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California BanCorp

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FY2009 Annual Report · California BanCorp
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...defined by the company we keep.

2009 Annual Report

California Bank of Commerce

In memory of Brad Kisner

Founder, Director, and Friend

California Bank of Commerce

Fellow Shareholders:

Your Bank performed exceptionally well throughout 2009, our second full year in business.  We added many new 
relationships with privately held businesses and expanded our loan and deposit portfolios.  We grew revenues 
and managed overhead, thus driving big improvements to the bottom line. 

Full Year 2009 Highlights versus 2008:

Total Loans of $142 million, up 47%
Total Deposits of $153 million, up 38%
Interest Income of $6.7 million, up 51%
Interest Expense of $1.3 million, down 9%
Net Interest Margin of 3.52%, up 40 basis points

Aided both by increased loan volumes and by margin improvements, 2009 net revenues (net interest income, 
before the provision for loan losses) improved to $5.4 million, up by 80% over 2008.  Overhead (non-interest 
expense  exclusive  of  2008  impairment  charges)  grew  only  9%.    These  accomplishments  resulted  in  positive 
operating income of $450,000 in 2009 versus an operating loss of ($1,336,000) in 2008*. 

We finished 2009 with zero non-performing loans and a healthy $2.56 million reserve for loan losses (1.8% of 
total loans).  At December 31, 2009, the Bank remained well capitalized, with a Tier 1 Leverage Capital Ratio of 
12.8%, well in excess of the FDIC’s 8% standard for a “well capitalized” bank.  In addition, the Bank continued 
to maintain strong liquidity, with over $30 million in cash and cash equivalents at December 31, 2009. 

In short, in 2009 we made excellent headway in building a bank that will live up to the high expectations of its 
shareholders.

Looking Ahead

We  expect  the  Fed  to  keep  rates  low,  so  we  believe  margins  will  continue  to  be  a  challenge.    We  expect 
Washington and Sacramento will be more a hindrance than a help. We expect unemployment to stay high and 
for real estate to remain depressed. 

These conditions are not much changed from those of the past two years.  So, we remain committed to our 
plan, which calls for steady but moderate growth, achieved by focusing on our core business.  Our strength is 
our relationships with well managed closely held businesses.  Over time, there will be fewer independent banks 
that have the expertise to serve such clients.  We see opportunity.  We have the right people in the right place 
at the right time to thrive.

John Rossell
President and Chief Executive Officer

Edward B. Collins
Chairman of the Board

* Operating Income is Net Income adjusted for the Provision for Loan Losses, stock option expense, and the extraordinary item in 2008.

1

California Bank of Commerce

2009 Financial Highlights

We continued to attract and retain deposits...

...funding steady loan growth...

$250,000 

$200,000 

$150,000 

$100,000 

$50,000 

$-

n
i
g
r
a
M

t
s
e
r
e
t
n

I

t
e
N

4.00%

3.50%

3.00%

2.50%

2.00%

12.00%

10.00%

8.00%

6.00%

4.00%

2.00%

0.00%

$160,000

$140,000

$120,000

$100,000

$80,000

$60,000

$40,000

$20,000

4Q
2007

1Q

2Q

3Q

4Q

1Q

2Q

3Q

4Q

2008

2009

Total Deposits (in thousands)

$-

4Q
2007

1Q

2Q

3Q

4Q

1Q

2Q

3Q

4Q

2008

2009

Total Loans (in thousands)

...allowing us to improve margins, despite low Fed rates...

...so net interest income grew.

7.53%

A

v

g. 

P

ri

m

e

R

a

t

e

7.00%

5.00%

e
t
a
R
e
m

i
r
P

.
g
v
A

3.25%

3.00%

$1,800 

$1,600 

$1,400 

$1,200 

$1,000 

$800 

$600 

$400 

$200 

$-

4Q
2007

1Q

2Q

3Q

4Q

1Q

2Q

3Q

4Q

2008

2009

Avg. Prime Rate & Net Interest Margin (percent)

4Q
2007

1Q

2Q

3Q

4Q

1Q

2Q

3Q

4Q

2008

2009

Net Interest Income (in thousands)

We managed overhead costs...

...and thus turned the corner to operating profits.

$200

$150

$100

$50

$0

-$50

-$100

-$150

Jan

Feb Mar Apr May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep Oct Nov Dec

2009

4Q
2007

1Q

2Q

3Q

4Q

1Q

2Q

3Q

4Q

2008

2009

Overhead (less impairment charge) % of Average Assets

Operating Income (in thousands)

2

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
California Bank of Commerce

GOLDEN STATE BRIDGE
Engineers & Contractors

...defined by the

Bay Cities 
Paving & 
Grading

ALL WEATHER INSULATED PANELS

B C McCosker Construction Company, Inc.
General Engineering Contractor

Shaw  Pipeline      Inc.

®

Tahoe Asphalt

3

California Bank of Commerce

company we keep.

SHIMMICK






           





albay

Construction Co.

Bayside Insulation, Inc.

eLLWOOD COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE 

California Trenchless, Inc.

4

California Bank of Commerce

Organizers  

Our  Organizers  share  a  vision  of  California  Bank  of  Commerce.    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.

Danville, CA
Danville, CA
Danville, CA
Moraga, CA
San Francisco, CA
Alamo, CA
Newport Beach, CA
Orinda, CA
Orinda, CA
San Francisco, CA
Orinda, CA

Andy and Denise Armanino 
Charles and Judith Bellig 
John and Susan Bellig 
Mike and Patrice Botto  
Peter and Mona Branagh 
Joe and Jodie Brescia 
Ray and Terry Brown 
Jeff and Patty Calder 
Sandy and Jean Colen 
Ted and Margaret Collins 
Jerry Condon 
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

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

  Orinda, CA
  Lafayette, CA
  Lafayette, CA
  Hillsborough, CA
  Lafayette, CA
  Lafayette, CA
  Belmont, CA
  Orinda, CA
  Orinda, CA
  Lafayette, CA
  San Francisco, CA
  Mill Valley, CA
  Orinda, CA
  Walnut Creek, CA
  Walnut Creek, CA
  San Francisco, CA
  Orinda, CA
  Orinda, CA
  Orinda, CA
  Orinda, CA
  Walnut Creek, CA
  Moraga, CA
  Oakland, CA
  Alamo, CA
  Lafayette, CA

5

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
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
and EVP Investor Relations

Thomas M. Park
Executive Vice President

Steven E. Shelton
Executive Vice President

Stephen P. Tessler
Executive Vice President

California Bank of Commerce

Board of Directors 

Edward B. Collins
Chairman of the Board, 
California Bank of Commerce
Chairman and Director, Branded Spirits, Ltd.

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

Rochelle G. Klein
Advisory Director, Ocean Gate Capital Management

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

Thomas R. Morehouse
Retired President and Founder, Filesafe Inc.

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

Edmond E. Traille
CEO, GALLINA LLP

6

 
 
 
California Bank of Commerce

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT

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

We  have  audited  the  accompanying  balance  sheet  of  California  Bank  of  Commerce  (the  “Bank”)  as  of 
December 31, 2009 and 2008, and the related statements of operations, changes in shareholders’ equity 
and  cash  flows  for  the  years  then  ended. 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  audit  to  obtain  reasonable  assurance 
about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on 
a  test  basis,  evidence  supporting  the  amounts  and  disclosures  in  the  financial  statements. An  audit  also 
includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well 
as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable 
basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial 
position of California Bank of Commerce as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, and the results of its operations 
and its cash flows for the years then ended, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in 
the United  States of America.

March 22, 2010

7

California Bank of Commerce

BALANCE SHEET
December 31, 2009 and 2008

ASSETS

Cash and due from banks 
Federal funds sold  

2009 

2008 

$ 

30,568,105  $ 

 -  

2,668,421
4,825,000

  Total cash and cash equivalents 

30,568,105 

7,493,421

Investment securities (Note 3)
  Available-for-sale, at estimated fair value 
Loans held for sale (Note 1) 
Loans, less allowance for loan losses of $2,565,000 in
  2009 and $1,400,000 in 2008 (Notes 4, 7, 8 and 9) 
Premises and equipment, net (Note 5) 
Accrued interest receivable and other assets 

17,315,449 
909,000 

31,869,637 
490,000

140,689,024 
385,703 
3,896,817 

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

  Total assets 

$  193,764,098  $  137,417,105

LIABILITIES AND
 SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Deposits:
  Non-interest bearing  

Interest bearing (Note 6) 

  Total deposits 

Long-term borrowings (Note 8) 
Short-term borrowings (Note 8) 
Accrued interest payable and other liabilities (Note 13) 

  Total liabilities 

$ 

35,417,907  $ 
117,256,129 

17,787,276
92,722,908

152,674,036 

110,510,184

12,000,000 
5,000,000 
759,929 

6,000,000
 - 
573,584

170,433,965 

117,083,768

Commitments and contingencies (Notes 8 and 9) 

- 

Shareholders’ equity (Notes 10 and 11):
  Preferred stock – no par value; 10,000,000 shares authorized

  Series A, noncumulative, $1,000 per share liquidation

   value, 4,000 shares issued and outstanding at
   December 31, 2009 (Note 16) 

  Series B, noncumulative, $1,000 per share liquidation

   value, 200 shares issued and outstanding at
  December 31, 2009 (Note 16) 

  Common stock - no par value; 40,000,000 shares
  authorized; 2,750,000 issued and outstanding 

in 2009 and 2008 
  Accumulated deficit 
  Accumulated other comprehensive income, 

  net of taxes (Notes 3 and 14) 

-

 - 

 - 

3,787,039 

192,065 

29,269,174 
(10,142,295) 

28,540,035
(8,361,480)

224,150 

154,782

  Total shareholders’ equity 

23,330,133 

20,333,337

  Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity 

$  193,764,098  $  137,417,105

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

8

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
California Bank of Commerce

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
For the Year Ended December 31, 2009 and 2008

Interest income:

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

  Total interest income 

Interest expense:

Interest on deposits (Note 6) 

   Interest on long-term borrowings (Note 8) 
Interest on short-term borrowings (Note 8) 

  Total interest expense 

  Net interest income before provision for loan

losses 

Provision for loan losses (Note 4) 

  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 3) 
  Other  

Total non-interest income 

Non-interest expenses:
  Salaries and employee benefits (Notes 4 and 13) 
  Occupancy and equipment (Note 5) 

Impairment charge on available-for-sale
  securities (Note 3) 

  Other (Note 15) 

  Total non-interest expense 

2009 

2008 

$ 

5,927,097  $ 
751,771 
1,208 
59,385 

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

6,739,461 

4,473,364

1,195,283 
151,514 
307 

1,475,944
4,317
678

1,347,104 

1,480,939

5,392,357 

2,992,425

1,256,357 

1,152,000

4,136,000 

1,840,425

124,958 

 -    
-    

106,971 
117,855 

349,784 

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

467,923

3,764,291 
649,679 

3,541,863
645,849

 -    

1,607,762 

2,045,875
1,327,569

6,021,732 

7,561,156

  Loss before provision for income taxes 

(1,535,948)   

(5,252,808)

Provision for income taxes (Note 7) 

  Net Loss  

Preferred stock dividend 

800 

  800

(1,536,748)   

(5,253,608)

(210,733)   -

  Loss to common shareholders 

$ 

(1,747,481)  $ 

(5,253,608)

Basic loss per common share  

$                 (0.64)  $                (1.91)

Weighted average number of shares outstanding 

2,750,000 

2,750,000

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

9

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
California Bank of Commerce

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDER’S EQUITY AND COMPREHENSIVE LOSS
For the Year Ended December 31, 2009 and 2008

  Preferred Stock – Series A   

  Preferred Stock – Series B     

Common Stock 

  Shares 

    Amount 

  Shares   

  Amount 

    Shares 

Amount 

    Accum- 
ulated 
    Other 
    Compre-- 
    hensive 
Income 

  Accum- 
ulated 
	 Deficit	

Total 
  Share- 
  holders’ 
  Equity 

    Compre-
hensive
Loss 

Balance, January 1, 2008 

Share-based compensation
  expense  (Note 10) 
Comprehensive loss (Note 14):
  Net Loss   
Other Comprehensive income: 
  Net change in unrealized

  gains on available for-sale
investment securities, 

  net of taxes 

Total comprehensive loss 

Balance, December 31, 2008 

Issuance of Series A Preferred
  stock, net of discount 

Issuance of Series B Preferred
  stock 

Amortization of discount on 
  Series A and discount accretion 
  on  Series B preferred stock 

Share-based compensation
  expense   (Note 10) 

Preferred dividends 

Comprehensive loss (Note 14):
  Net loss 
Other Comprehensive income: 
  Net change in unrealized
  gains on available-for-
  sale investment
  securities, net of taxes 

2,750,000  $  27,821,247 

$ 

(3,107,872)  $ 

76,590 

$  24,789,965

718,788 

718,788   

(5,253,608)   

(5,253,608)  $ 

(5,253,608)

2,750,000  $  28,540,035 

$ 

(8,361,480)  $ 

154,782 

$  20,333,337   

78,192 

78,192   

78,192

  $ 

(5,175,416)

4,000  $ 

3,755,293 

200 

$ 

190,477   

3,755,293

190,477   

31,746 

1,588   

(33,334)   

729,139 

(210,733)   

729,139

(210,733)   

(1,536,748)   

(1,536,748)  $ 

(1,536,748) 

69,368 

69,368   

69,368

  $ 

(6,642,796)

Balance, December 31, 2009 

4,000  $ 

3,787,039 

200 

$ 

192,065   

2,750,000  $  29,269,174 

$  (10,142,295)  $ 

224,150 

$  23,330,133

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

10

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
California Bank of Commerce

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
For the Year Ended December 31, 2009 and 2008

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 

Increase in cash surrender value of life insurance 

  Change in amortization of discount on retained 

   portion of sold loans 

  Gain on sale of investment securities, net 

Increase in loans held for sale 
Increase in accrued interest receivable
  and other assets 

  Gain on sale of equipment 

Increase in accrued interest payable 
  and other liabilities 

2009 

2008 

$ 

(1,536,748)  $ 

(5,253,608)

1,256,357 

159,882 
38,221 

56,024 
729,139 
(18,052)   

31,446 
(106,971)   
(419,000)   

(920,255)   

- 

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

(11,158)
718,788
 -

 -
(130,778)
(490,000)

(346,558)
110

83,640 

275,555

  Net cash used in operating activities 

(646,317)   

(2,143,553)

Cash flows from investing activities:
  Purchase of available-for-sale investment securities 
  Proceeds from sales and maturities of 

  available-for-sale 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 
  Purchase of bank-owned life insurance policies 
  Purchase of Bank equity securities 

(10,138,180)   

(48,545,519)

18,542,967 

29,301,080

6,317,921 

1,597,353

- 

(46,284,782)   
(25,014)   
(1,300,000)   
(345,300)   

1,002,036
(78,972,070)
(250,427)
- 
(472,000)

  Net cash used in investing activities 

(33,232,388)   

(96,339,547)

     (Continued)

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

11

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
California Bank of Commerce

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS (continued)
For the Year Ended December 31, 2009 and 2008

Cash flows from financing activities:

Increase in demand, interest bearing and
  savings deposits 

  Net (decrease) increase in time deposits 
  Net proceeds from sale of preferred stock 
  Payment of dividends on preferred stock 
  Proceeds from short-term borrowings 
  Proceeds from long-term borrowings 

2009 

2008 

$ 

49,942,942  $ 
(7,779,090)   
3,945,770 

(156,233)   

5,000,000 
6,000,000 

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

  Net cash provided by financing activities 

56,953,389 

88,181,361

  Decrease in cash and cash equivalents 

23,074,684 

(10,301,739)

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period 

7,493,421 

17,795,160

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period 

$ 

30,568,105  $ 

7,493,421

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 

$ 
$ 

1,380,145  $ 
800  $ 

1,416,930
800

$ 

117,573  $ 

132,530

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

12

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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, Alameda, and surrounding counties.

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  June  30,  2010,  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.

Reclassifications

Certain reclassifications have been made to prior year balances to conform to classifications used in 2009.

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 period.

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.

13

California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1. 

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)

Investment Securities (Continued)

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. 

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, and management does not intend to sell the 
security or it is more likely than not that sale of the security will not be required before recovery, only the portion 
of the impairment loss representing credit exposure is recognized as a charge to earnings, with the balance 
recognized as a charge to other comprehensive income.  If management intends to sell the security or it is 
more likely than not that they will be required to sell the security before recovering its forecasted cost, the entire 
impairment loss is recognized as a charge to earnings.

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,  2009  and  2008,  FHLB  stock  totaled  $627,300  and  $282,000, 
respectively, 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.  At December 31, 2009 and 2008, IBFC stock totaled $50,419 and 
$50,419, respectively, and is included on the balance sheet in accrued interest receivable and other assets.

14

California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

1. 

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)

Investment in Other Bank Stocks (Continued)

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.  At December 31, 2009 and 2008, PCBB stock totaled $190,000 and 
$190,000, respectively, and is included on the balance sheet in accrued interest receivable and other assets.

Loans

Loans are stated at principal balances outstanding, except for loans transferred from loans held for sale which 
are carried at the lower of principal balance or market value at the date of transfer, adjusted for accretion of 
discounts.  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.  Interest income on impaired loans, if appropriate, is recognized on a cash 
basis.  Generally, loans are restored to accrual status when the obligation is brought current and has performed 
in accordance with the contractual terms for a reasonable period of time and the ultimate collectability of the 
total contractual principal and interest is no longer in doubt.

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.

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 
$7,126,000 and $8,165,435, respectively, as of December 31, 2009 and 2008.  The participated balances of 
these loans were sold without recourse and are not included on the Bank’s balance sheet.

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, 2009 
reflects management’s estimate of probable losses in the portfolio.

15

California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1. 

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)

Allowance for Loan Losses (Continued)

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 $35,000 and $60,000, at December 31, 2009 and 2008, 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.

The Bank’s Directors’ Loan Committee reviewed the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses at December 
31, 2009 and 2008.

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. 

Transfer of Financial Assets

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

Sales and Servicing of Government Guaranteed Loans

During 2009 and 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).  None of these loans 
were sold in 2009.  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 was not significant at December 31, 2009 and 2008.

16

California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

1. 

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)

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.

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, 2009 and 2008, 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. 

17

 
California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1. 

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)

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. 

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 years ended December 31, 2009 and 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 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.

18

California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

1. 

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)

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.

Adoption of New Financial Accounting Standards

FASB Accounting Standards Codification™ (ASC or Codification)

In June 2009, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued new accounting standards ASC 105-
10 (previously SFAS No. 168), The FASB Accounting Standards CodificationTM and the Hierarchy of Generally 
Accepted Accounting Principles.  With the issuance of ASC 105-10, the FASB Accounting Standards Codification 
(“the Codification” or “ASC”) becomes the single source of authoritative U.S. accounting and reporting standards 
applicable for all nongovernmental entities.  This change is effective for financial statements issued for interim 
or annual periods ended after September 15, 2009.  Accordingly, all specific references to generally accepted 
accounting principles (GAAP) refer to the Codification.

Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements

In December 2007, the FASB issued ASC 810-10-65-1, (previously SFAS No. 160), Noncontrolling Interests 
in Consolidated Financial Statements.  This standard requires that a noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary be 
reported  separately  within  equity  and  the  amount  of  consolidated  net  income  specifically  attributable  to  the 
noncontrolling interest be identified in the consolidated financial statements.  It also calls for consistency in the 
manner of reporting changes in the parent’s ownership interest and requires fair value measurement of any 
noncontrolling  equity investment retained in a deconsolidation.  This standard  was effective for fiscal years, 
and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning on or after December 15, 2008.  The Bank adopted the 
provisions of this standard on January 1, 2009 without a material impact on our financial condition or results of 
operations.

FASB Clarifies Other-Than-Temporary Impairment

In  April  2009,  the  FASB  issued  ASC  No.  320-10-35  (previously  FSP  115-2  and  124-2  and  EITF  99-20-2), 
Recognition  and  Presentation  of  Other-Than-Temporary-Impairment.    This  standard  (i)  changes  previously 
existing  guidance  for  determining  whether  an  impairment  to  debt  securities  is  other  than  temporary  and  (ii) 
replaces  the  previously  existing  requirement  that  the  entity’s  management  assert  it  has  both  the  intent  and 
ability to hold an impaired security until recovery with a requirement that management assert: (a) it does not 
have the intent to sell the security; and (b) it is more likely than not it will not have to sell the security before 
recovery of its cost basis.  Under this standard, declines in fair value below cost that are deemed to be other 
than  temporary  are  reflected  in  earnings  as  realized  losses  to  the  extent  the  impairment  is  related  to  credit 
losses for both held-to-maturity and available-for-sale securities.  The amount of impairment related to other 
factors is recognized in other comprehensive income.  These changes were effective for interim and annual 
periods ended after June 15, 2009.  The Bank adopted the provisions of this standard on April 1, 2009 and they 
did not have a material impact on our financial condition or results of operations. 

19

California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1. 

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)

Adoption of New Financial Accounting Standards (Continued)

FASB Clarifies Application of Fair Value Accounting

In April 2009, the FASB issued ASC 820-10 (previously FSP FAS 157-4), Determining Fair Value When the 
Volume and Level of Activity for the Asset or Liability Have Significantly Decreased and Identifying Transactions 
That Are Not Orderly.  This standard affirms the objective of fair value when a market is not active, clarifies and 
includes  additional  factors  for  determining  whether  there  has  been  a  significant  decrease  in  market  activity, 
eliminates the presumption that all transactions are distressed unless proven otherwise, and requires an entity 
to disclose a change in valuation technique.  This standard was effective for interim and annual periods ended 
after June 15, 2009.  The Bank  adopted the provisions of this standard on April 1, 2009 and they did not have 
a material impact on our financial condition or results of operations.

Measuring Liabilities at Fair Value

In August 2009, the FASB issued ASU No. 2009-05, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures (ASC Topic 
820) — Measuring Liabilities at Fair Value.  This update provides amendments for the fair value measurement 
of liabilities. It provides clarification that in circumstances in which a quoted price in an active market for the 
identical liability is not available, a reporting entity is required to measure fair value using one or more techniques.  
It also clarifies that when estimating the fair value of a liability, a reporting entity is not required to include a 
separate input or adjustment to other inputs relating to the existence of a restriction that prevents the transfer 
of the liability.  This update was effective for the first reporting period (including interim periods) beginning after 
August 2009.  The Bank adopted the provisions of this update on October 1, 2009 and they did not have a 
material impact on our financial condition or results of operations.

Business Combinations

In December 2007, the FASB issued ASC Topic 805 (previously SFAS 141(R)), Business Combinations.  This 
standard broadens the guidance for business combinations and extends its applicability to all transactions and 
other events in which one entity obtains control over one or more other businesses.  It broadens the fair value 
measurement and recognition of assets acquired, liabilities assumed, and interests transferred as a result of 
business combinations.  The acquirer is no longer permitted to recognize a separate valuation allowance as of 
the acquisition date for loans and other assets acquired in a business combination.  It also requires acquisition-
related costs and restructuring costs that the acquirer expected but was not obligated to incur to be expensed 
separately from the business combination.  It also expands on required disclosures to improve the ability of the 
users of the financial statements to evaluate the nature and financial effects of business combinations.  This 
standard was effective January 1, 2009, at which time it was adopted by the Bank.

Subsequent Events

In May 2009, the FASB issued ASC 855-10 (previously SFAS No. 165), Subsequent Events, which establishes 
general standards of accounting for and disclosure of events that occur after the balance sheet date but before 
financial statements are issued or are available to be issued.  The adoption of this standard on July 1, 2009 
required the Bank to disclose the date through which events were evaluated and had no effect on our financial 
position or results of operations.

20

California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

1. 

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)

Impact of New Accounting Standards

Accounting for Transfers of Financial Assets

In June 2009, the FASB issued ASC Topic 860 (previously SFAS No. 166), Accounting for Transfers of Financial 
Assets, an amendment of SFAS No. 140.  This standard amends the derecognition accounting and disclosure 
guidance included in previously issued standards.  This standard eliminates the exemption from consolidation 
for qualifying special-purpose entities (SPEs) and also requires a transferor to evaluate all existing qualifying 
SPEs to determine whether they must be consolidated in accordance with ASC Topic 810.  This standard also 
provides more stringent requirements for derecognition of a portion of a financial asset and establishes new 
conditions for reporting the transfer of a portion of a financial asset as a sale.  This standard is effective January 
1, 2010.  Management  is assessing  the  impact of this standard  on the  Bank’s financial  condition,  results of 
operations and disclosures.

Transfers and Servicing

In December 2009, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2009-16, Transfers and Servicing 
(ASC Topic 860): Accounting for Transfers of Financial Assets, which updates the derecognition guidance in 
ASC Topic 860 for previously issued SFAS No. 166.  This update reflects the Board’s response to issues entities 
have encountered when applying ASC 860, including: (1) requires that all arrangements made in connection 
with a transfer of financial assets be considered in the derecognition analysis, (2) clarifies when a transferred 
asset is considered legally isolated from the transferor, (3) modifies the requirements related to a transferee’s 
ability to freely pledge or exchange transferred financial assets, and (4) provides guidance on when a portion 
of a financial asset can be derecognized.  This update is effective for financial asset transfers occurring after 
January  1,  2010.    Management  is  assessing  the  impact  of  this  standard  on  the  Bank’s  financial  condition, 
results of operations and disclosures.

Improvements to Financial Reporting of Interests in Variable Interest Entities

In June 2009, the FASB issued ASC Topic 810 (previously SFAS No. 167), Improvements to Financial Reporting 
by  Enterprises  Involved  with  Variable  Interest  Entities.    This  standard  amends  the  consolidation  guidance 
applicable to variable interest entities.  The amendments to the consolidation guidance affect all entities currently 
within the scope of ASC Topic 810, as well as qualifying special-purpose entities that are currently excluded 
from the scope of ASC Topic 810.  This standard is effective as of January 1, 2010.  The Bank does not expect 
the adoption of this standard will have a material impact on its financial position or results of operations.

21

California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

2.   

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 

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 
  Bank-owned life insurance 

Financial liabilities:
  Deposits 
  Borrowings 
  Accrued interest payable 

December 31, 2009 
Fair 
Value 

  Carrying 
Amount 

December 31, 2008 
Fair
Value 

  Carrying 
Amount 

$ 

30,568,105  $ 
16,935,533 
909,000 
140,689,024 

30,568,105  $ 
17,315,449 
912,237 
153,465,713 

7,493,421  $ 

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

7,493,421
31,869,637
493,184
101,820,834

627,300 

627,300 

282,000 

282,000

50,419 

50,419 

50,419 

50,419

190,000 
596,946 
1,318,052 

190,000 
596,946 
1,318,052 

190,000 
454,959 
- 

190,000
454,959
-

152,674,036 
17,000,000 
30,968 

152,518,482 
17,031,472 
30,968 

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

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

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, accrued interest receivable and payable, FHLB, IBFC and PCBB stock, demand 
deposits, short-term borrowings and fixed-rate 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 loans and leases, including 
loans  held-for-sale,  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. The 
fair value of the Bank’s investment in BOLI is its cash surrender value.  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.

22

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

2. 

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (Continued)

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.

Assets Recorded at Fair Value

The  following  tables  present  information  about  the  Bank’s  assets  and  liabilities  measured  at  fair  value  on  a 
recurring basis as of December 31, 2009 and 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 

  $ 

17,315,449  $ 

  $ 

17,315,449  $ 

  2009 

Description 

  Fair Value 

Level 1 

Level 2 

Level 3 

Available-for-sale investment
  securities 

  $ 

31,869,637  $ 

  $ 

31,869,637  $ 

  2008 

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 2009 or 2008.

The Bank did not have any assets or liabilities measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis at December 
31, 2009 or 2008.

23

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

3. 

INVESTMENT SECURITIES

Available-for-Sale

The amortized cost and estimated fair value of available-for-sale investment securities at December 31, 2009 
and 2008 consisted of the following:

2009 

Gross 

Gross 

  Estimated

  Amortized 

  Unrealized 

  Unrealized 

Cost 

Gains 

Losses 

Fair
Value 

  Debt securities:

  U.S. Agency guaranteed
  mortgage-backed securities 

$ 

16,935,533  $ 

379,916  $ 

-  $ 

17,315,449

Net unrealized gains on available-for-sale investment securities totaling $379,916 were recorded, net of $155,766 
in  tax  liabilities,  as  accumulated  other  comprehensive  income  within  shareholders’  equity  at  December  31, 
2009.  Proceeds and gross realized gains from the sale of available-for-sale investment securities for the year 
ended December 31, 2009 totaled $18,380,098 and $106,971 respectively.

2008 

Gross 

Gross 

  Estimated

  Amortized 

  Unrealized 

  Unrealized 

Cost 

Gains 

Losses 

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

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.  These securities were sold during 2009 for a gain of $101,099.

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, 2009, investment securities consisted of U.S. Agency guaranteed mortgage-backed securities 
with no single maturity dates.  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.

At December 31, 2009, all investment securities were pledged to secure State Treasury funds on deposit and 
borrowing arrangements in place at the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco. (See Note 8)

24

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

4. 

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, 

2009 

2008 

$ 

58,230,033  $ 
55,348,877 
15,241,727 
12,973,285 
1,143,841 

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

142,937,763 

96,775,784

316,261 
(2,565,000)   

354,482
(1,400,000)

$  140,689,024  $ 

95,730,266

As of and for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, the Bank had no impaired loans or loans placed 
on nonaccrual status.  

Changes in the allowance for loan and lease losses were as follows:

Balance at beginning of year 
Provision for loan losses 
Loans charged-off 
Recoveries of loans previously charged-off 

  Years Ended December 31, 

2009 

2008 

$ 

 -

$ 

1,400,000  $ 
1,256,357 

(91,357)   
 -

248,000
1,152,000
-

2,565,000  $ 

1,400,000

Salaries and employee benefits totaling $752,391 and $893,448 were deferred as loan origination costs for the 
years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

Loans  with  book  values  of  approximately  $98,753,000  were  pledged  to  secure  borrowing  arrangements  at 
December 31, 2009 (see Note 8).

25

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

5. 

PREMISES AND EQUIPMENT

Premises and equipment consisted of the following:

December 31, 

2009 

2008 

Furniture, fixtures and equipment 
Leasehold improvements 

$ 

584,532  $ 
133,382 

559,518
133,382

Less accumulated depreciation

and amortization 

717,914 

692,900

(332,211)   

(172,329)

$ 

385,703  $ 

520,571

Depreciation and amortization included in occupancy and equipment expense totaled $159,882 and $143,903, 
respectively, for 2009 and 2008.

6. 

INTEREST-BEARING DEPOSITS

Interest-bearing deposits consisted of the following:

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

Aggregate annual maturities of time deposits are as follows:

December 31, 

2009 

2008 

$ 

7,061,028  $ 

72,325,767 
4,847,819 
32,326,515 
695,000 

4,243,227
45,609,801
2,069,275
40,279,843
520,762

$  117,256,129  $ 

92,722,908

 Year Ending
 December 31,

2010 
2011 

$ 

32,776,510
245,005

$ 

33,021,515

26

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

6. 

INTEREST-BEARING DEPOSITS (Continued)

Interest expense recognized on interest-bearing deposits for the years ended   December 31, 2009 and 2008 
consisted of the following:

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

Year Ended December 31, 

2009 

2008 

$ 

63,358  $ 

781,151 
26,207 
315,963 
8,604 

28,662
745,409
32,877
659,423
9,573

$ 

1,195,283  $ 

1,475,944

At  December  31,  2009,  approximately  $34,549,000,  or  22.6%  of  total  deposits  were  from  three  customers 
whose individual deposit relationships each exceeded 5% of total deposits.  The loss of these relationships 
could have a material impact on the Bank’s operations and liquidity.  Management attempts to mitigate this risk 
by working directly with these depositors and by maintaining sufficient liquidity to manage fluctuations in current 
balances within these larger relationships.

7. 

INCOME TAXES

The provision for income taxes for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008 consisted of the following:

Current  
Deferred 
Increase in valuation allowance 

2009 

2008 

  $ 

800  $ 

(395,591)    
395,591    

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

Income tax expense 

  $ 

800   $ 

800

27

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

7. 

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, 

2009 

2008 

$ 

1,967,682  $ 
142,307 
383,507 
835,135 
- 
622,567 

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

3,951,198 

3,566,894

(3,581,697)   

(3,186,106)

369,501 

380,788

(102,666)   
(265,668)   
(181)   

(155,766)   
(986)   

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

(107,561)
(5,489)

Total deferred tax liabilities 

Net deferred tax liability 

(525,267)   

(488,349)

$ 

(155,766)  $ 

(107,561)

The determination of the amount of deferred income tax assets which are more likely than not to be realized is 
primarily dependent on projections of future earnings, which are subject to uncertainty and estimates that may 
change given economic conditions and other factors.  The realization of deferred income tax assets is assessed 
and a valuation allowance is recorded if it is “more likely than not” that all or a portion of the deferred tax asset 
will not be realized.  “More likely than not” is defined as greater than a 50% chance.  All available evidence, both 
positive and negative is considered to determine whether, based on the weight of that evidence, a valuation 
allowance is needed.  

Included in the valuation allowance against the deferred tax assets is the loss on sale of FNMA Preferred Stock.  
The loss on the preferred shares is accorded ordinary treatment for federal income tax purposes, but 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 $141,979.  This 
valuation allowance is included as a component in the full valuation allowance against the Bank’s deferred tax 
assets.

Based upon our analysis of available evidence, we have determined that it is “more likely than not” that all of 
our deferred income tax assets as of December 31, 2009 and 2008 will not be fully realized and therefore a 
valuation allowance was recorded.

28

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

7. 

INCOME TAXES (Continued)

At December 31, 2009, the Bank had Federal and State net operating loss carry-forwards (NOLs) of $5,782,105 
and $3,782,070, respectively.  The Federal and State NOLs begin to expire in 2027 and 2019, 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.  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, 2009 and 2008, there were no unrecognized tax benefits or interest and penalties accrued 
by the Bank

8. 

BORROWING ARRANGEMENTS

The  Bank  has  $15,000,000  in  unsecured  borrowing  arrangements  with  four  of  its  correspondent  banks  to 
meet short-term liquidity needs.  In a separate agreement, the Bank can borrow up to the lesser of $8,000,000 
or the total market value of securities pledged to a correspondent bank under a repurchase agreement.  At 
December 31, 2009 and 2008, there were no investment securities pledged to the correspondent bank under 
this agreement.  There were $5,000,000 in borrowings outstanding under these arrangements at December 31, 
2009 and none in 2008.

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, 2009, amounts pledged and available under such limits were approximately $34,614,000.  

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, 2009, amounts pledged and available under such limits were approximately $17,439,000 and $5,439,000, 
respectively.  There were $12,000,000 in borrowings outstanding under this arrangement at fixed interest rates 
ranging from 1.68% to 2.79% at December 31, 2009, with an average maturity of approximately 3.4 years.

9. 

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.

29

California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

9. 

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Continued)

Operating Leases (Continued)

Future minimum lease payments are as follows:

Year Ending
December 31, 

2010 
2011 
2012 
2013 
2014 
Thereafter 

$ 

396,090
405,765
414,990
424,755
434,970
184,950

$ 

2,261,520

Rental expense included in occupancy and equipment expense totaled $408,276 and $409,906 for the years 
ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

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:

December 31,  

2009 

2008 

Commitments to extend credit 
Standby letters of credit 

$   62,081,896  $ 
1,352,018  $ 
$ 

61,609,606
996,654

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.

30

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

9. 

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, 2009 and 2008.  The Bank 
recognizes these fees as revenue over the term of the commitment or when the commitment is used.

Commercial loan commitments represent approximately 71% 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 24% 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 5% 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 58% and 53% of the Bank’s loan portfolio at December 31, 2009 and 
2008, 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 were fully guaranteed by the FDIC for the entire amount in the account and, as 
a result of the program, there were no uninsured deposits with correspondent banks at December 31, 2009 
or  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. 

31

California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

10. 

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  years  ended  December  31,  2009  and  2008,  the  compensation  cost  recognized  for  stock  option 
compensation was $729,139 and $718,788, respectively.

A summary of option activity under the Plan for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008 is presented 
below:

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 

Granted and outstanding 
  at December 31, 2008 
Granted 
Forfeited 
Outstanding at 
  December 31, 2009 

Vested or expected to vest
  at December 31, 2009 
Exercisable at 
  December 31, 2009 

  Weighted 
  Average 
  Exercise 

Price 

  Weighted
  Average 
  Remaining   
  Contractual   
 Term (Years) 

  Shares 

           592,250  $ 
            21,500  $           10.16             
           (4,250)  $            10.00             

10.00 

           609,500  $ 

10.01 

                8.61 

594,975  $ 

10.01 

                8.61 

           302,674  $ 

10.00 

               8.58 

609,500  $ 
58,647  $ 
(7,444)  $ 

10.01 
7.61 
10.48 

660,703  $ 

9.79 

644,671  $ 

9.79 

487,381  $ 

10.01 

                8.61 

7.81

7.81

7.59

As  of  December  31,  2009,  the  unrecognized  compensation  cost  related  to  non-vested  stock  option  awards 
totaled $671,531.  That cost is expected to be amortized on a straight-line basis over a weighted average period 
of 0.83 years and will be adjusted for subsequent changes in estimated forfeitures.

32

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
       
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

10. 

SHARE-BASED PAYMENT (Continued)

Stock Option Awards (Continued)

At December 31, 2009, there was no intrinsic value associated with outstanding stock option awards.

The following information relates to stock option grants granted during the years ended December 31, 2009 
and 2008:

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 

2009 

2008 

$ 

5.03  $ 

3.86

6 years 
74.23% 
0% 
2.25% 

6 years
33.22%
0%
3.09%

11. 

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, 2009, 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,  2009  and 
2008.

33

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

11. 

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.

2009 

2008 

  Amount 

  Ratio   

  Amount 

  Ratio 

Leverage Ratio

California Bank of Commerce 

$ 23,106,000    12.8%  $ 20,179,000   

15.2%

Minimum requirement for “Well-Capitalized”
institution under prompt corrective action

$   9,040,000    5.0%  $   6,643,000   
  provisions 
Minimum regulatory requirement 
$   7,233,000    4.0%  $   5,315,000   
Minimum leverage ratio for de novo institution  $ 14,465,000    8.0%  $ 10,629,000   

5.0%
4.0%
8.0%

Tier 1 Risk-Based Capital Ratio

California Bank of Commerce 

$ 23,106,000    13.4%  $ 20,179,000   

14.4%

Minimum requirement for “Well-Capitalized”
institution under prompt corrective action

  provisions 
Minimum regulatory requirement 

Total Risk-Based Capital Ratio

$ 10,337,000    6.0%  $   8,412,000   
$   6,891,000    4.0%  $   5,608,000   

6.0%
4.0%

California Bank of Commerce 

$ 25,265,000    14.7%  $ 21,669,000   

15.5%

Minimum requirement for “Well-Capitalized”
institution under prompt corrective action

  provisions 
Minimum regulatory requirement 

$ 17,228,000    10.0%  $ 14,020,000   
$ 13,782,000    8.0%  $ 11,216,000   

10.0%
8.0%

34

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

12. 

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.  

The following is a summary of the aggregate activity involving related party borrowers during the year ended 
December 31, 2009:

Balance, December 31, 2008 

Disbursements 
Amounts participated with other banks 
Amounts repaid 

Balance, December 31, 2009 

Undisbursed commitments to related parties,
  December 31, 2009 

$ 

6,370,560

3,511,927
18,274
(1,909,340)

$ 

7,991,421

$ 

2,116,510

At December 31, 2009, the Bank’s deposits from related parties totaled $3,292,000.

The Bank also leases its office from a company owned by a member of the Board of Directors.  Rental payments 
under this agreement totaled $423,756 for the year ended December 31, 2009 and $425,386 for the year ended 
December 31, 2008.

13. 

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 years ended 
December 31, 2009 or 2008.

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 years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008 totaled $50,782 and 
$38,711, respectively.  Accrued compensation payable under the salary continuation plan totaled $135,774 and 
$84,992 at December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively, and is included in accrued interest payable and other 
liabilities on the Bank’s balance sheet.

35

 
 
 
California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

14. 

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:

For the Year Ended December 31, 2009

Other comprehensive income:
  Unrealized holding gains on available-
for-sale investment securities    
  Less: reclassification adjustment for 

Before 
Tax 

Tax 
Liability 

After 
Tax 

486,887 

(199,624) 

287,263

  realized gains included in net income 

106,971 

(43,858) 

63,113

  Other comprehensive income from
   available-for-sale investment
   securities 

  $ 

379,916  $ 

(155,766)  $ 

224,150

For the Year Ended December 31, 2008

Other comprehensive income:
  Unrealized holding gains on available-
for-sale investment securities    
  Less: reclassification adjustment for 

Before 
Tax 

Tax 
Liability 

After 
Tax 

393,121 

(161,180) 

231,941

  realized gains included in net income 

130,778 

(53,619) 

77,159

  Other comprehensive income from
   available-for-sale investment
   securities 

  $ 

262,343  $ 

(107,561)  $ 

154,782

36

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

15. 

OTHER EXPENSES

Other expenses for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008 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 

16. 

PREFERRED STOCK 

$ 

2009 

2008 

224,109  $ 
177,222 
169,625 
201,618 
165,412 
337,590 
(25,000)   
25,327 
74,779 
257,080 

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

$ 

1,607,762  $ 

1,327,569

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”), which were 
issued to the United States Department of the Treasury in exchange for warrants to purchase 200.002 shares 
of Preferred Stock with a liquidation value of $1,000 per share.  Costs incurred by the Bank for the issuance of 
the Series A and Series B Preferred Stock totaled $54,230. 

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 Series B Preferred will qualify as Tier 
1 capital and will pay non-cumulative dividends quarterly 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. 

37

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

16. 

PREFERRED STOCK (Continued)

The Series A Preferred Stock and the Series B Preferred Stock were issued in a private placement exempt from 
registration pursuant to Section 4(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.  Neither the Series A nor the 
Series B Preferred Stock will be subject to any contractual restrictions on transfer, except that the Treasury and 
its transferees shall not effect any transfer of the Series A or Series B Preferred Stock which would require us to 
become subject to the periodic reporting requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act.

The  Series  A  Preferred  and  Series  B  Preferred  are  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.

With respect to dividends on our common stock, the Treasury’s consent shall be required for any increase in 
common dividends per share until the third anniversary of the date of its investment, unless prior to such third 
anniversary the Series A Preferred Stock and the Warrant Preferred are redeemed in whole or the Treasury has 
transferred all of the Series A Preferred Stock and Warrant Preferred to third parties.  After the third anniversary 
and  prior  to  the  tenth  anniversary,  the  Treasury’s  consent  shall  be  required  for  any  increase  in  aggregate 
common dividends per share greater than 3% per annum; provided that no increase in common dividends may 
be made as a result of any dividend paid in common shares, any stock split or similar transaction.  After the 
tenth anniversary, we are prohibited from paying common dividends or repurchasing any equity securities or 
trust preferred securities until all equity securities held by the Treasury are redeemed in whole or the Treasury 
has transferred all of such equity securities to third parties.

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.

38

California Bank of Commerce

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

16. 

PREFERRED STOCK (Continued)

The Bank recorded a discount on the Series A Preferred Stock at approximately the liquidation preference of 
the Series B Preferred Stock.  The discount recorded on the Series A Preferred Stock will be amortized on the 
level-yield method over 5 years.

17. 

SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

We have reviewed all events occurring from December 31, 2009 through March 22, 2010, the date the financial 
statements were available to be issued, and no subsequent events occurred requiring accrual or disclosure.

39

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

925.283.2265

www.californiabankofcommerce.com

Member FDIC