Quarterlytics / Financial Services / Banks - Regional / Peoples Bancorp Inc. / FY2015 Annual Report

Peoples Bancorp Inc.
Annual Report 2015

PEBO · NASDAQ Financial Services
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Ticker PEBO
Exchange NASDAQ
Sector Financial Services
Industry Banks - Regional
Employees 1460
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FY2015 Annual Report · Peoples Bancorp Inc.
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2015
ANNUAL 
REPORT
Building For The Future

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800.374.6123
800.374.6123
800.374.6123

peoplesbancorp.com
peoplesbancorp.com
peoplesbancorp.com

Visit your local office
Visit your local office
Visit your local office

138 Putnam Street | PO Box 738 | Marietta, OH 45750
138 Putnam Street | PO Box 738 | Marietta, OH 45750
138 Putnam Street | PO Box 738 | Marietta, OH 45750

 
 
 
 
 
 
Financial Highlights

Peoples Bancorp Inc. is a diversified financial holding company 
headquartered in Marietta, Ohio, with $3.3 billion in total 
assets, 82 offices and 81 ATMs in Ohio, West Virginia, and 
Kentucky.  Over 850 dedicated associates deliver Peoples’ 
complete line of banking, investment, insurance and trust 
solutions through its subsidiaries – Peoples Bank and Peoples 

Insurance Agency, LLC.  Peoples has been in business since 
1902 and has established a heritage of financial stability, 
growth and community impact for 113 years. 

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

Dollars in Thousands, except Per Share Data 

 2015 

2014 

2013 

2015 

2014 

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) 

$  145,053 
$  115,081 
10,941 
$ 
11,017 
$ 

$  109,559 
85,009 
$ 
16,684 
$ 
7,842 
$ 

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 

$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 

0.62 
0.61 
0.60 
22.81 
14.68 
18.84 

$ 3,258,970 
$  868,830 
$ 2,072,440 
$ 2,535,944 
$  419,789 
$ 1,939,406 

0.35% 
2.69% 
3.53% 
75.50% 
14.55% 
8.69% 
0.62% 

$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 

$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 

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

1.65 
1.63 
0.57 
20.89 
13.57 
22.51 

$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 

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 
$ 1,612,278 

$  2,059,108 
$  680,526 
$  1,196,234 
$  1,580,758 
$  221,553 
$  1,539,555 

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

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

32.4% 
35.4% 
-34.4% 
40.5% 

-54.4% 
-54.8% 
0.0% 
-0.5% 
-5.7% 
-27.3% 

26.9% 
21.7% 
27.9% 
31.2% 
23.4% 
20.3% 

18.3% 
24.5% 
-5.1% 
27.3% 

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

24.7% 
4.9% 
35.5%  
22.3% 
53.5% 
4.7% 

(1) Net interest income and non-interest income (which excludes 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. 

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

15

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
Chuck Sulerzyski, 
President and CEO

A Message from the President and CEO

Dear Fellow Shareholders, 

2015 was both an exciting and challenging year for Peoples 
Bancorp Inc. (Peoples).  We reached historic growth milestones 
with the acquisition of NB&T Financial Group, Inc. (“NB&T”), 
which expanded our footprint and positioned us for future 
growth.  At the same time, we increased our operational 
capabilities and scale to deliver enhanced products and 
services with greater efficiency.  Our per-share earnings, 
however, fell from $1.35 to $0.61 largely driven by a $13.1 
million dollar charge off, and $11.3 million of one-time 
acquisition expenses related to the NB&T transaction.  This 
letter discusses the impact of recent acquisitions, addresses 
our asset quality metrics, shares our go-to-market strategies, 
and provides our outlook for 2016 and beyond.  

ACQUISITIONS AT PEOPLES BANK 
On March 6, 2015, we completed the acquisition of NB&T 
in Wilmington, Ohio.  This was the largest acquisition in 
our history, giving us 22 additional branches, $711 million 
in assets, and more than 21,000 new client relationships.  
It also provided us with access to the rapidly expanding 
Cincinnati-Dayton corridor, and product expertise in 
agriculture lending. 

NB&T was our sixth bank acquisition in the previous four 
years.  In all of those transactions, we achieved our cost-
save targets.  In the five acquisitions prior to the NB&T 
transaction, we also consistently hit our post-acquisition 
revenue targets.  The NB&T acquisition has been challenging 
for us in meeting projected revenue targets primarily as the 
result of lower than expected loan balances.

 “We treat clients like family and         
           never seek to sell a product
or service that is not in the
         best interest of the client.”               

Revenue Growth

32%

25%

Trust & Investment
Revenue Growth

Growth in Number 

of Checking Accounts 32%

28%

Loan Growth

1

The acquired loan portfolio balances for NB&T were initially 
less than we had expected due to some unanticipated, 
pre-closing runoff in the portfolio.  After we closed the 
transaction, the portfolio declined by another 6%, about half 
of which constituted planned exits resulting from portfolio 
management decisions that we made in reflection of our 
risk appetite.  During the course of the year, we have taken 
aggressive actions to get loan balances back to targeted 
levels.  We added commercial banking talent to complement 
the existing high-quality lending team on-boarded through 
the NB&T deal.  As a result of these actions, loan production 
levels and our opportunity pipeline have strengthened 
considerably.  We believe that we will be back on track for 
loan growth in southwest Ohio in 2016.  We still consider this 
market to be of high value to us and of primary importance 
to our future from a long-term growth perspective.

In recent years, we have also completed a number of 
acquisitions in our insurance and investments businesses.  
In July, we acquired Hedges Gallery of Insurance in 
Lebanon, Ohio which has further strengthened our market 
presence in southwest Ohio.  The opportunity to add fee-
based insurance and investment businesses enables us 
to provide broader solutions to our clients and prospects 
and serves to differentiate Peoples from many of our 
competitors.  These acquisitions will also help us increase 
the percentage of income derived from fees toward our 
strategic objective of 35% to 40% of total revenue.  For 
the year, fee income stood at 33% of total revenue. 

Acquisitions will continue to be an essential ingredient 
of our future success.  For the time being, we do not see 
ourselves closing a bank deal in 2016 or 2017.  We are in a 
rapidly consolidating industry, and increasing scale allows 
for greater efficiency, more capabilities and increased 
profitability.  Our efficiency ratio, excluding one-time 
costs and other non-core items, fell to 64.7% in the fourth 
quarter of 2015.  That is a dramatic improvement over the 
recent past and demonstrates our efficient integration 
of acquisitions and leveraging of our growing scale.  
When we do decide to get back to expanding our core 
banking franchise, we will continue to look for acquisition 
opportunities that increase earnings per share in the first 

full calendar year, earn back tangible book dilution in four 
years or less, beat our internal rate of return thresholds, 
and make our distribution network even more convenient 
for our clients. 

ASSET QUALITY AT PEOPLES
During 2015 we charged off $13.1 million dollars related to 
a single large coal operator.  Needless to say, the energy 
sector has been under intense regulatory and market 
pressure recently.  As a result, we have reduced our credit 
exposure to the energy industry to $40 million at year-end.  
This represents 1.7% of our total loan commitments.  In 
addition, we have strengthened our portfolio management 
activities to better identify, address and resolve problem loan 
situations.  At year-end, our nonperforming assets (defined 
as nonperforming loans plus other real estate owned) as a 
percentage of total assets stood at 0.62%.  This is in line 
with the median for the universe of banks with total assets 
between $1 billion and $10 billion which was 0.61% at year-
end.  We are determined to restore our nonperforming asset 
percentage to the top quartile of industry performance.

HOW WE COMPETE
Across our footprint, we organize into local market teams 
that deliver a full suite of insurance, investment and 
banking solutions to clients.  We distinguish ourselves 
by the speed and quality of our credit processes.  
Recent acquisitions have seen their turnaround time for 
small business and consumer loan decisions improve 
dramatically.  In many cases, we can provide a credit 
decision before the client leaves the branch.

Consumers and businesses increasingly are turning to 
electronic services to conduct their business.  We continue 
to broaden our electronic capabilities and strive to be the 
best in class in both electronic and in-person delivery.

In all cases, we seek to understand the client’s goals and 
aspirations, and then to provide products and services 
that help them reach those goals.  We treat clients like 
family and never seek to sell a product or service that 
is not in the best interests of the client.  This approach 
combined with our broad product set has our cross-sell 
rate nearing 6.2 products per customer.  

2

 
$145.1

$109.6

$92.6

2015 2014

2013

TOTAL REVENUE
($ Millions)

$3.3

$2.6

$2.1

2015 2014

2013

TOTAL ASSETS
($ Billions)

3.53% 3.45%

3.23%

2016 AND BEYOND
We look forward to restoring Peoples to acceptable 
levels of performance in 2016.  We expect loan demand 
to be similar to 2015 and for interest rates to rise slightly 
during the course of the year.  We will also be undertaking 
a conversion of our core operating system late in 2016 
that will further improve efficiency and broaden our 
operational capabilities. 

In 2016, we will continue our journey to become the “Best 
Community Bank in America.”  This long-term, aspirational 
goal will be achieved when we are consistently delivering 
superior returns to our shareholders, exceeding client 
expectations, upholding our culture of coaching and 
professional development, and deepening our support for 
the communities we serve.

FINAL THOUGHTS
I want to take this opportunity to introduce the two 
newest members of the Board of Directors for both 
Peoples Bancorp Inc. and Peoples Bank: Brooke W. 
James and S. Craig Beam.  Both served as members of 
the Board of Directors of NB&T and its wholly-owned 
subsidiary, The National Bank and Trust Company.  Brooke 
has been a partner for WMSALL Farms, her family’s 
farming operation, since 1999.  Craig has been an owner 
of Thorobeam Farm, LLC, a thoroughbred horse business 
since 2006, and a private investor since his retirement 
from the sand and gravel business in 1999.  We are 
fortunate to have both of these talented and experienced 
individuals serving on the Board. 

We look forward to continuing to serve those of you who 
are our clients, and rewarding those of you who are our 
shareholders.

All the best,

2015 2014

2013

NET INTEREST MARGIN

Chuck Sulerzyski, President and CEO

Chuck Sulerzyski, President and CEO

3

Setting the Foundation

Peoples’ past accomplishments and vision for the 
future rest upon our Four Pillars of Success.  Rooted 
in the fundamentals of community banking, sound 
practices, and a desire for excellence, these pillars 
represent the foundation of our goal to become the 
Best Community Bank in America.  Each of these pillars 
adds strength and support to the others.  Peoples’ Four 
Pillars of Success are the following:

Responsible Risk Management
As a financial institution, we are in the business of taking 
appropriate risk.  Only through responsible management 
of this risk do we position ourselves for future success. 
At Peoples, everyone is considered a risk manager. 
Maintaining compliance and the proper controls will help 
ensure that Peoples will remain sound and able to grow.

Extraordinary Client Experience
At Peoples, our goal is to consistently exceed client 
expectations and create raving fans.  Through trusted 
advice and thoughtful plans, our employees provide 
solutions that set the customer experience apart.  By 
asking the right questions, we uncover client needs 
and deliver the appropriate financial solutions to help 
our customers succeed.  While our brick and mortar 
locations provide an extraordinary in-person experience 
for our clients, we continue to invest in technology and 
capabilities that allow customers to conduct business 
through the channels that are most convenient for them.

Profitable Revenue Growth
A sound community bank that provides the best 
client experience is our formula for long-term growth 
for our shareholders.  This is also achieved through 
relentless execution of our sales culture and careful 
evaluation of acquisition opportunities.  Our broad 
capabilities in banking, investments, and insurance 
provide a diversified revenue base beyond the 
capabilities of many of our competitors.  

First-Class Workplace
Offering an extraordinary experience for our clients 
starts with a team of employees who truly care 
and have pride in what they do: helping customers 
succeed.  We hire associates based on their values 
and have established a culture of coaching and 
continuous improvement.  On-going development of 
associate skills and rewarding those who exemplify 
our culture creates sustainable excellence.  We strive 
to take care of our employees so that they will take 
care of our customers.  

In 2015, the Four Pillars helped to cement the 
foundation of success as we worked toward our goal 
of becoming the Best Community Bank in America. 
This is a lofty ambition but one that can be achieved 
using a roadmap that keeps us focused on what’s 
important: our shareholders, our customers, our 
employees and our communities.

4

Saundra Kesterson, Vice President - Director of Learning and Development 
with Peoples Bank Professional Development Associates

5

Historic Year for Peoples

2015 was a year of historic progress for Peoples. 
Acquisitions, enhancements to technology and 
service, and the continued deepening of our client 
relationships all contributed to our growth.  Peoples 
entered new markets and became more significant in 
our existing footprint by expanding our branch and 
ATM network and adding key services and capabilities. 
Throughout our 113-year history, there has never been 
a better time than now to make a meaningful impact 
for the greatest number of customers in the greatest 
number of communities.  Our growth and expansion in 
2015 was marked by the following:

•    Acquisition of NB&T Financial Group, Inc. 

(“NB&T”), $711 million in assets and 22 office 
locations in southwest Ohio

•    Acquisition of the Hedges Gallery of Insurance 

Agency in Lebanon, Ohio

•    Introduction of a new commercial banking team 

in southwest Ohio

The most significant undertaking of 2015 was the 
acquisition of NB&T.  This represented a historic 
step forward with the successful integration of our 
largest-ever acquisition.  Peoples expanded the 
services available to NB&T’s customers and markets - 
enhancing the capabilities with technology, expertise 
and execution.  Furthermore, we brought our 
“Commitment to Communities” core value to these 
markets and began to make a meaningful impact 
within these new communities. 

2015 was also highlighted by growth in our trust, 
brokerage, retirement planning and insurance 
sectors.  This growth was the result of flourishing 
partnerships between our businesses working 
together to help customers achieve their goals. 
These businesses strive to make our customers’ 
dreams come true by sitting side by side with them 
to help them plan, invest, protect and build success.

•    Addition of more than 24,000 surcharge-free 

ATMs nationwide through the MoneyPass® ATM 
Network

•    Significant efforts to increase operational 

efficiency including the introduction of a new 
electronic workflow process

As we look forward to 2016, our core operations 
are strong and growing, our efficiencies are 
improving, and we are making a bigger impact in the 
communities we serve.  This is just the beginning of 
our ongoing efforts to execute for our shareholders, 
customers, employees, and communities.

6

Peoples Bank Wilmington Main Office

7

Committed to Our 
Communities 

Ask a dozen bankers for the definition of “community bank,” and 
you will receive a dozen different answers.  For Peoples, an essential 
part of being a community bank is making a meaningful impact in the 
communities where we live, work and play.  Our associates help build 
those communities by fulfilling their customers’ financial needs.  Our 
organization donates monetary support through various charitable 
giving efforts, and our associates invest personal time and effort back 
into our communities.  We direct our giving into four categories:  

•  Community Investment & Economic Development
•  Youth & Education
•  Health & Human Services
•  Arts & Culture

Here are just a few examples of how we helped strengthen our 
communities in 2015:

Financial Literacy
In April of 2015, Peoples was honored with the Innovation in Financial 
Education Award by NASDAQ and EverFi.  Since 2012, Peoples 
has reached more than 3,400 area students with a web-based 
educational tool to help them achieve financial literacy.  Peoples 
Bancorp Foundation has contributed $53,000 to this effort.  As of 
year-end 2015, Peoples Bank has begun to expand this web-based 
tool to help local adults better understand financial topics such as 
buying a home, planning for retirement, etc.

Fighting Hunger
In 2015, Peoples Bancorp Foundation contributed $55,000 to 
local food banks in a coordinated effort to help fight hunger in our 
communities.  Peoples Bank associates joined the cause, raising more 
than $68,000 across our communities to add to the effort.

Peoples Bank Theatre
A new sign has been added to the historic storefronts of downtown 
Marietta, Ohio, with the completion of the fully renovated Peoples 
Bank Theatre in late 2015.  Peoples Bank worked closely with theatre 
representatives and civic leaders to turn the dream of reopening the 
historic theatre into a reality and providing a unique entertainment 
venue for the region. 

As the number of communities that we serve continues to grow, 
the opportunity to work with individuals and groups within those 
communities grows as well.  Side by side, we will continue to work 
together to successfully build stronger communities. 

8

Maps and 
Locations

OHIO
Athens County
Athens
Nelsonville
The Plains

Brown County
Georgetown
Mount Orab
Sardinia

Clermont County
Batavia
Milford
Owensville
Williamsburg

Clinton County
Blanchester
New Vienna
Sabina
Wilmington

Coshocton County
Coshocton

Cuyahoga County
Beachwood

Fairfield County
Baltimore
Lancaster

Franklin County
Worthington

Gallia County
Gallipolis

Guernsey County
Byesville
Cambridge

Highland County
Hillsboro

Jackson County
Jackson
Wellston

Knox County
Mount Vernon

Licking County
Heath
Newark

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

33

Nelsonville
Nelsonville
The Plains
The Plains

Coshocton
Coshocton

Cambridge
Cambridge

Zanesville
Zanesville

McConnelsville
McConnelsville

Lowell
Lowell

Byesville
Byesville

Caldwell
Caldwell

New Martinsville
New Martinsville

Sistersville
Sistersville

Marietta
Marietta

Belpre
Belpre

Athens
Athens

Reno
Reno

Vienna
Vienna
Parkersburg
Parkersburg

50

Morgantown
Morgantown

Worthington
Worthington

70

Columbus
Columbus

Centerville
Centerville

71

Chillicothe
Chillicothe

Carlisle
Carlisle
Franklin
Franklin

Springboro
Springboro
Lebanon
Lebanon
MasonMason
Cincinnati
Cincinnati

Waynesville
Waynesville

Sabina
Sabina
Wilmington
Wilmington

Maineville
Maineville

New Vienna
New Vienna

Blanchester
Blanchester

Milford
Milford
Owensville
Owensville

Williamsburg
Williamsburg

Hillsboro
Hillsboro

Sardinia
Sardinia

Batavia
Batavia

Mount Orab
Mount Orab

Jackson
Jackson

Wellston
Wellston

Pomeroy
Pomeroy

32

79

Georgetown
Georgetown

Gallipolis
Gallipolis

Point Pleasant
Point Pleasant

Greenup
Greenup

Russell
Russell

Ashland
Ashland

Summit
Summit

Huntington
Huntington

Charleston
Charleston

64

77

Pikeville
Pikeville

WEST VIRGINIA
Cabell County
Huntington

Kanawha County
Charleston

Mason County
Point Pleasant

Tyler County
Sistersville

Wetzel County
New Martinsville

Wood County
Parkersburg
Vienna

Meigs County
Pomeroy

Montgomery County
Centerville

Morgan County
McConnelsville

Muskingum County
Zanesville

Noble County
Caldwell

Ross County
Chillicothe

Summit County
Akron
Cuyahoga Falls
Munroe Falls
Norton

Tuscarawas County
New Philadelphia 

Warren County
Carlisle
Franklin
Lebanon
Maineville
Mason
Springboro
Waynesville

Washington County
Belpre
Lowell
Marietta
Reno

KENTUCKY
Boyd County
Ashland
Summit

Greenup County
Greenup
Russell

Pike County
Pikeville

9
15

Peoples Bancorp Inc. 
and Peoples Bank Directors

TARA M. ABRAHAM

Chairman and Co-CEO  

Accel, Inc. 

DAVID F. DIERKER

Retired Banking Executive

SunTrust Banks, Inc.

BRENDA F. JONES, M.D.

Retired Ophthalmologist

Marietta Healthcare Physicians, Inc.

CARL L. BAKER, JR.

RICHARD FERGUSON

DAVID L. MEAD

President and Chief Executive Officer

Chairman, Peoples Bancorp Inc.

Associate Professor

B & N Coal, Inc.

Owner

Marietta College

S. CRAIG BEAM

Owner

Thorobeam Farm, LLC

GEORGE W. BROUGHTON

Ferguson Consulting, LLC

JAMES S. HUGGINS

Attorney-At-Law

Theisen Brock, LPA

SUSAN D. RECTOR

Attorney-At-Law

Ice Miller LLP

CHUCK SULERZYSKI

Vice Chairman, Peoples Bancorp Inc.

BROOKE W. JAMES

President and Chief Executive Officer 

Owner and President

Partner

Peoples Bancorp Inc. and Peoples Bank

Broughton Commercial Properties, LLC

WMSALL Farms

GWB Specialty Foods, LLC

GWB Oil & Gas, LLC

THOMAS J. WOLF

Owner

McDonald’s Restaurants

10

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

JOHN C. ROGERS

Executive Vice President

Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer

CAROL A. SCHNEEBERGER

Executive Vice President

Chief Administrative Officer

M. RYAN KIRKHAM

General Counsel and Corporate Secretary

KATHRYN M. BAILEY

Controller

AMY M. AUCH

Assistant Corporate Secretary

ANNE P. GILLILAND

Assistant Corporate Secretary

CATHY M. LAWRENCE

Assistant Corporate Secretary

Peoples Bank  
Director Emeritus

HAROLD D. LAUGHLIN 

Peoples Bancorp Inc. 
Directors Emeritus

DAVE M. ARCHER 

FRANK L. CHRISTY 

WILFORD D. DIMIT

FRED R. PRICE 

ROBERT W. PRICE

T. PAT SAUBER

PAUL T. THEISEN

JOSEPH H. WESEL

In Memorium
Joseph H. Wesel 

May 2, 1929 to February 29, 2016

The Peoples Bank family expresses its 

sincere condolences to the family and 

friends of Joseph H. Wesel.  For 36 years, 

Mr. Wesel provided superior service to Peoples as a distinguished 

Board Member serving on various committees.  Mr. Wesel held the  

position of Chairman of the Board from 1991 until 2003 and from 

2005 to 2008.  He led with loyalty, dignity and vision.

Mr. Wesel left a lasting impression in Marietta as a devoted leader 

and servant in the community.  His legacy will be felt by many for 

generations to come, and his contributions not forgotten.

11

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

UBS Securities LLC

800-421-6172

Hovde Group, LLC

847-991-6622

JP Morgan

212-270-6000

Boenning & Scattergood, Inc.

Credit Suisse

Citigroup Global Markets Inc.

800-883-1212

212-325-2000

800-223-7743

Goldman Sachs & Co.

Sandler O’Neill and Partners

Barclays Capital

800-221-8320

800-635-6851

212-412-4000

Raymond James & Associates

Keefe, Bruyette, and Woods Inc.

Cantor Fitzgerald, L.P.

800-248-8863

212-887-7777

212-938-5000

Merrill Lynch

800-937-0516

12

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, 2015 

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, 2015, the aggregate market value of the registrant’s Common Shares (the only common equity of the registrant) held by 
non-affiliates was $414,006,000 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: 
18,176,291 common shares, without par value, at February 24, 2016.

  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
 
 
 
 
Table of Contents

Document Incorporated by Reference:
Portions of Registrant's definitive Proxy Statement relating to the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held April 28, 2016, 
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

23

24

24

24

25

27
29

63

63

64

64

64

120

121

121

122

122

123

124

126

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Table of Contents

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.  As of the date of this Form 10-K, Peoples' other wholly-owned subsidiary was 
Peoples Investment Company and Peoples held all of the common securities of NB&T Statutory Trust III, which was 
acquired in connection with the acquisition of NB&T Financial Group, Inc. ("NB&T") on March 6, 2015 as described below.  
Peoples Bank's operating subsidiaries include Peoples Insurance Agency, LLC ("Peoples Insurance") and two asset 
management companies, PBNA, L.L.C. and Peoples Tax Credit Equity, LLC.  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 in 2000 was reorganized as a national banking association under the name "Peoples 
Bank, National Association".  Effective December 30, 2015, the banking subsidiary converted from a national banking 
association back to an Ohio state-chartered bank which is a member of the Federal Reserve System.  As a result of the charter 
conversion, the legal name of Peoples' banking subsidiary was changed to "Peoples Bank" and the converted bank will 
continue to operate under the trade name and federally registered service mark "Peoples Bank".  Additionally, Peoples' 
banking subsidiary will see a reduction in the annual cost associated with regulatory examination fees commencing in 2016.  
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, LLC. 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 affordable 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;
credit cards for individuals and businesses;
merchant credit card transaction processing services;
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;
brokerage services; and
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 Bank credit card and merchant processing services are provided, through joint marketing arrangements with third 
parties.

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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, 2015, 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 may include 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-
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 investments; and (4) improving operating efficiency by directing resources toward offices and markets with the 
greatest earnings opportunities.

Recent Corporate Developments

On March 6, 2015, Peoples completed its acquisition of NB&T, which included the assumption of Fixed/Floating Rate 
Junior Subordinated Debt Securities due 2037 (the "junior subordinated debt securities") at an acquisition-date fair value of 
$6.6 million held in NB&T Statutory Trust III, a Delaware statutory trust whose common securities were wholly-owned by 
NB&T (the "Statutory Trust").  The sole assets of the Statutory Trust are the junior subordinated debt securities and related 
payments.  The junior subordinated debt securities and the back-up obligations, in the aggregate, constitute a full and 
unconditional guarantee of the obligations of the Statutory Trust with respect to the Capital Securities held by third-party 
investors.  Distributions on the Capital Securities are payable at the annual rate of 1.50% over the 3-month LIBOR.  
Distributions on the Capital Securities are included in interest expense in the Consolidated Financial Statements.  These 
securities are considered Tier I capital (with certain limitations applicable) under current regulatory guidelines.  The junior 
subordinated debt securities are subject to mandatory redemption, in whole or in part, upon repayment of the Capital 
Securities at maturity or their earlier redemption at the liquidation amount.  Subject to prior approval of the Federal Reserve, 
the Capital Securities are redeemable prior to the maturity date of September 6, 2037, and are redeemable at par.  Since 
September 6, 2012, the Capital Securities have been redeemable at par, subject to such approval.  Distributions on the Capital 
Securities can be deferred from time to time for a period not to exceed 20 consecutive semi-annual periods.  If Peoples 
elected to defer payments of interest on the junior subordinated debt securities, or an event of default were to occur under the 
indenture governing the junior subordinated debt securities, Peoples would be prohibited from declaring or paying any 
dividends on the Peoples common shares, prohibited from redeeming, repurchasing or otherwise acquiring any of the Peoples 
common shares and prohibited from making any payment to holders of Peoples common shares in the event of Peoples' 
liquidation.

Effective December 30, 2015, Peoples' banking subsidiary converted from a national banking association to an Ohio 
state-chartered bank which is a member of the Federal Reserve System.  As a result of the charter conversion, the legal name 
of Peoples' banking subsidiary was changed to "Peoples Bank" and the converted bank will continue to operate under the 
trade name and federally registered service mark "Peoples Bank".  Additionally, Peoples' banking subsidiary will see a 
reduction in the annual cost associated with regulatory examination fees commencing in 2016.

On January 6, 2016, Peoples acquired a book of business from a financial advisor that was located in Marietta, Ohio.  

Upon the terms and conditions of the purchase agreement, Peoples acquired certain rights with respect to that book of 
business in exchange for payments to be made by Peoples to the seller.  

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, which includes northeastern, central, southwestern and southeastern Ohio, west central West Virginia, and 
northeastern Kentucky.  Peoples currently operates 63 locations in Ohio, 14 locations in West Virginia and 5 locations in 
Kentucky.  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, agriculture and other social services; plastics, 
petrochemical and other manufacturing; oil, gas and coal production; and tourism and other service-related industries.  
Because of this diversity of industries and employers, Peoples' earnings are not significantly dependent upon any single 
industry segment.

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Table of Contents

Lending Activities

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

commercial and industrial loans, agriculture, 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, and portions of select commercial real estate and commercial and industrial loans are sold into 
the secondary market.

Peoples Bank's loans consist of credit extensions to borrowers spread over a broad range of industrial classifications.  At 
December 31, 2015, 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, represented the largest portion of Peoples Bank's total loan portfolio, comprising approximately 
52.5% and 51.6% of total loans at December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively.  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, the primary source of repayment for commercial loans is typically 
considered to be the cash flows of the borrower's business, which can be susceptible to adverse changes in the economic 
conditions of the general  economy or within 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, although Peoples 
Bank also originates commercial loans with fixed interest rates for periods generally ranging from 3 to 10 years.  At 
December 31, 2015, the commercial loan portfolio consisted of 71.8% variable interest rate loans and 28.2% fixed 
interest rate loans. The primary analytical technique used in determining whether to grant a commercial loan is the 
review of a schedule of cash flows to evaluate whether the borrower's anticipated future cash flows will be adequate 
to service both interest and principal due.  

Peoples Bank evaluates all loan relationships whose aggregate credit exposure is greater than $5,000,000 on a 
quarterly basis and exposure greater than $1 million on an annual basis, 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 outstanding exposure.  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 credit exposure to Peoples Bank is equal to or 
less than $1 million are reviewed on an event driven basis.  Triggers for review include knowledge of adverse events 
affecting the borrower's business, receipt of financial statements indicating deteriorating credit quality or 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, 2015, outstanding construction loans comprised 3.7% of 
Peoples Bank's loan portfolio, compared to 2.4% at December 31, 2014.  Construction financing is generally considered 
to involve the highest credit 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 property 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 

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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, giving consideration to 
weather or other variables that influence completion time. In general, Peoples Bank typically requires the term of its 
construction loans to be less than three years.    

Residential Real Estate Loans

While commercial loans comprise the largest portion of Peoples Bank's loan portfolio, residential real estate lending 
remains a major focus of Peoples Bank. The originated loans may either be retained in Peoples Bank's loan portfolio, or 
sold into the secondary market.  Peoples Bank's portfolio of residential real estate loans comprised 27.3% of total loans 
at December 31, 2015, and 29.6% at December 31, 2014.  Peoples Bank also had $2.0 million of residential real estate 
loans held for sale and was servicing $390.4 million of loans, consisting primarily of one-to-four family residential 
mortgages, previously sold in the secondary market.  Peoples Bank requires evidence of insurance at the time of the loan 
closing, and additionally, has a blanket insurance policy to cover residential real estate loans that do not include an  
insurance escrow account. 

Peoples Bank originates both fixed-rate and adjustable-rate real estate loans.  Typically, Peoples Banks sells its 
longer-term fixed-rate real estate loans in the secondary market, while retaining the 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. Numerous risk 
factors attributable to real estate lending are considered during underwriting for the purposes of establishing an 
interest rate commensurate with the inherent risks of the loan. 

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 requires insurance, with 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, 2015, outstanding home equity lines of credit comprised 5.1% of Peoples 
Bank's total loans, compared to 5.0% at December 31, 2014.  Peoples Bank currently offers home equity lines of credit 
with a prime-based variable rate for the entire 10-year term of the loan and fixed-rate installment loans with 5 to 15 year 
terms.  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.  Of the total home equity loan portfolio, there were 
94.2% and 5.8% of variable interest rate and fixed interest rate loans, respectively.   At December 31, 2015, total 
outstanding principal balances and available credit amounts of the convertible rate home equity lines of credit were $19.0 
million and $20.4 million, respectively, and the weighted-average remaining maturity was 7.8 years.  The average 
original loan amount for these convertible rate home equity lines of credit was approximately $33,000 at December 31, 
2015.

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 5 to 15-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, as well as unsecured loans and personal lines of credit.  At December 31, 2015 and 
December 31, 2014, consumer loans comprised 11.3% of Peoples Bank's loan portfolio.

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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 or, 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 
ongoing standards, while strictly adhering 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, and select commercial deposit customers, by establishing an Overdraft 
Privilege amount.  After a 60-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 such as 
previous charge-off history or loan loss.  Once established, customers are permitted to overdraw their checking account 
at Peoples Bank's discretion, up to their Overdraft Privilege limit, with each item being charged Peoples Bank's regular 
overdraft fee, with a maximum of seven charges per day when the customer's account is overdrawn more than $5.  
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, these fees may be offset by loan 
loss provisioning necessary to ensure the maintenance of an appropriate allowance for losses against 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, 2015, investment securities comprised 26.7% of Peoples' total assets compared to 27.8% at December 
31, 2014.  The majority of Peoples' investment activities are conducted through Peoples Bank, although Peoples and its non-
banking subsidiaries also may 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 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 Bank's investment activities are governed internally by a written Board of Directors-approved policy, which is 

administered by Peoples Bank's Asset-Liability Management Committee ("ALCO").  The primary purpose of Peoples Bank's 
investment portfolio is to: (1) employ excess funds not needed to support 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 Peoples Bank's risk appetite and 
liquidity 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 Bank's 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.

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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 has the ability, if needed, to obtain deposits from 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") and repurchase agreements.  Peoples also has the ability to 
obtain funds, if needed, through federal funds purchased and advances from the Federal Reserve Discount Window.   
Peoples also has the ability to obtain 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 fund 
providers.  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 

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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, product 
characteristics, interest rates 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, including higher lending limits 
than Peoples, which may adversely affect 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.  

Historically, Peoples 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, southwestern and northeastern Ohio.  These larger areas typically contain entrenched service providers with 
existing customer bases much larger than Peoples' current 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 derived 
from such markets.

Employees

At December 31, 2015, Peoples had 817 full-time equivalent employees compared to 699 at December 31, 2014.  The 
increase in full-time equivalent employees from December 31, 2014 to December 31, 2015  was largely attributable to the 
acquisition of NB&T completed on March 6, 2015.

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 5 to 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 
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 required to file 
reports and other information with the Federal Reserve Board regarding its business operations and those of its 
subsidiaries.  

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Subsidiary Bank  

Effective December 30, 2015, Peoples Bank converted from a national banking association into an Ohio state-
chartered bank which is a member of the Federal Reserve System. Peoples Bank had no disputes with the Office of the 
Comptroller of the Currency (the "OCC") in relation to the conversion of Peoples Bank to a state-chartered bank. 
Peoples Bank is now primarily supervised by the Ohio Division of Financial Institutions ("ODFI") and the Federal 
Reserve Bank of Cleveland.  Peoples Bank is also subject to regulations of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau 
(the “CFPB”), which regulates consumer financial products and services and certain financial services providers. 

Various requirements and restrictions under the laws of the United States and the states of Ohio, West Virginia and 

Kentucky affect the operations of Peoples Bank, including requirements to maintain reserves against deposits, 
restrictions on the nature and amount of loans that may be made and the interest that may be charged thereon, restrictions 
relating to investments and other activities, limitations on credit exposure to correspondent banks, limitations on 
activities based on capital and surplus, limitations on transactions between Peoples Bank and Peoples, limitations on the 
payment of dividends, and limitations on branching.  Consumer laws and regulations designed to prevent unfair, 
deceptive or abusive acts or practices, and to ensure that consumers have access to fair, transparent and competitive 
markets for consumer financial products and services, affect the services provided to Peoples Bank customers.   

Peoples' banking subsidiary will see a reduction in the annual cost associated with regulatory examination fees 
commencing in 2016, as a result of the change from a national banking association to an Ohio state-charted bank which 
is a member of the Federal Reserve System. 

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 ("FDIC").  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 the Deposit Insurance Fund of the FDIC and Peoples Bank is 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 has proposed changing the deposit insurance premium assessment method for banks with less 

than $10 billion in assets that have been insured by the FDIC for at least five years.  The proposed changes 
would revise the financial ratios method so that it would be based on a statistical model estimating the 
probability of failure of a bank over three years; update the financial measures used in the financial ratios 

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method consistent with the statistical model; eliminate risk categories for established small banks; and use the 
financial ratios method to determine assessment rates for all such banks (subject to minimum or maximum 
initial assessment rates based upon a bank’s composite examination rating).

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 Wall Street Reform and Consumer 
Protection Act of 2010 (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 some 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 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;

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

new  corporate  governance  requirements  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 Federal Reserve Board has established rules regarding interchange fees charged for electronic debit transactions 
by payment card issuers having assets over $10 billion.  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 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.

Some aspects of the Dodd-Frank Act are still subject to rulemaking and will take effect in the coming years, making 

it difficult to anticipate the full 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 most likely further 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 Secretary of the Treasury, or (2) complementary to a financial activity, and that does not pose a substantial risk 

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to the safety and soundness of depository institutions or the financial system generally.  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 Federal Reserve Board is required for a state-chartered, Federal Reserve Bank member 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 under 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 
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".  

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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 banks. 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%.

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 phased in beginning in 2015 and will continue through 2019.  

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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.

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 phased in starting 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 tier 1 risk-
based capital ratio of at least 8.0%, a total risk-based capital of at least 10.0%, 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, 2015, the most recent performance evaluation by the OCC (which was Peoples 
Bank's primary federal banking regulator at the time of the examination) 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 
Federal Reserve Board 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 Federal Reserve Board. Ohio law also 
limits the amount of dividends that may be paid in any given year without prior approval of the Ohio Superintendent of 
Financial Institutions.  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. 

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 Federal Reserve 
Board or other regulatory approval.  In addition, if Peoples were to elect to defer payments of interest on the junior 
subordinated debt securities held by the Statutory Trust or an event of default were to occur under the indenture 
governing those junior subordinated debt securities, Peoples would be prohibited from declaring or paying any dividends 

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on Peoples' common shares.  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, 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.

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. 
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 

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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.

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.

•  Changes in economic and political conditions could adversely affect Peoples’ earnings through declines in 

deposits, loan demand, the ability of its customers to repay loans and the value of the collateral securing its loans.
Peoples’ success depends, in part, on economic and political conditions, local and national, as well as governmental 
fiscal and monetary policies.  Conditions such as inflation, recession, unemployment, changes in interest rates, fiscal and 

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monetary policy and other factors beyond Peoples’ control may adversely affect its deposit levels and composition, 
demand for loans, the ability of its borrowers to repay their loans, and the value of the collateral securing the loans it 
makes.  Economic turmoil in Europe and Asia and changes in oil production in the Middle East affect the economy and 
stock prices in the United States, which can affect Peoples’ earnings and capital, and the ability of its customers to repay 
loans. 

The local economies of the majority of Peoples' market areas historically have been less robust than the economy of 

the nation as a whole and typically are not subject to the same extent of 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; volatility in pricing and availability of 
natural resources; natural disasters; or a combination of these or other factors.

Some businesses, states and municipalities are having difficulty, due to reduced cash flow and weakened financial 
condition, despite the general recovery of the economy from the recession that started in 2008.  Moreover, any reversal 
of recent improvements in economic conditions 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.

•  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. 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 and 2015, Peoples completed four 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 below those estimated.  In addition, we may issue equity securities in connection with acquisitions which 
could dilute the economic and voting interests of our shareholders.

•  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 ODFI, 
the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland, 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 

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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 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 
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 may 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. 

•  Recently enacted and further financial regulatory reforms may adversely impact Peoples’ results of operations 

and financial condition.

On July 21, 2010, the Dodd-Frank Act was signed into law.  The Dodd-Frank Act and regulations adopted under it 

constituted a major change in the financial services industry throughout the United States and have significantly 
impacted the way in which Peoples and Peoples Bank conduct business.  Some provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act remain 
to be implemented and interpreted by the banking regulators and the SEC, and the full effect of that law is not yet 
known.  Nonetheless, the parts of the law and regulations that have been implemented have already resulted in increased 
compliance costs and may result in increased fees paid to regulators, as well as restrictions on the operations of Peoples 
and its subsidiaries, all of which may have a material adverse effect on the results of operations and financial condition 
of Peoples.

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

The 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 a limited amount of 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.

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•  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 revolving credit note of Peoples 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 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.

•  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 in recent 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 continue to 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.  In addition, the FDIC has proposed changes to its 
assessment system for banks with less than $10 billion in assets that have been insured by the FDIC for at least five 
years.  It is uncertain how a final new assessment system might affect Peoples Bank's deposit insurance premiums in the 
future.

•  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 that Peoples will have inaccurate or 

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incomplete information about borrowers, risks that borrowers will become unable to repay loans, and, in the case of 
loans secured by collateral, risks resulting from uncertainties about the future value of the collateral.

Commercial 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 may also have concentrated credit exposures to a particular industry, resulting 
in a risk of a material adverse effect on earnings or financial condition, if there is an event adversely affecting that 
industry.

•  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 portfolio.  The determination of the 
allowance for loan losses requires management to make various assumptions and judgments about the collectability of 
Peoples' loans, 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.

If Peoples' assumptions prove to be incorrect, Peoples' allowance for loan losses may not be sufficient to cover the 
incurred losses from its loan portfolio, resulting in the need for 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 required increase in the allowance for loan losses would be a capital charge at adoption and the future 
impact could potentially decrease Peoples' pretax and net income going forward.

•  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 

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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 or 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, and Peoples may not be in the position to pay dividends in the future.  
Although Peoples has paid dividends on its common shares in the past, Peoples may reduce or eliminate dividends 
in the future, in the discretion of the Board of Directors, for any reason, including a determination to use funds for other 
purposes, or due to regulatory constraints.  Peoples is a separate and distinct legal entity from Peoples' subsidiaries.  
Peoples receives nearly all of its liquidity from dividends from Peoples Bank, which are limited by federal and state 
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' 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, designed to ensure the computer systems 
will not be inoperable, to the extent possible.  Nonetheless, risks to the systems result from a variety of factors, including 
the potential for bad acts on the part of hackers, criminals, employees or others.  As one example, in recent years, some 
banks have experienced denial of service attacks in which individuals or organizations flood the bank’s website with 
extraordinarily high volumes of traffic, with the goal and effect of disrupting the ability of the bank to process 
transactions.  Peoples is also at risk from the impact of natural disasters, terrorism and internal hostilities on its systems 
or for the effects of outages or other failures involving power or communications systems operated by others.  These 
risks also arise from the same types of threats to businesses with which Peoples deals.  

Peoples’ systems and those of its third-party service providers may also be vulnerable to security breaches that result 
in confidential customer information being lost or misappropriated.  Any security breach involving confidential customer 
information, whether by Peoples or its vendors, or any interruption to Peoples’ systems, could result in damage to its 
reputation, loss of customer business, litigation or increased regulatory scrutiny, which might also result in financial loss 
and require additional efforts and expense to attempt to prevent such adverse consequences in the future.

•  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.

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•  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.

Peoples may be subject to disruptions of its operating systems arising from events that are wholly or partially 

beyond its control, which may include, for example, computer viruses, cyber-attacks, spikes in transaction volume and/or 
customer activity, electrical or telecommunications outages, or natural disasters. Although Peoples has programs in place 
related to business continuity, disaster recovery and information security to maintain the confidentiality, integrity and 
availability of its systems, business applications and customer information, such disruptions may give rise to 
interruptions in service to customers, loss of data privacy and loss or liability to Peoples. 

Any failure or interruption in Peoples' operations or information systems, or any security or data breach, could cause 
reputational damage, jeopardize the confidentiality of customer information, result in a loss of customer business, subject 
Peoples to regulatory intervention or expose Peoples to civil litigation and financial loss or liability, any of which could 
have a material adverse effect on Peoples. 

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' business could be adversely affected by third-party service providers, data breaches and cyber-attacks.
Peoples faces the risk of operational disruption, failure or capacity constraints due to its dependency on third-party 
vendors for components of its business infrastructure. While Peoples has selected these third-party vendors through its 
vendor management processes, Peoples does not control their operations. As such, any failure on the part of these 
business partners to perform their various responsibilities could also adversely affect Peoples' business and operations.

Further, Peoples may be affected by data breaches at retailers and other third parties who participate in data 
interchanges with Peoples and its customers that involve the theft of customer credit and debit card data, which may 
include the theft of Peoples' debit card PIN numbers and commercial card information used to make purchases at such 
retailers and other third parties. Such data breaches could result in Peoples' incurring significant expenses to reissue debit 
cards and cover losses, which could result in a material adverse effect on Peoples' results of operations. 

To date, Peoples has not experienced any material losses relating to cyber-attacks or other information security 
breaches, but there can be no assurance that Peoples will not suffer such attacks or attempted breaches, or incur resulting 
losses in the future. Peoples' risk and exposure to these matters remains heightened because of, among other things, the 
evolving nature of these threats, Peoples' plans to continue to implement Internet and mobile banking to meet customer 
demand, and the current economic and political environment. As cyber and other data security threats continue to evolve, 
Peoples may be required to expend significant additional resources to continue to modify and enhance its protective 
measures or to investigate and remediate any security vulnerabilities. 

Peoples’s assets which are at risk for cyber-attacks include financial assets and non-public information belonging to 
customers. Peoples utilizes several third-party vendors who have access to Peoples' assets via electronic media. Certain 
cyber security risks arise due to this access, including cyber espionage, blackmail, ransom, and theft. Peoples employs 
many preventive and detective controls to protect its assets, and provides mandatory recurring information security 
training to all employees.  Peoples maintains certain insurance coverage to prevent material financial loss from cyber-
attacks.

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•  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.

•  Peoples Bank may be required to repurchase loans it has sold or indemnify loan purchasers under the terms of 

the sale agreements, which could adversely affect Peoples’ liquidity, results of operations and financial condition.
When Peoples Bank sells a mortgage loan, it may agree to repurchase or substitute a mortgage loan if it is later 
found to have breached any representation or warranty Peoples made about the loan or if the borrower is later found to 
have committed fraud in connection with the origination of the loan.  While Peoples Bank has underwriting policies and 
procedures designed to avoid breaches of representations and warranties as well as borrower fraud, there can be no 
assurance that no breach or fraud will ever occur.  Required repurchases, substitutions or indemnifications could have an 
adverse effect on Peoples’ liquidity, results of operations and financial condition.

•  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 
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.

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Table of Contents

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, Batavia, Beachwood, Belpre (2 
offices), Blanchester, Byesville, Caldwell, Cambridge (2 offices), Carlisle, Centerville, Coshocton (2 Offices), Cuyahoga 
Falls, Franklin, Gallipolis, Georgetown, Heath, Hillsboro, Jackson, Lancaster (2 offices), Lebanon, Lowell, Maineville, 
Marietta (5 offices), Mason, McConnelsville, Milford, Mount Orab, Mount Vernon, Munroe Falls, Nelsonville, New 
Philadelphia, New Vienna, Newark, Norton, Owensville, Pomeroy (2 offices), Sabina, Sardina, Springboro, The Plains, 
Waynesville, Wellston, Williamsburg, Wilmington (3 offices), 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 78 offices, 17 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, Jackson and Lebanon, Ohio, and in Pikeville, Kentucky.

Rent expense on the leased properties totaled $959,000 in 2015, compared to $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 2017:

Location

Jackson Insurance Office

Owensville Office

Lebanon Insurance Office

The Plains

Pikeville Insurance Office

Beachwood Office

Lancaster Fair Avenue Office

Marietta Kroger

Address

Lease Expiration Date (a)

78 Broadway Street
Jackson, Ohio
227 West Main Street
Owensville, Ohio
46 North Broadway Street
Lebanon, Ohio
70 N. Plains Road
The Plains, Ohio
233 Cassidy Boulevard Suite 2
Pikeville, Kentucky 
24400 Chagrin Blvd
Beachwood, Ohio
2211 West Fair Ave
Lancaster, Ohio
40 Acme Street
Marietta, Ohio

May 2016

June 2016

July 2016

December 2016

February 2017

March 2017

March 2017

March 2017

(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.

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Table of Contents

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, 

2015, Peoples had approximately 2,456 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.

2015

Fourth Quarter

Third Quarter

Second Quarter

First Quarter
2014

Fourth Quarter

Third Quarter

Second Quarter

First Quarter

High 
Sales

Low
Sales

Dividends
Declared

$

22.00 $

18.12 $

24.33

24.74

26.01

20.63

22.65

22.63

$

26.65 $

23.39 $

28.00

27.36

26.10

23.00

23.58

20.29

0.15

0.15

0.15

0.15

0.15

0.15

0.15

0.15

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, 2015:

(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 (or 
Approximate Dollar 
Value) of Common 
Shares that May Yet Be 
Purchased Under the 
Plans or Programs (1)

2,053 (2)(3) $
1,811 (2)
$
850 (2)

$
  $

19.59 (2)(3)
20.70 (2)
18.89 (2)
19.89

—

— $

— $
—

—

20,000,000

20,000,000

Period

October 1 - 31, 2015

November 1 - 30, 2015

December 1 - 31, 2015

Total

4,714

(2) 

(1)  On November 3, 2015, Peoples' Board of Directors authorized a share repurchase program authorizing Peoples to purchase up to $20 million of its 
outstanding common shares.  No common shares were purchased under this share repurchase program during 2015.  Additional information regarding 
the share repurchase program 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.
Information includes 398 common shares, 1,484 common shares, and 200 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.
Includes 1,655 common shares, 327 common shares, and 650 common shares withheld during October, November, and December, respectively, to 
pay income tax or other tax liabilities associated with vested restricted common shares.

(3) 

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Table of Contents

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, 2010, 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

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

$ 100.00 $
$ 100.00 $
$ 100.00 $

96.93 $
99.21 $
89.47 $

2010

2011

At December 31,
2013
2012
136.61 $ 154.29 $
116.70 $ 163.58 $
106.09 $ 150.36 $

2014
182.20 $
187.84 $
157.75 $

2015
136.03
201.19
171.70

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Table of Contents

ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

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

Operating Data (a)

Total interest income

Total interest expense

Net interest income

Provision for (recovery of) loan losses

Net (loss) gain on investment securities and other  
  transactions

Total non-interest income

FDIC insurance expense

Other expense

Preferred dividends (b)

At or For the Year Ended December 31,

2015

2014

2013

2012

2011

$

108,333 $

80,200 $

67,071 $

69,470 $

10,721

97,612

14,097

(1,059)
47,441

2,084

112,997

—

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

—

75,133

21,154

53,979

7,998

(443)
32,944

1,867

59,464

1,343

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

Total investment securities

$

$

10,941 $

16,684 $

17,574 $

20,385 $

11,212

868,830 $

713,659 $

680,526 $

709,085 $

669,228

Loans, net of deferred fees and costs

2,072,440

1,620,898

1,196,234

985,172

938,506

Allowance for loan losses

Total intangible assets

Total assets

Non-interest-bearing deposits

Brokered certificates of deposits

Other interest-bearing deposits

Short-term borrowings

Junior subordinated debentures held by subsidiary trust

Other long-term borrowings

Total stockholders' equity

Tangible assets (c)

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

16,779

149,617

17,881

109,158

17,065

77,603

17,811

68,525

23,717

64,475

3,258,970

2,567,769

2,059,108

1,918,050

1,794,161

717,939

33,857

493,162

39,691

409,891

49,041

317,071

55,599

239,837

64,054

1,784,148

1,400,221

1,121,826

1,119,633

1,047,189

160,386

6,736

106,934

419,789

88,277

113,590

47,769

—

179,083

340,118

—

121,826

221,553

—

128,823

221,728

51,643

22,600

142,312

206,657

3,109,353

2,458,611

1,981,505

1,849,525

1,729,686

270,172

230,960

143,950

153,203

142,182

Earnings per common share – basic

Earnings per common share – diluted

Cash dividends declared per common share

Book value per common share (d)

$

0.62 $

1.36 $

1.65 $

1.92 $

0.61

0.60

22.81

1.35

0.60

22.92

1.63

0.54

20.89

1.92

0.45

21.02

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

$

14.68 $

15.57 $

13.57 $

14.52 $

1.07

1.07

0.30

19.67

13.53

Weighted-average number of common shares
outstanding –  basic

Weighted-average number of common shares
outstanding –  diluted

17,555,140 12,183,352 10,581,222 10,527,885 10,482,318

17,687,795 12,306,224 10,679,417 10,528,286 10,482,318

Common shares outstanding at end of period

18,404,864 14,836,727 10,605,782 10,547,960 10,507,124

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Table of Contents

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 ("OREO") (d)(g)

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

Net charge-offs (recoveries) as a percent of average total loans (h)
Capital Ratios (a)(c)
Common Equity Tier 1
Tier 1
Total (Tier 1 and Tier 2)
Tier 1 leverage
Tangible equity to tangible assets (c)

At or For the Year Ended December 31,

2015

2014

2013

2012

2011

2.69% 6.16 % 7.92 %
2.69
0.35
3.53
75.50
0.96
13.09
80.08
96.35% 43.10 % 33.20 % 23.58% 28.35%

5.72%
5.61
0.69
3.43
68.98
1.41
12.12
69.86

9.52%
9.52
1.11
3.36
69.55
1.41
11.63
68.23

6.16
0.74
3.45
75.37
1.10
12.08
79.58

7.92
0.91
3.23
71.90
1.26
11.48
70.79

0.94% 0.69 % 0.60 %
0.62

0.47

0.39

1.43%
0.78

3.26%
1.83

0.98

1.19

0.75

1.48

0.67

1.58

1.52

1.86

3.48

2.53

86.05

159.58

237.87

125.34

77.26

0.72

0.02

(0.42)

(0.49)

0.84

0.78% (0.03)% (0.35)%

0.12%

1.16%

13.37% N/A
14.32
13.68
15.48
14.55
9.92
9.52
9.39
8.69

N/A
12.42
13.78
8.52
7.26

N/A
14.06
15.43
8.83
8.28

N/A
14.86
16.20
9.45
8.22

(a)  Reflects the impact of the acquisition of NB&T beginning March 6, 2015, of Midwest beginning May 30, 2014, of Ohio Heritage beginning 

August 22, 2014 and of North Akron beginning October 24, 2014.

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

Program. 

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

(which excludes gains or losses on investment securities, asset disposals and other transactions). 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 “Efficiency Ratio”.

(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.

(h)  Net charge-offs (recoveries) as a percent of average total loans increased in 2015 as Peoples recorded a $13.1 million charge-off associated with 

one large commercial relationship, resulting in 0.67% of the reported amount of 0.78%.  

(i)  The decrease is primarily due to a reduction in the five year historical loss rates.  Additional information regarding the allowance for loan losses 

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 "Allowance for Loan Losses".

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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) 

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 NB&T acquisition and any future acquisitions may be unsuccessful, or may 
be more difficult, time-consuming or costly than expected;

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, its 
customers and its counterparties, 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 economic conditions and/or activities, including, but not limited to, continued economic 
uncertainty in the U.S., the European Union, Asia, and other areas, which could decrease sales volumes and 
increase loan delinquencies and defaults;

legislative or regulatory changes or actions, promulgated and to be promulgated thereunder by the State of 
Ohio, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, the OCC, the Federal Reserve Board and the CFPB, 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, including in 
particular the rules and regulations promulgated and to be promulgated under the Dodd-Frank Act; 

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

(14) 

Peoples' ability to receive dividends from its subsidiaries;

(15) 

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

(16) 

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

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Table of Contents

(17) 

(18) 

(19) 

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;

(20) 

the overall adequacy of Peoples' risk management program;

(21) 

(22) 

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 industry or Peoples as detailed from time to time in Peoples' reports 
filed with the SEC, including those risk factors included in the disclosures under the heading "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: 

On January 6, 2016, Peoples Bank acquired a small financial advisory book of business in Marietta, Ohio for cash 
consideration of $0.5 million.  This acquisition did not materially impact Peoples' financial position, results of 
operations or cash flows.

During 2015, Peoples recorded aggregate charge-offs of $13.1 million on a single impaired commercial loan 
relationship consisting of four impaired loans.  As of December 31, 2015, Peoples net recorded investment with 
respect to these loans was zero.

On December 30, 2015, Peoples announced that Peoples Bank, National Association, the banking subsidiary of 
Peoples, converted from a national banking association into an Ohio state-chartered bank which is a member of the 
Federal Reserve System. As a result of the charter conversion, the legal name of Peoples' banking subsidiary was 
changed to "Peoples Bank" and the converted bank will continue to operate under the trade name and federally 
registered service mark "Peoples Bank." Additionally, Peoples' banking subsidiary will see a reduction in the annual 
cost associated with regulatory examination fees commencing in 2016.

On November 3, 2015, Peoples announced that its Board of Directors approved and adopted a share repurchase 
program authorizing Peoples to purchase, from time to time, up to an aggregate of $20 million of its outstanding 
common shares.  As of February 24, 2016, Peoples had repurchased an aggregate of 253,870 common shares with a 
total cost of $4.5 million, although none of these common shares was purchased in 2015.

On July 24, 2015, Peoples repaid the principal balance of the $12.0 million term loan then outstanding under the 
Amended Loan Agreement described in Note 9 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements. There were no 
early termination fees associated with the repayment.  The revolving credit loan commitment available under the 
Amended Loan Agreement remains outstanding.

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On July 21, 2015, Peoples Insurance acquired an insurance agency and related customer accounts in the Lebanon, 
Ohio area for total cash consideration of $0.9 million, and recorded $0.5 million of customer relationship intangibles 
and $0.4 million of goodwill.

At the close of business on March 6, 2015, Peoples completed the acquisition of NB&T Financial Group, Inc. 
("NB&T").  Under the terms of the merger agreement, Peoples paid $7.75 in cash and 0.9319 in Peoples' common 
shares for each of the 3,442,329 outstanding NB&T common shares for a total consideration of $102.7 million.  
NB&T merged into Peoples and NB&T's wholly-owned subsidiary, The National Bank and Trust Company, which 
operated 22 full-service branches in southwest Ohio, merged into Peoples Bank.  The acquisition added $384.6 
million of loans and $629.5 million of deposits at the acquisition date, after acquisition accounting adjustments.

At the close of business on October 24, 2014, Peoples completed the acquisition of North Akron Savings Bank 
("North Akron") and its 4 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 acquisition accounting 
adjustments.

At the close of business on August 22, 2014, Peoples completed the acquisition of Ohio Heritage Bancorp, Inc. 
("Ohio Heritage") and the 6 full-service offices of its subsidiary, Ohio Heritage Bank, 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 acquisition 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 used the proceeds, in part, to fund the cash consideration for the NB&T acquisition.

At the close of business on May 30, 2014, Peoples completed the acquisition of Midwest Bancshares, Inc. 
("Midwest") and the 2 full-service offices of its subsidiary, First National Bank of Wellston, 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 acquisition 
accounting adjustments.

In 2015, Peoples incurred an aggregate of $11.3 million of acquisition-related expenses, compared to $5.1 million in 
2014 and $1.5 million in 2013, which were primarily severance costs, fees for legal services and 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 contracts (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 BOLI contracts 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 $459,000 during 2015 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 
$1.4 million and $270,000 were recognized during 2014 and 2013, 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.  In 2014, Peoples acquired Midwest, Ohio Heritage and 

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North Akron and in 2015 acquired NB&T and has continued the consistent company-wide brand revitalization in the 
newly-acquired facilities.  

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.

In December 2015, the Federal Reserve Board raised short-term rates, including the Federal Funds Rate and the 
Discount Rate, 0.25%, to a range of 0.25% to 0.50% for the Federal Funds Rate and 1.00% for the Discount Rate.  
The Federal Reserve Board had previously maintained its target Federal Funds Rate at a historically low level of 0% 
to 0.25% since December 2008 and had maintained the Discount Rate at 0.75% since December 2010.  The Federal 
Reserve Board has indicated the possibility that these short-term rates could again be raised in 2016.

The Federal Reserve ended its program of quantitative easing in the fourth quarter of 2014.  Much speculation 
occurred throughout 2015 as to when the Federal Reserve would begin to raise short-term interest rates.  The yield on 
the 10-year Treasury note began the year with a significant rally, falling from 2.17% to 1.64% during the month of 
January.  The yield peaked half way through 2015 at 2.49%.  It fell below 2% again in October and traded in a range 
between 2.13% and 2.34% during the last two months of the year.  Overall, the Treasury yield curve steepened 
throughout the year with the 30-year bond yield ending 2015 roughly 25 basis points higher than at the beginning of 
the year.

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 

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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 
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 the borrower, 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, 2015 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 26.7% and 27.8% of total assets at December 31, 2015, and December 

31, 2014 respectively, of which approximately 90% 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, Peoples' Consolidated Balance Sheet may be 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.

Management performed its quarterly analysis of the investment securities with an unrealized loss at December 31, 

2015, and concluded no individual securities were other-than-temporarily impaired.  Peoples has not recognized an 
impairment loss in 2015, 2014 or 2013.

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

During 2015 and in prior years, Peoples recorded goodwill and other intangible assets as a result of acquisitions 
accounted for under the acquisition method of accounting.  Under the acquisition method, Peoples is required to allocate 
the cost of an acquired company to the assets acquired, including identified intangible assets, and liabilities assumed 

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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 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.

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. 

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, 2015, 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, 2015, Peoples completed the interim test for 
goodwill, and due to potential indicators continued the analysis related to the first step of the goodwill impairment test.  
Peoples utilized the income approach and market approach analysis in determining that the fair value of the reporting unit 
exceeded the carrying amount and that the goodwill of the reporting unit was not considered impaired.  Therefore, 
Peoples did not complete the second step of the goodwill impairment test.  For further information regarding goodwill, 
refer to Note 6 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

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, 2015, 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 

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deferred tax assets involve differences related to Peoples' allowance for loan losses and accrued employee benefits.  At 
December 31, 2015, management determined a valuation allowance would be recorded against the deferred tax assets 
associated with its investment in a partnership investment.  No other valuation allowances were needed at either 
December 31, 2015 or 2014.

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.  
Peoples' 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, 2015 and 2014.

 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-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, 2015, all of Peoples' 
available-for-sale investment securities were measured using observable market data.

At December 31, 2015, 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 quarterly basis and challenges prices when it believes a discrepancy in pricing exists.  Based on Peoples' 
past experience, no discrepancies have been noted related to current pricing and values.

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 

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collateral, less costs incurred during the sale, based upon observable market data or market value data provided by 
independent, licensed or certified appraisers. 

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 
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. 

To determine the fair value of its servicing rights (“SRs”) each reporting quarter, Peoples provides information 
representing loan information accompanied by escrow amounts to a third-party valuation firm. The third-party then 
evaluates the possible impairment of SRs as described below.   Loans are evaluated on a discounted earnings basis to 
determine the present value of future earnings that Peoples expects to realize from the portfolio. Earnings are projected 
from a variety of sources including loan service fees, net interest earned on escrow balances, miscellaneous income and 
costs to service the loans. The present value of future earnings is the estimated fair value, calculated using consensus 
assumptions that a third-party purchaser would utilize in evaluating a potential acquisition of the SRs. 

Events that may significantly affect the estimates used are changes in interest rates and the related impact on 

mortgage loan prepayment speeds, and the payment performance of the underlying loans. Peoples believes this 
methodology provides a reasonable estimate. Mortgage loan prepayment estimates were determined through the 
application of the current dealer projected prepayment rates by product type and interest rate as published by Bloomberg, 
L.P. as of January 4, 2016, and adjusted for historical prepayment factors based on state, type of servicing, year of 
origination, and pass through coupon.  The adjustable rate mortgage loan prepayment estimates were determined through 
the application of market trading assumptions as of January 4, 2016, and adjusted for historical prepayment factors based 
on state, type of servicing, year of origination, and pass through coupon.  

These earnings are used to calculate the approximate cash flow that could be received from the servicing portfolio. 
Valuation results are provided quarterly to Peoples. At that time, Peoples reviews the information and SRs are marked to 
the lower of amortized cost or fair value for the current quarter. 

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Net income for the year ended December 31, 2015 was $10.9 million, compared to $16.7 million in 2014 and $17.6 

million in 2013, representing earnings per diluted common share of $0.61, $1.35 and $1.63, respectively.  The decrease in 
earnings during 2015 was primarily driven by provision for loan losses of $14.1 million coupled with $11.3 million of 
acquisition-related costs.  The decrease in 2014 from 2013 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 2015, Peoples had a provision for loan losses of $14.1 million related primarily to the charge-off of one large 
commercial loan relationship coupled with loan growth and downward trends in criticized loans.  Peoples recorded net 
charge-offs of $15.2 million for 2015, compared to net recoveries of $0.5 million and $3.7 million, respectively, for 2014 and 
2013, respectively. The provision for or recovery of loan losses represented amounts needed, in management's opinion, to 
maintain the appropriate level of the allowance for loan losses.

 Year-over-year income and expense was largely effected by the acquisitions completed in 2014 and 2015.  In 2014, 
Peoples acquired Midwest on May 30, Ohio Heritage on August 22, and North Akron on October 24, and in 2015, Peoples 
acquired NB&T on March 6.  Due to the timing of the acquisitions, 2015 included a full year impact of the 2014 acquisitions 
compared to only a partial impact in 2014.  In 2015, NB&T income and expenses were included beginning on March 6, 2015.  

Net interest income grew 40% to $97.6 million in 2015 compared to $69.5 million in 2014 and $55.4 million in 2013, 
mostly due to higher loan balances in connection with the recent acquisitions, coupled with organic loan growth.  Net interest 
margin was 3.53% in 2015, higher than the 3.45% in 2014 and 3.23% in 2013.  The increase in 2015 was due to accretion 
income from the completed acquisitions, organic loan growth, change in asset mix and a reduction in funding costs.  
Accretion income from acquisitions added approximately 17 basis points to net interest margin in 2015 compared to 13 basis 
points in 2014 and 4 basis points in 2013. The increase in net interest margin in 2014 was mostly due to higher loan balances 
in connection with acquisitions and organic loan growth. 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.

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

transactions, increased 18% in 2015 compared to 2014 and increased 8% comparing 2014 to 2013.  During 2015, electronic 
banking income grew 35%, or $2.3 million, trust and investment income increased 25%, or $1.9 million, service charges on 
deposit accounts grew 18%, or $1.7 million and bank owned life insurance income increased $0.5 million.  The noted 
increases reflected a full year of income from the 2014 acquisitions and approximately nine months of income related to the 
NB&T acquisition. 

Total other expense increased 35%, or $30.1 million, for the year ended December 31, 2015, due largely to a full year of 
expenses related to the 2014 acquisitions and approximately nine months of expenses related to the NB&T acquisition.   The 
NB&T acquisition added 22 additional branches which increased net occupancy and equipment, higher salaries and employee 
benefits, due to additional employees, increased intangible asset amortization and increased electronic banking expense.   
Acquisition-related expenses included in other expenses during 2015 were $10.7 million, compared to $4.8 million in 2014 
and $1.4 million in 2013. 

At December 31, 2015, total assets were up 27%, or $691.2 million to $3.26 billion versus $2.57 billion at year-end 
2014.  The increase was primarily related to the acquisition of $710.5 million in assets during 2015.   Excluding the impact of 
the loans acquired in the NB&T acquisition, loan balances grew 7% or $451.6 million for the year.   The allowance for loan 
losses decreased $1.1 million to $16.8 million, or 1.19% of originated loans, net of deferred fees and costs, compared to 
$17.9 million and 1.48% at December 31, 2014.  Total investment securities grew to $868.8 million, or 26.7% of total assets 
at December 31, 2015, compared to $713.7 million, or 27.8% of total assets at the prior year-end.

Total liabilities were $2.84 billion at December 31, 2015, up $611.5 million since December 31, 2014.  Contributing to 

this increase were acquired deposits of approximately $629.5 million.  Non-interest-bearing deposits comprised 28.7% of 
total retail deposits at December 31, 2015, versus 26.0% at year-end 2014.  At December 31, 2015, total borrowed funds were 
$274.1 million, up $6.7 million compared to the prior year-end, as Peoples assumed $6.6 million from the NB&T acquisition. 

At December 31, 2015, total stockholders' equity was $419.8 million, up $79.7 million from December 31, 2014.  The 
increase in common stock within total stockholders' equity was primarily due to the common shares issued in connection with 
2015 acquisition of NB&T which had a value of $76.0 million.  Peoples' regulatory capital ratios remained significantly 
higher than "well capitalized" minimums.  Peoples' Tier 1 Capital ratio decreased to 13.68% at December 31, 2015, versus 
14.32% at December 31, 2014, while the Total Capital ratio was 14.55% versus 15.48% at December 31, 2014.  In addition, 
Peoples' tangible equity to tangible assets ratio was 8.69% and tangible book value per share was $14.68 at December 31, 
2015, versus 9.39% and $15.57 at December 31, 2014, respectively.  Additional information regarding capital requirements 
can be found in Note 15 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements. 

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.

37

Table of Contents

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

2015

2014

2013

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

Total investment securities

Loans (2)(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

Yield/
Cost
123 0.24 % $
12 0.95 %

15,394 $
1,913

$

50,858 $
1,261

Yield/
Cost
1 0.01 % $
8 0.42 %

Average
Balance

Income/
Expense

Yield/
Cost

16,154 $
743

94 0.59 %
2 0.27 %

727,239
106,518
833,757

18,235 2.51 %
4,603 4.32 %
22,838 2.74 %

630,057
59,759
689,816

17,023 2.70 %
2,785 4.66 %
19,808 2.87 %

646,884
50,487
697,371

17,036 2.63 %
2,462 4.87 %
19,498 2.79 %

64,421
692,773
329,030
554,909
99,984
211,124
1,952,241
(19,174)

44,205
2,730 4.24 %
494,440
31,781 4.59 %
250,248
14,003 4.26 %
345,398
24,554 4.42 %
66,826
4,575 4.58 %
163,691
9,695 4.59 %
87,338 4.47 % 1,364,808
(17,362)

1,933,067
2,818,943
144,013
148,897
$3,111,853

87,338 4.52 % 1,347,446
110,311 3.91 % 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
81,535 3.97 % 1,742,704
72,420
117,243
$1,932,367

$ 388,802 $
276,367

209 0.05 % $ 247,419 $
597 0.22 %

165,622

135 0.05 % $ 200,190 $
470 0.28 %

146,955

178 0.08 %

614 0.16 %
1,352 3.72 %

148,687

293,214
42,598

124 0.08 %

472 0.16 %
1,568 3.68 %

125,984

259,226
51,287

3,256 0.70 %
383,574
6,206 0.35 % 1,281,114

3,337 0.87 %
358,918
6,106 0.48 % 1,142,560

42 0.25 %
140 0.17 %
182 0.18 %
2,256 2.75 %

1,471 3.68 %
606 4.58 %

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

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 %

48,688 4.70 %
68,282 3.90 %

107 0.05 %
642 0.44 %

101 0.08 %

379 0.15 %
1,871 3.65 %

3,952 1.10 %
7,052 0.62 %

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

1,471 3.68 %
882 3.94 %

138,171
4,333 3.20 %
4,515 1.92 %
234,211
10,721 0.53 % 1,515,325

126,100
4,442 3.21 %
4,588 1.96 %
207,394
10,694 0.71 % 1,349,954

4,520 3.57 %
4,634 2.23 %
11,686 0.86 %

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

$2,240,534

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

$1,932,367

222,868

384,258
36,303

465,861
1,774,459

16,863
83,574
100,437
82,184

40,000
13,064

135,248
235,685
2,010,144

663,395  
31,018
2,704,557  
407,296

Total liabilities and stockholders’
equity

$3,111,853

Interest rate spread
Net interest margin

$ 99,590 3.38 %  
3.53%  

$ 70,841 3.26 %  
3.45%  

$ 56,596 3.04 %
3.23%

(1)  Average balances are based on carrying value.

38

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
 
Table of Contents

(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 (2):

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 2014 to 2015
Volume
Rate

Total (1)

Changes from 2013 to 2014
Volume
Rate

Total (1)

$

123 $
8

(1) $
(4)

$

122
4

(88) $
2

(5) $
4

(93)
6

(12)
323

311

239

3,842

3,119

3,962

353

1,515

2,497

2,034

4,531

855

9,099

3,368

9,305

1,400

2,180

1,212

1,818

3,030

922

9,057

2,924

8,503

2,177

2,037

437
(113)

324

(105)
(640)
596
(293)
(138)
(508)

(449)
436

(13)

344

4,482

2,523

4,255

491

2,023

26,207

30,733

25,620

28,776

(1,088)

(850)

14,118

14,104

13,030

13,254

76

259

59

145

(234)

643

948

(3)

(140)

(143)

805

74

127

54

142
(216)
(81)

100

36
(109)

(73)

27

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)

(991)

(1,285)

(216)

(1,501)

67

(42)

(444)

(802)

777

(143)

(587)

(1,957)

(2)

(132)

(5)

(3)

18

(724)

(848)

39

31

70

(778)

Net interest income

$

(1,179) $

29,928 $

28,749

$

609 $

13,636 $

14,245

(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)  Interest income and yields are presented on a fully tax-equivalent basis using a 35% federal statutory tax rate.

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-

39

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Table of Contents

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

$

2015

2014

2013

97,612

69,506

1,978
99,590 $

1,335
70,841 $

55,385

1,211
56,596

During 2015, Peoples recognized accretion income, net of amortization expense, from acquisitions of $4.8 million, 

which added approximately 17 basis points to net interest margin, compared to $2.6 million and 13 basis points, and $0.7 
million and 4 basis points in 2014 and 2013, respectively.  Also during 2015, additional interest income from prepayment fees 
and interest recovered on nonaccrual loans was $591,000 compared to $240,000 in 2014 and $976,000 in 2013.  The primary 
driver of the increase in net interest income during 2015 was the higher loan balances resulting from organic growth and 
acquired loans.

The yield on investment securities decreased in 2015 as interest rates fell and prepayment speeds on mortgage-backed 
securities increased.  The increase in prepayment speeds was due primarily to greater mortgage refinancing activity driven by 
lower interest rates.  This resulted in higher monthly principal cashflows in the investment portfolio.  In 2015, the average 
monthly principal cashflow was approximately $10.1 million compared to $6.0 million in 2014 and $8.0 million in 2013. 

Funding costs have declined since 2013 as Peoples executed a strategy of replacing higher-cost funding with low-cost 

deposits.  In 2015, funding costs decreased 18 basis points, compared to15 basis points in 2014 and 27 basis points in 2013. 
Additional improvement was due to deploying excess cash on the balance sheet by buying securities in the investment 
portfolio and paying off a $12.0 million term loan.  The continued increase in the balance of low-cost deposits has provided 
funding for loan growth during these periods.   

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

Provision (recovery) of other loan losses

Provision for (recovery of) loan losses

As a percent of average total loans

2015

612
13,485
14,097

$

$

$

$

0.72%

2014

$

$

339
—
339
0.02%

2013

356
(4,766)
(4,410)

(0.42)%

The provision for (or recovery of) loan losses represents the amount needed to maintain the appropriate level 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  
2015 was primarily due to the charge-off of one large commercial loan relationship coupled with organic loan growth and 
downward trends in criticized loans.  The provision for loan losses recorded in 2014 was driven by checking account 
overdrafts, while the impact of increases in criticized loans was mitigated by $1.8 million of recoveries on three loans that 
were previously charged off.  The recovery of loan losses recorded during 2013 was 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”.

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Table of Contents

Net Loss on Asset Disposals and Other Transactions

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

(Dollars in thousands)
Net (loss) gain on OREO
Net (loss) gain on debt extinguishment
Net loss on bank premises and equipment
Loss on other assets

$

Net loss on asset disposals and other transactions $

2015

2014

2013

(529) $
(520)
(696)
(43)
(1,788) $

(68) $
67
(430)
—
(431) $

86
—
(241)
—
(155)

The net loss on OREO during 2015 was due mainly to the sale of six OREO properties and the write-down of four 
OREO properties during the period. During the first quarter of 2015, Peoples recognized a loss on debt extinguishment from 
the prepayment of several FHLB advances.  Net losses on bank premises and equipment during 2015, 2014 and 2013 
included $575,000, $380,000 and $248,000, respectively, of asset write-offs associated with acquisition-related activity.  The 
remaining net loss on bank premises and equipment in 2015 was attributable to the write-off of obsolete fixed assets and the 
write-down of closed office locations that were for sale. Peoples recognized a gain on debt extinguishment from a 
restructuring of acquired FHLB advances in 2014.

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 32.7% of Peoples' total revenues in 2015, compared to 36.6% in 2014 and 40.2% in 2013.  The decline 
in Peoples' total non-interest income as a percent of total revenue during 2015 and 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
 Insurance income

$

2015

2014

2013

10,097 $

1,625
1,756
50
255
13,783 $

9,981 $

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

9,873

804
1,227
90
207
12,201

Continued increases in life and health insurance commissions over the past three years were the result of acquisitions and 

increased business.  Performance-based commissions 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. 

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

Deposit account service charges

2015

2014

2013

$

$

8,276 $
2,126
443
10,845 $

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

7,233
1,283
248
8,764

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 

41

Table of Contents

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.  The yearly increases in account maintenance fees 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

Trust and investment income

2015

2014

2013

$

$

6,950 $
2,627
9,577 $

5,567 $
2,118
7,685 $

5,103
2,019
7,122

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

2013

2015

2014
$ 1,275,253 $ 1,022,189 $ 1,000,171
539,384
$ 1,939,406 $ 1,612,278 $ 1,539,555
$ 1,859,336 $ 1,576,656 $ 1,446,291

590,089

664,153

During 2015, the increase in fiduciary and brokerage revenues and managed assets was impacted by the acquisition of 

NB&T.  Additionally, during 2015, 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.  The U.S. financial markets also have 
an impact on managed assets.  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.

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 2015, electronic banking 
income grew $2.3 million, or 35% compared to 2014, due to acquisitions and a continued increase in the volume of debit card 
transactions.  In 2015, Peoples' customers used their debit cards to complete $591 million of transactions, versus $467 million 
in 2014 and $416 million in 2013.

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 increased 6% in 2015 due to acquisitions and additional market areas, while decreasing 30% in 2014 due to 
slowed refinancing activity.  In 2015, Peoples sold approximately $56.0 million of loans to the secondary market compared to 
$48.8 million in 2014 and $73.2 million in 2013.

42

Table of Contents

Non-Interest Expense

Year-over-year expenses were largely effected by the acquisitions completed in 2014 and 2015. 

Salaries and employee benefit costs remain Peoples’ largest non-interest expense, accounting for over half of the 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
Salaries and employee benefit costs

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

2015

2014

2013

$

$

42,140 $
6,340
6,016
1,843
(1,593)
4,470
59,216 $

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

817
799

699
602

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

546
531  

Base salaries and wages, employee benefits, payroll taxes and other employment costs increased in 2015, 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.  Sales-based and incentive compensation decreased in 
2015, due primarily to corporate goals and incentives not being attained.

The increase in employee benefits as a result of acquisitions was partially offset by a decrease in pension settlement 
charges which were $0.5 million, $1.4 million and $0.3 million in 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively.  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 plan participants 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 plan participants retire and elect lump-sum distributions 
from the plan.

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 2015, 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 2015 was $1.8 
million which included $792,000 of expense related to these awards, 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 2015, as required by US GAAP.  
Stock-based compensation expense in 2014 included $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.  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”.

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Table of Contents

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

Net occupancy and equipment expense

2015

2014

2013

$

$

4,639 $
2,908
844
2,816
11,207 $

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

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

During 2015, Peoples acquired 22 new offices which resulted in higher depreciation, repairs and maintenance costs, and 
property taxes, utilities and other costs.  In addition, Peoples completed renovations allowing for expanded service areas and 
efficiencies of operations.  During 2014, Peoples acquired 12 new offices which resulted in higher depreciation, repairs and 
maintenance costs, and property taxes, utilities and other costs.  In addition, Peoples completed the renovation of its branch 
network that began in 2013 and began renovation on newly-acquired branches.  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 29% during 2015.  The increase was primarily due to additional costs in relation to increased 
accounting guidance, yearly audits and executive search fees.  Professional fees incurred as a result of acquisition-related 
activities were $1.7 million in 2015, compared to $2.0 million and $448,000 in 2014 and 2013, respectively.

Peoples' e-banking expense, which is comprised of bankcard, internet and mobile banking costs, increased in 2015, 2014 
and 2013 due to additional accounts related to acquisitions, customers completing a higher volume of transactions using their 
debit cards and Peoples' internet banking service.  These factors also produced a greater increase in the corresponding e-
banking revenues over the same periods.  Additionally, part of the increased e-banking expense in 2014 was due to increased 
debit card compromises at certain large retail companies.

In 2015, marketing expense, which includes advertising, donation and other public relations costs, increased $0.5 million 

due primarily to marketing associated with acquired branches and additional community donations in those markets.  
Marketing expense remained relatively flat in 2014 compared to 2013.  Peoples contributed $350,000 in 2015, $300,000 in 
2014 and $200,000 in 2013 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 2015 due to an increase in equity from the 
issuance of common shares related to acquisitions in 2014 and 2015.  In Ohio, Peoples is subject to Ohio Financial Institution 
Tax ("FIT") which is a business privilege tax that is imposed on financial institutions organized for profit and doing business 
in Ohio.  The FIT is based on the total equity capital in proportion to the taxpayer's gross receipts in Ohio.  

Peoples' intangible asset amortization expense is driven by acquisition-related activity, and increased to $4.1 million in 

2015 compared to $1.4 million in 2014.  The increase in 2015 relates to the completed NB&T acquisition in 2015 and 
recognition of a full year of amortization for acquisitions completed during 2014.

Data processing and software expense includes software support, maintenance and depreciation expense.  These costs 

increased during 2015 and 2014 due to the recent acquisitions and new software projects completed.

Peoples' FDIC insurance costs increased during 2015 and 2014 as a result of recent acquisitions.  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 75.50% for 2015, compared to 75.37% for 2014 and 71.90% for 2013.  The 
increases in 2015 and 2014 were largely a result of one-time costs for acquisitions plus higher salaries and employee benefit 
costs. 

44

Table of Contents

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.

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)

2015

2014

2013

2012

2011

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
Total average assets
Pre-provision net revenue to total average
assets

$

$

14,816
14,097
520
529
—
739
—
—
—
729
—
29,972
3,111,853

$

$

24,178
339
—
95
30
430
—
67
27
428
—
24,550
2,240,534

$

$

29,084
—
—
—
—
241
4,410
—
86
489
—
24,340
1,932,367

$

$

29,910
—
4,144
—
—
248
4,716
—
66
3,548
—
25,972
1,841,289

$

$

17,151
7,998
—
926
—
—
—
—
—
473
10
25,592
1,811,079

0.96%

1.10%

1.26%

1.41%

1.41%

During 2015, PPNR was higher while the pre-provision net revenue to total average assets ratio decreased compared to 

previous years due largely to the increase in net revenue as a result of the completion of the NB&T acquisition and 
recognition of a full year of revenue for acquisitions completed during 2014 being offset by the increase of average assets 
which also was reflective of the NB&T acquisition.

Efficiency Ratio

The efficiency ratio is a key financial measure used to monitor performance.  The efficiency ratio is calculated as total 

other expenses (less intangible amortization) as a percentage of fully tax-equivalent net interest income plus non-interest 
income.  This measure is non-GAAP since it excludes intangible amortization and all gains and/or losses included in 
earnings, and uses fully tax-equivalent net interest income.

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Table of Contents

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)

2015

2014

2013

2012

2011

Efficiency ratio:
Total other expenses
Less: Amortization of other intangible assets
Adjusted total other expenses

Total non-interest income

Net interest income
Add: Fully tax-equivalent adjustment
Net interest income on a fully taxable-equivalent basis

Adjusted revenue

Efficiency ratio

$ 115,081
4,077
111,004

$ 85,009
1,428
83,581

$ 68,265
807
67,458

$ 63,474
509
62,965

$ 61,331
586
60,745

47,441

97,612
1,978
99,590

40,053

69,506
1,335
70,841

37,220

55,385
1,211
56,596

34,971

54,475
1,087
55,562

32,944

53,979
1,133
55,112

$ 147,031

$ 110,894

$ 93,816

$ 90,533

$ 88,056

75.50%

75.37%

71.90%

69.55%

68.98%

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, 2015, excess 
cash reserves at the Federal Reserve Bank were $8.7 million, compared to $12.4 million at December 31, 2014.  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 2015, Peoples' total cash and cash equivalents increased $9.7 million, as cash provided by Peoples' operating activities 

of $47.9 million was partially offset by cash used in financing activities of $37.1 million and investing activities of  $1.1 
million.  Cash provided by investing activities from business combinations of $97.3 million was offset by activities in 
available-for-sale securities of $12.8 million and funded loan growth of $77.9 million.  Within Peoples' financing activities, 
the decrease in interest-bearing deposits was tempered by an increase in non-interest bearing deposits of $99.3 million.  The 
paydown of long-term borrowings of $72.4 million was substantially offset by an increase of $72.1 million in short term 
borrowings. 

In 2014, Peoples' total cash and cash equivalents increased $7.6 million, as cash provided by Peoples' operating activities 

of $31.5 million was mostly offset by cash used by investing activities of $14.2 million and financing activities of $9.7 
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.

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

“Interest Rate Sensitivity and Liquidity.”

46

Table of Contents

Investment Securities

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

(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

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

Held-to-maturity securities, at amortized cost:

Obligations of:

States and political subdivisions

Residential mortgage-backed securities
Commercial mortgage-backed securities

Total amortized cost

Other investment securities, at cost

Total investment securities:

Amortized cost
Carrying value

$

$

$

$
$

2015

2014

2013

2012

2011

$

$
$
$

— $

2,966
114,726
632,293
23,845
4,635
6,236
784,701 $
780,304 $
4,397 $

1 $

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

3,831 $
35,367
6,530
45,728 $

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

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

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

38,401 $

28,311 $

25,196 $

24,625 $

826,032 $
868,830 $

681,435 $
713,659 $

670,348 $
680,526 $

673,859 $
709,085 $

633,429
669,228

32
13,037
35,745
527,003
37,289
12,211
3,254
628,571
617,128
11,443

3,525
12,776
—
16,301

24,356

At December 31, 2015, Peoples' investment securities were approximately 26.7% of total assets compared to 27.8% at 
December 31, 2014, as Peoples continued to focus on reducing the relative size of the investment portfolio.  Peoples acquired 
$156.4 million of investment securities as part of the NB&T acquisition, with the remaining fluctuation due to purchases 
being more than offset by principal paydowns, 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.  Since then, Peoples has maintained the size of the held-to-maturity securities portfolio at approximately the same 
level.  The unrealized gain or loss related to held-to-maturity securities does not directly impact stockholders' equity, in 
contrast to the impact from the available-for-sale securities portfolio.

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.

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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

2015

2014

2013

2012

2011

$

$
$
$

4,201 $
—
4,201 $
4,331 $
(130) $

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  

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, 2015, 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.

48

Table of Contents

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

Total acquired loans (a)
Total loans

Average total loans

2015

2014

2013

2012

2011

$

63,785

$

37,901

$

44,703

$

32,000

$ 30,577

471,184

534,969

288,130

288,783

74,176

227,133

434,660

472,561

249,975

254,169

62,463

169,913

394,532

439,235

206,276

248,883

55,178

133,864

378,073

410,073

180,131

211,404

49,691

99,011

410,352

440,929

140,857

219,619

47,790

87,531

1,448
$1,414,639

2,933
$1,212,014

2,060
$1,085,496

6,563
$ 956,873

1,780
$ 938,506

12,114

265,092

277,206
63,589

276,772

32,253

1,051

121,475

122,526
30,056

225,274

18,232

2,836

55,638

58,474
26,478

19,734

4,898

2,265

—

2,265
—

22,437

1,362

—

—

—
—

—

—

7,981
$ 657,801
$2,072,440
1,952,241

12,796
$ 408,884
$1,620,898
1,364,808

1,154
$ 110,738
$1,196,234
1,046,371

2,235
28,299
$
$ 985,172
967,166

—
—
$
$ 938,506
950,951

(19,174)
Average allowance for loan losses
Average loans, net of average allowance for loan losses $1,933,067
Percent of loans to total loans:
Commercial real estate, construction

3.7 %

Commercial real estate, other

     Commercial real estate

Commercial and industrial

Residential real estate

Home equity lines of credit

Consumer

Deposit account overdrafts

Total percentage

35.5 %
39.2 %

17.0 %

27.3 %

5.1 %

11.3 %

0.1 %
100.0%

(17,362)
$1,347,446

(17,935)
$1,028,436

(21,473)
$ 945,693

(27,259)
$ 923,692

2.4 %

34.2 %
36.6 %

17.3 %

29.6 %

5.0 %

11.3 %

4.0 %

37.6 %

41.6 %

19.5 %

22.5 %

5.0 %

11.3 %

3.5 %

38.4 %

41.9 %

18.3 %

23.7 %

5.2 %

10.3 %

3.3 %

43.7 %

47.0 %

15.0 %

23.4 %

5.1 %

9.3 %

0.2 %
100.0%

0.1 %
100.0%

0.6 %
100.0%

0.2 %
100.0%

Residential real estate loans being serviced for others

$ 390,398

$ 352,779

$ 341,183

$ 330,721

$ 275,715

(a)  Includes all loans acquired, and related loan discount recorded as part of acquisition accounting, in 2012 and thereafter.

During 2015, total originated loans (excluding acquired loans) grew 17%, or $202.6 million, due to increases in all 
categories except deposit account overdrafts.  Consumer loan balances, which consist mostly of loans to finance automobile 
purchases, have continued to increase in recent years due largely to Peoples placing greater emphasis on its consumer lending 
activity.  The increase in total acquired loans in 2015 was due to the NB&T acquisition.  At December 31, 2015, loans 
acquired from NB&T were approximately $333.8 million compared to $384.6 million at acquisition date.

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 

49

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Table of Contents

originated loans increased 13%, while acquired loans grew $84.5 million due to the Ohio Commerce Bank 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.  

During 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.

The following table details the maturities of Peoples' commercial real estate and commercial and industrial loans at 

December 31, 2015:

(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

$

$

$

$

$

$

1,009 $
51,264
52,273 $

3,256 $
11,656
14,912 $

8,100 $
614
8,714 $

26,607 $
313,858
340,465 $

104,474 $
177,488
281,962 $

77,768 $
36,081
113,849 $

4,000 $

235,901
239,901 $

75,141 $
6,014
81,155 $

30,340 $
323
30,663 $

12,365
63,534
75,899

208,849
527,427
736,276

109,481
242,238
351,719

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. 
Peoples' commercial lending activities continue to be spread over a diverse range of businesses from all sectors of the 
economy, with no single industry comprising over 10% of Peoples' total loan portfolio.

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, 2015:

(Dollars in thousands)
Commercial real estate, construction:
Apartment complexes
Mixed commercial use facilities:

Owner occupied
Non-owner occupied

Total mixed commercial use facilities
Assisted living facilities and nursing homes
Residential property
Retail
Land development
Other

Commercial real estate, construction

Outstanding
Balance

Available
Loan
Commitments

Total

Exposure % of Total

$

30,986 $

45,073 $

76,059

50.6 %

1,886
3,217
5,103
8,773 $
6,977
3,434
1,877
18,749
75,899 $

6,492
9,909
16,401

1,142 $
2,834
4,413
1,810
2,640
74,313 $

8,378
13,126
21,504
9,915
9,811
7,847
3,687
21,389
150,212

5.6 %
8.7 %
14.3 %
6.6 %
6.5 %
5.2 %
2.5 %
14.3 %
100.0%

$

$

50

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Table of Contents

(Dollars in thousands)
Commercial real estate, other:
Office buildings and complexes:

Owner occupied
Non-owner occupied

Total office buildings and complexes

Apartment complexes
Mixed commercial use facilities:

Owner occupied
Non-owner occupied

Total mixed commercial use facilities

Retail facilities:

Owner occupied
Non-owner occupied

Total retail facilities

Lodging and lodging related
Assisted living facilities and nursing homes
Light industrial facilities:

Owner occupied
Non-owner occupied

Total light industrial facilities

Warehouse facilities
Residential property:
Owner occupied
Non-owner occupied

Total residential property

Other

Commercial real estate, other

Outstanding
Balance

Available
Loan
Commitments

Total

Exposure % of Total

24,768
44,348
69,116
68,792

30,866
20,869
51,735

21,231
31,489
52,720
48,946 $
43,676

33,364
2,885
36,249
21,412

1,105
13,203
14,308
329,322
736,276 $

$

$

850
277
1,127
52

3,881
534
4,415

2,279
—
2,279
—
284

34
—
34
415

25,618
44,625
70,243
68,844

34,747
21,403
56,150

23,510
31,489
54,999
48,946
43,960

33,398
2,885
36,283
21,827

3.2 %
5.9 %
9.1 %
9.0 %

4.5 %
2.8 %
7.3 %

3.1 %
4.1 %
7.2 %
6.4 %
5.7 %

4.3 %
0.4 %
4.7 %
2.8 %

739
2,627
3,366
11,825
23,797 $

1,844
15,830
17,674
341,147
760,073

0.2 %
2.1 %
2.3 %
45.5 %
100.0%

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, 2015 and December 31, 2014.

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Table of Contents

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

  Originated allowance for loan losses
Purchased credit impaired loan losses

   Acquired allowance for loan losses

Allowance for loan losses

$

As a percent of originated loans, net of
deferred fees and costs

2015

2014

2013

2012

2011

7,076

5,382

12,458

1,257

732

1,971

121

16,539

240
240
16,779

$

$

9,825

4,036

13,861

1,627

694

1,587

112

17,881

—

—
17,881

$

13,215

$

14,215

$

2,174

15,389

881

343

316

136

17,065

—

—
17,065

$

1,733

15,948

801

479

438

145
17,811

—
—
17,811

$

$

18,947

2,434

21,381

1,119

541

449

227
23,717

—
—
23,717

1.19%

1.48%

1.58%

1.86%

2.53%

The allowance for loan losses as a percent of originated loans decreased in 2015 from previous years as a result of the 

continuation of the reduction in historic loss rates over the past five years.  Past years included historic periods dating closer 
to the recession which included larger charge-offs.  Peoples also considers recent trends in criticized loans and loan growth 
associated with each loan portfolio, as well as qualitative factors that could negatively impact these trends, such as 
unemployment, rising interest rates, fragile real estate values, and plummeting oil and gas prices.  Peoples believe the 
reserves remain appropriate to cover probable losses that exist in the current portfolio.  

The reductions in the allowance for loan losses allocated to commercial real estate during 2015 and 2014 were driven by 
net recoveries in recent years reducing the historical loss rates.  Increases in the commercial and industrial, home equity lines 
of credit and consumer categories of the allowance for loan losses were driven by net charge-off activity,  and increases in the 
balances of the respective loan portfolios.  The decrease in the allowance for loan losses allocated to residential real estate 
during 2015 was due to a reduction in net charge-off activity in recent years.

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 2015, Peoples experienced an increase of 
$56.8 million in criticized loans, which are those classified as watch, substandard or doubtful.  Net charge-offs were elevated 
during 2015 as a result of the full charge-off of one large commercial loan relationship. 

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.

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Table of Contents

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

2015
17,881

$

2014
17,065

2013
17,811

$

2012
23,717

$

$

2011
26,766

$

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

Commercial real estate, construction
Commercial real estate, other (a)

Commercial real estate
Commercial and industrial
Residential real estate (b)
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 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

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

—
302
302
13,576
631
125
1,353
774
16,761

—
104
104
98
315
119
755
171
1,562

—
198
198
13,478
316
6
598
603
15,199

14,097
16,779

—
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

$

$

$

$

— %
0.01 %
0.01 %
0.69 %
0.02 %
— %
0.03 %
0.03 %
0.78%

— %
(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)%

—
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

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

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

$

Allowance for loan losses, December 31 $

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

Total
(a) Includes purchased credit impaired charge-off of $60,000 in 2015.
(b) Includes purchased credit impaired charge-off of $3,000 in 2015.
(c) Includes purchased credit impaired provision for loan losses of $303,000 in 2015.

During 2015, Peoples recorded charge-offs related to one large commercial loan relationship in the aggregate amount of 

$13.1 million, or .67% of average total loans.  Peoples also experienced higher net charge-offs in residential real estate and 
consumer loans due to higher balances from recent originated loan growth.

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

$

(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

2015

2014

2013

2012

2011

2,425
1,986
1,522
35
1
5,969

921
7,357
350
2,991
340
31
11,990

—
153
377
864
79
68
1,541
19,500

644
89
733
20,233

$

$

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

$

$

0.94%
0.62%
0.98%
86.05%

0.69%
0.47%
0.75%
159.58%

— $
78
289
873
—
1,240

— $
181
293
1,050
4
1,528

—
7,233
627
1,864
24
12
9,760

—
2,572
—
350
—
—
2,922
14,210

815
21
836
15,046

$

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%

—
—
613
708
—
1,321

—
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%

At December 31, 2015, loans 90+ days past due and accruing included $2.3 million of acquired loans that were 
purchased credit impaired, as they had evidence of credit quality deterioration since origination.  Interest income on those 
loans is 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 increases in nonaccrual commercial real estate loans during 2015 
was a result of commercial real estate relationship in the skilled nursing sector being placed on nonaccrual status.  The 
increase in nonaccrual commercial and industrial loans during 2014 was driven by a single $1.2 million relationship placed 
on nonaccrual.  The significant decreases in nonaccrual status from 2011 to 2012 and 2013 was a result of the addition of a 
special assets group and their efforts in collecting and recovering payments on delinquent commercial loans.  

54

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
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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 $0.4 million for 2015, $0.5 million for 2014 and $0.2 million for 2013.  No portion of 
these amounts was recorded during 2015, 2014 or 2013, 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, 2015, 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)
Non-interest-bearing deposits
Interest-bearing deposits:

Retail certificates of deposit
Savings accounts
Money market deposit accounts
Governmental deposit accounts
Interest-bearing demand accounts
Brokered certificates of deposits
Total interest-bearing deposits

Total deposits

$

2015

2014

2013

2012

2011

$

717,939 $

493,162 $

409,891 $

317,071 $

239,837

448,992
414,375
394,119
276,639
250,023
33,857
1,818,005
2,535,944 $

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

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

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

411,247
138,383
264,873
126,453
106,233
64,054
1,111,243
1,351,080

The increase in governmental deposit accounts was due to fluctuations of balances held by state and local governmental 

entities and their cash flow needs.  Peoples also maintained 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.  These actions accounted for much of the changes in deposit balances.  Some of the increase in deposit balances was 
due to the NB&T acquisition, which included non-interest bearing deposits of $177.2, retail CDs totaling $48.0 million, 
savings accounts of $88.3 million, money market deposit accounts of $64.6 million, governmental deposit accounts of $104.8 
million, and interest-bearing demand accounts of $57.9 million at December 31, 2015.

The increase in total deposits in 2014, included the Midwest, Ohio Heritage and North Akron acquisitions which added 

an aggregate of $5.5 million of non-interest-bearing deposits, $105.0 million of CDs, $53.1 million of savings accounts, 
$165.1 million of money market deposit accounts, $2.1 million of governmental deposit accounts and $1.0 million of 
interest-bearing demand accounts at December 31, 2014.  

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

2015

2014

2013

2012

2011

$

$

18,994 $
9,618
9,086
24,843
62,541 $

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

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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
Short-term borrowings

Long-term borrowings:

FHLB advances
Callable national market repurchase agreements
Term note payable (parent company)
Subordinated debentures held by subsidiary trust

Long-term borrowings
Total borrowed funds

2015

2014

2013

2012

2011

$

$

76,000 $
84,386
160,386

66,934
40,000
—
6,736
113,670
274,056 $

15,000 $
73,277
88,277

71,000 $
42,590
113,590

15,000 $
32,769
47,769

124,714
40,000
14,369
—
179,083
267,360 $

62,679
40,000
19,147
—
121,826
235,416 $

64,904
40,000
23,919
—
128,823
176,592 $

8,500
43,143
51,643

77,312
65,000
—
22,600
164,912
216,555

Peoples' short-term FHLB advances generally consist of overnight borrowings being maintained in connection with the 

management of Peoples' daily liquidity position.  During 2015, Peoples repaid approximately $52.1 million of long-term 
FHLB advances during 2015 and recorded a loss on debt extinguishment of $520,000.  

During 2015, Peoples increased its usage of short-term FHLB advances due to the decrease and pre-payment of long-
term debt.  During 2014, Peoples had reduced its usage of short-term FHLB advances due to acquiring long-term FHLB 
advances from Ohio Heritage.  Peoples' retail repurchase agreements consist of overnight agreements with commercial 
customers and serve as a cash management tool.  Additionally, in 2015, Peoples acquired subordinated debt in the NB&T 
acquisition. 

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, 
2015, Peoples was in compliance with the applicable covenants.

Additional information regarding Peoples' borrowed funds can be found in Note 8 and Note 9 of the Notes to the 

Consolidated Financial Statements.

Capital/Stockholders’ Equity

During 2015, Peoples' total stockholders' equity increased primarily due to $76.0 million of common equity issued in 

connection with the NB&T acquisition.  Regulatory capital ratios continued to fluctuate due to recent acquisitions.  At 
December 31, 2015, 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.  Also during the first quarter of 
2015, Peoples adopted the new Basel III regulatory capital framework, as approved by the federal banking regulators.  The 
adoption of this new framework modified the calculations and well capitalized thresholds of the current capital ratios and 
added the new Common Equity Tier 1 capital ratio.  Additionally, under the new rules, in order to avoid limitations on capital 
distributions, including dividend payments, Peoples must hold a capital conservation buffer above the adequately capitalized 
Common Equity Tier 1 capital ratio.  The capital conservation buffer is being phased in from 0.00% for 2015 to 2.50% by 
2019.

56

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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The following table details Peoples' actual risk-based capital levels and corresponding ratios at December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
Capital Amounts:

2015

2014

2013

2012

2011

Common Equity Tier 1
Tier 1
Total (Tier 1 and Tier 2)
Net risk-weighted assets

$

$

288,416
295,151
313,974
2,157,410

N/A
241,707
261,371
1,687,968

N/A
166,217
184,457
1,338,811

N/A
160,604
176,224
1,141,938

N/A
165,121
180,053
1,111,443

$

$

$

$

Capital Ratios:

Common Equity Tier 1
Tier 1
Total (Tier 1 and Tier 2)
Tier 1 leverage

13.37%
13.68%
14.55%
9.52%

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

14.32%
15.48%
9.92%

12.42%
13.78%
8.52%

14.06%
15.43%
8.83%

14.86%
16.20%
9.45%

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 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 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

$

$

$

$

$

$

2015

2014

2013

2012

2011

419,789
149,617
270,172

$

$

340,118
109,158
230,960

$

$

221,553
77,603
143,950

3,258,970
149,617
3,109,353

$ 2,567,769
109,158
$ 2,458,611

$ 2,059,108
77,603
$ 1,981,505

270,172
18,404,864

$

230,960
14,836,727

$

143,950
10,605,782

$

$

$

$

$

221,728
68,525
153,203

1,918,050
68,525
1,849,525

153,203
10,547,960

$

$

$

$

$

206,657
64,475
142,182

1,794,161
64,475
1,729,686

142,182
10,507,124

14.68

$

15.57

$

13.57

$

14.52

$

13.53

Tangible Equity to Tangible Assets Ratio:
$
Tangible equity
$
Tangible assets

270,172
3,109,353

$
230,960
$ 2,458,611

$
143,950
$ 1,981,505

$
$

153,203
1,849,525

$
$

142,182
1,729,686

Tangible equity to tangible assets

8.69%

9.39%

7.26%

8.28%

8.22%

The decrease in tangible equity to tangible assets ratio at December 31, 2015 compared to December 31, 2014 was due to 

the impact of assets acquired in the NB&T acquisition as well as a reduction in retained earnings as most of the net income 
was paid to common shareholders as dividends.   

In 2014, Peoples' tangible 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 

57

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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the impact of assets acquired in the Ohio Commerce Bank acquisition, which was funded solely by cash consideration, as 
well as reductions in the fair value of the available-for-sale investment securities.

Future Outlook

In 2015, Peoples completed its largest bank acquisition to date, and incurred a large provision for loan losses attributable 
primarily to one large commercial relationship.  The first half of 2015 was a challenge for Peoples as there was minimal loan 
growth and expenses were elevated, due in part to the acquisition costs incurred associated with the NB&T acquisition.  
During the second half of 2015, Peoples showed improvement as loan growth was strong and expenses were managed; 
however, these positives were largely overshadowed by the large provision for loan losses that was taken due to the one large 
commercial relationship.

For 2016, Peoples will build off the momentum that was gained in the second half of 2015 related to loan growth and 

expense management.  Key strategic priorities continue to 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 to take advantage of market expansion opportunities.  Peoples' long-
term strategic goals include generating results in the top quartile of performance relative to Peoples' peer group, as defined in 
the Proxy Statement, and providing returns for its shareholders superior to those of its peers, regardless of operating 
conditions.

Net interest income remains a major source of revenue for Peoples.  Thus, Peoples' ability to grow revenue in 2016 will 
be impacted by the amount of net interest income generated.  The current outlook is mixed as to whether the Federal Reserve 
Board will continue to raise interest rates throughout 2016.  Long-term rates could increase but remain more volatile than in 
prior years.  Changes in long-term interest 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 2016.

Net interest margin for 2016 is expected to remain stable in the low 3.50%'s given the interest rate environment.  Loan 

growth will again be the key driver in stabilizing asset yields.  The net accretion income impact on net interest margin is 
expected to be slightly less than that experienced 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.

Peoples continues to seek to maintain a diversified revenue stream though its strong fee-based businesses, such as 
insurance and wealth management.  In 2015, Peoples' fee revenue comprised 33% of its total revenue, down from 37% in 
2014 and 40% in 2013.  The decline in recent years was due primarily to the four bank acquisitions completed during 2014 
and 2015, only one of which had a wealth management practice, and only two relatively small insurance agencies were 
purchased during the same period of time.  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 2016, 
acquisition activity will be focused primarily on growing fee-based businesses as management continues to strive for a 
diversified revenue stream that consists of 35% to 40% fee-based revenue to total revenue.

While the primary focus will be on revenue growth, management remains disciplined with operating expenses.  In 2015, 

total non-interest expense included $10.7 million of one-time acquisition costs.  For 2016, total non-interest expense will 
increase due to a full year’s impact of the NB&T acquisition.  Normalizing for these items, management expects expense 
growth to be in the low single digits in 2016.  However, Peoples continues to have limited control over some expenses, such 
as employee medical and pension costs.  Peoples continues to be exposed to more 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 2016, management anticipates a comparable volume of settlement charges to that incurred in 2015.  This expectation is 
based on normal retirement activity within the defined benefit plan, but assumes all potential distributions are lump sum 
payouts.

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Table of Contents

Normalizing 2015 for a full year impact of the NB&T acquisition, and excluding the acquisition costs incurred in 2015, 

management expects 4% to 6% growth in total revenue in 2016, and the low-single digit percentage expense growth.  As a 
result, Peoples' efficiency ratio is expected to be below 65% for 2016.

A key to Peoples’ 2016 revenue growth goal is achieving meaningful loan growth.  Management believes period-end 

loan balances could increase by 6% to 8% in 2016.  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.  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 strengthen and will remain a larger 
contributor to overall loan growth, primarily indirect lending.

In 2015, Peoples invested $50 million of excess cash in the investment portfolio, resulting in the investment portfolio 

comprising 27% of total assets as of December 31, 2015.  In 2016, the investment portfolio to anticipated to comprise 
between 25% and 27% of total assets.  Management can use the cash flow generated by Peoples’ significant investment in 
mortgage-backed securities to fund new loan production.  Peoples will continue to seek opportunities to execute a shift in the 
mix on the asset side of the balance sheet to reduce the relative size of the investment portfolio allowing Peoples to fund the 
expected loan growth.  Management may adjust the size or composition of the investment portfolio in response to other 
factors, such as changes in liquidity needs and interest rate conditions.

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 2016 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 2016 as 
the prospects of large charge-offs and recoveries diminish.  Management anticipates Peoples' provision for loan losses and the 
net charge-off rate for 2016 to normalize, with the net charge-off rate near the low end of its long-term historical range of 
0.20% to 0.30% of average loans.  For 2016, management intends to remain prudent with the level of Peoples' allowance for 
loan losses.  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' capital position remains strong.  Given the excess capital position and the anticipated pause in bank acquisitions, 

Peoples will continue to look for ways to effectively manage its capital.  Late in 2015, Peoples approved a share repurchase 
program of up to $20 million. Given the activity in the stock market in early 2016, specifically as it related to the price of 
Peoples' common shares, purchases were executed under the program in January and February, totaling $4.5 million.  Peoples 
will continue to evaluate additional purchase opportunities throughout 2016.

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.

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.

59

Table of Contents

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%

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, 2015
$

300
200
100

1,477
1,943
1,823

1.5% $
1.9%
1.8%

5,600
4,848
3,235

7.3% $ (88,774)
(57,205)
6.3%
(27,036)
4.2%

December 31, 2014

December 31, 2015

(15.3)% $ (66,730)
(41,537)
(9.9)%
(18,026)
(4.7)%

December 31, 2014
(15.7)%
(9.8)%
(4.2)%

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 equals 1%.  While management 

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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 usually 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, 2015, 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 2015, 
Peoples became slightly 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 the NB&T 
acquisition in March and the deployment of excess cash in the balance sheet post-acquisition.

Liquidity

In addition to IRR management, another major objective of the ALCO is to maintain sufficient levels 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 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-
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, 2015, Peoples had a ratio of 1.8 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 

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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, 2015, Peoples had a ratio of 7.4 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 at least on 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.

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 

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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 business, 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, 2015:

(Dollars in thousands)
Time deposits
Long-term debt (1)
Operating leases
Contingent consideration related to acquisitions (2)
Pension benefits

Total

Payments due by period

Total
482,849 $
113,670
2,568
653
500
600,240 $

Less than 1
year
280,094 $
2,945
916
568
500
285,023 $

$

$

1-3 years

3-5 years

More than
5 years

131,483 $
84,720
1,098
85
—

217,386 $

69,910 $
5,327
282
—
—
75,519 $

1,362
20,678
272
—
—
22,312

(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 
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.

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ITEM 9.  CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND 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, 2015.  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 65 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 66 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 the fiscal quarter ended December 31, 2015, that have materially affected, or are 
reasonably likely to materially affect, Peoples’ internal control over financial reporting.

ITEM 9B.  OTHER INFORMATION

None.

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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, 2015, 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, 2015, 
and, based on this assessment, has concluded Peoples' internal control over financial reporting was 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/ JOHN C. ROGERS

John C. Rogers
Executive Vice President,
Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer

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Report of Ernst & Young, LLP, 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, 
2015, 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, 2015, 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, 2015 and 2014, 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, 2015 of Peoples Bancorp Inc. and subsidiaries and our report dated 
February 25, 2016 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon. 

Charleston, West Virginia
February 25, 2016 

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Report of Ernst and Young, LLP, 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, 2015, and 2014, 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, 2015.  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, 2015 and 2014, and the consolidated results of their 
operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2015, 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, 2015, 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 25, 2016 expressed an unqualified opinion 
thereon.

Charleston, West Virginia
February 25, 2016 

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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

$780,304 at December 31, 2015 and $632,967 at December 31, 2014)

Held-to-maturity investment securities, at amortized cost (fair value of $45,853

at December 31, 2015 and $48,442 at December 31, 2014)

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, 2015 and December 31, 2014

Common stock, no par value, 24,000,000 shares authorized, 18,931,200 shares
issued at December 31, 2015 and 15,599,643 shares issued at December 31,
2014, including shares in treasury

Retained earnings
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of deferred income taxes
Treasury stock, at cost, 586,686 shares at December 31, 2015 and 590,246

shares at December 31, 2014
Total stockholders’ equity

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

See Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

68

$

$

$

December 31,

2015

2014

53,663 $
17,452
71,115

42,230
19,224
61,454

784,701

636,880

45,728

48,468

38,401
868,830
2,072,440
(16,779)
2,055,661
1,953
53,487
132,631
16,986
58,307
3,258,970 $

717,939 $

1,818,005
2,535,944
160,386
113,670
29,181
2,839,181

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

—

—

343,948

265,742

90,790
(359)

(14,590)

90,391
(1,301)

(14,714)

419,789
3,258,970 $

340,118
2,567,769

$

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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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

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 expense
Professional fees
Electronic banking expense
Amortization of other intangible assets
Data processing and software expense
Marketing expense
Communication expense
FDIC insurance expense
Franchise tax expense
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

69

2015

2014

2013

$

87,155 $
18,051
2,992
135
108,333

61,541 $
16,840
1,810
9
80,200

48,522
16,853
1,600
96
67,071

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
807
2,012
2,301
1,339
1,036
1,643
654
7,368
68,265
29,084
11,510
17,574
1.65
1.63
10,581,222
10,679,417

6,206
182
4,333
10,721
97,612
14,097
83,515

13,783
10,845
9,577
8,958
1,317
729
(1,788)
2,961
46,382

59,216
11,207
7,295
5,300
4,077
3,671
2,838
2,286
2,084
1,968
1,276
13,863
115,081
14,816
3,875
10,941 $
0.62 $
0.61 $

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
1,428
2,424
2,299
1,642
1,260
1,392
789
9,165
85,009
24,178
7,494
16,684 $
1.36 $
1.35 $

17,555,140
17,687,795

12,183,352
12,306,224

Table of Contents

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 gain (loss) arising during the period
  Related tax (expense) benefit
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

2015

2014

2013

$

10,941 $

16,684 $

17,574

1,232
(431)
729
(255)
327

373
(130)
112
(38)
459
(161)
615
942
11,883 $

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

$

70

$ 168,869 $

80,898 $

(13,244) $

(14,970) $

221,553

Common
Stock

Retained
Earnings

Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive

$ 167,039 $

69,158 $

654 $

Treasury
Stock
(15,123) $

Total
Stockholders'
Equity

Table of Contents

PEOPLES BANCORP INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

(Dollars in thousands)

Balance, December 31, 2012

Net income

Other comprehensive loss, net of tax

Cash dividends declared

Tax benefit from exercise of stock options

79

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

Reissuance of treasury stock for common stock option

exercises

Tax benefit from exercise of stock options

Reissuance of treasury stock for deferred compensation

plan for Boards of Directors

Reissuance of treasury stock for common stock awards

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

Balance, December 31, 2014

Net income

Other comprehensive income, net of tax

Cash dividends declared

17,574

(5,834)

(13,898)

168

(228)

213

423

(34)

1,362

16,684

(7,191)

11,943

72

175

10

(520)

221

298

85

(10)

409

(14)

1,813

6,305

32,017

16,106

40,162

$ 265,742 $

90,391 $

(1,301) $

(14,714) $

10,941

(10,542)

942

Tax benefit from exercise of stock options

51

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

Common shares issued under employee stock purchase

plan

Issuance of common shares related to acquisition of

NB&T Financial Group, Inc.

397

(43)

1,843

(69)

76,027

184

(741)

177

—

504

Balance, December 31, 2015

$ 343,948 $

90,790 $

(359) $

(14,590) $

 See Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

71

221,728

17,574

(13,898)

(5,834)

79

168

(228)

423

179

1,362

16,684

11,943

(7,191)

72

85

175

—

(520)

409

207

2,111

6,305

32,017

16,106

40,162

340,118

10,941

942

(10,542)

51

184

(741)

397

134

1,843

435

76,027

419,789  

Table of Contents

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:

2015

2014

2013

$

10,941 $

16,684 $

17,574

Depreciation, amortization and accretion, net
Provision for (recovery of) loan losses
Bank owned life insurance income
Net gain on investment securities
Loss (gain) on debt extinguishment
Loans originated for sale
Proceeds from sales of loans
Net gains on sales of loans
Deferred income tax (benefit) expense
Decrease in accrued expenses
Decrease in interest receivable
Excess tax benefit from share-based payments
Increase (decrease) in other assets
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 combinations, net of cash received
(Investment in) return of limited partnership and tax credit funds

Net cash used in investing activities

Financing activities:
Net increase in non-interest-bearing deposits
Net decrease in interest-bearing deposits
Net increase (decrease) in short-term borrowings
Proceeds from long-term borrowings
Payments on long-term borrowings
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

72

18,503
14,097
(598)
(729)
520
(53,570)
56,532
(1,005)
(1,582)
(4,412)
704
(51)
4,623
3,909
47,882

13,174
339
(106)
(398)
(67)
(51,458)
49,218
(943)
3,835
(631)
139
(85)
(1,505)
3,299
31,495

16,110
(4,410)
(56)
(489)
—
(68,323)
74,049
(1,544)
4,627
(13)
313
(79)
8,058
(5,353)
40,464

(196,599)
57,415
126,401

(143,184)
108,092
79,830

(223,979)
125,658
99,372

—
2,261
(77,893)
(9,429)
971
—
97,277
(1,514)
(1,110)

99,341
(125,360)
72,109
—
(72,446)
(10,065)
(741)
—
51
(37,111)
9,661
61,454
71,115 $

(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

11,541 $
672 $

10,766 $
6,726 $

11,839
7,473  

$

$
$

Table of Contents

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. Services are provided through 82 financial service locations and 81 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 $5.0 million and $3.5 million in funds at 
December 31, 2015 and 2014, 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 accumulated 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 primarily of shares of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Cincinnati (the 
“FHLB”) and the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland (the "FRB").

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 
does not expect to recover the entire amortized cost basis of the security.  In situations where Peoples intends to sell or 

73

Table of Contents

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 or loss, net of applicable 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 Note 8 and Note 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 $3.3 million and $2.4 million at December 31, 2015 and 2014, 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 on an annual basis 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 million 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.  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 

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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 an 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.

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 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 

mortgage 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) 

75

Table of Contents

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 million or more, and loan relationships with aggregate outstanding debt to Peoples of $5 million or more 
and adversely classified loans are generally reviewed on a quarterly basis.  

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 the borrower's 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 
$3,000 and $45,000 at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

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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 $0.7 million at December 31, 2015 and $0.9 million at 
December 31, 2014.

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. 

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 when 
indicators of impairment exist, or at least annually on June 30.  Based upon the most recently completed goodwill 
impairment test, Peoples concluded the recorded value of goodwill was not impaired as of December 31, 2015, 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.  

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.    

Revenue Recognition:   Peoples recognizes revenues as it is earned based on contractual terms, or as services are 
provided and collectability is reasonably assured. Peoples’ principal source of revenue is interest income, which is 
recognized on an accrual basis primarily according to formulas in written contracts, such as loan agreements or securities 
contracts.

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 is deducted from, and accretion of 
discounts is 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.  

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.

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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 
accumulated 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' valuation allowance and 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 the Financial 
Accounting Standards Board ("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.

In September 2015, the FASB issued an accounting standards update 2015-16 - Business Combinations (Topic 805):  

Simplifying the Accounting for Measurement-Period Adjustments.  The simplification eliminates the requirement for an 
acquirer in a business combination to account for measurement-period adjustments retrospectively.  Instead, acquirers 
must recognize measurement-period adjustments during the period in which they determine the amounts of such 
adjustments, including the effect on earnings of any amounts they would have recorded in previous periods if the 
accounting had been completed at the acquisition date.  For public business entities (such as Peoples), the amendments are 
effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015, including interim periods within those fiscal years.  The 
amendments are to be applied prospectively to adjustments to provisional amounts that occur after the effective date of the 
amendments with earlier application permitted for financial statements that have not been issued.  Peoples elected to early 
adopt as of July 1, 2015, and will recognize measurement-period adjustments during the period in which Peoples 
determines the amounts of such adjustments, including the effect on earnings of any amounts that would have been 
recorded in previous periods if the accounting had been completed at the acquisition date.  

In May 2014, the FASB issued new accounting guidance that revises the criteria for determining when to recognize 

revenue from contracts with customers and expands disclosure requirements.  This accounting guidance can be 

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implemented using either a retrospective method or a cumulative-effect approach. In August 2015, the FASB issued an 
update that defers the effective date of the revenue recognition guidance by one year. This new guidance will be effective 
for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017 (effective January 1, 2018, for Peoples).  
Early adoption is permitted but only for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016.  Peoples 
has elected to implement this new accounting guidance using a cumulative-effect approach.  Management's preliminary 
analysis suggests that the adoption of this new accounting guidance is not expected to have a material effect on Peoples' 
financial condition or results of operations.  There are many aspects of this new accounting guidance that are still being 
interpreted, and the FASB has recently issued and proposed updates to certain aspects of the guidance.  Therefore, the 
results of Peoples' preliminary analysis of the materiality of the adoption of this new accounting guidance may change 
based on the conclusions reached as to the application of the new accounting guidance. 

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)
2015
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
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

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

$

$

$

$

— $

2,966
114,726
632,293
23,845
4,635
6,236
784,701 $

1 $

5,950
64,743
527,291
27,847
5,645
5,403
636,880 $

— $
—
—
—
—
—
6,024
6,024 $

— $
—
—
—
—
—
5,204
5,204 $

— $

2,966
114,726
632,293
23,845
4,635
212
778,677 $

1 $

5,950
64,743
527,291
27,847
5,645
199
631,676 $

—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—

—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—

79

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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Held-to-maturity securities reported at fair value comprised the following at December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
2015
Obligations of:

States and political subdivisions

Residential mortgage-backed securities
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
Total held-to-maturity securities
2014
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

$

$

$

$

4,221 $
35,196
6,436
45,853 $

4,282 $
36,740
7,420
48,442 $

— $
—
—
— $

— $
—
—
— $

4,221 $
35,196
6,436
45,853 $

4,282 $
36,740
7,420
48,442 $

—
—
—
—

—
—
—
—

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 
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, 2015, impaired loans with an aggregate 
outstanding principal balance of $51.8 million were measured and reported at a fair value of $43.7 million.  For the 
year ended December 31, 2015, Peoples recognized losses of $1.6 million on impaired loans through the allowance 
for loan losses.

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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

2015

2014

Carrying
Amount

Fair Value

Carrying
Amount

Fair Value

$

71,115 $
868,830
2,057,614

71,115
868,955
2,018,482

$

61,454 $
713,659
1,607,391

61,454
713,633
1,581,813

$ 2,535,944 $ 2,540,131
160,386
117,299

160,386
113,670

$ 1,933,074 $ 1,938,021
88,277
183,878

88,277
179,083

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.

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Note 3.   Investment Securities 

Available-for-sale

The following table summarizes Peoples’ available-for-sale investment securities at December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
2015
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

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

Amortized
Cost

Gross
Unrealized
Gains

Gross
Unrealized
Losses

Fair Value

$

— $

2,908
111,283
635,504
23,770
5,146
1,693
780,304 $

1 $

5,836
62,292
529,245
28,021
6,132
1,440
632,967 $

$

$

$

— $
58
3,487
4,905
119
—
4,627
13,196 $

— $
114
2,510
5,910
112
3
4,044
12,693 $

— $
—
(44)
(8,116)
(44)
(511)
(84)
(8,799) $

— $
—
(59)
(7,864)
(286)
(490)
(81)
(8,780) $

—
2,966
114,726
632,293
23,845
4,635
6,236
784,701

1
5,950
64,743
527,291
27,847
5,645
5,403
636,880

Peoples’ investment in equity securities was comprised entirely of common stocks issued by various unrelated bank 
holding companies at both December 31, 2015 and 2014.  At December 31, 2015, there were no securities of a single issuer 
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

2015

2014

2013

$

$

795 $
66
729 $

1,136 $
738
398 $

3,358
2,869
489

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. 

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The following table presents a summary of available-for-sale investment securities that had an unrealized loss at 

December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
2015
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 $

7,662 $

38

8

$

213 $

6

1

$

7,875 $

44

Residential mortgage-backed

securities

Commercial mortgage-backed

securities

Bank-issued trust preferred

securities
Equity securities
Total

2014
Obligations of:

303,549

3,902

76

102,090

4,214

6,682

2,129

438

$ 320,460 $

44

19

15
4,018

3

1

2
90

—

2,506

106

$ 104,915 $

—

492

69
4,781

33

—

3

1
38

405,639

8,116

6,682

4,635

544

$ 425,375 $

44

511

84
8,799

States and political subdivisions $

2,602 $

12

4

$

5,788 $

47

8

$

8,390 $

59

Residential mortgage-backed

securities

Commercial mortgage-backed

securities

Bank-issued trust preferred

securities
Equity securities
Total

114,018

1,091

—

—

40

$ 116,660 $

—

—

2
1,105

21

—

—

2
27

216,224

6,773

57

330,242

7,864

19,404

2,509

96

$ 244,021 $

286

490

79
7,675

4

3

1
73

19,404

2,509

136

$ 360,681 $

286

490

81
8,780

Management systematically evaluates available-for-sale investment securities for other-than-temporary declines in fair 

value on a quarterly basis. At December 31, 2015, 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, 2015 and 2014 were attributable to changes in market interest rates and spreads since the securities were 
purchased.  

At December 31, 2015, approximately 97% 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 3%, 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 $0.7 million and $0.5 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, 2015 were primarily attributable to the floating nature of 
those investments, the current interest rate environment and spreads within that sector. 

83

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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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, 2015.  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:

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. 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

— $
240
1
—
—

991
10,649
13,480
—
—

$

— $

32,475
50,013
19,994
—

1,917
67,919
572,010
3,776
5,146

241

$ 25,120

$ 102,482

$ 650,768

— $
247
1
—
—

1,000
10,972
13,269
—
—

$

— $

33,438
50,350
20,033
—

1,966
70,069
568,673
3,812
4,635

$

2,908
111,283
635,504
23,770
5,146
1,693
$ 780,304

$

2,966
114,726
632,293
23,845
4,635
6,236
$ 784,701

248
5.35%

$ 25,241

$ 103,821

$ 649,155

2.97%

2.98%

2.61%

2.68%

Held-to-Maturity

The following table summarizes Peoples’ held-to-maturity investment securities at December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
2015
Obligations of:

States and political subdivisions
Residential mortgage-backed securities
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
Total held-to-maturity securities

2014
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

$

$

$

$

3,831 $
35,367
6,530
45,728 $

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

394 $
363
—
757 $

448 $
189
9
646 $

(4) $

(534)
(94)
(632) $

4,221
35,196
6,436
45,853

(7) $

(394)
(271)
(672) $

4,282
36,740
7,420
48,442

There were no gross gains or gross losses realized by Peoples from sales of held-to-maturity securities for the years 

ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013.

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The following table presents a summary of held-to-maturity investment securities that had an unrealized loss at 

December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
2015

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

2014

Obligations of:

3,706

540

$

4,246 $

States and political subdivisions $

— $

Residential mortgage-backed

securities

Commercial mortgage-backed

securities
Total

—

—

$

— $

—

89

4

93

—

—

—

—

— $

319 $

2

1

3

10,040

5,895

$ 16,254 $

— $

323 $

—

—

18,242

6,356

— $ 24,921 $

4

445

90

539

7

394

271

672

1

2

1

4

1

5

1

7

$

319 $

13,746

6,435

$ 20,500 $

$

323 $

18,242

6,356

$ 24,921 $

4

534

94

632

7

394

271

672

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, 2015.  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

$

$

$

$

— $
—
—
— $

— $
—
—
— $
—%

$

$

$

$

324
—
—
324

319
—
—
319
3.14%

976
487
—
1,463

$

2,531
34,880
6,530
$ 43,941

$

3,831
35,367
6,530
$ 45,728

1,109
483
—
1,592
1.72%

$

2,793
34,713
6,436
$ 43,942

$

4,221
35,196
6,436
$ 45,853

2.60%

2.57%

Other Securities

Peoples' other investment securities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets consist largely of shares of the FHLB and the 

FRB.

Pledged Securities

Peoples had pledged available-for-sale investment securities with a carrying value of $495.5 million and $352.8 million 

at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, and held-to-maturity investment securities with a carrying value of $21.4 
million and $22.9 million at December 31, 2015 and 2014, 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 $11.1 million and $13.5 million at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, and held-to-
maturity securities with carrying values of $23.3 million and $24.5 million at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, to 
secure additional borrowing capacity at the FHLB and the FRB.

85

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Table of Contents

Note 4.   Loans

Peoples' loan portfolio has consisted of various types of loans originated primarily as a result of lending opportunities within 

Peoples' primary market areas of northeastern, central, southwestern 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
Deposit account overdrafts
Total acquired loans
Total loans

$
$

2015

2014

63,785 $
471,184
534,969
288,130
288,783
74,176
227,133
1,448
1,414,639 $

12,114 $
265,092
277,206
63,589
276,772
32,253
7,981
—

657,801 $
2,072,440 $

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

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 "purchased 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

2015

2014

16,893 $
3,040
27,155
193
47,281 $
35,064 $

7,762
1,041
15,183
306
24,292
19,067

$

$
$

86

Table of Contents

Changes in the accretable yield for acquired purchased credit impaired loans the year ended December 31, 2015 were as 

follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
Balance, December 31, 2014
Additions:
    Reclassification from nonaccretable to accretable
    NB&T Financial Group, Inc.
Accretion

Balance, December 31, 2015

$

$

Accretable
Yield

3,172

2,093
3,611
(1,834)
7,042

Cash flows expected to be collected on purchased credit impaired loans are estimated semi-annually by incorporating several 

key assumptions similar to those used in the initial estimate of fair value. These key assumptions include probability of default, 
and the amount of actual prepayments after the acquisition date.  Prepayments affect the estimated life of the loans and could 
change the amount of interest income, and possibly the amount of principal expected to be collected.  In reforecasting future 
estimated cash flows, credit loss expectations are adjusted as necessary.

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 $554.8 million and $457.1 million at 
December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.  Peoples also had pledged commercial loans to secure borrowings with the FRB.  The 
outstanding balances of these loans totaled $195.5 million and $150.7 million at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

Related Party Loans

In the normal course of its business, Peoples Bank has granted loans to certain directors and officers of Peoples Bancorp Inc., 

including their affiliates, families and entities in which they are principal owners.  At December 31, 2015, 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  and new directors elected during the year. 

(Dollars in thousands)
Balance, December 31, 2014

New loans and disbursements

Repayments

Other changes

Balance, December 31, 2015

$

$

15,192

10,361

(6,915)

(538)
18,100

87

 
Table of Contents

Nonaccrual and Past Due Loans

A loan is considered past due if any required principal and interest payments have not been received as of the date such 
payments were required to be made under the terms of the loan agreement.  A loan may be placed on nonaccrual status regardless 
of whether or not such loan is considered past due.  

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

2015

2014

2015

2014

Commercial real estate, construction

$

921 $

— $

— $

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

$

$

$

$

7,041

7,962

480

3,057

321
92
11,912 $

— $

469

469

247

798

98

7
1,619 $

13,531 $

2,575

2,575

1,286

3,049

341
19
7,270

96

9

105

708

304

19

—
1,136

8,406

$

$

$

$

—

—

680

169

—
1
850 $

— $

2,425

2,425

1,306

1,353

35

—
5,119 $

5,969 $

—

—

—

—

818

20
2
840

—

567

567

301

1,083

—

8
1,959

2,799

88

 
Table of Contents

The following table presents the aging of the recorded investment in past due loans and leases at December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
2015
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
Deposit account overdrafts
Total acquired loans
Total loans
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
Deposit account overdrafts
Total acquired loans
Total loans

Loans Past Due

30 - 59 days 60 - 89 days

90 + Days

Total

Current
Loans

Total
Loans

$

$

$

$
$

$

$

$

$
$

913 $

7,260
8,173
1,437
3,124
161
1,387
—
14,282 $

— $

1,592
1,592
177
4,910
318
90
—
7,087 $
21,369 $

— $
565
565
17
4,502
344
1,136
65
6,629 $

— $

1,067
1,067
46
4,026
9
245
—
5,393 $
12,022 $

8 $

379
387
767
1,263
104
32
—
2,553 $

40 $

2,730
2,770
1,553
1,745
95
—
—
6,163 $
8,716 $

— $

1,220
1,220
1,245
1,902
129
2
—
4,498 $

96 $
567
663
815
1,179
—
8
—
2,665 $
7,163 $

— $

1,258
1,258
215
1,105
7
250
—
2,835 $

— $
352
352
232
2,480
20
31
—
3,115 $
5,950 $

— $
285
285
18
1,062
425
157
—
1,947 $

— $
143
143
6
1,331
19
27
—
1,526 $
3,473 $

89

921
8,897
9,818
2,419
5,492
272
1,669
—
19,670

40
4,674
4,714
1,962
9,135
433
121
—
16,365
36,035

$

62,864 $
462,287
525,151
285,711
283,291
73,904
225,464
1,448

63,785
471,184
534,969
288,130
288,783
74,176
227,133
1,448
$ 1,394,969 $ 1,414,639

$

12,074 $
260,418
272,492
61,627
267,637
31,820
7,860
—

12,114
265,092
277,206
63,589
276,772
32,253
7,981
—
657,801
$
$ 2,036,405 $ 2,072,440

641,436 $

— $

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 $

119,698
120,653
29,189
218,738
18,204
12,516
—

1,051
121,475
122,526
30,056
225,274
18,232
12,796
—
$
408,884
$ 1,598,240 $ 1,620,898

399,300 $

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

Table of Contents

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”.

90

Table of Contents

The following table summarizes the risk category of Peoples' loan portfolio based upon the most recent analysis performed at 

December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
2015
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
Deposit account overdrafts
Total acquired loans
Total loans
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
Deposit account overdrafts
Total acquired loans
Total loans

Pass Rated

Watch

Substandard Doubtful

(Grades 1 - 4)

(Grade 5)

(Grade 6)

(Grade 7)

Not
Rated

Total
Loans

913 $

17,595
18,508
5,344
12,282
175
3
—
36,312 $

— $

17,521
17,521
4,238
1,786
—
—
—
23,545 $
59,857 $

— $

17,120
17,120
2,684
11,601
965
8
—
32,378 $

— $

8,260
8,260
2,294
1,540
—
—
—
12,094 $
44,472 $

$

$

$

$
$

$

$

$

62,225 $
434,868
497,093
259,183
21,903
785
208
—

779,172 $

12,114 $
233,630
245,744
56,077
18,027
316
256
—

320,420 $
1,099,592 $

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 $

— $

18,710
18,710
23,601
1,168
—
—
—
43,479 $

— $

13,866
13,866
3,078
1,409
—
—
—
18,353 $
61,832 $

— $

12,316
12,316
8,122
1,195
—
1
—
21,634 $

— $

7,100
7,100
255
833
—
—
—
8,188 $
29,822 $

91

— $
—
—
—
187
—
—
—
187 $

— $
75
75
196
—
—
—
—
271 $
458 $

— $
—
—
1
56
—
—
—
57 $

— $
—
—
194
—
—
—
—
194 $
251 $

647 $
11
658
2
253,243
73,216
226,922
1,448

63,785
471,184
534,969
288,130
288,783
74,176
227,133
1,448
555,489 $ 1,414,639

— $
—
—
—
255,550
31,937
7,725
—

12,114
265,092
277,206
63,589
276,772
32,253
7,981
—
295,212 $
657,801
850,701 $ 2,072,440

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

96 $
—
96
—
209,443
18,134
12,517
—

1,051
121,475
122,526
30,056
225,274
18,232
12,796
—
240,190 $
408,884
693,983 $ 1,620,898

Table of Contents

Impaired Loans

The following tables summarize loans classified as impaired at December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
2015

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

Unpaid
Principal
Balance

Recorded Investment
Without
Allowance Allowance

With

Total
Recorded 
Investment

Related
Allowance

Average
Recorded
Investment

Interest
Income
Recognized

$

$

$

$

$

$

957 $

23,430
24,387 $
5,670
31,304
425
383
62,169 $

9,914 $
8,668
18,582 $
3,747
6,889
500
391
30,109 $

— $

957 $

6,396
6,396 $
1,224
370
—
—
7,990 $

— $
653
653 $

1,945
53
—
—
2,651 $

12,775
13,732 $
4,130
28,834
419
298
47,413 $

9,909
7,742
17,651 $
1,767
6,372
498
386
26,674 $

957 $

19,171
20,128 $
5,354
29,204
419
298
55,403 $

9,909 $
8,395
18,304 $
3,712
6,425
498
386
29,325 $

— $

1,363
1,363 $
351
106
—
—
1,820 $

— $
189
189 $
816
9
—
—
1,014 $

227 $

13,071
13,298 $
4,049
26,785
325
295
44,752 $

4,378 $
4,056
8,434 $
1,414
3,582
298
221
13,949 $

3
815
818
246
1,354
18
28
2,464

540
248
788
73
272
18
24
1,175

At December 31, 2015, Peoples' impaired loans shown in the table above included loans that were classified as troubled debt 

restructurings.

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 (i) the 
borrower is currently in payment default on any of the borrower's debt; (ii) a payment default is probable in the foreseeable future 
without the modification; (iii) the borrower has declared or is in the process of declaring bankruptcy; and (iv) 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 (i) a 
reduction in the interest rate for the remaining life of the debt, (ii) an extension of the maturity date at an interest rate lower than 
the current market rate for new debt with similar risk, (iii) a temporary period of interest-only payments, and (iv) a reduction in 
the contractual payment amount for either a short period or the remaining term of the loan.

92

Table of Contents

The following table summarizes the loans that were modified as a TDR during the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014.

(Dollars in thousands)

December 31,2015

Originated loans:

Commercial real estate, other

Commercial and industrial

Residential real estate

Home equity lines of credit

Consumer
Total
Acquired loans:

Residential real estate

Home equity lines of credit
Total
December 31,2014
Originated loans:

Residential real estate

Home equity lines of credit

Consumer
Total
Acquired loans:

Commercial real estate,
construction

Commercial and industrial

Residential real estate

Recorded Investment (1)

Number
of
Contracts

Pre-
Modification

Post-
Modification

Remaining
Recorded
Investment

5 $

900 $

900 $

4

4

11

12
36 $

4 $

1

5 $

834

207

402

834

207

402

95
2,438 $

95
2,438 $

246 $

8

254 $

246 $

8

254 $

22 $

996 $

997 $

12

10

238

108

238

108

44 $

1,342 $

1,343 $

1 $

3

4

96 $

96 $

605

235

605

235

881

834

115

389

94
2,313

246

7

253

967

232

102

1,301

96

594

234

Consumer
Total
13 $
(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.

945 $

945 $

5

9

9

6

930

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, 2015 and 2014:

Number
of
Contracts

2015
Recorded 
Investment 
(1)

Impact on the
Allowance for
Loan Losses

Number
of
Contracts

Recorded 
Investment 
(1)

Impact on the
Allowance for
Loan Losses

2014

1 $

—

1 $

151 $

—
151 $

—

—
—

1 $

2
3 $

33 $

28
61 $

(Dollars in thousands)

Originated loans:

Residential real estate

Home equity lines of credit
Total

Acquired loans:

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 $

—
—

93

—

—
—

—
—

Table of Contents

Peoples had no commitments to lend additional funds to the related borrowers whose loan terms have been modified in a 

TDR. 

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, 2015

Charge-offs

Recoveries

Net (charge-offs) recoveries

(Recovery of) provision for loan losses

Balance, December 31, 2015

Period-end amount allocated to:

Loans individually evaluated for

impairment

Loans collectively evaluated for

impairment

Balance, December 31, 2015

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

Commercial
Real Estate

Commercial
and
Industrial

Residential
Real Estate

Home
Equity
Lines of
Credit Consumer

Deposit
Account
Overdrafts

Total

$

9,825 $

4,036 $

1,627 $

694 $

1,587 $

112 $ 17,881

(242)

104

(138)

(2,611)

(13,576)

98

(13,478)

14,824

(628)

315

(313)

(57)

(125)

119

(6)

44

(1,353)

(774)

(16,698)

755

(598)

982

171

1,562

(603)

(15,136)

612

13,794

7,076 $

5,382 $

1,257 $

732 $

1,971 $

121 $ 16,539

1,363 $

351 $

106 $

— $

— $

— $ 1,820

5,713

7,076 $

5,031

1,151

732

1,971

121

14,719

5,382 $

1,257 $

732 $

1,971 $

121 $ 16,539

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 $

3,220

1,618

694

1,587

112

16,867

4,036 $

1,627 $

694 $

1,587 $

112 $ 17,881

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

The reduction in the allowance for originated loan losses allocated to commercial real estate was driven by decreased 
historical loss rates.  Historical loss rates are calculated using charge-offs and recoveries within each portfolio over the past five 
years.  The increase in provision for originated commercial and industrial loans during 2015 was primarily related to a specific 
allowance for one relationship which was charged off in 2015.  The reduction in the allowance for originated residential real 
estate was driven by net recoveries in recent years reducing the historical loss rates.  The changes in the home equity lines of 
credit and consumer categories of the allowance for originated loan losses and the related provision for originated loan losses 
recorded during 2015 were driven by net charge-off activity and increases in the size of the respective loan portfolios. 

Allowance for Acquired Loan Losses

Acquired loans are recorded at their fair value as of the acquisition date with no valuation allowance, and monitored for 
changes in credit quality and subsequent increases or decreases in expected cash flows.  Decreases in expected cash flows of 
acquired credit impaired loans are recognized as an impairment, with the amount of the expected loss included in management's 
evaluation of the appropriateness of the allowance for loan losses.  Management reforecasts the estimated cash flows expected to 
be collected on acquired purchased credit impaired impaired loans semi-annually.  The methods utilized to estimate the required 
allowance for loan losses for nonimpaired acquired loans are similar to those utilized for originated loans; however, Peoples 
records a provision for loan losses only when the computed allowance exceeds the remaining fair value adjustment.

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The following table presents activity in the allowance for loan losses for acquired loans as of December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
Purchased credit impaired loans:

Balance, January 1

Charge-offs

Recoveries

Net recoveries (charge-offs)

Provision for loan losses
Balance, December 31

$

$

2015

2014

2013

— $

(63)

—

(63)

303

240 $

— $

—

—

—

—

— $

—

—

—

—

—

—

As of December 31, 2015, the expected cash flows for acquired credit impaired loans had decreased from those as of the 

respective acquisition dates, resulting in Peoples recording a provision for loan losses with respect to those acquired loans.  
During 2014 and 2013, the discount recorded on acquired loans was in excess of the calculated allowance for loan losses for the 
acquired portfolios.

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

2015

2014

$

11,976

$

58,607

25,487

96,070
(42,583)
53,487

$

$

7,612

48,402

22,323

78,337
(38,002)
40,335

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 $4.6 million, $3.0 million and $2.6 
million, in 2015, 2014 and 2013, 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 on the leased properties and equipment was $988,000, $951,000, and 
$950,000 in 2015, 2014 and 2013, 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 and $151,000 in 
2014 and 2013, 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.

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Table of Contents

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, 2015: 

(Dollars in thousands)

Payments

$

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

Thereafter

Total future operating lease payments

$

916

612

486

224

58

272
2,568

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

2015

2014

$

$

98,562 $

34,069
132,631 $

70,520

28,042
98,562

Peoples performed the required goodwill impairment tests and concluded there was no impairment in the recorded value 

of goodwill in 2015, based upon the estimated fair value of the single reporting unit.  At December 31, 2015, Peoples 
completed the first step of the goodwill impairment test due to potential indicators impairment.  Peoples utilized the Income 
Approach and Market Approach analysis in determining that the fair value of the reporting unit exceeded the carrying amount 
and that the goodwill of the reporting unit was not considered impaired. 

Other intangible assets

Other intangible assets were comprised of the following at December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)

Core Deposits

Customer
Relationships

Total

2015

Gross intangibles

Acquired intangibles
Accumulated amortization
Total acquired intangibles

Servicing rights

Total other intangibles

2014
Gross intangibles
Acquired intangibles
Accumulated amortization
Total acquired intangibles

Servicing rights

Total other intangibles

7,013

$

8,858

$

8,623
(4,396)
11,240

2,226
4,787
(1,156)
5,857

$

$

$

1,695
(7,194)
3,359

8,646
212
(6,357)
2,501

$

$

$

$

$

15,871

10,318
(11,590)
14,599
2,387
16,986

10,872
4,999
(7,513)
8,358
2,238
10,596

$

$

$

$

96

  
 
 
 
 
Table of Contents

The following table details estimated aggregate future amortization expense of core deposit and customer relationship 

intangible assets at December 31, 2015:

(Dollars in thousands)
2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

Thereafter
Total

Core
Deposits

Customer
Relationships

Total

$

3,114

$

2,608

2,098

1,586

1,071

$

833

722

606

482

352

763
11,240

$

$

364
3,359

$

3,947

3,330

2,704

2,068

1,423

1,127
14,599

For further information regarding Peoples' acquisitions, 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

2015

2014

2013

$

$

2,238
(662)
566
245
2,387

$

$

2,295
(597)
497
43
2,238

$

$

2,073
(652)
675
199
2,295  

No valuation allowances were required at December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 for Peoples’ servicing rights since the fair 

value equaled or exceeded the book value.

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

Retail certificates of deposit

Savings accounts

Money market deposit accounts

Governmental deposit accounts

Interest-bearing transaction accounts

Brokered certificates of deposits

Total interest-bearing deposits

Non-interest-bearing deposits

Total deposits

2015

2014

$

62,541 $

59,031

386,451

448,992

414,375

394,119

276,639

250,023

33,857

373,532

432,563

295,307

337,387

161,305

173,659

39,691

1,818,005

1,439,912

717,939

493,162

$ 2,535,944 $ 1,933,074  

97

 
 
 
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The contractual maturities of certificates of deposits for each of the next five years and thereafter are as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
2016

Retail

Brokered

Total

$

261,907 $

18,187 $

280,094

2017

2018

2019

2020

84,230

46,106

28,614

26,773

—

1,147

14,523

—

84,230

47,253

43,137

26,773

Thereafter

Total deposits

$

1,362
448,992 $

—
33,857 $

1,362
482,849  

Deposits from related parties approximated $43.0 million and $34.0 million at December 31, 2015 and 2014, 

respectively.

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)
2015
Ending balance
Average balance
Highest month-end balance
Interest expense
Weighted-average interest rate:

End of year
During the year

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

Retail
Repurchase
Agreements

FHLB
Advances

Other
Short-Term
Borrowings

$

$

$

$

$

$

84,386
83,574
92,711
140

0.17%
0.17%

73,277
59,324
76,459
99

0.17%
0.17%

42,590
37,077
46,850
58

$

$

$

76,000
16,863
76,000
42

0.35%
0.25%

15,000
36,678
108,000
47

0.14%
0.13%

71,000
44,127
92,500
55

—
—
—
—

—%
—%

—
38
—
—

—%
0.75%

—
90
—
1

0.16%
0.16%

0.14%
0.12%

—%
0.74%

Peoples’ retail repurchase agreements consist of overnight agreements with Peoples’ commercial customers and serve as 

a cash management tool.

98

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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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 had available federal funds of $25 million from certain of its correspondent banks at December, 
31,2015 with $20 million set to expire in early 2016.  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.  On 

August 4, 2014, the revolving credit loan amount was increased to $10 million and on December 17, 2015, the revolving 
credit loan amount increased to $15 million, with a maturity date of December 15, 2016.  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, 2015 and 2014, this revolving credit loan had no 
outstanding principal balance.

Note 9.   Long-Term Borrowings

Long-term borrowings consisted of the following at December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)

FHLB putable non-amortizing, fixed-rate advances

$

FHLB amortizing, fixed-rate advances
Callable national market repurchase agreements

Junior subordinated debt securities
Term note payable (parent company)

Long-term borrowings

$

2015

2014

Weighted-
Average
Rate

Weighted-
Average
Rate

Balance

Balance

50,000

16,934

40,000

6,736
—
113,670

3.32 % $

2.69 %

3.63 %

1.83 %
— %
3.25% $

83,995

40,719

40,000

—
14,369
179,083

3.30 %

2.13 %

3.63 %

— %
3.50 %
3.12%

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 2015, Peoples repaid several FHLB 
advances including putable, non-amortizing, fixed-rate advances and amortizing, fixed-rate advances, totaling approximately 
$52.1 million that resulted in early termination fees of $520,000, and had a weighted-average cost of 1.49%.

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. 

Peoples' callable 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 option, Peoples would be required to repay the agreement in whole at the quarterly date.  Peoples is 
required to make quarterly interest payments.

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On March 6, 2015, Peoples completed its acquisition of NB&T Financial Group, Inc. ("NB&T"), which included the 
assumption of Fixed/Floating Rate Junior Subordinated Debt Securities due 2037 (the "junior subordinated debt securities") 
at an acquisition-date fair value of $6.6 million held in a wholly-owned statutory trust whose common securities were 
wholly-owned by NB&T.  The sole assets of the statutory trust are the junior subordinated debt securities and related 
payments.  The junior subordinated debt securities and the back-up obligations, in the aggregate, constitute a full and 
unconditional guarantee of the obligations of the statutory trust under the Capital Securities held by third-party investors.  
Distributions on the Capital Securities are payable at the annual rate of 1.50% over the 3-month LIBOR.  Distributions on the 
Capital Securities are included in interest expense in the Consolidated Financial Statements.  These securities are considered 
Tier I capital (with certain limitations applicable) under current regulatory guidelines.  The junior subordinated debt securities 
are subject to mandatory redemption, in whole or in part, upon repayment of the Capital Securities at maturity or their earlier 
redemption at the liquidation amount.  Subject to prior approval of the Federal Reserve, the Capital Securities are redeemable 
prior to the maturity date of September 6, 2037, and are redeemable at par.  Since September 6, 2012, the Capital Securities 
have been redeemable at par, subject to such approval.  Distributions on the Capital Securities can be deferred from time to 
time for a period not to exceed 20 consecutive semi-annual periods. 

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 was required to make quarterly principal and 
interest payments until the earlier of either full prepayment by Peoples or the stated maturity date.  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.

This note was prepaid on July 24, 2015 without penalties.  As of December 31, 2015, Peoples was in compliance with 

the applicable covenants imposed by the Amended Loan Agreement.

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Table of Contents

At December 31, 2015, the aggregate minimum annual retirements of long-term borrowings in future periods were as 

follows:

(Dollars in thousands)

Balance

Weighted-
Average Rate

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

Thereafter

Long-term borrowings

$

$

2,945

2,330

82,390

1,426

3,901

20,678
113,670

2.38 %

2.45 %

3.47 %

2.60 %

3.36 %

2.59 %
3.25%

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Table of Contents

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, 2012
Changes related to stock-based compensation awards:

Grant of restricted common shares
Release of restricted common shares
Cancellation 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:

Grant of restricted common shares
Release of restricted common shares
Cancellation of restricted common shares
Exercise of stock options for common shares
Reissuance of treasury stock for common stock awards
Grant of 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
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
Changes related to stock-based compensation awards:

Grant of restricted common shares
Release of restricted common shares
Cancellation of restricted common shares
Grant of 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
Common shares issued under employee stock purchase plan
Issuance of common shares related to acquisition of NB&T Financial Group, Inc.
Shares at December 31, 2015

Common
Stock
11,252,244

Treasury
Stock

607,688

83,206
—
(3,096)

—
—
19,682
—
11,352,036

101,926
—
(6,062)
—
—
100

—
—
17,230
—

256,282
1,364,735
665,570
1,847,826
15,599,643

131,011
—
(28,219)
2,810

—
—
18,257
—
—
3,207,698
18,931,200

—
6,862
—

3,652
(9,147)
—
(8,261)
600,794

—
18,031
—
(2,792)
(12,030)
—

4,236
(9,390)
—
(8,603)

—
—
—
—
590,246

—
25,205
—
(100)

7,654
(9,642)
—
(10,231)
(16,446)
—
586,686

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On November 3, 2015, Peoples announced that its Board of Directors approved and adopted a share repurchase program 
authorizing Peoples to purchase, from time to time, up to an aggregate of $20 million of its outstanding common shares.  No 
common shares were purchased in 2015.  As of February 24, 2016, Peoples repurchased 253,870 common shares at a cost of 
$4.5 million under the program.

On March 6, 2015, Peoples completed its acquisition of NB&T, and issued 3,207,698 common shares reflecting $76.0 
million of consideration, with the remainder paid in cash.  Additional information regarding the NB&T acquisition can be 
found in Note 17.

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 used the proceeds, in part, to fund the cash consideration for the 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 Peoples' Board of Directors.  At December 31, 2015, Peoples had no preferred shares issued or outstanding.

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, 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
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, net of reclassifications and tax
Balance, December 31, 2015

Note 11.   Employee Benefit Plans 

Unrealized
Gain (Loss) on
Securities

Unrecognized
Net Pension and
Postretirement
Costs

Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)

$

$

$

$

6,892 $

(6,238) $

654

(318)
—
(16,335)
(9,761) $

(259)
—
12,562
2,542 $

(474)
—
801
2,869 $

—
175
2,580
(3,483) $

—
910
(1,270)
(3,843) $

—
298
317
(3,228) $

(318)
175
(13,755)
(13,244)

(259)
910
11,292
(1,301)

(474)
298
1,118
(359)

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.

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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.  As of January 1, 2011, all retirees 
who desire to participate in the Peoples Bank medical plan do so by electing COBRA, which provides up to 18 months of 
coverage; retirees over the age of 65 also have the option to participate in a group Medicare supplemental plan.  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.

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, 2015, and a statement of the funded status as of December 31, 2015 and 2014:

(Dollars in thousands)

Change in benefit obligation:

Obligation at January 1

Interest cost

Plan participants’ contributions

Actuarial (gain) loss

Benefit payments

Settlements

Obligation at December 31

Pension Benefits

Postretirement Benefits

2015

2014

2015

2014

$ 13,695

$ 14,723

$

152

$

447

—
(948)
(148)
(1,081)
$ 11,965

509

—

2,060
(163)
(3,434)
$ 13,695

Accumulated benefit obligation at December 31

$ 11,965

$ 13,695

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:

$

8,259
(91)
185

$ 11,287

569

—

—
(148)
(1,081)
7,124

—
(163)
(3,434)
$
8,259
$ (4,841) $ (5,436)

$

Accrued benefit liability

Net amount recognized

(4,841)

(5,436)
$ (4,841) $ (5,436)

Amounts recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss:

Unrecognized prior service cost

Unrecognized net loss

Total

Weighted-average assumptions at year-end:

$

$

— $

— $

3,275

3,275

$

3,886

3,886

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

4

65
(10)
(85)
—

126

$

— $

— $

—

20

65
(85)
—

— $
(126) $

(126)
(126) $

(2) $
(47)
(49) $

143

6

46

26
(69)
—

152

—

—

—

23

46
(69)
—

—
(152)

(152)
(152)

(2)
(43)
(45)

Discount rate

3.90%

3.50%

3.90%

3.50%

The estimated costs relating to Peoples’ pension benefits that will be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive 

loss into net periodic cost over the next fiscal year are $99,000 of net loss.

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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)
Interest cost
Expected return on plan assets
Amortization of net loss (gain)
Settlement of benefit obligation
Net periodic benefit cost

Weighted-average assumptions:
Discount rate
Expected return on plan assets
Rate of compensation increase

$

$

$

$

Pension Benefits
2014
509
(589)
137
1,400
$ 1,457

$

2015
447
(493)
117
459
530

2013

543
(659)
189
270
343

$

Postretirement Benefits
2013
5
—
(7)
—
(2)

2014
6
—
(8)
—
(2) $

2015
4
$
—
(5)
—
(1) $

$

$

3.80%
7.50%
n/a

3.70%
7.50%
n/a

3.75% 3.50%
n/a
7.50%
n/a
n/a

4.30%
n/a
n/a

3.30%
n/a
n/a

For measurement purposes, a 6.5% annual rate of increase in the per capita cost of covered benefits (i.e., health care cost 

trend rate) was assumed for 2015, 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 2015, 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 2015 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 pension plan's total assets is based on the expected return of each category 

of the pension plan's assets.  Peoples' investment strategy for the pension 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 of the pension 
plan based upon established target allocations, which include a target range of 60-75% allocation in equity securities, 20-43% 
in debt securities and 0-15% 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.  

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Table of Contents

The following table provides the fair values of investments held in Peoples' pension plan at December 31, by major asset 

category:

(Dollars in thousands)
2015

Equity securities:

Mutual funds - equity

Debt securities:

Mutual funds - taxable income
Total fair value of pension assets

2014

Equity securities:

Mutual funds - equity

Debt securities:

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

4,908

$

4,908

$

1,863
6,771

$

1,863
6,771

$

5,756

$

5,756

$

2,128
7,884

$

2,128
7,884

$

—

—
—

—

—
—

Pension plan assets also included cash and cash equivalents of $352,000 and accrued income of $1,000 at December 31, 

2015.  Cash and cash equivalents were $373,000 and accrued income was $2,000 at December 31, 2014.  For further 
information regarding levels of input used to measure fair value, refer to Note 2.

Equity securities of Peoples' pension plan did not include any securities of Peoples or related parties in 2015 or 2014.

Cash Flows

Peoples expects to make between $475,000 to $500,000 of contributions to its pension plan in 2016; 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

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021 to 2025
Total

$

$

1,090

$

801

853

842

959

3,720
8,265

$

21

13

12

12

12

48
118

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.  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 between 3% and 5% of the participants' compensation.  Matching contributions made by 
Peoples totaled $1,454,000, $1,048,000 and $924,000 in 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

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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

$

5,051

34.1 % $

8,462

35.0 % $ 10,179

35.0 %

2015

2014

2013

Differences in rate resulting from:

Tax-exempt interest income

Investments in tax credit funds

Bank owned life insurance

Other, net

Income tax expense

(1,109)

(7.5)%

(123)

(204)

(0.8)%

(1.4)%

260
3,875

$

1.8 %
26.2 % $

(3.0)%

(726)
(481)
(2.0)%
(37) — %
107
1.0 %
276
31.0 % $ 11,510
7,494

(645)
(314)
2,183

(2.2)%

(1.1)%

7.5 %

0.4 %
39.6 %

Peoples' reported income tax expense consisted of the following for the years ended December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
Current income tax expense
Deferred income tax (benefit) expense

Income tax expense

2015

2014

2013

$

$

5,457
(1,582)
3,875

$

$

3,659
3,835
7,494

$

$

6,883
4,627
11,510

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
Bank premises and equipment
Available-for-sale securities
Investments
Accrued employee benefits
Other

Gross deferred tax assets

Valuation allowance

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

2015

2014

12,144
1,060
—
1,842
2,748
3,803
21,597
605
20,992

11,342
1,544
—
2,260
664
15,810
5,182

$

$

$

$
$

10,493
—
—
1,956
2,662
1,146
16,257
—
16,257

6,316
1,368
2,470
1,924
684
12,762
3,495

$

$

$

$
$

The tax loss carryforward, related to the NB&T acquisition at December 31, 2015 will be recognized in accordance with 

26 U.S. Code §382 limitation of net operating loss carry forward guidance.  As of December 31, 2015, the Company had a 
net operating loss carryforward of approximately $5.8 million for tax purposes, which will be available to offset future 
taxable income.  If not used, this carryforward will expire in 2035.

 A $0.6 million valuation allowance related to a partnership investment was recorded for deferred tax assets at 
December 31, 2015, as it is more likely than not that the $1.7 million of gross deferred tax assets may not be realized in 

107

 
 
 
 
 
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future periods.  The related federal income tax expense on securities transactions approximated $255,000 in 2015, $139,000 
in 2014 and $171,000 in 2013.

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 
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 for tax positions taken during prior years
Gross decrease due to the statute of limitations

Uncertain tax positions, end of year

2015

2014

$

$

240 $
182
—
(2)
(3)
417 $

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 ended 
December 31, 2012 through 2014.   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)

2015

2014

2013

Distributed earnings allocated to common shareholders

Undistributed earnings allocated to common shareholders

Net earnings allocated to common shareholders

$

$

10,426 $

7,095 $

404

9,472

10,830 $

16,567 $

5,749

11,685

17,434

Weighted-average common shares outstanding

17,555,140

12,183,352

10,581,222

Effect of potentially dilutive common shares

132,655

122,872

98,195

Total weighted-average diluted common shares outstanding 17,687,795

12,306,224

10,679,417

Earnings per common share:

Basic

Diluted

$

$

0.62 $

0.61 $

1.36 $

1.35 $

1.65

1.63

Anti-dilutive common shares excluded from calculation:

Stock options and stock appreciation rights

46,109

55,184

91,902

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Table of Contents

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.  

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

2015

2014

84,148 $
77,479
233,689
395,316
22,970 $

62,704
46,781
173,746
283,231
30,837

$

$

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 $72.2 million and fair value of $3.1 million at December 31, 2015, 
and a notional value of $44.0 million and fair value of $2.1 million at December 31, 2014.  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 
$16.3 million and $12.2 million in 2015 and 2014, 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, 2015, Peoples Bank had approximately $2.6 million of net profits available for 
distribution to Peoples as dividends without regulatory approval. 

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Table of Contents

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, 2015, required 

Peoples and Peoples Bank to maintain minimum amounts and ratios of Common Equity Tier 1 capital, Tier 1 capital and 
Total 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, 2015.

As of December 31, 2015, 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 Common Equity Tier 1, Tier 1 risk-based, Total 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.

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Table of Contents

Peoples and Peoples Bank's actual capital amounts and ratios as of December 31 are also presented in the following 

table:

(Dollars in thousands)
PEOPLES
Common Equity Tier 1 (1)
Actual
For capital adequacy
To be well capitalized
Tier 1 (2)
Actual
For capital adequacy
To be well capitalized
Total Capital (3)
Actual
For capital adequacy
To be well capitalized
Tier 1 Leverage (4)
Actual
For capital adequacy
To be well capitalized
Net Risk-Weighted Assets

2015

2014

Amount

Ratio

Amount

Ratio

288,416
97,083
140,232

295,151
129,445
172,593

313,974
172,593
215,741

$

$

$

295,151
123,973
154,967
$ 2,157,410

13.4%
4.5%
6.5%

N/A
N/A
N/A

N/A
N/A
N/A

13.7% $
6.0%
8.0%

14.6% $
8.0%
10.0%

241,707
67,519
101,278

261,371
135,037
168,797

9.5% $
4.0%
5.0%

241,707
97,470
121,837
$ 1,687,968

$

257,045
96,916
139,989

277,045
129,221
172,295

PEOPLES BANK
Common Equity Tier 1 (1)
Actual
For capital adequacy
To be well capitalized
Tier 1 (2)
Actual
For capital adequacy
To be well capitalized
Total Capital (3)
Actual
For capital adequacy
To be well capitalized
Tier 1 Leverage (4)
Actual
For capital adequacy
To be well capitalized
Net Risk-Weighted Assets
(1)  Ratio represents Common Equity Tier 1 capital to net risk-weighted assets
(2)  Ratio represents Tier 1 capital to net risk-weighted assets
(3)  Ratio represents total capital to net risk-weighted assets
(4)  Ratio represents Tier 1 capital to average assets

277,045
123,742
154,677
$ 2,153,682

293,823
172,295
215,368

$

$

11.9%
4.5%
6.5%

12.9% $
6.0%
8.0%

13.6% $
8.0%
10.0%

N/A
N/A
N/A

205,710
67,464
101,196

223,591
134,928
168,660

9.0% $
4.0%
5.0%

205,710
97,333
121,666
$ 1,686,603

111

14.3%
4.0%
6.0%

15.5%
8.0%
10.0%

9.9%
4.0%
5.0%

N/A
N/A
N/A

12.9%
4.0%
6.0%

13.3%
8.0%
10.0%

8.5%
4.0%
5.0%

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Table of Contents

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.  In 
2007 and 2008, Peoples granted stock appreciation rights (“SARs”) to be settled in common shares.  Since February 2007, 
Peoples has granted restricted common shares to employees and 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.

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, 2015:

Number of
Common
Shares
Subject to
Options

Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price

Weighted-
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Life

Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value

Outstanding at January 1
Expired

Outstanding at December 31
Exercisable at December 31

38,577
18,267
20,310
20,310

$

$
$

28.09
27.27
28.83
28.83

0.3 years
0.3 years

$
$

—
—

  The following table summarizes Peoples’ stock options outstanding at December 31, 2015:

Options Outstanding & Exercisable
Weighted-
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Life
0.1 years
0.4 years
0.3 years $

Common
Shares Subject
to Options
Outstanding
10,310
10,000
20,310

Weighted-
Average
Exercise Price
28.25
29.43
28.83

Range of Exercise Prices
$28.25
to

$30.00

$28.57
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.  

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The following summarizes the changes to Peoples' outstanding SARs for the year ended December 31, 2015:

Number of
Common
Shares
Subject to
SARs

Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price

Weighted-
Average
Remaining 
Contractual
Life

Aggregate 
Intrinsic
 Value

Outstanding at January 1

Forfeited

Outstanding at December 31
Exercisable at December 31

21,292

3,544
17,748
17,748

$

$
$

25.96

26.47
25.86
25.86

1.5 years
1.5 years

$
$

—
—

The following table summarizes Peoples’ SARs outstanding at December 31, 2015:

Number of Common
Shares Subject to
SARs Outstanding &
Exercisable

Weighted-
Average Remaining 
Contractual
Life

2,000
8,782
6,966
17,748

1.6 years
1.9 years
1.0 year
1.5 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.  
In 2015, Peoples granted an aggregate of 108,411 restricted common shares subject to performance-based vesting to officers 
and key employees with restrictions that will lapse three years after the grant date provided that in order for the restricted 
common shares to vest in full, Peoples must have reported positive net income and maintained a well capitalized status by 
regulatory standards for each of the three fiscal years preceding the vesting date.  Peoples also granted an aggregate of 5,600 
restricted common shares to non-employee directors with a six-month time-based vesting period.  In addition, Peoples 
granted restricted common shares during 2015 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, 2015:

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
19.48
21.13
18.21
24.94
21.76

47,591 $
22,600
36,907
2,550
30,734 $

Number of
Common
Shares

125,079 $
108,411
49,058
25,669
158,763 $

Weighted-
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
21.73
23.62
21.74
22.70
22.86  

The total intrinsic value of restricted common shares released was $2.0 million, $1.6 million and $654,000 in 2015, 2014 

and 2013, respectively.

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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

2015

2014

2013

$

$

1,843 $
(645)
1,198 $

2,111 $
(739)
1,372 $

1,362
(477)
885

Restricted common shares were the only stock-based compensation awards granted by Peoples in 2015, 2014 and 2013.  

The fair value of restricted common share awards on the grant date is the market price of Peoples' common shares.  Total 
unrecognized stock-based compensation expense related to unvested awards was $2.0 million at December 31, 2015, which 
will be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.9 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. 

Note 17.   Acquisitions

During 2015, Peoples completed two 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 below.  The balances and operations 
related to these acquisitions are included in Peoples' consolidated financial statements from the respective dates of 
acquisition. 

On March 6, 2015, Peoples completed its acquisition of NB&T for total consideration of $102.7 million which reflected 

the conversion of each of the 3,442,329 outstanding NB&T common shares into $7.75 in cash and 0.9319 in Peoples' 
common shares.  NB&T merged into Peoples and NB&T's wholly-owned subsidiary, The National Bank and Trust Company, 
which operated 22 full-service branches in southwest Ohio, merged into Peoples Bank.  Per the applicable accounting 
guidance for business combinations, the acquisition date fair values of the assets purchased, liabilities assumed and related 
identifiable intangible assets are preliminary and subject to refinement for up to one year after the closing date of the 
acquisition as additional information relative to closing date fair values becomes available.  The goodwill recognized will not 
be deductible for income tax purposes.  

On July 21, 2015, Peoples Insurance acquired an insurance agency and related customer accounts in the Lebanon, Ohio 

area for total cash consideration of $0.9 million, and recorded $0.5 million of customer relationship intangibles and $0.4 
million of goodwill.

On January 6, 2016, Peoples Bank acquired a small financial advisory book of business in Marietta, Ohio for cash 
consideration of $0.5 million.  This acquisition did not materially impact Peoples' financial position, results of operations or 
cash flows.

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The following table provides the purchase price calculation as of the date of acquisition for the NB&T acquisition, and 

the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at their estimated fair values. 

(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
Purchase Price

NB&T

Common shares outstanding at merger announcement

3,442,329

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 closing date

    Common share consideration

Cash in lieu of fractional common shares of Peoples

    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

$

$

$

$

$
$

7.75

26,678

0.93

23.70

76,027

4

102,709

124,825

156,392

384,588

10,702

10,130

24,458

711,095

629,512

6,570

5,941

642,023

69,072
33,637

 The estimated fair values presented in the above table reflect additional information that was obtained during the three 

months ended December 31, 2015, which resulted in changes to certain fair value estimates made as of the date of 
acquisition.  Adjustments to acquisition date estimated fair values are recorded in the period in which the adjustment is 
determined and, as a result, previously recorded results have changed.  After considering the additional information obtained 
during the three months ended December 31, 2015, the estimated fair value of other assets increased $0.6 million, the revised 
fair value estimate resulted in a net decrease to goodwill of $0.6 million from the amount reported as of September 30, 2015, 
to $33.6 million, which was recognized in the December 31, 2015 Consolidated Balance Sheet.  Refer to Note 6 for details of 
the changes in goodwill and intangible assets arising from the acquisitions. 

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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

NB&T

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

$

$

$

$

497,451

45,828

451,623

90,346

361,277

40,258

13,336

26,922

3,611

23,311

Peoples recorded non-interest expenses related to acquisitions of $10.7 million and net losses on asset disposals of $0.6 
million in the Consolidated Statement of Income during 2015. The $10.7 million was included in the following line items on 
the Consolidated Statement of Income for the year ended December 31, 2015: salaries and employee benefit costs contained 
$4.4 million, professional fees contained $1.7 million, data processing and software expense contained $0.3 million and other 
non-interest expenses contained $4.3 million.

The following table illustrates the unaudited pro forma information for the results of operations for periods ended 
December 31, as if the NB&T acquisition had occurred on January 1 of each year.  This information includes the impact of 
certain purchase accounting adjustments, including the amortization/accretion related to loans, other intangible assets, 
deposits and borrowings.  This information is presented for illustrative purposes only, and is not necessarily indicative of the 
results of operations had the acquisition been completed at the beginning of the earliest periods presented, and is not 
necessarily indicative of future results of operations.

(Dollars in thousands)

For the Twelve Months
Ended
December 31

2015

2014

Total revenue (net interest income and non-interest income) $

149,965 $

141,221

Net income available to common shareholders

12,259

23,512

Peoples' total revenue for the year ended December 31, 2015 included $26.2 million provided by NB&T and $7.8 million 

of net income.  

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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

Due from subsidiary bank

Available-for-sale investment securities, at fair value (amortized cost of $1,255 at December
31, 2015 and December 31, 2014)

Investments in subsidiaries:

Bank

Non-bank

Other assets

Total assets

Liabilities:

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

Dividends payable

Long-term borrowings

Mandatorily redeemable capital securities of subsidiary trust

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

Interest and other income

Total income

Expenses:

Trust preferred securities expense

Intercompany management fees

Other expense

Total expenses

December 31,

2015

2014

$

50 $

4,437

3,875

5,813

385,258

29,155

1,070
429,658 $

3,030 $

103

—

6,736

9,869

419,789

419,789
429,658 $

$

$

$

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

Year Ended December 31,

2015

2014

2013

$

17,500 $

21,000 $

15,000

500

205

—

132

21,705

15,132

2,000

206

19,706

304

3,171

5,653

9,128

—

1,546

4,578

6,124

—

1,257

3,411

4,668

10,464
(1,510)
5,600
17,574

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

10,578
(3,139)
(2,776)
10,941 $

15,581
(2,102)
(999)
16,684 $

$

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Statements of Cash Flows
(Dollars in thousands)

Operating activities

Net income

Adjustment to reconcile net income to cash provided by operations:

Depreciation, amortization and accretion, net

Excess dividends from (equity in) undistributed earnings of subsidiaries

Other, net

Net cash provided by operating activities

Investing activities

Investment in subsidiaries

Change in receivable from subsidiary

Business combinations, net of cash received

Net cash used in investing activities

Financing activities

Payments on long-term borrowings

Purchase of treasury stock

Proceeds from issuance of common stock

Cash dividends paid

Excess tax benefit for share-based payments

Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities

Net (decrease) increase 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,

2015

2014

2013

$

10,941 $

16,684 $

17,574

165

2,776
(1,903)
11,979

(104,584)
(2,860)
83,391
(24,053)

(14,400)
(741)
—
(10,065)
51
(25,155)
(37,229)
41,716
4,487 $

—

999

1,825

19,508

(65,822)
(187)
54,386
(11,623)

(4,800)
(520)
40,242
(6,767)
85

28,240

36,125

5,591
41,716 $

—
(5,600)
1,803

13,777

—
(619)
—
(619)

(4,800)
(228)
8
(5,419)
79
(10,360)
2,798

2,793
5,591

594 $

672 $

915

$

$

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Note 19.   Summarized Quarterly Information (Unaudited)

(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

Total interest income

Total interest expense

Net interest income

Provision for loan losses

Net loss on asset disposals and other transactions

Net gain on investment securities

Other income

Amortization of other intangible assets

Acquisition-related expenses

Other expenses

Income tax (benefit) expense

Net (loss) income

Earnings (loss) per common share - Basic

Earnings (loss) per common share - Diluted

2015(a)

First
Quarter

Second
Quarter

Third
Quarter

Fourth
Quarter

$

24,159

$

27,566

$

28,178

$

2,740

21,419

350
(1,103)
600

11,508

673

9,043

23,198
(151)
(689) $
(0.04) $
(0.04) $

$

$

$

2,773

24,793

672
(136)
11

11,926

1,144

732

26,902

2,231

4,913

0.27

0.27

$

$

$

2,642

25,536

5,837
(51)
62

11,906

1,127

109

24,876

1,370

4,134

0.23

0.22

$

$

$

28,430

2,566

25,864

7,238
(498)
56

12,101

1,133

838

25,306

425

2,583

0.14

0.14

Weighted-average common shares outstanding - Basic

15,802,334

18,116,090

18,127,131

18,142,997

Weighted-average common shares outstanding - Diluted

15,930,235

18,253,918

18,271,979

18,278,272

(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

Amortization of other intangible assets

Acquisition-related expenses

Other expenses

Income tax expense

Net income

Earnings per common share - Basic

Earnings per common share - Diluted

2014 (b)

First
Quarter

Second
Quarter (c)

Third
Quarter (c)

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

(a)  Reflects the impact of the acquisition of NB&T beginning March 6, 2015. 
(b)  Reflects the impact of the acquisitions of Midwest beginning May 30, 2014, Ohio Heritage beginning August 22, 2014, and North Akron 

beginning October 24, 2014.

(c)  Amounts adjusted for immaterial changes based on fair market value adjustments for acquired loan portfolios.

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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 28, 2016 (“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 2015 
Annual Meeting of Shareholders held on April 23, 2015.

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.

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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 2015”, “GRANTS OF PLAN-BASED AWARDS FOR 
2015”, “OUTSTANDING EQUITY AWARDS AT FISCAL YEAR-END 2015”, “OPTION EXERCISES AND STOCK 
VESTED FOR 2015”, “PENSION BENEFITS FOR 2015”, “NON-QUALIFIED DEFERRED COMPENSATION FOR 
2015”, “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, 2015, 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))

348,364 (1) $

27.45 (2)

568,479 (3)

—
348,364

$

—
27.45

—
568,479

Plan Category

Equity compensation plans
approved by shareholders
Equity compensation plans not
approved by shareholders
Total

(1)  Includes an aggregate of 52,381 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 235,147 restricted common 
shares subject to time-based or performance-based vesting restrictions granted under the 2006 Plan, and 60,836 
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 
common share awards granted under the 2006 Plan or bookkeeping accounts under the Deferred Compensation 
Plan.

(3)  Includes 284,925 common shares remaining available for future grants under the 2006 Plan at December 31, 2015, 
as well as 283,554 common shares remaining available for issuance and delivery under the ESPP.  No common 

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shares were available for future grants under the 1998 Plan and the 2002 Plan at December 31, 2015.  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 or of any of Peoples' subsidiaries 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 within their respective bookkeeping accounts, 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 substantially equal annual installments over a period of up to five years.  The stock account is distributed only in 
common shares of Peoples and the cash account is distributed only in cash.

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.

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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, 2015 and 2014

Consolidated Statements of Income for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2015

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for each of the three years in the period ended December 31,

2015

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2015

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2015

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

65

66

67

68

69

70

71

72

73

117

(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 126.  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 126.

(c)   Financial Statement Schedules

None.

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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 25, 2016

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.

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Signatures

Title

/s/ CHARLES W. SULERZYSKI
Charles W. Sulerzyski

  President, Chief Executive Officer and Director

/s/ JOHN C. ROGERS

John C. Rogers

/s/ TARA M. ABRAHAM*
Tara M. Abraham

/s/ CARL L. BAKER, JR.*
Carl L. Baker, Jr.

/s/ S. CRAIG BEAM*

S. Craig Beam

/s/ GEORGE W. BROUGHTON*
George W. Broughton

  Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer
  and Treasurer (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)

  Director

  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

  Director

/s/ BROOKE W. JAMES*

Director

Brooke W. James

/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

Date

  2/25/2016

  2/25/2016

  2/25/2016

  2/25/2016

  2/25/2016

  2/25/2016

  2/25/2016

  2/25/2016

  2/25/2016

2/25/2016

2/25/2016

2/25/2016

  2/25/2016

  2/25/2016

* 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 25th day of February,
2016.

By:

/s/ CHARLES W. SULERZYSKI
Charles W. Sulerzyski

President and Chief Executive Officer

Attorney-in-Fact

125

 
 
   
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
Table of Contents

EXHIBIT INDEX

PEOPLES BANCORP INC. ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K
FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2015

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
filed on 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.

126

   
   
Table of Contents

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

4.2(a)

4.2(b)

4.2(c)

4.2(d)

4.3

4.3(a)

4.3(b)

4.3(c)

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")

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

Second Amendment to Loan Agreement executed by Peoples
Bancorp Inc., as Borrower, and accepted by U.S. Bank National
Association, as Lender, Effective as of December 17, 2015

Filed herewith

Third Amendment to Loan Agreement executed by Peoples Bancorp
Inc., as Borrower, and accepted by U.S. Bank National Association,
as Lender, Effective as of January 12, 2016

Filed herewith

Fourth Amendment to Loan Agreement executed by Peoples Bancorp
Inc., as Borrower, and accepted by U.S. Bank National Association,
as Lender, Effective as of February 23, 2016

Filed herewith

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

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

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.8 to
Peoples' Annual Report Form 10-K for the fiscal
year ended December 31, 2014 (File No. 0-16772)
("Peoples 2014 Form 10-K")

127

   
   
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Exhibit
Number

4.3(d)

Description

Exhibit Location

Fourth Amendment to Revolving Credit Note executed by Peoples
Bancorp Inc., as Borrower, and accepted by U.S. Bank National
Association, as Lender, Effective December 17, 2015

Filed herewith

4.4

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(a)

4.6(b)

4.7(a)

Indenture, dated as of June 25, 2007, between NB&T Financial
Group, Inc., as issuer, and Wilmington Trust Company, as trustee,
relating to Fixed/Floating Rate Junior Subordinated Debt Securities
due 2037

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.1(a)
to Peoples' Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the
quarterly period ended June 30, 2015 (File No.
0-16772) ("Peoples' June 30, 2015 Form 10-Q")

First Supplemental Indenture, dated June 5, 2015, and made to be
effective as of 6:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, on March 6, 2015,
between Wilmington Trust Company, as trustee, and Peoples Bancorp
Inc.

Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust of NB&T Statutory Trust
III, dated and effective as of June 25, 2007 NOTE: Pursuant to the
First Supplemental Indenture, dated June 5, 2015, and made to be
effective as of 6:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, on March 6, 2015,
between Wilmington Trust Company, as trustee, and Peoples Bancorp
Inc., Peoples Bancorp Inc. succeeded to and was substituted for
NB&T Financial Group, Inc. as "Sponsor"

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.1(b)
to Peoples' June 30, 2015 Form 10-Q

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.2(a)
to Peoples' June 30, 2015 Form 10-Q

4.7(b)

Notice of Removal of Administrators and Appointment of
Replacements, dated June 5, 2015, delivered to Wilmington Trust
Company by the Successor Administrators named therein and
Peoples Bancorp Inc.

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.2(b)
to Peoples' June 30, 2015 Form 10-Q

4.8

4.9

Guarantee Agreement dated as of June 25, 2007, between NB&T
Financial Group, Inc. and Wilmington Trust Company, as guarantee
trustee, relating to the Capital Securities (as defined therein) NOTE:
Pursuant to the First Supplemental Indenture, dated June 5, 2015, and
made to be effective as of 6:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, on
March 6, 2015, between Wilmington Trust Company, as trustee, and
Peoples Bancorp Inc., Peoples Bancorp Inc. succeeded to and was
substituted for NB&T Financial Group, Inc. as "Guarantor"

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to
Peoples' June 30, 2015 Form 10-Q

Notice of Removal of Administrator and Appointment of
Replacement, dated February 24,2016, delivered to Wilmington Trust
Company by the continuing Administrators named therein and
Peoples Bancorp Inc.

Filed herewith

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)*

  Filed herewith

10.1(b)

Rabbi Trust Agreement, made January 6, 1998, between Peoples
Bancorp Inc. and The Peoples Banking and Trust Company
(predecessor to Peoples Bank, National Association and now known
as Peoples Bank following conversion to state-chartered bank) 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)

10.2

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

*Management Compensation Plan or Agreement

128

   
   
Table of Contents

Exhibit
Number

10.3

10.4

10.5

Description

Exhibit Location

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.*

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.*

  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”)

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

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

10.16

Summary of Perquisites for Executive Officers of Peoples Bancorp
Inc.*

  Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.16

to Peoples' 2014 Form 10-K

*Management Compensation Plan or Agreement

129

10.12

10.13

10.14

10.15

   
   
Table of Contents

Exhibit
Number

10.17

Description

Exhibit Location

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

10.20

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
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")

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' June 30, 2013 Form 10Q

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

130

   
   
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Exhibit
Number

10.31

Description

Exhibit Location

Change in Control Agreement between Peoples Bancorp Inc. and
Daniel K. McGill (adopted September 14, 2009)*

10.32

Change in Control Agreement between Peoples Bancorp Inc. and
Timothy H. Kirtley (adopted August 29, 2011).*

10.33

Change in Control Agreement between Peoples Bancorp Inc. and
Charles W. Sulerzyski (adopted April 4, 2011).*

10.34

Separation Agreement and General Release executed on November
21, 2015 by Edward G. Sloane and Peoples Bank, National
Association ( now known as Peoples Bank following conversion to
Ohio state-chartered bank)*

  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 10.1 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 November 24, 2015 (File No. 0-16772)

10.35

Change in Control Agreement between Peoples Bancorp Inc. and
John C. Rogers (adopted November 30, 2015)*

Filed herewith

10.36

Peoples Bancorp Inc. Employee Stock Purchase Plan*

Form of Securities Purchase Agreement, made as of August 4, 2014,
between Peoples Bancorp Inc. and each institutional investor
purchasing common shares of Peoples Bancorp Inc. in the private
placement that closed on August 7, 2014

10.37

10.38

Form of Peoples Bancorp Inc. Second Amended and Restated 2006
Equity Plan Performance Unit Award Agreement used and to be used
to evidence awards of performance units granted to executive officers
of Peoples Bancorp Inc.*

Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to
Peoples' Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the
quarterly period ended March 31, 2015 (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

Subsidiaries of Peoples Bancorp Inc.

Filed herewith

23

24

Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm - Ernst &
Young LLP

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 #

*Management Compensation Plan or Agreement

131

   
   
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Exhibit
Number

Description

Exhibit Location

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 #

# Attached as Exhibit 101 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015 of Peoples Bancorp Inc. are
the following documents formatted in XBRL (eXtensive Business Reporting Language): (i) Consolidated Balance Sheets at December
31, 2015 and December 31, 2014; (ii) Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013; (iii)
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013; (iv) Consolidated
Statements of Stockholders' Equity for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013; (v) Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 and (vi) Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

132

   
   
Financial Highlights

Peoples Bancorp Inc. is a diversified financial holding company 
headquartered in Marietta, Ohio, with $3.3 billion in total 
assets, 82 offices and 81 ATMs in Ohio, West Virginia, and 
Kentucky.  Over 850 dedicated associates deliver Peoples’ 
complete line of banking, investment, insurance and trust 
solutions through its subsidiaries – Peoples Bank and Peoples 

Insurance Agency, LLC.  Peoples has been in business since 
1902 and has established a heritage of financial stability, 
growth and community impact for 113 years. 

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

Dollars in Thousands, except Per Share Data 

 2015 

2014 

2013 

2015 

2014 

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) 

$  145,053 
$  115,081 
10,941 
$ 
11,017 
$ 

$  109,559 
85,009 
$ 
16,684 
$ 
7,842 
$ 

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 

$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 

0.62 
0.61 
0.60 
22.81 
14.68 
18.84 

$ 3,258,970 
$  868,830 
$ 2,072,440 
$ 2,535,944 
$  419,789 
$ 1,939,406 

0.35% 
2.69% 
3.53% 
75.50% 
14.55% 
8.69% 
0.62% 

$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 

$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 

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

1.65 
1.63 
0.57 
20.89 
13.57 
22.51 

$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 

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 
$ 1,612,278 

$  2,059,108 
$  680,526 
$  1,196,234 
$  1,580,758 
$  221,553 
$  1,539,555 

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

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

32.4% 
35.4% 
-34.4% 
40.5% 

-54.4% 
-54.8% 
0.0% 
-0.5% 
-5.7% 
-27.3% 

26.9% 
21.7% 
27.9% 
31.2% 
23.4% 
20.3% 

18.3% 
24.5% 
-5.1% 
27.3% 

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

24.7% 
4.9% 
35.5%  
22.3% 
53.5% 
4.7% 

(1) Net interest income and non-interest income (which excludes 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. 

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

15

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
2015
ANNUAL 
REPORT
Building For The Future

Call. 
Call. 
Call. 

Click.
Click.
Click.

Come In. 
Come In. 
Come In. 

800.374.6123
800.374.6123
800.374.6123

peoplesbancorp.com
peoplesbancorp.com
peoplesbancorp.com

Visit your local office
Visit your local office
Visit your local office

138 Putnam Street | PO Box 738 | Marietta, OH 45750
138 Putnam Street | PO Box 738 | Marietta, OH 45750
138 Putnam Street | PO Box 738 | Marietta, OH 45750