htlf10k.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 fiscal year ended December 31, 2009

Commission File Number: 0-24724

HEARTLAND FINANCIAL USA, INC.
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware
42-1405748
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
(I.R.S. Employer identification number)

1398 Central Avenue, Dubuque, Iowa 52001
(563) 589-2100
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of Class
Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered
Common Stock $1.00 par value
The NASDAQ Global Select Market
Preferred Share Purchase Rights
 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
None

Indicate by check mark if the Registrant is a well-known seasoned 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 Section 15(d) of the Exchange 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 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes X  No

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

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

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Act.
Large accelerated filer                 Accelerated filer    X               Non-accelerated filer                  Smaller reporting company
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a shell company (as defined in Exchange Act Rule 12b-2).  Yes      No  X

The aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates of the Registrant, based on the last sales price quoted on the NASDAQ Global Select Market on June 30, 2009, the last business day of the registrant's most recently completed second fiscal quarter, was approximately $207,811,366.  Such figures include 1,644,396 shares of the Registrant's Common Stock held in a fiduciary capacity by the trust department of the Dubuque Bank and Trust Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Registrant.

As of March 15, 2010, the Registrant had issued and outstanding 16,347,086 shares of common stock, $1.00 par value per share.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Portions of the Proxy Statement for the 2010 Annual Meeting of Stockholders are incorporated by reference into Part III.

 

 


HEARTLAND FINANCIAL USA, INC.
Form 10-K Annual Report
Table of Contents

Part I
 
 
     
Item 1.
Business
 
A.
General Description
 
B.
Market Areas
 
C.
Competition
 
D.
Employees
 
E.
Internet Access 
 
F.
Supervision and Regulation
 
G.
Governmental Monetary Policy and Economic Conditions
 
Item 1A.
Risk Factors
 
Item 1B.
Unresolved Staff Comments
 
Item 2.
Properties
 
Item 3.
Legal Proceedings
 
Item 4.
[Reserved]
 
 
Executive Officers
 
     
Part II
   
     
Item 5.
Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities 
 
Item 6.
Selected Financial Data
 
Item 7.
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 
 
Item 7A.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk  
 
Item 8.
Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
 
Item 9.
Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure 
 
Item 9A.
Controls and Procedures
 
Item 9B.
Other Information
 
     
Part III
   
     
Item 10.
Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
 
Item 11.
Executive Compensation
 
Item 12.
Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters
 
Item 13.
Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
 
Item 14.
Principal Accountant Fees and Services 
 
     
Part IV
   
     
Item 15.
Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules
 


 

 


PART I.

ITEM 1.

BUSINESS

A.      GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Heartland Financial USA, Inc. ("Heartland"), reincorporated in the state of Delaware in 1993, is a multi-bank holding company registered under the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended ("BHCA"). Heartland has ten bank subsidiaries in the states of Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin, New Mexico, Arizona, Montana, Colorado and Minnesota, (collectively, the "Bank Subsidiaries"). All ten Bank Subsidiaries are members of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation ("FDIC"). The Bank Subsidiaries listed below operate a total of 61 banking locations:

*
Dubuque Bank and Trust Company, Dubuque, Iowa, is chartered under the laws of the State of Iowa. Dubuque Bank and Trust Company has two wholly-owned subsidiaries: DB&T Insurance, Inc., a multi-line insurance agency and DB&T Community Development Corp., a partner in low-income housing and historic rehabilitation projects.
*
Galena State Bank & Trust Co., Galena, Illinois, is chartered under the laws of the State of Illinois.
*
First Community Bank, Keokuk, Iowa, is chartered under the laws of the State of Iowa.
*
Riverside Community Bank, Rockford, Illinois, is chartered under the laws of the State of Illinois.
*
Wisconsin Community Bank, Madison, Wisconsin, is chartered under the laws of the State of Wisconsin.
*
New Mexico Bank & Trust, Albuquerque, New Mexico, is chartered under the laws of the State of New Mexico.
*
Rocky Mountain Bank, Billings, Montana, is chartered under the laws of the State of Montana.
*
Arizona Bank & Trust, Phoenix, Arizona, is chartered under the laws of the State of Arizona.
*
Summit Bank & Trust, Broomfield, Colorado, is chartered under the laws of the State of Colorado.
*
Minnesota Bank & Trust, Edina, Minnesota, is chartered under the laws of the State of Minnesota.

Heartland has eight active non-bank subsidiaries as listed below:

*
Citizens Finance Co. is a consumer finance company with offices in Iowa, Illinois and Wisconsin.
*
Heartland Community Development Inc. is a property management company with a primary purpose of holding and managing certain nonperforming assets acquired from the Bank Subsidiaries.
*
Heartland Financial Statutory Trust III, Heartland Financial Statutory Trust IV, Heartland Financial Statutory Trust V, Heartland Financial Statutory Trust VI, Heartland Financial Statutory Trust VII and Rocky Mountain Statutory Trust I are special purpose trust subsidiaries of Heartland formed for the purpose of the offering of cumulative capital securities.

All of Heartland’s subsidiaries are wholly owned, except for Summit Bank & Trust, of which Heartland owned 86% of the capital stock on December 31, 2009, and Minnesota Bank & Trust, of which Heartland owned 80% of the capital stock on December 31, 2009.

At December 31, 2009, Heartland had total assets of $4.0 billion, total loans of $2.3 billion and total deposits of $3.1 billion. Heartland’s total capital as of December 31, 2009, was $315.1 million. Net income available to common stockholders for 2009 was $1.2 million.

The Bank Subsidiaries provide full service commercial and retail banking in the communities in which they are located. Deposit products offered by the Bank Subsidiaries include checking and other demand deposit accounts, NOW accounts, savings accounts, money market accounts, certificates of deposit, individual retirement accounts, health savings accounts and other time deposits. The deposits in the Bank Subsidiaries are insured by the FDIC to the full extent permitted by law. Loans include commercial and industrial, agricultural, real estate mortgage, consumer, home equity and lines of credit. Other products and services include VISA debit cards, automated teller machines, online banking, safe deposit boxes and trust services. The principal service of the Bank Subsidiaries consists of making loans to and accepting deposits from businesses and individuals. These loans are made at the offices of the Bank Subsidiaries. The Bank Subsidiaries also engage in activities that are closely related to banking, including investment brokerage and insurance sales.

Operating Strategy

Heartland’s operating strategy is based upon a community banking model with three major components:

1.  
Develop strong community banks:

*
Establish community bank names and images
*
Encourage community involvement and leadership
*
Maintain active boards of directors chosen from the local community
*
Retain local presidents and decision-making
 
    2. Provide resources for revenue enhancement:

*
Develop and implement a wide array of financial products and services for all Bank Subsidiaries
*
Improve Bank Subsidiary funding costs by reducing higher-cost certificates of deposit; increasing the percentage of lower-cost transaction accounts such as checking, savings and money market accounts; emphasizing relationship banking and capitalizing on cross-selling opportunities
*
Emphasize greater use of non-traditional sources of income, including trust and investment services, insurance and consumer finance
*
Evaluate and acquire state-of-the-art technology when the expected return justifies the cost
 
    3. Provide customer-transparent cost savings:

*
Centralize back office support functions so Bank Subsidiaries operate as efficiently as possible

Management believes the personal and professional service offered to customers provides an appealing alternative to the "megabanks" resulting from mergers and acquisitions in the financial services industry. While Heartland employs a community banking philosophy, management believes Heartland’s size, combined with its complete line of financial products and services, is sufficient to effectively compete in the respective market areas. To remain price competitive, management also believes Heartland must manage expenses and gain economies of scale by centralizing back office support functions. Although each of Heartland’s subsidiaries operates under the direction of its own board of directors, Heartland has standard operating policies regarding asset/liability management, liquidity management, investment management, lending and deposit structure management.

Another component of the operating strategy is to encourage all directors, officers and employees to maintain a strong ownership interest in Heartland. Since 1996, Heartland has provided an employee stock purchase plan. As of December 31, 2009, employees, officers, and directors owned approximately 35% of Heartland’s outstanding common stock.

Acquisition and Expansion Strategy

Heartland’s strategy is to increase profitability and diversify its market area and asset base by expanding existing subsidiaries through acquisitions. In the current environment, Heartland is seeking opportunities for growth via FDIC facilitated acquisitions within existing markets. Heartland would not rule out a FDIC facilitated transaction in a new market that fits our business model and would be immediately additive to earnings. Heartland acquires established financial services organizations, primarily commercial banks or thrifts, when suitable candidates are identified and acceptable business terms can be negotiated. Heartland has also formed de novo banking institutions in locations determined to have market potential and suitable management candidates with banking expertise and a philosophy similar to Heartland’s.

Heartland has focused on markets with growth potential in the Midwestern and Western regions of the United States as it evaluates expansion and acquisition opportunities. In August 2003, Heartland and a group of investors opened Arizona Bank & Trust, a de novo banking operation, followed with a second location in 2004 and a third location in 2005. In 2006, Arizona Bank & Trust expanded by acquiring Bank of the Southwest, a financial institution providing retail and commercial banking services in Phoenix and Tempe, Arizona. Heartland combined the acquired assets and deposit accounts of Bank of the Southwest into Arizona Bank & Trust in May 2006. A sixth location was opened in 2007.

Heartland took another step in the expansion of its Western presence in June 2004 when it acquired Rocky Mountain Bancorporation, Inc., the one-bank holding company of Rocky Mountain Bank. Headquartered in Billings, Montana, Rocky Mountain Bank has nine branch locations throughout the state.

In November 2006, Heartland and a group of investors opened Summit Bank & Trust, a de novo banking operation in Broomfield, Colorado. The capital structure of Heartland’s ninth state-chartered bank was very similar to that used when Arizona Bank & Trust was formed. Heartland’s initial investment was $12.0 million, or 80% of the targeted $15.0 million initial capital. In 2007, Summit Bank & Trust opened two additional locations. One of Heartland’s strategic goals is to expand its presence in the Western markets to 50% of its total assets, thereby balancing the growth in its Western markets with the stability of the Midwestern markets.

In April of 2008, Heartland and a group of investors opened Minnesota Bank & Trust in Edina, Minnesota. The capital structure of Minnesota Bank & Trust is very similar to that used when Arizona Bank & Trust and Summit Bank & Trust were formed, including 20% ownership by a group of local investors. Heartland’s initial investment was $13.2 million, or 80% of the targeted $16.5 million opening capital.

In July of 2009, Galena State Bank & Trust Co. acquired the deposits of The Elizabeth State Bank in Elizabeth, Illinois in a whole bank with loss sharing transaction facilitated by the FDIC. In addition to assuming all of the deposits of the failed bank, Galena State Bank & Trust Co. purchased $53.6 million of assets.

Lending Activities

General

The Bank Subsidiaries provide a range of commercial and retail lending services to businesses and individuals. These credit activities include agricultural, commercial, residential real estate and consumer loans.

The Bank Subsidiaries market their services to qualified lending customers. Lending officers actively solicit the business of new companies entering their market areas as well as long-standing members of the Bank Subsidiaries' respective business communities. Through professional service, competitive pricing, and innovative structure, the Bank Subsidiaries have been successful in attracting new lending customers. Heartland also actively pursues consumer lending opportunities. With convenient locations, advertising and customer communications, the Bank Subsidiaries have been successful in capitalizing on the credit needs of their market areas.

Commercial Loans

The Bank Subsidiaries have a strong commercial loan base. Dubuque Bank and Trust Company, in particular, continues to be a premier commercial lender in the tri-state area of northeast Iowa, northwest Illinois and southwest Wisconsin. The Bank Subsidiaries' current portfolios include, but are not limited to, loans to wholesalers, hospitality industry, real estate developers, manufacturers, building contractors, business services companies and retailers. The Bank Subsidiaries provide a wide range of business loans, including lines of credit for working capital and operational purposes and term loans for the acquisition of equipment and real estate. Although most loans are made on a secured basis, loans may be made on an unsecured basis where warranted by the overall financial condition of the borrower. Terms of commercial business loans generally range from one to five years.

The Bank Subsidiaries continue to seek opportunities to expand the production of loans guaranteed by U.S. government agencies. Wisconsin Community Bank, Rocky Mountain Bank and New Mexico Bank & Trust are each designated as a Preferred Lender by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). These three banks, along with Riverside Community Bank, are also designated as SBA Express Lenders. Additionally, Wisconsin Community Bank has been granted USDA Certified Lender status for the USDA Rural Development Business and Industry loan program and has been one of the leading lenders in the Midwest for this program. Management believes that making these guaranteed loans helps the communities where it operates and provides Heartland with a source of income and solid future lending relationships with local businesses as they grow and prosper.

The Bank Subsidiaries’ commercial loans and leases are primarily made based on the identified cash flow of the borrower and secondarily on the underlying collateral provided by the borrower. The collateral support provided by the borrower for most of these loans and leases  is based upon the liquidation of the pledged collateral and enforcement of a personal guarantee, if any exists. The primary repayment risks of commercial loans and leases are that the cash flow of the borrowers may be unpredictable, and the collateral securing these loans may fluctuate in value.

Heartland understands the roles that sound credit skills and a common credit culture play in maintaining quality loan portfolios.  As the credit portfolios of the Bank Subsidiaries have continued to grow, several changes have been made in their lending departments resulting in an overall increase in these departments' skill levels. Heartland utilizes the RMA Diagnostic Assessment for assessing the credit skills and training needs for its credit personnel and develops specific individualized training. All new lending personnel are expected to complete a similar diagnostic training program.  Heartland also assists all of the commercial and agricultural lenders of the Bank Subsidiaries in the analysis and underwriting of credit through its staff in the credit administration department.

Commercial lenders interact with their respective boards of directors each month. Heartland also utilizes an internal loan review function to analyze credits of the Bank Subsidiaries and to provide periodic reports to the respective boards of directors. Management has attempted to identify problem loans at an early date and to aggressively seek resolution of these situations.

The slowdown in the overall economy has negatively impacted Heartland’s overall asset quality in 2008 and 2009. Heartland has utilized a Special Assets group to focus on resolving problem assets. All commercial or agricultural loans in a default or workout status are assigned to the Special Assets group. Representatives of the Special Assets group meet with representatives from each bank on a monthly basis. Heartland anticipates continued focus with additional personnel assigned to this group in 2010.

Agricultural Loans

Agricultural loans are emphasized by Dubuque Bank and Trust Company, Rocky Mountain Bank, Wisconsin Community Bank’s Monroe banking center and New Mexico Bank & Trust’s Clovis banking offices. The Bank Subsidiaries that emphasize agricultural loans do so because of their location in or around rural markets. Dubuque Bank and Trust Company maintains its status as one of the largest agricultural lenders in the State of Iowa. Agricultural loans remain balanced in proportion to the rest of Heartland's loan portfolio, constituting approximately 11% of the total loan portfolio at December 31, 2009. Heartland’s policies designate a primary and secondary lending area for each bank with the majority of outstanding agricultural operating and real estate loans to customers located within the primary lending area. Term loans secured by real estate are allowed within the secondary lending area.

Agricultural loans, many of which are secured by crops, machinery and real estate, are provided to finance capital improvements and farm operations as well as acquisitions of livestock and machinery. The ability of the borrower to repay may be affected by many factors outside of the borrower’s control including adverse weather conditions, loss of livestock due to disease or other factors, declines in market prices for agricultural products and the impact of government regulations. The ultimate repayment of agricultural loans is dependent upon the profitable operation or management of the agricultural entity.

The agricultural loan departments work closely with all of their customers, including companies and individual farmers, and review the preparation of budgets and cash flow projections for the ensuing crop year. These budgets and cash flow projections are monitored closely during the year and reviewed with the customers at least annually. The Bank Subsidiaries also work closely with governmental agencies, including the Farm Services Agency, to help agricultural customers obtain credit enhancement products such as loan guarantees or interest assistance.

Residential Real Estate Mortgage Loans

Mortgage lending remains a focal point for the Bank Subsidiaries as each of them continues to build its real estate lending business. As long-term interest rates have remained at relatively low levels during the past several years, many customers elected mortgage loans that are fixed rate with fifteen or thirty year maturities. Heartland usually sells these loans into the secondary market and retains servicing on the loans sold to Fannie Mae. Management believes that mortgage servicing on sold loans provides the Bank Subsidiaries with a relatively steady source of fee income compared to fees generated solely from mortgage origination operations. Moreover, the retention of servicing gives the Bank Subsidiaries the opportunity to maintain regular contact with mortgage loan customers. At December 31, 2009, total residential real estate mortgage loans serviced for others totaled $1.15 billion.

As with agricultural and commercial loans, Heartland encourages the Bank Subsidiaries to participate in lending programs sponsored by U.S. government agencies when justified by market conditions. Veterans Administration and Federal Home Administration loans are offered at all of the Bank Subsidiaries.

Consumer Lending

The Bank Subsidiaries' consumer lending departments provide all types of consumer loans including motor vehicle, home improvement, home equity and small personal credit lines. Consumer loans typically have shorter terms, lower balances, higher yields and higher risks of default than one- to four-family residential mortgage loans. Consumer loan collections are dependent on the borrower’s continuing financial stability, and are therefore more likely to be affected by adverse personal circumstances.

Citizens Finance Co. specializes in consumer lending and currently serves the consumer credit needs of approximately 8,200 customers in Iowa, Illinois and Wisconsin from its Dubuque, Davenport and Cedar Rapids, Iowa; Madison and Appleton, Wisconsin; and Loves Park, Crystal Lake and Tinley Park, Illinois offices. Citizens Finance Co. typically lends to borrowers with past credit problems or limited credit histories. Heartland expects to incur a higher level of credit losses on Citizens Finance Co. loans compared to consumer loans originated by the Bank Subsidiaries. Correspondingly, returns on these loans are anticipated to be higher than those at the Bank Subsidiaries.

Trust and Investment Services

Dubuque Bank and Trust Company, Galena State Bank & Trust Co., Riverside Community Bank, Wisconsin Community Bank, New Mexico Bank & Trust, Arizona Bank & Trust and Minnesota Bank & Trust offer trust and investment services in their respective communities. In those markets which do not yet warrant a full trust department, the sales and administration is performed by Dubuque Bank and Trust Company personnel. As of December 31, 2009, total Heartland trust assets were $1.7 billion, the vast majority of which were assets under management. Collectively, the Bank Subsidiaries provide a full complement of trust and investment services for individuals and corporations.

Dubuque Bank and Trust Company is nationally recognized as a leading provider of socially responsible investment services, and it manages investment portfolios for religious and other non-profit organizations located throughout the United States. Dubuque Bank and Trust Company is also Heartland’s lead bank in providing daily valuation 401(k) plans and other retirement services, including Heartland’s retirement plan for its employees.

Heartland has formed a strategic alliance with LPL Financial Institution Services, a division of LPL Financial, to operate independent securities offices at all of the Bank Subsidiaries. Through LPL Financial, Heartland offers a full array of investment services including mutual funds, annuities, retirement products, education savings products, brokerage services, employer sponsored plans and insurance products. A complete line of vehicle, property and casualty, life and disability insurance and tax-free annuities are also offered by Heartland through DB&T Insurance.

B.      MARKET AREAS

Dubuque Bank and Trust Company

Dubuque Bank and Trust Company is located in Dubuque County, Iowa, which encompasses the city of Dubuque and a number of surrounding rural communities. Citizens Finance Co. is also headquartered in this market with additional offices in Davenport, Iowa; Cedar Rapids, Iowa; Madison, Wisconsin; Appleton, Wisconsin; Loves Park, Illinois; Tinley Park, Illinois and Crystal Lake, Illinois.

The city of Dubuque is located in northeastern Iowa, on the Mississippi River, approximately 175 miles west of Chicago, Illinois, and approximately 200 miles northeast of Des Moines, Iowa. It is strategically situated at the intersection of the state borders of Iowa, Illinois and Wisconsin. Based upon the results of the 2000 census, the city of Dubuque had a total population of approximately 58,000.

The principal offices of Heartland and Dubuque Bank and Trust Company’s main bank currently occupy the same building. Heartland’s operations center is located directly across the street from Dubuque Bank and Trust Company’s main office.

In addition to its main banking office, Dubuque Bank and Trust Company operates seven branch offices, all of which are located in Dubuque County. As a subsidiary of Dubuque Bank and Trust Company, DB&T Insurance has substantially the same market area as the parent organization.


Galena State Bank & Trust Co.

Galena State Bank & Trust Co. is located in Galena, Illinois, approximately 20 miles east of Dubuque and 155 miles west of Chicago. Galena operates a second office in Stockton, Illinois. In conjunction with an FDIC assisted transaction in 2009, Galena acquired all deposits of The Elizabeth State Bank in Elizabeth, Illinois and two offices in Elizabeth, Illinois and Galena. The four offices are located in Jo Daviess County, which has a population of approximately 22,000, according to the 2000 census.

First Community Bank

First Community Bank’s main office is in Keokuk, Iowa, which is located in the southeast corner of Iowa near the borders of Iowa, Missouri and Illinois. Due to its location, First Community Bank serves customers in the tri-county region of Lee County, Iowa; Hancock County, Illinois; and Clark County, Missouri. First Community Bank has one branch office in Keokuk and another branch in the city of Carthage in Hancock County, Illinois. Keokuk is an industrial community with a population of approximately 11,000, and the population of Lee County is approximately 38,000.

Riverside Community Bank

Riverside Community Bank is located on the northeast edge of Rockford, Illinois, which is approximately 75 miles west of Chicago in Winnebago County. In addition to its main banking office, Riverside Community Bank has three branch offices, all of which are located in the Winnebago County area. Based on the 2000 census, the county had a population of 278,000, and the city of Rockford had a population of 150,000.

Wisconsin Community Bank

Wisconsin Community Bank’s main office is located in Madison, Wisconsin, in Dane County. Wisconsin Community Bank operates three branch offices in the Madison suburbs. The main office was constructed in 2007. According to the 2000 census, Dane County had a population of 427,000. Wisconsin Community Bank also has a location in Monroe, Wisconsin. The city of Monroe, which is approximately 50 miles southwest of Madison, is located in Green County in south central Wisconsin. Wisconsin Community Bank has two offices in Sheboygan and DePere, Wisconsin that operate under the name of Heartland Business Bank. The Sheboygan and DePere facilities are located in the northeastern Wisconsin counties of Sheboygan and Brown.

New Mexico Bank & Trust

New Mexico Bank & Trust operates ten offices in or around Albuquerque, New Mexico, in Bernalillo County. Based upon the 2000 census, the county had a population of 557,000, and the city had a population of 449,000. New Mexico Bank & Trust also operates from four locations in east central New Mexico. The majority of these four locations are in Clovis, the county seat for Curry County, located approximately 220 miles east of Albuquerque, 100 miles northwest of Lubbock, Texas and 105 miles southwest of Amarillo, Texas. In addition, New Mexico Bank & Trust operates two branch offices in Santa Fe, in Santa Fe County.

Arizona Bank & Trust

Arizona Bank & Trust currently operates six offices in Arizona; including the main office in Phoenix, one in Mesa, one in Tempe, one in Gilbert and two in Chandler. These cities are all located in the Phoenix metropolitan area within Maricopa County. The 2000 census reported the population of the Phoenix metro area to be 3,252,000. According to the ranking tables prepared by the U.S. Census Bureau, the population of the Phoenix metro area increased by 45% from 1990 through 2000, helping make Arizona the second fastest growing state in the nation in the 1990s. The cities of Phoenix, Mesa, Tempe, Gilbert and Chandler are among the eight cities in the Phoenix metro area with a population of 100,000 or more.

Rocky Mountain Bank

Rocky Mountain Bank operates from nine locations throughout the state of Montana. Rocky Mountain Bank’s main office is in Billings which is the state’s largest city and an agricultural, retail and business center. Billings is also the county seat of Yellowstone County within south-central Montana along Interstate-90. Based upon the 2000 census, the county had a population of 129,000 and the city had a population of 90,000. Six of the locations are spread primarily along the western corridor of the state of Montana.

Summit Bank & Trust

The main facility for Summit Bank & Trust is in Broomfield, Colorado. The city and county of Broomfield is located in the northwestern tier of the Denver-Aurora Metropolitan Area. The population of Broomfield was estimated at 43,000 in 2005 by the U.S. Census Bureau. Broomfield is the sixteenth most populous city in the state of Colorado. A second location was opened in June 2007 in Thornton, just north of the Denver International Airport and a third location was added in October of 2007 in the town of Erie, Colorado which is approximately 25 miles north of Denver.

Minnesota Bank & Trust

Minnesota Bank & Trust currently operates from a leased facility in Edina, Minnesota. Edina is centrally located between Minneapolis and the southwest suburbs of the Twin Cities. The population of Edina was estimated at 45,000 in 2006 by the U.S. Census Bureau.
 

 
The following table sets forth certain information concerning the Bank Subsidiaries as of December 31, 2009:

Heartland Bank Subsidiaries
(Dollars in thousands)
         
 
 
Bank Subsidiaries
 
Charter
Location
Year
Acquired
or Opened
Number
Of
Locations
Total
Portfolio
Loans
 
Total
Deposits
Dubuque Bank and Trust Company
Dubuque, IA
1935
8
$ 658,274
$ 864,133
Galena State Bank & Trust Co.
Galena, IL
1992
4
$ 134,104
$ 253,073
First Community Bank
Keokuk, IA
1994
3
$   72,113
$ 100,328
Riverside Community Bank
Rockford, IL
1995
4
$ 161,280
$ 232,459
Wisconsin Community Bank
Madison, WI
1997
7
$ 274,487
$ 358,994
New Mexico Bank & Trust
Albuquerque, NM
1998
16
$ 502,497
$ 589,468
Arizona Bank & Trust
Phoenix, AZ
2003
6
$ 138,604
$ 202,730
Rocky Mountain Bank
Billings, MT
2004
9
$ 292,914
$ 376,487
Summit Bank & Trust
Broomfield, CO
2006
3
$   58,108
$   85,131
Minnesota Bank & Trust
Edina, MN
2008
1
$   24,472
$   34,616

C.  COMPETITION

Heartland encounters competition in all areas of its business pursuits. To compete effectively, develop its market base, maintain flexibility, and keep pace with changing economic and social conditions, Heartland continuously refines and develops its products and services. The principal methods of competing in the financial services industry are through product selection, personal service and convenience.

The Bank Subsidiaries' market areas are highly competitive. Many financial institutions based in the communities surrounding the Bank Subsidiaries actively compete for customers within Heartland's market area. The Bank Subsidiaries also face competition from finance companies, insurance companies, mortgage companies, securities brokerage firms, money market funds, loan production offices and other providers of financial services. Under the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act, effective in 2000, securities firms and insurance companies that elect to become financial holding companies may acquire banks and other financial institutions. The Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act significantly changed the competitive environment in which Heartland and the Bank Subsidiaries conduct business. The financial services industry is also likely to become more competitive as technological advances enable more companies to provide financial services. These technological advances may diminish the importance of depository institutions and other financial intermediaries in the transfer of funds between parties.

Heartland competes for loans principally through the range and quality of the services it provides, with an emphasis on building long-lasting relationships. Our strategy is to delight our customers through excellence in customer service and needs-based selling. We become their trusted financial advisor. Heartland believes that its long-standing presence in the community and personal service philosophy enhance its ability to compete favorably in attracting and retaining individual and business customers. Heartland actively solicits deposit-oriented clients and competes for deposits by offering its customers personal attention, professional service and competitive interest rates.

D.      EMPLOYEES

At December 31, 2009, Heartland employed 1,001 full-time equivalent employees. Heartland places a high priority on staff development, which involves extensive training in a variety of areas, including customer service training. New employees are selected based upon their technical skills and customer service capabilities. None of Heartland's employees are covered by a collective bargaining agreement. Heartland offers a variety of employee benefits, and management considers its employee relations to be excellent. Heartland utilizes Predictive Index software to assist with placing potential employees in new positions within Heartland and with evaluating current positions.

E.      INTERNET ACCESS

Heartland maintains an Internet site at www.htlf.com. Heartland offers its annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and other reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”) free of charge from its Web site as soon as reasonably practical after meeting the electronic filing requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission.

F.      SUPERVISION AND REGULATION

General

Financial institutions, their holding companies and their affiliates are extensively regulated under federal and state law. As a result, the growth and earnings performance of Heartland may be affected not only by management decisions and general economic conditions, but also by the requirements of federal and state statutes and by the regulations and policies of various bank regulatory authorities.

As a bank holding company with subsidiary banks chartered under the laws of eight different states, Heartland is regulated by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (the “Federal Reserve”). Each of the Bank Subsidiaries is regulated by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) as its principal federal regulator and one of the following as its state regulator: the Arizona State Banking Department (the “Arizona Department”), the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies, Division of Banking (the “Colorado Division”), the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (the “Illinois DFPR”), the Iowa Superintendent of Banking (the “Iowa Superintendent”), the Minnesota Department of Commerce: Division of Financial Institutions (the “Minnesota Division”), the Montana Division of Banking and Financial Institutions (the “Montana Division”), the New Mexico Financial Institutions Division (the “New Mexico FID”), the Division of Banking of the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (the “Wisconsin DFI”).

As a recipient of Capital Purchase Program funds under the Troubled Asset Relief Program (“TARP ”) established by the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 (“EESA”), Heartland is also subject to direct supervision by the United States Department of the Treasury (“Treasury”).

Taxation laws administered by the Internal Revenue Service and state taxing authorities and securities laws administered by the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and state securities authorities also have an impact on the business of Heartland. The effect of these statutes, regulations and regulatory policies may be significant, and cannot be predicted with a high degree of certainty.

Federal and state laws and regulations generally applicable to financial institutions regulate, among other things, the scope of business, the kinds and amounts of investments, reserve requirements, capital levels relative to operations, the nature and amount of collateral for loans, the establishment of branches, mergers and consolidations and the payment of dividends. This system of supervision and regulation establishes a comprehensive framework for the respective operations of Heartland and its subsidiaries and is intended primarily for the protection of the FDIC-insured deposits and depositors of the Bank Subsidiaries, rather than shareholders.

The following is a summary of material elements of the regulatory framework that applies to Heartland and its subsidiaries.  It does not describe all of the statutes, regulations and regulatory policies that apply, nor does it restate all of the requirements of those that are described. As such, the following is qualified in its entirety by reference to applicable law.  Any change in statutes, regulations or regulatory policies may have a material effect on the business of Heartland and its subsidiaries.

Heartland

General
Heartland, as the sole shareholder of Dubuque Bank and Trust Company, New Mexico Bank & Trust, Rocky Mountain Bank, Wisconsin Community Bank, Galena State Bank & Trust Co., Riverside Community Bank, First Community Bank and Arizona Bank & Trust and the controlling shareholder of Summit Bank & Trust and Minnesota Bank & Trust, is a bank holding company. As a bank holding company, Heartland is registered with, and is subject to regulation by, the Federal Reserve under the BHCA. In accordance with Federal Reserve policy, Heartland is expected to act as a source of financial strength to the Bank Subsidiaries and to commit resources to support the Bank Subsidiaries in circumstances where Heartland might not otherwise do so. Under the BHCA, Heartland is subject to periodic examination by the Federal Reserve. Heartland is also required to file with the Federal Reserve periodic reports of Heartland’s operations and such additional information regarding Heartland and its subsidiaries as the Federal Reserve may require.

Acquisitions, Activities and Change in Control
The primary purpose of a bank holding company is to control and manage banks. The BHCA generally requires the prior approval of the Federal Reserve for any merger involving a bank holding company or any acquisition by a bank holding company of another bank or bank holding company. Subject to certain conditions (including certain deposit concentration limits established by the BHCA), the Federal Reserve may allow a bank holding company to acquire banks located in any state of the United States. In approving interstate acquisitions, the Federal Reserve is required to give effect to applicable state law limitations on the aggregate amount of deposits that may be held by the acquiring bank holding company and its insured depository institution affiliates in the state in which the target bank is located (provided that those limits do not discriminate against out-of-state depository institutions or their holding companies) and state laws that require that the target bank have been in existence for a minimum period of time (not to exceed five years) before being acquired by an out-of-state bank holding company.

The BHCA generally prohibits Heartland from acquiring direct or indirect ownership or control of more than 5% of the voting shares of any company that is not a bank and from engaging in any business other than that of banking, managing and controlling banks or, furnishing services to banks and their subsidiaries. This general prohibition is subject to a number of exceptions. The principal exception allows bank holding companies to engage in, and to own shares of companies engaged in, certain businesses found by the Federal Reserve to be “so closely related to banking ... as to be a proper incident thereto.” This authority would permit Heartland to engage in a variety of banking-related businesses, including the operation of a thrift, consumer finance, equipment leasing, the operation of a computer service bureau (including software development), and mortgage banking and brokerage. The BHCA generally does not place territorial restrictions on the domestic activities of non-bank subsidiaries of bank holding companies.

Additionally, bank holding companies that meet certain eligibility requirements prescribed by the BHCA and elect to operate as financial holding companies may engage in, or own shares in companies engaged in, a wider range of nonbanking activities, including securities and insurance underwriting and sales, merchant banking and any other activity that the Federal Reserve, in consultation with the Secretary of the Treasury, determines by regulation or order is financial in nature, incidental to any such financial activity or complementary to any such financial activity and does not pose a substantial risk to the safety or soundness of depository institutions or the financial system generally.  As of the date of this filing, Heartland has not applied for approval to operate as a financial holding company.

Federal law also prohibits any person or company from acquiring “control” of an FDIC-insured depository institution or its holding company without prior notice to the appropriate federal bank regulator. “Control” is conclusively presumed to exist upon the acquisition of 25% or more of the outstanding voting securities of a bank or bank holding company, but may arise under certain circumstances at 10% ownership.

Capital Requirements
Bank holding companies are required to maintain minimum levels of capital in accordance with Federal Reserve capital adequacy guidelines. If capital levels fall below the minimum required levels, a bank holding company, among other things, may be denied approval to acquire or establish additional banks or non-bank businesses. The Federal Reserve’s capital guidelines establish the following minimum regulatory capital requirements for bank holding companies: (i) a risk-based requirement expressed as a percentage of total assets weighted according to risk; and (ii) a leverage requirement expressed as a percentage of total assets.  The risk-based requirement consists of a minimum ratio of total capital to total risk-weighted assets of 8% and a minimum ratio of Tier 1 capital to total risk-weighted assets of 4%.  The leverage requirement consists of a minimum ratio of Tier 1 capital to total assets of 3% for the most highly rated companies, with a minimum requirement of 4% for all others.  For purposes of these capital standards, Tier 1 capital consists primarily of permanent stockholders’ equity less intangible assets (other than certain loan servicing rights and purchased credit card relationships). Total capital consists primarily of Tier 1 capital plus certain other debt and equity instruments that do not qualify as Tier 1 capital and a portion of Heartland’s allowance for loan and lease losses.

The risk-based and leverage standards described above are minimum requirements. Higher capital levels will be required if warranted by the particular circumstances or risk profiles of individual banking organizations. For example, the Federal Reserve’s capital guidelines contemplate that additional capital may be required to take adequate account of, among other things, interest rate risk, or the risks posed by concentrations of credit, nontraditional activities or securities trading activities.  Further, any banking organization experiencing or anticipating significant growth would be expected to maintain capital ratios, including tangible capital positions (i.e., Tier 1 capital less all intangible assets), well above the minimum levels.  As of December 31, 2009, Heartland had regulatory capital in excess of the Federal Reserve’s minimum requirements.

Treasury Regulation—the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 and the American Recovery and Reinvestment Tax Act of 2009
On October 3, 2008, in response to stresses experienced in the financial markets, the EESA was enacted.  Pursuant to its authority under EESA, the Treasury created the TARP Capital Purchase Program (the “CPP”) under which the Treasury Department has invested in the senior preferred stock of qualifying U.S. banks and savings associations or their holding companies. Under the CPP, qualifying financial institutions may issue senior preferred stock with a value equal to not less than 1% of risk-weighted assets and not more than the lesser of $25 billion or 3% of risk-weighted assets.

On December 19, 2008, Heartland issued and sold $81.7 million of its Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock (the “Senior Preferred Stock”) to the Treasury pursuant to the CPP.  The Senior Preferred Stock, which has terms that were set by the Treasury and that are relatively uniform among publicly held banks participating in the program:

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pays dividends to Treasury at a rate of 5% per year until the fifth anniversary of the investment and at 9% after that time;
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prohibits dividends on common stock unless all dividends have been paid on the Senior Preferred Stock;
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requires the consent of Treasury for any increase in the dividends paid on the common stock, or for any stock repurchases, until the third anniversary of the investment, unless the senior preferred has been previously redeemed in its entirety or unless the Treasury has transferred the senior preferred to third parties;
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has no voting rights, other than the right to vote as a class on the issuance of any preferred stock ranking senior, any change in its terms or any merger, exchange or similar transaction that would adversely affect its rights;
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has the right to elect two directors if dividends have not been paid for six quarterly periods; and
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is freely transferable and required Heartland to file a shelf registration statement covering the sale of the Senior Preferred, which Heartland completed in January, 2009.
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may be redeemed at any time with the approval of Heartland’s primary regulator (the FDIC).

Heartland, like all institutions participating in the CPP, also issued to Treasury an immediately exercisable 10-year warrant to purchase shares of common stock with an aggregate market price equal to 15% of the amount of senior preferred: a warrant to purchase 609,687 shares for Heartland (the “Warrant”). The Warrant is exercisable at a price of $20.10 per share (the average closing price of the common stock for the 20 trading days prior to the date of the Treasury’s approval).  Under the purchase agreement pursuant to which the Senior Preferred Stock and Warrant were acquired (the “Purchase Agreement”), Treasury is prohibited from exercising voting rights with respect to any shares of common stock acquired through exercise of the warrant and the shares of common stock underlying the warrant were included in the shelf registration statement filed by Heartland.

Prior to issuance of the Senior Preferred Stock, Heartland and its senior executive officers, like all other CPP participants, were required by the Purchase Agreement to modify all benefit plans and arrangements to comply with restrictions imposed by EESA.  At the time, these restriction provided that, so long as Treasury owns any debt or equity securities acquired pursuant to the Purchase Agreement, Heartland would be:

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prohibited from making any “Golden Parachute Payments” to a senior executive officer (payments for separation of the executive in excess of three times the average compensation of the executive for the five years prior to termination);
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required to have its compensation committee review with its senior risk officers the incentive compensation arrangements for senior executive officers to ensure that the arrangements did not encourage senior executive officers to take unnecessary and excessive risks that threaten the value of Heartland;
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required to “clawback” incentive compensation of senior executive officers to the extent based on materially inaccurate financial statements or materially inaccurate performance criteria; and
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by virtue of an amendment to Section 162(m)(5) of the Internal Revenue Code, required to eliminate the deductibility of taxable compensation payments that exceed $500,000 to an officer in any year.

These restrictions were substantially expanded when on February 17, 2009, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (“ARRA”), more commonly know as the Economic Stimulus Act, was enacted. Title VII of ARRA, and regulations issued by Treasury under ARRA in June 2009, placed additional restrictions on the compensation paid to executive officers and highly paid employees by financial institutions, such as Heartland, that have received CPP funds. Among other things, these additional restrictions will require that, while the Senior Preferred Stock is outstanding, Heartland will be:

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prohibited from paying incentive compensation, except restricted stock that vests after the CPP funds are repaid, to its five most highly compensated employees;
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required to have its compensation committee review with its senior risk officers at least every six months (i) the incentive compensation arrangements for senior executive officers to ensure that the arrangements do not encourage senior executive officers to take unnecessary and excessive risks, (ii) all employee compensation plans to limit unnecessary risks those plans impose, and (iii) all employee plans to eliminate features that would encourage manipulation of reported earnings, and to have the compensation committee certify annually as to the completion of that review;
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required to extend the clawback provisions to its 20 most highly compensated employees;
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prohibited from making any severance payment whatsoever, including what has traditionally been referred to as a parachute payment, to the executives named in the summary compensation table of its proxy statement or any of the five next most highly compensated employees;
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required to annually present its compensation policies to a non-binding vote by stockholders--a say-on-pay vote;
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adopt policies regarding excessive and luxury expenditures; and
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required to have its CEO and CFO annually certify that Heartland has complied with these requirements as part of its annual filing with the SEC (this Form 10-K).

Except with respect to the prohibition on incentive compensation to its five most highly compensated employees, Heartland does not believe these provisions have any material impact on it.

Dividend Payments
Heartland’s ability to pay dividends to its shareholders may be affected by both general corporate law considerations, the limitations imposed under the CPP described above and policies of the Federal Reserve applicable to bank holding companies.  As a Delaware corporation, Heartland is subject to the limitations of the Delaware General Corporation Law (the “DGCL”), which allows Heartland to pay dividends only out of its surplus (as defined and computed in accordance with the provisions of the DGCL) or if Heartland has no such surplus, out of its net profits for the fiscal year in which the dividend is declared and/or the preceding fiscal year. In addition, policies of the Federal Reserve caution that a bank holding company should not pay cash dividends unless its net income available to common shareholders over the past year has been sufficient to fully fund the dividends and the prospective rate of earnings retention appears consistent with its capital needs, asset quality, and overall financial condition. The Federal Reserve also possesses enforcement powers over bank holding companies and their non-bank subsidiaries to prevent or remedy actions that represent unsafe or unsound practices or violations of applicable statutes and regulations. Among these powers is the ability to proscribe the payment of dividends by banks and bank holding companies. Heartland is prohibited from paying any dividends on or repurchasing shares of common stock unless all dividends on the Senior Preferred Stock have been paid, and under the Purchase Agreement, Heartland is prohibited until after December 19, 2011, from paying quarterly dividends, without the Treasury’s consent, in excess of $0.10 per share as long as the Senior Preferred Stock is outstanding.

Federal Securities Regulation
Heartland’s common stock is registered with the SEC under Section 12(b) of the Exchange Act.  Consequently, Heartland is subject to the information, proxy solicitation, insider trading and other restrictions and requirements of the SEC under the Exchange Act.

The Bank Subsidiaries

General
All of the Bank Subsidiaries are state chartered, non-member banks, which means that they are all formed under state law and are not members of the Federal Reserve System. As such, each bank is subject to direct regulation by the banking authorities in the State in which it was chartered, as well as by the FDIC as its primary federal regulator.

Dubuque Bank and Trust Company and First Community Bank are Iowa-chartered banks.  As Iowa-chartered banks, Dubuque Bank and Trust Company and First Community Bank are subject to the examination, supervision, reporting and enforcement requirements of the Iowa Superintendent, the chartering authority for Iowa banks.

Galena State Bank & Trust Co. and Riverside Community Bank are Illinois-chartered banks.  As Illinois-chartered banks, Galena State Bank & Trust Co. and Riverside Community Bank are subject to the examination, supervision, reporting and enforcement requirements of the Illinois DFPR, the chartering authority for Illinois banks.

New Mexico Bank & Trust is a New Mexico-chartered bank.  As a New Mexico-chartered bank, New Mexico Bank & Trust is subject to the examination, supervision, reporting and enforcement requirements of the New Mexico FID, the chartering authority for New Mexico banks.

Rocky Mountain Bank is a Montana-chartered bank. As a Montana-chartered bank, Rocky Mountain Bank is subject to the examination, supervision, reporting and enforcement requirements of the Montana Division, the chartering authority for Montana banks.

Wisconsin Community Bank is a Wisconsin-chartered bank.  As a Wisconsin-chartered bank, Wisconsin Community Bank is subject to the examination, supervision, reporting and enforcement requirements of the Wisconsin DFI, the chartering authority for Wisconsin banks.

Summit Bank & Trust is a Colorado-chartered bank.  As a Colorado-chartered bank, Summit Bank & Trust is subject to the examination, supervision, reporting and enforcement requirements of the Colorado Division, the chartering authority for Colorado banks.

Arizona Bank & Trust is an Arizona-chartered bank.  As an Arizona-chartered bank, Arizona Bank & Trust is subject to the examination, supervision, reporting and enforcement requirements of the Arizona Department, the chartering authority for Arizona banks.

Minnesota Bank & Trust is a Minnesota-chartered bank.  As a Minnesota-chartered bank, Minnesota Bank & Trust is subject to the examination, supervision, reporting and enforcement requirements of the Minnesota Division, the chartering authority for Minnesota banks.

Deposit Insurance
The FDIC is an independent federal agency that insures the deposits, up to prescribed statutory limits, of federally insured banks and savings institutions and safeguards the safety and soundness of the commercial banking and thrift industries. Until the adoption of EESA in October 2008, the maximum deposit insurance coverage was $100,000 per beneficiary ($250,000 per participant for retirement plans) and was indexed for inflation commencing in 2011.  Under EESA, the maximum deposit insurance coverage has been temporarily increased from $100,000 to $250,000 until December 31, 2013.

As FDIC-insured institutions, the Bank Subsidiaries are required to pay deposit insurance premium assessments to the FDIC. The FDIC has adopted a risk-based assessment system under which FDIC-insured depository institutions pay insurance premiums at rates based on their risk classification. An institution’s risk classification is assigned based on its capital levels and the level of supervisory concern the institution poses to the regulators.

The aggregate level of assessments levied by the FDIC on depositary institutions is dependent upon the reserve ratio of insurance funds available to the FDIC. Due to bank failures during 2008, the reserve ratio fell below the statutory minimum and the FDIC adopted a plan to restore the ratio to its 1.15% minimum, originally over a period of five years, but more recently extended to seven years. On February 27, 2009, the FDIC announced that it was increasing the quarterly deposit insurance assessment for most insured institutions to a range of 12 to 16 basis points (0.12% to 0.16%) per quarter for the second quarter of 2009. The FDIC also imposed a special emergency assessment of an additional 5 basis points on each FDIC-insured depository institution's assets, minus its Tier 1 capital, as of June 30, 2009, which was due and paid by Heartland on September 30, 2009. On November 12, 2009, the FDIC adopted a final rule requiring prepayment of 13 quarters of each institution’s estimated FDIC premiums for the fourth quarter of 2009 and all of 2010, 2011 and 2012. Heartland prepaid the required $19.0 million in December 2009. The expense of this prepayment will be recognized during the next three years based on the calculation of actual quarterly assessments. Heartland expects that actual FDIC assessments will remain higher as bank failures work through the economy and may be further increased if the reserve ratio is further impaired. The reserve ratio calculated by the FDIC in effect at September 30, 2009 was -0.16%.

The FDIC established a Temporary Liquidity Guarantee Program on October 23, 2008 under which the FDIC fully guaranteed all non-interest-bearing transaction accounts and all senior unsecured debt of insured depository institutions or their qualified holding companies issued between October 14, 2008 and October 31, 2009. Heartland did not opt out of the program and as such, was assessed ten basis points for transaction account balances in excess of $250,000 and, since it did not issue any senior unsecured debt during the designated time period, was not assessed the applicable rate of 75 basis points on the amount of debt issued. The guarantee of non-interest-bearing transaction accounts has been extended to June 30, 2010, and participating institutions had until November 2, 2009, to opt out of the extension. Heartland did not opt out. After June 30, 2010, the FDIC insurance limit for all deposit accounts will be $250,000. The total assessments paid by Heartland during 2009 for participation in the Temporary Liquidity Guarantee Program totaled $105,000.

In addition, all institutions with deposits insured by the FDIC are required to pay assessments to fund interest payments on bonds issued by the Financing Corporation, an agency of the Federal government established to recapitalize the predecessor to the Savings Association Insurance Fund. During the fourth quarter of 2009, the assessment rate was 0.0102% of insured deposits. These assessments will continue until the Financing Corporation bonds mature in 2019.

Supervisory Assessments
Each of the Bank Subsidiaries is required to pay supervisory assessments to its respective state banking regulator to fund the operations of that agency.  In general, the amount of the assessment is calculated on the basis of each institution’s total assets.  During 2009, the Bank Subsidiaries paid supervisory assessments totaling $483,000.

Capital Requirements
Under federal regulations, the Bank Subsidiaries are subject to the following minimum capital standards: (i) a leverage requirement consisting of a minimum ratio of Tier 1 capital to total assets of 3% for the most highly-rated banks with a minimum requirement of at least 4% for all others; and (ii) a risk-based capital requirement consisting of a minimum ratio of total capital to total risk-weighted assets of 8% and a minimum ratio of Tier 1 capital to total risk-weighted assets of 4%. In general, the components of Tier 1 capital and total capital are the same as those for bank holding companies discussed above.

The capital requirements described above are minimum requirements.  Higher capital levels will be required if warranted by the particular circumstances or risk profiles of individual institutions.  For example, federal regulations provide that additional capital may be required to take adequate account of, among other things, interest rate risk or the risks posed by concentrations of credit, nontraditional activities or securities trading activities. The FDIC’s approval of deposit insurance for Minnesota Bank & Trust was conditioned upon Minnesota Bank & Trust maintaining higher Tier 1 capital to assets ratios for the first three years of their operations (through April 2012). Further, under agreements with the FDIC and state banking agencies described below under “Safety and Soundness Standards,” Summit Bank & Trust is required to maintain a ratio of Tier 1 Capital to total assets of 8% and Rocky Mountain Bank is required to maintain both a ratio of Tier 1 capital to total assets of 8% and a ratio of total risk-based capital to risk-weighted assets of 12%.

Further, federal law and regulations provide various incentives for financial institutions to maintain regulatory capital at levels in excess of minimum regulatory requirements. For example, a financial institution that is “well-capitalized” may qualify for exemptions from prior notice or application requirements otherwise applicable to certain types of activities and may qualify for expedited processing of other required notices or applications. Additionally, one of the criteria that determines a bank holding company’s eligibility to operate as a financial holding company is a requirement that all of its financial institution subsidiaries be “well-capitalized.” Under federal regulations, in order to be “well-capitalized” a financial institution must maintain a ratio of total capital to total risk-weighted assets of 10% or greater, a ratio of Tier 1 capital to total risk-weighted assets of 6% or greater and a ratio of Tier 1 capital to total assets of 5% or greater.

Federal law also provides the federal banking regulators with broad power to take prompt corrective action to resolve the problems of undercapitalized institutions.  The extent of the regulators’ powers depends on whether the institution in question is “adequately capitalized,” “undercapitalized,” “significantly undercapitalized” or “critically undercapitalized,” in each case as defined by regulation.  Depending upon the capital category to which an institution is assigned, the regulators’ corrective powers include: (i) requiring the institution to submit a capital restoration plan; (ii) limiting the institution’s asset growth and restricting its activities; (iii) requiring the institution to issue additional capital stock (including additional voting stock) or to be acquired; (iv) restricting transactions between the institution and its affiliates; (v) restricting the interest rate the institution may pay on deposits; (vi) ordering a new election of directors of the institution; (vii) requiring that senior executive officers or directors be dismissed; (viii) prohibiting the institution from accepting deposits from correspondent banks; (ix) requiring the institution to divest certain subsidiaries; (x) prohibiting the payment of principal or interest on subordinated debt; and (xi) ultimately, appointing a receiver for the institution.

As of December 31, 2009: (i) none of the Bank Subsidiaries was subject to a directive from its primary federal regulator to increase its capital; (ii) each of the Bank Subsidiaries exceeded its minimum regulatory capital requirements under applicable capital adequacy guidelines; (iii) each of the Bank Subsidiaries was “well-capitalized,” as defined by applicable regulations; and (iv) each of the Bank Subsidiaries subject to a directive to maintain capital higher than the regulatory capital requirements, as discussed below under “Safety and Soundness Standards,” complied with the directive.

Liability of Commonly Controlled Institutions
Under federal law, institutions insured by the FDIC may be liable for any loss incurred by, or reasonably expected to be incurred by, the FDIC in connection with the default of commonly controlled FDIC-insured depository institutions or any assistance provided by the FDIC to commonly controlled FDIC-insured depository institutions in danger of default. Because Heartland controls each of the Bank Subsidiaries, the Bank Subsidiaries are commonly controlled for purposes of these provisions of federal law.

Dividend Payments
The primary source of funds for Heartland is dividends from the Bank Subsidiaries.  In general, the Bank Subsidiaries may only pay dividends either out of their historical net income after any required transfers to surplus or reserves have been made or out of their retained earnings.
 
The payment of dividends by any financial institution is affected by the requirement to maintain adequate capital pursuant to applicable capital adequacy guidelines and regulations, and a financial institution generally is prohibited from paying any dividends if, following payment thereof, the institution would be undercapitalized.  As described above, each of the Bank Subsidiaries exceeded its minimum capital requirements under applicable guidelines as of December 31, 2009. Minnesota Bank & Trust is subject to the FDIC’s further prohibition on the payment of dividends during the first three years of a bank’s operations, allowing cash dividends to be paid only from net operating income, and prohibiting the payment of dividends until an appropriate allowance for loan and lease losses has been established and overall capital is adequate. Pursuant to agreements with the FDIC and the state banking agencies described below under “Safety and Soundness Standards,” neither Summit Bank & Trust nor Rocky Mountain Bank may pay any dividends without prior notice to, and consent from, the FDIC and the state banking regulator. Further, First Community Bank may not pay dividends in an amount that would reduce its capital below the amount required for the liquidation account established in connection with First Community Bank’s conversion from the mutual to the stock form of ownership in 1991.

As of December 31, 2009, approximately $94.5 million was available to be paid as dividends by the Bank Subsidiaries. Notwithstanding the availability of funds for dividends, however, the FDIC may prohibit the payment of any dividends by the Bank Subsidiaries.

Insider Transactions
The Bank Subsidiaries are subject to certain restrictions imposed by federal law on extensions of credit to Heartland and its subsidiaries, on investments in the stock or other securities of Heartland and its subsidiaries and the acceptance of the stock or other securities of Heartland or its subsidiaries as collateral for loans made by the Bank Subsidiaries.  Certain limitations and reporting requirements are also placed on extensions of credit by each of the Bank Subsidiaries to its directors and officers, to directors and officers of Heartland and its subsidiaries, to principal shareholders of Heartland and to “related interests” of such directors, officers and principal shareholders.  In addition, federal law and regulations may affect the terms upon which any person who is a director or officer of Heartland or any of its subsidiaries or a principal shareholder of Heartland may obtain credit from banks with which the Bank Subsidiaries maintain correspondent relationships. Although Heartland believes its subsidiaries comply with these requirements, one of its Bank Subsidiaries was cited in 2008 and 2009 for a deficiency in insider transaction compliance in connection with the joint examination described in “Safety and Soundness Standards” below.

Safety and Soundness Standards
The federal banking agencies have adopted guidelines that establish operational and managerial standards to promote the safety and soundness of federally insured depository institutions. The guidelines set forth standards for internal controls, information systems, internal audit systems, loan documentation, credit underwriting, interest rate exposure, asset growth, compensation, fees and benefits, asset quality and earnings. In general, the safety and soundness guidelines prescribe the goals to be achieved in each area, and each institution is responsible for establishing its own procedures to achieve those goals.  If an institution fails to comply with any of the standards set forth in the guidelines, the institution’s primary federal regulator may require the institution to submit a plan for achieving and maintaining compliance. If an institution fails to submit an acceptable compliance plan, or fails in any material respect to implement a compliance plan that has been accepted by its primary federal regulator, the regulator is required to issue an order directing the institution to cure the deficiency. Until the deficiency cited in the regulator’s order is cured, the regulator may restrict the institution’s rate of growth, require the institution to increase its capital, restrict the rates the institution pays on deposits or require the institution to take any action the regulator deems appropriate under the circumstances. Noncompliance with the standards established by the safety and soundness guidelines may also constitute grounds for other enforcement action by the federal banking regulators, including cease and desist orders and civil money penalty assessments.

During their regular scheduled joint examinations of the Bank Subsidiaries, the FDIC and state banking commissioners cited three of the Bank Subsidiaries for certain deficiencies, including asset quality. In January of 2009, the boards of directors of Summit Bank & Trust and Arizona Bank & Trust, and in the fall of 2009, the board of directors of Rocky Mountain Bank, entered into informal agreements with the FDIC and their respective state banking commissioners, agreeing to submit plans for improvement in the risks associated with any classified asset with a balance of more than $250,000, agreeing not to extend or renew credit to borrowers under loans that are classified, agreeing to review and ensure the sufficiency of the allowance for loan and lease losses and agreeing to submit a business plan outlining the plans to accomplish these measures as well as periodic progress reports against that plan. As noted above, two of these Bank Subsidiaries also agreed to maintain higher levels of regulatory capital and to refrain from paying dividends without regulatory approval. Each of these Bank Subsidiaries remains well capitalized and has complied with its agreement with its regulators.

Branching Authority
Each of the Bank Subsidiaries has the authority, pursuant to the laws under which it is chartered, to establish branches anywhere in the state in which its main office is located, subject to the receipt of all required regulatory approvals.
Federal law permits state and national banks to merge with banks in other states subject to: (i) regulatory approval; (ii) federal and state deposit concentration limits; and (iii) state law limitations requiring the merging bank to have been in existence for a minimum period of time (not to exceed five years) prior to the merger.  The establishment of new interstate branches or the acquisition of individual branches of a bank in another state (rather than the acquisition of an out-of-state bank in its entirety) is permitted only in those states the laws of which expressly authorize such expansion.

State Bank Investments and Activities
Each of the Bank Subsidiaries generally is permitted to make investments and engage in activities directly or through subsidiaries as authorized by the laws of the state under which it is chartered.  However, under federal law and FDIC regulations, FDIC-insured state banks are prohibited, subject to certain exceptions, from making or retaining equity investments of a type, or in an amount, that are not permissible for a national bank.  Federal law and FDIC regulations also prohibit FDIC-insured state banks and their subsidiaries, subject to certain exceptions, from engaging as principal in any activity that is not permitted for a national bank unless the bank meets, and continues to meet, its minimum regulatory capital requirements and the FDIC determines the activity would not pose a significant risk to the deposit insurance fund of which the bank is a member.  These restrictions have not had, and are not currently expected to have, a material impact on the operations of the Bank Subsidiaries.

Federal Reserve
Federal Reserve regulations, as presently in effect, require depository institutions to maintain non-interest earning reserves against their transaction accounts (primarily NOW and regular checking accounts), as follows: (i) for transaction accounts aggregating $10.7 million or less, there is no reserve requirement; (ii) for transaction accounts over $10.7 million and up to $55.2 million, the reserve requirement is 3% of total transaction accounts; and (iii) for transaction accounts aggregating in excess of $55.2  million, the reserve requirement is $1.335 million plus 10% of the aggregate amount of total transaction accounts in excess of $55.2 million. These reserve requirements are subject to annual adjustment by the Federal Reserve. The Bank Subsidiaries are in compliance with the foregoing requirements.

G.      GOVERNMENTAL MONETARY POLICY AND ECONOMIC CONDITIONS

Heartland’s earnings are affected by the policies of regulatory authorities, including the Federal Reserve. The Federal Reserve’s monetary policies have significantly affected the operating results of commercial banks in the past and are expected to continue doing so in the future. Changing economic and money market conditions prompted by the actions of monetary and fiscal authorities may cause changes in interest rates, credit availability, and deposit levels that are beyond Heartland’s control. Future policies of the Federal Reserve and other authorities cannot be predicted, nor can their effect on future earnings.

ITEM 1A.

RISK FACTORS

In addition to the other information in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, stockholders or prospective investors should carefully consider the following risk factors that may adversely affect our business, financial results or stock price. Additional risks that we currently do not know about or currently view as immaterial may also impair our business or adversely impact our financial results or stock price.

Our business and financial results are significantly affected by general business and economic conditions.

Our business activities and earnings are affected by general business conditions in the United States and particularly in the states in which our subsidiary banks operate. The United States economy has undergone a dramatic downturn during the past two years, with negative effects on the business, financial condition and results of operations of financial institutions. Dramatic declines in the housing market, with falling home prices and increasing foreclosures and unemployment, have negatively impacted the credit performance of real estate related loans and resulted in significant write-downs of asset values by financial institutions, including Heartland. Further erosion of consumer confidence levels could cause renewed increases in delinquencies and default rates, which may impact our charge-offs and provision for credit losses. Continuing economic deterioration that affects household and/or corporate incomes could also result in reduced demand for credit or fee-based products and services. In addition, changes in securities market conditions and monetary fluctuations could adversely affect the availability and terms of funding necessary to meet our liquidity needs. A worsening of these conditions would likely exacerbate the adverse effects of these difficult market conditions on Heartland and others in the financial institutions industry.

Additional legislation and rulemaking could affect us adversely.

The programs established under the EESA and TARP, as well as restrictions contained in the rules implementing or related to them under ARRA, could adversely affect our operations. For example, the restrictions contained in ARRA on our compensation programs could make it more difficult for us to attract and retain management. Requirements for dividends at the holding company level and restrictions on dividends paid by the Bank Subsidiaries could restrict our ability to fund expansion, and further restrictions imposed by regulation because of our participation in the TARP CPP program could place us at a competitive disadvantage relative to financial institutions that did not receive CPP funds. We face increased regulation of our business and increased costs associated with these programs. Similarly, programs established by the FDIC may have an adverse effect on us, due to the costs of participation.
 
Other changes in the laws, regulations and policies governing financial services companies could alter our business environment and adversely affect operations.

The Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System regulates the supply of money and credit in the United States. Its fiscal and monetary policies determine, in a large part, our cost of funds for lending and investing and the return that can be earned on those loans and investments, both of which affect our net interest margin. Federal Reserve Board policies can also materially affect the value of financial instruments that we hold, such as debt securities and mortgage servicing rights. Recent changes in the laws and regulations that apply to us have been significant. Further dramatic changes in statutes, regulations or policies could affect us in substantial and unpredictable ways, including limiting the types of financial services and products that we offer and/or increasing the ability of non-banks to offer competing financial services and products. We cannot predict whether any of this potential legislation will be enacted, and if enacted, the effect that it or any regulations would have on our financial condition or results of operations.
 
The soundness of other financial institutions could adversely affect our liquidity and operations.

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

Our business is concentrated in and dependent upon the continued growth and welfare of the various markets that we serve.

We operate over a wide area, including markets in Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin, Arizona, New Mexico, Montana, Colorado and Minnesota and our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows are subject to changes in the economic conditions in those areas. Our success depends upon the business activity, population, income levels, deposits and real estate activity in those areas. Although our customers’ business and financial interests may extend well beyond our market areas, adverse economic conditions that affect our specific market area could reduce our growth rate, affect the ability of our customers to repay their loans to us and generally affect our financial condition and results of operations. For example, although all of our markets have been impacted to some extent by the economic downturn, the markets in Arizona, Colorado and Montana have been more severely affected than most of the markets in the Midwest, creating correspondingly greater impact on our banks that serve those areas.

We may experience difficulties in managing our growth and our growth strategy involves risks that may negatively impact our net income.

As part of our general growth strategy, we may acquire banks and related businesses that we believe provide a strategic and geographic fit with our business. We cannot predict the number, size or timing of acquisitions. To the extent that we grow through acquisitions, we cannot assure you that we will be able to adequately and profitably manage this growth. Acquiring other banks and businesses will involve risks commonly associated with acquisitions, including:

*
potential exposure to unknown or contingent liabilities of banks and businesses we acquire;
*
exposure to potential asset quality issues of the acquired bank or related business;
*
difficulty and expense of integrating the operations and personnel of banks and businesses we acquire;
*
potential disruption to our business;
*
potential restrictions on our business resulting from the regulatory approval process;
*
potential diversion of our management’s time and attention; and
*
the possible loss of key employees and customers of the banks and businesses we acquire.

In addition to acquisitions, we may expand into additional communities or attempt to strengthen our position in our current markets by undertaking additional de novo bank formations or branch openings. Based on our experience, we believe that it generally takes up to three years for new banking facilities to first achieve operational profitability, due to the impact of organization and overhead expenses and the start-up phase of generating loans and deposits. To the extent that we undertake additional branching and de novo bank and business formations, we are likely to continue to experience the effects of higher operating expenses relative to operating income from the new operations, which may have an adverse effect on our levels of reported net income, return on average equity and return on average assets.

Our market and growth strategy relies heavily on our management team, and the unexpected loss of key managers may adversely affect our operations.

Much of our success to date has been influenced strongly by our ability to attract and to retain senior management experienced in banking and financial services and familiar with the communities in our different market areas. Because our service areas are spread over such a wide geographical area, our management headquartered in Dubuque, Iowa, is dependent on the effective leadership and capabilities of the management in our local markets for the continued success of Heartland. Our ability to retain executive officers, the current management teams and loan officers of our operating subsidiaries will continue to be important to the successful implementation of our strategy. It is also critical, as we grow, to be able to attract and retain qualified additional management and loan officers with the appropriate level of experience and knowledge about our market area to implement our community-based operating strategy. The unexpected loss of services of any key management personnel, or the inability to recruit and retain qualified personnel in the future, could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

We face intense competition in all phases of our business.

The banking and financial services business in our markets is highly competitive and is currently undergoing significant change. Our competitors include large regional banks, local community banks, thrifts, securities and brokerage companies, mortgage companies, insurance companies, finance companies, money market mutual funds, credit unions and other non-bank financial service providers, and increasingly these competitors provide integrated financial services over a broad geographic area. Some of our competitors may also have access to governmental programs that impact their position in the marketplace favorably. Increased competition in our markets may result in a decrease in the amounts of our loans and deposits, reduced spreads between loan rates and deposit rates or loan terms that are more favorable to the borrower. Any of these results could have a material adverse effect on our ability to grow and remain profitable.

Interest rates and other conditions impact our results of operations.

Our profitability is in part a function of the spread between the interest rates earned on investments and loans and the interest rates paid on deposits and other interest-bearing liabilities. Like most banking institutions, our net interest spread and margin will be affected by general economic conditions and other factors, including fiscal and monetary policies of the federal government, that influence market interest rates and our ability to respond to changes in such rates. At any given time, our assets and liabilities will be such that they are affected differently by a given change in interest rates. As a result, an increase or decrease in rates, the length of loan terms or the mix of adjustable and fixed rate loans in our portfolio could have a positive or negative effect on our net income, capital and liquidity. We measure interest rate risk under various rate scenarios and using specific criteria and assumptions. A summary of this process, along with the results of our net interest income simulations, is presented at “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk” included under Item 7A of Part II of this Form 10-K. Although we believe our current level of interest rate sensitivity is reasonable and effectively managed, significant fluctuations in interest rates may have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

We must effectively manage our credit risk.

There are risks inherent in making any loan, including risks inherent in dealing with individual borrowers, risks of nonpayment, risks resulting from uncertainties as to the future value of collateral and risks resulting from changes in economic and industry conditions. We attempt to minimize our credit risk through prudent loan application approval procedures, careful monitoring of the concentration of our loans within specific industries and periodic independent reviews of outstanding loans by our credit review department. However, changes in the economy can cause the assumptions that we made at origination to change and can cause borrowers to be unable to make payments on their loans, and significant changes in collateral values such as those that occurred in late 2008 and 2009 can cause us to not be able to collect the full value of loans we make. We cannot assure you that such approval and monitoring procedures will reduce these credit risks.

Commercial loans make up a significant portion of our loan portfolio.

Commercial loans were $1.67 billion (including $1.08 billion of commercial real estate loans), or approximately 71% of our total loan portfolio as of December 31, 2009. Our commercial loans are primarily made based on the identified cash flow of the borrower and secondarily on the underlying collateral provided by the borrower. Most often, this collateral is accounts receivable, inventory, machinery or real estate. In the case of loans secured by accounts receivable, the availability of funds for the repayment of these loans may be substantially dependent on the ability of the borrower to collect amounts due from its customers. The other types of collateral securing these loans may depreciate over time, may be difficult to appraise and may fluctuate in value based on the success of the business.

Our loan portfolio has a large concentration of commercial real estate loans, which involve risks specific to real estate value.

Commercial real estate lending is a large portion of our commercial loan portfolio. These loans were $1.08 billion, or approximately 64%, of our total commercial loan portfolio as of December 31, 2009. The market value of real estate can fluctuate significantly in a short period of time as a result of market conditions in the geographic area in which the real estate is located. More than 60% of these loans are owner occupied, which reduces the risk typically associated with commercial real estate lending since the primary source of repayment comes from the successful operation of a business instead of the cash flow generated from the rental of the property. Adverse developments affecting real estate values in a few of our markets have adversely affected some of our commercial real estate loans, and further developments could increase the credit risk associated with our loan portfolio. Non-owner occupied commercial real estate loans typically are dependent, in large part, on sufficient income from the properties securing the loans to cover operating expenses and debt service. A weaker economy has an impact on the absorption period associated with lot and land development loans. When the source of repayment is reliant on the successful and timely sale of lots or land held for resale, a default on these loans becomes a greater risk. Economic events or governmental regulations outside of the control of the borrower or lender could negatively impact the future cash flow and market values of the affected properties.

If the problems that have occurred in the commercial real estate markets continue, particularly within our Western market areas, the value of collateral securing our commercial real estate loans may decline and the demand for our commercial real estate loans could decrease. If the loans that are collateralized by real estate become troubled during a time when market conditions are declining or have declined, then we may not be able to realize the collateral value that we anticipated at the time of originating the loan, which could cause us to increase our provision for loan losses and adversely affect our operating results and financial condition. Until the recent economic crisis, particularly in our Western markets in Arizona, Colorado and Montana, we generally had not experienced a downturn in credit performance by our commercial real estate loan customers, but in light of the uncertainty that exists in the economy and credit markets nationally, there can be no guarantee that we will not continue to experience deterioration in such performance.

Our commercial real estate loans also include commercial construction loans, including land acquisition and development, which involve additional risks because funds are advanced based upon estimates of costs and the estimated value of the completed project. Because of the uncertainties inherent in estimating construction costs, as well as the market value of the completed project and the effects of governmental regulation on real property, it is relatively difficult to evaluate accurately the total funds required to complete a project and the related loan-to-value ratio. As a result, commercial construction loans often involve the disbursement of substantial funds with repayment dependent, in part, on the success of the ultimate project and the ability of the borrower to sell or lease the property, rather than the ability of the borrower or guarantor to repay principal and interest. If our appraisal of the value of the completed project proves to be overstated, we may have inadequate security for the repayment of the loan upon completion of construction of the project. Additionally, with the ongoing economic environment and the correction in housing prices that is occurring in many of our market areas, a decrease in demand for the properties constructed by home builders and developers could result in higher delinquencies and greater charge-offs in future periods on loans made to such borrowers.

Our one- to four-family residential mortgage loans may result in lower yields and profitability.

One- to four-family residential mortgage loans comprised $175.1 million, or 7%, of our loan and lease portfolio at December 31, 2009, and are secured primarily by properties located in the Midwest. These loans generally result in lower yields and lower profitability for us than other loans in Heartland’s portfolio and are generally made on the basis of the borrower’s ability to make repayments from his or her employment and the value of the property securing the loan. The effects of ongoing mortgage market challenges, combined with the ongoing correction in residential real estate market prices and reduced levels of home sales, may result in a continued decrease in mortgage loan volume and increased charge-offs if we are not able to realize the amount of security that we anticipated at the time of originating the loan.
 
Our consumer loans generally have a higher degree of risk of default than our other loans.

At December 31, 2009, consumer loans totaled $231.7 million, or 10%, of our total loan and lease portfolio. Consumer loans typically have shorter terms and lower balances with higher yields as compared to one- to four-family residential loans, but generally carry higher risks of default. Consumer loan collections are dependent on the borrower’s continuing financial stability, and thus are more likely to be affected by adverse personal circumstances. Furthermore, the application of various federal and state laws, including bankruptcy and insolvency laws, may limit the amount that can be recovered on these loans. Citizens Finance loans, net of unearned, totaled $46.4 million at December 31, 2009, or 20% of Heartland’s total consumer loan portfolio, net of unearned.

Our agricultural loans may involve a greater degree of risk than other loans, and the ability of the borrower to repay may be affected by many factors outside of the borrower’s control.

At December 31, 2009, agricultural real estate loans totaled $197.9  million, or 8%, of our total loan and lease portfolio. Payments on agricultural real estate loans are dependent on the profitable operation or management of the farm property securing the loan. The success of the farm may be affected by many factors outside the control of the borrower, including adverse weather conditions that prevent the planting of a crop or limit crop yields (such as hail, drought and floods), loss of livestock due to disease or other factors, declines in market prices for agricultural products (both domestically and internationally) and the impact of government regulations (including changes in price supports, subsidies and environmental regulations). In addition, many farms are dependent on a limited number of key individuals whose injury or death may significantly affect the successful operation of the farm. If the cash flow from a farming operation is diminished, the borrower’s ability to repay the loan may be impaired. The primary crops in our market areas are corn, soybeans, peanuts and wheat. Accordingly, adverse circumstances affecting these crops could have an adverse effect on our agricultural real estate loan portfolio.

We also originate agricultural operating loans. At December 31, 2009, these loans totaled $58.9 million, or 3%, of our total loan and lease portfolio. As with agricultural real estate loans, the repayment of operating loans is dependent on the successful operation or management of the farm property. Likewise, agricultural operating loans involve a greater degree of risk than lending on residential properties, particularly in the case of loans that are unsecured or secured by rapidly depreciating assets such as farm equipment or assets such as livestock or crops. The primary livestock in our market areas include dairy cows, hogs and feeder cattle. In these cases, any repossessed collateral for a defaulted loan may not provide an adequate source of repayment of the outstanding loan balance as a result of the greater likelihood of damage, loss or depreciation.

Our allowance for loan losses may prove to be insufficient to absorb probable losses in our loan portfolio.

We established our allowance for loan losses in consultation with management of the Bank Subsidiaries and maintain it at a level considered adequate by management to absorb probable loan losses that are inherent in the portfolio. The amount of future loan losses is susceptible to changes in economic, operating and other conditions, including changes in interest rates, which may be beyond our control, and such losses may exceed current estimates. Throughout 2009, we were required to significantly increase our provision for loan losses because of the impact of the declining economy and real estate assets on some of our borrowers, resulting in charge-offs and an increased level of nonperforming assets. At December 31, 2009, our allowance for loan losses as a percentage of total loans was 1.80% and as a percentage of total nonperforming loans was approximately 54%. Although management believes that the allowance for loan losses is adequate to absorb losses on any existing loans that may become uncollectible, we cannot predict loan losses with certainty, and we cannot assure you that our allowance for loan losses will prove sufficient to cover actual loan losses in the future. Further significant provisions, or charge-offs against our allowance that result in provisions, could have a significant negative impact on our profitability. Loan losses in excess of our reserves may adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Impairment of investment securities, goodwill, other intangible assets, or deferred tax assets could require charges to earnings, which could result in a negative impact on our results of operations.

In assessing whether the impairment of investment securities is other-than-temporary, management considers the length of time and extent to which the fair value has been less than cost, the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer, and the intent and ability to retain our investment in the security for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in fair value in the near term. Under current accounting standards, goodwill is not amortized but, instead, is subject to impairment tests on at least an annual basis or more frequently if an event occurs or circumstances change that reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount. During 2009, a goodwill impairment charge of $12.7 million was recorded for Arizona Bank & Trust and Rocky Mountain Bank. In the event that we conclude that additional amounts of our goodwill may be impaired, a non-cash charge for the amount of such impairment would be recorded to earnings. Such a charge would have no impact on tangible capital. A decline in our stock price or occurrence of a triggering event following any of our quarterly earnings releases and prior to the filing of the periodic report for that period could, under certain circumstances, cause us to perform a goodwill impairment test and result in an impairment charge being recorded for that period which was not reflected in such earnings release. At December 31, 2009, we had goodwill of $27.5 million, representing approximately 9% of stockholders’ equity. In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, management considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. Assessing the need for, or the sufficiency of, a valuation allowance requires management to evaluate all available evidence, both negative and positive. Positive evidence necessary to overcome the negative evidence includes whether future taxable income in sufficient amounts and character within the carryback and carryforward periods is available under the tax law. When negative evidence (e.g., cumulative losses in recent years, history of operating losses or tax credit carryforwards expiring unused) exists, more positive evidence than negative evidence will be necessary. If the positive evidence is not sufficient to exceed the negative evidence, a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets is established. At December 31, 2009, net deferred tax assets are approximately $23.7 million. The impact of each of these impairment matters could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, and financial condition.

Changes in interest rates could reduce the value of our mortgage servicing rights.

A mortgage servicing right is the right to service a mortgage loan for a fee. We acquire mortgage servicing rights when we originate mortgage loans and keep the servicing rights after we sell the loans. We carry mortgage servicing rights at the lower of amortized cost or estimated fair value. Fair value is the present value of estimated future net servicing income, calculated based on a number of variables, including assumptions about the likelihood of prepayment by borrowers. Changes in interest rates can affect prepayment assumptions. When interest rates fall, borrowers are more likely to prepay their mortgage loans by refinancing them at a lower rate. As the likelihood of prepayment increases, the fair value of our mortgage servicing  rights can decrease. Each quarter we evaluate our mortgage servicing rights for impairment based on the difference between the carrying amount and fair value. If temporary impairment exists, we establish a valuation allowance through a charge to earnings for the amount the carrying amount exceeds fair value.

Our continued pace of growth may require us to raise additional capital in the future, but that capital may not be available when it is needed.

We are required by federal and state regulatory authorities to maintain adequate levels of capital to support our operations. We anticipate that our existing capital resources will satisfy our capital requirements for the foreseeable future. However, we may at some point need to raise additional capital to support continued growth, both internally and through acquisitions. Our ability to raise additional capital, if needed, will depend on conditions in the capital markets at that time, which are outside of our control, and on our financial performance. Accordingly, we cannot assure you of our ability to raise additional capital if needed on terms acceptable to us. If we cannot raise additional capital when needed, our ability to further expand our operations through internal growth and acquisitions could be materially impaired.

Government regulation can result in limitations on our operations.

We operate in a highly regulated environment and are subject to supervision and regulation by a number of governmental regulatory agencies, including the Federal Reserve, the FDIC, and the various state agencies where we have a bank presence. Regulations adopted by these agencies, which are generally intended to provide protection for depositors and customers rather than for the benefit of stockholders, govern a comprehensive range of matters relating to ownership and control of our shares, our acquisition of other companies and businesses, permissible activities for us to engage in, maintenance of adequate capital levels and other aspects of our operations. These bank regulators possess broad authority to prevent or remedy unsafe or unsound practices or violations of law. The laws and regulations applicable to the banking industry could change at any time and we cannot predict the effects of these changes on our business and profitability. Increased regulation could increase our cost of compliance and adversely affect profitability. For example, new legislation or regulation may limit the manner in which we may conduct our business, including our ability to offer new products, obtain financing, attract deposits, make loans and achieve satisfactory interest spreads.

The FDIC has increased, and may further increase, deposit insurance premiums, negatively impacting our profitability.
 
The FDIC charges insured financial institutions premiums to maintain the deposit insurance fund, and increases or decreases the amount of premiums it assesses based on reserve ratios for that fund, some of which are mandated by statute. Current economic conditions have increased bank failures, and the payments the FDIC must make using the resources of the deposit insurance fund to resolve such bank failures. The EESA included a provision for an increase for deposits insured by the FDIC to $250,000 until December 31, 2009, and has now extended the increase to December 31, 2013, which may further increase the exposure of the deposit insurance fund to losses. Further, Heartland has not opted out of FDIC’s Temporary Liquidity Guarantee Program, which provides unlimited deposit insurance on funds in noninterest-bearing transaction deposit accounts not otherwise covered by the existing deposit insurance limit of $250,000, and results in additional assessments. This program expires on June 30, 2010, and it is unknown whether Congress will extend the program. Further increases in deposit insurance premiums may be necessary in the future due to, among other things, additional increases in the number of bank failures. Any additional increase in deposit insurance premiums could have a material adverse effect on our financial results.

We have a continuing need for technological change and we may not have the resources to effectively implement new technology.

The financial services industry is undergoing rapid technological changes with frequent introductions of new technology-driven products and services. In addition to being able to better serve customers, the effective use of technology increases efficiency and enables financial institutions to reduce costs. Our future success will depend in part upon our ability to address the needs of our customers by using technology to provide products and services that will satisfy customer demands for convenience as well as to create additional efficiencies in our operations as we continue to grow and expand our market areas. Many of our larger competitors have substantially greater resources to invest in technological improvements. As a result, they may be able to offer additional or superior products to those that we will be able to offer, which would put us at a competitive disadvantage.

System failure or breaches of our network security could subject us to increased operating costs as well as litigation and other liabilities.

The computer systems and network infrastructure we use could be vulnerable to unforeseen problems. Our operations are dependent upon our ability to protect our computer equipment against damage from physical theft, fire, power loss, telecommunications failure or a similar catastrophic event, as well as from security breaches, denial of service attacks, viruses, worms and other disruptive problems caused by hackers. Any damage or failure that causes an interruption in our operations could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. Computer break-ins, phishing and other disruptions could also jeopardize the security of information stored in and transmitted through our computer systems and network infrastructure, which may result in significant liability to us and may cause existing and potential customers to refrain from doing business with us. Although we, with the help of third-party service providers, intend to continue to implement security technology and establish operational procedures to prevent such damage, there can be no assurance that these security measures will be successful. In addition, advances in computer capabilities, new discoveries in the field of cryptography or other developments could result in a compromise or breach of the algorithms we and our third-party service providers use to encrypt and protect customer transaction data. A failure of such security measures could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

We are subject to certain operational risks, including, but not limited to, customer or employee fraud and data processing system failures and errors.

Employee errors and employee or customer misconduct could subject us to financial losses or regulatory sanctions and seriously harm our reputation. Misconduct by our employees could include hiding unauthorized activities from us, improper or unauthorized activities on behalf of our customers or improper use of confidential information. It is not always possible to prevent employee errors and misconduct, and the precautions we take to prevent and detect this activity may not be effective in all cases. Employee errors could also subject us to financial claims for negligence.

We maintain a system of internal controls and insurance coverage to mitigate against operational risks, including data processing system failures and errors and customer or employee fraud. Should our internal controls fail to prevent or detect an occurrence, or if any resulting loss is not insured or exceeds applicable insurance limits, it could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Negative publicity could adversely impact our business and financial results.

Reputation risk, or the risk to our earnings and capital from negative publicity, is inherent to our business. Current public uneasiness with the United States banking system heightens this risk, as banking customers often transfer news regarding financial difficulties or even failure of some institutions, to fear of financial difficulty or failure of even the most secure institutions. In this climate, any negative news may become cause for curtailment of business relationships, withdrawal of funds or other actions that can have a compounding effect, and could adversely affect our operations.

Our stock price can be volatile.

Our stock price can fluctuate widely in response to a variety of factors, including; actual or anticipated variations in our quarterly operating results; recommendations by securities analysts; acquisitions or business combinations; capital commitments by or involving Heartland or our subsidiary banks; operating and stock price performance of other companies that investors deem comparable to us; new technology used or services offered by our competitors; new reports relating to trends, concerns and other issues in the financial services industry; and changes in government regulations. General market fluctuations, industry factors and general economic and political conditions and events have recently caused a decline in our stock price, and these factors as well as interest rate changes, continued unfavorable credit loss trends, or unforeseen events such as terrorist attacks could cause our stock price to remain volatile regardless of our operating results.

Certain Bank Subsidiaries are subject to informal written agreements with regulators and failure to comply with these agreements could result in enforcement actions against us.

Three of the Bank Subsidiaries have entered into informal written agreements with the FDIC and state regulators, which relate primarily to financial performance and credit quality. These Bank Subsidiaries have submitted three to five year business plans to their regulators and must operate within the parameters of these business plans and submit periodic reports on compliance with these plans. The agreements also require these Bank Subsidiaries to develop plans and take action to address nonperforming assets and watch-list credits. If these Bank Subsidiaries fail to comply with the terms of their respective agreements, the regulators could take enforcement action against them, including the imposition of monetary penalties or the issuance of cease and desist orders requiring corrective action.

ITEM 1B.

UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

As of December 31, 2009, Heartland had no unresolved staff comments.
 
 

 
ITEM 2.

PROPERTIES

The following table is a listing of Heartland’s principal operating facilities:

Name and Main Facility Address
Main Facility
Square Footage
Main Facility
Owned or Leased
Number of Locations
       
Dubuque Bank and Trust Company
1398 Central Avenue
Dubuque, IA  52001
 
 
59,500
 
 
Owned
 
 
8
       
Galena State Bank & Trust Co.
971 Gear Street
Galena, IL  61036
 
 
18,000
 
 
Owned
 
 
4
       
Riverside Community Bank
6855 E. Riverside Blvd.
Rockford, IL  60114
 
 
8,000
 
 
Owned
 
 
4
       
First Community Bank
320 Concert Street
Keokuk, IA  52632
 
 
6,000
 
 
Owned
 
 
3
       
Wisconsin Community Bank
8240 Mineral Point Rd.
Madison, WI  53719
 
 
19,000
 
 
Owned
 
 
7
       
New Mexico Bank & Trust
320 Gold NW
Albuquerque, NM  87102
 
 
11,400
 
Lease term
through 2011
 
 
16
       
Arizona Bank & Trust
2036 E. Camelback Rd.
Phoenix, AZ  85016
 
 
 
14,000
 
 
Owned
 
 
6
Rocky Mountain Bank
2615 King Avenue West
Billings, MT 59102
 
 
16,600
 
 
Owned
 
 
9
 
Summit Bank & Trust
       2002 E. Coalton Road
       Broomfield, CO 80027
 
 
14,000
 
 
Owned
 
 
3
 
Minnesota  Bank & Trust
       7701 France Avenue South, Suite 110
       Edina, MN 55435
 
 
 
6,100
 
Lease term
through 2013
 
 
 
1
 
Citizens Finance Co.
1275 Main Street
Dubuque, IA  52001
 
 
5,600
 
Leased from
DB&T
 
 
8
       

The principal office of Heartland is located in Dubuque Bank and Trust Company's main office.
 
ITEM 3.

LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

There are certain legal proceedings pending against Heartland and its subsidiaries at December 31, 2009, that are ordinary routine litigation incidental to our business. While the ultimate outcome of current legal proceedings cannot be predicted with certainty, it is the opinion of management that the resolution of these legal actions should not have a material effect on Heartland's consolidated financial position or results of operations.

ITEM 4.

[RESERVED]

 

 
EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

The term of office for the executive officers of Heartland is from the date of election until the next annual organizational meeting of the board of directors. The names and ages of the executive officers of Heartland as of December 31, 2009, offices held by these officers on that date and other positions held with Heartland and its subsidiaries are set forth below:

Name
Age
 
Position with Heartland and Subsidiaries and Principal Occupation
       
Lynn B. Fuller
60
 
Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Heartland; Vice Chairman of Dubuque Bank and Trust Company, Wisconsin Community Bank, New Mexico Bank & Trust, Arizona Bank & Trust, Rocky Mountain Bank, Summit Bank & Trust and Minnesota Bank & Trust; Chairman of Citizens Finance Co.
       
John K. Schmidt
50
 
Director, Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of Heartland; Vice Chairman of Dubuque Bank and Trust Company, Galena State Bank & Trust Co. and Riverside Community Bank; Director and Treasurer of Citizens Finance Co.
       
Kenneth J. Erickson
58
 
Executive Vice President, Chief Credit Officer of Heartland; Executive Vice President, Lending, of Dubuque Bank and Trust Company; Vice Chairman of Citizens Finance Co.
       
Edward H. Everts
58
 
Executive Vice President, Operations, of Heartland; Senior Vice President, Operations and Retail Banking of Dubuque Bank and Trust Company
       
Douglas J. Horstmann
56
 
Senior Vice President, Lending, of Heartland; Director, President and Chief Executive Officer of Dubuque Bank and Trust Company; Vice Chairman of First Community Bank
       
Paul J. Peckosh
64
 
Executive Vice President, Wealth Management Group, of Heartland; Executive Vice President, Manager Wealth Management Group, of Dubuque Bank and Trust Company
       
Melvin E. Miller
60
 
Executive Vice President, Chief Investment Officer of Heartland; Senior Vice President of Dubuque Bank and Trust Company
       
John J. Berg
58
 
Executive Vice President, Marketing and Sales of Heartland

Mr. Lynn B. Fuller is the brother-in-law of Mr. James F. Conlan, who is a director of Heartland. There are no other family relationships among any of the directors or executive officers of Heartland.

Lynn B. Fuller has been a Director of Heartland and of Dubuque Bank and Trust Company since 1984 and has been President of Heartland since 1987. Until 2004, Mr. Fuller had been a Director of Galena State Bank & Trust Co. since its acquisition by Heartland in 1992, First Community Bank since the merger in 1994 and Riverside Community Bank since the opening of this de novo operation in 1995. He has been a Director of Wisconsin Community Bank since the purchase of Cottage Grove State Bank in 1997, New Mexico Bank & Trust since the opening of this de novo bank in 1998, Arizona Bank & Trust since the opening of this de novo bank in 2003, Summit Bank & Trust since the opening of this de novo bank in 2006 and Minnesota Bank & Trust since the opening of this de novo bank in 2008. Mr. Fuller joined Dubuque Bank and Trust Company in 1971 as a consumer loan officer and was named Dubuque Bank and Trust Company's Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer in 1985. Mr. Fuller was President of Dubuque Bank and Trust Company from 1987 until 1999 at which time he was named Chief Executive Officer of Heartland.

John K. Schmidt has been a Director of Heartland since 2001. Mr. Schmidt has been Heartland's Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer since 1991 and Chief Operating Officer since 2004. He has been employed by Dubuque Bank and Trust Company since 1984 and became Dubuque Bank and Trust Company's Vice President, Finance in 1986, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer in January 1991, President and Chief Executive Officer in 1999 and Vice Chairman in 2004. Mr. Schmidt also was named Vice Chairman of Galena State Bank & Trust Co. and Riverside Community Bank in 2004. He also served as Vice Chairman and director of First Community Bank from 2004 to 2007. He is an inactive holder of the certified public accountant certification and worked at KPMG LLP in Des Moines, Iowa, prior to joining Dubuque Bank and Trust Company.

Kenneth J. Erickson was named Executive Vice President, Chief Credit Officer, of Heartland in 1999. Mr. Erickson has been employed by Dubuque Bank and Trust Company since 1975, and was appointed Vice President, Commercial Loans in 1985, Senior Vice President, Lending in 1989 and Executive Vice President in 2000. He was named Vice Chairman of Citizens Finance Co. in 2004. Prior to 2004, Mr. Erickson was Senior Vice President at Citizens Finance Co.

Edward H. Everts was named Executive Vice President, Operations, of Heartland in 2008. Prior to this promotion, he served as Senior Vice President, Operations and Retail Banking, of Heartland since 1996. Mr. Everts has been employed by Dubuque Bank and Trust Company as Senior Vice President, Operations and Retail Banking since 1992. Prior to his service with Dubuque Bank and Trust Company, Mr. Everts was Vice President and Lead Retail Banking Manager of First Bank, Duluth, Minnesota. Mr. Everts announced his retirement at the Heartland board of directors meeting on January 19, 2010. His retirement will be effective on October 16, 2010.

Douglas J. Horstmann has served as Senior Vice President of Heartland since 1999. He was also appointed as Vice Chairman and director of First Community Bank in 2007. Mr. Horstmann has been employed by Dubuque Bank and Trust Company since 1980, was appointed Vice President, Commercial Loans in 1985, Senior Vice President, Lending in 1989, Executive Vice President, Lending in 2000 and Director, President and Chief Executive Officer in 2004. Prior to joining Dubuque Bank and Trust Company, Mr. Horstmann was an examiner for the Iowa Division of Banking.

Paul J. Peckosh was named Executive Vice President, Wealth Management Group, of Heartland in 2008. Prior to this promotion, he  served as Senior Vice President of Heartland since 1999. Mr. Peckosh has been employed by Dubuque Bank and Trust Company since 1975, was appointed Assistant Vice President, Trust, in 1975, Vice President, Trust in 1980, Senior Vice President, Trust in 1991 and Executive Vice President, Trust in 2000. Mr. Peckosh is an attorney and graduated from the Marquette University of Law School in 1970. Mr. Peckosh announced his retirement on March 2, 2010. His retirement will be effective on April 4, 2011.

Melvin E. Miller was named Executive Vice President, Chief Investment Officer, of Heartland, in 2008. Prior to this promotion, he served as Senior Vice President, Chief Investment Officer, of Heartland since 2000. He joined Dubuque Bank and Trust in 1984 as a part-time Investment Officer and came on board full time in 1985 as Assistant Vice President and later was promoted to Senior Vice President and Chief Investment Officer. A Chartered Financial Analyst, Mr. Miller received his MBA degree in Finance from Ball State University in 1973. Prior to joining Dubuque Bank and Trust, he had 12 years of college teaching experience in the areas of investments and portfolio management. He was chair of the Department of Accounting and Business at Loras College.

John J. Berg joined Heartland in 2005 as Senior Vice President, Marketing and Sales. In 2008, he was promoted to Executive Vice President, Marketing and Sales. Berg’s background includes over 30 years of retail marketing and banking experience. Previous to joining Heartland, Mr. Berg served as Vice President and Marketing Director of First Federal Capital Bank in LaCrosse, Wisconsin. His prior experience includes marketing management positions with commercial banks and savings banks in West Des Moines, Iowa, St. Louis, Missouri, Waterloo, Iowa and Lansing, Michigan.

 

 
PART II

ITEM 5.

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

Heartland's common stock was held by approximately 1,500 stockholders of record as of March 9, 2010, and approximately 1,600 additional stockholders held shares in street name. The common stock of Heartland has been quoted on the NASDAQ Stock Market since May 2003 under the symbol “HTLF” and is a NASDAQ Global Select Market security.

For the periods indicated, the following table shows the range of reported prices per share of Heartland's common stock in the NASDAQ Global Select Market. These quotations represent inter-dealer prices without retail markups, markdowns, or commissions and do not necessarily represent actual transactions.

Heartland Common Stock
         
           
Calendar Quarter
 
High
   
Low
2009:
         
First
$
20.81
 
$
8.51
Second
 
15.93
   
11.51
Third
 
16.98
   
12.56
Fourth
 
15.29
   
12.04
           
2008:
         
First
$
22.40
 
$
16.78
Second
 
23.40
   
18.19
Third
 
25.06
   
18.40
Fourth
 
25.00
   
16.70

Cash dividends have been declared by Heartland quarterly during the past two years ending December 31, 2009. The following table sets forth the cash dividends per share paid on Heartland's common stock for the past two years:

Calendar Quarter
 
2009
   
2008
First
$
.10
 
$
.10
Second
 
.10
   
.10
Third
 
.10
   
.10
Fourth
 
.10
   
.10


Heartland's ability to pay dividends to stockholders is largely dependent upon the dividends it receives from the Bank Subsidiaries, and the Bank Subsidiaries are subject to regulatory limitations on the amount of cash dividends they may pay. Heartland will be prohibited from paying any dividends on common stock unless all dividends on the Preferred Stock have been paid, and under the Purchase Agreement with the Treasury and so long as the Preferred Stock is held by the Treasury will be prohibited until after December 19, 2011, from paying quarterly dividends, without the Treasury’s consent, in excess of $0.10 per share. See "Business – Supervision and Regulation – Heartland – Dividend Payments" and "Business – Supervision and Regulation - The Bank Subsidiaries – Dividend Payments" for a more detailed description of these limitations.

Heartland has issued junior subordinated debentures in several private placements. Under the terms of the debentures, Heartland may be prohibited, under certain circumstances, from paying dividends on shares of its common stock. None of these circumstances currently exist.
 
The following table provides information about purchases by Heartland and its affiliated purchasers during the quarter ended December 31, 2009, of equity securities that are registered by Heartland pursuant to Section 12 of the Exchange Act:

 
 
 
Period
(a)
Total Number of
Shares Purchased
(b)
Average Price Paid
per Share
(c)
Total Number of Shares Purchased
as Part of Publicly Announced
Plans or Programs(1)
(d)
Approximate Dollar Value of Shares that
May Yet Be Purchased Under the
Plans or Programs(2)
10/01/09-10/31/09
 -
 -
 -
 $2,719,281
11/01/09-11/30/09
 -
-
 -
 $2,852,760
12/01/09-12/31/09
 11,464
$14.10
11,464
$3,367,816
Total:
11,464
$14.10
11,464
N/A

(1)  
The amounts listed represent solely shares surrendered in the cashless exercise of stock options.
 
(2)  
Although Heartland’s board of directors authorized management to acquire and hold up to 500,000 shares of common stock as treasury shares at any one time, Heartland is prohibited from any repurchase, redemption, or acquisition of its common stock, except for certain repurchases to the extent of increases in shares outstanding because of issuances under existing benefit plans, under the terms of the Securities Purchase Agreement pursuant to which Heartland issued preferred stock to the Treasury under the Capital Purchase Program.

There were no unregistered sales of equity securities made during the fourth quarter of Heartland’s fiscal year 2009.
 
 

 
The following table and graph show a five-year comparison of cumulative total returns for Heartland Financial USA, Inc., the NASDAQ Composite Index and the NASDAQ Bank Stock Index. Figures for our common stock represent inter-dealer quotations, without retail markups, markdowns or commissions and do not necessarily represent actual transactions. Heartland became listed on NASDAQ in May 2004. The table and graph were prepared at our request by Research Data Group, Inc.

Cumulative Total Return Performance
 
12/31/04
12/31/05
12/31/06
12/31/07
12/31/08
12/31/09
Heartland Financial USA, Inc.
$100.00
$ 109.70
$ 147.95
$  96.80
$ 109.41
$ 78.47
NASDAQ Composite
$100.00
$ 101.41
$ 114.05
 $123.94
$   73.43
$ 105.89
NASDAQ Bank
$100.00
$  98.57
$ 111.92
$  89.33
$   71.39
$  60.47


COMPARISON OF FIVE YEAR CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN*
ASSUMES $100 INVESTED ON DECEMBER 31, 2004
      
               color graph
*Total return assumes reinvestment of dividends


 

 

ITEM 6.

SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
 
For the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, and 2005
 
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
 
     
2009
     
2008
     
2007
     
2006
     
2005
 
STATEMENT OF INCOME DATA
                                       
Interest income
 
$
203,293
   
$
202,585
   
$
215,231
   
$
190,150
   
$
151,489
 
Interest expense
   
70,530
     
86,899
     
105,891
     
85,409
     
58,916
 
Net interest income
   
132,763
     
115,686
     
109,340
     
104,741
     
92,573
 
Provision for loan and lease losses
   
39,377
     
29,319
     
10,073
     
3,883
     
6,533
 
Net interest income after provision for loan and lease losses
   
93,386
     
86,367
     
99,267
     
100,858
     
86,040
 
Noninterest income
   
52,704
     
30,196
     
31,710
     
29,938
     
25,457
 
Noninterest expenses
   
132,520
     
102,239
     
97,606
     
94,943
     
80,285
 
Income taxes
   
7,196
     
3,312
     
9,409
     
11,578
     
9,561
 
Income from continuing operations
   
6,374
     
11,012
     
23,962
     
24,275
     
21,651
 
Discontinued operations:
                                       
Income from discontinued operations   (including gain on sale of $2,242 in 2007 and $20 in 2006)
   
-
     
-
     
2,756
     
1,758
     
1,664
 
Income taxes
   
-
     
-
     
1,085
     
931
     
589
 
Income from discontinued operations
   
-
     
-
     
1,671
     
827
     
1,075
 
Net income
   
6,374
     
11,012
     
25,633
     
25,102
     
22,726
 
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest, net of tax
   
188
     
280
     
-
     
-
     
-
 
Net income attributable to Heartland
   
6,562
     
11,292
     
25,633
     
25,102
     
22,726
 
Preferred dividends and discount
   
(5,344
)
   
(178
)
   
-
     
-
     
-
 
Net income available to common stockholders
 
$
1,218
   
$
11,114
   
$
25,633
   
$
25,102
   
$
22,726
 
                                         
PER COMMON SHARE DATA
                                       
Net income – diluted
 
$
0.07
   
$
0.68
   
$
1.54
   
$
1.50
   
$
1.36
 
Income from continuing operations – diluted1
   
0.07
     
0.68
     
1.44
     
1.45
     
1.30
 
Cash dividends
   
0.40
     
0.40
     
0.37
     
0.36
     
0.33
 
Dividend payout ratio
   
532.35
%
   
58.13
%
   
23.60
%
   
23.53
%
   
23.82
%
Book value
 
$
14.38
   
$
14.13
   
$
14.04
   
$
12.65
   
$
11.46
 
Weighted average shares outstanding-diluted
   
16,325,320
     
16,365,815
     
16,596,806
     
16,734,989
     
16,702,146
 
                                         
BALANCE SHEET DATA
                                       
Investments and federal funds sold
 
$
1,175,217
   
$
903,705
   
$
689,949
   
$
617,119
   
$
567,002
 
Loans available for sale
   
17,310
     
19,695
     
12,679
     
50,381
     
40,745
 
Total loans and leases, net of unearned
   
2,331,142
     
2,405,001
     
2,280,167
     
2,147,845
     
1,953,066
 
Allowance for loan and lease losses
   
41,848
     
35,651
     
32,993
     
29,981
     
27,791
 
Total assets
   
4,012,991
     
3,630,268
     
3,264,126
     
3,058,242
     
2,818,332
 
Total deposits
   
3,050,389
     
2,640,232
     
2,376,299
     
2,311,657
     
2,118,178
 
Long-term obligations
   
451,429
     
437,833
     
263,607
     
224,523
     
220,871
 
Preferred equity
   
77,224
     
75,578
     
-
     
-
     
-
 
Common stockholders’ equity
   
235,057
     
230,025
     
230,600
     
209,711
     
187,812
 
                                         
EARNINGS PERFORMANCE DATA
                                       
Return on average total assets
   
0.03
%
   
0.33
%
   
0.81
%
   
0.86
%
   
0.84
%
Return on average stockholders’ equity
   
0.51
     
4.84
     
11.88
     
12.86
     
12.55
 
Net interest margin ratio1,2
   
3.99
     
3.89
     
3.95
     
4.17
     
4.03
 
Earnings to fixed charges:
                                       
Excluding interest on deposits
   
1.58
x
   
1.63
x
   
2.26
x
   
2.61
x
   
2.97
x
Including interest on deposits
   
1.18
     
1.17
     
1.34
     
1.44
     
1.55
 
                                         
ASSET QUALITY RATIOS
                                       
Nonperforming assets to total assets
   
2.71
%
   
2.51
%
   
1.06
%
   
0.34
%
   
0.60
%
Nonperforming loans and leases to total loans and leases
   
3.35
     
3.24
     
1.40
     
0.39
     
0.77
 
Net loan and lease charge-offs to average loans and leases
   
1.38
     
1.15
     
0.30
     
0.11
     
0.18
 
Allowance for loan and lease losses to total loans and leases
   
1.80
     
1.48
     
1.45
     
1.40
     
1.42
 
Allowance for loan and lease losses to nonperforming loans and leases
   
53.56
     
45.73
     
103.66
     
356.11
     
185.37
 
                                         
CONSOLIDATED CAPITAL RATIOS
                                       
Average equity to average assets
   
8.40
%
   
6.88
%
   
6.84
%
   
6.66
%
   
6.68
%
Average common equity to average assets
   
6.32
     
6.80
     
6.84
     
6.66
     
6.68
 
Total capital to risk-adjusted assets
   
15.20
     
14.92
     
12.48
     
11.18
     
10.61
 
Tier 1 leverage
   
13.53
     
10.68
     
8.01
     
7.74
     
7.66
 
                                         
*
 
The selected historical consolidated financial information set forth above is qualified in its entirety by reference to, and should be read in conjunction with, Heartland’s consolidated financial statements and notes thereto, included elsewhere in this report and Item 7. “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.”
     
1
 
Excludes the discontinued operations of our Broadus branch and the related gain on sale in 2007 and ULTEA and the related gain on sale in 2006.
2
 
Tax equivalent using a 35% tax rate.

 
ITEM 7.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The following presents management’s discussion and analysis of the consolidated financial condition and results of operations of Heartland Financial USA, Inc. ("Heartland") as of the dates and for the periods indicated. This discussion should be read in conjunction with the Selected Financial Data, Heartland’s Consolidated Financial Statements and the Notes thereto and other financial data appearing elsewhere in this report. The Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of Heartland and its subsidiaries. All of Heartland’s subsidiaries are wholly-owned except for Summit Bank & Trust, of which Heartland was an 86% owner on December 31, 2009, an 82% owner on December 31, 2008 and an 81% owner on December 31, 2007; and Minnesota Bank & Trust, of which Heartland was an 80% owner on December 31, 2009 and on December 31, 2008. Heartland was a 90% owner of Arizona Bank & Trust on December 31, 2007.

SAFE HARBOR STATEMENT

This document (including information incorporated by reference) contains, and future oral and written statements of Heartland and its management may contain, forward-looking statements, within the meaning of such term in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, with respect to the financial condition, results of operations, plans, objectives, future performance and business of Heartland. Forward-looking statements, which may be based upon the current beliefs, expectations and assumptions of Heartland’s management and on information currently available to management, are generally identifiable by the use of words such as "believe", "expect", "anticipate", "plan", "intend", "estimate", "may", "will", "would", "could", "should" or other similar expressions. Additionally, all statements in this document, including forward-looking statements, speak only as of the date they are made, and Heartland undertakes no obligation to update any statement in light of new information or future events.

Heartland’s ability to predict results or the actual effect of future plans or strategies is inherently uncertain. The factors which could have a material adverse effect on the operations and future prospects of Heartland and its subsidiaries are detailed in the “Risk Factors” section included under Item 1A. of Part I of this Form 10-K. These risks and uncertainties should be considered in evaluating forward-looking statements and undue reliance should not be placed on such statements.

OVERVIEW

Heartland is a diversified financial services holding company providing full-service community banking through ten banking subsidiaries with a total of 61 banking locations in Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin, New Mexico, Arizona, Montana, Colorado and Minnesota. In addition, Heartland has separate subsidiaries in the consumer finance, insurance and investment management businesses. Heartland's primary strategy is to balance its focus on increasing profitability with asset growth and diversification through acquisitions, de novo bank formations and branch openings within existing market areas.

Heartland’s results of operations depend primarily on net interest income, which is the difference between interest income from interest earning assets and interest expense on interest bearing liabilities. Noninterest income, which includes service charges and fees, trust income, brokerage and insurance commissions and gains on sale of loans, also affects Heartland’s results of operations. Heartland’s principal operating expenses, aside from interest expense, consist of compensation and employee benefits, occupancy and equipment costs and the provision for loan and lease losses.

Net income for 2009, was $6.4 million, compared to $11.0 million recorded during 2008. Net income available to common stockholders was $1.2 million, or $0.07 per diluted common share, for 2009, compared to $11.1 million, or $0.68 per diluted common share, earned during 2008. Return on average common equity was 0.51% and return on average assets was 0.03% for 2009, compared to 4.84% and 0.33%, respectively, for 2008.

Included in net income for 2009 was a $12.7 million goodwill impairment charge. This non-cash charge, which had no impact on operations, liquidity or capital, was due to the adverse economic conditions in Heartland’s Arizona and Montana markets. Excluding the goodwill impairment charge, net income for 2009 would have been $19.0 million, net income available to common stockholders would have been $13.9 million, or $0.85 per diluted common share, return on average common equity would have been 5.76% and return on average assets would have been 0.36%.

Earnings for 2009 were positively affected by increased net interest income, which increased $17.1 million or 15% over the prior year, primarily as a result of a $360.7 million or 12% growth in average earning assets. Net interest margin, expressed as a percentage of average earning assets, was 3.99% during 2009 compared to 3.89% during 2008. Also positively affecting net income for 2009, was the $22.5 million or 75% increase in noninterest income, which was $52.7 million during 2009 compared to $30.2 million during 2008. The categories experiencing the largest increases for the comparative period were securities gains, which increased $7.1 million or 467%, loan servicing income, which increased $5.1 million or 110%,  and gains on sale of loans, which increased $4.5 million or 278%. The growth in these areas was partially offset by an increase in the loan loss provision, which was $39.4 million during 2009 compared to $29.3 million during 2008. Also negatively affecting earnings during 2009 was a $30.3 million or 30% increase in noninterest expense. Exclusive of the $12.7 million goodwill impairment charge, noninterest expense totaled $119.8 million during 2009, an increase of $17.6 million or 17%. The noninterest expense categories contributing to the increase during the periods under comparison were employee salaries and benefits, which were $60.5 million during 2009 compared to $56.8 million during 2008, FDIC assessments, which were $6.6 million during 2009 compared to $1.4 million during 2008, and net losses on repossessed assets, which were $10.8 million during 2009 compared to $827,000 during 2008.

On July 2, 2009, Heartland acquired all deposits of The Elizabeth State Bank in Elizabeth, Illinois through its subsidiary Galena State Bank & Trust Co. based in Galena, Illinois in a whole bank loss sharing transaction facilitated by the FDIC. Bank branches previously owned and operated by The Elizabeth State Bank reopened on Monday, July 6, 2009, as Galena State Bank & Trust Co. branches. As of July 2, 2009, The Elizabeth State Bank had loans of $42.7 million and deposits of $49.3 million. Galena State Bank & Trust Co. paid a premium of 1.0 percent to acquire all of the deposits of the failed bank. In addition to assuming all of the deposits of the failed bank, Galena State Bank & Trust Co. purchased $53.6 million of assets. The FDIC retained the remaining assets for later disposition.

The acquired loans and other real estate owned are covered by two loss share agreements between the FDIC and Galena State Bank & Trust Co., which affords Galena State Bank & Trust Co. significant loss protection. Under the loss share agreements, the FDIC will cover 80 percent of the covered loan and other real estate owned losses (referred to as covered assets) up to $10 million and 95 percent of losses in excess of that amount. The term for loss sharing on non-residential real estate losses is five years with respect to losses and eight years with respect to recoveries, while the term for loss sharing on residential real estate loans is ten years with respect to losses and recoveries. The reimbursable losses from the FDIC are based on the book value of the relevant loan as determined by the FDIC at the date of the transaction. New loans made after that date are not covered by the loss share agreements.

Galena State Bank & Trust Co. received a $2.5 million discount on the assets acquired and paid a 1.0 percent deposit premium. The expected reimbursements under the loss share agreements were recorded as an indemnification asset at the estimated fair value of $4.4 million at the acquisition date. The estimated fair value of the loans acquired was $37.8 million and the estimated fair value of the deposits assumed was $49.5 million. In addition, a core deposit intangible was recorded of $200 thousand. An acquisition gain totaling $1.3 million resulted from the acquisition and is included as a component of noninterest income on the statement of income. The amount of the gain was equal to the amount by which the fair value of the liabilities assumed exceeded the fair value of the assets purchased. During the fourth quarter of 2009, other noninterest income included $1.1 million in payments due from the FDIC under loss share agreements associated with The Elizabeth State Bank acquisition.

Net income for 2008, was $11.0 million, or $0.68 per diluted share, compared to $25.6 million, or $1.54 per diluted share, recorded during 2007. Return on average equity was 4.84% and return on average assets was 0.33% for 2008, compared to 11.88% and 0.81%, respectively, for 2007. Income from continuing operations during 2008 was $11.0 million, or $0.68 per diluted share, compared to $24.0 million, or $1.44 per diluted share, earned during 2007.

The $13.0 million or 54% decrease in income from continuing operations resulted primarily from increased provision for loan and lease losses, which was $29.3 million during 2008 compared to $10.1 million during 2007, an increase of $19.2 million or 191%. The increased loan loss provision in 2008 was due, in large part, to the continued deterioration of economic conditions and reduced real estate values, particularly in Heartland’s Western markets located in Arizona, Montana and Colorado. The impact of this additional expense on earnings was partially mitigated by increased net interest income, which increased $6.3 million or 6% over the prior year, primarily as a result of a $215.3 million or 8% growth in average earning assets and was partially offset as the amount of nonperforming loans increased throughout the year. Nonperforming loans were $78.0 million or 3.24% of total loans and leases at December 31, 2008. Net interest margin, expressed as a percentage of average earning assets, was 3.89% during 2008 compared to 3.95% during 2007.

For 2008, noninterest income decreased $1.5 million or 5% from 2007, primarily as a result of loss adjustments on the cash surrender value on bank-owned life insurance totaling $1.2 million for 2008 compared to income of $1.8 million during 2007. Included in the 2008 noninterest income was a $5.2 million gain on the sale of Heartland’s merchant bankcard processing services to TransFirst LLC and a $4.6 million impairment loss recorded on Heartland’s investment in perpetual preferred securities issued by Fannie Mae. For 2008, noninterest expense increased $4.6 million or 5%. The largest component of noninterest expense, salaries and employee benefits, grew by $2.2 million or 4%. Total full-time equivalent employees were 1,028 at December 31, 2008, compared to 982 at December 31, 2007. Occupancy expense increased during 2008, primarily as a result of the opening of six new banking offices during 2007 and the 2008 opening of Heartland’s 10th bank subsidiary, Minnesota Bank & Trust, and one new banking office at New Mexico Bank & Trust. The other category of noninterest expense that increased significantly during 2008 was professional fees, resulting primarily from additional legal fees related to collection efforts on nonperforming loans and additional FDIC assessments as a majority of the FDIC credits at Heartland’s bank subsidiaries were utilized during 2007.

At December 31, 2009, total assets had increased $382.7 million or 11% since year-end 2008. Securities represented 29% of total assets at December 31, 2009, compared to 25% at December 31, 2008. Additional securities were purchased during 2009 as deposit growth outpaced loan growth. Total loans and leases, exclusive of those covered by the FDIC loss share agreements, were $2.33 billion at December 31, 2009, compared to $2.41 billion at year-end 2008, a decrease of $73.9 million or 3%. The only loan category to experience growth during 2009 was agricultural and agricultural real estate loans, which also experienced a slight decrease during the fourth quarter of 2009. Nearly all of this growth occurred at Dubuque Bank and Trust Company. Total deposits grew to $3.05 billion at December 31, 2009, an increase of $410.2 million or 16% since year-end 2008. The Elizabeth State Bank acquisition accounted for $49.5 million of this growth. This growth was weighted more heavily in Heartland’s Midwestern markets, which were responsible for nearly 57% of the growth. Growth in demand and savings deposits is attributable to an increased emphasis on non-maturity core deposit products over higher-cost certificates of deposit. Additionally, commercial and retail customers have continued to build cash reserves. Demand deposits increased $77.6 million or 20% since year-end 2008 with $6.9 million coming from The Elizabeth State Bank acquisition. Savings deposit balances experienced an increase of $426.0 million or 38% since year-end 2008 with $21.0 million coming from The Elizabeth State Bank acquisition. Time deposits, exclusive of brokered deposits, experienced a decrease of $83.8 million or 8% since year-end 2008 despite the $21.6 million assumed in The Elizabeth State Bank acquisition. Brokered time deposits decreased from $51.5 million or 2% of total deposits at year-end 2008, to $41.8 million or 1% of total deposits at year-end 2009. Deposit growth, exclusive of The Elizabeth State Bank acquisition, was $106.0 million during the fourth quarter of 2009, $67.4 million during the third quarter of 2009, $38.8 million during the second quarter of 2009 and $148.5 million during the first quarter of 2009.

At December 31, 2008, total assets had increased $366.1 million or 11% since year-end 2007. Total loans and leases were $2.41 billion at December 31, 2008, compared to $2.28 billion at year-end 2007, an increase of $124.8 million or 5%. The loan categories contributing to this growth were the commercial, agricultural and consumer loan categories which increased $85.5 million, $22.0 million and $34.5 million, respectively, since year-end 2007. Total deposits grew to $2.64 billion at December 31, 2008, an increase of $263.9 million or 11% since year-end 2007. Growth in deposits was weighted more heavily in Heartland’s Western markets which were responsible for nearly 54% of the total growth. Demand deposits experienced an increase of $1.6 million or nearly 1% since year-end 2007. Savings deposit balances experienced an increase of $273.3 million or 32% since year-end 2007. Time deposits, exclusive of brokered deposits, increased $6.6 million or 1% since year-end 2007. At December 31, 2008, brokered time deposits totaled $51.5 million or 2% of total deposits compared to $69.0 million or 3% of total deposits at year-end 2007. A large portion of the growth in savings deposits is attributable to the January 2008 introduction of a new retail interest-bearing checking account product, the conversion of several retail repurchase agreement sweep accounts to a new money market sweep product initially rolled out to business depositors during the second quarter of 2008 and a promotional offer on a new money market savings product offered late in the third quarter of 2008.

On December 19, 2008, Heartland received $81.7 million through participation in the CPP. Funds received by Heartland were allocated to debt reduction, capital maintenance at the Bank Subsidiaries and short-term investments. Heartland continues to honor the intent of the CPP by seeking high quality lending opportunities and the potential acquisition of banks in its existing markets.

 

 
NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES

This report contains financial information determined by methods other than in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, often referred to as GAAP. Heartland has disclosed in this release certain non-GAAP financial measures to provide meaningful supplemental information regarding its operational performance and to enhance readers’ overall understanding of its operating financial performance. Management believes that the impact of the goodwill impairment charge to earnings in 2009 impairs the ability of the reader to evaluate trends in results of operations without information that reports results of operations without the charge. These non-GAAP financial measures are presented for supplemental information purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for financial information presented in accordance with GAAP. The following schedule presents performance ratios in accordance with GAAP and a reconciliation of the non-GAAP financial measurements to the GAAP financial measurements. For the non-GAAP financial measurements, net income, exclusive of goodwill impairment charge is defined as net income as presented in accordance with GAAP less any goodwill impairment charge recorded during the period.
 
 
   
For the years ended
December 31,
     
2009
     
2008
 
                 
GAAP net income
 
$
6,374
   
$
11,012
 
Goodwill impairment charge
   
12,659
     
-
 
GAAP net income, exclusive of goodwill impairment charge
 
$
19,033
   
$
11,012
 
                 
Net income available to common stockholders
 
$
1,218
   
$
11,114
 
Goodwill impairment charge
   
12,659
     
-
 
Net income available to common stockholders, exclusive of goodwill impairment charge
 
$
13,877
   
$
11,114
 
                 
GAAP earnings per common share-diluted
 
$
0.07
   
$
0.68
 
Earnings per common share-diluted, exclusive of goodwill impairment charge
 
$
0.85
   
$
0.68
 
GAAP return on average assets
   
0.03
%
   
0.33
%
Return on average assets, exclusive of goodwill impairment charge
   
0.36
%
   
0.33
%
GAAP return on average equity
   
0.51
%
   
4.84
%
Return on average equity, exclusive of goodwill impairment charge
   
5.76
%
   
4.84
%
GAAP return on average tangible equity
   
0.62
%
   
5.85
%
Return on average tangible equity, exclusive of goodwill impairment charge
   
7.02
%
   
5.85
%
GAAP efficiency ratio
   
73.07
%
   
68.78
%
Efficiency ratio, exclusive of goodwill impairment charge
   
66.09
%
   
68.78
%

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The preparation of financial statements requires management to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, income and expenses. These estimates are based upon historical experience and on various other assumptions that management believes are reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions. The estimates and judgments that management believes have the most effect on Heartland’s reported financial position and results of operations are as follows:

Allowance For Loan And Lease Losses

The process utilized by Heartland to estimate the adequacy of the allowance for loan and lease losses is considered a critical accounting policy for Heartland. The allowance for loan and lease losses represents management’s estimate of identified and unidentified probable losses in the existing loan portfolio. Thus, the accuracy of this estimate could have a material impact on Heartland’s earnings. The adequacy of the allowance for loan and lease losses is determined using factors that include the overall composition of the loan portfolio, general economic conditions, types of loans, loan collateral values, past loss experience, loan delinquencies, and potential losses from identified substandard and doubtful credits. Nonperforming loans and large non-homogeneous loans are specifically reviewed for impairment and the allowance is allocated on a loan-by-loan basis as deemed necessary. Homogeneous loans and loans not specifically evaluated are grouped into pools to which a loss percentage, based on historical experience, is allocated. The adequacy of the allowance for loan and lease losses is monitored on an ongoing basis by the loan review staff, senior management and the boards of directors of each subsidiary bank. Specific factors considered by management in establishing the allowance included the following:

*
Heartland has experienced an increase in net charge-offs and nonperforming loans during the past two years.
   
*
During the last several years, Heartland has entered new geographical markets in which it had little or no previous lending experience.
   
*
Heartland has continued to experience growth in more complex commercial loans as compared to relatively lower-risk residential real estate loans.

There can be no assurances that the allowance for loan and lease losses will be adequate to cover all loan losses, but management believes that the allowance for loan and lease losses was adequate at December 31, 2009. While management uses available information to provide for loan and lease losses, the ultimate collectibility of a substantial portion of the loan portfolio and the need for future additions to the allowance will be based on changes in economic conditions. Should the economic climate continue to deteriorate, borrowers may experience difficulty, and the level of nonperforming loans, charge-offs, and delinquencies could rise and require further increases in the provision for loan and lease losses. In addition, various regulatory agencies, as an integral part of their examination process, periodically review the allowance for loan and lease losses carried by the Heartland subsidiaries. Such agencies may require Heartland to make additional provisions to the allowance based upon their judgment about information available to them at the time of their examinations.

The table below estimates the theoretical range of the 2009 allowance outcomes and related changes in provision expense assuming either a reasonably possible deterioration in loan credit quality or a reasonably possible improvement in loan credit quality:

THEORETICAL RANGE OF ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN AND LEASE LOSSES
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
       
Allowance for loan and lease losses at December 31, 2009
$
41,848
 
Assuming deterioration in credit quality:
     
Addition to provision
 
4,766
 
Resultant allowance for loan and lease losses
$
46,614
 
Assuming improvement in credit quality:
     
Reduction in provision
 
(2,050
)
Resultant allowance for loan and lease losses
$
39,798
 

The assumptions underlying this sensitivity analysis represent an attempt to quantify theoretical changes that could occur in the total allowance for loan and lease losses given various economic assumptions that could impact inherent loss in the current loan and lease portfolio. It further assumes that the general composition of the allowance for loans and lease losses determined through Heartland’s existing process and methodology remains relatively unchanged. It does not attempt to encompass extreme and/or prolonged economic downturns, systemic contractions to specific industries, or systemic shocks to the financial services sector. The addition to provision was calculated based upon the assumption that, under an economic downturn, a certain percentage of loan balances in each rating pool would migrate from its current loan grade to the next lower loan grade. The reduction in provision was calculated based upon the assumption that, under an economic upturn, a certain percentage of loan balances in each rating pool would migrate from its current loan grade to the next higher loan grade. The estimation of the percentage of loan balances that would migrate from its current rating pool to the next was based upon Heartland’s experiences during previous periods of economic movement.

Goodwill And Other Intangibles

Heartland records all assets and liabilities acquired in purchase acquisitions, including goodwill and other intangibles, at fair value. Goodwill and indefinite-lived assets are not amortized but are subject, at a minimum, to annual tests for impairment. In certain situations, interim impairment tests may be required if events occur or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting segment below its carrying amount. Other intangible assets are amortized over their estimated useful lives using straight-line and accelerated methods and are subject to impairment if events or circumstances indicate a possible inability to realize the carrying amount.

The initial recognition of goodwill and other intangible assets and subsequent impairment analysis require management to make subjective judgments concerning estimates of how the acquired assets will perform in the future using valuation methods including discounted cash flow analysis. Additionally, estimated cash flows may extend beyond ten years and, by their nature, are difficult to determine over an extended timeframe. Events and factors that may significantly affect the estimates include, among others, competitive forces, customer behaviors, changes in revenue growth trends, cost structures, technology, changes in discount rates and market conditions. In determining the reasonableness of cash flow estimates, Heartland reviews historical performance of the underlying assets or similar assets in an effort to assess and validate assumptions utilized in its estimates.

In assessing the fair value of reporting units, Heartland may consider the stage of the current business cycle and potential changes in market conditions in estimating the timing and extent of future cash flows. Also, management often utilizes other information to validate the reasonableness of its valuations including public market comparables, and multiples of recent mergers and acquisitions of similar businesses. Valuation multiples may be based on revenue, price-to-earnings and tangible capital ratios of comparable companies and business segments. These multiples may be adjusted to consider competitive differences, including size, operating leverage and other factors. The carrying amount of a reporting unit is determined based on the capital required to support the reporting unit’s activities, including its tangible and intangible assets. The determination of a reporting unit’s capital allocation requires management judgment and considers many factors, including the regulatory capital regulations and capital characteristics of comparable companies in relevant industry sectors. In certain circumstances, management will engage a third-party to independently validate its assessment of the fair value of its reporting units.

Management assesses the impairment of identifiable intangible assets, long lived assets and related goodwill whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value may not be recoverable. Factors considered important, which could trigger an impairment review include the following:

*
Significant under-performance relative to expected historical or projected future operating results.
*
Significant changes in the manner of use of the acquired assets or the strategy for the overall business.
*
Significant negative industry or economic trends.
*
Significant decline in Heartland’s stock price for a sustained period; and market capitalization relative to net book value.
*
For intangible assets and long-lived assets, if the carrying value of the asset exceeds the undiscounted cash flows from such asset.

Heartland engaged a third-party valuation consultant to determine the fair value of goodwill recorded in connection with two of its Bank Subsidiaries at the end of 2009.  Based on this valuation, Heartland determined that the fair value of the goodwill associated with these two subsidiaries was less than the carrying amount previously used for this goodwill and that the goodwill was impaired.  Accordingly, Heartland recorded an impairment charge of $12.7 million in the fourth quarter of 2009 to reduce the carrying value to fair value.

Because of current economic conditions, Heartland continues to monitor goodwill and other intangible assets for impairment indicators throughout the year.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Net Interest Income

Net interest income is the difference between interest income earned on earning assets and interest expense paid on interest bearing liabilities. As such, net interest income is affected by changes in the volume and yields on earning assets and the volume and rates paid on interest bearing liabilities. Net interest margin is the ratio of tax equivalent net interest income to average earning assets.

Net interest margin, expressed as a percentage of average earning assets, was 3.99% during 2009 compared to 3.89% during 2008 and 3.95% during 2007. Success at growing net interest margin has been a direct result of continued price discipline. Management is committed to maintaining margin near the 4.00% level and will not compete for loans or deposits strictly for the sake of growth. Affecting the net interest margin throughout 2009, 2008 and most of 2007 was the impact of foregone interest on Heartland’s nonperforming loans, which had balances of $78.1 million or 3.35% of total loans and leases at December 31, 2009, $78.0 million or 3.24% of total loans and leases at December 31, 2008, and $31.8 million or 1.40% of total loans and leases at December 31, 2007.

Net interest income on a tax-equivalent basis increased $17.7 million or 15% during 2009 and $6.5 million or 6% during 2008. The growth in average earning assets, particularly in relation to the growth in interest bearing liabilities, was the most significant contributor to the increase in net interest income in 2009, as average interest earning assets increased by $360.7 million or 12%, while interest bearing liabilities increased by $283.7 million or 10%.  More rapidly declining rates paid on interest bearing liabilities also contributed to the increased net interest income in 2009, as the rate paid on average interest bearing liabilities decreased by 84 basis points, compared to a 67 basis point decrease in the rate earned in average earning assets. Growth in average earning assets and declining rates also positively contributed to increased net interest income in 2008, with the decline in interest rates paid on interest bearing liabilities being a more significant contributor. During 2008, average interest earning assets increased by $215.3 million or 8% and average interest bearing liabilities increased by $206.7 million or 8%. The rate paid on average interest bearing liabilities decreased by 101 basis points during 2008, compared to a 94 basis point decrease in the rate earned in average earning assets during 2008. Fluctuations in net interest income between years is also related to the composition of average earning assets and interest bearing liabilities. The percentage of average loans, which are typically the highest yielding asset, to total average assets was 62% during 2009, 68% during 2008 and 71% during 2007. The percentage of average time deposits, which are typically the highest cost deposits, to total average deposits was 40% during 2009, 47% during 2008 and 49% during 2007.

On a tax-equivalent basis, interest income increased $1.3 million or 1% to $207.8 million in 2009 from $206.5 million in 2008 but decreased $12.4 million or 6% in 2008 from $218.9 million during 2007. The increase in net interest income attributable to the growth in average earnings assets was almost equally offset by the impact of a decrease in the average interest rate earned on these assets of 67 basis points during 2009 as compared to 2008. Nearly half of Heartland’s commercial and agricultural loan portfolios consist of floating rate loans that reprice immediately upon a change in the national prime interest rate, thus changes in the national prime rate impact interest income more quickly than if there were more fixed rate loans. The national prime interest rate remained unchanged at 3.25% throughout 2009 whereas throughout 2008, the national prime interest rate decreased from a high of 7.25% on January 1 to a low of 3.25% at December 31. A portion of the negative impact decreasing interest rates would have on Heartland’s interest income was mitigated by interest rate floors that have been in effect on a large portion of Heartland’s floating rate loans. Additionally, Heartland had two $50.0 million derivative transactions on the loan portfolio that were at their floor interest rates, one of which matured on April 4, 2009.

Interest expense for 2009 was $70.5 million , a decrease of $16.4 million or 19% from $86.9 million during 2008, which in turn represented a decrease of $19.0 million or 18% from $105.9 million in 2007. Interest rates paid on Heartland’s deposits and borrowings decreased significantly during 2009 and 2008. Despite increases in average interest bearing liabilities of 10% in 2009 and 8% in 2008, the average interest rates paid on Heartland’s deposits and borrowings declined 84 basis points in 2009 and 67 basis points in 2008. Approximately 35% of Heartland’s certificate of deposit accounts, which carry a weighted average rate of 1.91%, will mature within the next six months.
Heartland attempts to manage its balance sheet to minimize the effect that a change in interest rates has on its net interest margin. Heartland plans to continue to work toward improving both its earning asset and funding mix through targeted growth strategies that emphasize conservative pricing of deposits and careful underwriting of loans, which management believes will result in additional net interest margin. Heartland’s net interest income simulations reflect a well-balanced and manageable interest rate posture. Management supports a pricing discipline in which the focus is less on price and more on the unique value provided to business and retail clients. Item 7A of this Form 10-K contains additional information about the results of Heartland’s most recent net interest income simulations. Note 13 to the consolidated financial statements contains a detailed discussion of the derivative instruments Heartland has utilized to manage its interest rate risk.

 

 
The table below sets forth certain information relating to Heartland’s average consolidated balance sheets and reflects the yield on average earning assets and the cost of average interest bearing liabilities for the years indicated. Dividing income or expense by the average balance of assets or liabilities derives such yields and costs. Average balances are derived from daily balances, and nonaccrual loans are included in each respective loan category. Interest income is measured on a tax equivalent basis using a 35% tax rate.

ANALYSIS OF AVERAGE BALANCES, TAX EQUIVALENT YIELDS AND RATES 1
(Dollars in thousands)
   
For the years ended Decmeber 31,
   
2009
 
2008
 
2007
   
Average
Balance
 
Interest
 
Rate
 
Average
Balance
 
Interest
 
Rate
 
Average
Balance
 
Interest
 
Rate
EARNING ASSETS
                                                           
Securities:
                                                           
Taxable
 
$
873,276
   
$
39,782
 
4.56
%
 
$
616,525
   
$
31,232
 
5.07
%
 
$
477,338
   
$
21,937
 
4.60
%
Nontaxable 1
   
186,716
     
12,307
 
6.59
     
151,828
     
9,813
 
6.46
     
136,552
     
9,077
 
6.65
 
Total securities
   
1,059,992
     
52,089
 
4.91
     
768,353
     
41,045
 
5.34
     
613,890
     
31,014
 
5.05
 
Interest bearing deposits
   
2,943
     
27
 
0.92
     
706
     
18
 
2.55
     
700
     
33
 
4.71
 
Federal funds sold
   
835
     
2
 
0.24
     
15,494
     
299
 
1.93
     
7,295
     
387
 
5.31
 
Loans and leases:
                                                           
Commercial and commercial real estate 1
   
1,696,794
     
101,854
 
6.00
     
1,645,264
     
108,651
 
6.60
     
1,597,247
     
125,916
 
7.88
 
Residential mortgage
   
219,303
     
12,596
 
5.74
     
223,334
     
14,169
 
6.34
     
240,932
     
16,303
 
6.77
 
Agricultural and agricultural real estate 1
   
259,700
     
16,633
 
6.40
     
238,328
     
16,933
 
7.10
     
225,471
     
18,209
 
8.08
 
Consumer
   
232,475
     
20,325
 
8.74
     
212,430
     
20,004
 
9.42
     
196,432
     
20,655
 
10.52
 
Direct financing leases, net
   
3,927
     
213
 
5.42
     
7,489
     
445
 
5.94
     
11,939
     
714
 
5.98
 
Fees on loans
   
-
     
4,085
 
-
     
-
     
4,914
 
-
     
-
     
5,696
 
-
 
Less: allowance for loan and lease losses
   
(37,964
)
   
-
 
-
     
(34,048
)
   
-
 
-
     
(31,870
)
   
-
 
-
 
Net loans and leases
   
2,374,235
     
155,706
 
6.56
     
2,292,797
     
165,116
 
7.20
     
2,240,151
     
187,493
 
8.37
 
Total earning assets
   
3,438,005
   
$
207,824
 
6.04
%
   
3,077,350
   
$
206,478
 
6.71
%
   
2,862,036
   
$
218,927
 
7.65
%
NONEARNING ASSETS
                                                           
    Total nonearning assets
   
374,738
                 
301,580
                 
292,788
             
TOTAL ASSETS
 
$
3,812,743
               
$
3,378,930
               
$
3,154,824
             
INTEREST BEARING LIABILITIES
                                                           
Interest bearing deposits:
                                                           
Savings
 
$
1,282,212
   
$
18,407
 
1.44
%
 
$
938,701
   
$
18,176
 
1.94
%
 
$
831,675
   
$
22,404
 
2.69
%
Time, $100,000 and over
   
373,159
     
11,202
 
3.00
     
336,926
     
13,422
 
3.98
     
291,073
     
14,307
 
4.92
 
Other time deposits
   
754,814
     
23,135
 
3.06
     
807,617
     
32,506
 
4.02
     
876,146
     
41,154
 
4.70
 
Short-term borrowings
   
143,239
     
733
 
0.51
     
233,856
     
4,571
 
1.95
     
287,428
     
13,293
 
4.62
 
Other borrowings
   
464,816
     
17,053
 
3.67
     
417,462
     
18,224
 
4.37
     
241,517
     
14,733
 
6.10
 
Total interest bearing liabilities
   
3,018,240
     
70,530
 
2.34
     
2,734,562
     
86,899
 
3.18
     
2,527,839
     
105,891
 
4.19
 
NONINTEREST BEARING LIABILITIES
                                                           
Noninterest bearing deposits
   
437,468
                 
372,496
                 
362,109
             
Accrued interest and other liabilities
   
36,700
                 
39,351
                 
49,136
             
    Total noninterest bearing liabilities
   
474,168
                 
411,847
                 
411,245
             
STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
   
320,335
                 
232,521
                 
215,740
             
TOTAL LIABILITIES & STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
 
$
3,812,743
               
$
3,378,930
               
$
3,154,824
             
                                                             
Net interest income 1
         
$
137,294
               
$
119,579
               
$
113,036
     
Net interest spread
               
3.70
%
               
3.53
%
               
3.46
%
Net interest income to total earning assets 1
               
3.99
%
               
3.89
%
               
3.95
%
Interest bearing liabilities to earning assets
   
87.79
%
               
88.86
%
               
88.32
%
           
                                                             
1  Tax equivalent basis is calculated using an effective tax rate of 35%.
 
 

 

The following table presents the dollar amount of changes in interest income and interest expense for the major components of interest earning assets and interest bearing liabilities. It quantifies the changes in interest income and interest expense related to changes in the average outstanding balances (volume) and those changes caused by fluctuating interest rates. For each category of interest earning assets and interest bearing liabilities, information is provided on changes attributable to (i) changes in volume, calculated by multiplying the difference between the average balance for the current period and the average balance for the prior period by the rate for the previous period, and (ii) changes in rate, calculated by subtracting the current year average balance multiplied by the prior year rate from the current year average balance multiplied by the current year rate.

ANALYSIS OF CHANGES IN NET INTEREST INCOME
(Dollars in thousands)
   
For the years ended December 31,
   
2009 Compared to 2008
 
2008 Compared to 2007
   
Change Due to
 
Change Due to
   
Volume
 
Rate
 
Net
 
Volume
 
Rate
 
Net
EARNING ASSETS / INTEREST INCOME
                                               
Investment securities:
                                               
Taxable
 
$
13,007
   
$
(4,457
)
 
$
8,550
   
$
6,397
   
$
2,898
   
$
9,295
 
Tax-exempt
   
2,255
     
239
     
2,494
     
1,015
     
(279
)
   
736
 
Interest bearing deposits
   
57
     
(48
)
   
9
     
-
     
(15
)
   
(15
)
Federal funds sold
   
(283
)
   
(14
)
   
(297
)
   
435
     
(523
)
   
(88
)
Loans and leases
   
5,865
     
(15,275
)
   
(9,410
)
   
4,406
     
(26,783
)
   
(22,377
)
TOTAL EARNING ASSETS
   
20,901
     
(19,555
)
   
1,346
     
12,253
     
(24,702
)
   
(12,449
)
                                                 
LIABILITIES / INTEREST EXPENSE
                                               
Interest bearing deposits:
                                               
Savings
   
6,651
     
(6,420
)
   
231
     
2,883
     
(7,111
)
   
(4,228
)
Time, $100,000 and over
   
1,443
     
(3,663
)
   
(2,220
)
   
2,254
     
(3,139
)
   
(885
)
Other time deposits
   
(2,125
)
   
(7,246
)
   
(9,371
)
   
(3,219
)
   
(5,429
)
   
(8,648
)
Short-term borrowings
   
(1,771
)
   
(2,067
)
   
(3,838
)
   
(2,478
)
   
(6,244
)
   
(8,722
)
Other borrowings
   
2,067
     
(3,238
)
   
(1,171
)
   
10,733
     
(7,242
)
   
3,491
 
TOTAL INTEREST BEARING LIABILITIES
   
6,265
     
(22,634
)
   
(16,369
)
   
10,173
     
(29,165
)
   
(18,992
)
NET INTEREST INCOME
 
$
14,636
   
$
3,079
   
$
17,715
   
$
2,080
   
$
4,463
   
$
6,543
 

Provision For Loan And Lease Losses

The allowance for loan and lease losses is established through a provision charged to expense to provide, in Heartland management’s opinion, an adequate allowance for loan and lease losses. The adequacy of the allowance for loan and lease losses is determined by management using factors that include the overall composition of the loan portfolio, general economic conditions, types of loans, loan collateral values, past loss experience, loan delinquencies, substandard credits and doubtful credits. For additional details on the specific factors considered, refer to the critical accounting policies and allowance for loan and lease losses sections of this report.

The allowance for loan and lease losses at December 31, 2009, was 1.80% of loans and leases and 53.56% of nonperforming loans, compared to 1.48% of loans and leases and 45.73% of nonperforming loans at December 31, 2008. The total provision for loan losses for 2009 was $39.4 million compared to $29.3 million for 2008. Additions to the allowance for loan and lease losses during 2009 were driven by a variety of factors including deterioration of economic conditions, downgrades in internal risk ratings, reductions in appraised values and higher levels of charge-offs, primarily in Heartland’s Western markets of Arizona, Montana and Colorado.

The allowance for loan and lease losses at December 31, 2008, was 1.48% of loans and leases and 45.73% of nonperforming loans, compared to 1.45% of loans and leases and 103.66% of nonperforming loans at December 31, 2007. The total provision for loan losses for 2008 was $29.3 million compared to $10.1 million for 2007. Additions to the allowance for loan and lease losses during 2008 were driven by a variety of factors including deterioration of economic conditions, downgrades in internal risk ratings, reductions in appraised values, higher levels of charge-offs and an increase in nonperforming loans, primarily in Heartland’s Western markets of Arizona, Montana and Colorado.

 

 
Noninterest Income

The table below shows Heartland’s noninterest income for the years indicated:

(Dollars in thousands)
   
For the years ended December 31,
 
% Change
   
2009
 
2008
 
2007
 
2009/
2008
 
2008/
2007
Service charges and fees, net
 
$
12,541
   
$
11,654
   
$
11,108
   
8
%
 
5
%
Loan servicing income
   
9,666
     
4,600
     
4,376
   
110
   
5
 
Trust fees
   
7,773
     
7,906
     
8,053
   
(2
)
 
(2
)
Brokerage and insurance commissions
   
3,117
     
3,719
     
3,097
   
(16
)
 
20
 
Securities gains, net
   
8,648
     
1,525
     
341
   
467
   
347
 
Gain (loss) on trading account securities
   
211
     
(998
)
   
(105
)
 
121
   
(850
)
Impairment loss on equity securities
   
(40
)
   
(5,151
)
   
-
   
99
   
-
 
Gains on sale of loans
   
6,084
     
1,610
     
3,578
   
278
   
(55
)
Income (loss) on bank-owned life insurance
   
1,002
     
(1,184
)
   
1,777
   
185
   
(167
)
Gain on acquisition
   
1,296
     
-
     
-
   
-
   
-
 
Gain on sale of merchant services
   
-
     
5,200
     
-
   
-
   
-
 
Other noninterest income (loss)
   
2,406
     
1,315
     
(515
)
 
83
   
355
 
Total noninterest income
 
$
52,704
   
$
30,196
   
$
31,710
   
75
%
 
(5
)%

Noninterest income increased $22.5 million or 75% during 2009. The categories experiencing the largest increases were loan servicing income, securities gains and gains on sale of loans. Included in other noninterest income during 2009 was $1.1 million in payments due from the FDIC under loss share agreements associated with The Elizabeth State Bank acquisition. Noninterest income decreased $1.5 million or 5% during 2008. Included in the 2008 noninterest income was a $5.2 million gain on the sale of Heartland’s merchant bankcard processing services to TransFirst LLC and a $4.6 million impairment loss recorded on Heartland’s investment in perpetual preferred securities issued by Fannie Mae. Noninterest income during 2008 was positively affected by increased service charges and fees, loan servicing income, brokerage and insurance commissions and securities gains. Negatively impacting noninterest income for 2008 were increased losses on trading account securities, reduced gains on sale of loans and a reduction in the cash surrender value on bank-owned life insurance.

During 2009, service charges and fees increased $887,000 or 8%. Overdraft fees recorded during 2009 were $5.9 million compared to $6.0 million during 2008, a decrease of $102,000 or 2%. Interchange revenue from activity on bank debit cards, along with surcharges on ATM activity, resulted in deposit service charges and fees of $3.6 million during 2009 compared to $2.9 million during 2008, an increase of $687,000 or 24%. During 2008, service charges and fees increased $546,000 or 5%. Overdraft fees recorded during 2008 were $6.0 million compared to $5.5 million during 2007, an increase of $500,000 or 9%. Growth in the number of checking accounts resulted in the increased overdraft fees. Interchange revenue from activity on bank debit cards, along with surcharges on ATM activity, resulted in deposit service charges and fees of $2.9 million during 2008 compared to $2.0 million during 2007, an increase of $900,000 or 45%. Included in service charges and fees are the fees generated from the issuance of bank credit cards. During the fourth quarter of 2007, Heartland sold its credit card portfolio. As a result of this sale, revenue resulting from activity on these credit cards decreased by $578,000 or 81% during 2008 compared to 2007.

Loan servicing income increased $5.1 million or 110% during 2009 and $224,000 or 5% during 2008. These increases were largely due to an increase in service fees collected on the mortgage loans Heartland sold into the secondary market while retaining servicing. The portfolio of mortgage loans serviced for others by Heartland totaled $1.15 billion at December 31, 2009, compared to $712.9 million at December 31, 2008, and $636.0 million at December 31, 2007, generating mortgage loan servicing fees of $2.4 million for 2009, $1.7 million for 2008 and $1.6 million for 2007. Mortgage servicing rights income totaled $8.6 million during 2009 compared to $2.5 million during 2008 and $1.5 million during 2007. Amortization of mortgage servicing rights was $3.6 million in 2009 compared to $1.8 million during 2008 and $1.2 million during 2007. Note 9 to the financial statements contains a discussion about Heartland’s mortgage servicing rights. As fixed rate loan originations began to moderate late in 2009, we expect the level of increases in loan servicing income to be at a more moderate pace in 2010.

Trust fees decreased $133,000 or 2% during 2009 and $147,000 or 2% during 2008. A large portion of trust fees are based upon the market value of the trust assets under management, which was $1.70 billion at year-end 2009, $1.40 billion at year-end 2008 and $1.68 billion at year-end 2007. Given the increase in the market value of trust assets at year-end 2009 and assuming those values continue to grow as market conditions improve, management expects trust fees to increase during 2010.

Brokerage and insurance commissions decreased $602,000 or 16% during 2009 compared to an  increase of $622,000 or 20% during 2008. The decrease during 2009 occurred in the brokerage area as clients were uncertain about the condition of the financial markets and unwilling to make investments that could result in further losses in their portfolios. The decline at Heartland was consistent with the national average decrease of 16-20% other providers experienced during 2009. The increase during 2008 was primarily attributable to active promotion of brokerage and investment services at many of Heartland’s subsidiary banks and the receipt by Dubuque Bank and Trust Company’s insurance agency of insurance contingencies that exceeded the prior year’s amounts by nearly $160,000.

Securities gains totaled $8.6 million during 2009, $1.5 million during 2008 and $341,000 during 2007. Securities designed to outperform in a declining rate environment were sold during 2009 and replaced with securities that are expected to outperform as rates rise. As the yield curve steepened and the spreads on mortgage-backed securities in comparison to government agency securities widened during the first six months of 2008, management elected to sell a portion of its agency securities at gains and replace them with mortgage-backed securities that provided enhanced yields.

The equity securities trading portfolio recorded gains of $211,000 during 2009 compared to losses of $998,000 during 2008 and losses of $105,000 during 2007. The gains and losses recorded on this portfolio were generally reflective of the overall activity in the stock market. The losses recorded during 2008 included $270,000 recorded for further declines in the market value of Fannie Mae preferred securities that had been transferred into the trading portfolio in September 2008.

Impairment losses on securities deemed to be other than temporary totaled $40,000 during 2009 and $5.2 million during 2008. Nearly all of the loss in 2008 was attributable to Heartland’s investment in perpetual preferred securities issued by Fannie Mae, which was included in securities available for sale at a cost of $5.1 million. At September 30, 2008, these securities were written down to their trading value of $436,000 and transferred to the trading portfolio. Heartland does not hold any common or any other equity securities issued by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac.

Gains on sale of loans totaled $6.1 million during 2009, $1.6 million during 2008 and $3.6 million during 2007. Included in these gains during 2007 was the sale of Heartland’s credit card portfolio at a gain of $1.0 million. Exclusive of this one-time event, Heartland’s gains on sale of loans generally results from the sale of 15- and 30--year, fixed-rate mortgage loans into the secondary market. During low rate environments and flat yield curve environments, customers are more apt to take these long-term mortgage loans, which Heartland usually elects to sell and retain servicing on these loans. Customer demand for these types of loans had decreased during 2008 as economic conditions softened. As long-term mortgage loan rates fell below 5.00 percent during the first half of 2009, refinancing activity significantly increased on 15- and 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage loans. During 2009, Heartland banks originated $825.2 million in new and refinanced mortgage loans to 4,560 borrowers compared to $328.4 million to 1,830 borrowers in 2008. Heartland normally elects to sell these types of loans into the secondary market and retains the servicing on these loans. If market rates on fixed rate mortgage loans increase during 2010, we would expect less refinance activity and therefore lower gains on sale of loans, unless there is a significant resurgence in the housing industry.

The change in cash surrender value on bank-owned life insurance resulted in income of $1.0 million during 2009 compared to a loss of $1.2 million during 2008 and income of $1.8 million during 2007. A large portion of Heartland’s bank-owned life insurance is held in a separate account product that experienced significant market value declines during the last half of 2008.

Other noninterest income increased $1.1 million or 83% during 2009 compared to 2008. Included in the 2009 noninterest income was $1.1 million in payments due from the FDIC under loss share agreements associated with The Elizabeth State Bank acquisition. During 2008, noninterest income increased $1.8 million or 355% over 2007. From time to time, Dubuque Bank and Trust Company has acquired a 99.9% ownership interest in different limited liability companies that own certified historic structures for which historic rehabilitation tax credits apply. Amortization of the investments in these limited liability companies was recorded in the other noninterest income category in the amount of $466,000 during 2008 and $1.2 million during 2007. Excluding this amortization, other noninterest income increased $88,000 or 5% during 2008.

 

 
Noninterest Expense

The table below shows Heartland’s noninterest expense for the years indicated:

(Dollars in thousands)
   
For the years ended December 31,
 
% Change
   
2009
 
2008
 
2007
 
2009/
2008
 
2008/
2007
Salaries and employee benefits
 
$
60,465
   
$
56,752
   
$
54,568
   
7
%
 
4
%
Occupancy
   
8,992
     
9,019
     
7,902
   
-
   
14
 
Furniture and equipment
   
6,574
     
6,968
     
6,972
   
(6
)
 
-
 
Professional fees
   
9,127
     
9,876
     
8,793
   
(8
)
 
12
 
FDIC insurance assessments
   
6,578
     
1,446
     
762
   
355
   
90
 
Advertising
   
3,337
     
3,762
     
3,642
   
(11
)
 
3
 
Goodwill impairment charge
   
12,659
     
-
     
-
   
-
   
-
 
Intangible assets amortization
   
866
     
943
     
892
   
(8
)
 
6
 
Net loss on repossessed assets
   
10,847
     
827
     
1,004
   
1212
   
(18
)
Other noninterest expenses
   
13,075
     
12,646
     
13,071
   
3
   
(3
)
Total noninterest expense
 
$
132,520
   
$
102,239
   
$
97,606
   
30%
   
5%
 
Efficiency ratio1
   
73.07
%
   
68.78
%
   
67.59
%
           
                                     
1   Noninterest expense divided by the sum of net interest income and noninterest income less security gains.

For 2009, noninterest expense increased $30.3 million or 30% when compared to 2008. Exclusive of the $12.7 million goodwill impairment charge, noninterest expense increased $17.6 million or 17%. The noninterest expense categories contributing to the increase during 2009 were employee salaries and benefits, FDIC assessments and net losses on repossessed assets. For 2008, total noninterest expense increased $4.6 million or 5% when compared to 2007. The noninterest expense categories experiencing the largest increases during 2008 were salaries and employee benefits, occupancy and outside services.

The largest component of noninterest expense, salaries and employee benefits, grew by $3.7 million or 7% during 2009 and $2.2 million or 4% during 2008. Total average full-time equivalent employees were 1,024 during 2009 compared to 1,006 during 2008 and 984 during 2007. The increase in 2009 was primarily due to the opening of Minnesota Bank & Trust in April 2008 and additional staffing at New Mexico Bank & Trust to grow its customer base, at Heartland’s operations center to provide support services to the bank subsidiaries and at Galena State Bank & Trust Co. as a result of The Elizabeth State Bank acquisition. The smaller increase during 2008 was primarily related to a slowdown in expansion efforts. All three years included lower employer incentive payouts and reduced employer contributions to Heartland’s retirement plan as earnings fell short of expectations.

Occupancy expense totaled $9.0 million in 2009 and 2008 compared to $7.9 million in 2007. The increase in 2008 was primarily a result of the opening of six new banking offices during 2007 and the 2008 opening of Heartland’s 10th bank subsidiary, Minnesota Bank & Trust, and one new banking office at New Mexico Bank & Trust. Wisconsin Community Bank celebrated the opening of its Madison, Wisconsin office in March 2007. New Mexico Bank & Trust opened its third branch office in Santa Fe in April 2007. Summit Bank & Trust opened its second branch office in Thornton, Colorado in May 2007 and acquired its third branch office in Erie, Colorado in October 2007. Rocky Mountain Bank opened its second branch office in Billings, Montana, in September 2007. Arizona Bank & Trust opened its sixth branch office in Gilbert, Arizona in October 2007. Even though branch expansion efforts adversely affect short-term profitability, management believed these investments offered great potential for Heartland’s future profitability. Of Heartland’s 61 banking offices, 16 have been opened within the past five years. Of these, seven have been open three years or less.  Management believes that it generally takes at least three years for new branch offices to become profitable. Therefore, Heartland has roughly ten percent of its distribution network yet to make a meaningful contribution to earnings. During 2009, deposits in offices open five years or less increased from $255.7 million to $406.4 million or 60%.

Professional fees decreased $749,000 or 8% during 2009 compared to an increase of $1.1 million or 12% during 2008. The increase in 2008 resulted primarily from additional legal fees related to collection efforts on nonperforming loans.

FDIC assessments totaled $6.6 million during 2009 compared to $1.4 million during 2008 and $762,000 during 2007, an increase of $5.1 million or 355% for 2009 and $684,000 or 90% in 2008. The significant increase in 2009 was primarily attributable to the FDIC assessment rate change from a range of 10 to 14 basis points to a range of 12 to 16 basis points beginning in the second quarter. Also included in the FDIC assessments recorded during 2009 was $1.7 million for the emergency special assessment. Credits applied towards FDIC assessments totaled $13,000 during 2009, $256,000 during 2008 and $868,000 during 2007.

Heartland’s goodwill, which is related to acquisitions in prior years, is evaluated for impairment on an annual basis or when events or circumstances suggest impairment may have occurred. Due to the adverse economic conditions in Heartland’s Arizona and Montana markets, management engaged an independent third party valuation expert to value the goodwill of those banks. As a result of these valuations in 2009, Heartland recorded a goodwill impairment charge of $5.2 million at Arizona Bank & Trust and $7.5 million at Rocky Mountain Bank. After the impairment charge was recorded, Heartland’s goodwill totaled $27.5 million or less than 1% of total assets at December 31, 2009.

Net losses on repossessed assets totaled $10.8 million during 2009 compared to $827,000 during 2008 and $1.0 million during 2007. The 2009 net loss on repossessed assets included $8.1 million in valuation adjustments due to decreasing real estate values, particularly in our Western markets.

Other noninterest expenses increased $429,000 or 3% during 2009 and decreased $425,000 or 3% during 2008. Included in 2007 other noninterest expenses was $339,000 of remaining unamortized issuance costs expensed due to the redemption of $13.0 million of floating rate trust preferred securities. The following types of expenses are classified in the other noninterest expenses category: supplies, telephone, software maintenance, software amortization, seminars and other staff expense.

Income Taxes

Excluding the non-deductible goodwill impairment charge, Heartland’s effective tax rate was 27.2% for 2009 compared to 22.7% for 2008. Heartland’s effective tax rate during 2009 did not include any federal rehabilitation tax credits, whereas Heartland’s effective tax rate during 2008 included $570,000 in federal rehabilitation tax credits associated with Dubuque Bank and Trust Company’s ownership interests in limited liability companies that own certified historic structures. Heartland’s effective tax rate is also affected by the level of tax-exempt interest income which, as a percentage of pre-tax income exclusive of the non-deductible goodwill impairment charge, was 32.1% during 2009 compared to 50.5% during 2008. The tax-equivalent adjustment for this tax-exempt interest income was $4.5 million during 2009 compared to $3.9 million during 2008.

Income tax expense from continuing operations during 2008 decreased $6.1 million or 65% when compared to 2007, resulting in an effective tax rate of 22.7% for 2008 compared to 28.2% for 2007. Heartland’s effective tax rate is affected by the level of tax-exempt interest income which, as a percentage of pre-tax income, was 50.5% during 2008 and 19.0% during 2007. The tax-equivalent adjustment for this tax-exempt interest income was $3.9 million during 2008 compared to $3.7 million during 2007. Heartland’s effective tax rate during 2007 included a tax benefit totaling $1.4 million in federal rehabilitation tax credits associated with Dubuque Bank and Trust Company’s 99.9% ownership interest in two limited liability companies that own certified historic structures.

FINANCIAL CONDITION

At December 31, 2009, total assets had increased $382.7 million or 11% since year-end 2008. Securities represented 29% of total assets at December 31, 2009, compared to 25% at December 31, 2008. Additional securities were purchased during 2009 as deposit growth outpaced loan growth.

 

 
Lending Activities

Heartland’s major source of income is interest on loans and leases. The table below presents the composition of Heartland’s loan portfolio at the end of the years indicated:

LOAN AND LEASE PORTFOLIO
(Dollars in thousands)
   
As of December 31,
   
2009
 
2008
 
2007
 
2006
 
2005
   
Amount
 
%
 
Amount
 
%
 
Amount
 
%
 
Amount
 
%
 
Amount
 
%
Loans and leases held to maturity:
                                                                     
Commercial and commercial real estate
 
$
1,670,108
   
71.50
%
 
$
1,718,071
   
71.30
%
 
$
1,632,597
   
71.48
%
 
$
1,483,738
   
68.95
%
 
$
1,304,080
   
66.65
%
Residential mortgage
   
175,059
   
7.49
     
203,921
   
8.46
     
217,044
   
9.50
     
225,343
   
10.47
     
219,671
   
11.23
 
Agricultural and agricultural real estate
   
256,780
   
10.99
     
247,664
   
10.28
     
225,663
   
9.88
     
233,748
   
10.86
     
230,357
   
11.77
 
Consumer
   
231,709
   
9.92
     
234,061
   
9.72
     
199,518
   
8.74
     
194,652
   
9.05
     
181,019
   
9.25
 
Lease financing, net
   
2,326
   
0.10
     
5,829
   
0.24
     
9,158
   
0.40
     
14,359
   
0.67
     
21,586
   
1.10
 
Gross loans and leases held to maturity
   
2,335,982
   
100.00
%
   
2,409,546
   
100.00
%
   
2,283,980
   
100.00
%
   
2,151,840
   
100.00
%
   
1,956,713
   
100.00
%
Unearned discount
   
(2,491
)
         
(2,443
)
         
(2,107
)
         
(1,875
)
         
(1,870
)
     
Deferred loan fees
   
(2,349
)
         
(2,102
)
         
(1,706
)
         
(2,120
)
         
(1,777
)
     
Total loans and leases held to maturity
   
2,331,142
           
2,405,001
           
2,280,167
           
2,147,845
           
1,953,066
       
Loans covered under loss share agreements:
                                                                     
Commercial and commercial real estate
 
$
15,068
   
47.29
%
 
$
-
   
-
%
 
$
-
   
-
%
 
$
-
   
-
%
 
$
-
   
-
%
Residential mortgage
   
8,984
   
28.20
     
-
   
-
     
-
   
-
     
-
   
-
     
-
   
-
 
Agricultural and agricultural real estate
   
3,626
   
11.38
     
-
   
-
     
-
   
-
     
-
   
-
     
-
   
-
 
Consumer
   
4,182
   
13.13
     
-
   
-
     
-
   
-
     
-
   
-
     
-
   
-
 
Total loans covered under loss share agreements
   
31,860
   
100.00
%
   
-
   
-
%
   
-
   
-
%
   
-
   
-
%
   
-
   
-
%
Allowance for loan and lease losses
   
(41,848
)
         
(35,651
)
         
(32,993
)
         
(29,981
)
         
(27,791
)
     
Loans and leases, net
 
$
2,321,154
         
$
2,369,350
         
$
2,247,174
         
$
2,117,864
         
$
1,925,275
       


The table below sets forth the remaining maturities by loan and lease category, including loans held for sale, as of December 31, 2009:

MATURITY AND RATE SENSITIVITY OF LOANS AND LEASES 1
(Dollars in thousands)
       
Over 1 Year
       
       
Through 5 Years
 
Over 5 Years
   
   
One Year
or Less
 
Fixed
Rate
 
Floating
Rate
 
Fixed
Rate
 
Floating Rate
 
Total
Commercial and commercial real estate
 
$
727,357
 
$
523,090
 
$
242,252
 
$
51,459
 
$
141,018
 
$
1,685,176
Residential mortgage
   
65,675
   
37,364
   
21,440
   
35,432
   
41,442
   
201,353
Agricultural and agricultural real estate
   
126,741
   
66,888
   
36,143
   
9,082
   
21,552
   
260,406
Consumer
   
52,908
   
68,135
   
9,132
   
14,677
   
91,039
   
235,891
Lease financing, net
   
1,377
   
900
   
-
   
49
   
-
   
2,326
Total
 
$
974,058
 
$
696,377
 
$
308,967
 
$
110,699
 
$
295,051
 
$
2,385,152
                                     
1 Maturities based upon contractual dates

Total loans and leases, exclusive of those covered by the FDIC loss share agreements, were $2.33 billion at December 31, 2009, compared to $2.41 billion at year-end 2008, a decrease of $73.9 million or 3%. The only loan category to experience growth during 2009 was agricultural and agricultural real estate loans, which also experienced a slight decrease during the fourth quarter of 2009. Total loans and leases, exclusive of The Elizabeth State Bank acquisition, decreased $36.7 million during the fourth quarter of 2009, decreased $7.2 million during the third quarter of 2009, increased $18.6 million during the second quarter of 2009 and decreased $48.6 million during the first quarter of 2009. Heartland experienced growth in total loans and leases of $124.8 million or 5% in 2008. The Bank Subsidiaries experiencing notable loan growth during 2008 were Dubuque Bank and Trust Company, New Mexico Bank & Trust and Summit Bank & Trust.

The commercial and commercial real estate loan category continues to be the primary focus for all the Heartland subsidiary banks. These loans have comprised 71% of the loan portfolio at year-end 2009, 2008 and 2007. These loans decreased $48.0 million or 3% during 2009 compared to an increase of $85.5 million or 5% during 2008. Most of the 2008 loan growth in the commercial and commercial real estate category occurred at Dubuque Bank and Trust Company, Riverside Community Bank, New Mexico Bank & Trust, Summit Bank & Trust and Minnesota Bank & Trust.

Residential mortgage loans experienced a decrease of $28.9 million or 14% during 2009 and $13.1 million or 6% during 2008. Management anticipates that growth in our residential mortgage loan portfolio will be slower in low interest rate environments when consumers are more apt to choose 15- and 30-year fixed-rate mortgage loans which are usually sold into the secondary market. Servicing is retained on a portion of these loans so that the Bank Subsidiaries have an opportunity to continue providing their customers the excellent service they expect.

Agricultural and agricultural real estate loans outstanding increased $9.1 million or 4% during 2009 and $22.0 million or 10% during 2008. Nearly all of the growth in 2009 occurred at Dubuque Bank and Trust Company. During 2008, a majority of the increase in agricultural and agricultural real estate loans occurred at Dubuque Bank and Trust Company and Wisconsin Community Bank. Of the $256.8 million in agricultural loans, over 70% were originated at Heartland’s Midwestern banks. The agricultural loan portfolio is well diversified between grains, dairy, hogs and cattle, with approximately 32% being in grain production.

Consumer loans decreased $2.4 million or 1% during 2009 compared to an increase of $34.5 million or 17% during 2008. Growth in the consumer portfolio during 2008 occurred primarily at New Mexico Bank & Trust, Wisconsin Community Bank, Rocky Mountain Bank, Summit Bank & Trust and Citizens Finance Co. Consumer loans at Citizens Finance Co.’s comprised 21% of Heartland’s total consumer loan portfolio at December 31, 2009, and 20% as of December 31, 2008. Heartland’s expansion of its Citizens Finance Co. subsidiary has been put on hold until there is improvement in the economy. Contributing to the growth in consumer loans during 2008 was the successful origination of home equity lines of credit, primarily in Heartland’s Western banks.

Although the risk of nonpayment for any reason exists with respect to all loans, specific risks are associated with each type of loan. The primary risks associated with commercial and agricultural loans are the quality of the borrower’s management and the impact of national and regional economic factors. Additionally, risks associated with commercial and agricultural real estate loans include fluctuating property values and concentrations of loans in a specific type of real estate. Repayment on loans to individuals, including those on residential real estate, are dependent on the borrower’s continuing financial stability as well as the value of the collateral underlying these credits, and thus are more likely to be affected by adverse personal circumstances and deteriorating economic conditions. These risks are described in more detail in Item 1.A. “Risk Factors” of this Form 10-K. Heartland monitors its loan concentrations and does not believe it has excessive concentrations in any specific industry.

Heartland’s strategy with respect to the management of these types of risks, whether loan demand is weak or strong, is to encourage the Heartland banks to follow tested and prudent loan policies and underwriting practices which include: (i) granting loans on a sound and collectible basis; (ii) ensuring that primary and secondary sources of repayment are adequate in relation to the amount of the loan; (iii) administering loan policies through a board of directors; (iv) developing and maintaining adequate diversification of the loan portfolio as a whole and of the loans within each loan category; and (v) ensuring that each loan is properly documented and, if appropriate, guaranteed by government agencies and that insurance coverage is adequate.

Loans and leases secured by real estate, either fully or partially, totaled $1.8 billion or 78% of total loans and leases at December 31, 2009, and $1.9 billion or 78% of total loans and leases at December 31, 2008. More than 60% of the non-farm, nonresidential loans are owner occupied. The largest categories within Heartland’s real estate secured loans are listed below:

(Dollars in thousands)
As of December 31,
 
2009
   
2008
Residential real estate, excluding residential construction and residential lot loans
$
427,276
   
$
400,112
Industrial, manufacturing, business and commercial
 
235,929
     
387,226
Agriculture
 
197,885
     
189,982
Land development and lots
 
176,995
     
147,729
Retail
 
161,008
     
120,942
Office
 
130,479
     
98,584
Hotel, resort and hospitality
 
101,182
     
97,931
Warehousing
 
72,639
     
51,773
Food and beverage
 
61,982
     
46,931
Multi-family
 
49,884
     
47,331
Residential construction
 
46,940
     
111,670

 

 

Nonperforming Loans And Leases And Other Nonperforming Assets

The table below sets forth the amounts of nonperforming loans and leases and other nonperforming assets on the dates indicated:

NONPERFORMING ASSETS
(Dollars in thousands)
   
As of December 31,
   
2009
 
2008
 
2007
 
2006
 
2005
Not covered under loss share agreements:
                                       
Nonaccrual loans and leases
 
$
78,118
   
$
76,953
   
$
30,694
   
$
8,104
   
$
14,877
 
Loans and leases contractually past due 90 days or more
   
17
     
1,005
     
1,134
     
315
     
115
 
Total nonperforming loans and leases
   
78,135
     
77,958
     
31,828
     
8,419
     
14,992
 
Other real estate
   
30,205
     
11,750
     
2,195
     
1,575
     
1,586
 
Other repossessed assets
   
501
     
1,484
     
438
     
349
     
471
 
Total nonperforming assets not covered under loss share agreements
 
$
108,841
   
$
91,192
   
$
34,461
   
$
10,343
   
$
17,049
 
Covered under loss share agreements:
                                       
Nonaccrual loans and leases
 
$
4,170
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
-
 
Loans and leases contractually past due 90 days or more
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
 
Total nonperforming loans and leases
   
4,170
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
 
Other real estate
   
363
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
 
Other repossessed assets
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
 
Total nonperforming assets covered under loss share agreements
 
$
4,533
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
-
 
                                         
Restructured loans(1)
 
$
46,656
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
-
 
Nonperforming loans and leases not covered under loss share agreements to total loans and leases
   
3.35
%
   
3.24
%
   
1.40
%
   
0.39
%
   
0.77
%
Nonperforming assets not covered under loss share agreements to total loans and leases plus repossessed property
   
4.61
%
   
3.77
%
   
1.51
%
   
0.48
%
   
0.87
%
Nonperforming assets not covered under loss share agreements to total assets
   
2.71
%
   
2.51
%
   
1.06
%
   
0.34
%
   
0.60
%
                                         
(1) Represents accruing restructured loans performing according to their restructured terms.

Heartland regularly monitors and continues to develop systems to oversee the quality of its loan portfolio. Under Heartland’s internal loan review program, loan review officers are responsible for reviewing existing loans and leases, testing loan ratings assigned by loan officers, identifying potential problem loans and leases and monitoring the adequacy of the allowance for loan and lease losses at the Heartland banks. An integral part of our loan review program is a loan rating system, under which a rating is assigned to each loan and lease within the portfolio based on the borrower’s financial position, repayment ability, collateral position and repayment history.

Nonperforming loans, exclusive of those covered under the loss sharing agreements, were $78.1 million or 3.35% of total loans and leases at December 31, 2009, compared to $78.0 million or 3.24% of total loans and leases at December 31, 2008, and $31.8 million or 1.40% of total loans and leases at December 31, 2007. Approximately 64%, or $50.1 million, of Heartland’s nonperforming loans at December 31, 2009, were to twenty borrowers, with $15.0 million originated by Rocky Mountain Bank, $13.7 million originated by Summit Bank & Trust, $7.5 million originated by Wisconsin Community Bank, $6.5 million originated by Arizona Bank & Trust, $2.9 million originated by New Mexico Bank & Trust, $2.9 million originated by Riverside Community Bank and $1.6 million originated by Dubuque Bank and Trust. At December 31, 2008, approximately 73%, or $56.9 million, of Heartland’s nonperforming loans were to eighteen borrowers, with $21.3 million originated by Rocky Mountain Bank, $15.3 million originated by Arizona Bank & Trust, $7.7 million originated by Summit Bank & Trust, $7.1 million originated by Wisconsin Community Bank, $3.1 million originated by Riverside Community Bank, $1.4 million originated by First Community Bank and $1.0 million originated by Dubuque Bank and Trust Company. The portion of Heartland’s nonperforming loans covered by government guarantees under the SBA or USDA lending programs was $3.3 million at December 31, 2009, and $2.9 million at December 31, 2008. The allowance for loan and lease losses related to total nonperforming loans and leases was $7.9 million at December 31, 2009, $4.4 million at December 31, 2008, and $1.8 million at December 31, 2007. The allowance for loan and lease losses related to total restructured loans and leases was $5.1 million at December 31, 2009. Heartland had no restructured loans at December 31, 2008 and 2007. The industry breakdown for these nonperforming loans at December 31, 2009, was $16.7 million lots and land development, $6.5 million real estate financing provider, $6.0 million construction and development of commercial real estate, $5.8 million transportation and $4.9 million lessors of real estate. The remaining $15.1 million was distributed among seven other industries.

Other real estate owned, exclusive of assets covered under the loss sharing agreements, was $30.2 million at December 31, 2009, compared to $11.8 million at year-end 2008. A majority of the increase during 2009 was attributable to the real estate securing two loans originated at Rocky Mountain Bank, which at December 31, 2009, had a market value totaling $13.5 million, comprised of $8.9 million on a residential subdivision development project in Bozeman, Montana and $4.6 million on a condominium development project in Big Sky, Montana. Liquidation strategies have been identified for all the assets held in other real estate owned. Management plans to market these properties under an orderly liquidation process instead of under a quick liquidation process which would most likely result in discounts greater than the projected carrying costs. As a result of continued collection activities, it is likely that other real estate owned will rise during the first half of 2010.

In certain circumstances, Heartland may modify the terms of a loan to maximize the collection of amounts due. In most cases, the modification is either a reduction in interest rate, conversion to interest only payments, extension of the maturity date or a reduction in the principal balance. Generally, the borrower is experiencing financial difficulties or is expected to experience difficulties in the near-term, so concessionary modification is granted to the borrower that would otherwise not be considered. Restructured loans accrue interest as long as the borrower complies with the revised terms and conditions and has demonstrated repayment performance at a level commensurate with the modified terms over several payment cycles. Although, many of Heartland’s loan restructurings occur on a case-by-case basis in connection with ongoing loan collection processes, Heartland has also participated in certain restructuring programs for residential real estate borrowers. In general, certain residential real estate borrowers facing an interest rate reset that are current in their repayment status, are allowed to retain the lower of their existing interest rate or the market interest rate as of their interest reset date. In addition, during 2009, Heartland began participating in the U.S. Department of the Treasury Home Affordable Modification Program (“HAMP”) for loans in its servicing portfolio. HAMP gives qualifying homeowners an opportunity to refinance into more affordable monthly payments, with the U.S. Department of the Treasury compensating Heartland for a portion of the reduction in monthly amounts due from borrowers participating in this program. Heartland also utilizes a similar mortgage loan restructuring program for certain borrowers within its portfolio loans.

The Bank Subsidiaries have not been active in the origination of subprime loans. Consistent with Heartland’s community banking model, which includes meeting the legitimate credit needs within the communities served, the Bank Subsidiaries may make loans to borrowers possessing subprime characteristics if there are mitigating factors present that reduce the potential default risk of the loan.

At December 31, 2009, $104.4 million or 56% of the consumer loans originated by the Heartland banks were in home equity lines of credit (“HELOC’s”) compared to $106.0 million or 56% at December 31, 2008. Under Heartland’s policy guidelines for the underwriting of these lines of credit, the customer may receive advances of up to 90% of the value of the property securing the line, provided the customer qualifies for Tier I classification, Heartland’s internal ranking for customers considered to possess a high credit quality profile. Additionally, to qualify for advances up to 90% of the value of the property securing the line, the first mortgage must be held by Heartland and the customer must escrow for both taxes and insurance. Otherwise, HELOC’s are established at an 80% loan to value.

Allowance For Loan And Lease Losses

The process utilized by Heartland to determine the adequacy of the allowance for loan and lease losses is considered a critical accounting practice for Heartland. The allowance for loan and lease losses represents management’s estimate of identified and unidentified probable losses in the existing loan portfolio. For additional details on the specific factors considered, refer to the critical accounting policies section of this report.

The allowance for loan and lease losses at December 31, 2009, was 1.80% of loans and leases and 53.56% of nonperforming loans, compared to 1.48% of loans and leases and 45.73% of nonperforming loans at December 31, 2008, and 1.45% of loans and leases and 103.66% of nonperforming loans and leases at December 31, 2007. The provision for loan losses was $39.4 million for 2009 compared to $29.3 million for 2008 and $10.1 million for 2007. Additions to the allowance for loan and lease losses during both 2009 and 2008 were driven by a variety of factors including deterioration of economic conditions, downgrades in internal risk ratings, reductions in appraised values and higher levels of charge-offs, primarily in Heartland’s Western markets of Arizona, Montana and Colorado. Additions to the allowance for loan and lease losses during 2007 were primarily a result of the downgrading of credits as the economy softened and real estate values declined, particularly in the Phoenix market, and an increase in nonperforming loans and the impact historical losses have on the calculation of the adequacy of Heartland’s allowance for loan and lease losses. Also contributing to the growth in the allowance for loan and lease losses during both 2008 and 2007 was the expansion of the loan portfolio, particularly in the more complex commercial loan category and in the new markets Heartland has entered in which Heartland had little or no previous lending experience.

The amount of net-charge offs recorded by Heartland was $33.2 million during 2009 compared to $26.7 million during 2008. As a percentage of average loans and leases, net charge-offs were 1.38% during 2009 and 1.15% during 2008. A large portion of the net charge-offs during both years was related to commercial real estate development loans and residential lot loans. Heartland has generally recognized the charge-off on a loan when the loan was resolved, sold or transferred to other real estate owned. However, during the last half of 2008, Heartland began to recognize charge-offs on certain collateral dependent loans by writing down the loan balance to an estimated net realizable value based on the anticipated disposition value. Citizens Finance Co., Heartland's consumer finance subsidiary, experienced net charge-offs of $1.9 million during 2009 and $2.0 million during 2008. Net losses as a percentage of average loans, net of unearned, at Citizens were 4.27% for 2009 compared to 4.83% for 2008 and 4.31% for 2007. Loans with payments past due for more than thirty days at Citizens were 5.41% of gross loans at year-end 2009 compared to 6.69% of gross loans at year-end 2008 and 7.06% of gross loans at year-end 2007. Although Heartland may periodically experience a charge-off of more significance on an individual credit, management feels the credit culture at Heartland and its subsidiary banks remains solid.

 

 
The first table below summarizes activity in the allowance for loan and lease losses for the years indicated, including amounts of loans and leases charged off, amounts of recoveries, additions to the allowance charged to income, additions related to acquisitions and the ratio of net charge-offs to average loans and leases outstanding. The second table below shows Heartland’s allocation of the allowance for loan and lease losses by types of loans and leases and the amount of unallocated reserves.
 
ANALYSIS OF ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN AND LEASE LOSSES
(Dollars in thousands)
   
As of December 31,
   
2009
 
2008
 
2007
 
2006
 
2005
Allowance at beginning of year
 
$
35,651
   
$
32,993
   
$
29,981
   
$
27,791
   
$
24,973
 
Charge-offs:
                                       
   Commercial and commercial real estate
   
26,883
     
22,487
     
5,226
     
1,494
     
2,203
 
   Residential mortgage
   
1,869
     
1,010
     
237
     
227
     
75
 
   Agricultural and agricultural real estate
   
496
     
33
     
-
     
148
     
160
 
   Consumer
   
4,712
     
4,217
     
3,101
     
2,120
     
2,141
 
   Lease financing
   
1,005
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
 
Total charge-offs
   
34,965
     
27,747
     
8,564
     
3,989
     
4,579
 
Recoveries:
                                       
   Commercial and commercial real estate
   
1,073
     
226
     
983
     
1,031
     
544
 
   Residential mortgage
   
79
     
18
     
4
     
95
     
1
 
   Agricultural and agricultural real estate
   
32
     
177
     
-
     
62
     
141
 
   Consumer
   
601
     
665
     
654
     
545
     
466
 
   Lease financing
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
 
Total recoveries
   
1,785
     
1,086
     
1,641
     
1,733
     
1,152
 
Net charge-offs 1 2
   
33,180
     
26,661
     
6,923
     
2,256
     
3,427
 
Provision for loan and lease losses from continuing operations
   
39,377
     
29,319
     
10,073
     
3,883
     
6,533
 
Provision for loan and lease losses from discontinued operations
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
(5
)
   
31
 
Additions related to acquisitions
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
591
     
-
 
Reduction related to discontinued operations
   
-
     
-
     
(138
)
   
(23
)
   
-
 
Adjustment for transfer to other liabilities for unfunded commitments
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
(319
)
Allowance at end of year
 
$
41,848
   
$
35,651
   
$
32,993
   
$
29,981
   
$
27,791
 
Net charge-offs to average loans and leases
   
1.38
%
   
1.15
%
   
0.30
%
   
0.11
%
   
0.18
%
                                         
1
 
Includes net charge-offs at Citizens Finance, Heartland’s consumer finance company, of $1,942 for 2009; $2,012 for 2008; $1,646 for 2007; $1,215 for 2006; and $1,185 for 2005.
2
 
Includes net charge-offs on loans covered under loss share agreements of $1,344 for 2009.


ALLOCATION OF ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN AND LEASE LOSSES
(Dollars in thousands)
   
As of December 31,
   
2009
 
2008
 
2007
 
2006
 
2005
   
Amount
 
Loan / Lease Category to Gross Loans & Leases
 
Amount
 
Loan / Lease Category to Gross Loans & Leases
 
Amount
 
Loan / Lease Category to Gross Loans & Leases
 
Amount
 
Loan / Lease Category to Gross Loans & Leases
 
Amount
 
Loan / Lease Category to Gross Loans & Leases
Commercial and commercial real estate
 
$
33,585
 
71.50
%
 
$
23,133
 
71.30
%
 
$
22,564
 
71.48
%
 
$
18,612
 
68.95
%
 
$
17,478
 
66.65
%
Residential mortgage
   
1,691
 
7.49
     
2,007
 
8.46
     
2,345
 
9.50
     
1,688
 
10.47
     
1,593
 
11.23
 
Agricultural and agricultural real estate
   
2,852
 
10.99
     
2,013
 
10.28
     
1,868
 
9.88
     
2,075
 
10.86
     
2,526
 
11.77
 
Consumer
   
3,566
 
9.92
     
3,322
 
9.72
     
2,954
 
8.74
     
3,008
 
9.05
     
2,893
 
9.25
 
Lease financing
   
17
 
0.10
     
97
 
0.24
     
128
 
0.40
     
192
 
0.67
     
149
 
1.10
 
Unallocated
   
137
         
5,079
         
3,134
         
4,406
         
3,152
     
Total allowance for loan and lease losses
 
$
41,848
       
$
35,651
       
$
32,993
       
$
29,981
       
$
27,791
     

 

 
Securities

The composition of Heartland's securities portfolio is managed to maximize the return on the portfolio while considering the impact it has on Heartland’s asset/liability position and liquidity needs. Securities represented 29% of total assets at December 31, 2009, and 25% of total assets at December 31, 2008. Total available for sale securities as of December 31, 2009, were $1.14 billion, an increase of $263.8 million or 30% from year-end 2008. Total available for sale securities as of December 31, 2008, were $871.7 million, an increase of $189.3 million or 28% from year-end 2007. Additional securities were purchased during both years as loan growth slowed.

The composition of the securities portfolio shifted from an emphasis in U.S. government corporations and agencies to mortgage-backed securities during 2009 and 2008 as the spread on mortgage-backed securities widened in comparison to government agency securities. The percentage of mortgage-backed securities was 53% at year-end 2009 compared to 56% at year-end 2008 and 36% at year-end 2007. More than 75% of Heartland’s mortgage-backed securities are issuances of government-sponsored enterprises as of year-end 2009.

The table below presents the composition of the securities portfolio, by major category:

SECURITIES PORTFOLIO COMPOSITION
(Dollars in thousands)
 
As of December 31,
   
2009
 
2008
 
2007
   
Amount
 
% of
Portfolio
 
Amount
 
% of
Portfolio
 
Amount
 
% of
Portfolio
U.S. government corporations and agencies
 
$
279,441
 
23.78
%
 
$
195,356
 
21.62
%
 
$
255,257
 
37.10
%
Mortgage-backed securities
   
623,949
 
53.09
     
509,501
 
56.38
     
244,934
 
35.60
 
Obligations of states and political subdivisions
   
238,893
 
20.33
     
163,597
 
18.10
     
147,398
 
21.42
 
Other securities
   
32,934
 
2.80
     
35,251
 
3.90
     
40,472
 
5.88
 
Total
 
$
1,175,217
 
100.00
%
 
$
903,705
 
100.00
%
 
$
688,061
 
100.00
%

Heartland had $30.4 million of equity securities, including capital stock in the various Federal Home Loan Banks of which the Bank Subsidiaries are members and all of which were classified as available for sale at December 31, 2009.  The tables below present the maturities of the debt securities in the securities portfolio at December 31, 2009, by major category and classification as available for sale or held to maturity:

SECURITIES AVAILABLE FOR SALE PORTFOLIO MATURITIES
(Dollars in thousands)
   
Within One Year
 
After One But Within Five Years
 
After Five But Within Ten Years
 
After Ten Years
 
Total
   
Amount
 
Yield
 
Amount
 
Yield
 
Amount
 
Yield
 
Amount
 
Yield
 
Amount
 
Yield
U.S. government corporations and agencies
 
$
33,316
 
0.68
%
 
$
194,625
 
1.95
%
 
$
51,500
 
3.22
%
 
$
-
 
-
%
 
$
279,441
 
2.39
%
Mortgage-backed securities
   
57,855
 
4.32
     
509,548
 
5.80
     
33,224
 
6.03
     
11,311
 
5.47
     
611,938
 
5.66
 
Obligations of states and political subdivisions 1
   
8,533
 
5.50
     
41,550
 
5.48
     
101,824
 
5.77
     
59,943
 
6.61
     
211,850
 
5.94
 
Corporate debt securities
   
-
 
-
     
-
 
-
     
-
 
-
     
1,872
 
12.45
     
1,872
 
12.45
 
Total
 
$
99,704
 
3.20
%
 
$
745,723
 
4.77
%
 
$
186,548
 
5.11
%
 
$
73,126
 
7.47
%
 
$
1,105,101
 
4.90
%

1
 
Rates on obligations of states and political subdivisions have been adjusted to tax equivalent yields using a 34% tax.

 
SECURITIES HELD TO MATURITY PORTFOLIO MATURITIES
(Dollars in thousands)
   
Within One Year
 
After One But Within Five Years
 
After Five But Within Ten Years
 
After Ten Years
 
Total
   
Amount
 
Yield
 
Amount
 
Yield
 
Amount
 
Yield
 
Amount
 
Yield
 
Amount
 
Yield
Mortgage-backed securities
 
$
-
 
-
%
 
$
4,765
 
7.98
%
 
$
6,075
 
10.46
%
 
$
1,171
 
8.06
%
 
$
12,011
 
9.17
%
Obligations of states and political subdivisions 1
   
-
 
-
     
-
 
-
     
1,289
 
5.87
     
25,754
 
6.49
     
27,043
 
7.76
 
Total
 
$
-
 
-
%
 
$
4,765
 
7.98
%
 
$
7,364
 
9.66
%
 
$
26,925
 
7.86
%
 
$
39,054
 
8.20
%

1
 
Rates on obligations of states and political subdivisions have been adjusted to tax equivalent yields using a 34% tax.

Although there remains a net unrealized aggregate gain on the debt securities held in Heartland’s available for sale portfolio, some of those securities had market values below their amortized cost basis at December 31, 2009. Because the majority of the decline in market value is attributable to changes in interest rates and not credit quality, and because Heartland has the ability and intent to hold those investments until a recovery of fair value, which may be maturity, Heartland did not consider those investments to be other-than-temporarily impaired at December 31, 2009. See Note 5 to Heartland’s consolidated financial statements for further discussion regarding unrealized losses on Heartland’s securities portfolio.

 

 
Deposits And Borrowed Funds

The table below sets forth the distribution of Heartland’s average deposit account balances and the average interest rates paid on each category of deposits for the years indicated:

AVERAGE DEPOSITS
(Dollars in thousands)
   
For the years ended December 31,
   
2009
 
2008
 
2007
   
Average Deposits
 
Percent
of Deposits
 
Average
Interest
Rate
 
Average Deposits
 
Percent
of Deposits
 
Average
Interest
Rate
 
Average Deposits
 
Percent
of Deposits
 
Average
Interest Rate
Demand deposits
 
$
437,468
 
15.36
%
 
0.00
%
 
$
372,496
 
15.17
%
 
0.00
%
 
$
362,109
 
15.34
%
 
0.00
%
Savings
   
1,282,212
 
45.03
   
1.44
     
938,701
 
38.22
   
1.94
     
831,675
 
35.22
   
2.69
 
Time deposits less than $100,000
   
754,814
 
26.51
   
3.06
     
807,617
 
32.89
   
4.02
     
876,146
 
37.11
   
4.70
 
Time deposits of $100,000 or more
   
373,159
 
13.10
   
3.00
     
336,926
 
13.72
   
3.98
     
291,073
 
12.33
   
4.92
 
Total deposits
 
$
2,847,653
 
100.00
%
       
$
2,455,740
 
100.00
%
       
$
2,361,003
 
100.00
%
     

Total average deposits experienced an increase of $391.9 million or 16% during 2009 and $94.7 million or 4% during 2008. Exclusive of brokered deposits, total average deposits increased $423.3 million or 18% during 2009 and $126.1 million or 6% during 2008. The Elizabeth State Bank acquisition included $49.5 million in deposits, which accounted for $24.8 million of the growth in average deposits for 2009 as these deposits were only with Heartland for half of the year. All the Bank Subsidiaries experienced growth in nonbrokered deposits during 2009. For 2008, all the Bank Subsidiaries, except for Wisconsin Community Bank and Arizona Bank & Trust, experienced growth in nonbrokered deposits. During both years, this growth was weighted more heavily in Heartland’s Midwestern markets, which were responsible for nearly 58% of the growth during 2009 and 61% during 2008. The addition of new banking locations in both the West and Midwest have contributed to the growth in deposits, as well as the increased focus on attracting new deposit customers in all of the markets served by the Bank Subsidiaries.

Growth in demand and savings deposits is attributable to an increased emphasis on non-maturity core deposit products over higher-cost certificates of deposit. Additionally, commercial and retail customers have continued to build cash reserves. Average demand deposits increased $65.0 million or 17% during 2009 and $10.4 million or 3% during 2008. Management will continue to focus efforts on growing demand deposit account balances with internally-developed, companywide acquisition programs. The percentage of Heartland’s total average demand deposit balances attributable to branch banking offices in our Western markets was 59% in 2009 compared to 56% in 2008 and 58% in 2007.

Average savings deposit balances increased by $343.5 million or 37% during 2009 and $107.0 million or 13% during 2008. A large portion of the growth in savings deposits during both years was attributable to the January 2008 introduction of a new retail interest-bearing checking account product, the conversion of several retail repurchase agreement sweep accounts to a new money market sweep product initially rolled out to business depositors during the second quarter of 2008 and a promotional offer on a new money market savings product offered late in the third quarter of 2008. The percentage of Heartland’s total average savings deposits balances attributable to branch banking officers in our Western markets was 39% in 2009 compared to 40% in 2008 and 2007.

Average time deposits, excluding brokered time deposits, increased $14.8 million or 1% during 2009 and $8.7 million or 1% during 2008. The slower growth in time deposits is attributable to an increased emphasis on growing our customer base in non-maturity deposit products instead of higher-cost certificates of deposit. The Bank Subsidiaries have priced time deposit products competitively to retain existing deposit customers, but not to attract new customers. The percentage of Heartland’s total average time deposit balances attributable to branch banking offices in our Western markets was 38% during 2009 compared to 35% during 2008 and 2007.

Average brokered time deposits as a percentage of total average deposits were 2% during 2009 compared to 3% during 2008 and 5% during 2007. The reliance on brokered time deposits has decreased during the more recent years as the Heartland banks were able to grow deposits in their own markets at comparable rates.

The following table sets forth the amount and maturities of time deposits of $100,000 or more at December 31, 2009:

TIME DEPOSITS $100,000 AND OVER
(Dollars in thousands)
   
December 31, 2009
3 months or less
 
$
64,633
Over 3 months through 6 months
   
56,610
Over 6 months through 12 months
   
64,711
Over 12 months
   
146,628
   
$
332,582

Short-term borrowings generally include federal funds purchased, treasury tax and loan note options, securities sold under agreement to repurchase, short-term Federal Home Loan Bank ("FHLB") advances and discount window borrowings from the Federal Reserve Bank. These funding alternatives are utilized in varying degrees depending on their pricing and availability. As of December 31, 2009, the amount of short-term borrowings was $162.4 million compared to $210.2 million at year-end 2008, a decrease of $47.8 million or 23%, primarily due to activity in retail repurchase agreements. All of the Bank Subsidiaries provide retail repurchase agreements to their customers as a cash management tool, sweeping excess funds from demand deposit accounts into these agreements. This source of funding does not increase the reserve requirements of the Bank Subsidiaries, nor does it create an expense relating to FDIC premiums on deposits. Although the aggregate balance of these retail repurchase agreements is subject to variation, the account relationships represented by these balances are principally local. These balances were $145.6 million at December 31, 2009, compared to $170.5 million at year-end 2008, a decrease of $24.9 million or 15%. For 2008, these balances had decreased $67.4 million or 28% over the balances at year-end 2007, primarily as a result of the conversion of several retail repurchase agreement sweep accounts to a new money market sweep product rolled out to business depositors during the second quarter of 2008. At year-end 2008, short-term borrowings were $210.2 million compared to $354.1 million at year-end 2007, a decrease of $143.9 million or 41%. Management elected to utilize some additional long-term FHLB borrowings in 2008 as the interest rates on these borrowings were at lower levels than other funding alternatives, particularly brokered deposits.

Also included in short-term borrowings is the revolving credit line Heartland established with an unaffiliated bank on September 28, 2009, primarily to provide working capital to Heartland. This credit line may also be used to fund the operations of Heartland Community Development Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Heartland. Under this unsecured revolving credit line, Heartland may borrow up to $15.0 million at any one time. At December 31, 2009, $5.0 million was outstanding on this revolving credit line.During 2008, short-term borrowings included a $60.0 million revolving credit line Heartland had with third-party banks, primarily to provide working capital to Heartland and Citizens Finance Co. At December 31, 2007, a total of $15.0 million was outstanding on this credit line. On December 19, 2008, Heartland received $81.7 million through participation in the CPP. In an effort to prudently manage its funding costs until the Bank Subsidiaries were in need of additional capital to meet loan demands or an acquisition of a financial institution in an existing market was identified, Heartland used $34.0 million of the CPP funds received to extinguish the debt on its credit line and terminate the credit agreement. Heartland continues to honor the intent of the CPP by seeking high quality lending opportunities and the potential acquisition of banks in its existing markets.

 

 
The following table reflects short-term borrowings, which in the aggregate have average balances during the period greater than 30% of stockholders' equity at the end of the period:

SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS
(Dollars in thousands)
   
As of or for the years ended
December 31,
   
2009
 
2008
 
2007
Balance at end of period
 
$
162,349
 
$
210,184
 
$
354,146
Maximum month-end amount outstanding
   
205,747
   
367,991
   
354,146
Average month-end amount outstanding
   
140,289
   
230,680
   
291,289
Weighted average interest rate at year-end
   
0.58%
   
0.68%
   
2.90%
Weighted average interest rate for the year
   
0.51%
   
1.95%
   
4.62%

Other borrowings include all debt arrangements Heartland and its subsidiaries have entered into with original maturities that extend beyond one year. These borrowings were $451.4 million at December 31, 2009, compared to $437.8 million at December 31, 2008, an increase of $13.6 million or 3%. Other borrowings include wholesale repurchase agreements which totaled $135.0 million at December 31, 2009, and $120.0 million at December 31, 2008. The balances outstanding on trust preferred capital securities issued by Heartland are also included in other borrowings. A schedule of Heartland’s trust preferred offerings outstanding as of December 31, 2009, is as follows:

 (Dollars in thousands)
Amount
Issued
Issuance
Date
Interest
Rate
Interest Rate as of 12/31/09
Maturity
Date
Callable
Date
             
$
5,000
08/07/00
10.60%
10.60%
09/07/30
09/07/10
 
20,000
10/10/03
8.25%
8.25%
10/10/33
03/31/10
 
25,000
03/17/04
2.75% over Libor
3.00%
03/17/34
03/17/10
 
20,000
01/31/06
1.33% over Libor
1.61%
04/07/36
04/07/11
 
20,000
06/21/07
6.75%
6.75%
09/15/37
06/15/12
 
20,000
06/26/07
1.48% over Libor
1.74%
09/01/37
09/01/12
$
110,000
         

Also in other borrowings are the Bank Subsidiaries’ borrowings from the regional Federal Home Loan Banks. All of the Bank Subsidiaries, except for Heartland’s most recent de novo bank, Minnesota Bank & Trust, own stock in the Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago, Dallas, Des Moines, Seattle, San Francisco or Topeka, enabling them to borrow funds from their respective FHLB for short- or long-term purposes under a variety of programs. FHLB borrowings at December 31, 2009, totaled $199.1 million compared to $199.5 million at December 31, 2008, and $93.5 million at December 31, 2007. Total FHLB borrowings at December 31, 2009, had an average rate of 3.26 percent and an average maturity of 3.38 years. When considering the earliest possible call date on these advances, the average maturity is shortened to 1.86 years. For additional information regarding these borrowings see Note 12 to our consolidated financial statements.

Commitments to extend credit are agreements to lend to a customer as long as there is no violation of any condition established in the contract. Commitments generally have fixed expiration dates or other termination clauses and may require payment of a fee. Since many of the commitments are expected to expire without being drawn upon, the total commitment amounts do not necessarily represent future cash requirements. The Heartland banks evaluate each customer’s creditworthiness on a case-by-case basis. The amount of collateral obtained, if deemed necessary by the Heartland banks upon extension of credit, is based upon management’s credit evaluation of the counterparty. Collateral held varies but may include accounts receivable, inventory, property, plant and equipment and income-producing commercial properties. Standby letters of credit and financial guarantees written are conditional commitments issued by the Heartland banks to guarantee the performance of a customer to a third party. Those guarantees are primarily issued to support public and private borrowing arrangements. The credit risk involved in issuing letters of credit is essentially the same as that involved in extending loan facilities to customers.

The following table summarizes Heartland’s significant contractual obligations and other commitments as of December 31, 2009:

(Dollars in thousands)
     
Payments Due By Period
   
Total
 
Less than One Year
 
One to Three Years
 
Three to Five Years
 
More than Five Years
Contractual obligations:
                             
Time certificates of deposit
 
$
1,035,386
 
$
528,774
 
$
299,643
 
$
170,107
 
$
36,862
Long-term debt obligations
   
451,429
   
182,038
   
73,844
   
61,219
   
134,328
Operating lease obligations
   
5,382
   
906
   
1,059
   
539
   
2,878
Purchase obligations
   
5,595
   
2,182
   
3,340
   
73
   
-
Other long-term liabilities
   
2,139
   
109
   
290
   
304
   
1,436
Total contractual obligations
 
$
1,499,931
 
$
714,009
 
$
378,176
 
$
232,242
 
$
175,504
                               
Other commitments:
                             
Lines of credit
 
$
603,383
 
$
499,321
 
$
57,377
 
$
21,330
 
$
25,355
Standby letters of credit
   
26,681
   
23,766
   
2,403
   
359
   
153
Total other commitments
 
$
630,064
 
$
523,087
 
$
59,780
 
$
21,689
 
$
25,508

 

 
CAPITAL RESOURCES

Heartland’s risk-based capital ratios, which take into account the different credit risks among banks’ assets, met all capital adequacy requirements over the past three years. Tier 1 and total risk-based capital ratios were 13.53% and 15.20%, respectively, on December 31, 2009, compared to 13.26% and 14.91%, respectively, on December 31, 2008, and 9.74% and 12.48%, respectively, on December 31, 2007. At December 31, 2009, Heartland’s leverage ratio, the ratio of Tier 1 capital to total average assets, was 9.64% compared to 10.68% and 8.01% at December 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively. Heartland and its Bank Subsidiaries have been, and will continue to be, managed so they meet the well-capitalized requirements under the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action. To be categorized as well capitalized under the regulatory framework, bank holding companies and banks must maintain minimum total risk-based, Tier 1 risk-based and Tier 1 leverage ratios of 10%, 6% and 5%, respectively. The most recent notification from the FDIC categorized Heartland and each of its Bank Subsidiaries as well capitalized under the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action. There are no conditions or events since that notification that management believes have changed each institution’s category.

Heartland’s capital ratios are detailed in the table below:

RISK-BASED CAPITAL RATIOS 1
(Dollars in thousands)
   
As of and for the year ended December 31,
   
2009
 
2008
 
2007
   
Amount
 
Ratio
 
Amount
 
Ratio
 
Amount
 
Ratio
Capital Ratios:
                                   
Tier 1 capital
 
$
380,334
 
13.53
%
 
$
368,101
 
13.26
%
 
$
253,675
 
9.74
%
Tier 1 capital minimum requirement
   
112,471
 
4.00
%
   
111,017
 
4.00
%
   
104,191
 
4.00
%
Excess
 
$
267,863
 
9.53
%
 
$
257,084
 
9.26
%
 
$
149,484
 
5.74
%
Total capital
 
$
427,523
 
15.20
%
 
$
413,913
 
14.91
%
 
$
325,016
 
12.48
%
Total capital minimum requirement
   
224,943
 
8.00
%
   
222,035
 
8.00
%
   
208,382
 
8.00
%
Excess
 
$
202,580
 
7.20
%
 
$
191,878
 
6.91
%
 
$
116,634
 
4.48
%
Total risk-adjusted assets
 
$
2,811,782
       
$
2,775,436
       
$
2,604,771
     

1
 
Based on the risk-based capital guidelines of the Federal Reserve, a bank holding company is required to maintain a Tier 1 capital to risk-adjusted assets ratio of 4.00% and total capital to risk-adjusted assets ratio of 8.00%


LEVERAGE RATIOS 1
(Dollars in thousands)
   
As of and for the year ended December 31,
   
2009
 
2008
 
2007
   
Amount
 
Ratio
 
Amount
 
Ratio
 
Amount
 
Ratio
Capital Ratios:
                                   
Tier 1 capital
 
$
380,334
 
9.64
%
 
$
368,101
 
10.68
%
 
$
253,675
 
8.01
%
Tier 1 capital minimum requirement 2
   
157,830
 
4.00
%
   
137,917
 
4.00
%
   
126,644
 
4.00
%
Excess
 
$
222,504
 
5.64
%
 
$
230,184
 
6.68
%
 
$
127,031
 
4.01
%
Average adjusted assets
 
$
3,945,757
       
$
3,447,927
       
$
3,166,102
     

1
 
The leverage ratio is defined as the ratio of Tier 1 capital to average total assets.
2
 
Management of Heartland has established a minimum target leverage ratio of 4.00%. Based on Federal Reserve guidelines, a bank holding company generally is required to maintain a leverage ratio of 3.00% plus an additional cushion of at least 100 basis points.

Commitments for capital expenditures are an important factor in evaluating capital adequacy. During 2009, Heartland invested capital of $26.0 million into Heartland Community Development Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Heartland. The primary purpose of Heartland Community Development Inc. is to hold and manage certain nonperforming loans and assets to allow the liquidation of such assets at a time that is more economically advantageous. Heartland Community Development Inc. purchased other real estate with a fair value of $26.0 million from certain of the Bank Subsidiaries during 2009.

Summit Bank & Trust began operations on November 1, 2006, in the Denver, Colorado suburban community of Broomfield. The capital structure of this new bank is very similar to that used when New Mexico Bank & Trust and Arizona Bank & Trust were formed. Heartland’s initial investment was $12.0 million, or 80%, of the $15.0 million initial capital. All minority stockholders entered into a stock transfer agreement that imposes certain restrictions on the sale, transfer or other disposition of their shares in Summit Bank & Trust and requires Heartland to repurchase the shares from investors five years from the date of opening. The stock will be valued by an independent third party appraiser with the required purchase by Heartland at the appraised value, not to exceed 18x earnings, or a minimum return of 7.66% on the original investment amount, whichever is greater. Heartland pays the 7.66% minimum return to the minority stockholders annually. The obligation to repay the original investment is payable in cash or Heartland stock or a combination of cash and stock at the option of the minority stockholders. The remainder of the obligation to the minority stockholders is payable in cash or Heartland stock or a combination of cash and stock at the option of Heartland.

Minnesota Bank & Trust, Heartland’s tenth de novo, began operations on April 15, 2008, in Edina, Minnesota, located in the Minneapolis, Minnesota metropolitan area. Heartland’s initial investment was $13.2 million, or 80%, of the $16.5 million initial capital. All minority stockholders entered into a stock transfer agreement that imposes certain restrictions on the sale, transfer or other disposition of their shares in Minnesota Bank & Trust and allows, but does not require, Heartland to repurchase the shares from investors.

On December 19, 2008, Heartland received $81.7 million through participation in the CPP. Funds received by Heartland were allocated to debt reduction (including $34.0 million used to extinguish debt on Heartland’s credit line), capital maintenance at the Bank Subsidiaries and short-term investments. Heartland continues to honor the intent of the CPP by seeking high quality lending opportunities and the potential acquisition of banks in its existing markets, such as The Elizabeth State Bank acquisition completed during the third quarter of 2009.

Heartland continues to explore opportunities to expand its footprint of independent community banks. Given the current issues in the banking industry and the availability of capital via the CPP, Heartland has changed its strategic growth initiatives from de novo banks and branching to acquisitions. Attention will be focused on markets Heartland currently serves, where there would be an opportunity to grow market share, achieve efficiencies and provide greater convenience for current customers. Additionally, management has asked regulators to notify them when troubled institutions surface in Heartland’s existing markets. Future expenditures relating to expansion efforts, in addition to those identified above, are not estimable at this time.

LIQUIDITY

Liquidity refers to Heartland’s ability to maintain a cash flow, which is adequate to meet maturing obligations and existing commitments, to withstand fluctuations in deposit levels, to fund operations and to provide for customers’ credit needs. The liquidity of Heartland principally depends on cash flows from operating activities, investment in and maturity of assets, changes in balances of deposits and borrowings and its ability to borrow funds in the money or capital markets.

Investing activities from continuing operations used cash of $219.8 million during 2009 compared to $402.2 million during 2008 and $236.1 million during 2007. The proceeds from securities sales, paydowns and maturities were $437.0 million during 2009 compared to $300.8 million during 2008 and $244.2 million during 2007. Purchases of securities used cash of $683.4 million during 2009 compared to $531.3 million during 2008 and $307.8 million during 2007. The net decrease in loans and leases generated $8.2 million of cash during 2009 while the net increase in loans and leases used cash of $164.5 million during 2008 and $135.3 million during 2007. Also contributing to cash outflows from investing activities during 2007 was the $20.5 million purchase of bank-owned life insurance policies.

Financing activities from continuing operations provided cash of $311.0 million during 2009 compared to $365.3 million during 2008 and $202.6 million during 2007. A net increase in deposit accounts generated $360.5 million of cash during 2009 compared to $263.9 million during 2008 and $95.4 million during 2007. Activity in short-term borrowings used cash of $53.7 million during 2009 and $144.0 million during 2008 compared to providing cash of $80.3 million during 2007. Cash proceeds from other borrowings were $55.6 million during 2009 compared to $222.1 million during 2008 and $62.5 million during 2007. Repayments on other borrowings used cash of $42.0 million during 2009 compared to $47.8 million during 2008 and $23.4 million during 2007. Proceeds from the issuance of preferred stock associated with participation in the CPP totaled $81.7 million during 2008. The preferred shares require cumulative dividends at a rate of 5% per year for the first five years, and at a rate of 9% per year after the fifth year and rank senior to the common stock. The preferred shares may be redeemed at any time pending approval from the banking regulatory authorities.

Total cash provided by operating activities from continuing operations was $39.9 million during 2009 compared to $41.4 million during 2008 and $41.2 million during 2007. Cash used for the payment of income taxes was $7.3 million during 2009 compared to $9.4 million during 2008 and $17.3 million during 2007. The larger payment in 2007 resulted from the sale of Heartland’s fleet leasing subsidiary, ULTEA, Inc., during the fourth quarter of 2006.

The totals previously discussed did not include the cash flows related to the discontinued operations at the Broadus branch during 2007. Net cash provided from investing activities of discontinued operations of the Broadus branch was $22.6 million during 2007. During 2007, financing activities from the discontinued operations of the Broadus branch used cash of $32.5 million. Relative to operating activities, cash provided from the discontinued operations of the Broadus branch was $10,000 during 2007. For additional information regarding these discontinued operations see note 3 to Heartland’s consolidated financial statements.

Management of investing and financing activities, and market conditions, determine the level and the stability of net interest cash flows. Management attempts to mitigate the impact of changes in market interest rates to the extent possible, so that balance sheet growth is the principal determinant of growth in net interest cash flows.

Heartland’s short-term borrowing balances are dependent on commercial cash management and smaller correspondent bank relationships and, as such, will normally fluctuate. Heartland believes these balances, on average, to be stable sources of funds; however, it intends to rely on deposit growth and additional FHLB borrowings in the future.

In the event of short-term liquidity needs, the Bank Subsidiaries may purchase federal funds from each other or from correspondent banks and may also borrow from the Federal Reserve Bank. Additionally, the Bank Subsidiaries’ FHLB memberships give them the ability to borrow funds for short- and long-term purposes under a variety of programs.

At December 31, 2009, Heartland’s revolving credit agreement with an unaffiliated bank provided a maximum borrowing capacity of $15.0 million, of which $5.0 million had been borrowed. This credit agreement contains specific covenants which are listed in Note 11 to the consolidated financial statements. At December 31, 2009, Heartland was in compliance with these covenants.

The ability of Heartland to pay dividends to its stockholders is partially dependent upon dividends paid by its subsidiaries. The Heartland banks are subject to certain statutory and regulatory restrictions on the amount they may pay in dividends. To maintain acceptable capital ratios in the Heartland banks, certain portions of their retained earnings are not available for the payment of dividends. Retained earnings that could be available for the payment of dividends to Heartland under the regulatory capital requirements to remain well-capitalized totaled approximately $59.8 million as of December 31, 2009.

EFFECTS OF INFLATION

Consolidated financial data included in this report has been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Presently, these principles require reporting of financial position and operating results in terms of historical dollars, except for available for sale securities, trading securities and derivative instruments, which require reporting at fair value. Changes in the relative value of money due to inflation or recession are generally not considered.

In management’s opinion, changes in interest rates affect the financial condition of a financial institution to a far greater degree than changes in the inflation rate. While interest rates are greatly influenced by changes in the inflation rate, they do not change at the same rate or in the same magnitude as the inflation rate. Rather, interest rate volatility is based on changes in the expected rate of inflation, as well as on changes in monetary and fiscal policies. A financial institution’s ability to be relatively unaffected by changes in interest rates is a good indicator of its capability to perform in today’s volatile economic environment. Heartland seeks to insulate itself from interest rate volatility by ensuring that rate-sensitive assets and rate-sensitive liabilities respond to changes in interest rates in a similar time frame and to a similar degree. See Item 7A of this Form 10-K for a discussion on the process Heartland utilizes to mitigate market risk.


 

 
 


ITEM 7A.

QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

Market risk is the risk of loss arising from adverse changes in market prices and rates. Heartland’s market risk is comprised primarily of interest rate risk resulting from its core banking activities of lending and deposit gathering. Interest rate risk measures the impact on earnings from changes in interest rates and the effect on current fair market values of Heartland’s assets, liabilities and off-balance sheet contracts. The objective is to measure this risk and manage the balance sheet to avoid unacceptable potential for economic loss.

Management continually develops and applies strategies to mitigate market risk. Exposure to market risk is reviewed on a regular basis by the asset/liability committees at the Bank Subsidiaries and, on a consolidated basis, by Heartland’s executive management and board of directors. Darling Consulting Group, Inc. has been engaged to provide asset/liability management position assessment and strategy formulation services to Heartland and the Bank Subsidiaries. At least quarterly, a detailed review of the balance sheet risk profile is performed for Heartland and each of the Bank Subsidiaries. Included in these reviews are interest rate sensitivity analyses, which simulate changes in net interest income in response to various interest rate scenarios. This analysis considers current portfolio rates, existing maturities, repricing opportunities and market interest rates, in addition to prepayments and growth under different interest rate assumptions. Selected strategies are modeled prior to implementation to determine their effect on Heartland’s interest rate risk profile and net interest income. Although Heartland has entered into derivative financial instruments to mitigate the exposure of Heartland’s net interest income to a change in the rate environment, management does not believe that Heartland’s primary market risk exposures have changed significantly in 2009 when compared to 2008.

The core interest rate risk analysis utilized by Heartland examines the balance sheet under increasing and decreasing interest scenarios that are neither too modest nor too extreme. All rate changes are ramped over a 12-month horizon based upon a parallel shift in the yield curve and then maintained at those levels over the remainder of the simulation horizon. Using this approach, management is able to see the effect that both a gradual change of rates (year 1) and a rate shock (year 2 and beyond) could have on Heartland’s net interest income. Starting balances in the model reflect actual balances on the “as of” date, adjusted for material and significant transactions. Pro-forma balances remain static. This enables interest rate risk embedded within the existing balance sheet to be isolated from the interest rate risk often caused by growth in assets and liabilities. Due to the low interest rate environment, the simulations under a decreasing interest rate scenario were prepared using a 100 basis point shift in rates during 2009 and 2008 instead of the 200 basis point shift typically used. The most recent reviews at December 31, 2009 and 2008, provided the following results:

   
2009
       
2008
   
   
Net
Interest
Income
(in thousands)
 
%
Change
From
Base
       
Net
Interest
Income
(in thousands)
 
%
Change
From
Base
   
                           
Year 1
                         
Down 100 Basis Points
$
134,074
 
0.05
 
%
 
$
117,957
 
1.02
 
%
Base
$
134,002
         
$
116,762
       
Up 200 Basis Points
$
130,832
 
(2.37
)
%
 
$
113,969
 
(2.39
)
%
                           
Year 2
                         
Down 100 Basis Points
$
127,041
 
(5.19
)
%
 
$
115,369
 
(1.19
)
%
Base
$
130,973
 
(2.26
)
%
 
$
115,348
 
(1.21
)
%
Up 200 Basis Points
$
131,626
 
(1.77
)
%
 
$
114,905
 
(1.59
)
%

Heartland uses derivative financial instruments to manage the impact of changes in interest rates on its future interest income or interest expense. Heartland is exposed to credit-related losses in the event of nonperformance by the counterparties to these derivative instruments, but believes it has minimized the risk of these losses by entering into the contracts with large, stable financial institutions. The estimated fair market values of these derivative instruments are presented in Note 13 to the consolidated financial statements.

Heartland enters into financial instruments with off balance sheet risk in the normal course of business to meet the financing needs of its customers. These financial instruments include commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit. These instruments involve, to varying degrees, elements of credit and interest rate risk in excess of the amount recognized in the consolidated balance sheets. Commitments to extend credit are agreements to lend to a customer as long as there is no violation of any condition established in the contract. Commitments generally have fixed expiration dates and may require collateral from the borrower. Standby letters of credit are conditional commitments issued by Heartland to guarantee the performance of a customer to a third party up to a stated amount and with specified terms and conditions. These commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit are not recorded on the balance sheet until the instrument is exercised.

Heartland holds a securities trading portfolio that would also be subject to elements of market risk. These securities are carried on the balance sheet at fair value. As of December 31, 2009, these securities had a carrying value of $695,000 or 0.02% of total assets compared to $1.7 million or 0.05% of total assets at year-end 2008.


 

 
 
ITEM 8.

HEARTLAND FINANCIAL USA, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
       
December 31,
 
December 31,
   
Notes
 
2009
 
2008
ASSETS
                   
Cash and due from banks
 
4
 
$
177,619
   
$
48,977
 
Federal funds sold and other short-term investments
       
4,791
     
2,326
 
Cash and cash equivalents
       
182,410
     
51,303
 
Securities:
 
5
               
Trading, at fair value
       
695
     
1,694
 
Available for sale, at fair value (cost of $1,125,665 for 2009 and $875,143 for 2008)
       
1,135,468
     
871,686
 
    Held to maturity-at cost (fair value of $37,477 for 2009 and $26,326 for 2008)
       
39,054
     
30,325
 
Loans held for sale
       
17,310
     
19,695
 
Gross loans and leases:
 
6
               
Held to maturity
       
2,331,142
     
2,405,001
 
Loans covered by loss share agreement
 
2, 6
   
31,860
     
-
 
Allowance for loan and lease losses
 
7
   
(41,848
)
   
(35,651
)
Loans and leases, net
       
2,321,154
     
2,369,350
 
Premises, furniture and equipment, net
 
8
   
118,835
     
120,500
 
Other real estate, net
       
30,568
     
11,750
 
Goodwill
 
9
   
27,548
     
40,207
 
Other intangible assets, net
 
9
   
12,380
     
8,079
 
Cash surrender value on life insurance
       
55,516
     
54,431
 
FDIC indemnification asset
 
2
   
5,532
     
-
 
Other assets
       
66,521
     
51,248
 
TOTAL ASSETS
     
$
4,012,991
   
$
3,630,268
 
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
                   
LIABILITIES:
                   
Deposits:
 
10
               
Demand
     
$
460,645
   
$
383,061
 
Savings
       
1,554,358
     
1,128,312
 
Time
       
1,035,386
     
1,128,859
 
Total deposits
       
3,050,389
     
2,640,232
 
Short-term borrowings
 
11
   
162,349
     
210,184
 
Other borrowings
 
12
   
451,429
     
437,833
 
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
       
33,767
     
33,396
 
TOTAL LIABILITIES
       
3,697,934
     
3,321,645
 
STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY:
 
17, 18, 19
               
Preferred stock (par value $1 per share; authorized, 102,302 shares;, none issued or outstanding)
       
-
     
-
 
Series A Junior Participating preferred stock (par value $1 per share; authorized, 16,000 shares; none issued or outstanding)
       
-
     
-
 
Series B Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock (par value $1,000 per share; authorized 81,698 shares; issued 81,698 shares)
       
77,224
     
75,578
 
Common stock (par value $1 per share; authorized, 25,000,000 shares at December 31, 2009 and 20,000,000 shares at December 31, 2008; issued 16,611,671 shares)
       
16,612
     
16,612
 
Capital surplus
       
44,284
     
43,827
 
Retained earnings
       
172,487
     
177,753
 
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
       
7,107
     
(1,341
)
Treasury stock at cost (265,309 shares at December 31, 2009 and 337,181 shares at December 31, 2008)
       
(5,433
)
   
(6,826
)
TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
       
312,281
     
305,603
 
Noncontrolling interest
       
2,776
     
3,020
 
TOTAL EQUITY
       
315,057
     
308,623
 
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
     
$
4,012,991
   
$
3,630,268
 
                     
See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

 

HEARTLAND FINANCIAL USA, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
       
For the Years Ended December 31,
 
   
Notes
 
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
INTEREST INCOME:
                           
Interest and fees on loans and leases
 
6
 
$
154,887
   
$
164,349
   
$
186,795
 
Interest on securities:
                           
Taxable
       
39,782
     
31,231
     
21,937
 
Nontaxable
       
8,595
     
6,688
     
6,079
 
Interest on federal funds sold
       
2
     
299
     
387
 
Interest on interest bearing deposits in other financial institutions
       
27
     
18
     
33
 
TOTAL INTEREST INCOME
       
203,293
     
202,585
     
215,231
 
INTEREST EXPENSE:
                           
Interest on deposits
 
10
   
52,744
     
64,104
     
77,865
 
Interest on short-term borrowings
       
733
     
4,571
     
13,293
 
Interest on other borrowings
       
17,053
     
18,224
     
14,733
 
TOTAL INTEREST EXPENSE
       
70,530
     
86,899
     
105,891
 
NET INTEREST INCOME
       
132,763
     
115,686
     
109,340
 
Provision for loan and lease losses
 
7
   
39,377
     
29,319
     
10,073
 
NET INTEREST INCOME AFTER PROVISION FOR LOAN AND LEASE LOSSES
       
93,386
     
86,367
     
99,267
 
NONINTEREST INCOME:
                           
Service charges and fees
       
12,541
     
11,654
     
11,108
 
Loan servicing income
       
9,666
     
4,600
     
4,376
 
Trust fees
       
7,773
     
7,906
     
8,053
 
Brokerage and insurance commissions
       
3,117
     
3,719
     
3,097
 
Securities gains, net
       
8,648
     
1,525
     
341
 
Gain (loss) on trading account securities
       
211
     
(998
)
   
(105
)
Impairment loss on equity securities
       
(40
)
   
(5,151
)
   
-
 
Gains on sale of loans
       
6,084
     
1,610
     
3,578
 
Income (loss) on bank-owned life insurance
       
1,002
     
(1,184
)
   
1,777
 
Gain on acquisition
       
1,296
     
-
     
-
 
Gain on sale of merchant services
       
-
     
5,200
     
-
 
Other noninterest income
       
2,406
     
1,315
     
(515
)
TOTAL NONINTEREST INCOME
       
52,704
     
30,196
     
31,710
 
NONINTEREST EXPENSES:
                           
Salaries and employee benefits
 
15, 17
   
60,465
     
56,752
     
54,568
 
Occupancy
 
16
   
8,992
     
9,019
     
7,902
 
Furniture and equipment
 
8
   
6,574
     
6,968
     
6,972
 
Professional fees
       
9,127
     
9,876
     
8,793
 
FDIC insurance assessments
       
6,578
     
1,446
     
762
 
Advertising
       
3,337
     
3,762
     
3,642
 
Goodwill impairment charge
 
9
   
12,659
     
-
     
-
 
Intangible assets amortization
 
9
   
866
     
943
     
892
 
Net loss on repossessed assets
       
10,847
     
827
     
1,004
 
Other noninterest expenses
       
13,075
     
12,646
     
13,071
 
TOTAL NONINTEREST EXPENSES
       
132,520
     
102,239
     
97,606
 
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES
       
13,570
     
14,324
     
33,371
 
Income taxes
 
14
   
7,196
     
3,312
     
9,409
 
INCOME FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS
       
6,374
     
11,012
     
23,962
 
Discontinued operations:
                           
   Income from discontinued operations before income taxes
       
-
     
-
     
2,756
 
   Income taxes
       
-
     
-
     
1,085
 
INCOME FROM DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
       
-
     
-
     
1,671
 
NET INCOME
       
6,374
     
11,012
     
25,633
 
Net income available to noncontrolling interest, net of tax
       
188
     
280
     
-
 
NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO HEARTLAND
       
6,562
     
11,292
     
25,633
 
Preferred dividends and discount
       
(5,344
)
   
(178
)
   
-
 
NET INCOME AVAILABLE TO COMMON STOCKHOLDERS
     
$
1,218
   
$
11,114
   
$
25,633
 
EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE – BASIC
     
$
0.07
   
$
0.68
   
$
1.56
 
EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE – DILUTED
     
$
0.07
   
$
0.68
   
$
1.54
 
EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS-BASIC
     
$
0.07
   
$
0.68
   
$
1.45
 
EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS-DILUTED
     
$
0.07
   
$
0.68
   
$
1.44
 
CASH DIVIDENDS DECLARED PER COMMON SHARE
     
$
0.40
   
$
0.40
   
$
0.37
 
                             
See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

 
 
HEARTLAND FINANCIAL USA, INC.
             
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Dollars in thousands)              
 
For the Years Ended December 31,
 
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
Cash Flows From Operating Activities:
                     
Net income
$
6,374
   
$
11,012
   
$
25,633
 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
                     
Depreciation and amortization
 
9,036
     
9,244
     
8,938
 
Goodwill impairment charge
 
12,659
     
-
     
-
 
Provision for loan and lease losses
 
39,377
     
29,319
     
10,073
 
Provision for deferred taxes
 
(2,598
)
   
(3,311
)
   
(1,564
)
Net amortization (accretion) of premium/discount on securities
 
2,492
     
(397
)
   
(318
)
Securities gains, net
 
(8,648
)
   
(1,525
)
   
(341
)
(Increase) decrease in trading account securities
 
795
     
194
     
(320
)
Loss on impairment of equity securities
 
40
     
5,151
     
-
 
Stock based compensation
 
953
     
920
     
1,459
 
Loans originated for sale
 
(805,250
)
   
(266,936
)
   
(305,391
)
Proceeds on sales of loans
 
808,949
     
261,531
     
318,340
 
Net gain on sales of loans
 
(6,084
)
   
(1,610
)
   
(3,578
)
(Increase) decrease in accrued interest receivable
 
(933
)
   
1,460
     
221
 
Increase in prepaid expenses
 
(17,979
)
   
(193
)
   
(557
)
Decrease in accrued interest payable
 
(2,564
)
   
(3,182
)
   
(941
)
Gain on acquisition
 
(1,296
)
   
-
     
-
 
Other, net
 
4,558
     
(312
)
   
(10,499
)
Net cash provided by operating activities from continuing operations
 
39,881
     
41,365
     
41,155
 
Net cash provided by operating activities from discontinued operations
 
-
     
-
     
10
 
Net cash provided by operating activities
 
39,881
     
41,365
     
41,165
 
Cash Flows From Investing Activities:
                     
Proceeds from the sale of securities available for sale
 
198,086
     
99,265
     
35,801
 
Proceeds from the sale on securities held to maturity
 
1,659
     
-
     
-
 
Proceeds from the maturity of and principal paydowns on securities available for sale
 
234,640
     
201,022
     
208,411
 
Proceeds from the maturity of and principal paydowns on securities held to maturity
 
2,592
     
485
     
33
 
Purchase of securities available for sale
 
(670,493
)
   
(506,254
)
   
(303,596
)
Purchase of securities held to maturity
 
(12,895
)
   
(25,038
)
   
(4,205
)
Net (increase) decrease  in loans and leases
 
8,156
     
(164,481
)
   
(135,305
)
Purchase of bank-owned life insurance policies
 
-
     
-
     
(20,500
)
Capital expenditures
 
(6,596
)
   
(9,503
)
   
(20,033
)
Net cash and cash equivalents received in acquisition, net of cash paid
 
7,193
     
-
     
-
 
Net cash and cash equivalents received from sale of discontinued operations
 
-
     
-
     
2,416
 
Proceeds on sale of OREO and other repossessed assets
 
17,871
     
2,334
     
840
 
Net cash used by investing activities from continuing operations
 
(219,787
)
   
(402,170
)
   
(236,138
)
Net cash provided by discontinued operations
 
-
     
-
     
22,631
 
Net cash used by investing activities
 
(219,787
)
   
(402,170
)
   
(213,507
)
Cash Flows From Financing Activities:
                     
Net increase in demand deposits and savings accounts
 
475,702
     
274,838
     
56,897
 
Net increase (decrease) in time deposit accounts
 
(115,192
)
   
(10,905
)
   
38,459
 
Net increase (decrease) in short-term borrowings
 
(53,663
)
   
(143,962
)
   
80,263
 
Proceeds from other borrowings
 
55,552
     
222,063
     
62,502
 
Repayments of other borrowings
 
(41,956
)
   
(47,837
)
   
(23,418
)
Proceeds from issuance of preferred stock and warrant
 
-
     
81,698
     
-
 
Purchase of treasury stock
 
(236
)
   
(6,978
)
   
(9,821
)
Proceeds from issuance of common stock
 
970
     
2,358
     
2,828
 
Excess tax benefits on exercised stock options
 
18
     
462
     
896
 
Dividends paid
 
(10,182
)
   
(6,461
)
   
(6,050
)
Net cash provided by financing activities from continuing operations
 
311,013
     
365,276
     
202,556
 
Net cash used by financing activities from discontinued operations
 
-
     
-
     
(32,525
)
Net cash provided by financing activities
 
311,013
     
365,276
     
170,031
 
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
 
131,107
     
4,471
     
(2,311
)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
 
51,303
     
46,832
     
49,143
 
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF YEAR
$
182,410
   
$
51,303
   
$
46,832
 
Supplemental disclosure:
                     
Cash paid for income/franchise taxes
$
7,269
   
$
9,406
   
$
17,322
 
Cash paid for interest
$
73,094
   
$
90,081
   
$
106,832
 
Acquisitions:
                     
Net assets acquired
$
5,625
   
$
-
   
$
650
 
Cash received (paid) for acquisition
$
3,995
   
$
-
   
$
(50
)
Cash acquired from acquisition
$
3,198
   
$
-
   
$
-
 
Net cash received (paid) for acquisition
$
7,193
   
$
-
   
$
(50
)
                       
See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
 

 
 
HEARTLAND FINANCIAL USA, INC.
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
   
   
Heartland Financial USA, Inc. Stockholders’ Equity
       
     
Preferred Stock
 
Common Stock
 
Capital Surplus
 
Retained Earnings
 
Acculumulated Other Comprehensive Income (loss)
 
Treasury Stock
 
Noncontrolling Interest
 
Total
 Equity
 
Balance at  January 1, 2007
 
$
-
   
$
16,572
   
$
37,963
   
$
154,308
   
$
868
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
209,711
 
 
Net Income
                           
25,633
                             
25,633
 
 
Unrealized gain (loss) on securities available for sale
                                   
8,715
                     
8,715
 
 
Unrealized gain (loss) on derivatives arising during the period, net of realized gains of $6
                                   
672
                     
672
 
 
Reclassification adjustment for net security gains realized in net income
                                   
(341
)
                   
(341
)
 
Income taxes
                                   
(3,408
)
                   
(3,408
)
 
Comprehensive income
                                                           
31,271
 
 
Cash dividends declared:
                                                               
 
Common, $.37 per share
                           
(6,050
)
                           
(6,050
)
 
Purchase of 407,245 shares of common stock
                                           
(9,821
)
           
(9,821
)
 
Issuance of  262,181 shares of common stock
           
40
     
(2,153
)
                   
6,143
             
4,030
 
 
Commitments to issue common stock
                   
1,459
                                     
1,459
 
 
Balance at December 31, 2007
 
$
-
   
$
16,612
   
$
37,269
   
$
173,891
   
$
6,506
   
$
(3,678
)
 
$
  -
 
 
$
230,600
 
                                                                   
 
Cumulative effect from adoption of EITF 06-4
                           
(791
)
                           
(791
)
 
Balance at January 1, 2008
   
-
     
16,612
     
37,269
     
173,100
     
6,506
     
(3,678
)
      -
 
   
229,809
 
                                                                   
 
Net Income
                           
11,292
                     
(280
)
   
11,012
 
 
Unrealized gain (loss) on securities available for sale
                                   
(16,967
)
                   
(16,967
)
 
Unrealized gain (loss) on derivatives arising during the period
                                   
1,782
                     
1,782
 
 
Reclassification adjustment for net security (gains)/losses realized in net income
                                   
3,626
                     
3,626
 
 
Reclassification adjustment for net derivative gains realized in net income
                                   
(1,025
)
                   
(1,025
)
 
Income taxes
                                   
4,737
                     
4,737
 
 
Comprehensive income
                                                           
3,165
 
 
Initial capital injection by noncontrolling interest
                                                   
3,300
     
3,300
 
 
Issuance of 81,698 shares of preferred stock and warrant
   
75,400
             
6,298
                                     
81,698
 
 
Cumulative preferred dividends accrued and discount accretion
   
178
                     
(178
)
                           
-
 
 
Cash dividends declared:
                                                               
 
   Common, $.40 per share
                           
(6,461
)
                           
(6,461
)
 
Purchase of 345,627 shares of common stock
                                           
(6,978
)
           
(6,978
)
 
Issuance of  193,101 shares of common stock
                   
(660
)
                   
3,830
             
3,170
 
 
Commitments to issue common stock
                   
920
                                     
920
 
 
Balance at December 31, 2008
 
$
75,578
   
$
16,612
   
$
43,827
   
$
177,753
   
$
(1,341
)
 
$
(6,826
)
 
$
3,020
   
$
308,623
 
                                                                   
 
Net Income
                           
6,562
                     
(188
)
   
6,374
 
 
Unrealized gain (loss) on securities available for sale
                                   
21,868
                     
21,868
 
 
Unrealized gain (loss) on derivatives arising during the period
                                   
(41
)
                   
(41
)
 
Reclassification adjustment for net security (gains)/losses realized in net income
                                   
(8,608
)
                   
(8,608
)
 
Reclassification adjustment for net derivative gains realized in net income
                                   
196
                     
196
 
 
Income taxes
                                   
(4,967
)
                   
(4,967
)
 
Comprehensive income
                                                           
14,822
 
 
Purchase of noncontrolling interest
                                                   
(56
)
   
(56
)
 
Cumulative preferred dividends accrued and discount accretion
   
 
1,646
                     
(1,646
)
                           
-
 
 
Cash dividends declared:
                                                               
 
     Preferred, $50.00 per share
                           
(3,698
)
                           
(3,698
)
 
Common, $.40 per share
                           
(6,484
)
                           
(6,484
)
 
Purchase of 16,021 shares of common stock
                                           
(236
)
           
(236
)
 
Issuance of  87,893 shares of common stock
                   
(496
)
                   
1,629
             
1,133
 
 
Commitments to issue common stock
                   
953
                                     
953
 
 
Balance at December 31, 2009
 
$
77,224
   
$
16,612
   
$
44,284
   
$
172,487
   
$
7,107
   
$
(5,433
)
 
$
2,776
   
$
315,057
 
                                                                   
 
See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

ONE
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Nature of Operations - Heartland Financial USA, Inc. ("Heartland") is a multi-bank holding company primarily operating full-service banking offices serving communities in and around Dubuque and Lee Counties in Iowa; Jo Daviess, Hancock and Winnebago Counties in Illinois; Dane, Green, Sheboygan and Brown Counties in Wisconsin; Bernalillo, Curry and Santa Fe Counties in New Mexico; Maricopa County in Arizona;  Flathead, Gallatin, Jefferson, Ravalli, Sanders, Sheridan and Yellowstone Counties in Montana; Broomfield County in Colorado; and Hennepin County in Minnesota.  The principal services of Heartland, through its subsidiaries, are FDIC-insured deposit accounts and related services, and loans to businesses and individuals. The loans consist primarily of commercial and commercial real estate, agricultural and agricultural real estate and residential real estate.

Principles of Presentation - The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Heartland and its subsidiaries: Dubuque Bank and Trust Company; Galena State Bank & Trust Co.; First Community Bank; Riverside Community Bank; Wisconsin Community Bank; New Mexico Bank & Trust; Arizona Bank & Trust; Rocky Mountain Bank; Summit Bank & Trust; Minnesota  Bank & Trust; Citizens Finance Co.; DB&T Insurance, Inc.; DB&T Community Development Corp.; Heartland Community Development, Inc.; Heartland Financial Statutory Trust III; Heartland Financial Statutory Trust IV; Heartland Financial Statutory Trust V; Heartland Financial Statutory Trust VI; Heartland Financial Statutory Trust VII; and Rocky Mountain Statutory Trust I. All of Heartland’s subsidiaries are wholly-owned except for Summit Bank & Trust, of which Heartland was an 84% owner on December 31, 2009 and Minnesota Bank & Trust, of which Heartland was an 80% owner on December 31, 2009. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. The noncontrolling interest in the majority-owned subsidiaries is noted on the consolidated balance sheets and on the consolidated statements of income. Rocky Mountain Bank’s Broadus branch was sold in 2007, and the consolidated statements of income include the results of the Broadus branch as discontinued operations for 2007.

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles and prevailing practices within the banking industry. In preparing such financial statements, management is required to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the balance sheet and revenues and expenses for the period. Actual results could differ significantly from those estimates. A material estimate that is particularly susceptible to significant change relates to the determination of the allowance for loan and lease losses.

Heartland and its subsidiaries operate primarily in one segment, banking, which constitutes most of its consolidated results of operations and assets. Accordingly, the results of operations and assets for separate business segments are not presented.

Heartland evaluated subsequent events through the filing date of its annual 10-K with the SEC on March 16, 2010.

Cash and Cash Equivalents - For purposes of reporting cash flows, cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand, amounts due from banks, federal funds sold and other short-term investments. Generally, federal funds are purchased and sold for one-day periods.

Trading Securities – Trading securities represent those securities Heartland intends to actively trade and are stated at fair value with changes in fair value reflected in noninterest income.
 
Securities Available for Sale – Available for sale securities consist of those securities not classified as held to maturity or trading, which management intends to hold for indefinite periods of time or that may be sold in response to changes in interest rates, prepayments or other similar factors. Such securities are stated at fair value with any unrealized gain or loss, net of applicable income tax, reported as a separate component of stockholders’ equity. Security premiums and discounts are amortized/accreted using the interest method over the period from the purchase date to the expected maturity or call date of the related security. Declines in the fair value of investment securities available for sale (with certain exceptions for debt securities noted below) that are deemed to be other-than-temporary are charged to earnings as a realized loss, and a new cost basis for the securities is established. In evaluating other-than-temporary impairment, Heartland considers the length of time and extent to which the fair value has been less than cost, the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer, and the intent and ability of Heartland to retain its investment in the issuer for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in fair value in the near term. Declines in the fair value of debt securities below amortized cost are deemed to be other-than-temporary in circumstances where: (1) Heartland has the intent to sell a security; (2) it is more likely than not that Heartland will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis; or (3) Heartland does not expect to recover the entire amortized cost basis of the security. If Heartland intends to sell a security or if it is more likely than not that Heartland will be required to sell the security before recovery, an other-than-temporary impairment write-down is recognized in earnings equal to the difference between the security’s amortized cost basis and its fair value. If an entity does not intend to sell the security or it is not more likely than not that it will be required to sell the security before recovery, the other-than-temporary impairment write-down is separated into an amount representing credit loss, which is recognized in earnings, and an amount related to all other factors, which is recognized in other comprehensive income. Realized securities gains or losses on securities sales (using specific identification method) and declines in value judged to be other-than-temporary are included in investment securities gains (losses), net, in the consolidated statements of income.
 
Securities Held to Maturity – Securities which Heartland has the ability and positive intent to hold to maturity are classified as held to maturity. Such securities are stated at amortized cost, adjusted for premiums and discounts that are amortized/accreted using the interest method over the period from the purchase date to the maturity date of the related security. Unrealized losses determined to be other than temporary are charged to noninterest income.

Loans and Leases - Interest on loans is accrued and credited to income based primarily on the principal balance outstanding. Income from leases is recorded in decreasing amounts over the term of the contract resulting in a level rate of return on the lease investment. Heartland’s policy is to discontinue the accrual of interest income on any loan or lease when, in the opinion of management, there is a reasonable doubt as to the timely collection of the interest and principal, normally when a loan or lease is 90 days past due. When interest accruals are deemed uncollectible, interest credited to income in the current year is reversed and interest accrued in prior years is charged to the allowance for loan and lease losses. Nonaccrual loans and leases are returned to an accrual status when, in the opinion of management, the financial position of the borrower indicates that there is no longer any reasonable doubt as to the timely payment of interest and principal.

Under Heartland’s credit policies, all nonaccrual and restructured loans are defined as impaired loans. Loan impairment is measured based on the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate, except where more practical, at the observable market price of the loan or the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral dependent.

Net nonrefundable loan and lease origination fees and certain direct costs associated with the lending process are deferred and recognized as a yield adjustment over the life of the related loan or lease.

Loans Held for Sale - Loans held for sale are stated at the lower of cost or market on an aggregate basis. Gains or losses on sales are recorded in noninterest income. Direct loan origination costs and fees are deferred at origination of the loan. These deferred costs and fees are recognized in noninterest income as part of the gain or loss on sales of loans upon sale of the loan.

Mortgage Servicing and Transfers of Financial Assets – Heartland regularly sells residential mortgage loans to others on a non-recourse basis. Sold loans are not included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements. Heartland generally retains the right to service the sold loans for a fee. At December 31, 2009 and 2008, Heartland was servicing loans for others with aggregate unpaid principal balances of $1.15 billion and $712.9 million, respectively.

Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses - The allowance for loan and lease losses is maintained at a level estimated by management to provide for known and inherent risks in the loan and lease portfolios. The allowance is based upon a continuing review of past loan and lease loss experience, current economic conditions, volume growth, the underlying collateral value of the loans and leases and other relevant factors. Loans and leases which are deemed uncollectible are charged off and deducted from the allowance. Provisions for loan and lease losses and recoveries on previously charged-off loans and leases are added to the allowance.

Reserve for Unfunded Commitments—This reserve is maintained at a level that, in the opinion of management, is adequate to absorb probable losses associated with Heartland’s commitment to lend funds under existing agreements such as letters or lines of credit. Management determines the adequacy of the reserve for unfunded commitments based upon reviews of individual credit facilities, current economic conditions, the risk characteristics of the various categories of commitments and other relevant factors. The reserve is based on estimates, and ultimate losses may vary from the current estimates. These estimates are evaluated on a regular basis and, as adjustments become necessary, they are reported in earnings in the periods in which they become known. Draws on unfunded commitments that are considered uncollectible at the time funds are advanced are charged to the allowance. Provisions for unfunded commitment losses, and recoveries on loans previously charged off, are added to the reserve for unfunded commitments, which is included in the Other Liabilities section of the consolidated balance sheets.

Premises, Furniture and Equipment - Premises, furniture and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. The provision for depreciation of premises, furniture and equipment is determined by straight-line and accelerated methods over the estimated useful lives of 18 to 39 years for buildings, 15 years for land improvements and 3 to 7 years for furniture and equipment.

Other Real Estate - Other real estate represents property acquired through foreclosures and settlements of loans. Property acquired is carried at the lower of the principal amount of the loan outstanding at the time of acquisition, plus any acquisition costs, or the estimated fair value of the property, less disposal costs. The excess, if any, of such costs at the time acquired over the fair value is charged against the allowance for loan and lease losses. Subsequent write downs estimated on the basis of later valuations, gains or losses on sales and net expenses incurred in maintaining such properties are charged to other noninterest expense.

Goodwill and Intangible Assets – Intangible assets consist of goodwill, core deposit premiums, customer relationship intangibles and mortgage servicing rights. Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price of acquired subsidiaries’ net assets over their fair value. Heartland assesses goodwill for impairment annually, and more frequently if events occur which may indicate possible impairment, and assesses goodwill at both the consolidated and the bank level. Goodwill impairment is determined using a two-step process. In the first step, the fair value of a reporting unit is compared to its carrying amount, including goodwill. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount, goodwill is not considered impaired and it is not necessary to continue to step two of the impairment process. If the fair value of the reporting unit is less than the carrying amount, step two is performed, where the implied fair value of goodwill is compared to the carrying value of the reporting units’ goodwill. Implied goodwill is computed as a residual value after allocating the fair value of the reporting unit to its assets and liabilities. Heartland estimates the fair value of its reporting units using market multiples of comparable entities, including recent transactions, or a combination of market multiples and discounted cash flow methodology. These methods incorporate assumptions specific to the entity, such as the use of financial forecasts.

Core deposit premiums are amortized over eight to eighteen years on an accelerated basis. Customer relationship intangibles are amortized over 22 years on an accelerated basis. Periodically, Heartland reviews the intangible assets for events or circumstances that may indicate a change in the recoverability of the underlying basis, except mortgage servicing rights which are reviewed quarterly.

Mortgage servicing rights associated with loans originated and sold, where servicing is retained, are initially capitalized at fair value and recorded on the income statement as loan servicing income. The values of these capitalized servicing rights are amortized as an offset to the servicing revenue earned in relation to the servicing revenue expected to be earned. The carrying values of these rights are reviewed quarterly for impairment based on the calculation of their fair value as performed by an outside third party. For purposes of measuring impairment, the rights are stratified into certain risk characteristics including loan type, note rate, prepayment trends and external market factors. No valuation allowance was required as of December 31, 2009 and 2008.

Bank-Owned Life Insurance – Heartland and its subsidiaries have purchased life insurance policies on the lives of certain officers. The one-time premiums paid for the policies, which coincide with the initial cash surrender value, are recorded as an asset. Increases or decreases in the cash surrender value, other than proceeds from death benefits, are recorded as noninterest income (loss). Proceeds from death benefits first reduce the cash surrender value attributable to the individual policy and then any additional proceeds are recorded as noninterest income.

Income Taxes - Heartland and its subsidiaries file a consolidated federal income tax return and separate income or franchise tax returns as required by the various states. Heartland has a tax allocation agreement which provides that each subsidiary of the consolidated group pays a tax liability to, or receives a tax refund from Heartland, computed as if the subsidiary had filed a separate return.

Heartland recognizes certain income and expenses in different time periods for financial reporting and income tax purposes. The provision for deferred income taxes is based on an asset and liability approach and represents the change in deferred income tax accounts during the year, including the effect of enacted tax rate changes. A valuation allowance is provided to reduce deferred tax assets if their expected realization is deemed not to be more likely than not.

Derivative Financial Instruments - Heartland uses derivative financial instruments as part of its interest rate risk management including interest rate swaps, caps, floors and collars. FASB Accounting Standards Topic 815, “Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities”,  establishes accounting and reporting standards for derivative instruments, including certain derivative instruments embedded in other contracts, and for hedging activities. As required by ASC 815, Heartland records all derivatives on the balance sheet at fair value. The accounting for changes in the fair value of derivatives depends on the intended use of the derivative and the resulting designation. Derivatives used to hedge the exposure to variability in expected future cash flows, or other types of forecasted transactions, are considered cash flow hedges. To qualify for hedge accounting, Heartland must comply with the detailed rules and documentation requirements at the inception of the hedge, and hedge effectiveness is assessed at inception and periodically throughout the life of each hedging relationship. Hedge ineffectiveness, if any, is measured periodically throughout the life of the hedging relationship.

For derivatives designated as cash flow hedges, the effective portion of changes in the fair value of the derivative is initially reported in other comprehensive income and subsequently reclassified to interest income or expense when the hedged transaction affects earnings, while the ineffective portion of changes in the fair value of the derivative, if any, is recognized immediately in other noninterest income. Heartland assesses the effectiveness of each hedging relationship by comparing the cumulative changes in cash flows of the derivative hedging instrument with the cumulative changes in cash flows of the designated hedged item or transaction. No component of the change in the fair value of the hedging instrument is excluded from the assessment of hedge effectiveness.

Heartland had no fair value hedging relationships at December 31, 2009 or 2008. Derivatives not qualifying for hedge accounting, classified as free-standing derivatives, have all changes in the fair value recorded on the income statement through noninterest income.

Heartland does not use derivatives for trading or speculative purposes. Derivatives not designated as hedges are not speculative and are used to manage Heartland’s exposure to interest rate movements and other identified risks, but do not meet the strict hedge accounting requirements of ASC 815.

Treasury Stock - Treasury stock is accounted for by the cost method, whereby shares of common stock reacquired are recorded at their purchase price. When treasury stock is reissued, any difference between the sales proceeds, or fair value when issued for business combinations, and the cost is recognized as a charge or credit to capital surplus.

Trust Department Assets - Property held for customers in fiduciary or agency capacities is not included in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets, as such items are not assets of the Heartland banks.

Earnings Per Share - Amounts used in the determination of basic and diluted earnings per share for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008, and 2007 are shown in the table below:

(Dollars and number of shares in thousands)

   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
Income from continuing operations
 
$
6,374
   
$
11,012
   
$
23,962
 
Discontinued operations:
                       
  Income from discontinued operations before income taxes
   
-
     
-
     
2,756
 
  Income taxes
   
-
     
-
     
1,085
 
Income from discontinued operations
   
-
     
-
     
1,671
 
Net income
   
6,374
     
11,012
     
25,633
 
Net income attributable to non controlling interest, net of tax
   
188
     
280
     
-
 
Net income attributable to Heartland
   
6,562
     
11,292
     
25,633
 
Preferred dividends and discount
   
(5,344
)
   
(178
)
   
-
 
Net income available to common stockholders
 
$
1,218
   
$
11,114
   
$
25,633
 
Weighted average common shares outstanding for basic earnings per share
   
16,304
     
16,299
     
16,478
 
Assumed incremental common shares issued upon exercise of stock options
   
21
     
67
     
119
 
Weighted average common shares for diluted earnings per share
   
16,325
     
16,366
     
16,597
 
Earnings per common share-basic
 
$
0.07
   
$
0.69
   
$
1.56
 
Earnings per common share-diluted
   
0.07
     
0.68
     
1.54
 
Earnings per share from continuing operations-basic
   
0.07
     
0.69
     
1.45
 
Earnings per share from continuing operations-diluted
   
0.07
     
0.68
     
1.44
 
Number of antidilutive stock options excluded from diluted earnings per share computation
   
573
     
342
     
140
 

Effect of New Financial Accounting Standards Effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009, the FASB Accounting Standards Codification (“Codification” or “ASC”) is the single source of authoritative literature recognized by the FASB to be applied by nongovernmental entities in the preparation of financial statements in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”). The Codification does not change current GAAP, but is intended to simplify user access to all authoritative GAAP by providing all of the authoritative literature related to a particular topic in one place. The Codification supersedes all pre-existing accounting and reporting standards, excluding separate rules and other interpretive guidance released by the Securities and Exchange Commission. New accounting guidance is now issued in the form of Accounting Standards Updates, which update the Codification. All guidance contained in the Codification carries an equal level of authority. Heartland adopted the Codification in the period ending September 30, 2009, and as a result has replaced references to standards that were issued prior to the Codification with a description of the applicable accounting guidance. The adoption of this accounting standard did not have any impact on Heartland’s consolidated financial statements.

In December 2007, the FASB issued ASC 805, “Business Combinations”, which requires significant changes in the accounting and reporting for business acquisitions. Among many changes under this accounting standard, an acquirer will record 100 percent of all assets and liabilities at fair value at the acquisition date with changes possibly recognized in earnings, and acquisition related costs will be expensed rather than capitalized. ASC 805 applies prospectively to business combinations for which the acquisition date is on or after January 1, 2009. Heartland adopted this accounting standard on January 1, 2009, and, in the third quarter of 2009, applied its provisions to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed related to the acquisition of The Elizabeth State Bank. For a description of this acquisition, see Note 2.

In December 2007, the FASB issued ASC 810, “Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements, an amendment of ARB No. 5”, which establishes new accounting and reporting standards for the noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary. Key changes under this accounting standard are that noncontrolling interests in a subsidiary are to be reported as part of equity, losses allocated to a noncontrolling interest can result in a deficit balance, and changes in ownership interests that do not result in a change of control are accounted for as equity transactions and upon a loss of control, the resultant gain or loss is recognized and the remaining interest is remeasured at fair value on the date control is lost. Effective January 1, 2009, this accounting standard requires retroactive adoption of the presentation and disclosure requirements for existing consolidated minority interests and prospective application for any new minority interests. The presentation and disclosure requirements of ASC 810 have been applied for the current period and retrospectively for prior periods on Heartland’s accompanying consolidated financial statements.

In March 2008, the FASB issued ASC 815, “Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities”, which changes the disclosure requirements for derivative instruments and hedging activities. Entities are required to provide enhanced disclosures about (a) how and why an entity uses derivative instruments, (b) how derivative instruments and related hedged items are accounted for, and (c) how derivative instruments and related hedged items affect an entity’s financial position, financial performance and cash flows. ASC 815 is effective for all financial statements issued for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after November 15, 2008. For further detail on Heartland’s derivative instruments and hedging activities, see Note 13.

In January 2009, the FASB issued ASC 325, “Amendments to the Impairment and Interest Income Measurement Guidance of EITF issue No. 99-20”. ASC 325 amends the impairment guidance previously issued in order to achieve more consistent determination of whether an other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”) has occurred. This ASC amended previous guidance to more closely align the OTTI guidance therein in ASC 320. Retrospective application to a prior interim or annual period is prohibited. The implementation of ASC 325 in 2009 did not have a material impact on Heartland’s consolidated financial statements.

In April 2009, the FASB issued an accounting standard which amended OTTI guidance in GAAP for debt securities. This accounting standard revises the guidance for determining whether an impairment is other than temporary for debt securities, requires bifurcation of any other than temporary impairment between the amount representing credit loss and the amount related to all other factors and requires additional disclosures on other than temporary impairment of debt and equity securities. This accounting standard was effective for interim and annual reporting periods ending after June 15, 2009. Heartland adopted this accounting standard for the period ended June 30, 2009. See Note 5 for the disclosures required under this accounting standard, which was subsequently codified into ASC 320, “Investments-Debt and Equity Securities”.

In April 2009, the FASB issued an accounting standard related to disclosure about the fair value of financial instruments in interim reporting periods of publicly traded companies that were previously only required to be disclosed in annual financial statements. Heartland adopted this standard for the period ended June 30, 2009. As this accounting standard amended only the disclosure requirements about the fair value of financial statements in interim periods, the adoption had no impact on Heartland’s consolidated financial statements. See Note 21 for the disclosures required under this accounting standard, which was subsequently codified into ASC Topic 825, “Financial Instruments”.

In April 2009, the FASB issued an accounting standard which provides additional guidance on estimating fair value when the volume and level of activity for an asset or liability have significantly decreased in relation to normal market activity for the asset or liability, provides guidance on circumstances that may indicate that a transaction is not orderly and requires additional disclosures about fair value measurements in annual and interim reporting periods. Heartland adopted this accounting standard for the period ended June 30, 2009. The provisions in this accounting standard were applied prospectively and did not result in significant changes to Heartland’s valuation techniques. Furthermore, the adoption of this accounting standard, which was subsequently codified into ASC Topic 820, “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures, did not have a material impact on Heartland’s consolidated financial statements.

In May 2009, the FASB issued an accounting standard on reporting of subsequent events. The objective of this standard is to establish general standards of accounting for and disclosure of events that occur after the balance sheet date but before financial statements are issued or are available to be issued. In particular, this accounting standard sets forth the period after the balance sheet date during which management of a reporting entity should evaluate events or transactions that may occur for potential recognition or disclosure in the financial statements, the circumstances under which an entity should recognize events or transactions occurring after the balance sheet date in its financial statements and the disclosures that an entity should make about events or transactions that occurred after the balance sheet date. This accounting standard was subsequently codified into ASC Topic 855, “Subsequent Events”. This accounting standard was effective for financial statements issued for interim and annual periods ending after June 15, 2009, and did not have any impact on Heartland’s consolidated financial statements.
In June 2009, the FASB issued an accounting standard which amends current GAAP related to the accounting for transfers and servicing of financial assets and extinguishments of liabilities, including the removal of the concept of a qualifying special-purpose entity from GAAP. This new accounting standard also clarifies that a transferor must evaluate whether it has maintained effective control of a financial asset by considering its continuing direct or indirect involvement with the transferred financial asset.  This accounting standard was subsequently codified into ASC Topic 860, “Accounting for Transfers of Financial Assets”.  This accounting standard is effective as of the beginning of each reporting entity’s first annual reporting period that begins after November 15, 2009, for interim periods within that first annual reporting period and for interim and annual reporting periods thereafter and is not anticipated to have any material impact on Heartland’s consolidated financial statements.

In June 2009, the FASB issued an accounting standard which will require a qualitative rather than a quantitative analysis to determine the primary beneficiary of a variable interest entity for consolidation purposes. This accounting standard requires an enterprise to perform an analysis and ongoing reassessments to determine whether the enterprise’s variable interest or interests give it a controlling financial interest in a variable interest entity and amends certain guidance for determining whether an entity is a variable interest entity. It also requires enhanced disclosures that will provide users of financial statements with more transparent information about an enterprise’s involvement in a variable interest entity. This accounting standard was subsequently codified into ASC Topic 810, “Improvements for Financial Reporting by Enterprises Involved with Variable Interest Entities”.  This accounting standard is effective as of the beginning of each reporting entity’s first annual reporting period that begins after November 15, 2009, and for all interim reporting periods after that and is not anticipated to have any material impact on Heartland’s consolidated financial statements.

In January 2010, the FASB issued an accounting standard which requires (i) fair value disclosures by each class of assets and liabilities (generally a subset within a line item as presented in these statement of financial position) rather than major category, (ii) for items measured at fair value on a recurring basis, the amounts of significant transfers between Levels 1 and 2, and transfers into and out of Level 3, and the reasons for those transfers, including separate discussion related to the transfers into each level apart from transfers out of each level, and (iii) gross presentation of the amounts of purchases, sales, issuances and settlements in the Level 3 recurring measurement reconciliation. Additionally, the standard clarifies that a description of the valuation techniques(s) and inputs used to measure fair values is required for both recurring and nonrecurring fair value measurements. Also, if a valuation technique has changed, entities should disclose that change and the reason for the changes. This accounting standard was subsequently codified into ASC Topic 820, “Improving Disclosures about Fair Value Measurements”.  Disclosures other than the gross presentation changes in the Level 3 reconciliation are effective for the first reported period beginning after December 31, 2009. The requirement to present the Level 3 activity of purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements on a gross basis will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2010 and is not anticipated to have a material impact on Heartland’s consolidated financial statements.

Reclassifications - Certain reclassifications have been made to prior periods’ consolidated financial statements to present them on a basis comparable with the current period’s consolidated financial statements.

TWO
ACQUISITIONS

Heartland regularly explores opportunities for acquisitions of financial institutions and related businesses. Generally, management does not make a public announcement about an acquisition opportunity until a definitive agreement has been signed.

On July 2, 2009, Heartland acquired all deposits of The Elizabeth State Bank in Elizabeth, Illinois through its subsidiary Galena State Bank based in Galena, Illinois in a whole bank loss sharing transaction facilitated by the FDIC. Bank branches previously owned and operated by The Elizabeth State Bank reopened on Monday, July 6, 2009, as Galena State Bank branches. As of July 2, 2009, The Elizabeth State Bank had loans of $42.7 million and deposits of $49.3 million. Galena State Bank paid a premium of 1.0 percent to acquire all of the deposits of the failed bank. In addition to assuming all of the deposits of the failed bank, Galena State Bank agreed to purchase $53.6 million of assets. The FDIC retained the remaining assets for later disposition.

The acquired loans and other real estate owned are covered by two loss share agreements between the FDIC and Galena State Bank, which affords Galena State Bank significant loss protection. Under the loss share agreements, the FDIC will cover 80 percent of the covered loan and other real estate owned losses (referred to as covered assets) up to $10 million and 95 percent of losses in excess of that amount. The term for loss sharing on non-residential real estate losses is five years with respect to losses and eight years with respect to recoveries, while the term for loss sharing on residential real estate loans is ten years with respect to losses and recoveries. The reimbursable losses from the FDIC are based on the book value of the relevant loan as determined by the FDIC at the date of the transaction. New loans made after that date are not covered by the loss share agreements.

Galena State Bank received a $2.5 million discount on the assets acquired and paid a 1.0 percent deposit premium. The expected reimbursements under the loss share agreements were recorded as an indemnification asset at the estimated fair value of $4.4 million at the acquisition date. The estimated fair value of the loans acquired was $37.8 million and the estimated fair value of the deposits assumed was $49.5 million. In addition, a core deposit intangible of $200 thousand was recorded. A gain totaling $1.3 million resulted from the acquisition and is included as a component of noninterest income on the statement of income. The amount of the gain is equal to the amount by which the fair value of the liabilities assumed exceeded the fair value of the assets purchased.

The Elizabeth State Bank acquisition was accounted for under the acquisition method of accounting in accordance with ASC 805, “Business Combinations”. Purchased loans acquired in a business combination, which include loans purchased in The Elizabeth State Bank acquisition, are recorded at estimated fair value on their purchase date, but the purchaser can not carryover the related allowance for loan and lease losses. Purchased loans are accounted for under ASC 310-30, “Loans and Debt Securities with Deteriorated Credit Quality”, when the loans have evidence of credit deterioration since origination and it is probable at the date of the acquisition that Heartland will not collect all contractually required principal and interest payments. Evidence of credit quality deterioration at the purchase date included statistics such as past due and nonaccrual status. Generally, acquired loans that meet Heartland’s definition for nonaccrual status fall within the scope of ASC 310-30. The difference between contractually required payments at acquisition and the cash flows expected to be collected at acquisition is referred to as the nonaccretable difference which is included in the carrying value of the loans. Subsequent decreases to the expected cash flows will generally result in a provision for loan and lease losses. Subsequent increases in cash flows result in a reversal of the provision for loan and lease losses to the extent of prior charges, or a reclassification of the difference from nonaccretable to accretable with a positive impact on interest income. Further, any excess of cash flows expected at acquisition over the estimated fair value is referred to as the accretable yield and is recognized into interest income over the remaining life of the loan when there is a reasonable expectation about the amount and timing of such cash flows.

 

 
The carrying amount of the covered loans at December 31, 2009, consisted of impaired and nonimpaired loans purchased and are summarized in the following table:

(Dollars in thousands)
   
Impaired Purchased Loans
   
Non Impaired Purchased Loans
   
Total Covered Loans
 
Commercial and commercial real estate
 
$
5,102
   
$
9,966
   
$
15,068
 
Residential mortgage
   
407
     
8,577
     
8,984
 
Agricultural and agricultural real estate
   
594
     
3,032
     
3,626
 
Consumer loans
   
1,057
     
3,125
     
4,182
 
Total Covered Loans
 
$
7,160
   
$
24,700
   
$
31,860
 

On the acquisition date, the preliminary estimate of the contractually required payments receivable for all loans with evidence of credit deterioration since origination acquired in the acquisition was $13.8 million and the estimated fair value of the loans were $9.0 million. At December 31, 2009, a majority of these loans were valued based upon the liquidation value of the underlying collateral, because the expected cash flows are primarily based on the liquidation of underlying collateral and the timing and amount of the cash flows could not be reasonably estimated. There was no allowance for loan and lease losses related to these ASC 310-30 loans at December 31, 2009.

On the acquisition date, the preliminary estimate of the contractually required payments receivable for all non impaired loans acquired in the acquisition was $28.9 million and the estimated fair value of the loans was $28.7 million.

THREE
DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS

On June 22, 2007, Rocky Mountain Bank, Heartland’s Montana bank subsidiary, completed the sale of its branch banking office in Broadus, Montana. Included in the sale were $20.9 million of loans and $30.2 million of deposits. As a result of the sale, Heartland recorded a pre-tax gain of $2.4 million that is included in the line item “income from discontinued operations” on the consolidated statements of income. The results of operations of the branch have been reflected in this line item for prior periods reported. In addition, the cash flows of this branch have been presented in the consolidated statements of cash flows as cash provided or used by discontinued operations for the current and prior periods reported.

FOUR
CASH AND DUE FROM BANKS

The Heartland banks are required to maintain certain average cash reserve balances as a non-member bank of the Federal Reserve System. The reserve balance requirements at December 31, 2009 and 2008 were $2.9 million and $1.4 million, respectively
 

 
FIVE
SECURITIES

The amortized cost, gross unrealized gains and losses and estimated fair values of available for sale securities as of December 31, 2009 and 2008 are summarized as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
   
Amortized Cost
 
Gross Unrealized Gains
 
Gross Unrealized Losses
 
Estimated Fair Value
2009
                               
Securities available for sale:
                               
U.S. government corporations and agencies
 
$
277,219
   
$
2,503
   
$
(281
)
 
$
279,441
 
Mortgage-backed securities
   
608,556
     
11,765
     
(8,383
)
   
611,938
 
Obligations of states and political subdivisions
   
208,197
     
5,328
     
(1,675
)
   
211,850
 
Corporate debt securities
   
1,942
     
-
     
(70
)
   
1,872
 
Total debt securities
   
1,095,914
     
19,596
     
(10,409
)
   
1,105,101
 
Equity securities
   
29,751
     
616
     
-
     
30,367
 
Total
 
$
1,125,665
   
$
20,212
   
$
(10,409
)
 
$
1,135,468
 


(Dollars in thousands)
   
Amortized Cost
 
Gross Unrealized Gains
 
Gross Unrealized Losses
 
Estimated Fair Value
2008
                               
Securities available for sale:
                               
U.S. government corporations and agencies
 
$
190,599
   
$
4,832
   
$
(75
)
 
$
195,356
 
Mortgage-backed securities
   
505,711
     
4,688
     
(16,409
)
   
493,990
 
Obligations of states and political subdivisions
   
145,534
     
4,230
     
(981
)
   
148,783
 
Corporate debt securities
   
4,479
     
185
     
-
     
4,664
 
Total debt securities
   
846,323
     
13,935
     
(17,465
)
   
842,793
 
Equity securities
   
28,820
     
73
     
-
     
28,893
 
Total
 
$
875,143
   
$
14,008
   
$
(17,465
)
 
$
871,686
 


The amortized cost, gross unrealized gains and losses and estimated fair values of held to maturity securities as of December 31, 2009 and 2008 are summarized as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
   
Amortized Cost
 
Gross Unrealized Gains
 
Gross Unrealized Losses
 
Estimated Fair Value
2009
                               
Securities held to maturity:
                               
Mortgage-backed securities
 
$
12,011
   
$
35
   
$
(1,596
)
 
$
10,450
 
Obligations of states and political subdivisions
   
27,043
     
-
     
(16
)
   
27,027
 
Total
 
$
39,054
   
$
35
   
$
(1,612
)
 
$
37,477
 


(Dollars in thousands)
   
Amortized Cost
 
Gross Unrealized Gains
 
Gross Unrealized Losses
 
Estimated Fair Value
2008
                               
Securities held to maturity:
                               
Mortgage-backed securities
 
$
15,511
   
$
57
   
$
(4,108
)
 
$
11,460
 
Obligations of states and political subdivisions
   
14,814
     
60
     
(8
)
   
14,866
 
Total
 
$
30,325
   
$
117
   
$
(4,116
)
 
$
26,326
 

More than 75% of our mortgage-backed securities are issuances of government-sponsored enterprises.

Included in the equity securities at December 31, 2009 and 2008, were shares of stock in the Federal Home Loan Banks of Des Moines, Chicago, Dallas, San Francisco, Seattle and Topeka at an amortized cost of $15.8 million and $15.2 million, respectively. There were no unrealized gains or losses recorded on these securities as they are not readily marketable. Heartland considers its FHLB stock as a long-term investment that provides access to competitive products and liquidity. During 2009, certain Federal Home Loan Banks in the FHLB System suspended repurchases of excess capital stock. Heartland evaluates impairment in this investment based on the ultimate recoverability of the par value and at December 31, 2009, did not consider the investment to be other than temporarily impaired.
 
 

 
The amortized cost and estimated fair value of debt securities available for sale at December 31, 2009, by estimated maturity, are as follows. Expected maturities will differ from contractual maturities because issuers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without penalties.

(Dollars in thousands)
   
Amortized Cost
 
Estimated Fair Value
Securities available for sale:
           
Due in 1 year or less
 
$
99,010
 
$
99,704
Due in 1 to 5 years
   
740,108
   
745,723
Due in 5 to 10 years
   
186,163
   
186,548
Due after 10 years
   
70,633
   
73,126
Total
 
$
1,095,914
 
$
1,105,101

The amortized cost and estimated fair value of debt securities held to maturity at December 31, 2009, by estimated maturity, are as follows. Expected maturities will differ from contractual maturities because issuers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without penalties.

(Dollars in thousands)
   
Amortized Cost
 
Estimated Fair Value
Securities held to maturity:
           
Due in 1 year or less
 
$
-
 
$
-
Due in 1 to 5 years
   
4,765
   
4,442
Due in 5 to 10 years
   
7,364
   
6,208
Due after 10 years
   
26,925
   
26,827
Total
 
$
39,054
 
$
37,477

As of December 31, 2009, securities with a fair value of $494.4 million were pledged to secure public and trust deposits, short-term borrowings and for other purposes as required by law.

Gross gains and losses realized related to sales of securities for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008, and 2007, are summarized as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
   
2009
 
2008
 
2007
Securities sold:
                 
Proceeds from sales
 
$
199,745
 
$
99,265
 
$
35,801
Gross security gains
   
9,012
   
1,525
   
358
Gross security losses
   
364
   
-
   
17

During the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008, and  2007, Heartland incurred other than temporary impairment losses of $40,000, $5.2 million, and $0, respectively, on equity securities available for sale.

The following tables summarize the amount of unrealized losses, defined as the amount by which cost or amortized cost exceeds fair value, and the related fair value of investments with unrealized losses in Heartland’s securities portfolio as of December 31, 2009 and 2008. The investments were segregated into two categories: those that have been in a continuous unrealized loss position for less than 12 months and those that have been in a continuous unrealized loss position for 12 or more months. The reference point for determining how long an investment was in an unrealized loss position was December 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively.
 
Unrealized Losses on Securities Available for Sale
December 31, 2009
(Dollars in thousands)
                                           
   
Less than 12 months
 
12 months or longer
 
Total
   
Fair Value
 
Unrealized
Losses
 
Fair Value
 
Unrealized
Losses
 
Fair Value
 
Unrealized
Losses
U.S. government corporations and agencies
 
$
41,255
 
$
(281
)
 
$
-
 
$
-
   
$
41,255
 
$
(281
)
Mortgage-backed securities
   
120,270
   
(4,120
)
   
32,784
   
(4,263
)
   
153,054
   
(8,383
)
Obligations of states and political subdivisions
   
47,831
   
(1,510
)
   
2,681
   
(165
)
   
50,512
   
(1,675
)
Corporate debt securities
   
1,872
   
(70
)
   
-
   
-
     
1,872
   
(70
)
Total debt securities
   
211,228
   
(5,981
)
   
35,465
   
(4,428
)
   
246,693
   
(10,409
)
Equity securities
   
-
   
-
     
-
   
-
     
-
   
-
 
Total temporarily impaired securities
 
$
211,228
 
$
(5,981
)
 
$
35,465
 
$
(4,428
)
 
$
246,693
 
$
(10,409
)

 

 
Unrealized Losses on Securities Available for Sale
December 31, 2008
(Dollars in thousands)
                                           
   
Less than 12 months
 
12 months or longer
 
Total
   
Fair Value
 
Unrealized
Losses
 
Fair Value
 
Unrealized
Losses
 
Fair Value
 
Unrealized
Losses
U.S. government corporations and agencies
 
$
18,022
 
$
(75
)
 
$
-
 
$
-
   
$
18,022
 
$
(75
)
Mortgage-backed securities
   
231,056
   
(8,820
)
   
31,366
   
(7,589
)
   
262,422
   
(16,409
)
Obligations of states and political subdivisions
   
32,280
   
(981
)
   
-
   
-
     
32,280
   
(981
)
Corporate debt securities
   
-
   
-
     
-
   
-
     
-
   
-
 
Total debt securities
   
281,358
   
(9,876
)
   
31,366
   
(7,589
)
   
312,724
   
(17,465
)
Equity securities
   
-
   
-
     
-
   
-
     
-
   
-
 
Total temporarily impaired securities
 
$
281,358
 
$
(9,876
)
 
$
31,366
 
$
(7,589
)
 
$
312,724
 
$
(17,465
)

Unrealized losses on Heartland’s mortgage-backed securities are the result of changes in market interest rates or widening of market spreads subsequent to the initial purchase of the securities and not related to concerns regarding the underlying credit of the issuers or the underlying collateral. It is expected that the securities will not be settled at a price less than the amortized cost of the investment. Because the decline in fair value is attributable to changes in interest rates or widening market spreads and not credit quality, and because Heartland has the intent and ability to hold these investments until a market price recovery or to maturity, the unrealized losses on these investments are not considered other-than-temporarily impaired.

Unrealized losses on Heartland’s obligations of states and political subdivisions are the result of changes in market interest rates or widening of market spreads subsequent to the initial purchase of the securities. Management monitors the published credit ratings of these securities and has noted credit rating reductions in a number of these securities, primarily due to the downgrade in the credit ratings of the insurance companies providing credit enhancement to that of the issuing municipalities. Because the decline in fair value is attributable to changes in interest rates or widening market spreads due to insurance company downgrades and not underlying credit quality, and because Heartland has the intent and ability to hold these investments until a market price recovery or to maturity, the unrealized losses on these investments are not considered other-than-temporarily impaired.


 
 

 


SIX
LOANS AND LEASES

Loans and leases as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, were as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
   
2009
 
2008
Loans  and leases held to maturity:
               
Commercial and commercial real estate
 
$
1,670,108
   
$
1,718,071
 
Residential mortgage
   
175,059
     
203,921
 
Agricultural and agricultural real estate
   
256,780
     
247,664
 
Consumer
   
231,709
     
234,061
 
Gross loans held to maturity
   
2,333,656
     
2,403,717
 
Unearned discount
   
(2,491
)
   
(2,443
)
Deferred loan fees
   
(2,349
)
   
(2,102
)
Net loans held to maturity
   
2,328,816
     
2,399,172
 
Direct financing leases held to maturity:
               
Gross rents receivable
   
1,386
     
4,160
 
Estimated residual value
   
1,104
     
2,128
 
Unearned income
   
(164
)
   
(459
)
Net direct financing leases held to maturity
   
2,326
     
5,829
 
Total loans and leases held to maturity
   
2,331,142
     
2,405,001
 
Loans covered under loss share agreements:
               
Commercial and commercial real estate
 
 
15,068
   
 
-
 
Residential mortgage
   
8,984
     
-
 
Agricultural and agricultural real estate
   
3,626
     
-
 
Consumer
   
4,182
     
-
 
Total loans covered under loss share agreements
   
31,860
     
-
 
Allowance for loan and lease losses
   
(41,848
)
   
(35,651
)
Loans and leases, net
 
$
2,321,154
   
$
2,369,350
 

Direct financing leases receivable are generally short-term equipment leases. Future minimum lease payments as of December 31, 2009, were as follows: $1.5 million for 2010, $504,000 for 2011, $327,000 for 2012, $67,000 for 2013, $46,000 for 2014 and $87,000 thereafter.

Nearly 58% of the loan portfolio is concentrated in the Midwestern States of Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin and Minnesota. The remaining portion of the loan portfolio is concentrated in the Western States of New Mexico, Arizona, Montana and Colorado.

The following table presents nonperforming loans at December 31, 2009 and 2008.

(Dollars in thousands)
   
2009
 
2008
Nonaccrual loans
 
$
78,118
   
$
76,953
 
Loans and leases contractually past due 90 days or more
   
17
     
1,005
 
Total nonperforming loans
 
$
78,135
   
$
77,958
 

 
Management has determined that the majority of the impaired loans are those that have nonaccrual status, are past due 90 days or more and still accruing or have had their terms restructured in a troubled debt restructuring. The following table presents data on impaired loans as of  December 31, 2009 and 2008:

(Dollars in thousands)
 
   
2009
 
2008
Impaired loans for which a valuation allowance has been provided
 
$
98,859
   
$
42,454
 
Impaired loans for which no valuation allowance has been provided
   
25,932
     
35,204
 
Total loans determined to be impaired
 
$
124,791
   
$
77,658
 
Allowance for loan losses related to impaired loans
 
$
12,956
   
$
4,376
 

The average balances of impaired loans for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007 were $95.4 million, $45.2 million and $19.3 million, respectively. For the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, interest income which would have been recorded under the original terms of these loans and leases amounted to approximately $6.4 million, $5.1 million and $2.1 million, respectively, and interest income actually recorded amounted to approximately $1.0 million, $323,000 and $261,000, respectively.

Heartland had $62.6 million of restructured loans at December 31, 2009 of which $16.0 million were classified as nonaccrual. Commercial and agricultural loans comprised $52.3 million and $9.0 million of the restructured loans, respectively, at December 31, 2009. There were no loans and leases on a restructured status at December 31, 2008.

Loans are made in the normal course of business to directors, officers and principal holders of equity securities of Heartland. The terms of these loans, including interest rates and collateral, are similar to those prevailing for comparable transactions and do not involve more than a normal risk of collectibility. Changes in such loans during the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, were as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
   
 
2009
 
2008
Balance at beginning of year
 
$
72,187
   
$
66,045
 
Advances
   
20,397
     
26,035
 
Repayments
   
(5,734
)
   
(19,893
)
Balance, end of year
 
$
86,850
   
$
72,187
 

 

 
SEVEN
ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN AND LEASE LOSSES

Changes in the allowance for loan and lease losses for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, were as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
 
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
Balance at beginning of year
$
35,651
   
$
32,993
   
$
29,981
 
Provision for loan and lease losses
 
39,377
     
29,319
     
10,073
 
Recoveries on loans and leases previously charged off
 
1,785
     
1,086
     
1,641
 
Loans and leases charged off
 
(34,965
)
   
(27,747
)
   
(8,564
)
Reduction related to discontinued operations
 
-
     
-
     
(138
)
Balance at end of year
$
41,848
   
$
35,651
   
$
32,993
 

 
EIGHT
PREMISES, FURNITURE AND EQUIPMENT

Premises, furniture and equipment as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, were as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
   
2009
 
2008
Land and land improvements
 
$
33,984
   
$
33,354
 
Buildings and building improvements
   
95,000
     
91,504
 
Furniture and equipment
   
44,014
     
43,402
 
Total
   
172,998
     
168,260
 
Less accumulated depreciation
   
(54,163
)
   
(47,760
)
Premises, furniture and equipment, net
 
$
118,835
   
$
120,500
 

Depreciation expense on premises, furniture and equipment was $7.3 million, $7.6 million and $7.3 million for 2009, 2008, and 2007, respectively.

NINE
GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS

The following table summarizes the changes in Heartland’s goodwill for 2009 and 2008.

(Dollars in thousands)
 
       
Goodwill balance at December 31, 2007
$
40,207
 
Acquisitions and adjustments
 
-
 
Goodwill balance at December 31, 2008
 
40,207
 
Impairment charges in 2009
 
(12,659
)
Goodwill balance at December 31, 2009
$
27,548
 

Goodwill impairment charges were recorded at Rocky Mountain Bank and Arizona Bank & Trust in 2009 of $7.5 million and $5.2 million, respectively. No impairment was recorded for the years ended December 31, 2008 or 2007.
 

 
The gross carrying amount of intangible assets and the associated accumulated amortization at December 31, 2009 and 2008, are presented in the tables below.

(Dollars in thousands)
   
December 31, 2009
 
December 31, 2008
   
Gross Carrying Amount
 
Accumulated Amortization
 
Gross Carrying Amount
 
Accumulated Amortization
Amortized intangible assets
                       
Core deposit intangibles
 
$
9,957
 
$
7,856
 
$
9,757
 
$
7,092
Mortgage servicing rights
   
13,021
   
3,488
   
7,799
   
3,233
Customer relationship intangible
   
1,177
   
431
   
1,177
   
329
Total
 
$
24,155
 
$
11,775
 
$
18,733
 
$
10,654
Unamortized intangible assets
       
$
12,380
       
$
8,079
 

The following table shows the estimated future amortization expense related to intangible assets:

(Dollars in thousands)
     
Core
Deposit Intangibles
   
Mortgage Servicing
Rights
   
Customer Relationship Intangible
   
Total
Year ended:
                       
2010
 
$
487
 
$
2,847
 
$
101
 
$
3,435
2011
   
470
   
1,910
   
100
   
2,480
2012
   
441
   
1,592
   
55
   
2,088
2013
   
423
   
1,274
   
44
   
1,741
2014
   
186
   
955
   
43
   
1,184
Thereafter
   
94
   
955
   
403
   
1,452

The following table summarizes the changes in capitalized mortgage servicing rights:

(Dollars in thousands)
   
2009
 
2008
Balance, beginning of year
 
$
4,566
   
$
3,913
 
Originations
   
8,614
     
2,457
 
Amortization
   
(3,647
)
   
(1,804
)
Balance, end of year
 
$
9,533
   
$
4,566
 

Mortgage loans serviced for others were $1.15 billion and $712.9 million as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Custodial escrow balances maintained in connection with the mortgage loan servicing portfolio were approximately $5.1 million and $3.4 million as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively. The fair value of Heartland’s mortgage servicing rights was estimated at $10.0 million and $6.2 million at December 31, 2009 and  2008, respectively.
 

 
TEN
DEPOSITS

At December 31, 2009, the scheduled maturities of time certificates of deposit were as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
   
2010
 
$
528,774
2011
   
205,931
2012
   
93,712
2013
   
73,821
2014
   
96,286
Thereafter
   
36,862
   
$
1,035,386

The aggregate amount of time certificates of deposit in denominations of $100,000 or more as of December 31, 2009 and 2008 were $332.6 million and $370.6 million, respectively.

Interest expense on deposits for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, was as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
   
2009
 
2008
 
2007
Savings and money market accounts
 
$
18,407
 
$
18,176
 
$
22,404
Time certificates of deposit in denominations of $100,000 or more
   
11,202
   
13,422
   
14,307
Other time deposits
   
23,135
   
32,506
   
41,154
Interest expense on deposits
 
$
52,744
 
$
64,104
 
$
77,865

ELEVEN
SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS

Short-term borrowings as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, were as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
   
2009
 
2008
Securities sold under agreement to repurchase
 
$
145,553
 
$
170,485
Federal funds purchased
   
4,300
   
34,725
U.S. Treasury demand note
   
5,596
   
4,974
Notes payable to unaffiliated banks
   
6,900
   
-
Total
 
$
162,349
 
$
210,184

On December 19, 2008, Heartland received $81.7 million of cash in conjunction with the participation in the United States Department of the Treasury TARP Capital Purchase Program (the “TARP”). Heartland initially utilized $34.0 million of the cash to repay its revolving credit line and terminate its credit agreement with three unaffiliated banks on the same date. On September 28, 2009, Heartland established a $15.0 million revolving credit line with an unaffiliated bank, primarily to provide working capital to Heartland. This credit line may also be used to fund the operations of Heartland Community Development Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Heartland. At December 31, 2009, $5.0 million was outstanding on this revolving credit line. The agreement on this credit line contains specific financial covenants, all of which Heartland was in compliance with as of December 31, 2009:
 
 
*
Heartland will maintain regulatory capital at well capitalized levels and Citizens Finance Co. will maintain a tangible net worth to total assets ratio of 14 percent, measured quarterly.
   
*
Citizens Finance Co. will maintain a net charge-off ratio not to exceed 5.00 percent based upon the trailing four quarters, measured quarterly.
   
*
Heartland will inform the lender of any material regulatory non-compliance or written agreement concerning Heartland or any of its subsidiaries.
   
*
Within thirty days after the end of each quarter, Heartland will provide a certificate signed by the chief financial officer certifying compliance with the covenants established under the credit agreement.

All retail repurchase agreements as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, were due within twelve months.
 

 
Average and maximum balances and rates on aggregate short-term borrowings outstanding during the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008, and 2007, were as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
 
   
2009
 
2008
 
2007
 
Maximum month-end balance
 
$
205,747
 
$
367,991
 
$
354,146
 
Average month-end balance
   
140,289
   
230,680
   
291,289
 
Weighted average interest rate for the year
   
.51
%
 
1.95
%
 
4.62
%
Weighted average interest rate at year-end
   
.58
%
 
.68
%
 
2.90
%

Dubuque Bank and Trust Company is a participant in the Borrower-In-Custody of Collateral Program at the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, which provides the capability to borrow short-term funds under the Discount Window Program. Advances under this program were collateralized by a portion of the commercial loan portfolio of Dubuque Bank and Trust Company in the amount of $78.6 million at December 31, 2009, and $259.4 million at December 31, 2008. Dubuque Bank and Trust Company utilized $20.0 million of borrowings under the Discount Window Program in 2009 and 2008. There were no borrowings under the Discount Window Program outstanding at year-end 2009 and 2008.
 
TWELVE
OTHER BORROWINGS

Other borrowings at December 31, 2009 and 2008, were as follows:

 
(Dollars in thousands)
   
2009
 
2008
Advances from the FHLB; weighted average call dates at December 31, 2009 and 2008 were October 2011 and  June 2010, respectively; and weighted average interest rates were 3.26% and 3.73%, respectively
 
$
199,088
 
$
199,545
Wholesale repurchase agreements; weighted average call dates at December 31, 2009 and 2008 were May 2011 and October 2010, respectively; and weighted average interest rates were 2.89% and 2.92%, respectively
   
135,000
   
120,000
Trust preferred securities
   
113,405
   
113,405
Obligations to repurchase minority interest shares of Summit Bank & Trust
   
2,890
   
3,382
Community Development Block Grant Loan Program with the City of Dubuque
   
-
   
300
Contracts payable for purchase of real estate and other assets
   
1,046
   
1,201
Total
 
$
451,429
 
$
437,833

The Heartland banks are members of the Federal Home Loan Bank ("FHLB") of Des Moines, Chicago, Dallas, San Francisco, Seattle and Topeka. The advances from the FHLB are collateralized by the banks’ investment in FHLB stock of $10.7 million and $11.0 million at December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Additional collateral is provided by the banks’ one-to-four unit residential mortgages, commercial and agricultural mortgages and securities pledged totaling $958.3 million at December 31, 2009 and $1.05 billion at December 31, 2008. Callable advances from the FHLB totaled $77.5 million as of December 31, 2009, at a weighted average rate of 3.20% and are included in the table above at their call date.

Heartland has entered into various wholesale repurchase agreements with balances totaling $135.0 million and $120.0 million at December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Heartland has utilized three counterparties and at December 31, 2009 had $75.0 million with JP Morgan Chase Bank, $50.0 million with Citigroup Global Markets and $10.0 million with Barclays Capital. The maturity schedule of the wholesale repurchase agreements with JP Morgan Chase as of December 31, 2009 was $50.0 million in November of 2010 and $25.0 million in January of 2013. The maturity schedule of the wholesale repurchase agreements with Citigroup Global Markets as of December 31, 2009 was $15.0 million in January of 2014, $15.0 million in April of 2015 and $20.0 million in April of 2018. The maturity schedule of the wholesale repurchase agreements with Barclays Capital as of December 31, 2009 was $10.0 million in January of 2013. Except for $15.0 million for which pricing is fixed, all of the wholesale repurchase agreements have repricing dates during 2009 through 2013.

Heartland currently has six wholly-owned trust subsidiaries that were formed to issue trust preferred securities. The proceeds from the offerings were used to purchase junior subordinated debentures from Heartland. The proceeds are being used for general corporate purposes. Heartland has the option to shorten the maturity date to a date not earlier than the callable dates listed in the schedule below. Heartland may not shorten the maturity date without prior approval of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, if required. Prior redemption is permitted under certain circumstances, such as changes in tax or regulatory capital rules. In connection with these offerings, the balance of deferred issuance costs included in other assets was $271,000 as of December 31, 2009. These deferred costs are amortized on a straight-line basis over the life of the debentures. The majority of the interest payments are due quarterly.

A schedule of Heartland’s trust preferred offerings outstanding as of December 31, 2009, is as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
         
Name
Amount
Issued
Interest
Rate
Interest Rate as of 12/31/09
Maturity
Date
Callable
Date
             
Rocky Mountain Statutory Trust I
$
5,155
10.60%
10.60%
09/07/2030
09/07/2010
Heartland Financial Statutory Trust III
 
20,619
8.25%
8.25%
10/10/2033
03/31/2010
Heartland Financial Statutory Trust IV
 
25,774
2.75% over Libor
3.00%
03/17/2034
03/17/2010
Heartland Financial Statutory Trust V
 
20,619
1.33% over Libor
1.61%
04/07/2036
04/07/2011
Heartland Financial Statutory Trust VI
 
20,619
6.75%
6.75%
09/15/2037
06/15/2012
Heartland Financial Statutory Trust VII
 
20,619
1.48% over Libor
1.74%
09/01/2037
09/01/2012
 
$
113,405
       

For regulatory purposes, $101.7 million and $102.3 million of the capital securities qualified as Tier 1 capital for regulatory purposes as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

Heartland has an irrevocable obligation to repurchase the common shares of Summit Bank & Trust owned by minority shareholders on November 1, 2011. The minority shareholders are obligated to sell their shares to Heartland on that same date. The stock will be valued by an independent third party appraiser with the required purchase by Heartland at the appraised value, not to exceed 18x earnings, or a minimum return of 7.66% on the original investment amount, whichever is greater. The obligation to repay the original investment is payable in cash or Heartland stock or a combination of cash and stock at the option of the minority shareholder. The remainder of the obligation to the minority shareholders is payable in cash or Heartland stock or a combination of cash and stock at the option of Heartland. Additionally, the minority shareholders may put their shares to Heartland at any time prior to November 1, 2011, at an amount equal to the amount originally paid plus 7.66%. The amount of the obligation as of December 31, 2009, included in other borrowings is $2.9 million.

Heartland repurchased the common shares of Arizona Bank & Trust owned by minority shareholders in August of 2008 for $3.7 million in cash. Heartland had an agreement with the minority shareholders of Arizona Bank & Trust that required Heartland to repurchase the common shares five years from the date of opening at a minimum rate of 6% on the original investment amount.

Future payments at December 31, 2009, for other borrowings follow in the table below. Callable FHLB advances and wholesale repurchase agreements are included in the table at their call date.

(Dollars in thousands)
       
2010
 
$
182,038
2011
   
13,429
2012
   
60,415
2013
   
41,105
2014
   
20,114
Thereafter
   
134,328
   
$
451,429

THIRTEEN
DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

On occasion, Heartland uses derivative financial instruments as part of its interest rate risk management, including interest rate swaps, caps, floors and collars. Heartland’s objectives in using derivatives are to add stability to its net interest margin and to manage its exposure to movements in interest rates.

To reduce the potentially negative impact a downward movement in interest rates would have on its interest income, Heartland entered into the following two transactions during 2006 and 2005. On April 4, 2006, Heartland entered into a three-year interest rate collar transaction with a notional amount of $50.0 million. The collar was effective on April 4, 2006, and matured on April 4, 2009. Heartland was the payer on prime at a cap strike rate of 8.95% and the counterparty is the payer on prime at a floor strike rate of 7.00%. As of December 31, 2008, the fair market value of this collar transaction was recorded as an asset of $636,000.

On September 19, 2005, Heartland entered into a five-year interest rate collar transaction on a notional amount of $50.0 million. The collar has an effective date of September 21, 2005, and a maturity date of September 21, 2010. Heartland is the payer on prime at a cap strike rate of 9.00% and the counterparty is the payer on prime at a floor strike rate of 6.00%. As of December 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008, the fair market value of this collar transaction was recorded as an asset of $1.0 million and $2.1 million, respectively.

For accounting purposes, the two collar transactions above are designated as cash flow hedges of the overall changes in the cash flows above and below the collar strike rates associated with interest payments on certain of Heartland’s prime-based loans that reset whenever prime changes. The hedged transactions for the two hedging relationships are designated as the first prime-based interest payments received by Heartland each calendar month during the term of the collar that, in aggregate for each period, are interest payments on principal from specified portfolios equal to the notional amount of the collar.

Prepayments in the hedged loan portfolios are treated in a manner consistent with the guidance in ASC 815-20-25, “Cash Flow Hedges: Using the First-Payments-Received Technique in Hedging the Variable Interest Payments on a Group of Non-Benchmark-Rate-Based Loans”, which allows the designated forecasted transactions to be the variable, prime-rate-based interest payments on a rolling portfolio of prepayable interest-bearing loans using the first-payments-received technique, thereby allowing interest payments from loans that prepay to be replaced with interest payments from new loan originations. Based on Heartland’s assessments, both at inception and throughout the life of the hedging relationship, it is probable that sufficient prime-based interest receipts will exist through the maturity dates of the collars.

To reduce the potentially negative impact an upward movement in interest rates would have on its net interest income, Heartland entered into the following four cap transactions. For accounting purposes, these four cap transactions are designated as cash flow hedges of the changes in cash flows attributable to changes in LIBOR, the benchmark interest rate being hedged, above the cap strike rate associated with the interest payments made on $65.0 million of Heartland’s subordinated debentures (issued in connection with the trust preferred securities of Heartland Financial Statutory Trust IV, V and VII) that reset quarterly on a specified reset date. At inception, Heartland asserted that the underlying principal balance will remain outstanding throughout the hedge transaction making it probable that sufficient LIBOR-based interest payments will exist through the maturity date of the caps.

The first transaction executed was a twenty-three month interest rate cap transaction on a notional amount of $20.0 million. The cap had an effective date of February 1, 2007, and matured on January 7, 2009. Should 3-month LIBOR exceed 5.5% on a reset date, the counterparty would have paid Heartland the amount of interest that exceeded the amount owed on the debt at the cap LIBOR rate of 5.5%. The floating-rate subordinated debentures contained an interest deferral feature that is mirrored in the cap transaction. As of December 31, 2008, this cap transaction had no fair value.

The second transaction executed on February 1, 2007, was a twenty-five month interest rate cap transaction on a notional amount of $25.0 million to reduce the potentially negative impact an upward movement in interest rates would have on its net interest income. The cap has an effective date of February 1, 2007, and matured on March 17, 2009. Should 3-month LIBOR have exceeded 5.5% on a reset date, the counterparty would have paid Heartland the amount of interest that exceeded the amount owed on the debt at the cap LIBOR rate of 5.5%. The floating-rate subordinated debentures contained an interest rate deferral feature that is mirrored in the cap transaction. As of December 31, 2008, this cap transaction had no fair value.

The third transaction executed on January 15, 2008, was a fifty-five month interest rate cap transaction on a notional amount of $20.0 million to reduce the potentially negative impact an upward movement in interest rates would have on its net interest income. The cap has an effective date of January 15, 2008, and a maturity date of September 1, 2012. Should 3-month LIBOR exceed 5.12% on a reset date, the counterparty will pay Heartland the amount of interest that exceeds the amount owed on the debt at the cap LIBOR rate of 5.12%. The floating-rate subordinated debentures contain an interest rate deferral feature that is mirrored in the cap transaction. As of December 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008, the fair market value of this cap transaction was recorded as an asset of $75,000 and $46,000, respectively. Upon the execution of the second swap transaction discussed below, this cap transaction was converted to a mark to market hedge. During 2009, the mark to market adjustment on this cap transaction was recorded as a gain of $39,000.

The fourth transaction executed on March 27, 2008, was a twenty-eight month interest rate cap transaction on a notional amount of $20.0 million to reduce the potentially negative impact an upward movement in interest rates would have on its net interest income. The cap has an effective date of January 7, 2009, and a maturity date of April 7, 2011. Should 3-month LIBOR exceed 5.5% on a reset date, the counterparty will pay Heartland the amount of interest that exceeds the amount owed on the debt at the cap LIBOR rate of 5.5%. The floating-rate subordinated debentures contain an interest rate deferral feature that is mirrored in the cap transaction. As of December 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008, the fair market value of this cap transaction was recorded as an asset of $3,000 and $8,000, respectively. Upon the execution of the third swap transaction discussed below, this cap transaction was converted to a mark to market hedge. During 2009, the mark to market adjustment on this cap transaction was recorded as a loss of $2,000.

In addition to the four cap transactions, Heartland entered into the following three forward-starting interest rate swap transactions to effectively convert $65.0 million of its variable interest rate subordinated debentures (issued in connection with the trust preferred securities of Heartland Financial Statutory Trust IV, V and VII) to fixed interest rate debt. For accounting purposes, these three swap transactions are designated as cash flow hedges of the changes in cash flows attributable to changes in LIBOR, the benchmark interest rate being hedged, associated with the interest payments made on $65.0 million of Heartland’s subordinated debentures (issued in connection with the trust preferred securities of Heartland Financial Statutory Trust IV, V and VII) that reset quarterly on a specified reset date. At inception, Heartland asserted that the underlying principal balance will remain outstanding throughout the hedge transaction making it probable that sufficient LIBOR-based interest payments will exist through the maturity date of the swaps.

The first swap transaction was executed on January 28, 2009, on a notional amount of $25.0 million with an effective date of March 17, 2010, and an expiration date of March 17, 2014. Under this interest rate swap contract, Heartland will pay a fixed interest rate of 2.58% and receive a variable interest rate equal to 3-month LIBOR. As of December 31, 2009, the fair value of this swap transaction was recorded as an asset of $136,000.

The second swap transaction was executed on February 4, 2009, on a notional amount of $20.0 million with an effective date of January 7, 2010, and an expiration date of January 7, 2020. Under this interest rate swap contract, Heartland will pay a fixed interest rate of 3.35% and receive a variable interest rate equal to 3-month LIBOR. As of December 31, 2009, the fair value of this swap transaction was recorded as an asset of $885,000.

The third swap transaction was executed on February 4, 2009, on a notional amount of $20.0 million with an effective date of March 1, 2010, and an expiration date of March 1, 2017. Under this interest rate swap contract, Heartland will pay a fixed interest rate of 3.22% and receive a variable interest rate equal to 3-month LIBOR. As of December 31, 2009, the fair value of this swap transaction was recorded as an asset of $403,000.

For the collar, cap and swap transactions described above, the effective portion of changes in the fair values of the derivatives is initially reported in other comprehensive income (outside of earnings) and subsequently reclassified to earnings (interest income on loans or interest expense on borrowings) when the hedged transactions affect earnings. Ineffectiveness resulting from the hedging relationship, if any, is recorded as a gain or loss in earnings as part of noninterest income. Heartland uses the “Hypothetical Derivative Method” described in ASC 815-20-25, “Cash Flow Hedges: Assessing and Measuring the Effectiveness of a Purchased Option Used in a Cash Flow Hedge”, for its quarterly prospective and retrospective assessments of hedge effectiveness, as well as for measurements of hedge ineffectiveness. All components of the derivative instruments’ change in fair value were included in the assessment of hedge effectiveness. No ineffectiveness was recognized for the cash flow hedge transactions for the years ended December 31, 2008 and 2009.

At the inception of the September 19, 2005 collar transaction, Heartland designated separate proportions of the $50.0 million collar in qualifying cash flow hedging relationships. Designation of a proportion of a derivative instrument is discussed in ASC 815, which states that “Either all or a proportion of a derivative may be designated as the hedging instrument. The proportion must be expressed as a percentage of the entire derivative so that the profile of risk exposures in the hedging portion of the derivative is the same as that in the entire derivative.” Consistent with that guidance, Heartland identified four different proportions of the $50.0 million collar and documented four separate hedging relationships based on those proportions. Although only one collar was executed with an external party, Heartland established four distinct hedging relationships for various proportions of the collar and designated them against hedged transactions specifically identified at each of four different subsidiary banks. Because each proportion of the collar was designated against hedged transactions specified at different subsidiary banks, the hedging relationship for one proportion of the collar could fail hedge accounting (or have hedge ineffectiveness), without affecting the separate hedging relationships established for other proportions of the collar that were designated against hedged transactions at other subsidiary banks. Effectiveness of each hedging relationship is assessed and measured independently of the other hedging relationships.

A portion of the September 19, 2005 collar transaction did not meet the retrospective hedge effectiveness test at March 31, 2008. The failure was on a portion of the $50.0 million notional amount. That portion, $14.3 million, was designated as a cash flow hedge of the overall changes in the cash flows above and below the collar strike rates associated with interest payments on certain of Dubuque Bank and Trust Company’s prime-based loans. The failure of this hedge relationship was caused by paydowns, which reduced the designated loan pool from $14.3 million to $9.6 million. This hedge failure resulted in the recognition of a gain of $198 thousand during the quarter ended March 31, 2008, which consists of the mark to market gain on this portion of the collar transaction of $212 thousand and a reclass of unrealized losses out of other comprehensive income to earnings of $14 thousand. During 2009, the mark to market adjustment on this portion of the collar transaction was recorded as a loss of $304,000.

A portion of the September 19, 2005 collar transaction also did not meet the retrospective hedge effectiveness test at June 30, 2007. The failure was on a portion of the $50.0 million notional amount. That portion, $14.3 million, was designated as a cash flow hedge of the overall changes in the cash flows above and below the collar strike rates associated with interest payments on certain of Rocky Mountain Bank’s prime-based loans. The failure of this hedge relationship was caused by the sale of its Broadus branch, which reduced the designated loan pool from $14.3 million to $7.5 million. On August 17, 2007, the $14.3 million portion of the September 19, 2005 collar transaction was redesignated and met the requirements for hedge accounting treatment. The fair value of this portion of the collar transaction was zero on the redesignation date. The redesignated collar transaction did not meet the retrospective hedge effectiveness test at December 31, 2008. The failure of the redesignated hedge was caused by paydowns, which reduced the redesignated loan pool from $14.3 million to $10.4 million. During 2009, the mark to market adjustment on this portion of the collar transaction was recorded as a loss of $292,000.

An additional portion of the September 19, 2005 collar transaction did not meet the retrospective hedge effectiveness test at March 31, 2009. The failure was on a portion of the $50.0 million notional amount. That portion, $14.3 million, was designated as a cash flow hedge of the overall changes in the cash flows above and below the collar strike rates associated with interest payments on certain of New Mexico Bank & Trust’s prime-based loans. The failure of this hedge relationship was caused by paydowns, which reduced the designated loan pool from $14.3 million to $11.6 million. This hedge failure resulted in the recognition of a gain of $68 thousand during the first quarter of 2009, which consists of the mark to market loss on this portion of the collar transaction of $64 thousand and a reclass of unrealized gains out of other comprehensive income to earnings of $132 thousand. During the second, third and fourth quarters of 2009, the mark to market adjustment on this collar transaction was recorded as a loss of $226,000.

The final portion of the September 19, 2005 collar transaction did not meet the retrospective hedge effectiveness test at June 30, 2009. The failure was on a portion of the $50.0 million notional amount. That portion, $7.2 million, was designated as a cash flow hedge of the overall changes in the cash flows above and below the collar strike rates associated with interest payments on certain of Wisconsin Community Bank’s prime-based loans. The failure of this hedge relationship was caused by paydowns, which reduced the designated loan pool from $7.2 million to $4.8 million. This hedge failure resulted in the recognition of a loss of $68 thousand during the second quarter of 2009, which consists of the mark to market loss on this portion of the collar transaction of $41,000 and a reclass of unrealized losses out of other comprehensive income to earnings of $27 thousand. During the third and fourth quarters of 2009, the mark to market adjustment on this collar transaction was recorded as a loss of $69,000.

For the year ended December 31, 2009, the change in net unrealized losses of $41,000 for derivatives designated as cash flow hedges is separately disclosed in the statement of changes in stockholders’ equity, before income taxes of $15,000. For the year ended December 31, 2008, the change in net unrealized gains of $1.8 million for derivatives designated as cash flow hedges is separately disclosed in the statement of changes in shareholders’ equity, before income taxes of $671,000.

Amounts reported in accumulated other comprehensive income related to derivatives will be reclassified to interest income or expense as interest payments are received or made on Heartland’s variable-rate assets and liabilities. For 2009, the change in net unrealized gains on cash flow hedges reflects a reclassification of $196,000 of net unrealized losses from accumulated other comprehensive income to interest income or interest expense. For the next twelve months, Heartland estimates that an additional $47,000 will be reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income to interest income.

Cash payments received on the two collar transactions totaled $1.1 million during 2008 and $2.0 million during 2009.

By using derivatives, Heartland is exposed to credit risk if counterparties to derivative instruments do not perform as expected. Heartland minimizes this risk by entering into derivative contracts with large, stable financial institutions and Heartland has not experienced any losses from counterparty nonperformance on derivative instruments. Furthermore, Heartland also periodically monitors counterparty credit risk in accordance with the provisions of ASC 815.
 

 
FOURTEEN
INCOME TAXES

Income taxes for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008, and 2007, were as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
 
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
Current:
                     
Federal
$
8,086
   
$
4,168
   
$
9,481
 
State
 
1,709
     
2,455
     
2,577
 
Total current
$
9,795
   
$
6,623
   
$
12,058
 
Deferred:
                     
Federal
$
(3,021
)
 
$
(2,069
)
 
$
(2,185
)
State
 
422
     
(1,242
)
   
621
 
Total deferred
$
(2,599
)
 
$
(3,311
)
 
$
(1,564
)
Total income tax expense
$
7,196
   
$
3,312
   
$
10,494
 

Income tax expense is included in the financial statements as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
 
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
Income tax from continuing operations
$
7,196
   
$
3,312
   
$
9,409
 
Income tax from discontinued operations
 
-
     
-
     
1,085
 
Total income tax expense
$
7,196
   
$
3,312
   
$
10,494
 

The income tax provisions above do not include the effects of income tax deductions resulting from exercises of stock options and the vesting of stock awards in the amounts of $18,000, $462,000, and $896,000 in 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively, which were recorded as increases to stockholders’ equity.

Temporary differences between the amounts reported in the financial statements and the tax basis of assets and liabilities result in deferred taxes. Deferred tax assets and liabilities at December 31, 2009 and 2008, were as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
   
2009
 
2008
Deferred tax assets:
               
Tax effect of net unrealized loss on securities available for sale reflected in stockholders’ equity
 
$
-
   
$
1,272
 
Securities
   
1,042
     
1,325
 
Allowance for loan and lease losses
   
15,747
     
13,372
 
Deferred compensation
   
1,851
     
1,940
 
Organization and acquisitions costs
   
647
     
681
 
Net operating loss carryforwards
   
1,606
     
1,712
 
Rehabilitation tax credits
   
202
     
168
 
Non-accrual loan interest
   
1,369
     
1,178
 
OREO writedowns
   
2,346
     
30
 
Other
   
60
     
161
 
Gross deferred tax assets
   
24,870
     
21,839
 
Valuation allowance
   
(1,191
)
   
(1,090
)
Total deferred tax assets
 
$
23,679
   
$
20,749
 

Deferred tax liabilities:
               
Tax effect of net unrealized gain on derivatives reflected in stockholders’ equity
 
$
(632
)
 
$
(534
)
Tax effect of net unrealized gain on securities available for sale reflected in stockholders’ equity
   
(3,652
)
   
-
 
Premises, furniture and equipment
   
(4,707
)
   
(4,662
)
Lease financing
   
(664
)
   
(1,257
)
Tax bad debt reserves
   
(489
)
   
(514
)
Purchase accounting
   
(3,991
)
   
(3,468
)
Prepaid expenses
   
(491
)
   
(615
)
Mortgage servicing rights
   
(3,560
)
   
(1,705
)
Deferred loan fees
   
(288
)
   
(372
)
Other
   
(224
)
   
(217
)
Gross deferred tax liabilities
 
$
(18,698
)
 
$
(13,344
)
Net deferred tax asset (liability)
 
$
4,981
   
$
7,405
 

The deferred tax assets (liabilities) related to net unrealized gains (losses) on securities available for sale and the deferred tax assets and liabilities related to net unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives had no effect on income tax expense as these gains and losses, net of taxes, were recorded in other comprehensive income. Net operating loss carryforwards for state income tax purposes were approximately $34.7 million at December 31, 2009, and $29.4 million at December 31, 2008. The associated deferred tax asset, net of federal tax, was $1.6 million at December 31, 2009, and $1.6 million at December 31, 2008. These carryforwards expire beginning December 31, 2010, through December 31, 2029. A valuation allowance of $1.2 million and $1.1 million existed at December 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively, against the deferred tax asset due to the uncertainty surrounding the utilization of these state net operating loss carryforwards. Realization of the deferred tax asset over time is dependent upon the existence of taxable income in carryback periods or the ability to generate sufficient taxable income in future periods. In determining that realization of the deferred tax asset was more likely than not, Heartland gave consideration to a number of factors including its taxable income during carryback periods, its recent earnings history, its expectations for earnings in the future and, where applicable, the expiration dates associated with its tax carryforwards.

The actual income tax expense from continuing operations differs from the expected amounts (computed by applying the U.S. federal corporate tax rate of 35% to income before income taxes) as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
Computed “expected” tax on income from continuing operations
 
$
4,816
   
$
5,111
   
$
11,680
 
Increase (decrease) resulting from:
                       
Nontaxable interest income
   
(2,700
)
   
(2,214
)
   
(1,988
)
State income taxes, net of federal tax benefit
   
1,385
     
1,032
     
1,577
 
Nondeductible goodwill and other intangibles
   
4,487
     
57
     
57
 
Tax credits
   
(212
)
   
(643
)
   
(1,292
)
Other
   
(580
)
   
(31
)
   
(625
)
Income taxes
 
$
7,196
   
$
3,312
   
$
9,409
 
Effective tax rates
   
52.3
%
   
22.7
%
   
28.2
%
Effective tax rates exclusive of goodwill impairment charge
   
27.2
%
   
22.7
%
   
28.2
%

Heartland had investments in certain low-income housing projects totaling $5.4 million as of December 31, 2009, $4.5 million as of December 31, 2008 and $4.7 million as of December 31, 2007, the majority of which have been fully consolidated in the consolidated financial statements. These investments generated federal low-income housing tax credits of $218,000 in 2009, 2008 and 2007. For each future year through 2013, these investments are expected to continue generating federal low-income housing tax credits of approximately $218,000. During each of the past several years, Dubuque Bank and Trust Company has acquired a 99.9% ownership interest in limited liability companies that provided federal historic rehabilitation credits. These credits totaled $570,000 in 2008 and $1.3 million in 2007. State historic rehabilitation credits on these types of investments totaled $250,000 during 2007.

The amount of unrecognized tax benefits on January 1, 2007, was $1.5 million, including $193,000 of accrued interest and penalties. On December 31, 2007, the amount of unrecognized tax benefits was $1.9 million, including $339,000 of accrued interest and penalties. On December 31, 2008, the amount of unrecognized tax benefits was $2.0 million, including $457,000 of accrued interest and penalties. On December 31, 2009, the amount of unrecognized tax benefits was $1.1 million, including $202,000 of accrued interest and penalties. If recognized, the entire amount of the unrecognized tax benefits would affect the effective tax rate. A reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances for liabilities associated with unrecognized tax benefits for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
 
2009
 
2008
Balance at January 1
$
2,020
   
$
1,928
 
Additions for tax positions related to the current year
 
69
     
276
 
Additions for tax positions related to prior years
 
266
     
160
 
Reductions for tax positions related to prior years
 
(1,228
)
   
(344
)
Balance at December 31
$
1,127
   
$
2,020
 
 
 
The tax years ended December 31, 2009, 2008, 2007 and 2006, remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service. For state purposes, the tax years ended December 31, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006 and 2005, remain open for examination. Wisconsin Community Bank, one of Heartland’s bank subsidiaries, has undergone a franchise tax review for the years ended December 31, 2002 and 2003. In dispute was $1.1 million of deducted expenditures. During the process of appealing the field audit report, a settlement agreement was reached, which included a payment of $260,000 in taxes and $90,000 in interest and penalties. In addition to the years initially under review, the settlement included the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2007. The settlement payment was made during the first quarter of 2009. Heartland does not anticipate any significant increase or decrease in unrecognized tax benefits during the next twelve months.

 

 

FIFTEEN
EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

Heartland sponsors a defined contribution retirement plan covering substantially all employees. Contributions to this plan are subject to approval by the Heartland Board of Directors. The Heartland subsidiaries fund and record as an expense all approved contributions. Costs of these contributions, charged to operating expenses, were $1.5 million, $1.4 million, and $1.9 million for 2009, 2008, and 2007, respectively. This plan includes an employee savings program, under which the Heartland subsidiaries make matching contributions of up to 2% of the participants’ wages. Costs charged to operating expenses with respect to the matching contributions were $863,000, $641,000, and $614,000, for 2009, 2008, and 2007, respectively.

SIXTEEN
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES

Heartland leases certain land and facilities under operating leases. Minimum future rental commitments at December 31, 2009, for all non-cancelable leases were as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
       
2010
 
$
906
2011
   
608
2012
   
451
2013
   
315
2014
   
224
Thereafter
   
2,878
   
$
5,382

Rental expense for premises and equipment leased under operating leases was $1.8 million,  $1.9 million, $1.7 million, for 2009, 2008, and 2007, respectively. Occupancy expense is presented net of rental income of $1.4 million, $1.3 million and $1.3 million for 2009, 2008, and 2007, respectively.

In the normal course of business, the Heartland banks make various commitments and incur certain contingent liabilities that are not presented in the accompanying consolidated financial statements. The commitments and contingent liabilities include various guarantees, commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit.

Commitments to extend credit are agreements to lend to a customer as long as there is no violation of any condition established in the contract. Commitments generally have fixed expiration dates or other termination clauses and may require payment of a fee. Since many of the commitments are expected to expire without being drawn upon, the total commitment amounts do not necessarily represent future cash requirements. The Heartland banks evaluate each customer’s creditworthiness on a case-by-case basis. The amount of collateral obtained, if deemed necessary by the Heartland banks upon extension of credit, is based upon management’s credit evaluation of the counterparty. Collateral held varies but may include accounts receivable, inventory, property, plant and equipment and income-producing commercial properties. Standby letters of credit and financial guarantees written are conditional commitments issued by the Heartland banks to guarantee the performance of a customer to a third party. Those guarantees are primarily issued to support public and private borrowing arrangements. The credit risk involved in issuing letters of credit is essentially the same as that involved in extending loan facilities to customers. At December 31, 2009 and 2008, commitments to extend credit aggregated $603.4 and $529.1 million, and standby letters of credit aggregated $26.7 and $26.2 million, respectively. Heartland enters into commitments to sell mortgage loans to reduce interest rate risk on certain mortgage loans held for sale and loan commitments. At December 31, 2009 and 2008, Heartland had commitments to sell residential real estate loans totaling $37.1 and $88.9 million, respectively. Heartland does not anticipate any material loss as a result of the commitments and contingent liabilities.

Heartland has a loss reserve for unfunded commitments, including loan commitments and letters of credit. At December 31, 2009 and 2008, the reserve for unfunded commitments, which is included in other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets, was approximately $327,000 and $345,000, respectively. The adequacy of the reserve for unfunded commitments is reviewed on a semiannual basis, based upon changes in the amounts of commitments, loss experience and economic conditions.

There are certain legal proceedings pending against Heartland and its subsidiaries at December 31, 2009, that are ordinary routine litigation incidental to business. While the ultimate outcome of current legal proceedings cannot be predicted with certainty, it is the opinion of management that the resolution of these legal actions should not have a material effect on Heartland's consolidated financial position or results of operations.

SEVENTEEN
STOCK PLANS

Effective January 1, 2006, Heartland adopted the provisions of ASC Topic 718, “Compensation-Stock Compensation”, using the “modified prospective” transition method. ASC 718 requires the measurement of the cost of employee services received in exchange for an award of equity instruments based upon the fair value of the award on the grant date. The cost of the award is recognized in the income statement over the vesting period of the award. Under the “modified prospective” transition method, awards that are granted, modified or settled beginning at the date of adoption are measured and accounted for in accordance with ASC 718. In addition, expense must be recognized in the income statement for unvested awards that were granted prior to the date of adoption. The expense is based on the fair value determined at the grant date.

On May 18, 2005, the Heartland 2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan was adopted, replacing the 2003 Stock Option Plan. Under the 2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan, 1,000,000 shares have been reserved for issuance. The 2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan is administered by the Nominating and Compensation Committee (“Compensation Committee”) of the Board of Directors. All employees and directors of, and service providers to, Heartland or its subsidiaries are eligible to become participants in the 2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan, except that non-employees may not be granted incentive stock options. The 2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan provides for the grant of non-qualified and incentive stock options, stock appreciation rights (“SARS”), stock awards and cash incentive awards. The Compensation Committee determines the specific employees who will be granted awards under the 2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan and the type and amount of any such awards. Options may be granted that are either intended to be "incentive stock options" as defined under Section 422 of the Internal Revenue Code or not intended to be incentive stock options ("non-qualified stock options"). The exercise price of stock options granted is established by the Compensation Committee, but the exercise price for the stock options may not be less than the fair market value of the shares on the date that the option is granted or, if greater, the par value of a share of stock. Each option granted is exercisable in full at any time or from time to time, subject to vesting provisions, as determined by the Compensation Committee and as provided in the option agreement, but such time may not exceed ten years from the grant date. At December 31, 2009, there were 469,910 shares available for issuance under the 2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan. At December 31, 2008, there were 464,810 shares available for issuance under the 2005 Stock Option Plan. Shares available for options forfeited under the 2003 Option Plan are transferable to shares available under the 2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan. Shares available for options forfeited under the 1993 Stock Option Plan are not transferable to shares available under the 2003 Stock Option Plan or the 2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan.

Under the 2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan, SARS may also be granted. A SAR entitles the participant to receive stock equal in value to the amount by which the fair market value of a specified number of shares on the exercise date exceeds the exercise price as established by the Compensation Committee. SARS may be exercisable for up to ten years after the date of grant. No SARS have been granted under the 2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan, the 2003 Stock Option Plan or the 1993 Stock Option Plan.

Under the 2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan, stock awards may be granted as determined by the Compensation Committee. In 2005, stock awards totaling 136,500 were granted to key policy-making employees. These stock awards were granted at no cost to the employees. These awards are contingent upon the achievement of performance objectives through December 31, 2011, and additional compensation expense is being recorded through 2011.
 

 
Options have been granted with an exercise price equal to the fair market value of Heartland stock on the date of grant and expire ten years after the date of grant. Vesting is generally over a five-year service period with portions of a grant becoming exercisable at three years, four years and five years after the date of grant. A summary of the status of the 2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan, the 2003 Stock Option Plan and 1993 Stock Option Plans as of December 31, 2009, 2008, and 2007, and changes during the years ended follows:

   
2009
Shares
 
2009 Weighted- Average Exercise Price
 
2008
Shares
 
2008 Weighted- Average Exercise Price
 
2007
Shares
 
2007
Weighted- Average Exercise Price
Outstanding at beginning of year
  $
743,363
   
$
19.79
 
733,012
   
$
18.61
 
815,300
   
$
14.46
Granted
 
-
     
-
 
164,400
     
18.60
 
146,750
     
29.65
Exercised
 
(22,875
)
   
11.84
 
(137,299
)
   
11.41
 
(214,538
)
   
9.96
Forfeited
 
(16,017
)
   
21.38
 
(16,750
)
   
24.74
 
(14,500
)
   
25.24
Outstanding at end of year
 $
704,471
   
$
20.02
 
743,363
   
$
19.79
 
733,012
   
$
18.61
Options exercisable at end of year
 
311,771
   
$
16.26
 
238,713
   
$
14.01
 
280,804
   
$
11.65
Weighted-average fair value of options granted during the year
 
$0.00
         
$4.81
         
$7.69
       

At December 31, 2009, the vested options totaled 311,771 shares with a weighted average exercise price of $16.26 per share and a weighted average remaining contractual life of 3.81 years. The intrinsic value for the vested options as of December 31, 2009 was $494,000. The intrinsic value for the total of all options exercised during the year ended December 31, 2009 was $61,000, and the total fair value of shares vested during the year ended December 31, 2009 was $953,000. As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, options outstanding under the 2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan and the 2003 and 1993 Stock Option Plans had exercise prices ranging from $8.67 to $29.65 per share and a weighted-average remaining contractual life of 5.67 and 6.00 years, respectively.

The fair value of stock options granted was determined utilizing the Black Scholes valuation model. Significant assumptions include:

   
2009
 
2008
 
2007
Risk-free interest rate
 
-
 
3.10%
 
4.74%
Expected option life
 
-
 
6 years
 
6 years
Expected volatility
 
-
 
26.96%
 
24.20%
Expected dividends
 
-
 
1.99%
 
1.25%

The option term of each award granted was based upon Heartland’s historical experience of employees’ exercise behavior. Expected volatility was based upon historical volatility levels and future expected volatility of Heartland’s common stock. Expected dividend yield was based on a set dividend rate. The 2008 risk free interest rate reflects the average of the yields on the 5 year and 7 year zero coupon U.S. Treasury bond. Cash received from options exercised for the year ended December 31, 2009, was $271,000, with a related tax benefit of $18,000. Cash received from options exercised for the year ended December 31, 2008, was $1.6 million, with a related tax benefit of $462,000.

Total compensation costs recorded for stock options and restricted stock awards were $862,000, $851,000, and $1.4 million for 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively. As of December 31, 2009, there was $1.5 million of total unrecognized compensation costs related to the 2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan for stock options and restricted stock awards which is expected to be recognized through 2012. In addition, for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, the shares of stock awarded to Heartland directors in return for services performed were 5,000, 5,917, and 1,400, respectively. The related compensation expense recorded was $84,000, $74,000, and $26,000 for the respective years.

At Heartland’s annual meeting of stockholders on May 18, 2005, the 2006 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the “2006 ESPP”), was adopted, effective January 1, 2006. The 2006 ESPP permits all eligible employees to purchase shares of Heartland common stock at a price of not less than 85% of the fair market value on the determination date (as determined by the Committee). A maximum of 500,000 shares is available for sale under the 2006 ESPP. For the year ended December 31, 2009, Heartland approved a purchase price of 100% of fair market value as determined by the closing price on December 31, 2008. For the year ended December 31, 2008, Heartland approved a purchase price of 100% of fair market value as determined by the closing price on December 31, 2007. At December 31, 2009, 433 shares were purchased under the 2006 ESPP and at December 31, 2008, 11,682 shares were purchased under the 2006 ESPP. Under ASC Topic 718, compensation expense of $93,000 was recorded in 2009 and $56,000 was recorded in 2008, because the price of the shares purchased was set at the beginning of the year for the purchases at the end of the year.

During each of the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, Heartland acquired shares for use in the 2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan, 2003 Stock Option Plan and the 2006 ESPP. Shares acquired totaled 16,021, 345,627, and 407,245 for 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

EIGHTEEN
STOCKHOLDER RIGHTS PLAN

On June 7, 2002, Heartland adopted a stockholders’ rights plan (the "Rights Plan"). Under the terms of the Rights Plan, on June 26, 2002, the Board of Directors distributed one purchase right for each share of common stock outstanding as of June 24, 2002. Upon becoming exercisable, each right entitles the registered holder thereof, under certain limited circumstances, to purchase one-thousandth of a share of Series A Junior Participating preferred stock at an exercise price of $85.00. Rights do not become exercisable until ten business days after any person or group has acquired, commenced, or announced its intention to commence a tender or exchange offer to acquire 15% or more of Heartland’s common stock. If the rights become exercisable, holders of each right, other than the acquirer, upon payment of the exercise price, will have the right to purchase Heartland’s common stock (in lieu of preferred shares) having a value equal to two times the exercise price. If Heartland is acquired in a merger, share exchange or other business combination or 50% or more of its consolidated assets or earning power are sold, rights holders, other than the acquiring or adverse person or group, will be entitled to purchase the acquirer’s shares at a similar discount. If the rights become exercisable, Heartland may also exchange rights, other than those held by the acquiring or adverse person or group, in whole or in part, at an exchange ratio of one share of Heartland’s common stock per right held. Rights are redeemable by Heartland at any time until they are exercisable at the exchange rate of $.01 per right. Issuance of the rights has no immediate dilutive effect, does not currently affect reported earnings per share, is not taxable to Heartland or its stockholders, and will not change the way in which Heartland’s shares are traded. The rights expire on June 7, 2012.

In connection with the Rights Plan, Heartland designated 16,000 shares, par value $1.00 per share, of Series A Junior Participating preferred stock. These shares, if issued, will be entitled to receive quarterly dividends and a liquidation preference. There are no shares issued and outstanding and Heartland does not anticipate issuing any shares of Series A Junior Participating preferred stock except as may be required under the Rights Plan.

NINETEEN
CAPITAL ISSUANCE

On December 19, 2008, Heartland issued $81.7 million of securities to the Treasury under the TARP, consisting of Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series B and a common stock warrant, all of which were classified as Tier I capital for regulatory purposes. Of the $81.7 million purchase price, $75.4 million was assigned to the Preferred Stock and $6.3 million was assigned, based on estimated fair value, to the warrant.

The preferred shares carry an aggregate liquidation preference  of $81.7 million, plus any accrued and unpaid dividends, and cumulative dividends at a rate of 5% per year for the first five years, and at a rate of 9% per year after the fifth year and rank senior to the common stock. All preferred stock dividends were paid as scheduled in 2009. The preferred shares may be redeemed at any time pending approval from the banking regulatory authorities. The warrant entitles Treasury to purchase approximately 610,000 shares of Heartland common stock at an initial exercise per share price of $20.10 (based on the trailing 20 day average Heartland common stock price as of December 5, 2008, the date of Treasury approval.)
 
In conjunction with participation in the TARP, Heartland is subject to certain limitations. Heartland may not pay dividends on its common stock unless all dividends on the preferred shares have been paid and may not increase the dividend payments in excess of the current quarterly dividend of $0.10 per share, or repurchase its common stock, except for issuances under benefit plans. In addition, there are certain limits placed on executive compensation and Heartland is not allowed to redeem any equity securities, or to prepay any of its trust preferred debt securities, until the earlier of December 19, 2011, or the date Treasury no longer owns any of the preferred shares.

TWENTY
REGULATORY CAPITAL REQUIREMENTS AND RESTRICTIONS ON SUBSIDIARY DIVIDENDS

The Heartland banks are subject to various regulatory capital requirements administered by the federal banking agencies. Failure to meet minimum capital requirements can initiate certain mandatory, and possibly additional discretionary, actions by regulators that, if undertaken, could have a direct material effect on the Heartland banks’ financial statements. The regulations prescribe specific capital adequacy guidelines that involve quantitative measures of a bank’s assets, liabilities and certain off balance sheet items as calculated under regulatory accounting practices. Capital classification is also subject to qualitative judgments by the regulators about components, risk weightings and other factors.

Quantitative measures established by regulation to ensure capital adequacy require the Heartland banks to maintain minimum amounts and ratios (set forth in the table below) of total and Tier 1 capital (as defined in the regulations) to risk-weighted assets (as defined), and of Tier 1 capital (as defined) to average assets (as defined). Management believes, as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, that the Heartland banks met all capital adequacy requirements to which they were subject.

As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, the FDIC categorized each of the Heartland banks as well capitalized under the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action. To be categorized as well capitalized, the Heartland banks must maintain minimum total risk-based, Tier 1 risk-based and Tier 1 leverage ratios as set forth in the following table. There are no conditions or events since that notification that management believes have changed each institution’s category.

 

 
 
The Heartland banks’ actual capital amounts and ratios are also presented in the table below.

(Dollars in thousands)
           
   
Actual
 
For Capital Adequacy Purposes
 
To Be Well Capitalized Under Prompt Corrective Action Provisions
   
Amount
 
Ratio
 
Amount
 
Ratio
 
Amount
 
Ratio
                                     
As of December 31, 2009
                                   
Total Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets)
                                   
Consolidated
 
$
427,523
 
15.20
%
 
$
224,943
 
8.0
%
 
$
N/A
     
Dubuque Bank and Trust Company
   
103,687
 
12.76
     
64,992
 
8.0
     
81,240
 
10.0
%
Galena State Bank & Trust Co.
   
23,436
 
13.33
     
14,062
 
8.0
     
17,577
 
10.0
 
First Community Bank
   
11,276
 
14.11
     
6,393
 
8.0
     
7,991
 
10.0
 
Riverside Community Bank
   
25,531
 
13.80
     
14,799
 
8.0
     
18,499
 
10.0
 
Wisconsin Community Bank
   
44,144
 
13.49
     
26,186
 
8.0
     
32,733
 
10.0
 
New Mexico Bank & Trust
   
70,706
 
11.78
     
48,023
 
8.0
     
60,029
 
10.0
 
Arizona Bank & Trust
   
20,820
 
11.54
     
14,435
 
8.0
     
18,043
 
10.0
 
Rocky Mountain Bank
   
43,619
 
13.12
     
26,593
 
8.0
     
33,241
 
10.0
 
    Summit Bank & Trust
   
10,170
 
14.37
     
5,662
 
8.0
     
7,077
 
10.0
 
    Minnesota Bank & Trust
   
14,236
 
45.21
     
2,519
 
8.0
     
3,149
 
10.0
 
Tier 1 Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets)
                                   
Consolidated
 
$
380,334
 
13.53
%
 
$
112,471
 
4.0
%
 
$
N/A
     
Dubuque Bank and Trust Company
   
93,512
 
11.51
     
32,496
 
4.0
     
48,744
 
6.0
%
Galena State Bank & Trust Co.
   
21,408
 
12.18
     
7,031
 
4.0
     
10,546
 
6.0
 
First Community Bank
   
10,266
 
12.85
     
3,196
 
4.0
     
4,794
 
6.0
 
Riverside Community Bank
   
23,202
 
12.54
     
7,400
 
4.0
     
11,100
 
6.0
 
Wisconsin Community Bank
   
40,011
 
12.22
     
13,093
 
4.0
     
19,640
 
6.0
 
New Mexico Bank & Trust
   
63,186
 
10.53
     
24,011
 
4.0
     
36,017
 
6.0
 
Arizona Bank & Trust
   
18,512
 
10.26
     
7,217
 
4.0
     
10,826
 
6.0
 
Rocky Mountain Bank
   
39,426
 
11.86
     
13,296
 
4.0
     
19,945
 
6.0
 
Summit Bank & Trust
   
9,285
 
13.12
     
2,831
 
4.0
     
4,246
 
6.0
 
Minnesota Bank & Trust
   
13,924
 
44.22
     
1,260
 
4.0
     
1,889
 
6.0
 
Tier 1 Capital (to Average Assets)
                                   
Consolidated
 
$
380,334
 
9.64
%
 
$
157,831
 
4.0
%
 
$
N/A
     
Dubuque Bank and Trust Company
   
93,512
 
7.88
     
47,446
 
4.0
     
59,308
 
5.0
%
Galena State Bank & Trust Co.
   
21,408
 
7.40
     
11,574
 
4.0
     
14,467
 
5.0
 
First Community Bank
   
10,266
 
8.37
     
4,904
 
4.0
     
6,130
 
5.0
 
Riverside Community Bank
   
23,202
 
8.32
     
11,151
 
4.0
     
13,938
 
5.0
 
Wisconsin Community Bank
   
40,011
 
9.23
     
17,345
 
4.0
     
21,682
 
5.0
 
New Mexico Bank & Trust
   
63,186
 
7.79
     
32,441
 
4.0
     
40,551
 
5.0
 
Arizona Bank & Trust
   
18,512
 
6.98
     
10,602
 
4.0
     
13,252
 
5.0
 
Rocky Mountain Bank
   
39,426
 
8.38
     
18,816
 
4.0
     
23,520
 
5.0
 
Summit Bank & Trust
   
9,285
 
9.38
     
3,958
 
4.0
     
4,947
 
5.0
 
Minnesota Bank & Trust
   
13,924
 
34.05
     
1,636
 
4.0
     
2,045
 
5.0
 


 

 


 (Dollars in thousands)
   
Actual
 
For Capital Adequacy Purposes
 
To Be Well Capitalized Under Prompt Corrective Action Provisions
   
Amount
 
Ratio
 
Amount
 
Ratio
 
Amount
 
Ratio
As of December 31, 2008
                                   
Total Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets)
                                   
Consolidated
 
$
413,913
 
14.91
%
 
$
222,035
 
8.0
%
 
$
N/A
     
Dubuque Bank and Trust Company
   
95,256
 
12.17
     
62,626
 
8.0
     
78,282
 
10.0
%
Galena State Bank & Trust Co.
   
17,775
 
11.28
     
12,610
 
8.0
     
15,763
 
10.0
 
First Community Bank
   
11,104
 
12.21
     
7,275
 
8.0
     
9,094
 
10.0
 
Riverside Community Bank
   
19,535
 
10.92
     
14,310
 
8.0
     
17,888
 
10.0
 
Wisconsin Community Bank
   
36,107
 
11.09
     
26,048
 
8.0
     
32,560
 
10.0
 
New Mexico Bank & Trust
   
61,655
 
10.74
     
45,930
 
8.0
     
57,413
 
10.0
 
Arizona Bank & Trust
   
24,238
 
13.24
     
14,647
 
8.0
     
18,309
 
10.0
 
Rocky Mountain Bank
   
40,560
 
11.00
     
29,497
 
8.0
     
36,871
 
10.0
 
    Summit Bank & Trust
   
12,323
 
17.22
     
5,726
 
8.0
     
7,158
 
10.0
 
    Minnesota Bank & Trust
   
15,263
 
92.13
     
1,325
 
8.0
     
1,657
 
10.0
 
Tier 1 Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets)
                                   
Consolidated
 
$
368,101
 
13.26
%
 
$
111,017
 
4.0
%
 
$
N/A
     
Dubuque Bank and Trust Company
   
85,851
 
10.97
     
31,313
 
4.0
     
46,969
 
6.0
%
Galena State Bank & Trust Co.
   
15,804
 
10.03
     
6,305
 
4.0
     
9,458
 
6.0
 
First Community Bank
   
9,979
 
10.97
     
3,638
 
4.0
     
5,456
 
6.0
 
Riverside Community Bank
   
17,297
 
9.67
     
7,155
 
4.0
     
10,733
 
6.0
 
Wisconsin Community Bank
   
32,035
 
9.84
     
13,024
 
4.0
     
19,536
 
6.0
 
New Mexico Bank & Trust
   
54,736
 
9.53
     
22,965
 
4.0
     
34,448
 
6.0
 
Arizona Bank & Trust
   
21,941
 
11.98
     
7,323
 
4.0
     
10,985
 
6.0
 
Rocky Mountain Bank
   
35,951
 
9.75
     
14,749
 
4.0
     
22,123
 
6.0
 
Summit Bank & Trust
   
11,441
 
15.98
     
2,863
 
4.0
     
4,295
 
6.0
 
Minnesota Bank & Trust
   
15,099
 
91.14
     
663
 
4.0
     
994
 
6.0
 
Tier 1 Capital (to Average Assets)
                                   
Consolidated
 
$
368,101
 
10.68
%
 
$
137,917
 
4.0
%
 
$
N/A
     
Dubuque Bank and Trust Company
   
85,851
 
8.42
     
40,771
 
4.0
     
50,964
 
5.0
%
Galena State Bank & Trust Co.
   
15,804
 
6.98
     
9,052
 
4.0
     
11,315
 
5.0
 
First Community Bank
   
9,979
 
8.08
     
4,937
 
4.0
     
6,172
 
5.0
 
Riverside Community Bank
   
17,297
 
7.01
     
9,876
 
4.0
     
12,345
 
5.0
 
Wisconsin Community Bank
   
32,035
 
7.82
     
16,381
 
4.0
     
20,477
 
5.0
 
New Mexico Bank & Trust
   
54,736
 
7.51
     
29,146
 
4.0
     
36,432
 
5.0
 
Arizona Bank & Trust
   
21,941
 
10.28
     
8,539
 
4.0
     
10,673
 
5.0
 
Rocky Mountain Bank
   
35,951
 
7.96
     
18,068
 
4.0
     
22,585
 
5.0
 
Summit Bank & Trust
   
11,441
 
15.38
     
2,975
 
4.0
     
3,719
 
5.0
 
Minnesota Bank & Trust
   
15,099
 
68.98
     
876
 
4.0
     
1,095
 
5.0
 

The ability of Heartland to pay dividends to its stockholders is dependent upon dividends paid by its subsidiaries. The Heartland banks are subject to certain statutory and regulatory restrictions on the amount they may pay in dividends. To maintain acceptable capital ratios in the Heartland banks, certain portions of their retained earnings are not available for the payment of dividends. Retained earnings that could be available for the payment of dividends to Heartland totaled approximately $94.5 million as of December 31, 2009, under the most restrictive minimum capital requirements. Retained earnings that could be available for the payment of dividends to Heartland totaled approximately $59.8 million as of December 31, 2009, under the capital requirements to remain well capitalized.

 

 

TWENTY-ONE
FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

Effective January 1, 2008, Heartland adopted ASC 820 for fair value measurements of certain of its financial instruments. The provisions of ASC 825 which permit an entity to choose to measure eligible financial instruments and other items at fair value, also became effective January 1, 2008. Heartland has not made any fair value elections under ASC 825 as of December 31, 2009.

As discussed in Note 1 above, ASC 820 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands the required disclosure about fair value measurements. Heartland utilizes fair value measurements to record fair value adjustments to certain assets and liabilities and to determine fair value disclosures. Securities available for sale, trading securities and derivatives are recorded at fair value on a recurring basis. Additionally, from time to time, Heartland may be required to record at fair value other assets on a non-recurring basis such as loans held for sale, loans held to maturity and certain other assets including, but not limited to, mortgage servicing rights. These nonrecurring fair value adjustments typically involve application of lower of cost or market accounting or write-downs of individual assets.

Fair Value Hierarchy

Under ASC 820, assets and liabilities are grouped at fair value in three levels, based on the markets in which the assets and liabilities are traded and the reliability of the assumptions used to determine fair value. These levels are:

Level 1 - Valuation is based upon quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets.

Level 2 - Valuation is based upon quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets, or similar instruments in markets that are not active, and model-based valuation techniques for all significant assumptions are observable in the market.

Level 3 - Valuation is generated from model-based techniques that use at least one significant assumption not observable in the market. These unobservable assumptions reflect estimates of assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. Valuation techniques include use of option pricing models, discounted cash flow models and similar techniques.

The following is a description of valuation methodologies used for assets recorded at fair value and for estimation of fair value for financial instruments not recorded at fair value.

Assets

Securities Available for Sale
Securities available for sale are recorded at fair value on a recurring basis. Fair value measurement is based upon quoted prices, if available. If quoted prices are not available, fair values are measured using independent pricing models or other model-based valuation techniques such as the present value of future cash flows, adjusted for the security’s credit rating, prepayment assumptions and other factors such as credit loss assumptions. Level 1 securities include those traded on an active exchange, such as the New York Stock Exchange, as well as U.S. Treasury and other U.S. government and agency securities that are traded by dealers or brokers in active over-the-counter markets. Level 2 securities include agency mortgage-backed securities and private collateralized mortgage obligations, municipal bonds and corporate debt securities. The Level 3 securities consist primarily of $1.4 million of Z tranche assets.

Trading Assets
Trading assets are recorded at fair value and consist of securities held for trading purposes. The valuation method for trading securities is the same as the methodology used for securities classified as available for sale.
Loans Held for Sale
Loans held for sale are carried at the lower of cost or fair value. The fair value of loans held for sale is based on what secondary markets are currently offering for portfolios with similar characteristics. As such, Heartland classifies loans held for sale subjected to nonrecurring fair value adjustments as Level 2.

Loans Held to Maturity
Heartland does not record loans at fair value on a recurring basis. However, from time to time, a loan is considered impaired and an allowance for loan losses is established. Loans for which it is probable that payment of interest and principal will not be made in accordance with the contractual terms of the loan agreement are considered impaired. Once a loan is identified as individually impaired, management measures impairment in accordance with ASC 310, “Accounting by Creditors for Impairment of a Loan”. Loan impairment is measured based on the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate, except where more practical, at the observable market price of the loan or the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral dependent. Heartland’s allowance methodology requires specific reserves for all impaired loans. At December 31, 2009, substantially all of the total impaired loans were based on the fair value of the collateral. In accordance with ASC 820, impaired loans where an allowance is established based on the fair value of collateral require classification in the fair value hierarchy. Heartland classifies the impaired loans as nonrecurring Level 3.

Derivative Financial Instruments
Currently, Heartland uses interest rate caps, floors and collars to manage its interest rate risk. The valuation of these instruments is determined using widely accepted valuation techniques including discounted cash flow analysis on the expected cash flows of each derivative. This analysis reflects the contractual terms of the derivatives, including the period to maturity, and uses observable market-based inputs, including interest rate curves and implied volatilities. The fair values of interest rate options are determined using the market standard methodology of discounting the future expected cash receipts that would occur if variable interest rates fell below (rise above) the strike rate of the floors (caps). The variable interest rates used in the calculation of projected receipts on the floor (cap) are based on an expectation of future interest rates derived from observable market interest rate curves and volatilities. To comply with the provisions of ASC 820, Heartland incorporates credit valuation adjustments to appropriately reflect both its own nonperformance risk and the respective counterparty’s nonperformance risk in the fair value measurements. In adjusting the fair value of its derivative contracts for the effect of nonperformance risk, Heartland has considered the impact of netting any applicable credit enhancements, such as collateral postings, thresholds, mutual puts, and guarantees.

Although Heartland has determined that the majority of the inputs used to value its derivatives fall within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, the credit valuation adjustments associated with its derivatives utilize Level 3 inputs, such as estimates of current credit spreads to evaluate the likelihood of default by itself and its counterparties. However, as of December 31, 2009, Heartland has assessed the significance of the impact of the credit valuation adjustments on the overall valuation of its derivative positions and has determined that the credit valuation adjustments are not significant to the overall valuation of its derivatives. As a result, Heartland has determined that its derivative valuations in their entirety are classified in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Mortgage Servicing Rights
Mortgage servicing rights are subject to impairment testing. The carrying values of these rights are reviewed quarterly for impairment based upon the calculation of fair value as performed by an outside third party. For purposes of measuring impairment, the rights are stratified into certain risk characteristics including note type, note rate, prepayment trends and external market factors. If the valuation model reflects a value less than the carrying value, mortgage servicing rights are adjusted to fair value through a valuation allowance. As such, Heartland classifies mortgage servicing rights subjected to nonrecurring fair value adjustments as Level 2.

Other Real Estate Owned
Other real estate represents property acquired through foreclosures and settlements of loans. Property acquired is carried at the lower of the principal amount of the loan outstanding at the time of acquisition, plus any acquisition costs, or the estimated fair value of the property, less disposal costs. Heartland considers third party appraisals as well as independent fair value assessments from realtors or persons involved in selling OREO in determining the fair value of particular properties. Accordingly, the valuation of OREO is subject to significant external and internal judgment. Heartland also periodically reviews OREO to determine whether the property continues to be carried at the lower of its recorded book value or fair value of the property, less disposal costs. OREO is classified as nonrecurring Level 3.
 

 
The table below presents, Heartland’s assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2009, aggregated by the level in the fair value hierarchy within which those measurements fall:

(Dollars in thousands)
   
Total Fair Value
Dec. 31, 2009
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
                                 
Trading securities
 
$
695
   
$
695
   
$
-
   
$
-
 
Available-for-sale securities
   
1,135,468
     
279,441
     
854,492
     
1,535
 
Derivative assets
   
2,530
     
-
     
2,530
     
-
 
Total assets at fair value
 
$
1,138,693
   
$
280,136
   
$
857,022
   
$
1,535
 

The changes in Level 3 assets that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis are summarized in the following table:

(Dollars in thousands)

   
Fair Value
 
Balance at January 1, 2009
$
                  120
 
Purchases
 
219
 
Assets acquired through acquisition
 
141
 
Redemptions
 
(72
)
Impairment loss
 
(40
)
Market value appreciation
 
1,167
 
Balance at December 31, 2009
$
1,535
 

The table below presents Heartland’s assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis:

(Dollars in thousands)

   
 
Carrying Value at December 31, 2009
   
Year Ended December 31, 2009
 
     
Total
     
Level 1
     
Level 2
     
Level 3
   
Total Losses
 
                                       
Impaired loans
 
$
124,791
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
124,791
 
$
28,384
 
OREO
   
30,568
     
-
     
-
     
30,568
   
8,137
 

The table below is a summary of the estimated fair value of Heartland’s financial instruments as of December 31, 2009 and 2008 as defined by ASC 825. The carrying amounts in the following table are recorded in the balance sheet under the indicated captions. In accordance with ASC 825, the assets and liabilities that are not financial instruments are not included in the disclosure, such as the value of the mortgage servicing rights, premises, furniture and equipment, goodwill and other intangibles and other liabilities.

Heartland does not believe that the estimated information presented herein is representative of the earnings power or value of Heartland. The following analysis, which is inherently limited in depicting fair value, also does not consider any value associated with existing customer relationships nor the ability of Heartland to create value through loan origination, deposit gathering or fee generating activities. Many of the estimates presented herein are based upon the use of highly subjective information and assumptions and, accordingly, the results may not be precise. Management believes that fair value estimates may not be comparable between financial institutions due to the wide range of permitted valuation techniques and numerous estimates which must be made. Furthermore, because the disclosed fair value amounts were estimated as of the balance sheet date, the amounts actually realized or paid upon maturity or settlement of the various financial instruments could be significantly different.
 
 
(Dollars in thousands)
   
December 31, 2009
 
December 31, 2008
   
Carrying Amount
 
Fair Value
 
Carrying Amount
 
Fair Value
Financial Assets:
                       
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
182,410
 
$
182,410
 
$
51,303
 
$
51,303
Trading securities
   
695
   
695
   
1,694
   
1,694
Securities available for sale
   
1,135,468
   
1,135,468
   
871,686
   
871,686
Securities held to maturity
   
39,054
   
37,477
   
30,325
   
26,326
Loans and leases, net of unearned
   
2,380,312
   
2,408,506
   
2,424,696
   
2,559,564
Derivatives
   
2,530
   
2,530
   
2,698
   
2,698
                         
Financial Liabilities:
                       
Demand deposits
 
$
460,645
 
$
460,645
 
$
383,061
 
$
383,061
Savings deposits
   
1,554,358
   
1,554,358
   
1,128,312
   
1,128,312
Time deposits
   
1,035,386
   
1,035,386
   
1,128,859
   
1,136,933
Short-term borrowings
   
162,349
   
162,349
   
210,184
   
210,184
Other borrowings
   
451,429
   
438,102
   
437,833
   
448,037
                         
Cash and Cash Equivalents – The carrying amount is a reasonable estimate of fair value due to the short-term nature of these instruments.

Securities - For securities either held to maturity, available for sale or trading, fair value equals quoted market price if available. If a quoted market price is not available, fair value is estimated using quoted market prices for similar securities.

Loans and LeasesThe fair value of loans is estimated using a historical or replacement cost basis concept (i.e. an entrance price concept). The fair value of loans is estimated by discounting the future cash flows using the current rates at which similar loans would be made to borrowers with similar credit ratings and for the same remaining maturities. The fair value of loans held for sale is estimated using quoted market prices.

Deposits - The fair value of demand deposits, savings accounts and certain money market deposits is the amount payable on demand at the reporting date. The fair value of fixed maturity certificates of deposit is estimated using the rates currently offered for deposits of similar remaining maturities. If the fair value of the fixed maturity certificates of deposits is calculated at less than the carrying amount, the carrying value of these deposits is reported as the fair value.

Short-term and Other Borrowings - Rates currently available to Heartland for debt with similar terms and remaining maturities are used to estimate fair value of existing debt.

Commitments to Extend Credit, Unused Lines of Credit and Standby Letters of Credit - Based upon management’s analysis of the off balance sheet financial instruments, there are no significant unrealized gains or losses associated with these financial instruments based upon our review of 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.

Derivatives – The fair value of all derivatives was estimated based on the amount that Heartland would pay or would be paid to terminate the contract or agreement, using current rates and, when appropriate, the current creditworthiness of the counter-party.

 

 
 
TWENTY-TWO
PARENT COMPANY ONLY FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Condensed financial information for Heartland Financial USA, Inc. is as follows:

BALANCE SHEETS
(Dollars in thousands)
   
December 31,
   
2009
 
2008
Assets:
               
Cash and interest bearing deposits
 
$
6,161
   
$
3,486
 
Trading securities
   
695
     
1,694
 
Securities available for sale
   
13,740
     
41,024
 
Investment in subsidiaries
   
399,734
     
351,379
 
Other assets
   
14,527
     
15,629
 
Due from subsidiaries
   
4,750
     
15,500
 
Total assets
 
$
439,607
   
$
428,712
 
                 
Liabilities and stockholders’ equity:
               
Short-term borrowings
 
$
5,000
   
$
-
 
Other borrowings
   
116,295
     
117,087
 
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
   
6,031
     
6,022
 
Total liabilities
   
127,326
     
123,109
 
                 
Stockholders’ equity:
               
Preferred stock
   
77,224
     
75,578
 
Common stock
   
16,612
     
16,612
 
Capital surplus
   
44,284
     
43,827
 
Retained earnings
   
172,487
     
177,753
 
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
   
7,107
     
(1,341
)
Treasury stock
   
(5,433
)
   
(6,826
)
Total stockholders’ equity
   
312,281
     
305,603
 
Total liabilities & stockholders’ equity
 
$
439,607
   
$
428,712
 
 

 
INCOME STATEMENTS
(Dollars in thousands)
   
For the years ended December 31,
   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
Operating revenues:
                       
Dividends from subsidiaries
 
$
12,000
   
$
18,500
   
$
25,500
 
Securities gains, net
   
2,405
     
-
     
35
 
Gain (loss) on trading account securities
   
211
     
(998
)
   
(105
)
Impairment loss on equity securities
   
(40
)
   
(4,972
)
   
-
 
Other
   
1,734
     
975
     
1,464
 
Total operating revenues
   
16,310
     
13,505
     
26,894
 
Operating expenses:
                       
Interest
   
6,104
     
8,684
     
9,510
 
Salaries and benefits
   
957
     
740
     
1,590
 
Professional fees
   
547
     
784
     
971
 
Other operating expenses
   
717
     
852
     
1,494
 
Total operating expenses
   
8,325
     
11,060
     
13,565
 
Equity in undistributed earnings (loss)
   
(3,055
)
   
3,002
     
8,278
 
Income before income tax benefit
   
4,930
     
5,447
     
21,607
 
Income tax benefit
   
1,632
     
5,845
     
4,026
 
Net income
   
6,562
     
11,292
     
25,633
 
Preferred dividends and discount
   
(5,344
)
   
(178
)
   
-
 
Net income available to common stockholders
 
$
1,218
   
$
11,114
   
$
25,633
 


 
 

 


STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Dollars in thousands)
   
For the years ended December 31,
   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
Cash flows from operating activities:
                       
Net income
 
$
6,562
   
$
11,292
   
$
25,633
 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided  by operating activities:
                       
Undistributed loss (earnings) of subsidiaries
   
3,055
     
(3,002
)
   
(8,278
)
Security gains, net
   
(2,405
)
   
-
     
(35
)
Impairment loss on securities
   
40
     
4,972
     
-
 
Decrease in due from subsidiaries
   
10,750
     
-
     
-
 
 Increase (decrease) in accrued expenses and other liabilities
   
9
     
548
     
(4,503
)
(Increase) decrease in other assets
   
1,227
     
(373
)
   
(5,830
)
(Increase) decrease in trading account securities
   
997
     
194
     
(320
)
Other, net
   
987
     
1,612
     
508
 
Net cash provided by operating activities
   
21,222
     
15,243
     
7,175
 
Cash flows from investing activities:
                       
Capital contributions to subsidiaries
   
(43,720
)
   
(19,700
)
   
(3,162
)
Purchases of available for sale securities
   
(2,919
)
   
(45,428
)
   
-
 
Proceeds from the maturity of and principal paydowns on securities available for sale
   
33,332
     
560
     
-
 
Proceeds from sales of available for sale securities
   
-
     
-
     
310
 
Net cash used by investing activities
   
(13,307
)
   
(64,568
)
   
(2,852
)
Cash flows from financing activities:
                       
Net change in short-term borrowings
   
5,000
     
(15,000
)
   
(20,000
)
Proceeds from other borrowings
   
-
     
563
     
41,902
 
Repayments of other borrowings
   
(792
)
   
(4,195
)
   
(13,403
)
Proceeds from preferred stock and warrant
   
-
     
81,698
     
-
 
Cash dividends paid
   
(10,182
)
   
(6,461
)
   
(6,050
)
Purchase of treasury stock
   
(236
)
   
(6,978
)
   
(9,821
)
Proceeds from issuance of common stock
   
970
     
2,358
     
2,828
 
Net cash provided (used) by financing activities
   
(5,240
)
   
51,985
     
(4,544
)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
   
2,675
     
2,660
     
(221
)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
   
3,486
     
826
     
1,047
 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year
 
$
6,161
   
$
3,486
   
$
826
 


 
 

 

TWENTY-THREE
SUMMARY OF QUARTERLY FINANCIAL INFORMATION (UNAUDITED)

(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
2009
   
Dec. 31
 
Sept. 30
 
June 30
 
March 31
Net interest income
 
$
34,726
 
$
34,582
 
$
32,378
 
$
31,077
 
Provision for loan and lease losses
   
10,775
   
11,896
   
10,041
   
6,665
 
Net interest income after provision for loan and lease losses
   
23,951
   
22,686
   
22,337
   
24,412
 
Noninterest income
   
13,370
   
11,908
   
14,664
   
12,762
 
Noninterest expense
   
43,434
   
30,323
   
30,477
   
28,286
 
Income taxes
   
1,762
   
803
   
1,812
   
2,819
 
Net income (loss)
   
(7,875
)
 
3,468
   
4,712
   
6,069
 
Net income available to noncontrolling interest, net of tax.
   
41
   
44
   
44
   
59
 
Net income (loss) attributable to Heartland
   
(7,834
)
 
3,512
   
4,756
   
6,128
 
Preferred stock dividends and discount
   
(1,336
)
 
(1,336
)
 
(1,336
)
 
(1,336
)
Net income (loss) available to common stockholders
 
 
(9,170
)
 
2,176
 
 
3,420
 
 
4,792
 
                           
Per share:
                         
Earnings (loss) per share-basic
 
$
(.56
)
$
0.13
 
$
0.21
 
$
0.29
 
Earnings (loss) per share-diluted
   
(.56
)
 
0.13
   
0.21
   
0.29
 
Cash dividends declared on common stock
   
0.10
   
0.10
   
0.10
   
0.10
 
Book value per common share
   
14.38
   
15.23
   
14.62
   
14.50
 
Market price – high
   
15.29
   
16.98
   
15.93
   
20.81
 
Market price – low
   
12.04
   
12.56
   
11.51
   
8.51
 
Weighted average common shares outstanding
   
16,324,039
   
16,311,454
   
16,298,242
   
16,276,064
 
Weighted average diluted common shares outstanding
   
16,345,095
   
16,340,092
   
16,323,724
   
16,296,839
 
 
Ratios:
                         
Return on average assets
   
-0.92
%
 
0.22
%
 
0.36
%
 
0.53
%
Return on average equity
   
-14.76
   
3.54
   
5.74
   
8.26
 
Net interest margin
   
4.04
   
4.06
   
3.92
   
3.94
 
Efficiency ratio
   
92.19
   
65.55
   
66.4
   
67.48
 
 

(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
2008
   
Dec. 31
 
Sept. 30
 
June 30
 
March 31
Net interest income
 
$
29,227
 
$
29,886
 
$
28,835
 
$
27,738
 
Provision for loan and lease losses
   
15,106
   
7,083
   
5,369
   
1,761
 
Net interest income after provision for loan and lease losses
   
14,121
   
22,803
   
23,466
   
25,977
 
Noninterest income
   
5,524
   
7,880
   
8,318
   
8,474
 
Noninterest expense
   
24,158
   
26,737
   
25,580
   
25,764
 
Income taxes
   
(1,769
)
 
1,018
   
1,643
   
2,420
 
Net income (loss)
   
(2,744
)
 
2,928
   
4,561
   
6,267
 
Net income available to noncontrolling interest, net     of tax
   
61
   
77
   
142
   
-
 
Net income (loss) attributable to Heartland
   
(2,683
)
 
3,005
   
4,703
   
6,267
 
Preferred stock dividends and discount
   
(178
)
 
-
   
-
   
-
 
Net income (loss) available to common stockholders
 
 
(2,861
)
 
3,005
 
 
4,703
 
 
6,267
 
                           
Per share:
                         
Earnings (loss) per share-basic
 
$
(0.17
)
$
0.18
 
$
0.29
 
$
0.38
 
Earnings (loss) per share-diluted
   
(0.18
)
 
0.18
   
0.29
   
0.38
 
Cash dividends declared on common stock
   
0.10
   
0.10
   
0.10
   
0.10
 
Book value per common share
   
14.13
   
13.86
   
13.99
   
14.46
 
Market price – high
   
25.00
   
25.06
   
23.40
   
22.40
 
Market price – low
   
16.70
   
18.40
   
18.19
   
16.78
 
Weighted average common shares outstanding
   
16,252,652
   
16,264,032
   
16,316,529
   
16,378,394
 
Weighted average diluted common shares outstanding
   
16,324,106
   
16,355,393
   
16,388,885
   
16,465,985
 
 
Ratios:
                         
Return on average assets
   
-0.33
%
 
0.35
%
 
0.56
%
 
0.77
%
Return on average equity
   
-5.12
   
5.26
   
8.08
   
10.72
 
Net interest margin
   
3.79
   
3.96
   
3.92
   
3.88
 
Efficiency ratio
   
68.37
   
68.79
   
67.92
   
70.02
 

 

 
 

kpmg logo

 
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
 
The Board of Directors and Stockholders
 
Heartland Financial USA, Inc.:
 
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Heartland Financial USA, Inc. and subsidiaries (the Company) as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, and the related consolidated statements of income, stockholders’ equity and comprehensive income, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2009. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits.
 
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. 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, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Heartland Financial USA, Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2009, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.
 
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), Heartland Financial USA, Inc.’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2009, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO), and our report dated March 16, 2010 expressed an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
 
 
kpmg signature
 
 
Des Moines, Iowa
 
 
March 16, 2010
 

 

 


ITEM 9.

CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

None.

ITEM 9A.

CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

EVALUATION OF DISCLOSURE CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Under the direction of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, Heartland has evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of Heartland’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) promulgated under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) as of December 31, 2009. Based on that evaluation, Heartland’s management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, concluded that Heartland’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective in ensuring that information required to be disclosed by Heartland in the reports that it files or submits under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in applicable rules and forms and that such information is accumulated and communicated to management, including Heartland’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, in a manner that allows timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
 
MANAGEMENT’S ANNUAL REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

Heartland’s management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. Heartland’s internal control system was designed to provide reasonable assurance to Heartland’s management, board of directors and stockholders regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation and fair presentation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. All internal control systems, no matter how well designed, have inherent limitations. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation. Heartland’s management, under the supervision and with the participation of Heartland’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of Heartland’s internal control over financial reporting based upon the framework set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) in Internal Control –Integrated Framework. Based on our assessment, Heartland’s internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2009.

KPMG LLP, the independent registered public accounting firm that audited Heartland’s consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2009, included herein, has issued an attestation report on Heartland’s internal control over financial reporting. This report follows management’s report.

CHANGES IN INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

There were no changes to Heartland’s internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended December 31, 2009, that materially affected, or are reasonably likely, to affect Heartland’s internal control over financial reporting.

 
 

 

 
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
 
The Board of Directors and Stockholders
 
Heartland Financial USA, Inc.:
 
We have audited Heartland Financial USA, Inc.’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2009, based on Internal Control – Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Heartland Financial USA, Inc.’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 Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Heartland Financial USA, Inc.'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, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audit also included 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 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 its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
 
In our opinion, Heartland Financial USA, Inc. maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2009, based on Internal Control – Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
 
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets of Heartland Financial USA, Inc. and subsidiaries as
 

 
kpmg logo
 

 
of December 31, 2009 and 2008, and the related consolidated statements of income, stockholders’ equity and comprehensive income, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2009, and our report dated March 16, 2010 expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements.
 
 
kpmg signature
 
 
Des Moines, Iowa
 
 
March 16, 2010
 

 

 


ITEM 9B.

OTHER INFORMATION

None.

PART III

ITEM 10.

DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

The information in the Proxy Statement for Heartland’s 2010 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on May 19, 2010 (the "2010 Proxy Statement") under the captions "Election of Directors", "Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management", “Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance” and “Corporate Governance and the Board of Directors” is incorporated by reference. The information regarding executive officers is noted in Part I of this report.

ITEM 11.

EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

The information in our 2010 Proxy Statement, under the captions “Compensation Discussion and Analysis”, “Compensation/Nominating Committee Interlocks”, “Compensation/Nominating Committee Report On Executive Compensation” and "Executive Compensation" is incorporated by reference.

ITEM 12.

SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

The information in our 2010 Proxy Statement, under the caption "Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management" is incorporated by reference.

The table below sets forth the following information as of December 31, 2009 for (i) all compensation plans previously approved by Heartland's shareholders and (ii) all compensation plans not previously approved by Heartland's shareholders:

a. 
the number of securities to be issued upon the exercise of outstanding options, warrants and rights;
b. 
the weighted-average exercise price of such outstanding options, warrants and rights;
c. 
other than securities to be issued upon the exercise of such outstanding options, warrants and rights, the number of securities remaining available for future issuance under the plans.

EQUITY COMPENSATION PLAN INFORMATION
       
 
Number of securities to be issued upon exercise of outstanding options
Weighted-average exercise price of outstanding options
Number of securities available for future issuance
Equity compensation plans
  approved by security holders
704,471
$20.02
931,094
Equity compensation plans
  not approved by security
  holders
-
-
-
Total
704,471
$20.02
931,094 1
       
1 Includes 469,910 shares available for use under the Heartland 2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan and 461,184 shares available for use under the Heartland Employee Stock Purchase Plan.

 
ITEM 13.

CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE

The information in the 2010 Proxy Statement under the caption "Transactions with Management" is incorporated by reference.

ITEM 14.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

The information in the 2010 Proxy Statement under the caption “Relationship with Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm” is incorporated by reference.

PART IV

ITEM 15.

EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

(a)
 
The documents filed as a part of this report are listed below:
     
   
3.
 
Exhibits
         
       
The exhibits required by Item 601 of Regulation S-K are included along with this Form 10-K and are listed on the “Index of Exhibits” immediately following the signature page.
         


 

 


SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 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 16, 2010.

Heartland Financial USA, Inc.


By:           /s/ Lynn B. Fuller           /s/ John K. Schmidt
------------------------           ------------------------
Lynn B. Fuller             John K. Schmidt
Principal Executive Officer        Executive Vice President
          and Principal Financial and Accounting Officer

Date:           March 16, 2010

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities indicated on March 16, 2010.


/s/ Lynn B. Fuller                                                                   /s/ John K. Schmidt
-----------------------------                                                         -----------------------------
Lynn B. Fuller                                                                        John K. Schmidt
President, CEO, Chairman                                                    Executive Vice President, CFO
and Director                                                                           and Director

/s/ James F. Conlan                                                              /s/ Mark C. Falb
-----------------------------                                                         -----------------------------
James F. Conlan                                                                   Mark C. Falb
Director                                                                                 Director

/s/ Thomas L. Flynn                                                            /s/ John W. Cox, Jr.
-----------------------------                                                        -----------------------------
Thomas L. Flynn                                                                  John W. Cox, Jr.
Director                                                                                 Director

/s/ James R. Hill
-----------------------------
James R. Hill
Director
 
 
 

 
 
   
INDEX OF EXHIBITS
     
3.1
 
Certificate of Incorporation of Heartland Financial USA, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on November 7, 2008).
     
3.2
 
Amendment to Certificate of Incorporation of Heartland Financial USA, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on August 10, 2009).
     
3.3
 
Certificate of Designations of Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series B (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 22, 2008).
     
3.4
 
Bylaws of Heartland Financial USA, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 15, 2004).
     
4.1
 
Form of Specimen Stock Certificate for Heartland Financial USA, Inc. common stock (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File No. 33-76228) filed on May 4, 1994).
     
4.2
 
Rights Agreement, dated as of June 7, 2002, between Heartland Financial USA, Inc. and Dubuque Bank and Trust Company, as Rights Agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 11, 2002).
     
4.3
 
Warrant to purchase up to 609,687 shares of common stock, issued on December 19, 2008 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 22, 2008).
     
4.4
 
Form of Preferred Share Certificate for Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series B (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 22, 2008).
     
4.5
 
Form of Indenture between Heartland Financial USA, Inc. and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, to be used in connection with the issuance of senior debt securities (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-3 filed on May 15, 2009).
     
4.6
 
Form of Indenture between Heartland Financial USA, Inc. and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, to be used in connection with the issuance of subordinated debt securities (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.4 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-3 filed on May 15, 2009).
     
10.1(1)
 
Heartland Financial USA, Inc. 1993 Stock Option Plan dated as of May 12, 1993 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-4 filed on March 10, 1994).
     
10.2
 
Heartland Financial USA, Inc. Dividend Reinvestment Plan dated as of January 24, 2002 (incorporated by reference to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-3 filed on January 25, 2002).
     
10.3(1)
 
Heartland Financial USA, Inc. 2003 Stock Option Plan dated as of May 21, 2003 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit B to the Registrant’s Proxy Statement on Form DEF14A filed on April 7, 2003).
     
10.4
 
Indenture by and between Heartland Financial USA, Inc. and U.S. Bank National Association, dated as of October 10, 2003 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on November 13, 2003).
     
10.5
 
Indenture by and between Heartland Financial USA, Inc. and U.S. Bank National Association dated as of March 17, 2004 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.12 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 14, 2007).
     
10.6
 
Indenture by and between Heartland Financial USA, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, dated as of January 31, 2006 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.19 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 10, 2006).
     
10.7(1)
 
Heartland Financial USA, Inc. 2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.01 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 19, 2005).
     
10.8
 
Heartland Financial USA, Inc. 2006 Employee Stock Purchase Plan effective January 1, 2006 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.02 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 19, 2005).
     
10.9(1)
 
Form of Agreement for Heartland Financial USA, Inc. 2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan Non-Qualified Stock Option Awards (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on February 10, 2006).
     
10.10(1)
 
Form of Agreement for Heartland Financial USA, Inc.  2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan Performance Restricted Stock Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.21 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 10, 2006).
     
10.11
 
Indenture between Heartland Financial USA, Inc. and Wilmington Trust Company dated as of June 26, 2007 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on August 9, 2007).
     
10.12
 
Indenture between Heartland Financial USA, Inc. and Wilmington Trust Company dated as of June 26, 2007 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on August 9, 2007).
     
10.13(1)
 
Change of Control Agreements between Heartland Financial USA, Inc. and Executive Officers dated September 7, 2007 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on September 7, 2007).
     
10.14
 
Subscription and Shareholder Agreement between Heartland Financial USA, Inc. and Investors in Minnesota Bank & Trust dated as of September 21, 2007 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on November 9, 2007).
     
10.15(1)
 
Heartland Financial USA, Inc. Policy on Director Fees and Policy on Expense Reimbursement For Directors (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 5, 2007).
     
10.16(1)
 
Form of Split-Dollar Life Insurance Plan effective November 13, 2001, between the subsidiaries of Heartland Financial USA, Inc. and their selected officers, including four subsequent amendments effective January 1, 2002, May 1, 2002, September 16, 2003 and December 31, 2007. These plans are in place at Dubuque Bank and Trust Company, Galena State Bank & Trust Co., First Community Bank, Riverside Community Bank, Wisconsin Community Bank and New Mexico Bank & Trust (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on May 12, 2008).
     
10.17(1)
 
Form of Executive Supplemental Life Insurance Plan effective January 1, 2005, between the subsidiaries of Heartland Financial USA, Inc. and their selected officers, including a subsequent amendment effective December 31, 2007. These plans are in place at Dubuque Bank and Trust Company, Galena State Bank & Trust Co., First Community Bank, Riverside Community Bank, Wisconsin Community Bank and New Mexico Bank & Trust (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on May 12, 2008).
     
10.18(1)
 
Form of Executive Life Insurance Bonus Plan effective December 31, 2007, between Heartland Financial USA, Inc. and selected officers of Heartland Financial USA, Inc. and its subsidiaries, including a subsequent amendment effective December 31, 2007 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.18 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 16, 2009).
     
10.19(1)
 
Form of Split-Dollar Agreement effective November 1, 2008, between the subsidiaries of Heartland Financial USA, Inc. and their selected officers. These plans are in place at Dubuque Bank and Trust Company, Galena State Bank & Trust Co., First Community Bank, Riverside Community Bank, Wisconsin Community Bank, New Mexico Bank & Trust, Arizona Bank & Trust and Citizens Finance Co. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.19 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 16, 2009).
     
10.20
 
Letter Agreement, dated December 19, 2008, including the Securities Purchase Agreement — Standard Terms, between the Company and the United States Department of the Treasury (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 22, 2008).
     
10.21
 
Form of Waiver, executed by each Messrs. Lynn B. Fuller, John K. Schmidt, Kenneth J. Erickson, Douglas J. Horstmann and Edward H. Everts (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 22, 2008).
     
10.22(1)
 
Form of Consent, executed by each Messrs. Lynn B. Fuller, John K. Schmidt, Kenneth J. Erickson, Douglas J. Horstmann and Edward H. Everts as to adoption of amendments to Benefit Plans as required by Section 111(b) of EESA (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 22, 2008).
     
10.23(1)(2)
 
Form of Agreement for Heartland Financial USA, Inc.  2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan Performance Restricted Stock Unit Agreement with those individuals subject to settlement restrictions due to Heartland’s participation in the United States Treasury’s Troubled Asset Relief Program.
     
10.24(1)(2)
 
Form of Agreement for Heartland Financial USA, Inc.  2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan Performance Restricted Stock Unit Agreement with those individuals not subject to settlement restrictions due to Heartland’s participation in the United States Treasury’s Troubled Asset Relief Program..
     
11(2)
 
Statement re Computation of Per Share Earnings.
     
21.1(2)
 
Subsidiaries of the Registrant.
     
23.1(2)
 
Consent of KPMG LLP.
     
31.1(2)
 
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-15.
     
31.2(2)
 
Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-15.
     
32.1(2)
 
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
     
32.2(2)
 
Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
     
99.1(2)
 
First Fiscal Year Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 111(b) of the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008.
     
99.2(2)
 
First Fiscal Year Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 111(b) of the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008.

(1)  
Management contracts or compensatory plans or arrangements.
(2)  
Filed herewith.