2015 Annual Report . Commitment You Can Count On . CORPORATE PROFILE Provident Financial Services, Inc. is the holding company for The Provident Bank. Established in 1839, The Provident Bank emphasizes “Commitment You Can Count On” in attending to the financial needs of businesses, individuals and families throughout northern and central New Jersey and Bucks County and the Lehigh Valley in Pennsylvania. The Bank offers a broad array of deposit, loan and investment products, as well as wealth management, trust and fiduciary services through its wholly owned subsidiary, Beacon Trust Company. FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS (In thousands, except branch data, per share data and percent data) At December 31, Total assets Net loans outstanding Investment securities held to maturity Securities available for sale Deposits Borrowed funds Stockholders’ equity At or for the year ended December 31, Net income Diluted earnings per share Net interest margin Average net interest rate spread Non-performing loans to total loans Allowance for loan losses to total loans Number of branches 2015 2014 2013 $8,911,657 $8,523,377 $7,487,328 6,476,250 6,023,771 5,130,149 473,684 964,534 469,528 357,500 1,074,395 1,157,594 5,923,987 5,792,523 5,202,471 1,707,632 1,509,851 1,203,879 1,196,065 1,144,099 1,010,753 $ 83,722 $ 73,631 $ 70,534 $1.33 3.20% 3.07% 0.68% 0.94% 87 $1.22 3.30% 3.18% 0.88% 1.01% 86 $1.23 3.31% 3.19% 1.48% 1.24% 77 We substantially grew our wealth management business through our acquisition of The MDE Group. Christopher Martin Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer DE A R FELLOW S TOCK HOLDER S: As I began composing this letter, I reflected on our achievement of record results for 2015, despite the many challenges affecting the banking industry and the global economy. In my message to you in last year’s Annual Report, I noted a number of issues facing Provident and the industry. Here’s a brief update on each: • A flattening yield curve – it has not been this flat in over four decades. This will continue to impact the entire industry as net interest margins further compress; • Tighter credit spreads in commercial lending – competition, tepid economic growth, and a low interest rate environment drove many competitors to relax their underwriting standards or make concessions on loan terms and/or credit structure; • Deposit costs reaching a floor – the Federal Reserve raised rates in December 2015 after following a zero interest rate policy for over six years and correspondingly, our cost of deposits has bottomed out; • Intense competition – excess capital to leverage at competitors and a sub-optimal regional economy that moderated growth initiatives of local businesses led to aggressive loan pricing, combined with a corresponding need to grow core deposits to fund loan growth; • An uneven recovery in the U.S. being impacted by global economic challenges – we have the strongest economy coming out of the Great Recession, but the balance of the world’s economies are struggling to find a solid base. In spite of these challenges, Provident achieved great things in 2015, including: 33 Record Net Income of $83.7 million and Earnings per Share of $1.33 33 Record Revenues of $305 million 33 Return on Average Assets of 96 basis points 33 An increase in our cash dividend of 6.3% 33 A Return on Average Tangible Equity of 11.1% 33 Record loan originations of $2.7 billion and 7.4% loan portfolio growth 33 Growth in non-interest bearing and core deposits 33 Improvement in asset quality ANNUAL REPORT 2015 | 3 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. Also, we substantially grew our wealth management business through our acquisition of The MDE Group in April, 2015. This resulted in Beacon Trust, our wealth subsidiary, managing over $2.4 billion in assets at December 31, 2015, while expanding our current services to include tax and financial planning strategies for our wealth clients, and adding an experienced group of knowledgeable and credentialed professionals to our team. Our asset-based lending group is making great progress as are all of our lending disciplines. And while we are always cautious in our forecasts, we currently do not see any adverse trends in asset quality, which improved dramatically over the course of 2015. It is in our corporate DNA to help our neighbors and be involved in making each of our communities a better place. Committed to our customers and communities One of the most rewarding aspects of my role at Provident is leading employees who truly take pride in giving back to the communities we serve, and who demonstrate an unending commitment to making every customer connection a positive one. During 2015, the Provident Foundation and the Bank provided over $1.5 million to numerous organizations and charities that are making a difference in other people’s lives, and our dedicated staff donated a great deal of their time and effort to helping others, without any expectation of recognition. It is in our corporate DNA to help our neighbors and be involved in making each of our communities a better place. The Economy and Looking Forward The Federal Reserve finally saw enough potential in the economy to lift its zero interest rate policy in late 2015. However, our banking system is still mired in regulations flowing from the Dodd-Frank Act, and small businesses are still challenged by an unprecedented level of government regulation and bureaucracy that continues to hamper entrepreneurship. We are hopeful that the 2016 Presidential election will begin the changes needed to promote growth and stability in the U.S. going forward. Strategies Ongoing Our strategic objectives are focused on operating as a high performing community financial institution. These objectives include: • Improving our net interest income • Pursuing accretive mergers and acquisitions • Growing our wealth management business and • Attracting, retaining and rewarding the right employees fee revenues • Growing our profitable customer relationships • Maintaining our efficient operations and controlling costs We also remain cognizant of the numerous challenges presented as we progress toward the $10 billion asset threshold. Crossing this “line in the sand” brings with it many issues, costs and regulatory burdens that are already impacting our operations. As such, our preparation and development of strategies to meet these requirements are ongoing. 4 | ANNUAL REPORT 2015 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. Like any business, there are many issues facing us that present challenges as well as opportunities. Cybersecurity is ever-present in our day-to-day processes, and our efforts to stay ahead of the ”bad guys” are continuous. The avalanche of new regulations and compliance requirements that came as a result of Dodd-Frank is ongoing. FinTech, referring to new banking and payment solutions including the development of applications, processes and products, continues to grow. These innovations will affect traditional payment systems, financial advising, and business-to-business and business-to-consumer interactions. The world of financial technology is evolving quickly and we will be part of the conversation and evaluate the impact on our customers, both current and future. Our customers expect us to be available 24-7, and our mobile applications meet those expectations. We recently introduced Apple Pay, People Pay, and extended our mobile banking solutions to business customers. We continue to cultivate dialogue with our customers through social media, digital marketing and customer relationship management tools. Overarching all of this is “engaged listening” with our clients about their goals and financial planning needs. What to expect As a research analyst’s headline read on our fourth quarter results — “Exciting results from a somewhat boring bank”, we take pride in being able to outperform many of our peers while continuing to run a conservative, efficient and engaged company built on strategic pillars that generate long-term stockholder value. To that end, we view the Eastern Pennsylvania market with great potential, and we’ll build upon our lending and support teams to assure our customers’ experiences continue to excel. We continue to cultivate dialogue with our customers through social media, digital marketing and customer relationship management tools. With thanks On behalf of our board and all the members of our management team, I would like to publicly thank our retiring director, Tucker Hogan for his many years of dedicated service. His steady guidance will be missed, and we wish him the very best. I would also like to recognize your board of directors, management and staff that have made Provident one of the most respected community banks in the region. Thank you for your continued interest and support of Provident Financial Services. Sincerely, Christopher Martin Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer ANNUAL REPORT 2015 | 5 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND CORPORATE MANAGEMENT DIRECTORS Christopher Martin Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer Frank L. Fekete Managing Partner, Mandel, Fekete & Bloom, CPAs Carlos Hernandez Former President, New Jersey City University John Pugliese President, Motors Management Corporation Thomas W. Berry Former Partner, Goldman Sachs & Co. Terence Gallagher President, Battalia Winston Thomas B. Hogan Jr.* Former Partner, Deloitte & Touche Laura L. Brooks Former Vice President–Risk Management and Chief Risk Officer, PSEG Matthew K. Harding President and Chief Operating Officer, Levin Management Corporation *Lead Director Edward O’Donnell Former President, Tradelinks Transport, Inc. MANAGEMENT P R O V I D E N T F I N A N C I A L S E R V I C E S , I N C . Christopher Martin Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer John Kuntz Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary Thomas M. Lyons Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Leonard G. Gleason Senior Vice President and Investor Relations Officer T H E P R O V I D E N T B A N K Christopher Martin Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer Brian Giovinazzi Executive Vice President and Chief Credit Officer Thomas M. Lyons Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Jack Novielli Executive Vice President and Chief Information Officer Donald W. Blum Executive Vice President and Chief Lending Officer Janet D. Krasowski Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer Frank S. Muzio Senior Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer Michael A. Raimonde Executive Vice President and Director of Retail Banking James A. Christy Senior Vice President and Chief Risk Officer John Kuntz Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer James D. Nesci Executive Vice President and Chief Wealth Management Officer UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Washington, D.C. 20549 FORM 10-K 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 No. 1-31566 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. (Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter) DELAWARE (State or Other Jurisdiction of Incorporation or Organization) 239 Washington Street, Jersey City, New Jersey (Address of Principal Executive Offices) 42-1547151 (I.R.S. Employer Identification Number) 07302 (Zip Code) (732) 590-9200 (Registrant’s Telephone Number) SECURITIES REGISTERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(B) OF THE ACT: New York Stock Exchange (Name of Exchange on Which Registered) Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share (Title of Class) SECURITIES REGISTERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(G) OF THE ACT: NONE Indicate by check mark YES NO •• if the Registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. •• if the Registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. •• 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 twelve 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. •• 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 (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). •• 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. •• 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. (Check one): Large Accelerated Filer •• Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 Non-Accelerated Filer Accelerated Filer Smaller Reporting Company of the Exchange Act). As of February 1, 2016, there were 83,209,293 issued and 65,794,731 shares of the Registrant’s Common Stock outstanding, including 363,221 shares held by the First Savings Bank Directors’ Deferred Fee Plan not otherwise considered outstanding under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. The aggregate value of the voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates of the Registrant, based on the closing price of the Common Stock as of June 30, 2015, as quoted by the NYSE, was approximately $1.13 billion. (1) Proxy Statement for the 2016 Annual Meeting of Stockholders of the Registrant (Part III). DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE Table of Contents PART I ITEM 1. ITEM 1A. ITEM 1B. ITEM 2. ITEM 3. ITEM 4. PART II Business ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................2 Risk Factors .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................27 Unresolved Staff Comments .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................31 Properties ..............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................31 Legal Proceedings ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................32 Mine Safety Disclosures ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................32 2 33 ITEM 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters ITEM 6. ITEM 7. ITEM 7A. ITEM 8. ITEM 9. ITEM 9A. ITEM 9B. PART III ITEM 10. ITEM 11. ITEM 12. ITEM 13. ITEM 14. PART IV and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities ........................................................................................................................................................................................33 Selected Financial Data .....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................35 Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................37 Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk ........................................................................................................................................47 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data ..............................................................................................................................................................................49 Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure .........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................100 Controls and Procedures ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................100 Other Information ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................100 Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance ............................................................................................................................................101 Executive Compensation .............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................101 Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters ..............................................................................................................................................................................................................101 Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence ................................................................................102 Principal Accountant Fees and Services ...............................................................................................................................................................................................102 101 103 Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules ...................................................................................................................................................................................103 ITEM 15. SIGNATURES ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................105 FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS Certain statements contained herein are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Such forward-looking statements may be identified by reference to a future period or periods, or by the use of forward-looking terminology, such as “may,” “will,” “believe,” “expect,” “estimate,” “anticipate,” “continue,” or similar terms or variations on those terms, or the negative of those terms. Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, those related to the economic environment, particularly in the market areas in which Provident Financial Services, Inc. (the “Company”) operates, competitive products and pricing, fiscal and monetary policies of the U.S. Government, changes in government regulations affecting financial institutions, including regulatory fees and capital requirements, changes in prevailing interest rates, acquisitions and the integration of acquired businesses, credit risk management, asset-liability management, the financial and securities markets and the availability of and costs associated with sources of liquidity. The Company cautions readers not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements which speak only as of the date made. The Company also advises readers that the factors listed above could affect the Company’s financial performance and could cause the Company’s actual results for future periods to differ materially from any opinions or statements expressed with respect to future periods in any current statements. The Company does not undertake and specifically declines any obligation to publicly release the result of any revisions which may be made to any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of such statements or to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events. 1 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART I ITEM 1. Business Provident Financial Services, Inc. The Company is a Delaware corporation which became the holding company for The Provident Bank (the “Bank”) on January 15, 2003, following the completion of the conversion of the Bank to a New Jersey-chartered capital stock savings bank. On January 15, 2003, the Company issued an aggregate of 59,618,300 shares of its common stock, par value $0.01 per share in a subscription offering, and contributed $4.8 million in cash and 1,920,000 shares of its common stock to The Provident Bank Foundation, a charitable foundation established by the Bank. As a result of the conversion and related stock offering, the Company raised $567.2 million in net proceeds, of which $293.2 million was utilized to acquire all of the outstanding common stock of the Bank. The Company owns all of the outstanding common stock of the Bank, and as such, is a bank holding company subject to regulation by the Federal Reserve Board. On April 1, 2015, Beacon Trust Company (“Beacon”), a wholly owned subsidiary of the Bank, completed its acquisition of certain assets and liabilities of The MDE Group, Inc. and the equity interests of Acertus Capital Management, LLC (together “MDE”), both Morristown, New Jersey-based registered investment advisory firms that manage assets for affluent and high net-worth clients. MDE was acquired with both cash and contingent consideration. The Company recognized goodwill of $18.3 million and a customer relationship intangible of $7.0 million related to the acquisition. The Company recognized a contingent consideration liability at its fair value of $338,000. The contingent consideration arrangement requires the Company to pay additional cash consideration to MDE’s former stakeholders four years after the closing of the acquisition if certain revenue targets are met. The fair value of the contingent consideration was estimated using a discounted cash flow model. The acquisition agreement limits the total payment to a maximum of $12.5 million, to be determined based on actual future results. On October 31, 2014, Beacon acquired the fiduciary account relationships of Suffolk County National Bank, a subsidiary of Suffolk Bancorp, in Suffolk County, New York. On May 30, 2014, the Company completed its acquisition of Team Capital Bank (“Team Capital”), which, after purchase accounting adjustments, added $964.0 million to total assets, $631.2 million to loans, and $769.9 million to deposits. Total consideration paid for Team Capital was $115.1 million: $31.6 million in cash and 4.9 million shares of common stock valued at $83.5 million on the acquisition date. Team Capital was merged with and into the Company’s subsidiary, The Provident Bank as of the close of business on the date of acquisition. At December 31, 2015, the Company had total assets of $8.91 billion, loans of $6.54 billion, total deposits of $5.92 billion, and total stockholders’ equity of $1.20 billion. The Company’s mailing address is 239 Washington Street, Jersey City, New Jersey 07302, and the Company’s telephone number is (732) 590-9200. Capital Management. The Company paid cash dividends totaling $41.3 million and repurchased 108,589 shares of its common stock at a cost of $2.0 million in 2015. At December 31, 2015, 3.3 million shares were eligible for repurchase under the board approved stock repurchase program. The Company and the Bank were “well capitalized” at December 31, 2015 under current regulatory standards. Available Information. The Company is a public company, and files interim, quarterly and annual reports with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). These respective reports are on file and a matter of public record with the SEC and may be read and copied at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, NE, Room 1580, Washington, DC 20549. The public may obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. The SEC maintains an Internet site that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC (http://www.sec.gov). All filed SEC reports and interim filings can also be obtained from the Bank’s website, www.providentnj.com, on the “Investor Relations” page, without charge from the Company. 2 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART I Item 1 Business The Provident Bank Established in 1839, the Bank is a New Jersey-chartered capital stock savings bank currently operating 87 full-service branch offices in the New Jersey counties of Hudson, Bergen, Essex, Mercer, Hunterdon, Middlesex, Monmouth, Morris, Ocean, Passaic, Somerset, Union and Warren, as well as in Bucks, Lehigh and Northampton counties in Pennsylvania. As a community- and customer-oriented institution, the Bank emphasizes personal service and customer convenience in serving the financial needs of the individuals, families and businesses residing in its primary market areas. The Bank attracts deposits from the general public and businesses primarily in the areas surrounding its banking offices and uses those funds, together with funds generated from operations and borrowings, to originate commercial real estate loans, commercial business loans, residential mortgage loans, and consumer loans. The Bank also invests in mortgage-backed securities and other permissible investments. The following are highlights of The Provident Bank’s operations: Diversified Loan Portfolio. To improve asset yields and reduce its exposure to interest rate risk, the Bank continues to diversify its loan portfolio and has emphasized the origination of commercial real estate loans, multi-family loans and commercial business loans. These loans generally have adjustable rates or shorter fixed terms and interest rates that are higher than the rates applicable to one- to four-family residential mortgage loans. However, these loans generally have a higher risk of loss than one- to four- family residential mortgage loans. Asset Quality. As of December 31, 2015, non-performing assets were $55.1 million or 0.62% of total assets, compared to $59.0 million or 0.69% of total assets at December 31, 2014. The Bank’s non-performing asset levels continued to decline from higher levels reported in prior years as local and national economic conditions have gradually improved. The Bank continues to focus on conservative underwriting criteria and on active and timely collection efforts. Emphasis on Relationship Banking and Core Deposits. The Bank emphasizes the acquisition and retention of core deposit accounts, consisting of savings and demand deposit accounts, and expanding customer relationships. Core deposit accounts totaled $5.18 billion at December 31, 2015, representing 87.5% of total deposits, compared with $4.97 billion, or 85.7% of total deposits at December 31, 2014. The Bank also focuses on increasing the number of households and businesses served and the number of banking products per customer. Non-Interest Income. The Bank’s focus on transaction accounts and expanded products and services has enabled the Bank to generate non-interest income. Fees derived from core deposit accounts are a primary source of non-interest income. The Bank also offers investment, wealth and asset management services through its subsidiaries to generate non-interest income. Total non-interest income was $55.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, compared with $41.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2014, of which fee income was $26.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, compared with $21.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. Managing Interest Rate Risk. The Bank manages its exposure to interest rate risk through the origination and retention of adjustable rate and shorter-term loans, and its investments in securities. In addition, the Bank uses interest rate swaps as part of its interest rate risk management strategy. Interest rate swaps designated as cash flow hedges involve the receipt of variable amounts from a counterparty in exchange for the Bank making fixed-rate payments over the life of the agreements without exchange of the underlying notional amount. At December 31, 2015, 57.7% of the Bank’s loan portfolio had a term to maturity of one year or less, or had adjustable interest rates. At December 31, 2015, the Bank’s securities portfolio totaled $1.52 billion and had an expected average life of 4.40 years. to manage its exposure to interest rate movements. Market Area The Company and the Bank are headquartered in Jersey City, which is located in Hudson County, New Jersey. At December 31, 2015, the Bank operated a network of 87 full-service banking offices throughout thirteen counties in northern and central New Jersey, as well as in Bucks, Lehigh and Northampton counties in Pennsylvania. The Bank maintains its administrative offices in Iselin, New Jersey and satellite loan production offices in Convent Station, Flemington, Paramus, Princeton and West Orange, New Jersey, as well as in Bethlehem and Newtown, Pennsylvania. The Bank’s lending activities, though concentrated in the communities surrounding its offices, extend predominantly throughout New Jersey and eastern Pennsylvania. The Bank’s primary market area includes a mix of urban and suburban communities, and has a diversified mix of industries including pharmaceutical, manufacturing companies, network communications, insurance and financial services, healthcare, and retail. According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s most recent population data, the Bank’s New Jersey market area has a population of 6.9 million, which was 74.6% of the state’s total population. The Bank’s Pennsylvania market area has a population of 1.3 million, which was 10.0% of that state’s total population. Because of the diversity of industries within the Bank’s market area and, to a lesser extent, its proximity to the New York City financial markets, the area’s economy can be significantly affected by 3 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART I Item 1 Business changes in national and international economies. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate in New Jersey was 5.1% at December 31, 2015, a decrease from 6.2% at December 31, 2014. The unemployment rate in Pennsylvania remained unchanged at 4.8% for December 31, 2015, compared to December 31, 2014. Within its primary market areas in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, the Bank had an approximate 2.13% and 0.85% share of bank deposits as of June 30, 2015, respectively, the latest date for which statistics are available. On a statewide basis, the Bank had an approximate 1.57% deposit share of the New Jersey market and an approximate 0.07% deposit share of the Pennsylvania market. Competition The Bank faces intense competition in originating and retaining loans and attracting deposits. The northern and central New Jersey and eastern Pennsylvania market areas have a high concentration of financial institutions, including large money center and regional banks, community banks, credit unions, investment brokerage firms and insurance companies. The Bank faces direct competition for loans from each of these institutions as well as from mortgage companies and other loan origination firms operating in its market area. The Bank’s most direct competition for deposits has come from several commercial banks and savings banks in its market area. Certain of these banks have substantially greater financial resources than the Bank. In addition, the Bank faces significant competition for deposits from the mutual fund and investment advisory industries and from investors’ direct purchases of short-term money market securities and other corporate and government securities. The Bank competes in this environment by maintaining a diversified product line, including mutual funds, annuities and other investment services made available through its investment subsidiaries. Relationships with customers are built and maintained through the Bank’s branch network, its deployment of branch ATMs, and its mobile, telephone and web-based banking services. Lending Activities The Bank originates commercial real estate loans, commercial business loans, fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgage loans collateralized by one- to four-family residential real estate and other consumer loans, for borrowers generally located within its primary market area. Residential mortgage loans are primarily underwritten to standards that allow the sale of the loans to the secondary markets, primarily to the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (“FHLMC” or “Freddie Mac”), the Federal National Mortgage Association (“FNMA” or “Fannie Mae”) and the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York (“FHLBNY”). To manage interest rate risk, the Bank generally sells fixed-rate residential mortgages that it originates with terms greater than 15 years. The Bank commonly retains biweekly payment fixed-rate residential mortgage loans with a maturity of 30 years or less and a majority of the originated adjustable rate mortgages for its portfolio. The Bank originates commercial real estate loans that are secured by income-producing properties such as multi-family apartment buildings, office buildings, and retail and industrial properties. Generally, these loans have maturities of either 5 or 10 years. For loans greater than $5.0 million originated with maturities in excess of 7 years, the Bank generally requires loan-level interest rate swaps. The Bank has historically provided construction loans for both single family and condominium projects intended for sale and commercial projects, including residential for rent projects, that will be retained as investments by the borrower. The Bank underwrites most construction loans for a term of three years or less. The majority of these loans are underwritten on a floating rate basis. The Bank recognizes that there is higher risk in construction lending than permanent lending. As such, the Bank takes certain precautions to mitigate this risk, including the retention of an outside engineering firm to perform plan and cost reviews and to review all construction advances made against work in place and a limitation on how and when loan proceeds are advanced. In most cases, for the single family and condominium projects, the Bank limits its exposure against houses or units that are not under contract. Similarly, commercial construction loans usually have commitments for significant pre-leasing, or funds are held back until the leases are finalized. Funding requirements and loan structure for residential for-rent projects vary depending on whether such projects are vertical or horizontal construction. The Bank originates consumer loans that are secured, in most cases, by a borrower’s assets. Home equity loans and home equity lines of credit that are secured by a first or second mortgage lien on the borrower’s residence comprise the largest category of the Bank’s consumer loan portfolio. Commercial loans are made to businesses of varying size and type within the Bank’s market. The Bank lends to established businesses, and the loans are generally secured by business assets such as equipment, receivables, inventory, real estate or marketable securities. On a limited basis, the Bank makes unsecured commercial loans. Most commercial lines of credit are made on a floating interest rate basis and most term loans are made on a fixed interest rate basis, usually with terms of five years or less. Loan Portfolio Composition. Set forth below is selected information concerning the composition of the loan portfolio by type, including Purchased Credit Impaired (“PCI”) loans, (after deductions for deferred fees and costs, unearned discounts and premiums and allowances for losses) at the dates indicated. 4 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report Residential mortgage loans Commercial mortgage loans Multi-family mortgage loans Construction loans (Dollars in thousands) Amount Percent Amount Percent Amount Percent Amount Percent Amount Percent 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 At December 31, PART I Item 1 Business $ 1,255,159 19.38% $ 1,252,526 20.79% $ 1,174,043 22.89% $ 1,265,015 26.17% $ 1,308,635 28.58% 1,716,117 26.50 1,695,822 28.15 1,400,624 27.30 1,349,950 27.92 1,253,542 27.37 Total mortgage loans 4,536,991 Commercial loans Consumer loans 1,434,291 566,175 1,234,066 331,649 19.06 5.12 70.06 22.15 8.74 1,042,223 221,102 4,211,673 1,263,618 611,596 17.30 3.67 69.91 20.98 10.15 928,906 183,289 3,686,862 932,199 577,602 18.11 3.57 71.87 18.17 11.26 723,958 120,133 3,459,056 866,395 579,166 14.98 2.48 71.55 17.92 11.98 564,147 114,817 3,241,141 849,009 560,970 12.32 2.51 70.78 18.54 12.25 Total gross loans 6,537,457 100.95 6,086,887 101.04 5,196,663 101.30 4,904,617 101.45 4,651,120 101.57 Premiums on purchased loans Unearned discounts Net deferred costs (fees) 5,740 (41) 0.09 — 5,307 (53) 0.09 — 4,202 (62) 0.08 — 4,964 (78) 0.10 — 5,823 (100) 0.13 — (5,482) (0.09) (6,636) (0.11) (5,990) (0.12) (4,804) (0.10) (3,334) (0.07) Total loans 6,537,674 100.95 6,085,505 101.02 5,194,813 101.26 4,904,699 101.45 4,653,509 101.63 Allowance for loan losses (61,424) (0.95) (61,734) (1.02) (64,664) (1.26) (70,348) (1.45) (74,351) (1.62) Total loans, net $ 6,476,250 100.00% $ 6,023,771 100.00% $ 5,130,149 100.00% $ 4,834,351 100.00% $ 4,579,158 100.00% Loan Maturity Schedule. The following table sets forth certain information as of December 31, 2015, regarding the maturities of loans in the loan portfolio, including PCI loans. Demand loans having no stated schedule of repayment and no stated maturity, and overdrafts are reported as due within one year. (Dollars in thousands) One Through Three Years Three Through Five Years Five Through Ten Years Ten Through Twenty Years Beyond Twenty Years Within One Year Total Residential mortgage loans $ 2,770 $ 17,106 $ 13,863 $ 90,878 $ 490,378 $ 640,164 $ 1,255,159 Commercial mortgage loans Multi-family mortgage loans Construction loans Total mortgage loans Commercial loans Consumer loans Total gross loans 73,695 23,307 137,538 237,310 274,795 231,110 32,990 181,303 462,509 206,400 239,096 213,139 1,667 977,771 756,409 11,141 467,765 1,836,199 188,879 513,658 169,699 205,328 — 865,405 209,380 24,746 1,716,117 2,893 1,234,066 — 331,649 667,803 4,536,991 41,179 1,434,291 17,659 10,281 16,895 82,245 342,811 96,284 566,175 $ 529,764 $ 679,190 $ 673,539 $ 2,432,102 $ 1,417,596 $ 805,266 $ 6,537,457 Fixed- and Adjustable-Rate Loan Schedule. The following table sets forth at December 31, 2015 the amount of all fixed-rate and adjustable-rate loans due after December 31, 2016. (Dollars in thousands) Residential mortgage loans Commercial mortgage loans Multi-family mortgage loans Construction loans Total mortgage loans Commercial loans Consumer loans Total loans Due After December 31, 2016 Fixed 784,803 726,712 452,330 12,808 1,976,653 454,108 333,815 2,764,576 $ $ Adjustable 467,586 915,710 758,429 181,303 2,323,028 705,388 214,701 3,243,117 $ $ Total 1,252,389 1,642,422 1,210,759 194,111 4,299,681 1,159,496 548,516 6,007,693 $ $ 5 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART I Item 1 Business Residential Mortgage Loans. The Bank originates residential mortgage loans secured by first mortgages on one- to four-family residences, generally located in the State of New Jersey and the eastern part of Pennsylvania. The Bank originates residential mortgages primarily through commissioned mortgage representatives and through the Internet. The Bank originates both fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgages. As of December 31, 2015, $1.26 billion or 19.4% of the total portfolio consisted of residential real estate loans. Of the one- to four-family loans at that date, 62.7% were fixed-rate and 37.3% were adjustable-rate loans. The Bank originates fixed-rate fully amortizing residential mortgage loans with the principal and interest due each month, that typically have maturities ranging from 10 to 30 years. The Bank also originates fixed-rate residential mortgage loans with maturities of 10, 15, 20 and 30 years that require the payment of principal and interest on a biweekly basis. Fixed-rate jumbo residential mortgage loans (loans over the maximum that one of the government-sponsored agencies will purchase) are originated with maturities of up to 30 years. The Bank currently offers adjustable-rate mortgage loans with a fixed-rate period of 5, 7 or 10 years prior to the first annual interest rate adjustment. The standard adjustment formula is the one-year constant maturity Treasury rate plus 2.75%, adjusting annually after its first re-set period, with a 2% maximum annual adjustment and a 6% maximum adjustment over the life of the loan. Residential mortgage loans are primarily underwritten to Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae standards. The Bank’s standard maximum loan to value ratio is 80%. However, working through mortgage insurance companies, the Bank underwrites loans for sale to Freddie Mac or Fannie Mae programs that will finance up to 95% of the value of the residence. Generally all fixed-rate loans with terms of 20 years or more are sold into the secondary market with servicing rights retained. Fixed-rate residential mortgage loans retained in the Bank’s portfolio generally include loans with a term of 15 years or less and biweekly payment residential mortgage loans with a term of 30 years or less. The Bank retains the majority of the originated adjustable-rate mortgages for its portfolio. Loans are sold without recourse, generally with servicing rights retained by the Bank. The percentage of loans sold into the secondary market will vary depending upon interest rates and the Bank’s strategies for reducing exposure to interest rate risk. In 2015, $3.9 million or 3.3% of residential real estate loans originated were sold into the secondary market. All of the loans sold in 2015 were long-term, fixed-rate mortgages. The retention of adjustable-rate mortgages, as opposed to longer- term, fixed-rate residential mortgage loans, helps reduce the Bank’s exposure to interest rate risk. However, adjustable-rate mortgages generally pose credit risks different from the credit risks inherent in fixed-rate loans primarily because as interest rates rise, the underlying debt service payments of the borrowers rise, thereby increasing the potential for default. The Bank believes that these credit risks, which have not had a material adverse effect on the Bank to date, generally are less onerous than the interest rate risk associated with holding 20- and 30-year fixed-rate loans in its loan portfolio. For many years, the Bank has offered discounted rates on residential mortgage loans to low- to moderate-income individuals. Loans originated in this category over the last five years have totaled $21.8 million. The Bank also offers a special rate program for first-time homebuyers under which originations have totaled over 6 $7.6 million for the past five years. The Bank does not originate or purchase sub-prime or option ARM loans. Commercial Real Estate Loans. The Bank originates loans secured by mortgages on various commercial income producing properties, including multi-family apartment buildings, office buildings and retail and industrial properties. Commercial real estate loans were 26.5% of the loan portfolio at December 31, 2015. A substantial majority of the Bank’s commercial real estate loans are secured by properties located in the State of New Jersey. The Bank originates commercial real estate loans with adjustable rates and with fixed interest rates for a period that is generally five to ten years or less, which may adjust after the initial period. Typically these loans are written for maturities of ten years or less and generally have an amortization schedule of 20 or 25 years. As a result, the typical amortization schedule will result in a substantial principal payment upon maturity. The Bank generally underwrites commercial real estate loans to a maximum 75% advance against either the appraised value of the property, or its purchase price (for loans to fund the acquisition of real estate), whichever is less. The Bank generally requires minimum debt service coverage of 1.20 times. There is a potential risk that the borrower may be unable to pay off or refinance the outstanding balance at the loan maturity date. The Bank typically lends to experienced owners or developers who have knowledge and contacts in the commercial real estate market. Among the reasons for the Bank’s continued emphasis on commercial real estate lending is the desire to invest in assets bearing interest rates that are generally higher than interest rates on residential mortgage loans and more sensitive to changes in market interest rates. Commercial real estate loans, however, entail significant additional credit risk as compared to one- to four-family residential mortgage loans, as they typically involve larger loan balances concentrated with single borrowers or groups of related borrowers. In addition, the payment experience on commercial real estate loans secured by income-producing properties is typically dependent on the successful operation of the related real estate project and thus may be more significantly impacted by adverse conditions in the real estate market or in the economy generally. The Bank performs more extensive due diligence in underwriting commercial real estate loans than loans secured by owner-occupied one- to four-family residential properties due to the larger loan amounts and the riskier nature of such loans. The Bank assesses and mitigates the risk in several ways, including inspection of all such properties and the review of the overall financial condition of the borrower and guarantors, which may include, for example, the review of the rent rolls and the verification of income. If applicable, a tenant analysis and market analysis are part of the underwriting. Generally, for commercial real estate secured loans in excess of $1.0 million and for all other commercial real estate loans where it is deemed appropriate, the Bank requires environmental professionals to inspect the property and ascertain any potential environmental risks. In accordance with regulatory guidelines, the Bank requires a full independent appraisal for commercial real estate properties. The appraiser must be selected from the Bank’s approved list, or otherwise approved by the Chief Credit Officer in instances such as out-of-state or special use property. The Bank also employs an independent review appraiser to ensure that the appraisal meets the Bank’s standards. Financial statements are also required annually PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report for review. The Bank’s policy also requires that a property inspection of commercial mortgages over $2.5 million be completed at least every 18 months, or more frequently when warranted. The Bank’s largest commercial mortgage loan as of December 31, 2015 was a $27.4 million loan secured by a first mortgage lien on a 378 room, full service hotel and a 422 car parking garage located in Elizabeth, New Jersey. The loan has a risk rating of “4” (loans rated 1-4 are deemed to be “acceptable quality”—see discussion of the Bank’s nine-point risk rating system for loans under “Allowance for Loan Losses” in the “Asset Quality” section) and was performing in accordance with its terms and conditions as of December 31, 2015. Multi-family Loans. The Bank underwrites loans secured by apartment buildings that have five or more units. The Bank considers multi-family lending a component of the commercial real estate lending portfolio. The underwriting standards and procedures that are used to underwrite commercial real estate loans are used to underwrite multi-family loans, except the loan-to-value ratio shall not exceed 80% of the appraised value of the property, the debt-service coverage should be a minimum of 1.15 times and an amortization period of up to 30 years may be used. The Bank’s largest multi-family loan as of December 31, 2015 was a $41.0 million loan secured by a first lease-hold mortgage lien on a newly renovated 129-unit, six story class A luxury rental apartment building with 12,000 square feet of office/retail space located in Morristown, New Jersey. The project sponsor is one of the largest privately-held real estate owner/developers in the United States, and has extensive experience and a successful track record in the development and management of multi-family projects. The loan has a risk rating of “3” (loans rated 1-4 are deemed to be “acceptable quality”—see discussion of the Bank’s nine-point risk rating system for loans under “Allowance for Loan Losses” in the “Asset Quality” section) and was performing in accordance with its terms and conditions as of December 31, 2015. Construction Loans. The Bank originates commercial construction loans. Commercial construction lending includes both new construction of residential and commercial real estate projects and the reconstruction of existing structures. The Bank’s commercial construction financing includes projects constructed for investment purposes (rental property), projects for sale (single family/condominiums) and to a lesser extent owner- occupied business properties. To mitigate the speculative nature of construction loans, the Bank generally requires significant pre-leasing on rental properties; requires that a percentage of the for-sale single-family residences or condominiums be under contract to support construction loan advances; and requires other covenants on residential for rent projects depending on whether the project is vertical or horizontal construction. The Bank underwrites construction loans for a term of three years or less. The majority of the Bank’s construction loans are floating-rate loans with a maximum 75% loan-to-value ratio for the completed project. The Bank employs professional engineering firms to assist in the review of construction cost estimates and make site inspections to determine if the work has been completed prior to the advance of funds for the project. Construction lending generally involves a greater degree of risk than commercial real estate or multi-family lending. Repayment of a construction loan is, to a great degree, dependent upon the PART I Item 1 Business successful and timely completion of the construction of the subject project and the successful marketing of the sale or lease of the project. Construction delays, slower than anticipated absorption or the financial impairment of the builder may negatively affect the borrower’s ability to repay the loan. For all construction loans, the Bank requires an independent appraisal, which includes information on market rents and/or comparable sales for competing projects. The Bank also obtains personal guarantees and conducts environmental due diligence as appropriate. The Bank also employs other means to mitigate the risk of the construction lending process. On commercial construction projects that the developer maintains for rental, the Bank typically holds back funds for tenant improvements until a lease is executed. For single family and condominium financing, the Bank generally requires payment for the release of a unit that exceeds the amount of the loan advance attributable to such unit. The Bank’s largest construction loan at December 31, 2015 was a $23.8 million loan secured by a first mortgage lien on a 138,600 square foot freezer warehouse which is under construction in Elizabeth, New Jersey. The loan had an outstanding balance of $2.5 million at December 31, 2015. Construction of the project is approximately 30% complete. The building is 100% pre- leased. The project’s sponsors have extensive experience and a successful track record in the development and management of commercial real estate. The loan has a risk rating of “4” (loans rated 1-4 are deemed to be “acceptable quality”-see discussion of the Bank’s nine-point risk rating system for loans under “Allowance for Loan Losses” in the “Asset Quality” section) and was performing in accordance with its terms and conditions as of December 31, 2015. Commercial Loans. The Bank underwrites commercial loans to corporations, partnerships and other businesses. Commercial loans represented 22.1% of the loan portfolio at December 31, 2015. The majority of the Bank’s commercial loan customers are local businesses with revenues of less than $50.0 million. The Bank primarily offers commercial loans for equipment purchases, lines of credit for working capital purposes, letters of credit, asset- based lines of credit and real estate loans where the borrower is the primary occupant of the property. Most commercial loans are originated on a floating-rate basis and the majority of fixed- rate commercial term loans are fully amortized over a five-year period. Owner-occupied commercial real estate loans are generally underwritten to terms consistent with those utilized for commercial real estate; however, the maximum loan-to-value ratio for owner- occupied commercial real estate loans is 80%. The Bank also underwrites Small Business Administration (“SBA”) guaranteed loans and guaranteed or assisted loans through various state, county and municipal programs. These governmental guarantees are typically used in cases where the borrower requires additional credit support. The Bank has “Preferred Lender” status with the SBA, allowing a more streamlined application and approval process. The underwriting of a commercial loan is based upon a review of the financial statements of the prospective borrower and guarantors. In most cases the Bank obtains a general lien on accounts receivable and inventory, along with the specific collateral such as real estate or equipment, as appropriate. 7 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART I Item 1 Business Commercial loans generally bear higher interest rates than mortgage loans, but they also involve a higher risk of default since their repayment is generally dependent on the cash flow of the borrower’s business. As a result, the availability of funds for the repayment of commercial loans may be substantially dependent on the success of the business itself and the general economic environment. The Bank’s largest commercial loan as of December 31, 2015 was a $38.0 million line of credit to a general contracting company specializing in bridge and highway construction with a risk rating of “3” (loans rated 1-4 are deemed “acceptable quality”-see discussion of the Bank’s nine-point risk rating system for loans under “Allowance for Loan Losses” in the “Asset Quality” section). The line is used primarily for bid bonding and working capital purposes. The Bank sold a participation interest of $10.0 million in the line of credit to another financial institution, which reduced the Bank’s exposure to $28.0 million. As of December 31, 2015, the line of credit did not have an outstanding balance. Consumer Loans. The Bank offers a variety of consumer loans on a direct basis to individuals. Consumer loans represented 8.7% of the loan portfolio at December 31, 2015. Home equity loans and home equity lines of credit constituted 93.7% of the consumer loan portfolio and indirect marine loans constituted 3.3% of the consumer loan portfolio as of December 31, 2015. The remaining 3% of the consumer loan portfolio includes personal loans and unsecured lines of credit, direct auto loans and recreational vehicle loans. Interest rates on home equity loans are fixed for a term not to exceed 20 years and the maximum loan amount is $650,000. A portion of the home equity loan portfolio includes “first lien product loans,” under which the Bank has offered special rates to borrowers who refinance first mortgage loans on the home equity (first lien) basis. As of December 31, 2015, there was $282.4 million of first- lien home equity loans outstanding. The Bank’s home equity lines are made at floating interest rates and the Bank provides lines of credit of up to $500,000. The approved home equity lines and utilization amounts as of December 31, 2015 were $506.3 million and $212.8 million, respectively, representing utilization of 42.0%. Consumer loans generally entail greater credit risk than residential mortgage loans, particularly in the case of home equity loans and lines of credit secured by second lien positions, consumer loans that are unsecured or that are secured by assets that tend to depreciate, such as automobiles, boats and recreational vehicles. Collateral repossessed by the Bank from a defaulted consumer loan may not provide an adequate source of repayment of the outstanding loan balance, and the remaining deficiency may warrant further substantial collection efforts against the borrower. In addition, consumer loan collections are dependent upon the borrower’s continued financial stability, and which is more likely to be adversely affected by job loss, divorce, illness or personal bankruptcy. Furthermore, the application of various federal and state laws, including bankruptcy and insolvency laws, may limit the amount the Bank can recover on such loans. Loan Originations, Purchases, and Repayments. The following table sets forth the Bank’s loan origination, purchase and repayment activities for the periods indicated. (in thousands) Originations: Residential mortgage Commercial mortgage Multi-family mortgage Construction Commercial Consumer Subtotal of loans originated Loans purchased Total loans originated and purchased Net loans acquired in acquisition Loans sold Repayments: Residential mortgage Commercial mortgage Multi-family mortgage Construction Commercial Consumer Total repayments Total reductions Other items, net(1) Net increase (1) Other items, net include charge-offs, deferred fees and expenses, discounts and premiums. 8 Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 117,397 $ 332,940 308,298 304,733 1,437,749 154,781 2,655,898 95,283 2,751,181 — 11,918 204,863 303,165 176,312 119,784 1,279,978 196,819 2,280,921 2,292,839 (6,173) 452,169 $ 72,418 $ 222,516 127,060 242,898 972,866 168,747 1,806,505 130,540 1,937,045 631,209 12,609 151,004 196,002 48,758 229,695 851,682 177,406 1,654,547 1,667,156 (10,406) 890,692 $ 122,492 254,087 294,288 182,895 711,248 205,282 1,770,292 34,766 1,805,058 — 30,977 228,195 216,068 137,576 47,835 635,764 203,256 1,468,694 1,499,671 (15,273) 290,114 $ $ PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART I Item 1 Business for commercial and commercial real estate loans above certain dollar thresholds, depending on loan type, to help determine the appropriate risk ratings. The risk ratings play an important role in the establishment of the loan loss provision and to confirm the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses. Loans to One Borrower. The regulatory limit on total loans to any borrower or attributed to any one borrower is 15% of the Bank’s unimpaired capital and surplus. As of December 31, 2015, the regulatory lending limit was $114.8 million. The Bank’s current internal policy limit on total loans to a borrower or related borrowers that constitute a group exposure is up to $80.0 million for loans with a risk rating of “2” or better, up to $70.0 million for loans with a risk rating of “3”, and up to $50.0 million for loans with a risk rating of “4”. Maximum group exposure limits may be lower depending on the type of loans involved. The Bank reviews these group exposures on a quarterly basis. The Bank also sets additional limits on size of loans by loan type. At December 31, 2015, the Bank’s largest group exposure with an individual borrower and its related entities was $81.2 million, consisting of 15 commercial permanent mortgage loans totaling $69.2 million, secured by 10 first mortgage liens and five second mortgage liens on 10 commercial real estate properties located in northern New Jersey with an average risk rating of “3”, as well as a $12.0 million acquisition and renovation loan secured by a first mortgage lien on a 135,500 square foot retail shopping center in Little Ferry, New Jersey with a risk rating of “3”. As of December 31, 2015, this loan had an outstanding balance of $8.0 million. The borrower, headquartered in New Jersey, is an experienced real estate owner and developer in the state of New Jersey. Management has determined that this exception to the internal group exposure policy limit is manageable and is mitigated by the borrower’s diverse revenue mix, as well as its reputation and proven successful track record. This lending relationship was approved as an exception to the internal policy limits by the management Credit Committee and reported to the Risk Committee of the Board of Directors, and conformed to the regulatory limit applicable to the Bank at the time the loan was originated. As of December 31, 2015, all of the loans in this lending relationship were performing in accordance with their respective terms and conditions. As of December 31, 2015, the Bank had $1.9 billion in loans outstanding to its 50 largest borrowers and their related entities. Loan Approval Procedures and Authority. The Bank’s Board of Directors approves the Lending Policy on an annual basis as well as on an interim basis as modifications are warranted. The Lending Policy sets the Bank’s lending authority for each type of loan. The Bank’s lending officers are assigned dollar authority limits based upon their experience and expertise. All loan approvals require joint lending authority. The largest individual lending authority is $10.0 million, which is only available to the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Lending Officer. The authority of the Chief Lending Officer may be increased to $15.0 million for permanent commercial real estate loans when combined with the additional approval of the Chief Credit Officer. Loans in excess of these limits, or which when combined with existing credits of the borrower or related borrowers exceed these limits, are presented to the management Credit Committee for approval. The Credit Committee currently consists of eight senior officers including the Chief Executive Officer, the Chief Lending Officer, the Chief Financial Officer and the Chief Credit Officer, and requires a majority vote for credit approval. While the Bank discourages loan policy exceptions, from time to time, based upon reasonable business considerations exceptions to the policy may be warranted. The business reason and mitigants for the exception must be noted on the loan approval document. The policy exception requires the approval of the Chief Lending Officer or the Department Manager of the lending department responsible for the underlying loan, if it is within his or her approval authority limit. All other policy exceptions must be approved by the Credit Committee. The Credit Administration Department reports the type and frequency of loan policy exceptions to the Credit Committee and the Risk Committee of the Board of Directors on a quarterly basis, or more frequently if necessary. The Bank has adopted a risk rating system as part of the credit risk assessment of its loan portfolio. The Bank’s commercial real estate and commercial lending officers are required to assign a risk rating to each loan in their portfolio at origination. When the lender learns of important financial developments, the risk rating is reviewed accordingly. Risk ratings are subject to review by the Credit Administration Department. Similarly, the Credit Committee can adjust a risk rating. Quarterly, management’s Credit Risk Management Committee meets to review all loans rated a “watch” (“5”) or worse. In addition, a loan review examination is performed by an independent third party which validates the risk ratings on a sample basis. The Bank requires an annual review be performed Asset Quality General. One of the Bank’s key objectives has been and continues to be to maintain a high level of asset quality. In addition to maintaining sound credit standards for new loan originations, the Bank employs proactive collection and workout processes in dealing with delinquent or problem loans. The Bank actively markets properties that it acquires through foreclosure or otherwise in the loan collection process. Collection Procedures. In the case of residential mortgage and consumer loans, the collections personnel in the Bank’s Asset Recovery Department are responsible for collection activities from the sixteenth day of delinquency. Collection efforts include automated notices of delinquency, telephone calls, letters and other notices to delinquent borrowers. Foreclosure proceedings and other appropriate collection activities such as repossession of collateral are commenced within at least 90 to 120 days after a loan is delinquent provided a plan of repayment to cure the delinquency cannot be reached with the borrower. Periodic inspections of real estate and other collateral are conducted throughout the collection process. The Bank’s collection procedures for Federal Housing Association (“FHA”) and Veteran’s Administration (“VA”) one- to four-family mortgage loans follow the collection guidelines outlined by those agencies. 9 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART I Item 1 Business Real estate and other assets acquired through foreclosure or in connection with a loan workout are held as foreclosed assets. The Bank carries other real estate owned and other foreclosed assets at the lower of their cost or their fair value less estimated selling costs. The Bank attempts to sell the property at foreclosure sale or as soon as practical after the foreclosure sale through a proactive marketing effort. The collection procedures for commercial real estate and commercial loans include sending periodic late notices and letters to a borrower once a loan is past due. The Bank attempts to make direct contact with a borrower once a loan is 16 days past due, usually by telephone. The Chief Lending Officer and Chief Credit Officer review all commercial real estate and commercial loan delinquencies on a weekly basis. Generally, delinquent commercial real estate and commercial loans are transferred to the Asset Recovery Department for further action if the delinquency is not cured within a reasonable period of time, typically 90 days. The Chief Lending Officer and Chief Credit Officer have the authority to transfer performing commercial real estate or commercial loans to the Asset Recovery Department if, in their opinion, a credit problem exists or is likely to occur. Loans deemed uncollectible are proposed for charge-off on a monthly basis. Any charge-off recommendation of $500,000 or greater is submitted to Executive Management for approval. Delinquent Loans and Non-performing Loans and Assets. The Bank’s policies require that the Chief Credit Officer continuously monitor the status of the loan portfolios and report to the Board of Directors on a monthly basis. These reports include information on impaired loans, delinquent loans, criticized and classified assets, and foreclosed assets. An impaired loan is defined as a non- homogenous loan greater than $1.0 million for which it is probable, based on current information, that the Bank will not collect all amounts due under the contractual terms of the loan agreement. Impaired loans also include all loans modified as troubled debt restructurings (“TDRs”). A loan is deemed to be a TDR when a modification resulting in a concession is made by the Bank in an effort to mitigate potential loss arising from a borrower’s financial difficulty. Smaller balance homogeneous loans including residential mortgages and other consumer loans are evaluated collectively for impairment and are excluded from the definition of impaired loans, except for TDRs. Impaired loans are individually identified and reviewed to determine that each loan’s carrying value is not in excess of the fair value of the related collateral or the present value of the expected future cash flows. As of December 31, 2015, there were 148 impaired loans totaling $50.9 million, of which 143 loans totaling $43.9 million were TDRs. Included in this total were 122 TDRs to 120 borrowers totaling $26.0 million that were performing in accordance with their restructured terms and which continued to accrue interest at December 31, 2015. Interest income stops accruing on loans when interest or principal payments are 90 days in arrears or earlier when the timely collectability of such interest or principal is doubtful. When the accrual of interest on a loan is stopped, the loan is designated as a non-accrual loan and the outstanding unpaid interest previously credited is reversed. A non-accrual loan is returned to accrual status when factors indicating doubtful collection no longer exist, the loan has been brought current and the borrower demonstrates some period (generally six months) of timely contractual payments. Federal and state regulations as well as the Bank’s policy require the Bank to utilize an internal risk rating system as a means of reporting problem and potential problem assets. Under this system, 10 the Bank classifies problem and potential problem assets as “substandard,” “doubtful” or “loss” assets. An asset is considered “substandard” if it is inadequately protected by the current net worth and paying capacity of the obligor or of the collateral pledged, if any. “Substandard” assets include those characterized by the “distinct possibility” that the Bank will sustain “some loss” if the deficiencies are not corrected. Assets classified as “doubtful” have all of the weaknesses inherent in those classified “substandard” with the added characteristic that the weaknesses present make “collection or liquidation in full,” on the basis of currently existing facts, conditions, and values, “highly questionable and improbable.” Assets classified as “loss” are those considered “uncollectible” and of such little value that their continuance as assets without the establishment of a specific loss reserve is not warranted. Assets which do not currently expose the Bank to sufficient risk to warrant classification in one of the aforementioned categories, but possess potential weaknesses, are designated “special mention.” Management estimates the amount of loan losses for groups of loans by applying quantitative loss factors to loan segments at the risk rating level, and applying qualitative adjustments to each loan segment at the portfolio level. Quantitative loss factors give consideration to historical loss experience by loan type based upon an appropriate look back period and adjusted for a loss emergence period. Qualitative adjustments give consideration to other qualitative or environmental factors such as trends and levels of delinquencies, impaired loans, charge-offs, recoveries and loan volumes, as well as national and local economic trends and conditions. Qualitative adjustments reflect risks in the loan portfolio not captured by the quantitative loss factors and, as such, are evaluated from a risk level perspective relative to the risk levels present over the look back period. The reserves resulting from the application of both of these sets of loss factors are combined to arrive at the allowance for loan losses. When the Bank classifies one or more assets, or portions thereof, as “substandard” or “doubtful,” the Bank may establish a specific allowance for loan losses in an amount deemed prudent by management. When the Bank classifies one or more assets, or portions thereof, as “loss,” the Bank is required either to establish a specific allowance for losses equal to 100% of the amount of the asset so classified or to charge-off such amount. The Bank’s determination as to the classification of assets and the amount of the valuation allowances is subject to review by the FDIC and the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance, each of which can require the establishment of additional general or specific loss allowances. The FDIC, in conjunction with the other federal banking agencies, issued an interagency policy statement on the allowance for loan and lease losses. The policy statement provides guidance for financial institutions on both the responsibilities of the board of directors and management for the maintenance of adequate allowances, and guidance for banking agency examiners to use in determining the adequacy of general valuation allowances. Generally, the policy statement reaffirms that institutions should have effective loan review systems and controls to identify, monitor and address asset quality problems; that loans deemed uncollectible are promptly charged off; and that the institution’s process for determining an adequate level for its valuation allowance is based on a comprehensive, adequately documented, and consistently applied analysis of the institution’s loan and lease portfolio. While management believes that on the basis of information currently available to it, the allowance for loans losses is adequate as of December 31, 2015, actual losses are dependent upon future events and, as such, further additions to the level of allowances for loan losses may become necessary. PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART I Item 1 Business Loans are classified in accordance with the risk rating system described previously. At December 31, 2015, $77.8 million of loans were classified as “substandard,” which consisted of $20.7 million in commercial and multi-family mortgage loans, $38.7 million in commercial loans, $12.0 million in residential loans, $2.4 million in construction loans and $4.1 million in consumer loans. At that same date, loans classified as “doubtful” totaled $8,000, which consisted of one commercial loan. There were no loans classified as “loss” at December 31, 2015. As of December 31, 2015, $113.5 million of loans were designated “special mention.” The following table sets forth delinquencies in the loan portfolio as of the dates indicated. At December 31, 2015 At December 31, 2014 At December 31, 2013 60-89 Days 90 Days or More 60-89 Days 90 Days or More 60-89 Days 90 Days or More Number of Loans Principal Balance of Loans Number of Loans Principal Balance of Loans Number of Loans Principal Balance of Loans Number of Loans Principal Balance of Loans Number of Loans Principal Balance of Loans Number of Loans Principal Balance of Loans 29 $ 5,434 71 $ 12,031 27 $ 4,331 86 $ 17,222 23 $ 5,062 116 $ 23,011 1 1 — 31 4 19 543 506 — 6,483 801 1,194 8 2 1 82 26 50 1,263 741 2,351 16,386 5,812 4,054 1 — — 28 8 28 54 $ 8,478 158 $ 26,252 64 $ 30 — — 4,361 371 2,509 7,241 13 1 — 19,107 321 — 100 36,650 19 42 5,031 3,724 1 — — 24 3 23 161 $ 45,405 50 $ 318 — — 5,380 77 2,194 7,651 12 2 — 6,189 403 — 130 29,603 23 49 9,722 3,819 202 $ 43,144 (Dollars in thousands) Residential mortgage loans Commercial mortgage loans Multi-family mortgage loans Construction loans Total mortgage loans Commercial loans Consumer loans Total loans Non-Accrual Loans and Non-Performing Assets. The following table sets forth information regarding non-accrual loans and other non-performing assets. At December 31, 2015, there were 21 TDRs totaling $18.0 million that were classified as non-accrual, compared to 20 non-accrual TDRs which totaled $26.9 million at December 31, 2014. Loans are generally placed on non-accrual status when they become 90 days or more past due or if they have been identified as presenting uncertainty with respect to the collectability of interest or principal. (Dollars in thousands) Non-accruing loans: Residential mortgage loans Commercial mortgage loans Multi-family mortgage loans Construction loans Commercial loans Consumer loans Total non-accruing loans Accruing loans - 90 days or more delinquent Total non-performing loans Foreclosed assets Total non-performing assets Total non-performing assets as a percentage of total assets Total non-performing loans to total loans $ 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 At December 31, $ 12,031 $ 17,222 $ 23,011 $ 29,293 $ 1,263 742 2,351 23,875 4,109 44,371 165 44,536 10,546 55,082 $ 20,026 322 — 12,342 3,944 53,856 — 53,856 5,098 58,954 $ 18,662 403 8,448 22,228 3,928 76,680 — 76,680 5,486 82,166 $ 29,072 412 8,896 25,467 5,850 98,990 — 98,990 12,473 111,463 $ 40,386 29,522 997 11,018 32,093 8,533 122,549 — 122,549 12,802 135,351 0.62% 0.68% 0.69% 0.88% 1.10% 1.48% 1.53% 2.02% 1.91% 2.63% Non-performing commercial mortgage loans decreased $18.8 million to $1.3 million at December 31, 2015, from $20.0 million at December 31, 2014. At December 31, 2015, the Company held 8 non-performing commercial mortgage loans. The largest non-performing commercial mortgage loan was a $609,000 loan secured by a first mortgage on a mixed-use property located in Franklin Township, New Jersey. The loan is presently in default. There is no contractual commitment to advance additional funds to this borrower. Non-performing commercial loans increased $11.5 million, to $23.9 million at December 31, 2015, from $12.3 million at December 31, 2014. Non-performing commercial loans at December 31, 2015 consisted of 27 loans. The largest non-performing commercial loan relationship consisted of four loans to a health and fitness club with total outstanding balances of $6.8 million at December 31, 2015. All of the loans are secured by liens on a commercial property. The loans are presently in default. 11 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART I Item 1 Business Non-performing constructions loans amounted to $2.4 million at December 31, 2015. Non-performing construction loans consisted of a single loan to a health and fitness club, which combined with four non-performing commercial loans comprises a $9.2 million loan relationship with this borrower. This non-performing construction loan is presently in default. There were no non-performing construction loans at December 31, 2014. Non-performing residential mortgage loans decreased $5.2 million to $12.0 million at December 31, 2015, from $17.2 million at December 31, 2014. Gross charge-offs of residential loans were $1.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. At December 31, 2015, the Company held $10.5 million of foreclosed assets, compared with $5.1 million at December 31, 2014. Foreclosed assets at December 31, 2015 are carried at fair value based on recent appraisals and valuation estimates, less estimated selling costs. Foreclosed assets consisted of $5.2 million of residential properties, $5.1 million of commercial real estate, and $274,000 of marine vessels at December 31, 2015. Non-performing assets totaled $55.1 million, or 0.62% of total assets at December 31, 2015, compared to $59.0 million, or 0.69% of total assets at December 31, 2014. If the non-accrual loans had performed in accordance with their original terms, interest income would have increased by $1.2 million during the year ended December 31, 2015. The amount of cash basis interest income that was recognized on impaired loans during the year ended December 31, 2015 was not material. Allowance for Loan Losses. The allowance for loan losses is a valuation account that reflects an evaluation of the probable losses in the loan portfolio. The allowance for loan losses is maintained through provisions for loan losses that are charged to income. Charge-offs against the allowance for loan losses are taken on loans where it is determined the collection of loan principal is unlikely. Recoveries made on loans that have been charged-off are credited to the allowance for loan losses. Management’s evaluation of the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses includes the review of all loans on which the collectability of principal may not be reasonably assured. For residential mortgage and consumer loans, this is determined primarily by delinquency and collateral values. For commercial real estate and commercial loans, an extensive review of financial performance, payment history and collateral values is conducted on a quarterly basis. As part of the evaluation of the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses, each quarter management prepares an analysis that categorizes the entire loan portfolio by certain risk characteristics such as loan type (residential mortgage, commercial mortgage, construction, commercial, etc.) and loan risk rating. When assigning a risk rating to a loan, management utilizes the Bank’s internal nine-point risk rating system. Loans deemed to be “acceptable quality” are rated 1 through 4, with a rating of 1 established for loans with minimal risk. Loans that are deemed to be of “questionable quality” are rated 5 (watch) or 6 (special mention). Loans with adverse classifications (substandard, doubtful or loss) are rated 7, 8 or 9, respectively. Commercial mortgage, commercial, multi-family and construction loans are rated individually, and each lending officer is responsible for risk rating loans in his or her portfolio. These risk ratings are then reviewed by the department manager and/or the Chief Lending Officer and by the Credit Administration Department. The risk ratings for loans requiring Credit Committee approval are periodically reviewed by 12 the Credit Committee in the credit approval or renewal process. The risk ratings are also confirmed through periodic loan review examinations, which are currently performed by an independent third party. Reports by the independent third party are presented directly to the Audit and Risk Committees of the Board of Directors. Each quarter, the lending groups prepare individual Credit Risk Management Reports for the Credit Administration Department. These reports review all commercial loans and commercial mortgage loans that have been determined to involve above-average risk (risk rating of 5 or worse). The Credit Risk Management Reports contain the reason for the risk rating assigned to each loan, status of the loan and any current developments. These reports are submitted to a committee chaired by the Chief Credit Officer. Each loan officer reviews the loan and the corresponding Credit Risk Management Report with the committee and the risk rating is evaluated for appropriateness. Management estimates the amount of loan losses for groups of loans by applying quantitative loss factors to loan segments at the risk rating level, and applying qualitative adjustments to each loan segment at the portfolio level. Quantitative loss factors give consideration to historical loss experience by loan type based upon an appropriate look back period and adjusted for a loss emergence period; these factors are evaluated at least annually. The most recent periodic review and recalculation of quantitative loss factors was completed in the third quarter of 2015 using historical loss data through June 30, 2015 and was applied effective September 30, 2015. Qualitative adjustments give consideration to other qualitative or environmental factors such as: •• levels of and trends in delinquencies and impaired loans; •• levels of and trends in charge-offs and recoveries; •• trends in volume and terms of loans; •• effects of any changes in lending policies, procedures and practices; •• changes in the quality or results of the Bank’s loan review system; •• experience, ability, and depth of lending management and other relevant staff; •• national and local economic trends and conditions; •• industry conditions; •• effects of changes in credit concentration; and •• changes in collateral values. Qualitative adjustments reflect risks in the loan portfolio not captured by the quantitative loss factors and, as such, are evaluated from a risk level perspective relative to the risk levels present over the look back period; qualitative adjustments are recalibrated at least annually and evaluated at least quarterly. The range of adjustments to historical loss rates applicable to qualitative factors were updated in the third quarter of 2015 in conjunction with the review and recalculation of quantitative loss factors. The reserves resulting from the application of both of these sets of loss factors are combined to arrive at the general allowance for loan losses. The reserve factors applied to each loan risk rating are inherently subjective in nature. Reserve factors are assigned to each of the risk rating categories. This methodology permits adjustments to the allowance for loan losses in the event that, in management’s judgment, significant conditions impacting the credit quality and collectability of the loan portfolio as of the evaluation date are not otherwise adequately reflected in the analysis. PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART I Item 1 Business The provision for loan losses is established after considering the allowance for loan loss analysis, the amount of the allowance for loan losses in relation to the total loan balance, loan portfolio growth, loan portfolio composition, loan delinquency trends and peer group analysis. As a result of this process, management may establish an unallocated portion of the allowance for loan losses. The unallocated portion of the allowance for loan losses accounts for the inherent impression of the overall loss estimation process, including the periodic updating of appraisals, commercial loan risk ratings, and economic uncertainty that may not be fully captured in the Bank’s loss history or the qualitative factors. Management believes the primary risks inherent in the portfolio are a decline in the economy, generally, a decline in real estate market values, rising unemployment or a protracted period of unemployment at elevated levels, increasing vacancy rates in commercial investment properties and possible increases in interest rates in the absence of economic improvement. Any one or a combination of these events may adversely affect borrowers’ ability to repay the loans, resulting in increased delinquencies, loan losses and future levels of provisions. Accordingly, the Company has provided for loan losses at the current level to address the current risk in its loan portfolio. Management considers it important to maintain the ratio of the allowance for loan losses to total loans at an acceptable level given current economic conditions, interest rates and the composition of the portfolio. Management will continue to review the entire loan portfolio to determine the extent, if any, to which further additional loan loss provisions may be deemed necessary. The allowance for loan losses is maintained at a level that represents management’s best estimate of probable losses related to specifically identified loans as well as probable losses inherent in the remaining loan portfolio. There can be no assurance that the allowance for loan losses will be adequate to cover all losses that may in fact be realized in the future or that additional provisions for loan losses will not be required. Analysis of the Allowance for Loan Losses. The following table sets forth the analysis of the allowance for loan losses for the periods indicated. (Dollars in thousands) Balance at beginning of period Charge offs: Residential mortgage loans Commercial mortgage loans Multi-family mortgage loans Construction loans Commercial loans Consumer loans Total Recoveries: Residential mortgage loans Commercial mortgage loans Multi-family mortgage loans Construction loans Commercial loans Consumer loans Total Net charge-offs Provision for loan losses Balance at end of period 2015 Years Ended December 31, 2013 2014 2012 $ 61,734 $ 64,664 $ 70,348 $ 74,351 1,296 1,086 105 — 2,863 3,478 8,828 102 86 2 57 2,413 1,508 4,168 4,660 4,350 3,184 705 4 15 4,449 2,515 10,872 73 131 1 80 1,776 1,231 3,292 7,580 4,650 3,900 2,882 — 234 3,686 3,704 14,406 160 104 — 869 1,075 1,014 3,222 11,184 5,500 $ 61,424 $ 61,734 $ 64,664 $ 4,622 3,253 19 238 12,259 3,516 23,907 105 56 1 — 2,771 971 3,904 20,003 16,000 70,348 Ratio of net charge-offs to average loans outstanding during the period Allowance for loan losses to total loans 0.07% 0.94% 0.13% 1.01% Allowance for loan losses to non-performing loans 137.92% 114.63% 0.22% 1.24% 84.33% 0.43% 1.43% 71.07% 13 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART I Item 1 Business Allocation of Allowance for Loan Losses. The following table sets forth the allocation of the allowance for loan losses by loan category for the periods indicated. This allocation is based on management’s assessment, as of a given point in time, of the risk characteristics of each of the component parts of the total loan portfolio and is subject to changes as and when the risk factors of each such component part change. The allocation is neither indicative of the specific amounts or the loan categories in which future charge-offs may be taken, nor is it an indicator of future loss trends. The allocation of the allowance to each category does not restrict the use of the allowance to absorb losses in any category. 2015 2014 At December 31, 2013 2012 2011 Amount of Allowance for Loan Losses Percent of Loans in Each Category to Total Loans Amount of Allowance for Loan Losses Percent of Loans in Each Category to Total Loans Amount of Allowance for Loan Losses Percent of Loans in Each Category to Total Loans Amount of Allowance for Loan Losses Percent of Loans in Each Category to Total Loans Amount of Allowance for Loan Losses Percent of Loans in Each Category to Total Loans $ 5,110 19.20% $ 4,805 20.58 % $ 5,500 22.60% $ 6,053 25.79% $ 5,873 28.14% 12,798 26.25 16,645 27.86 16,404 26.96 21,639 27.52 22,308 26.95 7,841 6,345 25,829 3,501 — 18.88 5.06 21.94 8.67 — 6,258 4,269 24,381 4,881 495 17.12 3.62 20.76 10.06 — 5,933 6,307 24,107 4,929 1,484 17.87 3.52 17.93 11.12 — 7,163 3,107 20,315 5,224 6,847 14.76 2.45 17.67 11.81 — 6,933 4,329 25,381 5,515 4,012 12.13 2.47 18.25 12.06 — $ 61,424 100.00% $ 61,734 100.00 % $ 64,664 100.00% $ 70,348 100.00% $ 74,351 100.00% (Dollars in thousands) Residential mortgage loans Commercial mortgage loans Multi-family mortgage loans Construction loans Commercial loans Consumer loans Unallocated Total (1) For the year ended December 31, 2015, the Company enhanced its allowance for loan losses process and allocated the previously unallocated allowance using both qualitative and quantitative factors. Investment Activities General. The Board of Directors annually approves the Investment Policy for the Bank and the Company. The Chief Financial Officer and the Treasurer are authorized by the Board to implement the Investment Policy and establish investment strategies. Each of the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Assistant Treasurer is authorized to make investment decisions consistent with the Investment Policy. Investment transactions for the Bank are reported to the Board of Directors of the Bank on a monthly basis. The Investment Policy is designed to generate a favorable rate of return, consistent with established guidelines for liquidity, safety, duration and diversification, and to complement the lending activities of the Bank. Investment decisions are made in accordance with the policy and are based on credit quality, interest rate risk, balance sheet composition, market expectations, liquidity, income and collateral needs. The Investment Policy does not currently permit the purchase of any securities that are below investment grade. The investment strategy is to maximize the return on the investment portfolio consistent with the Investment Policy. The investment strategy considers the Bank’s and the Company’s interest rate risk position as well as liquidity, loan demand and other factors. Acceptable investment securities include U.S. Treasury and Agency obligations, collateralized mortgage obligations (“CMOs”), corporate debt obligations, municipal bonds, mortgage-backed securities, commercial paper, mutual funds, bankers’ acceptances and Federal funds. Securities purchased for the investment portfolio require a minimum credit rating of “A” by Moody’s or Standard & Poor’s at the time of purchase. 14 Securities in the investment portfolio are classified as held to maturity, available for sale or held for trading. Securities that are classified as held to maturity are securities that the Bank or the Company has the intent and ability to hold until their contractual maturity date and are reported at cost. Securities that are classified as available for sale are reported at fair value. Available for sale securities include U.S. Treasury and Agency obligations, U.S. Agency and privately- issued CMOs, corporate debt obligations and equities. Sales of securities may occur from time to time in response to changes in market rates and liquidity needs and to facilitate balance sheet reallocation to effectively manage interest rate risk. At the present time, there are no securities that are classified as held for trading. Management conducts a periodic review and evaluation of the securities portfolio to determine if any securities with a market value below book value were other-than-temporarily impaired. If such an impairment were deemed other-than-temporary, management would measure the total credit-related component of the unrealized loss, and the Company would recognize that portion of the loss as a charge to current period earnings. The remaining portion of the unrealized loss would be recognized as an adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive income. The fair value of the securities portfolio is significantly affected by changes in interest rates. In general, as interest rates rise, the fair value of fixed-rate securities decreases and as interest rates fall, the fair value of fixed-rate securities increases. The market for non-investment grade, privately issued mortgage-backed securities remains illiquid and prices have not appreciated despite favorable movements in interest rates. The Company evaluates if it has the intent to sell these securities and if it is more likely than not that the Company would be required to sell the securities before the anticipated recovery. PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART I Item 1 Business CMOs are a type of debt security issued by a special-purpose entity that aggregates pools of mortgages and mortgage-related securities and creates different classes of CMO securities with varying maturities and amortization schedules as well as a residual interest with each class possessing different risk characteristics. In contrast to pass-through mortgage-backed securities from which cash flow is received (and prepayment risk is shared) pro rata by all securities holders, the cash flow from the mortgages or mortgage-related securities underlying CMOs is paid in accordance with predetermined priority to investors holding various tranches of such securities or obligations. A particular tranche of CMOs may therefore carry prepayment risk that differs from that of both the underlying collateral and other tranches. Accordingly, CMOs attempt to moderate risks associated with conventional mortgage-related securities resulting from unexpected prepayment activity. In declining interest rate environments, the Bank attempts to purchase CMOs with principal lock-out periods, reducing prepayment risk in the investment portfolio. During rising interest rate periods, the Bank’s strategy is to purchase CMOs that are receiving principal payments that can be reinvested at higher current yields. Investments in CMOs involve a risk that actual prepayments will differ from those estimated in pricing the security, which may result in adjustments to the net yield on such securities. Additionally, the fair value of such securities may be adversely affected by changes in the market interest rates. Management believes these securities may represent attractive alternatives relative to other investments due to the wide variety of maturity, repayment and interest rate options available. At December 31, 2015, the Bank held $3.7 million in privately-issued CMOs in the investment portfolio. The Bank and the Company do not invest in collateralized debt obligations, mortgage-related securities secured by sub-prime loans, or any preferred equity securities. Amortized Cost and Fair Value of Securities. The following table sets forth certain information regarding the amortized cost and fair values of the Company’s securities as of the dates indicated. (Dollars in thousands) Held to Maturity: 2015 At December 31, 2014 2013 Amortized Cost Fair Value Amortized Cost Fair Value Amortized Cost Fair Value Mortgage-backed securities $ 1,597 $ 1,658 $ 2,816 $ 2,939 $ 5,273 $ FHLB obligations FHLMC obligations FNMA obligations FFCB obligations State and municipal obligations Corporate obligations 500 500 3,096 — 458,062 9,929 498 500 3,099 — 472,661 9,915 1,050 1,700 3,413 650 449,410 10,489 1,048 1,696 3,414 652 462,238 10,486 895 1,900 3,909 819 334,750 9,954 5,520 893 1,876 3,883 818 332,987 9,936 Total held-to-maturity $ 473,684 $ 488,331 $ 469,528 $ 482,473 $ 357,500 $ 355,913 Available for Sale: U.S Treasury obligations Mortgage-backed securities FHLMC obligations FHLB obligations FNMA obligations FFCB obligations State and municipal obligations Corporate obligations Equity securities 8,006 857,430 20,101 30,298 31,997 — 4,193 5,516 397 8,004 863,861 20,059 30,273 31,998 — 4,308 5,512 519 8,016 944,796 32,360 — 16,398 46,113 6,855 6,526 397 8,016 957,257 32,351 — 16,472 46,253 7,002 6,520 524 — 1,060,013 — 1,054,974 47,713 12,163 33,347 — 8,739 — 357 47,709 12,178 33,529 — 8,758 — 446 Total available for sale $ 957,938 $ 964,534 $ 1,061,461 $ 1,074,395 $ 1,162,332 $ 1,157,594 Average expected life of securities(1) (1) Average expected life is based on prepayment assumptions utilizing prevailing interest rates as of the reporting dates and excludes equity securities. 4.22 years 4.40 years 4.55 years The aggregate carrying values and fair values of securities by issuer, where the aggregate book value of such securities exceeds ten percent of stockholders’ equity are as follows (in thousands): At December 31, 2015: FNMA FHLMC Amortized Cost Fair Value $ 464,961 $ 370,798 467,039 374,169 15 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART I Item 1 Business The following table sets forth certain information regarding the carrying value, weighted average yields and contractual maturities of the Company’s debt securities portfolio as of December 31, 2015. No tax equivalent adjustments were made to the weighted average yields. Amounts are shown at amortized cost for held to maturity securities and at fair value for available for sale securities. One Year or Less Carrying Value Weighted Average Yield(1) More Than One Year to Five Years Weighted Average Yield(1) Carrying Value At December 31, 2015 More Than Five Years to Ten Years Weighted Average Yield(1) Carrying Value After Ten Years Total Carrying Value Weighted Average Yield(1) Carrying Value Weighted Average Yield(1) $ — — 1,761 —% $ — 2.24 1,089 4,096 8,168 4.10% $ 1.18 1.99 508 — — 5.40% $ — — — — — —% $ — — 1,597 4,096 9,929 4.51 % 1.18 2.03 7,321 3.27 40,361 3.52 218,488 2.82 191,892 2.76 458,062 2.86 $ 9,082 3.07% $ 53,714 3.12% $ 218,996 2.83% $ 191,892 2.76% $ 473,684 2.84 % $ — —% $ 8,004 1.06% $ — —% $ — —% $ 8,004 1.06 % 426 3.86% 426 — 25,133 1,500 — 0.73 0.72 23,245 57,197 992 3.91 2.46 1.02 1.48 681 73,677 — 3,020 2.50 3.21 — 2.99 2,775 766,939 — — 3.01 2.46 — — 4,308 863,861 82,330 5,512 3.10 2.52 0.93 — $ 27,059 0.78% $ 89,864 1.41% $ 77,378 3.19% $ 769,714 2.46% $ 964,015 2.35 % (Dollars in thousands) Held to Maturity: Mortgage-backed securities Agency obligations Corporate obligations State and municipal obligations Total held to maturity Available for Sale: U.S. Treasury obligations State and municipal obligations Mortgage-backed securities Agency obligations Corporate obligations Total available for sale(2) (1) Yields are not tax equivalent. (2) Totals exclude $519,000 of available for sale equity securities at fair value. Sources of Funds General. Primary sources of funds consist of principal and interest cash flows received from loans and mortgage-backed securities, contractual maturities on investments, deposits, Federal Home Loan Bank of New York (“FHLBNY”) advances and proceeds from sales of loans and investments. These sources of funds are used for lending, investing and general corporate purposes, including acquisitions and common stock repurchases. Deposits. The Bank offers a variety of deposits for retail and business accounts. Deposit products include savings accounts, checking accounts, interest-bearing checking accounts, money market deposit accounts and certificate of deposit accounts at varying interest rates and terms. The Bank also offers IRA and KEOGH accounts. Business customers are offered several checking account and savings plans, cash management services, remote deposit capture services, payroll origination services, escrow account management and business credit cards. The Bank focuses on relationship banking for retail and business customers to enhance the customer experience. Deposit activity is influenced by state and local economic conditions, changes in interest rates, internal pricing decisions and competition. Deposits are primarily obtained from the areas surrounding the Bank’s branch locations. To attract and retain deposits, the Bank offers competitive rates, quality customer service and a wide variety of products and services that meet customers’ needs, including online and mobile banking. Deposit pricing strategy is monitored monthly by the management Asset/Liability Committee and Pricing Committee. Deposit pricing is set weekly by the Bank’s Treasury Department. When setting deposit pricing, the Bank considers competitive market rates, FHLBNY advance rates and rates on other sources of funds. Core deposits, defined as savings accounts, interest and non- interest bearing checking accounts and money market deposit accounts represented 87.5% of total deposits at December 31, 2015 and 85.7% of total deposits at December 31, 2014. As of December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, time deposits maturing in less than one year amounted to $499.2 million and $568.5 million, respectively. 16 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART I Item 1 Business The following table indicates the amount of certificates of deposit by time remaining until maturity as of December 31, 2015. (Dollars in thousands) Certificates of deposit of $100,000 or more Certificates of deposit less than $100,000 Total certificates of deposit Maturity 3 Months or Less Over 3 to 6 Months Over 6 to 12 Months Over 12 Months Total $ $ 116,296 $ 42,594 $ 68,893 $ 96,432 $ 324,215 100,806 82,189 88,443 144,068 415,506 217,102 $ 124,783 $ 157,336 $ 240,500 $ 739,721 Certificates of Deposit Maturities. The following table sets forth certain information regarding certificates of deposit. Less Than One Year (Dollars in thousands) Rate: Period to Maturity from December 31, 2015 One to Two Years Three to Four Years Two to Three Years Four to Five Years At December 31, Five Years or More 2015 2014 2013 0.00 to 0.99% $ 444,551 $ 43,386 $ 9,027 $ — $ 54 $ 309 $ 497,327 $ 536,945 $ 524,311 1.00 to 2.00% 2.01 to 3.00% 3.01 to 4.00% 4.01 to 5.00% 5.01 to 6.00% 6.01 to 7.00% Over 7.01% 39,965 44,518 35,047 53,575 52,614 737 226,456 175,010 120,750 14,288 23 379 9 6 — 89 — 113 293 — 34 — — — — — — — — — — — — 700 — — — — — 4 — — — — — 15,081 23 492 302 6 34 92,603 19,899 781 413 7 31 111,898 45,845 3,849 31 — 70 Total $ 499,221 $ 88,433 $ 44,074 $ 53,575 $ 53,368 $ 1,050 $ 739,721 $ 825,689 $ 806,754 Borrowed Funds. At December 31, 2015, the Bank had $1.71 billion of borrowed funds. Borrowed funds consist primarily of FHLBNY advances and repurchase agreements. Repurchase agreements are contracts for the sale of securities owned or borrowed by the Bank, with an agreement to repurchase those securities at an agreed-upon price and date. The Bank uses wholesale repurchase agreements, as well as retail repurchase agreements as an investment vehicle for its commercial sweep checking product. Bank policies limit the use of repurchase agreements to collateral consisting of U.S. Treasury obligations, U.S. government agency obligations or mortgage- related securities. As a member of the FHLBNY, the Bank is eligible to obtain advances upon the security of the FHLBNY common stock owned and certain residential mortgage loans, provided certain standards related to credit-worthiness have been met. FHLBNY advances are available pursuant to several credit programs, each of which has its own interest rate and range of maturities. The following table sets forth the maximum month-end balance and average balance of FHLBNY advances and securities sold under agreements to repurchase for the periods indicated. (Dollars in thousands) Maximum Balance: FHLBNY advances FHLBNY line of credit Securities sold under agreements to repurchase Average Balance: FHLBNY advances FHLBNY line of credit Securities sold under agreements to repurchase Weighted Average Interest Rate: FHLBNY advances FHLBNY line of credit Securities sold under agreements to repurchase Years Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 $ 1,363,122 160,000 346,361 $ 1,190,280 180,000 255,633 $ 1,249,193 80,847 273,934 989,245 104,121 245,260 774,557 183,000 294,035 599,991 48,784 260,004 1.84% 0.40 1.49 2.08% 0.37 1.72 2.34% 0.38 1.74 17 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART I Item 1 Business The following table sets forth certain information as to borrowings at the dates indicated. (Dollars in thousands) FHLBNY advances FHLBNY line of credit Securities sold under repurchase agreements Total borrowed funds Weighted average interest rate of FHLBNY advances Weighted average interest rate of FHLBNY line of credit Weighted average interest rate of securities sold under agreements to repurchase At December 31, 2015 2014 1,350,282 1,190,280 96,000 261,350 73,000 246,571 2013 774,557 183,000 246,322 $ 1,707,632 $ 1,509,851 $ 1,203,879 1.77% 0.49% 1.47% 1.88% 0.32% 1.69% 2.17% 0.40% 1.69% Wealth Management Services As part of the Company’s strategy to increase fee related income, the Company’s wholly owned subsidiary, Beacon Trust Company (“Beacon”) is engaged in providing wealth management and asset management services. In addition to its trust and estate administration services, Beacon is also a provider of asset management services which are often introduced to existing clients through the Bank’s extensive branch network. Beacon offers a full range of asset management services to individuals, municipalities, non-profits, corporations and pension funds. These services include investment management, asset allocation, trust and fiduciary services, financial and tax planning, family office services, estate settlement services and custody. Beacon focuses on delivering personalized investment strategies based on the client’s risk profile. These strategies are focused on maximizing clients’ investment returns, while minimizing expenses. Most of the fee income generated by Beacon is based on assets under management. On October 31, 2014, Beacon acquired the fiduciary account relationships of a bank in Suffolk County, New York. On April 1, 2015, Beacon completed the acquisition of certain assets and liabilities of The MDE Group, Inc. and the equity interests of Acertus Capital Management, LLC, both Morristown, New Jersey-based registered investment advisers under common ownership. Subsidiary Activities PFS Insurance Services, Inc., formerly Provident Investment Services, Inc., is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Bank, and a New Jersey licensed insurance producer that sells insurance and investment products, including annuities to customers through a third-party networking arrangement. Dudley Investment Corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Bank which operates as a New Jersey Investment Company. Dudley Investment Corporation owns all of the outstanding common stock of Gregory Investment Corporation. Gregory Investment Corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary of Dudley Investment Corporation. Gregory Investment Corporation operates as a Delaware Investment Company. Gregory Investment Corporation owns all of the outstanding common stock of PSB Funding Corporation. PSB Funding Corporation is a majority owned subsidiary of Gregory Investment Corporation. It was established as a New Jersey corporation to engage in the business of a real estate investment trust for the purpose of acquiring mortgage loans and other real estate related assets from the Bank. Bergen Avenue Realty, LLC, a New Jersey limited liability company is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Bank formed to manage and sell real estate acquired through foreclosure. At December 31, 2015, Bergen Avenue Realty, LLC had total assets of $4.7 million. Bergen Avenue Realty PA, LLC, a Pennsylvania limited liability company is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Bank formed to manage and sell real estate acquired through foreclosure located in Pennsylvania. At December 31, 2015, Bergen Avenue Realty PA, LLC had total assets of $195,500. Beacon Trust Company, a New Jersey limited purpose trust company, is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Bank. Beacon Investment Advisory Services, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Beacon Trust Company, incorporated under Delaware law and is a registered investment advisor that conducts the business acquired from The MDE Group, Inc. Acertus Capital Management, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company is a wholly owned subsidiary of Beacon Trust Company and is a registered investment advisor that manages two private funds and serves as a sub-advisor to a mutual fund. 18 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART I Item 1 Business Team Capital Service Co., LLC is an inactive New Jersey limited liability company which became a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company by way of the Team Capital Bank acquisition. Team Capital NJ Investment Co. is an inactive New Jersey corporation which became a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company by way of the Team Capital Bank acquisition. Personnel As of December 31, 2015, the Company had 951 full-time and 113 part-time employees. None of the Company’s employees are represented by a collective bargaining group. The Company believes its working relationship with its employees is good. Regulation and Supervision General As a bank holding company controlling the Bank, the Company is subject to the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended (“BHCA”), and the rules and regulations of the Federal Reserve Board under the BHCA. The Company is also subject to the provisions of the New Jersey Banking Act of 1948 (the “New Jersey Banking Act”) and the regulations of the Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance (“Commissioner”) under the New Jersey Banking Act applicable to bank holding companies. The Company and the Bank are required to file reports with, and otherwise comply with the rules and regulations of the Federal Reserve Board and the Commissioner. The Federal Reserve Board and the Commissioner conduct periodic examinations to assess the Company’s compliance with various regulatory requirements. The Company files certain reports with, and otherwise complies with, the rules and regulations of the SEC under the federal securities laws and the listing requirements of the New York Stock Exchange. The Bank is a New Jersey chartered savings bank, and its deposit accounts are insured up to applicable limits by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”). The Bank is subject to extensive regulation, examination and supervision by the Commissioner as the issuer of its charter, and by the FDIC as its deposit insurer. The Bank files reports with the Commissioner and the FDIC concerning its activities and financial condition, and it must obtain regulatory approval prior to entering into certain transactions, such as mergers with, or acquisitions of, other depository institutions and opening or acquiring branch offices. The Commissioner and the FDIC conduct periodic examinations to assess the Bank’s compliance with various regulatory requirements. This regulation and supervision establishes a comprehensive framework of activities in which a savings bank can engage and is intended primarily for the protection of the deposit insurance fund and depositors. The regulatory structure also gives the regulatory authorities extensive discretion in connection with their supervisory and enforcement activities and examination policies, including policies with respect to the classification of assets and the establishment of adequate loan loss reserves for regulatory purposes. Any change in applicable laws and regulations, whether by the Commissioner, the FDIC, the Federal Reserve Board or through legislation, could have a material adverse impact on the Company and the Bank and their operations. The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010 (the “Dodd-Frank Act”) made extensive changes in the regulation of depository institutions and their holding companies. Certain provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act are impacting the Company and the Bank. For example, the Dodd-Frank Act created the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau as an independent bureau of the Federal Reserve Board. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has assumed responsibility for the implementation of the federal financial consumer protection and fair lending laws and regulations and has the authority to impose new requirements. However, institutions with less than $10 billion in assets, such as the Bank, continue to be examined for compliance with consumer protection and fair lending laws and regulations by, and are subject to the enforcement authority of their principal regulator, although the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has back-up authority to examine and enforce consumer protection laws against all institutions, including those with less than $10 billion in assets. The material laws and regulations applicable to the Company and the Bank are summarized below and elsewhere in the Form 10-K. New Jersey Banking Regulation Activity Powers. The Bank derives its lending, investment and other activity powers primarily from the applicable provisions of the New Jersey Banking Act and its related regulations. Under these laws and regulations, savings banks, including the Bank, generally may, subject to certain limits, invest in: real estate mortgages; (1) (2) consumer and commercial loans; (3) specific types of debt securities, including certain corporate debt securities and obligations of federal, state and local governments and agencies; (4) certain types of corporate equity securities; and (5) certain other assets. 19 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART I Item 1 Business A savings bank may also invest pursuant to a “leeway” power that permits investments not otherwise permitted by the New Jersey Banking Act, subject to certain restrictions imposed by the FDIC. “Leeway” investments must comply with a number of limitations on the individual and aggregate amounts of “leeway” investments. A savings bank may also exercise trust powers upon the approval of the Commissioner. New Jersey savings banks may exercise those powers, rights, benefits or privileges authorized for national banks or out-of-state banks or for federal or out-of-state savings banks or savings associations, provided that before exercising any such power, right, benefit or privilege, prior approval by the Commissioner by regulation or by specific authorization is required. The exercise of these lending, investment and activity powers is limited by federal law and the related regulations. See “Federal Banking Regulation—Activity Restrictions on State-Chartered Bank” below. Loans-to-One-Borrower Limitations. With certain specified exceptions, a New Jersey chartered savings bank may not make loans or extend credit to a single borrower and to entities related to the borrower in an aggregate amount that would exceed 15% of the bank’s capital funds. A New Jersey chartered savings bank may lend an additional 10% of the bank’s capital funds if secured by collateral meeting the requirements of the New Jersey Banking Act. The Bank currently complies with applicable loans-to-one- borrower limitations. Federal Banking Regulation Capital Requirements. Federal regulations require federally insured depository institutions to meet several minimum capital standards: a common equity Tier 1 capital to risk-based assets ratio of 4.5%, a Tier 1 capital to risk-based assets ratio of 6.0%, a total capital to risk-based assets of 8.0%, and a 4.0% Tier 1 capital to total assets leverage ratio. These capital requirements are the result of a final rule implementing recommendations of the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision and certain requirements of the Dodd-Frank Act, and were effective January 1, 2015. In determining the amount of risk-weighted assets for purposes of calculating risk-based capital ratios, all assets, including certain off-balance sheet assets (e.g., recourse obligations, direct credit substitutes, residual interests) are multiplied by a risk weight factor assigned by the regulations based on the risks believed inherent in the type of asset. Higher levels of capital are required for asset categories believed to present greater risk. Common equity Tier 1 capital is generally defined as common stockholders’ equity and retained earnings. Tier 1 capital is generally defined as common equity Tier 1 and additional Tier 1 capital. Additional Tier 1 capital includes certain noncumulative perpetual preferred stock and related surplus and minority interests in equity accounts of consolidated subsidiaries. Total capital includes Tier 1 capital (common equity Tier 1 capital plus additional Tier 1 capital) and Tier 2 capital. Tier 2 capital is comprised of capital instruments and related surplus, meeting specified requirements, and may include Dividends. Under the New Jersey Banking Act, a stock savings bank may declare and pay a dividend on its capital stock only to the extent that the payment of the dividend would not impair the capital stock of the savings bank. In addition, a stock savings bank may not pay a dividend unless the savings bank would, after the payment of the dividend, have a surplus of not less than 50% of its capital stock, or the payment of the dividend would not reduce the surplus. Federal law may also limit the amount of dividends that may be paid by the bank. Minimum Capital Requirements. Regulations of the Commissioner impose on New Jersey chartered depository institutions, including the Bank, minimum capital requirements similar to those imposed by the FDIC on insured state banks. At December 31, 2015, the Bank was considered “well capitalized” under FDIC guidelines. Examination and Enforcement. The New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance may examine the Company and the Bank whenever it deems an examination advisable. The Department examines the Bank at least every two years. The Commissioner may order any savings bank to discontinue any violation of law or unsafe or unsound business practice and may direct any director, officer, attorney or employee of a savings bank engaged in an objectionable activity, after the Commissioner has ordered the activity to be terminated, to show cause at a hearing before the Commissioner why such person should not be removed. cumulative preferred stock and long-term perpetual preferred stock, mandatory convertible securities, intermediate preferred stock and subordinated debt. Also included in Tier 2 capital is the allowance for loan and lease losses limited to a maximum of 1.25% of risk-weighted assets and, for institutions that have exercised an opt-out election regarding the treatment of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, up to 45% of net unrealized gains on available-for-sale equity securities with readily determinable fair market values. Calculation of all types of regulatory capital is subject to deductions and adjustments specified in the regulations. In assessing an institution’s capital adequacy, the FDIC takes into consideration, not only these numeric factors, but qualitative factors as well, and has the authority to establish higher capital requirements for individual institutions where deemed necessary. In addition to establishing the minimum regulatory capital requirements, the regulations limit capital distributions and certain discretionary bonus payments to management if the institution does not hold a “capital conservation buffer” consisting of 2.5% of common equity Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted asset above the amount necessary to meet its minimum risk-based capital requirements. The capital conservation buffer requirement is being phased in beginning January 1, 2016 at 0.625% of risk-weighted assets and increasing each year until fully implemented at 2.5% on January 1, 2019. 20 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART I Item 1 Business The following table shows the Bank’s Tier 1 leverage ratio, common equity Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio, Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio, and total risk-based capital ratio, at December 31, 2015: (Dollars in thousands) Tier 1 leverage capital Common equity Tier 1 risk-based capital Tier 1 risk-based capital As of December 31, 2015 Percent of Assets(1) Capital Requirements(1) 8.42% 10.61 10.61 4.00% 4.50 6.00 $ Capital 709,690 709,690 709,690 Total risk-based capital (1) For purposes of calculating regulatory Tier 1 leverage capital, assets are based on adjusted total leverage assets. In calculating common equity Tier 1 risk-based capital, Tier 1 771,268 11.53 8.00 risk-based capital and total risk-based capital, assets are based on total risk-weighted assets. As of December 31, 2015, the Bank was considered “well capitalized” under FDIC guidelines. Activity Restrictions on State-Chartered Banks. Federal law and FDIC regulations generally limit the activities and investments of state-chartered FDIC insured banks and their subsidiaries to those permissible for national banks and their subsidiaries, unless such activities and investments are specifically exempted by law or consented to by the FDIC. Before making a new investment or engaging in a new activity that is not permissible for a national bank or otherwise permissible under federal law or FDIC regulations, an insured bank must seek approval from the FDIC to make such investment or engage in such activity. The FDIC will not approve the activity unless the bank meets its minimum capital requirements and the FDIC determines that the activity does not present a significant risk to the FDIC insurance fund. Certain activities of subsidiaries that are engaged in activities permitted for national banks only through a “financial subsidiary” are subject to additional restrictions. Federal law permits a state-chartered savings bank to engage, through financial subsidiaries, in any activity in which a national bank may engage through a financial subsidiary and on substantially the same terms and conditions. In general, the law permits a national bank that is well-capitalized and well-managed to conduct, through a financial subsidiary, any activity permitted for a financial holding company other than insurance underwriting, insurance investments, real estate investment or development or merchant banking. The total assets of all such financial subsidiaries may not exceed the lesser of 45% of the bank’s total assets or $50 billion. The bank must have policies and procedures to assess the financial subsidiary’s risk and protect the bank from such risk and potential liability, must not consolidate the financial subsidiary’s assets with the bank’s and must exclude from its own assets and equity all equity investments, including retained earnings, in the financial subsidiary. The Bank currently meets all conditions necessary to establish and engage in permitted activities through financial subsidiaries. Federal Home Loan Bank System. The Bank is a member of the FHLB system which consists of twelve regional FHLBs, each subject to supervision and regulation by the Federal Housing Finance Agency (“FHFA”). The FHLB provides a central credit facility primarily for member institutions. As a member of the FHLB of New York, the Bank is required to purchase and hold shares of capital stock in that FHLB in an amount as required by that FHLB’s capital plan and minimum capital requirements. The Bank is in compliance with these requirements. The Bank has received dividends on its FHLBNY stock, although no assurance can be given that these dividends will continue to be paid. For the year ended December 31, 2015, dividends paid by the FHLBNY to the Bank totaled $3.1 million. Deposit Insurance. As a member institution of the FDIC, deposit accounts at the Bank are generally insured up to a maximum of $250,000 for each separately insured depositor. Under the FDIC’s risk-based assessment system, insured institutions are assigned a risk category based on supervisory evaluations, regulatory capital levels and certain other factors. An institution’s assessment rate depends upon the category to which it is assigned, and certain adjustments specified by FDIC regulations. Institutions deemed less risky pay lower assessments. The FDIC may adjust the scale uniformly, except that no adjustment can deviate more than two basis points from the base scale without notice and comment. No institution may pay a dividend if in default of its federal deposit insurance assessment. The Dodd-Frank Act required the FDIC to revise its procedures to base its assessments upon each insured institution’s total assets less tangible equity instead of deposits. The FDIC finalized a rule, effective April 1, 2011, that set the assessment range at 2.5 to 45 basis points of total assets less tangible equity. On February 7, 2011, the FDIC issued a final rule that established a target size for the Deposit Insurance Fund (“DIF”) at 2 percent of insured deposits as mandated by the Dodd-Frank Act. The rule also implements a lower assessment rate schedule when the DIF reaches 1.15 percent of total insured deposits. The FDIC may terminate the insurance of an institution’s deposits upon a finding that the 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 imposed by the FDIC. Management is not aware of any practice, condition or violation that might lead to termination of the Bank’s deposit insurance. Enforcement. The FDIC has extensive enforcement authority over insured savings banks, including the Bank. This enforcement authority includes, among other things, the ability to assess civil money penalties, to issue cease and desist orders and to remove directors and officers. In general, these enforcement actions may be initiated in response to violations of law and to unsafe or unsound practices. Transactions with Affiliates. Transactions between an insured bank, such as the Bank, and any of its affiliates are governed by Sections 23A and 23B of the Federal Reserve Act and its 21 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART I Item 1 Business implementing regulations. An affiliate of a bank is any company or entity that controls, is controlled by or is under common control with the bank. A subsidiary of a bank that is not also a depository institution, financial subsidiary or other entity defined by the regulation generally is not treated as an affiliate of the bank for purposes of Sections 23A and 23B. Section 23A: •• limits the extent to which a bank or its subsidiaries may engage in “covered transactions” with any one affiliate to an amount equal to 10% of such bank’s capital stock and retained earnings, and limits all such transactions with all affiliates to an amount equal to 20% of such capital stock and retained earnings; and •• requires that all such transactions be on terms that are consistent with safe and sound banking practices. The term “covered transaction” includes the making of loans, purchase of assets, issuance of guarantees and other similar types of transactions. Further, most loans by a bank to any of its affiliates must be secured by collateral in amounts ranging from 100 to 130 percent of the loan amounts. In addition, any covered transaction by a bank with an affiliate and any purchase of assets or services by a bank from an affiliate must be on terms that are substantially the same, or at least as favorable to the bank, as those that would be provided to a non-affiliate. Prohibitions Against Tying Arrangements. Banks are subject to statutory prohibitions on certain tying arrangements. A depository institution is prohibited, subject to certain exceptions, from extending credit to or offering any other service, or fixing or varying the consideration for such extension of credit or service, on the condition that the customer obtain some additional service from the institution or its affiliates or that the customer not obtain services of a competitor of the institution. Privacy Standards. FDIC regulations require the Company and the Bank to disclose their privacy policies, including identifying with whom they share “non-public personal information” to customers at the time of establishing the customer relationship and annually thereafter. The FDIC regulations also require the Company and the Bank to provide their customers with initial and annual notices that accurately reflect their privacy policies and practices. In addition, the Company and the Bank are required to provide their customers with the ability to “opt-out” of having the Company and the Bank share their non-public personal information with unaffiliated third parties before they can disclose such information, subject to certain exceptions. Community Reinvestment Act and Fair Lending Laws. All FDIC insured institutions have a responsibility under the Community Reinvestment Act and related regulations to help meet the credit needs of their communities, including low- and moderate-income neighborhoods. In connection with its examination of a state chartered savings bank, the FDIC is required to assess the institution’s record of compliance with the Community Reinvestment Act. Among other things, the current Community Reinvestment Act regulations rate an institution based upon its actual performance in meeting community needs. In particular, the current evaluation system focuses on three tests: •• a lending test, to evaluate the institution’s record of making loans in its service areas; 22 •• an investment test, to evaluate the institution’s record of investing in community development projects, affordable housing, and programs benefiting low- or moderate-income individuals and businesses; and •• a service test, to evaluate the institution’s delivery of services through its branches, ATMs and other offices. An institution’s failure to comply with the provisions of the Community Reinvestment Act could, at a minimum, result in regulatory restrictions on its activities, including, but not limited to, engaging in acquisitions and mergers. The Bank received an “Outstanding” Community Reinvestment Act rating in its most recently completed federal examination, which was conducted by the FDIC as of December 2014. In addition, the Equal Credit Opportunity Act and the Fair Housing Act prohibit lenders from discriminating in their lending practices on the basis of characteristics specified in those statutes. An institution’s failure to comply with the Equal Credit Opportunity Act and the Fair Housing Act could result in enforcement actions by the FDIC, as well as other federal regulatory agencies and the Department of Justice. Safety and Soundness Standards. Each federal banking agency, including the FDIC, has adopted guidelines establishing general standards relating to internal controls, information and internal audit systems, loan documentation, credit underwriting, interest rate exposure, asset growth, asset quality, earnings, compensation, fees and benefits. In general, the guidelines require, among other things, appropriate systems and practices to identify and manage the risks and exposures specified in the guidelines. The guidelines prohibit excessive compensation as an unsafe and unsound practice and describe compensation as excessive when the amounts paid are unreasonable or disproportionate to the services performed by an executive officer, employee, director, or principal stockholder. In addition, FDIC regulations require a bank that is given notice by the FDIC that it is not satisfying any of such safety and soundness standards to submit a compliance plan to the FDIC. If, after being so notified, a bank fails to submit an acceptable compliance plan or fails in any material respect to implement an accepted compliance plan, the FDIC may issue an order directing corrective and other actions of the types to which a significantly undercapitalized institution is subject under the “prompt corrective action” provisions discussed below. If a bank fails to comply with such an order, the FDIC may seek to enforce such an order in judicial proceedings and to impose civil monetary penalties. Prompt Corrective Action. Federal law requires the FDIC and the other federal banking regulators to promptly resolve the problems of undercapitalized institutions. Federal law also establishes five categories, consisting of “well capitalized,” “adequately capitalized,” “undercapitalized,” “significantly undercapitalized” and “critically undercapitalized.” The FDIC’s regulations define the five capital categories as follows: An institution will be treated as “well capitalized” if: •• its ratio of total capital to risk-weighted assets is at least 10%; •• its ratio of Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets is at least 8%; •• its ratio of common equity Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets is at least 6.5%; and PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART I Item 1 Business •• its ratio of Tier 1 capital to total assets is at least 5%, and it is not subject to any order or directive by the FDIC to meet a specific capital level. An institution will be treated as “adequately capitalized” if: •• its ratio of total capital to risk-weighted assets is at least 8%; or •• its ratio of Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets is at least 6%; •• its ratio of common equity Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets is at least 4.5%; and •• its ratio of Tier 1 capital to total assets is at least 4% and it is not a well-capitalized institution. An institution will be treated as “undercapitalized” if: •• its total risk-based capital is less than 8%; or •• its Tier 1 risk-based-capital is less than 6%; •• its ratio of common equity Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets is less than 4.5%; or •• its leverage ratio is less than 4% An institution will be treated as “significantly undercapitalized” if: •• its total risk-based capital is less than 6%; •• its Tier 1 capital is less than 4%; •• its ratio of common equity to risk-weighted assets is less than 3%; or •• its leverage ratio is less than 3%. An institution that has a tangible capital to total assets ratio equal to or less than 2% would be deemed “critically undercapitalized.” The FDIC is required, with some exceptions, to appoint a receiver or conservator for an insured state bank if that bank is critically undercapitalized. The FDIC may also appoint a conservator or receiver for an insured state bank on the basis of the institution’s financial condition or upon the occurrence of certain events, including: •• insolvency, or when the assets of the bank are less than its liabilities to depositors and others; •• substantial dissipation of assets or earnings through violations of law or unsafe or unsound practices; •• existence of an unsafe or unsound condition to transact business; •• likelihood that the bank will be unable to meet the demands of its depositors or to pay its obligations in the normal course of business; and •• insufficient capital, or the incurring or likely incurring of losses that will substantially deplete all of the institution’s capital with no reasonable prospect of replenishment of capital without federal assistance. The previously discussed final rule that increased capital requirements effective January 1, 2015 adjusted the prompt action categories as reflected above. Loans to a Bank’s Insiders Federal Regulation. A bank’s loans to its executive officers, directors, any owner of 10% or more of its stock (each, an insider) and any of certain entities affiliated with any such person (an insider’s related interest) are subject to the conditions and limitations imposed by Section 22(h) of the Federal Reserve Act and the Federal Reserve Board’s Regulation O. Under these restrictions, the aggregate amount of the loans to any insider and the insider’s related interests may not exceed the loans-to-one-borrower limit applicable to national banks, which is comparable to the loans-to-one-borrower limit applicable to loans by the Bank. All loans by a bank to all insiders and insiders’ related interests in the aggregate may not exceed the bank’s unimpaired capital and unimpaired surplus. With certain exceptions, loans to an executive officer, other than loans for the education of the officer’s children and certain loans secured by the officer’s residence may not exceed at any one time the higher of 2.5% of the bank’s unimpaired capital and unimpaired surplus or $25,000, but in no event more than $100,000. Regulation O also requires that any proposed loan to an insider or a related interest of that insider be approved in advance by a majority of the board of directors of the bank, with any interested directors not participating in the voting, if such loan, when aggregated with any existing loans to that insider and the insider’s related interests, would exceed either (1) $500,000; or (2) the greater of $25,000 or 5% of the bank’s unimpaired capital and surplus. Generally, loans to insiders must be made on substantially the same terms as, and follow credit underwriting procedures that are not less stringent than, those prevailing at the time for, comparable transactions with other persons, and not involve more than the normal risk of payment or present other unfavorable features. An exception may be made for extensions of credit made pursuant to a benefit or compensation plan of a bank that is widely available to employees of the bank and that does not give any preference to insiders of the bank over other employees of the bank. In addition, federal law prohibits extensions of credit to a bank’s insiders and their related interests by any other institution that has a correspondent banking relationship with the bank, unless such extension of credit is on substantially the same terms as those prevailing at the time for comparable transactions with other persons and does not involve more than the normal risk of repayment or present other unfavorable features. The Bank does not, as a matter of policy, make loans to its directors or to their immediate family members and related interests. New Jersey Regulation. Provisions of the New Jersey Banking Act impose conditions and limitations on the liabilities owed to a savings bank by its directors and executive officers and by corporations and partnerships controlled by such persons that are comparable in many respects to the conditions and limitations imposed on the loans and extensions of credit to insiders and their related interests under Regulation O, as discussed above. The New Jersey Banking Act also provides that a savings bank that is in compliance with Regulation O is deemed to be in compliance with such provisions of the New Jersey Banking Act. 23 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART I Item 1 Business Federal Reserve System Under Federal Reserve Board regulations, the Bank is required to maintain non-interest earning reserves against its transaction accounts. The Federal Reserve Board regulations generally require that reserves of 3% must be maintained against aggregate transaction accounts over $15.2 million and up to $110.2 million, and 10% against that portion of total transaction accounts in excess of up to $110.2 million. The first $15.2 million of otherwise reservable balances are exempted from the reserve requirements. The Bank is in compliance with these requirements. These requirements are adjusted annually by the Federal Reserve Board. Because required reserves must be maintained in the form of either vault cash, a non-interest bearing account at a Federal Reserve Bank or a pass-through account as defined by the Federal Reserve Board, the effect of this reserve requirement is to reduce the Bank’s interest-earning assets. The Bank is authorized to borrow from the Federal Reserve Bank discount window. Internet Banking Technological developments continue to significantly alter the ways in which financial institutions conduct their business. The growth of the Internet has caused banks to adopt and refine alternative distribution and marketing systems. The federal bank regulatory agencies have targeted various aspects of internet banking, including the security and systems. There can be no assurance that the bank regulatory agencies will adopt new regulations that will not materially affect the Bank’s Internet operations or restrict any such further operations. The USA PATRIOT Act The USA PATRIOT Act gives the federal government powers to address terrorist threats through enhanced domestic security measures, expanded surveillance powers, increased information sharing, and broadened anti-money laundering requirements. By way of amendments to the Bank Secrecy Act, Title III of the USA PATRIOT Act included measures intended to encourage information sharing among bank regulatory agencies and law enforcement bodies. Further, certain provisions of Title III imposed affirmative obligations on a broad range of financial institutions, including banks, thrifts, brokers, dealers, credit unions, money transfer agents and parties registered under the Commodity Exchange Act. The bank regulatory agencies have increased the regulatory scrutiny of the Bank Secrecy Act and anti-money laundering programs maintained by financial institutions. Significant penalties and fines, as well as other supervisory orders may be imposed on a financial institution for non-compliance with these requirements. In addition, the federal bank regulatory agencies must consider the effectiveness of financial institutions engaging in a merger transaction in combating money laundering activities. The Bank has adopted policies and procedures which are in compliance with these requirements. Holding Company Regulation Federal Regulation. The Company is regulated as a bank holding company, and as such, is subject to examination, regulation and periodic reporting under the Bank Holding Company Act, as administered by the Federal Reserve Board. The Federal Reserve Board has adopted capital adequacy guidelines for bank holding companies on a consolidated basis. The Dodd-Frank Act directed the Federal Reserve Board to issue consolidated capital requirements for depository institution holding companies that are not less stringent, both quantitatively and in terms of components of capital, than those applicable to institutions themselves. The previously discussed final rule regarding regulatory capital requirements implemented the Dodd-Frank Act as to bank holding company capital standards. Consolidated regulatory capital requirements identical to those applicable to the subsidiary banks applied to bank holding companies (with greater than $1 billion of assets) as of January 1, 2015. As is the case with institutions themselves, the capital conservation buffer will be phased in between 2016 and 2019. As of December 31, 2015, the Company’s regulatory capital ratios exceed these minimum capital requirements. 24 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report The following table shows the Company’s Tier 1 leverage capital ratio, common equity Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio, Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio and the total risk-based capital ratio as of December 31, 2015 As of December 31, 2015 PART I Item 1 Business Percent of Assets(1) Capital Requirements(1) (Dollars in thousands) Capital 779,246 779,246 779,246 840,670 Tier 1 leverage capital Common Equity Tier 1 risk-based capital Tier 1 risk-based capital Total risk-based capital (1) For purposes of calculating regulatory Tier 1 leverage capital, assets are based on adjusted total leverage assets. In calculating common equity Tier 1 capital, Tier 1 risk-based 4.00% 4.50 6.00 8.00 11.65 11.65 12.57 9.25% $ capital and total risk-based capital, assets are based on total risk-weighted assets. As of December 31, 2015, the Company was “well capitalized” under Federal Reserve Board guidelines. Regulations of the Federal Reserve Board provide that a bank holding company must serve as a source of strength to any of its subsidiary banks and must not conduct its activities in an unsafe or unsound manner. Federal Reserve Board policies generally provide that bank holding companies should pay dividends only out of current earnings and only if the prospective rate of earnings retention in the holding company appears consistent with the organization’s capital needs, asset quality and overall financial condition. Federal Reserve Board guidance sets forth the supervisory expectation that bank holding companies will inform and consult with Federal Reserve Board staff in advance of issuing a dividend that exceeds earnings for the quarter and should inform the Federal Reserve Board and should eliminate, defer or significantly reduce dividends if (i) net income available to stockholders for the past four quarters, net of dividends previously paid during that period, is not sufficient to fully fund the dividends, (ii) prospective rate of earnings retention is not consistent with the bank holding company’s capital needs and overall current and prospective financial condition, or (iii) the bank holding company will not meet, or is in danger of not meeting, its minimum regulatory capital adequacy ratios. Under the prompt corrective action provisions discussed above, a bank holding company parent of an undercapitalized subsidiary bank would be directed to guarantee, within limitations, the capital restoration plan that is required of such an undercapitalized bank. If the undercapitalized bank fails to file an acceptable capital restoration plan or fails to implement an accepted plan, the Federal Reserve Board may prohibit the bank holding company parent of the undercapitalized bank from paying any dividends or making any other form of capital distribution without the prior approval of the Federal Reserve Board. As a bank holding company, the Company is required to obtain the prior approval of the Federal Reserve Board to acquire all, or substantially all, of the assets of any bank or bank holding company. Prior Federal Reserve Board approval will be required for the Company to acquire direct or indirect ownership or control of any voting securities of any bank or bank holding company if, after giving effect to such acquisition, it would, directly or indirectly, own or control more than 5% of any class of voting shares of such bank or bank holding company. A bank holding company is required to give the Federal Reserve Board prior written notice of any purchase or redemption of its outstanding equity securities if the gross consideration for the purchase or redemption, when combined with the net consideration paid for all such purchases or redemptions during the preceding 12 months will be equal to 10% or more of the company’s consolidated net worth. The Federal Reserve Board may disapprove such a purchase or redemption if it determines that the proposal would constitute an unsafe and unsound practice, or would violate any law, regulation, Federal Reserve Board order or directive, or any condition imposed by, or written agreement with, the Federal Reserve Board. Such notice and approval is not required for a bank holding company that would be treated as “well capitalized” under applicable regulations of the Federal Reserve Board, is well-managed, and that is not the subject of any unresolved supervisory issues. In addition, a bank holding company which does not opt to become a financial holding company under applicable federal law is generally prohibited from engaging in, or acquiring direct or indirect control of any company engaged in non-banking activities. One of the principal exceptions to this prohibition is for activities found by the Federal Reserve Board to be so closely related to banking or managing or controlling banks as to be permissible. Some of the principal activities that the Federal Reserve Board has determined by regulation to be so closely related to banking as to be permissible are: •• making or servicing loans; •• performing certain data processing services; •• providing discount brokerage services; or acting as fiduciary, investment or financial advisor; •• leasing personal or real property; •• making investments in corporations or projects designed primarily to promote community welfare; and •• acquiring a savings and loan association. Bank holding companies that qualify and opt to become a financial holding company may engage in activities that are financial in nature or incident to activities which are financial in nature. Financial holding companies may engage in a broader array of activities including insurance and investment banking. The Company filed an election to qualify as a financial holding company under federal regulations on January 31, 2014 which was deemed effective by the Federal Reserve Board on March 5, 2015. Bank holding companies may qualify to become a financial holding company if at the time of the election and on a continuing basis: •• each of its depository institution subsidiaries is “well capitalized”; •• each of its depository institution subsidiaries is “well managed”; and •• each of its depository institution subsidiaries has at least a “Satisfactory” Community Reinvestment Act rating at its most recent examination. 25 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART I Item 1 Business Under federal law, depository institutions are liable to the FDIC for losses suffered or anticipated by the FDIC in connection with the default of a commonly controlled depository institution or any assistance provided by the FDIC to such an institution in danger of default. This law would potentially be applicable to the Company if it ever acquired as a separate subsidiary, a depository institution in addition to the Bank. New Jersey Regulation. Under the New Jersey Banking Act, a company owning or controlling a savings bank is regulated as a bank holding company. The New Jersey Banking Act defines the terms “company” and “bank holding company” as such terms are defined under the BHCA. Each bank holding company controlling a New Jersey chartered bank or savings bank must file certain reports with the Commissioner and is subject to examination by the Commissioner. Acquisition of Control. Under federal law and under the New Jersey Banking Act, no person may acquire control of the Company or the Bank without first obtaining approval of such acquisition of control from the Federal Reserve Board and the Commissioner. Federal Securities Laws. The Company’s common stock is registered with the SEC under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The Company is subject to the information, proxy solicitation, insider trading restrictions and other requirements under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Investment Adviser Regulation Each of Beacon Investment Advisory Services, Inc. and Acertus Capital Management, LLC are investment advisers registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission. As such, they are required to make certain filings with and are subject to periodic examination by, the Securities and Exchange Commission. Delaware Corporation Law The Company is incorporated under the laws of the State of Delaware. As a result, the rights of its stockholders are governed by the Delaware General Corporate Law and the Company’s Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws. Taxation Federal Taxation General. The Company is subject to federal income taxation in the same general manner as other corporations, with some exceptions discussed below. The following discussion of federal taxation is intended only to summarize certain pertinent federal income tax matters and is not a comprehensive description of the tax rules applicable to the Company. Method of Accounting. For federal income tax purposes, the Company currently reports its income and expenses on the accrual method of accounting and uses a tax year ending December 31 for filing its consolidated federal income tax returns. Bad Debt Reserves. Prior to the Small Business Protection Act of 1996 (the “1996 Act”), the Bank was permitted to establish a reserve for bad debts and to make annual additions to the reserve. These additions could, within specified formula limits, be deducted in arriving at taxable income. The Bank was required to use the direct charge-off method to compute its bad debt deduction beginning with its 1996 federal income tax return. Savings institutions were required to recapture any excess reserves over those established as of December 31, 1987 (base year reserve). Taxable Distributions and Recapture. Prior to the 1996 Act, bad debt reserves created prior to January 1, 1988 were subject to recapture into taxable income should the Bank fail to meet certain asset and definitional tests. Federal legislation has eliminated these recapture rules. Retained earnings at December 31, 2015 included approximately $51.8 million for which no provisions for income tax had been made. This amount represents an allocation of income to bad debt deductions for tax purposes only. Events that would result in taxation of these reserves include failure to qualify as a bank for tax purposes, distributions in complete or partial liquidation, stock redemptions and excess distributions to shareholders. At December 31, 2015, the Bank had an unrecognized tax liability of $20.1 million with respect to this reserve. Corporate Alternative Minimum Tax. The Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), imposes an alternative minimum tax (AMT) at a rate of 20% on a base of regular taxable income plus certain tax preferences (alternative minimum taxable income or AMTI). The AMT is payable to the extent such AMTI is in excess of an exemption amount and the AMT exceeds the regular income tax. Net operating losses can offset no more than 90% of AMTI. Certain payments of alternative minimum tax may be used as credits against regular tax liabilities in future years. The Company has not been subject to the alternative minimum tax and has no such amounts available as credits for carryover. Net Operating Loss Carryovers. Under the general rule, a financial institution may carry back net operating losses to the preceding two taxable years and forward to the succeeding 20 taxable 26 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART I Item 1A Risk Factors years. At December 31, 2015, the Company had approximately $3,000,000 of Federal Net Operating Losses (“NOLs”). These NOLs were generated by entities the Company acquired in previous years and are subject to an annual Code Section 382 limitation. Corporate Dividends-Received Deduction. The Company may exclude from its income 100% of dividends received from the Bank as a member of the same affiliated group of corporations. State Taxation New Jersey State Taxation. The Company and the Bank file New Jersey Corporation Business Tax returns. Generally, the income of financial institutions in New Jersey, which is calculated based on federal taxable income subject to certain adjustments, is subject to New Jersey tax. The Company and the Bank are currently subject to the corporate business tax (“CBT”) at 9% of apportioned taxable income. New Jersey tax law does not and has not allowed for a taxpayer to file a tax return on a combined or consolidated basis with another member of the affiliated group where there is common ownership. However, if the taxpayer cannot demonstrate by clear and convincing evidence that the tax filing discloses the true earnings of the taxpayer on its business carried on in the State of New Jersey, the Director of the New Jersey Division of Taxation may, at the director’s discretion, require the taxpayer to file a consolidated return of the entire operations of the affiliated group or controlled group, including its own operations and income. Pennsylvania State Taxation. As a result of the acquisition of Team Capital in 2014, the Bank is now subject to Pennsylvania Mutual Thrift Institutions Tax. Mutual thrift institutions tax is imposed at the rate of 11.5 percent on net taxable income of mutual thrift institutions in Pennsylvania, including savings banks without capital stock, building and loan associations, savings and loan associations, and savings institutions having capital stock. ITEM 1A. Risk Factors In the ordinary course of operating our business, we are exposed to a variety of risks inherent to the financial services industry. The following discusses the significant risk factors that could affect our business and operations. If any of the following conditions or events actually occur, our business, financial condition or results of operations could be negatively affected, the market price of your investment in the Company’s common stock could decline, and you could lose all or a part of your investment in the Company’s common stock. Changes in interest rates could adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition. Our financial condition and results of operations are significantly affected by changes in market interest rates, and the degree to which these changes disparately impact short-term and long- term interest rates. Our results of operations substantially depend on our net interest income, which is the difference between the interest income we earn on our interest-earning assets and the interest expense we pay on our interest-bearing liabilities. Our interest-bearing liabilities generally reprice or mature more quickly than our interest-earning assets. Until recently, the Federal Reserve Board had maintained interest rates at historically low levels through its targeted federal funds rate. If the Federal Reserve Board’s recent action to start increasing short-term rates does not result in an increase in long-term rates, we may experience a flattening or inverted yield curve that would negatively impact our net interest margin and earnings. Further, if rates increase rapidly, we may have to increase the rates we pay on our deposits and borrowed funds more quickly than any changes in interest rates earned on our loans and investments, resulting in a negative effect on interest spreads and net interest income. In addition, the effect of rising rates could be compounded if deposit customers move funds into higher yielding accounts. Conversely, should market interest rates fall below current levels, our net interest margin could also be negatively affected if competitive pressures keep us from further reducing rates on our deposits, while the yields on our assets decrease more rapidly through loan prepayments and interest rate adjustments. In the event of a 300 basis point increase in interest rates, whereby rates ramp up evenly over a twelve-month period, and assuming management took no actions to mitigate the effect of such change, we are projecting that our net interest income would decrease 2.5% or $6.2 million. Changes in interest rates also affect the value of our interest-earning assets and in particular our securities portfolio. Generally, the value of securities fluctuates inversely with changes in interest rates. At December 31, 2015, our available for sale securities portfolio totaled $964.5 million. Unrealized gains and losses on securities available for sale are reported as a separate component of stockholders’ equity. Decreases in the fair value of securities available for sale resulting from increases in interest rates therefore could have an adverse effect on stockholders’ equity. We are also subject to prepayment and reinvestment risk related to interest rate movements. Changes in interest rates can affect the average life of loans and mortgage related securities. Decreases in interest rates can result in the prepayment or refinancing of loans and loans underlying mortgage related securities, resulting in accelerated cash flows subject to reinvestment at reduced market interest rates and increased premium amortization. Under these circumstances, we are subject to reinvestment risk to the extent that such prepayments cannot be reinvested at a profitable spread in excess of our funding costs. Increases in interest rates can result in reduced prepayments of loans and mortgage related securities, as borrowers retain existing loans to maintain lower borrowing costs. 27 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART I Item 1A Risk Factors We are subject to liquidity risk. Liquidity risk is the potential that we will be unable to meet our obligations as they become due or capitalize on growth opportunities as they arise because of an inability to liquidate assets or obtain adequate funding on a timely basis at a reasonable cost within acceptable risk tolerances. Liquidity is required to fund various obligations, including loan originations and commitments, withdrawals by depositors, repayments of borrowings, operating expenses and capital expenditures. Liquidity is derived primarily from retail deposit growth and retention; principal and interest payments on loans; the sale, maturity and prepayment of investment securities; net cash provided from operations; and access to other funding sources. Our access to funding sources in amounts adequate to finance our activities could be impaired by factors specific to us or the financial services industry in general. Factors detrimental to our access to liquidity sources include a decrease in the level of our business activity due to a market downturn or adverse regulatory action against us. Recent regulations implemented under the Dodd-Frank Act have made retail deposits in transaction accounts more attractive to banks with assets greater than $50 billion, which pressures will likely continue to increase the competition we face to retain these deposits. Our ability to borrow could also be impaired by factors that are not specific to us, such as a severe disruption of the financial markets or negative views and expectations about the prospects for the financial services industry. If our allowance for loan losses is not sufficient to cover actual loan losses, our earnings could decrease. We make various assumptions and judgments about the collectability of our loan portfolio, including the creditworthiness of our borrowers and the value of the real estate and other assets serving as collateral for the repayment of many of our loans. In determining the amount of the allowance for loan losses, we rely on our loan quality reviews and credit risk ratings, our experience and our evaluation of economic conditions, among other factors. If our assumptions prove to be incorrect, or if delinquencies or non-accrual and non-performing loans increase, the allowance for loan losses may not be sufficient to cover losses inherent in our loan portfolio, resulting in additions to our allowance. Material additions to the allowance would materially decrease our net income. Our emphasis on the diversification of our loan portfolio through the origination of commercial mortgage loans, commercial loans, and construction loans has been one of the more significant factors we have taken into account in evaluating our allowance for loan losses and provision for loan losses. In the event we were to further increase the amount of such types of loans in our portfolio, we may decide to make additional or increased provisions for loans losses, which could adversely affect our earnings. In addition, bank regulators periodically review our allowance for loan losses and may require us to increase our provision for loan losses or recognize further loan charge-offs. Any increase in our allowance for loan losses or loan charge-offs as required by these regulatory authorities could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition. 28 A downturn in the housing sector and related markets may adversely affect our business and financial results. Our lending business and investments in mortgage-backed securities are tied in large part to the housing market. Lower home prices, a heightened level of foreclosures, or a protracted foreclosure process would adversely impact the credit performance of real estate related loans and collateral values. These conditions could potentially cause a reduction in loan demand, and increases in our non-performing assets, net charge-offs and provisions for loan losses. Such negative economic conditions could adversely impact our prospects for growth, asset and goodwill valuations, and could result in a decrease in our interest income and a material increase in our provision for loan losses. A general economic slowdown or uncertainty that produces either reduced returns or excessive market volatility could adversely impact our wealth management fee income. A general economic slowdown could affect the value of the assets under management in our wealth management business resulting in lower fee income. Furthermore, conditions that produce extended market volatility could affect our ability to provide our customers with an adequate return, thereby causing them to seek more stable investment opportunities with alternative wealth advisors. Our commercial real estate, multi-family, and commercial loans expose us to increased lending risks. A significant portion of our loan portfolio consists of commercial real estate, multi-family, commercial and, to a lesser extent, construction loans. These loans are generally regarded as having a higher risk of default and loss than single-family residential mortgage loans, because repayment of these loans often depends on the successful operation of a business or of the underlying property. In addition, our construction loans, commercial mortgage loans, multi-family loans and commercial loans have significantly larger average loan balances compared to our single-family residential mortgage loans. Also, many of our borrowers of these types of loans have more than one loan outstanding with us. Consequently, any adverse development with respect to one loan or one credit relationship can expose us to a significantly greater risk of loss compared to an adverse development with respect to one single- family residential mortgage loan. Our continuing concentration of loans in our primary market area may increase our risk. Our success is significantly affected by general economic conditions in northern and central New Jersey, and with the acquisition of Team Capital Bank in 2014, eastern Pennsylvania. Unlike some larger banks that are more geographically diversified, we provide banking and financial services to customers mostly located in our primary markets. Consequently, a downturn in economic conditions in our local markets would have a significant impact on our loan portfolios, the ability of borrowers to repay their loans and the value of the collateral securing PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report our loans. Adverse local economic conditions caused by inflation, recession, unemployment or other factors beyond our control would impact these local economic conditions and could negatively affect the financial results of our banking operations. Additionally, because we have a significant amount of real estate loans, depressed real estate values and real estate sales may also have a negative effect on the ability of many of our borrowers to make timely repayments of their loans, which would have an adverse impact on our earnings and overall financial condition. We target our business development and marketing strategy for loans to serve primarily the banking and financial services needs of small- to medium-sized businesses in northern and central New Jersey and eastern Pennsylvania. These businesses generally have fewer financial resources in terms of capital or borrowing capacity than larger entities. If general economic conditions negatively impact these businesses, our results of operations and financial condition may be adversely affected. Risks associated with cyber-security could negatively affect our earnings. The financial services industry has experienced an increase in both the number and severity of reported cyber attacks aimed at gaining unauthorized access to bank systems as a way to misappropriate assets and sensitive information, corrupt and destroy data, or cause operational disruptions. We have established policies and procedures to prevent or limit the impact of security breaches, but such events may still occur or may not be adequately addressed if they do occur. Although we rely on security safeguards to secure our data, these safeguards may not fully protect our systems from compromises or breaches. We also rely on the integrity and security of a variety of third party processers, payment, clearing and settlement systems, as well as the various participants involved in these systems, many of which have no direct relationship with us. Failure by these participants or their systems to protect our customers’ transaction data may put us at risk for possible losses due to fraud or operational disruption. Our customers are also the target of cyber attacks and identity theft. Large scale identity theft could result in customers’ accounts being compromised and fraudulent activities being performed in their name. We have implemented certain safeguards against these types of activities but they may not fully protect us from fraudulent financial losses. The occurrence of a breach of security involving our customers’ information, regardless of its origin, could damage our reputation and result in a loss of customers and business and subject us to additional regulatory scrutiny, and could expose us to litigation and possible financial liability. Any of these events could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. PART I Item 1A Risk Factors by employees or persons outside our company, the execution of unauthorized transactions by employees, errors relating to transaction processing and technology, breaches of the internal control system and compliance requirements, the occurrence of systems failures and disruptions, and business continuation and disaster recovery. Insurance coverage may not be available for such losses, or where available, such losses may exceed insurance limits. This risk of loss also includes the potential legal actions that could arise as a result of an operational deficiency or as a result of noncompliance with applicable regulatory standards, adverse business decisions or their implementation, and customer attrition due to potential negative publicity. While we maintain a risk management program that is designed to minimize risk, we could suffer losses, face regulatory action, and suffer damage to our reputation as a result of our failure to properly anticipate and manage these risks. We operate in a highly regulated environment and may be adversely affected by changes in laws and regulations. We are subject to extensive regulation, supervision and examination by the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance, our chartering authority, and by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, as insurer of our deposits. As a bank holding company, we are subject to regulation and oversight by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System. Such regulation and supervision govern the activities in which a bank and its holding company may engage and are intended primarily for the protection of the insurance fund and depositors. These regulatory authorities have extensive discretion in connection with their supervisory and enforcement activities, including the requirement for additional capital, the imposition of restrictions on our operations, restrictions on our ability to pay dividends and make other capital distributions to stockholders, the classification of our assets, the adequacy of our allowance for loan losses, and our management of risks posed by our reliance on third party vendors. Any change in such regulation and oversight, whether in the form of regulatory policy, regulations, or legislation, could have a material impact on our operations. The potential exists for additional Federal or state laws and regulations regarding capital requirements, lending and funding practices and liquidity standards, and bank regulatory agencies are expected to remain active in responding to concerns and trends identified in examinations, including the potential issuance of formal enforcement orders. Actions taken to date, as well as potential actions, may not have the beneficial effects that are intended. In addition, new laws, regulations, and other regulatory changes could increase our costs of regulatory compliance and of doing business, and otherwise affect our operations. New laws, regulations, and other regulatory changes, may significantly affect the markets in which we do business, the markets for and value of our loans and investments, and our ongoing operations, costs and profitability. Because the financial services business involves a high volume of transactions, we face significant operational risks. We operate in diverse market segments and rely on the ability of our employees, systems and third party providers, who are used extensively in support of our operations, to process a high number of transactions. Operational risk is the risk of loss resulting from our operations, including but not limited to, the risk of fraud Financial reform legislation could substantially increase our compliance burden and costs and necessitate changes in the conduct of our business. On July 21, 2010, the Dodd-Frank Act was signed into law. The Dodd-Frank Act is having a broad impact on the financial services industry, including significant regulatory and compliance changes. 29 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART I Item 1A Risk Factors Many of the requirements called for in the Dodd-Frank Act are being implemented over time. Given the uncertainty associated with the manner in which the provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act will be implemented by the various regulatory agencies and through regulations, the full extent of the impact such requirements will have on our operations is unclear and may not be known for many years. The changes resulting from the Dodd-Frank Act may impact the profitability of our business activities, require changes to certain of our business practices, impose upon us more stringent capital, liquidity and leverage requirements or otherwise adversely affect our business. In particular, the following provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act, among others, are impacting our operations and activities, both currently and prospectively: •• imposition of comprehensive, new consumer protection requirements, which could substantially increase our compliance burden and potentially expose us to new liabilities; •• application of regulatory capital requirements to the Company; and •• changes in methodologies for calculating deposit insurance premiums and increases in required deposit insurance fund reserve levels, which could increase our deposit insurance expense. Banks with assets in excess of $10 billion are subject to additional requirements imposed by the Dodd Frank Act and its implementing regulations such as the imposition of higher FDIC premiums, reduced debit card interchange fees, enhanced risk management frameworks and stress testing, all of which increase operating costs and reduce earnings. As we approach $10 billion in assets, we will be required to incur additional costs to address these imposed requirements. Further, we may be required to invest significant management attention and resources to evaluate and continue to make any changes necessary to comply with new statutory and regulatory requirements under the Dodd-Frank Act. Failure to comply with the new requirements may negatively impact our results of operations and financial condition. While we cannot predict what effect any presently contemplated or future changes in the laws or regulations or their interpretations would have on us, these changes could be materially adverse to our investors. The short-term and long-term impact of the changing regulatory capital requirements and new capital rules is uncertain. The federal banking agencies have adopted proposals that have substantially amended the regulatory risk-based capital rules applicable to the Bank and the Company. The amendments implemented the “Basel III” regulatory capital reforms and changes required by the Dodd-Frank Act. The new rules apply regulatory capital requirements to both the Bank and the consolidated Company. The amended rules included new minimum risk-based capital and leverage ratios, which became effective in January 2015, with certain requirements to be phased in beginning in 2016, and refined the definition of what constitutes “capital” for purposes of calculating those ratios. The new minimum capital level requirements applicable to the Bank and the Company include: (i) a new common equity Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of 4.5%; (ii) a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of 6% (increased from 4%); (iii) a total risk-based capital ratio of 8% (unchanged from current rules); and (iv) a Tier 1 leverage 30 ratio of 4% for all institutions. The amended rules also establish a “capital conservation buffer” of 2.5% above the new regulatory minimum capital ratios, and would result in the following minimum ratios: (i) a common equity Tier 1 capital ratio of 7.0%; (ii) a Tier 1 capital ratio of 8.5%; and (iii) a total capital ratio of 10.5%. The new capital conservation buffer requirement will be phased in beginning in January 2016 at 0.625% of risk-weighted assets and will increase each year until fully implemented in January 2019. An institution will be subject to limitations on paying dividends, engaging in share repurchases, and paying discretionary bonuses if its capital level falls below the buffer amount. These limitations will establish a maximum percentage of eligible retained income that could be utilized for such actions. The Basel III changes and other regulatory capital requirements will result in generally higher regulatory capital standards. The application of more stringent capital requirements to the Bank and the consolidated Company could, among other things, result in lower returns on invested capital, require the raising of additional capital, and result in regulatory actions if we were to be unable to comply with such requirements. Furthermore, the imposition of liquidity requirements in connection with the implementation of Basel III could result in our having to lengthen the term of our funding, restructure our business models, and/or increase our holdings of liquid assets. Implementation of changes to asset risk weightings for risk based capital calculations, items included or deducted in calculating regulatory capital and/or additional capital conservation buffers could result in management modifying its business strategy and could further limit our ability to make distributions, including paying out dividends or buying back shares. Strong competition within our market area may limit our growth and profitability. Competition in the banking and financial services industry is intense. In our market area, we compete with commercial banks, savings institutions, mortgage banking firms, credit unions, finance companies, investment advisers, wealth managers, mutual funds, insurance companies, and brokerage and investment banking firms operating locally and elsewhere. In particular, over the past decade, our local markets have experienced the effects of substantial banking consolidation, and large out-of-state competitors have grown significantly. There are also a number of strong locally- based competitors in our market. Many of these competitors have substantially greater resources and lending limits than we do, and may offer certain deposit and loan pricing, services or credit criteria that we do not or cannot provide. Our profitability depends upon our continued ability to successfully compete in our market area. Acts of terrorism and other external events could impact our ability to conduct business. Our business is subject to risk from external events. Financial institutions have been, and continue to be, targets of terrorist threats aimed at compromising their operating and communication systems. The metropolitan New York and Northern New Jersey areas remain central targets for potential acts of terrorism, which could affect not only our operations but those of our customers. Events such as these may become more common in the future and could cause significant damage, cause disruption of PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART I Item 2 Properties power and communication services, impact the stability of our facilities and result in additional expenses, impair the ability of our borrowers to repay their loans, reduce the value of collateral securing the repayment of our loans, and result in the loss of revenue. While we have established and regularly test disaster recovery procedures, the occurrence of any such event could have a material adverse effect on our business, operations and financial condition. We hold certain intangible assets that could be classified as impaired in the future. If these assets are considered to be either partially or fully impaired in the future, our earnings could decline. We record all assets acquired and liabilities assumed by the Company in purchase acquisitions, including goodwill and other intangible assets, at fair value. At December 31, 2015, goodwill totaling $411.6 million was not amortized but remains subject to impairment tests at least annually, or more often if events or circumstances indicate it may be impaired. Other intangible assets are amortized over their estimated useful lives and are subject to impairment tests if events or circumstances indicate a potential inability to realize the carrying amount. The initial recording and subsequent impairment testing of goodwill and other intangible assets requires subjective judgments about the estimates of the fair value of assets acquired. A company has the option to qualitatively determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount before proceeding with a two step quantitative impairment analysis. If a company concludes that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, the entity would be required to perform Step 1 of the quantitative impairment analysis and then, if needed, Step 2 to determine whether goodwill is impaired. The first step compares the fair value of the reporting unit with its carrying amount, including goodwill. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount, goodwill of the reporting unit is considered not impaired. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, an additional test must be performed. The second step test compares the implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill. An impairment loss would be recorded to the extent that the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds its implied value. Fair value may be determined using market prices, comparison to similar assets, market multiples, discounted cash flow analysis and other factors. Estimated cash flows may extend far into the future and by their nature are difficult to determine over an extended time frame. Factors that may significantly affect the estimates include specific industry or market sector conditions, changes in revenue growth trends, customer behavior, competitive forces, cost structures and changes in discount rates. It is possible that our future impairment testing could result in an impairment of the value of goodwill or other identified intangible assets, or both. If we determine impairment exists at a given point in time, our earnings and the book value of the related intangible asset(s) will be reduced by the amount of the impairment. In any event, the results of impairment testing on goodwill and other identified intangible assets have no impact on our tangible book value or regulatory capital levels. ITEM 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments There are no unresolved comments from the staff of the SEC to report. ITEM 2. Properties Property At December 31, 2015, the Bank conducted business through 87 full-service branch offices located in Hudson, Bergen, Essex, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Morris, Ocean, Passaic, Somerset, Union and Warren counties in New Jersey, and in Bucks, Lehigh and Northampton counties in Pennsylvania. The aggregate net book value of premises and equipment was $89.0 million at December 31, 2015. The Company’s executive offices are located in a leased facility at 239 Washington Street, Jersey City, New Jersey, which is also the Bank’s Main Office. The Bank’s administrative offices are located in a leased facility at 100 Wood Avenue South, Iselin, New Jersey. 31 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART I Item 4 mine Safety Disclosures ITEM 3. Legal Proceedings The Company is involved in various legal actions and claims arising in the normal course of its business. In the opinion of management, these legal actions and claims are not expected to have a material adverse impact on the Company’s financial condition and results of operations. ITEM 4. mine Safety Disclosures Not applicable. 32 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II ITEM 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities The Company’s common stock trades on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) under the symbol “PFS.” Trading in the Company’s common stock commenced on January 16, 2003. As of February 1, 2016, there were 83,209,293 shares of the Company’s common stock issued and 65,794,731 shares outstanding, and approximately 5,270 stockholders of record. The table below shows the high and low closing prices reported on the NYSE for the Company’s common stock, as well as the cash dividends paid per common share during the periods indicated. First Quarter Second Quarter Third Quarter Fourth Quarter $ $ High 18.91 19.52 19.78 21.18 2015 Low 16.91 17.85 18.30 19.30 $ Dividend 0.16 0.16 $ 0.16 0.17 $ High 19.11 18.65 17.50 18.27 2014 Low 16.38 16.48 16.37 16.21 $ Dividend 0.15 0.15 0.15 0.15 On January 28, 2016, the Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.17 per common share, which was paid on February 26, 2016, to common stockholders of record as of the close of business on February 12, 2016. The Company’s Board of Directors intends to review the payment of dividends quarterly and plans to continue to maintain a regular quarterly cash dividend in the future, subject to financial condition, results of operations, tax considerations, industry standards, economic conditions, regulatory restrictions that affect the payment of dividends by the Bank to the Company and other relevant factors. The Company is subject to the requirements of Delaware law that generally limit dividends to an amount equal to the difference between the amount by which total assets exceed total liabilities and the amount equal to the aggregate par value of the outstanding shares of capital stock. If there is no difference between these amounts, dividends are limited to net income for the current and/ or immediately preceding year. In addition, Federal Reserve Board guidance sets forth the supervisory expectation that bank holding companies will inform and consult with Federal Reserve Board staff in advance of issuing a dividend that exceeds earnings for the quarter and should inform the Federal Reserve Board and should eliminate, defer or significantly reduce dividends if (i) net income available to stockholders for the past four quarters, net of dividends previously paid during that period, is not sufficient to fully fund the dividends, (ii) prospective rate of earnings retention is not consistent with the bank holding company’s capital needs and overall current and prospective financial condition, or (iii) the bank holding company will not meet, or is in danger of not meeting, its minimum regulatory capital adequacy ratios. 33 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II ItEM 5 Market for Registrant’s Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities Stock Performance Graph Set forth below is a stock performance graph comparing (a) the cumulative total return on the Company’s common stock for the period December 31, 2010 through December 31, 2015, (b) the cumulative total return on stocks included in the Russell 2000 Index over such period, and (c) the cumulative total return of the SNL Thrift Index over such period. The SNL Thrift Index, produced by SNL Financial LC, contains all thrift institutions traded on the New York and NASDAQ stock exchanges. Cumulative return assumes the reinvestment of dividends and is expressed in dollars based on an assumed investment of $100 on December 31, 2010. TOTAL RETURN PERFORMANCE l e u a V x e d n I 200 180 160 140 120 100 80 60 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 Provident Financial Services, Inc. Russell 2000 SNL Thrift Period Ending Index Provident Financial Services, Inc. Russell 2000 SNL Thrift 12/31/2010 100.00 100.00 100.00 12/31/2011 91.66 95.82 84.12 12/31/2012 107.27 111.49 102.39 12/31/2013 143.66 154.78 131.30 12/31/2014 139.06 162.35 141.22 12/31/2015 160.50 155.18 158.80 The following table reports information regarding purchases of the Company’s common stock during the fourth quarter of 2015 under the stock repurchase plan approved by the Company’s Board of Directors: ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES Period October 1, 2015 through October 31, 2015 November 1, 2015 through November 30, 2015 December 1, 2015 through December 31, 2015 Total (1) On October 24, 2007, the Company’s Board of Directors approved the purchase of up to 3,107,077 shares of its common stock under a seventh general repurchase program which commenced upon completion of the previous repurchase program. The repurchase program has no expiration date. All shares purchased during the fourth quarter of 2015 were repurchased pursuant to the seventh general repurchase program. $ (a) Total Number of Shares Purchased 1,074 994 — 2,068 (b) Average Price Paid per Share 19.75 20.69 — 20.20 $ (c) Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs(1) 1,074 994 — 2,068 (d) Maximum Number of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs(1)(2) 3,342,298 3,341,304 3,341,304 (2) On December 20, 2012, the Company’s Board of Directors approved the purchase of up to 3,017,770 shares of its common stock under an eighth general repurchase program which will commence upon completion of the seventh repurchase program. The repurchase program has no expiration date. Common stock repurchases for the three months ended December 31, 2015 were made in connection with employee income tax withholding on stock-based compensation. 34 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report ITEM 6. Selected Financial Data The summary information presented below at or for each of the periods presented is derived in part from and should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements of the Company presented in Item 8. PART II ItEM 6 Selected Financial Data (Dollars in thousands) Selected Financial Condition Data: Total assets Loans, net(1) Investment securities held to maturity Securities available for sale Deposits Borrowed funds Stockholders’ equity (Dollars in thousands) Selected Operations Data: Interest income Interest expense Net interest income Provision for loan losses Net interest income after provision for loan losses Non-interest income Non-interest expense Income before income tax expense Income tax expense Net income 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 At December 31, $ 8,911,657 $ 8,523,377 $ 7,487,328 $ 7,283,695 $ 7,097,403 4,579,158 5,130,149 4,834,351 6,023,771 6,476,250 473,684 964,534 5,923,987 1,707,632 1,196,065 469,528 1,074,395 5,792,523 1,509,851 1,144,099 357,500 1,157,594 5,202,471 1,203,879 1,010,753 359,464 1,264,002 5,428,271 803,264 981,246 348,318 1,376,119 5,156,597 920,180 952,477 For the Years Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 $ 291,781 $ 279,361 $ 252,777 $ 262,259 $ 41,901 249,880 4,350 245,530 55,222 180,589 120,163 36,441 83,722 $ 40,472 238,889 4,650 234,239 41,168 169,991 105,416 31,785 73,631 $ 36,767 216,010 5,500 210,510 44,153 148,763 105,900 35,366 70,534 $ 44,922 217,337 16,000 201,337 43,613 148,828 96,122 28,855 67,267 $ $ 275,719 59,729 215,990 28,900 187,090 32,542 142,446 77,186 19,842 57,344 Earnings per share: Basic earnings per share Diluted earnings per share (1) Loans are shown net of allowance for loan losses, deferred fees and unearned discount. $ $ 1.33 $ 1.33 $ 1.22 $ 1.22 $ 1.23 $ 1.23 $ 1.18 $ 1.18 $ 1.01 1.01 35 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II ItEM 6 Selected Financial Data Selected Financial and Other Data(1) Performance Ratios: Return on average assets Return on average equity Average net interest rate spread Net interest margin(2) Average interest-earning assets to average interest- bearing liabilities Non-interest income to average total assets Non-interest expenses to average total assets Efficiency ratio(3) Asset Quality Ratios: 2015 At or For the Years Ended December 31, 2012 2013 2014 2011 0.96% 0.92% 0.97% 0.94% 0.83% 7.12 3.07 3.20 1.24 0.64 2.07 6.75 3.18 3.30 1.22 0.51 2.11 7.08 3.19 3.31 1.22 0.61 2.05 6.88 3.25 3.38 1.19 0.61 2.08 6.09 3.33 3.49 1.16 0.47 2.07 59.19 60.70 57.18 57.03 57.31 Non-performing loans to total loans 0.68% 0.88% 1.48% 2.02% 2.63% Non-performing assets to total assets Allowance for loan losses to non-performing loans Allowance for loan losses to total loans 0.62 137.92 0.94 0.69 114.63 1.01 1.10 84.32 1.24 1.53 71.07 1.43 1.91 60.67 1.60 Capital Ratios: Leverage capital(4) Total risk based capital(4) Average equity to average assets Other Data: Number of full-service offices 9.25% 9.21% 9.42% 8.93% 8.74% 12.57 13.53 13.06 13.57 12.89 14.14 12.68 13.93 12.80 14.05 87 86 77 78 82 Full time equivalent employees (1) Averages presented are daily averages. (2) Net interest income divided by average interest earning assets. (3) Represents the ratio of non-interest expense divided by the sum of net interest income and non-interest income. (4) Leverage capital ratios are presented as a percentage of quarterly average tangible assets. Risk-based capital ratios are presented as a percentage of risk-weighted assets. 1,008 967 886 884 906 Efficiency Ratio Calculation: 12/31/2015 12/31/2014 12/31/2013 12/31/2012 12/31/2011 Net interest income Non-interest income Total income Non-interest expense Expense/income $ $ $ 249,880 55,222 305,102 180,589 $ $ $ 238,889 41,168 280,057 169,991 $ $ $ 216,010 44,153 260,163 148,763 $ $ $ 217,337 43,613 260,950 148,828 $ $ $ 215,990 32,542 248,532 142,446 59.19% 60.70% 57.18% 57.03% 57.31% 36 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II ItEM 7 Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations ITEM 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations General On January 15, 2003, the Company became the holding company for the Bank, following the completion of the conversion of the Bank to a New Jersey-chartered capital stock savings bank. The Company issued an aggregate of 59,618,300 shares of its common stock in a subscription offering to eligible depositors. Concurrent with the conversion, the Company contributed an additional 1,920,000 shares of its common stock and $4.8 million in cash to The Provident Bank Foundation, a charitable foundation established by the Bank. The Company conducts business through its subsidiary, the Bank, a community- and customer-oriented bank currently operating 87 full-service branches throughout northern and central New Jersey, as well as Bucks, Lehigh and Northampton counties in Pennsylvania. Strategy Established in 1839, the Bank is the oldest New Jersey-chartered bank in the state. The Bank offers a full range of retail and commercial loan and deposit products, and emphasizes personal service and convenience. The Bank’s strategy is to grow profitably through a commitment to credit quality and expanding market share by acquiring, retaining and expanding customer relationships, while carefully managing interest rate risk. In recent years, the Bank has focused on commercial real estate, multi-family and commercial loans as part of its strategy to diversify the loan portfolio and reduce interest rate risk. These types of loans generally have adjustable rates that initially are higher than residential mortgage loans and generally have a higher rate of risk. The Bank’s credit policy focuses on quality underwriting standards and close monitoring of the loan portfolio. At December 31, 2015, these commercial loan types accounted for 72.1% of the loan portfolio and retail loans accounted for 27.9%. The Company intends to continue to focus on commercial real estate, multi-family and commercial lending relationships. The Company’s relationship banking strategy focuses on increasing core accounts and expanding relationships through its branch network, mobile banking, online banking and telephone banking touch points. The Company continues to evaluate opportunities to increase market share by expanding within existing and contiguous markets. Core deposits, consisting of savings and demand deposit accounts, are generally a stable, relatively inexpensive source of funds. At December 31, 2015, core deposits were 87.5% of total deposits. The Company’s results of operations are primarily dependent upon net interest income, the difference between interest earned on interest-earning assets and the interest paid on interest-bearing liabilities. Changes in interest rates could have an adverse effect on net interest income to the extent the Company’s interest-bearing assets and interest-bearing liabilities reprice or mature at different times or relative interest rates. An increase in interest rates generally would result in a decrease in the Company’s average interest rate spread and net interest income, which could have a negative effect on profitability. The Company generates non-interest income such as income from retail and business account fees, loan servicing fees, loan origination fees, loan level swap fees, appreciation in the cash surrender value of Bank-owned life insurance, income from loan or securities sales, fees from wealth management services and investment product sales and other fees. The Company’s operating expenses consist primarily of compensation and benefits expense, occupancy and equipment expense, data processing expense, the amortization of intangible assets, marketing and advertising expense and other general and administrative expenses. The Company’s results of operations are also affected by general economic conditions, changes in market interest rates, changes in asset quality, changes in asset values, actions of regulatory agencies and government policies. Acquisitions On April 1, 2015, Beacon Trust Company (“Beacon”), a wholly owned subsidiary of The Provident Bank, completed its acquisition of certain assets and liabilities of The MDE Group, Inc. and the equity interests of Acertus Capital Management, LLC (together “MDE”), both Morristown, New Jersey-based registered investment advisory firms that manage assets for affluent and high net-worth clients. MDE was acquired with both cash and contingent consideration. The Company recognized goodwill of $18.3 million and a customer relationship intangible of $7.0 million related to the acquisition. The Company recognized a contingent consideration liability at its fair value of $338,000. The contingent consideration arrangement requires the Company to pay additional cash consideration to MDE’s former stakeholders four years after the closing of the acquisition if certain revenue targets are met. The fair value of the contingent consideration was estimated using a discounted cash flow model. The acquisition agreement limits the total payment to a maximum of $12.5 million, to be determined based on actual future results. 37 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II ItEM 7 Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations On October 31, 2014, Beacon acquired the fiduciary account relationships of Suffolk County National Bank, a subsidiary of Suffolk Bancorp, in Suffolk County, New York. On May 30, 2014, the Company completed its acquisition of Team Capital Bank (“Team Capital”), which after purchase accounting adjustments added $964.0 million to total assets, $631.2 million to loans, and $769.9 million to deposits. Total consideration paid for Team Capital was $115.1 million: $31.6 million in cash and 4.9 million shares of common stock valued at $83.5 million on the acquisition date. Team Capital was merged with and into the Company’s subsidiary, The Provident Bank as of the close of business on the date of acquisition. The merger added twelve branches to The Provident Bank branch network, with five branches in Pennsylvania and seven in New Jersey. Critical Accounting Policies The Company considers certain accounting policies to be critically important to the fair presentation of its financial condition and results of operations. These policies require management to make complex judgments on matters which by their nature have elements of uncertainty. The sensitivity of the Company’s consolidated financial statements to these critical accounting policies, and the assumptions and estimates applied, could have a significant impact on its financial condition and results of operations. These assumptions, estimates and judgments made by management can be influenced by a number of factors, including the general economic environment. The Company has identified the following as critical accounting policies: •• Adequacy of the allowance for loan losses •• Goodwill valuation and analysis for impairment •• Valuation of securities available for sale and impairment analysis •• Valuation of deferred tax assets The calculation of the allowance for loan losses is a critical accounting policy of the Company. The allowance for loan losses is a valuation account that reflects management’s evaluation of the probable losses in the loan portfolio. The Company maintains the allowance for loan losses through provisions for loan losses that are charged to income. Charge-offs against the allowance for loan losses are taken on loans where management determines that the collection of loan principal is unlikely. Recoveries made on loans that have been charged-off are credited to the allowance for loan losses. The Company’s evaluation of the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses includes a review of all loans on which the collectibility of principal may not be reasonably assured. For residential mortgage and consumer loans, this is determined primarily by delinquency and collateral values. For commercial real estate and commercial loans, an extensive review of financial performance, payment history and collateral values is conducted on a quarterly basis. As part of the evaluation of the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses, each quarter management prepares an analysis that categorizes the entire loan portfolio by certain risk characteristics such as loan type (residential mortgage, commercial mortgage, construction, commercial, etc.) and loan risk rating. When assigning a risk rating to a loan, management utilizes a nine point internal risk rating system. Loans deemed to be “acceptable quality” are rated 1 through 4, with a rating of 1 established for loans with minimal risk. Loans deemed to be of “questionable quality” are rated 5 (watch) or 6 (special mention). Loans with adverse classifications (substandard, doubtful or loss) are rated 7, 8 or 9, respectively. Commercial mortgage, commercial and construction loans are rated individually and each lending officer 38 is responsible for risk rating loans in their portfolio. These risk ratings are then reviewed by the department manager and/or the Chief Lending Officer and the Credit Administration Department. The risk ratings are also confirmed through periodic loan review examinations, which are currently performed by an independent third party, and periodically by the Credit Committee in the credit renewal or approval. In addition, the Bank requires an annual review be performed for commercial and commercial real estate loans above certain dollar thresholds, depending on loan type, to help determine the appropriate risk rating. Management estimates the amount of loan losses for groups of loans by applying quantitative loss factors to loan segments at the risk rating level, and applying qualitative adjustments to each loan segment at the portfolio level. Quantitative loss factors give consideration to historical loss experience by loan type based upon an appropriate look back period and adjusted for a loss emergence period. Quantitative loss factors are evaluated at least annually. Qualitative adjustments give consideration to other qualitative or environmental factors such as trends and levels of delinquencies, impaired loans, charge-offs, recoveries and loan volumes, as well as national and local economic trends and conditions. Qualitative adjustments reflect risks in the loan portfolio not captured by the quantitative loss factors and, as such, are evaluated from a risk level perspective relative to the risk levels present over the look back period. Qualitative adjustments are evaluated at least quarterly. The reserves resulting from the application of both of these sets of loss factors are combined to arrive at the allowance for loan losses. Management believes the primary risks inherent in the portfolio are a general decline in the economy, a decline in real estate market values, rising unemployment or a protracted period of elevated unemployment, increasing vacancy rates in commercial investment properties and possible increases in interest rates in the absence of economic improvement. Any one or a combination of these events may adversely affect borrowers’ ability to repay the loans, resulting in increased delinquencies, loan losses and future levels of provisions. Accordingly, the Company has provided for loan losses at the current level to address the current risk in its loan portfolio. Management considers it important to maintain the ratio of the allowance for loan losses to total loans at an acceptable level given current economic conditions, interest rates and the composition of the portfolio. Although management believes that the Company has established and maintained the allowance for loan losses at appropriate levels, additions may be necessary if future economic and other conditions differ substantially from the current operating environment. Management evaluates its estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis giving consideration to historical experience and PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II ItEM 7 Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations other factors, including the current economic environment, which management believes to be reasonable under the circumstances. Such estimates and assumptions are adjusted when facts and circumstances dictate. Illiquid credit markets, volatile securities markets, and declines in the housing and commercial real estate markets and the economy generally have combined to increase the uncertainty inherent in such estimates and assumptions. As future events and their effects cannot be determined with precision, actual results could differ significantly from these estimates. Changes in estimates resulting from continuing changes in the economic environment will be reflected in the financial statements in future periods. In addition, various regulatory agencies periodically review the adequacy of the Company’s allowance for loan losses as an integral part of their examination process. Such agencies may require the Company to recognize additions to the allowance or additional write-downs based on their judgments about information available to them at the time of their examination. Although management uses the best information available, the level of the allowance for loan losses remains an estimate that is subject to significant judgment and short-term change. Additional critical accounting policies relate to judgments about other asset impairments, including goodwill, investment securities and deferred tax assets. Goodwill is evaluated for impairment on an annual basis, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate potential impairment between annual measurement dates. Management qualitatively determines whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount before performing Step 1 of the goodwill impairment test. If an entity concludes that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, the entity would be required to perform Step 1 of the assessment and then, if needed, Step 2 to determine whether goodwill is impaired. However, if it is more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit is more than its carrying amount, the entity does not need to apply the two-step impairment test. For this analysis, the Reporting Unit is defined as the Bank, which includes all core and retail banking operations of the Company but excludes the assets, liabilities, equity, earnings and operations held exclusively at the Company level. The guidance provides certain factors an entity should consider in its qualitative assessment in determining whether it is more likely than not that a reporting unit’s fair value is less than its carrying amount. The factors include: •• Macroeconomic conditions, such as deterioration in economic condition and limited access to capital. •• Industry and market considerations, such as increased competition, regulatory developments and decline in market- dependent multiples. •• Cost factors, such as increased labor costs, cost of materials and other operating costs. •• Overall financial performance, such as declining cash flows and decline in revenue or earnings. •• Other relevant entity-specific events, such as changes in management, strategy or customers, litigation and contemplation of bankruptcy. •• Reporting unit events, such as selling or disposing a portion of a reporting unit and a change in composition of assets. The Company may, based upon its qualitative assessment, or at its option, perform the two-step process to evaluate the potential impairment of goodwill. If, based upon Step 1, the fair value of the Reporting Unit exceeds its carrying amount, goodwill of the Reporting Unit is considered not impaired. However, if the carrying amount of the Reporting Unit exceeds its fair value, an additional test must be performed. The second step test compares the implied fair value of the Reporting Unit’s goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill. An impairment loss would be recorded to the extent that the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds its implied fair value. The Company completed its annual goodwill impairment test as of September 30, 2015. Based upon its qualitative assessment of goodwill, the Company concluded it is more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount, such that goodwill was not impaired and no further quantitative analysis (Step 1) was warranted. The Company’s available for sale securities portfolio is carried at estimated fair value, with any unrealized gains or losses, net of taxes, reported as accumulated other comprehensive income or loss in stockholders’ equity. Estimated fair values are based on market quotations or matrix pricing as discussed in Note 16 to the consolidated financial statements. Securities which the Company has the positive intent and ability to hold to maturity are classified as held to maturity and carried at amortized cost. Management conducts a periodic review and evaluation of the securities portfolio to determine if any declines in the fair values of securities are other-than-temporary. In this evaluation, if such a decline were deemed other-than-temporary, Management would measure the total credit-related component of the unrealized loss, and recognize that portion of the loss as a charge to current period earnings. The remaining portion of the unrealized loss would be recognized as an adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive income. The fair value of the securities portfolio is significantly affected by changes in interest rates. In general, as interest rates rise, the fair value of fixed-rate securities decreases and as interest rates fall, the fair value of fixed-rate securities increases. The Company determines if it has the intent to sell these securities or if it is more likely than not that the Company would be required to sell the securities before the anticipated recovery. If either exists, the decline in value is considered other-than-temporary. In its evaluations, the Company did not recognize an other-than-temporary impairment charge on securities for 2015 and 2014, while in 2013, the Company recognized an other-than-temporary impairment of $434,000. The determination of whether deferred tax assets will be realizable is predicated on the reversal of existing deferred tax liabilities, utilization against carry-back years and estimates of future taxable income. Such estimates are subject to management’s judgment. A valuation allowance is established when management is unable to conclude that it is more likely than not that it will realize deferred tax assets based on the nature and timing of these items. The Company did not require a valuation allowance at December 31, 2015. 39 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II ItEM 7 Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations Analysis of Net Interest Income Net interest income represents the difference between income on interest-earning assets and expense on interest-bearing liabilities. Net interest income depends on the relative amounts of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities and the rates of interest earned on such assets and paid on such liabilities. Average Balance Sheet. The following table sets forth certain information for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013. For the periods indicated, the total dollar amount of interest income from average interest-earning assets and the resultant yields, as well as the interest expense on average interest-bearing liabilities is expressed both in dollars and rates. No tax equivalent adjustments were made. Average balances are daily averages. 2015 Average Outstanding Balance Interest Earned/ Paid Average Yield/ Cost For the Years Ended December 31, 2014 Average Outstanding Balance Interest Earned/ Paid Average Yield/ Cost 2013 Average Outstanding Balance Interest Earned/ Paid Average Yield/ Cost $ 22,663 $ 57 0.25 % $ 21,548 $ 53 0.25 % $ 15,240 $ 38 0.25 % 1,431 473,425 1,029,249 1 13,494 20,323 73,162 6,215,347 3,075 254,831 0.04 2.85 1.97 4.20 4.10 1,398 420,161 1,131,496 — 0.02 2.91 2.12 12,263 23,998 1,560 353,639 1,188,253 1 10,987 23,567 63,697 5,599,586 2,477 240,570 3.89 4.30 44,127 4,922,245 1,683 216,501 0.04 3.11 1.98 3.81 4.40 7,815,277 291,781 3.73 7,237,886 279,361 3.86 6,525,064 252,777 3.87 876,723 $ 8,692,000 $ 984,704 2,955,133 784,242 1,603,974 806,296 $ 8,044,182 739,168 $ 7,264,232 1,039 8,045 5,437 27,380 0.11 % $ 963,807 2,812,451 0.27 818,753 0.69 1,338,463 1.71 938 7,733 6,661 25,140 0.10 % $ 928,245 2,652,419 0.27 878,413 0.81 908,778 1.88 960 7,456 9,615 18,736 0.10 % 0.28 1.09 2.06 6,328,053 41,901 0.66 5,933,474 40,472 0.68 5,367,855 36,767 0.68 (Dollars in thousands) Interest-earning assets: Deposits Federal funds sold and short-term investments Investment securities(1) Securities available for sale Federal Home Loan Bank Stock Net loans(2) Total interest-earning assets Non-interest earning assets Total assets Interest-bearing liabilities: Savings deposits Demand deposits Time deposits Borrowed funds Total interest-bearing liabilities Non-interest bearing liabilities: Non-interest bearing deposits Other Non-interest bearing liabilities 1,117,372 70,976 Total Non-Interest Bearing Liabilities Total liabilities 1,188,348 7,516,401 1,175,599 Total liabilities and equity $ 8,692,000 Stockholders’ equity 959,751 59,577 1,019,328 6,952,802 1,091,380 $ 8,044,182 839,258 61,106 900,364 6,268,219 996,013 $ 7,264,232 Net interest income Net interest rate spread Net interest earning assets Net interest margin(3) Ratio of interest-earning assets to total interest- bearing liabilities $249,880 $238,889 $216,010 3.07 % 3.20 % $ 1,304,412 3.18 % 3.30 % $ 1,157,209 3.19 % 3.31 % $ 1,487,224 1.24x 1.22 x 1.22 x (1) Average outstanding balance amounts are at amortized cost. (2) Average outstanding balances are net of the allowance for loan losses, deferred loan fees and expenses, and loan premiums and discounts and include non-accrual loans. (3) Net interest income divided by average interest-earning assets. 40 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II ItEM 7 Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations Rate/Volume Analysis. The following table presents the extent to which changes in interest rates and changes in the volume of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities have affected interest income and interest expense during the periods indicated. Information is provided in each category with respect to: (i) changes attributable to changes in volume (changes in volume multiplied by prior rate); (ii) changes attributable to changes in rate (changes in rate multiplied by prior volume); and (iii) the net change. The changes attributable to the combined impact of volume and rate have been allocated proportionately to the changes due to volume and the changes due to rate. (In thousands) Interest-earning assets: Deposits, Federal funds sold and short-term investments Investment securities Securities available for sale Federal Home Loan Bank Stock Loans Total interest-earning assets Interest-bearing liabilities: Savings deposits Demand deposits Time deposits Borrowed funds Total interest-bearing liabilities Years Ended December 31, 2015 vs. 2014 2014 vs. 2013 Increase/(Decrease) Due to Volume Rate Total Increase/ (Decrease) Increase/(Decrease) Due to Volume Rate Total Increase/ (Decrease) $ 5 $ — $ 5 $ 14 $ — $ 1,524 (2,084) 199 25,600 25,244 21 388 (272) 4,675 4,812 (293) (1,591) 399 (11,339) (12,824) 80 (76) (952) (2,435) (3,383) 1,231 (3,675) 598 14,261 12,420 101 312 (1,224) 2,240 1,429 1,972 (1,157) 760 29,200 30,789 36 442 (618) 8,196 8,056 (696) 1,588 34 (5,131) (4,205) (58) (165) (2,336) (1,792) (4,351) 14 1,276 431 794 24,069 26,584 (22) 277 (2,954) 6,404 3,705 Net interest income $ 20,432 $ (9,441) $ 10,991 $ 22,733 $ 146 $ 22,879 Comparison of Financial Condition at December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 Total assets increased $388.3 million, or 4.6%, to $8.91 billion at December 31, 2015, from $8.52 billion at December 31, 2014, primarily due to a $452.2 million increase in total loans and a $21.9 million increase in intangible assets, partially offset by a $97.3 million decrease in total investments. Total loans increased $452.2 million, or 7.4%, to $6.54 billion at December 31, 2015, from $6.09 billion at December 31, 2014. For the year ended December 31, 2015, loan originations totaling $2.66 billion and loan purchases of $95.3 million were partially offset by repayments of $2.28 billion and loan sales of $11.9 million. Multi-family loans increased $191.8 million to $1.23 billion at December 31, 2015, compared to $1.04 billion at December 31, 2014, commercial loans increased $170.7 million to $1.43 billion at December 31, 2015, compared to $1.26 billion at December 31, 2014, construction loans increased $110.5 million to $331.6 million at December 31, 2015, compared to $221.1 million at December 31, 2014, commercial real estate loans increased $20.3 million to $1.72 billion at December 31, 2015, compared to $1.70 billion at December 31, 2014, residential mortgage loans increased $2.6 million to $1.26 billion at December 31, 2015, compared to $1.25 billion at December 31, 2014, and consumer loans decreased $45.4 million to $566.2 million at December 31, 2015, compared to $611.6 million at December 31, 2014. Commercial loans, consisting of commercial real estate, multi-family, construction and commercial loans, totaled $4.72 billion, accounting for 72.1% of the loan portfolio at December 31, 2015, compared to $4.22 billion, or 69.4% of the loan portfolio at December 31, 2014. The Company intends to continue to focus on the origination of commercially-oriented loans. Retail loans, which consist of one- to four-family residential mortgage and consumer loans, such as fixed-rate home equity loans and lines of credit, totaled $1.82 billion and accounted for 27.9% of the loan portfolio at December 31, 2015, compared to $1.86 billion, or 30.6%, of the loan portfolio at December 31, 2014. The Company does not originate or purchase sub-prime or option ARM loans. Prior to September 30, 2008, the Company originated “Alt-A” mortgages in the form of stated income loans with a maximum loan-to-value ratio of 50% on a limited basis. The balance of these “Alt-A” loans at December 31, 2015 was $6.2 million. Of this total, 6 loans totaling $1.0 million were 90 days or more delinquent. These loans were allocated total loss reserves of $70,506. The Company participates in loans originated by other banks, including participations designated as Shared National Credits (“SNC”). The Company’s gross commitments and outstanding balances as a participant in SNCs were $220.5 million and $155.7 million, respectively, at December 31, 2015. At December 31, 2015, no SNC relationships were classified as substandard. The Company had outstanding junior lien mortgages totaling $247.0 million at December 31, 2015. Of this total, 27 loans totaling $2.0 million were 90 days or more delinquent. These 27 loans were allocated total loss reserves of $488,000. At December 31, 2015, the Company had outstanding indirect marine loans totaling $18.9 million. Of this total, 3 loans totaling $315,000 were 90 days or more delinquent. Marine loans are currently made only on a direct, limited accommodation basis to existing customers. 41 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II ItEM 7 Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations The allowance for loan losses decreased $310,000 to $61.4 million at December 31, 2015, as a result of net charge-offs of $4.7 million, partially offset by provisions for loan losses of $4.4 million during 2015. The reduction in the allowance for loan losses was a function of an improvement in the weighted average risk rating of the loan portfolio and a decline in non-performing loans. Total non- performing loans at December 31, 2015 were $44.5 million, or 0.68% of total loans, compared with $53.9 million, or 0.88% of total loans at December 31, 2014. At December 31, 2015, impaired loans totaled $50.9 million with related specific reserves of $2.3 million, compared with impaired loans totaling $85.4 million with related specific reserves of $7.1 million at December 31, 2014. Within total impaired loans, there were $33.4 million of loans for which the present value of expected future cash flows or current collateral valuations exceeded the carrying amounts of the loans and for which no specific reserves were required in accordance with GAAP. At December 31, 2015, the Company’s allowance for loan losses was 0.94% of total loans, compared with 1.01% of total loans at December 31, 2014. The decline in the loan coverage ratio from December 31, 2014, resulted from an overall improvement in asset quality. Non-performing commercial mortgage loans decreased $18.8 million to $1.3 million at December 31, 2015, from $20.0 million at December 31, 2014. At December 31, 2015, the Company held 8 non-performing commercial mortgage loans. The largest non-performing commercial mortgage loan was a $609,000 loan secured by a first mortgage on a mixed-use property located in Franklin Township, New Jersey. The loan is presently in default. There is no contractual commitment to advance additional funds to this borrower. Non-performing commercial loans increased $11.5 million, to $23.9 million at December 31, 2015, from $12.3 million at December 31, 2014. Non-performing commercial loans at December 31, 2015 consisted of 27 loans. The largest non-performing commercial loan relationship consisted of four loans to a health and fitness club with outstanding balances totaling $6.8 million at December 31, 2015. All of the loans are secured by liens on commercial property. These five loans are presently in default. Non-performing constructions loans amounted to $2.4 million at December 31, 2015. Non-performing construction loans consisted of a single loan to a health and fitness club, which combined with four non-performing commercial loans comprises a $9.2 million loan relationship with this borrower. This non-performing construction loan is presently in default. There were no non-performing construction loans on December 31, 2014. Non-performing residential mortgage loans decreased $5.2 million to $12.0 million at December 31, 2015, from $17.2 million at December 31, 2014. Gross charge-offs of residential loans were $1.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. At December 31, 2015, the Company held $10.5 million of foreclosed assets, compared with $5.1 million at December 31, 2014. Foreclosed assets are carried at fair value based on recent appraisals and valuation estimates, less estimated selling costs. Foreclosed assets consisted primarily of $5.2 million of residential properties, $5.1 million of commercial real estate and $274,000 of marine vessels at December 31, 2015. Non-performing assets totaled $55.1 million, or 0.62% of total assets at December 31, 2015, compared to $59.0 million, or 0.69% of total assets, at December 31, 2014. If the non-accrual loans had performed in accordance with their original terms, interest income would have increased by $1.2 million during the year ended December 31, 2015. The amount of cash basis interest income that was recognized on impaired loans during the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 was not material. Total deposits increased $131.5 million, or 2.3%, during the year ended December 31, 2015 to $5.92 billion from $5.79 billion at December 31, 2014. Core deposits, which consist of savings and demand deposit accounts, increased $217.4 million, or 4.4%, to $5.18 billion at December 31, 2015, while time deposits decreased $86.0 million to $739.7 million at December 31, 2015. Within the core deposit category, non-interest bearing demand deposits and interest bearing demand deposits increased $139.9 million and $115.5 million, respectively, to $1.19 billion and $1.54 billion, respectively, at December 31, 2015. Core deposits represented 87.5% of total deposits at December 31, 2015, compared to 85.7% at December 31, 2014. Borrowed funds increased $197.8 million, or 13.1%, during the year ended December 31, 2015, to $1.71 billion. Borrowed funds represented 19.2% of total assets at December 31, 2015, an increase from 17.7% at December 31, 2014. Total stockholders’ equity increased $52.0 million, or 4.5%, to $1.20 billion at December 31, 2015, from $1.14 billion at December 31, 2014. This increase resulted from net income of $83.7 million, the allocation of shares to stock-based compensation plans of $9.4 million, exercised stock options of $3.2 million, and the reissuance of shares for the dividend reinvestment program of $1.4 million, partially offset by cash dividends paid to stockholders of $41.3 million, other comprehensive loss of $2.6 million and common stock repurchases of $2.0 million. Common stock repurchases for the year ended December 31, 2015 totaled 108,589 shares at an average cost of $18.32 per share. At December 31, 2015, 3.3 million shares remained eligible for repurchase under the current authorization. Comparison of Operating Results for the Years Ended December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 General. Net income for the year ended December 31, 2015 was $83.7 million, compared to $73.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. Basic and diluted earnings per share were $1.33 for the year ended December 31, 2015, compared to basic and diluted earnings per share of $1.22 for 2014. Net income for the year ended December 31, 2015 was favorably impacted by year-over-year growth in both average loans outstanding and average non-interest bearing deposits, growth in non-interest income and improved asset quality. These factors helped offset the unfavorable impact of compression in the net interest margin. Net Interest Income. Net interest income increased $11.0 million to $249.9 million for 2015, from $238.9 million for 2014. The average interest rate spread declined 11 basis point to 3.07% for 2015, from 3.18% for 2014. The net interest margin decreased 10 basis point to 3.20% for 2015, compared to 3.30% for 2014. For the year ended December 31, 2015, net interest income was favorably impacted by the growth in average loans outstanding and average non-interest bearing demand deposits, mitigating the effects of compression in the net interest margin. 42 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II ItEM 7 Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations Interest income increased $12.4 million, or 4.4%, to $291.8 million for 2015, compared to $279.4 million for 2014. The increase in interest income was attributable to an increase in average earning asset balances, partially offset by a decrease in the yield on average interest-earning assets. Average interest-earning assets increased $577.4 million, or 8.0%, to $7.82 billion for 2015, compared to $7.24 billion for 2014. The average outstanding loan balances increased $615.8 million, or 11.0%, to $6.22 billion for 2015 from $5.60 billion for 2014, the average balance of securities available for sale decreased $102.2 million, or 9.0%, to $1.03 billion for 2015, compared to $1.13 billion for 2014, and the average balance of investment securities held to maturity increased $53.3 million, or 12.7%, to $473.4 million for 2015, compared to $420.2 million for 2014. The yield on interest-earning assets decreased 13 basis points to 3.73% for 2015, from 3.86% for 2014, with a reduction in the weighted average yield on total loans and investment securities, partially offset by an increase in the weighted average yield on the Federal Home Loan Bank stock. Interest expense increased $1.4 million, or 3.5%, to $41.9 million for 2015, from $40.5 million for 2014. The increase in interest expense was attributable to an increase in average borrowings, which funded a portion of the growth in average interest-earning assets, partially offset by a shift in the funding composition to lower-costing core deposits from time deposits and a reduction in the average cost of borrowings. Also offsetting the increase in interest expense was a $157.6 million, or 16.4%, increase in average non-interest bearing demand deposits to $1.12 billion for 2015, from $959.8 million for 2014. The average rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities decreased 2 basis points to 0.66% for 2015, compared to 2014. The average rate paid on interest-bearing deposits decreased 2 basis points to 0.31% for 2015, from 0.33% for 2014. The average rate paid on borrowings decreased 17 basis points to 1.71% for 2015, from 1.88% for 2014. The average balance of interest-bearing liabilities increased $394.6 million to $6.33 billion for 2015, compared to $5.93 billion for 2014. Average interest-bearing deposits increased $129.1 million, or 2.8%, to $4.72 billion for 2015, from $4.60 billion for 2014. Within average interest-bearing deposits, average interest- bearing core deposits increased $163.6 million, or 4.3%, for 2015, compared with 2014, while average time deposits decreased $34.5 million, or 4.2%, for 2015, compared with 2014. Average outstanding borrowings increased $265.5 million, or 19.8%, to $1.60 billion for 2015, compared with $1.34 billion for 2014. Provision for Loan Losses. Provisions for loan losses are charged to operations to maintain the allowance for loan losses at a level management considers necessary to absorb probable credit losses inherent in the loan portfolio. In determining the level of the allowance for loan losses, management considers past and current loss experience, evaluations of real estate collateral, current economic conditions, volume and type of lending, adverse situations that may affect a borrower’s ability to repay the loan and the levels of non-performing and other classified loans. The amount of the allowance is based on estimates and the ultimate losses may vary from such estimates as more information becomes available or later events change. Management assesses the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses on a quarterly basis and makes provisions for loan losses, if necessary, in order to maintain the adequacy of the allowance. The Company’s emphasis on continued diversification of the loan portfolio through the origination of commercial loans has been one of the more significant factors management has considered in evaluating the allowance for loan losses and provision for loan losses for the past several years. In the event the Company further increases the amount of such types of loans in the portfolio, management may determine that additional or increased provisions for loan losses are necessary, which could adversely affect earnings. The provision for loan losses was $4.4 million in 2015, compared to $4.7 million in 2014. The decrease in the provision for loan losses was primarily attributable to a decline in non-performing loans and an improvement in the weighted average credit risk ratings of the loan portfolio. Net charge-offs for 2015 were $4.7 million, compared to $7.6 million for 2014. Total charge- offs for the year ended December 31, 2015 were $8.8 million, compared to $10.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. Recoveries for the year ended December 31, 2015, were $4.2 million, compared to $3.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. The allowance for loan losses at December 31, 2015 was $61.4 million, or 0.94% of total loans, compared to $61.7 million, or 1.01% of total loans, at December 31, 2014. At December 31, 2015, non-performing loans as a percentage of total loans were 0.68%, compared to 0.88% at December 31, 2014. Non-performing assets as a percentage of total assets were 0.62% at December 31, 2015, compared to 0.69% at December 31, 2014. At December 31, 2015, non-performing loans were $44.5 million, compared to $53.9 million at December 31, 2014, and non-performing assets were $55.1 million at December 31, 2015, compared to $59.0 million at December 31, 2014. Non-Interest Income. For the year ended December 31, 2015, non- interest income totaled $55.2 million, an increase of $14.1 million, or 34.1%, compared to 2014. Wealth management income increased $7.4 million to $16.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, largely due to $7.0 million in fees resulting from assets under management acquired in the MDE transaction, combined with $450,000 of increased fee income from the Company’s existing wealth management business. Fee income increased $4.4 million, to $26.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, primarily due to a $2.1 million increase in prepayment fees on commercial loans, a $1.3 million increase in deposit related fees and a $710,000 increase in ATM and debit card revenue. Also contributing to the increase in non-interest income, was an increase in other income of $2.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, compared with 2014, principally due to a $2.8 million increase in net fees recognized on loan level interest rate swap transactions, partially offset by a $528,000 decrease in net gains recognized on loan sales and a non-recurring $486,000 net gain recognized on the prepayment of FHLB borrowings acquired from Team Capital in the prior year. Net gains on securities transactions for the year ended December 31, 2015 increased $403,000 as compared to 2014. Non-Interest Expense. Non-interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2015 was $180.6 million, an increase of $10.6 million from the year ended December 31, 2014. Compensation and benefits expense increased $7.5 million to $99.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, compared to the year ended December 31, 2014, due to increased salary expense associated with new employees from both Team Capital and MDE, additional salary expense associated with annual merit increases, an increase in the accrual for incentive compensation and an increase in employee medical benefits expense, partially offset by lower stock- based compensation, severance and pension costs. The decline in pension costs was largely due to the $1.3 million lump-sum pension distributions made to vested retired employees in 2014. Net occupancy costs increased $2.1 million, to $26.0 million for 43 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II ItEM 7 Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations the year ended December 31, 2015, compared to same period in 2014, principally due to additional costs related to facilities acquired in the Team Capital acquisition and increased depreciation expense. The amortization of intangibles increased $1.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, compared with the same period in 2014, primarily due to increases in both the core deposit intangible and customer relationship intangible amortization related to the Team Capital and MDE acquisitions, respectively. Other operating expenses increased $1.1 million to $28.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, compared to $27.7 million for the same period in 2014, primarily due to valuation adjustments related to foreclosed real estate, and increases in business development and personnel recruitment expenses. Partially offsetting these increases in non-interest expense, data processing costs decreased $969,000 to $12.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, compared with the year ended December 31, 2014, principally due to $2.4 million of non-recurring core system contract termination costs related to the Team Capital acquisition in 2014, partially offset by increased software maintenance costs and telecommunication expenses. Additionally, advertising and promotion expense decreased $782,000 to $4.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, compared to $5.0 million for the same period in 2014, largely due to post-merger promotional activities within the former Team Capital marketplace incurred in the prior year. Income Tax Expense. For the year ended December 31, 2015, the Company’s income tax expense was $36.4 million, compared with $31.8 million, for the same period in 2014. The Company’s effective tax rate was 30.3% for the year ended December 31, 2015, compared with 30.2% for the year ended December 31, 2014. For the year ended December 31, 2015, the increases in income tax expense and the effective tax rate were a function of growth in pre-tax income, with a greater portion of income derived from taxable sources. Comparison of Operating Results for the Years Ended December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 General. Net income for the year ended December 31, 2014 was $73.6 million, compared to $70.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. Basic and diluted earnings per share were $1.22 for the year ended December 31, 2014, compared to basic and diluted earnings per share of $1.23 for 2013. Operating results for year ended December 31, 2014 included non-recurring items associated with the acquisition of Team Capital Bank of $3.9 million, net of taxes. Additionally, earnings for the year ended December 31, 2014 were impacted by a $788,000, net of tax, non-cash charge due to the recognition of a pro rata portion of unrealized losses related to lump sum distributions from the Company’s previously frozen pension plan. Net income for the year ended December 31, 2013 included the non-core write-off of a deferred tax asset related to expired non-qualified stock options issued shortly after the Company’s 2003 initial public offering. The write-off in 2013 of the related $3.9 million deferred tax asset resulted in a $3.2 million charge to income tax expense and a $735,000 charge to equity in the third quarter of 2013. Net Interest Income. Net interest income increased $22.9 million to $238.9 million for 2014, from $216.0 million for 2013. The average net interest rate spread declined 1 basis point to 3.18% for 2014, from 3.19% for 2013. The net interest margin decreased 1 basis point to 3.30% for 2014, compared to 3.31% for 2013. For the year ended December 31, 2014, net interest income was favorably impacted by the assets acquired from Team Capital and growth in non-interest bearing demand deposits, which was mitigated by compression in the net interest margin. Interest income increased $26.6 million, or 10.5%, to $279.4 million for 2014, compared to $252.8 million for 2013. The increase in interest income was attributable to an increase in average earning asset balances, partially offset by a decrease in the yield on average earning assets. Average interest-earning assets increased $712.8 million, or 10.9%, to $7.24 billion for 2014, compared to $6.53 billion for 2013. The average outstanding loan balances increased $677.3 million, or 13.8%, to $5.60 billion for 2014 from $4.92 billion for 2013, the average balance of securities available for sale decreased $56.8 million, or 4.8%, to $1.13 billion for 2014, compared to $1.19 billion for 2013, and the average balance of investment securities held to maturity increased $66.5 million, or 18.8%, to $420.2 million for 2014, compared to $353.6 million for 2013. The yield on interest-earning assets decreased 1 basis point to 3.86% for 2014, from 3.87% for 2013, with a reduction in the weighted average yield on total loans partially offset by an increase in the weighted average yield on total securities. Interest expense increased $3.7 million, or 10.1%, to $40.5 million for 2014, from $36.8 million for 2013. The increase in interest expense was attributable to an increase in average borrowings, which funded a portion of the growth in average interest-earning assets, partially offset by a shift in the funding composition to lower-costing core deposits from time deposits and a reduction in the average cost of borrowings. Also offsetting the increase in interest expense was a $120.5 million, or 14.4% increase in average non-interest bearing demand deposits to $959.8 million for 2014, from $839.3 million for 2013. The average rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities remained unchanged at 0.68% for 2014, compared to 2013. The average rate paid on interest-bearing deposits decreased 7 basis points to 0.33% for 2014, from 0.40% for 2013. The average rate paid on borrowings decreased 18 basis points to 1.88% for 2014, from 2.06% for 2013. The average balance of interest-bearing liabilities increased $565.6 million to $5.93 billion for 2014, compared to $5.37 billion for 2013. Average interest-bearing deposits increased $135.9 million, or 3.05%, to $4.60 billion for 2014, from $4.46 billion for 2013. Within average interest-bearing deposits, average interest-bearing core deposits increased $195.6 million, or 5.5%, for 2014, compared with 2013, while average time deposits decreased $59.7 million, or 6.79%, for 2014, compared with 2013. Average outstanding borrowings increased $429.7 million, or 47.3%, to $1.34 billion for 2014, compared with $908.8 million for 2013. Provision for Loan Losses. The provision for loan losses was $4.7 million in 2014, compared to $5.5 million in 2013. The decrease in the provision for loan losses was primarily attributable to a decline in non-performing loan formation and an improvement in the weighted average credit risk ratings of the loan portfolio. Net charge-offs for 2014 were $7.6 million, compared to $11.2 million for 2013. Total charge-offs for the year ended December 31, 2014 were $10.9 million, compared to $14.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. Recoveries for the year ended December 31, 2014, were $3.3 million, compared to $3.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. The allowance for loan losses at December 31, 2014 was $61.7 million, or 1.01% of total loans, compared to $64.7 million, or 1.24% of total loans at December 31, 2013. In 44 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II ItEM 7 Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations addition to improvements in asset quality, the reduction in the ratio for allowance for loan losses to loans reflects the acquisition of loans from Team Capital at fair value in 2014. At December 31, 2014, non-performing loans as a percentage of total loans were 0.88%, compared to 1.48% at December 31, 2013. Non- performing assets as a percentage of total assets were 0.69% at December 31, 2014, compared to 1.10% at December 31, 2013. At December 31, 2014, non-performing loans were $53.9 million, compared to $76.7 million at December 31, 2013, and non-performing assets were $59.0 million at December 31, 2014, compared to $82.2 million at December 31, 2013. Non-Interest Income. For the year ended December 31, 2014, non- interest income totaled $41.2 million, a decrease of $3.0 million, or 6.8%, compared to 2013. Fee income decreased $4.1 million, to $21.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2014, compared to 2013, largely due to a $4.0 million decrease in prepayment fees on commercial loans. BOLI income decreased $963,000 for the year ended December 31, 2014, principally due to lower death benefits recognized in the year ended December 31, 2014, compared to 2013, partially offset by income recognized on BOLI assets acquired from Team Capital. Also contributing to the decline in non-interest income, net gains on securities transactions for the year ended December 31, 2014 declined $745,000 as compared to 2013. These decreases were partially offset by a $1.4 million increase in wealth management income resulting from improved market conditions and a $989,000 increase in other income for the year ended December 31, 2014, compared with 2013. The increase in other income was primarily due to a $486,000 gain recognized on the prepayment of FHLB borrowings acquired from Team Capital, and a $787,000 gain recognized on loan level interest rate swap transactions, partially offset by a reduction in gains on loan sales. Additionally, for the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company recognized a $434,000 other-than-temporary impairment charge related to an investment in a non-agency mortgage-backed security. Non-Interest Expense. Non-interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2014 was $170.0 million, an increase of $21.2 million from the year ended December 31, 2013. Non-interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2014 included $6.6 million of Liquidity and Capital Resources non-recurring costs related to the acquisition of Team Capital. Compensation and benefits expense increased $9.2 million to $92.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2014, compared to the year ended December 31, 2013, due to increased salary expense, $1.7 million of severance and retention expense associated with Team Capital, $1.3 million of pension costs associated with lump-sum pension distributions made to vested terminated employees and increased stock-based compensation. Net occupancy costs increased $3.4 million, to $24.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2014, compared to the year ended December 31, 2013, principally due to additional facilities costs related to Team Capital, increased seasonal maintenance expense in the first quarter of 2014 related to the harsh winter conditions and increased depreciation expense. Other operating expenses increased $3.3 million to $27.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2014, compared to $24.5 million for the same period in 2013, primarily due to non-recurring professional services and customer communication costs related to the Team Capital acquisition. In addition, data processing expense increased $3.1 million to $13.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2014, compared to $10.6 million for the same period in 2013, principally due to $2.4 million of non-recurring core system contract termination costs related to the Team Capital acquisition and increased software maintenance and telecommunication expenses. The amortization of intangibles increased $1.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2014, compared with the same period in 2013, primarily due to increases in the core deposit intangible amortization related to the Team Capital acquisition, while advertising and promotion expense increased $1.1 million, largely due to post-merger promotional activities within the former Team Capital marketplace during 2014. Income Tax Expense. For the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company’s income tax expense was $31.8 million, compared with $35.4 million, for the same period in 2013. The Company’s effective tax rate was 30.2% for the year ended December 31, 2014, compared with 33.4% for the year ended December 31, 2013. The decreases in income tax expense and the effective tax rate were principally due to a $3.2 million charge associated with the write-off of a deferred tax asset related to expired non-qualified stock options in 2013. Liquidity refers to the Company’s ability to generate adequate amounts of cash to meet financial obligations to its depositors, to fund loans and securities purchases, deposit outflows and operating expenses. Sources of funds include scheduled amortization of loans, loan prepayments, scheduled maturities of investments, cash flows from mortgage-backed securities and the ability to borrow funds from the FHLB of New York and approved broker dealers. Cash flows from loan payments and maturing investment securities are a fairly predictable source of funds. Changes in interest rates, local economic conditions and the competitive marketplace can influence loan prepayments, prepayments on mortgage- backed securities and deposit flows. For each of the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, loan repayments totaled $2.28 billion and $1.65 billion, respectively. One- to four-family residential loans, consumer loans, commercial real estate loans, multi-family loans and commercial and small business loans are the primary investments of the Company. Purchasing securities for the investment portfolio is a secondary use of funds and the investment portfolio is structured to complement and facilitate the Company’s lending activities and ensure adequate liquidity. Loan originations and purchases totaled $2.75 billion for the year ended December 31, 2015, compared to $1.94 billion for the year ended December 31, 2014. Purchases for the investment portfolio totaled $174.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, compared to $137.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. At December 31, 2015, the Bank had outstanding loan commitments to borrowers of $1.15 billion, including undisbursed home equity lines and personal credit lines of $287.9 million. 45 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II ItEM 7 Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations Total deposits increased $131.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. Deposit activity is affected by changes in interest rates, competitive pricing and product offerings in the marketplace, local economic conditions, customer confidence and other factors such as stock market volatility. Certificate of deposit accounts that are scheduled to mature within one year totaled $499.2 million at December 31, 2015. Based on its current pricing strategy and customer retention experience, the Bank expects to retain a significant share of these accounts. The Bank manages liquidity on a daily basis and expects to have sufficient cash to meet all of its funding requirements. As of December 31, 2015, the Bank exceeded all minimum regulatory capital requirements. At December 31, 2015, the Bank’s leverage (Tier 1) capital ratio was 8.42%. FDIC regulations require banks to maintain a minimum leverage ratio of Tier 1 capital to adjusted total assets of 4.00%. At December 31, 2015, the Bank’s total risk-based capital ratio was 11.53%. Under current regulations, the minimum required ratio of total capital to risk-weighted assets is 8.00%. A bank is considered to be well-capitalized if it has a leverage (Tier 1) capital ratio of at least 5.00% and a total risk- based capital ratio of at least 10.00%. Off-Balance Sheet and Contractual Obligations Off-balance sheet and contractual obligations as of December 31, 2015, are summarized below: (In thousands) Off-Balance Sheet: Long-term commitments Letters of credit Total Off-Balance Sheet Contractual Obligations: Operating leases Certificate of deposits Total Contractual Obligations Total Payments Due by Period Total Less than 1 year 1-3 years 3-5 years More than 5 years $ 1,139,807 $ 512,021 $ 341,403 $ 6,092 $ 280,291 14,538 1,154,345 37,540 739,721 777,261 13,049 525,070 6,838 499,221 506,059 1,273 342,676 11,793 132,507 144,300 216 6,308 — 280,291 10,067 106,943 117,010 8,842 1,050 9,892 $ 1,931,606 $ 1,031,129 $ 486,976 $ 123,318 $ 290,183 Off-balance sheet commitments consist of unused commitments to borrowers for term loans, unused lines of credit and outstanding letters of credit. Total off-balance sheet obligations were $1.15 billion at December 31, 2015, a decrease of $54.3 million, or 4.5%, from $1.2 billion at December 31, 2014. Contractual obligations consist of operating leases and certificate of deposit liabilities. There were no securities purchases in 2015 and 2014 which settled in 2016 and 2015, respectively. Total contractual obligations at December 31, 2015 were $777.3 million, an decrease of $90.7 million, or 10.45%, compared to $868.0 million at December 31, 2014. Contractual obligations under operating leases decreased $4.7 million, or 11.18%, to $37.5 million at December 31, 2015, from $42.3 million at December 31, 2014, and certificate of deposit accounts increased $86.0 million, or 10.4%, to $739.7 million at December 31, 2015, from $825.7 million at December 31, 2014. 46 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II ItEM 7A Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk ITEM 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk Qualitative Analysis. Interest rate risk is the exposure of a bank’s current and future earnings and capital arising from adverse movements in interest rates. The guidelines of the Company’s interest rate risk policy seek to limit the exposure to changes in interest rates that affect the underlying economic value of assets and liabilities, earnings and capital. To minimize interest rate risk, the Company generally sells 20- and 30-year fixed-rate mortgage loans at origination. Commercial real estate loans generally have interest rates that reset in five years, and other commercial loans such as construction loans and commercial lines of credit reset with changes in the Prime rate, the Federal funds rate or LIBOR. Investment securities purchases generally have maturities of five years or less, and mortgage-backed securities have weighted average lives initially between three and five years. The Asset/Liability Committee meets on at least a monthly basis to review the impact of interest rate changes on net interest income, net interest margin, net income and economic value of equity. Members of the Asset/Liability Committee include the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as well as other senior officers from the Bank’s finance, lending, credit, retail banking and corporate operations departments. The Asset/Liability Committee reviews a variety of strategies that project changes in asset or liability mix and the impact of those changes on projected net interest income and net income. The Company’s strategy for liabilities has been to maintain a stable core-funding base by focusing on core deposit account acquisition and increasing products and services per household. Certificate of deposit accounts as a percentage of total deposits were 12.5% at December 31, 2015, compared to 14.3% at December 31, 2014. Certificate of deposit accounts are generally short-term. As of December 31, 2015, 67.5% of all certificates of deposit had maturities of one year or less compared to 68.8% at December 31, 2014. The Company’s ability to retain maturing certificate of deposit accounts is reliant upon remaining competitively priced within the marketplace. The Company’s pricing strategy may vary depending upon funding needs and the Company’s ability to fund operations through alternative sources, primarily by accessing short-term lines of credit with the FHLB of New York during periods of pricing dislocation. Quantitative Analysis. Current and future sensitivity to changes in interest rates are measured through the use of balance sheet and income simulation models. The analyses capture changes in net interest income using flat rates as a base, a most likely rate forecast and rising and declining interest rate forecasts. Changes in net interest income and net income for the forecast period, generally twelve to twenty-four months, are measured and compared to policy limits for acceptable change. The Company periodically reviews historical deposit repricing activity and makes modifications to certain assumptions used in its income simulation model regarding the interest rate sensitivity of deposits without maturity dates. These modifications are made to more precisely reflect the most likely results under the various interest rate change scenarios. Since it is inherently difficult to predict the sensitivity of interest bearing deposits to changes in interest rates, the changes in net interest income due to changes in interest rates cannot be precisely predicted. There are a variety of reasons that may cause actual results to vary considerably from the predictions presented below which include, but are not limited to, the timing, magnitude, and frequency of changes in interest rates, interest rate spreads, prepayments, and actions taken in response to such changes. Specific assumptions used in the simulation model include: •• Parallel yield curve shifts for market rates; •• Current asset and liability spreads to market interest rates are fixed; •• Traditional savings and interest bearing demand accounts move at 10% of the rate ramp in either direction; •• Retail Money Market and Business Money Market accounts move at 25% and 75% of the rate ramp in either direction, respectively; and •• Higher-balance demand deposit tiers and promotional demand accounts move at 50% to 75% of the rate ramp in either direction. The following table sets forth the results of the twelve month projected net interest income model as of December 31, 2015. (Dollars in thousands) Change in Interest Rates in Basis Points (Rate Ramp) -100 Static +100 +200 +300 Net Interest Income Amount ($) Change ($) Change (%) 246,162 251,866 249,704 247,516 245,694 (5,704) — (2,162) (4,350) (6,172) (2.3) — (0.9) (1.7) (2.5) The above table indicates that as of December 31, 2015, in the event of a 300 basis point increase in interest rates, whereby rates ramp up evenly over a twelve-month period, the Company would experience a 2.5%, or $6.2 million decrease in net interest income. In the event of a 100 basis point decrease in interest rates, whereby rates ramp down evenly over a twelve-month period, the Company would experience a 2.3%, or $5.7 million decrease in net interest income. 47 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II ItEM 7A Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk Another measure of interest rate sensitivity is to model changes in economic value of equity through the use of immediate and sustained interest rate shocks. The following table illustrates the economic value of equity model results as of December 31, 2015. (Dollars in thousands) Change in Interest Rates (Basis Points) -100 Flat +100 +200 +300 Present Value of Equity Dollar Amount 1,353,475 1,328,880 1,294,830 1,244,796 1,192,065 Dollar Change 24,595 — (34,050) (84,084) (136,815) Present Value of Equity as Percent of Present Value of Assets Percent Change Present Value Ratio Percent Change 1.9 — (2.6) (6.3) (10.3) 14.8 14.7 14.4 14.0 13.5 1.1 — (1.8) (4.6) (7.7) The preceding table indicates that as of December 31, 2015, in the event of an immediate and sustained 300 basis point increase in interest rates, the Company would experience a 10.3%, or $136.8 million reduction in the present value of equity. If rates were to decrease 100 basis points, the Company would experience a 1.9%, or $24.6 million increase in the present value of equity. Certain shortcomings are inherent in the methodologies used in the above interest rate risk measurements. Modeling changes in net interest income requires the making of certain assumptions regarding prepayment and deposit decay rates, which may or may not reflect the manner in which actual yields and costs respond to changes in market interest rates. While management believes such assumptions are reasonable, there can be no assurance that assumed prepayment rates and decay rates will approximate actual future loan prepayment and deposit withdrawal activity. Moreover, the net interest income table presented assumes that the composition of interest sensitive assets and liabilities existing at the beginning of a period remains constant over the period being measured and also assumes that a particular change in interest rates is reflected uniformly across the yield curve regardless of the duration to maturity or repricing of specific assets and liabilities. Accordingly, although the net interest income table provides an indication of the Company’s interest rate risk exposure at a particular point in time, such measurement is not intended to and does not provide a precise forecast of the effect of changes in market interest rates on net interest income and will differ from actual results. 48 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report ITEM 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data PART II ItEM 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data The following are included in this item: (A) Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (B) Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting (C) Consolidated Financial Statements: (1) Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 (2) Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 (3) Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 (4) Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 (5) Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 (6) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (D) Provident Financial Services, Inc., Condensed Financial Statements: (1) Condensed Statement of Financial Condition as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 (2) Condensed Statement of Income for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 (3) Condensed Statement of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 The supplementary data required by this Item is provided in Note 19 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. 49 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II ItEM 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm The Board of Directors and Stockholders Provident Financial Services, Inc.: We have audited the accompanying consolidated statements of financial condition of Provident Financial Services, Inc. and subsidiary (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, changes in stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2015. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits. We 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 consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Provident Financial Services, Inc. and subsidiary as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the three-year 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), the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2015, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”), and our report dated February 29, 2016 expressed an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. /s/ KPMG LLP Short Hills, New Jersey February 29, 2016 50 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II ItEM 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting The Board of Directors and Stockholders Provident Financial Services, Inc.: We have audited Provident Financial Services, Inc.’s (the “Company”) internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2015, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”). The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We 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 and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audit also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion. 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, Provident Financial Services, Inc. and subsidiary maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2015, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the COSO. We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated statements of financial condition of Provident Financial Services, Inc. and subsidiary as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, changes in stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2015, and our report dated February 29, 2016 expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements. /s/ KPMG LLP Short Hills, New Jersey February 29, 2016 51 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II ItEM 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data Provident Financial Services, Inc. and Subsidiary Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition DECEMBER 31, 2015 AND 2014 (Dollars in Thousands, except share data) ASSETS Cash and due from banks Short-term investments Total cash and cash equivalents Securities available for sale, at fair value Investment securities held to maturity (fair value of $488,331 and $482,473 at December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively) Federal Home Loan Bank Stock Loans Less allowance for loan losses Net loans Foreclosed assets, net Banking premises and equipment, net Accrued interest receivable Intangible assets Bank-owned life insurance Other assets Total assets LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY Deposits: Demand deposits Savings deposits Certificates of deposit of $100,000 or more Other time deposits Total deposits Mortgage escrow deposits Borrowed funds Other liabilities Total liabilities Stockholders’ Equity: December 31, 2015 2014 $ 100,899 $ 1,327 102,226 964,534 473,684 78,181 6,537,674 61,424 6,476,250 10,546 88,987 25,766 426,277 183,057 82,149 102,484 1,278 103,762 1,074,395 469,528 69,789 6,085,505 61,734 6,023,771 5,098 92,990 25,228 404,422 177,712 76,682 $ $ 8,911,657 $ 8,523,377 4,198,788 $ 3,971,487 985,478 324,215 415,506 5,923,987 23,345 1,707,632 60,628 7,715,592 995,347 342,072 483,617 5,792,523 21,649 1,509,851 55,255 7,379,278 Preferred stock, $0.01 par value, 50,000,000 shares authorized, none issued — — Common stock, $0.01 par value, 200,000,000 shares authorized, 83,209,293 shares issued and 65,489,354 shares outstanding at December 31, 2015, and 83,209,293 shares issued and 64,905,905 shares outstanding at December 31, 2014, respectively Additional paid-in capital Retained earnings Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income Treasury stock Unallocated common stock held by the Employee Stock Ownership Plan Common stock acquired by the Directors’ Deferred Fee Plan Deferred compensation—Directors’ Deferred Fee Plan Total stockholders’ equity Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity 832 1,000,810 507,713 (2,546) (269,014) (41,730) (6,517) 6,517 1,196,065 $ 8,911,657 $ 832 995,053 465,276 29 (271,779) (45,312) (7,113) 7,113 1,144,099 8,523,377 52 See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report Provident Financial Services, Inc. and Subsidiary PART II ItEM 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data Consolidated Statements of Income YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2015, 2014 AND 2013 (Dollars in Thousands, except share data) Interest income: Real estate secured loans Commercial loans Consumer loans Securities available for sale and Federal Home Loan Bank stock Investment securities held to maturity Deposits, Federal funds sold and other short-term investments Total interest income Interest expense: Deposits Borrowed funds Total interest expense Net interest income Provision for loan losses Net interest income after provision for loan losses Non-interest income: Fees Wealth management income Bank-owned life insurance Other-than-temporary impairment losses on securities Portion of loss recognized in other comprehensive income (before taxes) Net impairment losses on securities recognized in earnings Net gain on securities transactions Other income Total non-interest income Non-interest expense: Compensation and employee benefits Net occupancy expense Data processing expense FDIC Insurance Advertising and promotion expense Amortization of intangibles Other operating expenses Total non-interest expenses Income before income tax expense Income tax expense Net income Basic earnings per share Average basic shares outstanding Diluted earnings per share Average diluted shares outstanding Years ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 $ 176,714 $ 166,700 $ 55,347 22,770 23,398 13,494 58 291,781 14,521 27,380 41,901 249,880 4,350 245,530 26,282 16,838 5,345 — — — 654 6,103 55,222 50,115 23,755 26,475 12,263 53 279,361 15,332 25,140 40,472 238,889 4,650 234,239 21,925 9,420 5,633 — — — 251 3,939 41,168 152,429 40,428 23,644 25,250 10,987 39 252,777 18,031 18,736 36,767 216,010 5,500 210,510 26,033 8,012 6,596 (434) — (434) 996 2,950 44,153 99,689 26,032 12,698 5,036 4,226 4,066 28,842 180,589 120,163 36,441 83,722 $ 1.33 $ 92,218 23,958 13,667 4,662 5,008 2,757 27,721 169,991 105,416 31,785 73,631 $ 1.22 $ 62,945,669 60,388,398 1.33 $ 1.22 $ 63,114,718 60,562,070 83,000 20,560 10,550 4,678 3,890 1,624 24,461 148,763 105,900 35,366 70,534 1.23 57,236,909 1.23 57,361,443 $ $ $ See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. 53 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II ItEM 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data Provident Financial Services, Inc. and Subsidiary Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2015, 2014 AND 2013 (Dollars in Thousands) Net income Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax: Unrealized gains and losses on securities available for sale: Net unrealized (losses) gains arising during the period Reclassification adjustment for gains included in net income Total Other-than-temporary impairment on debt securities available for sale: Other-than-temporary impairment losses on securities Reclassification adjustment for impairment losses included in net income Total Unrealized losses on derivatives Amortization related to post-retirement obligations Total other comprehensive (loss) income Total comprehensive income Years ended December 31, 2015 2014 $ 83,722 $ 73,631 $ (3,401) (391) (3,792) — — — (73) 1,290 (2,575) 10,692 (150) 10,542 — — — — (5,662) 4,880 $ 81,147 $ 78,511 $ 2013 70,534 (19,428) (589) (20,017) — 257 257 — 7,193 (12,567) 57,967 See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. 54 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II ITEM 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data Provident Financial Services, Inc. and Subsidiary Consolidated Statement of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2015, 2014 AND 2013 Common Stock Additional Paid-In Capital Retained Earnings Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Treasury Stock Unallocated ESOP Shares Common Stock Acquired by DDFP Deferred Compensation DDFP Total Stockholders’ Equity (Dollars in Thousands) Balance at December 31, 2012 $ Net income Other comprehensive loss, net of tax Cash dividends paid Distributions from DDFP Purchases of treasury stock Shares issued dividend reinvestment plan Option exercises Allocation of ESOP shares Allocation of SAP shares Allocation of stock options Balance at December 31, 2013 $ 832 $1,021,507 $ 389,549 $ 7,716 $ (386,270) $ (52,088) $ (7,298) $ 7,298 $ 981,246 — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — (57) (134) (15) 4,546 297 70,534 — — (32,320) — — — — — — — (12,567) — — — — — — — — — — — — (5,899) 1,301 488 — — — — — — — — — — 3,333 — — — — — 93 — — — — — — — 70,534 — $ — (12,567) (32,320) (93) — — — — — — — (5,899) 1,244 354 3,318 4,546 297 832 $1,026,144 $ 427,763 $ (4,851) $ (390,380) $ (48,755) $ (7,205) $ 7,205 $ 1,010,753 55 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data Provident Financial Services, Inc. and Subsidiary Consolidated Statement of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity (Continued) FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2015, 2014 AND 2013 Common Stock Additional Paid-In Capital Retained Earnings Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Treasury Stock Unallocated ESOP Shares Common Stock Acquired by DDFP Deferred Compensation DDFP Total Stockholders’ Equity (Dollars in Thousands) Balance at December 31, 2013 $ Net income Other comprehensive income, net of tax Cash dividends paid Distributions from DDFP Purchases of treasury stock Treasury shares issued – Team Capital Acquisition Shares issued dividend reinvestment plan Option exercises Allocation of ESOP shares Allocation of SAP shares Reclassification of Stock awards Allocation of Treasury Shares Allocation of stock options Balance at December 31, 2014 $ 832 $ 1,026,144 $ 427,763 $ (4,851) $ (390,380) $ (48,755) $ (7,205) $ 7,205 $ 1,010,753 — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — (962) — (49) 107 6,555 (32,787) (4,253) 298 73,631 — (36,118) — — — — — — — — — — — 4,880 — — — — — — — (4,420) — 84,479 — — — — — — — 1,336 166 — — 32,787 4,253 — — — — — — — — — 3,443 — — — — — — — 92 — — — — — — — — — — — — (92) — — — — — — — — — 73,631 4,880 (36,118) — (4,420) 83,517 1,336 117 3,550 6,555 — — 298 832 $ 995,053 $ 465,276 $ 29 $ (271,779) $ (45,312) $ (7,113) $ 7,113 $ 1,144,099 56 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data Provident Financial Services, Inc. and Subsidiary Consolidated Statement of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity (Continued) FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2015, 2014 AND 2013 Common Stock Additional Paid-In Capital Retained Earnings Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Treasury Stock Unallocated ESOP Shares Common Stock Acquired by DDFP Deferred Compensation DDFP Total Stockholders’ Equity (Dollars in Thousands) Balance at December 31, 2014 $ Net income Other comprehensive loss, net of tax Cash dividends paid Distributions from DDFP Purchases of treasury stock Shares issued dividend reinvestment plan Option exercises Allocation of ESOP shares Allocation of SAP shares Allocation of stock options Balance at December 31, 2015 $ 832 $ 995,053 $ 465,276 $ 29 $ (271,779) $ (45,312) $ (7,113) $ 7,113 $ 1,144,099 — — — — — — — — — — — — — 85 — 143 (283) 467 5,073 272 83,722 — — (41,285) — — — — — — — (2,575) — — — — — — — — — — — — (1,988) 1,304 3,449 — — — — — — — — — — 3,582 — — — — — — — — 83,722 (2,575) (41,285) 596 (596) 85 — — — — — — — — — — — — (1,988) 1,447 3,166 4,049 5,073 272 832 $ 1,000,810 $ 507,713 $ (2,546) $ (269,014) $ (41,730) $ (6,517) $ 6,517 $ 1,196,065 See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. 57 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data Provident Financial Services, Inc. and Subsidiary Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2015, 2014 AND 2013 (Dollars in Thousands) Cash flows from operating activities: Years Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Net income Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: $ 83,722 $ 73,631 $ 70,534 Depreciation and amortization of intangibles Provision for loan losses Deferred tax expense Increase in cash surrender value of Bank-owned Life Insurance Net amortization of premiums and discounts on securities Accretion of net deferred loan fees Amortization of premiums on purchased loans, net Net increase in loans originated for sale Proceeds from sales of loans originated for sale Proceeds from sales of foreclosed assets ESOP expense Allocation of stock award shares Allocation of stock options Net gain on sale of loans Net gain on securities transactions Impairment charge on securities Net gain on sale of premises and equipment Net gain on sale of foreclosed assets (Increase) decrease in accrued interest receivable (Increase) decrease in other assets Increase in other liabilities Net cash provided by operating activities Cash flows from investing activities: Proceeds from maturities, calls and paydowns of investment securities held to maturity Purchases of investment securities held to maturity Proceeds from sales of securities available for sale Proceeds from maturities calls and paydowns of securities available for sale Purchases of securities available for sale Net increase in Federal Home Loan Bank stock Net cash and cash equivalents (paid) received in acquisition BOLI benefits paid Purchases of loans Net increase in loans Proceeds from sales of premises and equipment Purchases of premises and equipment Net cash used in investing activities 13,714 4,350 326 (5,345) 10,613 (4,624) 1,100 (11,918) 12,799 4,443 2,997 4,625 272 (881) (654) — (4) (592) (538) (4,912) 5,373 114,866 37,271 (44,254) 14,005 212,095 (129,720) (8,392) (25,855) 776 (95,283) (363,436) 19 (5,909) (408,683) 11,133 4,650 3,666 (5,633) 10,461 (3,364) 694 (12,609) 14,018 6,494 2,654 6,359 298 (1,409) (251) — (5) (516) 787 (10,660) 7,721 108,119 41,057 (73,397) 25,033 207,531 (63,835) (11,719) 68,650 — (130,540) (129,240) 1,903 (16,441) (80,998) 8,776 5,500 5,531 (6,596) 12,942 (3,877) 1,286 (30,977) 32,447 13,686 2,559 4,869 297 (1,470) (996) 434 (42) (403) 1,046 4,202 173 119,921 97,974 (97,964) 14,834 351,472 (303,334) (20,527) — — (34,766) (259,359) 35 (7,709) (259,344) 58 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data Provident Financial Services, Inc. and Subsidiary Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Continued) YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2015, 2014 AND 2013 (Dollars in Thousands) Cash flows from financing activities: Net increase (decrease) in deposits Increase (decrease) in mortgage escrow deposits Purchase of treasury stock Cash dividends paid to stockholders Shares issued to dividend reinvestment plan Stock options exercised Proceeds from long-term borrowings Payments on long-term borrowings Net increase (decrease) in short-term borrowings Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period Cash and cash equivalents at end of period Cash paid during the period for: Interest on deposits and borrowings Income taxes Non cash investing activities: Transfer of loans receivable to foreclosed assets Acquisition: Non-cash assets acquired: Investment securities available for sale Loans Bank-owned life insurance Goodwill and other intangible assets, net Other assets Total non-cash assets acquired Liabilities assumed: Deposits Borrowings Other Liabilities Total liabilities assumed Common stock issued for acquisitions Years Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 131,464 1,696 (1,988) (41,285) 1,447 3,166 694,937 (549,935) 52,779 292,281 (1,536) 103,762 102,226 $ (179,886) 1,250 (4,420) (36,118) 1,336 117 595,063 (289,757) (112,168) (24,583) 2,538 101,224 103,762 $ (226,504) (666) (5,899) (32,320) 1,244 354 301,000 (79,090) 178,705 136,824 (2,599) 103,823 101,224 41,663 $ 40,620 $ 39,952 $ 25,776 $ 36,727 29,119 10,074 $ 5,382 $ 6,602 — $ — — 25,323 1,270 26,593 $ — $ — 400 400 $ — $ 157,635 $ 631,209 22,319 50,222 33,939 895,324 $ 769,936 $ 112,835 (2,314) 880,457 $ 83,517 $ — — — — — — — — — — — $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. 59 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data Provident Financial Services, Inc. and Subsidiary Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements NOTE 1 Summary of Significant Accounting Policies ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 61 NOTE 2 Stockholders’ Equity and Acquisitions ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 66 NOTE 3 Restrictions on Cash and Due from Banks ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 68 NOTE 4 Investment Securities Held to Maturity ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 68 NOTE 5 Securities Available for Sale ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 69 NOTE 6 Loans Receivable and Allowance for Loan Losses����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 71 NOTE 7 Banking Premises and Equipment ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 77 NOTE 8 Intangible Assets ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 78 NOTE 9 Deposits ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 78 NOTE 10 Borrowed Funds ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 79 NOTE 11 Benefit Plans ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 80 NOTE 12 Income Taxes ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 85 NOTE 13 Lease Commitments ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 87 NOTE 14 Commitments, Contingencies and Concentrations of Credit Risk ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 87 NOTE 15 Regulatory Capital Requirements ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 87 NOTE 16 Fair Value Measurements ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 88 NOTE 17 Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 94 NOTE 18 Earnings Per Share ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 94 NOTE 19 Parent-only Financial Information ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 95 NOTE 20 Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 97 NOTE 21 Derivative and Hedging Activities ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 98 60 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data NOTE 1 Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Principles of Consolidation Securities The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Provident Financial Services, Inc. (the “Company”), The Provident Bank (the “Bank”) and their wholly owned subsidiaries. All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. Certain reclassifications have been made in the consolidated financial statements to conform with current year classifications. Business The Company, through the Bank, provides a full range of banking services to individual and business customers through branch offices in New Jersey and eastern Pennsylvania. The Bank is subject to competition from other financial institutions and to the regulations of certain federal and state agencies, and undergoes periodic examinations by those regulatory authorities. Basis of Financial Statement Presentation The consolidated financial statements of the Company have been prepared in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”). Certain reclassifications have been made in the consolidated financial statements to conform with current year classifications. In preparing the consolidated financial statements, management is required to make estimates and assumptions about future events. These estimates and the underlying assumptions affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures about contingent assets and liabilities as of the dates of the consolidated statements of financial condition, and revenues and expenses for the periods then ended. Such estimates are used in connection with the determination of the allowance for loan losses, evaluation of goodwill for impairment, evaluation of other-than-temporary impairment on securities, evaluation of the need for valuation allowances on deferred tax assets, and determination of liabilities related to retirement and other post-retirement benefits, among others. These estimates and assumptions are based on management’s best estimates and judgment. Management evaluates its estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis using historical experience and other factors, including the current economic environment, which management believes to be reasonable under the circumstances. Such estimates and assumptions are adjusted when facts and circumstances dictate. Illiquid credit markets, volatile securities markets, and declines in the housing market and the economy generally have combined to increase the uncertainty inherent in such estimates and assumptions. As future events and their effects cannot be determined with precision, actual results could differ significantly from these estimates. Changes in estimates resulting from continuing changes in the economic environment will be reflected in the financial statements in future periods. Cash and Cash Equivalents For purposes of reporting cash flows, cash and cash equivalents include cash and due from banks, Federal funds sold and commercial paper with maturity dates less than 90 days. Securities include investment securities held to maturity and securities available for sale. Securities that the Company has the positive intent and ability to hold to maturity are classified as “investment securities held to maturity” and reported at amortized cost. Securities to be held for indefinite periods of time and not intended to be held to maturity are classified as “securities available for sale” and are reported at estimated fair value, with unrealized gains and losses excluded from earnings and reported as a separate component of stockholders’ equity, net of deferred taxes. The estimated fair values of the Company’s securities are affected by changes in interest rates, credit spreads, and market illiquidity. The Company conducts a periodic review and evaluation of the securities portfolio to determine if any declines in the fair values of securities are other-than-temporary. To determine if a decline in value is other-than-temporary, the Company evaluates if it has the intent to sell these securities or if it is more likely than not that the Company would be required to sell the securities before the anticipated recovery. If such a decline were deemed other-than-temporary, the Company would measure the total credit-related component of the unrealized loss, and recognize that portion of the loss as a charge to current period earnings. The remaining portion of the unrealized loss would be recognized as an adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive income. In general, as interest rates rise, the market value of fixed-rate securities decreases and as interest rates fall, the market value of fixed-rate securities increases. The market for non-investment grade, privately issued mortgage-backed securities remains illiquid and prices have not appreciated despite favorable movements in interest rates. To determine if a decline in value is other-than-temporary, the Company evaluates if it has the intent to sell these securities or if it is more likely than not that the Company would be required to sell the securities before the anticipated recovery. Premiums and discounts on securities are amortized and accreted to income using a method that approximates the interest method over the remaining period to contractual maturity, adjusted for anticipated prepayments. Dividend and interest income are recognized when earned. Realized gains and losses are recognized when securities are sold or called based on the specific identification method. Fair Value of Financial Instruments GAAP establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value. The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (level 1 measurements) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (level 3 measurements). A financial instrument’s level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. 61 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data Federal Home Loan Bank of New York Stock Allowance for Loan Losses The Bank, as a member of the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York (“FHLBNY”), is required to hold shares of capital stock of the FHLBNY at cost based on a specified formula. The Bank carries this investment at cost, which approximates fair value. Loans Loans receivable are carried at unpaid principal balances plus unamortized premiums, purchase accounting mark-to-market adjustments, certain deferred direct loan origination costs and deferred loan origination fees and discounts, less the allowance for loan losses. The Bank defers loan origination fees and certain direct loan origination costs and accretes such amounts as an adjustment to yield over the expected lives of the related loans using the interest method. Premiums and discounts on loans purchased are amortized or accreted as an adjustment of yield over the contractual lives of the related loans, adjusted for prepayments when applicable, using methodologies which approximate the interest method. Loans are generally placed on non-accrual status when they are past due 90 days or more as to contractual obligations or when other circumstances indicate that collection is questionable. When a loan is placed on non-accrual status, any interest accrued but not received is reversed against interest income. Payments received on a non-accrual loan are either applied to the outstanding principal balance or recorded as interest income, depending on an assessment of the ability to collect the loan. A non-accrual loan is restored to accrual status when principal and interest payments become less than 90 days past due and its future collectibility is reasonably assured. An impaired loan is defined as a loan for which it is probable, based on current information, that the lender will not collect all amounts due under the contractual terms of the loan agreement. Impaired loans are individually assessed to determine that each loan’s carrying value is not in excess of the fair value of the related collateral or the present value of the expected future cash flows. Residential mortgage and consumer loans are deemed smaller balance homogeneous loans which are evaluated collectively for impairment and are therefore excluded from the population of impaired loans. Purchased Credit-Impaired (“PCI”) loans, are loans acquired at a discount primarily due to deteriorated credit quality. PCI loans are recorded at fair value at the date of acquisition, with no allowance for loan losses. The difference between the undiscounted cash flows expected at acquisition and the fair value of the PCI loans at acquisition represents the accretable yield and is recognized as interest income over the life of the loans. Contractually required payments for interest and principal that exceed the undiscounted cash flows expected at acquisition represent the non-accretable discount and are not recognized as a yield adjustment or a valuation allowance. Reclassifications of the non-accretable to accretable yield may occur subsequent to the loan acquisition dates due to an increase in expected cash flows of the loans and results in an increase in interest income on a prospective basis. Losses on loans are charged to the allowance for loan losses. Additions to this allowance are made by recoveries of loans previously charged off and by a provision charged to expense. The determination of the balance of the allowance for loan losses is based on an analysis of the loan portfolio, economic conditions, historical loan loss experience and other factors that warrant recognition in providing for an adequate allowance. While management uses available information to recognize losses on loans, future additions to the allowance for loan losses may be necessary based on changes in economic conditions in the Bank’s market area. In addition, various regulatory agencies, as an integral part of their examination process, periodically review the Bank’s allowance for loan losses. Such agencies may require the Bank to recognize additions to the allowance or additional write-downs based on their judgments about information available to them at the time of their examination. Foreclosed Assets Assets acquired through foreclosure or deed in lieu of foreclosure are carried at the lower of the outstanding loan balance at the time of foreclosure or fair value, less estimated costs to sell. Fair value is generally based on recent appraisals. When an asset is acquired, the excess of the loan balance over fair value, less estimated costs to sell, is charged to the allowance for loan losses. A reserve for foreclosed assets may be established to provide for possible write-downs and selling costs that occur subsequent to foreclosure. Foreclosed assets are carried net of the related reserve. Operating results from real estate owned, including rental income, operating expenses, and gains and losses realized from the sales of real estate owned, are recorded as incurred. Banking Premises and Equipment Land is carried at cost. Banking premises, furniture, fixtures and equipment are carried at cost, less accumulated depreciation, computed using the straight-line method based on their estimated useful lives (generally 25 to 40 years for buildings, and 3 to 5 years for furniture and equipment). Leasehold improvements, carried at cost, net of accumulated depreciation, are amortized over the terms of the leases or the estimated useful lives of the assets, whichever are shorter, using the straight-line method. Maintenance and repairs are charged to expense as incurred. Income Taxes The Company uses the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the estimated future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment 62 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report date. The determination of whether deferred tax assets will be realizable is predicated on estimates of future taxable income. Such estimates are subject to management’s judgment. A valuation reserve is established when management is unable to conclude that it is more likely than not that it will realize deferred tax assets based on the nature and timing of these items. The Company recognizes, when applicable, interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in the provision for income taxes. Trust Assets Trust assets consisting of securities and other property (other than cash on deposit held by the Bank in fiduciary or agency capacities for customers of the Bank’s wholly owned subsidiary, Beacon Trust Company) are not included in the accompanying consolidated statements of financial condition because such properties are not assets of the Bank. Intangible Assets Intangible assets of the Bank consist of goodwill, core deposit premiums, customer relationship premium and mortgage servicing rights. Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the estimated fair value of identifiable net assets acquired through purchase acquisitions. In accordance with GAAP, goodwill with an indefinite useful life is not amortized, but is evaluated for impairment on an annual basis, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate potential impairment between annual measurement dates. Goodwill is analyzed for impairment each year at September 30th. As permitted by GAAP, the Company prepares a qualitative assessment in determining whether goodwill may be impaired. The factors considered in the assessment include macroeconomic conditions, industry and market conditions and overall financial performance of the Company, among others. The Company completed its annual goodwill impairment test as of September 30, 2015. Based upon its qualitative assessment of goodwill, the Company concluded that goodwill was not impaired and no further quantitative analysis was warranted. Core deposit premiums represent the intangible value of depositor relationships assumed in purchase acquisitions and are amortized on an accelerated basis over 8.8 years. Customer relationship premiums represent the intangible value of customer relationships assumed in the purchase acquisition of Beacon and MDE, and are amortized on an accelerated basis over 12.0 years and 10.4 years, respectively. Mortgage servicing rights are recorded when purchased or when originated mortgage loans are sold, with servicing rights retained. Mortgage servicing rights are amortized on an accelerated method based upon the estimated lives of the related loans, adjusted for prepayments. Mortgage servicing rights are carried at the lower of amortized cost or fair value. Bank-owned Life Insurance Bank-owned life insurance is accounted for using the cash surrender value method and is recorded at its realizable value. Employee Benefit Plans The Bank maintains a pension plan which covers full-time employees hired prior to April 1, 2003, the date on which the pension plan PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data was frozen. The Bank’s policy is to fund at least the minimum contribution required by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974. GAAP requires an employer to: (a) recognize in its statement of financial position the over-funded or under-funded status of a defined benefit postretirement plan measured as the difference between the fair value of plan assets and the benefit obligation; (b) measure a plan’s assets and its obligations that determine its funded status at the end of the employer’s fiscal year (with limited exceptions); and (c) recognize as a component of other comprehensive income, net of tax, the actuarial gains and losses and the prior service costs and credits that arise during the period. The Bank has a 401(k) plan covering substantially all employees of the Bank. The Bank may match a percentage of the first 6% contributed by participants. The Bank’s matching contribution, if any, is determined by the Board of Directors in its sole discretion. The Bank has an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (“ESOP”). The funds borrowed by the ESOP from the Company to purchase the Company’s common stock are being repaid from the Bank’s contributions and dividends paid on unallocated ESOP shares over a period of up to 30 years. The Company’s common stock not allocated to participants is recorded as a reduction of stockholders’ equity at cost. Compensation expense for the ESOP is based on the average price of the Company’s stock during each quarter and the amount of shares allocated during the quarter. The Bank has an Equity Plan designed to provide competitive compensation for demonstrated performance and to align the interests of participants directly to increases in shareholder value. The Equity Plan provides for performance-vesting grants as well as time-vesting grants. Time-vesting stock awards, stock options and performance vesting stock awards that are based on a performance condition, such as return on average assets are valued on the closing stock price on the date of grant. Performance vesting stock awards and options that are based on a market condition, such as Total Shareholder Return, would be valued using a generally accepted statistical technique to simulate future stock prices for Provident and the components of the Peer Group which Provident would be measured against. Expense related to time vesting stock awards and stock options is based on the fair value of the common stock on the date of the grant and on the fair value of the stock options on the date of the grant, respectively, and is recognized ratably over the vesting period of the awards. Performance vesting stock awards and stock options are either dependent upon a market condition or a performance condition. A market condition performance metric is tied to a stock price, either on an absolute basis, or a relative basis against peers, while a performance-condition is based on internal operations, such as earnings per share. The expense related to a market condition performance-vesting stock award or stock option requires an initial Monte Carlo simulation to determine grant date fair value, which will be recognized as a compensation expense regardless of actual payout, assuming that the executive is still employed at the end of the requisite service period. If pre-vesting termination (forfeiture) occurs, then any expense recognized to date can be reversed. The grant date fair value is recognized ratably over the performance period. The expense related to a performance condition stock award or stock option is based on the fair value of the award on the date of grant, adjusted periodically based upon the number of awards or options expected to be earned, recognized over the performance period. 63 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data In connection with the First Sentinel acquisition in July 2004, the Company assumed the First Savings Bank Directors’ Deferred Fee Plan (the “DDFP”). The DDFP was frozen prior to the acquisition. The Company recorded a deferred compensation equity instrument and corresponding contra-equity account for the value of the shares held by the DDFP at the July 14, 2004 acquisition date. These accounts will be liquidated as shares are distributed from the DDFP in accordance with the plan document. At December 31, 2015, there were 372,817 shares held by the DDFP. The Bank maintains a non-qualified plan that provides supplemental benefits to certain executives who are prevented from receiving the full benefits contemplated by the 401(k) Plan’s and the ESOP’s benefit formulas under tax law limits for tax-qualified plans. Post-retirement Benefits Other Than Pensions The Bank provides post-retirement health care and life insurance plans to certain of its employees. The life insurance coverage is noncontributory to the participant. Participants contribute to the cost of medical coverage based on the employee’s length of service with the Bank. The costs of such benefits are accrued based on actuarial assumptions from the date of hire to the date the employee is fully eligible to receive the benefits. On December 31, 2002, the Bank eliminated postretirement healthcare benefits for employees with less than 10 years of service. GAAP requires an employer to: (a) recognize in its statement of financial position the over-funded or under-funded status of a defined benefit post-retirement plan measured as the difference between the fair value of plan assets and the benefit obligation; (b) measure a plan’s assets and its obligations that determine its funded status as of the end of the employer’s fiscal year (with limited exceptions); and (c) recognize as a component of other comprehensive income, net of tax, the actuarial gains and losses and the prior service costs and credits that arise during the period. Derivatives The Company records all derivatives on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition at fair value. The accounting for changes in the fair value of derivatives depends on the intended use of the derivative, whether the Company has elected to designate a derivative in a hedging relationship and apply hedge accounting and whether the hedging relationship has satisfied the criteria necessary to apply hedge accounting. The existing interest rate derivatives result from a service provided to certain qualifying borrowers in a loan related transaction and, therefore, are not used to manage interest rate risk in the Company’s assets or liabilities. As such, all changes in fair value of the Company’s derivatives are recognized directly in earnings. The Company also uses interest rate swaps as part of its interest rate risk management strategy. Interest rate swaps designated as cash flow hedges, and which satisfy hedge accounting requirements, involve the receipt of variable amounts from a counterparty in exchange for the Company making fixed-rate payments over the life of the agreements without the exchange of the underlying notional amount. These derivatives were used to hedge the variable cash outflows associated with Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings. The effective portion of changes in the fair value of these derivatives are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income, and are subsequently reclassified into earnings in the period that the hedged forecasted transaction affects earnings. The ineffective portion of the change in fair value of these derivatives are recognized directly in earnings. The fair value of the Company’s derivatives are determined using discounted cash flow analyses using observable market-based inputs. Comprehensive Income Comprehensive income is divided into net income and other comprehensive income. Other comprehensive income includes items previously recorded directly to equity, such as unrealized gains and losses on securities available for sale, unrealized gains and losses on derivatives and amortization related to post-retirement obligations. Comprehensive income is presented in a separate Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income. Segment Reporting The Company’s operations are solely in the financial services industry and include providing traditional banking and other financial services to its customers. The Company operates primarily in the geographical regions of northern and central New Jersey and eastern Pennsylvania. Management makes operating decisions and assesses performance based on an ongoing review of the Bank’s consolidated financial results. Therefore, the Company has a single operating segment for financial reporting purposes. Earnings Per Share Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing income available to common stockholders by the weighted average number of shares outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings per share reflects the potential dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue common stock (such as stock options) were exercised or resulted in the issuance of common stock. These potentially dilutive shares would then be included in the weighted average number of shares outstanding for the period using the treasury stock method. Shares issued and shares reacquired during the period are weighted for the portion of the period that they were outstanding. Impact of Recent Accounting Pronouncements In February 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2016-02, “Leases (Topic 842).” This ASU requires all lessees to recognize a lease liability and a right-of-use asset, measured at the present value of the future minimum lease payments, at the lease commencement date. Lessor accounting remains largely unchanged under the new guidance. The guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim reporting periods within that reporting period, with early adoption permitted. A modified retrospective approach must be applied 64 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report for leases existing at, or entered into after, the beginning of the earliest comparative period presented in the financial statements. The Company is currently assessing the impact that the guidance will have on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-01, “Financial Instruments - Overall: Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Liabilities.” This ASU addresses certain aspects of recognition, measurement, presentation, and disclosure of financial instruments. This amendment supersedes the guidance to classify equity securities with readily determinable fair values into different categories, requires equity securities to be measured at fair value with changes in the fair value recognized through net income, and simplifies the impairment assessment of equity investments without readily determinable fair values. The amendment requires public business entities that are required to disclose the fair value of financial instruments measured at amortized cost on the balance sheet to measure that fair value using the exit price notion. The amendment requires an entity to present separately in other comprehensive income the portion of the total change in the fair value of a liability resulting from a change in the instrument- specific credit risk when the entity has elected to measure the liability at fair value in accordance with the fair value option. The amendment requires separate presentation of financial assets and financial liabilities by measurement category and form of financial asset on the balance sheet or in the accompanying notes to the financial statements. The amendment reduces diversity in current practice by clarifying that an entity should evaluate the need for a valuation allowance on a deferred tax asset related to available for sale securities in combination with the entity’s other deferred tax assets. This amendment is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Entities should apply the amendment by means of a cumulative-effect adjustment as of the beginning of the fiscal year of adoption, with the exception of the amendment related to equity securities without readily determinable fair values, which should be applied prospectively to equity investments that exist as of the date of adoption. The Company intends to adopt the accounting standard during the first quarter of 2018, as required, and is currently evaluating the impact that the guidance will have on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. In September 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-16, “Business Combinations, Simplifying the Accounting for Measurement - Period Adjustments.” The amendments in this update apply to all entities that have reported provisional amounts for items in a business combination for which the accounting is incomplete by the end of the reporting period in which the combination occurs and during the measurement period have an adjustment to provisional amounts recognized. In these cases, the acquirer must record, in the same period’s financial statements, the effect on earnings of changes in depreciation, amortization, or other income effects, if any, as a result of the change to the provisional amounts, calculated as if the accounting had been completed at the acquisition date. The amendments in this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015 including interim periods within those fiscal years. The Company’s adoption of this ASU is not expected to have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements. PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data In August 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-14, “Receivables - Troubled Debt Restructurings by Creditors: Classification of Certain Government-Guaranteed Mortgage Loans upon Foreclosure.” The amendments in this update affect creditors that hold government guaranteed mortgage loans, including those guaranteed by the Federal Housing Administration and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The amendments in this update require that a mortgage loan be derecognized and that a separate other receivable be recognized upon foreclosure if the following conditions are met: (i) the loan has a government guarantee that is not separable from the loan before foreclosure; (ii) at the time of foreclosure, the creditor has the intent to convey the real estate property to the guarantor and make a claim on the guarantee, and the creditor has the ability to recover under that claim; and (iii) at the time of foreclosure, any amount of the claim that is determined on the basis of the fair value of the real estate is fixed. Upon foreclosure, the separate other receivable should be measured based on the amount of the loan balance (principal and interest) expected to be recovered from the guarantor. The amendments in this update are effective for public business entities for annual periods, and interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2014. The Company’s adoption of this ASU did not have a significant impact on its consolidated financial statements. In June 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-12, “Accounting for Share-Based Payments When the Terms of an Award Provide That a Performance Target Could Be Achieved after the Requisite Service Period,” which requires that a performance target that affects vesting and that could be achieved after the requisite service period be treated as a performance condition. This update is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2015. The amendments can be applied prospectively to all awards granted or modified after the effective date or retrospectively to all awards with performance targets that are outstanding as of the beginning of the earliest annual period presented and to all new or modified awards thereafter. Early adoption is permitted. The Company does not expect that the adoption of this guidance will have a significant impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. Also in June 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-11, “Repurchase- to-Maturity Transactions, Repurchase Financings, and Disclosures” which aligns the accounting for repurchase to maturity transactions and repurchase agreements executed as a repurchase financing with the accounting for other typical repurchase agreements. Going forward, these transactions would all be accounted for as secured borrowings. This update is effective for the first interim or annual period beginning after December 15, 2014. In addition the disclosure of certain transactions accounted for as a sale is effective for the first interim or annual period beginning on or after December 15, 2014, and the disclosure for transactions accounted for as secured borrowings is required for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2014, and interim periods beginning after March 15, 2015. Early adoption was prohibited. The Company’s adoption of this ASU did not have an impact on its consolidated financial statements. 65 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data NOTE 2 Stockholders’ Equity and Acquisitions Stockholders’ Equity On January 15, 2003, the Bank completed its plan of conversion, and the Bank became a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company. The Company sold 59.6 million shares of common stock (par value $0.01 per share) at $10.00 per share. The Company received net proceeds in the amount of $567.2 million. In connection with the Bank’s commitment to its community, the plan of conversion provided for the establishment of a charitable foundation. Provident donated $4.8 million in cash and 1.92 million of authorized but unissued shares of common stock to the foundation, which amounted to $24.0 million in aggregate. The Company recognized an expense, net of income tax benefit, equal to the cash and fair value of the stock during 2003. Conversion costs were deferred and deducted from the proceeds of the shares sold in the offering. Upon completion of the plan of conversion, a “liquidation account” was established in an amount equal to the total equity of the Bank as of the latest practicable date prior to the conversion. The liquidation account was established to provide a limited priority claim to the assets of the Bank to “eligible account holders” and “supplemental eligible account holders” as defined in the Plan, who continue to maintain deposits in the Bank after the conversion. In the unlikely event of a complete liquidation of the Bank, and only in such event, each eligible account holder and supplemental eligible account holder would receive a liquidation distribution, prior to any payment to the holder of the Bank’s common stock. This distribution would be based upon each eligible account holder’s and supplemental eligible account holder’s proportionate share of the then total remaining qualifying deposits. At December 31, 2015, the liquidation account, which is an off-balance sheet memorandum account, amounted to $13.9 million. Acquisitions On April 1, 2015, Beacon Trust Company (“Beacon”), a wholly owned subsidiary of The Provident Bank, completed its acquisition of certain assets and liabilities of The MDE Group, Inc. and the equity interests of Acertus Capital Management, LLC (together “MDE”), both Morristown, New Jersey-based registered investment advisory firms that manage assets for affluent and high net-worth clients. MDE was acquired with both cash and contingent consideration. The Company recognized goodwill of $18.3 million and a customer relationship intangible of $7.0 million related to the acquisition. The Company recognized a contingent consideration liability at its fair value of $338,000. The contingent consideration arrangement requires the Company to pay additional cash consideration to MDE’s former stakeholders four years after the closing of the acquisition if certain revenue targets are met. The fair value of the contingent consideration was estimated using a discounted cash flow model. The acquisition agreement limits the total payment to a maximum of $12.5 million, to be determined based on actual future results. On October 31, 2014, Beacon acquired the fiduciary account relationships of Suffolk County National Bank, a subsidiary of Suffolk Bancorp, in Suffolk County, New York. On May 30, 2014, the Company completed its acquisition of Team Capital Bank (“Team Capital”), which after purchase accounting adjustments added $964.0 million to total assets, $631.2 million to loans, and $769.9 million to deposits. Total consideration paid for Team Capital was $115.1 million: $31.6 million in cash and 4.9 million shares of common stock valued at $83.5 million on the acquisition date. Team Capital was merged with and into the Company’s subsidiary, The Provident Bank as of the close of business on the date of acquisition. The transaction was accounted for under the acquisition method of accounting. Under this method of accounting, the purchase price has been allocated to the respective assets acquired and liabilities assumed based upon their estimated fair values, net of tax. The excess of consideration paid over the fair value of the net assets acquired has been recorded as goodwill. The following table summarizes the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition from Team Capital, net of cash consideration paid (in thousands): Assets acquired: Cash and cash equivalents, net Securities available for sale Loans Bank-owned life insurance Banking premises and equipment Accrued interest receivable Goodwill Other intangibles assets Foreclosed assets, net Other assets Total assets acquired Liabilities assumed: Deposits Borrowed Funds Other liabilities Total liabilities assumed Net assets acquired 66 At May 30, 2014 $ $ 68,650 157,635 631,209 22,319 24,778 3,060 40,897 9,868 653 4,905 963,974 769,936 112,835 (2,314) 880,457 83,517 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report Upon the completion and filing of the Team Capital short-period tax return for the period ended May 30, 2014, a net operating loss carryback claim was filed with the Internal Revenue Service to reclaim taxes previously paid by Team Capital in the prior two years. As a result of the claim process, the Company determined that the tax receivable established by Team Capital at the May 30, 2014 acquisition date was overstated by $543,000. In May 2015, the Company decreased the tax receivable recorded at the date of acquisition by$543,000, along with a corresponding increase to goodwill. The purchase accounting for the Team Capital transaction is complete, and is reflected in both the table above and the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements. Fair Value Measurement of Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed The methods used to determine the fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the Team Capital acquisition were as follows: Securities Available for Sale The estimated fair values of the investment securities classified as available for sale were calculated utilizing Level 1 and Level 2 inputs. Management reviewed the data and assumptions used by its third party provider in pricing the securities to ensure the highest level of significant inputs is derived from observable market data. These prices were validated against other pricing sources and broker-dealer indications. Loans The acquired loan portfolio was valued based on current guidance which defines fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. Level 3 inputs were utilized to value the portfolio and included the use of present value techniques employing cash flow estimates and the incorporated assumptions that marketplace participants would use in estimating fair values. In instances where reliable market information was not available, the Company used its own assumptions in an effort to determine reasonable fair value. Specifically, Management utilized three separate fair value analyses which a market participant would employ in estimating the total fair value adjustment. The three separate fair valuation methodologies used were: 1) interest rate loan fair value analysis; 2) general credit fair value adjustment; and 3) specific credit fair value adjustment. PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data To prepare the interest rate fair value analysis, loans were grouped by characteristics such as loan type, term, collateral and rate. Market rates for similar loans were obtained from various external data sources and reviewed by Company management for reasonableness. The average of these rates was used as the fair value interest rate a market participant would utilize. A present value approach was utilized to calculate the interest rate fair value adjustment. The general credit fair value adjustment was calculated using a two part general credit fair value analysis: 1) expected lifetime losses; and 2) estimated fair value adjustment for qualitative factors. The expected lifetime losses were calculated using an average of historical losses of the Company, the acquired bank and peer banks. The adjustment related to qualitative factors was impacted by general economic conditions and the risk related to lack of familiarity with the originator’s underwriting process. To calculate the specific credit fair value adjustment, management reviewed the acquired loan portfolio for loans meeting the definition of an impaired loan with deteriorated credit quality. Loans meeting this definition were reviewed by comparing the contractual cash flows to expected collectible cash flows. The aggregate expected cash flows less the acquisition date fair value resulted in an accretable yield amount. The accretable yield amount will be recognized over the life of the loans on a level yield basis as an adjustment to yield. Deposits and Core Deposit Premium Core deposit premium represents the value assigned to demand, interest checking, money market and savings accounts acquired as part of an acquisition. The core deposit premium value represents the future economic benefit, including the present value of future tax benefits, of the potential cost savings from acquiring core deposits as part of an acquisition compared to the cost alternative funding sources and was valued utilizing Level 2 inputs. Time deposits are not considered to be core deposits as they are assumed to have a low expected average life upon acquisition. The fair value of time deposits represents the present value of the expected contractual payments discounted by market rates for similar time deposits and was valued utilizing Level 2 inputs. Borrowed Funds The fair value for borrowed funds was obtained from actual prepayment rates from the FHLB - Pittsburgh, a Level 2 input. These borrowings were redeemed after the acquisition date and the fair value adjustment was fully amortized in the quarter ended June 30, 2014. 67 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data NOTE 3 Restrictions on Cash and Due from Banks Included in cash on hand and due from banks at December 31, 2015 and 2014 was $24,288,000 and $20,502,000, respectively, representing reserves required by banking regulations. NOTE 4 Investment Securities Held to Maturity Investment securities held to maturity at December 31, 2015 and 2014 are summarized as follows (in thousands): Agency obligations Mortgage-backed securities State and municipal obligations Corporate obligations Agency obligations Mortgage-backed securities State and municipal obligations Corporate obligations Amortized cost 4,096 1,597 458,062 9,929 473,684 Amortized cost 6,813 2,816 449,410 10,489 469,528 $ $ $ $ 2015 Gross unrealized gains 9 61 15,094 11 15,175 2014 Gross unrealized gains 17 123 13,814 29 13,983 Gross unrealized losses (8) — (495) (25) (528) Gross unrealized losses (20) — (986) (32) (1,038) Fair value 4,097 1,658 472,661 9,915 488,331 Fair value 6,810 2,939 462,238 10,486 482,473 The Company generally purchases securities for long-term investment purposes, and differences between carrying and fair values may fluctuate during the investment period. Investment securities held to maturity having a carrying value of $378,538,000 and $343,127,000 at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, were pledged to secure other borrowings, securities sold under repurchase agreements and government deposits. The amortized cost and fair value of investment securities held to maturity at December 31, 2015 by contractual maturity are shown below (in thousands). Expected maturities may differ from contractual maturities due to prepayment or early call privileges of the issuer. Due in one year or less Due after one year through five years Due after five years through ten years Due after ten years 2015 Amortized cost 9,081 52,625 218,488 191,893 472,087 $ $ Fair value 9,151 53,554 227,203 196,765 486,673 Mortgage-backed securities totaling $1.6 million at amortized cost and $1.7 million at fair value are excluded from the table above as their expected lives are expected to be shorter than the contractual maturity date due to principal prepayments. During 2015, the Company recognized gains of $8,000 and no losses related to calls on certain securities in the held to maturity portfolio, with total proceeds from the calls totaling $26,973,000. There were no sales of securities from the held to maturity portfolio for the year ended December 31, 2015. In 2014, the Company recognized gains of $23,000 and no losses related to calls on certain securities in the held to maturity portfolio, with total proceeds from the calls totaling $15,156,000. In addition, for the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company recognized a gross loss of $3,000, and no gross gains, related to the sales of certain securities, with the proceeds totaling $524,000. The sales of these securities were in response to the credit deterioration of the issuers. 68 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report The following table represents the Company’s disclosure on investment securities held to maturity with temporary impairment (in thousands): PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data Agency obligations State and municipal obligations Corporate obligations Agency obligations State and municipal obligations Corporate obligations Less than 12 months December 31, 2015 Unrealized Losses 12 months or longer Total Gross unrealized losses (6) (165) (18) (189) Fair value 1,244 24,266 5,840 31,350 Gross unrealized losses (2) (330) (7) (339) Gross unrealized losses (8) (495) (25) (528) Fair value 1,522 42,012 6,584 50,118 Fair value 278 17,746 744 18,768 Less than 12 months December 31, 2014 Unrealized Losses 12 months or longer Total Gross unrealized losses (20) (217) (32) (269) Fair value 3,735 27,679 6,888 38,302 Gross unrealized losses — (769) — (769) Gross unrealized losses (20) (986) (32) (1,038) Fair value 3,735 74,758 6,888 85,381 Fair value — 47,079 — 47,079 $ $ $ $ Based on its detailed review of the securities portfolio, the Company believes that as of December 31, 2015, securities with unrealized loss positions shown above do not represent impairments that are other-than-temporary. The review of the portfolio for other-than- temporary impairment considered the percentage and length of time the fair value of an investment is below book value as well as general market conditions, changes in interest rates, credit risk, whether the Company has the intent to sell the securities and whether it is not more likely than not that the Company would be required to sell the securities before the anticipated recovery. The number of securities in an unrealized loss position as of December 31, 2015 totaled 99, compared with 163 at December 31, 2014. All temporarily impaired investment securities were investment grade at December 31, 2015. NOTE 5 Securities Available for Sale Securities available for sale at December 31, 2015 and 2014 are summarized as follows (in thousands): U.S. Treasury obligations Agency obligations Mortgage-backed securities State and municipal obligations Corporate obligations Equity securities U.S. Treasury obligations Agency obligations Mortgage-backed securities State and municipal obligations Corporate obligations Equity securities Amortized cost 8,006 82,396 857,430 4,193 5,516 397 957,938 Amortized cost 8,016 94,871 944,796 6,855 6,526 397 1,061,461 $ $ $ $ 2015 Gross unrealized gains — 82 9,828 115 6 122 10,153 2014 Gross unrealized gains 3 268 15,610 147 9 127 16,164 Gross unrealized losses (2) (148) (3,397) — (10) — (3,557) Gross unrealized losses (3) (63) (3,149) — (15) — (3,230) Fair value 8,004 82,330 863,861 4,308 5,512 519 964,534 Fair value 8,016 95,076 957,257 7,002 6,520 524 1,074,395 69 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data Securities available for sale having a carrying value of $614,824,000 and $585,928,000 at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, are pledged to secure other borrowings and securities sold under repurchase agreements. The amortized cost and fair value of securities available for sale at December 31, 2015, by contractual maturity, are shown below (in thousands). Expected maturities may differ from contractual maturities due to prepayment or early call privileges of the issuer. Due in one year or less Due after one year through five years Due after five years through ten years Due after ten years 2015 Amortized cost 27,044 67,106 3,681 2,280 100,111 $ $ Fair value 27,058 67,037 3,701 2,358 100,154 Mortgage-backed securities totaling $857.4 million at amortized cost and $863.9 million at fair value are excluded from the table above as their expected lives are expected to be shorter than the contractual maturity date due to principal prepayments. Also excluded from the table above are equity securities of $397,000 at amortized cost and $519,000 at fair value. During 2015, proceeds from the sale of securities available for sale were $14,005,000, resulting in gross gains of $643,000 and no gross losses. Also, for the year ended December 31, 2015, proceeds from calls on securities available for sale totaled $1,110,000, with gross gains of $3,000 and no gross losses recognized. For the 2014 period, proceeds from the sale of securities available for sale were $24,509,000 resulting in gross gains of $632,000 and gross losses of 404,000 losses. Also, for the year ended December 31, 2014, proceeds from calls on securities available for sale totaled $740,000, with gross gains of $2,000 and no gross losses recognized. The Company estimates the loss projections for each non-agency mortgage-backed security by stressing the individual loans collateralizing the security and applying a range of expected default rates, loss severities, and prepayment speeds in conjunction with the underlying credit enhancement for each security. Based on specific assumptions about collateral and vintage, a range of possible cash flows was identified to determine whether other-than-temporary impairment existed during the year ended December 31, 2015. The following table presents a roll-forward of the credit loss component of other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”) on debt securities for which a non-credit component of OTTI was recognized in other comprehensive income. OTTI recognized in earnings after that date for credit-impaired debt securities is presented as an addition in two components, based upon whether the current period is the first time a debt security was credit-impaired (initial credit impairment) or is not the first time a debt security was credit impaired (subsequent credit impairment). Changes in the credit loss component of credit-impaired debt securities were as follows (in thousands): Beginning credit loss amount Add: Initial OTTI credit losses Subsequent OTTI credit losses Less: Realized losses for securities sold Securities intended or required to be sold Increases in expected cash flows on debt securities Ending credit loss amount $ $ 2015 — — — — — — — December 31, 2014 1,674 — — 1,674 — — — 2013 1,240 — 434 — — — 1,674 For the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, the Company did not incur a net other-than-temporary impairment charge on securities available for sale. In 2014, the Company realized a $59,000 gain and a $365,000 loss on the sale of previously impaired non-Agency mortgage-backed securities, respectively. The Company previously incurred cumulative credit losses of $1.7 million on these securities. Prior to these charges, any impairment was considered temporary and was recorded as an unrealized loss on securities available for sale and reflected as a reduction of equity, net of tax, through accumulated other comprehensive income. 70 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report The following table represents the Company’s disclosure on securities available for sale with temporary impairment (in thousands): PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data U.S. Treasury obligations Agency obligations Mortgage-backed securities Corporate obligations U.S Treasury obligations Agency obligations Mortgage-backed securities Corporate obligations Less than 12 months December 31, 2015 Unrealized Losses 12 months or longer Total Gross unrealized losses (2) (148) (2,427) — (2,577) Fair value 8,004 59,197 327,263 500 394,964 Gross unrealized losses — — (970) (10) (980) Gross unrealized losses (2) (148) (3,397) (10) (3,557) Fair value 8,004 59,197 375,174 1,492 443,867 Fair value — — 47,911 992 48,903 Less than 12 months December 31, 2014 Unrealized Losses 12 months or longer Total Gross unrealized losses (3) (40) (221) (15) (279) Fair value 5,937 24,404 55,488 3,466 89,295 Gross unrealized losses — (23) (2,928) — (2,951) Gross unrealized losses (3) (63) (3,149) (15) (3,230) Fair value 5,937 29,414 262,157 3,466 300,974 Fair value — 5,010 206,669 — 211,679 $ $ $ $ The temporary loss position associated with debt securities is the result of changes in interest rates relative to the coupon of the individual security and changes in credit spreads. In addition, there remains a lack of liquidity in certain sectors of the mortgage-backed securities market. Increases in delinquencies and foreclosures have resulted in limited trading activity and significant price declines, regardless of favorable movements in interest rates. The Company does not have the intent to sell securities in a temporary loss position at December 31, 2015, nor is it more likely than not that the Company will be required to sell the securities before the anticipated recovery. The number of securities in an unrealized loss position as of December 31, 2015 totaled 64, compared with 43 at December 31, 2014. There were three private label mortgage-backed securities in an unrealized loss position at December 31, 2015, with an amortized cost of $773,000 and unrealized losses totaling $5,000. All three private label mortgage-backed securities were investment grade at December 31, 2015. NOTE 6 Loans Receivable and Allowance for Loan Losses Loans receivable at December 31, 2015 and 2014 are summarized as follows (in thousands): Mortgage loans: Residential Commercial Multi-family Construction Total mortgage loans Commercial loans Consumer loans Total gross loans Purchased credit-impaired (“PCI”) loans Premiums on purchased loans Unearned discounts Net deferred fees 2015 2014 $ $ 1,254,036 1,714,923 1,233,792 331,649 4,534,400 1,433,447 566,175 6,534,022 3,435 5,740 (41) (5,482) 6,537,674 1,251,445 1,694,359 1,041,582 221,102 4,208,488 1,262,422 611,467 6,082,377 4,510 5,307 (53) (6,636) 6,085,505 Premiums and discounts on purchased loans are amortized over the lives of the loans as an adjustment to yield. Required reductions due to loan prepayments are charged against interest income. For the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, $$1,100,000, $694,000 and $1,286,000, respectively, decreased interest income as a result of prepayments and normal amortization. 71 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data The following table summarizes the aging of loans receivable by portfolio segment and class of loans, excluding PCI loans (in thousands): At December 31, 2015 90 days or more past due Mortgage loans: Residential Commercial Multi-family Construction Total mortgage loans Commercial loans Consumer loans Total gross loans Mortgage loans: Residential Commercial Multi-family Construction Total mortgage loans Commercial loans Consumer loans Total gross loans $ $ $ $ 30-59 Days 60-89 Days Non-accrual and accruing Total Past Due Current 8,983 1,732 763 — 11,478 632 3,603 15,713 5,434 543 506 — 6,483 801 1,194 8,478 12,031 1,263 742 2,351 16,387 23,875 4,109 44,371 — — — — — 165 — 165 26,448 3,538 2,011 2,351 34,348 25,473 8,906 68,727 1,227,588 1,711,385 1,231,781 329,298 4,500,052 1,407,974 557,269 6,465,295 At December 31, 2014 90 days or more past due 30-59 Days 60-89 Days Non-accrual and accruing Total Past Due Current 10,121 146 — — 10,267 1,000 2,398 13,665 4,331 30 — — 4,361 371 2,509 7,241 17,222 20,026 321 — 37,569 12,342 3,944 53,855 — — — — — — — — 31,674 20,202 321 — 52,197 13,713 8,851 74,761 1,219,771 1,674,157 1,041,261 221,102 4,156,291 1,248,709 602,616 6,007,616 Total Loans Receivable 1,254,036 1,714,923 1,233,792 331,649 4,534,400 1,433,447 566,175 6,534,022 Total Loans Receivable 1,251,445 1,694,359 1,041,582 221,102 4,208,488 1,262,422 611,467 6,082,377 Included in loans receivable are loans for which the accrual of interest income has been discontinued due to deterioration in the financial condition of the borrowers. The principal amount of these nonaccrual loans was $44.4 million and $53.9 million at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. At December 31, 2015, there was one commercial loan for $165,000 which was ninety days or greater past due and still accruing interest. This loan was past maturity and well secured at December 31, 2015, which subsequent to the end of the year was refinanced by the Company. There were no loans ninety days or greater past due and still accruing interest in 2014. If the non-accrual loans had performed in accordance with their original terms, interest income would have increased by $1,200,000, $1,877,000 and $1,913,000, for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The amount of cash basis interest income that was recognized on impaired loans during the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 was not material for the periods presented. The Company defines an impaired loan as a non-homogenous loan greater than $1.0 million for which it is probable, based on current information, that the Bank will not collect all amounts due under the contractual terms of the loan agreement. Impaired loans also include all loans modified as troubled debt restructurings (“TDRs”). A loan is deemed to be a TDR when a loan modification resulting in a concession is made by the Bank in an effort to mitigate potential loss arising from a borrower’s financial difficulty. Smaller balance homogeneous loans including residential mortgages and other consumer loans are evaluated collectively for impairment and are excluded from the definition of impaired loans, unless modified as TDRs. The Company separately calculates the reserve for loan loss on impaired loans. The Company may recognize impairment of a loan based upon: (1) the present value of expected cash flows discounted at the effective interest rate; or (2) if a loan is collateral dependent, the fair value of collateral; or (3) the market price of the loan. Additionally, if impaired loans have risk characteristics in common, those loans may be aggregated and historical statistics may be used as a means of measuring those impaired loans. The Company uses third-party appraisals to determine the fair value of the underlying collateral in its analysis of collateral dependent impaired loans. A third-party appraisal is generally ordered as soon as a loan is designated as a collateral dependent impaired loan and updated annually, or more frequently if required. A specific allocation of the allowance for loan losses is established for each impaired loan with a carrying balance greater than the collateral’s fair value, less estimated costs to sell. Charge-offs are generally taken for the amount of the specific allocation when operations associated with the respective property cease and it is determined that collection of amounts due will be derived primarily from the disposition of the collateral. At each fiscal quarter end, if a loan is designated as a collateral dependent impaired loan and the third party appraisal has not yet been received, an evaluation of all available collateral is made using the best information available at the time, including rent rolls, borrower financial statements and tax returns, prior appraisals, management’s knowledge of the market and collateral, and internally prepared collateral valuations based upon market assumptions regarding vacancy and capitalization rates, each as and where applicable. Once the appraisal is received and reviewed, the specific reserves are adjusted to reflect the 72 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data appraised value. The Company believes there have been no significant time lapses as a result of this process. At December 31, 2015, there were 148 impaired loans totaling $50.9 million, of which 143 loans totaling $43.9 million were TDRs. Included in this total were 122 TDRs related to 120 borrowers totaling $26.0 million that were performing in accordance with their restructured terms and which continued to accrue interest at December 31, 2015. At December 31, 2014, there were 147 impaired loans totaling $85.4 million, of which 143 loans totaling $81.7 million were TDRs. Included in this total were 123 TDRs related to 120 borrowers totaling $54.8 million that were performing in accordance with their restructured terms and which continued to accrue interest at December 31, 2014. Loans receivable summarized by portfolio segment and impairment method, excluding PCI loans are as follows (in thousands): Individually evaluated for impairment Collectively evaluated for impairment Total gross loans Individually evaluated for impairment Collectively evaluated for impairment Total gross loans At December 31, 2015 Mortgage loans 26,743 4,507,657 4,534,400 Commercial loans 21,756 1,411,691 1,433,447 Consumer loans 2,368 563,807 566,175 At December 31, 2014 Mortgage loans 66,548 4,141,940 4,208,488 Commercial loans 16,463 1,245,959 1,262,422 Consumer loans 2,384 609,083 611,467 $ $ $ $ Total Portfolio Segments 50,867 6,483,155 6,534,022 Total Portfolio Segments 85,395 5,996,982 6,082,377 The allowance for loan losses is summarized by portfolio segment and impairment classification, excluding PCI loans as follows (in thousands): Individually evaluated for impairment Collectively evaluated for impairment Total (1) For the year ended December 31, 2015, the Company enhanced its allowance for loan losses process and allocated the previously unallocated allowance using both qualitative $ $ Segments Unallocated(1) — — — 2,271 59,153 61,424 Total 2,271 59,153 61,424 Mortgage loans 2,086 30,008 32,094 Commercial loans 91 25,738 25,829 Consumer loans 94 3,407 3,501 At December 31, 2015 Total Portfolio and quantitative factors. Individually evaluated for impairment Collectively evaluated for impairment Total Mortgage loans 4,696 27,281 31,977 $ $ Commercial loans 2,318 22,063 24,381 At December 31, 2014 Total Portfolio Segments 7,127 54,112 61,239 Consumer loans 113 4,768 4,881 Unallocated — 495 495 Total 7,127 54,607 61,734 Loan modifications to customers experiencing financial difficulties that are considered TDRs primarily involve lowering the monthly payments on such loans through either a reduction in interest rate below a market rate, an extension of the term of the loan without a corresponding adjustment to the risk premium reflected in the interest rate, or a combination of these two methods. These modifications generally do not result in the forgiveness of principal or accrued interest. In addition, the Company attempts to obtain additional collateral or guarantor support when modifying such loans. If the borrower has demonstrated performance under the previous terms and our underwriting process shows the borrower has the capacity to continue to perform under the restructured terms, the loan will continue to accrue interest. Non-accruing restructured loans may be returned to accrual status when there has been a sustained period of repayment performance (generally six consecutive months of payments) and both principal and interest are deemed collectible. 73 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data The following tables present the number of loans modified as TDRs during the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 and their balances immediately prior to the modification date and post-modification as of December 31, 2015 and 2014. ($ in thousands) Troubled Debt Restructurings Mortgage loans: Residential Construction Total mortgage loans Commercial loans Consumer loans Total restructured loans ($ in thousands) Troubled Debt Restructurings Mortgage loans: Residential Commercial Total mortgage loans Consumer loans Total restructured loans Year Ended December 31, 2015 Pre-Modification Outstanding Recorded Investment Number of Loans Post- Modification Outstanding Recorded Investment 6 $ 1 7 4 2 13 $ 2,192 2,600 4,792 6,659 123 11,574 2,179 2,351 4,530 6,822 112 11,464 Year Ended December 31, 2014 Pre-Modification Outstanding Recorded Investment Number of Loans Post- Modification Outstanding Recorded Investment 14 $ 1 15 2 17 $ 3,034 865 3,899 394 4,293 2,725 861 3,586 156 3,742 All TDRs are impaired loans, which are individually evaluated for impairment, as previously discussed. Estimated collateral values of collateral dependent impaired loans modified during the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 exceeded the carrying amounts of such loans. As a result, there were $465,000 of charge-offs recorded on collateral dependent impaired loans for the year ended December 31, 2015. There were no charge-offs recorded on collateral dependent impaired loans for the year ended December 31, 2014. The allowance for loan losses associated with the TDRs presented in the preceding tables totaled $99,000 and $419,000 at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively and were included in the allowance for loan losses for loans individually evaluated for impairment. The TDRs presented in the preceding tables had a weighted average modified interest rate of approximately 5.25% and 4.58%, compared to a yield of 5.71% and 5.69% prior to modification for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. The following table presents loans modified as TDRs within the previous 12 months from December 31, 2015 and 2014, and for which there was a payment default (90 days or more past due) during the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014: ($ in thousands) Troubled Debt Restructurings Subsequently Defaulted Mortgage loans: Construction Total mortgage loans Commercial loans Total restructured loans TDRs that subsequently default are considered collateral dependent impaired loans and are evaluated for impairment based on the estimated fair value of the underlying collateral less expected selling costs. 74 Year Ended December 31, 2015 Year Ended December 31, 2014 Number of Loans Outstanding Recorded Investment Number of Loans Outstanding Recorded Investment 1 $ 1 4 5 $ 2,351 2,351 6,822 9,173 — $ — — — $ — — — — PCI loans are loans acquired at a discount primarily due to deteriorated credit quality. As part of the Team Capital acquisition, $5.2 million of the loans purchased at May 30, 2014 were determined to be PCI loans. PCI loans are accounted for at fair value, based upon the present value of expected future cash flows, with no related allowance for loan losses. PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data The following table presents information regarding the estimates of the contractually required payments, the cash flows expected to be collected and the estimated fair value of the PCI loans acquired from Team Capital at May 30, 2014 (in thousands): Contractually required principal and interest Contractual cash flows not expected to be collected (non-accretable discount) Expected cash flows to be collected at acquisition Interest component of expected cash flows (accretable yield) Fair value of acquired loans May 30, 2014 12,505 (6,475) 6,030 (810) 5,220 $ $ PCI loans totaled $3.4 million at December 31, 2015, compared to $4.5 million at December 31, 2014 and $5.2 million at acquisition from Team Capital on May 30, 2014. The $1.1 million and $1.8 million decrease from December 31, 2014 and the May 31, 2014 acquisition date was largely due to the full repayment and greater than projected cash flows on certain PCI loans. This resulted in a $230,000 and a $348,000 increase in interest income for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, due to the acceleration of accretable and non-accretable discount on these loans. The following table summarizes the changes in the accretable yield for PCI loans for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands): Beginning balance Acquisition Accretion Reclassification from non-accretable difference Ending balance Year Ended December 31, $ $ 2015 695 $ — (810) 791 676 $ 2014 — 810 (592) 477 695 The activity in the allowance for loan losses for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 is as follows (in thousands): Balance at beginning of period Provision charged to operations Recoveries of loans previously charged off Loans charged off Balance at end of period Years Ended December 31, 2015 61,734 4,350 4,168 (8,828) 61,424 $ $ 2014 64,664 4,650 3,292 (10,872) 61,734 2013 70,348 5,500 3,222 (14,406) 64,664 The activity in the allowance for loan losses by portfolio segment for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 are as follows (in thousands): Balance at beginning of period Provision charged to operations Recoveries of loans previously charged off Loans charged off Balance at end of period Balance at beginning of period Provision charged to operations Recoveries of loans previously charged off Loans charged off Balance at end of period For the Year Ended December 31, 2015 Mortgage loans Commercial loans Consumer loans Total Portfolio Segments Unallocated $ 31,977 2,357 247 (2,487) $ 32,094 24,381 1,898 2,413 (2,863) 25,829 4,881 590 1,508 (3,478) 3,501 61,239 4,845 4,168 (8,828) 61,424 495 (495) — — — For the Year ended December 31, 2014 Mortgage loans 34,144 1,455 286 (3,908) 31,977 $ $ Commercial loans 24,107 2,947 1,776 (4,449) 24,381 Consumer loans 4,929 1,237 1,230 (2,515) 4,881 Total Portfolio Segments Unallocated 1,484 (989) — — 495 63,180 5,639 3,292 (10,872) 61,239 Total 61,734 4,350 4,168 (8,828) 61,424 Total 64,664 4,650 3,292 (10,872) 61,734 75 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II ITEM 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data Impaired loans receivable by class, excluding PCI loans are summarized as follows (in thousands): At December 31, 2015 At December 31, 2014 Unpaid Principal Balance Recorded Investment Related Allowance Average Recorded Investment Interest Income Recognized Unpaid Principal Balance Recorded Investment Related Allowance Average Recorded Investment Interest Income Recognized $ 12,144 8,799 Loans with no related allowance Mortgage loans: Residential Commercial Multi-family Construction Total Commercial loans Consumer loans — — 2,358 14,502 23,754 1,560 Total loans $ 39,816 Loans with an allow- ance recorded Mortgage loans: Residential Commercial Multi-family Construction Total Commercial loans Consumer loans Total loans Total Mortgage loans: Residential Commercial Multi-family Construction Total Commercial loans Consumer loans $ 14,997 1,240 — — 16,237 612 1,297 $ 18,146 $ 27,141 1,240 — 2,358 30,739 24,366 2,857 Total loans $ 57,962 — — 2,351 11,150 21,144 1,082 33,376 14,353 1,240 — — 15,593 612 1,286 17,491 23,152 1,240 — 2,351 26,743 21,756 2,368 50,867 — — — — — — — — 1,901 185 — — 2,086 91 94 2,271 1,901 185 — — 2,086 91 94 2,271 9,079 451 $ 14,942 — — 1,170 10,249 21,875 1,121 33,245 14,500 1,361 — — 15,861 807 1,312 17,980 23,579 1,361 — 1,170 26,110 22,682 2,433 51,225 — — 16 467 747 48 4,971 — — 19,913 2,718 1,250 1,262 $ 23,881 505 $ 63 — — 568 52 67 15,523 37,555 — — 53,078 15,990 1,565 687 $ 70,633 956 $ 63 — 16 1,035 799 115 30,465 42,526 — — 72,991 18,708 2,815 1,949 $ 94,514 10,629 4,708 — — 15,337 2,179 830 18,346 14,906 36,306 — — 51,212 14,283 1,554 67,049 25,535 41,014 — — 66,549 16,462 2,384 85,395 — — — — — — — — 2,367 2,329 — — 4,696 2,318 113 7,127 2,367 2,329 — — 4,696 2,318 113 7,127 11,138 4,713 — — 15,851 1,823 870 18,544 15,106 36,674 — — 51,780 15,967 1,578 69,325 26,244 41,387 — — 67,631 17,790 2,448 87,869 357 — — — 357 4 28 389 555 914 — — 1,469 390 80 1,939 912 914 — — 1,826 394 108 2,328 At December 31, 2015, impaired loans consisted of 148 residential, commercial and commercial mortgage loans totaling $50,867,000, of which 26 loans totaling $24,894,000 were included in nonaccrual loans. At December 31, 2014, impaired loans consisted of 147 residential, commercial and commercial mortgage loans totaling $85,395,000, of which 24 loans totaling $30,619,000 were included in nonaccrual loans. Specific allocations of the allowance for loan losses attributable to impaired loans totaled $2,271,000 and $7,127,000 at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. At December 31, 2015 and 2014, impaired loans for which there was no related allowance for loan losses totaled $33,376,000 and $18,346,000, respectively. The average balances of impaired loans during the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 were $51,225,000 and $87,869,000, respectively. In the normal course of conducting its business, the Bank extends credit to meet the financing needs of its customers through commitments. Commitments and contingent liabilities, such as commitments to extend credit (including loan commitments of $866,403,000 and $908,581,000, at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, and undisbursed home equity and personal credit lines of $287,942,000 and $300,029,000, at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively) exist, which are not reflected in the accompanying consolidated financial statements. These instruments involve elements of credit and interest rate risk in excess of the amount recognized in the consolidated financial statements. The Bank uses the same credit policies and collateral requirements in making commitments and conditional obligations as it does for on- balance sheet loans. Commitments generally have fixed expiration dates or other termination clauses and may require payment of a fee. Since the commitments may expire without being drawn upon, the total commitment amounts do not necessarily represent future cash requirements. The Bank evaluates each customer’s creditworthiness on a case- by-case basis. The amount of collateral obtained, if deemed necessary by the Bank upon extension of credit, is based on management’s credit evaluation of the borrower. The Bank grants residential real estate loans on single- and multi-family dwellings to borrowers primarily in New Jersey. Its borrowers’ abilities to repay their obligations are dependent upon various factors, including the borrowers’ income and net worth, cash flows generated by the underlying collateral, value of the underlying collateral, and priority of the Bank’s lien on the property. Such factors are dependent upon various economic conditions and individual circumstances beyond the Bank’s control; 76 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data the Bank is therefore subject to risk of loss. The Bank believes that its lending policies and procedures adequately minimize the potential exposure to such risks and that adequate provisions for loan losses are provided for all known and inherent risks. Collateral and/or guarantees are required for virtually all loans. The Company utilizes an internal nine-point risk rating system to summarize its loan portfolio into categories with similar risk characteristics. Loans deemed to be “acceptable quality” are rated 1 through 4, with a rating of 1 established for loans with minimal risk. Loans that are deemed to be of “questionable quality” are rated 5 (watch) or 6 (special mention). Loans with adverse classifications (substandard, doubtful or loss) are rated 7, 8 or 9, respectively. Commercial mortgage, commercial, multi-family and construction loans are rated individually, and each lending officer is responsible for risk rating loans in his or her portfolio. These risk ratings are then reviewed by the department manager and/or the Chief Lending Officer and by the Credit Administration Department. The risk ratings are also confirmed through periodic loan review examinations, which are currently performed by an independent third party. Reports by the independent third party are presented directly to the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors. Loans receivable by credit quality risk rating indicator, excluding PCI loans are as follows (in thousands): At December 31, 2015 Residential 5,434 $ 12,031 — — Special mention Substandard Doubtful Loss Total classified and 17,465 criticized Acceptable/watch 1,236,571 Total outstanding loans $1,254,036 Commercial mortgages 29,363 19,451 — — Multi- family Construction 1,080 — 2,351 1,248 — — — — Total mortgages 35,877 35,081 — — Commercial loans 76,464 38,654 8 — Consumer loans Total loans 113,535 1,194 77,789 4,054 8 — — — 48,814 1,666,109 1,714,923 2,328 1,231,464 1,233,792 2,351 329,298 331,649 70,958 4,463,442 4,534,400 115,126 1,318,321 1,433,447 5,248 560,927 566,175 191,332 6,342,690 6,534,022 At December 31, 2014 Residential 4,331 $ 17,222 — — Special mention Substandard Doubtful Loss Total classified and 21,553 criticized Acceptable/watch 1,229,892 Total outstanding loans $1,251,445 Commercial mortgages 18,414 53,454 1,063 — Multi- family Construction — 2,600 — — 851 322 — — Total mortgages 23,596 73,598 1,063 — Commercial loans 45,599 32,828 29 — Consumer loans Total loans 71,704 2,509 110,364 3,938 1,092 — — — 72,931 1,621,428 1,694,359 1,173 1,040,409 1,041,582 2,600 218,502 221,102 98,257 4,110,231 4,208,488 78,456 1,183,966 1,262,422 6,447 605,020 611,467 183,160 5,899,217 6,082,377 NOTE 7 Banking Premises and Equipment A summary of banking premises and equipment at December 31, 2015 and 2014 is as follows (in thousands): Land Banking premises Furniture, fixtures and equipment Leasehold improvements Construction in progress Less accumulated depreciation and amortization 2015 17,594 81,095 43,039 36,753 1,786 180,267 91,280 88,987 $ $ 2014 15,767 80,526 42,836 33,819 4,053 177,001 84,011 92,990 Depreciation expense for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 amounted to $9,648,000, $8,264,000 and $7,152,000, respectively. 77 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data NOTE 8 Intangible Assets Intangible assets at December 31, 2015 and 2014 are summarized as follows (in thousands): Goodwill Core deposit premiums Customer relationship and other intangibles Mortgage servicing rights 2015 411,624 5,846 7,866 941 426,277 $ $ 2014 392,757 7,603 2,987 1,075 404,422 Amortization expense of intangible assets for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 is as follows (in thousands): Core deposit premiums Customer relationship and other intangibles Mortgage servicing rights $ $ 2015 1,757 2,136 173 4,066 2014 1,472 1,106 179 2,757 2013 965 335 324 1,624 Scheduled amortization of core deposit and customer relationship intangibles for each of the next five years is as follows (in thousands): Year ended December 31, 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 NOTE 9 Deposits Deposits at December 31, 2015 and 2014 are summarized as follows (in thousands): Savings deposits Money market accounts NOW accounts Non-interest bearing deposits Certificates of deposit 2015 985,478 1,468,352 1,540,894 1,189,542 739,721 5,923,987 $ $ Weighted average interest rate 0.10% $ 0.28 0.29 — 0.71 $ 2014 995,347 1,496,466 1,425,424 1,049,597 825,689 5,792,523 Scheduled maturities of certificates of deposit accounts at December 31, 2015 and 2014 are as follows (in thousands): Within one year One to three years Three to five years Five years and thereafter 2015 499,221 132,507 106,943 1,050 739,721 $ $ $ Scheduled Amortization 3,209 2,550 2,004 1,709 1,415 Weighted average interest rate 0.10% 0.27 0.27 — 0.89 2014 568,462 152,317 100,080 4,830 825,689 Interest expense on deposits for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 is summarized as follows (in thousands): Savings deposits NOW and money market accounts Certificates of deposits 78 Years ended December 31, 2015 1,039 8,046 5,436 14,521 $ $ 2014 938 7,733 6,661 15,332 2013 960 7,456 9,615 18,031 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data NOTE 10 Borrowed Funds Borrowed funds at December 31, 2015 and 2014 are summarized as follows (in thousands): Securities sold under repurchase agreements FHLB line of credit FHLB advances 2015 261,350 96,000 1,350,282 1,707,632 $ $ 2014 246,571 73,000 1,190,280 1,509,851 FHLB advances are at fixed rates and mature between January 2016 and April 2022. These advances are secured by loans receivable and investment securities under a blanket collateral agreement. Scheduled maturities of FHLB advances at December 31, 2015 are as follows (in thousands): Due in one year or less Due after one year through two years Due after two years through three years Due after three years through four years Due after four years through five years Thereafter 2015 250,166 277,318 290,010 314,334 188,454 30,000 1,350,282 $ $ Scheduled maturities of securities sold under repurchase agreements at December 31, 2015 are as follows (in thousands): Due in one year or less Due after one year through two years Due after two years through three years Due after three years through four years Due after four years through five years Thereafter 2015 181,350 25,000 20,000 35,000 — — 261,350 $ $ The following tables set forth certain information as to Borrowed Funds for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands): 2015: Securities sold under repurchase agreements FHLB line of credit FHLB advances 2014: Securities sold under repurchase agreements FHLB line of credit FHLB advances Maximum balance 346,361 160,000 1,363,122 255,633 180,000 1,190,280 $ $ Average balance 273,934 80,847 1,249,193 245,260 104,121 989,245 Weighted average interest rate 1.49% 0.40 1.84 1.72% 0.37 2.08 Securities sold under repurchase agreements include wholesale borrowing arrangements, as well as arrangements with deposit customers of the Bank to sweep funds into short-term borrowings. The Bank uses securities available for sale to pledge as collateral for the repurchase agreements. 79 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data NOTE 11 Benefit Plans Pension and Post-retirement Benefits The Bank has a noncontributory defined benefit pension plan covering its full-time employees who had attained age 21 with at least one year of service as of April 1, 2003. The pension plan was frozen on April 1, 2003. All participants in the pension plan are 100% vested. The pension plan’s assets are invested in investment funds and group annuity contracts currently managed by the Principal Financial Group and Allmerica Financial. Based on the measurement date of December 31, 2015, no contributions will be made to the pension plan in 2016. In an effort to lower and reduce the volatility of its future pension costs, the Company offered a lump sum pension distribution option to its terminated vested employees in the quarter ended June 30, 2014. For the year ended December 31, 2014, the Plan paid $4.3 million to those employees that elected to receive lump sum pension distributions and the Company realized an associated charge of $1.3 million. This charge was a pro rata share of the unrecognized losses recorded in other comprehensive income. In addition to pension benefits, certain healthcare and life insurance benefits are currently made available to certain of the Bank’s retired employees. The costs of such benefits are accrued based on actuarial assumptions from the date of hire to the date the employee is fully eligible to receive the benefits. Effective January 1, 2003, eligibility for retiree health care benefits was frozen as to new entrants and benefits were eliminated for employees with less than ten years of service as of December 31, 2002. Effective January 1, 2007, eligibility for retiree life insurance benefits was frozen to new entrants and retiree life insurance benefits were eliminated for employees with less than ten years of service as of December 31, 2006. The following table sets forth information regarding the pension plan and post-retirement healthcare and life insurance plans (in thousands): Change in benefit obligation: Benefit obligation at beginning of year Service cost Interest cost Actuarial loss (gain) Benefits paid Change in actuarial assumptions Benefit obligation at end of year Change in plan assets: Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year Actual return on plan assets Employer contributions Benefits paid Fair value of plan assets at end of year Funded status at end of year Pension Post-retirement 2015 2014 2013 2015 2014 2013 $ $ $ $ $ 28,921 — 1,137 78 (1,179) (683) 28,274 42,744 (117) — (1,179) 41,448 13,174 28,605 — 1,271 51 (5,326) 4,320 28,921 45,202 2,868 — (5,326) 42,744 13,823 32,189 — 1,273 114 (969) (4,002) 28,605 40,072 6,099 — (969) 45,202 16,597 28,333 168 1,122 122 (644) (3,407) 25,694 — — 644 (644) — (25,694) 22,086 169 1,087 51 (670) 5,610 28,333 — — 670 (670) — (28,333) 25,116 240 981 (210) (624) (3,417) 22,086 — — 624 (624) — (22,086) For the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, the Company, in the measurement of its pension plan and post-retirement obligations updated its mortality assumptions to the RP 2014 mortality table with the fully generational projection scale MP 2015 and MP 2014 issued by The Society of Actuaries («SOA») in October 2015 and 2014, respectively. For the year ended December 31, 2014, the introduction of the updated mortality data resulted in an actuarial loss of $1.5 million and $3.0 million for the pension and post-retirement plans, respectively, and was reflected in other comprehensive income. The prepaid pension benefits of $13.2 million and the unfunded post-retirement healthcare and life insurance benefits of $25.7 million at December 31, 2015 are included in other assets and other liabilities, respectively, in the consolidated statement of financial condition. The components of accumulated other comprehensive loss (gain) related to the pension plan and other post-retirement benefits, on a pre-tax basis, at December 31, 2015 and 2014 are summarized in the following table (in thousands): Unrecognized prior service cost Unrecognized net actuarial loss (gain) Total accumulated other comprehensive loss (gain) Pension Post-retirement 2015 — 12,155 12,155 $ $ 2014 — 10,887 10,887 2015 — (1,498) (1,498) 2014 (1) 1,788 1,787 80 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data Net periodic benefit cost (increase) for the years ending December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, included the following components (in thousands): Service cost Interest cost Return on plan assets Amortization of: Net gain (loss) Lump sum pension distribution Unrecognized prior service cost Net periodic benefit (increase) cost Pension Post-retirement 2015 — 1,137 (2,530) 774 — — (619) $ $ 2014 — 1,271 (3,463) 441 1,336 — (415) 2013 — 1,273 (3,167) 1,352 — — (542) 2015 168 1,122 — 1 — (1) 1,290 2014 169 1,087 — (204) — (4) 1,048 2013 240 981 — 15 — (4) 1,232 The weighted average actuarial assumptions used in the plan determinations at December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 were as follows: Discount rate Rate of compensation increase Expected return on plan assets Medical and life insurance benefits cost rate of increase 2015 4.50% — 6.00 — Pension 2014 4.00% — 8.00 — 2013 5.00% — 8.00 — Post-retirement 2015 4.50% — — 6.00 2014 4.00% — — 6.00 2013 5.00% — — 6.00 The Company provides its actuary with certain rate assumptions used in measuring the benefit obligation. The most significant of these is the discount rate used to calculate the period-end present value of the benefit obligations, and the expense to be included in the following year’s financial statements. A lower discount rate will result in a higher benefit obligation and expense, while a higher discount rate will result in a lower benefit obligation and expense. The discount rate assumption was determined based on a cash flow-yield curve model specific to the Company’s pension and post-retirement plans. The Company compares this rate to certain market indices, such as long-term treasury bonds, or the Citigroup pension liability indices, for reasonableness. A discount rate of 4.50% was selected for the December 31, 2015 measurement date. Assumed health care cost trend rates have a significant effect on the amounts reported for health care plans. A 1% change in the assumed health care cost trend rate would have had the following effects on post-retirement benefits at December 31, 2015 (in thousands): Effect on total service cost and interest cost Effect on post-retirement benefits obligation 1% increase 270 4,460 $ $ 1% decrease (210) (3,560) Estimated future benefit payments, which reflect expected future service, as appropriate for the next five years, are as follows (in thousands): 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 $ Pension Post-retirement 810,000 843,000 883,000 924,000 949,000 1,090,000 $ 1,137,000 1,164,000 1,189,000 1,247,000 The weighted-average asset allocation of pension plan assets at December 31, 2015 and 2014 were as follows: Asset Category Domestic equities Foreign equities Fixed income Real estate Cash Total 2015 36% 11% 51% 2% 0% 100% 2014 41% 12% 45% 2% 0% 100% The Company’s expected return on pension plan assets assumption is based on historical investment return experience and evaluation of input from the Investment Consultant and the Company’s Benefits Committee which manages the pension plan’s assets. The expected return on pension plan assets is also impacted by the target allocation of assets, which is based on the Company’s goal of earning the highest rate of return while maintaining risk at acceptable levels. 81 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data Management strives to have pension plan assets sufficiently diversified so that adverse or unexpected results from one security class will not have a significant detrimental impact on the entire portfolio. The target allocation of assets and acceptable ranges around the targets are as follows: Asset Category Domestic equities Foreign equities Fixed income Real estate Cash Total Target Allowable Range 44% 14% 40% 2% 0% 100% 35-55% 5-25% 30-50% 0-10% 0-35% The following tables present the assets that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis by level within the U.S. GAAP fair value hierarchy as reported on the statements of net assets available for Plan benefits at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Financial assets and liabilities are classified in their entirety based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. (in thousands) Group annuity contracts Mutual funds: Fixed income International equity Large U.S. equity Small/Mid U.S. equity Total mutual funds Pooled separate accounts: Fixed income Large U.S. equity Small/Mid U.S. equity Total pooled separate accounts Total investments (in thousands) Group annuity contracts Mutual funds: Fixed income International equity Large U.S. equity Small/Mid U.S. equity Total mutual funds Pooled separate accounts: Fixed income Large U.S. equity Small/Mid U.S. equity Total pooled separate accounts Total investments $ $ $ $ Fair value measurements at December 31, 2015 Total 134 (Level 2) 134 (Level 1) — 12,378 4,455 1,224 791 18,848 8,653 10,962 2,851 22,466 41,448 12,378 4,455 1,224 791 18,848 — — — — 18,848 — — — — — 8,653 10,962 2,851 22,466 22,600 Fair value measurements at December 31, 2014 Total 152 (Level 1) — (Level 2) 152 — 5,370 1,689 1,309 8,368 19,789 11,857 2,578 34,224 42,744 — 5,370 1,689 1,309 8,368 — — — — 8,368 — — — — — 19,789 11,857 2,578 34,224 34,376 (Level 3) — — — — — — — — — — — (Level 3) — — — — — — — — — — — The Company anticipates that the long-term asset allocation on average will approximate the targeted allocation. Actual asset allocations are the result of investment decisions by a third-party investment manager. 401(k) Plan The Bank has a 401(k) plan covering substantially all employees of the Bank. For 2015, 2014 and 2013, the Bank matched 25% of the first 6% contributed by the participants. The contribution percentage is determined by the Board of Directors in its sole discretion. The Bank’s aggregate contributions to the 401(k) Plan for 2015, 2014 and 2013 were $770,000, $674,000 and $587,000, respectively. 82 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan The Bank maintains a non-qualified supplemental retirement plan for certain senior officers of the Bank. This plan was frozen as of April 1, 2003. The Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan, which is unfunded, provides benefits in excess of the benefits permitted to be paid by the pension plan under provisions of the tax law. Amounts expensed under this supplemental retirement plan amounted to $93,000, $102,000 and $162,000 for the years 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. At December 31, 2015, and 2014, $2,110,000 and $2,166,000, respectively, were recorded in other liabilities on the consolidated statements of condition for this supplemental retirement plan. A decrease of $82,000, a decrease of $198,000, and an increase of $56,000, net of tax, were recorded in other comprehensive income for 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively, in connection with this supplemental retirement plan. Retirement Plan for the Board of Directors of The Provident Bank The Bank maintains a Retirement Plan for the Board of Directors of the Bank, a non-qualified plan that provides cash payments for up to 10 years to eligible retired board members based on age and length of service requirements. The maximum payment under this plan to a board member, who terminates service on or after the age of 72 with at least ten years of service on the board, is forty quarterly payments of $1,250. The Bank may suspend payments under this plan if it does not meet Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance minimum capital requirements. The Bank may terminate this plan at any time although such termination may not reduce or eliminate any benefit previously accrued to a board member without his or her consent. The plan was amended in December 2005 to terminate benefits under this plan for any directors who had less than ten years of service on the board of directors of the Bank as of December 31, 2006. The plan further provides that, in the event of a change in control (as defined in the plan), the undistributed balance of a director’s accrued benefit will be distributed to him or her within 60 days of the change in control. The Bank paid $15,000 to former board members under this plan for each of the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013. At December 31, 2015 and 2014, $158,000 and $169,000, respectively, were recorded in other liabilities on the consolidated statements of financial condition for this retirement plan. An increase of $1,800, a decrease of $7,400, and an increase of $6,000, net of tax, were recorded in other comprehensive income for 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively, in connection with this plan. Employee Stock Ownership Plan The ESOP is a tax-qualified plan designed to invest primarily in the Company’s common stock that provides employees with the opportunity to receive a funded retirement benefit from the Bank, based primarily on the value of the Company’s common stock. The ESOP purchased 4,769,464 shares of the Company’s common stock at an average price of $17.09 per share with the proceeds of a loan from the Company to the ESOP. The outstanding loan principal at December 31, 2015, was $49.9 million. Shares of the Company’s common stock pledged as collateral for the loan are released from the pledge for allocation to participants as loan payments are made. PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data For the ESOP years ending December 31, 2015 and 2014, 209,631 shares and 201,512 shares were released, respectively. Unallocated ESOP shares held in suspense totaled 2,442,414 at December 31, 2015, and had a fair value of $49.2 million. ESOP compensation expense for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 was $2,997,000, $2,654,000 and $2,559,000, respectively. Non-Qualified Supplemental Defined Contribution Plan (“the Supplemental Employee Stock Ownership Plan”) Effective January 1, 2004, the Bank established a deferred compensation plan for executive management and key employees of the Bank, known as The Provident Bank Non-Qualified Supplemental Employee Stock Ownership Plan (the “Supplemental ESOP”). The Supplemental ESOP was amended and restated as the Non- Qualified Supplemental Defined Contribution Plan (the “Supplemental DC Plan”), effective January 1, 2010. The Supplemental DC Plan is a non-qualified plan that provides additional benefits to certain executives whose benefits under the 401(k) Plan and ESOP are limited by tax law limitations applicable to tax-qualified plans. The Supplemental DC Plan requires a contribution by the Bank for each participant who also participates in the 401(k) Plan and ESOP equal to the amount that would have been contributed under the terms of the of the 401(k) Plan and ESOP but for the tax law limitations, less the amount actually contributed under the 401(k) Plan and ESOP. The Supplemental DC Plan provides for a phantom stock allocation for qualified contributions that may not be accrued in the qualified ESOP and for matching contributions that may not be accrued in the qualified 401(k) Plan due to tax law limitations. Under the Supplemental 401(k) provision, the estimated expense for the year ending December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 was $11,500, $10,500 and $7,000, respectively, and included the matching contributions plus interest credited at an annual rate equal to the ten-year bond-equivalent yield on U.S. Treasury securities. Under the Supplemental ESOP provision, the estimated expense for the year ending December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 was $54,000, $48,000 and $45,000, respectively. The phantom equity is treated as equity awards (expensed at the time of allocation) and not liability awards which would require periodic adjustment to market, as participants do not have an option to take their distribution in cash. The Amended and Restated Long-Term Incentive Plan Upon stockholders’ approval of the Amended and Restated Long- Term Incentive Plan on April 4, 2014, shares available for stock awards and stock options under the 2008 Long-Term Equity Incentive Plan were reserved for issuance under the new Amended and Restated Long-Term Incentive Plan. No additional grants of stock awards and stock options will be made under the 2008 Long-Term Equity Incentive Plan. The new plan authorized the issuance of up to 3,686,510 shares of Company common stock with no more than 2,100,000 shares permitted to be issued as stock awards. Shares previously awarded under the 2008 plans that are subsequently forfeited or expire may also be issued under the new plan. 83 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data Stock Awards As a general rule, restricted stock grants are held in escrow for the benefit of the award recipient until vested. Awards outstanding generally vest in three or five annual installments, commencing one year from the date of the award. Additionally, certain awards are two and three-year performance vesting awards, which may or may not vest depending upon the attainment of certain corporate financial targets. Expense attributable to stock awards amounted to $4,625,000, $6,359,000 and $4,869,000 for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. A summary status of the granted but unvested stock awards as of December 31, and changes during the year, is presented below: Outstanding at beginning of year Granted Forfeited Vested Outstanding at the end of year Restricted Stock Awards 2015 846,462 339,936 (240,191) (354,461) 591,746 2014 782,213 426,726 (126,743) (235,734) 846,462 2013 846,883 386,669 (68,954) (382,385) 782,213 As of December 31, 2015, unrecognized compensation cost relating to unvested restricted stock totaled $1.8 million. This amount will be recognized over a remaining weighted average period of 2.1 years. Stock Options Each stock option granted entitles the holder to purchase one share of the Company’s common stock at an exercise price not less than the fair value of a share of the Company’s common stock at the date of grant. Options generally vest over a five- year period from the date of grant and expire no later than 10 years following the grant date. Additionally, certain options are three-year performance vesting options, which may or may not vest depending upon the attainment of certain corporate financial targets. A summary of the status of the granted but unexercised stock options as of December 31, and changes during the year is presented below: Outstanding at beginning of year Granted Exercised Forfeited Expired Outstanding at the end of year 2015 Number of stock options 1,284,321 $ 65,972 (201,320) (62,287) (2,000) 1,084,686 $ Weighted average exercise price 15.32 16.38 15.72 14.93 17.94 15.32 2014 Number of stock options 1,233,742 $ 171,935 (9,678) (4,178) (107,500) 1,284,321 $ Weighted average exercise price 15.24 16.44 12.11 14.50 16.54 15.32 2013 Number of stock options 4,152,016 $ 85,250 (28,464) (53,444) (2,921,616) 1,233,742 $ Weighted average exercise price 17.50 15.23 12.41 10.34 18.57 15.24 The total fair value of options vesting during 2015, 2014 and 2013 was $274,000, $438,000 and $696,000, respectively. Compensation expense of approximately $130,000, $96,000 and $21,000 is projected for 2016, 2017 and 2018, respectively, on stock options outstanding at December 31, 2015. The following table summarizes information about stock options outstanding at December 31, 2015: Range of exercise prices $10.27-15.23 $16.38-18.87 Options Outstanding Number of options outstanding 506,478 578,208 Average remaining contractual life 4.2 years $ 3.9 years $ Weighted average exercise price 12.49 17.63 Options Exercisable Number of options exercisable 465,478 $ 355,134 $ Weighted average exercise price 12.27 18.05 The stock options outstanding and stock options exercisable at December 31, 2015 have an aggregate intrinsic value of $5,720,000 and $4,703,000, respectively. Compensation expense related to the Company’s stock option plan totaled $272,000, $298,000 and $297,000 for 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The expense related to stock options is based on the fair value of the options at the date of the grant and is recognized ratably over the vesting period of the options. The estimated fair values were determined on the dates of grant using the Black-Scholes Option pricing model. The fair value of the Company’ stock option awards are expensed on a straight- line basis over the vesting period of the stock option. The risk-free 84 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data rate is based on the implied yield on a U.S. Treasury bond with a term approximating the expected term of the option. The expected volatility computation is based on historical volatility over a period approximating the expected term of the option. The dividend yield is based on the annual dividend payment per share, divided by the grant date stock price. The expected option term is a function of the option life and the vesting period. The fair value of the option grants was estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions: Expected dividend yield Expected volatility Risk-free interest rate Expected option life For the year ended December 31, 2015 3.49% 21.29% 1.58% 2014 3.66% 20.04% 0.96% 2013 3.41% 33.38% 0.88% 8 years 6.5 years 8 years The weighted average fair value of options granted during 2015, 2014 and 2013 was $2.52, $1.64 and $3.49 per option, respectively. NOTE 12 Income Taxes The current and deferred amounts of income tax expense (benefit) for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 are as follows (in thousands): Current: Federal State Total current Deferred: Federal State Total deferred Years ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 $ $ 33,778 2,337 36,115 (525) 851 326 36,441 27,577 542 28,119 1,678 1,988 3,666 31,785 27,667 2,168 29,835 4,210 1,321 5,531 35,366 The Company recorded, in accumulated other comprehensive income, deferred tax (benefit) expense of ($2,545,000), $7,075,000 and ($13,824,000) during 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively, to reflect the tax effect of the unrealized gain on securities available for sale. The Company recorded, in accumulated other comprehensive income, a deferred tax expense (benefit) of $866,000, ($3,800,000) and $4,968,000 in 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively, related to the amortization of post-retirement benefit obligations. A reconciliation between the amount of reported total income tax expense and the amount computed by multiplying the applicable statutory income tax rate is as follows (in thousands): Tax expense at statutory rate of 35% Increase (decrease) in taxes resulting from: State tax, net of federal income tax benefit Tax-exempt interest income Bank-owned life insurance Non-qualified stock option expiration Other, net Years ended December 31, 2015 42,057 2,072 (5,520) (1,871) — (297) 36,441 $ $ 2014 36,896 1,621 (4,916) (1,972) — 156 31,785 2013 37,065 2,268 (4,084) (2,309) 2,746 (320) 35,366 85 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data The net deferred tax asset is included in other assets in the consolidated statements of financial condition. The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to significant portions of the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities at December 31, 2015 and 2014 are as follows (in thousands): 2015 2014 Deferred tax assets: Allowance for loan losses Post-retirement benefit Deferred compensation Intangibles Purchase accounting adjustments Depreciation SERP ESOP Stock-based compensation Non-accrual interest State NOL Federal NOL Pension liability adjustments Other Total gross deferred tax assets Valuation Reserve Deferred tax liabilities: Pension expense Deferred loan costs Investment securities, principally due to accretion of discounts Originated mortgage servicing rights Unrealized gain on securities Total gross deferred tax liabilities Net deferred tax asset The 2014 deferred tax expense does not equal the change in net deferred tax assets as a result of deferred taxes recorded in connection with the Team Capital acquisition in the amount of $486,000. Retained earnings at December 31, 2015 includes approximately $51,800,000 for which no provision for income tax has been made. This amount represents an allocation of income to bad debt deductions for tax purposes only. Events that would result in taxation of these reserves include the failure to qualify as a bank for tax purposes, distributions in complete or partial liquidation, stock redemptions and excess distributions to stockholders. At December 31, 2015, the Company had an unrecognized tax liability of $20,802,880 with respect to this reserve. At December 31, 2014, the Company had a valuation allowance of $242,000 related to approximately $648,000 of capital loss carryforwards. At December 31, 2015, the Company did not require a valuation allowance as the statute of limitation on these capital loss carryforwards expired. As a result of the Beacon acquisition in 2011, the Company acquired federal net operating loss carryforwards. There are approximately $3,000,000 of NOL carryforwards available to offset future taxable income as of December 31, 2015. If not utilized, these carryforwards will expire in 2030. Also, the Company’s New Jersey NOL carryforwards in 86 $ $ 23,778 10,869 2,825 481 1,464 3,868 941 3,254 5,791 4,915 139 1,058 4,311 2,048 65,742 — 10,124 5,156 146 347 2,646 18,419 47,323 24,160 10,658 3,009 499 387 3,963 949 3,264 5,734 5,202 430 1,376 5,178 1,073 65,882 (242) 9,925 4,089 311 395 5,191 19,911 45,729 the amount of $1,000,000 which are scheduled to expire in 2033 and Pennsylvania NOL carryforwards in the amount of $1,000,000, which are set to expire in 2016. The federal NOLs are subject to a combined annual Code Section 382 limitation in the amount of approximately $900,000. Management has determined that it is more likely than not that it will realize the net deferred tax asset based upon the nature and timing of the items listed above. In order to fully realize the net deferred tax asset, the Company will need to generate future taxable income. Management has projected that the Company will generate sufficient taxable income to utilize the net deferred tax asset; however, there can be no assurance that such levels of taxable income will be generated. The Company’s policy is to report interest and penalties, if any, related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense. The Company did not have any liabilities for uncertain tax positions or any known unrecognized tax benefits at December 31, 2015 and 2014. The Company and its subsidiaries file a consolidated U.S. Federal income tax return and each entity files a separate state income tax return. The Company’s federal income tax returns are open for examination from 2012 and the state income tax returns are open for examination from 2011. PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data NOTE 13 Lease Commitments The approximate future minimum rental commitments, exclusive of taxes and other related charges, for all significant non-cancellable operating leases at December 31, 2015, are summarized as follows (in thousands): Year ending December 31, 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 Thereafter $ $ 6,838 6,130 5,663 5,246 4,821 8,842 37,540 Rental expense was $8,889,000, $8,056,000 and $6,850,000 for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. NOTE 14 Commitments, Contingencies and Concentrations of Credit Risk In the normal course of business, various commitments and contingent liabilities are outstanding which are not reflected in the accompanying consolidated financial statements. In the opinion of management, the consolidated financial position of the Company will not be materially affected by the outcome of such commitments or contingent liabilities. A substantial portion of the Bank’s loans are one- to four-family residential first mortgage loans secured by real estate located in New Jersey. Accordingly, the collectability of a substantial portion of the Bank’s loan portfolio and the recovery of a substantial portion of the carrying amount of other real estate owned are susceptible to changes in local real estate market conditions. NOTE 15 Regulatory Capital Requirements FDIC regulations require banks to maintain minimum levels of regulatory capital. Under the regulations in effect at December 31, 2015, the Bank is required to maintain: (1) a Tier 1 capital to total assets leverage ratio of 4.0%; (2) a common equity Tier 1 capital to risk-based assets ratio of 4.5%; (3) a Tier 1 capital to risk-based assets ratio of 6.0%; and (4) a total capital to risk-based assets ratio of 8.0%. In addition to establishing the minimum regulatory capital requirements, the regulations limit capital distributions and certain discretionary bonus payments to management if the institution does not hold a “capital conservation buffer” consisting of 2.5% of common equity Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted asset above the amount necessary to meet its minimum risk-based capital requirements. The capital conservation buffer requirement is being phased in beginning January 1, 2016 at 0.625% of risk- weighted assets and increasing each year until fully implemented at 2.5% on January 1, 2019. Under its prompt corrective action regulations, the FDIC is required to take certain supervisory actions (and may take additional discretionary actions) with respect to an undercapitalized institution. Such actions could have a direct material effect on an institution’s financial statements. The regulations establish a framework for the classification of savings institutions into five categories: well capitalized, adequately capitalized, undercapitalized, significantly undercapitalized, and critically undercapitalized. Generally, an institution is considered well capitalized if it has: a leverage (Tier 1) capital ratio of at least 5.00%; a common equity Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of 6.50%; a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of at least 8.00%; and a total risk-based capital ratio of at least 10.00%. The foregoing capital ratios are based in part on specific quantitative measures of assets, liabilities and certain off-balance sheet items as calculated under regulatory accounting practices. Capital amounts and classifications are also subject to qualitative judgments by the FDIC about capital components, risk weightings and other factors. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, the Bank exceeded all minimum capital adequacy requirements to which it is subject. Further, the most recent FDIC notification categorized the Bank as a well-capitalized institution under the prompt corrective action regulations. There have been no conditions or events since that notification that management believes have changed the Bank’s capital classification. The Company is regulated as a bank holding company, and as such, is subject to examination, regulation and periodic reporting under the Bank Holding Company Act, as administered by the Federal Reserve Board (“FRB”). The FRB has adopted capital adequacy guidelines for bank holding companies on a consolidated basis substantially similar to those of the FDIC for the Bank. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, the Company was “well capitalized” under FRB guidelines. Regulations of the FRB provide that a bank holding company must serve as a source of strength to any of its subsidiary banks and must not conduct its activities in an unsafe or unsound manner. Under the prompt corrective action provisions discussed above, a bank holding company parent of an undercapitalized subsidiary bank would be directed to guarantee, within limitations, the capital restoration plan that is required of such an undercapitalized bank. If the undercapitalized bank fails to 87 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data file an acceptable capital restoration plan or fails to implement an accepted plan, the FRB may prohibit the bank holding company parent of the undercapitalized bank from paying any dividend or making any other form of capital distribution without the prior approval of the FRB. The following table shows the Company’s actual capital amounts and ratios as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, compared to the FRB minimum capital adequacy requirements and the FRB requirements for classification as a well-capitalized institution (dollars in thousands). As of December 31, 2015: Tier 1 leverage capital Common equity Tier 1 risk-based capital Tier 1 risk-based capital Total risk-based capital As of December 31, 2014: Tier 1 leverage capital Tier 1 risk-based capital Total risk-based capital Actual capital FRB minimum capital adequacy requirements Amount Ratio Amount Ratio To be well-capitalized under prompt corrective action provisions Amount Ratio $ $ 779,139 779,139 779,139 840,563 9.25% $ 11.65 11.65 12.56 337,070 301,041 401,388 535,184 4.00% $ 4.50 6.00 8.00 421,337 434,837 535,184 668,981 5.00% 6.50 8.00 10.00 Actual capital Amount Ratio FRB minimum capital adequacy requirements Ratio Amount To be well-capitalized under prompt corrective action provisions Amount Ratio 740,958 740,958 802,692 9.21% $ 12.06 13.06 321,809 245,859 491,717 4.00% $ 4.00 8.00 402,262 368,788 614,646 5.00% 6.00 10.00 The following table shows the Bank’s actual capital amounts and ratios as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, compared to the FDIC minimum capital adequacy requirements and the FDIC requirements for classification as a well-capitalized institution (dollars in thousands). Actual capital Amount Ratio FDIC minimum capital adequacy requirements Ratio Amount To be well-capitalized under prompt corrective action provisions Amount Ratio As of December 31, 2015: Tier 1 leverage capital Common equity Tier 1 risk-based capital $ Tier 1 risk-based capital Total risk-based capital 709,690 709,690 709,690 771,268 8.42% $ 10.61 10.61 11.53 337,060 301,030 401,374 535,165 4.00% $ 4.50 6.00 8.00 421,325 434,822 535,165 668,956 5.00% 6.50 8.00 10.00 As of December 31, 2014: Tier 1 leverage capital Tier 1 risk-based capital Total risk-based capital Actual capital Amount Ratio FDIC minimum capital adequacy requirements Ratio Amount To be well-capitalized under prompt corrective action provisions Amount Ratio $ 674,483 674,483 736,217 8.38% $ 10.97 11.98 321,805 245,853 491,705 4.00% $ 4.00 8.00 402,257 368,779 614,631 5.00% 6.00 10.00 NOTE 16 Fair Value Measurements The Company utilizes fair value measurements to record fair value adjustments to certain assets and liabilities and to determine fair value disclosures. The determination of fair values of financial instruments often requires the use of estimates. Where quoted market values in an active market are not readily available, the Company utilizes various valuation techniques to estimate fair value. Fair value is an estimate of the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. However, in many instances fair value estimates may not be substantiated by comparison to independent markets and may not be realized in an immediate sale of the financial instrument. 88 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data GAAP establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value. The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1 measurements) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3 measurements). The three levels of fair value hierarchy are as follows: pricing services has not historically resulted in adjustment in the prices obtained from the pricing service. The Company also may hold equity securities and debt instruments issued by the U.S. government and U.S. government-sponsored agencies that are traded in active markets with readily accessible quoted market prices that are considered Level 1 inputs. Level 1: Unadjusted quoted market prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities; Derivatives Level 2: Quoted prices in markets that are not active, or inputs that are observable either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the asset or liability; and Level 3: Prices or valuation techniques that require inputs that are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable (i.e., supported by little or no market activity). A financial instrument’s level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The valuation techniques are based upon the unpaid principal balance only, and exclude any accrued interest or dividends at the measurement date. Interest income and expense and dividend income are recorded within the consolidated statements of income depending on the nature of the instrument using the effective interest method based on acquired discount or premium. Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis The valuation techniques described below were used to measure fair value of financial instruments in the table below on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014. Securities Available for Sale For securities available for sale, fair value was estimated using a market approach. The majority of the Company’s securities are fixed income instruments that are not quoted on an exchange, but are traded in active markets. Prices for these instruments are obtained through third party data service providers or dealer market participants with which the Company has historically transacted both purchases and sales of securities. Prices obtained from these sources include market quotations and matrix pricing. Matrix pricing, a Level 2 input, is a mathematical technique used principally to value certain securities to benchmark or to comparable securities. The Company evaluates the quality of Level 2 matrix pricing through comparison to similar assets with greater liquidity and evaluation of projected cash flows. As the Company is responsible for the determination of fair value, it performs quarterly analyses on the prices received from the pricing service to determine whether the prices are reasonable estimates of fair value. Specifically, the Company compares the prices received from the pricing service to a secondary pricing source. Additionally, the Company compares changes in the reported market values and returns to relevant market indices to test the reasonableness of the reported prices. The Company’s internal price verification procedures and review of fair value methodology documentation provided by independent The Company records all derivatives on the balance sheet at fair value. The accounting for changes in the fair value of derivatives depends on the intended use of the derivative, whether the Company has elected to designate a derivative in a hedging relationship and apply hedge accounting and whether the hedging relationship has satisfied the criteria necessary to apply hedge accounting. Currently, none of the Company’s derivatives are designated in qualifying hedging relationships. The existing interest rate derivatives result from a service provided to certain qualifying borrowers in a loan related transaction and, therefore, are not used to manage interest rate risk in the Company’s assets or liabilities. As such, all changes in fair value of the Company’s derivatives are recognized directly in earnings. The Company also uses interest rate swaps as part of its interest rate risk management strategy. Interest rate swaps designated as cash flow hedges, and which satisfy hedge accounting requirements, involve the receipt of variable amounts from a counterparty in exchange for the Company making fixed-rate payments over the life of the agreements without the exchange of the underlying notional amount. These derivatives were used to hedge the variable cash outflows associated with FHLBNY borrowings. The effective portion of changes in the fair value of these derivatives are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income, and are subsequently reclassified into earnings in the period that the hedged forecasted transaction affects earnings. The ineffective portion of the change in fair value of these derivatives are recognized directly in earnings. The fair value of the Company’s derivatives are determined using discounted cash flow analysis using observable market-based inputs, which are considered Level 2 inputs. Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Non-Recurring Basis The valuation techniques described below were used to estimate fair value of financial instruments measured on a non-recurring basis as of December 31, 2015 and 2014. Collateral Dependent Impaired Loans For loans measured for impairment based on the fair value of the underlying collateral, fair value was estimated using a market approach. The Company measures the fair value of collateral underlying impaired loans primarily through obtaining independent appraisals that rely upon quoted market prices for similar assets in active markets. These appraisals include adjustments, on an individual case-by-case basis, to comparable assets based on the appraisers’ market knowledge and experience, as well as adjustments for estimated costs to sell of up to 6%. The Company classifies these loans as Level 3 within the fair value hierarchy. 89 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data Foreclosed Assets Assets acquired through foreclosure or deed in lieu of foreclosure are carried at fair value, less estimated costs to sell of up to 6%. Fair value is generally based on independent appraisals that rely upon quoted market prices for similar assets in active markets. These appraisals include adjustments, on an individual case basis, to comparable assets based on the appraisers’ market knowledge and experience, and are classified as Level 3. When an asset is acquired, the excess of the loan balance over fair value, less estimated costs to sell, is charged to the allowance for loan losses. A reserve for foreclosed assets may be established to provide for possible write-downs and selling costs that occur subsequent to foreclosure. Foreclosed assets are carried net of the related reserve. Operating results from real estate owned, including rental income, operating expenses, and gains and losses realized from the sales of real estate owned, are recorded as incurred. There were no changes to the valuation techniques for fair value measurements during the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014. The following tables present the assets and liabilities reported on the consolidated statements of financial condition at their fair value as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, by level within the fair value hierarchy (in thousands). Measured on a recurring basis: Securities available for sale: U.S. Treasury obligations Agency obligations Mortgage-backed securities State and municipal obligations Corporate obligations Equities Total securities available for sale Derivative assets Derivative liabilities Measured on a non-recurring basis: Loans measured for impairment based on the fair value of the underlying collateral Foreclosed assets Measured on a recurring basis: Securities available for sale: U.S. Treasury obligations Agency obligations Mortgage-backed securities State and municipal obligations Corporate obligations Equities Total securities available for sale Derivative assets Derivative liabilities Measured on a non-recurring basis: Loans measured for impairment based on the fair value of the underlying collateral Foreclosed assets 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) December 31, 2015 8,004 82,330 863,861 4,308 5,512 519 964,534 6,854 971,388 6,745 9,481 10,546 20,027 8,004 82,330 — — 519 90,853 — 90,853 — — — — — 863,861 4,308 5,512 — 873,681 6,854 880,535 6,745 — — — — — — — — — — 9,481 10,546 20,027 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) December 31, 2014 8,016 95,076 957,257 7,002 6,520 524 1,074,395 2,046 1,076,441 2,052 23,086 5,098 28,184 8,016 95,076 — — — 524 103,616 — 103,616 — — — — — — 957,257 7,002 6,520 — 970,779 2,046 972,825 2,052 — — — — — — — — — — — — — 23,086 5,098 28,184 $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ There were no transfers between Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 during the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014. 90 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report Other Fair Value Disclosures The Company is required to disclose estimated fair value of financial instruments, both assets and liabilities on and off the balance sheet, for which it is practicable to estimate fair value. The following is a description of valuation methodologies used for those assets and liabilities. Cash and Cash Equivalents For cash and due from banks, federal funds sold and short-term investments, the carrying amount approximates fair value. Investment Securities Held to Maturity For investment securities held to maturity, fair value was estimated using a market approach. The majority of the Company’s securities are fixed income instruments that are not quoted on an exchange, but are traded in active markets. Prices for these instruments are obtained through third party data service providers or dealer market participants with which the Company has historically transacted both purchases and sales of securities. Prices obtained from these sources include market quotations and matrix pricing. Matrix pricing, a Level 2 input, is a mathematical technique used principally to value certain securities to benchmark or comparable securities. The Company evaluates the quality of Level 2 matrix pricing through comparison to similar assets with greater liquidity and evaluation of projected cash flows. As the Company is responsible for the determination of fair value, it performs quarterly analyses on the prices received from the pricing service to determine whether the prices are reasonable estimates of fair value. Specifically, the Company compares the prices received from the pricing service to a secondary pricing source. Additionally, the Company compares changes in the reported market values and returns to relevant market indices to test the reasonableness of the reported prices. The Company’s internal price verification procedures and review of fair value methodology documentation provided by independent pricing services has not historically resulted in adjustment in the prices obtained from the pricing service. The Company also holds debt instruments issued by the U.S. government and U.S. government agencies that are traded in active markets with readily accessible quoted market prices that are considered Level 1 within the fair value hierarchy. FHLBNY Stock The carrying value of FHLBNY stock was its cost. The fair value of FHLBNY stock is based on redemption at par value. The Company classifies the estimated fair value as Level 1 within the fair value hierarchy. Loans Fair values are estimated for portfolios of loans with similar financial characteristics. Loans are segregated by type such as commercial mortgage, residential mortgage, commercial, construction and consumer. Each loan category is further segmented into fixed and adjustable rate interest terms and into performing and non- performing categories. The fair value of performing loans was PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data estimated using a combination of techniques, including a discounted cash flow model that utilizes a discount rate that reflects the Company’s current pricing for loans with similar characteristics and remaining maturity, adjusted by an amount for estimated credit losses inherent in the portfolio at the balance sheet date. The rates take into account the expected yield curve, as well as an adjustment for prepayment risk, when applicable. The Company classifies the estimated fair value of its loan portfolio as Level 3. The fair value for significant non-performing loans was based on recent external appraisals of collateral securing such loans, adjusted for the timing of anticipated cash flows. The Company classifies the estimated fair value of its non-performing loan portfolio as Level 3. Deposits The fair value of deposits with no stated maturity, such as non- interest bearing demand deposits and savings deposits, was equal to the amount payable on demand and classified as Level 1. The estimated fair value of certificates of deposit was based on the discounted value of contractual cash flows. The discount rate was estimated using the Company’s current rates offered for deposits with similar remaining maturities. The Company classifies the estimated fair value of its certificates of deposit portfolio as Level 2. Borrowed Funds The fair value of borrowed funds was estimated by discounting future cash flows using rates available for debt with similar terms and maturities and was classified by the Company as Level 2 within the fair value hierarchy. Commitments to Extend Credit and Letters of Credit The fair value of commitments to extend credit and letters of credit was estimated using the fees currently charged to enter into similar agreements, taking into account the remaining terms of the agreements and the present creditworthiness of the counterparties. For fixed rate loan commitments, fair value also considers the difference between current levels of interest rates and the committed rates. The fair value estimates of commitments to extend credit and letters of credit are deemed immaterial. Limitations Fair value estimates are made at a specific point in time, based on relevant market information and information about the financial instrument. These estimates do not reflect any premium or discount that could result from offering for sale at one time the Company’s entire holdings of a particular financial instrument. Because no market exists for a significant portion of the Company’s financial instruments, fair value estimates are based on judgments regarding future expected loss experience, current economic conditions, risk characteristics of various financial instruments, and other factors. These estimates are subjective in nature and involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgment and, therefore, cannot be determined with precision. Changes in assumptions could significantly affect the estimates. 91 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data Fair value estimates are based on existing on- and off-balance sheet financial instruments without attempting to estimate the value of anticipated future business and the value of assets and liabilities that are not considered financial instruments. tax assets and premises and equipment. In addition, the tax ramifications related to the realization of the unrealized gains and losses can have a significant effect on fair value estimates and have not been considered in the estimates. Significant assets and liabilities that are not considered financial assets or liabilities include goodwill and other intangibles, deferred The following tables present the Company’s financial instruments at their carrying and fair values as of December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014. Fair values are presented by level within the fair value hierarchy. Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2015 Using: Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) Fair value Carrying value $ 102,226 102,226 102,226 — 8,004 82,330 863,861 4,308 5,512 519 964,534 4,096 1,597 458,062 9,929 473,684 78,181 6,476,250 6,854 5,184,266 739,721 5,923,987 1,707,632 6,745 8,004 82,330 863,861 4,308 5,512 519 964,534 4,097 1,658 472,661 9,915 488,331 78,181 6,509,502 6,854 5,184,266 742,020 5,926,286 1,726,726 6,745 8,004 82,330 — — — 519 90,853 4,097 — — — 4,097 78,181 — 5,184,266 — 5,184,266 — — — 863,861 4,308 5,512 — 873,681 — 1,658 472,661 9,915 484,234 — — 6,854 — 742,020 742,020 1,726,726 6,745 — — — — — — — — — — — — — — 6,509,502 — — — — (Dollars in thousands) Financial assets: Cash and cash equivalents Securities available for sale: U.S. Treasury obligations Agency obligations Mortgage-backed securities State and municipal obligations Corporate obligations Equity securities Total securities available for sale Investment securities held to maturity: Agency obligations Mortgage-backed securities State and municipal obligations Corporate obligations Total securities held to maturity FHLBNY stock Loans, net of allowance for loan losses Derivative assets Financial liabilities: Deposits other than certificates of deposits Certificates of deposit Total deposits Borrowings Derivative liabilities $ $ $ $ $ 92 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2014 Using: Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) Fair value Carrying value $ 103,762 103,762 103,762 — (Dollars in thousands) Financial assets: Cash and cash equivalents Securities available for sale: U.S. Treasury obligations Agency obligations Mortgage-backed securities State and municipal obligations Corporate obligations Equity securities Total securities available for sale Investment securities held to maturity: Agency obligations Mortgage-backed securities State and municipal obligations Corporate obligations Total securities held to maturity FHLBNY stock Loans, net of allowance for loan losses Derivative assets Financial liabilities: Deposits other than certificates of deposits Certificates of deposit Total deposits Borrowings Derivative liabilities $ $ $ $ $ 8,016 95,076 957,257 7,002 6,520 524 1,074,395 6,813 2,816 449,410 10,489 469,528 69,789 6,023,771 2,046 4,966,834 825,689 5,792,523 1,509,851 2,052 8,016 95,076 957,257 7,002 6,520 524 1,074,395 6,810 2,939 462,238 10,486 482,473 69,789 6,104,558 2,046 4,966,834 830,233 5,797,067 1,516,966 2,052 8,016 95,076 — — — 524 103,616 6,810 — — — 6,810 69,789 — — 4,966,834 — 4,966,834 — — — — 957,257 7,002 6,520 — 970,779 — 2,939 462,238 10,486 475,663 — — 2,046 — 830,233 830,233 1,516,966 2,052 — — — — — — — — — — — — — — 6,104,558 — — — — — — 93 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data NOTE 17 Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) The following tables are a summary of certain quarterly financial data for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014. (In thousands, except per share data) Interest income Interest expense Net interest income Provision for loan losses Net interest income after provision for loan losses Non-interest income Non-interest expense Income before income tax expense Income tax expense Net income Basic earnings per share Diluted earnings per share (In thousands, except per share data) Interest income Interest expense Net interest income Provision for loan losses Net interest income after provision for loan losses Non-interest income Non-interest expense Income before income tax expense Income tax expense Net income Basic earnings per share Diluted earnings per share NOTE 18 Earnings Per Share March 31 72,231 10,303 61,928 600 61,328 10,303 43,437 28,194 8,392 19,802 0.32 0.32 March 31 64,523 9,322 55,201 400 54,801 8,116 38,190 24,727 7,698 17,029 0.30 0.30 $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ 2015 Quarters Ended June 30 72,188 10,514 61,674 1,100 60,574 16,942 46,119 31,397 9,601 21,796 0.35 0.35 September 30 73,013 10,466 62,547 1,400 61,147 12,110 43,614 29,643 9,034 20,609 0.33 0.33 2014 Quarters Ended June 30 67,386 9,985 57,401 1,500 55,901 10,327 43,671 22,557 6,206 16,351 0.28 0.28 September 30 73,652 10,683 62,969 1,500 61,469 11,309 45,833 26,945 7,913 19,032 0.30 0.30 December 31 74,349 10,618 63,731 1,250 62,481 15,867 47,419 30,929 9,414 21,515 0.34 0.34 December 31 73,800 10,482 63,318 1,250 62,068 11,416 42,297 31,187 9,968 21,219 0.34 0.34 The following is a reconciliation of the outstanding shares used in the basic and diluted earnings per share calculations. (Dollars in thousands, except per share data) Net income Basic weighted average common shares outstanding Plus: Dilutive shares Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding Earnings per share: Basic Diluted For the Year Ended December 31, 2015 83,722 62,945,669 2014 73,631 60,388,398 2013 70,534 57,236,909 169,049 63,114,718 173,672 60,562,070 124,534 57,361,443 1.33 1.33 1.22 1.22 1.23 1.23 $ $ $ Anti-dilutive stock options and awards totaling 469,018 shares, 988,931 shares and 659,531 shares at December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively, were excluded from the earnings per share calculations. 94 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data NOTE 19 Parent-only Financial Information The condensed financial statements of Provident Financial Services, Inc. (parent company only) are presented below: Condensed Statements of Financial Condition (Dollars in Thousands) Assets Cash and due from banks Securities available for sale, at fair value Investment in subsidiary Due from subsidiary—SAP ESOP loan Other assets Total assets Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity Other liabilities Total stockholders’ equity Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity Condensed Statements of Operations (Dollars in Thousands) Dividends from subsidiary Interest income Investment gain Total income Non-interest expense Total expense Income before income tax expense Income tax expense Income before undistributed net income of subsidiary Equity in undistributed net income of subsidiary (dividends in excess of earnings) Net income December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 $ 22,280 $ 519 1,126,616 (2,539) 49,872 52 $ 1,196,800 $ 735 1,196,065 1,196,800 $ $ 10,475 524 1,077,624 2,794 53,438 34 1,144,889 790 1,144,099 1,144,889 For the Years Ended December 31, 2015 41,285 2,153 12 43,450 812 812 42,638 505 42,133 41,589 83,722 $ $ 2014 36,118 2,276 11 38,405 814 814 37,591 551 37,040 36,591 73,631 2013 32,320 2,390 9 34,719 891 891 33,828 563 33,265 37,269 70,534 95 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data Condensed Statements of Cash Flows (Dollars in Thousands) Cash flows from operating activities: Net income Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities Dividends in excess of earnings (equity in undistributed net income) of subsidiary ESOP allocation SAP allocation Stock option allocation Decrease in due from subsidiary—SAP (Decrease) increase in other assets Decrease in other liabilities Net cash provided by operating activities Cash flows from investing activities: Cash consideration paid for business acquisition Net decrease in ESOP loan Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities Cash flows from financing activities: Purchases of treasury stock Cash dividends paid Shares issued dividend reinvestment plan Stock options exercised Net cash used in 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 For the Years Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 $ 83,722 73,631 70,534 (41,589) 2,997 4,625 272 5,333 (8,406) (55) 46,899 — 3,566 3,566 (1,988) (41,285) 1,447 3,166 (38,660) 11,805 10,475 22,280 $ (36,591) 2,654 6,359 298 3,475 15,454 (259) 65,021 (31,562) 3,278 (28,284) (4,420) (36,118) 1,336 144 (39,058) (2,321) 12,796 10,475 (37,269) 2,559 4,869 297 5,814 (6,912) (172) 39,720 — 3,034 3,034 (5,899) (32,320) 1,186 412 (36,621) 6,133 6,663 12,796 96 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data NOTE 20 Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income The following table presents the components of other comprehensive (loss) income both gross and net of tax, for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 (in thousands): Before Tax 2015 Tax Effect For the Years Ended December 31, 2014 After Tax Before Tax Tax Effect After Tax Before Tax 2013 Tax Effect After Tax Components of Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income: Unrealized gains and losses on securities available for sale: Net (losses) gains arising during the period Reclassification adjustment for gains included in net income Total Other-than-temporary impairment on debt securities available for sale: Other-than-temporary impairment losses on securities Reclassification adjustment for impairment losses included in net income Total Unrealized (losses) on derivatives (cash flow hedges) Amortization related to post retirement obligations Total other comprehensive (loss) income $ (5,683) 2,282 (3,401) 17,868 (7,176) 10,692 (32,845) 13,417 (19,428) (654) (6,337) 263 2,545 (391) (3,792) (251) 17,617 101 (7,075) (150) 10,542 (996) (33,841) 407 13,824 (589) (20,017) — — — (122) — — — 49 — — — (73) — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — 434 434 (177) (177) 257 257 — — — 2,156 (866) 1,290 (9,462) 3,800 (5,662) 12,161 (4,968) 7,193 $ (4,303) 1,728 (2,575) 8,155 (3,275) 4,880 (21,246) 8,679 (12,567) The following table presents the changes in the components of accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax, for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands): Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income by Component, net of tax For the Years Ended December 31, 2015 Unrealized gains (losses) on Derivatives (cash flow hedges) Post- Retirement Obligations Unrealized Gains on Securities Available for Sale 2014 Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Unrealized Gains on Securities Available for Sale Post- Retirement Obligations Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Balance at the beginning of the period, Current period change in other comprehensive income (loss) Balance at the end of the period $ $ 7,743 (7,714) (3,792) 3,951 1,290 (6,424) — (73) (73) 29 (2,799) (2,052) (4,851) (2,575) (2,546) 10,542 7,743 (5,662) (7,714) 4,880 29 97 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data The following table summarizes the reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 (in thousands): Reclassifications Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Amount reclassified from AOCI for the years ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Affected line item in the Consolidated Statement of Income Details of AOCI: Securities available for sale: Realized net gains on the sale of securities available for sale $ Realized other-than-temporary impairment losses securities available for sale Post-retirement obligations: Amortization of actuarial losses Realized loss related to lump sum pension settlement 654 (263) 391 — — — 774 (311) 463 251 (101) 150 — — — 237 (95) 142 — — — 854 (1,336) 546 (790) (498) 996 Net gain on securities transactions (407) 589 Net of tax Income tax expense Net impairment losses on securities recognized in earnings (434) 177 Income tax expense (257) Net of tax 1,367 Compensation and employee benefits(1) Income tax expense (558) 809 Net of tax — Compensation and employee benefits(1) — Income tax expense — Net of tax 1,141 Net of tax Total reclassifications (1) This item is included in the computation of net periodic benefit cost. See Note 11. Benefit Plans $ NOTE 21 Derivative and Hedging Activities The Company is exposed to certain risks arising from both its business operations and economic conditions. The Company principally manages its exposures to a wide variety of business and operational risks through management of its core business activities. The Company manages economic risks, including interest rate, liquidity, and credit risk, primarily by managing the amount, sources, and duration of its assets and liabilities. Non-designated Hedges. Derivatives not designated in qualifying hedging relationships are not speculative and result from a service the Company provides to certain qualifying commercial borrowers in a loan related transaction and, therefore, are not used to manage interest rate risk in the Company’s assets or liabilities. The Company executes interest rate swaps with commercial banking customers to facilitate their respective risk management strategies. Those interest rate swaps are simultaneously hedged by offsetting interest rate swaps that the Company executes with a third party, such that the Company minimizes its net risk exposure resulting from such transactions. As the interest rate swaps associated with this program do not meet the strict hedge accounting requirements, changes in the fair value of both the customer swaps and the offsetting swaps are recognized directly in earnings. For the years ended December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, the Company had 23 and 9 interest rate swaps with an aggregate notional amount of $391.4 million and $94.9 million related to this program. Cash flow Hedges of Interest Rate Risk. The Company’s objectives in using interest rate derivatives are to add stability to interest expense and to manage its exposure to interest rate movements. To accomplish this objective, the Company primarily uses interest rate swaps as part of its interest rate risk management strategy. Interest rate swaps designated as cash flow hedges involve the receipt of variable amounts from a counterparty in exchange for the Company making fixed-rate payments over the life of the agreements without exchange of the underlying notional amount. The effective portion of changes in the fair value of derivatives designated and that qualify as cash flow hedges are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income and are subsequently reclassified into earnings in the period that the hedged forecasted transaction affects earnings. During the year ended December 31, 2015, such derivatives were used to hedge the variable cash outflows associated with Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings. The ineffective portion of the change in fair value of the derivatives are recognized directly in earnings. The Company implemented this program during the quarter ended September 30, 2015. During the year ended December 31, 2015, the Company’s did not record any hedge ineffectiveness. Amounts reported in accumulated other comprehensive income related to derivatives will be reclassified to interest expense as interest payments are made on the Company’s debt. During the next twelve months, the Company estimates that $297,000 will be reclassified as an increase to interest expense. As of December 31, 2015, the Company had one outstanding interest rate derivative with a notional amount of $40 million that was designated as a cash flow hedge of interest rate risk. 98 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data The table below presents the fair value of the Company’s derivative financial instruments as well as their classification on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands): As of December 31, 2015: Asset Derivatives Liability Derivatives Derivatives not designated as a hedging instruments: Interest rate products Credit contracts Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments Derivatives designated as a hedging instrument: Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition Other assets Other assets Interest rate products Other assets Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition Fair Value 6,849 Other liabilities 5 6,854 — Other liabilities — $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ Derivatives not designated as a hedging instruments: Interest rate products Credit contracts Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments As of December 31, 2014: Asset Derivatives Liability Derivatives Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition Other assets Other assets $ $ Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition Fair Value 2,040 Other liabilities 6 2,046 $ $ Fair Value 6,623 — 6,623 122 122 Fair Value 2,052 — 2,052 The tables below present the effect of the Company’s derivative financial instruments on the Consolidated Statements of Income for the year ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands). Derivatives not designated as a hedging instruments: Interest rate products Credit contracts Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments Derivatives designated as a hedging instruments: Interest rate products Total derivatives designated as a hedging instruments Gain (loss) recognized in Income on derivatives For the Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 238 $ (1) 237 $ (122) (122) $ (3) 6 3 — — Consolidated Statements of Income Other income Other income Other income $ $ $ The Company has agreements with certain of its derivative counterparties that contain a provision that if the Company defaults on any of its indebtedness, including default where repayment of the indebtedness has not been accelerated by the lender, then the Company could also be declared in default on its derivative obligations. The Company also has agreements with certain of its derivative counterparties that contain a provision that if the Company fails to maintain its status as a well / adequate capitalized institution, then the counterparty could terminate the derivative positions and the Company would be required to settle its obligations under the agreements. As of December 31, 2015, the termination value of derivatives in a net liability position, which includes accrued interest, was $6.8 million. The Company has minimum collateral posting thresholds with certain of its derivative counterparties, and has posted collateral of $7.8 million against its obligations under these agreements. If the Company had breached any of these provisions at December 31, 2015, it could have been required to settle its obligations under the agreements at the termination value. 99 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART II Item 9B Other Information ITEM 9. Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure None. ITEM 9A. Controls and Procedures Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures Christopher Martin, the Company’s Principal Executive Officer, and Thomas M. Lyons, the Company’s Principal Accounting Officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) as of December 31, 2015. Based upon their evaluation, they each found that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective. Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting The management of Provident Financial Services, Inc. (the “Company”) is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. The Company’s internal control system is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance to the Company’s management and board of directors regarding the preparation and fair presentation of published financial statements. The Company’s internal control over financial reporting includes policies and procedures that pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect transactions and dispositions of assets; provide reasonable assurances that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and the directors of the Company; and 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 its financial statements. All internal control systems, no matter how well designed, have inherent limitations. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation. 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. Management assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2015 In making this assessment, we used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission in Internal Control-Integrated Framework (“COSO”) (2013). Based on the assessment management believes that, as of December 31, 2015, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting is effective based on those criteria. The Company’s independent registered public accounting firm that audited the consolidated financial statements has issued an audit report on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2015. This report appears on page 57. ITEM 9B. Other Information None. 100 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART III ITEM 10. Directors, executive Officers and Corporate Governance Information required by this item regarding directors, executive officers and corporate governance is incorporated herein by reference to the Proxy Statement to be filed for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on April 28, 2016. ITEM 11. executive Compensation The information required by this item is incorporated herein by reference to the Proxy Statement to be filed for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on April 28, 2016. ITEM 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and management and Related Stockholder matters The information required by this item is incorporated herein by reference to the Proxy Statement to be filed for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on April 28, 2016. Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans Set forth below is information as of December 31, 2015 regarding equity compensation plans categorized by those plans that have been approved by stockholders and those plans that have not been approved by stockholders. Plan Number of Securities to be Issued Upon Exercise of Outstanding Options and Rights(1) Weighted Average Exercise Price(2) Number of Securities Remaining Available For Issuance Under Plan(3) Equity compensation plans approved by stockholders Total 1,084,686 $ 1,084,686 $ 15.32 15.32 3,459,865 3,459,865 (1) Consists of outstanding stock options to purchase 1,084,686 shares of common stock granted under the Company’s stock-based compensation plans. (2) The weighted average exercise price reflects an exercise price of $18.55 for 42,000 stock options, $18.48 for 60,000 stock options and $18.87 for 20,000 stock options granted in 2006; an exercise price of $17.94 for 177,801 stock options, $17.45 for 45,000 stock options and $15.14 for 5,000 stock options granted in 2007; an exercise price of $12.54 for 107,960 stock options granted in 2008; an exercise price of $10.27 for 15,000 stock options and an exercise price of $10.40 for 68,522 stock options granted in 2009; an exercise price of $10.34 for 127,708 stock options granted in 2010; an exercise price of $14.50 for 64,622 stock options granted in 2011; an exercise price of $14.88 for 47,542 stock options and an exercise price of $14.68 for 10,000 stock options granted in 2012; an exercise price of $15.23 for 60,126 stock options granted in 2013; an exercise price of $16.38 for 167,436 stock options granted in 2014; and an exercise price of $18.34 for 65,970 stock options granted in 2015 under the Company’s stock-based compensation plans. (3) Represents the number of available shares that may be granted as stock options and other stock awards under the Company’s stock-based compensation plans. 101 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART III Item 14 Principal Accountant Fees and Services ITEM 13. Certain Relationships and Related transactions, and Director Independence The information required by this item is incorporated herein by reference to the Proxy Statement to be filed for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on April 28, 2016. ITEM 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services The information required by this item is incorporated herein by reference to the Proxy Statement to be filed for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on April 28, 2016. 102 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART IV ITEM 15. exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules The exhibits and financial statement schedules filed as a part of this Form 10-K are as follows: (a) (1) Financial Statements Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition, December 31, 2015 and 2014 Consolidated Statements of Income, Years Ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income, Years Ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity, Years Ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, Years Ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. 50 51 52 53 54 55 58 60 (a) (2) Financial Statement Schedules No financial statement schedules are filed because the required information is not applicable or is included in the consolidated financial statements or related notes. (a) (3) Exhibits 3.1 3.2 4.1 10.1 10.2 10.3 10.4 10.5 10.6 10.7 10.8 10.9 Certificate of Incorporation of Provident Financial Services, Inc. (Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1, and any amendments thereto, with the Securities and Exchange Commission/Registration No. 333-98241.) Amended and Restated Bylaws of Provident Financial Services, Inc. (Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s December 31, 2011 Annual Report to Stockholders on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 29, 2012/File No. 001-31566.) Form of Common Stock Certificate of Provident Financial Services, Inc. (Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1, and any amendments thereto, with the Securities and Exchange Commission/Registration No. 333-98241.) Employment Agreement by and between Provident Financial Services, Inc and Christopher Martin dated September 23, 2009. (Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s September 30, 2009 Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 9, 2009/ File No. 001-31566.) Change in Control Agreement by and between Provident Financial Services, Inc. and Christopher Martin dated as of December 16, 2015. Form of Three-Year Change in Control Agreement between Provident Financial Services, Inc. and each of Messrs. Blum, Kuntz, Lyons and Nesci dated as of December 16, 2015. Form of Two-Year Change in Control Agreement between Provident Financial Services, Inc. and certain senior officers. Form of One-Year Change in Control Agreement between Provident Financial Services, Inc. and certain senior officers. Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan of The Provident Bank. (Filed as Exhibit 10.5 to the Company’s December 31, 2008 Annual Report to Stockholders on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 2, 2009/File No. 001-31566.) Retirement Plan for the Board of Managers of The Provident Bank. (Filed as Exhibit 10.7 to the Company’s December 31, 2008 Annual Report to Stockholders on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 2, 2009 /File No. 001-31566.) Provident Financial Services, Inc. Board of Directors Voluntary Fee Deferral Plan. (Filed as Exhibit 10.9 to the Company’s December 31, 2008 Annual Report to Stockholders on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 2, 2009/File No. 001-31566.) First Savings Bank Directors’ Deferred Fee Plan, as amended. (Filed as Exhibit 10.10 to the Company’s September 30, 2004 Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission /File No. 001-31566.) 103 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART IV Item 15 exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules 10.10 10.11 10.12 10.13 21 23 31.1 31.2 32 101 The Provident Bank Non-Qualified Supplemental Defined Contribution Plan. (Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s May 27, 2010 Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 3, 2010/File No. 001-31566.) Provident Financial Services, Inc. Amended and Restated the Long-Term Equity Incentive Plan. (Filed as an appendix to the Company’s Proxy Statement for the 2014 Annual Meeting of Stockholders filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 14, 2014/File No. 001-31566). Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan. (Filed as Exhibit 10.19 to the Company’s December 31, 2011 Annual Report to Stockholders on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 29, 2012/File No. 001-31566.) Provident Financial Services, Inc. Executive Annual Incentive Plan (filed as an appendix to the Company’s Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 13, 2015/File No. 001-31566) Subsidiaries of the Registrant. Consent of KPMG LLP. Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. The following materials from the Company’s Annual Report to Stockholders on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015, formatted in XBRL (Extensible Business Reporting Language): (i) the Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition, (ii) the Consolidated Statements of Operations, (iii) the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income, (iv) the Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholder’s Equity, (v) the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows and (vi) the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. XBRL Instance Document 101.INS 101.SCH XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document 101.CAL 101.DEF 101.LAB XBRL Taxonomy Extension Labels Linkbase Document 101.PRE XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document (b) The exhibits listed under (3) (a) above are filed herewith. 104 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART IV Item 15 exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules Signatures 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. PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. Date: February 29, 2016 By: /s/ Christopher Martin Christopher Martin Chairman, 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. By: /s/ Christopher Martin Christopher Martin, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) Date: February 29, 2016 By: /s/ thoMas W. Berry Thomas W. Berry, Director By: Date: By: Date: By: /s/ thoMas M. Lyons Thomas M. Lyons, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer) February 29, 2016 /s/ Frank s. Muzio Frank S. Muzio, Senior Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer (Principal Accounting Officer) February 29, 2016 /s/ Laura L. Brooks Laura L. Brooks, Director Date: February 29, 2016 Date: February 29, 2016 By: /s/ Frank L. Fekete Frank L. Fekete, Director By: /s/ terenCe GaLLaGher Terence Gallagher, Director Date: February 29, 2016 Date: February 29, 2016 By: /s/ MattheW k. hardinG Matthew K. Harding, Director By: /s/ thoMas B. hoGan Jr. Thomas B. Hogan Jr., Director Date: February 29, 2016 Date: February 29, 2016 By: Date: /s/ CarLos hernandez Carlos Hernandez, Director /s/ John puGLiese John Pugliese, Director February 29, 2016 By: /s/ edWard o’donneLL Edward O’Donnell, Director 105 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report PART IV Item 15 exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules Exhibit Index 3.1 3.2 4.1 10.1 10.2 10.3 10.4 10.5 10.6 10.7 10.8 10.9 10.10 10.11 10.12 10.13 21 23 31.1 31.2 32 101 Certificate of Incorporation of Provident Financial Services, Inc. (Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1, and any amendments thereto, with the Securities and Exchange Commission/Registration No. 333-98241.) Amended and Restated Bylaws of Provident Financial Services, Inc. (Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s December 31, 2011 Annual Report to Stockholders on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 29, 2012/File No. 001-31566.) Form of Common Stock Certificate of Provident Financial Services, Inc. (Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1, and any amendments thereto, with the Securities and Exchange Commission/Registration No. 333- 98241.) Employment Agreement by and between Provident Financial Services, Inc and Christopher Martin dated September 23, 2009. (Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s September 30, 2009 Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 9, 2009/ File No. 001-31566.) Change in Control Agreement by and between Provident Financial Services, Inc. and Christopher Martin dated as of December 16, 2015. Form of Three-Year Change in Control Agreement between Provident Financial Services, Inc. and each of Messrs. Blum, Kuntz, Lyons and Nesci dated as of December 16, 2015. Form of Two-Year Change in Control Agreement between Provident Financial Services, Inc. and certain senior officers. Form of One-Year Change in Control Agreement between Provident Financial Services, Inc. and certain senior officers. Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan of The Provident Bank. (Filed as Exhibit 10.5 to the Company’s December 31, 2008 Annual Report to Stockholders on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 2, 2009/File No. 001-31566.) Retirement Plan for the Board of Managers of The Provident Bank. (Filed as Exhibit 10.7 to the Company’s December 31, 2008 Annual Report to Stockholders on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 2, 2009 /File No. 001-31566.) Provident Financial Services, Inc. Board of Directors Voluntary Fee Deferral Plan. (Filed as Exhibit 10.9 to the Company’s December 31, 2008 Annual Report to Stockholders on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 2, 2009/File No. 001-31566.) First Savings Bank Directors’ Deferred Fee Plan, as amended. (Filed as Exhibit 10.10 to the Company’s September 30, 2004 Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission /File No. 001-31566.) The Provident Bank Non-Qualified Supplemental Defined Contribution Plan. (Filed as an exhibit to the Company’s May 27, 2010 Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 3, 2010/File No. 001-31566.) Provident Financial Services, Inc. Amended and Restated the Long-Term Equity Incentive Plan. (Filed as an appendix to the Company’s Proxy Statement for the 2014 Annual Meeting of Stockholders filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 14, 2014/File No. 001-31566). Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan. (Filed as Exhibit 10.19 to the Company’s December 31, 2011 Annual Report to Stockholders on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 29, 2012/File No. 001-31566.) Provident Financial Services, Inc. Executive Annual Incentive Plan (filed as an appendix to the Company’s Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 13, 2015/File No. 001- 31566) Subsidiaries of the Registrant. Consent of KPMG LLP. Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. The following materials from the Company’s Annual Report to Stockholders on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015, formatted in XBRL (Extensible Business Reporting Language): (i) the Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition, (ii) the Consolidated Statements of Operations, (iii) the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income, (iv) the Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholder’s Equity, (v) the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows and (vi) the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. XBRL Instance Document 101.INS 101.SCH XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document 101.CAL 101.DEF 101.LAB XBRL Taxonomy Extension Labels Linkbase Document 101.PRE XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document 106 PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. - 2015 Annual Report This page intentionally left blank. COR P OR AT E INF OR M AT ION ANNUAL MEETING CONTACT INFORMATION The annual meeting of stockholders will be held on April 28, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. at the DoubleTree by Hilton Newark Airport Hotel, 128 Frontage Road, Newark, New Jersey. Information regarding Provident Financial Services, Inc. and The Provident Bank is available on our web site: www.providentnj.com For additional information contact: STOCK LISTING The common stock of Provident Financial Services, Inc. is listed on the New York Stock Exchange and trades under the ticker symbol PFS. Investor Relations 100 Wood Avenue South Iselin, New Jersey 08830 1 (732) 590-9300 investorrelations@providentnj.com TRANSFER AGENT INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS Stockholders wishing to update their address, transfer ownership of stock certificates, report lost certificates or inquire regarding other stock registration matters should contact: KPMG LLP 51 JFK Parkway Short Hills, New Jersey 07078 Broadridge Corporate Issuer Solutions, Inc. P.O. Box 1342 Brentwood, New York 11717 1-888-235-9148 shareholder@broadridge.com 239 Washington Street Jersey City, NJ 07302 . ProvidentNJ.com .