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California BanCorp

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FY2008 Annual Report · California BanCorp
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...defined by the company we keep.

2008 Annual Report

California Bank of Commerce

Fellow Shareholders:

2008.  Our first full year in business. It would be facile to rail at you about margin compression, the faltering 
economy,  sorry  regulators,  Wall  Street  greed,  the  national  debt,  the  imploding  Dow,  collapsing  home  prices, 
high unemployment, the mortgage crisis, the liquidity crisis, phantom banks, nationalized banks, bailout banks, 
investment banks, politicians, and rating agencies.  The great ship of the State of California turned turtle.  An entire 
overheated globe – inflated, but now with air rushing out through many holes.    

Bad  things  happened.    But,  with  an  experienced  management  team  and  staff,  the  engaged  support  of  our 
shareholders  and  board,  we  met  the  challenge  and  made  significant  progress  throughout  our  first  full  year  in 
business. 

Loans:  In the three months ending December 31, Total Loans grew by 25%, to $97 million from $78 million at 
the end of September, 2008.  During the course of 2008, the Bank grew its loan portfolio more than five-fold, 
extending $79 million of new loans.  At year end, 45% of our loan portfolio consisted of loans made for operating 
purposes to Bay Area businesses.  Commercial real estate (CRE) loans comprised 40% of our loan portfolio and 
construction  loans,  consisting  of  commercial  and  residential  projects  comprised  8%.    The  remainder  of  loans 
outstanding at year-end consisted of personal loans made to individuals, often the owners or senior executives of 
our business clients. 

We  are  differentiated  from  our  competitors  by  our  primary  focus  on  owner  operated  businesses  and  their 
management teams. We are not a residential mortgage lender.  At year-end, less than 1% of our loans were for 
speculative residential construction projects.  At December 31, the Bank had no delinquent or non-performing 
loans.  In our 17 months in business, our loan portfolio has been examined twice by Federal regulators, twice by 
our independent auditors, and twice by an independent loan review team retained by the Audit Committee of the 
Board.  We are confident that our loan portfolio is sound.

Deposits and Treasury Management Consulting:  For the three months ending December 31, the Bank’s Total 
Deposits grew by 16% to $111 million, from $95 million at the end of September, 2008.  During the course of 
2008, the Bank grew its deposit base three-fold, accepting net new deposits of $82 million.  At December 31, 16% 
of our Total Deposits were non-interest-bearing operating accounts, primarily from business clients.

Our approach to business clients involves equal measures of consultation and technology.  Our expert treasury 
management staff examines every opportunity to make customers safer and save them money.  We are proponents 
of digital check deposit because it serves our clients well: it is secure; it is ecologically sound; it is convenient and 
inexpensive; it is almost real time - processing and deposit floats are reduced to overnight.  The digital system 
also suits us because it allows clients with diverse geographic operations to maintain all their operating accounts 
with us.  It also eliminates the need for a branch system and costly courier services.  At year-end, we had deployed 
68 Digital Check Deposit  scanners  to 54  Bay Area business clients who have operations  in  7 states including:  
California,  Kentucky,  Maryland,  two  locations  In  North  Dakota,  three  locations  in  Nebraska,  two  in  Iowa,  and 
Washington State.   

1

California Bank of Commerce

Our digital deposit system improves business client cash flow, reduces employee costs and speeds notification of 
returned items.  The system is now handling an average of 2,000 checks totaling $7.5 million per week.  We are 
proud of these relationships because it is here that our brand of service and technology come most effectively to 
bear and where the bond of loyalty, in both directions, is strongest.

Investments and Liquidity:  We focus every day on being prepared to fund the next loan or deposit withdrawal.  
At year-end, the Bank had more than $23 million of cash and equivalents on the balance sheet, equaling a little 
over 17% of Total Assets.  Although our investment portfolio was negatively impacted by our holding of Fannie 
Mae preferred shares after Fannie Mae was taken over by the U.S. Treasury Department, our remaining investment 
portfolio is of high quality and it is carried on our books net of an unrealized gain as of the date of this writing.  To 
further protect liquidity, the Bank has arranged numerous short and long term credit facilities with correspondent 
banks, the Federal Reserve Bank and the Federal Home Loan Bank. 

Capital Adequacy:    In  consultation  with  both  State  and  Federal  regulators,  we  pay  close  attention  to  Capital 
adequacy,  both  as  to  the  Bank’s  current  configuration  and  as  to  its  projected  growth  and  mix  of  assets  and 
liabilities.  It has been, and will continue to be, our practice to give wide berth to regulatory requirements for 
a  well  capitalized  bank.    Our  capital  tables  are  noted  elsewhere  in  this  report  and  they  reveal  a  healthy,  well 
capitalized institution – one that is in the upper quartile of all banks in this state and throughout the nation.  Our 
recent decision to participate in Treasury Department’s Capital Purchase Plan was taken in the spirit of promoting 
economic recovery and to reinforce our ability to continue taking deposits and making new loans.

Our prospects going forward:  It would be foolish to suggest that we will be unaffected by an adverse economy 
in 2009.  We have adjusted our goals appropriately and we will remain focused on building shareholder value.  We 
intend to continue growing in a responsible and prudent manner.  We see promising opportunities to partner with 
strong businesses and entrepreneurs to ensure that they get the loans and services they deserve.

John Rossell
President and Chief Executive Officer

Edward B. Collins
Chairman of the Board

2

California Bank of Commerce

Financial Highlights:

In 2008, Fed rate cuts made margins a challenge...

but, we grew deposits...

Avg. Prim

e Rate

n
i
g
r
a
M

t
s
e
r
e
t
n

I

t
e
N

3.40%

3.20%

3.00%

2.80%

2.60%

2.40%

2.20%

2.00%

8.00%

7.00%

6.00%

5.00%

4.00%

3.00%

2.00%

e
t
a
R
e
m

i
r
P
.
g
v
A

$120,000 

$100,000 

$80,000 

$60,000 

$40,000 

$20,000 

$-

4Q 2007

1Q 2008

2Q 2008

3Q 2008

4Q 2008

4Q 2007

1Q 2008

2Q 2008

3Q 2008

4Q 2008

Avg. Prime Rate & Net Interest Margin (percent)

Total Deposits (in thousands)

...to fund new loans

...and strengthen our asset mix in favor of loans

$120,000 

$100,000 

$80,000 

$60,000 

$40,000 

$20,000 

$-

$160,000 

$140,000 

$120,000 

$100,000 

$80,000 

$60,000 

$40,000 

$20,000 

$-

51%

41%

33%

62%

70%

4Q 2007

1Q 2008

2Q 2008

3Q 2008

4Q 2008

4Q 2007
Cash

1Q 2008
Investments

2Q 2008

3Q 2008

4Q 2008

Loans

Other

Total Loans (in thousands)

Total Assets (in thousands)

...resulting in lower overhead as a percent of assets

...and steady growth in net interest income.

12.00%

10.00%

8.00%

6.00%

4.00%

2.00%

0.00%

$1,200 

$1,000 

$800 

$600 

$400 

$200 

$-

4Q 2007

1Q 2008

2Q 2008

3Q 2008

4Q 2008

4Q 2007

1Q 2008

2Q 2008

3Q 2008

4Q 2008

Overhead as a percent of Average Assets (percent)

Net Interest Income (in thousands)

3

 
 
 
 
California Bank of Commerce

Board of Directors 

Executive Officers

John E. Rossell III
President and Chief Executive Officer

Virginia M. Robbins
Chief Administrative Officer

Randall D. Greenfield
Chief Financial Officer

John E. Lindstedt
Chief Credit Officer

Mark A. DeVincenzi
Chief Marketing Officer
& EVP Investor Relations

Thomas M. Park
Executive Vice President

Steven E. Shelton
Executive Vice President

Stephen P. Tessler
Executive Vice President

Edward B. Collins
Chairman of the Board, 
California Bank of Commerce
Retired, Partner and Managing Director ChinaVest

Stephen A. Cortese
Vice Chairman of the Board, 
California Bank of Commerce
Managing Partner, Cortese Investments

John E. Rossell III
President and CEO, California Bank of Commerce

Peter W. Branagh
President, Branagh Development, Inc.

Kevin J. Cullen
Chief Financial Officer, Guarantee Glass, Inc.

Stephen R. Dathe
Vice President and General Manager
A & B Die Casting Company

Stuart J. Kahn
President, United Growth Companies

Bradley S. Kisner
President, Triangle Digital INX Company

Rochelle G. Klein
Advisory Director, Ocean Gate Capital Management

John E. Lindstedt
Chief Credit Officer, California Bank of Commerce

Thomas R. Morehouse
Retired President, Filesafe Inc.

John H. Sears
Retired, Special Counsel
Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton

Edmond E. Traille
Managing Partner, S. J. Gallina & Co., LLP

4

...and steady growth in net interest income.

 
 
 
California Bank of Commerce

Organizers  

Our  Organizers  share  a  vision  of  California  Bank  of  Commerce  and  they  put 
their  time,  their  money,  and  their  reputations  on  the  line  to  make  it  happen.    We 
thank  all  of  them  for  their  contribution  and  commitment  to  building  this  Bank.

Andy and Denise Armanino  Danville, CA
Danville, CA
Charles and Judith Bellig 
Danville, CA
John and Susan Bellig   
Moraga, CA
Mike and Patrice Botto  
San Francisco, CA
Peter and Mona Branagh 
Alamo, CA
Joe and Jodie Brescia   
Newport Beach, CA
Ray and Terry Brown 
Orinda, CA
Jeff and Patty Calder 
Orinda, CA
Sandy and Jean Colen   
San Francisco, CA
Ted and Margaret Collins 
Jerry Condon   
Orinda, CA
Michael and Darcy Cookson  Walnut Creek, CA
Steve and Ann Cortese  
Jack and Jackie Cullen  
Kevin and Amy Cullen   
Steve and Elaine Dathe 
Richard and Nancy Doyle 
Joe and Jackie Duffel   
Doug and Lori Fowler  
John and Leslie French 
Rob and Laurie Fuller   
Claude and Jackie Gaubert 
Barry and Mary Gilbert 
Mollie and Greg Gilbert 

Orinda, CA
Orinda, CA
Lafayette, CA
Orinda, CA
Lafayette, CA
Orinda, CA
Lafayette, CA
Orinda, CA
Orinda, CA
Lafayette, CA
Alameda, CA
Oakland, CA

  Orinda, CA
Stu and Sally Kahn 
  Lafayette, CA
Brad and Jeanne Kisner 
  Lafayette, CA
Ken Kisner 
  Hillsborough, CA
Paul and Vicki Klapper 
  Lafayette, CA
Roxy and Steve Klein 
  Lafayette, CA
Bob and Judy Locker 
David and Marsha Maiero 
  Belmont, CA
John and Nancy Montgomery    Orinda, CA
  Orinda, CA
Tom and Carol Morehouse 
  Lafayette, CA
Terry and Linda Murray 
  San Francisco, CA
Guy and Maria Muzio   
  Mill Valley, CA
J.P. and Jane Oosterbaan 
  Orinda, CA
Tom and Sue Park 
  Walnut Creek, CA
Paul Remack 
  Walnut Creek, CA
Dave and Lori Sanson   
  San Francisco, CA
Hans Schroeder 
  Orinda, CA
Dan and Denise Siri 
  Orinda, CA
Randy and Kathryn Soso 
  Orinda, CA
Bill and Sherry Stevenson 
  Orinda, CA
Mark and Kristi Swimmer 
  Walnut Creek, CA
Steve and Trish Thomas 
  Moraga, CA
Ed and Mary Traille 
  Oakland, CA
Bruce and Patti Westphal 
Dick and Lorraine Whitehurst    Alamo, CA
Steve and Linda Wight   

  Lafayette, CA

5

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
California Bank of Commerce

...defined by the

B C McCosker Construction Company, Inc.
General Engineering Contractor

Shaw  Pipeline    Inc.

eLLWOOD COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE 

The Corporation for Manufacturing Excellence

6

California Bank of Commerce

company we keep.

California Trenchless, Inc.

BAY CITIES 
PAVING  & 
GRADING

All et, All theTime

Tahoe Asphalt

fi

Bayside Insulation, Inc.

7

California Bank of Commerce

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT

One Embarcadero Center, Suite 1330
San Francisco, CA 94111
www.perry-smith.com
415.576.1100

To the Board of Directors
California Bank of Commerce
Lafayette, California

We have audited the accompanying balance sheets of California Bank of Commerce as of December 
31,  2008  and  2007,  and  the  related  statements  of  operations,  changes  in  shareholders’  equity  and 
comprehensive loss and cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2008 and for the period from July 17, 
2007 (date operations commenced) to December 31, 2007.  These financial statements are the responsibility 
of the Bank’s management.  Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based 
on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States 
of America.  Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits 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 financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the 
financial position of California Bank of Commerce as of December 31, 2008 and 2007, and the results of its 
operations and its cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2008 and for the period of July 17, 2007 (date 
operations commenced) to December 31, 2007, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted 
in the United States of America.

March 20, 2009

8

California Bank of Commerce

BALANCE SHEET
December 31, 2008 and 2007

ASSETS

Cash and due from banks 
Federal funds sold  

2008 

2007 

$ 

1,753,770  $ 
4,825,000 

1,355,160
16,440,000

  Total cash and cash equivalents 

6,578,770 

17,795,160

Interest-bearing deposits in banks 
Investment securities (Note 4)
   Available-for-sale, at estimated fair value 
   Held to maturity, at amortized cost 
Loans held for sale (Note 1) 
Loans, less allowance for loan losses of $1,400,000 in 
  2008 and $248,000 in 2007 (Notes 5, 9, 10 and 13) 
Premises and equipment, net (Note 6) 
Accrued interest receivable and other assets 

914,651 

 - 

31,869,637 
 -  
490,000 

95,730,266 
520,571 
1,313,210 

9,839,952
7,156,045
-

17,662,514
414,157
494,652

  Total assets 

$  137,417,105  $ 

53,362,480

LIABILITIES AND
 SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Deposits:
  Non-interest bearing  

Interest bearing (Note 7) 

  Total deposits 

$ 

17,787,276  $ 
92,722,908 

4,191,879
24,136,944

110,510,184 

28,328,823

Long-term borrowings (Note 9) 
Accrued interest payable and other liabilities (Note 14) 

6,000,000 
573,584 

- 
243,692

  Total liabilities 

117,083,768 

28,572,515

Commitments and contingencies (Notes 9 and 10) 

Shareholders’ equity (Notes 11 and 12):
   Preferred stock – no par value; 10,000,000 shares
      authorized; none outstanding 
  Common stock - no par value; 40,000,000 shares
  authorized; 2,750,000 issued and outstanding 

      in 2008 and 2007 
  Accumulated deficit (including net pre-opening expenses
      of $1,275,347) (Note 2)  
  Accumulated other comprehensive income, 

  net of taxes (Notes 4 and 15) 

 -  

 -  

28,540,035 

27,821,247

(8,361,480) 

(3,107,872)

154,782 

76,590

  Total shareholders’ equity 

20,333,337 

24,789,965

  Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity 

$  137,417,105  $ 

53,362,480

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

9

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
     
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
California Bank of Commerce

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
For the Year Ended December 31, 2008 and 
the Period from July 17, 2007 (Date Operations Commenced) to December 31, 2007

Interest income:

Interest and fees on loans 
Interest on investment securities 
Interest on Federal funds sold 
Interest on deposits in banks 

2008 

2007 

$ 

2,956,465  $ 
1,096,087 
230,998 
189,814 

 -

122,508
164,125
630,034

  Total interest income 

4,473,364 

916,667

Interest expense:

Interest on deposits (Note 7) 
Interest on long-term borrowings (Note 9) 

  Total interest expense 

  Net interest income before provision for loan

losses 

Provision for loan losses (Note 5) 

  Net interest income after provision for 

loan losses 

Non-interest income:
  Service charges and fees 
   Dividends on preferred stock 
  Net gains on sales of loans 
  Net gains on sales of investment securities (Note 4) 
  Other  

Total non-interest income 

Non-interest expenses:
  Salaries and employee benefits (Notes 5 and 14) 
  Occupancy and equipment (Note 6) 

Impairment charge on available-for-sale 
  securities (Note 4) 

  Other (Note 15) 

1,475,944 
4,995 

 -

231,533

1,480,939 

231,533

2,992,425 

685,134

1,152,000 

248,000

1,840,425 

437,134

29,838 
93,187 
151,249 
130,778 
62,871 

467,923 

3,541,863 
645,849 

2,045,875 
1,327,569 

111
-
-
1,122
8,254

9,487

1,410,347
198,659

-
670,140

  Total non-interest expense 

7,561,156 

2,279,146

  Loss before provision for income taxes 

(5,252,808)   

(1,832,525)

Provision for income taxes (Note 8) 

800 

 -

  Net loss 

Basic loss per share  

$ 

$ 

(5,253,608)  $ 

(1,832,525)

(1.91)  $               (0.67)

Weighted average number of shares outstanding 

2,750,000 

          2,750,000

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

10

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
    
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
California Bank of Commerce

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDER’S EQUITY AND COMPREHENSIVE LOSS
For the Year Ended December 31, 2008 and 
the Period from July 17, 2007 (Date Operations Commenced) to December 31, 2007

Common Stock

Share

Amount

Accumulated 
Deficit

Accumulated 
Other 
Compre- 
hensive 
Income
(Net of 
Taxes)

Total
Shareholders’ 
Equity

Total
Compre-
hensive
 Loss

2,750,000

$  27,499,181

$  (1,275,347)

$                 -

$  26,223,834

$                -

(1,832,525)

    (1,832,525)

(1,832,525)

76,590

76,590

76,590     

$  (1,755,935)

322,066

322,066

Balance, July 17, 2007
  (date operations commenced)

Comprehensive loss (Note 15)

Net loss

Net change in unrealized 

gains on available-
for-sale investment 
securities, net of taxes

Total comprehensive loss

Share-based compensation 
expense  (Note 11)

Balance, December 31, 2007 

2,750,000

27,821,247

(3,107,872)

76,590

24,789,965

Comprehensive loss (Note 15)

Net loss

Other comprehensive income:

Net change in unrealized 

gains on available-
for-sale investment 
securities, net of taxes

Total comprehensive loss

Share-based compensation 
expense  (Note 11)

(5,253,608)

(5,253,608)

(5,253,608)

78,192

78,192

78,192

$  (5,175,416)

718,788

718,788

Balance, December 31, 2008

2,750,000

$  28,540,035

$  (8,361,480)

$      154,782

$  20,333,337

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

11

California Bank of Commerce

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
For the Year Ended December 31, 2008 and 
the Period from July 17, 2007 (Date Operations Commenced) to December 31, 2007

Cash flows from operating activities:
  Net loss 
  Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash

  used in operating activities:
  Provision for loan losses 

Impairment charge on securities available-for-sale 

  Depreciation 
  Deferred loan origination costs, net 
  Change in amortization (accretion) of investment

  security premiums (discounts), net 
  Share-based compensation expense 
  Gain on sale of investment securities, net 

Increase in loans held for sale 
Increase in accrued interest receivable
  and other assets 
Increase (decrease) in accrued interest payable 
  and other liabilities 

2008 

2007 

$ 

(5,253,608)  $ 

(1,832,525)

1,152,000 
2,045,875 
143,903 
(247,682)   

(11,158)   
718,788 
(130,778)   
(490,000)   

248,000
-
28,426
(106,800)

(15,607)
322,066
(1,122)
-

(346,558)   

(204,526)

275,555 

(76,764)

  Net cash used in operating activities 

(2,143,663)   

(1,638,852)

Cash flows from investing activities:
  Purchase of interest-bearing deposits in banks 
  Purchase of available-for-sale investment securities 
  Proceeds from sales of available-for-sale investment securities 
  Purchase of held-to-maturity investment securities 
  Proceeds from principal payments on 

  available-for-sale investment securities 

  Proceeds from principal payments on 

  held-to-maturity investment securities 

  Net increase in loans 
  Purchases of premises and equipment 
  Gain on sale of equipment 
  Purchase of Federal Home Loan Bank stock 
  Purchase of the Independent Banker’s Bank stock 
  Purchase of Pacific Coast Bankers Bank stock 

(914,651)   
(48,545,519)   
29,301,080 
- 

-
(12,881,570)
2,967,335
(7,222,729) 

1,597,353 

220,054

1,002,036 
(78,972,070)   
(250,427)   

110 

(282,000)   

- 

(190,000)   -

67,456
(17,803,714)
(312,906)
-
-
(50,419)

  Net cash used in investing activities 

(97,254,088)   

(35,016,493)

(Continued)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

12

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
California Bank of Commerce

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS (continued)
For the Year Ended December 31, 2008 and 
the Period from July 17, 2007 (Date Operations Commenced) to December 31, 2007

Cash flows from financing activities:

Increase in demand, interest bearing and
  savings deposits 

  Net increase in time deposits 
  Proceeds from borrowings from Federal Home Loan Bank 
  Re-payment of pre-opening advances from organizers 

2008 

2007 

45,797,738  $ 
36,383,623 
6,000,000 

$ 

 -

23,911,841
4,416,982
-
(1,530,000)

  Net cash provided by financing activities 

88,181,361 

26,798,823

  Decrease in cash and cash equivalents 

(11,216,390)   

(9,856,522)

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period 

17,795,160 

27,651,682

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period 

$ 

6,578,770  $ 

17,795,160

Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:

Cash paid during the year for:

Interest 
Income taxes 

Non-cash investing activities:
  Net change in unrealized gains on available-for-

  sale investment securities 

$ 
$ 

1,416,930  $ 
800  $ 

231,533
-

$ 

132,530  $ 

129,814

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

13

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1. 

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

General

California Bank of Commerce (the “Bank”) was approved as a state-chartered non-member bank on 
March 23, 2007, and commenced operations on July 17, 2007.  The Bank is subject to regulation 
by the California Department of Financial Institutions (the “DFI”) and the Federal Deposit Insurance 
Corporation (the “FDIC”).  The Bank is headquartered in Lafayette, California and provides products 
and services to customers who are predominately small to middle-market businesses, professionals 
and not-for-profit organizations located in Contra Costa and surrounding counties.

Prior to commencement of operations on July 17, 2007, the Bank was considered a development 
stage  company  and  was  engaged  in  activities  designed  to  prepare  it  for  opening.    These  pre-
opening activities included, among other things, the retention of management and staff, acquisition 
and preparation of facilities for operation, regulatory filings related to approval of the Bank’s charter, 
obtaining FDIC insurance and the sale of common stock.

The Bank’s deposits are insured by the FDIC up to applicable legal limits.  Additionally, the Bank is 
participating in the FDIC’s Transaction Account Guarantee Program.  Under this program, through 
December 31, 2009, all noninterest-bearing transaction accounts are fully guaranteed by the FDIC 
for the entire amount in the account and the Bank is assessed an annual fee of 10 basis points for 
all deposit amounts exceeding the existing deposit insurance limit of $250,000.  Coverage under the 
Transaction Account Guarantee Program is in addition to and separate from the coverage available 
under the FDIC’s general deposit insurance rules.

The  accounting  and  reporting  policies  of  the  Bank  conform  with  accounting  principles  generally 
accepted in the United States of America and prevailing practices within the banking industry.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted 
in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions.  These 
estimates  and  assumptions  affect  the reported  amounts  of assets  and  liabilities  at the date  of  the 
financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.  
Actual results could differ from these estimates.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

For the purpose of the statement of cash flows, cash and cash equivalents consist of cash and due 
from banks and Federal funds sold.  Generally, Federal funds are sold for one day periods.

14

California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1. 

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)

Investment Securities

Investment securities are classified into the following categories:

•	

•	

Available-for-sale  securities,  reported  at  fair  value,  with  unrealized  gains  and  losses 
excluded from earnings and reported, net of taxes, as accumulated other comprehensive 
income (loss) within shareholders’ equity.

Held-to-maturity securities, which management has the positive intent and ability to hold, 
reported  at  amortized  cost,  adjusted  for  the  accretion  of  discounts  and  amortization  of 
premiums.

Management  determines  the  appropriate  classification  of  its  investments  at  the  time  of  purchase.  
Subsequent transfers between categories are accounted for at fair value.  During 2008, as financial 
and credit markets deteriorated, an analysis of the Bank’s held-to-maturity (“HTM”) investment portfolio 
denominated with long maturity mortgage-backed securities issued by FNMA and FHLMC, identified 
a potential rising level of credit exposure.  As a result of this increased credit exposure, the Bank 
transferred all of its securities classified as HTM, with a fair value of $6,162,683, to the available-for-
sale classification.  The transfer and subsequent sale of these investment securities, which occurred 
during the fourth quarter of 2008, complied with specific exemptions under SFAS 115. 

During the period from July 17, 2007 (date operations commenced) to December 31, 2007 there were 
no transfers between categories.

Gains and losses on the sale of investment securities are computed using the specific identification 
method.  Interest earned on investment securities is reported in interest income, net of applicable 
adjustments for accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums.

Investment securities are periodically evaluated for impairment and more frequently when economic 
or market conditions warrant such an evaluation to determine whether a decline in their value is other 
than temporary.  Management utilizes criteria such as the magnitude and duration of the decline and 
the intent and ability of the Bank to retain its investment in the securities for a period of time sufficient 
to allow for an anticipated recovery in fair value, in addition to the reasons underlying the decline, 
to determine whether the loss in value is other than temporary.  The term “other than temporary” is 
not intended to indicate that the decline is permanent, but indicates that the prospects for a near-
term recovery of value is not necessarily favorable, or that there is a lack of evidence to support a 
realizable value equal to or greater than the carrying value of the investment.  Once a decline in value 
is determined to be other than temporary, the value of the security is reduced and a corresponding 
charge to earnings is recognized.

15

California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

1. 

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)

Investment in Federal Home Loan Bank Stock

As a member of the Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco, the Bank is required to maintain an 
investment  in the capital stock of the Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB).  The investment is carried 
at cost.  The Bank became a member during 2008 and at December 31, 2008, FHLB stock totaled 
$282,000 and is included on the balance sheet in accrued interest receivable and other assets.

Investment in Other Bank Stocks

Independent Bankers Financial Corporation

The  Independent  Bankers  Financial  Corporation  (“IBFC”),  the  holding  company  for  The 
Independent Banker’s Bank, provides services exclusively to banks.  During 2007, the Bank 
made  an  investment  in  the  capital  stock  of  IBFC.    The  investment  is  carried  at  cost.    At 
December 31, 2008 and 2007, IBFC stock totaled $50,419 and is included on the balance 
sheet in accrued interest receivable and other assets.

Pacific Coast Bankers’ Bancshares

The Pacific Coast Bankers’ Bancshares (“PCBB”), the holding company for The Pacific Coast 
Banker’s  Bank,  provides  services  exclusively  to  banks.    During  2008,  the  Bank  made  an 
investment in the capital stock of PCBB.  The investment is carried at cost.  At December 31, 
2008, PCBB stock totaled $190,000 and is included on the balance sheet in accrued interest 
receivable and other assets.

Loans

Loans are stated at principal balances outstanding.  Interest is accrued daily based upon outstanding 
loan balances.  However, when, in the opinion of management, loans are considered to be impaired 
and the future collectability of interest and principal is in serious doubt, loans are placed on nonaccrual 
status and the accrual of interest income is suspended.  Any interest accrued but unpaid is charged 
against income.  Payments received are applied to reduce principal to the extent necessary to ensure 
collection.    Subsequent  payments  on  these  loans,  or  payments  received  on  nonaccrual  loans  for 
which  the  ultimate  collectability  of  principal  is  not  in  doubt,  are  applied  first  to  earned  but  unpaid 
interest and then to principal.

An impaired loan is measured based on the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at 
the loan’s effective rate or, as a practical matter, at the loan’s observable market price or the fair value 
of collateral if the loan is collateral dependent.  A loan is considered impaired when, based on current 
information and events, it is probable that the Bank will be unable to collect all amounts due (including 
both principal and interest) in accordance with the contractual terms of the loan agreement.

16

 
California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1. 

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)

Loans (Continued)

Substantially all loan origination fees, commitment fees, direct loan origination costs and purchase 
premiums  and  discounts  on  loans  are  deferred  and  recognized  as  an  adjustment  of  yield,  to  be 
amortized  to  interest  income  over  the  contractual  term  of  the  loan.    The  unamortized  balance  of 
deferred fees and costs is reported as a component of net loans.

The  Bank  services  loans  that  have  been  participated  with  other  financial  institutions  totaling 
approximately $8,165,435 as of December 31, 2008.  The participated balances of these loans were 
sold without recourse and are not included on the Bank’s balance sheet.

Loans held for sale are valued at the lower of cost or fair market value.

Allowance for Loan Losses

The  allowance  for  loan  losses  (the  “allowance”)  is  established  through  a  provision  for  loan  losses 
which is charged to expense.  Additions to the allowance are expected to maintain the adequacy of 
the total allowance after credit losses (net of recoveries) and loan growth.  The allowance for loan 
losses at December 31, 2008 reflects management’s estimate of probable losses in the portfolio.

The allowance is maintained to provide for losses related to impaired loans and other losses that can 
be expected to occur in the normal course of business.  The determination of the allowance is based 
on estimates made by management, to include consideration of the character of the loan portfolio, 
specifically identified problem loans, potential losses inherent in the portfolio taken as a whole, and 
economic conditions in the Bank’s service area.

Loans determined to be impaired or classified are individually evaluated by management for specific 
risk  of  loss.    In  addition,  reserve  factors  are  assigned  to  currently  performing  loans  based  on 
management’s assessment of the following for each identified loan type: (1) inherent credit risk, (2) 
historical losses and (3) where the Bank has not experienced losses, the loss experience of peer 
banks, and (4) other qualitative factors.

The  Bank  maintains  a  separate  allowance  for  losses  related  to  undisbursed  loan  commitments. 
Management  estimates  the  amount  of  probable  losses  by  applying  a  loss  factor  to  the  available 
portion of undisbursed lines of credit.  This allowance of $60,000 and $12,000, at December 31, 2008 
and 2007, respectively, is included in accrued interest payable and other liabilities on the balance 
sheet.

These  estimates  are  particularly  susceptible  to  changes  in  the  economic  environment  and  market 
conditions.

17

California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

1. 

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)

Allowance for Loan Losses (Continued)

The Bank’s Directors’ Loan Committee reviewed the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses at 
December 31, 2007, and quarterly during 2008.  The allowance will be adjusted based on that review 
if, in the judgment of the Directors’ Loan Committee and management, changes are warranted.

In addition, the FDIC and California Department of Financial Institutions, as an integral part of their 
examination process, review the adequacy of the allowance.  These agencies may require additions to 
the allowance based on their judgment about information available at the time of their examinations. 

Sales and Servicing of Government Guaranteed Loans

During 2008 the Bank originated loans which, in general are 70 to 85 percent guaranteed by either 
the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) or the Small Business Administration (SBA).  The Bank 
recorded a gain of $151,249 on the sale of the guaranteed portion of two of these loans in 2008.   The 
Bank’s investment in the loans is allocated between the retained portion of the loan, the servicing 
asset,  the  interest  only  strip  and  the  sold  portion  of  the  loan.    The  carrying  value  of  the  retained 
portion is discounted based on the estimated yield of a comparable non-guaranteed loan.  The value 
of servicing assets and interest only strips related to these loans is not significant at December 31, 
2008.  

Bank Premises and Equipment

Bank premises and equipment are carried at cost.  Depreciation is determined using the straight-line 
method over the estimated useful lives of the related assets. The useful lives of furniture, fixtures and 
equipment are estimated to be 3 to 5 years.  Leasehold improvements are amortized over the lesser 
of the respective lease term (including renewal periods that are reasonably assured) or their useful 
lives, which are generally 7 to 14 years. 

Certain  operating  leases  contain  scheduled  and  specified  rent  increases  or  incentives  in  the  form 
of  tenant  improvement  allowances  or  credits.   The  scheduled  rent  increases  are  recognized  on  a 
straight-line basis over the lease term as an increase in the amount of rental expense recognized 
each  period.    Lease  incentives  are  capitalized  at  the  inception  of  the  lease  and  amortized  on  a 
straight-line basis over the lease term as a reduction of rental expense.  Amounts accrued in excess 
of amounts paid related to the scheduled rent increases and the unamortized deferred credits are 
included in accrued interest payable and other liabilities on the balance sheet.

When assets are sold or otherwise disposed of, the cost and related accumulated depreciation or 
amortization are removed from the accounts, and any resulting gain or loss is recognized in income 
for the period.  The cost of maintenance and repairs is charged to expense as incurred.  The Bank 
evaluates premises and equipment for financial impairment as events or changes in circumstances 
indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be fully recoverable.

18

California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

1. 

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)

Income Taxes

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the tax consequences of temporary differences 
between the reported amount of assets and liabilities and their tax basis.  Deferred tax assets and 
liabilities  are  adjusted  for  the  effects  of  changes  in  tax  laws  and  rates  on  the  date  of  enactment.  
A  valuation  allowance  is  recognized  if,  based  on  the  weight  of  available  evidence,  management 
believes it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.  
At December 31, 2008 and 2007, the bank established a valuation allowance for substantially all of 
its net deferred tax position.

Accounting for Uncertainly in Income Taxes

The  Bank  considers  all  tax  positions  recognized  in  its  financial  statements  for  the  likelihood  of 
realization.  When tax returns are filed, it is highly certain that some positions taken would be sustained 
upon examination by the taxing authorities, while others are subject to uncertainly about the merits 
of the position taken or the amount of the position that would be ultimately sustained.  The benefit 
of a tax position is recognized in the financial statements in the period during which, based on all 
available evidence, management believes it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained 
upon examination, including the resolution of appeals or litigation processes, if any.  Tax positions 
taken are not offset or aggregated with other positions.  Tax positions that meet the more-likely-than-
not recognition threshold area measured as the largest amount of the tax benefit that is more than 
50 percent likely of being realized upon settlement with the applicable taxing authority.  The portion 
of the benefits associated with tax positions taken that exceeds the amount measured as described 
above  is  reflected  as  a  liability  for  unrecognized  tax  benefits  in  the  accompanying  balance  sheet 
along with any associated interest and penalties that would be payable to the taxing authorities upon 
examination.  Interest expense and penalties associated with unrecognized tax benefits, if any, are 
classified as income tax expense in the statement of operations.  

Earnings (Loss) Per Share

Basic earnings (loss) per share (EPS), which excludes dilution, is computed by dividing net income 
(loss)  by  the  weighted-average  number  of  common  shares  outstanding  for  the  period.    Diluted 
earnings (loss) per share reflects the potential dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts 
to issue common stock, such as stock options, result in the issuance of common stock which share in 
the earnings (loss) of the Bank.  The treasury stock method is applied to determine the dilutive effect 
of stock options in computing diluted earnings (loss) per share.  However, diluted earnings (loss) per 
share is not presented when a net loss occurs because the conversion of potential common stock is 
anti-dilutive. 

Share-Based Payments

The Bank has one share-based compensation plan, the California Bank of Commerce 2007 Equity 
Incentive Plan (the “Plan”), which has been approved by its shareholders and permits the grant of 
stock options and restricted stock for up to 825,000 shares of the Bank’s common stock.  The Plan is 
designed to attract and retain employees and directors.  The amount, frequency, and terms of share-
based awards may vary based on competitive practices, the Bank’s operating results and government 
regulations.  New shares are issued upon option exercise or restricted share grants.

19

 
California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

1. 

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)

Share-Based Payments (Continued)

The Plan does not provide for the settlement of awards in cash.  The Plan requires that the option 
price may not be less than the fair market value of the stock at the date the option is granted, and that 
the stock must be paid in full at the time the option is exercised.

Restricted  stock  awards  are  grants  of  shares  of  common  stock  that  are  subject  to  forfeiture  until 
specific conditions or goals are met.  Conditions may be based on continuing employment or achieving 
specified  performance  goals.    During  the  period  of  restriction,  participants  holding  restricted  stock 
may have full voting and dividend rights.  The restrictions lapse in accordance with a schedule or 
with other conditions determined by the Board of Directors.  No awards of restricted stock were made 
during the period from July 17, 2007 (date operations commenced) to December 31, 2008.

The  Bank  recognizes  share-based  compensation  expense  be  recorded  for  all  stock  options  that 
are ultimately expected to vest as the requisite service is rendered, which is generally the vesting 
period.

Management estimates the fair value of each option award as of the date of grant using a Black-
Scholes-Merton option pricing formula.  Expected volatility is based on historical volatility of similar 
entities  over  a  preceding  period  commensurate  with  the  expected  term  of  the  option  because  the 
Bank’s common stock has been publicly traded for a shorter period than the expected term for the 
options.    The  “simplified”  method  described  in  SEC  Staff  Accounting  Bulletin  (SAB)  No.  107,  as 
amended, by SAB No. 110 is used to determine the expected term of our options due to the lack of 
sufficient historical data. 

The risk-free rate for the expected term of the option is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in 
effect at the time of grant.  Expected dividend yield was not considered in the option pricing formula 
since we have not paid dividends and have no current plans to do so in the future.  In addition to these 
assumptions, management makes estimates regarding pre-vesting forfeitures that will impact total 
compensation expense recognized under the Plan.

Comprehensive Income (Loss)

Comprehensive  income  (loss)  is  a  more  inclusive  financial  reporting  methodology  that  includes 
disclosure of other comprehensive income or loss that historically has not been recognized  in the 
calculation of net income or loss.  Sources of other comprehensive income or loss include unrealized 
gains and losses on available-for-sale investment securities.  Total comprehensive income (loss) and 
components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) are presented in the statement of 
changes in shareholders’ equity and comprehensive loss.

20

California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

1. 

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)

Impact of New Financial Accounting Standards

Fair Value Measurements

In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, Fair Value Measurements, which defines and 
establishes a framework for measuring fair value used in FASB pronouncements issued by FASB 
that require or permit fair value measurement.  This statement expands disclosures using fair value 
to  measure  assets  and  liabilities  in  interim  and  annual  periods  subsequent  to  the  period  of  initial 
recognition.    SFAS  No.  157  is  effective  for  financial  statements  issued  for  fiscal  years  beginning 
after November 15, 2007, and interim periods within those years.  The Bank adopted SFAS 157 on 
January  1,  2008  and  its  adoption  did  not  have  a  material  impact  on  the  Bank’s  financial  position, 
results of operations or cash flows.  See Note 3 - Fair Value Measurements.

Determining the Fair Value of a Financial Asset When the Market for That Asset Is Not Active

In  October  2008,  FASB  issued  FASB  Staff  Position  (FSP)  Financial  Accounting  Standard  157-3, 
Determining the Fair Value of a Financial Asset When the Market for That Asset Is Not Active.  The 
FSP  clarifies  the  application  of  FASB  Statement  No.  157,  Fair  Value  Measurements  and  provides 
an  example  to  illustrate  key  considerations  in  determining  the  fair  value  of  a  financial  asset  when 
the market for that financial asset is not active.  The FSP is effective immediately, and includes prior 
period financial statements that have not yet been issued.  The Bank is subject to the provisions of the 
FSP effective immediately; however, the impact of adoption was not material to the Bank’s financial 
condition, results of operations or cash flows.

The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities 

In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159 (SFAS 159), The Fair Value Option for Financial 
Assets and Financial Liabilities, including an Amendment of FASB Statement No. 115.  SFAS No.159 
permits fair value accounting to be irrevocably elected for certain financial assets and liabilities on 
an  individual  contract  basis  at  the  time  of  acquisition,  or  at  a  re-measurement  event  date.    Upon 
adoption  of SFAS No. 159, fair value accounting may also be elected for existing financial assets 
and liabilities.  For those instruments for which fair value accounting is elected, changes in fair value 
will be recognized in earnings and fees and costs associated with origination or acquisition will be 
recognized as incurred rather than deferred. The Bank adopted SFAS 159 on January 1, 2008, but 
did not elect the fair value option for any assets or liabilities for the year ended December 31, 2008.

21

California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

1. 

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)

Business Combinations

In December 2007, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 141 (revised 
2007), Business Combinations (SFAS No. 141R).  SFAS No. 141(R), among other things, establishes 
principles  and  requirements  for  how  the  acquirer  in  a  business  combination  (i)  recognizes  and 
measures in its financial statements the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed, and any 
non-controlling interest in the acquired business, (ii) recognizes and measures the goodwill acquired 
in the business combination or a gain from a bargain purchase, and (iii) determines what information to 
disclose to enable users of the financial statements to evaluate the nature and financial effects of the 
business combination.  The Bank is required to adopt SFAS No. 141(R) for all business combinations 
for which the acquisition date is on or after January 1, 2009.  Earlier adoption is prohibited.  This 
Standard will change the Bank’s accounting treatment for business combinations on a prospective 
basis. 

The Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles

In  May  2008,  the  FASB  issued  SFAS  No.  162,  The  Hierarchy  of  Generally  Accepted  Accounting 
Principles (SFAS No. 162).  This standard identifies a consistent framework, or hierarchy, for selecting 
accounting principles to be used in preparing financial statements that are presented in conformity 
with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) for nongovernmental entities.

It  establishes  that  the  GAAP  hierarchy  should  be  directed  to  entities  because  it  is  the  entity  (not 
the auditor) that is responsible for selecting accounting principles for financial statements that are 
presented in conformity with GAAP.  SFAS No. 162 is effective November 15, 2008.  The adoption of 
this Statement did not have any effect on the Bank’s financial position, results of operations or cash 
flows.

2. 

PRE-OPENING ACTIVITIES

Prior to commencement of operations on July 17, 2007, the Bank was considered a development 
stage company and was engaged in activities designed to prepare it for opening as an FDIC-insured 
financial  institution.    The  Bank  received  its  initial  funding  during  this  period  from  directors  and 
organizers in the form of interest free loans.  

The initial funds were used during the development stage of the Bank to pay for salaries, legal and 
consulting expenses, rent, and the purchase and build-out of leasehold improvements and to purchase 
furniture and equipment.  These funds were repaid to the directors and organizers following approval 
by the banking regulators.  In consideration for the funding, each director and organizer received the 
lesser of (a) one option for each $20 of funding or, (b) one option with every share purchased.  The 
estimated fair value of these options was $222,224 and is included as share-based expense as part 
of pre-opening expenses.

22

California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

2. 

PRE-OPENING ACTIVITIES (Continued)

During the development stage, the Bank incurred the following pre-opening expenses, net of interest 
earned, which were charged to accumulated deficit at the date the Bank commenced operations:

Consulting and professional fees 
Share-based compensation expense 
Rent   
Other              
Interest income 

  Net pre-opening expenses 

Cash flows from organizational and pre-opening activities were as follows:

Proceeds from organizational advances from Directors and organizers 
Proceeds from sale of common stock 
Stock offering costs 
Pre-opening expenses, net of interest income of $87,958 
Share-based compensation expense 
Purchase of property and equipment 
Prepaid expenses and other assets  
Accrued liabilities 

  Cash and cash equivalents at date operations commenced 

$       1,045,959
            222,224
              31,404
63,718
             (87,958)

$       1,275,347

$       1,530,000 
       27,500,000
           (223,042) 
        (1,275,347)
222,224
           (129,677)
           (239,708) 
             267,232

$     27,651,682 

Transactions during the pre-opening period with related parties included the rental and use of office 
space in a building in which a director has a financial interest and, execution of a lease for space in 
a newly constructed retail/office building to house the Bank’s permanent headquarters office with a 
Company in which a different Director has a financial interest.

3. 

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The estimated carrying and fair values of the Bank’s financial instruments are as follows:

Financial assets:
  Cash and cash equivalents 
Interest-bearing deposits
   in banks 
Investment securities 

  Loans held for sale 
  Loans, net 
  Federal Home Loan Bank

  (FHLB) stock 

  The Independent Banker’s

  Bank stock 

Pacific Coast Banker’s

  Bank stock 

Accrued interest receivable 

Financial liabilities:
  Deposits 
  Borrowings 
  Accrued interest payable 

December 31, 2008 
Fair 
Value 

  Carrying 
  Amount 

December 31, 2007 
Fair
Value 

  Carrying 
  Amount 

$  6,578,770  $  6,578,770  $  17,795,160  $  17,795,160

914,651 
  31,869,637 
490,000 
  95,730,266 

914,651 
  31,869,637 
493,184 
  101,820,834 

- 
  16,995,997 
- 
  17,662,514 

-
  17,045,870
- 
  17,791,120 

282,000 

282,000 

- 

- 

50,419 

50,419 

50,419 

50,419   

190,000 
454,959 

190,000 
454,959 

- 
150,572 

-   

150,572

  110,510,184 
6,000,000 
64,009 

  110,471,280 
5,994,703 
64,009 

  28,323,823 
- 
- 

  28,312,729
-
-

23

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

3. 

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (Continued)

Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Continued)

These estimates do not reflect any premium or discount that could result from offering the Bank’s 
entire holdings of a particular financial instrument for sale at one time, nor do they attempt to estimate 
the value of anticipated future business related to the instruments.  In addition, the tax ramifications 
related to the realization of unrealized gains and losses can have a significant effect on fair value 
estimates and have not been considered in any of these estimates.

The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of financial instruments.  
For  cash  and  cash  equivalents,  variable-rate  loans  and  leases,  accrued  interest  receivable  and 
payable,  FHLB,  IBFC  and  PCBB  stock,  demand  deposits  and  long-term  borrowings,  the  carrying 
amount is estimated to be fair value.  For investment securities, fair values are based on quoted market 
prices, quoted market prices for similar securities and indications of value provided by brokers.  The 
fair values for fixed-rate loans and leases are estimated using discounted cash flow analyses, using 
interest rates currently being offered at each reporting date for loans with similar terms to borrowers 
of comparable creditworthiness. Fair values for fixed-rate certificates of deposit are estimated using 
discounted  cash  flow  analyses  using  interest  rates  offered  at  each  reporting  date  by  the  Bank  for 
certificates with similar remaining maturities. 

The fair values of commitments are estimated using the fees currently charged to enter into similar 
agreements and are not significant and, therefore, not included in the above table.

Fair Value Hierarchy

The Bank groups its assets and liabilities measured at fair value in three levels, based on the markets 
in which the assets and liabilities are traded and the reliability of the assumptions used to determine 
fair value.  Valuations within these levels are based upon:

Level 1 – Quoted market prices for identical instruments traded in active exchange markets.

Level 2 – Quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar 
instruments  in  markets  that  are  not  active,  and  model-based  valuation  techniques  for  which  all 
significant assumptions are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data.

Level 3 – Model-based techniques that use at least one significant assumption not observable in the 
market.  These unobservable assumptions reflect the Bank’s estimates of assumptions that market 
participants  would  use  on  pricing  the  asset  or  liability.    Valuation  techniques  include  management 
judgment and estimation which may be significant.

24

California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

3. 

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (Continued)

Assets Recorded at Fair Value

The following table presents information about the Bank’s assets and liabilities measured at fair value 
on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2008:

Recurring Basis

The Bank is required or permitted to record the following assets at fair value on a recurring basis 
under other accounting pronouncements. 

Description 

  Fair Value 

Level 1 

Level 2 

Level 3 

Available-for-sale investment
  securities 

  $  31,869,637  $ 

-  $  31,869,637  $ 

-

Fair values for available-for-sale investment securities, which include debt securities of 
U.S. Governmental agencies and U.S. Agency guaranteed mortgage-backed securities are based on 
quoted market prices for similar securities.  There were no changes in the valuation techniques used 
during 2008.

The Bank did not have any assets or liabilities measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis at 
December 31, 2008.

4. 

INVESTMENT SECURITIES

Available-for-Sale

The amortized cost and estimated fair value of available-for-sale investment securities at December 
31, 2008 and 2007 consisted of the following:

2008 

  Amortized 
Cost 

  Gross 
  Unrealized   
Gains 

  Gross 
  Unrealized   
Losses 

  Estimated
Fair
Value 

$  1,000,000  $ 

30,938  $ 

-  $  1,030,938

Debt securities:
  U.S. Government agencies 
  U.S. Agency guaranteed

  mortgage-backed securities    15,307,294 

168,113 

(3,108)    15,472,299

Other Securities:
  Money Market mutual funds 
  Preferred stock 

  15,300,000 
 -

- 
66,400 

 -

- 

  15,300,000
66,400

$  31,607,294  $ 

265,451  $ 

(3,108)  $  31,869,637

25

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

4. 

INVESTMENT SECURITIES (Continued)

Available-for-Sale (Continued)

Net  unrealized  gains  on  available-for-sale  investment  securities  totaling  $262,343  were  recorded, 
net of $107,561 in tax liabilities, as accumulated other comprehensive income within shareholders’ 
equity at December 31, 2008.  Proceeds and gross realized gains from the sale of available-for-sale 
investment  securities  for  the  year  ended  December  31,  2008  totaled  $29,301,080  and  $130,778, 
respectively.

At December 31, 2008, the Bank’s investment securities included 80,000 shares of FNMA Series S 
preferred stock.  Due to the current status of FNMA, which is in a conservatorship relationship with 
the U.S. Treasury, and the significant decline in the stock price, the Bank recorded an other-than-
temporary impairment write-down of $2,045,875, as of September 30, 2008.

2007 

  Amortized 
Cost 

  Gross 
  Unrealized   
Gains 

  Gross 
  Unrealized   
Losses 

  Estimated
Fair
Value 

Debt securities:
  U.S. Government agencies 
  U.S. Agency guaranteed

$  2,971,251  $ 

51,243  $ 

-  $  3,022,494

  mortgage-backed securities   

6,738,888 

78,570 

 -

6,817,458

$  9,710,139  $ 

129,813  $ 

-  $  9,839,952

Net  unrealized  gains  on  available-for-sale  investment  securities  totaling  $129,813  were  recorded, 
net  of  $53,223  in  tax  liabilities  as  accumulated  other  comprehensive  income  within  shareholders’ 
equity at December 31, 2007.  Proceeds and gross realized gains from the sale of available-for-sale 
investment securities for the period from July 17, 2007 (date operations commenced) to December 
31, 2007 totaled $2,967,335 and $1,122, respectively.

The amortized cost and estimated fair value of debt securities at December 31, 2008 by contractual 
maturity  are  shown  below.    Expected  maturities  will  differ  from  contractual  maturities  because 
the issuers of the securities may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or 
prepayment penalties.

After one year through
  five years 
After ten years 

Investment securities not
  due at a single maturity date:
  U.S. Agency guaranteed

  mortgage-backed
  securities 

Available-for-Sale 

    Amortized   
Cost 

  Estimated 
Fair
Value 

$  1,000,000  $  1,030,938 
66,400 
 -

1,000,000 

1,097,338 

  15,307,294 

  15,472,299 

$  16,307,294  $  16,569,637 

26

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

4. 

INVESTMENT SECURITIES (Continued)

Held-to-Maturity

All held-to-maturity investment securities were transferred to available-for-sale at fair market value 
during 2008.

2007 

  Amortized 
Cost 

  Gross 
  Unrealized   
Gains 

  Gross 
  Unrealized   
Losses 

  Estimated
Fair
Value 

Debt securities:
  U.S. Agency guaranteed

  mortgage-backed securities  $  7,156,045  $ 

49,873  $ 

-  $  7,205,918

There  were  no  sales  or  transfers  of  held-to-maturity  investment  securities  for  the  period  ended 
December 31, 2007.

U.S. Agency Guaranteed Mortgage-Backed Securities

At December 31, 2008, the Bank held one security, which was in a loss position for less than twelve 
months.    The  unrealized  loss  on  this  direct  guaranteed  mortgage-backed  obligation  of  a  U.S. 
Government Agency was caused by interest rate increases.  The Bank purchased this investment at a 
premium relative to its face amount, and the contractual cash flows of this investment are guaranteed 
by an agency of the U.S. Government.  Because the decline in market value is attributable to changes 
in interest rates and not credit quality, and because the Bank has the ability and intent to hold this 
investment  until  a  recovery  of  fair  value,  which  may  be  maturity,  the  Bank  does  not  consider  this 
investment to be other-than-temporarily-impaired, at December 31, 2008.

There were no securities in an unrealized loss position at December 31, 2007.

Investment securities with amortized costs of $16,307,294 and estimated market values of $16,569,637 
were pledged to secure State Treasury funds on deposit and borrowing arrangements in place at the 
Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco, at December 31, 2008. (See Note 9)

5. 

LOANS

Outstanding loans are summarized below:

Commercial  
Real estate - commercial 
Real estate - construction 
Real estate - residential 
Personal and installment 

Deferred loan origination costs, net 
Allowance for loan losses 

$ 

December 31, 

2008 

2007 

44,133,804  $ 
40,234,431 
7,622,415 
2,827,333 
1,957,801 

9,935,144
6,695,186
-
850,000
323,384

96,775,784 

17,803,714

354,482 
(1,400,000)   

106,800
(248,000)

$ 

95,730,266  $ 

17,662,514

27

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

5. 

LOANS (Continued)

For the year ended December 31, 2008 and the period from July 17, 2007 (date operations commenced) 
to December 31, 2007, the Bank had no impaired loans or loans placed on nonaccrual status.  During 
the  same  periods,  the  Bank  recognized  a  provision  for  loan  losses  of  $1,152,000  and  $248,000, 
respectively, and no losses were charged to the allowance.

Salaries and employee benefits totaling $893,448 and $190,195 were deferred as loan origination 
costs  for  the  year  ended  December  31,  2008  and  the  period  from  July  17,  2007  (date  operations 
commenced) to December 31, 2007, respectively.

Loans with fair values of approximately $55,932,824 were pledged to secure borrowing arrangements 
at December 31, 2008 (see Note 9).

6. 

PREMISES AND EQUIPMENT

Premises and equipment consisted of the following:

Furniture, fixtures and equipment 
Leasehold improvements 

Less accumulated depreciation

and amortization 

December 31, 

2008 

2007 

$ 

559,518  $ 
133,382 

692,900 

322,453
120,130

442,583

(172,329)   

(28,426)

$ 

520,571  $ 

414,157

Depreciation and amortization included in occupancy and equipment expense totaled $143,903 and 
$28,426, respectively, for 2008 and for the period from July 17, 2007 (date operations commenced) 
to December 31, 2007.

7. 

INTEREST-BEARING DEPOSITS

Interest-bearing deposits consisted of the following:

Savings  
Money market 
Interest-bearing demand accounts 
Time, $100,000 or more 
Other time   

December 31, 

2008 

2007 

$ 

4,243,227  $ 

45,609,801 
2,069,275 
40,279,843 
520,762 

55,978
19,315,634
348,350
4,205,787
211,195

$ 

92,722,908  $ 

24,136,944

28

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

7. 

INTEREST-BEARING DEPOSITS (Continued)

Aggregate annual maturities of time deposits are as follows:

Year Ending
December 31, 

2009 
2010 
2011 
2012 

$ 

40,411,693
232,175
-
156,737

$ 

40,800,605

Interest expense recognized on interest-bearing deposits for the year ended December 31, 2008 and 
the period from July 17, 2007 (date operations commenced) to December 31, 2007 consisted of the 
following:

Savings  
Money market 
Interest-bearing demand accounts 
Time, $100,000 or more 
Other time   

8. 

INCOME TAXES

Year Ended December 31, 

2008 

2007 

$ 

28,662  $ 

745,409 
32,877 
659,423 
9,573 

245
175,719
1,643
52,778
1,148

$ 

1,475,944  $ 

231,533

The provision for income taxes for the year ended December 31, 2008 and the period from July 17, 
2007 (date operations commenced) to December 31, 2007 consisted of the following:

Current  
Deferred 
Increase in valuation allowance 

Income tax expense 

Current  
Deferred 
Establishment of valuation allowance 

  $ 

  $ 

  $ 

2008

800
(1,869,295)
1,869,295

-

2007

-
(99,031)
99,031

Income tax expense 

  $ 

-

29

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

8. 

INCOME TAXES (Continued)

Deferred tax assets (liabilities) consisted of the following:

Deferred tax assets:

Net operating losses 
Share-based compensation 

  Organization costs 

Allowance for loan losses 
Impairment on FNMA preferred stock 
State deferred tax asset 

Deferred tax assets before valuation

allowance 

Valuation allowance 

Total deferred tax assets 

Deferred tax liabilities:

Accrual to cash conversion 
Deferred loan origination costs 
Premises and equipment 
Unrealized gain on available-for-sale
   investment securities 

  Other 

December 31, 

2008 

2007 

$ 

1,350,392  $ 
84,635 
414,086 
468,171 
695,598 
554,012 

598,544
28,183
444,664
74,468
-
269,983

3,566,894 

1,415,842

(3,186,106)   

(1,316,811) 

380,788 

99,031

(99,058)   
(237,162)   
(39,079)   

(107,561)   
(5,489)   -

(31,724)
(57,065)
(10,242)

(53,223)

Total deferred tax liabilities 

(488,349)   

(152,254)

Net deferred tax liability 

$ 

(107,561)  $ 

(53,223)

A valuation allowance is provided to reduce deferred tax assets to a level which, more likely than not, 
will be realized.  Included in the valuation allowance against the deferred tax assets is the other-than- 
temporary impairment on FNMA Preferred Stock.  The loss on the preferred shares will be accorded 
ordinary treatment for federal income tax purposes, but will be treated as a capital loss for California 
tax purposes.  For California, capital losses are deductible only to the extent they offset capital gains 
within five years of the date that the loss is realized for tax.  Management believes that a valuation 
allowance is appropriate against the California capital loss exposure in the amount of $140,000.  This 
valuation allowance is included as a component in the full valuation allowance against the Bank’s 
deferred tax assets.  

Due to the losses recognized during the organizational period and since operations commenced, a 
valuation allowance has been recorded for substantially all of the Bank’s net deferred tax assets.  The 
need for this valuation allowance will be periodically reviewed and benefits will be recognized when 
they are determined to be realizable.

At December 31, 2008, the Bank had Federal and State net operating loss carry-forwards (NOLs) of 
$6,016,468 and $5,912,410, respectively.  The Federal and State NOLs begin to expire in 2027 and 
2017, respectively.

The Bank files income tax returns in the U.S federal and California jurisdictions.  There are currently 
no pending U.S. federal or state income tax or non-U.S. income tax examinations by tax authorities.

30

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

8. 

INCOME TAXES (Continued)

The Bank is subject to tax examinations by U.S. Federal and state taxing authorities for all tax returns 
filed since its inception.

As of December 31, 2008 and 2007, there were no unrecognized tax benefits or interest and penalties 
accrued by the Bank.

9. 

BORROWING ARRANGEMENTS

The Bank has $21,000,000 in unsecured borrowing arrangements with five of its correspondent banks 
to meet short-term liquidity needs.  In a separate agreement, the Bank can borrow up to $8,000,000, or 
the total market value of securities pledged to a correspondent bank under a repurchase agreement.  
At December 31, 2008 and 2007, there were no investment securities pledged to the correspondent 
bank under this agreement.  There were no borrowings outstanding under these arrangements  at 
December 31, 2008 or 2007.

The Bank entered into a borrowing arrangement with the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco 
(FRB) during 2008 under which advances are secured by portions of the Bank’s loan and investment 
securities portfolios.  The Bank’s credit limit varies according to the amount and composition of the 
assets  pledged  as  collateral.   At  December  31,  2008,  amounts  pledged  and  available  under  such 
limits were approximately $32,630,000.  

The Bank entered into a borrowing arrangement with the Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) during 
2008  under  which  advances  are  secured  by  portions  of  the  Bank’s  loan  portfolio.    The  Bank’s 
credit limit varies according to its total assets and the amount and composition of the loan portfolio 
pledged  as  collateral.   At  December  31,  2008,  amounts  pledged  and  available  under  such  limits 
were approximately $6,165,000 and $165,000, respectively.  There was $6,000,000 in borrowings 
outstanding under this arrangement at interest rates ranging from 2.05% to 2.65% at December 31, 
2008, with average maturities of approximately four years.

The  Bank  is  eligible  to  apply  for  and  potentially  issue  certain  debt  that  is  backed  by  the  full  faith 
and  credit  of  the  United  States,  up  to  a  limit  of  $2,074,000,  under  the  Federal  Deposit  Insurance 
Corporation’s  Temporary  Liquidity  Guarantee  Program.   Any  senior  unsecured  debt  with  a  stated 
maturity of more than thirty days issued by the Bank up to its debt guarantee limit falls under this 
program.  The Bank will be charged an annualized assessment from the FDIC, ranging from 50 to 100 
basis points, based on the term and amount of the debt outstanding under the program.  At December 
31, 2008, the Bank had no borrowings under this debt guarantee program.

10. 

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

Operating Leases

The Bank leases its headquarters facility in Lafayette, California from an affiliated party under a non-
cancelable operating lease.  The lease expires on May 30, 2015 and has one 7 1/2 year renewal 
option.  The lease includes annual rent adjustments during the initial lease term and increases to the 
then current fair-market rent commencing the first year of the option.  It is management’s intention to 
exercise the renewal option.

31

California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

10. 

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Continued)

Operating Leases (Continued)

Future minimum lease payments are as follows:

Year Ending 
December 31, 

2009 
2010 
2011 
2012 
2013 
Thereafter 

  $          387,360 
            396,090 
            405,765   
            414,990
            424,755
619,920

  $       2,648,880 

Rental expense included in occupancy and equipment expense totaled $409,906 and $97,747 for the 
year ended December 31, 2008 and for the period from July 17, 2007 (date operations commenced) 
to December 31, 2007.

Financial Instruments With Off-Balance-Sheet Risk

The Bank is a party to financial instruments with off-balance-sheet risk in the normal course of business 
in order to meet the financing needs of its customers and to reduce its own exposure to fluctuations 
in interest rates.  

The following financial instruments represent off-balance-sheet credit risk:

Commitments to extend credit 
Standby letters of credit 

December 31,  

2008 

2007 

$ 
$ 

61,609,606  $ 
996,654  $ 

14,233,694
-

The Bank’s exposure to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by the other party for commitments 
to extend credit is represented by the contractual amount of those instruments.  The Bank uses the 
same credit policies in making commitments as it does for loans included on the balance sheet.

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 some of the commitments are expected to expire without being drawn upon, the total commitment 
amounts do not necessarily represent future cash requirements.  The Bank evaluates each customer’s 
creditworthiness on a case-by-case basis. 

The  amount  of  collateral  obtained,  if  deemed  necessary  by  the  Bank  upon  extension  of  credit,  is 
based on management’s credit evaluation of the borrower.  Collateral held varies, but may include 
accounts receivable, inventory, and deeds of trust on residential real estate and income-producing 
commercial properties.

32

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
 
        
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

10. 

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Continued)

Financial Instruments With Off-Balance-Sheet Risk (Continued)

Standby letters of credit are conditional commitments issued to guarantee the performance of a client 
to a third party.  The credit risk involved in issuing standby letters of credit is essentially the same 
as that involved in extending loans to clients.  The fair value of the liability related to these standby 
letters of credit, which represents the fees received for issuing the guarantees, was not significant 
at December 31, 2008 and 2007.  The Bank recognizes these fees as revenue over the term of the 
commitment or when the commitment is used.

Commercial loan commitments represent approximately 77% of total commitments and are generally 
unsecured or secured by collateral other than real estate and have variable interest rates.  Real estate 
loan commitments represent approximately 17% of total commitments and are generally secured by 
property with a loan-to-value ratio not to exceed 75%.  The majority of real estate commitments also 
have variable interest rates.  Home equity and personal lines of credit represent the remaining 6% of 
total commitments and are generally secured by residential real estate and have both variable and 
fixed interest rates.

Significant Concentrations of Credit Risk

The Bank grants real estate mortgage, real estate construction, commercial and installment loans to 
customers in the Bank’s geographic service area.  In management’s judgment, a concentration exists 
in real estate related loans which represented approximately 53% and 42% of the Bank’s loan portfolio 
at December 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively.  Although management believes such concentrations to 
have no more than the normal risk of collectability, a substantial decline in the economy in general, or 
a decline in real estate values in the Bank’s primary market area in particular, could have an adverse 
impact on collectability of these loans.  Personal and business income represents the primary source 
of repayment for a majority of these loans.

Contingencies

The  Bank  may  be  subject  to  legal  proceedings  and  claims  which  arise  in  the  ordinary  course  of 
business.  In the opinion of management, the amount of ultimate liability with respect to such actions 
will not materially affect the financial position or results of operations of the Bank.

Correspondent Banking Agreements

The  Bank  maintains  funds  on  deposit  with  other  federally  insured  financial  institutions  under 
correspondent banking agreements.  Those insured financial institutions have elected to participate 
in  the  FDIC  sponsored  Transaction  Account  Guarantee  Program.    Under  that  program,  through 
December 31, 2009, all noninterest-bearing transaction accounts are fully guaranteed by the FDIC 
for the entire amount in the account and, as a result of the program, there were no uninsured deposits 
at December 31, 2008.  Coverage under the Transaction Account Guarantee Program is in addition 
to and separate from the coverage available under the FDIC’s general deposit insurance rules.  This 
program was not in effect in 2007; however, uninsured deposits were not significant at that time.

33

California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

11. 

SHARE-BASED PAYMENT

Stock Option Awards

The California Bank of Commerce 2007 Equity Incentive Plan (the “Plan”) permits the grant of stock 
options to directors, organizers and employees of the Bank.  Grants of options to the organizers during 
the start up phase of the Bank and to the Directors are considered Non-Qualified Stock Option Awards.  
All other option grants are considered Incentive Stock Option Awards.  All of the options granted under 
the Plan have a 10 year term and have been issued with exercise prices at the fair market value of 
the underlying shares at the date of grant.  The Non-Qualified stock option awards to the organizers 
vested 100% immediately, whereas the Stock Option Awards to directors and employees vest over a 
three year period from the date the options were granted.  The share-based compensation expense 
related to awards granted to organizers is included in pre-opening expenses.  

For the year ended December 31, 2008 and the period from July 17, 2007 (date operations commenced) 
to December 31, 2007, the compensation cost recognized for stock option compensation was $718,788 
and $322,066, respectively.

A summary of option activity under the Plan for the year ended December 31, 2008 and the period 
from July 17, 2007 (date operations commenced) to December 31, 2007 is presented below:

  Weighted 
  Average 
  Exercise 

Price 

  Weighted
  Average 
  Remaining   
  Contractual   
 Term (Years) 

Shares 

            592,250  $ 

10.00 

            21,500  $           10.16             
(4,250)  $            10.00             

            609,500  $ 

10.01 

8.61 

Options 
Granted and outstanding 
   at December 31, 2007 

Granted 
Forfeited 
Outstanding at 
  December 31, 2008 

Vested or expected to vest
   at December 31, 2008         
Exercisable at 
  December 31, 2008 

  594,975  $ 

10.01 

             302,674  $ 

10.00 

8.61 

8.58 

As of December 31, 2008, the unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested stock option 
awards  totaled  $1,122,781.   That  cost  is  expected  to  be  amortized  on  a  straight-line  basis  over  a 
weighted  average  period  of  1.61  years  and  will  be  adjusted  for  subsequent  changes  in  estimated 
forfeitures.

At  December  31,  2008,  there  was  no  intrinsic  value  associated  with  outstanding  stock  option 
awards.

34

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
           
    
       
    
 
    
California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

11. 

SHARE-BASED PAYMENT (Continued)

Stock Option Awards (Continued)

The following information relates to stock option grants granted during the years ended December 
31, 2008 and 2007:

Weighted average grant date fair value per share
   Of options granted 
Significant fair value assumptions:
   Expected term in years 
   Expected annual volatility 
   Expected annual dividend yield 
   Risk-free interest rate 
Total share-based compensation costs included in
   operating expenses 

2008 

2007 

$ 

3.86  $ 

4.09

              6 years  
33.22% 
0% 
3.09% 

6 years
32.58%
0%
4.93%

$ 

718,788  $ 

322,066

12. 

SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Dividends

Upon  declaration  by  the  Board  of  Directors,  all  shareholders  of  record  will  be  entitled  to  receive 
dividends.  The California Financial Code restricts the total dividend payment of any state banking 
association in any calendar year to the lesser of (1) the bank’s retained earnings or (2) the bank’s net 
income for its last three fiscal years, less distributions made to shareholders during the same three-
year period.  At December 31, 2008, no amounts were free of such restrictions.

Regulatory Capital

The Bank is subject to certain regulatory capital requirements administered by the Federal Deposit 
Insurance  Corporation  (FDIC).    Failure  to  meet  these  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 Bank’s financial statements.

Under  capital  adequacy  guidelines,  the  Bank  must  meet  specific  capital  guidelines  that  involve 
quantitative  measures  of  their  assets,  liabilities  and  certain  off-balance-sheet  items  as  calculated 
under regulatory accounting practices.  These quantitative measures are established by regulation 
and require that minimum amounts and ratios of total and Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets and of 
Tier 1 capital to average assets be maintained.  Capital amounts and classification are also subject to 
qualitative judgments by the regulators about components, risk weightings and other factors.

The Bank is also subject to additional capital guidelines under the regulatory framework for prompt 
corrective action.  To be categorized as well capitalized, the Bank must maintain minimum total risk-
based, Tier 1 risk-based and Tier 1 leverage ratios as set forth in the table on the following page.  
The  most  recent  notification  from  the  FDIC  categorized  the  Bank  as  well  capitalized  under  these 
guidelines.  There are no conditions or events since that notification that management believes have 
changed the Bank’s category.

Management believes that the Bank met all capital adequacy requirements as of December 31, 2008 
and 2007.

35

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

12. 

SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY (Continued)

Regulatory Capital (Continued)

During  its  first  three  years,  the  Bank  is  required  to  maintain  a  minimum  leverage  ratio  of  8%.    In 
addition,  to  be  categorized  as  well  capitalized,  the  Bank  must  maintain  minimum  total  risk-based, 
Tier 1 risk-based and Tier 1 leverage ratios as set forth below.

2008 

2007 

  Amount 

 Ratio  

  Amount 

 Ratio 

Leverage Ratio

California Bank of Commerce 
Minimum requirement for “Well-Capitalized” institution
    under prompt corrective action provisions 
Minimum regulatory requirement 
Minimum leverage ratio for de novo institution 

$ 20,179,000  15.2%  $ 24,713,000  53.0%

$   6,643,000  5.0%  $   2,333,000  5.0%
$   5,315,000  4.0%  $   1,867,000  4.0%
$ 10,629,000  8.0%  $   3,733,000  8.0%

Tier 1 Risk-Based Capital Ratio

California Bank of Commerce 
Minimum requirement for “Well-Capitalized” institution
    under prompt corrective action provisions    
Minimum regulatory requirement 

$ 20,179,000  14.4%  $ 24,713,000  76.3%

$   8,412,000  6.0%  $   1,943,000  6.0%
$   5,608,000  4.0%  $   1,295,000  4.0%

Total Risk-Based Capital Ratio

California Bank of Commerce 
Minimum requirement for “Well-Capitalized” institution
    under prompt corrective action provisions 
Minimum regulatory requirement 

$ 21,669,000  15.5%  $ 24,973,000  77.1%

$ 14,020,000  10.0%  $   3,238,000  10.0%
$ 11,216,000  8.0%  $   2,590,000  8.0%

13. 

RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

During the normal course of business, the Bank enters into transactions with related parties, including 
Directors, executive officers and affiliates.  These transactions include borrowings from the Bank with 
substantially the same terms, including rates and collateral, as loans to unrelated parties. 

36

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

13. 

RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS (Continued)

The following is a summary of the aggregate activity involving related party borrowers during the year 
ended December 31, 2008:

Balance, December 31, 2007 

Disbursements 
Amounts participated 
Amounts repaid 

Balance, December 31, 2008 

Undisbursed commitments to related parties,
  December 31, 2008 

$      5,217,410

       5,489,164
       (2,591,511)
(1,744,503)

$      6,370,560

$      2,415,000

At December 31, 2008, the Bank’s deposits from related parties totaled $2,563,000.

The  Bank  also  leases  its  office  from  a  company  owned  by  a  member  of  the  Board  of  Directors.  
Rental payments under this agreement totaled $425,386 for the year ended December 31, 2008 and 
$42,824 for the period from the period from July 17, 2007 (date operations commenced) to December 
31, 2007.

14. 

EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

Profit Sharing Plan

In 2007, the Bank adopted the California Bank of Commerce Profit Sharing 401(k) Plan.  All full-time 
employees 21 years of age or older with 3 months of service are eligible to participate in the plan.  
Eligible employees may elect to make tax deferred contributions up to the maximum amount allowed 
by law.  The Bank may make additional contributions to the plan at the discretion of the Board of 
Directors.  Bank contributions vest at a rate of 20% annually for all employees.  The Bank did not 
make a contribution to the Plan during the year ended December 31, 2008 or for the period from July 
17, 2007 (date operations commenced) to December 31, 2007.

Salary Continuation and Retirement Plan

The Board of Directors approved  a salary continuation plan for the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) 
during 2007.  Under the Plan, once the CEO reaches age 65, the Bank is obligated to provide the 
CEO with annual benefits for twenty years after retirement.  The estimated present value of these 
future  benefits  is  accrued  from  the  effective  date  of  the  plan  until  the  CEO’s  expected  retirement 
date based on a discount rate of 6.5%.  The expense recognized under this plan for the year ended 
December 31, 2008 and the period from July 17, 2007 (date operations commenced) to December 
31, 2007 totaled $38,711 and $46,281, respectively.  Accrued compensation payable under the salary 
continuation plan totaled $84,992 and $32,592 at December 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively, and is 
included in accrued interest payable and other liabilities on the Bank’s balance sheet.

37

 
California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

15. 

COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

Comprehensive  income  (loss)  is  reported  in  addition  to  net  income  for  all  periods  presented.  
Comprehensive  income  (loss)  is  a  more  inclusive  financial  reporting  methodology  that  includes 
disclosure  of  other  comprehensive  income  (loss)  that  historically  has  not  been  recognized  in  the 
calculation of net income.  Unrealized gains and losses on the Bank’s available-for-sale investment 
securities are included in other comprehensive income (loss).  Total comprehensive income and the 
components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) are presented in the statement of 
changes in shareholder’s equity.

The Bank held securities classified as available-for-sale which had unrealized gains as follows:

Before 
Tax 

Tax 
Liability 

After 
Tax 

For the Year Ended December 31, 2008

Net unrealized holding gains 

  $        262,343  $ 

(107,561)  $ 

154,782 

For the Year Ended December 31, 2007

Net unrealized holding gains 

  $        129,813  $ 

(53,223)  $ 

76,590 

16. 

OTHER EXPENSES

Other  expenses  for  the  year  ended  December  31,  2008  and  the  period  from  July  17,  2007  (date 
operations commenced) to December 31, 2007 consisted of the following:

Outsourced data processing and electronic banking 
Computer network and internet support 
Director’s stock-based compensation 
Professional fees 
Advertising, promotion and business development 
Regulatory fees 
Provision for unfunded loan commitments 
Stationery and supplies 
Correspondent Bank service charges 
Other operating expenses 

$ 

2008 

2007 

156,461  $ 
169,101 
166,034 
202,354 
177,890 
76,323 
48,000 
44,689 
45,474 
241,243 

67,490
73,528
82,892
284,644
41,193
6,196
12,000 
24,628
4,453
73,116

$ 

1,327,569  $ 

670,140

38

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

17. 

SUBSEQUENT EVENT

On February 27, 2009, the Bank entered into a Letter Agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”) with 
the United States Department of the Treasury (the “Treasury”), pursuant to which the Bank issued 
and sold 4,000 shares of the Bank’s Fixed Rate Non-cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series 
A (the “Series A Preferred”) for a purchase price of $4,000,000.  Additionally, the Bank created and 
authorized  200.002  shares  of  the  Bank’s  Fixed  Rate  Non-cumulative  Perpetual  Preferred  Stock, 
Series B stock, (the “Series B Preferred”).

The Series A Preferred will qualify as Tier 1 capital and will pay non-cumulative dividends quarterly 
at a rate of 5% per annum for the first five years, and 9% per annum thereafter.  The unissued Series 
B Preferred will pay cumulative dividends at a rate of 9% per annum until redemption.  Subject to the 
approval of the Appropriate Federal Banking Agency, either series may be redeemed, in whole or in 
part, by the Bank after three years; however, the Series B Preferred may not be redeemed until after 
all the Series A Preferred has been redeemed.  Prior to the end of three years, terms of the Series A 
Preferred and the Series B Preferred provide that such securities may be redeemed by the Bank only 
with proceeds from the sale of qualifying equity securities of the Bank (a “Qualified Equity Offering”).  
However,  under  Section  7001  of  the American  Recovery  and  Reinvestment Act  of  2009  effective 
February 17, 2009, as acknowledged in a side letter with the Treasury dated February 27, 2009 and 
subject to consultation with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, the Bank shall be permitted 
to redeem such securities without regard to the source of funds or waiting periods. 

The  Series A  Preferred  and  Series  B  Preferred  shall  be  non-voting,  other  than  class  voting  rights 
on (i) any authorization or issuance of shares ranking senior to the Series A Preferred and Series B 
Preferred, (ii) any amendment to the rights of the Series A Preferred and Series B Preferred, or (iii) 
any merger, exchange or similar transaction which would adversely affect the rights of the Series A 
Preferred and Series B Preferred.

If  dividends  on  the  Series A  Preferred  and  Series  B  Preferred  are  not  paid  in  full  for  six  dividend 
periods, whether or not consecutive, the holders of the Series A Preferred and Series B Preferred will 
have the right to elect 2 directors.  The right to elect directors will end when full dividends have been 
paid for four consecutive dividend periods.

In the Purchase Agreement, the Bank agreed that, until such time as the Treasury ceases to own 
any debt or equity securities of the Bank acquired pursuant to the Purchase Agreement, the Bank will 
take all necessary action to ensure that its benefit plans with respect to its senior executive officers 
comply with Section 111(b) of the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 (the “EESA”) as 
implemented by any guidance or regulation under the EESA that has been issued and is in effect as 
of the date of issuance of the Series A Preferred and the Series B Preferred, and has agreed to not 
adopt any benefit plans with respect to, or which cover, its senior executive officers that do not comply 
with the EESA, and the applicable executives have consented to the foregoing.  Furthermore, the 
Purchase Agreement allows the Treasury to unilaterally amend the terms of the agreement.

39

California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

17. 

SUBSEQUENT EVENT (Continued)

So long as any share of Series A Preferred or Series B Preferred is outstanding, no dividend or 
distribution may be declared or paid on the Bank’s Common Stock, other than dividends payable 
solely in shares of Common Stock.

Furthermore, for as long as any Series A Preferred or Series B Preferred is outstanding, no 
dividends may be declared or paid on junior preferred shares, preferred shares ranking pari passu 
with the Series A Preferred or Series B Preferred (other than in the case of pari passu preferred 
shares, dividends on a pro rata basis with the Series A Preferred or Series B Preferred), nor may 
the Bank repurchase or redeem any common shares, junior preferred shares, preferred shares 
ranking pari passu with the Series A Preferred or Series B Preferred, unless all accrued and unpaid 
dividends for all past dividend periods on the Series A Preferred and Series B Preferred are fully 
paid.

40

California Bank of Commerce
3595 Mt. Diablo Boulevard
Lafayette, CA 94549

www.californiabankofcommerce.com

Member FDIC