
|
0.81 |
% |
|
|
1.99 |
% |
|
|
0.42 |
% |
|
|
0.67 |
% |
Implied Per Share Values:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Book Value
|
|
$ |
107.00 |
|
|
$ |
93.69 |
|
|
$ |
70.54 |
|
|
$ |
80.05 |
|
|
$ |
71.52 |
|
|
$ |
144.51 |
|
|
Tangible Book Value
|
|
|
107.00 |
|
|
|
96.32 |
|
|
|
71.00 |
|
|
|
86.62 |
|
|
|
74.08 |
|
|
|
168.69 |
|
|
LTM(1) Earnings
|
|
|
107.00 |
|
|
|
NM |
|
|
|
NM |
|
|
|
NM |
|
|
|
NM |
|
|
|
NM |
|
|
Deposits
|
|
|
107.00 |
|
|
|
90.62 |
|
|
|
66.57 |
|
|
|
65.67 |
|
|
|
71.68 |
|
|
|
147.97 |
|
|
Assets
|
|
|
107.00 |
|
|
|
91.69 |
|
|
|
67.03 |
|
|
|
67.49 |
|
|
|
67.03 |
|
|
|
116.8 |
|
|
|
(1) |
LTM stands for latest twelve months. |
|
(2) |
Defined as total nonaccrual loans and other real estate owned. |
No company or transaction, however, used in this analysis is
identical to North East, FNB or the merger. Accordingly, an
analysis of the result of the foregoing is not mathematical;
rather, it involves complex considerations and judgments
concerning differences in financial and operating
characteristics of the companies and other factors that would
affect the public trading values of the companies or company to
which they are being compared.
Pro Forma Relative Value Analysis. Boenning analyzed the
estimated changes in the amount of earnings, book value and cash
dividends represented by one share of North East common stock
prior to the merger with the value implied by the exchange ratio
offered by FNB. These analyses were conducted in order to
determine the estimated impact upon North East per common share
values implied by the exchange ratio offered by FNB. The
analysis assumes that FNB will issue 100% stock and indicated
the following information:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
North East on | |
|
Pro Forma | |
Common Share Values as of April 15, 2005 |
|
a Stand-Alone Basis | |
|
North East Equivalent | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
2005 Diluted Earnings
|
|
$ |
3.42 |
|
|
$ |
7.52 |
(1) |
Quarterly Cash Dividend Annualized
|
|
|
0.00 |
|
|
|
5.47 |
|
Book Value
|
|
|
47.00 |
|
|
|
39.60 |
(2) |
Tangible Book Value
|
|
|
47.00 |
|
|
|
26.53 |
(2) |
|
|
(1) |
Equivalent does not include any assumed synergies arising from
the consolidation or any purchase accounting adjustments. |
|
(2) |
Equivalents include certain purchase accounting adjustments. |
Hurdle Rate Analysis. Using a range of discount rates and
a range of terminal price to earnings per common share
multiples, Boenning estimated a range of compound annual
earnings per common share growth rates required over a five year
period for North East to obtain an implied per common share
stand alone
36
market price comparable to the value implied by the merger
consideration offered by FNB on a present value basis. This
analysis was performed in order to examine the required earnings
per common share growth rates that would be required to offer
shareholders similar value to that implied by the merger
consideration. Boenning calculated a range of future values of
the per common share implied value of the FNB transaction over a
five-year period based on a range of discount rates from 5% to
10%. The range of discount rates reflected the expected rate of
return required by holders or prospective buyers of North East
common stock. Using a range of price to earnings per common
share multiples of 16.0x to 21.0x to reflect the growth and
profitability prospects of North East as well as general market
valuations for comparable banking companies, Boenning calculated
North Easts potential earnings per common share at the end
of five years by dividing the price to common earnings per share
multiples into the range of future values. The annual growth
rate was calculated based on the potential earnings per common
share values at the end of five years and North Easts
projected fully diluted earnings per common share value of $3.42
for the year ended December 31, 2005. Boenning then
compared the resulting earnings growth rates with North
Easts historical and estimated future earnings per common
share growth rates.
In connection with the hurdle rate analysis performed, Boenning
considered and discussed with North Easts board how the
analysis would be affected by changes in the underlying
assumptions, including variations with respect to the range of
discount rates and price per common share earnings multiples
used. The table below summarizes the results under different
assumption scenarios.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Discount Rate | |
|
|
| |
Terminal Multiple |
|
5.0% | |
|
6.3% | |
|
10.0% | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
16.0x
|
|
|
20.5 |
% |
|
|
22.0 |
% |
|
|
26.1 |
% |
17.0x
|
|
|
19.1 |
|
|
|
20.5 |
|
|
|
24.6 |
|
18.5x
|
|
|
17.1 |
|
|
|
18.5 |
|
|
|
22.5 |
|
20.0x
|
|
|
15.2 |
|
|
|
16.6 |
|
|
|
20.6 |
|
21.0x
|
|
|
14.1 |
|
|
|
15.5 |
|
|
|
19.5 |
|
In connection with rendering its April Opinion and the Proxy
Opinion, Boenning performed what it deemed were the material
financial analyses. Although the evaluation of the fairness,
from a financial point of view, of the merger consideration in
the merger was to some extent a subjective one based on the
experience and judgment of Boenning and not merely the result of
mathematical analysis of financial data, Boenning principally
relied on the previously discussed financial valuation
methodologies in its determinations. Boenning believes its
analyses must be considered as a whole and that selecting
portions of such analyses and factors considered by Boenning
without considering all such analyses and factors could create
an incomplete view of the process underlying Boennings
opinion. In its analyses, Boenning made numerous assumptions
with respect to business, market, monetary and economic
conditions, industry performance and other matters, many of
which are beyond North East and FNBs control. Any
estimates contained in Boennings analyses are not
necessarily indicative of future results or values, which may be
significantly more or less favorable than such estimates.
In reaching its opinion as to fairness, none of the analyses or
factors considered by Boenning was assigned any particular
weighting by Boenning. As a result of its consideration of the
aggregate of all factors present and analyses performed,
Boenning reached the conclusion, and opined, that the merger
consideration pursuant to the merger agreement was fair to the
shareholders of North East from a financial point of view.
Boennings Proxy Opinion was based solely upon the
information available to it and the economic, market and other
circumstances as they existed as of the date its Proxy Opinion
was delivered; events occurring after the date of its Proxy
Opinion could materially affect the assumptions used in
preparing its Proxy Opinion. Boenning has not undertaken to
reaffirm and revise its Proxy Opinion or otherwise comment upon
any events occurring after the date of the Proxy Opinion.
The full text of the Boenning Proxy Opinion, which sets forth
assumptions made and matters considered, is included as
Appendix B to this proxy statement/prospectus. North
Easts shareholders are urged to read the Proxy Opinion in
its entirety. Boennings Proxy Opinion is directed only to
the merger consideration pursuant
37
to the merger agreement from a financial point of view, is for
the information of the board of directors of North East and does
not address any other aspect of the merger nor does it
constitute a recommendation to any holder of North East common
stock as to how such holder should vote at the North East
special meeting.
The foregoing provides only a summary of the analyses performed
in the Proxy Opinion of Boenning and is qualified in its
entirety by reference to the full text of that opinion, which is
set forth in Appendix B to this proxy statement/prospectus.
Compensation of Boenning
North East and Boenning entered into an agreement relating to
the services to be provided by Boenning in connection with the
merger. North East agreed to pay Boenning a cash fee of $10,000
(Retainer) upon execution of the engagement
agreement. In addition, concurrently with the execution of a
definitive agreement, North East agreed to pay Boenning a cash
fee equal to 1.5% of the market value of the aggregate
consideration offered in exchange for the outstanding shares of
North East common stock in the merger less the amount of the
Retainer with $50,000 of such fee payable upon the issuance of
Boennings fairness opinion and the balance payable at the
time of the closing of the merger. Based on the merger
consideration payable in the merger and the number of shares of
North East common stock and common stock equivalents outstanding
on the record date for the special meeting, the balance of this
fee will amount to approximately $233,000. Pursuant to the
Boenning engagement agreement, North East also agreed to
reimburse Boenning for reasonable out-of-pocket expenses
incurred in connection with its retention and to indemnify it
against certain liabilities.
Structure of the Merger and the Merger
Consideration
Structure. Subject to the terms and conditions of the
merger agreement, and in accordance with Pennsylvania and
Florida law, at the completion of the merger, we will merge with
and into FNB. FNB will be the surviving corporation and will
continue its corporate existence under the laws of the State of
Florida. Immediately thereafter, North East Bank, our wholly
owned subsidiary, will merge with and into FNB Bank, a wholly
owned subsidiary of FNB. Shares of our common stock issued and
outstanding at the effective time of the merger will be
converted into shares of FNB common stock, except as otherwise
provided below.
When the merger is completed, our separate corporate existence
will terminate. FNBs Articles of Incorporation will be the
Articles of Incorporation of the combined company, and
FNBs By-laws will be the By-laws of the combined company.
See Comparison of Shareholder Rights beginning on
Page 65.
The board of directors of FNB will continue as the board of
directors of the combined company. The board of directors of FNB
Bank will continue as the board of directors of the combined
bank.
Merger Consideration. The merger agreement provides that
each share of our common stock issued and outstanding
immediately prior to the effective time of the merger, other
than treasury shares and shares as to which appraisal rights are
perfected, will be converted as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
if the average closing price of FNB common stock is $18.00 or
higher, that number of shares of FNB common stock as is
determined by dividing $107.00 by the average closing price of
FNB common stock on the New York Stock Exchange for the 20
consecutive trading days ending on the fifth trading day prior
to consummation of the merger; or |
|
|
|
if the average closing price of FNB common stock is less than
$18.00, as determined using the formula set forth above at the
discretion of FNB, either: |
|
|
|
|
|
that number of shares of FNB common stock as is determined by
dividing $107.00 by the average closing price computed as
provided above; or |
|
|
|
a combination of cash, but not more than $53.00 per North
East share, and that number of shares of FNB common stock as is
determined by dividing $107.00, less the cash paid per North
East share, by the average closing price of FNB common stock
computed as provided above. |
38
Fractional Shares. No fractional shares of FNB common
stock will be issued to you upon completion of the merger. For
each fractional share that you would otherwise be entitled to
receive, FNB will pay cash in an amount, rounded to the nearest
cent, equal to the product of (a) the average closing price
of FNB common stock on the effective date by (b) the
fraction calculated to the nearest ten thousandth of a share the
holder would otherwise receive. No interest will be paid or
accrued on cash payable in lieu of fractional shares of FNB
common stock.
Treasury Shares. Upon consummation of the merger, any
shares of our common stock held by us or North East Bank or by
FNB or any of its subsidiaries, other than in a fiduciary
capacity or as a result of debts previously contracted in good
faith, will be cancelled and retired and no merger consideration
will be paid with respect to these shares.
Procedures for the Exchange of Shares of Our Common
Stock
Exchange Fund. Not later than three days prior to the
effective time of the merger, FNB will deposit with the exchange
agent certificates representing the shares of FNB common stock
to be exchanged for shares of our common stock.
After the effective time of the merger, each holder of a North
East stock certificate, who has surrendered such certificate, or
customary affidavits and indemnification regarding the loss or
destruction of such certificate, together with duly executed
transmittal materials to the exchange agent, will be entitled to
receive a certificate representing the number of whole shares of
FNB common stock to which such holder would be entitled to
receive under the merger agreement or, at the discretion of FNB
if the average closing price of FNB common stock on the New York
Stock Exchange for the 20 consecutive trading days ending on the
fifth trading day prior to the consummation of the merger is
less than $18.00 per share, a combination of cash and
shares of FNB common stock. Fractional shares will be treated as
provided under The Merger Structure of the
Merger and the Merger Consideration Fractional
Shares on Page 38.
Holders of our common stock should not submit their North East
stock certificates for exchange until they receive the
transmittal instructions from the exchange agent.
If your North East stock certificate has been lost, stolen or
destroyed, you may receive shares of FNB common stock if you
make an affidavit of that fact. FNB may require that you post a
bond in a reasonable amount as an indemnity against any claim
that may be made against FNB with respect to the lost, stolen or
destroyed North East stock certificate.
Until you exchange your North East stock certificates, you will
not receive any dividends or distributions with respect to any
shares of FNB common stock you are entitled to receive in
connection with the merger. Once you exchange your North East
stock certificates for FNB stock certificates, you will receive,
without interest, any dividends or distributions with a record
date after the effective time of the merger and payable with
respect to your shares of FNB common stock.
After completion of the merger, no transfers of our common stock
issued and outstanding immediately prior to the completion of
the merger will be allowed, except as required to settle trades
executed prior to the completion of the merger. If certificates
representing shares of our common stock are presented for
transfer after the completion of the merger, they will be
cancelled and exchanged for the merger consideration into which
such shares represented by that certificate have been converted.
The exchange agent will establish a book entry account, issue a
FNB stock certificate, or, in the case of partial cash
consideration or cash payments in lieu of fractional shares, a
check representing cash, in a name other than the name in which
a surrendered North East stock certificate is registered only if
the surrendered North East stock certificate is properly
endorsed and otherwise in proper form for transfer and the
person requesting such exchange either affixes any requisite
stock transfer tax stamps to the surrendered certificate,
provides funds for their purchase or establishes to the
satisfaction of the exchange agent that such transfer taxes are
not payable.
39
Our stock certificates may be exchanged for FNB stock
certificates with the exchange agent for up to nine months after
the completion of the merger. At the end of that period, the
exchange agent will return any remaining FNB stock certificates
to FNB. Any holders of our stock certificates who have not
exchanged their certificates will thereafter be entitled to look
only to FNB to receive FNB common stock in exchange for their
North East common stock.
FNB or the exchange agent may be entitled to deduct and withhold
from any amounts payable to any holder of shares of our common
stock such backup withholding as is required under the Code or
any state, local or foreign tax law or regulation. Any amounts
that are withheld will be treated as having been paid to the
holder of our common stock.
Neither we nor FNB will be liable to any former holder of our
common stock for any shares of FNB common stock that are
delivered to a public official pursuant to any applicable
abandoned property, escheat or similar laws.
Resale of FNB Common Stock
The shares of FNB common stock to be issued pursuant to the
merger will be registered under the Securities Act, and will be
freely transferable, except for shares issued to any North East
shareholder who may be deemed to be either an affiliate of
(i) FNB, at or after the effective time of the merger, for
purposes of Rule 144 promulgated under the Securities Act
or (ii) North East, at the time of our special meeting, for
purposes of Rule 145 promulgated under the Securities Act.
Affiliates include persons who control, are controlled by or are
under common control with North East or FNB, as the case may be,
and generally consist of executive officers, directors and 10%
or greater shareholders.
Rule 145 will restrict the sale of FNB common stock
received in the merger by affiliates of North East and certain
of their family members and related interests. Generally
speaking, during the year following the effective time of the
merger, those persons who are affiliates of North East at the
time of our special meeting, provided they are not affiliates of
FNB at or following the effective time of the merger, may
publicly resell any FNB common stock received by them in the
merger, subject to certain limitations as to, among other
things, the amount of FNB common stock sold by them in any
three-month period and the manner of sale. After the one-year
period, such affiliates may resell their shares without such
restrictions so long as there is adequate current public
information available with respect to FNB as required by
Rule 144.
Persons who are affiliates of FNB after the effective time of
the merger may publicly resell the shares of FNB common stock
received by them in the merger subject to similar limitations
and subject to certain filing requirements specified in
Rule 144 and in a manner consistent with FNBs insider
trading policy.
The ability of affiliates to resell shares of FNB common stock
received in the merger under Rules 144 or 145 as summarized
above generally will be subject to FNB having satisfied its
reporting requirements under the Securities Exchange Act of
1934, which we sometimes refer to as the Exchange
Act in this proxy statement/ prospectus, for specified
periods prior to the time of sale. Affiliates also would be
permitted to resell FNB common stock received in the merger
pursuant to an effective registration statement under the
Securities Act or another available exemption from the
registration requirements of the Securities Act. Neither the
registration statement of which this proxy statement/ prospectus
is a part nor this proxy statement/ prospectus cover any resales
of FNB common stock received by persons who may be deemed to be
affiliates of FNB or North East in the merger.
We have agreed in the merger agreement to use our reasonable
best efforts to identify each person who may be deemed to be our
affiliate for purposes of Rule 145 and to cause such person
to deliver to FNB, prior to the date of our special meeting, a
written agreement intended to ensure compliance with the
Securities Act in connection with the sale or other transfer of
FNB common stock received in the merger.
Interests of Our Directors and Executive Officers in the
Merger
In considering the recommendation of our board of directors that
you vote in favor of the approval of the merger proposal, you
should be aware that some of our executive officers and
directors have interests in the
40
merger that are different from, or in addition to, your
interests as our shareholders. Our board of directors was aware
of these interests and took them into account in its decision to
approve the merger agreement.
These interests relate to or arise from, among other things:
|
|
|
|
|
the continued indemnification of our current directors and
executive officers under the merger agreement and providing
these individuals with directors and officers
insurance; and |
|
|
|
the severance payment due to David B. Hartman, our President and
Chief Executive Officer, pursuant to the terms of an executive
employment agreement. |
Indemnification and Directors and Officers
Insurance. FNB has agreed in the merger agreement that for
six years following the effective time of the merger, FNB will
indemnify and hold harmless each of our present and former
directors, officers and employees and those of our subsidiaries
against any costs or expenses including reasonable
attorneys fees, judgments, fines, losses, claims, damages
or liabilities incurred in connection with any claim, action,
suit, proceeding or investigation, whether civil, criminal,
administrative or investigative, arising out of matters existing
or occurring at or prior to the effective time of the merger
including the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement,
whether asserted or claimed prior to, at or after the effective
time of the merger, to the fullest extent that the person would
have been indemnified pursuant to (i) our Articles of
Incorporation and By-laws and (ii) any agreement,
arrangement or understanding disclosed by us to FNB, in each
case as in effect on the date of the merger agreement.
FNB has also agreed in the merger agreement that for a period of
six years after the effective time of the merger, it will cause
the persons serving as our directors and officers immediately
prior to the effective time of the merger to be covered by the
directors and officers liability insurance policy we
currently maintain. FNB is permitted to provide a substitute
insurance policy of at least the same coverage and amounts that
contains terms and conditions that are not materially less
advantageous than the insurance policy we presently maintain. In
no case, however, will FNB be required to expend in any one year
an amount in excess of 150% of the annual premium currently paid
by us for such insurance. If FNB is unable to maintain or obtain
such insurance for that amount, then FNB will use its reasonable
best efforts to obtain the most advantageous coverage as is
available for that amount.
401(k) Retirement Plan. Under the North East Bank 401(k)
Plan, which we refer to as the 401(k) Plan in this
proxy statement/ prospectus, all employer contribution accounts
will become fully vested upon the termination of the 401(k)
Plan. We have agreed to terminate the 401(k) Plan immediately
prior to the effective time of the merger. Of our senior
management who participate in the 401(k) Plan, our Chief
Executive Officer, David B. Hartman is not currently
fully-vested in his employer contribution accounts. The
aggregate employer contribution account balances for
Mr. Hartman who will become vested in the event the 401(k)
Plan is terminated is approximately $700.
Other than as set forth above, none of our directors or
executive officers has any direct or indirect material interest
in the merger, except insofar as ownership of our common stock
might be deemed such an interest.
Boards of Directors of FNB and FNB Bank Following the
Merger
The board of directors of FNB and FNB Bank immediately prior to
the effective time of the merger will be the board of directors
of FNB and FNB Bank immediately following the closing of the
merger.
Regulatory Approvals Required for the Merger
Completion of the merger is subject to federal regulatory agency
filings and approvals. The merger cannot be completed unless FNB
and FNB Bank receive prior approvals, waivers or exemptions from
the OCC and the Federal Reserve Board.
Neither FNB nor we can predict whether or when the required
regulatory approvals, waivers or exemptions will be obtained. As
of the date of this proxy statement/ prospectus, all
applications and requests for waivers or exemptions have been
filed with the OCC and the Federal Reserve Board.
41
Federal Reserve Board. Because FNB and we are bank
holding companies registered under the Bank Holding Company Act
of 1956, as amended, the merger is subject to prior approval or
waiver from the Federal Reserve Board under Section 3 of
the Bank Holding Company Act.
Office of the Comptroller of the Currency. The merger of
North East Bank with and into FNB Bank is subject to the prior
approval of the OCC under the Bank Merger Act. On June 20,
2005, FNB and FNB Bank filed their application for approval of
the bank merger with the OCC. In reviewing applications under
the Bank Merger Act, the OCC must consider, among other factors,
the financial and managerial resources and future prospects of
the existing and proposed institutions, the convenience and
needs of the communities to be served and the effectiveness of
both institutions in combating money laundering. In addition,
the OCC may not approve a merger:
|
|
|
|
|
that will result in a monopoly or be in furtherance of any
combination or conspiracy to monopolize or to attempt to
monopolize the business of banking in any part of the United
States; |
|
|
|
if its effect in any section of the country may be substantially
to lessen competition or tend to create a monopoly; or |
|
|
|
if it would in any other manner be a restraint of trade, |
unless the OCC finds that the anticompetitive effects of the
merger are clearly outweighed by the public interest and the
probable effect of the merger on meeting the convenience and
needs of the communities to be served.
Under the Community Reinvestment Act, the OCC must also take
into account the record of performance of each of the merging
banks in meeting the credit needs of the entire community,
including low and moderate income neighborhoods served by each
institution. As part of the merger review process, the federal
supervisory agencies frequently receive comments and protests
from community groups and others. Each of North East Bank and
FNB Bank received Satisfactory performance ratings
in their most recent Community Reinvestment Act evaluations.
The OCC is also authorized to, but generally does not, hold a
public hearing or meeting in connection with an application
under the Bank Merger Act. A decision by the OCC that such a
hearing or meeting would be appropriate regarding any
application could prolong the period during which the
application is subject to review.
Mergers approved by the OCC under the Bank Merger Act, with
certain exceptions, may not be consummated until 30 days
after such approval, during which time the United States
Department of Justice may challenge such merger on antitrust
grounds and may require the divestiture of certain assets and
liabilities. With the approval of the OCC and the Department of
Justice, the waiting period may be, and customarily is, reduced
to no less than 15 days. There can be no assurance that the
Department of Justice will not challenge the merger or, if such
a challenge is made, as to the result of such challenge.
Other Regulatory Approvals. Neither we nor FNB are aware
of any other regulatory approvals that would be required for
completion of the merger or the bank merger except as described
above. Should any other approvals be required, we and FNB
presently contemplate that such approvals would be sought. There
can be no assurance, however, that any other approvals, if
required, will be obtained.
There can be no assurance that the regulatory authorities
described above will approve the merger or the bank merger, and
if such mergers are approved, there can be no assurance as to
the date such approvals will be received. In any event, FNB and
North East do not expect to obtain all required regulatory
approvals until during the fourth quarter of 2005. The merger
cannot proceed in the absence of the receipt of all requisite
regulatory approvals and the expiration of statutory antitrust
waiting periods. See The Merger Agreement
Conditions to Completion of the Merger and The
Merger Agreement Amendment, Waiver and Termination
of the Merger Agreement.
The approval of any application merely implies the satisfaction
of regulatory criteria for approval, which do not include review
of the merger from the standpoint of the adequacy of the merger
consideration to be
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received by our shareholders. Further, regulatory approvals do
not constitute an endorsement or recommendation of the merger.
Public Trading Markets
FNB common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under
the symbol FNB. Our common stock is infrequently
traded over-the-counter under the symbol NEBI. The
FNB common stock issuable pursuant to the merger agreement will
be listed on the New York Stock Exchange.
The shares of FNB common stock to be issued in connection with
the merger will be freely transferable under the Securities Act,
except for shares issued to any of our shareholders that may be
deemed either to be an affiliate of (i) FNB at or after the
effective time of the merger or (ii) us at the time of our
special meeting, as discussed in Resale of FNB
Common Stock beginning on Page 40.
FNB Dividends
During 2004, FNB paid cash dividends on its common stock of
$.92 per share. FNB paid a cash dividend of $.23 per
share for each of the first and second quarters of 2005,
although the FNB board of directors may change this dividend
policy at any time. Following consummation of the merger,
holders of our common stock could anticipate receiving dividends
at a similar rate per year.
FNB shareholders are entitled to receive cash dividends when and
if declared by the FNB board of directors out of funds legally
available for dividends. The FNB board of directors quarterly
considers the payment of dividends, taking into
account FNBs financial condition and level of net
income, FNBs future prospects, economic conditions,
industry practices and other factors, including applicable
banking laws and regulations.
The primary source of FNBs funds for cash dividends to its
shareholders is dividends received from its subsidiaries,
including FNB Bank. FNB Bank is subject to various regulatory
policies and requirements relating to the payment of dividends
to FNB, including requirements to maintain capital above
regulatory minimums. The appropriate federal regulatory
authority is authorized to determine under certain circumstances
relating to the financial condition of a bank or bank holding
company that the payment of dividends would be an unsafe or
unsound practice and to prohibit payment thereof. In addition,
the ability of FNB and the ability of FNB Bank to pay dividends
may be affected by the various minimum capital requirements and
the capital and non-capital standards established under the
Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Improvement Act of 1991.
Appraisal Rights of Dissenting Shareholders
Appraisal rights are statutory rights that enable shareholders
to dissent from an extraordinary transaction, such as a merger,
and to demand that the corporation pay the fair value for their
shares as determined by a court in a judicial proceeding instead
of receiving the consideration offered to shareholders in
connection with the extraordinary transaction.
A holder of shares of our common stock is entitled to exercise
the rights under Subchapter D of the BCL, which we refer to as
Subchapter D in this proxy statement/prospectus, to
object to the merger and to make a written demand that we pay in
cash the fair value of the shares held by the shareholder as
determined in accordance with Subchapter D. The following
summary is a materially complete summary of the provisions of
Subchapter D, but is qualified in its entirety by reference
to the provisions of Subchapter D, which are set forth in
full as Appendix C to this proxy statement/prospectus.
The fair value of our shares of common stock is defined in
Subchapter D as the fair value of the shares immediately before
the effective time of the merger, taking into account all
relevant factors, but excluding any appreciation or depreciation
in anticipation of the merger. You should recognize that the
fair value of the merger consideration of one share of our
common stock will be $107.00 worth of FNB common stock and cash
that a shareholder will receive under the terms of the merger
agreement if the shareholder does not exercise appraisal rights
with respect to the shareholders shares. Opinions of
investment banking firms as to the
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fairness from a financial point of view of consideration
received in a merger, such as the opinion issued by Boenning,
are not necessarily determinative of fair value under
Subchapter D.
Except as otherwise provided below, only a record holder of
shares of our common stock is entitled to assert appraisal
rights with respect to the shares registered in the
holders name. A record holder, such as a broker or
depository nominee, who holds shares as a nominee for others,
may exercise appraisal rights with respect to all (but not less
than all) of the shares held for one or more beneficial owners,
while not exercising the rights for other beneficial owners. The
demand for payment described below must show the name and
address of the person or persons on whose behalf the appraisal
rights are being exercised. A beneficial owner who is not a
record holder who wishes to exercise appraisal rights may do so
only if the shareholder submits a written consent of the record
holder with his demand for payment. Accordingly, if you are a
beneficial owner of shares, you are advised to consult promptly
with your record holder as to the timely exercise of appraisal
rights. A beneficial owner may not assert appraisal rights with
respect to some but less than all shares owned by him or her,
whether or not all of the shares so owned by he or she are
registered in their name.
To exercise appraisal rights and obtain payment of the fair
value of his shares, a shareholder must satisfy all the
following conditions:
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The shareholder must notify us in writing before the date of our
special meeting of the shareholders intention to demand
that the shareholder be paid the fair value for the
shareholders shares if the merger is consummated. Neither
a proxy nor a vote against the merger proposal will constitute
the required notice. |
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The shareholder must make no change in the beneficial ownership
of the shareholders shares from the date the shareholder
files the written notice continuously through the effective time
of the merger. |
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The shareholder must refrain from voting the shareholders
shares in favor of the merger proposal. Neither an abstention
from voting with respect to, nor a failure to vote in person or
by proxy against approval of, the merger proposal will
constitute a waiver of a shareholders appraisal rights.
However, a signed proxy that is returned without any instruction
as to how the proxy should be voted will be voted in favor of
the merger proposal and will be deemed to be a waiver of the
shareholders appraisal rights. |
A notice of intention to demand payment must clearly state that
the shareholder intends to demand that the shareholder be paid
the fair value of the shareholders shares if the merger is
consummated, must provide the name, address and telephone number
of the shareholder making the demand and must be sent to us. A
shareholder who exercises appraisal rights will retain all other
rights as a shareholder until the merger is consummated.
If the merger is approved at our special meeting, we will mail
to each shareholder who complied with the procedures listed
above a notice stating where and when a demand for payment of
the fair value of ones shares must be sent, and where and
when stock certificates must be deposited to obtain payment of
the fair value. The notice will be accompanied by a demand for
payment form, which will include a request that the shareholder
certify the date on which the shareholder (or the person on
whose behalf the shareholder exercises appraisal rights)
acquired beneficial ownership of the shares. A shareholder
exercising appraisal rights will have 30 days from the date
that we mail the notice to send in their demand for payment form
and to deposit their stock certificate. If a shareholder fails
to send in the demand for payment or stock certificate on a
timely basis, that shareholder will lose appraisal rights under
Subchapter D, but will retain all other rights as a shareholder
until the merger is consummated.
If the merger has not been effectuated within 60 days after
the date set for demanding payment and depositing certificates,
we will return any certificates that have been deposited. Once
the deposited certificates are returned, we may thereafter send
a new notice to demand payment, which will have the same effect
as the original notice.
Promptly after completion of the merger, or upon timely receipt
of demand for payment if the merger has already been
effectuated, we will either remit to shareholders who have made
a demand and have deposited
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their stock certificates the amount we estimate to be the fair
value of the shares, or give written notice that no remittance
will be made. The remittance or notice must be accompanied by
the following documents:
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Our closing balance sheet and statement of income for the fiscal
year ending not more than 16 months before the date of
remittance or notice, together with our latest available interim
financial statements; |
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A statement of our estimate of the fair value of the shares; and |
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A notice of the right of the shareholder to demand payment or
supplemental payment, as the case may be, accompanied by a copy
of Subchapter D. |
If we do not remit the amount of our estimate of the fair value
of the shares, we will return all stock certificates that the
shareholders have deposited. We may make a notation on any of
the certificates that a demand for payment has been made. If
shares with respect to which a notation has been so made are
transferred, a transferee of the shares will not acquire by
virtue of the transfer any rights in the shares other than those
that the original shareholder had after making a demand for
payment.
If we give notice of our estimate of the fair value of the
shares without remitting payment, or if we remit payment of the
amount for any shareholders shares and the shareholder
believes that the amount stated or remitted is less than the
fair value of the shareholders shares, the shareholder may
elect to send to us the shareholders own estimate of the
fair value of the shares, which will be deemed a demand for
payment of the amount of the deficiency. If a shareholder does
not file that shareholders own estimate within
30 days after our mailing of our remittance or notice, the
shareholder will be entitled to no more than the amount stated
on the notice or remitted to them by us.
If any demand for payment remains unsettled within 60 days
after the latest to occur of: (i) completion of the merger,
(ii) timely receipt of any demands for payment or
(iii) timely receipt of any estimates by shareholders of
the fair value of their shares, we may file an application for
relief in court requesting that the fair value of the shares be
determined by the court. While we do not anticipate filing an
application for the court to determine the fair market value of
the shares, if we elected to file an application, the
courts determination of the fair market value of the
shares may be higher or lower than the merger consideration.
Any shareholder who exercises appraisal rights, wherever
residing, whose demand has not been settled, will be made a
party to the proceeding. A copy of the application for relief
will be served on each such shareholder. If a shareholder is a
nonresident of Pennsylvania, the application will be served in
the manner provided or prescribed by or under applicable
provisions of Pennsylvania law relating to bases of jurisdiction
and interstate and international procedure. The jurisdiction of
the court will be plenary and exclusive. The court may appoint
an appraiser to receive evidence and recommend a decision on the
issue of fair value. The appraiser will have the power and
authority that is specified in the order of appointment or in
any amendment of the order. Each shareholder who is made a party
will be entitled to recover the amount by which the fair value
of his or her shares is found to exceed the amount, if any,
previously remitted, plus interest from the effective time of
the merger until the date of payment. Interest will be at a rate
that is fair and equitable under all of the circumstances,
taking into account all relevant factors.
If we fail to file an application for relief, any shareholder
who made a demand for payment and who has not already settled
such shareholders claim against us may file an application
for relief in our name at any time within 30 days after the
expiration of the 60-day period referred to above. If a
shareholder does not file an application within the 30-day
period, the shareholder will be paid our estimate of the fair
value of his shares and no more, and may bring an action to
recover any amount not previously remitted.
In general, the costs and expenses of any valuation proceeding,
including the reasonable compensation and expenses of any
appraiser appointed by the court, will be determined by the
court and assessed against us. However, any part of the costs
and expenses may be apportioned and assessed as the court deems
appropriate against all or some of the shareholders who are
parties to the proceeding and whose action in demanding
supplemental payment the court finds to be dilatory, obdurate,
arbitrary, vexatious or in bad faith. If the court finds that
the services of counsel for any shareholder were of substantial
benefit to other shareholders similarly
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situated and should not be assessed against us, it may award to
those counsel reasonable fees to be paid out of the amounts
awarded to the shareholders who were benefited.
From and after the effective time of the merger, shareholders
exercising their appraisal rights will not be entitled to
receive payment of dividends or other distributions on their
shares of our common stock.
Any shareholder considering exercising appraisal rights under
Subchapter D is advised to consult with legal counsel. A
shareholder who fails to follow with particularity all of the
steps required to preserve and perfect his appraisal rights
loses the right to seek appraisal under Subchapter D, in which
event, upon the surrender of certificates representing shares of
our common stock held by the shareholder, the shareholder will
receive the per share merger consideration set forth in the
merger agreement without interest for the shares the shareholder
holds, subject to the allocation provisions in the merger
agreement.
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THE MERGER AGREEMENT
The following section describes certain aspects of the
merger, including the material provisions of the merger
agreement. The following description summarizes the material
provisions of the merger agreement, but is subject to, and
qualified in its entirety by reference to, the merger agreement,
which is included as Appendix A to this proxy
statement/prospectus and is incorporated by reference in this
proxy statement/prospectus. We urge you to read the merger
agreement carefully and in its entirety.
Merger Consideration
The merger agreement provides that each share of our common
stock issued and outstanding immediately prior to the effective
time of the merger, other than treasury shares and shares as to
which appraisal rights are perfected, will be converted as
follows:
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if the average closing price of FNB common stock is $18.00 or
higher, into that number of shares of FNB common stock as is
determined by dividing $107.00 by the average closing price of
FNB common stock on the New York Stock Exchange for the 20
consecutive trading days ending on the fifth trading day prior
to consummation of the merger; or |
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if the average closing price of FNB common stock is less than
$18.00, at the discretion of FNB, either: |
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into that number of shares of FNB common stock as is determined
by dividing $107.00 by the average closing price computed as
provided above; or |
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into a combination of cash, but not more than $53.00 per
North East share, and that number of shares of FNB common stock
as is determined by dividing $107.00, less the cash paid per
North East share, by the average closing price of FNB common
stock for the 20 consecutive trading days ending on the fifth
trading day prior to consummation of the merger. |
Closing and Effective Time of the Merger
The merger will be completed only if all of the following
conditions are satisfied:
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our shareholders approve and adopt the merger agreement by the
necessary vote; |
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we and FNB obtain all required governmental and regulatory
consents and approvals and no injunctions are filed to prevent
the merger; |
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the registration statement of which this proxy
statement/prospectus is a part becomes effective; and |
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all other conditions to the merger set forth in this proxy
statement/prospectus and the merger agreement are either
satisfied or waived. |
The merger will become effective when articles of merger are
filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Florida and
with the Secretary of the Commonwealth of the Commonwealth of
Pennsylvania following the receipt of all required approvals
from Bank Regulatory Authorities. In the merger agreement, we
have agreed to cause the completion of the merger to occur no
later than the fifth business day following the satisfaction or
waiver of the last of the conditions specified in the merger
agreement or on another written mutually agreed upon date,
provided that such date shall not be less than 10 days
following our special meeting. It is currently anticipated that
the effective time of the merger will occur during the fourth
quarter of 2005, but we cannot guarantee when or if the merger
will be completed. FNBs Articles of Incorporation and
FNBs By-laws as in effect immediately prior to the
effective time will be FNBs Articles of Incorporation and
FNBs By-laws upon completion of the merger.
Representations, Warranties, Covenants and
Agreements
The merger agreement contains generally reciprocal and customary
representations and warranties of North East and FNB relating to
their respective businesses. No representation or warranty will
be deemed untrue or incorrect as a consequence of the existence
or absence of any fact, event or circumstance unless that
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fact, event or circumstance has had or is reasonably likely to
have a material adverse effect on the party making the
representation or warranty, disregarding any materiality or
material adverse effect qualifications in any representations or
warranties. The representations and warranties in the merger
agreement will not survive the effective time of the merger.
North East has made representations and warranties regarding,
among other things, its:
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corporate matters, including due organization, qualification and
authority; |
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capitalization and issuance of capital stock; |
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subsidiaries; |
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corporate power and authority to conduct its business; |
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authority relative to execution and delivery of the merger
agreement and the absence of conflicts with, or violations of,
organizational documents or other obligations as a result of the
merger; |
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required governmental filings and consents for approval of the
merger and the absence of any defaults; |
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the timely filing of reports with governmental entities, and the
absence of investigations by regulatory agencies; |
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the absence of material adverse effects; |
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legal proceedings; |
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compliance with applicable laws; |
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brokers fees payable in connection with the merger; |
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financial statements and the absence of undisclosed liabilities; |
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material contracts and the absence of defaults thereunder; |
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employee benefit plans; |
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labor matters; |
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environmental matters; |
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tax matters; |
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agreements with regulatory agencies; |
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risk management instruments; |
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all real and intellectual property; |
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loans and nonperforming and classified assets; |
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fiduciary accounts; |
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books and records; |
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insurance; |
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allowance for loan losses; |
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required vote needed to approve this merger; |
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the absence of knowledge preventing the merger from qualifying
as a reorganization; |
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the receipt of a fairness opinion from our financial
advisor; and |
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the accuracy of information supplied for inclusion in this proxy
statement/prospectus and other similar documents. |
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FNB has made representations and warranties regarding:
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corporate matters, including due organization, qualification and
authority; |
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capitalization; |
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subsidiaries; |
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corporate power and authority to conduct its business; |
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authority relative to execution and delivery of the merger
agreement and the absence of conflicts with, or violations of,
organizational documents or other obligations as a result of the
merger; |
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required governmental filings and consents for approval of the
merger and the absence of any defaults; |
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the timely filing of reports with governmental entities, and the
absence of investigations by regulatory agencies; |
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financial statements and the absence of undisclosed liabilities; |
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legal proceedings and the compliance with applicable laws; |
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the brokers fees payable in connection with the merger; |
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tax matters; |
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material contracts and the absence of defaults thereunder; |
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the absence of agreements with regulatory agencies; |
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interest rate risk management instruments; |
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the absence of material adverse effects; and |
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the absence of knowledge preventing the merger from qualifying
as a reorganization. |
We have agreed to certain customary covenants that place
restrictions on us and our subsidiaries until the effective time
of the merger. In general, we agree to:
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conduct our business in the ordinary course in all material
respects; and |
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use commercially reasonable best efforts to maintain and
preserve intact our business organization, employees and
advantageous business relationships. |
We have further agreed in the merger agreement that, except with
FNBs prior written consent, we will not, among other
things, undertake the following actions:
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issue, sell or otherwise permit to become outstanding any shares
of our common stock or options or other rights to acquire our
common stock; |
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make, declare or pay any dividends or other distributions on any
shares of our capital stock; |
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adjust, split, combine, reclassify, redeem, purchase or acquire
any shares of our common stock; |
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except as contemplated by the merger agreement, enter into or
amend any employment or severance agreement or grant any salary
increase other than: |
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normal increases in the ordinary course of business that, in the
aggregate, do not exceed 3%; |
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changes required by applicable law; |
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changes pursuant to existing plans or commitments as disclosed
to FNB; |
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severance payments as disclosed to FNB; and |
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grants of awards to newly-hired employees consistent with past
practice. |
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hire or promote any employee, except to satisfy existing
contractual obligations or to fill vacancies where employment is
terminable at our will and where the total compensation does not
exceed $30,000; |
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enter into, establish, amend or make any contributions to any
employee benefit plan, except as is required by applicable law
or to satisfy existing contractual obligations or take any
action to accelerate the vesting or exercisability of stock
options or other benefits; |
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other than in the ordinary course of business, sell, transfer,
mortgage, encumber or otherwise dispose of any assets, deposits,
business or properties; |
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acquire, other than by foreclosure or in satisfaction of debts
in the ordinary course of business, any assets, business,
deposits or properties of any other entity; |
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make any capital expenditure other than in the ordinary course
of business and in amounts not exceeding $10,000 individually or
$25,000 in the aggregate; |
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amend our Articles of Incorporation or By-laws or those of our
subsidiaries except as required by law; |
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implement or adopt any change in our tax accounting or financial
accounting principles, practices or methods, except as required
by changes in law or regulations or generally accepted
accounting principles; |
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other than in the ordinary course of business and as permitted
by the merger agreement, enter into or terminate any material
contract or amend any material contract in any material respect; |
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enter into any settlement of any action, proceeding, order or
investigation to which we are a party that involves the payment
of more than $25,000 by us or that would impose any material
restriction on our business; |
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enter into any new material line of business or change our
lending, investment, underwriting, risk and asset liability
management or other banking and operating policies that are
material to us, except as required by applicable law, or open or
close any branch location; |
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enter into any derivatives contract or acquire other investment
securities; |
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other than in the ordinary course of business, incur any
indebtedness or assume, guarantee, endorse or otherwise become
responsible for the indebtedness of any other person or prepay
any indebtedness; |
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other than in the ordinary course of business, acquire any debt
security or equity security other than federal funds or United
States Government or agency securities with a term of one year
or less or restructure or materially change our investment
securities portfolio or gap position; |
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other than in the ordinary course of business, make, renew or
otherwise modify: |
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(i) any loan, loan commitment, letter of credit or other
extension of credit (individually, a Loan and
collectively, Loans) to any Person if, immediately
after making (x) a Loan or Loans (other than a permanent
Loan secured by an owner-occupied 1-4 single-family residence or
a secured commercial Loan), such Person would be indebted to
North East Bank in an aggregate amount in excess of $25,000,
(y) a secured commercial Loan, such Person would be
indebted to North East Bank in an aggregate amount in excess of
$100,000 or (z) a permanent Loan secured by an
owner-occupied 1-4 single-family residence, such Person would be
indebted to North East Bank in an aggregate amount in excess of
$200,000; or |
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(ii) any Loan that contains terms that involve an exception
to North East Banks credit policy manual, provided,
however, that if FNB does not object to a written request for
approval within two business days after receipt, the request
shall be deemed approved. North East Bank further agrees that it
will review with representatives of FNB the circumstances and
terms of problem or work-out Loans before establishing a
work-out plan or otherwise taking any action with respect to any
such Loan and shall provide notice to FNB of, and permit
representatives of FNB at FNBs discretion to attend,
meetings of North East Banks loan committee; |
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other than in the ordinary course of business, make any
investment or commitment to invest in real estate or a real
estate development project other than in foreclosures,
acquisitions in fiduciary capacity or in satisfaction of a debt
previously contracted; |
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take any action that would, or is reasonably likely to, prevent
the merger from qualifying as a reorganization; |
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fail to hold our special meeting; |
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take any action that is intended, or is reasonably likely, to
result in: |
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any representations or warranties under the merger agreement
becoming untrue in any material respect; |
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any of the conditions to the merger not being satisfied; or |
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a material violation of the merger agreement or the bank merger
agreement; |
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take any action that would adversely affect or materially delay
necessary governmental or regulatory approvals, or our ability
to perform our covenants and agreements under the merger
agreement or to consummate the transactions contemplated by the
merger agreement; or |
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enter into any contract or otherwise agree or commit to do any
of the foregoing. |
FNB agreed that, except with our prior written consent, FNB will
not, among other things, undertake the following actions:
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take any action that would, or is reasonably likely to, prevent
the merger from qualifying as a reorganization; |
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take any action that is intended, or is reasonably likely to,
result in: |
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any representations or warranties under the merger agreement
becoming untrue in any material respect; |
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any of the conditions to the merger not being satisfied; or |
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a material violation of the merger agreement or the bank merger
agreement. |
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take any action that would adversely affect or materially delay
necessary governmental or regulatory approvals, or its ability
to perform its covenants and agreements under the merger
agreement or to consummate the transactions contemplated by the
merger agreement; or |
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enter into any agreement or otherwise agree or commit to do any
of the foregoing. |
The merger agreement also contains mutual covenants relating to
the preparation of this proxy statement/ prospectus and the
holding of our special meeting of shareholders, access to
information of the other company and public announcements with
respect to the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement.
Declaration and Payment of Dividends
We have agreed that we will not pay or make any dividends or
distributions on our common stock.
Agreement Not to Solicit Other Offers
We have also agreed that we, our subsidiaries and our and their
officers, directors, employees, agents and representatives will
not, directly or indirectly:
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initiate, solicit, encourage or take any action to facilitate
any inquiries or proposals for any Acquisition
Proposal, as defined below; |
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participate in any discussions or negotiations, furnish any
information to or approve, recommend or enter into any
agreement, regarding any Acquisition Proposal; or |
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approve, endorse, recommend or enter into a letter of intent or
any similar document or contract, agreement or commitment
contemplating an acquisition proposal. |
However, prior to the effective time of the merger, we may
consider and participate in discussions and negotiations with
respect to a Superior Proposal, as defined below, if:
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we have first entered into a confidentiality agreement with the
party proposing the Superior Proposal with confidentiality terms
no less favorable to us than those contained in our
confidentiality agreement with FNB; and |
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our board of directors concludes in good faith, after
consultation with our outside legal counsel, that failure to
take these actions would cause our board of directors to violate
its fiduciary duties to our shareholders. |
We have also agreed, at least 72 hours prior to providing
any information to any person or entering into any discussions
or negotiations with any person, to notify FNB in writing of the
name of such person and the material terms and conditions of any
such Superior Proposal. The merger agreement permits our board
of directors to withdraw or qualify its recommendation of our
merger with FNB if our board of directors concludes in good
faith, after consultation with our outside legal counsel and our
financial advisors, that failure to take such actions would
breach its fiduciary duties to our shareholders.
We have agreed:
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to notify FNB promptly, and in any event within 24 hours,
after we receive any Acquisition Proposal, or any information
related thereto, which notification shall describe the
Acquisition Proposal and the third party making it; and |
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to cease any existing discussions or negotiations with any
persons with respect to any Acquisition Proposal. |
As used in the merger agreement, an Acquisition
Proposal means any inquiry, proposal, offer, regulatory
filing or disclosure of an intention to do any of the foregoing
regarding any:
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direct or indirect acquisition or purchase of a business of a
substantial portion of the net revenues, net income or net
assets of us or any of our subsidiaries; |
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direct or indirect acquisition of our common stock representing
10% or more of the voting power of our common stock; |
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tender offer or exchange offer that if consummated would result
in any person beneficially owning 10% or more of our common
stock; or |
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merger, consolidation, business combination, recapitalization,
liquidation or dissolution involving us, other than our proposed
merger with FNB. |
As used in the merger agreement, Superior Proposal
means any bona fide, unsolicited written Acquisition Proposal
made by a third party to acquire more than 50% of the voting
power of our then outstanding shares of common stock or all or
substantially all of our consolidated assets for consideration
consisting of cash and/or securities, that our board of
directors in good faith concludes, after consultation with our
financial advisors and our outside legal counsel, taking into
account, among other things, all legal, financial, regulatory
and other aspects of the proposal and the person making the
proposal, including any break-up fees, expense reimbursement
provisions and conditions to consummation:
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is on terms that are more favorable from a financial point of
view to our shareholders than the terms of the proposed merger
with FNB; |
52
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has financing, to the extent required, that is fully committed
or reasonably determined to be available to the party making the
offer; and |
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is reasonably capable of being completed. |
Expenses and Fees
In general, each of FNB and North East will be responsible for
all expenses it incurs in connection with the negotiation and
completion of the transactions contemplated by the merger
agreement. However, the costs and expenses of printing and
mailing this proxy statement/prospectus, and all filing and
other fees paid to the SEC in connection with the merger, will
be shared equally by FNB and us.
Conditions to Completion of the Merger
Our respective obligations to complete the merger are subject to
the fulfillment or waiver of certain conditions, including:
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the approval and adoption of the merger agreement and the
approval of the merger by the holders of a majority of our
outstanding shares of common stock; |
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the receipt and effectiveness of all governmental and other
approvals, registrations and consents, and the expiration of all
related waiting periods required to complete the merger; |
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the absence of any law, statute, regulation, judgment, decree,
injunction or other order in effect by any court or other
governmental entity that prohibits completion of the
transactions contemplated by the merger agreement; |
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this registration statement with respect to the FNB common stock
to be issued in the merger shall have become effective under the
Securities Act and no stop order or proceedings for that purpose
will have been initiated or threatened by the SEC; |
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the approval of the listing of the FNB common stock to be issued
in the merger on the New York Stock Exchange, subject to
official notice of issuance; |
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the truth and correctness of the representations and warranties
of FNB and North East in the merger agreement, subject to the
materiality standard provided in the merger agreement, and the
performance by each of FNB and us in all material respects of
our respective obligations under the merger agreement and the
receipt by each of us of certificates from the other to that
effect; and |
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the receipt by each of FNB and North East of a legal opinion
with respect to certain federal income tax consequences of the
merger. |
In addition, FNBs obligation to complete the merger is
also subject to receipt by FNB of Phase I environmental
studies with respect to all real property owned by us or North
East Bank, the findings of which studies shall be acceptable to
FNB who will not unreasonably withhold such acceptance.
We cannot provide assurance as to when or if all of the
conditions to the merger can or will be satisfied or waived by
the appropriate party. As of the date of this proxy
statement/prospectus, we have no reason to believe that any of
these conditions will not be satisfied.
Amendment, Waiver and Termination of the Merger
Agreement
Subject to applicable law, FNB and North East may amend the
merger agreement and any provision may be waived by the party
benefited by the provision, by written agreement authorized by
their boards of directors. However, after approval of the merger
proposal by our shareholders, there may not be, without further
approval of our shareholders, any further amendment of the
merger agreement that by law would
53
require such further approval. The merger agreement may be
terminated at any time prior to closing by mutual consent and by
either party in the following circumstances:
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provided the terminating party is not then in material breach,
if there is a breach by the other party that would cause the
failure of the closing conditions described above, unless the
breach is capable of being, and is, cured within 30 days of
notice of the breach; |
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if the merger has not been consummated by January 31, 2006,
unless the failure to consummate the merger by that date is due
to the terminating partys actions; |
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if any of the required regulatory approvals for the merger are
denied and the denial is final and nonappealable; or |
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if our shareholders do not approve and adopt the merger
agreement and approve the merger by the requisite vote, provided
that we are not in material breach of our covenant to hold our
special meeting and our board of directors is not in breach of
its covenant to recommend such approval. |
FNB may terminate the merger agreement at any time prior to our
special meeting in the following circumstances:
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if we have failed to have our board of directors recommend that
our shareholders approve and adopt the merger agreement and
approve the merger, or if our board of directors has withdrawn
or modified its recommendation in a manner adverse to FNB; |
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if we have breached in any material respect our obligations with
respect to Acquisition Proposals and Superior Proposals as
described on Pages 51 through 53; or |
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if we have breached in any material respect our obligation to
hold our special meeting. |
The merger agreement also provided us with certain rights to
terminate the merger agreement until the date of mailing of this
proxy statement/ prospectus in connection with a Superior
Proposal. We did not exercise these rights.
Effect of Termination; Break-up Fee; Expenses
If the merger agreement is terminated, it will become void, and
there will be no liability on the part of FNB or us, except that:
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termination will not relieve a breaching party from liability
for its willful breach giving rise to the termination; and |
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the confidentiality agreement between the parties will survive
termination. |
We are obligated under the merger agreement to pay FNB a
break-up fee of $750,000 in the following four circumstances:
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our board of directors fails to make or withdraw its
recommendation of the merger proposal; |
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because we have breached our obligations regarding acquisition
or superior proposals; |
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a tender offer or exchange offer for 25% or more of our
outstanding common stock is commenced, and our board fails to
reject such offer within 10 business days; or |
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we fail to call, give notice of, convene or hold the special
meeting to receive shareholder approval of the merger proposal. |
We have also agreed that if either FNB or we breach our
representations, warranties, covenants or agreements in the
merger agreement, which breach could reasonably be expected to
result in a material adverse effect and which breach cannot be
or is not cured, the breaching party, assuming the other party
is not also in material breach of its obligations under the
merger agreement, will pay all out-of-pocket expenses, including
fees and expenses of legal counsel, financial advisors and
accountants, of the non-breaching party.
54
We have also agreed to pay FNBs out-of-pocket expenses in
the event the merger proposal is not approved by the requisite
vote of our shareholders at our special meeting.
Employee Benefit Plans
The merger agreement provides that, as soon as administratively
practicable after completion of the merger, FNB will provide our
employees with benefits and compensation plans that are
equivalent to those provided to similarly situated FNB employees.
FNB will generally provide our employees with service credit for
their service with us for purposes of eligibility,
participation, vesting and levels of benefits, but generally not
for benefit accruals under defined benefit pension plans, under
the employee benefit and compensation plans of FNB in which such
employees are eligible to participate following the merger. FNB
has agreed to waive specified exclusions and limitations under
its welfare benefit plans in which our employees are eligible to
participate following the merger under the corresponding North
East plan in which the applicable employee participated prior to
the merger and to give our employees credit, for the plan year
in which they start participating in any such plan, towards
applicable deductibles and annual out-of-pocket limits for
expenses incurred before such participation.
ACCOUNTING TREATMENT
The merger will be accounted for as a purchase, as
that term is used under GAAP, for accounting and financial
reporting purposes. Under purchase accounting, our assets,
including identifiable intangible assets, and liabilities,
including executory contracts and other commitments, as of the
effective time of the merger will be recorded at their
respective fair values and added to the balance sheet of FNB.
Any excess of the purchase price over the fair values will be
recorded as goodwill. Financial statements of FNB issued after
the merger would reflect these fair values and the results of
operations for us from the date of acquisition. See
Selected Consolidated Unaudited Pro Forma Financial
Information beginning on Page 12.
MATERIAL FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE MERGER
The following discussion is a summary description of the
material U.S. federal income tax consequences of the merger
applicable to North East shareholders. This discussion does not
purport to consider all aspects of U.S. federal income
taxation that may be relevant to a North East shareholder. This
discussion is based upon the provisions of the Code, existing
regulations and administrative and judicial interpretations of
the Code, all of which are as in effect as of the date of this
proxy statement/ prospectus and are subject to change, possibly
with retroactive effect. This discussion applies only to North
East shareholders who hold their shares of North East stock as
capital assets within the meaning of Section 1221 of the
Code and does not apply to the following:
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shareholders who received their shares of North East common
stock as compensation; |
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shareholders who hold their shares of North East common stock as
part of a straddle, hedge,
conversion transaction, synthetic
security or other integrated investment; |
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shareholders, including, without limitation, financial
institutions, insurance companies, tax-exempt organizations,
dealers or traders in securities and shareholders subject to the
alternative minimum tax, who may be subject to special rules; |
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shareholders whose functional currency is not the
U.S. dollar; or |
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shareholders who, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, are
non-resident alien individuals, foreign corporations, foreign
partnerships, foreign estates or foreign trusts. |
This discussion also does not consider the effect of any
foreign, state or local laws or any U.S. federal laws other
than those pertaining to the income tax.
55
Accordingly, you should consult your tax advisor to determine
the tax effect to you of the merger, including the application
and effect of foreign or U.S. federal, state, local or
other tax laws.
Tax Opinion and Merger
Completion of the merger is contingent upon the receipt by:
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FNB of an opinion from its outside counsel to the effect that
the merger will be treated as a reorganization within the
meaning of Section 368(a) of the Code; and |
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North East of an opinion from its outside counsel to the effect
that the merger will be treated as a reorganization within the
meaning of Section 368(a) of the Code. |
The tax opinions of Duane Morris LLP, counsel for FNB, and
Buchanan Ingersoll PC, counsel for North East, are included as
Exhibits 8.1 and 8.2 to the registration statement filed
with the SEC of which this proxy statement/ prospectus is a
part. These opinions are based upon, among other things,
representations of fact contained in certificates of officers of
FNB and North East. We will not seek any ruling from the
Internal Revenue Service as to the U.S. federal income tax
consequences of the merger, and the opinions of counsel are not
binding upon the Internal Revenue Service or any court.
Accordingly, we can give no assurance that the Internal Revenue
Service will not contest the conclusions expressed in the
opinions or that a court will not sustain that contest.
Assuming the merger is consummated in the manner described in
this proxy statement/ prospectus and in accordance with the
merger agreement, the merger will qualify as a
reorganization within the meaning of
Section 368(a) of the Code. The following discussion sets
forth the U.S. federal income tax consequences to North
East shareholders of the qualification of the merger as a
reorganization within the meaning of
Section 368(a) of the Code.
North East Shareholders Who Receive FNB Common
Stock
A North East shareholder who receives shares of FNB common stock
in exchange for shares of North East common stock will not
recognize any gain or loss on that exchange, except to the
extent the shareholder receives cash in lieu of a fractional
share of FNB common stock, as discussed below. The aggregate
adjusted tax basis of FNB common stock received will equal the
North East shareholders aggregate adjusted tax basis in
the shares of North East common stock surrendered in the merger,
decreased by the amount of any tax basis allocable to any
fractional share of FNB common stock for which cash is received.
The holding period of the FNB common stock received in the
merger will include the holding period of the North East common
stock surrendered in the merger. If a North East shareholder has
differing tax bases and/or holding periods in respect of the
shareholders shares of North East common stock, the
shareholder should consult with a tax advisor in order to
identify the tax bases and/or holding periods of the particular
shares of FNB common stock that the shareholder receives.
North East Shareholders Who Receive Cash and FNB Common
Stock
If the consideration received in the merger by a North East
shareholder consists of part cash and part FNB common stock
received pursuant to the exercise of FNBs option to pay
part of the consideration in cash in accordance with the terms
of the merger agreement, the shareholder will recognize gain,
but not loss, to the extent of the lesser of (i) the excess
of the sum of the amount of cash and the fair market value, as
of the date of the merger, of the shares of FNB common stock
received, over the adjusted tax basis of the shares of North
East common stock surrendered in exchange for FNB common stock,
and (ii) the amount of cash received by the shareholder in
the exchange. For this purpose, a North East shareholder must
calculate gain or loss separately for each identifiable block of
shares of North East common stock that such shareholder
surrenders pursuant to the merger, and a North East shareholder
cannot offset a loss recognized on one block of such shares of
North East common stock against a gain recognized on another
block of such shares of North East common stock.
56
In the case of a North East shareholder who recognizes gain on
the exchange, if the exchange sufficiently reduces the
shareholders proportionate stock interest, as discussed
below, the gain will be characterized as a capital gain. If the
exchange does not sufficiently reduce the shareholders
proportionate stock interest, that gain will be taxable as a
dividend to the extent of the shareholders ratable share
of accumulated earnings and profits, as calculated for
U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the remainder, if
any, of that recognized gain will be capital gain. Any
recognized capital gain will be long-term capital gain if the
shareholders holding period for the surrendered shares of
North East common stock exceeds one year.
The determination of whether the exchange sufficiently reduces a
North East shareholders proportionate stock interest will
be made in accordance with Section 302 of the Code, taking
into account the stock ownership attribution rules of
Section 318 of the Code. Under Section 318,
individuals are treated as constructively owning stock owned by
specified members of the individuals family or by certain
entities in which the individual or his family members have a
beneficial interest and certain entities are treated as
constructively owning stock owned by persons having a beneficial
interest in the entity. For purposes of determining whether the
exchange sufficiently reduces a shareholders proportionate
stock interest, a North East shareholder is treated as if
(1) all of that shareholders shares of North East
common stock were first exchanged in the merger for FNB common
stock, and (2) a portion of that FNB common stock was then
redeemed for the cash actually received in the merger. The North
East shareholders hypothetical stock interest in FNB (both
actual and constructive) after hypothetical step (2) is
compared to the North East shareholders hypothetical stock
interest in FNB, both actual and constructive, after
hypothetical step (1). Dividend treatment will apply unless
(A) the shareholders stock interest in FNB has been
completely terminated, (B) there has been a
substantially disproportionate reduction in the
shareholders stock interest in FNB (i.e., the interest
after hypothetical step (2) is less than 80% of the
interest after hypothetical step (1)), or (C) the exchange
is not essentially equivalent to a dividend. While
the determination is based on a North East shareholders
particular facts and circumstances, the Internal Revenue Service
has indicated in published rulings that a distribution is not
essentially equivalent to a dividend and will
therefore result in capital gain treatment if the distribution
results in any actual reduction in the stock interest of an
extremely small minority shareholder in a publicly held
corporation and the shareholder exercises no control with
respect to corporate affairs.
Because the determination of whether a payment will be treated
as having the effect of the distribution of a dividend generally
will depend upon the facts and circumstances of each North East
shareholder, you are strongly advised to consult your own tax
advisors regarding the tax treatment of cash received in the
merger, including the application of the constructive ownership
rules of the Code and the effect of any transactions in FNB
common stock or shares of North East common stock by you.
The tax basis in the FNB common stock of a North East
shareholder who receives cash and FNB common stock in the merger
in the FNB common stock received will equal the North East
shareholders adjusted tax basis in the shareholders
shares of North East common stock increased by any gain
recognized as a result of the merger and reduced by the amount
of cash received in the merger. The holding period of the FNB
common stock received will include the holding period of the
shares of North East common stock surrendered in the merger.
Cash received and gain realized in connection with the receipt
of cash in lieu of a fractional share of FNB common stock will
not be taken into account in making the computations of gain
realized or recognized and of the basis in the FNB common stock
received. Rather, such cash and gain are treated as described
below.
Fractional Shares
A North East shareholder who receives cash in lieu of a
fractional share of FNB common stock will be treated as having
first received the fractional share of FNB common stock in the
merger and then as having received cash in exchange for the
fractional share interest. A North East shareholder generally
will recognize gain or loss in an amount equal to the difference
between the amount of cash received in lieu of the fractional
share of FNB common stock and the portion of the basis in the
shares of North East common stock allocable to that fractional
interest.
57
Material Federal Income Tax Consequences to FNB and North
East
Neither FNB nor North East will recognize gain or loss as a
result of the merger.
Tax Consequences If the Merger Does Not Qualify as a
Reorganization Under Section 368(a) of the Code
If the Internal Revenue Service determines that the merger of
North East with and into FNB does not qualify as a
reorganization within the meaning of Section 368(a) of the
Code and that determination is upheld, the North East
shareholders would be required to recognize gain or loss with
respect to each share of North East common stock surrendered in
the merger in an amount equal to the difference between
(a) the sum of the fair market value of any FNB common
stock and cash received in the merger and (b) the tax basis
of the shares of North East common stock surrendered in exchange
therefor. Such gain or loss will be long-term capital gain or
loss if such shareholder held the North East common stock for
more than one year, and will be short-term capital gain or loss
if such shareholder held the North East common stock for less
than one year. The amount and character of gain or loss will be
computed separately for each block of North East common stock
that was purchased by the holder in the same transaction. A
North East shareholders aggregate tax basis in the FNB
common stock received in the merger would in this case be equal
to its fair market value at the time of the closing of the
merger, and the holding period for the FNB common stock would
begin the day after the closing of the merger.
Backup Withholding
Payments in connection with the merger may be subject to
backup withholding at a rate of 28%, unless a North
East shareholder, (1) provides a correct taxpayer
identification number (which, for an individual shareholder, is
the shareholders social security number) and any required
information to the exchange agent, (2) provides a
certification of foreign status on Form W-8 or successor
form or (3) is a corporation or comes within certain exempt
categories and otherwise complies with applicable requirements
of the backup withholding rules. A North East shareholder who
does not provide a correct taxpayer identification number may be
subject to penalties imposed by the Internal Revenue Service.
Any amount paid as backup withholding does not constitute an
additional tax and will be credited against the
shareholders U.S. federal income tax liability. Each
North East shareholder should consult with his own tax advisor
as to his qualification for exemption from backup withholding
and the procedure for obtaining this exemption. You may prevent
backup withholding by completing a substitute form W-9
(contained with the form of transmittal letter to be forwarded
to you) and submitting it to the exchange agent for the merger
when you submit your North East share certificates for exchange.
DESCRIPTION OF NORTH EAST
North East is a registered bank holding company organized under
the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and headquartered
in North East, Pennsylvania. North East provides a variety of
community banking services to its customers in Pennsylvania
through its wholly owned subsidiary, North East Bank, a national
association located in Pennsylvania, that provides commercial,
residential real estate, and consumer loan financing, as well as
interest on investment securities and a variety of deposit
services. North Easts main office is located at 5999
Station Road, North East, Pennsylvania 16428 and its telephone
number is (814) 725-2265.
North East was incorporated on January 21, 1988, at the
direction of North East Bank for the purpose of engaging in the
business of a bank holding company for North East Bank, a
national association organized in 1908. North East and North
East Bank are located and primarily serve customers in the city
of North East, Pennsylvania. As of June 30, 2005, on a
consolidated basis, North East and North East Bank had total
assets, total liabilities and total stockholders equity of
approximately $65.0 million, $58.1 million and
$6.8 million, respectively.
58
North East, through North East Bank, is a full-service
institution that offers various demand and time deposit products
and originates secured and unsecured commercial, consumer and
mortgage loans. North East is focused on being a customer-driven
community financial service provider. North Easts business
strategy involves emphasizing service and building profitable
loan and deposit relationships within its service area.
North East seeks to minimize lending losses by focusing on
borrowers with strong credit qualifications, as well as
diversifying its loan portfolio and conducting ongoing review
and management of its loan portfolio. Within North Easts
diversified loan portfolio are loans outstanding to individuals
and businesses functioning as real estate operators and lessors,
as well as commercial and residential first and second mortgage
loans. All loans are located in Pennsylvania or New York and the
majority of the loans are in North Easts primary market
area of Erie County, Pennsylvania. Commercial loans are
primarily to small- and medium-sized businesses and are focused
toward customers who are potential deposit customers of North
East Bank.
No material portion of the deposits of North East Bank has been
obtained from a single or small group of customers, and the loss
of any customers deposits or a small group of
customers deposits would not have a material adverse
effect on the business of North East. As of June 30, 2005,
North East and North East Bank had 38 full-time equivalent
employees.
59
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL
CONDITION
AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS OF NORTH EAST
The following discussion of North Easts results of
operations and financial condition should be read in conjunction
with the financial statements of North East included elsewhere
in this proxy statement/ prospectus.
Overview
Net losses for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2004 were
$1,020,372, or $7.03 per basic share, compared to net
losses of $779,875, or $5.37 per basic share, for the
fiscal year ended December 31, 2003. This increase in North
Easts net losses was primarily due to less net interest
income after provision for loan losses and less non-interest
income. North East maintains a simple capital structure,
therefore, there are no dilutive effects on earnings per share.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
North Easts primary source of cash during the fiscal year
ended December 31, 2004 was from interest on investment
securities, maturing securities, payments on loans and service
fees. At December 31, 2004, North East had outstanding
loans and commitments to fund new loans of $50,016,441, net of
allowance for loan losses and deferred fees. It is expected that
these requirements will be funded from the sources described
above.
The following table shows selected ratios for the period or at
the date indicated:
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Year Ended | |
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December 31, 2004 | |
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Average equity as a percentage of average assets:
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9.82 |
% |
Equity to total assets at end of period:
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9.85 |
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Return on average assets:
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(1.35 |
) |
Return on average equity:
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(13.79 |
) |
Non-interest expense to average assets:
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4.91 |
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Nonperforming loans and foreclosed real estate to total assets
at end of period:
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4.85 |
|
Results of Operations
The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated,
information regarding (i) the total dollar amount of
interest and dividend income of North East from interest-earning
assets and the corresponding average yields; (ii) the total
dollar amount of interest expense on interest-bearing
liabilities and the corresponding
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average cost; (iii) net interest income;
(iv) interest-rate spread and (v) net interest margin
(dollar amounts in thousands).
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2004 | |
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2003 | |
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Interest | |
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Interest | |
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Average | |
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and | |
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Average | |
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Average | |
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and | |
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Average | |
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Balance | |
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Dividends | |
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Yield/Rate | |
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Balance | |
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Dividends | |
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Yield/Rate | |
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Interest-earning assets:
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Loans
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$ |
51,876 |
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$ |
3,359 |
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6.48 |
% |
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$ |
56,781 |
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$ |
3,762 |
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6.63 |
% |
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Securities
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8,376 |
|
|
|
200 |
|
|
|
2.39 |
|
|
|
7,062 |
|
|
|
84 |
|
|
|
1.19 |
|
|
Other interest earning assets
|
|
|
7,213 |
|
|
|
83 |
|
|
|
1.15 |
|
|
|
7,965 |
|
|
|
93 |
|
|
|
1.16 |
|
|
|
Total interest earning assets
|
|
|
67,465 |
|
|
|
3,642 |
|
|
|
5.40 |
|
|
|
71,808 |
|
|
|
3,939 |
|
|
|
5.49 |
|
Non-interest-earning assets
|
|
|
7,858 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
9,008 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Assets:
|
|
|
75,323 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
80,816 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest-bearing liabilities:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Deposit accounts
|
|
|
22,118 |
|
|
|
80 |
|
|
|
.36 |
|
|
|
24,305 |
|
|
|
85 |
|
|
|
.35 |
|
|
Time deposits
|
|
|
31,951 |
|
|
|
656 |
|
|
|
2.05 |
|
|
|
35,256 |
|
|
|
855 |
|
|
|
2.43 |
|
|
Other borrowings
|
|
|
303 |
|
|
|
21 |
|
|
|
6.93 |
|
|
|
325 |
|
|
|
22 |
|
|
|
6.77 |
|
Total interest-bearing liabilities
|
|
|
54,372 |
|
|
|
757 |
|
|
|
1.39 |
|
|
|
59,886 |
|
|
|
962 |
|
|
|
1.61 |
|
|
Non-interest-bearing liabilities
|
|
|
13,554 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
12,250 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Stockholders equity
|
|
|
7,397 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
8,680 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total liabilities and stockholders equity
|
|
|
75,323 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
80,816 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net interest income
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2,885 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2,977 |
|
|
|
|
|
Interest-rate spread
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
4.01 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
3.88 |
|
Net interest margin
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
4.28 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
4.15 |
|
Ratio of average interest-earning assets to average
interest-bearing liabilities
|
|
|
1.24 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1.20 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest Income and Expense
Total interest income decreased to $3,641,714 for fiscal 2004
from $3,939,161 for fiscal 2003, and net interest income (after
provision for loan losses) decreased to $2,036,364 in 2004 from
$2,324,335 in 2003. Interest income on loans decreased to
$3,358,838 in 2004 due to a decrease in the total dollar amount
of loans outstanding and a steady decrease in interest rates.
The decrease in interest rates was consistent throughout the
banking industry. Taxable interest on investment securities
increased to $199,129 in 2004 due to the purchase of $6,000,000
of bonds issued by various U.S. Government Agencies.
Interest on other interest-earning assets decreased to $83,747
in 2004 from $100,116 due to the decrease in both the dollar
amount of these assets and the interest rates earned on these
types of assets.
Interest expense on deposit accounts decreased to $735,639 in
2004 from $939,795 in 2003. Interest expense on deposits
decreased primarily because of a decrease in the total dollar
amount of deposits and a steady decrease in interest rates. The
decrease in interest rates was generally consistent throughout
the banking industry.
61
Provision for Loan Losses
The provision for loan losses is charged to earnings to bring
the total allowance to a level deemed appropriate by management
and is based upon historical experience, the volume and type of
lending conducted by North East, industry standards, the amount
of nonperforming loans, general economic conditions,
particularly as they relate to North Easts market areas
and other factors related to the collectibility of North
Easts loan portfolio. The provision for fiscal 2004 and
2003 was $848,478 and $653,020, respectively.
Non-Interest Income
Non-interest income decreased to $642,567 for the 2004 fiscal
year from $734,546 for the 2003 fiscal year. The increase is
primarily due to a reduction in service charges on deposit
accounts caused by an overall decrease in both total deposits
and number of accounts. Also, North East Bank sold fewer loans
in 2004, resulting in a decrease in gains realized from loan
sales.
Non-Interest Expense
Total non-interest expense decreased to $3,699,303 for the 2004
fiscal year from $3,838,756 for the 2003 fiscal year, a decrease
of 3.6%. There were no primary or material factors attributable
to this minor shift.
Income Taxes
The income tax provision for the 2004 fiscal year was $0, an
effective rate of 0%, compared to $0, an effective rate of 0%,
for the comparable 2003 fiscal year. North East has loss
carry-forwards totaling approximately $770,000 that may be
offset against future taxable income. If not used, the
carry-forwards will expire in years 2023 and 2024.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
North East and its subsidiaries do not have any off-balance
sheet arrangements that have, or are reasonably likely to have,
a current or future effect on North Easts financial
condition, changes in financial condition, revenues or expenses,
results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or
capital resources that could be material to investors.
Contractual Obligations and Other Commercial
Commitments
The following table summarizes North Easts material
contractual obligations in effect at December 31, 2004, and
the timing and effect that such commitments are expected to have
on North Easts liquidity and capital requirements in
future periods:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Payments Due by Period | |
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
Less Than | |
|
|
|
More Than | |
|
|
Total | |
|
One Year | |
|
1-3 Years | |
|
3-5 Years | |
|
5 Years | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
Long-Term Debt Obligations:
|
|
$ |
297,000 |
|
|
$ |
10,000 |
|
|
$ |
23,000 |
|
|
$ |
27,000 |
|
|
$ |
237,000 |
|
Operating Lease Obligations:
|
|
|
85,000 |
|
|
|
22,000 |
|
|
|
44,000 |
|
|
|
19,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Contractual Obligations
|
|
$ |
382,000 |
|
|
$ |
32,000 |
|
|
$ |
67,000 |
|
|
$ |
46,000 |
|
|
$ |
237,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
62
CHANGES IN OR DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS
We have not had any disagreements with our accountants.
DESCRIPTION OF NORTH EAST COMMON STOCK
General. North East is authorized to issue
202,500 shares of common stock, no par value per share, of
which 145,168 shares were outstanding as of
December 31, 2004. North Easts common stock is traded
in the over-the-counter market under the symbol
NEBI. North East does not have a transfer agent.
North East does not have any shares of common stock reserved for
issuance under any plan or agreement. All outstanding shares of
North East common stock are validly issued, fully paid and
non-assessable.
Voting and Other Rights. The holders of North East common
stock are entitled to one vote per share, and except as
otherwise required by Pennsylvania law, a majority of the votes
cast with respect to a matter is sufficient to authorize action
upon routine matters. Directors are elected by our shareholders
at our annual meeting, on a staggered basis, for a four-year
term. In election of directors, shareholders do have the right
to cumulate their votes. See Comparison of Shareholder
Rights Amendment of Articles of Incorporation and
By-laws beginning on Page 71 and Comparison of
Shareholder Rights Vote Required for Extraordinary
Corporate Transactions beginning on Page 72. Holders
of North East common stock have a preemptive right to purchase
any shares issued by North East or any securities exchangeable
or convertible into such shares, or any warrants or other
instruments evidencing rights or options to subscribe for,
purchase, or otherwise acquire such shares.
Distributions. The holders of North East common stock are
entitled to receive such dividends or distributions as the North
East board of directors may declare out of funds legally
available for such payments. The payment of distributions by
North East is subject to the restrictions of Pennsylvania law
applicable to the declaration of distributions by a business
corporation, as well as rules and regulations set forth by the
FRB. Generally, a corporation may not authorize and make
distributions if, after giving effect thereto, it would be
unable to meet its debts as they become due in the usual course
of business or if the corporations total assets would be
less than the sum of its total liabilities plus the amount that
would be needed, if it were to be dissolved at the time of
distribution, to satisfy claims upon dissolution of shareholders
who have preferential rights superior to the rights of the
holders of its common stock. Additionally, as instructed by the
Federal Reserve Board, North East will not declare any
shareholder dividends without the prior approval of the Federal
Reserve Bank. Prior approval must be submitted at least
30 days before shareholder dividends are declared and will
be coordinated with the approval of North East Bank dividends by
the OCC, as discussed below. Stock dividends, if any are
declared, may be paid from authorized but unissued shares.
The ability of North East to pay dividends is affected by the
ability of North East Bank to pay dividends. North East Bank is
subject to a dividend restriction that generally limits the
amount of dividends that can be paid by a national bank. Prior
approval of the OCC is required if the total of all dividends
declared by a national bank in any calendar year exceeds net
profits, as defined for the year, combined with its retained net
profits for the two preceding calendar years less any required
transfers to surplus.
DESCRIPTION OF FNB CAPITAL STOCK
FNB Common Stock
General. FNB is authorized to issue
500,000,000 shares of common stock, par value
$0.01 per share, of which 56,293,407 shares were
outstanding as of June 30, 2005. FNB common stock is traded
on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol FNB.
The transfer agent and registrar for FNB common stock is
Registrar & Transfer Company.
As of June 30, 2005, 6,008,703 shares of FNB common
stock were reserved for issuance upon the exercise of
outstanding options. In addition, FNB has reserved
863,000 shares of common stock for issuance in connection
with the merger. After taking into account these reserved
shares, FNB will have approximately
63
436,834,890 shares of authorized but unissued common stock
available for issuance for other corporate purposes.
Voting and Other Rights. The holders of FNB common stock
are entitled to one vote per share, and in general a majority of
the votes cast with respect to a matter is sufficient to
authorize action upon routine matters. Directors are elected by
a plurality of votes cast, and each shareholder entitled to vote
in an election of directors is entitled to vote each share of
stock for as many persons as there are directors to be elected.
In elections of directors, shareholders do not have the right to
cumulate their votes. See Comparison of Shareholder
Rights Amendment of Articles of Incorporation and
By-laws beginning on Page 71 and Comparison of
Shareholder Rights Vote Required for Extraordinary
Corporate Transactions beginning on Page 72.
In the event of a liquidation, holders of FNB common stock are
entitled to receive pro rata any assets legally available for
distribution to shareholders with respect to shares held by
them, subject to any prior rights of the holders of any FNB
preferred stock then outstanding.
FNB common stock does not carry any preemptive rights,
redemption privileges, sinking fund privileges or conversion
rights. All outstanding shares of FNB common stock are, and the
shares of FNB common stock to be issued to our shareholders in
the merger will be, validly issued, fully paid and nonassessable.
Distributions. The holders of FNB common stock are
entitled to receive such dividends or distributions as the FNB
board of directors may declare out of funds legally available
for such payments. The payment of distributions by FNB is
subject to the restrictions of Florida law applicable to the
declaration of distributions by a business corporation. A
corporation generally may not authorize and make distributions
if, after giving effect thereto, it would be unable to meet its
debts as they become due in the usual course of business or if
the corporations total assets would be less than the sum
of its total liabilities plus the amount that would be needed,
if it were to be dissolved at the time of distribution, to
satisfy claims upon dissolution of shareholders who have
preferential rights superior to the rights of the holders of its
common stock. In addition, the payment of distributions to
shareholders is subject to any prior rights of any then
outstanding FNB preferred stock. Stock dividends, if any are
declared, may be paid from authorized but unissued shares.
The ability of FNB to pay distributions is affected by the
ability of its subsidiaries to pay dividends. The ability of
FNBs subsidiaries, as well as of FNB, to pay dividends in
the future is influenced by bank regulatory requirements and
capital guidelines.
FNB Preferred Stock
General. FNB is authorized to issue
20,000,000 shares of preferred stock, par value
$0.01 per share, of which no shares were outstanding as of
June 30, 2005. The FNB board of directors has the authority
to issue FNB preferred stock in one or more series and to fix
the dividend rights, dividend rates, liquidation preferences,
conversion rights, voting rights, rights and terms of
redemption, including sinking fund provisions, and the number of
shares constituting any such series, without any further action
by the shareholders of FNB unless such action is required by
applicable rules or regulations or by the terms of any other
outstanding series of FNB preferred stock. Any shares of FNB
preferred stock that may be issued may rank prior to shares of
FNB common stock as to payment of dividends and upon liquidation.
64
COMPARISON OF SHAREHOLDER RIGHTS
After the merger, you will become shareholders of FNB and your
rights will be governed by FNBs Articles of Incorporation,
FNBs By-laws and the Florida Business Corporations Act.
The following summary discusses differences between FNBs
Articles of Incorporation and By-laws and our Articles of
Incorporation and By-laws and the differences between the BCL
and the Florida Business Corporations Act. For information as to
how to get the full text of each document, see Where You
Can Find More Information beginning on
Page .
The following summary is not intended to be a complete statement
of the differences affecting the rights of our shareholders who
become FNB shareholders, but rather summarizes the more
significant differences affecting the rights of such
shareholders and certain important similarities. The summary is
qualified in its entirety by reference to the Articles of
Incorporation and By-laws of FNB, our Articles of Incorporation
and By-laws and applicable laws and regulations.
Removal of Directors; Filling Vacancies on the Board of
Directors
|
|
|
North East |
|
FNB |
|
|
|
Our By-laws provide that members of our board of directors may
be removed with or without a vote of the shareholders.
Pennsylvania law and our By-laws provide that vacancies on our
board of directors, including vacancies resulting from an
increase in the number of directors, shall be filled by a
majority vote of the remaining directors, though less than a
quorum, to serve until his or her successor is elected by the
shareholders. |
|
Under Florida law, unless the Articles of Incorporation of a
corporation provide otherwise, directors may be removed by the
corporations shareholders with or without cause; provided
that, if a director is elected by a voting group, only the
shareholders of that voting group may participate in the vote to
remove him or her. Article 6 of FNBs Articles of
Incorporation, however, provides that, subject to the rights of
holders of any preferred stock, any director or the entire board
of directors may be removed without cause by the affirmative
vote of the holders of at least 75% of the then outstanding
shares of FNB common stock. Florida law and FNBs By-laws
provide that vacancies on the FNB board of directors, including
vacancies resulting from an increase in the number of directors
or resulting from removal from office, may be filled by a
majority vote of the remaining directors, though less than a
quorum. |
Quorum of Shareholders
|
|
|
North East |
|
FNB |
|
|
|
Pennsylvania law and our By-laws provide that the holders of a
majority of votes entitled to be cast on a matter to be
considered, represented in person or by proxy, constitute a
quorum of that voting group for action on the matter.
Pennsylvania law and our By-laws further provide that, if a
meeting called for the election of directors is adjourned, the
shareholders who attend the resumption of the adjourned meeting,
although less than a quorum, shall nevertheless constitute a
quorum for the purpose of electing directors. |
|
FNBs By-laws and Florida law provide that the holders of a
majority of votes entitled to be cast on a matter to be
considered, represented in person or by proxy, constitute a
quorum of that voting group for action on the matter. FNBs
By-laws further provide that whenever the holders of any class
or series of shares are entitled to vote separately on a
specified item of business, the holders of a majority of the
votes of that class or series entitled to be cast, represented
in person or by proxy, shall constitute a quorum of such class
or series. |
65
Adjournment and Notice of Shareholder Meetings
|
|
|
North East |
|
FNB |
|
|
|
Pennsylvania law and our By-laws provide that any regular or
special meeting of shareholders may be adjourned for such
periods as may be directed by the shareholders present in person
or by proxy at the meeting who are entitled to vote at that
meeting. |
|
FNBs By-laws and Florida law provide that, if a quorum is
not present or represented at a shareholders meeting, the
shareholders present and entitled to vote at the meeting may
adjourn such meeting from time to time. |
Call of Special Meetings of Shareholders
|
|
|
North East |
|
FNB |
|
|
|
Our By-laws provide that special meetings of our shareholders
may be called at any time by the President, Board of Directors
or shareholders entitled to cast one-fifth of the votes at the
meeting. |
|
FNBs By-laws provide that special meetings of shareholders
may be called only by the chairman of the board, the president
or the secretary of FNB pursuant to a resolution or written
direction of at least 75% of the members of the FNB board or by
the holders of not less than 10% of the outstanding shares of
FNB. |
Shareholder Consent in Lieu of Meeting
|
|
|
North East |
|
FNB |
|
|
|
Pennsylvania law and our By-laws provide that any action that
may be taken at a meeting of the shareholders may be taken
without a meeting, if a consent or consents in writing setting
forth the action so taken shall be signed by all of the
shareholders who would be entitled to vote at a meeting for such
purpose and shall be filed with our secretary. |
|
Florida law permits any action that may be taken at a meeting of
the shareholders of FNB to be taken without a meeting, if, prior
or subsequent to the action, one or more written consents signed
by a majority the shareholders who would be entitled to vote at
a meeting for such purpose are delivered to FNB. |
Dissenters Rights
|
|
|
North East |
|
FNB |
|
|
|
Under Pennsylvania law, dissenters rights are generally
afforded to shareholders in the event of corporate actions
involving certain mergers, share exchanges, transfers of all or
substantially all of the assets of the corporation, as well as
certain other fundamental transactions in which the corporation
is not the acquiring corporation.
Under Pennsylvania law, dissenters rights generally are
denied to holders of shares that are listed on a national
securities exchange, quoted on the Nasdaq National Market or
held beneficially or of record by more than
2,000 shareholders when a plan of merger converts the
shares into shares of the acquiring, surviving, new or other
corporation, whether or not the shares of the acquiring,
surviving, new or other corporation are listed on the exchange
or privately held. |
|
Under Florida law, dissenters appraisal rights are
available in connection with corporate actions involving certain
mergers, share exchanges, sales or other dispositions of all or
substantially all of the property of the corporation other than
in the ordinary course of business, the approval of certain
control- share acquisitions and amendments of the Articles of
Incorporation that would materially and adversely affect the
rights or preferences of shares held by the dissenting
shareholders.
Under Florida law, appraisal rights generally are denied to
holder of shares listed on a national securities exchange or the
Nasdaq National Market and when the corporations shares
are held of record by at least 2,000 persons and such
outstanding shares have a market value of at least
$10 million, not counting the value of certain insider
shares. |
66
Derivative Actions
|
|
|
North East |
|
FNB |
|
|
|
Under Pennsylvania law, derivative actions may be brought by a
shareholder, even if the shareholder was not a shareholder at
the time of the alleged wrongdoing, if a court determines that
there is a strong prima facie case in favor of the claim and a
serious injustice will result without such action. |
|
Under Florida law, a derivative action may be brought only by a
person who was a shareholder of FNB at the time of the alleged
wrongdoing unless the person became a shareholder through
transfer by operation of law from one who was a shareholder at
the time of the alleged wrongdoing. |
Dividends and Distributions
|
|
|
North East |
|
FNB |
|
|
|
Subject to any restrictions in a corporations Articles of
Incorporation, Pennsylvania law generally provides that a
corporation may make distributions to its shareholders unless
after giving effect thereto (i) the corporation would not
be able to pay its debts as they become due in the usual course
of business, or (ii) the corporations total assets
would be less than the sum of its total liabilities plus the
amount that would be needed upon the dissolution of the
corporation to satisfy the preferential rights of shareholders
having superior preferential rights to those shareholders
receiving the distribution. Our Articles of Incorporation do not
contain any restrictions on the payment of dividends or the
making of distributions to shareholders. |
|
Subject to any restrictions in a corporations Articles of
Incorporation, Florida law generally provides that a corporation
may make distributions to its shareholders unless after giving
effect thereto (i) the corporation would not be able to pay
its debts as they become due in the usual course of business, or
(ii) the corporations total assets would be less than
the sum of its total liabilities plus the amount that would be
needed upon the dissolution of the corporation to satisfy the
preferential rights of shareholders having superior preferential
rights to those shareholders receiving the distribution.
FNBs Articles of Incorporation do not contain any
restrictions on the payment of dividends or the making of
distributions to shareholders. |
Classes of Stock With Preferential Rights
|
|
|
North East |
|
FNB |
|
|
|
We only have one authorized class of stock, common stock that
has no preferential rights. |
|
The Articles of Incorporation of FNB authorize it to issue
multiple classes of stock that may have rights preferential to
the FNB common stock to be received by North East shareholders
as a result of the merger. No such stock is currently
outstanding. Such preferential rights include rights to
preferential dividend rates compared to such rates for FNB
common stock, rights to prevent dividends being paid on the
common stock until dividends have been paid on the preferred
stock, rights to preferential payments upon any liquidation of
FNB, independent class voting rights with respect to certain
fundamental transactions and rights to convert shares of FNB
preferred stock into FNB common stock at a conversion ratio that
protects such preferred shareholders against a decline in the
price of FNB common stock by further diluting the common stock. |
67
Director Qualifications, Number and Term
|
|
|
North East |
|
FNB |
|
|
|
Our By-laws provide that our board of directors shall consist of
5 members divided into three classes, as equal in number as
possible, with each director serving a staggered four-year term.
Under Pennsylvania law and pursuant to our By-laws, a director
must be at least 18 years of age, and not have attained
their 65th birthday prior to election, but need not be a
resident of Pennsylvania or a shareholder. |
|
FNBs By-laws provide that the board of directors of FNB
shall consist of such number of directors as may be determined
by the board of directors of FNB, which number shall be not less
than 5 nor more than 25. FNBs By-laws further provide that
FNBs board of directors shall be divided into three
classes as equal in number as possible, with each director
having a staggered, three-year term. Under Florida law and
FNBs By-laws, a director need not be a resident of Florida
or a shareholder of FNB to qualify to serve as a director.
FNBs By-laws further provide that the directors must be at
least 21 years of age. |
Nomination of Directors
|
|
|
North East |
|
FNB |
|
|
|
Our By-laws provide that directors may be nominated by the Board
of Directors, or by a proxy committee appointed by the Board of
Directors, or by any shareholder entitled to vote in the
election of Directors generally may nominate one or more persons
for the election as directors at a meeting only if written
notice of such shareholders intent to make such nomination is
given 45 days in advance of an annual meeting, or, the
seventh day following notice of a special meeting. The notice of
a shareholders intention to nominate a director must
include, among other things:
the name and address of the nominating
shareholder;
a representation that the shareholder is a holder of
North East and intends to appear in person or by proxy at the
meeting to nominate the person or persons specified in the
notice;)
a description of all arrangements or understandings
between the shareholder and each nominee and any other person or
persons (naming such person or persons) pursuant to which the
nomination or nominations are to be made by the shareholder;
and
the written consent of each nominee to serve as a
director of North East if so elected.
The chairman of the meeting may refuse to acknowledge the
nomination of any person not made in compliance with the
foregoing procedure. |
|
FNBs By-laws provide that directors may be nominated for
election to FNBs board of directors by either a resolution
of the board of directors or by a shareholder of FNB. FNBs
By-laws provide that a shareholder may make nominations for
director by providing FNB with written notice of the
shareholders intention to nominate a director, which
written notice generally must be received not less than
14 days prior to the meeting of shareholders called for the
election of directors. The notice of a shareholders
intention to nominate a director must include, among other
things:
the name and address of the nominating
shareholder;
a representation that the shareholder is a holder of
record of FNB voting stock and intends to appear in person or by
proxy at the meeting to nominate the person or persons specified
in the notice;
information regarding each nominee as would have
been required under the SECs proxy rules;
a description of all arrangements or understandings
among the shareholder and each nominee pursuant to which the
nomination or nominations are to be made by the shareholder;
and
the written consent of each nominee to serve as a
director of FNB if so elected. |
68
Cumulative Voting
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North East |
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FNB |
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In an election of directors under cumulative voting, each share
of stock normally having one vote for each director to be
elected is entitled to a number of votes equal to the number of
directors to be elected times the number of shares held with the
right to distribute that number of votes among one or more
candidates. Under Pennsylvania law, cumulative voting in the
election of directors is available unless otherwise provided for
in the Articles of Incorporation of the corporation. We allow
cumulative voting in the election of directors in our By-laws
and in our Articles of Incorporation. |
|
Under Florida law, cumulative voting in the election of
directors is not available unless provided for in the Articles
of Incorporation of the corporation. FNB has not provided for
cumulative voting in its Articles of Incorporation. |
Indemnification of Officers and Directors
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North East |
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FNB |
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Pennsylvania law permits a corporation to indemnify its
directors and officers against expenses, judgments, fines and
amounts paid in settlement incurred by them in connection with
any pending, threatened or completed action or proceeding, and
permits such indemnification against expenses incurred in
connection with any pending, threatened or completed derivative
action, if the director or officer has acted in good faith and
in a manner he reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to
the best interests of the corporation and, with respect to any
criminal proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe his
conduct was unlawful. Pennsylvania law further provides that
expenses incurred in defending any action or proceeding may be
paid by the corporation in advance of the final disposition upon
receipt of an undertaking by or on behalf of the director or
officer to repay the amount if it is ultimately determined that
the director or officer is not entitled to be indemnified by the
corporation.
Under Pennsylvania law, the statutory provisions for
indemnification and advancement of expenses are non-exclusive
with respect to any other rights, such as contractual rights or
rights granted pursuant to a bylaw or by vote of shareholders or
disinterested directors, to which a person seeking
indemnification or advancement of expenses may be entitled. Such
rights may, for example, provide for indemnification against
judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement incurred by the
indemnified person in connection with derivative actions.
Pennsylvania law permits such derivative action indemnification
in any case except where the act or failure to act giving rise
to the claim for indemnification is determined by a court to
have constituted willful misconduct or recklessness. Our By-laws
also preclude indemnification where it has |
|
Florida law permits a corporation to indemnify a director or
officer who was or is a party to any threatened, pending or
completed action, suit or other type of proceeding other than an
action by or in the right of the corporation by reason of the
fact that he is or was a director or officer or is now serving
at the request of the corporation as a director or officer of
another entity against expenses, including attorneys fees,
judgments, fines, penalties and amounts paid in settlement
actually and reasonably incurred by him in connection with such
action, suit or proceeding. These indemnification rights apply
if the director or officer acted in good faith and in a manner
in which he reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the
best interests of the corporation and, with respect to a
criminal action or proceeding, had no reasonable cause to
believe his conduct was unlawful. In addition, under Florida
law, FNB may indemnify and hold harmless an officer or director
who is a party in an action by or in the right of the
corporation against expenses, including attorneys fees,
and certain amounts paid in settlement, actually and reasonably
incurred in connection with the defense or settlement of such
proceeding, including any appeal thereof. Such indemnification
shall be authorized if the director or officer has acted in good
faith and in a manner in which he reasonably believed to be in
or not opposed to the best interests of the corporation, except
indemnification is not authorized where there is an adjudication
of liability, unless a court determines, in view of all the
circumstances, that such person is fairly and reasonably
entitled to indemnity for such expenses.
Florida law further provides that indemnification against the
costs and expenses of defending any action is required to be
made to any officer or |
69
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North East |
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FNB |
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been adjudged liable to the Corporation for conduct of the
director or officer that constituted gross negligence, willful
misconduct, dereliction of duty, bad faith or recklessness.
Pennsylvania law permits us to purchase and maintain insurance
on behalf of our directors and officers against any liability
asserted against the director or officer and incurred in such
capacity, whether or not we would have the power to indemnify a
director or officer against such liability. Our Articles of
Incorporation further provide that our directors and officers
are entitled to be indemnified to the fullest extent permitted
by law.
|
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director who is successful in defending an action of the type
referred to in the immediately preceding paragraph. Except with
regard to the costs and expenses of successfully defending an
action as may be ordered by a court, indemnification as
described in the previous paragraph is only required to be made
to a director or officer if a determination is made that
indemnification is proper under the circumstances. Such
determination shall be made in accordance with the provisions of
Florida law.
Florida law further provides that expenses incurred in defending
any action or proceeding may be paid by the corporation in
advance of the final disposition upon receipt of an undertaking
by or on behalf of the director or officer to repay the amount
if it is ultimately determined that the director or officer is
not entitled to be indemnified by the corporation.
Under Florida law, the provisions for indemnification and
advancement of expenses are not exclusive. Accordingly, a
corporation may make any other or further indemnification or
advancement of expenses of any of its officers or directors,
both as to action in his official capacity and as to action in
another capacity while holding such office. Under Florida law,
indemnification or advancement of expenses, however, shall
generally not be made to or on behalf of any officer or director
if a judgment or other final adjudication establishes that his
actions or omissions were material to the cause of action so
adjudicated and constitute:
a violation of the criminal law;
a transaction from which the officer or director
derived an improper personal benefit;
an unlawful distribution; or
willful misconduct or a conscious disregard for the
best interests of the corporation.
Florida law and FNBs Articles of Incorporation permit FNB
to purchase and maintain insurance on behalf of any director or
officer of FNB against any liability asserted against the
director or officer and incurred in such capacity, whether or
not FNB would have the power to indemnify the director or
officer against such liability. FNBs Articles of
Incorporation further provide that its directors, officers and
any other person designated by the board of directors of FNB is
entitled to be indemnified to the fullest extent permitted by
law. |
70
Director Liability
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North East |
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FNB |
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Pennsylvania law and our By-laws include a provision limiting
the personal liability of directors for monetary damages for
actions taken as a director, other than as would constitute
criminal conduct or with respect to liability for nonpayment of
taxes, and except to the extent that the director has breached
or failed to perform his duties to the corporation and the
breach or failure to perform constitutes self-dealing, willful
misconduct or recklessness. |
|
Under Florida law, a director is not liable for monetary damages
for any statement, vote, decision or failure to act regarding
corporate management or policy, unless the director breached or
failed to perform his duties as a director and the
directors breach of, or failure to perform, those duties
constitutes a violation of criminal law, self-dealing, an
unlawful distribution, willful misconduct or recklessness.
FNBs By-laws contain a provision limiting the liability of
its directors to the fullest extent permitted by law. |
Amendment of Articles of Incorporation and By-laws
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North East |
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FNB |
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Pennsylvania law requires the affirmative vote of a majority of
the votes cast by all shareholders entitled to vote thereon to
amend a corporations Articles of Incorporation, provided
that shareholder approval is not required for certain
non-material amendments. Our Articles of Incorporation vest
power to amend our Articles of Incorporation in our
shareholders.
Under Pennsylvania law, the power to adopt, amend or repeal
By-laws may generally be vested, pursuant to the By-laws, in the
directors, with certain statutory exceptions and subject to the
power of the shareholders to change such action.
Pennsylvania law further provides that, unless the Articles of
Incorporation provide otherwise, the board of directors does not
have the authority to adopt or change a bylaw on any subject
that is committed expressly to the shareholders by statute,
other than on the subject shareholder quorum rules if the
corporation is a registered corporation such as us. Our By-laws
provide that our By-laws may be amended by a majority vote of
shareholders present at a regular or special meeting. |
|
In order to amend the Articles of Incorporation of a Florida
corporation, Florida law generally requires that, unless the
Articles of Incorporation provide for a greater vote, the votes
cast in favor of such an amendment must exceed the votes cast
against such an amendment at a meeting at which a quorum is
present; provided, however, that a majority of the outstanding
votes entitled to be cast on the amendment is required with
respect to amendments that would create dissenters rights
under Florida law. Further, under Florida law, shareholder
approval is not required for certain non-material amendments.
Under Florida law, a corporations By-laws may be amended
or repealed by the board of directors or shareholders; provided,
however, that the board may not amend or repeal the
corporations By-laws if the Articles of Incorporation
reserve such power to the shareholders, or the shareholders, in
amending or repealing the By-laws, expressly provide that the
board of directors may not amend or repeal the By-laws or a
particular bylaw provision. FNBs By-laws provide that they
may be altered or amended and new By-laws adopted by the
affirmative vote of at least 75% of the members of FNBs
board of directors or by the affirmative vote of the holders of
at least 75% of the outstanding shares entitled to vote thereon. |
71
Vote Required for Extraordinary Corporation Transactions
|
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North East |
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FNB |
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Under Pennsylvania law and our Articles of Incorporation, a
merger, consolidation, share exchange, dissolution or sale of
substantially all of a corporations assets other than in
the ordinary course of business must be approved by the
affirmative vote of a majority of the votes cast by all
shareholders entitled to vote thereon. Except as otherwise
provided by the By-laws of a corporation, the shareholders of a
corporation do not have to approve a board of directors-approved
plan of merger if, among other situations, immediately prior to
the transaction, another corporation that is a party to the
transaction directly or indirectly owns 80% or more of the
outstanding shares of each class of the constituent corporation,
or if
the surviving or new corporation is a business
corporation incorporated in Pennsylvania with Articles of
Incorporation that are identical to the Articles of
Incorporation of the merged corporation, except for changes
permitted by a board of directors without shareholder approval
under Pennsylvania law;
each share of the merged corporation outstanding
immediately prior to the effective date of the merger is to
continue to be outstanding or will be converted into an
identical share of the surviving or new corporation after the
effective date of the merger; and
the shareholders of the merged corporation are to
hold, in the aggregate, shares of the surviving or new
corporation to be outstanding immediately after effectiveness of
the plan of merger at least a majority of the votes entitled to
be cast generally for the election of directors. |
|
Under Florida law, generally, a merger, consolidation, share
exchange, dissolution or sale of substantially all of a
corporations assets other than in the ordinary course of
business must be approved by the affirmative vote of the holders
of a majority of the shares entitled to vote thereon unless the
corporations Articles of Incorporation require a higher
vote. Florida law further provides that, unless required by its
Articles of Incorporation, the shareholders approval of a plan
of merger if is not required if:
the Articles of Incorporation of the surviving
corporation will not differ (except for certain minor amendments
approved by the board of directors as provided by Florida law)
from its articles before the merger; and
each shareholder of the surviving corporation whose
shares were outstanding immediately prior to the effective date
of the merger will hold the same number of shares, with
identical designations, preferences, limitations and relative
rights, immediately after the merger.
FNBs Articles of Incorporation require an affirmative vote
of the holders of at least 75% of the outstanding shares of FNB
common stock entitled to vote to approve a merger, consolidation
or sale, lease, exchange or other disposition, in a single
transaction or series of related transactions, of all or
substantially all or a substantial part of the properties or
assets of FNB, unless the board of directors of FNB has approved
and recommended the transaction prior to the consummation
thereof. |
Interested Shareholder Transactions
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North East |
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FNB |
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We are not a registered company and thus Pennsylvanias
interested shareholder law (Section 2538 of Subchapter D
and Subchapter F of Chapter 25 of the Pennsylvania Business
Corporation Law) does not apply to us. |
|
Florida law contains a number of provisions that require
supermajority approval for certain affiliate transactions. Under
Florida law, if any person who together with his or her
affiliates and associates beneficially owns 10% or more of any
voting stock of the corporation (an Interested
Person) is a party to any merger, consolidation,
disposition of all or a substantial part of the assets of the
corporation or a subsidiary of the corporation, or exchange of
securities requiring shareholder approval (a Business
Combination), such transaction shall be approved by the
affirmative vote of the holders of two-thirds of the voting
shares other than the shares beneficially owned by the
Interested Person; provided, that such approval is not required
if |
72
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North East |
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FNB |
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(1) the Interested Person transaction has been approved by
a majority of the disinterested directors; (2) the
corporation has not had more than 300 shareholders of
record at any time during the three years preceding the date of
the transactions announcement; (3) the Interested
Person has been the beneficial owner of at least 80% of the
corporations outstanding voting shares for at least five
years preceding the date of the transactions announcement;
(4) the Interested Person is the beneficial owner of at
least 90% of the outstanding voting shares of the corporation,
exclusive of shares acquired directly from the corporation in a
transaction not approved by a majority of the disinterested
directors; (5) the corporation is an investment company
registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 or
(6) the consideration to be received by holders of the
stock of the corporation meets certain minimum levels determined
by a formula under Section 607.0901(4)(f) of the Florida
Business Corporations Act. |
Fiduciary Duty
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North East |
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FNB |
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Under Pennsylvania law and pursuant to our By-laws, a director
shall perform his duties as a director in good faith, in a
manner he reasonably believes to be in the best interests of the
corporation and with such care, including reasonable inquiry,
skill and diligence, as a person of ordinary prudence would use
under similar circumstances, and shall be entitled in performing
his duties to rely in good faith on information, opinions,
reports or statements, including financial statements and other
financial data, prepared or presented by: (1) one or more
officers or employees of the corporation whom the director
reasonably believes to be reliable and competent in the matters
presented; (2) counsel, public accountants or other persons
as to matters which the director reasonably believes to be
within the professional or expert competence of such person or
(3) a committee of the board upon which he does not serve,
as to matters within its designated authority, which committee
the director reasonably believes to merit confidence.
Pennsylvania law further provides that a director may, in
considering the best interests of a corporation, consider
(1) the effects of any action on shareholders, employees,
suppliers, customers and creditors of the corporation, and upon
communities in which offices or other facilities of the
corporation are located, (2) the short-term and long-term
interests of the corporation, including the possibility that the
best |
|
FNBs Articles of Incorporation provide that the board of
directors of FNB, in evaluating a proposal for an extraordinary
corporate transaction, shall consider all relevant factors,
including, without limitation, the long-term prospects and
interests of the corporation and its shareholders, the social,
economic, legal or other effects of any action on the employees,
suppliers and customers of the corporation and its subsidiaries,
the communities and societies in which FNB and its subsidiaries
operate, and the economy of the state and the nation.
FNBs Articles of Incorporation further provide that, if
the board of directors of FNB determines that such a proposal
should be rejected, it may take any lawful action to accomplish
its purpose.
Under Florida law, a director is required to discharge his
duties in good faith, with the care an ordinarily prudent person
in a like position would exercise under similar circumstances
and in a manner reasonably believed to be in the best interests
of the corporation. In discharging his duties, a director is
entitled to rely on: (1) information, opinions, reports, or
statements, including financial statements and other financial
data, if presented or prepared by officers or employees of the
corporation whom the director reasonably believes to be reliable
and competent in the matters presented; (2) legal counsel,
public |
73
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North East |
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FNB |
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interests of the corporation may be served by the continued
independence of the corporation, (3) the resources, intent
and conduct of any person seeking to acquire control of the
corporation and (4) all other pertinent factors. Our
By-laws also permit a director to consider the effects of any
action upon employees, suppliers and customers of the
corporation and upon communities in which offices or other
establishments of the corporation are located and all other
pertinent factors. Our By-laws incorporate by reference the
standard of care set forth under Pennsylvania law.
|
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accountants or other persons as to matters the director
reasonably believes are within the persons professional or
expert competence or (3) a committee of the Board of which
the director is not a member if the director reasonably believes
the committee merits confidence. |
Provisions with Possible Anti-Takeover Effects
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North East |
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FNB |
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Pennsylvania law permits an amendment to the corporations
Articles of Incorporation or other corporate action, if approved
by shareholders, to provide mandatory special treatment for
specified groups of nonconsenting shareholders of the same
class. Pennsylvania law also provides that directors may, in
discharging their duties, consider the interests of a number of
different constituencies, including shareholders, employees,
suppliers, customers, creditors and the communities in which the
corporation is located. Directors are not required to consider
the interests of shareholders to a greater degree than other
constituencies interests. Pennsylvania law expressly
provides that directors do not violate their fiduciary duties
solely by relying on poison pills or the anti-takeover
provisions of Pennsylvania law.
We are not a registered corporation and thus the anti-takeover
provisions of Chapter 25 of the Pennsylvania Business
Corporation Law do not apply to us. |
|
FNB is subject to statutory anti-takeover provisions
under Florida law. Section 607.0902 of the Florida Business
Corporations Act restricts the voting rights of certain shares
of a corporations stock when those shares are acquired by
a party who, by such acquisition, would control at least 20% of
all voting rights of the corporations issued and
outstanding stock. The statute provides that the acquired shares
(the control shares) will, upon such acquisition,
cease to have any voting rights. The acquiring party may,
however, petition the corporation to have voting rights
re-assigned to the control shares by way of an acquiring
persons statement submitted to the corporation in
compliance with the requirements of the statute. Upon receipt of
such request, the corporation must submit, for shareholder
approval, such request. Voting rights may be reassigned to the
control shares by a resolution of a majority of the
corporations shareholders for each class and series of
stock, with the control shares not voting.
Florida law further provides that a corporation may, by
amendment to its Articles of Incorporation or By-laws, provide
that, if the party acquiring the control shares does not submit
an acquiring persons statement in accordance with the
statute, the corporation may redeem the control shares at any
time during the period ending 60 days after the acquisition
of control shares. If the acquiring party files an acquiring
persons statement, the control shares are not subject to
redemption by the corporation unless the shareholders, acting on
the acquiring partys request for re-assignment, deny full
voting rights to the control shares. Neither FNBs Articles
of Incorporation nor its By-laws have been amended to include
such a provision.
The statute does not alter the voting rights of any stock of the
corporation acquired in certain specified transactions. |
74
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North East |
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FNB |
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In addition, there are various provisions in FNBs Articles
of Incorporation and By-laws that may serve as anti-takeover
protections including:
the ability of the board of directors of FNB to fill
vacancies resulting from an increase in the number of
directors;
the supermajority voting requirements for certain
corporate transactions;
the broad range of factors that the board of
directors of FNB may consider in evaluating an unsolicited offer
including a tender offer proposal; and
provisions in FNBs Articles of Incorporation
which authorize the board of directors of FNB, without further
shareholder action, to issue from time to time, up to
20,000,000 shares of FNB preferred stock. The board of
directors of FNB is empowered to divide any and all of the
shares of the FNB preferred stock into series and to fix and
determine the relative rights and preferences of the shares of
any series so established.
The anti-takeover provisions of Florida law and
FNBs Articles of Incorporation and By-laws may have the
effect of deterring merger proposals, tender offers or other
attempts to effect changes in control of FNB that are not
negotiated with and approved by the board of directors of FNB.
FNB is not aware of any effort or intent to gain control of FNB
or any effort to organize a proxy contest or to accumulate
shares of FNB. |
75
COMPARATIVE MARKET PRICES AND DIVIDENDS
FNB common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange.
Prices for our common stock are reported by the National
Quotation Bureau, Inc. The following table sets forth:
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the high and low trading prices of shares of FNB common stock as
reported on the New York Stock Exchange since December 17,
2003 and prior thereto on the Nasdaq Stock Market, as adjusted
to reflect a 5% stock dividends declared on April 28, 2003; |
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the high and low trading prices of shares of our common stock as
reported by the National Quotation Bureau, Inc. These quotations
reflect inter-dealer prices without retail markup, markdown or
commission and may not necessarily represent actual
transactions. In each case, this information is based on
published sources; and |
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quarterly cash dividends paid per share by FNB and us for the
periods indicated. |
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FNB Common Stock(1) | |
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North East Common Stock | |
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High | |
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Low | |
|
Dividend | |
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High | |
|
Low | |
|
Dividend | |
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| |
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| |
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| |
|
| |
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| |
|
| |
2003:
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|
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|
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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|
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First quarter
|
|
$ |
27.62 |
|
|
$ |
25.52 |
|
|
$ |
.21 |
|
|
$ |
45.80 |
|
|
$ |
45.10 |
|
|
$ |
.10 |
|
Second quarter
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|
|
31.04 |
|
|
|
27.20 |
|
|
|
.24 |
|
|
|
46.75 |
|
|
|
44.50 |
|
|
|
|
|
Third quarter
|
|
|
35.08 |
|
|
|
29.35 |
|
|
|
.25 |
|
|
|
49.25 |
|
|
|
46.00 |
|
|
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Fourth quarter
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|
|
35.48 |
|
|
|
31.68 |
|
|
|
.24 |
|
|
|
50.00 |
|
|
|
48.75 |
|
|
|
|
|
2004:
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
First quarter
|
|
|
22.79 |
|
|
|
18.79 |
|
|
|
.23 |
|
|
|
54.00 |
|
|
|
50.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
Second quarter
|
|
|
22.63 |
|
|
|
18.80 |
|
|
|
.23 |
|
|
|
52.75 |
|
|
|
49.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
Third quarter
|
|
|
20.50 |
|
|
|
19.91 |
|
|
|
.23 |
|
|
|
51.25 |
|
|
|
49.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
Fourth quarter
|
|
|
22.82 |
|
|
|
19.88 |
|
|
|
.23 |
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|
|
52.00 |
|
|
|
50.00 |
|
|
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|
2005:
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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|
|
|
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|
|
|
First quarter
|
|
|
20.80 |
|
|
|
18.55 |
|
|
|
.23 |
|
|
|
52.00 |
|
|
|
51.15 |
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Second quarter
|
|
|
19.85 |
|
|
|
18.00 |
|
|
|
.23 |
|
|
|
104.50 |
|
|
|
90.00 |
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|
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Third quarter (through August 11, 2005)
|
|
|
21.00 |
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|
|
18.30 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
106.75 |
|
|
|
104.25 |
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|
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|
(1) |
On January 1, 2004, FNB distributed one share of First
National Bankshares of Florida, Inc., which until that date was
a wholly owned subsidiary of FNB, for each share held of FNB,
and the prices of FNB common stock since January 1, 2004
reflect that distribution. |
You are advised to obtain current market quotations for FNB
common stock.
BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP OF NORTH EAST STOCK
The following table sets forth information pertaining to the
beneficial ownership of the outstanding shares of our common
stock as of June 15, 2005 by: (1) persons known to us
to own more than five percent of the outstanding shares of our
common stock, (2) each director and (3) our directors
and executive officers as a group. The information contained
herein has been obtained from our records and from information
furnished
76
to us by each individual. We know of no person who owns,
beneficially or of record, either individually or with
associates, more than five percent of our common stock, except
as set forth below.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Amount and Nature of | |
|
Percent of | |
Name of Individual or Identity of Group |
|
Beneficial Ownership(1)(2) | |
|
Class(3) | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
5% or Greater Holders:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Miriam I. OLeary North East, PA
|
|
|
8,100 |
|
|
|
5.58 |
% |
CEDE & Co. New York, NY
|
|
|
78,940 |
|
|
|
54.38 |
% |
James S. Bryan North East, PA
|
|
|
19,710 |
(4) |
|
|
13.58 |
% |
Directors and Executive Officers:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
George F.S. Bennett, Sr.
|
|
|
100 |
|
|
|
|
|
James S. Bryan
|
|
|
19,710 |
(4) |
|
|
13.58 |
% |
Jerry E. Cass
|
|
|
260 |
|
|
|
|
|
Martin C. Haas
|
|
|
3,899 |
|
|
|
2.69 |
% |
David B. Hartman
|
|
|
1,390 |
|
|
|
|
|
Ann H. Neckers
|
|
|
100 |
|
|
|
|
|
Douglas C. Sceiford
|
|
|
100 |
|
|
|
|
|
Louis I. Sherwood
|
|
|
375 |
|
|
|
|
|
All Officers and Directors as a group (8 persons)
|
|
|
25,934 |
|
|
|
17.86 |
% |
|
|
(1) |
Information furnished by our directors and officers. |
|
(2) |
The securities beneficially owned by an individual
are determined in accordance with the definition of
beneficial ownership set forth in the General Rules
and Regulations of the SEC and may include securities owned by
or for the individuals spouse and minor children and any
other relative who has the same home, as well as securities to
which the individual has or shares voting or investment power.
Beneficial ownership may be disclaimed as to certain of the
securities. Except as otherwise indicated, the address for each
of the following persons is our principal corporate address. |
|
(3) |
Less than 1% unless otherwise indicated. |
|
(4) |
The shares noted for Mr. Bryan include 16,500 shares
owned by the Orris C. and Beatrice Dewey Hirtzel Foundation,
North East, Pennsylvania. Mr. Bryan is a director and
officer of the Foundation and has the right to vote the shares
in accordance with the instructions of the Foundations
Board of Trustees. |
PROPOSAL NO. 2
ADJOURNMENT PROPOSAL
In the event sufficient votes are not present at our special
meeting to constitute a quorum or approve the merger proposal,
the merger proposal cannot be approved unless our special
meeting is adjourned in order to permit further solicitation of
proxies. In order to allow shares present in person or by proxy
at our special meeting to vote for the adjournment of our
special meeting, if necessary, we are submitting an adjournment
of our special meeting to our shareholders as a separate matter
for their consideration. Properly executed proxies will be voted
in favor of the adjournment proposal, unless otherwise indicated
on the proxy. If the adjournment proposal is approved, no notice
of the time and place of the adjourned meeting is required to be
given to shareholders other than an announcement of the time and
place that is given at the meeting.
Recommendation of our Board of Directors
Our board of directors recommends that you vote FOR
the approval of the adjournment proposal.
LEGAL MATTERS
The validity of the FNB common stock being registered in
connection with the merger has been passed upon for FNB by Duane
Morris LLP, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Duane Morris LLP and
Buchanan Ingersoll
77
PC will deliver their opinions to FNB and North East,
respectively, as to certain federal income tax consequences of
the merger. See Material Federal Income Tax Consequences
of the Merger beginning on
Page .
EXPERTS
The consolidated financial statements of FNB and subsidiaries
appearing in FNBs Annual Report (Form 10-K/A) for the
year ended December 31, 2004, and FNB managements
assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over
financial reporting as of December 31, 2004 included
therein, have been audited by Ernst & Young LLP,
independent registered public accounting firm, as set forth in
their report thereon, included therein and incorporated herein
by reference. Such consolidated financial statements and
managements assessment are incorporated herein by
reference in reliance upon such reports given on the authority
of such firm as experts in accounting and auditing.
With respect to the unaudited condensed consolidated interim
financial information of FNB for the three and six-month periods
ended March 31, 2005 and March 31, 2004 and
June 30, 2005 and June 30, 2004, respectively,
incorporated by reference in this proxy statement/prospectus,
Ernst & Young LLP reported that they have applied
limited procedures in accordance with professional standards for
a review of such information. However, their separate reports
dated May 5, 2005 and August 4, 2005, included in
FNBs Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarters
ended March 31, 2005 and June 30, 2005, respectively,
and incorporated by reference herein, states that they did not
audit and they do not express an opinion on that interim
financial information. Accordingly, the degree of reliance on
their report on such information should be restricted in light
of the limited nature of the review procedures applied.
Ernst & Young LLP is not subject to the liability
provisions of Section 11 of the Securities Act for their
report on the unaudited interim financial information because
that report is not a report or a part of
the registration statement prepared or certified by
Ernst & Young LLP within the meaning of Sections 7
and 11 of the Securities Act.
The consolidated financial statements of North East and
subsidiaries for the year ended December 31, 2004 appearing
elsewhere herein have been audited by Parente Randolph, LLC,
independent registered public accounting firm, as set forth in
their report thereon included herein. Such consolidated
financial statements are included herein by reference in
reliance upon such report given on the authority of such firm as
experts in accounting and auditing.
OTHER MATTERS
As of the date of this proxy statement/prospectus, we do not
know of any matters that will be presented for consideration at
our special meeting other than the approval of the merger
proposal and the adjournment proposal. However, if any other
matters shall properly come before our special meeting or any
adjournment, postponement or continuation thereof and be voted
upon, the enclosed proxies shall be deemed to confer
discretionary authority on the individuals named as proxies
therein to vote the shares represented by such proxies as to any
such matters.
No person is authorized to give any information or make any
representation other than those contained or incorporated by
reference in this proxy statement/prospectus, and, if given or
made, such information or representation should not be relied
upon as having been authorized by FNB or us.
This proxy statement/prospectus does not constitute an offer to
exchange or sell, or a solicitation of an offer to exchange or
purchase, the FNB common stock offered by this proxy
statement/prospectus, nor does it constitute the solicitation of
a proxy, in any jurisdiction in which such offer or solicitation
is not authorized or to or from any person to whom it is
unlawful to make such offer or solicitation.
The information contained in this proxy statement/prospectus
speaks as of the date hereof unless otherwise specifically
indicated. The delivery of this proxy statement/prospectus shall
not, under any circumstances, create any implication that there
has been no change in the affairs of North East or FNB since the
date of this proxy statement/prospectus or that the information
in this proxy statement/prospectus or in
78
the documents incorporated by reference in this proxy
statement/prospectus is correct at any time subsequent to that
date.
This proxy statement/prospectus does not cover any resales of
the FNB common stock offered hereby to be received by
shareholders of North East deemed to be affiliates
of North East or FNB upon the consummation of the merger. No
person is authorized to make use of this proxy
statement/prospectus in connection with any such resales.
WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION
FNB files reports, proxy statements and other information with
the SEC under the Exchange Act. You may read and copy any
reports, statements or other information filed by FNB at the
SECs public reference room at 450 Fifth Street, N.W.,
Washington D.C. 20549. You may call the SEC at
1-800-SEC-0330 for further information on the public reference
rooms. FNBs SEC filings are also available to the public
from commercial document retrieval services and at the web site
maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov.
FNB filed a registration statement on Form S-4 to register
with the SEC under the Securities Act the issuance of FNB common
stock to North East shareholders in the merger. This proxy
statement/prospectus is a part of that registration statement
and constitutes a prospectus of FNB and a proxy statement of
North East for our special meeting. As allowed by the SEC rules,
this proxy statement/prospectus does not contain all the
information contained in the registration statement.
The SEC allows the incorporation by reference of
information into this proxy statement/prospectus, which means
that FNB can disclose important information to you by referring
you to another document filed separately with the SEC by FNB.
The information incorporated by reference is deemed to be part
of this proxy statement/prospectus, except for any information
that is superseded by information in this proxy
statement/prospectus. This proxy statement/prospectus
incorporates by reference the documents set forth below that FNB
have previously filed with the SEC. These documents contain
important information about FNB.
The following documents previously filed with the SEC by FNB
(SEC File No. 001-31940) are incorporated by reference into
this proxy statement/prospectus:
FNBs Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended
December 31, 2004, as amended on Form 10-K/A;
FNBs Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarters
ended March 31, 2005 and June 30, 2005; and
FNBs Current Reports on Form 8-K filed
January 11, 2005, January 20, 2005, February 24,
2005, April 12, 2005, April 21, 2005, April 25,
2005 and July 21, 2005.
The description of FNB common stock contained in the FNB
registration statement filed pursuant to Section 12 of the
Exchange Act, and any amendment or report filed for the purpose
of updating such description.
FNB further incorporates by reference any additional documents
that it files with the SEC under Sections 13(a),
13(c), 14, or 15(d) of the Exchange Act between the date of
this proxy statement/prospectus and the date of the North East
special meeting. These documents include periodic reports such
as Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on
Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K, as well as
proxy statements.
If you would like to receive a copy of any of the documents
incorporated by reference, please contact FNB at the address or
telephone number listed under the heading Additional
Information.
79
NORTH EAST BANCSHARES, INC.
INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Page | |
|
|
| |
Independent Auditors Report
|
|
|
F-2 |
|
Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2004
|
|
|
F-3 |
|
Consolidated Statement of Income for the Year Ended
December 31, 2004
|
|
|
F-4 |
|
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Stockholders Equity
for the Year Ended December 31, 2004
|
|
|
F-5 |
|
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows for the Year Ended
December 31, 2004
|
|
|
F-6 |
|
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
|
|
|
F-7 |
|
F-1
Independent Auditors Report
Board of Directors and Stockholders
North East Bancshares, Inc.:
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of
North East Bancshares, Inc. and subsidiaries as of
December 31, 2004, and the related consolidated statements
of income, changes in stockholders equity, and cash flows
for the year then ended. These consolidated financial statements
are the responsibility of the Corporations management. Our
responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated
financial statements based on our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with auditing standards
generally accepted in the United States of America. Those
standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are
free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a
test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in
the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the
accounting principles used and significant estimates made by
management, as well as evaluating the overall financial
statement presentation. We believe that our audit provides a
reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the 2004 consolidated financial statements
referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the
financial position of North East Bancshares, Inc. and
subsidiaries as of December 31, 2004, and the results of
their operations and their cash flows for the year then ended in
conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the
United States of America.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
February 4, 2005
F-2
NORTH EAST BANCSHARES, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
DECEMBER 31, 2004
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
ASSETS |
ASSETS:
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash and due from banks
|
|
$ |
1,957,407 |
|
|
Federal funds sold
|
|
|
579,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash and cash equivalents
|
|
|
2,536,407 |
|
|
Interest bearing deposits in other banks
|
|
|
116,887 |
|
|
Investment securities available-for-sale
|
|
|
8,646,985 |
|
|
Loans, net
|
|
|
50,016,441 |
|
|
Premises and equipment
|
|
|
5,512,182 |
|
|
Leased equipment
|
|
|
121,692 |
|
|
Accrued interest and other assets
|
|
|
1,727,721 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
TOTAL
|
|
$ |
68,678,315 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS EQUITY |
LIABILITIES:
|
|
|
|
|
|
Deposits:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Non-interest-bearing demand
|
|
$ |
13,840,900 |
|
|
|
Interest-bearing demand
|
|
|
9,569,104 |
|
|
|
Money market
|
|
|
2,919,802 |
|
|
|
Savings
|
|
|
7,000,365 |
|
|
|
Time
|
|
|
28,105,944 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total deposits
|
|
|
61,436,115 |
|
|
Borrowed funds
|
|
|
297,551 |
|
|
Accrued interest and other liabilities
|
|
|
121,418 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total liabilities
|
|
|
61,855,084 |
|
|
|
|
|
STOCKHOLDERS EQUITY:
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common stock, no par value; 202,500 shares authorized,
145,468 shares issued
|
|
|
1,161,680 |
|
|
Retained earnings
|
|
|
5,681,047 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
6,842,727 |
|
|
Treasury stock, at cost (300 shares)
|
|
|
(4,000 |
) |
|
Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income
|
|
|
(15,496 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total stockholders equity
|
|
|
6,823,231 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
TOTAL
|
|
$ |
68,678,315 |
|
|
|
|
|
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
F-3
NORTH EAST BANCSHARES, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2004
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
INTEREST INCOME:
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest and fees on loans
|
|
$ |
3,358,838 |
|
|
Interest-bearing deposits in other banks
|
|
|
2,978 |
|
|
Federal funds sold
|
|
|
80,109 |
|
|
Investment securities:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Taxable interest
|
|
|
199,129 |
|
|
|
Tax-exempt interest
|
|
|
660 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total interest income
|
|
|
3,641,714 |
|
|
|
|
|
INTEREST EXPENSE:
|
|
|
|
|
|
Deposits
|
|
|
735,639 |
|
|
Other borrowed funds
|
|
|
21,233 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total interest expense
|
|
|
756,872 |
|
|
|
|
|
NET INTEREST INCOME
|
|
|
2,884,842 |
|
PROVISION FOR LOAN LOSSES
|
|
|
848,478 |
|
|
|
|
|
NET INTEREST INCOME AFTER PROVISION FOR LOAN LOSSES
|
|
|
2,036,364 |
|
|
|
|
|
NONINTEREST INCOME:
|
|
|
|
|
|
Service charges
|
|
|
363,859 |
|
|
Gains on sales of loans, net
|
|
|
5,804 |
|
|
Other income
|
|
|
272,904 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total noninterest income
|
|
|
642,567 |
|
|
|
|
|
NONINTEREST EXPENSE:
|
|
|
|
|
|
Salaries and employee benefits
|
|
|
1,823,836 |
|
|
Occupancy expense
|
|
|
327,834 |
|
|
Office furnishing, equipment, fees, and data processing
|
|
|
467,345 |
|
|
Other expense
|
|
|
1,080,288 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total noninterest expense
|
|
|
3,699,303 |
|
|
|
|
|
NET LOSS
|
|
$ |
(1,020,372 |
) |
|
|
|
|
LOSS PER SHARE
|
|
$ |
(7.03 |
) |
|
|
|
|
AVERAGE SHARES OUTSTANDING
|
|
|
145,168 |
|
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
F-4
NORTH EAST BANCSHARES, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS
EQUITY
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2004
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accumulated | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other | |
|
Total | |
|
|
|
|
Common | |
|
Retained | |
|
Treasury | |
|
Comprehensive | |
|
Stockholders | |
|
Comprehensive | |
|
|
Stock | |
|
Earnings | |
|
Stock | |
|
Income (Loss) | |
|
Equity | |
|
Loss | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
Balance, December 31, 2003
|
|
$ |
1,161,680 |
|
|
$ |
6,701,419 |
|
|
$ |
(4,000 |
) |
|
$ |
2,561 |
|
|
$ |
7,861,660 |
|
|
|
|
|
Comprehensive loss:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net loss
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1,020,372 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1,020,372 |
) |
|
$ |
(1,020,372 |
) |
|
Net unrealized loss on securities available for sale, net of tax
benefit of $9,302
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(18,057 |
) |
|
|
(18,057 |
) |
|
|
(18,057 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Comprehensive loss
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
(1,038,429 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Balance, December 31, 2004
|
|
$ |
1,161,680 |
|
|
$ |
5,681,047 |
|
|
$ |
(4,000 |
) |
|
$ |
(15,496 |
) |
|
$ |
6,823,231 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
F-5
NORTH EAST BANCSHARES, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2004
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net loss
|
|
$ |
(1,020,372 |
) |
|
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by
operating activities:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Depreciation, amortization, and accretion
|
|
|
434,174 |
|
|
|
Proceeds from the sale of loans
|
|
|
901,337 |
|
|
|
Originations of loans held for sale
|
|
|
(895,533 |
) |
|
|
Gain on sales of loans, net
|
|
|
(5,804 |
) |
|
|
Gain on sales of premises and equipment
|
|
|
(8 |
) |
|
|
Gain (loss) on sales of other real estate owned
|
|
|
22,961 |
|
|
|
Provision for loan losses
|
|
|
848,478 |
|
|
|
Increase in accrued interest receivable
|
|
|
(109,967 |
) |
|
|
Decrease in accrued interest payable
|
|
|
(41,796 |
) |
|
|
Deferred income taxes
|
|
|
(59,923 |
) |
|
|
Deferred tax asset valuation allowance
|
|
|
59,923 |
|
|
|
Other, net
|
|
|
94,194 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net cash provided by operating activities
|
|
|
227,664 |
|
|
|
|
|
INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net change in interest-bearing deposits in bank
|
|
|
227,981 |
|
|
Investment securities available for sale:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Proceeds from maturities
|
|
|
55,125,000 |
|
|
|
Purchases
|
|
|
(54,620,092 |
) |
|
Decrease in loans, net
|
|
|
1,019,017 |
|
|
Purchases of premises and equipment
|
|
|
(175,829 |
) |
|
Proceeds from sales of other real estate owned
|
|
|
450,228 |
|
|
Purchases of equipment leased for customers
|
|
|
(44,113 |
) |
|
Proceeds from sale of leased equipment
|
|
|
724 |
|
|
Decrease in Federal Home Loan Bank stock
|
|
|
(400 |
) |
|
Proceeds from the sale of premises and equipment
|
|
|
2,200 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net cash provided by investing activities
|
|
|
1,984,716 |
|
|
|
|
|
FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net decrease in deposits
|
|
|
(11,677,761 |
) |
|
Principal payments on other borrowed funds
|
|
|
(9,752 |
) |
|
Cash dividends
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net cash used in financing activities
|
|
|
(11,687,513 |
) |
|
|
|
|
DECREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
|
|
|
(9,475,133 |
) |
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF YEAR
|
|
|
12,011,540 |
|
|
|
|
|
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF YEAR
|
|
$ |
2,536,407 |
|
|
|
|
|
SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash paid during the year for:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest on deposits and other borrowed funds
|
|
$ |
739,807 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income taxes
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Loans transferred to real estate owned
|
|
$ |
661,193 |
|
|
|
|
|
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
F-6
North East Bancshares, Inc.
Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements
|
|
1. |
Nature Of Operations And Summary Of Significant Accounting
Policies |
|
|
|
Nature of Operations And Basis of Presentation |
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of
North East Bancshares, Inc. (the Corporation) and
its wholly owned subsidiaries, The National Bank of North East
(the Bank) and Park Financial Services, Inc.
(Park). All intercompany transactions have been
eliminated in consolidation. The investments in subsidiaries on
the parent company financial statements are carried at the
parent companys equity in the underlying net assets.
The Corporation is a Pennsylvania corporation organized to
become the holding company of the Bank. The Bank is a national
association located in Pennsylvania. Park is a non-bank
subsidiary of the Corporation incorporated in Pennsylvania. The
Corporations principal sources of revenue emanate from its
commercial, residential real estate, and consumer loan
financing, as well as interest on investment securities and a
variety of deposit services provided to its customers serviced
by its three offices. The Corporation and Park are supervised by
the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, while the
Bank is subject to regulation and supervision by the Office of
the Comptroller of the Currency. The consolidated financial
statements of the Corporation include its wholly owned
subsidiaries, the Bank and Park. All intercompany items have
been eliminated in preparing the consolidated financial
statements.
The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in
conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the
United States of America. In preparing the financial statements,
management is required to make estimates and assumptions that
affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities as of the
Consolidated Balance Sheet date and revenues and expenses for
the period. Actual results could differ significantly from those
estimates.
|
|
|
Investment Securities Available-For-Sale |
The Corporation has classified investment securities as
available-for-sale to serve principally as a source of
liquidity. Unrealized holding gains and losses for
available-for-sale securities are reported as a separate
component of stockholders equity, net of tax, until
realized. Realized securities gains and losses are computed
using the specific identification method. Interest and dividends
on investment securities are recognized as income when earned on
the accrual method.
Common stock of the Federal Home Loan Bank
(FHLB), Atlantic Central Bankers Bank, and the
Federal Reserve Bank represents ownership in institutions which
are wholly owned by other financial institutions. These equity
securities are accounted for at cost and are classified as other
assets.
Loans are reported at their principal amount net of the
allowance for loan losses and deferred loan fees. Interest on
loans is recognized as income when earned on the accrual method.
Accrual of interest is discontinued when, in the opinion of
management, collection is doubtful. Payments received on
nonaccrual loans are recorded as income or applied against
principal according to managements judgment as to the
collectibility of principal.
Loan origination fees and certain direct loan origination costs
are being deferred and the amount amortized as an adjustment of
the related loans yield. Management is amortizing these
amounts over the contractual life of the related loans.
Loans originated and intended for sale in the secondary market
are carried at the lower of cost or estimated market value in
the aggregate. Net unrealized losses, if any, are recognized
through a valuation allowance established by charges to income.
F-7
North East Bancshares, Inc.
Notes To Consolidated Financial
Statements (Continued)
|
|
|
Allowance For Loan Losses |
The allowance for loan losses represents the amount which
management estimates is adequate to provide for probable losses
inherent in its loan portfolio. The allowance method is used in
providing for loan losses. Accordingly, all loan losses are
charged to the allowance, and all recoveries are credited to it.
The allowance for loan losses is established through a provision
for loan losses charged to operations. The provision for loan
losses is based on managements evaluation of the adequacy
of the allowance for loan losses, which evaluation encompasses
consideration of economic factors, past loan loss experience,
changes in the composition and volume of the portfolio, and
various other factors. The estimates used in determining the
adequacy of the allowance for loan losses, including the amounts
and timing of future cash flows expected on impaired loans, are
particularly susceptible to significant change in the near term.
Impaired loans are commercial and commercial real estate loans
for which it is probable the Corporation will not be able to
collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of
the loan agreement. The Corporation individually evaluates such
loans for impairment and does not aggregate loans by major risk
classifications. The definition of impaired loans is
not the same as the definition of nonaccrual loans,
although the two categories overlap. The Corporation may choose
to place a loan on nonaccrual status due to payment delinquency
or uncertain collectibility, while not classifying the loan as
impaired, if the loan is not a commercial or commercial real
estate loan. Factors considered by management in determining
impairment include payment status and collateral value. The
amount of impairment for these types of impaired loans is
determined by the difference between the present value of the
expected cash flows related to the loan, using the original
interest rate, and its recorded value, or as a practical
expedient in the case of collateralized loans, the difference
between the fair value of the collateral and the recorded amount
of the loans. When foreclosure is probable, impairment is
measured based on the fair value of the collateral.
Mortgage loans on one-to-four family properties and all consumer
loans are large groups of smaller-balance homogeneous loans and
are measured for impairment collectively. Loans that experience
insignificant payment delays, which are defined as 90 days
or less, generally are not classified as impaired. Management
determines the significance of payment delays on a case-by-case
basis taking into consideration all circumstances surrounding
the loan and the borrower, including the length of the delay,
the borrowers prior payment record, and the amount of
shortfall in relation to the principal and interest owed.
Premises and equipment are stated at cost net of accumulated
depreciation. Depreciation is computed using accelerated and
straight-line methods over the estimated useful lives of the
assets. Estimated lives for buildings are from 40 to
50 years. Equipment, furniture, and fixtures are generally
depreciated over five to ten years. Expenditures for maintenance
and repairs are charged against income as incurred. Costs of
major additions and improvements are capitalized.
Property and equipment are evaluated for impairment whenever
events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value
of an asset may not be recoverable from the estimated future
cash flows expected to result from its use and eventual
disposition. If expected cash flows are less than the carrying
value, an impairment loss is recognized equal to an amount by
which the carrying value exceeds the fair value of the assets.
|
|
|
Loan Servicing Rights (SRs) |
The Corporation has loan agreements for the express purpose of
selling these loans in the secondary market. The Corporation
maintains all servicing rights for these loans. Originated SRs
are recorded by allocating total costs incurred between the loan
and servicing rights based on their relative fair values. SRs are
F-8
North East Bancshares, Inc.
Notes To Consolidated Financial
Statements (Continued)
amortized in proportion to the estimated servicing income over
the estimated life of the servicing portfolio and are
periodically evaluated for impairment.
Real estate owned acquired in settlement of foreclosed loans is
carried as a component of other assets at the lower of cost or
fair value minus estimated cost to sell. Direct cost incurred in
the foreclosure process and subsequent holding costs incurred on
such properties are recorded as expenses of current operations.
|
|
|
Transfer Of Financial Assets |
Transfers of financial assets are accounted for as sales when
control over the assets has been surrendered. As also discussed
in Note 4, loans are sold without recourse. The Corporation
also has no obligations to repurchase the loans. Gains on sale
of loans equaled $5,804 in 2004.
Advertising costs are expensed as incurred and amounted to
$41,134 in 2004.
The Corporation and its subsidiaries file a consolidated federal
income tax return. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are
reflected at currently enacted income tax rates applicable to
the period in which the deferred tax assets or liabilities are
expected to be realized or settled. Deferred tax assets are
reduced by a valuation allowance when, in the opinion of
management, it is more likely than not that some portion or all
of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. As changes in
tax laws or rates are enacted, deferred tax assets and
liabilities are adjusted through the provision for income taxes.
The Corporation currently maintains a simple capital structure,
therefore, there are no dilutive effects on earnings per share.
Earnings per share are calculated based upon the
weighted-average number of shares of stock outstanding during
the year.
The Corporation is required to present comprehensive income in a
full set of general-purpose financial statements for all periods
presented. Other comprehensive income is composed exclusively of
unrealized holding gains (losses) on the available-for-sale
securities portfolio. The Corporation has elected to report the
effects of other comprehensive income as part of the Statement
of Changes in Stockholders Equity.
The Corporation has defined cash and cash equivalents as those
amounts included in the Consolidated Balance Sheet captions Cash
and due from banks and Federal funds sold.
In June 2003, the Bank entered into a formal written agreement
(the June 2003 Agreement) with the Office of the
Comptroller of the Currency (the OCC), which was
subsequently amended in December 2004. The provisions of the
June 2003 Agreement are effective until such time as they are
amended, suspended, waived or terminated by the OCC. The June
2003 Agreement requires the Bank to take various actions to
protect the interest of the depositors, other customers, and
shareholders of the Bank, and, toward
F-9
North East Bancshares, Inc.
Notes To Consolidated Financial
Statements (Continued)
that end, mandates the Bank to operate safely and soundly and in
accordance with all applicable laws, rules and regulations. The
June 2003 Agreement, as amended, requires the Bank to take
various actions as more fully described in the next paragraph.
Among the more significant OCC-required actions the Bank is
required to take under the June 2003 Agreement, as amended, are
(1) address assets criticized in a recently completed OCC
Report of Examination (ROE), (2) address loan
credit and collateral exceptions as noted in ROE,
(3) review adequacy of the Banks allowance for loan
and lease losses (ALLL) and establish a program for
the maintenance of an adequate ALLL, (4) establish an
independent and on-going loan review system, (5) revise
written loan policy, (6) adopt, implement, and maintain an
independent internal audit program, (7) develop a written
strategic plan covering at least a three-year period,
(8) develop a long-term profit plan, (9) appoint a
permanent independent information security administrator and
create an appropriate information security program,
(10) develop and test a formal comprehensive business
resumption plan, and (11) correct bank information systems
deficiencies noted in ROE.
In addition, the June 2003 Agreement, as amended mandates that
the Bank achieve and maintain the following capital levels:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December 31, | |
|
June 30, | |
|
December 31, | |
|
|
2004 | |
|
2005 | |
|
2005 | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
Tier 1 Capital (to risk-weighted assets)
|
|
|
12.0 |
% |
|
|
12.5 |
% |
|
|
13.0 |
% |
Tier 1 Capital (to adjusted total assets)
|
|
|
8.0 |
% |
|
|
8.5 |
% |
|
|
9.0 |
% |
|
|
3. |
Investment Securities Available-For-Sale |
The amortized cost and estimated market values of investment
securities available-for-sale are as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2004 | |
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
Gross | |
|
Gross | |
|
Estimated | |
|
|
Amortized | |
|
Unrealized | |
|
Unrealized | |
|
Market | |
|
|
Cost | |
|
Gains | |
|
Losses | |
|
Value | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
Obligations of U.S. government agencies and corporations
|
|
$ |
8,670,464 |
|
|
$ |
8,504 |
|
|
$ |
(31,983 |
) |
|
$ |
8,646,985 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The amortized cost and estimated market value of debt securities
at December 31, 2004, by contractual maturity, are shown
below. Expected maturities of securities could differ from
contractual maturities because borrowers may have the right to
call or prepay obligations with or without prepayment penalties.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Estimated | |
|
|
Amortized | |
|
Market | |
|
|
Cost | |
|
Value | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
Due in one year or less
|
|
$ |
1,774,499 |
|
|
$ |
1,765,861 |
|
Due after one year through five years
|
|
|
924,509 |
|
|
|
914,864 |
|
Due after five through ten years
|
|
|
2,000,000 |
|
|
|
2,006,250 |
|
Due after ten years
|
|
|
3,971,456 |
|
|
|
3,960,010 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total debt securities
|
|
$ |
8,670,464 |
|
|
$ |
8,646,985 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Investment securities with a fair value of $2,699,009 at
December 31, 2004 were pledged to secure public deposits
and other purposes as required by law.
F-10
North East Bancshares, Inc.
Notes To Consolidated Financial
Statements (Continued)
The following table presents gross unrealized losses and fair
value of investments aggregated by investment category and
length of time that individual securities have been in a
continuous unrealized loss position at December 31, 2004:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Less than 12 Months | |
|
12 months or more |
|
Total | |
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
# of | |
|
|
|
Unrealized | |
|
# of | |
|
Fair |
|
Unrealized |
|
# of | |
|
|
|
Unrealized | |
Description of Securities |
|
Securities | |
|
Fair Value | |
|
Losses | |
|
Securities | |
|
Value |
|
Losses |
|
Securities | |
|
Fair Value | |
|
Losses | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
U.S. Government agency securities
|
|
|
15 |
|
|
$ |
5,658,175 |
|
|
$ |
(31,983 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
|
15 |
|
|
$ |
5,658,175 |
|
|
$ |
(31,983 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The policy of the Corporation is to recognize an other than
temporary impairment on equity securities when the fair value
has been significantly below cost for three consecutive
quarters. For fixed maturity investments with unrealized losses
due to interest rates, when the Corporation has the positive
intent and ability to hold the investment for a period of time
sufficient to allow a market recovery, declines in value below
cost are not assumed to be other than temporary. The Corporation
reviews its position quarterly and has asserted that at
December 31, 2004, the declines outlined in the above table
represent temporary declines, and the Corporation does have the
intent and ability to hold those securities either to maturity
or to allow a market recovery.
The Corporation has concluded that any impairment of its
investment securities portfolio is not other than temporary but
is the result of interest rate changes, sector credit rating
changes, or company-specific rating changes that are not
expected to result in the noncollection of principal and
interest during the period.
Major classifications of loans are summarized as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2004 | |
|
|
| |
Mortgage loans on real estate:
|
|
|
|
|
|
Residential 1-4 family
|
|
$ |
6,241,842 |
|
|
Commercial, multi-family, and farm
|
|
|
22,937,743 |
|
|
Construction
|
|
|
3,375,302 |
|
|
Second mortgages
|
|
|
1,220,940 |
|
|
Equity lines of credit
|
|
|
4,203,100 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
37,978,927 |
|
Commercial loans
|
|
|
10,958,149 |
|
Tax-exempt loans
|
|
|
333,975 |
|
Consumer installment loans:
|
|
|
|
|
|
Personal
|
|
|
2,219,627 |
|
|
Credit cards and other
|
|
|
555,165 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
52,045,843 |
|
Allowance for loan losses
|
|
|
(1,950,491 |
) |
Deferred fees
|
|
|
(78,911 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
Net loans
|
|
$ |
50,016,441 |
|
|
|
|
|
The Corporations primary lending activity is with
customers located within North East, Pennsylvania, and
surrounding communities, which is the Corporations local
trade area. Within the Corporations diversified loan
portfolio at December 31, 2004, are loans outstanding to
individuals and businesses functioning as real estate operators
and lessors. These loans amounted to $5.7 million or
11.0 percent of total
F-11
North East Bancshares, Inc.
Notes To Consolidated Financial
Statements (Continued)
loans at December 31, 2004. Such loans are subject at
origination to credit risk assessment by management following
the Corporations lending policy. In general, a substantial
portion of the Corporations loan portfolio performance is
dependent upon the economic stability of its immediate trade
area.
Loans which are contractually past due 90 days or more
totaled $1,063,420 at December 31, 2004. Loans which have
been placed on a nonaccrual status totaled $2,713,047 at
December 31, 2004.
Information with respect to impaired loans as of and for the
year ended December 31, 2004 is as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2004 | |
|
|
| |
Loans for which there is a related allowance for loan losses
|
|
$ |
2,816,035 |
|
Loans for which there is no related allowance for loan losses
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
2,816,035 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Related allowance for loan losses
|
|
$ |
454,383 |
|
Average recorded balance of impaired loans
|
|
|
3,488,519 |
|
Interest income recognized on impaired loans
|
|
|
13,993 |
|
Real estate mortgage loans serviced for Freddie Mac, Atlantic
Central Bankers Bank, and Fannie Mae are not included in the
accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheet. The unpaid principal
balances of these loans at December 31, 2004 were
$19,190,207.
The following summarizes the activity pertaining to mortgage
servicing rights:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2004 | |
|
|
| |
Balance, January 1
|
|
$ |
58,810 |
|
SRs capitalized
|
|
|
|
|
SRs amortized
|
|
|
19,047 |
|
|
|
|
|
Balance, December 31
|
|
$ |
39,763 |
|
|
|
|
|
In the normal course of business, loans are extended to
directors, executive officers, and their associates. In
managements opinion, all of these loans are on
substantially the same terms and conditions as loans to other
individuals and businesses of comparable creditworthiness. A
summary of loan activity for those executive officers,
directors, and their associates is shown below:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2004 | |
|
|
| |
Balance, January 1
|
|
$ |
896,882 |
|
Additions
|
|
|
294,400 |
|
Collections
|
|
|
(67,070 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Balance, December 31
|
|
$ |
1,124,212 |
|
|
|
|
|
F-12
North East Bancshares, Inc.
Notes To Consolidated Financial
Statements (Continued)
|
|
5. |
Allowance For Loan Losses |
Changes in the allowance for loan losses for the year ended
December 31, 2004 are as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
Balance, January 1
|
|
$ |
1,199,736 |
|
Add:
|
|
|
|
|
|
Provision charged to operations
|
|
|
848,478 |
|
|
Recoveries
|
|
|
222,081 |
|
Less loans charged off
|
|
|
(319,804 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Balance, December 31
|
|
$ |
1,950,491 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
6. |
Premises And Equipment |
Major classifications of premises and equipment at
December 31, 2004 are summarized as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
Land
|
|
$ |
850,508 |
|
Buildings and building improvements
|
|
|
4,399,659 |
|
Furniture, fixtures, and equipment
|
|
|
2,642,250 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
7,892,417 |
|
Less accumulated depreciation
|
|
|
(2,380,235 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
Total
|
|
$ |
5,512,182 |
|
|
|
|
|
Depreciation charged to operations was $375,624 in 2004.
Leased equipment consists of equipment purchased that is leased
to a customer. The terms of the leases are classified as
operating leases. The components of leased equipment are as
follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2004 | |
|
|
| |
Equipment cost
|
|
$ |
280,466 |
|
Less accumulated depreciation
|
|
|
(158,774 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
Total
|
|
$ |
121,692 |
|
|
|
|
|
Future minimum rentals on these leases are as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
2005
|
|
$ |
71,427 |
|
2006
|
|
|
28,444 |
|
2007
|
|
|
17,852 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total
|
|
$ |
117,723 |
|
|
|
|
|
Time deposits include certificates of deposit in denominations
of $100,000 or more. Such deposits aggregated $7,090,374 at
December 31, 2004.
F-13
North East Bancshares, Inc.
Notes To Consolidated Financial
Statements (Continued)
At December 31, 2004, the scheduled maturities of
certificates of deposit are as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
Three months or less
|
|
$ |
14,302,541 |
|
Three to six months
|
|
|
2,338,843 |
|
Six months to one year
|
|
|
1,818,942 |
|
One year to three years
|
|
|
8,152,935 |
|
Three to five years
|
|
|
881,658 |
|
Five to ten years
|
|
|
611,025 |
|
Over ten years
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total
|
|
$ |
28,105,944 |
|
|
|
|
|
Related party deposits totaled $1,516,687 at December 31,
2004.
The Bank is a member of the Federal Home Loan Bank
(FHLB) of Pittsburgh. This membership allows the
Bank to borrow funds from FHLB which are collateralized by
qualifying securities and loans. At December 31, 2004, the
Bank had approximately $23.7 million in available credit
with FHLB, based on the Banks qualifying assets.
Advances from FHLB at December 31, 2004 consisted of the
following:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2004 | |
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
Interest | |
Stated Maturity |
|
Amount | |
|
Rate | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
December 2010
|
|
$ |
297,551 |
|
|
|
7.01 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
These funds were borrowed in connection with the Community
Investment Program which is sponsored by the FHLB. The Bank
granted a loan of a like amount for renovation of a building for
low income housing purposes.
The interest rate on the advance is 7.01 percent. Monthly
principal and interest payments are based on a term of
300 months with a balloon payment of $223,563 after
180 months (January 2011). Scheduled annual maturities for
each of the next five years are as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
2005
|
|
$ |
10,458 |
|
2006
|
|
|
11,215 |
|
2007
|
|
|
12,027 |
|
2008
|
|
|
12,898 |
|
2009
|
|
|
13,832 |
|
2010 and thereafter
|
|
|
237,121 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
297,551 |
|
|
|
|
|
F-14
North East Bancshares, Inc.
Notes To Consolidated Financial
Statements (Continued)
The provision (benefit) for income taxes consists of:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2004 | |
|
|
| |
Current
|
|
$ |
(13,760 |
) |
Deferred
|
|
|
(341,879 |
) |
Valuation allowance
|
|
|
355,639 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
|
|
|
The following temporary differences gave rise to the net
deferred tax assets:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2004 | |
|
|
| |
Deferred tax assets:
|
|
|
|
|
|
Allowance for loan losses
|
|
$ |
627,486 |
|
|
Net operating loss and charitable contribution carryforward
|
|
|
264,751 |
|
|
Deferred origination fees, net
|
|
|
6,287 |
|
|
Net unrealized loss on securities
|
|
|
7,983 |
|
|
Other
|
|
|
13,194 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total gross deferred tax assets
|
|
|
919,701 |
|
|
Less valuation allowance
|
|
|
(640,531 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total net deferred tax assets
|
|
|
279,170 |
|
|
|
|
|
Deferred tax liabilities:
|
|
|
|
|
|
Premises and equipment
|
|
|
(171,799 |
) |
|
Net unrealized gain on securities
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total gross deferred tax liabilities
|
|
|
(171,799 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net deferred tax assets
|
|
$ |
107,371 |
|
|
|
|
|
The following is a reconciliation between the actual provision
(benefit) for income taxes and the amount of income taxes which
would have been provided at the federal statutory rate:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2004 | |
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
% of | |
|
|
|
|
Pre-Tax | |
|
|
Amount | |
|
Income | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
Provision (benefit) at statutory rate
|
|
$ |
(346,926 |
) |
|
|
(34.0 |
)% |
Effect of tax-exempt income
|
|
|
(7,601 |
) |
|
|
(0.7 |
) |
Nondeductible interest expense
|
|
|
228 |
|
|
|
|
|
Valuation allowance
|
|
|
355,639 |
|
|
|
34.8 |
|
Other, net
|
|
|
(1,340 |
) |
|
|
(0.1 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Actual tax expense (benefit) and effective rate
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
|
0.0 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The Corporation has loss carryforwards totaling approximately
$770,000 that may be offset against future taxable income. If
not used, the carryforwards will expire in years 2023 and 2024.
F-15
North East Bancshares, Inc.
Notes To Consolidated Financial
Statements (Continued)
The Corporation has a profit sharing plan with a 401(k) feature,
which covers employees who have attained age 21 and have
completed one year of service. In connection with the settlement
of the Banks defined benefit pension plan in 2002,
$114,857 was transferred to a suspense account with the Trustee
and is being allocated to participants over a four-year period.
The Corporation made no contributions to the plan in 2004.
In the normal course of business, there are various outstanding
commitments and certain contingent liabilities, which are not
reflected in the accompanying consolidated financial statements.
These commitments and contingent liabilities represent financial
instruments with off-balance sheet risk. The contract or
notional amounts of those instruments reflect the extent of
involvement in particular types of financial instruments which
consisted of the following:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2004 | |
|
|
| |
Commitments to extend credit
|
|
$ |
12,021,000 |
|
Standby letters of credit
|
|
|
646,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total
|
|
$ |
12,667,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
These instruments involve, to varying degrees, elements of
credit and interest rate risk in excess of the amount recognized
in the Consolidated Balance Sheet. The Corporations
exposure to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by the
other parties to the financial instruments is represented by the
contractual amounts as disclosed. The Corporation minimizes its
exposure to credit loss under these commitments by subjecting
them to credit approval and review procedures and collateral
requirements as deemed necessary. Commitments generally have
fixed expiration dates within one year of their origination.
Standby letters of credit are conditional commitments issued by
the Corporation to guarantee the performance of a customer to a
third party. Performance letters of credit represent conditional
commitments issued by the Bank to guarantee the performance of a
customer to a third party. These instruments are issued
primarily to support bid or performance-related contracts. The
coverage period for these instruments is typically a one-year
period with an annual renewal option subject to prior approval
by management. Fees earned from the issuance of these letters
are recognized over the coverage period. For secured letters of
credit, the collateral is typically Bank deposit instruments or
customer business assets.
|
|
13. |
Regulatory Restrictions |
The Corporation is subject to the following regulatory
restrictions which are in addition to the restrictions placed on
the Bank as a result of the Regulatory Agreement discussed in
Note 2.
Included in cash and due from banks are reserves required by the
district Federal Reserve Bank of $494,000 at December 31,
2004. The required reserves are computed by applying prescribed
ratios to the classes of average deposit balances. These are
held in the form of cash on hand and a balance maintained
directly with the Federal Reserve Bank.
Federal law prevents the Corporation from borrowing from the
Bank unless the loans are secured by specific obligations.
Further, such secured loans are limited in amount to
10 percent of the Banks capital.
F-16
North East Bancshares, Inc.
Notes To Consolidated Financial
Statements (Continued)
The Bank is subject to a dividend restriction that generally
limits the amount of dividends that can be paid by a national
bank. Prior approval of the OCC is required if the total of all
dividends declared by a national bank in any calendar year
exceeds net profits, as defined for the year, combined with its
retained net profits for the two preceding calendar years less
any required transfers to surplus. Under this formula, the Bank
will be unable to pay a dividend to the Corporation unless its
2005 earnings exceed $1,785,483.
As instructed by the Federal Reserve Bank, the Corporation will
not declare shareholder dividends without the prior approval of
the Federal Reserve Bank. Prior approval must be submitted at
least 30 days before shareholder dividends are declared and
will be coordinated with the approval of Bank dividends by the
OCC.
|
|
14. |
Regulatory Capital Requirements |
Federal regulations require the Corporation and the Bank to
maintain minimum amounts of capital. Specifically, each is
required to maintain certain minimum dollar amounts and ratios
of Total and Tier I capital to risk-weighted assets and of
Tier I capital to average total assets.
In addition to the capital requirements, the Federal Deposit
Insurance Corporation Improvement Act (FDICIA)
established five capital categories ranging from well
capitalized to critically undercapitalized.
Should any institution fail to meet the requirements to be
considered adequately capitalized, it would become
subject to a series of increasingly restrictive regulatory
actions.
As of December 31, 2004, the FDIC categorized the Bank as
well capitalized under the regulatory framework for prompt
corrective action. To be classified as a well capitalized
financial institution, Total risk based, Tier I risk-based,
and Tier I Leverage capital ratios must be at least
10 percent, 6 percent, and 5 percent,
respectively.
The Corporations and Banks actual capital ratios are
presented in the following table:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For Capital | |
|
To Be Well | |
|
|
Actual | |
|
Adequacy Purposes | |
|
Capitalized | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
As of December 31, 2004:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Capital (to risk weighted assets):
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
North East Bancshares, Inc.
|
|
$ |
7,543,477 |
|
|
|
13.4 |
% |
|
$ |
4,510,400 |
|
|
|
³8.0 |
% |
|
|
N/A |
|
|
|
N/A |
|
|
|
The National Bank of North East
|
|
|
7,500,221 |
|
|
|
13.3 |
% |
|
|
4,510,400 |
|
|
|
³8.0 |
% |
|
$ |
5,638,000 |
|
|
|
³10.0 |
% |
|
Tier I Capital (to risk weighted assets):
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
North East Bancshares, Inc.
|
|
|
6,838,727 |
|
|
|
12.1 |
% |
|
|
2,255,200 |
|
|
|
³4.0 |
% |
|
|
N/A |
|
|
|
N/A |
|
|
|
The National Bank of North East
|
|
|
6,795,471 |
|
|
|
12.1 |
% |
|
|
2,255,200 |
|
|
|
³4.0 |
% |
|
|
3,382,800 |
|
|
|
³6.0 |
% |
|
Tier I Capital (to average assets):
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
North East Bancshares, Inc.
|
|
|
6,838,727 |
|
|
|
9.8 |
% |
|
|
2,798,480 |
|
|
|
³4.0 |
% |
|
|
N/A |
|
|
|
N/A |
|
|
|
The National Bank of North East
|
|
|
6,795,471 |
|
|
|
9.7 |
% |
|
|
2,798,480 |
|
|
|
³4.0 |
% |
|
|
3,498,100 |
|
|
|
³5.0 |
% |
As part of the Regulatory Agreement discussed in Note 2,
the Bank is subject to more restrictive capital requirements
than presented in the above table. Refer to Note 2 for the
capital requirements mandated by the Regulatory Agreement.
F-17
North East Bancshares, Inc.
Notes To Consolidated Financial
Statements (Continued)
|
|
15. |
Fair Value Of Financial Instruments |
The estimated fair values of the Corporations financial
instruments at December 31, 2004, are as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Carrying | |
|
Fair | |
|
|
Value | |
|
Value | |
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
|
(In thousands) | |
Financial assets:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash and due from banks, interest-bearing deposits in other
banks, and federal funds sold
|
|
$ |
2,653 |
|
|
$ |
2,653 |
|
|
Investment securities available for sale
|
|
|
8,647 |
|
|
|
8,647 |
|
|
Net loans
|
|
|
50,016 |
|
|
|
50,747 |
|
|
Regulatory stock
|
|
|
141 |
|
|
|
141 |
|
|
Accrued interest receivable
|
|
|
379 |
|
|
|
379 |
|
|
Financial liabilities:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Deposits
|
|
|
61,436 |
|
|
|
61,484 |
|
|
Other borrowed funds
|
|
|
298 |
|
|
|
330 |
|
|
Accrued interest payable
|
|
|
81 |
|
|
|
81 |
|
Financial instruments are defined as cash, evidence of an
ownership interest in an entity, or a contract which creates an
obligation or right to receive or deliver cash or another
financial instrument from/to a second entity on potentially
favorable or unfavorable terms.
Fair value is defined as the amount at which a financial
instrument could be exchanged in a current transaction between
willing parties other than in a forced or liquidation sale. If a
quoted market price is available for a financial instrument, the
estimated fair value would be calculated based upon the market
price per trading unit of the instrument.
If no readily available market exists, the fair value estimates
for financial instruments are based upon managements
judgment regarding current economic conditions, interest rate
risk, expected cash flows, future estimated losses, and other
factors as determined through various option pricing formulas or
simulation modeling. As many of these assumptions result from
judgments made by management based upon estimates which are
inherently uncertain, the resulting estimated fair values may
not be indicative of the amount realizable in the sale of a
particular financial instrument. In addition, changes in the
assumptions on which the estimated fair values are based may
have a significant impact on the resulting estimated fair values.
As certain assets such as deferred tax assets and premises and
equipment are not considered financial instruments, the
estimated fair value of financial instruments would not
represent the full value of the Corporation.
The Corporation employed simulation modeling in determining the
estimated fair value of financial instruments for which quoted
market prices were not available based upon the following
assumptions:
|
|
|
Cash And Due From Banks, Interest-Bearing Deposits In
Other Banks, Federal Funds Sold, Regulatory Stock, Accrued
Interest Receivable, And Accrued Interest Payable |
The fair value is equal to the current carrying value.
|
|
|
Investment Securities Available For Sale |
The fair value of investment securities available for sale is
equal to the available quoted market price. If no quoted market
price is available, fair value is estimated using the quoted
market price for similar securities.
F-18
North East Bancshares, Inc.
Notes To Consolidated Financial
Statements (Continued)
The fair value of loans held for sale is equal to the available
quoted market price.
|
|
|
Loans, Deposits, And Other Borrowed Funds |
The fair value of loans is estimated by discounting the future
cash flows using a simulation model which estimates future cash
flows and constructs discount rates that consider reinvestment
opportunities, operating expenses, noninterest income, credit
quality, and payment risk. Demand, savings, and money market
deposit accounts are valued at the amount payable on demand as
of year-end. Fair values for time deposits and other borrowed
funds are estimated using a discounted cash flow calculation
that applies contractual costs currently being offered in the
existing portfolio to current market rates being offered for
deposits and notes of similar remaining maturities.
|
|
|
Commitments To Extend Credit And Commercial Letters Of
Credit |
These financial instruments are generally not subject to sale,
and estimated fair values are not readily available. The
carrying value, represented by the net deferred fee arising from
the unrecognized commitment or letter of credit, and the fair
value, determined by discounting the remaining contractual fee
over the term of the commitment using fees currently charged to
enter into similar agreements with similar credit risk, are not
considered material for disclosure. The contractual amounts of
unfunded commitments and letters of credit are presented in
Note 12.
Following are condensed financial statements for the Corporation.
CONDENSED BALANCE SHEET
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December 31, | |
|
|
2004 | |
|
|
| |
ASSETS:
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash
|
|
$ |
13,687 |
|
|
Investment in bank subsidiary
|
|
|
6,783,974 |
|
|
Investment in nonbank subsidiary
|
|
|
25,570 |
|
|
Other assets
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total assets
|
|
$ |
6,823,231 |
|
|
|
|
|
STOCKHOLDERS EQUITY:
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common stock
|
|
$ |
1,161,680 |
|
|
Retained earnings
|
|
|
5,681,047 |
|
|
Treasury stock
|
|
|
(4,000 |
) |
|
Accumulated other comprehensive income
|
|
|
(15,496 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total stockholders equity
|
|
|
6,823,231 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total liabilities and stockholders equity
|
|
$ |
6,823,231 |
|
|
|
|
|
F-19
North East Bancshares, Inc.
Notes To Consolidated Financial
Statements (Continued)
CONDENSED STATEMENT OF INCOME
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December 31, | |
|
|
2004 | |
|
|
| |
INCOME,
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other
|
|
$ |
300 |
|
EXPENSES,
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other
|
|
|
5,002 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Loss before income taxes
|
|
|
(4,702 |
) |
|
Income tax benefit
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Loss before equity in undistributed net income of subsidiaries
|
|
|
(4,702 |
) |
|
Equity in undistributed net loss of subsidiaries
|
|
|
(1,015,670 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
NET LOSS
|
|
$ |
(1,020,372 |
) |
|
|
|
|
CONDENSED STATEMENT CASH FLOWS
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December 31, | |
|
|
2004 | |
|
|
| |
OPERATIVE ACTIVITIES:
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net loss
|
|
$ |
(1,020,372 |
) |
|
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Provided by (used in) operating activities:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Equity in undistributed net income of subsidiaries
|
|
|
1,015,670 |
|
|
|
|
Other
|
|
|
8,614 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
|
|
|
3,912 |
|
FINANCING ACTIVITIES,
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash dividends
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net cash used for financing activities
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Increase (decrease) in cash
|
|
|
3,912 |
|
CASH, BEGINNING OF YEAR
|
|
|
9,775 |
|
|
|
|
|
CASH, END OF YEAR
|
|
$ |
13,687 |
|
|
|
|
|
F-20
APPENDIX A
AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER
BETWEEN
F.N.B. CORPORATION
AND
NORTH EAST BANCSHARES, INC.
April 22, 2005
TABLE OF CONTENTS
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Page | |
|
|
|
|
| |
ARTICLE I CERTAIN DEFINITIONS |
|
|
A-1 |
|
|
1.1 |
|
|
Certain Definitions |
|
|
A-1 |
|
|
ARTICLE II THE MERGER |
|
|
A-5 |
|
|
2.1 |
|
|
The Merger |
|
|
A-5 |
|
|
2.2 |
|
|
Effective Date and Effective Time; Closing |
|
|
A-6 |
|
|
ARTICLE III MERGER CONSIDERATION; EXCHANGE PROCEDURES |
|
|
A-7 |
|
|
3.1 |
|
|
Conversion of Shares |
|
|
A-7 |
|
|
3.2 |
|
|
Fractional Shares |
|
|
A-7 |
|
|
3.3 |
|
|
Exchange Procedures |
|
|
A-7 |
|
|
3.4 |
|
|
Adjustments for Dilution and Other Matters |
|
|
A-9 |
|
|
3.5 |
|
|
Withholding Rights |
|
|
A-9 |
|
|
3.6 |
|
|
Bank Merger |
|
|
A-9 |
|
|
ARTICLE IV ACTIONS PENDING CLOSING |
|
|
A-9 |
|
|
4.1 |
|
|
Forbearances of North East |
|
|
A-9 |
|
|
4.2 |
|
|
Forbearances of Parent |
|
|
A-12 |
|
|
ARTICLE V REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES |
|
|
A-12 |
|
|
5.1 |
|
|
Disclosure Schedules |
|
|
A-12 |
|
|
5.2 |
|
|
Standard |
|
|
A-13 |
|
|
5.3 |
|
|
Representations and Warranties of North East |
|
|
A-13 |
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5.4 |
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Representations and Warranties of Parent |
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A-24 |
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ARTICLE VI COVENANTS |
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A-28 |
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6.1 |
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Reasonable Best Efforts |
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A-28 |
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6.2 |
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Shareholder Meeting |
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A-28 |
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6.3 |
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Registration Statement |
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A-28 |
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6.4 |
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Regulatory Filings |
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A-29 |
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6.5 |
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Press Releases |
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A-29 |
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6.6 |
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Access; Information |
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A-30 |
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6.7 |
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Affiliates |
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A-30 |
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6.8 |
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Certain Actions |
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A-30 |
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6.9 |
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Certain Policies |
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A-32 |
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6.10 |
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NYSE Listing |
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A-32 |
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6.11 |
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Indemnification |
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A-33 |
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6.12 |
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Benefit Plans |
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A-34 |
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6.13 |
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Notification of Certain Matters |
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A-34 |
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6.14 |
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Regulatory Conditions |
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A-35 |
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6.15 |
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Director Agreements |
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A-35 |
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6.16 |
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Extension of OCC Capital Requirement Deadline |
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A-35 |
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A-i
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Page | |
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ARTICLE VII CONDITIONS TO CONSUMMATION OF THE MERGER |
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A-35 |
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7.1 |
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Conditions to Each Partys Obligation to Effect the Merger |
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A-35 |
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7.2 |
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Conditions to Obligation of North East |
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A-35 |
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7.3 |
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Conditions to Obligation of Parent |
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A-36 |
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ARTICLE VIII TERMINATION |
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A-36 |
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8.1 |
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Termination |
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A-36 |
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8.2 |
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Effect of Termination |
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A-38 |
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ARTICLE IX MISCELLANEOUS |
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A-38 |
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9.1 |
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Survival |
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A-38 |
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9.2 |
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Waiver; Amendment |
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A-38 |
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9.3 |
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Counterparts |
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A-38 |
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9.4 |
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Governing Law |
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A-38 |
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9.5 |
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Expenses |
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A-38 |
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9.6 |
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Notices |
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A-39 |
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9.7 |
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Entire Understanding; No Third Party Beneficiaries |
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A-39 |
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9.8 |
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Severability |
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A-39 |
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9.9 |
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Enforcement |
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A-40 |
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9.10 |
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Interpretation |
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A-40 |
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9.11 |
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Assignment |
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A-40 |
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9.12 |
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Alternative Structure |
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A-40 |
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ANNEX A Form of Bank Merger Agreement |
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A-42 |
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ANNEX B Form of Affiliate Letter |
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B-1 |
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ANNEX C Form of Voting Agreement |
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C-1 |
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A-ii
AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER
AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER, dated as of April 22, 2005
(this Agreement), between F.N.B. Corporation
(Parent) and North East Bancshares, Inc.
(North East).
RECITALS
A. North East. North East is a Pennsylvania
corporation, having its principal place of business in North
East, Pennsylvania.
B. Parent. Parent is a Florida corporation,
having its principal place of business in Hermitage,
Pennsylvania.
C. Intention of the Parties. It is the
intention of the parties to this Agreement that the Merger
provided for herein be treated as a reorganization
under Section 368(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986,
as amended (the Code), and this Agreement
constitutes a plan of reorganization within the
meaning of Section 1.368-1(c) of the Treasury Regulations.
D. Board Action. The respective Boards of
Directors of Parent and North East have determined that it is in
the best interests of their respective companies and their
shareholders to consummate the Merger provided for herein.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and of the
mutual covenants, representations, warranties and agreements
contained herein, the parties agree as follows:
ARTICLE I
CERTAIN DEFINITIONS
1.1 Certain
Definitions. The following terms are used in this
Agreement with the meanings set forth below:
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Acquisition Proposal has the meaning set forth in
Section 6.8(e)(i). |
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Affiliate has the meaning set forth in
Section 3.3(h). |
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Affiliate Letter has the meaning set forth in
Section 6.7. |
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Agreement means this Agreement, as amended or
modified from time to time in accordance with Section 9.2. |
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Approval Recommendation has the meaning set forth in
Section 6.2. |
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Articles of Merger has the meaning set forth in
Section 2.2(a). |
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Average Closing Price as of any specified date shall
mean the average composite closing price of Parent Common Stock
on the NYSE as reported in New York Stock Exchange
Composite Transactions in The Wall Street Journal (Eastern
Edition) for each of the 20 consecutive trading days ending on
and including the fifth such trading day prior to the specified
date rounded to the nearest whole cent. |
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Bank Insurance Fund means the Bank Insurance Fund
maintained by the FDIC. |
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Bank Merger Agreement means the Agreement of Merger
by and between Parent Bank and North East Bank, the form of
which is attached as Annex A. |
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Bank Merger has the meaning set forth in
Section 3.6. |
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Bank Regulatory Authority means the Federal Reserve
Board, the OCC, the FDIC and any other state or federal bank
regulatory agency charged with the supervision or regulation of
North East, North East Bank, Parent or Parent Bank or the
insurance of the deposits of North East Bank or Parent Bank. |
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Bank Secrecy Act means the Bank Secrecy Act of 1970,
as amended. |
A-1
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Benefit Plans has the meaning set forth in
Section 5.3(m)(i). |
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Break-up Fee has the meaning set forth in
Section 6.8(f). |
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Business Day means Monday through Friday of each
week, except a legal holiday recognized as such by the
U.S. Government or any day on which banking institutions in
the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania are authorized or obligated to
close. |
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Certificate means any certificate that immediately
prior to the Effective Time represented shares of North East
Common Stock. |
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Change in North East Recommendation has the meaning
set forth in Section 6.8(b). |
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Closing and Closing Date have the
meanings set forth in Section 2.2(b). |
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Code has the meaning set forth in the recitals to
this Agreement. |
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Community Reinvestment Act means the Community
Reinvestment Act of 1977, as amended. |
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Confidentiality Agreements has the meaning set forth
in Section 6.6(c). |
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Derivatives Contract has the meaning set forth in
Section 5.3(q). |
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Determination Date means the date on which the last
required Bank Regulatory Authority is obtained with respect to
the Transaction, without regard to a requisite waiting period. |
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Disclosure Schedule has the meaning set forth in
Section 5.1. |
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DOL means the Department of Labor. |
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Effective Date has the meaning set forth in
Section 2.2(a). |
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Effective Time has the meaning set forth in
Section 2.2(a). |
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Environmental Laws has the meaning set forth in
Section 5.3(o)(ii). |
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Equal Credit Opportunity Act means the Equal Credit
Opportunity Act, as amended. |
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Equity Investment means (i) an Equity Security,
(ii) any ownership interest in any company or other entity,
any membership interest that includes a voting right in any
company or other entity or any interest in real estate or
(iii) any investment or transaction which in substance
falls into any of these categories even though it may be
structured as some other form of investment or transaction. |
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Equity Security means any stock (other than
adjustable-rate preferred stock, money market (auction rate)
preferred stock or other instrument determined by the OCC to
have the character of debt securities), certificate of interest
or participation in any profit-sharing agreement,
collateral-trust certificate, preorganization certificate or
subscription, transferable share, investment contract, or
voting-trust certificate; any security convertible into such a
security; any security carrying any warrant or right to
subscribe to or purchase any such security and any certificate
of interest or participation in, temporary or interim
certificate for or receipt for any of the foregoing. |
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ERISA means the Employee Retirement Income Security
Act of 1974, as amended. |
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ERISA Affiliate has the meaning set forth in
Section 5.3(m)(iii). |
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Exchange Act means the Securities Exchange Act of
1934, as amended, and the rules and regulations thereunder. |
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Exchange Agent means such entity selected by Parent
to effect the exchange of North East Common Stock for Parent
Common Stock and cash, as determined in Section 3.1(a). |
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Exchange Fund has the meaning set forth in
Section 3.3(a). |
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Exchange Ratio has the meaning set forth in
Section 3.1(a). |
A-2
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Fair Housing Act means the Fair Housing Act, as
amended. |
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FDIC means the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. |
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Federal Reserve Act means the Federal Reserve Act,
as amended. |
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Federal Reserve Board means the Board of Governors
of the Federal Reserve System. |
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FLBC means the Florida Business Corporation Act, as
amended. |
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Florida Merger Filing has the meaning set forth in
Section 2.2(a). |
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GAAP means generally accepted accounting principles
and practices as in effect from time to time in the United
States. |
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Governmental Authority means any federal, state or
local court, administrative agency or commission or other
governmental authority or instrumentality. |
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Hazardous Substance has the meaning set forth in
Section 5.3(o)(ii). |
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Home Mortgage Disclosure Act means the Home Mortgage
Disclosure Act, as amended. |
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Indemnified Parties and Indemnifying
Party have the meanings set forth in Section 6.11(a). |
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Insurance Amount has the meaning set forth in
Section 6.11(c). |
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Insurance Policies has the meaning set forth in
Section 5.3(w). |
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IRS means the Internal Revenue Service. |
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Liens means any charge, mortgage, pledge, security
interest, restriction, claim, lien or encumbrance. |
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Loans has the meaning set forth in
Section 4.1(q). |
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Majority Vote has the meaning set forth in
Section 5.3(e). |
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Material Adverse Effect means, with respect to
Parent or North East, any effect that (i) is material and
adverse to the financial position, results of operations or
business of Parent and its Subsidiaries taken as a whole or
North East and its Subsidiaries taken as a whole, as the case
may be, or (ii) would materially impair the ability of any
of Parent and its Subsidiaries or North East and its
Subsidiaries to perform their respective obligations under this
Agreement or the Bank Merger Agreement or otherwise materially
impede the consummation of the Transaction; provided, however,
that Material Adverse Effect shall not be deemed to include the
impact of (a) changes after the date hereof in banking and
similar laws of general applicability or interpretations thereof
by Governmental Authorities, (b) changes after the date
hereof in GAAP or regulatory accounting requirements applicable
to banks, federal savings institutions and their holding
companies generally, (c) changes after the date hereof in
general economic or market conditions affecting banks and their
holding companies generally, including changes in interest
rates, (d) public disclosure of the transactions
contemplated hereby, (e) costs incurred in connection with
the Transaction including, without limitation, change in control
and severance payments, investment banking fees, legal fees,
accounting fees and printing costs, in each case in accordance
with GAAP and (f) any action or omission of North East or
Parent taken with the prior consent of the other or as otherwise
contemplated by this Agreement in connection with the
consummation of the Transaction. |
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Material Contract has the meaning set forth in
Section 5.3(k)(i). |
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Merger has the meaning set forth in
Section 2.1(a). |
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Merger Consideration means the number of whole
shares of Parent Common Stock, or a combination of whole shares
of Parent Common Stock and cash, plus cash in lieu of any
fractional share interest into which shares of North East Common
Stock shall be converted pursuant to the provisions of
Article III. |
A-3
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NASD means the National Association of Securities
Dealers, Inc. |
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National Labor Relations Act means the National
Labor Relations Act, as amended. |
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North East has the meaning set forth in the preamble
to this Agreement. |
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North East Articles means the Articles of
Incorporation of North East, as amended. |
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North East Bank means National Bank of the North
East, a national association and wholly owned subsidiary of
North East. |
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North East Board means the Board of Directors of
North East. |
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North East Bylaws means the Bylaws of North East, as
amended. |
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North East Common Stock means the common stock, no
par value per share, of North East. |
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North East Group means any affiliated
group, as defined in Section 1504(a) of the Code
without regard to the limitations contained in
Section 1504(b) of the Code, that includes North East and
its Subsidiaries or any predecessor of or any successor to North
East, or to another such predecessor or successor. |
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North East Loan Property has the meaning set forth
in Section 5.3(o)(i). |
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North East Meeting has the meaning set forth in
Section 6.2. |
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North East Regulatory Authorities has the meaning
set forth in Section 5.3(i)(i). |
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NYSE means The New York Stock Exchange, Inc. |
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OCC means the Office of the Comptroller of the
Currency. |
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OCC Agreement means that certain agreement dated
June 25, 2003 by and between North East Bank and the OCC as
amended on December 16, 2004. |
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OREO means other real estate owned. |
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Parent has the meaning set forth in the preamble to
this Agreement. |
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Parent Articles means the Articles of Incorporation
of Parent, as amended. |
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Parent Bank means First National Bank of
Pennsylvania, a national association and wholly owned subsidiary
of Parent. |
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Parent Benefit Plans has the meaning set forth in
Section 6.12(a). |
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Parent Board means the Board of Directors of Parent. |
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Parent Common Stock means the common stock, par
value $.01 per share, of Parent. |
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Parent Preferred Stock means the preferred stock,
par value $.01 per share, of Parent. |
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Parent Regulatory Authorities has the meaning set
forth in Section 5.4(i)(i). |
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Payment Event has the meaning set forth in
Section 6.8(g). |
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PBCL means the Pennsylvania Business Corporation Law
of 1988, as amended. |
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Pennsylvania Merger Filing has the meaning set forth
in Section 2.2(a). |
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Pension Plan has the meaning set forth in
Section 5.3(m)(ii). |
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Person means a natural Person or any legal,
commercial, or governmental entity, such as, but not limited to,
a corporation, general partnership, joint venture, limited
partnership, limited liability company, trust, business
association, group acting in concert, a common enterprise, or
any person acting in a representative capacity. |
A-4
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Previously Disclosed by a party shall mean
information set forth in a section of its Disclosure Schedule
corresponding to the section of this Agreement where such term
is used. |
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Proxy Statement has the meaning set forth in
Section 6.3(a). |
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Registration Statement has the meaning set forth in
Section 6.3(a). |
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Representatives has the meaning set forth in
Section 6.8(a). |
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Rights means, with respect to any Person, warrants,
options, rights, convertible securities and other arrangements
or commitments that obligate the Person to issue or dispose of
any of its capital stock or other ownership interests. |
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SEC means the Securities and Exchange Commission. |
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Securities Act means the Securities Act of 1933, as
amended, and the rules and regulations thereunder. |
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Securities Documents has the meaning set forth in
Sections 5.3(g)(i) and 5.4(g)(i) in the case of North East
and Parent, respectively. |
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Subsidiary has the meaning ascribed thereto in
Rule 1-02 of Regulation S-X of the SEC. |
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Superior Proposal has the meaning set forth in
Section 6.8(e)(ii). |
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Surviving Corporation has the meaning set forth in
Section 2.1(a). |
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Tax and Taxes mean all federal, state,
local or foreign income, gross income, gains, gross receipts,
sales, use, ad valorem, goods and services, capital, production,
transfer, franchise, windfall profits, license, withholding,
payroll, employment, disability, employer health, excise,
estimated, severance, stamp, occupation, property,
environmental, custom duties, unemployment or other taxes of any
kind whatsoever, together with any interest, additions or
penalties thereto and any interest in respect of such interest
and penalties. |
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Tax Returns means any return, declaration or other
report (including elections, declarations, schedules, estimates
and information returns) with respect to any Taxes. |
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Third Party has the meaning set forth in
Section 6.8(g)(iv). |
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Transaction means the Merger and the Bank Merger and
any other transactions contemplated by this Agreement. |
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Treasury Shares means shares of North East Common
Stock held by North East or any of its Subsidiaries or by Parent
or any of its Subsidiaries, other than in a fiduciary, including
custodial or agency, capacity or as a result of debts previously
contracted in good faith. |
ARTICLE II
THE MERGER
2.1 The Merger.
(a) The Merger. Subject to the terms and
conditions of this Agreement, at the Effective Time, North East
shall merge with and into Parent in accordance with the
applicable provisions of the PBCL and the FLBC (the
Merger), the separate corporate existence of North
East shall cease and Parent shall survive and continue to exist
as a corporation incorporated under the FLBC (Parent, as the
surviving corporation in the Merger, sometimes being referred to
herein as the Surviving Corporation).
(b) Name. The name of the Surviving
Corporation shall be F.N.B. Corporation.
(c) Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws. The
articles of incorporation and bylaws of the Surviving
Corporation immediately after the Merger shall be the articles
of incorporation and the bylaws of the Parent as
A-5
in effect immediately prior to the Merger, in each case until
thereafter amended in accordance with applicable law.
(d) Directors and Executive Officers of the Surviving
Corporation. The directors of the Surviving Corporation
immediately after the Merger shall be the directors of Parent
immediately prior to the Merger, each of whom shall serve until
such time as their successors shall be duly elected. The
executive officers of the Surviving Corporation immediately
after the Merger shall be the executive officers of Parent
immediately prior to the Merger, each of whom shall serve until
such time as their successors shall be duly elected and
qualified.
(e) Authorized Capital Stock. The authorized
capital stock of the Surviving Corporation upon consummation of
the Merger shall be as set forth in the Parent Articles
immediately prior to the Merger.
(f) Effect of the Merger. At the Effective
Time, the effect of the Merger shall be as provided in
Sections 1921 through 1932 of the PBCL and
Sections 607.1101 through 607.11101 of the FLBC. Without
limiting the generality of the foregoing, and subject thereto,
at the Effective Time, all of the property, rights, privileges,
powers and franchises of North East shall vest in Parent, and
all debts, liabilities, obligations, restrictions, disabilities
and duties of North East shall become the debts, liabilities,
obligations, restrictions, disabilities and duties of Parent.
(g) Additional Actions. If, at any time after
the Effective Time, the Surviving Corporation shall consider
that any further assignments or assurances in law or any other
acts are necessary or desirable to (i) vest, perfect or
confirm, of record or otherwise, in the Surviving Corporation
its right, title or interest in, to or under any of the rights,
properties or assets of North East acquired or to be acquired by
the Surviving Corporation as a result of, or in connection with,
the Merger, or (ii) otherwise carry out the purposes of
this Agreement, North East, and its proper officers and
directors, shall be deemed to have granted to the Surviving
Corporation an irrevocable power of attorney to execute and
deliver all such proper deeds, assignments and assurances in law
and to do all acts necessary or proper to vest, perfect or
confirm title to and possession of such rights, properties or
assets in the Surviving Corporation and otherwise to carry out
the purposes of this Agreement, and the proper officers and
directors of the Surviving Corporation are fully authorized in
the name of the Surviving Corporation or otherwise to take any
and all such action.
2.2 Effective Date and
Effective Time; Closing.
(a) Subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the conditions
set forth in Article VII, other than those conditions that
by their nature are to be satisfied at the consummation of the
Merger, but subject to the fulfillment or waiver of those
conditions, the parties shall cause articles of merger relating
to the Merger (the Articles of Merger) to be filed
with the Secretary of State of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
pursuant to the PBCL (the Pennsylvania Merger
Filing) and the Secretary of State of the State of Florida
pursuant to the FLBC (the Florida Merger Filing) as
soon as possible after the receipt of all required approvals
from Bank Regulatory Authorities on (i) a date selected by
Parent after such satisfaction or waiver that is no later than
five Business Days after such satisfaction or waiver, or
(ii) such other date to which the parties may mutually
agree in writing, provided that in either case, such date shall
be no less than ten days following the North East Meeting. The
Merger provided for herein shall become effective upon such
filings or on such date as may be specified therein. The date of
the Florida Merger Filing or such later effective date is herein
called the Effective Date. The Effective
Time of the Merger shall be the time of the Florida Merger
Filing or as set forth in such filing.
(b) A closing (the Closing) shall take place
immediately prior to the Effective Time at 8:00 a.m.,
prevailing time, at the principal offices of Parent in
Hermitage, Pennsylvania, or at such other place, at such other
time, or on such other date as the parties may mutually agree
upon (such date, the Closing Date). At the Closing,
there shall be delivered to Parent and North East the opinions,
certificates and other documents required to be delivered under
Article VII.
A-6
ARTICLE III
MERGER CONSIDERATION; EXCHANGE PROCEDURES
3.1 Conversion of
Shares.
(a) Subject to the provisions of this Agreement, each share
of North East Common Stock issued and outstanding immediately
prior to the Effective Time, other than Treasury Shares and
shares held by Parent or Parent Bank, shall at the Effective
Time, by virtue of the Merger, no longer be outstanding and
shall as of the Effective Time automatically be converted into
and shall thereafter represent only the right to receive shares
of Parent Common Stock determined by dividing $107 by the
Average Closing Price of Parent Common Stock prior to the
Effective Date (the Exchange Ratio); provided,
however, that if the Average Closing Price is less than
$18 per share of Parent Common Stock, Parent shall have the
option, in Parents sole discretion, of delivering a
combination of cash and shares of Parent Common Stock based on
such Average Closing Price so that the total Merger
Consideration equals $107 per share of North East Common
Stock, but in no event shall the cash portion of the Merger
Consideration, including any cash paid with respect to
fractional interests as set forth in Section 3.2, exceed
$53 per share of North East Common Stock.
(b) At and after the Effective Time, each Treasury Share
shall be cancelled and retired and no shares of Parent Common
Stock, cash or other consideration shall be issued in exchange
therefor.
(c) At the Effective Time, the stock transfer books of
North East shall be closed as to holders of North East Common
Stock immediately prior to the Effective Time and no transfer of
North East Common Stock by any such holder shall thereafter be
made or recognized. If, after the Effective Time, certificates
are properly presented in accordance with Section 3.3 of
this Agreement to the Exchange Agent, such certificates shall be
canceled and exchanged for certificates representing the number
of whole shares of Parent Common Stock, or a combination of
whole shares of Parent Common Stock and a check representing the
amount of cash pursuant to Section 3.1(a), as the case may
be, and payment for any fractional share of Parent Common Stock
without any interest thereon.
(d) At and after the Effective Time, each share of Parent
Common Stock issued and outstanding immediately prior to the
Effective Time shall remain issued and outstanding and shall not
be affected by the Merger.
3.2 Fractional
Shares. Notwithstanding any other provision of this
Agreement, each holder of North East Common Stock who would
otherwise be entitled to receive a fractional share of Parent
Common Stock, after taking into account all Certificates
delivered by such holder, shall receive an amount in cash,
without interest, rounded to the nearest cent, equal to the
product obtained by multiplying (a) the Average Closing
Price determined as of the Effective Date by (b) the
fraction calculated to the nearest ten-thousandth of the share
of Parent Common Stock to which such holder would otherwise be
entitled. No such holder shall be entitled to dividends or other
rights in respect of any such fractional shares.
3.3 Exchange
Procedures.
(a) Not later than three days prior to the Effective Time
of the Merger, Parent shall deposit with the Exchange Agent for
the benefit of the holders of shares of North East Common Stock,
for exchange in accordance with this Section 3.3,
certificates representing the aggregate number of shares of
Parent Common Stock and cash, if any, issuable pursuant to
Section 3.1 in exchange for shares of North East Common
Stock outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time of the
Merger and funds in an amount not less than the amount of cash
payable in lieu of fractional shares of Parent Common Stock that
would otherwise be issuable in connection with Section 3.1,
but for the operation of Section 3.2 of this Agreement (the
Exchange Fund).
(b) After the Effective Time of the Merger, each holder of
a certificate (Certificate) formerly representing
North East Common Stock, other than Treasury Shares, who
surrenders or has surrendered such Certificate or customary
affidavits and indemnification regarding the loss or destruction
of such Certificate, together with duly executed transmittal
materials to the Exchange Agent, shall, upon acceptance thereof,
be entitled to (i) a certificate representing the Parent
Common Stock into which the shares of North East
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Common Stock shall have been converted pursuant to
Section 3.1 and (ii) the cash portion, if any, of the
Merger Consideration as determined under Section 3.1(a), as
well as cash in lieu of any fractional share of Parent Common
Stock to which such holder would otherwise be entitled, if
applicable. The Exchange Agent shall accept such Certificate
upon compliance with such reasonable and customary terms and
conditions as the Exchange Agent may impose to effect an orderly
exchange thereof in accordance with normal practices. Until
surrendered as contemplated by this Section 3.3, each
Certificate representing North East Common Stock shall be deemed
from and after the Effective Time of the Merger to evidence only
the right to receive the consideration to which it is entitled
hereunder upon such surrender. Parent shall not be obligated to
deliver the Merger Consideration to which any former holder of
North East Common Stock is entitled as a result of the Merger
until such holder surrenders his Certificate or Certificates for
exchange as provided in this Section 3.3. If any
certificate for shares of Parent Common Stock, or any check
representing cash and/or declared but unpaid dividends, is to be
issued in a name other than that in which a Certificate
surrendered for exchange is issued, the Certificate so
surrendered shall be properly endorsed and otherwise in proper
form for transfer and the person requesting such exchange shall
affix any requisite stock transfer tax stamps to the Certificate
surrendered or provide funds for their purchase or establish to
the satisfaction of the Exchange Agent that such taxes are not
payable.
(c) No dividends or other distributions declared or made
after the Effective Time of the Merger with respect to Parent
Common Stock with a record date after the Effective Time of the
Merger shall be paid to the holder of any unsurrendered
Certificate with respect to the shares of Parent Common Stock
represented thereby, and no cash payment in lieu of a fractional
share shall be paid to any such holder pursuant to
Section 3.2, until the holder of record of such Certificate
shall surrender such Certificate. Subject to the effect of
applicable laws, following surrender of any such Certificate,
there shall be paid to the record holder of the certificates
representing whole shares of Parent Common Stock issued in
exchange thereof, without interest, (i) at the time of such
surrender, the amount of any cash payable in lieu of a
fractional share of Parent Common Stock to which such holder is
entitled pursuant to Section 3.2 and the amount of
dividends or other distributions with a record date after the
Effective Time of the Merger theretofore paid with respect to
such whole shares of Parent Common Stock, and (ii) at the
appropriate payment date, the amount of dividends or other
distributions with a record date after the Effective Time of the
Merger but prior to surrender and a payment date subsequent to
surrender payable with respect to such whole shares of Parent
Common Stock.
(d) All cash and shares of Parent Common Stock issued upon
the surrender for exchange of shares of North East Common Stock
or the provision of customary affidavits and indemnification for
lost or mutilated certificates in accordance with the terms
hereof, including any cash paid pursuant to Section 3.2,
shall be deemed to have been issued in full satisfaction of all
rights pertaining to such shares of North East Common Stock, and
there shall be no further registration of transfers on the stock
transfer books of Parent, after the Merger, of the shares of
North East Common Stock that were outstanding immediately prior
to the Effective Time of the Merger. If, after the Effective
Time of the Merger, Certificates are presented to Parent for any
reason, they shall be canceled and exchanged as provided in this
Agreement.
(e) Any portion of the Exchange Fund, including any
interest thereon, that remains undistributed to the shareholders
of North East following the passage of nine months after the
Effective Time of the Merger shall be delivered to Parent, upon
demand, and any shareholders of North East who have not
theretofore complied with this Section 3.3 shall thereafter
look only to Parent for payment of their claim for cash and
Parent Common Stock, any cash in lieu of fractional shares of
Parent Common Stock and any dividends or distributions with
respect to Parent Common Stock.
(f) Neither North East nor Parent shall be liable to any
holder of shares of North East Common Stock or Parent Common
Stock, as the case may be, for such shares, or dividends or
distributions with respect thereto, or cash from the Exchange
Fund delivered to a public official pursuant to any applicable
abandoned property, escheat or similar law.
(g) The Exchange Agent shall not be entitled to vote or
exercise any rights of ownership with respect to the shares of
Parent Common Stock held by it from time to time hereunder,
except that it shall receive and
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hold all dividends or other distributions paid or distributed
with respect to such shares of Parent Common Stock for the
account of the Persons entitled thereto.
(h) Certificates surrendered for exchange by any Person
constituting an Affiliate of North East for purposes of
Rule 144(a) under the Securities Act shall not be exchanged
for certificates representing whole shares of Parent Common
Stock until Parent has received a written agreement from such
person as provided in Section 6.7.
3.4 Adjustments for Dilution
and Other Matters. If prior to the Effective Time of the
Merger, (a) Parent shall declare a stock dividend or
distribution on Parent Common Stock with a record date prior to
the Effective Time of the Merger, or subdivide, split up,
reclassify or combine Parent Common Stock or make a distribution
on the Parent Common Stock in any security convertible into
Parent Common Stock, in each case with a record date prior to
the Effective Time of the Merger, or (b) the outstanding
shares of Parent Common Stock shall have been increased,
decreased, changed into or exchanged for a different number or
kind of shares or securities, in each case as a result of a
reorganization, recapitalization, reclassification, stock
dividend, stock split, reverse stock split or other similar
change in Parents capitalization other than a transaction
in which Parent shall have received fair, as determined by its
Board of Directors, consideration for the shares issued, then a
proportionate adjustment or adjustments will be made to the
Exchange Ratio and the Average Closing Price, which adjustment
or adjustments may include, as appropriate, the issuance of
securities or property on the same basis as that on which any of
the foregoing shall have been issued, distributed or paid to
holders of Parent Common Stock generally.
3.5 Withholding
Rights. Parent, directly or through the Exchange Agent,
shall be entitled to deduct and withhold from any amounts
otherwise payable pursuant to this Agreement to any holder of
shares of North East Common Stock such amounts as Parent is
required under the Code or any state, local or foreign tax law
or regulation thereunder to deduct and withhold with respect to
the making of such payment. Any amounts so withheld shall be
treated for all purposes of this Agreement as having been paid
to the holder of North East Common Stock in respect of which
such deduction and withholding was made by Parent.
3.6 Bank Merger. As
soon as practicable after the execution of this Agreement, North
East and Parent shall cause North East Bank and Parent Bank to
enter into the Bank Merger Agreement, the form of which is
attached hereto as Annex A, that provides for the merger of
North East Bank with and into Parent Bank (the Bank
Merger), in accordance with applicable laws and
regulations and the terms of the Bank Merger Agreement and as
soon as practicable after consummation of the Merger. The Bank
Merger Agreement provides that the directors of Parent Bank upon
consummation of the Bank Merger shall be the directors of Parent
Bank immediately prior to the Bank Merger.
ARTICLE IV
ACTIONS PENDING CLOSING
4.1 Forbearances of North
East. From the date hereof until the Effective Time,
except as expressly contemplated or permitted by this Agreement
or as Previously Disclosed, without the prior written consent of
Parent, not to be unreasonably withheld, North East will not,
and will cause each of its Subsidiaries not to:
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(i) Conduct its business other than in the ordinary and
usual course consistent with past practice or fail to use
reasonable best efforts to preserve intact its business
organization and advantageous business relationships; |
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(ii) Fail to use commercially reasonable best efforts to
keep available the present services of its employees and
preserve for itself and Parent the goodwill of the customers of
North East and its Subsidiaries and others with whom business
relations exist; and |
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(iii) Take any action that would adversely affect or
materially delay the ability of either North East or Parent to
obtain any necessary approvals of any regulatory agency required
for the |
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transactions contemplated hereby or to perform its covenants and
agreements under this Agreement or to consummate the
transactions contemplated hereby. |
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(b) Capital Stock. (i) Issue, sell or
otherwise permit to become outstanding, or authorize the
creation of, any additional shares of stock or any Rights or
(ii) permit any shares of stock to become subject to grants
of employee or director stock options or other Rights. |
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(c) Dividends; Etc. |
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(i) Make, declare, pay or set aside for payment any
dividend on or in respect of, or declare or make any other
distribution on any shares of North East capital stock, other
than dividends from wholly owned Subsidiaries to North East or
another wholly owned Subsidiary of North East or as set forth on
Schedule 4.1(c) of the North East Disclosure
Schedule; or |
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(ii) Directly or indirectly adjust, split, combine, redeem,
reclassify, purchase or otherwise acquire, any shares of its
capital stock. |
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(d) Compensation; Employment Agreements; Etc.
Enter into or amend or renew any employment, consulting,
severance or similar agreements or arrangements with any
director, officer or employee of North East or its Subsidiaries
or grant any salary or wage increase or increase any employee
benefit, including discretionary or other incentive or bonus
payments, except: |
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(i) for normal increases in compensation and bonuses to
employees in the ordinary course of business consistent with
past practice, provided that no such increases shall result in
an annual aggregate adjustment in compensation or bonus of more
than 3%; |
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(ii) for other changes that are required by applicable law; |
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(iii) to pay the amounts or to provide payments under plans
and/or commitments set forth in Schedule 4.1(d) of the
North East Disclosure Schedule; |
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(iv) severance payments pursuant to the severance
agreements or employment agreements that are set forth in
Schedule 4.1(d) of the North East Disclosure
Schedule; or |
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(v) for grants of awards to newly hired employees
consistent with past practice. |
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(e) Hiring. Hire any person as an employee of
North East or any of its Subsidiaries or promote any employee,
except (i) to satisfy contractual obligations existing as
of the date hereof and set forth on Schedule 4.1(e) of the
North East Disclosure Schedule, or (ii) to fill any
vacancies arising after the date hereof at a comparable level of
compensation with persons whose employment is terminable at the
will of North East or a Subsidiary of North East, as applicable,
provided, however, that such total compensation may not exceed
$30,000. |
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(f) Benefit Plans. Enter into, establish,
adopt, amend or make any contributions to (except (i) as
may be required by applicable law or (ii) to satisfy
contractual obligations existing as of the date hereof and set
forth on Schedule 4.1(f) of the North East Disclosure
Schedule), any pension, retirement, stock option, stock
purchase, savings, profit sharing, deferred compensation,
consulting, bonus, group insurance or other employee benefit,
incentive or welfare contract, plan or arrangement, or any trust
agreement or similar arrangement related thereto, in respect of
any director, officer or employee of North East or its
Subsidiaries. With respect to any North East Benefit Plan that
provides for vesting, there shall be no discretionary vesting
without Parents prior written consent whether or not such
discretionary vesting is provided for under the North East
Benefit Plan, and North East shall not take any action to
accelerate the vesting or exercisability of stock options,
restricted stock or other compensation or benefits payable
thereunder. |
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(g) Dispositions. Sell, transfer, mortgage,
encumber or otherwise dispose of or discontinue any of its
assets, deposits, business or properties except in the ordinary
course of business consistent with past practice and in a
transaction that, together with all other such transactions, is
not material to North East and its Subsidiaries taken as a whole. |
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(h) Acquisitions. Acquire, other than by way
of foreclosures or acquisitions of control in a bona fide
fiduciary capacity or in satisfaction of debts previously
contracted in good faith, in each case in the ordinary and usual
course of business consistent with past practice, all or any
portion of the assets, business, deposits or properties of any
other entity. |
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(i) Capital Expenditures. Make any capital
expenditures other than capital expenditures in the ordinary
course of business consistent with past practice in amounts not
exceeding $10,000 individually or $25,000 in the aggregate,
provided, however, that if Parent does not object to a written
request for approval within two business days after receipt, the
request shall be deemed approved. |
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(j) Governing Documents. Amend the North East
Articles or the North East Bylaws or the articles of
incorporation or bylaws (or equivalent documents) of any
Subsidiary of North East, except as may be required by law. |
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(k) Accounting Methods. Implement or adopt
any change in its tax accounting or financial accounting
principles, practices or methods, other than as may be required
by changes in laws or regulations or GAAP. |
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(l) Contracts. Except in the ordinary course
of business consistent with past practice or as otherwise
permitted under this Section 4.1, enter into or terminate
any Material Contract or amend or modify in any material respect
any of its existing Material Contracts. |
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(m) Claims. Enter into any settlement or
similar agreement with respect to any action, suit, proceeding,
order or investigation to which North East or any of its
Subsidiaries is or becomes a party, which settlement, agreement
or action involves payment by North East or any of its
Subsidiaries of an amount that exceeds $25,000 and/or would
impose any material restriction on the business of North East or
any of its Subsidiaries or create precedent for claims that are
reasonably likely to be material to North East and its
Subsidiaries taken as a whole. |
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(n) Banking Operations. Enter into any new
material line of business; change its material lending,
investment, underwriting, risk and asset liability management
and other material banking and operating policies, except as
required by applicable law, regulation or policies imposed by
any Governmental Authority; or file any application or make any
contract with respect to opening or closing a branching or site
location or branching or site relocation. |
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(o) Indebtedness. (i) Incur any
indebtedness for borrowed money, other than deposits, federal
funds purchased, cash management accounts, Federal Home
Loan Bank borrowings that mature within one year and
securities sold under agreements to repurchase that mature
within 90 days, in each case in the ordinary course of
business consistent with past practice, or assume, guarantee,
endorse or otherwise as an accommodation become responsible for
the obligations of any other Person, other than in the ordinary
course of business consistent with past practice or
(ii) prepay any indebtedness. |
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(p) Investment Securities. (i) Acquire,
other than by way of foreclosures or acquisitions in a bona fide
fiduciary capacity or in satisfaction of debts previously
contracted in good faith, in each case in the ordinary course of
business consistent with past practice, any debt security or
Equity Investment other than federal funds or United States
Government securities or United States Government agency
securities, in each case with a term of one (1) year or
less, (ii) restructure or materially change its investment
securities portfolio or its gap position or (iii) enter in
any Derivatives Contract, provided, however, that if Parent does
not object to a written request for approval within two business
days after receipt, the request shall be deemed approved. |
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(q) Loans. Make, renew or otherwise modify
(i) any loan, loan commitment, letter of credit or other
extension of credit (individually, a Loan and
collectively, Loans) to any Person if, immediately
after making (x) a Loan or Loans (other than a permanent
Loan secured by an owner-occupied 1-4 single-family
residence or a secured commercial Loan), such Person would be
indebted to North East Bank in an aggregate amount in excess of
$25,000, (y) a secured commercial Loan, such Person would
be indebted to North East Bank in an aggregate amount in excess
of $100,000 or (z) a permanent |
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Loan secured by an owner-occupied 1-4 single-family residence,
such Person would be indebted to North East Bank in an aggregate
amount in excess of $200,000 or (ii) any Loan that contains
terms that involve an exception to North East Banks Credit
Policy Manual, provided, however, that if Parent does not object
to a written request for approval within two business days after
receipt, the request shall be deemed approved. North East Bank
further agrees that will review with representatives of Parent
Bank the circumstances and terms of problem or work-out Loans
before establishing a work-out plan or otherwise take any action
with respect to any such Loans and shall provide notice to
Parent Bank of, and permit representatives of Parent Bank at
Parent Banks discretion to attend, meetings of North East
Banks loan committee. |
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(r) Investments in Real Estate. Make any
investment or commitment to invest in real estate or in any real
estate development project, other than by way of foreclosure or
acquisitions in a bona fide fiduciary capacity or in
satisfaction of a debt previously contracted in good faith, in
each case in the ordinary course of business consistent with
past practice. |
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(s) Adverse Actions. Take any action that
(i) would, or is reasonably likely to, prevent or impede
the Merger from qualifying as a reorganization within the
meaning of Section 368(a) of the Code, (ii) is
intended or is reasonably likely to result in (x) any of
its representations and warranties set forth in this Agreement
being or becoming untrue in any material respect at any time at
or prior to the Effective Time, (y) any of the conditions
to the Merger set forth in Article VII not being satisfied
or (z) a material violation of any provision of this
Agreement or the Bank Merger Agreement, in either case, except
as may be required by applicable law or regulation and
(iii) would adversely affect or materially delay the
ability of either Parent or North East to obtain any necessary
approvals required of any regulatory agency for the transactions
contemplated hereby or to perform its covenants and agreements
under this Agreement or to consummate the transactions
contemplated hereby. |
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(t) Commitments. Enter into any contract with
respect to, or otherwise agree or commit to do, any of the
foregoing. |
4.2 Forbearances of
Parent. From the date hereof until the Effective Time,
except as expressly contemplated or permitted by this Agreement
or as Previously Disclosed, without the prior written consent of
North East, not to be unreasonably withheld, Parent will not,
and will cause each of its Subsidiaries not to:
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(a) Adverse Actions. Take any action that
(i) would, or is reasonably likely to, prevent or impede
the Merger from qualifying as a reorganization within the
meaning of Section 368(a) of the Code, (ii) is
intended or is reasonably likely to result in (x) any of
its representations and warranties set forth in this Agreement
being or becoming untrue in any material respect at any time at
or prior to the Effective Time, (y) any of the conditions
to the Merger set forth in Article VII not being satisfied
or (z) a material violation of any provision of this
Agreement or the Bank Merger Agreement, except as may be
required by applicable law or regulation or (iii) would
adversely affect or materially delay the ability of either
Parent or North East to obtain any necessary approvals required
of any regulatory agency for the transactions contemplated
hereby or to perform its covenants and agreements under this
Agreement or to consummate the transactions contemplated hereby. |
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(b) Commitments. Enter into any contract with
respect to, or otherwise agree or commit to do, any of the
foregoing. |
ARTICLE V
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES
5.1 Disclosure
Schedules. On or prior to the date hereof, Parent has
delivered to North East a schedule and North East has delivered
to Parent a schedule (respectively, its Disclosure
Schedule) setting forth, among other things, items the
disclosure of which is necessary or appropriate either in
response to an express disclosure requirement contained in a
provision hereof or as an exception to one or more
representations or warranties contained in Section 5.3 or
5.4 or to one or more of its covenants contained in
Article IV;
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provided, however, that (a) no such item is required to be
set forth in a Disclosure Schedule as an exception to a
representation or warranty or as an exception to a covenant in
Article IV if its absence would not be reasonably likely to
result in the related representation or warranty being deemed
untrue or incorrect under the standard established by
Section 5.2 and (b) the mere inclusion of an item in a
Disclosure Schedule as an exception to a representation or
warranty shall not be deemed an admission by a party that such
item represents a material exception or fact, event or
circumstance or that, absent such inclusion in the Disclosure
Schedule, such item is or would be reasonably likely to result
in a Material Adverse Effect.
5.2 Standard. No
representation or warranty of North East or Parent contained in
Sections 5.3 or 5.4, respectively, shall be deemed untrue
or incorrect for any purpose under this Agreement, and no party
hereto shall be deemed to have breached a representation or
warranty, in any case, as a consequence of the existence of any
fact, event or circumstance unless such fact, circumstance or
event, individually or taken together with all other facts,
events or circumstances inconsistent with any representation or
warranty contained in Sections 5.3, 5.4 or 5.5, has had or
would be reasonably likely to have a Material Adverse Effect on
the party making such representation or warranty disregarding
for the purposes of this Section 5.2 any materiality or
Material Adverse Effect qualification contained in any
representations or warranties.
5.3 Representations and
Warranties of North East. Subject to Sections 5.1
and 5.2, North East hereby represents and warrants to Parent as
follows:
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(a) Organization, Standing and Authority.
North East is a corporation duly organized, validly existing and
in good standing under the laws of the Commonwealth of
Pennsylvania. North East is duly qualified to do business and is
in good standing in each jurisdiction where its ownership or
leasing of property or assets or the conduct of its business
requires it to be so qualified. North East has in effect all
federal, state, local and foreign governmental authorizations
necessary for it to own or lease its properties and assets and
to carry on its business as now conducted. |
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(b) North East Capital Stock. The authorized
capital stock of North East consists solely of
202,500 shares of North East Common Stock, of which
145,168 shares are issued and outstanding as of the date
hereof. As of the date hereof, no shares of North East Common
Stock were held in treasury by North East or otherwise directly
or indirectly owned by North East. The outstanding shares of
North East Common Stock have been duly authorized and validly
issued and are fully paid and non-assessable, and none of the
outstanding shares of North East Common Stock have been issued
in violation of the preemptive rights of any Person. Except as
set forth in as set forth in Schedule 5.3(b) of the North
East Disclosure Schedule, there are no shares of North East
Common Stock reserved for issuance, North East does not have any
Rights issued or outstanding with respect to North East Common
Stock and North East does not have any commitment to authorize,
issue or sell any North East Common Stock or Rights. |
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(c) Subsidiaries. |
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(i) (A) Schedule 5.3(c) of the North East
Disclosure Schedule sets forth a list of all of its Subsidiaries
together with the jurisdiction of organization of each such
Subsidiary; (B) except as set forth on Schedule 5.3(c)
of the North East Disclosure Schedule, North East owns, directly
or indirectly, all the issued and outstanding equity securities
of each of its Subsidiaries; (C) no equity securities of
any of its Subsidiaries are or may become required to be issued
(other than to North East) by reason of any Right or otherwise;
(D) there are no contracts, commitments, understandings or
arrangements by which any of its Subsidiaries is or may be bound
to sell or otherwise transfer any of its equity securities other
than to North East or any of its wholly owned Subsidiaries;
(E) there are no contracts, commitments, understandings or
arrangements relating to North Easts rights to vote or to
dispose of such equity securities of North Easts
Subsidiaries and (F) all the equity securities of North
Easts Subsidiaries held by North East or its Subsidiaries
are fully paid and nonassessable and are owned by North East or
its Subsidiaries free and clear of any Liens. |
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(ii) Except as set forth in Schedule 5.3(c) of the
North East Disclosure Schedules and except for securities and
other interests held in a fiduciary capacity and beneficially
owned by third parties or taken in consideration of debts
previously contracted, ownership interests in North Easts |
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Subsidiaries [and stock in the Federal Home Loan Bank of
Pittsburgh], North East does not own beneficially, directly or
indirectly, any equity securities or similar interests of any
Person or any interest in a partnership or joint venture of any
kind. |
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(iii) Each of North Easts Subsidiaries has been duly
organized and is validly existing in good standing under the
laws of the jurisdiction of its organization and is duly
qualified to do business and in good standing in the
jurisdictions where its ownership or leasing of property or the
conduct of its business requires it to be so qualified. |
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(iv) The deposit accounts of North East Bank are insured by
the Bank Insurance Fund, in the manner and to the maximum extent
provided by applicable law, and North East Bank has paid all
deposit insurance premiums and assessments required by
applicable laws and regulations. |
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(d) Corporate Power. Each of North East and
its Subsidiaries has the corporate power and authority to carry
on its business as it is now being conducted and to own all its
properties and assets; and North East has the corporate power
and authority to execute, deliver and perform its obligations
under this Agreement and to consummate the Transaction, subject
to receipt of all necessary approvals of Governmental
Authorities and the approval of North Easts shareholders
of this Agreement, and no other corporate proceedings are
necessary on the part of North East to approve this Agreement or
to consummate the Transaction. |
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(e) Corporate Authority. Subject to the
approval of this Agreement by the holders of not less than a
majority of the outstanding shares of North East Common Stock (a
Majority Vote), this Agreement and the Transaction
have been authorized by all necessary corporate action of North
East and the North East Board on or prior to the date hereof.
North East has duly executed and delivered this Agreement and,
assuming due authorization, execution and delivery by Parent of
this Agreement, this Agreement is a valid and legally binding
obligation of North East, enforceable in accordance with its
terms, except as enforceability may be limited by applicable
bankruptcy, insolvency, receivership, conservatorship,
reorganization, moratorium, fraudulent transfer and similar laws
of general applicability relating to or affecting
creditors rights or by general equity principles. |
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(f) Regulatory Approvals; No Defaults. |
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(i) No consents or approvals of, or waivers by, or filings
or registrations with, any Governmental Authority or with any
third party are required to be made or obtained by North East or
any of its Subsidiaries in connection with the execution,
delivery or performance by North East and North East Bank of
this Agreement and the Bank Merger Agreement, respectively, or
to consummate the Transaction except for (A) filings of
applications or notices with, and approvals or waivers by, the
OCC, the FDIC and the Federal Reserve Board, (B) filings
with the FDIC and state securities authorities, as applicable,
in connection with the submission of this Agreement for the
approval of the holders of North East Common Stock and the
registration of Parent Common Stock issuable in the Merger,
(C) the filing of Articles of Merger with the Secretary of
State of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania pursuant to the PBCL
and the Secretary of State of the State of Florida pursuant to
the FLBC with respect to the Merger and (D) the approval
and adoption of this Agreement by a Majority Vote. As of the
date hereof, North East is not aware of any reason why the
approvals set forth above and referred to in Section 7.1(b)
will not be received in a timely manner and without the
imposition of a condition, restriction or requirement of the
type described in Section 7.1(b). |
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(ii) Subject to receipt, or the making, of the consents,
approvals, waivers and filings referred to in the preceding
paragraph and the expiration of related waiting periods, the
execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement and the
Bank Merger Agreement by North East and North East Bank,
respectively, and the consummation of the Transaction do not and
will not (A) except as Previously Disclosed, constitute a
breach or violation of, or a default under, or give rise to any
Lien, any acceleration of remedies or any right of termination
under, any law, rule or regulation or any judgment, decree,
order, governmental permit or license, or agreement, indenture
or instrument of North East or any of its Subsidiaries or to
which North East or any of its Subsidiaries or any of their |
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respective properties is subject or bound, (B) constitute a
breach or violation of, or a default under, the North East
Articles, the North East Bylaws or similar governing documents
of North Easts Subsidiaries or (C) require any
consent or approval under any such law, rule, regulation,
judgment, decree, order, governmental permit or license,
agreement, indenture or instrument. |
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(g) Financial Reports; Undisclosed
Liabilities. |
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(i) North Easts annual reports filed with the Federal
Reserve Board containing audited consolidated financial
statements for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2004,
2003 and 2002 and all other reports, registration statements,
definitive proxy statements or information statements filed or
to be filed by it subsequent to December 31, 2002 with the
OCC or the FDIC (collectively, North Easts
Securities Documents), as of the date filed or to be
filed and as amended prior to the date hereof, (A) complied
or will comply in all material respects as to form with the
applicable regulations of the OCC or the Federal Reserve Board
as the case may be and (B) did not and will not contain any
untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material
fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the
statements therein, in the light of the circumstances under
which they were made, not misleading, except that information as
of a later date shall be deemed to modify information as of an
earlier date; and each of the consolidated statements of
financial condition contained in any such Securities Documents,
including the related notes and schedules thereto, fairly
presents, or will fairly present, the consolidated financial
position of North East and its Subsidiaries as of its date, and
each of the consolidated statements of income,
shareholders equity and cash flows or equivalent
statements in North Easts Securities Documents, including
any related notes and schedules thereto, fairly presents, or
will fairly present, the consolidated results of operations,
changes in shareholders equity and changes in cash flows,
as the case may be, of North East and its Subsidiaries for the
periods to which they relate, in each case in accordance with
GAAP consistently applied during the periods involved, except in
each case as may be noted therein. |
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(ii) Neither North East nor any of its Subsidiaries has
incurred any liability other than in the ordinary course of
business consistent with past practice, excluding the incurrence
of expenses related to this Agreement and the Transaction. |
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(iii) Since December 31, 2004, (A) North East and
its Subsidiaries have conducted their respective businesses in
the ordinary and usual course consistent with past practice
(excluding the incurrence of expenses related to this Agreement
and the Transaction); (B) neither North East nor any of its
Subsidiaries has taken nor permitted or entered into any
contract with respect to, or otherwise agreed or committed to do
or take, any of the actions set forth in Sections 4.1(d),
(f), (g), (h), (j), (k) and (n) hereof between
December 31, 2004 and the date hereof; (C) neither
North East nor any of its Subsidiaries has taken or permitted or
entered into any contract with respect to, or otherwise agreed
or committed to do or take, any of the actions set forth in
Sections 4.1(e), (i), (l), (m), (p), (q) and
(r) between January 1, 2005 and the date hereof and
(D) except as set forth in North East Securities Documents,
since December 31, 2004, no event has occurred or
circumstance arisen that, individually or taken together with
all other facts, circumstances and events described in any
paragraph of this Section 5.3 or otherwise, is reasonably
likely to have a Material Adverse Effect with respect to North
East. |
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(iv) No agreement pursuant to which any loans or other
assets have been or shall be sold by North East or its
Subsidiaries entitled the buyer of such loans or other assets,
unless there is material breach of a representation or covenant
by North East or its Subsidiaries, to cause North East or its
Subsidiaries to repurchase such loan or other asset or the buyer
to pursue any other form of recourse against North East or its
Subsidiaries. To the knowledge of North East, there has been no
material breach of a representation or covenant by North East or
its Subsidiaries in any such agreement. Except as disclosed in
North Easts Securities Documents filed prior to the date
hereof, since December 31, 2002, no cash, stock or other
dividend or any other distribution with respect to the capital
stock of North East or any of its Subsidiaries has been
declared, set aside or paid. Except as disclosed in North
Easts Securities Documents filed prior to the date hereof,
no shares of capital |
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stock of North East have been purchased, redeemed or otherwise
acquired, directly or indirectly, by North East since
December 31, 2004, and no agreements have been made to make
any such purchase, redemption or acquisition. |
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(h) Litigation. No litigation, claim or other
proceeding before any court or governmental agency is pending
against North East or any of its Subsidiaries and, to North
Easts knowledge, no such litigation, claim or other
proceeding has been threatened and there are no facts that could
reasonably give rise to such litigation, claim or other
proceeding. Neither North East nor any of its Subsidiaries is a
party to any order, judgment or decree that has or could
reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect with
respect to North East. |
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(i) Regulatory Matters. |
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(i) Neither North East nor any of its Subsidiaries nor any
of their respective properties is a party to or is subject to
any order, decree, agreement, memorandum of understanding or
similar arrangement with, or a commitment letter or similar
submission to, or supervisory letter from, any Bank Regulatory
Authority or any federal or state governmental agency or
authority charged with the supervision or regulation of issuers
of securities or the supervision or regulation of it
(collectively, the North East Regulatory
Authorities). North East and its Subsidiaries have paid
all assessments made or imposed by any North East Regulatory
Authority. |
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(ii) Neither North East nor any of its Subsidiaries has
been advised by, nor does it have any knowledge of facts that
could give rise to an advisory notice by, any North East
Regulatory Authority that such North East Regulatory Authority
is contemplating issuing or requesting, or is considering the
appropriateness of issuing or requesting, any such order,
decree, agreement, memorandum of understanding, commitment
letter, supervisory letter or similar submission. |
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(iii) North East and each of its Subsidiaries have timely
filed all reports, registrations and statements, together with
any amendments required to be made with respect thereto, that
they were required to file since January 1, 2002 with
(A) the Federal Reserve Board, (B) the OCC and
(C) any other federal or state regulatory authority, and
all other reports and statements required to be filed by them
since January 1, 2002, and have paid all fees and
assessments due and payable in connection therewith. Except as
set forth in Schedule 5.3(i) of the North East Disclosure
Schedule and except for normal examinations conducted by Bank
Regulatory Authorities, (A) no Bank Regulatory Authority
has initiated or has pending any proceeding or, to the knowledge
of North East, investigation into the business or operations of
North East or any of its Subsidiaries since January 1,
2002, except where such proceedings or investigation are not
reasonably likely to have, either individually or in the
aggregate, a North East Material Adverse Effect, and
(B) there is no unresolved violation, criticism or
exception by any Bank Regulatory Authority with respect to the
business, operations, policies or procedures of North East or
North East Bank since January 1, 2002 that are reasonably
likely to have, either individually or in the aggregate, a North
East Material Adverse Effect. |
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(iv) The current deadline under the OCC Agreement with
respect to North East Banks achievement of certain
increased capital requirements is October 31, 2005. |
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(j) Compliance With Laws. Each of North East
and its Subsidiaries: |
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(i) is in material compliance with all applicable federal,
state, local and foreign statutes, laws, regulations,
ordinances, rules, judgments, orders or decrees applicable
thereto or to the employees conducting such businesses,
including, without limitation, Sections 23A and 23B of the
Federal Reserve Act and FDIC and OCC regulations pursuant
thereto, the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, the Fair Housing Act,
the Community Reinvestment Act, the Home Mortgage Disclosure
Act, the Bank Secrecy Act and all other applicable fair lending
laws and other laws relating to discriminatory business
practices; |
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(ii) has all permits, licenses, authorizations, orders and
approvals of, and has made all filings, applications and
registrations with, all Governmental Authorities that are
required in order to permit it to own or lease its properties
and to conduct its business as presently conducted; all such
permits, licenses, certificates of authority, orders and
approvals are in full force and effect and, to North Easts
knowledge, no suspension or cancellation of any of them is
threatened; and |
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(iii) has received, since December 31, 2002, no
notification or communication from any Governmental Authority
(A) asserting that North East or any of its Subsidiaries is
not in compliance with any of the statutes, regulations or
ordinances that such Governmental Authority enforces or
(B) threatening to revoke any license, franchise, permit or
governmental authorization nor, to North Easts knowledge,
do any grounds for any of the foregoing exist. |
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(k) Material Contracts; Defaults. |
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(i) Except for documents listed as exhibits to North
Easts Securities Documents or as set forth in
Schedule 5.3(k) of the North East Disclosure Schedule,
neither North East nor any of its Subsidiaries is a party to,
bound by or subject to any agreement, contract, arrangement,
commitment or understanding, whether written or oral,
(A) with respect to the employment of any of its directors,
officers, employees or consultants; (B) that would entitle
any present or former director, officer, employee or agent of
North East or any of its Subsidiaries to indemnification from
North East or any of its Subsidiaries; (C) that is a
material contract (as defined in Item 601(b)(10) of
Regulation S-K of the SEC); (D) that is a consulting
agreement, including data processing, software programming and
licensing contracts, not terminable on 60 days or less
notice and involving the payment of more than $12,500 per
annum or (E) that materially restricts the conduct of any
business by North East or by any of its Subsidiaries
(collectively, Material Contracts). North East has
set forth in Schedule 5.3(k) of the North East Disclosure
Schedule and made available to Parent true, correct and complete
copies of each such Material Contract. |
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(ii) Neither North East nor any of its Subsidiaries is in
material default under any contract, agreement, commitment,
arrangement, lease, insurance policy or other instrument to
which it is a party, by which its assets, business or operations
may be bound or affected, or under which it or its respective
assets, business or operations receives benefits, and there has
not occurred any event that, with the lapse of time or the
giving of notice or both, would constitute such a default.
Except as provided in this Agreement, no power of attorney or
similar authorization given directly or indirectly by North East
or any of its Subsidiaries is currently outstanding. |
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(l) No Brokers. Except as set forth in
Schedule 5.3(l) of the North East Disclosure Schedule, no
action has been taken by North East or any of its Subsidiaries
that would give rise to any valid claim against any party hereto
for a brokerage commission, finders fee or other like
payment with respect to the Transaction. |
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(m) Employee Benefit Plans. |
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(i) All benefit and compensation plans, contracts, policies
or arrangements covering current or former employees of North
East and its Subsidiaries and current or former directors of
North East and its Subsidiaries including, but not limited to,
employee benefit plans within the meaning of
Sections 3(1), 3(2), 3(3) and 3(37) of ERISA, and deferred
compensation, stock option, stock purchase, stock appreciation
rights, stock based, incentive and bonus plans (the
Benefit Plans), have been set forth in
Schedule 5.3(m) of the North East Disclosure Schedule. True
and complete copies of the following have been provided or made
available to Parent: (A) all Benefit Plans including, but
not limited to, any trust instruments and insurance contracts
forming a part of any Benefit Plans and all amendments thereto;
(B) the most recent annual report (Form 5500),
together with all schedules, as required, filed with the
Internal Revenue Service (IRS) or Department of
Labor (the DOL), as applicable, and any financial
statements and opinions required by Section 103(e)(3) of
ERISA with respect to each Benefit Plan; (C) for each
Benefit Plan that is a top-hat plan, a copy of
filings with the DOL; (D) the most recent determination
letter issued by |
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the IRS for each Benefit Plan that is intended to be
qualified under Section 401(a) of the Code;
(E) the most recent summary plan description and any
summary of material modifications, as required, for each Benefit
Plan; (F) the most recent actuarial report, if any,
relating to each Benefit Plan; (G) the most recent
actuarial valuation, study or estimate of any retiree medical
and life insurance benefits plan or supplemental retirement
benefits plan and (H) the most recent summary annual report
for each Benefit Plan required to provide summary annual reports
by Section 104 of ERISA. |
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(ii) Each Benefit Plan has been administered to date in all
material respects in accordance with the applicable provisions
of ERISA, the Code and applicable law and with the terms and
provisions of all documents, contracts or agreements pursuant to
which such Benefit Plan is maintained. Each Benefit Plan that is
an employee pension benefit plan within the meaning
of Section 3(2) of ERISA (a Pension Plan) and
that is intended to be qualified under Section 401(a) of
the Code, has received a favorable determination letter from the
IRS or is the adoption of a prototype plan for which the
prototype sponsor has a favorable determination letter from the
IRS, and North East is not aware of any circumstances likely to
result in revocation of any such favorable determination letter
or the loss of the qualification of such Pension Plan under
Section 401(a) of the Code. Neither North East nor any of
its Subsidiaries has received any correspondence or written or
verbal notice from the IRS, DOL, any other governmental agency,
any participant in or beneficiary of, a Benefit Plan or any
agent representing any of the foregoing that brings into
question the qualification of any such Benefit Plan. There is no
material pending or, to North Easts knowledge, threatened
litigation relating to the Benefit Plans. Neither North East nor
any of its Subsidiaries has engaged in a transaction with
respect to any Benefit Plan or Pension Plan that, assuming the
taxable period of such transaction expired as of the date
hereof, could subject North East or any of its Subsidiaries to a
tax or penalty imposed by either Section 4975 of the Code
or Section 502(i) of ERISA. There are no matters pending
before the IRS, DOL or other governmental agency with respect to
any Benefit Plans, nor does North East have knowledge that any
is threatened. |
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(iii) No liability under Subtitle C or D of Title IV
of ERISA has been or to North Easts knowledge is presently
expected to be incurred by North East or any of its Subsidiaries
with respect to any ongoing, frozen or terminated
single-employer plan, within the meaning of
Section 4001(a)(15) of ERISA, currently or formerly
maintained by any of them or the single-employer plan of any
entity that is considered one employer with North East under
Section 4001 of ERISA or Section 414 of the Code (an
ERISA Affiliate). Neither North East nor any of its
Subsidiaries has incurred, and neither expects to incur, to
North Easts knowledge, any withdrawal liability with
respect to a multiemployer plan under Subtitle E of
Title IV of ERISA, regardless of whether based on
contributions of an ERISA Affiliate. No notice of a
reportable event, within the meaning of
Section 4043 of ERISA for which the 30-day reporting
requirement has not been waived, has been required to be filed
for any Pension Plan or by any ERISA Affiliate. |
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(iv) All contributions required to be made under the terms
of any Benefit Plan have been timely made. Neither any Pension
Plan nor any single-employer plan of an ERISA Affiliate has an
accumulated funding deficiency, whether or not
waived, within the meaning of Section 412 of the Code or
Section 302 of ERISA and no ERISA Affiliate has an
outstanding funding waiver. Except as set forth in
Schedule 5.3(m) of the North East Disclosure Schedule,
neither North East nor any of its Subsidiaries has provided, or
is required to provide, security to any Pension Plan or to any
single-employer plan of an ERISA Affiliate pursuant to
Section 401(a)(29) of the Code. |
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(v) Except as set forth in Schedule 5.3(m) of the
North East Disclosure Schedule, neither North East nor any of
its Subsidiaries has any obligations for retiree health and life
benefits under any Benefit Plan, other than coverage as may be
required under Section 4980B of the Code or Part 6 of
Title I of ERISA, or under the continuation of coverage
provisions of the laws of any state or locality. No event or
condition exists with respect to a Benefit Plan that could
subject North East to tax under Section 4980B of the Code. |
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(vi) None of the execution of this Agreement, shareholder
approval of this Agreement or consummation of the Transaction
will, except as set forth in Schedule 5.3(m) of North East
Disclosure Schedule, (A) entitle any employees of North
East or any of its Subsidiaries to severance pay or any increase
in severance pay upon any termination of employment after the
date hereof, (B) accelerate the time of payment or vesting
or trigger any payment or funding, through a grantor trust or
otherwise, of compensation or benefits under, increase the
amount payable or trigger any other material obligation pursuant
to, any of the Benefit Plans, (C) result in any breach or
violation of, or a default under, any of the Benefit Plans or
(D) result in any payment that would be a parachute
payment to a disqualified individual as those
terms are defined in Section 280G of the Code, without
regard to whether such payment is reasonable compensation for
personal services performed or to be performed in the future. |
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(vii) All required reports and descriptions, including but
not limited to Form 5500 annual reports and required
attachments, Forms 1099-R, summary annual reports,
Forms PBGC-1 and summary plan descriptions, have been filed
or distributed appropriately with respect to each Benefit Plan.
All required tax filings with respect to each Benefit Plan have
been made, and any taxes due in connection with such filings
have been paid. |
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(n) Labor Matters. Neither North East nor any
of its Subsidiaries is a party to or is bound by any collective
bargaining agreement, contract or other agreement or
understanding with a labor union or labor organization, nor is
North East or any of its Subsidiaries the subject of a
proceeding asserting that it has committed an unfair labor
practice within the meaning of the National Labor Relations Act
or seeking to compel North East or any of its Subsidiaries to
bargain with any labor organization as to wages or conditions of
employment, nor is there any strike or other labor dispute
involving it or any of its Subsidiaries pending or, to North
Easts knowledge, threatened, nor is North East or any of
its Subsidiaries aware of any activity involving its employees
seeking to certify a collective bargaining unit or engaging in
other organizational activity. |
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(o) Environmental Matters. |
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(i) North East and its Subsidiaries are in compliance with
applicable Environmental Laws; (ii) except as Previously
Disclosed or as set forth in Schedule 5.3(o) of the North
East Disclosure Schedule, to North Easts knowledge, no
real property, including buildings or other structures,
currently or formerly owned or operated by North East or any of
its Subsidiaries, or any property in which North East or any of
its Subsidiaries has held a security interest, Lien or a
fiduciary or management role (North East Loan
Property), has been contaminated with, or has had any
release of, any Hazardous Substance except in compliance with
Environmental Laws; (iii) neither North East nor any of its
Subsidiaries could be deemed the owner or operator of, nor has
it participated in the management regarding Hazardous Substances
of, any North East Loan Property that has been contaminated
with, or has had any release of, any Hazardous Substance;
(iv) neither North East nor any of its Subsidiaries has any
liability for any Hazardous Substance disposal or contamination
on any third party property; (v) neither North East nor any
of its Subsidiaries has received any notice, demand letter,
claim or request for information alleging any violation of, or
liability under, any Environmental Law; (vi) neither North
East nor any of its Subsidiaries is subject to any order,
decree, injunction or other agreement with any Governmental
Authority or any third party relating to any Environmental Law;
(vii) except as set forth in Schedule 5.3(o) of the
North East Disclosure Schedule, to North Easts knowledge,
there are no circumstances or conditions (including the presence
of asbestos, underground storage tanks, lead products,
polychlorinated biphenyls, prior manufacturing operations,
dry-cleaning or automotive services) involving North East or any
of its Subsidiaries, any currently or formerly owned or operated
property, or any North East Loan Property, that could reasonably
be expected to result in any claims, liability or investigations
against North East or any of its Subsidiaries, result in any
restrictions on the ownership, use or transfer of any property
pursuant to any Environmental Law or adversely affect the value
of any North East Loan Property, (viii) North East has set
forth in Schedule 5.3(o) of the North East Disclosure
Schedule and made available to Parent copies of all
environmental reports or |
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studies, sampling data, correspondence and filings in its
possession or reasonably available to it relating to North East,
its Subsidiaries and any currently owned or operated property of
North East and (ix) North East has made available to Parent
copies of all environmental reports or studies, sampling data,
correspondence and filings in the possession or reasonably
available to it relating to any North East Loan. |
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(ii) As used herein, the term Environmental
Laws means any federal, state or local law, regulation,
order, decree, permit, authorization, opinion or agency
requirement relating to: (A) the protection or restoration
of the environment, health, safety or natural resources;
(B) the handling, use, presence, disposal, release or
threatened release of any Hazardous Substance or
(C) wetlands, indoor air, pollution, contamination or any
injury or threat of injury to persons or property in connection
with any Hazardous Substance; and the term Hazardous
Substance means any substance that is: (A) listed,
classified or regulated pursuant to any Environmental Law;
(B) any petroleum product or by-product,
asbestos-containing material, lead-containing paint or plumbing,
polychlorinated biphenyls, radioactive materials or radon or
(C) any other substance that is the subject of regulatory
action by any Governmental Authority in connection with any
Environmental Law. |
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(i) (A) All Tax Returns that are required to be filed
on or before the Effective Date (taking into account any
extensions of time within which to file that have not expired)
by or with respect to the North East Group, including North East
and its Subsidiaries, have been or will be timely filed on or
before the Effective Date; (B) all such Tax Returns are or
will be true and complete in all material respects; (C) all
Taxes due of the North East Group, including North East and its
Subsidiaries, whether or not shown on any Tax Returns referred
to in clause (A) have been or will be timely paid in
full; (D) the Tax Returns referred to in
clause (A) have not been examined by the IRS or the
appropriate Tax authority, the North East Group has not extended
the statute of limitations for any such Tax Returns and the
period for assessment of the Taxes in respect of which such Tax
Returns were required to be filed has expired; (E) all
deficiencies asserted or assessments made as a result of
examinations conducted by any Governmental Authority have been
paid in full; (F) no issues that have been raised by the
relevant Governmental Authority in connection with the
examination of any of the Tax Returns referred to in
clause (A) are currently pending and (G) no
member of the North East Group has extended any statutes of
limitation with respect to any Taxes of North East. |
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(ii) North East has made available to Parent true and
correct copies of the United States federal income Tax Returns
filed by North East for each of the three most recent fiscal
years for which such returns have been filed. |
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(iii) Neither North East nor any of its Subsidiaries has
any liability with respect to income, franchise or similar Taxes
that accrued on or before the end of the most recent period
covered by North Easts Securities Documents filed prior to
the date hereof in excess of the amounts accrued or subject to a
reserve with respect thereto that are reflected in the financial
statements included in North Easts Securities Documents
filed on or prior to the date hereof. |
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(iv) Neither North East nor any of its Subsidiaries is a
party to any Tax allocation or sharing agreement, is or has been
a member of an affiliated group filing consolidated or combined
Tax Returns other than a group the common parent of which is or
was North East or otherwise has any liability for the Taxes of
any Person other than a member of the North East Group, as a
transferee or successor, by contract, or otherwise. |
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(v) No closing agreements, private letter rulings,
technical advice memoranda or similar agreements or rulings have
been entered into or issued by any Governmental Authority with
respect to North East and its Subsidiaries. |
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(vi) Neither North East nor any of its Subsidiaries
maintains any compensation plans, programs or arrangements the
payments under which would not reasonably be expected to be
deductible as a result of the limitations under
Section 162(m) of the Code and the regulations issued
thereunder. |
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(vii) As of the date hereof, North East has no reason to
believe that any conditions exist that might prevent or impede
the Merger from qualifying as a reorganization within the
meaning of Section 368(a) of the Code. |
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(viii) (A) No Tax is required to be withheld pursuant
to Section 1445 of the Code as a result of the Transaction
and (B) all Taxes that North East or any of its
Subsidiaries is or was required by law to withhold or collect
have been duly withheld or collected and, to the extent required
by applicable law, have been paid to the proper Governmental
Authority or other Person. |
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(ix) There are no Liens for Taxes on any of the assets of
North East or any of its Subsidiaries, except for Liens for
Taxes not yet due and payable. |
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(x) Neither North East nor any of its Subsidiaries
(A) has agreed, or is required, to make any adjustment
under Section 481(a) of the Code or any comparable
provision of state, local or foreign law or has any knowledge
that a Governmental Authority has proposed any such adjustment
or change in accounting method with respect to North East or its
Subsidiaries or (B) has any application pending with any
Governmental Authority requesting permission for any change in
accounting method. |
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(xi) Neither North East nor any of its Subsidiaries is a
successor for Tax purposes to any Person by way of merger,
reorganization or similar transaction. |
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(xii) No claim has ever been made by a Governmental
Authority in a jurisdiction where North East or any of its
Subsidiaries does not file Tax Returns that North East or such
Subsidiaries is or may be subject to taxation by that
jurisdiction. |
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(xiii) Neither North East nor any of its Subsidiaries has
been the distributing corporation within the meaning
of Section 355(c)(2) of the Code or has been the subject of
a distribution with respect to a transaction described in
Section 355 of the Code within the five-year period ending
as of the date of this Agreement. |
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(xiv) Neither North East nor any of its Subsidiaries has
participated in any reportable transaction or
listed transaction that is required to be reported
pursuant to Section 1.6011-4 of the Treasury Regulations. |
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(xv) Neither North East nor any of its Subsidiaries is
required to include any item of income in, or exclude any item
of deduction or loss from, taxable income for any taxable period
or portion thereof beginning on or after the Closing Date as a
result of (i) a change in method of accounting for a
taxable period beginning prior to the Closing Date,
(ii) any closing agreement, as described in
Section 7121 of the Code, or any corresponding provision of
state, local or foreign law, executed on or before the Closing
Date, (iii) any sale reported on the installment method
where such sale occurred on or prior to the Closing Date,
(iv) any prepaid amount received by North East or any of
its Subsidiaries on or prior to the Closing Date of (v) any
intercompany transactions or excess loss account described in
Treasury Regulations under Section 1502 of the Code, or any
corresponding provision of state, local or foreign law. |
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(xvi) Neither North East nor any of its Subsidiaries have
pending any ruling requests filed by it or on its behalf with
any Governmental Authority. |
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(xvii) Neither North East nor any of its Subsidiaries has
made any payments, is obligated to make any payments or is a
party to any agreement that under certain circumstances could
obligate it to make any payments that would constitute
excess parachute payments under Section 280G of
the Code, or any corresponding provision of state, local or
foreign law, and neither North East nor |
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any of its Subsidiaries is obligated to gross-up or
otherwise compensate any Person for any Tax liability incurred
by such Person under Sections 4999 or 409A of the Code. |
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(q) Risk Management Instruments. Neither
North East nor any of its Subsidiaries is a party or has agreed
to enter into an exchange traded or over-the-counter equity,
interest rate, foreign exchange or other swap, forward, future,
option, cap, floor or collar or any other contract that is not
included on North Easts consolidated statement of
financial condition and is a derivatives contract (including
various combinations thereof) (each, a Derivatives
Contract) nor does North East or any of its Subsidiaries
own securities that (i) are referred to generically as
structured notes, high risk mortgage
derivatives, capped floating rate notes or
capped floating rate mortgage derivatives or
(ii) are likely to have changes in value as a result of
interest or exchange rate changes that significantly exceed
normal changes in value attributable to interest or exchange
rate changes. |
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(r) Loans; Nonperforming and Classified
Assets. |
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(i) Except as set forth in Schedule 5.3(r) of the
North East Disclosure Schedule, each Loan on the books and
records of North East and its Subsidiaries was made and has been
serviced in all material respects in accordance with their
customary lending standards in the ordinary course of business,
is evidenced in all material respects by appropriate and
sufficient documentation and, to the knowledge of North East,
constitutes the legal, valid and binding obligation of the
obligor named therein, subject to bankruptcy, insolvency,
reorganization, moratorium, fraudulent transfer and similar laws
of general applicability relating to or affecting
creditors rights or by general equity principles. |
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(ii) North East has set forth in Schedule 5.3(r) of
the North East Disclosure Schedule as to North East and each
North East Subsidiary as of the latest practicable date prior to
the date of this Agreement: (A) any written or, to North
Easts knowledge, oral Loan under the terms of which the
obligor is 60 or more days delinquent in payment of principal or
interest, or to North Easts knowledge, in default of any
other material provision thereof; (B) each Loan that has
been classified as substandard,
doubtful, loss or special
mention or words of similar import by North East, a North
East Subsidiary or an applicable regulatory authority;
(C) a listing of the OREO acquired by foreclosure or by
deed-in-lieu thereof, including the book value thereof and
(D) each Loan with any director, executive officer or five
percent or greater shareholder of North East or a North East
Subsidiary, or to the knowledge of North East, any Person
controlling, controlled by or under common control with any of
the foregoing. |
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(s) Properties. All real and personal
property owned by North East or a Subsidiary of North East or
presently used by any of them in their respective business is in
an adequate condition, ordinary wear and tear excepted, and is
sufficient to carry on its business in the ordinary course of
business consistent with its past practices. North East has good
and marketable fee simple title free and clear of all Liens to
all of the material properties and assets, real and personal,
reflected on the consolidated statement of financial condition
of North East as of December 31, 2004 included in North
Easts Securities Documents or acquired after such date,
other than properties sold by North East in the ordinary course
of business, except (i) Liens for current taxes and
assessments not yet due or payable, (ii) pledges to secure
deposits and other Liens incurred in the ordinary course of its
banking business and (iii) such imperfections of title,
easements and encumbrances, if any, as are not material in
character, amount or extent and as are reflected on the
consolidated statement of financial condition of North East as
of December 31, 2004 included in North Easts
Securities Documents. Except as set forth in
Schedule 5.3(s) of the North East Disclosure Schedule, all
real and personal property that is material to North Easts
business on a consolidated basis and leased or licensed by North
East or a Subsidiary of North East is held pursuant to leases or
licenses that are valid and enforceable in accordance with their
respective terms and such leases will not terminate or lapse
prior to the Effective Time. |
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(t) Intellectual Property. North East and
each Subsidiary of North East owns or possesses valid and
binding licenses and other rights to use without payment of any
material amount all material patents, copyrights, trade secrets,
trade names, service marks and trademarks used in its
businesses, all of which |
A-22
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have been Previously Disclosed by North East, and none of North
East or any of its Subsidiaries has received any notice of
conflict with respect thereto that asserts the right of others.
North East and each of its Subsidiaries have performed in all
material respects all the obligations required to be performed
by them and are not in default under any contract, agreement,
arrangement or commitment relating to any of the foregoing.
Schedule 5.3(t) to the North East Disclosure Schedule sets
forth a description of all patents, trademarks, copyrights,
service marks and all licenses relating to intellectual property
rights of North East and each Subsidiary of North East,
including, without limitation, patents, trademarks, copyrights,
service marks and all licenses relating thereto. |
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(u) Fiduciary Accounts. North East and its
Subsidiaries do not administer accounts for which they act as a
fiduciary, including but not limited to accounts for which it
serves as a trustee, agent, custodian, personal representative,
guardian, conservator or investment advisor, in accordance with
the terms of the governing documents and applicable laws and
regulations. |
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(v) Books and Records. The books and records
of North East and its Subsidiaries have been fully, properly and
accurately maintained in material compliance with applicable
legal and accounting requirements, and such books and records
accurately reflect in all material respects all dealings and
transactions in respect of the business, assets, liabilities and
affairs of North East and its Subsidiaries. |
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(w) Insurance. North East has set forth in
Schedule 5.3(w) of the North East Disclosure Schedule a
description of all of the material insurance policies, binders
or bonds currently maintained by North East and its Subsidiaries
(Insurance Policies). North East and its
Subsidiaries are insured with reputable insurers against such
risks and in such amounts as the management of North East
reasonably has determined to be prudent in accordance with
industry practices. All the Insurance Policies are in full force
and effect; North East and its Subsidiaries are not in material
default thereunder and all claims thereunder have been filed in
due and timely fashion. |
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(x) Allowance For Loan Losses. North
Easts allowance for loan losses is sufficient at the date
of this Agreement for its reasonably anticipated loan losses, is
in compliance with the standards established by applicable
Governmental Authorities and GAAP and, to the knowledge of North
East, is adequate. |
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(y) Required Vote. A Majority Vote of the
holders of the outstanding shares of North East Common Stock is
necessary to approve this Agreement and the Merger on behalf of
North East. No other vote of the shareholders of North East is
required by law, the North East Articles, the North East Bylaws
or otherwise to approve this Agreement and the Merger. |
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(z) Fairness Opinion. The North East Board
has received an opinion of Boenning & Scattergood, Inc.
to the effect that as of the date hereof the Merger
Consideration is fair to the holders of North East Common Stock
from a financial point of view. |
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(aa) Absence of Certain Changes or Events. |
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(i) Except as publicly disclosed in the North East
Securities Documents filed prior to the date of this Agreement,
since January 1, 2005, no event or events have occurred
that have had or are reasonably likely to have, either
individually or in the aggregate, a North East Material Adverse
Effect. |
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(ii) Except as publicly disclosed in North East Securities
Documents filed prior to the date of this Agreement, North East
and its Subsidiaries have carried on their respective business
in all material respects in the ordinary course. |
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(bb) Disclosure. The representations and
warranties contained in this Section 5.3, when considered
as a whole, do not contain any untrue statement of a material
fact or omit to state any material fact necessary in order to
make the statements and information contained in this
Section 5.3 not misleading. |
A-23
5.4 Representations and
Warranties of Parent. Subject to Sections 5.1 and
5.2, Parent hereby represents and warrants to North East as
follows:
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(a) Organization, Standing and Authority.
Parent is duly organized, validly existing and in good standing
under the laws of the State of Florida. Parent is duly qualified
to do business and is in good standing in each jurisdiction
where its ownership or leasing of property or assets or the
conduct of its business requires it to be so qualified, except
where the failure to be so qualified would not have a Material
Adverse Effect on Parent. Parent has in effect all federal,
state, local and foreign governmental authorizations necessary
for it to own or lease its properties and assets and to carry on
its business as it is now conducted. |
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(b) Parent Stock. |
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(i) As of the date hereof, the authorized capital stock of
Parent consists solely of 500,000,000 shares of Parent
Common Stock, of which 56,274,780 shares were issued and
outstanding as of March 31, 2005, and
20,000,000 shares of Parent Preferred Stock, of which no
shares were issued and outstanding as of the date hereof. The
outstanding shares of Parent Common Stock have been duly
authorized and validly issued and are fully paid and
non-assessable, and none of the shares of Parent Common Stock
have been issued in violation of the preemptive rights of any
Person. As of the date hereof, there are no Rights authorized,
issued or outstanding with respect to the capital stock of
Parent, except for shares of Parent Common Stock issuable
pursuant to the Parent Benefits Plans and by virtue of this
Agreement. |
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(ii) The shares of Parent Common Stock to be issued in
exchange for shares of North East Common Stock in the Merger,
when issued in accordance with the terms of this Agreement, will
be duly authorized, validly issued, fully paid and nonassessable
and the issuance thereof is not subject to any preemptive right. |
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(i) Each of Parents Subsidiaries has been duly
organized and is validly existing in good standing under the
laws of the jurisdiction of its organization, and is duly
qualified to do business and is in good standing in the
jurisdictions where its ownership or leasing of property or the
conduct of its business requires it to be so qualified, except
where the failure to be so qualified would not have a Material
Adverse Effect on Parent. Parent Bank is duly licensed by the
OCC and its deposits are insured by the Bank Insurance Fund in
the manner and to the maximum extent provided by law. |
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(ii) As of the date hereof, (A) except as set forth in
Schedule 5.4(c) of Parents Disclosure Schedule,
Parent owns, directly or indirectly, all the issued and
outstanding equity securities of each of its Subsidiaries;
(B) no equity securities of any of Parents
Subsidiaries are or may become required to be issued other than
to Parent by reason of any Right or otherwise; (C) there
are no contracts, commitments, understandings or arrangements by
which Parents Subsidiaries are or may be bound to sell or
otherwise transfer any of its equity securities other than to
Parent or any of its wholly owned Subsidiaries and
(D) there are no contracts, commitments, understandings or
arrangements relating to Parents right to vote or to
dispose of such securities. |
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(d) Corporate Power. Each of Parent and its
Subsidiaries has the corporate power and authority to carry on
its business as it is now being conducted and to own all its
properties and assets. Parent has the corporate power and
authority to execute, deliver and perform its obligations under
this Agreement and to consummate the Transaction, subject to the
receipt of all necessary approvals of Governmental Authorities,
and no other corporate proceedings are necessary on the part of
Parent to approve this Agreement or the consummation of the
Transaction. |
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(e) Corporate Authority. This Agreement and
the Transaction have been authorized by all necessary corporate
action of Parent and the Parent Board. This Agreement has been
duly executed and delivered by Parent and, assuming due
authorization, execution and delivery by North East, this
Agreement is a valid and legally binding agreement of Parent
enforceable in accordance with its terms, |
A-24
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except as enforceability may be limited by applicable
bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium, fraudulent
transfer and similar laws of general applicability relating to
or affecting creditors rights or by general equity
principles. |
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(f) Regulatory Approvals; No Defaults. |
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(i) No consents or approvals of, or waivers by, or filings
or registrations with, any Governmental Authority or with any
third party are required to be made or obtained by Parent or any
of its Subsidiaries in connection with the execution, delivery
or performance by Parent and Parent Bank of this Agreement and
the Bank Merger Agreement, respectively, or to consummate the
Transaction, except as Previously Disclosed, and except for
(A) filings of applications or notices with and approvals
or waivers by the Federal Reserve Board, the OCC and the FDIC;
(B) filings with the SEC and state securities authorities,
as applicable, in connection with the registration of Parent
Common Stock issuable in the Merger and (C) the approval of
the listing on the NYSE of the Parent Common Stock to be issued
in the Merger and (D) the filing of Articles of Merger with
the Secretary of State of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
pursuant to the PBCL and with the Secretary of State of the
State of Florida pursuant to the FLBC with respect to the
Merger. As of the date hereof, Parent is not aware of any reason
why the approvals set forth above and referred to in
Section 7.1(b) will not be received in a timely manner and
without the imposition of a condition, restriction or
requirement of the type described in Section 7.1(b). |
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(ii) Subject to receipt, or the making, of the consents,
approvals, waivers and filings referred to in the preceding
paragraph and expiration of the related waiting periods, the
execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement and the
Bank Merger Agreement by Parent and Parent Bank, respectively,
and the consummation of the Transaction do not and will not
(A) constitute a breach or violation of, or a default
under, or give rise to any Lien, any acceleration of remedies or
any right of termination under, any law, rule or regulation or
any judgment, decree, order, governmental permit or license, or
agreement, indenture or instrument of Parent or of any of its
Subsidiaries or to which Parent or any of its Subsidiaries or
properties is subject or bound, (B) constitute a breach or
violation of, or a default under, the articles of incorporation
or bylaws or similar governing documents of Parent or any of its
Subsidiaries or (C) require any consent or approval under
any such law, rule, regulation, judgment, decree, order,
governmental permit or license, agreement, indenture or
instrument. |
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(g) Financial Reports and Securities Documents;
Material Adverse Effect. |
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(i) Parents Annual Report on Form 10-K for the
years ended December 31, 2004, 2003 and 2002 and all other
reports, registration statements, definitive proxy statements or
information statements filed or to be filed by it subsequent to
December 31, 2002 under the Securities Act, or under
Sections 13(a), 13(c), 14 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act in
the form filed or to be filed (collectively, Parents
Securities Documents) with the SEC, as of the date
filed or to be filed, (A) complied or will comply in all
material respects as to form with the applicable requirements
under the Securities Act or the Exchange Act, as the case may be
and (B) did not and will not contain any untrue statement
of a material fact or omit to state a material fact required to
be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein,
in the light of the circumstances under which they were made,
not misleading, except that information as of a later date shall
be deemed to modify information as of an earlier date. Each of
the consolidated statements of financial condition contained in
or incorporated by reference into any such Securities Document,
including the related notes and schedules thereto, fairly
presents, or will fairly present, the consolidated financial
position of Parent and its Subsidiaries as of its date, and each
of the consolidated statements of operations, shareholders
equity and comprehensive income and cash flows or equivalent
statements in such Securities Documents, including any related
notes and schedules thereto, fairly presents, or will fairly
present, the consolidated results of operations, changes in
shareholders equity and cash flows, as the case may be, of
Parent and its Subsidiaries for the periods to which they
relate, in each case in |
A-25
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accordance with GAAP consistently applied during the periods
involved, except in each case as may be noted therein. |
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(ii) Except as Previously Disclosed, since
December 31, 2004, neither Parent nor any of its
Subsidiaries has incurred any liability other than in the
ordinary course of business consistent with past practice,
excluding the incurrence of expenses related to this Agreement
and the Transaction. |
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(iii) Since December 31, 2004, (A) Parent and its
Subsidiaries have conducted their respective businesses in the
ordinary and usual course consistent with past practice
(excluding the incurrence of expenses related to this Agreement
and the Transaction); (B) except as Previously Disclosed,
neither Parent nor any of its Subsidiaries has taken nor
permitted any of the actions set forth in Section 4.2
between December 31, 2004 and the date hereof and
(C) no event has occurred or circumstance arisen that,
individually or taken together with all other facts,
circumstances and events described in any paragraph of this
Section 5.4 or otherwise, is reasonably likely to have a
Material Adverse Effect with respect to Parent. |
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(iv) Parent maintains disclosure controls and procedures
required by Rule 13a-15 or 15d-15 under the Exchange Act;
such controls and procedures are effective to ensure that all
material information concerning Parent and its Subsidiaries is
made known on a timely basis to the individuals responsible for
the preparation of Parents Securities Documents and other
public disclosure documents. The Chief Executive Officer and the
Chief Financial Officer of Parent have signed, and Parent has
furnished to the SEC, all certifications required by
Rule 13a-14 or 15d-14 under the Exchange Act or
18 U.S.C. § 1350; such certifications contain no
qualifications or exceptions to the matters certified therein
and have not been modified or withdrawn; and neither Parent nor
any of its officers has received notice from any Governmental
Authorities questioning or challenging the accuracy,
completeness, form or manner of filing or submission of such
certifications. |
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(h) Litigation. No litigation, claim or other
proceeding before any court or governmental agency is pending
against Parent or its Subsidiaries that could reasonably be
expected to have a Material Adverse Effect with respect to
Parent and, to Parents knowledge, no such litigation,
claim or other proceeding has been threatened and there are no
facts that could reasonably give rise to such litigation, claim
or other proceeding. Neither Parent nor any of its Subsidiaries
is a party to any order, judgment or decree that has or could
reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect with
respect to Parent. |
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(i) Regulatory Matters. |
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(i) Neither Parent nor any of its Subsidiaries nor any of
any of their respective properties is a party to or is subject
to any order or decree, agreement, memorandum of understanding
or similar arrangement with, or commitment letter or similar
submission to, or extraordinary supervisory letter from, any
federal or state governmental agency or authority charged with
the supervision or regulation of financial institutions or
issuers of securities or engaged in the insurance of deposits or
the supervision or regulation of it (Parent Regulatory
Authorities). Parent and its Subsidiaries have paid all
assessments made or imposed by any Parent Regulatory Authority. |
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(ii) Neither Parent nor any its Subsidiaries has been
advised by, and does not have any knowledge of facts that could
give rise to an advisory notice by, any Parent Regulatory
Authority that such Parent Regulatory Authority is contemplating
issuing or requesting, or is considering the appropriateness of
issuing or requesting, any such order, decree, agreement,
memorandum of understanding, commitment letter, supervisory
letter or similar submission. |
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(iii) Parent and each of its Subsidiaries have timely filed
all reports, registrations and statements, together with any
amendments required to be made with respect thereto, that they
were required to file since January 1, 2002 with
(A) the Federal Reserve Board, (B) the FDIC,
(C) the OCC, (D) any state regulatory authority and
(E) the SEC, and all other reports and statements required
to be filed by them since January 1, 2002, and have paid
all fees and assessments due and payable in connection
therewith. Except as set forth in Schedule 5.4(i) of Parent
Disclosure |
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Schedule and except for normal examinations conducted by Bank
Regulatory Authorities, (A) no Bank Regulatory Authority
has initiated Ror has pending any proceeding or, to the
knowledge of Parent, investigation into the business or
operations of Parent or any of its Subsidiaries since
January 1, 2002, except where such proceedings or
investigation are not reasonably likely to have, either
individually or in the aggregate, a Parent Material Adverse
Effect and (B) there is no unresolved violation, criticism
or exception by any Bank Regulatory Authority with respect to
the business, operations, policies or procedures of Parent or
Parent Bank since January 1, 2002 that are reasonably
likely to have, either individually or in the aggregate, a
Parent Material Adverse Effect. |
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(j) Compliance With Laws. Except for matters
that could not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse
Effect with respect to Parent and its Subsidiaries, each of
Parent and its Subsidiaries: |
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(i) is in material compliance with all applicable federal,
state, local and foreign statutes, laws, regulations,
ordinances, rules, judgments, orders or decrees applicable
thereto or to the employees conducting such businesses,
including without limitation Sections 23A and 23B of the
Federal Reserve Act, FDIC and OCC regulations pursuant thereto,
the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, the Fair Housing Act, the
Community Reinvestment Act, the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act,
the Bank Secrecy Act and all other applicable fair lending laws
and other laws relating to discriminatory business practices; |
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(ii) has all permits, licenses, authorizations, orders and
approvals of, and has made all filings, applications and
registrations with, all Governmental Authorities that are
required in order to permit them to own or lease their
properties and to conduct their businesses as presently
conducted; all such permits, licenses, certificates of
authority, orders and approvals are in full force and effect
and, to Parents knowledge, no suspension or cancellation
of any of them is threatened; and |
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(iii) has received, since December 31, 2002, no
notification or communication from any Governmental Authority
(A) asserting that Parent or any of its Subsidiaries is not
in compliance with any of the statutes, regulations or
ordinances which such Governmental Authority enforces or
(B) threatening to revoke any license, franchise, permit or
governmental authorization nor, to Parents knowledge, do
any grounds for any of the foregoing exist. |
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(k) No Brokers. No action has been taken by
Parent or its Subsidiaries that would give rise to any valid
claim against any party hereto for a brokerage commission,
finders fee or other like payment with respect to the
Transaction. |
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(l) Tax Matters. As of the date hereof,
Parent does not have any reason to believe that any conditions
exist that might prevent or impede the Merger from qualifying as
a reorganization within the meaning of Section 368(a) of
the Code. |
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(m) Risk Management Instruments. Neither
Parent nor any of its Subsidiaries is a party to, or has agreed
to enter into, any Derivatives Contract that is not included on
Parents consolidated statement of financial condition nor
does Parent or any of its Subsidiaries own securities that
(i) are referred to generically as structured
notes, high risk mortgage derivatives,
capped floating rate notes or capped floating
rate mortgage derivatives or (ii) are likely to have
changes in value as a result of interest or exchange rate
changes that significantly exceed normal changes in value
attributable to interest or exchange rate changes. |
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(n) Ownership of North East Common Stock.
Except as set forth on Schedule 5.4(n) of the Parent
Disclosure Schedule, none of Parent or any of its Subsidiaries,
or to Parents knowledge, any of its other affiliates or
associates as such terms are defined under the Exchange Act,
owns beneficially or of record, directly or indirectly, or is a
party to any agreement, arrangement or understanding for the
purpose of acquiring, holding, voting or disposing of, shares of
North East Common Stock other than shares held in a fiduciary
capacity that are beneficially owned by third parties or as a
result of debts previously contracted. |
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(o) Disclosure. The representations and
warranties contained in this Section 5.4, when considered
as a whole, do not contain any untrue statement of a material
fact or omit to state any material fact necessary in order to
make the statements and information contained in this
Section 5.4 not misleading. |
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(p) Absence of Certain Changes or Events. |
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(i) Except as publicly disclosed in the Parent Securities
Documents filed prior to the date of this Agreement, since
January 1, 2005, no event or events have occurred that have
had or are reasonably likely to have, either individually or in
the aggregate, a Parent Material Adverse Effect. |
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(ii) Except as publicly disclosed in the Parent Securities
Documents filed prior to the date of this Agreement, Parent and
its Subsidiaries have carried on their respective businesses in
all material respects in the ordinary course. |
ARTICLE VI
COVENANTS
6.1 Reasonable Best
Efforts. Subject to the terms and conditions of this
Agreement, each of North East, Parent and their Subsidiaries
agrees to use its reasonable best efforts in good faith to take,
or cause to be taken, all actions, and to do, or cause to be
done, all things necessary, proper or desirable, or advisable
under applicable laws, so as to permit consummation of the
Transaction as promptly as practicable and otherwise to enable
consummation of the Transaction, including the satisfaction of
the conditions set forth in Article VII, and shall
cooperate fully with the other party hereto to that end.
6.2 Shareholder
Meeting. North East shall take, in accordance with
applicable law and the North East Articles and the North East
Bylaws, all action necessary to duly call, give notice of,
convene and hold as soon as reasonably practicable after the
date on which the Registration Statement becomes effective a
special meeting of its shareholders (including any adjournment
or postponement, the North East Meeting) to consider
and vote upon the approval of this Agreement and any other
matters required to be approved by North Easts
shareholders for consummation of the Transaction unless this
Agreement shall have been terminated in accordance with its
terms. Subject to the right of North East and its Board of
Directors to take any action permitted by Section 6.8(b)
with respect to a Superior Proposal, North East shall, through
its Board of Directors, recommend to its shareholders approval
of this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby and
shall take all reasonable lawful action to solicit such approval
by its shareholders (the Approval Recommendation).
6.3 Registration
Statement.
(a) Parent agrees to prepare a registration statement on
Form S-4 or other applicable form (the Registration
Statement) to be filed by Parent with the SEC in
connection with the issuance of Parent Common Stock in the
Merger including the proxy statement and prospectus and other
proxy solicitation materials of North East constituting a part
thereof (the Proxy Statement) and all related
documents. North East shall prepare and furnish such information
relating to it and its directors, officers and shareholders as
may be reasonably required in connection with the above
referenced documents based on its knowledge of and access to the
information required for said documents, and North East, and its
legal, financial and accounting advisors, shall have the right
to review in advance such Registration Statement prior to its
filing. North East agrees to cooperate with Parent and
Parents counsel and accountants in requesting and
obtaining appropriate opinions, consents and letters from its
financial advisor and independent auditor in connection with the
Registration Statement and the Proxy Statement. Provided that
North East has cooperated as described above, Parent agrees to
file, or cause to be filed, the Registration Statement and the
Proxy Statement with the SEC as promptly as reasonably
practicable. Each of North East and Parent agrees to use its
reasonable best efforts to cause the Registration Statement to
be declared effective under the Securities Act as promptly as
reasonably practicable after the filing thereof. Parent also
agrees to use its reasonable best efforts to obtain all
necessary state securities law or Blue Sky permits
and approvals required to carry out the transactions
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contemplated by this Agreement. After the Registration Statement
is declared effective under the Securities Act, North East shall
promptly mail at its expense the Proxy Statement to its
shareholders.
(b) Each of North East and Parent agrees that none of the
information supplied or to be supplied by it for inclusion or
incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement shall,
at the time the Registration Statement and each amendment or
supplement thereto, if any, becomes effective under the
Securities Act, contain any untrue statement of a material fact
or omit to state any material fact required to be stated therein
or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading. Each
of North East and Parent agrees that none of the information
supplied or to be supplied by it for inclusion or incorporation
by reference in the Proxy Statement and any amendment or
supplement thereto shall, at the date of mailing to North
Easts shareholders and at the time of the North East
Meeting, contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit
to state any material fact required to be stated therein or
necessary to make the statements therein not misleading. Each of
North East and Parent further agrees that if such party shall
become aware prior to the Effective Date of any information
furnished by such party that would cause any of the statements
in the Registration Statement or the Proxy Statement to be false
or misleading with respect to any material fact, or to omit to
state any material fact necessary to make the statements therein
not false or misleading, to promptly inform the other parties
thereof and to take the necessary steps to correct the
Registration Statement or the Proxy Statement.
(c) Parent agrees to advise North East, promptly after
Parent receives notice thereof, of the time when the
Registration Statement has become effective or any supplement or
amendment has been filed, of the issuance of any stop order or
the suspension of the qualification of Parent Common Stock for
offering or sale in any jurisdiction, of the initiation or, to
the extent Parent is aware thereof, threat of any proceeding for
any such purpose, or of any request by the SEC for the amendment
or supplement of the Registration Statement or for additional
information.
6.4 Regulatory
Filings.
(a) Each of Parent and North East and their respective
Subsidiaries shall cooperate and use their respective reasonable
best efforts to prepare all documentation, to effect all filings
and to obtain all permits, consents, approvals and
authorizations of all third parties and Governmental Authorities
necessary to consummate the Transaction; and any initial filings
with Governmental Authorities shall be made by Parent as soon as
reasonably practicable after the execution hereof. Each of
Parent and North East shall have the right to review in advance,
and to the extent practicable each shall consult with the other,
in each case subject to applicable laws relating to the exchange
of information, all written information submitted to any third
party or any Governmental Authority in connection with the
Transaction. In exercising the foregoing right, each of such
parties agrees to act reasonably and as promptly as practicable
and shall, in any event, provide its response to any proposed
filing within five business days after its receipt of the
proposed filing from the other party. Each party hereto agrees
that it shall consult with the other party with respect to the
obtaining of all permits, consents, approvals, waivers and
authorizations of all third parties and Governmental Authorities
necessary or advisable to consummate the Transaction, and each
party shall keep the other parties apprised of the status of
material matters relating to completion of the Transaction.
(b) Each party agrees, upon request, to furnish the other
parties with all information concerning itself, its
Subsidiaries, directors, officers and shareholders and such
other matters as may be reasonably necessary or advisable in
connection with any filing, notice or application made by or on
behalf of such other parties or any of their respective
Subsidiaries to any third party or Governmental Authority.
6.5 Press Releases.
North East and Parent shall consult with each other before
issuing any press release with respect to the Transaction or
this Agreement and shall not issue any such press release or
make any such public statements without the prior consent of the
other party, which shall not be unreasonably withheld; provided,
however, that a party may, without the prior consent of the
other party, but after such consultation, to the extent
practicable under the circumstances, issue such press release or
make such public statements as may upon the advice of outside
counsel be required by law or the rules or regulations of the
SEC, the NYSE or the NASD. North East and Parent shall cooperate
to develop all public announcement
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materials and make appropriate management available at
presentations related to the Transaction as reasonably requested
by the other party.
6.6 Access;
Information.
(a) North East agrees that upon reasonable notice and
subject to applicable laws relating to the exchange of
information, it shall afford Parent and Parents officers,
employees, counsel, accountants and other authorized
representatives such access during normal business hours
throughout the period prior to the Effective Time to the books,
records, including, without limitation, Tax Returns and work
papers of independent auditors, properties and personnel of
North East and to such other information relating to North East
as Parent may reasonably request and, during such period, it
shall furnish promptly to Parent all information concerning the
business, properties and personnel of North East as Parent may
reasonably request.
(b) Parent agrees that upon reasonable notice and subject
to applicable laws relating to the exchange of information, it
shall afford North East and North Easts officers,
employees, counsel, accountants and other authorized
representatives such access during normal business hours
throughout the period prior to the Effective Time to the books,
records, including without limitation, Tax Returns and work
papers of independent auditors, properties and personnel of
Parent and to such other information relating to Parent as North
East may reasonably request and, during such period, it shall
furnish promptly to North East all information concerning the
business, properties and personnel of Parent and its
Subsidiaries as North East may reasonably request.
(c) All information furnished to either party by the other
party pursuant to this Agreement shall be subject to, and such
receiving party shall hold all such information in confidence in
accordance with the provisions of the Confidentiality
Agreements, dated as of March 12, 2005 and April 15,
2005 between Parent and North East (the Confidentiality
Agreements).
(d) As soon as reasonably available but in no event more
than five business days after filing, North East will deliver to
Parent each report, financial or otherwise, filed by it or North
East Bank with any Bank Regulatory Authority or the FDIC.
(e) Within 20 calendar days after the end of each month,
North East will deliver to Parent the unaudited consolidated
balance sheet and unaudited consolidated statement of operations
of North East for the immediately preceding month prepared in
accordance with GAAP except for the absence of footnotes and
subject to year end audit and adjustment or as otherwise noted
therein.
6.7 Affiliates. North
East shall use its reasonable best efforts to identify those
persons who may be deemed to be affiliates of North
East within the meaning of Rule 145 promulgated by the SEC under
the Securities Act and to cause each person so identified to
deliver to Parent as soon as practicable, and in any event prior
to the date of the North East Meeting, a written agreement to
comply with the requirements of Rule 145 under the
Securities Act in connection with the sale or other transfer of
Parent Common Stock received in the Merger, which agreement
shall be in the form attached as Annex B (the
Affiliate Letter).
6.8 Certain Actions.
(a) From the date of this Agreement through the Effective
Time, except as otherwise permitted by this Section 6.8,
North East will not, and will not authorize or permit any of its
directors, officers, agents, employees, investment bankers,
attorneys, accountants, advisors, agents, Affiliates or
representatives (collectively, Representatives) to,
directly or indirectly, (i) initiate, solicit, encourage or
take any action to facilitate, including by way of furnishing
information, any Acquisition Proposal (as defined below) or any
inquiries with respect to or the making of any Acquisition
Proposal, (ii) enter into or participate in any discussions
or negotiations with, furnish any information relating to North
East or any of its Subsidiaries or afford access to the
business, properties, assets, books or records of North East or
any of its Subsidiaries to, otherwise cooperate in any way with,
or knowingly assist, participate in, facilitate or encourage any
effort by any third party that is seeking to make, or has made,
an Acquisition Proposal or (iii) except in accordance
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with Section 8.1(g), approve, endorse or recommend or enter
into any letter of intent or similar document or any contract,
agreement or commitment contemplating or otherwise relating to
an Acquisition Proposal.
(b) Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, North
East and its Board of Directors shall be permitted (i) to
comply with Rule 14d-9 and Rule 14e-2 promulgated
under the Exchange Act with regard to an Acquisition Proposal
provided that the Board of Directors of North East shall not
withdraw or modify in a manner adverse to Parent its Approval
Recommendation except as set forth in
subsection (iii) below; (ii) to engage in any
discussions or negotiations with, or provide any information to,
any person in response to a Superior Proposal (as defined below)
by any such person, if and only to the extent that
(x) North Easts Board of Directors concludes in good
faith, after consultation with outside counsel, that failure to
do so would breach its fiduciary duties to North Easts
shareholders under applicable law, (y) prior to providing
any information or data to any person in connection with a
Superior Proposal by any such person, North Easts Board of
Directors receives from such person an executed confidentiality
agreement, which confidentiality terms shall be no less
favorable to North East than those contained in the
Confidentiality Agreements between North East and Parent, a copy
of which executed confidentiality agreement shall have been
provided to Parent for informational purposes, and (z) at
least 72 hours prior to providing any information or data
to any person or entering into discussions or negotiations with
any person, North East promptly notifies Parent in writing of
the name of such person and the material terms and conditions of
any such Superior Proposal and (iii) to withdraw, modify,
qualify in a manner adverse to Parent, condition or refuse to
make its Approval Recommendation (the Change in North East
Recommendation) if North Easts Board of Directors
concludes in good faith, after consultation with outside counsel
and financial advisors, that failure to do so would breach its
fiduciary duties to North Easts shareholders under
applicable law.
(c) North East will promptly, and in any event within
24 hours, notify Parent in writing of the receipt of any
Acquisition Proposal or any information related thereto, which
notification shall describe the Acquisition Proposal and
identify the third party making the same.
(d) North East agrees that it will, and will cause its
Representatives to, immediately cease and cause to be terminated
any activities, discussions or negotiations existing as of the
date of this Agreement with any parties conducted heretofore
with respect to any Acquisition Proposal.
(e) For purposes of this Agreement:
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(i) The term Acquisition Proposal means any
inquiry, proposal or offer, filing of any regulatory application
or notice, whether in draft or final form, or disclosure of an
intention to do any of the foregoing from any person relating to
any (w) direct or indirect acquisition or purchase of a
business that constitutes a substantial portion of the net
revenues, net income or net assets of North East or any of its
Subsidiaries, (x) the direct or indirect acquisition or
purchase of any class of equity securities representing 10% or
more of the voting power of North Easts Common Stock,
(y) tender offer or exchange offer that if consummated
would result in any person beneficially owning 10% or more of
any class of equity securities of North East or (z) merger,
consolidation, business combination, recapitalization,
liquidation, dissolution or similar transaction involving North
East other than the transactions contemplated by this Agreement. |
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(ii) The term Superior Proposal means any bona
fide, unsolicited written Acquisition Proposal made by a Third
Party to acquire more than 50% of the combined voting power of
the shares of North East Common Stock then outstanding or all or
substantially all of North Easts consolidated assets for
consideration consisting of cash and/or securities that is on
terms that the Board of Directors of North East in good faith
concludes, after consultation with its financial advisors and
outside counsel, taking into account, among other things, all
legal, financial, regulatory and other aspects of the proposal
and the person making the proposal, including any break-up fees,
expense reimbursement provisions and conditions to consummation,
(A) is on terms that the Board of Directors of North East
in its good faith judgment believes to be more favorable from a
financial point of view to its shareholders than the Merger;
(B) for which financing, to the extent required, is then
fully committed or reasonably determined to be available by the
Board of Directors of North East and (C) is reasonably
capable of being completed. |
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(f) If a Payment Event (as hereinafter defined) occurs,
North East shall pay to Parent by wire transfer of immediately
available funds, within two business days following such Payment
Event, a fee of $750,000 (the Break-up Fee).
(g) The term Payment Event means any of the
following:
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(i) the termination of this Agreement by Parent pursuant to
Section 8.1(f); |
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(ii) the termination of this Agreement by North East
pursuant to Section 8.1(g); |
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(iii) a tender offer or exchange offer for 25% or more of
the outstanding common stock of North East is commenced and
North East shall not have sent to its shareholders, within 10
business days after the commencement of such tender offer or
exchange offer, a statement that the North East Board recommends
rejection of such tender offer or exchange offer; or |
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(iv) the occurrence of any of the following events within
eighteen months of the termination of this Agreement pursuant to
Section 8.1(e), provided that an Acquisition Proposal shall
have been made by a Third Party after the date hereof and prior
to such termination that shall not have been withdrawn in good
faith prior to such termination: (A) North East enters into
an agreement to merge with or into, or be acquired, directly or
indirectly, by merger or otherwise by, such Third Party;
(B) such Third Party, directly or indirectly, acquires
substantially all of the total assets of North East and its
Subsidiaries, taken as a whole; (C) such Third Party,
directly or indirectly, acquires more than 50% of the
outstanding North East Common Stock or (D) North East
adopts or implements a plan of liquidation, recapitalization or
share repurchase relating to more than 50% of the outstanding
North East Common Stock or an extraordinary dividend relating to
substantially all of the outstanding North East Common Stock or
substantially all of the assets of North East and its
Subsidiaries, taken as a whole. As used herein, Third
Party means any person as defined in Section 13(d) of
the Exchange Act other than Parent or its Affiliates. |
(h) North East acknowledges that the agreements contained
in Section 6.8(e) are an integral part of the transactions
contemplated in this Agreement and that without these agreements
Parent would not enter into this Agreement. Accordingly, in the
event North East fails to pay to Parent the Break-up Fee,
promptly when due, North East shall, in addition thereto, pay to
Parent all costs and expenses, including attorneys fees
and disbursements, incurred in collecting such Break-up Fee
together with interest on the amount of the Break-up Fee or any
unpaid portion thereof, from the date such payment was due until
the date such payment is received by Parent, accrued at the
fluctuating prime rate as quoted in The Wall Street Journal as
in effect from time to time during the period.
6.9 Certain Policies.
Prior to the Effective Date, each of North East and its
Subsidiaries shall, consistent with GAAP, the rules and
regulations of applicable banking laws and regulations, modify
or change its loan, OREO, accrual, reserve, tax, litigation and
real estate valuation policies and practices, including loan
classifications and levels of reserves, so as to be applied on a
basis that is consistent with that of Parent; provided, however,
that no such modifications or changes need be made prior to the
satisfaction of the conditions set forth in Section 7.1(b)
or if such action would cause North East Bank to be in breach of
the OCC Agreement; and further provided that in any event, no
accrual or reserve made by North East or any of its Subsidiaries
pursuant to this Section 6.9 shall constitute or be deemed
to be a breach, violation of or failure to satisfy any
representation, warranty, covenant, agreement, condition or
other provision of this Agreement or otherwise be considered in
determining whether any such breach, violation or failure to
satisfy shall have occurred. The recording of any such
adjustments shall not be deemed to imply any misstatement of
previously furnished financial statements or information and
shall not be construed as a concurrence of North East or its
management with any such adjustments.
6.10 NYSE Listing.
Parent agrees to use its reasonable best efforts to list on the
NYSE, upon official notice of issuance prior to the Effective
Date, the shares of Parent Common Stock to be issued in
connection with the Merger.
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6.11 Indemnification.
(a) From and after the Effective Time through the sixth
anniversary of the Effective Time, Parent (the
Indemnifying Party) shall indemnify and hold
harmless each present and former director, officer and employee
of North East or a North East Subsidiary, as applicable, (the
Indemnified Parties) against any costs or expenses,
including reasonable attorneys fees, judgments, fines,
losses, claims, damages or liabilities incurred in connection
with any claim, action, suit, proceeding or investigation,
whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative,
arising out of matters existing or occurring at or prior to the
Effective Time, whether asserted or claimed prior to, at or
after the Effective Time, arising in whole or in part out of or
pertaining to the fact that he or she was a director, officer,
employee, fiduciary or agent of North East or any North East
Subsidiary or is or was serving at the request of North East or
any of the North East Subsidiaries as a director, officer,
employee, fiduciary or agent of another corporation,
partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise, including
without limitation matters related to the negotiation, execution
and performance of this Agreement or consummation of the
Transaction, to the fullest extent that such Indemnified Parties
would be entitled under the North East Articles and the North
East Bylaws or equivalent documents of any North East
Subsidiary, as applicable, or any agreement, arrangement or
understanding that has been Previously Disclosed by North East
pursuant to this Section, in each case as in effect on the date
hereof.
(b) Any Indemnified Party wishing to claim indemnification
under this Section 6.11, upon learning of any such claim,
action, suit, proceeding or investigation, shall promptly notify
the Indemnifying Party, but the failure to so notify shall not
relieve the Indemnifying Party of any liability it may have to
such Indemnified Party if such failure does not actually
prejudice the Indemnifying Party. In the event of any such
claim, action, suit, proceeding or investigation, whether
arising before or after the Effective Time, (i) the
Indemnifying Party shall have the right to assume the defense
thereof and the Indemnifying Party shall not be liable to such
Indemnified Parties for any legal expenses of other counsel or
any other expenses subsequently incurred by such Indemnified
Parties in connection with the defense thereof, except that if
the Indemnifying Party elects not to assume such defense or
counsel for the Indemnified Parties advises that there are
issues that raise conflicts of interest between the Indemnifying
Party and the Indemnified Parties, the Indemnified Parties may
retain counsel which is reasonably satisfactory to the
Indemnifying Party, and the Indemnifying Party shall pay,
promptly as statements therefor are received, the reasonable
fees and expenses of such counsel for the Indemnified Parties,
which may not exceed one firm in any jurisdiction, (ii) the
Indemnified Parties will cooperate in the defense of any such
matter, (iii) the Indemnifying Party shall not be liable
for any settlement effected without its prior written consent
which shall not be unreasonably withheld and (iv) the
Indemnifying Party shall have no obligation hereunder in the
event that a federal or state banking agency or a court of
competent jurisdiction shall determine that indemnification of
an Indemnified Party in the manner contemplated hereby is
prohibited by applicable laws and regulations.
(c) Prior to the Effective Time, Parent shall cause the
persons serving as directors and officers of North East
immediately prior to the Effective Time to be covered by the
directors and officers liability insurance policy
maintained by North East for a period of six years after the
Effective Time, provided that Parent may substitute therefor
policies of at least the same coverage and amounts containing
terms and conditions that are not materially less advantageous
than such policy or single premium tail coverage with policy
limits equal to North Easts existing coverage limits, with
respect to acts or omissions occurring prior to the Effective
Time that were committed by such directors and officers in their
capacities as such, provided that in no event shall Parent be
required to expend for any one year an amount in excess of 150%
of the annual premium currently paid by North East for such
insurance (the Insurance Amount), and further
provided that if Parent is unable to maintain or obtain the
insurance called for by this Section 6.11(c) as a result of
the preceding provision, Parent shall use its commercially
reasonable best efforts to obtain the most advantageous coverage
as is available for the Insurance Amount.
(d) The provisions of this Section 6.11 are intended
to be for the benefit of and shall be enforceable by each of the
Indemnified Parties and his or her heirs.
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6.12 Benefit Plans.
(a) As soon as administratively practicable after the
Effective Time, Parent shall take all reasonable action so that
employees of North East and its Subsidiaries shall be entitled
to participate in each employee benefit plan, program or
arrangement of Parent of general applicability (the Parent
Benefit Plans) to the same extent as similarly-situated
employees of Parent and its Subsidiaries, it being understood
that inclusion of the employees of North East and its
Subsidiaries in the Parent Benefit Plans may occur at different
times with respect to different plans and shall be subject the
eligibility requirements under the applicable Parent Benefit
Plan. Nothing contained herein shall require Parent or any of
its Subsidiaries to make any grants to any former employee of
North East under any discretionary equity compensation plan of
Parent. Parent shall cause each Parent Benefit Plan in which
employees of North East and its Subsidiaries are eligible to
participate to recognize, for purposes of determining
eligibility to participate in, the vesting of benefits and for
all other purposes under the Parent Benefit Plans, the service
of such employees with North East and its Subsidiaries to the
same extent as such service was credited for such purpose by
North East, provided, however, that such service shall not be
recognized to the extent that such recognition would result in a
duplication of benefits. Nothing herein shall limit the ability
of Parent to amend or terminate any of North Easts Benefit
Plans in accordance with and to the extent permitted by their
terms at any time permitted by such terms.
(b) At and following the Effective Time, and except as
otherwise provided in Sections 6.12(d), and except to the
extent that any such performance is prohibited under applicable
regulatory rule or order or by reason of the absence of
regulatory approval or consent, Parent shall honor, and the
Surviving Corporation shall continue to be obligated to perform,
in accordance with their terms, all benefit obligations to, and
contractual rights of, current and former employees of North
East and its Subsidiaries and current and former directors of
North East and its Subsidiaries existing as of the Effective
Date, as well as all employment, executive severance or
change-in-control or similar agreements, plans or
policies of North East that are set forth on
Schedule 6.12(b) of the North East Disclosure Schedule,
subject to the receipt of any necessary approval from any Bank
Regulatory Authority. The severance or termination payments that
are payable pursuant to such agreements, plans or policies of
North East are set forth on Schedule 6.12(b) of the North
East Disclosure Schedule. Following the consummation of the
Merger and for one year thereafter, Parent shall, to the extent
not duplicative of other severance benefits, pay employees of
North East or its Subsidiaries who are terminated for other than
cause, severance as set forth on Schedule 6.12(b) of the
Parent Disclosure Schedule. Following the expiration of the
foregoing severance policy, any years of service recognized for
purposes of this Section 6.12(b) will be taken into account
under the terms of any applicable severance policy of Parent or
its Subsidiaries.
(c) At such time as employees of North East and its
Subsidiaries become eligible to participate in a medical, dental
or health plan of Parent or its Subsidiaries, Parent shall cause
each such plan to (i) waive any preexisting condition
limitations to the extent such conditions are covered under the
applicable medical, health or dental plans of Parent,
(ii) provide full credit under such plans for any
deductibles, co-payment and out-of-pocket expenses incurred by
the employees and their dependents during the portion of the
calendar year prior to such participation and (iii) waive
any waiting period limitation or evidence of insurability
requirement that would otherwise be applicable to such employee
or dependent on or after the Effective Time to the extent such
employee or dependent had satisfied any similar limitation or
requirement under an analogous Benefit Plan prior to the
Effective Time.
(d) Immediately prior to the Effective Time, North East
shall, at the request of Parent, freeze or terminate such of the
North East Benefit Plans as is requested by Parent so that no
further contributions shall be made and no further benefits
shall accrue under the North East Benefit Plans after such date.
(e) Upon request of Parent, North East shall take all
actions necessary to file an application for determination
letter with the IRS prior to the Effective Time for any North
East Benefit Plan.
6.13 Notification of Certain
Matters. Each of North East and Parent shall give prompt
notice to the other of any fact, event or circumstance known to
it that (i) is reasonably likely, individually or taken
together with all other facts, events and circumstances known to
it, to result in any Material Adverse Effect with
A-34
respect to it or (ii) would cause or constitute a material
breach of any of its representations, warranties, covenants or
agreements contained herein.
6.14 Regulatory
Conditions. In the event of the imposition of any
conditions, restrictions or requirements in connection with the
regulatory approvals required by Section 7.1(b) that Parent
determines would materially reduce the benefits of the Merger as
provided in Section 7.1(b), Parent shall use its
commercially reasonable efforts to obtain the removal of any
such condition, restriction or requirement.
6.15 Director
Agreements. Parent shall have received from each
director of North East and North East Bank an executed Voting
Agreement in the form of Annex C.
6.16 Extension of OCC Capital
Requirement Deadline. North East and North East Bank
shall use commercially reasonable efforts to extend the deadline
under the OCC Agreement with respect to North East Banks
achievement of certain increased capital requirements if Closing
does not occur by the current deadline of October 31, 2005.
In the event that North East and North East Bank are
unsuccessful in extending that deadline, Parent shall provide
sufficient capital in the form of a secured loan to North East
in an amount not to exceed $300,000, which North East shall use
to capitalize North East Bank, to satisfy such requirements.
ARTICLE VII
CONDITIONS TO CONSUMMATION
OF THE MERGER
7.1 Conditions to Each
Partys Obligation to Effect the Merger. The
respective obligation of each of the parties hereto to
consummate the Merger is subject to the fulfillment or, to the
extent permitted by applicable law, written waiver by the
parties hereto prior to the Closing Date of each of the
following conditions:
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(a) Shareholder Approval. This Agreement and
the Merger shall have been duly approved by the requisite vote
of the holders of outstanding shares of North East Common Stock. |
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(b) Regulatory Approvals. All regulatory
approvals required to consummate the Merger shall have been
obtained and shall remain in full force and effect and all
statutory waiting periods in respect thereof shall have expired
and no such approvals shall contain any conditions, restrictions
or requirements that the Parent Board reasonably determines in
good faith would, individually or in the aggregate, materially
reduce the benefits of the Transaction to such a degree that
Parent would not have entered into this Agreement had such
conditions, restrictions or requirements been known at the date
hereof. |
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(c) No Injunction. No Governmental Authority
of competent jurisdiction shall have enacted, issued,
promulgated, enforced or entered any statute, rule, regulation,
judgment, decree, injunction or other order, whether temporary,
preliminary or permanent, that is in effect and prohibits
consummation of the Transaction. |
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(d) Registration Statement. The Registration
Statement shall have become effective under the Securities Act
and no stop order suspending the effectiveness of the
Registration Statement shall have been issued and no proceedings
for that purpose shall have been initiated by the SEC and not
withdrawn. |
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(e) Listing. The shares of Parent Common
Stock to be issued in the Merger shall have been approved for
listing on the NYSE. |
7.2 Conditions to Obligation
of North East. The obligation of North East to
consummate the Merger is also subject to the fulfillment by
Parent or written waiver by North East prior to the Closing Date
of each of the following conditions:
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(a) Representations and Warranties. The
representations and warranties of Parent set forth in this
Agreement, subject in all cases to the standard set forth in
Section 5.2, shall be true and correct as of the date of
this Agreement and as of the Effective Date as though made on
and as of the Effective Date, except that representations and
warranties that by their terms speak as of the date of this
Agreement or some other date shall be true and correct as of
such date, and North East shall have received a certificate, |
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dated the Effective Date, signed on behalf of Parent by the
Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer of
Parent to such effect. |
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(b) Performance of Obligations of Parent.
Parent shall have performed in all material respects all
obligations required to be performed by it under this Agreement
at or prior to the Effective Time in order to consummate the
Merger, and North East shall have received a certificate, dated
the Effective Date, signed on behalf of Parent by the Chief
Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer of Parent to
such effect. |
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(c) Tax Opinion. North East shall have
received the written opinion of Buchanan Ingersoll P.C., dated
as of the Effective Date, which shall be based on such written
representations from Parent, North East and others as such
counsel shall reasonably request, to the effect that the Merger
will constitute a reorganization within the meaning of
Section 368(a) of the Code. |
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(d) Other Actions. Parent shall have
furnished North East with such certificates of its respective
officers or others and such other documents to evidence
fulfillment of the conditions set forth in Sections 7.1 and
7.2 as North East may reasonably request. |
7.3 Conditions to Obligation
of Parent. The obligation of Parent to consummate the
Merger is also subject to the fulfillment by North East or
written waiver by Parent prior to the Closing Date of each of
the following conditions:
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(a) Representations and Warranties. The
representations and warranties of North East set forth in this
Agreement, subject in all cases to the standard set forth in
Section 5.2, shall be true and correct as of the date of
this Agreement and as of the Effective Date as though made on
and as of the Effective Date, except that representations and
warranties that by their terms speak as of the date of this
Agreement or some other date shall be true and correct as of
such date, and Parent shall have received a certificate, dated
the Effective Date, signed on behalf of North East by the
President and the Chief Financial Officer (or an equivalent
officer) of North East to such effect. |
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(b) Performance of Obligations of North East.
North East shall have performed in all material respects all
obligations required to be performed by it under this Agreement
at or prior to the Effective Time in order to consummate the
Merger, and Parent shall have received a certificate, dated the
Effective Date, signed on behalf of North East by the President
and the Chief Financial Officer of North East to such effect. |
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(c) Tax Opinion. Parent shall have received
the written opinion of Duane Morris LLP, dated as of the
Effective Date, which shall be based on such written
representations from Parent, North East and others as such
counsel shall reasonably request, to the effect that the Merger
will constitute a reorganization within the meaning of
Section 368(a) of the Code. |
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(d) Environmental Reports. North East shall
have furnished Parent with a Phase I environmental study
with respect to all real property owned by North East or North
East Bank, the findings of which studies shall be acceptable to
Parent who shall not unreasonably withhold such acceptance. |
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(e) Other Actions. North East shall have
furnished Parent with such certificates of its officers or
others and such other documents to evidence fulfillment of the
conditions set forth in Sections 7.1 and 7.3 as Parent may
reasonably request. |
ARTICLE VIII
TERMINATION
8.1 Termination. This
Agreement may be terminated at any time prior to the Effective
Date, and the Transaction may be abandoned:
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(a) Mutual Consent. By the mutual consent in
writing of Parent and North East if the Board of Directors of
each so determines by vote of a majority of the members of its
entire Board. |
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(b) Breach. Provided that the terminating
party is not then in material breach of any representation,
warranty, covenant or agreement contained therein, subject in
all cases to the standard set forth in Section 5.2, by
Parent or North East, if its Board of Directors so determines by
vote of a majority of the members of its entire Board, in the
event of: (i) a breach by Parent, on the one hand, or North
East, on the other hand, as the case may be, of any
representation or warranty contained herein, subject to the
standard set forth in Section 5.2, which breach cannot be
or has not been cured within 30 days after the giving of
written notice to the breaching party or parties of such breach;
or (ii) a breach by Parent, on the one hand, or North East,
on the other hand, as the case may be, of any of the covenants
or agreements contained herein, which breach cannot be or has
not been cured within 30 days after the giving of written
notice to the breaching party or parties of such breach, which
breach, whether under (i) or (ii), would be reasonably
expected, individually or in the aggregate with other breaches,
to result in a Material Adverse Effect with respect to Parent or
North East, as the case may be. |
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(c) Delay. By Parent or North East, if its
Board of Directors so determines by vote of a majority of the
members of its entire Board, in the event that the Merger is not
consummated by January 31, 2006, except to the extent that
the failure of the Merger then to be consummated by such date
shall be due to the failure of the party seeking to terminate
pursuant to this Section 8.1(c) to perform or observe the
covenants and agreements of such party, in the case of Parent,
set forth in this Agreement. |
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(d) No Regulatory Approval. By Parent or
North East, if its Board of Directors so determines by a vote of
a majority of the members of its entire Board, in the event the
approval of any Governmental Authority required for consummation
of the Merger and the other transactions contemplated by this
Agreement shall have been denied by final nonappealable action
of such Governmental Authority or an application therefor shall
have been permanently withdrawn at the request of a Governmental
Authority, provided, however, that no party shall have the right
to terminate this Agreement pursuant to this Section 8.1(d)
if such denial shall be due to the failure of the party seeking
to terminate this Agreement to perform or observe the covenants
of such party set forth herein. |
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(e) No North East Shareholder Approval. By
Parent, or by North East provided that North East shall not be
in material breach of any of its obligations under
Section 6.2, if any approval of the shareholders of North
East contemplated by this Agreement shall not have been obtained
by reason of the failure to obtain the required vote at the
North East Meeting or at any adjournment or postponement thereof. |
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(f) North East Failure to Recommend. At any
time prior to the North East Meeting, by Parent if
(i) North East shall have breached Section 6.8 in any
respect materially adverse to Parent, (ii) the North East
Board shall have failed to make its Approval Recommendation or
shall have effected a Change in North East Recommendation,
(iii) the North East Board shall have recommended approval
of an Acquisition Proposal or (iv) North East shall have
materially breached its obligations under Section 6.2 by
failing to call, give notice of, convene and hold the North East
Meeting. |
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(g) Superior Proposal. At any time prior to
the date of mailing of the Proxy Statement, by North East in
order to enter concurrently into an Acquisition Proposal that
has been received by North East and the North East Board of
Directors in compliance with Sections 6.8(a) and
(b) and that North Easts Board of Directors concludes
in good faith, in consultation with its financial and legal
advisors, that such Acquisition Proposal is a Superior Proposal;
provided, however, that this Agreement may be terminated by
North East pursuant to this Section 8.1(g) only after the
fifth Business Day following North Easts provision of
written notice to Parent advising Parent, that the North East
Board of Directors is prepared to accept a Superior Proposal and
only if (i) during such five-Business Day period, North
East has caused its financial and legal advisors to negotiate
with Parent in good faith to make such adjustments in the terms
and conditions of this Agreement such that such Acquisition
Proposal would no longer constitute a Superior Proposal,
(ii) North Easts Board of Directors has considered
such adjustments in the terms and conditions of this Agreement
resulting from such negotiations and has concluded in good
faith, based upon consultation with its financial and legal
advisers, that such Acquisition Proposal remains a Superior
Proposal even after giving effect to the adjustments proposed by
Parent and further |
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provided that such termination shall not be effective until
North East has paid the Break-up Fee to Parent. |
8.2 Effect of
Termination. In the event of termination of this
Agreement by either Parent or North East as provided in
Section 8.1, this Agreement shall forthwith become void and
have no effect except (i) Sections 6.6(c), 6.8(e) and
(f), 8.2 and 9.5 shall survive any termination of this Agreement
and (ii) notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained
in this Agreement, no party shall be relieved or released from
any liability or damages arising out of its willful breach of
any of the provisions of this Agreement.
ARTICLE IX
MISCELLANEOUS
9.1 Survival. No
representations, warranties, agreements and covenants contained
in this Agreement shall survive the Effective Time, other than
agreements or covenants contained herein that by their express
terms are to be performed in whole or in part after the
Effective Time, or the termination of this Agreement if this
Agreement is terminated prior to the Effective Time, other than
Sections 6.6(c), 8.2 and, excepting Section 9.12, this
Article IX, which shall survive any such termination.
Notwithstanding anything in the foregoing to the contrary, no
representations, warranties, agreements and covenants contained
in this Agreement shall be deemed to be terminated or
extinguished so as to deprive a party hereto or any of its
affiliates of any defense at law or in equity that otherwise
would be available against the claims of any Person, including
without limitation any shareholder or former shareholder.
9.2 Waiver;
Amendment. Prior to the Effective Time, any provision of
this Agreement may be (i) waived, by the party benefited by
the provision or (ii) amended or modified at any time, by
an agreement in writing among the parties hereto executed in the
same manner as this Agreement, except that after the North East
Meeting no amendment shall be made that by law requires further
approval by the shareholders of North East without obtaining
such approval.
9.3 Counterparts.
This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, each
of which shall be deemed to constitute an original.
9.4 Governing Law.
This Agreement shall be governed by, and interpreted in
accordance with, the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
applicable to contracts made and to be performed entirely within
such State.
9.5 Expenses.
(a) Except as set forth in Section 9.5(b), each party
hereto will bear all expenses incurred by it in connection with
this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby,
including fees and expenses of its own financial consultants,
accountants and counsel, except that expenses of printing the
Proxy Statement and the registration fee to be paid to the SEC
in connection with the Registration Statement shall be shared
equally between North East and Parent, and provided further that
nothing contained herein shall limit either partys rights
to recover any liabilities or damages arising out of the other
partys willful breach of any provision of this Agreement.
(b) In the event that this Agreement is terminated by
either North East or Parent pursuant to Section 8.1(b),
then the breaching party shall pay, or by Parent pursuant to
Section 8.1(e), then North East shall pay Parent, by wire
transfer of immediately available funds, within two business
days following delivery of a statement of such expenses, all
out-of-pocket costs and expenses (including without limitation,
professional fees of legal counsel, financial advisors and
accountants, and their expenses) actually incurred by Parent in
connection with the Merger and this Agreement.
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9.6 Notices. All
notices, requests and other communications hereunder to a party
shall be in writing and shall be deemed given if personally
delivered, telecopied (with confirmation) or mailed by
registered or certified mail (return receipt requested) to such
party at its address set forth below or such other address as
such party may specify by notice to the parties hereto.
If to North East to:
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North East Bancshares, Inc. |
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5999 Station Road, P.O. Box 270 |
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North East, Pennsylvania 16478 |
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Attention: |
David B. Hartman, |
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President and Chief Executive Officer |
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Fax:
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With a copy to:
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Buchanan Ingersoll P.C. |
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One Oxford Centre |
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301 Grant Street,
20th
Floor |
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Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15219 |
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Attention: Richard D. Rose, Esq. |
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Fax: (412) 562-1041 |
If to Parent to:
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F.N.B. Corporation |
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One F.N.B. Boulevard |
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Hermitage, Pennsylvania 16148 |
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Attention: |
Stephen J. Gurgovits |
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President and Chief Executive Officer |
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Fax: (724) 983-3515 |
With a copy to:
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Duane Morris LLP |
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4200 One Liberty Place |
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Philadelphia, PA 19103 |
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Attention: Frederick W. Dreher, Esq. |
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Fax: (215) 979-1213 |
9.7 Entire Understanding; No
Third Party Beneficiaries. This Agreement, the Bank
Merger Agreement and the Confidentiality Agreements represent
the entire understanding of the parties hereto and thereto with
reference to the Transaction, and this Agreement, the Bank
Merger Agreement and the Confidentiality Agreements supersede
any and all other oral or written agreements heretofore made.
Except for the Indemnified Parties right to enforce
Parents obligations under Section 6.11, which is
expressly intended to be for the irrevocable benefit of, and
shall be enforceable by, each Indemnified Party and his or her
heirs and representatives, nothing in this Agreement, expressed
or implied, is intended to confer upon any Person, other than
the parties hereto or their respective successors, any rights,
remedies, obligations or liabilities under or by reason of this
Agreement.
9.8 Severability.
Except to the extent that application of this Section 9.8
would have a Material Adverse Effect on North East or Parent,
any term or provision of this Agreement that is invalid or
unenforceable in any jurisdiction shall, as to that
jurisdiction, be ineffective to the extent of such invalidity or
unenforceability without rendering invalid or unenforceable the
remaining terms and provisions of this Agreement or affecting
the validity or enforceability of any of the terms or provisions
of this Agreement in any other jurisdiction. If any provision of
this Agreement is so broad as to be unenforceable, the provision
shall be interpreted to be only so broad as is enforceable. In
all such cases, the parties shall use their reasonable best
efforts to substitute a valid, legal and enforceable provision
that, insofar as practicable, implements the original purposes
and intents of this Agreement.
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9.9 Enforcement. The
parties hereto agree that irreparable damage would occur in the
event that any of the provisions of this Agreement were not
performed in accordance with their specific terms or were
otherwise breached. It is accordingly agreed that the parties
shall be entitled to an injunction or injunctions to prevent
breaches of this Agreement and to enforce specifically the terms
and provisions hereof in any court of the United States or any
state having jurisdiction, this being in addition to any other
remedy to which they are entitled at law or in equity. In the
event attorneys fees or other costs are incurred to secure
performance of any of the obligations herein provided for, or to
establish damages for the breach thereof, or to obtain any other
appropriate relief, whether by way of prosecution or defense,
the prevailing party shall be entitled to recover reasonable
attorneys fees and costs incurred therein.
9.10 Interpretation.
When a reference is made in this Agreement to Sections, Annexes
or Schedules, such reference shall be to a Section of, or Annex
or Schedule to, this Agreement unless otherwise indicated. The
table of contents and headings contained in this Agreement are
for reference purposes only and are not part of this Agreement.
Whenever the words include, includes or
including are used in this Agreement, they shall be
deemed to be followed by the words without
limitation. Whenever the words as of the date
hereof are used in this Agreement, they shall be deemed to
mean the day and year first above written.
9.11 Assignment. No
party may assign either this Agreement or any of its rights,
interests or obligations hereunder without the prior written
approval of the other parties. Subject to the preceding
sentence, this Agreement shall be binding upon and shall inure
to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective
successors and permitted assigns.
9.12 Alternative
Structure. Notwithstanding any provision of this
Agreement to the contrary, until the Registration Statement is
declared effective, Parent may at any time modify the structure
of the acquisition of North East set forth herein, subject to
the prior written consent of North East, which consent shall not
be unreasonably withheld or delayed, provided that (i) the
Merger Consideration to be paid to the holders of North East
Common Stock is not thereby changed in kind or reduced in amount
as a result of such modification, (ii) such modification
will not adversely affect the tax treatment to North Easts
shareholders as a result of receiving the Merger Consideration
and (iii) such modification will not materially delay or
jeopardize receipt of any required approvals of Governmental
Authorities.
[Signature page follows]
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this
Agreement to be executed in counterparts by their duly
authorized officers, all as of the day and year first above
written.
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By: |
/s/ Stephen J. Gurgovits |
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Stephen J. Gurgovits, |
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President and Chief Executive Officer |
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NORTH EAST BANCSHARES, INC. |
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David B. Hartman, |
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President and Chief Executive Officer |
A-41
ANNEX A
AGREEMENT OF MERGER
Agreement of Merger, dated as
of ,
2005, by and between First National Bank of Pennsylvania (the
Parent Bank) and National Bank of the North East
(North East Bank). All capitalized terms used herein
but not defined herein shall have the respective meanings
assigned to them in the Agreement and Plan of Merger (the
Agreement) dated as of
April , 2005 between F.N.B.
Corporation (Parent) and North East Bancshares, Inc.
(North East).
WlTNESSETH:
WHEREAS, North East Bank is a national association and a wholly
owned subsidiary of North East; and
WHEREAS, Parent Bank is a national association and a wholly
owned subsidiary of Parent; and
WHEREAS, Parent and North East have entered into the Agreement,
pursuant to which North East will merge with and into Parent
(the Parent Merger); and
WHEREAS, North East Bank and Parent Bank desire to merge on the
terms and conditions herein provided immediately following the
effective time of the Parent Merger.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the mutual
covenants and agreements herein contained, the parties hereto,
intending to be legally bound hereby, agree as follows:
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1. The Merger.
Subject to the terms and conditions of the Agreement and this
Agreement of Merger, at the Effective Time (as defined in
Section 2), North East Bank shall merge with and into
Parent Bank (the Bank Merger) under the laws of the
United States. Parent Bank shall be the surviving bank of the
Bank Merger (the Surviving Bank). |
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2. Effective Time.
The Bank Merger shall become effective on the date and at the
time that Articles of Combination are filed with the Office of
the Comptroller of the Currency (the OCC) unless a
later date and time is specified as the Effective Time in such
Articles of Combination (the Effective Time). |
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3. Charter; Bylaws.
The Charter and Bylaws of Parent Bank in effect immediately
prior to the Effective Time shall be the Charter and Bylaws of
the Surviving Bank, until altered, amended or repealed in
accordance with their terms and applicable law. |
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4. Name; Offices. The
name of the Surviving Bank shall be First National Bank of
Pennsylvania. The main office of the Surviving Bank shall
be the main office of Parent Bank immediately prior to the
Effective Time. All branch offices of North East Bank and Parent
Bank that were in lawful operation immediately prior to the
Effective Time shall be the branch offices of the Surviving Bank
upon consummation of the Bank Merger, subject to the opening or
closing of any offices that may be authorized by North East
Bank, Parent Bank and the OCC after the date hereof.
Schedule I hereto contains a list of each of the deposit
taking offices of North East Bank and Parent Bank that shall be
operated by the Surviving Bank, subject to the opening or
closing of any offices that may be authorized by North East
Bank, Parent Bank and the OCC after the date hereof. |
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5. Directors and Executive
Officers. Upon consummation of the Bank Merger,
(i) the directors of the Surviving Bank immediately prior
to the Effective Time shall continue as directors of the
Surviving Bank and (ii) the executive officers of the
Surviving Bank shall be the executive officers of Parent Bank
immediately prior to the Effective Time. |
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6. Effects of the Bank
Merger. Upon consummation of the Bank Merger, and in
addition to the effects set forth at 12 U.S.C.
§ 215a and other applicable law: |
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(a) all rights, franchises and interests of North East Bank
in and to every type of property (real, personal and mixed),
tangible and intangible, and choses in action shall be
transferred to and vested in the Surviving Bank by virtue of the
Bank Merger without any deed or other transfer, and the
Surviving Bank, without any order or other action on the part of
any court or otherwise, shall hold and enjoy all rights of
property, franchises and interests, including appointments,
designations and nominations, and all other rights and interests
as trustee, executor, administrator, registrar of stocks and
bonds, guardian of estates, assignee, receiver and committee,
and in every other fiduciary capacity, in the same manner and to
the same extent as such rights, franchises and interest were
held or enjoyed by North East Bank immediately prior to the
Effective Time; and |
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(b) the Surviving Bank shall be liable for all liabilities
of North East Bank, fixed or contingent, including all deposits,
accounts, debts, obligations and contracts thereof, matured or
unmatured, whether accrued, absolute, contingent or otherwise,
and whether or not reflected or reserved against on balance
sheets, books of account or records thereof, and all rights of
creditors or obligees and all liens on property of North East
Bank shall be preserved unimpaired; after the Effective Time,
the Surviving Bank will continue to issue savings accounts on
the same basis as immediately prior to the Effective Time. |
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7. Effect on Shares of
Stock. |
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(a) Each share of Parent Bank common stock issued and
outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time shall be
unchanged and shall remain issued and outstanding. |
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(b) At the Effective Time, each share of North East Bank
common stock issued and outstanding prior to the Bank Merger
shall, by virtue of the Bank Merger and without any action on
the part of the holder thereof, be canceled. Any shares of North
East Bank common stock held in the treasury of North East Bank
immediately prior to the Effective Time shall be retired and
canceled. |
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8. Additional
Actions. If, at any time after the Effective Time, the
Surviving Bank shall consider that any further assignments or
assurances in law or any other acts are necessary or desirable
to (a) vest, perfect or confirm, of record or otherwise, in
the Surviving Bank its rights, title or interest in, to or under
any of the rights, properties or assets of North East Bank
acquired or to be acquired by the Surviving Bank as a result of,
or in connection with, the Bank Merger, or (b) otherwise
carry out the purposes of this Agreement of Merger, North East
Bank and its proper officers and directors shall be deemed to
have granted to the Surviving Bank an irrevocable power of
attorney to (i) execute and deliver all such proper deeds,
assignments and assurances in law and to do all acts necessary
or proper to vest, perfect or confirm title to and possession of
such rights, properties or assets in the Surviving Bank and
(ii) otherwise to carry out the purposes of this Agreement
of Merger. The proper officers and directors of the Surviving
Bank are fully authorized in the name of North East Bank or
otherwise to take any and all such action. |
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9. Counterparts. This
Agreement of Merger may be executed in one or more counterparts,
each of which shall be deemed to be an original but all of which
together shall constitute one agreement. |
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10. Governing Law.
This Agreement of Merger shall be governed in all respects,
including, but not limited to, validity, interpretation, effect
and performance, by the laws of the United States. |
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11. Amendment.
Subject to applicable law, this Agreement of Merger may be
amended, modified or supplemented only by written agreement of
Parent Bank and North East Bank at any time prior to the
Effective Time. |
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12. Waiver. Any of
the terms or conditions of this Agreement of Merger may be
waived at any time by whichever of the parties hereto is, or the
shareholders of which are, entitled to the benefit thereof by
action taken by the Board of Directors of such waiving party. |
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13. Assignment. This
Agreement of Merger may not be assigned by any party hereto
without the prior written consent of the other party. |
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14. Termination. This
Agreement of Merger shall terminate upon the termination of the
Agreement in accordance with its terms. |
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15. Procurement of
Approvals. This Agreement of Merger shall be subject to
the approval of Parent as the sole shareholder of Parent Bank
and North East as the sole shareholder of North East Bank at
meetings to be called and held or by consent in lieu thereof in
accordance with the applicable provisions of law and their
respective organizational documents. Parent Bank and North East
Bank shall proceed expeditiously and cooperate fully in the
procurement of any other consents and approvals and in the
taking of any other action, and the satisfaction of all other
requirements prescribed by law or otherwise necessary for
consummation of the Bank Merger on the terms provided herein,
including without limitation the preparation and submission of
such applications or other filings for approval of the Bank
Merger to the OCC as may be required by applicable laws and
regulations. |
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16. Conditions
Precedent. The obligations of the parties under this
Agreement of Merger shall be subject to: (i) the approval
of this Agreement of Merger by Parent as the sole shareholder of
Parent Bank and North East as the sole shareholder of North East
Bank at meetings of shareholders duly called and held, or by
consent or consents in lieu thereof, in each case without any
exercise of such dissenters rights as may be applicable;
(ii) receipt of approval of the Bank Merger from all
governmental and banking authorities whose approval is required;
(iii) receipt of any necessary regulatory approval to
operate the main office and the branch offices of North East
Bank as offices of the Surviving Bank and (iv) the
consummation of the Parent Merger pursuant to the Agreement on
or before the Effective Time. |
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17. Effectiveness of
Agreement. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary
contained herein, the execution and delivery of this Agreement
of Merger by the parties hereto shall not be deemed to be
effective unless and until the requirements of 12 C.F.R.
§ 5.33 are met. |
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, each of Parent Bank and North East Bank has
caused this Agreement of Merger to be executed on its behalf by
its duly authorized officers.
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FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF PENNSYLVANIA |
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Gary J. Roberts, |
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President and Chief Executive Officer |
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NATIONAL BANK OF THE NORTH EAST |
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David B. Hartman, |
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President and Chief Executive Officer |
A-45
ANNEX B
,
2005
F.N.B. Corporation
One F.N.B. Boulevard
Hermitage, PA 16148
Ladies and Gentlemen:
I have been advised that I may be deemed an
affiliate of North East Bancshares, Inc., a
Pennsylvania corporation (North East), as that term
is defined in Rule 144 and used in Rule 145
promulgated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (the
SEC) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended
(the Securities Act). I understand that pursuant to
the terms of the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of
April , 2005 (the
Agreement), between F.N.B. Corporation, a Florida
corporation (Parent), and North East, North East
plans to merge with and into Parent (the Merger).
I further understand that as a result of the Merger, I will be
entitled to receive shares of common stock, par value
$.01 per share, of Parent (Parent Common Stock)
in exchange for shares of common stock, no par value per share,
of North East (North East Common Stock).
I have carefully read this letter and reviewed the Agreement,
discussed its requirements and other applicable limitations upon
my ability to sell, transfer or otherwise dispose of Parent
Common Stock, to the extent I felt necessary, with my counsel or
counsel for North East.
I represent, warrant and covenant with and to Parent with
respect to the shares of Parent Common Stock I receive as a
result of the Merger as follows:
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I shall not make any sale, transfer or other disposition of such
shares of Parent Common Stock unless (i) such sale,
transfer or other disposition has been registered under the
Securities Act, (ii) such sale, transfer or other
disposition is made in conformity with the provisions of
Rule 145 under the Securities Act or (iii) in the
opinion of counsel in form and substance reasonably satisfactory
to Parent or under a no-action letter obtained by me
from the staff of the SEC, such sale, transfer or other
disposition will not violate the registration requirements of,
or is otherwise exempt from registration under, the Securities
Act. |
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I understand that Parent is under no obligation to register the
sale, transfer or other disposition of shares of Parent Common
Stock by me or on my behalf under the Securities Act or to take
any other action necessary in order to make compliance with an
exemption from such registration available. |
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I understand that stop transfer instructions will be given to
Parents transfer agent with respect to shares of Parent
Common Stock issued to me as a result of the Merger and that
there will be placed on the certificates for such shares, or any
substitutions therefor, a legend stating in substance: |
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The shares represented by this certificate were issued as
a result of the merger of North East Bancshares, Inc. with and
into F.N.B. Corporation,
on ,
2005 in a transaction to which Rule 145 promulgated under
the Securities Act of 1933 applies. The shares represented by
this certificate may be transferred only in accordance with the
terms of a letter agreement between the registered holder hereof
and F.N.B. Corporation, a copy of which agreement is on file at
the principal offices of F.N.B. Corporation. |
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I understand that, unless transfer by me of the Parent Common
Stock issued to me as a result of the Merger has been registered
under the Securities Act or such transfer is made in conformity
with the provisions of Rule 145(d) under the Securities
Act, Parent reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to place
the following legend on the certificates issued to my transferee: |
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The shares represented by this certificate have not been
registered under the Securities Act of 1933 and were acquired
from [SHAREHOLDER] who, in turn, received such shares as a
result of the merger of North East Bancshares, Inc. with and
into F.N.B. Corporation
on ,
2005 in a transaction to which Rule 145 under the
Securities Act of 1933 applies. The shares have not been |
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acquired by the holder with a view to, or for resale in
connection with, any distribution thereof within the meaning of
the Securities Act of 1933 and may not be offered, sold, pledged
or otherwise transferred except in accordance with an exemption
from the registration requirements of the Securities Act of
1933. |
It is understood and agreed that the legends set forth above
shall be removed by delivery of substitute certificates without
such legends if I shall have delivered to Parent (i) a copy
of a no action letter from the staff of the SEC, or
an opinion of counsel in form and substance reasonably
satisfactory to Parent, to the effect that such legend is not
required for purposes of the Securities Act, or
(ii) evidence or representations satisfactory to Parent
that the Parent Common Stock represented by such certificates is
being or has been sold in conformity with the provisions of
Rule 145(d).
I further understand and agree that the provisions of
Rule 145 shall apply to all shares of Parent Common Stock
that (i) my spouse, (ii) any relative of mine or my
spouse occupying my home, (iii) any trust or estate in
which I, my spouse or any such relative owns at least a 10%
beneficial interest or of which any of us serves as trustee,
executor or in any similar capacity and (iv) any
corporation or other organization in which I, my spouse or
any such relative owns at least 10% of any class of equity
securities or of the equity interest, receives as a result of
the Merger. I further represent, warrant and covenant with and
to Parent that I will have, and will cause each of such persons
to have, all shares of North East Common Stock owned, other than
shares held through tax qualified retirement or benefit plans,
by me or such persons registered in my name or the name of such
persons, as applicable, prior to the effective date of the
Merger and not in the name of any bank, broker or dealer,
nominee or clearing house.
By acceptance hereof, Parent agrees, for a period of one year
after the Effective Time (as defined in the Agreement) that, so
long as it is obligated to file reports pursuant to
Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934,
as amended, it will use its reasonable best efforts to timely
file such reports so that the public information requirements of
Rule 144(c) promulgated under the Securities Act are
satisfied and the resale provisions of Rule 145(d)(1) and
(2) are therefore available to me in the event I desire to
transfer any Parent Common Stock issued to me in the Merger.
It is understood and agreed that this letter shall terminate and
be of no further force and effect if the Agreement is terminated
in accordance with its terms.
Execution of this letter should not be construed as an admission
on my part that I am an affiliate of North East as
described in the first paragraph of this letter or as a waiver
of any rights I might have to object to any claim that I am such
an affiliate on or after the date of this letter.
Acknowledged this day of
,
2005.
A-47
ANNEX C
FORM OF VOTING AGREEMENT
,
2005
North East Bancshares, Inc.
5999 Station Road, P.O. Box 270
North East, PA 16478
F.N.B. Corporation
One F.N.B. Boulevard
Hermitage, PA 16148
Ladies and Gentlemen:
F.N.B. Corporation (FNB) and North East Bancshares,
Inc. (North East) have entered into an Agreement and
Plan of Merger dated as of
April , 2005 (the
Agreement) whereby North East will merge with and
into FNB (the Merger) and shareholders of North East
will receive shares of FNB common stock, or a combination of
shares and cash, as the case may be, as determined under the
Agreement, for each share of North East common stock owned on
the closing date of the Merger. All defined terms used herein
but not defined herein shall have the meanings ascribed thereto
in the Agreement.
A condition to FNBs obligations under the Agreement is
that I execute and deliver this Letter Agreement to FNB.
Intending to be legally bound hereby, I irrevocably agree and
represent as follows:
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I agree to vote or cause to be voted for approval and adoption
of the Agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby all
shares of North East common stock over which I have or share
voting power, individually or, to the extent of my proportionate
interest, jointly with other persons, and will use my reasonable
best efforts to cause any shares of North East common stock over
which I share voting power to be voted for approval and adoption
of the Agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby.
Beneficial ownership shall have the meaning assigned to it under
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. |
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On or prior to the record date for the meeting of the North East
shareholders to vote on approval and adoption of the Agreement
and the transactions contemplated thereby, I agree not to offer,
sell, transfer or otherwise dispose of, or to permit the offer,
sale, transfer or other disposition of, any shares of North East
common stock over which I have sole or shared voting power and
beneficial ownership, except to the extent that I may be
permitted under law to make charitable gifts or as permitted by
paragraph (f) hereof. |
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I have sole or shared beneficial ownership over the number of
shares of North East common stock set forth below opposite my
name below. |
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I agree that North East shall not be bound by any attempted sale
of any shares of North East common stock over which I have sole
voting power, and North Easts transfer agent shall be
given appropriate stop transfer orders and shall not be required
to register any such attempted sale, unless the sale has been
effected in compliance with the terms of this Letter Agreement. |
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I represent that I have the capacity to enter into this Letter
Agreement and that it is a valid and binding obligation
enforceable against me in accordance with its terms, subject to
bankruptcy, insolvency and other laws affecting creditors
rights and general equitable principles. |
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I may transfer any or all of the shares of North East common
stock over which I have sole or shared beneficial ownership to
my spouse, ancestors or descendants; provided, however, that in
any such case, prior to and as a condition to the effectiveness
of such transfer, each person to which any of such shares or |
A-48
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any interest in any of such shares is or may be transferred
shall have executed and delivered to FNB an agreement to be
bound by the terms of this Letter Agreement. In addition, I may
sell, transfer or assign shares of North East common stock to
the extent and on behalf of trusts or estates of which I am not
a beneficiary in order to comply with fiduciary obligations or
legal requirements. |
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I am signing this Letter Agreement solely in my capacity as a
shareholder of North East and not in any other capacity, such as
a director or officer of North East or as a fiduciary of any
trusts in which I am not a beneficiary. Notwithstanding anything
herein to the contrary: (a) I make no agreement or
understanding herein in any capacity other than in my capacity
as a beneficial owner of North East common stock and
(b) nothing herein shall be construed to limit or affect
any action or inaction by me or any of my representatives, as
applicable, serving on North Easts Board of Directors or
as an officer of North East, acting in my capacity as a
director, officer or fiduciary of North East or as fiduciary of
any trust of which I am not a beneficiary. |
This Letter Agreement shall be effective upon acceptance by FNB.
This Letter Agreement shall terminate and be of no further force
and effect concurrently with, and automatically upon, the
earlier to occur of (a) the consummation of the Merger,
(b) January 31, 2006 and (c) any termination of
the Agreement in accordance with its terms, except that any such
termination shall be without prejudice to FNBs rights
arising out of my willful breach of any covenant or
representation contained herein.
Number of Shares Held:
Shares:
[ shares
held individually]
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Acknowledged and Agreed: |
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NORTH EAST BANCSHARES, INC. |
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David B. Hartman, |
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President and Chief Executive Officer |
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F.N.B. CORPORATION |
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Stephen J. Gurgovits |
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President and Chief Executive Officer |
A-49
APPENDIX B
August 12, 2005
Board of Directors
North East Bancshares, Inc.
5999 Station Road
North East, Pennsylvania 16478
Members of the Board:
You have requested our opinion as to the fairness, from a
financial point of view, to the holders of the outstanding
shares of the common stock (the Shares) of North
East Bancshares, Inc. (North East) of the proposed
merger by and between North East and F.N.B. Corporation
(F.N.B.). The terms of the proposed merger (the
Proposed Merger) by and between F.N.B. and North
East are set forth in the Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as
of April 22, 2005 (the Merger Agreement) and
provide that each Share will be converted into the right to
receive $107 in F.N.B. common stock or, in certain
circumstances, a mixture of F.N.B. common stock and cash (the
Merger Consideration).
Boenning & Scattergood, Inc. (Boenning), as part
of its investment banking business, regularly is engaged in the
valuation of assets, securities and companies in connection with
various types of asset and security transactions, including
mergers, acquisitions, private placements, public offerings and
valuations for various other purposes, and in the determination
of adequate consideration in such transactions. In the ordinary
course of its business as a broker-dealer, Boenning may, from
time to time, purchase securities from, and sell securities to,
North East and F.N.B. In the ordinary course of business,
Boenning may actively trade the securities of North East and
F.N.B. for its own account and for the accounts of customers and
accordingly may at any time hold a long or short position in
such securities.
In arriving at our opinion, we have, among other things:
(i) reviewed the historical financial performance, current
financial position and general prospects of North East and
F.N.B. and reviewed certain internal financial analyses and
forecasts prepared by the management of North East,
(ii) reviewed the Merger Agreement, (iii) reviewed and
analyzed the stock market performance of North East and F.N.B.,
(iv) studied and analyzed the consolidated financial and
operating data of North East and F.N.B., (v) considered the
terms and conditions of the Proposed Merger between North East
and F.N.B. as compared with the terms and conditions of
comparable bank, bank holding company and financial holding
company mergers and acquisitions, (vi) met and/or
communicated with certain members of North Easts and
F.N.B.s senior management to discuss their respective
operations, historical financial statements and future
prospects, (viii) reviewed the proxy statement/prospectus
and (ix) conducted such other financial analyses, studies
and investigations as we deemed appropriate.
Our opinion is given in reliance on information and
representations made or given by North East and F.N.B., and
their respective officers, directors, auditors, counsel and
other agents, and on filings, releases and other information
issued by North East and F.N.B. including financial statements,
financial projections, and stock price data as well as certain
information from recognized independent sources. We have not
independently verified the information concerning North East and
F.N.B. nor other data which we have considered in our review
and, for purposes of the opinion set forth below, we have
assumed and relied upon the accuracy and completeness of all
such information and data. We have not conducted any valuation
or appraisal of any assets or liabilities of North East or
F.N.B., nor have any valuations or appraisals been
4 Tower Bridge 200 Barr Harbor Drive
Suite 300 West Conshohocken PA 19428-2979
(610) 832-1212 (800) 883-1212 FAX
(610) 832-5301
B-1
Members of the Board
North East Bancshares, Inc.
August 12, 2005
Page 2
provided to us. Additionally, we assume that the Proposed Merger
is, in all respects, lawful under applicable law.
With regard to financial and other information relating to the
general prospects of North East or F.N.B., we have assumed that
such information has been reasonably prepared and reflects the
best currently available estimates and judgment of the
respective managements of North East and F.N.B. as to their most
likely future performance and the cost savings and other
potential synergies (including the amount, timing and
achievability thereof) anticipated to result from the Proposed
Merger. For North East and F.N.B., we have assumed the allowance
for loan losses indicated on the balance sheets of each entity
is adequate to cover such losses; we have not reviewed
individual loans or credit files of either North East or F.N.B.
Also, in rendering our opinion, we have assumed that in the
course of obtaining the necessary regulatory approvals for the
Proposed Merger no conditions will be imposed that will have a
material adverse effect on the contemplated benefits of the
Proposed Merger to North East or F.N.B. or, on a pro forma
basis, the resulting company following the Proposed Merger.
Our opinion is based upon information provided to us by the
respective managements of North East and F.N.B., as well as
market, economic, financial and other conditions as they exist
and can be evaluated only as of the date hereof and speaks to no
other period. Our opinion pertains only to the Merger
Consideration to the holders of Shares in the Proposed Merger,
is for the information of North Easts Board of Directors
in connection with its evaluation of the Proposed Merger and
does not constitute a recommendation to the Board of North East
and does not constitute a recommendation to North East
shareholders as to how such shareholders should vote on the
Proposed Merger. We are not expressing any opinion as to the
actual value of F.N.B. common stock when issued pursuant to the
Proposed Merger or the prices at which F.N.B. common stock will
trade subsequent to the Proposed Merger.
Based on the foregoing, it is our opinion that, as of the date
hereof that the Merger Consideration offered pursuant to the
Merger Agreement, is fair, from a financial point of view, to
the holders of the Shares.
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Sincerely, |
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/s/ Boenning & Scattergood, Inc. |
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BOENNING & SCATTERGOOD, INC. |
4 Tower Bridge 200 Barr Harbor Drive
Suite 300 West Conshohocken PA 19428-2979
(610) 832-1212 (800) 883-1212 FAX
(610) 832-5301
B-2
APPENDIX C
STATUTORY PROVISIONS CONCERNING APPRAISAL RIGHTS OF
NORTH EAST SHAREHOLDERS
PENNSYLVANIA BUSINESS CORPORATION LAW OF 1988
SUBCHAPTER D. DISSENTERS RIGHTS
AND SECTION 1930. DISSENTERS RIGHTS
§ 1571. Application and effect of
subchapter.
(a) General rule. Except as otherwise
provided in subsection (b), any shareholder (as defined in
section 1572 (relating to definitions)) of a business
corporation shall have the right to dissent from, and to obtain
payment of the fair value of his shares in the event of, any
corporate action, or to otherwise obtain fair value for his
shares, only where this part expressly provides that a
shareholder shall have the rights and remedies provided in this
subchapter. See:
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Section 1906(c) (relating to dissenters rights upon special
treatment). |
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Section 1930 (relating to dissenters rights). |
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Section 1931(d) (relating to dissenters rights in share
exchanges). |
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Section 1932(c) (relating to dissenters rights in asset
transfers). |
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Section 1952(d) (relating to dissenters rights in division). |
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Section 1962(c) (relating to dissenters rights in
conversion). |
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Section 2104(b) (relating to procedure). |
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Section 2324 (relating to corporation option where a
restriction on transfer of a security is held invalid). |
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Section 2325(b) (relating to minimum vote requirement). |
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Section 2704(c) (relating to dissenters rights upon
election). |
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Section 2705(d) (relating to dissenters rights upon renewal
of election). |
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Section 2904(b) (relating to procedure). |
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Section 2907(a) (relating to proceedings to terminate
breach of qualifying conditions). |
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Section 7104(b)(3) (relating to procedure). |
(b) Exceptions.
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(1) Except as otherwise provided in paragraph (2), the
holders of the shares of any class or series of shares shall not
have the right to dissent and obtain payment of the fair value
of the shares under this subchapter if, on the record date fixed
to determine the shareholders entitled to notice of and to vote
at the meeting at which a plan specified in any of
section 1930, 1931(d), 1932(c) or 1952(d) is to be voted
on, or on the date of the first public announcement that such a
plan has been approved by the shareholders by consent without a
meeting, the shares are either: |
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(i) listed on a national securities exchange or designated
as a national market system security on an interdealer quotation
system by the National Association of Securities Dealers,
Inc.; or |
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(ii) held beneficially or of record by more than 2,000
persons. |
C-1
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(2) Paragraph (1) shall not apply to and
dissenters rights shall be available without regard to the
exception provided in that paragraph in the case of: |
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(i) (Repealed.) |
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(ii) Shares of any preferred or special class or series
unless the articles, the plan or the terms of the transaction
entitle all shareholders of the class or series to vote thereon
and require for the adoption of the plan or the effectuation of
the transaction the affirmative vote of a majority of the votes
cast by all shareholders of the class or series. |
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(iii) Shares entitled to dissenters rights under
section 1906(c) (relating to dissenters rights upon special
treatment). |
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(3) The shareholders of a corporation that acquires by
purchase, lease, exchange or other disposition all or
substantially all of the shares, property or assets of another
corporation by the issuance of shares, obligations or otherwise,
with or without assuming the liabilities of the other
corporation and with or without the intervention of another
corporation or other person, shall not be entitled to the rights
and remedies of dissenting shareholders provided in this
subchapter regardless of the fact, if it be the case, that the
acquisition was accomplished by the issuance of voting shares of
the corporation to be outstanding immediately after the
acquisition sufficient to elect a majority or more of the
directors of the corporation. |
(c) Grant of optional dissenters rights.
The bylaws or a resolution of the board of directors may direct
that all or a part of the shareholders shall have dissenters
rights in connection with any corporate action or other
transaction that would otherwise not entitle such shareholders
to dissenters rights.
(d) Notice of dissenters rights. Unless
otherwise provided by statute, if a proposed corporate action
that would give rise to dissenters rights under this subpart is
submitted to a vote at a meeting of shareholders, there shall be
included in or enclosed with the notice of meeting:
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(1) a statement of the proposed action and a statement that
the shareholders have a right to dissent and obtain payment of
the fair value of their shares by complying with the terms of
this subchapter; and |
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(2) a copy of this subchapter. |
(e) Other statutes. The procedures of
this subchapter shall also be applicable to any transaction
described in any statute other than this part that makes
reference to this subchapter for the purpose of granting
dissenters rights.
(f) Certain provisions of articles
ineffective. This subchapter may not be relaxed
by any provision of the articles.
(g) Computation of beneficial ownership.
For purposes of subsection (b)(1)(ii), shares that are held
beneficially as joint tenants, tenants by the entireties,
tenants in common or in trust by two or more persons, as
fiduciaries or otherwise, shall be deemed to be held
beneficially by one person.
(h) Cross references. See sections 1105
(relating to restriction on equitable relief), 1904 (relating to
de facto transaction doctrine abolished), 1763(c) (relating to
determination of shareholders of record) and 2512 (relating to
dissenters rights procedure).
§ 1572. Definitions.
The following words and phrases when used in this subchapter
shall have the meanings given to them in this section unless the
context clearly indicates otherwise:
Corporation. The
issuer of the shares held or owned by the dissenter before the
corporate action or the successor by merger, consolidation,
division, conversion or otherwise of that issuer. A plan of
division may designate which one or more of the resulting
corporations is the successor corporation for the purpose of
this subchapter. The designated successor corporation or
corporations in a division shall have sole responsibility for
C-2
payments to dissenters and other liabilities under this
subchapter except as otherwise provided in the plan of division.
Dissenter. A shareholder who is entitled to
and does assert dissenters rights under this subchapter and who
has performed every act required up to the time involved for the
assertion of those rights.
Fair value. The fair value of shares
immediately before the effectuation of the corporate action to
which the dissenter objects, taking into account all relevant
factors, but excluding any appreciation or depreciation in
anticipation of the corporate action.
Interest. Interest from the effective date of
the corporate action until the date of payment at such rate as
is fair and equitable under all the circumstances, taking into
account all relevant factors, including the average rate
currently paid by the corporation on its principal bank loans.
Shareholder. A shareholder as defined in
section 1103 (relating to definitions), or an ultimate
beneficial owner of shares, including, without limitation, a
holder of depository receipts, where the beneficial interest
owned includes an interest in the assets of the corporation upon
dissolution.
§ 1573. Record and beneficial holders and
owners.
(a) Record holders of shares. A record
holder of shares of a business corporation may assert dissenters
rights as to fewer than all of the shares registered in his name
only if he dissents with respect to all the shares of the same
class or series beneficially owned by any one person and
discloses the name and address of the person or persons on whose
behalf he dissents. In that event, his rights shall be
determined as if the shares as to which he has dissented and his
other shares were registered in the names of different
shareholders.
(b) Beneficial owners of shares. A
beneficial owner of shares of a business corporation who is not
the record holder may assert dissenters rights with respect to
shares held on his behalf and shall be treated as a dissenting
shareholder under the terms of this subchapter if he submits to
the corporation not later than the time of the assertion of
dissenters rights a written consent of the record holder. A
beneficial owner may not dissent with respect to some but less
than all shares of the same class or series owned by the owner,
whether or not the shares so owned by him are registered in his
name.
§ 1574. Notice of intention to dissent.
If the proposed corporate action is submitted to a vote at a
meeting of shareholders of a business corporation, any person
who wishes to dissent and obtain payment of the fair value of
his shares must file with the corporation, prior to the vote, a
written notice of intention to demand that he be paid the fair
value for his shares if the proposed action is effectuated, must
effect no change in the beneficial ownership of his shares from
the date of such filing continuously through the effective date
of the proposed action and must refrain from voting his shares
in approval of such action. A dissenter who fails in any respect
shall not acquire any right to payment of the fair value of his
shares under this subchapter. Neither a proxy nor a vote against
the proposed corporate action shall constitute the written
notice required by this section.
§ 1575. Notice to demand payment.
(a) General rule. If the proposed
corporate action is approved by the required vote at a meeting
of shareholders of a business corporation, the corporation shall
mail a further notice to all dissenters who gave due notice of
intention to demand payment of the fair value of their shares
and who refrained from voting in favor of the proposed action.
If the proposed corporate action is to be taken without a vote
of shareholders, the corporation shall send to all shareholders
who are entitled to dissent and demand payment of the fair value
of their shares a notice of the adoption of the plan or other
corporate action. In either case, the notice shall:
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(1) State where and when a demand for payment must be sent
and certificates for certificated shares must be deposited in
order to obtain payment. |
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(2) Inform holders of uncertificated shares to what extent
transfer of shares will be restricted from the time that demand
for payment is received. |
C-3
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(3) Supply a form for demanding payment that includes a
request for certification of the date on which the shareholder,
or the person on whose behalf the shareholder dissents, acquired
beneficial ownership of the shares. |
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(4) Be accompanied by a copy of this subchapter. |
(b) Time for receipt of demand for
payment. The time set for receipt of the demand
and deposit of certificated shares shall be not less than
30 days from the mailing of the notice.
§ 1576. Failure to comply with notice to
demand payment, etc.
(a) Effect of failure of shareholder to
act. A shareholder who fails to timely demand
payment, or fails (in the case of certificated shares) to timely
deposit certificates, as required by a notice pursuant to
section 1575 (relating to notice to demand payment) shall
not have any right under this subchapter to receive payment of
the fair value of his shares.
(b) Restriction on uncertificated
shares. If the shares are not represented by
certificates, the business corporation may restrict their
transfer from the time of receipt of demand for payment until
effectuation of the proposed corporate action or the release of
restrictions under the terms of section 1577(a) (relating
to failure to effectuate corporate action).
(c) Rights retained by shareholder. The
dissenter shall retain all other rights of a shareholder until
those rights are modified by effectuation of the proposed
corporate action.
§ 1577. Release of restrictions or payment for
shares.
(a) Failure to effectuate corporate
action. Within 60 days after the date set
for demanding payment and depositing certificates, if the
business corporation has not effectuated the proposed corporate
action, it shall return any certificates that have been
deposited and release uncertificated shares from any transfer
restrictions imposed by reason of the demand for payment.
(b) Renewal of notice to demand payment.
When uncertificated shares have been released from transfer
restrictions and deposited certificates have been returned, the
corporation may at any later time send a new notice conforming
to the requirements of section 1575 (relating to notice to
demand payment), with like effect.
(c) Payment of fair value of shares.
Promptly after effectuation of the proposed corporate action, or
upon timely receipt of demand for payment if the corporate
action has already been effectuated, the corporation shall
either remit to dissenters who have made demand and (if their
shares are certificated) have deposited their certificates the
amount that the corporation estimates to be the fair value of
the shares, or give written notice that no remittance under this
section will be made. The remittance or notice shall be
accompanied by:
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(1) The closing balance sheet and statement of income of
the issuer of the shares held or owned by the dissenter for a
fiscal year ending not more than 16 months before the date
of remittance or notice together with the latest available
interim financial statements. |
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(2) A statement of the corporations estimate of the
fair value of the shares. |
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(3) A notice of the right of the dissenter to demand
payment or supplemental payment, as the case may be, accompanied
by a copy of this subchapter. |
(d) Failure to make payment. If the
corporation does not remit the amount of its estimate of the
fair value of the shares as provided by subsection (c), it
shall return any certificates that have been deposited and
release uncertificated shares from any transfer restrictions
imposed by reason of the demand for payment. The corporation may
make a notation on any such certificate or on the records of the
corporation relating to any such uncertificated shares that such
demand has been made. If shares with respect to which notation
has been so made shall be transferred, each new certificate
issued therefor or the records relating to any transferred
uncertificated shares shall bear a similar notation, together
with the name of the original dissenting holder or
C-4
owner of such shares. A transferee of such shares shall not
acquire by such transfer any rights in the corporation other
than those that the original dissenter had after making demand
for payment of their fair value.
§ 1578. Estimate by dissenter of fair value of
shares.
(a) General rule. If the business
corporation gives notice of its estimate of the fair value of
the shares, without remitting such amount, or remits payment of
its estimate of the fair value of a dissenters shares as
permitted by section 1577(c) (relating to payment of fair
value of shares) and the dissenter believes that the amount
stated or remitted is less than the fair value of his shares, he
may send to the corporation his own estimate of the fair value
of the shares, which shall be deemed a demand for payment of the
amount or the deficiency.
(b) Effect of failure to file estimate.
Where the dissenter does not file his own estimate under
subsection (a) within 30 days after the mailing
by the corporation of its remittance or notice, the dissenter
shall be entitled to no more than the amount stated in the
notice or remitted to him by the corporation.
§ 1579. Valuation proceedings generally.
(a) General rule. Within 60 days
after the latest of:
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(1) effectuation of the proposed corporate action; |
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(2) timely receipt of any demands for payment under
section 1575 (relating to notice to demand payment); or |
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(3) timely receipt of any estimates pursuant to
section 1578 (relating to estimate by dissenter of fair
value of shares); |
if any demands for payment remain unsettled, the business
corporation may file in court an application for relief
requesting that the fair value of the shares be determined by
the court.
(b) Mandatory joinder of dissenters. All
dissenters, wherever residing, whose demands have not been
settled shall be made parties to the proceeding as in an action
against their shares. A copy of the application shall be served
on each such dissenter. If a dissenter is a nonresident, the
copy may be served on him in the manner provided or prescribed
by or pursuant to 42 Pa.C.S. Ch. 53 (relating to bases of
jurisdiction and interstate and international procedure).
(c) Jurisdiction of the court. The
jurisdiction of the court shall be plenary and exclusive. The
court may appoint an appraiser to receive evidence and recommend
a decision on the issue of fair value. The appraiser shall have
such power and authority as may be specified in the order of
appointment or in any amendment thereof.
(d) Measure of recovery. Each dissenter
who is made a party shall be entitled to recover the amount by
which the fair value of his shares is found to exceed the
amount, if any, previously remitted, plus interest.
(e) Effect of corporations failure to file
application. If the corporation fails to file an
application as provided in subsection (a), any dissenter
who made a demand and who has not already settled his claim
against the corporation may do so in the name of the corporation
at any time within 30 days after the expiration of the
60-day period. If a dissenter does not file an application
within the 30-day period, each dissenter entitled to file an
application shall be paid the corporations estimate of the
fair value of the shares and no more, and may bring an action to
recover any amount not previously remitted.
§ 1580. Costs and expenses of valuation
proceedings.
(a) General rule. The costs and expenses
of any proceeding under section 1579 (relating to valuation
proceedings generally), including the reasonable compensation
and expenses of the appraiser appointed by the court, shall be
determined by the court and assessed against the business
corporation except that any part of the costs and expenses may
be apportioned and assessed as the court deems appropriate
against all or some of
C-5
the dissenters who are parties and whose action in demanding
supplemental payment under section 1578 (relating to
estimate by dissenter of fair value of shares) the court finds
to be dilatory, obdurate, arbitrary, vexatious or in bad faith.
(b) Assessment of counsel fees and expert fees where
lack of good faith appears. Fees and expenses of
counsel and of experts for the respective parties may be
assessed as the court deems appropriate against the corporation
and in favor of any or all dissenters if the corporation failed
to comply substantially with the requirements of this subchapter
and may be assessed against either the corporation or a
dissenter, in favor of any other party, if the court finds that
the party against whom the fees and expenses are assessed acted
in bad faith or in a dilatory, obdurate, arbitrary or vexatious
manner in respect to the rights provided by this subchapter.
(c) Award of fees for benefits to other
dissenters. If the court finds that the services
of counsel for any dissenter were of substantial benefit to
other dissenters similarly situated and should not be assessed
against the corporation, it may award to those counsel
reasonable fees to be paid out of the amounts awarded to the
dissenters who were benefited.
§ 1930. Dissenters rights.
(a) General rule. If any shareholder of
a domestic business corporation that is to be a party to a
merger or consolidation pursuant to a plan of merger or
consolidation objects to the plan of merger or consolidation and
complies with the provisions of Subchapter D of Chapter 15
(relating to dissenters rights), the shareholder shall be
entitled to the rights and remedies of dissenting shareholders
therein provided, if any. See also section 1906(c)
(relating to dissenters rights upon special treatment).
(b) Plans adopted by directors only.
Except as otherwise provided pursuant to section 1571(c)
(relating to grant of optional dissenters rights), Subchapter D
of Chapter 15 shall not apply to any of the shares of a
corporation that is a party to a merger or consolidation
pursuant to section 1924(b)(1)(i) or (4) (relating to
adoption by board of directors).
(c) Cross references. See sections
1571(b) (relating to exceptions) and 1904 (relating to de facto
transaction doctrine abolished).
C-6
PART II: INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS
Item 20. Indemnification
of Directors and Officers.
The Florida Business Corporations Act, as amended (the
Florida Act), provides that, in general, a business
corporation may indemnify any person who is or was a party to
any proceeding, other than an action by, or in the right of, the
corporation, by reason of the fact that he or she is or was a
director or officer of the corporation, against liability
incurred in connection with such proceeding, including any
appeal thereof, provided certain standards are met, including
that such officer or director acted in good faith and in a
manner he or she reasonably believed to be in, or not opposed
to, the best interests of the corporation, and provided further
that, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, the
officer or director had no reasonable cause to believe his or
her conduct was unlawful. In the case of proceedings by or in
the right of the corporation, the Florida Act provides that, in
general, a corporation may indemnify any person who was or is a
party to any such proceeding by reason of the fact that he or
she is or was a director or officer of the corporation against
expenses and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably
incurred in connection with the defense or settlement of such
proceeding, including any appeal thereof, provided that such
person acted in good faith and in a manner he or she reasonably
believed to be in, or not opposed to, the best interests of the
corporation, except that no indemnification shall be made with
respect to any claim as to which such person is adjudged liable,
unless a court of competent jurisdiction determines upon
application that such person is fairly and reasonably entitled
to indemnity. To the extent that any officer or director is
successful on the merits or otherwise in the defense of any of
such proceedings, the Florida Act provides that the corporation
is required to indemnify such officer or director against
expenses actually and reasonably incurred in connection
therewith. However, the Florida Act further provides that, in
general, indemnification or advancement of expenses shall not be
made to or on behalf of any officer or director if a judgment or
other final adjudication establishes that his or her actions, or
omissions to act, were material to the cause of action so
adjudicated and constitute: (i) a violation of the criminal
law, unless the director or officer had reasonable cause to
believe his or her conduct was lawful or had no reasonable cause
to believe it was unlawful; (ii) a transaction from which
the director or officer derived an improper personal benefit;
(iii) in the case of a director, a circumstance under which
the director has voted for or assented to a distribution made in
violation of the Florida Act or the corporations Articles
of Incorporation or (iv) willful misconduct or a conscious
disregard for the best interests of the corporation in a
proceeding by or in the right of the corporation to procure a
judgment in its favor or in a proceeding by or in the right of a
shareholder.
The registrants Articles of Incorporation provide that the
registrant shall indemnify its directors and officers to the
fullest extent permitted by law in connection with any actual or
threatened action, suit or proceeding, civil, criminal,
administrative, investigative or other (whether brought by or in
the right of the registrant or otherwise) arising out of the
service to the registrant or to another organization at the
registrants request, or because of their positions with
the registrant. FNBs Articles of Incorporation further
provide that the registrant may purchase and maintain insurance
to protect itself and any such director or officer against any
liability, cost or expense asserted against or incurred by him
or her with respect to such service, whether or not the
registrant would have the power to indemnify him or her against
such liability by law or under the provisions of this paragraph.
The registrants By-laws provide that to the fullest extent
permitted by law, no director of the registrant shall be
personally liable for monetary damages for any action taken or
any failure to take any action.
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Item 21. |
Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules. |
The following exhibits are filed with or incorporated by
reference in this Registration Statement:
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Exhibit No. |
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Description of Exhibit |
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2.1 |
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Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of April 22, 2005
between F.N.B. Corporation and North East Bancshares, Inc.
(included as Appendix A to this proxy statement/ prospectus) |
|
5.1 |
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Opinion of Duane Morris LLP* |
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8.1 |
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Tax Opinion of Duane Morris LLP* |
II-1
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Exhibit No. |
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Description of Exhibit |
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8.2 |
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Tax Opinion of Buchanan Ingersoll PC* |
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10.1 |
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Executive Employment Agreement between David B. Hartman and
North East Bancshares, Inc.* |
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15.1 |
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Acknowledgement of Ernst & Young LLP dated
June 20, 2005 to the Board of Directors of F.N.B.
Corporation* |
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23.1 |
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Consent of Ernst & Young LLP |
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23.2 |
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Consent of Parente Randolph, LLC |
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23.3 |
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Consent of Buchanan Ingersoll PC (included in Exhibit 8.2)* |
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23.4 |
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Consent of Boenning & Scattergood, Inc. |
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23.5 |
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Consent of Duane Morris LLP (included in Exhibits 5.1 and
8.1)* |
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24.1 |
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Power of Attorney (included on pages II-4 and II-5 of the
initial filing of this registration statement) |
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99.1 |
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Proxy for Special Meeting of Shareholders of North East
Bancshares, Inc. |
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99.2 |
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Opinion of Boenning & Scattergood, Inc. (included as
Appendix B to this proxy statement/ prospectus) |
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* |
Filed with the initial filing of this registration statement. |
(a) The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes:
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(1) To file, during any period in which offers or sales are
being made, a post-effective amendment to this registration
statement: |
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(i) To include any prospectus required by
Section 10(a)(3) of the Securities Act of 1933; |
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(ii) To reflect in the prospectus any facts or events
arising after the effective date of the registration statement
(or the most recent post-effective amendment thereof) which,
individually or in the aggregate, represent a fundamental change
in the information set forth in the registration statement.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, any increase or decrease in
volume of securities offered (if the total dollar value of
securities offered would not exceed that which was registered)
and any deviation from the low or high end of the estimated
maximum offering range may be reflected in the form of
prospectus filed with the Commission pursuant to
Rule 424(b) if, in the aggregate, the changes in volume and
price represent no more than a 20% change in the maximum
aggregate offering price set forth in the Calculation of
Registration Fee table in the effective registration
statement; |
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(iii) To include any material information with respect to
the plan of distribution not previously disclosed in the
registration statement or any material change in such
information in the registration statement. |
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(2) That, for the purpose of determining any liability
under the Securities Act of 1933, each such post-effective
amendment shall be deemed to be a new registration statement
relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of
such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial
bona fide offering thereof. |
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(3) To remove from registration by means of a
post-effective amendment any of the securities being registered
which remain unsold at the termination of the offering. |
(b) The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes that, for
purposes of determining any liability under the Securities Act,
each filing of the registrants annual report pursuant to
Section 13(a) or Section 15(d) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934 (and, where applicable, each filing of an
employee benefit plans annual report pursuant to
Section 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) that
is incorporated by reference in the registration statement shall
be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to the
securities offered
II-2
therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall
be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.
(c) The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes to deliver
or cause to be delivered with the prospectus, to each person to
whom the prospectus is sent or given, the latest annual report
to security holders that is incorporated by reference in the
prospectus and furnished pursuant to and meeting the
requirements of Rule 14a-3 or Rule 14c-3 under the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and, where interim financial
information required to be presented by Article 3 of
Regulation S-X are not set forth in the prospectus, to
deliver, or cause to be delivered to each person to whom the
prospectus is sent or given, the latest quarterly report that is
specifically incorporated by reference in the prospectus to
provide such interim financial information.
(d) (1) The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes
as follows: that prior to any public reoffering of the
securities registered hereunder through use of a prospectus
which is a part of this registration statement, by any person or
party who is deemed to be an underwriter within the meaning of
Rule 145(c), the issuer undertakes that such reoffering
prospectus will contain the information called for by the
applicable registration form with respect to reofferings by
persons who may be deemed underwriters, in addition to the
information called for by the other items of the applicable form.
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(2) The registrant undertakes that every prospectus
(i) that is filed pursuant to
paragraph (1) immediately preceding, or (ii) that
purports to meet the requirements of Section 10(a)(3) of
the Act and is used in connection with an offering of securities
subject to Rule 415, will be filed as a part of an
amendment to the registration statement and will not be used
until such amendment is effective, and that, for purposes of
determining any liability under the Securities Act of 1933, each
such post-effective amendment shall be deemed to be a new
registration statement relating to the securities offered
therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall
be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof. |
(e) Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising
under the Securities Act of 1933 may be permitted to directors,
officers and controlling persons of the registrant pursuant to
the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, the registrant has been
advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange
Commission such indemnification is against public policy as
expressed in the Securities Act and is, therefore,
unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification
against such liabilities (other than the payment by the
registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer
or controlling person of the registrant in the successful
defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such
director, officer or controlling person in connection with the
securities being registered, the registrant will, unless in the
opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by
controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate
jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by it is
against public policy as expressed in the Act and will be
governed by the final adjudication of such issue.
(f) The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes to respond
to requests for information that is incorporated by reference
into the prospectus pursuant to Items 4, 10(b), 11 or 13 of
this Form, within one business day of receipt of such request,
and to send the incorporated documents by first class mail or
other equally prompt means. This includes information contained
in documents filed subsequent to the effective date of the
registration statement through the date of responding to the
request.
(g) The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes to supply
by means of a post-effective amendment all information
concerning a transaction, and the company being acquired
involved therein, that was not the subject of and included in
the registration statement when it became effective.
II-3
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act, the
registrant has duly caused this registration statement to be
signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly
authorized, in the Town of Hermitage, Commonwealth of
Pennsylvania, on August 12, 2005.
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By: |
/s/ Stephen J. Gurgovits |
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Stephen J. Gurgovits |
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President and Chief Executive Officer |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the
registration statement has been signed by the following persons
in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
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Signature |
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Title |
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Date |
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*
Peter
Mortensen |
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Chairman of the Board |
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August 12, 2005 |
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/s/ Stephen J. Gurgovits
Stephen
J. Gurgovits |
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President, Chief Executive Officer and Director (principal
executive officer) |
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August 12, 2005 |
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/s/ Brian F. Lilly
Brian
F. Lilly |
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Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (principal financial
and accounting officer) |
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August 12, 2005 |
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*
William
B. Campbell |
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Director |
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August 12, 2005 |
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*
Henry
M. Ekker |
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Director |
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August 12, 2005 |
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*
Robert
B. Goldstein |
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Director |
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August 12, 2005 |
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*
David
J. Malone |
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Director |
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August 12, 2005 |
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*
Harry
F. Radcliffe |
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Director |
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August 12, 2005 |
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*
John
W. Rose |
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Director |
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August 12, 2005 |
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*
William
J. Strimbu |
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Director |
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August 12, 2005 |
II-4
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Signature |
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Title |
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Date |
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*
Earl
K. Wahl, Jr. |
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Director |
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August 12, 2005 |
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*
Archie
O. Wallace |
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Director |
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August 12, 2005 |
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Brian F. Lilly, attorney-in-fact
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II-5
EXHIBIT INDEX
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Exhibit |
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No. |
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Description of Exhibit |
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2 |
.1 |
|
Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of April 22, 2005
between F.N.B. Corporation and North East Bancshares, Inc.
(included as Appendix A to this proxy statement/ prospectus) |
|
5 |
.1 |
|
Opinion of Duane Morris LLP* |
|
8 |
.1 |
|
Tax Opinion of Duane Morris LLP* |
|
8 |
.2 |
|
Tax Opinion of Buchanan Ingersoll PC* |
|
10 |
.1 |
|
Executive Employment Agreement between David B. Hartman and
North East Bancshares, Inc.* |
|
15 |
.1 |
|
Acknowledgement of Ernst & Young LLP dated
June 20, 2005 to the Board of Directors of F.N.B.
Corporation |
|
23 |
.1 |
|
Consent of Ernst & Young LLP |
|
23 |
.2 |
|
Consent of Parente Randolph, LLC |
|
23 |
.3 |
|
Consent of Buchanan Ingersoll PC (included in Exhibit 8.2)* |
|
23 |
.4 |
|
Consent of Boenning & Scattergood, Inc. |
|
23 |
.5 |
|
Consent of Duane Morris LLP (included in Exhibits 5.1 and
8.1)* |
|
24 |
.1 |
|
Power of Attorney (included on pages II-4 and II-5 of the
initial filing of this registration statement) |
|
99 |
.1 |
|
Proxy for Special Meeting of Shareholders of North East
Bancshares, Inc. |
|
99 |
.2 |
|
Opinion of Boenning & Scattergood, Inc. (included as
Appendix B to this proxy statement/ prospectus) |
|
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* |
Filed with the initial filing of this registration statement. |