form1k.htm

 
 

 

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
[ X ]
ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the Year Ended December 31, 2007

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

Commission file number 0-27782
Dime Community Bancshares, Inc.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Delaware
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
 
11-3297463
(I.R.S. employer identification number)
 
209 Havemeyer Street, Brooklyn, NY
(Address of principal executive offices)
 
 
11211
(Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (718) 782-6200

Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
None

Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
Common Stock, par value $.01 per share
(Title of Class)
Preferred Stock Purchase Rights
(Title of Class)

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasonal issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.YES       NO X  

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Act.YES       NO X  

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

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (Section 229.405 of this chapter) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.   [X]

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
LARGE ACCELERATED FILER             ACCELERATED FILER   X        NON-ACCELERATED FILER ___      SMALLER REPORTING COMPANY ____

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

The aggregate market value of the voting stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant as of June 30, 2007 was approximately $362.4 million based upon the $13.19 closing price on the NASDAQ National Market for a share of the registrant’s common stock on June 30, 2007.

      As of March 12, 2008, there were 33,869,390 shares of the registrant’s common stock, $0.01 par value, outstanding.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Portions of the definitive Proxy Statement to be distributed on behalf of the Board of Directors of Registrant in connection with the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on May 15, 2008 and any adjournment thereof, and are incorporated by reference in Part III.

F-3


 
 

 


 
 
TABLE OF CONTENTS
   
 
Page
PART I
 
Item 1. Business
 
General
F-3
Market Area and Competition
F-4
Lending Activities
F-5
Asset Quality
F-11
Allowance for Loan Losses
F-15
Investment Activities
F-16
Sources of Funds
F-19
Subsidiary Activities
F-22
Personnel
F-22
Federal, State and Local Taxation
F-23
Federal Taxation
F-23
State and Local Taxation
F-23
Regulation
F-24
General
F-24
Regulation of Federal Savings Associations
F-24
Regulation of Holding Company
F-32
Federal Securities Laws
F-33
Item 1A. Risk Factors
F-33
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments
F-35
Item 2. Properties
F-35
Item 3. Legal Proceedings
F-35
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders
F-35
PART II
 
Item 5. Market for the Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and
Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
 
F-35
Item 6. Selected Financial Data
F-38
Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
F-40
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
F-57
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
F-62
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
F-62
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures
F-62
Item 9B.  Other Information
F-62
PART III
 
Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
F-64
Item 11. Executive Compensation
F-64
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management
 
and Related Stockholder Matters
F-64
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
F-65
Item 14. Principal Accounting Fees and Services
F-65
PART IV
 
Item 15. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules
F-65
Signatures
F-66


F-3


 
 

 

This Annual Report on Form 10-K contains a number of forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”).  These statements may be identified by use of words such as "anticipate," "believe," "could," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "seek," "may," "outlook," "plan," "potential," "predict," "project," "should," "will," "would" and similar terms and phrases, including references to assumptions.

Forward-looking statements are based upon various assumptions and analyses made by the Company (as defined subsequently herein) in light of management’s experience and its perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors it believes appropriate under the circumstances. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors (many of which are beyond the Company’s control) that could cause actual conditions or results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These factors include, without limitation, the following:

·  
the timing and occurrence or non-occurrence of events may be subject to circumstances beyond the Company’s control;
·  
there may be increases in competitive pressure among financial institutions or from non-financial institutions;
·  
changes in the interest rate environment may reduce interest margins;
·  
changes in deposit flows, loan demand or real estate values may adversely affect the business of The Dime Savings Bank of Williamsburgh (the “Bank”);
·  
changes in accounting principles, policies or guidelines may cause the Company’s financial condition to be perceived differently;
·  
changes in corporate and/or individual income tax laws;
·  
general economic conditions, either nationally or locally in some or all areas in which the Company conducts business, or conditions in the securities markets or the banking industry may be less favorable than the Company currently anticipates;
·  
legislation or regulatory changes may adversely affect the Company’s business;
·  
technological changes may be more difficult or expensive than the Company  anticipates;
·  
success or consummation of new business initiatives may be more difficult or expensive than the Company anticipates; or
·  
litigation or other matters before regulatory agencies, whether currently existing or commencing in the future, may delay the occurrence or non-occurrence of events longer than the Company anticipates.

The Company has no obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this document.

PART I

Item 1.                      Business

General

Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. (the “Holding Company,” and together with its direct and indirect subsidiaries, the “Company”) is a Delaware corporation and parent company of the Bank, a federally-chartered stock savings bank.  The Bank maintains its headquarters in the Williamsburg section of the borough of Brooklyn, New York and operates twenty-one full-service retail banking offices located in the New York City ("NYC") boroughs of Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx, and in Nassau County, New York.

The Bank’s principal business has been, and continues to be, gathering deposits from customers within its market area, and investing them primarily in multifamily residential mortgage loans, commercial real estate loans, one- to four-family residential mortgage loans, construction and land acquisition loans, consumer loans, mortgage-backed securities (“MBS”), obligations of the U.S. Government and Government Sponsored Entities ("GSEs"), and corporate debt and equity securities. The Bank’s revenues are derived principally from interest on its loan and securities portfolios and other short-term investments. The Bank’s primary sources of funds are deposits; loan amortization, prepayments and maturities; MBS amortization, prepayments and maturities; investment securities maturities and sales; advances from the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York (“FHLBNY”); securities sold under agreement to repurchase (“REPOS”); and the sale of real estate loans to the secondary market.

The primary business of the Holding Company is the operation of its wholly-owned subsidiary, the Bank. The Holding Company is a unitary savings and loan holding company, which, under existing law, is generally not restricted as to the types of business activities in which it may engage, provided that the Bank remains a qualified thrift lender (“QTL”).  Pursuant to regulations of the Office of Thrift Supervision (“OTS”), the Bank qualifies as a QTL if its ratio of qualified thrift investments to portfolio assets (“QTL Ratio”) was 65% or more, on a monthly average basis, in nine of the previous twelve months.  At December 31, 2007, the Bank’s QTL Ratio was 69.1%, and the Bank maintained more than 65% of its portfolio assets in qualified thrift investments throughout the year ended December 31, 2007.

The Holding Company neither owns nor leases any property but instead uses the premises and equipment of the Bank.  The Holding Company does not employ any persons other than certain officers of the Bank, who receive no additional compensation as officers of the Holding Company.  The Holding Company utilizes the support staff of the Bank from time to time, as required.  Additional employees may be hired as deemed appropriate by Holding Company management.

The Company’s website address is www.dimewill.com. The Company makes available free of charge through its website, by clicking the Investor Relations tab and selecting "SEC Filings," its Annual and Transition Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to these reports as soon as reasonably practicable after such material is electronically filed with or furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”).

Market Area and Competition

The Bank has historically operated as a community-oriented financial institution providing financial services and loans primarily for multifamily housing within its market areas.  The Bank maintains its headquarters in the Williamsburg section of the borough of Brooklyn, New York, and operates twenty-one full-service retail banking offices located in the NYC boroughs of Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx, and in Nassau County, New York.  The Bank gathers deposits primarily from the communities and neighborhoods in close proximity to its branches.  The Bank’s primary lending area is the NYC metropolitan area, although its overall lending area is much larger, extending approximately 150 miles in each direction from its corporate headquarters in Brooklyn.  The majority of the Bank’s mortgage loans are secured by properties located in its primary lending area, and approximately 75% of these loans were secured by real estate located in the NYC boroughs of Brooklyn, Queens and Manhattan on December 31, 2007.

The NYC banking environment is extremely competitive.  The Bank’s competition for loans exists principally from other savings banks, commercial banks, mortgage banks and insurance companies. The Bank has faced sustained competition for the origination of multifamily residential and commercial real estate loans, which together comprised 93% of the Bank’s loan portfolio at December 31, 2007.  Management anticipates that the current level of competition for multifamily residential and commercial real estate loans will continue for the foreseeable future, which may inhibit the Bank’s ability to maintain its current level of such loans.

The Bank gathers deposits in direct competition with other savings banks, commercial banks and brokerage firms, many among the largest in the nation.  It must additionally compete for deposit monies with the stock market and mutual funds, especially during periods of strong performance in the equity markets.  Over the previous decade, consolidation in the financial services industry, coupled with the emergence of Internet banking, has dramatically altered the deposit gathering landscape.  Facing increasingly larger and more efficient competitors, the Bank’s strategy to attract depositors has increasingly utilized targeted marketing and delivery of technology-enhanced, customer-friendly banking services while controlling operating expenses.

Banking competition occurs within an economic and financial marketplace that is largely beyond the control of any individual financial institution.  The interest rates paid to depositors and charged to borrowers, while affected by marketplace competition, are generally a function of broader-based macroeconomic and financial factors, including the level of U.S. Gross Domestic Product, the supply of, and demand for, loanable funds, and the impact of global trade and international financial markets.  Within this environment, the Federal Open Market Committee ("FOMC") monetary policy and governance of short-term rates also significantly influence the interest rates paid and charged by financial institutions.

The Bank’s success is additionally impacted by the overall condition of the economy, particularly in the NYC metropolitan area.  As home to several national companies in the financial and business services industries, and as a popular destination for domestic travelers, the NYC economy is particularly sensitive to the health of the national economy.  Success in banking is more easily achieved when local income levels increase due to economic strength.  The Bank has demonstrated that even in periods of intense competition, such as those that existed during 2003 through 2006, it can succeed by effectively implementing its business strategies.  However, if the local market for multifamily residential and commercial real estate declines, thereby potentially increasing competitive pressures, the Bank may be unable to originate the volume of loans that it otherwise anticipates.

Lending Activities

Loan Portfolio Composition.  At December 31, 2007, the Bank’s loan portfolio totaled $2.88 billion, consisting primarily of   mortgage loans secured by multifamily residential apartment buildings, including buildings organized under a cooperative form of ownership (“Underlying Cooperatives”); commercial properties; real estate construction and land acquisition; and one- to four-family residences and cooperative apartments.  Within the loan portfolio, $1.95 billion, or 67.8%, were classified as multifamily residential loans; $728.1 million, or 25.3%, were classified as commercial real estate loans; $145.7 million, or 5.1%, were classified as one- to four-family residential, including condominium or cooperative apartments; $1.0 million, or 0.04%, were loans to finance multifamily residential and one- to four-family residential properties with full or partial credit guarantees provided by either the Federal Housing Administration (‘’FHA’’) or the Veterans Administration (‘’VA’’); and $49.4 million, or 1.7%, were loans to finance real estate construction and land acquisition loans within the NYC metropolitan area.  Of the total mortgage loan portfolio outstanding at that date, $2.41 billion, or 83.9%, were adjustable-rate loans (‘’ARMs’’) and $461.5 million, or 16.1%, were fixed-rate loans.  Of the Bank’s multifamily residential and commercial real estate loans, over 80% were ARMs at December 31, 2007, the majority of which were contracted to reprice no later than 7 years from their origination date and carried a total amortization period of no longer than 30 years.  At December 31, 2007, the Bank’s loan portfolio additionally included $2.2 million in consumer loans, composed of passbook loans, consumer installment loans, overdraft loans and mortgagor advances.  As of December 31, 2007, $2.23 billion, or 77.6% of the loan portfolio, was scheduled to mature or reprice within five years.

The Bank does not originate or purchase loans, either whole loans or collateral underlying MBS, that would be considered subprime loans (i.e. mortgage loans advanced to borrowers who do not qualify for market interest rates because of problems with their income or credit history).

The types of loans the Bank may originate are subject to federal laws and regulations  (See "Item 1.  Business - Regulation – Regulation of Federal Savings Associations").

At December 31, 2007, the Bank had $102.4 million of loan commitments that were accepted by the borrowers.  All of these commitments are expected to close during the year ending December 31, 2008.  At December 31, 2006, the Bank had $53.8 million of loan commitments that were accepted by the borrower.  All of these commitments closed during 2007.



F-3


 
 

 


The following table sets forth the composition of the Bank’s real estate and other loan portfolios (including loans held for sale) in dollar amounts and percentages at the dates indicated:

 
At December 31,
 
 
2007
Percent of Total
 
2006
Percent of Total
 
2005
Percent of Total
 
2004
Percent of Total
 
2003
Percent of Total
 
Dollars in Thousands
Real Estate loans:
                   
Multifamily residential
$1,948,765 
67.78%
$1,855,080 
68.64%
$1,872,163 
71.69%
$1,917,447 
76.63%
$1,734,904 
79.07%
Commercial real estate
728,129 
25.32   
666,927 
24.68   
576,561 
22.08   
424,060 
16.95   
309,810 
14.12   
One- to four-family
139,541 
4.85   
146,613 
5.42   
135,622 
5.19   
126,225 
5.04   
124,047 
5.65   
Cooperative apartment units
6,172 
0.21   
7,224 
0.27   
10,115 
0.39   
11,853 
0.47   
13,798 
0.63   
FHA/VA insured
1,029 
0.04   
1,236 
0.05   
2,694 
0.10   
4,209 
0.17   
4,646 
0.21   
Construction and land acquisition
49,387 
1.72   
23,340 
0.86   
12,098 
0.46   
15,558 
0.62   
2,880 
0.13   
Total mortgage loans
2,873,023 
99.92   
2,700,420 
99.92   
2,609,253 
99.91   
2,499,352 
99.88   
2,190,085 
99.81   
Other loans:
                   
Student loans
-   
-    
-   
0.00   
-   
0.00   
61 
0.00   
295 
0.01   
Depositor loans
$1,122 
0.04   
1,172 
0.04   
1,160 
0.04   
1,318 
0.06   
2,371 
0.11   
Consumer installment and other
1,047 
0.04   
1,033 
0.04   
1,181 
0.05   
1,537 
0.06   
1,406 
0.07   
Total other loans
2,169 
0.08   
2,205 
0.08   
2,341 
0.09   
2,916 
0.12   
4,072 
0.19   
Gross loans
2,875,192 
100.00%
2,702,625 
100.00%
2,611,594 
100.00%
2,502,268 
100.00%
2,194,157 
100.00%
Net unearned costs (fees)
1,833 
 
1,048 
 
501 
 
(463)
 
(1,517)
 
Allowance for loan losses
(15,387)
 
(15,514)
 
(15,785)
 
(15,543)
 
(15,018)
 
Loans, net
$2,861,638 
 
$2,688,159 
 
$2,596,310 
 
$2,486,262 
 
$2,177,622 
 
Loans serviced for others:
                   
One- to four-family and
  cooperative apartment
 
$21,515 
 
 
$24,395 
 
 
$26,881 
 
 
$29,524 
 
 
$33,671 
 
Multifamily residential
541,868 
 
494,770 
 
386,781 
 
295,800 
 
157,774 
 
Total loans serviced for others
$563,383 
 
$519,165 
 
$413,662 
 
$325,324 
 
$191,445 
 

F-3


 
 

 

Loan Originations, Purchases, Sales and Servicing.  For the year ended December 31, 2007, total loan originations were $576.3 million.  The Bank originates both ARMs and fixed-rate loans, depending upon customer demand and market rates of interest.  ARM originations were approximately 96% of total loan originations during the period.  The majority of both ARM and fixed-rate originations were multifamily residential and commercial real estate loans.  Multifamily residential real estate loans are either retained in the Bank's portfolio or sold in the secondary market to the Federal National Mortgage Association ("FNMA"), and occasionally to other third-party financial institutions.  One- to four-family adjustable rate and fixed-rate mortgage loans with maturities up to 15 years are generally retained for the Bank’s portfolio.  Generally, the Bank sells its newly originated one- to four-family fixed-rate mortgage loans with maturities greater than fifteen years in the secondary market to FNMA.

The Bank sells multifamily residential loans to FNMA pursuant to a multifamily seller/servicing agreement entered into in December 2002.  The majority of the loans sold under the agreement since its inception possessed a minimum term to maturity or repricing of seven years.  The Bank sold $71.4 million, $144.7 million and $106.6 million of such loans to FNMA during the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively.  The Bank additionally sold one multifamily loan with a principal balance of $6.1 million to a third party financial institution during the year ended December 31, 2007.

The Bank currently has no arrangement pursuant to which it sells commercial real estate loans to the secondary market.  During the year ended December 31, 2007, sales of fixed-rate one- to four-family mortgage loans totaled $150,000, all of which were sold to FNMA.

The Bank generally retains the servicing rights in connection with loans it sells in the secondary market.  As of December 31, 2007, the Bank was servicing $563.4 million of loans for non-related institutions.  The Bank generally receives a loan servicing fee equal to 0.25% of the outstanding principal balance on all loans sold to FNMA, other than multifamily residential loans.  The loan servicing fees on multifamily residential loans sold to FNMA vary as they are derived based upon the difference between the actual origination rate and contractual pass-through rate of the loans sold at the time of sale.  At December 31, 2007, the Bank had recorded mortgage servicing rights ("MSR") of $2.5 million associated with the sale of one- to four-family and multifamily residential loans to FNMA.

The following table sets forth the Bank's loan originations (including loans held for sale), sales, purchases and principal repayments for the periods indicated:

 
For the Year Ended December 31,
 
2007
2006
2005
2004
2003
 
Dollars in Thousands
Gross loans:
         
At beginning of period
$2,702,625
$2,611,594
$2,502,268
$2,194,157
$2,169,745
Real estate loans originated:
         
Multifamily residential
391,882
388,102
312,026
774,832
917,904
Commercial real estate
124,262
133,099
203,841
187,655
126,185
One- to four-family (1)
27,425
19,070
41,143
36,363
28,259
Cooperative apartment units
-
210
465
1,048
1,839
Equity lines of credit
5,777
7,977
6,405
6,488
21,469
Construction and land acquisition
25,180
14,768
10,331
6,844
4,549
Total mortgage loans originated
574,526
563,226
574,211
1,013,230
1,100,205
Other loans originated
1,772
1,688
1,859
3,166
3,866
Total loans originated
576,298
564,914
576,070
1,016,396
1,104,071
Less:
         
Principal repayments
326,103
328,453
358,255
557,134
976,779
Loans sold (2)
77,628
145,430
108,489
151,151
102,880
Gross loans at end of period
2,875,192 
$2,702,625
$2,611,594
$2,502,268
$2,194,157

(1)      Includes Home Equity and Home Improvement Loans.
(2)      Includes multifamily residential loans sold to FNMA, fixed-rate one- to four-family mortgage loans and student loans.

Loan Maturity and Repricing.   The following table shows the earlier of the maturity or repricing period of the Bank's loan portfolio (including loans held for sale) at December 31, 2007.  ARMs are shown as being due in the period during which the interest rates are next scheduled to adjust. The table does not include prepayments or scheduled principal amortization.  Scheduled loan repricing and estimated prepayment and amortization information is presented on an aggregate basis in "Item 7A.  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure About Market Risk – Interest Sensitivity Gap."


F-59

 
 

 


 
At December 31, 2007
 
Real Estate Loans
     
 
Multifamily Residential
Commercial
Real Estate
One- to Four-
Family
Cooperative Apartment
FHA/VA
Insured
Construction and Land Acquisition
 
Other Loans
Total
Loans
 
(Dollars In Thousands)
Amount due to Mature or Reprice During the Year Ending:
             
December 31, 2008
$261,871
$53,593
$27,321
$4,003
-  
$49,387
 
$2,169
$398,344
December 31, 2009
281,082
60,786
18,184
416
-  
-  
 
-  
360,468
December 31, 2010
295,553
102,703
14,140
54
-  
-  
 
-  
412,450
December 31, 2011
383,612
183,776
12,311
100
-  
-  
 
-  
579,799
December 31, 2012
307,978
150,426
21,326
54
$220
-  
 
-  
480,004
 Sub-total
1,530,096
551,284
93,282
4,627
220
49,387
 
2,169
2,231,065
December 31, 2013  through
  December 31, 2017
352,897
131,528
22,650
973
805
-  
 
-  
508,853
December 31, 2018 and beyond
65,772
45,317
23,609
572
4
-  
 
-  
135,274
Total
$1,948,765
$728,129
$139,541
$6,172
$1,029
$49,387
 
$2,169
$2,875,192

The following table sets forth the outstanding principal balance in each loan category (including loans held for sale) at December 31, 2007 that is due to mature or reprice after December 31, 2008, and whether such loans have fixed or adjustable interest rates:

 
Due after December 31, 2008
 
Fixed
Adjustable
Total
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
Mortgage loans:
     
   Multifamily residential
$273,937
$1,412,957
$1,686,894
   Commercial real estate
115,841
558,695
674,536
   One- to four-family
47,394
64,826
112,220
   Cooperative apartment
1,699
470
2,169
   FHA/VA insured
1,029
-  
1,029
   Construction and land acquisition
-  
-  
-  
Other loans
-  
-  
-  
Total loans
$439,900
$2,036,948
$2,476,848

Multifamily Residential Lending and Commercial Real Estate Lending. The majority of the Bank's lending activities consist of originating adjustable-rate and fixed-rate multifamily residential (i.e., buildings possessing a minimum of five residential units) and commercial real estate loans. The properties securing these loans are generally located in the Bank's primary lending area. At December 31, 2007, the Bank had multifamily residential loans totaling $1.95 billion in its portfolio, comprising 67.8% of the gross loan portfolio. Of the multifamily residential loans, $1.86 billion, or 95.7%, were secured by apartment buildings and $84.5 million, or 4.3%, were secured by Underlying Cooperatives. The Bank also had $728.1 million of commercial real estate loans in its portfolio at December 31, 2007, representing 25.3% of its total loan portfolio.

The Bank originated multifamily residential and commercial real estate loans totaling $516.1 million during the year ended December 31, 2007 and $521.2 million during the year ended December 31, 2006. At December 31, 2007, the Bank had commitments accepted by borrowers to originate $96.3 million of multifamily residential and commercial real estate loans, compared to $53.8 million outstanding at December 31, 2006.

At December 31, 2007, multifamily residential and commercial real estate loans originated by the Bank were secured by three distinct property types: (1) fully residential apartment buildings; (2) "mixed-use" properties featuring a combination of residential and commercial units within the same building; and (3) fully commercial buildings. The underwriting procedures for each of these property types were substantially similar. Loans secured by fully residential apartment buildings were classified by the Bank as multifamily residential loans in all instances. Loans secured by fully commercial real estate were classified as commercial real estate loans in all instances. Loans secured by mixed-use properties were classified as either multifamily residential or commercial real estate loans based upon the percentage of the property's rental income received from its residential compared to its commercial tenants. If 50% or more of the rental income is received from residential tenants, the full balance of the loan is classified as multifamily residential. If less than 50% of the rental income is received from residential tenants, the full balance of the loan is classified as commercial real estate. At December 31, 2007, mixed use properties classified as multifamily residential or commercial real estate loans totaled $982.1 million.

Multifamily residential and commercial real estate loans in the Bank's portfolio generally range in amount from $250,000 to $4.0 million, and, at December 31, 2007, had an average loan size of approximately $1.3 million. Multifamily residential loans in this range are generally secured by buildings that possess between 5 and 100 apartments. As of December 31, 2007, the Bank had a total of $1.76 billion of multifamily residential loans in its portfolio secured by buildings with under 100 units, representing approximately 61% of its real estate loan portfolio. Principally as a result of NYC rent control and rent stabilization laws, which limit the amount of rent that may be charged to tenants, a portion of the associated rent rolls for buildings of this type indicate a rent range that would be considered affordable for low- to moderate-income households, regardless of the household income profiles of the associated census tracks.

Multifamily residential loans are generally viewed as exposing the Bank to a greater risk of loss than one- to four-family residential loans and typically involve higher loan principal amounts.  Repayment of multifamily residential loans is dependent, in significant part, on cash flow from the collateral property sufficient to satisfy operating expenses and debt service. Economic events and government regulations, such as rent control and rent stabilization laws, which are outside the control of the borrower or the Bank, could impair the future cash flow of such properties. As a result, rental income might not rise sufficiently over time to satisfy increases in the loan rate at repricing or in overhead expenses (e.g., utilities, taxes, and insurance).

The underwriting standards for new multifamily residential and commercial real estate loans generally require (1) a maximum loan-to-value ratio of 80% based upon an appraisal performed by an independent, state licensed appraiser, and (2) sufficient cash flow from the underlying property to adequately service the debt, represented by a minimum debt service ratio of 115%. The average loan-to-value and debt service ratios were 65% and 155%, respectively, on all multifamily and commercial real estate loans that were originated during the year ended December 31, 2007. The Bank additionally requires all multifamily and commercial real estate borrowers to represent that they are unaware of any environmental concerns related to the collateral. The Bank further considers the borrower's experience in owning or managing similar properties, the value of the collateral based upon the income approach, and the Bank's lending experience with the borrower. The Bank utilizes rent or lease income and the borrower's credit history and business experience when underwriting multifamily real estate applications.  When originating commercial real estate loans, the Bank utilizes rent or lease income and the borrower's credit history and business experience.  (See "Item 1. Business - Lending Activities - Loan Approval Authority and Underwriting" for a discussion of the Bank's underwriting procedures utilized in originating multifamily residential and commercial real estate loans).

It is the Bank's policy to require appropriate insurance protection, including title and hazard insurance, on all real estate mortgage loans at closing. Borrowers generally are required to advance funds for certain expenses such as real estate taxes, hazard insurance and flood insurance.
 
At December 31, 2007, the Bank had 375 multifamily residential and commercial real estate loans in portfolio with principal balances greater than $2.0 million, totaling $1.43 billion. These loans, while underwritten to the same standards as all other multifamily residential and commercial real estate loans, tend to expose the Bank to a higher degree of risk due to the potential impact of losses from any one loan relative to the size of the Bank's capital position.

The typical multifamily residential and commercial real estate ARM carries a final maturity of 10 or 12 years, and an amortization period not exceeding 30 years. These loans generally have an interest rate that adjusts once after the fifth or seventh year, indexed to the 5-year FHLBNY advance rate plus a spread typically approximating 225 basis points, but may not adjust below the initial interest rate of the loan. Prepayment fees are assessed throughout the majority of the life of the loans. The Bank also offers fixed-rate, self-amortizing, multifamily residential and commercial real estate loans with maturities of up to fifteen years.

Commercial real estate loans are generally viewed as exposing the Bank to a greater risk of loss than both one- to four-family and multifamily residential mortgage loans. Because payments on loans secured by commercial real estate are often dependent upon successful operation or management of the collateral properties, repayment of such loans are generally subject to a greater extent to prevailing conditions in the real estate market or the economy. Further, the collateral securing such loans may depreciate over time, be difficult to appraise, or fluctuate in value based upon the success of the business.  In order to partially compensate for this increased risk, the Bank requires, in addition to the security interest in the commercial real estate, a security interest in the personal property associated with the collateral and standby assignments of rents and leases from the borrower.

The Bank's three largest multifamily residential loans at December 31, 2007 were a $23.8 million loan originated in March 2004 secured by an eight-story, mixed-use building located in Flushing, New York, containing 137 residential apartments and 4 commercial units; a $15.0 million loan originated in December 2003 secured by a nine story building in Manhattan, New York containing 159 loft cooperative apartments; and a  $13.6 million loan originated in May 2007 secured by four fully residential buildings located in Brooklyn, New York containing a total of 242 apartments.

The Bank's three largest commercial real estate loans at December 31, 2007 were a $15.4 million loan originated in May 2005 secured by a three-story building located in Manhattan, New York containing 10 retail stores; a $13.5 million loan originated in February 2007 secured by a professional office building located in White Plains, New York; and an $11.8 million loan originated in July 2004 secured by a five-story mixed-use building located in Manhattan, New York containing 30 residential apartments and 10 commercial units.

Small Mixed-Use Lending (Small Investment Property Loans).  Beginning in 2003, the Bank began originating small investment property loans.  Small investment property loans are typically sourced through brokers.  Generally, small investment properties include: owner and non-owner occupied one- to four-family residential, multifamily, or mixed-use properties under $1.0 million.  One important underwriting distinction between small investment property loans and other loans in the Bank’s commercial real estate portfolio is that the appraised value, in the majority of cases, is based upon a ‘comparable sales’ methodology rather than an income approach methodology.  Another important distinction is that the loans are required to be personally guaranteed by the borrowers.  The appraisal methodology chosen can vary depending upon the attributes of the underlying collateral and/or the availability of comparable sales data.  In cases where the comparable sales method of appraisal is used, loans can have debt service coverage ratios below 1%.  In such cases, the Bank looks to the borrower’s financial capacity to carry the loan.  Small investment property loans typically carry higher rates of interest in order to compensate the Bank for the assumed higher risk of default. Borrowers may be owner/occupants of the subject properties; borrowers are always required to provide the Bank with personal guarantees.  Because these loans are required to be personally guaranteed, the Bank relies heavily on both the financial and credit information of borrowers in its’ underwriting.  Small commercial real estate loans can be underwritten to a maximum loan-to-value ratio of 80%.  In the minority of cases where the income approach to appraised value is used, loans can be underwritten to a minimum debt service ratio of 110%.  At December 31, 2007, the Bank held in portfolio $72.6 million of loans classified as small investment property loans, or about 2% of the gross loan portfolio, with a weighted average FICO score of 709 and a weighted average loan-to-value ratio of 64%.

One- to Four-Family Residential and Cooperative Apartment Lending.   The Bank offers residential first and second mortgage loans secured primarily by owner-occupied, one- to four-family residences, including condominium and cooperative apartments.  The majority of one- to four-family residential loans in the Bank's loan portfolio were obtained through the Bank's acquisitions of Financial Federal Savings Bank in 1999 and Pioneer Savings Bank, F.S.B. in 1996.  The Bank originated $16.6 million of one- to four-family mortgages during the year ended December 31, 2007, including home equity and home improvement loans.  At December 31, 2007, $145.7 million, or 5.1%, of the Bank's loans consisted of one- to four-family residential and cooperative apartment loans.  The Bank is a participating seller/servicer with FNMA and generally underwrites its one- to four-family residential mortgage loans to conform with its standards.

Although the collateral securing cooperative apartment loans is composed of shares in a cooperative corporation (i.e., a corporation whose primary asset is the underlying building) and a proprietary lease in the borrower's apartment, cooperative apartment loans are treated as one- to four-family loans.  The Bank's portfolio of cooperative apartment loans was $6.2 million, or 0.2% of total loans, as of December 31, 2007.  The Bank did not originate any cooperative apartment loans during the year ended December 31, 2007.

For all one- to four-family loans originated by the Bank, upon receipt of a completed loan application from a prospective borrower: (1) a credit report is reviewed; (2) income, assets, indebtedness and certain other information are verified by an independent credit agency; (3) if necessary, additional financial information is required of the borrower; and (4) an appraisal of the real estate intended to secure the proposed loan is obtained from an independent appraiser approved by the Board of Directors.

The Bank generally sells its newly originated conforming fixed-rate one- to four-family mortgage loans with maturities in excess of 15 years in the secondary market to FNMA, and its non-conforming fixed-rate one- to four-family mortgage loans with maturities in excess of 15 years to various private sector secondary market purchasers.  With few exceptions, the Bank retains the servicing rights on all such loans sold.  During the year ended December 31, 2007, the Bank sold one- to four-family mortgage loans totaling $150,000 to non-affiliates.  As of December 31, 2007, the Bank's portfolio of one- to four-family fixed-rate mortgage loans serviced for others totaled $21.5 million.

Home Equity and Home Improvement Loans.  Home equity loans and home improvement loans, the majority of which are included in one- to four-family loans, are originated to a maximum of $250,000.  At the time of origination, the combined balance of the first mortgage and home equity or home improvement loan may not exceed the following limitations: (1) 89% of the appraised value of the collateral property at origination of the home equity or home improvement loan in the event that the Bank holds the first mortgage on the collateral property; or (2) 85% of the appraised value of the collateral property at origination of the home equity or home improvement loan in the event that the Bank does not hold the first mortgage on the collateral property.  On home equity and home improvement loans, the borrower pays an initial interest rate that may be as low as 200 basis points below the prime rate of interest in effect at origination.  After six months, the interest rate adjusts and ranges from the prime interest rate in effect at the time to 100 basis points above the prime interest rate in effect at the time.  The combined outstanding balance of the Bank's home equity and home improvement loans was $29.0 million at December 31, 2007.

Equity credit lines are available on multifamily residential and commercial real estate loans.  These loans are underwritten in the same manner as first mortgage loans on these properties, except that the combined loan-to-value ratio of the first mortgage and the equity line may not exceed 80%.  On multifamily residential and commercial real estate equity lines of credit, the borrower pays an interest rate generally ranging from 100 to 200 basis points above the prime rate, based upon the loan-to-value ratio of the combined first mortgage and equity credit at the time of origination of the equity line of credit.  The outstanding balance of these equity loans (which are included in the $29.0 million of total outstanding home equity and home improvement loans) was $11.9 million at December 31, 2007, on outstanding total lines of $38.4 million.

Construction Lending.  The Bank participates in various real estate construction loans underwritten by either qualified local financial institutions or a prominant national construction lender.  All of these construction projects are located in Brooklyn or Queens, New York, and in most instances, involve the conversion of desirable real estate from commercial to residential use.  Although it has assumed up to 90% participation on some construction loan commitments, the Bank generally does not act as primary underwriting agent for any of these loans.  The Bank does, however, carefully review the underwriting of these construction loans, and regularly inspects the construction progress and engineering reports prior to advancing funds.  During the year ended December 31, 2007, the Bank funded $25.2 million of new construction loans.  At December 31, 2007, the Bank had $31.0 million in unfunded construction loan commitments.

Loan Approval Authority and Underwriting.   The Board of Directors of the Bank establishes lending authorities for individual officers related to the various types of loan products offered by the Bank.  In addition, the Bank maintains a Loan Operating Committee entrusted with loan approval authority.  The Loan Operating Committee is comprised of the Chief Executive Officer, President, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Investment Officer, Chief Lending Officer and a credit officer overseeing the underwriting function for the type of loan under consideration.  The Loan Operating Committee has authority to approve loan originations in amounts up to $3.0 million.  Both the Loan Operating Committee and the Bank's Board of Directors must approve all loan originations exceeding $3.0 million.  All loans approved by the Loan Operating Committee are presented to the Bank's Board of Directors for its review.

Regulatory restrictions imposed on the Bank's lending activities limit the amount of credit that may be extended to any one borrower to 15% of unimpaired capital and unimpaired surplus. A single borrower may exceed the initial 15% limit, up to a final limit of 25%, if he or she secures the full amount of the outstanding loan balance in excess of the initial 15% limit with collateral in the form of readily marketable securities that have a reliable and continuously available price quotation.  (See "Item 1.  Business - Regulation - Regulation of Federal Savings Associations - Loans to One Borrower'').

 
Asset Quality
 
At both December 31, 2007 and December 31, 2006, the Company had neither whole loans nor collateral underlying MBS that would be considered subprime loans, i.e., mortgage loans advanced to borrowers who do not qualify for market interest rates because of problems with their income or credit history.  (See "Item I – Business – Lending Activities" for a further discussion of the Bank's underwriting standards).

Non-performing loans (i.e., delinquent loans for which interest accruals have ceased in accordance with the Bank's policy discussed below - typically loans 90 days or more past due) totaled $2.9 million and $3.6 million at December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively.  The decrease in non-performing loans during the year resulted primarily from the removal of four loans from non-performing status, totaling $2.0 million, that was partially offset by the addition of four loans totaling $1.3 million during the period.

Accrual of interest is discontinued on loans identified as impaired (as defined below) and past due ninety days. Any interest accrued to income in the year that interest accruals are discontinued is reversed. Payments on nonaccrual loans are generally applied to principal.  Loans are returned to accrual status once the doubt concerning collectibility has been removed and the borrower has demonstrated performance in accordance with the loan terms and conditions for a period of at least twelve consecutive months.
 
The Bank had a total of 7 real estate and consumer loans, totaling $1.9 million, delinquent 60-89 days at December 31, 2007, compared to a total of 16 such delinquent loans, totaling $258,000, at December 31, 2006.   The majority of the dollar amount of both non-performing loans and loans delinquent 60-89 days was comprised of real estate loans.  The majority of the count of both non-performing loans and loans delinquent 60-89 days was composed of consumer loans (primarily depositor loans).  The growth in the dollar amount delinquent 60-89 days from December 31, 2006 to December 31, 2007 resulted primarily from a net increase of $1.4 million of 60 to 89 day delinquent real estate loans during the period.  The 60-89 day delinquency levels fluctuate monthly, and are generally considered a less accurate indicator of credit quality trends than non-performing loans.
 
Under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP"), the Bank is required to account for certain loan modifications or restructurings as ''troubled-debt restructurings.'' In general, the modification or restructuring of a loan constitutes a troubled-debt restructuring if the Bank, for economic or legal reasons related to the borrower's financial difficulties, grants a concession to the borrower that it would not otherwise consider.  Current OTS regulations require that troubled-debt restructurings remain classified as such until either the loan is repaid or returns to its original terms.  The Bank had no loans classified as troubled-debt restructurings at December 31, 2007 or 2006.
 
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") 114, "Accounting By Creditors for Impairment of a Loan," as amended by SFAS 118, "Accounting by Creditors for Impairment of a Loan - Income Recognition and Disclosures an amendment of FASB Statement No. 114" ("Amended SFAS 114"), provides guidelines for determining and measuring impairment in loans. For each loan that the Bank determines to be impaired, (i.e., possessing underlying collateral of an estimated fair value insufficient to satisfy the existing debt), impairment is measured by the amount that the carrying balance of the loan, including all accrued interest, exceeds the estimate of the fair value of the collateral.  A specific reserve is established on all impaired loans to the extent of impairment and comprises a portion of the allowance for loan losses.  A loan is considered impaired when it is probable that all contractual amounts due will not be collected in accordance with the terms of the loan. A loan is not deemed to be impaired, even during a period of delayed payment by the borrower, if the Bank ultimately expects to collect all amounts due, including interest accrued at the contractual rate. Generally, the Bank considers non-performing and troubled-debt restructured multifamily residential and commercial real estate loans, along with non-performing one- to four-family loans exceeding $417,000, to be impaired. Non-performing one-to four-family loans of $417,000 or less, as well as all consumer loans, are considered homogeneous loan pools and are not required to be evaluated individually for impairment.  The recorded investment in loans deemed impaired was approximately $2.8 million, consisting of six loans, at December 31, 2007, compared to $3.5 million, consisting of six loans, at December 31, 2006, and $84,000, consisting of one loan, at December 31, 2005.  The average total balance of impaired loans was approximately $2.7 million during the year ended December 31, 2007, $1.9 million during the year ended December 31, 2006, and $2.3 million during the year ended December 31, 2005.  During the year ended December 31, 2007, three impaired loans totaling $2.0 million were removed from impaired status while three loans totaling $1.2 million were added to impaired status.  Since much of the activity occurred during the final six months of 2007, while the period-end balance of impaired loans declined from December 31, 2006 to December 31, 2007, the average balance was higher during the year ended December 31, 2007, as $3.5 million of impaired loans added during the year ended December 31, 2006 had a greater impact on the average balance of impaired loans during 2007 than 2006.

Since the six impaired loans totaling $3.5 million added to impaired status during the year ended December 31, 2006 were added throughout the year, their impact upon the average balance of impaired loans was significantly lower than the change in the aggregate balance of impaired loans from December 31, 2005 to December 31, 2006. Similarly, during the year ended December 31, 2005, the majority of impaired loans entered impaired status early in the year but were repaid prior to December 31st.  As a result, although there was an increase in the balance of impaired loans from December 31, 2005 to December 31, 2006, the average balance of impaired loans was higher during the year ended December 31, 2005 compared to the year ended December 31, 2006.

At December 31, 2007 and 2006, reserves totaling $348,000 and $351,000, respectively, were allocated within the allowance for loan losses for impaired loans.  At December 31, 2007, non-performing loans exceeded impaired loans by $42,000, due to $42,000 of one- to four-family and consumer loans, which, while on non-performing status, were not deemed impaired since they had individual outstanding balances of $417,000 or less.

Other Real Estate Owned (“OREO”).  Property acquired by the Bank as a result of a foreclosure on a mortgage loan or deed in lieu of foreclosure is classified as OREO and recorded at the lower of the recorded investment in the related loan or the fair value of the property on the date of acquisition, with any resulting write down charged to the allowance for loan losses and any disposition expenses charged to the valuation allowance for possible losses on OREO. The Bank obtains a current appraisal on OREO property as soon as practicable after it takes possession and will generally reassess the value of OREO at least annually thereafter.  There were no OREO properties as of December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005.

The following table sets forth information regarding non-performing loans, OREO, and troubled-debt restructurings at the dates indicated:

 
At December 31,
 
2007
2006
2005
2004
2003
Non-performing loans
(Dollars in Thousands)
   One- to four-family
$11
$60
$317
$475
$346
   Multifamily residential
2,236
1,655
384
830
   Commercial real estate
577
1,859
     
   Cooperative apartment
27
26
229
   Other
5
6
28
154
179
Total non-performing loans
2,856
3,606
958
1,459
525
OREO
Total non-performing assets
2,856
3,606
958
1,459
525
Troubled-debt restructurings
Total non-performing assets and
   troubled-debt restructurings
$2,856
 
$3,606
 
$958
 
$1,459
 
$525
           
Impaired loans
$2,814
$3,514
$384
$830
$- 
           
Ratios:
         
   Total non-performing loans to total loans
0.10%
0.13%
0.04%
0.06%
0.02%
   Total non-performing loans and troubled-debt
     restructurings to total loans
 
0.10   
 
0.13   
 
0.04   
 
0.06   
 
0.02   
   Total non-performing assets to total assets
0.08   
0.11   
0.03   
0.04   
0.02   
   Total non-performing assets and troubled-
     debt restructurings to total assets
 
0.08   
 
0.11   
 
0.03   
 
0.04   
 
0.02   

Monitoring and Collection of Delinquent Loans.  Management of the Bank reviews delinquent loans on a monthly basis and reports to its Board of Directors regarding the status of all non-performing and otherwise delinquent loans in the Bank's portfolio.

The Bank's loan servicing policies and procedures require that an automated late notice be sent to a delinquent borrower as soon as possible after a payment is ten days late in the case of a multifamily residential or commercial real estate loan, or fifteen days late in connection with a one- to four-family or consumer loan.  A second letter is sent to the borrower if payment has not been received within 30 days of the due date.  Thereafter, periodic letters are mailed and phone calls are placed to the borrower until payment is received.  When contact is made with the borrower at any time prior to foreclosure, the Bank will attempt to obtain the full payment due or negotiate a repayment schedule with the borrower to avoid foreclosure.

Generally, the Bank initiates foreclosure proceedings when a loan is 90 days past due.  As soon as practicable after initiating foreclosure proceedings, the Bank procures current appraisal information in order to prepare an estimate of the fair value of the underlying collateral.  If a foreclosure action is instituted and the loan is not brought current, paid in full, or refinanced before the foreclosure action is completed, the property securing the loan is generally sold.  It is the Bank's general policy to dispose of OREO properties as quickly and prudently as possible in consideration of market conditions, the physical condition of the property and any other mitigating circumstances.

Classified Assets.  OTS regulations and Bank policy require that loans and other assets possessing certain negative characteristics be classified as ''Substandard,'' ''Doubtful'' or ''Loss'' assets. An asset is considered ''Substandard'' if it is inadequately protected by the current net worth and paying capacity of the obligor or the collateral pledged, if any. ''Substandard'' assets have a well-defined weakness or weaknesses and are characterized by the distinct possibility that the Bank will sustain ''some loss'' if deficiencies are not corrected. Assets classified as ''Doubtful'' have all of the weaknesses inherent in those classified ''Substandard'' with the added characteristic that the weaknesses present make ''collection or liquidation in full,'' on the basis of current existing facts, conditions, and values, ''highly questionable and improbable.'' Assets classified as ''Loss'' are those considered ''uncollectible'' and of such little value that their continuance as assets without the establishment of a specific loss reserve is not warranted.  Assets which do not expose the Bank to risk sufficient to warrant classification in one of the aforementioned categories, but possess potential weaknesses that deserve management's attention, are designated ''Special Mention.''

The Bank's Loan Loss Reserve Committee, subject to approval of the Bank's Board of Directors, establishes policies relating to the internal classification of loans.  The Bank believes that its classification policies are consistent with regulatory requirements. All non-performing and impaired loans, troubled-debt restructurings and OREO are considered classified assets. In addition, the Bank maintains a "watch list," comprised of loans that, while performing, are characterized by weaknesses requiring special attention from management and are considered to be potential problem loans.  This list includes loans that have either been classified as Substandard or Special Mention in previous years but have remained current for at least 12 months or loans that have experienced irregular payment histories.

The Loan Loss Reserve Committee reviews all loans in the Bank's portfolio quarterly, with particular emphasis on problem loans, in order to determine whether any loans require reclassification in accordance with applicable regulatory guidelines.  The Loan Loss Reserve Committee reports its conclusions to the Bank's Board of Directors on a quarterly basis.

During the year ended December 31, 2007 the Bank's classified assets continued at historically low levels, despite a slowdown in what had been a prolonged period of favorable real estate market conditions in the NYC metropolitan area.  The watch list contained 7 loans totaling $1.8 million at December 31, 2007, compared to 5 loans totaling $773,000 at December 31, 2006.  The increase resulted from the addition of a $1.0 million loan to the watch list during 2007.  At both December 31, 2007 and 2006, the Bank had no assets classified as either Doubtful or Loss.  At December 31, 2007, the Bank had 31 loans totaling $1.2 million designated Special Mention, compared to 47 loans totaling $783,000 at December 31, 2006, reflecting the increase in watch list loan balance during the year ended December 31, 2007.  At both December 31, 2007 and 2006, the Bank had $3.7 million of assets classified as Substandard.

The following table sets forth the Bank's aggregate carrying value of the assets classified as either Substandard or Special Mention at December 31, 2007:

 
Special Mention
 
Substandard
 
Number
Amount
 
Number
Amount
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
Mortgage Loans:
         
   Multifamily residential
2
$1,044
 
4
$1,916
   One- to four-family
1
58
 
   Cooperative apartment
3
102
 
1
38
   Commercial real estate
-
 
2
1,715
Total Mortgage Loans
6
1,204
 
7
$3,669
Other loans
25
36
 
6
5
OREO
 
-
Total
31
$1,240
 
13
$3,674


F-59

 
 

 


Allowance for Loan Losses

GAAP requires the Bank to maintain an appropriate allowance for loan losses.  The Bank believes that its allowance for loan losses was determined in accordance with such requirements.  The Loan Loss Reserve Committee is charged with, among other functions, responsibility for monitoring the appropriateness of the loan loss reserve. The Loan Loss Reserve Committee's findings, along with recommendations for changes to loan loss reserve provisions, if any, are reported directly to the Bank's senior management and Board of Directors.  The following table sets forth activity in the Bank's allowance for loan losses at or for the dates indicated:

 
At or for the Year Ended December 31,
 
2007
2006
2005
2004
2003
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
Total loans outstanding at end of period (1)
$2,877,025
$2,703,673
$2,612,095
$2,501,805
$2,192,640
Average total loans outstanding (1)
$2,777,220
$2,651,601
$2,535,574
$2,397,187
$2,206,003
Allowance for loan losses:
         
Balance at beginning of period
$15,514 
$15,785 
$15,543 
$15,018 
$15,458 
Provision for loan losses
240 
240 
340 
280 
288 
Charge-offs
         
   Multifamily residential
-  
-  
-  
-  
-  
   Commercial real estate
-  
-  
-  
-  
-  
   One- to four-family
-  
(2)
-  
(3)
(2)
   FHA/VA insured
-  
-  
-  
-  
-  
   Cooperative apartment
-  
-  
-  
-  
(1)
   Other
(28)
(48)
(76)
(155)
(60)
Total charge-offs
(28)
(50)
(76)
(158)
(63)
Recoveries
19 
23 
31 
25 
34 
Reserve for loan commitments
   transferred (to) from other liabilities
 
(358)
 
(484)
 
(53) 
 
378 
 
(699)
Balance at end of period
$15,387 
$15,514 
$15,785 
$15,543 
$15,018 
Allowance for loan losses to
   total loans at end of period
 
0.53%
 
0.57%
 
0.60%
 
0.62%
 
0.68%
Allowance for loan losses to total
   non-performing loans at end of period
 
538.76   
 
430.23   
 
1,647.70   
 
1,065.32   
 
2,860.57   
Allowance for loan losses to total non-performing
  loans and troubled-debt restructurings at end of period
 
538.76   
 
430.23   
 
1,647.70   
 
1,065.32   
 
2,860.57   
Ratio of net charge-offs to average loans outstanding
   during the period
 
-    
 
-    
 
-    
 
-    
 
-    
 
(1)  
Total loans represent gross loans, net of deferred loan fees and discounts.
 

Based upon its evaluation of the loan portfolio, management believes that the Bank maintained its allowance for loan losses at a level appropriate to absorb losses inherent within the Bank's loan portfolio as of the balance sheet dates.  Factors considered in determining the appropriateness of the allowance for loan losses include the Bank's past loan loss experience, known and inherent risks in the portfolio, existing adverse situations which may affect a borrower's ability to repay, estimated value of underlying collateral and current economic conditions in the Bank's lending area. Although management uses available information to estimate losses on loans, future additions to, or reductions in, the allowance may be necessary based on changes in economic conditions beyond management's control. In addition, various regulatory agencies, as an integral part of their examination processes, periodically review the Bank's allowance for loan losses. Such agencies may require the Bank to recognize additions to, or reductions in, the allowance based upon judgments different from those of management.

The allowance for loan losses was $15.4 million at December 31, 2007 compared to $15.5 million at December 31, 2006. During the year ended December 31, 2007, the Bank recorded a provision of $240,000 to the allowance for loan losses to provide for growth in its loan portfolio balances.   In addition during the year ended December 31, 2007, the Bank re-designated $358,000 of its allowance for loan losses into other liabilities related to reserves on loan origination commitments.  The Bank also recorded net charge-offs of $9,000 during the year ended December 31, 2007, all of which related to consumer loans.

The following table sets forth the Bank's allowance for loan losses allocated by loan category and the percent of loans in each category to total loans at the dates indicated:

F-59

 
 

 


 
At December 31,
 
2007
2006
2005
2004
2003
 
 
 
 
 
Allocated
Amount
Percent
of Loans
in Each Category to Total Loans(1)
 
 
 
 
Allocated
Amount
Percent
of Loans
in Each Category to Total Loans(1)
 
 
 
 
Allocated
Amount
Percent
of Loans
in Each Category to Total Loans(1)
 
 
 
 
Allocated
Amount
Percent
of Loans
in Each Category to Total Loans(1)
 
 
 
 
Allocated
Amount
Percent
of Loans
in Each Category to Total Loans(1)
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
Impaired loans
$348
0.10%
$351
0.13%
$38
0.01%
$83
0.04%
$- 
-    
Multifamily residential
9,381
67.72   
8,948
68.62   
10,137
71.75   
11,753
76.72   
11,391
79.24%
Commercial real estate
4,449
25.31   
5,208
24.61   
4,759
22.10   
3,161
16.98   
2,742
14.15   
One-to four- family
347
4.86   
496
5.43   
496
5.20   
436
5.05   
686
5.67   
Cooperative apartment
33
0.21   
45
0.27   
59
0.39   
65
0.47   
124
0.63   
Construction and
  land acquisition
764
1.72   
392
0.86   
196
0.46   
0.62   
0.13   
Other
65
0.08   
74
0.08   
100
0.09   
45
0.12   
75
0.18   
Total
$15,387
100.00%
$15,514
100.00%
$15,785
100.00%
$15,543
100.00%
$15,018
100.00%

 
(1)  
Total loans represent gross loans less FHA and VA guaranteed loans.

Investment Activities

Investment Strategies of the Holding Company.  At December 31, 2007, the Holding Company's principal asset was its $321.1 million investment in the Bank's common stock.  Other Holding Company investments are intended primarily to provide future liquidity which may be utilized for general business activities.  These may include, but are not limited to: (1) purchases of the Holding Company's common stock into treasury; (2) repayment of principal and interest on the Holding Company's $25.0 million subordinated note obligation and $72.2 million trust preferred securities borrowing; (3) subject to applicable dividend restriction limitations, the payment of dividends on the Holding Company's common stock; and/or (4) investments in the equity securities of other financial institutions and other investments not permitted to the Bank.  The Holding Company's investment policy calls for investments in relatively short-term, liquid securities similar to those permitted by the securities investment policy of the Bank.  The Holding Company cannot assure that it will engage in any of these activities in the future.

Investment Policy of the Bank.   The investment policy of the Bank, which is adopted by its Board of Directors, is designed to help achieve the Bank's overall asset/liability management objectives and to comply with applicable OTS regulations.  Generally, when selecting new investments for the Bank's portfolio, the policy calls for management to emphasize principal preservation, liquidity, diversification, short maturities and/or repricing terms, and a favorable return on investment. The policy permits investments in various types of liquid assets, including obligations of the U.S. Treasury and federal agencies, investment grade corporate debt, various types of MBS, commercial paper, certificates of deposit ("CDs") and overnight federal funds sold to financial institutions.  The Bank's Board of Directors periodically approves all financial institutions that buy federal funds from the Bank.

Investment strategies are implemented by the Asset and Liability Management Committee ("ALCO"), which is comprised of the Chief Financial Officer, Chief Investment Officer, Treasurer and other financial officers.  The strategies take into account the overall composition of the Bank's balance sheet, including loans and deposits, and are intended to protect and enhance the Bank's earnings and market value.  The strategies are reviewed monthly by the ALCO and reported regularly to the Board of Directors.

The Holding Company or the Bank may, with respective Board approval, engage in hedging transactions utilizing derivative instruments.  During the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006, neither the Holding Company nor the Bank held any derivative instruments or embedded derivative instruments that required bifurcation.

MBS.  MBS provide the portfolio with investments offering desirable repricing, cash flow and credit quality characteristics. MBS yield less than the loans that underlie the securities as a result of the cost of payment guarantees and credit enhancements which reduce credit risk to the investor.  Although MBS guaranteed by federally sponsored agencies carry a reduced credit risk compared to whole loans, such securities remain subject to the risk that fluctuating interest rates, along with other factors such as the geographic distribution of the underlying mortgage loans, may alter the prepayment rate of such loans and thus affect both the prepayment speed and value of such securities.  MBS, however, are more liquid than individual mortgage loans and may readily be used to collateralize borrowings.  The MBS portfolio also provides the Holding Company and the Bank with important interest rate risk management features, as the entire portfolio provides monthly cash flow for re-investment at current market interest rates.  At December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively, all MBS owned by the Company possessed the highest possible investment credit rating.

The Company's consolidated investment in MBS totaled $162.8 million, or 4.6% of total assets, at December 31, 2007, the majority of which was owned by the Bank.  At December 31, 2007, the largest component of the portfolio was $117.2 million in Collateralized Mortgage Obligations ("CMOs") and Real Estate Mortgage Investment Conduits ("REMICs") owned by the Bank.  All of the CMOs and REMICs were either U.S agency guaranteed obligations or issued by highly rated private financial institutions.  All of the non-agency guaranteed obligations were rated in the highest ratings category by at least one nationally recognized rating agency at the time of purchase.  None of the CMOs and REMICs had stripped principal and interest components and all occupied priority tranches within their respective issues.  As of December 31, 2007, the fair value of CMOs and REMICs was approximately $2.2 million below their cost basis.

The remaining MBS portfolio was comprised of pass-through securities guaranteed by the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation ("FHLMC"), Government National Mortgage Agency ("GNMA") or FNMA.  These securities approximated 23.1% of the total MBS portfolio at December 31, 2007.  This portion of the portfolio was comprised of $36.4 million of FHLMC or FNMA securities that are fixed for a period of five or seven years and then reset annually thereafter,  $6.4 million of seasoned fixed-rate FNMA pass-through securities with an average estimated duration of less than 3.0 years, $1.3 million of GNMA ARM pass-through securities with a weighted average term to next rate adjustment of less than one year, and a $1.4 million FNMA 18-year balloon MBS.

GAAP requires that investments in equity securities have readily determinable fair values and investments in debt securities be classified in one of the following three categories and accounted for accordingly:  trading securities, securities available for sale or securities held to maturity.  Neither the Holding Company nor the Bank owned any securities classified as trading securities during the twelve months ended December 31, 2007, nor do they presently anticipate establishing a trading portfolio.  Unrealized gains and losses on available for sale securities are reported as a separate component of stockholders' equity referred to as accumulated other comprehensive income, net of deferred taxes.  At December 31, 2007, the Holding Company and the Bank owned, on a combined basis, $196.9 million of securities classified as available for sale, which represented 5.6% of total assets. Based upon the size of the available for sale portfolio, future variations in the market value of the available for sale portfolio could result in fluctuations in the Company's consolidated stockholders' equity.

The Company typically classifies MBS as available for sale, in recognition of the greater prepayment uncertainty associated with these securities, and carries them at fair market value.  The amortized cost of MBS available for sale (excluding CMOs and REMICs) was $420,000 above their fair value at December 31, 2007.

The following table sets forth activity in the MBS portfolio for the periods indicated:

 
For the Year Ended December 31,
 
2007
2006
2005
 
Dollars in Thousands
Amortized cost at beginning of period
$160,096
$199,931 
$526,074 
(Sales) Purchases, net
37,992
-  
(235,791)
Principal repayments
(33,329)
(39,420)
(89,072)
Premium amortization, net
(256)
(415)
(1,280)
Amortized cost at end of period
$164,503
$160,096 
$199,931 

Corporate Debt Obligations.  Both the Holding Company and the Bank invest in short-term investment-grade debt obligations of various corporations. Corporate debt obligations generally carry both a higher rate of return and a higher degree of credit risk than U.S. Treasury and agency securities with comparable maturities. In addition, corporate securities are generally less liquid than comparable U.S. Treasury and agency securities. In recognition of the additional risks associated with these securities, the Bank's investment policy limits new investments in corporate debt obligations to companies rated single ''A'' or better by one of the nationally recognized rating agencies, and limits investments in any one corporate entity to the lesser of 1% of total assets or 15% of the Bank's equity. At December 31, 2007, the Company's consolidated portfolio of corporate debt obligations totaled $17.0 million.  All of these investments were held by the Bank.

Municipal Agencies. At December 31, 2007, the Bank had an investment in municipal agency obligations totaling $10.1 million,  all of which were acquired during 2007.  At December 31, 2007, the market value of these securities exceeded their amortized cost basis, and they possessed a weighted average tax-adjusted yield approximating 4.1% and a weighted average duration approximating 7.0 years.

Equity Investments.  The Company's consolidated investment in equity securities totaled $7.1 million at December 31, 2007, and was comprised primarily of various equity mutual fund investments.

The following table sets forth the amortized cost and fair value of the total portfolio of investment securities and MBS at the dates indicated:

 
At December 31,
 
2007
2006
2005
 
Amortized Cost
 
Fair Value
Amortized Cost
 
Fair Value
Amortized Cost
 
Fair Value
MBS:
Dollars in Thousands
CMOs and REMICs
$119,386 
$117,228
$148,461 
$143,157
$185,510 
$179,495
FHLMC
31,174 
31,611
-   
-  
-   
-  
FNMA
12,677 
12,646
9,862 
9,488
12,077 
11,599
GNMA
1,266 
1,279
1,773 
1,792
2,344 
2,359
Total MBS
164,503 
162,764
160,096 
154,437
199,931 
193,453
Investment securities:
           
U.S. Treasury and agency
-  
-  
17,067 
17,060
Municipal agencies
9,951 
10,028
-  
-  
-  
Other
24,830 
24,147
29,738 
29,783
27,322 
28,228
Total investment securities
34,781 
34,175
29,738 
29,783
44,389 
45,288
Net unrealized loss (1)
(2,345)
(5,614)
(5,581)
Total securities, net
$196,939 
$196,939
$184,220 
$184,220
$238,739 
$238,741
 
(1)  
The net unrealized loss relates to available for sale securities in accordance with SFAS 115, "Accounting for Investments in Debt and Equity Securities." ("SFAS 115").  The net unrealized loss is presented in order to reconcile the amortized cost of the available for sale securities portfolio to the recorded value reflected in the Company's Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition.

The following table sets forth the amortized cost and fair value of the total portfolio of investment securities and MBS, by accounting classification and type of security, at the dates indicated:

 
At December 31,
 
2007
2006
2005
 
Amortized Cost
 
Fair Value
Amortized Cost
 
Fair Value
Amortized Cost
 
Fair Value
Held-to-Maturity:
Dollars in Thousands
MBS (1)
$-   
$-  
$-   
$-  
$-   
$-  
Investment securities (2)
80 
80
235 
235
455 
456
Total Held-to-Maturity
$80 
$80
$235 
$235
$455 
$456
             
Available-for-Sale:
           
MBS:
           
Pass-through securities
$45,117 
$45,536
$11,635
$11,280
$14,421 
$13,958
CMOs and REMICs
119,386 
117,228
148,461 
143,157
185,510 
179,495
Total MBS available-for-sale
164,503 
162,764
160,096 
154,437
199,931 
193,453
Investment securities (2)
34,701 
34,095
29,503 
29,548
43,934 
44,832
Net unrealized loss (3)
(2,345)
(5,614)
(5,581)
Total Available-for-Sale
$196,859 
$196,859
$183,985 
$183,985
$238,284 
$238,285
Total securities, net
$196,939 
$196,939
$184,220 
$184,220
$238,739 
$238,741
(1)      Includes both pass-through securities and investments in CMOs and REMICs.
 
(2)      Includes corporate debt obligations.
 
(3)
The net unrealized loss relates to available for sale securities in accordance with SFAS 115. The net unrealized loss is presented in order to reconcile the amortized cost of the available for sale securities portfolio to the recorded value reflected in the Company's Consolidated Statements of Condition.

The held to maturity security at December 31, 2007 is scheduled to mature during the year ending December 31, 2008 and has a weighted average yield of 7.50%.

The following table sets forth certain information regarding the amortized cost, fair value and weighted average yield of available for sale investment securities and MBS (exclusive of equity investments) at December 31, 2007, by remaining period to contractual maturity. With respect to MBS, the entire carrying amount of each security at December 31, 2007 is reflected in the maturity period that includes the final security payment date and, accordingly, no effect has been given to periodic repayments or possible prepayments.  The investment policies of both the Holding Company and the Bank call for the purchase of only priority tranches when investing in MBS.  As a result, the weighted average duration of the Company's MBS approximated 2.5 years as of December 31, 2007 when giving consideration to anticipated repayments or possible prepayments, which is far less than their calculated average maturity in the table below.  Other than obligations of federal agencies and GSEs, neither the Holding Company nor the Bank had a combined investment in securities issued by any one entity in excess of the lesser of 1% of total assets or 15% of the Bank's equity at December 31, 2007.

 
 
Amortized Cost
 
 
Fair Value
Weighted
Average Yield
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
MBS:
     
Due within 1 year
-  
-    
Due after 1 year but within 5 years
-  
-    
Due after 5 years but within 10 years
$71,959
$70,666
3.92%
Due after ten years
92,544
92,098
4.74    
Total
164,503
162,764
4.38    
       
Municipal agency:
     
Due within 1 year
-   
-      
Due after 1 year but within 5 years
348 
351 
3.79    
Due after 5 years but within 10 years
9,603 
9,677 
3.73    
Due after ten years
-   
-      
Total
9,951 
10,028 
 3.73    
       
Corporate and other:
     
Due within 1 year
5,218
5,190
5.81   
Due after 1 year but within 5 years
-     
Due after 5 years but within 10 years
-     
Due after ten years
11,959
11,765
6.80   
Total
17,177
16,955
6.50   
       
Total:
     
Due within 1 year
5,218
5,190
5.81   
Due after 1 year but within 5 years
348
351
3.79   
Due after 5 years but within 10 years
81,562
80,343
3.90   
Due after ten years
104,503
103,863
4.98   
Total
$191,631
$189,747
4.54%

Sources of Funds

General.   The Bank's primary sources of funding for its lending and investment activities include deposits,  repayments of loans and MBS, investment security maturities and redemptions, FHLBNY advances and borrowing in the form of REPOS entered into with various financial institutions, including the FHLBNY.  The Bank also sells selected multifamily residential and mixed use loans to FNMA, and all long-term, one- to four-family residential real estate loans to either FNMA or other financial institutions.  The Company may additionally issue debt under appropriate circumstances.

Deposits.   The Bank offers a variety of deposit accounts possessing a range of interest rates and terms.  At December 31, 2007, the Bank offered, and presently offers, savings, money market, checking, NOW and Super NOW accounts, and CDs. The flow of deposits is influenced significantly by general economic conditions, changes in prevailing interest rates, and competition from other financial institutions and investment products. Traditionally, the Bank has relied upon direct marketing, customer service, convenience and long-standing relationships with customers to generate deposits.  The communities in which the Bank maintains branch offices have historically provided nearly all of its deposits. At December 31, 2007, the Bank had deposit liabilities of $2.18 billion, up $171.5 million from December 31, 2006 (See "Part II - Item 7 – Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Liquidity and Capital Resources").  Within total deposits at December 31, 2007, $364.6 million, or 16.7%, consisted of CDs with a minimum denomination of one-hundred thousand dollars.  Individual Retirement Accounts totaled $120.6 million, or 5.5% of total deposits on that date.

The Bank is authorized to accept brokered CDs up to an aggregate limit of $120.0 million.  At December 31, 2007 and 2006, the Bank had no brokered CDs.

The following table presents the deposit activity of the Bank for the periods indicated:

 
Year Ended December 31,
 
2007
2006
2005
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
Deposits
$3,098,739
$1,826,641 
$2,942,773 
Withdrawals
3,003,034
1,789,552
3,279,191 
Deposits (less) greater than Withdrawals
$95,705
$37,089
(336,418)
Interest credited
75,761
56,671
41,141 
Total (decrease) increase in deposits
$171,466
$93,760
$(295,277)

At December 31, 2007, the Bank had $364.6 million in CDs with a minimum denomination of one-hundred thousand dollars as follows:

 
 
Maturity Period
 
 
Amount
Weighted Average Rate
(Dollars in Thousands)
Within three months
$121,329
4.61%
After three but within six months
181,170
4.88   
After six but within twelve months
36,636
4.46   
After 12 months
25,456
4.55   
Total
$364,591
4.72%

The following table sets forth the distribution of the Bank's deposit accounts and the related weighted average interest rates at the dates indicated:

 
At December 31, 2007
 
At December 31, 2006
 
At December 31, 2005
 
 
 
Amount
Percent
of Total Deposits
Weighted Average Rate
 
 
 
Amount
Percent of Total Deposits
Weighted Average Rate
 
 
 
Amount
Percent of Total Deposits
Weighted Average Rate
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
Savings accounts
$274,067
12.57%
0.55%
 
$298,522
14.86%
0.59%
 
$335,527
17.52%
0.56%
CDs
1,077,087
49.41   
4.61   
 
1,064,669
53.01   
4.76   
 
978,585
51.11   
3.50   
Money market accounts
678,759
31.14   
4.04   
 
514,607
25.62   
3.56   
 
464,962
24.28   
1.69   
NOW and
   Super NOW accounts
58,414
2.68   
2.28   
 
 
35,519
1.77   
 
1.08   
 
 
38,697
 
2.02   
 
1.01   
Checking accounts
91,671
4.20   
0.15   
 
95,215
4.74   
-    
 
97,001
5.07   
-    
Totals
$2,179,998
100.00%
3.67%
 
$2,008,532
100.00%
3.54%
 
$1,914,772
100.00%
2.32%


F-59

 
 

 


The following table presents, by interest rate ranges, the dollar amount of CDs outstanding at the dates indicated and the period to maturity of the CDs outstanding at December 31, 2007:

 
                Period to Maturity at December 31, 2007
 
 
Interest Rate Range
 
One Year or Less
Over One Year to Three Years
Over Three Years to Five Years
 
Over Five Years
 
Total at
December 31,
2007
Total at
December 31,
2006
Total at
December 31,
2005
(Dollars in Thousands)
2.00% and below
$21,802
$22
-
-
 
$21,824
$69,396
$134,953
2.01% to 3.00%
17,578
4,237
$112
-
 
21,927
77,401
187,456
3.01% to 4.00%
198,624
24,729
7,230
$10
 
230,593
   63,645
423,177
4.01% to 5.00%
452,445
55,312
1,603
-
 
509,360
142,657
220,750
5.01% and above
277,679
15,628
76
-
 
293,383
711,570
12,249
Total
$968,128
$99,928
$9,021
$10
 
$1,077,087
$1,064,669
$978,585

Borrowings.   The Bank has been a member and shareholder of the FHLBNY since 1980. One of the privileges offered to FHLBNY shareholders is the ability to secure advances from the FHLBNY under various lending programs at competitive interest rates.  The Bank's borrowing line equaled $1.04 billion at December 31, 2007.

The Bank had FHLBNY advances totaling $706.5 million and $571.5 million at December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively. At December 31, 2007, the Bank maintained sufficient collateral, as defined by the FHLBNY (principally in the form of real estate loans), to secure such advances.  

REPOS totaled $155.1 million and $120.2 million, respectively, at December 31, 2007 and 2006.  REPOS involve the delivery of securities to broker-dealers as collateral for borrowing transactions. The securities remain registered in the name of the Bank, and are returned upon the maturities of the agreements. Funds to repay the Bank's REPOS at maturity are provided primarily by cash received from the maturing securities.

Presented below is information concerning REPOS and FHLBNY advances for the periods presented:

REPOS:
 
At or for the Year Ended December 31,
 
2007
2006
2005
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
Balance outstanding at end of period
$155,080    
$120,235   
$205,455   
Average interest cost at end of period
4.53%
3.54%
2.99%
Average balance outstanding during the period
$132,685    
$134,541   
$205,530   
Average interest cost during the period (a)
4.11%
1.95%(a)
2.90%
Carrying value of underlying collateral at end of period
$163,116    
$126,830   
$213,925   
Estimated fair value of underlying collateral
$163,116    
$126,830   
$213,925   
Maximum balance outstanding at month end during period
$155,160    
$205,455   
$205,584   

(a) During the year ended December 31, 2006, the Company recorded a reduction of $2,176 in interest expense on REPOs that resulted from such borrowings that were prepaid.  Excluding this reduction, the average cost of REPOs would have been 3.56% during the year ended December 31, 2006.

FHLBNY Advances:
 
At or for the Year Ended December 31,
 
2007
2006
2005
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
Balance outstanding at end of period
$706,500
$571,500
$531,500
Average interest cost at end of period
4.07%
4.37%
4.62%
Weighted average balance outstanding during the period
$520,972
$565,612
$508,583
Average interest cost during the period (1)
4.30%
4.69%
4.49%
Maximum balance outstanding at month end during period
$706,500
$596,500
$531,500

(1) Amounts in the above table exclude the effects of prepayment expenses paid on FHLBNY advances.  Including prepayment expenses of $1.4 million paid on FHLBNY advances during the year ended December 31, 2006, the average interest cost on FHLBNY advances was 4.45% during the year ended December 31, 2006.  The Bank did not prepay any FHLBNY advances during the years ended December 31, 2007 or 2005.

During the year ended December 31, 2006, the Company engaged in two separate borrowing restructuring transactions.  In the initial transaction, the Company restructured $145.0 million of its borrowings in order to lower their average cost.  Borrowings with a weighted average cost of 4.46% and a weighted average term to maturity of one year were replaced with borrowings having a weighted average cost of 4.17% and a final maturity of ten years, callable after year one.  Since portions of the original borrowings were satisfied at a discount, the Company recorded a non-recurring reduction of $43,200 in interest expense related to the prepayment.

      In the second transaction, the Company restructured $170.0 million of wholesale borrowings.  Under this restructuring, $120.0 million of REPOs and $50.0 million in FHLBNY advances were prepaid and replaced.   The prepaid borrowings had a weighted average interest rate of 4.53%, and were replaced with a combination of REPOs and FHLBNY advances having an initial weighted average interest rate of 3.79%. The replacement FHLBNY advances have a 4.4% fixed rate of interest, a final maturity of ten years and are callable by the FHLBNY after an initial period (the "Lockout Period") of one, two or three years.  The replacement REPOs have a ten-year maturity and a Lockout Period of either one or two years.  During the Lockout Period, the REPOs are variable rate (indexed to 3-month LIBOR), and have embedded interest rate caps and floors that ensure their reset interest rate will not exceed their initial interest rate.  After the Lockout Period, if not called by the lender, the REPOs convert to an average fixed rate of 4.90%.  The Company recorded a non-recurring reduction of $764,000 in interest expense related to the prepayment.

Subsidiary Activities

In addition to the Bank, the Holding Company's direct and indirect subsidiaries consist of seven wholly-owned corporations, two of which are directly owned by the Holding Company and five of which are directly owned by the Bank. Havemeyer Equities Inc., a corporation formerly owned by the Bank, was dissolved in 2007.  The following table presents an overview of the Holding Company's subsidiaries, other than the Bank, as of December 31, 2007:

 
Subsidiary
Year/ State of Incorporation
 
Primary Business Activities
Direct Subsidiaries of the Holding Company:
   
842 Manhattan Avenue Corp.
1995/ New York
Management and ownership of real estate.  Currently
   Inactive
Dime Community Capital Trust I
2004/ Delaware
Statutory Trust (1)
Direct Subsidiaries of the Bank:
   
Boulevard Funding Corp.
1981 / New York
Currently inactive
Havemeyer Investments, Inc.
1997 / New York
Sale of non-FDIC insured investment products
DSBW Preferred Funding Corp.
1998 / Delaware
Real Estate Investment Trust investing in multifamily
   residential and commercial real estate loans
DSBW Residential Preferred Funding Corp.
1998 / Delaware
Real Estate Investment Trust investing in one- to
   four-family real estate loans
Dime Reinvestment Corporation
2004 / Delaware
Community Development Entity.  Currently inactive.

 
(1)   Dime Community Capital Trust I was established for the exclusive purpose of issuing and selling $72.2 million of capital securities and using the proceeds to acquire $72.2 million of junior subordinated debt securities issued by the Holding Company. The junior subordinated debt (referred to later in this Annual Report as "trust preferred securities payable " bear an interest rate of 7.0%, mature on April 14, 2034 and are the sole assets of Dime Community Capital Trust I.  In accordance with revised interpretation No. 46, "Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities, an interpretation of ARB No. 51," Dime Community Capital Trust I is not consolidated with the Holding Company for financial reporting purposes.

Personnel

As of December 31, 2007, the Company had 334 full-time employees and 80 part-time employees.  The employees are not represented by a collective bargaining unit, and the Holding Company and all of its subsidiaries consider their relationships with their employees to be good.


Federal, State and Local Taxation

Federal Taxation

The following is a discussion of material tax matters and does not purport to be a comprehensive description of the tax rules applicable to the Company.

General.  The Bank was last audited by the Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") for its taxable year ended December 31, 1988.  For federal income tax purposes, the Company files a consolidated income tax return on a June 30th fiscal year basis using the accrual method of accounting and is subject to federal income taxation in the same manner as other corporations with some exceptions, including particularly the Bank's tax reserve for bad debts, discussed below.

Tax Bad Debt Reserves.  The Bank, as a "large bank" under IRS classifications (i.e., one with assets having an adjusted basis in excess of $500 million), is: (i) unable to make additions to its tax bad debt reserve, (ii) permitted to deduct bad debts only as they occur, and (iii) required to recapture (i.e., take into income) over a multi-year period a portion of the balance of its tax bad debt reserves as of June 30, 1997.  Since the Bank had already provided a deferred income tax liability for the bad debt reserve for financial reporting purposes, there was no adverse impact to the Bank's financial condition or results of operations from the enactment of the federal legislation that imposed the recapture requirement.

Distributions. Non-dividend distributions to shareholders of the Bank are considered distributions from the Bank's "base year tax bad debt reserve" (i.e., its reserve as of December 31, 1987, to the extent thereof), and then from its supplemental reserve for losses on loans.  Non-dividend distributions include distributions: (i) in excess of the Bank's current and accumulated earnings and profits, as calculated for federal income tax purposes; (ii) for redemption of stock; and (iii) for partial or complete liquidation.

An amount based on the total non-dividend distributions paid will be included in the Bank's taxable income in the year of distribution.  Dividends paid out of current or accumulated earnings and profits will not be included in the Bank's income.  The amount of additional taxable income created from a non-dividend distribution is the amount that, when reduced by the amount of the tax attributable to this income, is equal to the amount of the distribution. Thus, assuming a 35% federal corporate income tax rate, approximately one and one-half times the amount of such distribution (but not in excess of the amount of the above-mentioned reserves) would be includable in income for federal income tax purposes. (See "Item 1 – Business - Regulation - Regulation of Federal Savings Associations - Limitation on Capital Distributions," for a discussion of limits on the payment of dividends by the Bank). The Bank does not intend to pay dividends that would result in a recapture of any portion of its base year tax bad debt reserves.

Corporate Alternative Minimum Tax. The Bank's current federal rate is 35% of taxable income.  The Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code") imposes a tax on alternative minimum taxable income ("AMTI") at a rate of 20%. AMTI is adjusted by determining the tax treatment of certain items in a manner that negates the deferral or deduction of income resulting from the customary tax treatment of those items. Thus, the Bank's AMTI is increased by 75% of the amount by which the Bank's adjusted current earnings exceed its AMTI (determined without regard to this adjustment and prior to reduction for net operating losses).

State and Local Taxation

State of New York. The Company is subject to New York State ("NYS") franchise tax on one of several alternative bases, whichever results in the greatest tax, and files combined returns for this purpose. The basic tax is measured by "entire net income," which is federal taxable income with adjustments.  In instances where entire net income is less than zero, the Bank is taxed at rate equal to 1% of assets.

For NYS tax purposes, as long as the Bank continues to satisfy certain definitional tests relating to its assets and the nature of its business, it will be permitted deductions, within specified formula limits, for additions to its tax bad debt reserves for purposes of computing its entire net income.

The Bank's deduction with respect to "qualifying loans," which are generally loans secured by certain interests in real property, may be computed using an amount based on the Bank's actual loss experience (the "Experience Method") or 32% of the Bank's entire net income, computed without regard to this deduction and reduced by the amount of any permitted addition to the Bank's reserve for non-qualifying loans.  The Bank's deduction with respect to non-qualifying loans must be computed pursuant to the Experience Method.  The Bank reviews the most appropriate method of calculating the deduction attributable to an addition to the tax bad debt reserves each year.

The portion of the NYS tax bad debt reserve in excess of a reserve amount computed pursuant to the Experience Method is subject to recapture upon a non-dividend distribution in a manner similar to the recapture of the federal tax bad debt reserves for such distributions. The tax bad debt reserve is additionally subject to recapture in the event that the Bank fails either to satisfy a thrift definitional test relating to the composition of its assets or to maintain a thrift charter.

In general, the Holding Company is not required to pay NYS tax on dividends and interest received from the Bank.

The statutory NYS tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2007 approximated 8.63% of taxable income.  This rate included a metropolitan commuter transportation district surcharge.

City of New York.  The Holding Company and the Bank are both subject to a NYC banking corporation tax of 9% on taxable income allocated to NYC.   In instances where entire net income is less than zero, the Bank is taxed at rate equal to 1% of assets deemed to be headquartered in New York City.

NYC generally conforms its tax law to NYS tax law in the determination of taxable income (including the laws relating to tax bad debt reserves).  NYC tax law, however, does not allow a deduction for the carryover of a net operating loss of a banking company.

State of Delaware. As a Delaware holding company not earning income in Delaware, the Holding Company is exempt from Delaware corporate income tax, however, is required to file an annual report and pay an annual franchise tax to the State of Delaware.

Regulation

General

The Bank is subject to extensive regulation, examination, and supervision by the OTS, as its chartering agency, and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation ("FDIC"), as its deposit insurer.  The Bank's deposit accounts are insured up to applicable limits by the FDIC under the Deposit Insurance Fund ("DIF") [formerly the Bank Insurance Fund ("BIF") and the Savings Association Insurance Fund ("SAIF"), which merged into the DIF as of March 31, 2006].  The Bank must file reports with the OTS concerning its activities and financial condition, and must obtain regulatory approval prior to entering into certain transactions, such as mergers with, or acquisitions of, other depository institutions. The OTS conducts periodic examinations to assess the Bank's safety and soundness and compliance with various regulatory requirements. This regulation and supervision establishes a comprehensive framework of activities in which a savings association may engage and is intended primarily for the protection of the DIF and depositors.  As a publicly-held unitary savings and loan holding company, the Holding Company is required to file certain reports with, and otherwise comply with the rules and regulations of, both the SEC, under the federal securities laws, and the OTS.

The OTS and the FDIC have significant discretion in connection with their supervisory and enforcement activities and examination policies, including policies with respect to the classification of assets and the establishment of adequate loan loss reserves for regulatory purposes. Any change in such policies, whether by the OTS, the FDIC or the United States Congress, could have a material adverse impact on the operations of the Company.

The following discussion is intended to be a summary of the material statutes and regulations applicable to savings associations and savings and loan holding companies, and does not purport to be a comprehensive description of all such statutes and regulations.

Regulation of Federal Savings Associations

Business Activities.   The Bank derives its lending and investment powers from the Home Owners' Loan Act, as amended (''HOLA''), and the regulations of the OTS enacted thereunder. Pursuant thereto, the Bank may invest in mortgage loans secured by residential and commercial real estate, commercial and consumer loans, certain types of debt securities, and certain other assets. The Bank may also establish service corporations that may engage in activities not otherwise permissible for the Bank, including certain real estate equity investments and securities and insurance brokerage activities. The investment powers are subject to various limitations, including a: (i) prohibition against the acquisition of any corporate debt security not rated in one of the four highest rating categories; (ii) limit of 400% of capital on the aggregate amount of loans secured by non-residential real property; (iii) limit of 20% of assets on commercial loans, with the amount of commercial loans in excess of 10% of assets being limited to small business loans; (iv) limit of 35% of assets on the aggregate amount of consumer loans and commercial paper and corporate debt securities; (v) limit of 5% of assets on non-conforming loans (i.e., loans in excess of specified amounts); and (vi) limit of the greater of 5% of assets or capital on certain construction loans made for the purpose of financing property which is, or is expected to become, residential.

Interagency Guidance on Nontraditional Mortgage Product Risks.  On October 4, 2006, the OTS and other federal bank regulatory authorities published the Interagency Guidance on Nontraditional Mortgage Product Risks (the “Nontraditional Mortgage Product Guidance”). The Nontraditional Mortgage Product Guidance describes sound practices for managing risk, as well as marketing, originating and servicing nontraditional mortgage products, which include, among other things, interest only loans. The Nontraditional Mortgage Product Guidance sets forth supervisory expectations with respect to loan terms and underwriting standards, portfolio and risk management practices and consumer protection. For example, the Nontraditional Mortgage Product Guidance indicates that originating interest only loans with reduced documentation is considered a layering of risk and that institutions are expected to demonstrate mitigating factors to support their underwriting decision and the borrower’s repayment capacity. Specifically, the Nontraditional Mortgage Product Guidance indicates that a lender may accept a borrower’s statement as to the borrower’s income without obtaining verification only if there are mitigating factors that clearly minimize the need for direct verification of repayment capacity and that, for many borrowers, institutions should be able to readily document income.

Statement on Subprime Lending. On June 29, 2007, the OTS and other federal bank regulatory agencies issued a final Statement on Subprime Mortgage Lending (the “Subprime Mortgage Statement”) to address the growing concerns facing the subprime mortgage market, particularly with respect to rapidly rising subprime default rates that may indicate borrowers do not have the ability to repay adjustable-rate subprime loans originated by financial institutions.  In particular, the agencies express concern in the Subprime Mortgage Statement that current underwriting practices do not take into account that many subprime borrowers are not prepared for "payment shock" and that current subprime lending practices compound the risk for financial institutions.  The Subprime Mortgage Statement describes the prudent safety and soundness and consumer protection standards that financial institutions should follow to ensure borrowers obtain loans that they can afford to repay.  These standards include a fully indexed, fully amortized qualification for borrowers and cautions on risk-layering features, including expectation that stated income and reduced documentation should be accepted only if there are documented mitigating factors that clearly minimize the need for verification of a borrower's repayment capacity.  Consumer protection standards include clear and balanced product disclosures to customers and limits on prepayment penalties that allow for a reasonable period of time, typically at least 60 days, for borrowers to refinance prior to the expiration of the initial fixed interest rate period without penalty.  The Subprime Mortgage Statement also reinforces the April 17, 2007 Interagency Statement on Working with Mortgage Borrowers, in which the federal bank regulatory agencies encouraged institutions to work constructively with residential borrowers who are financially unable or reasonably expected to be unable to meet their contractual payment obligations on their home loans.

The Company has evaluated the Nontraditional Mortgage Product Guidance and the Subprime Mortgage Statement to determine our compliance and, as necessary, modified our risk management practices, underwriting guidelines and consumer protection standards.

Loans to One Borrower.   Under HOLA, savings associations are generally subject to limits on loans to one borrower identical to those imposed on national banks. Generally, pursuant to these limits, a savings association may not advance a loan or extend credit to a single or related group of borrowers in excess of 15% of the association's unimpaired capital and unimpaired surplus. Additional amounts may be advanced, not in excess of 10% of unimpaired capital and unimpaired surplus, if such loans or extensions of credit are fully secured by readily-marketable collateral. Such collateral is defined to include certain debt and equity securities and bullion, but generally does not include real estate. At December 31, 2007, the Bank's limit on loans to one borrower was $71.2 million.  The Bank's largest aggregate amount of loans to one borrower on that date was $36.1 million and the second largest borrower had an aggregate loan balance of $33.9 million.

QTL Test.  HOLA requires savings associations to satisfy a QTL test.  A savings association may satisfy the QTL test by maintaining at least 65% of its ''portfolio assets'' in certain ''qualified thrift investments'' during at least nine months of the most recent twelve-month period. ''Portfolio assets'' means, in general, an association's total assets less the sum of: (i) specified liquid assets up to 20% of total assets, (ii) certain intangibles, including goodwill, credit card relationships and purchased MSR, and (iii) the value of property used to conduct the association's business. ''Qualified thrift investments'' include various types of loans made for residential and housing purposes; investments related to such purposes, including certain mortgage-backed and related securities; and small business, education, and credit card loans.  A savings association may additionally satisfy the QTL test by qualifying as a "domestic building and loan association" as defined in the Code.  At December 31, 2007, the Bank maintained 69.1% of its portfolio assets in qualified thrift investments. The Bank also satisfied the QTL test in each of the prior 12 months and, therefore, was a QTL.

A savings association that fails the QTL test must either operate under certain restrictions on its activities or convert to a bank charter. The initial restrictions include prohibitions against (i) engaging in any new activity not permissible for a national bank, (ii) paying dividends not permissible under national bank regulations, and (iii) establishing any new branch office in a location not permissible for a national bank in the association's home state. In addition, within one year of the date a savings association ceases to satisfy the QTL test, any company controlling the association must register under, and become subject to the requirements of, the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended ("BHCA").  A savings association that has failed the QTL test may requalify under the QTL test and be relieved of the limitations; however, it may do so only once.  If the savings association does not requalify under the QTL test within three years after failing the QTL test, it will be required to terminate any activity, and dispose of any investment, not permissible for a national bank.

Capital Requirements.  OTS regulations require savings associations to satisfy three minimum capital standards: (i) a tangible capital ratio of 1.5%; (ii) a risk-based capital ratio of 8%; and (iii) a leverage capital ratio.  For depository institutions that have been assigned the highest composite rating of 1 under the Uniform Financial Institutions Rating System, the minimum required leverage capital ratio is 3%.  For any other depository institution, the minimum required leverage capital ratio is 4%, unless a higher leverage capital ratio is warranted by the particular circumstances or risk profile of the depository institution.  In assessing an institution's capital adequacy, the OTS takes into consideration not only these numeric factors but qualitative factors as well, and possesses the authority to establish increased capital requirements for individual institutions when necessary.

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Improvement Act ("FDICIA") requires that the OTS and other federal banking agencies revise their risk-based capital standards, with appropriate transition rules, to ensure that they take into account interest rate risk ("IRR"), concentration of risk and the risks of non-traditional activities.  Current OTS regulations do not include a specific IRR component of the risk-based capital requirement; however, the OTS monitors the IRR of individual institutions through a variety of methods, including an analysis of the change in net portfolio value ("NPV").  NPV is the difference between the present value of the expected future cash flows of the Bank’s assets and liabilities, plus the value of net expected cash flows from either loan origination commitments or purchases of securities and, therefore, hypothetically represents the value of an institution's net worth.  The OTS has also used the NPV analysis as part of its evaluation of certain applications or notices submitted by thrift institutions.  In addition, OTS Thrift Bulletin 13a provides guidance on the management of IRR and the responsibility of boards of directors in that area.  The OTS, through its general oversight of the safety and soundness of savings associations, retains the right to impose minimum capital requirements on individual institutions to the extent they are not in compliance with certain written OTS guidelines regarding NPV analysis.  The OTS has not imposed any such requirements on the Bank.

The table below presents the Bank's regulatory capital as compared to the OTS regulatory capital requirements:

 
As of December 31, 2007
 
 
Actual
Minimum Capital Requirement
 
Amount
Ratio
Amount
Ratio
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
   Tangible
$269,231
7.88%
$51,228
1.5%
   Leverage Capital
269,231
7.88   
136,609
4.0   
   Total Risk-based capital
266,645
11.92   
178,954
8.0   


F-59

 
 

 


The following is a reconciliation of GAAP capital to regulatory capital for the Bank:

 
At December 31, 2007
 
Tangible Capital
Leverage Capital
Total Risk-Based Capital
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
GAAP capital
$321,091 
$321,091 
$321,091 
Non-allowable assets:
     
MSR
(254)
(254)
(254)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
4,032 
4,032 
4,032 
Goodwill
(55,638)
(55,638)
(55,638)
Tier 1 risk-based capital
269,231 
269,231 
269,231 
Adjustment for recourse provision on loans sold
-  
-  
(17,973)
General valuation allowance
-  
-  
15,387 
Total Tier 2 risk based capital
269,231 
269,231 
266,645 
Minimum capital requirement
51,228 
136,609 
178,954 
Regulatory capital excess
$218,003 
$132,622 
$87,691 

Limitation on Capital Distributions.   OTS regulations impose limitations upon capital distributions by savings associations, such as cash dividends, payments to purchase or otherwise acquire its shares, payments to shareholders of another institution in a cash-out merger, and other distributions charged against capital.

As the subsidiary of a savings and loan holding company, the Bank is required to file a notice with the OTS at least 30 days prior to each capital distribution.  However, if the total amount of all capital distributions (including each proposed capital distribution) for the applicable calendar year exceeds net income for that year plus the retained net income for the preceding two years, the Bank must file an application for OTS approval of a proposed capital distribution.  In addition, the OTS can prohibit a proposed capital distribution otherwise permissible under the regulation if it determines that the association is in need of greater than customary supervision or that a proposed distribution would constitute an unsafe or unsound practice. Further, under OTS prompt corrective action regulations, the Bank would be prohibited from making a capital distribution if, after the distribution, the Bank would fail to satisfy its minimum capital requirements, as described above  (See ''Item 1 – Business - Regulation - Regulation of Federal Savings Associations - Prompt Corrective Regulatory Action'').  In addition, pursuant to the Federal Deposit Insurance Act ("FDIA"), an insured depository institution such as the Bank is prohibited from making capital distributions, including the payment of dividends, if, after making such distribution, the institution would become "undercapitalized" as defined in the FDIA.

Liquidity.   Pursuant to OTS regulations, the Bank is required to maintain sufficient liquidity to ensure its safe and sound operation (See "Part II - Item 7 – Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Liquidity and Capital Resources" for further discussion).  At December 31, 2007, the Bank's liquid assets approximated 11.48% of total assets.

Assessments.   Savings associations are required by OTS regulation to pay semi-annual assessments to the OTS to fund its operations.  The regulations base the assessment for individual savings associations, other than those with total assets never exceeding $100.0 million, on three components: the size of the association (on which the basic assessment is based); the association's supervisory condition, which results in percentage increases for any savings institution with a composite rating of 3, 4 or 5 in its most recent safety and soundness examination; and the complexity of the association's operations, which results in percentage increases for a savings association that managed over $1 billion in trust assets, serviced loans for other institutions aggregating more than $1 billion, or had certain off-balance sheet assets aggregating more than $1 billion.  Savings and loan holding companies are also required to pay semi-annual assessments to the OTS.  For the year ended December 31, 2007, assessments paid for the Bank and Holding Company totaled $13,000.

Branching.   Subject to certain limitations, HOLA and OTS regulations permit federally chartered savings associations to establish branches in any state of the United States. The authority to establish such a branch is available: (i) in states that expressly authorize branches of savings associations located in another state, and (ii) to an association that either satisfies the QTL test or qualifies as a ''domestic building and loan association'' under the Code, which imposes qualification requirements similar to those for a QTL under HOLA (See "Item 1 – Business - Regulation - Regulation of Federal Savings Associations - QTL Test'').  HOLA and OTS regulations preempt any state law purporting to regulate branching by federal savings associations.

Community Reinvestment.   Under the Community Reinvestment Act ("CRA"), as implemented by OTS regulations, a savings association possesses a continuing and affirmative obligation, consistent with its safe and sound operation, to help satisfy the credit needs of its entire community, including low and moderate income neighborhoods. The CRA does not establish specific lending requirements or programs for financial institutions nor does it limit an institution's discretion to develop the types of products and services it believes are most appropriate to its particular community. The CRA requires the OTS, in connection with its examination of a savings association, to assess the association's record of satisfying the credit needs of its community and consider such record in its evaluation of certain applications by the association.  The assessment is composed of three tests: (i) a lending test, to evaluate the institution's record of making loans in its service areas; (ii) an investment test, to evaluate the institution's record of investing in community development projects, affordable housing, and programs benefiting low or moderate income individuals and businesses; and (iii) a service test, to evaluate the institution's delivery of services through its branches, automated teller machines and other offices.  The CRA also requires all institutions to make public disclosure of their CRA ratings. The Bank received an "Outstanding" CRA rating in its most recent examination.   Regulations additionally require that the Bank publicly disclose certain agreements that are in fulfillment of the CRA.  The Bank has no such agreements.

Transactions with Related Parties.   The Bank's authority to engage in transactions with its ''affiliates'' is limited by OTS regulations, Sections 23A, 23B, 22(g) and 22(h) of the Federal Reserve Act (''FRA''), Regulation W issued by the Federal Reserve Board ("FRB"), as well as additional limitations adopted by the Director of the OTS.  OTS regulations regarding transactions with affiliates conform to Regulation W.  These provisions, among other matters, prohibit, limit or place restrictions upon a savings institution extending credit to, or entering into certain transactions with, its affiliates, which, for the Bank, would include the Holding Company, principal shareholders, directors and executive officers.

OTS regulations include additional restrictions on savings associations under Section 11 of HOLA, including provisions prohibiting a savings association from: (i) advancing a loan to an affiliate engaged in non-bank holding company activities; and (ii) purchasing or investing in securities issued by an affiliate that is not a subsidiary.  OTS regulations also include certain exemptions from these prohibitions.  The FRB and the OTS require each depository institution that is subject to Sections 23A and 23B to implement policies and procedures to ensure compliance with Regulation W and the OTS regulations regarding transactions with affiliates.

Section 402 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 ("Sarbanes-Oxley") prohibits the extension of personal loans to directors and executive officers of issuers (as defined in Sarbanes-Oxley).  The prohibition, however, does not apply to any loan by an insured depository institution, such as the Bank, if the loan is subject to the insider lending restrictions of Section 22(h) of the FRA, as implemented by Regulation O (12 CFR 215).

The Bank's authority to extend credit to its directors, executive officers, and shareholders owning 10% or more of the Holding Company's outstanding common stock, as well as to entities controlled by such persons, is additionally governed by the requirements of Sections 22(g) and 22(h) of the FRA and Regulation O of the FRB enacted thereunder. Among other matters, these provisions require that extensions of credit to insiders: (i) be made on terms substantially the same as, and follow credit underwriting procedures not less stringent than, those prevailing for comparable transactions with unaffiliated persons and that do not involve more than the normal risk of repayment or present other unfavorable features; and (ii) not exceed certain amount limitations individually and in the aggregate, which limits are based, in part, on the amount of the association's capital. Regulation O additionally requires that extensions of credit in excess of certain limits be approved in advance by the association's board of directors.   The Holding Company and Bank both presently prohibit loans to Directors and executive management.

Enforcement.   Under FDICIA, the OTS possesses primary enforcement responsibility over federally-chartered savings associations and has the authority to bring enforcement action against all ''institution-affiliated parties,'' including any controlling stockholder or any shareholder, attorney, appraiser or accountant who knowingly or recklessly participates in any violation of applicable law or regulation, breach of fiduciary duty or certain other wrongful actions that cause, or are likely to cause, more than minimal loss or other significant adverse effect on an insured savings association. Civil penalties cover a wide series of violations and actions and range from $5,000 for each day during which violations of law, regulations, orders, and certain written agreements and conditions continue, up to $1 million per day if the person obtained a substantial pecuniary gain as a result of such violation or knowingly or recklessly caused a substantial loss to the institution. Criminal penalties for certain financial institution crimes include fines of up to $1 million and imprisonment for up to 30 years. In addition, regulators possess substantial discretion to take enforcement action against an institution that fails to comply with regulatory structure, particularly with respect to capital requirements. Possible enforcement actions range from the imposition of a capital plan and capital directive to receivership, conservatorship, or the termination of deposit insurance. Under FDICIA, the FDIC has the authority to recommend to the Director of the OTS that enforcement action be taken with respect to a particular savings association. If action is not taken by the Director, the FDIC possesses authority to take such action under certain circumstances.

Standards for Safety and Soundness.   Pursuant to FDICIA, as amended by the Riegle Community Development and Regulatory Improvement Act of 1994, the OTS, together with the other federal bank regulatory agencies, has adopted guidelines prescribing safety and soundness standards relating to internal controls and information systems, internal audit systems, loan documentation, credit underwriting, interest rate risk exposure, asset growth, asset quality, earnings and compensation, fees and benefits. In general, the guidelines require, among other features, appropriate systems and practices to identify and manage the risks and exposures specified in the guidelines. The guidelines prohibit excessive compensation as an unsafe and unsound practice and describe compensation as excessive when the amounts paid are unreasonable or disproportionate to the services performed by an executive officer, employee, director or principal shareholder.  In addition, the OTS has adopted regulations pursuant to FDICIA that authorize, but do not require, the OTS to order an institution that has been given notice by the OTS that it is not satisfying any of such safety and soundness standards to submit a compliance plan. If, after being so notified, an institution fails to submit an acceptable compliance plan or fails in any material respect to implement an accepted compliance plan, the OTS must issue an order directing action to correct the deficiency and may issue an order directing other actions of the types to which an undercapitalized association is subject under the ''prompt corrective action'' provisions of FDICIA (See "Item 1 – Business - Regulation - Regulation of Savings Associations – Prompt Corrective Regulatory Action").  If an institution fails to comply with such an order, the OTS may seek enforcement in judicial proceedings and the imposition of civil money penalties.

Real Estate Lending Standards.   The OTS and the other federal banking agencies have adopted regulations prescribing standards for extensions of credit that are (i) secured by real estate, or (ii) made for the purpose of financing the construction of improvements on real estate.  The regulations require each savings association to establish and maintain written internal real estate lending standards that are consistent with safe and sound banking practices and appropriate to the size of the association and the nature and scope of its real estate lending activities. The standards must additionally conform to accompanying OTS guidelines, which include loan-to-value ratios for the different types of real estate loans. Associations are permitted to make a limited amount of loans that do not conform to the loan-to-value limitations provided such exceptions are reviewed and justified appropriately. The guidelines additionally contain a number of lending situations in which exceptions to the loan-to-value standards are permitted.

In 2006, the OTS adopted guidance entitled "Concentrations in Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Lending, Sound Risk Management Practices" (the "CRE Guidance"), to address concentrations of commercial real estate loans in savings associations.  The CRE Guidance reinforces and enhances the OTS existing regulations and guidelines for real estate lending and loan portfolio management, but does not establish specific commercial real estate lending limits.  Rather, the CRE Guidance seeks to promote sound risk management practices that will enable savings associations to continue to pursue commercial real estate lending in a safe and sound manner.  The CRE Guidance applies to savings associations with an accumulation of credit concentration exposures and asks that the associations quantify the additional risk such exposures may pose.  Such quantification should include the stratification of the commercial real estate portfolio by, among other qualities, property type, geographic market, tenant concentrations, tenant industries, developer concentrations and risk rating.  In addition, an institution should perform periodic market analyses for the various property types and geographic markets represented in its portfolio.  Further, an institution with commercial real estate concentration risk should also perform portfolio level stress tests or sensitivity analysis to quantify the impact of changing economic conditions on asset quality, earnings and capital.  The Bank commenced implementation of the requirements and suggestions set forth in the CRE Guidance during 2007, and will expand this process in 2008.

Prompt Corrective Regulatory Action.   Under the OTS prompt corrective action regulations, the OTS is required to take certain, and authorized to take other, supervisory actions against undercapitalized savings associations. For this purpose, a savings association is placed in one of five categories based on its capital: "well capitalized," "adequately capitalized," "undercapitalized," "significantly undercapitalized," and "critically undercapitalized." Generally, a capital restoration plan must be filed with the OTS within 45 days of the date an association receives notice that it is "undercapitalized," "significantly undercapitalized" or "critically undercapitalized," and the plan must be guaranteed by any parent holding company.  In addition, the institution becomes subject to various mandatory supervisory actions, including restrictions on growth of assets and other forms of expansion.  Generally, under the OTS regulations, a federally chartered savings association is treated as well capitalized if its total risk-based capital ratio is 10% or greater, its Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio is 6% or greater, its leverage ratio is 5% or greater, and it is not subject to any order or directive by the OTS to meet a specific capital level.  As of December 31, 2007, the Bank satisfied all criteria necessary to be categorized  "well capitalized" under the prompt corrective action regulatory framework.

When appropriate, the OTS can require corrective action by a savings association holding company under the ''prompt corrective action'' provisions of FDICIA.

Insurance of Deposit Accounts.  Savings associations are required to pay a deposit insurance premium.  The amount of the premium is determined based upon a risk-based assessment system, which was amended effective January 1, 2007.  During the years ended December 31, 2006 and 2005, the Bank was not required to pay any assessments on its deposits under the previously existing FDIC policies.   Under the amended system, the FDIC assigns an institution to one of four  risk categories entitled Risk Category I, II, III and IV, with Risk Category I considered most favorable and Risk Category IV considered least favorable.  Risk Category I contains all well capitalized institutions with capital adequacy, asset quality, management, earnings, and liquidity component ratings ("CAMEL Component Ratings") of either 1 or 2.  Risk Category II contains all institutions that are adequately capitalized and possess CAMEL Component Ratings of either 1, 2 or 3.  Risk Category III contains either undercapitalized institutions that have CAMEL Composite Ratings of 1, 2 or 3 or adequately capitalized institutions that have CAMEL Composite Ratings of 4 or 5.  Risk Category IV contains all institutions that are undercapitalized and have a CAMEL Composite Ratings of 4 or 5.  The Bank currently falls within Risk Category I.  Base assessment rates for institutions within Risk Category I range from 2 to 4 basis points, depending upon a combination of the institution's CAMEL Component Ratings and financial ratios.  The base assessment rates are fixed at 7 basis points, 25 basis points and 40 basis points for institutions within the Risk Categories II, III and IV, respectively.  The FDIC has the flexibility to adjust rates, without further notice-and-comment rulemaking, provided that no such adjustment can be greater than 3 basis points from one quarter to the next, adjustments cannot result in rates more than 3 basis points above or below the base rates and rates cannot be negative. Effective January 1, 2007, the FDIC set the assessment rates at 3 basis points above the base rates. Assessment rates, therefore, currently range from 5 to 43 basis points of deposits.  The assessment rate for the Bank's deposits is currently 5 basis points.  The FDIC also established 1.25% of estimated insured deposits as the designated reserve ratio of the DIF. The FDIC is authorized to change the assessment rates as necessary, subject to the previously discussed limitations, to maintain the required reserve ratio of 1.25%.  The DIF currently satisfies the reserve ratio requirement.  If the FDIC determines that assessment rates should be increased, institutions in all risk categories could be affected.  The FDIC has exercised this authority several times in the past and could raise insurance assessment rates in the future.

In November 2006, the FDIC notified the Bank that it was granted a credit of $1.6 million to apply against its insurance premiums commencing in 2007.  This credit resulted from final implementation of a provision of the Federal Deposit Insurance Reform Act of 2005 that compensated financial institutions such as the Bank that were required to pay insurance premiums prior to 1996 while other financial institutions that had units that operated under industrial loan company and thrift charters were not. This credit was used to offset 100% of the 2007 deposit insurance assessment.  The $466,000 remaining credit may be used to offset up to 90% of deposit insurance assessments in 2008.

The Deposit Insurance Funds Act of 1996 amended the FDIA to recapitalize the SAIF (which was merged with the BIF into the newly-formed DIF on March 31, 2006) and expand the assessment base for the payments of Financing Corporation ("FICO") bonds.  FICO bonds were sold by the federal government in order to finance the recapitalization of the SAIF and BIF insurance funds that was necessitated following payments from the funds to compensate depositors of federally-insured depository institutions that experienced bankruptcy and dissolution during the 1980's and 1990's.  The assessment rate is adjusted quarterly and was 0.0114% of total deposits of the Bank for the fourth quarter of 2007 and the first quarter of 2008.  The Bank's total expense in 2007 for the FICO bonds assessment was $258,000.

Privacy and Security Protection.  The OTS has adopted regulations implementing the privacy protection provisions of The Gramm- Leach-Bliley Act of 1999 ("Gramm-Leach").  The regulations require financial institutions to adopt procedures to protect customers and their "non-public personal information."  The regulations require the Bank to disclose its privacy policy, including identifying with whom it shares "non-public personal information," to customers at the time of establishing the customer relationship and annually thereafter.  In addition, the Bank is required to provide its customers the ability to "opt-out" of the sharing of their personal information with unaffiliated third parties, if the sharing of such information does not satisfy any of the permitted exceptions.  The Bank's existing privacy protection policy complies with the regulations.

The Bank is additionally subject to regulatory guidelines establishing standards for safeguarding customer information.  The guidelines describe the federal banking agencies' expectations for the creation, implementation and maintenance of an information security program, including administrative, technical and physical safeguards appropriate to the size and complexity of the institution and the nature and scope of its activities.  The standards set forth in the guidelines are intended to insure the security and confidentiality of customer records and information, and protect against anticipated threats or hazards to the security or integrity of such records and unauthorized access to or use of such records or information that could result in substantial customer harm or inconvenience.

Gramm-Leach additionally permits each state to enact legislation that is more protective of consumers' personal information.  Currently, there are a number of privacy bills pending in the New York legislature.  Management of the Company cannot predict the impact, if any, of these bills if enacted.

Internet Banking.  Technological developments are dramatically altering the methods by which most companies, including financial institutions, conduct their business.  The growth of the Internet is prompting banks to reconsider business strategies and adopt alternative distribution and marketing systems.  The federal banking regulatory agencies have conducted seminars and published materials targeted at various aspects of Internet banking and have indicated their intention to re-evaluate their regulations to ensure they encourage bank efficiency and competitiveness consistent with safe and sound banking practices.  The Company cannot assure that federal bank regulatory agencies will not adopt new regulations that will materially affect or restrict the Bank's Internet operations.

Insurance Activities.  As a federal savings association, the Bank is generally permitted to engage in certain insurance activities through subsidiaries.  OTS regulations prohibit depository institutions from conditioning the extension of credit to individuals upon either the purchase of an insurance product or annuity or an agreement by the consumer not to purchase an insurance product or annuity from an entity not affiliated with the depository institution.  The regulations additionally require prior disclosure of this prohibition if such products are offered to credit applicants.

Federal Home Loan Bank ("FHLB") System.   The Bank is a member of the FHLBNY, which is one of the twelve regional FHLB's composing the FHLB System. Each FHLB provides a central credit facility primarily for its member institutions. Any advances from the FHLBNY must be secured by specified types of collateral, and long-term advances may be obtained only for the purpose of providing funds for residential housing finance.  The Bank, as a member of the FHLBNY, is currently required to acquire and hold shares of FHLBNY Class B stock.  The Class B stock has a par value of $100 per share and is redeemable upon five years notice, subject to certain conditions.  The Class B stock has two subclasses, one for membership stock purchase requirements and the other for activity-based stock purchase requirements.  The minimum stock investment requirement in the FHLBNY Class B stock is the sum of the membership stock purchase requirement, determined on an annual basis at the end of each calendar year, and the activity-based stock purchase requirement, determined on a daily basis.  For the Bank, the membership stock purchase requirement is 0.2% of "mortgage-related assets," as defined by the FHLBNY, which consist primarily of residential mortgage loans and MBS held by the Bank.  The activity-based stock purchase requirement for the Bank is equal to the sum of: (i) 4.5% of outstanding borrowings from the FHLBNY; (ii) 4.5% of the outstanding principal balance of the "acquired member assets," as defined by the FHLBNY, and delivery commitments for acquired member assets; (iii) a specified dollar amount related to certain off-balance sheet items, which for the Bank is zero; and (iv) a specific percentage range from 0% to 5% of the carrying value on the FHLBNY's balance sheet of derivative contracts between the FHLBNY and its members, which is also zero for the Bank.  The Bank was in compliance with these requirements with an investment in FHLBNY Class B stock of $39.0 million at December 31, 2007.  The FHLBNY can adjust the specific percentages and dollar amount periodically within the ranges established by the FHLBNY capital plan.

Federal Reserve System.   The Bank is subject to provisions of the FRA and FRB regulations pursuant to which savings associations are required to maintain non-interest-earning cash reserves against their transaction accounts (primarily NOW and regular checking accounts).  FRB regulations generally require that reserves be maintained in the amount of 3% of the aggregate of transaction accounts in excess of $9.3 million through $43.9 million (subject to adjustment by the FRB) plus a reserve of 10% (subject to adjustment by the FRB between 8% and 14% against the portion of total transaction accounts in excess of $43.9 million).  The initial $9.3 million of otherwise reservable balances are currently exempt from the reserve requirements, however, the exemption is adjusted by the FRB at the end of each year.  The Bank is in compliance with the foregoing reserve requirements.

Because required reserves must be maintained in the form of either vault cash, a non-interest-bearing account at a Federal Reserve Bank, or a pass-through account as defined by the FRB, the effect of this reserve requirement is to reduce the Bank's interest-earning assets. The balances maintained to satisfy the FRB reserve requirements may be used to satisfy liquidity requirements imposed by the OTS.

Depository institutions are additionally authorized to borrow from the Federal Reserve ''discount window,'' however, FRB regulations require such institutions to hold reserves in the form of vault cash or deposits with Federal Reserve Banks in order to borrow.

Anti-Money Laundering and Customer Identification.   The Company is subject to OTS regulations implementing the Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001 ("PATRIOT Act").  The PATRIOT Act provides the federal government with powers to address terrorist threats through enhanced domestic security measures, expanded surveillance powers, increased information sharing and broadened anti-money laundering requirements.  By way of amendments to the Bank Secrecy Act, Title III of the PATRIOT Act enacted measures intended to encourage information sharing among bank regulatory and law enforcement agencies.  In addition, certain provisions of Title III and the related OTS regulations impose affirmative obligations on a broad range of financial institutions, including banks and thrifts.  Title III imposes the following requirements, among others, with respect to financial institutions: (i) establishment of anti-money laundering programs; (ii) establishment of procedures for obtaining identifying information from customers opening new accounts, including verifying their identity within a reasonable period of time; (iii) establishment of enhanced due diligence policies, procedures and controls designed to detect and report money laundering; and (iv) prohibition on correspondent accounts for foreign shell banks and compliance with recordkeeping obligations with respect to correspondent accounts of foreign banks.

In addition, bank regulators are directed to consider a holding company's effectiveness in preventing money laundering when ruling on FRA and Bank Merger Act applications.

Regulation of Holding Company

The Holding Company is a non-diversified unitary savings and loan holding company within the meaning of HOLA. As such, it is required to register with the OTS and is subject to OTS regulations, examinations, supervision and reporting requirements. In addition, the OTS has enforcement authority over the Holding Company's non-savings association subsidiaries.  Among other effects, this authority permits the OTS to restrict or prohibit activities that are determined to be a serious risk to the financial safety, soundness, or stability of a subsidiary savings association.

HOLA prohibits a savings association holding company, directly or indirectly, or through one or more subsidiaries, from acquiring another savings association or holding company thereof, without prior written approval of the OTS; acquiring or retaining, with certain exceptions, more than 5% of a non-subsidiary savings association, non-subsidiary holding company, or non-subsidiary company engaged in activities other than those permitted by HOLA; or acquiring or retaining control of a depository institution that is not insured by the FDIC. In evaluating an application by a holding company to acquire a savings association, the OTS must consider the financial and managerial resources and future prospects of the company and savings association involved, the effect of the acquisition on the risk to the insurance funds, the convenience and needs of the community, and competitive factors.

Gramm-Leach additionally restricts the powers of new unitary savings and loan association holding companies.  A unitary savings and loan holding company that is "grandfathered," i.e., became a unitary savings and loan holding company pursuant to an application filed with the OTS prior to May 4, 1999, such as the Holding Company, retains the authority it possessed under the law in existence as of May 4, 1999.  All other savings and loan holding companies are limited to financially related activities permissible for bank holding companies, as defined under Gramm-Leach.  Gramm-Leach also prohibits non-financial companies from acquiring grandfathered savings and loan association holding companies.

Upon any non-supervisory acquisition by the Holding Company of another savings association or a savings bank that satisfies the QTL test and is deemed to be a savings association by the OTS and that will be held as a separate subsidiary, the Holding Company will become a multiple savings association holding company and will be subject to limitations on the types of business activities in which it may engage.  HOLA currently limits the activities of a multiple savings association holding company and its non-insured association subsidiaries primarily to activities permissible under Section 4(c)(8) of the BHCA, subject to prior approval of the OTS, and to other activities authorized by OTS regulation.  Effective in April 2008, however, all savings and loan association holding companies will be permitted, with the prior approval of the OTS, to engage in all activities in which bank holding companies may engage under any regulation the FRB has promulgated under Section 4(c) of the BHCA.

The OTS is prohibited from approving any acquisition that would result in a multiple savings association holding company controlling savings associations in more than one state, subject to two exceptions: an acquisition of a savings association in another state (i) in a supervisory transaction, or (ii) pursuant to authority under the laws of the state of the association to be acquired that specifically permit such acquisitions.  The conditions imposed upon interstate acquisitions by those states that have enacted authorizing legislation vary.

The Bank must file a notice with the OTS prior to the payment of any dividends or other capital distributions to the Holding Company  (See "Item 1 – Business - Regulation - Regulation of Federal Savings Associations - Limitation on Capital Distributions'').

Federal Securities Laws

The Holding Company's common stock is registered with the SEC under Section 12(g) of the Exchange Act.  It is subject to the periodic reporting, proxy solicitation, insider trading restrictions and other requirements under the Exchange Act.

Item 1A.   Risk Factors

The Bank’s focus on multifamily and commercial real estate lending may subject it to greater risk of an adverse impact on operations from a decline in the economy.

The majority of loans in the Bank’s portfolio are secured by multifamily residential property. Multifamily loans are generally viewed as exposing lenders to a greater risk of loss than one- to four-family residential loans and typically involve higher loan principal amounts. Although multifamily loans are generally non-recourse, are underwritten based upon the cash flow generated by the collateral property and have loan to value ratios of less than 80%, in a decline in the economy, a borrower experiencing financial difficulties in connection with one income producing property may default on all of its outstanding loans, even if the properties securing the other loans are generating positive cash flow.  In addition, large loans tend to expose the Bank to a greater degree of risk due to the potential impact of losses from any one loan or concentration of loans to one borrower relative to the size of the Bank’s capital position.

As part of the Company’s strategic plan, it has increased its emphasis on commercial real estate loans over the past six years. Loans secured by commercial real estate are generally larger and involve a greater degree of risk than one- to four-family and multifamily residential mortgage loans. Because payments on loans secured by commercial real estate are often dependent upon successful operation or management of the collateral properties, repayment of such loans is generally subject to a greater extent to prevailing conditions in the real estate market or the economy. Further, the collateral securing such loans may depreciate over time, may be difficult to appraise and may fluctuate in value based upon the success of the business.

Multifamily and commercial real estate loans additionally involve a greater risk than one- to four- family residential mortgage loans because economic and real estate conditions, and government regulations such as rent control and rent stabilization laws, which are outside the control of the borrower or the Bank, could impair the value of the security for the loan or the future cash flow of such properties. As a result, rental income might not rise sufficiently over time to satisfy increases in the loan rate at repricing or increases in overhead expenses (i.e., utilities, taxes, etc.). Impaired loans are thus difficult to identify before they become problematic. In addition, if the cash flow from a collateral property is reduced (e.g., if leases are not obtained or renewed), the borrower’s ability to repay the loan and the value of the security for the loan may be impaired.

Dependence on economic and real estate conditions and geographic concentration in market area.

The Bank gathers deposits primarily from the communities and neighborhoods in close proximity to its branches. The Bank lends primarily in the NYC metropolitan area, although its overall lending area is much larger, and extends approximately 150 miles in each direction from its corporate headquarters in Brooklyn. The majority of the Bank’s mortgage loans are secured by properties located in its primary lending area, approximately 75% of which are located in the NYC boroughs of Brooklyn, Queens and Manhattan.  As a result of this geographic concentration, the Bank’s results of operations depend largely upon economic conditions in this area. A deterioration in economic conditions in the NYC metropolitan area could have a material adverse impact upon the quality of the Bank’s loan portfolio and the demand for its products and services, and, accordingly, on the Company’s results of operations, cash flows, business, financial condition and prospects.

Conditions in the real estate markets in which the collateral for the Bank’s mortgage loans are located strongly influence the level of the Bank’s non-performing loans and the value of its collateral. Real estate values are affected by, among other items, fluctuations in general or local economic conditions, supply and demand, changes in governmental rules or policies, the availability of loans to potential purchasers and acts of nature. Declines in real estate markets have in the past, and may in the future, negatively impact the Company’s results of operations, cash flows, business, financial condition and prospects.

The Bank’s allowance for loan losses is maintained at a level considered adequate by management to absorb losses inherent in its loan portfolio. The amount of inherent loan losses which could be ultimately realized is susceptible to changes in economic, operating and other conditions, including changes in interest rates, that could be beyond the Bank’s control. Such losses could exceed current estimates. Although management believes that the Bank’s allowance for loan losses is adequate, there can be no assurance that the allowance will be sufficient to satisfy actual loan losses should such losses be realized.

Increases in interest rates may reduce the Company’s profitability.

The Bank’s primary source of income is its net interest income, which is the difference between the interest income earned on its interest earning assets and the interest expense incurred on its interest bearing liabilities. The one-year interest rate sensitivity gap is the difference between interest rate sensitive assets maturing or repricing within one year and interest rate sensitive liabilities maturing or repricing within one year, expressed as a percentage of total assets. In a rising interest rate environment, an institution with a negative gap would generally be expected, absent the effects of other factors, to experience a greater increase in its cost of liabilities relative to its yield on assets, and thus decrease its net interest income.

Based upon historical experience, if interest rates were to rise, the Bank would expect the demand for multifamily loans to decline. Decreased loan origination volume would likely negatively impact the Bank's interest income. In addition, if interest rates were to rise rapidly and result in an economic decline, the Bank would expect its level of non-performing loans to increase. Such an increase in non-performing loans may result in an increase to the allowance for loan losses and possible increased charge-offs, which would negatively impact the Company's net income.

Further the actual amount of time before mortgage loans and MBS are repaid can be significantly impacted by changes in mortgage redemption rates and market interest rates. Mortgage prepayment, satisfaction and refinancing rates will vary due to several factors, including the regional economy in the area where the underlying mortgages were originated, seasonal factors, and other demographic variables. However, the most significant factors affecting prepayment, satisfaction and refinancing rates are prevailing interest rates, related mortgage refinancing opportunities and competition.  The level of mortgage and MBS prepayment, satisfaction and refinancing activity impacts the Company's earnings due to its effect on fee income earned on prepayment and refinancing activities, along with liquidity levels the Company will experience to fund new investments or ongoing operations.

As a federally-chartered savings bank, the Bank is required to monitor changes in its NPV, which is the difference between the estimated market value of its assets and liabilities. In addition, the Bank monitors its NPV ratio, which is the NPV divided by the estimated market value of total assets. The NPV ratio can be viewed as a corollary to the Bank’s capital ratios. To monitor its overall sensitivity to changes in interest rates, the Bank simulates the effect of instantaneous changes in interest rates of up to 200 basis points on its assets and liabilities. Interest rates do and will continue to fluctuate, and the Bank cannot predict future FOMC actions or other factors that will cause interest rates to vary.

Risks related to changes in laws, government regulation and monetary policy.

The Holding Company and the Bank are subject to extensive supervision, regulation and examination by the OTS, as the Bank's chartering agency, and the FDIC, as its deposit insurer. Such regulation limits the manner in which the Holding Company and the Bank conduct business, undertake new investments and activities and obtain financing. This regulation is designed primarily for the protection of the deposit insurance funds and the Bank’s depositors, and not to benefit the Bank or its creditors. The regulatory structure also provides the regulatory authorities extensive discretion in connection with their supervisory and enforcement activities and examination policies, including policies with respect to capital levels, the classification of assets and the establishment of adequate loan loss reserves for regulatory purposes.  For further information regarding the laws and regulations that affect the Holding Company and the Bank, see "Item 1. Business - Regulation - Regulation of Federal Savings Associations," and "Item 1. Business - Regulation - Regulation of Holding Company."

Financial institution regulation has been the subject of significant legislation in recent years, and may be the subject of further significant legislation in the future, none of which is within the control of the Holding Company or the Bank. Significant new laws or changes in, or repeals of, existing laws may cause the Company's results of operations to differ materially. Further, federal monetary policy, particularly as implemented through the OTS, significantly affects credit conditions for the Company, primarily through open market operations in United States government securities, the discount rate for bank borrowings and reserve requirements for liquid assets. A material change in any of these conditions would have a material impact on the Bank, and therefore, on the Company’s results of operations.

Competition from other financial institutions in originating loans and attracting deposits may adversely affect profitability.

The Bank's retail banking and a significant portion of its lending business are concentrated in the NYC metropolitan area. The NYC banking environment is extremely competitive. The Bank’s competition for loans exists principally from savings banks, commercial banks, mortgage banks and insurance companies. The Bank has faced sustained competition for the origination of multifamily residential and commercial real estate loans. Management anticipates that the current level of competition for multifamily residential and commercial real estate loans will continue for the foreseeable future, and this competition may inhibit the Bank’s ability to maintain its current level and pricing of such loans.

The Bank gathers deposits in direct competition with commercial banks, savings banks and brokerage firms, many among the largest in the nation. In addition, it must also compete for deposit monies against the stock markets and mutual funds, especially during periods of strong performance in the equity markets. Over the previous decade, consolidation in the financial services industry, coupled with the emergence of Internet banking, has altered the deposit gathering landscape and may increase competitive pressures on the Bank.

Item 1B.  Unresolved Staff Comments

Not applicable.

Item 2.  Properties

The headquarters of both the Holding Company and the Bank are located at 209 Havemeyer Street, Brooklyn, New York  11211.  The headquarters building is fully owned by the Bank.  The Bank conducts its business through twenty-one full-service retail banking offices located throughout Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx and Nassau County, New York.

Item 3.  Legal Proceedings

In the ordinary course of business, the Company is routinely named as a defendant in or party to various pending or threatened legal actions or proceedings.  Certain of these matters may seek substantial monetary damages.  In the opinion of management, the Company is involved in no actions or proceedings that will have a material adverse impact on its financial condition and results of operations.

Item 4.  Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

None.

PART II

Item 5.  Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

The Holding Company's common stock is traded on the Nasdaq National Market and quoted under the symbol "DCOM."  Prior to June 15, 1998, the Holding Company's common stock was quoted under the symbol "DIME."
 
The following table indicates the high and low sales price for the Holding Company's common stock, and dividends declared, during the periods indicated.  The Holding Company's common stock began trading on June 26, 1996, the date of the initial public offering.
 

 
Twelve Months Ended
December 31, 2007
 
Twelve Months Ended
December 31, 2006
 
 
Quarter Ended
 
Dividends
Declared
High
Sales
Price
Low
Sales
Price
 
 
Dividends
Declared
High
Sales
Price
Low
Sales
Price
March 31st
$0.14
$14.29
$12.21
 
$0.14
$15.55
$13.46
June 30th
0.14
14.00
12.52
 
0.14
14.58
13.49
September 30th
0.14
15.99
10.70
 
0.14
14.89
13.39
December 31st
0.14
15.56
11.99
 
0.14
14.80
13.66

On December 31, 2007, the final trading date in the fiscal year, the Holding Company's common stock closed at $12.77.
 
Management estimates that the Holding Company had approximately 4,600 shareholders of record as of March 1, 2008, including persons or entities holding stock in nominee or street name through various brokers and banks. There were 33,909,902 shares of Holding Company common stock outstanding at December 31, 2007.
 
On August 21, 2001, the Holding Company paid a 50% common stock dividend to all shareholders of record as of July 31, 2001.  On April 24, 2002, the Holding Company paid a 50% common stock dividend to all shareholders of record as of April 1, 2002.  On March 16, 2004, the Holding Company paid a 50% common stock dividend to all shareholders of record as of March 1, 2004.  Each of these dividends had the effect of a three-for-two stock split.
 
During the year ended December 31, 2007, the Holding Company paid cash dividends totaling $19.0 million, representing $0.56 per outstanding common share.  During the year ended December 31, 2006, the Holding Company paid cash dividends totaling $19.7 million, representing $0.56 per outstanding common share.
 
On January 17, 2008, the Board of Directors declared a cash dividend of $0.14 per common share to all shareholders of record as of January 31, 2008.  This dividend was paid on February 15, 2008.
 
The Holding Company is subject to the requirements of Delaware law, which generally limits dividends to an amount equal to the excess of net assets (i.e., the amount by which total assets exceed total liabilities) over statutory capital, or if no such excess exists, to net profits for the current and/or immediately preceding fiscal year.
 
As the principal asset of the Holding Company, the Bank could be called upon to provide funds for the Holding Company's payment of dividends  (See "Item 1 – Business - Regulation – Regulation of Federal Savings Associations – Limitation on Capital Distributions").  (See also Notes to the Company's Audited Consolidated Financial Statements for a discussion of limitations on distributions from the Bank to the Holding Company).
 
In April 2000, the Holding Company issued $25.0 million in subordinated notes payable, with a stated annual coupon rate of 9.25%. Pursuant to the provisions of the notes, the Holding Company is required to first satisfy the interest obligation on the notes, which approximates $2.4 million annually, prior to the authorization and payment of common stock cash dividends.  Management of the Holding Company does not believe that this requirement will materially affect its ability to pay dividends to its common shareholders.
 
In March 2004, the Holding Company issued $72.2 million in trust preferred debt, with a stated annual coupon rate of 7.0%.  Pursuant to the provisions of the debt, the Holding Company is required to first satisfy the interest obligation on the debt, which approximates $5.1 million annually, prior to the authorization and payment of common stock cash dividends.  Management of the Holding Company does not believe that this requirement will materially affect its ability to pay dividends to its common shareholders.
 
During the three months ended December 31, 2007, the Holding Company purchased 311,102 shares of its common stock into treasury.  These repurchases were made under the Company's Twelfth Stock Repurchase Program, which was publicly announced on June 21, 2007.

F-59

 
 

 


A summary of the shares repurchased by month is as follows:

 
 
 
Period
 
Total Number
Shares Purchased
 
Average
Price Paid  Per Share
 
Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Programs
 
Maximum Number of Shares that May Yet be Purchased Under the Programs
October 2007
  55,002   
 
$13.73
 
  55,002   
 
1,431,649
November 2007
  215,100   
 
13.09
 
  215,100   
 
1,216,549
December 2007
  41,000   
 
13.32
 
  41,000   
 
1,175,549

Performance Graph

Pursuant to regulations of the SEC, the graph below compares the Company's stock performance with that of the total return for the U.S. Nasdaq Stock Market and an index of all thrift stocks as reported by SNL Securities L.C. from January 1, 2003 through December 31, 2007.  The graph assumes the reinvestment of dividends in additional shares of the same class of equity securities as those listed below.
 
 


   
Period Ending December 31,
 
Index
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
Dime Community Bancshares, Inc.
100.00
164.91
148.67
125.75
125.36
119.27
NASDAQ Composite
100.00
150.01
162.89
165.13
180.85
198.60
SNL Thrift Index
100.00
141.57
157.73
163.29
190.35
114.19


F-59

 
 

 


Item 6.  Selected Financial Data

Financial Highlights
(Dollars in Thousands, except per share data)
The consolidated financial and other data of the Company as of and for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004 and 2003 set forth below is derived in part from, and should be read in conjunction with, the Company's audited Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes thereto.  Amounts as of and for the years ended December 31, 2006, 2005, 2004 and 2003 have been reclassified to conform to the December 31, 2007 presentation.

 
At or for the Year Ended December 31,
 
2007
2006
2005
2004
2003
Selected Financial Condition Data:
         
Total assets
$3,501,175
$3,173,377
$3,126,226
$3,377,266
$2,971,661
Loans and loans held for sale (net of deferred costs or fees
   and the allowance for loans losses)
 
2,861,638
 
2,688,159
 
2,596,310
 
2,486,262
 
2,177,622
MBS
162,764
154,437
193,453
519,885
462,737
Investment securities (including FHLBNY capital stock)
73,204
61,078
74,750
80,750
64,517
Federal funds sold and other short-term investments
128,014
78,752
60,014
103,291
95,286
Goodwill
55,638
55,638
55,638
55,638
55,638
Deposits
2,179,998
2,008,532
1,914,772
2,210,049
2,041,678
Borrowings
958,745
788,900
834,120
809,249
571,675
Stockholders' equity
268,852
290,631
291,713
281,721
283,919
Tangible Stockholders' equity
217,238
241,829
239,169
229,013
228,026
Selected Operating Data:
         
Interest income
$182,160
$170,810
$169,712
$173,758
$184,849
Interest expense
111,147
93,340
77,341
67,776
71,063
Net interest income
71,013
77,470
92,371
105,982
113,786
Provision for loan losses
240
240
340
280
288
Net interest income after provision for loan losses
70,773
77,230
92,031
105,702
113,498
Non-interest income
10,420
12,390
5,151
10,376
9,388
Non-interest expense
45,502
41,976
40,742
42,407
40,809
Income before income tax
35,691
47,644
56,440
73,671
82,077
Income tax expense
13,248
17,052
20,230
27,449
30,801
Net income
$22,443
$30,592
$36,210
$46,222
$51,276


F-59

 
 

 


 
At or for the Year Ended December 31,
 
2007
2006
2005
2004
2003
SELECTED FINANCIAL RATIOS AND OTHER DATA (1):
         
   Return on average assets
0.69%
0.98%
1.11%
1.38%
1.67%
   Return on average stockholders' equity
8.11   
10.43   
12.65   
16.76   
18.76   
   Stockholders' equity to total assets at end of period
7.68   
9.16   
9.33   
8.34   
9.55   
   Tangible equity to tangible assets at end of period
6.29   
7.74   
7.78   
6.88   
7.82   
   Loans to deposits at end of period
131.97   
134.61   
136.42   
113.20   
107.39   
   Loans to interest-earning assets at end of period
88.77   
90.18   
88.82   
78.04   
77.89   
   Net interest spread (2)
1.88   
2.19   
2.66   
3.09   
3.62   
   Net interest margin (3)
2.29   
2.60   
2.96   
3.32   
3.90   
   Average interest-earning assets to average interest-bearing liabilities
111.48   
113.07   
111.88   
110.79   
111.60   
   Non-interest expense to average assets
1.39   
1.34   
1.24   
1.27   
1.33   
   Core non-interest expense to average assets (4)
1.39   
1.34   
1.24   
1.24   
1.30   
   Efficiency ratio (5)
56.40   
48.36   
40.03   
36.67   
33.05   
   Core efficiency ratio (4) (5)
56.40   
48.36   
39.98   
35.96   
32.38   
   Effective tax rate
37.12   
35.79   
35.84   
37.26   
37.53   
   Dividend payout ratio
83.58   
64.37   
54.90   
42.97   
30.10   
Per Share Data:
         
   Diluted earnings per share
$0.67   
$0.87   
$1.02   
$1.28   
$1.37   
   Cash dividends paid per share
0.56   
0.56   
0.56   
0.55   
0.41   
   Book value per share
7.93   
7.97   
7.89   
7.58   
7.45   
   Tangible book value per share
6.41   
6.63   
6.47   
6.16   
5.98   
Asset Quality Ratios and Other Data(1):
         
   Net charge-offs
$9   
$27   
$45   
$133   
$29   
   Total non-performing loans
2,856   
3,606   
958   
1,459   
525   
   OREO, net
-     
-     
-     
-     
-     
   Non-performing loans to total loans
0.10%
0.13%
0.04%
0.06%
0.02%
   Non-performing loans and OREO to total assets
0.08   
0.11   
0.03   
0.04   
0.02   
Allowance for Loan Losses to:
         
   Non-performing loans
538.76%
430.23%
1,647.70%
1,065.32%
2,860.57%
   Total loans (6)
0.53  
0.57  
0.60  
0.62  
0.68   
Regulatory Capital Ratios: (Bank only) (1)
         
   Tangible capital
7.88%
9.05%
9.84%
7.88%
7.97%
   Leverage capital
7.88   
9.05   
9.84   
7.88   
7.97   
   Total risk-based capital
11.92   
12.61   
14.30   
12.83   
15.03   
Earnings to Fixed Charges Ratios (7) (8):
         
   Including interest on deposits
1.32x   
1.51x   
1.73x   
2.09x   
2.15x   
   Excluding interest on deposits
1.99    
2.30    
2.56    
3.46    
3.50   
Full Service Branches
21    
21    
20    
20    
20   

(1)  
With the exception of end of period ratios, all ratios are based on average daily balances during the indicated periods. Asset Quality Ratios and Regulatory Capital Ratios are end of period ratios.
 
(2)
The net interest spread represents the difference between the weighted-average yield on interest-earning assets and the weighted-average cost of interest-bearing liabilities.
 
(3)           The net interest margin represents net interest income as a percentage of average interest-earning assets.
 
(4)
In calculating the core non-interest expense to average assets and core efficiency ratios, amortization expense related to the core deposit intangible is excluded from non-interest expense.
 
(5)
The efficiency ratio represents non-interest expense as a percentage of the sum of net interest income and non-interest income, excluding any gains or losses on sales of assets.
 
(6)           Total loans represents loans, net, plus the allowance for loan losses.
 
(7)
For purposes of computing the ratios of earnings to fixed charges, earnings represent income before taxes, extraordinary items and the cumulative effect of accounting changes plus fixed charges.  Fixed charges represent total interest expense, including and excluding interest on deposits.
 
 
(8) Interest on unrecognized tax benefits totaling $509,000 is included in the calculation of fixed charges for the year ended December 31, 2007.

F-59

 
 

 

Item 7.  Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Executive Summary

The Holding Company’s primary business is the operation of the Bank.  The Company’s consolidated results of operations are dependent primarily on net interest income, which is the difference between the interest income earned on interest-earning assets, such as loans and securities, and the interest expense paid on interest-bearing liabilities, such as deposits and borrowings.  The Bank additionally generates non-interest income such as service charges and other fees, as well as income associated with Bank Owned Life Insurance.  Non-interest expense primarily consists of employee compensation and benefits, federal deposit insurance premiums, data processing costs, occupancy and equipment expenses, marketing expenses and other operating expenses.  The Company’s consolidated results of operations are also significantly affected by general economic and competitive conditions (particularly fluctuations in market interest rates), government policies, changes in accounting standards and actions of regulatory agencies.

The Bank’s primary strategy is generally to increase its household and deposit market shares in the communities that it serves.  During much of 2005, 2006 and 2007, however, growth was restricted as a result of the interest rate environment, which management has deemed unfavorable for significant balance sheet growth.  The Bank also generally seeks to increase its product and service utilization for each individual depositor.  In addition, the Bank’s primary strategy includes the origination of, and investment in, mortgage loans, with an emphasis on multifamily residential and commercial real estate loans.

The Company believes that multifamily residential and commercial real estate loans provide advantages as investment assets.  Initially, they offer a higher yield than investment securities of comparable maturities or terms to repricing.  In addition, origination and processing costs for the Bank’s multifamily residential and commercial real estate loans are lower per thousand dollars of originations than comparable one-to four-family loan costs.  Further, the Bank’s market area has generally provided a stable flow of new and refinanced multifamily residential and commercial real estate loan originations.  In order to address the credit risk associated with multifamily residential and commercial real estate lending, the Bank has developed underwriting standards that it believes are reliable in order to maintain consistent credit quality for its loans.

The Bank also strives to provide a stable source of liquidity and earnings through the purchase of investment grade securities; seeks to maintain the asset quality of its loans and other investments; and uses appropriate portfolio and asset/liability management techniques in an effort to manage the effects of interest rate volatility on its profitability and capital.

The net interest spread and net interest margin declined during the year ended December 31, 2007.  These declines were attributable to increases in short-term interest rates during the first six months of  December 31, 2007.  This condition resulted in a greater increase in the average cost of interest bearing liabilities than the yield on interest earning assets during the year.

 Critical Accounting Policies

Various elements of the Company’s accounting policies are inherently subject to estimation techniques, valuation assumptions and other subjective assessments. The Company’s policies with respect to the methodologies it uses to determine the allowance for loan losses, the valuation of MSR, asset impairments (including the valuation of goodwill and other than temporary declines in the valuation of securities), the recognition of deferred tax assets and unrecognized tax positions, the recognition of loan income and accounting for defined benefit plans are its most critical accounting policies because they are important to the presentation of the Company’s financial condition and results of operations, involve a significant degree of complexity and require management to make difficult and subjective judgments which often necessitate assumptions or estimates about highly uncertain matters. The use of different judgments, assumptions and estimates could result in material variations in the Company's results of operations or financial condition.

The following are descriptions of the Company's critical accounting policies and explanations of the methods and assumptions underlying their application. These policies and their application are reviewed periodically with the Audit Committees of the Holding Company and Bank.

Allowance for Loan Losses.  GAAP requires the Bank to maintain an appropriate allowance for loan losses.  Management uses available information to estimate losses on loans and believes that the Bank maintains its allowance for loan losses at appropriate levels.  Adjustments may be necessary, however, if future economic, market or other conditions differ from the current operating environment.

Although the Bank believes it utilizes the most reliable information available, the level of the allowance for loan losses remains an estimate subject to significant judgment.  These evaluations are inherently subjective because, although based upon objective data, it is management's interpretation of the data that determines the amount of the appropriate allowance.  The Company, therefore, periodically reviews the actual performance and charge-offs of its portfolio and compares them to the previously determined allowance coverage percentages.  In doing so, the Company evaluates the impact that the variables discussed below may have on the portfolio to determine whether or not changes should be made to the assumptions and analyses.

               The Bank's loan loss reserve methodology consists of several components, including a review of the two elements of its loan portfolio: problem loans (i.e., classified loans, non-performing loans and impaired loans under Amended SFAS 114") and performing loans.  The Bank applied the process of determining the allowance for loan losses consistently throughout the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006.

Performing Loans

At December 31, 2007, the majority of the allowance for loan losses was allocated to performing loans, which represented the overwhelming majority of the Bank's loan portfolio.  Performing loans are reviewed at least quarterly based upon the premise that there are losses inherent within the loan portfolio that have not been identified as of the review date.  The Bank thus calculates an allowance for loan losses related to its performing loans by deriving an expected loan loss percentage and applying it to its performing loans.  In deriving the expected loan loss percentage, the Bank generally considers, among others, the following criteria: the Bank's historical loss experience; the age and payment history of the loans (commonly referred to as their "seasoned quality"); the type of loan (i.e., one- to four-family, multifamily residential, commercial real estate, cooperative apartment, construction and land acquisition or consumer); the underwriting history of the loan (i.e., whether it was underwritten by the Bank or a predecessor institution acquired by the Bank and, therefore, originally subjected to different underwriting criteria); both the current condition and recent history of the overall local real estate market (in order to determine the accuracy of utilizing recent historical charge-off data to derive the expected loan loss percentages); the level of, and trend in, non-performing loans; the level and composition of new loan activity; and the existence of geographic loan concentrations (as the overwhelming majority of the Bank's loans are secured by real estate located in the NYC metropolitan area) or specific industry conditions within the portfolio segments.  Since these criteria affect the expected loan loss percentages that are applied to performing loans, changes in any of them may affect the amounts of the allowance and the provision for loan losses.

Problem Loans

OTS regulations and Bank policy require that loans possessing certain weaknesses be classified as Substandard, Doubtful or Loss assets.  Assets that do not expose the Bank to risk sufficient to justify classification in one of these categories, however, which possess potential weaknesses that deserve management's attention, are designated Special Mention.  Loans classified as Special Mention, Substandard or Doubtful are reviewed individually on a quarterly basis by the Bank's Loan Loss Reserve Committee to determine the level of possible loss, if any, that should be provided for within the Bank's allowance for loan losses.

The Bank's policy is to charge-off immediately all balances classified as ''Loss'' and record a reduction of the allowance for loan losses for the full amount of the outstanding loan balance.  The Bank applied this process consistently throughout the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006.

Under the guidance established by Amended SFAS 114, loans determined to be impaired (i.e., loans where its is probable that all contractual amounts due will not be collected in accordance with the terms of the loan; generally, non-performing one- to four-family loans in excess of $417,000 and non-performing and troubled-debt restructured multifamily residential and commercial real estate loans) are evaluated at least quarterly in order to establish impairment, i.e., whether the estimated fair value of the underlying collateral determined based upon an independent appraisal is sufficient to satisfy the existing debt.  For each loan that the Bank determines to be impaired, impairment is measured by the amount that the carrying balance of the loan, including all accrued interest, exceeds the estimated fair value of the collateral.  A specific reserve is established on all impaired loans to the extent of impairment and comprises a portion of the allowance for loan losses.

Non-performing one- to four-family loans of $417,000 or less are not deemed impaired, and are classified as Substandard, Doubtful or Loss, and reviewed and reserved for in the manner discussed above for loans of such classification.

See also "Item 1 – Business – Asset Quality."

Valuation of MSR. The cost of mortgage loans sold with servicing rights retained by the Bank is allocated between the loans and the servicing rights based on their estimated fair values at the time of the loan sale. In accordance with GAAP, MSR are carried at the lower of cost or fair value and are amortized in proportion to, and over the period of, anticipated net servicing income.   The Company adopted SFAS No. 156, "Accounting for Servicing of Financial Assets" ("SFAS 156") effective January 1, 2007.  SFAS 156 requires all separately recognized MSR to be initially measured at fair value, if practicable.  The estimated fair value of MSR is determined by calculating the present value of estimated future net servicing cash flows, using estimated prepayment, default, servicing cost and discount rate assumptions.  All estimates and assumptions utilized in the valuation of MSR are derived based upon actual historical results for the Bank, or, in the absence of such data, from historical results for the Bank's peers.

The fair value of MSR is sensitive to changes in assumptions.  Fluctuations in prepayment speed assumptions have the most significant impact on the estimated fair value of MSR.  In the event that loan prepayment activities exceed the assumed amount (generally due to increased loan refinancing), the fair value of MSR would likely decline.  In the event that loan prepayment activities fall below the assumed amount (generally due to a decline in loan refinancing), the fair value of MSR would likely increase.  Any measurement of the value of MSR is limited by the existing conditions and assumptions utilized at a particular point in time, and would not necessarily be appropriate if applied at a different point in time.

Assumptions utilized in measuring the fair value of MSR for the purpose of evaluating impairment additionally include the stratification based on predominant risk characteristics of the underlying loans. Increases in the risk characteristics of the underlying loans from the assumed amounts would result in a decline in the fair value of the MSR.  A valuation allowance is established in the event the recorded value of an individual stratum exceeds its fair value for the full amount of the difference.

Asset Impairment Adjustments.  Certain assets are carried in the Company's consolidated statements of financial condition at fair value or at the lower of cost or fair value.  Management periodically performs analyses to test for impairment of these assets.  Two significant impairment analyses relate to the value of goodwill and other than temporary declines in the value of the Company's securities.  In the event that an impairment of goodwill or an other than temporary decline in the value of the Company's securities is determined to exist, it is recognized as a charge to earnings.

Goodwill is accounted for in accordance with SFAS No. 142, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets" ("SFAS 142").  SFAS 142 eliminates amortization of goodwill and instead requires performance of an annual impairment test at the reporting unit level.  As of December 31, 2007, the Company had goodwill totaling $55.6 million.

The Company identified a single reporting unit for purposes of its goodwill impairment testing.  The impairment test is therefore performed on a consolidated basis and compares the Holding Company's market capitalization (reporting unit fair value) to its outstanding equity (reporting unit carrying value).  The Company utilizes the closing price of the Holding Company's common stock as reported on the Nasdaq National Market on the date of the impairment test in order to compute market capitalization.  The Company has designated the last day of its fiscal year as the annual date for impairment testing. The Company performed its annual impairment test as of December 31, 2007 and concluded that no potential impairment of goodwill existed since the fair value of the Company's reporting unit exceeded its carrying value.  No events occurred, nor circumstances changed, subsequent to December 31, 2007 that would reduce the fair value of the Company's reporting unit below its carrying value.  Such events or changes in circumstances would require an immediate impairment test to be performed in accordance with SFAS 142.  Differences in the identification of reporting units or the use of valuation techniques can result in materially different evaluations of impairment.

Available-for-sale debt and equity securities that have readily determinable fair values are carried at fair value.  All of the Company's available for sale securities at December 31, 2007 had readily determinable fair values, and such fair values were based on published or securities dealers' market values.

Debt securities are classified as held-to-maturity, and carried at amortized cost, only if the Company has a positive intent and ability to hold them to maturity.  Unrealized holding gains or losses on debt securities classified as held-to-maturity are disclosed, but are not recognized in the Company's consolidated statements of financial condition or results of operations.

Debt securities that are not classified as held-to-maturity, along with all equity securities, are classified as either securities available-for-sale or trading securities.  The Company owned no securities classified as trading securities during the year ended December 31, 2007.

The Company conducts a periodic review and evaluation of its securities portfolio, taking into account the severity and duration of each unrealized loss, as well as management's intent and ability to hold the security until the unrealized loss is substantially eliminated, in order to determine if a decline in market value of any security below its carrying value is either temporary or other than temporary.  All unrealized losses on debt and equity securities available-for-sale that are deemed temporary are excluded from net income and reported net of income taxes as other comprehensive income or loss.  All unrealized losses that are deemed other than temporary are recognized immediately as a reduction of the carrying amount of the security, with a charge recorded in the Company's consolidated statements of operations.  For the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006, there were no other than temporary impairments in the securities portfolio.  Unrealized holding gains on securities totaled $733,000 and $323,000 at December 31, 2007 and December 31, 2006, respectively.

Recognition of Deferred Tax Assets.  Management reviews all deferred tax assets periodically.  Upon such review, in the event that it is more likely than not that the deferred tax asset will not be fully realized, a valuation allowance is recognized against the deferred tax asset in the full amount that is deemed more likely than not will not be realized.

Uncertain Tax Positions – The Company performs two levels of evaluation for all uncertain tax positions. Initially, a determination is made as to whether it is more likely than not that a tax position will be sustained upon examination, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits of the position. In conducting this evaluation, management is required to presume that the position will be examined by the appropriate taxing authority possessing full knowledge of all relevant information. The second level of evaluation is the measurement of a tax position that satisfies the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold.  This measurement is performed in order to determine the amount of benefit to recognize in the financial statements. The tax position is measured at the largest amount of benefit that is greater than 50 percent likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement.  In making its evaluation, management reviews applicable tax rulings and other advice provided by reputable tax professionals.

Loan Income Recognition.  Interest income on loans is recorded using the level yield method.  Loan origination fees and certain direct loan origination costs are deferred and amortized as yield adjustments over the contractual loan terms.

Accrual of interest is discontinued on loans identified as impaired (See Item 1. – Business – Asset Quality for a definition of impaired) and past due 90 days.  Any interest accrued to income in the year when interest accruals are discontinued is reversed.  Loans are returned to accrual status once the doubt concerning collectibility has been removed and the borrower has demonstrated performance in accordance with the loan terms and conditions for a minimum of twelve consecutive months.  Payments on nonaccrual loans are generally applied to principal.

Accounting for Defined Benefit Plans – Defined benefit plans are accounted for in accordance with SFAS No. 158 "Employers' Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans - an amendment of FASB Statements No. 87, 88, 106, and 132(R)" ("SFAS 158").  SFAS 158 requires an employer sponsoring a single employer defined benefit plan to do the following: (1) recognize the funded status of a benefit plan in its statements of financial condition, measured as the difference between plan assets at fair value (with limited exceptions) and the benefit obligation.  The Company utilizes the services of trained actuaries employed at an independent benefits plan administration company in order to measure the funded status of its defined benefit plans.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

The Bank's primary sources of funding for its lending and investment activities include deposits, loan and MBS payments, investment security maturities and redemptions, advances from the FHLBNY, and REPOs entered into with various financial institutions, including the FHLBNY.  The Bank also sells selected multifamily residential and mixed use loans to the FNMA, and long-term, one- to four-family residential real estate loans to either FNMA or other private sector secondary market purchasers.  The Company may additionally issue debt under appropriate circumstances.  Although maturities and scheduled amortization of loans and investments are predictable sources of funds, deposits flows and prepayments on mortgage loans and MBS are influenced by interest rates, economic conditions and competition.

The Bank gathers deposits in direct competition with commercial banks, savings banks and brokerage firms, many among the largest in the nation.  It must additionally compete for deposit monies against the stock and bond markets, especially during periods of strong performance in those arenas.  The Bank's deposit flows are affected primarily by the pricing and marketing of its deposit products compared to its competitors, as well as the market performance of depositor investment alternatives such as the U.S. bond or equity markets.  To the extent that the Bank is responsive to general market increases or declines in interest rates, its deposit flows should not be materially impacted, however, favorable performance of the equity or bond markets could adversely impact the Bank’s deposit flows.

Deposits increased $171.5 million during the year ended December 31, 2007, and $93.8 million during the year ended December 31, 2006, as for the majority of 2007, management elected to seek deposit growth as its primary source of funding.  During the year ended December 31, 2007, the Company experienced an increase of $12.4 million in CDs and $164.2 in money market accounts, due primarily to successful promotional campaigns.   During the year ended December 31, 2006, the Company experienced an increase of $86.1 million in CDs and $49.6 in money market accounts, due primarily to successful promotional campaigns.

During the year ended December 31, 2007, principal repayments totaled $324.4 million on real estate loans and $33.3 million on MBS.  During the year ended December 31, 2006, principal repayments totaled $326.8 million on real estate loans and $39.4 million on MBS.  The decrease in principal repayments on loans and MBS resulted from a reduction in borrower refinance activities associated with mortgage-related assets as a result of increases in interest rates during the period July 2005 through September 2006. The Company does not presently believe that its future levels of principal repayments will be materially impacted by problems currently being experienced in the residential mortgage market. See "Item 1 – Business - Asset Quality" for a further discussion of the Bank's asset quality.

Since December 2002, the Bank has originated and sold multifamily residential mortgage loans in the secondary market to FNMA while retaining servicing and generating fee income while it services the loans. The Bank underwrites these loans using its customary underwriting standards, funds the loans, and sells them to FNMA at agreed upon pricing.  Typically, the Bank seeks to sell loans with terms to maturity or repricing in excess of seven years from the origination date since it does not desire to retain such loans in portfolio as a result of the heightened interest rate risk they possess.  Under the terms of the sales program, the Bank retains a portion of the associated credit risk.  Once established, such amount continues to increase as long as the Bank continues to sell loans to FNMA under the program. The Bank retains this exposure until the portfolio of loans sold to FNMA is satisfied in its entirety or the Bank funds claims by FNMA for the maximum loss exposure.  During the year ended December 31, 2007 and 2006, the Bank sold FNMA $71.4 million and $145.4 million of loans, respectively, pursuant to this program.   In addition, the Bank sold a participation in one multifamily loan totaling $6.1 million to a third party financial institution during the year ended December 31, 2007.

During the year ended December 31, 2007, the Company increased its REPO borrowings by $34.8 million and FHLBNY advances by $135.0 million, respectively.  The REPO borrowings were added in order to fund real estate loan originations and ongoing Bank operations. The majority of the additional FHLBNY advances were undertaken late in 2007 when favorable funding pricing available through wholesale borrowings from highly reputable financial institutions made that form of funding more desirable than promotional deposits.  These borrowings are expected to contribute to anticipated balance sheet growth during the year ending December 31, 2008.

During the year ended December 31, 2006, borrowings declined by $45.2 million on a net basis, as the Company utilized deposit inflows and liquidity from its investment and MBS portfolios to fund loan growth.  Due in part to the growth in deposit funding during the year ended December 31, 2006, the Company was able to reduce its overall level of borrowings in that year, which, because the interest rates associated with borrowings exceeded those paid on deposits at that time, helped minimize the increase in the average cost of its interest bearing liabilities while short-term interest rates continued to rise.

During the year ended December 31, 2006, the Company engaged in two separate borrowing restructuring transactions.  In the initial transaction, the Company restructured $145.0 million of its borrowings in order to lower their average cost.  Borrowings with a weighted average cost of 4.46% and a weighted average term to maturity of one year were replaced with borrowings having a weighted average cost of 4.17% and a final maturity of ten years, callable after year one.  Since portions of the original borrowings were satisfied at a discount, the Company recorded a non-recurring reduction of $43,200 in interest expense related to the prepayment.

In the second transaction, the Company restructured $170.0 million of wholesale borrowings.  Under this restructuring, $120.0 million of REPOs and $50.0 million in FHLBNY advances were prepaid and replaced.   The prepaid borrowings had a weighted average interest rate of 4.53%, and were replaced with a combination of REPOs and FHLBNY advances having an initial weighted average interest rate of 3.79%. The replacement FHLBNY advances have a 4.4% fixed rate of interest, a final maturity of ten years and are callable by the FHLBNY after a Lockout Period of one, two or three years.  The replacement REPOs have a ten-year maturity and a Lockout Period of either one or two years.  During the Lockout Period, the REPOs are variable rate (indexed to 3-month LIBOR), and have embedded interest rate caps and floors that ensure their reset interest rate will not exceed their initial interest rate.  After the Lockout Period, if not called by the lender, the REPOs convert to an average fixed rate of 4.90%.  The Company recorded a non-recurring reduction of $764,000 in interest expense related to the prepayment.

In the event that the Bank should require funds beyond its ability to generate them internally, an additional source of funds is available through use of its borrowing line at the FHLBNY.  At December 31, 2007, the Bank had an additional potential borrowing capacity of $332.8 million available provided it owned the minimum required level of FHLBNY common stock (i.e., 4.5% of its outstanding FHLBNY borrowings).

The Bank is subject to minimum regulatory capital requirements imposed by the OTS, which, as a general matter, are based on the amount and composition of an institution's assets. At December 31, 2007, the Bank was in compliance with all applicable regulatory capital requirements and was considered "well-capitalized" for all regulatory purposes.

The Bank utilizes its liquidity and capital resources primarily to fund the origination of real estate loans and the purchase of mortgage-backed and other securities.  During the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006, real estate loan originations totaled $574.5 million and $563.2 million, respectively.  Purchases of investment securities (excluding short-term investments and federal funds sold) and MBS totaled $52.2 million during the year ended December 31, 2007 compared to $4.0 million during the year ended December 31, 2006.  The increase resulted from reduced levels of securities purchases during 2006 reflecting lower levels of liquidity experienced during the period July 2005 through September 2006 (as a result of deposit outflows), that limited the funds available for investment purchases.

During the year ended December 31, 2007, the Holding Company repurchased 2,298,726 shares of its common stock into treasury.  All shares repurchased were recorded at the acquisition cost, which totaled $29.6 million during the period. As of December 31, 2007, up to 1,686,610 shares remained available for purchase under authorized share purchase programs.  Based upon the $12.77 per share closing price of its common stock as of December 31, 2007, the Holding Company would utilize $15.0 million in order to purchase all of the remaining authorized shares.  For the Holding Company to complete these share purchases, it would likely require dividend distributions from the Bank.

Contractual Obligations

The Bank has outstanding at any time, a significant number of borrowings in the form of FHLBNY advances or REPOS.  The Holding Company also has an outstanding $25.0 million non-callable subordinated note payable due to mature in 2010, and $72.2 million of trust preferred borrowings from third parties due to mature in April 2034, which is callable at any time after April 2009.

The Bank is obligated under leases for certain rental payments due on its branches and equipment.  A summary of borrowings and lease obligations at December 31, 2007 is as follows:

 
Payments Due By Period
 
 
Contractual Obligations
 
Less than One Year
 
One Year to Three Years
Over Three Years to Five Years
 
Over Five Years
 
 
 
Total
 
(Dollars in thousands)
CDs
$968,128
$99,928
$9,021
$10
 
$1,077,087
Weighted average interest rate of CD's (1)
4.52%
4.45%
3.43%
3.10%
 
4.50%
Borrowings
$90,080
$281,000
$257,500
$330,165
 
$958,745
Weighted average interest rate of borrowings
4.62%
4.92%
3.68%
4.74%
 
4.50%
Operating lease obligations
$1,858
$4,155
$3,810
$19,130
 
$28,953
Minimum data processing system obligation
$752
$1,505
$251
­-   
 
$2,508
(1) The weighted average cost of CD's, inclusive of their contractual compounding of interest, was 4.61% at December 31, 2007.

The Company had a reserve recorded related to unrecognized income tax benefits totaling $1.8 million at December 31, 2007.   Due to the uncertainty of the amounts to be ultimately paid as well as the timing of such payments, all liabilities pursuant to FASB Interpretation No. 48, "Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes" ("FIN 48") that have not been paid have been excluded from the tabular disclosure of contractual obligations.  The Company is currently under audit by taxing jurisdictions.  As a result, it is reasonably possible that an amount ranging from 30% to 50% of the unrecognized tax benefits could be recognized within the next twelve months.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

The Bank implemented a program in December 2002 to originate and sell multifamily residential mortgage loans in the secondary market to FNMA while retaining servicing.  The Bank is required to retain a recourse obligation on all loans sold under this program, which will remain in effect until either the entire portfolio of loans sold to FNMA is satisfied or the Bank funds claims by FNMA for the full balance of the recourse obligation.

In addition, as part of its loan origination business, the Bank has outstanding commitments to extend credit to third parties, which are subject to strict credit control assessments.  Since many of these loan commitments expire prior to funding, in whole or in part, the contract amounts are not estimates of future cash flows.  The following table presents off-balance sheet arrangements as of December 31, 2007:

 
 
Less than One Year
 
One Year to Three Years
Over Three Years to Five Years
 
Over Five Years
 
 
Total
 
(Dollars in thousands)
Credit Commitments:
           
   Available lines of credit
$67,704
$- 
$- 
$-
 
$67,704
   Other loan commitments
102,397
-
 
102,397
Recourse obligation on loans sold to FNMA
20,409
-
 
20,409
Total Credit Commitments
$190,510
$- 
$- 
$-
 
$190,510

Analysis of Net Interest Income

The Company's profitability, like that of most banking institutions, is dependent primarily upon net interest income, which is the difference between interest income on interest-earnings assets, such as loans and securities, and interest expense on interest-bearing liabilities, such as deposits or borrowings.  Net interest income depends on the relative amounts of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities, and the interest rate earned or paid on them.  The following tables set forth certain information relating to the Company's consolidated statements of operations for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005, and reflect the average yield on interest-earning assets and average cost of interest-bearing liabilities for the periods indicated. Such yields and costs are derived by dividing interest income or expense by the average balance of interest-earning assets or interest-bearing liabilities, respectively, for the periods indicated. Average balances are derived from daily balances. The yields and costs include fees that are considered adjustments to yields.  All material changes in average balances and interest income or expense are discussed in the sections entitled "Interest Income" and "Interest Expense" in the comparison of operating results commencing on page F-50.

F-59

 
 

 


 
For the Year Ended December 31,
   
2007
     
2006
     
2005
 
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
     
Average
     
Average
     
Average
 
Average
 
Yield/
 
Average
 
Yield/
 
Average
 
Yield/
 
Balance
Interest
Cost
 
Balance
Interest
Cost
 
Balance
Interest
Cost
Assets:
                     
  Interest-earning assets:
                     
    Real estate loans  (1)
$2,775,397
$165,221
5.95%
 
$2,649,623
$155,510
5.87%
 
$2,533,205
$148,442
5.86%
    Other loans
1,823
178
9.77   
 
1,978
190
9.61   
 
2,369
214
9.03   
    Investment securities
26,683
2,011
7.54   
 
32,609
2,276
6.98   
 
68,315
2,602
3.81   
    MBS
155,462
6,344
4.08   
 
177,490
6,850
3.86   
 
324,002
11,699
3.61   
    Other
146,094
8,406
5.75   
 
116,447
5,984
5.14   
 
197,891
6,755
3.41   
      Total interest-earning assets
3,105,459
$182,160
5.87   
 
2,978,147
170,810
5.74%
 
3,125,782
169,712
5.43%
     Non-interest earning assets
157,559
     
148,493
     
150,765
   
Total assets
3,263,018
     
$3,126,640
     
$3,276,547
   
                       
Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity:
                     
  Interest-bearing liabilities:
                     
    NOW, Super Now accounts
$44,406
$833
1.88%
 
$35,475
$361
1.02%
 
$40,625
$408
1.00%
    Money Market accounts
630,375
24,238
3.85   
 
463,885
12,038
2.60   
 
611,673
9,773
1.60   
    Savings accounts
287,420
1,631
0.57   
 
317,572
1,866
0.59   
 
351,827
1,943
0.55   
    CDs
1,072,678
49,059
4.57   
 
1,019,562
42,394
4.16   
 
982,030
28,934
2.95   
    Borrowed Funds
750,822
35,386
4.71   
 
797,318
36,681
4.60   
 
807,800
36,283
4.49   
      Total interest-bearing liabilities
2,785,701
$111,147
3.99   
 
2,633,812
93,340
3.54%
 
2,793,955
$77,341
2.77%
  Checking accounts
93,470
     
95,067
     
94,541
   
  Other non-interest-bearing liabilities
107,260
     
104,562
     
101,889
   
      Total liabilities
2,986,431
     
2,833,441
     
2,990,385
   
  Stockholders' equity
276,587
     
293,199
     
286,162
   
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
3,263,018
     
$3,126,640
     
$3,276,547
   
Net interest spread (2)
   
1.88%
     
2.19%
     
2.66%
Net interest income/ interest margin (3)
 
$71,013
2.29%
   
$77,470
2.60%
   
$92,371
2.96%
Net interest-earning assets
319,758
     
$344,335
     
$331,827
   
Ratio of interest-earning assets
   to interest-bearing liabilities
   
111.48%
     
 
113.07%
     
 
111.88%
 
(1)       In computing the average balance of real estate loans, non-performing loans have been included.  Interest income includes loan fees as defined under SFAS 91, "Accounting for Nonrefundable Fees and Costs Associated with Originating or Acquiring Loans and Initial Direct Costs of Leases—an amendment of FASB Statements No. 13, 60, and 65 and a rescission of FASB Statement No. 17."  Interest income also includes applicable prepayment fees and late charges under SFAS  91.
 
(2)       Net interest spread represents the difference between the average yield on interest-earning assets and the average cost of interest-bearing liabilities.
 
(3)       The interest margin represents net interest income as a percentage of average interest-earning assets.

F-59

 
 

 


Rate/Volume Analysis.  The following table represents the extent to which variations in interest rates and the volume of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities have affected interest income and interest expense during the periods indicated. Information is provided in each category with respect to: (i) variances attributable to fluctuations in volume (change in volume multiplied by prior rate), (ii) variances attributable to rate (changes in rate multiplied by prior volume), and (iii) the net change. Variances attributable to the combined impact of volume and rate have been allocated proportionately to the changes due to volume and the changes due to rate.

 
Year Ended December 31, 2007
Compared to
Year Ended December 31, 2006
Increase/ (Decrease) Due to
 
Year Ended December 31, 2006
Compared to
Year Ended December 31, 2005
Increase/ (Decrease) Due to
 
Year Ended December 31, 2005
Compared to
Year Ended December 31, 2004
Increase/ (Decrease) Due to
 
Volume
 Rate
Total
 
Volume
 Rate
Total
 
Volume
 Rate
Total
  Interest-earning assets:
(Dollars in Thousands)
    Real Estate Loans
$6,828 
$2,883 
$9,711 
 
$6,818 
$250 
$7,068 
 
$8,440 
$(8,842)
$(402)
    Other loans
(12)
-  
(12)
 
(37)
13 
(24)
 
(79)
45 
(34)
    Investment securities
(357)
92 
(265)
 
(1,927)
1,601 
(326)
 
783 
74 
857 
    MBS
(719)
213 
(506)
 
(5,475)
626 
(4,849)
 
(10,336)
944 
(9,392)
    Other
1,516 
906 
2,422 
 
(3,487)
2,716 
(771)
 
1,650 
3,275 
4,925 
      Total
$7,256 
$4,094 
$11,350 
 
$(4,108)
$5,206 
$1,098 
 
$458 
$(4,504)
$(4,046)
  Interest-bearing liabilities:
                     
    NOW and Super Now accounts
$156 
$316 
$472 
 
$(54)
$7 
($47)
 
$(8)
$6 
$(2)
    Money market accounts
5,547 
6,653 
12,200 
 
(3,107)
5,372 
2,265 
 
(2,970)
998 
(1,972)
    Savings accounts
(160)
(75)
(235)
 
(204)
127 
(77)
 
(77)
82 
    CDs
2,595 
4,070 
6,665
 
1,342 
12,118 
13,460 
 
1,140 
4,014 
5,154 
    Borrowed funds
(1,776)
481 
(1,295)
 
(481)
879 
398 
 
3,529 
2,851 
6,380 
      Total
6,362 
11,445 
17,807 
 
(2,504)
18,503 
15,999 
 
1,614 
7,951 
9,565 
Net change in net interest income
$894 
$(7,351)
$(6,457)
 
$(1,604)
$(13,297)
$(14,901)
 
$(1,156)
$(12,455)
$(13,611)

Comparison of Financial Condition at December 31, 2007 and December 31, 2006

Assets.  Assets totaled $3.50 billion at December 31, 2007, an increase of $327.8 million from total assets of $3.17 billion at December 31, 2006.

Real estate loans increased $173.7 million during the year ended December 31, 2007, due primarily to originations of $574.5 million during the period (as interest rates offered on new loans continued to stimulate origination activity), that were partially offset by amortization of $324.4 million and sales to third parties of $77.6 million.

Cash and due from banks and federal funds sold and other short-term securities increased by $75.4 million and $49.3 million, respectively, during the year ended December 31, 2007, as the Company added FHLBNY advances late in the year ended December 31, 2007, and held the funds in cash and due from banks and federal funds sold and other short-term investments at year-end.  In future periods, these funds are anticipated to be invested in higher-yielding investment securities, MBS and real estate loans to the extent permissible under the Bank's regulations.

Liabilities.  During the year ended December 31, 2007, total liabilities increased $349.6 million, reflecting increases of $171.5 million in deposits, $34.8 million in REPOS and $135.0 million in FHLBNY advances during the period.  (See "Item 7. – Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Liquidity and Capital Resources" for a discussion of the deposit, FHLBNY advances and REPO increases during the period).

Stockholders' Equity.  Stockholders' equity decreased $21.8 million during the year ended December 31, 2007, due to treasury stock repurchases of $29.6 million, cash dividends on the Holding Company's common stock of $19.0 million and a reduction to equity of $1.7 million related to an additional reserve recorded by the Company upon adoption of FASB Interpretation No. 48, "Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes."

Partially offsetting these items were increases to equity during the period resulting from the following: (i) net income of $22.4 million; (ii) $2.0 million related to amortization of the Employee Stock Ownership Plan of Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. and Certain Affiliates (the "ESOP") and restricted stock awards issued under other stock benefit plans; and (iii) $958,000 of cash dividends re-assumed through the liquidation of the Recognition and Retention Plan for Outside Directors, Officers and Employees of Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. ("RRP").  The ESOP and restricted stock awards are initially recorded as reductions in stockholders' equity ("Contra Equity Balances").  As compensation expense is recognized on the ESOP and restricted stock awards, the Contra Equity Balances are reduced in a corresponding amount, resulting in an increase to their respective equity balances.  This increase to equity offsets the decline in the Company's retained earnings related to the periodic recorded ESOP and restricted stock award expenses.

Comparison of Financial Condition at December 31, 2006 and December 31, 2005

Assets.  Assets totaled $3.17 billion at December 31, 2006, a slight increase from total assets of $3.13 billion at December 31, 2005.

Real estate loans increased $91.7 million during the year ended December 31, 2006, due primarily to originations of $563.2 million during the period (as interest rates offered on new loans continued to stimulate origination activity), that were partially offset by amortization of $326.8 million and sales to FNMA of $145.4 million.  During the years ended December 31, 2006 and 2005, real estate loan originations totaled $563.2 million and $574.2 million, respectively.  The average rate on total loan originations during the year ended December 31, 2006 was 6.43%, compared to 5.77% in the year ended December 31, 2005. Real estate loan prepayment and amortization during the year ended December 31, 2006 approximated 12% of the loan portfolio on an annualized basis, compared to 14% during the year ended December 2005.  The decline in prepayment and amortization levels resulted from increases in interest rates from January 2006 to December 2006.  Federal funds sold and other short-term assets increased $18.7 million during the comparative period as cash flows from maturing investment securities and principal repayments on MBS were reinvested in short-term securities and federal funds sold, since the flattened yield curve provided benefits to retaining the funds in short-term investments.

Partially offsetting the increases in real estate loans and federal funds sold and other short-term assets were declines in MBS available-for-sale and investment securities available-for-sale of $39.0 million and $15.3 million, respectively, during the year ended December 31, 2006.  The decline in MBS available-for-sale resulted primarily from principal repayments of $39.4 million. The decrease in investment securities available for sale resulted primarily from maturities of $17.1 million.  In addition, cash and due from banks declined $13.9 million during the year ended December 31, 2006 as excess liquidity that was maintained in cash and due from banks at December 31, 2005 was utilized for operations during the year ended December 31, 2006.

Liabilities.  Total liabilities increased $48.2 million during the year ended December 31, 2006. Deposits increased $93.8 million during the period (See "Item 7.  Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Liquidity and Capital Resources" for a discussion of deposit activity).  Partially offsetting this increase was a net decline in borrowings (REPOS and FHLBNY advances) of $45.2 million.  (See "Item 7.  Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Liquidity and Capital Resources"  for a discussion of borrowing activity).

Stockholders' Equity.  Stockholders' equity declined $1.1 million during the year ended December 31, 2006, due to cash dividends of $19.7 million and treasury stock repurchases of $11.0 million during the period.  Additionally, accumulated other comprehensive loss (which is recorded as a negative balance within stockholders' equity) increased by $3.8 million during the year ended December 31, 2006.  The change in accumulated other comprehensive loss resulted primarily from a charge of $3.8 million caused by the adoption of SFAS 158.  The increase of $3.8 million in accumulated other comprehensive loss caused a corresponding decrease in stockholders' equity during the period.

Partially offsetting the decrease to stockholders' equity during the year ended December 31, 2006 were net income of $30.6 million, common stock issued in fulfillment of stock option exercises totaling $910,000, and an increase to equity of $1.4 million related to amortization of the ESOP and RRP stock benefit plans.  The ESOP and RRP possess investments in the Holding Company's common stock that are recorded as Contra Equity Balances.  As compensation expense is recognized on the ESOP and RRP, the Contra Equity Balances are reduced in a corresponding amount, resulting in an increase to their respective equity balances.  This increase to equity offsets the decline in the Company's retained earnings related to the periodic recorded ESOP and RRP expenses.

Comparison of Operating Results for the Year Ended December 31, 2007 and 2006

General.  Net income was $22.4 million during the year ended December 31, 2007, a decrease of $8.1 million from net income of $30.6 million during the year ended December 31, 2006.  During the comparative period, net interest income declined $6.5 million, non-interest income decreased $2.0 million due primarily to a change in the net gains or losses on the disposal of assets, and non-interest expense increased $3.5 million, resulting in a reduction in pre-tax net income of $12.0 million.  Income tax expense decreased $3.8 million during the comparative period, primarily as a result of the decrease in pre-tax net income.

Net Interest Income.  The discussion of net interest income for the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006 presented below should be read in conjunction with the tables on pages F-47 and F-48, which set forth certain information related to the condensed consolidated statements of operations for those periods, and which also present the average yield on assets and average cost of liabilities for the periods indicated.  The yields and costs were derived by dividing income or expense by the average balance of their related assets or liabilities during the periods represented. Average balances were derived from average daily balances. The yields include fees that are considered adjustments to yields.

Net interest income for the year ended December 31, 2007 decreased $6.5 million to $71.0 million, from $77.5 million during the year ended December 31, 2006.  The decrease was attributable to an increase of $17.8 million in interest expense that was partially offset by an increase of $11.4 million in interest income.  The net interest spread decreased 31 basis points, from 2.19% for the year ended December 31, 2006 to 1.88% for the year ended December 31, 2007, and the net interest margin decreased 31 basis points, from 2.60% to 2.29% during the same period.

The increase in funding costs resulting from the tightening of monetary policy by the FOMC during the first six months of 2006 that remained in effect for the majority of 2007, in combination with various market factors suppressing increases in both general long-term interest rates and interest rates offered on real estate loans within the Bank's lending market, resulted in a narrowing spread between short and long-term interest rates during the great majority of the year ended December 31, 2007, which negatively impacted net interest income during the year ended December 31, 2007.  While these conditions improved late in 2007, the benefit occurred too late in the year to provide any significant favorable impact during the year ended December 31, 2007.

The decreases in both the net interest spread and net interest margin reflected an increase of 45 basis points in the average cost of interest bearing liabilities.  The increase resulted primarily from increases in the average cost of money market deposits and CDs of 125 basis points and 41 basis points, respectively, during the comparative period, reflecting increases in short-term interest rates during the first six months of 2006 that remained in effect throughout the great majority of 2007.  (See "Interest Expense" below).

Interest Income.  Interest income was $182.2 million during the year ended December 31, 2007, an increase of $11.4 million from $170.8 million during the year ended December 31, 2006.  This resulted primarily from increases of $9.7 million and $2.4 million in interest income on real estate loans and other short-term investments, respectively, that were partially offset by decreases in interest income on MBS and investment securities of $506,000 and $266,000, respectively, during the period.

The increase in interest income on real estate loans resulted, in part, from growth in their average balance of $125.8 million during the year ended December 31, 2007 compared to the year ended December 31, 2006.  The increase reflected originations of $574.5 million in 2007, which were partially offset by principal repayments of $324.4 million and loan sales of $77.6 million during the period.   The increase in interest income on real estate loans additionally resulted from an increase in the average yield from 5.87% during the year ended December 31, 2006 to 5.95% during the year ended December 31, 2007, that was attributable to higher medium- and long-term interest rates throughout much of the year ended December 31, 2007 compared to the year ended December 31, 2006.

The increase in interest income on other short-term investments resulted from growth in their average balance of $29.6 million during the year ended December 31, 2007 compared to the year ended December 31, 2006 coupled with an increase of 61 basis points in their average yield during the same period.  The increase in average balance reflected cash flows from deposit growth during 2007 that were retained in short-term securities and federal funds sold, since the flattened yield curve provided benefits to retaining the funds in short-term investments.  The increase in average yield reflected increases in short-term interest rates throughout 2006 that remained in effect throughout the great majority of 2007.  The actions of the FOMC during the last few months of 2007 resulting in lower short-term interest rates had only a minor effect upon short-term investment yields during the year ended December 31, 2007 since they occurred so late in the period.

The decline in interest income on MBS during the year ended December 31, 2007 compared to the year ended December 31, 2006 resulted from a decreased average balance of $22.0 million (resulting from $33.3 million and $39.4 million in principal repayments during the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively, that were partially offset by purchases of $38.0 million during 2007), that was partially offset by an increase of 22 basis points in average yield during the year ended December 31, 2007 compared to the year ended December 31, 2006 (resulting from increases in short and medium-term interest rates throughout 2006 which remained in effect throughout the great majority of 2007).  The decline in interest income on investment securities reflected a decrease in their average balance of $5.9 million during the year ended December 31, 2007 compared to the year ended December 31, 2006, as cash flows from maturing investment securities were utilized to fund real estate loan originations or Bank operations.

Interest Expense.  Interest expense increased $17.8 million, to $111.1 million, during the year ended December 31, 2007, from $93.3 million during the year ended December 31, 2006.  The growth resulted primarily from increased interest expense of $12.2 million related to money markets and $6.7 million related to CDs, that was partially offset by a decline of $1.3 million in interest expense on borrowings.

The increase in interest expense on money markets was due to increases of 125 basis points in their average cost and $166.5 million in their average balance during the comparative period.  During the year ended December 31, 2007, the Bank increased the rates offered on both promotional and non-promotional money market accounts, which led to the increase in average cost during the period.   In addition, the Bank grew its balance of money markets during 2007 through successful promotional activities.

The increase in interest expense on CDs resulted, in part, from an increase in their average cost of 41 basis points during the year ended December 31, 2007 compared to the year ended December 31, 2006.  The increase in average cost resulted from increases in short-term interest rates throughout 2006 that remained in effect throughout the great majority of 2007, as a significant majority of the Bank's CDs re-priced during 2007.  In addition, the average balance of CDs increased $53.1 million during the comparative period, reflecting successful gathering of new CDs from promotional activities during 2007.  (See "Item 7.  Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Liquidity and Capital Resources").

The decrease in interest expense on borrowed funds during the year ended December 31, 2007 compared to the year ended December 31, 2006 was due to a decline of $46.5 million in average balance during the period as the Company elected not to replace maturing borrowings throughout much of 2007 while deposit balances were increasing.  The average cost of borrowed funds increased 11 basis points during the year ended December 31, 2007 compared to the year ended December 31, 2006, due primarily to a reduction of $807,000 in borrowing expense recorded during 2006 related to borrowing restructurings.   (See "Item 7.  Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Liquidity and Capital Resources" for a discussion of the change in borrowing balances during the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006).

Provision for Loan Losses.  The provision for loan losses was $240,000 during the years ended both December 31, 2007 and December 31, 2006, as the Bank provided for additional inherent losses in the portfolio.

Non-Interest Income.  Non-interest income, excluding gains or losses on the sale of assets, increased $337,000 from $9.3 million during the year ended December 31, 2006 to $9.7 million during the year ended December 31, 2007.  This increase resulted primarily from a $546,000 Bank Owned Life Insurance benefit payment received by the Bank during 2007.

Net gains on the sale of loans and other assets (which were recorded as non-interest income) declined from $3.1 million during the year ended December 31, 2006 to $750,000 during the year ended December 31, 2007.  The Company sold loans to FNMA totaling $71.6 million and $145.4 million during the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively.  The gains recorded on these sales were $750,000 and $1.5 million during the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively.  During the year ended December 31, 2006, the Company additionally recorded non-recurring pre-tax gains of $478,000 on the sale of a property obtained in its 1999 acquisition of Financial Bancorp, Inc. and $1.1 million on the sale of mutual fund investments associated with its Benefit Maintenance Plan.

Non-Interest Expense.  Non-interest expense was $45.5 million during the year ended December 31, 2007, an increase of $3.5 million from the year ended December 31, 2006.

Salaries and employee benefits increased $1.3 million during the comparative period as a result of regular increases to existing employee compensation levels.  Stock benefit plan amortization expense increased $671,000 as a result of stock option awards granted on May 1, 2007 to outside directors and certain officers of the Company.

Occupancy and equipment expense increased $669,000 during the year ended December 31, 2007 compared to the comparable period of 2006 due to general increases in rental costs and real estate taxes, the expansion of administrative office space during 2007, and  a $239,000 charge related to the early termination of leased equipment .

Data processing expense increased $37,000 during the comparative period as a result of increased loan and deposit account activity during the year ended December 31, 2007 compared to the year ended December 31, 2006.  Other expenses increased $835,000 due primarily to increased advertising costs of $452,000 resulting from increased promotional activities and an aggregate increase of $499,000 in accounting and legal fees related primarily to a change in tax year-end along with added legal costs associated with new proxy compensation disclosures implemented in 2007.

Non-interest expense to average assets was 1.39% for the year ended December 31 2007, compared to 1.34% for the year ended December 31, 2006.  The increase reflected the growth in non-interest expense during the comparative period.

Income Tax Expense.  Income tax expense decreased $3.8 million during the year ended December 31, 2007 compared to the year ended December 31, 2006, due primarily to a decline of $12.0 million in pre-tax net income during the period.  The effective tax rate increased from 35.8% during the year ended December 31, 2006 to 37.1% during the year ended December 31, 2007 due primarily to the dissolution of a subsidiary in 2007.

Comparison of Operating Results for the Years Ended December 31, 2006 and 2005

General. Net income was $30.6 million during the year ended December 31, 2006, a decrease of $5.6 million from net income of $36.2 million during the year ended December 31, 2005.  Net interest income decreased $14.9 million, non-interest income increased $7.2 million and non-interest expense increased $1.2 million, resulting in a decline in pre-tax net income of $8.8 million.  Income tax expense decreased $3.2 million as a result of the decline in pre-tax net income.

Net Interest Income.  The discussion of net interest income for the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006 presented below should be read in conjunction with the tables on pages F-42 and F-43 , which set forth certain information related to the condensed consolidated statements of operations for those periods, and which also present the average yield on assets and average cost of liabilities for the periods indicated.  The yields and costs were derived by dividing income or expense by the average balance of their related assets or liabilities during the periods represented. Average balances were derived from average daily balances. The yields include fees that are considered adjustments to yields.

Net interest income for the year ended December 31, 2006 decreased $14.9 million to $77.5 million, from $92.4 million during the year ended December 31, 2005.  The decrease was attributable to an increase of $16.0 million in interest expense that was slightly offset by an increase of $1.1 million in interest income.  The net interest spread decreased 47 basis points, from 2.66% for the year ended December 31, 2005 to 2.19% for the year ended December 31, 2006, and the net interest margin decreased 36 basis points, from 2.96% to 2.60% during the same period.

The tightening of monetary policy by the FOMC from the second half of 2004 through June 30, 2006, in combination with various market factors suppressing increases in both general long-term interest rates and interest rates offered on real estate loans within the Bank's lending market, resulted in a narrowing spread between short and long-term interest rates, which negatively impacted net interest income during the year ended December 31, 2006.

The decrease in both the net interest spread and net interest margin reflected an increase of 77 basis points in the average cost of interest bearing liabilities.  The increase resulted primarily from the following: (i) borrowings, which generally possess a higher average cost than deposits, became a larger percentage of the Bank's total interest bearing liabilities as a result of runoff in average deposit balances during 2006, and (ii) the average cost of money market deposits and CDs increased by 100 basis points and 121 basis points, respectively, during the comparative period, reflecting increases in short-term interest rates during 2006.  (See "Interest Expense" below).

Partially offsetting the increase in the average cost of interest bearing liabilities was an increase of 31 basis points in the average yield on interest earning assets during the year ended December 31, 2006 compared to the year ended December 31, 2005.  This increase resulted primarily from an increase in the average balance of real estate loans (the Bank's highest yielding interest earning asset) as a percentage of total interest earning assets, which was coupled with an increase in the average yields on real estate loans and MBS of 1 basis point and 25 basis points, respectively, during the comparative period.  The increase in the composition of real estate loans as a percentage of interest earning assets resulted from both loan origination activity during 2006 coupled with a reduction in the level of investment securities and MBS during the same period, as cash flows from maturing investment securities and MBS were utilized to fund both loan originations and ongoing operations of the Company. The increase in average yield on real estate loans reflected ongoing increases in medium- and long-term interest rates during 2006.  The increase in average yield on MBS reflected ongoing increases in short- and medium-term interest rates during 2006.

Interest Income.  Interest income was $170.8 million during the year ended December 31, 2006, an increase of $1.1 million from the year ended December 31, 2005. Interest income on real estate loans increased $7.1 million and was partially offset by decreases in interest income on MBS, investment securities and other short-term investments of $4.8 million, $326,000 and $771,000, respectively, during the period.

The increase in interest income on real estate loans resulted primarily from growth in their average balance of $116.4 million during the year ended December 31, 2006 compared to the year ended December 31, 2005.  The growth reflected real estate loan originations of $563.2 during 2006, which were partially offset by principal repayments and loan sales during the period.

The one basis point increase in average yield on real estate loans during the year ended December 31, 2006 compared to the year ended December 31, 2005 resulted from ongoing increases in medium and long-term interest rates from October 2005 through June 2006, which resulted in an increase in the average origination rate on real estate loans from 5.77% during the year ended December 31, 2005 to 6.43% during the year ended December 31, 2006.

The decline in interest income on MBS during the year ended December 31, 2006 compared to the year ended December 31, 2005 resulted from a decreased average balance of $146.5 million (resulting primarily from the sale of $236.9 million of MBS in May 2005 and principal repayments on MBS of $39.4 million during 2006), that was partially offset by an increase of 25 basis points in average yield during the year ended December 31, 2006 compared to the year ended December 31, 2005 (resulting from increases in short and medium-term interest rates during 2006).  The decline in interest income on investment securities and other short-term investments reflected declines in their average balances of $35.7 million and $81.4 million, respectively, during the year ended December 31, 2006 compared to the year ended December 31, 2005, as cash flows from maturing investment securities and other short-term investments were utilized to fund both loan originations and ongoing operations of the Company.

Interest Expense.  Interest expense increased $16.0 million, to $93.3 million, during the year ended December 31, 2006, from $77.3 million during the year ended December 31, 2005.  The growth resulted primarily from increased interest expense of $13.5 million related to CDs and $2.3 million related to money market accounts.

The increase in interest expense on CDs resulted from an increase in their average cost of 121 basis points during the year ended December 31, 2006 compared to the year ended December 31, 2005.  The increase in average cost resulted from increases in short-term interest rates during 2006, as most of the Bank's CDs outstanding at December 2005 matured during this timeframe.  In addition, the average balance of CDs increased $37.5 million during the period, reflecting successful gathering of new CDs from promotional activities during 2006.  (See "Item 7.  Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Liquidity and Capital Resources").  The increase of $2.3 million in interest expense on money market accounts resulted from an increase of 100 basis points in average cost  during 2006 that was attributable to increases in short-term interest rates during 2006. Partially offsetting the increased cost was a $147.8 million decline in the average balance of money market accounts during 2006 that resulted primarily from a $173.2 million decrease in money market accounts from June 30, 2005 through June 30, 2006, as management elected not to compete aggressively for money market balances during this time period.

Provision for Loan Losses.  The provision for loan losses was $240,000 during the year ended December 31, 2006, down from $340,000 during the year ended December 31, 2005.  The decline reflected an additional provision of $100,000 taken during 2005 related to consumer loans.  Otherwise the provisions taken in 2006 and 2005 reflected inherent losses in the Bank's real estate loan portfolio that resulted from ongoing originations.

Non-Interest Income.  Non-interest income, excluding gains or losses on the sale of assets, totaled $9.3 million during the year ended December 31, 2006, compared to $9.4 million during the year ended December 31, 2005.  There were no material changes in any individual item during the comparable period.

The Company sold loans to FNMA totaling $145.4 million and $108.5 million during the years ended December 31, 2006 and 2005, respectively.  The gains recorded on these sales were $1.5 million and $924,000, respectively, during the years ended December 31, 2006 and 2005.  The majority of the loans sold during both of these periods were designated for sale upon origination.

During the year ended December 31, 2006, the Company recorded a pre-tax gain of $1.1 million on the sale of mutual fund investments associated with the Benefit Maintenance Plan of Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. ("BMP").  During the year ended December 31, 2005, the Company incurred a pre-tax loss of $5.2 million related to the sale of $274.2 million of investment and mortgage-backed securities under a restructuring of its securities portfolio.  During the year ended December 31, 2006, the Company sold a parcel of real estate obtained in its acquisition of Financial Bancorp, Inc. in 1999, recognizing a pre-tax gain of $478,000.

Non-Interest Expense.  Non-interest expense was $42.0 million during the year ended December 31, 2006, an increase of $1.2 million from the year ended December 31, 2005.

Salaries and employee benefits increased $591,000 during the comparative period, reflecting normal salary increases as well as the filling of open and new staffing and management positions.  Additions to staff occurred primarily in the retail division of the Bank, where initiatives included product and sales development for business and professional banking.

Occupancy and equipment expense increased $369,000 during the year ended December 31, 2006 compared to the year ended December 31, 2005 due to both general increases in utility costs and real estate taxes as well as the addition of the Valley Stream branch in March 2006.

Data systems expense increased $339,000 during the year ended December 31, 2006 compared to the year ended December 31, 2005, resulting from the expiration of promotional pricing the Company received throughout the first six months of 2005 from its new data systems vendor.

Non-interest expense to average assets was 1.34% during the year ended the December 31, 2006, compared to 1.24% for the year ended December 31, 2005.  Average assets decreased by $149.9 million during 2006 as a result of the previously discussed declines in the average balance of investment securities, MBS and other short-term investments during 2006.

Income Tax Expense.  Income tax expense decreased $3.2 million during the year ended December 31, 2006 compared to the year ended December 31, 2005, due primarily to a decline of $8.8 million in pre-tax net income during the period.

Comparison of the Operating Results for the Year Ended December 31, 2005 and 2004

General.  Net income was $36.2 million during the year ended December 31, 2005, a decrease of $10.0 million from net income of $46.2 million during the year ended December 31, 2004.  During the comparative period, net interest income decreased $13.6 million, non-interest income decreased $5.2 million and non-interest expense decreased $1.7 million, resulting in a decline in income before income tax of $17.2 million.  Income tax expense decreased $7.2 million as a result of the decline in income before income tax.

Net Interest Income.  Net interest income for the year ended December 31, 2005 decreased $13.6 million, to $92.4 million, from $106.0 million during the year ended December 31, 2004.  The decrease was attributable to an increase of $9.6 million in interest expense coupled with a decrease of $4.0 million in interest income.  The net interest spread decreased 43 basis points, from 3.09% for the year ended December 31, 2004 to 2.66% for the year ended December 31, 2005, and the net interest margin decreased 36 basis points, from 3.32% to 2.96% during the same period.

The decrease in both the net interest spread and net interest margin reflected an increase of 42 basis points in the average cost of interest bearing liabilities, due primarily to: (i) borrowings, which generally possess a higher average cost than deposits, becoming a higher percentage of the overall composition of the Bank's funding as a result of a runoff in deposit balances during the period (see "Interest Expense" below), and (ii) increases in the average cost of money market deposits, CDs and borrowings of 14 basis points, 42 basis points and 37 basis points, respectively, during the comparative period, reflecting increases in short-term interest rates during 2005.

In addition, the average yield on interest earning assets declined one basis point during the year ended December 31, 2005 compared to the year ended December 31, 2004.  This decline resulted from a reduction of 36 basis points in the average yield on real estate loans due to a decline of $4.8 million in prepayment fee income during the year ended December 31, 2005 compared to the year ended December 31, 2004.

Interest Income.  Interest income was $169.7 million during the year ended December 31, 2005, a decrease of $4.0 million from $173.7 million during the year ended December 31, 2004.  Interest income on real estate loans and MBS declined $402,000 and $9.4 million, respectively, during the period. Partially offsetting these decreases were increases in interest income on investment securities and other short-term investments of $857,000 and $4.9 million, respectively, during the year ended December 31, 2005 compared to the year ended December 31, 2004.

The decrease in interest income on real estate loans resulted from a decline of $4.8 million in prepayment fee income during the year ended December 31, 2005 compared to the year ended December 31, 2004, as increases in medium- and long-term interest rates resulted in a reduction in loan refinancing activity during 2005.   In addition, since the average interest rate on the loans that satisfied, prepaid and/or refinanced during this period was higher than the average yield on the remaining loan portfolio, the average yield on real estate loans declined throughout the period.  These factors combined to result in a reduction of 36 basis points in the yield on real estate loans during the year ended December 31, 2005 compared to the year ended December 31, 2004.

Partially offsetting the decrease in interest income on real estate loans that resulted from a decline in their yield was an increase in their average balance of $139.3 million during the year ended December 31, 2005 compared to the year ended December 31, 2004.   The growth in the average balance of real estate loans reflected real estate loan originations of $574.2 million during the year ended December 31, 2005, which were partially offset by principal repayments and loan sales during the period.

The decline in interest income on MBS during the year ended December 31, 2005 compared to the year ended December 31, 2004 resulted from a decreased average balance of $294.5 million (resulting from both the sale of $237.3 million of MBS and principal repayments of $89.1 million during the year ended December 31, 2005) that was partially offset by an increase of 20 basis points in average yield during the year ended December 31, 2005 compared to the year ended December 31, 2004 (resulting from increases in short-term interest rates during 2005).

The growth in interest income on investment securities during the year ended December 31, 2005 compared to the year ended December 31, 2004 reflected increases in both their average yield and average balance during the period.  The increase in the average balance of investment securities reflected the purchase of investment securities available-for-sale totaling $52.0 million during the year ended December 31, 2005.  The average yield on investment securities increased 13 basis points during the year ended December 31, 2005 compared to the year ended December 31, 2004 due to increases in short-term interest rates during 2005.  Since the Company's investment securities portfolio is predominantly short and medium-term in nature, its overall yield was favorably impacted by the increases in interest rates.

The increase in interest income on federal funds sold and other short-term investments resulted from an increase of 200 basis points in their average yield, reflecting an increase of 200 basis points in short-term interest rates during 2005, and an increase of $68.3 million in their average balance due to management's decision to maintain a higher level of federal funds sold and other short-term investments during a period of rising short-term interest rates and flat or minimally rising long-term interest rates.

Interest Expense.  Interest expense increased $9.6 million, to $77.3 million, during the year ended December 31, 2005, from $67.7 million during the year ended December 31, 2004.  The growth in interest expense resulted primarily from increases of $6.4 million and $5.2 million in interest expense on borrowings and CDs, respectively.

During the year ended December 31, 2005 compared to the year ended December 31, 2004, the average balance of borrowings increased $81.7 million as a result of the effects upon the computation of average balance of  $192.9 million of REPOS and a $72.2 million trust preferred borrowing that were added during 2004 and remained outstanding throughout the entire year ended December 31, 2005.  The average cost of borrowed funds increased 37 basis points during the year ended December 31, 2005 compared to the year ended December 31, 2004 due to the replacement of maturing low cost short-term borrowings while short-term interest rates rose during the year ended December 31, 2005.

The increase in interest expense on CDs resulted from both an increase in their average cost of 42 basis points and an increase in their average balance of $42.3 million during the comparative period.  The increase in average cost resulted from increases in short-term interest rates during the year ended December 31, 2005, as a great majority of the Bank's CDs outstanding at December 2004 matured during this period.  The increase in average balance of CDs reflected $18.6 million of CDs added during the year ended December 31, 2005, as a portion of the Bank's non-promotional interest rate money market depositors elected to move their balances into CDs as interest rates offered on CDs became more attractive compared to money markets.

Partially offsetting the increase in interest expense on CDs and borrowings was a decline of $2.0 million in interest expense on money market accounts.  This resulted from a decrease of $194.9 million in their average balance during the year ended December 31, 2005 compared to the year ended December 31, 2004, that was partially offset by an increase of 14 basis points in their average cost during the period.  Since management of the Bank elected to maintain the non-promotional interest rates offered on money markets constant during a period of rising short-term interest rates, the Bank experienced an above average level of attrition in non-promotional money market accounts, the majority of which flowed out of the Bank and into other financial institutions or Bank CDs.  This resulted in a decline in the overall average balance of money market accounts during the year ended December 31, 2005 compared to the year ended December 31, 2004.

Provision for Loan Losses. The provision for loan losses was $340,000 during the year ended December 31, 2005, compared to $280,000 for the year ended December 31, 2004 (See "Part I - Item 1 – Business -  Allowance for Loan Losses").

Non-Interest Income.  Non-interest income decreased $5.2 million, to $5.2 million, during the year ended December 31, 2005, from $10.4 million during the year ended December 31, 2004.

During the year ended December 31, 2005, the Company recorded a net loss of $5.2 million on the sale of investment securities and MBS (See "Part II - Item 7.  Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Liquidity and Capital Resources").  During the year ended December 31, 2004, the Company recorded net gains of $377,000 on the sale of investment and mortgage-backed securities.

Service charges and other fees declined $329,000 during the year ended December 31, 2005 compared to the year ended December 31, 2004, due primarily to a reduction of $651,000 in retail deposit fees, reflecting both reduced customer fee-based activities and competitive fee policies implemented in the local market.

Non-Interest Expense.  Non-interest expense was $40.7 million during the year ended December 31, 2005, a decrease of $1.7 million from the year ended December 31, 2004.

The benefit costs associated with the ESOP and RRP declined $1.3 million during the comparative period due to both a reduction in the level of allocated shares during the year ended December 31, 2005, (attributable to a decrease in the anticipated loan principal repayment to be made on the underlying ESOP borrowing that became effective January 1, 2005), along with a reduction in the average price of the Company's common stock (from which the recorded ESOP expense is derived).

Salaries and employee benefits increased $836,000 during the year ended December 31, 2005 compared to the year ended December 31, 2004, reflecting both additional staffing and general salary increases during the year ended December 31, 2005, offset by a reduction to expense related to the BMP, reflecting management's decision to forego the defined contribution portion of BMP benefits earned in 2005.

Data processing costs decreased $631,000 during the comparative period due to cost savings associated with the new data systems implemented in November 2004.

Other expenses declined $682,000 during the year ended December 31, 2005 compared to the year ended December 31, 2004, due primarily to the reduction of $777,000 in the core deposit intangible expense associated with the Company's 1999 acquisition of Financial Bancorp, Inc., which fully amortized in January 2005.

Income Tax Expense.  Income tax expense decreased $7.2 million during the year ended December 31, 2005 compared to the year ended December 31, 2004, due primarily to a decline of $17.2 million in income before income tax.  A decline in the effective tax rate to 36% during the year ended December 31, 2005 compared to 37% during the year ended December 31, 2004 resulted from the tax impact of the loss recorded from the sale of investment and mortgage backed securities during the quarter ended June 30, 2005.

Impact of Inflation and Changing Prices

The consolidated financial statements and notes thereto presented herein have been prepared in accordance with GAAP, which requires the measurement of financial position and operating results in terms of historical dollars without considering the changes in the relative purchasing power of money over time due to inflation. The impact of inflation is reflected in the increased costs of operations. Unlike industrial companies, nearly all of the Company's consolidated assets and liabilities are monetary in nature. As a result, interest rates have a greater impact on the Company's consolidated performance than do the effects of general levels of inflation. Interest rates do not necessarily fluctuate in the same direction or to the same extent as the price of goods and services.

Recently Issued Accounting Standards

For a discussion of the impact of recently issued accounting standards, please see Note 1 to the Company's consolidated financial statements that commence on page F-67.

Item 7A.  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

As a depository financial institution, the Bank's primary source of market risk is interest rate volatility.  Fluctuations in interest rates will ultimately impact the level of interest income recorded on, and the market value of, a significant portion of the Bank's assets.  Fluctuations in interest rates will also ultimately impact the level of interest expense recorded on, and the market value of, a significant portion of the Bank's liabilities.  In addition, the Bank's real estate loan portfolio, concentrated primarily within the NYC metropolitan area, is subject to risks associated with the local economy.

Real estate loans, the largest component of the Bank's interest earning assets, derive their current interest rates primarily from either the five- or seven-year constant maturity Treasury index.  As a result, the Bank's interest earning assets are most sensitivity to these benchmark interest rates.  Since the majority of the Bank's interest bearing liabilities mature within one year, its interest bearing liabilities are most sensitive to fluctuations in short-term interest rates.

Neither the Holding Company nor the Bank is subject to foreign currency exchange or commodity price risk.  In addition, the Company owned no trading assets, nor did it engage in any hedging transactions utilizing derivative instruments (such as interest rate swaps and caps) or embedded derivative instruments that required bifurcation during the years ended December 31, 2007 or 2006.  In the future, the Company may, with appropriate Board approval, engage in hedging transactions utilizing derivative instruments.
 
Since a majority of the Company's consolidated interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities are located at the Bank, virtually all of the interest rate risk exposure exists at the Bank level.  As a result, all of the significant interest rate risk management procedures are performed at the Bank level.  The Bank's interest rate risk management strategy is designed to limit the volatility of net interest income and preserve capital over a broad range of interest rate movements and has the following three primary components.

Assets.  The Bank's largest single asset type is the adjustable-rate multifamily residential loan. Multifamily residential loans typically carry shorter average terms to maturity than one- to four-family residential loans, thus significantly reducing the overall level of interest rate risk.  Approximately 80% of multifamily residential loans originated during the years ended both December 31, 2007 and 2006 were adjustable rate, with repricing typically occurring after five or seven years. In addition, the Bank has sought to include in its portfolio various types of adjustable-rate one- to four-family loans and adjustable and floating-rate investment securities, which generally have repricing terms of three years or less.  At December 31, 2007, adjustable-rate real estate and consumer loans totaled $2.41 billion, or 76.1% of total assets, and adjustable-rate investment securities (CMOs, REMICs, MBS issued by GSEs and other securities) totaled $53.6 million, or 1.5% of total assets.   At December 31, 2006, adjustable-rate real estate and consumer loans totaled $2.26 billion, or 71.1% of total assets, and adjustable-rate investment securities (CMOs, REMICs, MBS issued by GSEs and other securities) totaled $23.8 million, or 0.8% of total assets.

Deposit Liabilities.  As a traditional community-based savings bank, the Bank is largely dependent upon its base of competitively priced core deposits to provide stability on the liability side of the balance sheet.  The Bank has retained many loyal customers over the years through a combination of quality service, convenience, and a stable and experienced staff. Core deposits, at December 31, 2007, were $1.10 billion, or 50.5% of total deposits. The balance of CDs as of December 31, 2007 was $1.08 billion, or 49.5% of total deposits, of which $968.1 million, or 89.9%, were to mature within one year.  The weighted average maturity of the Bank's CDs at December 31, 2007 was 5.8 months compared to 6.2 months at December 31, 2006.  While the Bank generally prices its CDs in an effort to encourage the extension of the average maturities of deposit liabilities beyond one year, the decline in the average maturity of CDs during the year ended December 31, 2007 reflected customer recognition that rising deposit offering interest rates during the great majority of 2007 made long-term CDs less desirable.

Wholesale Funds.  The Bank is a member of the FHLBNY, which provided the Bank with a borrowing line of up to $1.04 billion at December 31, 2007.  The Bank borrows from the FHLBNY for various purposes. At December 31, 2007, the Bank had outstanding advances of $706.5 million from the FHLBNY, all of which were unsecured.

The Bank has authority to accept brokered deposits as a source of funds.  The Bank had no outstanding brokered deposits at either December 31, 2007 or December 31, 2006.

Interest Sensitivity Gap

The Bank regularly monitors its interest rate sensitivity through the calculation of an interest sensitivity gap.  The interest sensitivity gap is the difference between the amount of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities anticipated to mature or reprice within a specific period.  The interest sensitivity gap is considered positive when the amount of interest-earning assets anticipated to mature or reprice within a specified time frame exceeds the amount of interest-bearing liabilities anticipated to mature or reprice within the same period.  Conversely, the interest sensitivity gap is considered negative when the amount of interest-bearing liabilities anticipated to mature or reprice within a specific time frame exceeds the amount of interest-earning assets anticipated to mature or reprice within the same period.  In a rising interest rate environment, an institution with a positive interest sensitivity gap would generally be expected, absent the effects of other factors, to experience a greater increase in the yields of its assets relative to the costs of its liabilities and thus an increase in its net interest income, whereas an institution with a negative interest sensitivity gap would generally be expected to experience a decline in net interest income.  Conversely, in a declining interest rate environment, an institution with a positive interest sensitivity gap would generally be expected, absent the effects of other factors, to experience a greater decline in the yields of its assets relative to the costs of its liabilities and thus a decrease in its net interest income, whereas an institution with a negative interest sensitivity gap would generally be expected to experience an increase in net interest income.

The following table sets forth the amounts of the Company's consolidated interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities outstanding at December 31, 2007 which are anticipated, based upon certain assumptions, to reprice, prepay or mature in each of the time periods shown. Except as stated below, the amounts of assets and liabilities shown repricing or maturing during a particular period reflect the earlier of term to repricing or maturity of the asset or liability. The table is intended to provide an approximation of the projected repricing of assets and liabilities which existed at December 31, 2007 on the basis of contractual maturities, anticipated prepayments, and scheduled rate adjustments within a three-month period and selected subsequent time intervals. For purposes of presentation in the table, the Bank utilized its own historical deposit attrition experience ("Deposit Decay Rate") for savings accounts, which it believes to be the most accurate measure. For NOW, Super NOW and money market accounts, it utilized the Deposit Decay Rates published by the OTS.   All amounts calculated in the table for both loans and MBS reflect principal balances expected to reprice as a result of contractual interest rate adjustments or from reinvestment of cash flows generated from anticipated principal repayments (inclusive of early prepayments).

There are certain limitations inherent in the method of analysis presented in the table.  For example, although certain assets and liabilities may possess similar maturities or periods to repricing, they are impacted by different market forces, and may therefore react differently to changes in interest rates. Also, the interest rates on certain types of assets and liabilities may fluctuate with changes in market interest rates, while interest rates on other types of assets may lag behind changes in market rates. Additionally, certain assets, such as adjustable-rate loans, have features, like annual and lifetime rate caps, which restrict changes in the interest rates charged, both on a short-term basis and over the life of the asset. Further, in the event of a change in interest rates, prepayment and early withdrawal levels would likely deviate from those assumed in the table. Finally, the ability of certain borrowers to make scheduled payments on their adjustable-rate loans may decrease in the event of an interest rate increase.

F-59

 
 

 


 
 
At December 31, 2007
 
3 Months
or Less
More than
3 Months to
6 Months
More than 6 Months
to 1 Year
More than
1 Year
to 3 Years
More than
3 Years
to 5 Years
 
More than
5 Years
Non-interest
bearing
 
 
Total
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
Interest-Earning Assets (1):
             
Mortgages and other loans
$165,866 
$120,735 
$262,523 
$1,117,832 
$895,110
$314,959 
$2,877,025 
Investment securities
17,035 
-   
-  
-  
351
16,789 
34,175 
MBS (2)
9,107 
7,828 
15,657 
45,428 
38,818
45,926 
162,764 
Other short-term Investments
128,014 
-  
-  
-  
-  
-  
128,014 
FHLBNY capital stock
39,029 
-  
-  
-  
-  
-  
39,029 
Total interest-earning assets
359,051 
128,563 
278,180 
1,163,260 
934,279
377,674 
3,241,007 
Less:
               
Allowance for loan losses
-  
-  
-  
-  
-  
-  
$(15,387)
(15,387)
Net interest-earning assets
359,051 
128,563 
278,180 
1,163,260 
934,279
377,674 
(15,387)
3,225,620 
Non-interest-earning assets
-  
-  
-  
-  
-  
275,555 
275,555 
Total assets
$359,051 
$128,563 
$278,180 
$1,163,260 
$934,279
$377,674 
$260,168 
$3,501,175 
Interest-Bearing Liabilities
               
Savings accounts
$9,531 
$9,208 
$17,492 
$58,017 
$43,865
$135,955 
-  
$274,068 
NOW and Super NOW accounts
5,403 
4,903 
8,488 
19,286 
5,968
14,364 
-  
58,412 
Money market accounts
134,055 
107,579 
155,614 
133,864 
70,208
77,439 
-  
678,759 
CDs
429,841 
414,397 
123,890 
99,928 
9,021
10 
1,077,087 
Borrowed funds
50,000 
8,080 
40,000 
256,000 
257,500
250,000 
861,580 
Subordinated notes
-  
-  
-  
25,000 
-  
-  
 
25,000 
Trust preferred securities
-  
-  
-  
-  
-  
72,165 
 
72,165 
Interest-bearing escrow
-  
-  
-  
-  
-  
1,424 
1,424 
Total interest-bearing liabilities
628,830 
544,167 
345,484 
592,095 
386,562
551,357 
3,048,495 
Checking accounts
-  
-  
-  
-  
-  
$91,671
91,671 
Other non-interest-bearing liabilities
-  
-  
-  
-  
-  
92,157
92,157 
Stockholders' equity
-  
-  
-  
-  
-  
268,852
268,852 
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
$628,830 
$544,167 
$345,484 
$592,095 
$386,562
$551,357 
$452,680
$3,501,175 
Positive (Negative) interest sensitivity gap per period
$(269,779)
$(415,604)
$(67,304)
$571,165 
$547,717
$(173,683)
 
Positive (Negative) cumulative interest sensitivity gap
$(269,779)
$(685,383)
$(752,687)
$(181,522)
$366,195
$192,512 
 
Positive (Negative) cumulative interest sensitivity gap
   as a percent of total assets
 
(7.71)%
 
(19.58)%
 
(21.50)%
 
(5.18)%
 
10.46%
 
5.50%
 
 
Cumulative total interest-earning assets as a percent
   of cumulative total interest-bearing liabilities
 
57.10%
 
41.57%
 
50.43%
 
91.40%
 
114.66%
 
106.31%
 
 

(1)  
Interest-earning assets are included in the period in which the balances are expected to be redeployed and/or repriced as a result of anticipated prepayments, scheduled rate adjustments, or contractual maturities or calls.
 
(2)  
Based upon historical repayment experience, and, where applicable, balloon payment dates.
 

F-59

 
 

 


At December 31, 2007, the Company's consolidated balance sheet was comprised primarily of assets that were estimated to mature or reprice within five years, with a significant portion maturing or repricing within one year. In addition, the Bank's deposit base was comprised primarily of savings accounts, money market accounts and CDs with maturities of two years or less.  At December 31, 2007, interest-bearing liabilities estimated to mature or reprice within one year totaled $1.52 billion, while interest-earning assets estimated to mature or reprice within one year totaled $765.8 million, resulting in a negative one-year interest sensitivity gap of $752.7 million, or negative 21.5% of total assets.  In comparison, at December 31, 2006, interest-bearing liabilities estimated to mature or reprice within one year totaled $1.70 billion, while interest-earning assets estimated to mature or reprice within one year totaled $571.5 million, resulting in a negative one-year interest sensitivity gap of $1.12 billion, or negative 35.4% of total assets.  The decrease in the magnitude of the one-year negative interest sensitivity gap resulted from an increase in the level of real estate loans scheduled to mature or reprice within one year (as loans originated during the refinance boom period of 2002 through 2004 approached their contractual repricing date) coupled with a decline in borrowings maturing or repricing within one year, as the Company took advantage of favorable pricing late in 2007 in order to extend the average term to maturity of its borrowings.

Under interest rate scenarios other than that which existed on December 31, 2007, the interest sensitivity gap for assets and liabilities could differ substantially based upon different assumptions about the manner in which core Deposit Decay Rates and loan prepayments would change. For example, the interest rate risk management model assumes that in a rising rate scenario, by paying competitive rates on non-core deposits, a portion of core deposits will transfer to CDs and be retained, although at higher cost.  Also, in a rising interest rate environment, loan and MBS prepayment rates would be expected to slow, as borrowers postpone loan refinancings until rates again decline.

Interest Rate Risk Exposure (NPV) Compliance
 
Under guidelines established by OTS Thrift Bulletin 13a, the Bank also measures its interest rate risk through an analysis of the change in its NPV under several interest rate scenarios.  NPV is the difference between the present value of the expected future cash flows of the Bank’s assets and liabilities, plus the value of net expected cash flows from either loan origination commitments or purchases of securities.

Generally, the fair value of fixed-rate instruments fluctuates inversely with changes in interest rates.  Increases in interest rates could thus result in decreases in the fair value of interest-earning assets, which could adversely affect the Company's consolidated results of operations if they were to be sold, or, in the case of interest-earning assets classified as available for sale, reduce the Company's consolidated stockholders' equity, if retained. The changes in the value of assets and liabilities due to fluctuations in interest rates reflect the interest rate sensitivity of those assets and liabilities.  Under GAAP, changes in the unrealized gains and losses, net of taxes, on securities classified as available for sale are reflected in stockholders' equity through other comprehensive income.  As of December 31, 2007, the Company's consolidated securities portfolio included $196.9 million in securities classified as available for sale, which possessed a gross unrealized loss of $2.3 million.   Neither the Holding Company nor the Bank owned any trading assets as of December 31, 2007 or 2006.

In order to measure the Bank’s sensitivity to changes in interest rates, NPV is calculated under market interest rates prevailing at a given quarter-end ("Pre-Shock Scenario"), and under various other interest rate scenarios ("Rate Shock Scenarios") representing immediate, permanent, parallel shifts in the term structure of interest rates from the actual term structure observed at quarter-end.  The changes in NPV between the Pre-Shock Scenario and various Rate Shock Scenarios due to fluctuations in interest rates reflect the interest rate sensitivity of the Bank’s assets, liabilities, and commitments to either originate or sell loans and/or purchase or sell securities that are included in the NPV.  The NPV ratio under any interest rate scenario is defined as the NPV in that scenario divided by the present value of the assets in the same scenario (the "NPV Ratio").

An interest rate risk exposure compliance report is presented to the Bank's Board of Directors on a quarterly basis. The report, prepared in accordance with Thrift Bulletin 13a, compares the Bank's estimated Pre-Shock Scenario NPV to the estimated NPVs calculated under the various Rate Shock Scenarios.  The calculated estimates of the resulting NPV Ratios are compared to current limits established by management and approved by the Board of Directors.


F-67

 
 

 

The analysis that follows presents the estimated NPV in the Pre-Shock Scenario and four Rate Shock Scenarios and measures the dollar amount and percentage by which each of the Rate Shock Scenario NPVs changes from the Pre-Shock Scenario NPV.  Interest rate sensitivity is measured by the changes in the various Rate Shock Scenario NPV Ratios from the Pre-Shock Scenario NPV Ratio.

 
At December 31, 2007
       
 
Net Portfolio Value
       
At December 31, 2006
 
 
 
Dollar
Amount
 
Dollar
Change
 
Percentage
Change
 
 
NPV
Ratio
 
Basis Point Change in NPV Ratio
 
 
NPV
Ratio
Basis Point Change in NPV Ratio
 
Board Approved NPV Ratio Limit
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Rate Shock Scenario
                   
+ 200 Basis Points
$263,704
(83,220)
-23.99%
 
7.79%
(211)
 
10.01%
(220)
6.0%
+ 100 Basis Points
310,161
(36,763)
-10.60   
 
9.00   
(90)
 
11.22   
(99)
7.0   
Pre-Shock Scenario
346,924
-  
-     
 
9.90   
-  
 
12.21   
-  
8.0   
- 100 Basis Points
364,169
17,245 
4.97   
 
10.25   
35 
 
12.67   
46 
8.0   
- 200 Basis Points
363,913
16,989 
4.90   
 
10.14   
24 
 
12.47   
26 
8.0   

The NPVs presented above incorporate some asset and liability values derived from the Bank’s valuation model, such as those for mortgage loans and time deposits, and some asset and liability values that are provided by reputable independent sources, such as values for the Bank's MBS and CMO portfolios, as well as its putable borrowings.  The Bank's valuation model makes various estimates regarding cash flows from principal repayments on loans and passbook Deposit Decay Rates at each level of interest rate change.  The Bank's estimates for loan repayment levels are influenced by the recent history of prepayment activity in its loan portfolio as well as the interest-rate composition of the existing portfolio, especially vis-à-vis the current interest rate environment.  In addition, the Bank considers the amount of fee protection inherent in the loan portfolio when estimating future repayment cash flows.

Regarding passbook Deposit Decay Rates, the Bank tracks and analyzes the decay rate of its passbook deposits over time and over various interest rate scenarios and then makes estimates of its passbook Deposit Decay Rate for use in the valuation model.  Nevertheless, no matter the care and precision with which the estimates are derived, actual cash flows for passbooks, as well as loans, could differ significantly from the Bank's estimates, resulting in significantly different NPV calculations.

The Bank also generates a series of spot discount rates that are integral to the valuation of the projected monthly cash flows of its assets and liabilities.  The Bank's valuation model employs discount rates that are representative of prevailing market rates of interest, with appropriate adjustments suited to the heterogeneous characteristics of the Bank’s various asset and liability portfolios.

The Pre-Shock Scenario NPV declined from $386.2 million at December 31, 2006 to $346.9 million at December 31, 2007.  The NPV Ratio at December 31, 2007 was 9.90% in the Pre-Shock Scenario, a decrease from the NPV Ratio of 12.21% in that Scenario at December 31, 2006.  The decrease in the Pre-Shock Scenario NPV was due primarily to a decline in the Bank's equity resulting from $35.0 million of capital distributions to the Holding Company during 2007 that exceeded the Bank's earnings during the same period, coupled with an increase in the valuation of borrowings (which negatively impact NPV) that resulted from declines in short and medium-term interest rates at December 31, 2007 compared to December 31, 2006.

The Bank’s +200 basis point Rate Shock Scenario NPV decreased from $306.5 million at December 31, 2006 to $263.7 million at December 31, 2007.  This decline also resulted primarily from the aforementioned $35.0 million of capital distributions during 2007 and increase in the valuation of borrowings.

The NPV Ratio was 7.79% in the +200 basis point Rate Shock Scenario at December 31, 2007, a decrease from the 10.01% NPV Ratio in the +200 basis point Rate Shock Scenario at December 31, 2006.  The decrease reflected the aforementioned decline in the +200 basis point Rate Shock Scenario NPV during the period.

At December 31, 2007, the "sensitivity change" (the basis point change in the NPV Ratio calculated under the various Rate Shock Scenarios compared to the Pre-Shock Scenario) in the +200 basis point Rate Shock Scenario was 211 basis points, compared to a sensitivity change of 220 basis points in the +200 basis point Rate Shock Scenario at December 31, 2006.  The decrease in sensitivity was due primarily to growth in the Company's balance sheet that occurred late in 2007 in which medium- and long-term borrowings were obtained and were temporarily invested in short-term assets (cash and federal funds sold and other short-term investments).  This resulted in a reduction of sensitivity in a rising interest rate environment since the average repricing period on the Bank's liabilities increased as a result of the medium- and long-term borrowings and the average repricing period of the Bank's assets declined from the additional short-term assets held at December 31, 2007.

Item 8.  Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

For the Company's consolidated financial statements, see index on page F-67.

Item 9.  Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

None.

Item 9A.  Controls and Procedures

Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Management of the Company, with the participation of its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness as of December 31, 2007, of the Company's disclosure controls and procedures, as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15(d)-15(e) under the Exchange Act.  Based upon this evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the Company's disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of December 31, 2007 in ensuring that information required to be disclosed by the Company in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

There was no change in the Company's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the Company's last fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company's internal control over financial reporting.

Management’s Report On Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

Management of the Company is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting for the Company.  The Company’s internal control over financial reporting is defined as a process designed to provide reasonable assurance to the Company's management and Board of Directors regarding the preparation and fair presentation of financial statements.

Because of inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements.  In addition, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

The Company’s management assessed the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2007, utilizing the criteria established by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission in "Internal Controls – Integrated Framework."  Based upon its assessment, management believes that, as of December 31, 2007, the Company's internal control over financial reporting is effective.

Deloitte & Touche LLP, the independent registered public accounting firm that audited the consolidated financial statements included in the Annual Report, has issued an audit report on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2007, which is included below.

Item 9B.                      Other Information

None.

F-67

 
 

 


REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of
Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. & Subsidiaries
Brooklyn, New York

We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. and Subsidiaries (the "Company") as of December 31, 2007, based on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.  The Company's management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting.  Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States).  Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.  Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances.  We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

A company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, or under the supervision of, the company's principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, and effected by the company's board of directors, management, and other personnel to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.  A company's internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company's assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of the inherent limitations of internal control over financial reporting, including the possibility of collusion or improper management override of controls, material misstatements due to error or fraud may not be prevented or detected on a timely basis.  Also, projections of any evaluation of the effectiveness of the internal control over financial reporting to future periods are subject to the risk that the controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2007, based on the criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2007 of the Company and our report dated March 14, 2008 expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements, and included an explanatory paragraph relating to the adoption of FASB Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes” on January 1, 2007.

/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP

New York, New York
March 14, 2008



PART III

Item 10.  Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance

Information regarding directors and executive officers of the Company is presented under the headings "Proposal 1 - Election of Directors," "Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance" and "Executive Officers" in the Holding Company's definitive Proxy Statement for its Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on May 15, 2008 (the "Proxy Statement") which will be filed with the SEC within 120 days of December 31, 2007, and is incorporated herein by reference.

Information regarding the audit committee of the Holding Company's Board of Directors, including information regarding audit committee financial experts serving on the audit committee, is presented under the headings, "Meetings and Committees of the Company's Board of Directors," and "Report of the Audit Committee" in the Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by reference.

The Holding Company has adopted a written Code of Business Ethics that applies to its principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller, or persons performing similar functions.  The Code of Business Ethics is published on the Company's website, www.dimewill.com.  The Company will provide to any person, without charge, upon request, a copy of such Code of Business Ethics.  Such request should be made in writing to:  Dime Community Bancshares, Inc., 209 Havemeyer Street, Brooklyn, New York 11211, attention Investor Relations.

Item 11.  Executive Compensation

Information regarding executive and director compensation and the Compensation Committee of the Holding Company's Board of Directors is presented under the headings, "Directors' Compensation," "Compensation - Executive Compensation, "Compensation Discussion and Analysis," "Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation," and "Compensation Committee Report" in the Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by reference.

Item 12.  Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters

Information regarding security ownership of certain beneficial owners and management is included under the heading "Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management" in the Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by reference.

The following table presents information as of December 31, 2007 with respect to compensation plans under which equity securities of the Holding Company are authorized for issuance:

   
EQUITY COMPENSATION PLAN INFORMATION
Plan Category
 
 
Number of Securities to be Issued Upon Exercise of Outstanding Options
(a)
 
 
Weighted Average Exercise Price of Outstanding Options
(b)
 
Number of Securities Remaining Available for Future Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans [Excluding Securities Reflected in Column (a)]
(c)
             
Equity compensation plans approved
   by the Holding Company's shareholders
 
 
3,165,997
 
 
$14.63
 
 
118,975(1)
             
Equity compensation plans not
   approved by the Holding Company's
   shareholders
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
(1)
Amount comprised of 105,791 stock options that remain available for future issuance under the 2001 Stock Option Plan for Outside Directors, Officers and Employees of Dime Community Bancshares, Inc., and 13,184 equity awards that remain available for future issuance under the 2004 Stock Incentive Plan for Outside Directors, Officers and Employees of Dime Community Bancshares, Inc.


Item 13.  Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence

Information regarding certain relationships and related transactions is included under the heading "Transactions with Certain Related Persons" in the Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by reference.  Information regarding director independence is included under the heading "Information as to Nominees and Continuing Directors" in the Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by reference.

Item 14.                      Principal Accounting Fees and Services

Information regarding principal accounting fees and services, as well as the Audit Committee's pre-approval policies and procedures, is included under the heading "Proposal 2 – Ratification of Appointment of Independent Auditors," in the Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by reference.


PART IV

Item 15.  Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules

(a)           (1)           Financial Statements

See index to Consolidated Financial Statements on page F-67.

           (2)           Financial Statement Schedules

Financial statement schedules have been omitted because they are not applicable or not required or the required information is shown in the Consolidated Financial Statements or Notes thereto under "Item 8.  Financial Statements and Supplementary Data."

(3)           Exhibits Required by Item 601 of SEC Regulation S-K

See Index of Exhibits on pages F-111 and F-112.


F-67

 
 

 

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized on March 14, 2008.

DIME COMMUNITY BANCSHARES, INC.

By: /s/ VINCENT F. PALAGIANO
Vincent F. Palagiano
Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below on March 14, 2008 by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities indicated.

Name
Title
/s/ VINCENT F. PALAGIANO
Vincent F. Palagiano
Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer)
/s/ MICHAEL P. DEVINE
Michael P. Devine
President and Chief Operating Officer and Director
/s/ KENNETH J. MAHON
Kenneth J. Mahon
First Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer and Director (Principal Financial Officer and
   Principal Accounting Officer)
/s/ ANTHONY BERGAMO
Anthony Bergamo
Director
/s/ GEORGE L. CLARK, JR.
George L. Clark, Jr.
Director
/s/ STEVEN D. COHN
Steven D. Cohn
Director
/s/ PATRICK E. CURTIN
Patrick E. Curtin
Director
/s/ FRED P. FEHRENBACH
Fred P. Fehrenbach
Director
/s/ JOHN J. FLYNN
John J. Flynn
Director
/s/ JOSEPH J. PERRY
Joseph J. Perry
Director
/s/ DONALD E. WALSH
Donald E. Walsh
Director
/s/ OMER S.J. WILLIAMS
Omer S.J. Williams
Director


F-67

 
 

 








CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF
DIME COMMUNITY BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

INDEX


 
Page
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
F-63
Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition at December 31, 2007 and 2006
F-64
Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005
F-65
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity and Comprehensive Income for the years ended
   December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005
 
F-66
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005
F-67
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
F68-F103



F-67

 
 

 

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of
Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. & Subsidiaries
Brooklyn, NY

We have audited the accompanying consolidated statements of financial condition of Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. and Subsidiaries (the "Company") as of December 31, 2007 and 2006, and the related consolidated statements of operations, changes in stockholders' equity and comprehensive income, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2007.  These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management.  Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States).  Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement.  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 audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. and Subsidiaries as of December 31, 2007 and 2006, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2007, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

As discussed in Notes 1 and 14, the Company adopted the FASB Interpretation No. 48, "Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes" on January 1, 2007.  In addition, as discussed in Note 1, the Company adopted the Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 158, "Employers' Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, an amendment of FASB Statements No. 87, 88, 106 and 132(R)" as of December 31, 2006.

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2007, based on the criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated March 14, 2008 expressed an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP

New York, New York
March 14, 2008
 

 
 

 


F-

 
 

 

DIME COMMUNITY BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION
(Dollars in thousands except share amounts)
 
December 31, 2007
December 31, 2006
ASSETS:
   
Cash and due from banks
$101,708 
$26,264 
Federal funds sold and other short-term investments
128,014 
78,752 
Encumbered investment securities held-to-maturity (estimated fair value of
   $80 and $235 at December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively) (Note 3)
 
80 
 
235 
Investment securities available-for-sale, at fair value (fully unencumbered) (Note 3)
34,095 
29,548 
Mortgage-backed securities available-for-sale, at fair value (Note 4):
   
   Encumbered
160,821 
147,765 
   Unencumbered
1,943 
6,672 
 
162,764 
154,437 
Loans (Note 5):
   
    Real estate, net
2,873,966 
2,700,268 
    Other loans
2,169 
2,205 
    Less allowance for loan losses (Note 6)
(15,387)
(15,514)
   Total loans, net
2,860,748 
2,686,959 
Loans held for sale
890 
1,200 
Premises and fixed assets, net (Note 8)
23,878 
22,886 
Federal Home Loan Bank of New York capital stock (Note 9)
39,029 
31,295 
Goodwill (Note 1)
55,638 
55,638 
Other assets (Notes 7, 14 and 15)
94,331 
86,163 
Total Assets
$3,501,175 
$3,173,377 
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
   
Liabilities:
   
Due to depositors (Note 10):
   
Interest bearing deposits
$2,091,600 
$1,913,317 
Non-interest bearing deposits
88,398 
95,215 
Total deposits
2,179,998 
2,008,532 
Escrow and other deposits (Note 7)
52,209 
46,373 
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase (Note 11)
155,080 
120,235 
Federal Home Loan Bank of New York advances (Note 12)
706,500 
571,500 
Subordinated notes payable (Note 13)
25,000 
25,000 
Trust Preferred securities payable (Note 13)
72,165 
72,165 
Other liabilities (Note 14 and 15)
41,371 
38,941 
Total Liabilities
3,232,323 
2,882,746 
Commitments and Contingencies (Note 16)
   
Stockholders' Equity:
   
Preferred stock ($0.01 par, 9,000,000 shares authorized, none issued or outstanding at
   December 31, 2007 and 2006)
 
-  
 
-  
Common stock ($0.01 par, 125,000,000 shares authorized, 50,906,278   shares and 50,862,867
   shares issued at December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively, and 33,909,902 shares and
    36,456,354 shares outstanding at December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively)
509 
 
 
509 
Additional paid-in capital
208,369 
206,601 
Retained earnings (Note 2)
288,112 
285,420 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of deferred taxes
(4,278)
(7,100)
Unallocated common stock of Employee Stock Ownership Plan ("ESOP")  (Note 15)
(4,164)
(4,395)
Unearned and unallocated common stock of Recognition and Retention Plan ("RRP") and
   Restricted Stock Awards (Note 15)
(634)
 
(3,452)
Common stock held by Benefit Maintenance Plan ("BMP") (Note 15)
(7,941)
(7,941)
Treasury stock, at cost (16,996,376 shares and 14,406,513 shares at
   December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively) (Note 18)
(211,121)
 
(179,011)
Total Stockholders' Equity
268,852 
290,631 
Total Liabilities And Stockholders' Equity
$3,501,175 
$3,173,377 
See notes to consolidated financial statements.

F-

 
 

 

DIME COMMUNITY BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(Dollars in thousands except per share amounts)

 
Fiscal Year Ended December 31,
 
2007
2006
2005
Interest income:
     
Loans secured by real estate
165,221 
$155,510 
$148,442 
Other loans
178 
190 
214 
Mortgage-backed securities
6,344 
6,850 
11,699 
Investment securities
2,011 
2,276 
2,602 
Federal funds sold and other short-term investments
8,406 
5,984 
6,755 
Total interest income
182,160 
170,810 
169,712 
       
Interest expense:
     
Deposits and escrow
75,761 
56,659 
41,058 
Borrowed funds
35,386 
36,681 
36,283 
Total interest expense
111,147 
93,340 
77,341 
Net interest income
71,013 
77,470 
92,371 
Provision for loan losses
240 
240 
340 
       
Net interest income after provision for loan losses
70,773 
77,230 
92,031 
       
Non-interest income:
     
Service charges and other fees
5,542 
5,985 
5,967 
Net gain on sales of loans
750 
1,516 
924 
Net gain (loss) on sales and redemptions of securities
   and other assets
 -  
 
1,541 
 
(5,176)
Income from Bank Owned Life Insurance ("BOLI")
2,513 
1,868 
1,885 
Other
1,615 
1,480 
1,551 
       
Total non-interest income
10,420 
12,390 
5,151 
       
Non-interest expense:
     
Salaries and employee benefits
22,620 
21,307 
20,716 
Stock benefit plan compensation expense
2,796 
2,125 
2,233 
Occupancy and equipment
6,431 
5,762 
5,393 
Data processing costs
3,204 
3,167 
2,828 
Advertising and marketing
2,638 
2,186 
1,800 
Federal deposit insurance premiums
258 
257 
315 
Other
7,555 
7,172 
7,457 
       
Total non-interest expense
45,502 
41,976 
40,742 
       
Income before income taxes
35,691 
47,644 
56,440 
Income tax expense
13,248 
17,052 
20,230 
       
Net income
$22,443 
$30,592 
$36,210 
       
Earnings per Share:
     
Basic
$0.67
$0.88
$1.03
Diluted
$0.67
$0.87
$1.02
See notes to consolidated financial statements.

F-

 
 

 

DIME COMMUNITY BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
 (Dollars in thousands)
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
2007
2006
2005
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
     
Common Stock (Par Value $0.01):
     
Balance at beginning of period
$509 
$506 
$501 
Shares issued in exercise of options
-  
Balance at end of period
509 
509 
506 
Additional Paid-in Capital:
     
Balance at beginning of period
206,601 
204,083 
198,183 
Stock options exercised
136 
907 
2,302 
Release of treasury stock for shares acquired by BMP and RRP
15 
108 
222 
Excess tax benefit of stock benefit plans
174 
621 
2,307 
Amortization of excess fair value over cost – ESOP stock
1,443 
882 
1,069 
Balance at end of period
208,369 
206,601 
204,083 
Retained earnings:
     
Balance at beginning of period
285,420 
274,579 
258,237 
Cumulative effect adjustment for the adoption of FASB Interpretation No. 48, "Accounting for
   Uncertainty in Income Taxes" ("FIN 48")
 
(1,703)
-  
-  
Net income for the period
22,443 
30,592 
36,210 
Cash dividends re-assumed through liquidation of RRP
958 
-  
-  
Cash dividends declared and paid
(19,006)
(19,751)
(19,868)
Balance at end of period
288,112 
285,420 
274,579 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss:
     
Balance at beginning of period
(7,100)
(3,328)
(3,228)
(Increase) Decrease in unrealized loss on available for sale securities
   during the period, net of deferred taxes
 
1,800 
 
(14)
 
176 
Minimum pension liability, net of deferred taxes
 -   
 148 
(276)
Increase in defined benefit plan liability from the adoption of SFAS No. 158, "Employers'
   Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans - an amendment of
   FASB Statements No. 87, 88, 106, and 132(R)" ("SFAS 158"), net of deferred benefit of $3,246
 
 
 -  
 
 
 (3,906)
 
 
-  
Unrecognized gain of pension and other postretirement obligations, net of deferred tax of $874
1,022 
-  
-  
Balance at end of period
(4,278)
(7,100)
(3,328)
ESOP:
     
Balance at beginning of period
(4,395)
(4,627)
(4,749)
Amortization of earned portion of ESOP stock
231 
232 
122 
Balance at end of period
(4,164)
(4,395)
(4,627)
RRP and Restricted Stock Awards:
     
Balance at beginning of period
(3,452)
(2,979)
(2,612)
Release from treasury stock for restricted stock award shares and RRP and restricted stock award
   shares acquired
(165)
(770)
(571)
Transfer of common stock to treasury upon liquidation of RRP
2,611 
-  
-  
Amortization of earned portion of RRP stock
372 
297 
204 
Balance at end of period
(634)
(3,452)
(2,979)
Common Stock Held by BMP:
     
Balance at beginning of period
(7,941)
(7,941)
(7,348)
Common stock acquired
-  
-  
(593)
Balance at end of period
(7,941)
(7,941)
(7,941)
Treasury Stock:
     
Balance at beginning of period
(179,011)
(168,579)
(157,263)
Release of treasury stock for allocated restricted stock awards and shares acquired by BMP
151 
592 
862 
Transfer of common stock to treasury upon liquidation of RRP
(2,611)
-  
-  
Purchase of treasury shares, at cost
(29,650)
(11,024)
(12,178)
Balance at end of period
(211,121)
(179,011)
(168,579)
       
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
     
Net Income
$22,443 
$30,592 
$36,210 
Increase (Decrease) in Actuarial Gain or Reduction (Increase) in Actuarial Loss on defined benefit plans,
   net of (taxes) benefit of $(123) and $229 during the years ended December 31, 2006 and
   2005, respectively
 
 
-  
 
 
148 
 
 
(276)
Change in pension and other postretirement obligations, net of deferred taxes of $(874) during the year ended
   December 31, 2007
1,022 
-  
-  
Reclassification adjustment for securities sold, net of (taxes) benefit of
   $(489) and $2,143 during the years ended December 31, 2006 and 2005, respectively
 
-   
 
(575)
 
3,033 
Net unrealized securities gain (loss) arising during the period, net of (taxes) benefit of $(1,469),
   $(478) and $2,434 during the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively
 
 1,800 
 
 561 
 
 (2,857)
Comprehensive Income
$25,265 
$30,726 
$36,110 
See notes to consolidated financial statements.

F-

 
 

 

DIME COMMUNITY BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Dollars in thousands)
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
2007
2006
2005
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
     
Net Income
$22,443 
$30,592
$36,210
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities
     
Net  (gain) loss on investment and mortgage backed securities sold
-  
(1,063)
5,176 
Net gain on sale of loans held for sale
(750)
(1,516)
(924)
Net gain on sales and disposals of other assets
-  
(478)
-  
Net depreciation, amortization and accretion
1,252 
1,265 
2,334 
Stock plan compensation expense (excluding ESOP)
372 
296 
206 
ESOP compensation expense
1,674 
1,115 
1,190 
Provision for loan losses
240 
240 
340 
Increase in cash surrender value of BOLI
(1,965)
(1,868)
(1,885)
Deferred income tax provision (credit)
(834)
103 
(649)
Excess tax benefits of stock plans
(174)
(621)
-  
Changes in assets and liabilities:
     
Originations of loans sold during the period
(76,568)
(145,430)
(102,974)
Proceeds from sales of loans held for sale
77,628 
146,646 
108,489 
Decrease (Increase) in other assets
(6,368)
929 
4,247 
Increase in other liabilities
823 
840 
9,633 
Net cash provided by Operating Activities
17,773 
31,050 
61,393 
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
     
Net (increase) decrease  in federal funds sold and other short-term investments
(49,262)
(18,734)
43,277 
Proceeds from maturities of investment securities held-to-maturity
155 
220 
130 
Proceeds from maturities of investment securities available-for-sale
1,000 
17,075 
26,000 
Proceeds from sales of investment securities available-for-sale
-  
3,032 
36,421 
Proceeds from sales and calls of mortgage backed securities held-to-maturity
-  
-  
377 
Proceeds from sales and calls of mortgage backed securities available-for-sale
8,542 
-  
232,230 
Purchases of investment securities available-for-sale
(14,162)
(4,002)
(51,980)
Purchases of mortgage backed securities available-for-sale
(37,992)
-  
(1,493)
Principal collected on mortgage backed securities held-to-maturity
-  
-  
94 
Principal collected on mortgage backed securities available-for-sale
33,329 
39,420 
88,978 
Net increase in loans
(174,029)
(91,789)
(114,979)
Proceeds from the sale of investment property
-  
908 
-  
Proceeds from BOLI benefit payment
631 
-  
-  
Purchases of fixed assets, net
(2,566)
(7,818)
(1,246)
Purchase of Federal Home Loan Bank of New York capital stock
(7,734)
(1,378)
(4,592)
Net cash (used in) provided by  Investing Activities
(242,088)
(63,066)
253,217 
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
     
Net increase (decrease) in due to depositors
171,466 
93,760 
(295,277)
Net increase (decrease) in escrow and other deposits
5,836 
(1,145)
(766)
Increase (Decrease) in securities sold under agreements to repurchase
34,845 
(85,220)
(129)
Proceeds from Federal Home Loan Bank of New York advances
135,000 
40,000 
25,000
Proceeds from exercise of stock options
136 
910 
2,307 
Excess tax benefits of stock plans
174 
621 
-  
Cash dividends re-assumed through liquidation of RRP
958 
-  
-  
Purchase of common stock by the RRP and BMP
-  
(70)
(81)
Cash dividends paid to stockholders and cash disbursed in payment of stock dividends
(19,006)
(19,751)
(19,868)
Purchase of treasury stock
(29,650)
(11,024)
(12,178)
Net cash provided by (used in) Financing Activities
299,759 
18,081 
(300,992)
INCREASE(DECREASE) IN CASH AND DUE FROM BANKS
75,444 
(13,935)
13,618 
CASH AND DUE FROM BANKS, BEGINNING OF PERIOD
26,264 
40,199 
26,581 
CASH AND DUE FROM BANKS, END OF PERIOD
$101,708 
$26,264 
$40,199 
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
     
Cash paid for income taxes
$20,622 
$15,531 
$8,654 
Cash paid for interest
$110,508 
$93,530 
$76,975 
Decrease (Increase) in unrealized loss on available-for-sale securities, net of taxes
$1,800 
$(14)
$176 
Change in minimum pension liability, net of taxes
1,022 
148 
$(276)
Increase in defined benefit plan liability from adoption of SFAS 158, net of taxes
$-  
$(3,906)
$-  
See notes to consolidated financial statements.

F-

 
 

 


DIME COMMUNITY BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 (Dollars In Thousands except for share amounts)

1.   NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Nature of Operations - Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. (the "Holding Company" and together with its direct and indirect subsidiaries, the "Company") is a Delaware corporation organized by The Dime Savings Bank of Williamsburgh (the "Bank") for the purpose of acquiring all of the capital stock of the Bank issued in the Bank's conversion to stock ownership on June 26, 1996.  At December 31, 2007, the significant assets of the Holding Company were the capital stock of the Bank, the Holding Company's loan to the ESOP and investments retained by the Holding Company.  The liabilities of the Holding Company were comprised primarily of a $25,000 subordinated note payable maturing in May 2010 and $72,165 of trust preferred securities payable maturing in 2034.  The Company is subject to the financial reporting requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

The Bank was originally founded in 1864 as a New York State-chartered mutual savings bank.  In November 1995, the Bank converted to a federally chartered stock savings bank.  The Bank has been a community-oriented financial institution providing financial services and loans for housing within its market areas.  The Bank maintains its headquarters in the Williamsburg section of the borough of Brooklyn, New York.  The Bank has twenty one retail banking offices located throughout the boroughs of Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx, and in Nassau County, New York.

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - The accounting and reporting policies of the Company conform to accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP").  The following is a description of the significant policies.

Principles of Consolidation - The accompanying 2007, 2006 and 2005 consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Holding Company, and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, the Bank and 842 Manhattan Avenue Corporation.  At December 31, 2005,  842 Manhattan Avenue Corporation owned and managed a real estate property which housed a former branch office of Financial Federal Savings Bank, F.S.B. ("FFSB"), a subsidiary of Financial Bancorp, Inc. ("FIBC"), which the Holding Company acquired on January 21, 1999.  The property was sold in 2006, and as a result, 842 Manhattan Corporation Avenue held no real estate at December 31, 2007.  All financial statements presented also include the accounts of the Bank's five wholly-owned subsidiaries, Boulevard Funding Corp. (''BFC''), Havemeyer Investments, Inc., DSBW Preferred Funding Corporation ("DPFC"), DSBW Residential Preferred Funding Corporation ("DRPFC") and Dime Reinvestment Company ("DRC").  DRPFC, established in March 1998, invests in real estate loans and is intended to qualify as a real estate investment trust for federal tax purposes.  BFC was established in order to invest in real estate joint ventures and other real estate assets, and had some minor financial investments as of December 31, 2007.  DPFC was established in March 1998, invests in multifamily and commercial real estate loans and is intended to qualify as a real estate investment trust for federal tax purposes.  DRC was established in 2004 in order to function as a Qualified Community Development Entity as defined in the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code").  DRC is currently inactive.  All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.  The financial statements presented for the years ended December 31, 2005 and 2006 and for the period January 1, 2007 through June 30, 2007, include the accounts of Havemeyer Equities Corp. (''HEC'').  HEC was originally established in order to invest in real estate joint ventures and other real estate assets.  In June 1998, HEC assumed direct ownership of DPFC.  HEC ceased operations effective the close of business on June 30, 2007, and was legally dissolved prior to December 31, 2007.  All of the assets and liabilities of HEC, including the direct ownership of DPFC, were assumed by the Bank.

Federal funds sold and short-term investments - Purchases and sales of federal funds sold and other short-term investments are recorded on trade date.  Federal funds sold and other short-term investments are carried at cost, which approximates market value due to the short-term nature of the investment.

Investment Securities and Mortgage-Backed Securities - Purchases and sales of investment and mortgage-backed securities are recorded on trade date.  Gains and losses on sales of investment and mortgage-backed securities are recorded on the specific identification basis.

Debt and equity securities that have readily determinable fair values are carried at fair value unless they are held-to-maturity. Debt securities are classified as held-to-maturity and carried at amortized cost only if the Company has a positive intent and ability to hold them to maturity.  If not classified as held-to-maturity, such securities are classified as securities available-for-sale or as trading securities. Unrealized holding gains or losses on securities available-for-sale are excluded from net income and reported net of income taxes as other comprehensive income.  At December 31, 2007 and 2006, all equity securities were classified as available-for-sale.

Neither the Holding Company nor the Bank has acquired securities for the purpose of engaging in trading activities.

The Company conducts a quarterly review and evaluation of its securities portfolio taking into account the severity and duration of a decline in market value, as well as its intent with regard to the securities in order to determine if a decline in market value of any security below its amortized cost basis is other than temporary. If such decline is deemed other than temporary, the carrying amount of the security is adjusted through a charge to net income in the amount of the decline in value.

Loans Held for Sale - Mortgage loans originated and intended for sale in the secondary market are carried at the lower of aggregate cost or estimated fair value.  Loans sold are generally sold with servicing rights retained.

Allowance for Loan Losses - The Company provides a valuation allowance for estimated losses inherent in the loan portfolio.  The valuation allowance for estimated losses on loans is based on the Bank's past loan loss experience, known and inherent risks in the portfolio, existing adverse situations which may affect a borrower's ability to repay, estimated value of underlying collateral and current economic conditions in the Bank's lending area. The allowance is increased by provisions for loan losses charged to operations and is reduced by charge-offs, net of recoveries.  Although management uses available information to estimate losses on loans, future additions to, or reductions in, the allowance may be necessary based on changes in economic conditions beyond management's control. Management believes, based upon all relevant and available information, that the allowance for loan losses is appropriate to absorb losses inherent in the portfolio.

Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") 114, ''Accounting by Creditors for Impairment of a Loan,'' as amended by SFAS 118, "Accounting by Creditors for Impairment of a Loan - Income Recognition and Disclosures, an Amendment of FASB Statement No. 114," ("Amended SFAS 114"), requires all creditors to account for impaired loans, except those loans that are accounted for at fair value or at the lower of cost or fair value, at the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan's effective interest rate.  As an expedient, creditors may account for impaired loans at the fair value of the collateral or at the observable market price of the loan if one exists.  If the estimated fair value of an impaired loan is less than the recorded amount, a specific valuation allowance is established.  If the impairment is considered to be permanent, a write-down is charged against the allowance for loan losses.  In accordance with Amended SFAS 114, homogeneous loans are not individually considered for impairment.  The Company considers individual one- to four-family residential mortgage and cooperative apartment loans having a balance of $417 or less and all consumer loans to be small balance homogenous loan pools and, accordingly, not covered by Amended SFAS 114.

A reserve is also recorded related to certain multifamily residential real estate loans sold with partial recourse under an agreement with the Federal National Mortgage Association ("FNMA").  This reserve, which is included in other liabilities, is determined in a manner similar to the Company's allowance for loan losses related to loans held in portfolio.

Loans - Loans are reported at the principal amount outstanding, net of unearned fees or costs and the allowance for loan losses.  Interest income on loans is recorded using the level yield method.  Under this method, discount accretion and premium amortization are included in interest income.  Loan origination fees and certain direct loan origination costs are deferred and amortized as a yield adjustment over the contractual loan terms.

Accrual of interest is discontinued on loans considered impaired and ninety days past due.  A loan is considered impaired when it is probable that all contractual amounts due will not be collected in accordance with the terms of the loan.  Any interest accrued to income in the year that interest accruals are discontinued  is reversed. Payments on nonaccrual loans are generally applied initially to principal.  Management may elect to continue the accrual of interest when a loan is in the process of collection and the estimated fair value of the collateral is sufficient to satisfy the outstanding principal balance (including any outstanding advances made related to the loan) and accrued interest.  Loans are returned to accrual status once the doubt concerning collectibility has been removed and the borrower has demonstrated performance in accordance with the loan terms and conditions for a period of at least twelve consecutive months.

Mortgage Servicing Rights - The cost of mortgage loans sold with servicing rights retained by the Bank is allocated between the loans and the servicing rights based on their estimated fair values at the time of the loan sale. Servicing assets are carried at the lower of cost or fair value and are amortized in proportion to, and over the period of, anticipated net servicing income.   The Company adopted SFAS No. 156, "Accounting for Servicing of Financial Assets" ("SFAS 156") effective January 1, 2007.  SFAS 156 requires all separately recognized mortgage servicing rights ("MSR") to be initially measured at fair value, if practicable.  The estimated fair value of loan servicing assets is determined by calculating the present value of estimated future net servicing cash flows, using assumptions of prepayments, defaults, servicing costs and discount rates derived based upon actual historical results for the Bank, or, in the absence of such data, from historical results for the Bank's peers. Capitalized loan servicing assets are stratified based on predominant risk characteristics of the underlying loans (i.e. collateral, interest rate, servicing spread and maturity) for the purpose of evaluating impairment. A valuation allowance is then established in the event the recorded value of an individual stratum exceeds its fair value.  Third party valuations of the loan servicing asset are performed on a quarterly basis, and were performed as of both December 31, 2007 and 2006.  In accordance with the provisions of SFAS 156, the Bank elected to continue its practice of amortizing its MSR in proportion to and over the period of estimated net servicing income or net servicing loss.

Other Real Estate Owned, Net - Properties acquired as a result of foreclosure on a mortgage loan or a deed in lieu of foreclosure are classified as other real estate owned ("OREO") and are recorded at the lower of the recorded investment in the related loan or the fair value of the property on the date of acquisition, with any resulting write down charged to the allowance for loan losses and any disposition expenses charged to the valuation allowance for possible losses on OREO.  Subsequent write downs are charged directly to operating expenses.  The Company did not possess any OREO during the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006.

Premises and Fixed Assets, Net - Land is stated at original cost. Buildings and furniture, fixtures and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is computed by the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the properties as follows:

Buildings
 
2.22% to 2.50% per year
Furniture, fixtures and equipment
 
10% per year
Computer equipment
 
33.33% per year

Leasehold improvements are amortized over the remaining non-cancelable terms of the related leases.

Earnings Per Share ("EPS") - EPS are calculated and reported in accordance with SFAS 128, "Earnings Per Share.''  SFAS 128 requires disclosure of basic EPS and diluted EPS for entities with complex capital structures on the face of the income statement, along with a reconciliation of the numerator and denominator of basic and diluted EPS.

Basic EPS is computed by dividing net income by the weighted-average common shares outstanding during the year (weighted average common shares are adjusted to include vested RRP and restricted stock award shares and allocated ESOP shares).  Diluted EPS is computed using the same method as basic EPS, but reflects the potential dilution that would occur if unvested RRP and restricted stock award shares became vested, unallocated ESOP shares became committed for allocation, or "in the money" stock options were exercised and converted into common stock.

F-

 
 

 


The following is a reconciliation of the numerator and denominator of basic EPS and diluted EPS for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005:

 
Year Ended December 31,
 
2007
2006
2005
Numerator:
     
Net Income per the Consolidated Statements
   of Operations
 
$22,443 
 
$30,592 
 
$36,210 
Denominator:
     
Weighted average shares outstanding utilized in the
   calculation of basic EPS
 
33,490,420 
 
34,872,421 
 
35,121,413 
       
Unvested shares of RRP and restricted stock awards
66,666 
75,023 
43,022 
Common stock equivalents resulting from the
   dilutive effect of "in-the-money" stock options
 
112,170 
 
250,602 
 
600,468 
Anti-dilutive effect of tax benefits associated with
   "in-the-money" non-qualified stock options
 
(27,381)
 
(79,918)
 
(204,457)
Weighted average shares outstanding utilized in the
   calculation of diluted EPS
 
33,641,875 
 
35,118,128 
 
35,560,446 

Common stock equivalents resulting from the dilutive effect of "in-the-money" stock options are calculated based upon the excess of the average market value of the Company's common stock over the exercise price of outstanding options.

There were approximately 2,053,104 weighted average options, 1,077,676 weighted average options, and 759,100 weighted average options for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006, and 2005, respectively, that were not considered in the calculation of diluted EPS since their exercise prices exceeded the average market price during the relevant period.

Accounting for Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets – SFAS 142 "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets," established  standards for goodwill acquired in a business combination.  SFAS 142 eliminated amortization of goodwill and instead required the performance of a transitional goodwill impairment test six months from the date of adoption and at least annually thereafter.  As of the July 1, 2001 date of adoption of SFAS 142, the Company had goodwill totaling $55.6 million.

The Company performed impairment tests of goodwill as of December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005. In each instance, the Company concluded that no potential impairment of goodwill existed.  No events have occurred or circumstances changed subsequent to December 31, 2007 that would reduce the fair value of the Company's reporting unit below its carrying value.  Such events or changes in circumstances would require an immediate impairment test to be performed in accordance with SFAS 142.  In conjunction with the adoption of SFAS 142, the Company also re-assessed the useful lives and classifications of its identifiable intangible assets and determined that they remained appropriate.

Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the periods presented are as follows:

 
Year Ended December 31,
 
2007
2006
2005
Original Amount
$73,107 
$73,107 
$73,107 
Accumulated Amortization
(17,469)
(17,469)
(17,469)
Net Carrying Value
$55,638 
$55,638 
$55,638 

Income Taxes - Income taxes are accounted for in accordance with SFAS 109, "Accounting for Income Taxes," which requires that deferred taxes be provided for temporary differences between the book and tax bases of assets and liabilities.  A valuation allowance is recognized against deferred tax assets in the event that it is more likely than not that the deferred tax asset will not be fully realized.

The Company adopted FIN 48 on January 1, 2007.  Provisions of FIN 48 were clarified by FASB Staff Position FIN 48-1 "Definition of Settlement in FASB Interpretation No. 48."  Please refer to Note 14 for a discussion of FIN 48.

Cash and Cash Equivalents - For purposes of the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, the Company considers cash and due from banks to be cash equivalents.

Employee Benefits – The Bank maintains the Retirement Plan of The Dime Savings Bank of Williamsburgh (the "Employee Retirement Plan") and The Dime Savings Bank of Williamsburgh 401(k) Plan [the "401(k) Plan"] for substantially all of its employees, both of which are tax qualified under the Code.

The Bank also maintains the Postretirement Welfare Plan of The Dime Savings Bank of Williamsburgh (the "Postretirement Benefit Plan."), providing additional postretirement benefits to employees that are recorded in accordance with SFAS 106, ''Employers' Accounting for Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions.''  SFAS 106 requires accrual of postretirement benefits (such as health care benefits) during the years an employee provides services.

The Company adopted SFAS 158 effective December 31, 2006.  SFAS 158 requires an employer sponsoring a single employer defined benefit plan to do the following: (1) recognize the funded status of a benefit plan in its statements of financial condition, measured as the difference between plan assets at fair value (with limited exceptions) and the benefit obligation. For a pension plan, the benefit obligation is the projected benefit obligation; for any other postretirement benefit plan, such as a retiree health care plan, the benefit obligation is the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation; (2) recognize as a component of other comprehensive income, net of tax, the gains or losses and prior service costs or credits that arise during the period but are not recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost pursuant to SFAS 87, "Employers’ Accounting for Pensions," or SFAS 106, "Employers’ Accounting for Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions."  Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income, including the gains or losses, prior service costs or credits, and the transition asset or obligation remaining from the initial application of SFAS 87 and SFAS 106, are adjusted as they are subsequently recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost pursuant to the recognition and amortization provisions of those Statements; (3) measure defined benefit plan assets and obligations as of the date of the employer’s fiscal year-end statements of financial condition (with limited exceptions); and (4) disclose in the notes to financial statements additional information about certain effects on net periodic benefit cost for the next fiscal year that arise from delayed recognition of the gains or losses, prior service costs or credits, and transition asset or obligation.  The effect of adoption of SFAS 158 upon the Company's consolidated financial condition is summarized as follows.

 
Statement of Condition Line Item
 
Balance Prior to Adoption of SFAS 158
 
Increase (Decrease) from Adoption of   SFAS 158      
 
Balance After Adoption of SFAS 158  
Prepaid pension asset (other assets)
 
$8,338 
 
(6,582)
 
$1,756 
Deferred income tax asset (other assets)
 
12,955 
 
3,246 
 
16,444 
Defined benefit plan liabilities (other liabilities)
 
        8,584 
 
570 
 
9,154 
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
 
         (3,194)
 
(3,906)
 
(7,100)

Effective January 1, 2008, in compliance with applicable provisions of SFAS 158, the Company changed the measurement date for its defined benefit plans from October 1st to December 31st.  As a result of this change, the Company recorded a transition adjustment on January 1, 2008 that reduced its consolidated stockholders equity by $23.

The Holding Company and Bank maintain the ESOP.  Compensation expense related to the ESOP is recorded in accordance with Statement of Position No. 93-6, which requires the compensation expense to be recorded during the period in which the shares become committed to be released to participants.  The compensation expense is measured based upon the fair market value of the stock during the period, and, to the extent that the fair value of the shares committed to be released differs from the original cost of such shares, the difference is recorded as an adjustment to additional paid-in capital.

The Holding Company and Bank maintain the Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. 1996 Stock Option Plan for Outside Directors, Officers and Employees (the "1996 Stock Option Plan"), the Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. 2001 Stock Option Plan for Outside Directors, Officers and Employees (the "2001 Stock Option Plan") and the Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. 2004 Stock Incentive Plan for Outside Directors, Officers and Employees (the "2004 Stock Incentive Plan," and collectively the "Stock Plans"); which are discussed more fully in Note 15 and which prior to January 1, 2006, were subject to the accounting requirements of SFAS 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation," as amended by SFAS 148 "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation – Transition and Disclosures, an Amendment of FASB Statement No. 123" (collectively "SFAS 123").  SFAS 123 encouraged, but did not require, companies to record compensation cost for stock-based employee compensation plans at fair value.  Until January 1, 2006, the Company accounted for stock-based compensation under the Stock Plans using the intrinsic value recognition and measurement principles of Accounting Principles Board Opinion 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees" ("APB 25"), and related interpretations.  Accordingly, no stock-based compensation cost was reflected in net income for stock options, since, for all options granted under the Stock Plans, the market value of the underlying common stock on the date of grant equaled the exercise price of the common stock.

In December 2004, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued SFAS No. 123 (revised 2004), "Share-Based Payment", ("SFAS 123R"), addressing the accounting for share-based payment transactions (e.g., stock options and awards of restricted stock) in which an employer receives employee services in exchange for equity securities of the company or liabilities that are based on the fair value of the company’s equity securities.  SFAS 123R supersedes APB 25, generally requiring that share based payments be accounted for using a fair value based method and the recording of compensation expense in lieu of optional pro forma disclosure.

On March 29, 2005, the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") released Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 107 ("SAB No. 107"), providing guidance on several technical issues regarding the required adoption of SFAS 123R.  The Company adopted SFAS 123R in conjunction with SAB No. 107 on January 1, 2006.

On December 30, 2005, vesting was accelerated for 1,141,813 outstanding unvested stock options awarded to outside directors, officers and employees of the Company or Bank under the Stock Plans.  As a result of the accelerated vesting, all of the 1,141,813 stock options became immediately exercisable.  The acceleration of vesting was undertaken in order to eliminate the compensation expense that the Company would otherwise be required to recognize with respect to these unvested stock options upon adopting SFAS 123R.  Of the 1,141,813 stock options for which vesting was accelerated, 290,934, or 25%, were "in-the money" and possessed an exercise price of $13.16 per share.  The remaining accelerated options had exercise prices ranging from $15.10 to $19.90 per share, and vesting periods ranging from January 2006 to May 2009.  The Company incurred a pre-tax charge of approximately $5 related to the acceleration of vesting.

Since all stock options outstanding were fully vested on December 30, 2005 and there were no grants of stock options during the year ended December 31, 2006, there was no recorded expense related to stock options during the years ended December 31, 2006 and 2005.    Grants of stock options during the year ended December 31, 2007 were accounted for at fair value in accordance with SFAS 123R.

Grants of restricted stock awards during the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005 were accounted for at fair value in accordance with SFAS 123R.

The following table illustrates the effect on net income and EPS had the Company applied the fair value recognition provisions of SFAS 123R to stock-based employee compensation for the Stock Plans and RRP during the year ended December 31, 2005 and reflects $1,945 of additional pro-forma expense during the year ended December 31, 2005 related to the acceleration of vesting.

 
Year Ended December 31, 2005
Net income, as reported
$36,210 
Less:  Excess stock-based compensation expense determined under the fair value method
           over the stock-based compensation recorded for all Stock Plans, net of applicable taxes
 
 (3,439)
Pro forma net income
$32,771 
   
Earnings per share
 
Basic, as reported
$1.03 
Basic, pro forma
0.93 
   
Diluted, as reported
1.02 
Diluted, pro forma
0.92 


Derivative Instruments - All derivatives are recognized at fair value as either assets or liabilities in the consolidated statements of financial condition.  A derivative may be designated as a hedge against exposure to changes in either: (i) the fair value of a recognized asset, liability or firm commitment, (ii) cash flows of a recognized or forecasted transaction, or (iii) foreign currencies of a net investment in foreign operations, firm commitments, available-for-sale securities or a forecasted transaction.  Depending upon the effectiveness of the hedge and/or the transaction being hedged, any fluctuations in the fair value of the derivative instrument are required to be either recognized in earnings in the current year, deferred to future periods, or recognized in other comprehensive income.  Changes in the fair value of all derivative instruments not receiving hedge accounting recognition are recorded in current year earnings.

During the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005, neither the Holding Company nor the Bank held any derivative instruments or any embedded derivative instruments that required bifurcation.

BOLI – BOLI is carried at its contract value.  Increases in the contract value are recorded as non-interest income in the consolidated statements of operations and insurance proceeds received are recorded as a reduction of the contract value.

Comprehensive Income - Comprehensive income for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005 was determined in accordance with SFAS 130, "Reporting Comprehensive Income.''  Comprehensive income includes changes in the unrealized gain or loss on available for sale securities and minimum pension liability, which, under GAAP, bypass net income and are typically reported as components of stockholders' equity.  All comprehensive income adjustment items are presented net of applicable tax effect.

Disclosures About Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information - The Company's consolidated financial statements reflect the adoption of SFAS 131, "Disclosures About Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information."  SFAS 131 establishes standards for the manner in which public business enterprises report information about operating segments in annual financial statements, requires that the enterprises report selected information about operating segments and establishes standards for related disclosure about products and services, geographic areas, and major customers.

The Company has one reportable segment, "Community Banking."  All of the Company's activities are interrelated, and each activity is dependent and assessed based on the manner in which it supports the other activities of the Company.  For example, lending is dependent upon the ability of the Bank to fund itself with retail deposits and other borrowings and to manage interest rate and credit risk.  Accordingly, all significant operating decisions are based upon analysis of the Company as one operating segment or unit.  The Chief Executive Officer is considered the chief decision maker for this reportable segment.

For the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005, there was no customer that accounted for more than 10% of the Company's consolidated revenue.

Recently Issued Accounting Standards

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141 (revised 2007), "Business Combinations" ("SFAS 141R"), which replaces FASB Statement No. 141. SFAS 141R establishes principles and requirements governing the manner in which  an acquirer of a business recognizes and measures in its financial statements the identifiable assets acquired, liabilities assumed, any non-controlling interest in the acquiree, and goodwill acquired. SFAS 141R also establishes disclosure requirements which will enable users to evaluate the nature and financial effects of the business combination. SFAS 141R is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008.  The Company is currently evaluating the potential impact, if any, of the adoption of FAS 141R on its financial statements.

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 160, "Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statement—amendments of ARB No. 51." ("SFAS 160").  SFAS 160 requires that, for purposes of accounting and reporting, minority interests be re-characterized as non-controlling interests and classified as a component of equity.  SFAS 160 also requires financial reporting disclosures that clearly identify and distinguish between the interests of the parent and the non-controlling owners. SFAS 160 applies to all entities that prepare consolidated financial statements, except not-for-profit organizations, however, will affect only those entities that have an outstanding non-controlling interest in one or more subsidiaries or that deconsolidate a subsidiary.  SFAS 160 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008.  Adoption of SFAS 160 is not expected to have a material impact upon the Company's consolidated financial condition or results of operations.

In November 2007, the SEC issued Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 109, "Written Loan Commitments Recorded at Fair Value Through Earnings." ("SAB 109").  SAB 109 provides guidance on accounting for loan commitments recorded at fair value under GAAP. SAB 109 supersedes SAB No. 105, "Application of Accounting Principles to Loan Commitments."  SAB 109 requires that the expected net future cash flows related to the associated servicing of a loan be included in the measurement of all written loan commitments that are accounted for at fair value. The provisions of SAB 109 are applicable on a prospective basis to written loan commitments recorded at fair value that are issued or modified in fiscal quarters beginning after December 15, 2007. SAB 109 is not expected to have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial condition or results of operations.

In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, "The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities" ("SFAS 159").  SFAS 159 permits companies to choose to measure many financial instruments and certain other items at fair value.  SFAS 159 seeks to improve the overall quality of financial reporting by providing companies the opportunity to mitigate volatility in reported earnings caused by measuring related assets and liabilities differently without requiring the application of complex hedge accounting provisions.  The Company adopted SFAS 159 on January 1, 2008.  Adoption of SFAS 159 did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial condition or results of operations.

In September 2006, the Emerging Issues Task Force reached a consensus on Issue 06-4, "Accounting for Deferred Compensation and Postretirement Benefit Aspects of Endorsement Split-Dollar Life Insurance Arrangements" ("EITF-06-4"). Under EITF 06-4, an employer should recognize a liability for future benefits associated with an endorsement split-dollar life insurance arrangement based on the substantive agreement with the employee.  If the substance of these benefits is deemed comparable to benefits of a postretirement benefit plan, the liability associated with the endorsement split-dollar life insurance arrangement should be measured in accordance with SFAS 106. If the endorsement split-dollar life insurance arrangement is, in substance, an individual deferred compensation contract, then the liability should be measured in accordance with Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 12, "Omnibus Opinion-1967." ("APB 12").

Under EITF 06-4, if the employer has agreed to maintain a life insurance policy during the employee's retirement, the cost of the insurance policy during postretirement periods should be accrued in accordance with either SFAS 106 or APB 12. Similarly, if the employer has agreed to provide the employee with a death benefit, the employer should accrue, over the service period, a liability for the actuarial present value of the future death benefit as of the employee's expected retirement date, in accordance with either SFAS 106 or APB 12.  The Company adopted EITF 06-4 on January 1, 2008.  As a result of the adoption of EITF 06-4, the Company recorded a reduction of $528 to the Company's consolidated stockholders' equity on January 1, 2008.

In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, "Fair Value Measurements" ("SFAS 157"), which defined fair value, established a framework for measuring fair value under GAAP, and expanded disclosures about fair value measurements.  Other current accounting pronouncements that require or permit fair value measurements will require application of SFAS 157.  SFAS 157 does not require any new fair value measurements, however, changes the definition of, and methods used to measure, fair value.  SFAS 157 emphasizes fair value as a market-based, not entity-specific, measurement. Under SFAS 157, a fair value measurement should be based on the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability.  SFAS 157 further establishes a fair value hierarchy that distinguishes between (i) market participant assumptions developed based on market data obtained from sources independent of the reporting entity (observable inputs), and (ii) the reporting entity’s own assumptions about market participant assumptions developed based on the best information available in the circumstances. SFAS 157 also expands disclosures about the use of fair value to measure assets and liabilities in interim and annual periods subsequent to initial recognition.  The Company adopted SFAS 157 on January 1, 2008.  Adoption of SFAS 157 did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial condition or results of operations.

In September 2006, the Emerging Issues Task Force reached a consensus on Issue 06-5, "Accounting for Purchases of Life Insurance-Determining the Amount That Could Be Realized in Accordance with FASB Technical Bulletin No. 85-4" ("EITF No. 06-5"). EITF No. 06-5 requires that a life insurance policyholder consider contractual limitations in the policy when determining the realizable amount of the insurance contract. In addition, EITF No. 06-5 requires that amounts recoverable by the policyholder at the discretion of the insurance company be excluded from the amount that could be realized under the insurance contract.   EITF No. 06-5 further requires that amounts recoverable by the policyholder in periods beyond one year from the surrender of the policy be recognized at a value discounted under a present value of cash flows method.  EITF No. 06-5 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2006 and requires that the effects of adoption be recognized by a change in accounting principle through either (i) a cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings as of the beginning of the year of adoption, or (ii) retrospective application to all prior periods.  Adoption of EITF No. 06-5 did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial condition or results of operations.

In February 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 155, "Accounting for Certain Hybrid Financial Instruments" ("SFAS 155").  SFAS 155 amends both SFAS No. 133, "Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities," and SFAS No. 140, "Accounting for Transfers and Servicing of Financial Assets and Extinguishments of Liabilities." Among other matters, SFAS 155 resolves issues addressed in SFAS 133 Implementation Issue No. D1, "Application of Statement 133 to Beneficial Interests in Securitized Financial Assets." SFAS 155 permits fair value re-measurement for any hybrid financial instrument that contains an embedded derivative that otherwise would require bifurcation, clarifies which interest-only strips and principal-only strips are not subject to the requirements of SFAS No. 133, establishes a requirement to evaluate interests in securitized financial assets to identify interests that are freestanding derivatives or that are hybrid financial instruments that contain an embedded derivative requiring bifurcation, clarifies that concentrations of credit risk in the form of subordination are not embedded derivatives, and amends SFAS 140 to eliminate the prohibition on a qualifying special purpose entity against holding a derivative financial instrument that pertains to a beneficial interest other than another derivative financial instrument.  SFAS 155 is effective for all financial instruments acquired, issued, or subject to a re-measurement event occurring during fiscal years commencing after September 15, 2006.   Adoption of SFAS 155 did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial condition or results of operations.

Use of Estimates in the Preparation of the Consolidated Financial Statements - The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Areas in the accompanying consolidated financial statements where estimates are significant include the allowance for loans losses, valuation of MSR, asset impairment adjustments related to the valuation of goodwill, and other than temporary impairments of securities, loan income recognition, the fair value of financial instruments, recognition of deferred tax asset and unrecognized tax benefits and the accounting for defined benefit plans sponsored by the Company.

Reclassification –  Certain amounts as of December 31, 2006 and 2005 have been reclassified to conform to their presentation as of and for the year ended December 31, 2007.  In particular, effective January 1, 2006, the Company reclassified prepayment and late charge fees on loans in all periods presented from non-interest income into interest income as a result of a classification change made by the Office of Thrift Supervision ("OTS").  The Company now recognizes all prepayment and late charge fees on loans as net interest income instead of non-interest income in both its financial and regulatory reports.  Prepayment fee and late charge income reclassified from non-interest income to interest income totaled $5,517 during the year ended December 31, 2005.

2.   CONVERSION TO STOCK FORM OF OWNERSHIP

On November 2, 1995, the Board of Directors of the Bank adopted a Plan of Conversion to convert from mutual to stock form of ownership.  At the time of conversion, the Bank established a liquidation account in an amount equal to the retained earnings of the Bank as of the date of the most recent financial statements contained in the final conversion prospectus. The liquidation account is reduced annually to the extent that eligible account holders have reduced their qualifying deposits as of each anniversary date. Subsequent increases in deposits do not restore an eligible account holder's interest in the liquidation account. In the event of a complete liquidation, each eligible account holder will be entitled to receive a distribution from the liquidation account in an amount proportionate to the adjusted qualifying balances on the date of liquidation for accounts held at  conversion.

The Holding Company acquired Conestoga Bancorp, Inc. ("Conestoga") on June 26, 1996.  The liquidation account previously established by Conestoga's subsidiary, Pioneer Savings Bank, F.S.B., during its initial public offering in March 1993, was assumed by the Company in the acquisition.

The Holding Company acquired FIBC on January 21, 1999.  The liquidation account previously established by FIBC's subsidiary, FFSB, during its initial public offering, was assumed by the Company in the acquisition.

The Holding Company may not declare or pay cash dividends on, or repurchase any of, its shares of common stock if the effect thereof would cause stockholders' equity to be reduced below either applicable regulatory capital maintenance requirements, or the amount of the liquidation account, or if such declaration or payment or repurchase would otherwise violate regulatory requirements.

3.   INVESTMENT SECURITIES HELD-TO-MATURITY AND AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE

The amortized cost, gross unrealized gains and losses and estimated fair value of investment securities held-to-maturity at December 31, 2007 were as follows:

 
Investment Securities Held-to-Maturity   
     
 
 
Amortized
Cost
Gross Unrealized Gains
Gross Unrealized
(Losses)
 
Estimated
Fair Value
Debt Securities:
       
Obligations of state and political
   subdivisions, maturities of one-to-five years
 
$80
 
$- 
 
$-  
 
$80

The amortized/historical cost, gross unrealized gains and losses and estimated fair value of investment securities available-for-sale at December 31, 2007 were as follows:

 
Investment Securities Available-for-Sale
     
 
Amortized/ Historical
Cost
Gross Unrealized Gains
Gross Unrealized
(Losses)
 
Estimated
Fair Value
Debt securities:
       
Municipal agencies
$9,951
$94
$(17)
$10,028
Corporate and other
17,177
1
(223)
16,955
Total debt securities
27,128
95
(240)
26,983
Equity securities
7,573
111
(572)
7,112
 
$34,701
$206
$(812)
$34,095

The amortized cost and estimated fair value of the debt securities component of investment securities available-for-sale at December 31, 2007, by contractual maturity, are shown below. Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because issuers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment fees.



 
Amortized
Cost   
Estimated
Fair Value
Due in one year or less
$5,218
$5,190
Due after one year through five years
348
351
Due after five year through ten years
9,603
9,677
Due after ten years
11,959
11,765
 
$27,128
$26,983

The following summarizes the gross unrealized losses and fair value of investment securities available-for-sale as of December 31, 2007, aggregated by investment category and the length of time that the securities were in a continuous unrealized loss position:

 
Less than 12
Months Consecutive
Unrealized Losses
12 Months or More
Consecutive
Unrealized Losses
 
 
Total
 
Fair Value
Gross Unrealized Losses
Fair Value
Gross Unrealized Loss
Fair Value
Gross Unrealized Losses
Municipal agencies
$2,679
$17
$2,679
$17
Corporate securities
15,512
223
15,512
223
Equity securities
1,245
58 
$3,213
$514
4,458
572
 
$19,436
$298
$3,213
$514
$22,649
$812

At December 31, 2007, the Company had two investment security positions that possessed 12 months or more of consecutive unrealized losses, one of which was a diversified mutual fund investment.  The other security was a minor equity investment in a financial institution that possessed an unrealized loss of less than $2 as of December 31, 2007.  Management does not believe that any of the unrealized losses in the above table qualified as other-than temporary impairments at December 31, 2007.  In making this determination, management considered the severity and duration of the loss, as well as management's intent and ability to hold the security until substantial recovery of the loss.  Management also has no current intention to dispose of these investments.

During the year ended December 31, 2007, there were no sales of investment securities available-for-sale.

The amortized cost, gross unrealized gains and losses and estimated fair value of investment securities held-to-maturity at December 31, 2006 were as follows:

 
Investment Securities Held-to-Maturity   
     
 
 
Amortized
Cost
Gross Unrealized Gains
Gross Unrealized
(Losses)
 
Estimated
Fair Value
Debt Securities:
       
Obligations of state and political
   subdivisions, maturities of one-to-five years
 
$235
 
$- 
 
$-  
 
$235

The amortized/historical cost, gross unrealized gains and losses and estimated fair value of investment securities available-for-sale at December 31, 2006 were as follows:

 
Investment Securities Available-for-Sale
     
 
Amortized/ Historical
Cost
Gross Unrealized Gains
Gross Unrealized
(Losses)
 
Estimated
Fair Value
Debt securities:
       
Corporate and other
$22,478
$123
$(1)
$22,600
Total debt securities
22,478
123
(1)
22,600
Equity securities
7,025
181
(258)
6,948
 
$29,503
$304
$(259)
$29,548

The amortized cost and estimated fair value of the debt securities component of investment securities available-for-sale at December 31, 2006, by contractual maturity, are shown below. Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because issuers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment fees.

 
Amortized
Cost
Estimated
Fair Value
Due in one year or less
$1,000
$999
Due after one year through five years
982
984
Due after ten years
20,496
20,617
 
$22,478
$22,600


F-

 
 

 

The following summarizes the gross unrealized losses and fair value of investment securities available-for-sale as of December 31, 2006, aggregated by investment category and the length of time that the securities were in a continuous unrealized loss position:

 
Less than 12
Months Consecutive
Unrealized Losses
12 Months or More
Consecutive
Unrealized Losses
 
 
Total
 
 
Fair Value
Gross Unrealized Losses
 
Fair Value
Gross Unrealized Loss
 
Fair Value
Gross Unrealized Losses
Debt securities:
           
Corporate securities
999
1
999
1
Equity securities
4,354
257
4
1
4,358
258
 
$4,354
$257
$1,003
$2
$5,357
$259

At December 31, 2006, the Company had four investment security positions that possessed 12 months or more of consecutive unrealized losses.  One of the four securities matured and was paid in full on January 15, 2007.  Two of the three remaining securities were comprised of diversified mutual fund investments.  The final security was a minor equity investment in a financial institution that possessed an unrealized loss of less than $1 as of December 31, 2006.  Management does not believe that any of the unrealized losses in the above table qualified as other-than temporary impairments at December 31, 2006.  In making this determination, management considered the severity and duration of the loss, as well as management's intent and ability to hold the security until substantial recovery of the loss.  Management also has no current intention to dispose of these investments.

During the year ended December 31, 2006, proceeds from the sale of investment securities available-for-sale totaled $3,032.  A net gain of $1,063 was recorded on these sales.

4.   MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE

The amortized cost, gross unrealized gains and losses and estimated fair value of MBS available-for-sale at December 31, 2007 were as follows:

 
Mortgage-Backed Securities Available-for-Sale
 
 
Amortized
Cost
Gross Unrealized Gains
Gross Unrealized
(Losses)
 
Estimated
Fair Value
Collateralized mortgage obligations ("CMOs")
$119,386
$- 
$(2,158)
$117,228
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation
  pass-through certificates
 
31,174
 
437
 
 
31,611
FNMA pass-through certificates
12,677
77
(108)
12,646
Governmental National Mortgage Association
   ("GNMA") pass-through certificates
 
1,266
 
13
 
-  
 
1,279
 
$164,503
$527
$(2,266)
$162,764

At December 31, 2007, MBS available-for-sale possessed a weighted average contractual maturity of 15.8 years and a weighted average estimated duration of 2.5 years.

F-

 
 

 


The following summarizes the gross unrealized losses and fair value of MBS available for sale at December 31, 2007, aggregated by investment category and the length of time that the securities were in a continuous unrealized loss position:

 
Less than 12
Months Consecutive
Unrealized Losses
12 Months or More
Consecutive
Unrealized Losses
 
 
Total
 
 
Fair Value
Gross Unrealized Losses
 
Fair Value
Unrealized Loss
 
Fair Value
Gross Unrealized Losses
CMOs
$- 
$- 
$7,860
$108
$7,860
$108
FNMA pass-through certificates
117,227
 2,158
117,227
 2,158
 
$- 
$- 
$125,087
$2,266
$125,087
$2,266

At December 31, 2007, there were twenty-three MBS positions that possessed 12 months or more of consecutive unrealized losses.  The unrealized loss for all twenty-three securities resulted solely from changes in interest rates subsequent to acquisition of the security.  Management does not believe that any of the unrealized losses in the above table qualified as other-than temporary impairments at December 31, 2007.  In making this determination, management considered the severity and duration of the loss, as well as management's intent and ability to hold the security until substantial recovery of the loss.  Management also has no current intention to dispose of these investments.  At December 31, 2007, all of the FNMA pass-through certificates and CMOs that possessed unrealized losses for 12 or more consecutive months had the highest possible credit quality rating.

The amortized cost, gross unrealized gains and losses and estimated fair value of MBS available-for-sale at December 31, 2006 were as follows:

 
Mortgage-Backed Securities Available-for-Sale
 
 
Amortized
Cost
Gross Unrealized Gains
Gross Unrealized
(Losses)
 
Estimated
Fair Value
CMOs
$148,461
$- 
$(5,304)
$143,157
GNMA pass-through certificates
1,773
19
-  
1,792
FNMA pass-through certificates
9,862
(374)
9,488
 
$160,096
$19
$(5,678)
$154,437

At December 31, 2006, MBS available-for-sale possessed a weighted average contractual maturity of 13.4 years and a weighted average estimated duration of 2.6 years.

The following summarizes the gross unrealized losses and fair value of MBS available for sale at December 31, 2006, aggregated by investment category and the length of time that the securities were in a continuous unrealized loss position:

 
Less than 12
Months Consecutive
Unrealized Losses
12 Months or More
Consecutive
Unrealized Losses
 
 
Total
 
 
Fair Value
Gross Unrealized Losses
 
Fair Value
Gross Unrealized Loss
 
Fair Value
Goss Unrealized Losses
Debt securities:
           
CMOs
$- 
$- 
$143,157
$5,304
$143,157
5,304
FNMA pass-through certificates
9,488
 374
9,488
374
 
$- 
$- 
$152,645
$5,678
$152,645
$5,678

At December 31, 2006, there were twenty-four MBS positions that possessed 12 months or more of consecutive unrealized losses.  The unrealized loss for all twenty-four securities resulted solely from changes in interest rates subsequent to acquisition of the security.  Management does not believe that any of the unrealized losses in the above table qualified as other-than temporary impairments at December 31, 2006.  In making this determination, management considered the severity and duration of the loss, as well as management's intent and ability to hold the security until substantial recovery of the loss.  Management also has no current intention to dispose of these investments.

5.   LOANS

The Bank's real estate loans were composed of the following:

 
December 31,
2007
December 31,
2006
One- to four-family
$139,416
$146,613  
Multifamily residential
1,948,000
1,853,880  
Commercial real estate
728,129
666,927  
Construction and land acquisition
49,387
23,340  
Federal Housing Authority and Veterans Administration
    Insured mortgage loans
1,029
 
1,236  
Cooperative apartment unit loans
6,172
7,224  
 
2,872,133
2,699,220  
Net unearned costs
1,833
1,048  
 
$2,873,966
$2,700,268  

The Bank originates both adjustable and fixed interest rate real estate loans.  At December 31, 2007, the approximate composition of these loans was as follows:

Fixed Rate    
 
Adjustable Rate
 
Period to Maturity
 
Book Value
 
Earlier of Period to Maturity
   or Next Repricing
 
Book Value
1 year or less
$21,461
 
1 year or less
$373,824
> 1 year-3 years
37,066
 
> 1 year-3 years
735,852
> 3 years-5 years
58,803
 
> 3 years-5 years
1,001,000
> 5 years-10 years
209,450
 
> 5 years-10 years
299,403
> 10 years
134,580
 
> 10 years
694
 
$461,360
   
$2,410,773

The adjustable-rate loans are generally indexed to the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York ("FHLBNY") five-year borrowing rate, or the one- or three-year constant maturity Treasury index.  The contractual terms of adjustable rate multifamily residential and commercial real estate loans provide that their interest rate, upon repricing, cannot fall below their rate at the time of origination.  The Bank's one- to four-family residential adjustable-rate loans are subject to periodic and lifetime caps and floors on interest rate changes that typically range between 200 and 650 basis points.

A concentration of credit risk existed within the Bank's loan portfolio at December 31, 2007, as the majority of real estate loans on that date were collateralized by properties located in the New York City metropolitan area.

At December 31, 2007, the Bank had $420,808 of loans in its portfolio that featured interest only payments.  These loans subject the Bank to additional risk since their principal balance will not be reduced significantly prior to contractual maturity.  In addition at December 31, 2007, the Bank possessed a loss exposure of up to $20,409 in connection with $70,677 of interest only loans sold to FNMA.

F-

 
 

 


The Bank's other loans were composed of the following:

 
December 31,
2007
December 31,
2006
Passbook loans (secured by savings
   and time deposits)
 
$1,122
 
$1,172  
Consumer installment and other loans
1,047
1,033  
 
$2,169
$2,205  

Loans on which the accrual of interest was discontinued were $2,856 and $3,606 at December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively.  Interest income foregone on nonaccrual loans was $108 during the year ended December 31, 2007, $131 during the year ended December 31, 2006, and was immaterial during the year ended December 31, 2005.

The Bank had no loans considered troubled-debt restructurings at December 31, 2007 and 2006.

At December 31, 2007, there were six loans totaling $2,814 deemed impaired under Amended SFAS 114, compared to six loans totaling $3,514 as of December 31, 2006.  The average balance of impaired loans was approximately $2,717 during the year ended December 31, 2007, $1,920 during the year ended December 31, 2006, and $2,309 during the year ended December 31, 2005.  There were no write-downs on impaired loans during the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005.  At December 31, 2007 and 2006, reserves allocated within the allowance for loan losses for impaired loans totaled $348 and $351, respectively.  Net principal received on impaired loans totaled $1,950 and net interest received on impaired loans totaled $326 during the year ended December 31, 2007.  Net principal received on impaired loans totaled $628 and net interest received on impaired loans totaled $132 during the year ended December 31, 2006.  Net principal received on impaired loans totaled $10,755 and net interest received on impaired loans totaled $1,189 during the year ended December 31, 2005.

The following assumptions were utilized in evaluating the loan portfolio pursuant to the provisions of Amended SFAS 114:

Homogenous Loans - Individual one- to four-family residential mortgage loans and cooperative apartment loans having a balance of $417 or less and all consumer loans were considered to be small balance homogenous loan pools and, accordingly, not subject to Amended SFAS 114.

Loans Evaluated for Impairment - All non-homogeneous loans greater than $1,000 were individually evaluated for potential impairment. Additionally, individual one- to four-family residential and cooperative apartment unit mortgage loans exceeding $417 and delinquent in excess of 60 days were evaluated for impairment.  A loan is considered impaired when it is probable that all contractual amounts due will not be collected in accordance with the terms of the loan. A loan is not deemed to be impaired, even during a period of delayed payment by the borrower, if the Bank ultimately expects to collect all amounts due, including interest accrued at the contractual rate.   At December 31, 2007 and 2006, all impaired loans were on nonaccrual status. In addition at December 31, 2007 and 2006, approximately $42 and $92, respectively, of one- to four-family residential and cooperative apartment loans with a balance of $417 or less and consumer loans were on nonaccrual status. These loans are considered as a homogeneous loan pool not subject to Amended SFAS 114.

Reserves and Charge-Offs - The Bank allocates a portion of its total allowance for loan losses to loans deemed impaired under Amended SFAS 114. All charge-offs on impaired loans are recorded as a reduction in both loan principal and the allowance for loan losses. Management evaluates the adequacy of its allowance for loan losses on a regular basis.  Management believes that its allowance for impaired loans was adequate at December 31, 2007 and 2006.

Measurement of Impairment - Since all impaired loans are secured by real estate properties, the fair value of the collateral is utilized to measure impairment.  The fair value of the collateral is measured as soon as practicable after the loan becomes impaired and periodically thereafter.

Income Recognition - Accrual of interest is discontinued on loans identified as impaired and past due ninety days. Cash payments received on impaired loans subsequent to discontinuation of interest accruals are generally applied initially to principal.

F-

 
 

 

6.   ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN LOSSES

Changes in the allowance for loan losses were as follows:

 
Year Ended December 31,
 
2007
2006
2005
Balance at beginning of period
$15,514 
$15,785 
$15,543 
Provision charged to operations
240 
240 
340 
Loans charged off
(28)
(50)
(76)
Recoveries
19 
23 
31 
Transfer (to) from reserves on loan commitments
(358)
(484)
(53)
Balance at end of period
$15,387 
$15,514 
$15,785 

7.   MORTGAGE SERVICING ACTIVITIES

At December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005, the Bank was servicing loans for others having principal balances outstanding of approximately $563,383, $519,165, and $413,662, respectively.  Servicing loans for others generally consists of collecting mortgage payments, maintaining escrow accounts, disbursing payments to investors, paying taxes and insurance, and foreclosure processing.  The deferred servicing rights related to these loans totaled $2,496 and $2,592 at December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively, including the servicing rights associated with the multifamily loans sold to FNMA discussed below totaling $2,268 and $2,339 at December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively.  MSR recognized from loan sales were $493, $815 and $424 during the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively.  Amortization of servicing rights was $589, $569 and $578 during the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively.  MSR are accounted for in accordance with SFAS 156, which was adopted by the Bank on January 1, 2007, and did not create a material change in the Bank's existing accounting practices.  In connection with loans serviced for others, the Bank held borrowers' escrow balances of approximately $7,121 and $6,518 at December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively.

Multifamily Loans Sold To FNMA - The Bank implemented a program in December 2002 to originate and sell multifamily residential mortgage loans in the secondary market to FNMA while retaining servicing. The Bank underwrites these loans using its customary underwriting standards, funds the loans, and sells them to FNMA at agreed upon pricing. At December 31, 2007 and 2006, the Bank serviced $541,868 and $494,770, respectively, of loans sold pursuant to this program with corresponding loan servicing assets of $2,268 and $2,339, respectively.  Amortization of these servicing rights was $562, $543 and $559 during the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively.  Under the terms of the sales program, the Bank retains a portion of the associated credit risk. At December 31, 2007 and 2006, the Bank's maximum potential exposure related to secondary market sales to FNMA with respect to this specific program was $20,409 and $18,495, respectively.  The Bank retains this level of exposure until the portfolio of loans sold to FNMA is satisfied in its entirety or the Bank funds claims by FNMA for the maximum loss exposure.  As of December 31, 2007 and 2006, the Bank had not realized any losses related to these loans.  Reserves of $2,436 and $2,223 were established as of December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively, related to this exposure.  The reserve recorded relating to this exposure was included in the calculation of the gain on the sale of the loans.  No additional provisions relating to this exposure were recorded during the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005.

F-

 
 

 


Key economic assumptions and the sensitivity of the current fair value of residual cash flows to immediate 10 and 20 percent adverse changes in those assumptions are as follows:

 
At
December 31,
2007
At
December 31,
2006
At
December 31,
2005
Net carrying value of the servicing asset
$2,268      
$2,339     
$2,074      
Fair value of the servicing asset
3,914      
3,556      
2,890      
Weighted average life (in years)
8.25      
8.25      
8.25      
Prepayment speed assumptions (annual rate)
151 PSA      
151 PSA      
151 PSA      
  Impact on fair value of 10% adverse change
$(89)     
$(76)     
$(60)     
  Impact on fair value of 20% adverse change
$(174)     
$(150)     
$(118)     
Expected credit losses (annual rate)
$13      
$65      
$13      
  Impact on fair value of 10% adverse change
$(1)     
$(1)     
$(4)     
  Impact on fair value of 20% adverse change
$(3)     
$(3)     
$(9)     
Residual cash flows discount rate (annual rate)
12.75%   
13.75%   
12.75%   
  Impact on fair value of 10% adverse change
$(107)     
$(101)     
$(70)     
  Impact on fair value of 20% adverse change
$(207)    
$(195)    
$(137)     
Average Interest rate on adjustable rate loans
5.66%   
5.62%   
5.41%   
  Impact on fair value of 10% adverse change
-       
-       
-       
  Impact on fair value of 20% adverse change
-       
-       
-       

8.   PREMISES AND FIXED ASSETS

The following is a summary of premises and fixed assets:

 
December 31,
2007
December 31,
2006
Land
$7,237 
$7,237 
Buildings
21,532 
20,293 
Leasehold improvements
5,209 
4,856 
Furniture, fixtures and equipment
14,558 
13,586 
 
48,536 
45,972 
Less:  accumulated depreciation and amortization
(24,658)
(23,086)
 
$23,878 
$22,886 

Depreciation and amortization expense amounted to approximately $1,574, $1,459 and $1,371 during the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively.

9.   FEDERAL HOME LOAN BANK OF NEW YORK CAPITAL STOCK

The Bank is a Savings Bank Member of the FHLBNY.  Membership requires the purchase of shares of FHLBNY capital stock at $100 per share. The Bank owned 390,294 shares and 312,948 shares at December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively. The Bank recorded dividends on the FHLBNY capital stock of $2,169, $1,688 and $1,139 during the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively.


F-

 
 

 

10.   DUE TO DEPOSITORS

Deposits are summarized as follows:

 
At December 31, 2007
At December 31, 2006
 
Effective Cost
 
Liability
Effective Cost
 
Liability
Savings accounts
0.55%
$274,067
0.59%
$298,522
Certificates of deposit
4.61   
1,077,087
4.76   
1,064,669
Money market accounts
4.04   
678,759
3.56   
514,607
NOW and Super NOW accounts
2.28   
58,414
1.08   
35,519
Checking accounts
0.15   
91,671
-    
95,215
 
3.67%
$2,179,998
3.54%
$2,008,532

The distribution of certificates of deposit by remaining maturity was as follows:

 
At December 31,
At December 31,
 
2007
2006
Maturity in one year or less
$968,128  
$961,009  
Over one year through three years
99,928  
85,435  
Over three years to five years
9,021  
18,225  
Over five years
10  
-    
Total certificates of deposit
$1,077,087  
$1,064,669  

The aggregate amount of certificates of deposit with a minimum denomination of one-hundred thousand dollars was approximately $364,591 and $356,584 at December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively.

11.   SECURITIES SOLD UNDER AGREEMENTS TO REPURCHASE

Presented below is information concerning securities sold under agreements to repurchase:

 
At or for the
Fiscal Year
Ended December 31,
 
2007
2006
Balance outstanding at end of period
$155,080   
$120,235   
Average interest cost at end of period
4.53%
3.54%
Average balance outstanding during the period
$132,685   
$134,541   
Average interest cost during the period
4.11%
1.95%(a)
Carrying amount of underlying collateral
$163,116   
$126,830   
Estimated fair value of underlying collateral
$163,116   
$126,830   
Maximum balance outstanding at month end during the year
$155,160   
$205,455   

(a) During the year ended December 31, 2006, the Company recorded a reduction of $2,176 in interest expense on securities sold under agreements to repurchase that were prepaid.  Excluding this reduction, the average cost of securities sold under agreements to repurchase would have been 3.56% during the year ended December 31, 2006.

12.   FEDERAL HOME LOAN BANK OF NEW YORK ADVANCES

The Bank had borrowings (''Advances'') from the FHLBNY totaling $706,500 and $571,500 at December 31, 2007 and  2006, respectively. The average interest cost of FHLBNY Advances was 4.30%, 4.69%, and 4.48% during the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively.  During the year ended December 31, 2006, the Company incurred $1,369 in additional interest expense related to the prepayment of FHLBNY Advances.  Excluding this increase, the average cost of FHLBNY Advances would have been 4.45% during the year ended December 31, 2006. The average interest rate on outstanding FHLBNY Advances was 4.07% and 4.37% at December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively.  At December 31, 2007, in accordance with its Advances, Collateral Pledge and Security Agreement with the FHLBNY, the Bank maintained the requisite qualifying collateral with the FHLBNY (principally real estate loans), as defined by the FHLBNY, to secure such Advances.  At December 31, 2007, the FHLBNY Advances had contractual maturities ranging from September 2008 through December 2017.  Certain of the FHLBNY Advances outstanding at December 31, 2007 contained call features that may be exercised by the FHLBNY.

13.   SUBORDINATED NOTES PAYABLE AND TRUST PREFERRED SECURITIES PAYABLE

On April 12, 2000, the Holding Company issued subordinated notes in the aggregate amount of $25,000. The notes have a 9.25% fixed rate of interest and mature on May 1, 2010.  Interest expense recorded on the notes, inclusive of amortization of related issuance costs, was $2,396 during each of the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005.

On March 19, 2004, the Holding Company completed an offering of an aggregate amount of $72,165 of trust preferred securities through Dime Community Capital Trust I, an unconsolidated special purpose entity formed for the purpose of the offering.  Of the total amount offered, the Holding Company retained ownership of $2,165 of the securities.  The trust preferred securities bear a fixed interest rate of 7.0%, mature on April 14, 2034, and are callable without penalty at any time on or after April 15, 2009.

Interest expense recorded on the trust preferred securities totaled $5,129 during each of the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005.  Of the total interest payments, $152 was paid to the Holding Company in each of 2007, 2006 and 2005 related to its $2,165 investment in the securities, and was recorded in other non-interest income.

14.   INCOME TAXES

The Company's consolidated Federal, State and City income tax provisions were comprised of the following:

 
Year Ended December 31,
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
Year Ended December 31,
   
2007
     
2006
     
2005
 
 
 
Federal
State
and City
 
Total
 
 
Federal
State
and City
 
Total
 
 
Federal
State
and City
 
Total
Current
$11,976 
$2,106 
$14,082 
 
$15,385
$1,564
$16,949
 
$18,919 
$1,960 
$20,879 
Deferred
(204)
(630)
(834)
 
(176)
279
103
 
(691)
42 
(649)
 
$11,772 
$1,476 
$13,248 
 
$15,209
$1,843
$17,052
 
$18,228 
$2,002 
$20,230 

The preceding table excludes tax effects recorded directly to stockholders’ equity in connection with unrealized gains and losses on securities available-for-sale, stock-based compensation plans, and adjustments to other comprehensive income relating to the minimum pension liability, unrecognized gains of pension and other postretirement obligations and the adoption of SFAS 158.  These tax effects are disclosed as part of the presentation of the consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity and Comprehensive Income.

The provision for income taxes differed from that computed at the Federal statutory rate as follows:

 
Year Ended December 31,
 
2007
2006
2005
Tax at Federal statutory rate
$12,492   
$16,675   
$19,754   
State and local taxes, net of
   Federal income tax benefit
 
959   
 
1,198   
 
1,156   
Benefit plan differences
(37)  
(159)  
(3)  
Adjustments for prior period tax returns
641   
 (42)  
 (50)  
Investment in BOLI
(880)  
(654)  
(660)  
Other, net
73   
34   
33   
 
$13,248   
$17,052   
$20,230   
Effective tax rate
37.12%
35.79%
35.84%

In accordance with SFAS 109, "Accounting for Income Taxes," deferred tax assets and liabilities are recorded for temporary differences between the book and tax bases of assets and liabilities.

The components of Federal and State and City deferred income tax assets and liabilities were as follows:

 
At December 31,
Deferred tax assets:
2007
2006
Excess book bad debt over tax bad debt reserve
$7,156
$6,625 
Employee benefit plans
7,063
7,671 
Tax effect of other comprehensive income on securities available-for-sale
1,079
2,548 
State net operating loss carryforwards expiring in 2027 and 2026
873
136 
Other
504
452 
Total deferred tax assets
16,675
17,432 
Deferred tax liabilities:
   
Difference in book and tax carrying value of fixed assets
600
498 
Tax effect of purchase accounting fair value adjustments
179
194 
Other
103
296 
Total deferred tax liabilities
882
$988 
Valuation Allowance for State net operating loss carryforwards
873
136 
Net deferred tax asset (recorded in other assets)
$14,920
$16,308 

At December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively, a valuation allowance of $873 and $136 was established against the deferred tax asset associated with State net operating loss carryforwards.  No other valuation allowances were recognized during the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006, since, at each period end, it was more likely than not that the deferred tax assets would be fully realized.

At December 31, 2007, the Bank had approximately $60,000 of bad debt reserves for New York State and New York City income tax purposes for which no provision for income tax was required to be recorded.  However, these bad debt reserves could be subject to recapture into taxable income under certain circumstances.  Approximately $15,000 of the Bank’s previously accumulated bad debt deductions were similarly subject to potential recapture for federal income tax purposes at December 31, 2007.  New York State and federal recapture liabilities could be triggered by certain actions, including a distribution of these bad debt benefits to the Holding Company or the failure of the Bank to qualify as a bank for federal or New York State and New York City tax purposes.

In order for the Bank to permissibly maintain a New York State and New York City tax bad debt reserve for thrifts, certain thrift definitional tests must be satisfied on an ongoing basis.  These include maintaining at least 60% of assets in thrift qualifying assets, as defined for tax purposes, and maintaining a thrift charter. If the Bank fails to satisfy these definitional tests, it would be required to transition to the reserve method permitted to commercial banks under New York State and New York City income tax law, which would result in an increase in the New York State and New York City income tax provision, and a deferred tax liability would be established to reflect the eventual recapture of some or all of the New York State and New York City bad debt reserve.

The Company expects to take no action in the foreseeable future that would require the establishment of a tax liability associated with these bad debt reserves.

The Company is subject to regular examination by various tax authorities in jurisdictions in which the Company conducts significant business operations.  The Company regularly assesses the likelihood of additional assessments in each of the tax jurisdictions resulting from ongoing assessments.

The Company adopted FIN 48 on January 1, 2007.  FIN 48 clarifies the accounting for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in financial statements prepared in accordance with SFAS 109, "Accounting for Income Taxes." FIN 48 prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. FIN 48 also provides guidance on de-recognition, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure, and transition.  Pursuant to FIN 48, a tax position adopted is subjected to two levels of evaluation.  Initially, a determination is made as to whether it is more likely than not that a tax position will be sustained upon examination, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits of the position. In conducting this evaluation, management is required to presume that the position will be examined by the appropriate taxing authority possessing full knowledge of all relevant information. The second level of evaluation is the measurement of a tax position that satisfies the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold.  This measurement is performed in order to determine the amount of benefit to recognize in the financial statements. The tax position is measured at the largest amount of benefit that is greater than 50 percent likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement.  FIN 48 further requires tabular disclosure of material activity related to unrecognized tax benefits that do not satisfy the recognition provisions established under FIN 48.  The adoption of FIN 48 on January 1, 2007 resulted in an increase of $1.7 million in the liability for unrecognized tax benefits, which was accounted for as a reduction of the Company's consolidated January 1, 2007 balance of retained earnings.

The following table reconciles the Company's gross unrecognized tax benefits:

Gross unrecognized tax benefits at January 1, 2007
 
$2,716 
Lapse of statue of limitations
 
(183)
Gross increases – current period tax positions
 
73 
Gross decreases – prior period tax positions
 
(332)
Gross unrecognized tax benefits at December 31, 2007
 
$2,274 

If recognized, the net unrecognized tax benefits as of December 31, 2007 would have reduced the Company's consolidated income tax expense by $1.4 million (excluding interest of $331), all of which would have favorably impacted the Company's consolidated effective tax rate.

Interest and penalties associated with unrecognized tax benefits approximated $648 and $509 at January 1, 2007 and December 31, 2007, respectively.  The Company recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits and penalties as income tax expense.  Related to the unrecognized tax benefits noted above, the Company reversed interest of $139 during 2007 and in total, as of December 31, 2007, has an unrecognized tax liability for interest of $331, and no unrecognized tax liability for penalties.

All entities for which unrecognized tax benefits existed as of December 31, 2007 possess a June 30th tax year-end.  As a result, as of December 31, 2007, the tax years ended June 30, 2004 through June 30, 2007 remained subject to examination by all tax jurisdictions.  The Company is currently under audit by taxing jurisdictions.  As a result, it is reasonably possible that an amount ranging from 30% to 50% of the unrecognized tax benefits (including interest) could be recognized within the next twelve months.

15.   EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

Employee Retirement Plan - The Bank sponsors the Employee Retirement Plan, a tax-qualified, noncontributory, defined-benefit retirement plan.  Prior to April 1, 2000, substantially all full-time employees of at least 21 years of age were eligible for participation after one year of service.  Effective April 1, 2000, the Bank froze all participant benefits under the Employee Retirement Plan.

The net periodic (credit)cost for the Employee Retirement Plan included the following components:

 
Year Ended December 31,
 
2007
2006
2005
Interest cost
1,071 
1,041 
1,068 
Expected return on plan assets
(1,799)
(1,753)
(1,650)
Net amortization and deferral
470 
580 
545 
Net periodic (credit) cost
$(258)
$(132)
$(37)

Major assumptions utilized to determine the net periodic cost (credit) were as follows:

 
Year Ended December 31,
 
2007
2006
2005
Discount rate
5.875%
5.50%
6.125%

The funded status of the Employee Retirement Plan was as follows:

 
At December 31,
 
2007
2006
Accumulated benefit obligation at end of period
$18,357   
$18,753   
Reconciliation of Projected benefit obligation:
   
Projected benefit obligation at beginning of period
$18,753   
$19,450   
Interest cost
1,070   
1,041   
Actuarial gain
(430)  
(652)  
Benefit payments
(1,036)  
(1,049)  
Settlements
-   
(37)  
Projected benefit obligation at end of period
18,357   
18,753   
Plan assets at fair value (investments in trust funds managed by trustee)
   
Balance at beginning of period
20,509   
20,000   
Return on plan assets
2,699   
1,595   
Contributions
-    
-    
Benefit payments
(1,036)  
(1,049)  
Settlements
-   
(37)  
Balance at end of period
22,172   
20,509   
     
Funded status:
   
Excess of plan assets over projected benefit obligation
3,815   
1,756   
Unrecognized loss from experience different from that assumed
N/A   
N/A   
Prepaid retirement expense included in other assets
$3,815   
$1,756   

For the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006, the Bank used October 1st as its measurement date for the Employee Retirement Plan.  The Bank does not anticipate making any contributions to the Employee Retirement Plan in 2008.  During the year ending December 31, 2008, $268 in actuarial losses are anticipated to be recognized as a component of net periodic cost.

Major assumptions utilized to determine the benefit obligations at December 31, 2007 and 2006 were as follows:

 
At December 31,
 
2007
2006
Discount rate
6.29%
5.875%
Expected long-term return on plan assets
9.00   
9.00   

Employee Retirement Plan assets are invested in six diversified investment funds of RSI Retirement Trust (the "Trust"), a no-load series open-ended mutual fund.  The investment funds include four equity mutual funds and two bond mutual funds, each with its own investment objectives, strategies and risks, as detailed in the Trust's prospectus.  All of the investment funds have quoted market prices.  The Trust has been given discretion by the plan sponsor to determine the appropriate strategic asset allocation versus plan liabilities, as governed by the Trust's Statement of Investment Objectives and Guidelines (the "Guidelines").

The long-term investment objective is to be invested 65% in equity mutual funds and 35% in bond mutual funds.  If the plan is underfunded under the Guidelines, the bond fund portion will be temporarily increased to 50% in order to lessen asset value volatility.  When the Employee Retirement Plan is no longer underfunded, the bond fund portion will be returned to 35%.  Asset rebalancing is performed at least annually, with interim adjustments performed when the investment mix varies in excess of 10% from the target.

The investment goal is to achieve investment results that will contribute to the proper funding of the Employee Retirement Plan by exceeding the rate of inflation over the long-term.  In addition, investment managers for the Trust are expected to provide above average performance when compared to their peer managers.  Performance volatility is also monitored.  Risk/volatility is further managed by the distinct investment objectives of each of the Trust funds and the diversification within each fund.

The weighted average allocation by asset category of the assets of the Employee Retirement Plan were summarized as follows:

 
At December 31,
 
2007
2006
Asset Category
   
Equity securities
70%
73%
Debt securities (bond mutual funds)
30   
27   
Total
100%
100%

The allocation percentages in the above table are consistent with future planned allocation percentages as of December 31, 2007.

The expected long-term rate of return assumptions on Employee Retirement Plan assets were established based upon historical returns earned by equities and fixed income securities, adjusted to reflect expectations of future returns as applied to the Employee Retirement Plan's target allocation of asset classes.  Equities and fixed income securities were assumed to earn real rates of return in the ranges of 5% to 9% and 2% to 6%, respectively.  The long-term inflation rate was estimated to be 3%.  When these overall return expectations are applied to the plan's target allocation, the expected rate of return is determined to be 9.0%, which approximates the midpoint of the range of the expected return.

Benefit payments, which reflect expected future service (as appropriate), are anticipated to be made as follows:

Year Ending December 31,
   
2008
 
$1,197
2009
 
1,218
2010
 
1,215
2011
 
1,216
2012
 
1,266
2013 to 2017
 
6,472

Retirement Plan for Board Members of Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. ("Directors' Retirement Plan") and BMP - The Holding Company and Bank maintain the BMP, which exists in order to compensate executive officers for any curtailments in benefits due to statutory limitations on benefit plans.  As of December 31, 2007 and 2006, the BMP had investments in the Holding Company's common stock of $9,352 and $10,260, respectively.  Benefit accruals under the defined benefit portion of the BMP were suspended on April 1, 2000, when they were suspended under the Employee Retirement Plan.

Effective July 1, 1996, the Bank established the Directors' Retirement Plan, which provides benefits to each eligible outside director commencing upon termination of their Board service or at age 65.  Each outside director automatically becomes a participant in the Directors' Retirement Plan.

In March 2005, the Board of Directors of the Company approved an amendment to the Directors' Retirement Plan that froze all participant benefits effective March 31, 2005.  Upon receipt of an updated actuarial valuation report reflecting this amendment, the Company recorded a curtailment credit of $179 related to the Directors' Retirement Plan during the year ended December 31, 2005.

F-

 
 

 


The combined net periodic cost for the defined benefit portions of the BMP and the Directors' Retirement Plan includes the following components:

 
Year Ended December 31,
 
2007
2006
2005
Service cost
$-  
$-  
$-  
Interest cost
281 
269 
286 
Net amortization and deferral
-  
38 
73 
Curtailment credit
-  
-  
(179)
Net periodic cost
$281 
$307 
$180 

Major assumptions utilized to determine the net periodic cost for the BMP were as follows:

 
Year Ended December 31,
 
2007
2006
2005
Discount rate
5.875%
5.50%
6.125%

Major assumptions utilized to determine the net periodic cost for the Directors' Retirement Plan were as follows:

 
Year Ended December 31,
 
2007
2006
2005
Discount rate
5.875%
5.50%
6.00%
Rate of increase in fee compensation levels
-     
4.0    
4.0   

The defined contribution costs incurred by the Company related to the BMP were $75 and $135 for the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2005, respectively.  There was no defined contribution expense incurred by the Company related to the BMP during the year ended December 31, 2006.  There is no defined contribution cost incurred by the Holding Company or Bank under the Directors' Retirement Plan.

The combined funded status of the defined benefit portions of the BMP and Directors' Retirement Plan was as follows:

 
At December 31,
 
2007
2006
Accumulated benefit obligation at end of period
$5,166    
$4,942    
Reconciliation of projected benefit obligation:
   
Projected benefit obligation at beginning of period
$4,910    
$5,067    
Service cost
-     
-     
Interest cost
281    
270    
Benefit payments
(128)   
(96)   
Actuarial loss (gain)
71    
(331)   
Projected benefit obligation at end of period
5,134    
4,910    
Plan assets at fair value:
   
Balance at beginning of period
-      
-      
Contributions
128   
96    
Benefit payments
(128)  
(96)  
Balance at end of period
-    
-     
Funded status:
   
Deficiency of plan assets over projected benefit obligation
(5,134)   
(4,910)   
Contributions by employer
N/A    
N/A    
Unrecognized (gain) loss from experience different from that assumed
N/A    
N/A    
Unrecognized net past service liability
N/A    
N/A    
Accrued expense included in other liabilities
$(5,134)   
$(4,910)   


Major assumptions utilized to determine the benefit obligations at December 31, 2007 and 2006 were as follows:

 
At December 31, 2007
 
At December 31, 2006
 
 
 
BMP
Directors' Retirement Plan
 
 
 
BMP
Directors' Retirement Plan
Discount rate
6.29%
6.29%  
 
5.875%
5.50%  
Rate of increase in compensation levels
-   
-       
 
-   
-       

As of December 31, 2007 and 2006, the Bank used October 1st as its measurement date for both the BMP and Directors' Retirement Plan.  Both the BMP and Directors' Retirement Plan are unfunded non-qualified benefit plans that are not anticipated to ever hold assets for investment.  Any contributions made to either the BMP or Directors' Retirement Plan are expected to be used immediately to pay benefits that come due.

The Bank expects to contribute $191 to the BMP and $131 to the Directors' Retirement Plan during the year ending December 31, 2008 in order to pay benefits due under the respective plans.  During the year ending December 31, 2008, $268 in actuarial losses are anticipated to be recognized as components of net periodic cost.

Combined benefit payments under the BMP and Directors' Retirement Plan, which reflect expected future service (as appropriate), are anticipated to be made as follows:

Year Ending December 31,
   
2008
 
$322
2009
 
340
2010
 
358
2011
 
380
2012
 
464
2013 to 2017
 
$2,293

Postretirement Benefit Plan - The Bank offers the Postretirement Benefit Plan to its retired employees who provided at least five consecutive years of credited service and were active employees prior to April 1, 1991, as follows:

 
(1)   Qualified employees who retired prior to April 1, 1991 receive the full medical coverage in effect at the time of retirement until their death at no cost to such retirees;

 
(2)   Qualified employees retiring on or after after April 1, 1991 are eligible for continuation of the medical coverage in effect at the time of retirement until their death. Throughout retirement, the Bank will continue to pay the premiums for the coverage not to exceed the premium amount paid for the first year of retirement coverage. Should the premiums increase, the employee is required to pay the differential to maintain full medical coverage.

Postretirement Benefit Plan benefits are available only to full-time employees who commenced collecting retirement benefits immediately upon termination of service from the Bank. The Bank reserves the right at any time, to the extent permitted by law, to change, terminate or discontinue any of the group benefits, and can exercise the maximum discretion permitted by law in administering, interpreting, modifying or taking any other action with respect to the plan or benefits.

The Postretirement Benefit Plan net periodic cost included the following components:

 
Year Ended December 31,
 
2007
2006
2005
Service cost
$83 
$82 
$72 
Interest cost
245 
227 
256 
Unrecognized past service liability
(29)
(29)
(28)
Amortization of unrealized loss
29 
40 
56 
 
$328 
$320 
$356 


F-

 
 

 


Major assumptions utilized to determine the net periodic cost were as follows:

 
Year Ended December 31,
 
2007
2006
2005
Discount rate
5.875%
5.50%
6.125%
Rate of increase in compensation levels
3.50   
3.00   
3.25   

As of December 31, 2007, an escalation in the assumed medical care cost trend rates by 1% in each year would increase the net periodic cost by approximately $20.  A decline in the assumed medical care cost trend rates by 1% in each year would decrease the net periodic cost by approximately $19.

The funded status of the Postretirement Benefit Plan was as follows:

 
At December 31,
At December 31,
 
2007
2006
Accumulated benefit obligation at end of period
$4,234    
$4,244     
Reconciliation of projected benefit obligation:
   
Projected benefit obligation at beginning of period
$4,244    
$4,183     
Service cost
83    
82     
Interest cost
244    
227     
Actuarial gain
(166)   
(109)    
Benefit payments
(171)   
(139)    
Projected benefit obligation at end of period
4,234    
4,244     
     
Plan assets at fair value:
   
Balance at beginning of period
-     
-      
Contributions
171    
139     
Benefit payments
(171)   
(139)    
Balance at end of period
-      
-      
     
Funded status:
   
(Deficiency) of plan assets over projected benefit obligation
(4,234)   
(4,244)    
Unrecognized loss from experience different from that assumed
N/A    
N/A     
Unrecognized net past service liability
N/A    
N/A     
Accrued expense included in other liabilities
$(4,234)   
$(4,244)    

As of December 31, 2007 and 2006, the Bank used October 1st as its measurement date for the Postretirement Benefit Plan.  The assumed medical care cost trend rate used in computing the accumulated Postretirement Benefit Plan obligation was 9.0% in 2007 and was assumed to decrease gradually to 3.75% in 2013 and remain at that level thereafter.  An escalation in the assumed medical care cost trend rates by 1% in each year would increase the accumulated Postretirement Benefit Plan obligation by approximately $191.  A decline in the assumed medical care cost trend rates by 1% in each year would decrease the accumulated Postretirement Benefit Plan obligation by approximately $176.  The assumed discount rate and rate of compensation increase used to measure the accumulated Postretirement Benefit Plan obligation were 6.29% and 4.0%, respectively, at December 31, 2007.  The assumed discount rate and rate of compensation increase used to measure the accumulated Postretirement Benefit Plan obligation were 5.875% and 3.50%, respectively, at December 31, 2006.  The assumed discount rate and rate of compensation increase used to measure the accumulated Postretirement Benefit Plan obligation at December 31, 2005 were 5.50% and 3.00%, respectively.

In May 2004, the FASB issued FSP 106-2 ("FSP 106-2"), "Accounting and Disclosure Requirements Related to the Medicare Prescription Drug Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003 (the "Act")," to provide guidance on accounting for the effects of the Act to employers that sponsor postretirement health care plans which provide prescription drug benefits.  FSP 106-2 supersedes FSP 106-1, "Accounting and Disclosure Requirements Related to the Medicare Prescription Drug Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003."  FSP 106-2 applies only to sponsors of single-employer defined benefit postretirement health care plans for which (i) the employer has concluded that prescription drug benefits available under the plan to some or all participants, for some or all future years, are "actuarially equivalent" to Medicare Part D and thus qualify for the subsidy provided by the Act, and (ii) the expected subsidy will offset or reduce the employer's share of the cost of the underlying postretirement prescription drug coverage on which the subsidy is based.  FSP 106-2 provides guidance on measuring the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation ("APBO") and net periodic postretirement benefit cost, and the effects of the Act on the APBO.  The Company determined that the benefits provided by the Postretirement Benefit Plan are actuarially equivalent to Medicare Part D under the Act.  The effects of the subsidy resulted in a decrease in the APBO of $450 at December 31, 2005.  The effects of the subsidy were treated as an actuarial gain for purposes of calculating the APBO as of December 31, 2005. The Company is still in the process of claiming this subsidy from the government, and, as a result, the Bank cannot determine the amount of subsidy it will ultimately receive.

The Postretirement Benefit Plan is an unfunded non-qualified benefit plan that is not anticipated to ever hold assets for investment.  Any contributions made to the Postretirement Benefit Plan are expected to be used immediately to pay benefits that come due.

The Bank expects to contribute $168 to the Postretirement Benefit Plan during the year ending December 31, 2008 in order to pay benefits due under the plan.  During the year ending December 31, 2008, $16 of actuarial loss and a credit of $26 of prior service costs are anticipated to be recognized as components of net periodic cost.

Benefit payments under the Postretirement Benefit Plan, which reflect expected future service (as appropriate), are expected to be made as follows:

Year Ending December 31,
   
2008
 
$168
2009
 
164
2010
 
166
2011
 
172
2012
 
180
2013 to 2017
 
1,003

401(k) Plan - The Bank also maintains the 401(k) Plan which covers substantially all employees.  During the year ended December 31, 2007, a direct employer contribution equal to 3% of "covered compensation" [defined as total W-2 compensation including amounts deducted from W-2 compensation for pre-tax benefits such as health insurance premiums and contributions to the 401(k) Plan] up to applicable Internal Revenue Service limits, was awarded to all employees who were eligible to participate in the 401(k) Plan regardless of whether or not they participated in the 401(k) Plan during 2007.  During the years ended December 31, 2006 and 2005, the 401(k) Plan received the proceeds from a 100% vested cash contribution to all participants in the ESOP in the amount of 3% of "covered compensation"  up to applicable Internal Revenue Service limits.   401(k) Plan participants possess the ability to invest this contribution in any of the investment options offered under the 401(k) Plan.  The Bank makes no other contributions to the 401(k) Plan.  Expenses associated with this contribution totaled $383, $397 and $425 during the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively.

The 401(k) Plan owned participant investments in the Holding Company's common stock for the accounts of participants totaling $7,498 and $7,499 at December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively.

ESOP - The Holding Company adopted the ESOP in connection with the Bank's June 26, 1996 conversion to stock ownership.  The ESOP borrowed $11,638 from the Holding Company and used the funds to purchase 3,927,825 shares of the Holding Company's common stock.  The loan was originally to be repaid principally from the Bank's discretionary contributions to the ESOP over a period of time not to exceed 10 years from the date of the conversion.  Effective July 1, 2000, the loan agreement was amended to extend the repayment period to thirty years from the date of the conversion, with the right of optional prepayment.  In exchange for the extension of the loan agreement, various benefits were offered to participants, including the addition of pre-tax employee contributions to the 401(k) Plan, a 3% annual employer contribution to the ESOP [which is automatically transferred to the 401(k) Plan], and the pass-through of cash dividends received by the ESOP to the individual participants.  The loan had an outstanding balance of $4,444 and $4,554 at December 31, 2007 and December 31, 2006, respectively, and a fixed rate of 8.0%.

Shares purchased with the loan proceeds are held in a suspense account for allocation among participants as the loan is repaid.  Shares released from the ESOP suspense account are allocated among participants on the basis of compensation, as defined in the plan, in the year of allocation.  ESOP distributions vest at a rate of 25% per year of service, beginning after two years, with full vesting after five years, or upon attainment of age 65, death, disability, retirement or in the event of a "change of control" of the Holding Company as defined in the ESOP.  Common stock allocated to participating employees totaled 78,155 shares during each of the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005. The ESOP benefit expense recorded in accordance with Statement of Position 93-6 for allocated shares totaled $1,794, $1,829 and $2,023, respectively, for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005.

As indicated previously, effective July 1, 2000, the Holding Company or Bank became required to make a 100% vested cash contribution annually to all ESOP participants in the amount of 3% of "covered compensation" as defined in the ESOP.  This contribution was guaranteed until December 31, 2006 (unless the ESOP was terminated prior thereto) and is discretionary after that date.  This annual contribution was made in January of each year based upon the total covered compensation through December 31st of the previous year.  The participant possesses the ability to invest this contribution in any of the investment options offered under the 401(k) Plan.

Stock Option Activity

1996 Stock Option Plan - In November 1996, the Holding Company adopted the 1996 Stock Option Plan, which permitted the Company to grant up to 4,909,781 incentive or non-qualified stock options to outside directors, certain officers and other employees of the Holding Company or the Bank.  The Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors administers the 1996 Stock Option Plan and authorized all option grants.

On December 26, 1996, 4,702,796 stock options were granted to outside directors, certain officers and certain employees under the 1996 Stock Option Plan, all of which were fully exercisable at December 31, 2006.  On January 20, 2000, 224,435 stock options remaining under the 1996 Stock Option Plan were granted to certain officers and certain employees.  All of these stock options expire on January 20, 2010.  One-fifth of the shares granted to participants under this grant vested on January 20, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004 and 2005, respectively.  No stock options may be granted under the 1996 Stock Option Plan after December 26, 2006.

On January 21, 1999, holders of stock options which had been granted by FIBC to purchase 327,290 shares of FIBC common stock were converted into options to purchase 598,331 shares of the Holding Company's common stock (the "Converted Options").  The expiration dates on all Converted Options remained unchanged from the initial grant by FIBC, and all Converted Options were fully exercisable at December 31, 2005.

During the year ended December 31, 2007, 25,075 unissued options under the 1996 Stock Option Plan were deemed ineligible for future grant.

2001 Stock Option Plan - In September 2001, the Holding Company adopted the 2001 Stock Option Plan, which permitted the Company to grant up to 1,771,875 incentive or non-qualified stock options to officers and other employees of the Holding Company or the Bank and 253,125 non-qualified stock options to outside directors of the Holding Company or Bank.  The Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors administered the 2001 Stock Option Plan and authorized all option grants.

On November 21, 2001, 540,447 stock options were granted to certain officers and employees under the 2001 Stock Option Plan.  All of these stock options expire on November 21, 2011.  One-fourth of the options under this grant vested on November 21, 2002, 2003, 2004 and 2005, respectively.  On November 21, 2001, 67,500 stock options were granted to outside directors under the 2001 Stock Option Plan.  All of these stock options will expire on November 21, 2011 and vested on November 21, 2002.

On February 1, 2003, a grant of 604,041 stock options was made to certain officers and employees under the 2001 Stock Option Plan.  All of these stock options expire on February 1, 2013.  When originally granted, one-fourth of the options under this grant were to vest on February 1, 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2007, respectively.  On December 30, 2005, vesting was accelerated for all unvested options issued under this grant.  On February 1, 2003, 75,000 stock options were granted to outside directors under the 2001 Stock Option Plan.  All of these stock options will expire on February 1, 2013 and vested on February 1, 2004.

On January 27, 2004, a grant of 632,874 stock options was made to certain officers and employees under the 2001 Stock Option Plan.  All of these stock options expire on January 27, 2014.  When originally granted, one-fourth of the options under this grant were to vest on January 27, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008, respectively.  On December 30, 2005, vesting was accelerated for all unvested options issued under this grant.  On January 27, 2004, 81,000 stock options were granted to outside directors under the 2001 Stock Option Plan.  All of these stock options will expire on January 27, 2014 and vested on January 27, 2005.  

2004 Stock Incentive Plan - In November 2004, the Company adopted the 2004 Stock Incentive Plan, which permits the Company to grant up to a total of 1,496,300 restricted stock awards, incentive or non-qualified stock options or stock appreciation rights to outside directors, officers and other employees of the Holding Company or the Bank.  Of the total shares eligible for grant under the 2004 Stock Incentive Plan, only up to 374,075 may be granted as restricted stock awards.  The full amount of 1,496,300 shares may be issued either fully as stock options or stock appreciation rights, or a combination thereof.  The Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors administers the 2004 Stock Incentive Plan and authorizes all equity grants.

On January 31, 2005, a grant of 76,320 options was made to outside directors of the Company under the 2004 Stock Incentive Plan.  These options expire on January 31, 2015, and, upon grant, were to vest on January 31, 2006.  On May 31, 2005, a grant of 318,492 stock options was made to certain officers of the Company under the 2004 Stock Incentive Plan.  All of the options issued under this grant expire on May 31, 2015.  When originally granted, one-fourth of the options under this grant were to vest on May 31, 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009, respectively.  On December 30, 2005, vesting was accelerated for all unvested options issued under both of these grants.  On May 1, 2007, a grant of 90,000 options was made to outside directors of the Company under the 2004 Stock Incentive Plan.  These options expire on May 1, 2017, and vest on May 1, 2008.  On May 1, 2007, a grant of 906,500 stock options was made to certain officers of the Company under the 2004 Stock Incentive Plan.  All of the options issued under this grant expire on May 1, 2017.  One-fourth of the options under this grant vest on May 1, 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011, respectively.

Combined stock option activity related to the Stock Plans was as follows:

 
At or for the Year Ended December 31,
 
2007
2006
2005
Options outstanding – beginning of period
2,250,747
2,503,103
2,679,435
Options granted
996,500
394,812
Weighted average exercise price of grants
$13.74
$15.36
Options exercised
56,540
246,169
534,637
Weighted average exercise price of exercised options
$5.64
$4.75
$4.72
Options forfeited
24,710
6,187
36,507
Weighted average exercise price of forfeited options
$18.88
$19.90
$17.40
Options outstanding - end of period
3,165,997
2,250,747
2,503,103
Weighted average exercise price of outstanding
   options - end of period
$14.63
 
$14.85
 
$13.87
Remaining options available for grant
118,975
1,127,840
1,169,653
Vested options at end of period
2,169,497
2,250,747
2,503,103
Weighted average exercise price of vested
   options – end of period
$15.04
$14.85
$13.87
Cash received for option exercise cost
$244
$1,086
$2,445
Income tax benefit recognized
177
839
1,995
Compensation expense recognized
629
-  
-  
Remaining unrecognized compensation expense
2,377
-  
-  
Weighted average remaining years for which
   compensation expense is to be recognized
3.2
-  
-  

The range of exercise prices and weighted-average remaining contractual lives of both options outstanding and vested options as of December 31, 2007 were as follows:


F-

 
 

 


 
Outstanding Options as of December 31, 2007
 
 
 
Range of Exercise Prices
Amount
Weighted Average
Exercise Price
Weighted Average Contractual Years Remaining
Vested
Options as of
December 31, 2007
$4.51 -  $5.00
14,087  
4.56  
2.3
14,087  
$10.50 - $11.00
500,364  
10.91  
4.1
500,364  
$13.00-$13.50
598,442  
13.16  
5.3
598,442  
$13.50-$14.00
996,500  
13.74  
9.6
-    
$15.00-$15.50
318,492  
15.10  
7.7
318,492  
$16.00-$16.50
76,320  
16.45  
7.3
76,320  
$19.50-$20.00
661,792  
19.90  
6.3
661,792  
   Total
3,165,997  
$14.63  
6.9
2,169,497  

There were no stock options granted during the year ended December 31, 2006.  The weighted average fair value per option on the date of grant for stock options granted during the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2005 were estimated as follows:

 
Year Ended December 31,
 
2007   
2005   
Total options granted
996,500   
394,812   
Estimated fair value on date of grant
$3.06   
$3.91   
Pricing methodology utilized
Black- Scholes   
Black- Scholes
Expected life (in years)
6.2   
7.0   
Interest rate
4.56%
3.94%
Volatility
28.39   
31.67   
Dividend yield
4.08   
3.67   

Other Stock Awards

RRP - On May 17, 2002, 67,500 RRP shares were granted to certain officers of the Bank.  These shares vested as follows:  20% on November 25, 2002, and 20% each on April 25, 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2006.  The fair value of the Holding Company's common stock on May 17, 2002 was $16.19.  The Company accounts for compensation expense under the RRP in accordance with SFAS 123R.  During the year ended December 31, 2007, the Company determined that the shares held by the RRP were no longer eligible for grant.  On September 14, 2007, all of the assets of the RRP were liquidated, and the 303,137 unallocated shares of common stock previously held by the RRP were retired into treasury.

The following is a summary of activity related to the RRP for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005:

 
At or for the Year Ended   December 31,
 
2007
2006
2005
Shares acquired (a)
-  
5,023 
5,636
Shares vested
-  
13,500 
13,500
Shares allocated
-  
-  
Shares transferred to the Holding Company
303,137
   
Unallocated shares - end of period
-  
303,137
298,114
Unvested allocated shares – end of period
-  
-  
13,500
Compensation recorded to expense
-  
$45
$108
Income recognized upon transfer of assets
109
-  
Income tax benefit recognized
-  
134
 
(a) Represents shares re-acquired from either participant sales of vested shares in order to satisfy income tax obligations or participant forfeitures.

Restricted Stock Awards – On March 17, 2005, a grant of 31,804 restricted stock awards was made to certain officers of the Bank under the 2004 Stock Incentive Plan.  One-fourth of these awards vest to the respective recipients on May 31, 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009, respectively.  The fair value of the Company's common stock on March 17, 2005 was $15.44.  On January 3, 2006, a grant of 30,000 restricted stock awards was made to certain officers of the Bank under the 2004 Stock Incentive Plan.  One-fifth of these awards vest to the respective recipients on February 1, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011, respectively.  The fair value of the Company's common stock on January 3, 2006 was $14.61 (the opening price on the grant date).  On March 16, 2006, a grant of 18,000 restricted stock awards was made to certain officers of the Bank under the 2004 Stock Incentive Plan.  One-fifth of these awards vest to the respective recipients on May 1, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011, respectively.  The fair value of the Company's common stock on March 16, 2006 was $14.48.  On May 1, 2007, a grant of 12,000 restricted stock awards was made to outside directors of the Bank under the 2004 Stock Incentive Plan. All of these awards vest to the respective recipients on May 1, 2008.  The fair value of the Company's common stock on May 1, 2007 was $13.74.

In accordance with SFAS 123R, compensation expense was recorded on these restricted stock awards based upon the fair value of the shares on the respective dates of grant for all periods presented.

The following is a summary of activity related to the restricted stock awards granted under the 2004 Stock Incentive Plan:

 
At or for the Year Ended December 31,
 
2007
2006
2005
Unvested allocated shares – beginning of period
71,855
31,804 
-  
Shares granted
12,000
48,000 
31,804
Shares vested
17,551
7,949 
-  
Unvested allocated shares – end of period
66,304
71,855 
31,804
Unallocated shares - end of period
-   
-  
Compensation recorded to expense
$372 
$252 
$96
Income tax (benefit) recognized
(1)
16 

16.   COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

Mortgage Loan Commitments and Lines of Credit - At December 31, 2007 and 2006, the Bank had outstanding commitments to make real estate loans aggregating approximately $102,397 and $55,321, respectively.

At December 31, 2007, commitments to originate fixed-rate and adjustable-rate real estate loans were $6,145 and $96,252 respectively.  Interest rates on fixed-rate commitments ranged between 5.70% and 7.13%. Substantially all of the Bank's commitments expire within three months of their acceptance by the prospective borrower.  A concentration risk exists with these commitments as virtually all of them involve multifamily and underlying cooperative properties located within the New York City metropolitan area.

At December 31, 2007, unused lines of credit available on one- to four-family residential, multifamily residential and commercial real estate loans totaled $37,731.  At December 31, 2007, unused commitments to fund construction loans and overdraft checking accounts totaled $30,973 and $3,191, respectively.

At December 31, 2007, the Bank had available unused lines of credit with the FHLBNY totaling $100,000 expiring on July 31, 2008, and the Holding Company has a $15.0 million line of credit agreement with a reputable financial institution expiring in June 2009.

Lease Commitments - At December 31, 2007, aggregate minimum annual rental commitments on operating leases were as follows:

Year Ending December 31,
Amount
2008
$1,858
2009
2,062
2010
2,093
2011
1,963
2012
1,848
Thereafter
19,130
   Total
$28,954

Rental expense for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005 totaled $1,794, $1,417, and $1,283, respectively.

Litigation - The Company is subject to certain pending and threatened legal actions which arise out of the normal course of business.  Litigation is inherently unpredictable, particularly in proceedings where claimants seek substantial or indeterminate damages, or which are in their early stages.  The Company cannot predict with certainty the actual loss or range of loss related to such legal proceedings, the manner in which they will be resolved, the timing of final resolution or the ultimate settlement.  Consequently, the Company cannot estimate losses or ranges of losses related to such legal matters, even in instances where it is reasonably possible that a future loss will be incurred.  In the opinion of management, after consultation with counsel, the resolution of all ongoing legal proceedings will not have a material adverse effect on the consolidated financial condition or results of operations of the Company.  The Company accounts for potential losses related to litigation in accordance with SFAS 5 "Accounting for Contingencies."  As of December 31, 2007 and 2006, reserves provided for potential losses related to litigation matters were not material.

17.   FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

Considerable judgment is required in interpreting market data when determining the fair value of financial instruments. The estimated fair value amounts below have been determined by the Company using available market information and appropriate valuation methodologies outlined in SFAS 107, "Disclosures About Fair Value of Financial Instruments."  As discussed in Note 1, the Company adopted SFAS 157 effective January 1, 2008.  Management does not believe that the valuations presented below would differ materially if prepared in accordance with SFAS 157.

Cash and Due From Banks - The fair value is assumed to be equal to their carrying value as these amounts are due upon demand.

Investment Securities and MBS - The fair value of these securities is based on quoted market prices obtained from an independent pricing service.

Federal Funds Sold and Other Short Term Investments - The fair value of these assets, principally overnight deposits, is assumed to be equal to their carrying value due to their short maturity.

FHLBNY Capital Stock - The fair value of FHLBNY stock is assumed to be equal to the carrying value as the stock is carried at par value and redeemable at par value by the FHLBNY.

Loans and Loans Held for Sale - The fair value of loans receivable is determined by utilizing either secondary market prices, or, to a greater extent, by discounting the future cash flows, net of anticipated prepayments of the loans, using an interest rate for which loans with similar terms would be originated to new borrowers.  This methodology is applied to all loans, inclusive of impaired and non-accrual loans.

MSR –The fair value of the MSR is measured by the discounted anticipated cash flows through contractual maturity.

Deposits - The fair value of savings, money market, NOW, Super NOW and checking accounts is assumed to be their carrying amount. The fair value of certificates of deposit is based upon the present value of contractual cash flows using current interest rates for instruments of the same remaining maturity.

Escrow and Other Deposits - The estimated fair value of escrow and other deposits is assumed to be their carrying amount payable.

Securities sold under agreements to repurchase and Federal Home Loan Bank of New York advances - The fair value is measured by the discounted anticipated cash flows through contractual maturity or next interest repricing date, or an earlier call date if, as of the valuation date, the borrowing is expected to be called.  The carrying amount of accrued interest payable is their fair value.

Subordinated notes payable and Trust Preferred securities payable - The fair value is measured by an independent price quote obtained based upon comparable transactions that are occurring in the market as of the respective disclosure date.  The carrying amount of accrued interest payable is their fair value.

Commitments to Extend Credit - The fair value of commitments to extend credit is estimated using the fees currently charged to enter into similar agreements, taking into account the remaining terms of the agreements and the present creditworthiness of the counterparties. For fixed-rate loan commitments, fair value also considers the difference between current interest rates and the committed rates.

The estimated carrying amount and fair values of the Company's financial instruments at December 31, 2007 and December 31, 2006 were as follows:

 
At December 31, 2007
Carrying Amount
Fair
Value
Assets:
   
Cash and due from banks
$101,708
$101,708
Investment securities held-to-maturity
80
80
Investment securities available-for-sale
34,095
34,095
MBS available-for-sale
162,764
162,764
Loans, net
2,860,748
2,848,863
Loans held for sale
890
890
MSR
2,496
3,914
Federal funds sold and other short-term investments
128,014
128,014
FHLBNY capital stock
39,029
39,029
Liabilities:
   
Savings, money market, NOW, Super NOW and
   checking accounts
1,102,911
1,102,911
Certificates of deposit
1,077,087
1,076,362
Escrow and other deposits
52,209
52,209
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase
155,080
166,745
FHLBNY advances
706,500
719,452
Subordinated notes payable
25,000
25,750
Trust Preferred securities payable
72,165
57,732
Commitments to extend credit
590
590


F-

 
 

 


 
At December 31, 2006
Carrying Amount
Fair
Value
Assets:
   
Cash and due from banks
$26,264
$26,264
Investment securities held-to-maturity
235
235
Investment securities available-for-sale
29,548
29,548
MBS available-for-sale
154,437
154,437
Loans, net
2,686,959
2,670,036
Loans held for sale
1,200
1,200
MSR
2,592
3,497
Federal funds sold and other short-term investments
78,752
78,752
FHLBNY capital stock
31,295
31,295
Liabilities:
   
Savings, money market, NOW, Super NOW and
   checking accounts
943,863
943,863
Certificates of deposit
1,064,669
1,062,073
Escrow and other deposits
46,373
46,373
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase
120,235 
118,668
FHLBNY advances
571,500 
569,377
Subordinated notes payable
25,000 
26,875
Trust Preferred securities payable
72,165 
72,165
Commitments to extend credit
163
163

18.   TREASURY STOCK

The Holding Company purchased 2,298,726 shares, 777,539 shares and 801,384 shares of its common stock into treasury during the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively.  All shares were purchased in accordance with applicable regulations of the OTS and the SEC.

19.   REGULATORY MATTERS

The Bank is subject to various regulatory capital requirements established by the federal banking agencies.  Failure to satisfy minimum capital requirements may result in certain mandatory, and possibly additional discretionary, actions by regulators that, if undertaken, could have a direct material effect on the Company's consolidated financial statements.  Under capital adequacy guidelines and the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action, the Bank must satisfy specific capital guidelines that involve quantitative measures of its assets, liabilities, and certain off-balance-sheet items as calculated pursuant to regulatory accounting practices.  The Bank's capital amounts and classification are also subject to qualitative judgments by the regulators about components, risk weightings, and other factors.

Quantitative measures that have been established by regulation to ensure capital adequacy require the Bank to maintain minimum capital amounts and ratios (set forth in the table below).  The Bank's primary regulatory agency, the OTS, requires that the Bank maintain minimum ratios of tangible capital (as defined in the regulations) of 1.5%, and total risk-based capital (as defined in the regulations) of 8%.  In addition, insured institutions in the strongest financial and managerial condition, with a rating of one (the highest rating of the OTS under the Uniform Financial Institutions Rating System) are required to maintain a Leverage Capital Ratio  (the "Leverage Capital Ratio") of not less than 3.0% of total assets.  For all other banks, the minimum Leverage Capital Ratio requirement is 4.0%, unless a higher leverage capital ratio is warranted by the particular circumstances or risk profile of the institution.  The Bank is also subject to prompt corrective action requirement regulations promulgated by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.  These regulations require the Bank to maintain a minimum of Total and Tier I capital (as defined in the regulations) to risk-weighted assets (as defined in the regulations), and of Tier I capital to average assets (as defined in the regulations).  As of December 31, 2007, the Bank satisfied all capital adequacy requirements to which it was subject.

As of December 31, 2007 and 2006, the Bank satisfied all criteria necessary to be categorized as "well capitalized" under the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action.  To be categorized as "well capitalized," the Bank was required to maintain minimum total risk-based, Tier I risk-based, and Tier I leverage ratios as set forth in the following tables:

 
 
Actual
 
For Capital
Adequacy Purposes
 
To Be Categorized as "Well Capitalized"
As of December 31, 2007
Amount
Ratio
 
Amount
Ratio
 
Amount
Ratio
Tangible capital
$269,231
7.88%
 
$51,228
 1.5%
 
$170,761
5.00% 
Leverage capital
$269,231
7.88   
 
136,609
 4.0%
 
170,761
5.00    
Total risk-based capital (to risk
   weighted assets)
266,645
11.92   
 
178,954
8.0%
 
$223,693
10.00    
Tier I risk-based capital (to risk
   weighted assets)
251,258
11.23   
 
89,477
4.0%
 
134,216
6.00    
Tier I leverage capital (to average assets)
269,231
8.28   
 
N/A
N/A
 
162,660
5.00    

 
 
Actual
 
For Capital
Adequacy Purposes
 
To Be Categorized as "Well Capitalized"
As of December 31, 2006
Amount
Ratio
 
Amount
Ratio
 
Amount
Ratio
Tangible capital
$277,622
9.05%
 
$46,037
 1.5%
 
$153,458
5.00% 
Leverage capital
277,622
9.05   
 
122,766
 4.0%
 
153,458
5.00    
Total risk-based capital (to risk
   weighted assets)
276,864
12.61   
 
175,653
8.0%
 
219,566
10.00    
Tier I risk-based capital (to risk
   weighted assets)
261,350
11.90   
 
87,826
4.0%
 
131,739
6.00    
Tier I leverage capital (to average assets)
277,622
8.97   
 
N/A
N/A
 
154,801
5.00    

The following is a reconciliation of GAAP capital to regulatory capital for the Bank:

 
At December 31, 2007
 
At December 31, 2006
 
 
 
Tangible Capital
 
 
Leverage Capital
Total Risk-Based Capital
 
 
 
Tangible Capital
 
 
Leverage Capital
Total
Risk-Based Capital
GAAP capital
$321,091 
$321,091 
$321,091 
 
$326,456 
$326,456 
$326,456 
Non-allowable assets:
             
MSR
(254)
(254)
(254)
 
(265)
(265)
(265)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
4,032 
4,032 
4,032 
 
7,069 
7,069 
7,069 
Goodwill
(55,638)
(55,638)
(55,638)
 
(55,638)
(55,638)
(55,638)
Tier 1 risk-based capital
269,231 
269,231 
269,231 
 
277,622 
277,622 
277,622 
Adjustment for recourse provision on loans sold
-  
-  
(17,973)
 
-  
-  
(16,272)
General valuation allowance
-  
-  
15,387 
 
-  
-  
15,514 
Total (Tier 2) risk based capital
269,231 
269,231 
266,645 
 
277,622 
277,622 
276,864 
Minimum capital requirement
51,228 
136,609 
178,954 
 
46,037 
122,766 
175,653 
Regulatory capital excess
$218,003 
$132,622 
$87,691 
 
$231,585 
$154,856 
$101,211 


F-

 
 

 

20.   UNAUDITED QUARTERLY FINANCIAL INFORMATION

The following represents the unaudited consolidated results of operations for each of the quarters during the fiscal years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006.

 
For the three months ended
 
March 31,
2007
June 30,
2007
September 30, 2007
December 31, 2007
Net interest income
$17,886
$17,669 
$17,378
$18,080
Provision for loan losses
60
60 
60
60
Net interest income after
  provision for loan losses
 
17,826
 
17,609 
 
17,318
 
18,020
Non-interest income
2,490
2,387 
3,131
2,411
Non-interest expense
11,248
11,199 
11,717
11,337
Income before income taxes
9,068
8,797 
8,732
9,094
Income tax expense
3,251
3,152 
3,188
3,657
Net income
$5,817
$5,645 
$5,544
$5,437
Earnings per share (1):
       
  Basic
$0.17
$0.17
$0.17
$0.17
  Diluted
$0.17
$0.17
$0.17
$0.17

 
For the three months ended
 
March 31,
2006
June 30,
2006
September 30, 2006
December 31, 2006
Net interest income
$20,441
$20,851 
$18,706
$17,472
Provision for loan losses
60
60 
60
60
Net interest income after
  provision for loan losses
 
20,381
 
20,791 
 
18,646
 
17,412
Non-interest income
3,160
3,693 
3,135
2,402
Non-interest expense
10,448
10,528 
10,620
10,380
Income before income taxes
13,093
13,956 
11,161
9,434
Income tax expense
4,685
4,896 
4,002
3,469
Net income
$8,408
$9,060 
$7,159
$5,965
Earnings per share (1):
       
  Basic
$0.24
$0.26 
$0.21
$0.17
  Diluted
$0.24
$0.26 
$0.20
$0.17

(1) The quarterly earnings per share amounts, when added, may not coincide with the full fiscal year earnings per share reported on the Consolidated Statements of Operations due to differences in the computed weighted average shares outstanding as well as rounding differences.


F-

 
 

 

21.   CONDENSED PARENT COMPANY ONLY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The following statements of condition as of December 31, 2007 and 2006, and the related statements of operations and cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005, reflect the Holding Company's investment in its wholly-owned subsidiaries, the Bank and 842 Manhattan Avenue Corp., using the equity method of accounting:

DIME COMMUNITY BANCSHARES, INC.
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

 
At December 31,
At December 31,
 
2007
2006
ASSETS:
   
Cash and due from banks
$5,103
$4,427
Investment securities available-for-sale
7,112
6,947
MBS available-for-sale
1,279
1,792
Federal funds sold and other short term investments
22,733
39,678
ESOP loan to subsidiary
4,444
4,554
Investment in subsidiaries
321,737
327,089
Other assets
5,690
5,654
Total assets
$368,098
$390,141
     
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY:
   
Subordinated notes payable
$25,000
$25,000
Trust Preferred securities payable
72,165
72,165
Other liabilities
2,081
2,345
Stockholders' equity
268,852
290,631
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
$368,098
$390,141

DIME COMMUNITY BANCSHARES, INC.
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

 
Fiscal Year  Ended December 31,
 
2007
2006
2005
Net interest loss
$(5,902)
$(5,178)
$(5,911)
Dividends received from Bank
35,000 
58,012 
11 
Non-interest income
516 
1,215 
152 
Non-interest expense
(424)
(484)
(512)
Income (Loss) before income taxes and equity in
   undistributed earnings of direct subsidiaries
29,190 
53,565 
 (6,260)
Income tax credit
2,143 
698 
2,721 
Income (Loss) before equity in undistributed earnings
   of direct subsidiaries
31,333 
54,263 
 (3,539)
Equity in (overdistributed) undistributed earnings of subsidiaries
(8,890)
(23,671)
39,749 
Net income
$22,443 
$30,592 
$36,210 


F-

 
 

 


DIME COMMUNITY BANCSHARES, INC.
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

 
Fiscal Year Ended December 31,
 
2007
2006
2005
Cash flows from Operating Activities:
     
Net income
$22,443  
$30,592  
$36,210 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided
  by operating activities:
     
Equity in overdistributed (undistributed) earnings of direct subsidiaries
8,890 
23,671 
(39,749)
Gain on sale of assets
-  
(1,063)
-  
Net (amortization) and accretion
(547)
(594)
(299)
(Increase) Decrease in other assets
(36)
703 
461 
(Decrease) Increase in other liabilities
(89)
596 
(144)
Net cash provided by (used in) Operating Activities
30,661 
53,905 
(3,521)
       
Cash flows from Investing Activities:
     
Net Decrease (Increase) in federal funds sold and other short-term Investments
16,945 
(25,962)
23,235 
Proceeds from maturities of investment securities available-for-sale
-  
3,000 
25,000 
Proceeds from sale of investment securities available-for-sale
-  
3,032 
-  
Purchases of investment securities available-for-sale
-  
(3,029)
(15,000)
Principal collected on MBS available-for-sale
507 
571 
945 
Principal repayments on ESOP loan
110 
102 
94 
Net cash provided by (used in) Investing Activities
17,562 
(22,286)
34,274 
       
Cash flows from Financing Activities:
     
Cash dividends re-assumed through liquidation of RRP
958 
-  
-  
Common stock issued for exercise of stock options
136 
910 
2,307 
Purchase of common stock by the RRP
-  
-  
(80)
Cash dividends paid to stockholders
(18,991)
(19,751)
(19,868)
Purchase of treasury stock
(29,650)
(11,024)
(12,178)
Benefit plan payments reimbursed by subsidiary
-  
-  
777 
Net cash used in financing activities
(47,547)
(29,865)
(29,042)
       
Net increase in cash and due from banks
676 
1,754 
1,711 
Cash and due from banks, beginning of period
4,427 
2,673 
962 
Cash and due from banks, end of period
$5,103 
$4,427 
$2,673 


*   *   *   *   *

F-

 
 

 


Exhibit Number
3(i)
 
Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. (1)
3(ii)
 
Amended and Restated Bylaws of Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. (2)
4.1
 
Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. [See Exhibit 3(i) hereto]
4.2
 
Amended and Restated Bylaws of Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. [See Exhibit 3(ii) hereto]
4.3
 
Draft Stock Certificate of Dime Community Bancshares, Inc.  (3)
4.4
 
Certificate of Designations, Preferences and Rights of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock (4)
4.5
 
Rights Agreement, dated as of April 9, 1998, between Dime Community Bancorp, Inc. and ChaseMellon Shareholder
   Services, L.L.C., as Rights Agent (4)
4.6
 
Form of Rights Certificate (4)
4.7
 
Second Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust, dated as of July 29, 2004, by and among Wilmington Trust
   Company, as Delaware Trustee, Wilmington Trust Company as Institutional Trustee, Dime Community Bancshares,
   Inc., as Sponsor, the Administrators of Dime Community Capital Trust I and the holders from time to time of undivided
   beneficial interests in the assets of Dime Community Capital Trust I (9)
4.8
 
Indenture, dated as of March 19, 2004, between Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. and Wilmington Trust Company, as
   trustee (9)
4.9
 
Series B Guarantee Agreement, dated as of July 29, 2004, executed and delivered by Dime Community Bancshares,
   Inc., as Guarantor and Wilmington Trust Company, as Guarantee Trustee, for the benefit of the holders from time to
   time of the Series B Capital Securities of Dime Community Capital Trust I (9)
10.1
 
Amended and Restated Employment Agreement between The Dime Savings Bank of Williamsburgh and Vincent F.
   Palagiano (5)
10.2
 
Amended and Restated Employment Agreement between The Dime Savings Bank of Williamsburgh and Michael P.
   Devine (5)
10.3
 
Amended and Restated Employment Agreement between The Dime Savings Bank of Williamsburgh and
   Kenneth J. Mahon (5)
10.4
 
Employment Agreement between Dime Community Bancorp, Inc. and Vincent F. Palagiano (10)
10.5
 
Employment Agreement between Dime Community Bancorp, Inc. and Michael P. Devine  (10)
10.6
 
Employment Agreement between Dime Community Bancorp, Inc. and Kenneth J. Mahon (10)
10.7
 
Form of Employee Retention Agreement by and among The Dime Savings Bank of Williamsburgh, Dime Community
   Bancorp, Inc. and certain officers (5)
10.8
 
The Benefit Maintenance Plan of Dime Community Bancorp, Inc. (6)
10.9
 
Severance Pay Plan of The Dime Savings Bank of Williamsburgh (5)
10.10
 
Retirement Plan for Board Members of Dime Community Bancorp, Inc. (6)
10.11
 
Dime Community Bancorp, Inc. 1996 Stock Option Plan for Outside Directors, Officers and Employees, as amended
   by amendments number 1 and 2 (6)
10.12
 
Recognition and Retention Plan for Outside Directors, Officers and Employees of Dime Community Bancorp, Inc., as
   amended by amendments number 1 and 2 (6)
10.13
 
Form of stock option agreement for Outside Directors under Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. 1996 and 2001
   Stock Option Plans for Outside Directors, Officers and Employees and the 2004 Stock Incentive Plan. (6)
10.14
 
Form of stock option agreement for officers and employees under Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. 1996 and 2001
   Stock Option Plans for Outside Directors, Officers and Employees and the 2004 Stock Incentive Plan (6)
10.15
 
Form of award notice for outside directors under the Recognition and Retention Plan for Outside Directors, Officers
   and Employees of Dime Community Bancorp, Inc. (6)
10.16
 
Form of award notice for officers and employees under the Recognition and Retention Plan for Outside Directors,
   Officers and Employees of Dime Community Bancorp, Inc. (6)
10.17
 
Financial Federal Savings Bank Incentive Savings Plan in RSI Retirement Trust (7)
10.18
 
Financial Federal Savings Bank Employee Stock Ownership Plan (7)
10.19
 
Option Conversion Certificates between Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. and each of Messrs. Russo, Segrete,
   Calamari, Latawiec, O'Gorman, and Ms. Swaya pursuant to Section 1.6(b) of the Agreement and Plan of Merger,
   dated as of July 18, 1998 by and between Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. and Financial Bancorp, Inc. (7)
10.20
 
Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. 2001 Stock Option Plan for Outside Directors, Officers and Employees (8)
10.21
 
Dime Community Bancshares, Inc. 2004 Stock Incentive Plan for Outside Directors, Officers and Employees (11)
10.22
 
Waiver executed by Vincent F. Palagiano (13)
   
Table continued on next page


F-

 
 

 


10.23
 
Waiver executed by Michael P. Devine (13)
10.24
 
Waiver executed by Kenneth J. Mahon (13)
10.25
 
Form of restricted stock award notice for officers and employees under the 2004 Stock Incentive Plan (12)
10.26
 
Employee Retention Agreement between The Dime Savings Bank of Williamsburgh and Christopher D. Maher (14)
10.27
 
Form of restricted stock award notice for outside directors under the 2004 Stock Incentive Plan
21
 
Subsidiaries of the Registrant
31(i).1
 
Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Rule .13a-14(a)/15d-14(a)
31(i).2
 
Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a)
32.1
 
Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 1350
32.2
 
Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 1350

(1)
Incorporated by reference to the registrant's Transition Report on Form 10-K for the transition period ended December 31, 2002 filed on March 28, 2003.
(2)
Incorporated by reference to the registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2007 filed on August 9, 2007.
(3)
Incorporated by reference to the registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 1998 filed on September 28, 1998.
(4)
Incorporated by reference to the registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K dated April 9, 1998 and filed on April 16, 1998.
(5)
Incorporated by reference to Exhibits to the registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 1997 filed on September 26, 1997.
(6)
Incorporated by reference to the registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 1997 filed on September 26, 1997, and the Current Reports on Form 8-K filed on March 22, 2004 and March 29, 2005.
(7)
Incorporated by reference to the registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2000 filed on September 28, 2000.
(8)
Incorporated by reference to the registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2003 filed on November 14, 2003.
(9)
Incorporated by reference to Exhibits to the registrant’s Registration Statement No. 333-117743 on Form S-4 filed on July 29, 2004.
(10)
Incorporated by reference to the registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003 filed on March 15, 2004.
(11)
Incorporated by reference to the registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2004 filed on March 16, 2005.
(12)
Incorporated by reference to the registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 22, 2005.
(13)
Incorporated by reference to the registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2005 filed on May 10, 2005.
(14)
Incorporated by reference to the registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2006 filed on November 9, 2006.



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