FFBC 10-Q Quarterly Report Sept. 30, 2011 | Alphaminr
FIRST FINANCIAL BANCORP /OH/

FFBC 10-Q Quarter ended Sept. 30, 2011

FIRST FINANCIAL BANCORP /OH/
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10-Q 1 ffbc-q3x10qx2011930.htm DOCUMENT FFBC-Q3-10Q-2011.9.30


FORM 10-Q
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington D.C.  20549

x QUARTERLY REPORT UNDER SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2011

OR

o TRANSITION REPORT UNDER SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from ____________________ to ____________________

Commission file number 0-12379
FIRST FINANCIAL BANCORP.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Ohio
31-1042001
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
201 East Fourth Street, Suite 1900
Cincinnati, Ohio
45202
(Address of principal executive offices)
(Zip Code)

Registrant's telephone number, including area code (877) 322-9530

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

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Date 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).    Yes x No o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer.  See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

Large accelerated filer x
Accelerated filer o
Non-accelerated filer o
Smaller reporting company o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of Exchange Act).
Yes o No x

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.

Class
Outstanding at November 4, 2011
Common stock, No par value
58,265,092




FIRST FINANCIAL BANCORP.

INDEX

Page No.
Part I-FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1-Financial Statements
Consolidated Balance Sheets - September 30, 2011 (unaudited) and December 31, 2010
Consolidated Statements of Income - Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2011 and 2010 (unaudited)
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - Nine Months Ended September 30, 2011 and 2010 (unaudited)
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity - Nine Months Ended September 30, 2011 and 2010 (unaudited)
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)
Item 2-Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
Item 3-Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
Item 4-Controls and Procedures
Part II-OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1-Legal Proceedings
Item 1A-Risk Factors
Item 2-Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
Item 6-Exhibits
Signatures




PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM I - FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FIRST FINANCIAL BANCORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

September 30,
2011
December 31,
2010
(Unaudited)
ASSETS
Cash and due from banks
$
108,253

$
105,981

Interest-bearing deposits with other banks
369,130

176,952

Investment securities available-for-sale, at market value (cost $1,092,648 at September 30, 2011 and $904,546 at December 31, 2010)
1,120,179

919,110

Investment securities held-to-maturity (market value $2,953 at September 30, 2011 and $18,066 at December 31, 2010)
2,724

17,406

Other investments
71,492

78,689

Loans held for sale
14,259

29,292

Loans:


Commercial
822,552

800,253

Real estate-construction
136,651

163,543

Real estate-commercial
1,202,035

1,139,931

Real estate-residential
300,165

269,173

Installment
70,034

69,711

Home equity
362,919

341,310

Credit card
30,435

29,563

Lease financing
12,870

2,609

Total loans, excluding covered loans
2,937,661

2,816,093

Less:  Allowance for loan losses
54,537

57,235

Net loans - uncovered
2,883,124

2,758,858

Covered loans
1,151,066

1,481,493

Less:  Allowance for loan losses
48,112

16,493

Net loans – covered
1,102,954

1,465,000

Net loans
3,986,078

4,223,858

Premises and equipment
120,325

118,477

Goodwill
68,922

51,820

Other intangibles
8,436

5,604

FDIC indemnification asset
177,814

222,648

Accrued interest and other assets
290,117

300,388

TOTAL ASSETS
$
6,337,729

$
6,250,225

LIABILITIES


Deposits:


Interest-bearing
$
1,288,721

$
1,111,877

Savings
1,537,420

1,534,045

Time
1,658,031

1,794,843

Total interest-bearing deposits
4,484,172

4,440,765

Noninterest-bearing
814,928

705,484

Total deposits
5,299,100

5,146,249

Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase
95,451

59,842

Long-term debt
76,875

128,880

Other long-term debt
0

20,620

Total borrowed funds
172,326

209,342

Accrued interest and other liabilities
139,171

197,240

TOTAL LIABILITIES
5,610,597

5,552,831

SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY


Common stock - no par value


Authorized - 160,000,000 shares Issued - 68,730,731 shares in 2011 and 2010
578,974

580,097

Retained earnings
329,243

310,271

Accumulated other comprehensive loss
(3,388
)
(12,044
)
Treasury stock, at cost, 10,474,595 shares in 2011 and 10,665,754 shares in 2010
(177,697
)
(180,930
)
TOTAL SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
727,132

697,394

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
$
6,337,729

$
6,250,225


See notes to consolidated financial statements.

FIRST FINANCIAL BANCORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
(Unaudited)

Three months ended
Nine months ended
September 30,
September 30,
2011
2010
2011
2010
Interest income
Loans, including fees
$
70,086

$
75,957

$
216,031

$
230,239

Investment securities


Taxable
7,411

5,386

21,294

16,226

Tax-exempt
176

240

566

720

Total investment securities interest
7,587

5,626

21,860

16,946

Other earning assets
(1,721
)
3,101

(4,059
)
13,996

Total interest income
75,952

84,684

233,832

261,181

Interest expense


Deposits
9,823

14,457

31,990

45,413

Short-term borrowings
44

25

138

61

Long-term borrowings
867

2,034

2,893

7,147

Subordinated debentures and capital securities
0

322

391

956

Total interest expense
10,734

16,838

35,412

53,577

Net interest income
65,218

67,846

198,420

207,604

Provision for loan and lease losses - uncovered
7,643

6,287

14,046

23,823

Provision for loan and lease losses - covered
7,260

20,725

57,171

49,147

Net interest income after provision for loan losses
50,315

40,834

127,203

134,634

Noninterest income


Service charges on deposit accounts
4,793

5,632

14,286

17,098

Trust and wealth management fees
3,377

3,366

10,809

10,579

Bankcard income
2,318

2,193

6,801

6,263

Net gains from sales of loans
1,243

2,749

3,086

3,391

FDIC loss sharing income
8,377

17,800

53,455

40,538

Accelerated discount on covered loans
5,207

9,448

15,746

22,954

Loss on preferred securities
0

0

0

(30
)
Other
2,800

3,707

8,708

11,504

Total noninterest income
28,115

44,895

112,891

112,297

Noninterest expenses


Salaries and employee benefits
27,774

28,790

80,467

88,544

Net occupancy
4,164

4,663

15,517

18,125

Furniture and equipment
2,386

2,490

7,520

7,277

Data processing
1,466

1,191

4,157

3,559

Marketing
1,584

1,230

4,227

3,904

Communication
772

986

2,339

3,016

Professional services
2,062

2,117

7,384

6,306

Debt extinguishment
0

8,029

0

8,029

State intangible tax
546

724

3,147

3,481

FDIC expense
1,211

2,123

4,484

6,040

Loss (gain)-Other real estate owned
(287
)
(152
)
3,198

456

Loss-Covered other real estate owned
2,707

696

8,440

766

Other
8,757

8,423

22,549

27,887

Total noninterest expenses
53,142

61,310

163,429

177,390

Income before income taxes
25,288

24,419

76,665

69,541

Income tax expense
9,670

8,840

27,867

24,590

Net income
15,618

15,579

48,798

44,951

Dividends on preferred stock
0

0

0

1,865

Net income available to common shareholders
$
15,618

$
15,579

$
48,798

$
43,086

Net earnings per common share - basic:
$
0.27

$
0.27

$
0.85

$
0.76

Net earnings per common share - diluted:
$
0.27

$
0.27

$
0.83

$
0.75

Cash dividends declared per share
$
0.27

$
0.10

$
0.51

$
0.30

Average basic shares outstanding
57,735,811

57,570,709

57,674,250

56,765,933

Average diluted shares outstanding
58,654,099

58,531,505

58,699,952

57,758,906

See notes to consolidated financial statements.
FIRST FINANCIAL BANCORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Unaudited, dollars in thousands)
Nine months ended
September 30,
2011
2010
Operating activities
Net income
$
48,798

$
44,951

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:

Provision for loan and lease losses
71,217

72,970

Provision for depreciation and amortization
8,703

8,130

Stock-based compensation expense
2,867

2,155

Pension (income) expense
(1,012
)
1,508

Net amortization of premiums/accretion of discounts on investment securities
3,050

729

Income on trading securities
0

30

Originations of loans held for sale
(95,297
)
(93,113
)
Net gains from sales of loans held for sale
(3,086
)
(3,391
)
Proceeds from sales of loans held for sale
113,416

81,785

Deferred income taxes
(13,504
)
17,607

(Increase) decrease in interest receivable
(691
)
7,745

Increase in cash surrender value of life insurance
(1,092
)
(3,491
)
Decrease in prepaid expenses
4,193

1,687

Decrease in indemnification asset
44,834

49,698

Decrease in accrued expenses
(27,431
)
(32,005
)
(Decrease) increase in interest payable
(1,554
)
1,960

Other
2,176

(11,905
)
Net cash provided by operating activities
155,587

147,050

Investing activities


Proceeds from calls, paydowns and maturities of securities available-for-sale
258,288

112,055

Purchases of securities available-for-sale
(449,440
)
(254,734
)
Proceeds from calls, paydowns and maturities of securities held-to-maturity
11,942

852

Purchases of securities held-to-maturity
0

(577
)
Net decrease in interest-bearing deposits with other banks
(192,178
)
(18,440
)
Net (increase) decrease in loans and leases, excluding covered loans
(15,740
)
86,106

Net decrease in covered assets
264,129

279,900

Proceeds from disposal of other real estate owned
34,186

3,769

Purchases of premises and equipment
(9,706
)
(16,961
)
Net cash proceeds from acquisition
190,711

0

Net cash provided by investing activities
92,192

191,970

Financing activities


Net decrease in total deposits
(189,052
)
(299,377
)
Net increase in short-term borrowings
35,609

21,317

Payments on long-term borrowings
(51,984
)
(255,149
)
Redemption of other long-term debt
(20,620
)
0

Cash dividends paid on common stock
(19,690
)
(16,708
)
Cash dividends paid on preferred stock
0

(1,100
)
Redemption of preferred stock
0

(80,000
)
Issuance of common stock, net of issuance costs
0

91,224

Proceeds from exercise of stock options
63

206

Excess tax benefit on share-based compensation
167

518

Net cash used in financing activities
(245,507
)
(539,069
)
Cash and cash equivalents:


Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
2,272

(200,049
)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
105,981

344,150

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$
108,253

$
144,101


See notes to consolidated financial statements.

FIRST FINANCIAL BANCORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
(Unaudited, dollars in thousands except per share data)

Preferred Stock
Preferred Stock
Common Stock
Common Stock
Retained
Accumulated other comprehensive
Treasury stock
Shares
Amount
Shares
Amount
earnings
income (loss)
Shares
Amount
Total
Balances at January 1, 2010
80,000

$
79,195

62,358,614

$
490,532

$
276,119

$
(10,487
)
(10,924,793
)
$
(185,401
)
$
649,958

Net income




44,951




44,951

Unrealized holding gains on securities available-for-sale arising during the period





1,894



1,894

Change in retirement obligation





1,064



1,064

Unrealized loss on derivatives-Prime Swap market value adj.





(295
)


(295
)
Unrealized loss on derivatives-Trust Preferred Swap market value adj.





(1,470
)


(1,470
)
Foreign Currency Exchange





188



188

Total comprehensive income








46,332

Issuance of common stock


6,372,117

91,224





91,224

Preferred stock-CPP payoff
(80,000
)
(79,235
)






(79,235
)
Cash dividends declared :








Common stock at $0.30 per share




(17,388
)



(17,388
)
Preferred stock




(1,100
)



(1,100
)
Discount on preferred stock

40



(805
)



(765
)
Excess tax benefit on share-based compensation



518





518

Exercise of stock options, net of shares purchased



(1,534
)


81,615

1,384

(150
)
Restricted stock awards, net of forfeitures



(3,586
)


170,381

2,968

(618
)
Share-based compensation expense



2,155





2,155

Balances at September 30, 2010
0

$
0

68,730,731

$
579,309

$
301,777

$
(9,106
)
(10,672,797
)
$
(181,049
)
$
690,931

Balances at January 1, 2011
0

$
0

68,730,731

$
580,097

$
310,271

$
(12,044
)
(10,665,754
)
$
(180,930
)
$
697,394

Net income
48,798

48,798

Unrealized holding gains on securities available-for-sale arising during the period
8,070

8,070

Change in retirement obligation
794

794

Unrealized loss on derivatives-Trust Preferred Swap
391

391

Foreign Currency Exchange
(599
)
(599
)
Total comprehensive income
57,454

Cash dividends declared :
Common stock at $0.51 per share
(29,826
)
(29,826
)
Excess tax benefit on share-based compensation
167

167

Exercise of stock options, net of shares purchased
(228
)
12,808

217

(11
)
Restricted stock awards, net of forfeitures
(3,929
)
178,351

3,016

(913
)
Share-based compensation expense
2,867

2,867

Balances at September 30, 2011
0

$
0

68,730,731

$
578,974

$
329,243

$
(3,388
)
(10,474,595
)
$
(177,697
)
$
727,132


See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

1



FIRST FINANCIAL BANCORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
SEPTEMBER 30, 2011
(Unaudited)

The consolidated financial statements for interim periods are unaudited; however, in the opinion of the management of First Financial Bancorp. (First Financial), all material adjustments (consisting of only normal recurring adjustments) necessary for a fair presentation have been included.

NOTE 1:  BASIS OF PRESENTATION

The consolidated financial statements of First Financial, a bank holding company, include the accounts of First Financial and its wholly-owned subsidiary – First Financial Bank, N.A.  All intercompany transactions and accounts have been eliminated in consolidation.  Certain reclassifications of prior periods’ amounts have been made to conform to current period’s presentation and had no effect on previously reported net income amounts or financial condition.

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) requires management to make estimates, assumptions, and judgments that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes.  Actual realized amounts could differ materially from those estimates.  These interim financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X and serve to update the First Financial Bancorp. Annual Report on Form 10-K (Form 10-K) for the year ended December 31, 2010.  These financial statements may not include all information and notes necessary to constitute a complete set of financial statements under GAAP applicable to annual periods and accordingly should be read in conjunction with the financial information contained in the Form 10-K.  Management believes these unaudited consolidated financial statements reflect all adjustments of a normal recurring nature which are necessary for a fair presentation of the results for the interim periods presented.  The results of operations for the interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the full year or any other interim period.  The Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2010, has been derived from the audited financial statements in the company’s 2010 Form 10-K.

NOTE 2:  RECENTLY ADOPTED AND ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS

In April 2011, the FASB issued an update (ASU No. 2011-02, A Creditor’s Determination of Whether a Restructuring is a Troubled Debt Restructuring ) clarifying the requirements of FASB ASC Topic 310-40, Troubled Debt Restructurings by Creditors.  This update provides additional guidance related to determining whether a creditor has granted a concession, including factors and examples for creditors to consider in evaluating whether a restructuring results in a delay in payment that is insignificant, prohibits creditors from using the borrower’s effective rate test to evaluate whether a concession has been granted to the borrower, and adds factors for creditors to use in determining whether a borrower is experiencing financial difficulties.  This update also ends the FASB’s deferral of the additional disclosure requirements around troubled debt restructurings included in ASU No. 2010-20, Disclosure about the Credit Quality of Financing Receivables and the Allowance for Credit Losses.  The provisions of ASU No. 2011-02, as well as the additional disclosure requirements around troubled debt restructurings, became effective for First Financial for the interim reporting period ended September 30, 2011. For further detail on troubled debt restructurings, see Note 10 – Loans (Excluding Covered Loans).

In April 2011, the FASB issued an update (ASU No. 2011-03, Reconsideration of Effective Control for Repurchase Agreements ) , which simplified the accounting for arrangements such as repurchase and securities lending agreements. The collateral maintenance requirement will be eliminated from the assessment of effective control, which could result in more transactions being accounted for as secured borrowings rather than sales. The assessment of effective control will focus on a transferor's contractual rights and obligations, not the amount of collateral obtained to repurchase or redeem the transferred financial asset. Under the amended guidance, a transferor maintains effective control over transferred financial assets, and thus accounts for the transfer as a secured borrowing, if there is an agreement that both entitles and obligates the transferor to repurchase the financial assets before maturity and all of the conditions already described in FASB ASC Topic 860, Transfers and Servicing , are met. This revised guidance is applicable to new transactions and transactions that are modified on or after the first interim or annual period beginning after December 15, 2011.  First Financial does not anticipate this update will have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

In May 2011, the FASB issued an update (ASU No. 2011-04, Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Amendments to Achieve Common Fair Value Measurement and Disclosure Requirements in U.S. GAAP and IFRSs ), which expands the disclosure requirements around fair value measurements categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy and requires disclosure of the level in the fair value hierarchy of items that are not measured at fair value but whose fair value must be disclosed.  It also clarifies and expands upon existing requirements for fair value measurements of financial assets and liabilities as well as instruments classified in shareholders' equity.  The guidance is effective for interim and annual financial periods beginning after December 15, 2011.  First Financial does not anticipate this update will have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

In June 2011, the FASB issued an update (ASU 2011-05, Presentation of Comprehensive Income), which revises the manner in which entities present comprehensive income in their financial statements. This update eliminates the option to present components of other comprehensive income (OCI) as part of the statement of changes in stockholders' equity.  The amendments to the existing standard require that all nonowner changes in stockholders' equity be presented either in a single continuous statement of comprehensive income or in two separate but consecutive statements.  Under either method, adjustments must be displayed for items that are reclassified from OCI to net income, in both net income and OCI.  The amendments to the existing standard do not change the current option for presenting components of OCI gross or net of the effect of income taxes, provided that such tax effects are presented in the statement in which OCI is presented or disclosed in the notes to the financial statements.  Additionally, the standard does not affect the calculation or reporting of earnings per share.  This guidance is effective for interim and annual financial periods beginning after December 15, 2011 and is to be applied retrospectively, with early adoption permitted. First Financial does not anticipate this update will have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

In September 2011, the FASB issued an update (ASU 2011-08, Testing Goodwill for Impairment), to simplify the current two-step goodwill impairment test in FASB ASC Topic 350-20, Intangibles - Goodwill and Other: Goodwill. This update permits entities to first perform a qualitative assessment to determine whether it is more likely than not (a likelihood of more than 50 percent) that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. If the entity determines that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, it would then perform the first step of the goodwill impairment test; otherwise, no further impairment test would be required. This guidance is effective for interim and annual goodwill impairment tests performed for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2011, with early adoption permitted. First Financial does not anticipate this update will have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

NOTE 3:  BUSINESS COMBINATIONS

On September 23, 2011, First Financial Bank completed the purchase of 16 Ohio banking centers from Liberty Savings Bank, FSB (Liberty) including $126.5 million of performing loans and $341.9 million of deposits at their estimated fair values. First Financial also acquired $3.8 million of fixed assets at estimated fair value and paid Liberty a $22.4 million net deposit premium. Assets acquired in this transaction are not subject to a loss share agreement. The Liberty banking center acquisition was accounted for in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 805, Business Combinations. Fair values are preliminary and subject to refinement for up to one year after the closing date of the acquisition (the measurement period) as information relative to closing date fair values becomes available. First Financial recorded $17.1 million of goodwill during the quarter related to the acquisition.

Loans acquired in conjunction with the Liberty banking center acquisition were evaluated for impairment in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 310-30, Loans and Debt Securities Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality. First Financial determined that the acquired loans were not impaired and is accounting for them under FASB ASC Topic 310-20, Receivables-Nonrefundable Fees and Costs.

In August 2011, First Financial signed a purchase and assumption agreement to acquire 22 Indiana-based retail banking branches from Flagstar Bank, FSB (Flagstar) and assume approximately $530 million of deposits associated with these branches. The Flagstar transaction is expected to close during the fourth quarter 2011. While both companies have received regulatory approval, the transaction remains subject to other customary closing conditions.

On July 31, 2009, First Financial Bank, N.A. (First Financial Bank), a wholly owned subsidiary of First Financial Bancorp, entered into a purchase and assumption agreement (Peoples Agreement) with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), as receiver, pursuant to which First Financial acquired certain assets and assumed substantially all of the deposits and certain liabilities of Peoples Community Bank (Peoples).

On September 18, 2009, First Financial Bank entered into separate purchase and assumption agreements (Irwin Agreements) with the FDIC, as receiver, pursuant to which First Financial acquired certain assets and assumed substantially all of the deposits and certain liabilities of Irwin Union Bank and Trust Company (Irwin Union Bank) and Irwin Union Bank, F.S.B. (Irwin FSB). Irwin Union Bank and Irwin FSB are collectively referred to herein as Irwin.

In connection with both the Peoples and Irwin acquisitions, First Financial Bank entered into loss sharing agreements with the FDIC that covers single family residential mortgage loans, commercial real estate and commercial and industrial loans, and other real estate acquired through foreclosure (OREO), all of which are referred to collectively as covered assets.

NOTE 4:  GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS

Goodwill
Assets and liabilities of acquired entities are recorded at their estimated fair values as of the acquisition date. First Financial recorded $17.1 million of goodwill during the third quarter of 2011 related to the Liberty banking center acquisition.

Goodwill is not amortized, but is measured for impairment on an annual basis as of October 1 of each year or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the fair value of a reporting unit may be below its carrying value.  First Financial performed its annual impairment test as of October 1, 2010, and no impairment was indicated.  As of September 30, 2011, no events or changes in circumstances indicated that the fair value of a reporting unit was below its carrying value.

Other intangible assets
Other intangible assets consist of mortgage servicing rights and core deposit intangibles.  Mortgage servicing rights are carried at their estimated fair value.

Core deposit intangibles are recorded at their estimated fair value as of acquisition and are then amortized on an accelerated basis over their estimated useful lives. First Financial recorded $4.0 million of core deposit intangibles associated with the Liberty banking center acquisition during the third quarter of 2011. Core deposit intangibles have an estimated weighted average remaining life of 8.67 years.

NOTE 5:  COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

In the normal course of business, First Financial offers a variety of financial instruments with off-balance-sheet risk to its clients to aid them in meeting their requirements for liquidity and credit enhancement. These financial instruments include standby letters of credit and outstanding commitments to extend credit.  U.S. generally accepted accounting principles do not require these financial instruments to be recorded in the Consolidated Balance Sheets, Consolidated Statements of Income, Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity, and Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.  Following is a discussion of these transactions.

First Financial’s exposure to credit loss, in the event of nonperformance by the other party to the financial instrument for standby letters of credit, and outstanding commitments to extend credit, is represented by the contractual amounts of those instruments.  First Financial uses the same credit policies in making commitments and conditional obligations as it does for on-balance-sheet instruments.

Letters of credit – These transactions are conditional commitments issued by First Financial to guarantee the performance of a client to a third party.  First Financial’s portfolio of standby letters of credit consists primarily of performance assurances made on behalf of clients who have a contractual commitment to produce or deliver goods or services.  The risk to First Financial arises from its obligation to make payment in the event of the clients’ contractual default to produce the contracted good or service to a third party.  First Financial has issued letters of credit (including standby letters of credit) aggregating $22.1 million and $17.6 million at September 30, 2011, and December 31, 2010, respectively. Management conducts regular reviews of these instruments on an individual client basis.

Loan commitments – Commitments to extend credit are agreements to lend to a client as long as there is no violation of any condition established in the commitment.  Commitments generally have fixed expiration dates or other termination clauses and may require payment of a fee.  Since many of the commitments are expected to expire without being drawn upon, the total commitment amounts do not necessarily represent future cash requirements.  First Financial evaluates each client’s creditworthiness on an individual basis.  The amount of collateral obtained, if deemed necessary by First Financial upon extension of credit, is based on management’s credit evaluation of the counterparty.  The collateral held varies, but may include securities, real estate, inventory, plant, or equipment.  First Financial had commitments outstanding to extend credit totaling $1.2 billion at September 30, 2011, and $1.0 billion at December 31, 2010.

Contingencies/Litigation – We and our subsidiaries are from time to time engaged in various matters of litigation, other assertions of improper or fraudulent loan practices or lending violations, and other matters, and we have a number of unresolved claims pending. In addition, as part of the ordinary course of business, we and our subsidiaries are parties to litigation involving claims to the ownership of funds in particular accounts, the collection of delinquent accounts, challenges to security interests in collateral, and foreclosure interests, that is incidental to our regular business activities. While the ultimate liability with respect to these other litigation matters and claims cannot be determined at this time, we believe that damages, if any, and other amounts relating to pending matters are not likely to be material to our consolidated financial position or results of operations. Reserves are established for these various matters of litigation, when appropriate under FASB ASC Topic 450, Contingencies, based in part upon the advice of legal counsel.

NOTE 6:  INVESTMENTS

The following is a summary of held-to-maturity and available-for-sale investment securities as of September 30, 2011.

Held-to-Maturity
Available-for-Sale
(Dollars in thousands)
Amortized
Cost
Unrealized
Gains
Unrealized
Losses
Market
Value
Amortized
Cost
Unrealized
Gains
Unrealized
Losses
Market
Value
Securities of U.S. government agencies and corporations
$
0

$
0

$
0

$
0

$
5,027

$
85

$
0

$
5,112

Mortgage-backed securities
95

3

0

98

1,065,948

27,503

(267
)
1,093,184

Obligations of state and other political subdivisions
2,629

226

0

2,855

11,509

154

(26
)
11,637

Other securities
0

0

0

0

10,164

307

(225
)
10,246

Total
$
2,724

$
229

$
0

$
2,953

$
1,092,648

$
28,049

$
(518
)
$
1,120,179


The following is a summary of held-to-maturity and available-for-sale investment securities as of December 31, 2010.

Held-to-Maturity
Available-for-Sale
Amortized
Unrealized
Unrealized
Market
Amortized
Unrealized
Unrealized
Market
(Dollars in thousands)
Cost
Gains
Losses
Value
Cost
Gains
Losses
Value
U.S. Treasuries
$
13,959

$
390

$
(18
)
$
14,331

$
0

$
0

$
0

$
0

Securities of U.S. government agencies and corporations
0

0

0

0

105,028

957

0

105,985

Mortgage-backed securities
118

4

0

122

775,867

15,513

(2,630
)
788,750

Obligations of state and other political subdivisions
3,329

284

0

3,613

13,708

207

(91
)
13,824

Other securities
0

0

0

0

9,943

614

(6
)
10,551

Total
$
17,406

$
678

$
(18
)
$
18,066

$
904,546

$
17,291

$
(2,727
)
$
919,110


The following is a summary of investment securities by estimated maturity as of September 30, 2011.

Held-to-Maturity
Available-for-Sale
Amortized
Cost
Market
Value
Amortized
Cost
Market
Value
Due in one year or less
$
292

$
296

$
24,616

$
24,889

Due after one year through five years
1,370

1,442

933,066

955,663

Due after five years through ten years
211

245

82,340

85,706

Due after ten years
851

970

52,626

53,921

Total
$
2,724

$
2,953

$
1,092,648

$
1,120,179


The following tables present the age of gross unrealized losses and associated fair value by investment category.

September 30, 2011
Less than 12 Months
12 Months or More
Total
(Dollars in thousands)
Fair
Value
Unrealized
Loss
Fair
Value
Unrealized
Loss
Fair
Value
Unrealized
Loss
Mortgage-backed securities
$
114,524

$
(204
)
$
1,340

$
(63
)
$
115,864

$
(267
)
Obligations of state and other political subdivisions
0

0

2,257

(26
)
2,257

(26
)
Other securities
0

0

2,146

(225
)
2,146

(225
)
Total
$
114,524

$
(204
)
$
5,743

$
(314
)
$
120,267

$
(518
)

December 31, 2010
Less than 12 Months
12 Months or More
Total
Fair
Unrealized
Fair
Unrealized
Fair
Unrealized
(Dollars in thousands)
Value
Loss
Value
Loss
Value
Loss
U.S. Treasuries
$
2,334

$
(18
)
$
0

$
0

$
2,334

$
(18
)
Mortgage-backed securities
280,445

(2,538
)
1,336

(92
)
281,781

(2,630
)
Obligations of state and other political subdivisions
0

0

2,194

(91
)
2,194

(91
)
Other securities
2,217

(6
)
17

0

2,234

(6
)
Total
$
284,996

$
(2,562
)
$
3,547

$
(183
)
$
288,543

$
(2,745
)

Unrealized losses on debt securities are generally due to higher current market yields relative to the yields of the debt securities at their amortized cost.  Unrealized losses due to credit risk associated with the underlying collateral of the debt security, if any, are not material.  All securities with unrealized losses are reviewed quarterly to determine if any impairment is considered other than temporary, requiring a write-down to fair market value. First Financial considers the percentage loss on a security, duration of the loss, average life or duration of the security, credit rating of the security, as well as payment performance and the Company’s intent and ability to hold the security to maturity when determining whether any impairment is other than temporary. At this time First Financial does not intend to sell, and it is not more likely than not that the Company will be required to sell debt security issues temporarily impaired prior to maturity or recovery of book value. First Financial had no other than temporary impairment charges for the nine months ended September 30, 2011.

For further detail on the fair value of investment securities, see Note 15 – Fair Value Disclosures.

NOTE 7:  DERIVATIVES

The use of derivative instruments allows First Financial to meet the needs of its clients while managing the interest-rate risk associated with certain transactions.  First Financial’s board of directors has authorized the use of certain derivative products, including interest rate caps, floors, and swaps.  First Financial does not use derivatives for speculative purposes and currently does not have any derivatives that are not designated as hedges.

The following table summarizes the derivative financial instruments utilized by First Financial by the nature of the underlying asset or liability:
Fair Value Hedges
(Dollars in thousands)
September 30, 2011
December 31, 2010
Instruments associated with loans:
Total notional value
$
737,922

$
578,959


While authorized to use a variety of derivative products, First Financial primarily utilizes interest rate swaps as a means to offer borrowers credit-based products that meet their needs and may from time to time utilize interest rate swaps to manage the macro interest rate risk profile of the Company. These agreements establish the basis on which interest rate payments are exchanged with counterparties and are referred to as the notional amount. As only interest rate payments are exchanged, cash requirements and credit risk are significantly less than the notional amount and the Company’s credit risk exposure is limited to the market value of the instrument.

First Financial manages this market value credit risk through counterparty credit policies. These policies require the Company to maintain a total derivative notional position of less than 35% of assets, total credit exposure of less than 3% of capital, and no single counterparty credit risk exposure greater than $20.0 million . The Company is currently well below all single counterparty and portfolio limits. At September 30, 2011, the Company had a total counterparty notional amount outstanding of approximately $377.8 million , spread among seven counterparties, with an outstanding liability from these contracts of $27.7 million .

In connection with its use of derivative instruments, First Financial from time to time is required to post cash collateral with its counterparties to offset its market position.  Derivative collateral balances were $25.1 million , and $12.5 million at September 30, 2011, and December 31, 2010, respectively. First Financial classifies the derivative cash collateral outstanding with its counterparties as an adjustment to the fair value of the derivative contracts within accrued interest and other liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

The following table summarizes the derivative financial instruments utilized by First Financial and their balances:

September 30, 2011
December 31, 2010
Estimated Fair Value
Estimated Fair Value
(Dollars in thousands)
Balance
Sheet Location
Notional
Amount
Gain
Loss
Notional
Amount
Gain
Loss
Fair Value Hedges
Pay fixed interest rate swaps with counterparty
Accrued interest and other liabilities
$
17,688

$
0

$
(2,407
)
$
21,301

$
0

$
(2,302
)
Matched interest rate swaps with borrower
Accrued interest and other assets
360,117

24,733

0

278,829

14,843

(131
)
Matched interest rate swaps with counterparty
Accrued interest and other liabilities
360,117

0

(26,086
)
278,829

131

(15,502
)
Total
$
737,922

$
24,733

$
(28,493
)
$
578,959

$
14,974

$
(17,935
)

The following table details the derivative financial instruments, the average remaining maturities and the weighted-average interest rates being paid and received by First Financial at September 30, 2011:

Weighted-Average Rate
(Dollars in thousands)
Notional
Value
Average
Maturity
(years)
Fair
Value
Receive
Pay
Asset conversion swaps
Pay fixed interest rate swaps with counterparty
$
17,688

4.6
$
(2,407
)
2.18
%
6.73
%
Receive fixed, matched interest rate swaps with borrower
360,117

4.4
24,733

5.74
%
2.99
%
Pay fixed, matched interest rate swaps with counterparty
360,117

4.4
(26,086
)
2.99
%
5.74
%
Total asset conversion swaps
$
737,922

4.4
$
(3,760
)
4.31
%
4.42
%
Total swap portfolio
$
737,922

4.4
$
(3,760
)
4.31
%
4.42
%

The accounting for changes in the fair value of derivatives depends on the intended use of the derivative and the resulting designation.  Derivatives used to hedge the exposure to changes in the fair value of an asset, liability, or firm commitment attributable to a particular risk, such as interest rate risk, are considered fair value hedges.  Derivatives used to hedge the exposure to variability in expected future cash flows, or other types of forecasted transactions, are considered cash flow hedges.

Fair Value Hedges - First Financial utilizes interest rate swaps as a means to offer commercial borrowers products that meet their needs, but are also designed to achieve First Financial’s desired interest rate risk profile at the time.  The fair value hedge agreements generally involve the net receipt by First Financial of floating-rate amounts in exchange for net payments by First Financial, through its loan clients, of fixed-rate amounts over the life of the agreements without an exchange of the underlying principal or notional amount.  This results in First Financial’s loan customers receiving fixed rate funding, while providing First Financial with a floating rate asset.  The net interest receivable or payable on the interest rate swaps is accrued and recognized as an adjustment to the interest income or interest expense of the hedged item.  The fair value of the interest rate swaps is included within accrued interest and other assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.  The corresponding fair-value adjustment is also included on the Consolidated Balance Sheets in the carrying value of the hedged item.  Derivative gains and losses not considered effective in hedging the change in fair value of the hedged item are recognized immediately in income.

The following table details the location and amounts recognized for fair value hedges:

Increase (decrease) to Interest Income
(Dollars in thousands)
Three Months Ended
Nine Months Ended
Derivatives in fair value hedging relationships
Location of change in fair value derivative
September 30,
2011
September 30,
2010
September 30,
2011
September 30,
2010
Interest Rate Contracts
Loans
Interest Income - Loans
$
(221
)
$
(249
)
$
(692
)
$
(759
)
Total
$
(221
)
$
(249
)
$
(692
)
$
(759
)

Cash Flow Hedges – First Financial may utilize interest rate swaps designated as cash flow hedges to manage the variability of cash flows, primarily net interest income, attributable to changes in interest rates.  The net interest receivable or payable on an interest rate swap designated as a cash flow hedge is accrued and recognized as an adjustment to interest income or interest expense.  The fair value of the interest rate swaps is included within accrued interest and other assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.  Changes in the fair value of the interest rate swaps are included in accumulated comprehensive income (loss).  Derivative gains and losses not considered effective in hedging the cash flows related to the underlying loans, if any, would be recognized immediately in income.

Effective March 30, 2009, First Financial executed a cash flow hedge utilizing an interest rate swap to hedge against interest rate volatility on $20.0 million of floating rate trust preferred securities based on the London Inter-Bank Offered Rate (LIBOR).  The interest rate swap involved the receipt by First Financial of variable-rate interest amounts in exchange for fixed-rate interest payments by First Financial for a period of 10 years. This interest rate swap effectively fixed the rate of interest on the floating rate trust preferred securities at 6.20% for the 10 year life of the swap.

First Financial terminated the $20.0 million trust preferred interest rate swap during the fourth quarter of 2010 in the course of its normal interest rate risk and balance sheet management activities.  Terminating the trust preferred interest rate swap resulted in a $0.6 million pre-tax loss that was included in accumulated comprehensive income (loss) on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Due to the early redemption of the trust preferred securities, the remaining balance of the unrecognized loss of $0.6 million was recognized in noninterest expense in the second quarter of 2011. First Financial has no derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges at September 30, 2011.

Amount of gain or (loss)
recognized in OCI on
derivatives
(effective portion)
Location of gain or (loss)
reclassified from
accumulated OCI into
earnings (effective
portion)
Amount of gain or (loss)
reclassified from accumulated
OCI into earnings  (effective portion)
(Dollars in thousands)
3 months ended
9 months ended
3 months ended
9 months ended
Derivatives in cash flow
hedging relationships
September 30, 2010
September 30, 2010
Interest Rate Contracts
Other long-term debt
$
(471
)
$
(1,470
)
Interest Expense - Other long-term debt
$
(131
)
$
(417
)
Total
$
(471
)
$
(1,470
)
Total
$
(131
)
$
(417
)


NOTE 8:  LONG-TERM DEBT

Long-term debt on the Consolidated Balance Sheets consists of FHLB long-term advances and repurchase agreements utilizing investment securities pledged as collateral.  These instruments are primarily utilized to reduce overnight liquidity risk and to mitigate interest rate sensitivity on the balance sheet.  First Financial has $65.0 million in repurchase agreements which have remaining maturities of between one and four years and a weighted average rate of 3.50% .  Securities pledged as collateral in conjunction with the repurchase agreements are included within Investment securities available-for-sale on the Consolidated

2



Balance Sheets.  First Financial assumed additional FHLB long-term advances in the Peoples and Irwin acquisitions of $63.5 million and $216.3 million , respectively.  During the third quarter of 2010, approximately $232.0 million of these advances were prepaid.  As of September 30, 2011, the remaining FHLB long-term advances assumed in the two transactions totaled $1.8 million , had remaining maturities of less than eight years and a weighted average effective yield of 3.80% .

The following is a summary of long-term debt:
September 30, 2011
(Dollars in thousands)
Amount
Average Rate
Federal Home Loan Bank
$
11,875

3.80
%
National Market Repurchase Agreement
65,000

3.50
%
Total long-term debt
$
76,875

3.55
%

NOTE 9:  OTHER LONG-TERM DEBT

Other long-term debt on the Consolidated Balance Sheets previously consisted of junior subordinated debentures owed to unconsolidated subsidiary trusts.  Capital securities were issued in the third quarter of 2003 by a statutory business trust, First Financial (OH) Statutory Trust II (Trust II). These debentures were first eligible for early redemption by First Financial in September of 2008 and were fully redeemed on June 30, 2011 .

The debentures qualified as Tier I capital under Federal Reserve Board guidelines, but had been limited to 25% of qualifying Tier I capital. After the early redemption, the Company has the capacity to issue approximately $167.3 million in additional qualifying debentures under these guidelines.

NOTE 10:  LOANS (excluding covered loans)

Commercial loans are made to all types of businesses for a variety of purposes. First Financial works with businesses to meet their shorter term working capital needs while also providing long-term financing for their business plans. Credit risk is managed through standardized loan policies, established and authorized credit limits, centralized portfolio management and the diversification of market area and industries. The overall strength of the borrower is evaluated through the credit underwriting process and includes a variety of analytical activities including the review of historical and projected cash flows, historical financial performance, financial strength of the principals and guarantors, and collateral values, where applicable.  First Financial also offers lease and equipment financing through a wholly-owned subsidiary of First Financial Bank, First Financial Equipment Finance LLC (First Equipment Finance), primarily in its principal markets. First Equipment Finance delivers financing solutions to small and mid-size companies in various industries with significant diversity in the types of underlying equipment.

Additionally, First Financial's commercial lending activities include equipment and leasehold improvement financing for franchisees, principally quick service and casual dining restaurants, through its wholly-owned subsidiary First Franchise Capital Corporation (First Franchise). The underwriting of these loans incorporates basic credit proficiencies combined with knowledge of select franchise concepts to measure the creditworthiness of proposed multi-unit borrowers. The focus is on a limited number of concepts that have sound economics, low closure rates, and brand awareness within specified local, regional, or national markets. Loan terms for equipment are generally up to 84 months fully amortizing and up to 180 months on real estate.

Commercial real estate loans are secured by a mortgage lien on the real property. The credit underwriting for both owner-occupied and investor income producing real estate loans includes detailed market analysis, historical and projected cash flow analysis, appropriate equity margins, assessment of lessees and lessors, type of real estate and other analysis. Risk of loss is managed by adherence to standard loan policies that establish certain levels of performance prior to the extension of a loan to the borrower. Market diversification within First Financial’s service area, as well as a diversification by industry, are other means by which the risk of loss is managed by First Financial.

The majority of residential real estate loans originated by the Bank conforms to secondary market underwriting standards and is sold within a short timeframe to unaffiliated third parties, including the future servicing rights to the loans. The credit underwriting standards adhere to a certain level of documentation, verifications, valuation, and overall credit performance of the borrower.


3



Consumer loans are primarily loans made to individuals. Types of loans include new and used vehicle loans, second mortgages on residential real estate, and unsecured loans. Risk elements in the consumer loan portfolio are primarily focused on the borrower’s cash flow and credit history, key indicators of the ability to repay. A certain level of security is provided through liens on automobile titles and second mortgage liens, where applicable. Economic conditions that affect consumers in First Financial’s markets have a direct impact on the credit quality of these loans. Higher levels of unemployment, lower levels of income growth and weaker economic growth are factors that may adversely impact consumer loan credit quality.
Home equity lines of credit consist mainly of revolving lines of credit secured by residential real estate. Home equity lines of credit are generally governed by the same lending policies and subject to the same credit risk as described previously for residential real estate loans.

Delinquency
Loans are considered past due or delinquent when the contractual principal or interest due in accordance with the terms of the loan agreement or any portion thereof remains unpaid after the due date of the scheduled payment.

Loan delinquency, including nonaccrual loans, was as follows:

As of September 30, 2011
30 – 59
Days
past due
60 – 89
Days
past due
> 90 days
past due
Total
Past
due
Current
Total
> 90 days
past due
and still
accruing
Loans
Commercial
$
2,019

$
852

$
10,436

$
13,307

$
809,245

$
822,552

$
0

Real estate - construction
4,000

6,254

12,197

22,451

114,200

136,651

0

Real estate - commercial
4,316

1,569

15,731

21,616

1,180,419

1,202,035

0

Real estate - residential
7,827

1,362

6,757

15,946

284,219

300,165

0

Installment
275

86

207

568

69,466

70,034

0

Home equity
1,112

258

1,765

3,135

359,784

362,919

0

All other
265

163

235

663

42,642

43,305

235

Total
$
19,814

$
10,544

$
47,328

$
77,686

$
2,859,975

$
2,937,661

$
235


As of December 31, 2010
30 - 59
days
past due
60 - 89
days
past due
> 90 days
past due
Total
past
due
Current
Total
> 90 days
past due and still accruing
Loans
Commercial
$
2,241

$
1,573

$
11,684

$
15,498

$
784,755

$
800,253

$
0

Real estate - construction
1,754

3,782

8,973

14,509

149,034

163,543

0

Real estate - commercial
3,202

3,979

16,435

23,616

1,116,315

1,139,931

0

Real estate - residential
7,671

1,930

5,127

14,728

254,445

269,173

0

Installment
456

48

120

624

69,087

69,711

0

Home equity
1,260

392

2,166

3,818

337,492

341,310

0

All other
366

176

370

912

31,260

32,172

370

Total
$
16,950

$
11,880

$
44,875

$
73,705

$
2,742,388

$
2,816,093

$
370


Nonaccrual
Loans are classified as nonaccrual when, in the opinion of management, collection of principal or interest is doubtful or when principal or interest payments are 90 days or more past due. Generally, loans are placed in nonaccrual status due to the continued failure to adhere to contractual payment terms by the borrower coupled with other pertinent factors, such as, insufficient collateral value. The accrual of interest income is discontinued and previously accrued, but unpaid interest is reversed when a loan is placed in nonaccrual status. Any payments received while a loan is in nonaccrual status are applied as a

4



reduction to the carrying value of the loan. A loan may be placed back on accrual status if all contractual payments have been received and collection of future principal and interest payments is no longer doubtful.

Troubled Debt Restructurings
A loan modification is considered a troubled debt restructuring (TDR), also referred to as a restructured loan, when two conditions are met: 1) the borrower is experiencing financial difficulty and 2) concessions are made by the Company that would not otherwise be considered for a borrower with similar credit characteristics. The most common types of modifications include interest rate reductions, maturity extensions, and modifications to principal amortization including interest only structures. Modified terms are dependent upon the financial position and needs of the individual borrower. If the modification agreement is violated, the loan is handled by the Company’s credit administration group for resolution, which may result in foreclosure.

Restructured loans are generally classified as nonaccrual for a minimum period of six months. Restructured loans qualify for return to accrual status once they have demonstrated performance with the restructured terms of the loan agreement.

First Financial had 79 restructured loans totaling approximately $17.3 million at September 30, 2011. $4.7 million of restructured loans were on accrual status and $12.6 million were classified as nonaccrual at September 30, 2011. At September 30, 2011, the allowance for loan and lease losses included reserves of $1.7 million related to TDRs. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2011, First Financial charged off $1.5 million , and $1.7 million , respectively, for the portion of restructured loans determined to be uncollectible.

At September 30, 2011, approximately $1.6 million of the accruing TDRs have been performing in accordance with the restructured terms for more than one year.

The following table provides information on loans restructured during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2011.

September 30, 2011
Three Months Ended
Nine Months Ended
Total TDRs
Total TDRs
(Dollars in thousands)
Number of Loans
Pre-Modification Loan Balance
Period End Balance
Number of Loans
Pre-Modification Loan Balance
Period End Balance
Commercial
1
$44
$44
7
$388
$354
Real estate - construction
0
0
0
0
0
0
Real estate - commercial
2
467
206
10
1,431
1,016
Real estate - residential
3
242
245
13
1,295
1,301
Installment
0
0
0
2
114
111
Home equity
0
0
0
1
101
101
Total
6
$753
$495
33

$3,329
$2,883
The following table provides information on how restructured loans were modified during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2011.

September 30, 2011 (2)
(Dollars in thousands)
Three Months Ended
Nine Months Ended
Extended Maturities
$249
$1,445
Adjusted Interest Rates
114
271
Combination of Rate and Maturity Changes
132
1,056
Other (1)
0
111
Total
$495
$2,883
__________________________________________
(1) Other includes covenant modifications, forbearance and other concessions or combination of concessions that do not consist

5



of interest rate adjustments and maturity extensions.
(2) Balances are as of period end.

First Financial considers repayment performance as an indication of the effectiveness of the Company's loan modifications. First Financial considers a borrower that is 90 days or more past due on any principal or interest payments for a restructured loan, or who prematurely terminates a restructured loan agreement without paying off the contractual principal balance (for example, in a deed-in-lieu arrangement), to be in payment default of the terms of the restructured loan.

The following tables provide information on restructured loans for which there was a payment default during the period that occurred within twelve months of the loan modification.

September 30, 2011
Three Months Ended
Nine Months Ended
(Dollars in thousands)
Number of Loans
Period End Balance
Number of Loans
Period End Balance
Commercial
0
$0
0
$0
Real estate - construction
0
0
0
0
Real estate - commercial
1
112
2
1,031
Real estate - residential
2
255
2
255
Installment
0
0
0
0
Home equity
0
0
0
0
Total
3
$367
4

$1,286

First Financial individually reviews all restructured commercial loan relationships greater than $250,000 , and all restructured consumer loan relationships greater than $100,000 , to determine if a specific allowance based on the borrower’s overall financial condition, resources and payment record, support from guarantors, and the realizable value of any collateral is necessary. Specific allowances are based on discounted cash flows using the loan's initial effective interest rate or the fair value of the collateral for certain collateral dependent loans.

Impaired Loans
Loans placed in nonaccrual status and restructured loans are considered impaired. The following table provides information on nonaccrual, restructured, and impaired loans:

(Dollars in thousands)
September 30, 2011
December 31,
2010
Principal balance
Nonaccrual loans
Commercial
$
10,792

$
13,729

Real estate-construction
13,844

12,921

Real estate-commercial
26,408

28,342

Real estate-residential
5,507

4,607

Installment
322

150

Home equity
2,277

2,553

Total nonaccrual loans
59,150

62,302

Restructured loans
Accruing
4,712

3,508

Nonaccrual
12,571

14,105

Total restructured loans
17,283

17,613

Total impaired loans
$
76,433

$
79,915



6



September 30, 2011
(Dollars in thousands)
Three Months Ended
Nine months ended
Interest income effect
Gross amount of interest that would have been recorded under original terms
$
1,390

$
4,103

Interest included in income
Nonaccrual loans
108

358

Restructured loans
49

215

Total interest included in income
157

573

Net impact on interest income
$
1,233

$
3,530


In the commercial portfolio, management reviews all impaired loan relationships in excess of $250,000 to determine if a specific allowance based on the borrower’s overall financial condition, resources and payment record, support from guarantors, and the realizable value of any collateral is necessary.

Specific allowances are based on discounted cash flows using the loan's initial effective interest rate or the fair value of the collateral for certain collateral dependent loans. Interest income for impaired loans is recorded on a cash basis during the period the loan is considered impaired after recovery of principal is reasonably assured.


7



First Financial's investment in impaired loans was as follows:

As of September 30, 2011
(Dollars in thousands)
Current Balance
Contractual
Principal
Balance
Related
Allowance
Average
Current
Balance
YTD Interest
Income
Recognized
Quarterly Interest
Income
Recognized
Loans with no related allowance recorded:
Commercial
$
6,758

$
8,197

$
0

$
7,583

$
44

$
17

Real estate - construction
5,515

8,130

0

5,500

2

1

Real estate - commercial
19,268

25,985

0

19,133

205

73

Real estate - residential
8,464

9,152

0

6,401

51

14

Installment
433

468

0

323

4

2

Home equity
2,277

2,372

0

2,403

7

3

Loans with an allowance recorded:
Commercial
4,388

6,148

2,820

3,571

0

0

Real estate - construction
14,576

18,110

4,615

14,389

88

0

Real estate - commercial
12,288

18,371

3,809

14,475

143

38

Real estate - residential
2,365

2,371

270

3,864

26

9

Installment
0

0

0

19

1

0

Home equity
101

101

2

76

2

0

Total:





Commercial
11,146

14,345

2,820

11,154

44

17

Real estate - construction
20,091

26,240

4,615

19,889

90

1

Real estate - commercial
31,556

44,356

3,809

33,608

348

111

Real estate - residential
10,829

11,523

270

10,265

77

23

Installment
433

468

0

342

5

2

Home equity
2,378

2,473

2

2,479

9

3

Total
$
76,433

$
99,405

$
11,516

$
77,737

$
573

$
157



8



As of December 31, 2010
(Dollars in thousands)
Current
Balance
Contractual
Principal
Balance
Related
Allowance
Average
Current
Balance
Interest
Income
Recognized
Loans with no related allowance recorded:
Commercial
$
9,375

$
12,008

$
0

$
7,432

$
228

Real estate - construction
4,925

8,458

0

9,935

98

Real estate - commercial
17,431

21,660

0

14,113

804

Real estate - residential
5,854

6,447

0

6,611

84

Installment
150

179

0

336

6

Home equity
2,553

3,345

0

2,188

74

Loans with an allowance recorded:

Commercial
4,354

6,090

2,017

10,423

77

Real estate - construction
14,407

18,261

3,716

11,063

378

Real estate - commercial
16,693

19,799

4,347

13,391

392

Real estate - residential
4,173

4,264

336

2,727

152

Total:





Commercial
13,729

18,098

2,017

17,855

305

Real estate - construction
19,332

26,719

3,716

20,998

476

Real estate - commercial
34,124

41,459

4,347

27,504

1,196

Real estate - residential
10,027

10,711

336

9,338

236

Installment
150

179

0

336

6

Home equity
2,553

3,345

0

2,188

74

Total
$
79,915

$
100,511

$
10,416

$
78,219

$
2,293


Credit Quality
To facilitate the monitoring of credit quality for commercial loans, and for purposes of determining an appropriate allowance for loan and lease losses, First Financial utilizes the following categories of credit grades:

Pass - Higher quality loans that do not fit any of the other categories described below.

Special Mention - First Financial assigns a Special Mention rating to loans and leases with potential weaknesses that deserve management's close attention. If left uncorrected, these potential weaknesses may result in deterioration of the repayment prospects for the loan or lease or in First Financial's credit position at some future date.

Substandard - First Financial assigns a substandard rating to loans or leases that are inadequately protected by the current sound worth and paying capacity of the borrower or of the collateral pledged, if any. Substandard loans and leases have well-defined weaknesses that jeopardize repayment of the debt. Substandard loans and leases are characterized by the distinct possibility that the Company will sustain some loss if the deficiencies are not addressed.

Doubtful - First Financial assigns a doubtful rating to loans and leases with all the attributes of a substandard rating with the added characteristic that the weaknesses make collection or liquidation in full, on the basis of currently existing facts, conditions, and values, highly questionable and improbable. The possibility of loss is extremely high, but because of certain important and reasonably specific pending factors that may work to the advantage and strengthening of the credit quality of the loan or lease, its classification as an estimated loss is deferred until its more exact status may be determined. Pending factors include proposed merger, acquisition, or liquidation procedures, capital injection, perfecting liens on additional collateral and refinancing plans.

The credit grades described above, which are derived from standard regulatory rating definitions, are assigned upon initial approval of credit to borrowers and updated periodically thereafter.

9




First Financial considers repayment performance as the best indicator of credit quality for consumer loans. Consumer loans that have principal and interest payments that are past due by ninety days or more are generally classified as nonperforming. Additionally, consumer loans that have been modified in a troubled debt restructuring are classified as nonperforming unless such loans have a sustained repayment performance of six months or greater and are reasonably assured of repayment in accordance with the restructured terms. All other consumer loans and leases are classified as performing.

Commercial and consumer credit exposure by risk attribute was as follows:

As of September 30, 2011
Real Estate
(Dollars in thousands)
Commercial
Construction
Commercial
Pass
$
763,262

$
107,475

$
1,062,751

Special Mention
33,836

1,698

45,032

Substandard
25,263

27,478

94,252

Doubtful
191

0

0

Total
$
822,552

$
136,651

$
1,202,035


(Dollars in thousands)
Real Estate
Residential
Installment
Home Equity
Other
Performing
$
292,695

$
69,601

$
360,642

$
43,305

Nonperforming
7,470

433

2,277

0

Total
$
300,165

$
70,034

$
362,919

$
43,305


As of December 31, 2010
Real Estate
(Dollars in thousands)
Commercial
Construction
Commercial
Pass
$
731,932

$
115,988

$
979,023

Special Mention
36,453

4,829

63,618

Substandard
31,557

42,726

97,290

Doubtful
311

0

0

Total
$
800,253

$
163,543

$
1,139,931


(Dollars in thousands)
Real Estate
Residential
Installment
Home Equity
Other
Performing
$
262,654

$
69,561

$
338,757

$
32,172

Nonperforming
6,519

150

2,553

0

Total
$
269,173

$
69,711

$
341,310

$
32,172



Other real estate owned is comprised of properties acquired by the Bank through the loan foreclosure or repossession process, or any other resolution activity that results in partial or total satisfaction of problem loans. The acquired properties are recorded at the lower of cost, or fair value less estimated costs of disposal (net realizable value), upon acquisition. Losses arising at the time of acquisition of such properties are charged against the allowance for loan and lease losses. Subsequent write-downs in the carrying value of OREO properties are expensed as incurred. Improvements to the properties may be capitalized if the improvements contribute to the overall value of the property, but may not be capitalized in excess of the net realizable value of the property.

During the first three months of 2011, First Financial recognized a reduction in the estimated value of vacant land obtained from a commercial real estate developer of $3.1 million .  This property was subsequently sold during the third quarter of 2011

10



at a $0.3 million gain. Changes in other real estate owned were as follows:

Nine Months Ended
Full Year
(Dollars in thousands)
September 30, 2011
December 31, 2010
Balance at beginning of period
$
17,907

$
4,145

Additions


Commercial
1,328

17,520

Residential
2,609

1,130

Total additions
3,937

18,650

Disposals


Commercial
3,909

2,315

Residential
2,345

1,674

Total disposals
6,254

3,989

Write-downs


Commercial
3,341

727

Residential
246

172

Total write-downs
3,587

899

Balance at end of period
$
12,003

$
17,907


NOTE 11:  LOANS (covered)

All loans acquired in the Peoples and Irwin acquisitions were covered by loss sharing agreements with the FDIC, whereby the FDIC reimburses First Financial for the majority of the losses incurred. Additionally, these loans were recorded at their estimated fair value as of the acquisition date.  Generally the determination of the fair value of the loans resulted in a significant write-down in the value of the loans, which was assigned to an accretable or nonaccretable difference, with the accretable difference to be recognized as interest income over the expected remaining term of the loan.

First Financial evaluates purchased loans for impairment in accordance with the provisions of FASB ASC Topic 310-30, Loans and Debt Securities Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality. The cash flows expected to be collected on purchased loans are estimated based upon the expected remaining life of the underlying loans, which includes the effects of estimated prepayments. Purchased loans are considered impaired if there is evidence of credit deterioration since origination and if it is probable that not all contractually required payments will be collected. First Financial is accounting for the majority of purchased loans under FASB ASC Topic 310-30 except loans with revolving privileges, which are outside the scope of this guidance, and loans for which cash flows could not be estimated, which are accounted for under the cost recovery method. Purchased impaired loans were not classified as nonperforming assets at September 30, 2011 as the loans are considered to be performing under FASB ASC Topic 310-30. Therefore, interest income, through accretion of the difference between the carrying value of the loans and the expected cash flows is being recognized on all purchased loans being accounted for under FASB ASC Topic 310-30.


11



The following table reflects the carrying value of all purchased impaired and nonimpaired covered loans:

September 30, 2011
December 31, 2010
(Dollars in thousands)
Loans
Accounted
For Under
FASB ASC
Topic 310-30
Loans
excluded
from FASB
ASC Topic
310-30 (1)
Total
Purchased
Loans
Loans
Accounted
For Under
FASB ASC
Topic 310-30
Loans
Excluded
From FASB
ASC Topic
310-30 (1)
Total
Purchased
Loans
Commercial
$
209,163

$
14,719

$
223,882

$
295,600

$
38,439

$
334,039

Real estate - construction
25,893

0

25,893

42,743

0

42,743

Real estate - commercial
674,973

12,419

687,392

837,942

17,783

855,725

Real estate - residential
127,753

0

127,753

147,052

0

147,052

Installment
13,022

1,156

14,178

19,560

1,511

21,071

Home equity
4,764

63,133

67,897

7,241

66,454

73,695

Other covered loans
0

4,071

4,071

0

7,168

7,168

Total covered loans
$
1,055,568

$
95,498

$
1,151,066

$
1,350,138

$
131,355

$
1,481,493


(1) Includes loans with revolving privileges which are scoped out of FASB ASC Topic 310-30 and certain loans which First Financial elected to treat under the cost recovery method of accounting.

The outstanding balance of all loans accounted for under FASB ASC Topic 310-30, including contractual principal, interest, fees, and penalties, was $1.7 billion and $2.2 billion as of September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, respectively.

Changes in the carrying amount of accretable yield for loans accounted for under FASB ASC Topic 310-30 were as follows:

Three Months Ended
Nine months ended
September 30,
September 30,
(Dollars in thousands)
2011
2010
2011
2010
Balance at beginning of period (1)
$
421,781

$
514,436

$
509,945

$
623,669

Reclassification from non-accretable difference
17,311

81,067

50,517

81,067

Accretion
(31,168
)
(34,891
)
(97,447
)
(104,096
)
Other net activity (2)
(4,878
)
(11,904
)
(59,969
)
(51,932
)
Balance at end of period
$
403,046

$
548,708

$
403,046

$
548,708

__________________________________________
(1)   Excludes loans with revolving privileges which are scoped out of FASB Topic 310-30 and certain loans which First Financial elected to treat under the cost recovery method.
(2)   Includes the impact of loan repayments and charge-offs.

First Financial reviewed its forecast of expected cash flows for loans accounted for under FASB ASC Topic 310-30 during the third quarter of 2011. The Company recognized improvement in the cash flow expectations related to certain loan pools resulting in the reclassification from nonaccretable to accretable difference during the third quarter of 2011 and 2010 of $17.3 million and $81.1 million , respectively and $50.5 million and $81.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2011 and 2010, respectively. These reclassifications resulted in yield adjustments on these loan pools on a prospective basis. The Company also recognized declines in the cash flow expectations of certain loan pools. Any decline in expected cash flows for a pool of loans is considered impairment and recorded as provision expense, and a related allowance for loan and lease losses on covered loans, on a discounted basis during the period. There were also loan pools that were impaired in prior periods but improved during the third quarter.  This improvement was recorded as a recapture of prior period impairment which partially offset impairment recorded in the third quarter.  For further detail on impairment and provision expense related to loans accounted for under FASB ASC Topic 310-30, see "Covered Loans" under Note 11 - Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses.

Covered loans are considered past due or delinquent when the contractual principal or interest due in accordance with the terms of the loan agreement or any portion thereof remains unpaid after the due date of the scheduled payment.

Covered loan delinquency, excluding loans accounted for under FASB ASC Topic 310-30, was as follows:

As of September 30, 2011
30 - 59
days
past due
60 - 89
days
past due
> 90 days
past due
Total
past
due
Current
Total
> 90 days
past due and
still accruing
Loans
Commercial
$
266

$
251

$
7,347

$
7,864

$
6,855

$
14,719

$
0

Real estate - commercial
579

0

3,754

4,333

8,086

12,419

0

Installment
0

0

0

0

1,156

1,156

0

Home equity
499

163

2,032

2,694

60,439

63,133

0

All other
42

10

77

129

3,942

4,071

68

Total
$
1,386

$
424

$
13,210

$
15,020

$
80,478

$
95,498

$
68


As of December 31, 2010
30 - 59
days
past due
60 - 89
days
past due
> 90 days
past due
Total
past
due
Current
Total
> 90 days
past due and
still accruing
Loans
Commercial
$
880

$
419

$
13,764

$
15,063

$
23,376

$
38,439

$
0

Real estate - commercial
225

62

1,896

2,183

15,600

17,783

0

Installment
0

0

0

0

1,511

1,511

0

Home equity
656

443

1,424

2,523

63,931

66,454

0

All other
87

10

9

106

7,062

7,168

9

Total
$
1,848

$
934

$
17,093

$
19,875

$
111,480

$
131,355

$
9


Nonaccrual
Covered loans accounted for under FASB ASC Topic 310-30 are classified as performing, even though they may be contractually past due, as any nonpayment of contractual principal or interest is considered in the periodic re-estimation of expected cash flows and is included in the resulting recognition of current period covered loan loss provision or prospective yield adjustments.

Similar to uncovered loans, covered loans accounted for outside FASB ASC Topic 310-30 are classified as nonaccrual when, in the opinion of management, collection of principal or interest is doubtful. Generally, these loans are placed in nonaccrual status due to the continued failure to adhere to contractual payment terms by the borrower coupled with other pertinent factors, such as, insufficient collateral value. The accrual of interest income is discontinued when a loan is placed in nonaccrual status and any payments received reduce the carrying value of the loan. A loan may be placed back on accrual status if all contractual payments have been received and collection of future principal and interest payments is no longer doubtful.

Information as to covered nonaccrual loans was as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
September 30, 2011
December 31, 2010
Principal balance
Nonaccrual loans
Commercial
$
8,378

$
16,190

Real estate-commercial
3,782

2,074

Home equity
2,114

1,491

All other
9

0

Total
$
14,283

$
19,755


Three Months
Ended
Nine Months Ended
(Dollars in thousands)
September 30, 2011
September 30, 2011
Interest income effect
Gross amount of interest that would have been recorded under original terms
$
268

$
769

Interest included in income
8

49

Net impact on interest income
$
260

$
720


Impaired Loans
Covered loans placed in nonaccrual status, excluding loans accounted for under FASB ASC Topic 310-30, are considered impaired. First Financial’s investment in covered impaired loans, excluding loans accounted for under FASB ASC Topic 310-30, was as follows:

As of September 30, 2011
(Dollars in thousands)
Recorded
Investment
Unpaid
Principal
Balance
Related
Allowance
Average
Recorded
Investment
YTD Interest
Income
Recognized
Quarterly Interest
Income
Recognized
Loans with no related allowance recorded:
Commercial
$
8,378

$
10,559

$
0

$
10,541

$
43

$
7

Real estate - commercial
3,782

4,547

0

2,583

1

0

Home equity
2,114

3,642

0

1,512

5

1

All other
9

21

0

7

0

0

Total
$
14,283

$
18,769

$
0

$
14,643

$
49

$
8


As of December 31, 2010
(Dollars in thousands)
Recorded
Investment
Unpaid
Principal
Balance
Related
Allowance
Average
Recorded
Investment
YTD Interest
Income
Recognized
Loans with no related allowance recorded:
Commercial
$
16,190

$
18,346

$
0

$
12,324

$
316

Real estate - commercial
2,074

5,412

0

3,910

14

Installment
0

0

0

255

0

Home equity
1,491

3,137

0

1,597

68

Total
$
19,755

$
26,895

$
0

$
18,086

$
398


Credit Quality
For further discussion of First Financial's monitoring of credit quality for commercial and consumer loans, including discussion of the risk attributes noted below, please see Note 10 - Loans.

Covered commercial and consumer credit exposure by risk attribute was as follows:

As of September 30, 2011
Real Estate
(Dollars in thousands)
Commercial
Construction
Commercial
Pass
$
133,799

$
6,116

$
370,605

Special Mention
25,480

4,966

77,308

Substandard
55,429

14,811

235,316

Doubtful
9,174

0

4,163

Total
$
223,882

$
25,893

$
687,392


(Dollars in thousands)
Real Estate
Residential
Installment
Home Equity
Other
Performing
$
127,753

$
14,178

$
65,783

$
4,071

Nonperforming
0

0

2,114

0

Total
$
127,753

$
14,178

$
67,897

$
4,071


As of December 31, 2010
Real Estate
(Dollars in thousands)
Commercial
Construction
Commercial
Pass
$
225,088

$
14,021

$
476,140

Special Mention
35,768

5,743

106,057

Substandard
60,090

22,979

268,651

Doubtful
13,093

0

4,877

Total
$
334,039

$
42,743

$
855,725


(Dollars in thousands)
Real Estate
Residential
Installment
Home
Equity
Other
Performing
$
147,052

$
21,071

$
72,204

$
7,168

Nonperforming
0

0

1,491

0

Total
$
147,052

$
21,071

$
73,695

$
7,168


Covered other real estate owned is comprised of properties acquired by the Bank through the loan foreclosure or, repossession process, or any other resolution activity that results in partial or total satisfaction of problem covered loans. These properties remain subject to loss share agreements whereby the FDIC reimburses First Financial for the majority of any losses incurred. The acquired properties are recorded at the lower of cost, or fair value less estimated costs of disposal (net realizable value), upon acquisition. Losses arising at the time of acquisition of such properties are charged against the allowance for loan and lease losses. Subsequent write-downs in the carrying value of covered OREO properties are expensed as incurred. Improvements to the properties may be capitalized if the improvements contribute to the overall value of the property, but may not be capitalized in excess of the net realizable value of the property.

Changes in covered other real estate owned were as follows:

Nine months ended
Full Year
(Dollars in thousands)
September 30, 2011
December 31, 2010
Balance at beginning of period
$
35,257

$
12,916

Additions


Commercial
38,431

22,237

Residential
2,315

9,827

Total additions
40,746

32,064

Disposals


Commercial
20,940

4,744

Residential
6,992

4,536

Total disposals
27,932

9,280

Write-downs


Commercial
4,138

414

Residential
1,095

29

Total write-downs
5,233

443

Balance at end of period
$
42,838

$
35,257



NOTE 12:  ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN AND LEASE LOSSES

Uncovered Loans

For each reporting period, management maintains the allowance at a level that it considers sufficient to absorb inherent risks in the loan portfolio. Management’s evaluation in establishing the adequacy of the allowance includes evaluation of the loan and lease portfolios, actual past loan and lease loss experience, known and inherent risks in the portfolio, adverse situations that may affect a specific borrower’s ability to repay (including the timing of future payments), the estimated value of any underlying collateral, composition of the loan portfolio, economic conditions, and other pertinent factors, such as periodic internal and external evaluations of delinquent, nonaccrual, and classified loans. The evaluation is inherently subjective as it requires utilizing material estimates, including the amounts and timing of future cash flows expected to be received on impaired loans. The evaluation of these factors is the responsibility of the Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses Committee, which is comprised of senior officers from the risk management, credit administration, finance, and lending areas.

The allowance for commercial loans, including time and demand notes, tax-exempt loans, and commercial real estate loans begins with a process of estimating the probable losses inherent in the portfolio. The loss estimates for these commercial loans are established by category and based on First Financial’s internal system of credit risk ratings and historical loss data.

The estimate of losses inherent in the commercial portfolio may be adjusted for management’s estimate of probable losses on specific exposures dependent upon the values of the underlying collateral and/or the present value of expected future cash flows, as well as trends in delinquent and nonaccrual loans, prevailing economic conditions, changes in lending strategies, and other influencing factors.

In the commercial portfolio, certain loans, typically larger-balance non-homogeneous exposures, may have a specific allowance established based on the borrower’s overall financial condition, resources and payment record, support from guarantors, and the realizable value of any collateral.

The allowance for consumer loans which includes residential real estate, installment, home equity, credit card loans, and overdrafts, is established for each of the categories by estimating losses inherent in that particular category of consumer loans. The estimate of losses is primarily based on historical loss rates for the category, as well as trends in delinquent and nonaccrual loans, prevailing economic conditions, and other influencing factors. Consumer loans are evaluated as an asset type within a category (i.e., residential real estate, installment, etc.), as these loans are smaller with more homogeneous characteristics.

There were no material changes to First Financial’s accounting policies or methodology related to the allowance for loan and lease losses during the third quarter of 2011.

First Financial’s policy is to charge-off loans when, in management’s opinion, full collectibility of principal and interest based upon the contractual terms of the loan is unlikely.

12




Changes in the allowance for loan and lease losses for the previous five quarters are presented in the table that follows:

Three Months Ended
Nine months ended
2011
2010
September 30,
(Dollars in thousands)
Sep. 30,
June 30,
Mar. 31,
Dec. 31,
Sep. 30,
2011
2010
Balance at beginning of period
$
53,671

$
53,645

$
57,235

$
57,249

$
57,811

$
57,235

$
59,311

Provision for loan losses
7,643

5,756

647

9,741

6,287

14,046

23,823

Loans charged off
(7,174
)
(6,232
)
(4,601
)
(10,285
)
(8,124
)
(18,007
)
(28,066
)
Recoveries
397

502

364

530

1,275

1,263

2,181

Balance at end of period
$
54,537

$
53,671

$
53,645

$
57,235

$
57,249

$
54,537

$
57,249

Allowance for loan and lease losses to total ending loans
1.86
%
1.92
%
1.93
%
2.03
%
2.07
%
1.86
%
2.07
%

Year-to-date changes in the allowance for loan and lease losses by loan category were as follows:

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2011
Real Estate
(Dollars in thousands)
Commercial
Construction
Commercial
Residential
Installment
Home Equity
Other
Total
Allowance for loan and lease losses:
Balance at beginning of period
$
10,138

$
8,326

$
14,917

$
8,907

$
1,981

$
10,939

$
2,027

$
57,235

Provision for loan and lease losses
2,309

2,978

8,875

(2,928
)
40

1,732

1,040

14,046

Gross charge-offs
1,694

4,174

7,877

1,078

411

1,695

1,078

18,007

Recoveries
414

27

241

42

267

46

226

1,263

Total net charge-offs
1,280

4,147

7,636

1,036

144

1,649

852

16,744

Ending allowance for loan and lease losses
$
11,167

$
7,157

$
16,156

$
4,943

$
1,877

$
11,022

$
2,215

$
54,537

Ending allowance on loans individually evaluated for impairment
$
2,820

$
4,615

$
3,809

$
270

$
0

$
2

$
0

$
11,516

Ending allowance on loans collectively evaluated for impairment
8,347

2,542

12,347

4,673

1,877

11,020

2,215

43,021

Ending allowance for loan and lease losses
$
11,167

$
7,157

$
16,156

$
4,943

$
1,877

$
11,022

$
2,215

$
54,537

Loans and Leases:








Ending balance of loans individually evaluated for impairment
$
8,626

$
19,936

$
26,251

$
3,483

$
0

$
101

$
0

$
58,397

Ending balance of loans collectively evaluated for impairment
813,926

116,715

1,175,784

296,682

70,034

362,818

43,305

2,879,264

Total loans, excluding covered loans
$
822,552

$
136,651

$
1,202,035

$
300,165

$
70,034

$
362,919

$
43,305

$
2,937,661



13



Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2010
Real Estate
(Dollars in thousands)
Commercial
Construction
Commercial
Residential
Installment
Home Equity
Other
Total
Allowance for loan and lease losses:
Balance at beginning of period
$
18,590

$
8,143

$
15,190

$
5,308

$
2,159

$
8,063

$
1,858

$
59,311

Provision for loan and lease losses
4,252

8,778

6,836

5,268

457

6,183

1,790

33,564

Gross charge-offs
13,324

8,619

8,191

1,693

1,154

3,499

1,871

38,351

Recoveries
620

24

1,082

24

519

192

250

2,711

Total net charge-offs
12,704

8,595

7,109

1,669

635

3,307

1,621

35,640

Ending allowance for loan and lease losses
$
10,138

$
8,326

$
14,917

$
8,907

$
1,981

$
10,939

$
2,027

$
57,235

Ending allowance on loans individually evaluated for impairment
$
2,017

$
3,716

$
4,347

$
336

$
0

$
0

$
0

$
10,416

Ending allowance on loans collectively evaluated for impairment
8,121

4,610

10,570

8,571

1,981

10,939

2,027

46,819

Ending allowance for loan and lease losses
$
10,138

$
8,326

$
14,917

$
8,907

$
1,981

$
10,939

$
2,027

$
57,235

Loans and Leases:








Ending balance of loans individually evaluated for impairment
$
12,175

$
19,294

$
31,260

$
5,420

$
0

$
0

$
0

$
68,149

Ending balance of loans collectively evaluated for impairment
788,078

144,249

1,108,671

263,753

69,711

341,310

32,172

2,747,944

Total loans, excluding covered loans
$
800,253

$
163,543

$
1,139,931

$
269,173

$
69,711

$
341,310

$
32,172

$
2,816,093


Covered Loans
In accordance with the accounting guidance for business combinations, there was no allowance brought forward on any of the acquired loans as any credit deterioration evident in the loans was included in the determination of the fair value of the loans at the acquisition date.

First Financial established an allowance for loan losses associated with covered loans during 2010 based on its valuation procedures performed during the period.  The Company continued to update its valuations related to loans covered under loss share agreements during the third quarter of 2011 and, as a result of impairment in certain loan pools, recognized total provision expense of $7.3 million and realized net charge-offs of $10.2 million during the quarter, resulting in an allowance for covered loan losses of $48.1 million as of September 30, 2011. For the first nine months of 2011, the Company recognized total provision expense of $57.2 million and realized net charge-offs of $25.6 million .  Additionally, the Company recognized loss share expenses of $10.3 million for the first nine months of 2011 and $3.8 million for the third quarter of 2011 primarily related to losses on covered OREO during the period.  The receivable due from the FDIC under loss share agreements related to the covered provision expense and losses on covered OREO of $53.5 million for the first nine months of 2011 and $8.4 million for the third quarter of 2011 was recognized as FDIC loss sharing income and a corresponding increase to the FDIC indemnification asset.

For the third quarter of 2010, First Financial recognized provision expense on covered loans of $20.7 million related to net charge-offs of $10.4 million during the period.  For the first nine months of 2010, the Company recognized provision expense of $49.1 million related to net charge-offs of $37.6 million .  The related receivable due from the FDIC under loss share agreements related to these loans of $17.8 million and $40.5 million for the third quarter and first nine months of 2010, respectively, was recognized as FDIC loss sharing income and a corresponding increase to the FDIC indemnification asset.

Under the applicable accounting guidance, the allowance for loan losses related to covered loans as a result of impairment to loan pools arising from on-going valuation procedures is generally recognized in the current period as provision expense. Improvement in the credit outlook, however, is not recognized immediately but instead is reflected as an adjustment to the yield earned on the related loan pools on a prospective basis once any previously recorded impairment has been recaptured.  The timing inherent in this accounting treatment may result in earnings volatility in future periods.

The allowance for loan and lease losses on covered loans is presented in the table below:


14



September 30, 2011
Real Estate
(Dollars in thousands)
Commercial
Commercial
Residential
Installment
Total
Ending allowance on loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality (ASC 310-30)
$
17,850

$
27,301

$
2,694

$
267

$
48,112

Ending allowance on acquired loans outside the scope of ASC 310-30
0

0

0

0

0

Ending allowance on covered loans
$
17,850

$
27,301

$
2,694

$
267

$
48,112


December 31, 2010
Real Estate
(Dollars in thousands)
Commercial
Commercial
Residential
Installment
Total
Ending allowance on loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality (ASC 310-30)
$
8,787

$
7,213

$
232

$
261

$
16,493

Ending allowance on acquired loans outside the scope of ASC 310-30
0

0

0

0

0

Ending allowance on covered loans
$
8,787

$
7,213

$
232

$
261

$
16,493


Changes in the allowance for loan and lease losses on covered loans for the previous five quarters were as follows:

Three Months Ended
Nine Months Ended
2011
2010
September 30,
(Dollars in thousands)
Sep. 30,
June 30,
Mar. 31,
Dec. 31,
Sep. 30,
2011
2010
Balance at beginning of period
$
51,044

$
31,555

$
16,493

$
11,583

$
1,273

$
16,493

$
0

Provision for loan and lease losses
7,260

23,895

26,016

13,997

20,725

57,171

49,147

Loans charged-off
(10,609
)
(7,456
)
(14,026
)
(9,351
)
(10,492
)
(32,091
)
(37,641
)
Recoveries
417

3,050

3,072

264

77

6,539

77

Balance at end of period
$
48,112

$
51,044

$
31,555

$
16,493

$
11,583

$
48,112

$
11,583


NOTE 13:  INCOME TAXES

First Financial’s effective tax rate for the third quarter of 2011 was 38.2% compared to 36.2% for the third quarter of 2010. The 2011 year-to-date effective tax rate was 36.3% compared to 35.4% for 2010. The increase in the effective tax rate during the third quarter 2011 was primarily driven by the completion of the 2010 federal and state tax returns and adjustments of this nature are typical for this calendar quarter.

At September 30, 2011, and December 31, 2010, First Financial had no unrecognized tax benefits recorded under FASB ASC Topic 740-10, Income Taxes.  First Financial does not expect the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits to significantly increase within the next twelve months.

First Financial recognizes interest and penalties on income tax assessments or income tax refunds in the Consolidated Financial Statements as a component of noninterest expense.

First Financial and its subsidiaries are subject to U.S. federal income tax as well as state and local income tax in several jurisdictions.  Tax years prior to 2008 have been closed and are no longer subject to U.S. federal income tax examinations.

First Financial is no longer subject to state and local income tax examinations for years prior to 2007.  The Company’s 2007 state examination by the state of Indiana has closed with no material impact to the Company’s financial position as a result of the examinations.  Tax years 2007 through 2010 remain open to state and local examination in various jurisdictions.

First Financial was notified in the second quarter of 2011 that the Internal Revenue Service will commence a routine

15



examination of its income tax return for the calendar year 2009. At this time, the Company cannot make an assessment of the outcome of this examination.

NOTE 14:  EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

First Financial sponsors a non-contributory defined benefit pension plan covering substantially all employees and uses a December 31 measurement date for its defined benefit pension plan.

First Financial made cash contributions totaling $60.0 million to fund the pension plan in 2010.  First Financial does not expect to make a cash contribution to its pension plan in 2011.  As a result of the plan’s funding status and related actuarial projections for 2011, First Financial recorded income in the first nine months of 2011 of $1.0 million , compared to expense of $1.5 million for the first nine months of 2010. Likewise, First Financial recorded income in the third quarter of 2011 of $0.3 million compared to expense of $0.6 million for the same period in 2010.

The following table sets forth information concerning amounts recognized in First Financial’s Consolidated Balance Sheets and Consolidated Statements of Income.

Three months ended
Nine months ended
September 30,
September 30,
(Dollars in thousands)
2011
2010
2011
2010
Service cost
$
825

$
743

$
2,475

$
1,943

Interest cost
675

633

2,025

2,033

Expected return on assets
(2,237
)
(1,199
)
(6,787
)
(3,699
)
Amortization of prior service cost
(100
)
(117
)
(300
)
(317
)
Recognized net actuarial loss
525

498

1,575

1,548

Net periodic benefit (income) cost
$
(312
)
$
558

$
(1,012
)
$
1,508


Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss):

Three months ended
Nine months ended
September 30,
September 30,
(Dollars in thousands)
2011
2010
2011
2010
Net actuarial loss
$
525

$
498

$
1,575

$
1,548

Net prior service credit
(100
)
(117
)
(300
)
(317
)
Deferred tax (liabilities) assets
(160
)
(141
)
(481
)
(167
)
Net amount recognized
$
265

$
240

$
794

$
1,064


NOTE 15:  FAIR VALUE DISCLOSURES

Fair Value Measurement
The fair value framework as disclosed in the Fair Value Measurements and Disclosure Topic of the FASB Accounting Standards Codification (Fair Value Topic) includes a hierarchy which focuses on prioritizing the inputs used in valuation techniques.  The fair value hierarchy gives the highest priority to quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1), a lower priority to observable inputs other than quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities (Level 2), and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3).  When determining the fair value measurements for assets and liabilities, First Financial looks to active markets to price identical assets or liabilities whenever possible and classifies such items in Level 1.  When identical assets and liabilities are not traded in active markets, First Financial looks to market observable data for similar assets and liabilities and classifies such items as Level 2.  Certain assets and liabilities are not actively traded in observable markets and First Financial must use alternative techniques, based on unobservable inputs, to determine the fair value and classifies such items as Level 3. The level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of input that is significant in the fair value measurement.


16



The following methods, assumptions, and valuation techniques were used by First Financial to measure different financial assets and liabilities at fair value and in estimating its fair value disclosures for financial instruments.

Cash and short-term investments – The carrying amounts reported in the Consolidated Balance Sheets for cash and short-term investments, such as federal funds sold, approximated the fair value of those instruments.

Investment securities – Investment securities classified as trading and available-for-sale are recorded at fair value on a recurring basis.  Fair value measurement is based upon quoted market prices, when available (Level 1).  If quoted market prices are not available, fair values are measured utilizing independent valuation techniques of identical or similar investment securities.  Third party vendors compile prices from various sources and may apply such techniques as matrix pricing to determine the value of identical or similar investment securities (Level 2).  Matrix pricing is a mathematical technique widely used in the banking industry to value investment securities without relying exclusively on quoted prices for the specific investment securities but rather relying on the investment securities’ relationship to other benchmark quoted investment securities.  Any investment securities not valued based upon the methods above are considered Level 3.

First Financial utilizes information provided by a third party investment securities portfolio manager in analyzing the investment securities portfolio in accordance with the fair value hierarchy of the Fair Value Topic.  The portfolio manager’s evaluation of investment security portfolio pricing is performed using a combination of prices and data from third party vendors, along with internally developed matrix pricing models and assistance from the provider’s internal fixed income analysts and trading desk.  The portfolio manager’s month-end pricing process includes a series of quality assurance activities where prices are compared to recent market conditions, previous evaluation prices, and between the various pricing services.  These processes produce a series of quality assurance reports on which price exceptions are identified, reviewed, and where appropriate, securities are repriced.  In the event of a materially different price, the portfolio manager will report the variance to the third party vendor as a “price challenge”, and review the pricing methodology in detail.  The results of the quality assurance process are incorporated into the selection of pricing providers by the portfolio manager.

Loans held for sale – Loans held for sale are carried at the lower of cost or market value.  These loans currently consist of one-to-four family residential real estate loans originated for sale to qualified third parties.  Fair value is based on the contractual price to be received from these third parties, which is not materially different than cost due to the short duration between origination and sale (Level 2).  As such, First Financial records any fair value adjustments on a nonrecurring basis.  Gains and losses on the sale of loans are recorded as net gains from sales of loans within noninterest income in the Consolidated Statements of Income.

Loans (excluding covered loans) – The fair value of commercial, commercial real estate, residential real estate, and consumer loans were estimated by discounting the future cash flows using the current rates at which similar loans would be made to borrowers with similar credit ratings and for the same remaining maturities or repricing frequency.  The carrying amount of accrued interest approximates its fair value.

Loans are designated as impaired when, in the judgment of management based on current information and events, it is probable that all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement will not be collected.  Impaired loans are valued at the lower of cost or market for purposes of determining the appropriate amount of impairment to be allocated to the allowance for loan and lease losses.  Market value is measured based on the value of the collateral securing the loans.  Collateral may be in the form of real estate or business assets including equipment, inventory, and accounts receivable.  The vast majority of the collateral is real estate.  The value of real estate collateral is determined utilizing an income or market valuation approach based on an appraisal conducted by an independent, licensed appraiser from outside of the Company (Level 2). The value of business equipment is based upon an outside appraisal if deemed significant, or the net book value on the applicable borrower financial statements if not considered significant.  Likewise, values for inventory and accounts receivable collateral are based on borrower financial statement balances or aging reports (Level 3).  Impaired loans allocated to the allowance for loan and lease losses are measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis.  Any fair value adjustments are recorded in the period incurred as provision for loan and lease losses on the Consolidated Statements of Income.

Covered loans – Fair values for covered loans accounted for under FASB ASC 310-30 were based on a discounted cash flow methodology that considered factors including the type of loan and related collateral, classification status, fixed or variable interest rate, term of loan and whether or not the loan was amortizing, and a discount rate reflecting the Company's assessment of risk inherent in the cash flow estimates. Covered loans were grouped together according to similar characteristics and were treated in the aggregate when applying various valuation techniques. First Financial estimated the cash flows expected to be collected on these loans based upon the expected remaining life of the underlying loans, which includes the effects of estimated prepayments.

17




Fair values for covered loans accounted for outside of FASB ASC Topic 310-30 were estimated by discounting the estimated future cash flows using current interest rates at which similar loans would be made to borrowers with similar credit ratings and for the same remaining maturities or repricing frequency. The carrying amount of accrued interest approximates its fair value.

These cash flow evaluations are inherently subjective as they require material estimates, all of which may be susceptible to significant change.

Mortgage-servicing rights – The fair value of mortgage-servicing rights was determined through modeling the expected future cash flows.  The modeling included stratification by maturity and coupon rates on the underlying mortgage loans.  Certain assumptions were used in the valuation regarding prepayment speeds, discount rates, servicing costs, delinquency, cash balances, and foreclosure costs which were arrived at from third-party sources and internal records.

FDIC indemnification asset – The accounting for FDIC indemnification assets is closely related to the accounting for the underlying, indemnified assets. Fair value of the FDIC indemnification asset was estimated using projected cash flows related to the loss sharing agreements based on the expected reimbursements for losses and the applicable loss sharing percentages. First Financial re-estimates the expected indemnification asset cash flows in conjunction with the periodic re-estimation of cash flows on covered loans accounted for under FASB ASC Topic 310-30. Improvements in cash flow expectations on covered loans generally result in a related decline in the expected indemnification cash flows while declines in cash flow expectations on covered loans generally result in an increase in expected indemnification cash flows.

The expected cash flows are discounted to reflect the uncertainty of the timing and receipt of the loss sharing reimbursement from the FDIC. These cash flow evaluations are inherently subjective as they require material estimates, all of which may be susceptible to significant change.

Deposit liabilities – The fair value of demand deposits, savings accounts, and certain money-market deposits was the amount payable on demand at the reporting date.  The carrying amounts for variable-rate certificates of deposit approximated their fair values at the reporting date.  The fair value of fixed-rate certificates of deposit was estimated using a discounted cash flow calculation which applies the interest rates currently offered for deposits of similar remaining maturities.  The carrying amount of accrued interest approximated its fair value.

Borrowings – The carrying amounts of federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase and other short-term borrowings approximated their fair values.  The fair value of long-term debt was estimated using a discounted cash flow calculation which utilizes the interest rates currently offered for borrowings of similar remaining maturities.  Third-party valuations were used for long-term debt with embedded options, such as call features.

Commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit – Pricing of these financial instruments is based on the credit quality and relationship, fees, interest rates, probability of funding and compensating balance and other covenants or requirements.  Loan commitments generally have fixed expiration dates, are variable rate and contain termination and other clauses which provide for relief from funding in the event that there is a significant deterioration in the credit quality of the client.  Many loan commitments are expected to expire without being drawn upon.  The rates and terms of the commitments to extend credit and the standby letters of credit are competitive with those in First Financial’s market area.  The carrying amounts are reasonable estimates of the fair value of these financial instruments.  Carrying amounts, which are comprised of the
unamortized fee income and, where necessary, reserves for any expected credit losses from these financial instruments, are immaterial.

Derivatives – First Financial utilizes interest rate swaps as a means to offer commercial borrowers products that meet their needs and also to achieve First Financial’s desired interest rate risk profile at the time.  The net interest receivable or payable is accrued and recognized as an adjustment to the interest income or interest expense of the hedged item.  First Financial utilizes third-party vendors for derivative valuation purposes.  These vendors determine the appropriate fair value based on a net present value calculation of the cash flows related to the interest rate swaps using primarily observable market inputs such as interest rate yield curves.  The discounted net present value calculated represents the cost to terminate the swap if First Financial should choose to do so on the applicable measurement date (Level 2).  Additionally, First Financial utilizes a vendor developed, proprietary model to value the credit risk component of both the derivative assets and liabilities.  The credit valuation adjustment is recorded as an adjustment to the fair value of the derivative asset or liability on the applicable measurement date (Level 3).

18



The estimated fair values of First Financial’s financial instruments were as follows:

September 30, 2011
December 31, 2010
(Dollars in thousands)
Carrying
value
Fair
value
Carrying
value
Fair
value
Financial assets
Cash and short-term investments
$
477,383

$
477,383

$
282,933

$
282,933

Investment securities held-to-maturity
2,724

2,953

17,406

18,066

Investment securities available-for-sale
1,120,179

1,120,179

919,110

919,110

Other investments
71,492

71,492

78,689

78,689

Loans held for sale
14,259

14,259

29,292

29,292

Loans, excluding covered loans
2,883,124

2,858,649

2,758,858

2,720,080

Covered loans
1,102,954

1,126,291

1,465,000

1,477,631

Mortgage-servicing rights
1,049

1,066

1,502

1,502

FDIC indemnification asset
177,814

159,537

222,648

212,431

Accrued interest receivable
12,584

12,584

14,063

14,063

Derivative financial instruments
0

0

262

262

Financial liabilities




Deposits




Noninterest-bearing
$
814,928

$
814,928

$
705,484

$
705,484

Interest-bearing demand
1,288,721

1,288,721

1,111,877

1,111,877

Savings
1,537,420

1,537,420

1,534,045

1,534,045

Time
1,658,031

1,677,444

1,794,843

1,818,237

Total deposits
5,299,100

5,318,513

5,146,249

5,169,643

Short-term borrowings
95,451

95,451

59,842

59,842

Long-term debt
76,875

82,022

128,880

125,825

Other long-term debt
0

0

20,620

20,620

Accrued interest payable
3,963

3,963

5,516

5,516

Derivative financial instruments
3,760

3,760

3,223

3,223


The following table summarizes the financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis at September 30, 2011 :

Fair Value Measurements Using
(Dollars in thousands)
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Netting
Adjustments (1)
Assets/Liabilities
at Fair Value
Assets
Derivatives
$
0

$
26,086

$
(1,353
)
$
(24,733
)
$
0

Available-for-sale investment securities
133

1,120,046

0

0

1,120,179

Total
$
133

$
1,146,132

$
(1,353
)
$
(24,733
)
$
1,120,179

Liabilities





Derivatives
$
0

$
28,493

$
0

$
(24,733
)
$
3,760


(1)
Amounts represent the impact of legally enforceable master netting arrangements that allow First Financial to settle positive and negative positions and also cash collateral held with the same counterparties.


19



Certain financial assets and liabilities are measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis.  Adjustments to the fair market value of these assets usually result from the application of lower-of-cost-or-market accounting or write-downs of individual assets.  The following table summarizes financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis at September 30, 2011 :

Fair Value Measurements Using
(Dollars in thousands)
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Year-to-date
Gains/(Losses)
Assets
Loans held for sale
$
0

$
14,259

$
0

$
0

Impaired loans (1)
35

17,060

444

0


(1) Amounts represent the fair value of collateral for impaired loans allocated to the allowance for loan and lease losses.  Fair values are determined using actual market prices (Level 1), independent third party valuations, discounted as appropriate (Level 2), and borrower records discounted as appropriate (Level 3).

NOTE 16:  ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

Shareholders’ equity is affected by transactions and valuations of asset and liability positions that require adjustments to accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).  The related tax effects allocated to other comprehensive income and accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) are as follows:

September 30, 2011
Transactions
(Dollars in thousands)
Pre-tax
Tax-effect
Net of tax
Balances
Net of tax
Unrealized gain on securities available-for-sale
$
12,966

$
(4,896
)
$
8,070

$
17,134

Unrealized loss on derivatives
628

(237
)
391

0

Unfunded pension obligation
1,275

(481
)
794

(20,488
)
Foreign currency translation
(599
)
0

(599
)
(34
)
Total
$
14,270

$
(5,614
)
$
8,656

$
(3,388
)

September 30, 2010
Transactions
(Dollars in thousands)
Pre-tax
Tax-effect
Net of tax
Balances
Net of tax
Unrealized gain on securities available-for-sale
$
3,225

$
(1,331
)
$
1,894

$
12,118

Unrealized loss on derivatives
(2,787
)
1,022

(1,765
)
(834
)
Unfunded pension obligation
1,231

(167
)
1,064

(20,697
)
Foreign currency translation
188

0

188

307

Total
$
1,857

$
(476
)
$
1,381

$
(9,106
)

NOTE 17:  EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE

The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share:

Three months ended
Nine months ended
September 30,
September 30,
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
2011
2010
2011
2010
Numerator for basic and diluted earnings per share -income available to common shareholders:
Net income
$
15,618

$
15,579

$
48,798

$
44,951

Dividends on preferred stock
0

0

0

1,865

Income available to common shareholders
$
15,618

$
15,579

$
48,798

$
43,086

Denominator for basic earnings per share - weighted average shares
57,735,811

57,570,709

57,674,250

56,765,933

Effect of dilutive securities —


Employee stock awards
841,604

873,959

930,461

887,478

Warrants
76,684

86,837

95,241

105,495

Denominator for diluted earnings per share - adjusted weighted average shares
58,654,099

58,531,505

58,699,952

57,758,906

Earnings per share available to common shareholders


Basic
$
0.27

$
0.27

$
0.85

$
0.76

Diluted
$
0.27

$
0.27

$
0.83

$
0.75


Stock options and warrants, where the exercise price was greater than the average market price of the common shares, were not included in the computation of net income per diluted share as they would have been antidilutive.  These out-of-the-money options were 1,267,705 and 692,312 at September 30, 2011 and 2010, respectively.  The warrants to purchase 465,117 shares of common stock were outstanding as of September 30, 2011 and 2010.


20



ITEM 2-MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (MD&A)
FIRST FINANCIAL BANCORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
(Unaudited)

SUMMARY

First Financial is a $6.3 billion bank holding company headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio.  As of September 30, 2011 First Financial, through its subsidiaries, operated in Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky.  These subsidiaries include a commercial bank, First Financial Bank, N.A. (Bank) with 116 banking centers and 142 ATMs. An investment advisory company, First Financial Capital Advisors LLC, which had been a subsidiary of First Financial, was dissolved effective September 1, 2011.  First Financial conducts three primary activities through its bank subsidiary: commercial banking, retail banking and wealth management.  First Financial Bank provides credit based products, deposit accounts, corporate cash management support, and other services to commercial and retail clients.  The wealth management activities include a full range of services including trust services, brokerage, investment, and other related services.  Additionally, the Bank conducts specialty, franchise lending providing equipment and leasehold improvement financing for franchisees, in the quick service and casual dining restaurant sector, throughout the United States.  Loans to franchisees often include the financing of real estate as well as equipment.  The franchise portfolio is managed to a risk-appropriate level so as not to create an industry, geographic or franchisee concept concentration.

MARKET STRATEGY

First Financial serves a combination of metropolitan and non-metropolitan markets in Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky through its full-service banking centers, while the franchise lending activity serves borrowers throughout the United States. First Financial’s market selection process includes a number of factors, but markets are primarily chosen for their potential for growth, and long-term profitability. First Financial’s goal is to develop a competitive advantage utilizing a local market focus; building long-term relationships with clients, helping them reach greater levels of success in their financial life and providing a superior level of service.  First Financial intends to continue to concentrate future growth plans and capital investments in its metropolitan markets.  Smaller markets have historically provided stable, low-cost funding sources to First Financial and remain an important part of its funding base.  First Financial believes its historical strength in these markets should enable it to retain or improve its market share.

During the first quarter of 2011, First Financial exited the four banking center locations comprising its Michigan geographic market as well as its single banking center in Louisville, Kentucky. First Financial decided to shift resources towards core markets such as Cincinnati and Dayton, Ohio and Indianapolis, Southern and Northwest Indiana that it believes will provide a higher level of potential overall growth while improving the efficiency of its operations.  The five banking centers in Michigan and Louisville were acquired during 2009 as part of First Financial’s Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC)-assisted transactions under which the Company assumed the banking operations of Irwin Union Bank and Trust Company and Irwin Union Bank, F.S.B. (collectively, Irwin).

BUSINESS COMBINATIONS

On September 23, 2011, First Financial Bank, N.A., completed the purchase of 16 Ohio banking centers from Liberty Savings Bank, FSB (Liberty) including $126.5 million of performing loans and $341.9 million of deposits at their estimated fair values. First Financial also acquired $3.8 million of fixed assets at estimated fair value and paid Liberty a $22.4 million net deposit premium. Assets acquired in this transaction are not subject to a loss share agreement. The Liberty banking center acquisition was accounted for in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 805, Business Combinations. Fair values are preliminary and subject to refinement for up to one year after the closing date of the acquisition (the measurement period) as information relative to closing date fair values becomes available. First Financial recorded $17.1 million of goodwill during the third quarter of 2011 related to the acquisition.

Also during the third quarter of 2011, First Financial signed a purchase and assumption agreement to acquire 22 Indiana-based retail banking branches from Flagstar Bank, FSB (Flagstar) and assume approximately $530 million of deposits associated with these branches. The Flagstar transaction is expected to close during the fourth quarter 2011. While both companies have received regulatory approval, the transaction remains subject to other customary closing conditions.

During the third quarter of 2009, through FDIC-assisted transactions, First Financial acquired the banking operations of Peoples Community Bank (Peoples) and Irwin. The acquisitions of the Peoples and Irwin franchises significantly expanded the First Financial footprint, opened new markets and strengthened the company through the generation of additional capital.

21




In connection with the Peoples and Irwin FDIC-assisted transactions, First Financial entered into loss sharing agreements with the FDIC. Under the terms of these agreements the FDIC reimburses First Financial for a percentage of losses with respect to certain loans (covered loans) and other real estate owned (covered OREO) (collectively, covered assets). These agreements provide for loss protection on single-family, residential loans for a period of ten years and First Financial is required to share any recoveries of previously charged-off amounts for the same time period, on the same pro-rata basis with the FDIC. All other loans are provided loss protection for a period of five years and recoveries of previously charged-off loans must be shared with the FDIC for a period of eight years, again on the same pro-rata basis. The FDIC's obligation to reimburse First Financial for losses with respect to covered assets for all three assisted transactions began with the first dollar of loss incurred. Covered loans represent approximately 28% of First Financial’s loans at September 30, 2011 .

First Financial must follow specific servicing and resolution procedures, as outlined in the loss share agreements, in order to receive reimbursement from the FDIC for losses on covered assets. The Company has established separate and dedicated teams of legal, finance, credit and technology staff to execute and monitor all activity related to each agreement, including the required periodic reporting to the FDIC. First Financial services all covered assets with the same resolution practices and diligence as it does for the assets that are not subject to a loss share agreement.

Covered loans acquired from Peoples totaling $421.0 million in unpaid principal balances are subject to a stated loss threshold of $190.0 million whereby the FDIC will reimburse First Financial for 80% of covered asset losses up to $190.0 million, and 95% of losses beyond $190.0 million.

Covered loans acquired from Irwin Union Bank totaling $1.9 billion in unpaid principal balances are subject to a stated loss threshold of $526.0 million whereby the FDIC will reimburse First Financial for 80% of covered asset losses up to $526.0 million, and 95% of losses beyond $526.0 million.

Covered loans acquired from Irwin FSB totaling $368.1 million in unpaid principal balances are subject to a stated loss threshold of $110.0 million whereby the FDIC will reimburse First Financial for 80% of covered asset losses up to $110.0 million, and 95% of losses beyond $110.0 million.

Each acquisition was considered a business combination and accounted for under FASB ASC Topic 805, Business Combinations, FASB ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures, FASB ASC Topic 310-30, Loans and Debt Securities Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality, and FASB ASC Topic 310-20, Receivables-Nonrefundable Fees and Costs.  All acquired assets and liabilities, including identifiable intangible assets, were recorded at their estimated fair values as of the date of acquisition. For a more detailed discussion of the transactions please see Note 3, Business Combinations.

OVERVIEW OF OPERATIONS

Reclassifications of prior periods’ amounts, if applicable, have been made to conform to current period’s presentation and had no effect on previously reported net income amounts or financial condition.

Third quarter 2011 net income and net income available to common shareholders, was $15.6 million , and earnings per diluted common share were $0.27 .  This compares with third quarter 2010 net income and net income available to common shareholders of $15.6 million and earnings per diluted common share of $0.27.

For the nine month period ended September 30, 2011 , net income and net income available to common shareholders, was $48.8 million , and earnings per diluted common share was $0.83 . This compares with net income of $45.0 million , net income available to common shareholders of $43.1 million , and earnings per diluted common share of $0.75 for the nine month period ended September 30, 2010.

Return on average assets for the third quarter of 2011 was 1.01% compared to 0.96% for the comparable period in 2010 and 0.90% for the quarter ended December 31, 2010.  Return on average shareholders’ equity for the third quarter of 2011 was 8.54% compared to 9.03% for the comparable period in 2010 and 8.14% for the quarter ended December 31, 2010.

Return on average assets for the first nine months of 2011 was 1.05% compared to 0.92% for the comparable period in 2010. Return on average shareholders' equity was 9.19% for the first nine months of 2011 compared to 8.86% for the same period in 2010.

A discussion of the first nine months and third quarter of 2011 results of operations follows.


22



NET INTEREST INCOME

Net interest income, First Financial’s principal source of income, is the excess of interest received from earning assets over interest paid on interest-bearing liabilities.  For analytical purposes, net interest income is also presented in the table that follows, adjusted to a tax equivalent basis assuming a 35% marginal tax rate for interest earned on tax-exempt assets such as municipal loans and investments.  This is to recognize the income tax savings that facilitates a comparison between taxable and tax-exempt assets.  Management believes that it is a standard practice in the banking industry to present net interest margin and net interest income on a fully tax equivalent basis.  Therefore, management believes these measures provide useful information for both management and investors by allowing them to make peer comparisons.

Three Months Ended
Nine months ended
September 30,
September 30,
(Dollars in thousands)
2011
2010
2011
2010
Net interest income
$
65,218

$
67,846

$
198,420

$
207,604

Tax equivalent adjustment
236

222

714

646

Net interest income - tax equivalent
$
65,454

$
68,068

$
199,134

$
208,250

Average earning assets
$
5,687,036

$
5,867,311

$
5,730,642

$
5,946,078

Net interest margin *
4.55
%
4.59
%
4.63
%
4.67
%
Net interest margin (fully tax equivalent) *
4.57
%
4.60
%
4.65
%
4.68
%

* Margins are calculated using annualized net interest income divided by average earning assets.

Net interest income for the third quarter of 2011 was $65.2 million , a decline of $2.6 million from the third quarter of 2010 net interest income of $67.8 million .  Net interest income on a fully tax-equivalent basis for the third quarter 2011 was $65.5 million as compared to $68.1 million for the third quarter of 2010.  Compared to the third quarter of 2010, total interest income declined $8.7 million, or 10.3% during the third quarter 2011 due to lower interest income earned on loans, driven primarily by a 27.4% decline in average covered loan balances, and the reduced yield on the FDIC indemnification asset as a result of better than expected credit performance in the covered loan portfolio. However, this decline was partially offset by an increase in interest earned on investments. Total interest expense declined $6.1 million, or 36.3%, due primarily to lower interest expense on deposits and lower funding costs resulting from the prepayment of $232 million of FHLB advances that occurred during the third quarter 2010 as well as the redemption of $20.6 million of trust preferred securities in the second quarter 2011.

For the nine month period ended September 30, 2011 , net interest income was $198.4 million as compared to $207.6 million for the comparable period in 2010. Similar to the quarterly year-over-year items noted above, the decline was driven by lower average covered loan balances and the reduced yield on the FDIC indemnification asset, offset partially by higher interest income from investments and lower funding costs.

Net interest margin was 4.55% for the third quarter 2011 as compared to 4.59% for the third quarter 2010.  Net interest margin continued to be negatively impacted by the combination of normal amortization and paydowns in the originated and covered loan portfolios, with proceeds reinvested in lower yielding securities, as well as lower yields earned on new loan originations during the quarter. However, yields remained strong on covered loans, helping to offset the decline in the balance outstanding. During the quarter, the Company implemented several strategic initiatives related to deposits, including a repricing strategy on all deposit products offered and reducing the balance of higher-cost, non-core relationships, which positively impacted net interest margin. The Company also used liquidity to purchase $38.6 million of investment securities as well as realized a full quarter's impact from both investment purchases that settled late in the second quarter 2011 and the redemption of $20.6 million of trust preferred securities that also occurred late in the second quarter. Additionally, liquidity not used to purchase investments was used to fund the redemption of wholesale borrowings and maturing time deposits, including the expected runoff of retail certificates of deposits and deposits related to the exited markets of Michigan and Louisville, helping to offset the margin decline from lower total loan balances.

Net interest margin for the nine month period ended September 30, 2011 declined slightly to 4.63% as compared to 4.67% for the nine month period ended September 30, 2010.


23



Net interest margin is affected by certain activity related to the covered loan portfolio. The majority of these loans are accounted for under ASC Topic 310-30 and, as such, the Company is required to periodically update its forecast of expected cash flows from these loans. Impairment, as a result of a decrease in expected cash flows, is recognized in the period it is measured as provision expense and has no impact on net interest margin. Improvements in expected cash flows are recognized on a prospective basis through an upward adjustment to the yield earned on the portfolio. Impairment and improvement are both partially offset by the impact of changes in the value of the FDIC indemnification asset. Impairment is partially offset by an increase to the FDIC indemnification asset as a result of FDIC loss sharing income and has no impact on net interest margin. Improvement, which is reflected as a higher yield, is partially offset by a lower yield earned on the FDIC indemnification asset until the next periodic valuation of the loans and the indemnification asset. The weighted average yield of the acquired loan portfolio can also be subject to change as loans with higher yields pay down more quickly or slowly than loans with lower yields.

The Consolidated Average Balance Sheets and Net Interest Income Analysis that follows are presented on a GAAP basis.


24



QUARTERLY CONSOLIDATED AVERAGE BALANCE SHEETS AND NET INTEREST INCOME ANALYSIS

September 30, 2011
June 30, 2011
September 30, 2010
(Dollars in thousands)
Average
Balance
Interest
Average
Rate
Average
Balance
Interest
Average
Rate
Average
Balance
Interest
Average
Rate
Earning assets
Investments:
Interest-bearing deposits with other banks
$
306,969

$
208

0.27
%
$
375,434

$
328

0.35
%
$
483,097

$
396

0.33
%
Investment securities
1,199,473

7,587

2.51
%
1,093,870

7,272

2.67
%
691,700

5,626

3.23
%
Gross loans including covered loans and  indemnification asset (1)
4,180,594

68,157

6.47
%
4,264,300

70,217

6.60
%
4,692,514

78,662

6.65
%
Total earning assets
5,687,036

75,952

5.30
%
5,733,604

77,817

5.44
%
5,867,311

84,684

5.73
%
Nonearning assets









Cash and due from banks
110,336



118,829



185,322



Allowance for loan and lease losses
(107,101
)


(94,202
)


(61,753
)


Premises and equipment
116,070



115,279



115,518



Other assets
330,474



346,244



302,081



Total assets
$
6,136,815



$
6,219,754



$
6,408,479



Interest-bearing liabilities









Deposits:









Interest-bearing
$
1,153,178

$
690

0.24
%
$
1,130,503

808

0.29
%
$
1,029,350

1,063

0.41
%
Savings
1,659,152

1,412

0.34
%
1,636,821

1,838

0.45
%
1,412,441

2,115

0.59
%
Time
1,554,497

7,721

1.97
%
1,634,779

8,121

1.99
%
2,007,138

11,279

2.23
%
Short-term borrowings
100,990

44

0.17
%
95,297

49

0.21
%
50,580

25

0.20
%
Long-term borrowings
94,150

867

3.65
%
122,899

1,134

3.70
%
301,790

2,356

3.10
%
Total interest-bearing liabilities
4,561,967

10,734

0.93
%
4,620,299

11,950

1.04
%
4,801,299

16,838

1.39
%
Noninterest-bearing liabilities and shareholders' equity









Noninterest-bearing demand
735,621



734,674



721,501



Other liabilities
113,418



157,031



201,567



Shareholders' equity
725,809



707,750



684,112



Total liabilities and shareholders' equity
$
6,136,815



$
6,219,754



$
6,408,479



Net interest income

$
65,218



$
65,867



$
67,846


Net interest spread


4.37
%


4.40
%


4.34
%
Contribution of noninterest-bearing sources of funds


0.18
%


0.21
%


0.25
%
Net interest margin (2)


4.55
%


4.61
%


4.59
%

(1)
Nonaccrual loans and loans held for sale are included in average balances.
(2)
Because noninterest-bearing funding sources, demand deposits, other liabilities, and shareholders' equity also support earning assets, the net interest margin exceeds the interest spread.

25



RATE/VOLUME ANALYSIS

The impact of changes in the volume of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities and interest rates on net interest income is illustrated in the following tables.

Changes for the Three Months Ended September 30
Linked Qtr. Income Variance
Comparable Qtr. Income Variance
(Dollars in thousands)
Rate
Volume
Total
Rate
Volume
Total
Earning assets
Investment securities
$
(428
)
$
743

$
315

$
(1,251
)
$
3,212

$
1,961

Other earning assets
(76
)
(44
)
(120
)
(69
)
(119
)
(188
)
Gross loans (1)
(1,451
)
(609
)
(2,060
)
(2,159
)
(8,346
)
(10,505
)
Total earning assets
(1,955
)
90

(1,865
)
(3,479
)
(5,253
)
(8,732
)
Interest-bearing liabilities








Total interest-bearing deposits
$
(972
)
$
28

$
(944
)
$
(4,449
)
$
(185
)
$
(4,634
)
Borrowed funds










Short-term borrowings
(8
)
3

(5
)
(3
)
22

19

Federal Home Loan Bank long-term debt
(3
)
(67
)
(70
)
555

(1,722
)
(1,167
)
Other long-term debt
0

(197
)
(197
)
0

(322
)
(322
)
Total borrowed funds
(11
)
(261
)
(272
)
552

(2,022
)
(1,470
)
Total interest-bearing liabilities
(983
)
(233
)
(1,216
)
(3,897
)
(2,207
)
(6,104
)
Net interest income (2)
$
(972
)
$
323

$
(649
)
$
418

$
(3,046
)
$
(2,628
)

(1) Loans held for sale, nonaccrual loans, covered loans, and indemnification asset are included in gross loans.
(2) Not tax equivalent.

Changes for the Nine Months Ended September 30
Year-to-Date Income Variance
(Dollars in thousands)
Rate
Volume
Total
Earning assets
Investment securities
$
(4,841
)
$
9,755

$
4,914

Other earning assets
26

(404
)
(378
)
Gross loans (1)
(4,642
)
(27,243
)
(31,885
)
Total earning assets
(9,457
)
(17,892
)
(27,349
)
Interest-bearing liabilities


Total interest-bearing deposits
$
(12,542
)
$
(881
)
$
(13,423
)
Borrowed funds


Short-term borrowings
0

77

77

Federal Home Loan Bank long-term debt
2,637

(6,891
)
(4,254
)
Other long-term debt
(363
)
(202
)
(565
)
Total borrowed funds
2,274

(7,016
)
(4,742
)
Total interest-bearing liabilities
(10,268
)
(7,897
)
(18,165
)
Net interest income
$
811

$
(9,995
)
$
(9,184
)

NONINTEREST INCOME

Third quarter 2011 noninterest income was $28.1 million, compared to $44.9 million in the third quarter of 2010.  The decline in noninterest income from the comparable quarter in 2010 was due primarily to lower reimbursements due from the FDIC on covered assets as well as declines in accelerated discount on covered loans and gains from sales of loans. When losses are incurred on covered loans, the Company recognizes those credit losses as provision expense, while losses incurred on covered

26



OREO are recognized as other noninterest expense. Reimbursements due from the FDIC under loss share agreements related to these credit losses are recorded as noninterest income and were $8.4 million for the third quarter of 2011 and $17.8 million for the third quarter of 2010.  The impact on earnings of this offsetting activity is the net effect of the credit losses and FDIC reimbursement, representing the Company’s proportionate share of the credit losses realized on covered loans.

While no material sales of covered loans occurred during the third quarter of 2011, covered loan activity continued to positively impact noninterest income due to a small amount of loan sale activity as well as prepayments. Accelerated discount is recognized when acquired loans, which are recorded on the Company’s balance sheet at an amount less than the unpaid principal balance, prepay at an amount greater than their recorded book value. Prepayments can occur either through customer driven payments before the maturity date or loan sales.  The amount of discount attributable to the credit loss component of each loan varies and the recognized amount is offset by a related reduction in the FDIC indemnification asset. First Financial recognized accelerated discount on covered loans of $5.2 million for the third quarter of 2011 and $9.4 million for the third quarter of 2010.

First Financial sold $13.8 million of loans originated by its franchise finance business during the third quarter of 2011 resulting in a $0.7 million gain. During the third quarter of 2010, the Company sold approximately $23.2 million of loans originated by its franchise finance business, recognizing a $2.0 million gain.

On a comparable basis, noninterest income for the nine months ended September 30, 2011 was $112.9 million as compared to $112.3 million for the nine months period ended September 30, 2010 . The increase of $0.6 million, or 0.5%, was primarily attributable to increased FDIC loss sharing income of $12.9 million, offset by a decline in accelerated discount on covered loans of $7.2 million as well as declines of $2.8 million in service charges on deposits and $2.8 million in other noninterest income. The increase in FDIC loss sharing income for the nine months ended September 30, 2011 reflects an increase in expected reimbursements from the FDIC as a result of losses related to covered assets. The decline in accelerated discount on covered loans is a result of fewer borrowers paying off their loans prior to contractual maturity and a lower level of covered loan sales during the period while the decline in service charges on deposits is primarily attributable to regulatory factors. The decline in other noninterest income is the result of the settlement of certain initial cash items and valuations related to the 2009 FDIC acquisitions in the nine months ended September 30, 2010 as well as the runoff of certain reinsurance activities related to a subsidiary acquired as part of the Irwin acquisition in 2009.

NONINTEREST EXPENSE

Third quarter 2011 noninterest expense was $53.1 million, compared with $61.3 million in the third quarter of 2010. The $8.2 million or 13.3% decline from the comparable quarter in 2010 was primarily due to an $8.0 million prepayment penalty on Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) advances that was incurred in the third quarter of 2010. Also contributing to the decline was reduced FDIC assessments of $0.9 million related to lower assessment rates that became effective in the second quarter of 2011 and a $1.0 million decline in salaries and employee benefits. The decline in salaries and employee benefits expense was primarily the result of the Company exiting five banking center locations in Michigan and Kentucky during the first quarter of 2011 as well as other cost management efforts, partially offset by elevated staffing and employee benefit costs associated with certain exit and transition activities during the third quarter of 2011. The declines in debt extinguishment costs, FDIC assessments, and salaries and benefits expenses were partially offset by a $2.2 million increase in other noninterest expenses primarily related to losses on covered OREO and costs related to the Liberty banking center acquisition. Covered OREO expenses are partially reimbursed by the FDIC.

For the nine months ended September 30, 2011 , noninterest expense totaled $163.4 million compared to $177.4 million for the comparable year-over-year period. This decline in year-to-date noninterest expense was primarily due to the $8.0 million prepayment penalty on FHLB advances, lower salaries and employee benefits, occupancy expense, communication expense, and FDIC assessments as a result of lower headcount, fewer banking centers and lower FDIC assessment rates as discussed above.  These declines were partially offset by increases in professional services, data processing and other noninterest expenses due primarily to litigation relating to the departure of certain employees from First Franchise in the first quarter of 2011 as well as costs associated with the Liberty banking center acquisition and OREO-related expenses.

INCOME TAXES

Income tax expense was $9.7 million and $8.8 million for the third quarters of 2011 and 2010, respectively. The effective tax rates for the third quarters of 2011 and 2010 were 38.2% and 36.2% , respectively. The increase in the effective tax rate during the third quarter 2011 was primarily driven by the completion of the Company's 2010 federal and state tax returns and adjustments of this nature are typical for this calendar quarter.


27



Income tax expense was $27.9 million and $24.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2011 and 2010. The effective tax rates for the nine months ended September 30, 2011 , and 2010, were 36.3% and 35.4% , respectively.

LOANS - Excluding covered loans

Loans, excluding covered loans, totaled $2.9 billion at September 30, 2011 , representing an increase of $121.6 million, or 4.3%, compared to December 31, 2010.  The year to date increase in loan balances is primarily the result of the $126.5 million of performing loans acquired in connection with the Liberty branch acquisition during the third quarter of 2011.

Third quarter 2011 average loans excluding covered loans and loans held for sale, increased $8.9 million or 0.3% from the third quarter of 2010.  The increase in average loans excluding covered loans and loans held for sale was primarily related to a $45.6 million decline in average construction real estate loans and a $28.8 million decline in average residential real estate loans, offset by a $68.9 million increase in average commercial and commercial real estate loans and an $11.4 million increase in leases. As the Liberty transaction closed late in the third quarter, the acquired loans had a minimal effect on the average loan balances.

LOANS - Covered

As of September 30, 2011 , 28.2% of the Company’s total loans were covered loans.  As required under the loss-share agreements, First Financial must file monthly certifications with the FDIC on single-family residential loans and quarterly certifications on all other loans.  To date, all certifications have been filed in a timely manner and without significant issues.

Covered loans totaled $1.2 billion at September 30, 2011 , representing a $330.4 million, or 22.3%, decline compared to December 31, 2010.  The decline in covered loan balances is expected as there were no acquisitions of loans subject to loss share agreements during the period.  The covered loan portfolio will continue to decline through payoffs, loan sales, charge-offs, and termination or expiration of loss share coverage unless First Financial acquires additional loans subject to loss share agreements in the future. Loans with coverage terminated, or removed, generally represent loans to high quality borrowers involving a change in loan terms which caused the respective loans to no longer qualify for reimbursement from the FDIC in the event of credit losses.

INVESTMENTS

Investment securities totaled $1.2 billion or 18.8% of total assets at September 30, 2011 , compared with $1.0 billion or 16.2% of total assets at December 31, 2010.  Securities available-for-sale at September 30, 2011 , totaled $1.1 billion , compared with $919.1 million at December 31, 2010.

The $179.2 million or 17.7% net increase in the investment portfolio as compared to December 31, 2010 was due to the purchase of $449.4 million of agency mortgage backed securities, partially offset by maturities and amortizations, during the period.  The net growth in the investment portfolio is primarily due to the investment of liquidity resulting from continued, muted loan demand and deposit inflows.

The Company received $190.7 million of cash upon closing of the Liberty transaction which had not yet been redeployed as of September 30, 2011. Subsequent to the end of the third quarter, the Company began deploying these proceeds through the purchase of agency mortgage backed securities. The addition of longer duration securities was executed in conjunction with First Financial’s overall asset/liability structure and interest rate risk modeling activities, and, to a lesser extent, market and rate expectations.  First Financial continues to avoid adding any particular securities to its portfolio that would materially increase credit risk or geographic concentration risk.  The Company does, however, include these risks in its total evaluation of current market opportunities that would enhance the overall performance of the portfolio.

First Financial has recorded, as a component of equity in accumulated other comprehensive income, an unrealized after-tax gain on the investment portfolio of approximately $17.1 million at September 30, 2011 , compared with $9.1 million at December 31, 2010.

DEPOSITS AND FUNDING

Total deposits as of September 30, 2011 were $5.3 billion, an increase of $152.9 million or 3.0% compared to December 31, 2010.  The increase in total deposits as compared to December 31, 2010 was primarily related to the $341.9 million of deposits assumed in connection with the Liberty branch acquisition during the third quarter of 2011 partially offset by the continued runoff of certain deposits acquired as part of the Irwin acquisition in 2009. The increase in deposit balances reflects the

28



continued benefits of First Financial’s deposit pricing strategy as outflows of time deposits and brokered deposits have been replaced with less expensive transaction-based and wholesale funding. Additionally, First Financial focused on several strategic initiatives related to deposits that impacted the activity during the period. Specifically, the Company implemented a more disciplined pricing strategy on all deposit products and initiated a deposit rationalization strategy focused on improving core relationship profitability and reducing non-core relationship deposits.

Third quarter 2011 average deposits declined $68.0 million, or 1.3%, from September 30, 2010.  The decline in average deposits was primarily related to a $452.6 million, or 22.6%, decline in average time deposits partially offset by a $246.7 million increase in average savings account balances and a $123.8 million increase in average interest-bearing checking account balances during the period.

Borrowed funds as of September 30, 2011 totaled $172.3 million, as compared to $209.3 million as of December 31, 2010. This decrease was primarily due to the redemption of the $20.6 million of floating rate trust preferred securities in the second quarter 2011.

RISK MANAGEMENT

Risk is an inherent part of First Financial’s business activities and the Company manages risks through a structured enterprise risk management (ERM) approach that routinely assesses the overall level of risk and identifies specific risks and the steps being taken to mitigate them. First Financial continues to enhance its risk management capabilities and has, over time, enhanced risk awareness as part of the culture of the Company.  First Financial has identified nine types of risk that it monitors in its ERM framework.  These risks include information technology, market, legal, strategic, reputation, credit, regulatory (compliance), operational and external/environmental.

For further discussion of these risks, see Risk Management on pages 19 – 25 of First Financial’s 2010 Annual Report and the information below.

CREDIT RISK

Credit risk represents the risk of loss due to failure of a customer or counterparty to meet its financial obligations in accordance with contractual terms. First Financial manages credit risk through its underwriting process, periodically reviewing and approving its credit exposures using Board of Directors approved credit policies and guidelines.  Due to the significant differences in the accounting for covered loans and the loss sharing agreements with the FDIC, management believes that asset quality measures excluding covered loans are generally more meaningful.  Therefore, management has included asset quality measures that exclude covered loans in the table in this section.

Allowance for loan and lease losses (excluding covered loans)

Management maintains the allowance at a level that is considered sufficient to absorb inherent risks in the loan portfolio. Management’s evaluation in establishing the adequacy of the allowance includes evaluation of the loan and lease portfolios, past loan and lease loss experience, known and inherent risks in the portfolio, adverse situations that may affect the borrower’s ability to repay (including the timing of future payments), the estimated value of any underlying collateral, composition of the loan portfolio, economic conditions, and other pertinent factors, such as periodic internal and external evaluations of delinquent, nonaccrual, and classified loans.  The evaluation is inherently subjective as it requires utilizing material estimates, including the amounts and timing of future cash flows expected to be received on impaired loans.  The evaluation of these factors is the responsibility of the Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses Committee, which is comprised of senior officers from the risk management, credit administration, finance, and lending areas.

As of the end of the third quarter 2011, the allowance for uncovered loan and lease losses was $54.5 million compared to $57.2 million as of December 31, 2010.  As a percentage of period-end loans, the allowance for loan and lease losses was 1.86% as of September 30, 2011 compared to 2.03% as of December 31, 2010.  The allowance for loan and lease losses as of September 30, 2011 reflects management’s estimate of credit risk inherent in the Company’s uncovered loan portfolio at that time.

Third quarter 2011 net charge-offs were $6.8 million or 0.96% of average loans and leases, compared with $5.7 million or 0.83% for the quarter ended June 30, 2011, and $6.8 million or 0.97% for the comparable year-over-year quarter. Significant items driving net charge-offs for the quarter included $1.6 million related to three separate residential development credits, $1.5 million related to a multifamily real estate loan and $0.5 million related to a recreational facility credit.

For the nine months ended September 30, 2011 , net charge-offs were $16.7 million , or 0.80% of average loans and leases, as

29



compared to $25.9 million , or 1.23% , for the nine months ended September 30, 2010 .

Third quarter 2011 provision expense related to uncovered loans and leases was $7.6 million as compared to $5.8 million during the linked quarter and $6.3 million during the comparable year-over-year quarter.  As a percentage of net charge-offs, third quarter 2011 provision expense equaled 112.8% compared to 100.5% during the second quarter 2011 and 91.8% during the third quarter 2010.

For the nine months ended September 30, 2011 , provision expense related to uncovered loans and leases was $14.0 million as compared to $23.8 million for the same period in 2010. As a percentage of net charge-offs, year-to-date 2011 provision expense was 83.9% compared to 92.0% for the same period in 2010.

The table that follows indicates the activity in the allowance for loan losses, excluding covered loans, for the quarterly periods presented.

Three Months Ended
Nine Months Ended
2011
2010
September 30,
(Dollars in thousands)
Sep. 30,
June 30,
Mar. 31,
Dec. 31,
Sep. 30,
2011
2010
ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN AND LEASE LOSS ACTIVITY

Balance at beginning of period
$
53,671

$
53,645

$
57,235

$
57,249

$
57,811

$
57,235

$
59,311

Provision for loan losses
7,643

5,756

647

9,741

6,287

14,046

23,823

Gross charge-offs
Commercial
879

383

432

5,131

762

1,694

8,193

Real estate-construction
1,771

1,213

1,190

500

3,607

4,174

8,119

Real estate-commercial
2,997

2,791

2,089

1,887

2,013

7,877

6,304

Real estate-residential
564

406

108

196

717

1,078

1,497

Installment
162

177

72

231

205

411

923

Home equity
510

923

262

1,846

389

1,695

1,653

All other
291

339

448

494

431

1,078

1,377

Total gross charge-offs
7,174

6,232

4,601

10,285

8,124

18,007

28,066

Recoveries
Commercial
92

222

100

57

334

414

563

Real estate-construction
0

27

0

0

0

27

24

Real estate-commercial
168

38

35

243

728

241

839

Real estate-residential
4

29

9

6

11

42

18

Installment
87

82

98

116

116

267

403

Home equity
9

12

25

74

21

46

118

All other
37

92

97

34

65

226

216

Total recoveries
397

502

364

530

1,275

1,263

2,181

Total net charge-offs
6,777

5,730

4,237

9,755

6,849

16,744

25,885

Ending allowance for loan losses
$
54,537

$
53,671

$
53,645

$
57,235

$
57,249

$
54,537

$
57,249

NET CHARGE-OFFS TO AVERAGE LOANS AND LEASES (ANNUALIZED)


Commercial
0.39
%
0.08
%
0.17
%
2.72
%
0.23
%
0.21
%
1.35
%
Real estate-construction
4.96
%
3.42
%
3.05
%
1.15
%
7.64
%
3.79
%
5.23
%
Real estate-commercial
0.98
%
0.97
%
0.73
%
0.56
%
0.45
%
0.90
%
0.66
%
Real estate-residential
0.83
%
0.56
%
0.15
%
0.27
%
0.95
%
0.51
%
0.65
%
Installment
0.47
%
0.58
%
(0.16
)%
0.64
%
0.49
%
0.29
%
0.91
%
Home equity
0.57
%
1.07
%
0.28
%
2.07
%
0.43
%
0.64
%
0.61
%
All other
2.46
%
2.68
%
4.09
%
6.26
%
5.05
%
3.03
%
5.46
%
Total net charge-offs
0.96
%
0.83
%
0.61
%
1.39
%
0.97
%
0.80
%
1.23
%

30




While First Financial is seeing isolated areas of improvement, overall weakness in both the commercial and consumer sectors continues to exist in its strategic markets.  Given the continued challenging environment, the Company intends to remain proactive in identifying and managing individual credit situations.

Allowance for loan and lease losses (covered loans)

Substantially all loans acquired in the 2009 Peoples and Irwin acquisitions were covered by loss sharing agreements with the FDIC, whereby the FDIC reimburses First Financial for the majority of the losses incurred.  These loans were recorded at their estimated fair value upon acquisition.  Generally the determination of the fair value of the loans resulted in a significant write-down in the value of the loans, which was assigned to an accretable or nonaccretable balance, with the accretable balance being recognized as interest income over the remaining term of the loan. In accordance with accounting for business combinations, there was no allowance brought forward on any of the acquired loans, as the credit losses evident in the loans were included in the determination of the fair value of the loans at the acquisition date and are generally represented by the nonaccretable balance.  The majority of the nonaccretable balance is expected to be received from the FDIC through the loss sharing agreements and is recorded as a separate indemnification asset from the covered loans and reflected on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

The majority of covered loans are accounted for under FASB ASC Topic 310-30, whereby First Financial is required to periodically re-estimate the expected cash flows on the loans. For purposes of applying the guidance under FASB ASC Topic 310-30, First Financial grouped acquired loans into pools based on common risk characteristics. A decline in expected cash flows for a pool of loans is referred to as impairment and recorded as provision expense, and a related allowance for loan and lease losses on covered loans, on a discounted basis during the period.  Estimated reimbursements due from the FDIC under loss share agreements related to any declines in expected loan cash flows are recorded as noninterest income and an increase to the FDIC indemnification asset in the same period.  Improvement in expected cash flows for a pool of loans, once any previously recorded impairment is recaptured, is recognized prospectively as an adjustment to the yield on the loans in the pool and a related adjustment to the yield on the FDIC indemnification asset. These cash flow evaluations are inherently subjective as they require material estimates, all of which may be susceptible to significant change. First Financial recognized provision expense related to impairment in the expected cash flows on certain covered loans, as well as enhanced yields reflecting improved cash flow expectations on other covered loans during the first nine months of 2011.

First Financial established an allowance for loan losses associated with covered loans during 2010 based on its valuation procedures performed during the period.  The Company continued to update its valuations related to loans covered under loss share agreements during the third quarter of 2011 and, as a result of impairment in certain loan pools, recognized total provision expense of $7.3 million and realized net charge-offs of $10.2 million during the quarter, resulting in an allowance for covered loan losses of $48.1 million as of September 30, 2011 . For the first nine months of 2011, the Company recognized total provision expense of $57.2 million and realized net charge-offs of $25.6 million .  Additionally, the Company recognized loss share expenses of $10.3 million for the first nine months of 2011 and $3.8 million for the third quarter of 2011 primarily related to losses on covered OREO during the period.  The receivable due from the FDIC under loss share agreements related to the covered provision expense and losses on covered OREO of $53.5 million for the first nine months of 2011 and $8.4 million for the third quarter of 2011 was recognized as FDIC loss sharing income and a corresponding increase to the FDIC indemnification asset.

For the third quarter of 2010, First Financial recognized provision expense on covered loans of $20.7 million and realized net charge-offs of $10.4 million during the period.  For the first nine months of 2010, the Company recognized provision expense of $49.1 million and realized net charge-offs of $37.6 million .  The related receivable due from the FDIC under loss share agreements related to these loans of $17.8 million and $40.5 million for the third quarter and first nine months, respectively, was recognized as FDIC loss sharing income and a corresponding increase to the FDIC indemnification asset.


31



Three Months Ended
Nine Months Ended
2011
2010
September 30,
(Dollars in thousands)
Sep. 30,
Jun. 30,
Mar. 31,
Dec. 31,
Sep. 30,
2011
2010
Balance at beginning of period
$
51,044

$
31,555

$
16,493

$
11,583

$
1,273

$
16,493

$
0

Provision for loan and lease losses
7,260

23,895

26,016

13,997

20,725

57,171

49,147

Loans charged-off
(10,609
)
(7,456
)
(14,026
)
(9,351
)
(10,492
)
(32,091
)
(37,641
)
Recoveries
417

3,050

3,072

264

77

6,539

77

Ending allowance for covered loan losses
$
48,112

$
51,044

$
31,555

$
16,493

$
11,583

$
48,112

$
11,583


Nonperforming/Underperforming Assets (excluding covered assets)

Nonperforming loans totaled $76.4 million and nonperforming assets totaled $88.4 million as of September 30, 2011 compared with $79.9 million and $97.8 million, respectively, at December 31, 2010 and $79.5 million and $97.8 million, respectively, at September 30, 2010 .  The decrease in nonperforming assets relative to December 31, 2010 was driven primarily by a reduction in nonaccrual and restructured loans, as well as a decrease in OREO.  The declines in nonaccrual and restructured loans primarily related to the commercial and commercial real estate portfolios and included the effect of net charge-off activity discussed above and other resolution strategies which more than offset the additions.

The third quarter 2011 allowance for loan and lease losses as a percent of nonaccrual loans was 92.2% compared with 91.9% at December 31, 2010, and 86.5% in the third quarter of 2010, and the allowance for loan and lease losses as a percent of nonperforming loans was 71.4% at September 30, 2011 , compared with 71.6% at December 31, 2010, and 72.0% in the third quarter of 2010.

Total classified assets as of September 30, 2011 totaled $172.6 million as compared to $202.1 million at December 31, 2010. Classified assets, which have declined five consecutive quarters, are defined by the Company as nonperforming assets plus performing loans internally rated substandard or worse.

Restructured Loans

Restructured loans at September 30, 2011 decreased $0.3 million from December 31, 2010 and increased $3.9 million from September 30, 2010 .  The increase over the comparable quarter was due primarily to the restructuring of a single commercial relationship totaling $9.3 million, partially offset by the sale of a $4.9 million restructured loan, both during the fourth quarter of 2010.  Restructured loans remain on nonaccrual status until the borrower demonstrates the ability to comply with the modified terms.

Delinquent Loans

Loans 30-to-89 days past due totaled $19.5 million, or 0.66% of period end loans, as of September 30, 2011 . This compares to $22.3 million, or 0.79%, as of December 31, 2010. The decline in loans 30-to-89 days past due compared to December 31, 2010 resulted from reduced delinquencies in the residential and commercial real estate portfolios, offset by an increase in commercial delinquencies.

Other Real Estate Owned

At September 30, 2011 , OREO originating from uncovered loans was $12.0 million, compared with $17.9 million at December 31, 2010. The $5.9 million decline in OREO was primarily due to a $3.1 million reduction in value during the first quarter of 2011 related to vacant land obtained from a commercial real estate developer and the subsequent sale of this same property during the third quarter of 2011. The property had a book value of $3.4 million at the time of sale and the sale resulted in a $0.3 million gain to First Financial.

OREO originating from covered loans was $42.8 million at September 30, 2011 , compared with $35.3 million at December 31, 2010.

The table that follows shows the categories that are included in nonperforming and underperforming assets, excluding covered assets, as of September 30, 2011 , and the four previous quarters, as well as related credit quality ratios.

32




Quarter Ended
2011
2010
(Dollars in thousands)
Sep. 30,
June 30,
Mar. 31,
Dec. 31,
Sep. 30,
Nonaccrual loans
Commercial
$
10,792

$
9,811

$
9,918

$
13,729

$
17,320

Real estate - construction
13,844

13,237

14,199

12,921

13,454

Real estate - commercial
26,408

26,213

30,846

28,342

27,945

Real estate - residential
5,507

4,564

4,419

4,607

4,801

Installment
322

335

262

150

279

Home equity
2,277

2,376

2,404

2,553

2,358

Total nonaccrual loans
59,150

56,536

62,048

62,302

66,157

Restructured loans
17,283

17,482

18,532

17,613

13,365

Total nonperforming loans
76,433

74,018

80,580

79,915

79,522

Other real estate owned (OREO)
12,003

16,313

14,953

17,907

18,305

Total nonperforming assets
88,436

90,331

95,533

97,822

97,827

Accruing loans past due 90 days or more
235

149

241

370

233

Total underperforming assets
$
88,671

$
90,480

$
95,774

$
98,192

$
98,060

Allowance for loan and lease losses to



Nonaccrual loans
92.20
%
94.93
%
86.46
%
91.87
%
86.54
%
Nonperforming loans
71.35
%
72.51
%
66.57
%
71.62
%
71.99
%
Total ending loans
1.86
%
1.92
%
1.93
%
2.03
%
2.07
%
Nonperforming loans to total loans
2.60
%
2.65
%
2.90
%
2.84
%
2.88
%
Nonperforming assets to








Ending loans, plus OREO
3.00
%
3.22
%
3.42
%
3.45
%
3.51
%
Total assets, including covered assets
1.40
%
1.50
%
1.51
%
1.57
%
1.59
%

MARKET RISK

Market risk is the risk of loss arising from adverse changes in the fair value of financial instruments due to changes in interest rates, foreign exchange rates, and equity prices. The primary source of market risk for First Financial is interest-rate risk. Interest-rate risk is the risk to earnings and equity value arising from changes in market interest rates and arises in the normal course of business to the extent that there is a divergence between the amount of First Financial’s interest-earning assets and the amount of interest-bearing liabilities that are prepaid/withdrawn, re-price, or mature in specified periods. First Financial seeks to achieve consistent growth in net interest income and equity while managing volatility arising from shifts in market interest rates. First Financial’s board of directors establishes policy limits with respect to interest rate risk and changes in the economic value of equity. First Financial’s Asset and Liability Committee (ALCO) oversees market risk management, monitoring risk measures, limits, and policy guidelines for managing the amount of interest-rate risk and its effect on net interest income and capital.

Interest rate risk management is an active process that encompasses monitoring loan and deposit flows complemented by investment and funding activities. Effective interest rate risk management begins with understanding the dynamic characteristics of assets and liabilities and determining the appropriate interest rate risk position given business activities, management objectives, market expectations and ALCO policy limits and guidelines.

Liquidity

Liquidity management is the process by which First Financial manages the continuing flow of funds necessary to meet its financial commitments on a timely basis and at a reasonable cost.  These funding commitments include withdrawals by depositors, credit commitments to borrowers, shareholder dividends, expenses of its operations, and capital expenditures.  Liquidity is monitored and closely managed by ALCO, a group of senior officers from the lending, deposit gathering, finance, risk management, and treasury areas. It is ALCO’s responsibility to ensure First Financial has the necessary level of funds available for normal operations as well as maintain a contingency funding policy to ensure that liquidity stress events are quickly identified, and management plans are in place to respond.  This is accomplished through the use of policies

33



which establish limits and require measurements to monitor liquidity trends, including modeling and management reporting that identifies the amounts and costs of all available funding sources.  These sources are periodically tested for funding availability.

Liquidity is derived primarily from deposit growth, principal and interest payments on loans and investment securities, maturing loans and investment securities, access to wholesale funding sources, and collateralized borrowings.  First Financial’s most stable source of liability-funded liquidity for both long and short-term needs is deposit growth and retention of the core deposit base.  The deposit base is diversified among individuals, partnerships, corporations, public entities, and geographic markets.  This diversification helps First Financial minimize dependence on large concentrations of funding sources.

First Financial Bank received $190.7 million of cash upon closing of the Liberty transaction during the third quarter of 2011. The Company believes this provides sufficient liquidity to fund any runoff of deposits assumed in the transaction.

Capital expenditures, such as banking center expansions and technology investments, were $9.7 million and $17.0 million for the first nine months of 2011 and 2010, respectively. First Financial also acquired $3.8 million of fixed assets at estimated fair value as part of the Liberty transaction in the third quarter of 2011. Management believes that First Financial has sufficient liquidity to fund its future capital expenditure commitments.

As of September 30, 2011 , First Financial had pledged certain eligible residential and farm real estate loans, home equity lines of credit, as well as certain government and agency securities, totaling $1.1 billion as collateral for borrowings to the FHLB.  For ease of borrowing execution, First Financial utilizes a blanket collateral agreement with the FHLB.

From time to time, First Financial utilizes its short-term line of credit and longer-term advances from the FHLB as funding sources.  At both September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, the Company had no short-term borrowings from the FHLB.  At September 30, 2011 , and December 31, 2010, total long-term borrowings from the FHLB were $11.9 million and $63.9 million , respectively.  The total remaining borrowing capacity from the FHLB at September 30, 2011, was $367.2 million .

The principal source of asset-funded liquidity is marketable investment securities, particularly those of shorter maturities. The market value of investment securities classified as available-for-sale totaled $1.1 billion at September 30, 2011 .  Securities classified as held-to-maturity that are maturing within a short period of time are also a source of liquidity and totaled $0.3 million at September 30, 2011 .  In addition, other types of assets such as cash and due from banks, federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell, as well as loans maturing within one year, are sources of liquidity.

At September 30, 2011 , in addition to liquidity on hand of $477.4 million , First Financial had unused and available overnight wholesale funding of approximately $2.5 billion (or approximately 39.2% of total assets) to fund significant deposit runoff that may occur as a result of the repriced deposits and from the markets that the Company is exiting as well as general corporate requirements.

Certain restrictions exist regarding the ability of First Financial’s subsidiaries to transfer funds to First Financial in the form of cash dividends, loans, other assets, or advances.  The approval of the subsidiaries’ respective primary federal regulators is required for First Financial’s subsidiaries to pay dividends in excess of regulatory limitations.  Dividends paid to First Financial from its subsidiaries totaled $32.5 million for the first nine months of 2011.  As of September 30, 2011 , First Financial’s subsidiaries had retained earnings of $347.1 million of which $211.5 million was available for distribution to First Financial.  Additionally, First Financial had $111.8 million in cash as of September 30, 2011 , which is approximately three times the Company’s annual base shareholder dividend (currently $0.48 per share) and operating expenses. Management is not aware of any other events or regulatory requirements that, if implemented, are likely to have a material effect on First Financial’s liquidity.

Until its prepayment during the second quarter 2011, First Financial made quarterly interest payments on its junior subordinated debenture owed to its unconsolidated subsidiary trust.  On June 30, 2011, the trust preferred security was redeemed. Therefore, for the third quarter of 2011, there was no interest expense associated with the junior subordinated debenture.  Interest expense related to this other long-term debt totaled $0.3 million for the three months ended September 30, 2010 . Interest expense was $0.4 million and $1.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2011 , and 2010, respectively.

During the first quarter of 2010, First Financial made a $1.1 million cash quarterly dividend payment to the U.S. Treasury on the 80,000 perpetual preferred securities, which carried a 5.0% dividend rate for the first five years and a 9.0% rate thereafter. On February 24, 2010, First Financial Bancorp redeemed all of the $80.0 million of senior preferred shares issued to the U.S. Treasury in December 2008 under its Capital Purchase Program (CPP). First Financial included in its computation of earnings per diluted common share the impact of a non-cash, deemed dividend of $0.8 million, representing the unaccreted preferred stock discount remaining on the transaction date. This one-time deemed dividend was in addition to the first quarter 2010

34



preferred cash dividends paid through the redemption date.

First Financial had no share repurchase activity under publicly announced plans in 2011 or 2010.


CAPITAL

First Financial and its subsidiary, First Financial Bank, are subject to regulatory capital requirements administered by federal banking agencies.  Capital adequacy guidelines and, additionally for banks, prompt corrective action regulations involve quantitative measures of assets, liabilities, and certain off-balance sheet items calculated under regulatory accounting practices.  Capital amounts and classifications are also subject to qualitative judgments by regulators.  Failure to meet minimum capital requirements can initiate regulatory action.

Consolidated regulatory capital ratios at September 30, 2011 , included the leverage ratio of 10.87% , Tier 1 ratio of 18.81% , and total capital ratio of 20.08% .  All regulatory capital ratios exceeded the amounts necessary to be classified as “well capitalized,” and total regulatory capital exceeded the “minimum” requirement by approximately $425.1 million , on a consolidated basis.  First Financial’s tangible common equity ratio increased to 10.38% at September 30, 2011 as compared to 10.33% at December 31, 2010.

Quantitative measures established by regulation to ensure capital adequacy require First Financial to maintain minimum amounts and ratios (as defined by the regulations and set forth in the following table) of Total and Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets and to average assets, respectively.  Management believes, as of September 30, 2011 , that First Financial met all capital adequacy requirements to which it was subject.  At September 30, 2011 , and December 31, 2010, regulatory notifications categorized First Financial as well-capitalized under the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action.  To be categorized as well-capitalized, First Financial must maintain minimum Total risk-based, Tier 1 risk-based, and Tier 1 leverage ratios as set forth in the table.  There have been no conditions or events since those notifications that management believes has changed the institution’s category.

First Financial’s Tier I capital is comprised of total shareholders’ equity and prior to June 30, 2011 included its junior subordinated debentures, less unrealized gains and losses on investment securities available-for-sale accounted for under FASB ASC Topic 320, Investments-Debt and Equity Securities, and any amounts resulting from the application of FASB ASC Topic 715, Compensation-Retirement Benefits, that is recorded within accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), intangible assets, and any valuation related to mortgage servicing rights.  Total risk-based capital consists of Tier I capital plus qualifying allowance for loan and lease losses and gross unrealized gains on equity securities.

For purposes of calculating the leverage ratio, average assets represents quarterly average assets less assets not qualifying for Total risk-based capital including intangibles and non-qualifying mortgage servicing rights and allowance for loan and lease losses.

On April 28, 2011, First Financial filed a shelf registration on Form S-3 with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).  This shelf registration allows First Financial to raise capital from time to time through the sale of various types of securities, subject to approval by the Company’s board of directors.

The following table illustrates the actual and required capital amounts and ratios as of September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010.


35



Actual
For Capital
Adequacy Purposes
To Be Well
Capitalized Under
Prompt Corrective
Action Provisions
(Dollars in thousands)
Amount
Ratio
Amount
Ratio
Amount
Ratio
September 30, 2011
Total capital to risk-weighted assets
Consolidated
$
706,570

20.08
%
$
281,442

8.00
%
N/A

N/A

First Financial Bank
601,417

17.13
%
280,813

8.00
%
$
351,016

10.00
%
Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets





Consolidated
661,838

18.81
%
140,721

4.00
%
N/A

N/A

First Financial Bank
549,205

15.65
%
140,406

4.00
%
210,610

6.00
%
Tier 1 capital to average assets



Consolidated
661,838

10.87
%
243,546

4.00
%
N/A

N/A

First Financial Bank
549,205

9.03
%
243,217

4.00
%
304,021

5.00
%

Actual
For Capital
Adequacy Purposes
To Be Well
Capitalized Under
Prompt Corrective
Action Provisions
(Dollars in thousands)
Amount
Ratio
Amount
Ratio
Amount
Ratio
December 31, 2010
Total capital to risk-weighted assets
Consolidated
$
727,252

19.72
%
$
294,978

8.00
%
N/A

N/A

First Financial Bank
600,911

16.36
%
293,930

8.00
%
367,412

10.00
%
Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets



Consolidated
680,145

18.45
%
147,489

4.00
%
N/A

N/A

First Financial Bank
546,726

14.88
%
146,965

4.00
%
220,447

6.00
%
Tier 1 capital to average assets



Consolidated
680,145

10.89
%
248,847

4.00
%
N/A

N/A

First Financial Bank
546,726

8.75
%
248,437

4.00
%
310,546

5.00
%

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

First Financial’s Consolidated Financial Statements are prepared based on the application of accounting policies.  These policies require the reliance on estimates and assumptions.  Changes in underlying factors, assumptions, or estimates in any of these areas could have a material impact on First Financial’s future financial condition and results of operations. In management’s opinion, some of these areas have a more significant impact than others on First Financial’s financial reporting.  For First Financial, these areas currently include accounting for the allowance for loan and lease losses, covered loans,  FDIC indemnification asset, goodwill, pension and income taxes.  These accounting policies are discussed in detail in Management’s Discussion and Analysis – Critical Accounting Policies on pages 27 – 28 of First Financial’s 2010 Annual Report.  There were no material changes to these accounting policies during the nine months ended 2011.

ACCOUNTING AND REGULATORY MATTERS

Note 2 to the Consolidated Financial Statements discusses new accounting standards adopted by First Financial during 2011 and the expected impact of accounting standards recently issued but not yet required to be adopted.  To the extent the adoption of new accounting standards materially affects financial condition, results of operations, or liquidity, the impacts are discussed

36



in the applicable section(s) of Management’s Discussion and Analysis and the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

Certain statements contained in this news release which are not statements of historical fact constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act (the Act).  In addition, certain statements in future filings by First Financial with the SEC, in press releases, and in oral and written statements made by or with the approval of First Financial which are not statements of historical fact constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Act.  Examples of forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, projections of revenues, income or loss, earnings or loss per share, the payment or non-payment of dividends, capital structure and other financial items, statements of plans and objectives of First Financial or its management or board of directors, and statements of future economic performances and statements of assumptions underlying such statements.  Words such as ‘‘believes’’, ‘‘anticipates’’, “likely”, “expected”, ‘‘intends’’, and other similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements but are not the exclusive means of identifying such statements.  Management’s analysis contains forward-looking statements that are provided to assist in the understanding of anticipated future financial performance.  However, such performance involves risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially.  Factors that could cause actual results to differ from those discussed in the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to:

management’s ability to effectively execute its business plan;
the risk that the strength of the United States economy in general and the strength of the local economies in which we conduct operations may continue to deteriorate resulting in, among other things, a further deterioration in credit quality or a reduced demand for credit, including the resultant effect on our loan portfolio, allowance for loan and lease losses and overall financial performance;
the effects of the potential delay or failure of the U.S. federal government to pay its debts as they become due or make payments in the ordinary course;
the ability of financial institutions to access sources of liquidity at a reasonable cost;
the impact of recent upheaval in the financial markets and the effectiveness of domestic and international governmental actions taken in response, such as the U.S. Treasury’s TARP and the FDIC’s Temporary Liquidity Guarantee Program, and the effect of such governmental actions on us, our competitors and counterparties, financial markets generally and availability of credit specifically, and the U.S. and international economies, including potentially higher FDIC premiums arising from increased payments from FDIC insurance funds as a result of depository institution failures;
the effect of and changes in policies and laws or regulatory agencies (notably the recently enacted Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act);
inflation and possible changes in interest rates;
our ability to keep up with technological changes;
our ability to comply with the terms of loss sharing agreements with the FDIC;
mergers and acquisitions, including costs or difficulties related to the integration of acquired companies and the wind-down of non-strategic operations that may be greater than expected, such as the previous activities of Irwin Union Bank & Trust Company and its former affiliates, including the risks and uncertainties associated with the Irwin Mortgage Corporation bankruptcy proceedings;
the risk that exploring merger and acquisition opportunities may detract from management’s time and ability to successfully manage our company;
expected cost savings in connection with the consolidation of recent acquisitions may not be fully realized or realized within the expected time frames, and deposit attrition, customer loss and revenue loss following completed acquisitions may be greater than expected;
our ability to increase market share and control expenses;
the effect of changes in accounting policies and practices, as may be adopted by the regulatory agencies as well as the Financial Accounting Standards Board and the SEC;
adverse changes in the securities and debt markets;
our success in recruiting and retaining the necessary personnel to support business growth and expansion and maintain sufficient expertise to support increasingly complex products and services;
monetary and fiscal policies of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (Federal Reserve) and the U.S. government and other governmental initiatives affecting the financial services industry;
our ability to manage loan delinquency and charge-off rates and changes in estimation of the adequacy of the

37



allowance for loan losses; and
the costs and effects of litigation and of unexpected or adverse outcomes in such litigation.

Such forward-looking statements are meaningful only on the date when such statements are made, and First Financial undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which such a statement is made to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.


38



ITEM 3.          QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

Market risk is the risk of loss arising from adverse changes in the fair value of financial instruments due to changes in interest rates, foreign exchange rates, and equity prices. The primary source of market risk for First Financial is interest-rate risk. Interest-rate risk is the risk to earnings and equity value arising from changes in market interest rates and arises in the normal course of business to the extent that there is a divergence between the amount of First Financial’s interest-earning assets and the amount of interest-bearing liabilities that are prepaid/withdrawn, re-price, or mature in specified periods. First Financial seeks to achieve consistent growth in net interest income and equity while managing volatility arising from shifts in market interest rates. First Financial’s board of directors establishes policy limits with respect to interest rate risk. First Financial’s Asset and Liability Committee (ALCO) oversees market risk management, monitoring risk measures, limits, and policy guidelines for managing the amount of interest-rate risk and its effect on net interest income and capital.

Interest-rate risk for First Financial’s Consolidated Balance Sheets consists of repricing, option, and basis risks.  Repricing risk results from differences in the maturity, or repricing, of interest-bearing assets and liabilities.  Option risk in financial instruments arises from embedded options such as loan prepayments, early withdrawal of certificates of deposits, and calls on investments and debt instruments that are primarily driven by third party or client behavior.  Basis risk refers to the potential for changes in the underlying relationship between market rates or indices, which subsequently result in a narrowing of the net interest margin.  Basis risk is also present in managed rate liabilities, such as interest-bearing checking accounts and savings accounts, where historical pricing relationships to market rates may change due to the level or directional change in market interest rates, or competitive pressures.

The interest rate risk position is measured and monitored using income simulation models and economic value of equity sensitivity analysis that capture both short-term and long-term interest rate risk exposure.  Income simulation involves forecasting net interest income under a variety of interest rate scenarios including instantaneous shocks.

Presented below is the estimated impact on First Financial’s net interest income as of September 30, 2011 , assuming immediate, parallel shifts in interest rates:

-200 basis points
-100 basis points
+100 basis points
+200 basis points
September 30, 2011
(10.73
)%
(4.85
)%
1.49
%
5.87
%

Modeling the sensitivity of net interest income and the economic value of equity to changes in market interest rates is highly dependent on the assumptions incorporated into the modeling process.  These assumptions are periodically reviewed in the context of balance sheet changes, product offerings, external economic factors and anticipated client behavior.  In the first quarter of 2011, First Financial completed an update to its core deposit product repricing and retention formulas, as well as average life estimates, used in its interest rate risk modeling.  The Company employed linear regression analysis in developing these updated components while utilizing an average of various predominant industry approaches to arrive at updated average life estimates.  Using these updated assumptions, First Financial’s projected results for earnings at risk and long-term economic value of equity indicate the Company remains in an asset sensitive position, which is consistent with results from the previous method employed.  First Financial continues to refine the assumptions used in its interest rate risk modeling.

The interest rate risk analysis provides a framework as to what First Financial's overall sensitivity is as of the Company's most recent reported position. Management strategies may impact future reporting periods, as our actual results may differ from simulated results due to the timing, magnitude, and frequency of interest rate changes, the difference between actual experience, and the characteristics assumed, as well as changes in market conditions.  Market based prepayment speeds are factored into the analysis for loan and securities portfolios.  Rate sensitivity for transactional deposit accounts is modeled based on both historical experience and external industry studies. Due to the current low interest rate environment, funding rates on deposit and wholesale funding instruments were not reduced below 0.0% in the down 200 and down 100 basis points scenarios.

First Financial uses economic value of equity sensitivity analysis to understand the impact of changes in interest rates on long-term cash flows, income, and capital.  Economic value of equity is based on discounting the cash flows for all balance sheet instruments under different interest-rate scenarios.  Deposit premiums are based on external industry studies and utilizing historical experience.  Presented below is the change in First Financial’s economic value of equity position as of September 30, 2011 , assuming immediate, parallel shifts in interest rates:


39



-200 basis points
-100 basis points
+100 basis points
+200 basis points
September 30, 2011
(20.46
)%
(7.44
)%
8.34
%
11.70
%

First Financial, utilizing interest rates primarily based upon external industry studies, models additional scenarios covering the next twelve months.  Based on these scenarios, First Financial has a relatively neutral rate risk position of a positive 1.24% when compared to a base-case scenario with interest rates held constant.  Given its outlook for future interest rates, First Financial is managing its balance sheet with a bias toward asset sensitivity.

See also “Item 2-Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Net Interest Income.”

ITEM 4.   CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Disclosure Controls and Procedures
Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining effective disclosure controls and procedures, as defined under Rule 13a-15 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, that are designed to cause the material information required to be disclosed by First Financial in the reports it files or submits under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 to be recorded, processed, summarized, and reported to the extent applicable within the time periods required by the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms.  In designing and evaluating the disclosure controls and procedures, management recognized that a control system, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the control system are met.  Because of the inherent limitations in all control systems, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, within a company have been detected.

As of the end of the period covered by this report, First Financial performed an evaluation under the supervision and with the participation of management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of its disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Rule 13a-15 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.  Based upon that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the disclosure controls and procedures were effective at the reasonable assurance level.

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
No changes were made to the Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) during the last fiscal quarter that materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting.


40



PART II-OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.
Legal Proceedings.
For information concerning legal proceedings, see "Part I - Item 3. Legal Proceedings" in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010 and in "Part II - Other Information - Item 1. Legal Proceedings" in the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2011.





Item 1A.
Risk Factors.
There are a number of factors that may adversely affect the Company's business, financial results, or stock price. See "Risk Facotrs" as disclosed in response to "Item 1A. to Part I - Risk Factors" of Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010 and "Part II - Other Information - Item 1A. Risk Factors" of Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2011.


41



Item 2.
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

(c)
The following table shows the total number of shares repurchased in the third quarter of 2011.

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
Period
Total Number
Of Shares
Purchased (1)
Average
Price Paid
Per Share
Total Number of
Shares Purchased as
Part of Publicly
Announced Plans (2)
Maximum Number of
Shares that may yet
be purchased Under
the Plans
July 1 to July 31, 2011



Share repurchase program
0

$
0.00

0

4,969,105

Director Fee Stock Plan
1,836

16.87

NA

NA

Stock Plans
0

0.00

NA

NA

August 1 to August 31, 2011




Share repurchase program
0

$
0.00

0

4,969,105

Director Fee Stock Plan
0

0.00

NA

NA

Stock Plans
0

0.00

NA

NA

September 1 to September 30, 2011




Share repurchase program
0

$
0.00

0

4,969,105

Director Fee Stock Plan
0

0.00

NA

NA

Stock Plans
0

0.00

NA

NA

Total




Share repurchase program
0

$
0.00

0


Director Fee Stock Plan
1,836

$
16.87

NA


Stock Plans
0

$
0.00

NA



(1)
The number of shares purchased in column (a) and the average price paid per share in column (b) include the purchase of shares other than through publicly announced plans.  The shares purchased other than through publicly announced plans were purchased pursuant to First Financial’s Director Fee Stock Plan, 1999 Stock Option Plan for Non-Employee Directors, 1999 Stock Incentive Plan for Officers and Employees, 2009 Employee Stock Plan, and 2009 Non-Employee Director Stock Plan.  (The last four plans are referred to hereafter as the Stock Plans.)  The table shows the number of shares purchased pursuant to those plans and the average price paid per share.  The purchases for the Director Fee Stock Plan were made in open-market transactions.  Under the Stock Plans, shares were purchased from plan participants at the then current market value in satisfaction taxes owed for vested shares/options.
(2)
First Financial has one remaining previously announced stock repurchase plan under which it is currently authorized to purchase shares of its common stock.  The plan has no expiration date.  The table that follows provides additional information regarding this plan.  No shares were repurchased under this plan in 2011.

Announcement
Date
Total Shares
Approved for
Repurchase
Total Shares
Repurchased
Under
the Plan
Expiration
Date
1/25/2000
7,507,500

2,538,395

None


42



Item 6.         Exhibits

(a)
Exhibits:
31.1
Certification by Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 filed herewith.
31.2
Certification by Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 filed herewith.
32.1
Certification of Periodic Financial Report by Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 furnished herewith.
101.1
Financial statements from the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of the Company for the quarter ended June 30, 2011, formatted in XBRL: (i) Consolidated Balance Sheets, (ii) Consolidated Statements of Income, (iii) Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, (iv) Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity, and (v) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, as blocks of text and in detail*.

First Financial will furnish, without charge, to a security holder upon request a copy of the documents and will furnish any other Exhibit upon payment of reproductions costs.  Unless as otherwise noted, documents incorporated by reference involve File No. 000-12379.

*
As provided in Rule 406T of Regulation S-T, this information shall not be deemed “filed” for purposes of Section 11 and 12 of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 or otherwise subject to liability under those sections.



43



SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized.

FIRST FINANCIAL BANCORP.
(Registrant)
/s/ J. Franklin Hall
J. Franklin Hall
Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer
and Chief Operating Officer
(Principal Accounting Officer)
Date
11/8/2011


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TABLE OF CONTENTS