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Financial Institutions, Inc.

fisi · NASDAQ Financial Services
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Ticker fisi
Exchange NASDAQ
Sector Financial Services
Industry Banks - Regional
Employees 598
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FY2018 Annual Report · Financial Institutions, Inc.
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Real progress 
means we all grow.

Financial Institutions, Inc.     2018 Annual Report

Martin K. Birmingham (President and Chief Executive Officer) 
and Robert N. Latella (Chairman of the Board)

Corporate Profile

Financial Institutions, Inc. provides diversified financial services through its subsidiaries Five Star Bank, SDN Insurance Agency,
Courier Capital, and HNP Capital. 

Five Star Bank provides a wide range of consumer and commercial banking and lending services to individuals, municipalities 
and businesses through a network of more than 50 offices throughout Western and Central New York State. Additional
Five Star Bank information is available at www.five-starbank.com.

SDN Insurance Agency provides a broad range of insurance services to personal and business clients.

Courier Capital and HNP Capital provide customized investment management, investment consulting and retirement plan
services to individuals, businesses, institutions, foundations and retirement plans. 

Financial Institutions, Inc. and its subsidiaries employ approximately 700 individuals. The Company’s stock is listed on the 
Nasdaq Global Select Market under the symbol FISI. Additional information is available at www.fiiwarsaw.com.

Financial Institutions, Inc. 2018 Annual Report

Fellow Shareholders
In 2018 we continued our focus on achieving 
sustainable earnings growth through the 
execution of our strategic plan. 

We generated strong financial results, comp

ompleted the acquisition

of a wealth management firm to increase fee-based

ased revenue 

ing
streams, acquired strategic talent and launched a branding

campaign to increase awareness of the Five Star Bank brand

and the products and services we offer.

2018 Results

Strong loan growth and increased loan yields resulted in the 

highest full-year net interest income in our company’s history of

$123 million, an increase of 9.1% from 2017. Total loans grew

by 12.9%, with the highest growth achieved in commercial

business loans at 23.9%, commercial mortgage loans at 18.5%

and residential real estate loans at 12.7%. The average loan 

portfolio yield for 2018 was 4.51%, an increase of 29 basis points.

Total Loans
Total Loans
[$ in Millionss]]
[$ in Millions]
[$ in Millions]

$2,340

$2,084

$2,735

$876

$582

$18

$752

$550

$18

$1,020

$1,259

$3,087

$920

$634

$17

$1,516

$1,912

$662

$487

$21

$742

$677

$508

$19

$880

‘14                 ‘15                 ‘16                 ‘17               ‘18

Commercial        Consumer Other       Residential Real Estate       Consumer Indirect

Our ability to deliver loan growth at these levels is attributable 

to investments made over the past 30 months in experienced lending and credit professionals, combined with our 

competitively advantaged community bank model grounded in responsive personal service, local leadership and

local decision-making. A significant effort has been invested in growing our commercial and residential mortgage

businesses because they are relationship-based, enabling us to leverage meaningful opportunities to incorporate

banking, insurance and investment solutions for our borrowers.

01

 
2018 Financial Highlights

Consumer indirect lending continues 
to be a profitable business for us and a
core competency. Our focus on loans
more likely to lead to full relationships
resulted in lower growth in this category
in 2018. The consumer indirect loan
portfolio at December 31, 2018
represented 29.8% of our total loan
portfolio, down from 32.0% at year-
end 2017 and a peak of 35% in 2013.

We have not and will not lose sight of 
the importance of credit discipline and
the management of risk as the size of 
our loan portfolio increases. We have
invested in credit and risk personnel
while supporting what we believe is an
effective and efficient risk and control
environment. In 2018, substantial 
progress was made to incorporate our 
enterprise risk management and 
compliance management programs in
the management and governance 
routines of the company. 

We believe asset quality remains
sound. Provision for loan losses was $4
million lower than the prior year, 
reflecting improved credit performance
of our loan portfolios. At year-end
2018, the ratio of non-performing loans 
to total loans was 23 basis points, the
lowest quarterly level experienced over
the past ten years. Net charge-offs to 
average loans for the year of 33 basis 
points was five basis points below the
ten-year average.

Reflecting the positive impact of the 
execution of strategic initiatives and
related investments, noninterest 
income was $36.5 million, $1.7 million
higher than 2017. Primary drivers
of growth were higher investment 
advisory fees, income from limited 
partnership investments and fees
associated with interest rate swaps 
utilized by our commercial borrowers. 

We experienced noninterest expense
growth in 2018 with expenses $10

Growing Noninterest Income
[$ in Millions]

$25.4

$30.3

$35.8

$34.7

$36.5

‘14                      ‘15                       ‘16                       ‘17                      ‘18

Net Income, Earnings  
per Share & Dividends
[$ in Millions, except per share amounts]

      Net Income Available to Common Shareholders
      Diluted Earning per Common Share
      Cash Dividends Declared 
      per Common Share

$38.1

$32.1

$2.13
$2.13

$0.85
$0.85

$2.39

$0.96

$30.5

$2.10
$2.10
$210

$0.81
$0.81

$27.9
$27.9

$26.9
$26.9

$200
$2.00
$2.00

$0.77
$077

$190
$1.90
$1.90

$0.80
$0.80

million higher than the prior year.
The increase was driven by
increased headcount focused on
revenue growth, the acquisition of
a wealth management subsidiary,
higher advertising and promotion
expense in connection with our 
Five Star Bank brand campaign, 
and incremental compensation to
employees not covered by existing 
incentive programs.  

Net income for 2018 was $39.5 
million, $6 million higher than 2017. 
After preferred dividends, net
income available to common 
shareholders was $38.1 million.
Diluted earnings per share of $2.39 
represented a 12.2% increase 
compared to $2.13 in 2017. 

Total deposits grew $157 million 
in 2018 to $3.4 billion as a result of
business development efforts,
including the gathering of deposits
from new loan customers.

Common book value per share
increased from $22.85 to $23.79,
or $0.94 per share, during the year
and tangible common book value 
per share* increased for the 10th 
consecutive year from $18.16 to
$19.01, or $0.85 per share.

‘14                 ‘15                 ‘16                 ‘17               ‘18

Dividends

Total Deposits 
[$ in Millions]

$3,000

$2,000

$1,000

$2,451

$1,858

$593

$2,731

$2,094

$637

$3,367

$3,210

$2,358

$2,347

$2,995

$2,293

$702

$852

$1,020

‘14                   ‘15                  ‘16                 ‘17                  ‘18 

Cash dividends declared to 
shareholders in 2018 totaled $0.96
per share, an increase of 12.9%
from 2017. In February 2019, the
company’s board of directors
increased the quarterly dividend to
common shareholders by 4.2% to
$0.25 per share per quarter, or
$1.00 per share on an annualized
basis. This increase reflects our 
confidence in the company’s
performance and outlook as well 
as our commitment to increasing 
shareholder value.

Financial Institutions, Inc. 2018 Annual Report

* Non-GAAP measure; refer to GAAP to Non-GAAP reconciliation on page 34.

 
Total Investment Securities
Repositioning Our Balance Sheet by Deploying  
Securities into Loans 
[$ in Millions]

$917

$1,030

$1,083

$1,041

$892

‘14                     ‘15                      ‘16                      ‘17                     ‘18

Common Book Value 
& Tangible Common 
Book Value*
[per share]

      Common Book Value
      Tangible Common Book Value*

$23.79

$19.01
$19.01

$22.85

$18.16
$18.16

$20.82
$20.82

$19.49
$19.49

$15.62
$15.62

$14.77
$14.77

$18.57
$18.57

$13.71

‘14                 ‘15                 ‘16                 ‘17               ‘18

Repositioning Our Balance Sheet

In 2018, we launched an initiative to convert a portion of low-yield, low-risk 
weighted marketable securities into higher-yielding loans. This is being
accomplished by funding a portion of loan portfolio growth with maturities,
sales and payments from the investment securities portfolio. During 2018,
we funded approximately $143 million of new loans with proceeds from
securities. The average yield of the securities portfolio at year-end was
2.33%, 218 basis points lower than the yield on our loan portfolio.

Despite the challenging interest rate environment, we were able to maintain
a relatively stable net interest margin (“NIM”) in 2018, at 3.18% for the 
year compared to 3.21% in 2017. NIM stability can be attributed to an
improvement in interest-earning asset mix, including the impact of funding
loans with proceeds from the securities portfolio and effective management
of funding costs

Growing Our Wealth Management Platform

On June 1, 2018, the company acquired HNP Capital, an SEC-registered
investment advisory, wealth management and family office services firm 
based in Rochester. HNP Capital offers investment management, retirement
plan services, alternative investments, financial planning and family office
services to more than 250 clients. 

This acquisition demonstrates an ongoing commitment to our long-term
strategy of growing noninterest income. It also filled an existing geographic
gap in our wealth management business by providing coverage of 
Rochester and the eastern side of the market. Our Courier Capital 
subsidiary provides strong coverage of Buffalo and the western portion
of the market.

HNP Capital’s principals remain with the firm and manage their portfolios,
which totaled approximately $344 million at the time of the acquisition.

Investments in People

Prior to 2017, we had an undersized residential mortgage lending team and
smaller-than-peer portfolio. In 2017, we hired eight mortgage loan officers
and the back-office support personnel necessary to underwrite and process 
their production. We extended this momentum in 2018 with the addition of
six mortgage loan officers. We continue to believe that this is the right time 

to expand our residential mortgage lending capabilities, capitalizing on market opportunities that ultimately lead to growth in full 
relationships with new customers and higher interest income and fees related to the servicing and sale of loans.  

In September we hired a Commercial Market Executive (“CME”) for the Central New York region to build commercial relationships, 
grow Five Star Bank’s commercial loan portfolio and increase awareness of the bank. Our new CME is experienced and well-
established in the region and we believe she will generate significant new business for the organization. We were already 
selectively lending in Central New York, in Syracuse and Ithaca, with existing customers as they expanded into this region. 
We made the decision to add this well-known executive in the market rather than service these and new relationships in the 
market out of the Rochester office.

03

 
Expanding Our Team and Our Focus

We effectively implemented succession plans during the 
year for two key executive retirements. Valerie Benjamin was
named Chief Human Resources Officer (“CHRO”), responsible
for creating a compelling employee value proposition across
the enterprise. Val is an experienced leader, having served 
most recently as the Associate Dean of Human Resources at 
the Cornell University’s Industrial and Labor Relations School
and CHRO at EarthLink, following many years as the Global 
Director for Leadership, Culture and Values at Accenture. 

Val succeeds Paula Dolan, who led our human resources
function beginning in 2013 and significantly contributed to 
the development and evolution of our enterprise strategy. 
I would like to thank Paula for her many contributions to our
company and we wish her the best in retirement.

In the spring of 2018, we announced that Kevin Klotzbach 
would step down as Chief Financial Officer at the end of 
the first quarter of 2019. In late October, following a national 
search, we announced that Justin Bigham would be his 
successor. Justin was named Deputy Chief Financial Officer
with responsibility for finance and treasury operations.

Justin earned his CPA while working at Pricewaterhouse-
Coopers and joins us with nearly 15 years of experience 
in Western New York banking. On April 1, 2019, Justin was 
named Chief Financial Officer and Kevin assumed the role 
of Senior Financial Advisor. Kevin will continue to support
the company through the end of this year to ensure a 
successful transition.

Kevin joined our organization in 2001 as Treasurer and was 
named CFO in 2013. He and I worked together to effect 
positive change in our organization
and his efforts were instrumental 
in growing and strengthening 
our company. On behalf of all our
associates, I thank Kevin for all he 
has done in support of our share-
holders, associates, customers
and the communities we serve.

Nearly 40% increase 
in unaided awareness  
of Five Star Bank  
in our markets.   

Realignment of Leadership

We made changes to the executive leadership team in the 
fourth quarter to better meet the needs of customers and
support growth initiatives. The intent of the reorganization 
was to better align our customer-facing relationship groups
and operating units that impact the customer experience. 
This organizational approach will allow us to more effectively 
confirm the central view of a customer relationship which 
will enhance our ability to serve our customers with financial 
education, advice and the solutions we offer to meet their

Financial Institutions, Inc. 2018 Annual Report

banking, insurance and investment needs. My executive 
leadership team is now comprised of:
•  Bill Kreienberg–Chief Banking and Revenue Officer, a 
new role consolidating all revenue and relationship- 
building businesses for banking, insurance and wealth 
management

•  Justin Bigham–Chief Financial Officer
•  Valerie Benjamin–Chief Human Resources Officer
•  Joe Dugan–Chief Experience and Go To Market Officer,  

a new role consolidating leadership of marketing,  
technology, products, data management and customer 
experience

•  Sean Willett–Chief Administration Officer, leading audit, 

compliance, operations, risk and strategy

I firmly believe that these leadership changes and the related 
reorganization will facilitate successful execution of our
long-term strategic plan.

Five Star Bank Brand Campaign

A refreshed Five Star Bank brand was introduced to the market
in February 2018. The campaign is designed to create a more
recognized brand across all the communities we serve and
increase the understanding of the depth of products and
services offered under the Five Star Bank umbrella.

Metrics used to measure the impact of
the brand campaign correlate with our 
success across each step of the path
to purchase model from awareness
to consideration, evaluation, purchase 
and advocacy. Our current campaign 
is focused on awareness, where
effectiveness is measured by 
unaided awareness. Target metrics 
were exceeded in 2018 with a nearly
40% increase in unaided awareness of Five Star Bank in
our markets.   

We redesigned the Five Star Bank website in connection 
with the brand launch to incorporate design elements of the
brand and significantly enhance functionality and navigation.
We updated content with more relevant and helpful
information as well. Website enhancements positively
impacted all digital devices, delivering an improved user     

experience on computers, tablets, and mobile phon

nes. 

Website analytics show that these enhancements
n traffic to the
rease in traffic to the
and the branding campaign drove a significant incr
Five Star Bank website with a 20% increase in unique visitors (unpaid) 
)
and a 20% increase in new user traffic (unpaid) in 2018.

(

Enhancing the Five Star Employee Experience

The most vital component of our past, current and future success is
the Five Star family – all the associates of Five Star Bank, SDN Insurance 
Agency, Courier Capital and HNP Capital. At Five Star we work as a 
team in a welcoming environment of trust, integrity and respect, and 
have established the Five Star Experience cultural framework to support 
employee engagement. 

We conduct surveys to measure engagement and I am pleased to report 
that in 2018 we experienced improvement in engagement scores for 
the second year in a row. Metrics are trending upward; however, we still
have room for improvement. We will continue to use survey results and
employee responses to identify ways 
to improve employee engagement. 
A workforce comprised of engaged 
employees is critical for us to be
successful in delivering on our
promise to “Put our customers’ 
financial well-being at the heart of 
everything we do.”

In January 2018 we enhanced the 
value of health, dental and wellness 
offerings through a change in our 
insurance provider. As a result,
associates have benefited from
better access to affordable,
high-quality health care and the
company has benefited from lower 
plan costs. 

Savings from the Tax Cuts and Jobs
Act also enabled us to strengthen 
relationships with employees. We 
paid a one-time award of $500 to
employees not covered by certain
incentive programs in February 2018, 
with more than 70% of employees 
receiving the award. Subsequently, 
these same employees received a
profit-share payment in early 2019 
based on the company’s 2018 
performance.

05

Corporate Strategy and Enterprise Risk Management 

Our Board of Directors regularly reviews our strategy, the environment in which we are operating and the
progress we are making toward the goals we set.  Our strategy clearly defines strategic priorities and contains
annual and multi-year plans to deliver on these priorities. Throughout 2018, the board and management spent 
considerable time working together to refresh our long-term strategy, building on the strong foundation and
momentum established over the last several years. 

We remain committed to an effective and efficient risk and control environment and our long-term strategy
is firmly linked to an enterprise risk management program (“ERM”). In 2018, the board reviewed our efforts to
further develop and increase the effectiveness of our ERM program and approved our risk appetite statement, 
documenting the tolerance of intended risks associated with the execution of our long-term strategy.

Strategy Map

Long-Term Value

Stakeholder Value Proposition

Attractive Long-Term  
Returns for  
Shareholders

Meaningful Customer  
Experiences &  
Relationships

Engaged &  
Motivated  
Associates

Positive  
Contributions to  
Our Communities

Effective 
Engagement & 
Communication 
with Regulators

Strategic Outcomes

Grow & Sustain Deposits

+

Credit Disciplined 
Loan Growth

+

Diversify Revenues

+

Maintain Expense  
Discipline

Sustaiaiiined
Sustained 
Profitability

Our Enablers

Capital & Funding

Robust, Usable Data  
& Technology

Scalable & Efficient 
Operating Model

Sound Risk &  
Compliant Environment

Value Added Products  
& Services

Exceptional Customer  
Experience & Engagement

Recognized &  
Trusted Brand

Talented & Empowered  
Associates

Our Foundational Elements

Human Capital

Organizational Framework
Culture | Leadership | Teamwork | Alignment

Investing in Our Communities

Five Star Bank has made significant investments in products and people to ensure the availability of safe, 
transparent and fair financial products. These offerings include a suite of products tailored to meet the needs of 
unbanked, underbanked and low-to-moderate income individuals. We are focused on helping all our customers 
build financial security. 

Financial Institutions, Inc. 2018 Annual Report

06

We understand that as an employer, neighbor and 
steward of the communities where we operate, our 
responsibilities extend beyond the delivery of banking, 
insurance and investment solutions. Accordingly, we 
provide support to our communities in many ways.
•  We provide financial grants to programs and  
organizations that empower individuals and  
neighborhoods.

•   We sponsor events that enrich the lives of the  

residents of our communities. 

•  We are proud to support organizations across our  
operating footprint through donations and community 
sponsorships.

•  Giving back is a high priority for all of us – our  
associates support more than 400 different  
community and professional organizations as  
volunteers, trustees and committee members. 

•  A strong commitment to small business lending  
is demonstrated by Five Star Bank’s continued  
recognition as a top lender in our geographic  
footprint by the Small Business Administration. 
•  We have invested in a Community Development  

Officer and Community Development Mortgage Loan 
Officers to increase access to our products and  
services for those most in need.

•  We also recognize the need for affordable and  

special needs housing in Upstate New York and in 2018 
initiated a program to provide both debt and equity 
financing for these projects. 

We welcome the opportunity to serve our communities
and firmly believe that if our communities succeed,
we will succeed.

Making 
progress  
in the  
community.

Conclusion

We are committed to our shareholders, customers, associates and the communities we serve.

We’ve made significant investments in systems, people and platforms over the past five years in 

support of all these constituencies, and I believe we are well-positioned to build on past results. 

With such large and compelling opportunities in front of us and the capabilities we possess, the

outlook for our company is bright.

I also want to take this opportunity to thank retiring Board member Jim Wyckoff for 35 years of

dedicated service to the company. We have benefited from his broad perspectives, sound judgment 

and constant counsel. Jim’s commitment to an effective and accountable governance process

contributed to invigorating discourse among Board members and management in support of strong

execution of our plans and initiatives and the creation of long-term shareholder value.  

As we take stock of Financial Institutions, Inc. today, we can see tangible results of the hard work

that has strengthened and transformed our company which is producing stronger financial

results and momentum. All of this is made possible by the more than 700 teammates who come

to work every day to serve our customers and improve our communities. Together, we will take the 

company forward to deliver more value for those we serve and for our shareholders. 

Thank you for your support and investment in Financial Institutions, Inc. 

Cordially,

Martin K. Birmingham

President and Chief Executive Officer

April 22, 2019

Financial Institutions, Inc. 2018 Annual Report

08

Five Star Leadership

Five Star Bank
Executive Management   
Martin K. Birmingham 1  
President and Chief Executive Officer 

Sonia M. Dumbleton 
Controller 

Michael D. Grover 
Chief Accounting Officer, Financial 
Reporting and Tax Manager

William L. Kreienberg 1   
Executive Vice President, Chief Banking and 
Revenue Officer and General Counsel  

Laura J. Marlowe 
Director of Marketing

Kevin B. Klotzbach 2   
Executive Vice President, Chief Financial  
Officer and Treasurer through March 31, 2019  

Edward “Ted” S. Oexle 
C&I Lending Executive and Buffalo 
Regional President

Justin K. Bigham 1  
Executive Vice President, Chief Financial 
Officer and Treasurer as of April 1, 2019 

Valerie C. Benjamin 
Chief Human Resources Officer 

Joseph L. Dugan  
Chief Experience and Go To Market Officer

Sean M. Willett 
Chief Administration Officer 

Operating Committee3
Scott D. Bader 
Technology Services Director

Amy M. Barone 
Director of Operations

Bethany L. Bowers 
Chief Compliance Officer

Samuel J. Burruano, Jr.  
Deputy General Counsel and Corporate 
Secretary

Craig J. Burton 
Commercial Real Estate Executive

Diane M. Camelio 
Director of Retail Relationships 

David G. Case 
Chief Commercial Credit Officer

Staci L. Casseri 
Director of Customer Experience 

Robert J. Cummins 
Assistant Treasurer

Timothy J. Perrotta 
Manager of Total Rewards

Randall R. Phillips 
Chief Risk Officer

Cory M. Popen 
Enterprise Data Manager

Brenda B. Schell 
Audit Manager 

Other Senior Management
Jon M. Fogle 
Commercial Market Executive and 
Rochester Regional President  

Karla J.L. Gadley  
Community Development Officer

Alison K. Miller
Commercial Market Executive-Central NY 

SDN Insurance Agency, LLC 
William E. Gallagher  
Managing Director

Courier Capital, LLC 
Thomas J. Hanlon 
President

HNP Capital, LLC   
John R. Piccirilli   
President

Board of Directors   
Karl V. Anderson, Jr. 4 5 8 
Of Counsel at Snavely, Plaskov and 
Mullen, PLLC

Martin K. Birmingham 
President and CEO of Financial  
Institutions, Inc. and Five Star Bank

Donald K. Boswell 4 7  
President and CEO of the Western New  
York Public Broadcasting Association  
(WNED-TV and WBFO-FM)

Dawn H. Burlew 6 8  
Director of Business Development at  
Corning Enterprises

Andrew W. Dorn, Jr. 5 6 8 
Co-Managing Director and Director of  
Government and Community Relations of  
Energy Solutions Consortium, LLC

Robert M. Glaser 4 5  
President of Glaser Consulting, LLC

Samuel M. Gullo 4 6  
Owner and Operator of Family Furniture

Susan R. Holliday 5 6 7  
CEO of Dumbwaiter Design, LLC

Robert N. Latella 5  
Chairman of Financial Institutions, Inc.  
and Five Star Bank; Of Counsel at  
Barclay Damon, LLP; and COO of 
Integrated Nano-Technologies, LLC

Kim E. VanGelder 7 8  
Chief Information Officer and Senior  
Vice President of Eastman Kodak  
Company

James H. Wyckoff, PhD 6 7   
University of Virginia Curry Memorial 
Professor of Education and Policy and  
Director of the Center for Education  
Policy and Workforce Competitiveness

1   Also a Financial Institutions, Inc. officer  
2  Financial Institutions, Inc. officer through March 31, 2019;  
    currently serves as EVP, Senior Financial Advisor 
3   In addition to Executive Management 
4  Audit Committee; Robert M. Glaser, Chair 

5  Executive Committee; Robert N. Latella, Chair 
6  Management Development and Compensation Committee; Andrew W. Dorn, Jr., Chair 
7  Nominating and Governance Committee; Susan R. Holliday, Chair 
8  Risk Oversight Committee; Karl V. Anderson, Jr., Chair 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Five Year Financial Highlights

 (Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

At or for the year ended December 31,

   2018          

 2017

  2016

   2015

 2014

Selected financial condition data:
Total assets
Loans, net
Investment securities
Deposits
Borrowings
Shareholders’ equity
Common shareholders’ equity
Tangible common shareholders’ equity 1y

Selected operations data:
Interest income
Interest expense
Net interest income
Provision for loan losses
Net interest income after provision for loan losses
Noninterest income
Noninterest expense
Income before income taxes
Income tax expense
Net income
Preferred stock dividends
Net income available to common shareholders

Stock and related per share data:
Earnings per common share:
Basic
Diluted
Cash dividends declared per common share
Common book value per share
Tangible common book value per share 1
Market price (Nasdaq: FISI):
High
Low
Close

Performance and Capital ratios:
Net income, returns on:

Average assets
Average equity

Common dividend payout ratio
Net interst margin (fully tax-equivalent)
Effective tax rate
Efficiency ratio2
Common equity to assets
Tangible commom equity to tangible assets1

Other data
Number of branches
Full time equivalent employees

$4,311,698 
3,052,684
892,258
3,366,907
508,702
396,293
378,965
302,792

$4,105,210
2,700,345
1,041,439
3,210,174
485,331
381,177
363,848
289,145

$3,710,340
2,309,227
1,083,264
2,995,222
370,561
320,054
302,714
227,074

$3,381,024
2,056,677
1,030,112
2,730,531
332,090
293,844
276,504
209,558

$3,089,521
1,884,365
916,932
2,450,527
334,804
279,532
262,192
193,553

$152,732
29,868
122,864
8,934
113,930
36,478
100,876
49,532
10,006
$39,526
1,461
$38,065

$2.39
$2.39
$0.96
$23.79
$19.01

$34.35
$24.49
$25.70

0.95%
10.18%
40.17%
3.18%
20.2%
62.73%
8.79%
7.15%

$130,110
17,495
112,615
13,361
99,254
34,730
90,513
43,471
9,945
$33,526
1,462
$32,064

$2.13
$2.13
$0.85
$22.85
$18.16

$35.40
$25.65
$31.10

0.86%
9.62%
39.91%
3.21%
22.9%
60.65%
8.86%
7.17%

$115,231
12,541
102,690
9,638
93,052
35,760
84,671
44,141
12,210
$31,931
1,462
$30,469

$2.11
$2.10
$0.81
$20.82
$15.62

$34.55
$25.98
$34.20

0.90%
10.01%
38.39%
3.24%
27.7%
60.95%
8.16%
6.25%

$105,450
10,137
95,313
7,381
87,932
30,337
79,393
38,876
10,539
$28,337
1,462
$26,875

$1.91
$1.90
$0.80
$19.49
$14.77

$ 29.04
$ 21.67
$28.00

0.87%
9.78%
41.88%
3.28%
27.1%
62.44%
8.18%
6.32%

53
702

53
639

52
631

50
660

$101,055
7,281
93,774
7,789
85,985
25,350
72,355
38,980
9,625
$29,355
1,462
$27,893

$2.01
$2.00
$0.77
$18.57
$13.71

$27.02
$19.72
$25.15

0.98%
10.80%
38.31%
3.50%
24.7%
59.18%
8.49%
6.41%

49
622

1  This is a non-GAAP measure that we believe is useful in understanding our financial performance and condition. Refer to the GAAP to Non-GAAP Reconciliation on page 34 of our Annual 
   Report on Form 10-K, which follows, for further information.
2 Efficiency ratio provides a ratio of operating expenses to operating income. Efficiency ratio is calculated by dividing noninterest expense by net revenue, which is defined as the sum of tax-
   equivalent net interest income and noninterest income before net gains on investment securities. The efficiency ratio is not a financial measurement required by GAAP. However, the efficiency 
   ratio is used by management in its assessment of financial performance specifically as it relates to noninterest expense control. Management also believes such information is useful to
   investors in evaluating Company performance.

 
 
 
  
 
   
     
 
 
UNITED STATES 
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION 
Washington, D.C. 20549 

(Mark One) 

Form 10-K 

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

For the fiscal year ended             December 31, 2018      
      OR 

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

For the transition period from                                to                             

Commission file number 000-26481 

FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. 
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) 

NEW YORK 
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)

16-0816610 
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

220 LIBERTY STREET, WARSAW, NEW YORK
(Address of principal executive offices) 

14569 
(ZIP Code) 

    Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:      (585) 786-1100 

Securities registered under Section 12(b) of the Exchange Act: 

Title of each class 
Common stock, par value $.01 per share 

Securities registered under Section 12(g) of the Exchange Act:                  NONE 

Name of exchange on which registered
Nasdaq Global Select Market

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.     Yes (cid:1407)    No (cid:1408) 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.  Yes (cid:1407)      No (cid:1408) 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during 
the past 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 
90 days.                                                                                           Yes (cid:1408)    No (cid:1407) 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of 
Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such 
files).                                                                                                                  Yes (cid:1408)    No (cid:1407) 

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§ 229.405 of this chapter) is not contained herein, and will not 
be contained, to the best of the registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or 
any amendment to this Form 10-K.    (cid:1407) 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an 
emerging growth company. See definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company” and “emerging growth company” in 
Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. 

Large accelerated filer 
Non-accelerated filer 

(cid:1407) 
(cid:1407) 

Accelerated filer 
Smaller reporting company 
Emerging growth company 

(cid:1408) 
(cid:1407) 
(cid:1407) 

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or 
revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act  (cid:1407) 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).        Yes (cid:1407)    No (cid:1408) 
The aggregate market value of the registrant’s common stock, par value $0.01 per share, held by non-affiliates of the registrant, as computed by reference to the 
June 30, 2018 closing price reported by Nasdaq, was approximately $502,466,000. 

As of February 22, 2019, there were outstanding, exclusive of treasury shares, 15,928,598 shares of the registrant’s common stock. 

Portions of the registrant’s proxy statement for the 2019 Annual Meeting of Shareholders are incorporated by reference in Part III of this Annual Report on Form 
10-K. 

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE 

(cid:3)

 
 
  
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
TABLE OF CONTENTS 

PART I 

  PAGE

Item 1. 

  Business .....................................................................................................................................................................

Item 1A. 

  Risk Factors ...............................................................................................................................................................

Item 1B. 

  Unresolved Staff Comments ......................................................................................................................................

Item 2. 

  Properties ...................................................................................................................................................................

Item 3. 

  Legal Proceedings ......................................................................................................................................................

Item 4. 

  Mine Safety Disclosures ............................................................................................................................................

PART II

Item 5. 

  Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of 

Equity Securities ........................................................................................................................................................

Item 6. 

  Selected Financial Data .............................................................................................................................................

Item 7. 

  Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations ....................................

Item 7A. 

  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk...................................................................................

Item 8. 

  Financial Statements and Supplementary Data..........................................................................................................

4

20

30

30

30

30

31

32

37

60

63

Item 9. 

  Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure ....................................

132

Item 9A. 

  Controls and Procedures ............................................................................................................................................

132

Item 9B. 

  Other Information ......................................................................................................................................................

132

PART III

Item 10. 

  Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance.........................................................................................

133

Item 11. 

  Executive Compensation ...........................................................................................................................................

133

Item 12. 

  Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder   

Matters .......................................................................................................................................................................

133

Item 13. 

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

133

Item 14. 

  Principal Accounting Fees and Services....................................................................................................................

133

PART IV

Item 15. 

  Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules .............................................................................................................

134

Item 16. 

  Form 10-K Summary .................................................................................................................................................

135

  Signatures ..................................................................................................................................................................

136

(cid:3)

 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
FORWARD LOOKING INFORMATION 

PART I 

Statements  and  financial  analysis  contained  in  this  Annual  Report  on  Form  10-K  that  are  based  on  other  than  historical  data  are 
forward-looking  within  the  meaning  of  the  Private  Securities  Litigation  Reform  Act  of  1995.  Forward-looking  statements  provide 
current expectations or forecasts of future events and include, among others: 

(cid:120)(cid:3)

(cid:120)(cid:3)

statements  with  respect  to  the  beliefs,  plans,  objectives,  goals,  guidelines,  expectations,  anticipations,  and  future  financial 
condition,  results  of  operations  and  performance  of  Financial  Institutions,  Inc.  (the  “Parent”  or  “FII”)  and  its  subsidiaries 
(collectively, the “Company,” “we,” “our” or “us”); and 
statements preceded by, followed by or that include the words “may,” “could,” “should,” “would,” “believe,” “anticipate,” 
“estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” “projects” or similar expressions. 

These  forward-looking  statements  are  not  guarantees  of  future  performance,  nor  should  they  be  relied  upon  as  representing 
management’s views as of any subsequent date. Forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties and actual results 
may differ materially from those presented, either expressed or implied, in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, including, but not limited 
to, those presented in the Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations. Factors that might 
cause such material differences include, but are not limited to: 

If we experience greater credit losses than anticipated, earnings may be adversely impacted; 

(cid:120)(cid:3)
(cid:120)(cid:3) Our  tax  strategies  and  the  value  of  our  deferred  tax  assets  and  liabilities  could  adversely  affect  our  operating  results  and 

regulatory capital ratios; 

(cid:120)(cid:3) Geographic concentration may unfavorably impact our operations; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) We depend on the accuracy and completeness of information about or from customers and counterparties; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) Our insurance brokerage subsidiary is subject to risk related to the insurance industry; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) Our  investment  advisory  and  wealth  management  operations  are  subject  to  risks  related  to  the  regulation  of  the  financial 

services industry and market volatility; 

(cid:120)(cid:3) We may be unable to successfully implement our growth strategies, including the integration and successful management of 

newly-acquired businesses; 

(cid:120)(cid:3) We are subject to environmental liability risk associated with our lending activities; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) Our commercial business and mortgage loans increase our exposure to credit risks; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) Our indirect and consumer lending involves risk elements in addition to normal credit risk; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) Lack of seasoning in portions of our loan portfolio could increase risk of credit defaults in the future; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) We accept deposits that do not have a fixed term, and which may be withdrawn by the customer at any time for any reason; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) Any future FDIC insurance premium increases may adversely affect our earnings; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) We are highly regulated, and any adverse regulatory action may result in additional costs, loss of business opportunities, and 

reputational damage; 

(cid:120)(cid:3) We make certain assumptions and estimates in preparing our financial statements that may prove to be incorrect, which could 
significantly  impact  our  results  of  operations,  cash  flows  and  financial  condition,  and  we  are  subject  to  new  or  changing 
accounting rules and interpretations, and the failure by us to correctly interpret or apply these evolving rules and interpretations 
could have a material adverse effect; 

(cid:120)(cid:3) Legal and regulatory proceedings and related matters could adversely affect us and the banking industry in general; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) A breach in security of our or third party information systems, including the occurrence of a cyber incident or a deficiency in 
cybersecurity, or a failure by us to comply with enhanced New York State cybersecurity regulations, may subject us to liability, 
result in a loss of customer business or damage our brand image; 

(cid:120)(cid:3) We face competition in staying current with technological changes and banking alternatives to compete and meet customer 

demands; 

(cid:120)(cid:3) We rely on other companies to provide key components of our business infrastructure; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) We use financial models for business planning purposes that may not adequately predict future results; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) We may not be able to attract and retain skilled people; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) Acquisitions may disrupt our business and dilute shareholder value; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) We are subject to interest rate risk, and a rising rate environment may reduce our income and result in higher defaults on our 

loans; 

(cid:120)(cid:3) Our business may be adversely affected by conditions in the financial markets and economic conditions generally; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) The policies of the Federal Reserve have a significant impact on our earnings; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) The soundness of other financial institutions could adversely affect us; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) The value of our goodwill and other intangible assets may decline in the future; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) We operate in a highly competitive industry and market area; 

-(cid:3)3 - 

 
(cid:120)(cid:3) Severe weather, natural disasters, acts of war or terrorism, and other external events could significantly impact our business; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) Liquidity is essential to our businesses; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) We may need to raise additional capital in the future and such capital may not be available on acceptable terms or at all; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) We rely on dividends from our subsidiaries for most of our revenue; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) We may not pay or may reduce the dividends on our common stock; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) We may issue debt and equity securities or securities convertible into equity securities, any of which may be senior to our 
common stock as to distributions and in liquidation, which could dilute our current shareholders or negatively affect the value 
of our common stock; 

(cid:120)(cid:3) Our certificate of incorporation, our bylaws, and certain banking laws may have an anti-takeover effect; and 
(cid:120)(cid:3) The market price of our common stock may fluctuate significantly in response to a number of factors. 

We caution readers not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made, and advise 
readers that various factors, including those described above, could affect our financial performance and could cause our actual results or 
circumstances for future periods to differ materially from those anticipated or projected. See also Item 1A, Risk Factors, of this Annual 
Report on Form 10-K for further information. Except as required by law, we do not undertake, and specifically disclaim any obligation 
to publicly release any revisions to any forward-looking statements to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events or 
circumstances after the date of such statements. 

ITEM 1.    BUSINESS 

GENERAL 

The Parent is a financial holding company organized in 1931 under the laws of New York State (“New York” or “NYS”). The principal 
office of the Parent is located at 220 Liberty Street, Warsaw, New York 14569 and its telephone number is (585) 786-1100. The Parent 
was incorporated on September 15, 1931, but the continuity of the Company’s banking business is traced to the organization of the 
National Bank of Geneva on March 28, 1817. Except as the context otherwise requires, the Parent and its direct and indirect subsidiaries 
are collectively referred to in this report as the “Company.” Five Star Bank is referred to as “Five Star Bank,” “FSB” or “the Bank,” SDN 
Insurance Agency, LLC (formerly Scott Danahy Naylon, LLC) is referred to as “SDN,” Courier Capital, LLC is referred to as “Courier 
Capital”  and HNP  Capital,  LLC  is  referred  to  as  “HNP Capital.”  The consolidated financial  statements  include  the  accounts  of  the 
Parent, the Bank, SDN, Courier Capital and HNP Capital. The Parent’s common stock is traded on the Nasdaq Global Select Market 
under the ticker symbol “FISI.” 

At December 31, 2018, the Company had consolidated total assets of $4.31 billion, deposits of $3.37 billion and shareholders’ equity of 
$396.3 million. 

The Parent’s primary business is the operation of its subsidiaries. It does not engage in any other substantial business activities. The 
Parent’s  four  direct  wholly-owned  subsidiaries  are:  (1) the  Bank,  which  provides  a  full  range  of  banking  services  to  consumer, 
commercial  and  municipal  customers  in  Western  and  Central  New  York;  (2) SDN,  which  sells  various  premium-based  insurance 
policies  on  a  commission  basis  to  commercial  and  consumer  customers;  and  (3) Courier  Capital  and  (4)  HNP  Capital,  which  both 
provide  customized  investment  advice,  wealth  management,  investment  consulting  and  retirement  plan  services  to  individuals, 
businesses, institutions, foundations and retirement plans. At December 31, 2018, the Bank represented 99.1%, SDN represented 0.4% 
and Courier Capital and HNP Capital combined represented 0.5% of the consolidated assets of the Company. 

Five Star Bank 

The Bank is a New York-chartered bank that has its headquarters at 55 North Main Street, Warsaw, NY, and a total of 53 full-service 
banking offices in the New York State counties of Allegany, Cattaraugus, Cayuga, Chautauqua, Chemung, Erie, Genesee, Livingston, 
Monroe, Ontario, Orleans, Seneca, Steuben, Wyoming and Yates counties. 

At December 31, 2018, the Bank had total assets of $4.27 billion, investment securities of $892.3 million, net loans of $3.05 billion, 
deposits of $3.37 billion and shareholders’ equity of $399.3 million, compared to total assets of $4.07 billion, investment securities of 
$1.04 billion, net loans of $2.70 billion, deposits of $3.22 billion and shareholders’ equity of $382.5 million at December 31, 2017. The 
Bank offers deposit products, which include checking and NOW accounts, savings accounts, and certificates of deposit, as its principal 
source of funding. The Bank’s deposits are insured up to the maximum permitted by the Bank Insurance Fund (the “Insurance Fund”) of 
the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”). The Bank offers a variety of loan products to its customers, including commercial 
and consumer loans. 

-(cid:3)4 - 

 
 
SDN Insurance Agency, LLC (formerly Scott Danahy Naylon, LLC) 

Acquired in August 2014, SDN is a full-service insurance agency founded in 1923 and headquartered in Amherst, NY. SDN offers 
personal, commercial and financial services products. For the year ended December 31, 2018, SDN had total revenue of $4.8 million. 

Most lines of personal insurance are provided, including automobile, homeowners, boat, recreational vehicle, landlord, and umbrella 
coverage. Commercial  insurance  products  are  also  provided,  consisting  of  property,  liability,  automobile,  inland  marine,  workers 
compensation,  bonds,  crop  and  umbrella  insurance. SDN  also  provides  the  following  financial  services  products: life  and  disability 
insurance, Medicare supplements, long-term care, annuities, mutual funds, retirement programs and New York State disability. 

Courier Capital, LLC 

Acquired in January 2016, Courier Capital is an SEC-registered investment advisory and wealth management firm founded in 1967 and 
based in Western New York, with offices in Buffalo, Amherst and Jamestown. With $1.63 billion in assets under management as of 
December 31, 2018, Courier Capital offers customized investment advice, wealth management, investment consulting and retirement 
plan services to individuals, businesses and institutions. For the year ended December 31, 2018, Courier Capital had total revenue of 
$5.0 million. 

HNP Capital, LLC 

Acquired in June 2018, HNP Capital is an SEC-registered investment advisory and wealth management firm founded in 2009 and based 
in Rochester, New York. With $349 million in assets under management as of December 31, 2018, HNP Capital offers customized 
investment advice, wealth management, investment consulting and retirement plan services to individuals, businesses and institutions. 
For the period from date of acquisition through December 31, 2018, HNP Capital had total revenue of $1.0 million. 

Other Subsidiaries 

Five  Star  REIT,  Inc.  Five  Star  REIT,  Inc.  (“Five  Star  REIT”),  a  wholly-owned  subsidiary  of  the  Bank,  operates  as  a  real  estate 
investment trust that holds residential mortgages and commercial real estate loans. Five Star REIT provides additional flexibility and 
planning opportunities for the business of the Bank. 

Business Strategy 

Our  business  strategy  has  been  to  maintain  a  community  bank  philosophy,  which  consists  of  focusing  on  and  understanding  the 
individualized  banking  and  other  financial  services  needs  of  individuals,  municipalities  and  businesses  of  the  local  communities 
surrounding our primary service area. We believe this focus allows us to be more responsive to our customers’ needs and provide a high 
level of personal service that differentiates us from larger competitors, resulting in long-standing and broad-based banking relationships. 
Our core customers are primarily small- to medium-sized businesses, individuals and community organizations who prefer to build 
banking, insurance and wealth management relationships with a community bank that offers high quality, competitively-priced products 
and  services  with  personalized  service.  Because  of  our  identity  and  origin  as  a  locally  operated  bank,  we  believe  that  our  level  of 
personal service provides a competitive advantage over larger banks, which tend to consolidate decision-making authority outside local 
communities. 

A key aspect of our current business strategy is to foster a community-oriented culture where our customers and employees establish 
long-standing and mutually beneficial relationships. We believe that we are well-positioned to be a strong competitor within our market 
area because of our focus on community banking needs and customer service, our comprehensive suite of deposit, loan, insurance and 
wealth management products typically found at larger banks, our highly experienced management team and our strategically located 
banking  centers.  We  have  evolved  to  meet  changing  customer  needs  by  opening  what  we  refer  to  as  financial  solution  center 
branches. These  financial  solution  centers  have  a  smaller  footprint  than  our  traditional  branches,  focus  on  technology  to  provide 
solutions that fit our customer preferences for transacting business with us, and these branches are staffed by certified personal bankers 
who are trained to meet a broad array of customer needs. In recent years, we have opened four financial solution centers in the Rochester 
and Buffalo markets. We believe that the foregoing factors all help to grow our core deposits, which supports a central element of our 
business strategy - the growth of a diversified and high-quality loan portfolio. 

-(cid:3)5 - 

 
 
 
Acquisition Strategy 

We will continue to explore market expansion opportunities in or near our current market areas as opportunities arise. Our primary focus 
will  be  on  increasing  market  share  within  existing  markets,  while  taking  advantage  of  potential  growth  opportunities  within  our 
insurance and wealth management lines of business by acquiring new businesses that can be added to existing operations. We believe 
our capital position remains strong enough to support an active merger and acquisition strategy, and expansion of our core financial 
service businesses of banking, insurance and wealth management. Consequently, we continue to explore acquisition opportunities in 
these activities. In evaluating acquisition opportunities, we will balance the potential for earnings accretion with maintaining adequate 
capital levels, which could result in our common stock being the predominant form of consideration and/or the need for us to raise 
capital. 

Conversations  with  potential  strategic  partners  occur  on  a  regular  basis.  The  evaluation  of  any  potential  opportunity  will  favor  a 
transaction that complements our core competencies and strategic intent, with a lesser emphasis being placed on geographic location or 
size. Additionally, we remain committed to maintaining a diversified revenue stream. Our senior management team has experience in 
acquisitions and post-acquisition integration of operations and is prepared to act quickly should a potential opportunity arise but will 
remain disciplined with its approach. We believe this experience positions us to successfully acquire and integrate additional financial 
services and banking businesses. 

MARKET AREAS AND COMPETITION 

We provide a wide range of banking and financial services to individuals, municipalities and businesses through a network of over 50 
offices  and  an  extensive  ATM  network  throughout  Western  and  Central  New  York.  The  region  includes  the  counties  of  Allegany, 
Cattaraugus, Cayuga, Chautauqua, Chemung, Erie, Genesee, Livingston, Monroe, Ontario, Orleans, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Wayne, 
Wyoming and Yates counties. Our banking activities, though concentrated in the communities where we maintain branches, also extend 
into neighboring counties. In addition, our consumer indirect lending presence includes the Capital District of New York and Northern 
and Central Pennsylvania. 

Our market area is economically diversified in that we serve both rural markets and the larger markets in and around Rochester and 
Buffalo.  Rochester  and  Buffalo  are  the  two  largest  metropolitan  areas  in  New  York  outside  of  New  York  City,  with  a  combined 
population of over two million people. We anticipate continuing to increase our presence in and around these metropolitan statistical 
areas in the coming years. 

We face significant competition in both making loans and attracting deposits, as Western and Central New York have a high density of 
financial institutions. Our competition for loans comes principally from commercial banks, savings banks, savings and loan associations, 
mortgage banking companies, credit unions, insurance companies and other financial services companies. Our most direct competition 
for deposits has historically come from commercial banks, savings banks and credit unions. We face additional competition for deposits 
from  non-depository  competitors  such  as  the  mutual  fund  industry,  securities  and  brokerage  firms  and  insurance  companies.  We 
generally compete with other financial service providers on factors such as level of customer service, responsiveness to customer needs, 
availability  and  pricing  of  products,  and  geographic  location.  Our  industry  frequently  experiences  merger  activity,  which  affects 
competition by eliminating some institutions while potentially strengthening the franchises of others. 

-(cid:3)6 - 

 
The following table presents the Bank’s market share percentage for total deposits as of June 30, 2018, in each county where we have 
operations. The table also indicates the ranking by deposit size in each market. All information in the table was obtained from S&P 
Global Market Intelligence, which compiles deposit data published by the FDIC as of June 30, 2018 and updates the information for any 
bank mergers and acquisitions completed subsequent to the reporting date. 

County 
Allegany 
Cattaraugus 
Cayuga 
Chautauqua 
Chemung 
Erie 
Genesee 
Livingston 
Monroe 
Ontario 
Orleans 
Seneca 
Steuben 
Wyoming 
Yates 

Market 
Share
8.5%
28.2%
4.0%
1.9%
15.9%
0.4%
22.6%
36.2%
1.9%
14.0%
30.0%
28.7%
32.0%
53.1%
39.4%

Market 
Rank(cid:3)
3 
2 
9 
8 
3 
10 
2 
1 
8 
2 
2 
1 
1 
1 
1 

Number of 
Branches (1)
1
5
1
1
3
4
3
5
8
5
2
2
7
4
2

(1)  Number of branches current as of December 31, 2018. 

INVESTMENT ACTIVITIES 

Our  investment  policy  is  contained  within our  overall  Asset-Liability  Management  and  Investment  Policy.  This policy  dictates  that 
investment decisions will be made based on the safety of the investment, liquidity requirements, potential returns, cash flow targets, need 
for collateral and desired risk parameters. In pursuing these objectives, we consider the ability of an investment to provide earnings 
consistent with factors related to quality, maturity, marketability, pledgeable nature and risk diversification. Our Treasurer, guided by 
our Asset-Liability Committee (“ALCO”), is responsible for investment portfolio decisions within the established policies. 

Our investment securities strategy is focused on providing liquidity to meet loan demand and redeeming liabilities, meeting pledging 
requirements, managing credit risks, managing overall interest rate risks and maximizing portfolio yield. Our current policy generally 
limits security purchases to the following: 

(cid:120)(cid:3) U.S. treasury securities; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) U.S. government agency securities, which are securities issued by official Federal government bodies (e.g., the Government 
National Mortgage Association (“GNMA”) and the Small Business Administration (“SBA”)), and U.S. government-sponsored 
enterprise  securities,  which  are  securities  issued  by  independent  organizations  that  are  in  part  sponsored  by  the  federal 
government (e.g., the Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”) system, the Federal National Mortgage Association (“FNMA”), the 
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (“FHLMC”) and the Federal Farm Credit Bureau); 

(cid:120)(cid:3) Mortgage-backed  securities  (“MBS”),  which  include  mortgage-backed  pass-through  securities,  collateralized  mortgage 

(cid:120)(cid:3)

obligations and multi-family MBS issued by GNMA, FNMA and FHLMC; 
Investment  grade  municipal  securities,  including  revenue,  tax  and  bond  anticipation  notes,  statutory  installment  notes  and 
general obligation bonds; 

(cid:120)(cid:3) Certain creditworthy unrated securities issued by municipalities; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) Certificates of deposit; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) Equity securities at the holding company level; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) Derivative instruments; and 
(cid:120)(cid:3) Limited partnership investments. 

-(cid:3)7 - 

 
 
 
 
   
 
 
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
 
 
LENDING ACTIVITIES 
General 

We offer a broad range of loans including commercial business and revolving lines of credit, commercial mortgages, equipment loans, 
residential mortgage loans and home equity loans and lines of credit, home improvement loans, automobile loans and personal loans. 
Newly originated and refinanced fixed rate residential mortgage loans are either retained in our portfolio or sold to the secondary market 
with servicing rights retained. 
We continually evaluate and update our lending policy. The key elements of our lending philosophy include the following: 

(cid:120)(cid:3) To ensure consistent underwriting, employees must share a common view of the risks inherent in lending activities as well as 

the standards to be applied in underwriting and managing credit risk; 

(cid:120)(cid:3) Pricing of credit products should be risk-based; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) The loan portfolio must be diversified to limit the potential impact of negative events; and 
(cid:120)(cid:3) Careful, timely exposure monitoring through dynamic use of our risk rating system is required to provide early warning and 

assure proactive management of potential problems. 

Commercial Business and Commercial Mortgage Lending 

We primarily originate commercial business loans in our market areas and underwrite them based on the borrower’s ability to service the 
loan from operating income. We offer a broad range of commercial lending products, including term loans and lines of credit. Short and 
medium-term commercial loans, primarily collateralized, are made available to businesses for working capital (including inventory and 
receivables), business expansion (including acquisition of real estate, expansion and improvements) and the purchase of equipment. We 
offer commercial business loans to customers in the agricultural industry for short-term crop production, farm equipment and livestock 
financing. As a general practice, where possible, a first position collateral lien is placed on any available real estate, equipment or other 
assets owned by the borrower and a personal guarantee of the owner is obtained. As of December 31, 2018, $162.3 million, or 29%, of 
our aggregate commercial business loan portfolio were at fixed rates, while $395.6 million, or 71%, were at variable rates. 

We also offer commercial mortgage loans to finance the purchase of real property, which generally consists of real estate with completed 
structures. Commercial mortgage loans are secured by first liens on the real estate and are typically amortized over a 10 to 20-year 
period.  The  underwriting  analysis  includes  credit  verification,  appraisals  and  a  review  of  the  borrower’s  financial  condition  and 
repayment capacity. As of December 31, 2018, $584.0 million, or 61%, of the loans in our aggregate commercial mortgage portfolio 
were at fixed rates, while $374.1 million, or 39%, were at variable rates. 
We utilize government loan guarantee programs where available and appropriate. 

Government Guarantee Programs 

We  participate  in  government  loan  guarantee  programs  offered  by  the  SBA,  U.S.  Department  of  Agriculture,  Rural  Economic  and 
Community Development and Farm Service Agency, among others. As of December 31, 2018, we had loans with an aggregate principal 
balance of $44.7 million that were covered by guarantees under these programs. The guarantees typically only cover a certain percentage 
of these loans. By participating in these programs, we are able to broaden our base of borrowers while reducing credit risk. 

Residential Real Estate Lending 

We originate fixed and variable rate one-to-four family residential mortgages collateralized by owner-occupied properties located in our 
market areas. We offer a variety of real estate loan products, including home improvement loans, closed-end home equity loans, and 
home equity lines of credit, which are generally amortized over periods of up to 30 years. Loans collateralized by one-to-four family 
residential real estate generally have been originated in amounts of no more than 80% of appraised value or have mortgage insurance. 
Mortgage title insurance and hazard insurance are normally required. We sell certain one-to-four family residential mortgages to the 
secondary mortgage market and typically retain the right to service the mortgages. We typically follow the underwriting and appraisal 
guidelines of the secondary market, including the FHLMC and the Federal Housing Administration, and service the loans in a manner 
that  satisfies  the  secondary  market  agreements.  As  of  December 31,  2018,  our  residential  mortgage  servicing  portfolio  totaled 
$171.5 million, the majority of which has been sold to the FHLMC. As of December 31, 2018, our residential real estate loan portfolio 
totaled $524.2 million, or 17% of our total loan portfolio. As of December 31, 2018, our residential real estate lines portfolio totaled 
$109.7 million, or 4% of our total loan portfolio. As of December 31, 2018, $452.4 million, or 86%, of the loans in our residential real 
estate loan portfolio were at fixed rates, while $71.8 million, or 14%, were at variable rates. The residential real estate lines portfolio 
primarily consists of variable rate lines. Approximately 89% of the loans and lines in our residential real estate portfolios were in first 
lien  positions  at  December 31,  2018.  We  do  not  engage  in  sub-prime  or  other  high-risk  residential  mortgage  lending  as  a 
line-of-business. 

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Consumer Lending 

We offer a variety of loan products to our consumer customers, including automobile loans, secured installment loans and other types of 
secured  and  unsecured  personal  loans.  At  December 31,  2018,  outstanding  consumer  loan  balances  were  concentrated  in  indirect 
automobile loans. 

We originate indirect consumer loans for a mix of new and used vehicles through franchised new car dealers. The consumer indirect loan 
portfolio is primarily comprised of loans with terms that typically range from 36 to 84 months. We have developed relationships with 
franchised new car dealers in Western, Central and the Capital District of New York, and Northern and Central Pennsylvania. As of 
December 31, 2018, our consumer indirect portfolio totaled $919.9 million, or 30% of our total loan portfolio. The consumer indirect 
loan portfolio primarily consists of fixed rate loans with relatively short durations. 

We also originate, independently of the indirect loans described above, consumer automobile loans, recreational vehicle loans, boat 
loans, personal loans (collateralized and uncollateralized) and deposit account collateralized loans. The terms of these loans typically 
range from 12 to 60 months and vary based upon the nature of the collateral and the size of loan. A portion of the consumer lending 
program is underwritten on a secured basis using the customer’s financed automobile, mobile home, boat or recreational vehicle as 
collateral. The other loans in our consumer portfolio totaled $16.8 million as of December 31, 2018, all of which were fixed rate loans. 

Credit Administration 

Our loan policy establishes standardized underwriting guidelines, as well as the loan approval process and the committee structures 
necessary to facilitate and ensure the highest possible loan quality decision-making in a timely and businesslike manner. The policy 
establishes requirements for extending credit based on the size, risk rating and type of credit involved. The policy also sets limits on 
individual lending authority and various forms of joint lending authority, while designating which loans are required to be approved at 
the committee level. 
Our credit objectives are to: 

(cid:120)(cid:3) Compete effectively and service the legitimate credit needs of our target market; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) Enhance our reputation for superior quality and timely delivery of products and services; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) Provide pricing that reflects the entire relationship and is commensurate with the risk profiles of our borrowers; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) Retain, develop and acquire profitable, multi-product, value added relationships with high quality borrowers; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) Focus on government guaranteed lending to meet the needs of the small businesses in our communities; and 
(cid:120)(cid:3) Comply with all relevant laws and regulations. 

Our policy includes loan reviews, under the supervision of our Audit and Risk Oversight committees of the Board of Directors and 
directed  by  our  Chief  Risk  Officer,  in  order  to  render  an  independent  and  objective  evaluation  of  our  asset  quality  and  credit 
administration process. 
We assign risk ratings to loans in the commercial business and commercial mortgage portfolios. We use those risk ratings to: 

Identify deteriorating credits; 

(cid:120)(cid:3) Profile the risk and exposure in the loan portfolio and identify developing trends and relative levels of risk; 
(cid:120)(cid:3)
(cid:120)(cid:3) Reflect the probability that a given customer may default on its obligations; and 
(cid:120)(cid:3) Assist with risk-based pricing. 

Through the loan approval process, loan administration and loan review program, management seeks to continuously monitor our credit 
risk profile and assess the overall quality of the loan portfolio and adequacy of the allowance for loan losses. 

We  have  several  procedures  in  place  to  assist  in  maintaining  the  overall  quality  of  our  loan  portfolio.  Delinquent  loan  reports  are 
monitored by credit administration to identify adverse levels and trends. Loans, including impaired loans, are generally classified as 
non-accruing if they are past due as to maturity or payment of principal or interest for a period of more than 90 days, unless such loans 
are well-collateralized and in the process of collection. Loans that are on a current payment status or past due less than 90 days may also 
be classified as non-accruing if repayment in full of principal and/or interest is uncertain. 

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Allowance for Loan Losses 

The allowance for loan losses is established through charges to earnings in the form of a provision for loan losses. The allowance reflects 
management’s estimate of the amount of probable loan losses in the portfolio, based on factors including, but not limited to: 

(cid:120)(cid:3) Specific allocations for individually analyzed credits; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) Risk assessment process; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) Historical net charge-off experience; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) Evaluation of loss emergence and look-back periods; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) Evaluation of the loan portfolio with loan reviews; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) Levels and trends in delinquent and non-accruing loans; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) Trends in volume and terms of loans; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) Effects of changes in lending policy; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) Experience, ability and depth of management; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) National and local economic trends and conditions; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) Concentrations of credit; 
(cid:120)(cid:3)
Interest rate environment; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) Regulatory environment; 
(cid:120)(cid:3)
(cid:120)(cid:3) Collateral values. 

Information (availability of timely financial information); and 

Our methodology for estimating the allowance for loan losses includes the following: 

1. 

Impaired commercial business and commercial mortgage loans are typically reviewed individually and assigned a specific loss 
allowance, if considered necessary, in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”). 

2.  The  remaining  portfolios  of  commercial  business  and  commercial  mortgage  loans  are  segmented  by  risk  rating  into  the 
following loan classification categories: uncriticized or pass, special mention, substandard and doubtful. Uncriticized loans, 
special mention loans, substandard loans and all doubtful loans not assigned a specific loss allowance are assigned allowance 
allocations based on historical net loan charge-off experience for each of the respective loan categories, supplemented with loss 
emergence periods and qualitative factors, if considered necessary. These qualitative factors include the levels and trends in 
delinquent  and  non-accruing  loans,  trends  in  volume  and  terms  of  loans,  effects  of  changes  in  lending  policy,  experience, 
ability, and depth of management, national and local economic trends and conditions, concentrations of credit, interest rate 
environment, regulatory environment, information (availability of timely financial information), and collateral values, among 
others. 

3.  The retail loan portfolio is segmented into the following types of loans: residential real estate loans, residential real estate lines, 
consumer  indirect  and  other  consumer.  Allowance  allocations  for  the  retail  loan  portfolio  are  based  on  the  average  loss 
experience for the previous eight quarters, supplemented with loss emergence periods and qualitative factors similar to the 
elements described above. 

Management  presents  a  quarterly  review  of the  adequacy of  the  allowance  for  loan  losses  to  the Audit  Committee  of our  Board of 
Directors  based  on  the  methodology  described  above.  See  also  the  section  titled  “Allowance  for  Loan  Losses”  in  Part  II,  Item  7, 
“Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. 

SOURCES OF FUNDS 
Our primary sources of funds are deposits and borrowed funds. 

Deposits 

We maintain a full range of deposit products and accounts to meet the needs of the residents and businesses in our primary service area. 
Products include an array of checking and savings account programs for individuals and businesses, including money market accounts, 
certificates of deposit, sweep investment capabilities as well as Individual Retirement Accounts and other qualified plan accounts. We 
rely primarily on competitive pricing of our deposit products, customer service and long-standing relationships with customers to attract 
and retain these deposits and seek to make our services convenient to the community by offering a choice of several delivery systems and 
channels,  including  telephone,  mail,  online,  automated  teller  machines  (ATMs),  debit  cards,  point-of-sale  transactions,  automated 
clearing house transactions (ACH), remote deposit, and mobile banking via telephone or wireless devices. We also take advantage of the 
use of technology by offering business customers banking access via the Internet and various advanced cash management systems. 

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We also participate in Certificate of Deposit Account Registry Service (“CDARS”) and Insured Cash Sweep (“ICS”) programs, which 
enable depositors to receive FDIC insurance coverage for deposits otherwise exceeding the maximum insurable amount. Through these 
programs, deposits in excess of the maximum insurable amount are placed with multiple participating financial institutions. Prior to the 
Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief and Consumer Protection Act (“Economic Growth Act”) enacted on May 14, 2018, all CDARS 
and ICS deposits were considered brokered deposits for regulatory reporting purposes.    With the enactment of Economic Growth Act, 
reciprocal CDARS and ICS deposits, subject to certain restrictions, are no longer required to be reported as brokered deposits. CDARS 
deposits and ICS deposits totaled $224.9 million and $149.6 million, respectively, at December 31, 2018. 

Borrowings 

We  have  access  to  a  variety  of  borrowing  sources  and  use  both  short-term  and  long-term  borrowings  to  support  our  asset  base. 
Borrowings from time-to-time include federal funds purchased, securities sold under agreements to repurchase, FHLB advances and 
borrowings from the discount window of the FRB, as defined below. 

Other  sources  of  funds  include  scheduled  amortization  and  prepayments  of  principal  from  loans  and  mortgage-backed  securities, 
maturities and calls of investment securities and funds provided by operations. 

OTHER INFORMATION 

We  also  make  available,  free  of  charge  through  our  website,  all  reports  filed  with  or  furnished  to  the  Securities  and  Exchange 
Commission (“SEC”), including our Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K, 
as well as any amendments to those reports, as soon as reasonably practicable after those documents are filed with or furnished to the 
SEC.  These  filings  may  be  viewed  by  accessing  the  SEC  Filings  subsection  of  the  Financials  section  of  our  website 
(www.fiiwarsaw.com). Information available on our website is not a part of, and is not incorporated into, this Annual Report on Form 
10-K. 

All of the reports we file with the SEC, including this Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current 
Reports on Form 8-K, as well as any amendments thereto may be accessed at www.sec.gov. 

SUPERVISION AND REGULATION 

We are subject to extensive regulation under federal and state laws. The regulatory framework is intended primarily for the protection of 
depositors, federal deposit insurance funds and the banking system as a whole and not for the protection of shareholders and creditors. 

We are also subject to the disclosure and regulatory requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the Securities Exchange 
Act of 1934, as amended, as administered by the SEC. Our common stock is listed on the Nasdaq Global Select Market (“Nasdaq”) 
under the trading symbol “FISI” and is subject to Nasdaq rules for listed companies. 

Significant elements of the laws and regulations applicable to the Company are described below. The description is qualified in its 
entirety  by  reference  to  the  full  text  of  the  statutes,  regulations  and  policies  that  are  described.  Also,  such  statutes,  regulations  and 
policies are continually under review by Congress, state legislatures, and federal and state regulatory agencies. A change in statutes, 
regulations or regulatory policies applicable to the Company could have a material effect on the business, financial condition and results 
of operations of the Company. 

Holding Company Regulation. We are subject to comprehensive regulation by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, 
frequently referred to as the Federal Reserve Board (“FRB” or “Federal Reserve”), under the Bank Holding Company Act (the “BHC 
Act”),  as  amended  by,  among  other  laws,  the  Gramm-Leach-Bliley  Act  of  1999  (the  “Gramm-Leach-Bliley  Act”),  and  by  the 
Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (the “Dodd-Frank Act”), enacted in 2010. We are registered with the 
Federal Reserve as a bank holding company (“BHC”). We must file reports with the FRB and such additional information as the FRB 
may require, and our holding company and non-banking affiliates are subject to examination by the FRB. Under FRB policy, a bank 
holding company must serve as a source of strength for its subsidiary banks. Under this policy, the FRB may require, and has required in 
the past, a holding company to contribute additional capital to an undercapitalized subsidiary bank. The BHC Act provides that a bank 
holding company must obtain FRB approval before: 

(cid:120)(cid:3) Acquiring, directly or indirectly, ownership or control of any voting shares of another bank or bank holding company if, after 
such acquisition, it would own or control more than 5% of such shares (unless it already owns or controls the majority of such 
shares); 

(cid:120)(cid:3) Acquiring all or substantially all of the assets of another bank or bank holding company, or 
(cid:120)(cid:3) Merging or consolidating with another bank holding company. 

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The BHC Act generally prohibits a bank holding company from acquiring direct or indirect ownership or control of more than 5% of the 
voting shares of any company which is not a bank or bank holding company, or from engaging directly or indirectly in activities other 
than  those  of  banking,  managing  or  controlling  banks,  or  providing  services  for  its  subsidiaries.  The  principal  exceptions  to  these 
prohibitions involve certain non-bank activities which, by statute or by FRB regulation or order, have been identified as activities closely 
related to the business of banking or managing or controlling banks. The list of activities permitted by the FRB includes, among other 
things:  lending;  operating  a  savings  institution,  mortgage  company,  finance  company,  credit  card  company  or  factoring  company; 
performing  certain  data  processing  operations;  providing  certain  investment  and  financial  advice;  underwriting  and  acting  as  an 
insurance agent for certain types of credit related insurance; leasing property on a full-payout, non-operating basis; selling money orders, 
travelers’ checks and United States Savings Bonds; real estate and personal property appraising; providing tax planning and preparation 
services; and, subject to certain limitations, providing securities brokerage services for customers. These activities may also be affected 
by federal legislation. 

The Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act amended portions of the BHC Act to authorize bank holding companies, such as us, directly or through 
non-bank  subsidiaries  to  engage  in  securities,  insurance  and  other  activities  that  are  financial  in  nature  or  incidental  to  a  financial 
activity. In order to undertake these activities, a bank holding company must become a “financial holding company” by submitting to the 
appropriate Federal Reserve Bank a declaration that the company elects to be a financial holding company and a certification that all of 
the depository institutions controlled by the company are well capitalized and well managed. 

The  Dodd-Frank  Act.  The  Dodd-Frank  Wall  Street  Reform  and  Consumer  Protection  Act  (the  “Dodd-Frank  Act”)  significantly 
changed the regulation of financial institutions and the financial services industry. The Dodd-Frank Act includes provisions affecting 
large and small financial institutions alike, including several provisions that will profoundly affect how community banks, thrifts, and 
small bank and thrift holding companies will be regulated in the future. Among other things, these provisions abolished the Office of 
Thrift  Supervision  and  transferred  its  functions  to  the  other  federal  banking  agencies,  relaxed  rules  regarding  interstate  branching, 
allowed financial institutions to pay interest on business checking accounts, and imposed new capital requirements on bank and thrift 
holding companies. The Dodd-Frank Act also includes several corporate governance provisions that apply to all public companies, not 
just  financial  institutions.  These  include  provisions  mandating  certain  disclosures  regarding  executive  compensation  and  provisions 
addressing proxy access by shareholders. We have elected to be treated as a financial holding company. 

The Dodd-Frank Act contains numerous other provisions affecting financial institutions of all types, including some that may affect our 
business in substantial and unpredictable ways. We have incurred higher operating costs in complying with the Dodd-Frank Act, and we 
expect  that  these  higher  costs  will  continue  for  the  foreseeable  future.  Our  management  continues  to  monitor  the  ongoing 
implementation of the Dodd-Frank Act and as new regulations are issued, will assess their effect on our business, financial condition and 
results of operations. 

On February 3, 2017, President Donald J. Trump issued an executive order directing the Secretary of the Treasury to report, within 120 
days, on whether current governmental rules and policies either promote or inhibit the “Core Principles for Financial Regulation” as 
defined in the executive order (the “Executive Order”). The Treasury Department has since issued multiple reports in response to the 
Executive Order, the first of which, issued on June 12, 2017, analyzed and made recommendations with respect to the U.S. banking 
system (the “Treasury Report”). In particular, the Treasury Report recommended several actions that would ease the requirements of the 
Dodd-Frank Act on community banks such as us, as described in greater detail below. While some of these actions may be implemented 
unilaterally by our regulators, others will require legislation in order to be put into effect. 

On June 8, 2017, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Financial CHOICE Act of 2017 (the “Financial CHOICE Act”), a bill 
that, if enacted into law, would repeal or modify key provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act, including elimination of the Volcker Rule, as 
defined below, and making the director of the CFPB, also defined below, subject to removal by the President. President Trump has 
indicated that he would sign the Financial CHOICE Act, but the U.S. Senate has yet to take up that bill. In May 2018, President Trump 
signed into law the Economic Growth Act, which impacted several of the provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act. The enactment of the 
Economic Growth Act provided certain regulatory relief to community banks, like us, with less than $10 billion in total consolidated 
assets.  This  relief  includes  an  exemption  from  the  Volcker  Rule  and  provides  for  federal  banking  regulators  to  simplify  capital 
requirement rules for community banks. 

We cannot predict how closely a final bill, if any, will resemble the Financial CHOICE Act passed by the House of Representatives in 
2017.  Similarly,  it  is  too  early  for  us  to  predict  whether  any  other  executive  or  congressional  action  will  attempt  to  implement  the 
recommendations of the Treasury Report as they pertain to the Dodd-Frank Act. 
See Item 1A, Risk Factors, for a more extensive discussion of this topic. 

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The Volcker Rule. The Dodd-Frank Act prohibits banks and their affiliates from engaging in proprietary trading and from investing and 
sponsoring  hedge  funds  and  private  equity  funds.  The  statutory  provision  implementing  these  restrictions  is  commonly  called  the 
“Volcker Rule.” To implement the Volcker Rule, federal regulators issued final rules in December 2013 that were to become effective 
April 2014. The Federal Reserve subsequently issued an order extending the period that institutions have to conform their activities to 
the requirements of the Volcker Rule to July 21, 2015, and extended the compliance date for banks to conform their investments in 
certain “legacy covered funds” until July 21, 2016. These final rules exempt  the Bank, as a bank with less than $10 billion in  total 
consolidated assets that does not engage in any covered activities other than trading in certain government, agency, state or municipal 
obligations, from any significant compliance obligations under the Volcker Rule; therefore, the Volcker Rule will not have a material 
effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Furthermore, the Economic Growth Act, signed into law in 2018, 
exempted this category of community banks from complying with the Volcker Rule. We cannot predict whether we may become subject 
to the Volcker Rule following additional legislative or regulatory action concerning community banks. 
Depository Institution Regulation.      The Bank is subject to regulation by the FDIC. This regulatory structure includes: 

(cid:120)(cid:3) Real estate lending standards, which provide guidelines concerning loan-to-value ratios for various types of real estate loans; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) Risk-based  capital  rules,  including  accounting  for  interest  rate  risk,  concentration  of  credit  risk  and  the  risks  posed  by 

non-traditional activities; 

(cid:120)(cid:3) Rules  requiring  depository  institutions  to  develop  and  implement  internal  procedures  to  evaluate  and  control  credit  and 

settlement exposure to their correspondent banks; 

(cid:120)(cid:3) Rules restricting types and amounts of equity investments; and 
(cid:120)(cid:3) Rules  addressing  various  safety  and  soundness  issues,  including  operations  and  managerial  standards,  standards  for  asset 

quality, earnings and compensation standards. 

Capital Requirements. The Company and the Bank are each required to comply with applicable capital adequacy standards established 
by the Federal Reserve. The current risk-based capital standards applicable to the Company and the Bank, parts of which are currently in 
the process of being phased in, are based on the final capital framework for strengthening international capital standards, known as Basel 
III, of the Basel Committee. 

Prior to January 1, 2015, the risk-based capital standards applicable to the Company and the Bank (the “General Risk-based Capital 
Rules”) were based on the 1988 Capital Accord, known as Basel I, of the Basel Committee. In July 2013, the federal bank regulators 
approved the final Basel III Rules implementing the Basel III framework as well as certain provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act. The Basel 
III  Rules  substantially  revised  the  risk-based  capital  requirements  applicable  to  BHCs  and  their  depository  institution  subsidiaries, 
including the Company and the Bank, as compared to the General Risk-based Capital Rules. The Basel III Rules became effective for the 
Company and the Bank on January 1, 2015 (subject to a phase-in period for certain provisions). 

The Basel III Rules, among other things, (i) introduce a new capital measure called CET1, which consists primarily of retained earnings 
and common stock, (ii) specify that Tier 1 capital consists of CET1 and “Additional Tier 1 capital” instruments, such as preferred stock 
and  certain  convertible  securities,  meeting  certain  revised  requirements,  (iii) define  CET1  narrowly  by  requiring  that  most 
deductions/adjustments to regulatory capital measures be made to CET1 and not to the other components of capital, and (iv) expand the 
scope of the deductions/adjustments to capital as compared to existing regulations. 
Under the Basel III Rules, the minimum capital ratios effective as of January 1, 2015 are: 

(cid:120)(cid:3)
(cid:120)(cid:3)
(cid:120)(cid:3)

4.5% CET1 to risk-weighted assets; 
6.0% Tier 1 capital (that is, CET1 plus Additional Tier 1 capital) to risk-weighted assets; and 
8.0% Total capital (that is, Tier 1 capital plus Tier 2 capital) to risk-weighted assets. 

The Basel III Rules also introduce a new capital conservation buffer designed to absorb losses during periods of economic stress. The 
capital conservation buffer is an amount in addition to these minimum risk-based capital ratio requirements. The Basel III Rules also 
provide for a countercyclical capital buffer applicable only to certain covered institutions. We do not expect the countercyclical capital 
buffer to be applicable to the Company or the Bank. Banking institutions that do not hold capital above the required minimum levels, 
including the capital conservation buffer, will face constraints on dividends and compensation based on the amount of the shortfall. 

The  Basel  III  Rules  became  fully  phased  in  effective  January 1,  2019  and  will  require  the  Company  and  the  Bank  to  maintain  an 
additional  capital  conservation  buffer  of  2.5%  of  risk-weighted  assets,  effectively  resulting  in  minimum  ratios  of  (i) CET1  to 
risk-weighted assets of at least 7%, (ii) Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets of at least 8.5%, and (iii) Total capital to risk-weighted 
assets of at least 10.5%. 

The Basel III Rules also provide for a number of deductions from and adjustments to CET1. These include, for example, the requirement 
that mortgage-servicing rights (“MSRs”), certain deferred tax assets and significant investments in non-consolidated financial entities be 
deducted from CET1 to the extent that any one such category exceeds 10% of CET1 or all such items, in the aggregate, exceed 15% of 
CET1. 

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Implementation of the deductions and other adjustments to CET1 began on January 1, 2015 and was phased in over a 4-year period 
(beginning at 40% on January 1, 2015 and an additional 20% per year thereafter). The implementation of the capital conservation buffer 
began on January 1, 2016 at the 0.625% level and was phased in over a 4-year period (increasing by that amount on each subsequent 
January 1, until it reached 2.5% on January 1, 2019). 

The Basel III Rules prescribe a new standardized approach for risk weightings that expands the risk-weighting categories from the four 
Basel I-derived categories (0%, 20%, 50% and 100%) to a much larger and more risk-sensitive number of categories, depending on the 
nature of the assets, generally ranging from 0% for U.S. government and agency securities, to 600% for certain equity exposures, and 
resulting in higher risk weights for a variety of asset classes. 

The  Economic  Growth  Act  provided  for  a  potential  exception  from  the  Basel  III  Rules  for  community  banks  that  maintain  a 
“Community  Bank  Leverage  Ratio”  of  at  least  8.0%  to  10.0%,  to  be  determined  based  on  final  rulemaking  from  federal  banking 
regulators. Until further action is taken to implement the provisions of the Economic Growth Act, we cannot predict whether or to what 
extent we will continue to be subject to the Basel III Rules in the future, including as of the final phase-in date of January 1, 2019. 

Leverage Requirements. BHCs and banks are also required to comply with minimum leverage ratio requirements. These requirements 
provide for a minimum ratio of Tier 1 capital to total consolidated quarterly average assets (as defined for regulatory purposes), net of the 
loan loss reserve, goodwill and certain other intangible assets (the “leverage ratio”), of 4.0%. 

Liquidity Regulation. During 2014, the U.S. banking agencies adopted final rules implementing one of the two new standards provided 
for in the Basel III liquidity framework - its liquidity coverage ratio (“LCR”), which is designed to ensure that a bank maintains an 
adequate level of unencumbered high quality liquid assets equal to the bank’s expected net cash outflows for a thirty-day time horizon 
under an acute liquidity stress scenario. The rules as adopted apply in their most comprehensive form only to advanced approaches bank 
holding  companies  and  depository  institution  subsidiaries  of  such  bank  holding  companies  and,  in  a  modified  form,  to  banking 
organizations having $50 billion or more in total consolidated assets. Accordingly, they do not apply to either the Company or the Bank. 
As a result, we do not manage our balance sheet to be compliant with these rules. 

The Basel III framework also included a second standard, referred to as the net stable funding ratio (“NSFR”), which is designed to 
promote more medium-and long-term funding of the assets and activities of banks over a one-year time horizon. Although the Basel 
Committee finalized its formulation of the NSFR in 2014, the U.S. banking agencies have not yet proposed an NSFR for application to 
U.S. banking organizations or addressed the scope of banking organizations to which it will apply. The Basel Committee’s final NSFR 
document states that the NSFR applies to internationally active banks, as did its final LCR document as to that ratio. 

Prompt  Corrective  Action.  The  Federal  Deposit  Insurance  Act,  as  amended  (“FDIA”),  requires,  among  other  things,  the  federal 
banking agencies to take “prompt corrective action” in respect of depository institutions that do not meet minimum capital requirements. 
The  FDIA  establishes  five  capital  categories  for  FDIC-insured  banks:  well  capitalized,  adequately  capitalized,  under-capitalized, 
significantly  under-capitalized  and  critically  under-capitalized.  Under  rules  in  effect  through  December 31,  2014,  a  depository 
institution is deemed to be “well-capitalized” if the institution has a total risk-based capital ratio of 10.0% or greater, a Tier 1 risk-based 
capital ratio of 6.0% or greater, and a leverage ratio of 5.0% or greater, and the institution is not subject to an order, written agreement, 
capital directive or prompt corrective action directive to meet and maintain a specific level for any capital measure. As of January 1, 
2015, the standards for “well-capitalized” status under prompt corrective action regulations changed by, among other things, introducing 
a CET 1 ratio requirement of 6.5% and increasing the Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio requirement from 6.0% to 8.0%. The total risk-based 
capital ratio and Tier 1 leverage ratio requirements remain at 10.0% and 5.0%, respectively. 

The FDIA imposes progressively more restrictive constraints on operations, management and capital distributions, depending on the 
capital category in which an institution is classified. The current capital rule established by the federal bank regulators, discussed above 
under “Capital Requirements,” amend the prompt corrective action requirements in certain respects, including adding a CET1 risk-based 
capital ratio as one of the metrics (with a minimum 6.5% ratio for well-capitalized status) and increasing the Tier 1 risk-based capital 
ratio required for each of the five capital categories, including an increase from 6.0% to 8.0% to be well-capitalized. 

For  further  information  regarding  the  capital  ratios  and  leverage  ratio  of  the  Company  and  the  Bank  see  the  section  titled  “Capital 
Resources” in Part II, Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” included in 
this Annual Report on Form 10-K. The current requirements and the actual levels for the Company and the Bank are detailed in Note 12, 
Regulatory Matters, of the notes to consolidated financial statements, included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. 

Dividends. The FRB policy is that a bank holding company should pay cash dividends only to the extent that its net income for the past 
year is sufficient to cover both the cash dividends and a rate of earnings retention that is consistent with the holding company’s capital 
needs,  asset  quality  and  overall  financial  condition,  and  that  it  is  inappropriate  for  a  bank  holding  company  experiencing  serious 
financial  problems  to  borrow  funds  to  pay  dividends.  Furthermore,  a  bank  that  is  classified  under  the  prompt  corrective  action 
regulations as “undercapitalized” will be prohibited from paying any dividends. 

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The primary source of cash for dividends we pay is the dividends we receive from the Bank. The Bank is subject to various regulatory 
policies and requirements relating to the payment of dividends, including requirements to maintain capital above regulatory minimums. 
Approval of the New York State Department of Financial Services (the “NY DFS”) is required prior to paying a dividend if the dividend 
declared by the Bank exceeds the sum of the Bank’s net profits for that year and its retained net profits for the preceding two calendar 
years. At January 1, 2019, the Bank could declare dividends of $49.7 million from retained net profits of the preceding two years. The 
Bank declared dividends of $20.0 million in 2018 and $12.0 million in 2017. 

Federal Deposit Insurance Assessments.        The Bank is a member of the FDIC and pays an insurance premium to the FDIC based 
upon its assessable assets on a quarterly basis. Deposits are insured up to applicable limits by the FDIC and such insurance is backed by 
the full faith and credit of the United States Government. 

Under the Dodd-Frank Act, a permanent increase in deposit insurance was authorized to $250,000. The coverage limit is per depositor, 
per insured depository institution for each account ownership category. 

The Dodd-Frank Act also set a new minimum Deposit Insurance Fund (“DIF”) reserve ratio at 1.35% of estimated insured deposits. The 
FDIC is required to attain this ratio by September 30, 2020. The Dodd-Frank Act also required the FDIC to define the deposit insurance 
assessment base for an insured depository institution as an amount equal to the institution’s average consolidated total assets during the 
assessment period minus average tangible equity. Premiums for the Bank are now calculated based upon the average balance of total 
assets minus average tangible equity as of the close of business for each day during the calendar quarter.    As of September 30, 2018, the 
FDIC  had  exceeded  the  minimum  reserve  ratio  of  1.35%.    Certain  institutions  will  receive  credits  for  the  portion  of  their  regular 
assessments that contributed to growth in the reserve ratio to 1.35%, which will apply to reduce regular assessments for quarters when 
the reserve ratio is at least 1.38%.    In January 2019, the FDIC notified the Bank that it would be eligible for these credits to offset future 
deposit insurance assessments. 

The FDIC has the flexibility to adopt actual rates that are higher or lower than the total base assessment rates adopted without notice and 
comment, if certain conditions are met. 

DIF-insured institutions pay a Financing Corporation (“FICO”) assessment in order to fund the interest on bonds issued in the 1980s in 
connection with the failures in the thrift industry. For the fourth quarter of 2018, the FICO assessment was equal to 0.14 basis points 
(annualized) computed on assets as required by the Dodd-Frank Act. These assessments will continue until the bonds mature in 2019. 

The FDIC is authorized to conduct examinations of and require reporting by FDIC-insured institutions. It is also authorized to terminate 
a depository bank’s deposit insurance upon a finding by the FDIC that the bank’s financial condition is unsafe or unsound or that the 
institution has engaged in unsafe or unsound practices or has violated any applicable rule, regulation, order or condition enacted or 
imposed by the bank’s regulatory agency. The termination of deposit insurance for the Bank would have a material adverse effect on our 
earnings, operations and financial condition. 

Consumer Laws and Regulations. In addition to the laws and regulations discussed herein, the Bank is also subject to certain consumer 
federal and state laws and regulations that are designed to protect consumers in transactions with banks. While the list set forth herein is 
not exhaustive, these laws and regulations include, among others, the Fair Credit Reporting Act, the Truth in Lending Act, the Truth in 
Savings  Act,  the  Electronic  Funds  Transfer  Act,  the  Expedited  Funds  Availability  Act,  the  Equal  Credit  Opportunity  Act,  the  Fair 
Housing Act, the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act, the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act, the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, the 
Service Members Civil Relief Act and these laws’ respective state-law counterparts, as well as state usury laws and laws regarding unfair 
and deceptive acts and practices. These and other federal and state laws, among other things, require disclosures of the cost of credit and 
terms of deposit accounts, provide substantive consumer rights, prohibit discrimination in credit transactions, regulate the use of credit 
report information, provide financial privacy protections, prohibit unfair, deceptive and abusive practices, restrict the Company’s ability 
to raise interest rates and subject the Company to substantial regulatory oversight. Violations of applicable consumer protection laws can 
result in significant potential liability from litigation brought by customers, including actual damages, restitution and attorneys’ fees. 
Federal and state bank regulators, federal law enforcement agencies, state attorneys general and state and local consumer protection 
agencies  may  also  seek  to  enforce  consumer  protection  requirements  and  obtain  these  and  other  remedies,  including  regulatory 
sanctions, customer rescission rights, fines and civil money penalties. Failure to comply with consumer protection requirements may 
also result in our failure to obtain any required bank regulatory approval for merger or acquisition transactions the Company may wish to 
pursue or our prohibition from engaging in such transactions even if approval is not required. 

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The Dodd-Frank Act centralized responsibility for consumer financial protection by creating the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau 
(“CFPB”), and giving it responsibility for implementing, examining and enforcing compliance with federal consumer protection laws. 
The CFPB focuses on: 

(cid:120)(cid:3) Risks to consumers and compliance with the federal consumer financial laws, when it evaluates the policies and practices of a 

financial institution; 

(cid:120)(cid:3) The markets in which firms operate and risks to consumers posed by activities in those markets; 
(cid:120)(cid:3) Depository institutions that offer a wide variety of consumer financial products and services; depository institutions with a 

more specialized focus; and 

(cid:120)(cid:3) Non-depository companies that offer one or more consumer financial products or services. 

The CFPB has broad rulemaking authority for a wide range of consumer financial laws that apply to all banks, including, among other 
things, the authority to prohibit “unfair, deceptive or abusive” acts and practices. Abusive acts or practices are defined as those that 
materially  interfere  with  a  consumer’s  ability  to  understand  a  term  or  condition  of  a  consumer  financial  product  or  service  or  take 
unreasonable advantage of a consumer’s (i) lack of financial savvy, (ii) inability to protect himself in the selection or use of consumer 
financial products or services, or (iii) reasonable reliance on a covered entity to act in the consumer’s interests. The CFPB can issue 
cease-and-desist orders against banks and other entities that violate consumer financial laws. The CFPB may also institute a civil action 
against  an  entity  in  violation  of  federal  consumer  financial  law  in  order  to  impose  a  civil  penalty  or  injunction.  The  CFPB  has 
examination and enforcement authority over all banks with more than $10 billion in assets, as well as their affiliates. 

Neither the recommendations of the Treasury Report nor the Financial CHOICE Act provide for the abolishment of the CFPB; both, 
however, call for the director of the CFPB to be subject to removal by the President and for repeal of the CFPB’s authority to perform 
examinations. We cannot predict whether or how the CFPB will be impacted by either pending or future legislation or by possible future 
executive action. 
Banking regulators take into account compliance with consumer protection laws when considering approval of a proposed transaction. 

Community Reinvestment Act. Pursuant to the Community Reinvestment Act (the “CRA”), under federal and New York State law, the 
Bank is obligated, consistent with safe and sound banking practices, to help meet the credit needs of its entire community, including low 
and moderate-income neighborhoods. The FRB of New York and NY DFS periodically assess the Bank’s record of performance under 
the CRA and issue one of the following ratings: “Outstanding,” “Satisfactory,” “Needs to Improve,” or “Substantial Noncompliance.” 

The most recently completed evaluation of the Bank’s performance under the CRA was conducted by the FRB of New York for the time 
period January 2011 through September 2013 and was disclosed to us in March 2018. This performance evaluation resulted in an overall 
rating  by  the  FRB  of  New  York  of  “Needs  to  Improve.”  In  reaching  this  rating  the  FRB  of  New  York  considered  several  factors, 
including  the  geographic  distribution  of  loans  we  made  from  January  2011  through  September  2013  in  the  Buffalo  and  Rochester 
metropolitan areas, the accessibility of our retail delivery systems and our level of compliance during the time period with the Equal 
Credit  Opportunity  Act  and  the  Fair  Housing  Act.  We  believe  the  Bank  has  made  significant  improvements  in  these  areas  since 
September 2013 and we are firmly committed to fair and responsible banking and helping to meet the credit needs of all segments of the 
communities that we serve. 

The FRB of New York’s evaluation of the Bank’s January 2011 through September 2013 CRA performance may subject the Bank to 
enhanced  scrutiny  in  any  application  it  files  with  the  FRB  of  New  York  or  the  NY  DFS  with  respect  to,  among  other  things,  the 
establishment of new branches, the expansion or relocation of existing branches, or the acquisition by the Bank of another depository 
institution. While the approval or denial of such an application is typically a facts and circumstances based determination, a less than 
satisfactory CRA rating would be one of the factors our regulators will consider in their review. 

The  NY  DFS  is  assessing  our  CRA  performance  since  2012  and  has  not  yet  completed  its  evaluation.  The  last  CRA  evaluation 
completed by the NY DFS was in 2011 and resulted in the Bank being rated as “Outstanding.” 

Privacy Rules. Federal banking regulators, as required under the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act, have adopted rules limiting the ability of 
banks and other financial institutions to disclose nonpublic information about consumers to non-affiliated third parties. The rules require 
disclosure  of  privacy  policies  to  consumers  and,  in  some  circumstances,  allow  consumers  to  prevent  disclosure  of  certain  personal 
information to non-affiliated third parties. The privacy provisions of the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act affect how consumer information is 
transmitted through diversified financial services companies and conveyed to outside vendors. 

In February 2017, the NY DFS issued a final rule, which became effective on March 1, 2017, requiring New York State-chartered or 
licensed banks regulated by the NY DFS, such as us, to adopt broad cybersecurity protections. Specifically, we are now required to 
establish  a  program  designed  to  ensure  the  safety  of  our  information  systems,  adopt  a  written  cybersecurity  policy,  designate  an 
information security officer, and comply with NY DFS certification and reporting requirements. Compliance with this rule is subject to 
four phase-in dates between September 2017 and March 2019. 

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Anti-Money Laundering and the USA Patriot Act. A major focus of governmental policy on financial institutions in recent years has 
been  aimed  at  combating  money  laundering  and  terrorist  financing.  The  USA  PATRIOT  Act  of  2001,  or  the  USA  Patriot  Act, 
substantially broadened the scope of United States anti-money laundering laws and regulations by imposing significant new compliance 
and due diligence obligations, creating new crimes and penalties and expanding the extra-territorial jurisdiction of the United States. 
Financial  institutions  are  also  prohibited  from  entering  into  specified  financial  transactions  and  account  relationships  and  must  use 
enhanced  due  diligence  procedures  in  their  dealings  with  certain  types  of  high-risk  customers  and  implement  a  written  customer 
identification program. Financial institutions must take certain steps to assist government agencies in detecting and preventing money 
laundering  and  report  certain  types  of  suspicious  transactions.  Regulatory  authorities  routinely  examine  financial  institutions  for 
compliance with these obligations, and for the failure of a financial institution to maintain and implement adequate programs to combat 
money  laundering  and  terrorist  financing,  or  to  comply  with  all  of  the  relevant  laws  or  regulations,  could  have  serious  legal  and 
reputational  consequences  for  the  institution,  including  causing  applicable  bank  regulatory  authorities  not  to  approve  merger  or 
acquisition transactions when regulatory approval is required or to prohibit such transactions even if approval is not required. Regulatory 
authorities have imposed cease and desist orders and civil money penalties against institutions found to be violating these obligations. 

Interstate Branching. Pursuant to the Dodd-Frank Act, national and state-chartered banks may open an initial branch in a state other 
than its home state (e.g., a host state) by establishing a de novo branch at any location in such host state at which a bank chartered in such 
host  state  could  establish  a  branch.  Applications  to  establish  such  branches  must  still  be  filed  with  the  appropriate  primary  federal 
regulator. It is too early to predict whether President Trump’s Executive Order or any subsequent presidential or congressional action 
will result in any change to a bank’s ability to establish a de novo branch in a host state. 

Transactions with Affiliates. FII, FSB, Five Star REIT, SDN, Courier Capital and HNP Capital are affiliates within the meaning of the 
Federal Reserve Act. The Federal Reserve Act imposes limitations on a bank with respect to extensions of credit to, investments in, and 
certain other transactions with, its parent bank holding company and the holding company’s other subsidiaries. Furthermore, bank loans 
and extensions of credit to affiliates also are subject to various collateral requirements. 

Various governmental requirements, including Sections 23A and 23B of the Federal Reserve Act and the FRB’s Regulation W, limit 
borrowings  by  FII  and  its  nonbank  subsidiaries  from  FSB,  and  also  limit  various  other  transactions  between  FII  and  its  nonbank 
subsidiaries,  on  the  one  hand,  and  FSB,  on  the  other.  For  example,  Section 23A  of  the  Federal  Reserve  Act  limits  the  aggregate 
outstanding amount of any insured depository institution’s loans and other “covered transactions” with any particular nonbank affiliate 
to no more than 10% of the institution’s total capital and limits the aggregate outstanding amount of any insured depository institution’s 
covered transactions with all of its nonbank affiliates to no more than 20% of its total capital. “Covered transactions” are defined by 
statute to include a loan or extension of credit, as well as a purchase of securities issued by an affiliate, a purchase of assets (unless 
otherwise exempted by the FRB) from the affiliate, the acceptance of securities issued by the affiliate as collateral for a loan, and the 
issuance of a guarantee, acceptance or letter of credit on behalf of an affiliate. Section 23A of the Federal Reserve Act also generally 
requires that an insured depository institution’s loans to its nonbank affiliates be, at a minimum, 100% secured, and Section 23B of the 
Federal Reserve Act generally requires that an insured depository institution’s transactions with its nonbank affiliates be on terms and 
under  circumstances  that  are  substantially  the  same  or  at  least  as  favorable  as  those  prevailing  for  comparable  transactions  with 
non-affiliates. The Dodd-Frank Act significantly expanded the coverage and scope of the limitations on affiliate transactions within a 
banking  organization.  For  example,  commencing  in  July  2012,  the  Dodd-Frank  Act  applies  the  10%  of  capital  limit  on  covered 
transactions to financial subsidiaries and amends the definition of “covered transaction” to include (i) securities borrowing or lending 
transactions with an affiliate, and (ii) all derivatives transactions with an affiliate, to the extent that either causes a bank or its affiliate to 
have credit exposure to the securities borrowing/lending or derivative counterparty. 

Office  of  Foreign  Assets  Control  Regulation.  The  U.S.  Treasury  Department’s  Office  of  Foreign  Assets  Control,  or  OFAC, 
administers and enforces economic and trade sanctions against targeted foreign countries and regimes, under authority of various laws, 
including designated foreign countries, nationals and others. OFAC publishes lists of specially designated targets and countries. The 
Company is responsible for, among other things, blocking accounts of, and transactions with, such targets and countries, prohibiting 
unlicensed trade and financial transactions with them and reporting blocked transactions after their occurrence. Failure to comply with 
these sanctions could have serious legal and reputational consequences, including causing applicable bank regulatory authorities not to 
approve merger or acquisition transactions when regulatory approval is required or to prohibit such transactions even if approval is not 
required. 

Insurance Regulation. SDN is required to be licensed or receive regulatory approval in nearly every state in which it does business. In 
addition, most jurisdictions require individuals who engage in brokerage and certain other insurance service activities to be personally 
licensed. These licensing laws and regulations vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. In most jurisdictions, licensing laws and regulations 
generally grant broad discretion to supervisory authorities to adopt and amend regulations and to supervise regulated activities. 

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Investment  Advisory  Regulation.  Courier  Capital  and  HNP  Capital  are  providers  of  investment  consulting  and  financial  planning 
services and, as such, are each considered an “investment adviser” under the U.S. Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended (the 
“Advisers Act”). An investment adviser is any person or entity that provides advice to others, or that issues reports or analyses, regarding 
securities for compensation. While a BHC is generally excluded from regulation under the Advisers Act, the SEC has stated that this 
exclusion does not apply to investment adviser subsidiaries of BHCs, such as Courier Capital and HNP Capital. Since Courier Capital 
and HNP Capital each have over $100 million in assets under management they are individually considered a “large adviser,” which 
requires  registration  with  the  SEC  by  filing  Form  ADV  and  updating  it  at  least  once  each  year,  and  more  frequently  under  certain 
specified circumstances. This registration covers Courier Capital or HNP Capital and its employees as well as other persons under their 
control and supervision, such as independent contractors, provided that their activities are undertaken on behalf of Courier Capital or 
HNP Capital. 

In  addition  to  these  registration  requirements,  the  Advisers  Act  contains  numerous  other  provisions  that  impose  obligations  on 
investment advisors. For example, Section 206 includes anti-fraud provisions that courts have interpreted as establishing fiduciary duties 
extending to all services undertaken on behalf of the client. These duties include, but are not limited to, the disclosure of all material facts 
to clients, providing only suitable investment advice, and seeking best price execution of trades. Section 206 also has specific rules 
relating to, among other things, advertising, safeguarding client assets, the engagement of third-parties, the duty to supervise persons 
acting on the investment adviser’s behalf, and the establishment of an effective internal compliance program and a code of ethics. 

Courier  Capital  and  HNP  Capital  are  subject  to  each  of  these  obligations  and,  as  applicable,  restrictions,  and  are  also  subject  to 
examination by the SEC’s Office of Compliance, Investigations, and Examinations to assess their overall compliance with the Advisers 
Act and the effectiveness of their internal controls. 

Prior to our acquisition of Courier Capital in January 2016 and HNP Capital in June 2018, the Bank had provided investment advisory 
and broker-dealer services to its customers through its subsidiary Five Star Investment Services, Inc. Commencing in October 2013, the 
Bank entered into a partnership with LPL Financial, one of the nation’s largest independent financial services companies (“LPL”), to 
provide investment advisory and broker-dealer services to its customers through LPL. This partnership continues and the Bank employs 
wealth advisors, who are licensed by LPL, to provide investment advisory and broker-dealer services to the Bank’s customers. LPL is an 
investment adviser registered under the Advisers Act and is subject to its provisions. 

Incentive  Compensation.  Our  compensation  practices  are  subject  to  oversight  by  the  Federal  Reserve.  In  June  2010,  the  Federal 
banking  agencies  issued  comprehensive  final  guidance  on  incentive  compensation  policies  intended  to  ensure  that  the  incentive 
compensation  policies  of  banking  organizations  do  not  undermine  the  safety  and  soundness  of  such  organizations  by  encouraging 
excessive  risk-taking.  The  guidance,  which  covers  all  employees  that  have  the  ability  to  materially  affect  the  risk  profile  of  an 
organization,  either  individually  or  as  part  of  a  group,  is  based  upon  the  key  principles  that  a  banking  organization’s  incentive 
compensation  arrangements  should  (i) provide  incentives  that  do  not  encourage  risk-taking  beyond  the  organization’s  ability  to 
effectively identify and manage risks, (ii) be compatible with effective internal controls and risk management, and (iii) be supported by 
strong corporate governance, including active and effective oversight by the organization’s board of directors. 

The  Dodd-Frank  Act  requires  the  federal  banking  agencies  to  establish  joint  regulations  or  guidelines  prohibiting  incentive-based 
payment arrangements at specified regulated entities having at least $1 billion in total consolidated assets (which would include the 
Company  and  the  Bank)  that  encourage  inappropriate  risks  by  providing  an  executive  officer,  employee,  director  or  principal 
shareholder with excessive compensation, fees or benefits or that could lead to material financial loss to the entity. In addition, the 
agencies  must  establish  regulations  or  guidelines  requiring  enhanced  disclosure  to  regulators  of  incentive-based  compensation 
arrangements. In May 2016, six federal agencies, including the FRB, the FDIC and the SEC, invited public comments on a proposed rule 
to accomplish this mandate; no final rule has since been issued, however, and it is uncertain at this time whether the agencies intend to 
further pursue the rule for the foreseeable future. 

The FRB will review, as part of the regular, risk-focused examination process, the incentive compensation arrangements of banking 
organizations,  such  as  the  Company,  that  are  not  “large,  complex  banking  organizations.”  These  reviews  will  be  tailored  to  each 
organization  based  on  the  scope  and  complexity  of  the  organization’s  activities  and  the  prevalence  of  incentive  compensation 
arrangements. The findings of the supervisory initiatives will be included in reports of examination. Deficiencies will be incorporated 
into  the  organization’s  supervisory  ratings,  which  can  affect  the  organization’s  ability  to  make  acquisitions  and  take  other  actions. 
Enforcement  actions  may  be  taken  against  a  banking  organization  if  its  incentive  compensation  arrangements,  or  related 
risk-management control or governance processes, pose a risk to the organization’s safety and soundness and the organization is not 
taking prompt and effective measures to correct the deficiencies. 

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Other  Future  Legislation  and  Changes  in  Regulations. In addition to the specific proposals described above, from time to time, 
various legislative and regulatory initiatives are introduced in Congress and state legislatures, as well as by regulatory agencies. Such 
initiatives may include proposals to expand or contract the powers of bank holding companies and depository institutions or proposals to 
substantially change the financial institution regulatory system. Such legislation could change banking statutes and/or our operating 
environment in substantial and unpredictable ways. If enacted, such legislation could increase or decrease the cost of doing business, 
limit  or  expand permissible  activities  or  affect  the  competitive balance among  banks, savings  associations,  credit  unions, and other 
financial  institutions.  We  cannot  predict  whether  any  such  legislation  will  be  enacted,  and,  if  enacted,  the  effect  that  it,  or  any 
implementing regulations, would have on our financial condition or results of operations. A change in statutes, regulations or regulatory 
policies applicable to us or our subsidiaries could have a material effect on our business. 

Impact of Inflation and Changing Prices 

Our financial statements included herein have been prepared in accordance with GAAP, which requires us to measure financial position 
and operating results principally using historic dollars. Changes in the relative value of money due to inflation or recession are generally 
not considered. The primary effect of inflation on our operations is reflected in increased operating costs. We believe changes in interest 
rates affect the financial condition of a financial institution to a far greater degree than changes in the inflation rate. While interest rates 
are generally influenced by changes in the inflation rate, they do not necessarily change at the same rate or in the same magnitude. 
Interest rates are sensitive to many factors that are beyond our control, including changes in the expected rate of inflation, general and 
local  economic  conditions  and  the  monetary  and  fiscal  policies  of  the  United  States  government,  its  agencies  and  various  other 
governmental regulatory authorities. 

Regulatory and Economic Policies 

Our business and earnings are affected by general and local economic conditions and by the monetary and fiscal policies of the U.S. 
government, its agencies and various other governmental regulatory authorities. The FRB regulates the supply of money in order to 
influence general economic conditions. Among the instruments of monetary policy available to the FRB are (i) conducting open market 
operations in U.S. government obligations, (ii) changing the discount rate on financial institution borrowings, (iii) imposing or changing 
reserve  requirements  against financial  institution deposits,  and (iv) restricting  certain borrowings  and  imposing  or  changing reserve 
requirements against certain borrowings by financial institutions and their affiliates. These methods are used in varying degrees and 
combinations to directly affect the availability of bank loans and deposits, as well as the interest rates charged on loans and paid on 
deposits. For that reason, the policies of the FRB could have a material effect on our earnings. 

On December 22, 2017, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the “TCJ Act”) was signed into law which, among other items, reduced the federal 
statutory corporate tax rate from 35 percent to 21 percent, effective January 1, 2018. 

EMPLOYEES 

At December 31, 2018, we had 725 employees, none of whom are subject to a collective bargaining agreement. Management believes 
our overall relations with employees are good. 

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ITEM 1A.    RISK FACTORS 

An investment in our common stock is subject to risks inherent to our business. The material risks and uncertainties that management 
believes  could  affect  us  are  described  below.  Before  making  an  investment  decision,  you  should  carefully  consider  the  risks  and 
uncertainties described below,  together with  all  of  the other  information  included or  incorporated by reference herein.  This  Annual 
Report on Form 10-K is qualified in its entirety by these risk factors. Further, to the extent that any of the information contained in this 
Annual Report on Form 10-K constitutes forward-looking statements, the risk factors set forth below also are cautionary statements 
identifying  important  factors  that  could  cause  our  actual  results  to  differ  materially  from  those  expressed  in  any  forward-looking 
statements made by or on behalf of us. 

If any of the following risks occur, our financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected. If this 
were to happen, the value of our common stock could decline significantly, and you could lose all or part of your investment. 

If we experience greater credit losses than anticipated, earnings may be adversely impacted. 

As a lender, we are exposed to the risk that customers will be unable to repay their loans according to their terms and that any collateral 
securing the payment of their loans may not be sufficient to assure repayment. Credit losses are inherent in the business of making loans 
and could have a material adverse impact on our results of operations. 

We  make  various  assumptions  and  judgments  about  the  collectability  of  our  loan  portfolio,  including  the  creditworthiness  of  our 
borrowers and the value of the real estate and other assets serving as collateral, and we provide an allowance for estimated loan losses 
based on a number of factors. We believe that the allowance for loan losses is adequate. However, if our assumptions or judgments are 
wrong, the allowance for loan losses may not be sufficient to cover the actual credit losses. We may have to increase the allowance in the 
future in response to the request of one of our primary banking regulators, to adjust for changing conditions and assumptions, or as a 
result of any deterioration in the quality of our loan portfolio. The actual amount of future provisions for credit losses may vary from the 
amount of past provisions. 

Our  tax  strategies  and  the  value  of  our  deferred  tax  assets  and  liabilities  could  adversely  affect  our  operating  results  and 
regulatory capital ratios. 

Our tax strategies are dependent upon our ability to generate taxable income in future periods. Our tax strategies will be less effective in 
the event we fail to generate taxable income. Our deferred tax assets are subject to an evaluation of whether it is more likely than not that 
they will be realized for financial statement purposes. In making this determination, we consider all positive and negative evidence 
available including the impact of recent operating results, reversals of existing taxable temporary differences, tax planning strategies and 
projected earnings within the statutory tax loss carryover period. If we were to conclude that a significant portion of our deferred tax 
assets were not more likely than not to be realized, the required valuation allowance could adversely affect our financial position, results 
of operations and regulatory capital ratios. In addition, the value of our deferred tax assets could be adversely affected by a change in 
statutory tax rates. 

Geographic concentration may unfavorably impact our operations. 

Substantially  all  of  our  operations  are  concentrated  in  the  Western  and  Central  New  York  region.  As  a  result  of  this  geographic 
concentration, our results depend largely on economic conditions in these and surrounding areas. Deterioration in economic conditions 
in our market could: 

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increase loan delinquencies; 
increase problem assets and foreclosures; 
increase claims and lawsuits; 
decrease the demand for our products and services; and 
decrease  the  value  of  collateral  for  loans,  especially  real  estate,  reducing  customers’  borrowing  power,  the  value  of  assets 
associated with non-performing loans and collateral coverage. 

Generally, we make loans to small to mid-sized businesses whose success depends on the regional economy. These businesses generally 
have fewer financial resources in terms of capital or borrowing capacity than larger entities. Adverse economic and business conditions 
in our market areas could reduce our growth rate, affect our borrowers’ ability to repay their loans and, consequently, adversely affect 
our business, financial condition and performance. For example, we place substantial reliance on real estate as collateral for our loan 
portfolio. A sharp downturn in real estate values in our market area could leave many of these loans inadequately collateralized. If we are 
required to liquidate the collateral securing a loan to satisfy the debt during a period of reduced real estate values, the impact on our 
results of operations could be materially adverse. 

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We depend on the accuracy and completeness of information about or from customers and counterparties. 

In deciding whether to extend credit or enter into other transactions, we may rely on information furnished by or on behalf of customers 
and counterparties, including financial statements, credit reports, and other financial information. We may also rely on representations of 
those  customers,  counterparties,  or  other  third  parties,  such  as  independent  auditors,  as  to  the  accuracy  and  completeness  of  that 
information. Reliance on inaccurate or misleading financial statements, credit reports, or other financial information could cause us to 
enter into unfavorable transactions, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. 

Our insurance brokerage subsidiary is subject to risk related to the insurance industry. 

SDN derives the bulk of its revenue from commissions and fees earned from brokerage services. SDN does not determine the insurance 
premiums  on  which  its  commissions  are  based. Insurance  premiums  are  cyclical  in  nature  and  may  vary  widely  based  on  market 
conditions. As a result, insurance brokerage revenues and profitability can be volatile. As insurance companies outsource the production 
of premium revenue to non-affiliated brokers or agents such as SDN, those insurance companies may seek to further minimize their 
expenses by reducing the commission rates payable to insurance agents or brokers, which could adversely affect SDN’s revenues.    In 
addition, there have been and may continue to be various trends in the insurance industry toward alternative insurance markets including, 
among other things, increased use of self-insurance, captives, and risk retention groups. While SDN has been able to participate in 
certain of these activities and earn fees for such services, there can be no assurance that we will realize revenues and profitability as 
favorable as those realized from SDN’s traditional brokerage activities. 

Our  investment  advisory  and  wealth  management  operations  are  subject  to  risks  related  to  the  regulation  of  the  financial 
services industry and market volatility. 

The financial services industry is subject to extensive regulation at the federal and state levels. It is very difficult to predict the future 
impact of the legislative and regulatory requirements affecting our business. The securities laws and other laws that govern the activities 
of  our  registered  investment  advisor  are  complex  and  subject  to  change.  The  activities  of  our  investment  advisory  and  wealth 
management operations are subject primarily to provisions of the Advisers Act and the Employee Retirement Income Act of 1940, as 
amended  (“ERISA”).  We  are  a  fiduciary  under  ERISA.  Our  investment  advisory  services  are  also  subject  to  state  laws  including 
anti-fraud laws and regulations. Any claim of noncompliance, regardless of merit or ultimate outcome, could subject us to investigation 
by the SEC or other regulatory authorities. Our compliance processes may not be sufficient to prevent assertions that we failed to comply 
with any applicable law, rule or regulation. If our investment advisory and wealth management operations are subject to investigation by 
the SEC or other regulatory authorities or if litigation is brought by clients based on our failure to comply with applicable regulations, 
our results of operations could be materially adversely affected. 

In addition, the majority of our investment advisory revenue is from fees based on the percentage of assets under management. The value 
of  the  assets  under  management  is  determined,  in  part,  by  market  conditions  that  can  be  volatile.  As  a  result,  investment  advisory 
revenues and profitability can fluctuate with market conditions. 

We may be unable to successfully implement our growth strategies, including the integration and successful management of 
newly-acquired businesses. 

Our current growth strategy is multi-faceted. We seek to expand our branch network into nearby areas, make strategic acquisitions of 
loans,  portfolios,  other  regional  banks  and  non-banking  firms  whose  businesses  we  feel  may  be  complementary  with  ours,  and  to 
continue to organically grow our core deposits. Any failure by us to effectively implement any one or more of these growth strategies 
could have several negative effects, including a possible decline in the size or the quality, or both, of our loan portfolio or a decrease in 
profitability caused by an increase in operating expenses. 

We hope to continue an active merger and acquisition strategy. However, even if we use our common stock as the predominant form of 
consideration, we may need to raise capital to negotiate a transaction on terms acceptable to us and there can be no assurance that we will 
be able to raise a sufficient amount of capital to enable us to complete an acquisition. It is also possible that even with adequate capital 
we may still be unable to complete an acquisition on favorable terms, causing us to miss opportunities to increase our earnings and 
expand or diversify our operations. 

Our growth strategy is also dependent upon the successful integration of new businesses, including Courier Capital and HNP Capital, as 
well  as  any  future  acquisitions,  into  our  existing  operations.  While  our  senior  management  team  has  had  extensive  experience  in 
acquisitions and post-acquisition integration, there is no guarantee that our current or future integration efforts will be successful, and if 
our senior management is forced to spend a disproportionate amount of time on integrating recently-acquired businesses, it may distract 
their attention from operating our business or pursuing other growth opportunities. 

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We are subject to environmental liability risk associated with our lending activities. 

A significant portion of our loan portfolio is secured by real property. During the ordinary course of business, we may foreclose on and 
take title to properties securing certain loans. There is a risk that hazardous or toxic substances could be found on properties we have 
foreclosed upon. If hazardous or toxic substances are found, we may be liable for remediation costs, as well as for personal injury and 
property damage regardless of whether we knew, had reason to know of, or caused the release of such substance. Environmental laws 
may require us to incur substantial expenses and may materially reduce the affected property’s value or limit our ability to use or sell the 
affected property. In addition, future laws or more stringent interpretations or enforcement policies with respect to existing laws may 
increase  our  exposure  to  environmental  liability.  The  remediation  costs  and  any  other  financial  liabilities  associated  with  an 
environmental hazard could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. 

Our commercial business and mortgage loans increase our exposure to credit risks. 

At December 31, 2018, our portfolio of commercial business and mortgage loans totaled $1,516.1 million, or 49.1% of total loans. We 
plan to continue to emphasize the origination of these types of loans, which generally expose us to a greater risk of nonpayment and loss 
than residential real estate or consumer loans because repayment of such loans often depends on the successful operations and income 
stream  of  the  borrowers.  Additionally,  such  loans  typically  involve  larger  loan  balances  to  single  borrowers  or  groups  of  related 
borrowers compared to consumer loans or residential real estate loans. A sudden downturn in the economy could result in borrowers 
being unable to repay their loans, thus exposing us to increased credit risk. 

Our indirect and consumer lending involves risk elements in addition to normal credit risk. 

A portion of our current lending involves the purchase of consumer automobile installment sales contracts from automobile dealers 
located  in  Western,  Central  and  the  Capital  District  of  New  York,  and  Northern  and  Central  Pennsylvania.  These  loans  are  for  the 
purchase of new or used automobiles. We serve customers that cover a range of creditworthiness, and the required terms and rates are 
reflective of those risk profiles. While these loans have higher yields than many of our other loans, such loans involve risk elements in 
addition to normal credit risk. Additional risk elements associated with indirect lending include the limited personal contact with the 
borrower as a result of indirect lending through non-bank channels, namely automobile dealers. While indirect automobile loans are 
secured, such loans are secured by depreciating assets and characterized by loan-to-value ratios that could result in us not recovering the 
full value of an outstanding loan upon default by the borrower. If the losses from our indirect loan portfolio are higher than anticipated, 
it could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. 

Our consumer lending activities are subject to numerous consumer protection laws and regulations. In particular, the CFPB has broad 
rulemaking powers and supervisory authority over consumer financial products and services. Although the CFPB’s supervisory role 
over our business is not yet certain due to the extended implementation period of the Dodd-Frank Act, rulemaking from the CFPB may 
increase our compliance costs and may subject us to the increased risk of claims from consumers. If we are unable to comply with 
enhanced regulatory requirements with respect to our consumer lending activities, our financial condition and results of operations may 
be adversely affected. 

Lack of seasoning in portions of our loan portfolio could increase risk of credit defaults in the future. 

As a result of our growth over the past several years, certain portions of our loan portfolio, such as the increased size of our commercial 
loan portfolio, are of relatively recent origin. Loans may not begin to show signs of credit deterioration or default until they have been 
outstanding for some period of time, a process referred to as “seasoning.” As a result, a portfolio of older loans will usually behave more 
predictably than a newer portfolio. Because these portions of our portfolio are relatively new, the current level of delinquencies and 
defaults may not represent the level that may prevail as the portfolio becomes more seasoned. If delinquencies and defaults increase, we 
may be required to increase our provision for loan losses, which could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and 
results of operations. 

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We accept deposits that do not have a fixed term and which may be withdrawn by the customer at any time for any reason. 

At  December 31,  2018,  we  had  $2.35 billion  of  deposit  liabilities  that  have  no  maturity  and,  therefore,  may  be  withdrawn  by  the 
depositor at any time. These deposit liabilities include our checking, savings, and money market deposit accounts. 

Market conditions may impact the competitive landscape for deposits in the banking industry. The unprecedented low rate environment 
and future actions the Federal Reserve may take may impact pricing and demand for deposits in the banking industry. The withdrawal of 
more deposits than we anticipate could have an adverse impact on our profitability as this source of funding, if not replaced by similar 
deposit funding, would need to be replaced with wholesale funding, the sale of interest-earning assets, or a combination of these two 
actions. The replacement of deposit funding with wholesale funding could cause our overall cost of funding to increase, which would 
reduce our net interest income. A loss of interest-earning assets could also reduce our net interest income. 

Any future FDIC insurance premium increases may adversely affect our earnings. 

The amount that is assessed by the FDIC for deposit insurance is set by the FDIC based on a variety of factors. These include the 
depositor insurance fund’s reserve ratio, the Bank’s assessment base, which is equal to average consolidated total assets minus average 
tangible equity, and various inputs into the FDIC’s assessment rate calculation. 

If there are financial institution failures, we may be required to pay higher FDIC premiums. Such increases of FDIC insurance premiums 
may adversely impact our earnings. See the section captioned “Supervision and Regulation” included in Part I, Item 1 “Business” for 
more information about FDIC insurance premiums. 

We are highly regulated, and any adverse regulatory action may result in additional costs, loss of business opportunities, and 
reputational damage. 

As  described  in  the  section  captioned  “Supervision  and  Regulation”  included  in  Part  I,  Item  1,  “Business,”  both  our  Banking  and 
Non-Banking  segments  are  subject  to  extensive  supervision,  regulation  and  examination.  The  various  regulatory  authorities  with 
jurisdiction over us have significant latitude in addressing our compliance with applicable laws and regulations including, but not limited 
to,  those  governing  consumer  credit,  fair  lending,  anti-money  laundering,  anti-terrorism,  capital  adequacy,  asset  quality  and  risk, 
management ability and performance, earnings, liquidity, and various other factors affecting us. As part of this regulatory structure, we 
are subject to policies and other guidance developed by the regulatory agencies with respect to, among other things, capital levels, the 
timing and amount of dividend payments, the classification of assets and the establishment of adequate loan loss reserves for regulatory 
purposes. Our regulators have broad discretion to impose restrictions and limitations on our operations if they determine, for any reason, 
that our operations are unsafe or unsound, fail to comply with applicable law or are otherwise inconsistent with laws and regulations or 
with the supervisory policies of these agencies. 

This supervisory framework could materially impact the conduct, growth and profitability of our operations. Any failure on our part to 
comply  with  current  laws,  regulations,  other  regulatory  requirements  or  safe  and  sound  banking,  insurance,  or  investment  advisory 
practices or concerns about our financial condition, or any related regulatory sanctions or adverse actions against us, could increase our 
costs or restrict our ability to expand our business and result in damage to our reputation. 

In March 2018, we were notified by the FRB of New York that its most recent evaluation of the Bank’s CRA performance for the period 
January  2011  through  September  2013,  resulted  in  an  overall  rating  of  “Needs  to  Improve.”  This  rating  may  subject  the  Bank  to 
enhanced scrutiny in any application for business expansion it files with the Federal Reserve or the NY DFS, which may result in a delay 
in approving or the denial of such application. In addition, the publication of the “Needs to Improve” rating may damage our reputation, 
making it more difficult for us to achieve our business goals and objectives, particularly in the Buffalo and Rochester metropolitan areas. 

We make certain assumptions and estimates in preparing our financial statements that may prove to be incorrect, which could 
significantly  impact  our  results  of  operations,  cash  flows  and  financial  condition,  and  we  are  subject  to  new  or  changing 
accounting  rules  and  interpretations,  and  the  failure  by  us  to  correctly  interpret  or  apply  these  evolving  rules  and 
interpretations could have a material adverse effect. 

Accounting  principles  generally  accepted  in  the  United  States  require  us  to  use  certain  assumptions  and  estimates  in  preparing  our 
financial statements, including in determining credit loss reserves and reserves related to litigation, among other items. Certain of our 
financial instruments, including available-for-sale securities and certain loans, require a determination of their fair value in order to 
prepare  our  financial  statements.  Where  quoted  market  prices  are  not  available,  we  may  make  fair  value  determinations  based  on 
internally developed models or other means, which ultimately rely to some degree on management judgment. Some of these and other 
assets and liabilities may have no direct observable price levels, making their valuation particularly subjective, as they are based on 
significant estimation and judgment. In addition, sudden illiquidity in markets or declines in prices of certain loans and securities may 
make it more difficult to value certain balance sheet items, which may lead to the possibility that such valuations will be subject to 
further change or adjustment. If assumptions or estimates underlying our financial statements are incorrect, we may experience material 
losses that would impact our results of operations, cash flows and financial condition. 

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As  indicated  in  Note  1,  Summary  of  Significant  Accounting  Policies  -  Recent  Accounting  Pronouncements,  to  the  Consolidated 
Financial  Statements  included  in  Item  8  of  this  Annual  Report  on  Form  10-K,  the  regulations,  rules,  standards,  policies,  and 
interpretations underlying GAAP are constantly evolving and may change significantly over time. If we fail to interpret any one or more 
of these GAAP provisions correctly, or if our methodology in applying them to our financial reporting or disclosures is at all flawed, our 
financial statements may contain inaccuracies that, if severe enough, could warrant a later restatement by us, which in turn could result in 
a material adverse event. 

Legal and regulatory proceedings and related matters could adversely affect us and the banking industry in general. 

We have been,  and  may  in  the  future be,  subject  to  various  legal  and regulatory  proceedings.  It  is  inherently difficult  to  assess  the 
outcome of these matters, and there can be no assurance that we will prevail in any proceeding or litigation. Legal and regulatory matters 
of any degree of significance could result in substantial cost and diversion of our efforts, which by itself could have a material adverse 
effect on our financial condition and operating results. While, as disclosed in Part I, Item 3, “Legal Proceedings,” our management does 
not believe that there are any pending or threatened proceedings against us, that, if determined adversely, would have a material adverse 
effect on our business, results of operations or financial condition, there can be no guarantee that such a proceeding will not arise in the 
near or long-term future. Further, adverse determinations in such matters could result in actions by our regulators that could materially 
adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations. 

We establish reserves for legal claims when payments associated with the claims become probable and the costs can be reasonably 
estimated.  We  may  still  incur  legal  costs  for  a  matter  even  if  we  have  not  established  a  reserve.  In  addition,  due  to  the  inherent 
subjectivity of the assessments and unpredictability of the outcome of legal proceedings, the actual cost of resolving a legal claim may be 
substantially higher than any amounts reserved for that matter. The ultimate resolution of a pending legal proceeding, depending on the 
remedy sought and granted, could adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition. 

A breach in security of our or third party information systems, including the occurrence of a cyber incident or a deficiency in 
cybersecurity, or a failure by us to comply with enhanced New York State cybersecurity regulations, may subject us to liability, 
result in a loss of customer business or damage our brand image. 

We rely heavily on communications, information systems (both internal and provided by third parties) and the internet to conduct our 
business. Our business depends on our ability to process and monitor a large volume of daily transactions in compliance with legal, 
regulatory  and  internal standards  and  specifications. In  addition,  a  significant portion  of  our operations relies heavily  on  the  secure 
processing, storage and transmission of personal and confidential information of our customers and clients. These risks may increase in 
the  future  as  our  customers  continue  to  adapt  to  mobile  payment  and  other  internet-based  product  offerings  and  we  expand  the 
availability of web-based products and applications. 

In addition, several U.S. financial institutions have experienced significant distributed denial-of-service attacks, some of which involved 
sophisticated and targeted attacks intended to disable or degrade service or sabotage systems. Other potential attacks have attempted to 
obtain unauthorized access to confidential information or destroy data, often through the introduction of computer viruses or malware, 
cyber-attacks and other means. To date, none of these types of attacks have had a material effect on our business or operations. Such 
security attacks can originate from a wide variety of sources, including persons who are involved with organized crime or who may be 
linked to terrorist organizations or hostile foreign governments. Those same parties may also attempt to fraudulently induce employees, 
customers or other users of our systems to disclose sensitive information in order to gain access to our data or that of our customers or 
clients.  We  are  also  subject  to  the  risk  that  our  employees  may  intercept  and  transmit  unauthorized  confidential  or  proprietary 
information. An interception, misuse or mishandling of personal, confidential or proprietary information being sent to or received from 
a customer or third party could result in legal liability, remediation costs, regulatory action and reputational harm, any of which could 
adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition. 

As of March 1, 2017, we were required to comply with new cybersecurity regulations promulgated by the NY DFS that are being phased 
in between September 2017 and March 2019. Any failure by us to timely and successfully implement some or all of these regulations, 
which mandate, among other things, the creation of a new cybersecurity program, a written policy, the appointment of an information 
security officer and certification by the NY DFS, could also result in regulatory sanctions, public disclosure and reputational damage 
even if we do not experience a significant cybersecurity breach. 

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We  face  competition  in  staying  current  with  technological  changes and banking alternatives  to  compete and  meet  customer 
demands. 

The financial services market, including banking services, faces rapid changes with frequent introductions of new technology-driven 
products and services. Our future success may depend, in part, on our ability to use technology to provide products and services that 
provide convenience to customers and to create additional efficiencies in our operations. Some of our competitors have substantially 
greater resources to invest in technological improvements than we currently have. We may not be able to effectively implement new 
technology-driven  products  and  services  or  be  successful  in  marketing  these  products  and  services  to  our  customers.  In  addition, 
technology  and  other  changes  are  allowing  consumers  to  utilize  alternative  methods  to  complete  financial  transactions  that  have 
historically involved banks. For example, consumers can now maintain funds in brokerage accounts or mutual funds that would have 
historically been held as bank deposits. Consumers can also complete transactions such as paying bills and transferring funds directly 
without  using  a  traditional  bank  as  an  intermediary.  The  process  of  eliminating  banks  as  intermediaries  could  result  in  the  loss  of 
customer  deposits,  the  related  income  generated  from  those  deposits  and  additional  fee  income.  We  may  not  be  able  to  effectively 
compete with these banking alternatives for consumer deposits. As a result, our ability to effectively compete to retain or acquire new 
business may be impaired, and our business, financial condition or results of operations, may be adversely affected. 

We rely on other companies to provide key components of our business infrastructure. 

Third  party  vendors  provide  key  components  of  our  business  infrastructure  such  as  internet  connections,  network  access  and  core 
application processing. While we have selected these third party vendors carefully, we do not control their actions. Any problems caused 
by these third parties, including as a result of them not providing us their services for any reason or them performing their services 
poorly, could adversely affect our ability to deliver products and services to our customers or otherwise conduct our business efficiently 
and effectively. Replacing these third party vendors could also entail significant delay and expense. 

Third parties perform significant operational services on our behalf. These third-party vendors are subject to similar risks as us relating 
to cybersecurity, breakdowns or failures of their own systems or employees. One or more of our vendors may experience a cybersecurity 
event or operational disruption and, if any such event does occur, it may not be adequately addressed, either operationally or financially, 
by the third-party vendor. Certain of our vendors may have limited indemnification obligations or may not have the financial capacity to 
satisfy  their  indemnification  obligations.  Financial  or  operational  difficulties  of  a  vendor  could  also  impair  our  operations  if  those 
difficulties interfere with the vendor’s ability to serve us. If a critical vendor is unable to meet our needs in a timely manner or if the 
services or products provided by such a vendor are terminated or otherwise delayed and if we are not able to develop alternative sources 
for these services and products quickly and cost-effectively, it could have a material adverse effect on our business. Federal banking 
regulators recently issued regulatory guidance on how banks select, engage and manage their outside vendors. These regulations may 
affect the circumstances and conditions under which we work with third parties and the cost of managing such relationships. 

We use financial models for business planning purposes that may not adequately predict future results. 

We use financial models to aid in planning for various purposes including our capital and liquidity needs, interest rate risk, potential 
charge-offs, reserves, and other purposes. The models used may not accurately account for all variables that could affect future results, 
may fail to predict outcomes accurately and/or may overstate or understate certain effects. As a result of these potential failures, we may 
not adequately prepare for future events and may suffer losses or other setbacks due to these failures. 

We may not be able to attract and retain skilled people. 

Our success depends, in large part, on our ability to attract and retain skilled people. Competition for highly talented people can be 
intense, and we may not be able to hire sufficiently skilled people or retain them. Further, the rural location of our principal executive 
offices and many of our bank branches make it challenging for us to attract skilled people to such locations. The unexpected loss of 
services of one or more of our key personnel could have a material adverse impact on our business because of their skills, knowledge of 
our markets, years of industry experience, and the difficulty of promptly finding qualified replacement personnel. 

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Acquisitions may disrupt our business and dilute shareholder value. 

We  intend  to  continue  to  pursue  a  growth  strategy  for  our  business  by  expanding  our  branch  network  into  communities  within  or 
adjacent to markets where we currently conduct business. We may consider acquisitions of loans or securities portfolios, lending or 
leasing firms, commercial and small business lenders, residential lenders, direct banks, banks or bank branches, wealth and investment 
management firms, securities brokerage firms, specialty finance or other financial services-related companies. We also intend to expand 
our non-banking subsidiaries, SDN, Courier Capital and HNP Capital, by acquiring smaller insurance agencies and wealth management 
firms in areas which complement our current footprint. We may be unsuccessful in expanding our non-banking subsidiaries through 
acquisition because of the growing interest in acquiring insurance brokers and wealth management firms, which could make it more 
difficult  for  us  to  identify  appropriate  targets  and  could  make  such  acquisitions  more  expensive.  Even  if  we  are  able  to  identify 
appropriate acquisition targets, we may not have sufficient capital to fund acquisitions or be able to execute transactions on favorable 
terms. If we are unable to expand our non-banking operations through smaller acquisitions, we may not be able to achieve all of the 
expected benefits of the SDN, Courier Capital and HNP Capital acquisitions, which could adversely affect our results of operations and 
financial condition. 

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Acquiring  other  banks,  businesses,  or  branches  involves  potential  adverse  impact  to  our  financial  results  and  various  other  risks 
commonly associated with acquisitions, including, among other things: 
difficulty in estimating the value of the target company; 
payment of a premium over book and market values that may dilute our tangible book value and earnings per share in the short 
and long term; 
potential exposure to unknown or contingent liabilities of the target company; 
exposure to potential asset quality issues of the target company; 
volatility in reported income as goodwill impairment losses could occur irregularly and in varying amounts; 
challenge and expense of integrating the operations and personnel of the target company; 
inability to realize the expected revenue increases, cost savings, increases in geographic or product presence, and / or other 
projected benefits; 
potential disruption to our business; 
potential diversion of our management’s time and attention; 
the possible loss of key employees and customers of the target company; 
potential changes in banking or tax laws or regulations that may affect the target company; and 
additional regulatory burdens associated with new lines of business. 

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We are subject to interest rate risk, and a rising rate environment may reduce our income and result in higher defaults on our 
loans. 

Our earnings and cash flows depend largely upon our net interest income. Interest rates are highly sensitive to many factors that are 
beyond  our  control,  including  general  economic  conditions  and  policies  of  governmental  and  regulatory  agencies,  particularly  the 
Federal Reserve. Changes in monetary policy, including changes in interest rates, could influence not only the interest we receive on 
loans and investments and the amount of interest we pay on deposits and borrowings, but such changes could also affect (i) our ability to 
originate  loans  and  obtain  deposits;  (ii) the  fair  value  of  our  financial  assets  and  liabilities;  and  (iii) the  average  duration  of  our 
mortgage-backed securities portfolio and other interest-earning assets.   

If the interest rates paid on deposits and other borrowings increase at a faster rate than the interest rates received on loans and other 
investments,  our  net  interest  income,  and  therefore  earnings,  could  be  adversely  affected.  In  addition,  our  net  interest  margin  may 
contract in a rising rate environment because our funding costs may increase faster than the yield we earn on our interest-earning assets. 
In a rising rate environment, loans with adjustable interest rates are more likely to experience a higher rate of default. The combination of 
these events may adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations. 

Earnings could also be adversely affected if the interest rates received on loans and other investments fall more quickly than the interest 
rates paid on deposits and other borrowings. If we are unable to manage these risks effectively, our financial condition and results of 
operations could be materially adversely affected. 

Any substantial, unexpected or prolonged change in market interest rates could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition 
and results of operations. Also, our interest rate risk modeling techniques and assumptions likely may not fully predict or capture the 
impact of actual interest rate changes on our balance sheet. 

-(cid:3)26 - 

 
 
 
Our business may be adversely affected by conditions in the financial markets and economic conditions generally. 

Our financial performance generally, and in particular the ability of borrowers to pay interest on and repay principal of outstanding loans 
and the value of collateral securing those loans, as well as demand for loans and other products and services we offer, is highly dependent 
on the business environment in the markets where we operate, in the State of New York and in the United States as a whole. A favorable 
business environment is generally characterized by, among other factors, economic growth, efficient capital markets, low inflation, low 
unemployment, high business and investor confidence, and strong business earnings. Unfavorable or uncertain economic and market 
conditions  can  be  caused  by  declines  in  economic  growth,  business  activity  or  investor  or  business  confidence;  limitations  on  the 
availability or increases in the cost of credit and capital; increases in inflation or interest rates; high unemployment, natural disasters; or 
a combination of these or other factors. The occurrence of any of these conditions could have a material adverse effect on our financial 
condition and results of operations. 

The policies of the Federal Reserve have a significant impact on our earnings. 

The policies of the Federal Reserve impact us significantly. The Federal Reserve regulates the supply of money and credit in the United 
States. Its policies directly and indirectly influence the rate of interest earned on loans and paid on borrowings and interest-bearing 
deposits and can also affect the value of financial instruments we hold. Those policies determine, to a significant extent, our cost of funds 
for lending and investing and impact our net interest income, our primary source of revenue. Changes in those policies are beyond our 
control and are difficult to predict. Federal Reserve policies can also affect our borrowers, potentially increasing the risk that they may 
fail to repay their loans. For example, a tightening of the money supply by the Federal Reserve could reduce the demand for a borrower’s 
products and services. This could adversely affect the borrower’s earnings and ability to repay its loan, which could have a material 
adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. 

The soundness of other financial institutions could adversely affect us. 

Financial services institutions are interrelated as a result of trading, clearing, counterparty, or other relationships. We have exposure to 
many different industries and counterparties, and we routinely execute transactions with counterparties in the financial services industry, 
including commercial banks, brokers and dealers, investment banks, and other institutional clients. Many of these transactions expose us 
to credit risk in the event of a default by our counterparty or client. In addition, our credit risk may be exacerbated when the collateral 
held by us cannot be realized or is liquidated at prices not sufficient to recover the full amount of the credit or derivative exposure due us. 
Any such losses could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. 

The value of our goodwill and other intangible assets may decline in the future. 

As of December 31, 2018,  we  had  $66.1 million  of  goodwill  and $10.1 million of other intangible  assets.  Significant  and  sustained 
declines in our stock price and market capitalization, significant declines in our expected future cash flows, significant adverse changes 
in the business climate or slower growth rates, any or all of which could be materially impacted by many of the risk factors discussed 
herein, may necessitate our taking charges in the future related to the impairment of our goodwill. Future regulatory actions could also 
have a material impact on assessments of goodwill for impairment. If the fair value of our net assets improves at a faster rate than the 
market value of our reporting units, or if we were to experience increases in book values of a reporting unit in excess of the increase in 
fair value of equity, we may also have to take charges related to the impairment of our goodwill. If we were to conclude that a future 
write-down of our goodwill is necessary, we would record the appropriate charge, which could have a material adverse effect on our 
results of operations. 

Identifiable intangible assets other than goodwill consist of core deposit intangibles and other intangible assets (primarily customer 
relationships). Adverse events or circumstances could impact the recoverability of these intangible assets including loss of core deposits, 
significant losses of customer accounts and/or balances, increased competition or adverse changes in the economy. To the extent these 
intangible assets are deemed unrecoverable, a non-cash impairment charge would be recorded which could have a material adverse 
effect on our results of operations. 

During the fourth quarter of 2015, we determined that the carrying value of our SDN reporting unit exceeded its fair value and recorded 
a $751 thousand impairment charge. During the second quarter of 2017, we determined that the carrying value of our SDN reporting unit 
exceeded  its  fair  value  and  recorded  an  additional  $1.6 million  impairment  charge.  During  the  fourth  quarter  of  2018,  we  again 
determined that the carrying value of our SDN reporting unit exceeded its fair value and recorded an additional $2.4 million impairment 
charge. For further discussion, see Note 1, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, and Note 7, Goodwill and Other Intangible 
Assets, to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. 

-(cid:3)27 - 

 
 
 
We operate in a highly competitive industry and market area. 

We face substantial competition in all areas of our operations from a variety of different competitors, many of which are larger and may 
have more financial resources than us. Such competitors primarily include national, regional and internet banks within the markets in 
which we operate. We also face competition from many other types of financial institutions, including, without limitation, savings and 
loan  associations,  credit  unions,  finance  companies,  brokerage  firms,  insurance  companies  and  other  financial  intermediaries.  The 
financial services industry could become even more competitive as a result of legislative, regulatory and technological changes and 
continued consolidation. Banks, securities firms and insurance companies can merge under the umbrella of a financial holding company, 
which  can  offer  virtually  any  type  of  financial  service,  including  banking,  securities  underwriting,  insurance  (both  agency  and 
underwriting), and merchant banking. Also, technology has lowered barriers to entry and made it possible for nonbanks to offer products 
and services traditionally provided by banks, such as automatic transfer and automatic payment systems. More recently, peer to peer 
lending has emerged as an alternative borrowing source for our customers and many other non-banks offer lending and payment services 
in  competition  with  banks.  Many  of  these  competitors  have  fewer  regulatory  constraints  and  may  have  lower  cost  structures. 
Additionally, due to their size, many of our larger competitors may be able to achieve economies of scale and, as a result, may offer a 
broader range of products and services as well as better pricing for those products and services than we can. 
Our ability to compete successfully depends on a number of factors, including, among other things: 

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the ability to develop, maintain and build upon long-term customer relationships based on top quality service, high ethical 
standards and safe, sound assets; 
the ability to expand our market position; 
the scope, relevance and pricing of products and services offered to meet customer needs and demands; 
the rate at which we introduce new products and services relative to our competitors; 
customer satisfaction with our level of service; and 
industry and general economic trends. 

Failure to perform in any of these areas could significantly weaken our competitive position, which could adversely affect our growth 
and profitability, which, in turn, could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. 

Severe weather, natural disasters, acts of war or terrorism, and other external events could significantly impact our business. 

Severe weather, natural disasters, acts of war or terrorism, and other adverse external events could have a significant impact on our 
ability to conduct business. Such events could affect the operations of our bank branches, stability of our deposit base, impair the ability 
of borrowers to repay outstanding loans, impair the value of collateral securing loans, cause significant property damage, result in loss of 
revenue, and/or cause us to incur additional expenses. The occurrence of any such event could have a material adverse effect on our 
business, which, in turn, could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. 

Liquidity is essential to our businesses. 

Our liquidity could be impaired by an inability to access the capital markets or unforeseen outflows of cash. Reduced liquidity may arise 
due to circumstances that we may be unable to control, such as a general market disruption or an operational problem that affects third 
parties or us. Our efforts to monitor and manage liquidity risk may not be successful or sufficient to deal with dramatic or unanticipated 
reductions in our liquidity. In such events, our cost of funds may increase, thereby reducing our net interest income, or we may need to 
sell a portion of our investment and/or loan portfolio, which, depending upon market conditions, could result in us realizing a loss. 

We may need to raise additional capital in the future and such capital may not be available on acceptable terms or at all. 

We may need to raise additional capital in the future to provide sufficient capital resources and liquidity to meet our commitments and 
business needs. Our ability to raise additional capital, if needed, will depend on our financial performance and, among other things, 
conditions in the capital markets at that time, which is outside of our control. 

In addition, we are highly regulated, and our regulators could require us to raise additional common equity in the future. We and our 
regulators  perform  a  variety  of  analyses  of  our  assets,  including  the  preparation  of  stress  case  scenarios,  and  as  a  result  of  those 
assessments we could determine, or our regulators could require us, to raise additional capital. 

We may not be able to access required capital on acceptable terms or at all. Any occurrence that may limit our access to the capital 
markets, such as a decline in the confidence of debt purchasers, depositors of the Bank or counterparties participating in the capital 
markets, or a downgrade of our debt rating, may adversely affect our capital costs and ability to raise capital and, in turn, our liquidity. 
An inability to raise additional capital on acceptable terms when needed could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial 
condition, results of operations or liquidity. 

-(cid:3)28 - 

 
We rely on dividends from our subsidiaries for most of our revenue. 

We are a separate and distinct legal entity from our subsidiaries. A substantial portion of our revenue comes from dividends from our 
Bank subsidiary. These dividends are the principal source of funds we use to pay dividends on our common and preferred stock, and to 
pay interest and principal on our debt. Federal and/or state laws and regulations limit the amount of dividends that our Bank subsidiary 
may pay to us. Also, our right to participate in a distribution of assets upon a subsidiary’s liquidation or reorganization is subject to the 
prior claims of the subsidiary’s creditors. In the event our Bank subsidiary is unable to pay dividends to us, we may not be able to service 
debt, pay obligations, or pay dividends on our common and preferred stock. The inability to receive dividends from our Bank subsidiary 
could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations. 

We may not pay or may reduce the dividends on our common stock. 

Holders of our common stock are only entitled to receive such dividends as our Board of Directors may declare out of funds legally 
available for such payments. Although we have historically declared cash dividends on our common stock, we are not required to do so 
and may reduce or eliminate our common stock dividend in the future. This could adversely affect the market price of our common 
stock. 

We may issue debt and equity securities or securities convertible into equity securities, any of which may be senior to our 
common stock as to distributions and in liquidation, which could dilute our current shareholders or negatively affect the value 
of our common stock. 

In the future, we may attempt to increase our capital resources by entering into debt or debt-like financing that is unsecured or secured by 
all or up to all of our assets, or by issuing additional debt or equity securities, which could include issuances of secured or unsecured 
commercial paper, medium-term notes, senior notes, subordinated notes, preferred stock or securities convertible into or exchangeable 
for  equity  securities.  In  the  event  of  our  liquidation,  our  lenders  and  holders  of  our  debt  and  preferred  securities  would  receive  a 
distribution of our available assets before distributions to the holders of our common stock. Because our decision to incur debt and issue 
securities in our future offerings will depend on market conditions and other factors beyond our control, we cannot predict or estimate 
the amount, timing or nature of our future offerings and debt financings. Further, market conditions could require us to accept less 
favorable terms for the issuance of our securities in the future. We may also issue additional shares of our common stock or securities 
convertible into or exchangeable for our common stock that could dilute our current shareholders and effect the value of our common 
stock. 

Our certificate of incorporation, our bylaws, and certain banking laws may have an anti-takeover effect. 

Provisions  of  our  certificate  of  incorporation,  our  bylaws,  and  federal  and  state  banking  laws,  including  regulatory  approval 
requirements, could make it more difficult for a third party to acquire us, even if doing so would be perceived to be beneficial to our 
shareholders. The combination of these provisions may discourage others from initiating a potential merger, takeover or other change of 
control transaction, which, in turn, could adversely affect the market price of our common stock. 

The market price of our common stock may fluctuate significantly in response to a number of factors. 

Our quarterly and annual operating results have varied in the past and could vary significantly in the future, which makes it difficult for 
us to predict our future operating results. Our operating results may fluctuate due to a variety of factors, many of which are outside of our 
control, including the changing U.S. economic environment and changes in the commercial and residential real estate market, any of 
which may cause our stock price to fluctuate. If our operating results fall below the expectations of investors or securities analysts, the 
price of our common stock could decline substantially. Our stock price can fluctuate significantly in response to a variety of factors 
including, among other things: 

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volatility of stock market prices and volumes in general; 
changes in market valuations of similar companies; 
changes in conditions in credit markets; 
changes in accounting policies or procedures as required by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) or other 
regulatory agencies; 
legislative and regulatory actions (including the impact of implementing the Dodd-Frank Act or rolling back its regulations) 
subjecting us to additional or different regulatory oversight which may result in increased compliance costs and/or require us to 
change our business model; 
government intervention in the U.S. financial system and the effects of and changes in trade and monetary and fiscal policies 
and laws, including the interest rate policies of the Federal Reserve Board; 
additions or departures of key members of management; 
fluctuations in our quarterly or annual operating results; and 
changes in analysts’ estimates of our financial performance. 

-(cid:3)29 - 

 
ITEM 1B.    UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS 

None. 

ITEM 2.    PROPERTIES 

We own a 27,400 square foot building in Warsaw, New York that serves as our headquarters, and principal executive and administrative 
offices. We lease a 52,300 square foot regional administrative facility located in Rochester, New York. This lease expires in August 
2027, with options for two additional ten-year extensions. 

We are engaged in the banking business through 53 branch offices, of which 35 are owned and 18 are leased, in the following fifteen 
contiguous  counties  of  Western  and  Central  New  York:  Allegany,  Cattaraugus,  Cayuga,  Chautauqua,  Chemung,  Erie,  Genesee, 
Livingston,  Monroe,  Ontario, Orleans,  Seneca,  Steuben, Wyoming  and  Yates  Counties.  The  operating  leases  for our branch offices 
expire at various dates through the year 2047 and generally include options to renew. The Bank also has administrative operations at a 
leased facility in Amherst, New York. 

SDN operates from a leased 14,400 square foot office located in Williamsville, New York. The lease for such space, which is used by 
SDN and several of our Bank’s commercial lenders, extends through September 2021. SDN also leases one retail location. 

Courier Capital operates from an owned 11,000 square foot office, located in Buffalo, New York. Courier Capital also has operations at 
a leased facility in Amherst, New York and an owned facility in Jamestown, New York. 

We believe that our properties have been adequately maintained, are in good operating condition and are suitable for our business as 
presently  conducted,  including  meeting  the  prescribed  security  requirements.  For  additional  information,  see  Note  6,  Premises  and 
Equipment, Net, and Note 11, Commitments and Contingencies, in the accompanying financial statements included in Part II, Item 8, of 
this Annual Report on Form 10-K. 

ITEM 3.    LEGAL PROCEEDINGS 

From time to time we are a party to or otherwise involved in legal proceedings arising out of the normal course of business. Management 
does not believe that there is any pending or threatened proceeding against us, which, if determined adversely, would have a material 
adverse effect on our business, results of operations or financial condition. 

ITEM 4.    MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES 

Not applicable. 

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ITEM 5.    MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER 
PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES 

PART II 

Our common stock is traded on the Nasdaq Global Select Market under the ticker symbol “FISI.” At February 22, 2019, 15,928,598 
shares  of  our  common  stock  were  outstanding  and  held  by  approximately  3,400  shareholders  of  record.  See  additional  information 
regarding the market price and dividends paid in Part II, Item 6, “Selected Financial Data.” 

We have paid regular quarterly cash dividends on our common stock and our Board of Directors presently intends to continue this 
practice, subject to our results of operations and the need for those funds for debt service and other purposes. See the discussions in the 
section captioned “Supervision and Regulation” included in Part I, Item 1, “Business,” in the section captioned “Liquidity and Capital 
Resources” included in Part II, Item 7, in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” 
and in Note 12, Regulatory Matters, in the accompanying financial statements included in Part II, Item 8, “Financial Statements and 
Supplementary Data,” all of which are included elsewhere in this report and incorporated herein by reference thereto. 

Stock Performance Graph 

The  stock  performance  graph  below  compares  (a) the  cumulative  total  return  on  our  common  stock  for  the  period  beginning 
December 31, 2013 as reported by the Nasdaq Global Select Market, through December 31, 2018, (b) the cumulative total return on 
stocks included in the NASDAQ Composite Index over the same period, and (c) the cumulative total return, as compiled by S&P Global 
Market Intelligence of Major Exchange (NYSE, NYSE American and Nasdaq) Banks with $1 billion to $5 billion in assets over the 
same period. Cumulative return assumes the reinvestment of dividends. The graph was prepared by S&P Global Market Intelligence and 
is expressed in dollars based on an assumed investment of $100. 

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(cid:81)

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Index 
Financial Institutions, Inc. 
NASDAQ Composite Index 
SNL Bank $1B-$5B Index 

Period Ending 
12/31/13   12/31/14   12/31/15   12/31/16      12/31/17   12/31/18  

100.00
100.00
100.00

105.17
114.75
104.56

120.99
122.74
117.04

151.97          142.06
133.62          173.22
168.38          179.51

121.08
168.30
157.27  

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ITEM 6.    SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA 

  (Dollars in thousands, except per share data) 

Selected financial condition data: 
Total assets 
Loans, net 
Investment securities 
Deposits 
Borrowings 
Shareholders’ equity 
Common shareholders’ equity 
Tangible common shareholders’ equity (1) 

Selected operations data: 
Interest income 
Interest expense 
Net interest income 
Provision for loan losses 
Net interest income after provision for loan losses 
Noninterest income 
Noninterest expense 
Income before income taxes 
Income tax expense 
Net income 
Preferred stock dividends 
Net income available to common shareholders 

Stock and related per share data: 
Earnings per common share: 

Basic 
Diluted 

Cash dividends declared per common share 
Common book value per share 
Tangible common book value per share (1) 
Market price (Nasdaq: FISI): 

High 
Low 
Close 

2018 

$ 4,311,698
3,052,684
892,258
3,366,907
508,702
396,293
378,965
302,792

$

$

$

$
$
$
$
$

$
$
$

152,732
29,868
122,864
8,934
113,930
36,478
100,876
49,532
10,006
39,526
1,461
38,065

2.39
2.39
0.96
23.79
19.01

34.35
24.49
25.70

At or for the year ended December 31, 
2016 

2017 

2015 

$ 4,105,210
2,700,345
1,041,439
3,210,174
485,331
381,177
363,848
289,145

$ 3,710,340      $ 3,381,024
2,309,227          2,056,677
1,083,264          1,030,112
2,995,222          2,730,531
370,561          332,090
320,054          293,844
302,714          276,504
227,074          209,558

$

$

$

$
$
$
$
$

$
$
$

130,110
17,495
112,615
13,361
99,254
34,730
90,513
43,471
9,945
33,526
1,462
32,064

2.13
2.13
0.85
22.85
18.16

35.40
25.65
31.10

$

$

$

$
$
$
$
$

$
$
$

115,231      $  105,450
10,137
95,313
7,381
87,932
30,337
79,393
38,876
10,539
28,337
1,462
26,875

12,541         
102,690         
9,638         
93,052         
35,760         
84,671         
44,141         
12,210         
31,931      $ 
1,462         
30,469      $ 

2.11      $ 
2.10      $ 
0.81      $ 
20.82      $ 
15.62      $ 

34.55      $ 
25.98      $ 
34.20      $ 

1.91
1.90
0.80
19.49
14.77

29.04
21.67
28.00

2014 

$ 3,089,521
1,884,365
916,932
2,450,527
334,804
279,532
262,192
193,553

$

$

$

$
$
$
$
$

$
$
$

101,055
7,281
93,774
7,789
85,985
25,350
72,355
38,980
9,625
29,355
1,462
27,893

2.01
2.00
0.77
18.57
13.71

27.02
19.72
25.15  

(1)  This is a non-GAAP measure that we believe is useful in understanding our financial performance and condition. Refer to the GAAP 

to Non-GAAP Reconciliation for further information. 

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  (Dollars in thousands) 

Performance ratios: 
Net income, returns on: 
Average assets 
Average equity 

Net income available to common shareholders, returns on:

Average common equity 
Average tangible common equity (1) 
Average tangible assets (1) 
Common dividend payout ratio 
Net interest margin (fully tax-equivalent) 
Effective tax rate 
Efficiency ratio (2) 

Capital ratios: 
Leverage ratio (3) 
Common equity Tier 1 capital ratio (3) 
Tier 1 capital ratio (3) 
Total risk-based capital ratio (3) 
Average equity to average assets 
Common equity to assets 
Tangible common equity to tangible assets (1) 

Asset quality: 
Non-performing loans 
Non-performing assets 
Allowance for loan losses 
Net loan charge-offs 
Non-performing loans to total loans 
Non-performing assets to total assets
Net charge-offs to average loans 
Allowance for loan losses to total loans 
Allowance for loan losses to non-performing loans 

Other data: 
Number of branches 
Full time equivalent employees 

2018 

0.95%
10.18%

10.26%
12.95%
0.93%
40.17%
3.18%
20.2%
62.73%

8.16%
9.70%
10.21%
12.38%
9.31%
8.79%
7.15%

At or for the year ended December 31, 
2016 

2017 

2015 

0.86%
9.62%

9.68%
12.51%
0.84%
39.91%
3.21%
22.9%
60.65%

8.13%
10.16%
10.74%
13.19%
8.95%
8.86%
7.17%

0.90 %     
10.01 %     

0.87%
9.78%

10.10 %     
13.51 %     
0.88 %     
38.39 %     
3.24 %     
27.7 %     
60.95 %     

7.36 %     
9.59 %     
10.26 %     
12.97 %     
8.99 %     
8.16 %     
6.25 %     

9.87%
13.16%
0.84%
41.88%
3.28%
27.1%
62.44%

7.41%
9.77%
10.50%
13.35%
8.86%
8.18%
6.32%

$
$
$
$

$
$
$
$

7,141
7,371
33,914
9,692
0.23%
0.17%
0.33%
1.10%
475%

$
$
$
$

12,531
12,679
34,672
9,623
0.46%
0.31%
0.38%
1.27%
277%

6,326      $ 
6,433      $ 
30,934      $ 
5,789      $ 
0.27 %     
0.17 %     
0.26 %     
1.32 %     
489 %     

$
$
$
$

8,440
8,603
27,085
7,933
0.41%
0.25%
0.40%
1.30%
321%

2014 

0.98%
10.80%

10.96%
14.12%
0.95%
38.31%
3.50%
24.7%
59.18%

7.35%

n/a

10.47%
11.72%
9.08%
8.49%
6.41%

10,153
10,347
27,637
6,888
0.53%
0.33%
0.37%
1.45%
272%

53
702

53
639

52         
631         

50
660

49
622  

(1)  This is a non-GAAP measure that we believe is useful in understanding our financial performance and condition. Refer to the GAAP 

to Non-GAAP Reconciliation for further information. 

(2)  Efficiency ratio provides a ratio of operating expenses to operating income. Efficiency ratio is calculated by dividing noninterest 
expense by net revenue, which is defined as the sum of tax-equivalent net interest income and noninterest income before net gains 
on investment securities. The efficiency ratio is not a financial measurement required by GAAP. However, the efficiency ratio is 
used  by  management  in  its  assessment  of  financial  performance  specifically  as  it  relates  to  noninterest  expense  control. 
Management also believes such information is useful to investors in evaluating Company performance. 
(3)  2018, 2017, 2016 and 2015 ratios calculated under Basel III rules, which became effective January 1, 2015. 

-(cid:3)33 - 

 
 
 
   
 
 
     
 
 
         
         
         
   
         
         
   
         
         
   
         
         
 
GAAP to Non-GAAP Reconciliation 

  (In thousands, except per share data) 

Computation of ending tangible common equity: 
Common shareholders’ equity 
Less: goodwill and other intangible assets, net 
Tangible common equity 

Computation of ending tangible assets: 
Total assets 
Less: goodwill and other intangible assets, net 
Tangible assets 

2018 

At or for the year ended December 31, 
2016 

2015 

2017 

2014 

$ 378,965
76,173
$ 302,792

$ 363,848
74,703
$ 289,145

$ 302,714      $  276,504
66,946
$ 227,074      $  209,558

75,640         

$ 262,192
68,639
$ 193,553

$ 4,311,698
76,173
$ 4,235,525

$ 4,105,210
74,703
$ 4,030,507

$ 3,710,340      $ 3,381,024
66,946
$ 3,634,700      $ 3,314,078

75,640         

$ 3,089,521
68,639
$ 3,020,882

Tangible common equity to tangible assets (1) 

7.15%

7.17%

6.25 %     

6.32%

6.41%

Common shares outstanding 
Tangible common book value per share (2) 

15,929
19.01

15,925
18.16

14,538         
15.62      $ 

14,191
14.77

$

$

$

14,118
13.71

$

Computation of average tangible common equity: 
Average common equity 
Average goodwill and other intangible assets, net 
Average tangible common equity 

Computation of average tangible assets: 
Average assets 
Average goodwill and other intangible assets, net 
Average tangible assets 

$ 371,023
76,990
$ 294,033

$ 331,184
74,818
$ 256,366

$ 301,666      $  272,367
68,138
$ 225,496      $  204,229

76,170         

$ 254,533
57,039
$ 197,494

$ 4,171,972
76,990
$ 4,094,982

$ 3,896,071
74,818
$ 3,821,253

$ 3,547,105      $ 3,269,890
68,138
$ 3,470,935      $ 3,201,752

76,170         

$ 2,994,604
57,039
$ 2,937,565

Net income available to common shareholders 
Return on average tangible common equity (3) 
Return on average tangible assets (4) 

$

$

38,065
12.95%
0.93%

$

32,064
12.51%
0.84%

30,469      $ 
13.51 %     
0.88 %     

$

26,875
13.16%
0.84%

27,893
14.12%
0.95%

(1)  Tangible common equity divided by tangible assets. 
(2)  Tangible common equity divided by common shares outstanding. 
(3)  Net income available to common shareholders divided by average tangible common equity. 
(4)  Net income available to common shareholders divided by average tangible assets. 

This table contains disclosure that includes calculations for tangible common equity, tangible assets, tangible common equity to tangible 
assets, tangible common book value per share, average tangible common equity, average tangible assets, return on average tangible 
common equity and return on average tangible assets, which are determined by methods other than in accordance with GAAP. We 
believe that these non-GAAP measures are useful to our investors as measures of the strength of our capital and ability to generate 
earnings on tangible common equity invested by our shareholders. These non-GAAP measures provide supplemental information that 
may help investors to analyze our capital position without regard to the effects of intangible assets. Non-GAAP financial measures have 
inherent limitations and are not uniformly utilized by issuers. Therefore, these non-GAAP financial measures should not be considered 
in isolation, or as a substitute for comparable measures prepared in accordance with GAAP. 

-(cid:3)34 - 

 
 
 
   
 
 
     
 
 
         
   
         
         
   
         
   
         
   
         
         
   
         
         
   
         
 
SELECTED QUARTERLY DATA 

  (Dollars in thousands, except per share data) 

2018 
Interest income 
Interest expense 
Net interest income 
Provision for loan losses 
Net interest income after provision for loan losses 
Noninterest income 
Noninterest expense 
Income before income taxes 
Income tax expense 
Net income 
Preferred stock dividends 
Net income applicable to common shareholders 

Earnings per common share (1): 

Basic 
Diluted 

Cash dividends declared per common share 

2017 
Interest income 
Interest expense 
Net interest income 
Provision for loan losses 
Net interest income after provision for loan losses 
Noninterest income 
Noninterest expense 
Income before income taxes 
Income tax expense 
Net income 
Preferred stock dividends 
Net income applicable to common shareholders 

Earnings per common share (1): 

Basic 
Diluted 

Cash dividends declared per common share 

Fourth 
Quarter 

Third 
Quarter 

Second 
      Quarter 

First 
Quarter 

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

41,125
9,096
32,029
3,884
28,145
9,348
27,803
9,690
2,199
7,491
365
7,126

0.45
0.45

$

$

$

$

39,117       $ 
8,214          
30,903          
2,061          
28,842          
9,816          
25,521          
13,137          
2,560          
10,577       $ 
365          
10,212       $ 

37,013
6,783
30,230
40
30,190
8,407
23,448
15,149
2,979
12,170
366
11,804

0.64       $ 
0.64          

0.74
0.74

$

$

$

$

0.24

$

0.24       $ 

0.24

$

34,767
5,007
29,760
3,946
25,814
8,987
23,163
11,638
580
11,058
365
10,693

0.68
0.68

$

$

$

$

33,396       $ 
4,958          
28,438          
2,802          
25,636          
8,574          
22,467          
11,743          
3,464          
8,279       $ 
366          
7,913       $ 

31,409
3,987
27,422
3,832
23,590
9,333
23,941
8,982
2,736
6,246
366
5,880

0.52       $ 
0.52          

0.40
0.40

$

$

$

$

0.22

$

0.21       $ 

0.21

$

35,477
5,775
29,702
2,949
26,753
8,907
24,104
11,556
2,268
9,288
365
8,923

0.56
0.56

0.24

30,538
3,543
26,995
2,781
24,214
7,836
20,942
11,108
3,165
7,943
365
7,578

0.52
0.52

0.21  

(1)  Earnings per share data is computed independently for each of the quarters presented. Therefore, the sum of the quarterly earnings 

per common share amounts may not equal the total for the year. 

-(cid:3)35 - 

 
 
 
     
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
   
         
   
 
 
   
 
   
          
          
   
          
   
          
 
 
 
          
 
 
 
   
          
          
   
          
 
2018 FOURTH QUARTER RESULTS 

Net income was $7.5 million for the fourth quarter of 2018 compared with $11.1 million for the fourth quarter of 2017. Results for the 
fourth quarter of 2018 were negatively impacted by a $2.4 million non-cash goodwill impairment charge related to the 2014 acquisition 
of SDN and $667 thousand of non-recurring expense incurred in connection with employee retirements and severance. Results for the 
fourth quarter of 2017 were positively impacted by a $2.9 million reduction in income tax expense due to the TCJ Act, primarily driven 
by a revaluation adjustment to the net deferred tax liability. After preferred dividends, net income available to common shareholders for 
the fourth quarter of 2018 was $7.1 million or $0.45 per diluted share, compared to $10.7 million or $0.68 per share in the fourth quarter 
of 2017. 

Net interest income was $32.0 million for the fourth quarter of 2018 compared with $29.8 million for the fourth quarter of 2017. The 
increase was primarily related to an increase in average interest-earning assets of $265.3 million, led by a $376.9 million increase in 
loans. 

The provision for loan losses was $3.9 million for the fourth quarter of 2018 compared with $3.9 million for the fourth quarter of 2017. 
Net charge-offs for the fourth quarter of 2018 were $3.9 million, or 0.51% annualized, of average loans, compared to $3.6 million, or 
0.54% annualized, of average loans in the fourth quarter of 2017. 
Noninterest income was $9.3 million for the fourth quarter of 2018 compared to $9.0 million in the fourth quarter of 2017. 

Noninterest  expense was  $27.8 million for  the fourth  quarter of  2018  compared  to $23.2 million  in  the fourth  quarter of  2017. The 
increase was the result of higher salaries and employee benefits related to investments in bank personnel, the 2018 acquisition of HNP 
Capital and $667 thousand of non-recurring expense incurred in connection with employee retirements and severance; higher occupancy 
and  equipment  expense  related  to  higher  software,  rent  and  maintenance  expense;  and  the  recognition  of  a  $2.4  million  non-cash 
goodwill impairment charge related to SDN. 

Income  tax  expense  was  $2.2  million  in  the  fourth  quarter  of  2018,  representing  an  effective  tax  rate  of  22.7%,  compared  to  $580 
thousand in the fourth quarter of 2017, representing an effective tax rate of 5.0%. The fourth quarter of 2018 effective tax rate was 
negatively impacted by the SDN goodwill impairment charge, which is not a tax-deductible expense. Fourth quarter of 2017 expense and 
effective tax rate were positively impacted by a $2.9 million reduction in expense due to the TCJ Act, primarily driven by a revaluation 
adjustment to the net deferred tax liability. Effective tax rates are impacted by items of income and expense that are not subject to federal 
or state taxation. Our effective tax rates differ from the statutory rates primarily due to the effect of interest income from tax-exempt 
securities,  earnings  on  company  owned  life  insurance,  the  non-cash  fair  value  adjustment  of  the  contingent  consideration  liability 
associated with the SDN acquisition, the 2018 and 2017 non-cash goodwill impairment charges related to SDN and, in 2017, the net 
impact of the TCJ Act, as described above. 

-(cid:3)36 - 

 
 
ITEM 7.    MANAGEMENT’S  DISCUSSION  AND  ANALYSIS  OF  FINANCIAL  CONDITION  AND  RESULTS  OF 
OPERATIONS 

The following is a discussion and analysis of our financial position and results of operations and should be read in conjunction with the 
information set forth under Part I, Item 1A, “Risks Factors,” and our consolidated financial statements and notes thereto appearing 
under Part II, Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. 

INTRODUCTION 

Financial Institutions, Inc. (the “Parent” and together with all its subsidiaries, “we,” “our,” or “us”), is a financial holding company 
headquartered in New York State. We offer a broad array of deposit, lending, and other financial services to individuals, municipalities 
and businesses in Western and Central New York through our wholly-owned New York-chartered banking subsidiary, Five Star Bank 
(the “Bank”). Our indirect lending network includes relationships with franchised automobile dealers in Western and Central New York, 
the  Capital  District  of  New  York  and  Northern  and  Central  Pennsylvania.  We  offer  insurance  services  through  our  wholly-owned 
subsidiary, SDN Insurance Agency, LLC (formerly Scott Danahy Naylon, LLC) (“SDN”), a full-service insurance agency. In addition, 
we  offer  customized  investment  advice,  wealth  management,  investment  consulting  and  retirement  plan  services  through  our 
wholly-owned  subsidiaries  Courier  Capital,  LLC  (“Courier  Capital”)  and  HNP  Capital,  LLC  (“HNP  Capital”),  SEC-registered 
investment advisory and wealth management firms. 

Our primary sources of revenue are net interest income (interest earned on our loans and securities, net of interest paid on deposits and 
other funding sources) and noninterest income, particularly fees and other revenue from insurance, investment advisory and financial 
services provided to customers or ancillary services tied to loans and deposits. Business volumes and pricing drive revenue potential, and 
tend to be influenced by overall economic factors, including market interest rates, business spending, consumer confidence, economic 
growth, and competitive conditions within the marketplace. We are not able to predict market interest rate fluctuations with certainty and 
our asset/liability management strategy may not prevent interest rate changes from having a material adverse effect on our results of 
operations and financial condition. 

EXECUTIVE OVERVIEW 
2018 Financial Performance Review 

During 2018 we continued to execute on our growth and diversification strategy and progressed in growing our core banking franchise. 
We delivered year-over-year increases in both total loans and total deposits of 13% and 5%, respectively, which drove our revenue 
higher. We acquired HNP Capital, a Rochester-based investment advisory firm, furthering our strategy to increase fee-based noninterest 
income. We also made progress on our initiative to reposition the balance sheet by deploying marketable securities into loans, funding 
approximately $143 million of loans with investment security maturities, sales and payment proceeds. 

Net income for 2018 was $39.5 million, compared to $33.5 million for 2017. This resulted in a 0.95% return on average assets and a 
10.18% return on average equity. Net income available to common shareholders was $38.1 million or $2.39 per diluted share for 2018, 
compared to $32.1 million or $2.13 per diluted share for 2017. We declared cash dividends of $0.96 during 2018, an increase of $0.11 
per common share or 13% compared to the prior year. 

Fully-taxable equivalent net interest income was $124.2 million in 2018, an increase of $8.4 million, or 7%, compared to 2017. This 
reflected the impact of 8% growth in average interest-earning assets, partially offset by a three-basis point decline in the net interest 
margin to 3.18%. 

The provision for loan losses decreased $4.4 million, or 33%, from 2017 as our allowance for loan losses reflects the release of reserves 
due to favorable asset quality trends and qualitative factors. Net charge-offs increased $69 thousand from the prior year to $9.7 million in 
2018.  Net  charge-offs  were  an  annualized  0.33%  of  average  loans  in  the  current  year  compared  to  0.38%  in  2017.  In  addition, 
non-performing loans decreased $5.4 million compared to a year ago to $7.1 million, or 0.23% of total loans. 

-(cid:3)37 - 

 
 
 
 
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS 

Noninterest income totaled $36.5 million for the full year 2018, an increase of $1.7 million or 5% when compared to the prior year. 
Investment advisory income increased by $2.0 million to $8.1 million during the current year reflecting higher assets under management 
driven by the acquisition of HNP Capital. Income from investments in limited partnerships increased to $1.2 million in 2018 from $110 
thousand  in  the  prior  year.  Income  from  these  investments  fluctuates  based  on  the  maturity  and  performance  of  the  underlying 
investments. Income from derivative instruments, net increased to $972 thousand in 2018 from $131 thousand in the prior year. Income 
from derivative instruments, net primarily consists of income associated with interest rate swap products offered to commercial loan 
customers and is based on the number and value of transactions executed. The Bank implemented this program in the third quarter of 
2017. In addition, the net gain (loss) on investment securities was a loss of $127 thousand in 2018, compared to a gain of $1.3 million in 
2017.  During  2017,  we  recognized  a  non-cash  fair  value  adjustment  of  the  contingent  consideration  liability  related  to  the  SDN 
acquisition that resulted in noninterest income of $1.2 million. The fair value of the contingent consideration liability was recorded at the 
time of the SDN acquisition as a component of the purchase price. 

Noninterest expense for the full year 2018 totaled $100.9 million, a $10.4 million increase compared to $90.5 million in the prior year. 
Salaries and benefits expense increased $6.0 million year-over-year, primarily as a result of investments in bank personnel, the 2018 
acquisition of HNP Capital, compensation to employees not covered by existing incentive programs, and nonrecurring expense incurred 
in  connection  with  employee  retirements  and  severance.  Also  contributing  to  the  increase  were  higher  occupancy  and  equipment 
expense, higher advertising and promotions expense and a higher goodwill impairment charge related to SDN. 

Income tax expense for the year was $10.0 million, representing an effective tax rate of 20.2% compared to an effective tax rate of 22.9% 
in 2017. Lower corporate tax rates were in effect for 2018 as a result of the TCJ Act. Effective tax rates are impacted by items of income 
and expense not subject to federal or state taxation. The Company’s effective tax rates differ from statutory rates primarily because of 
interest  income  from  tax-exempt  securities,  earnings  on  company  owned  life  insurance,  the  non-cash  fair  value  adjustment  of  the 
contingent consideration liability associated with the SDN acquisition and non-cash goodwill impairment charges related to SDN and 
the impact of the TCJ Act as described previously. 

Total assets were $4.31 billion at December 31, 2018, up $206.5 million from $4.11 billion at December 31, 2017. The increase was 
largely the result of loan growth funded by deposit growth and proceeds from investment securities. Total loans were $3.09 billion at 
December 31, 2018, up $351.6 million, or 13%, from December 31, 2017. 

(cid:120)(cid:3) Commercial mortgage loans totaled $958.2 million, an increase of $149.3 million, or 19%, from December 31, 2017. 
(cid:120)(cid:3) Commercial business loans totaled $557.9 million, an increase of $107.5 million, or 24%, from December 31, 2017. 
(cid:120)(cid:3) Residential real estate loans totaled $524.2 million, an increase of $58.9 million, or 13%, from December 31, 2017. 
(cid:120)(cid:3) Consumer indirect loans totaled $919.9 million, an increase of $43.3 million, or 5%, from December 31, 2017. 

Total deposits were $3.37 billion at December 31, 2018, an increase of $156.7 million from December 31, 2017, which was primarily 
the  result  of  successful  business  development  efforts.  Short-term  borrowings  were  $469.5 million  at  December 31,  2018,  up 
$23.3 million from December 31, 2017. 

Shareholders’  equity  was  $396.3 million  at  December 31,  2018,  compared  to  $381.2 million  at  December 31,  2017.  Common  book 
value per share was $23.79 at December 31, 2018, an increase of $0.94 or 4% from $22.85 at December 31, 2017. The increase in 
shareholders’  equity  as  compared  to  December 31,  2017,  is  attributable  to  net  income  less  dividends  paid,  net  of  the  change  in 
accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). 

The Company’s leverage ratio was 8.16% at December 31, 2018 compared to 8.13% at December 31, 2017. The Bank’s leverage ratio 
and  total  risk-based  capital  ratio  were  8.86%  and  12.10%,  respectively,  at  December 31,  2018,  compared  to  8.75%  and  12.73, 
respectively at December 31, 2017. 

-(cid:3)38 - 

 
 
 
 
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS 

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS FOR THE YEARS ENDED 
DECEMBER 31, 2018 AND DECEMBER 31, 2017 
Net Interest Income and Net Interest Margin 

Net interest income is our primary source of revenue. Net interest income is the difference between interest income on interest-earning 
assets, such as loans and investment securities, and interest expense on interest-bearing deposits and other borrowings used to fund 
interest-earning  and  other  assets  or  activities.  Net  interest  income  is  affected  by  changes  in  interest  rates  and  by  the  amount  and 
composition of earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities, as well as the sensitivity of the balance sheet to changes in interest rates, 
including  characteristics  such  as  the  fixed  or  variable  nature  of  the  financial  instruments,  contractual  maturities  and  repricing 
frequencies. 

We use interest rate spread and net interest margin to measure and explain changes in net interest income. Interest rate spread is the 
difference between the yield on earning assets and the rate paid for interest-bearing liabilities that fund those assets. The net interest 
margin is expressed as the percentage of net interest income to average earning assets. The net interest margin exceeds the interest rate 
spread  because  noninterest-bearing  sources  of  funds  (“net  free  funds”),  principally  noninterest-bearing  demand  deposits  and 
shareholders’  equity,  also  support  earning  assets.  To  compare  tax-exempt  asset  yields  to  taxable  yields,  the  yield  on  tax-exempt 
investment securities is computed on a taxable equivalent basis. Net interest income, interest rate spread, and net interest margin are 
discussed on a taxable equivalent basis. 

The Federal Reserve influences the general market rates of interest, which impacts the deposit and loan rates offered by many financial 
institutions. The intended federal funds rate, which is the cost of immediately available overnight funds, was increased by 25 basis points 
in each of March, June, September and December 2018, resulting in a range of 2.25% to 2.50% at year-end 2018. The Federal Reserve 
had previously increased the intended federal funds rate by 25 basis points in each of March, June and December 2017, resulting in a 
range of 1.25% to 1.50% at year-end 2017 and by 25 basis points to a range of 0.50% to 0.75% in December 2016. Our loan portfolio is 
significantly affected by changes in the prime interest rate and changes in the prime interest rate generally follow changes in the federal 
funds rate. The prime interest rate, which is the rate offered on loans to borrowers with strong credit, increased to 5.50% in December 
2018, reflecting the four 25 basis point increases in 2018, after the previous three 25 basis point increases in 2017 to 4.50% and 25 basis 
point increase to 3.75% in December 2016. 

Net Interest Income and Net Interest Margin 

The following table reconciles interest income per the consolidated statements of income to interest income adjusted to a fully taxable 
equivalent basis for the years ended December 31 (in thousands): 

(cid:3)  

Interest income per consolidated statements of income
Adjustment to fully taxable equivalent basis (1) 
Interest income adjusted to a fully taxable equivalent basis
Interest expense per consolidated statements of income
Net interest income on a taxable equivalent basis 

2018 

2017 

2016 

$

$

152,732
1,353
154,085
29,868
124,217

 $ 

 $ 

130,110
3,160
133,270
17,495
115,775

$

$

115,231
3,172
118,403
12,541
105,862  

(1)(cid:3) Adjustment calculated on a tax equivalent basis assuming a Federal tax rate of 21%, 35% and 35% for the years ended December 31, 

2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively. 

Net interest income on a taxable equivalent basis for 2018 increased $8.4 million or 7%, compared to 2017. The increase was due to an 
increase  in  average  interest-earning  assets  of  $295.7 million  or  8%  compared  to  2017.  The  net  interest  margin  of  3.18%  for  2018 
declined three-basis points compared to 3.21% in 2017. This decrease was a function of a 12-basis point decrease in interest rate spread 
to 2.96% during 2018, partially offset by a nine-basis point higher contribution from net free funds. The lower interest rate spread was a 
net result of a 25-basis point increase in the yield on earning assets and a 37-basis point increase in the cost of interest-bearing liabilities. 

For the year ended December 31, 2018, the yield on average earning assets of 3.94% was 25-basis points higher than 2017. Loan yields 
increased 29-basis points during 2018 to 4.51%. The yield on investment securities decreased 15-basis points during 2018 to 2.33%. 
Overall, the earning asset rate changes increased interest income by $5.9 million during 2018 and a favorable volume variance increased 
interest income by $14.9 million, which collectively drove a $20.8 million increase in interest income. 

-(cid:3)39 - 

 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
    
    
    
 
 
 
 
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS 

Average interest-earning assets were $3.91 billion for 2018, an increase of $295.7 million or 8% from the prior year, with average loans 
up $379.6 million and average federal funds sold and other interest-earning deposits up $17.8 million, partially offset by a decrease in 
average securities of $101.7 million. Average loans were $2.90 billion for 2018, an increase of $379.6 million or 15% from the prior 
year. The growth in average loans reflected increases in most loan categories, which in turn reflects the impact of our growth strategy, 
with commercial loans up $250.9 million, residential real estate loans up $53.6 million, and consumer loans up $81.0 million, partially 
offset by a $5.9 million decrease in residential real estate lines. Loans comprised 74.2% of average interest-earning assets during 2018 
compared to 69.7% during 2017. Loans generally have significantly higher yields compared to securities and federal funds sold and 
interest-bearing deposits and, as such, have a more positive effect on the net interest margin. The yield on average loans was 4.51% for 
2018, an increase of 29-basis points compared to 4.22% for 2017. The increase in the volume of average loans resulted in a $17.1 million 
increase in interest income, in addition to a $7.3 million increase due to the favorable rate variance. Average securities were $984.6 
million for 2018, a decrease of $101.7 million or 9% from the prior year. Securities comprised 25.2% of average interest-earning assets 
in 2018 compared to 30.1% in 2017. The taxable equivalent yield on average securities was 2.33% in 2018 compared to 2.48% in 2017. 
The decrease in the volume of average securities resulted in a $2.5 million decrease in interest income, in addition to a $1.4 million 
decrease due to the unfavorable rate variance. 

For the year ended December 31, 2018, the cost of average interest-bearing liabilities of 0.98% was 37-basis points higher than 2017. 
The cost of average interest-bearing deposits increased 28-basis points to 0.73%, the cost of short-term borrowings increased 95-basis 
points to 2.11% and the cost of long-term borrowings decreased one-basis point to 6.31%. Overall, interest-bearing liability rate and 
volume increases resulted in $12.4 million of higher interest expense. 

Average interest-bearing liabilities of $3.04 billion in 2018 were $192.9 million or 7% higher than 2017. On average, interest-bearing 
deposits  grew  $136.6 million,  while  noninterest-bearing  demand  deposits  (a  principal  component  of  net  free  funds)  were  up 
$38.3 million. The increase in average deposits was due to successful business development efforts. Overall, interest-bearing deposit 
rate and volume changes resulted in $8.0 million of higher interest expense during 2018. Average short-term and long-term borrowings 
were  $433.8 million  in  2018,  $56.4 million  higher  than  in  2017.  Overall,  short  and  long-term  borrowing  rate  and  volume  changes 
resulted in $4.4 million of higher interest expense during 2018. 

-(cid:3)40 - 

 
 
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS 

The following tables present, for the periods indicated, information regarding: (i) the average balance sheet; (ii) the amount of interest 
income from interest-earning assets and the resulting annualized yields (tax-exempt yields have been adjusted to a tax-equivalent basis 
using the applicable Federal tax rate in each year); (iii) the amount of interest expense on interest-bearing liabilities and the resulting 
annualized rates; (iv) net interest income; (v) net interest rate spread; (vi) net interest income as a percentage of average interest-earning 
assets  (“net  interest  margin”);  and  (vii) the ratio of  average  interest-earning  assets  to  average  interest-bearing  liabilities. Investment 
securities  are  at  amortized  cost  for  both  held  to  maturity  and  available  for  sale  securities.  Loans  include  net  unearned  income,  net 
deferred loan fees and costs and non-accruing loans. Dollar amounts are shown in thousands. 

(cid:3)  

2018 

Years ended December 31, 
2017 

2016 

Average 
Balance(cid:3)       Interest   

Average
Rate

Average 
Balance    

Interest   

Average 
Rate(cid:3)

Average 
Balance(cid:3)    

Interest   

Average
Rate

Interest-earning assets: 
Federal funds sold and 
      other interest-earning deposits(cid:3)
Investment securities: 

Taxable 
Tax-exempt 

Total investment securities 

Loans: 

Commercial business 
Commercial mortgage 
Residential real estate loans 
Residential real estate lines 
Consumer indirect 
Other consumer 
Total loans 

Total interest-earning assets 

Less: Allowance for loan losses 
Other noninterest-earning assets 
Total assets 

Interest-bearing liabilities: 
Deposits: 

Interest-bearing demand 
Savings and money market 
Time deposits 

Total interest-bearing deposits 

Short-term borrowings 
Long-term borrowings 
Total borrowings 

Total interest-bearing liabilities 

Noninterest-bearing demand deposits 
Other noninterest-bearing liabilities 
Shareholders’ equity 
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity 

 $ 

24,906    

 $ 

428

1.72% $

7,060

$

73

1.04 %   $ 

3,116     $

18

0.56%

     724,944    
     259,609    
     984,553    

     16,510
6,444
     22,954

     24,836
     43,580
     18,645
5,320
     36,268
2,054
     130,703
     154,085

1,067
2,887
     15,101
     19,055
8,342
2,471
     10,813
     29,868

     498,552    
     876,484    
     492,165    
     112,872    
     901,066    
16,682    
    2,897,821    
    3,907,280    
(35,312 ) 
     300,004    
 $ 4,171,972    

 $  665,255    
    1,008,665    
     936,157    
    2,610,077    
     394,679    
39,165    
     433,844    
    3,043,921    
     713,152    
26,548    
     388,351    
 $ 4,171,972    

17,886
9,029
26,915

17,400
34,019
16,409
4,838
31,551
2,065
106,282
133,270

897
1,487
8,709
11,093
3,931
2,471
6,402
17,495

2.28
2.48
2.33

4.98
4.97
3.79
4.71
4.03
12.31
4.51
3.94

0.16
0.29
1.61
0.73
2.11
6.31
2.49
0.98

788,923
297,377
1,086,300

396,319
727,849
438,586
118,797
819,598
17,111
2,518,260
3,611,620
(32,821)
317,272
$3,896,071

$ 638,295
1,033,836
801,394
2,473,525
338,392
39,094
377,486
2,851,011
674,884
21,656
348,520
$3,896,071

17,025
9,064
26,089

14,091
28,465
15,722
4,734
27,190
2,094
92,296
118,403

833
1,339
6,286
8,458
1,612
2,471
4,083
12,541

2.22
3.06
2.45

4.19
4.60
3.89
3.80
3.86
11.89
4.18
3.62

0.14
0.13
0.90
0.37
0.65
6.33
1.42
0.49

2.27    
3.04    
2.48    

      767,371    
      295,850    
     1,063,221    

4.39    
4.67    
3.74    
4.07    
3.85    
12.07    
4.22    
3.69    

0.14    
0.14    
1.09    
0.45    
1.16    
6.32    
1.70    
0.61    

      336,633    
      618,436    
      404,456    
      124,635    
      703,975    
17,620    
     2,205,755    
     3,272,092    
(28,791 ) 
      303,804    
  $ 3,547,105    

  $  576,046    
     1,010,510    
      697,654    
     2,284,210    
      248,938    
39,023    
      287,961    
     2,572,171    
      633,416    
22,512    
      319,006    
  $ 3,547,105    

Net interest income (tax-equivalent) 

 $  124,217

$ 115,775

     $ 105,862

Interest rate spread 

Net earning assets 

Net interest margin (tax-equivalent) 
Ratio of average interest-earning assets to 
average interest-bearing liabilities 

 $  863,359    

2.96%

3.18%

$ 760,609

3.08 %      

  $  699,921    

3.21 %      

3.13%

3.24%

128.36 %       

126.68%

127.21 %

The net interest spread, as well as the net interest margin, will be impacted by future changes in short-term and long-term interest rate 
levels, as well as the impact from the competitive environment. A discussion of the effects of changing interest rates on net interest 
income is set forth in Part II, Item 7A, “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk” included elsewhere in this report. 

-(cid:3)41 - 

 
 
 
 
   
   
 
   
     
   
   
 
   
     
   
    
    
    
    
     
    
    
    
    
    
     
    
    
    
    
    
    
     
    
    
    
    
     
    
    
    
     
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
     
    
    
    
    
    
     
    
    
    
    
    
    
     
    
    
    
    
    
     
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
     
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
      
           
 
 
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS 

Rate /Volume Analysis 

The following table presents, on a tax-equivalent basis, the relative contribution of changes in volumes and changes in rates to changes in 
net interest income for the periods indicated. The change in interest income or interest expense not solely due to changes in volume or 
rate has been allocated in proportion to the absolute dollar amounts of the change in each (in thousands): 

(cid:3)  

Increase (decrease) in: 
Interest income: 
Federal funds sold and interest-earning deposits 
Investment securities: 

Taxable 
Tax-exempt 

Total investment securities 

Loans: 

Commercial business 
Commercial mortgage 
Residential real estate loans 
Residential real estate lines 
Consumer indirect 
Other consumer 
Total loans 
Total interest income 

Interest expense: 
Deposits: 

Interest-bearing demand 
Savings and money market 
Time deposits 

Total interest-bearing deposits 

Short-term borrowings 
Long-term borrowings 

Total borrowings 
Total interest expense 
Net interest income 

Provision for Loan Losses 

Change from 2017 to 2018 
Rate 

Volume   

Total 

Change from 2016 to 2017 

  Volume       Rate 

Total 

$

282

$

73

$

355

$

34      $ 

21

$

55

(1,457)
(1,061)
(2,518)

4,885
7,285
2,028
(250)
3,234
(53)
17,129
14,893 

81
(1,524)
(1,443)

2,551
2,276
208
732
1,483
42
7,292
5,922 

(1,376)
(2,585)
(3,961)

7,436
9,561
2,236
482
4,717
(11)
24,421
20,815 

484         
47         
531         

2,594         
5,108         
1,292         
(228 )      
4,451         
(61 )      
13,156         
13,721        

377
(82)
295

715
446
(605)
332
(90)
32
830
1,146 

39
(37)
1,648
1,650
744
4
748
2,398 
12,495  $

131
1,437
4,744
6,312
3,667
(4)
3,663
9,975 
(4,053) $

170
1,400
6,392
7,962
4,411
-
4,411
12,373 
8,442  $

88         
32         
1,015         
1,135         
722         
4         
726         
1,861        
11,860     $ 

(24)
116
1,408
1,500
1,597
(4)
1,593
3,093 
(1,947) $

$

861
(35)
826

3,309
5,554
687
104
4,361
(29)
13,986
14,867 

64
148
2,423
2,635
2,319
-
2,319
4,954 
9,913  

The provision for loan losses is based upon credit loss experience, growth or contraction of specific segments of the loan portfolio, and 
the  estimate  of  losses  inherent  in  the  current  loan  portfolio.  The  provision  for  loan  losses  was  $8.9 million  for  the  year  ended 
December 31, 2018 compared with $13.4 million for 2017. The decrease in provision is the result of a combination of factors including 
favorable asset quality trends and improved qualitative factors which include but are not limited to: national and local economic trends 
and conditions, concentrations of credit, the regulatory environment and trends in volume and terms of loans. 

See  the  “Allowance  for  Loan  Losses”  and  “Non-Performing  Assets  and  Potential  Problem  Loans”  sections  of  this  Management’s 
Discussion and Analysis for further discussion. 

-(cid:3)42 - 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
         
         
         
 
 
 
 
 
         
         
 
 
 
 
 
 
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS 

Noninterest Income 
The following table summarizes our noninterest income for the years ended December 31 (in thousands): 

(cid:3)  

2018 

2017 

2016 

Service charges on deposits 
Insurance income 
ATM and debit card 
Investment advisory 
Company owned life insurance 
Investments in limited partnerships 
Loan servicing 
Income from derivative instruments, net 
Net gain on sale of loans held for sale 
Net (loss) gain on investment securities 
Net gain on other assets 
Contingent consideration liability adjustment 
Other 

Total noninterest income 

$

$

7,120
4,930
6,152
8,123
1,793
1,203
441
972
796
(127)
50
-
5,025
36,478

 $ 

 $ 

7,391
5,266
5,721
6,104
1,781
110
439
131
376
1,260
37
1,200
4,914
34,730

$

$

7,280
5,396
5,687
5,208
2,808
300
436
-
240
2,695
313
1,170
4,227
35,760  

Insurance income decreased by $336 thousand, or 6%, to $4.9 million during 2018. The decrease was primarily a result of the loss of the 
agency’s only carrier for one of its specialty lines of business in 2018.    This negative impact was partially offset by new commercial and 
personal lines business generated as a result of successful business development efforts and integration with the Bank. 

Investment  advisory  income  increased  to  $8.1 million  in  2018,  compared  to  $6.1 million  in  2017,  reflecting  higher  assets  under 
management driven by the acquisition of HNP Capital in the second quarter of 2018 and growth in assets under management at Courier 
Capital following the acquisition of the assets of Robshaw & Julian in the third quarter of 2017. 

We have made investments in limited partnerships, primarily small business investment companies, and account for these investments 
under the equity method. The income from these equity method investments fluctuates based on the maturity and performance of the 
underlying investments. 

Income from derivative instruments, net primarily consists of income associated with interest rate swap products offered to commercial 
loan  customers.  The  program  was  implemented  in  the  third  quarter  of  2017.  For  the  year  ended  December  31,  2018,  income  from 
derivative instruments, net increased $841 thousand to $972 thousand compared to $131 thousand during the year ended December 31, 
2017, as a result of an increase in the number and value of transactions executed in 2018. 

During  the  year  ended  December 31,  2018,  we  recognized  net  losses of  $127  thousand  from  the  sale  of  available  for  sale  (“AFS”) 
securities with an amortized cost totaling $30.0 million. The securities sold were comprised of seven agency securities and 21 mortgage 
backed securities. During the year ended December 31, 2017, we recognized net gains of $1.3 million from the sale of AFS securities 
with an amortized cost totaling $48.8 million. The securities sold were comprised of 11 agency securities, six mortgage backed securities 
and one asset backed security. The amount and timing of our sale of investment securities is dependent on a number of factors, including 
our prudent efforts to realize gains while managing duration, premium and credit risk. 

For the year ended December 31, 2017, we recognized a $1.2 million non-cash fair value adjustment of the contingent consideration 
liability related to the 2014 acquisition of SDN. For additional discussion related to the 2017 fair value adjustment of the contingent 
consideration liability see Note 7, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, of the notes to consolidated financial statements. 

-(cid:3)43 - 

 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
 
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS 

Noninterest Expense 

The following table summarizes our noninterest expense for the years ended December 31 (in thousands): 

(cid:3)  
Salaries and employee benefits 
Occupancy and equipment 
Professional services 
Computer and data processing 
Supplies and postage 
FDIC assessments 
Advertising and promotions 
Amortization of intangibles 
Goodwill impairment 
Other 

Total noninterest expense 

2018 

2017 

2016 

$

$

54,643      $ 
17,338         
3,912         
5,122         
2,032         
1,975         
3,582         
1,257         
2,350         
8,665         
100,876      $ 

48,675
16,293
4,083
4,935
2,003
1,817
2,171
1,170
1,575
7,791
90,513

$

$

45,215
14,529
5,782
4,451
2,047
1,735
2,097
1,249
-
7,566
84,671  

Salaries and employee benefits increased by $6.0 million, or 12%, when comparing 2018 to 2017. The increase was primarily due to 
investments in Bank personnel, the acquisition of the assets of Robshaw & Julian in the third quarter of 2017, the acquisition of HNP 
Capital  in  the  second  quarter  of  2018,  compensation  to  employees  not  covered  by  existing  incentive  programs  and  $1.5  million  of 
non-recurring expense incurred in connection with employee retirements and severance. 

Occupancy and equipment increased by $1.0 million, or 6%, when comparing 2018 to 2017, primarily as a result of investments in 
software and facilities. 

Advertising and promotions expense increased $1.4 million, or 65%, when comparing 2018 to 2017, as a result of the new Five Star 
Bank brand campaign launched in February 2018. 

We recognized goodwill impairments of $2.4 million in the fourth quarter of 2018 and $1.6 million in the second quarter of 2017, both 
related to the 2014 acquisition of SDN. For additional discussion related to the goodwill impairment see Note 7, Goodwill and Other 
Intangible Assets, of the notes to consolidated financial statements. 

The efficiency ratio for the year ended December 31, 2018 was 62.73% compared with 60.65% for 2017. The higher efficiency ratio is 
primarily a result of higher noninterest expenses associated with our organic growth initiatives. The efficiency ratio provides a ratio of 
operating expenses to operating income. The efficiency ratio is calculated by dividing total noninterest expense by net revenue, defined 
as the sum of tax-equivalent net interest income and noninterest income before net gains on investment securities. An increase in the 
efficiency ratio indicates that more resources are being utilized to generate the same volume of income, while a decrease indicates a more 
efficient allocation of resources. The efficiency ratio, a banking industry financial measure, is not required by GAAP. However, the 
efficiency ratio is used by management in its assessment of financial performance specifically as it relates to noninterest expense control. 
Management also believes such information is useful to investors in evaluating Company performance. 

Income Taxes 

We recorded income tax expense of $10.0 million for 2018, compared to $9.9 million for 2017. Our effective tax rate was 20.2% for 
2018 compared to 22.9% for 2017. The lower effective tax rate in 2018 was primarily a result of the TCJ Act. Effective tax rates are 
impacted by items of income and expense that are not subject to federal or state taxation. Our effective tax rates differ from statutory 
rates primarily due to the effect of interest income from tax-exempt securities, earnings on company owned life insurance, the 2017 
non-cash fair value adjustment of the contingent consideration liability associated with the SDN acquisition, the 2018 and 2017 non-cash 
goodwill impairment charge related to SDN and, in 2017, the net impact of the TCJ Act. In addition, our effective tax rate for 2018 and 
2017 reflects the New York State tax benefit generated by our real estate investment trust. 

-(cid:3)44 - 

 
 
 
 
       
 
 
 
 
 
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS 

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS FOR THE YEARS ENDED 
DECEMBER 31, 2017 AND DECEMBER 31, 2016 
Net Interest Income and Net Interest Margin 

Net interest income was $112.6 million in 2017, compared to $102.7 million in 2016. The taxable equivalent adjustments of $3.2 million 
for 2017 and 2016 resulted in fully taxable equivalent net interest income of $115.8 million in 2017 and $105.9 million in 2016. 

Net interest income on a taxable equivalent basis for 2017 increased $9.9 million or 9%, compared to 2016. The increase was due to an 
increase  in  average  interest-earning  assets  of $339.5 million or 10%  compared  to  2016.  The  net  interest  margin  of  3.21% for 2017 
declined three-basis points compared to 3.24% in 2016. This decrease was a function of a five-basis point decrease in interest rate spread 
to 3.08% during 2017, partially offset by a two-basis point higher contribution from net free funds. The lower interest rate spread was a 
net  result of  a seven-basis point  increase  in  the  yield on  earning  assets  and  a 12-basis point  increase in  the  cost of  interest-bearing 
liabilities. 

For the year ended December 31, 2017, the yield on average earning assets of 3.69% was seven-basis points higher than 2016. Loan 
yields increased four-basis points during 2017 to 4.22%. The yield on investment securities increased three-basis points during 2017 to 
2.48%. Overall, the earning asset rate changes increased interest income by $1.2 million during 2017 and a favorable volume variance 
increased interest income by $13.7 million, which collectively drove a $14.9 million increase in interest income. 

Average interest-earning assets were $3.61 billion for 2017, an increase of $339.5 million or 10% from the prior year, with average loans 
up  $312.5 million,  average  securities  up  $23.1 million  and  average  federal  funds  sold  and  other  interest-earning  deposits  up 
$3.9 million.  Average  loans  were  $2.52 billion  for  2017,  an  increase  of  $312.5 million  or  14%  from  the  prior  year.  The  growth  in 
average loans reflected increases in most loan categories, which in turn reflects the impact of our growth strategy, with commercial loans 
up $169.1 million, residential real estate loans up $34.1 million, and consumer loans up $115.1 million, partially offset by a $5.8 million 
decrease  in  residential  real  estate  lines.  Loans  comprised  69.7%  of  average  interest-earning  assets  during  2017  compared  to  67.4% 
during 2016. Loans generally have significantly higher yields compared to securities and federal funds sold and interest-bearing deposits 
and, as such, have a more positive effect on the net interest margin. The yield on average loans was 4.22% for 2017, an increase of four 
basis points compared to 4.18% for 2016. The increase in the volume of average loans resulted in a $13.2 million increase in interest 
income, in addition to a $830 thousand increase due to the favorable rate variance. Average securities were $1.09 billion for 2017, an 
increase of $23.1 million or 2% from the prior year. Securities comprised 30.1% of average interest-earning assets in 2017 compared to 
32.5% in 2016. The taxable equivalent yield on average securities was 2.48% in 2017 compared to 2.45% in 2016. The increase in the 
volume of average securities resulted in a $531 thousand increase in interest income, in addition to a $295 thousand increase due to the 
favorable rate variance. 

For the year ended December 31, 2017, the cost of average interest-bearing liabilities of 0.61% was 12-basis points higher than 2016. 
The cost of average interest-bearing deposits increased eight-basis points to 0.45%, the cost of short-term borrowings increased 51-basis 
points  to  1.16%  in  2017  compared  to  2016  and  the  cost  of  long-term  borrowings  decreased  one-basis  point  to  6.32%.  Overall, 
interest-bearing liability rate and volume increases resulted in $5.0 million of higher interest expense. 

Average interest-bearing liabilities of $2.85 billion in 2017 were $278.8 million or 11% higher than 2016. On average, interest-bearing 
deposits  grew  $189.3 million,  while  noninterest-bearing  demand  deposits  (a  principal  component  of  net  free  funds)  were  up 
$41.5 million. The increase in average deposits was due to successful business development efforts. Overall, interest-bearing deposit 
rate and volume changes resulted in $2.6 million of higher interest expense during 2017. Average short-term and long-term borrowings 
were  $377.5 million  in  2017,  $89.5 million  higher  than  in  2016.  Overall,  short  and  long-term  borrowing  rate  and  volume  changes 
resulted in $2.3 million of higher interest expense during 2017. 

Provision for Loan Losses 

The  provision  for  loan  losses  was  $13.4 million  for  the  year  ended  December 31,  2017  compared  with  $9.6 million  for  2016.  The 
increase was primarily the result of growth in the loan portfolios. 

Noninterest Income 

Insurance income decreased by $130 thousand, or 2%, to $5.3 million during 2017. The decrease was primarily the result of commercial 
account  non-renewals.  These  non-renewals  have  been  partially  replaced  with  several  new,  but  smaller,  commercial  and  personal 
accounts. 

Investment  advisory  income  increased  to  $6.1 million  in  2017,  compared  to  $5.2 million  in  2016,  reflecting  higher  assets  under 
management driven by the acquisition of the assets of Robshaw & Julian and favorable market conditions. 

-(cid:3)45 - 

 
 
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS 

Company  owned  life  insurance  decreased  by  $1.0 million  or  37%  in  2017.  The  decrease  was  primarily  due  to  $911 thousand  of 
non-recurring death benefit proceeds received by the Company in the first quarter of 2016. 

We have made investments in limited partnerships, primarily small business investment companies, and account for these investments 
under the equity method. Income from investments in limited partnerships was $110 thousand and $300 thousand for the years ended 
December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. The income from these equity method investments fluctuates based on the maturity and 
performance of the underlying investments. 

During the year ended December 31, 2017, we recognized net gains of $1.3 million from the sale of AFS securities with an amortized 
cost totaling $48.8 million. The securities sold were comprised of 11 agency securities, six mortgage backed securities and one asset 
backed security. During the year ended December 31, 2016, we recognized gains of $2.7 million from the sale of AFS securities with an 
amortized cost totaling $92.6 million. The securities sold were comprised of 25 agency securities and 22 mortgage backed securities. 
The amount and timing of net gains on investment securities is dependent on a number of factors, including our prudent efforts to realize 
gains while managing duration, premium and credit risk. 

For each of the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, we recognized a $1.2 million non-cash fair value adjustment of the contingent 
consideration  liability  related  to  the  SDN  acquisition.  For  additional  discussion  related  to  the  2017  fair  value  adjustment  of  the 
contingent consideration liability see Note 7, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, of the notes to consolidated financial statements. 

Noninterest Expense 

Salaries and employee benefits increased by $3.5 million or 8% when comparing 2017 to 2016. The increase was primarily due to our 
organic growth initiatives and higher healthcare costs largely attributable to the high cost of specialty pharmaceuticals. 

Occupancy and equipment increased by $1.8 million or 12% when comparing 2017 to 2016. The incremental expenses reflect the 2016 
and 2017 financial solution center openings and the relocation of our Rochester regional administration center. 

Professional services expense of $4.1 million in 2017 decreased $1.7 million or 29% from 2016. The decrease was primarily due to the 
Company’s 2016 proxy contest, which increased our need for professional services during that year. 

Computer and data processing increased by $484 thousand or 11% when comparing 2017 to 2016. We continue to invest in information 
technology to both maintain and improve our infrastructure. 

We  recognized  $1.6 million  of  goodwill  impairment  in  the  second  quarter  of  2017  related  to  the  SDN  acquisition.  For  additional 
discussion related to the goodwill impairment see Note 7, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, of the notes to consolidated financial 
statements. 

The efficiency ratio for the year ended December 31, 2017 was 60.65% compared with 60.95% for 2016.   

Income Taxes 

We recorded income tax expense of $9.9 million for 2017, compared to $12.2 million for 2016. Our effective tax rate was 22.9% for 
2017 compared to 27.7% for 2016. The decrease in income tax expense and lower effective tax rate was the result of an estimated 
$2.9 million reduction in income tax expense due to the TCJ Act, primarily driven by a revaluation adjustment to our net deferred tax 
liability. Effective tax rates are impacted by items of income and expense that are not subject to federal or state taxation. Our effective 
tax rates differ from the statutory rates primarily due to the effect of interest income from tax-exempt securities, earnings on company 
owned life insurance, the non-cash fair value adjustment of the contingent consideration liability associated with the SDN acquisition 
and the 2017 non-cash goodwill impairment charge related to SDN. 

-(cid:3)46 - 

 
 
 
 
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS 

ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION 
OVERVIEW 

At December 31, 2018, we had total assets of $4.31 billion, an increase of 5% from $4.11 billion as of December 31, 2017, largely 
attributable to organic loan growth. Net loans were $3.05 billion as of December 31, 2018, up $352.3 million or 13%, when compared to 
$2.70 billion  as  of  December 31,  2017.  The  increase  in  net  loans  was  primarily  attributable  to  organic  growth  in  the  commercial, 
residential  real  estate  loans  and  consumer  indirect  portfolios.  Non-performing  assets  totaled  $7.4 million  as  of  December 31,  2018, 
down  $5.3 million  from  a  year  ago.  Total  deposits  amounted  to  $3.37 billion  as  of  December 31,  2018,  up  $156.7 million  or  5%, 
compared to December 31, 2017. As of December 31, 2018, borrowed funds totaled $508.7 million, compared to $485.3 million as of 
December 31, 2017. Common book value per common share was $23.79 and $22.85 as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. 
As of December 31, 2018, our total shareholders’ equity was $396.3 million compared to $381.2 million a year earlier. 

INVESTING ACTIVITIES 
The following table summarizes the composition of our available for sale and held to maturity securities portfolios (in thousands). 

(cid:3)  

Securities available for sale: 
U.S. Government agency and government-sponsored enterprise 
securities 
Mortgage-backed securities: 

Agency mortgage-backed securities 
Non-Agency mortgage-backed securities 

Asset-backed securities 

Total available for sale securities 

Securities held to maturity: 
State and political subdivisions 
Mortgage-backed securities 

Total held to maturity securities 
Total investment securities 

Investment Securities Portfolio Composition 
At December 31,(cid:3)
2017 

2016

2018

Amortized
Cost

Fair 
Value

Amortized
Cost

Fair 
Value(cid:3)

Amortized
Cost

Fair 
Value

$ 155,102

$ 152,028

$ 163,025

$  161,889       $  187,325

$ 186,268

300,480
-
-
455,582

292,882
767
-
445,677

365,433
-
-
528,458

  362,108           356,667
-
976          
-
-          
  524,973           543,992

352,643
824
191
539,926

234,845
211,736
446,581
$ 902,163

234,510
205,071
439,581
$ 885,258

283,557
232,909
516,466
$1,044,924

  285,212           305,248
  227,771           238,090
  512,983           543,338
$ 1,037,956       $ 1,087,330

305,759
234,232
539,991
$1,079,917  

Our  investment  policy  is  contained  within our  overall  Asset-Liability  Management  and  Investment  Policy.  This policy  dictates  that 
investment decisions will be made based on the safety of the investment, liquidity requirements, potential returns, cash flow targets, need 
for collateral and desired risk parameters. In pursuing these objectives, we consider the ability of an investment to provide earnings 
consistent with factors of quality, maturity, marketability, pledgeable nature and risk diversification. Our Treasurer, guided by ALCO, is 
responsible for investment portfolio decisions within the established policies. 

Our  AFS  investment  securities  portfolio  decreased  $79.3 million  to  $445.7 million  at  December 31,  2018  from  $525.0 million  at 
December 31,  2017.  Our  AFS  portfolio  had  a  net  unrealized  loss  totaling  $9.9 million  at  December 31,  2018  compared  to  a  net 
unrealized loss of $3.5 million at December 31, 2017. The fair value of most of the investment securities in the AFS portfolio fluctuate 
as market interest rates change. 

-(cid:3)47 - 

 
 
 
   
      
   
      
 
          
 
          
 
 
 
          
 
 
 
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS 

Impairment Assessment 

We  review  investment  securities  on  an  ongoing  basis  for  the  presence  of  other-than-temporary  impairment  (“OTTI”)  with  formal 
reviews performed quarterly. Declines in the fair value of held to maturity and available for sale securities below their 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 or the 
security  is  intended  to be  sold or will  be  required  to be  sold.  The  amount  of  the  impairment  related  to  non-credit related  factors  is 
recognized  in  other  comprehensive  income.  Evaluating  whether  the  impairment  of  a  debt  security  is  other  than  temporary  involves 
assessing  i.)  the  intent  to  sell  the  debt security  or  ii.)  the  likelihood of being  required  to  sell  the  security  before  the  recovery of  its 
amortized cost basis. In determining whether the OTTI includes a credit loss, we use our best estimate of the present value of cash flows 
expected to be collected from the debt security considering factors such as: a.) the length of time and the extent to which the fair value 
has been less than the amortized cost basis, b.) adverse conditions specifically related to the security, an industry, or a geographic area, 
c.) the historical and implied volatility of the fair value of the security, d.) the payment structure of the debt security and the likelihood of 
the issuer being able to make payments that increase in the future, e.) failure of the issuer of the security to make scheduled interest or 
principal payments, f.) any changes to the rating of the security by a rating agency, and g.) recoveries or additional declines in fair value 
subsequent to the balance sheet date. 

As of December 31, 2018, we do not have the intent to sell any of our securities in a loss position and we believe that it is not likely that 
we will be required to sell any such securities before the anticipated recovery of amortized cost. The unrealized losses are largely due to 
increases in market interest rates over the yields available at the time the underlying securities were purchased. The fair value is expected 
to recover as the bonds approach their maturity date, repricing date or if market yields for such investments decline. We do not believe 
any of the securities in a loss position are impaired due to reasons of credit quality. Accordingly, as of December 31, 2018, we concluded 
that unrealized losses on our investment securities are temporary and no further impairment loss has been realized in our consolidated 
statements  of  income.  The  following  discussion  provides  further  details  of  our  assessment  of  the  securities  portfolio  by  investment 
category. 

U.S. Government Agencies and Government Sponsored Enterprises (“GSE”). As of December 31, 2018, there were 44 securities in 
an unrealized loss position in the U.S. Government agencies and GSE portfolio with unrealized losses totaling $3.1 million. Of these, 44 
were in an unrealized loss position for 12 months or longer and had an aggregate fair value of $152.0 million and unrealized losses of 
$3.1 million. The decline in fair value is attributable to changes in interest rates, and not credit quality, and because we do not have the 
intent to sell these securities and it is likely that we will not be required to sell the securities before their anticipated recovery, we do not 
consider these securities to be other-than-temporarily impaired at December 31, 2018. 

State  and  Political  Subdivisions. As of December 31, 2018, the state and political subdivisions, i.e. municipal securities, portfolio 
totaled  $234.8 million,  all  of  which  was  classified  as  held  to  maturity  (“HTM”).  As  of  that  date,  there  were  297  securities  in  an 
unrealized  loss  position  in  the  municipal  securities  portfolio  with  unrealized  losses  totaling  $1.2  million.  Of  these,  172  were  in  an 
unrealized loss position for 12 months or longer and had an aggregate fair value of $49.5 million and unrealized losses of $1.1 million. 

The decline in fair value is attributable to changes in interest rates, and not credit quality, and because we do not have the intent to sell 
these securities and it is not likely that we will be required to sell the securities before their anticipated recovery, we do not consider these 
securities to be other-than-temporarily impaired at December 31, 2018. 

Agency  Mortgage-backed  Securities.  With  the  exception  of  the  non-Agency  mortgage-backed  securities  (“non-Agency  MBS”) 
discussed below, all of the mortgage-backed securities held by us as of December 31, 2018, were issued by U.S. Government sponsored 
entities and agencies (“Agency MBS”), primarily FNMA and FHLMC. The contractual cash flows of our Agency MBS are guaranteed 
by FNMA, FHLMC or GNMA. The GNMA mortgage-backed securities are backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government. 

As of December 31, 2018, there were 99 securities in the AFS Agency MBS portfolio that were in an unrealized loss position with 
unrealized losses totaling $7.7 million. Of these, 98 were in an unrealized loss position for 12 months or longer and had an aggregate fair 
value of $286.3 million and unrealized losses of $7.7 million. As of December 31, 2018, there were 131 securities in the HTM Agency 
MBS portfolio that were in an unrealized loss position totaling $6.7 million. Of these, 121 were in an unrealized loss position for 12 
months or longer and had an aggregate fair value of $185.0 million and unrealized losses of $6.6 million. 

Given the high credit quality inherent in Agency MBS, we do not consider any of the unrealized losses as of December 31, 2018 on such 
Agency MBS to be credit related or other-than-temporary. As of December 31, 2018, we did not intend to sell any Agency MBS that 
were in an unrealized loss position, all of which were performing in accordance with their terms. 

Non-Agency Mortgage-backed Securities. Our non-Agency MBS portfolio consists of positions in one privately issued whole loan 
collateralized mortgage obligations with a fair value and net unrealized gain of $767 thousand as of December 31, 2018. As of that date, 
the one non-Agency MBS was rated below investment grade. This security was not in an unrealized loss position. 

-(cid:3)48 - 

 
 
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS 

Other Investments. As a member of the FHLB, the Bank is required to hold FHLB stock. The amount of required FHLB stock is based 
on the Bank’s asset size and the amount of borrowings from the FHLB. We have assessed the ultimate recoverability of our FHLB stock 
and believe that no impairment currently exists. As a member of the FRB system, we are required to maintain a specified investment in 
FRB stock based on a ratio relative to our capital. At December 31, 2018, our ownership of FHLB and FRB stock totaled $20.3 million 
and $6.1 million, respectively, and is included in other assets and recorded at cost, which approximates fair value. 

LENDING ACTIVITIES 

Total loans were $3.09 billion at December 31, 2018, an increase of $351.6 million or 13% from December 31, 2017. Commercial loans 
increased $256.8 million and represented 49.1% of total loans at the end of 2018. Consumer loans increased $94.8 million to represent 
50.9% of  total  loans  at December 31, 2018.  The  composition of  our  loan portfolio,  excluding  loans held for sale  and  including net 
unearned income and net deferred fees and costs, is summarized as follows (in thousands): 

(cid:3)  

Commercial business 
Commercial mortgage 
Total commercial 
Residential real estate loans 
Residential real estate lines 
Consumer indirect 
Other consumer 

Total consumer 
Total loans 
Allowance for loan losses 

Total loans, net 

2018 

2015 

2017 

Loan Portfolio Composition 
At December 31, 
2016 
    Amount        Percent         Amount      Percent       Amount      Percent       Amount        Percent       Amount      Percent    
18.1 %    $  450,326
14.0%
   $  557,861          
31.0            808,908
24.8
       958,194          
49.1           1,259,234
38.8
      1,516,055          
17.0            465,283
18.7
       524,155          
3.6            116,309
       109,718          
6.8
29.8            876,570
34.6
       919,917          
0.5           
17,621
1.1
16,753          
61.2
50.9           1,475,783
      1,570,543          
      3,086,598           100.0 %       2,735,017
100.0%
34,672
       $ 2,700,345

15.0 %   $ 267,409
475,092
27.2      
742,501
42.2      
357,187
18.3      
129,529
6.1      
661,673
32.5      
0.9      
21,112
57.8       1,169,501
100.0% 2,083,762           100.0 %   1,912,002
27,637
       $1,884,365

16.5% $ 349,547
670,058
29.6
1,019,605
46.1
427,937
17.0
122,555
4.3
752,421
32.0
17,643
0.6
1,320,556
53.9
100.0% 2,340,161
30,934
$ 2,309,227

14.9% $ 313,758          
566,101          
28.6
879,859          
43.5
381,074          
18.3
127,347          
5.2
676,940          
32.2
18,542          
0.8
1,203,903          
56.5

33,914             
   $ 3,052,684             

27,085          
$ 2,056,677          

2014 

Commercial  loans  increased  during  2018  as  we  continued  our  successful  commercial  business  development  efforts.  The  credit  risk 
related to commercial loans is largely influenced by general economic conditions and the resulting impact on a borrower’s operations or 
on the value of underlying collateral. 

Factors that are important to managing overall credit quality are sound loan underwriting and administration, systematic monitoring of 
existing loans and commitments, effective loan review on an ongoing basis, early identification of potential problems, an appropriate 
allowance for loan losses, and sound nonaccrual and charge off policies. 

An active credit risk management process is used for commercial loans to further ensure that sound and consistent credit decisions are 
made.  Credit  risk  is  controlled  by  detailed  underwriting  procedures,  comprehensive  loan  administration,  and  periodic  review  of 
borrowers’ outstanding loans and commitments. Borrower relationships are formally reviewed and graded on an ongoing basis for early 
identification of potential problems. Further analyses by customer, industry, and geographic location are performed to monitor trends, 
financial performance, and concentrations. 

We participate  in various  lending programs  in which guarantees  are  supplied by U.S. government  agencies,  such  as  the SBA,  U.S. 
Department  of  Agriculture,  Rural  Economic  and  Community  Development  and  Farm  Service  Agency,  among  others.  As  of 
December 31, 2018, the principal balance of such loans (included in commercial loans) was $44.7 million and the guaranteed portion 
amounted to $28.4 million. Most of these loans were guaranteed by the SBA. 

Commercial business loans were $557.9 million at the end of 2018, up $107.6 million or 24% since the end of 2017, and comprised 
18.1% of total loans outstanding at December 31, 2018, compared to 16.5% at December 31, 2017. We typically originate business loans 
of  up  to  $15.0 million  for  small  to  mid-sized  businesses  in  our  market  area  for  working  capital,  equipment  financing,  inventory 
financing, accounts receivable financing, or other general business purposes. Loans of this type are in a diverse range of industries. As of 
December 31, 2018, commercial business SBA loans accounted for a total of $32.2 million or 6% of our commercial business loan 
portfolio. 

-(cid:3)49 - 

 
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
       
     
     
     
   
   
      
      
          
      
 
 
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS 

Commercial  mortgage loans totaled $958.2 million at December 31, 2018, up $149.3 million or 18% from December 31, 2017, and 
comprised 31.0% of total loans, compared to 29.6% at December 31, 2017. Commercial mortgage loans include both owner occupied 
and  non-owner  occupied  commercial  real  estate  loans.  Approximately  28%  and  35%  of  our  commercial  mortgage  portfolio  at 
December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively, was owner occupied commercial real estate. The majority of our commercial real estate 
loans are secured by office buildings, manufacturing facilities, distribution/warehouse facilities, and retail centers, which are generally 
located in our local market area. As of December 31, 2018, commercial mortgage SBA loans accounted for a total of $8.8 million or 1% 
of our commercial mortgage loan portfolio. 

We  determine  our  current  lending  standards  for  commercial  real  estate  and  real  estate  construction  lending  by  property  type  and 
specifically address many criteria, including: maximum loan amounts, maximum loan-to-value (“LTV”), requirements for pre-leasing or 
pre-sales,  minimum  debt-service  coverage  ratios,  minimum  borrower  equity,  and  maximum  loan  to  cost.  Currently,  the  maximum 
standard for LTV is 85%, with lower limits established for certain higher risk types, such as raw land which has a 65% LTV maximum. 

Consumer loans totaled $1.57 billion at December 31, 2018, up $94.8 million or 6% compared to 2017, and represented 50.9% of the 
2018 year-end loan portfolio versus 53.9% at year-end 2017. Loans in this classification include residential real estate loans, residential 
real estate lines, indirect consumer and other consumer installment loans. Credit risk for these types of loans is generally influenced by 
general economic conditions, the characteristics of individual borrowers, and the nature of the loan collateral. Risks of loss are generally 
on smaller average balances per loan spread over many borrowers. Once charged off, there is usually less opportunity for recovery on 
these smaller retail loans. Credit risk is primarily controlled by reviewing the creditworthiness of the borrowers, monitoring payment 
histories, and taking appropriate collateral and guaranty positions. 

Residential real estate portfolios include conventional first lien mortgages and home equity loans and lines of credit. For conventional 
first lien mortgages, we generally limit the maximum loan to 85% of collateral value without credit enhancement (e.g. personal mortgage 
insurance). A portion of our fixed-rate conventional mortgage loans are sold in the secondary market with servicing rights retained. Our 
conventional  mortgage  products  continue  to  be  underwritten  using  FHLMC  secondary  marketing  guidelines.  Our  underwriting 
guidelines for home equity products include a combination of borrower FICO (credit score), the LTV of the property securing the loan 
and evidence of the borrower having sufficient income to repay the loan. Currently, for home equity products, the maximum acceptable 
LTV is 90%. The average FICO score for new home equity production was 766 and 763 during the years ended December 31, 2018 and 
2017, respectively. 

Residential  real  estate  loans  totaled $524.1 million  at  the end of  2018, up $58.9 million or 13% from  the  end of  the prior  year  and 
comprised 17.0% of total loans outstanding at December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, our 
residential  real  estate  loan  portfolio  included  $6.5 million  and  $8.6 million,  respectively,  of  loans  acquired  during  2012  branch 
acquisitions.  The  residential  real  estate  line  portfolio  amounted  to  $109.7 million  at  December 31,  2018  down  $6.6 million  or  6% 
compared to 2017 and represented 3.6% of the 2018 year-end loan portfolio versus 4.3% at year-end 2017. As of December 31, 2018 and 
2017, our residential real estate line portfolio included $7.6 million and $9.5 million, respectively, of loans acquired during the 2012 
branch acquisitions. 

The residential  real  estate  loans  and  lines portfolios  had  a  weighted  average  LTV  at origination of  approximately  66%  and 64% at 
December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. Approximately 89% and 88% of the loans and lines were first lien positions at December 31, 
2018 and 2017, respectively. 

Consumer indirect loans amounted to $919.9 million at December 31, 2018 up $43.3 million or 5% compared to 2017 and represented 
29.8% of the 2018 year-end loan portfolio versus 32.0% at year-end 2017. The loans are primarily for the purchase of automobiles (both 
new and used) and light duty trucks primarily by individuals, but also by corporations and other organizations. The loans are originated 
through dealerships and assigned to us with terms that typically range from 36 to 84 months. During the year ended December 31, 2018, 
we originated $394.8 million in indirect loans with a mix of approximately 39% new vehicles and 61% used vehicles. This compares 
with $433.1 million in indirect loans with a mix of approximately 42% new vehicles and 58% used vehicles for the same period in 2017. 
We do business with over 450 franchised auto dealers located in Western, Central, and the Capital District of New York, and Northern 
and Central Pennsylvania. The average FICO score for indirect loan production was 729 and 734 during the years ended December 31, 
2018 and 2017, respectively. Other consumer loans totaled $16.8 million at December 31, 2018, down $868 thousand or 5% compared 
to 2017, and represented less than one percent of the 2018 and 2017 year-end loan portfolio. Other consumer loans consist of personal 
loans (collateralized and uncollateralized) and deposit account collateralized loans. 

Our  loan  portfolio  is  widely  diversified  by  types  of  borrowers,  industry  groups,  and  market  areas  within  our  operating  footprint. 
Significant loan concentrations are considered to exist for a financial institution when there are amounts loaned to numerous borrowers 
engaged in similar activities that would cause them to be similarly impacted by economic or other conditions. At December 31, 2018, no 
significant concentrations, as defined above, existed in our portfolio in excess of 10% of total loans. 

-(cid:3)50 - 

 
 
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS 

Loans  Held  for  Sale  and  Loan  Servicing  Rights. Loans held for sale (not included in the loan portfolio composition table) were 
entirely  comprised  of  residential  real  estate  loans  and  totaled  $2.9 million  and  $2.7 million  as  of  December 31,  2018  and  2017, 
respectively. 

We sell certain qualifying newly originated or refinanced residential real estate loans on the secondary market with servicing retained. 
Residential real estate loans serviced for others, which are not included in the consolidated statements of financial condition, amounted 
to $171.5 million and $163.3 million as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. 

Allowance for Loan Losses 
The following table summarizes the activity in the allowance for loan losses (in thousands). 

(cid:3)  

Allowance for loan losses, beginning of year 
Charge-offs: 

2018 
34,672

$

$

Loan Loss Analysis 
Year Ended December 31, 
2016 
27,085        $  27,637

        2015 

2017 
30,934

$

Commercial business 
Commercial mortgage 
Residential real estate loans 
Residential real estate lines 
Consumer indirect 
Other consumer 

Total charge-offs 

Recoveries: 

Commercial business 
Commercial mortgage 
Residential real estate loans 
Residential real estate lines 
Consumer indirect 
Other consumer 

Total recoveries 

Net charge-offs 
Provision for loan losses 
Allowance for loan losses, end of year 

2,319
1,020
95
142
10,850
1,308
15,734

509
13
159
20
5,024
317
6,042
9,692
8,934
33,914

3,614
10
431
106
10,164
926
15,251

416
262
130
60
4,444
316
5,628
9,623
13,361
34,672

943           
385           
289           
104           
8,748           
607           

1,433
895
397
199
9,156
878
11,076            12,958

212
447           
146
45           
114
174           
31
15           
4,200
4,259           
322
347           
5,025
5,287           
7,933
5,789           
9,638           
7,381
30,934        $  27,085

$

$

$

2014 
26,736

$

204
304
382
148
10,004
972
12,014

201
143
76
19
4,321
366
5,126
6,888
7,789
27,637

$

Net charge-offs to average loans 
Allowance to end of period loans 
Allowance to end of period non-performing loans 

0.33%
1.10%
475%

0.38%
1.27%
277%

0.26 %       
1.32 %       
489 %       

0.40%
1.30%
321%

0.37%
1.45%
272%

The following table sets forth the allocation of the allowance for loan losses by loan category as of the dates indicated. The allocation is 
made for analytical purposes and is not necessarily indicative of the categories in which actual losses may occur. The total allowance is 
available to absorb losses from any segment of the loan portfolio (in thousands). 
(cid:3)  

Loan 
Loss 

    Loan 
Loss 

2018 
        Percentage            
        of loans by        
        category(cid:3)to        
    Allowance         total loans         Allowance  
15,668
    $ 
3,696
1,322
180
13,415
391
34,672

14,312            
5,219            
1,112            
210            
12,572            
489            
33,914            

18.1 %     $ 
31.0            
17.0            
3.6            
29.8            
0.5            
100.0 %     $ 

    $ 

Commercial business 
Commercial mortgage 
Residential real estate loans 
Residential real estate lines 
Consumer indirect 
Other consumer 
Total 

Allowance for Loan Losses by Loan Category 
At December 31, 
2016 

2017 

  Percentage      
  of loans by      
  category(cid:3)to      

Loan 
Loss 

  Percentage      
  of loans by      
  category(cid:3)to      

Loan 
Loss 

2015 
        Percentage      
        of loans by      
        category(cid:3)to      

Loan 
Loss 

2014 

total loans       Allowance         total loans       Allowance  
5,621
8,122
1,620
435
11,383
456
27,637

5,540            
9,027            
1,347            
345            
10,458            
368            
27,085            

15.0 %   $
27.2      
18.3      
6.1      
32.5      
0.9      
100.0 %   $

14.9 % $
28.6
18.3
5.2
32.2
0.8

100.0 % $

total loans       Allowance  
7,225
10,315
1,478
303
11,311
302
30,934

16.5 % $
29.6
17.0
4.3
32.0
0.6

100.0 % $

-(cid:3)51 - 

  Percentage    
  of loans by    
  category(cid:3)to    
total loans    
14.0 %
24.8
18.7
6.8
34.6
1.1
100.0 %

 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
           
           
   
           
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
       
 
 
     
   
       
   
   
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
       
       
       
       
       
 
 
 
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS 

Management believes that the allowance for loan losses at December 31, 2018 is adequate to cover probable losses in the loan portfolio 
at that date. Factors beyond our control, however, such as general national and local economic conditions, can adversely impact the 
adequacy  of  the  allowance  for  loan  losses.  As  a  result,  no  assurance  can  be  given  that  adverse  economic  conditions  or  other 
circumstances will not result in increased losses in the portfolio or that the allowance for loan losses will be sufficient to meet actual loan 
losses. See Part I, Item 1A “Risk Factors” for the risks impacting this estimate. Management presents a quarterly review of the adequacy 
of the allowance for loan losses to the Audit Committee of our Board of Directors based on the methodology that is described in further 
detail in Part I, Item I “Business” under the section titled “Lending Activities.” See also “Critical Accounting Estimates” for additional 
information on the allowance for loan losses. 

Non-performing Assets and Potential Problem Loans 
The following table sets forth information regarding non-performing assets (in thousands): 

(cid:3)  

Non-accruing loans: 

Commercial business 
Commercial mortgage 
Residential real estate loans 
Residential real estate lines 
Consumer indirect 
Other consumer 

Total non-accruing loans 

Accruing loans contractually past due over 90 days 

Total non-performing loans 

Foreclosed assets 

Total non-performing assets 

Non-performing loans to total loans 
Non-performing assets to total assets

Non-performing Assets 
At December 31, 
2016 

        2015 

2017 

$

5,344
2,623
2,252
404
1,895
2
12,520
11
12,531
148
$ 12,679

$

$

2,151        $ 
1,025           
1,236           
372           
1,526           
7           
6,317           
9           
6,326           
107           
6,433        $ 

3,922
947
1,848
235
1,467
13
8,432
8
8,440
163
8,603

2018 

912
1,586
2,391
255
1,989
-
7,133
8
7,141
230
7,371

$

$

2014 

4,288
3,020
1,451
206
1,169
11
10,145
8
10,153
194
10,347

$

$

0.23%
0.17%

0.46%
0.31%

0.27 %       
0.17 %       

0.41%
0.25%

0.53%
0.33%

Non-performing  assets  include  non-performing  loans,  foreclosed  assets  and  non-performing  investment  securities.  Non-performing 
assets at December 31, 2018 were $7.4 million, a decrease of $5.3 million from the $12.7 million balance at December 31, 2017. The 
primary component of non-performing assets is non-performing loans, which were $7.1 million or 0.23% of total loans at December 31, 
2018, a decrease of $5.4 million from $12.5 million or 0.46% of total loans at December 31, 2017. 

Approximately $491 thousand, or 7%, of the $7.1 million in non-performing loans as of December 31, 2018 were current with respect to 
payment  of  principal  and  interest  but  were  classified  as  non-accruing  because  repayment  in  full  of  principal  and/or  interest  was 
uncertain. The amount of interest income forgone totaled $294 thousand and $481 thousand for non-accruing loans outstanding as of 
December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. Included in nonaccrual loans are troubled debt restructurings (“TDRs”) of $546 thousand 
and $691 thousand at December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. We had one TDR of $580 thousand that was accruing interest as of 
December 31, 2018 and one TDR of $633 thousand that was accruing interest as of December 31, 2017. 

Foreclosed  assets  consist  of  real  property  formerly  pledged  as  collateral  for  loans,  which  we  have  acquired  through  foreclosure 
proceedings or acceptance of a deed in lieu of foreclosure. Foreclosed asset holdings represented three properties totaling $230 thousand 
at December 31, 2018 and four properties totaling $148 thousand at December 31, 2017. 

Potential problem loans are loans that are currently performing, but information known about possible credit problems of the borrowers 
causes us to have concern as to the ability of such borrowers to comply with the present loan payment terms and may result in disclosure 
of such loans as nonperforming at some time in the future. These loans remain in a performing status due to a variety of factors, including 
payment history, the value of collateral supporting the credits, and/or personal or government guarantees. We consider loans classified 
as substandard, which continue to accrue interest, to be potential problem loans. We identified $11.9 million and $12.5 million in loans 
that continued to accrue interest which were classified as substandard as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. 

-(cid:3)52 - 

 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
           
   
           
 
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS 

FUNDING ACTIVITIES 
Deposits 
The following table summarizes the composition of our deposits (dollars in thousands). 

(cid:3)  

Noninterest-bearing demand 
Interest-bearing demand 
Savings and money market 
Time deposits < $250,000 
Time deposits of $250,000 or more 

Total deposits 

2018 

At December 31, 
2017 

2016 

Amount 
$ 755,460
622,482
968,897
810,434
209,634
$3,366,907

Percent  

Amount 
22.4% $ 718,498
634,203
18.5
1,005,317
28.8
698,179
24.1
153,977
6.2
100.0% $3,210,174

Percent       Amount 
22.4 %   $  677,076
19.8           581,436
31.3          1,034,194
21.7           602,715
99,801
  100.0 %   $ 2,995,222

4.8          

Percent  

22.6%
19.4
34.5
20.2
3.3
100.0%

We  offer  a  variety  of  deposit  products  designed  to  attract  and retain  customers,  with  the  primary  focus  on  building  and  expanding 
long-term relationships. At December 31, 2018, total deposits were $3.37 billion, representing an increase of $156.7 million for the year. 

Nonpublic deposits, the largest component of our funding sources, totaled $2.16 billion and $2.07 billion at December 31, 2018 and 
2017, respectively, and represented 64% and 65% of total deposits as of the end of each period, respectively. We have managed this 
segment of funding through a strategy of competitive pricing that minimizes the number of customer relationships that have only a single 
service high cost deposit account. 

As an additional source of funding, we offer a variety of public (municipal) deposit products to the towns, villages, counties and school 
districts within our market. Public deposits generally range from 20% to 30% of our total deposits. There is a high degree of seasonality 
in this component of funding, because the level of deposits varies with the seasonal cash flows for these public customers. We maintain 
the necessary levels of short-term liquid assets to accommodate the seasonality associated with public deposits. Total public deposits 
were $832.1 million and $829.5 million at December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively, and represented 25% and 26% of 
total  deposits as  of  the  end of  each period,  respectively. The increase  in public  deposits  during 2018 was due  largely  to  successful 
business development efforts. 

We had no traditional brokered deposits at December 31, 2018 or December 31, 2017; however, we do participate in the CDARS and 
ICS programs, which enable depositors to receive FDIC insurance coverage for deposits otherwise exceeding the maximum insurable 
amount. Through these programs, deposits in excess of the maximum insurable amount are placed with multiple participating financial 
institutions.  Prior  to  the  Economic  Growth  Act  enacted  on  May  14,  2018,  all  CDARS  and  ICS  deposits  were  considered  brokered 
deposits for regulatory reporting purposes. With the enactment of Economic Growth Act, reciprocal CDARS and ICS deposits, subject 
to certain restrictions, are no longer required to be reported as brokered deposits. CDARS deposits and ICS deposits, the majority of 
which are reciprocal, totaled $224.9 million and $149.6 million, respectively, at December 31, 2018, compared to $159.2 million and 
$147.3 million, respectively, at December 31, 2017, and collectively represented 11% and 9% of total deposits as of the end of each 
period, respectively. 

Borrowings 

The Company classifies borrowings as short-term or long-term in accordance with the original terms of the agreement. Outstanding 
borrowings are summarized as follows as of December 31 (in thousands): 

(cid:3)  
Short-term borrowings: 

Short-term FHLB borrowings 
Other 

Long-term borrowings: 

Subordinated notes, net 

Total borrowings 

2018 

2017 

$

$

405,500  
64,000  

39,202  
508,702  

$

$

446,200
-

39,131
485,331  

-(cid:3)53 - 

 
 
 
 
   
 
     
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS 

Short-term borrowings 

Short-term FHLB borrowings have original maturities of less than one year and include overnight borrowings which we typically utilize 
to address short term funding needs as they arise. Short-term FHLB borrowings at December 31, 2018 consisted of $200.0 million in 
overnight  borrowings  and  $205.5 million  in  short-term  advances.  Short-term  FHLB  borrowings  at  December 31,  2017  consisted  of 
$304.7 million  in  overnight  borrowings  and  $141.5 million  in  short-term  advances.  The  FHLB  borrowings  are  collateralized  by 
securities  from  the  Company’s  investment  portfolio  and  certain  qualifying  loans.  At  December 31,  2018  and  2017,  the  Company’s 
borrowings had a weighted average rate of 2.64% and 1.50%, respectively. 

We have credit capacity with the FHLB and can borrow through facilities that include amortizing and term advances or repurchase 
agreements.  We  had  approximately  $54.9 million  of  immediate  credit  capacity  with  the  FHLB  as  of  December 31,  2018.  We  had 
approximately  $671.5 million  in  secured  borrowing  capacity  at  the  FRB  discount  window,  none  of  which  was  outstanding  at 
December 31,  2018.  The  FHLB  and  FRB  credit  capacity  are  collateralized  by  securities  from  our  investment  portfolio  and  certain 
qualifying  loans.  We  had  $145 million  of  credit  available  under  unsecured  federal  funds  purchased  lines  with  various  banks  as  of 
December 31,  2018,  with  $64.0  million  outstanding  at  December  31,  2018.  Additionally,  we  had  approximately  $118.8 million  of 
unencumbered liquid securities available for pledging. 

The Parent has a revolving line of credit with a commercial bank allowing borrowings up to $20.0 million in total as an additional source 
of working capital. At December 31, 2018, no amounts have been drawn on the line of credit. 
The following table summarizes information relating to our short-term borrowings (dollars in thousands). 

(cid:3)  

Year-end balance 
Year-end weighted average interest rate 
Maximum outstanding at any month-end 
Average balance during the year 
Average interest rate for the year 

Long-term borrowings 

At or for the Year Ended December 31, 
2016 
2017 
2018 

$

$
$

469,500    $ 
2.64%       
477,100    $ 
394,679    $ 
2.11%       

446,200

1.50%

446,900
338,392

1.16%

$

$
$

331,500

0.76%

358,700
248,938

0.65%

On April 15, 2015, we issued $40.0 million of Subordinated Notes in a registered public offering. The Subordinated Notes bear interest 
at a fixed rate of 6.0% per year, payable semi-annually, for the first 10 years. From April 15, 2025 to the April 15, 2030 maturity date, the 
interest rate will reset quarterly to an annual interest rate equal to the then current three-month London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) 
plus 3.944%, payable quarterly. The Subordinated Notes are redeemable by us at any quarterly interest payment date beginning on 
April 15,  2025  to  maturity  at  par,  plus  accrued  and  unpaid  interest.  Proceeds,  net  of  debt  issuance  costs  of  $1.1 million,  were 
$38.9 million. The net proceeds from this offering were used for general corporate purposes, including but not limited to, contribution of 
capital to the Bank to support both organic growth and opportunistic acquisitions. The Subordinated Notes qualify as Tier 2 capital for 
regulatory purposes. 

Shareholders’ Equity 

Total shareholders’ equity was $396.3 million at December 31, 2018, an increase of $15.1 million from $381.2 million at December 31, 
2017. Net income for the year increased shareholders’ equity by $39.5 million, which was partially offset by common and preferred 
stock  dividends  declared  of  $16.7 million.  Accumulated  other  comprehensive  loss  included  in  shareholders’  equity  increased 
$9.4 million during the year due primarily to higher net unrealized losses on securities available for sale and the change in pension and 
post-retirement  obligations.  For  detailed  information  on  shareholders’  equity,  see  Note  13,  Shareholders’  Equity,  of  the  notes  to 
consolidated financial statements. FII and the Bank are subject to various regulatory capital requirements. At December 31, 2018 both 
FII  and  the  Bank  exceeded  all  regulatory  requirements.  For  detailed  information  on  regulatory  capital  requirements,  see  Note  12, 
Regulatory Matters, of the notes to consolidated financial statements. 

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES 

The  objective  of  maintaining  adequate  liquidity  is  to  ensure  that  we  meet  our  financial  obligations.  These  obligations  include  the 
withdrawal of deposits on demand or at their contractual maturity, the repayment of matured borrowings, the ability to fund new and 
existing loan commitments and the ability to take advantage of new business opportunities. We achieve liquidity by maintaining a strong 
base of core customer funds, maturing short-term assets, our ability to sell or pledge securities, lines-of-credit, and access to the financial 
and capital markets. 

-(cid:3)54 - 

 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS 

Liquidity for the Bank is managed through the monitoring of anticipated changes in loans, the investment portfolio, core deposits and 
wholesale funds. The strength of the Bank’s liquidity position is a result of its base of core customer deposits. These core deposits are 
supplemented by wholesale funding sources that include credit lines with the other banking institutions, the FHLB and the FRB. 

The primary sources of liquidity for FII are dividends from the Bank and access to financial and capital markets. Dividends from the 
Bank are limited by various regulatory requirements related to capital adequacy and earnings trends. The Bank relies on cash flows from 
operations, core deposits, borrowings and short-term liquid assets. 

Cash  and  cash  equivalents  were  $102.8 million  as  of  December 31,  2018,  an  increase  of  $3.6 million  from  $99.2 million  as  of 
December 31, 2017. Net cash provided by operating activities totaled $65.1 million and the principal source of operating activity cash 
flow was net income adjusted for noncash income and expense items. Net cash used in investing activities totaled $225.4 million, which 
included  outflows  of  $361.9 million  for  net  loan  originations  and  partially  offset  by  inflows  of  $143.2 million  from  net  investment 
securities transactions. Net cash provided by financing activities of $163.8 million was attributed to a $156.7 million increase in deposits 
and a $23.3 million increase in short-term borrowings, partly offset by $16.4 million in dividend payments. 

Contractual Obligations and Other Commitments 
The following table summarizes the maturities of various contractual obligations and other commitments (in thousands): 

(cid:3)  

Within 1
year

At December(cid:3)31, 2018 
Over(cid:3)3(cid:3)to(cid:3)5 
Years(cid:3)

Over 5 
years

Over 1 to 3
years

Total 

On-Balance sheet: 
Time deposits (1) 
Supplemental executive retirement plans 
Earn-out liabilities 
Subordinated notes 

Off-Balance sheet: 
Purchase commitments 
Limited partnership investments (2) 
Commitments to extend credit (3) 
Standby letters of credit (3) 
Operating leases 

$

$

$ 871,007
389
2,528
-

$ 131,179
783
1,140
-

$

$

359
468
687,875
11,083
2,495

-
937
-
763
4,497

5
17,877       $ 
374
711          
-          
-
-           40,000

$1,020,068
2,257
3,668
40,000

-       $ 
468          
-          
132          

-
-
-
-
3,497           29,232

$

359
1,873
687,875
11,978
39,721  

(1) 

Includes the maturity of time deposits amounting to $100 thousand or more as follows: $359.2 million in three months or less; $103.4 million 
between three months and six months; $124.3 million between six months and one year; and $52.7 million over one year. 

(2)  We have committed to capital investments in several limited partnerships of up to $9.0 million, of which we have contributed $7.2 million as of 

(3)  We do not expect all of the commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit to be funded. Thus, the total commitment amounts do not 

December 31, 2018, including $711 thousand during 2018. 

necessarily represent our future cash requirements. 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements 

With  the  exception  of  obligations  in  connection  with  our  irrevocable  loan  commitments,  operating  leases  and  limited  partnership 
investments as of December 31, 2018, we had no other off-balance sheet arrangements that have or are reasonably likely to have a 
current or future effect on our financial condition, changes in financial condition, revenues or expenses, results of operations, liquidity, 
capital expenditures or capital resources that is material to investors. For additional information on off-balance sheet arrangements, see 
Note 1, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Note 11, Commitments and Contingencies, in the notes to the accompanying 
consolidated financial statements. 

-(cid:3)55 - 

 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
   
      
   
 
 
          
   
          
 
          
 
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS 

Security Yields and Maturities Schedule 

The  following  table  sets  forth  certain  information  regarding  the  amortized  cost  (“Cost”),  weighted  average  yields  (“Yield”)  and 
contractual maturities of our debt securities portfolio as of December 31, 2018. Mortgage-backed securities are included in maturity 
categories based on their stated maturity date. Actual maturities may differ from the contractual maturities presented because borrowers 
may  have  the  right  to  call  or  prepay  certain  investments.  No  tax-equivalent  adjustments  were  made  to  the  weighted  average  yields 
(dollars in thousands). 

(cid:3)  

Available for sale debt securities: 
U.S. Government agencies and 
government-sponsored enterprises 
Mortgage-backed securities 

Held to maturity debt securities: 
State and political subdivisions 
Mortgage-backed securities 

Total investment securities 

Due in less 
than 
one year(cid:3)

  Cost 

  Yield  

Due from one 
to 
five years
Cost  Yield  

Due after five
years through
ten years
Cost  Yield  

Due after ten 
years(cid:3)

Total 

Cost 

  Yield  

Cost  Yield  

 $ 10,057      1.70% $ 83,801
59,945
    30,296      1.60
143,746
    40,353      1.62

2.27% $ 61,244
126,446
2.16
187,690
2.22

2.40% $
2.53
2.48

-      
83,793      2.35  
83,793      2.35  

- % $155,102
300,480
455,582

147,428
    48,079      2.24
2,457
-
-   
    48,079      2.24
149,885
 $ 88,432      1.96% $293,631

39,338
2.14
37,416
2.30
2.15
76,754
2.18% $264,444

-  
-   
171,863      2.48  
171,863      2.48  

234,845
1.79
211,736
1.79
1.79
446,581
2.28% $255,656      2.44 % $902,163

2.28%
2.31
2.30

2.10
2.36
2.22
2.26%

Contractual Loan Maturity Schedule 

The  following  table  summarizes  the  contractual  maturities  of  our  loan  portfolio  at  December 31,  2018.  Loans,  net  of  deferred  loan 
origination  costs,  include  principal  amortization  and  non-accruing  loans.  Demand  loans  having  no  stated  schedule  of  repayment  or 
maturity and overdrafts are reported as due in one year or less (in thousands). 

(cid:3)  
Commercial business 
Commercial mortgage 
Residential real estate loans 
Residential real estate lines 
Consumer indirect 
Other consumer 
Total loans 

Loans maturing after one year: 

With a predetermined interest rate 
With a floating or adjustable rate 
Total loans maturing after one year 

Due in less
than one 
year
106,289
230,540
68,275
2,776
364,293
8,743
780,916

$

$

Due from 
one 

to five years(cid:3)      
$

241,685       $ 
501,743          
223,930          
6,774          
555,624          
7,751          
$ 1,537,507       $ 

Due after 
five 
years(cid:3)

209,887
225,911
231,950
100,168
-
259
768,175

Total 

$

557,861
958,194
524,155
109,718
919,917
16,753
$ 3,086,598

$

348,023       $ 
1,189,484          
$ 1,537,507       $ 

417,186
350,989
768,175

$

765,209
1,540,473
$ 2,305,682  

-(cid:3)56 - 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
    
      
      
  
   
    
      
      
  
    
   
 
 
 
   
   
 
   
          
   
          
          
 
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS 

Capital Resources 

The FRB has adopted a system using risk-based capital guidelines to evaluate the capital adequacy of bank holding companies on a 
consolidated basis. The final rules implementing the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision’s (“BCBS”) capital guidelines for U.S. 
banks became effective for the Company on January 1, 2015, with full compliance with all of the final requirements phased in over a 
multi-year  schedule,  to  be  fully  phased-in  by  January 1,  2019.  As  of  December 31,  2018,  the  Company’s  capital  levels  remained 
characterized as “well-capitalized” under the new rules. We continue to evaluate the potential impact that regulatory rules may have on 
our  liquidity  and  capital  management  strategies,  including  Basel  III  and  those  required  under  the  Dodd-Frank  Act.  See  Note  12, 
Regulatory  Matters  of  the  notes  to  consolidated  financial  statements  and  the  “Basel  III  Capital  Rules”  section  below  for  further 
discussion. The following table reflects the Company’s ratios and their components as of December 31 (in thousands): 

(cid:3)  
Common shareholders’ equity 

Less: Goodwill and other intangible assets 

Net unrealized loss on investment securities (1)
Hedging derivative instruments 
Net periodic pension & postretirement benefits plan adjustments
Other 

Common equity Tier 1 (“CET1”) capital 

Plus:    Preferred stock 
Less:    Other 

Tier 1 Capital 

Plus:    Qualifying allowance for loan losses 

Subordinated Notes 

Total regulatory capital 
Adjusted average total assets (for leverage capital purposes)
Total risk-weighted assets 

Regulatory Capital Ratios 
Tier 1 leverage (Tier 1 capital to adjusted average assets)
CET1 capital (CET1 capital to total risk-weighted assets)
Tier 1 capital (Tier 1 capital to total risk-weighted assets)
Total risk-based capital (Total regulatory capital to total risk-weighted assets)

2018 

2017 

$

$
$
$

378,965         $
73,291        
(7,769 )     
(276 )     
(13,236 )     
-        
326,955        
17,328        
-        
344,283        
33,914        
39,202        
417,399         $
4,218,972         $
3,371,541         $

363,848
70,413
(3,275)
-
(8,641)
-
305,351
17,329
-
322,680
34,672
39,131
396,483
3,967,749
3,005,655

8.16 %    
9.70        
10.21        
12.38        

8.13%
10.16
10.74
13.19  

(1) 

Includes unrealized gains and losses related to the Company’s reclassification of available for sale investment securities to the held 
to maturity category. 

Basel III Capital Rules 

In July 2013, the FRB and the FDIC approved the final rules implementing the BCBS’s capital guidelines for U.S. banks. Under the final 
rules, minimum requirements will increase for both the quantity and quality of capital held by the Company. The rules include a new 
common equity Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets minimum ratio of 4.5%, raise the minimum ratio of Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted 
assets  from  4.0%  to 6.0%, require  a  minimum  ratio  of  total  capital  to risk-weighted assets  of  8.0%,  and  require  a  minimum  Tier 1 
leverage ratio of 4.0%. A new capital conservation buffer is also established above the regulatory minimum capital requirements. This 
capital  conservation  buffer  will  be  phased  in  beginning  January 1,  2016  at  0.625%  of  risk-weighted  assets  and  will  increase  each 
subsequent year by an additional 0.625% until reaching its final level of 2.5% on January 1, 2019. Strict eligibility criteria for regulatory 
capital  instruments  were  also  implemented  under  the  final  rules.  The  final  rules  also  revise  the  definition  and  calculation  of  Tier  1 
capital, total capital, and risk-weighted assets. 

The phase-in period for the final rules became effective for the Company on January 1, 2015, with full compliance with all of the final 
rules’  requirements  phased  in  over  a  multi-year  schedule,  to  be  fully  phased-in  by  January 1,  2019.  As  of  December 31,  2018,  the 
Company’s capital levels remained characterized as “well-capitalized” under the new rules. 

-(cid:3)57 - 

 
 
 
 
       
 
   
        
        
 
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS 

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES 

Our  consolidated  financial  statements  are  prepared  in  accordance  with  GAAP  and  are  consistent  with  predominant  practices  in  the 
financial services industry. Application of critical accounting policies, which are those policies that management believes are the most 
important to our financial position and results, requires management to make estimates, assumptions, and judgments that affect the 
amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes and are based on information available as of the date 
of the financial statements. Future changes in information may affect these estimates, assumptions and judgments, which, in turn, may 
affect amounts reported in the financial statements. 

We have numerous accounting policies, of which the most significant are presented in Note 1, Summary of Significant Accounting 
Policies, of the notes to consolidated financial statements. These policies, along with the disclosures presented in the other financial 
statement notes and, in this discussion, provide information on how significant assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses are reported in 
the consolidated financial statements and how those reported amounts are determined. Based on the sensitivity of financial statement 
amounts to the methods, assumptions, and estimates underlying those amounts, management has determined that the accounting policies 
with respect to the allowance for loan losses, valuation of goodwill and deferred tax assets, and accounting for defined benefit plans 
require particularly subjective or complex judgments important to our financial position and results of operations, and, as such, are 
considered to be critical accounting policies as discussed below. These estimates and assumptions are based on management’s best 
estimates  and  judgment  and  are  evaluated  on  an  ongoing  basis  using  historical  experience  and  other  factors,  including  the  current 
economic environment. We adjust these estimates and assumptions when facts and circumstances dictate. Illiquid credit markets and 
volatile  equity  have  combined  with  declines  in  consumer  spending  to  increase  the  uncertainty  inherent  in  these  estimates  and 
assumptions. As future events cannot be determined with precision, actual results could differ significantly from our estimates. 

Adequacy of the Allowance for Loan Losses 

The allowance for loan losses represents management’s estimate of probable credit losses inherent in the loan portfolio. Determining the 
amount of the allowance for loan losses is considered a critical accounting estimate because it requires significant judgment and the use 
of subjective measurements including management’s assessment of the internal risk classifications of loans, changes in the nature of the 
loan portfolio, industry concentrations, existing economic conditions, the fair value of underlying collateral, and other qualitative and 
quantitative factors which could affect probable credit losses. Because current economic conditions and borrower strength can change, 
and future events are inherently difficult to predict, the anticipated amount of estimated loan losses, and therefore the appropriateness of 
the allowance for loan losses, could change significantly. As an integral part of their examination process, various regulatory agencies 
also review the allowance for loan losses. Such agencies may require additions to the allowance for loan losses or may require that 
certain loan balances be charged off or downgraded into criticized loan categories when their credit evaluations differ from those of 
management, based on their judgments about information available to them at the time of their examination. We believe the level of the 
allowance for loan losses is appropriate as recorded in the consolidated financial statements. 

For additional discussion related to our accounting policies for the allowance for loan losses, see the sections titled “Allowance for Loan 
Losses” in Part II, Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and Note 1, 
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, of the notes to consolidated financial statements. 

Valuation of Goodwill 

Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of net assets acquired in accordance with the purchase method of 
accounting for business combinations. Goodwill has an indefinite useful life and is not amortized but is tested for impairment. GAAP 
requires  goodwill  to  be  tested  for  impairment  at  our  reporting  unit  level  on  an  annual  basis  and  more  frequently  if  events  or 
circumstances indicate that there may be impairment. We test goodwill for impairment as of October 1st of each year. 

Impairment exists when a reporting unit’s carrying value of goodwill exceeds its fair value. In testing goodwill for impairment, GAAP 
permits us to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less 
than its carrying value. If, after assessing the totality of events and circumstances, we determine it is not more likely than not that the fair 
value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value, no further testing is performed. However, if we conclude otherwise, we would 
then be required to perform a goodwill impairment test by comparing the fair value of the reporting unit with its carrying value.    If the 
carrying value of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, a goodwill impairment charge is recognized for the difference, but not to 
exceed the amount of goodwill allocated to the reporting unit. 

-(cid:3)58 - 

 
 
 
 
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS 

Valuation of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities 

The determination of deferred tax expense or benefit is based on changes in the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities that generate 
temporary differences. The carrying value of our net deferred tax assets or liabilities assumes that we will be able to generate sufficient 
future  taxable income  based on  estimates  and  assumptions  (after consideration of historical  taxable income  as  well  as  tax planning 
strategies). If these estimates and related assumptions change, we may be required to record valuation allowances against our deferred 
tax assets and liabilities resulting in additional income tax expense or benefit in the consolidated statements of income. We evaluate 
deferred tax assets and liabilities on a quarterly basis and assess the need for a valuation allowance, if any. A valuation allowance is 
established when management believes that it is more likely than not that some portion of its deferred tax assets and liabilities will not be 
realized. Changes in valuation allowance from period to period are included in our tax provision in the period of change. For additional 
discussion  related  to  our  accounting  policy  for  income  taxes  see  Note  16,  Income  Taxes,  of  the  notes  to  consolidated  financial 
statements. 

Defined Benefit Pension Plan 

We have a defined benefit pension plan covering substantially all employees. For employees hired prior to December 31, 2006, who met 
participation requirements on or before January 1, 2008 (“Tier 1 Participant”), the benefits are generally based on years of service and 
the employee’s highest average compensation during five consecutive years of employment. For eligible employees who were hired on 
and after January 1, 2007 (“Tier 2 Participant”), the benefits are generally based on a cash balance benefit formula. Assumptions are 
made  concerning  future  events  that  will  determine  the  amount  and  timing  of  required  benefit  payments,  funding  requirements  and 
defined benefit pension expense. The major assumptions are the weighted average discount rate used in determining the current benefit 
obligation, the weighted average expected long-term rate of return on plan assets, the rate of compensation increase and the estimated 
mortality rate. The weighted average discount rate was based upon the projected benefit cash flows and the market yields of high grade 
corporate bonds that are available to pay such cash flows as of the measurement date, December 31. The weighted average expected 
long-term rate of return is estimated based on current trends experienced by the assets in the plan as well as projected future rates of 
return on those assets and reasonable actuarial assumptions for long term inflation, and the real and nominal rate of investment return for 
a specific mix of asset classes. The current target asset allocation model for the plans is detailed in Note 18 to the consolidated financial 
statements. The expected returns on these various asset categories are blended to derive one long-term return assumption. The assets are 
invested in certain collective investment and mutual funds, common stocks, U.S. Treasury and other U.S. government agency securities, 
and  corporate  and  municipal  bonds  and  notes.  The  rate  of  compensation  increase  is  based  on  reviewing  the  compensation  increase 
practices of other plan sponsors in similar industries and geographic areas as well as the expectation of future increases. Mortality rate 
assumptions  are  based  on  mortality  tables  published  by  third-parties  such  as  the  Society  of  Actuaries  (“SOA”),  considering  other 
available information including historical data as well as studies and publications from reputable sources. We review the pension plan 
assumptions on an annual basis with our actuarial consultants to determine if the assumptions are reasonable and adjust the assumptions 
to reflect changes in future expectations. 

The assumptions used to calculate 2018 expense for the defined benefit pension plan were a weighted average discount rate of 3.49%, a 
weighted average long-term rate of return on plan assets of 6.50% and a rate of compensation increase of 3.00%. Defined benefit pension 
expense in 2019 is expected to increase to $2.7 million from the $1.2 million recorded in 2018, primarily driven by a decrease in the 
expected return on assets, driven by overall lower plan asset values, and an increase in the amount of accumulated actuarial losses to be 
amortized. 

Due to the long-term nature of pension plan assumptions, actual results may differ significantly from the actuarial-based estimates. 
Differences  resulting  in  actuarial  gains  or  losses  are  required  to  be  recorded  in  shareholders’  equity  as  part  of  accumulated  other 
comprehensive loss and amortized to defined benefit pension expense in future years. For 2018, the actual return on plan assets in the 
qualified defined benefit pension plan was a loss of $4.9 million, compared to an expected return on plan assets of $5.3 million. Total 
pretax losses recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss at December 31, 2018 were $20.5 million for the defined benefit 
pension plan. Actuarial pretax net losses recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) for the year ended December 31, 2018 were 
$6.8 million for the defined benefit pension plan. 
Defined benefit pension expense is recorded in “Salaries and employee benefits” expense on the consolidated statements of income. 

RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS 

See Note 1, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Recent Accounting Pronouncements, in the notes to consolidated financial 
statements for a discussion of recent accounting pronouncements. 

-(cid:3)59 - 

 
 
 
ITEM 7A.    QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK 

Asset-Liability Management 

The principal objective of our interest rate risk management is to evaluate the interest rate risk inherent in assets and liabilities, determine 
the appropriate level of risk to us given our business strategy, operating environment, capital and liquidity requirements and performance 
objectives,  and  manage  the  risk  consistent  with  the  guidelines  approved  by  our  Board  of  Directors.  Management  is  responsible  for 
reviewing with the Board of Directors our activities and strategies, the effect of those strategies on net interest income, the fair value of 
the portfolio and the effect that changes in interest rates will have on the portfolio and exposure limits. Management has developed an 
Asset-Liability Management and Investment Policy that meets the strategic objectives and regularly reviews the activities of the Bank. 

Portfolio Composition 

Our  balance  sheet  assets  are  a  mix  of  fixed  and  variable  rate  assets  with  consumer  indirect  loans,  commercial  loans,  and  MBSs 
comprising a significant portion of our assets. Our consumer indirect loan portfolio comprised 21% of assets and is primarily fixed rate 
loans with relatively short durations. Our commercial loan portfolio totaled 35% of assets and is a combination of fixed and variable rate 
loans, lines and mortgages. The MBS portfolio, including collateralized mortgages obligations, totaled 12% of assets with durations 
averaging three to five years. 

Our liabilities are comprised primarily of deposits, which account for 86% of total liabilities. Of these deposits, the majority, or 50%, is 
in  nonpublic  variable  rate  and  noninterest  bearing  products  including  demand  (both  noninterest  and  interest-  bearing),  savings  and 
money market accounts. In addition, fixed rate nonpublic certificate of deposit products comprise 25% of total deposits. The Bank also 
has a significant amount of public deposits, which represented 25% of total deposits as of December 31, 2018. 

Net Interest Income at Risk 

A primary tool used to manage interest rate risk is “rate shock” simulation to measure the rate sensitivity. Rate shock simulation is a 
modeling technique used to estimate the impact of changes in rates on net interest income as well as economic value of equity. At 
December 31, 2018, the Bank was liability sensitive, meaning that net interest income is negatively impacted as interest rates increase 
and positively impacted as interest rates decrease. 

Net interest income at risk is measured by estimating the changes in net interest income resulting from instantaneous and sustained 
parallel shifts in interest rates of different magnitudes over a period of 12 months. The following table sets forth the estimated changes to 
net interest income over the 12-month period ending December 31, 2018 assuming instantaneous changes in interest rates for the given 
rate shock scenarios (dollars in thousands): 

(cid:3)  

Estimated change in net interest income 
% Change 

-100 bp 

$

$

1,369
1.06%

Changes in Interest Rate 
  +200 bp 
+100 bp 
  $ 
(3,143)
(2.43)%      

(6,520)
(5.04)%

$

+300 bp 

(9,972)
(7.71)%

In addition to the changes in interest rate scenarios listed above, other scenarios are typically modeled to measure interest rate risk. These 
scenarios vary depending on the economic and interest rate environment. 

The simulation referenced above is based on our assumption as to the effect of interest rate changes on assets and liabilities and assumes 
a parallel shift of the yield curve. It also includes certain assumptions about the future pricing of loans and deposits in response to 
changes in interest rates. Further, it assumes that delinquency rates would not change as a result of changes in interest rates, although 
there can be no assurance that this will be the case. While this simulation is a useful measure as to net interest income at risk due to a 
change in interest rates, it is not a forecast of the future results, does not measure the effect of changing interest rates on noninterest 
income and is based on many assumptions that, if changed, could cause a different outcome. 

-(cid:3)60 - 

 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
   
   
   
 
Economic Value of Equity At Risk 

The economic (or “fair”) value of financial instruments on our balance sheet will also vary under the interest rate scenarios previously 
discussed. This variance is measured by simulating changes in our economic value of equity (“EVE”), which is calculated by subtracting 
the  estimated  fair  value  of  liabilities  from  the  estimated  fair  value  of  assets.  Fair  values  for  financial  instruments  are  estimated  by 
discounting  projected  cash  flows  (principal  and  interest)  at  current  replacement  rates  for  each  account  type,  while  fair  values  of 
non-financial assets and liabilities are assumed to equal book value and do not vary with interest rate fluctuations. An economic value 
simulation is a static measure for balance sheet accounts at a given point in time, but this measurement can change substantially over 
time as the characteristics of our balance sheet evolve and as interest rate and yield curve assumptions are updated. 

The amount of change in economic value under different interest rate scenarios depends on the characteristics of each class of financial 
instrument, including the stated interest rate or spread relative to current market rates or spreads, the likelihood of prepayment, whether 
the rate is fixed or floating, and the maturity date of the instrument. As a general rule, fixed-rate financial assets become more valuable 
in declining rate scenarios and less valuable in rising rate scenarios, while fixed-rate financial liabilities gain in value as interest rates rise 
and lose value as interest rates decline. The longer the duration of the financial instrument, the greater the impact a rate change will have 
on its value. In our economic value simulations, estimated prepayments are factored in for financial instruments with stated maturity 
dates, and decay rates for non-maturity deposits are projected based on historical data (back-testing). 

The analysis that follows presents the estimated EVE resulting from market interest rates prevailing at a given quarter-end (“Pre-Shock 
Scenario”), and under other interest rate scenarios (each a “Rate Shock Scenario”) represented by immediate, permanent, parallel shifts 
in interest rates from those observed at December 31, 2018 and 2017. The analysis additionally presents a measurement of the interest 
rate sensitivity at December 31, 2018 and 2017. EVE amounts are computed under each respective Pre-Shock Scenario and Rate Shock 
Scenario. An increase in the EVE amount is considered favorable, while a decline is considered unfavorable. 

(cid:3)  

Rate Shock Scenario: 
Pre-Shock Scenario 

- 100 Basis Points 
+ 100 Basis Points 
+ 200 Basis Points 
+ 300 Basis Points 

December 31, 2018 

December 31, 2017 

  EVE 
$ 557,468

  Change 

568,602 $ 11,134
(33,891)
523,577
(71,670)
485,798
(110,558)
446,910

Percentage
Change  

      Change 

  EVE 
$ 578,550          
2.00% 592,527       $  13,977
544,507           (34,043)
(6.08)
507,137           (71,413)
(12.86)
468,787          (109,763)
(19.83)

Percentage
Change  

2.42%
(5.88)
(12.34)
(18.97)

The  Pre-Shock  Scenario  EVE  was  $557.5 million  at  December 31,  2018,  compared  to  $578.6 million  at  December 31,  2017.  The 
decrease  in  the  Pre-Shock  Scenario  EVE  at  December 31,  2018,  compared  to  December 31,  2017  resulted  primarily  from  a  less 
favorable  valuation  of  non-maturity  deposits  and  certain  fixed  rate  assets  that  reflected  alternative  funding  rate  changes  used  for 
discounting future cash flows. 

The +200 basis point Rate Shock Scenario EVE decreased from $507.1 million at December 31, 2017 to $485.8 million at December 31, 
2018. The percentage change in the EVE amount from the Pre-Shock Scenario to the +200 basis point Rate Shock Scenario changed 
from (12.34)% at December 31, 2017 to (12.86)% at December 31, 2018. 

-(cid:3)61 - 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest Rate Sensitivity Gap 

The following table presents an analysis of our interest rate sensitivity gap position at December 31, 2018. All interest-earning assets and 
interest-bearing liabilities are shown based on the earlier of their contractual maturity or re-pricing date. The expected maturities are 
presented on a contractual basis or, if more relevant, based on projected call dates. Investment securities are at amortized cost for both 
securities available for sale and securities held to maturity. Loans, net of deferred loan origination costs, include principal amortization 
adjusted for estimated prepayments (principal payments in excess of contractual amounts) and non-accruing loans. Because the interest 
rate sensitivity levels shown in the table could be changed by external factors such as loan prepayments and liability decay rates or by 
factors controllable by us, such as asset sales, it is not an absolute reflection of our potential interest rate risk profile (in thousands). 

(cid:3)  

INTEREST-EARNING ASSETS: 

Federal funds sold and other interest-earning deposits
Investment securities 
Loans 

Total interest-earning assets 

Cash and due from banks 
Other assets (1) 

Total assets 

Three 
Months(cid:3)
or Less

$

39,522
31,366
948,842
$ 1,019,730

INTEREST-BEARING LIABILITIES: 

Interest-bearing demand, savings and money market
Time deposits 
Borrowings 

Total interest-bearing liabilities 

$ 1,591,379
438,673
422,100
$ 2,452,152

At December(cid:3)31, 2018 

Over 
Three 
Months(cid:3)
Through(cid:3)
One Year    

Over 
One Year(cid:3)
Through(cid:3)
Five Years(cid:3)     

Over 
Five(cid:3)
Years

$

$

$

$

-
112,617
476,020
588,637

$

-      $ 
-
427,080          331,100
1,258,732          405,872
$1,685,812      $  736,972

-
433,066
47,400
480,466

$

-      $ 
148,324         
-         
$ 148,324      $ 

-
5
39,202
39,207

Noninterest-bearing deposits 
Other liabilities 
Total liabilities 
Shareholders’ equity 

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity 

Interest sensitivity gap 
Cumulative gap 
Cumulative gap ratio (2) 
Cumulative gap as a percentage of total assets 

$(1,432,422)
$(1,432,422)
41.6%
(33.2)%

108,171
$
$(1,324,251)
54.8%
(30.7)%

$1,537,488      $  697,765
$ 213,237      $  911,002

106.9 %     
4.9 %     

129.2%
21.1%

Total 

$

39,522
902,163
3,089,466
4,031,151
63,233
217,314
$4,311,698

$1,591,379
1,020,068
508,702
3,120,149
755,460
39,796
3,915,405
396,293
$4,311,698
$ 911,002

(1) 
Includes net unrealized loss on securities available for sale and allowance for loan losses. 
(2)  Cumulative total interest-earning assets divided by cumulative total interest-bearing liabilities. 

For purposes of interest rate risk management, we direct more attention on simulation modeling, such as “net interest income at risk” as 
previously discussed, rather than gap analysis. We consider the net interest income at risk simulation modeling to be more informative in 
forecasting future income at risk. 

-(cid:3)62 - 

 
 
   
   
 
         
         
         
         
   
         
         
         
         
         
         
         
 
 
ITEM 8.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA 

FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
Index to Consolidated Financial Statements 

Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting.......................................................................................

Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (on the Consolidated Financial Statements) ..............................

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (on Internal Control over Financial Reporting) ..........................

Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition at December 31, 2018 and 2017 ..................................................................

Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016.................................................

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 .......................

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 ........

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 ..........................................

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements .............................................................................................................................

Page

64

65

67

68

69

70

71

73

74

-(cid:3)63 - 

 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting 

Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting for Financial Institutions, 
Inc. and its subsidiaries (the “Company”), as such term is defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(f). The Company’s system of internal 
control over financial reporting has been designed to provide reasonable assurance to the Company’s management and board of directors 
regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation and fair presentation of financial statements for external purposes in 
accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. 

Any system of internal control over financial reporting, no matter how well designed, has inherent limitations, including the possibility 
that a control can be circumvented or overridden and misstatements due to error or fraud may occur and not be detected. Also, because of 
changes in conditions, internal control effectiveness may vary over time. Accordingly, even an effective system of internal control will 
provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation. 

The  Company’s  management  has,  including  the  Company’s  principal  executive  officer  and  principal  financial  officer  as  identified 
below, assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2018. To make this 
assessment,  we  used  the  criteria  for  effective  internal  control  over  financial  reporting  described  in  Internal  Control  –  Integrated 
Framework (2013), issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on our assessment and 
based on such criteria, we believe that, as of December 31, 2018, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting was effective. 

RSM  US  LLP,  the  Company’s  independent  registered  public  accounting  firm  that  audited  the  Company’s  consolidated  financial 
statements  as  of  and  for  the  year  ended  December  31,  2018  has  issued  a  report  on  internal  control  over  financial  reporting  as  of 
December 31, 2018. That report appears herein. 

/s/ Martin K. Birmingham 
President and Chief Executive Officer 
March 8, 2019 

/s/ Kevin B. Klotzbach
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
March 8, 2019

-(cid:3)64 - 

 
 
 
 
  
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm 

To the Shareholders and the Board of Directors of Financial Institutions, Inc. 

Opinion on the Financial Statements 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated statement of financial condition of Financial Institutions, Inc. and subsidiaries (the 
Company) as of December 31, 2018, the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, changes in shareholders’ 
equity and cash flows for the year then ended, and the related notes to the consolidated financial statements (collectively, the financial 
statements). In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the 
Company as of December 31, 2018, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the year then ended, in conformity with 
accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. 

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), 
the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2018, based on criteria established in Internal Control – 
Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission in 2013, and our report 
dated March 8, 2019 expressed an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. 

Basis for Opinion 

These  financial  statements  are  the responsibility  of  the  Company’s  management.  Our responsibility  is  to  express  an opinion on  the 
Company’s financial statements based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be 
independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of 
the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB. 

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to 
obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our 
audit included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or 
fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding 
the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audit also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant 
estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audit 
provides a reasonable basis for our opinion. 

/s/ RSM US LLP 
We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2018. 
Chicago, Illinois 
March 8, 2019 

-(cid:3)65 - 

 
 
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm 

To the Shareholders and Board of Directors 
Financial Institutions, Inc.: 

Opinion on the Consolidated Financial Statements 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated statements of financial condition of Financial Institutions, Inc. and subsidiaries (the 
Company) as of December 31, 2017, the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, changes in shareholders’ 
equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the two-year period ended December 31, 2017, and the related notes (collectively, the 
consolidated  financial  statements).  In  our  opinion,  the  consolidated  financial  statements  present  fairly,  in  all  material  respects,  the 
financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2017, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the years in the 
two-year period ended December 31, 2017, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. 

Basis for Opinion 

These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion 
on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are 
required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and 
regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB. 

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to 
obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error 
or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, 
whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test 
basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the 
accounting  principles  used  and  significant  estimates  made  by  management,  as  well  as  evaluating  the  overall  presentation  of  the 
consolidated financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion. 

/s/ KPMG LLP 
We served as the Company’s auditor from 1995 to 2017. 
Rochester, New York 
March 14, 2018 

-(cid:3)66 - 

 
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm 

To the Shareholders and the Board of Directors of Financial Institutions, Inc. 

Opinion on the Internal Control Over Financial Reporting 

We  have  audited  Financial  Institutions,  Inc.  and  subsidiaries’  (the  Company)  internal  control  over  financial  reporting  as  of 
December 31, 2018, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring 
Organizations of the Treadway Commission in 2013. In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal 
control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2018, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework 
issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission in 2013. 

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), 
the  consolidated  statement  of  financial  condition  of  the  Company  as  of  December  31,  2018,  the  related  consolidated  statements  of 
income, comprehensive income, changes in shareholders’ equity and cash flows for the year then ended, and the related notes to the 
consolidated financial statements of the Company and our report dated March 8, 2019 expressed an unqualified opinion. 

Basis for Opinion 

The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of 
the  effectiveness  of  internal  control  over  financial  reporting  in  the  accompanying  Management’s  Report  on  Internal  Control  over 
Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our 
audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in 
accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and 
the PCAOB. 

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

Definition and Limitations of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting 

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

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

/s/ RSM US LLP 
Chicago, Illinois 
March 8, 2019 

-(cid:3)67 - 

 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition 

  (in thousands, except share and per share data) 

ASSETS 

Cash and due from banks 
Securities available for sale, at fair value 
Securities held to maturity, at amortized cost (fair value of $439,581 and $512,983, 
respectively) 
Loans held for sale 
Loans (net of allowance for loan losses of $33,914 and $34,672, respectively)
Company owned life insurance 
Premises and equipment, net 
Goodwill and other intangible assets, net 
Other assets 

Total assets 

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY 

Deposits: 

Noninterest-bearing demand 
Interest-bearing demand 
Savings and money market 
Time deposits 

Total deposits 

Short-term borrowings 
Long-term borrowings, net of issuance costs of $798 and $869, respectively
Other liabilities 

Total liabilities 
Commitments and contingencies (Note 11) 
Shareholders’ equity: 

Series A 3% preferred stock, $100 par value; 1,533 shares authorized; 1,435 and 1,439 
shares issued 
Series B-1 8.48% preferred stock, $100 par value; 200,000 shares authorized; 171,847 
shares issued 

Total preferred equity 

Common stock, $0.01 par value; 50,000,000 shares authorized; 16,056,178 shares 
issued 
Additional paid-in capital 
Retained earnings 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss 
Treasury stock, at cost – 127,580 and 131,240 shares, respectively 

Total shareholders’ equity 
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity 

December 31, 

2018 

2017 

$

$

$

$

102,755        $
445,677       

446,581       
2,868       
3,052,684       
67,116       
42,839       
76,173       
75,005       
4,311,698        $

755,460        $
622,482       
968,897       
1,020,068       
3,366,907       
469,500       
39,202       
39,796       
3,915,405       

143       

17,185       
17,328       

161       
122,704       
279,867       
(21,281 )    
(2,486 )    
396,293       
4,311,698        $

99,195
524,973

516,466
2,718
2,700,345
65,288
45,189
74,703
76,333
4,105,210

718,498
634,203
1,005,317
852,156
3,210,174
446,200
39,131
28,528
3,724,033

144

17,185
17,329

161
121,058
257,078
(11,916)
(2,533)
381,177
4,105,210  

See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements. 

-(cid:3)68 - 

 
 
 
 
   
 
      
 
       
   
       
       
       
       
       
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
Consolidated Statements of Income 

  (in thousands, except per share data) 

Interest income: 

Interest and fees on loans 
Interest and dividends on investment securities 
Other interest income 

Total interest income 

Interest expense: 
Deposits 
Short-term borrowings 
Long-term borrowings 

Total interest expense 

Net interest income 
Provision for loan losses 
Net interest income after provision for loan losses 
Noninterest income: 

Service charges on deposits 
Insurance income 
ATM and debit card 
Investment advisory 
Company owned life insurance 
Investments in limited partnerships 
Loan servicing 
Income from derivative instruments, net 
Net gain on sale of loans held for sale 
Net (loss) gain on investment securities
Net gain on other assets 
Contingent consideration liability adjustment 
Other 

Total noninterest income 

Noninterest expense: 

Salaries and employee benefits 
Occupancy and equipment 
Professional services 
Computer and data processing 
Supplies and postage 
FDIC assessments 
Advertising and promotions 
Amortization of intangibles 
Goodwill impairment 
Other 

Total noninterest expense 

Income before income taxes 
Income tax expense 
Net income 
Preferred stock dividends 
Net income available to common shareholders 

Earnings per common share (Note 17): 

Basic 
Diluted 

Cash dividends declared per common share

Weighted average common shares outstanding: 

Basic 
Diluted 

See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements. 

-(cid:3)69 - 

$

$

$

$
$
$

2018 

Years ended December 31, 
2017 

2016 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 
$ 
$ 

130,703
21,601
428
152,732

19,055
8,342
2,471
29,868
122,864
8,934
113,930

7,120
4,930
6,152
8,123
1,793
1,203
441
972
796
(127)
50
-
5,025
36,478

54,643
17,338
3,912
5,122
2,032
1,975
3,582
1,257
2,350
8,665
100,876
49,532
10,006
39,526
1,461
38,065

2.39
2.39
0.96

15,910
15,956

$

$

$

$
$
$

106,282
23,755
73
130,110

11,093
3,931
2,471
17,495
112,615
13,361
99,254

7,391
5,266
5,721
6,104
1,781
110
439
131
376
1,260
37
1,200
4,914
34,730

48,675
16,293
4,083
4,935
2,003
1,817
2,171
1,170
1,575
7,791
90,513
43,471
9,945
33,526
1,462
32,064

2.13
2.13
0.85

15,044
15,085

92,296
22,917
18
115,231

8,458
1,612
2,471
12,541
102,690
9,638
93,052

7,280
5,396
5,687
5,208
2,808
300
436
-
240
2,695
313
1,170
4,227
35,760

45,215
14,529
5,782
4,451
2,047
1,735
2,097
1,249
-
7,566
84,671
44,141
12,210
31,931
1,462
30,469

2.11
2.10
0.81

14,436
14,491  

 
 
   
 
   
   
     
     
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income 

  (in thousands) 

Net income 
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax: 

Securities available for sale and transferred securities
Hedging derivative instruments 
Pension and post-retirement obligations 

Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax 
Comprehensive income 

Years ended December 31,
2017 

2016

2018

$

39,526

$ 

33,526

$

31,931

(4,494)
(276)
(4,595)
(9,365)
30,161

$ 

454
-
1,581
2,035
35,561

$

(3,033)
-
409
(2,624)
29,307  

$

See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements. 

-(cid:3)70 - 

 
 
 
   
 
   
   
   
   
   
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity 
Years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

  (in thousands, 
except per share data)(cid:3)
Balance at January 1, 2016 
Comprehensive income: 

Net income 
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax 

Common stock issued 
Share-based compensation plans: 
Share-based compensation 
Stock options exercised 
Restricted stock awards issued, net 
Excess tax benefit 
Stock awards 

Cash dividends declared: 

Series A 3% Preferred-$3.00 per share 
Series B-1 8.48% Preferred-$8.48 per share 
Common-$0.81 per share 
Balance at December 31, 2016 
Cumulative-effect adjustment 
Balance at January 1, 2017 
Comprehensive income: 

Net income 
Other comprehensive income, net of tax 

Common stock issued 
Purchase of common stock for treasury 
Repurchase of Series A 3% preferred stock 
Repurchase of Series B-1 8.48% preferred stock 
Share-based compensation plans: 
Share-based compensation 
Stock options exercised 
Restricted stock awards issued, net 
Stock awards 

Cash dividends declared: 

Series A 3% Preferred-$3.00 per share 
Series B-1 8.48% Preferred-$8.48 per share 
Common-$0.85 per share 
Balance at December 31, 2017 

Continued on next page 

Preferred 
Equity

Common 
Stock

Additional
Paid-in(cid:3)
Capital

Retained 
Earnings

Accumulated 
Other(cid:3)
Comprehensive(cid:3)
Income (Loss)(cid:3)      

Treasury 
Stock

   $  17,340    $

144    $

72,690    $ 218,920    $ 

(11,327 )    $ 

(3,923)   $

Total 
Shareholders’
Equity
293,844 

-
-
3

-
-
-
-
-

-
-
-
147    $
-
147    $

-
-
14
-
-
-

-
-
-
-

-
-
-

-
-
-
-
-

-
-
-

   $  17,340    $

-

   $  17,340    $

-
-
-
-
(5)
(6)

-
-
-
-

-
-
-

   $  17,329    $

-
-
8,097

31,931
-
-

-       
(2,624 )    
-       

845
23
24
30
46

-
-
-

-
-
-
-
-

(4)
(1,458)
(11,702)

-          
-          
-          
-       
-          

-       
-       
-       

81,755    $ 237,687    $ 

(279)

279

81,476    $ 237,966    $ 

(13,951 )    $ 
-          
(13,951 )    $ 

-
-
-

-
941
(24)
-
82

31,931
(2,624)
8,100

845
964
-
30
128

-
-
-
(2,924)   $
-
(2,924)   $

(4)
(1,458)
(11,702)
320,054 
-
320,054 

-
-
38,289
-
2
-

1,174
5
21
91

33,526
-
-
-
-
-

-
-
-
-

-
-
-

-
-
-
161    $ 121,058    $ 257,078    $ 

(4)
(1,458)
(12,952)

-          
2,035          
-          
-          
-          
-          

-          
-          
-          
-          

-
-
-
(148)
-
-

-
408
(21)
152

33,526
2,035
38,303
(148)
(3)
(6)

1,174
413
-
243

-          
-          
-          
(11,916 )    $ 

-
-
-
(2,533)   $

(4)
(1,458)
(12,952)
381,177  

See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements. 

-(cid:3)71 - 

 
 
   
      
 
          
   
   
 
   
      
 
          
   
   
   
   
   
      
 
          
   
   
   
      
 
      
 
          
      
 
      
 
      
 
      
 
      
 
      
 
      
 
          
      
 
      
 
      
 
      
 
      
 
          
      
 
      
 
      
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity (Continued) 
Years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

  (in thousands, 
except per share data)(cid:3)
Balance at December 31, 2017 
Balance carried forward 
Comprehensive income: 

Net income 
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax 

Purchase of common stock for treasury 
Repurchase of Series A 3% preferred stock 
Share-based compensation plans: 
Share-based compensation 
Stock options exercised 
Restricted stock awards issued, net 
Stock awards 

Cash dividends declared: 

Series A 3% Preferred-$3.00 per share 
Series B-1 8.48% Preferred-$8.48 per share 
Common-$0.96 per share 
Balance at December 31, 2018 

Preferred
Equity(cid:3)
   $  17,329    $

Common
Stock

Additional
Paid-in(cid:3)
Capital

Retained
Earnings    

Accumulated 
Other(cid:3)
Comprehensive(cid:3)
Income (Loss)(cid:3)       

Treasury
Stock

Total 
Shareholders’
Equity

161    $ 121,058    $ 257,078    $

(11,916 )    $ 

(2,533)   $

381,177 

-
-
-
(1)

-
-
-
-

-
-
-

   $  17,328    $

-
-
-
-

-
-
-
-

-
-
-
-

39,526
-
-
-

1,301
(19)
303
61

-
-
-
-

-
-
-

-
-
-
161    $ 122,704    $ 279,867    $

(4)
(1,457)
(15,276)

-          
(9,365 )       
-          
-          

-          
-          
-          
-          

-
-
(113)
-

-
339
(303)
124

39,526
(9,365)
(113)
(1)

1,301
320
-
185

-          
-          
-          
(21,281 )    $ 

-
-
-
(2,486)   $

(4)
(1,457)
(15,276)
396,293   

See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements. 

-(cid:3)72 - 

 
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
 
      
          
      
          
      
      
      
      
      
          
      
      
      
      
      
          
      
      
      
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows 

  (in thousands) 

Cash flows from operating activities: 

Net income 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:

Years ended December 31,
2017 

2016

2018

$

39,526        $ 

33,526

$

31,931

6,477           
2,456           
8,934           
1,301           
(10,480 )        
30,547           
(29,901 )        
(1,793 )        
(796 )        
127           
2,350           
(50 )        
13,376           
3,065           
65,139           

6,177
3,298
13,361
1,174
12,403
14,555
(15,847)
(1,781)
(376)
(1,260)
1,575
(37)
(24,505)
4,016
46,279

(44,919 )        
(28,017 )        

(86,434)
(71,479)

90,114           
96,211           
29,851           
(361,915 )        
(35 )        
590           
(2,842 )        
(4,447 )        
(225,409 )        

156,733           
23,300           
(1 )        
-           
(113 )        
320           
-           
(1,462 )        
(14,947 )        
163,830           
3,560           
99,195           
102,755        $ 

51,978
96,376
50,084
(404,905)
(52)
234
(7,740)
(676)
(372,614)

214,952
114,700
(9)
38,303
(148)
413
-
(1,462)
(12,496)
354,253
27,918
71,277
99,195

$

5,958
3,192
9,638
845
(1,718)
11,655
(11,035)
(2,808)
(240)
(2,695)
-
(313)
2,027
257
46,694

(213,413)
(126,375)

119,190
66,579
95,261
(262,684)
2,398
854
(7,619)
(868)
(326,677)

264,691
38,400
-
-
-
964
30
(1,462)
(11,484)
291,139
11,156
60,121
71,277  

$

Depreciation and amortization 
Net amortization of premiums on securities 
Provision for loan losses 
Share-based compensation 
Deferred income tax (benefit) expense 
Proceeds from sale of loans held for sale 
Originations of loans held for sale 
Increase in company owned life insurance 
Net gain on sale of loans held for sale 
Net loss (gain) on investment securities 
Goodwill impairment 
Net gain on other assets 
Decrease (increase) in other assets 
Increase in other liabilities 

Net cash provided by operating activities 

Cash flows from investing activities: 

Purchases of investment securities: 

Available for sale 
Held to maturity 

Proceeds from principal payments, maturities and calls on investment securities:

Available for sale 
Held to maturity 

Proceeds from sales of securities available for sale 
Net loan originations 
Purchases of company owned life insurance, net of benefits received
Proceeds from sales of other assets 
Purchases of premises and equipment 
Cash consideration paid for acquisition, net of cash acquired

Net cash used in investing activities 

Cash flows from financing activities: 

Net increase in deposits 
Net increase in short-term borrowings 
Repurchase of preferred stock 
Proceeds from issuance of common stock 
Purchases of common stock for treasury 
Proceeds from stock options exercised 
Excess tax benefit on share-based compensation 
Cash dividends paid to preferred shareholders 
Cash dividends paid to common shareholders 

Net cash provided by financing activities 

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents 
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period 

See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements. 
(cid:3)

-(cid:3)73 - 

 
 
   
      
           
           
           
           
           
           
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(cid:3)
(1.) 

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES 

Financial Institutions, Inc. (individually referred to herein as the “Parent Company” and together with all of its subsidiaries, collectively 
referred to herein as the “Company”) is a financial holding company organized in 1931 under the laws of New York State (“New York”). 
At December 31, 2018, the Company conducted its business through its four subsidiaries: Five Star Bank (the “Bank”), a New York 
chartered bank; SDN Insurance Agency, LLC (formerly Scott Danahy Naylon, LLC) (“SDN”), a full service insurance agency; and 
Courier Capital, LLC (“Courier Capital”) and HNP Capital, LLC (“HNP Capital”), SEC-registered investment advisory and wealth 
management  firms.  The  Company  provides  a  full  range  of  banking  and  related  financial  services  to  consumer,  commercial  and 
municipal customers through its bank and nonbank subsidiaries. 

The  accounting  and  reporting  policies  conform  to  general  practices  within  the  banking  industry  and  to  U.S.  generally  accepted 
accounting principles (“GAAP”). 

The Company has evaluated events and transactions for potential recognition or disclosure through the day the financial statements were 
issued and determined there were no material recognizable subsequent events. 
The following is a description of the Company’s significant accounting policies. 

(a.) Principles of Consolidation 

The  consolidated  financial  statements  include  the  accounts  of  the  Company  and  its  subsidiaries.  All  significant  intercompany 
accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. 

(b.) Use of Estimates 

In  preparing  the  consolidated  financial  statements  in  conformity  with  GAAP,  management  is  required  to  make  estimates  and 
assumptions that affect the reported amount of assets and liabilities as of the date of the statement of financial condition and reported 
amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Material estimates relate to the determination of the allowance for 
loan  losses,  the  carrying  value  of  goodwill  and  deferred  tax  assets,  and  assumptions  used  in  the  defined  benefit  pension  plan 
accounting. These estimates and assumptions are based on management’s best estimates and judgment and are evaluated on an 
ongoing basis using historical experience and other factors, including the current economic environment. The Company adjusts 
these estimates and assumptions when facts and circumstances dictate. As future events cannot be determined with precision, actual 
results could differ significantly from the Company’s estimates. 

(c.) Cash Flow Reporting 

Cash and cash equivalents include cash and due from banks, federal funds sold and interest-bearing deposits in other banks. Net 
cash flows are reported for loans, deposit transactions and short-term borrowings. 
Supplemental cash flow information is summarized as follows for the years ended December 31 (in thousands): 

(cid:3)  

2018 

2017 

2016 

Supplemental information: 
Cash paid for interest 
Cash paid for income taxes, net of refunds received

Noncash investing and financing activities: 

Real estate and other assets acquired in settlement of loans
Accrued and declared unpaid dividends 
Increase (decrease) in net unsettled security purchases
Common stock issued for acquisition 
Assets acquired and liabilities assumed in business combinations:

Fair value of assets acquired 
Fair value of liabilities assumed 

$

$

$

$

28,626        $ 
3,527           

14,850
13,187

642        $ 
4,187           
2,650           
-           

2,561           
128           

426
3,859
-
-

812
44

11,823
10,555

496
3,403
(170)
8,100

4,848
1,845  

-(cid:3)74 - 

 
 
 
      
   
 
           
           
           
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(1.) 

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued) 

(d.) Investment Securities 

Investment securities are classified as either available for sale or held to maturity. Debt securities that management has the positive 
intent and ability to hold to maturity are classified as held to maturity and are recorded at amortized cost. Other investment securities 
are classified as available for sale and recorded at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses excluded from earnings and reported 
as a component of comprehensive income (loss) and shareholders’ equity. 

Purchase  premiums  and  discounts  are  recognized  in  interest  income  using  the  interest  method  over  the  terms  of  the  securities. 
Securities are evaluated periodically to determine whether a decline in their fair value is other than temporary. Management utilizes 
criteria such as the current intent to hold or sell the security, the magnitude and duration of the decline and, when appropriate, 
consideration  of  negative  changes  in  expected  cash  flows,  creditworthiness,  near  term  prospects  of  issuers,  the  level  of  credit 
subordination, estimated loss severity, and delinquencies, to determine whether a 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  prospect  for  a  near-term 
recovery of value is not necessarily favorable. Declines in the fair value of investment securities below their 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  issues  or 
concerns, or the security is intended to be sold. The amount of impairment related to non-credit related factors is recognized in other 
comprehensive  income.  Gains  and  losses  on  the  sale  of  securities  are  recorded  on  the  trade  date  and  are  determined  using  the 
specific identification method. 

(e.) Loans Held for Sale and Loan Servicing Rights 

The Company generally makes the determination of whether to identify a mortgage as held for sale at the time the loan is closed 
based on the Company’s intent and ability to hold the loan. Loans held for sale are recorded at the lower of cost or market computed 
on the aggregate portfolio basis. The amount by which cost exceeds market value, if any, is accounted for as a valuation allowance 
with changes included in the determination of results of operations for the period in which the change occurs. The amount of loan 
origination costs and fees are deferred at origination and recognized as part of the gain or loss on sale of the loans, determined using 
the specific identification method, in the consolidated statements of income. 

The Company originates and sells certain residential real estate loans in the secondary market. The Company typically retains the 
right to service the mortgages upon sale. Mortgage-servicing rights (“MSRs”) represent the cost of acquiring the contractual rights 
to service loans for others. MSRs are recorded at their fair value at the time a loan is sold and servicing rights are retained. MSRs are 
reported  in  other  assets  in  the  consolidated  statements  of  financial  position  and  are  amortized  to  noninterest  income  in  the 
consolidated statements of income in proportion to and over the period of estimated net servicing income. The Company uses a 
valuation model that calculates the present value of future cash flows to determine the fair value of servicing rights. In using this 
valuation method, the Company incorporates assumptions to estimate future net servicing income, which include estimates of the 
cost to service the loan, the discount rate, an inflation rate and prepayment speeds. On a quarterly basis, the Company evaluates its 
MSRs for impairment and charges any such impairment to current period earnings. In order to evaluate its MSRs the Company 
stratifies the related mortgage loans on the basis of their predominant risk characteristics, such as interest rates, year of origination 
and  term,  using  discounted  cash  flows  and  market-based  assumptions.  Impairment  of  MSRs  is  recognized  through  a  valuation 
allowance, determined by estimating the fair value of each stratum and comparing it to its carrying value. Subsequent increases in 
fair value are adjusted through the valuation allowance, but only to the extent of the valuation allowance. 

Mortgage loan servicing includes collecting monthly mortgagor payments, forwarding payments and related accounting reports to 
investors, collecting escrow deposits for the payment of mortgagor property taxes and insurance, paying taxes and insurance from 
escrow funds when due and administrating foreclosure actions when necessary. Loan servicing income (a component of noninterest 
income in the consolidated statements of income) consists of fees earned for servicing mortgage loans sold to third parties, net of 
amortization expense and impairment losses associated with capitalized mortgage servicing assets. 

-(cid:3)75 - 

 
 
 
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(1.) 

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued) 

(f.) Loans 

Loans are classified as held for investment when management has both the intent and ability to hold the loan for the foreseeable 
future,  or  until  maturity  or  payoff.  Loans  are  carried  at  the  principal  amount  outstanding,  net  of  any  unearned  income  and 
unamortized deferred fees and costs on originated loans. Loan origination fees and certain direct loan origination costs are deferred, 
and the net amount is amortized into net interest income over the contractual life of the related loans or over the commitment period 
as an adjustment of yield. Interest income on loans is based on the principal balance outstanding  computed  using  the  effective 
interest method. 

A loan is considered delinquent when a payment has not been received in accordance with the contractual terms. The accrual of 
interest income for commercial loans is discontinued when there is a clear indication that the borrower’s cash flow may not be 
sufficient to meet payments as they become due, while the accrual of interest income for retail loans is discontinued when loans 
reach specific delinquency levels. Loans are generally placed on nonaccrual status when contractually past due 90 days or more as to 
interest or principal payments, unless the loan is well secured and in the process of collection. Additionally, if management becomes 
aware of facts or circumstances that may adversely impact the collectability of principal or interest on loans, it is management’s 
practice to place such loans on a nonaccrual status immediately, rather than delaying such action until the loans become 90 days past 
due. When a loan is placed on nonaccrual status, previously accrued and uncollected interest is reversed, amortization of related 
deferred loan fees or costs is suspended, and income is recorded only to the extent that interest payments are subsequently received 
in cash and a determination has been made that the principal balance of the loan is collectible. If collectability of the principal is in 
doubt, payments received are applied to loan principal. A nonaccrual loan may be returned to accrual status when all delinquent 
principal and interest payments become current in accordance with the terms of the loan agreement, the borrower has demonstrated 
a  period  of  sustained  performance  (generally  a  minimum  of  six  months)  and  the  ultimate  collectability  of  the  total  contractual 
principal and interest is no longer in doubt. 

The Company’s loan policy dictates the guidelines to be followed in determining when a loan is charged-off. All charge offs are 
approved by the Bank’s senior loan officers or loan committees, depending on the amount of the charge off, and are reported in 
aggregate  to  the  Bank’s  Board  of  Directors.  Commercial  business  and  commercial  mortgage  loans  are  charged-off  when  a 
determination is made that the financial condition of the borrower indicates that the loan will not be collectible in the ordinary 
course  of  business.  Residential  mortgage  loans  and  home  equities  are  generally  charged-off  or  written  down  when  the  credit 
becomes severely delinquent and the balance exceeds the fair value of the property less costs to sell. Indirect and other consumer 
loans, both secured and unsecured, are generally charged-off in full during the month in which the loan becomes 120 days past due, 
unless the collateral is in the process of repossession in accordance with the Company’s policy. 

A loan is accounted for as a troubled debt restructuring if the Company, for economic or legal reasons related to the borrower’s 
financial  condition,  grants  a  significant  concession  to  the  borrower  that  it  would  not  otherwise  consider.  A  troubled  debt 
restructuring may involve the receipt of assets from the debtor in partial or full satisfaction of the loan, or a modification of terms 
such as a reduction of the stated interest rate or face amount of the loan, a reduction of accrued interest, an extension of the maturity 
date  at  a  stated  interest rate lower  than  the  current  market  rate  for  a new  loan  with  similar  risk,  or some  combination  of  these 
concessions.  Troubled  debt  restructurings  generally  remain  on  nonaccrual  status  until  there  is  a  sustained  period  of  payment 
performance (usually six months or longer) and there is a reasonable assurance that the payments will continue. See Allowance for 
Loan Losses below for further policy discussion and see Note 5 – Loans for additional information. 

(g.) Off-Balance Sheet Financial Instruments 

In the ordinary course of business, the Company enters into off-balance sheet financial instruments consisting of commitments to 
extend credit, standby letters of credit and financial guarantees. Such financial instruments are recorded in the consolidated financial 
statements when they are funded or when related fees are incurred or received. The Company periodically evaluates the credit risks 
inherent in these commitments and establishes loss allowances for such risks if and when these are deemed necessary. 

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FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(1.) 

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued) 

The Company recognizes as liabilities the fair value of the obligations undertaken in issuing the guarantees under the standby letters 
of credit, net of the related amortization at inception. The fair value approximates the unamortized fees received from the customers 
for issuing the standby letters of credit. The fees are deferred and recognized on a straight-line basis over the commitment period. 
Standby letters of credit outstanding typically have original terms ranging from one to five years. Fees received for providing loan 
commitments and letters of credit that result in loans are typically deferred and amortized to interest income over the life of the 
related  loan, beginning with the  initial  borrowing. Fees on  commitments  and  letters of  credit  are  amortized  to other  income  as 
banking fees and commissions over the commitment period when funding is not expected. 

(h.) Allowance for Loan Losses 

The allowance for loan losses is established through charges to earnings in the form of a provision for loan losses. When a loan or 
portion  of  a  loan  is  determined  to  be  uncollectible,  the  portion  deemed  uncollectible  is  charged  against  the  allowance  and 
subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to the allowance. 

The allowance for loan losses is evaluated on a regular basis and is based upon periodic review of the collectability of the loans in 
light of historical experience, the nature and volume of the loan portfolio, adverse situations that may affect the borrower’s ability to 
repay, estimated value of any underlying collateral, and prevailing economic conditions. This evaluation is inherently subjective as 
it requires estimates that are susceptible to significant revision as more information becomes available. 

The  allowance  consists  of  specific  and  general  components.  Specific  allowances  are  established  for  impaired  loans.  Impaired 
commercial business and commercial mortgage loans are individually evaluated and measured for impairment based on the present 
value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate, a loan’s observable market price, or the fair value 
of the collateral if the loan is collateral dependent. Regardless of the measurement method, impairment is based on the fair value of 
the collateral when foreclosure is probable. If the recorded investment in impaired loans exceeds the measure of estimated fair 
value, a specific allowance is established as a component of the allowance for loan losses. Interest payments on impaired loans are 
typically applied to principal unless collectability of the principal amount is reasonably assured, in which case interest is recognized 
on a cash basis. Impaired loans, or portions thereof, are charged-off when deemed uncollectible. 

A loan is considered impaired when, based on current information and events, it is probable that the Company will be unable to 
collect the scheduled payments of principal or interest when due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. Factors 
considered in determining impairment include payment  status and the probability of collecting scheduled principal and interest 
payments  when  due.  Loans  that  experience  insignificant  payment  delays  and  payment  shortfalls  generally  are  not  classified  as 
impaired. The Company determines the significance of payment delays and payment shortfalls on a case-by-case basis, taking into 
consideration all of the circumstances surrounding the loan and the borrower, including the length of the delay, the reasons for the 
delay, the borrower’s prior payment record, and the amount of the shortfall in relation to the principal and interest owed. Impairment 
is measured on a loan by loan basis by either the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s effective 
interest rate, the loan’s obtainable market price, or the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral dependent. Large groups of 
homogeneous loans are collectively evaluated for impairment. Accordingly, the Company does not separately identify individual 
consumer  and  residential  loans  for  impairment  disclosures  unless  the  loan  has  been  subject  to  a  troubled  debt  restructure.  At 
December 31,  2018,  there  were  no  commitments  to  lend  additional  funds  to  those  borrowers  whose  loans  were  classified  as 
impaired. 

General allowances are established for loan losses on a portfolio basis for loans that are collectively evaluated for impairment. The 
portfolio  is  grouped  into  similar  risk  characteristics,  primarily  loan  type.  The  Company  applies  an  estimated  loss  rate,  which 
considers both look-back and loss emergence periods, to each loan group. The loss rate is based on historical experience, with a 
look-back period of 24 months, and as a result can differ from actual losses incurred in the future. The historical loss rate is adjusted 
by the loss emergence periods that range from 12 to 32 months depending on the loan type, and for qualitative factors such as; levels 
and trends of delinquent and non-accruing loans, trends in volume and terms, effects of changes in lending policy, the experience, 
ability and depth of management, national and local economic trends and conditions, concentrations of credit risk, interest rates, 
regulatory environment, information risk and collateral risk. The qualitative factors are reviewed at least quarterly and adjustments 
are made as needed. 

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FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(1.) 

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued) 

While management evaluates currently available information in establishing the allowance for loan losses, future adjustments to the 
allowance may be necessary if conditions differ substantially from the assumptions used in making the evaluations. In addition, 
various regulatory agencies, as an integral part of their examination process, periodically review a financial institution’s allowance 
for loan losses. Such agencies may require the financial institution to recognize additions to the allowance based on their judgments 
about information available to them at the time of their examination. 

(i.) Other Real Estate Owned 

Other real estate owned consists of properties acquired through foreclosure or by acceptance of a deed in lieu of foreclosure. These 
assets are initially recorded at fair value less estimated costs to sell, which establishes the cost basis. Subsequently, other real estate 
owned  is  carried  at  the  lower  of  the  cost  basis  or  fair  value  less  estimated  selling  costs.  At  the  time  of  foreclosure,  or  when 
foreclosure occurs in-substance, the excess, if any, of the loan over the fair market value of the assets received, less estimated selling 
costs,  is  charged  to  the  allowance  for  loan  losses  and  any  subsequent  valuation  write-downs  are  charged  to  other  expense. In 
connection with the determination of the allowance for loan losses and the valuation of other real estate owned, management obtains 
appraisals for properties. Operating costs associated with the properties are charged to expense as incurred. Gains on the sale of 
other real estate owned are included in income when title has passed and the sale has met the minimum down payment requirements 
prescribed by GAAP. The balance of other real estate owned was $230 thousand and $148 thousand at December 31, 2018 and 
2017, respectively. 

(j.) Company Owned Life Insurance 

The Company holds life insurance policies on certain current and former employees. The Company is the owner and beneficiary of 
the policies. The cash surrender value of these policies is included as an asset on the consolidated statements of financial condition, 
and any increase in cash surrender value is recorded as noninterest income on the consolidated statements of income. In the event of 
the death of an insured individual under these policies, the Company would receive a death benefit which would be recorded as 
noninterest income. 

(k.) Premises and Equipment 

Premises  and  equipment  are  stated  at  cost,  less  accumulated  depreciation  and  amortization.  Depreciation  is  computed  on  the 
straight-line  method  over  the  estimated  useful  lives  of  the  assets.  The  Company  generally  amortizes  buildings  and  building 
improvements over a period of 15 to 39 years and software, furniture and equipment over a period of 3 to 10 years. Leasehold 
improvements are amortized over the shorter of the lease term or the useful life of the improvements. Premises and equipment are 
periodically reviewed for impairment or when circumstances present indicators of impairment. 

(l.) Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets 

The excess of the cost of an acquisition over the fair value of the net assets acquired consists primarily of goodwill, core deposit 
intangibles, and other identifiable intangible assets. Intangible assets are acquired assets that lack physical substance but can be 
distinguished from goodwill because of contractual or other legal rights or because the asset is capable of being sold or exchanged 
either on  its own or  in  combination  with  a related  contract,  asset, or  liability.  The  Company’s  intangible  assets  consist  of  core 
deposits  and  other  intangible  assets  (primarily  customer  relationships).  Core  deposit  intangible  assets  are  amortized  on  an 
accelerated  basis  over  their  estimated  life  of  approximately  nine  and  a  half  years.  Other  intangible  assets  are  amortized  on  an 
accelerated basis over their weighted average estimated life of approximately twenty years. The Company reviews long-lived assets 
and certain identifiable intangibles for impairment at least annually, or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that 
the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable, in which case an impairment charge would be recorded. 

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FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(1.) 

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued) 

Goodwill is not amortized but, instead, is subject to impairment tests on at least an annual basis, and more frequently if an event 
occurs or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount. 
The  impairment  testing  process  is  conducted  by  assigning  net  assets  and  goodwill  to  each  reporting  unit.  An  initial  qualitative 
evaluation is made to assess the likelihood of impairment and determine whether further quantitative testing to calculate the fair 
value is necessary. When the qualitative evaluation indicates that impairment is more likely than not, quantitative testing is required 
whereby the fair value of each reporting unit is calculated and compared to the recorded book value. If the calculated fair value of 
the reporting unit exceeds its carrying value, then goodwill is not considered impaired. However, if the carrying value of a reporting 
unit  exceeds  its  calculated  fair  value,  a  goodwill  impairment  charge  is  recognized.  See  Note  7  for  additional  information  on 
goodwill and other intangible assets. 

(m.) Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”) and Federal Reserve Bank (“FRB”) Stock 

The non-marketable investments in FHLB and FRB stock are included in other assets in the consolidated statements of financial 
condition at par value or cost and are periodically reviewed for impairment. The dividends received relative to these investments are 
included in other noninterest income in the consolidated statements of income. 

As a member of the FHLB system, the Company is required to maintain a specified investment in FHLB of New York (“FHLBNY”) 
stock in proportion to its volume of certain transactions with the FHLB. FHLBNY stock totaled $20.3 million and $21.9 million as 
of December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. 

As a member of the FRB system, the Company is required to maintain a specified investment in FRB stock based on a ratio relative 
to the Company’s capital. FRB stock totaled $6.1 million and $5.8 million as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. 

(n.) Equity Method Investments 

The Company has investments in limited partnerships, primarily Small Business Investment Companies and Tax Credit Investment 
Partnerships, and accounts for these investments under the equity method. These investments are included in other assets in the 
consolidated  statements  of  financial  condition  and  totaled  $10.5 million  and  $5.7 million  as  of  December 31,  2018  and  2017, 
respectively. 

(o.) Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities 

Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 815, Derivatives and Hedging 
(“ASC 815”), provides the disclosure requirements for derivatives and hedging activities with the intent to provide users of financial 
statements with an enhanced understanding of: (a) how and why an entity uses derivative instruments, (b) how the entity accounts 
for derivative instruments and related hedged items, and (c) how derivative instruments and related hedged items affect an entity’s 
financial position, financial performance, and cash flows. Further, qualitative disclosures are required that explain the Company’s 
objectives and strategies for using derivatives, as well as quantitative disclosures about the fair value of and gains and losses on 
derivative instruments, and disclosures about credit-risk-related contingent features in derivative instruments. 

As required by ASC 815, the Company records all derivatives on the balance sheet at fair value. The accounting for changes in the 
fair  value  of  derivatives  depends  on  the  intended  use  of  the  derivative.  Changes  in  fair  value  of  the  Company’s  derivatives 
designated in a qualifying hedging relationship are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). Changes in fair 
value of the Company’s derivatives not designated in a qualifying hedging relationship are recognized directly in earnings. 

In accordance with the FASB’s fair value measurement guidance, the Company made an accounting policy election to measure the 
credit  risk  of  its  derivative  financial  instruments  that  are  subject  to  master  netting  agreements  on  a  net  basis  by  counterparty 
portfolio. 

(p.) Treasury Stock 

Acquisitions of treasury stock are recorded at cost. The reissuance of shares in treasury is recorded at weighted-average cost. 

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FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(1.) 

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued) 

(q.) Transfers of Financial Assets 

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

(r.) Revenue Recognition 

ASC 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (“ASC 606”), establishes principles for reporting information about the nature, 
amount,  timing  and  uncertainty  of  revenue  and  cash  flows  arising  from  the  entity’s  contracts  to  provide  goods  or  services  to 
customers. The core principle requires an entity to recognize revenue to depict the transfer of goods or services to customers in an 
amount that reflects the consideration that it expects to be entitled to receive in exchange for those goods or services recognized as 
performance obligations are satisfied. 

The  majority  of  our  revenue-generating  transactions  are  not  subject  to  ASC  606,  including  revenue  generated  from  financial 
instruments, such as our loans, letters of credit, derivatives and investment securities, as well as revenue related to our loan servicing 
activities, as these activities are subject to other GAAP. Descriptions of our primary revenue-generating activities that are within the 
scope of ASC 606, which are presented in our income statements as components of noninterest income are as follows: 

(cid:120)(cid:3) Transactions and service-based revenues - these include service charges on deposits, investment advisory, and ATM and debit 
card fees. Revenue is recognized when the transactions occur or as services are performed over primarily monthly or quarterly 
periods. Payment is typically received in the period the transactions occur or, in some cases, within 90 days of the service 
period. Fees may be fixed or, where applicable, based on a percentage of transaction size or managed assets. 

(cid:120)(cid:3)

Insurance income - Insurance commissions are received on the sale of insurance products, and revenue is recognized upon the 
placement date of the insurance policies. Payment is normally received within the policy period. In addition to placement, SDN 
also provides insurance policy related risk management services. Revenue is recognized as these services are provided. 

(s.) Employee Benefits 

The  Company  maintains  an  employer  sponsored  401(k)  plan  where  participants  may  make  contributions  in  the  form  of  salary 
deferrals  and  the  Company  may  provide  discretionary  matching  contributions  in  accordance  with  the  terms  of  the  plan. 
Contributions due under the terms of our defined contribution plans are accrued as earned by employees. 

The  Company  also  participates  in  a  non-contributory  defined  benefit  pension  plan  for  certain  employees  who  previously  met 
participation requirements. The Company also provides post-retirement benefits, principally health and dental care, to employees of 
a previously acquired entity. The Company has closed the pension and post-retirement plans to new participants. The actuarially 
determined pension benefit is based on years of service and the employee’s highest average compensation during five consecutive 
years of employment. The Company’s policy is to at least fund the minimum amount required by the Employment Retirement 
Income Security Act of 1974. The cost of the pension and post-retirement plans are based on actuarial computations of current and 
future benefits for employees and is charged to noninterest expense in the consolidated statements of income. 

The  Company  recognizes  an  asset  or  a  liability  for  a  plan’s  overfunded  status  or  underfunded  status,  respectively,  in  the 
consolidated financial statements and reports changes in the funded status as a component of other comprehensive income, net of 
applicable taxes, in the year in which changes occur. 

Effective  January 1,  2016,  the  Company’s  401(k)  plan  was  amended,  and  the  Company’s  prior  matching  contribution  was 
discontinued. Concurrent with the 401(k) plan amendment, the Company’s defined benefit pension plan was amended to modify the 
current benefit formula to reflect the discontinuance of the matching contribution in the 401(k) plan, to open the defined benefit 
pension plan up to eligible employees who were hired on and after January 1, 2007, which provides those new participants with a 
cash balance benefit formula. 

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FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(1.) 

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued) 

(t.) Share-Based Compensation Plans 

Compensation expense for stock options, restricted stock awards and restricted stock units is based on the fair value of the award on 
the measurement date, which, for the Company, is the date of grant and is recognized ratably over the service period of the award. 
The fair value of stock options is estimated using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. The fair value of restricted stock awards 
and restricted stock units is generally the market price of the Company’s stock on the date of grant. 

Share-based compensation expense is included in the consolidated statements of income under salaries and employee benefits for 
awards granted to management and in other noninterest expense for awards granted to directors. 

(u.) Income Taxes 

Income taxes are accounted for using the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future 
tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and 
their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which those 
temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities 
is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. A valuation allowance is recognized on deferred tax assets if, 
based upon  the  weight of  available  evidence,  it  is  more  likely  than not  that  some  or  all  of  the assets may  not be realized.  The 
Company recognizes interest and/or penalties related to income tax matters in income tax expense. 

(v.) Comprehensive Income (Loss) 

Comprehensive income (loss) includes all changes in shareholders’ equity during a period, except those resulting from transactions 
with shareholders. In addition to net income, other components of the Company’s comprehensive income (loss) include the after-tax 
effect of changes in net unrealized gain / loss on securities available for sale, changes in unrealized gain / loss on hedging derivative 
instruments  and  changes  in  net  actuarial  gain  /  loss  on  defined  benefit  post-retirement  plans.  Comprehensive  income  (loss)  is 
reported  in  the  accompanying  consolidated  statements  of  changes  in  shareholders’  equity  and  consolidated  statements  of 
comprehensive income (loss). See Note 14 - Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) for additional information. 

(w.) Earnings Per Common Share 

The Company calculates earnings per common share (“EPS”) using the two-class method in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 
260, “Earnings Per Share”. The two-class method requires the Company to present EPS as if all of the earnings for the period are 
distributed to common shareholders and any participating securities, regardless of whether any actual dividends or distributions are 
made.  All  outstanding  unvested  share-based  payment  awards  that  contain  rights  to  non-forfeitable  dividends  are  considered 
participating securities. 

Basic  EPS  is  computed  by  dividing  distributed  and  undistributed  earnings  available  to  common  shareholders  by  the  weighted 
average  number  of  common  shares  outstanding  for  the  period.  Distributed  and  undistributed  earnings  available  to  common 
shareholders represent net  income  reduced by  preferred  stock  dividends and  distributed  and undistributed earnings available  to 
participating securities. Common shares outstanding include common stock and vested restricted stock awards. Diluted EPS reflects 
the assumed conversion of all potential dilutive securities. A reconciliation of the weighted-average shares used in calculating basic 
earnings per common share and the weighted average common shares used in calculating diluted earnings per common share for the 
reported periods is provided in Note 17 - Earnings Per Common Share. 

(x.) Reclassifications 

Certain items in prior financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the current presentation. These reclassifications did 
not result in any changes to previously reported net income or shareholders’ equity. 

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FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(1.) 

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued) 

(y.) Recent Accounting Pronouncements 

In  May  2014,  the  FASB  issued  Accounting  Standards  Update  (“ASU”)  No. 2014-09,  Revenue  from  Contracts  with  Customers 
(Topic 606). ASU 2014-09 implements a common revenue standard that clarifies the principles for recognizing revenue. The core 
principle  of  ASU  2014-09  is  that  an  entity  should  recognize  revenue  to  depict  the  transfer  of  promised  goods  or  services  to 
customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or 
services. To achieve that core principle, an entity should apply the following steps: (i) identify the contract(s) with a customer, 
(ii) identify the performance obligations in the contract, (iii) determine the transaction price, (iv) allocate the transaction price to the 
performance obligations in the contract and (v) recognize revenue when (or as) the entity satisfies a performance obligation. The 
effective date was deferred for one year to the interim and annual periods beginning on or after December 15, 2017. Early adoption 
was  permitted  as  of  the  original  effective  date  –  interim  and  annual  periods  beginning  on  or  after  December 15,  2016.  The 
Company’s largest source of revenue is net interest income on financial assets and liabilities, which is explicitly excluded from the 
scope of ASU 2014-09. Revenue streams that are within the scope of ASU 2014-09 include insurance income, investment advisory 
fees, service charges on deposits and ATM and debit card fees. The adoption of ASU 2014-09, as of January 1, 2018, did not have a 
significant impact on the Company’s financial statements. The Company adopted ASU 2014-09 using the modified retrospective 
transition method with no cumulative effect adjustment to opening retained earnings as of January 1, 2018. 

In  January  2016,  the  FASB  issued  ASU  No. 2016-01,  Financial  Instruments  -  Overall  (Subtopic  825-10)  -  Recognition  and 
Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities. ASU 2016-01 is intended to improve the recognition and measurement 
of financial instruments by requiring equity investments to be measured at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in net 
income; requiring entities to use the exit price notion when measuring the fair value of financial instruments for disclosure purposes; 
requiring separate presentation of financial assets and financial liabilities by measurement category and form of financial asset on 
the balance sheet or the accompanying notes to the financial statements; eliminating the requirement for entities to disclose the 
method(s)  and  significant  assumptions  used  to  estimate  the  fair  value  that  is  required  to  be  disclosed  for  financial  instruments 
measured and amortized at cost on the balance sheet; and requiring an entity to present separately in other comprehensive income 
the portion of the total change in the fair value of a liability resulting from a change in the instrument-specific credit risk when the 
entity  has  elected  to  measure  the  liability  at  fair  value  in accordance  with  the fair value  option for  financial  instruments.  ASU 
2016-01 is effective for annual periods and interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2017. The 
amendments should be applied by means of a cumulative-effect adjustment to the balance sheet as of the beginning of the fiscal year 
of  adoption.  The  amendments  related  to  equity  securities  without  readily  determinable  fair  values  (including  disclosure 
requirements) should be applied prospectively to equity investments that exist as of the date of adoption. The adoption of ASU 
2016-01, as of January 1, 2018, did not have a significant impact on the Company’s financial statements, except for the fair value 
disclosures as presented in Note 19 – Fair Value Measurements. 

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842). ASU 2016-02 establishes a right of use model that 
requires a lessee to record a right of use asset and a lease liability for all leases with terms longer than 12 months. Leases will be 
classified as either finance or operating, with classification affecting the pattern of expense recognition in the income statement. For 
lessors, the guidance modifies the classification criteria and the accounting for sales-type and direct financing leases. A lease will be 
treated as a sale if it transfers all of the risks and rewards, as well as control of the underlying asset, to the lessee. If risks and rewards 
are conveyed without the transfer of control, the lease is treated as a financing. If the lessor doesn’t convey risks and rewards or 
control, an operating lease results. The amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including 
interim periods within those fiscal years for public business entities. In July 2018, ASU 2018-11 Leases: Targeted Improvements 
was issued to allow companies to choose to recognize the cumulative effect of applying the new standard as an adjustment to the 
opening balance of retained earnings rather than recasting prior year results. The adoption of ASU 2016-02, as of January 1, 2019, 
resulted  in  an  increase  of  approximately  $22.2  million  in  assets  and  approximately  $23.5  million  in  liabilities  on  its  financial 
statements from recording additional lease contracts where the Company is a lessee. 

-(cid:3)82 - 

 
 
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(1.) 

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued) 

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-13, Financial Instruments – Credit Losses (Topic 326) – Measurement of Credit 
Losses on Financial Instruments. ASU 2016-13 amends guidance on reporting credit losses for financial assets held at amortized 
cost basis and available for sale debt securities. Topic 326 eliminates the probable initial recognition threshold in current GAAP and 
instead,  requires  an  entity  to  reflect  its  current  estimate  of  all  expected  credit  losses  based  on  historical  experience,  current 
conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts. The allowance for credit losses is a valuation account that is deducted from the 
amortized cost basis of the financial assets to present the net amount expected to be collected. The guidance is effective for fiscal 
years  beginning  after  December 15,  2019,  and  interim  periods  within  those  years.  Early  adoption  is  permitted  beginning  after 
December 15, 2018. The Company is evaluating the new guidance and expects it to have an impact on the Company’s statements of 
income and financial condition, the significance of which is not yet known, nor can it be reasonably estimated currently. Due to the 
significant differences in the new authoritative guidance from existing GAAP, the implementation of this guidance may result in 
material changes in our accounting for credit losses on financial instruments and will be impacted by the Company’s loan and 
securities portfolios’ composition, attributes and quality in addition to prevailing economic conditions and forecasts at the time of 
adoption.  As  part  of  the  Company’s  evaluation  process,  it  has  established  a  steering  committee  and  working  group,  including 
individuals from various functional areas, to assess processes and related controls, portfolio segmentation, model development, 
system requirements and needed resources. 

In  August  2016,  the  FASB  issued  ASU  No. 2016-15,  Statement  of  Cash  Flows  (Topic  230)  –  Classification  of  Certain  Cash 
Receipts and Cash Payments. ASU 2016-15 provides guidance on the following eight specific cash flow issues: 1) debt prepayment 
or debt extinguishment costs; 2) settlement of zero-coupon debt instruments or other debt instruments with coupon interest rates that 
are  insignificant  in  relation  to  the  effective  interest  rate  of  the  borrowing;  3)  contingent  consideration  payments  made  after  a 
business combination; 4) proceeds from the settlement of insurance claims; 5) proceeds from the settlement of corporate-owned life 
insurance  policies,  including  bank-owned  life  insurance  policies;  6)  distributions  received  from  equity  method  investees;  7) 
beneficial interests in securitization transactions; and 8) separately identifiable cash flows and application of the predominance 
principle. The guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal 
years. Early adoption was permitted, including adoption in an interim period. The adoption of ASU 2016-15, as of January 1, 2018, 
did not have a significant impact on the Company’s financial statements. 

In March 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-07, Compensation – Retirement Benefits (Topic 715) – Improving the Presentation 
of Net Periodic Pension Cost and Net Periodic Postretirement Benefit Cost, which provides additional guidance on the presentation 
of net periodic pension and postretirement benefit costs in the income statement and on the components eligible for capitalization. 
The amendments in this ASU require that an employer report the service cost component of the net periodic benefit costs in the same 
income  statement  line  item  as  other  compensation  costs  arising  from  services  rendered  by  employees  during  the  period.  The 
non-service-cost components of net periodic benefit costs are to be presented in the income statement separately from the service 
cost components and outside a subtotal of income from operations. The ASU also allows for the capitalization of the service cost 
components, when applicable (i.e., as a cost of internally manufactured inventory or a self-constructed asset). The amendments are 
effective  for  annual  periods  beginning  after  December 15,  2017,  including  interim  periods  within  those  annual  periods;  early 
adoption was permitted as of the beginning of an annual period for which financial statements (interim or annual) have not been 
issued  or  made  available  for  issuance.  The  amendments  in  this  ASU  are  to  be  applied  retrospectively.  The  adoption  of  ASU 
2017-07, as of January 1, 2018, did not have a significant impact on the Company’s financial statements. 

-(cid:3)83 - 

 
 
 
 
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(1.) 

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued) 

In  March  2017,  the  FASB  issued  ASU  No. 2017-08,  Receivables  -  Nonrefundable  Fees  and  Other  Costs  (Subtopic  310-20)  – 
Premium  Amortization  on  Purchased  Callable  Debt  Securities.  These  amendments  shorten  the  amortization  period  for  certain 
callable debt securities held at a premium. Specifically, the amendments require the premium to be amortized to the earliest call 
date. The amendments do not require an accounting change for securities held at a discount; the discount continues to be amortized 
to maturity. The guidance is effective for public business entities for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, 
beginning after December 15, 2018. Early adoption was permitted, including adoption in an interim period. If an entity early adopts 
in an interim period, any adjustments should be reflected as of the beginning of the fiscal year that includes that interim period. The 
amendments should be applied on a modified retrospective basis, with a cumulative-effect adjustment directly to retained earnings 
as of the beginning of the period of adoption. The adoption of ASU 2017-08, as of January 1, 2019, did not have a significant impact 
on the Company’s financial statements. 

In August 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-12, Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815) – Targeted Improvements to Accounting 
for  Hedging  Activities.  These  amendments:  (a) expand  and  refine  hedge  accounting  for  both  financial  and  non-financial  risk 
components,  (b) align  the  recognition  and  presentation  of  the  effects  of  hedging  instruments  and  hedge  items  in  the  financial 
statements, and (c) include certain targeted improvements to ease the application of current guidance related to the assessment of 
hedge effectiveness. The guidance is effective for public business entities for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal 
years, beginning after December 15, 2018. Early adoption was permitted, including adoption in an interim period. If an entity early 
adopts in an interim period, any adjustments should be reflected as of the beginning of the fiscal year that includes that interim 
period. The amendments related to cash flow and net investment hedges existing at the date of adoption should be applied by means 
of a cumulative-effect adjustment to the balance sheet as of the beginning of the fiscal year of adoption. The amendments related to 
presentation and disclosure should be applied prospectively. The adoption of ASU 2017-12, as of January 1, 2019, did not have a 
significant impact on the Company’s financial statements. 

In  February  2018,  the  FASB  issued  ASU  No. 2018-02,  Income  Statement-Reporting  Comprehensive  Income  (Topic  220)  – 
Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income. ASU 2018-02 permits a reclassification 
from  accumulated  other  comprehensive  income  to  retained  earnings  for  stranded  tax  effects  resulting  from  the  TCJ  Act.  The 
guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Early 
adoption  was  permitted,  including  adoption  in  any  interim  period.  The  amendments  should  be  applied  either  in  the  period  of 
adoption or retrospectively to each period (or periods) in which the effect of the change in the federal corporate income tax rate in 
the  TCJ  Act  is  recognized.  The  adoption  of  ASU  2018-02,  as  of  January 1,  2019,  resulted  in  the  Company  reclassifying 
approximately $2.8 million from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) to retained earnings. 

-(cid:3)84 - 

 
 
 
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(2.) 
BUSINESS COMBINATIONS 
2018 Activity – HNP Capital Acquisition 

On June 1, 2018, the Company completed the acquisition of HNP Capital, a Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”)-registered 
investment advisor with approximately $344 million in assets under management as of June 30, 2018. Consideration for the acquisition 
totaled $5.1 million in cash. As a result of the acquisition, the Company recorded goodwill of $2.6 million and other intangible assets of 
$2.5 million.  The  goodwill  and  other  intangible  assets  are  expected  to  be  deductible  for  income  tax  purposes.  The  allocation  of 
acquisition cost to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed and pro forma results of operations for this acquisition have not been 
presented because the effect of this acquisition was not material to the Company’s consolidated financial statements. 

2017 Activity - Robshaw & Julian Acquisition 

On  August 31,  2017,  Courier  Capital  completed  the  acquisition  of  the  assets  of  Robshaw &  Julian  Associates,  Inc.  (“Robshaw & 
Julian”),  a  registered  investment  advisor  with  approximately  $175 million  in  assets  under  management,  which  increased  Courier 
Capital’s total assets under management to a total of approximately $1.6 billion. Consideration for the acquisition included cash and 
potential future cash bonuses contingent upon achievement of certain revenue performance targets through August 2020. As a result of 
the acquisition, Courier Capital recorded goodwill of $1.0 million and other intangible assets of $810 thousand. The goodwill and other 
intangible assets are expected to be deductible for income tax purposes. The allocation of acquisition cost to the assets acquired and 
liabilities assumed and pro forma results of operations for this acquisition have not been presented because the effect of this acquisition 
was not material to the Company’s consolidated financial statements. 

2016 Activity - Courier Capital Acquisition 

On  January 5,  2016,  the  Company  completed  the  acquisition  of  Courier  Capital  Corporation,  a  registered  investment  advisory  and 
wealth management firm with approximately $1.2 billion in assets under management at the time of acquisition. Consideration for the 
acquisition  totaled  $9.0 million  and  included  stock  of  $8.1 million  and  $918 thousand  of  cash.  The  acquisition  also  included  up  to 
$2.8 million  of  potential  future  payments  of  stock  and  up  to  $2.2 million  of  potential  future  cash  bonuses  contingent  upon  Courier 
Capital meeting certain EBITDA performance targets through 2018. In addition, the Company purchased two pieces of real property in 
Buffalo and Jamestown, New York used, but not owned by Courier Capital for total cash considerations of $1.3 million. As a result of 
the acquisition, the Company recorded goodwill of $6.0 million and other intangible assets of $3.9 million. The goodwill is not expected 
to be deductible for income tax purposes. Pro forma results of operations for this acquisition have not been presented because the effect 
of this acquisition was not material to the Company’s consolidated financial statements. 

This acquisition was accounted for under the acquisition method in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 805. Accordingly, the assets and 
liabilities,  both  tangible  and  intangible,  were  recorded  at  their  estimated  fair  values  as  of  the  acquisition  date.  The  following  table 
presents the allocation of acquisition cost to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, based on their estimated fair values. 

Cash 
Identified intangible assets 
Premises and equipment, accounts receivable and other assets
Deferred tax liability 
Other liabilities 
Net assets acquired 

    $ 

    $ 

50
3,928
870
(1,797)
(48)
3,003  

The amounts assigned to goodwill and other intangible assets for the Courier Capital acquisition are as follows: 

Goodwill 
Other intangible assets – customer relationships 
Other intangible assets – other 

(cid:3)

Amount 
allocated(cid:3)

$

$

6,015       
3,900       
28       
9,943       

Useful life 
(in years)
n/a
20
5

-(cid:3)85 - 

 
 
 
 
       
       
       
       
 
 
      
   
 
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

INVESTMENT SECURITIES 

(3.) 
The amortized cost and estimated fair value of investment securities are summarized below (in thousands). 

(cid:3)  

Amortized
Cost

Unrealized 
Gains

Unrealized
Losses(cid:3)

Fair 
Value

December(cid:3)31, 2018 
Securities available for sale: 
U.S. Government agencies and government sponsored enterprises 
Mortgage-backed securities: 

Federal National Mortgage Association 
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation 
Government National Mortgage Association 
Collateralized mortgage obligations: 

Federal National Mortgage Association 
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation 
Privately issued 

Total mortgage-backed securities 

Total available for sale securities 

Securities held to maturity: 
State and political subdivisions 
Mortgage-backed securities: 

Federal National Mortgage Association 
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation 
Government National Mortgage Association 
Collateralized mortgage obligations: 

Federal National Mortgage Association 
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation 
Government National Mortgage Association 

Total mortgage-backed securities 

Total held to maturity securities 

$

155,102

$

-       $ 

3,074

$

152,028

258,984
35,962
5,364

133
37
-
300,480
455,582

234,845

11,602
4,583
37,450

62,103
78,200
17,798
211,736
446,581

$

$

$

$

$

$

44          
13          
21          

-          
-          
767          
845          
845       $ 

6,325
1,275
76

-
-
-
7,676
10,750

876       $ 

1,211

8          
-          
14          

1          
-          
-          
23          
899       $ 

261
193
923

2,179
2,597
535
6,688
7,899

$

$

$

252,703
34,700
5,309

133
37
767
293,649
445,677

234,510

11,349
4,390
36,541

59,925
75,603
17,263
205,071
439,581

December(cid:3)31, 2017 
Securities available for sale: 
U.S. Government agencies and government sponsored enterprises
Mortgage-backed securities: 

Federal National Mortgage Association 
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation 
Government National Mortgage Association 
Collateralized mortgage obligations: 

Federal National Mortgage Association 
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation 
Privately issued 

Total mortgage-backed securities 

Total available for sale securities 

$

163,025

$

122       $ 

1,258

$

161,889

311,830
41,290
12,051

217
45
-
365,433
528,458

$

$

313          
76          
193          

1          
-          
976          
1,559          
1,681       $ 

3,220
675
12

1
-
-
3,908
5,166

$

308,923
40,691
12,232

217
45
976
363,084
524,973  

-(cid:3)86 - 

 
 
 
 
 
   
      
   
 
   
   
     
   
         
   
     
   
 
          
          
          
          
          
          
   
          
 
          
          
          
          
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(3.) 

INVESTMENT SECURITIES(cid:3)(Continued) 

(cid:3)  

December(cid:3)31, 2017 (continued) 
Securities held to maturity: 
State and political subdivisions 
Mortgage-backed securities: 

Federal National Mortgage Association 
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation 
Government National Mortgage Association 
Collateralized mortgage obligations: 

Federal National Mortgage Association 
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation 
Government National Mortgage Association 

Total mortgage-backed securities 

Total held to maturity securities 

Amortized
Cost

Unrealized 
Gains

Unrealized
Losses(cid:3)

Fair 
Value

$

283,557

$

2,317       $ 

662

$

285,212

9,732
3,213
26,841

76,432
93,810
22,881
232,909
516,466

$

$

16          
-          
-          

-          
3          
5          
24          
2,341       $ 

88
119
330

1,958
2,165
502
5,162
5,824

$

9,660
3,094
26,511

74,474
91,648
22,384
227,771
512,983  

Investment securities with a total fair value of $751.0 million and $838.4 million at December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively, were 
pledged as collateral to secure public deposits and for other purposes required or permitted by law. 
Interest and dividends on securities for the years ended December 31 are summarized as follows (in thousands): 

(cid:3)  
Taxable interest and dividends 
Tax-exempt interest and dividends 

Total interest and dividends on securities 

2018 

2017 

2016 

$

$

16,510        $ 
5,091           
21,601        $ 

17,886
5,869
23,755

Sales and calls of securities available for sale for the years ended December 31 were as follows (in thousands): 

(cid:3)  
Proceeds from sales 
Gross realized gains 
Gross realized losses 

$

2018 

2017 

29,851        $ 
73           
200           

50,084
1,266
6

-(cid:3)87 - 

$

$

$

17,025
5,892
22,917  

2016 

95,261
2,695
-  

 
 
 
 
 
   
      
   
 
 
          
 
          
          
          
 
 
 
      
   
 
 
 
 
      
   
 
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(3.) 

INVESTMENT SECURITIES(cid:3)(Continued) 

The scheduled maturities of securities available for sale and securities held to maturity at December 31, 2018 are shown below. Actual 
expected  maturities  may  differ  from  contractual  maturities  because  issuers  may  have  the  right  to  call  or  prepay  obligations  (in 
thousands). 

(cid:3)  

Debt securities available for sale: 

Due in one year or less 
Due from one to five years 
Due after five years through ten years 
Due after ten years 

Debt securities held to maturity: 

Due in one year or less 
Due from one to five years 
Due after five years through ten years 
Due after ten years 

Amortized 
Cost(cid:3)

Fair 
Value

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

40,353 
143,746 
187,690 
83,793 
455,582 

48,079 
149,885 
76,754 
171,863 
446,581 

$

$

$

$

40,005
141,408
182,642
81,622
445,677

48,143
150,339
74,641
166,458
439,581  

-(cid:3)88 - 

 
 
 
 
   
     
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

INVESTMENT SECURITIES(cid:3)(Continued) 

(3.) 
(cid:3) 
Unrealized losses on investment securities and the fair value of the related securities, aggregated by investment category and length of 
time that individual securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position as of December 31 are summarized as follows (in 
thousands): 

(cid:3)  

Less than 12 months 
Fair 
Value

Unrealized
Losses

12 months or longer 
Fair 
Value

Unrealized 
Losses(cid:3)

Total 

Fair 
Value

Unrealized
Losses

December(cid:3)31, 2018 
Securities available for sale: 
U.S. Government agencies and government sponsored 
enterprises 
Mortgage-backed securities: 

Federal National Mortgage Association 
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation 
Government National Mortgage Association 
Collateralized mortgage obligations: 

Federal National Mortgage Association 
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation 
Total mortgage-backed securities 

Total(cid:3)available(cid:3)for(cid:3)sale(cid:3)securities 

Securities held to maturity: 
State and political subdivisions 
Mortgage-backed securities: 

Federal National Mortgage Association 
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation 
Government National Mortgage Association 
Collateralized mortgage obligations: 

Federal National Mortgage Association 
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation 
Government National Mortgage Association 

Total mortgage-backed securities 

Total held to maturity securities 

Total temporarily impaired securities 

$

$

-

$

251
-
-

-
-
251
251

35,751

1,518
1,467
11,783

-
-
-
14,768
50,519
50,770

$

-

1
-
-

-
-
1
1

91

3
5
82

-
-
-
90
181
182

$ 152,028

$

3,074      $  152,028

$

3,074

247,615
33,918
4,667

56
6
286,262
438,290

6,324          247,866
33,918
1,275         
4,667
76         

-         
-         

56
6
7,675          286,513
10,749          438,541

6,325
1,275
76

-
-
7,676
10,750

49,534

1,120         

85,285

1,211

8,695
2,923
22,516

258         
188         
841         

10,213
4,390
34,299

57,973
75,603
17,263
184,973
234,507
$ 672,797

$

2,179         
2,597         
535         

57,973
75,603
17,263
6,598          199,741
7,718          285,026
18,467      $  723,567

$

261
193
923

2,179
2,597
535
6,688
7,899
18,649

December(cid:3)31, 2017 
Securities available for sale: 
U.S. Government agencies and government sponsored 
enterprises 
Mortgage-backed securities: 

Federal National Mortgage Association 
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation 
Government National Mortgage Association 
Collateralized mortgage obligations: 

Federal National Mortgage Association 
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation 
Total mortgage-backed securities 

Total(cid:3)available(cid:3)for(cid:3)sale(cid:3)securities 

$

95,046

$

571

$

31,561

$

687      $  126,607

$

1,258

201,754
20,446
2,432

-
-
224,632
319,678

1,855
192
-

-
-
2,047
2,618

67,383
15,601
880

119
8
83,991
115,552

1,365          269,137
36,047
3,312

483         
12         

1         
-         

119
8
1,861          308,623
2,548          435,230

3,220
675
12

1
-
3,908
5,166  

-(cid:3)89 - 

 
 
 
 
 
     
 
   
     
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
         
 
 
 
         
         
         
         
         
         
   
 
           
   
         
          
         
         
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(3.) 

INVESTMENT SECURITIES(cid:3)(Continued) 

(cid:3)  

Less than 12 months 
Fair 
Value 

Losses 

  Unrealized  

12 months or longer 
Fair 
Value 

  Unrealized      
Losses 

Fair 
      Value 

Total 

  Unrealized  

Losses 

December(cid:3)31, 2017 (continued) 
Securities held to maturity: 
State and political subdivisions 
Mortgage-backed securities: 

Federal National Mortgage Association 
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation 
Government National Mortgage Association 
Collateralized mortgage obligations: 

Federal National Mortgage Association 
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation 
Government National Mortgage Association 

Total mortgage-backed securities 

Total held to maturity securities 

Total temporarily impaired securities 

36,368

3,766
-
17,327

16,830
23,727
15,401
77,051
113,419
$ 433,097

$

295

29
-
136

202
337
340
1,044
1,339
3,957

14,492

367         

50,860

2,694
3,094
9,184

59         
119         
194         

6,460
3,094
26,511

57,645
66,467
5,635
144,719
159,211
$ 274,763

$

1,756         
1,828         
162         

74,475
90,194
21,036
4,118          221,770
4,485          272,630
7,033      $  707,860

$

662

88
119
330

1,958
2,165
502
5,162
5,824
10,990  

The total number of security positions in the investment portfolio in an unrealized loss position at December 31, 2018 was 571 compared 
to  411  at  December 31,  2017.  At December 31, 2018,  the Company  had positions  in  435  investment  securities  with a  fair value of 
$672.8 million and a total unrealized loss of $18.5 million that have been in a continuous unrealized loss position for more than 12 
months. At December 31, 2018, there were a total of 136 securities positions in the Company’s investment portfolio with a fair value of 
$50.8 million and a total unrealized loss of $182 thousand that had been in a continuous unrealized loss position for less than 12 months. 
At December 31, 2017, the Company had positions in 172 investment securities with a fair value of $274.8 million and a total unrealized 
loss of $7.0 million that have been in a continuous unrealized loss position for more than 12 months. At December 31, 2017, there were 
a total of 239 securities positions in the Company’s investment portfolio with a fair value of $433.1 million and a total unrealized loss of 
$4.0 million that had been in a continuous unrealized loss position for less than 12 months. The unrealized loss on investment securities 
was predominantly caused by changes in market interest rates subsequent to purchase. The fair value of most of the investment securities 
in the Company’s portfolio fluctuates as market interest rates change. 

The Company reviews investment securities on an ongoing basis for the presence of other than temporary impairment (“OTTI”) with 
formal reviews performed quarterly. When evaluating debt securities for OTTI, management considers many factors, including: (1) the 
length of time and the extent to which the fair value has been less than cost, (2) the financial condition and near-term prospects of the 
issuer, (3) whether the market decline was affected by macroeconomic conditions, and (4) whether the Company has the intention to sell 
the debt security or whether it is more likely than not that it will be required to sell the debt security before its anticipated recovery. The 
assessment of whether OTTI exists involves a high degree of subjectivity and judgment and is based on the information available to 
management. No impairment was recorded during the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016. 

Based on management’s review and evaluation of the Company’s debt securities as of December 31, 2018, the debt securities with 
unrealized losses were not considered to be OTTI. As of December 31, 2018, the Company does not have the intent to sell any of the 
securities in a loss position and believes that it is not likely that it will be required to sell any such securities before the anticipated 
recovery of amortized cost. Accordingly, as of December 31, 2018, management has concluded that unrealized losses on its investment 
securities are temporary and no further impairment loss has been realized in the Company’s consolidated statements of income. 

-(cid:3)90 - 

 
 
 
 
 
     
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
         
         
         
         
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(4.) 

LOANS HELD FOR SALE AND LOAN SERVICING RIGHTS 

Loans held for sale were entirely comprised of residential real estate loans and totaled $2.9 million and $2.7 million as of December 31, 
2018 and 2017, respectively. 

The Company sells certain qualifying newly originated or refinanced residential real estate loans on the secondary market. Residential 
real  estate  loans  serviced  for  others,  which  are  not  included  in  the  consolidated  statements  of  financial  condition,  amounted  to 
$171.5 million  and  $163.3 million  as  of  December 31,  2018  and  2017,  respectively.  In  connection  with  these  mortgage-servicing 
activities,  the  Company  administered  escrow  and  other  custodial  funds  which  amounted  to  approximately  $3.7 million  as  of 
December 31, 2018 and 2017. 
The activity in capitalized loan servicing assets is summarized as follows for the years ended December 31 (in thousands): 

(cid:3)  

2018 

2017 

2016 

Mortgage servicing assets, beginning of year 

Originations 
Amortization 

Mortgage servicing assets, end of year 

Valuation allowance 

Mortgage servicing assets, net, end of year 

$

$

990
298
(267)
1,021
-
1,021

 $ 

 $ 

1,077
231
(318)
990
-
990

$

$

1,225
150
(298)
1,077
(2)
1,075  

LOANS 

(5.) 
The Company’s loan portfolio consisted of the following at December 31 (in thousands): 

(cid:3)  

Principal 
Amount(cid:3)
Outstanding  

Net Deferred 
Loan (Fees)(cid:3)
Costs(cid:3)

  Loans, Net 

2018 
Commercial business 
Commercial mortgage 
Residential real estate loans 
Residential real estate lines 
Consumer indirect 
Other consumer 

Total 

Allowance for loan losses 

Total loans, net 

2017 
Commercial business 
Commercial mortgage 
Residential real estate loans 
Residential real estate lines 
Consumer indirect 
Other consumer 

Total 

Allowance for loan losses 

Total loans, net 

$

$

$

$

557,040
960,265
514,981
106,712
888,732
16,590
3,044,320

449,763
810,851
457,761
113,422
845,682
17,443
2,694,922

 $ 

 $ 

 $ 

 $ 

821
(2,071)
9,174
3,006
31,185
163
42,278

563
(1,943)
7,522
2,887
30,888
178
40,095

$

$

$

$

557,861
958,194
524,155
109,718
919,917
16,753
3,086,598
(33,914)
3,052,684

450,326
808,908
465,283
116,309
876,570
17,621
2,735,017
(34,672)
2,700,345  

-(cid:3)91 - 

 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
    
    
    
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
   
   
 
      
   
 
   
   
 
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
   
    
   
 
      
 
   
 
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(5.) 

LOANS (Continued) 

The Company’s significant concentrations of credit risk in the loan portfolio relate to a geographic concentration in the communities that 
the Company serves. 

Certain executive officers, directors and their business interests are customers of the Company. Transactions with these parties are based 
on the same terms as similar transactions with unrelated third parties and do not carry more than normal credit risk. Borrowings by these 
related parties amounted to $10.3 million and $6.6 million at December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. During 2018, new borrowings 
amounted  to  $7.1 million  (including  borrowings  of  executive  officers  and  directors  that  were  outstanding  at  the  time  of  their 
appointment), and repayments and other reductions were $3.4 million. 

Past Due Loans Aging 

The Company’s recorded investment, by loan class, in current and nonaccrual loans, as well as an analysis of accruing delinquent loans 
is set forth as of December 31 (in thousands): 

(cid:3)  

2018 
Commercial business 
Commercial mortgage 
Residential real estate loans 
Residential real estate lines 
Consumer indirect 
Other consumer 

Total loans, gross 

2017 
Commercial business 
Commercial mortgage 
Residential real estate loans 
Residential real estate lines 
Consumer indirect 
Other consumer 

Total loans, gross 

30-59 
Days 
Past Due    

60-89 
Days 
Past Due    

Greater
Than 90
Days

Total 
Past 
Due

    Nonaccrual        Current     

Total 
Loans 

   $ 

   $ 

   $ 

   $ 

227 $
574
1,295
102
2,424
139
4,761 $

64 $
56
1,908
349
2,806
174
5,357 $

1 $
-
242
-
698
3
944 $

36 $
375
56
-
672
15
1,154 $

- $
-
-
-
-
8
8 $

- $
-
-
-
-
11
11 $

228 $
574
1,537
102
3,122
150
5,713 $

100 $
431
1,964
349
3,478
200
6,522 $

912       $  555,900 $ 557,040
1,586           958,105
960,265
2,391           511,053
514,981
255           106,355
106,712
1,989           883,621
888,732
16,590
16,440
7,133       $ 3,031,474 $3,044,320

-          

5,344       $  444,319 $ 449,763
810,851
2,623           807,797
457,761
2,252           453,545
113,422
404           112,669
845,682
1,895           840,309
17,443
17,241
12,520       $ 2,675,880 $2,694,922  

2          

There were no loans past due greater than 90 days and still accruing interest as of December 31, 2018 and 2017. There were $8 thousand 
and $11 thousand in consumer overdrafts which were past due greater than 90 days as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. 
Consumer overdrafts are overdrawn deposit accounts which have been reclassified as loans but by their terms do not accrue interest. 

Interest income on nonaccrual loans, if recognized, is recorded using the cash basis method of accounting. There was no interest income 
recognized on nonaccrual loans during the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016. For the years ended December 31, 2018, 
2017 and 2016, estimated interest income of $294 thousand, $481 thousand, and $234 thousand, respectively, would have been recorded 
if all such loans had been accruing interest according to their original contractual terms. 

Troubled Debt Restructurings 

A modification of a loan constitutes a troubled debt restructuring (“TDR”) when a borrower is experiencing financial difficulty and the 
modification  constitutes  a  concession.  Commercial  loans  modified  in  a  TDR  may  involve  temporary  interest-only  payments,  term 
extensions, reducing the interest rate for the remaining term of the loan, extending the maturity date at an interest rate lower than the 
current  market  rate  for  new  debt  with  similar  risk,  collateral  concessions,  forgiveness  of  principal,  forbearance  agreements,  or 
substituting or adding a new borrower or guarantor. 
There were no loans modified as a TDR during the year ended December 31, 2018. 

-(cid:3)92 - 

 
 
 
 
   
   
 
      
   
     
   
     
   
     
   
     
   
         
   
     
   
 
      
      
      
      
      
   
      
          
      
     
     
     
     
          
     
 
      
      
      
      
      
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(5.) 

LOANS (Continued) 

The  following  presents,  by  loan  class,  information  related  to  loans  modified  in  a  TDR  during  the  year  ended  December 31  (in 
thousands). 

2017 
Commercial business 
Commercial mortgage 

Total 

Number of 
Contracts

1
-
1

Pre- 
Modification(cid:3)
Outstanding(cid:3)
Recorded(cid:3)
Investment(cid:3)
3,081
-
3,081

$ 

$ 

Post- 
Modification
Outstanding
Recorded(cid:3)
Investment

$

$

565
-
565  

The loans identified as TDRs by the Company during the year ended December 31, 2017 were previously reported as impaired loans 
prior to restructuring. The modifications during the year ended December 31, 2017 primarily related to collateral concessions. All loans 
restructured during the year ended December 31, 2017 were on nonaccrual status. Nonaccrual loans that are restructured remain on 
nonaccrual status but may move to accrual status after they have performed according to the restructured terms for a period of time. The 
TDR classification did not have a material impact on the Company’s determination of the allowance for loan losses because the modified 
loans were either classified as substandard, with an increased risk allowance allocation, or impaired and evaluated for a specific reserve 
both before and after restructuring. 

There were no loans modified as a TDR during the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 that defaulted during the year ended 
December 31,  2018.  For  purposes  of  this  disclosure,  a  loan  modified  as  a  TDR  is  considered  to  have  defaulted  when  the  borrower 
becomes 90 days past due. 

-(cid:3)93 - 

 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

LOANS (Continued) 

(5.) 
Impaired Loans 

Management has determined that specific commercial loans on nonaccrual status and all loans that have had their terms restructured in a 
troubled debt restructuring are impaired loans. The following table presents data on impaired loans at December 31 (in thousands): 

(cid:3)  

2018 
With no related allowance recorded: 

Commercial business 
Commercial mortgage 

With an allowance recorded: 
Commercial business 
Commercial mortgage 

2017 
With no related allowance recorded: 

Commercial business 
Commercial mortgage 

With an allowance recorded: 
Commercial business 
Commercial mortgage 

Recorded 
Investment (1)

Unpaid 
Principal(cid:3)
Balance (1)

Related 

Allowance(cid:3)      

Average 
Recorded(cid:3)
Investment

Interest 
Income(cid:3)
Recognized  

$

$

$

$

319
2,013
2,332

725
21
746
3,078

1,635
584
2,219

3,853
2,528
6,381
8,600

$

$

$

$

487
2,789
3,276

725
21
746
4,022

2,370
584
2,954

3,853
2,528
6,381
9,335

$

$

$

$

-      $ 
-         
-         

205         
1         
206         
206      $ 

-      $ 
-         
-         

2,056         
115         
2,171         
2,171      $ 

1,156
692
1,848

2,458
1,936
4,394
6,242

853
621
1,474

4,468
1,516
5,984
7,458

$

$

$

$

-
-
-

-
-
-
-

-
-
-

-
-
-
-  

(1) 

Difference between recorded investment and unpaid principal balance represents partial charge-offs. 

Credit Quality Indicators 

The Company categorizes loans into risk categories based on relevant information about the ability of borrowers to service their debt 
such as: current financial information, historical payment experience, credit documentation, public information, and current economic 
trends, among other factors such as the fair value of collateral. The Company analyzes commercial business and commercial mortgage 
loans individually by classifying the loans as to credit risk. Risk ratings are updated any time the situation warrants. The Company uses 
the following definitions for risk ratings: 

Special Mention: Loans classified as special mention have a potential weakness that deserves management’s close attention. If 
left  uncorrected,  these  potential  weaknesses  may  result  in  deterioration  of  the  repayment  prospects  for  the  loan  or  of  the 
Company’s credit position at some future date. 

Substandard: Loans classified as substandard are inadequately protected by the current net worth and paying capacity of the 
obligor or of the collateral pledged, if any. Loans so classified have a well-defined weakness or weaknesses that jeopardize the 
liquidation of the debt. They are characterized by the distinct possibility that the Company will sustain some loss if the deficiencies 
are not corrected. 

-(cid:3)94 - 

 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
   
 
 
   
        
   
 
 
   
 
         
   
         
   
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
         
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
         
 
 
 
         
   
         
   
   
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(5.) 

LOANS (Continued) 

Doubtful:  Loans  classified  as  doubtful  have  all  the  weaknesses  inherent  in  those  classified  as  substandard,  with  the  added 
characteristic that the weaknesses make collection or liquidation in full, on the basis of currently existing facts, conditions, and 
values, highly questionable and improbable. 

Loans  not  meeting  the  criteria  above  that  are  analyzed  individually  as  part  of  the  process  described  above  are  considered 
“uncriticized” or pass-rated loans and are included in groups of homogeneous loans with similar risk and loss characteristics. 

The following table sets forth the Company’s commercial loan portfolio, categorized by internally assigned asset classification, as of 
December 31 (in thousands): 

(cid:3)  

Commercial 
Business(cid:3)

Commercial 
Mortgage

2018 
Uncriticized 
Special mention 
Substandard 
Doubtful 
Total 

2017 
Uncriticized 
Special mention 
Substandard 
Doubtful 
Total 

$

$

$

$

531,756       $
16,499      
8,785      
-      

557,040       $

429,692       $
7,120      
12,951      
-      

449,763       $

943,991
10,633
5,641
-
960,265

791,127
12,185
7,539
-
810,851  

The Company utilizes payment status as a means of identifying and reporting problem and potential problem retail loans. The Company 
considers nonaccrual loans and loans past due greater than 90 days and still accruing interest to be non-performing. The following table 
sets forth the Company’s retail loan portfolio, categorized by payment status, as of December 31 (in thousands): 

(cid:3)  
2018 
Performing 
Non-performing 

Total 

2017 
Performing 
Non-performing 

Total 

Residential
Real Estate
Loans

Residential 
Real Estate(cid:3)
Lines

Consumer 
Indirect

Other 
Consumer  

$

$

$

$

512,590
2,391
514,981

455,509
2,252
457,761

$

$

$

$

106,457       $ 
255          
106,712       $ 

886,743
1,989
888,732

113,018       $ 
404          
113,422       $ 

843,787
1,895
845,682

$

$

$

$

16,582
8
16,590

17,430
13
17,443  

-(cid:3)95 - 

 
 
 
 
 
     
 
   
   
       
   
 
   
      
   
        
 
 
 
 
     
 
 
   
 
 
   
         
   
 
 
   
 
   
          
 
 
 
          
 
 
 
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

LOANS (Continued) 

(5.) 
Allowance for Loan Losses 
The following tables set forth the changes in the allowance for loan losses for the years ended December 31 (in thousands): 

(cid:3)  

2018 
Allowance for loan losses: 
Beginning balance 
Charge-offs 
Recoveries 
Provision (credit) 

Ending balance 
Evaluated for impairment: 

Individually 
Collectively 

Loans: 
Ending balance 
Evaluated for impairment: 

Individually 
Collectively 

2017 
Allowance for loan losses: 
Beginning balance 
Charge-offs 
Recoveries 
Provision (credit) 

Ending balance 
Evaluated for impairment: 

Individually 
Collectively 

Loans: 
Ending balance 
Evaluated for impairment: 

Individually 
Collectively 

Commercial
Business(cid:3)

Commercial
Mortgage

Residential
Real 
Estate(cid:3)
Loans

Residential
Real 
Estate(cid:3)
Lines

Consumer 
Indirect(cid:3)    

Other 
Consumer

Total 

 $ 

 $ 

 $ 
 $ 

15,668 $
(2,319)
509
454
14,312 $

3,696 $
(1,020)
13
2,530
5,219 $

1,322 $
(95)
159
(274)
1,112 $

180 $  13,415     $ 
(10,850 )     
(142)  
5,024        
20  
4,983        
152  
210 $  12,572     $ 

391 $

(1,308)
317
1,089

489 $

34,672
(15,734)
6,042
8,934
33,914

205 $
14,107 $

1 $
5,218 $

- $
1,112 $

- $ 

-     $ 
210 $  12,572     $ 

- $
489 $

206
33,708

 $ 

557,040 $

960,265 $

514,981 $

106,712 $  888,732     $  16,590 $3,044,320

 $ 
 $ 

1,044 $
555,996 $

2,034 $
958,231 $

- $
514,981 $

- $ 

3,078
-     $ 
106,712 $  888,732     $  16,590 $3,041,242

- $

 $ 

 $ 

 $ 
 $ 

7,225 $
(3,614)
416
11,641
15,668 $

10,315 $
(10)
262
(6,871)
3,696 $

1,478 $
(431)
130
145
1,322 $

303 $  11,311     $ 
(10,164 )     
(106)  
4,444        
60  
7,824        
(77)  
180 $  13,415     $ 

302 $
(926)
316
699
391 $

30,934
(15,251)
5,628
13,361
34,672

2,001 $
13,667 $

107 $
3,589 $

- $
1,322 $

- $ 

-     $ 
180 $  13,415     $ 

- $
391 $

2,108
32,564

 $ 

449,763 $

810,851 $

457,761 $

113,422 $  845,682     $  17,443 $2,694,922

- $ 

8,174
113,422 $  845,682     $  17,443 $2,686,748  

-     $ 

- $

 $ 
 $ 

5,322 $
444,441 $

2,852 $
807,999 $

- $
457,761 $

-(cid:3)96 - 

 
 
 
 
 
    
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
   
   
      
   
 
   
    
 
        
    
    
    
    
 
        
   
    
 
        
    
 
 
 
   
       
 
    
 
        
   
    
 
        
    
 
 
 
   
       
 
    
 
        
    
    
    
    
 
        
   
    
 
        
    
 
 
 
   
       
 
    
 
        
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

Commercial
Business

Commercial
Mortgage

Residential
Mortgage

Home 
Equity

Consumer 
Indirect(cid:3)    

Other 
Consumer

Total 

 $ 

 $ 

 $ 
 $ 

5,540 $
(943)
447
2,181
7,225 $

9,027 $
(385)
45
1,628
10,315 $

1,347 $
(289)
174
246
1,478 $

345 $
(104)
15
47
303 $

10,458     $ 
(8,748 )     
4,259        
5,342        
11,311     $ 

368 $
(607)
347
194
302 $

27,085
(11,076)
5,287
9,638
30,934

663 $
6,562 $

105 $
10,210 $

- $
1,478 $

- $
303 $

-     $ 
11,311     $ 

- $
302 $

768
30,166

 $ 

349,079 $

671,552 $

421,476 $ 119,745 $ 725,754     $  17,465 $2,305,071

 $ 
 $ 

2,052 $
347,027 $

935 $
670,617 $

- $

2,987
421,476 $ 119,745 $ 725,754     $  17,465 $2,302,084  

-     $ 

- $

- $

(5.) 

LOANS (Continued) 

(cid:3)  
2016 
Allowance for loan losses: 
Beginning balance 
Charge-offs 
Recoveries 
Provision 
Ending balance 
Evaluated for impairment: 

Individually 
Collectively 

Loans: 
Ending balance 
Evaluated for impairment: 

Individually 
Collectively 

Risk Characteristics 

Commercial business loans primarily consist of loans to small to mid-sized businesses in our market area in a diverse range of industries. 
These loans are of higher risk and typically are made on the basis of the borrower’s ability to make repayment from the cash flow of the 
borrower’s business. Further, the collateral securing the loans may depreciate over time, may be difficult to appraise and may fluctuate in 
value. The credit risk related to commercial loans is largely influenced by general economic conditions and the resulting impact on a 
borrower’s operations or on the value of underlying collateral, if any. 

Commercial  mortgage  loans  generally  have  larger  balances  and  involve  a  greater  degree  of  risk  than  residential  mortgage  loans, 
potentially resulting in higher potential losses on an individual customer basis. Loan repayment is often dependent on the successful 
operation and management of the properties, as well as on the collateral securing the loan. Economic events or conditions in the real 
estate market could have an adverse impact on the cash flows generated by properties securing the Company’s commercial real estate 
loans and on the value of such properties. 

Residential real estate loans (comprised of conventional mortgages and home equity loans) and residential real estate lines (comprised of 
home equity lines) are generally made on the basis of the borrower’s ability to make repayment from his or her employment and other 
income  but  are  secured  by  real  property  whose  value  tends  to  be  more  easily  ascertainable.  Credit  risk  for  these  types  of  loans  is 
generally influenced by general economic conditions, the characteristics of individual borrowers, and the nature of the loan collateral. 

Consumer  indirect  and  other  consumer  loans  may  entail  greater  credit  risk  than  residential  mortgage  loans  and  home  equities, 
particularly in the case of other consumer loans which are unsecured or, in the case of indirect consumer loans, secured by depreciable 
assets, such as automobiles or boats. In such cases, any repossessed collateral for a defaulted consumer loan may not provide an adequate 
source of repayment of the outstanding loan balance. In addition, consumer loan collections are dependent on the borrower’s continuing 
financial  stability,  and  thus  are  more  likely  to  be  affected  by  adverse  personal  circumstances  such  as  job  loss,  illness  or  personal 
bankruptcy. Furthermore, the application of various federal and state laws, including bankruptcy and insolvency laws, may limit the 
amount which can be recovered on such loans. 

-(cid:3)97 - 

 
 
 
 
 
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
       
   
 
 
   
 
    
        
    
    
    
    
        
   
    
        
    
 
 
 
 
       
 
    
        
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

PREMISES AND EQUIPMENT, NET 

(6.) 
Major classes of premises and equipment at December 31 are summarized as follows (in thousands): 

(cid:3)  

2018 

2017 

Land and land improvements 
Buildings and leasehold improvements 
Furniture, fixtures, equipment and vehicles 

Premises and equipment 

Accumulated depreciation and amortization 

Premises and equipment, net 

$

$

6,003        $
54,059       
39,323       
99,385       
(56,546 )    
42,839        $

6,003
52,900
38,716
97,619
(52,430)
45,189  

Depreciation  and  amortization  expense  relating  to  premises  and  equipment,  included  in  occupancy  and  equipment  expense  in  the 
consolidated statements of income, amounted to $5.1 million, $4.9 million and $4.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2018, 
2017 and 2016, respectively. 

GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS 

(7.) 
Goodwill 
Goodwill is not amortized but, instead, is subject to impairment tests on at least an annual basis, and more frequently if an event occurs 
or  circumstances  change  that  would  more  likely  than  not  reduce  the  fair  value  of  a  reporting  unit  below  its  carrying  amount.  The 
Company performs its annual impairment test of goodwill as of October 1st of each year. See Note 1 for the Company’s accounting 
policy for goodwill and other intangible assets. 

Based on its qualitative assessment performed during the 2018 annual impairment test, the Company concluded it was more likely than 
not that the fair value of its SDN reporting unit was less than its carrying value. Accordingly, the Company performed a quantitative 
assessment review for possible goodwill impairment. 
Under our quantitative assessment review for goodwill impairment, the fair value of the SDN reporting unit was calculated using income 
and market-based approaches. Based on this assessment, it was determined that the carrying value of our SDN reporting unit exceeded 
its fair value. Therefore, the Company recorded a goodwill impairment charge related to the SDN reporting unit of $2.4 million during 
the quarter ended December 31, 2018. 
The Company completed an evaluation of the contingent earn out liability related to its 2014 acquisition of SDN during the second 
quarter of 2017, resulting in a contingent consideration liability adjustment of $1.2 million. Based on this event, a goodwill impairment 
test was also performed in the second quarter of 2017. Based on its qualitative assessment, the Company concluded it was more likely 
than not that the fair value of its SDN reporting unit was less than its carrying value. Accordingly, the Company performed a quantitative 
assessment review for possible goodwill impairment. 
Under our quantitative assessment review for goodwill impairment, the fair value of the SDN reporting unit was calculated using income 
and market-based approaches. Based on this assessment, it was determined that the carrying value of our SDN reporting unit exceeded 
its fair value. Therefore, the Company recorded a goodwill impairment charge related to the SDN reporting unit of $1.6 million during 
the quarter ended June 30, 2017. 
The  results  of  the  Company’s  2018  annual  impairment  test  indicated  no  impairment  for  its  Banking  segment,  its  Courier  Capital 
reporting unit or its HNP Capital reporting unit; consequently, no goodwill impairment charge for any of them were recorded in 2018. 

The results  of the  Company’s  2017  annual impairment  test  indicated  no impairment  for  its  Banking  segment  or  its Courier  Capital 
reporting unit; consequently, no goodwill impairment charge for either was recorded in 2017. In addition, the Company’s 2017 annual 
impairment test indicated no additional impairment for the SDN reporting unit. 
The results of the Company’s 2016 annual impairment test indicated no impairment; consequently, no goodwill impairment charge was 
recorded in 2016. 

Declines in the market value of the Company’s publicly traded stock price or declines in the Company’s ability to generate future cash 
flows may increase the potential that goodwill recorded on the Company’s consolidated statement of financial condition be designated as 
impaired and that the Company may incur a goodwill write-down in the future. 

-(cid:3)98 - 

 
 
 
 
 
     
 
 
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS (Continued) 

(7.) 
The change in the balance for goodwill during the years ended December 31 was as follows (in thousands): 

(cid:3)  

Banking 

    Non-Banking     

Total 

Balance, January 1, 2017 

Impairment 
Acquisition 

Balance, December(cid:3)31, 2017 

Impairment 
Acquisition 

Balance, December(cid:3)31, 2018 

Other Intangible Assets 

$

$

48,536
-
-
48,536
-
-
48,536

$ 

$ 

17,881
(1,575)
998
17,304
(2,350)
2,572
17,526

$

$

66,417
(1,575)
998
65,840
(2,350)
2,572
66,062  

The Company has other intangible assets that are amortized, consisting of core deposit intangibles and other intangibles. Changes in the 
gross carrying amount, accumulated amortization and net book value for the years ended December 31 were as follows (in thousands): 

(cid:3)  
Core deposit intangibles: 
Gross carrying amount 
Accumulated amortization 
Net book value 

Other intangibles: 
Gross carrying amount 
Accumulated amortization 
Net book value 

2018 

2017 

$

$

$

$

2,042        $
(1,829 )    

213        $

13,883        $
(3,985 )    
9,898        $

2,042
(1,669)
373

11,378
(2,888)
8,490  

Core deposit intangible and other intangibles amortization expense was $160 thousand and $1.1 million, respectively, for the year ended 
December 31,  2018.  Core  deposit  intangible  and  other  intangibles  amortization  expense  was  $205 thousand  and  $965 thousand, 
respectively,  for  the  year  ended  December 31,  2017.  Core  deposit  intangible  and  other  intangibles  amortization  expense  was 
$251 thousand  and  $998 thousand,  respectively,  for  the  year  ended  December 31,  2016.  Estimated  amortization  expense  of  other 
intangible assets for each of the next five years is as follows: 

2019 
2020 
2021 
2022 
2023 

    $ 

1,250
1,134
1,014
923
852  

-(cid:3)99 - 

 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
 
      
 
 
       
   
       
 
       
 
 
       
       
       
       
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

DEPOSITS 

(8.) 
A summary of deposits as of December 31 are as follows (in thousands): 

(cid:3)  
Noninterest-bearing demand 
Interest-bearing demand 
Savings and money market 
Time deposits, due: 
Within one year 
One to two years 
Two to three years 
Three to four years 
Four to five years 
Thereafter 

Total time deposits 

Total deposits 

2018 

755,460        $
622,482       
968,897       

2017 

718,498
634,203
1,005,317

871,007       
91,028       
40,151       
15,956       
1,921       
5       
1,020,068       
3,366,907        $

678,352
108,653
29,994
23,988
11,169
-
852,156
3,210,174  

$

$

Time deposits in denominations of $250,000 or more at December 31, 2018 and 2017 amounted to $209.6 million and $154.0 million, 
respectively. 
Interest expense by deposit type for the years ended December 31 is summarized as follows (in thousands): 

(cid:3)  
Interest-bearing demand 
Savings and money market 
Time deposits 

Total interest expense on deposits 

2018 

2017 

2016 

$

$

1,067
2,887
15,101
19,055

$ 

$ 

897
1,487
8,709
11,093

$

$

833
1,339
6,286
8,458  

BORROWINGS 

(9.) 
The Company classifies borrowings as short-term or long-term in accordance with the original terms of the agreement. Outstanding 
borrowings are summarized as follows as of December 31 (in thousands): 

(cid:3)  
Short-term borrowings: 

Short-term FHLB borrowings 
Other 

Total short-term borrowings 

Long-term borrowings: 

Subordinated notes, net 

Total borrowings 

2018 

2017 

$

$

405,500        $
64,000       
469,500       

39,202       
508,702        $

446,200
-
446,200

39,131
485,331  

Short-term borrowings 
Short-term FHLB borrowings have original maturities of less than one year and include overnight borrowings that we typically utilize to 
address  short  term  funding  needs  as  they  arise. Short-term  FHLB  borrowings  at  December 31,  2018  consisted  of  $200.0 million  in 
overnight  borrowings  and  $205.5 million  in  short-term  advances.  Short-term  FHLB  borrowings  at  December 31,  2017  consisted  of 
$304.7 million  in  overnight  borrowings  and  $141.5 million  in  short-term  advances.  The  FHLB  borrowings  are  collateralized  by 
securities  from  the  Company’s  investment  portfolio  and  certain  qualifying  loans.  In  addition,  at December  31, 2018, we  had $64.0 
million outstanding under unsecured federal funds purchased line with various banks. At December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company’s 
borrowings had a weighted average rate of 2.64% and 1.50%, respectively. 

The Parent has a revolving line of credit with a commercial bank allowing borrowings up to $20.0 million in total as an additional source 
of working capital. At December 31, 2018 and 2017, no amounts have been drawn on the line of credit. 

-(cid:3)100 - 

 
 
 
 
 
      
 
       
 
 
 
   
   
 
   
   
 
  
 
      
 
       
       
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

BORROWINGS (Continued) 

(9.) 
Long-term borrowings 

On  April 15,  2015,  the  Company  issued  $40.0 million  of  6.0%  fixed  to  floating  rate  subordinated  notes  due  April 15,  2030  (the 
“Subordinated Notes”) in a registered public offering. The Subordinated Notes bear interest at a fixed rate of 6.0% per year, payable 
semi-annually, for the first 10 years. From April 15, 2025 to the April 15, 2030 maturity date, the interest rate will reset quarterly to an 
annual interest rate equal to the then current three-month London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) plus 3.944%, payable quarterly. The 
Subordinated Notes are redeemable by the Company at any quarterly interest payment date beginning on April 15, 2025 to maturity at 
par, plus accrued and unpaid interest. Proceeds, net of debt issuance costs of $1.1 million, were $38.9 million. The net proceeds from this 
offering were used  for general  corporate  purposes,  including  but not  limited  to,  contribution of  capital  to  the  Bank  to  support  both 
organic growth and opportunistic acquisitions. The Subordinated Notes qualify as Tier 2 capital for regulatory purposes. 

The Company adopted ASU 2015-03 that requires debt issuance costs to be reported as a direct deduction from the face value of the 
Subordinated Notes and not as a deferred charge. The debt issuance costs will be amortized as an adjustment to interest expense over 15 
years. 

(10.)  DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENT AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES 

Risk Management Objective of Using Derivatives 

The Company is exposed to certain risks arising from both its business operations and economic conditions. The Company principally 
manages  its  exposures  to  a  wide  variety  of  business  and  operational  risks  through  management  of  its  core  business  activities.  The 
Company manages economic risks, including interest rate, liquidity and credit risk, primarily by managing the amount, sources, and 
duration of its assets and liabilities, and the use of derivative financial instruments. Specifically, the Company enters into derivative 
financial instruments to manage exposures that arise from business activities that result in the receipt or payment of future known and 
uncertain cash amounts, the value of which are determined by interest rates. The Company’s derivative financial instruments are used to 
manage differences in the amount, timing, and duration of the Company’s known or expected cash receipts and its known or expected 
cash payments. 

Cash Flow Hedges of Interest Rate Risk 

The Company’s objectives in using interest rate derivatives are to add stability to interest expense and to manage its exposure to interest 
rate movements. To accomplish this objective, the Company primarily uses interest rate caps as part of its interest rate risk management 
strategy. Interest rate caps designated as cash flow hedges involve the receipt of variable amounts from a counterparty if interest rates 
rise above the strike rate on the contract in exchange for an up-front premium. During 2018, such derivatives were used to hedge the 
variable cash flows associated with short-term borrowings. 

For derivatives designated and that qualify as cash flow hedges of interest rate risk, the gain or loss on the derivative is recorded in 
accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) and subsequently reclassified into interest expense in the same period(s) during which 
the hedged transaction affects earnings. Amounts reported in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) related to derivatives will 
be reclassified to interest expense as interest payments are made on the Company’s borrowings. The ineffective portion of the change in 
fair value of the derivatives is recognized directly in earnings. The Company’s cash flow hedge derivatives did not have any hedge 
ineffectiveness  recognized  in  earnings  during  the  years  ended  December  31,  2018  and  2017.  During  the  next  twelve  months,  the 
Company estimates that $145 thousand will be reclassified as an increase to interest expense. 

Interest Rate Swaps 

The Company executes interest rate swaps with commercial banking customers to facilitate their respective risk management strategies.   
These interest rate swaps are simultaneously hedged by offsetting interest rate swaps that the Company executes with a third party, such 
that  the  Company  minimizes  its  net  risk  exposure  resulting  from  such  transactions.  As  the  interest  rate  swaps  associated  with  this 
program do not meet hedge accounting requirements, changes in the fair value of both the customer swaps and the offsetting swaps are 
recognized directly in earnings. 

-(cid:3)101 - 

 
 
 
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(10.)  DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENT AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES (Continued) 
Credit-risk-related Contingent Features 

The Company has agreements with certain of its derivative counterparties that contain one or more of the following provisions: (a) if the 
Company defaults on any of its indebtedness, including a default where repayment of the indebtedness has not been accelerated by the 
lender, the Company could also be declared in default on its derivative obligations, and (b) if the Company fails to maintain its status as 
a well-capitalized institution, the counterparty could terminate the derivative positions and the Company would be required to settle its 
obligations under the agreements. 
Mortgage Banking Derivatives 

The Company extends rate lock agreements to borrowers related to the origination of residential mortgage loans. To mitigate the interest 
rate risk inherent in these rate lock agreements when the Company intends to sell the related loan, once originated, as well as closed 
residential mortgage loans held for sale, the Company enters into forward commitments to sell individual residential mortgages. Rate 
lock agreements and forward commitments are considered derivatives and are recorded at fair value.                        (cid:3)  (cid:3) 
Fair Values of Derivative Instruments on the Balance Sheet 
The table below presents the notional amounts, respective fair values of the Company’s derivative financial instruments, as well as their 
classification on the balance sheet as of December 31 (in thousands): 

(cid:3)  

Asset derivatives 

Liability derivatives 

  Gross notional amount  

2018 

2017 

Derivatives designated as hedging 
instruments 

Cash flow hedges 
Total derivatives 

   $ 100,000
   $ 100,000

$
$

Derivatives not designated as hedging 
instruments 

Interest rate swaps 

   $  71,977

$

-
-

-

Credit contracts 

       36,670

12,282

Mortgage banking 
Total derivatives 

       7,519
   $ 116,166

3,113
$ 15,395

Balance 
sheet 
line item

Other 
assets

Other 
assets
Other 
assets
Other 
assets

Fair value 

      Balance 

Fair value 

2018 

2017 

sheet 
line item(cid:3)  

2018 

2017 

$
$

631
631

$
$

Other 
liabilities(cid:3)   $
    $

-       
-       

-
-

$
$

$ 3,113

$

-       

liabilities(cid:3)   $ 2,006

$

Other 

-

83
$ 3,196

$

Other 
liabilities(cid:3)   
Other 
liabilities(cid:3)   

-       

30       
30       

24

27
    $ 2,057

$

-
-

-

4

3
7  

Effect of Derivative Instruments on the Income Statement 
The table below presents the effect of the Company’s derivative financial instruments on the income statement for the years ended 
December 31 (in thousands): 

(cid:3)  

Undesignated derivatives 

Interest rate swaps 
Credit contracts 
Mortgage banking 
Total undesignated 

Line item of gain (loss) 
recognized in income

Gain (loss) recognized in income 

2018 

2017 

2016 

Income from derivative instruments, net
Income from derivative instruments, net
Income from derivative instruments, net

$

$

759     $ 
184        
29        
972     $ 

-
131
-
131

$

$

-
-
-
-  

-(cid:3)102 - 

 
 
 
 
    
   
 
 
   
 
     
 
   
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
    
   
 
      
       
    
   
      
       
    
      
       
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
      
   
 
   
 
       
 
 
 
 
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(11.)  COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES 
Financial Instruments with Off-Balance Sheet Risk 

The Company has financial instruments with off-balance sheet risk established in the normal course of business to meet the financing 
needs  of  its  customers.  These  financial  instruments  include  commitments  to  extend  credit  and  standby  letters  of  credit.  These 
instruments involve, to varying degrees, elements of credit and interest rate risk extending beyond amounts recognized in the financial 
statements. 

The Company’s exposure to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by the other party to the financial instrument for commitments to 
extend credit and standby letters of credit is essentially the same as that involved with extending loans to customers. The Company uses 
the same credit underwriting policies in making commitments and conditional obligations as for on-balance sheet instruments. 
Off-balance sheet commitments as of December 31 consist of the following (in thousands): 

(cid:3)  
Commitments to extend credit 
Standby letters of credit 

2018 

2017 

$

687,875        $
11,977       

661,021
12,181  

Commitments to extend credit are agreements to lend to a customer as long as there is no violation of any condition established in the 
agreement.  Commitments  generally  have  fixed  expiration  dates  or  other  termination  clauses  and  may  require  payment  of  a  fee. 
Commitments may expire without being drawn upon; therefore, the total commitment amounts do not necessarily represent future cash 
requirements. Each customer’s creditworthiness is evaluated on a case-by-case basis. The amount of collateral obtained, if any, is based 
on  management’s  credit  evaluation  of  the  borrower.  Standby  letters  of  credit  are  conditional  lending  commitments  issued  by  the 
Company to guarantee the performance of a customer to a third party. These standby letters of credit are primarily issued to support 
private borrowing arrangements. The credit risk involved in issuing standby letters of credit is essentially the same as that involved in 
extending loan facilities to customers. 

Lease Obligations 

The Company is obligated under a number of non-cancellable operating lease agreements for land, buildings and equipment. Certain of 
these  leases  provide  for  escalation  clauses  and  contain  renewal  options  calling  for  increased  rentals  if  the  lease  is  renewed.  Future 
minimum payments by year and in the aggregate, under the non-cancellable leases with initial or remaining terms of one year or more, 
are as follows at December 31, 2018 (in thousands): 

2019 
2020 
2021 
2022 
2023 
Thereafter 

   $ 

   $ 

2,495
2,345
2,152
1,842
1,655
29,232
39,721  

Rent  expense  relating  to  these  operating  leases,  included  in  occupancy  and  equipment  expense  in  the  statements  of  income,  was 
$2.9 million, $2.6 million and $2.1 million in 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively. 

Contingent Liabilities 

In  the  ordinary  course  of  business  there  are  various  threatened  and  pending  legal  proceedings  against  the  Company.  Based  on 
consultation with outside legal counsel, management believes that the aggregate liability, if any, arising from such litigation would not 
have a material adverse effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. 

-(cid:3)103 - 

 
 
 
 
 
     
 
 
 
      
      
      
      
      
   
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(12.)  REGULATORY MATTERS 
General 

The supervision and regulation of financial and bank holding companies and their subsidiaries is intended primarily for the protection of 
depositors,  the  deposit  insurance  funds  regulated  by  the  FDIC  and  the  banking  system  as  a  whole,  and  not  for  the  protection  of 
shareholders  or  creditors  of  bank  holding  companies.  The  various  bank  regulatory  agencies  have  broad  enforcement  power  over 
financial holding companies and banks, including the power to impose substantial fines, operational restrictions and other penalties for 
violations of laws and regulations and for safety and soundness considerations. 

Capital 

Banks and bank holding companies are subject to various regulatory capital requirements administered by state and federal banking 
agencies. Capital adequacy guidelines and, additionally for banks, prompt corrective action regulations, involve quantitative measures of 
assets,  liabilities,  and  certain  off-balance-sheet  items  calculated  under  regulatory  accounting  practices.  Capital  amounts  and 
classifications are also subject to qualitative judgments by regulators about components, risk weighting and other factors. 

The Basel III Capital Rules, a new comprehensive capital framework for U.S. banking organizations, became effective for the Company 
and the Bank on January 1, 2015 (subject to a phase-in period for certain provisions). Quantitative measures established by the Basel III 
Capital Rules to ensure capital adequacy require the maintenance of minimum amounts and ratios (set forth in the table that follows) of 
Common Equity Tier 1 capital (“CET1”), Tier 1 capital and Total capital (as defined in the regulations) to risk-weighted assets (as 
defined), and of Tier 1 capital to adjusted quarterly average assets (as defined). 

The Company’s and the Bank’s Common Equity Tier 1 capital includes common stock and related paid-in capital, net of treasury stock, 
and retained earnings. In connection with the adoption of the Basel III Capital Rules, we elected to opt-out of the requirement to include 
most components of accumulated other comprehensive income in Common Equity Tier 1. Common Equity Tier 1 for both the Company 
and  the  Bank  is  reduced  by  goodwill  and  other  intangible  assets,  net  of  associated  deferred  tax  liabilities,  and  subject  to  transition 
provisions. 

Tier  1  capital  includes  Common  Equity  Tier  1  capital  and  additional  Tier  1  capital.  For  the  Company,  additional  Tier  1  capital  at 
December 31, 2018 includes, subject to limitation, $17.3 million of preferred stock. 

Total capital includes Tier 1 capital and Tier 2 capital. Tier 2 capital for both the Company and the Bank includes a permissible portion 
of the allowance for loan losses. Tier 2 capital for the Company also includes qualified subordinated debt. At December 31, 2018, the 
Company’s Tier 2 capital included $39.2 million of Subordinated Notes. 

The Common Equity Tier 1, Tier 1 and Total capital ratios are calculated by dividing the respective capital amounts by risk-weighted 
assets. Risk-weighted assets are calculated based on regulatory requirements and include total assets, with certain exclusions, allocated 
by risk weight category, and certain off-balance-sheet items, among other things. The leverage ratio is calculated by dividing Tier 1 
capital by adjusted quarterly average total assets, which exclude goodwill and other intangible assets, among other things. 

The Basel III Capital Rules became fully phased in on January 1, 2019 and will require the Company and the Bank to maintain (i) a 
minimum ratio of Common Equity Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets of at least 4.5%, plus a 2.5% “capital conservation buffer” 
(which is added to the 4.5% Common Equity Tier 1 capital ratio as that buffer is phased in, effectively resulting in a minimum ratio of 
Common Equity Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets of at least 7.0% upon full implementation), (ii) a minimum ratio of Tier 1 capital 
to risk-weighted assets of at least 6.0%, plus the capital conservation buffer (which is added to the 6.0% Tier 1 capital ratio as that buffer 
is phased in, effectively resulting in a minimum Tier 1 capital ratio of 8.5% upon full implementation), (iii) a minimum ratio of Total 
capital (that is, Tier 1 plus Tier 2) to risk-weighted assets of at least 8.0%, plus the capital conservation buffer (which is added to the 
8.0%  total  capital  ratio  as  that  buffer  is  phased  in,  effectively  resulting  in  a  minimum  total  capital  ratio  of  10.5%  upon  full 
implementation) and (iv) a minimum leverage ratio of 4.0%, calculated as the ratio of Tier 1 capital to average quarterly assets. 

The  implementation  of  the  capital  conservation  buffer  began  on  January 1,  2016  at  the  0.625%  level  and  was  be  phased  in  over  a 
four-year period (increasing by that amount on each subsequent January 1, until it reached 2.5% on January 1, 2019). The Basel III 
Capital Rules also provide for a “countercyclical capital buffer” that is applicable to only certain covered institutions and does not have 
any current applicability to the Company or the Bank. The capital conservation buffer is designed to absorb losses during periods of 
economic stress and, as detailed above, effectively increases the minimum required risk-weighted capital ratios. Banking institutions 
with a ratio of Common Equity Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets below the effective minimum (4.5% plus the capital conservation 
buffer and, if applicable, the countercyclical capital buffer) will face constraints on dividends, equity repurchases and compensation 
based on the amount of the shortfall. 

-(cid:3)104 - 

 
 
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(12.)  REGULATORY MATTERS (Continued) 

The following table presents actual and required capital ratios as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 for the Company and the Bank under 
the  Basel  III  Capital  Rules.  The  minimum  required  capital  amounts  presented  include  the  minimum  required  capital  levels  as  of 
December 31,  2018  based  on  the  phase-in  provisions  of  the  Basel  III  Capital  Rules  and  the  minimum  required  capital  levels  as  of 
January 1, 2019 when the Basel III Capital Rules have been fully phased-in. Capital levels required to be considered well capitalized are 
based upon prompt corrective action regulations, as amended to reflect the changes under the Basel III Capital Rules (in thousands): 

(cid:3)  

Actual 

  Amount        Ratio 

Minimum Capital 
Required(cid:3)–(cid:3)Basel(cid:3)III(cid:3)
Phase-in Schedule
Ratio 

    Amount   

Minimum Capital 
Required(cid:3)–(cid:3)Basel(cid:3)III(cid:3)
Fully Phased-in(cid:3)
Ratio 

    Amount   

Required to be 
Considered Well(cid:3)
Capitalized

  Amount   

Ratio 

2018 
Tier 1 leverage: 
Company 
Bank 
CET1 capital: 
Company 
Bank 
Tier 1 capital: 
Company 
Bank 
Total capital: 
Company 
Bank 

2017 
Tier 1 leverage: 
Company 
Bank 
CET1 capital: 
Company 
Bank 
Tier 1 capital: 
Company 
Bank 
Total capital: 
Company 
Bank 

 $  344,283    
   372,939    

8.16% $ 168,759
168,335
8.86

4.00% $ 168,759
168,335
4.00

4.00 %   $  210,949
     210,419
4.00    

5.00%
5.00

   326,955    
   372,939    

   344,283    
   372,939    

   417,399    
   406,853    

9.70
11.09

10.21
11.09

12.38
12.10

214,936
214,286

265,509
264,706

332,940
331,933

6.38
6.38

7.88
7.88

9.88
9.88

236,008
235,294

286,581
285,715

354,012
352,942

7.00    
7.00    

     219,150
     218,488

8.50    
8.50    

     269,723
     268,908

10.50    
10.50    

     337,154
     336,135

6.50
6.50

8.00
8.00

10.00
10.00

 $  322,680    
   346,532    

8.13% $ 158,710
158,372
8.75

4.00% $ 158,710
158,372
4.00

4.00 %   $  198,387
     197,965
4.00    

5.00%
5.00

   305,351    
   346,532    

   322,680    
   346,532    

   396,483    
   381,204    

10.16
11.57

10.74
11.57

13.19
12.73

172,825
172,224

217,910
217,152

278,023
277,056

5.75
5.75

7.25
7.25

9.25
9.25

210,396
209,664

255,481
254,592

315,594
314,496

7.00    
7.00    

     195,368
     194,688

8.50    
8.50    

     240,452
     239,616

10.50    
10.50    

     300,565
     299,520

6.50
6.50

8.00
8.00

10.00
10.00  

As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company and Bank were considered “well capitalized” under all regulatory capital guidelines. 
Such determination has been made based on the Tier 1 leverage, CET1 capital, Tier 1 capital and total capital ratios. 

Federal Reserve Requirements 

The Bank is required to maintain a reserve balance at the FRB of New York. The reserve requirement for the Bank totaled $5.5 million 
as of December 31, 2018. As of December 31, 2017, the Bank was not required to maintain a reserve balance at the FRB of New York. 

Dividend Restrictions 

In  the  ordinary  course  of  business,  the  Company  is  dependent  upon  dividends  from  the  Bank  to  provide  funds  for  the  payment  of 
dividends to shareholders and to provide for other cash requirements. Banking regulations may limit the amount of dividends that may 
be paid. Approval by regulatory authorities is required if the effect of dividends declared would cause the regulatory capital of the Bank 
to fall below specified minimum levels. Approval is also required if dividends declared exceed the net profits for that year combined 
with the retained net profits for the preceding two years. 

-(cid:3)105 - 

 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
 
   
   
   
   
  
    
    
    
    
    
  
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
  
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
  
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
  
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
   
  
    
    
    
    
    
  
    
    
    
    
    
  
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
  
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
  
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
  
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
 
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(13.) 

SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY 

The Company’s authorized capital stock consists of 50,210,000 shares of capital stock, 50,000,000 of which are common stock, par 
value $0.01 per share, and 210,000 of which are preferred stock, par value $100 per share, which is designated into two classes, Class A 
of which 10,000 shares are authorized, and Class B of which 200,000 shares are authorized. There are two series of Class A preferred 
stock: Series A 3% preferred stock and the Series A preferred stock. There is one series of Class B preferred stock: Series B-1 8.48% 
preferred stock. There were 173,282 and 173,286 shares of preferred stock issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, 
respectively. 

Common Stock 
The following table sets forth the changes in the number of shares of common stock for the years ended December 31: 

(cid:3)  

  Outstanding     

Treasury 

Issued 

2018 
Shares outstanding at beginning of year 
Restricted stock awards issued 
Restricted stock awards forfeited 
Stock options exercised 
Stock awards 
Treasury stock purchases 
Shares outstanding at end of year 

2017 
Shares outstanding at beginning of year 

Common stock issued for “at-the-market” equity offering 
Restricted stock awards issued 
Restricted stock awards forfeited 
Stock options exercised 
Stock awards 
Treasury stock purchases 
Shares outstanding at end of year 

15,924,938
7,370
(23,901)
17,450
6,363
(3,622)
15,928,598

14,537,597
1,363,964
8,898
(10,359)
21,320
7,841
(4,323)
15,924,938

131,240
(7,370)
23,901
(17,450)
(6,363)
3,622
127,580

154,617
-
(8,898)
10,359
(21,320)
(7,841)
4,323
131,240

16,056,178
-
-
-
-
-
16,056,178

14,692,214
1,363,964
-
-
-
-
-
16,056,178  

On May 30, 2017, the Company entered into a sales agency agreement, with Sandler O’Neill + Partners, L.P. as sales agent, under which 
it could sell up to $40.0 million of its common stock through an “at-the-market” equity offering program. The program was completed in 
November 2017. The Company sold 1,363,964 shares of its common stock under the program at a weighted average price of $29.33, 
representing gross proceeds of approximately $40.0 million. Net proceeds received were approximately $38.3 million. The Company 
used the net proceeds of this offering to support organic growth and other general corporate purposes, including contributing capital to 
the Bank. 

-(cid:3)106 - 

 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
 
   
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY (Continued) 

(13.) 
Preferred Stock 

Series  A  3%  Preferred  Stock.  There  were  1,435  and  1,439  shares  of  Series  A  3%  preferred  stock  issued  and  outstanding  as  of 
December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. Holders of Series A 3% preferred stock are entitled to receive an annual dividend of $3.00 
per share, which is cumulative and payable quarterly. Holders of Series A 3% preferred stock have no pre-emptive right in, or right to 
purchase or  subscribe for,  any  additional  shares of  the  Company’s  capital  stock  and  have no voting rights. Dividend or  dissolution 
payments to the Class A shareholders must be declared and paid, or set apart for payment, before any dividends or dissolution payments 
can be declared and paid, or set apart for payment, to the holders of Class B preferred stock or common stock. The Series A 3% preferred 
stock is not convertible into any other of the Company’s securities. 

Series  B-1  8.48%  Preferred  Stock.  There  were  171,847  shares  of  Series  B-1  8.48%  preferred  stock  issued  and  outstanding  as  of 
December 31, 2018 and 2017. Holders of Series B-1 8.48% preferred stock are entitled to receive an annual dividend of $8.48 per share, 
which  is  cumulative  and  payable  quarterly.  Holders  of  Series  B-1  8.48%  preferred  stock  have  no  pre-emptive  right  in,  or  right  to 
purchase or subscribe for, any additional shares of the Company’s common stock and have no voting rights. Accumulated dividends on 
the  Series  B-1  8.48%  preferred  stock  do  not  bear  interest,  and  the  Series  B-1  8.48%  preferred  stock  is  not  subject  to  redemption. 
Dividend or dissolution payments to the Class B shareholders must be declared and paid, or set apart for payment, before any dividends 
or dissolution payments are declared and paid, or set apart for payment, to the holders of common stock. The Series B-1 8.48% preferred 
stock is not convertible into any other of the Company’s securities. 

-(cid:3)107 - 

 
 
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(14.)  ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) 
The following table presents the components of other comprehensive income (loss) for the years ended December 31 (in thousands): 

(cid:3)  

2018 
Securities available for sale and transferred securities: 
Change in unrealized gain (loss) during the year 
Reclassification adjustment for net gains included in net income (1)
Total securities available for sale and transferred securities

Hedging derivative instruments: 

Change in unrealized gain (loss) during the year 

Pension and post-retirement obligations: 

Net actuarial gain (loss) arising during the year 
Amortization of net actuarial loss and prior service cost included in income

Total pension and post-retirement obligations 

Other comprehensive loss 

2017 
Securities available for sale and transferred securities: 
Change in unrealized gain (loss) during the year 
Reclassification adjustment for net gains included in net income (1)
Total securities available for sale and transferred securities

Hedging derivative instruments: 

Change in unrealized gain (loss) during the year 

Pension and post-retirement obligations: 

Net actuarial gain (loss) arising during the year 
Amortization of net actuarial loss and prior service cost included in income

Total pension and post-retirement obligations 

Other comprehensive income 

2016 
Securities available for sale and transferred securities: 
Change in unrealized gain (loss) during the year 
Reclassification adjustment for net gains included in net income (1)
Total securities available for sale and transferred securities

Hedging derivative instruments: 

Change in unrealized gain (loss) during the year 

Pension and post-retirement obligations: 

Net actuarial gain (loss) arising during the year 
Amortization of net actuarial loss and prior service cost included in income

Total pension and post-retirement obligations 

Other comprehensive loss 

Pre-tax 
Amount

    Tax Effect 

Net-of-tax 
Amount

$

$

$

$

$

$

(6,547)
539
(6,008)

(369)

(6,823)
678
(6,145)
(12,522)

1,841
(1,103)
738

-

1,460
1,115
2,575
3,313

(2,146)
(2,793)
(4,939)

-

(241)
907
666
(4,273)

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

(1,650)
136
(1,514)

(93)

(1,721)
171
(1,550)
(3,157)

710
(426)
284

-

563
431
994
1,278

(828)
(1,078)
(1,906)

-

(93)
350
257
(1,649)

$

$

$

$

$

$

(4,897)
403
(4,494)

(276)

(5,102)
507
(4,595)
(9,365)

1,131
(677)
454

-

897
684
1,581
2,035

(1,318)
(1,715)
(3,033)

-

(148)
557
409
(2,624)

(1) 
Includes  amounts  related  to  the  amortization/accretion  of  unrealized  net  gains  and  losses  related  to  the  Company’s 
reclassification  of  available  for  sale  investment  securities  to  the  held  to  maturity  category.  The  unrealized  net  gains/losses  will  be 
amortized/accreted over the remaining life of the investment securities as an adjustment of yield. 

-(cid:3)108 - 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(14.)  ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (Continued) 
Activity in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax, was as follows (in thousands): 

Hedging 
Derivative 
Instruments
$

-
(276)

Securities
Available(cid:3)for(cid:3)
Sale and(cid:3)
Transferred
Securities

Pension and
Post-(cid:3)
retirement(cid:3)
Obligations

Accumulated 
Other(cid:3)
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)

$

(3,275 )    $ 
(4,897 )       

(8,641) $
(5,102)

Balance at January 1, 2018 

(cid:3)  

Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income 
(loss) 
Net current period other comprehensive loss 

Balance at December 31, 2018 

Balance at January 1, 2017 

Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income 
(loss) 
Net current period other comprehensive income 

Balance at December 31, 2017 

Balance at January 1, 2016 

Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income 
(loss) 
Net current period other comprehensive (loss) income 

Balance at December 31, 2016 

-
(276)
(276) $

403          
(4,494 )       
(7,769 )    $ 

507
(4,595)
(13,236) $

-
-

-
-
-

-
-

-
-
-

$

$

$

$

(3,729 )    $ 
1,131          

(10,222) $
897

(677 )       
454          
(3,275 )    $ 

684
1,581
(8,641) $

(696 )    $ 
(1,318 )       

(10,631) $
(148)

(1,715 )       
(3,033 )       
(3,729 )    $ 

557
409
(10,222) $

$

$

$

$

$

(11,916)
(10,275)

910
(9,365)
(21,281)

(13,951)
2,028

7
2,035
(11,916)

(11,327)
(1,466)

(1,158)
(2,624)
(13,951)

The following table presents the amounts reclassified out of each component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for the 
years ended December 31 (in thousands): 

Details About Accumulated Other 
Comprehensive Income Components(cid:3)

Realized (loss) gain on sale of investment securities 
Amortization of unrealized holding gains (losses) on 
investment securities transferred from available for sale 
to held to maturity 

Amortization(cid:3)of(cid:3)pension(cid:3)and(cid:3)post-retirement(cid:3)items: 

Prior service credit (1) 
Net actuarial losses (1) 

Amount Reclassified from
Accumulated Other(cid:3)
Comprehensive Income  

2018 

2017 

Affected Line Item in the 
Consolidated Statement of Income

$

(127) $

1,260 Net (loss) gain on investment securities

(412)
(539)
136
(403)

72
(750)
(678)
171
(507)
(910) $

Interest income 
Total before tax 
Income tax benefit (expense)

(157)
1,103
(426)
677 Net of tax 

51

Salaries and employee benefits
(1,166) Salaries and employee benefits
(1,115) Total before tax 

Income tax benefit 

431
(684) Net of tax 

(7)

Total reclassified for the period 

$

(1) 
additional information. 

These  items  are  included  in  the  computation  of  net  periodic  pension  expense.  See  Note  18  –  Employee  Benefit  Plans  for 

-(cid:3)109 - 

 
 
 
 
     
   
          
   
          
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(15.) 

SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION 

The Company maintains certain stock-based compensation plans, approved by the Company’s shareholders, that are administered by the 
Management Development and Compensation Committee (the “Compensation Committee”) of the Board. In May 2015, the Company’s 
shareholders approved the 2015 Long-Term Incentive Plan (the “2015 Plan”) to replace the 2009 Management Stock Incentive Plan and 
the 2009 Directors’ Stock Incentive Plan (collectively, the “2009 Plans”). A total of 438,076 shares transferred from the 2009 Plans were 
available  for  grant  pursuant  to  the  2015  Plan.  In  addition,  any  shares  subject  to  outstanding  awards  under  the  2009  Plans  that  are 
canceled, expired, forfeited or otherwise not issued or are settled in cash will become available for future award grants under the 2015 
Plan. As of December 31, 2018, there were approximately 278,000 shares available for grant under the 2015 Plan. 

Under the Plan, the Compensation Committee may establish and prescribe grant guidelines including various terms and conditions for 
the granting of stock-based compensation. For stock options, the exercise price of each option equals the market price of the Company’s 
stock on the date of the grant. All options expire after a period of ten years from the date of grant and generally become fully exercisable 
over a period of 3 to 5 years from the grant date. When an option recipient exercises their options, the Company issues shares from 
treasury stock and records the proceeds as additions to capital. Shares of restricted stock granted to employees generally vest over 2 to 
3 years from the grant date. Fifty percent of the shares of restricted stock granted to non-employee directors generally vests on the date of 
grant and the remaining fifty percent generally vests one year from the grant date. Vesting of the shares may be based on years of service, 
established performance measures or both. If restricted stock grants are forfeited before they vest, the shares are reacquired into treasury 
stock. Restricted stock units granted to employees generally fully vest on the third anniversary of the date of grant. 

The share-based compensation plans were established to allow for the granting of compensation awards to attract, motivate and retain 
employees, executive officers and non-employee directors who contribute to the long-term growth and profitability of the Company and 
to give such persons a proprietary interest in the Company, thereby enhancing their personal interest in the Company’s success. 

The Company awarded grants of(cid:3)restricted stock units to certain members of management during the year ended December 31, 2018. 
The awards will be earned based on the Company’s achievement of a relative total shareholder return (“TSR”) performance requirement, 
on a percentile basis, compared to the SNL Small Cap Bank & Thrifts Index over a three-year performance period ended December 31, 
2020. If earned at target level, members of management will receive up to 14,877 shares of our common stock in the aggregate, which 
will vest on February 27, 2021 assuming the recipient’s continuous service to the Company. 

The grant-date fair value of the TSR performance award granted during the year ended December 31, 2018 was determined using the 
Monte Carlo simulation model on the date of grant, assuming the following (i) expected term of 2.84 years, (ii) risk free interest rate of 
2.39%, (iii) expected dividend yield of 2.83% and (iv) expected stock price volatility over the expected term of the TSR performance 
award of 21.2%. The grant-date fair value of all other restricted stock awards is equal to the closing market price of the Company’s 
common stock on the date of grant. 

The Company granted(cid:3)additional restricted stock units to management during the year ended December 31, 2018. These awards will vest 
after completion of a three-year service requirement. If earned, members of management will receive up to 37,676 shares of our common 
stock, in the aggregate. The average market price of the restricted stock units on the date of grant was $27.76. 

During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company granted a total of 7,370 restricted shares of common stock to non-employee 
directors, of which 3,690 shares vested immediately and 3,680 shares will vest after completion of a one-year service requirement. The 
weighted average market price of the restricted stock on the date of grant was $33.90. In addition, the Company issued a total of 6,363 
shares of common stock in-lieu of cash for the annual retainer of five non-employee directors during the year ended December 31, 2018. 
The weighted average market price of the stock on the date of grant was $29.03. 

The Company awarded grants of restricted stock units to certain members of management during the year ended December 31, 2017.   
The awards will be earned based on the Company’s achievement of a TSR performance requirement, on a percentile basis, compared to 
the SNL Small Cap Bank & Thrifts Index over a three-year performance period ended December 31, 2019.    If earned at target level, 
members of management will receive up to 12,531 shares of our common stock in the aggregate, which will vest on February 22, 2020 
assuming the recipient’s continuous service to the Company. 

-(cid:3)110 - 

 
 
 
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(15.) 

SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION (Continued) 

The grant-date fair value of the TSR performance award granted during the year ended December 31, 2017 was determined using the 
Monte Carlo simulation model on the date of grant, assuming the following (i) expected term of 2.85 years, (ii) risk free interest rate of 
1.45%, (iii) expected dividend yield of 2.41% and (iv) expected stock price volatility over the expected term of the TSR performance 
award of 21.9%.    The grant-date fair value of all other restricted stock awards is equal to the closing market price of the Company’s 
common stock on the date of grant. 

The Company granted additional restricted stock units to management during the year ended December 31, 2017.    These shares will 
vest after completion of a three-year service requirement. If earned, members of management will receive up to 27,831 shares of our 
common stock, in the aggregate. The average market price of the restricted stock units on the date of grant was $31.88. 

During the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company granted a total of 8,898 restricted shares of common stock to non-employee 
directors, of which 4,454 shares vested immediately and 4,444 shares will vest after completion of a one-year service requirement.    The 
weighted average market price of the restricted stock on the date of grant was $29.47.    In addition, the Company issued a total of 7,841 
shares of common stock in-lieu of cash for the annual retainer of six non-employee directors during the year ended December 31, 2017.   
The weighted average market price of the stock on the date of grant was $30.88.     

The Company awarded grants of restricted stock units to certain members of management during the year ended December 31, 2016.   
Thirty percent of the shares subject to each grant will be earned based upon achievement of an EPS performance requirement for the 
Company’s fiscal year ended December 31, 2016.    The remaining seventy percent of the shares will be earned based on the Company’s 
achievement of a TSR performance requirement, on a percentile basis, compared to the SNL Small Cap Bank & Thrifts Index over a 
three-year performance period ended December 31, 2018.    If earned at target level, members of management will receive up to 24,084 
shares of our common stock in the aggregate, which will vest on February 24, 2019 assuming the recipient’s continuous service to the 
Company. 

The  grant-date  fair  value  of  the  TSR  portion  of  the  performance  award  granted  during  the  year  ended  December  31,  2016  was 
determined using the Monte Carlo simulation model on the date of grant, assuming the following (i) expected term of 2.85 years, (ii) risk 
free interest rate of 0.88%, (iii) expected dividend yield of 2.99% and (iv) expected stock price volatility over the expected term of the 
TSR performance award of 24.3%.    The grant-date fair value of all other restricted stock awards is equal to the closing market price of 
the Company’s common stock on the date of grant. 

The Company granted additional restricted stock units to management during the year ended December 31, 2016.    These shares will 
vest after completion of a three-year service requirement. If earned, members of management will receive up to 25,500 shares of our 
common stock, in the aggregate. The average market price of the restricted stock awards on the date of grant was $24.68. 

During the year ended December 31, 2016, the Company granted a total of 8,800 restricted shares of common stock to non-employee 
directors, of which 4,400 shares vested immediately and 4,400 shares will vest after completion of a one-year service requirement.    The 
market price of the restricted stock on the date of grant was $28.38.    In addition, the Company issued a total of 4,322 shares of common 
stock in-lieu of cash for the annual retainer of three non-employee directors during the year ended December 31, 2016.    The weighted 
average market price of the stock on the date of grant was $29.47.     

The restricted stock awards granted to the directors and the restricted stock units granted to management in 2018, 2017 and 2016 do not 
have rights to dividends or dividend equivalents. 

-(cid:3)111 - 

 
 
 
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(15.) 

SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION (Continued) 

The Company uses the Black-Scholes valuation method to estimate the fair value of its stock option awards. There were no stock options 
awarded  during  2018,  2017  or  2016.  There  was  no  unrecognized  compensation  expense  related  to  unvested  stock  options  as  of 
December 31, 2018. The following is a summary of stock option activity for the year ended December 31, 2018 (dollars in thousands, 
except per share amounts): 

(cid:3)  

  Weighted 
Average 
Exercise 
Price 

Number of   
Options 

      Weighted 
Average 

      Remaining 
      Contractual 

Term 

Aggregate 
Intrinsic 
Value 

Outstanding at beginning of year 

Granted 
Exercised 
Forfeited 
Expired 

Outstanding and exercisable at end of period 

22,199
-
(17,450)
-
(4,749)
-

$

$

18.40     
-     
18.38     
-     
18.50     
-     

0.0 years $

-  

The aggregate intrinsic value (the amount by which the market price of the stock on the date of exercise exceeded the market price of the 
stock  on  the  date  of  grant)  of  option  exercises  for  the  years  ended  December 31,  2018,  2017  and  2016  was  $236 thousand, 
$297 thousand, and $450 thousand, respectively. The total cash received as a result of option exercises under stock compensation plans 
for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 was $320 thousand, $413 thousand, and $964 thousand, respectively. The tax 
benefits realized in connection with these stock option exercises were not significant. 
The following is a summary of restricted stock award and restricted stock units activity for the year ended December 31, 2018: 

(cid:3)  

Outstanding at beginning of year 

Granted 
Vested 
Forfeited 

Outstanding at end of period 

        Weighted 
Average 
Market 
Price at 
Grant Date 

Number(cid:3)of 
Shares 

130,586        $
59,923           
(23,836 )        
(36,102 )        
130,571        $

24.32
28.39
25.74
16.67
28.04  

As of December 31, 2018, there was $1.6 million of unrecognized compensation expense related to unvested restricted stock awards and 
restricted stock units that is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.8 years. 

The Company amortizes the expense related to restricted stock awards and restricted stock units over the vesting period. Share-based 
compensation expense is recorded as a component of salaries and employee benefits in the consolidated statements of income for awards 
granted to management and as a component of other noninterest expense for awards granted to directors. The share-based compensation 
expense for the years ended December 31 was as follows (in thousands): 

Salaries and employee benefits 
Other noninterest expense 
Total share-based compensation expense 

(cid:3)  

2018 

2017 

2016 

$

$

1,045
256
1,301

$ 

$ 

927
247
1,174

$

$

601
244
845  

-(cid:3)112 - 

 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
     
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
   
 
   
 
     
 
 
 
   
   
 
   
   
   
       
 
   
   
   
       
 
   
 
       
 
   
 
       
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

INCOME TAXES 

(16.) 
The income tax expense for the years ended December 31 consisted of the following (in thousands): 

(cid:3)  

2018 

2017 

2016 

Current tax expense (benefit): 

Federal 
State 

Total current tax expense (benefit) 

Deferred tax expense (benefit): 

Federal 
State 

Total deferred tax expense (benefit) 

Total income tax expense 

$

$

19,351
1,135
20,486

(10,303)
(177)
(10,480)
10,006

$ 

$ 

(3,031) $
573
(2,458)

12,297
106
12,403
9,945

$

13,846
82
13,928

(2,175)
457
(1,718)
12,210  

Income tax expense differed from the statutory federal income tax rate for the years ended December 31 as follows: 

(cid:3)  

Statutory federal tax rate 
Increase (decrease) resulting from: 
Tax exempt interest income 
Tax credits and adjustments 
Non-taxable earnings on company owned life insurance
State taxes, net of federal tax benefit 
Nondeductible expenses 
Goodwill and contingent consideration adjustments
Other, net 
Effective tax rate 

2018 

2017 

2016 

21.0%  

35.0 %

(2.6)
(0.3)
(0.8)
1.5
0.2
1.0
0.2

20.2%  

(5.6 )
(6.7 )
(1.4 )
1.1  
0.3  
0.3  
(0.1 )
22.9 %

35.0%

(5.6)
0.3
(2.2)
0.8
0.2
(0.9)
0.1
27.7%

Total income tax expense (benefit) was as follows for the years ended December 31 (in thousands): 

Income tax expense 
Shareholder’s equity 

(cid:3)  

2018 

2017 

2016 

$

10,006
(3,156)

$ 

$

9,945
3,909

12,210
(1,649)

The  Company  recognizes  deferred  income  taxes  for  the  estimated  future  tax  effects  of  differences  between  the  tax  and  financial 
statement bases of assets and liabilities considering enacted tax laws. These differences result in deferred tax assets and liabilities, which 
are included in other assets in the Company’s consolidated statements of financial condition. The Company also assesses the likelihood 
that deferred tax assets will be realizable based on, among other considerations, future taxable income and establishes, if necessary, a 
valuation allowance for those deferred tax assets determined to not likely be realizable. A deferred tax asset valuation allowance is 
recognized if, based on the weight of available evidence (both positive and negative), it is more likely than not that some portion or all of 
the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The future realization of deferred tax benefits depends upon the existence of sufficient taxable 
income within the carry-back and carry-forward periods. Management’s judgment is required in determining the appropriate recognition 
of deferred tax assets and liabilities, including projections of future taxable income. 

-(cid:3)113 - 

 
 
 
 
   
   
   
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
 
   
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(16.) 

INCOME TAXES (Continued) 

The Company’s net deferred tax asset (liability) is included in other assets in the consolidated statements of financial condition. The tax 
effects of temporary differences that give rise to the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities are as follows at December 31 (in 
thousands): 

(cid:3)  

2018 

2017 

Deferred tax assets: 

Allowance for loan losses 
Deferred compensation 
Investment in limited partnerships 
SERP agreements 
Interest on nonaccrual loans 
Share-based compensation 
Net unrealized loss on securities available for sale
Other 

Gross deferred tax assets 

Deferred tax liabilities: 
REIT dividend 
Prepaid expenses 
Prepaid pension costs 
Intangible assets 
Depreciation and amortization 
Loan servicing assets 
Other 

Gross deferred tax liabilities 
Net deferred tax asset (liability) 

$

$

8,550        $
1,771       
660       
417       
106       
541       
2,848       
138       
15,031       

-       
583       
1,415       
2,581       
2,096       
258       
240       
7,173       
7,858        $

8,741
748
599
320
305
464
1,334
66
12,577

9,412
720
3,255
2,594
2,023
250
102
18,356
(5,779)

In March 2014, the New York legislature approved changes in the state tax law that were phased-in over two years, beginning in 2015. 
The primary changes that impacted the Company included the repeal of the Article 32 franchise tax on banking corporations (“Article 
32A”) for 2015, expanded nexus standards for 2015 and a reduction in the corporate tax rate for 2016. The repeal of Article 32A and the 
expanded nexus standards lowered our taxable income apportioned to New York in 2016 and 2015 compared to 2014. In addition, the 
New York state income tax rate was reduced from 7.1% to 6.5% in 2016. 

On December 22, 2017, the TCJ Act was signed into law which, among other items, reduces the federal statutory corporate tax rate from 
35 percent to 21 percent, effective January 1, 2018. The TCJ Act also contains other provisions that may affect the Company currently or 
in future years. Among these are changes to the deductibility of meals and entertainment, the deductibility of executive compensation, 
accelerated expensing of depreciable property for assets placed into service after September 27, 2017 and before 2023, limits on the 
deductibility of net interest expenses, elimination of the corporate alternative minimum tax, limits on net operating loss carrybacks and 
carryforwards to 80% of taxable income and other provisions. 

Results for the fourth quarter and full year of 2017 were positively impacted by a $2.9 million reduction in income tax expense due to the 
TCJ Act, primarily driven by a revaluation adjustment to the net deferred tax liability. 

Based  upon  the  Company’s  historical  and  projected  future  levels  of  pre-tax  and  taxable  income,  the  scheduled  reversals  of  taxable 
temporary differences to offset future deductible amounts, and prudent and feasible tax planning strategies, management believes it is 
more likely than not that the deferred tax assets will be realized. As such, no valuation allowance has been recorded as of December 31, 
2018 or 2017. 

The Company and its subsidiaries are primarily subject to federal and New York income taxes. The federal income tax years currently 
open for audits are 2015 through 2018. The New York income tax years currently open for audits are 2014 through 2018. 
At December 31, 2018, the Company had no federal or New York net operating loss or tax credits carryforwards. 

-(cid:3)114 - 

 
 
 
 
   
      
 
       
       
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(16.) 

INCOME TAXES (Continued) 

The Company’s unrecognized tax benefits and changes in unrecognized tax benefits were not significant as of or for the years ended 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016. There were no material interest or penalties recorded in the income statement in income tax expense 
for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, there were no amounts accrued for interest 
or penalties related to uncertain tax positions. 

(17.) 

EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE 

The following table presents a reconciliation of the earnings and shares used in calculating basic and diluted EPS for each of the years 
ended December 31 (in thousands, except per share amounts). All outstanding unvested share-based payment awards that contain rights 
to non-forfeitable dividends are considered participating securities. 

Net income available to common shareholders 
Weighted average common shares outstanding: 

(cid:3)  

Total shares issued 
Unvested restricted stock awards 
Treasury shares 

Total basic weighted average common shares outstanding

Incremental shares from assumed: 
Exercise of stock options 
Vesting of restricted stock awards 

Total diluted weighted average common shares outstanding

2018 

2017 

2016 

$

38,065

$ 

32,064

$

30,469

16,056
(8)
(138)
15,910

2
44
15,956

15,235
(47)
(144)
15,044

9
32
15,085

14,689
(75)
(178)
14,436

20
35
14,491

2.11
2.10  

Basic earnings per common share 
Diluted earnings per common share 

$
$

2.39
2.39

$ 
$ 

2.13
2.13

$
$

For each of the periods presented, average shares subject to the following instruments were excluded from the computation of diluted 
EPS because the effect would be antidilutive: 

Stock options 
Restricted stock awards 

Total 

-
6
6

-
1
1

-
2
2  

There were no participating securities outstanding for the years ended December 2018, 2017 and 2016; therefore, the two-class method 
of calculating basic and diluted EPS was not applicable for the years presented. 

EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS 

(18.) 
Defined Contribution Plan 

Employees that meet specified eligibility conditions are eligible to participate in the Company sponsored 401(k) plan. Under the plan, 
participants  may  make  contributions,  in  the  form  of  salary  deferrals,  up  to  the  maximum  Internal  Revenue  Code  limit.  Until 
December 31, 2015, the Company matched a participant’s contributions up to 4.5% of compensation, calculated at 100% of the first 3% 
of compensation and 50% of the next 3% of compensation deferred by the participant. The Company is also permitted to make additional 
discretionary  matching  contributions,  although  no  such  additional  discretionary  contributions  were  made  in  2018,  2017  or  2016. 
Effective January 1, 2016, the 401(k) Plan was amended to discontinue the Company’s matching contribution. 

-(cid:3)115 - 

 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
   
   
   
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS (Continued) 

(18.) 
Defined Benefit Pension Plan 

The Company participates in The New York State Bankers Retirement System (the “Plan”), a defined benefit pension plan covering 
substantially  all  employees.  For  employees  hired  prior  to  December 31,  2006,  who  met  participation  requirements  on  or  before 
January 1,  2008  (“Tier  1  Participant”),  the  benefits  are  generally  based  on  years  of  service  and  the  employee’s  highest  average 
compensation during five consecutive years of employment. 

Effective January 1, 2016, the Plan was amended to open the Plan to eligible employees who were hired on and after January 1, 2007 
(“Tier 2 Participant”) and provide these eligible participants with a cash balance benefit formula. 

The following table provides a reconciliation of the Company’s changes in the Plan’s benefit obligations, fair value of assets and a 
statement of the funded status as of and for the year ended December 31 (in thousands): 

Change in projected benefit obligation: 
Projected benefit obligation at beginning of period 

(cid:3)  

Service cost 
Interest cost 
Actuarial (gain) loss 
Benefits paid and plan expenses 

Projected benefit obligation at end of period 

Change in plan assets: 
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period 

Actual return on plan assets 
Employer contributions 
Benefits paid and plan expenses 

Fair value of plan assets at end of period 

Funded status at end of period 

2018 

2017 

$

$

70,436        $
3,346       
2,387       
(3,298 )    
(3,297 )    
69,574       

83,348       
(4,863 )    
-       
(3,297 )    
75,188       
5,614        $

63,002
3,140
2,449
5,016
(3,171)
70,436

75,252
11,267
-
(3,171)
83,348
12,912  

The accumulated benefit obligation was $63.3 million and $65.2 million at December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. 

The Company’s funding policy is to contribute, at a minimum, an actuarially determined amount that will satisfy the minimum funding 
requirements determined under the appropriate sections of Internal Revenue Code. The Company has no minimum required contribution 
for the 2019 fiscal year. 
Estimated benefit payments under the Plan over the next ten years at December 31, 2018 are as follows (in thousands): 

2019 
2020 
2021 
2022 
2023 
2024 - 2028 

    $ 

3,359
3,232
3,391
3,672
3,903
21,596  

-(cid:3)116 - 

 
 
 
 
   
      
 
       
       
 
 
       
       
       
       
       
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS (Continued) 

(18.) 
Net periodic pension cost consists of the following components for the years ended December 31 (in thousands): 

(cid:3)  

2018 

2017 

2016 

Service cost 
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation 
Expected return on plan assets 
Amortization of unrecognized loss 
Amortization of unrecognized prior service (credit) cost
Net periodic pension cost 

$

$

3,346
2,387
(5,284)
725
(5)
1,169

$ 

$ 

3,140
2,449
(4,775)
1,142
17
1,973

$

$

2,885
2,402
(4,600)
938
20
1,645  

The actuarial assumptions used to determine the net periodic pension cost were as follows: 

(cid:3)  

2018 

2017 

2016 

Weighted average discount rate 
Rate of compensation increase 
Expected long-term rate of return 

3.49%  
3.00%  
6.50%  

4.00 %
3.00 %
6.50 %

The actuarial assumptions used to determine the projected benefit obligation were as follows: 

Weighted average discount rate 
Rate of compensation increase 

4.13%  
3.00%  

3.49 %
3.00 %

(cid:3)  

2018 

2017 

2016 

4.21%
3.00%
6.50%

4.00%
3.00%

The weighted average discount rate was based upon the projected benefit cash flows and the market yields of high grade corporate bonds 
that are available to pay such cash flows. 

The weighted average expected long-term rate of return is estimated based on current trends in the Plan’s assets as well as projected 
future rates of return on those assets and reasonable actuarial assumptions based on the guidance provided by Actuarial Standard of 
Practice No. 27, “Selection of Economic Assumptions for Measuring Pension Obligations” for long term inflation, and the real and 
nominal rate of investment return for a specific mix of asset classes. The following assumptions were used in determining the long-term 
rate of return: 

 Equity securities 

     Dividend discount model, the smoothed earnings yield model and the equity risk premium model 

Fixed income 
securities 

Other financial 
instruments 

    Current yield-to-maturity and forecasts of future yields 

    Comparison of the specific investment’s risk to that of fixed income and equity instruments and using other judgments

The long term rate of return considers historical returns. Adjustments were made to historical returns in order to reflect expectations of 
future returns. These adjustments were due to factor forecasts by economists and long-term U.S. Treasury yields to forecast long-term 
inflation. In addition, forecasts by economists and others for long-term GDP growth were factored into the development of assumptions 
for earnings growth and per capita income. 

The  Plan’s  overall  investment  strategy  is  to  achieve  a  mix  of  approximately  97%  of  investments  for  long-term  growth  and  3%  for 
near-term benefit payments with a wide diversification of asset types, fund strategies, and fund managers. The target allocations for Plan 
assets are shown in the table below. Cash equivalents consist primarily of government issues (maturing in less than three months) and 
short term investment funds. Equity securities primarily include investments in common stock, depository receipts, preferred stock, 
commingled pension trust funds, exchange traded funds and real estate investment trusts. Fixed income securities include corporate 
bonds, government issues, credit card receivables, mortgage backed securities, municipals, commingled pension trust funds and other 
asset backed securities. Other investments are real estate interests and related investments held within a commingled pension trust fund. 

-(cid:3)117 - 

 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
   
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(18.) 

EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS (Continued) 

The  Plan  currently  prohibits  its  investment  managers  from  purchasing  any  security  greater  than  5%  of  the  portfolio  at  the  time  of 
purchase or greater than 8% at market value in any one issuer. Effective June 2013, the issuer of any security purchased must be located 
in a country in the Morgan Stanley Capital International World Index. In addition, the following are prohibited: 

Equity securities 

Fixed income securities 

Short sales 
Unregistered stocks 
Margin purchases 

Mortgage backed derivatives that have an inverse floating rate coupon or that are interest only 
securities 
Any ABS that is not issued by the U.S. Government or its agencies or its instrumentalities 
Generally, securities of less than Baa2/BBB quality may not be purchased 

Securities of less than A-quality may not in the aggregate exceed 13% of the investment manager’s 
portfolio. 

An investment manager’s portfolio of commercial MBS and ABS shall not exceed 10% of the 
portfolio at the time of purchase. 

Other financial instruments 

Unhedged currency exposure in countries not defined as “high income economies” by the World 
Bank 

All other investments not prohibited by the Plan are permitted. At December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Plan held certain investments which 
are no longer deemed acceptable to acquire. The Plan continues to allow managers to maintain currently prohibited positions which were 
not prohibited at the time of purchase. These positions will be liquidated when the investment managers deem that such liquidation is in 
the best interest of the Plan. 

The target allocation range below is both historic and prospective in that it has not changed since prior to 2013. It is the asset allocation 
range that the investment managers have been advised to adhere to and within which they may make tactical asset allocation decisions. 

(cid:3)  

Asset category: 

Cash equivalents 
Equity securities 
Fixed income securities 
Other financial instruments 

2018 
Target

Percentage of Plan Assets 
at December 31,(cid:3)

  Allocation 

2018 

2017 

Weighted 
Average(cid:3)
Expected(cid:3)
Long-term
  Rate of Return

0 – 20%
40 – 60
40 – 60
0 – 5

4.2%       

46.1
45.8
3.9

6.4 % 
50.2    
40.2    
3.2    

0.11%
3.71
2.24
0.30  

Assets  are  segregated by  the  level  of  the  valuation  inputs  within  the fair  value hierarchy  established  by  ASC  Topic  820  utilized to 
measure fair value (see Note 19 - Fair Value Measurements). 

-(cid:3)118 - 

 
 
 
  
 
  
   
  
  
  
 
  
   
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
   
  
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
     
   
   
     
     
     
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(18.) 

EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS (Continued) 

In instances in which the inputs used to measure fair value fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy, the fair value measurement 
has been determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Investments valued 
using the NAV (Net Asset Value) are classified as level 2 if the Plan can redeem its investment with the investee at the NAV at the 
measurement date. If the Plan can never redeem the investment with the investee at the NAV, it is considered a level 3. If the Plan can 
redeem  the  investment  at  the  NAV  at  a  future  date,  the  Plan’s  assessment  of  the  significance  of  a  particular  item  to  the  fair  value 
measurement in its entirety requires judgment, including the consideration of inputs specific to the asset. 

The Plan uses the Thomson Reuters Pricing Service to determine the fair value of equities excluding commingled pension trust funds, 
the pricing service of IDC Corporate USA to determine the fair value of fixed income securities excluding commingled pension trust 
funds and JP Morgan Chase Bank, N.A. (“JPMorgan”) and Northern Trust (“NT”) to determine the fair value of commingled pension 
trust funds. 

The following is a table of the pricing methodology and unobservable inputs used by JPMorgan in pricing commingled pension trust 
funds (“CPTF”): 

CPTF – Other: 
CPTF (Strategic Property) of JPMorgan 

Principal Valuation
Technique(s) Used

Unobservable Inputs

Market, Income Approach, Debt Service 
and Sales Comparison 

Credit Spreads, Discount Rate, Loan to 
Value Ratio, Terminal Capitalization 
Rate and Value per Square Foot

When valuing Commingled Pension Trust Funds (Equity) JPMorgan uses a market methodology and does not rely on unobservable 
inputs  in  those  valuations.  When  valuing  Commingled  Pension  Trust  Funds  (Fixed  Income)  JPMorgan  and  NT  use  a  market 
methodology and do not rely on unobservable inputs in those valuations. 
The following table sets forth a summary of the changes in the Plan’s level 3 assets for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017: 

Level 3 assets, January 1, 2017 
Realized gain 
Purchases 
Sales 
Unrealized gain 
Level 3 assets, December 31, 2017 
Unrealized gain 
Level 3 assets, December 31, 2018 

    $

    $

2,637
43
103
(224)
82
2,641
256
2,897  

-(cid:3)119 - 

 
 
 
  
   
   
 
  
 
  
          
  
  
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(18.) 

EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS (Continued) 

The major categories of Plan assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31 are presented in the following tables 
(in thousands). 

(cid:3)  

Level 1 
Inputs 

Level 2 
Inputs 

       Level 3 
Inputs 

Total 

    Fair Value   

2018 
Cash equivalents: 

Cash (including foreign currencies) 
Short term investment funds 
Total cash equivalents 

Equity securities: 
Common stock 
Depository receipts 
Commingled pension trust funds 
Preferred stock 

Total equity securities 

Fixed income securities: 

Collateralized mortgage obligations 
Commingled pension trust funds 
Corporate bonds 
GNMA 
Government securities 
Mortgage backed securities 

Total fixed income securities 

Other investments: 

Commingled pension trust funds - Realty 

Total Plan investments 

$

$

28
-
28

-       $ 
3,094          
3,094          

11,931
203
-
95
12,229

-
-
-
-
-
-
-

-          
-          
22,468          
-          
22,468          

750          
20,051          
2,928          
144          
10,599          
-          
34,472          

$

-
-
-

-
-
-
-
-

-
-
-
-
-
-
-

28
3,094
3,122

11,931
203
22,468
95
34,697

750
20,051
2,928
144
10,599
-
34,472

-
12,257

$

-          
60,034       $ 

2,897
2,897

$

2,897
75,188  

$

(cid:3)
At December 31, 2018, the portfolio was managed by two investment firms, with control of the portfolio split approximately 62% and 
36% under the control of the investment managers with the remaining 2% under the direct control of the Plan. A portfolio concentration 
in three commingled pension trust funds of 15%, 6% and 6%, respectively, existed at December 31, 2018. 

-(cid:3)120 - 

 
 
 
  
 
   
   
 
   
 
   
      
          
          
          
          
          
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(18.) 

EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS (Continued) 

(cid:3)  

Level 1 
Inputs 

Level 2 
Inputs 

       Level 3 
Inputs 

Total 

    Fair Value   

2017 
Cash equivalents: 

Cash (including foreign currencies) 
Short term investment funds 
Total cash equivalents 

Equity securities: 
Common stock 
Depository receipts 
Commingled pension trust funds 
Preferred stock 

Total equity securities 

Fixed income securities: 

Collateralized mortgage obligations 
Commingled pension trust funds 
Corporate bonds 
FNMA 
Government securities 
Mortgage backed securities 

Total fixed income securities 

Other investments: 

Commingled pension trust funds - Realty 

Total Plan investments 

$

$

726
-
726

-       $ 
4,635          
4,635          

14,523
368
-
320
15,211

-
-
-
-
-
-
-

-          
-          
26,613          
-          
26,613          

585          
19,524          
3,068          
167          
10,117          
61          
33,522          

$

-
-
-

-
-
-
-
-

-
-
-
-
-
-
-

726
4,635
5,361

14,523
368
26,613
320
41,824

585
19,524
3,068
167
10,117
61
33,522

-
15,937

$

-          
64,770       $ 

2,641
2,641

$

2,641
83,348  

$

(cid:3)
At December 31, 2017, the portfolio was managed by two investment firms, with control of the portfolio split approximately 59% and 
37% under the control of the investment managers with the remaining 4% under the direct control of the Plan. A portfolio concentration 
in  two  of  the  commingled  pension  trust  funds  and  a  short  term  investment  fund  of  15%,  6%  and  6%,  respectively,  existed  at 
December 31, 2017. 

Postretirement Benefit Plan 

An entity acquired by the Company provided health and dental care benefits to retired employees who met specified age and service 
requirements through a postretirement health and dental care plan in which both the acquired entity and the retirees shared the cost. The 
plan provided for substantially the same medical insurance coverage as for active employees until their death and was integrated with 
Medicare  for  those  retirees  aged  65  or  older.  In  2001,  the  plan’s  eligibility  requirements  were  amended  to  curtail  eligible  benefit 
payments to only retired employees and active employees who had already met the then-applicable age and service requirements under 
the Plan. In 2003, retirees under age 65 began contributing to health coverage at the same cost-sharing level as that of active employees. 
Retirees ages 65 or older were offered new Medicare supplemental plans as alternatives to the plan historically offered. The cost sharing 
of  medical  coverage  was  standardized  throughout  the  group  of  retirees  aged  65  or  older.  In  addition,  to  be  consistent  with  the 
administration of the Company’s dental plan for active employees, all retirees who continued dental coverage began paying the full 
monthly premium. The accrued liability included in other liabilities in the consolidated statements of financial condition related to this 
plan amounted to $109 thousand and $151 thousand as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. The postretirement expense for 
the plan that was included in salaries and employee benefits in the consolidated statements of income was not significant for the years 
ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016. The plan is not funded. 

-(cid:3)121 - 

 
 
 
  
 
   
   
 
   
 
   
      
          
          
          
          
          
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(18.) 

EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS (Continued) 

The  components  of  accumulated  other  comprehensive  loss  related to  the  defined  benefit  plan  and  postretirement  benefit  plan  as  of 
December 31 are summarized below (in thousands): 

(cid:3)  

2018 

2017 

Defined benefit plan: 
Net actuarial loss 
Prior service credit (cost) 

Postretirement benefit plan: 
Net actuarial loss 
Prior service credit 

Total 
Deferred tax benefit 
Amounts included in accumulated other comprehensive loss

$

$

(20,472 )     $

-       
(20,472 )    

(139 )    
102       
(37 )    
(20,509 )    
7,273       
(13,236 )     $

(14,348)
5
(14,343)

(190)
169
(21)
(14,364)
5,723
(8,641)

Changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive income on a pre-tax basis during the years ended 
December 31 are as follows (in thousands): 

(cid:3)  

2018 

2017 

Defined benefit plan: 
Net actuarial gain (loss) 
Amortization of net loss 
Amortization of prior service (credit) cost 

Postretirement benefit plan: 
Net actuarial gain (loss) 
Amortization of net loss 
Amortization of prior service credit 

Total recognized in other comprehensive income 

$

$

(6,849 )     $
725       
(5 )    
(6,129 )    

26       
25       
(67 )    
(16 )    
(6,145 )     $

1,475
1,142
17
2,634

(15)
24
(68)
(59)
2,575  

For  the  year  ending  December 31,  2019,  the  estimated  net  loss  and  prior  service  credit  for  the  plan  that  will  be  amortized  from 
accumulated other comprehensive income into net periodic benefit cost is $1.5 million and $66 thousand, respectively. 

Supplemental Executive Retirement Agreements 

The Company has non-qualified Supplemental Executive Retirement Agreements (“SERPs”) covering certain former executives. The 
unfunded pension liability related to the SERPs was $1.7 million and $1.9 million at December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. SERP 
expense was $215 thousand, $194 thousand, and $88 thousand for 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively. 

-(cid:3)122 - 

 
 
 
 
 
     
 
       
   
       
   
 
 
 
      
 
       
   
       
   
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS 

(19.) 
Determination of Fair Value – Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis 
Valuation Hierarchy 

The fair value of an asset or liability is the price that would be received to sell that asset or paid to transfer that liability in an orderly 
transaction  occurring  in  the  principal  market  (or  most  advantageous  market  in  the  absence  of  a  principal  market)  for  such  asset  or 
liability. ASC Topic 820, “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures,” establishes a fair value hierarchy for valuation inputs that gives 
the highest priority to quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs. The 
fair value hierarchy is as follows: 

(cid:120)(cid:3) Level 1 - Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the reporting entity has the ability to 

access at the measurement date. 

(cid:120)(cid:3) Level  2 - Inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or 
indirectly. These might include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or 
similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or 
liability (such as interest rates, volatilities, prepayment speeds, credit risks, etc.) or inputs that are derived principally from or 
corroborated by market data by correlation or other means. 

(cid:120)(cid:3) Level 3 - Unobservable inputs for determining the fair values of assets or liabilities that reflect an entity’s own assumptions 

about the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the assets or liabilities. 

In general, fair value is based upon quoted market prices, where available. If such quoted market prices are not available, fair value is 
based upon internally developed models that primarily use, as inputs, observable market-based parameters. Valuation adjustments may 
be made to ensure that financial instruments are recorded at fair value. These adjustments may include amounts to reflect counterparty 
credit  quality  and  the  company’s  creditworthiness,  among  other  things,  as  well  as  unobservable  parameters.  Any  such  valuation 
adjustments are applied consistently over time. The Company’s valuation methodologies may produce a fair value calculation that may 
not  be  indicative  of  net  realizable  value  or  reflective  of  future  fair  values.  While  management  believes  the  Company’s  valuation 
methodologies  are  appropriate  and  consistent  with  other  market  participants,  the  use  of  different  methodologies  or  assumptions  to 
determine  the  fair  value  of  certain  financial  instruments  could  result  in  a  different  estimate  of  fair  value  at  the  reporting  date. 
Furthermore,  the  reported  fair  value  amounts  have  not  been  comprehensively  revalued  since  the  presentation  dates,  and  therefore, 
estimates  of  fair  value  after  the  balance  sheet  date  may  differ  significantly  from  the  amounts  presented  herein.  A  more  detailed 
description of the valuation methodologies used for assets and liabilities measured at fair value, as well as the general classification of 
such instruments pursuant to the valuation hierarchy, is set forth below. 

Securities available for sale: Securities classified as available for sale are reported at fair value utilizing Level 2 inputs. For these 
securities,  the  Company  obtains  fair  value  measurements  from  an  independent  pricing  service.  The  fair  value  measurements 
consider observable data that may include dealer quotes, market spreads, cash flows, the U.S. Treasury yield curve, live trading 
levels, trade execution data, market consensus prepayment speeds, credit information and the bond’s terms and conditions, among 
other things. 

Derivative instruments: The fair value of derivative instruments is determined using quoted secondary market prices for similar 
financial instruments and are classified as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy. 

Loans  held  for  sale:  The  fair  value  of  loans  held  for  sale  is  determined  using  quoted  secondary  market  prices  and  investor 
commitments. Loans held for sale are classified as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy. 

-(cid:3)123 - 

 
 
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(19.) 

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (Continued) 

Collateral dependent impaired loans: Fair value of impaired loans with specific allocations of the allowance for loan losses is 
measured based on the value of the collateral securing these loans and is classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy. Collateral 
may  be  real  estate  and/or  business  assets  including  equipment,  inventory  and/or  accounts  receivable  and  collateral  value  is 
determined based on appraisals performed by qualified licensed appraisers hired by the Company. These appraisals may utilize a 
single valuation approach or a combination of approaches including comparable sales and the income approach. Appraised and 
reported values may be discounted based on management’s historical knowledge, changes in market conditions from the time of 
valuation,  and/or  management’s  expertise  and  knowledge  of  the  client  and  the  client’s  business.  Such  discounts  are  typically 
significant and result in a Level 3 classification of the inputs for determining fair value. Impaired loans are reviewed and evaluated 
on at least a quarterly basis for additional impairment and adjusted accordingly, based on the same factors identified above. 

Loan servicing rights: Loan servicing rights do not trade in an active market with readily observable market data. As a result, the 
Company estimates the fair value of loan servicing rights by using a discounted cash flow model to calculate the present value of 
estimated future net servicing income. The assumptions used in the discounted cash flow model are those that we believe market 
participants would use in estimating future net servicing income, including estimates of loan prepayment rates, servicing costs, 
ancillary  income,  impound  account  balances,  and  discount  rates.  The  significant  unobservable  inputs  used  in  the  fair  value 
measurement  of  the  Company’s  loan  servicing  rights  are  the  constant  prepayment  rates  and  weighted  average  discount  rate. 
Significant  increases  (decreases)  in  any  of  those  inputs  in  isolation  could  result  in  a  significantly  lower  (higher)  fair  value 
measurement. Although the constant prepayment rate and the discount rate are not directly interrelated, they will generally move in 
opposite directions. Loan servicing rights are classified as Level 3 measurements due to the use of significant unobservable inputs, 
as well as significant management judgment and estimation. 

Other real estate owned (foreclosed assets): Nonrecurring adjustments to certain commercial and residential real estate properties 
classified as other real estate owned are measured at the lower of carrying amount or fair value, less costs to sell. Fair values are 
generally based on third party appraisals of the property, resulting in a Level 3 classification. The appraisals are sometimes further 
discounted  based  on  management’s  historical  knowledge,  changes  in  market  conditions  from  the  time  of  valuation,  and/or 
management’s expertise and knowledge of the client and client’s business. Such discounts are typically significant and result in a 
Level 3 classification of the inputs for determining fair value. In cases where the carrying amount exceeds the fair value, less costs 
to sell, an impairment loss is recognized. 

Commitments to extend credit and letters of credit: Commitments to extend credit and fund letters of credit are principally at 
current interest rates, and, therefore, the carrying amount approximates fair value. The fair value of commitments is not material. 

-(cid:3)124 - 

 
 
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (Continued) 

(19.) 
Assets Measured at Fair Value 

The  following  tables  present  for  each  of  the  fair-value  hierarchy  levels  the  Company’s  assets  that  are  measured  at  fair  value  on  a 
recurring and non-recurring basis as of December 31 (in thousands): 

2018 
Measured on a recurring basis: 
Securities available for sale: 

U.S. Government agencies and government sponsored enterprises
Mortgage-backed securities 

Other assets: 

Hedging derivative instruments 

Fair value adjusted through comprehensive income 

Other assets: 

Derivative instruments – interest rate products 
Derivative instruments – mortgage banking 

Other liabilities: 

Derivative instruments – interest rate products 
Derivative instruments – credit contracts 
Derivative instruments – mortgage banking 

Fair value adjusted through net income 

Measured on a nonrecurring basis: 
Loans: 

Loans held for sale 
Collateral dependent impaired loans 

Other assets: 

Loan servicing rights 
Other real estate owned 

Total 

Quoted Prices
in Active 
Markets for 
Identical 
Assets or 
Liabilities 
(Level 1)

Significant 
Other 
Observable 
Inputs 
(Level 2) 

Significant 
Unobservable
Inputs 
(Level 3)

Total 

$

$

$

$

$

$

-
-

-
-

-
-

-
-
-
-

-
-

-
-
-

$

$

$

$

$

$

152,028        $ 
293,649           

631           
446,308        $ 

3,113        $ 
83           

(2,006 )        
(24 )        
(27 )        
1,139        $ 

-
-

-
-

-
-

-
-
-
-

2,868        $ 
-           

-           
-           
2,868        $ 

-
2,872

1,022
230
4,124

$

$

$

$

$

$

152,028
293,649

631
446,308

3,113
83

(2,006)
(24)
(27)
1,139

2,868
2,872

1,022
230
6,992  

There were no transfers between Levels 1 and 2 during the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017. There were no liabilities measured 
at fair value on a nonrecurring basis during the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017. 

-(cid:3)125 - 

 
 
 
 
   
 
   
      
   
 
 
 
   
   
 
   
          
   
   
 
   
 
           
           
           
           
           
   
           
           
           
           
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(19.) 

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (Continued) 

2017 
Measured on a recurring basis: 
Securities available for sale: 

U.S. Government agencies and government sponsored enterprises
Mortgage-backed securities 

Other assets: 

Hedging derivative instruments 

Fair value adjusted through comprehensive income 

Other assets: 

Derivative instruments – interest rate products 
Derivative instruments – mortgage banking 

Other liabilities: 

Derivative instruments – interest rate products 
Derivative instruments – credit contracts 
Derivative instruments – mortgage banking 

Fair value adjusted through net income 

Measured on a nonrecurring basis: 
Loans: 

Loans held for sale 
Collateral dependent impaired loans 

Other assets: 

Loan servicing rights 
Other real estate owned 

Quoted Prices
in Active 
Markets for 
Identical 
Assets or 
Liabilities 
(Level 1)

Significant 
Other 
Observable 
Inputs 
(Level 2) 

Significant 
Unobservable
Inputs 
(Level 3)

$

$

$

$

$

$

-
-

-
-

-
-

-
-
-
-

-
-

-
-
-

$

$

$

$

$

$

161,889        $ 
363,084           

-           
524,973        $ 

-        $ 
30           

-           
(4 )        
(3 )        
23        $ 

-
-

-
-

-
-

-
-
-
-

2,718        $ 
-           

-           
-           
2,718        $ 

-
3,847

990
148
4,985

Total 

161,889
363,084

-
524,973

-
30

-
(4)
(3)
23

2,718
3,847

990
148
7,703  

$

$

$

$

$

$

There were no transfers between Levels 1 and 2 during the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016. There were no liabilities measured 
at fair value on a nonrecurring basis during the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016. 

-(cid:3)126 - 

 
 
 
 
   
 
   
      
   
 
           
           
           
           
           
           
   
           
           
           
           
   
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(19.) 

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (Continued) 

The following table presents additional quantitative information about assets measured at fair value on a recurring and nonrecurring 
basis for which the Company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value (dollars in thousands). 

Asset 

Collateral dependent impaired loans 
Loan servicing rights 

Other real estate owned 

Fair 
Value 

Valuation Technique 

2,872 Appraisal of collateral (1)
1,022 Discounted cash flow

230 Appraisal of collateral (1)

   $ 
   $ 

   $ 

Unobservable Input 
Appraisal adjustments (2) 
Discount rate
Constant prepayment rate 
Appraisal adjustments (2) 

Unobservable Input 
Value or Range

    10% - 46% discount

10.3% (3)
12.7% (3)
6% - 49% discount

(1)  Fair value is generally determined through independent appraisals of the underlying collateral, which generally include various 

Level 3 inputs which are not identifiable. 

(2)  Appraisals may be adjusted by management for qualitative factors such as economic conditions and estimated liquidation expenses. 
(3)  Weighted averages. 

Changes in Level 3 Fair Value Measurements 

There were no assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) as of or during the years 
ended December 31, 2018 and 2017. 

Disclosures about Fair Value of Financial Instruments 

The  assumptions  used  below  are  expected  to  approximate  those  that  market  participants  would  use  in  valuing  these  financial 
instruments. 

Fair  value  estimates  are  made  at  a  specific point  in  time,  based  on  available  market  information  and judgments  about  the financial 
instrument, including estimates of timing, amount of expected future cash flows and the credit standing of the issuer. Such estimates do 
not consider the tax impact of the realization of unrealized gains or losses. In some cases, the fair value estimates cannot be substantiated 
by comparison to independent markets. In addition, the disclosed fair value may not be realized in the immediate  settlement of the 
financial instrument. Care should be exercised in deriving conclusions about our business, its value or financial position based on the fair 
value information of financial instruments presented below. 

The estimated fair value approximates carrying value for cash and cash equivalents, FHLB and FRB stock, accrued interest receivable, 
non-maturity  deposits,  short-term  borrowings  and  accrued  interest  payable.  Fair  value  estimates  for  other  financial  instruments  not 
included elsewhere in this disclosure are discussed below. 

Securities held to maturity: The fair value of the Company’s investment securities held to maturity is primarily measured using 
information  from  a  third-party  pricing  service.  The  fair  value  measurements  consider  observable  data  that  may  include  dealer 
quotes,  market  spreads,  cash  flows,  the  U.S.  Treasury  yield  curve,  live  trading  levels,  trade  execution  data,  market  consensus 
prepayment speeds, credit information and the bond’s terms and conditions, among other things. 

Loans:  The  fair  value  of  the  Company’s  loans  was  estimated  by  discounting  the  expected  future  cash  flows  using  the  current 
interest rates at which similar loans would be made for the same remaining maturities. Loans were first segregated by type such as 
commercial, residential mortgage, and consumer, and were then further segmented into fixed and variable rate and loan quality 
categories. Expected future cash flows were projected based on contractual cash flows, adjusted for estimated prepayments. 

Time deposits: The fair value of time deposits was estimated using a discounted cash flow approach that applies prevailing market 
interest  rates  for  similar  maturity  instruments.  The  fair  values  of  the  Company’s  time  deposit  liabilities  do  not  take  into 
consideration the value of the Company’s long-term relationships with depositors, which may have significant value. 

Long-term borrowings: Long-term borrowings consist of $40 million of subordinated notes. The subordinated notes are publicly 
traded and are valued based on market prices, which are characterized as Level 2 liabilities in the fair value hierarchy. 

-(cid:3)127 - 

 
 
 
 
   
   
 
   
   
   
      
   
   
 
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(19.) 

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (Continued) 

The  following  presents  the  carrying  amount,  estimated  fair  value,  and  placement  in  the  fair  value  measurement  hierarchy  of  the 
Company’s financial instruments as of December 31(in thousands): 

Level in 
Fair Value 

Measurement Carrying  
Amount   

Hierarchy 

2018 

2017 

  Estimated        
Fair 
Value 

     Carrying  
     Amount   

  Estimated  
Fair 
Value 

Financial assets: 

Cash and cash equivalents 
Securities available for sale 
Securities held to maturity 
Loans held for sale 
Loans 
Loans (1) 
Accrued interest receivable 
FHLB and FRB stock 
Derivative instruments – cash flow hedge 
Derivative instruments – interest rate products 
Derivative instruments – mortgage banking 

Financial liabilities: 

Non-maturity deposits 
Time deposits 
Short-term borrowings 
Long-term borrowings 
Accrued interest payable 
Derivative instruments – interest rate products 
Derivative instruments – credit contracts 
Derivative instruments – mortgage banking 

Level 1
Level 2
Level 2
Level 2
Level 2
Level 3
Level 1
Level 2
Level 2
Level 2
Level 2

Level 1
Level 2
Level 1
Level 2
Level 1
Level 2
Level 2
Level 2

$

$ 102,755
445,677
446,581
2,868
3,049,812
2,872
11,990
26,375
631
3,113
83

2,346,839
1,020,068
469,500
39,202
9,280
2,006
24
27

2,868          

99,195
102,755       $ 
445,677           524,973
439,581           516,466
2,718
3,006,161          2,696,498
3,847
10,776
27,730
-
-
30

2,872          
11,990          
26,375          
631          
3,113          
83          

2,346,839          2,358,018
1,014,532           852,156
469,500           446,200
39,131
8,038
-
4
3

38,415          
9,280          
2,006          
24          
27          

$

99,195
524,973
512,983
2,718
2,660,936
3,847
10,776
27,730
-
-
30

2,358,018
848,055
446,200
41,485
8,038
-
4
3  

(1)  Comprised of collateral dependent impaired loans. 

PARENT COMPANY FINANCIAL INFORMATION 

(20.) 
Condensed financial statements pertaining only to the Parent are presented below (in thousands). 

Condensed Statements of Financial Condition 

Assets: 

Cash and due from subsidiary 
Investment in and receivables due from subsidiary
Other assets 

Total assets 

Liabilities and shareholders’ equity: 

Long-term borrowings, net of issuance costs of $869 and $939, respectively
Other liabilities 
Shareholders’ equity 

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity 

December 31, 

2018 

2017 

$

$

$

$

7,377        $

429,202       
6,199       
442,778        $

39,202        $
7,283       
396,293       
442,778        $

10,687
409,127
5,901
425,715

39,131
5,407
381,177
425,715  

-(cid:3)128 - 

 
 
 
 
   
    
 
   
 
   
   
   
 
   
 
          
          
 
 
 
 
   
 
     
 
       
       
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(20.) 

PARENT COMPANY FINANCIAL INFORMATION (Continued) 

Condensed Statements of Income 

Dividends from subsidiary and associated companies
Management and service fees from subsidiaries 
Other income 

Total income 
Interest expense 
Operating expenses 
Total expense 
Income before income tax benefit and equity in undistributed earnings of 
subsidiary 
Income tax benefit 

Income before equity in undistributed earnings of subsidiary

Equity in undistributed earnings of subsidiary 

Net income 

Condensed Statements of Cash Flows 

Cash flows from operating activities:

Net income 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating 
activities: 

Equity in undistributed earnings of subsidiary
Depreciation and amortization 
Share-based compensation 
(Increase) decrease in other assets 
Increase (Decrease) in other liabilities 

Net cash provided by operating activities 

Cash flows from investing activities: 
Capital investment in subsidiaries 
Purchase of premises and equipment 
Net cash paid for acquisition 

Net cash used in investing activities 

Cash flows from financing activities:

Proceeds from issuance of common shares 
Purchase of preferred and common shares 
Proceeds from stock options exercised 
Dividends paid 
Other 

Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents as of beginning of year
Cash and cash equivalents as of end of the year 

Years ended December 31, 
2017 

2018 

2016 

20,000
137
137
20,274
2,471
4,156
6,627

13,647
1,745
15,392
24,134
39,526

$ 

$ 

12,000
1,185
1,298
14,483
2,471
4,249
6,720

7,763
1,817
9,580
23,946
33,526

$

$

16,000
855
1,296
18,151
2,471
5,950
8,421

9,730
2,783
12,513
19,418
31,931  

Years ended December 31, 
2017 

2018 

2016 

39,526

$ 

33,526

$

31,931

(24,134)
152
1,301
(175)
1,548
18,218

(803)
(19)
(4,503)
(5,325)

-
(114)
320
(16,409)
-
(16,203)
(3,310)
10,687
7,377

$ 

(23,946)
149
1,174
(1,673)
(1,211)
8,019

(38,405)
(44)
-
(38,449)

38,303
(157)
413
(13,958)
-
24,601
(5,829)
16,516
10,687

$

(19,418)
148
845
1,772
(389)
14,889

-
(1,290)
(918)
(2,208)

-
-
964
(12,946)
30
(11,952)
729
15,787
16,516  

$

$

$

$

-(cid:3)129 - 

 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
   
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
 
   
 
   
   
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

(21.) 

SEGMENT REPORTING 

The Company has two reportable segments: Banking and Non-Banking. These reportable segments have been identified and organized 
based on the nature of the underlying products and services applicable to each segment, the type of customers to whom those products 
and services are offered and the distribution channel through which those products and services are made available. 

The Banking segment includes all of the Company’s retail and commercial banking operations. The Non-Banking segment includes the 
activities of SDN, a full service insurance agency that provides a broad range of insurance services to both personal and business clients, 
and Courier Capital and HNP Capital, our investment advisor and wealth management firms that provide customized investment advice, 
wealth  management,  investment  consulting  and  retirement  plan  services  to  individuals,  businesses,  institutions,  foundations  and 
retirement plans. Holding company amounts are the primary differences between segment amounts and consolidated totals, and are 
reflected  in  the  Holding  Company  and  Other  column  below,  along  with  amounts  to  eliminate  balances  and  transactions  between 
segments. 
The following table presents information regarding the Company’s business segments as of the dates indicated (in thousands). 

(cid:3)  
December(cid:3)31, 2018 
Goodwill 
Other intangible assets, net 
Total assets 

December(cid:3)31, 2017 
Goodwill 
Other intangible assets, net 
Total assets 
(cid:3)

Banking 

  Non-Banking     

Holding 
Company(cid:3)
and Other  

Consolidated
Totals

$

$

$

$

48,536
213
4,272,439

48,536
373
4,069,086

17,526       $ 
9,898          
35,975          

17,304       $ 
8,490          
31,466          

-
-
3,284

-
-
4,658

$

$

66,062
10,111
4,311,698

65,840
8,863
4,105,210  

-(cid:3)130 - 

 
 
 
 
 
            
   
          
          
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

SEGMENT REPORTING (Continued) 

(21.) 
The following table presents information regarding the Company’s business segments for the periods indicated (in thousands). 

(cid:3)  
Year ended December(cid:3)31, 2018 
Net interest income (expense) 
Provision for loan losses 
Noninterest income 
Noninterest expense (2) 
Income (loss) before income taxes 
Income tax (expense) benefit 
Net income (loss) 

Year ended December(cid:3)31, 2017 
Net interest income (expense) 
Provision for loan losses 
Noninterest income 
Noninterest expense (2) 
Income (loss) before income taxes 
Income tax (expense) benefit 
Net income (loss) 

Year ended December(cid:3)31, 2016 
Net interest income (expense) 
Provision for loan losses 
Noninterest income 
Noninterest expense 
Income (loss) before income taxes 
Income tax (expense) benefit 
Net income (loss) 

  Banking 

Banking (1)(cid:3)       

Non- 

Holding 
Company(cid:3)
and Other    

Consolidated
Totals

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

125,334
(8,934)
26,295
(84,927)
57,768
(11,622)
46,146

115,086
(13,361)
24,921
(78,845)
47,801
(12,253)
35,548

105,161
(9,638)
26,457
(73,056)
48,924
(14,409)

-       $ 
-          
10,780          
(12,663 )       
(1,883 )       
(129 )       
(2,012 )    $ 

-       $ 
-          
9,172          
(9,264 )       
(92 )       
491          
399       $ 

-       $ 
-          
8,567          
(7,080 )       
1,487          
(584 )       

(2,470) $
-
(597)
(3,286)
(6,353)
1,745
(4,608) $

(2,471) $
-
637
(2,404)
(4,238)
1,817
(2,421) $

(2,471) $
-
736
(4,535)
(6,270)
2,783

122,864
(8,934)
36,478
(100,876)
49,532
(10,006)
39,526

112,615
(13,361)
34,730
(90,513)
43,471
(9,945)
33,526

102,690
(9,638)
35,760
(84,671)
44,141
(12,210)

$

34,515

$

903       $ 

(3,487) $

31,931  

(1)(cid:3) Reflects  activity  from  Courier  Capital  since  January  5,  2016  (the  date  of  acquisition),  from  the  acquisition  of  the  assets  of 
Robshaw &  Julian  since  August 31,  2017  (the  date  of  acquisition)  and  from  HNP  Capital  since  June  1,  2018  (the  date  of 
acquisition). 

(2)(cid:3) Non-Banking  segment  includes  SDN  reporting  unit  goodwill  impairment  of  $2.4  million  and  $1.6 million  for  years  ended     

December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. 

-(cid:3)131 - 

 
 
 
 
   
 
 
          
   
          
 
          
   
          
 
          
 
 
 
 
 
ITEM 9.    CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL 
DISCLOSURE 

None. 

ITEM 9A.    CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES 

Effectiveness of Controls and Procedures 

As  of  the  end  of  the  period  covered  by  this  report,  the  Company  carried  out  an  evaluation,  under  the  supervision  and  with  the 
participation of the Company’s management, including the Company’s Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) and Chief 
Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer), of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and 
procedures pursuant to Rule 13a-15(b), as adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) under the Securities Exchange 
Act of 1934 (“Exchange Act”). Based upon that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the 
Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end of the period covered by this Annual Report on Form 10-K. 

Disclosure controls and procedures are the controls and other procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be 
disclosed in the reports that the Company files or submits under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported 
within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls 
and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports that the Company files or submits under the 
Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as 
appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. 

Management Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting and Attestation Report of Independent Registered Public 
Accounting Firm 

Management  of  the  Company  is  responsible  for  establishing  and  maintaining  adequate  internal  control  over  financial  reporting. 
Management  assessed  the  Company’s  internal  control  over  financial  reporting  based  on  criteria  established  in  the  Internal 
Control—Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). 
Based on this assessment, management has concluded that, as of December 31, 2018, the Company maintained effective internal control 
over  financial  reporting.  Management’s  Report  on  Internal  Control  over  Financial  Reporting  is  included  under  Item  8  “Financial 
Statements and Supplementary Data” in Part II of this Form 10-K. 

RSM US LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, has audited the consolidated financial statements as of and for the year 
ended December 31, 2018 which are included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, and has issued a report on the effectiveness of the 
Company’s  internal  control  over  financial  reporting  as  of  December  31,  2018.  The  Report  of  the  Independent  Registered  Public 
Accounting Firm that attests the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting is included under Item 8 “Financial Statements 
and Supplementary Data” in Part II of this Form 10-K. 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting 

There were no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended December 31, 
2018 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. 

ITEM 9B.    OTHER INFORMATION 

Not applicable. 

-(cid:3)132 - 

 
 
 
 
 
 
PART III 

ITEM 10.    DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE 

In response to this Item, the information set forth in the Company’s Proxy Statement for its 2019 Annual Meeting of Shareholders (the 
“2019 Proxy Statement”) to be filed within 120 days following the end of the Company’s fiscal year, under the headings “Proposal 1 - 
Election of Directors,” “Business Experience and Qualification of Directors,” “Our Executive Officers,” and “Section 16(a) Beneficial 
Ownership Reporting Compliance” is incorporated herein by reference. 

Information  concerning  the  Company’s Audit  Committee  and  the Audit Committee’s  financial  expert is  set  forth  under  the  caption 
“Board Meetings and Committees” in the 2019 Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by reference. 

Information concerning the Company’s Code of Business Conduct and Ethics is set forth under the caption “Code of Ethics” in the 2019 
Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by reference. 

ITEM 11.    EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION 

In  response  to  this  Item,  the  information  set  forth  in  the  2019  Proxy  Statement  under  the  headings  “Compensation  Discussion  and 
Analysis,”  “Executive  Compensation  Tables,”  “Management  Development  and  Compensation  Committee  Interlocks  and  Insider 
Participation,” “Director Compensation,” and “Management Development and Compensation Committee Report” is incorporated herein 
by reference. 

ITEM 12.    SECURITY  OWNERSHIP  OF  CERTAIN  BENEFICIAL  OWNERS  AND  MANAGEMENT  AND  RELATED 
STOCKHOLDER MATTERS 

In  response  to  this  Item,  the  information  set  forth  in  the  2019  Proxy  Statement  under  the  heading  “Security  Ownership  of  Certain 
Beneficial Owners and Management” is incorporated herein by reference. 

Equity Compensation Plan Information 

The following table sets forth, as of December 31, 2018, information about our equity compensation plans that have been approved by 
our shareholders, including the number of shares of our common stock exercisable under all outstanding options, warrants and rights, the 
weighted average exercise price of all outstanding options, warrants and rights and the number of shares available for future issuance 
under our equity compensation plans. We have no equity compensation plans that have not been approved by our shareholders. 

(cid:3)  

Number(cid:3)of(cid:3)securities(cid:3)to
be(cid:3)issued(cid:3)upon(cid:3)exercise
of outstanding options,
  warrants and rights 

Plan Category 
Equity compensation plans approved by shareholders
Equity compensation plans not approved by shareholders

(a) 
126,891 (1)
-

    Weighted average 

exercise price 
of outstanding 
options, warrants 
and rights 
(b) (1) 
- 
- 

$
$

     Number(cid:3)of(cid:3)securities 
     remaining(cid:3)for(cid:3)future   
     issuance(cid:3)under(cid:3)equity
     compensation plans
(excluding securities
    reflected(cid:3)in(cid:3)column(cid:3)(a)) 
(c) 
277,596
-

(1)(cid:3) Comprised of restricted stock units granted under our 2015 Plan. See Note 15, Share-Based Compensation, to the Consolidated 
Financial  Statements  included  in  Item  8  of  this  Annual  Report  on  Form  10-K  for  further  details.  All  restricted  stock  units  are 
excluded from the weighted average exercise price column. 

ITEM 13.    CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE 

In response to this Item, the information set forth in the 2019 Proxy Statement under the headings “Certain Relationships and Related 
Transactions” and “Board Independence” is incorporated herein by reference. 

ITEM 14.    PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES 

In  response  to  this  Item,  the  information  set  forth  in  the  2019  Proxy  Statement  under  the  heading  “Independent  Registered  Public 
Accounting Firm” is incorporated herein by reference. 

-(cid:3)133 - 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
    
   
   
 
   
    
 
        
        
 
 
 
 
 
 
ITEM 15.      EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES 

(a)  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

PART IV 

Reference is made to the Index to Consolidated Financial Statements of Financial Institutions, Inc. and subsidiaries under Item 
8 “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” in Part II of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. 

(b)  EXHIBITS 

The following is a list of all exhibits filed or incorporated by reference as part of this Report. 

Exhibit 
Number 
  3.1 

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Company Incorporated by reference to Exhibits 3.1, 3.2 and 3.3 

Description 

Location 

  3.2 

  4.1 

  4.2 

  4.3 

10.1 

10.2 

10.3  

10.4  

10.5  

10.6  

10.7  

10.8  

10.9  

(cid:3)

Amended and Restated Bylaws of the Company

Subordinated Indenture, dated as of April 15, 2015, between 
Financial Institutions, Inc. and Wilmington Trust, National 
Association, as Trustee 

First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of April 15, 2015, between 
Financial Institutions, Inc. and Wilmington Trust, National 
Association, as Trustee 

of the Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 
2008, dated March 12, 2009 

Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of the Form 
8-K, dated December 30, 2016 

Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 of the Form 
8-K, dated April 15, 2015 

Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 of the Form 
8-K, dated April 15, 2015 

Form of Global Note to represent the 6.00% Fixed-to-Floating Rate 
Subordinated Notes due April 15, 2030 

Incorporated by reference to Exhibit A of Exhibit 4.2 
of the Form 8-K, dated April 15, 2015 

Voluntary Retirement Agreement with Ronald A. Miller
 (cid:3)

Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the Form 
8-K, dated September 26, 2008 

Amendment to Voluntary Retirement Agreement with Ronald A. 
Miller 
 (cid:3)
Supplemental Executive Retirement Agreement between Financial 
Institutions, Inc. and Peter G. Humphrey 
 (cid:3)

Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Form 
8-K, dated March 3, 2010 
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 of the Form 
10-Q for the quarterly period ended September 30, 
2012, dated November 6, 2012 

Supplemental Executive Retirement Agreement between Financial 
Institutions, Inc. and Richard J. Harrison 
 (cid:3)

Financial Institutions, Inc. 2015 Long-Term Incentive Plan
 (cid:3)

Form of Director Annual Restricted Stock Award Agreement 
Pursuant to the Financial Institutions, Inc. 2015 Long-Term 
Incentive Plan 
 (cid:3)
Form of Director “In Lieu of Cash Fees” Stock Award Agreement 
Pursuant to the Financial Institutions, Inc. 2015 Long-Term 
Incentive Plan 
 (cid:3)
Form of Restricted Stock Award Agreement Pursuant to the 
Financial Institutions, Inc. 2015 Long-Term Incentive Plan 
 (cid:3)

Form of Performance Stock Award Agreement Pursuant to the 
Financial Institutions, Inc. 2015 Long-Term Incentive Plan 
 (cid:3)

Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Form 
10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2014, 
dated August 5, 2014 
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Form 
10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2015, 
dated August 5, 2015 

Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the Form 
10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2015, 
dated August 5, 2015 
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 of the Form 
10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2015, 
dated August 5, 2015 

Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 of the Form 
10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2015, 
dated August 5, 2015 
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 of the Form 
10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2015, 
dated August 5, 2015 

(cid:3)

-(cid:3)134 - 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 of the Form 
10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2015, 
dated August 5, 2015 
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7 of the Form 
10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2015, 
dated August 5, 2015 

Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Form 
8-K, dated December 30, 2016 
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Form 
8-K, dated May 4, 2017 

Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the Form 
8-K, dated May 4, 2017 
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 of the Form 
8-K, dated May 4, 2017 

Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 of the Form 
8-K, dated May 4, 2017 
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 of the Form 
8-K, dated May 4, 2017 

Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Form 
8-K, dated May 30, 2017 
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Form 
10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2018, 
dated August 8, 2018 
Filed Herewith

Filed Herewith

Filed Herewith

Filed Herewith

Filed Herewith

Filed Herewith 

Filed Herewith

10.10  

10.11  

Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement Pursuant to the 
Financial Institutions, Inc. 2015 Long-Term Incentive Plan 
 (cid:3)

Form of Performance Stock Unit Award Agreement Pursuant to the 
Financial Institutions, Inc. 2015 Long-Term Incentive Plan 
 (cid:3)

10.12  

Form of Indemnification Agreement (cid:3)

10.13  

10.14  

10.15  

10.16  

10.17  

10.18  

10.19 

10.20 

21  

23.1  

23.2  

31.1  

31.2  

32  

101.INS  

101.SCH  

101.CAL  

101.LAB  

Amended and Restated Executive Agreement, dated May 3, 2017, by 
and between Financial Institutions, Inc. and Martin K. Birmingham (cid:3)

Amended and Restated Executive Agreement, dated May 3, 2017, 
by and between Financial Institutions, Inc. and Kevin B. Klotzbach
 (cid:3)
Executive Agreement, dated May 3, 2017, by and between 
Financial Institutions, Inc. and Michael D. Burneal 
 (cid:3)
Executive Agreement, dated May 3, 2017, by and between 
Financial Institutions, Inc. and Jeffrey P. Kenefick 
 (cid:3)
Executive Agreement, dated May 3, 2017, by and between 
Financial Institutions, Inc. and William L. Kreienberg 
 (cid:3)
Sales Agency Agreement, dated May 30, 2017, by and between 
Financial Institutions, Inc. and Sandler O’Neill + Partners, L.P. 
 (cid:3)
Supplemental Executive Retirement Agreement between Financial 
Institutions, Inc. and Kevin B. Klotzbach dated June 26, 2018(cid:3)

Severance and Settlement Agreement and Release with Michael D. 
Burneal   

Subsidiaries of Financial Institutions, Inc.
 (cid:3)
Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm, RSM 
US LLP 
(cid:3)
Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm, 
KPMG LLP 
(cid:3)
Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 
2002 - Principal Executive Officer 
 (cid:3)
Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 
2002 - Principal Financial Officer (cid:3)

Certification pursuant to18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted 
pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 
 (cid:3)
XBRL Instance Document 
 (cid:3)
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
 (cid:3)
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
 (cid:3)
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document

101.PRE  

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document

101.DEF  

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document

All material agreements consist of management contracts, compensatory plans or arrangements. 

ITEM 16.    FORM 10-K SUMMARY 

None. 

-(cid:3)135 - 

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

SIGNATURES 

March 8, 2019 

FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. 

By:

/s/ Martin K. Birmingham 
Martin K. Birmingham
President and Chief Executive Officer 

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

Signatures 

/s/ Martin K. Birmingham 
Martin K. Birmingham 

/s/ Kevin B. Klotzbach 
Kevin B. Klotzbach 

/s/ Michael D. Grover 
Michael D. Grover 

/s/ Karl V. Anderson, Jr. 
Karl V. Anderson, Jr. 

/s/ Donald K. Boswell 
Donald K. Boswell 

/s/ Dawn H. Burlew 
Dawn H. Burlew 

/s/ Andrew W. Dorn, Jr. 
Andrew W. Dorn, Jr. 

/s/ Robert M. Glaser 
Robert M. Glaser 

/s/ Samuel M. Gullo 
Samuel M. Gullo 

/s/ Susan R. Holliday 
Susan R. Holliday 

/s/ Robert N. Latella 
Robert N. Latella 

/s/ Kim E. VanGelder 
Kim E. VanGelder 

/s/ James H. Wyckoff 
James H. Wyckoff 

Date

  March 8, 2019

  March 8, 2019

  March 8, 2019

  March 8, 2019

  March 8, 2019

  March 8, 2019

  March 8, 2019

  March 8, 2019

  March 8, 2019

  March 8, 2019

  March 8, 2019

  March 8, 2019

  March 8, 2019

Title

  Director, President and Chief Executive Officer
  (Principal Executive Officer)

  Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer 
  (Principal Financial Officer)

  Senior Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer 
  (Principal Accounting Officer)

  Director

  Director

  Director

  Director

  Director

  Director

  Director

  Director, Chairman

  Director

  Director

-(cid:3)136 - 

 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
Investor Information

Corporate Headquarters
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Executive Management Committee 
Seated (from the left): William L. Kreienberg, Martin K. Birmingham and Kevin B. Klotzbach
Standing (from the left): Sean M. Willett, Joseph L. Dugan, Valerie C. Benjamin and 
Justin K. Bigham

Investor Relations Contact
Shelly J. Doran - Director of Investor and External Relations 
SJDoran@five-starbank.com

Legal Counsel 
Harter Secrest & Emery LLP

Independent Auditors
RSM US LLP
Chicago, IL

Affiliates 
Five Star Bank
SDN Insurance Agency, LLC
Courier Capital, LLC
HNP Capital, LLC

Five Star Bank Regional Administrative Center
Five Star Bank Plaza
100 Chestnut Street
Rochester, NY 14604

SDN Insurance Agency, LLC
300 Spindrift Drive
Amherst, NY 14221

Courier Capital, LLC 
1114 Delaware Avenue
Buffalo, NY 14209

HNP Capital, LLC
Five Star Bank Plaza
100 Chestnut Street
Rochester, NY 14604

®

  
®

220 Liberty Street, Warsaw, NY 14569 
585.786.1100  | www.fiiwarsaw.com