Quarterlytics / Financial Services / Banks - Regional / Peoples Bancorp Inc. / FY2014 Annual Report

Peoples Bancorp Inc.
Annual Report 2014

PEBO · NASDAQ Financial Services
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Ticker PEBO
Exchange NASDAQ
Sector Financial Services
Industry Banks - Regional
Employees 1460
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FY2014 Annual Report · Peoples Bancorp Inc.
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Growing Our Services, 
Building Communities 
and Making an Impact 

Peoples Bank is committed to Building Something Different.  To achieve a 

high level of excellence and provide value to our shareholders and service to 

our customers, we focus on these core strategies to guide our daily efforts:

  •  Responsible Risk Management

  •  Extraordinary Client Experience

  •  Profitable Revenue Growth

  •  Superior Workforce

These pillars are the principles that guide us toward our goal of building 

the Best Community Bank in America.  As we build a business supported 

by these pillars, we come closer every day to meeting that goal.  

Growth is a natural outcome of our commitment to being the Best 

Community Bank in America.  A dedicated focus on three business drivers 

is at the heart of this endeavor. 

  •  Services: should be of the highest quality, using leading technology, 

and personalized to meet our customers’ needs

  •  Communities: thoughtful expansion in key geographic areas that 

provide opportunity to apply our business model to new customers 

and communities

  •  Impact: supporting our associates and communities where we 

conduct business

As we saw in 2014, when we embrace these strategies, we can help 

customers achieve their dreams, make an impact in our communities, and 

provide meaningful returns for our shareholders.  That is when Building 

Something Different starts to become a reality that benefits Peoples Bank, 

our customers and the communities we serve.

1

 
Financial Highlights

A Message from the President and CEO

Peoples Bancorp Inc. is a $2.6 billion diversified financial 
holding company headquartered in Marietta, Ohio.  Peoples 
Bank, National Association, the company’s principal operating 
subsidiary, provides a comprehensive suite of financial 
services through its 59 offices in Ohio, West Virginia and 
Kentucky, as well as its mobile and Internet banking channels, 
and a network of 58 ATMs.  Over 700 dedicated associates 
deliver consumer and commercial banking, mortgage 

lending, personal lending, investment management, trust and 
brokerage services, together with a full range of insurance 
products.  Peoples has been in business since 1902 and 
has established a heritage of financial stability, growth and 
community impact for 113 years. 

Peoples Bancorp’s common shares are traded on the 
NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol PEBO.

Dollars in Thousands, except Per Share Data 

 2014 

2013 

2012 

2014 

2013 

Year-Over-Year Change

Earnings and Dividends 

Total revenues(1) 
Total operating expenses 
Net income available to common shareholders 
Dividends declared on common shares(2) 

Per Share Data
Earnings per common share – Basic 
Earnings per common share – Diluted 
Cash dividends paid on common shares(2) 
Book value at end of period  
Tangible book value at end of period(3)  
Closing stock price 

At Year End
Total assets 
Total investment securities 
Total loans 
Total deposits 
Common stockholders’ equity 
Trust and brokerage assets under management 

Financial Ratios
Return on average assets 
Return on average common stockholders’ equity  
Net interest margin  
Efficiency ratio(4) 
Total risk-based capital ratio  
Tangible common equity to tangible assets(3) 
Nonperforming assets to total assets 

$  109,559 
85,009 
$ 
16,684 
$ 
7,850 
$ 

$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 

1.36 
1.35 
0.60 
22.92 
15.57 
25.93 

$ 2,567,769 
$  713,659 
$ 1,620,898 
$ 1,933,074 
$  340,118 
$ 1,547,278 

0.74% 
6.16% 
3.45% 
75.37% 
15.48% 
9.39% 
0.47% 

$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 

$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 

92,605 
68,265 
17,574 
6,161 

1.65 
1.63 
0.57 
20.89 
13.57 
22.51 

$  
$  
$  
$  

$  
$  
$  
$  
$  
$  

89,446 
63,474  
20,385  
4,931 

1.92  
1.92 
0.46 
21.02  
14.52  
20.43  

$ 2,059,108 
$  680,526 
$ 1,196,234 
$ 1,580,758 
$  221,553 
$ 1,474,555 

$  1,918,050  
$   709,085 
$   985,172  
$  1,492,303 
$   221,728   
$  1,292,454  

0.91% 
7.92% 
3.23% 
71.90% 
13.78% 
7.26% 
0.39% 

1.11% 
9.52% 
3.36% 
69.55% 
15.43% 
8.28% 
 0.78% 

18.3% 
24.5% 
-5.1% 
27.4% 

-17.6% 
-17.2% 
5.3% 
9.7% 
14.7% 
15.2% 

24.7% 
4.9% 
35.5%  
22.3% 
53.5% 
4.9% 

3.5% 
7.5% 
-13.8% 
24.9% 

-14.1% 
-15.1% 
23.9% 
-0.6% 
-6.5% 
10.2% 

7.4% 
-4.0% 
21.4% 
5.9% 
-0.1% 
14.1% 

(1) Net interest income and non-interest income excluding gains/losses.   
(2) Reflects amounts declared with respect to the earnings for the period indicated.  Since Q2 2011, quarterly dividends are  
     considered and declared during the first month following quarter-end.   
(3) Excludes balance sheet impact of intangible assets acquired through acquisitions on both stockholders’ equity and total assets. 
(4) Non-interest expense (less intangible amortization) as a percentage of fully tax-equivalent net interest income plus non-interest income (excluding gains or losses on investment securities, asset disposals and other transactions). 

 “We have a much stronger          
           company today than we did 
just a year ago. Our clients are   
      expressing their satisfaction by     
                  doing more with us.”

Chuck Sulerzyski, 

President and CEO

Dear Fellow Shareholders,

Here are some of the 2014 highlights:

Last year was among the busiest and most eventful 
in the history of Peoples Bancorp.  For a 113-year-
old bank, that’s saying something. 

In 2014, we continued to deliver strong operating 
results in a challenging interest-rate environment.  
We completed three bank acquisitions totaling $500 
million in assets, even as we held the line on expenses 
and strengthened the balance sheet.  Most importantly, 
we’ve laid the groundwork for even greater success in 
2015 with the pending acquisition of National Bank and 
Trust (NB&T) scheduled to close in early March.

11%

Insurance Revenue 
Growth

Increase of 
Cross-Sell Rate to

5.6

Services Per Checking 
Account Customer

12%

Loan Growth

8%

Core Revenue Growth

4.5

%

Growth in Number of
Checking Accounts

8%

Investment Revenue 
Growth

  •  8% core revenue growth

  •  Double-digit organic loan growth in both 

consumer and commercial lending

  •  4.5% growth in number of checking accounts

  •  Increase of cross-sell rate to 5.6 services per 

checking account customer

  •  11% insurance revenue growth

  •  8% investment revenue growth

The growth accomplishments are balanced by a focus 
on controls and efficiencies.  Evidence includes:

  • Net recoveries for the year were .03%
  • Criticized loans are just 4.6% of loans
  • Core expense growth was slightly less than  

revenue growth

  • Regulators have approved our four 

  acquisitions and responded favorably to our 

processes and controls

So what is behind these results?  Why do banks 
choose us as an acquisition partner?  At a time when 
checking accounts are declining, why is Peoples able 
to grow these accounts?  How does Peoples prudently 
grow loans at a faster-than-industry pace with slow 
growth?  What challenges are ahead?

2

3

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
Tough questions…all of them!  We believe we have 
the right focus on our clients and our communities.  
Institutions have joined with us because they see 
the breadth of our products and delivery offerings.  
They see a focus on client retention and acquisition.  
They see passion and energy in our associates that 
is derived from coaching, training, and successful 
employee selection.  They can look at our results 
and know we are able to execute on our plans  
and goals.

We believe our sales volumes, cross-sale ratio, and 
checking account gains come from aligning with 
our customers.  We treat customers like family; we 
strive to learn their goals and dreams as well as 
their fears.  We work together to package products 
and services that help them achieve these goals and 
dreams and eliminate fears.  

Banking is a business of taking risks.  We provide 
capital for businesses and individuals.  While we 
are growing our loans faster than the industry, 
our portfolio-quality statistics are among the 
best in the industry.  We are able to do this by 
having a higher caliber of employee.  We recruit 
the best from larger competitors and put them in 
an environment with our talented sales team that 
enables them to respond quickly to client requests.  
Local decision makers and smart processes allow 
us to be nimble and responsive to customer needs.  
This approach can only be achieved by first being a 
strong operator that manages risks with disciplined 
processes and a prudent use of capital. 

There are many future challenges for Peoples and 
the industry.  An unclear focus from Washington 
on the direction of the economy and regulation  
inhibits industry growth.  The uncertainty in global 
markets and the increase in terrorism create 
turmoil in the markets and more uncertainty for our 
clients.  Consumers being drawn out of the banking 
system by new financial services and vehicles will 
erode our ability to grow in the long term.  Despite 
all of these challenges, we continue to build 

2012

TRANSITION

Building 
Something
Different.

2013

THE BEST COMMUNITY
BANK IN AMERICA

Transforming from good
to high-performing.

2014

OUR GROWTH CONTINUES

We announced four bank 
acquisitions totaling $1.2 billion 
in assets.  We also experienced 
double-digit organic loan 
growth in both consumer 
and commercial divisions.

products and services that make us attractive to 
the younger demographic.

Finally, the management team at Peoples has much 
to be grateful for:

  • We have a Board of Directors that has 

challenged us to do better.  Their questions and 
guidance have encouraged and facilitated a 
higher level of performance.

  • Our associates have worked tirelessly 
throughout our growth.  Their energy, 
commitment and focus represent what makes 
Peoples a special place.  These attributes are 
also what make America great.

  • Most importantly, our clients are doing more 
business with us every day.  There are more 
choices than ever in the market place.  In a time 
when consumers have many options for their 
financial needs, we are appreciative of the faith 
they have put in us.

$109.6

$92.6

$89.4

2014 2013

2012

TOTAL REVENUE
($ Millions)

$2.6

$2.1

$1.9

2014 2013

2012

TOTAL ASSETS
($ Billions)

3.45%

3.23%

3.36%

2014 2013

2012

NET INTEREST MARGIN

We plan to build on these 2014 successes in 
the coming year.  The completion of the NB&T 
acquisition in early March will open up new markets 
in southwest Ohio.  Our NB&T associates have been 
well trained and are ready to provide extraordinary 
customer service on day one.  Company-wide, we 
expect another solid year of organic loan growth 
and improved operating efficiency from our core 
businesses and acquisitions.  The full phase-in of 
NB&T in the second quarter of 2015 will position 
the company for solid second-half performance and 
pave the way for continued success in 2016.

Peoples is positioned to continue its acquisition 
strategy in 2015 as a disciplined consolidator.  
Our focus will be on profitable growth through 
bank acquisitions, large and small, within our 
market area.  This acquisition strategy also carries 
over to our well-established investment and 
insurance businesses.  We will strive to maintain 
a balanced growth between bank and non-bank 
acquisitions in an effort to maintain our highly 
diversified revenue base.

At Peoples, our slogan is “Working Together, 
Building Success.”  2014 demonstrates the power 
of what those words mean to us.  We have a much 
stronger company today than we did just a year 
ago.  Our clients are expressing their satisfaction 
by doing more with us.  Our employees are 
expressing their satisfaction by increasing their 
retention rate.  Our shareholders are benefitting 
from both of these trends. 

We believe our best days are ahead of us.  We 
appreciate your support of our journey.

All the best,

Chuck Sulerzyski, President and CEO
Chuck Sulerzyski, President and CEO

4

5

Expanding Our Presence 

2014 provided a backdrop for successful growth and expansion 

in both existing and new markets.  Our presence was shaped by 

the addition of new offices, new staff and new communities.  We 

also expanded because our loyal customers are using more of the 

services we provide.  By focusing on natural growth and seizing new 

opportunities to acquire banks in new and existing markets, Peoples 

is one of the fastest-growing community banks in the United States.

Growth and Expansion 

  •  Acquired First National Bank of Wellston ($89M and 

  two offices)

  •  Acquired Ohio Heritage Bank ($252M and six offices)

  •  Acquired North Akron Savings Bank ($147M and four offices)

  •  Announced the acquisition of National Bank and Trust 

  ($652M and 22 offices)

With the acquisition of National Bank and Trust, we are excited 

to enter the southwest Ohio market.  Our presence extends 

from northern Ohio through southern Kentucky and along the 

western edge of West Virginia.  Our markets served are a family of 

communities that reflect our local values and illustrate our focus on 

community banking.

Cleveland
Cleveland
Beachwood
Beachwood

Munroe Falls
Munroe Falls
Cuyahoga Falls
Cuyahoga Falls

Akron
Akron

Norton
Norton

2013 Footprint

Ohio Commerce Bank (late 2013)

First National Bank of Wellston

Ohio Heritage Bank

North Akron Savings Bank

Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon

New Philadelphia
New Philadelphia

National Bank & Trust (pending)

Coshocton
Coshocton

Newark
Newark
Heath
Heath

Cambridge
Cambridge

Columbus
Columbus

Dayton
Dayton

Wilmington
Wilmington

Marietta
Marietta

Cincinnati
Cincinnati

Jackson
Jackson

Wellston
Wellston

Canal Park; Akron, OH

Apple Water Tower; Jackson, OH

Huntington
Huntington

Charleston
Charleston

FPO

6

By focusing on natural growth and 
seizing new opportunities, Peoples Bank 
is one of the fastest-growing community 
banks in the United States.

7

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Expanding Our Community Commitments

Peoples’ commitment to the communities we serve is 113 years in 
the making.  Through the actions of our associates and contributions to 
our community partners, we help build lasting relationships through 
community engagement. 

Each local community has unique needs, and as much as possible  
those needs are met through contributions and volunteer efforts in  
the following areas: 

Community Investment & Economic Development 

Hundreds of Peoples Bank associates hold leadership roles in various 
community-focused organizations.  Peoples also makes a difference by 
enhancing local parks, playgrounds, community centers and historic landmarks. 

Youth & Education

Year after year, Peoples donates expertise and volunteer hours toward 
efforts that help young people succeed.  Additionally, we contribute school 
supplies, scholarship funds and partner with local schools and community 
organizations to lead recreational, cultural and financial literacy programs. 

Health & Human Services 

Peoples Bank helps various local food banks and nonprofit organizations 
provide food, clothing, health care support and other life-changing resources.  
We also raise funds and awareness for worthy causes like medical research, 
anti-poverty, domestic violence prevention and much more. 

Arts & Culture

We believe that fostering creativity and promoting the arts can help 
stimulate local economies and cultivate vibrant communities.  We support 
numerous arts and cultural initiatives like art centers, museums, concerts, 
and art and theater programs. 

Peoples Bank Theatre Board of Directors

8

9

“Peoples Bank really understands our 
business. They are a local bank that answers 
the calling of being a community presence...” 

— Linda Scott, Roscoe Village Foundation Director

Thriving Through Acquisitions: The Historic Roscoe Village

When Peoples Bank acquired Ohio Heritage Bank on August 22, 2015, the 
transaction brought with it many new relationships, including the Historic 
Roscoe Village. 

This community and regional treasure is dedicated to preserving the region’s 
canal-era history.  Yearly, over 50,000 visitors enjoy the living history tours 
and the unique blend of retail entrepreneurs that provide the community with 
goods and services.

Coshocton businessman Edward E. Montgomery, who had a passion for local 
history and Roscoe Village, began the village’s restoration in 1967.  Today 
Roscoe Village Foundation, Inc. operates the Village’s educational activities, 
which focus on the region’s historical value.  Roscoe Village Foundation 
director Linda Scott, had been associated with Ohio Heritage Bank since 
1990.  Since the acquisition, her relationship has continued to thrive with 
Peoples.  Linda noted, “Peoples Bank really understands our business.  They 
are a local bank that answers the calling of being a community presence, and 
they have made the transition process very smooth!”

“Being a non-profit, every dollar we receive is critical.  When we opened our 
accounts, Peoples Bank initiated an account review and continues that today. 
The process saves us time and money each time.”

Phil Hunt, Assistant Vice President and Branch Manager for Peoples Bank 
Coshocton, adds that “Working with Roscoe Village is a pleasure.  The strong 
trust between our organizations enables seamless service and support.” 

The ability to support the historical significance of Roscoe Village and ensure 
its bright future creates a confidence within the community.  This allows 
Peoples Bank to thrive through well-orchestrated acquisitions.

Roscoe Village Foundation Director Linda Scott

10

Historic Roscoe Village © Photo Courtesy of Roscoe Village

11

Expanded Capabilities Build Business Success

Located in Cleveland, Ohio, the Hofbrauhaus offers a unique blend of 
food, entertainment and culture.  However, without Peoples Bank it 
might not have opened!

After having successfully brought the Hofbrauhaus concept to several 
U.S. cities, the developers began focusing on Cleveland for their next 
location.  Things looked promising with the discovery of a historic 
location and a key community group partnership, but each bank they 
talked to declined to finance the project.  Dell Duncan, Senior Vice 
President, Commercial Banking Market Leader for Peoples Bank, led 
the partnership that enabled the project to proceed.

A long-time Cleveland-area banker, Dell knew the market and provided 
key insights. 

“Without Dell taking the time to get to know us, work with us, and find 
a solution to our needs, this $9 million reinvestment project would not 
have happened,” said Andi Udris, President of Hofbrauhaus Cleveland. 

Local Knowledge and Commitment Leads to Success

Demonstrating that a local community bank can outpace large 
national banks, Peoples Bank guided Hofbrauhaus through the Small 
Business Administration (SBA) application and documentation and 
was instrumental in a unique loan for the building and specialized 
equipment from Germany.  Peoples’ knowledge of SBA and our 
preferred lender status enabled a quick loan approval and efficient 
loan process, which enabled construction to start on time.

The relationship did not stop there.  “Peoples Bank staff even visit our 
restaurant and share referrals.  That is a true business partner!”  
added Udris.

“Without Dell taking the time to get to know 
us, actually work with us, and find a solution to 
our needs, this $9 million reinvestment project 
would not have happened.” 

— Andi Udris, President of Hofbrauhaus Cleveland

12

13

Building a Culture of Success

Having a culture of success means doing things right and working as 
a team in a way that produces results for our employees, customers 
and shareholders every day.  Associates earn their positions and 
participate in advanced training and coaching to provide the support 
and encouragement needed by their teams to help us build the “Best 
Community Bank in America.”

Our Associates

From helping one another to working seamlessly on bank-wide 
projects, our associates find a way to build success.

  •  In 2014, several associates experienced personal challenges, and 

we came together as an organization and supported each other 
both financially and emotionally.

  •  Peoples established an employee hardship and disaster fund, 

called the Peoples Cares Fund.  The fund was created to provide 
emergency assistance grants to employees with qualified 
emergencies.  We are proud that our associates make ongoing 
donations to the fund to help their fellow team members.

Taking Care of Customers

As always, our primary focus is on providing customer service and 
support that builds success.  By providing our customers with access 
to a broad team of experts, versed in every financial discipline, we 
create the foundation for success as well as meaningful plans and 
actions.

14

10K Begins

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

FORM 10-K

(Mark One)

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

            For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014 

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: 0-16772

PEOPLES BANCORP INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Ohio
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)

31-0987416
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

138 Putnam Street, PO Box 738, Marietta, Ohio
(Address of principal executive offices)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

45750-0738
(Zip Code)

(740) 373-3155

Title of each class
Common shares, without par value

Name of each exchange on which registered
The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:

None

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

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   No 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities 
Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), 
and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.   

Yes  

No  

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every 
Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or 
for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).        Yes 

No   

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

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

Large accelerated
filer 

Accelerated filer 

Non-accelerated filer 
(Do not check if a smaller 
reporting company)

Smaller reporting company 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). 

Yes  

No 

As of June 30, 2014, the aggregate market value of the registrant’s Common Shares (the only common equity of the registrant) held by 
non-affiliates was $282,061,000 based upon the closing price as reported on The NASDAQ Global Select Market.  For this purpose, 
executive officers and directors of the registrant are considered affiliates.

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the registrant’s classes of common stock as of the latest practicable date: 
14,893,459 common shares, without par value, at February 25, 2015.

  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
 
 
 
 
Document Incorporated by Reference:
Portions of Registrant's definitive Proxy Statement relating to the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held April 23, 2015, 
are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I

ITEM 1.

Business

ITEM 1A. Risk Factors

ITEM 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments

ITEM 2.

ITEM 3.

ITEM 4.

PART II

Properties

Legal Proceedings

Mine Safety Disclosures (not applicable)

ITEM 5.

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

Equity Securities

ITEM 6.
ITEM 7.

Selected Financial Data
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

ITEM 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

ITEM 8.

ITEM 9.

Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosures

ITEM 9A. Controls and Procedures

ITEM 9B. Other Information

PART III

ITEM 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance

ITEM 11.

Executive Compensation

ITEM 12.

Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder 

Matters

ITEM 13.

Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence

ITEM 14.

Principal Accountant Fees and Services

PART IV

ITEM 15.

Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules

SIGNATURES

EXHIBIT INDEX

3

16

22

22

23

23

24

26
28

62

62

62

62

62

115

116

116

117

117

118

119

121

2

As used in this Annual Report on Form 10-K ("Form 10-K"), "Peoples" refers to Peoples Bancorp Inc. and its 

consolidated subsidiaries collectively, except where the context indicates the reference relates solely to the registrant, Peoples 
Bancorp Inc.  Unless otherwise indicated, all note references contained in this Form 10-K refer to the Notes to the 
Consolidated Financial Statements included immediately following "ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION" of this Form 10-
K.

PART I

ITEM 1.  BUSINESS

Corporate Overview

Peoples Bancorp Inc. is a financial holding company and was organized in 1980.  Peoples operates principally through 

its wholly-owned subsidiary, Peoples Bank, National Association ("Peoples Bank").  As of the date of this Form 10-K, 
Peoples' other wholly-owned subsidiary was Peoples Investment Company.  Peoples Bank's operating subsidiaries included 
Peoples Insurance Agency, LLC ("Peoples Insurance") and two asset management companies, PBNA, L.L.C. and Peoples 
Tax Credit Equity, L.L.C.  Peoples Investment Company has one subsidiary, Peoples Capital Corporation.  

Peoples Bank was first chartered in 1902 as an Ohio banking corporation under the name "The Peoples Banking and 
Trust Company" in Marietta, Ohio, and was later reorganized as a national banking association under its current name in 
2000.  Peoples Insurance was first chartered in 1994 as an Ohio corporation under the name "Northwest Territory Property 
and Casualty Insurance Agency, Inc."  In late 1995, Peoples Insurance was awarded insurance agency powers in the State of 
Ohio, becoming the first insurance agency in Ohio to be affiliated with a financial institution.  In 2009, Peoples Insurance 
was converted from an Ohio corporation to an Ohio limited liability company under its current name.

 Peoples Investment Company, its subsidiary, Peoples Capital Corporation, and PBNA, L.L.C. were formed in 2001, and 

Peoples Tax Credit Equity, L.L.C. was formed in 2014, to optimize Peoples' consolidated capital position and provide new 
investment opportunities as a means of enhancing profitability.  These opportunities include, but are not limited to, 
investments in low-income housing tax credit funds or projects, historical tax credit funds, venture capital and other higher 
risk investments, which are either limited or restricted as investments by Peoples Bank.  Presently, the operations of these 
companies do not represent a material part of Peoples' overall business activities.

Business Overview

Peoples makes available a complete line of banking, insurance, investment and trust solutions through its financial units 

– Peoples Bank and Peoples Insurance.  These products and services include the following: 

various demand deposit accounts, savings accounts, money market accounts and certificates of deposit
commercial, consumer and real estate mortgage loans (both commercial and residential) and lines of credit
debit and automated teller machine ("ATM") cards
corporate and personal trust services
safe deposit rental facilities
money orders and cashier's checks
a full range of life, health and property and casualty insurance products
custom-tailored fiduciary, employee benefit plans and asset management services

Peoples' financial products and services are offered through its financial service locations and ATMs in Ohio, West 

Virginia and Kentucky, as well as telephone and internet-based banking through both personal computers and mobile devices.  
Brokerage services are offered exclusively through an unaffiliated registered broker-dealer located at Peoples Bank's offices.  
Peoples also makes available credit cards to consumers and businesses, as well as merchant credit card processing services, 
through joint marketing arrangements with third parties.

Peoples' business activities are currently limited to one reporting unit and reportable segment, which is community 
banking.  For a discussion of Peoples' financial performance for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014, see Peoples' 
Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements found immediately following "ITEM 
9B. OTHER INFORMATION" of this Form 10-K.

Peoples has a history of expanding its business, including its customer base and primary market area, through a 

combination of internal growth and targeted acquisitions.  The internal growth has included the opening of de novo banking 
and loan production offices located in or near Peoples' existing market area.  Acquisitions have consisted of traditional 
banking offices, both individually and as part of entire institutions, insurance agencies and financial advisory books of 
business.  The primary objectives of Peoples' expansion efforts include: (1) providing opportunities to integrate non-

3

traditional products and services, such as insurance and investments, with the traditional banking products offered to its 
clients; (2) increasing market share in existing markets;  (3) expanding Peoples' core financial service businesses of banking, 
insurance and wealth management; and (4) improving operating efficiency by redirecting resources to offices and markets 
with greater growth potential.

Recent Corporate Developments

On August 4, 2014, Peoples entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger (the "NB&T Agreement") with NB&T 
Financial Group, Inc. (“NB&T”).  The NB&T Agreement calls for NB&T to merge into Peoples and for NB&T's wholly-
owned subsidiary, The National Bank and Trust Company, which operates 22 full-service branches in southwest Ohio, to 
merge into Peoples Bank.  Under the terms of the NB&T Agreement, shareholders of NB&T will receive 0.9319 of Peoples' 
common shares and $7.75 in cash for each share of NB&T.  The NB&T transaction is expected to close during the first 
quarter of 2015, pending adoption of the NB&T Agreement by the shareholders of both NB&T and Peoples, the satisfaction 
of various closing conditions, the accuracy of the representations and warranties of each party (subject to certain exceptions), 
the performance in all material respects by each party of its obligations under the NB&T Agreement and other conditions 
customary for transactions of this type.  Additional information can be found in Note 17 of the Notes to the Consolidated 
Financial Statements.

Primary Market Area and Customers

Peoples considers its primary market area to consist of the counties where it has a physical presence and neighboring 
counties.  Peoples currently has a physical presence in the counties of Athens, Coshocton, Cuyahoga, Fairfield, Franklin, 
Gallia, Guernsey, Jackson, Knox, Licking, Meigs, Morgan, Muskingum, Noble, Summit, Tuscarawas and Washington in 
Ohio; Cabell, Kanawha, Mason, Tyler, Wetzel and Wood in West Virginia; and Boyd, Greenup and Pike in Kentucky.  This 
market area encompasses the Metropolitan Statistical Areas ("MSA") of Parkersburg-Vienna, WV, Charleston-Huntington-
Ashland, WV-KY-OH, and portions of the Cleveland-Akron-Canton, OH and Columbus-Marion-Zanesville, OH MSAs.  This 
primary market area largely consists of rural or small urban areas with a diverse group of industries and employers.  Principal 
industries in this area include health care, education and other social services; plastics, petrochemical and other 
manufacturing; oil, gas and coal production; and tourism and other service-related industries.  In addition, this market area 
overlaps both the Marcellus and Utica shale formations, which are being explored for oil and natural gas.  As a result, 
economic activity within Peoples' primary market area has been increasing steadily which is causing lower unemployment in 
Ohio and West Virginia, as well as creating growth opportunities for Peoples.  Because of this diversity of industries and 
employers, Peoples is not dependent upon any single industry segment for its business opportunities.  

Lending Activities

Peoples Bank originates various types of loans, including commercial real estate loans, real estate construction loans, 

commercial and industrial loans, residential real estate loans, home equity lines of credit, and consumer loans.  Peoples 
Bank's lending activities are focused principally on lending opportunities within its primary market areas, although Peoples 
Bank may occasionally originate loans outside its primary markets.  In general, Peoples Bank retains the majority of loans it 
originates; however, certain longer-term fixed-rate mortgage loan originations, primarily one-to-four family residential 
mortgages, are sold into the secondary market.

Peoples Bank's loans consist of credits to borrowers spread over a broad range of industrial classifications.  At 

December 31, 2014, Peoples Bank had no concentration of loans to borrowers engaged in the same or similar industries that 
exceeded 10% of total loans nor did it have any loans outstanding to non-U.S. entities.

Commercial Lending

Commercial real estate and commercial and industrial loans ("commercial loans"), including loans secured by 
commercial real estate, represent the largest portion of Peoples Bank's total loan portfolio, comprising approximately 
51.6% of total loans at December 31, 2014.  Commercial lending inherently involves a significant degree of risk of loss 
since commercial loan relationships generally involve larger loan balances than other loan classes.  Additionally, 
repayment of commercial loans normally depends on adequate cash flows of a business, which can be negatively 
impacted by adverse changes in the general economy or in a specific industry.  

Commercial Lending Practices. Loan terms include amortization schedules and interest rates commensurate with the 
purpose of each loan, the identified source of repayment and the risk involved.  The majority of Peoples Bank's 
commercial loans carry variable interest rates equal to an underlying index rate plus a margin.  Peoples Bank 
occasionally originates commercial loans with fixed interest rates for periods generally ranging from 3 to 10 years.  
The primary analytical technique used in determining whether to grant a commercial loan is the review of a schedule 

4

of cash flows to evaluate whether the borrower's anticipated future cash flows will be adequate to service both 
interest and principal due.  

On an annual basis, and at other times as warranted, Peoples Bank evaluates all loan relationships whose 
aggregate debt to Peoples Bank is greater than $1,000,000 for possible credit deterioration.  This loan review 
process provides Peoples Bank with opportunities to identify potential problem loans and take proactive actions to 
assure repayment of the loan or minimize Peoples Bank's risk of loss, such as reviewing the relationship more 
frequently based upon the loan quality rating and aggregate debt outstanding.  Upon detection of the reduced ability 
of a borrower to meet cash flow obligations, the loan is reviewed for possible downgrade or placement on 
nonaccrual status.  Loan relationships whose aggregate debt to Peoples Bank is equal to or less than $1,000,000 are 
reviewed on an event driven basis.  Triggers for review include knowledge of adverse events affecting the business, 
receipt of financial statements indicating deteriorating credit quality and other events. 

Construction Loans

Peoples Bank originates various construction loans to provide temporary financing during the construction phase for 

commercial and residential properties.  At December 31, 2014, outstanding construction loans comprised 2.4% of 
Peoples' loan portfolio.  Construction financing is generally considered to involve the highest risk since Peoples Bank is 
dependent largely upon the accuracy of the initial estimate of the property's value at completion of construction and the 
estimated cost (including interest) of construction.  If the estimated construction cost proves to be inaccurate, Peoples 
Bank may be required to advance funds beyond the amount originally committed to enable completion of the project.  If 
the estimate of value proves inaccurate, Peoples Bank may be confronted, at or prior to the maturity of the loan, with a 
project having a value insufficient to ensure full repayment, should the borrower default.  In the event a default on a 
construction loan occurs and foreclosure follows, Peoples Bank must take control of the project and attempt to either 
arrange for completion of construction or dispose of the unfinished project.  In certain cases, such as real estate 
development projects, repayment of construction loans occurs as a result of subsequent sales of the developed real estate.   
Additional risk exists as the developer may lack funds to pay the loan if the property is not sold upon completion.

Construction Lending Practices. Peoples Bank's construction lending is focused primarily on commercial and residential 
projects of select real estate developers and homebuilders.  These projects include the construction of office, retail or 
industrial complexes, and real estate development for either residential or commercial uses.  The underwriting 
criteria for construction loans are generally the same as for non-construction loans.  

To mitigate the risk of construction lending, Peoples Bank requires periodic site inspections typically completed 

by an independent third party to ensure appropriate completion of the project prior to any disbursements.  
Construction loans are structured to provide sufficient time to complete construction, including consideration for 
weather or other variables that influence completion time, although Peoples Bank generally requires the term to be 
less than three years.    

Real Estate Loans

While commercial loans comprise the largest portion of Peoples Bank's loan portfolio, generating residential real 

estate loans remains a major focus of Peoples Bank's lending efforts, whether the loans are ultimately sold into the 
secondary market or retained in Peoples Bank's loan portfolio.  At December 31, 2014, portfolio residential real estate 
loans comprised 29.6% of total loans.  Peoples also had $4.4 million of residential real estate loans held for sale and was 
servicing $352.8 million of loans, consisting primarily of one-to-four family residential mortgages, previously sold in the 
secondary market.

Peoples Bank originates both fixed-rate and adjustable-rate real estate loans.  Typically, the longer-term fixed-rate 

real estate loans are sold in the secondary market, with Peoples Bank retaining servicing rights on those loans.  In select 
cases, Peoples Bank may retain certain fixed-rate real estate loans or sell the loans without retaining the servicing rights.  

Real Estate Lending Practices. Peoples Bank typically requires residential real estate loan amounts to be no more than 
80% of the purchase price or the appraised value of the real estate securing the loan, whichever is lower, unless 
private mortgage insurance is obtained by the borrower for the percentage exceeding 80%.  In limited 
circumstances, Peoples Bank may lend up to 100% of the appraised value of the real estate, although such lending 
currently is limited to loans that qualify under established federally backed rural housing programs.  The risk 
conditions of real estate loans are considered during underwriting for the purposes of establishing an interest rate 
commensurate with the risks inherent in mortgage lending and the remaining equity of the home, if any.  

Real estate loans are typically secured by first mortgages with evidence of title in favor of Peoples Bank in the 

form of an attorney's opinion of the title or a title insurance policy.  Peoples Bank also obtains insurance, with 

5

Peoples Bank named as the mortgagee and loss payee.  Licensed appraisals are required for all real estate loans, and 
are completed by an independent third party.

Home Equity Lines of Credit

Peoples Bank originates home equity lines of credit that provide consumers with greater flexibility in financing 
personal expenditures.  At December 31, 2014, outstanding home equity lines of credit comprised 5.0% of Peoples 
Bank's total loans.  Peoples Bank currently offers home equity lines of credit with a prime-based variable rate for the 
entire 10-year term of the loan.  Peoples Bank also offers a home equity line of credit whose terms include a fixed rate 
for the first five years which converts to a variable interest rate for the remaining five years.  At December 31, 2014, total 
outstanding principal balances and available credit amounts of these convertible rate home equity lines of credit were 
$19.2 million and $21.9 million, respectively, and the weighted-average remaining maturity was 6.8 years.  The average 
original loan amount for these convertible rate home equity lines of credit was approximately $33,000 at December 31, 
2014.

Home Equity Lending Practices. Home equity lines of credit are generally made as second mortgages by Peoples Bank.  
The maximum amount of a home equity line of credit is generally limited to 80% of the appraised value of the 
property less the balance of the first mortgage.  Peoples Bank may lend up to 90% of the appraised value of the 
property (less the balance of the first mortgage) at higher interest rates that are commensurate with the additional 
risk being assumed in these situations.  The home equity lines of credit are written with ten-year terms and are 
subject to review upon request for renewal.    

Consumer Lending

Peoples Bank's consumer lending activities primarily involve loans secured by automobiles, boats, recreational 
vehicles and other personal property.  At December 31, 2014, consumer loans comprised 11.3% of Peoples Bank's loan 
portfolio.

Consumer Lending Practices. Consumer loans generally involve more risk as to collectability than real estate mortgage 
loans because of the type and nature of the collateral and, in certain instances, the absence of collateral.  As a result, 
consumer lending collections are dependent upon the borrower's continued financial stability, and are at more risk 
from adverse changes in personal circumstances.  In addition, application of various state and federal laws, including 
bankruptcy and insolvency laws, could limit the amount that may be recovered under these loans.  Credit approval 
for consumer loans typically requires demonstration of sufficiency of income to repay principal and interest due, 
stability of employment, an established credit record and sufficient collateral for secured loans.  It is the policy of 
Peoples Bank to review its consumer loan portfolio monthly and to charge-off loans that do not meet its standards, 
and to adhere strictly to all laws and regulations governing consumer lending.  A qualified compliance officer is 
responsible for monitoring regulatory compliance performance and for advising and updating loan personnel.

Peoples Bank makes available optional credit life insurance, and accident and health insurance to all qualified 

borrowers, thus reducing risk of loss when a borrower's income is terminated or interrupted due to an accident, 
disability or death.  

Overdraft Privilege

Peoples Bank grants Overdraft Privilege to qualified customers.  Overdraft Privilege is a service that provides 
overdraft protection to retail deposit customers by establishing an Overdraft Privilege amount.  After a 30-day waiting 
period to verify account activity, each new checking account usually receives an Overdraft Privilege amount of either 
$400 or $700, based on the type of account and other parameters.  Once established, customers are permitted to overdraw 
their checking account at Peoples Bank's discretion, up to their Overdraft Privilege limit, with each item over $5 being 
charged Peoples Bank's regular overdraft fee, with a maximum of seven charges per day.  Customers repay the overdraft 
with their next deposit.  Overdraft Privilege is designed to allow Peoples Bank to fill the void between traditional 
overdraft protection, such as a line of credit, and "check cashing stores".  Under federal banking regulations, Peoples 
Bank is required to obtain the consent of its customers in order to apply Overdraft Privilege to ATM and one-time debit 
card transactions.  While Overdraft Privilege generates fee income, Peoples Bank maintains an allowance for losses from 
checking accounts with overdrafts deemed uncollectable.  This allowance, along with the related provision and net 
charge-offs, is included in Peoples Bank's allowance for loan losses.  

Investment Activities

At December 31, 2014, investment securities comprised 27.8% of Peoples' total assets.  The majority of Peoples' 
investment activities are conducted through Peoples Bank, although Peoples and its non-banking subsidiaries engage in 
investment activities from time to time.  Investment activity by Peoples Bank is subject to certain regulatory guidelines and 
limitations on the types of securities eligible for purchase.  As a result, the investment securities owned by Peoples Bank 

6

include obligations of the U.S. Treasury, agencies and corporations of the U.S. government, including mortgage-backed 
securities, bank eligible obligations of any state or political subdivision in the U.S. and bank eligible corporate obligations, 
including private-label mortgage-backed securities.  The investments owned by Peoples are comprised of common stocks 
issued by various unrelated banking holding companies.  The investments owned by Peoples' non-banking subsidiaries 
currently consist of tax credit funds, corporate obligations, municipal obligations and privately issued mortgage-backed 
securities. 

Peoples' investment activities are governed internally by a written, Board of Directors approved policy, which is 
administered by Peoples' Asset-Liability Management Committee ("ALCO").  The primary purpose of Peoples' investment 
portfolio is to: (1) employ excess funds not needed for loan demand; (2) provide a source of liquid assets to accommodate 
unanticipated deposit and loan fluctuations, and overall liquidity needs; (3) provide eligible securities to secure public and 
trust funds; and (4) earn the maximum overall return commensurate with the investment's risk and corporate needs.  
Investment strategies to achieve these objectives are reviewed and approved by the ALCO.  In its evaluation of investment 
strategies, the ALCO considers various factors, including the interest rate environment, balance sheet mix, actual and 
anticipated loan demand, funding opportunities and Peoples' overall interest rate sensitivity.  The ALCO also has much 
broader responsibilities, which are discussed in the "Interest Rate Sensitivity and Liquidity" section of "ITEM 7. 
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATION" of 
this Form 10-K.

Funding Sources

Peoples' primary sources of funds for lending and investing activities are interest-bearing and non-interest-bearing 

deposits.  Cash flows from both the loan and investment portfolios, which include scheduled payments, as well as 
prepayments, calls and maturities, also provide a relatively stable source of funds.  Peoples also utilizes a variety of short-
term and long-term borrowings to fund asset growth and satisfy liquidity needs.  Peoples' funding sources are monitored and 
managed through Peoples' asset-liability management process, which is discussed further in the "Interest Rate Sensitivity and 
Liquidity" section of "ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND 
RESULTS OF OPERATION" of this Form 10-K.  

The following is a brief description of the various sources of funds utilized by Peoples:  

Deposits

Peoples Bank obtains deposits principally from individuals and businesses within its primary market area by 
offering a broad selection of deposit products to clients.  Retail deposit account terms vary with respect to the minimum 
balance required, the time the funds must remain on deposit and service charge schedules.  Interest rates paid on specific 
deposit types are determined based on (1) the interest rates offered by competitors, (2) the anticipated amount and timing 
of funding needs, (3) the availability and cost of alternative sources of funding, and (4) the anticipated future economic 
conditions and interest rates.  Retail deposits are attractive sources of funding because of their stability and relative cost, 
in addition to providing opportunities for Peoples to build long-term client relationships through the cross-selling of its 
other products and services.

Peoples Bank also offers its customers the ability to receive multi-million dollar federal deposit insurance coverage 
for certificates of deposit ("CDs") through the Certificate of Deposit Account Registry Service ("CDARS") program and 
money market deposit accounts through the Insured Cash Sweep Services ("ICS").  Under these programs, funds from 
large customer deposits are placed into accounts issued by other members of the CDARS or ICS network in increments 
below the federal deposit insurance limits to ensure both principal and interest remain eligible for insurance.

Peoples Bank occasionally obtains deposits from clients outside its primary market area, generally in the form of 
CDs and often through deposit brokers.  These deposits are used to supplement Peoples Bank's retail deposits to fund 
loans originated to customers located outside its primary market area, as well as provide diversity in funding sources.  
While these deposits may carry slightly higher interest costs than other wholesale funds, they do not require Peoples 
Bank to secure the funds with collateral, unlike most other borrowed funds.  

Additional information regarding the amounts and composition of Peoples Bank's deposits can be found in the 
'Deposits" section of "ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION 
AND RESULTS OF OPERATION" of this Form 10-K and in Note 7 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial 
Statements.

Borrowed Funds

Peoples obtains funds through a variety of short-term and long-term borrowings, which typically include advances 

from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Cincinnati ("FHLB"), Federal Funds purchased, advances from the Federal 

7

Reserve Discount Window, and repurchase agreements.  Occasionally, Peoples obtains funds from unrelated financial 
institutions in the form of term loans or revolving lines of credit.  Short-term borrowings are used generally to manage 
Peoples' daily liquidity needs since they typically may be repaid, in whole or part, at any time without a penalty.  Long-
term borrowings provide cost-effective options for funding asset growth and satisfying capital needs, due to the variety 
of pricing and maturity options available.  

Additional information regarding the amounts and composition of Peoples' borrowed funds can be found in the 

"Borrowed Funds" section of "ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL 
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATION" of this Form 10-K and in Notes 8 and 9 of the Notes to the 
Consolidated Financial Statements.

Competition

Peoples experiences intense competition within its primary market area due to the presence of several national, regional 

and local financial institutions and other service providers, including finance companies, insurance agencies and mutual 
funds.  Competition within the financial services industry continues to increase as a result of mergers between, and expansion 
of, financial services providers within and outside of Peoples' primary market areas.  In addition, the deregulation of the 
financial services industry (see the discussion of the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act of 1999 in the section of this item captioned 
"Supervision and Regulation – Bank Holding Company Act") has allowed securities firms and insurance companies that have 
elected to become financial holding companies to acquire commercial banks and other financial institutions, which can create 
additional competitive pressure.

Peoples primarily competes based on client service, convenience and responsiveness to customer needs, available 
products, rates of interest on loans and deposits, and the availability and pricing of fiduciary, employee benefit plans, 
brokerage and insurance services.  However, some competitors may have greater resources and, as such, higher lending limits 
than Peoples, which adversely affects Peoples' ability to compete.  Peoples' business strategy includes the use of a "needs-
based" sales and service approach to serve customers and incentives intended to promote customers' continued use of 
multiple financial products and services.  In addition, Peoples continues to emphasize the integration of traditional 
commercial banking products with non-traditional financial products, such as insurance and investment products.  

Peoples historically has focused on providing its full range of products and services in smaller metropolitan markets 
rather than major metropolitan areas.  While management believes Peoples has developed a level of expertise in serving the 
financial service needs of smaller communities, Peoples' primary market area has expanded into larger metropolitan areas, 
such as central and northeastern Ohio.  These larger areas typically contain entrenched service providers with an existing 
customer base much larger than Peoples' initial entry position.  As a result, Peoples may be forced to compete more 
aggressively in order to grow its market share in these areas, which could reduce current and future profit potential from such 
markets.

Employees

At December 31, 2014, Peoples had 699 full-time equivalent employees.  

Intellectual Property and Proprietary Rights

Peoples has registered the service marks "Peoples Bank (with logo)", "Peoples Bancorp", "Peoples Bank", Peoples in 

motion logo consisting of three arched ribbons, "Working Together. Building Success." and "peoplesbancorp.com" with the 
U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.  These service marks currently have expiration dates ranging from 2016 to 2021.  Peoples 
may renew the registrations of service marks with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office generally for additional 10-year 
periods indefinitely, provided it continues to use the service marks and files appropriate maintenance and renewal 
documentation with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office at the times required by the federal trademark laws and 
regulations.

Peoples has a proprietary interest in the Internet domain name "pebo.com".  Internet domain names in the U.S. and in 

foreign countries are regulated, but the laws and regulations governing the Internet are continually evolving.  

Supervision and Regulation

Peoples and its subsidiaries are subject to extensive supervision and regulation by federal and state agencies.  The 
regulation of financial holding companies and their subsidiaries is intended primarily for the protection of consumers, 
depositors, borrowers, the federal Deposit Insurance Fund and the banking system as a whole, and not for the protection of 
shareholders.  Applicable laws and regulations restrict permissible activities and investments, and require actions to protect 
loan, deposit, brokerage, fiduciary and other customers, as well as the federal Deposit Insurance Fund.  They also may restrict 
Peoples' ability to repurchase its common shares or to receive dividends from Peoples Bank, and impose capital adequacy 

8

and liquidity requirements.  The following is a summary of the regulatory agencies, statutes and related regulations that have, 
or could have, a material impact on Peoples' business.  This discussion is qualified in its entirety by reference to such 
regulations and statutes.

Financial Holding Company

Peoples is a legal entity separate and distinct from its subsidiaries and affiliated companies.  As a financial holding 
company, Peoples is subject to regulation under the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended (the "BHC Act"), 
and to inspection, examination and supervision by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (the "Federal 
Reserve Board").  

The Federal Reserve Board has extensive enforcement authority over financial holding companies.  In general, the 

Federal Reserve Board may initiate enforcement actions for violations of laws and regulations and unsafe or unsound 
practices.  The Federal Reserve Board may assess civil money penalties, issue cease and desist or removal orders, and 
require that a financial holding company divest subsidiaries, including subsidiary banks.  Peoples is also required to file 
reports and other information with the Federal Reserve Board regarding its business operations and those of its 
subsidiaries.  

Subsidiary Bank  

Peoples Bank is subject to regulation and examination primarily by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency 
(the "OCC") and secondarily by the Federal Reserve Board and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (the “FDIC”). 
OCC regulations govern permissible activities, capital requirements, dividend limitations, investments, loans and other 
matters.  The OCC has the authority to impose sanctions on Peoples Bank and, under certain circumstances, may place 
Peoples Bank into receivership. 

Peoples Bank is subject to certain restrictions imposed by the Federal Reserve Act and Federal Reserve Board 
regulations regarding such matters as the maintenance of reserves against deposits, extensions of credit to the financial 
holding company or any of its subsidiaries, investments in the stock or other securities of the financial holding company 
or its subsidiaries, and the taking of such stock or securities as collateral for loans to any borrower.

The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010 (the "Dodd-Frank Act"), signed into law 
in 2010, created the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (the "CFPB"), which regulates consumer financial products 
and services, and certain financial services providers.  The CFPB is authorized to prevent unfair, deceptive or abusive 
acts or practices, and ensures consistent enforcement of laws so that consumers have access to fair, transparent and 
competitive markets for consumer financial products and services.  The CFPB has rulemaking and interpretive authority.

Non-Banking Subsidiaries  

Peoples' non-banking subsidiaries are also subject to regulation by the Federal Reserve Board and other applicable 

federal and state agencies.  Peoples Insurance, as a licensed insurance agency, is subject to regulation by the Ohio 
Department of Insurance and the state insurance regulatory agencies of those states where it may conduct business.

Other Regulatory Agencies

Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") and The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC ("NASDAQ").  Peoples is 
also under the jurisdiction of the SEC and certain state securities commissions for matters relating to the 
offering and sale of its securities.  Peoples is subject to the registration, disclosure and regulatory requirements 
of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as 
amended (the "Exchange Act"), and the regulations promulgated thereunder, as administered by the SEC.  
Peoples' common shares are listed with NASDAQ under the symbol "PEBO" and Peoples is subject to the rules 
for NASDAQ listed companies.

Federal Home Loan Bank.  Peoples Bank is a member of the FHLB, which provides credit to its members in the 

form of advances.  As a member of the FHLB, Peoples Bank must maintain an investment in the capital stock of 
the FHLB in a specified amount.  Upon the origination or renewal of an advance, the FHLB is required by law 
to obtain and maintain a security interest in certain types of collateral.  The FHLB is required to establish 
standards of community investment or service that its members must maintain for continued access to long-term 
advances from the FHLB.  The standards take into account a member's performance under the Community 
Reinvestment Act of 1977 (the "CRA") and its record of lending to first-time homebuyers. 

Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.  The FDIC is an independent federal agency which insures the deposits, up 

to prescribed statutory limits, of federally-insured banks and savings associations, and safeguards the safety and 
soundness of the financial institution industry.  Peoples Bank's deposits are insured up to applicable limits by 

9

the Deposit Insurance Fund of the FDIC and subject to deposit insurance assessments to maintain the Deposit 
Insurance Fund.  

Insurance premiums for each insured depository institution are determined based upon the institution's 
capital level and supervisory rating provided to the FDIC by the institution's primary federal regulator and other 
information the FDIC determines to be relevant to the risk posed to the Deposit Insurance Fund by the 
institution.  The assessment rate determined by considering such information is then applied to the amount of 
the institution's average assets minus average tangible equity to determine the institution's insurance premium.  
An increase in the assessment rate could have a material adverse effect on the earnings of the affected 
institution, depending on the amount of the increase.

The FDIC may terminate insurance coverage upon a finding that an insured depository institution has 
engaged in unsafe or unsound practices, is in an unsafe or unsound condition to continue operations, or has 
violated any applicable law, regulation, rule, order or condition enacted or imposed by the institution's 
regulatory agency.

Dodd-Frank Act

Federal regulators continue to implement provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act. The Dodd-Frank Act created many new 

restrictions and an expanded framework of regulatory oversight for financial institutions, including depository 
institutions. Currently, federal regulators are still in the process of drafting the implementing regulations for many 
portions of the Dodd-Frank Act. Peoples is closely monitoring all relevant sections of the Dodd-Frank Act to ensure 
continued compliance with these regulatory requirements. The following discussion summarizes significant aspects of 
the Dodd-Frank Act that are already affecting or may affect Peoples and Peoples Bank:

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

the CFPB has been established and empowered to exercise broad regulatory, supervisory and enforcement authority 
with respect to both new and existing consumer financial protection laws; 

the Dodd-Frank Act restricts the preemption of state law by federal law and disallows subsidiaries and affiliates 
of national banks from availing themselves of such preemption;

the deposit insurance assessment base for federal deposit insurance has been expanded from domestic deposits to 
average assets minus average tangible equity;

the prohibition on the payment of interest on commercial demand deposits has been repealed, effective July 21, 
2011, thereby permitting depository institutions to pay interest on business transaction and other accounts;

the standard maximum amount of deposit insurance per customer has been permanently increased to $250,000;

financial holding companies, such as Peoples, are required to be well capitalized and well managed and must 
continue to be both well capitalized and well managed in order to acquire banks located outside their home states;

new corporate governance requirements, which are generally applicable to most larger public companies, now 
require new compensation practices, including, but not limited to, providing shareholders the opportunity to cast 
a non-binding vote on executive compensation, requiring compensation committees to consider the independence 
of compensation advisors and meeting new executive compensation disclosure requirements;

the Dodd-Frank Act amended the Electronic Fund Transfer Act to, among other things, give the Federal Reserve 
Board the authority to establish rules regarding interchange fees charged for electronic debit transactions by payment 
card issuers having assets over $10 billion, and to enforce a new statutory requirement that such fees be reasonable 
and proportional to the actual cost of a transaction to the issuer (although the cap is not applicable to Peoples Bank, 
it may have an adverse effect on Peoples Bank as the debit cards issued by Peoples Bank and other smaller banks, 
which have higher interchange fees, may become less competitive); 

new capital regulations have been adopted as discussed below in the section captioned "Capital Adequacy and 
Prompt Corrective Action";

"ability to repay" regulations took effect in 2014 and generally require creditors to make a reasonable, good faith 
determination (considering at least 8 specified underwriting factors) of a consumer's ability to repay any consumer 
credit transaction secured by a dwelling (excluding an open-end credit plan, timeshare plan, reverse mortgage or 
temporary loan) and provides a presumption that the creditor making a "qualified mortgage" satisfied the ability-
to-repay requirements; and

• 

the authority of the Federal Reserve Board to examine financial holding companies and their non-bank subsidiaries 
was expanded.

10

Many aspects of the Dodd-Frank Act are still subject to rulemaking and will take effect over several years, making it 

difficult to anticipate the overall financial impact on Peoples, its subsidiaries, their respective customers or the financial 
services industry more generally.  However, the implementation of certain provisions have already increased compliance 
costs and the implementation of future provisions will likely increase both compliance costs and fees paid to regulators, 
along with possibly restricting the operations of Peoples and its subsidiaries.

Bank Holding Company Act

In general, the BHC Act limits the business of bank holding companies to banking, managing or controlling banks, 
and other activities that the Federal Reserve Board has determined to be so closely related to banking as to be a proper 
incident thereto.  As a result of the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act of 1999 - also known as the Financial Services 
Modernization Act of 1999 - which amended the BHC Act, bank holding companies that are financial holding companies 
may engage in any activity, or acquire and retain the shares of a company engaged in any activity, that is either (1) 
financial in nature or incidental to such financial activity (as determined by the Federal Reserve Board in consultation 
with the OCC) or (2) complementary to a financial activity, and that does not pose a substantial risk to the safety and 
soundness of depository institutions or the financial system generally (as solely determined by the Federal Reserve 
Board).  Activities that are financial in nature include securities underwriting and dealing, insurance underwriting and 
making merchant banking investments.  In 2002, Peoples elected, and received approval from the Federal Reserve 
Board, to become a financial holding company. 

In order for a financial holding company to commence any new activity permitted by the BHC Act, or to acquire a 
company engaged in any new activity permitted by the BHC Act, each insured depository institution subsidiary of the 
financial holding company must have received a rating of at least “satisfactory” in its most recent examination under the 
CRA, which is more fully discussed in the section captioned "Community Reinvestment Act" included later in this item.  
In addition, financial holding companies, like Peoples, are permitted to acquire companies engaged in activities that are 
financial in nature and in activities that are incidental and complementary to financial activities without prior Federal 
Reserve Board approval. 

The BHC Act and other federal and state statutes regulate acquisitions of commercial banks.  The BHC Act requires 

the prior approval of the Federal Reserve Board for the direct or indirect acquisition of more than 5% of the voting 
shares of a commercial bank or its parent holding company.  Under the federal Bank Merger Act, the prior approval of 
the OCC is required for a national bank to merge with another bank or purchase the assets or assume the deposits of 
another bank.  In reviewing applications seeking approval of merger and acquisition transactions, the bank regulatory 
authorities will consider, among other things, the competitive effect and public benefits of the transactions, the capital 
position of the combined organization, the applicant's performance record under the CRA and fair housing laws, and the 
effectiveness of the subject organizations in combating money laundering activities.

Under Federal Reserve Board policy, a financial holding company is expected to act as a source of financial strength 
to each subsidiary bank and to commit resources to support each subsidiary bank.  Under this policy, the Federal Reserve 
Board may require a financial holding company to contribute additional capital to an undercapitalized subsidiary bank 
and may disapprove of the payment of dividends to the shareholders if the Federal Reserve Board believes the payment 
of such dividends would be an unsafe or unsound practice.

Transactions with Affiliates, Directors, Executive Officers and Shareholders

Sections 23A and 23B of the Federal Reserve Act and Federal Reserve Board Regulation W generally:

• 

• 

• 

limit the extent to which a bank or its subsidiaries may engage in "covered transactions" with any one affiliate;

limit the extent to which a bank or its subsidiaries may engage in "covered transactions" with all affiliates; and

require that all such transactions be on terms substantially the same, or at least as favorable to the bank or 
subsidiary, as those provided to a non-affiliate.

An affiliate of a bank is any company or entity that controls, is controlled by or is under common control with the 

bank.  The term "covered transaction" includes the making of  loans to the affiliate, the purchase of assets from the 
affiliate, the issuance of a guarantee on behalf of the affiliate, the purchase of securities issued by the affiliate and other 
similar types of transactions.

A bank's authority to extend credit to executive officers, directors and greater than 10% shareholders, as well as 

entities such persons control, is subject to Sections 22(g) and 22(h) of the Federal Reserve Act and Regulation O 
promulgated under that Act by the Federal Reserve Board.  Among other things, these loans must be made on terms 
(including interest rates charged and collateral required) substantially the same as those offered to unaffiliated 
individuals, or be made as part of a benefit or compensation program and on terms widely available to employees, and 

11

must not involve a greater than normal risk of repayment.  In addition, the amount of loans a bank may make to these 
persons is based, in part, on the bank's capital position, and specified approval procedures must be followed in making 
loans which exceed specified amounts.

Capital Adequacy and Prompt Corrective Action 

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Improvement Act of 1991 ("FDICIA"), among other things, identifies 

five capital categories for insured depository institutions and requires the respective federal regulatory agencies to 
implement systems for “prompt corrective action” for insured depository institutions that do not meet minimum capital 
requirements within such categories.  The federal regulatory agencies, including the Federal Reserve Board and the 
OCC, have adopted substantially similar regulatory capital guidelines and regulations consistent with the requirements of 
FDICIA, as well as established a system of prompt corrective action to resolve certain problems of undercapitalized 
institutions.  This system is based on five capital level categories for insured depository institutions:  "well capitalized"; 
"adequately capitalized"; "undercapitalized"; "significantly undercapitalized" and "critically undercapitalized".  

The federal banking agencies may (or in some cases must) take certain supervisory actions depending upon a bank's 

capital level.  For example, the banking agencies must appoint a receiver or conservator for a bank within 90 days after 
the bank becomes "critically undercapitalized" unless the bank's primary regulator determines, with the concurrence of 
the FDIC, that other action would better achieve regulatory purposes.  Banking operations otherwise may be significantly 
affected depending on a bank's capital category.  For example, a bank that is not "well capitalized" generally is prohibited 
from accepting brokered deposits and offering interest rates on deposits higher than the prevailing rate in its market, and 
the holding company of any undercapitalized bank must guarantee, in part, specific aspects of the bank's capital plan for 
the plan to be acceptable.

The Federal Reserve Board has adopted risk-based capital guidelines for financial holding companies and other bank 

holding companies, as well as state member banks. The OCC and the FDIC have adopted risk-based capital guidelines 
for national banks and state non-member banks, respectively. The guidelines provide a systematic analytical framework 
which makes regulatory capital requirements sensitive to differences in risk profiles among banking organizations, takes 
off-balance sheet exposures expressly into account in evaluating capital adequacy, and minimizes disincentives to 
holding liquid, low-risk assets. Capital levels, as measured by these standards, are also used to categorize financial 
institutions for purposes of certain prompt corrective action regulatory provisions.

Prior to January 1, 2015, the guidelines included a minimum for the ratio of total capital to risk-weighted assets of 
8%, with at least half of the ratio composed of common shareholders’ equity, minority interests in certain equity accounts 
of consolidated subsidiaries and a limited amount of qualifying preferred stock and qualified trust preferred securities, 
less goodwill and certain other intangible assets (known as “tier 1” risk-based capital).  The guidelines also provided for 
a minimum ratio of tier 1 capital to average assets, or “leverage ratio,” of 3% for financial holding companies and bank 
holding companies that met certain criteria, including having the highest regulatory rating, and 4% for all other financial 
holding companies and bank holding companies. 

The risk-based capital guidelines adopted by the federal banking agencies are based on the “International 

Convergence of Capital Measurement and Capital Standard” (Basel I), published by the Basel Committee on Banking 
Supervision (the “Basel Committee”) in 1988.  In 2004, the Basel Committee published a new capital adequacy 
framework (Basel II) for large, internationally active banking organizations, and in December 2010 and January 2011, 
the Basel Committee issued an update to Basel II (“Basel III”).  The Basel Committee frameworks did not become 
applicable to banks supervised in the U.S. until adopted into U.S. law or regulations.  Although the U.S. banking 
regulators imposed some of the Basel II and Basel III rules on banks with $250 billion or more in assets or $10 billion of 
on-balance sheet foreign exposure, it was not until July 2013 that the U.S. banking regulators issued final (or, in the case 
of the FDIC, interim final) new capital rules applicable to smaller banking organizations which also implement certain of 
the provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act (the “Basel III Capital Rules”).  Community banking organizations, including 
Peoples and Peoples Bank, began transitioning to the new rules on January 1, 2015.  The new minimum capital 
requirements became effective on January 1, 2015; whereas, a new capital conservation buffer and deductions from 
common equity capital phase in from January 1, 2016 through January 1, 2019, and most deductions from common 
equity tier 1 capital will phase in from January 1, 2015 through January 1, 2019.   

The new rules include (a) a new common equity tier 1 capital ratio of at least 4.5%, (b) a tier 1 capital ratio of at 

least 6.0%, rather than the former 4.0%, (c) a minimum total capital ratio that remains at 8.0%, and (d) a minimum 
leverage ratio of 4.0%.

12

Common equity for the common equity tier 1 capital ratio includes common stock (plus related surplus) and retained 
earnings, plus limited amounts of minority interests in the form of common stock, less the majority of certain regulatory 
deductions.         

Tier 1 capital includes common equity as defined for the common equity tier 1 capital ratio, plus certain non-
cumulative preferred stock and related surplus, cumulative preferred stock and related surplus and trust preferred 
securities that have been grandfathered (but which are not permitted going forward), and limited amounts of minority 
interests in the form of additional tier 1 capital instruments, less certain deductions.

Tier 2 capital, which can be included in the total capital ratio, includes certain capital instruments (such as 

subordinated debt) and limited amounts of the allowance for loan and lease losses, subject to new eligibility criteria, less 
applicable deductions.

The deductions from common equity tier 1 capital include goodwill and other intangibles, certain deferred tax 
assets, mortgage-servicing assets above certain levels, gains on sale in connection with a securitization, investments in a 
banking organization’s own capital instruments and investments in the capital of unconsolidated financial institutions 
(above certain levels).  The deductions phase in from 2015 through 2019.  

Under the guidelines, capital is compared to the relative risk related to the balance sheet.  To derive the risk included 

in the balance sheet, one of several risk weights is applied to different balance sheet and off-balance sheet assets, 
primarily based on the relative credit risk of the counterparty.  The capital amounts and classification are also subject to 
qualitative judgments by the regulators about components, risk weightings and other factors.  Some of the risk 
weightings have been changed effective January 1, 2015.

The new rules also place restrictions on the payment of capital distributions, including dividends, and certain 
discretionary bonus payments to executive officers if the company does not hold a capital conservation buffer of greater 
than 2.5 percent composed of common equity tier 1 capital above its minimum risk-based capital requirements, or if its 
eligible retained income is negative in that quarter and its capital conservation buffer ratio was less than 2.5 percent at 
the beginning of the quarter.  The capital conservation buffer phases in starting on January 1, 2016, at .625%.  

The implementation of the portion of Basel III that has been phased in as of the date of this Form 10-K did not have 

a material impact on Peoples’ or Peoples Bank’s capital ratios.  Further, the implementation of Basel III, once fully 
phased in,  is not expected to have a material impact on Peoples’ or Peoples Bank’s capital ratios.

In order to be "well capitalized", a bank must have a common equity tier 1 capital ratio of at least 6.5%, a total risk-
based capital of at least 10.0%, a tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of at least 8.0% and a leverage ratio of at least 5.0%, and 
the bank must not be subject to any written agreement, order, capital directive or prompt corrective action directive to 
meet and maintain a specific capital level for any capital measures.  Peoples' management believes that Peoples and 
Peoples Bank meet the ratio requirements to be deemed "well capitalized" according to the guidelines described above.  
See Note 15 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

Community Reinvestment Act

The CRA requires depository institutions to assist in meeting the credit needs of their market areas consistent with 

safe and sound banking practice.  Under the CRA, each depository institution is required to help meet the credit needs of 
its market areas by, among other things, providing credit or other financial assistance to low and moderate-income 
individuals and communities.  Depository institutions are periodically examined for compliance with the CRA and are 
assigned ratings.  As of December 31, 2014, the OCC's most recent performance evaluation of Peoples Bank resulted in 
an overall rating of "Satisfactory".

Dividend Restrictions

Current federal banking regulations impose restrictions on Peoples Bank's ability to pay dividends to Peoples.  These 

restrictions include a limit on the amount of dividends that may be paid in a given year without prior approval of the 
OCC and a prohibition on paying dividends that would cause Peoples Bank's total capital to be less than the required 
minimum levels under the capital requirements imposed by the OCC.  Peoples Bank's regulators may prohibit the 
payment of dividends at any time if the regulators determine the dividends represent unsafe and/or unsound banking 
practices, or reduce Peoples Bank's total capital below adequate levels.  For further discussion regarding regulatory 
restrictions on dividends, refer to Note 15 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements. 

Peoples' ability to pay dividends to its shareholders may also be restricted.  Current Federal Reserve Board policy 
requires a financial holding company to act as a source of financial strength to each of its banking subsidiaries.  Under 
this policy, the Federal Reserve Board may require Peoples to commit resources or contribute additional capital to 
Peoples Bank, which could restrict the amount of cash available for dividends. 

13

The Federal Reserve Board has also issued a policy statement with regard to the payment of cash dividends by 
financial holding companies and other bank holding companies.  The policy statement provides that, as a matter of 
prudent banking, a financial holding company or bank holding company should not maintain a rate of cash dividends 
unless its net income available to common shareholders has been sufficient to fully fund the dividends, and the 
prospective rate of earnings retention appears to be consistent with the financial holding company's or bank holding 
company's capital needs, asset quality and overall financial condition.  Accordingly, a financial holding company or bank 
holding company should not pay cash dividends that exceed its net income or can only be funded in ways that weaken 
the financial holding company's or bank holding company's financial health, such as by borrowing.

Peoples also has entered into certain agreements that place restrictions on dividends.  Specifically, Peoples Bank is  

prohibited from paying dividends in an amount greater than permitted by law without requiring prior OCC or other 
regulatory approval.  Even when the legal ability exists, Peoples or Peoples Bank may decide to limit the payment of 
dividends in order to retain earnings for corporate use.

Customer Privacy and Other Consumer Protections

Peoples Bank is subject to regulations limiting the ability of financial institutions to disclose non-public information 
about consumers to nonaffiliated third parties.  These limitations require disclosure of privacy policies to consumers and, 
in some circumstances, allow consumers to prevent disclosure of certain personal information to a nonaffiliated party.  
Peoples Bank is also subject to numerous federal and state laws aimed at protecting consumers, including the Home 
Mortgage Disclosure Act, the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act, the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, the Truth in 
Lending Act, the Bank Secrecy Act, the Community Reinvestment Act and the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

USA Patriot Act

The Uniting and Strengthening of America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct 
Terrorism Act of 2001 (the "USA Patriot Act") and related regulations, among other things, require financial institutions 
to establish programs specifying procedures for obtaining identifying information from customers seeking to establish 
new accounts and establishing enhanced due diligence policies, procedures and controls designed to detect and report 
suspicious activity.  Peoples Bank has established policies and procedures that Peoples believes comply with the 
requirements of the USA Patriot Act.

Monetary Policy

The Federal Reserve Board regulates money and credit conditions and interest rates in order to influence general 
economic conditions primarily through open market operations in U.S. government securities, changes in the discount 
rate on bank borrowings, and changes in the reserve requirements against depository institutions' deposits.  These 
policies and regulations significantly affect the overall growth and distribution of loans, investments and deposits, as 
well as interest rates charged on loans and paid on deposits.

The monetary policies of the Federal Reserve Board have had a significant effect on the operating results of 
financial institutions in the past and are expected to continue to have significant effects in the future.  In light of the 
changing conditions in the economy, the money markets and the activities of monetary and fiscal authorities, Peoples can 
make no definitive predictions as to future changes in interest rates, credit availability or deposit levels.

Volcker Rule

In December 2013, five federal agencies adopted a final regulation implementing the Volcker Rule provision of the 

Dodd-Frank Act (the "Volcker Rule"). The Volcker Rule places limits on the trading activity of insured depository 
institutions and entities affiliated with a depository institution, subject to certain exceptions. The trading activity includes 
a purchase or sale as principal of a security, derivative, commodity future or option on any such instrument in order to 
benefit from short-term price movements or to realize short-term profits. The Volcker Rule exempts specified U.S. 
government, agency and/or municipal obligations, and it excepts trading conducted in certain capacities, including as a 
broker or other agent, through a deferred compensation or pension plan, as a fiduciary on behalf of customers, to satisfy 
a debt previously contracted, repurchase and securities lending agreements, and risk-mitigating hedging activities.

The Volcker Rule also prohibits a banking entity from having an ownership interest in, or certain relationships with, 

a hedge fund or private equity fund, with a number of exceptions. Peoples Bank does not engage in any of the trading 
activities or does not have an amount recorded on its financial statements for any ownership interest in or relationship 
with any of the types of funds regulated by the Volcker Rule.

Executive and Incentive Compensation

In June 2010, the Federal Reserve Board, the OCC and the FDIC issued joint interagency guidance on incentive 
compensation policies (the "Joint Guidance") 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. 

14

This principles-based 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: (1) provide incentives that do not encourage risk-taking beyond the 
organization's ability to effectively identify and manage risks; (2) be compatible with effective internal controls and risk 
management; and (3) be supported by strong corporate governance, including active and effective oversight by the 
organization's board of directors. 

Pursuant to the Joint Guidance, the Federal Reserve Board will review, as part of a regular, risk-focused examination 

process, the incentive compensation arrangements of financial institutions such as Peoples and Peoples Bank. Such 
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 and deficiencies will be incorporated into the institution's supervisory ratings, which can affect 
the institution's ability to complete acquisitions and take other actions. Enforcement actions may be taken against an 
institution if its incentive compensation arrangements, or related risk-management control or governance processes, pose 
a risk to the organization's safety and soundness, and prompt and effective measures are not being taken to correct the 
deficiencies. 

On February 7, 2011, federal banking regulatory agencies jointly issued proposed rules on incentive-based 
compensation arrangements under applicable provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act (the "Proposed Joint Rules"). The 
Proposed Joint Rules generally apply to financial institutions with $1.0 billion or more in assets that maintain incentive-
based compensation arrangements for certain covered employees. The Proposed Joint Rules: (1) prohibit covered 
financial institutions from maintaining incentive-based compensation arrangements that encourage covered persons to 
expose the institution to inappropriate risk by providing the covered person with "excessive" compensation; (2) prohibit 
covered financial institutions from establishing or maintaining incentive-based compensation arrangements for covered 
persons that encourage inappropriate risks that could lead to a material financial loss; (3) require covered financial 
institutions to maintain policies and procedures appropriate to their size, complexity and use of incentive-based 
compensation to help ensure compliance with the Proposed Joint Rules; and (4) require covered financial institutions to 
provide enhanced disclosure to regulators regarding their incentive-based compensation arrangements for covered 
persons within 90 days following the end of the fiscal year.

Pursuant to rules adopted by the stock exchanges and approved by the SEC in January 2013 under the Dodd-Frank 
Act, public company compensation committee members must meet heightened independence requirements and consider 
the independence of compensation consultants, legal counsel and other advisors to the compensation committee.  A 
compensation committee must have the authority to hire advisors and to have the public company fund reasonable 
compensation of such advisors.

Public companies will be required, once stock exchanges impose additional listing requirements under the Dodd-

Frank Act, to implement "clawback" procedures for incentive compensation payments and to disclose the details of the 
procedures which allow recovery of incentive compensation that was paid on the basis of erroneous financial information 
necessitating a restatement due to material noncompliance with financial reporting requirements. This clawback policy is 
intended to apply to compensation paid within a three-year look-back window of the restatement and would cover all 
executives who received incentive awards. 

Effect of Environmental Regulation 

 Compliance with federal, state and local provisions regulating the discharge of materials into the environment, or 

otherwise relating to the protection of the environment, has not had a material effect upon the capital expenditures, 
earnings or competitive position of Peoples and its subsidiaries. Peoples believes the nature of the operations of its 
subsidiaries has little, if any, environmental impact. Peoples, therefore, anticipates no material capital expenditures for  
environmental control facilities for its current fiscal year or for the foreseeable future.

Peoples believes its primary exposure to environmental risk is through the lending activities of Peoples Bank. In 

cases where management believes environmental risk potentially exists, Peoples Bank mitigates its environmental risk 
exposures by requiring environmental site assessments at the time of loan origination to confirm collateral quality as to 
commercial real estate parcels posing higher than normal potential for environmental impact, as determined by reference 
to present and past uses of the subject property and adjacent sites. In addition, environmental assessments are typically 
required prior to any foreclosure activity involving non-residential real estate collateral.

15

Future Legislation 

 Various and significant legislation affecting financial institutions and the financial industry is from time to time 

introduced by the U.S. Congress, as evidenced by the sweeping reforms in the Dodd-Frank Act adopted in 2010. Such 
legislation may continue to change banking statutes and the operating environment of Peoples and its subsidiaries in 
substantial and unpredictable ways, and could significantly increase or decrease costs of doing business, limit or expand 
permissible activities, or affect the competitive balance among financial institutions. With the enactment of the Dodd-
Frank Act and the continuing implementation of final rules and regulations thereunder, the nature and extent of future 
legislative and regulatory changes affecting financial institutions remains very unpredictable.

Website Access to Peoples' SEC Filings

Peoples maintains an Internet website at www.peoplesbancorp.com (this uniform resource locator, or URL, is an inactive 

textual reference only and is not intended to incorporate Peoples' Internet website into this Form 10-K).  Peoples makes 
available free of charge on or through its website, its annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current 
reports on Form 8-K and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange 
Act, as well as Peoples' definitive proxy statement filed pursuant to Section 14 of the Exchange Act, as soon as reasonably 
practicable after Peoples electronically files each such report or amendment with, or furnishes it to, the SEC. 

ITEM 1A.  RISK FACTORS

The following are certain risks that management believes are specific to Peoples' business.  This should not be viewed as 
an all-inclusive list of risks or presenting the risk factors listed in any particular order.  Additional risks that are not presently 
known or that Peoples presently deems to be immaterial could also have a material, adverse impact on Peoples' business, 
financial condition or results of operations.

•  Conditions in the financial markets, the real estate markets and economic conditions generally may adversely 

affect Peoples' business.

Peoples' financial performance generally is highly dependent upon the business environment and economic 
conditions in the markets where it operates and, to a lesser extent, the U.S as a whole.  The local economies of the 
majority of Peoples' market area historically have been less robust than the economy of the nation as a whole and 
typically are not subject to the same fluctuations as the national economy.  More recently, oil and gas exploration has 
created more activity in some of Peoples' market areas.  A significant decline in this activity could result in more adverse 
conditions than what may be experienced at the national level.  In general, a favorable business environment and 
economic conditions are 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.

Overall, some economic indicators show signs of improvement, however, many businesses, states and municipalities 

are still in serious difficulty, due to reduced cash flow and weakened financial condition.  Further, there can be no 
assurance this improvement will continue or be spread evenly throughout the markets served by Peoples.  A lack of a 
return to favorable economic conditions in a reasonable time frame could have an adverse affect on Peoples' asset 
quality, deposit levels and loan demand and, therefore, Peoples' financial condition and results of operations.  Because a 
significant amount of Peoples' loans are secured by either commercial or residential real estate, decreases in real estate 
values could adversely affect the value of property used as collateral and Peoples' ability to sell the collateral upon 
foreclosure.

•  Completion of the merger contemplated by the NB&T Agreement is subject to many conditions and if these 

conditions are not satisfied or waived, the merger between Peoples and NB&T will not be completed.

The respective obligations of Peoples and NB&T to complete the merger contemplated by the NB&T Agreement are 

subject to the fulfillment or written waiver of many conditions, including approval by the requisite vote of the Peoples 
and the NB&T shareholders, respectively, absence of orders prohibiting completion of the merger, the continued 
accuracy of the representations and warranties by both parties, and the performance by both parties of their respective 
covenants and agreements.  These conditions to the consummation of the Peoples - NB&T merger may not be fulfilled 
and, accordingly, the merger may not be completed.  In addition, if the merger is not completed by March 31, 2015, 
either Peoples or NB&T may have the opportunity to choose not to proceed with the merger, and Peoples and NB&T can 
mutually decide to terminate the NB&T Agreement at any time, before or after the approvals by the requisite vote of the 
Peoples and the NB&T shareholders, respectively.

16

•  Peoples' ability to complete acquisitions and integrate completed acquisitions could have an adverse affect on 

Peoples' business, earnings and financial condition.

Peoples actively evaluates opportunities to acquire other businesses. However, Peoples may not have the opportunity 

to make suitable acquisitions on favorable terms in the future, which could negatively impact the growth of its business. 
Peoples expects that other banking and financial companies, many of which have significantly greater resources, will 
compete to acquire compatible businesses. This competition could increase prices for acquisitions that Peoples would 
likely pursue, and its competitors may have greater resources to pay such acquisition prices than Peoples does. Also, 
acquisitions of regulated businesses such as banks are subject to various regulatory approvals.  Peoples has entered into 
an amended loan agreement that requires Peoples to obtain the lender's consent to acquire another financial institution in 
certain circumstances.  If Peoples fails to receive the appropriate approvals, it will not be able to consummate an 
acquisition that it believes is in its best interest.

During 2014, Peoples completed three bank acquisitions which required integration of the acquired business into 

Peoples' business platform.  Peoples may not be able to integrate new acquisitions without encountering difficulties, 
including the loss of key employees and customers, the disruption of ongoing businesses or possible inconsistencies in 
standards, controls, procedures and policies. Peoples may not be able to fully achieve the strategic objectives and 
operating efficiencies anticipated in the acquisitions it completes.  Future acquisitions may also result in other unforeseen 
difficulties, including integration of the combined companies. Further, benefits such as enhanced earnings anticipated 
from the acquisitions may not develop and future results of the combined companies may be materially lower from those 
estimated.

•  Legislative or regulatory changes or actions, or significant litigation, could adversely impact Peoples or the 

businesses in which it is engaged.

The financial services industry is heavily regulated under both federal and state law. Peoples is subject to regulation 

and supervision by the Federal Reserve Board, and Peoples Bank is subject to regulation and supervision by the OCC, 
and secondarily the FDIC. These regulations are primarily intended to protect depositors and the Deposit Insurance 
Fund, not Peoples' common shareholders. Peoples' non-bank subsidiaries are also subject to the supervision of the 
Federal Reserve Board, in addition to other regulatory and self-regulatory agencies, including the SEC and state 
securities and insurance regulators.

Regulations affecting banks and financial services businesses are undergoing continuous change, and management 

cannot predict the effect of those changes. The impact of any changes to laws and regulations or other actions by 
regulatory agencies could adversely affect Peoples' business. Regulatory authorities have extensive discretion in 
connection with their supervisory and enforcement activities, including the imposition of restrictions on the operation of 
an institution, the classification of assets held by an institution and the appropriateness of an institution's allowance for 
loan losses.  Additionally, actions by regulatory agencies or significant litigation against Peoples could cause Peoples to 
devote significant time and resources to defending its business and may lead to penalties that materially affect Peoples 
and its shareholders.  

In light of current conditions in the global financial markets and the global economy, regulators have increased their 

focus on the regulation of the financial services industry.  Most recently, the U.S. Congress and the federal agencies 
regulating the financial services industry have acted on an unprecedented scale in responding to the stresses experienced 
in the global financial markets.  Some of the laws enacted by the U.S. Congress and regulations promulgated by federal 
regulatory agencies subject Peoples, Peoples Bank and other financial institutions to which such laws and regulations 
apply, to additional restrictions, oversight and costs that may have an impact on Peoples' business, results of operations 
or the trading price of Peoples' common shares.  In addition to laws, regulations and actions directed at the operations of 
banks, proposals to reform the housing finance market consider winding down Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, which 
could negatively affect sales of loans.

In July 2013, Peoples' primary federal regulator, the Federal Reserve, published final rules (the "Basel III Capital 
Rules") establishing a new comprehensive capital framework for U.S. banking organizations.  The rules implement the 
Basel Committee's December 2010 framework known as "Basel III" for strengthening international capital standards, as 
well as certain provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act. The Basel III Capital Rules substantially revise the risk-based capital 
requirements applicable to financial holding companies and other bank holding companies as well as depository 
institutions, including Peoples and Peoples Bank, compared to the previous U.S. risk-based capital rules. The Basel III 
Capital Rules define the components of capital and address other issues affecting the numerator in banking institutions' 
regulatory capital ratios. The Basel III Capital Rules also address risk weights and other issues affecting the denominator 
in banking institutions' regulatory capital ratios and replace the existing risk-weighting approach, which was derived 
from Basel I capital accords of the Basel Committee, with a more risk-sensitive approach based, in part, on the 

17

standardized approach in the Basel Committee's 2004 "Basel II" capital accords. The Basel III Capital Rules also 
implement the requirements of Section 939A of the Dodd-Frank Act to remove references to credit ratings from the 
federal banking agencies' rules. The Basel III Capital Rules became effective for Peoples and Peoples Bank on January 1, 
2015 (subject to a phase-in period). Although the implementation of Basel III, once fully phased in, is not expected to 
have a material impact on Peoples' or Peoples Bank's capital ratios, any future changes to capital requirements would 
have such an effect.

Further information about government regulation of Peoples' business can be found under the caption "Supervision 

and Regulation" in "ITEM 1. BUSINESS" of this Form 10-K. 

•  The Dodd-Frank Act and its progeny may adversely impact Peoples' results of operations, financial condition or 

liquidity. 

The Dodd-Frank Act represents a comprehensive overhaul of the financial services industry within the U.S. There 
are a number of reform provisions that are likely to significantly impact the ways in which banks, as well as financial 
holding companies and bank holding companies, including Peoples and Peoples Bank, do business. Many provisions of 
the Dodd-Frank Act still have not been implemented and will require interpretation and rule making by federal 
regulators, including banking regulators and the SEC.  In addition, the CFPB has only recently begun to implement its 
authority, and there is significant uncertainty as to how its regulations and other authority will affect Peoples' business.  
Peoples is closely monitoring all relevant sections of the Dodd-Frank Act to ensure continued compliance with laws and 
regulations. While the full effect of the Dodd-Frank Act on Peoples and Peoples Bank cannot currently be determined, 
the law and its implemented rules and regulations have already resulted in increased compliance costs and may result in 
increased fees paid to regulators, along with restrictions on Peoples' and Peoples Bank's operations, all of which may 
have a material adverse affect on Peoples' operating results and financial condition.  A detailed discussion regarding the 
Dodd-Frank Act can be found under the caption "Supervision and Regulation" in "ITEM 1. BUSINESS" of this Form 10-
K. 

•  Defaults by larger financial institutions could adversely affect Peoples' business, earnings and financial condition.

The commercial soundness of many financial institutions may be closely interrelated as a result of relationships 
between and among the institutions.  As a result, concerns about, or a default or threatened default by, one institution 
could lead to significant market-wide liquidity and credit problems, losses or defaults by other institutions.  This 
"systemic risk" may adversely affect Peoples' business.

Additionally, Peoples' investment portfolio continues to include investments in individual bank-issued trust 

preferred securities.  Under current market conditions, the fair value of these security types is based predominately on the 
present value of cash flows expected to be received in future periods.  Significant defaults by other financial institutions 
could adversely affect conditions within the financial services industry, thereby causing investors to require higher rates 
of return for these investments.  These factors could cause Peoples to recognize additional impairment losses on its 
investment in bank-issued trust preferred securities in future periods.

•  Peoples' failure to be in compliance with any material provision or covenant of debt instruments could have a 

material adverse effect on Peoples' liquidity and operations.

The amended loan agreement governing Peoples' unsecured term note imposes operating and financial restrictions 

on Peoples. These restrictions may affect Peoples' operations and may limit the ability to take advantage of potential 
business opportunities as they arise. Peoples' ability to comply with the covenants included in the amended loan 
agreement may be affected by events beyond Peoples' control, including deteriorating economic conditions, and these 
events could require Peoples to seek waivers or amendments of covenants, or alternative sources of financing.  Peoples' 
ability to obtain such waivers, amendments or alternative financing, may be on terms unfavorable to Peoples.

A breach of any of the covenants or restrictions contained in any of the existing or future financing agreements, 

including the financial covenants, could result in an event of default under the agreements. Such a default could allow 
the lenders under the financing agreements, if the agreements so provide, to discontinue lending, to accelerate the related 
debt, and/or to declare all borrowings outstanding thereunder to be due and payable. In addition, the lenders could 
terminate any commitments they have to provide Peoples with further funds. If any of these events occur, Peoples may 
not have sufficient funds available to pay in full the total amount of obligations that become due as a result of any such 
acceleration, or Peoples may not be able to find additional or alternative financing to refinance any such accelerated 
obligations. Even if additional or alternative financing is obtained, it may be on terms that would be unfavorable to 
Peoples.

18

•  Increases in FDIC insurance premiums may have a material adverse affect on Peoples' earnings.

Peoples Bank has limited ability to control the amount of premiums it is required to pay for FDIC insurance.  The 

Deposit Insurance Fund maintained by the FDIC to resolve bank failures is funded by fees assessed on insured 
depository institutions, such as Peoples Bank.  The costs of resolving bank failures have increased during the last four 
years and decreased the Deposit Insurance Fund balance.  The FDIC collected a special assessment in 2009 to replenish 
the Deposit Insurance Fund and also required a prepayment of an estimated amount of future deposit insurance 
premiums.  If the costs of future bank failures increase, deposit insurance premiums may also increase.  Increases in 
FDIC insurance premiums may have a material adverse effect on Peoples' results of operations and ability to continue to 
pay dividends on its common shares at the current rate or at all.

•  Changes in interest rates may adversely affect Peoples' profitability.

Peoples' earnings and cash flows are dependent to a significant degree on net interest income, which is the amount 

by which interest income exceeds interest expense.  Interest rates are highly sensitive to many factors that are beyond 
Peoples' control, including general economic conditions and policies of various governmental and regulatory agencies 
and, in particular, the Federal Reserve Board.  Changes in monetary policy, including changes in interest rates, could 
influence not only the interest Peoples receives on loans and securities and the amount of interest it pays on deposits and 
borrowings, but such changes could also affect (1) Peoples' ability to originate loans and obtain deposits, (2) the fair 
value of Peoples' financial assets and liabilities, and (3) the average duration of Peoples' mortgage-backed securities 
portfolio.  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, Peoples' net interest income and, therefore, earnings, could be adversely 
affected.  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. 

Management uses various measures to monitor interest rate risk and believes it has implemented effective asset and 

liability management strategies to reduce the potential effects of changes in interest rates on Peoples' results of 
operations.  Management also periodically adjusts the mix of assets and liabilities to manage interest rate risk.  However, 
any substantial, unexpected, prolonged change in market interest rates could have a material adverse effect on Peoples' 
financial condition and results of operations.  See the sections captioned "Interest Income and Expense" and "Interest 
Rate Sensitivity and Liquidity" in "ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL 
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS" of this Form 10-K for further discussion related to Peoples' interest 
rate risk. 

•  Peoples' exposure to credit risk could adversely affect Peoples' earnings and financial condition.

There are certain risks inherent in making loans.  These risks include interest rate changes over the time period in 
which loans may be repaid, risks resulting from changes in the economy, risks inherent in dealing with borrowers and, in 
the case of loans secured by collateral, risks resulting from uncertainties about the future value of the collateral.

Commercial and commercial real estate loans comprise a significant portion of Peoples' loan portfolio.  Commercial 

loans generally are viewed as having a higher credit risk than residential real estate or consumer loans because they 
usually involve larger loan balances to a single borrower and are more susceptible to a risk of default during an economic 
downturn.  Since Peoples' loan portfolio contains a significant number of commercial loans, the deterioration of one or a 
few of these loans could cause a significant increase in nonperforming loans, and ultimately could have a material 
adverse effect on Peoples' earnings and financial condition.

•  Peoples' allowance for loan losses may be insufficient to absorb the probable, incurred losses in its loan portfolio.
Peoples maintains an allowance for loan losses that is believed to be a reasonable estimate of the probable, incurred 
losses within the loan portfolio based on management's quarterly analysis of the loan portfolio.  The determination of the 
allowance for loan losses requires management to make various assumptions and judgments about the collectability of 
Peoples' loan portfolio, including the creditworthiness of its borrowers and the value of the real estate and other assets 
serving as collateral for the repayment of loans.  Additional information regarding Peoples' allowance for loan losses 
methodology and the sensitivity of the estimates can be found in the discussion of Peoples' "Critical Accounting 
Policies" included in "ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION 
AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS" of this Form 10-K.

Peoples' estimation of future loan losses is susceptible to changes in economic, operating and other conditions, 

including changes in interest rates, which may be beyond Peoples' control, and these losses may exceed current 
estimates.  Peoples cannot be assured of the amount or timing of losses, nor whether the loan loss allowance will be 
adequate in the future.

19

If Peoples' assumptions prove to be incorrect, Peoples' allowance for loan losses may not be sufficient to cover the 
probable, incurred losses in its loan portfolio, resulting in additions to the allowance for loan losses which could have a 
material adverse impact on Peoples' financial condition and results of operations.  In addition, bank regulators 
periodically review Peoples' allowance for loan losses as part of their examination process and may require management 
to increase the allowance or recognize further loan charge-offs based on judgments different than those of management.  
Moreover, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") may change its requirements for establishing the 
allowance.  Any increase in the provision for loan losses would decrease Peoples' pretax and net income.

•  Changes in accounting standards, policies, estimates or procedures may impact Peoples' reported financial 

condition or results of operations.

The accounting standard setters, including the FASB, the SEC and other regulatory bodies, periodically change the 
financial accounting and reporting standards that govern the preparation of Peoples' Consolidated Financial Statements. 
The pace of change continues to accelerate and changes in accounting standards can be difficult to predict and can 
materially impact how Peoples records and reports its financial condition and results of operations. In some cases, 
Peoples could be required to apply a new or revised standard retroactively, resulting in the restatement of prior period 
financial statements.

The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in 
the United States of America ("US GAAP") requires management to make significant estimates that affect the financial 
statements. Due to the inherent nature of these estimates, actual results may vary materially from management's 
estimates.  Additional information regarding Peoples' critical accounting policies and the sensitivity of estimates can be 
found in the section captioned "Critical Accounting Policies" in "ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND 
ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS" of this Form 10-K.

•  Peoples and Peoples Bank may elect or be compelled to seek additional capital in the future, but that capital may 

not be available when it is needed.

Peoples and Peoples Bank are required by federal and state regulatory authorities to maintain adequate levels of 

capital to support their operations.  Federal banking agencies have adopted extensive changes to their capital 
requirements, including raising required amounts and eliminating the inclusion of certain instruments from the 
calculation of capital.  If Peoples Bank experiences significant loan losses, additional capital may be needed.  In addition, 
Peoples and Peoples Bank may elect to raise additional capital to support their businesses or to finance acquisitions, if 
any, or for other unanticipated reasons.  Their ability to raise additional capital, if needed, will depend on financial 
performance, conditions in the capital markets, economic conditions and a number of other factors, many of which are 
outside their control. Therefore, there can be no assurance additional capital can be raised when needed or that capital 
can be raised on acceptable terms.  The inability to raise capital may have a material adverse effect on Peoples' financial 
condition, results of operations and potential acquisitions.      

•  The financial services industry is very competitive.

Peoples experiences significant competition in originating loans, principally from other commercial banks, savings 

associations and credit unions.  Several of Peoples' competitors have greater resources, larger branch systems and a 
wider array of banking services.  This competition could reduce Peoples' net income by decreasing the number and size 
of loans that Peoples originates and the interest rates it may charge on these loans.  Moreover, technology and other 
changes are allowing businesses and individuals to utilize alternative methods to complete financial transactions that 
historically have involved banks.  For example, consumers can now maintain funds in brokerage accounts or mutual 
funds that in the past had been held as bank deposits.  Consumers can also complete transactions such as paying bills 
and/or transferring funds directly without the assistance of banks.  The process of eliminating the use of banks to 
complete financial transactions could result in the loss of fee income, as well as the loss of customer deposits and the 
related income generated from those deposits.  The loss of these revenue streams and lower cost deposits as a source of 
funding could have a material adverse effect on Peoples' financial condition and results of operations.  If Peoples is 
unable to compete effectively, Peoples would lose market share, which could reduce income generated from deposits, 
loans and other products.  For a more complete discussion of Peoples' competitive environment, see "Competition" in 
"ITEM 1. BUSINESS" of this Form 10-K.

•  Peoples' ability to pay dividends is limited.

Peoples is a separate and distinct legal entity from Peoples' subsidiaries.  Peoples receives nearly all of its revenue 

from dividends from Peoples Bank, which are limited by federal banking laws and regulations.  These dividends also 
serve as the primary source of funds to pay dividends on Peoples' common shares.  The inability of Peoples Bank to pay 
sufficient dividends to Peoples could have a material, adverse effect on its business.  Further discussion of Peoples' 

20

ability to pay dividends can be found under the caption "Supervision and Regulation - Dividend Restrictions" in "ITEM 
1. BUSINESS" of this Form 10-K and Note 15 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

•  Peoples' business could be adversely affected by interruptions in the effective operations of, or security breaches 

affecting its computer systems and telecommunications networks or those of a third-party service provider.

Peoples collects, processes and stores sensitive consumer data by utilizing computer systems and 

telecommunications networks operated by both Peoples and third-party service providers.  Peoples has security and 
backup and recovery systems in place, as well as a business continuity plan, to ensure the computer systems will not be 
inoperable, to the extent possible.  Peoples also has implemented security controls to prevent unauthorized access to the 
computer systems and requires Peoples' third-party service providers to maintain similar controls.  However, 
management cannot be certain these measures will be successful.  A security breach of the computer systems and release 
of confidential information, such as customer account numbers and related information, or an attack on Peoples' 
computer systems or telecommunications networks could negatively affect customers' confidence in Peoples, which may 
cause a loss of business, and could result in Peoples' incurring financial losses for any fraudulent transactions completed 
by third parties due to the security breach and being exposed to risks of litigation and increased regulatory scrutiny.

•  Anti-takeover provisions may delay or prevent an acquisition or change in control by a third party.

Provisions in the Ohio General Corporation Law and Peoples' Amended Articles of Incorporation and Code of 
Regulations, including a staggered board and a supermajority vote requirement for significant corporate changes, could 
discourage potential takeover attempts and make attempts by shareholders to remove Peoples' Board of Directors and 
management more difficult.  These provisions may also have the effect of delaying or preventing a transaction or change 
in control that might be in the best interests of Peoples' shareholders.

•  Peoples is exposed to operational risk.

Similar to any large organization, Peoples is exposed to many types of operational risk, including reputational risk, 
legal and compliance risk, the risk of fraud or theft by employees or outsiders, unauthorized transactions by employees 
or operational errors, including clerical or record-keeping errors or those resulting from faulty or disabled computer or 
telecommunications systems.

Negative public opinion can result from Peoples’ actual or alleged conduct in any number of activities, including 

lending practices, corporate governance and acquisitions, and from actions taken by governmental regulators and 
community organizations in response to those activities. Negative public opinion can adversely affect Peoples’ ability to 
attract and keep customers, and can expose Peoples to potential litigation and regulatory action.

Given the volume of transactions Peoples processes, certain errors may be repeated or compounded before they are 
discovered and successfully rectified. Peoples’ necessary dependence upon automated systems to record and process its 
transaction volume may further increase the risk that technical system flaws or employee tampering or manipulation of 
those systems will result in losses that are difficult to detect.  Peoples may also be subject to disruptions of its operating 
systems arising from events that are wholly or partially beyond its control (for example, computer viruses or electrical or 
telecommunications outages), which may give rise to disruption of service to customers and to financial loss or liability. 
Peoples is further exposed to the risk that its external vendors may be unable to fulfill their contractual obligations (or 
will be subject to the same risk of fraud or operational errors by their respective employees as Peoples is) and to the risk 
that Peoples' (or its vendors’) business continuity and data security systems prove to be inadequate.

•  Peoples depends upon the accuracy and completeness of information about customers and counterparties.

In deciding whether to extend credit or enter into other transactions with customers and counterparties, Peoples may 

rely on information provided by customers and counterparties, including financial statements and other financial 
information. Peoples may also rely on representations of customers and counterparties as to the accuracy and 
completeness of that information and, with respect to financial statements, on reports of independent auditors. For 
example, in deciding whether to extend credit to a business, Peoples Bank may assume that the customer’s audited 
financial statements conform with US GAAP and present fairly, in all material respects, the financial condition, results of 
operations and cash flows of the customer. Peoples Bank may also rely on the audit report covering those financial 
statements. Peoples’ financial condition, results of operations and cash flows could be negatively impacted to the extent 
that Peoples Bank relies on financial statements that do not comply with US GAAP or on financial statements and other 
financial information that are materially misleading.

•  Changes in tax laws could adversely affect Peoples' performance.

Peoples is subject to extensive federal, state and local taxes, including income, excise, sales/use, payroll, franchise, 

withholding and ad valorem taxes.  Changes to tax laws could have a material adverse effect on Peoples' results of 
operations.  In addition, Peoples' customers are subject to a wide variety of federal, state and local taxes.  Changes in 

21

taxes paid by Peoples' customers may adversely affect their ability to purchase homes or consumer products, which could 
adversely affect their demand for loans and deposit products.  In addition, such negative effects on Peoples' customers 
could result in defaults on the loans made by Peoples Bank and decrease the value of mortgage-backed securities in 
which Peoples has invested.

•  Peoples and its subsidiaries are subject to examinations and challenges by tax authorities.

In the normal course of business, Peoples and its subsidiaries are routinely subject to examinations and challenges 

from federal and state tax authorities regarding positions taken regarding their respective tax returns.  State tax 
authorities have become increasingly aggressive in challenging tax positions taken by financial institutions, especially 
those positions relating to tax compliance and calculation of taxes subject to apportionment.  Any challenge or 
examination by a tax authority may result in adjustments to the timing or amount of taxable net worth or taxable income, 
or deductions or the allocation of income among tax jurisdictions. 

Management believes it has taken appropriate positions on all tax returns filed, to be filed or not filed, and does not 
anticipate any examination would have a material impact on Peoples' Consolidated Financial Statements.  However, the 
outcome of such examinations and ultimate resolution of any resulting assessments are inherently difficult to predict.  
Thus, no assurance can be given that Peoples' tax liability for any tax year open to examination will not be different than 
what is reflected in Peoples' current and historical Consolidated Financial Statements.  Further information can be found 
in the "Critical Accounting Policies - Income Taxes" section of "ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND 
ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS" of this Form 10-K.

•  Peoples or one of its subsidiaries may be a defendant from time to time in the future in a variety of litigation and 

other actions, which could have a material adverse effect on Peoples' financial condition, results of operations and 
cash flows.

Peoples and its subsidiaries may be involved from time to time in the future in a variety of litigation arising out of 

their respective businesses.  The risk of litigation increases in times of increased troubled loan collection activity.  
Peoples' insurance may not cover all claims that may be asserted against Peoples and its subsidiaries, and any claims 
asserted against them, regardless of merit or eventual outcome, may harm their respective reputations.  Should the 
ultimate judgments or settlements in any litigation exceed the applicable insurance coverage, they could have a material 
adverse effect on Peoples' financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.  In addition, Peoples or one of its 
subsidiaries may not be able to obtain appropriate types or levels of insurance in the future, nor may they be able to 
obtain adequate replacement policies with acceptable terms, if at all.

ITEM 1B.  UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

None.

ITEM 2.  PROPERTIES

Peoples' sole banking subsidiary, Peoples Bank, generally owns its offices, related facilities and unimproved real 
property.  In Ohio, Peoples Bank operates offices in Akron, Athens (2 offices), Baltimore, Beachwood, Belpre (2 offices), 
Byesville, Caldwell, Cambridge (2 offices), Coshocton (2 Offices), Cuyahoga Falls,  Gallipolis, Heath, Jackson, Lancaster (2 
offices), Lowell, Marietta (5 offices), McConnelsville, Mount Vernon, Munroe Falls, Nelsonville, New Philadelphia, Newark, 
Norton, Pomeroy (2 offices), The Plains, Wellston, Worthington and Zanesville.  In West Virginia, Peoples Bank operates 
offices in Charleston, Huntington (2 offices), New Martinsville (2 offices), Parkersburg (4 offices), Point Pleasant (2 offices), 
Sistersville and Vienna (2 offices).  In Kentucky, Peoples Bank's office locations include Ashland (2 offices), Greenup and 
Russell.  Of these 56 offices, 14 are leased and the rest are owned by Peoples Bank.  

Peoples Insurance rents office space in various Peoples Bank offices, and also leases office space from third parties in 

Chillicothe and Jackson, Ohio, and in Pikeville, Kentucky.

22

Rent expense on the leased properties totaled $934,000 in 2014, which excludes intercompany rent expense.  The 

following are the only properties that have a lease term expiring on or before June 2016:

Location

Marietta Kroger

Athens Mall

Marietta Frontier

Munroe Falls

The Plains

Jackson

Address

40 Acme Street
Marietta, Ohio
801 East State Street
Athens, Ohio
124 Gross Street
Marietta, Ohio
34 South Main Street
Munroe Falls, Ohio
70 N. Plains Road
The Plains, Ohio
78 Broadway Street
Jackson, Ohio

Lease Expiration Date (a)

March 2015

June 2015

November 2015

December 2015

December 2015

May 2016

(a) Information represents the ending date of the current lease period.  For some locations, Peoples has the option to renew 
the lease beyond the current expiration date under the terms of the lease agreement.

Additional information concerning the property and equipment owned or leased by Peoples and its subsidiaries is 

incorporated herein by reference from Note 5 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

ITEM 3.  LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

In the ordinary course of their respective businesses or operations, Peoples or one of its subsidiaries may be named as a 
plaintiff, a defendant, or a party to a legal proceeding or any of their respective properties may be subject to various pending 
and threatened legal proceedings and various actual and potential claims.  In view of the inherent difficulty of predicting the 
outcome of such matters, Peoples cannot state what the eventual outcome of any such matters will be; however, based on 
current knowledge and after consultation with legal counsel, management believes these proceedings will not have a material 
adverse effect on the consolidated financial position, results of operations or liquidity of Peoples.

ITEM 4.  MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

Not applicable.

23

PART II

ITEM 5.  MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND 

ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

Peoples' common shares are traded on The NASDAQ Global Select Market® under the symbol PEBO.  At December 31, 

2014, Peoples had approximately 2,248 shareholders of record.  The table presented below provides the high and low sales 
prices for Peoples' common shares as reported on The NASDAQ Global Select Market® and the cash dividends per common 
share declared during the indicated periods.

2014

Fourth Quarter

Third Quarter

Second Quarter

First Quarter
2013

Fourth Quarter

Third Quarter

Second Quarter

First Quarter

High 
Sales

Low
Sales

Dividends
Declared

$

26.65 $

23.39 $

28.00

27.36

26.10

23.00

23.58

20.29

$

24.00 $

20.11 $

23.81

22.34

22.65

20.02

19.30

20.00

0.15

0.15

0.15

0.15

0.14

0.14

0.14

0.12

Peoples plans to continue to pay quarterly cash dividends, subject to certain regulatory restrictions described in Note 15 

of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, as well as in the section captioned "Supervision and Regulation – 
Dividend Restrictions" of "ITEM 1 - BUSINESS" of this Form 10-K.

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

The following table details repurchases by Peoples and purchases by "affiliated purchasers" as defined in Rule 10b-18(a)

(3) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, of Peoples' common shares during the three months ended 
December 31, 2014:

(a)
Total 
Number of 
Common 
Shares 

Purchased  

(b)
Average Price 
Paid per 
Common Share  

 (c)
Total Number of 
Common Shares 
Purchased as Part of 
Publicly Announced 
Plans or Programs (1)

(d)
Maximum
Number of Common 
Shares that May Yet Be 
Purchased Under the 
Plans or Programs (1)

1,935 (2)(3) $
$

700 (2)
260 (2)

$
  $

24.87 (2)(3)
24.90 (2)
26.32 (2)
25.00

—

—

—
—

—

—

—
—

Period

October 1 - 31, 2014

November 1 - 30, 2014

December 1 - 31, 2014

Total

2,895

(1)  Peoples' Board of Directors did not authorize any stock repurchase plans or programs for 2014.
(2)  Information includes 280 common shares, 700 common shares, and 260 common shares purchased in open market transactions 
during  October,  November,  and  December,  respectively,  by  Peoples  Bank  under  the  Rabbi Trust Agreement.   The  Rabbi Trust 
Agreement establishes a rabbi trust that holds assets to provide funds for the payment of the benefits under the Peoples Bancorp 
Inc. Third Amended and Restated Deferred Compensation Plan for Directors of Peoples Bancorp Inc. and Subsidiaries.

(3)  Also includes 1,655 common shares withheld in October to pay income tax or other tax liabilities associated with vested restricted 

common shares.

24

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Performance Graph

The following Performance Graph and related information shall not be deemed “soliciting material” or to be “filed” 

with the SEC, nor shall such information be deemed to be incorporated by reference into any future filing under the 
Securities Act or the Exchange Act, except to the extent that Peoples specifically incorporates the Performance Graph by 
reference into such filing.

The following line graph compares the five-year cumulative total shareholder return of Peoples' common shares, based 

on an initial investment of $100 on December 31, 2009, and assuming reinvestment of dividends, against that of an index 
comprised of all domestic common shares traded on The NASDAQ Stock Market (“NASDAQ Stocks (U.S. Companies)”), 
and an index comprised of all depository institutions (SIC Code #602) and depository institution holding companies (SIC 
Code #671) that are traded on The NASDAQ Stock Market (“NASDAQ Bank Stocks”).  

COMPARISON OF FIVE-YEAR TOTAL RETURN AMONG
PEOPLES BANCORP INC., NASDAQ STOCKS (U.S. COMPANIES), 
AND NASDAQ BANK STOCKS
(NASDAQ OMX Global Indices)

Peoples Bancorp Inc.
NASDAQ Stocks (U.S. Companies)
NASDAQ Bank Stocks

2009
100.00 $
100.00 $
100.00 $

2010
166.16 $
118.13 $
114.15 $

$
$
$

At December 31,
2012
2011
227.00 $
161.06 $
137.86 $
117.20 $
121.11 $
102.13 $

2013
256.37 $
193.24 $
171.63 $

2014
302.75
221.89
180.08

25

 
 
ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

The information below has been derived from Peoples' Consolidated Financial Statements.

At or For the Year Ended December 31,

2014

2013

2012

2011

2010

Loans, net of deferred fees and costs

1,620,898

1,196,234

985,172

938,506

960,718

713,659 $

680,526 $

709,085 $

669,228 $

641,307

Operating Data (a)

Total interest income

Total interest expense

Net interest income

Provision for (recovery of) loan losses

Net impairment losses on investment securities

Net (loss) gain on investment securities and other  
  transactions

Total non-interest income

FDIC insurance expense

Other expense

Preferred dividends (b)

Net income available to common shareholders
Balance Sheet Data (a)

Total investment securities

$

$

Allowance for loan losses

Total intangible assets

Total assets

Non-interest-bearing deposits

Total retail interest-bearing deposits

Brokered certificates of deposits

Short-term borrowings

Long-term borrowings

Junior subordinated debentures held by subsidiary trust

Preferred stockholders' equity (b)

Common stockholders' equity

Tangible assets (c)

Tangible equity (c)

Tangible common equity (c)
Per Common Share Data (a)

Earnings per common share – basic

Earnings per common share – diluted

Cash dividends declared per common share

Book value per common share (d)

$

$

$

80,200 $

67,071 $

69,470 $

75,133 $

10,694

69,506

339

—

(33)
40,053

1,260

83,749

—

11,686

55,385
(4,410)
—

334

37,220

1,036

67,229

—

14,995

54,475
(4,716)
—

(778)
34,971

1,002

62,472

—

21,154

53,979

7,998

—

(443)
32,944

1,867

59,464

1,343

16,684 $

17,574 $

20,385 $

11,212 $

89,335

29,433

59,902

26,916
(1,786)

(39)
31,634

2,470

54,572

2,052

3,529

17,881

109,158

17,065

77,603

17,811

68,525

23,717

64,475

26,766

64,870

2,567,769

2,059,108

1,918,050

1,794,161

1,837,985

493,162

409,891

317,071

239,837

215,069

1,400,221

1,121,826

1,119,633

1,047,189

1,059,066

39,691

88,277

179,083

—

—

49,041

113,590

121,826

—

—

55,599

47,769

128,823

—

—

64,054

51,643

142,312

22,600

—

87,465

51,509

157,703

22,565

38,645

340,118

221,553

221,728

206,657

192,036

2,458,611

1,981,505

1,849,525

1,729,686

1,773,115

230,960

143,950

153,203

142,182

165,811

230,960 $

143,950 $

153,203 $

142,182 $

127,166

1.36 $

1.65 $

1.92 $

1.07 $

1.35

0.60

22.92

1.63

0.54

20.89

1.92

0.45

21.02

1.07

0.30

19.67

0.34

0.34

0.40

18.36

12.16

Tangible book value per common share (c)(d)

$

15.57 $

13.57 $

14.52 $

13.53 $

Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding
–  basic

Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding
–  diluted

12,183,352 10,581,222 10,527,885 10,482,318 10,424,474

12,306,224 10,679,417 10,528,286 10,482,318 10,431,990

Common shares outstanding at end of period

14,836,727 10,605,782 10,547,960 10,507,124 10,457,327

26

 
 
SIGNIFICANT RATIOS (a)
Return on average stockholders' equity
Return on average common stockholders' equity
Return on average assets
Net interest margin
Efficiency ratio (c)(e)
Pre-provision net revenue to total average assets (f)
Average stockholders' equity to average assets
Average loans to average deposits
Dividend payout ratio
ASSET QUALITY RATIOS (a)
Nonperforming loans as a percent of total loans (d)(g)
Nonperforming assets as a percent of total assets (d)(g)
Nonperforming assets as a percent of total loans and other real
  estate owned (d)(g)

Allowance for loan losses as a percent of originated loans, net of
deferred fees and costs (d)
Allowance for loan losses as a percent of nonperforming loans (d)(g)
Provision for (recovery of) loan losses as a percent of average total
  loans

Net (recoveries) charge-offs as a percent of average total loans
CAPITAL RATIOS (a)(c)
Tier 1 common
Tier 1
Total (Tier 1 and Tier 2)
Tier 1 leverage
Tangible equity to tangible assets (c)
Tangible common equity to tangible assets (c)

(a)  Includes impact of acquisitions as of the acquisition dates.

At or For the Year Ended December 31,

2014

2013

2012

2011

2010

9.52%
6.16 % 7.92 %
9.52
6.16
1.11
0.74
3.36
3.45
69.55
75.37
1.41
1.10
11.63
12.08
79.58
68.23
43.10 % 33.20 % 23.58% 28.35% 119.33%

2.33%
1.76
0.28
3.51
60.30
1.76
12.20
73.01

5.72%
5.61
0.69
3.43
68.98
1.41
12.12
69.86

7.92
0.91
3.23
71.90
1.26
11.48
70.79

0.69 % 0.60 %
0.47

0.39

1.43%
0.78

3.26%
1.83

4.26%
2.48

0.75

1.48

0.67

1.58

1.52

1.86

3.48

2.53

4.70

2.79

159.58

237.87

125.34

77.26

65.09

0.02

(0.42)

(0.49)

0.84

2.61

(0.03)% (0.35)%

0.12%

1.16%

2.66%

14.32 % 12.42 % 14.06% 12.82% 11.59%
14.06
14.32
15.43
15.48
8.83
9.92
8.28
9.39
8.28%
9.39 % 7.26 %

16.91
18.24
10.63
9.35
7.17%

14.86
16.20
9.45
8.22
8.22%

12.42
13.78
8.52
7.26

(b)  Amounts relate to Series A Preferred Shares issued and sold by Peoples in connection with its participation in the TARP Capital Purchase 

Program.  Additional information regarding the Series A Preferred Shares can be found in Note 10 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial 
Statements included immediately following "ITEM 9B - OTHER INFORMATION" of this Form 10-K.

(c)  These amounts represent non-GAAP financial measures since they exclude the balance sheet impact of intangible assets acquired through 

acquisitions on both total stockholders’ equity and total assets.  Additional information regarding the calculation of these measures can be found 
in "ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS" of this 
Form 10-K under the caption “Capital/Stockholders’ Equity”.

(d)  Data presented as of the end of the year indicated.

(e)  Non-interest expense (less intangible asset amortization) as a percentage of fully tax-equivalent net interest income plus non-interest income 

(excluding gains or losses on investment securities, asset disposals and other transactions).

(f)  These amounts represent non-GAAP financial measures since they exclude the provision for loan losses and all gains and losses included in 

earnings.  Additional information regarding the calculation of these measures can be found in "ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND 
ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS" of this Form 10-K under the caption “Pre-Provision Net 
Revenue”.

(g)  Nonperforming loans include loans 90 days past due and accruing, renegotiated loans and nonaccrual loans. Nonperforming assets include 

nonperforming loans and other real estate owned.

27

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

OPERATIONS

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this Form 10-K, which are not historical fact, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of 

Section 27A of the Securities Act , Section 21E of the Exchange Act, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 
1995.  Words such as “anticipate”, “estimates”, “may”, “feels”, “expects”, “believes”, “plans”, “will”, “would”, “should”, 
“could” and similar expressions are intended to identify these forward-looking statements but are not the exclusive means of 
identifying such statements.  Forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results 
to differ materially.  Factors that might cause such a difference include, but are not limited to:

(1) 

(2) 

(3) 

(4) 

(5) 

(6) 

(7) 

(8) 

(9) 

(10) 

(11) 

(12) 

(13) 

(14) 

the success, impact, and timing of the implementation of Peoples' business strategies, including the 
successful integration of recently completed acquisitions and the expansion of consumer lending activity;

Peoples' ability to integrate the Midwest Bancshares, Inc. ("Midwest"), Ohio Heritage Bancorp, Inc. ("Ohio 
Heritage") and North Akron Savings Bank ("North Akron") acquisitions and any future acquisitions, 
including the pending merger of NB&T into Peoples, may be unsuccessful, or may be more difficult, time-
consuming or costly than expected;

the ability of Peoples and NB&T to obtain their respective shareholders' approval of the merger may be 
unsuccessful;

Peoples may issue equity securities in connection with future acquisitions, which could cause ownership 
and economic dilution to Peoples' current shareholders;

local, regional, national and international economic conditions and the impact they may have on Peoples 
and its customers, and Peoples' assessment of the impact, which may be different than anticipated;

competitive pressures among financial institutions or from non-financial institutions may increase 
significantly, including product and pricing pressures, third-party relationships and revenues, and Peoples' 
ability to attract, develop and retain qualified professionals;

changes in the interest rate environment due to economic conditions and/or the fiscal policies of the U.S. 
government and Federal Reserve Board, which may adversely impact interest rates, interest margins and 
interest rate sensitivity;

changes in prepayment speeds, loan originations, levels of non-performing assets, delinquent loans and 
charge-offs, which may be less favorable than expected and adversely impact the amount of interest income 
generated;

adverse changes in the economic conditions and/or activities, including, but not limited to, impacts from 
the implementation of the Budget Control Act of 2011 and the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012, as 
well as continued economic uncertainty in the U.S., the European Union, and other areas, which could 
decrease sales volumes and increase loan delinquencies and defaults;

legislative or regulatory changes or actions, including in particular the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and 
Consumer Protection Act of 2010 and the regulations promulgated and to be promulgated thereunder by the 
Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, the Federal Reserve Board and the Consumer Financial 
Protection Bureau, which may subject Peoples, its subsidiaries, or one or more acquired companies to a 
variety of new and more stringent legal and regulatory requirements which adversely affect their respective 
businesses;

deterioration in the credit quality of Peoples' loan portfolio, which may adversely impact the provision for 
loan losses;

changes in accounting standards, policies, estimates or procedures which may adversely affect Peoples' 
reported financial condition or results of operations;

Peoples' assumptions and estimates used in applying critical accounting policies, which may prove 
unreliable, inaccurate or not predictive of actual results;

adverse changes in the conditions and trends in the financial markets, including political developments, 
which may adversely affect the fair value of securities within Peoples' investment portfolio, the interest rate 

28

sensitivity of Peoples' consolidated balance sheet, and the income generated by Peoples' trust and 
investment activities;

(15) 

Peoples' ability to receive dividends from its subsidiaries;

(16) 

Peoples' ability to maintain required capital levels and adequate sources of funding and liquidity;

(17) 

the impact of new minimum capital thresholds established as a part of the implementation of Basel III;

(18) 

(19) 

(20) 

the impact of larger or similar sized financial institutions encountering problems, which may adversely 
affect the banking industry and/or Peoples' business generation and retention, funding and liquidity;

the costs and effects of regulatory and legal developments, including the outcome of potential regulatory or 
other governmental inquiries and legal proceedings and results of regulatory examinations;

Peoples' ability to secure confidential information through the use of computer systems and 
telecommunications networks, including those of Peoples' third-party vendors and other service providers, 
may prove inadequate, which could adversely affect customer confidence in Peoples and/or result in 
Peoples incurring a financial loss;

(21) 

the overall adequacy of Peoples' risk management program;

(22) 

(23) 

the impact on Peoples' businesses, as well as on the risks described above, of various domestic or 
international military or terrorist activities or conflicts; and

other risk factors relating to the banking, insurance and investments industry or Peoples as detailed from 
time to time in Peoples’ reports filed with the SEC, including those risk factors included in the disclosure 
under "ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS" of this Form 10-K.

All forward-looking statements speak only as of the filing date of this Form 10-K and are expressly qualified in their 
entirety by the cautionary statements.  Although management believes the expectations in these forward-looking statements 
are based on reasonable assumptions within the bounds of management’s knowledge of Peoples’ business and operations, it is 
possible that actual results may differ materially from these projections.  Additionally, Peoples undertakes no obligation to 
update these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the filing date of this Form 10-K or to reflect 
the occurrence of unanticipated events except as may be required by applicable legal requirements.  Copies of documents 
filed with the SEC are available free of charge at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov and/or from Peoples' website – 
www.peoplesbancorp.com under the "Investor Relations" section.

The following discussion and analysis of Peoples' Consolidated Financial Statements is presented to provide insight into 
management's assessment of the financial results and condition for the periods presented.  This discussion and analysis should 
be read in conjunction with the audited Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes thereto, as well as the ratios and statistics, 
contained elsewhere in this Form 10-K.

Summary of Significant Transactions and Events

The following is a summary of transactions or events that have impacted or are expected by management to impact 

Peoples’ results of operations or financial condition: 

At the close of business on October 24, 2014, Peoples completed the acquisition of North Akron and its full service 
offices in Akron, Cuyahoga Falls, Munroe and Norton, Ohio.  Under the terms of the merger agreement, Peoples 
paid $7,655 of consideration per share of North Akron common stock, or $20.1 million, of which 80% was paid in 
Peoples' common shares and the remaining 20% in cash.  The acquisition added $111.5 million of loans and $108.1 
million of deposits at the acquisition date, after purchase accounting adjustments.

On August 7, 2014, Peoples announced the completion of the sale of 1,847,826 common shares at $23.00 per share 
to institutional investors through a private placement (the "Private Equity Issuance").  Peoples received net proceeds 
of $40.2 million from the sale, and intends to use the proceeds, in part, to fund the cash consideration for the NB&T 
acquisition.

On August 4, 2014, Peoples entered into the NB&T Agreement.  The NB&T Agreement calls for NB&T to merge 
into Peoples and for NB&T's wholly-owned subsidiary, The National Bank and Trust Company, which operates 22 
full-service branches in southwest Ohio, to merge into Peoples Bank.  Under the terms of the NB&T Agreement, 
shareholders of NB&T will receive 0.9319 of Peoples' common shares and $7.75 in cash for each share of NB&T.  
The NB&T transaction is expected to be completed during the first quarter of 2015, pending adoption of the NB&T 
Agreement by the shareholders of both NB&T and Peoples, the satisfaction of various closing conditions, including 

29

the accuracy of the representations and warranties of each party (subject to certain exceptions), the performance in 
all material respects by each party of its obligations under the NB&T Agreement, and other conditions customary for 
transactions of this type.

At the close of business on August 22, 2014, Peoples completed the acquisition of Ohio Heritage and its six full 
service offices in Coshocton, Newark, Heath, Mount Vernon and New Philadelphia, Ohio.  Under the terms of the 
merger agreement, Peoples paid $110.00 of consideration per share of Ohio Heritage common stock, or $37.7 
million, of which 85% was paid in Peoples' common shares and the remaining 15% in cash.  The acquisition added 
$175.8 million of loans and $174.9 million of deposits at the acquisition date, after purchase accounting 
adjustments.

At the close of business on May 30, 2014, Peoples completed the acquisition of Midwest and its full service offices 
in Wellston and Jackson, Ohio.  Under the terms of the merger agreement, Peoples paid $65.50 of consideration per 
share of Midwest common stock, or $12.6 million, of which 50% was paid in cash and the remaining 50% in 
Peoples' common shares.  The acquisition added $58.7 million of loans and $77.9 million of deposits at the 
acquisition date, after purchase accounting adjustments.

In 2014, Peoples incurred $5.1 million of acquisition-related expenses, compared to $1.5 million in 2013 and 
$641,000 in 2012, which were primarily fees for legal costs, other professional services, deconversion costs and 
write-offs associated with assets acquired. 

During 2013, Peoples took steps to reduce its investment in bank-owned life insurance ("BOLI") contracts and 
redeploy the funds in order to enhance long-term shareholder return.  Peoples received proceeds of $43.1 million 
during 2013 as a result of the liquidation of BOLI contracts, while the remaining cash surrender value of 
approximately $6.6 million was recorded as a receivable at December 31, 2013.  Peoples received the remaining 
cash surrender value in the first quarter of 2014, in accordance with the terms of the BOLI policies (collectively, the 
"BOLI Surrender").  The BOLI Surrender caused Peoples to incur a $2.2 million federal income tax liability in 2013 
for the gain associated with the policies surrendered.

Peoples periodically has taken actions to reduce interest rate exposure within the investment portfolio and the entire 
balance sheet, which have included the sale of low-yielding investment securities and repayment of high-cost 
borrowings. These actions included the sale of $68.8 million of investment securities, primarily low or volatile 
yielding residential mortgage-backed securities, during the first quarter of 2013.  Some of the proceeds from these 
investment sales were reinvested in securities during the first quarter with the remaining reinvested early in the 
second quarter of 2013.

As described in Note 11 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, Peoples incurred settlement charges 
of $1.4 million during 2014 due to the aggregate amount of lump-sum distributions to participants in Peoples' 
defined benefit pension plan exceeding the threshold for recognizing such charges during the period.  Settlement 
charges of $270,000 and $835,000 were recognized during 2013 and 2012, respectively.

On September 17, 2012, Peoples introduced its new brand as part of a company-wide brand revitalization.  The 
brand is Peoples' promise, which is a guarantee of satisfaction and quality.  Peoples incurred costs throughout 2013 
associated with the brand revitalization, including marketing due to advertisements, and depreciation expense for 
new assets related to the $5 million branch renovation project.

Peoples' net interest income and net interest margin are impacted by changes in market interest rates based upon 
actions taken by the Federal Reserve Board either directly or through its Open Market Committee.  These actions 
include changing the target Federal Funds Rate (the interest rate at which banks lend money to each other), Discount 
Rate (the interest rate charged to banks for money borrowed from the Federal Reserve Bank) and longer-term 
market interest rates (primarily U.S. Treasury securities).  Longer-term market interest rates also are affected by the 
demand for U.S. Treasury securities.  The resulting changes in the yield curve slope have a direct impact on 
reinvestment rates for Peoples' earning assets.

The Federal Reserve Board has maintained its target Federal Funds Rate at a historically low level of 0% to 0.25% 
since December 2008 and has maintained the Discount Rate at 0.75% since December 2010.  The Federal Reserve 
Board has indicated the possibility that these short-term rates could start to be raised as early as 2015.

From late 2008 until year-end 2014, the Federal Reserve Board took various actions to lower longer-term market 
interest rates as a means of stimulating the economy – a policy commonly referred to as “quantitative easing”.  
These actions included the buying and selling of mortgage-backed and other debt securities through its open market 
operations.  In December 2013, the Federal Reserve Board announced plans to taper its quantitative easing efforts.  

30

As a result, the slope of the U.S. Treasury yield curve has fluctuated significantly. Substantial flattening occurred in 
late 2008, in mid-2010 and early third quarter of 2011 through 2012, while moderate steepening occurred in the 
second half of 2009, late 2010 and mid-2013.  The curve has remained relatively steep since mid-2013, primarily as 
a reaction to the Federal Reserve Board's announcement of a reduction in monthly asset purchases and generally 
improving economic conditions.  The curve flattened gradually throughout 2014, primarily in response to the 
slowing global economy, geopolitical uncertainty and lower yields on sovereign debt throughout the world. 

The impact of these transactions, where material, is discussed in the applicable sections of this Management’s Discussion 

and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

Critical Accounting Policies

The accounting and reporting policies of Peoples conform to US GAAP and to general practices within the financial 

services industry.  A summary of significant accounting policies is contained in Note 1 of the Notes to the Consolidated 
Financial Statements.  While all of these policies are important to understanding the Consolidated Financial Statements, 
certain accounting policies require management to exercise judgment and make estimates or assumptions that affect the 
amounts reported in the Consolidated Financial Statements and accompanying Notes.  These estimates and assumptions are 
based on information available as of the date of the Consolidated Financial Statements; accordingly, as this information 
changes, the Consolidated Financial Statements could reflect different estimates or assumptions.  

Management has identified the accounting policies described below as those that, due to the judgments, estimates and 

assumptions inherent in the policies, are critical to an understanding of Peoples' Consolidated Financial Statements and 
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.    

Income Recognition

Interest income on loans and investment securities is recognized by methods that result in level rates of return on 

principal amounts outstanding, including yield adjustments resulting from the amortization of loan costs and premiums 
on investment securities and accretion of loan fees and discounts on investment securities.  Since mortgage-backed 
securities comprise a sizable portion of Peoples' investment portfolio, a significant increase in principal payments on 
those securities could impact interest income due to the corresponding acceleration of premium amortization or discount 
accretion.

Peoples discontinues the accrual of interest on a loan when conditions cause management to believe collection of all 

or any portion of the loan's contractual interest is doubtful.  Such conditions may include the borrower being 90 days or 
more past due on any contractual payments or current information regarding the borrower's financial condition and 
repayment ability.  All unpaid accrued interest deemed uncollectable is reversed, which would reduce Peoples' net 
interest income.  Interest received on nonaccrual loans is included in income only if principal recovery is reasonably 
assured.  

Allowance for Loan Losses

In general, determining the amount of the allowance for loan losses requires significant judgment and the use of 
estimates by management.  Peoples maintains an allowance for loan losses based on a quarterly analysis of the loan 
portfolio and estimation of the losses that are probable of occurrence within the loan portfolio.  This formal analysis 
determines an appropriate level and allocation of the allowance for loan losses among loan types and the resulting 
recovery of or provision for loan losses by considering factors affecting losses, including specific losses, levels and 
trends in impaired and nonperforming loans; historical loan loss experience; current national and local economic 
conditions; volume; growth and composition of the portfolio, regulatory guidance and other relevant factors.  
Management continually monitors the loan portfolio through Peoples Bank's Credit Administration Department and Loan 
Loss Committee to evaluate the appropriateness of the allowance.  The recovery or provision could increase or decrease 
each quarter based upon the results of management's formal analysis. 

The amount of the allowance for loan losses for the various loan types represents management's estimate of probable 

losses from existing loans.  Management evaluates lending relationships deemed to be impaired on an individual basis 
and makes specific allocations of the allowance for loan losses for each relationship based on discounted cash flows 
using the loan's initial effective interest rate or the fair value of the collateral for certain collateral dependent loans.  For 
all other loans, management evaluates pools of homogeneous loans (such as residential mortgage loans, and direct and 
indirect consumer loans) and makes general allocations for each loan pool based upon historical loss experience.  While 
allocations are made to specific loans and pools of loans, the allowance is available for all loan losses.

The evaluation of individual impaired loans requires management to make estimates of the amounts and timing of 

future cash flows on impaired loans, which consist primarily of loans placed on nonaccrual status, restructured or 

31

internally classified as substandard or doubtful.  These reviews are based upon specific quantitative and qualitative 
criteria, including the size of the loan, the loan cash flow characteristics, loan quality ratings, value of collateral, 
repayment ability of borrowers, and historical experience factors.  Allowances for homogeneous loans are evaluated 
based upon historical loss experience, adjusted for qualitative risk factors, such as trends in losses and delinquencies, 
growth of loans in particular markets, and known changes in economic conditions in each lending market.  As part of the 
process of identifying the pools of homogenous loans, management takes into account any concentrations of risk within 
any portfolio segment, including any significant industrial concentrations.  Consistent with the evaluation of allowances 
for homogenous loans, the allowance relating to the Overdraft Privilege program is based upon management's monthly 
analysis of accounts in the program.  This analysis considers factors that could affect losses on existing accounts, 
including historical loss experience and length of overdraft.

There can be no assurance the allowance for loan losses will be adequate to cover all losses, but management 
believes the allowance for loan losses at December 31, 2014 was adequate to provide for probable losses from existing 
loans based on information currently available.  While management uses available information to estimate losses, the 
ultimate collectability of a substantial portion of the loan portfolio, and the need for future additions to the allowance, 
will be based on changes in economic conditions and other relevant factors.  As such, adverse changes in economic 
activity could reduce currently estimated cash flows for both commercial and individual borrowers, which would likely 
cause Peoples to experience increases in problem assets, delinquencies and losses on loans in the future.

Investment Securities

Peoples' investment portfolio accounted for 27.8% of total assets at December 31, 2014, of which approximately 
89% of the securities were classified as available-for-sale.  Correspondingly, Peoples carries these securities at fair value 
on its Consolidated Balance Sheets, with any unrealized gain or loss recorded in stockholders' equity as a component of 
accumulated other comprehensive income or loss.  As a result, both the investment and equity sections of Peoples' 
Consolidated Balance Sheet are sensitive to changes in the overall market value of the investment portfolio, due to 
changes in market interest rates, investor confidence and other factors affecting market values.

While temporary changes in the fair value of available-for-sale securities are not recognized in earnings, Peoples is 
required to evaluate all investment securities with an unrealized loss on a quarterly basis to identify potential other-than-
temporary impairment (“OTTI”) losses.  This analysis requires management to consider various factors that involve 
judgment and estimation, including the duration and magnitude of the decline in value, the financial condition of the 
issuer or pool of issuers, and the structure of the security.  

Under current US GAAP, an OTTI loss is recognized in earnings only when (1) Peoples intends to sell the debt 

security; (2) it is more likely than not that Peoples will be required to sell the debt security before recovery of its 
amortized cost basis; or (3) Peoples does not expect to recover the entire amortized cost basis of the debt security.  In 
situations where Peoples intends to sell, or when it is more likely than not that Peoples will be required to sell the debt 
security, the entire OTTI loss must be recognized in earnings.  In all other situations, only the portion of the OTTI losses 
representing the credit loss must be recognized in earnings, with the remaining portion being recognized in stockholders' 
equity as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income or loss, net of deferred taxes.

Peoples has not recognized an impairment loss in 2014, 2013 or 2012.  Management performed its quarterly analysis 

of the investment securities with an unrealized loss at December 31, 2014, and concluded no individual securities were 
other-than-temporarily impaired.

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

During 2014 and in prior years, Peoples recorded goodwill and other intangible assets as a result of acquisitions 
accounted for under the purchase method of accounting.  Under the purchase method, Peoples is required to allocate the 
cost of an acquired company to the assets acquired, including identified intangible assets, and liabilities assumed based 
on their estimated fair values at the date of acquisition.  Goodwill represents the excess cost over the fair value of net 
assets acquired and is not amortized but is tested for impairment when indicators of impairment exist, or at least 
annually.  Peoples' other intangible assets consist of customer relationship intangible assets, including core deposit 
intangibles, representing the present value of future net income to be earned from acquired customer relationships with 
definite useful lives, which are required to be amortized over their estimated useful lives.  

The value of recorded goodwill is supported ultimately by revenue that is driven by the volume of business 
transacted and Peoples' ability to provide quality, cost-effective services in a competitive market place.  A decline in 
earnings as a result of a lack of growth or the inability to deliver cost-effective services over sustained periods can lead 
to impairment of goodwill that could adversely impact earnings in future periods.  Potential goodwill impairment exists 

32

when the fair value of the reporting unit (as defined by US GAAP) is less than its carrying value.  An impairment loss is 
recognized in earnings only when the carrying amount of goodwill is less than its implied fair value.

Peoples performs its required annual impairment test as of June 30 each year.  The goodwill impairment test consists 

of a two step process that includes (1) determining if potential goodwill impairment exists and (2) measuring the 
impairment loss, if any.  At June 30, 2014, management's analysis concluded that the estimated fair value of Peoples' 
single reporting unit exceeded its carrying value.  The analysis also included an assessment of events and circumstances 
considering several key factors such as economic and local market conditions, overall financial performance, changes in 
management or key personnel, and share price.

Peoples is required to perform interim tests for goodwill impairment in subsequent quarters if events occur or 
circumstances change that indicate potential goodwill impairment exists, such as adverse changes to Peoples' business or 
a significant decline in Peoples' market capitalization.  At December 31, 2014, Peoples' market capitalization was more 
than its book value, which management considered to be evidence that goodwill was not impaired.

Peoples records servicing rights (“SRs”) in connection with its mortgage banking and small business lending 

activities, which are intangible assets representing the right to service loans sold to third-party investors.  These 
intangible assets are recorded initially at fair value and subsequently amortized over the estimated life of the loans sold.  
SRs are stratified based on their predominant risk characteristics and assessed for impairment at the strata level at each 
reporting date based on their fair value.  At December 31, 2014, management concluded no portion of the recorded SRs 
was impaired since the fair value equaled or exceeded the carrying value.  However, future events, such as a significant 
increase in prepayment speeds, could result in a fair value that is less than the carrying amount, which would require the 
recognition of an impairment loss in earnings.

Income Taxes

Income taxes are recorded based on the liability method of accounting, which includes the recognition of deferred 
tax assets and liabilities for the temporary differences between carrying amounts and tax bases of assets and liabilities, 
computed using enacted tax rates.  In general, Peoples records deferred tax assets when the event giving rise to the tax 
benefit has been recognized in the Consolidated Financial Statements.  

A valuation allowance is recognized to reduce any deferred tax asset that, based upon available information, it is 

more-likely-than-not all, or any portion, of the deferred tax asset will not be realized.  Assessing the need for, and 
amount of, a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets requires significant judgment and analysis of evidence regarding 
realization of the deferred tax assets.  In most cases, the realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon Peoples 
generating a sufficient level of taxable income in future periods, which can be difficult to predict.  Peoples' largest 
deferred tax assets involve differences related to Peoples' allowance for loan losses and accrued employee benefits.  
Given the nature of Peoples' deferred tax assets, management determined no valuation allowances were needed at either 
December 31, 2014 or 2013.

The calculation of tax liabilities is complex and requires the use of estimates and judgment since it involves the 
application of complex tax laws that are subject to different interpretations by Peoples and the various tax authorities.  
These interpretations are subject to challenge by the tax authorities upon audit or to reinterpretation based on 
management's ongoing assessment of facts and evolving case law.

From time-to-time and in the ordinary course of business, Peoples is involved in inquiries and reviews by tax 
authorities that normally require management to provide supplemental information to support certain tax positions taken 
by Peoples in its tax returns.  Uncertain tax positions are initially recognized in the Consolidated Financial Statements 
when it is more likely than not the position will be sustained upon examination by the tax authorities.  Such tax positions 
are initially and subsequently measured as the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being 
realized upon ultimate settlement with the tax authority assuming full knowledge of the position and all relevant facts. 
The amount of unrecognized tax benefits was immaterial at both December 31, 2014 and 2013.

 Management believes it has taken appropriate positions on its tax returns, although the ultimate outcome of any tax 

review cannot be predicted with certainty.  Consequently, no assurance can be given that the final outcome of these 
matters will not be different than what is reflected in the current and historical financial statements.

Fair Value Measurements

As a financial services company, the carrying value of certain financial assets and liabilities is impacted by the 
application of fair value measurements, either directly or indirectly.  In certain cases, an asset or liability is measured and 
reported at fair value on a recurring basis, such as available-for-sale investment securities.  In other cases, management must 
rely on estimates or judgments to determine if an asset or liability not measured at fair value warrants an impairment write-

33

down or whether a valuation reserve should be established.  Given the inherent volatility, the use of fair value measurements 
may have a significant impact on the carrying value of assets or liabilities, or result in material changes to the consolidated 
financial statements, from period to period.

Detailed information regarding fair value measurements can be found in Note 2 of the Notes to the Consolidated 

Financial Statements.  The following is a summary of those assets and liabilities that may be affected by fair value 
measurements, as well as a brief description of the current accounting practices and valuation methodologies employed by 
Peoples:    

Available-for-Sale Investment Securities

Investment securities classified as available-for-sale are measured and reported at fair value on a recurring basis.  
For most securities, the fair value is based upon quoted market prices (Level 1) or determined by pricing models that 
consider observable market data (Level 2).  For structured investment securities, the fair value often must be based upon 
unobservable market data, such as non-binding broker quotes and discounted cash flow analysis or similar models, due 
to the absence of an active market for these securities (Level 3).  As a result, management's determination of fair value 
for these securities is highly dependent on subjective or complex judgments, estimates and assumptions, which could 
change materially between periods.  Management occasionally uses information from independent third-party 
consultants in its determination of the fair value of more complex structured investment securities.  At December 31, 
2014, all of Peoples' available-for-sale investment securities were measured using observable market data.

At December 31, 2014, the majority of the investment securities with Level 2 fair values were determined using 

information provided by third-party pricing services.  Management reviews the valuation methodology and quality 
controls utilized by the pricing services in management's overall assessment of the reasonableness of the fair values 
provided.  To the extent available, management utilizes an independent third-party pricing source to assist in its 
assessment of the values provided by its primary pricing services.  Management reviews the fair values provided by 
these third parties on a monthly basis and challenges prices when it believes a discrepancy in pricing exists.  Based on 
Peoples' past experience, these challenges more-often-than-not result in the third party adjusting its valuation of the 
security.

Impaired loans  

For loans considered impaired, the amount of impairment loss recognized is determined based on a discounted cash 
flow analysis or the fair value of the underlying collateral if repayment is expected solely from the sale of the collateral.  
Management typically relies on the fair value of the underlying collateral due to the significant uncertainty surrounding 
the borrower's ability to make future payments.  The vast majority of the collateral securing impaired loans is real estate, 
although the collateral may also include accounts receivable and equipment, inventory or similar personal property.  The 
fair value of the collateral used by management represents the estimated proceeds to be received from the sale of the 
collateral, less costs incurred during the sale, based upon observable market data or market value data provided by 
independent, licensed or certified appraisers. 

Goodwill

The process of evaluating goodwill for impairment involves highly subjective or complex judgments, estimates and 
assumptions regarding the fair value of Peoples' reporting unit and, in some cases, goodwill itself.  As a result, changes 
to these judgments, estimates and assumptions in future periods could result in materially different results.

Peoples currently possesses a single reporting unit for goodwill impairment testing.  While quoted market prices 
exist for Peoples' common shares since they are publicly traded, these market prices do not necessarily reflect the value 
associated with gaining control of an entity.  Thus, management takes into account all appropriate fair value 
measurements in determining the estimated fair value of the reporting unit. 

The measurement of any actual impairment loss requires management to calculate the implied fair value of goodwill 

by deducting the fair value of all tangible and separately identifiable intangible net assets (including unrecognized 
intangible assets) from the fair value of the reporting unit.  The fair value of net tangible assets is calculated using the 
methodologies described in Note 2 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.  Customer relationship 
intangibles are the only separately identifiable intangible assets included in the calculation of the implied fair value of 
goodwill.  The amount of these intangibles represents the present value of the future earnings stream attributable to the 
deposit relationships.

Servicing Rights  

SRs are carried at the lower of amortized cost or market value, and, therefore, can be subject to fair value 
measurements on a nonrecurring basis.  SRs do not trade in an active market with readily observable prices.  Thus, 
management determines fair value based upon a valuation model that calculates the present value of estimated future net 

34

servicing income provided by an independent third-party consultant.  This valuation model is affected by various input 
factors, such as servicing costs, expected prepayment speeds and discount rates, which are subject to change between 
reporting periods.  As a result, significant changes to these factors could result in a material change to the calculated fair 
value of SRs.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Net income for the year ended December 31, 2014 was $16.7 million, compared to $17.6 million in 2013 and $20.4 

million in 2012, representing earnings per diluted common share of $1.35, $1.63 and $1.92, respectively.  The decrease in 
earnings during 2014 was primarily driven by acquisition-related costs of $5.1 million and pension settlement charges of $1.4 
million.  Earnings in 2013 were impacted by additional operating costs associated with various strategic investments to grow 
revenue and a lower recovery of loan losses.

In 2014, Peoples had a provision for loan losses of $0.3 million due to its checking account overdrafts program, while 
asset quality trends remained favorable and recoveries exceeded charge-offs.  Peoples recorded recoveries of loan losses of 
$4.4 million for 2013 and $4.7 million for 2012.  Peoples recorded net recoveries of $0.5 million for 2014, compared to net 
recoveries of $3.7 million for 2013 and net charge-offs of $1.2 million for 2012.  These recoveries or provisions represented 
amounts needed, in management's opinion, to maintain the appropriateness of the allowance for loan losses.

Net interest income grew 25% to $69.5 million in 2014 compared to $55.4 million in 2013, mostly due to higher loan 
balances in connection with recent acquisitions and organic loan growth.  Net interest margin was 3.45% in 2014, higher than 
the 3.23% in 2013 and 3.36% in 2012.  The increase in 2014 was due to accretion income from acquisitions completed, loan 
growth, change in asset mix and a reduction in funding costs.  Accretion income from acquisitions added approximately 12 
basis points to net interest margin in 2014 compared to 4 basis points in 2013.  The decrease in net interest margin during 
2013 was largely a result of the low interest rate environment, which put downward pressure on asset yields.

Total non-interest income, which excludes gains and losses on investment securities, asset disposals and other 

transactions, increased 8% in 2014 compared to 2013.  During 2014, insurance income grew 11%, or $1.4 million, trust and 
investment income increased 8%, or $0.6 million, and electronic banking income was up 8%, or $0.5 million.  The key driver 
of the increase in insurance income was additional performance-based commissions received due to the improved quality of 
the book of business and increased production with the insurance carriers.  Mortgage banking income has slowed as 
refinancing activity has declined, leading to a reduction of $0.5 million in 2014 and $1.1 million in 2013.  Total non-interest 
income was up 6% in 2013 compared to 2012, as insurance income and trust and investment income grew 24% and 16%, 
respectively.  

Total other expense increased 25%, or $16.7 million, for the year ended December 31, 2014, as a result of acquisition-

related costs, higher salaries and employee benefits due to additional employees and increased electronic banking expense.   
Acquisition-related expenses included in other expenses during 2014 were $4.8 million compared to $1.4 million in 2013 and 
$569,000 in 2012.  Also during 2014, the Board of Directors granted a one-time stock award of unrestricted common shares 
to all full-time and part-time employees who did not already participate in the equity plans, which resulted in expense of 
$298,000.  In 2013, salaries and employee benefits increased due to a higher number of employees primarily because of 
acquisitions.

At December 31, 2014, total assets were up 25% to $2.57 billion versus $2.06 billion at year-end 2013, with the 
acquisitions completed during 2014 adding approximately $464 million, and the remaining increase primarily due to loan 
growth.  Portfolio loan balances grew $424.7 million during 2014, due to acquired loans and 12% organic growth.  The 
allowance for loan losses increased $0.8 million to $17.9 million, or 1.48% of originated loans, net of deferred fees and costs, 
compared to $17.1 million and 1.58% at December 31, 2013.  Total investment securities grew to $713.7 million, or 27.8% of 
total assets at December 31, 2014, compared to $680.5 million, or 33.0% of total assets at the prior year-end.

Total liabilities were $2.23 billion at December 31, 2014, up $390.1 million since December 31, 2013.  Contributing to 

this increase were acquired interest-bearing deposits of approximately $326.3 million and organic non-interest-bearing 
deposit growth of $77.8 million.  Non-interest-bearing deposits comprised 23.0% of total retail deposits at December 31, 
2014, versus 26.8% at year-end 2013.  At December 31, 2014, total borrowed funds were $267.4 million, up $31.9 million 
compared to the prior year-end, as Peoples acquired and restructured long-term advances from the Ohio Heritage transaction.

At December 31, 2014, total stockholders' equity was $340.1 million, up $118.6 million from December 31, 2013.  
Stockholders' equity represented common shares issued in connection with 2014 acquisitions was $54.4 million, and the 
Private Equity Issuance of common shares added $40.2 million.  Peoples' regulatory capital ratios remained significantly 
higher than "well capitalized" minimums.  Peoples' Tier 1 Common Capital ratio increased to 14.32% at December 31, 2014, 

35

versus 12.42% at December 31, 2013, while the Total Capital ratio was 15.48% versus 13.78% at December 31, 2013.  In 
addition, Peoples' tangible common equity to tangible assets ratio was 9.39% and tangible book value per share was $15.57 at 
December 31, 2014, versus 7.26% and $13.57 at December 31, 2013, respectively.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Interest Income and Expense

Peoples earns interest income on loans and investments and incurs interest expense on interest-bearing deposits and 
borrowed funds.  Net interest income, the amount by which interest income exceeds interest expense, remains Peoples' largest 
source of revenue.  The amount of net interest income earned by Peoples is affected by various factors, including changes in 
market interest rates due to the Federal Reserve Board's monetary policy, the level and degree of pricing competition for both 
loans and deposits in Peoples' markets, and the amount and composition of Peoples' earning assets and interest-bearing 
liabilities.

Peoples monitors net interest income performance and manages its balance sheet composition through regular ALCO 

meetings.  The asset-liability management process employed by the ALCO is intended to mitigate the impact of future 
interest rate changes on Peoples' net interest income and earnings.  However, the frequency and/or magnitude of changes in 
market interest rates are difficult to predict, and may have a greater impact on net interest income than adjustments 
management is able to make.

36

The following table details Peoples’ average balance sheets for the years ended December 31:

2014

2013

2012

(Dollars in thousands)
Short-term investments
Other long-term investments
Investment Securities (1):
Taxable
Nontaxable (2)

Total investment securities

Loans (3):
Commercial real estate, construction
Commercial real estate, other
Commercial and industrial
Residential real estate (4)
Home equity lines of credit
Consumer

Total loans

Less: Allowance for loan losses

Net loans

Total earning assets

Intangible assets
Other assets
    Total assets
Deposits:
Savings accounts

Government deposit accounts

Interest-bearing demand accounts
Money market accounts

Brokered deposits
Retail certificates of deposit

Total interest-bearing deposits

Borrowed Funds:
Short-term FHLB advances
Retail repurchase agreements
Total short-term borrowings

Long-term FHLB advances

Wholesale repurchase agreements
Other borrowings

Total long-term borrowings
Total borrowed funds

Total interest-bearing liabilities
Non-interest-bearing deposits
Other liabilities

Total liabilities
Total stockholders’ equity

Average
Balance

Income/
Expense

Average
Balance

Income/
Expense

Average
Balance

Income/
Expense

Yield/
Cost

Yield/
Cost
1 0.01 % $
8 0.42 %

16,154 $
743

Yield/
Cost
94 0.59 % $
2 0.27 %

9,705 $
—

20 0.21 %
— — %

$

15,394 $
1,913

630,057
59,759
689,816

17,024 2.70 %
2,785 4.66 %
19,809 2.87 %

646,884
50,487
697,371

17,026 2.63 %
2,461 4.87 %
19,487 2.79 %

645,249
40,190
685,439

19,961 3.09 %
2,206 5.49 %
22,167 3.23 %

44,205
494,440
250,248
345,398
66,826
163,691
1,364,808
(17,362)

1,347,446
2,054,569
87,821
98,144
$2,240,534

35,494
1,808 4.09 %
391,965
22,724 4.60 %
190,414
11,079 4.43 %
253,955
16,051 4.65 %
53,350
2,398 3.59 %
121,193
7,658 4.68 %
61,718 4.52 % 1,046,371
(17,935)

61,718 4.58 % 1,028,436
81,536 3.97 % 1,742,704
72,420
117,243
$1,932,367

1,569 4.36 %
18,882 4.75 %
7,960 4.12 %
12,089 4.76 %
2,045 3.83 %
6,143 5.07 %
48,688 4.62 %

42,879
392,436
160,085
227,002
48,721
96,043
967,166
(21,473)

48,688 4.70 %
945,693
68,271 3.90 % 1,640,837
65,881
134,571
$1,841,289

$ 247,419 $
165,622

135 0.05 % $ 200,190 $
470 0.28 %

146,955

107 0.05 % $ 162,055 $
642 0.44 %

151,877

148,687

293,214
42,598

383,574
1,281,114

124 0.08 %

472 0.16 %
1,568 3.68 %

125,984

259,226
51,287

3,338 0.87 %
358,918
6,107 0.48 % 1,142,560

101 0.08 %

113,022

255,345

379 0.15 %
1,871 3.65 %

56,451
3,952 1.10 %
404,872
7,052 0.62 % 1,143,622

36,678
59,362
96,040
80,837

40,000
17,334

47 0.13 %
99 0.17 %
146 0.15 %
2,299 2.84 %

1,471 3.68 %
672 3.88 %

44,127
37,167
81,294
64,004

40,000
22,096

55 0.12 %
59 0.16 %
114 0.14 %
2,167 3.39 %

1,471 3.68 %
882 3.94 %

13,240
37,401
50,641
68,041

44,208
22,729

2,005 4.60 %
19,586 4.91 %
6,913 4.25 %
12,136 5.35 %
2,015 4.14 %
5,715 5.95 %
48,370 4.95 %

48,370 5.07 %
70,557 4.27 %

90 0.06 %
937 0.62 %

117 0.10 %

423 0.17 %

1,996 3.54 %
5,496 1.36 %
9,059 0.79 %

17 0.12 %
57 0.15 %
74 0.14 %
2,305 3.39 %

1,610 3.58 %
1,947 8.62 %

138,171
234,211
1,515,325

433,798  
20,722
1,969,845  
270,689

126,100
4,442 3.21 %
4,588 1.96 %
207,394
10,695 0.71 % 1,349,954

134,978
4,520 3.57 %
4,634 2.23 %
185,619
11,686 0.86 % 1,329,241

5,862 4.27 %
5,936 3.17 %
14,995 1.13 %

335,637  
24,865
1,710,456  
221,911

$1,932,367

273,893  
24,037
1,627,171  
214,118

$1,841,289

Total liabilities and stockholders’
equity

$2,240,534

Interest rate spread
Net interest margin

$ 70,841 3.26 %  
3.45%  

$ 56,585 3.04 %  

3.23%

$ 55,562 3.14 %
3.36%

(1)  Average balances are based on carrying value.

37

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
(2)  Interest income and yields are presented on a fully tax-equivalent basis using a 35% federal statutory tax rate.
(3)  Average balances include nonaccrual and impaired loans.  Interest income includes interest earned on nonaccrual loans prior to the 

loans being placed on nonaccrual status.  Loan fees included in interest income were immaterial for all periods presented.

(4)  Loans held for sale are included in the average loan balance listed.  Related interest income on loans originated for sale prior to the loan 

being sold is included in loan interest income.

The following table provides an analysis of the changes in fully tax-equivalent (“FTE”) net interest income:

(Dollars in thousands)
Increase (decrease) in:
INTEREST INCOME:

Short-term investments
Other long-term investments
Investment Securities: (2)
Taxable

Nontaxable

Total investment income

Loans:

Commercial real estate, construction

Commercial real estate, other

Commercial and industrial

Residential real estate

Home equity lines of credit

Consumer

Total loan income

Total interest income

INTEREST EXPENSE:

Deposits:

Savings accounts

Government deposit accounts

Interest-bearing demand accounts

Money market accounts

Brokered certificates of deposit

Retail certificates of deposit

Total deposit cost
Borrowed funds:

Short-term borrowings

Long-term borrowings

Total borrowed funds cost

Total interest expense

Changes from 2013 to 2014
Volume
Rate

Total (1)

Changes from 2012 to 2013
Volume
Rate

Total (1)

$

(88) $
2

(5) $
4

(93) $
6

54 $
—

20 $
2

74
2

447

(112)

335

(105)

(640)

596

(293)

(138)

(508)

(449)

436

(13)

344

4,482

2,523

4,255

491

2,023

(2)
324

322

239

3,842

3,119

3,962

353

1,515

(1,088)

(839)

14,118

14,104

13,030

13,265

2

(246)

4

40

17

(871)

(1,054)

—

(405)

(405)

(1,459)

26

74

19

53

(320)

257

109

32

327

359

468

28
(172)
23

93
(303)
(614)

(945)

32
(78)

(46)

(2,985)
(266)

(3,251)

(101)
(679)
(208)
(1,411)
(155)
(926)

(3,480)

(6,677)

(4)
(266)
(28)
(50)
62
(964)

(1,250)

3
(978)

(975)

50

521

571

(335)
(25)
1,255

1,364

185

1,354

3,798

4,391

21
(29)
12

6
(187)
(580)

(757)

37
(364)

(327)

(2,935)
255

(2,680)

(436)
(704)
1,047
(47)
30

428

318

(2,286)

17
(295)
(16)
(44)
(125)
(1,544)

(2,007)

40
(1,342)

(1,302)

(3,309)

(991)

(2,225)

(1,084)

Net interest income

$

620 $

13,636 $

14,256

$

(4,452) $

5,475 $

1,023

(1)  The change in interest due to both rate and volume has been allocated to rate and volume changes in proportion to the

relationship of the dollar amounts of the changes in each.

(2)  Presented on a fully tax-equivalent basis.

As part of the analysis of net interest income, management converts tax-exempt income earned on obligations of states 

and political subdivisions to the pre-tax equivalent of taxable income using an effective tax rate of 35%.  Management 
believes the resulting FTE net interest income allows for a more meaningful comparison of tax-exempt income and yields to 
their taxable equivalents.  Net interest margin, which is calculated by dividing FTE net interest income by average interest-

38

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
earning assets, serves as an important measurement of the net revenue stream generated by the volume, mix and pricing of 
earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities.

The following table details the calculation of FTE net interest income for the years ended December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
Net interest income, as reported

Taxable equivalent adjustments

Fully tax-equivalent net interest income

2014

2013

2012

$

$

69,506 $

55,385 $

1,335
70,841 $

1,200
56,585 $

54,475

1,087
55,562

During 2014, Peoples recognized normal accretion income, net of amortization expense, from acquisitions of $2.6 
million during 2014, which added approximately 12 basis points to net interest margin, compared to $0.7 million and 4 basis 
points, respectively, in 2013.  Also during 2014, additional interest income from prepayment fees and interest recovered on 
nonaccrual loans was $240,000 compared to $976,000 in 2013 and $467,000 in 2012.  The primary driver of the increase in 
net interest income during 2014 was a result of higher loan balances in connection with organic growth and acquired loans.

The yield on investment securities stabilized in 2014 as long-term interest rates remained relatively steady for the 
majority of the year.  As a result, principal prepayments from mortgage-backed securities stabilized compared to prior years, 
resulting in less yield compression and volatility.  However, in 2013, investments yields had declined as the impact of lower 
reinvestment rates was magnified by a higher level of principal prepayments within mortgage-backed securities.  During 
2014, the average monthly principal cash flow received by Peoples from its investment portfolio was approximately $6.0 
million, compared to a monthly average of approximately $8.0 million in 2013 and $11.9 million in 2012.

Funding costs declined during 2014 and 2013 as Peoples executed its strategy of replacing higher-cost funding with low-
cost deposits.  Compared to 2013, funding costs during 2014 have decreased 14 basis points and increases in balances of low-
cost deposits have provided funding for loan growth.  Funding costs decreased during 2012 due to the extinguishment of 
$35.0 million of higher-cost wholesale borrowings in the first quarter of 2012 and the maturity of special higher-cost retail 
CDs.  Peoples also redeemed trust preferred securities during 2012 and realized an annual interest expense savings of $1.1 
million in 2013. 

Detailed information regarding changes in the Consolidated Balance Sheets can be found under appropriate captions of 
the “FINANCIAL CONDITION” section of this discussion.  Additional information regarding Peoples' interest rate risk and 
the potential impact of interest rate changes on Peoples' results of operations and financial condition can be found later in this 
discussion under the caption “Interest Rate Sensitivity and Liquidity”.

Provision for (Recovery of) Loan Losses

The following table details Peoples’ provision for, or recovery of, loan losses recognized for the years ended 

December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
Provision for checking account overdrafts
Recovery of other loan losses

$

Net provision for (recovery of) loan losses $

As a percent of average total loans

2014

$

$

339
—
339
0.02%

2013

356
(4,766)
(4,410)

(0.42)%

$

$

2012

294
(5,010)
(4,716)
(0.49)%

The provision for, or recovery of, loan losses represents the amount needed to maintain the appropriateness of the 

allowance for loan losses based on management’s formal quarterly analysis of the loan portfolio and procedural methodology 
that estimates the amount of probable credit losses.  This process considers various factors that affect losses, such as changes 
in Peoples’ loan quality, historical loss experience and current economic conditions.  The provision for loan losses recorded in 
2014 was driven by checking account overdrafts, while the impact of increases in criticized assets was mitigated by $1.8 
million of recoveries on three loans that were previously charged-off.  The recoveries of loan losses recorded during 2013 and 
2012 were driven mostly by recoveries on commercial real estate loans that had previously incurred charge-offs.

Additional information regarding changes in the allowance for loan losses and loan credit quality can be found later in 

this discussion under the caption “Allowance for Loan Losses”.

39

Net Other Losses

The following table details the other losses for the years ended December 31 recognized by Peoples:

(Dollars in thousands)
Net (loss) gain on OREO
Net gain (loss) on debt extinguishment
Net loss on bank premises and equipment
Bargain purchase gain
Net other losses

2014

2013

2012

$

$

(68) $
67
(430)
—
(431) $

86 $
—
(241)
—
(155) $

66
(4,144)
(261)
13
(4,326)

Net losses on bank premises and equipment during 2014 included $380,000 of asset write-offs associated with 
acquisition-related activity.  Also during 2014, Peoples recognized a gain on debt extinguishment from a restructuring of 
acquired FHLB advances, and a loss on OREO from the sale of a residential property that was held.  Net losses on bank 
premises and equipment incurred in 2013 included $248,000 of asset write-offs associated with the Ohio Commerce Bank 
("Ohio Commerce") acquisition.  The loss on debt extinguishment in 2012 included $3.1 million for the prepayment of $35 
million of wholesale borrowings and $1.0 million for the redemption of trust preferred securities.  Net losses on bank 
premises and equipment during 2012 were due to asset write-offs associated with the Sistersville Bancorp, Inc. acquisition.

Non-Interest Income

Peoples generates non-interest income, which excludes gains and losses on investments and other assets, from five 
primary sources: insurance sales revenues, deposit account service charges, trust and investment activities, electronic banking 
(“e-banking”), and mortgage banking.  Peoples continues to focus on revenue growth from non-interest income sources in 
order to maintain a diversified revenue stream through greater reliance on fee-based revenues.  As a result, total non-interest 
income accounted for 36.6% of Peoples' total revenues in 2014, compared to 40.2% in 2013 and 39.1% in 2012.  The decline 
in Peoples' total non-interest income as a percent of total revenue during 2014 was primarily due to increased net interest 
income from recent acquisitions.

Insurance income comprised the largest portion of Peoples' non-interest income.  The following table details Peoples’ 

insurance income for the years ended December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
Property and casualty insurance commissions $

Performance-based commissions
Life and health insurance commissions
Credit life and A&H insurance commissions
Other fees and charges

Total insurance income

$

2014

2013

2012

9,981 $

9,873 $

1,722
1,630
38
233
13,604 $

804
1,227
90
207
12,201 $

7,974

1,026
526
122
196
9,844

During 2014 and 2013, increases in life and health insurance commissions were the result of acquisitions completed 

during the second quarter of 2013.  Performance-based commissions were a key driver in the overall increase in insurance 
income and are typically recorded annually in the first quarter and are based on a combination of factors, such as loss 
experience of insurance policies sold, production volumes, and overall financial performance of the individual insurance 
carriers.  Compared to 2012, the growth in property and casualty insurance commissions was a result of successful 
integration of acquisitions during 2013, a higher rate of referrals between lines of business and higher premiums throughout 
the industry. 

Service charges and other fees on deposit accounts, which are based on the recovery of costs associated with services 

provided, comprised a significant portion of Peoples' non-interest income.  The following table details Peoples' deposit 
account service charges for the years ended December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
Overdraft and non-sufficient funds fees
Account maintenance fees
Other fees and charges

$

Total deposit account service charges $

2014

2013

2012

7,177 $
1,690
306
9,173 $

7,233 $
1,283
248
8,764 $

7,481
1,246
238
8,965

40

The amount of deposit account service charges, particularly fees for overdrafts and non-sufficient funds, is largely 
dependent on the timing and volume of customer activity.  Peoples typically experiences a lower volume of overdraft and 
non-sufficient funds fees annually in the first quarter attributable to customers receiving income tax refunds, while volumes 
generally increase in the fourth quarter in connection with the holiday shopping season.  Management periodically evaluates 
its cost recovery fees to ensure they are reasonable based on operational costs and similar to fees charged in Peoples' markets 
by competitors.  Increases in account maintenance fees in 2014, compared to 2013, were the result of higher fees received on 
commercial accounts and rewards checking accounts.

Peoples' fiduciary and brokerage revenues continue to be based primarily upon the value of assets under management.  

The following table details Peoples’ trust and investment income for the years ended December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
Fiduciary
Brokerage

Total trust and investment income

2014

2013

2012

$

$

5,567 $
2,118
7,685 $

5,103 $
2,019
7,122 $

4,557
1,572
6,129

The following table details Peoples’ managed assets at year-end December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
Trust assets under management
Brokerage assets under management

Total managed assets
Annual average

2014

2013

$ 1,022,189 $ 1,000,171 $

2012
888,134
404,320
$ 1,547,278 $ 1,474,555 $ 1,292,454
$ 1,511,656 $ 1,395,137 $ 1,182,494

474,384

525,089

During 2014 and 2013, fiduciary income increased primarily due to higher managed asset account balances and 
retirement benefits plan income due to the addition of new plans.  In recent years, Peoples has added experienced financial 
advisors in previously underserved market areas, and generated new business and revenue related to retirement plans for 
which it manages the assets and provides services.  The U.S. financial markets continued to experience a general increase 
during 2014, which also contributed to the increase in managed assets. 

Peoples' e-banking services include ATM and debit cards, direct deposit services, internet and mobile banking, and serve 
as alternative delivery channels to traditional sales offices for providing services to clients.  During 2014, electronic banking 
income grew $451,000, or 7% compared to 2013, due to a continued increase in the volume of debit card transactions.  In 
2014, Peoples' customers used their debit cards to complete $467 million of transactions, versus $416 million in 2013 and 
$391 million in 2012.

Mortgage banking income is comprised mostly of net gains from the origination and sale of long-term, fixed-rate real 

estate loans in the secondary market.  As a result, the amount of income recognized by Peoples is largely dependent on 
customer demand and long-term interest rates for residential real estate loans offered in the secondary market.  Mortgage 
banking income decreased 30% in 2014 and 39% in 2013 due to slowed refinancing activity.  In 2014, Peoples sold 
approximately $48.8 million of loans to the secondary market compared to $73.2 million in 2013 and $129.4 million in 2012.

41

Non-Interest Expense

Salaries and employee benefit costs remain Peoples’ largest non-interest expense, accounting for over half of total non-
interest expense.  The following table details Peoples’ salaries and employee benefit costs for the years ended December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
Base salaries and wages
Sales-based and incentive compensation
Employee benefits
Stock-based compensation
Deferred personnel costs
Payroll taxes and other employment costs

$

Total salaries and employee benefit costs

$

Full-time equivalent employees:
Actual at end of period
Average during the period

2014

2013

2012

29,265 $
7,265
5,880
2,111
(1,396)
3,468
46,593 $

24,028 $
7,110
3,622
1,362
(2,292)
2,642
36,472 $

699
602

546
531

21,076
6,484
4,277
942
(1,884)
2,531
33,426

494
499  

Base salaries and wages increased in both 2014 and 2013 due to completed acquisitions, additional operational staff and 

the addition of new sales talent in several markets, which significantly impacted the number of full-time equivalent 
employees.  Peoples' sales-based and incentive compensation is tied to corporate incentive plans and commission from sales 
production.  This area has grown over recent years in conjunction with the increased commission-based revenue and 
improved financial performance.

Peoples' employee benefit costs increased 62% compared to 2013 primarily due to pension settlement charges of $1.4 
million incurred in 2014, compared to $270,000 in 2013 and $835,000 in 2012.  Effective March 1, 2011, Peoples froze the 
accrual of pension benefits, and since then, settlement charges have been largely based on the timing of retirements of 
individuals and their election of lump-sum distributions.  Under US GAAP, Peoples is required to recognize a settlement gain 
or loss when the aggregate amount of lump-sum distributions to participants equals or exceeds the sum of the service and 
interest cost components of the net periodic pension cost.  The amount of settlement gain or loss recognized is the pro rata 
amount of the unrealized gain or loss existing immediately prior to the settlement.  Management anticipates continued 
pension settlement charges in future years as individuals retire and elect lump-sum distributions from the plan.  During 2014, 
employee benefit costs also increased $994,000 from higher employee medical benefit plan expenses, which are tied to 
claims activity, compared to a reduction in 2013 from 2012.

Stock-based compensation is generally recognized over the vesting period, typically ranging from 6 months to 3 

years.  For all awards, expense is initially only recognized for the portion of awards that is expected to vest, and at the vesting 
date, an adjustment is made to recognize the entire expense for vested awards and reverse expense for non-vested awards.  
The majority of Peoples' stock-based compensation expense is attributable to annual equity-based incentive awards to 
employees, which are awarded in the first quarter and based upon Peoples achieving certain performance goals during the 
prior year.  During 2014, Peoples granted restricted shares to non-employee directors, officers and key employees with 
performance-based vesting periods and time-based vesting periods.  Stock-based compensation expense in 2014 included 
$1,048,000 of expense related to these awards, $298,000 related to a one-time stock award of unrestricted common shares to 
all full-time and part-time employees who did not already participate in the equity plan, while the remaining expense 
recognized was for grants awarded in previous years.  As it is probable that all outstanding performance-based vesting 
conditions will be satisfied, Peoples recorded the pro-rata expense for all outstanding performance-based awards in 2014, as 
required by US GAAP.  Additional information regarding Peoples' stock-based compensation plans and awards can be found 
in Note 16 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements. 

Deferred personnel costs represent the portion of current period salaries and employee benefit costs considered to be 
direct loan origination costs.  These costs are capitalized and recognized over the life of the loan as a yield adjustment to 
interest income.  As a result, the amount of deferred personnel costs for each year corresponds directly with the level of new 
loan originations.  Additional information regarding Peoples' loan activity can be found later in this discussion under the 
caption “Loans”.

42

Peoples’ net occupancy and equipment expense for the years ended December 31 was comprised of the following:

(Dollars in thousands)
Depreciation
Repairs and maintenance costs
Net rent expense
Property taxes, utilities and other costs

$

Total net occupancy and equipment expense $

2014

2013

2012

2,986 $
2,057
931
1,865
7,839 $

2,581 $
1,739
925
1,595
6,840 $

2,212
1,467
866
1,549
6,094

During 2014, Peoples acquired several new offices which resulted in higher depreciation, repairs and maintenance costs 

and property taxes, utilities and other costs.  In addition, Peoples opened several new branch locations, completed the 
renovation of its branch network that began in 2013 and finished a rebranding project in late 2012.  Management continues to 
monitor capital expenditures and explore opportunities to enhance Peoples' operating efficiency.

Professional fees expense represents the cost of accounting, legal and other third-party professional services utilized by 

Peoples, and increased 34% during 2014.  Professional fees incurred as a result of acquisition-related activities were $2.0 
million in 2014, compared to $448,000 and $300,000 in 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Peoples' e-banking expense, which is comprised of bankcard, internet and mobile banking costs, increased in 2014 and 
2013 due to customers completing a higher volume of transactions using their debit cards, Peoples' internet banking service 
and increased debit card compromises at certain large retail companies.  These factors also produced a greater increase in the 
corresponding e-banking revenues over the same periods.

In 2014, marketing expense, which includes advertising, donation and other public relations costs, was relatively flat 
compared to 2013.  Marketing expense decreased in 2013 due to the higher expenses in 2012 recognized in connection with 
the rebranding efforts.  Peoples contributed $300,000 in 2014, $200,000 in 2013 and $400,000 in 2012 to Peoples Bancorp 
Foundation Inc.  Peoples formed this private foundation in 2004 to make charitable contributions to organizations within 
Peoples' primary market area.  Future contributions to Peoples Bancorp Foundation Inc. will be evaluated on a quarterly 
basis, with the determination of the amount of any contribution based largely on the perceived level of need within the 
communities Peoples serves.  

Peoples is subject to state franchise taxes, which are based largely on Peoples Bank's equity at year-end, in the states 
where Peoples Bank has a physical presence.  Franchise taxes increased during 2013 due to an increase in equity from the 
overall improvement in earnings.  Peoples regularly evaluates the capital position of its direct and indirect subsidiaries from 
both a cost and leverage perspective.  Ultimately, management seeks to optimize Peoples' consolidated capital position 
through allocation of capital, which is intended to enhance profitability and shareholder value. 

Peoples' intangible asset amortization expense is driven by acquisition-related activity, and increased 77% in 2014 and 
59% in 2013.  Management expects this amount to increase significantly in 2015 as it continues to complete acquisitions and 
recognizes a full year of amortization for acquisitions completed during 2014.

Data processing and software costs include software support, maintenance and depreciation expense.  These costs 
increased during 2014 due to the recent acquisitions and new software projects completed, and were relatively flat in 2013 
compared to 2012.

Peoples' FDIC insurance costs increased during 2014 as a result of recent acquisitions.  These costs stabilized during 
2013 and 2012, after new regulations required by the Dodd-Frank Act became effective during 2011.  Additional information 
regarding Peoples' FDIC insurance assessments may be found in "ITEM 1 - BUSINESS" of this Form 10-K in the section 
captioned "Supervision and Regulation".

Peoples' efficiency ratio, calculated as non-interest expense less amortization of other intangible assets divided by FTE 
net interest income plus non-interest income, was 75.37% for 2014, compared to 71.90% for 2013 and 69.55% for 2012.  The 
increases in 2014 and 2013 were largely a result of one-time costs for acquisitions plus higher salaries and employee benefit 
costs. 

Income Tax Expense

A key driver of the amount of income tax expense or benefit recognized by Peoples each year is the amount of pre-tax 
income derived from tax-exempt sources.  Additionally, Peoples receives tax benefits from its investments in tax credit funds, 
which reduce Peoples' effective tax rate.  A reconciliation of Peoples' recorded income tax expense/benefit and effective tax 
rate to the statutory tax rate can be found in Note 12 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

43

Pre-Provision Net Revenue

Pre-provision net revenue ("PPNR") has become a key financial measure used by federal bank regulatory agencies when 

assessing the capital adequacy of financial institutions.  PPNR is defined as net interest income plus non-interest income 
minus non-interest expense and therefore, excludes the provision for (recovery of) loan losses and all gains and losses 
included in earnings.  As a result, PPNR represents the earnings capacity that can be either retained in order to build capital or 
used to absorb unexpected losses and preserve existing capital.

The following table provides a reconciliation of this non-GAAP financial measure to the amounts reported in Peoples' 

consolidated financial statements for the periods presented:

(Dollars in thousands)

2014

2013

2012

2011

2010

Pre-Provision Net Revenue:
Income before income taxes
Add: provision for loan losses
Add: net loss on debt extinguishment
Add: net loss on loans held-for-sale and OREO
Add: net loss on securities transactions
Add: net loss on other assets
Less: recovery of loan losses
Less: net gain on debt extinguishment
Less: net gain on loans held-for-sale and OREO
Less: net gain on securities transactions
Less: net gain on other assets
Pre-provision net revenue

Pre-provision net revenue
Total average assets

$

$

$

24,178
339
—
95
30
430
—
67
27
428
—
24,550

24,550
2,240,534

$

$

$

29,084
—
—
—
—
241
4,410
—
86
489
—
24,340

24,340
1,932,367

$

$

$

29,910
—
4,144
—
—
248
4,716
—
66
3,548
—
25,972

25,972
1,841,289

$

$

$

17,151
7,998
—
926
—
—
—
—
—
473
10
25,592

25,592
1,811,079

$

$

$

5,753
26,916
3,630
3,173
1,786
88
—
—
—
6,852
—
34,494

34,494
1,961,727

Pre-provision net revenue to total average assets

1.10%

1.26%

1.41%

1.41%

1.76%

During 2014, PPNR declined due to higher average assets resulting from recent acquisitions and organic growth, coupled 

with additional costs from acquisition-related activities. 

FINANCIAL CONDITION

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Peoples considers cash and cash equivalents to consist of Federal Funds sold, cash and balances due from banks, interest-

bearing balances in other institutions and other short-term investments that are readily liquid.  The amount of cash and cash 
equivalents fluctuates on a daily basis due to customer activity and Peoples' liquidity needs.  At December 31, 2014, excess 
cash reserves at the Federal Reserve Bank were $12.4 million, compared to $14.2 million at December 31, 2013.  The amount 
of excess cash reserves maintained is dependent upon Peoples' daily liquidity position, which is driven primarily by changes 
in deposit and loan balances.

In 2014, Peoples' total cash and cash equivalents decreased $7.6 million, as cash provided by Peoples' operating 
activities of $31.5 million was mostly offset by cash used by investing activities of $9.7 million and financing activities of  
$14.2 million.  Cash provided by activities in available-for-sale securities and business combinations of $44.7 million, and 
$17.1 million, respectively, partially funded loan growth of $76.1 million.  Within Peoples' financing activities, the decreases 
in interest-bearing deposits and short-term borrowings of $56.1 million were tempered by an increase in non-interest bearing 
deposits of $18.4 million and $40.2 million in proceeds from issuance of common shares.

In 2013, Peoples' total cash and cash equivalents decreased $8.7 million, as cash provided by Peoples' operating and 
financing activities of $40.5 million and $30.8 million, respectively, were more than offset by the $80.0 million of cash used 
by investing activities. Investing activities used $109.6 million to fund loan growth, while the BOLI Surrender provided cash 
of $43.1 million. Within Peoples' financing activities, the increase in short-term borrowings of $65.8 million was the result of 
loan growth, and decreases in deposit balances of $22.4 million, excluding the impact of acquired deposits.

44

Further information regarding the management of Peoples' liquidity position can be found later in this discussion under 

“Interest Rate Sensitivity and Liquidity.”

Investment Securities

The following table provides information regarding Peoples’ investment portfolio at December 31:

2014

2013

2012

2011

2010

(Dollars in thousands)
Available-for-sale securities, at fair value:

Obligations of:

U.S. Treasury and government agencies
U.S. government sponsored agencies
States and political subdivisions

Residential mortgage-backed securities
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
Bank-issued trust preferred securities
Equity securities
U.S. government-backed student loan pools
Collateralized debt obligations

$

1 $

5,950
64,743
527,291
27,847
5,645
5,403
—
—

Total fair value
Total amortized cost
Net unrealized gain (loss)

$
$
$

636,880 $
632,967 $
3,913 $

20 $
319
50,962
510,097
32,304
7,829
4,577
—
—

606,108 $
621,126 $
(15,018) $

26 $
516
45,668
514,096
64,416
10,357
4,106
—
—

639,185 $
628,584 $
10,601 $

32 $

13,037
35,745
527,003
37,289
12,211
3,254
—
—

628,571 $
617,128 $
11,443 $

39
12,262
47,379
507,534
30,700
12,984
3,088
—
—
613,986
617,122
(3,136)

Held-to-maturity securities, at amortized cost:

Obligations of:

States and political subdivisions

Residential mortgage-backed securities
Commercial mortgage-backed securities

Total amortized cost

Total investment portfolio:

Amortized cost
Carrying value

$

$

$
$

3,841 $
36,945
7,682
48,468 $

3,850 $
37,536
7,836
49,222 $

3,860 $
33,494
7,921
45,275 $

3,525 $
12,776
—
16,301 $

—
—
—
—

681,435 $
685,348 $

670,348 $
655,330 $

673,859 $
684,460 $

633,429 $
644,872 $

617,122
613,986

At December 31, 2014, Peoples' investment securities were approximately 27.8% of total assets compared to 33.0% at 
December 31, 2013, as Peoples continued to focus on reducing the relative size of the investment portfolio.  During 2014, 
Peoples acquired and retained approximately $11.9 million of available-for-sale investment securities, while the remaining 
acquired securities were sold.  The additional increases in the available-for-sale investment securities in 2014 were due to 
purchases outpacing sales, calls and maturities.  In 2013, and throughout 2012, Peoples designated certain securities as "held-
to-maturity" at the time of their purchase, as management made the determination Peoples would hold these securities until 
maturity and concluded Peoples had the ability to do so.  Recently, Peoples has maintained the size of the held-to-maturity 
securities portfolio, for which the unrealized gain or loss does not directly impact stockholders' equity, in contrast to the 
impact from the available-for-sale securities portfolio.

Peoples has taken actions within the investment portfolio in an effort to reduce interest rate exposure, resulting in sales 

during 2013 of several residential mortgage-backed securities and commercial mortgage-backed securities.  Peoples' 
investment in residential and commercial mortgage-backed securities largely consists of securities either guaranteed by the 
U.S. government or issued by U.S. government sponsored agencies, such as Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. The remaining 
portions of Peoples' mortgage-backed securities consist of securities issued by other entities, including other financial 
institutions, which are not guaranteed by the U.S. government.  

45

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The amount of these “non-agency” securities included in the residential and commercial mortgage-backed securities 

totals above was as follows at December 31: 

(Dollars in thousands)
Residential
Commercial

Total fair value

Total amortized cost
Net unrealized gain

2014

2013

2012

2011

2010

$

$
$
$

14,058 $
—
14,058 $
13,604 $
454 $

23,446 $
—
23,446 $
22,926 $
520 $

37,267 $
—
37,267 $
36,395 $
872 $

58,660 $
1,288
59,948 $
59,148 $
800 $

113,559
26,090
139,649
136,997

2,652  

Management continues to reinvest the principal runoff from the non-agency securities in U.S agency investments, which 

has accounted for the continued decline in the fair value of these securities.  At December 31, 2014, Peoples' non-agency 
portfolio consisted entirely of first lien residential mortgages, with nearly all of the underlying loans in these securities 
originated prior to 2004 and possessing fixed interest rates.  Management continues to monitor the non-agency portfolio 
closely for leading indicators of increasing stress and will continue to be proactive in taking actions to mitigate such risk 
when necessary. 

Additional information regarding Peoples' investment portfolio can be found in Note 3 of the Notes to the Consolidated 

Financial Statements.

46

Loans

The following table provides information regarding outstanding loan balances at December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
Gross originated loans:

Commercial real estate, construction
Commercial real estate, other
     Commercial real estate
Commercial and industrial
Residential real estate
Home equity lines of credit
Consumer
Deposit account overdrafts
Total originated loans

Gross acquired loans:
Commercial real estate, construction
Commercial real estate, other
     Commercial real estate
Commercial and industrial
Residential real estate
Home equity lines of credit
Consumer

1,051
121,475
122,526
30,056
225,274
18,232
12,796
$ 408,884
$1,620,898
1,364,808
(17,362)
Average loans, net of average allowance for loan losses $1,347,446

Total acquired loans (a)
Total loans
Average total loans
Average allowance for loan losses

2014

2013

2012

2011

2010

$

37,901
434,660
472,561
249,975
254,169
62,463
169,913
2,933
$1,212,014

$

44,703
394,532
439,235
206,276
248,883
55,178
133,864
2,060
$1,085,496

2,836
55,638
58,474
26,478
19,734
4,898
1,154
$ 110,738
$1,196,234
1,046,371
(17,935)
$1,028,436

$ 32,000
378,073
410,073
180,131
211,404
49,691
99,011
6,563
$ 956,873

2,265
—
2,265
—
22,437
1,362
2,235
$ 28,299
$ 985,172
967,166
(21,473)
$ 945,693

$ 30,577
410,352
440,929
140,857
219,619
47,790
87,531
1,780
$ 938,506

$

27,595
425,528
453,123
153,713
219,833
48,525
83,323
2,201
$ 960,718

—
—
—
—
—
—
—
— $

—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
$ 960,718
1,029,903
(29,597)
$1,000,306

$
$ 938,506
950,951
(27,259)
$ 923,692

Percent of loans to total loans:
Commercial real estate, construction
Commercial real estate, other
     Commercial real estate
Commercial and industrial
Residential real estate
Home equity lines of credit
Consumer
Deposit account overdrafts

Total percentage

2.4 %
34.2 %
36.6 %
17.3 %
29.6 %
5.0 %
11.3 %
0.2 %
100.0%

4.0 %
37.6 %
41.6 %
19.5 %
22.5 %
5.0 %
11.3 %
0.1 %
100.0%

3.5 %
38.4 %
41.9 %
18.3 %
23.7 %
5.2 %
10.3 %
0.6 %

3.3 %
43.7 %
47.0 %
15.0 %
23.4 %
5.1 %
9.3 %
0.2 %
100.0% 100.0%

2.9 %
44.2 %
47.1 %
16.0 %
22.9 %
5.1 %
8.7 %
0.2 %
100.0%

Residential real estate loans being serviced for others

$ 352,779

$ 341,183

$ 330,721

$ 275,715

$ 250,691

(a)  Includes all loans acquired in 2012 and thereafter.

During 2014, total originated loans grew 12%, or $126.5 million, largely due to growth in commercial real estate, 

commercial and industrial and consumer loan balances.  At December 31, 2014, loans acquired from Midwest, Ohio Heritage 
and North Akron were approximately $52.5 million, $166.6 million and $108.8 million, respectively.  During 2013, total 
originated loans increased 13%, while acquired loans grew $84.5 million due to the Ohio Commerce acquisition.  Also during 
2013, Peoples retained a larger percentage of residential mortgage loans originated than in prior years which caused the 
increase in residential real estate loans.  

Beginning in 2013, Peoples placed greater emphasis on its consumer lending business, which primarily consists of 
automobile loans obtained directly or indirectly through automobile dealerships.  Peoples added additional sales talent within 
this business line and established better relationships with dealers, resulting in substantially higher loan balances compared to 
prior years.

47

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The following table details the maturities of Peoples' commercial and construction loans at December 31, 2014:

(Dollars in thousands)
Loan Type
Commercial real estate, construction:
Fixed
Variable
Total

Commercial real estate, other:
Fixed
Variable
Total

Commercial and industrial:
Fixed
Variable
Total

Due in One
Year or Less

Due in One
to Five Years

Due  After
Five Years

Total

$

$

$

$

$

$

943 $

25,264
26,207 $

— $

4,142
4,142 $

6,546 $

255,193
261,739 $

108,062 $
116,091
224,153 $

4,101 $

179,033
183,134 $

69,038 $
7,458
76,496 $

5,711 $
2,892
8,603 $

60,448 $
9,795
70,243 $

20,073 $
328
20,401 $

6,654
32,298
38,952

175,056
381,079
556,135

93,212
186,819
280,031

Loan Concentration

Peoples categorizes its commercial loans according to standard industry classifications and monitors for concentrations 

in a single industry or multiple industries that could be impacted by changes in economic conditions in a similar manner.

Loans secured by commercial real estate, including commercial construction loans, continue to comprise the largest 

portion of Peoples' loan portfolio.  The following table provides information regarding the largest concentrations of 
commercial real estate loans within the loan portfolio at December 31, 2014:

Outstanding
Balance

Loan
Commitments

Total

Exposure % of Total

$

9,385 $
3,311
12,955

4,464 $
5,101
24,624

213
1,995
2,208

895
112
1,007
853
2,975
6,258
38,952 $

37
2,757
2,794

—
2,266
2,266
2,092
—
5,440
46,781 $

13,849
8,412
37,579

250
4,752
5,002

895
2,378
3,273
2,945
2,975
11,698
85,733

16.2 %
9.8 %
43.8 %

0.3 %
5.5 %
5.8 %

1.0 %
2.8 %
3.8 %
3.4 %
3.5 %
13.7 %
100.0%

(Dollars in thousands)
Commercial real estate, construction:
Assisted living facilities and nursing homes
Residential property
Apartment complexes
Office buildings and complexes:

Owner occupied
Non-owner occupied

Total office buildings and complexes

Mixed commercial use facilities:

Owner occupied
Non-owner occupied

Total mixed commercial use facilities

Day care facilities - owner occupied
Restaurant facilities
Other

Total commercial real estate, construction

$

48

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(Dollars in thousands)
Commercial real estate, other:
Lodging and lodging related
Apartment complexes
Office buildings and complexes:

Owner occupied
Non-owner occupied

Total office buildings and complexes

Light industrial facilities:

Owner occupied
Non-owner occupied

Total light industrial facilities

Retail facilities:

Owner occupied
Non-owner occupied

Total retail facilities

Assisted living facilities and nursing homes
Mixed commercial use facilities:

Owner occupied
Non-owner occupied

Total mixed commercial use facilities

Day care facilities - owner occupied
Health care facilities:
Owner occupied
Non-owner occupied

Total health care facilities

Restaurant facilities:
Owner occupied
Non-owner occupied

Total restaurant facilities

Warehouse facilities
Gas station facilities:
Owner occupied
Non-owner occupied

Total gas station facilities

Fitness center facilities:
Owner occupied
Non-owner occupied

Total fitness center facilities

Other

Outstanding
Balance

Loan
Commitments

Total

Exposure % of Total

$

51,826 $
65,073

— $
50

18,371
46,055
64,426

31,975
2,217
34,192

17,840
32,463
50,303
45,043

21,953
18,748
40,701
18,032

5,496
3,423
8,919

15,089
1,082
16,171
16,733

5,525
6,674
12,199

169
732
901

317
—
317

115
—
115
251

1,041
307
1,348
—

38
145
183

68
—
68
281

75
—
75

51,826
65,123

18,540
46,787
65,327

32,292
2,217
34,509

17,955
32,463
50,418
45,294

22,994
19,055
42,049
18,032

5,534
3,568
9,102

15,157
1,082
16,239
17,014

5,600
6,674
12,274

9.1 %
11.4 %

3.2 %
8.2 %
11.4 %

5.7 %
0.4 %
6.1 %

3.2 %
5.7 %
8.9 %
8.0 %

4.0 %
3.3 %
7.3 %
3.2 %

1.0 %
0.6 %
1.6 %

2.7 %
0.2 %
2.9 %
3.0 %

1.0 %
1.2 %
2.2 %

10,428
233
10,661
121,856
556,135 $

31
—
31
9,435
13,055 $

10,459
233
10,692
131,291
569,190

1.8 %
— %
1.8 %
23.1 %
100.0%

Total commercial real estate, other

$

Peoples' commercial lending activities continue to focus on lending opportunities inside its primary and secondary 
market areas within Ohio, West Virginia and Kentucky. In all other states, the aggregate outstanding balances of commercial 
loans in each state were less than $4.0 million at both December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013.

49

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Allowance for Loan Losses

The amount of the allowance for loan losses at the end of each period represents management's estimate of probable 
losses from existing loans based upon its formal quarterly analysis of the loan portfolio described in the “Critical Accounting 
Policies” section of this discussion. While this process involves allocations being made to specific loans and pools of loans, 
the entire allowance is available for all losses incurred within the loan portfolio.  The following details management's 
allocation of the allowance for loan losses at December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
Commercial real estate
Commercial and industrial
Total commercial
Residential real estate
Home equity lines of credit
Consumer
Deposit account overdrafts

Total allowance for loan losses
As a percent of originated loans, net
of deferred fees and costs

2014

2013

2012

2011

2010

$

$

9,825
4,036
13,861
1,627
694
1,587
112
17,881

$

$

13,215
2,174
15,389
881
343
316
136
17,065

$

$

14,215
1,733
15,948
801
479
438
145
17,811

$

$

18,947
2,434
21,381
1,119
541
449
227
23,717

$

$

21,806
2,160
23,966
1,400
431
721
248
26,766

1.48%

1.58%

1.86%

2.53%

2.79%

The reduction in the allowance for loan losses allocated to commercial real estate during 2014 was driven by net 

recoveries in recent years reducing the historical loss rates.  Increases in the commercial and industrial, residential real estate, 
home equity lines of credit and consumer categories of the allowance for loan losses were driven by net charge-off activity 
and increases in balances of the respective loan portfolios.

The significant allocations to commercial loans reflect the higher credit risk associated with these types of lending and 

the size of these loan categories in relationship to the entire loan portfolio.  During 2014, Peoples experienced an increase of 
$15.7 million in criticized loans, which are those classified as watch, substandard or doubtful.  Peoples received principal 
paydowns of $20.6 million in 2014, and upgraded $33.7 million in loans based upon the financial condition of the borrowers.  
Net charge-offs continued to remain at or below Peoples' long-term historical rate. 

The allowance allocated to the residential real estate and consumer loan categories was based upon Peoples' allowance 
methodology for homogeneous pools of loans. The fluctuations in these allocations have been directionally consistent with 
the changes in loan quality, loss experience and loan balances in these categories.

50

The following table summarizes the changes in the allowance for loan losses for the years ended December 31:

2014
17,065

2013
17,811

$

2011
23,717

$

2011
26,766

$

2010
27,257

$

$

(Dollars in thousands)
Allowance for loan losses, January 1
Gross charge-offs:

Commercial real estate, construction
Commercial real estate, other
Commercial real estate
Commercial and industrial
Residential real estate
Home equity lines of credit
Consumer
Deposit account overdrafts
Total gross charge-offs

Recoveries:

Commercial real estate, construction
Commercial real estate, other
Commercial real estate
Commercial and industrial
Residential real estate
Home equity lines of credit
Consumer
Deposit account overdrafts

Total recoveries

Net (recoveries) charge-offs:

Commercial real estate, construction
Commercial real estate, other
Commercial real estate
Commercial and industrial
Residential real estate
Home equity lines of credit
Consumer
Deposit account overdrafts

—
203
203
199
478
128
1,191
516
2,715

—
2,060
2,060
77
169
36
697
153
3,192

—
1,053
1,053
44
621
162
1,084
527
3,491

—
5,839
5,839
40
536
26
552
162
7,155

—
(1,857)
(1,857)
122
309
92
494
363
(477)

339
17,881

$

$

—
(4,786)
(4,786)
4
85
136
532
365
(3,664)

(4,410)
17,065

$

$

—
5,146
5,146
34
1,091
94
572
574
7,511

—
4,399
4,399
358
773
32
561
198
6,321

—
747
747
(324)
318
62
11
376
1,190

(4,716)
17,811

$

$

— %
0.08 %
0.08 %
(0.03)%
0.03 %
— %
— %
0.04 %
0.12 %

—
11,249
11,249
1,033
1,593
366
939
664
15,844

—
2,469
2,469
729
636
51
687
225
4,797

—
8,780
8,780
304
957
315
252
439
11,047

7,998
23,717

$

$

68
25,568
25,636
1,281
1,129
131
1,074
929
30,180

—
1,322
1,322
220
225
34
671
301
2,773

68
24,246
24,314
1,061
904
97
403
628
27,407

26,916
26,766

— %
0.92 %
0.92 %
0.03 %
0.10 %
0.03 %
0.03 %
0.05 %
1.16%

0.01 %
2.35 %
2.36 %
0.10 %
0.09 %
0.01 %
0.04 %
0.06 %
2.66%

Total net (recoveries) charge-offs
Provision for (recoveries of) loan losses,  
    December 31

$

Allowance for loan losses, December 31 $

Net (recoveries) charge-offs as a percent of average total loans:

Commercial real estate, construction
Commercial real estate, other
Commercial real estate
Commercial and industrial
Residential real estate
Home equity lines of credit
Consumer
Deposit account overdrafts

Total

— %
(0.14 )%
(0.14 )%
0.01 %
0.02 %
0.01 %
0.04 %
0.03 %
(0.03)%

— %
(0.46 )%
(0.46 )%
— %
0.01 %
0.01 %
0.05 %
0.04 %
(0.35)%

During 2014, Peoples recorded recoveries of $1.5 million on two previously charged-off commercial real estate loans.  

Peoples' net charge-offs continue to remain well below the long-term historical average of 0.30% to 0.50%.  Peoples focuses 
on sound underwriting and prudent risk management to maintain this lower level of charge-offs.

51

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The following table details Peoples’ nonperforming assets at December 31: 

2014

2013

2012

2011

2010

$

(Dollars in thousands)
Loans 90+ days past due and accruing:

Commercial real estate, other
Commercial and industrial
Residential real estate
Home equity lines of credit
Consumer
Total
Nonaccrual loans:

Commercial real estate, construction
Commercial real estate, other
Commercial and industrial
Residential real estate
Home equity lines of credit
Consumer
Total

Nonaccrual troubled debt restructurings:
Commercial real estate, construction
Commercial real estate, other
Commercial and industrial
Residential real estate
Home equity lines of credit
Consumer
Total

Total nonperforming loans (NPLs)

Other real estate owned (OREO)

Commercial
Residential
Total

Total nonperforming assets (NPAs)

$

NPLs as a percent of total loans
NPAs as a percent of total assets
NPAs as a percent of total loans and OREO
Allowance for loan losses as a percent of NPLs

$

$

567
301
1,901
20
10
2,799

—
2,278
1,800
2,695
315
3
7,091

96
306
194
658
45
16
1,315
11,205

582
364
946
12,151

0.69%
0.47%
0.75%
159.58%

96
1,882
630
1,615
81
58
4,362

—
916
—
650
6
—
1,572
7,174

$

465
428
893
8,067
0.60%
0.39%
0.67%
237.87%

— $
78
289
873
—
1,240

— $
181
293
1,050
4
1,528

— $
—
613
708
—
1,321

—
—
27
645
—
672

—
34,392
1,714
3,197
554
—
39,857

—
—
—
593
—
—
593
41,122

4,280
215
4,495
45,617

—
7,233
627
1,864
24
12
9,760

—
2,572
—
350
—
—
2,922
14,210

815
21
836
15,046

$

—
20,556
2,262
2,827
349
—
25,994

—
2,959
—
425
—
—
3,384
30,699

2,194
—
2,194
32,893

$

1.43%
0.78%
1.52%
125.34%

3.26%
1.83%
3.48%
77.26%

4.26%
2.48%
4.70%
65.09%

At December 31, 2014, loans 90+ days past due and accruing included $2.3 million of loans that were acquired that had 
evidence of credit quality deterioration since origination and for which interest income was being recognized on a level-yield 
method over the life of the loan.

The majority of Peoples' nonaccrual commercial real estate loans continued to consist of non-owner occupied 

commercial properties and real estate development projects.  In general, management believes repayment of these loans is 
dependent on the sale of the underlying collateral.  As such, the carrying values of these loans are ultimately supported by 
management's estimate of the net proceeds Peoples would receive upon the sale of the collateral.  These estimates are based 
in part on market values provided by independent, licensed or certified appraisers periodically, but no less frequently than 
annually.  Given the volatility in commercial real estate values, management continues to monitor changes in real estate 
values from quarter-to-quarter and updates its estimates as needed based on observable changes in market prices and/or 
updated appraisals for similar properties.  The significant decreases in nonaccrual commercial real estate loans during recent 
years was a result of the addition of a special assets group and their efforts in collecting and recovering payments on 
delinquent commercial loans.  The increase in nonaccrual commercial and industrial loans during 2014 was driven by a single 
$1.2 million relationship placed on nonaccrual during the fourth quarter of 2014.

Interest income on loans classified as nonaccrual and renegotiated at each year-end that would have been recorded under 
the original terms of the loans was $0.5 million for 2014, $0.2 million for 2013 and $0.5 million for 2012.  No portion of the 

52

 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
 
amounts was recorded during 2014, 2013 or 2012, consistent with the income recognition policy described in the “Critical 
Accounting Policies” section of this discussion.

Overall, management believes the allowance for loan losses was adequate at December 31, 2014, based on all significant 

information currently available.  Still, there can be no assurance that the allowance for loan losses will be adequate to cover 
future losses or that the amount of nonperforming loans will remain at current levels, especially considering the current 
economic uncertainty that exists and the concentration of commercial loans in Peoples’ loan portfolio.

Deposits

The following table details Peoples’ deposit balances at December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
Interest-bearing deposits:

Retail certificates of deposit
Money market deposit accounts
Governmental deposit accounts
Savings accounts
Interest-bearing demand accounts

Total retail interest-bearing deposits

Brokered certificates of deposits
Total interest-bearing deposits

Non-interest-bearing deposits

Total deposits

$

$

2014

2013

2012

2011

2010

432,563 $
337,387
161,305
295,307
173,659
1,400,221
39,691
1,439,912
493,162
1,933,074 $

363,226 $
275,801
132,379
215,802
134,618
1,121,826
49,041
1,170,867
409,891
1,580,758 $

392,313 $
288,404
130,630
183,499
124,787
1,119,633
55,599
1,175,232
317,071
1,492,303 $

411,247 $
264,873
126,453
138,383
106,233
1,047,189
64,054
1,111,243
239,837
1,351,080 $

430,886
284,382
127,719
119,572
96,507
1,059,066
87,465
1,146,531
215,069
1,361,600

At December 31, 2014, the Midwest, Ohio Heritage and North Akron acquisitions added approximately $105.0 million 
of certificates of deposits (“CDs”), $165.1 million of money market deposit accounts, $2.1 million of governmental deposit 
accounts, $53.1 million of savings accounts, $1.0 million of interest-bearing demand accounts and $5.5 million of non-
interest-bearing deposits.  

In 2014, Peoples continued to maintain its deposit strategy of growing low-cost core deposits, such as checking and 
savings accounts, and reducing its reliance on higher-cost, non-core deposits, such as CDs and brokered deposits.  This 
strategy has included more selective pricing of long-term CDs, governmental/public fund deposits and similar non-core 
deposits, as well as not renewing maturing brokered deposits.  As a result, organic balances in CDs and money market deposit 
accounts declined 10% and 38%, respectively, in 2014.  Governmental deposit accounts experienced 20% organic growth as 
higher balances were maintained in several city and county deposit accounts.  Also during 2014, interest-bearing demand 
accounts increased due to higher balances held by individual accounts.

Non-interest-bearing deposits continued to grow in 2014, due largely to a mix of higher balances in both commercial and 

consumer deposit balances.  During 2014, organic non-interest-bearing deposit balances increased $77.8 million, or 19%.

Peoples' governmental deposit accounts represent savings and interest-bearing transaction accounts from state and local 
governmental entities.  These funds are subject to periodic fluctuations based on the timing of tax collections and subsequent 
expenditures or disbursements.  Peoples normally experiences an increase in balances annually during the first quarter 
corresponding with tax collections, with declines normally in the second half of each year corresponding with expenditures 
by the governmental entities.  While these balances have increased since 2008, Peoples continues to emphasize growth of 
low-cost deposits that do not require Peoples to pledge assets as collateral, which is required in the case of governmental 
deposit accounts.

The maturities of retail CDs with total balances of $250,000 or more at December 31 were as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
3 months or less
Over 3 to 6 months
Over 6 to 12 months
Over 12 months

Total

2014

2013

2012

2011

2010

$

$

14,058 $
7,072
12,600
25,301
59,031 $

19,969 $
5,952
11,551
26,419
63,891 $

10,745 $
6,422
12,020
23,643
52,830 $

20,457 $
2,726
7,416
19,681
50,280 $

51,159
—
—
1,058
52,217

53

 
 
 
 
 
Borrowed Funds

The following table details Peoples’ short-term and long-term borrowings at December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
Short-term borrowings:

FHLB advances
Retail repurchase agreements

Total short-term borrowings

Long-term borrowings:

2014

2013

2012

2011

2010

$

15,000 $
73,277
88,277

71,000 $
42,590
113,590

15,000 $
32,769
47,769

8,500 $
43,143
51,643

FHLB advances
Callable national market repurchase agreements
Term note payable (parent company)

Total long-term borrowings

Subordinated debentures held by subsidiary trust

124,714
40,000
14,369
179,083
—

62,679
40,000
19,147
121,826
—

64,904
40,000
23,919
128,823
—

Total borrowed funds

$

267,360 $

235,416 $

176,592 $

77,312
65,000
—
142,312
22,600
216,555 $

—
51,509
51,509

92,703
65,000
—
157,703
22,565
231,777

Peoples' short-term FHLB advances generally consist of overnight borrowings being maintained in connection with the 
management of Peoples' daily liquidity position.  During 2014, Peoples reduced its usage of short-term FHLB advances due 
to the increase in deposit balances.  Peoples' retail repurchase agreements consist of overnight agreements with commercial 
customers and serve as a cash management tool.

The increase in the long-term borrowings during 2014 was primarily due to Peoples acquiring and restructuring long-

term FHLB advances from Ohio Heritage.  During 2012, Peoples entered into a loan agreement that was subsequently 
amended in 2014 (as amended, "Amended Loan Agreement"), and Peoples is subject to certain covenants imposed by this 
Amended Loan Agreement.  At December 31, 2014, Peoples was in compliance with the applicable material covenants.

Additional information regarding Peoples' borrowed funds can be found in Notes 8 and 9 of the Notes to the 

Consolidated Financial Statements.

Capital/Stockholders’ Equity

During 2014, Peoples' total stockholders' equity increased primarily due to $54.4 million of common equity issued in 

connection with acquisitions completed during the year and the Private Equity Issuance of common shares which added 
$40.2 million in common equity.  Also contributing to the increase were an excess of earnings over dividends declared, and a 
recovery in the market value of available-for-sale investment securities.  Regulatory capital ratios continued to fluctuate due 
to recent acquisitions.

At December 31, 2014, capital levels for both Peoples and Peoples Bank remained substantially higher than the 

minimum amounts needed to be considered "well capitalized" under banking regulations. These higher capital levels reflect 
Peoples' desire to maintain strong capital positions to provide greater flexibility to grow the company. 

The following table details Peoples' actual risk-based capital levels and corresponding ratios at December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
Capital Amounts:
Tier 1 common
Tier 1
Total (Tier 1 and Tier 2)
Net risk-weighted assets

Capital Ratios:
Tier 1 common
Tier 1
Total (Tier 1 and Tier 2)
Tier 1 leverage

2014

2013

2012

2011

2010

$

$

241,707
241,707
261,371
1,687,968

$

$

166,217
166,217
184,457
1,338,811

$

$

160,604
160,604
176,224
1,141,938

$

$

142,521
165,121
180,053
1,111,443

$

$

133,197
194,407
209,738
1,149,587

14.32%
14.32%
15.48%
9.92%

12.42%
12.42%
13.78%
8.52%

14.06%
14.06%
15.43%
8.83%

12.82%
14.86%
16.20%
9.45%

11.59%
16.91%
18.24%
10.63%

54

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
In addition to traditional capital measurements, management uses tangible capital measures to evaluate the adequacy of 

Peoples' stockholders' equity. Such ratios represent non-GAAP financial information since their calculation removes the 
impact of intangible assets acquired through acquisitions on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.  Management believes this 
information is useful to investors since it facilitates the comparison of Peoples' operating performance, financial condition 
and trends to peers, especially those without a similar level of intangible assets to that of Peoples. Further, intangible assets 
generally are difficult to convert into cash, especially during a financial crisis, and could decrease substantially in value 
should there be deterioration in the overall franchise value.  As a result, tangible common equity represents a conservative 
measure of the capacity for a company to incur losses but remain solvent.

The following table reconciles the calculation of these non-GAAP financial measures to amounts reported in Peoples' 

Consolidated Financial Statements at December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
Tangible Equity:
Total stockholders' equity
Less: goodwill and other intangible assets
Tangible equity

Tangible Common Equity:
Tangible equity
Less: preferred stockholders' equity
Tangible common equity

Tangible Assets:
Total assets
Less: goodwill and other intangible assets
Tangible assets

Tangible Book Value per Share:
Tangible common equity
Common shares outstanding

Tangible book value per share

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

2014

2013

2012

2011

2010

340,118
109,158
230,960

230,960
—
230,960

$

$

$

$

221,553
77,603
143,950

143,950
—
143,950

$

$

$

$

221,728
68,525
153,203

153,203
—
153,203

2,567,769
109,158
2,458,611

$ 2,059,108
77,603
$ 1,981,505

$ 1,918,050
68,525
$ 1,849,525

230,960
14,836,727

$

143,950
10,605,782

$

153,203
10,547,960

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

206,657
64,475
142,182

142,182
—
142,182

1,794,161
64,475
1,729,686

142,182
10,507,124

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

230,681
64,870
165,811

165,811
38,645
127,166

1,837,985
64,870
1,773,115

127,166
10,457,327

15.57

$

13.57

$

14.52

$

13.53

$

12.16

Tangible Equity to Tangible Assets Ratio:
$
Tangible equity
$
Tangible assets

230,960
2,458,611

$
143,950
$ 1,981,505

$
153,203
$ 1,849,525

$
$

142,182
1,729,686

$
$

165,811
1,773,115

Tangible equity to tangible assets

9.39%

7.26%

8.28%

8.22%

9.35%

Tangible Common Equity to Tangible Assets Ratio:
Tangible common equity
Tangible assets

230,960
2,458,611

$
$

143,950
$
$ 1,981,505

153,203
$
$ 1,849,525

$
$

142,182
1,729,686

$
$

127,166
1,773,115

Tangible common equity to tangible assets

9.39%

7.26%

8.28%

8.22%

7.17%

During 2014, Peoples' tangible common equity to tangible assets ratio increased significantly due to recent acquisitions, 
in which common shares represented a portion of the consideration, and the Private Equity Issuance.  The reduction in 2013 
was due to the impact of assets acquired in the Ohio Commerce acquisition, which was funded solely by cash consideration, 
as well as reductions in the fair value of the available-for-sale investment securities.

55

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Future Outlook

Peoples was successful with many of the goals set for 2014, including organic loan growth and four acquisition 

announcements.  Organic loan growth exceeded expectations throughout 2014 and was the driving force behind 
improvements in Peoples' asset mix, expanding net interest margin, and robust revenue growth.  Three of the four 
acquisitions announced during 2014 were completed during the year, with the fourth, NB&T, to be closed in March 2015.  
Upon completion of NB&T, Peoples will exceed $3.2 billion in assets with 81 branch locations throughout the states of Ohio, 
West Virginia and Kentucky.  The growth in organic loans and through acquisitions has made Peoples a stronger, more 
profitable company.  Other key accomplishments included improved revenue generation from Peoples' wealth management 
and insurance operations, restored asset quality, and net demand deposit account growth. 

For 2015, Peoples will build off the momentum that was gained in 2014.  Key strategic priorities will include generating 

positive operating leverage, maintaining superior asset quality, and remaining prudent with the use of capital.  Overall, 
Peoples' key strategic objectives are to be a steady, dependable performer for its shareholders and take advantage of market 
expansion opportunities.  Peoples' long-term strategic goals include generating results in the top quartile of performance 
relative to Peoples' defined peer group and providing returns for its shareholders superior to those of its peers, regardless of 
operating conditions.

Revenue growth for 2014 was slightly better than expense growth, excluding one-time costs.  Management believes 
Peoples is positioned to grow revenue faster than expenses in 2015 and is confident this goal will be achieved.  The primary 
focus continues to be on growing revenue, rather than decreasing expenses.

For 2015, net interest margin is expected to remain stable in the low 3.50's.  Loan growth will again be the key driver in 

stabilizing asset yields, along with a continuation of the change in the asset mix.  Peoples' efficiency ratio is expected to be 
below 65%, excluding one-time costs, in the second half of 2015.  With the closing of NB&T in March, Peoples expects to 
have all related cost savings fully phased-in during the second quarter of 2015.

Peoples has the capacity to be a much bigger company.  Its experienced management team, along with its scalable 

systems, has the ability to drive meaningful revenue growth.  Thus, Peoples’ long-term goal is to widen the revenue and 
expense growth gap in future years, which should cause Peoples’ efficiency ratio to improve by 1% to 2% each year.

A major asset for Peoples is its strong fee-based businesses, such as insurance and wealth management.  In 2014, 
Peoples' fee revenue comprised 37% of its total revenue, down from 40% in 2013.  Peoples has capabilities that many banks 
in its market area lack, including some of the largest national banks, which include robust retirement plan services and 
comprehensive insurance products.  Thus, management considers Peoples to have a competitive advantage that directly 
enhances revenue growth potential.  For 2015, management will continue to strive for a diversified revenue stream that 
consists of 35% to 40% fee-based revenue to total revenue.  The achievement of this goal will be driven by continued solid 
growth in insurance and investment income, and Peoples continually seeking acquisitions opportunities of insurance and 
wealth management companies.

Even with a more diversified revenue stream than most community banks, net interest income remains a major source of 

revenue for Peoples.  Thus, Peoples' ability to grow revenue in 2015 will be impacted by the amount of net interest income 
generated.  The current outlook is mixed as to whether the Federal Reserve Board will hold short-term interest rates at their 
historically low levels throughout all of 2015, or if there will be increases in the later half of 2015.  Long-term rates could 
increase but remain more volatile than prior years.  Changes in long-term rates would affect reinvestment rates within the 
loan and investment portfolios.  Should the yield curve flatten, Peoples would have limited opportunities to offset the impact 
on asset yields with a similar reduction in funding costs.  Thus, Peoples' ability to produce meaningful loan growth remains 
the key driver for improving net interest income and margin in 2015.

Management would expect both net interest income and margin to benefit from any meaningful increase in market 
interest rates based upon the current interest rate risk profile.  However, it remains inherently difficult to predict and manage 
the future trend of Peoples' net interest income and margin due to the uncertainty surrounding the timing and magnitude of 
future interest rate changes, as well as the impact of competition for loans and deposits.

While the primary focus is on revenue growth, management intends to remain disciplined with operating expenses.  For 

2015, total non-interest expense will increase due to a full year’s impact of the 2014 acquisitions.  Outside these items, 
management will be working to limit increases in other expense areas.  However, Peoples continues to have limited control 
over some expenses, such as employee medical and pension costs.

Peoples continues to be more exposed to pension settlement charges given the frozen status of its defined benefit plan.  

The recognition of settlement charges is largely dependent upon the timing of distributions, the amount of pension benefit 
earned by the retirees, and whether the individuals elect a lump sum distribution.  For 2015, management does not anticipate 

56

to incur the volume of settlement charges incurred in 2014.  This expectation is based on normal retirement activity within 
the plan, but assumes all potential distributions are lump sum payouts.

A key to Peoples’ 2015 revenue growth goal is achieving meaningful loan growth.  Management believes period-end 
loan balances could increase by 7% to 9% in 2015, which assumes commercial loan growth of 8% to 10% and consumer loan 
growth of 3% to 5%.  Within Peoples' commercial lending activity, the primary emphasis continues to be on non-mortgage 
commercial lending opportunities and capitalizing on growth opportunities provided by the acquisitions completed and to be 
completed in early 2015.  As a result, commercial and industrial loan balances should increase at a greater rate than 
commercial real estate loan balances. Consumer lending activity is continuing to build and will remain a larger contributor to 
overall loan growth.

Peoples' strategy is to reduce the size of the investment portfolio to 25% of its total assets by year end 2015.  Consistent 

with this goal, management plans to use the cash flow generated by Peoples’ significant investment in mortgage-backed 
securities to fund new loan production.  This action would temper the overall growth in total earning assets in 2014.  
Management could adjust the size or composition of the investment portfolio in response to other factors, such as changes in 
liquidity needs and interest rate conditions.

In 2015, Peoples' funding strategy continues to emphasize growth of core deposits, such as checking and savings 

accounts, rather than higher-cost deposits.  Thus, CD balances could maintain the declining trend experienced in recent years.  
Given the expected increase in earning assets, borrowed funds would increase in 2015 to the extent earning asset growth is 
more than deposit growth.  Should this occur, management would evaluate using longer-term borrowings to match the 
duration of the assets being funded to minimize the long-term interest rate risk.

Peoples remains committed to sound underwriting and prudent risk management.  Management believes this credit 
discipline will benefit Peoples during future economic downturns.  The long-term goal is to maintain key metrics in the top-
quartile of Peoples' peer group regardless of economic conditions.  Net charge-off trends are expected to normalize in 2015 as 
the prospects of large recoveries diminish.  Management anticipates Peoples' net charge-off rate for 2015 to be near the low 
end of its long-term historical range of 0.20% to 0.30% of average loans.

For 2015, management intends to remain prudent with the level of Peoples' allowance for loan losses.  Given the 

expectation of net-charge offs for 2015, and the continued focus on consumer lending, management does not expect the level 
to drop much below its current level of 1.48% of total originated loans during 2015.  However, the level will continue to be 
based upon management's quarterly assessment of the losses inherent in the loan portfolio, and the amount of any provision 
for loan losses should be driven mostly by a combination of the net charge-off rate and loan growth.

Peoples will continue to explore market expansion opportunities in or near its current market areas during 2015.  

Management's primary focus will be on increasing market share within existing markets, while taking advantage of potential 
growth opportunities within its insurance and wealth management lines of business.  Management believes Peoples' capital 
position remains strong enough to support an active merger and acquisition strategy, and expansion of Peoples' core financial 
service businesses of banking, insurance and wealth management.  Consequently, management continues to explore 
acquisition opportunities in these activities.  In evaluating acquisition opportunities, management will balance the potential 
for earnings accretion with maintaining adequate capital levels, which could result in Peoples' common stock being the 
predominate form of consideration and/or the need for Peoples to raise capital.

Conversations with potential strategic partners are occurring on a regular basis.  The evaluation of any potential 

opportunity will favor a transaction that complements Peoples' core competencies and strategic intent, with a lesser emphasis 
being placed on geographic location or size.  Additionally, Peoples remains committed to maintaining a diversified revenue 
stream.  Peoples’ management team is prepared to act quickly should a potential opportunity arise, but will remain disciplined 
with its approach.  All transactions must be accretive by no later than the second year in order to satisfy Peoples' goal of 
improving shareholder return.  Management is optimistic regarding Peoples’ ability to complete additional acquisitions in 
2015.

Management has built a culture where it is paramount that the associates take care of customers and take care of each 
other.  Management is committed to profitable growth of the company and building long-term shareholder value. This will 
require management to remain focused on four key areas: responsible risk management; extraordinary client experience; 
profitable revenue growth; and maintaining a superior workforce.  Success will be achieved through disciplined execution of 
strategies and providing extraordinary service to Peoples' clients and communities.

57

Interest Rate Sensitivity and Liquidity

While Peoples is exposed to various business risks, the risks relating to interest rate sensitivity and liquidity are major 

risks that can materially impact future results of operations and financial condition due to their complexity and dynamic 
nature. The objective of Peoples' asset/liability management (“ALM”) function is to measure and manage these risks in order 
to optimize net interest income within the constraints of prudent capital adequacy, liquidity and safety. This objective requires 
Peoples to focus on interest rate risk exposure and adequate liquidity through its management of the mix of assets and 
liabilities, their related cash flows and the rates earned and paid on those assets and liabilities. Ultimately, the ALM function 
is intended to guide management in the acquisition and disposition of earning assets and selection of appropriate funding 
sources.

Interest Rate Risk

Interest rate risk (“IRR”) is one of the most significant risks arising in the normal course of business of financial 

services companies like Peoples. IRR is the potential for economic loss due to future interest rate changes that can 
impact the earnings stream as well as market values of financial assets and liabilities. Peoples' exposure to IRR is due 
primarily to differences in the maturity or repricing of earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities. In addition, other 
factors, such as prepayments of loans and investment securities or early withdrawal of deposits, can affect Peoples' 
exposure to IRR and increase interest costs or reduce revenue streams.

Peoples has assigned overall management of IRR to the ALCO, which has established an IRR management policy 
that sets minimum requirements and guidelines for monitoring and managing the level of IRR.  The objective of Peoples' 
IRR policy is to assist the ALCO in its evaluation of the impact of changing interest rate conditions on earnings and 
economic value of equity, as well as assist with the implementation of strategies intended to reduce Peoples' IRR.  The 
management of IRR involves either maintaining or changing the level of risk exposure by changing the repricing and 
maturity characteristics of the cash flows for specific assets or liabilities.  Additional oversight of Peoples' IRR is 
provided by the Asset Liability Management and Investment Committee of Peoples Bank's Board of Directors.   This 
committee also reviews and approves Peoples' IRR management policy at least annually.

The ALCO uses various methods to assess and monitor the current level of Peoples' IRR and the impact of potential 
strategies or other changes.  However, the ALCO predominantly relies on simulation modeling in its overall management 
of IRR since it is a dynamic measure.  Simulation modeling also estimates the impact of potential changes in interest 
rates and balance sheet structures on future earnings and projected economic value of equity.  

The modeling process starts with a base case simulation using the current balance sheet and current interest rates 
held constant for the next twenty-four months.  Alternate scenarios are prepared which simulate the impact of increasing 
and decreasing market interest rates, assuming parallel yield curve shifts.  Comparisons produced from the simulation 
data, showing the changes in net interest income from the base interest rate scenario, illustrate the risks associated with 
the current balance sheet structure.  Additional simulations, when deemed appropriate or necessary, are prepared using 
different interest rate scenarios from those used with the base case simulation and/or possible changes in balance sheet 
composition.  The additional simulations include non-parallel shifts in interest rates whereby the direction and/or 
magnitude of change of short-term interest rates is different than the changes applied to longer-term interest rates.    
Comparisons showing the earnings and economic value of equity variance from the base case are provided to the ALCO 
for review and discussion.    

The ALCO has established limits on changes in the twelve-month net interest income forecast and the economic 

value of equity from the base case.  The ALCO may establish risk tolerances for other parallel and non-parallel rate 
movements, as deemed necessary.

The following table details the current policy limits used to manage the level of Peoples' IRR:

Immediate and
Sustained Shift in
Interest Rates
 + / - 100 basis points
 + / - 200 basis points
 + / - 300 basis points

Net Interest
Income
-5%
-10%
-15%

Economic
Value of
Equity
-10%
-15%
-20%

58

The following table shows the estimated changes in net interest income and the economic value of equity based 

upon a standard, parallel shock analysis (dollars in thousands):

Increase in
Interest Rate

Estimated Increase in 
Net Interest Income

Estimated (Decrease) Increase in
Economic Value of Equity

(in Basis Points) December 31, 2014
$

300
200
100

5,600
4,848
3,235

7.3% $
6.3%
4.2%

5,473
4,494
2,885

8.9% $ (66,730)
(41,537)
7.3%
(18,026)
4.7%

December 31, 2013

December 31, 2014

(15.7)% $ (65,867)
(46,077)
(9.8)%
(23,910)
(4.2)%

December 31, 2013
(24.8)%
(17.4)%
(9.0)%

This table uses a standard, parallel shock analysis for assessing the IRR to net interest income and the economic 

value of equity.  A parallel shock means all points on the yield curve (one year, two year, three year, etc.) are 
directionally changed the same amount of basis points.  For example, 100 basis points are equal to 1%.  While 
management regularly assesses the impact of both increasing and decreasing interest rates, the table above only reflects 
the impact of upward shocks due to the fact a downward parallel shock of 100 basis points or more is not possible given 
that most short-term rates are currently less than 1%.  

Although a parallel shock table can give insight into the current direction and magnitude of IRR inherent in the 

balance sheet, interest rates do not always move in a complete parallel manner during interest rate cycles.  These 
nonparallel movements in interest rates, commonly called yield curve steepening or flattening movements, tend to occur 
during the beginning and end of an interest rate cycle, with differences in the timing, direction and magnitude of changes 
in short-term and long-term interest rates. Thus, any benefit that could occur as a result of the Federal Reserve Board 
increasing short-term interest rates in future quarters could be offset by an inverse movement in long-term interest rates.  
As a result, management conducts more advanced interest rate shock scenarios to gain a better understanding of Peoples' 
exposure to nonparallel rate shifts.

At December 31, 2014, Peoples' Consolidated Balance Sheet remained positioned for a rising interest rate 
environment, as illustrated by the potential increase in net interest income shown in the above table.  During 2014, 
Peoples became less sensitive to rising interest rates (as measured by the expected percentage change in economic value 
of equity) due to several factors. The largest factors impacting Peoples' interest rate sensitivity were an overall reduction 
in the duration of assets, changes in expected prepayment speeds in the investment portfolio and the three bank 
acquisitions completed during 2014. 

Liquidity

In addition to IRR management, another major objective of the ALCO is to maintain a sufficient level of liquidity. 
The ALCO defines liquidity as the ability to meet anticipated and unanticipated operating cash needs, loan demand and 
deposit withdrawals, without incurring a sustained negative impact on profitability.  

A primary source of liquidity for Peoples is retail deposits. Liquidity is also provided by cash generated from 

earning assets such as maturities, calls, and principal and interest payments from loans and investment securities. Peoples 
also uses various wholesale funding sources to supplement funding from customer deposits. These external sources  
provide Peoples with the ability to obtain large quantities of funds in a relatively short time period in the event of sudden 
unanticipated cash needs.  However, an over-utilization of external funding sources can expose Peoples to greater 
liquidity risk as these external sources may not be accessible during times of market stress.  Additionally, Peoples may be 
exposed to the risk associated with providing excess collateral to external funding providers, commonly referred to as 
counterparty risk.  As a result, the ALCO's liquidity management policy sets limits on the net liquidity position and the 
concentration of non-core funding sources, both wholesale funding and brokered deposits. 

In addition to external sources of funding, Peoples considers certain types of deposits to be less stable or "volatile 
funding".  These deposits include special money market products, large CDs and public funds.  Peoples has established 
volatility factors for these various deposit products, and the liquidity management policy establishes a limit on the total 
level of volatile funding.  Additionally, Peoples measures the maturities of external sources of funding for periods of 1 
month, 3 months, 6 months and 12 months and has established policy limits for the amounts maturing in each of these 
periods.  The purpose of these limits is to minimize exposure to what is commonly termed as rollover risk.

An additional strategy used by Peoples in the management of liquidity risk is maintaining a targeted level of liquid 
assets.  These are assets that can be converted into cash in a relatively short period of time.  Management defines liquid 
assets as unencumbered cash, including cash on deposit at the Federal Reserve Bank and the market value of U.S. 
government and agency securities that are not pledged.  Excluded from this definition are pledged securities, non-

59

 
government and agency securities, municipal securities and loans.  Management has established a minimum level of 
liquid assets in the liquidity management policy, which is expressed as a percentage of loans and unfunded loan 
commitments.   Peoples also has established a policy limit around the level of liquefiable assets, also expressed as a 
percentage of loans and unfunded loan commitments.  Liquefiable assets are defined as liquid assets plus the market 
value of unpledged securities not included in the liquid asset measurement. 

An essential element in the management of liquidity risk is a forecast of the sources and uses of anticipated cash 

flows.  On a monthly basis, Peoples forecasts sources and uses of cash for the next twelve months.  To assist in the 
management of liquidity, management has established a liquidity coverage ratio, which is defined as the total sources of 
cash divided by the total uses of cash.  A ratio of greater than 1.0 times indicates that forecasted sources of cash are 
adequate to fund forecasted uses of cash.  The liquidity management policy establishes a minimum limit of 1.0 times.  As 
of December 31, 2014, Peoples had a ratio of 1.80 times, which was within policy limits.  Peoples also forecasts 
secondary or contingent sources of cash, and this includes external sources of funding and liquid assets.  These sources 
of cash would be required if and when the forecasted liquidity coverage ratio dropped below the policy limit of 1.0 times.  
An additional liquidity measurement used by management includes the total forecasted sources of cash and the 
contingent sources of cash divided by the forecasted uses of cash.  Management has established a minimum ratio of 3.0 
times for this liquidity management policy limit.  As of December 31, 2014, Peoples had a ratio of 7.38 times, which was 
within policy limits.

Disruptions in the sources and uses of cash can occur which can drastically alter the actual cash flows and negatively 

impact Peoples' ability to access internal and external sources of cash.  Such disruptions might occur due to increased 
withdrawals of deposits, increases in the funding required for loan commitments, a decrease in the ability to access 
external funding sources and other forces that would increase the need for funding and limit Peoples' ability to access 
needed funds.  As a result, Peoples maintains a liquidity contingency funding plan ("LCFP") that considers various 
degrees of disruptions and develops action plans around these scenarios.  

Peoples' LCFP identifies scenarios where funding disruptions might occur and creates scenarios of varying degrees 

of severity.  The disruptions considered include an increase in funding of unfunded loan commitments, unanticipated 
withdrawals of deposits, decreases in the renewal of maturing CDs and reductions in cash earnings.  Additionally, the 
LCFP creates stress scenarios where access to external funding sources, or contingency funding, is suddenly limited 
which includes a significant increase in the margin requirements where securities or loans are pledged, limited access to 
funding from other banks and limited access to funding from the FHLB and the Federal Reserve Bank.  Peoples' LCFP 
scenarios include a base scenario, a mild stress scenario, a moderate stress scenario and a severe stress scenario.  Each of 
these is defined as to the severity and action plans are developed around each.

Liquidity management also requires the monitoring of risk indicators that may alert the ALCO to a developing 
liquidity situation or crisis.  Early detection of stress scenarios allows Peoples to take actions to help mitigate the impact 
to Peoples Bank's business operations.  The LCFP contains various indicators, termed key risk indicators ("KRI's") that 
are monitored on a monthly basis, at a minimum.  The KRI's include both internal and external indicators and include 
loan delinquency levels, classified and watch list loan levels, non-performing loans to loans and to total assets, the loan 
to deposit ratio, the level of net non-core funding dependence, the level of contingency funding sources, the liquidity 
coverage ratio, changes in regulatory capital levels, forecasted operating loss and negative media concerning Peoples, 
irrational competitor pricing that persists and an increase in rates for external funding sources.  The LCFP establishes 
levels that define each of these KRI's under base, mild, moderate and severe scenarios.

The LCFP is reviewed and updated on at least an annual basis by the ALCO and the Asset Liability Management 
and Investment Committee of Peoples Bank's Board of Directors.  Additionally, testing of the LCFP is required on an 
annual basis.  Various stress scenarios and the related actions are simulated according to the LCFP.  The results are 
reviewed and discussed and changes or revisions are made to the LCFP accordingly.  Additionally, every two years, the 
LCFP is subjected to a third-party review for effectiveness and regulatory compliance. 

Overall, management believes the current balance of cash and cash equivalents, and anticipated cash flows from the 

investment portfolio, along with the availability of other funding sources, will allow Peoples to meet anticipated cash 
obligations, as well as special needs and off-balance sheet commitments.

60

Off-Balance Sheet Activities and Contractual Obligations

Peoples routinely engages in activities that involve, to varying degrees, elements of risk that are not reflected in whole or 

in part in the Consolidated Financial Statements. These activities are part of Peoples' normal course of business and include 
traditional off-balance sheet credit-related financial instruments, interest rate contracts and commitments to make additional 
capital contributions in low-income housing tax credit investments.

The following is a summary of Peoples’ significant off-balance sheet activities and contractual obligations.  Detailed 
information regarding these activities and obligations can be found in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements as 
follows:

Activity or Obligation
Off-balance sheet credit-related financial instruments

Operating lease obligations

Long-term debt obligations

Note
14

5

9

Traditional off-balance sheet credit-related financial instruments are primarily commitments to extend credit and standby 

letters of credit.  These activities are necessary to meet the financing needs of customers and could require Peoples to make 
cash payments to third parties in the event certain specified future events occur.  The contractual amounts represent the extent 
of Peoples’ exposure in these off-balance sheet activities.  However, since certain off-balance sheet commitments, particularly 
standby letters of credit, are expected to expire or only partially be used, the total amount of commitments does not 
necessarily represent future cash requirements.

Peoples continues to lease certain facilities and equipment under noncancellable operating leases with terms providing 
for fixed monthly payments over periods generally ranging from two to ten years.  Several of Peoples’ leased facilities are 
inside retail shopping centers or office buildings and, as a result, are not available for purchase.  Management believes these 
leased facilities increase Peoples’ visibility within its markets and afford sales associates additional access to current and 
potential clients.

For certain acquisitions, often those involving insurance businesses and wealth management books of businesses, a 
portion of the consideration is contingent upon revenue metrics being achieved.  US GAAP requires that the amounts be 
recorded upon acquisition based on the best estimate of the future amounts to be paid at the time of acquisition.  Any 
subsequent adjustment to the estimate is recorded in earnings.  Based on the acquisitions completed to date, management 
does not expect contingent consideration to have a material impact on Peoples' future performance.

The following table details the aggregate amount of future payments Peoples is required to make under certain 

contractual obligations as of December 31, 2014:

(Dollars in thousands)
Long-term debt (1)
Operating leases
Time deposits
Pension benefits
Contingent consideration related to acquisitions (2)

Total

$

$

Total
179,083 $
2,403
472,254
101
1,082
654,923 $

Less than 1
year

Payments due by period

1-3 years

3-5 years

More than
5 years

14,377 $
786
240,709
101
505
256,478 $

22,087 $
1,124
163,135
—
577
186,923 $

87,933 $
489
68,012
—
—

156,434 $

54,686
4
398
—
—
55,088

(1) Amounts reflect solely the minimum required principal payments.
(2) Amounts assume projected revenue metrics are achieved.

Management does not anticipate Peoples’ current off-balance sheet activities will have a material impact on its future 

results of operations and financial condition based on historical experience and recent trends.

Effects of Inflation on Financial Statements

Substantially all of Peoples’ assets relate to banking and are monetary in nature.  As a result, inflation does not impact 

Peoples to the same degree as companies in capital-intensive industries in a replacement cost environment.  During a period 
of rising prices, a net monetary asset position results in a loss in purchasing power and conversely a net monetary liability 
position results in an increase in purchasing power.  The opposite would be true during a period of decreasing prices.  In the 

61

 
 
banking industry, monetary assets typically exceed monetary liabilities.  The current monetary policy targeting low levels of 
inflation has resulted in relatively stable price levels.  Therefore, inflation has had little impact on Peoples’ net assets.

ITEM 7A.  QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

Please refer to the section captioned “Interest Rate Sensitivity and Liquidity” under "ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S 
DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS" of this Form 10-K, 
which is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 8.  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

The Consolidated Financial Statements and accompanying notes, and the report of independent registered public 

accounting firm, are set forth immediately following "ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION" of this Form 10-K.

ITEM 9.  CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING FINANCIAL 

DISCLOSURE

No response required.

ITEM 9A.  CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Peoples’ management, with the participation of Peoples’ President and Chief Executive Officer and Peoples’ Executive 

Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer, has evaluated the effectiveness of Peoples’ disclosure controls and 
procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Exchange Act) as of December 31, 2014.  Based upon that evaluation, 
Peoples’ President and Chief Executive Officer and Peoples’ Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer 
have concluded that:

(a) 

(b) 

(c) 

information required to be disclosed by Peoples in this Form 10-K and other reports Peoples files or 
submits under the Exchange Act would be accumulated and communicated to Peoples’ management, 
including its President and Chief Executive Officer and its Executive Vice President, Chief Financial 
Officer and Treasurer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure;

information required to be disclosed by Peoples in this Form 10-K and other reports Peoples files or 
submits under the Exchange Act would be recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time 
periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms; and

Peoples’ disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end of the period covered by this Form 
10-K.

Management's Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

The “Report of Management's Assessment of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting” required by Item 308(a) of 

SEC Regulation S-K is included on page 63 of this Form 10-K.

Attestation Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

The “Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on Effectiveness of Internal Control Over Financial 

Reporting” required by Item 308(b) of SEC Regulation S-K is included on page 64 of this Form 10-K.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

There were no changes in Peoples’ internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the 
Exchange Act) that occurred during Peoples’ fiscal quarter ended December 31, 2014, that have materially affected, or are 
reasonably likely to materially affect, Peoples’ internal control over financial reporting.

ITEM 9B.  OTHER INFORMATION

None.

62

Report of Management's Assessment of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

Peoples' management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, 
as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.  Peoples' internal 
control over financial reporting has been designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial 
reporting and the preparation, integrity, and fair presentation of Peoples' Consolidated Financial Statements for external 
purposes in accordance with United States generally accepted accounting principles.  

With the supervision and participation of its President and Chief Executive Officer and its Executive Vice President, 
Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer, management evaluated the effectiveness of Peoples' internal control over 
financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, using the Internal Control-Integrated Framework set forth by the 
Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 Framework).

No matter how well designed, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect all misstatements.  
Projection of the evaluation of effectiveness to future periods is subject to risks, including but not limited to (a) controls 
may become inadequate due to changes in conditions; (b) a deterioration may occur in the degree of compliance with 
policies or procedures; and (c) the possibility of control circumvention or override occurring, any of which may lead to 
misstatements due to undetected error or fraud.  Effective internal control over financial reporting can provide only a 
reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and reporting.

Management assessed the effectiveness of Peoples' internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, 
and, based on this assessment, has concluded Peoples' internal control over financial reporting is effective as of that 
date.

Peoples' independent registered public accounting firm, Ernst & Young LLP has audited the Consolidated Financial 
Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and has issued an attestation report on Peoples' internal 
control over financial reporting.

By: /s/ CHARLES W. SULERZYSKI
Charles W. Sulerzyski
President and Chief Executive Officer  

By: /s/ EDWARD G. SLOANE
Edward G. Sloane
Executive Vice President,
Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer

63

 
 
 
 
 
 
Report of Ernst & Young, Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on Effectiveness of Internal Control Over 
Financial Reporting

The Audit Committee of the Board of Directors and Shareholders
Peoples Bancorp Inc. 

We have audited Peoples Bancorp Inc. and subsidiaries’ internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 
2014, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring 
Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework) (the COSO criteria). Peoples Bancorp Inc.’s management 
is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the 
effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying Report of Management’s 
Assessment of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the company’s 
internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. 

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

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

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

In our opinion, Peoples Bancorp Inc. and subsidiaries maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over 
financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, based on the COSO criteria.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United 
States), the consolidated balance sheets of Peoples Bancorp Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, and 
the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of 
the three years in the period ended December 31, 2014 of Peoples Bancorp Inc. and subsidiaries and our report dated 
February 26, 2015 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon. 

Charleston, West Virginia
February 26, 2015 

64

Report of Ernst and Young, Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on Consolidated Financial Statements

The Audit Committee of the Board of Directors and the Shareholders 
Peoples Bancorp Inc.

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Peoples Bancorp Inc. and subsidiaries as of 
December 31, 2014 and 2013, and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, stockholders’ 
equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2014.  These financial statements are 
the responsibility of the Company's management.  Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial 
statements based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United 
States).  Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the 
financial statements are free of material misstatement.  An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting 
the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements.  An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used 
and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.  We 
believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial 
position of Peoples Bancorp Inc. and subsidiaries at December 31, 2014 and 2013, and the consolidated results of their 
operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2014, in conformity with 
U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United 
States), Peoples Bancorp Inc.’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, based on criteria 
established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the 
Treadway Commission (2013 framework) and our report dated February 26, 2015 expressed an unqualified opinion 
thereon.

Charleston, West Virginia
February 26, 2015 

65

$

$

$

December 31,

2014

2013

42,230 $
19,224
61,454

36,016
17,804
53,820

636,880

606,108

48,468

49,222

28,311
713,659
1,620,898
(17,881)
1,603,017
4,374
40,335
98,562
10,596
35,772
2,567,769 $

493,162 $

1,439,912
1,933,074
88,277
179,083
27,217
2,227,651

25,196
680,526
1,196,234
(17,065)
1,179,169
1,688
29,809
70,520
7,083
36,493
2,059,108

409,891
1,170,867
1,580,758
113,590
121,826
21,381
1,837,555

—

—

265,742

168,869

90,391
(1,301)

(14,714)

80,898
(13,244)

(14,970)

340,118
2,567,769 $

221,553
2,059,108

$

PEOPLES BANCORP INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(Dollars in thousands)
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents:

Cash and due from banks
Interest-bearing deposits in other banks
Total cash and cash equivalents

Available-for-sale investment securities, at fair value (amortized cost of

$632,967 at December 31, 2014 and $621,126 at December 31, 2013)

Held-to-maturity investment securities, at amortized cost (fair value of $48,442

at December 31, 2014 and $46,094 at December 31, 2013)

Other investment securities, at cost
Total investment securities

Loans, net of deferred fees and costs
Allowance for loan losses

Net loans

Loans held for sale
Bank premises and equipment, net
Goodwill
Other intangible assets
Other assets

Total assets

Liabilities
Deposits:
Non-interest-bearing
Interest-bearing

Total deposits

Short-term borrowings
Long-term borrowings
Accrued expenses and other liabilities

Total liabilities
Stockholders’ Equity
Preferred stock, no par value, 50,000 shares authorized, no shares issued at

December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013

Common stock, no par value, 24,000,000 shares authorized, 15,426,973 shares
issued at December 31, 2014 and 11,206,576 shares issued at December 31,
2013, including shares in treasury

Retained earnings
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of deferred income taxes
Treasury stock, at cost, 590,246 shares at December 31, 2014 and 600,794

shares at December 31, 2013
Total stockholders’ equity

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

See Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

66

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
PEOPLES BANCORP INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
Interest Income:
Interest and fees on loans
Interest and dividends on taxable investment securities
Interest on tax-exempt investment securities
Other interest income
Total interest income

Interest Expense:
Interest on deposits
Interest on short-term borrowings
Interest on long-term borrowings
Interest on junior subordinated debentures held by subsidiary trust

Total interest expense
Net interest income

Provision for (recovery of) loan losses

Net interest income after provision for (recovery of) loan losses

Other Income:
Insurance income
Deposit account service charges
Trust and investment income
Electronic banking income
Mortgage banking income
Net gain on investment securities
Net loss on asset disposals and other transactions
Other non-interest income

Total other income

Other Expenses:
Salaries and employee benefit costs
Net occupancy and equipment
Professional fees
Electronic banking expense
Data processing and software
Marketing expense
Communication expense
Amortization of other intangible assets
Franchise tax
FDIC insurance
Foreclosed real estate and other loan expenses
Other non-interest expense

Total other expenses

Income before income taxes
Income tax expense
Net income
Earnings per common share - basic
Earnings per common share - diluted
Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding - basic
Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding - diluted

$
$
$

 See Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

67

2014

2013

2012

$

61,541 $
16,840
1,810
9
80,200

48,522 $
16,853
1,600
96
67,071

48,238
19,778
1,434
20
69,470

9,059
74
3,949
1,913
14,995
54,475
(4,716)
59,191

9,844
8,965
6,129
5,955
2,877
3,548
(4,326)
1,201
34,193

33,426
6,094
4,370
3,342
1,979
2,682
1,285
509
1,486
1,002
884
6,415
63,474
29,910
9,525
20,385
1.92
1.92
10,527,885
10,528,286

6,106
146
4,442
—
10,694
69,506
339
69,167

13,604
9,173
7,685
6,642
1,237
398
(431)
1,712
40,020

46,593
7,839
5,649
4,529
2,424
2,299
1,642
1,428
1,392
1,260
789
9,165
85,009
24,178
7,494
16,684 $
1.36 $
1.35 $

7,052
114
4,520
—
11,686
55,385
(4,410)
59,795

12,201
8,764
7,122
6,191
1,759
489
(155)
1,183
37,554

36,472
6,840
4,207
3,586
2,012
2,301
1,339
807
1,643
1,036
654
7,368
68,265
29,084
11,510
17,574 $
1.65 $
1.63 $

12,183,352
12,306,224

10,581,222
10,679,417

PEOPLES BANCORP INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(Dollars in thousands)
Net income
Other comprehensive income (loss):

Available-for-sale investment securities:
Gross unrealized holding gain (loss) arising in the period

Related tax (expense) benefit

Less: reclassification adjustment for net gain included in net income

Related tax expense

Net effect on other comprehensive income (loss)

Defined benefit plans:
Net (loss) gain arising during the period
  Related tax benefit (expense)
Amortization of unrecognized loss and service cost on benefit plans

Related tax expense

Recognition of loss due to settlement and curtailment

Related tax expense

Net effect on other comprehensive income (loss)
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax

Total comprehensive income

See Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

2014

2013

2012

$

16,684 $

17,574 $

20,385

19,326
(6,764)
398
(139)
12,303

(2,083)
729
129
(45)
1,400
(490)
(360)
11,943
28,627 $

(25,130)
8,795
489
(171)
(16,653)

3,788
(1,326)
182
(64)
270
(95)
2,755
(13,898)

3,676 $

2,706
(947)
3,548
(1,242)
(547)

(1,320)
462
161
(57)
835
(292)
(211)
(758)
19,627

$

68

PEOPLES BANCORP INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

(Dollars in thousands)

Balance, December 31, 2011

Net income

Other comprehensive loss, net of tax

Repurchase of common stock warrant

Cash dividends declared

Tax benefit from exercise of stock options

Reissuance of treasury stock for deferred

compensation plan for Boards of Directors

Purchase of treasury stock

Common shares issued under dividend reinvestment

plan

Common shares issued under compensation plan for

Board of Directors

Stock-based compensation expense

Balance, December 31, 2012

Net income

Other comprehensive loss, net of tax

Cash dividends declared

Reissuance of treasury stock for deferred

compensation plan for Boards of Directors

Purchase of treasury stock

Common shares issued under dividend reinvestment

plan

Common shares issued under compensation plan for

Board of Directors

Stock-based compensation expense

Balance, December 31, 2013

Net income

Other comprehensive income, net of tax

Cash dividends declared

Tax benefit from exercise of stock options

79

Reissuance of treasury stock for common stock option

exercises

Tax benefit from exercise of stock options

85

Reissuance of treasury stock for deferred

compensation plan for Boards of Directors

Reissuance of treasury stock for common stock awards

(10)

Purchase of treasury stock

Common shares issued under dividend reinvestment

plan

Common shares issued under compensation plan for

Board of Directors

Stock-based compensation expense

Issuance of common shares related to acquisitions:

Midwest Bancshares, Inc.

Ohio Heritage Bancorp, Inc.

North Akron Savings Bank

Common shares issued to institutional investors in

private placement

409

(14)

1,813

6,305

32,017

16,106

40,162

Common
Stock

Retained
Earnings

Accumulated Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)

$ 166,969 $

53,580 $

1,412 $

Total
Stockholders'
Equity

Treasury
Stock
(15,304) $

20,385

(4,807)

(758)

(1,201)

16

357

(44)

942

163

(156)

174

206,657

20,385

(758)

(1,201)

(4,807)

16

163

(156)

357

130

942

$ 167,039 $

69,158 $

654 $

(15,123) $

221,728

423

(34)

1,362

$ 168,869 $

80,898 $

(13,244) $

(14,970) $

221,553

17,574

(5,834)

(13,898)

17,574

(13,898)

(5,834)

79

168

(228)

423

179

1,362

168

(228)

213

16,684

(7,191)

11,943

72

175

10

(520)

221

298

16,684

11,943

(7,191)

72

85

175

—

(520)

409

207

2,111

6,305

32,017

16,106

40,162

Balance, December 31, 2014

$ 265,742 $

90,391 $

(1,301) $

(14,714) $

340,118  

 See Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

69

PEOPLES BANCORP INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Dollars in thousands)
Operating activities:
Net income
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:

2014

2013

2012

$

16,684 $

17,574 $

20,385

Depreciation, amortization, and accretion, net
Provision for (recovery of) loan losses
Bank owned life insurance income
Net gain on investment securities
(Gain) loss on debt extinguishment
Loans originated for sale
Proceeds from sales of loans
Net gains on sales of loans
Deferred income tax expense
(Decrease) increase in accrued expenses
Decrease in interest receivable
Excess tax (benefit) expense from share-based payments
Other, net

Net cash provided by operating activities

Investing activities:
Available-for-sale investment securities:

Purchases
Proceeds from sales
Proceeds from principal payments, calls and prepayments

Held-to-maturity investment securities:

Purchases
Proceeds from principal payments

Net increase in loans
Net expenditures for premises and equipment
Proceeds from sales of other real estate owned
Proceeds from bank owned life insurance
Business acquisitions, net of cash received
Return of (investment in) limited partnership and tax credit funds

Net cash used in investing activities

Financing activities:
Net increase in non-interest-bearing deposits
Net (decrease) increase in interest-bearing deposits
Net (decrease) increase in short-term borrowings
Proceeds from long-term borrowings
Payments on long-term borrowings
Redemption of junior subordinated debentures
Repurchase of common stock warrant
Cash dividends paid on common shares
Purchase of treasury stock
Proceeds from issuance of common shares
Excess tax benefit from share-based payments

Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

Supplemental cash flow information:
     Interest paid
     Income taxes paid

See Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

70

13,174
339
(106)
(398)
(67)
(51,458)
49,218
(943)
3,835
(631)
139
(85)
1,794
31,495

16,110
(4,410)
(56)
(489)
—
(68,323)
74,049
(1,544)
4,627
(13)
313
(79)
2,705
40,464

18,765
(4,716)
(40)
(3,548)
4,144
(132,714)
131,040
(2,746)
4,521
2,345
462
16
3,340
41,254

(143,184)
108,092
79,830

(223,979)
125,658
99,372

(271,520)
113,756
140,470

(1,017)
1,325
(76,100)
(7,105)
219
6,322
17,081
374
(14,163)

(5,216)
885
(109,609)
(6,604)
1,036
43,100
(4,536)
(120)
(80,013)

18,367
(26,713)
(29,373)
5,269
(10,288)
—
—
(6,767)
(520)
40,242
85
(9,698)
7,634
53,820
61,454 $

61,935
(84,344)
65,821
—
(7,025)
—
—
(5,419)
(228)
8
79
30,827
(8,722)
62,542
53,820 $

(40,352)
11,188
(16,884)
(4,530)
1,813
—
(3,321)
(187)
(69,567)

63,437
38,319
(3,874)
24,000
(40,517)
(23,668)
(1,201)
(4,457)
(156)
6
16
51,905
23,592
38,950
62,542

10,766 $
6,726 $

11,839 $
7,473 $

15,570
5,563  

$

$
$

PEOPLES BANCORP INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Peoples Bancorp Inc. is a financial holding company that offers a full range of financial services and products, including 
commercial and retail banking, insurance, brokerage and trust services, through its principal operating subsidiary, Peoples Bank, 
National Association (“Peoples Bank”).  Services are provided through 59 financial service locations and 58 automated teller 
machines in Ohio, West Virginia and Kentucky, as well as internet-based and mobile banking.

Note 1.   Summary of Significant Accounting Policies 

The accounting and reporting policies of Peoples Bancorp Inc. and Subsidiaries (“Peoples” refers to Peoples Bancorp Inc. 

and its consolidated subsidiaries collectively, except where the context indicates the reference relates solely to Peoples 
Bancorp Inc.) conform to generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“US GAAP”) and to 
general practices within the banking industry.  The preparation of the financial statements in conformity with US GAAP 
requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and 
accompanying notes.  Actual results could differ from those estimates.  Certain items in prior financial statements have been 
reclassified to conform to the current presentation, which had no impact on net income, comprehensive income or loss, net 
cash provided by operating activities or stockholders' equity.

The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed in the preparation of the financial statements: 

Consolidation: Peoples' Consolidated Financial Statements include subsidiaries in which Peoples has a controlling 
financial interest, principally defined as owning a voting interest greater than 50%.  In addition, entities not controlled by 
voting interest or in which the equity investors do not bear the residual economic risks, but for which Peoples is the 
primary beneficiary are also consolidated.

The Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of Peoples and its consolidated subsidiaries, Peoples 

Bank and Peoples Investment Company, along with their wholly-owned subsidiaries.  All significant intercompany 
accounts and transactions have been eliminated.

Cash and Cash Equivalents: Cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand, balances due from other banks, interest-
bearing deposits in other banks, Federal Funds sold and other short-term investments with original maturities of ninety 
days or less.  Included in interest-bearing deposits in other banks were $3.5 million and $3.0 million in funds at 
December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, which were being used as collateral and not available for withdrawal.

Investment Securities: Investment securities are recorded initially at cost, which includes premiums and discounts if 
purchased at other than par or face value.  Peoples amortizes premiums and accretes discounts as an adjustment to interest 
income on a level yield basis.  The cost of investment securities sold, and any resulting gain or loss, is based on the 
specific identification method and recognized as of the trade date.

Management determines the appropriate classification of investment securities at the time of purchase.  Held-to-
maturity securities are those securities that Peoples has the positive intent and ability to hold to maturity and are recorded 
at amortized cost.  Available-for-sale securities are those securities that would be available to be sold in the future in 
response to Peoples' liquidity needs, changes in market interest rates, and asset-liability management strategies, among 
other considerations.  Available-for-sale securities are reported at fair value, with unrealized holding gains and losses 
reported in stockholders' equity as a separate component of other comprehensive income or loss, net of applicable 
deferred income taxes.    

Certain restricted equity securities that do not have readily determinable fair values and for which Peoples does not 

exercise significant influence, are carried at cost.  These cost method securities are reported as other investment securities 
on the Consolidated Balance Sheets and consist solely of shares of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Cincinnati (the 
“FHLB”), the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland (the "FRB") and a capital investment in West Virginia Bankers 
Insurance.

Management systematically evaluates investment securities for other-than-temporary declines in fair value on a 

quarterly basis.  This analysis requires management to consider various factors, which include (1) the duration and 
magnitude of the decline in value, (2) the financial condition of the issuer or issuers, and (3) the structure of the security.  

An impairment loss is recognized in earnings only when (1) Peoples intends to sell the debt security, (2) it is more 
likely than not that Peoples will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis, or (3) Peoples 

71

does not expect to recover the entire amortized cost basis of the security.  In situations where Peoples intends to sell or 
when it is more likely than not that Peoples will be required to sell the security, the entire impairment loss must be 
recognized in earnings.  In all other situations, only the portion of the impairment loss representing the credit loss must be 
recognized in earnings, with the remaining portion being recognized in stockholders' equity as a component of 
accumulated comprehensive income, net of deferred taxes.

Fair Value Measurements: The measurement of fair value under US GAAP uses a hierarchy intended to maximize the 
use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs.  This hierarchy uses three levels of inputs to 
measure the fair value of assets and liabilities as follows:

Level 1: Quoted prices in active exchange markets for identical assets or liabilities; also includes certain U.S. 
Treasury and other U.S. government and agency securities actively traded in over-the-counter markets.

Level 2: Observable inputs other than Level 1 including quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities, quoted prices in 
less active markets, or other observable inputs that can be corroborated by observable market data; also includes 
derivative contracts whose value is determined using a pricing model with observable market inputs or can be derived 
principally from or corroborated by observable market data.  This category generally includes certain U.S. 
government and agency securities, corporate debt securities, derivative instruments, and residential mortgage loans 
held for sale.

Level 3: Unobservable inputs supported by little or no market activity for financial instruments whose value is 
determined using pricing models, discounted cash flow methodologies, or similar techniques, as well as instruments 
for which the determination of fair value requires significant management judgment or estimation; also includes 
observable inputs for single dealer nonbinding quotes not corroborated by observable market data. This category 
generally includes certain private equity investments, retained interests from securitizations, and certain collateralized 
debt obligations.

Securities Sold Under Agreements to Repurchase: Peoples enters into sales of securities under agreements to repurchase 
(“Repurchase Agreements”) with customers and other financial service companies, which are considered financings.  As 
such, these obligations are recorded as a liability on the Consolidated Balance Sheets and disclosed in Notes 8 and 9.  
Securities pledged as collateral under Repurchase Agreements are included in investment securities on the Consolidated 
Balance Sheets and are disclosed in Note 3.  The fair value of the collateral pledged to a third party is continually 
monitored and additional collateral is pledged or returned, as deemed appropriate.

Loans: Loans originated that Peoples has the positive intent and ability to hold for the foreseeable future or to maturity or 
payoff are reported at the principal balance outstanding, net of deferred loan fees and costs and an allowance for loan 
losses.  The foreseeable future is based upon current market conditions and business strategies, as well as balance sheet 
management and liquidity.  As the conditions change, so may management's view of the foreseeable future.  Net deferred 
loan costs were $2.4 million and $2.3 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

A loan is considered impaired when information and events indicate it is probable that collection of all contractual 
principal and interest payments is doubtful.  Impairment is evaluated in total for smaller-balance loans of a similar nature, 
primarily consumer and residential real estate loans, and on an individual loan basis for all loans to borrowers with an 
aggregate unpaid principal balance in excess of $1 million.  Peoples typically places any loan deemed to be impaired on 
nonaccrual status and allocates a specific portion of the allowance for loan losses, if necessary, to reduce the net carrying 
value of the loan to its estimated net realizable value.  Impaired loans, or portions thereof, are charged off when deemed 
uncollectable.  Upon detection of the reduced ability of a borrower to meet cash flow obligations, consumer and 
residential real estate loans typically are charged down to the net realizable value, with the residual balance placed on 
nonaccrual status.  

Loans acquired in a business combination that have evidence of deterioration of credit quality, commonly referred to 

as "purchase credit impaired" loans, since origination and for which it is probable, at acquisition, that Peoples will be 
unable to collect all contractually required payments receivable are initially recorded at fair value (the present value of the 
amounts expected to be collected) with no valuation allowance.  The difference between the undiscounted cash flows 
expected at acquisition and the investment in the loan is recognized as interest income on a level-yield method over the 
life of the loan.  Contractually required payments for interest and principal that exceed the undiscounted cash flows 
expected at acquisition are not recognized.  Over the life of these acquired loans, management continues to monitor each 
acquired purchased credit impaired loan portfolio for changes in credit quality.  Increases in expected cash flows 
subsequent to acquisition are recognized prospectively over their remaining life as a yield adjustment on the loans.  
Subsequent decreases in expected cash flows are recognized as impairment, with the amount of the expected loss included 
in management's evaluation of the appropriateness of the allowance for loan losses.  These purchase credit impaired loans 
are considered to be accruing and performing even though collection of contractual payments on loans may be in doubt, as 
income continues to be accreted as long as expected cash flows can be reasonably estimated.

72

Loans acquired in a business combination that are not impaired are recorded at fair value, and the difference between 

the acquisition date fair value and the contractual amounts due at the acquisition date represents the discounts (or 
premiums) to a loan's cost basis and are accreted (or amortized) to interest income over the the loan's remaining life using 
the level yield method.  Subsequent to the acquisition date, the methods utilized to estimate the required allowance for 
loan losses for these loans is similar to originated loans, however, Peoples records a provision for loan losses only when 
the required allowance exceeds the remaining discount.

Loans Held-for-Sale: Loans originated and intended to be sold in the secondary market, generally one-to-four family 
residential loans, are carried at the lower of cost or estimated fair value determined on an aggregate basis.  Gains and 
losses on sales of loans held for sale are included in mortgage banking income.

Loans originated with the intent to be held in our portfolio are subsequently transferred to held-for-sale when a 
decision is made to sell these loans. At the time of a loan's transfer to the held-for-sale classification, the loan is recorded 
at the lower of cost or its fair value.  Any reduction in the loan's value is reflected as a write-down of the recorded 
investment resulting in a new cost basis, with a corresponding charge against the allowance for loan losses.  If the fair 
value of a loan classified as held-for-sale in subsequent periods is less than its cost basis, the carrying value of the loan is 
adjusted accordingly, with the corresponding loss recognized in earnings. 

Peoples enters into interest rate lock commitments with borrowers and best efforts commitments with investors on 
loans originated for sale into the secondary markets to manage the inherent interest rate and pricing risk associated with 
selling loans.  The interest rate lock commitments generally terminate once the loan is funded, the lock period expires or 
the borrower decides not to contract for the loan.  The best efforts commitments generally terminate once the loan is sold, 
the commitment period expires or the borrower decides not to contract for the loan.  These commitments are considered 
derivatives which are generally accounted for by recognizing their estimated fair value on the Consolidated Balance 
Sheets as either a freestanding asset or a freestanding liability.  The valuation of such commitments does not consider 
expected cash flows related to the servicing of the future loan.  Management has determined these derivatives do not have 
a material effect on Peoples' financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Allowance for Loan Losses: The allowance for loan losses is a valuation reserve established through provisions for loan 
losses charged against income.  The allowance for loan losses is maintained at a level that management deems sufficient 
to absorb probable losses inherent in the loan portfolio.  Loans deemed to be uncollectable are charged against the 
allowance for loan losses, while recoveries of previously charged-off amounts are credited to the allowance for loan 
losses.   

The allowance for loan losses is comprised of specific valuation allowances for loans evaluated individually for 
impairment and general allocations for pools of homogeneous loans with similar risk characteristics and trends.  Peoples' 
homogenous loan pools include similarly risk-graded commercial and industrial loans, similarly risk-graded commercial 
real estate loans, real estate construction loans (both commercial and residential), residential real estate loans, consumer 
home equity loans and other consumer loans.  Management's evaluation of the appropriateness of the allowance for loan 
losses and the related provision for loan losses is based upon a quarterly analysis of the portfolio.  While portions of the 
allowance for loan losses may be allocated to specific loans, the entire allowance for loan losses is available for any loan 
charged off by management.

The allowance for loan losses related to specific loans is based on management's estimate of potential losses on 
impaired loans as determined by (1) the present value of expected future cash flows, (2) the fair value of collateral if the 
loan is determined to be collateral dependent, or (3) the loan's observable market price.  The general allocations to specific 
loan pools are based on the historical loss rates for specific loan types and the internal risk grade, if applicable, adjusted 
for both internal and external qualitative risk factors.  The calculation of historical loss rates for pools of similar loans 
with similar characteristics is based upon the proportion of actual charge-offs experienced to the total population of loans 
in the pool. The historical loss rates are periodically updated based on actual charge-off experience.  The qualitative 
factors considered by management include, among other factors, (1) changes in local and national economic conditions, 
(2) changes in asset quality, (3) changes in loan portfolio volume, (4) the composition and concentrations of credit, (5) the 
impact of competition on loan structuring and pricing, (6) the impact of interest rate changes on portfolio risk, and (7) 
effectiveness of Peoples' loan policies, procedures and internal controls.  The total allowance established for each 
homogenous loan pool represents the product of the historical loss rate and the total dollar amount of the loans in the pool.  

Peoples categorizes loans involving commercial borrowers into risk categories based upon an established grading 
matrix.  This system is used to manage the risk within its commercial lending activities, evaluate changes in the overall 
credit quality of the loan portfolio and evaluate the appropriateness of the allowance for loan losses.  Loan grades are 
assigned at the time a new loan or lending commitment is extended by Peoples and may be changed at any time when 
circumstances warrant.  Peoples reviews, at least annually, all loan relationships with aggregate outstanding debt to 
Peoples of $1,000,000 or more, with adversely classified loans generally reviewed on a quarterly basis.  

73

The primary factors considered when assigning a risk grade to a loan include (1) reliability and sustainability of the 
primary source of repayment, (2) past, present and projected financial condition of the borrower, and (3) current economic 
and industry conditions.  Other factors that could influence the risk grade assigned include the type and quality of 
collateral and the strength of guarantors.  The primary source of repayment for commercial real estate loans and 
commercial and industrial loans is normally the business's operating cash flow available to repay debt.  Management's 
analysis of operating cash flow for commercial real estate loans secured by non-owner occupied properties takes into 
account factors such as rent rolls and vacancy statistics.  Management's analysis of operating cash flow for commercial 
real estate loans secured by owner occupied properties and all commercial and industrial loans considers the profitability, 
liquidity and leverage of the business.  The evaluation of construction loans is based largely on the borrower's ability to 
complete construction within the established budget.  

The primary factors considered when classifying consumer loans include the loan's past due status and declaration of 
bankruptcy by the borrower(s).  The classification of residential real estate and home equity lines of credit also takes into 
account the current value of the underlying collateral.

Troubled Debt Restructuring:  The restructuring of a loan is considered a troubled debt restructuring ("TDR") if both 
(1) the borrower is experiencing financial difficulties and (2) the creditor has granted a concession.  Loans acquired that 
are restructured after acquisition are not considered TDRs if the loans evidenced credit deterioration as of the acquisition 
date and are accounted for in pools of purchased credit impaired loans.

In assessing whether or not a borrower is experiencing financial difficulties, Peoples considers information currently 

available regarding the financial condition of the borrower.  This information includes, but is not limited to, whether (1) 
the borrower is currently in payment default on any of its debt, (2) a payment default is probable in the foreseeable future 
without the modification, (3) the borrower has declared or is in the process of declaring bankruptcy, and (4) the borrower's 
projected cash flow is insufficient to satisfy contractual payments due under the original terms of the loan without a 
modification.

Peoples considers all aspects of the modification to loan terms to determine whether or not a concession has been 
granted to the borrower.  Key factors considered by Peoples include the borrower's ability to access funds at a market rate 
for debt with similar risk characteristics, the significance of the modification relative to the unpaid principal balance or 
collateral value of the debt, and the significance of a delay in the timing of payments relative to the original contractual 
terms of the loan.  The most common concessions granted by Peoples generally include one or more modifications to the 
terms of the debt, such as (1) a reduction in the interest rate for the remaining life of the debt, (2) an extension of the 
maturity date at an interest rate lower than the current market rate for new debt with similar risk, (3) a temporary period of 
interest-only payments, and (4) a reduction in the contractual payment amount for either a short period or the remaining 
term of the loan.  All TDRs are considered impaired loans and are evaluated individually to determine if a write-down is 
required and if they should be on accrual or nonaccrual status.  

Bank Premises and Equipment: Bank premises and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation.  
Depreciation is computed on the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the related assets owned.  Major 
improvements to leased facilities are capitalized and included in bank premises at cost less accumulated depreciation, 
which is calculated on the straight-line method over the lesser of the remaining term of the leased facility or the estimated 
economic life of the improvement.

Investments in Affordable Housing Limited Partnerships: Investments in affordable housing consist of investments in 
limited partnerships that operate qualified affordable housing projects or that invest in other limited partnerships formed 
to operate affordable housing projects.  These investments are considered variable interest entities for which Peoples is 
not the primary beneficiary.  Peoples generally utilizes the effective yield method to account for these investments with 
the tax credits, net of the amortization of the investment, reflected in the Consolidated Statements of Income as a 
reduction of income tax expense.  The unamortized amount of the investments is recorded in other assets and totaled 
$45,000 and $262,000 at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

Other Real Estate Owned: Other real estate owned (“OREO”), included in other assets on the Consolidated Balance 
Sheets, is comprised primarily of commercial and residential real estate properties acquired by Peoples Bank in 
satisfaction of a loan.  OREO obtained in satisfaction of a loan is recorded at the lower of cost or estimated fair value, less 
estimated costs to sell the property.  Peoples had OREO totaling $0.9 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013.

Business Combinations: Business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method of accounting.  Under 
this accounting method, the acquired company's net assets are recorded at fair value on the date of acquisition, and the 
results of operations of the acquired company are combined with Peoples' from the acquisition date forward.  Costs 
related to the acquisition are expensed as incurred.  The purchase price paid over the fair value of the net assets acquired 
(including intangible assets with finite lives) is recorded as goodwill. 

74

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets: Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquisition over the fair value of 
the net assets acquired in the business combination.  Goodwill is not amortized but is tested for impairment annually on 
June 30 and is updated quarterly if necessary.  Based upon the most recently completed goodwill impairment test, Peoples 
concluded the recorded value of goodwill was not impaired as of December 31, 2014, based upon the estimated fair value 
of Peoples' single reporting unit.  

Peoples' other intangible assets consist of customer relationship and core deposit intangible assets representing the net 

present value of future economic benefit to be earned from acquired customer relationships with definite useful lives.  
These intangible assets are amortized on an accelerated basis over their estimated lives ranging from 7 to 10 years.  

Servicing Rights: Servicing rights (“SRs”) represent the right to service loans sold to third-party investors.  SRs are 
recognized separately as a servicing asset or liability whenever Peoples undertakes an obligation to service financial 
assets. SRs are reported in other intangible assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.  Serviced loans are not included in 
the Consolidated Balance Sheets.  Loan servicing income included in mortgage banking income includes servicing fees 
received from the third-party investors and certain charges collected from the borrowers. 

Peoples initially records SRs at fair value at the time of the sale of the loans to the third-party investor.  Peoples 
follows the amortization method for the subsequent measurement of each class of separately recognized servicing assets 
and liabilities.  Under the amortization method, Peoples amortizes the value of servicing assets or liabilities in proportion 
to and over the period of estimated net servicing income or net servicing loss, and assesses servicing assets or liabilities 
for impairment or increased obligation based on fair value at each reporting date.  The fair value of the SRs is determined 
by using a discounted cash flow model, which estimates the present value of the future net cash flows of the servicing 
portfolio based on various factors, such as servicing costs, expected prepayment speeds and discount rates.  

Preferred Stock and Common Stock Warrant: As more fully described in Note 10, Peoples issued preferred stock and a 
common stock warrant, subsequently redeemed in 2011 and 2012, respectively, that were classified in stockholders' equity 
on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.  The preferred stock had similar characteristics of an “Increasing Rate Security” as 
described by Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) Staff Accounting Bulletin Topic 5Q, Increasing Rate 
Preferred Stock.  The proceeds received in conjunction with the issuance of the preferred stock and common stock warrant 
were allocated to the preferred stock and common stock warrant based on their relative fair values.  Discounts on the 
increasing rate preferred stock were amortized over the expected life of the preferred stock (5 years), by charging imputed 
dividend cost against retained earnings and increasing the carrying amount of the preferred stock by a corresponding 
amount.  The discount at the time of issuance was computed as the present value of the difference between dividends that 
would be payable in future periods and the dividend amount for a corresponding number of periods, discounted at a 
market rate for dividend yield on comparable securities.  The amortization in each period was the amount which, together 
with the stated dividend in the period, resulted in a constant rate of effective cost with regard to the carrying amount of the 
preferred stock.  

Common stock warrants are evaluated for liability or equity treatment.  The common stock warrant issued by Peoples 

was carried in stockholders' equity until repurchased based on the view of both the SEC and Financial Accounting 
Standards Board (the “FASB”) that they would not object to classification of such form of common stock warrant as 
permanent equity.  This view is consistent with the objective of the Capital Purchase Program that the equity represented 
by these securities should be considered part of equity for regulatory reporting purposes.  The fair value of the common 
stock warrant used in allocating total proceeds received was determined based on a binomial model.

Trust Assets Under Management: Peoples Bank manages certain assets held in a fiduciary or agency capacity for 
customers.  These assets under management, other than cash on deposit at Peoples Bank, are not included in the 
Consolidated Balance Sheets since they are not assets of Peoples Bank.    

Interest Income Recognition: Interest income on loans and investment securities is recognized by methods that result in 
level rates of return on principal amounts outstanding.  Amortization of premiums has been deducted from, and accretion 
of discounts has been added to, the related interest income.  Nonrefundable loan fees and direct loan costs are deferred 
and recognized over the life of the loan as an adjustment of the yield.  

Peoples discontinues the accrual of interest on all loans, whether or not such loans are considered past due, when 

management believes it is probable the borrower will be unable to meet its payment obligations as they become due, as 
well as when required by regulatory provisions.  When interest accrual is discontinued, all unpaid accrued interest is 
reversed.  Interest received on nonaccrual loans is included in income only if principal recovery is reasonably assured.  A 
nonaccrual loan is restored to accrual status when it is brought current, has performed in accordance with contractual 
terms for a reasonable period of time, and the collectability of the total contractual principal and interest is no longer in 
doubt.  

75

Other Income Recognition: Service charges on deposits include cost recovery fees associated with services provided, 
such as overdraft and non-sufficient funds.  Trust and investment income consists of revenue from fiduciary activities, 
which include fees for services such as asset management, recordkeeping, retirement services and estate management, and 
investment commissions and fees related to the sale of investments.  Income from these activities is recognized at the time 
the related services are performed.

Insurance income consists of commissions and fees from the sales of insurance policies and related insurance 
services.  Insurance income is recognized when it is earned and can be reasonably estimated.  Performance-based 
commissions from insurance companies are recognized when received and no contingencies remain.

Income Taxes: Peoples and its subsidiaries file a consolidated federal income tax return. Deferred income tax assets and 
liabilities are provided for temporary differences between the tax basis of an asset or liability and its reported amount in 
the Consolidated Financial Statements at the statutory federal tax rate.  A valuation allowance, if needed, reduces deferred 
tax assets to the expected amount most likely to be realized.  Realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon the 
generation of a sufficient level of future taxable income and recoverable taxes paid in prior years.  The components of 
other comprehensive income or loss included in the Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity have been computed 
based upon a 35% Federal tax rate.

A tax position is initially recognized in the financial statements when it is more likely than not the position will be 

sustained upon examination by the tax authorities.  Such tax positions are initially and subsequently measured as the 
largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement with the tax 
authority assuming full knowledge of the position and all relevant facts.  Penalties and interest incurred under the 
applicable tax law are classified as income tax expense.  The amount of Peoples' uncertain income tax positions and 
unrecognized benefits are disclosed in Note 12.

Advertising Costs: Advertising costs are generally expensed as incurred.

Earnings per Share: Basic and diluted earnings per common share (“EPS”) are calculated using the two-class method 
since Peoples has issued some share-based payment awards considered participating securities because they entitle 
holders the rights to dividends during the vesting term.  The two-class method is an earnings allocation formula that 
determines net income per share for each class of common stock and participating security according to dividends 
declared and participation rights in undistributed earnings.  Basic earnings per common share is computed by dividing net 
earnings allocated to common shareholders by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding.  Diluted 
earnings per common share is computed by dividing net earnings allocated to common shareholders by the weighted-
average number of common shares outstanding adjusted to include the effect of potentially dilutive common 
shares.  Potentially dilutive common shares include incremental common shares issuable upon exercise of outstanding 
stock options, stock appreciation rights and non-vested restricted common shares using the treasury stock method.

Operating Segments: Peoples' business activities are currently confined to one reporting unit and reportable segment, 
which is community banking.  As a community banking entity, Peoples offers its customers a full range of products 
including a complete line of banking, insurance, investment and trust solutions.  

Stock-Based Compensation: Compensation costs for stock options, restricted stock awards and stock appreciation rights 
are measured at the fair value of these awards on their grant date. Compensation expense is recognized over the required 
service period, generally the vesting period for stock options and stock appreciation rights and the restriction period for 
restricted stock awards.  For all awards, only the expense for the portion of the awards expected to vest is recognized.  For 
service-based awards, compensation expense for awards granted to employees who are eligible for retirement is 
recognized to the date the employee is first eligible to retire.

New Accounting Pronouncements: From time to time, new accounting pronouncements are issued by FASB or other 
standard setting bodies that are adopted by Peoples as of the required effective dates.  Unless otherwise discussed, 
management believes the impact of any recently issued standards, including those issued but not yet effective, will not 
have a material impact on Peoples financial statements taken as a whole.

76

Note 2.   Fair Value of Financial Instruments 

Assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis comprised the following at December 31:  

(Dollars in thousands)
2014
Obligations of:

U.S. Treasury and government agencies
U.S. government sponsored agencies
States and political subdivisions

Residential mortgage-backed securities
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
Bank-issued trust preferred securities
Equity securities
Total available-for-sale securities
2013
Obligations of:

U.S. Treasury and government agencies
U.S. government sponsored agencies
States and political subdivisions

Residential mortgage-backed securities
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
Bank-issued trust preferred securities
Equity securities
Total available-for-sale securities

Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using

Quoted Prices in 
Active Markets 
for Identical 
Assets
(Level 1)

Significant
Other
Observable
 Inputs
(Level 2)

Significant 
Unobservable 
Inputs
(Level 3)

Fair Value

$

$

$

$

1 $

5,950
64,743
527,291
27,847
5,645
5,403
636,880 $

20 $
319
50,962
510,097
32,304
7,829
4,577
606,108 $

— $
—
—
—
—
—
5,204
5,204 $

— $
—
—
—
—
—
4,443
4,443 $

1 $

5,950
64,743
527,291
27,847
5,645
199
631,676 $

20 $
319
50,962
510,097
32,304
7,829
134
601,665 $

—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—

—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—

Held-to-maturity securities reported at fair value comprised the following at December 31: 

(Dollars in thousands)
2014
Obligations of:

States and political subdivisions

Residential mortgage-backed securities
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
Total held-to-maturity securities
2013
Obligations of:

States and political subdivisions

Residential mortgage-backed securities
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
Total held-to-maturity securities

Fair Value at Reporting Date Using

Quoted Prices in
Active Markets
for Identical
Assets
(Level 1)

Significant
Other
Observable
 Inputs
(Level 2)

Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)

Fair Value

$

$

$

$

4,282 $
36,740
7,420
48,442 $

3,929 $
34,530
7,635
46,094 $

— $
—
—
— $

— $
—
—
— $

4,282 $
36,740
7,420
48,442 $

3,929 $
34,530
7,635
46,094 $

—
—
—
—

—
—
—
—

The fair values used by Peoples are obtained from an independent pricing service and represent either quoted market 

prices for the identical securities (Level 1 inputs) or fair values determined by pricing models using a market approach that 

77

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
considers observable market data, such as interest rate volatilities, LIBOR yield curves, credit spreads and prices from market 
makers and live trading systems (Level 2).  Management reviews the valuation methodology and quality controls utilized by 
the pricing services in management's overall assessment of the reasonableness of the fair values provided and challenges 
prices when it believes a material discrepancy in pricing exists.

Certain financial assets and financial liabilities are measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis; that is, the 
instruments are not measured at fair value on an ongoing basis but are subject to fair value adjustments in certain 
circumstances (for example, when there is evidence of impairment).  Financial assets measured at fair value on a non-
recurring basis included the following:

Impaired Loans: Impaired loans are measured and reported at fair value when the amounts to be received are less 
than the carrying value of the loans.  One of the allowable methods for determining the amount of impairment is 
estimating fair value using the fair value of the collateral for collateral-dependent loans.  Management’s 
determination of the fair value for these loans uses a market approach representing the estimated net proceeds to be 
received from the sale of the collateral based on observable market prices or market value provided by independent, 
licensed or certified appraisers (Level 3 inputs).  At December 31, 2014, impaired loans with an aggregate 
outstanding principal balance of $2.7 million were measured and reported at a fair value of $1.6 million.  For the 
year ended December 31, 2014, Peoples recognized losses of $1.0 million on impaired loans through the allowance 
for loan losses.

The following table presents the fair values of financial assets and liabilities carried on Peoples’ Consolidated Balance 
Sheets, including those financial assets and financial liabilities that are not measured and reported at fair value on a recurring 
basis or non-recurring basis at December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
Financial assets:
Cash and cash equivalents
Investment securities
Loans
Financial liabilities:
Deposits
Short-term borrowings
Long-term borrowings

2014

2013

Carrying
Amount

Fair Value

Carrying
Amount

Fair Value

$

61,454 $
713,659
1,607,391

61,454
713,633
1,581,813

$

53,820 $
680,526
1,180,857

53,820
677,398
1,165,560

$ 1,933,074 $ 1,938,021
88,277
183,878

88,277
179,083

$ 1,580,758 $ 1,587,448
113,590
128,205

113,590
121,826

The methodologies for estimating the fair value of financial assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a 
recurring or non-recurring basis are discussed above.  For certain financial assets and liabilities, carrying value approximates 
fair value due to the nature of the financial instrument.  These instruments include cash and cash equivalents, demand and 
other non-maturity deposits and short-term borrowings.  Peoples used the following methods and assumptions in estimating 
the fair value of the following financial instruments:

Loans: The fair value of portfolio loans assumes sale of the notes to a third-party financial investor.  Accordingly, 
this value is not necessarily the value to Peoples if the notes were held to maturity.  Peoples considered interest rate, 
credit and market factors in estimating the fair value of loans (Level 3 inputs).  In the current whole loan market, 
financial investors are generally requiring a much higher rate of return than the return inherent in loans if held to 
maturity given the lack of market liquidity.  This divergence accounts for the majority of the difference in carrying 
amount over fair value. 

Deposits: The fair value of fixed maturity certificates of deposit is estimated using a discounted cash flow 
calculation based on current rates offered for deposits of similar remaining maturities (Level 2 inputs).

Long-term Borrowings: The fair value of long-term borrowings is estimated using discounted cash flow analysis 
based on rates currently available to Peoples for borrowings with similar terms (Level 2 inputs). 

Bank premises and equipment, customer relationships, deposit base, banking center networks, and other information 
required to compute Peoples’ aggregate fair value are not included in the above information.  Accordingly, the above fair 
values are not intended to represent the aggregate fair value of Peoples.

78

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note 3.   Investment Securities 

Available-for-sale

The following table summarizes Peoples’ available-for-sale investment securities at December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
2014
Obligations of:

U.S. Treasury and government agencies
U.S. government sponsored agencies
States and political subdivisions
Residential mortgage-backed securities
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
Bank-issued trust preferred securities
Equity securities

Total available-for-sale securities

2013
Obligations of:

U.S. Treasury and government agencies
U.S. government sponsored agencies
States and political subdivisions
Residential mortgage-backed securities
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
Bank-issued trust preferred securities
Equity securities

Total available-for-sale securities

Amortized
Cost

Gross
Unrealized
Gains

Gross
Unrealized
Losses

Fair Value

$

1 $

5,836
62,292
529,245
28,021
6,132
1,440
632,967 $

20 $
308
50,509
527,283
33,256
8,508
1,242
621,126 $

$

$

$

— $
114
2,510
5,910
112
3
4,044
12,693 $

— $
11
1,480
5,334
274
—
3,421
10,520 $

— $
—
(59)
(7,864)
(286)
(490)
(81)
(8,780) $

— $
—
(1,027)
(22,520)
(1,226)
(679)
(86)
(25,538) $

1
5,950
64,743
527,291
27,847
5,645
5,403
636,880

20
319
50,962
510,097
32,304
7,829
4,577
606,108

Peoples’ investment in equity securities was comprised entirely of common stocks issued by various unrelated bank 
holding companies at both December 31, 2014 and 2013.  At December 31, 2014, there were no securities of a single issuer, 
other than U.S. Treasury and government agencies and U.S. government sponsored agencies, that exceeded 10% of 
stockholders' equity.

The gross gains and gross losses realized by Peoples from sales of available-for-sale securities for the years ended 

December 31 were as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
Gross gains realized
Gross losses realized
Net gain realized

2014

2013

2012

$

$

1,136 $
738
398 $

3,358 $
2,869

489 $

4,306
758
3,548

The cost of investment securities sold, and any resulting gain or loss, were based on the specific identification method 

and recognized as of the trade date. 

79

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
114,018

1,091

216,224

6,773

330,242

7,864

The following table presents a summary of available-for-sale investment securities that had an unrealized loss at 

December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
2014
Obligations of:

Less than 12 Months
Unrealized
Loss

No. of
Securities

Fair
Value

12 Months or More
Unrealized
Loss

No. of
Securities

Fair
Value

Total

Fair
Value

Unrealized
Loss

— $

— $

— $

— $

U.S. Treasury and government

agencies

$

— $

U.S. government sponsored

agencies

—

States and political subdivisions

2,602

—

—

12

—

—

2
1,105

—

—

659

Residential mortgage-backed

securities

Commercial mortgage-backed

securities

Bank-issued trust preferred

securities
Equity securities
Total

2013
Obligations of:

—

—

40

$ 116,660 $

U.S. Treasury and government

agencies

$

— $

U.S. government sponsored

agencies

—

States and political subdivisions

15,848

Residential mortgage-backed

securities

Commercial mortgage-backed

securities

Bank-issued trust preferred

securities
Equity securities
Total

310,315

16,709

19,560

2,013

—

$ 347,736 $

779

90

—
18,237

—

4

21

—

—

2
27

—

5,788

19,404

2,509

96

$ 244,021 $

— $

— $

—

22

75

4

1

—
102

—

6,180

57,440

7,205

4,803

97

$ 75,725 $

—

—

47

286

490

79
7,675

—

—

368

5,811

447

589

86
7,301

—

8,390

19,404

2,509

136

$ 360,681 $

—

—

59

286

490

81
8,780

—

—

— $

— $

—

22,028

1,027

367,755

22,520

26,765

1,226

6,816

97

$ 423,461 $

679

86
25,538

—

8

57

4

3

1
73

—

10

20

2

4

2
38

Management systematically evaluates available-for-sale investment securities for other-than-temporary declines in fair 

value on a quarterly basis. At December 31, 2014, management concluded no individual securities were other-than-
temporarily impaired since Peoples did not have the intent to sell, nor was it more likely than not that Peoples would be 
required to sell any of the securities with an unrealized loss prior to recovery.  Further, the unrealized losses at both 
December 31, 2014 and 2013 were attributable to changes in market interest rates and spreads since the securities were 
purchased.  

At December 31, 2014, approximately 99% of the fair value of mortgage-backed securities that had been at an unrealized 

loss position for twelve months or more were issued by U.S. government sponsored agencies.  The remaining 1%, or three 
positions, consisted of privately issued mortgage-backed securities with all of the underlying mortgages originated prior to 
2004.  Two of the three positions had a fair value of less than 90% of their book value, with an aggregate book and fair value 
of $0.9 million and $0.6 million, respectively.  Management has analyzed the underlying credit quality of these securities and 
concluded the unrealized losses were primarily attributable to the floating rate nature of these investments and the low 
number of loans remaining in these securities.

Furthermore, the unrealized losses with respect to the three bank-issued trust preferred securities that had been in an 
unrealized loss position for twelve months or more at December 31, 2014 were primarily attributable to the floating nature of 
those investments, the current interest rate environment and spreads within that sector. 

The table below presents the amortized cost, fair value and total weighted-average yield of available-for-sale securities 

by contractual maturity at December 31, 2014.  The weighted-average yields are based on the amortized cost.  In some cases, 

80

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
the issuers may have the right to call or prepay obligations without call or prepayment penalties prior to the contractual 
maturity date.  Rates are calculated on a fully tax-equivalent basis using a 35% federal income tax rate.

(Dollars in thousands)
Amortized cost
Obligations of:

U.S. Treasury and government agencies
U.S. government sponsored agencies
States and political subdivisions

Residential mortgage-backed securities
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
Bank-issued trust preferred securities
Equity securities

Total available-for-sale securities

Fair value
Obligations of:

U.S. Treasury and government agencies
U.S. government sponsored agencies
States and political subdivisions

Residential mortgage-backed securities
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
Bank-issued trust preferred securities
Equity securities

Total available-for-sale securities
Total weighted-average yield

$

$

$

$

Within 1
Year

1 to 5
Years

5 to 10
Years

Over 10
Years

Total

— $

1
—
276
—
—
—

$

— $
983
4,732
12,168
—
—

— $
—
25,177
29,207
23,020
—

4,853
32,107
487,870
5,001
6,132

277

$ 17,883

$ 77,404

$ 535,963

— $

1
—
283
—
—
—

$

— $
999
4,978
12,181
—
—

— $
—
26,021
29,419
22,759
—

4,951
33,461
485,691
5,088
5,645

1
5,836
62,292
529,245
28,021
6,132
1,440
$ 632,967

1
5,950
64,743
527,291
27,847
5,645
5,403
$ 636,880

284
4.59%

$ 18,158

$ 78,199

$ 534,836

3.04%

2.80%

2.63%

2.68%

Held-to-Maturity

The following table summarizes Peoples’ held-to-maturity investment securities at December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
2014
Obligations of:

States and political subdivisions
Residential mortgage-backed securities
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
Total held-to-maturity securities

2013
Obligations of:

States and political subdivisions
Residential mortgage-backed securities
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
Total held-to-maturity securities

Amortized
Cost

Gross
Unrealized
Gains

Gross
Unrealized
Losses

Fair Value

$

$

$

$

3,841 $
36,945
7,682
48,468 $

3,850 $
37,536
7,836
49,222 $

448 $
189
9
646 $

91 $
35
2
128 $

(7) $

(394)
(271)
(672) $

4,282
36,740
7,420
48,442

(12) $

(3,041)
(203)
(3,256) $

3,929
34,530
7,635
46,094

There were no gross gains or gross losses realized by Peoples from sales of held-to-maturity securities for the years 

ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012.

81

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The following table presents a summary of held-to-maturity investment securities that had an unrealized loss at 

December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
2014

Obligations of:

Less than 12 Months
Unrealized
Loss

No. of
Securities

Fair
Value

12 Months or More
Unrealized
Loss

No. of
Securities

Fair
Value

Total

Fair
Value

Unrealized
Loss

States and political subdivisions $

— $

Residential mortgage-backed

securities

Commercial mortgage-backed

securities
Total

2013

Obligations of:

—

—

$

— $

States and political subdivisions $

321 $

—

—

—

—

12

Residential mortgage-backed

securities

Commercial mortgage-backed

securities
Total

31,341

2,908

6,547

203

$ 38,209 $

3,123

— $

323 $

—

—

18,242

6,356

— $ 24,921 $

1

7

1

9

$

— $

1,181

—

$

1,181 $

7

394

271

672

—

133

—

133

1

5

1

7

$

323 $

18,242

6,356

$ 24,921 $

7

394

271

672

— $

321 $

12

1

—

32,522

3,041

6,547

203

1

$ 39,390 $

3,256

The table below presents the amortized cost, fair value and total weighted-average yield of held-to-maturity securities by 
contractual maturity at December 31, 2014.  The weighted-average yields are based on the amortized cost.  In some cases, the 
issuers may have the right to call or prepay obligations without call or prepayment penalties prior to the contractual maturity 
date.  Rates are calculated on a fully tax-equivalent basis using a 35% federal income tax rate.

(Dollars in thousands)
Amortized cost
Obligations of:

States and political subdivisions

Residential mortgage-backed securities
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
Total held-to-maturity securities

Fair value
Obligations of:

States and political subdivisions

Residential mortgage-backed securities
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
Total held-to-maturity securities
Total weighted-average yield

Within 1
Year

1 to 5
Years

5 to 10
Years

Over 10
Years

Total

$

$

$

$

— $
—
—
— $

— $
—
—
— $
—%

— $
—
—
— $

— $
—
—
— $
—%

329
507
—
836

$

3,512
36,438
7,682
$ 47,632

$

3,841
36,945
7,682
$ 48,468

323
508
—
831
2.61%

$

3,959
36,232
7,420
$ 47,611

$

4,282
36,740
7,420
$ 48,442

2.77%

2.76%

Pledged Securities

Peoples had pledged available-for-sale investment securities with a carrying value of $352.8 million and $303.8 million 

at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and held-to-maturity investment securities with a carrying value of $22.9 
million and $21.4 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, to secure public and trust department deposits and 
repurchase agreements in accordance with federal and state requirements.  Peoples also pledged available-for-sale investment 
securities with carrying values of $13.5 million and $16.2 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and held-to-
maturity securities with carrying values of $24.5 million and $25.9 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, to 
secure additional borrowing capacity at the FHLB and the FRB.

82

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note 4.   Loans

Peoples' loan portfolio consists of various types of loans originated primarily as a result of lending opportunities within 

Peoples' primary market areas of northeastern, central and southeastern Ohio, west central West Virginia, and northeastern 
Kentucky.  Acquired loans consist of loans purchased in 2012 or thereafter in a business combination.  The major classifications 
of loan balances, excluding loans held for sale, were as follows at December 31: 

(Dollars in thousands)
Originated loans:
Commercial real estate, construction $
Commercial real estate, other
    Commercial real estate
Commercial and industrial
Residential real estate
Home equity lines of credit
Consumer
Deposit account overdrafts
Total originated loans

$

Acquired loans:
Commercial real estate, construction $
Commercial real estate, other
    Commercial real estate
Commercial and industrial
Residential real estate
Home equity lines of credit
Consumer

Total acquired loans
Total loans

$
$

2014

2013

37,901 $
434,660
472,561
249,975
254,169
62,463
169,913
2,933
1,212,014 $

1,051 $

121,475
122,526
30,056
225,274
18,232
12,796
408,884 $
1,620,898 $

44,703
394,532
439,235
206,276
248,883
55,178
133,864
2,060
1,085,496

2,836
55,638
58,474
26,478
19,734
4,898
1,154
110,738
1,196,234

Peoples has acquired various loans through business combinations for which there was, at acquisition, evidence of 

deterioration of credit quality since origination and for which it was probable that all contractually required payments would not 
be collected, commonly referred to as "purchase credit impaired" loans.  The carrying amounts of these loans included in the loan 
balances above are summarized as follows at December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
Commercial real estate
Commercial and industrial
Residential real estate
Consumer

Total outstanding balance
Net carrying amount

2014

2013

$

$
$

7,762 $
1,041
15,183
306
24,292 $
19,067 $

963
78
1,236
—
2,277
1,875

83

Changes in the accretable yield for acquired purchased credit impaired loans the year ended December 31, 2014 were as 

follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
Balance, December 31, 2013
Additions:
    Reclassification from nonaccretable to accretable
    Midwest Bancshares, Inc.
    Ohio Heritage Bancorp, Inc.
    North Akron Savings Bank
Accretion

Balance, December 31, 2014

$

Accretable
Yield

$

103

402
750
1,485
813
(381)
3,172

Peoples has pledged certain loans secured by 1-4 family and multifamily residential mortgages under a blanket collateral 
agreement to secure borrowings from the FHLB.  The amount of such pledged loans totaled $457.1 million and $259.1 million at 
December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.  Peoples also had pledged commercial loans to secure borrowings with the FRB.  The 
outstanding balances of these loans totaled $150.7 million and $113.0 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

Related Party Loans

In the normal course of its business, Peoples Bank has granted loans to certain directors and officers, including their affiliates, 

families and entities in which they are principal owners.  Related party loans were made on substantially the same terms, 
including interest rates charged and collateral required, as those prevailing at the time for comparable loans with unrelated 
persons and did not involve more than normal risk of collectability.  At December 31, 2014, no related party loan was past due 90 
or more days, renegotiated or on nonaccrual status.  Activity in related party loans is presented in the table below.  Other changes 
primarily consist of changes in related party status during the year. 

(Dollars in thousands)
Balance, December 31, 2013

New loans and disbursements

Repayments

Other changes

Balance, December 31, 2014

$

$

11,359

11,139

(7,940)

(560)
13,998

84

 
Nonaccrual and Past Due Loans

The recorded investments in loans on nonaccrual status and accruing loans delinquent for 90 days or more were as follows at 

December 31: 

(Dollars in thousands)

Originated loans:

Nonaccrual Loans

Accruing Loans
90+ Days Past Due

2014

2013

2014

2013

Commercial real estate, construction

$

— $

— $

— $

Commercial real estate, other

    Commercial real estate

Commercial and industrial

Residential real estate

Home equity lines of credit

Consumer

Total originated loans

Acquired loans:

Commercial real estate, construction

Commercial real estate, other

    Commercial real estate

Commercial and industrial

Residential real estate

Home equity lines of credit

Consumer

Total acquired loans

Total loans

$

$

$

$

2,575

2,575

1,286

3,049

341

19
7,270 $

96 $

9

105

708

304

19

—
1,136 $

8,406 $

2,798

2,798

630

2,161

87

58
5,734

96

—

96

—

104

—

—
200

5,934

$

$

$

$

—

—

—

818

20

2
840 $

— $

567

567

301

1,083

—

8
1,959 $

2,799 $

—

—

—

—

199

873

—
1,072

—

—

—

78

90

—

—
168

1,240

85

 
The following table presents the aging of the recorded investment in past due loans and leases at December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
2014
Originated loans:
Commercial real estate, construction
Commercial real estate, other
    Commercial real estate
Commercial and industrial
Residential real estate
Home equity lines of credit
Consumer
Deposit account overdrafts
Total originated loans
Acquired loans:
Commercial real estate, construction
Commercial real estate, other
    Commercial real estate
Commercial and industrial
Residential real estate
Home equity lines of credit
Consumer
Total acquired loans
Total loans
2013
Originated loans:
Commercial real estate, construction
Commercial real estate, other
    Commercial real estate
Commercial and industrial
Residential real estate
Home equity lines of credit
Consumer
Deposit account overdrafts
Total originated loans
Acquired loans:
Commercial real estate, construction
Commercial real estate, other
    Commercial real estate
Commercial and industrial
Residential real estate
Home equity lines of credit
Consumer
Total acquired loans
Total loans

Loans Past Due

30 - 59 days 60 - 89 days

90 + Days

Total

Current
Loans

Total
Loans

— $

37,901 $
432,590
470,491
248,695
246,703
61,565
168,618
2,868

37,901
434,660
472,561
249,975
254,169
62,463
169,913
2,933
$ 1,198,940 $ 1,212,014

$

955 $

1,051
121,475
122,526
30,056
225,274
18,232
12,796
$
408,884
$ 1,598,240 $ 1,620,898

119,698
120,653
29,189
218,738
18,204
12,516
399,300 $

$

43,637 $
392,851
436,488
206,039
241,901
53,930
132,734
2,013

44,703
394,532
439,235
206,276
248,883
55,178
133,864
2,060
$ 1,073,105 $ 1,085,496

$

2,562 $
54,959
57,521
26,327
18,310
4,898
1,085
108,141 $

2,836
55,638
58,474
26,478
19,734
4,898
1,154
$
110,738
$ 1,181,246 $ 1,196,234

2,070
2,070
1,280
7,466
898
1,295
65
13,074

96
1,777
1,873
867
6,536
28
280
9,584
22,658

1,066
1,681
2,747
237
6,982
1,248
1,130
47
12,391

274
679
953
151
1,424
—
69
2,597
14,988

$

$

$

$
$

$

$

$

$
$

— $
565
565
17
4,502
344
1,136
65
6,629 $

— $

1,067
1,067
46
4,026
9
245
5,393 $
12,022 $

1,066 $
432
1,498
171
4,584
254
919
47
7,473 $

274 $
—
274
—
861
—
57
1,192 $
8,665 $

— $

1,220
1,220
1,245
1,902
129
2
—
4,498 $

96 $
567
663
815
1,179
—
8
2,665 $
7,163 $

— $

1,249
1,249
49
1,258
929
58
—
3,543 $

— $
—
—
78
194
—
—
272 $
3,815 $

— $
285
285
18
1,062
425
157
—
1,947 $

— $
143
143
6
1,331
19
27
1,526 $
3,473 $

— $
—
—
17
1,140
65
153
—
1,375 $

— $
679
679
73
369
—
12
1,133 $
2,508 $

86

Credit Quality Indicators

As discussed in Note 1, Peoples categorizes the majority of its loans into risk categories based upon an established risk 
grading matrix using a scale of 1 to 8.  A description of the general characteristics of the risk grades used by Peoples is as follows:

“Pass” (grades 1 through 4): Loans in this risk category involve borrowers of acceptable-to-strong credit quality and 
risk who have the apparent ability to satisfy their loan obligations.  Loans in this risk grade would possess sufficient 
mitigating factors, such as adequate collateral or strong guarantors possessing the capacity to repay the loan if required, 
for any weakness that may exist.  

“Watch” (grade 5): Loans in this risk grade are the equivalent of the regulatory definition of “Other Assets Especially 
Mentioned” classification.  Loans in this category possess some credit deficiency or potential weakness, which requires a 
high level of management attention.  Potential weaknesses include declining trends in operating earnings and cash flows 
and/or reliance on the secondary source of repayment.  If left uncorrected, these potential weaknesses may result in 
noticeable deterioration of the repayment prospects for the loan or in Peoples' credit position.

“Substandard” (grade 6): Loans in this risk grade are inadequately protected by the borrower's current financial 
condition and payment capability or of the collateral pledged, if any.  Loans so classified have one or more well-defined 
weaknesses that jeopardize the orderly repayment of the loan.  They are characterized by the distinct possibility that 
Peoples will sustain some loss if the deficiencies are not corrected.

“Doubtful” (grade 7): Loans in this risk grade have all the weaknesses inherent in those classified as substandard, with 
the added characteristic that the weaknesses make collection or orderly repayment in full, on the basis of current existing 
facts, conditions and values, highly questionable and improbable.  Possibility of loss is extremely high, but because of 
certain important and reasonably specific factors that may work to the advantage and strengthening of the exposure, its 
classification as an estimate loss is deferred until its more exact status may be determined.

“Loss” (grade 8): Loans in this risk grade are considered to be non-collectible and of such little value that their 
continuance as bankable assets is not warranted. This does not mean each such loan has absolutely no recovery value, 
but rather it is neither practical nor desirable to defer writing off the loan, even though partial recovery may be obtained 
in the future.  Charge-offs against the allowance for loan losses are taken in the period in which the loan becomes 
uncollectible.  Consequently, Peoples typically does not maintain a recorded investment in loans within this category. 

Consumer loans and other smaller-balance loans are evaluated and categorized as “substandard”, “doubtful” or “loss” based 

upon the regulatory definition of these classes and consistent with regulatory requirements.  All other loans not evaluated 
individually, nor meeting the regulatory conditions to be categorized as described above, would be considered as being “not 
rated”.

87

The following table summarizes the risk category of Peoples' loan portfolio based upon the most recent analysis performed at 

December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
2014
Originated loans:
Commercial real estate, construction
Commercial real estate, other
    Commercial real estate
Commercial and industrial
Residential real estate
Home equity lines of credit
Consumer
Deposit account overdrafts
Total originated loans
Acquired loans:
Commercial real estate, construction
Commercial real estate, other
    Commercial real estate
Commercial and industrial
Residential real estate
Home equity lines of credit
Consumer
Total acquired loans
Total loans
2013
Originated loans:
Commercial real estate, construction
Commercial real estate, other
    Commercial real estate
Commercial and industrial
Residential real estate
Home equity lines of credit
Consumer
Deposit account overdrafts
Total originated loans
Acquired loans:
Commercial real estate, construction
Commercial real estate, other
    Commercial real estate
Commercial and industrial
Residential real estate
Home equity lines of credit
Consumer
Total acquired loans
Total loans

Pass Rated

Watch

Substandard Doubtful

(Grades 1 - 4)

(Grade 5)

(Grade 6)

(Grade 7)

Not
Rated

Total
Loans

— $

17,120
17,120
2,684
11,601
965
8
—
32,378 $

— $

8,260
8,260
2,294
1,540
—
—
12,094 $
44,472 $

68 $

11,299
11,367
13,506
8,094
1,014
24
—
34,005 $

— $

1,622
1,622
500
—
—
—
2,122 $
36,127 $

— $
—
—
1
56
—
—
—
57 $

— $
—
—
194
—
—
—
194 $
251 $

— $
—
—
542
4
—
—
—
546 $

— $
—
—
—
—
—
—
— $
546 $

264 $
—
264
—
220,021
60,731
169,844
2,933

37,901
434,660
472,561
249,975
254,169
62,463
169,913
2,933
453,793 $ 1,212,014

1,051
96 $
121,475
—
122,526
96
30,056
—
225,274
209,443
18,232
18,134
12,796
12,517
408,884
240,190 $
693,983 $ 1,620,898

1,587 $
503
2,090
—
215,090
53,320
133,785
2,060

44,703
394,532
439,235
206,276
248,883
55,178
133,864
2,060
406,345 $ 1,085,496

2,329 $
—
2,329
—
15,820
4,898
1,154
24,201 $

2,836
55,638
58,474
26,478
19,734
4,898
1,154
110,738
430,546 $ 1,196,234

$

$

$

$
$

$

$

$

$
$

37,637 $
405,224
442,861
239,168
21,296
767
60
—

704,152 $

955 $

106,115
107,070
27,313
13,458
98
279
148,218 $
852,370 $

43,048 $
370,812
413,860
187,025
24,198
844
50
—

625,977 $

359 $

52,501
52,860
25,168
2,624
—
—
80,652 $
706,629 $

— $

12,316
12,316
8,122
1,195
—
1
—
21,634 $

— $

7,100
7,100
255
833
—
—
8,188 $
29,822 $

— $

11,918
11,918
5,203
1,497
—
5
—
18,623 $

148 $

1,515
1,663
810
1,290
—
—
3,763 $
22,386 $

88

Impaired Loans

The following tables summarize loans classified as impaired at December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
2014

Commercial real estate,
construction
Commercial real estate, other
    Commercial real estate
Commercial and industrial
Residential real estate
Home equity lines of credit
Consumer
Total
2013

Commercial real estate,
construction
Commercial real estate, other
    Commercial real estate
Commercial and industrial
Residential real estate
Home equity lines of credit
Consumer
Total

Unpaid
Principal
Balance

Recorded Investment
Without
Allowance Allowance

With

Total
Recorded 
Investment

Related
Allowance

Average
Recorded
Investment

Interest
Income
Recognized

$

101 $

2,074
2,175 $
2,379
6,889
500
155
12,098 $

— $

4,970
4,970 $
617
3,498
347
182
9,614 $

$

$

$

— $
653
653 $

1,945
53
—
—
2,651 $

— $

1,150
1,150 $
575
—
—
—
1,725 $

96 $

1,148
1,244 $
399
6,372
498
150
8,663 $

— $

1,729
1,729 $
5
3,280
347
182
5,543 $

96 $

1,801
1,897 $
2,344
6,425
498
150
11,314 $

— $

2,879
2,879 $
580
3,280
347
182
7,268 $

— $
189
189 $
816
9
—
—
1,014 $

— $
83
83 $
575
—
—
—
658 $

57 $

1,632
1,689 $
493
3,543
298
109
6,132 $

— $

4,586
4,586 $
278
2,800
327
127
8,118 $

6
7
13
5
272
18
11
319

—
6
6
1
86
12
15
120

At December 31, 2014, Peoples' impaired loans shown in the table above included loans that were classified as troubled debt 

restructurings.

89

The following table summarizes the loans that were modified as a TDR during the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013.

Recorded Investment (1)

Recorded Investment (1)

Number
of
Contracts

Pre-
Modification

Post-
Modification

At
December 31,
2014

Number
of
Contracts

Pre-
Modification

Post-
Modification

At
December 31,
2013

Originated loans:

Commercial real
estate, other

Commercial and
industrial

Residential real
estate

Home equity lines
of credit

Consumer
Acquired loans:

Commercial real
estate, construction

Commercial and
industrial

Residential real
estate

— $

— $

— $

—

22

12

—

996

238

—

997

238

10 $

108 $

108 $

1 $

96 $

96 $

3

4

605

235

605

235

—

—

967

232

102

96

594

234

2 $

486 $

486 $

1

21

5

37 $

5

5

1,109

1,112

89

279 $

89

279 $

— $

— $

— $

—

2

—

107

—

107

Consumer
(1) The amounts shown are inclusive of all partial paydowns and charge-offs.  Loans modified in a TDR that were fully paid down, charged-off or 
foreclosed upon by period end are not reported.

— $

— $

— $

9 $

9 $

5 $

6

461

5

913

88

142

—

—

107

—

The following table presents those loans modified in a TDR during the year that subsequently defaulted (i.e., 90 days or more 

past due following a modification) during the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013:

Number
of
Contracts

2014
Recorded 
Investment 
(1)

Impact on the
Allowance for
Loan Losses

Number
of
Contracts

Recorded 
Investment 
(1)

Impact on the
Allowance for
Loan Losses

2013

Originated loans:

Residential real estate

Home equity lines of credit
Total

Acquired loans:

1 $

2
3 $

33 $

28
61 $

—

—
—

2 $

1
3 $

63 $

6
69 $

Residential real estate
Total
(1) The amounts shown are inclusive of all partial paydowns and charge-offs.  Loans modified in a TDR that were fully paid down,
charged-off or foreclosed upon by period end are not reported.

— $
— $

— $
— $

56 $
56 $

1 $
1 $

—
—

—

—
—

—
—

Peoples had approximately $40,000 of additional commitments to lend additional funds to the related borrowers whose terms 

have been modified in a TDR. 

90

Allowance for Loan Losses

Changes in the allowance for loan losses in the periods ended December 31, were as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)

Balance, January 1, 2014

Charge-offs

Recoveries

Net recoveries (charge-offs)

(Recovery of) provision for loan losses

Balance, December 31, 2014

Period-end amount allocated to:

Loans individually evaluated for

impairment

Loans collectively evaluated for

impairment

Balance, December 31, 2014

Balance, January 1, 2013

Charge-offs

Recoveries

Net recoveries (charge-offs)

(Recovery of) provision for loan losses

Balance, December 31, 2013

Period-end amount allocated to:

Loans individually evaluated for

impairment

Loans collectively evaluated for

impairment

Balance, December 31, 2013

Commercial
Real Estate

Commercial
and
Industrial

Residential
Real Estate

Home
Equity
Lines of
Credit Consumer

Deposit
Account
Overdrafts

Total

$

13,215 $

2,174 $

881 $

343 $

316 $

136 $ 17,065

(203)

2,060

1,857

(5,247)

(199)

77

(122)

1,984

(478)

169

(309)

1,055

(128)

36

(92)

443

(1,191)

697

(494)

1,765

(516)

(2,715)

153

3,192

(363)

339

477

339

9,825 $

4,036 $

1,627 $

694 $

1,587 $

112 $ 17,881

189 $

816 $

9 $

— $

— $

— $ 1,014

9,636

9,825 $

14,215 $

(1,053)

5,839

4,786

(5,786)

13,215 $

3,220

1,618

694

1,587

112

16,867

4,036 $

1,627 $

694 $

1,587 $

112 $ 17,881

1,733 $

801 $

479 $

438 $

145 $ 17,811

(44)

40

(4)

445

(621)

(162)

(1,084)

(527)

(3,491)

536

(85)

165

26

(136)

—

552

(532)

410

162

(365)

7,155

3,664

356

(4,410)

2,174 $

881 $

343 $

316 $

136 $ 17,065

83 $

575 $

— $

— $

— $

— $

658

13,132

13,215 $

1,599

2,174 $

881

343

881 $

343 $

316

316 $

136

16,407

136 $ 17,065

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

The reduction in the allowance for loan losses allocated to commercial real estate, and related recovery of loan losses 

recorded during 2014 was driven by net recoveries in recent years reducing the historical loss rates.  Increases in commercial and 
industrial, residential real estate, home equity lines of credit and consumer categories of the allowance for loan losses, and related 
provision for loan losses recorded during 2014 were driven by net charge-off activity and increases in these respective loan 
portfolios.

91

Note 5.   Bank Premises and Equipment

The major categories of bank premises and equipment and accumulated depreciation at December 31 are summarized as 

follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
Land

Building and premises

Furniture, fixtures and equipment

Total bank premises and equipment

Accumulated depreciation

Net book value

2014

2013

$

7,612

$

48,402

22,323

78,337
(38,002)
40,335

$

$

6,802

38,281

20,350

65,433
(35,624)
29,809

Peoples depreciates its building and premises and furniture, fixtures and equipment over estimated useful lives generally 

ranging from 5 to 40 years and 2 to 10 years, respectively.  Depreciation expense was $3.0 million, $2.6 million and $2.2 
million, in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Leases

Peoples leases certain banking facilities and equipment under various agreements with original terms providing for fixed 

monthly payments over periods generally ranging from two to ten years.  Certain leases contain renewal options and rent 
escalation clauses calling for rent increases over the term of the lease.  All leases which contain a rent escalation clause are 
accounted for on a straight-line basis. Rent expense was $951,000, $950,000, $887,000 in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Peoples Insurance Agency, LLC ("Peoples Insurance") previously leased a property from certain of its managers, 

however, in 2014 this lease expired and was not renewed.  Payments related to this lease totaled $64,000, $151,000 and 
$146,000 in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.  The terms of the lease were substantially the same as those offered for 
comparable transactions with non-related parties at the time the lease transaction was consummated.

The future minimum payments under noncancellable operating leases with initial or remaining terms of one year or more 

consisted of the following at December 31, 2014: 

(Dollars in thousands)

Payments

$

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

Thereafter

Total future operating lease payments

$

786

683

441

354

135

4
2,403

Note 6.   Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

The following table details changes in the recorded amount of goodwill for the years ended December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)

Goodwill, beginning of year

Acquired goodwill
Goodwill, end of year

2014

2013

$

$

70,520 $

28,042
98,562 $

64,881

5,639
70,520

92

  
Peoples performed the required goodwill impairment tests and concluded there was no impairment in the recorded value 

of goodwill in 2014, based upon the estimated fair value of the single reporting unit.

Other intangible assets

Other intangible assets were comprised of the following at December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)

Core Deposits

Customer
Relationships

Total

2014

Gross intangibles

Acquired intangibles
Accumulated amortization
Total acquired intangibles

Servicing rights

Total other intangibles

2013
Gross intangibles
Acquired intangibles
Accumulated amortization
Total acquired intangibles

Servicing rights

Total other intangibles

$

$

$

$

2,226

$

8,646

$

4,787
(1,156)
5,857

7,195
1,565
(6,815)
1,945

$

$

$

212
(6,357)
2,501

6,189
2,458
(5,804)
2,843

$

$

$

$

$

10,872

4,999
(7,513)
8,358
2,238
10,596

13,384
4,023
(12,619)
4,788
2,295
7,083

The following table details estimated aggregate future amortization expense of core deposit and customer relationship 

intangible assets at December 31, 2014:

Core
Deposits

Customer
Relationships

Total

(Dollars in thousands)
2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

Thereafter
Total

$

1,445

$

1,238

1,030

820

609

715
5,857

$

$

527

476

419

358

291

430
2,501

$

$

1,972

1,714

1,449

1,178

900

1,145
8,358

For further information regarding Peoples' acquisitions, please refer to Note 17.

The following is an analysis of activity of servicing rights for the years ended December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
Balance, beginning of year
Amortization
Servicing rights originated
Servicing rights acquired
Balance, end of year

2014

2013

2012

$

$

2,295
(597)
497
43
2,238

$

$

2,073
(652)
675
199
2,295

$

$

1,544
(616)
1,145
—
2,073  

No valuation allowances were required at December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 for Peoples’ servicing rights since the fair 

value equaled or exceeded the book value.

93

 
 
 
 
Note 7.   Deposits

Peoples’ deposit balances were comprised of the following at December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
Retail certificates of deposit:

$250,000 or more

Less than $250,000

Total retail certificates of deposit

Interest-bearing transaction accounts

Money market deposit accounts

Governmental deposit accounts

Savings accounts

2014

2013

$

59,031 $

63,891

373,532

432,563

173,659

337,387

161,305

295,307

299,335

363,226

134,618

275,801

132,379

215,802

Total retail interest-bearing deposits

1,400,221

1,121,826

Brokered certificates of deposits

Total interest-bearing deposits

Non-interest-bearing deposits

Total deposit balances

39,691

49,041

1,439,912
493,162

1,170,867
409,891

$ 1,933,074 $ 1,580,758  

The contractual maturities of certificates of deposits for each of the next five years and thereafter are as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

Thereafter

Total maturities $

Retail

Brokered

Total

$

234,810 $

5,899 $

240,709

100,523

18,148

118,671

44,464

31,982

20,386

—

1,147

14,497

398
432,563 $

—
39,691 $

44,464

33,129

34,883

398
472,254  

Deposits from related parties approximated $34.0 million and $5.9 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

94

 
 
 
Note 8.   Short-Term Borrowings

Peoples utilizes various short-term borrowings as sources of funds, which are summarized as follows at December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
2014
Ending balance
Average balance
Highest month-end balance
Interest expense
Weighted-average interest rate:

End of year
During the year

2013
Ending balance
Average balance
Highest month-end balance
Interest expense
Weighted-average interest rate:

End of year
During the year

2012
Ending balance
Average balance
Highest month-end balance
Interest expense
Weighted-average interest rate:

End of year
During the year

Retail
Repurchase
Agreements

FHLB
Advances

Other
Short-Term
Borrowings

$

$

$

$

$

$

73,277
59,324
76,459
99

0.17%
0.17%

42,590
37,077
46,850
58

0.16%
0.16%

32,769
37,386
44,905
57

$

$

$

15,000
36,678
108,000
47

0.14%
0.13%

71,000
44,127
92,500
55

0.14%
0.12%

15,000
13,240
39,900
17

—
38
—
—

—%
0.75%

—
90
—
1

—%
0.74%

—
15
—
—

0.15%
0.15%

0.15%
0.12%

—%
0.74%

Peoples’ retail repurchase agreements consist of overnight agreements with Peoples’ commercial customers and serve as 

a cash management tool.

The FHLB advances consist of overnight borrowings and other advances with an original maturity of one year or 

less.  These advances, along with the long-term advances disclosed in Note 9, are collateralized by residential mortgage loans 
and investment securities.  Peoples’ borrowing capacity with the FHLB is based on the amount of collateral pledged and the 
amount of FHLB common stock owned.

Other short-term borrowings consist of Federal Funds purchased and advances from the Federal Reserve Discount 
Window.  Federal Funds purchased are short-term borrowings from correspondent banks that typically mature within one to 
ninety days.  Peoples has available Federal Funds of $20 million from certain of its correspondent banks.  Interest on Federal 
Funds purchased is set daily by the correspondent bank based on prevailing market rates.  The Federal Reserve Discount 
Window provides credit facilities to financial institutions, which are designed to ensure adequate liquidity by providing a 
source of short-term funds.  Discount Window advances are typically overnight and must be secured by collateral acceptable 
to the lending Federal Reserve Bank.

On December 19, 2012, Peoples obtained a $5 million revolving credit loan from an unaffiliated financial institution, and 

on August 4, 2014, the revolving credit loan amount was increased to $10 million.  This loan bears interest at a fixed per 
annum rate equal to 3% plus the one-month LIBOR rate, to be reset monthly.  This revolving credit loan is subject to the 
same covenants as detailed in Note 9 for the term loan.  At December 31, 2014 and 2013, this revolving credit loan had no 
outstanding principal balance.

95

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note 9.   Long-Term Borrowings

Long-term borrowings consisted of the following at December 31:

2014

2013

(Dollars in thousands)
Term note payable (parent company)

Callable national market repurchase agreements

FHLB putable non-amortizing, fixed rate advances

FHLB amortizing, fixed rate advances

Total long-term borrowings

Balance

14,369

40,000

83,995

40,719
179,083

$

$

Weighted-
Average
Rate

Weighted-
Average
Rate

Balance

3.50 % $

3.63 %

3.30 %

19,147

40,000

50,000

2.13 %
3.12% $

12,679
121,826

3.80 %

3.63 %

3.32 %

3.58 %
3.53%

On December 18, 2012, Peoples entered into a Loan Agreement (the "Loan Agreement") to obtain a $24 million 

unsecured term loan from an unaffiliated financial institution with an original maturity of five years.  On August 4, 2014, the 
Loan Agreement was amended (as amended, the "Amended Loan Agreement").  Under the Amended Loan Agreement, the 
interest rate on the term loan was reduced from 3.80% to 3.50%, and certain loan covenants related to the operations of 
Peoples' business were modified under the Amended Loan Agreement.  Peoples is required to make quarterly principal and 
interest payments until the earlier of either full prepayment by Peoples or the stated maturity date.  This note may be prepaid 
at any time prior to maturity without penalties, so long as no default has occurred.  Concurrently, Peoples also entered into a 
Negative Pledge Agreement that precludes Peoples from selling, transferring, assigning, mortgaging, encumbering, pledging, 
or entering into a negative pledge agreement with respect to or otherwise disposing of any interest in the capital stock or 
other ownership interests owned by Peoples in its subsidiaries without prior written approval.  Peoples is also subject to 
certain covenants under the Amended Loan Agreement, which include restrictions on ownership interests of its subsidiaries; 
cash and cash equivalents; transfers of criticized, classified or nonperforming assets; additional indebtedness; certain material 
transactions; and other financial covenants which include:

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Peoples and Peoples Bank must maintain, as of the last day of each fiscal quarter, sufficient capital to 
qualify as "well capitalized" under applicable regulatory guidance;

Peoples Bank must maintain a "Total Risk-Based Capital Ratio" (as defined in the Loan Agreement) equal 
to or in excess of 12.50%, measured as of the last day of each fiscal quarter;

Peoples Bank must maintain a ratio of "Nonperforming Assets" to the sum of "Tangible Capital" plus the 
"Allowance for Loan Losses" (as each term is defined in the Loan Agreement) of not more than 20%, 
measured as of the last day of each fiscal quarter;

Peoples must maintain a "Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio" (as defined in the Amended Loan Agreement) that 
equals or exceeds 1.25 to 1.00, commencing with the quarter ended December 31, 2012 and for each 
quarter thereafter, with the items used in the ratio determined on a trailing 12-month basis;

issuance of dividends from Peoples Bank may not exceed the amount permitted by law without requiring 
regulatory approval; 

•  minimum liquidity position of $2 million at Peoples Bancorp Inc.; and

• 

Peoples Bank must maintain a ratio of "Allowance for Loan Losses" to "Nonperforming Loans" (as each 
term is defined in the Amended Loan Agreement) of not less than 70% measured as of the last day of each 
fiscal quarter.

As of December 31, 2014, Peoples was in compliance with the applicable material covenants imposed by the Amended 

Loan Agreement.

Peoples' national market repurchase agreements consist of agreements with unrelated financial service companies and 
have original maturities ranging from five to ten years.  In general, these agreements may not be terminated by Peoples prior 
to maturity without incurring additional costs.  The callable agreements contain call option features, in which the buyer has 
the right, at its discretion, to terminate the repurchase agreement after an initial period ranging from three months to five 
years.  After the initial call period, the buyer has a one-time option to terminate the agreement.  If the buyer exercises its 

96

 
option, Peoples would be required to repay the agreement in whole at the quarterly date.  Peoples is required to make 
quarterly interest payments.

The putable, non-amortizing, fixed rate FHLB advances have original maturities ranging from ten to twenty years that 
may be repaid prior to maturity, subject to termination fees.  The FHLB has the option, solely at its discretion, to terminate 
the advance after the initial fixed rate periods ranging from three months to five years, requiring full repayment of the 
advance by Peoples, prior to the stated maturity.  If the advance is terminated prior to maturity, the FHLB will offer Peoples 
replacement funding at the then-prevailing rate on an advance product then-offered by the FHLB, subject to normal FHLB 
credit and collateral requirements.  These advances require monthly interest payments, with no repayment of principal until 
the earlier of either an option exercise by the FHLB or the stated maturity.  During 2014, Peoples obtained two FHLB 
amortizing, fixed-rate advances, totaling $30 million.  The amortizing, fixed rate FHLB advances have a fixed rate for the 
term of the loan, with maturities ranging from ten to twenty years.  These advances require monthly principal and interest 
payments, with some having a constant prepayment rate requiring an additional principal payment annually.  These advances 
are not eligible for optional prepayment prior to maturity.  As discussed in Note 8, long-term FHLB advances are 
collateralized by assets owned by Peoples. 

At December 31, 2014, the aggregate minimum annual retirements of long-term borrowings in future periods were as 

follows:

(Dollars in thousands)

Balance

Weighted-
Average Rate

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

Thereafter

Total long-term borrowings

$

$

14,377

11,980

10,107

44,700

43,233

54,686
179,083

2.43 %

2.56 %

2.71 %

3.24 %

3.51 %

3.08 %
3.12%

97

Note 10.   Stockholders’ Equity 

The following table details the activity in Peoples’ common stock and treasury stock during the years ended 

December 31:

Shares at December 31, 2011
Changes related to stock-based compensation awards:
   Release of restricted common shares
Changes related to deferred compensation plan for Board of Directors:
   Purchase of treasury stock
   Reissuance of treasury stock
Common shares issued under dividend reinvestment plan
Common shares issued under compensation plan for Board of Directors
Shares at December 31, 2012
Changes related to stock-based compensation awards:
   Release of restricted common shares
Changes related to deferred compensation plan for Board of Directors:
   Purchase of treasury stock
   Reissuance of treasury stock
Common shares issued under dividend reinvestment plan
Common shares issued under compensation plan for Board of Directors
Shares at December 31, 2013
Changes related to stock-based compensation awards:

Release of restricted common shares
Exercise of stock options for common shares
Reissuance of treasury stock for common stock awards

Changes related to deferred compensation plan for Board of Directors:

Purchase of treasury stock
Reissuance of treasury stock

Common shares issued under dividend reinvestment plan
Common shares issued under compensation plan for Board of Directors
Issuance of common shares related to acquisitions:

Midwest Bancshares, Inc.
Ohio Heritage Bancorp, Inc.
North Akron Savings Bank

Common shares issued to institutional investors in private placement
Shares at December 31, 2014

Common
Stock
11,122,247

Treasury
Stock

615,123

14,552

4,270

3,918
(8,897)

(6,726)
607,688

18,849  

11,155,648

31,246

6,862

3,652
(9,147)

(8,261)
600,794

18,031
(2,792)
(12,030)

4,236
(9,390)

(8,603)

590,246

19,682  

11,206,576

68,754

17,230  

256,282
1,364,735
665,570
1,847,826
15,426,973

On August 7, 2014, Peoples announced the completion of the sale of 1,847,826 common shares at $23.00 per share to 
institutional investors through a private placement (the "Private Equity Issuance").  Peoples received net proceeds of $40.2 
million from the sale, and intends to use the proceeds, in part, to fund the cash consideration for the NB&T Financial Group, 
Inc. (“NB&T”) acquisition.

Under its Amended Articles of Incorporation, Peoples is authorized to issue up to 50,000 preferred shares, in one or more 
series, having such voting powers, designations, preferences, rights, qualifications, limitations and restrictions as determined 
by the Board of Directors.  In 2009, Peoples’ Board of Directors created a series of preferred shares designated as Peoples’ 
Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Shares, Series A, each without par value and having a liquidation preference of 
$1,000 per share, and fixed 39,000 shares as the authorized number of such shares (the “Series A Preferred Shares”).  These 
Series A Preferred Shares subsequently were sold to the United States Department of the Treasury (the “U.S. Treasury”), 
along with a ten-year warrant (the “Warrant”) to purchase 313,505 Peoples common shares at an exercise price of $18.66 per 
share (subject to certain anti-dilution and other adjustments), for an aggregate purchase price of $39 million in cash in 
connection with Peoples’ participation in the U.S. Treasury’s TARP Capital Purchase Program.  The entire 39,000 Series A 

98

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Preferred Shares were repurchased during 2011 at an aggregate price of $39 million.  Peoples repurchased the Warrant for a 
purchase price of $1.2 million in 2012.

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

The following details the change in the components of Peoples’ accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for the 

years ended December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
Balance, December 31, 2011
Other comprehensive loss, net of reclassifications and tax
Balance, December 31, 2012
Reclassification adjustments to net income:
  Realized gain on sale of securities, net of tax
  Realized loss due to settlement and curtailment, net of tax
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of reclassifications and tax
Balance, December 31, 2013
Reclassification adjustments to net income:
  Realized gain on sale of securities, net of tax
  Realized loss due to settlement and curtailment, net of tax
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of reclassifications and tax
Balance, December 31, 2014

Note 11.   Employee Benefit Plans 

Unrealized
Gain (Loss) on
Securities

Unrecognized
Net Pension and
Postretirement
Costs

Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)

$

$

$

$

7,439 $
(547)
6,892 $

(318)
—
(16,335)
(9,761) $

(259)
—
12,562
2,542 $

(6,027) $
(211)
(6,238) $

—
175
2,580
(3,483) $

—
910
(1,270)
(3,843) $

1,412
(758)
654

(318)
175
(13,755)
(13,244)

(259)
910
11,292
(1,301)

Peoples sponsors a noncontributory defined benefit pension plan that covers substantially all employees hired before 
January 1, 2010.  The plan provides retirement benefits based on an employee’s years of service and compensation.   For 
employees hired before January 1, 2003, the amount of postretirement benefit is based on the employee’s average monthly 
compensation pay over the highest five consecutive years out of the employee’s last ten years with Peoples while an eligible 
employee.  For employees hired on or after January 1, 2003, the amount of postretirement benefit is based on 2% of the 
employee’s annual compensation plus accrued interest.  Effective January 1, 2010, the pension plan was closed to new 
entrants.  Effective March 1, 2011, the accrual of pension plan benefits for all participants was frozen.  Peoples recognized 
this freeze as a curtailment as of December 31, 2010 and March 1, 2011, under the terms of the pension plan.  Effective July 
1, 2013, a participant in the pension plan who is employed by Peoples may elect to receive or to commence receiving such 
person's retirement benefits as of the later of such person's normal retirement date or the first day of the month first following 
the date such person makes an election to receive his or her retirement benefits.

Peoples also provides post-retirement health and life insurance benefits to former employees and directors.  Only those 
individuals who retired before January 27, 2012 were eligible for life insurance benefits.  All retirees are eligible for health 
benefits; however, Peoples only pays 100% of the cost for those individuals who retired before January 1, 1993.  For all 
others, the retiree is responsible for most, if not all, of the cost of health benefits.  Peoples’ policy is to fund the cost of the 
benefits as they arise.

99

The following tables provide a reconciliation of the changes in the plans’ benefit obligations and fair value of assets over 

the two-year period ended December 31, 2014, and a statement of the funded status as of December 31, 2014 and 2013:

(Dollars in thousands)

Change in benefit obligation:

Obligation at January 1

Interest cost

Plan participants’ contributions

Actuarial loss (gain)

Benefit payments

Settlements

Obligation at December 31

Pension Benefits

Postretirement
Benefits

2014

2013

2014

2013

$ 14,723

$ 17,306

$

143

$

509

—

2,060
(163)
(3,434)
$ 13,695

543

—
(2,333)
(154)
(639)
$ 14,723

$ 11,287

$ 10,019

569

—

2,061

—

—
(163)
(3,434)
8,259

—
(154)
(639)
$ 11,287
$
$ (5,436) $ (3,436)

6

46

26
(69)
—

152

$

— $

— $

—

23

46
(69)
—

— $
(152) $

$

$

$

$

$

$

— $

— $

(5,436)

(3,436)
$ (5,436) $ (3,436)

$

— $

(152)
(152) $

$

$

— $

— $

3,886

3,886

$

3,533

3,533

$

(2) $
(43)
(45) $

244

5

40
(85)
(61)
—

143

—

—

—

21

40
(61)
—

—
(143)

—
(143)
(143)

(2)
(65)
(67)

3.50%

4.30%

3.50%

4.30%

Accumulated benefit obligation at December 31

$ 13,695

$ 14,723

Change in plan assets:

Fair value of plan assets at January 1

Actual return on plan assets

Employer contributions

Plan participants’ contributions

Benefit payments

Settlements

Fair value of plan assets at December 31

Funded status at December 31
Amounts recognized in Consolidated Balance Sheets:

Prepaid benefit costs

Accrued benefit liability

Net amount recognized

Amounts recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
(Loss):

Unrecognized prior service cost

Unrecognized net loss

Total

Weighted-average assumptions at year-end:

Discount rate

The estimated costs relating to Peoples’ pension benefits that will be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive 

income (loss) into net periodic cost over the next fiscal year are $147,000 of net loss.

100

 
 
 
 
 
 
Net Periodic Benefit Cost

The following tables detail the components of the net periodic benefit cost for the plans at December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
Service cost
Interest cost
Expected return on plan assets
Amortization of prior service cost (credit)
Amortization of net loss (gain)
Curtailment
Settlement of benefit obligation
Net periodic benefit cost

Weighted-average assumptions:
Discount rate
Expected return on plan assets
Rate of compensation increase

Pension Benefits
2013

2012

2014

$ — $ — $

509
(589)
—
137
—
1,400
$ 1,457

$

543
(659)
—
189
—
270
343

$

2014

2013

Postretirement Benefits
2012
— $ — $ — $ —
10
599
(756)
—
—
—
(2)
162
—
—
—
835
8
840

6
—
—
(8)
—
—
(2) $

5
—
—
(7)
—
—
(2) $

$

3.70%
7.50%
n/a

3.75%
7.50%
n/a

4.00% 4.30%
n/a
7.50%
n/a
n/a

3.30%
n/a
n/a

4.00%
n/a
n/a

For measurement purposes, an 7.5% annual rate of increase in the per capita cost of covered benefits (i.e., health care 

cost trend rate) was assumed for 2014, grading down to an ultimate rate of  4%  in 2064.  The health care trend rate 
assumption does not have a significant effect on the contributory defined benefit postretirement plan; therefore, a one 
percentage point increase or decrease in the trend rate is not material in the determination of the accumulated postretirement 
benefit obligation or the ongoing expense.

Under US GAAP, Peoples is required to recognize a settlement gain or loss when the aggregate amount of lump-sum 
distributions to participants equals or exceeds the sum of the service and interest cost components of the net periodic pension 
cost.  The amount of settlement gain or loss recognized is the pro rata amount of the unrealized gain or loss existing 
immediately prior to the settlement.  In general, both the projected benefit obligation and fair value of plan assets are required 
to be remeasured in order to determine the settlement gain or loss.  

During each quarter of 2014, the total lump-sum distributions made to participants caused the total settlements to exceed 

the recognition threshold for settlement gains or losses.  As a result, Peoples remeasured its pension obligation and plan 
assets as of the beginning of each fiscal quarter of 2014 as part of the calculation of the settlement loss recognized.

Determination of Expected Long-term Rate of Return

The expected long-term rate of return on the plans' total assets is based on the expected return of each category of the 
plan's assets.  Peoples' investment strategy for the plan's assets continues to allocate 60% to 75% to equity securities.  The 
returns generated by equity securities over the last 10 years have been significantly lower than their long-term historical 
annual returns due in part to unfavorable economic conditions. 

Plan Assets

Peoples' investment strategy, as established by Peoples' Retirement Plan Committee, is to invest assets based upon 

established target allocations, which include a target range of 60-75% allocation in equity securities, 20-43% in debt 
securities and approximately 1% of other investments.  The assets are reallocated periodically to meet the target allocations.  
The investment policy is reviewed periodically, under the advisement of a certified investment advisor, to determine if the 
policy should be changed.  

101

 
The following table provides the fair values of investments held in Peoples' pension plan at December 31, by major asset 

category:

(Dollars in thousands)
2014

Equity securities:

Mutual funds - equity

Debt securities:

Mutual funds - taxable income
Total fair value of pension assets

2013

Equity securities:

Mutual funds - equity

Debt securities:

Mortgage-backed securities

Municipal obligations

Corporate bonds

Mutual funds - taxable income
Total fair value of pension assets

$

$

$

$

Quoted Prices in 
Active Markets for 
Identical Assets
(Level 1)

Significant Other 
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)

Fair Value

5,756

$

5,756

$

2,128
7,884

$

2,128
7,884

$

8,863

$

8,863

$

97

649

357

—

—

357

901
10,867

$

901
10,121

$

—

—
—

—

97

649

—

—
746

Pension plan assets also included cash and cash equivalents of $373,000 and accrued income of $2,000 at December 31, 

2014.  Cash and cash equivalents were $400,000 and accrued income was $20,000 at December 31, 2013.  For further 
information regarding levels of input used to measure fair value, please refer to Note 2.

Equity securities of Peoples' pension plan did not include any securities of Peoples or related parties in 2014 or 2013.

Cash Flows

Peoples has not determined if any contributions will be made to its pension plan in 2015; however, actual contributions 

are made at the discretion of the Retirement Plan Committee and Peoples' Board of Directors.  Estimated future benefit 
payments, which reflect benefits attributable to estimated future service, for the years ending December 31 are as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)

Pension Benefits

Postretirement
Benefits

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020 to 2024
Total

$

$

$

1,145

1,132

934

963

877

4,256
9,307

$

23

23

14

13

13

52
138

Retirement Savings Plan

Peoples also maintains a retirement savings plan, or 401(k) plan, which covers substantially all employees.  The plan 
provides participants the opportunity to save for retirement on a tax-deferred basis.  During 2009 and in prior years, Peoples 
made matching contributions equal to 100% of participants' contributions that did not exceed 3% of the participants' 
compensation, plus 50% of participants' contributions between 3% and 5% of the participants' compensation.  Effective 
January 1, 2010, Peoples began making matching contributions equal to 100% of participants' contributions that do not 
exceed 2% of the participants' compensation.  Beginning January 1, 2011, matching contributions  equaled 100% of 
participants' contributions that did not exceed 3% of the participants' compensation, plus 50% of participants' contributions 

102

 
 
 
 
 
 
between 3% and 5% of the participants' compensation.  Matching contributions made by Peoples totaled $1,048,000, 
$924,000 and $758,000 in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Note 12.   Income Taxes

The reported income tax expense and effective tax rate in the Consolidated Statements of Income differs from the 

amounts computed by applying the statutory corporate tax rate as follows for the years ended December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)

Amount

Rate

Amount

Rate

Amount

Rate

Income tax computed at statutory federal tax rate

$

8,462

35.0 % $ 10,179

35.0 % $ 10,469

35.0 %

2014

2013

2012

Differences in rate resulting from:

Tax-exempt interest income

Investments in tax credit funds

Bank owned life insurance

Other, net

Total income tax expense

(726)

(481)

(3.0)%

(2.0)%

(37) — %

(645)
(314)
2,183

(2.2)%

(1.1)%

7.5 %

276
7,494

$

107
1.0 %
31.0 % $ 11,510

0.4 %
39.6 % $

(565)
(387)
(14)
22
9,525

(1.9)%

(1.3)%

(0.1)%

0.1 %
31.8 %

Peoples' reported income tax expense consisted of the following for the years ended December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
Current income tax
Deferred income tax

Total income tax expense

2014

2013

2012

$

$

3,659
3,835
7,494

$

$

6,883
4,627
11,510

$

$

5,004
4,521
9,525

The significant components of Peoples' deferred tax assets and liabilities consisted of the following at December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
Deferred tax assets:

Allowance for loan losses
Available-for-sale securities
Investments
Accrued employee benefits
Other

Total deferred tax assets

Deferred tax liabilities:

Purchase accounting adjustments
Available-for-sale securities
Bank premises and equipment
Deferred loan income
Other

Total deferred tax liabilities
Net deferred tax asset

2014

2013

10,493
—
1,956
2,662
1,146
16,257

6,316
1,368
2,470
1,924
684
12,762
3,495

$

$

$
$

8,014
5,257
3,536
2,108
769
19,684

6,442
—
1,968
1,769
691
10,870
8,814

$

$

$
$

The tax credit carryforward at December 31, 2013 was fully utilized in 2013.  No valuation allowance for deferred tax 
assets was required at December 31, 2014, as it is more likely than not that all of the deferred tax assets will be realized in 
future periods.  The related federal income tax expense on securities transactions approximated $139,000 in 2014, $171,000 
in 2013 and $1.2 million in 2012.

Income tax benefits are recognized in the consolidated financial statements for a tax position only if it is considered 
"more likely than not" of being sustained on audit, based solely on the technical merits of the income tax position.  If the 
recognition criteria are met, the amount of income tax benefits to be recognized are measured based on the largest income tax 

103

 
 
 
 
 
benefit that is more than 50 percent likely to be realized on ultimate resolution of the tax position.  The following table 
provides a reconciliation of uncertain tax positions at December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
Uncertain tax positions, beginning of year

Gross increase based on tax positions related to current year
Gross increase for tax position taken during prior years
Gross decrease due to the statute of limitations

Uncertain tax positions, end of year

2014

30
178
33
(1)
240

$

$

Peoples' income tax returns are subject to review and examination by federal and state taxing authorities.  Peoples is 

currently open to audit under the applicable statutes of limitations by the Internal Revenue Service for the years after 
December 31, 2011.   The years open to examination by state taxing authorities vary by jurisdiction.

Note 13.   Earnings Per Common Share 

The calculations of basic and diluted earnings per common share for the years ended December 31 were as follows:  

(Dollars in thousands, except per common share data)

2014

2013

2012

Distributed earnings allocated to common shareholders

Undistributed earnings allocated to common shareholders

Net earnings allocated to common shareholders

$

$

7,095 $

5,749 $

9,472

11,685

16,567 $

17,434 $

4,770

15,494

20,264

Weighted-average common shares outstanding

12,183,352

10,581,222

10,527,885

Effect of potentially dilutive common shares

122,872

98,195

401

Total weighted-average diluted common shares outstanding 12,306,224

10,679,417

10,528,286

Earnings per common share:

Basic

Diluted

$

$

1.36 $

1.35 $

1.65 $

1.63 $

1.92

1.92

Anti-dilutive common shares excluded from calculation:

Stock options and stock appreciation rights

55,184

91,902

144,535

Note 14.   Financial Instruments with Off-Balance Sheet Risk

In the normal course of business, Peoples is party to financial instruments with off-balance sheet risk necessary to meet 
the financing needs of customers.  These financial instruments include commitments to extend credit and standby letters of 
credit.  The instruments involve, to varying degrees, elements of credit risk in excess of the amount recognized in the 
Consolidated Balance Sheets.  The contract amounts of these instruments express the extent of involvement Peoples has in 
these financial instruments.

Loan Commitments and Standby Letters of Credit

Loan commitments are made to accommodate the financial needs of Peoples' customers.  Standby letters of credit are 
instruments issued by Peoples Bank guaranteeing the beneficiary payment by Peoples Bank in the event of default by Peoples 
Bank's customer in the nonperformance of an obligation or service.  Historically, most loan commitments and standby letters 
of credit expire unused.  Peoples' exposure to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by the counter-party to the financial 
instrument for loan commitments and standby letters of credit is represented by the contractual amount of those instruments.  
Peoples uses the same underwriting standards in making commitments and conditional obligations as it does for on-balance 
sheet instruments.  The amount of collateral obtained is based on management's credit evaluation of the customer.  Collateral 
held varies, but may include accounts receivable, inventory, property, plant, and equipment, and income-producing 
commercial properties.  

104

The total amounts of loan commitments and standby letters of credit at December 31 are summarized as follows:

 (Dollars in thousands)
Home equity lines of credit
Unadvanced construction loans
Other loan commitments
Loan commitments

Standby letters of credit

2014

2013

62,704 $
46,781
173,746
283,231

49,533
30,203
137,661
217,397

30,837 $

33,998

$

$

Interest Rate Swaps

Peoples maintains an interest rate protection program for commercial loan customers, which was established in 2010.  
Under this program, Peoples provides its customer with a fixed-rate loan while creating a variable-rate asset for Peoples by 
the customer entering into an interest rate swap with Peoples on terms that match the loan.  Peoples offsets its risk exposure 
by entering into an offsetting interest rate swap with an unaffiliated institution. These interest rate swaps do not qualify as 
designated hedges; therefore, each swap is accounted for as a standalone derivative.  Peoples had interest rate swaps 
associated with commercial loans with a notional value of $44.0 million and fair value of $2.1 million at December 31, 2014, 
and a notional value of $14.7 million and fair value of $0.7 million at December 31, 2013.  These interest rate swaps did not 
have a material impact on Peoples' results of operation or financial condition. 

Note 15.   Regulatory Matters

The following is a summary of certain regulatory matters affecting Peoples and its subsidiaries: 

Federal Reserve Requirements

Peoples Bank is required to maintain a minimum level of reserves, consisting of cash on hand and non-interest-bearing 

balances with the FRB, based on the amount of deposit liabilities.  Average required reserve balances were approximately 
$12.2 million and $11.2 million in 2014 and 2013, respectively.

Limits on Dividends

The primary source of funds for the dividends paid by Peoples is dividends received from Peoples Bank.  The payment 
of dividends by Peoples Bank is subject to various banking regulations.  The most restrictive provision requires regulatory 
approval if dividends declared in any calendar year exceed the total net profits of that year plus the retained net profits of the 
preceding two years.  At December 31, 2014, Peoples Bank had approximately $4.8 million of net profits available for 
distribution to Peoples as dividends without regulatory approval.

Capital Requirements

Peoples and Peoples Bank are subject to various regulatory capital guidelines administered by the banking regulatory 

agencies.  Under capital adequacy requirements and the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action, Peoples and 
Peoples Bank must meet specific capital guidelines that involve quantitative measures of each entity's assets, liabilities, and 
certain off-balance sheet items as calculated under regulatory accounting practices.  Peoples' and Peoples Bank's capital 
amounts and classification are also subject to qualitative judgments by the regulators about components, risk weightings and 
other factors.  Failure to meet future minimum capital requirements can initiate certain mandatory and possibly additional 
discretionary actions by the regulators that, if undertaken, could have a material effect on Peoples' financial results.

Quantitative measures established by regulation to ensure capital adequacy, and in effect at December 31, 2014, required 
Peoples and Peoples Bank to maintain minimum amounts and ratios of Total and Tier I capital (as defined in the regulations) 
to risk-weighted assets (as defined), and of Tier I capital (as defined) to average assets (as defined).  Peoples and Peoples 
Bank met all capital adequacy requirements at December 31, 2014.

As of December 31, 2014, the most recent notifications from the banking regulatory agencies categorized Peoples and 

Peoples Bank as well capitalized under the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action.  To be categorized as well 
capitalized, Peoples and Peoples Bank must maintain minimum Total risk-based, Tier I risk-based and Tier I leverage ratios 
as set forth in the table below.  There are no conditions or events since these notifications that management believes have 
changed Peoples or Peoples Bank's category.

105

Peoples and Peoples Bank's actual capital amounts and ratios as of December 31 are also presented in the following 

table:

2014

2013

Amount

Ratio

Amount

Ratio

(Dollars in thousands)
PEOPLES
Total Capital (1)
Actual
For capital adequacy
To be well capitalized
Tier 1 (2)
Actual
For capital adequacy
To be well capitalized
Tier 1 Leverage (3)
Actual
For capital adequacy
To be well capitalized
Net Risk-Weighted Assets

$

$

261,371
135,037
168,797

241,707
67,519
101,278

$

241,707
97,470
121,837
$ 1,687,968

223,591
134,928
168,660

$

PEOPLES BANK
Total Capital (1)
Actual
For capital adequacy
To be well capitalized
Tier 1 (2)
Actual
For capital adequacy
To be well capitalized
Tier 1 Leverage (3)
Actual
For capital adequacy
To be well capitalized
Net Risk-Weighted Assets
(1)  Ratio represents total capital to net risk-weighted assets
(2)  Ratio represents Tier 1 capital to net risk-weighted assets
(3)  Ratio represents Tier 1 capital to average assets

$

$

205,710
97,333
121,666
$ 1,686,603

205,710
67,464
101,196

15.5% $
8.0%
10.0%

14.3% $
4.0%
6.0%

184,457
107,105
133,881

166,217
53,552
80,329

9.9% $
4.0%
5.0%

166,217
78,080
97,600
$ 1,338,811

13.3% $
8.0%
10.0%

12.2% $
4.0%
6.0%

188,814
106,961
133,701

172,097
53,480
80,220

8.5% $
4.0%
5.0%

172,097
77,830
97,288
$ 1,337,008

13.8%
8.0%
10.0%

12.4%
4.0%
6.0%

8.5%
4.0%
5.0%

14.1%
8.0%
10.0%

12.9%
4.0%
6.0%

8.8%
4.0%
5.0%

Note 16.   Stock-Based Compensation 

Under the Peoples Bancorp Inc. Second Amended and Restated 2006 Equity Plan (the “2006 Equity Plan”), Peoples may 

grant, among other awards, nonqualified stock options, incentive stock options, restricted stock awards, stock appreciation 
rights and unrestricted share awards to employees and non-employee directors.  The total number of common shares 
available under the 2006 Equity Plan is 1,081,260.  The maximum number of common shares that can be issued for incentive 
stock options is 800,000 common shares.  Prior to 2007, Peoples granted nonqualified and incentive stock options to 
employees and nonqualified stock options to non-employee directors under the 2006 Equity Plan and predecessor 
plans.  Since February 2007, Peoples has granted a combination of restricted common shares and stock appreciation rights 
(“SARs”) to be settled in common shares to employees and restricted common shares to non-employee directors subject to 
the terms and conditions prescribed by the 2006 Equity Plan.  In general, common shares issued in connection with stock-
based awards are issued from treasury shares to the extent available.  If no treasury shares are available, common shares are 
issued from authorized but unissued common shares.

106

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Stock Options

Under the provisions of the 2006 Equity Plan and predecessor stock option plans, the exercise price per share of any 

stock option granted may not be less than the grant date fair market value of the underlying common shares.  All stock 
options granted to both employees and non-employee directors expire ten years from the date of grant.  The most recent stock 
option grants to employees and non-employee directors occurred in 2006.  The stock options granted to employees vested 
three years after the grant date, while the stock options granted to non-employee directors vested six months after the grant 
date.  The following summarizes the changes to Peoples' outstanding stock options for the year ended December 31, 2014:

Number of
Common
Shares
Subject to
Options

Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price

Weighted-
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Life

Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value

Outstanding at January 1
Exercised
Expired

Outstanding at December 31
Exercisable at December 31

57,094
2,792
15,725
38,577
38,577

$

$
$

27.96
25.41
28.08
28.09
28.09

0.8 years
0.8 years

$
$

—
—

  The following table summarizes Peoples’ stock options outstanding at December 31, 2014:

Common
Shares Subject
to Options
Outstanding

Options Outstanding & Exercisable
Weighted-
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Life
0.2 years $
1.1 years
1.3 years
0.8 years $

Weighted-
Average
Exercise Price
26.86
28.25
29.40
28.09

13,680
13,697
11,200
38,577

Range of Exercise Prices
$27.74
to
$26.01
$28.26
to
$28.25
$28.57
$30.00
to
Total

Stock Appreciation Rights

SARs granted to employees have an exercise price equal to the fair market value of Peoples’ common shares on the date 
of grant and will be settled using common shares of Peoples.  Additionally, the SARs granted to employees vested three years 
after the grant date and are to expire ten years from the date of grant.  The most recent grant of SARs occurred in 2008.  The 
following summarizes the changes to Peoples' outstanding SARs for the year ended December 31, 2014:

Number of
Common
Shares
Subject to
SARs

Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price

Weighted-
Average
Remaining 
Contractual
Life

Aggregate 
Intrinsic
 Value

Outstanding at January 1

Outstanding at December 31
Exercisable at December 31

21,292
21,292
21,292

$
$
$

25.96
25.96
25.96

2.5 years
2.5 years

$
$

28,000
28,000

107

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The following table summarizes Peoples’ SARs outstanding at December 31, 2014:

Number of Common
Shares Subject to
SARs Outstanding &
Exercisable

Weighted-
Average Remaining 
Contractual
Life

2,000
10,582
8,710
21,292

2.6 years
2.9 years
2.0 years
2.5 years

Exercise
Price
$23.26
$23.77
$29.25

Total

Restricted Shares

 Under the 2006 Equity Plan, Peoples may award restricted common shares to officers, key employees and non-
employee directors.  In general, the restrictions on common shares awarded to non-employee directors expire after six 
months, while the restrictions on common shares awarded to employees expire after periods ranging from one to three years.  
During the first quarter of 2014, Peoples granted restricted common shares subject to performance-based vesting to officers 
and key employees with restrictions that will lapse one to three years after the grant date provided that in order for the 
restricted common shares to vest on each of the three foregoing dates, Peoples must have reported positive net income and 
maintained a well capitalized status by regulatory standards in the year immediately preceding the vesting date.  In the second 
quarter of 2014, Peoples granted restricted common shares to non-employee directors with a six months time-based vesting 
period.  In addition, Peoples has granted restricted common shares during 2014 to attract and/or retain key employees with 
vesting periods ranging from one to three years.

 The following summarizes the changes to Peoples’ outstanding restricted common shares for the year ended 

December 31, 2014:

Time Vesting

Performance Vesting

Outstanding at January 1
Awarded
Released
Forfeited
Outstanding at December 31

Number of
Common
Shares

Weighted-
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
17.18
24.60
18.07
—
19.48

60,206 $
18,412
31,027
—
47,591 $

Number of
Common
Shares

85,254 $
83,514
37,746
5,943
125,079 $

Weighted-
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
20.98
21.68
19.93
21.73
21.73  

The total intrinsic value of restricted common shares released was $1.6 million, $654,000 and $77,000 in 2014, 2013 and 

2012, respectively.

Stock-Based Compensation

Peoples recognized stock-based compensation expense, which is included as a component of Peoples’ salaries and 
employee benefit costs, based on the estimated fair value of the awards on the grant date.  The following summarizes the 
amount of stock-based compensation expense and related tax benefit recognized at December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
Total stock-based compensation
Recognized tax benefit

Net expense recognized

2014

2013

2012

$

$

2,111 $
(739)
1,372 $

1,362 $
(477)
885 $

942
(330)
612

Restricted common shares were the only stock-based compensation awards granted by Peoples in 2014, 2013 and 2012.  
The fair value of restricted stock awards on the grant date is the market price of Peoples' common shares.  Total unrecognized 
stock-based compensation expense related to unvested awards was $1.1 million at December 31, 2014, which will be 
recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.5 years.  In 2014, the Board of Directors granted 12,030 unrestricted 
common shares to certain employees that did not already participate in the 2006 Equity Plan, which resulted in an additional 
$298,000 of stock-based compensation expense being recognized.

108

 
 
Note 17.   Acquisitions

During 2014, Peoples completed several acquisitions, which were accounted for as business combinations under the 

acquisition method of accounting under US GAAP.  The assets purchased, liabilities assumed, and related identifiable 
intangible assets were recorded at their acquisition date fair values, and are detailed in the table below.  The goodwill 
recognized will not be deductible for income tax purposes.  The balances and operations related to these acquisitions are 
included in Peoples' consolidated financial statements from the date of acquisition. 

On May 30, 2014, Peoples completed its acquisition of Midwest Bancshares, Inc. ("Midwest") for total consideration of 

$12.6 million, which was settled 50% in cash and 50% in Peoples' common shares.  Midwest merged into Peoples, and 
Midwest's wholly-owned subsidiary, First National Bank of Wellston, which operated two full-service branches in Wellston 
and Jackson, Ohio, merged into Peoples Bank.

On August 22, 2014, Peoples completed its acquisition of Ohio Heritage Bancorp, Inc. ("Ohio Heritage") for total 
consideration of $37.7 million, which was settled 15% in cash and 85% in Peoples' common shares.  Ohio Heritage merged 
into Peoples, and Ohio Heritage's wholly-owned subsidiary, Ohio Heritage Bank, which operated six full-service branches in 
Coshocton, Newark, Heath, Mount Vernon and New Philadelphia, Ohio, merged into Peoples Bank.

On August 25, 2014, Peoples Insurance acquired an insurance agency and related customer accounts in the Pikeville, 
Kentucky area for total cash consideration of $0.3 million, and recorded $0.2 million of customer relationship intangibles and 
$0.1 million of goodwill.

On October 24, 2014, Peoples completed its acquisition of North Akron Savings Bank ("North Akron") for total 
consideration of $20.1 million, which was settled 20% in cash and 80% in Peoples' common shares.  North Akron, which 
operated four full-service branches in Akron, Cuyahoga Falls, Munroe Falls and Norton, Ohio, merged into Peoples Bank.

109

The following table provides the purchase price calculation as of the dates of acquisition for the three bank acquisitions, 

and the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at their estimated fair values. 

(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
Purchase Price

Midwest

Ohio Heritage

North Akron

Common shares outstanding at merger announcement

192,500

342,458

Cash purchase price per share

    Cash consideration

Number of common shares of Peoples issued for each common
share of acquired company

Price per Peoples common share, based on merger agreement

    Common share consideration

    Total purchase price

Net Assets at Fair Value

Assets
  Cash and cash equivalents

  Investment securities

  Loans, including loans held for sale, net of deferred fees and costs

  Bank premises and equipment, net

  Other intangible assets

  Other assets

    Total assets

Liabilities

  Deposits

  Borrowings

  Accrued expenses and other liabilities

    Total liabilities

Net assets
Goodwill

$

$

$

$

$
$

2,630

1,531.00

4,027

253.06

24.20

16,106

20,133

11,028

17,597

111,525

1,815

1,389

1,090

32.75 $

6,304

1.33

24.60 $

6,305

12,609 $

16.50 $

5,650

3.99

23.46 $

32,020

37,670 $

3,562 $

18,231 $

23,198

58,716

1,446

976

1,089

88,987

77,945

—

109

78,054

10,933 $
1,676 $

28,865

175,800

4,943

2,421

9,330

239,590

144,444

174,881

42,440

2,646

219,967

19,623 $
18,047 $

108,102

24,209

212

132,523

11,921
8,212

Please refer to Note 6 for details of the changes in goodwill and intangible assets arising from the acquisitions.  
Adjustments to the acquisition date fair values are recorded in the period in which they occur, and have changed amounts 
previously disclosed.  As a result of revised fair values, goodwill recorded in the Midwest and Ohio Heritage acquisitions 
increased $652,000 and $95,000, respectively from amounts previously reported as of September 30, 2014.

110

Acquired loans are reported net of the unamortized fair value adjustment.  The following table details the fair value 

adjustment for acquired loans as of the acquisition date:

(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
Nonimpaired Loans

Midwest

Ohio Heritage

North Akron

Contractual cash flows

Nonaccretable difference

Expected cash flows

Accretable yield

Fair value

Purchase Credit Impaired Loans

Contractual cash flows

Nonaccretable difference

Expected cash flows

Accretable yield

Fair value

$

$

$

$

81,931 $

241,575 $

15,786

66,145

12,969

23,227

218,348

49,730

53,176 $

168,618 $

154,933

19,162

135,771

30,471

105,300

10,782 $

13,550 $

11,477

4,491

6,291

751

4,884

8,666

1,484

5,540 $

7,182 $

4,439

7,038

813

6,225

Peoples recorded non-interest expenses related to acquisitions of $4.8 million and net losses on asset disposals of $0.3 

million in the Consolidated Statement of Income during 2014.

On August 4, 2014, Peoples entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger (the "NB&T Agreement") with NB&T.  The 

NB&T Agreement calls for NB&T to merge into Peoples and fNB&T's wholly-owned subsidiary, The National Bank and 
Trust Company, which operates 22 full-service branches in southwest Ohio, to merge into Peoples Bank.  This transaction is 
expected to close during the first quarter of 2015.

111

Note 18.   Parent Company Only Financial Information

Condensed Balance Sheets
(Dollars in thousands)
Assets:

Cash and due from other banks

Interest-bearing deposits in subsidiary bank

Receivable from subsidiary bank

Available-for-sale investment securities, at fair value (amortized cost of $1,255 at December
31, 2014 and $1,213 at December 31, 2013)

Investments in subsidiaries:

Bank

Non-bank

Other assets

Total assets

Liabilities:

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

Dividends payable

Long-term borrowings

Total liabilities

Common stockholders' equity

Total stockholders' equity

Total liabilities and stockholders' equity

Condensed Statements of Income
(Dollars in thousands)

Income:

Dividends from subsidiary bank

Dividends from non-bank subsidiary

Net gain on securities transactions

Net loss on other transactions

Interest and other income

Total income

Expenses:

Interest expense on junior subordinated debentures held by subsidiary trust

Intercompany management fees

Other expense

Total expenses

December 31,

2014

2013

$

50 $

41,666

1,015

5,214

281,360

30,693

878
360,876 $

6,365 $

24

14,369

20,758

340,118

340,118
360,876 $

$

$

$

50

5,541

828

4,548

205,167

30,527

854
247,515

6,815

—

19,147

25,962

221,553

221,553
247,515

Year Ended December 31,

2014

2013

2012

$

21,000 $

15,000 $

12,750

500

—

—

205

21,705

—

1,546

4,578

6,124

—

—

—

132

15,132

—

1,257

3,411

4,668

—

273
(1,033)
205

12,195

1,948

1,049

2,216

5,213

6,982
(2,127)
11,276
20,385

Income before federal income taxes and equity in (excess dividends from)
undistributed earnings of subsidiaries

Applicable income tax benefit

 (Excess dividends from) equity in undistributed earnings of subsidiaries

Net income

15,581
(2,102)
(999)
16,684 $

10,464
(1,510)
5,600
17,574 $

$

112

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Statements of Cash Flows
(Dollars in thousands)

Operating activities

Net income

Adjustment to reconcile net income to cash provided by operations:

Excess dividends from (equity in) undistributed earnings of subsidiaries

  Gain on investment securities

  Loss on debt extinguishment

Other, net

Net cash provided by operating activities

Investing activities

Net proceeds from sales and maturities of investment securities

Investment in subsidiaries

Change in receivable from subsidiary

Business acquisitions, net of cash received
Net cash used in investing activities

Financing activities

Proceeds from long-term borrowings

Payments on long-term borrowings

Redemption of junior subordinated debentures

Purchase of treasury stock

Proceeds from issuance of common stock

Cash dividends paid

Excess tax benefit for share-based payments

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of year

    Cash and cash equivalents at the end of year

Supplemental cash flow information:

Interest paid

Year Ended December 31,

2014

2013

2012

$

16,684 $

17,574 $

20,385

999

—

—

1,809

19,492

—
(28,574)
17,009
(42)
(11,607)

—
(4,800)
—
(520)
40,242
(6,767)
85

28,240

36,125

(5,600)
—

—

1,803

13,777

—

—
(619)
—
(619)

—
(4,800)
—
(228)
8
(5,419)
79
(10,360)
2,798

5,591
41,716 $

2,793
5,591 $

(11,276)
(273)
1,033
(663)
9,206

273
(9,815)
3,814

—
(5,728)

24,000

—
(23,668)
(1,357)
6
(4,457)
709
(4,767)
(1,289)
4,082
2,793

672 $

915 $

2,246

$

$

113

 
 
 
 
 
 
Note 19.   Summarized Quarterly Information (Unaudited)

(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

Total interest income

Total interest expense

Net interest income

Provision for (recovery of) loan losses

Net gain (loss) on asset disposals and other transactions

Net (loss) gain on investment securities

Other income

Intangible asset amortization

Acquisition-related expenses

Other expenses

Income tax expense

Net income

Earnings per common share - Basic

Earnings per common share - Diluted

2014(a)

First
Quarter

Second
Quarter(b)

Third
Quarter(b)

Fourth
Quarter

$

18,152

$

18,614

$

20,566

$

2,672

15,480

8

11
(30)
10,295

263

150

18,404

2,148

4,783

0.45

0.44

$

$

$

2,571

16,043

583
(187)
66

9,719

282

1,271

18,451

1,577

3,477

0.32

0.32

$

$

$

2,707

17,859
(380)
(109)
124

9,861

367

1,462

20,378

1,729

4,179

0.33

0.32

$

$

$

$

$

$

22,868

2,744

20,124

128
(146)
238

10,178

516

1,869

21,596

2,040

4,245

0.29

0.28

Weighted-average common shares outstanding - Basic

10,636,089

10,755,509

12,632,341

14,660,314

Weighted-average common shares outstanding - Diluted

10,740,884

10,880,090

12,765,880

14,809,289

(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

Total interest income

Total interest expense

Net interest income

Recovery of loan losses

Net loss on asset disposals and other transactions

Net gain (loss) on investment securities

Other income

Intangible asset amortization

Acquisition-related expenses

Other expenses

Income tax expense

Net income

Earnings per common share - Basic

Earnings per common share - Diluted

2013(a)

First
Quarter

Second
Quarter

Third
Quarter

Fourth
Quarter

$

16,066

$

16,111

$

16,509

$

3,091

12,975
(1,065)
(5)
418

9,072

189

65

2,956

13,155
(1,462)
(6)
26

9,216

164

37

2,833

13,676
(919)
(19)
(1)
9,586

180

182

15,931

16,221

16,901

2,318

5,022

0.47

0.47

$

$

$

2,510

4,921

0.46

0.46

$

$

$

4,381

2,517

0.24

0.23

$

$

$

$

$

$

18,385

2,806

15,579
(964)
(125)
46

9,346

274

1,128

16,993

2,301

5,114

0.48

0.47

Weighted-average common shares outstanding - Basic

10,556,261

10,576,643

10,589,126

10,602,266

Weighted-average common shares outstanding - Diluted

10,571,383

10,597,033

10,692,555

10,718,465

Includes impact of acquisitions as of the acquisition dates.

(a) 
(b)  Amounts adjusted for immaterial changes based on fair market value adjustments for acquired loan portfolios.

114

 
 
PART III

ITEM 10.  DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

The information concerning (a) directors of Peoples Bancorp Inc. (“Peoples”), (b) the procedures by which shareholders 
of Peoples may recommend nominees to Peoples' Board of Directors, (c) the Audit Committee of Peoples' Board of Directors 
and (d) the Board of Directors' determination that Peoples has an “audit committee financial expert” serving on its Audit 
Committee required by Items 401, 407(c)(3), 407(d)(4) and 407(d)(5) of SEC Regulation S-K will be included in the sections 
captioned “PROPOSAL NUMBER 1: ELECTION OF DIRECTORS”, “THE BOARD AND COMMITTEES OF THE 
BOARD” and “NOMINATING PROCEDURES” of the definitive Proxy Statement of Peoples Bancorp Inc. relating to the 
Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held April 23, 2015 (“Peoples' Definitive Proxy Statement”), which sections are 
incorporated herein by reference.  The procedures by which shareholders of Peoples may recommend nominees to Peoples' 
Board of Directors have not changed materially from those described in Peoples' definitive Proxy Statement for the 2014 
Annual Meeting of Shareholders held on April 24, 2014.

The information regarding Peoples' executive officers required by Item 401 of SEC Regulation S-K will be included in 

the section captioned “EXECUTIVE OFFICERS” of Peoples' Definitive Proxy Statement, which section is incorporated 
herein by reference.

The information required by Item 405 of SEC Regulation S-K will be included under the caption “SECTION 16(a) 
BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REPORTING COMPLIANCE” of Peoples' Definitive Proxy Statement, which section is 
incorporated herein by reference.

The Board of Directors of Peoples has adopted charters for each of the Audit Committee, the Compensation Committee, 

the Executive Committee, the Risk Committee and the Governance and Nominating Committee.

In accordance with the requirements of Rule 5610 of the NASDAQ Stock Market Corporate Governance Requirements, 
the Board of Directors of Peoples has adopted a Code of Ethics covering the directors, officers and employees of Peoples and 
its subsidiaries, including, without limitation, the principal executive officer, the principal financial officer and the principal 
accounting officer of Peoples.  Peoples intends to disclose the following events, if they occur, in a Current Report on Form 8-
K and on the “Corporate Governance” page of Peoples' Internet website at www.peoplesbancorp.com within four business 
days following their occurrence: 

(A)  the date and nature of any amendment to a provision of Peoples' Code of Ethics that 

(i)  applies to the principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or 

controller of Peoples, or persons performing similar functions, 

(ii)  relates to any element of the code of ethics definition set forth in Item 406(b) of SEC 

and 

(iii) is not a technical, administrative or other non-substantive amendment; and 

(B)  a description (including the nature of the waiver, the name of the person to whom the waiver was granted and the 

date of the waiver) of any waiver, including an implicit waiver, from a provision of the Code of Ethics granted to the 
principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller of Peoples, or 
persons performing similar functions, that relates to one or more of the elements of the code of ethics definition set 
forth in Item 406(b) of SEC Regulation S-K.

In addition, Peoples will disclose any waivers from the provisions of the Code of Ethics granted to a director or 
executive officer of Peoples in a Current Report on Form 8-K within four business days following their occurrence.

Each of the Code of Ethics, the Audit Committee Charter, the Governance and Nominating Committee Charter, the Risk 

Committee Charter, the Executive Committee Charter and the Compensation Committee Charter is posted under the 
"Governance Documents" tab on the “Corporate Governance” page of Peoples' Internet website.  Interested persons may also 
obtain copies of the Code of Ethics without charge by writing to Peoples Bancorp Inc., Attention: Corporate Secretary, 
138 Putnam Street, P.O. Box 738, Marietta, Ohio 45750-0738.

115

ITEM 11.  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

The information required by this Item 11 will be included in the sections captioned “COMPENSATION COMMITTEE 
INTERLOCKS AND INSIDER PARTICIPATION”, “EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION: COMPENSATION DISCUSSION 
AND ANALYSIS”, “SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE FOR 2014”, “GRANTS OF PLAN-BASED AWARDS FOR 
2014”, “OUTSTANDING EQUITY AWARDS AT FISCAL YEAR-END 2014”, “OPTION EXERCISES AND STOCK 
VESTED FOR 2014”, “PENSION BENEFITS FOR 2014”, “NON-QUALIFIED DEFERRED COMPENSATION FOR 
2014”, “OTHER POTENTIAL POST EMPLOYMENT PAYMENTS”, “DIRECTOR COMPENSATION” and 
“COMPENSATION COMMITTEE REPORT” of Peoples' Definitive Proxy Statement, which sections are incorporated 
herein by reference. 

ITEM 12.  SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND 

RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

The information required by this Item 12 regarding the security ownership of certain beneficial owners and management 

will be included in the section captioned “SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND 
MANAGEMENT” of Peoples' Definitive Proxy Statement, which section is incorporated herein by reference. 

Equity Compensation Plan Information

The table below provides information as of December 31, 2014, with respect to compensation plans under which 

common shares of Peoples are authorized for issuance to directors, officers or employees in exchange for consideration in the 
form of goods or services.  These compensation plans include: 

the Peoples Bancorp Inc. 1998 Stock Option Plan (the “1998 Plan”); 
(i) 
(ii)  the Peoples Bancorp Inc. 2002 Stock Option Plan (the “2002 Plan”); 
(iii) the Peoples Bancorp Inc. Second Amended and Restated 2006 Equity Plan (the “2006 Plan”);
(iv)  the Peoples Bancorp Inc. Third Amended and Restated Deferred Compensation Plan for Directors of Peoples 

Bancorp Inc. and Subsidiaries (the “Deferred Compensation Plan”); and
(v)  the Peoples Bancorp Inc. Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the "ESPP").

All of these compensation plans were approved by the shareholders of Peoples.

(a)
Number of 
common shares 
to be issued 
upon exercise 
of outstanding 
options, 
warrants and 
rights

(b)
Weighted-
average 
exercise price 
of outstanding 
options, 
warrants and 
rights

(c)
Number of common 
shares remaining 
available for future 
issuance under equity 
compensation plans 
(excluding common 
shares reflected in 
column (a))

327,191 (1) $

27.33 (2)

695,860 (3)

—
327,191

$

—
27.33

—
695,860

Plan Category

Equity compensation plans
approved by shareholders
Equity compensation plans not
approved by shareholders
Total

(1)  Includes an aggregate of 74,192 common shares issuable upon exercise of options granted under the 1998 Plan and 

the 2002 Plan and options and stock appreciation rights granted under the 2006 Plan and 190,483 restricted common 
shares subject to time-based or performance-based vesting restrictions, and 62,516 common shares allocated to 
participants' bookkeeping accounts under the Deferred Compensation Plan.

(2)  Represents weighted-average exercise price of outstanding options granted under the 1998 Plan and the 2002 Plan 
and options and stock appreciation rights granted under the 2006 Plan.  The weighted-average exercise price does 
not take into account the common shares allocated to participants' time-based or performance-based restricted stock 
awards or bookkeeping accounts under the Deferred Compensation Plan.

(3)  Includes 395,860 common shares remaining available for future grants under the 2006 Plan at December 31, 2014, 
as well as 300,000 common shares remaining available for issuance and delivery under the ESPP.  As of December 
31, 2014, no offering periods had commenced under the ESPP since its approval by Peoples' shareholders on April 

116

24, 2014.  No common shares were available for future grants under the 1998 Plan and the 2002 Plan at 
December 31, 2014.  No amount is included for potential future allocations to participants' bookkeeping accounts 
under the Deferred Compensation Plan since the terms of the Deferred Compensation Plan do not provide for a 
specified limit on the number of common shares which may be allocated to participants' bookkeeping accounts.    

Additional information regarding Peoples' stock-based compensation plans can be found in Note 16 of the Notes to the 

Consolidated Financial Statements.  

Since 1991, Peoples has maintained the Deferred Compensation Plan, which provides a non-employee director of 

Peoples the ability to defer all or part of the compensation (including compensation in the form of common shares), and 
related federal income tax, received for services provided as a director of Peoples or one of its subsidiaries.  Since 1998, 
directors participating in the Deferred Compensation Plan have been permitted to allocate their deferrals, with respect to cash 
compensation, between a cash account and a stock account.  Deferrals with respect to compensation in the form of common 
shares are automatically allocated to the stock account.  The cash account earns interest equal to Peoples Bank's three-year 
certificate of deposit interest rate.  The stock account receives allocations to a bookkeeping account of Peoples' common 
shares on the first business day of each calendar quarter based upon the cash portion of amounts deferred during the previous 
calendar quarter and the fair market value of Peoples' common shares and is credited with subsequent cash dividends on the 
common shares previously allocated to the account (which will be similarly credited to the bookkeeping account as Peoples' 
common shares).  The only right a participant in the Deferred Compensation Plan for Directors has with respect to his or her 
cash account and/or stock account is to receive distributions upon termination of service as a director.  Distribution of the 
deferred amounts is made in a lump sum or annual installments.  The stock account is distributed only in common shares of 
Peoples and the cash account is distributed only in cash.

In addition, Peoples maintains the Peoples Bancorp Inc. Retirement Savings Plan ("Retirement Savings Plan"), which is 
intended to meet the qualification requirements of Section 401(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.  As of 
January 1, 2015, Peoples grandfathered previous contributions allocated to Peoples' common shares in the Retirement 
Savings Plan, however, no longer allowed future contributions to be allocated to Peoples' common shares.

ITEM 13.  CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE

The information required by this Item 13 will be included in the sections captioned “TRANSACTIONS WITH 

RELATED PERSONS”, “PROPOSAL NUMBER 1: ELECTION OF DIRECTORS”, “THE BOARD AND COMMITTEES 
OF THE BOARD” and “COMPENSATION COMMITTEE INTERLOCKS AND INSIDER PARTICIPATION” of Peoples' 
Definitive Proxy Statement, which sections are incorporated by reference.

ITEM 14.  PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

The information required by this Item 14 will be included in the section captioned “INDEPENDENT REGISTERED 
PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM” of Peoples' Definitive Proxy Statement, which section is incorporated herein by reference.

117

PART IV

ITEM 15.  EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

(a)(1)  Financial Statements:

The following auditor's reports and consolidated financial statements of Peoples Bancorp Inc. and subsidiaries are 
included in Item 8:

Report of Management's Assessment of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (Ernst & Young LLP) on Effectiveness of Internal

Control Over Financial Reporting

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (Ernst & Young LLP) on Consolidated Financial

Statements

Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2014 and 2013

Consolidated Statements of Income for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2014

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for each of the three years in the period ended December 31,

2014

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2014

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2014

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

Peoples Bancorp Inc. (Parent Company Only Financial Information is included in Note 18 of the Notes to the

Consolidated Financial Statements)

Page

63

64

65

66

67

68

69

70

71

112

(a)(2)  Financial Statement Schedules

All schedules for which provision is made in the applicable accounting regulations of the Securities and Exchange 
Commission are not required under the related instructions or are inapplicable and, therefore, have been omitted.

(a)(3)  Exhibits

Exhibits filed or furnished with this Annual Report on Form 10-K are included herewith or incorporated herein by 
reference.  For a list of such exhibits, see “Exhibit Index” beginning at page 121.  The Exhibit Index specifically 
identifies each management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement required to be filed as an exhibit to this 
Form 10-K.

(b)   Exhibits

Exhibits filed or furnished with this Annual Report on Form 10-K are included herewith or incorporated herein by 
reference.  For a list of such exhibits, see “Exhibit Index” beginning at page 121.

(c)   Financial Statement Schedules

None.

118

 
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly 

caused this Report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

SIGNATURES

Date: February 26, 2015

PEOPLES BANCORP INC.

By: /s/ CHARLES W. SULERZYSKI
Charles W. Sulerzyski
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.

119

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Signatures

Title

/s/ CHARLES W. SULERZYSKI
Charles W. Sulerzyski

/s/ EDWARD G. SLOANE

Edward G. Sloane

/s/ TARA M. ABRAHAM*
Tara M. Abraham

/s/ CARL L. BAKER, JR.*
Carl L. Baker, Jr.

/s/ GEORGE W. BROUGHTON*
George W. Broughton

  President, Chief Executive Officer and Director

  Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer
  and Treasurer (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)

  Director

  Director

  Director

/s/ DAVID F. DIERKER*

  Director

David F. Dierker

/s/ RICHARD FERGUSON*

  Chairman of the Board and Director

Richard Ferguson

/s/ JAMES S. HUGGINS*
James S. Huggins

/s/ BRENDA F. JONES, M.D.*
Brenda F. Jones, M.D.

/s/ DAVID L. MEAD*
David L. Mead

/s/ SUSAN D. RECTOR*
Susan D. Rector

/s/ THOMAS J. WOLF*
Thomas J. Wolf

  Director

Director

Director

  Director

  Director

Date

  2/26/2015

  2/26/2015

  2/26/2015

  2/26/2015

  2/26/2015

  2/26/2015

  2/26/2015

  2/26/2015

2/26/2015

2/26/2015

  2/26/2015

  2/26/2015

* The above-named directors of the Registrant sign this Annual Report on Form 10-K by Charles W. Sulerzyski, their
attorney-in-fact, pursuant to Powers of Attorney signed by the above-named directors, which Powers of Attorney are
filed with this Annual Report on Form 10-K as exhibits, in the capacities indicated and on the 26th day of February,
2015.

By:

/s/ CHARLES W. SULERZYSKI
Charles W. Sulerzyski

President and Chief Executive Officer

Attorney-in-Fact

120

 
 
   
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
EXHIBIT INDEX

PEOPLES BANCORP INC. ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K
FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014

Exhibit
Number
2.1

Description
Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of January 21, 2014, between 
Peoples Bancorp Inc. and Midwest Bancshares, Inc.+

2.2

2.3

2.4

Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of April 4, 2014, between 
Peoples Bancorp Inc. and Ohio Heritage Bancorp, Inc.+

Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of April 21, 2014, as 
amended, among Peoples Bancorp Inc., Peoples Bank, National 
Association and North Akron Savings Bank.+

Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of August 4, 2014, as 
amended, between Peoples Bancorp Inc. and NB&T Financial Group, 
Inc.+

Exhibit Location

Included as Annex A to the proxy statement/
prospectus which forms a part of the Registration
Statement of Peoples Bancorp Inc. ("Peoples") on
Form S-4 (Registration No. 333-194626)

Included as Annex A to the proxy statement/
prospectus which forms a part of Peoples'
Registration Statement on Form S-4 (Registration
No. 333-196872)

Included as Annex A to the proxy statement/
prospectus which forms a part of Peoples'
Registration Statement on Form S-4 (Registration
No. 333-197736)

Included as Annex A to the proxy statement/
prospectus which forms a part of Peoples'
Registration Statement on Form S-4 (Registration
No. 333-199152)

3.1(a)

  Amended Articles of Incorporation of Peoples Bancorp Inc. (as filed

with the Ohio Secretary of State on May 3, 1993)

  Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3(a)
to Peoples' Registration Statement on Form 8-B
Peoples filed July 20, 1993 (File No. 0-16772)

3.1(b)

  Certificate of Amendment to the Amended Articles of Incorporation of

Peoples Bancorp Inc. (as filed with the Ohio Secretary of State on
April 22, 1994)

  Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3(a)
(2) to Peoples’ Annual Report on Form 10-K for
the fiscal year ended December 31, 1997 (File
No. 0-16772) (“Peoples’ 1997 Form 10-K”)

3.1(c)

  Certificate of Amendment to the Amended Articles of Incorporation of

  Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3(a)

Peoples Bancorp Inc. (as filed with the Ohio Secretary of State on
April 9, 1996)

(3) to Peoples’ 1997 Form 10-K

3.1(d)

  Certificate of Amendment to the Amended Articles of Incorporation of

Peoples Bancorp Inc. (as filed with the Ohio Secretary of State on
April 23, 2003)

  Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3(a)
to Peoples’ Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for
the quarterly period ended March 31, 2003 (File
No. 0-16772) (“Peoples’ March 31, 2003 Form
10-Q”)

3.1(e)

  Certificate of Amendment by Shareholders to the Amended Articles of

Incorporation of Peoples Bancorp Inc. (as filed with the Ohio
Secretary of State on January 22, 2009)

  Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to
Peoples’ Current Report on Form 8-K dated and
filed on January 23, 2009 (File No. 0-16772)

3.1(f)

  Certificate of Amendment by Directors to Articles filed with the

Secretary of State of the State of Ohio on January 28, 2009,
evidencing adoption of amendments by the Board of Directors of
Peoples Bancorp Inc. to Article FOURTH of Amended Articles of
Incorporation to establish express terms of Fixed Rate Cumulative
Perpetual Preferred Shares, Series A, each without par value, of
Peoples Bancorp Inc.

3.1(g)

  Amended Articles of Incorporation of Peoples Bancorp Inc. (reflecting
all amendments) [For SEC reporting compliance purposes only – not
filed with Ohio Secretary of State]

3.2(a)

  Code of Regulations of Peoples Bancorp Inc.

  Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to
Peoples’ Current Report on Form 8-K dated and
filed on February 2, 2009 (File No. 0-16772)

  Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1(g)
to Peoples’ Annual Report on Form 10-K for the
fiscal year ended December 31, 2008 (File No.
0-16772) (“Peoples’ 2008 Form 10-K”)

  Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3(b)
to Peoples’ Registration Statement on Form 8-B
filed July 20, 1993 (File No. 0-16772)

+Schedules and exhibits have been omitted pursuant to Item 601(b)(2) of SEC Regulation S-K.  A copy of any omitted schedules or 
exhibits will be furnished supplementally to the SEC upon request.

121

   
   
Exhibit
Number

Description

Exhibit Location

3.2(b)

  Certified Resolutions Regarding Adoption of Amendments to

  Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3(c) to

Sections 1.03, 1.04, 1.05, 1.06, 1.08, 1.10, 2.03(C), 2.07, 2.08, 2.10
and 6.02 of the Code of Regulations of Peoples Bancorp Inc. by
shareholders on April 10, 2003

Peoples’ March 31, 2003 Form 10-Q

3.2(c)

  Certificate regarding adoption of amendments to Sections 3.01, 3.03,
3.04, 3.05, 3.06, 3.07, 3.08 and 3.11 of the Code of Regulations of
Peoples Bancorp Inc. by shareholders on April 8, 2004

  Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3(a) to
Peoples’ Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the
quarterly period ended March 31, 2004 (File No.
0-16772)

3.2(d)

3.2(e)

  Certificate regarding adoption of amendments to Sections 2.06, 2.07,
3.01 and 3.04 of Peoples Bancorp Inc.’s Code of Regulations by the
shareholders on April 13, 2006

  Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to
Peoples’ Current Report on Form 8-K dated and
filed on April 14, 2006 (File No. 0-16772)

Certificate regarding adoption of an amendment to Section 2.01 of
Peoples Bancorp Inc.'s Code of Regulations by shareholders on April
22, 2010

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.2(e)
to Peoples' Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q/A
(Amendment No. 1) for the quarterly period ended
June 30, 2010 (File No. 0-16772).  ("Peoples' June
30, 2010 Form 10-Q/A")

3.2(f)

  Code of Regulations of Peoples Bancorp Inc. (reflecting all

amendments)  [For SEC reporting compliance purposes only]

  Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.2(f)

to Peoples' June 30, 2010 Form 10-Q/A

4.1

4.2

4.3

4.4

Agreement to furnish instruments and agreements defining rights of
holders of long-term debt

Filed herewith

Loan Agreement, dated as of December 18, 2012, between Peoples
Bancorp Inc., as Borrower, and U.S. Bank National Association, as
Lender

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to
Peoples' Current Report on Form 8-K, dated and
filed December 21, 2012 (File No. 0-16772)
("Peoples' December 21, 2012 Form 8-K")

Revolving Credit Note in the principal sum of $5,000,000 issued by
Peoples Bancorp Inc. on December 18, 2012 to U.S. Bank National
Association

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to
Peoples' December 21, 2012 Form 8-K

Term Note in the principal sum of $24,000,000 issued by Peoples
Bancorp Inc. on December 18, 2012 to U.S. Bank National
Association

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to
Peoples' December 21, 2012 Form 8-K

4.5

  Negative Pledge Agreement, dated December 18, 2012 between

Peoples Bancorp Inc. and U.S. Bank National Association

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.4 to
Peoples' December 21, 2012 Form 8-K

4.6

4.7

4.8

4.9

First Amendment to Revolving Credit Note executed by Peoples
Bancorp Inc., as Borrower, and accepted by U.S. Bank National
Association, as Lender, effective as of December 17, 2013

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to
Peoples' Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the
quarterly period ended September 30, 2014 (File
No. 0-16772) ("Peoples' September 30, 2014 Form
10-Q")

Second Amendment to Revolving Credit Note executed by Peoples
Bancorp Inc., as Borrower, and accepted by U.S. Bank National
Association, as Lender, effective as of August 4, 2014

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to
Peoples' September 30, 2014 Form 10-Q

Third Amendment to Revolving Credit Note executed by Peoples
Bancorp Inc., as Borrower, and accepted by U.S. Bank National
Association, as Lender, effective December 18, 2014

Filed herewith

First Amendment to Loan Agreement executed by Peoples Bancorp
Inc., as Borrower, and accepted by U.S. Bank National Association,
as Lender, effective as of August 4, 2014

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to
Peoples' September 30, 2014 Form 10-Q

10.1(a)

Peoples Bancorp Inc. Third Amended and Restated Deferred
Compensation Plan for Directors of Peoples Bancorp Inc. and
Subsidiaries (Amended and Restated Effective June 26, 2014)*

  Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to
Peoples' Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the
quarterly period ended June 30, 2014 (File No.
0-16772)

*Management Compensation Plan or Agreement

122

   
   
Exhibit
Number

10.1(b)

10.2

10.3

10.4

10.5

Description

Exhibit Location

Rabbi Trust Agreement, made January 6, 1998, between Peoples
Bancorp Inc. and The Peoples Banking and Trust Company
(predecessor to Peoples Bank, National Association) as Trustee*

  Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1(c)
to Peoples’ Annual Report on Form 10-K for the
fiscal year ended December 31, 2007 (File No.
0-16772)

Peoples Bancorp Inc. Amended and Restated Incentive Award Plan
(Amended and Restated Effective December 11, 2008) [Effective for
the fiscal year ended December 31, 2009]*

  Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of

Peoples’ 2008  Form 10-K

Summary of Incentive Plan for Executive Officers and other
employees of Peoples Bancorp Inc. [Effective for the fiscal year
ended December 31, 2010]*

Summary of Peoples Bancorp Inc. Annual Incentive Program for
Executive Officers and other employees of Peoples Bancorp Inc.
[Effective beginning with the fiscal year beginning January 1, 2012]*

  Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2
(b) to Peoples' Annual Report of Form 10-K for
the fiscal year ended December 31, 2009 (File No.
0-16772) ("Peoples' 2009 Form 10-K")

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2(c)
to  Peoples' Annual Report of Form 10-K for the
fiscal year ended December 31, 2011 (File No.
0-16772) ("Peoples’ 2011 Form 10-K")

Summary of Peoples Bancorp Inc. Long Term Incentive Program for
Executive Officers and other employees of Peoples Bancorp Inc.
[Effective beginning with the fiscal year beginning January 1, 2012]*

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2
(d) to  Peoples’ 2011 Form 10-K

10.6

Peoples Bancorp Inc. 1995 Stock Option Plan.*

10.7

Peoples Bancorp Inc. 1998 Stock Option Plan.*

  Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4 to

Peoples’ Registration Statement on Form S-8 filed
May 24, 1995 (Registration Statement No.
33-59569)

  Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10 to

Peoples’ Registration Statement on Form S-8 filed
September 4, 1998 (Registration Statement No.
333-62935)

10.8

10.9

10.10

Form of Stock Option Agreement used in connection with grant of
non-qualified stock options to non-employee directors of Peoples
Bancorp Inc. under Peoples Bancorp Inc. 1998 Stock Option Plan.*

  Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10(o)

to Peoples’ 1998 Form 10-K

Form of Stock Option Agreement used in connection with grant of
non-qualified stock options to consultants/advisors of Peoples
Bancorp Inc. under Peoples Bancorp Inc. 1998 Stock Option Plan.*

  Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10(p)

to Peoples’ 1998 Form 10-K

Form of Stock Option Agreement used in connection with grant of
incentive stock options under Peoples Bancorp Inc. 1998 Stock
Option Plan.*

  Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10(o)

to Peoples’ 1999 Form 10-K

10.11

Peoples Bancorp Inc. 2002 Stock Option Plan.*

  Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10 to

Peoples’ Registration Statement on Form S-8 filed
April 15, 2002 (Registration Statement No.
333-86246)

  Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10(r)
to Peoples’ Annual Report on Form 10-K for the
fiscal year ended December 31, 2002 (File No.
0-16772) (“Peoples’ 2002 Form 10-K”)

10.12

10.13

10.14

Form of Stock Option Agreement used in connection with grant of
non-qualified stock options to non-employee directors of Peoples
Bancorp Inc. under Peoples Bancorp Inc. 2002 Stock Option Plan.*

Form of Stock Option Agreement used in connection with grant of
non-qualified stock options to directors of Peoples Bancorp Inc.'s
subsidiaries under Peoples Bancorp Inc. 2002 Stock Option Plan.*

  Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10(s)

to Peoples’ 2002 Form 10-K

Form of Stock Option Agreement used in connection with grant of
non-qualified stock options to employees of Peoples Bancorp Inc.
and its subsidiaries under Peoples Bancorp Inc. 2002 Stock Option
Plan.*

  Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10(t)

to Peoples’ 2002 Form 10-K

*Management Compensation Plan or Agreement

123

   
   
Exhibit
Number

10.15

10.16

10.17

Description

Exhibit Location

Form of Stock Option Agreement used in connection with grant of
incentive stock options under Peoples Bancorp Inc. 2002 Stock
Option Plan.*

  Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10(u)

to Peoples’ 2002 Form 10-K

Summary of Perquisites for Executive Officers of Peoples Bancorp
Inc.*

  Filed herewith

Summary of Base Salaries for Executive Officers of Peoples Bancorp
Inc.*

  Filed herewith

10.18

Summary of Compensation for Directors of Peoples Bancorp Inc.*

Filed herewith

10.19

10.2

10.21

10.22

10.23

10.24

10.25

10.26

10.27

10.28

10.29

10.30

Peoples Bancorp Inc. Second Amended and Restated 2006 Equity
Plan (approved by shareholders on April 25, 2013; sometimes
referred to as "Peoples Bancorp Inc. 2006 Equity Plan")*

  Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to
Peoples' Current Report on Form 8-K dated and
filed on April 26, 2013 (File No. 0-16772)

Form of Peoples Bancorp Inc. 2006 Equity Plan Nonqualified Stock
Option Agreement used and to be used to evidence grant of
nonqualified stock option to non-employee directors of Peoples
Bancorp Inc.*

  Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10(c)

of Peoples’ Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the
quarterly period ended June 30, 2006 (File No.
0-16772)

Form of Peoples Bancorp Inc. 2006 Equity Plan Restricted Stock
Agreement for employees used and to be used to evidence awards of
restricted stock granted to employees of Peoples Bancorp Inc.*

  Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.29
of Peoples’ Annual Report on Form 10-K for the
fiscal year ended December 31, 2006 (File No.
0-16722) (“Peoples’ 2006 Form 10-K”)

Form of Peoples Bancorp Inc. 2006 Equity Plan SAR Agreement for
employees used and to be used to evidence awards of stock
appreciation rights granted to employees of Peoples Bancorp Inc.*

  Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.31

of Peoples’ 2006 Form 10-K

Peoples Bancorp Inc. Second Amended and Restated 2006 Equity
Plan Time-Based Restricted Stock Award Agreement (for Executives)
to be used for grants on and after June 27, 2013

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to
Peoples' Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the
quarterly period ended June 30, 2013 (File No.
0-16772) ("Peoples' June 30, 2013 Form 10-Q")

Peoples Bancorp Inc. Second Amended and Restated 2006 Equity
Plan Time-Based Restricted Stock Award Agreement (for Non-
Employee Directors) to be used for grants on and after June 27, 2013

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to
Peoples' June 30, 2013 Form 10-Q

Form of Peoples Bancorp Inc. 2006 Equity Plan Performance-Based
Restricted Stock Agreement for employees used and to be used to
evidence awards of performance-based restricted stock granted to
employees of Peoples Bancorp Inc. *

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.8 to
Peoples' Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the
quarterly period ended March 31, 2011 (File No.
0-16772)

Form of Peoples Bancorp Inc. Amended and Restated 2006 Equity
Plan Performance-Based Restricted Stock Agreement for executives
used to evidence awards of performance-based restricted stock
granted to executives of Peoples Bancorp Inc. (from January 1, 2012
to July 24, 2013)*

Form of Peoples Bancorp Inc. Amended and Restated 2006 Equity
Plan Time-Based Restricted Stock Agreement for executives used to
evidence awards of time-based restricted stock granted to executives
of Peoples Bancorp Inc.  (from January 1, 2012 to June 26, 2013)*

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.41
to  Peoples’ 2011 Form 10-K

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.43
to  Peoples’ 2011 Form 10-K

Peoples Bancorp Inc. Second Amended and Restated 2006 Equity
Plan Performance-Based Restricted Stock Award Agreement (for
Executives) to be used for grants on and after July 25, 2013

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to
Peoples' June 30, 2013 Form 10-Q

Peoples Bancorp Inc. Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plan
(adopted effective July 25, 2013)

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to
Peoples' June 30, 2013 Form 10-Q

Amended and Restated Change in Control Agreement, between
Peoples Bancorp Inc. and Carol A. Schneeberger (amended and
restated effective December 11, 2008)*

  Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.21

to Peoples’ 2008 Form 10-K

*Management Compensation Plan or Agreement

124

   
   
Exhibit
Number

10.31

Description

Exhibit Location

Amended and Restated Change in Control Agreement, between
Peoples Bancorp Inc. and Edward G. Sloane (amended and restated
effective December 11, 2008)*

  Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.34

to Peoples’ 2008 Form 10-K

10.32

Change in Control Agreement between Peoples Bancorp Inc. and
Daniel K. McGill (adopted September 14, 2009)*

10.33

Change in Control Agreement between Peoples Bancorp Inc. and
Richard W. Stafford (adopted February 8, 2010)*

10.34

Change in Control Agreement between Peoples Bancorp Inc. and
Timothy H. Kirtley (adopted August 29, 2011).*

10.35

Change in Control Agreement between Peoples Bancorp Inc. and
Charles W. Sulerzyski (adopted April 4, 2011).*

10.36

Peoples Bancorp Inc. Employee Stock Purchase Plan*

10.37

Form of Securities Purchase Agreement, made as of August 4, 2014,
between Peoples Bancorp Inc. and each institutional investor
purchasing common share s of Peoples Bancorp Inc. in the private
placement that closed on August 7, 2014

  Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to
Peoples’ Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the
quarterly period ended September 30, 2009 (File
No. 0-16722)

  Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.31
to Peoples’ Annual Report on Form 10-K for the
fiscal year ended December 31, 2009 (File No.
0-16722) (“Peoples’ 2009 Form 10-K”)

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to
Peoples' Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the
quarterly period ended September 30, 2011 (File
No. 0-16772)

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to
Peoples' Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the
quarterly period ended June 30, 2011 (File No.
0-16772)

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to
Peoples' Current Report on Form 8-K dated and
filed on April 28, 2014 (File No. 0-16772)

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to
Peoples' Current Report on Form 8-K dated and
filed on August 4, 2014 (File No. 0-16772)

21

23

24

Subsidiaries of Peoples Bancorp Inc.

Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm - Ernst &
Young LLP

Filed herewith

Filed herewith

Powers of Attorney of Directors and Executive Officers of Peoples
Bancorp Inc.

Filed herewith

31.1

  Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certifications [President and Chief

  Filed herewith

Executive Officer]

31.2

  Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certifications [Executive Vice President,

  Filed herewith

Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer]

32

  Certifications Pursuant to Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of
the United States Code [President and Chief Executive Officer; and
Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer]

  Furnished herewith

101.INS

XBRL Instance Document

Submitted electronically herewith #

101.SCH XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document

Submitted electronically herewith #

101.CAL XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document

Submitted electronically herewith #

101.LAB XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document

Submitted electronically herewith #

101.PRE XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document

Submitted electronically herewith #

101.DEF XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document

Submitted electronically herewith #

*Management Compensation Plan or Agreement

125

   
   
Exhibit
Number

Description

Exhibit Location

# Attached as Exhibit 101 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014 of Peoples Bancorp Inc. are
the following documents formatted in XBRL (eXtensive Business Reporting Language): (i) Consolidated Balance Sheets at December
31, 2014 and December 31, 2013; (ii) Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012; (iii)
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012; (iv) Consolidated
Statements of Stockholders' Equity for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012; (v) Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 and (vi) Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

126

   
   
Maps and Locations

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY 
LEFT BLANK

OHIO

Athens 
County

Athens

Nelsonville

The Plains

Coshocton 
County

Coshocton

Cuyahoga 
County

Beachwood

Fairfield 
County

Baltimore

Lancaster

Franklin 
County

Worthington

Gallia 
County

Gallipolis

Guernsey 
County

Byesville

Cambridge

Jackson 
County

Jackson

Wellston

Knox 
County

Mount Vernon

Licking 
County

Heath

Newark

Meigs 
County

Pomeroy

Morgan 
County

McConnelsville

Muskingum 
County

Zanesville

Noble 
County

Caldwell

Ross 
County

Chillicothe

Summit 
County

Akron

Cuyahoga Falls

Munroe Falls

Norton

Tuscarawas 
County

New Philadelphia

Washington 
County

Belpre

Lowell

Marietta

Reno

WEST 
VIRGINIA

Cabell 
County

Huntington

Kanawha 
County

Charleston

Mason 
County

Worthington
Worthington

Columbus
Columbus

70

Point Pleasant

71

Cleveland
Cleveland

Beachwood
Beachwood

Munroe Falls
Munroe Falls
Cuyahoga Falls
CuyaHoga Falls

Akron
Akron

Norton
Norton

77

Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon

New Philadelphia
New Philadelphia

Newark
Newark
Heath
Heath

Baltimore
Baltimore
Lancaster
Lancaster

Coshocton
Coshocton

Cambridge
Cambridge

Zanesville
Zanesville

McConnelsville
McConnelsville

Lowell
Lowell

Belpre
Belpre

Athens
Athens

Byesville
Byesville

Caldwell
Caldwell

Marietta
Marietta
Reno
Reno

Vienna
Vienna
Parkersburg
Parkersburg

Tyler 
County

Sistersville

Wetzel 
County

New Martinsville

Wood 
County

Parkersburg

Vienna

KENTUCKY

Boyd 
County

Ashland

Summit

Greenup 
County

Greenup

Russell

Pike 
County

Pikeville

Chillicothe
Chillicothe

33

Nelsonville
Nelsonville
The Plains
The Plains

Jackson
Jackson

Wellston
Wellston

Pomeroy
Pomeroy

32

New Martinsville
New Martinsville

Sistersville
Sistersville

50

Morgantown
Morgantown

79

Gallipolis
Gallipolis

Point Pleasant
Point Pleasant

Greenup
Greenup

Russell
Russell

Ashland
Ashland

Summit
Summit

Huntington
Huntington

Charleston
Charleston

77

Pikeville
Pikeville

Coshocton Balloon Festival - Photo by Mark Spearman

15

 
Peoples Bank  
Director Emeritus

HAROLD D. LAUGHLIN 

Peoples Bancorp Inc. 
Directors Emeritus

DAVE M. ARCHER 

FRANK L. CHRISTY 

WILFORD D. DIMIT

BARTON S. HOLL 

FRED R. PRICE 

ROBERT W. PRICE

T. PAT SAUBER

PAUL T. THEISEN

JOSEPH H. WESEL

Meet Our Officers 
and Directors Emeritus

Peoples Bancorp Inc. Officers 

CHUCK SULERZYSKI

President and Chief Executive Officer

TIMOTHY H. KIRTLEY

Executive Vice President

Chief Credit Officer

DANIEL K. MCGILL

Executive Vice President

Chief Commercial Banking Officer

CAROL A. SCHNEEBERGER

Executive Vice President

Chief Administrative Officer

EDWARD G. SLOANE

Executive Vice President

Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer

RICHARD W. STAFFORD

Executive Vice President

Sales and Marketing

M. RYAN KIRKHAM

General Counsel and Corporate Secretary

KATHRYN M. BAILEY

Controller

AMY M. AUCH

Assistant Corporate Secretary

CATHY M. LAWRENCE

Assistant Corporate Secretary

B. Jones, T. Wolf, C. Baker, D.Mead, R. Ferguson, C. Sulerzyski, S. Rector, D. Dierker, G. Broughton, J. Huggins, T. Abraham 

Peoples Bancorp Inc. 
and Peoples Bank Directors

TARA M. ABRAHAM

DAVID F. DIERKER

DAVID L. MEAD

Chairman and Co-CEO, Accel, Inc. 

Retired Banking Executive

Associate Professor, Marietta College

SunTrust Banks, Inc.

CARL L. BAKER, JR.

SUSAN D. RECTOR

President and Chief Executive Officer

RICHARD FERGUSON

Attorney-At-Law, Ice Miller LLP

B & N Coal, Inc.

Chairman, Peoples Bancorp Inc.

Owner, Ferguson Consulting, LLC

CHUCK SULERZYSKI

GEORGE W. BROUGHTON

Owner and President

JAMES S. HUGGINS

Peoples Bancorp Inc. and Peoples Bank

President and Chief Executive Officer 

Broughton Commercial Properties, LLC

Attorney-At-Law, Theisen Brock, LPA

GWB Specialty Foods, LLC

GWB Oil & Gas, LLC

BRENDA F. JONES, M.D.

Owner, McDonald’s Restaurants

THOMAS J. WOLF

Ophthalmologist

Marietta Healthcare Physicians, Inc.

16

17

Market Makers

Stockholder Information

Stock Listing

NASDAQ Symbol: PEBO

Stock Transfer Agent, Registrar

Shareowner Services

NASDAQ Global Select Market, CUSIP 709789101

161 N.  Concord Exchange

Alternate Newspaper Listings: PEBOOH and PeBcOh

South St. Paul, MN 55075

Corporate Offices

Peoples’ Headquarters:

138 Putnam Street, PO Box 738

Marietta, OH 45750-0738

800.468.9716 • shareowneronline.com

General Shareholder Inquiries

Peoples Bancorp Inc.

Attn: Investor Relations

Investor Relations Phone Number: 740.374.6136 

138 Putnam Street, PO Box 738

peoplesbancorp.com

Marietta, OH 45750-0738

Market Makers in Peoples Bancorp Inc. Stock

Morgan Stanley & Co. Inc. 

Deutsche Bank Securities Inc. 

JP Morgan Securities

800.223.6559

212.250.2500 

212.272.2000

Goldman Sachs 

800.221.8320 

Instinet Corporation

Sandler O’Neill & Partners 

212.310.9500

800.635.6860 

Credit Suisse First Boston 

Barclays Capital Inc. 

Interactive Brokers LLC

212.325.2000

212.412.4000 

877.442.2757

UBS Securities LLC 

Wedbush Securities Inc. 

Citigroup Global Markets Inc. 

800.421.6172 

213.688.8000 

800.223.7743 

18

Our Promise

We will work side by side to overcome 

challenges and seize opportunities.   

We listen and work with you.  Together 

we will build and execute thoughtful plans 

and actions, blending our experience and 

expertise, to move you toward your goals.  

Our core difference is providing you peace 

of mind, confidence, and clarity in your 

financial life.

Our Core Values

Peoples’ Core Values represent how we 

do business and our never-ending pursuit 

of creating value for our clients.  Our 

strategies to serve clients and enhance 

shareholder value often change, but our 

Core Values remain constant.

Business With Integrity

Continuous Will to Win

Trust Among Clients, 
Communities, and Associates

Commitment to Communities

Clients are our Focus

Development of Associate Skills

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