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

FORM 10-K
(Mark One)
 x  ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
           For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2008
                                                                                        OR
  o TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
           For the transition period from ____ to ____

Commission file number 0-16772
     
PEOPLES BANCORP INC.
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)
     
Ohio
 
31-0987416
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
 
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
     
138 Putnam Street, PO Box 738, Marietta, Ohio
 
 45750-0738
(Address of principal executive offices)
 
(Zip Code)
     
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:
 
(740) 373-3155
     
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
   
 
Title of each class
 
Name of each exchange on which registered
 
Common shares, without par value
 
The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC
     
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
 
None

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.
Yes     o                  No  x
 
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.
 
Yes      o                 No  x
 
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 if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of Registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.   o
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company.  See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
 
Large accelerated
filer o
Accelerated filer x
Non-accelerated filer o
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
  Smaller reporting company o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).
Yes     o                  No  x
 
As of June 30, 2008, the aggregate market value of the Registrant’s Common Shares (the only common equity of the Registrant) held by non-affiliates was $182,062,000 based upon the closing price as reported on The NASDAQ Global Select Market.  For this purpose, executive officers and directors of the Registrant are considered affiliates.
 
Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the registrant’s classes of common stock, at March 2, 2009: 10,439,168 common shares, without par value.
 

 
Document Incorporated by Reference:
Portions of Registrant’s definitive Proxy Statement relating to the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held April 23, 2009, are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
   
     
 
 
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
   
     
     
     
 
 
     
     
     
   
     
     
     


 
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PART I

As used in this Annual Report on Form 10-K (“Form 10-K”), “Peoples” refers to Peoples Bancorp Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries collectively, except where the context indicates the reference relates solely to the registrant, Peoples Bancorp Inc.  Unless otherwise indicated, all note references contained in this Form 10-K refer to the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8 of this Form 10-K.

 
Corporate Overview
Peoples Bancorp Inc. is a financial holding company organized in 1980.  Peoples operates principally through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Peoples Bank, National Association (“Peoples Bank”).  At December 31, 2008, Peoples’ other wholly-owned subsidiaries included Peoples Investment Company and PEBO Capital Trust I.  Peoples Bank also owned Peoples Insurance Agency, Inc. (“Peoples Insurance”) and PBNA, L.L.C., an asset management company.  Peoples Investment Company also owned Peoples Capital Corporation.
 
Peoples Bank was first chartered in 1902 as an Ohio banking corporation under the name “The Peoples Banking and Trust Company” in Marietta, Ohio, and was later reorganized as a national banking association under its current name in 2000.  Peoples Insurance was first chartered in 1994 as an Ohio corporation under the name “Northwest Territory Property and Casualty Insurance Agency, Inc.” and awarded insurance agency powers in the State of Ohio in late 1995, becoming the first insurance agency in Ohio to be affiliated with a financial institution.  Peoples Insurance was reorganized under its current name in 2000.
 
 Peoples Investment Company and its subsidiary, Peoples Capital Corporation, were formed in 2001 to optimize Peoples’ consolidated capital position and improve profitability by providing new investment opportunities that are either limited or restricted at Peoples Bank.  These investments include, but are not limited to, low-income housing tax credit funds or projects, venture capital, and other higher risk investments.  Presently, the operations of both companies do not represent a significant part of Peoples’ overall business activities.
 
 
Business Overview
Peoples makes available a wide range of financial products and services to its customers through its financial service locations and automated teller machines (“ATMs”) in Ohio, West Virginia and Kentucky, as well as well as telephone and internet-based banking.  These products and services include the following:
 
o various demand deposit accounts, savings accounts, money market accounts and certificates of deposit
o commercial, consumer and real estate mortgage loans (both commercial and residential)
o debit cards
o credit cards through an affiliated marketing agreement
o corporate and personal trust services
o safe deposit rental facilities
o travelers checks, money orders and cashier’s checks
 
Peoples also offers a full range of life, health and property and casualty insurance products through Peoples Insurance and provides custom-tailored fiduciary and wealth management services, including asset management, recordkeeping, retirement services and estate management, through Peoples Financial Advisors (a division of Peoples Bank).  Brokerage services are offered exclusively through an unaffiliated registered broker-dealer located at Peoples Bank’s offices.
 
Since 1996, Peoples has undertaken a controlled and steady expansion strategy involving a combination of internal and external growth.  This strategy has included the opening of de novo banking and loan production offices, acquisitions of existing banking offices, both individually and as part of entire institutions, and acquisitions of two insurance agencies.  As a result, Peoples has experienced growth in total assets and its capital position, as well as expansion of its customer base and primary market area.  This strategy has also provided opportunities for Peoples to integrate non-traditional products and services, such as insurance and investments, with the traditional banking products being offered to its clients.
 
Since 2003, Peoples has taken steps to improve operating efficiency by redirecting resources to offices and markets with greater growth potential.  These actions have included the consolidation of existing banking offices with acquired offices that were in close proximity to each other and sale of selected banking offices.  During 2008, Peoples completed the sale of its Grayson, Kentucky banking office and its $13.4 million of deposits and $2.0 million of loans.   
 
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For the five-year period ended December 31, 2008, Peoples’ total assets and total stockholders’ equity grew at compound annual growth rates of 2.9% and 1.8%, respectively, while return on average assets and average stockholders’ equity averaged 0.94% and 9.30%, respectively, during this five-year period.  Peoples also has a history of dividend growth, with 2008 marking the 43rd consecutive year of increased dividends and a five-year compound annual growth rate of 7.1%.
 
 
Recent Corporate Developments
On November 12, 2008, Peoples received preliminary approval from the United States Department of the Treasury (the “U.S. Treasury”) for a capital investment of $39 million through the voluntary TARP Capital Purchase Program established by the U.S. Treasury under the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008.  At the time of this preliminary approval, Peoples was not authorized to issue preferred shares under its Amended Articles of Incorporation.  This investment, which represented 3% of Peoples’ total risk-weighted assets, was the maximum that Peoples was allowed to receive under the TARP Capital Purchase Program.
 
On January 22, 2009, Peoples’ shareholders adopted an amendment to Article FOURTH of Peoples’ Amended Articles of Incorporation to authorize the issuance of up to 50,000 preferred shares.  The preferred shares may be issued from time to time by Peoples’ Board of Directors in one or more series, with each series to consist of such number of shares and to have such voting powers, designations, preferences, rights, qualifications, limitations and restrictions as determined by the Board of Directors.  On January 28, 2009, Peoples’ Board of Directors adopted an amendment to Peoples’ Amended Articles of Incorporation to create a series of preferred shares designated as Peoples’ Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Shares, Series A, each without par value and having a liquidation preference of $1,000 per share (the “Series A Preferred Shares”).  These actions enabled Peoples to obtain final approval for the $39 million capital investment through the TARP Capital Purchase Program.
 
On January 30, 2009, Peoples issued and sold to the U.S. Treasury (i) 39,000 of Peoples’ Series A Preferred Shares, and (ii) a ten-year warrant (the “Warrant”) to purchase 313,505 Peoples common shares, each without par value (“Common Shares”), at an exercise price of $18.66 per share (subject to certain anti-dilution and other adjustments), for an aggregate purchase price of $39 million in cash.  This issuance and sale was a private placement exempt from the registration requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, pursuant to Section 4(2) thereof. Additional information regarding the Series A Preferred Shares and the Warrant can be found in Note 11 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
To finalize Peoples’ participation in the TARP Capital Purchase Program, Peoples entered into certain agreements with the U.S. Treasury.  Additional information regarding the TARP Capital Purchase Program and the restrictions imposed on Peoples can be found under the “TARP Capital Purchase Program” heading in the “Supervision and Regulation” section included later in this item.
 
 
Primary Market Area and Customers
Peoples considers its primary market area to consist of the counties where it has a physical presence and neighboring counties.  This market area currently includes the counties of Athens, Belmont, Fairfield, Franklin, Gallia, Guernsey, Meigs, Morgan, Noble and Washington in Ohio; Cabell, Mason, Wetzel and Wood in West Virginia; and Boyd, Carter and Greenup in Kentucky,.  This market area encompasses the Metropolitan Statistical Areas (“MSA”) of Parkersburg-Marietta-Vienna, WV-OH and Huntington-Ashland, WV-KY-OH, and portions of the Columbus OH and Wheeling, WV-OH MSAs.  This primary market area largely consists of rural or small urban areas with a diverse group of industries and employers.  Principal industries in this area include health care, education and other social services; plastics and petrochemical manufacturing; oil, gas and coal production; and tourism and other service-related industries.  Because of this diversity, Peoples is not dependent upon any single industry segment for its business opportunities.
 
 
Lending Activities
Peoples originates various types of loans, including commercial and commercial real estate loans, residential real estate loans, home equity lines of credit, real estate construction loans, and consumer loans.  In prior years, Peoples also originated and retained various credit card loans.  In 2003, Peoples sold its existing credit card portfolio and entered into a joint marketing alliance to serve the credit card needs of its customers and prospects, which reduces Peoples’ risks since it does not own the loans.
 
Peoples’ lending activities are focused principally on lending opportunities within its primary market areas, although Peoples occasionally originates loans to creditworthy customers outside its primary markets.  In general, Peoples retains the majority of loans it originates; however, certain longer-term fixed-rate mortgage loan originations, primarily one-to-four family residential mortgages, are sold into the secondary market.
 
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Peoples’ loans consist of credits to borrowers spread over a broad range of industrial classifications.  At December 31, 2008, Peoples had no concentration of loans to borrowers engaged in the same or similar industries that exceeded 10% of total loans nor had any loans outstanding to non-U.S. entities.
 
Legal Lending Limit
Federal regulations impose a limit on the aggregate amount that financial institutions may lend to one borrower, including certain related or affiliated borrowers.  This legal lending limit is generally 15% of the institution’s total capital, as defined by risk-based capital regulations, plus any allowance for loan losses not already included in total capital.  At December 31, 2008, Peoples’ legal lending limit was approximately $24.5 million.  During 2008, Peoples did not extend credit to any one borrower in excess of its legal lending limit.
 
Commercial Lending
Commercial, financial and agricultural loans (“commercial loans”), including loans secured by commercial real estate, represent the largest portion of Peoples’ total loan portfolio, comprising approximately 59.5% of total loans at December 31, 2008.  Commercial lending inherently involves a significant degree of risk of loss since commercial loan relationships generally involve larger loan balances than other loan classes.  Additionally, repayment of commercial loans normally depends on adequate cash flows of a business, which can be negatively impacted by adverse changes in the general economy or in a specific industry.
 
Commercial Lending Practices. Loan terms include amortization schedules commensurate with the purpose of each loan, the source of repayment and the risk involved.  The
               primary analytical technique used in determining whether to grant a commercial loan is the review of a schedule of cash flows to evaluate whether the borrower’s anticipated
               future cash flows will be adequate to service both interest and principal due.  Additionally, collateral is reviewed to determine its value in relation to the loan.
 
The Peoples Bank Board of Directors is required to approve loans secured by real estate in excess of $5 million, loans secured by all other assets in excess of $3 million, unsecured loans in excess of $1 million and all loans, regardless of amount, to borrowers whose aggregate debt to Peoples Bank, including the principal amount of the proposed loan, exceeds $7 million.
 
Peoples evaluates all commercial loan relationships whenever a new loan causes the aggregate debt to Peoples to exceed $250,000.  On an annual basis, Peoples evaluates all loan relationships whose aggregate debt to Peoples is greater than $500,000 for possible credit deterioration.  This gives Peoples the opportunity to take effective and prompt action designed to assure repayment of the loan or minimize Peoples’ risk of loss, including reviewing the relationship on a quarterly basis depending on the loan quality rating and aggregate debt outstanding.  Upon detection of the reduced ability of a borrower to meet cash flow obligations, the loan is reviewed for possible downgrading or placement on nonaccrual status.
 
Real Estate Loans
While commercial loans comprise the largest portion of Peoples’ loan portfolio, generating residential real estate loans remains a major focus of Peoples’ lending efforts, whether the loans are ultimately sold into the secondary market or retained on Peoples’ Consolidated Balance Sheets.  At December 31, 2008, portfolio real estate loans comprised 21.0% of total loans.  Peoples also had $0.8 million of real estate loans held for sale and was servicing $181.4 million of loans, consisting primarily of one-to-four family residential mortgages, previously sold in the secondary market.
 
Peoples originates both fixed-rate and adjustable-rate real estate loans.  Typically, the longer-term fixed-rate real estate loans are sold in the secondary market, with Peoples retaining servicing rights on those loans.  In select cases, Peoples may retain certain fixed-rate real estate loans or sell the loans without retaining the servicing rights.
 
        Real Estate Lending Practices. Peoples typically requires residential real estate loan amounts to be no more than 80% of the purchase price or the appraised value of the real
               estate securing the loan, unless private mortgage insurance is obtained by the borrower for the percentage exceeding 80%.  In certain circumstances, Peoples may lend up to
               100% of the appraised value of the real estate, although such lending currently is limited to loans that qualify under established rural housing programs.  The risk conditions of
               these loans are considered during underwriting for the purposes of establishing an interest rate commensurate with the risks inherent in mortgage lending and remaining equity
               of the home, if any.
 
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Real estate loans are typically secured by first mortgages with evidence of title in favor of Peoples in the form of an attorney’s opinion of the title or a title insurance policy.  Peoples also requires proof of hazard insurance, with Peoples named as the mortgagee and loss payee.  Licensed appraisals are required for all real estate loans.
 
Home Equity Lines of Credit
Peoples originates home equity lines of credit that provide consumers with greater flexibility in financing personal expenditures.  At December 31, 2008, home equity lines of credit comprised 4.3% of Peoples’ total loans.  Peoples offers home equity lines of credit with a fixed rate for the first five years which converts to a variable interest rate for the remaining five years.  Peoples also offers a home equity line of credit with a variable rate for the entire term of the loan.
 
         Home Equity Lending Practices. Home equity lines of credit are generally made as second mortgages by Peoples.  The maximum amount of a home equity line of credit is
                 generally limited to 80% of the appraised value of the property less the balance of the first mortgage.  Peoples will lend up to 90% of the appraised value of the property at
                 higher interest rates that are commensurate with the additional risk being assumed in these situations.  The home equity lines of credit are written with ten-year terms and are
                 subject to review upon request for renewal.  
 
Construction Loans
Peoples originates various construction loans to provide temporary financing during the construction phase for commercial and residential properties.  At December 31, 2008, construction loans comprised 7.1% of Peoples’ loan portfolio.  Construction financing is generally considered to involve the highest risk since Peoples is dependent largely upon the accuracy of the initial estimate of the property’s value at completion of construction and the estimated cost (including interest) of construction.  If the estimated construction cost proves to be inaccurate, Peoples may be required to advance funds beyond the amount originally committed to enable completion of the project.
 
         Construction Lending Practices. Peoples’ construction lending is focused primarily on single-family residential or owner-occupied commercial projects being constructed by
                  established contractors.  Peoples also originates other construction loans to select real estate developers and homebuilders for the purpose of constructing a variety of
                  commercial and residential projects, including office, retail or industrial complexes and land development.  The underwriting criteria for construction loans is generally the
                  same as for non-construction loans.
 
To mitigate the risk of construction lending, Peoples requires periodic site inspections by the construction loan manager, loan officer, appraiser or architect to ensure appropriate completion of the project prior to any disbursements.  Construction loans are structured to provide sufficient time to complete construction, including consideration for weather or other variables that influence completion time, although Peoples generally requires the term to be less than two years.
 
Consumer Lending
Peoples’ consumer lending activities primarily involve loans secured by automobiles, boats, recreational vehicles and other personal property.  At December 31, 2008, consumer loans comprised 7.9% of Peoples’ loan portfolio.
 
         Consumer Lending Practices. Consumer loans generally involve more risk as to collectability than real estate mortgage loans because of the type and nature of the collateral and,
                 in certain instances, the absence of collateral.  As a result, consumer-lending collections are dependent upon the borrower’s continued financial stability, and are at more risk
                 from adverse changes in personal circumstances.  In addition, application of various state and federal laws, including bankruptcy and insolvency laws, could limit the amount
                 that may be recovered under these loans.  Credit approval for consumer loans typically requires demonstration of sufficiency of income to repay principal and interest due, 
                 stability of employment, credit history and sufficient collateral for secured loans.  It is the policy of Peoples to review its consumer loan portfolio monthly and to charge-off
                 loans that do not meet its standards, and to adhere strictly to all laws and regulations governing consumer lending.  A qualified compliance officer is responsible for
                 monitoring regulatory compliance performance and for advising and updating loan personnel.
 
Peoples makes credit life insurance and accident and health insurance available to all qualified borrowers, thus reducing risk of loss when a borrower’s income is terminated or interrupted due to accident, disability or death.
 
Overdraft Privilege
Since 2001, Peoples has granted Overdraft Privilege to qualified customers.  Overdraft Privilege is a service that provides overdraft protection to retail deposit customers by establishing an Overdraft Privilege amount.  After a 30-day waiting period to verify deposit ability, each new checking account usually receives an Overdraft Privilege amount of either $400 or $700, based on the type of account and other parameters.  Once established, customers are permitted to overdraw their checking account, up to their Overdraft Privilege limit, with each item being charged Peoples’ regular overdraft fee.  Customers repay the overdraft with their next deposit.  Overdraft Privilege is designed to allow Peoples to fill the void between traditional overdraft protection, such as a line of credit, and “check cashing stores”.  While Overdraft Privilege generates fee income, Peoples maintains an allowance for losses from checking accounts with overdrafts deemed uncollectible.  This allowance, along with the related provision and net charge-offs, is included in Peoples’ allowance for loan losses.
 
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Investment Activities
Investment securities comprise a significant portion of Peoples’ total assets.  The majority of Peoples’ investment activities are conducted through Peoples Bank, although Peoples and its non-banking subsidiaries engage in investment activities from time-to-time.  Investment activity by Peoples Bank is subject to certain regulatory guidelines and limitations on the types of securities eligible for purchase.  As a result, the investment securities owned by Peoples Bank include obligations of the U.S. Treasury, agencies and corporations of the U.S. government, including mortgage-backed securities, bank eligible obligations of any state or political subdivision in the U.S. and bank eligible corporate obligations, including private-label mortgage-backed securities.  The investments owned by Peoples are comprised of common stocks issued by various unrelated banking holding companies and tax-exempt municipal obligations.  The investments owned by Peoples’ non-banking subsidiaries currently consist of tax credit funds and corporate obligations.
 
Peoples’ investment activities are governed internally by a written, board-approved policy, which is administered by Peoples’ Asset-Liability Management Committee (“ALCO”).  The primary purpose of Peoples’ investment portfolio is to: (1) employ excess funds not needed for loan demand; (2) provide a source of liquid assets to accommodate unanticipated deposit and loan fluctuations and overall liquidity needs; (3) provide eligible securities to secure public and trust funds; and (4) earn the maximum overall return commensurate with the investment’s risk and corporate needs.  Investment strategies to achieve these objectives are reviewed and approved by the ALCO.  In its evaluation of investment strategies, the ALCO considers various factors, including the interest rate environment, balance sheet mix, actual and anticipated loan demand, funding opportunities and Peoples’ overall interest rate sensitivity.  The ALCO also has much broader responsibilities, which are discussed in the “Interest Rate Sensitivity and Liquidity” section of “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” included in Item 7 of in this Form 10-K.
 
 
Funding Sources
Peoples’ primary sources of funds for lending and investing activities are interest-bearing and non-interest bearing deposits.  Cash flows from both the loan and investment portfolios, which include scheduled payments, as well as prepayments, calls and maturities, also provide a relatively stable source of funds.  Peoples also utilizes a variety of short-term and long-term borrowings to fund asset growth and satisfy liquidity needs.  Peoples’ funding sources are monitored and managed through Peoples’ asset-liability management process, which is discussed further in the “Interest Rate Sensitivity and Liquidity” section of “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Results of Operations and Financial Condition” included in Item 7 of this Form 10-K.
 
The following is a brief description of the various sources of funds utilized by Peoples:
 
Deposits
Peoples obtains deposits principally from individuals and businesses within its primary market area by offering a broad selection of deposit products to clients.  Retail deposit account terms vary with respect to the minimum balance required, the time the funds must remain on deposit and service charge schedules.  Interest rates paid on specific deposit types are determined based on (1) the interest rates offered by competitors, (2) the anticipated amount and timing of funding needs, (3) the availability and cost of alternative sources of funding and (4) the anticipated future economic conditions and interest rates.  Retail deposits are attractive sources of funding because of their stability and relative cost in addition to providing opportunities for Peoples to build long-term client relationships through the cross-selling of its other products and services.
 
 Peoples occasionally obtains deposits from clients outside Peoples’ primary market area through deposit brokers, generally in the form of certificates of deposit.  These brokered deposits are used to augment Peoples’ retail deposits to fund loans originated to customers located outside Peoples’ primary market area, as well as provide diversity in funding sources.  While brokered deposits normally carry a slightly higher interest cost than other wholesale funds, they do not require Peoples to secure the funds with collateral, unlike most other borrowed funds.
 
Additional information regarding the amounts and composition of Peoples’ deposits can be found in the “Deposits” section of “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Results of Operations and Financial Condition” included in Item 7 of this Form 10-K and in Note 7 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
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Borrowed Funds
Peoples obtains funds through a variety of short-term and long-term borrowings, which typically include advances from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Cincinnati (“FHLB”), Federal Funds purchased, advances from the Federal Reserve Discount Window and repurchase agreements.  Occasionally, Peoples obtains funds from unrelated financial institutions in the form of loans or revolving lines of credit.  Short-term borrowings are used generally to manage Peoples’ daily liquidity needs since they typically may be repaid, in whole or part, at any time without a penalty.  Long-term borrowings provide cost-effective options for funding asset growth and satisfying capital needs, due to the variety of pricing and maturity options available.
 
Additional information regarding the amounts and composition of Peoples’ borrowed funds can be found in the “Borrowed Funds” section of “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Results of Operations and Financial Condition” included in Item 7 of this Form 10-K and in Notes 8 and 9 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
Peoples has an established business trust subsidiary that was formed for the sole purpose of issuing preferred securities and investing the proceeds in junior subordinated debt securities of Peoples.  The trust preferred securities qualify as Tier 1 capital for regulatory capital purposes, subject to certain quantitative limits and qualitative standards, which makes them an attractive funding source for financial institutions.  Additional information can be found in Note 10 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
 
Competition
Peoples experiences intense competition within its primary market area due to the presence of several national, regional and local financial institutions and other service providers, including finance companies, insurance agencies and mutual funds.  Competition within the financial service industry continues to increase as a result of mergers between, and expansion of, financial service providers within and outside of Peoples’ primary market areas.  In addition, the deregulation of the financial services industry (see the discussion of the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act of 1999 in the section of this item captioned “Supervision and Regulation-Bank Holding Company Act”) has allowed securities firms and insurance companies that have elected to become financial holding companies to acquire commercial banks and other financial institutions, which can create additional competitive pressure.
 
Peoples primarily competes based on client service, convenience and responsiveness to customer needs, available products, rates of interest on loans and deposits, and the availability and pricing of trust, brokerage and insurance services.  However, some competitors may have greater resources and, as such, higher lending limits than Peoples, which adversely affects Peoples’ ability to compete.  Peoples’ business strategy includes the use of a “needs-based” sales and service approach to serve customers and incentives intended to promote customers’ continued use of multiple financial products and services.  In addition, Peoples continues to emphasize the integration of traditional commercial banking products with non-traditional financial products, such as insurance and investment products.
 
Peoples historically has focused on providing its full range of products and services in smaller metropolitan markets rather than major metropolitan areas.  While management believes Peoples has developed a level of expertise in serving the financial service needs of smaller communities, Peoples’ primary market area has expanded into larger metropolitan areas, like central Ohio.  These larger areas typically contain entrenched service providers with an existing customer base much larger than Peoples’ initial entry position.  As a result, Peoples may be forced to compete more aggressively in order to grow its market share in these areas, which could reduce current and future profit potential from such markets.
 
 
Employees
At December 31, 2008, Peoples had 546 full-time equivalent employees.
 
Intellectual Property and Proprietary Rights
Peoples has registered the service marks “Peoples Bank (with logo)”, “Peoples Bancorp (with logo)”, “Peoples Financial Advisors (with logo)”, “Connect Card”, “Peoples Bank” and “peoplesbancorp.com” with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.  These service marks currently have expiration dates ranging from 2014 to 2017.  Peoples may renew the registrations of service marks with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office generally for additional 10-year periods indefinitely, provided it continues to use the service marks and files appropriate maintenance and renewal documentation with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office at times required by the federal trademark laws and regulations.
 
Peoples has a proprietary interest in the Internet Domain name “pebo.com”.  Internet Domain names in the U.S. and in foreign countries are regulated, but the laws and regulations governing the Internet are continually evolving.
 
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Supervision and Regulation
Peoples and its subsidiaries are subject to extensive supervision and regulation by federal and state agencies.  The following is summary of the regulatory agencies, statutes and related regulations that have, or could have, a significant impact on Peoples’ business.  This discussion is qualified in its entirety by reference to such regulations and statutes.
 
Financial Holding Company
Peoples is a legal entity separate and distinct from its subsidiaries and affiliated companies.  As a financial holding company, Peoples is subject to regulation under the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended (the “BHC Act”), and to inspection, examination and supervision by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (the “Federal Reserve Board”).
 
The Federal Reserve Board also has extensive enforcement authority over financial holding companies.  In general, the Federal Reserve Board may initiate enforcement actions for violations of laws and regulations and unsafe or unsound practices.  Peoples is also required to file reports and other information with the Federal Reserve Board regarding its business operations and those of its subsidiaries.
 
Subsidiary Bank
Peoples Bank is subject to regulation and examination primarily by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (“OCC”) and secondarily by the Federal Reserve Board and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”).
 
Peoples Bank is subject to certain restrictions imposed by the Federal Reserve Act and Federal Reserve Board regulations regarding such matters as the maintenance of reserves against deposits, extensions of credit to the financial holding company or any of its subsidiaries, investments in the stock or other securities of the financial holding company or its subsidiaries and the taking of such stock or securities as collateral for loans to any borrower.
 
Non-Banking Subsidiaries
Peoples’ non-banking subsidiaries are also subject to regulation by the Federal Reserve Board and other applicable federal and state agencies.  Peoples Insurance, as a licensed insurance agency, is subject to regulation by the Ohio Department of Insurance and the state insurance regulatory agencies of those states where it may conduct business.
 
Other Regulatory Agencies
                Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and NASDAQ. Peoples is also under the jurisdiction of the SEC and certain state securities commissions for matters
                        relating to the offering and sale of its securities.  Peoples is subject to disclosure and regulatory requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the Securities
                       Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), as administered by the SEC.  Peoples’ Common Shares are listed on The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC
                       (“NASDAQ”) under the symbol “PEBO” and is subject to the rules for NASDAQ listed companies.
 
                 Federal Home Loan Bank. Peoples Bank is a member of the FHLB, which provides credit to its members in the form of advances.  As a member of the FHLB, Peoples must
                        maintain an investment in the capital stock of the FHLB in a specified amount.  Upon the origination or renewal of an advance, the FHLB is required by law to obtain and
                        maintain a security interest in certain types of collateral.  The FHLB is required to establish standards of community investment or service that its members must maintain
                        for continued access to long-term advances from the FHLB.  The standards take into account a member’s performance under the Community Reinvestment Act and its
                        record of lending to first-time homebuyers.
 
                  The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”)/Depository Insurance. The FDIC is an independent federal agency which insures the deposits, up to prescribed
                        statutory limits, of federally-insured banks and savings associations and safeguards the safety and soundness of the financial institution industry.  Peoples Bank’s
                        deposits are insured up to applicable limits by Deposit Insurance Fund of the FDIC and subject to deposit insurance assessments to maintain the Deposit Insurance Fund.
 
The FDIC utilizes a risk-based assessment system that imposes insurance premiums based upon a four-tier risk matrix based upon a bank’s capital level and supervisory, or CAMELS, rating.  Currently, most banks, including Peoples Bank, are in the best risk category and pay deposit assessments ranging from 12 to 14 cents per $100 of assessable deposits.  On February 27, 2009, the FDIC adopted a final rule that changes the way its assessment system differentiates risk and changes assessment rates beginning April 1, 2009.  For banks in the best risk category, the initial base rates will range from 12 to 16 cents per $100 of assessable deposits on an annual basis effective April 1, 2009.  The FDIC also adopted an interim rule imposing an emergency special assessment of 20 cents per $100 of assessable deposits on all insured institutions on June 30, 2009, which will be collected on September 30, 2009.  The interim rule also permits the FDIC to impose an emergency special assessment after June 30, 2009, of up to 10 cents per $100 of assessable deposits if necessary to maintain public confidence in federal deposit insurance.  The interim rule is subject to a 30-day comment period.  The FDIC may take further actions in the future that result in higher assessment rates that could have a material adverse effect on earnings.
 
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  The FDIC may terminate insurance coverage upon a finding that the insured institution has engaged in unsafe or unsound practices, is in an unsafe or unsound condition to continue operations, or has violated any applicable law, regulation, rule, order or condition enacted or imposed by the institution’s regulatory agency.
 
                 U.S. Treasury and Special Inspector General. As a result of Peoples’ participation in the TARP Capital Purchase Program, Peoples is also subject to the regulatory
                        authority granted to the U.S. Treasury and the Special Inspector General for the Troubled Assets Relief Program under EESA and ARRA, as discussed below under the
                        caption “TARP Capital Purchase Program”.
 
Bank Holding Company Act
In general, the BHC Act limits the business of bank holding companies to banking, managing or controlling banks and other activities that the Federal Reserve Board has determined to be so closely related to banking as to be a proper incident thereto.  As a result of the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act of 1999 – also known as the Financial Services Modernization Act of 1999 –  (“GLB Act”), which amended the BHC Act, bank holding companies that are financial holding companies may engage in any activity, or acquire and retain the shares of a company engaged in any activity that is either (1) financial in nature or incidental to such financial activity (as determined by the Federal Reserve Board in consultation with the OCC) or (2) complementary to a financial activity, and that does not pose a substantial risk to the safety and soundness of depository institutions or the financial system generally (as solely determined by the Federal Reserve Board).  Activities that are financial in nature include securities underwriting and dealing, insurance underwriting and making merchant banking investments.  In 2002, Peoples elected, and received approval from the Federal Reserve Board, to become a financial holding company.
 
In order for a financial holding company to commence any new activity permitted by the BHC Act, or to acquire a company engaged in any new activity permitted by the BHC Act, each insured depository institution subsidiary of the financial holding company must have received a rating of at least “satisfactory” in its most recent examination under the Community Reinvestment Act.  See the section captioned “Community Reinvestment Act” included later in this item.  In addition, financial holding companies like Peoples are also permitted to acquire companies engaged in activities that are financial in nature and in activities that are incidental and complementary to financial activities without prior Federal Reserve Board approval.
 
The BHC Act and other federal and state statutes regulate acquisitions of commercial banks.  The BHC Act requires the prior approval of the Federal Reserve Board for the direct or indirect acquisition of more than 5% of the voting shares of a commercial bank or its parent holding company.  Under the Federal Bank Merger Act, the prior approval of the OCC is required for a national bank to merge with another bank or purchase the assets or assume the deposits of another bank.  In reviewing applications seeking approval of merger and acquisition transactions, the bank regulatory authorities will consider, among other things, the competitive effect and public benefits of the transactions, the capital position of the combined organization, the applicant’s performance record under the Community Reinvestment Act (see the section captioned “Community Reinvestment Act” included later in this item) and fair housing laws and the effectiveness of the subject organizations in combating money laundering activities.
 
Capital Adequacy and Prompt Corrective Action
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Improvement Act of 1991 (“FDICIA”), among other things, identifies five capital categories for insured depository institutions and requires the respective federal regulatory agencies to implement systems for “prompt corrective action” for insured depository institutions that do not meet minimum capital requirements within such categories.  The federal regulatory agencies, including the Federal Reserve Board and the OCC, have adopted substantially similar regulatory capital guidelines and regulations consistent with the requirements of FDICIA, as well as established a system of prompt corrective action to resolve certain of the problems of undercapitalized institutions.  This system is based on five capital level categories for insured depository institutions:  “well capitalized”, “adequately capitalized”, “under capitalized”, “significantly under capitalized” and “critically under capitalized”.
 
Both Peoples and Peoples Bank are subject to risk-based capital requirements and guidelines imposed by their respective primary regulatory agencies.  These capital guidelines and regulations are based on the 1998 capital accord of the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (the “Basel Committee”) and divide the capital of Peoples and Peoples Bank into two tiers:
 
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·  
“Tier 1 capital” consists of (1) common shareholders’ equity; (2) qualifying perpetual preferred stock and trust preferred securities (up to 25% of total Tier 1 capital); and (3) minority interests in equity accounts of consolidated subsidiaries, less goodwill and certain other deductions including intangible assets and net unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities.
 
·  
“Tier 2 capital” consists primarily of allowance for loan losses and net unrealized gains on certain available-for-sale equity securities, subject to limitations established by the guidelines, as well as any qualifying perpetual preferred stock and trust preferred securities amounts excluded from Tier 1 capital.  Tier 2 capital may also include, among other things, certain amounts of hybrid capital instruments, mandatory convertible debt and subordinated debt.
 
   In addition, each asset on Peoples and Peoples Bank’s balance sheets, as well as credit equivalent amounts of certain derivatives and off-balance sheet items, are assigned to one of several broad risk weight categories: 0%, 20%, 50%, 100% and in some cases 200%, resulting in a calculation of “total risk-weighted assets”.
 
Peoples and Peoples Bank are required to maintain sufficient capital to meet both a risk-based asset ratio test and leverage ratio test.  From time to time, the regulatory agencies may require Peoples and Peoples Bank to maintain capital above these minimum levels should certain conditions exist, such as deterioration of their financial condition or growth in assets, either actual or expected.  Additional information regarding Peoples and Peoples Bank’s risk-based capital requirements and ratios can be found in Note 16 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
In 2004, the Basel Committee published a new capital accord to replace its 1988 capital accord (“Basel II”).  Basel II provides two approaches for setting capital standards for credit risk, sets capital requirements for operational risk and refines the existing capital requirements for market risk exposures.  In November 2007, the U.S. federal regulatory agencies adopted a definitive final rule for implementing Basel II in the United States that was effective April 1, 2008.  The final rule applies only to internationally active banking organizations and organizations with consolidated total assets of at least $250 billion or consolidated on-balance sheet foreign exposures of at least $10 billion.  Other U.S. banking organizations may elect to adopt the requirements of this rule provided they met certain requirements.  The final rule also permits an institution’s primary federal regulator to waive application of the final rule if  that regulator determines applying the rule would not be appropriate given the institution’s asset size, level of complexity, risk profile or scope of operations.  Currently, Peoples and Peoples Bank are not required to comply with Basel II.
 
Community Reinvestment Act
The Community Reinvestment Act of 1977 (“CRA”) requires depository institutions to assist in meeting the credit needs of their market areas consistent with safe and sound banking practice.  Under the CRA, each depository institution is required to help meet the credit needs of its market areas by, among other things, providing credit to low and moderate-income individuals and communities.  Depository institutions are periodically examined for compliance with the CRA and are assigned ratings.  As of December 31, 2008, the most recent performance evaluation by the OCC resulted in an overall rating of “Outstanding”.
 
TARP Capital Purchase Program
On October 3, 2008, President Bush signed into law the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 (the “EESA”) enacted by the U.S. Congress, which appropriated $700 billion for the purpose of restoring liquidity and stability in the U.S. financial system.  On October 14, 2008, the U.S. Treasury established the TARP Capital Purchase Program under the authority granted by the EESA.  Under the TARP Capital Purchase Program, the U.S. Treasury made $250 billion of capital available to U.S. financial institutions in the form of senior preferred stock investments.   In connection with the purchase of preferred stock, the U.S. Treasury will receive a warrant entitling the U.S. Treasury to buy the participating institution’s common stock with a market price equal to 15% of the preferred stock.
 
In connection with the EESA, there have been numerous actions by the Federal Reserve Board, the U.S. Congress, the U.S. Treasury, the FDIC, the SEC and others to further the economic and banking industry stabilization efforts under the EESA.  It remains unclear at this time what further legislative and regulatory measures will be implemented under the EESA that affect Peoples.
 
As discussed in more detail above under the caption “Recent Corporate Developments,” Peoples elected to participate in the TARP Capital Purchase Program and received $39 million of new equity capital from the U.S. Treasury on January 30, 2009.  As part of its participation in the TARP Capital Purchase Program, Peoples agreed to various requirements and restrictions imposed on all participants in the TARP Capital Purchase Program.  Among the terms of participation was a provision that the U. S. Treasury could change the terms of participation at any time.
 
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On February 17, 2009, President Obama signed into law the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (the “ARRA”) enacted by the U.S. Congress.  The ARRA, among other things, imposed certain new executive compensation and corporate expenditure limits on all current and future recipients of funds under the TARP Capital Purchase Program, including Peoples, as long as any obligation arising from the financial assistance provided to the recipient under the TARP Capital Purchase Program remains outstanding, excluding any period during which the U.S. Treasury holds only warrants to purchase common stock of a TARP participation (the “Covered Period”).
 
The current terms of participation in the TARP Capital Purchase Program include the following:
 
·  
 Peoples must file with the SEC a registration statement under the Securities Act of 1933 registering for resale the Series A Preferred Shares and the Warrant;
 
·  
as long as the Series A Preferred Shares remain outstanding, unless all accrued and unpaid dividends for all past dividend periods on the Series A Preferred Shares are fully paid, Peoples will not be permitted to declare or pay dividends on any Common Shares, any junior preferred shares or, generally, any preferred shares ranking pari passu with the Series A Preferred Shares (other than in the case of pari passu preferred shares, dividends on a pro rata basis with the Series A Preferred Shares), nor will Peoples be permitted to repurchase or redeem any Common Shares or preferred shares other than the Series A Preferred Shares;
 
·  
until the Series A Preferred Shares have been transferred or redeemed in whole, until January 20, 2012, the U.S. Treasury's approval is required for any increase in Common Share dividends or any share repurchases other than repurchases of the Series A Preferred Shares, repurchases of  junior preferred shares, or repurchases of Common Shares in connection with the administration of any employee benefit plan in the ordinary course of business and consistent with past practice;
 
·  
Peoples must comply with the U. S. Treasury's standards for executive compensation and corporate governance while the U. S. Treasury holds the securities issued by Peoples.  Such standards apply to Peoples’ Senior Executive Officers (as defined in the ARRA) as well as other employees.  The current standards include the following:
 
–  
incentive compensation for Senior Executive Officers must not encourage unnecessary and excessive risks that threaten the value of the financial institution;
 
–  
any bonus or incentive compensation paid (or under a legally binding obligation to pay) to a Senior Executive Officer or any of Peoples’ next 20 most highly-compensated employees based on statements of earnings, gains or other criteria that are later proven to be materially inaccurate must be subject to recovery, or “clawback”, by Peoples;
 
–  
Peoples is prohibited from paying or accruing any bonus, retention award or incentive compensation with respect to its five most highly-compensated employees or such higher number as the Secretary of the U.S. Treasury may determine is in the public interest, except for grants of restricted stock that do not fully vest during the Covered Period and do not have a value which exceeds one-third of an employee’s total annual compensation;
 
–  
severance payments to a Senior Executive Officer and the five next most highly-compensated employees, generally referred to as "golden parachute" payments, are prohibited , except for payments for services performed or benefits accrued;
 
–  
compensation plans that encourage manipulation of reported earnings are prohibited;
 
–  
the U.S. Treasury may retroactively review bonuses, retention awards and other compensation previously paid to a Senior Executive Officer or any of Peoples’ 20 next most highly-compensated employees that the U.S. Treasury finds to be inconsistent with the purposes of TARP or otherwise contrary to the public interest;
 
–  
Peoples’ Board of Directors must establish a company-wide policy regarding excessive or luxury expenditures;
 
–  
Peoples’ proxy statements for annual shareholder meetings must permit a nonbinding “say on pay” shareholder vote on the compensation of executives;
 
–  
executive compensation in excess of $500,000 for each Senior Executive Officer must not be deducted for federal income tax purposes; and
 
–  
compliance with the executive compensation reporting and recordkeeping requirements established by the U.S. Treasury.
 
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The ARRA permits such recipients, subject to consultation with the appropriate federal banking agency, to repay to the U.S. Treasury any financial assistance received under the TARP Capital Purchase Program without penalty, delay or the need to raise additional replacement capital. The U.S. Treasury is to promulgate regulations to implement the procedures under which a TARP participant may repay any assistance received.  As of the date of this Form 10-K, the U.S. Treasury had not yet issued such regulations.
 
Detailed information regarding the Series A Preferred Shares and the Warrant can be found in Note 11 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
Dividend Restrictions
Current federal banking regulations impose restrictions on Peoples Bank’s ability to pay dividends to Peoples.  These restrictions include a limit on the amount of dividends that may be paid in a given year without prior approval of the OCC and a prohibition on paying dividends that would cause Peoples Bank’s total capital to be less than the required minimum levels under the risk-based capital requirements imposed by the OCC.  Peoples Bank’s regulators may prohibit the payment of dividends at any time if the regulators determine the dividends represent unsafe and/or unsound banking practices or reduce Peoples Banks’ total capital below adequate levels.  For further discussion regarding regulatory restrictions on dividends, see Note 16 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
Peoples’ ability to pay dividends to its shareholders may also be restricted.  Under current Federal Reserve Board policy, Peoples is expected to act as a source of financial strength to, and commit resources to support, Peoples Bank.  Under this policy, the Federal Reserve Board may require Peoples to contribute additional capital to Peoples Bank, which could restrict the amount of cash available for dividends.  In addition, Peoples has entered into certain agreements that place restrictions on dividends.  Specifically, Peoples will be prohibited from paying dividends on its Common Shares if it suspends interest payments related to the trust preferred securities issued by its trust subsidiary.  Additional information regarding Peoples’ trust subsidiary can be found in Note 10 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.  The dividend rights of holders of Peoples’ Common Shares are also qualified and subject to the dividend rights of holders of Series A Preferred Shares described above under the caption “Supervision and Regulation – TARP Capital Purchase Program”.
 
Even when the legal ability exists, Peoples or Peoples Bank may decide to limit the payment of dividends in order to retain earnings for corporate use.
 
Customer Privacy and Other Consumer Protections
Peoples is subject to regulations limiting the ability of financial institutions to disclose non-public information about consumers to nonaffiliated third parties.  These limitations require disclosure of privacy policies to consumers and, in some circumstances, allow consumers to prevent disclosure of certain personal information to a nonaffiliated party.  Peoples is also subject to numerous federal and state laws aimed at protecting consumers, including the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act, the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act, the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, the Truth in Lending Act, the Bank Secrecy Act, the Community Reinvestment Act and the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
 
USA Patriot Act
The Uniting and Strengthening of America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001 (the “USA Patriot Act”) and related regulations, among other things, require financial institutions to establish programs specifying procedures for obtaining identifying information from customers and establishing enhanced due diligence policies, procedures and controls designed to detect and report suspicious activity.  Peoples Bank has established policies and procedures that Peoples believes comply with the requirements of the USA Patriot Act.
 
Monetary Policy
The Federal Reserve Board regulates money and credit conditions and interest rates in order to influence general economic conditions primarily through open market operations in U.S. government securities, changes in the discount rate on bank borrowings, and changes in the reserve requirements against depository institutions’ deposits.  These policies and regulations significantly affect the overall growth and distribution of loans, investments and deposits, as well as interest rates charged on loans and paid on deposits.
 
The monetary policies of the Federal Reserve Board have had a significant effect on the operating results of financial institutions in the past and are expected to continue to have significant effects in the future.  In view of the changing conditions in the economy, the money markets and the activities of monetary and fiscal authorities, Peoples can make no definitive predictions as to future changes in interest rates, credit availability or deposit levels.
 
 
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Corporate Governance
In 2003, Peoples’ Board of Directors and management instituted a series of actions to enhance Peoples’ already strong corporate governance practices and to comply with the requirements imposed by the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.  These actions included the adoption of a formal Code of Ethics, a revision of the charter of the Audit Committee and the formation of two new committees: a Disclosure Committee for Financial Reporting and a Governance and Nominating Committee.  Additionally, Peoples Bank has maintained a conflict of interest policy applicable to its directors, officers and employees for over 30 years.  The current charters of the Audit Committee, the Governance and Nominating Committee and the Compensation Committee can be found on Peoples’ website on the “Corporate Governance & Ethics” page.
 
Code of Ethics
Peoples’ Code of Ethics is applicable to all directors, officers and employees of Peoples and its affiliates.  The Board of Directors adopted Peoples’ Code of Ethics to demonstrate to the public and Peoples’ shareholders the importance the Board and management place on ethical conduct and to formally establish Peoples’ expectations for the conduct of ethical business practices.  Peoples’ Code of Ethics is available, free of charge, to the public on Peoples’ website on the “Corporate Governance & Ethics” page.  Please also see Item 10 of this Form 10-K.
 
Disclosure Committee for Financial Reporting
The Disclosure Committee for Financial Reporting (the “Disclosure Committee”) consists of key members of executive management and senior professional support staff from legal, risk management and accounting areas and is designed to capture information from all components of Peoples’ business.
 
Peoples established the Disclosure Committee to formalize its process of establishing and monitoring disclosure controls and procedures and communicating the results of such controls and procedures.  As such, the Disclosure Committee is expected to provide a process on which the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer can rely in providing the certifications required under Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.  Thus, the primary responsibility of the Disclosure Committee is to review and approve (1) all reports and other documents file with the SEC and (2) all press releases or other public communications containing financial information.
 
Governance and Nominating Committee
The purpose of the Governance and Nominating Committee is to identify qualified candidates for election, nomination or appointment to Peoples’ Board of Directors and recommend to the full Board a slate of director nominees for each annual meeting of the shareholders of Peoples or as vacancies occur.  In addition, the Governance and Nominating Committee oversees matters of corporate governance, including the evaluation of Board performance and processes, and makes recommendations to the Board and the Chairman of the Board regarding assignment and rotation of members and chairs of committees of the Board.  The goal of the Governance and Nominating Committee is to ensure that the composition, practices and operation of the Board contribute to value creation and to the effective representation of Peoples’ shareholders.
 
 
Website Access to Peoples’ SEC Filings
Peoples maintains an Internet website at www.peoplesbancorp.com (this uniform resource locator, or URL, is an inactive textual reference only and is not intended to incorporate Peoples’ Internet website into this Form 10-K).  Peoples makes available free of charge on or through its website, its annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange, as soon as reasonably practicable after Peoples electronically files each such report or amendment with, or furnishes it to, the SEC.
 

ITEM 1A.  RISK FACTORS

The following are certain risks that management believes are specific to Peoples’ business.  This should not be viewed as an all-inclusive list of risks or presenting the risk factors listed in any particular order.

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·  
Changes in Interest Rates May Adversely Affect Peoples’ Profitability.
Peoples’ earnings are dependent to a significant degree on net interest income, which is the amount by which interest income exceeds interest expense.  Interest rates are highly sensitive to many factors that are beyond Peoples’ control, including general economic conditions and policies of various governmental and regulatory agencies and, in particular, the Federal Reserve Board.  Changes in monetary policy, including changes in interest rates, could influence not only the interest Peoples receives on loans and securities and the amount of interest it pays on deposits and borrowings, but such changes could also affect (i) Peoples’ ability to originate loans and obtain deposits, (ii) the fair value of Peoples’ financial assets and liabilities, and (iii) the average duration of Peoples’ mortgage-backed securities portfolio.  If the interest rates paid on deposits and other borrowings increase at a faster rate than the interest rates received on loans and other investments, Peoples’ net interest income, and therefore earnings, could be adversely affected.  Earnings could also be adversely affected if the interest rates received on loans and other investments fall more quickly than the interest rates paid on deposits and other borrowings.
 
Management uses various measures to monitor interest rate risk and believes it has implemented effective asset and liability management strategies to reduce the potential effects of changes in interest rates on Peoples’ results of operations.  Management also periodically adjusts the mix of assets and liabilities to manage interest rate risk.  However, any substantial, unexpected, prolonged change in market interest rates could have a material adverse effect on Peoples’ financial condition and results of operations.  See the sections captioned “Interest Income and Expense” and “Interest Rate Sensitivity and Liquidity” in Item 7 of this Form 10-K for further discussion related to Peoples’ interest rate risk.
 
·  
Peoples’ Exposure to Credit Risk Could Adversely Affect Peoples’ Earnings and Financial Condition.
There are certain risks inherent in making loans.  These risks include interest rate changes over the time period in which loans may be repaid, risks resulting from changes in the economy, risks inherent in dealing with borrowers and, in the case of loans secured by collateral, risks resulting from uncertainties about the future value of the collateral.
 
Commercial and commercial real estate loans comprise a significant portion of Peoples’ loan portfolio.  Commercial loans generally are viewed as having a higher credit risk than residential real estate or consumer loans because they usually involve larger loan balances to a single borrower and are more susceptible to a risk of default during an economic downturn.  Since Peoples’ loan portfolio contains a significant number of commercial and commercial real estate loans, the deterioration of one or a few of these loans could cause a significant increase in nonperforming loans, and ultimately could have a material adverse effect on Peoples’ earnings and financial condition.
 
·  
Peoples’ Allowance For Loan Losses May Be Insufficient.
Peoples maintains an allowance for loan losses to provide for probable loan losses based on management’s quarterly analysis of the loan portfolio.  There can be no assurance on the timing or amount of actual loan losses or that charge-offs in future periods will not exceed the allowance for loan losses.  In addition, federal and state regulators periodically review Peoples’ allowance for loan losses as part of their examination process and may require management to increase the allowance or recognize further loan charge-offs based on judgments different than those of management.  Any increase in the provision for loan losses would decrease Peoples’ pretax and net income.
 
·  
Adverse Conditions in the Real Estate Markets and General Economy May Adversely Impact Peoples’ Results of Operations.
During 2008, general economic conditions throughout the United States deteriorated and unemployment increased, as business activity across a wide range of industries and regions reduced significantly from a lack of consumer spending and lack of liquidity in the credit markets.  In addition, the values of nearly all asset classes, including commercial real estate, decreased significantly, which has led to many loans becoming under-collateralized.  These conditions have caused many financial institutions, including Peoples, to increase their allowance for loan losses, thereby reducing earnings.  The conditions have also led to the failure or merger of a number of prominent financial institutions.  The increased level of financial institution failures, or near failures, has resulted in higher default rates on securities, including bank-issued trust preferred securities, and contracts entered into with such entities as counterparties, which placed additional stress on the market and reduced investor confidence.  Consequently, the cost and availability of liquidity have been adversely affected, despite significant actions by the Federal Reserve Board and the Federal government.  In addition, Peoples could recognize additional impairment losses on its investment in trust preferred securities should default rates increase due to adverse conditions within the financial services industry.
 
Peoples’ success depends primarily on the general economic conditions in the specific local markets in which it operates.  The local economies of Peoples’ market area historically have been less robust than the economy of the nation as a whole and typically are not subject to the same fluctuations as the national economy.  Adverse economic conditions in Peoples’ market area, including the loss of certain significant employers, could reduce Peoples’ growth rate, affect borrowers’ ability to repay their loans and generally affect Peoples’ financial condition and results of operations.  Furthermore, continued declines in real estate values could cause additional loans to become under-collateralized and require further increases to the allowance for loan losses.

·  
Adverse Changes in the Financial Markets May Adversely Impact Peoples’ Results of Operations.
Over the last several months, the global financial markets have been characterized by substantially increased volatility and short-selling and an overall loss of investor confidence, initially in financial institutions, but more recently in companies in a number of other industries and in the broader markets. Peoples generally invests in obligations of the U.S. Treasury, agencies and corporations of the U.S. government, including mortgage-backed securities, bank eligible obligations of any state or political subdivision in the U.S., and bank eligible corporate obligations, including private-label mortgage-backed securities.  While most of these investments may have limited credit risk, all are subject to changes in market value due to changing interest rates and implied credit spreads.  Additionally, certain investment securities held by Peoples represent beneficial interests in structured investments, which are collateralized by residential mortgages, debt obligations and other similar asset-backed assets.  These structured investments are generally rated investment grade by credit rating agencies at the time of Peoples’ initial investment, although the credit ratings are subject to change due to deterioration in the credit quality of the underlying collateral.  In recent months, these types of structured investments have been subject to significant market volatility due to the uncertainty of the credit ratings, deterioration in credit losses occurring within certain types of residential mortgages, changes in prepayments of the underlying collateral and the lack of transparency related to the investment structures and the collateral underlying the structured investment vehicles, which resulted in Peoples recognizing impairment charges on certain investment securities during 2007 and 2008.  Given recent market conditions and changing economic factors, Peoples may be required to recognize additional impairment charges on securities held in its investment portfolio in the future.
 
·  
Changes in Accounting Standards, Policies, Estimates or Procedures May Impact Peoples’ Reported Financial Condition or Results of Operations.
The accounting standard setters, including the Financial Accounting Standards Board, the SEC and other regulatory bodies, periodically change the financial accounting and reporting standards that govern the preparation of Peoples’ Consolidated Financial Statements. These changes can be difficult to predict and can materially impact how Peoples records and reports its financial condition and results of operations. In some cases, Peoples could be required to apply a new or revised standard retroactively, resulting in the restatement of prior period financial statements. In addition, the preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make significant estimates that affect the financial statements. Due to the inherent nature of these estimates, no assurance can be given that Peoples will not be required to recognize significant, unexpected losses due to actual results varying materially from management’s estimates.  Additional information regarding Peoples’ critical accounting policies and the sensitivity of estimates can be found in the section captioned “Critical Accounting Policies” in Item 7 of this Form 10-K.
 
·  
Peoples May Be Named as a Defendant From Time to Time in a Variety of Litigation And Other Actions, Which Could Have a Material Adverse Effect on Peoples’ Financial Condition And Results of Operations.
Peoples or one of its subsidiaries may be named as a defendant from time to time in a variety of litigation arising in the ordinary course of their respective businesses.  Such litigation is normally covered by errors and omissions or other appropriate insurance.  However, significant litigation could cause Peoples to devote substantial time and resources to defending its business or result in judgments or settlements that exceed insurance coverage, which could have a material adverse effect on Peoples’ financial condition and results of operation. Further, any claims asserted against Peoples, regardless of merit or eventual outcome may harm Peoples’ reputation and result in loss of business.  In addition, Peoples may not be able to obtain new or different insurance coverages or adequate replacement policies with acceptable terms.
 
·  
The Financial Services Industry Is Very Competitive.
Peoples experiences significant competition in originating loans, principally from other commercial banks, savings associations and credit unions.  Several of Peoples’ competitors have greater resources, larger branch systems and a wider array of banking services.  This competition could reduce Peoples’ net income by decreasing the number and size of loans that it originates and the interest rates it may charge on these loans.  For a more complete discussion of Peoples’ competitive environment, see “Competition” in Item 1 of this Form 10-K.  If Peoples is unable to compete effectively, Peoples will lose market share and income from deposits, loans and other products may be reduced.
 
·  
Peoples’ Ability to Pay Dividends Is Limited.
Peoples is a separate and distinct legal entity from its subsidiaries.  Peoples receives nearly all of its revenue from dividends from Peoples Bank, which are limited by federal banking laws and regulations.  These dividends also serve as the primary source of funds to pay dividends on Peoples’ Common Shares and interest and principal on Peoples’ debt.  The inability of Peoples Bank to pay sufficient dividends to Peoples could have a material, adverse effect on Peoples’ business.  In addition, Peoples’ participation in the U.S. Treasury’s TARP Capital Purchase Program currently restricts the ability to increase the dividend payable to holders of Common Shares without prior approval of the U.S. Treasury.  Further discussion of Peoples’ ability to pay dividends can be found under the captions “Supervision and Regulation-TARP Capital Purchase Program” and “Supervision and Regulation-Dividend Restrictions” in Item 1 of this Form 10-K and Note 16 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
·  
Government Regulation Significantly Affects Peoples’ Business.
The banking industry is heavily regulated under both federal and state law.  Peoples is subject to regulation and supervision by the Federal Reserve Board, and Peoples Bank is subject to regulation and supervision by the OCC, and secondarily the FDIC.  These regulations are primarily intended to protect depositors and the federal deposit insurance funds, not Peoples’ shareholders.  Peoples’ non-bank subsidiaries are also subject to the supervision of the Federal Reserve Board, in addition to other regulatory and self-regulatory agencies including the SEC and state securities and insurance regulators.  Regulations affecting banks and financial services businesses are undergoing continuous change, and management cannot predict the effect of those changes.  Regulations and laws may be modified at any time, and new legislation may be enacted that affects Peoples and its subsidiaries.  Any modifications or new laws could adversely affect Peoples’ business.  Further information about government regulation of Peoples’ business can be found under the caption “Supervision and Regulation” in Item 1 of this Form 10-K.

As a participant in the TARP Capital Purchase Program, Peoples agreed to various requirements and restrictions imposed by the U.S. Treasury on all participants, which included a provision that the U. S. Treasury could change the terms of participation at any time. Further information regarding the current requirements and restrictions imposed on Peoples can be found under the caption “Supervision and Regulation – TARP Capital Purchase Program” in Item 1 of this Form 10-K.
 
·  
Recent Legislative and Regulatory Initiatives to Address Difficult Market and Economic Conditions May Not Stabilize the U. S. Banking System and May Significantly Affect Peoples’ Financial Condition, Results of Operation, Liquidity or Stock Price.
In 2008 and continuing into 2009, the U.S. government and various regulatory agencies, including the Federal Reserve Board, FDIC and SEC, have undertaken numerous initiatives intended to stabilize the U.S. banking system and address the liquidity and credit crisis that has followed the sub-prime mortgage market crisis that began in 2007.

Specifically, the EESA created the Troubled Assets Relief Program (“TARP”) intended to encourage financial institutions to increase their lending to customers and each other, as well as increased federal deposit insurance coverage limits through the end of 2009.  The ARRA includes a wide array of programs intended to stimulate the economy and provide for extensive infrastructure, energy, health and education needs.  Other initiatives have included homeowner relief that encourages loan restructuring and modification; the establishment of significant liquidity and credit facilities for financial institutions and investment banks; the lowering of the Federal Funds rate; emergency action against short selling practices; a temporary guarantee program for money market funds; the establishment of a commercial paper funding facility to provide back-stop liquidity to commercial paper issuers; and coordinated international efforts to address illiquidity and other weaknesses in the banking sector.

The legislative and regulatory initiatives described above may not have their desired effects, as asset values have continued to decline and access to liquidity continues to be limited.  If the volatility in the markets continues and economic conditions fail to improve or worsen, Peoples’ business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.
 
·  
Because of Peoples’ Participation in the TARP Capital Purchase Program, Peoples Is Subject to Several Restrictions on Compensation Paid to Peoples’ Executive Officers.
As a recipient of government funding under the TARP Capital Purchase Program, Peoples must comply with the executive compensation and corporate governance standards imposed by the ARRA.  These restriction are more fully described in Item 1 of this Form 10-K under the caption “Supervision and Regulation-TARP Capital Purchase Program”.  These standards, which are more stringent than those previously proposed by the U.S. Treasury, could impact Peoples’ ability to retain key executives or cause Peoples to make material changes to its current compensation plans and philosophy that could result in higher compensation costs in future periods.  It is unclear how these standards will relate to the similar standards announced by the U.S. Treasury in the guidelines it issued on February 4, 2009, or whether the standards will be considered effective immediately or only after the U.S. Treasury adopts implementing regulations.
 

·  
The Series A Preferred Shares Impact Net Income Available to Peoples’ Common Shareholders And the Warrant May Be Dilutive to Peoples’ Common Shareholders.
While the additional capital Peoples raised through its participation in the TARP Capital Purchase Program provides further funding to Peoples’ business and Peoples believes has improved investor perceptions with regard to Peoples’ financial position, such capital has increased Peoples’ equity and the number of dilutive outstanding Common Shares as well as Peoples’ preferred dividend requirements.  The dividends declared and the accretion of discount on the Series A Preferred Shares will reduce the net income available to holders of Peoples’ Common Shares and Peoples’ earnings per common share.  The Series A Preferred Shares will also receive preferential treatment in the event of Peoples’ liquidation, dissolution or winding up.  Additionally, the ownership interest of the existing holders of Peoples’ Common Shares will be diluted to the extent the Warrant Peoples issued to the U.S. Treasury in conjunction with the sale to the U.S. Treasury of the Series A Preferred Shares is exercised.  Although the U.S. Treasury has agreed not to vote any of the Common Shares it receives upon exercise of the Warrant, a transferee of any portion of the Warrant or of any Common Shares acquired upon exercise of the Warrant is not bound by this restriction.
 
·  
If Peoples Is Unable To Redeem The Series A Preferred Shares After Five Years, The Cost Of This Capital To Peoples Will Increase Substantially.
If Peoples is unable to redeem the Series A Preferred Shares prior to February 15, 2014, the cost of this capital to Peoples will increase substantially on that date, from 5.0% per annum to 9.0% per annum.  Depending on Peoples’ financial condition at the time, this increase in the annual dividend rate on the Series A Preferred Shares could have a material negative effect on Peoples’ liquidity.
 
·  
Material Breaches in Security of Peoples’ Systems May Have a Significant Effect on Peoples’ Business.
Peoples collects, processes and stores sensitive consumer data by utilizing computer systems and telecommunications networks operated by both Peoples and third party service providers.  Peoples has security and backup and recovery systems in place, as well as a business continuity plan, to ensure the computer systems will not be inoperable, to the extent possible.  Peoples also has implemented security controls to prevent unauthorized access to the computer systems and requires its third party service providers to maintain similar controls.  However, management cannot be certain that these measures will be successful.  A security breach of the computer systems and loss of confidential information, such as customer account numbers and related information, could result in a loss of customers’ confidence and, thus, loss of business.
 
·  
Peoples and Its Subsidiaries Are Subject to Examinations And Challenges by Tax Authorities.
In the normal course of business, Peoples and its subsidiaries are routinely subject to examinations and challenges from federal and state tax authorities regarding positions taken regarding their respective tax returns.  State tax authorities have become increasingly aggressive in challenging tax positions taken by financial institutions, especially those positions relating to tax compliance and calculation of taxes subject to apportionment.  Any challenge or examination by a tax authority may result in adjustments to the timing or amount of taxable net worth or taxable income or deductions or the allocation of income among tax jurisdictions.

Management believes it has taken appropriate positions on all tax returns filed, to be filed or not filed and does not anticipate any examination would have a material impact on Peoples’ Consolidated Financial Statements.  However, the outcome of such examinations and ultimate resolution of any resulting assessments are inherently difficult to predict.  Thus, no assurance can be given that Peoples’ tax liability for any tax year open to examination will not be different than what is reflected in Peoples’ current and historical Consolidated Financial Statements.  Further information can be found in the “Critical Accounting Policies – Income Taxes” section of “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Results of Operation and Financial Condition” included in this Form 10-K.
 
·  
Anti-Takeover Provisions May Delay Or Prevent an Acquisition Or Change in Control by a Third Party.
Provisions in the Ohio General Corporation Law and Peoples’ amended articles of incorporation and code of regulations, including a staggered board and a supermajority vote requirement for significant corporate changes, could discourage potential takeover attempts and make attempts by shareholders to remove Peoples’ Board of Directors and management more difficult.  These provisions may also have the effect of delaying or preventing a transaction or change in control that might be in the best interests of Peoples’ shareholders.
 



None.



    Peoples’ sole banking subsidiary, Peoples Bank, generally owns its offices, related facilities and unimproved real property.  In Ohio, Peoples Bank operates offices in Marietta (4 offices), Belpre (2 offices), Lowell, Lower Salem, Reno, Nelsonville (2 offices), Athens (3 offices), The Plains, Middleport, Rutland, Pomeroy (2 offices), Gallipolis, Cambridge (2 offices), Byesville, Quaker City, Flushing, Caldwell, McConnelsville, Baltimore, Carroll, Lancaster (2 offices) and Westerville.  In West Virginia, Peoples Bank operates offices in Huntington (2 offices), Parkersburg (3 offices), Vienna, Point Pleasant (2 offices), New Martinsville (2 offices) and Steelton.  In Kentucky, Peoples Bank’s office locations include Greenup, Summit, Ashland and Russell.  Of these 47 offices, 12 are leased and the rest are owned by Peoples Bank.

    Peoples Insurance Agency rents office space in various Peoples Bank offices.  In addition, Peoples Insurance Agency leases office buildings in Marietta, Ohio, and Ashland, Kentucky.
 
    Rent expense on the leased properties totaled $732,000 in 2008, which excludes intercompany rent expense.  The following are the only properties that have a lease term expiring on or before June 2010:
 
Location
Address
Lease Expiration Date (a)
     
Marietta Kroger Office
40 Acme Street
Marietta, Ohio
April 2009
     
New Martinsville Wal-Mart Office
1142 South Bridge Street
New Martinsville, West Virginia
April 2009
     
Barengo Agency Office
416 Hart Street
Marietta, Ohio
May 2009
     
Vienna Wal-Mart Office
701 Grand Central Avenue
Vienna, West Virginia
June 2009
     
Parkersburg Wal-Mart Office
2900 Pike Street
Parkersburg, West Virginia
January 2010
     
Westerville Office
515 Executive Campus Drive
Westerville, Ohio
April 2010
     
Lancaster Wheeling Street Office
117 West Wheeling Street
Lancaster, Ohio
June 2010
     
(a) Information represents the ending date of the current lease period.  Peoples may have the option to renew the lease beyond this date under the terms of the lease agreement and intends to renew all expiring leases unless otherwise disclosed in this Item 2.

    Additional information concerning the property and equipment owned or leased by Peoples and its subsidiaries is incorporated herein by reference from Note 5 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

19



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




None.

20

 
PART II


    Peoples’ common shares are traded on The NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol PEBO.  At December 31, 2008, Peoples had 1,221 shareholders of record.  The table presented below provides the high and low sales prices for Peoples’ common shares as reported on The NASDAQ Global Select Market and the cash dividends per share declared for the indicated periods.
 
   
High
Sales
   
Low
Sales
   
Dividends Declared
2008
               
Fourth Quarter
$
22.92
 
$
13.59
 
$
0.23
Third Quarter
 
29.25
   
17.33
   
0.23
Second Quarter
 
25.75
   
18.33
   
0.23
First Quarter
 
26.10
   
20.38
   
0.22
                 
                 
2007
               
Fourth Quarter
$
28.26
 
$
21.45
 
$
0.22
Third Quarter
 
28.15
   
21.40
   
0.22
Second Quarter
 
28.11
   
25.03
   
0.22
First Quarter
 
30.39
   
25.30
   
0.22
                 

    Peoples plans to continue to pay quarterly cash dividends, subject to certain regulatory restrictions described in Note 16 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, as well as in the sections captioned “Supervision and Regulation-TARP Capital Purchase Program” and “Supervision and Regulation-Dividend Restrictions” of Item 1 of this Form 10-K.

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
    The following table details Peoples’ repurchases and purchases by “affiliated purchasers” as defined in Rule 10b-18(a)(3) of Peoples’ common shares during the three months ended December 31, 2008:

 
(a)
Total Number
of Common Shares
Purchased
(b)
Average
 Price Paid
 per Share
 (c)
Total Number of Common Shares Purchased as
Part of Publicly Announced Plans
or Programs (1)
(d)
Maximum
Number of
Common Shares
 that May Yet Be Purchased Under
 the Plans or Programs (1)(2)
October 1 – 31, 2008
           1,800
(3)
 $        21.66
(3)
                     –
 
             447,800
 
November 1 – 30, 2008
              435
(3)
 $        17.21
(3)
                     –
 
             447,800
 
December 1 – 31, 2008
              619
(4)
 $        15.93
(4)
                     –
 
                     –
 
Total
           2,854
 
 $        19.74
 
                     –
 
                     –
 
 
 
(1) Information reflects the stock repurchase program announced on November 9, 2007, which authorized the repurchase of up to 500,000 common shares, with an aggregate purchase price of not more than $14 million, which expired on December 31, 2008.
 
 
(2) Information reflects maximum number of common shares that may be purchased at the end of the period indicated.
 
 
(3) Information reflects solely common shares purchased in open market transactions by Peoples Bank under the Rabbi Trust Agreement establishing a rabbi trust holding assets to provide payment of the benefits under the Peoples Bancorp Inc. Deferred Compensation Plan for Directors of Peoples Bancorp Inc. and Subsidiaries (the “Rabbi Trust”).
 
 
(4) Information includes 278 common shares purchased at an average price of $16.16 by Peoples Bank under the Rabbi Trust and 341 common shares acquired at an average price of $15.75 to satisfy tax withholding requirements related to stock-based compensation awards granted under Peoples’ equity plans.
 
Performance Graph
    The following Performance Graph and related information shall not be deemed “soliciting material” or to be “filed” with the Securities and Exchange Commission, nor shall such information be deemed to be incorporated by reference into any future filing under the Securities Act of 1933 or the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, each as amended, except to the extent that Peoples specifically incorporates it by reference into such filing.

    The following line graph compares the five-year cumulative total shareholder return of Peoples’ common shares, based on an initial investment of $100 on December 31, 2002, and assuming reinvestment of dividends, against that of an index comprised of all domestic common shares traded on The NASDAQ Stock Market (“NASDAQ Stocks (U.S. Companies)”), and an index comprised of all depository institutions (SIC Code #602) and depository institution holding companies (SIC Code #671) that are traded on The NASDAQ Stock Market (“NASDAQ Bank Stocks”).

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

 
At December 31,
 
2003
 
2004
 
2005
 
2006
 
2007
 
2008
Peoples Bancorp Inc.
 $100.00
 
 $  95.44
 
 $102.12
 
 $109.31
 
 $  94.73
 
 $ 76.06
NASDAQ Stocks (U.S. Companies)
 $100.00
 
 $108.84
 
 $111.16
 
 $122.11
 
 $132.42
 
 $ 63.80
NASDAQ Bank Stocks
 $100.00
 
 $114.44
 
 $111.80
 
 $125.47
 
 $  99.45
 
 $ 72.51

22


ITEM 6.  SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
    The information below has been derived from Peoples’ Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
2008
2007
2006
2005
2004
Operating Data
         
For the year ended:
         
Total interest income
 $     106,227
 $     113,419
 $     108,794
 $       95,775
 $       87,030
Total interest expense
         47,748
         59,498
         55,577
         43,469
         35,160
Net interest income
         58,479
         53,921
         53,217
         52,306
         51,870
Provision for loan losses
         27,640
           3,959
           3,622
           2,028
           2,546
Net (loss) gain on investment securities
          (2,592)
          (6,062)
              265
              539
          (3,040)
Other income exclusive of (loss) gain on securities
         32,853
         31,426
         30,860
         28,628
         25,248
Amortization of other intangible assets
           1,586
           1,934
           2,261
           2,669
           2,219
Other expense
         51,899
         49,518
         49,036
         48,673
         44,979
Net income
 $        7,455
 $       18,314
 $       21,558
 $       20,499
 $       18,275
           
           
Balance Sheet Data
         
Total assets
 $  2,002,338
 $  1,885,553
 $  1,875,255
 $  1,855,277
 $  1,809,086
Investment securities
        708,753
        565,463
        548,733
        589,313
        602,364
Net loans
     1,081,101
     1,105,223
     1,117,885
     1,057,156
     1,008,298
Total intangible assets
         66,406
         68,029
         68,852
         69,280
         71,118
Total deposits
     1,366,368
     1,186,377
     1,233,529
     1,089,286
     1,069,421
Short-term borrowings
         98,852
        222,541
        194,883
        173,696
         51,895
Long-term borrowings
        308,297
        231,979
        200,793
        362,466
        464,864
Junior subordinated notes held by subsidiary trusts
         22,495
         22,460
         29,412
         29,350
         29,263
Total stockholders’ equity
        186,626
        202,836
        197,169
        183,077
        175,418
Tangible assets (1)
     1,935,932
     1,817,524
     1,806,403
     1,785,997
     1,737,968
Tangible equity (2)
 $     120,220
 $     134,807
 $     128,317
 $     113,797
 $     104,300
           
           
Significant Ratios
         
Return on average assets
0.39%
0.98%
1.15%
1.12%
1.04%
Return on average stockholders’ equity
         3.67
         9.21
       11.33
       11.52
       10.60
Net interest margin
         3.51
         3.32
         3.29
         3.32
         3.39
Efficiency ratio (3)
       56.30
       57.07
       57.51
       59.05
       57.18
Average stockholders’ equity to average assets
       10.62
       10.62
       10.18
         9.73
         9.79
Average loans to average deposits
       88.10
       93.52
       94.80
       94.92
       91.24
Allowance for loan losses to total loans
         2.08
         1.40
         1.28
         1.37
         1.44
Total risk-based capital ratio
       13.19
       13.23
       13.17
       12.90
       12.30
Dividend payout ratio
127.03%
50.38%
41.09%
40.01%
41.66%
           
           
Per Share Data
         
Earnings per share – Basic
 $          0.72
 $          1.75
 $          2.03
 $          1.96
 $          1.74
Earnings per share – Diluted
             0.72
             1.74
             2.01
             1.94
             1.71
Cash dividends paid
             0.91
             0.88
             0.83
             0.78
             0.72
Book value at end of period
           18.06
           19.70
           18.51
           17.40
           16.81
Tangible book value at end of period (4)
 $        11.63
 $        13.09
 $        12.05
 $        10.82
 $        10.00
Weighted-average shares outstanding:
         
     Basic
   10,315,263
   10,462,933
   10,606,570
   10,444,854
   10,529,332
     Diluted
   10,348,579
   10,529,634
   10,723,933
   10,581,019
   10,710,114
Common shares outstanding at end of period:
   10,333,884
   10,296,748
   10,651,985
   10,518,980
   10,435,102
(1)
Total assets less goodwill and other intangible assets.
(2)
Total stockholders’ equity less goodwill and other intangible assets.
(3)
Non-interest expense (less intangible amortization) as a percentage of fully tax-equivalent net interest income plus non-interest income.
(4)
Tangible book value per share reflects capital calculated for banking regulatory requirements and excludes the balance sheet impact of intangible assets acquired through purchase accounting for acquisitions.
 
23


ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATION
 
Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements in this Form 10-K which are not historical fact are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.  Words such as “expects,” “believes”, “plans”,  “will”, “would”, “should”, “could” and similar expressions are intended to identify these forward-looking statements but are not the exclusive means of identifying such statements.  Forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertain­ties that may cause actual results to differ materially.  Factors that might cause such a difference include, but are not limited to:
 
(1)  
continued deterioration in the credit quality of Peoples’ loan portfolio could occur due to a number of factors, such as adverse changes in economic conditions that impair the ability of borrowers to repay their loans, the underlying value of the collateral could prove less valuable than otherwise assumed and assumed cash flows may be worse than expected, which may adversely impact the provision for loan losses;
(2)  
Peoples’ ability to deploy the capital received through the U.S. Treasury’s TARP Capital Purchase Program;
(3)  
competitive pressures among financial institutions or from non-financial institutions, which may increase significantly;
(4)  
changes in the interest rate environment, which may adversely impact interest margins;
(5)  
changes in prepayment speeds, loan originations, sale volumes and charge-offs, which may be less favorable than expected and adversely impact the amount of interest income generated;
(6)  
general economic conditions and weakening in the real estate market, either national or in the states in which Peoples and its subsidiaries do business, which may be less favorable than expected;
(7)  
political developments, wars or other hostilities, which may disrupt or increase volatility in securities markets or other economic conditions;
(8)  
legislative or regulatory changes or actions, which may adversely affect the business of Peoples and its subsidiaries;
(9)  
adverse changes in the conditions and trends in the financial markets, which may adversely affect the fair value of securities within Peoples’ investment portfolio;
(10)  
a delayed or incomplete resolution of regulatory issues that could arise;
(11)  
ability to receive dividends from its subsidiaries;
(12)  
Peoples’ ability to maintain required capital levels and adequate sources of funding and liquidity;
(13)  
changes in accounting standards, policies, estimates or practices, which may impact Peoples’ reported financial condition or results of operations;
(14)  
the impact of reputational risk created by these developments on such matters as business generation and retention, funding and liquidity;
(15)  
the costs and effects of regulatory and legal developments, including the outcome of regulatory or other governmental inquiries and legal proceedings and results of regulatory examinations; and
(16)  
other risk factors relating to the banking industry or Peoples as detailed from time to time in Peoples’ reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), including those risk factors included in the disclosure under the heading “ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS” of Part I of this Form 10-K.

All forward-looking statements speak only as of the filing date of this Form 10-K and are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements.  Although management believes the expectations in these forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions within the bounds of management’s knowledge of Peoples’ business and operations, it is possible that actual results may differ materially from these projections.  Additionally, Peoples undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the filing date of this Form 10-K or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events except as may be required by applicable legal requirements.  Copies of documents filed with the SEC are available free of charge at the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov and/or from Peoples Bancorp’s website.
 
 
Summary of Recent Transactions and Events
The following discussion and analysis of Peoples’ Consolidated Financial Statements is presented to provide insight into management's assessment of the financial results.  This discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the audited Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes thereto, as well as the ratios and statistics, contained elsewhere in this Form 10-K.
 
24

 
References will be found in this Form 10-K to the following transactions that have impacted or will impact Peoples’ results of operations:
 
·  
As described in “ITEM 1. BUSINESS-Recent Corporate Developments”, on January 30, 2009, Peoples received $39 million of new equity capital from the U.S. Treasury’s TARP Capital Purchase Program.  The investment was in the form of newly-issued non-voting cumulative perpetual preferred shares and a related 10-year warrant sold by Peoples to the U.S. Treasury (the “TARP Capital Investment”).
 
·  
As disclosed in a Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 12, 2009, management determined certain available-for-sale investment securities were other-than-temporarily impaired at December 31, 2008.  As a result, Peoples recorded a $4.0 million non-cash impairment charge in the fourth quarter of 2008, of which $2.0 million related to a single bank-issued trust preferred security previously carried at $2.0 million and $2.0 million related to four collateralized debt obligation (“CDO”) investments previously carried at $6.1 million.  These charges were based upon management’s evaluation of the credit quality of underlying issuers.  In comparison, Peoples recognized other-than-temporary impairment charges totaling $6.2 million in 2007, of which $3.2 million related to preferred stocks issued by the Federal National Mortgage Association (“Fannie Mae”) and the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (“Freddie Mac”) and $2.9 million related to the CDO investments.
 
·  
Between August 2007 and December 2008, the Federal Reserve’s Open Market Committee reduced the target Federal Funds rate 500 basis points and the Discount Rate 575 basis points.  These actions caused a corresponding downward shift in short-term interest rates, while longer-term rates have not decreased to the same extent.  This steepening of the yield curve has provided Peoples with opportunities to improve net interest income and margin by taking advantage of lower-cost funding available in the market place and reducing certain deposit costs.
 
·  
From mid-2004 through mid-2006, the Federal Reserve’s Open Market Committee increased the target Federal Funds rate by 425 basis points, causing short-term market interest rates to increase.  However, longer-term interest rates increased at a much slower pace, resulting in a flattened, and sometimes inverted, yield curve.  These conditions resulted in increases in Peoples’ funding costs that outpaced the improvement in asset yields.
 
·  
During 2008, Peoples’ loan quality was impacted by the contracting economy and commercial real estate market, which caused declines in commercial real estate values and deterioration in financial condition of various commercial borrowers.  These conditions led to Peoples downgrading the loan quality ratings on various commercial real estate loans through its normal loan review process.  In addition, several impaired loans became under-collateralized due to the reduction in the estimated net realizable fair value of the underlying collateral. As a result, Peoples experienced significant increases in provision for loan losses, including a $13.4 million fourth quarter provision, net charge-offs and nonperforming loans in 2008 compared to historical periods.
 
·  
During the fourth quarter of 2008, Peoples Bank sold its merchant credit card payment processing services to First Data Merchant Services Corporation (“First Data”).  Peoples Bank will continue to serve the credit card processing needs of its commercial customers through a referral program with First Data.  As a result of this transaction, Peoples recognized a pre-tax gain of $500,000 in the fourth quarter of 2008, which was not material to Peoples’ Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
·  
At the close of business on October 17, 2008, Peoples Bank completed the previously announced sale of its Grayson, Kentucky banking office to First National Bank of Grayson.  This sale was consistent with Peoples’ strategic plan to optimize its branch network for better growth opportunities.  Under the terms of the agreement, Peoples received $475,000 for the Grayson office’s $13.4 million of deposits and $220,000 of fixed assets and sold $2.0 million of loans at book value, resulting in a fourth quarter 2008 pre-tax gain of $255,000.  This sale was not material to Peoples’ Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
·  
During 2008, Peoples systematically sold the preferred stocks issued by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac held in its investment portfolio, due to the uncertainty surrounding these entities.  These securities had a total recorded value of $12.1 million at December 31, 2007.  In July 2008, Peoples sold its remaining Fannie Mae preferred stocks, which completely eliminated all equity holdings in Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.  As a result of the sales, Peoples recognized cumulative pre-tax losses of $1,243,000 ($808,000 after-tax) in 2008.
 
·  
Also during 2008, Peoples sold selected lower yielding, longer-term investment securities, primarily obligations of U.S. government-sponsored enterprises, U.S. agency mortgage-backed securities and tax-exempt municipal bonds, as well as several small-lot mortgage-backed securities.  The proceeds from these sales were reinvested into similar securities with less price risk volatility. These actions were intended to reposition the investment portfolio to reduce interest rate exposures and resulted in a cumulative pre-tax gain of $2.5 million in 2008, of which $1.5 million was recognized in the fourth quarter of 2008.
 
25

 
·  
As described in “ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS” of Peoples’ Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2007, in December 2007, Peoples resolved certain issues concerning its Ohio corporation franchise tax liability and associated calculations for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2001 through 2007 (the “Ohio Franchise Tax Settlement”).  As a result, Peoples’ franchise tax expense was reduced by $782,000 ($508,000, or $0.05 per diluted share, after-tax) during the fourth quarter of 2007.
 
·  
On April 23, 2007, Peoples repaid the entire $7.2 million of variable rate junior subordinated notes issued to and held by its subsidiary, PEBO Capital Trust II, which had a then current rate of 9.10%.  This redemption had minimal impact on Peoples’ regulatory capital ratios and produced a modest improvement in net interest income and margin, as the junior subordinated notes were replaced by lower cost borrowings.
 
·  
In 2006, Peoples Bank sold its banking offices located in Chesterhill, Ohio (the “Chesterhill Office”) and South Shore, Kentucky (the “South Shore Office”) as part of Peoples’ strategy to optimize its branch network by redirecting resources to markets that management believes have greater growth potential.  The sale of the South Shore Office included $4.6 million in deposits and approximately $600,000 of loans, while the sale of the Chesterhill Office involved $3.7 million of deposits.  The sales of these offices resulted in an aggregate pre-tax gain of $454,000 in 2006.  Concurrent with the sale of the Chesterhill Office, Peoples Bank acquired a full-service banking office located in Carroll, Ohio and its $5.4 million in deposits.  These transactions did not have a material impact on Peoples’ financial statements taken as a whole.
 
The impact of these transactions or events, where significant, is discussed in the applicable sections of this Management’s Discussion and Analysis.
 
 
Critical Accounting Policies
The accounting and reporting policies of Peoples conform to generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“US GAAP”) and to general practices within the financial services industry.  A summary of significant accounting policies is contained in Note 1 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.   While all of these policies are important to understanding the Consolidated Financial Statements, certain accounting policies require management to exercise judgment and make estimates or assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes.  These estimates and assumptions are based on information available as of the date of the financial statements; accordingly, as this information changes, the financial statements could reflect different estimates or assumptions.
 
Management views critical accounting policies to be those that are highly dependent on subjective or complex judgments, estimates and assumptions, and where changes in those estimates and assumptions could have a significant impact on the financial statements.  Management has identified the accounting policies described below as those that, due to the judgments, estimates and assumptions inherent in the policies, are critical to an understanding of Peoples’ Consolidated Financial Statements and management’s discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operation.
 
Income Recognition
Interest income on loans and investment securities is recognized by methods that result in level rates of return on principal amounts outstanding, including yield adjustments resulting from the amortization of loan costs and premiums on investment securities and accretion of loan fees and discounts on investment securities.  Since mortgage-backed securities comprise a sizable portion of Peoples’ investment portfolio, a significant increase in principal payments on those securities could impact interest income due to the corresponding acceleration of premium amortization or discount accretion.
 
In the event management believes collection of all or a portion of contractual interest on a loan has become doubtful, which generally occurs after the loan is 90 days past due, Peoples discontinues the accrual of interest.  In addition, previously accrued interest deemed uncollectible that was recognized in income in the current year is reversed, while amounts recognized in income in the prior year are charged against the allowance for loan losses.  Interest received on nonaccrual loans is included in income only if principal recovery is reasonably assured.  A nonaccrual loan is restored to accrual status after appropriate review by lending and/or loan review personnel indicates the collectibility of the total contractual principal and interest is no longer considered doubtful, among other criteria.
 
26

 
Allowance for Loan Losses
In general, determining the amount of the allowance for loan losses requires significant judgment and the use of estimates by management.  Peoples maintains an allowance for loan losses to absorb probable losses based on a quarterly analysis of the loan portfolio and estimation of the losses that are probable of occurrence within the loan portfolio.  This formal analysis determines an appropriate level and allocation of the allowance for loan losses among loan types and resulting provision for loan losses by considering factors affecting losses, including specific losses, levels and trends in impaired and nonperforming loans, historical loan loss experience, current national and local economic conditions, volume, growth and composition of the portfolio, regulatory guidance and other relevant factors.  Management continually monitors the loan portfolio through Peoples Bank’s Loan Review Department and Loan Loss Committee to evaluate the adequacy of the allowance.  The provision could increase or decrease each quarter based upon the results of management’s formal analysis.
 
The amount of the allowance for loan losses for the various loan types represents management’s estimate of expected losses from existing loans based upon specific allocations for individual lending relationships and historical loss experience for each category of homogeneous loans.  The allowance for loan losses related to impaired loans is 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.  This evaluation requires management to make estimates of the amounts and timing of future cash flows on impaired loans, which consist primarily of loans placed on nonaccrual status, restructured or internally classified as substandard or doubtful.  While allocations are made to specific loans and pools of loans, the allowance is available for all loan losses.
 
Individual loan reviews are based upon specific quantitative and qualitative criteria, including the size of the loan, the loan cash flow characteristics, loan quality ratings, value of collateral, repayment ability of borrowers, and historical experience factors.  The historical experience factors utilized for individual loan reviews are based upon past loss experience, known trends in losses and delinquencies, the growth of loans in particular markets and industries, and known changes in economic conditions in particular lending markets.  Allowances for homogeneous loans (such as residential mortgage loans, personal loans, etc.) are evaluated based upon historical loss experience, trends in losses and delinquencies, growth of loans in particular markets, and known changes in economic conditions in each lending market.  Consistent with the evaluation of allowances for homogenous loans, the allowance relating to the Overdraft Privilege program is based upon management’s monthly analysis of accounts in the program.  This analysis considers factors that could affect losses on existing accounts, including historical loss experience and length of overdraft.
 
There can be no assurance the allowance for loan losses will be adequate to cover all losses, but management believes the allowance for loan losses at December 31, 2008, was adequate to provide for probable losses from existing loans based on information currently available.  While management uses available information to provide for loan losses, the ultimate collectibility of a substantial portion of the loan portfolio, and the need for future additions to the allowance, will be based on changes in economic conditions and other relevant factors.  As such, adverse changes in economic activity could reduce cash flows for both commercial and individual borrowers, which would likely cause Peoples to experience increases in problem assets, delinquencies and losses on loans.
 
Investment Securities
Presently, Peoples classifies its entire investment portfolio, which accounted for 35% of total assets at December 31, 2008, as available-for-sale and records changes in the estimated fair value of the portfolio in stockholders’ equity as a component of comprehensive income.  As a result, both the investment and equity sections of Peoples’ Consolidated Balance Sheets are more sensitive to changes in the overall market value of the investment portfolio, due to changes in market interest rates, investor confidence and other factors affecting market values, than if the investment portfolio was classified as held-to-maturity.
 
While temporary changes in the fair value of available-for-sale securities are not recognized in earnings, a decline in fair value below amortized cost deemed to be “other-than-temporary” results in an adjustment to the cost basis of the investment, with a corresponding loss charged against earnings.  Management systematically evaluates Peoples’ investment securities on a quarterly basis to identify potential other-than-temporary losses.  This analysis requires management to consider various factors that can involve judgment and estimation, including duration and magnitude of the decline in value, the financial condition of the issuer or pool of issuers, structure of the security, and Peoples’ ability and intent to continue holding the investment for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in market value.
 
In 2008 and 2007, Peoples recognized other-than-temporary impairment charges on certain investment securities whose market value had declined due primarily to increased risks within the broader credit market and erratic market liquidity.  At December 31, 2008, there were no other investment securities identified by management to be other-than-temporarily impaired since Peoples had the ability and intent to hold those securities for a period of time sufficient to recover the amortized cost.  If investments decline in fair value due to adverse changes in the financial markets, charges to income could occur in future periods.
 
27

 
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
Over the past several years, Peoples has grown through mergers and acquisitions accounted for under the purchase method of accounting.  Under the purchase method, Peoples is required to allocate the cost of an acquired company to the assets acquired, including identified intangible assets, and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair values at the date of acquisition.  The excess cost over the net assets acquired represents goodwill, which is not subject to periodic amortization.
 
Customer relationship intangibles are required to be amortized over their estimated useful lives.  The method of amortization reflects the pattern in which the economic benefits of the intangible assets are estimated to be consumed or otherwise used up.  Since Peoples’ acquired customer relationships are subject to routine customer attrition, the relationships are more likely to produce greater benefits in the near-term than in the long-term, which typically supports the use of an accelerated method of amortization for the related intangible assets.  Management is required to evaluate the useful life of customer relationship intangibles to determine if events or circumstances warrant a change in the estimated life.  Should management determine the estimated life of any intangible asset is shorter than originally estimated, Peoples would adjust the amortization of that asset, which could increase future amortization expense.
 
Goodwill arising from business combinations represents the value attributable to unidentifiable intangible elements in the business acquired.  Goodwill recorded by Peoples in connection with its acquisitions relates to the inherent value in the businesses acquired and this value is dependent upon Peoples’ ability to provide quality, cost effective services in a competitive market place.  As such, goodwill value is supported ultimately by revenue that is driven by the volume of business transacted.  A decline in earnings as a result of a lack of growth or the inability to deliver cost effective services over sustained periods can lead to impairment of goodwill that could adversely impact earnings in future periods.
 
Peoples reviewed its recorded goodwill at December 31, 2008, and concluded no impairment existed since the fair value of the single reporting unit exceeded its carrying value.  Based on its most recently completed analysis, management believes a 20-25% sustained decline in future earnings would have to occur for any recorded goodwill to be considered impaired.  Other future events, such as adverse changes to Peoples’ business, could cause management to conclude that impairment indicators exist and require management to re-evaluate goodwill.    Should such re-evaluation determine goodwill is impaired, any resulting impairment loss recognized could have a material, adverse impact on Peoples’ financial condition and results of operations.
 
Peoples records mortgage servicing rights (“MSRs”) in connection with its mortgage banking activities, which are intangible assets representing the right to service loans sold to third party investors.  These intangible assets are recorded initially at fair value and subsequently amortized over the estimated life of the loans sold.  MSRs are assessed for impairment at each reporting date based on their fair value.  At December 31, 2008, management concluded no portion of the recorded MSRs was impaired since the fair value exceeded the carrying value.  However, future events, such as a significant increase in prepayment speeds, could result in a fair value that is less than the carrying amount, which would require the recognition of an impairment loss in earnings.
 
Income Taxes
Income taxes are provided based on the liability method of accounting, which includes the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the temporary differences between carrying amounts and tax basis of assets and liabilities, computed using enacted tax rates. The calculation of tax liabilities is complex and requires the use of estimates and judgment since it involves the application of complex tax laws that are subject to different interpretations by Peoples and the various tax authorities.  These interpretations are subject to challenge by the tax authorities upon audit or to reinterpretation based on management’s ongoing assessment of facts and evolving case law.
 
From time-to-time and in the ordinary course of business, Peoples is involved in inquiries and reviews by tax authorities that normally require management to provide supplemental information to support certain tax positions taken by Peoples in its tax returns.  Uncertain tax positions are initially recognized in the financial statements when it is more likely than not the position will be sustained upon examination by the tax authorities.  Such tax positions are initially and subsequently measured as the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement with the tax authority assuming full knowledge of the position and all relevant facts.  Management believes that it has taken appropriate positions on its tax returns, although the ultimate outcome of any tax review cannot be predicted with certainty.  Still, no assurance can be given that the final outcome of these matters will not be different than what is reflected in the current and historical financial statements.
 
28

 
Fair Value Measurements
As a financial services company, the carrying value of certain financial assets and liabilities is impacted by the application of fair value measurements, either directly or indirectly.  In certain cases, an asset or liability is measured and reported at fair value on a recurring basis, such as available-for-sale investment securities.  In other cases, management must rely on estimates or judgments to determine if an asset or liability not measured at fair value warrants an impairment write-down or whether a valuation reserve should be established.  Given the inherent volatility, the use of fair value measurements may have a significant impact on the carrying value of assets or liabilities, or result in material changes to the financial statements, from period to period.
 
Detailed information regarding fair value measurements can be found in Note 2 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.  The following is a summary of those assets and liabilities that may be affected by fair value measurements, as well as a brief description of the current accounting practices and valuation methodologies employed by Peoples:
 
Available-for-Sale Investment Securities
Investment securities classified as available-for-sale are measured and reported at fair value on a recurring basis.  For most securities, the fair value is based upon quoted market prices or determined by pricing models that consider observable market data.  However, the fair value of certain investment securities, such as collateralized debt obligations, must be based upon unobservable market data, such as non-binding broker quotes and discounted cash flow analysis or similar models, due to the absence of an active market for these securities.  As a result, management’s determination of fair value for these securities is highly dependent on subjective or complex judgments, estimates and assumptions, which could change materially between periods.  Management occasionally uses information from independent third-party consultants in its determination of the fair value of more complex investment securities, such as the collateralized debt obligations.  At December 31, 2008, nearly all of Peoples’ available-for-sale investment securities were measured using observable market data, with less than 1% measured using non-observable data.
 
Impaired loans
For loans considered impaired, the amount of impairment loss recognized is determined based on a discounted cash flow analysis or the fair value of the underlying collateral if repayment is expected solely from the sale of the collateral.  Management typically relies on the fair value of the underlying collateral due to the significant uncertainty surrounding the borrower’s ability to make future payments.  The vast majority of the collateral securing impaired loans is real estate, although it may also include accounts receivable and equipment, inventory or similar personal property.  The fair value of the collateral used by management represents the estimated proceeds to be received from the sale of the collateral, less costs incurred during the sale, based upon observable market data and market value data provided by independent, licensed or certified appraisers.
 
Goodwill
Goodwill is not amortized but is tested for impairment at least annually.  Potential goodwill impairment exists when the fair value of the reporting unit (as defined by US GAAP) is less than its carrying value.  Peoples currently possesses a single reporting unit for goodwill impairment testing.  While quoted market prices exist for Peoples’ common shares since they are publicly traded, these market prices do not necessarily reflect the value associated with gaining control of an entity.  Thus, management takes into account all appropriate fair value measurements in determining the estimated fair value of the reporting unit.  These measurements include valuations of recently acquired institutions based upon multiples of book value or earnings and discounted cash flow analysis.
 
Should management determine the potential for goodwill impairment exists, the measurement of any actual impairment loss requires management to calculate the implied fair value of goodwill by deducting the fair value of all tangible and separately identifiable intangible net assets (including unrecognized intangible assets) from the fair value of the reporting unit.  This process involves highly subjective or complex judgments, estimates and assumptions.  As a result, changes to these judgments, estimates and assumptions in future periods could result in materially different results.
 
Mortgage Servicing Rights  
MSRs are carried at the lower of cost or market value, and, therefore, can be subject to fair value measurements on a nonrecurring basis.  MSRs do not trade in an active market with readily observable prices.  Thus, management determines fair value based upon a valuation model that calculates the present value of estimated future net servicing income provided by an independent third-party consultant.  This valuation model is affected by various input factors, such as servicing costs, expected prepayment speeds and discount rates, which are subject to change between reporting periods.  As a result, significant changes to these factors could result in a material change to the calculated fair value of MSRs.
 
29

 
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans
Peoples is required to recognize the funded status of defined benefit pension and other postretirement benefit plans on its Consolidated Balance Sheet as an asset for a plan’s overfunded status or a liability for a plan’s underfunded status, with fluctuations in the funded status recognized through comprehensive income in the year in which the change occurs.  The funded status is based upon the fair value of plan assets compared to the projected benefit obligation.  The determination of the projected benefit obligation and periodic benefit costs involves significant judgment and estimation of employees’ length of service and future compensation levels, discount rate and expected rate of return on plan assets.  While these variables are equally important, changes to the discount rate can have a greater impact on the projected benefit obligation, and thus the amount of the asset or liability recognized, as well as the amount of pension plan expense recorded each period.
 

 
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

In 2008, Peoples’ net income was $7.5 million, compared to $18.3 million for 2007 and $21.6 million for 2006, while diluted earnings per share were $0.72, $1.74 and $2.01, respectively.  The lower earnings in 2008 reflects the challenging conditions within the financial services industry due to the contracting economy and commercial real estate market, which resulted in higher provision for loan losses.  Earnings for both 2008 and 2007 were impacted by the other-than-temporary impairment charges on available-for-sale investment securities.  Despite these challenges, Peoples generated positive results in several key areas, including growth and diversification of revenues, expansion of retail deposits and expense control.
 
Net interest income increased 8% to $58.5 million in 2008, while net interest margin expanded 19 basis points to 3.51%.  These improvements were driven by lower short-term market rates and resulted in a greater reduction in Peoples’ funding costs in comparison to asset yields.  Net interest income and margin also benefited from retail deposit growth in 2008, which has allowed Peoples to reduce the amount of higher-cost wholesale funding.  In 2007, both net interest income and margin were up compared to 2006, primarily attributable to higher market interest rates during most of 2007.
 
Non-interest income totaled $32.1 million in 2008, versus $31.4 million in 2007 and $30.4 million in 2006.  Peoples experienced growth in several areas in 2008, which were partially offset by lower mortgage banking income.  The largest increase in 2008 occurred in electronic banking income, which increased 10% due to sustained growth in debit card activity.  In 2007, the combination of higher trust and investment income and electronic banking income was partially offset by lower deposit account service charges.
 
Total non-interest expense was $53.5 million in 2008 compared to $51.5 million in 2007, due largely to a combination of normal base salary adjustments, higher employee medical benefit costs, increased FDIC insurance expense and the impact of the Ohio Franchise Tax Settlement on 2007 franchise tax expense.  Compared to 2006, total non-interest expense was essentially unchanged in 2007, as higher salaries and employee benefit costs of $1.4 million were offset by decreases in several other major expense categories, including franchise taxes.
 
At December 31, 2008, total assets were $2.00 billion, up $116.8 million compared to year-end 2007.  Gross portfolio loan balances decreased $16.9 million in 2008, due primarily to normal commercial loan payoffs and the impact of charge-offs in 2008.  Total investment securities increased to $708.8 million at December 31, 2008, versus $565.5 million at year-end 2007, with most of the increase occurring during the fourth quarter in response to deposit growth.  Another contributing factor to the increase was the purchase of securities during the first half of 2008 intended to offset the impact of loan payoffs and charge-offs.
 
Total liabilities were $1.82 billion at December 31, 2008, up $133.0 million compared to December 31, 2007.  Total deposit balances increased $180.0 million in 2008, due mostly to higher interest-bearing retail balances from Peoples attracting approximately $108 million of funds from customers outside its primary market area.  This growth enabled Peoples to reduce higher rate brokered certificates of deposit balances by $15.5 million and contributed to the $47.3 million reduction in borrowed funds since year-end 2007.
 
Total stockholders’ equity decreased $16.2 million in 2008, to $186.6 million at year-end 2008.  This decline was largely attributable to a $15.3 million reduction in accumulated comprehensive income due mostly to the change in fair value of the available-for-sale investment portfolio.  Despite this decrease and higher loan losses in 2008, Peoples’ regulatory capital ratios remained relatively stable and significantly above amounts needed to be considered well capitalized by banking regulations.  At December 31, 2008, Peoples’ Tier 1 and Total Risk-Based capital ratios were 11.88% and 13.19%, respectively, compared to the prior year ratios of 11.91% and 13.23%, respectively, while the ratio of tangible equity to tangible assets was 6.21% at year-end 2008.  These strong capital positions allowed Peoples to increase dividends to shareholders during 2008.
 
30

 
RESULTS OF OPERATION
 
Interest Income and Expense
Peoples earns interest income on loans and investments and incurs interest expense on interest-bearing deposits and borrowed funds.  Net interest income, the amount by which interest income exceeds interest expense, remains Peoples’ largest source of revenue.  The amount of net interest income earned by Peoples is affected by various factors, including changes in market interest rates due to the Federal Reserve Board’s monetary policy, the level and degree of pricing competition for both loans and deposits in Peoples markets and the amount and composition of Peoples’ earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities.
 
Peoples monitors net interest income performance and manages its balance sheet composition through regular Asset-Liability Management Committee (“ALCO”) meetings.  The asset/liability management process employed by the ALCO is intended to minimize the impact of future interest rate changes on Peoples’ net interest income and earnings.  However, the frequency and/or magnitude of changes in market interest rates are difficult to predict, and may have a greater impact on net interest income than adjustments by management.
 
As part of the analysis of net interest income, management converts tax-exempt income to the pre-tax equivalent of taxable income using an effective tax rate of 35%.  Management believes the resulting fully tax-equivalent (“FTE”) net interest income allows for a more meaningful comparison of tax-exempt income and yields to their taxable equivalents.  Net interest margin, calculated by dividing FTE net interest income by average interest-earning assets, serves as the primary measure used in evaluating the net revenue stream generated by the mix and pricing of Peoples’ earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities.
 
The following table details Peoples’ average balance sheet for the years ended December 31:
 
       
2008
           
2007
           
2006
   
   
Average
 
Income/
 
Yield/
   
Average
 
Income/
 
Yield/
   
Average
 
Income/
 
Yield/
(Dollars in thousands)
 
Balance
 
Expense
 
Rate
   
Balance
 
Expense
 
Rate
   
Balance
 
Expense
 
Rate
Short-Term Investments:
                                       
Deposits with other banks
 
 $        2,363
 
 $        53
 
2.26%
   
 $        2,435
 
 $      115
 
4.72%
   
 $        2,378
 
 $      100
 
4.21%
Federal funds sold
 
              508
 
           12
 
2.36%
   
           1,077
 
           55
 
5.11%
   
           1,595
 
           80
 
5.02%
  Total short-term investments
 
           2,871
 
           65
 
2.28%
   
           3,512
 
         170
 
4.84%
   
           3,973
 
         180
 
4.53%
Investment Securities (1):
                                       
Taxable
 
       549,687
 
    29,106
 
5.30%
   
       503,094
 
    25,646
 
5.10%
   
       505,586
 
    24,417
 
4.83%
Nontaxable (2)
 
         65,624
 
      4,289
 
6.54%
   
         60,368
 
      3,949
 
6.54%
   
         67,454
 
      4,411
 
6.54%
  Total investment securities
 
       615,311
 
    33,395
 
5.43%
   
       563,462
 
    29,595
 
5.25%
   
       573,040
 
    28,828
 
5.03%
Loans (3):
                                       
Commercial
 
       744,584
 
    48,291
 
6.49%
   
       750,906
 
    57,613
 
7.67%
   
       726,702
 
    54,181
 
7.46%
Real estate (4)
 
       283,285
 
    19,221
 
6.79%
   
       292,867
 
    20,985
 
7.17%
   
       311,772
 
    21,467
 
6.89%
Consumer
 
         85,378
 
      6,861
 
8.04%
   
         79,035
 
      6,552
 
8.29%
   
         70,101
 
      5,808
 
8.29%
  Total loans
 
    1,113,247
 
    74,373
 
6.69%
   
    1,122,808
 
    85,150
 
7.58%
   
    1,108,575
 
    81,456
 
7.35%
Less: Allowance for loan loss
 
       (17,428)
           
       (14,775)
           
       (15,216)
       
  Net loans
 
    1,095,819
 
    74,373
 
6.79%
   
    1,108,033
 
    85,150
 
7.68%
   
    1,093,359
 
    81,456
 
7.45%
    Total earning assets
 
    1,714,001
 
  107,833
 
6.29%
   
    1,675,007
 
  114,915
 
6.86%
   
    1,670,372
 
  110,464
 
6.61%
Intangible assets
 
         67,203
           
         68,440
           
         68,940
       
Other assets
 
       128,798
           
       128,670
           
       129,718
       
    Total assets
 
 $ 1,910,002
           
 $ 1,872,117
           
 $ 1,869,030
       

31


       
2008
           
2007
           
2006
   
   
Average
 
Income/
 
Yield/
   
Average
 
Income/
 
Yield/
   
Average
 
Income/
 
Yield/
(Dollars in thousands)
 
Balance
 
Expense
 
Rate
   
Balance
 
Expense
 
Rate
   
Balance
 
Expense
 
Rate
Deposits:
                                       
Savings
 
 $    114,651
 
 $      583
 
0.51%
   
 $    113,629
 
 $      725
 
0.64%
   
 $    122,682
 
 $      806
 
0.66%
Interest-bearing transaction
 
       199,639
 
      3,578
 
1.79%
   
       179,827
 
      3,841
 
2.14%
   
       180,419
 
      3,312
 
1.84%
Money market
 
       168,075
 
      3,482
 
2.07%
   
       147,565
 
      5,647
 
3.83%
   
       122,053
 
      4,404
 
3.61%
Brokered time
 
         39,151
 
      1,843
 
4.71%
   
         65,461
 
      3,364
 
5.14%
   
         75,182
 
      3,540
 
4.71%
Retail time
 
       561,143
 
    21,824
 
3.89%
   
       521,506
 
    23,398
 
4.49%
   
       501,656
 
    20,199
 
4.03%
  Total interest-bearing deposits
 
    1,082,659
 
    31,310
 
2.89%
   
    1,027,988
 
    36,975
 
3.60%
   
    1,001,992
 
    32,261
 
3.22%
Borrowed Funds:
                                       
Short-term:
                                       
FHLB advances
 
       102,146
 
      2,557
 
2.46%
   
       197,915
 
    10,065
 
5.09%
   
       178,235
 
      9,067
 
5.09%
Retail repurchase agreements
 
         40,524
 
         826
 
2.00%
   
         34,802
 
      1,528
 
4.39%
   
         31,481
 
      1,306
 
4.15%
Wholesale repurchase agreements
 
                -
 
           -
 
0.00%
   
           4,425
 
         242
 
5.47%
   
           1,246
 
           70
 
5.62%
  Total short-term borrowings
 
       142,670
 
      3,383
 
2.37%
   
       237,142
 
    11,835
 
4.93%
   
       210,962
 
    10,443
 
4.95%
Long-term:
                                       
FHLB advances
 
       116,176
 
      4,856
 
4.18%
   
         71,153
 
      3,256
 
4.58%
   
       127,981
 
      5,545
 
4.33%
Wholesale repurchase agreements
 
       148,251
 
      6,223
 
4.13%
   
       124,191
 
      5,257
 
4.23%
   
       114,768
 
      4,035
 
3.52%
Other borrowings
 
         22,478
 
      1,976
 
8.65%
   
         24,571
 
      2,175
 
8.73%
   
         39,990
 
      3,293
 
8.23%
  Total long-term borrowings
 
       286,905
 
    13,055
 
4.55%
   
       219,915
 
    10,688
 
4.81%
   
       282,739
 
    12,873
 
4.55%
  Total borrowed funds
 
       429,575
 
    16,438
 
3.78%
   
       457,057
 
    22,523
 
4.87%
   
       493,701
 
    23,316
 
4.72%
Total interest-bearing liabilities
 
    1,512,234
 
    47,748
 
3.15%
   
    1,485,045
 
    59,498
 
3.99%
   
    1,495,693
 
    55,577
 
3.72%
Non-interest-bearing deposits
 
       180,973
           
       172,571
           
       167,440
       
Other liabilities
 
         13,892
           
         15,707
           
         15,604
       
    Total liabilities
 
    1,707,099
           
    1,673,323
           
    1,678,737
       
    Total stockholders’ equity
 
       202,903
           
       198,794
           
       190,293
       
    Total liabilities and
                                       
     stockholders’ equity
 
 $ 1,910,002
           
 $ 1,872,117
           
 $ 1,869,030
       
Interest rate spread
     
 $ 60,085
 
3.14%
       
 $ 55,417
 
2.87%
       
 $ 54,887
 
2.89%
Interest income/earning assets
         
6.29%
           
6.86%
           
6.61%
Interest expense/earning assets
         
2.78%
           
3.54%
           
3.32%
Net interest margin
         
3.51%
           
3.32%
           
3.29%

(1)  
Average balances are based on carrying value.
(2)  
Interest income and yields are presented on a fully tax-equivalent basis using a 35% Federal statutory tax rate.
(3)  
Nonaccrual and impaired loans are included in the average loan balances.  Related interest income earned on nonaccrual loans prior to the loan being placed on nonaccrual is included in loan interest income.  Loan fees included in interest income were immaterial for all periods presented.
(4)  
Loans held for sale are included in the average loan balance listed.  Related interest income on loans originated for sale prior to the loan being sold is included in loan interest income.
 

The following table details the calculation of FTE net interest income for the years ended December 31:
(Dollars in thousands)
2008
 
2007
 
2006
Net interest income, as reported
 $       58,479
 
 $       53,921
 
 $       53,217
Taxable equivalent adjustments
            1,606
 
            1,496
 
            1,670
    Fully tax-equivalent net interest income
 $     60,085
 
 $     55,417
 
 $     54,887


32


The following table provides an analysis of the changes in net interest income:

(Dollars in thousands)
Change from 2007 to 2008 (1)
 
Change from 2006 to 2007 (1)
Increase (decrease) in:
Rate
Volume
Total
 
Rate
Volume
Total
INTEREST INCOME:
             
Short-term investments
 $          (81)
 $          (24)
 $        (105)
 
 $            12
 $          (22)
 $          (10)
Investment Securities: (2)
             
Taxable
          1,037
          2,423
          3,460
 
          1,350
           (121)
          1,229
Nontaxable
                 -
             340
             340
 
                 2
           (464)
           (462)
  Total investment income
          1,037
          2,763
          3,800
 
          1,352
           (585)
             767
Loans:
             
Commercial
        (8,839)
           (483)
        (9,322)
 
          1,599
          1,833
          3,432
Real estate
        (1,086)
           (678)
        (1,764)
 
             851
        (1,333)
           (482)
Consumer
           (203)
             512
             309
 
                 3
             741
             744
  Total loan income
      (10,128)
           (649)
      (10,777)
 
          2,453
          1,241
          3,694
    Total interest income
        (9,172)
          2,090
        (7,082)
 
          3,817
             634
          4,451
INTEREST EXPENSE:
             
Deposits:
             
Savings deposits
           (149)
                 7
           (142)
 
             (23)
             (58)
             (81)
Interest-bearing transaction
           (660)
             397
           (263)
 
             540
             (11)
             529
Money market
        (2,867)
             702
        (2,165)
 
             279
             964
          1,243
Brokered time
           (262)
        (1,259)
        (1,521)
 
             306
           (482)
           (176)
Retail time
        (3,272)
          1,698
        (1,574)
 
          2,376
             823
          3,199
  Total deposit cost
        (7,210)
          1,545
        (5,665)
 
          3,478
          1,236
          4,714
Borrowed funds:
             
Short-term borrowings
        (4,924)
        (3,528)
        (8,452)
 
               86
          1,306
          1,392
Long-term borrowings
           (441)
          2,808
          2,367
 
             823
        (3,008)
        (2,185)
  Total borrowed funds cost
        (5,365)
           (720)
        (6,085)
 
             909
        (1,702)
           (793)
    Total interest expense
      (12,575)
             825
      (11,750)
 
          4,387
           (466)
          3,921
    Net interest income
 $       3,403
 $       1,265
 $       4,668
 
 $        (570)
 $       1,100
 $          530

(1)  
The change in interest due to both rate and volume has been allocated to volume and rate changes in proportion to the   relationship of the dollar amounts of the change in each.
(2)  
Presented on a fully tax-equivalent basis.
 
The ability of financial institutions, including Peoples, to maintain and/or grow net interest income in both 2008 and 2007 has been impacted by the extreme changes in market interest rates and slope of the yield curve in response to monetary actions by the Federal Reserve.  These events have produced disproportionate changes in Peoples’ asset yields and funding costs, thereby impacting the amount of net interest income generated.
 
During the recent periods of changing interest rate conditions, Peoples has actively managed its balance sheet and interest rate risk profile to minimize the impact on earnings.  These actions have included adjusting the mix of earning assets and funding sources when opportunities were presented from loan demand and retail deposit growth.  However, significant commercial loan payoffs during the second half of 2007 and an elevated level of charge-offs in 2008 have hampered management’s efforts and necessitated growing the investment portfolio in order to maintain interest income levels.  In addition, retail deposit growth during the fourth quarter of 2008 resulted in excess funds that were used to purchase investment securities.  This expansion of the investment portfolio has contributed to the reduction in overall yield on earning assets, considering investment securities purchased by Peoples carry lower yields compared to loans originated.
 
Retail deposit growth in 2007 and 2008 allowed Peoples to reduce the amount of, and reliance on, wholesale funding sources that typically carry higher market rates of interest.  These efforts, coupled with lower short-term interest rates, produced a lower overall cost of funds in 2008.  During most of 2007, Peoples’ funding costs increased due to matured deposits and borrowings being replaced at the higher market rates that existed.  However, management controlled the overall increase in funding costs by adjusting the mix of wholesale funding by repaying higher-costing funds, such as the junior subordinated notes held by PEBO Capital Trust II, using other lower cost borrowings.
 
In the later half of 2007, Peoples’ funding costs benefited from management reducing certain deposit rates and taking advantage of lower cost funding available in the market place in response to the Federal Reserve’s actions to decrease short-term interest rates.  Management also initiated a strategy in the second half of 2007 designed to reduce the impact of repricing large blocks of funding by systematically borrowing funds in a given maturity range over a period of time thus creating a stream of smaller future maturities.  This strategy accounted for much of the increase in average long-term borrowings in 2008 compared to prior periods.
 
33

 
Detailed information regarding changes in Peoples’ Consolidated Balance Sheets can be found under appropriate captions of the “FINANCIAL CONDITION” section of this discussion.  Additional information regarding Peoples’ interest rate risk and the potential impact of interest rate changes on Peoples’ results of operations and financial condition can be found later in this discussion under the caption “Interest Rate Sensitivity and Liquidity”.
 
 
Provision for Loan Losses
The following table details Peoples’ provision for loan losses:
 
(Dollars in thousands)
2008
 
2007
 
2006
Provision for checking account overdrafts
          1,125
 
             558
 
             712
Provision for other loan losses
        26,515
 
          3,401
 
          2,910
    Total provision for loan losses
 $   27,640
 
 $     3,959
 
 $     3,622
           
As a percentage of average gross loans
2.48%
 
0.35%
 
0.33%
 
The provision for loan losses is based on management’s formal quarterly evaluation of the loan portfolio and analysis of the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses described in the “Critical Accounting Policies” section of this discussion. This analysis considers various factors that affect losses, such as changes in Peoples’ loan quality, historical loss experience and current economic conditions.
 
The higher provision for loan losses in 2008 compared to prior periods reflects an increase in the allowance for loan losses throughout most of the year in response to changes in loan quality, coupled with losses on impaired loans from declines in commercial real estate values.  In the fourth quarter of 2008, Peoples recorded a provision for loan losses of $13.4 million, compared to $6.0 million and $1.5 million for the third quarter of 2008 and fourth quarter of 2007, respectively.  Approximately $6.1 million, or 45%, of the fourth quarter 2008 provision was attributed to continued deterioration in loan quality within the commercial loan portfolio, while another $5.8 million, or 43%, was due to continued declines in commercial real estate collateral values.  The provision for loan losses for both 2007 and 2006 were higher than historical levels from losses associated with a limited number of larger loan relationships.
 
Additional information regarding changes in the allowance for loan losses and loan credit quality can be found later in this discussion under the caption “Allowance for Loan Losses”.
 
 
Non-Interest Income
Peoples generates non-interest income, which excludes gains and losses on investments and assets, from six primary sources: deposit account service charges, trust and investment activities, insurance sales revenues, electronic banking (“e-banking”), mortgage banking and bank owned life insurance (“BOLI”).
 
In recent years, Peoples has placed increased emphasis on reducing its reliance on net interest income by growing non-interest income, especially fee-based revenues not affected by interest rate changes, and, thus, diversifying its revenue stream.  While this focus has resulted in enhanced non-interest income, the downturn in the market values of investments during 2008 has impacted fiduciary and brokerage revenues and restrained the overall increase in total revenues.  In addition, insurance revenues in both 2007 and 2008 have been challenged by tighter pricing margins within the insurance industry caused by insurance companies reducing premiums to attract market share.  As a result, non-interest income accounted for 35.4% of Peoples’ total revenues in 2008, compared to 36.8% in 2007 and 36.3% in 2006.
 
        Service charges and other fees on deposit accounts, which are based on the recovery of costs associated with services provided, comprised the largest portion of Peoples’ non-interest revenue.  Management periodically evaluates its cost recovery fees to ensure they are reasonable based on operational costs and similar to fees charged in Peoples’ markets by competitors.  The following table details Peoples’ deposit account service charges:
 
(Dollars in thousands)
2008
 
2007
 
2006
Overdraft fees
 $       7,356
 
 $       6,818
 
 $       6,868
Non-sufficient funds fees
          1,682
 
          1,965
 
          2,107
Other fees and charges
          1,099
 
          1,107
 
          1,240
    Total deposit account service charges
 $   10,137
 
 $     9,890
 
 $   10,215

34


The amount of deposit account service charges, particularly overdraft and non-sufficient funds fees, is largely dependent on the timing and volume of customer activity.  As a result, the amount ultimately recognized by Peoples can fluctuate from period to period.  The lower deposit account service charges in 2007 were caused by higher than normal fee waivers early in the year.  Fee waivers moderated in the second half of 2007, which contributed to the increased amount of deposit account service charges in 2008.
 
Insurance income also comprises a significant portion of Peoples’ total non-interest income.  The following table details Peoples’ insurance income:
 
(Dollars in thousands)
2008
 
2007
 
2006
Property and casualty insurance commissions
 $     7,982
 
 $     7,997
 
 $     7,765
Life and health insurance commissions
           645
 
           596
 
           568
Credit life and A&H insurance commissions
           175
 
           158
 
           164
Performance based commissions
           864
 
           817
 
        1,041
Other fees and charges
           236
 
           133
 
             81
    Total insurance income
 $    9,902
 
 $    9,701
 
 $    9,619

Property and casualty insurance sales remain the major component of Peoples’ insurance activities.  The related commission revenues remained stable in 2008 and 2007, as increased production more than offset the impact of lower pricing margins within the insurance industry.  The bulk of the performance based commission income is received annually by Peoples during the first quarter and is based on a combination of factors, including loss experience of insurance policies sold, production volumes and overall financial performance of the insurance industry during the preceding year.  As a result, the amount of contingent income recognized by Peoples is difficult to predict and could fluctuate from year to year.
 
Peoples’ trust and investment income is comprised of revenue generated from its fiduciary activities and the sale of investment services.  The following tables detail Peoples’ trust and investment income and managed assets:
 
(Dollars in thousands)
2008
 
2007
 
2006
Fiduciary
 $       4,113
 
 $       4,099
 
 $       3,508
Brokerage
          1,026
 
             884
 
             750
    Total trust and investment income
 $     5,139
 
 $     4,983
 
 $     4,258
 
(Dollars in thousands)
2008
 
2007
 
2006
Trust assets under management
 $       685,705
 
 $       797,443
 
 $     736,745
Brokerage assets under management
        184,301
 
        223,950
 
      195,617
    Total managed assets
 $     870,006
 
 $ 1,021,393
 
 $  932,362
 
Both fiduciary and brokerage revenues are based in part on the value of assets under management.  Over the last several quarters, Peoples has been successful in attracting new clients and during 2008 attracted over $50 million in new assets, which generated additional revenues in 2008.  However, the downturn in the financial markets in the second half of 2008 caused the decline in asset value since year-end 2007.
 
Peoples’ e-banking services include ATM and debit cards, direct deposit services and Internet banking, and serve as alternative delivery channels to traditional sales offices for providing services to clients.  In 2008 and 2007, Peoples’ e-banking income experienced double-digit year-over-year growth, increasing 10% and 14%, respectively, as the result of sustained growth in debit card activity.  At December 31, 2008, Peoples had 39,279 deposit relationships with debit cards, or 57% of all eligible deposit accounts, compared to 37,427 relationships, or 53% of eligible accounts, at year-end 2007 and 35,896 relationships, or 52% of eligible accounts at December 31, 2006.  In 2008, Peoples’ customers used their debit cards to complete $272 million of transactions, versus $231 million in 2007 and $194 million in 2006, representing increases of 17% and 18%, respectively.
 
Peoples’ mortgage banking income is comprised mostly of net gains from the origination and sale of long-term, fixed-rate real estate loans to the secondary market and is largely dependent on customer demand and interest rates in general.  In 2008, Peoples experienced decreased mortgage banking activity, due largely to conditions in the real estate market and economy as a whole, while in 2007, mortgage-banking income increased 7%, from a higher volume of loans sold.
 
Income generated by Peoples’ BOLI investment serves to enhance operating efficiency by partially offsetting rising employee benefit costs.  Changes in the interest rate environment can have an impact on the associated investment funds and thus the amount of BOLI income recognized by Peoples.  Management monitors the performance of Peoples’ BOLI and may make adjustments to improve the income streams and overall performance.  Still, management believes BOLI provides a better long-term vehicle for funding future employee benefit costs, and offsetting the related expense, than alternative investment opportunities with similar risk characteristics.
 
 
Non-Interest Expense
Salaries and employee benefit costs represent Peoples’ largest non-interest expense, accounting for over 50% of total non-interest expense, which is inherent in a service-based industry such as financial services.
 
The following table details Peoples’ salaries and employee benefit costs:
(Dollars in thousands)
2008
 
2007
 
2006
Salaries and wages
 $    18,386
 
 $   17,403
 
 $   17,013
Sales-based and incentive compensation
         3,672
 
        3,985
 
        3,373
Employee benefits
         3,983
 
        3,574
 
        3,481
Stock-based compensation
            498
 
           391
 
           280
Payroll taxes and other employment-related costs
         1,982
 
        2,199
 
        2,031
    Total salaries and employee benefit costs
 $  28,521
 
 $ 27,552
 
 $ 26,178
           
Full-time equivalent employees:
         
Actual at December 31
            546
 
           559
 
           547
Average during the year
            552
 
           554
 
           539
 
Normal base salary adjustments produced higher salaries and wages in both 2008 and 2007, although larger deferrals of salaries attributed to loan origination costs offset much of the impact on 2007’s expense.  The majority of the sales-based and incentive compensation is attributable to Peoples’ insurance and investment sales activities.  While Peoples has incurred higher insurance and investment sales-based compensation in both 2008 and 2007, the additional expense in 2008 was more than offset by lower incentive plan expense tied to Peoples’ full year 2008 results of operation.  Peoples’ employee benefit costs have been impacted by a steady increase in employee medical benefit costs in recent years.  These increases have been tempered by lower pension costs.
 
Stock-based compensation expense reflects the impact of equity-based incentive awards to employees and directors since January 1, 2006.  Compensation expense is generally recognized over the vesting period, which is typically three years for most awards to employees.  However, Peoples must immediately recognize the entire expense for awards to employees who are eligible for retirement at the grant date.  As a result, the amount of stock-based compensation expense recognized annually is impacted by several factors, including the level and types of awards granted, the grant date fair value and length of the requisite service periods.  Additional information regarding Peoples’ stock-based compensation plans and awards can be found in Note 17 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
Peoples’ net occupancy and equipment expense was comprised of the following:
 
(Dollars in thousands)
2008
 
2007
 
2006
Depreciation
 $       2,066
 
 $       2,061
 
 $       2,128
Repairs and maintenance costs
          1,452
 
          1,386
 
          1,313
Net rent expense
             671
 
             660
 
             630
Property taxes, utilities and other costs
          1,351
 
          1,191
 
          1,181
    Total net occupancy and equipment expense
 $     5,540
 
 $     5,298
 
 $     5,252

Depreciation expense, although flat in 2008, decreased in 2007 due to existing assets becoming fully depreciated, coupled with fewer shorter-lived assets, such as computers and other office equipment, being placed in service. Peoples incurred higher property taxes as a result of normal increases in assessed values and increased utility costs from rising energy costs in 2008.  Management continues to monitor capital expenditures and explore opportunities to enhance Peoples’ operating efficiency.
 
In 2007 and 2008, FDIC insurance expense was impacted by the utilization of a one-time credit of $1.0 million received in 2007.  This credit was received in connection with other changes to the deposit insurance system and to offset future insurance premiums, subject to certain limitations.  Peoples utilized $0.5 million of this credit during 2007 and the remainder during the first nine months of 2008.  As a result, FDIC insurance expense was $219,000 for the fourth quarter of 2008 versus $55,000 for the third quarter of 2008.
 
Peoples’ intangible asset amortization expense decreased in both 2008 and 2007 from the use of an accelerated method of amortization for its customer-related intangibles.  As a result, amortization expense will continue to be lower in subsequent years based on the intangible assets included on Peoples’ Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2008.
 
Professional fees and other third-party services, which include accounting, legal and other professional expenses, declined 2% in 2008 and 9% in 2007.  These reductions were due to an overall lower utilization of external legal and consulting services.  During 2006, Peoples incurred additional professional fees related to the review and administration of various employee benefit plans, which also contributed to the overall decrease in 2007.
 
Marketing and public relations expense, which includes the cost of advertising, public relations and charitable contributions, decreased over the last two years from a reduction in costs associated with Peoples’ direct mail and gift campaigns initiated in late 2005.  Management believes 2009 marketing expense will be comparable to 2008’s expense.
 
Peoples’ e-banking expense, which is comprised of bankcard and internet-based banking costs, increased in both 2007 and 2008 as a result of customers completing a larger percentage of their transactions using their debit cards and Peoples’ internet banking service.  These factors have also produced a greater increase in the corresponding e-banking revenues over the same periods.  Overall, management believes e-banking expense levels are reasonable considering Peoples’ e-banking services have generated higher net revenues and have helped to improve overall relationship profitability, due to the lower transaction costs incurred by Peoples.
 
Peoples is subject to franchise taxes, which are based largely on Peoples Bank’s equity at year-end, in the states where it has a physical presence.  Overall, state franchise taxes have remained consistent over the last two years, from relatively stable equity levels at Peoples Bank, although the 2007’s franchise tax expense was lower due to the Ohio Franchise Tax Settlement.  Peoples regularly evaluates the capital position of its direct and indirect subsidiaries from both a cost and leverage perspective.  Ultimately, management seeks to optimize Peoples’ consolidated capital position through allocation of capital, which is intended to enhance profitability and shareholder value.
 
In 2008, other non-interest expense increased 7% compared to 2007, due largely to additional loan-related expenses associated with the higher level of impaired and nonperforming loans.  Compared to 2006, other non-interest expense was down in 2007, due largely to modest decreases in losses from deposit accounts and correspondent bank processing fees.
 
 
Income Tax Expense
Peoples’ effective income tax rate was 2.1% in 2008 versus 23.3% in 2007 and 26.7% in 2006.  The lower effective tax rate in 2008 was largely attributable to the reduction in pre-tax income from higher loan loss provision and impairment charges without a corresponding decrease in income from tax-exempt sources.  A reconciliation of income tax expense and effective tax rate to the statutory tax rate can be found in Note 14 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.  While management anticipates an effective tax rate in 2009 comparable to 2007 and 2006, the amount of pre-tax income derived from tax-exempt sources will have a major impact on the annual effective tax rate.
 

 
FINANCIAL CONDITION

 
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Peoples considers cash and cash equivalents to consist of Federal Funds sold, cash and balances due from banks, interest-bearing balances in other institutions and other short-term investments that are readily liquid.  The amount of cash and cash equivalents fluctuates on a daily basis due to customer activity and Peoples’ liquidity needs.
 
In 2008, cash and cash equivalents decreased $9.6 million to $35.6 million at December 31, 2008.  Investing activities consumed $168.9 million of net cash, while financing and operating activities provided net cash of $123.8 million and $35.6 million, respectively.  Purchases of new investment securities exceeded the cash flows from sales, maturities, calls and principal payments and accounted for most of the cash used in investing activities.
 
In comparison, cash and cash equivalents increased $5.4 million in 2007, as net cash from operations of $30.9 million was mostly offset by cash used in investing and financing activities of $10.4 million and $15.1 million, respectively.  In 2006, cash and cash equivalents were flat, as net cash from operations of $31.0 million and $0.4 million from financing activities were used in investing activities.
 
    Further information regarding the management of Peoples’ liquidity position can be found later in this discussion under “Interest Rate Sensitivity and Liquidity.”
 
 
Investment Securities
    The following table details Peoples’ investment portfolio at December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
2008
 
2007
 
2006
Available-for-sale investment securities, at fair value:
         
    Obligations of U.S. Treasury and government agencies
 $           176
 
 $           197
 
 $           282
    Obligations of U.S. government-sponsored enterprises
           6,585
 
         84,457
 
       130,600
    Obligations of states and political subdivisions
         68,930
 
         69,247
 
         53,938
    Mortgage-backed securities
       535,475
 
       358,683
 
       304,413
    Corporate obligations and other securities
         73,591
 
         29,647
 
         36,302
        Total available-for-sale investment securities
 $  684,757
 
 $  542,231
 
 $  525,535
    Total amortized cost
 $    696,855
 
 $    535,979
 
 $    527,041
    Net unrealized (loss) gain
 $     (12,098)
 
 $        6,252
 
 $       (1,506)
           
Other investment securities, at cost:
         
    FHLB of Cincinnati stock
 $      19,584
 
 $      18,820
 
 $      18,820
    Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland stock
           4,412
 
           4,412
 
           4,378
        Total other investment securities
 $    23,996
 
 $    23,232
 
 $    23,198
           
        Total investment securities
 $  708,753
 
 $  565,463
 
 $  548,733

Management grew the investment portfolio in 2007 and early 2008 to lessen the impact of higher levels of loan payoffs in both years and sizable charge-offs in 2008 on interest income levels.  Much of 2008 growth occurred during the fourth quarter when management invested excess funding from an increase in deposit balances.  A portion of the 2007 growth occurred during the third quarter when Peoples took advantage of attractive yields that existed at the time and pre-funded expected near-term investment portfolio cash flows from calls and normal principal paydowns.  Peoples’ investment in mortgage-backed securities has increased as the result of management reinvesting some of the principal runoff from the portfolio into these types of securities, as well as the repositioning of the portfolio during 2008 to reduce credit and interest rate exposures.  The sale of the preferred stocks issued by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac during the first half of 2008 was a contributing factor to the reduced investment in obligations of U.S. government-sponsored enterprises.  While these preferred stocks were sold at a net loss, Peoples was able to avoid even larger losses from those investments had they remained in its investment portfolio.
 
Peoples’ corporate obligations and other securities historically have consisted of various individual bank-issued trust preferred securities, four separate collateralized debt obligation (“CDO”) investment securities and common stocks issued by unrelated bank holding companies.  During 2008, Peoples purchased several asset-backed securities collateralized by U.S. government-backed student loan pools, which had a total fair value of $48.5 million at December 31, 2008.
 
Since year-end 2007, the fair value of the available-for-sale investment portfolio has decreased as the result of conditions in the financial markets.  At December 31, 2008, management determined certain investment securities were other-than-temporarily impaired based upon an evaluation of the credit quality of underlying issuers.  As a result, Peoples recorded a $4.0 million other-than-temporary impairment charge, of which $2.0 million related to a single bank-issued trust preferred security previously carried at $2.0 million and $2.0 million related to four CDO investments previously carried at $6.1 million.  After the fourth quarter impairment charges, the carrying values of Peoples’ individual trust preferred and CDO portfolios were $20.8 million and $4.1 million, respectively, at December 31, 2008.  Management concluded no other material individual securities with an unrealized loss at December 31, 2008, were other-than-temporarily impaired.
 
Additional information regarding Peoples’ investment portfolio can be found in Note 3 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
 
Loans
    The following table details total outstanding loans at December 31:
 

(Dollars in thousands)
2008
 
2007
 
2006
 
2005
 
2004
Year-end loan balances:
                 
Commercial, mortgage
 $      478,298
 
 $      513,847
 
 $      469,934
 
 $      504,923
 
 $      450,270
Commercial, other
         178,834
 
         171,937
 
         191,847
 
         136,331
 
         126,473
Real estate, mortgage
         231,778
 
         237,641
 
         252,726
 
         272,327
 
         303,372
Real estate, construction
           77,917
 
           71,794
 
           99,311
 
           50,745
 
           35,423
Home equity lines of credit
           47,635
 
           42,706
 
           44,937
 
           43,754
 
           46,593
Consumer
           87,902
 
           80,544
 
           72,531
 
           62,737
 
           59,572
Deposit account overdrafts
             1,668
 
             2,472
 
             1,108
 
             1,059
 
             1,355
    Total loans
 $1,104,032
 
 $1,120,941
 
 $1,132,394
 
 $1,071,876
 
 $1,023,058
Average total loans
      1,113,247
 
      1,122,808
 
      1,108,575
 
      1,040,029
 
         942,761
Average allowance for loan losses
         (17,428)
 
         (14,775)
 
         (15,216)
 
         (14,930)
 
         (14,974)
    Average loans, net of allowance
 $1,095,819
 
 $1,108,033
 
 $1,093,359
 
 $1,025,099
 
 $    927,787
Percent of loans to total loans at December 31:
               
Commercial, mortgage
43.3%
 
45.8%
 
41.5%
 
47.1%
 
44.0%
Commercial, other
16.2%
 
15.3%
 
16.9%
 
12.7%
 
12.4%
Real estate, mortgage
21.0%
 
21.2%
 
22.3%
 
25.4%
 
29.7%
Real estate, construction
7.1%
 
6.4%
 
8.8%
 
4.7%
 
3.5%
Home equity lines of credit
4.3%
 
3.8%
 
4.0%
 
4.1%
 
4.6%
Consumer
7.9%
 
7.3%
 
6.4%
 
5.9%
 
5.7%
Deposit account overdrafts
0.2%
 
0.2%
 
0.1%
 
0.1%
 
0.1%
    Total percentage
100.0%
 
100.0%
 
100.0%
 
100.0%
 
100.0%
 
Although loan production remained steady in 2008, total loan balances declined since year-end 2007, due to normal commercial mortgage loan payoffs offsetting new production and the impact of charge-offs in 2008.  In prior years, Peoples experienced growth in commercial mortgage loan balances due to strong demand in and around central Ohio, although higher than normal payoffs during 2007 produced lower commercial balances at December 31, 2007.
 
The changes in Peoples’ construction loan balances reflect the demand for commercial construction loans, which comprise a significant portion of the outstanding construction loan balances.  In prior years, Peoples experienced increased competition for these and other commercial loans from the capital markets and other financial institutions, which has impacted Peoples’ ability to retain these loans after the initial construction term.  The remaining portion of Peoples’ construction balances are comprised of residential and other multifamily construction projects.
 
The following table details the maturities of Peoples’ commercial and construction loans at December 31, 2008:
 
(Dollars in thousands)
Due in One
Year or Less
Due in One
to Five Years
Due After
Five Years
Total
Loan Type
             
Commercial, mortgage:
             
Fixed
 $       24,727
 
 $       45,712
 
 $       20,943
 
 $       91,382
Variable
          46,140
 
          30,100
 
        310,676
 
        386,916
    Total
 $       70,867
 
 $       75,812
 
 $     331,619
 
 $     478,298
Commercial, other:
             
Fixed
 $       10,001
 
 $       56,612
 
 $         9,851
 
 $       76,464
Variable
          63,000
 
          20,967
 
          18,403
 
        102,370
    Total
 $       73,001
 
 $       77,579
 
 $       28,254
 
 $     178,834
Real estate, construction:
             
Fixed
 $              34
 
 $         9,032
 
 $         2,677
 
 $       11,743
Variable
          16,430
 
          11,529
 
          38,215
 
          66,174
    Total
 $       16,464
 
 $       20,561
 
 $       40,892
 
 $       77,917



Peoples also experienced continued growth in consumer loan balances, due mainly to the efforts in its indirect lending area.  Peoples’ indirect lending activity involves the origination of consumer loans primarily through automobile dealers and comprises a significant portion of its total consumer loans.  Management remains committed to originating quality consumer loans based on sound underwriting practices and appropriate loan pricing discipline, which could limit opportunities for future growth.
 
Growth of real estate loan balances in recent periods has been impacted by customer demand for long-term, fixed-rate mortgages, which Peoples generally sells to the secondary market with the servicing rights retained.  During the fourth quarter of 2006, Peoples also began selling certain long-term, fixed-rate mortgages to the secondary market with servicing rights released.  Beginning in 2007, Peoples originated and retained in its loan portfolio certain fixed-rate mortgages, primarily loans with an original maturity of 15 years or less.
 
 
Loan Concentration
Peoples’ largest industrial concentration of loans consists of credits to borrowers in the lodging and lodging related industry, with total outstanding balances of $60.5 million at December 31, 2008, and $50.6 million at December 31, 2007, representing 12.7% and 9.8% of total outstanding commercial real estate loans, respectively.  Loans to borrowers in the assisted living facilities and nursing home industry also represent a significant portion of Peoples’ commercial real estate loans.  Total outstanding balances of these loans were $54.9 million, or 11.5% of total outstanding commercial real estate loans, at December 31, 2008, compared to $54.0 million, or 10.5%, at December 31, 2007.  These credits were subjected to Peoples’ normal commercial underwriting standards, which include an evaluation of the financial strength, market expertise and experience of the borrowers and principals in these business relationships.
 
Peoples’ commercial lending activities continue to focus primarily on lending opportunities inside its primary market areas, with loans outside Peoples’ primary market areas comprising approximately 10% of total outstanding loan balances, at both December 31, 2008 and 2007.  The majority of loans are located in Ohio, West Virginia and Kentucky, with total outstanding balances of $76.6 million and $59.9 million at year-end 2008 and 2007, respectively.  In all other states, the aggregate outstanding balance in the state was less than $5 million, except Arizona and Florida, which had outstanding balances of $10.0 million and $8.2 million, respectively, at December 31, 2008.  The Arizona and Florida loans were generated primarily through existing central Ohio-based client relationships.
 
 
Allowance for Loan Losses
The following table details the changes in the allowance for loan losses for the years ended December 31:
(Dollars in thousands)
2008
 
2007
 
2006
 
2005
 
2004
Allowance for loan losses:
                 
Allowance for loan losses, January 1
 $     15,718
 
 $     14,509
 
 $     14,720
 
 $     14,760
 
 $     14,575
Gross charge offs:
                 
  Commercial
        18,672
 
          2,265
 
          3,485
 
          1,745
 
             961
  Real estate
             911
 
             606
 
             361
 
             827
 
             677
  Consumer
          1,088
 
             981
 
             631
 
             656
 
             886
  Overdrafts
          1,298
 
             849
 
          1,007
 
             965
 
          1,130
  Credit card
                 –
 
                 –
 
                 –
 
                 –
 
             133
    Total gross charge offs
        21,969
 
          4,701
 
          5,484
 
          4,193
 
          3,787
Recoveries:
                 
  Commercial
             647
 
             950
 
             578
 
          1,155
 
             487
  Real estate
               96
 
             202
 
             377
 
             223
 
             186
  Consumer
             454
 
             513
 
             389
 
             394
 
             431
  Overdrafts
             333
 
             280
 
             303
 
             327
 
             308
  Credit card
               12
 
                 6
 
                 4
 
               26
 
               14
    Total recoveries
          1,542
 
          1,951
 
          1,651
 
          2,125
 
          1,426
Net charge-offs (recoveries):
                 
  Commercial
        18,025
 
          1,315
 
          2,907
 
             590
 
             474
  Real estate
             815
 
             404
 
             (16)
 
             604
 
             491
  Consumer
             634
 
             468
 
             242
 
             262
 
             455
  Overdrafts
             965
 
             569
 
             704
 
             638
 
             822
  Credit card
             (12)
 
               (6)
 
               (4)
 
             (26)
 
             119
    Total net charge-offs
        20,427
 
          2,750
 
          3,833
 
          2,068
 
          2,361
Provision for loan losses, December 31
        27,640
 
          3,959
 
          3,622
 
          2,028
 
          2,546
     Allowance for loan losses, December 31
 $     22,931
 
 $     15,718
 
 $     14,509
 
 $     14,720
 
 $     14,760



 
2008
 
2007
 
2006
 
2005
 
2004
Ratio of net charge-offs to average loans:
                 
  Commercial
1.61%
 
0.12%
 
0.27%
 
0.06%
 
0.05%
  Real estate
0.07%
 
0.04%
 
 
0.06%
 
0.05%
  Consumer
0.06%
 
0.04%
 
0.02%
 
0.03%
 
0.05%
  Overdrafts
0.09%
 
0.05%
 
0.06%
 
0.06%
 
0.09%
  Credit card
 
 
 
 
0.01%
    Total ratio of net charge-offs to average loans
1.83%
 
0.25%
 
0.35%
 
0.21%
 
0.25%

In 2008, gross charge-offs increased significantly compared to the prior year largely attributable to losses totaling $16.6 million on impaired commercial loans that became under-collateralized during the year, due to declines in the estimated net realizable fair value of the underlying collateral.  Gross charge-offs in 2007 were higher than historical levels related primarily to losses totaling $2.1 million from six unrelated loan relationships.  One of these relationships also accounted for $2.9 million of the gross charge-offs in 2006.  Gross recoveries for 2008 were lower than recent periods as the result of sizeable, unanticipated recoveries in previous years, which were related to a limited number of unrelated loan relationships.  These recoveries were attributable to higher than expected proceeds from sale of collateral and, when possible, enforcement of guarantees by the principals.
 
The allowance is allocated among the loan categories based on the consistent, quarterly procedural discipline described in the “Critical Accounting Policies” section of this discussion.  However, the entire allowance for loan losses is available to absorb future loan losses in any loan category.  The following schedule details the allocation of the allowance for loan losses at December 31:
(Dollars in thousands)
2008
 
2007
 
2006
 
2005
 
2004
Commercial
 $   19,757
 
 $   14,147
 
 $   12,661
 
 $   11,883
 
 $   11,751
Real estate
        1,414
 
           419
 
           957
 
        1,400
 
        1,175
Consumer
        1,315
 
           868
 
           596
 
        1,149
 
        1,394
Overdrafts
           445
 
           284
 
           295
 
           288
 
           327
Credit card
               –
 
               –
 
               –
 
               –
 
           113
    Total allowance for loan losses
 $ 22,931
 
 $ 15,718
 
 $ 14,509
 
 $ 14,720
 
 $ 14,760
As a percentage of total loans
2.08%
 
1.40%
 
1.28%
 
1.37%
 
1.44%
 
The significant allocation of the allowance to commercial loans reflects the higher credit risk associated with this type of lending and the size of this loan category in relationship to the entire loan portfolio.  Since year-end 2007, this allocation has increased due mostly to management downgrading the loan quality ratings of certain commercial real estate loans and placing additional loans on nonaccrual status as part of its normal loan review process.  These actions reflect the deterioration in the financial condition of various commercial borrowers and declines in the underlying collateral values of several large commercial real estate loans caused by the contracting economy and commercial real estate market during 2008.  In addition, the weakening economic conditions during 2008 resulted in changes to the qualitative factors used in determining the appropriate level of allowance for loan losses for non-impaired commercial loans, which contributed to the higher allowance for loan losses compared to prior periods.
 
The allowance allocated to the real estate and consumer loan categories is based upon Peoples’ allowance methodology for homogeneous pools of loans.  The fluctuations in these allocations have been directionally consistent with the changes in loan quality, loss experience and changes in loan balances in these categories.
 
In prior periods, Peoples maintained an allowance for credit cards that reflected an estimate of the loss from the retained recourse on the business cards included in the credit card portfolio sale.  This recourse arrangement expired during the second quarter of 2005, eliminating the need for an allocation for credit cards.
 

The following table details Peoples’ nonperforming assets at December 31:
(Dollars in thousands)
2008
 
2007
 
2006
 
2005
 
2004
Loans 90+ days past due and accruing
 $             –
 
 $          378
 
 $              1
 
 $          251
 
 $          285
Renegotiated loans
                –
 
                –
 
          1,218
 
                –
 
          1,128
Nonaccrual loans
        41,320
 
          8,980
 
          8,785
 
          6,284
 
          5,130
  Total nonperforming loans
        41,320
 
          9,358
 
        10,004
 
          6,535
 
          6,543
Other real estate owned
             525
 
             343
 
                –
 
             308
 
          1,163
    Total nonperforming assets
 $   41,845
 
 $     9,701
 
 $   10,004
 
 $     6,843
 
 $     7,706
Nonperforming loans as a percent of total loans
3.74%
 
0.83%
 
0.88%
 
0.61%
 
0.64%
Nonperforming assets as a percent of total assets
2.09%
 
0.51%
 
0.53%
 
0.37%
 
0.43%
Allowance for loan losses as a percent of
                 
     nonperforming loans
55.5%
 
168.0%
 
145.0%
 
225.2%
 
225.6%

Peoples’ nonaccrual loans are comprised almost entirely of commercial and real estate loans, with much of the increase in 2008 isolated to eight large commercial real estate loan relationships. Several of the loans placed on nonaccrual status during 2008 were charged down to the estimated net realizable fair value of the underlying collateral, resulting in the lower allowance for loan losses to nonperforming loans ratios compared to prior periods.  Interest income on loans classified as nonaccrual and renegotiated at each year-end that would have been recorded under the original terms of the loans was $1,936,000; $786,000 and $567,000 for 2008; 2007 and 2006, respectively, of which $20,000; $47,000 and $34,000, respectively, was actually recorded consistent with the income recognition policy described in the “Critical Accounting Policies” section of this discussion.
 
A loan is considered impaired when, based on current information and events, it is probable that Peoples will be unable to collect the scheduled payments of principal or interest according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement.  The measurement of potential impaired loan losses is generally based on the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s contractual effective interest rate, or the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral dependent.  If foreclosure is probable, impairment loss is measured based on the fair value of the collateral.  Information regarding Peoples’ impaired loans is included in Note 4 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
 
Deposits
Peoples’ deposit balances were comprised of the following at December 31:
(Dollars in thousands)
2008
 
2007
 
2006
 
2005
 
2004
Retail certificates of deposit
 $       626,195
 
 $       499,684
 
 $       514,885
 
 $       465,148
 
 $       456,850
Money market deposit accounts
          213,498
 
          153,299
 
          134,387
 
          110,372
 
          107,394
Interest-bearing transaction accounts
          187,100
 
          191,359
 
          170,022
 
          178,030
 
          165,144
Savings accounts
          115,419
 
          107,389
 
          114,186
 
          131,221
 
          157,145
  Total retail interest-bearing deposits
       1,142,212
 
          951,731
 
          933,480
 
          884,771
 
          886,533
Brokered certificates of deposits
            44,116
 
            59,589
 
          129,128
 
            41,786
 
            29,909
  Total interest-bearing deposits
       1,186,328
 
       1,011,320
 
       1,062,608
 
          926,557
 
          916,442
Non-interest-bearing deposits
          180,040
 
          175,057
 
          170,921
 
          162,729
 
          152,979
    Total deposit balances
 $ 1,366,368
 
 $ 1,186,377
 
 $ 1,233,529
 
 $ 1,089,286
 
 $ 1,069,421
 
Overall, Peoples ability to attract and retain retail deposits in recent years has been challenged by progressively intense competition for deposits within its markets.  During 2008, Peoples successfully grew retail certificates of deposit (“CDs”) by attracting nearly $108 million of funds from customers outside its primary market area as an alternative to higher-cost brokered deposits.  Contributing to the higher retail CD balances in 2008 were $35.7 million of funds deposited by customers through the Certificate of Deposit Account Registry System, or CDARS, program, with $18 million attributable to a single commercial deposit during the fourth quarter of 2008.  These increases were partially offset by an $18.7 million decline in governmental deposits, which are subject to competitive bidding and typically require pledging of investment securities as collateral.
 
Money market balances have nearly doubled since year-end 2005, due largely to Peoples offering a personal money market product with a more competitive rate.  In 2008, money market balances increased 39% in response to Peoples offering more competitive rates, coupled with $45.6 million of additional funds from trust customers.  The increase in trust funds was largely the result of certain alternative money market funds offered by unaffiliated providers, which Peoples’ trust department had utilized for its customers, being closed to new deposits late in the fourth quarter of 2008, due to the ultra-low short-term interest rates.  Management considers these additional trust funds as short-term, inexpensive funding source, although the amounts could change unexpectedly in future periods.
 
A significant portion of Peoples’ interest-bearing transaction account balances are comprised of deposits from state and local governmental entities, which are subject to periodic fluctuations based on the timing of tax collections and subsequent expenditures or disbursements.  While Peoples has experienced steady growth in these public funds over the last few years, consumer balances contracted in 2008 and 2006, resulting in an overall decline in interest-bearing transaction account balances.
 
In late 2005, Peoples’ implemented a direct mail and free gift marketing strategy designed to attract new customers and increase non-interest-bearing deposits.  This strategy generated many new customer accounts and higher consumer balances.  The increase in 2007 was attributed to commercial deposit growth.  Peoples continues to focus on expanding core deposit balances as a means of reducing reliance on typically higher costing, wholesale funding sources.
 
In both 2008 and 2007, Peoples reduced its amount of brokered deposits, due to the retail deposit growth and availability of other lower rate wholesale funding.  Management may continue to use brokered deposits in the future to help manage interest rate sensitivity and liquidity, as well as maintain diversity in funding sources.
 
The maturities of certificates of deposit with total balances of $100,000 or more at December 31 were as follows:
(Dollars in thousands)
2008
 
2007
 
2006
 
2005
 
2004
3 months or less
 $     66,757
 
 $     42,809
 
 $     26,601
 
 $     25,884
 
 $     17,772
Over 3 to 6 months
        50,545
 
        33,411
 
        47,738
 
        25,628
 
        17,923
Over 6 to 12 months
        54,610
 
        24,718
 
        59,084
 
        34,207
 
        14,163
Over 12 months
        63,345
 
        43,386
 
        89,049
 
        82,174
 
        76,267
    Total
 $235,257
 
 $144,324
 
 $222,472
 
 $167,893
 
 $126,125
 
Borrowed Funds
In 2008, Peoples reduced total borrowed funds 10%, to $429.6 million at December 31, 2008, as a $157.5 million decrease in short-term FHLB borrowings was partially offset by a $76.3 million increase in long-term borrowings, primarily FHLB advances, and higher balances in retail repurchase agreements.  The reduction in short-term FHLB borrowings occurred as a result of the retail deposit growth.  Long-term borrowings increased due largely to an interest rate risk management strategy initiated in the second half of 2007.  Retail repurchase agreements were up in 2008, due primarily to a single commercial customer transferring approximately $14 million of money market deposits to an overnight repurchase agreement late in the third quarter of 2008.  Additional information regarding Peoples’ borrowed funds can be found in Notes 8 and 9 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
 
Capital/Stockholders' Equity
At December 31, 2008, total stockholders’ equity was $186.6 million, down 8% compared to year-end 2007, due mostly to a lower fair value of Peoples’ available-for-sale investments.  Peoples also declared dividends totaling $9.5 million, or $0.91 per share, in 2008, which exceeded net income by $2.0 million, compared to dividends of $9.2 million, or $0.88 per share, in 2007, which represented 50.4% of 2007’s net income.
 
Throughout 2008, the capital positions of Peoples and its banking subsidiary have remained substantially above amounts needed to be considered well capitalized by banking regulations.  These capital positions allowed Peoples to increase dividends declared to shareholders during 2008, despite lower earnings.  However, Peoples’ ability to increase its quarterly dividend in future periods, from its current rate of $0.23 per share, is restricted as the result of participating in the TARP Capital Purchase Program.  In addition, other restrictions and limitations may prohibit Peoples from paying dividends even when sufficient cash is available.  Further discussion regarding restrictions on Peoples’ ability to pay future dividends can be found in Note 16 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, as well as the “Supervision and Regulation –TARP Capital Purchase Program” and “Supervision and Regulation -Dividend Restrictions” sections under Item 1 of this Form 10-K.
 
During 2008, Peoples has been less active with treasury stock purchases, as management has focused on maintaining Peoples’ capital position, especially considering the uncertainty that existed in the financial markets and economy as a whole.  In 2008, Peoples repurchased 13,600 of its common shares, at an average price of $21.59, under its announced stock repurchase program, compared to 463,600 common shares, at an average price of $26.21, in 2007.  Peoples’ ability to repurchase common shares in future periods will be limited since the announced stock repurchase program expired on December 31, 2008, and Peoples’ participation in the TARP Capital Purchase Program restricts repurchases of common shares.  Additional information regarding these restrictions can be found in the “Supervision and Regulation-TARP Capital Purchase Program” section under Item 1 of this Form 10-K.
 
Management uses the tangible capital ratio as one measure of the adequacy of Peoples’ equity.  The ratio, defined as tangible equity as a percentage of tangible assets, excludes the balance sheet impact of intangible assets acquired through acquisitions.  At December 31, 2008, Peoples’ tangible capital ratio was 6.21% compared to 7.42% at December 31, 2007.  The lower ratio compared to the prior year-end was the result of an 11% decrease in tangible equity, due mostly to the lower fair value of the investment portfolio, coupled with a 7% increase in tangible assets from purchases of investment securities.
 
Further information regarding Peoples and Peoples Bank’s risk-based capital ratios can be found in Note 16 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
 
 
Interest Rate Sensitivity and Liquidity
While Peoples is exposed to various business risks, the risks relating to interest rate sensitivity and liquidity are typically the most complex and dynamic risks that can materially impact future results of operations and financial condition.  The objective of Peoples’ asset/liability management (“ALM”) function is to measure and manage these risks in order to optimize net interest income within the constraints of prudent capital adequacy, liquidity and safety.  This objective requires Peoples to focus on interest rate risk exposure and adequate liquidity through its management of the mix of assets and liabilities, their related cash flows and the rates earned and paid on those assets and liabilities.  Ultimately, the ALM function is intended to guide management in the acquisition and disposition of earning assets and selection of appropriate funding sources.
 
Interest Rate Risk
Interest rate risk (“IRR”) is one of the most significant risks arising in the normal course of business of financial services companies like Peoples.  IRR is the potential for economic loss due to future interest rate changes that can impact both the earnings stream as well as market values of financial assets and liabilities.  Peoples’ exposure to IRR is due primarily to differences in the maturity or repricing of earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities.  In addition, other factors, such as prepayments of loans and investment securities or early withdrawal of deposits, can expose Peoples to IRR and increase interest costs or reduce revenue streams.
 
Peoples has assigned overall management of IRR to the ALCO, which has established an IRR management policy that sets minimum requirements and guidelines for monitoring and managing the level and amount of IRR.  The objective of Peoples’ IRR policy is to assist the ALCO in its evaluation of the impact of changing interest rate conditions on earnings and economic value of equity, as well as assist with the implementation of strategies intended to reduce Peoples’ IRR.  The management of IRR involves either maintaining or changing the level of risk exposure by changing the repricing and maturity characteristics of the cash flows for specific assets or liabilities.
 
The ALCO uses various methods to assess and monitor the current level of Peoples’ IRR and the impact of potential strategies or other changes.  However, the ALCO predominantly relies on simulation modeling in its overall management of IRR since it is a dynamic measure.  Simulation modeling also estimates the impact of potential changes in interest rates and balance sheet structures on future earnings and projected fair value of equity.
 
The modeling process starts with a base case simulation using the current balance sheet and current interest rates held constant for the next twelve months.  Alternate scenarios are prepared which simulate the impact of increasing and decreasing market interest rates, assuming parallel yield curve shifts.  Comparisons produced from the simulation data, showing the changes in net interest income from the base interest rate scenario, illustrate the risks associated with the current balance sheet structure.  Additional simulations, when deemed appropriate or necessary, are prepared using different interest rate scenarios than those used with the base case simulation and/or possible changes in balance sheet composition.  Comparisons showing the earnings and equity value variance from the base case are provided to the ALCO for review and discussion.
 
The ALCO has established limits on changes in net interest income and the economic value of equity.  The ALCO limits the decrease in net interest income to 15% or less from base case for each 200 basis point shift in interest rates measured over a twelve-month period.  The ALCO limits the negative impact on net equity to 30% or less given an immediate and sustained 200 basis point shift in interest rates.
 
 
The following table illustrates the estimated impact of an immediate and sustained change in interest rates (dollars in thousands):

Increase in
 
Estimated (Decrease) Increase
 
Estimated (Decrease) Increase
Interest Rate
 
in Net Interest Income
 
in Economic Value of Equity
(in Basis Points)
 
December 31, 2008
 
December 31, 2007
 
December 31, 2008
 
December 31, 2007
300
 
 $   (1,713)
 
   (2.9)%
 
 $   (8,730)
 
 (16.1)%
 
 $   (5,386)
 
   (2.4)%
 
 $ (30,772)
 
 (12.1)%
200
 
         (418)
 
   (0.7)%
 
      (5,276)
 
   (9.7)%
 
      (1,048)
 
   (0.5)%
 
    (19,186)
 
   (7.6)%
100
 
            84
 
    0.1 %
 
      (2,264)
 
   (4.2)%
 
       2,946
 
    1.3 %
 
      (7,830)
 
   (3.1)%
 
This table uses a standard, parallel shock analysis for assessing the IRR to net interest income and the economic value of equity.  A parallel shock means all points on the yield curve (one year, two year, three year, etc.) are directionally shocked the same amount of basis points (100 basis points equal to 1%).  Although a parallel shock table can give insight into the current direction and magnitude of IRR inherent in the balance sheet, interest rates do not always move in a complete parallel manner during interest rate cycles.  These nonparallel movements in interest rates, commonly called yield curve steepening or flattening movements, tend to occur during the beginning and end of an interest rate cycle.  As a result, management conducts more advanced interest rate shock scenarios to gain a better understanding of Peoples’ exposure to nonparallel rate shifts.
 
Throughout 2008, management shifted the balance sheet from its liability sensitive interest risk position at year-end 2007 to a more neutral position given the uncertainty regarding future interest rate changes.  During the fourth quarter of 2008, management took steps to move the balance sheet to an asset sensitive position in preparation for a rising interest rate environment.  Specifically, management selectively increased and extended the maturities of borrowed funds and retail CDs, thereby reducing overnight funding, and took steps to reposition the investment portfolio to reduce price volatility.  Due to these changes, management has reduced net interest income at risk in an “up 100 basis point” rate shock as of December 31, 2008.
 
While the balance sheet positioning at December 31, 2008, shows a reduction in net interest income for various parallel rate shock scenarios, these shocks do not take into account Peoples positioning along the interest rate curve or ALCO's ability to take appropriate actions, when necessary, to further minimize the impact of changes in interest rates on future earnings.  The ALCO will continue to monitor Peoples’ overall IRR position and take appropriate actions, when necessary, to preserve the current balance sheet risk position and minimize the impact of changes in interest rates on future earnings.
 
Liquidity
In addition to IRR management, another major objective of the ALCO is to maintain a sufficient level of liquidity.  The ALCO defines liquidity as the ability to meet anticipated and unanticipated operating cash needs, loan demand and deposit withdrawals, without incurring a sustained negative impact on profitability.  The ALCO’s liquidity management policy sets limits on the net liquidity position and the concentration of non-core funding sources, both wholesale funding and brokered deposits.
 
Typically, the main source of liquidity for Peoples is deposit growth.  Liquidity is also provided by cash generated from earning assets such as maturities, calls, principal payments and interest income from loans and investment securities.  Peoples also uses various wholesale funding sources to supplement funding from customer deposits.  These external sources also provide Peoples with the ability to obtain large quantities of funds in a relatively short time period in the event of unanticipated cash needs.
 
At December 31, 2008, Peoples had available borrowing capacity through its wholesale funding sources and unpledged investment securities totaling approximately $124 million that can be used to satisfy liquidity needs, unchanged versus year-end 2007.  This liquidity position excludes the impact of Peoples’ ability to obtain additional funding by either offering higher rates on retail deposits or issuing additional brokered deposits.  During 2008, management took steps to enhance the diversity of the liquidity sources as a means of reducing reliance of the FHLB for liquidity.  Management believes the current balance of cash and cash equivalents and anticipated cash flows from the investment portfolio, along with the availability of other funding sources, will allow Peoples to meet anticipated cash obligations, as well as special needs and off-balance sheet commitments.
 
 
Off-Balance Sheet Activities and Contractual Obligations
Peoples routinely engages in activities that involve, to varying degrees, elements of risk that are not reflected in whole or in part in the Consolidated Financial Statements.  These activities are part of Peoples’ normal course of business and include traditional off-balance sheet credit-related financial instruments, interest rate contracts, operating leases, long-term debt and commitments to make additional capital contributions in low-income housing tax credit investments.
 
The following is a summary of Peoples’ significant off-balance sheet activities and contractual obligations.  Detailed information regarding these activities and obligations can be found in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements as follows:
 
Activity or Obligation
 
Note
Off-balance sheet credit-related financial instruments
 
15
Interest rate contracts
 
15
Low-income housing tax credit investments
 
15
Operating lease obligations
 
5
Long-term debt obligations
 
9
Junior subordinated notes held by subsidiary trusts
 
10

Traditional off-balance sheet credit-related financial instruments are primarily commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit.  These activities are necessary to meet the financing needs of customers and could require Peoples to make cash payments to third parties in the event certain specified future events occur.  The contractual amounts represent the extent of Peoples’ exposure in these off-balance sheet activities.  However, since certain off-balance sheet commitments, particularly standby letters of credit, are expected to expire or only partially be used, the total amount of commitments does not necessarily represent future cash requirements.
 
At December 31, 2008, Peoples held an option to initiate an interest rate swap with a notional amount of $17 million.  This interest rate contract is carried at fair value on Peoples’ Consolidated Balance Sheets, with the fair value representing the net present value of expected future cash receipts or payments based on market interest rates as of the balance sheet date.  As a result, the amounts recorded do not represent the amounts that may ultimately be paid or received under this contract.  Peoples may consider using other interest rate contracts or derivatives in the future, as deemed appropriate by management and the ALCO, to help manage Peoples’ interest rate risk position.
 
Peoples also has commitments to make additional capital contributions in low-income housing tax credit funds, consisting of a pool of low-income housing projects.  As a limited partner in these funds, Peoples receives federal income tax benefits, which assist Peoples in managing its overall tax burden.  Since the future contributions are conditioned on certain future events, the total amount of future equity contributions at December 31, 2008, is not reflected on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
 
Peoples continues to lease certain facilities and equipment under noncancelable operating leases with terms providing for fixed monthly payments over periods generally ranging from two to ten years.  Many of Peoples’ leased facilities are inside retail shopping centers and, as a result, are not available for purchase.  Management believes these leased facilities increase Peoples’ visibility within its markets and afford sales associates additional access to current and potential clients.
 
The following table details the aggregate amount of future payments Peoples is required to make under certain contractual obligations as of December 31, 2008:

 
     
Payments due by period
(Dollars in thousands)
Total
 
Less than 1 year
1-3 years
 
3-5 years
 
More than
 5 years
Long-term debt (1)
 $      308,297
 
 $     67,025
 
 $     76,865
 
 $    38,147
 
 $   126,260
Junior subordinated notes held by
     subsidiary trust (1)
           22,495
 
                 –
 
                –
 
                –
 
        22,495
Operating leases
             6,512
 
             861
 
          1,676
 
         1,666
 
          2,309
Time deposits
         670,311
 
      460,944
 
      164,644
 
       44,485
 
             238
    Total
 $1,007,615
 
 $ 528,830
 
 $243,185
 
 $  84,298
 
 $ 151,302
(1) Amounts reflect solely the minimum required principal payments.
 
Management does not anticipate Peoples’ current off-balance sheet activities and contractual obligations will have a material impact on future results of operations and financial condition based on past experience.
 
 
Effects of Inflation on Financial Statements
Substantially all of Peoples’ assets relate to banking and are monetary in nature.  As a result, inflation does not impact Peoples to the same degree as companies in capital-intensive industries in a replacement cost environment.  During a period of rising prices, a net monetary asset position results in a loss in purchasing power and conversely a net monetary liability position results in an increase in purchasing power.  The opposite would be true during a period of decreasing prices.  In the banking industry, monetary assets typically exceed monetary liabilities.  The current monetary policy targeting low levels of inflation has resulted in relatively stable price levels.  Therefore, inflation has had little impact on Peoples’ net assets.
 
 
Future Outlook
Peoples continues to focus on serving clients, diversifying revenues, improving operating efficiency and reducing reliance on net interest income.  However, contraction in the economy and commercial real estate markets created increasingly difficult conditions within the financial services industry.  The impact of these adverse conditions on loan quality and certain investment securities overshadowed any positive results in 2008 but highlighted the value of Peoples’ strong capital position and liquidity levels.
 
A major emphasis for management in 2008 was protecting Peoples’ capital and improving liquidity levels.  This focus provided stable capital ratios.  In January 2009, Peoples took steps to fortify its capital position by participating in the TARP Capital Purchase Program, which generated $39 million of new equity capital.  With this additional capital, Peoples’ Tier 1 and Total Risk-Based Capital ratios increased to 13.55% and 16.15%, using the risk-based capital data at December 31, 2008, compared to the year-end 2008 ratios of 11.88% and 13.19%, respectively.  Peoples’ primary intent is to use the new capital for loan originations, although the stronger capital position also affords greater capacity to work through problem loans and to provide appropriate relief to struggling mortgage and consumer borrowers.
 
In 2008, net interest income and margin improvement occurred from the combination of lower short-term market rates and retail deposit growth.  During the fourth quarter of 2008, the aggressive action by the Federal Reserve resulted in short-term rates falling to historically low levels.  Management believes net interest margin pressure could intensify if the Federal Reserve keeps rates at current ultra-low levels for an extended period.  However, management remains focused on maintaining net interest income levels and preserving Peoples’ current asset sensitive interest rate risk position in preparation for the eventual rising interest rate environment.  Given the uncertainty surrounding the timing and magnitude of future interest rate changes, as well as the impact of competition for loans and deposits, Peoples’ net interest margin and income remain inherently difficult to predict and manage.
 
The investment securities portfolio could remain a significant portion of the earning asset base in 2009.  Peoples may take additional steps to reposition the investment portfolio and further reduce interest rate exposures as opportunities arise due to changes in market conditions.  In addition, the cash flow being generated from the investment portfolio on a monthly basis has increased significantly due largely to overall increase in the size of the portfolio and higher investment in mortgage-backed securities.  As a result, Peoples could adjust the size or composition of the portfolio based on, among other factors, changes in the loan portfolio, liquidity needs and interest rate conditions.
 
In 2007 and 2008, total loan balances were impacted by elevated levels of payoffs and charge-offs, which offset new production.  In 2009, management does not anticipate the same level of payoffs or charge-offs.  Loan growth still could be challenged by economic conditions and the impact of selling residential real estate loans to the secondary market.  Peoples’ lenders remain committed to originating loans that meet prudent underwriting standards given current economic conditions.
 
In 2008, non-interest income benefited from growth in deposit account service charges and e-banking income.  While management believes similar increases could occur in these areas during 2009, total non-interest income levels could be challenged by the continued pressure on fiduciary and brokerage revenues from lower market values of investments.  Mortgage banking income could benefit from customers seeking to refinance existing loans due to the lower interest rate, although the impact of sluggish conditions in the housing market and economy in general could reduce home sales and, thus, demand for new mortgage loans.  Peoples remains committed to customer-focused delivery of financial services and increasing cross-sale activity among its business lines, which should produce additional non-interest revenues.
 
 Operating expense growth has been minimal over the last couple years due to management’s efforts to improve efficiencies.  While cost control will remain a priority in 2009, management anticipates a modest increase in total non-interest expense in 2009, due mostly to higher deposit insurance costs.  Peoples’ election to participate in the FDIC’s Temporary Liquidity Guarantee Program, which provides unlimited deposit insurance on funds in non-interest-bearing transaction deposit accounts, will result in slightly higher assessment rates during 2009.  In addition, the FDIC has announced plans to impose emergency special assessments on all insured institutions during 2009 to ensure the continued strength of the deposit insurance fund.  If these special assessments are imposed, Peoples’ 2009 FDIC insurance expense could be significantly higher than recent periods.  The increased number of bank failures during 2008, coupled with the potential for additional failures in 2009, may cause the deposit insurance fund to decrease to levels that will require further increases in the assessment rates.  Management believes the trend in recent periods of rising employee medical benefit costs will continue and anticipates an increase in pension expense from changes to certain variables, such as the discount rate, used to determine the net periodic benefit cost.  These increases could result in higher salary and employee benefit costs compared to the amount incurred in 2008.  However, the increase in base salaries and wages in 2009 should be minimal, as upper management will not accept any salary increases for 2009.
 
Peoples continues to be proactive in identifying possible problem loans and remains diligent in its collection efforts.  Asset quality will remain a major focal point in 2009, as management works through extremely difficult market conditions.  A key goal for 2009 will be reducing nonperforming loans.  However, the market for selling properties is much slower than in past years, so it will take time to resolve some of these problem loans.
 
Growing retail deposit balances and reducing Peoples’ reliance on higher cost wholesale funding sources will remain a point of emphasis in 2009.  Competition for deposits could make it difficult for Peoples to build on its recent success.  Still, Peoples’ sales associates are focused on developing long-term relationships and uncovering other financial needs of these new customers, while at the same time expanding relationships with existing customers, and working to deliver the right financial products and services to Peoples’ growing customer base.
 
In recent years, Peoples has been successful at growing its business and revenues through strategic acquisitions and expansion.  Management believes conditions in several markets served by Peoples could provide opportunities for potential growth.  Further, management believes Peoples’ capital position remains at levels that will support disciplined balance sheet growth opportunities.  The evaluation of potential acquisitions will be more strenuous and selective, especially considering the value of capital during difficult economic times.  Ultimately, any future expansion will be driven by growth opportunities in both deposits and loans.
 
While the need to generate short-term results is understood, management believes its disciplined, long-term approach to improving earnings through diversification of the revenue base will allow Peoples’ to build the greatest value for shareholders.  Peoples remains a service-oriented company with a focus on satisfying clients through a relationship sales process.  Through this process, sales associates work to anticipate, uncover and solve their clients’ every financial need, from insurance to banking to investment services.
 
ITEM 7A.  QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

Please refer to the section captioned “Interest Rate Sensitivity and Liquidity” under Item 7 of this Form 10-K, which section is incorporated herein by reference.
 

ITEM 8.  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

The Consolidated Financial Statements and accompanying notes, and the report of independent registered public accounting firm, are set forth immediately following Item 9B of this Form 10-K.
 

ITEM 9.  CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

No response required.
 

ITEM 9A.  CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
 
Disclosure Controls and Procedures
Peoples’ management, with the participation of Peoples’ President and Chief Executive Officer and Peoples’ Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer, has evaluated the effectiveness of Peoples’ disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) (the “Exchange Act”) as of December 31, 2008.  Based upon that evaluation, Peoples’ President and Chief Executive Officer and Peoples’ Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer have concluded that:
 

(a)  
information required to be disclosed by Peoples in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and other reports Peoples files or submits under the Exchange Act would be accumulated and communicated to Peoples’ management, including its President and Chief Executive Officer and its Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure;
 
(b)  
information required to be disclosed by Peoples in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and other reports Peoples files or submits under the Exchange Act would be recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the timeframe specified in the SEC’s rules and forms; and
 
(c)  
Peoples’ disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end of the fiscal year covered by this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
 
 
Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
The “Report of Management’s Assessment of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting” required by Item 308(a) of SEC Regulation S-K is included on page 49 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
 
 
Attestation Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
The “Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on Effectiveness of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting” required by Item 308(b) of SEC Regulation S-K is included on page 50 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
 
 
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
During the fourth quarter of Peoples’ fiscal year ended December 31, 2008, no changes were made in Peoples’ internal control over financial reporting that have materially effected, or are reasonably likely to materially effect, Peoples’ internal control over financial reporting.
 

ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION

No response required.
 


Report of Management’s Assessment of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

Peoples’ management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.  Peoples’ internal control over financial reporting has been designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation, integrity, and fair presentation of Peoples’ Consolidated Financial Statements for external purposes in accordance with United States generally accepted accounting principles.

With the supervision and participation of its President and Chief Executive Officer and its Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer, management evaluated the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2008, using the framework set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

No matter how well designed, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect all misstatements.  Projection of the evaluation of effectiveness to future periods is subject to risks, including but not limited to (a) controls may become inadequate due to changes in conditions; (b) a deterioration in the degree of compliance with policies or procedures; and (c) the possibility of control circumvention or override, any of which may lead to misstatements due to undetected error or fraud.  Effective internal control over financial reporting can provide only a reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and reporting.

Management assessed the effectiveness of Peoples’ internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2008, and, based on this assessment, has concluded Peoples’ internal control over financial reporting is effective as of that date.

Peoples’ independent registered public accounting firm, Ernst & Young LLP has audited the Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report and has issued an attestation report on Peoples’ internal control over financial reporting.




/s/ MARK F. BRADLEY
 
 
  /s/ EDWARD G. SLOANE
 Mark F. Bradley    
Edward G. Sloane
 President and Chief Executive Officer    
Executive Vice President,
      Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer 



Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on Effectiveness of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

The Board of Directors and Shareholders of Peoples Bancorp Inc.

We have audited Peoples Bancorp Inc.’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2008, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (the COSO criteria).  Peoples Bancorp Inc.’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying Report of Management’s Assessment of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting.  Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances.  We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements.  Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

In our opinion, Peoples Bancorp Inc. maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2008, based on the COSO criteria.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets of Peoples Bancorp Inc. as of December 31, 2008 and 2007, and the related consolidated statements of income, stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2008, and our report dated March 2, 2009 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.


 
                                                                                                                                                                                                       
            Charleston, West Virginia
March 2, 2009


Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on Consolidated Financial Statements


The Board of Directors and Shareholders of Peoples Bancorp Inc.

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Peoples Bancorp Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2008 and 2007, and the related consolidated statements of income, stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2008.  These financial statements are the responsibility of Peoples Bancorp Inc.’s management.  Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States).  Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement.  An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements.  An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.  We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of Peoples Bancorp Inc. and subsidiaries at December 31, 2008 and 2007, and the consolidated results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2008, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), Peoples Bancorp Inc.’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2008, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated March 2, 2009, expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

                                                                                                                                                                                                               
 
Charleston, West Virginia
March 2, 2009
 

            PEOPLES BANCORP INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
            CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
 
 
December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)
2008
 
2007
Assets
     
Cash and cash equivalents:
     
  Cash and due from banks
 $     34,389
 
 $     43,275
  Interest-bearing deposits in other banks
          1,209
 
          1,925
    Total cash and cash equivalents
        35,598
 
        45,200
       
Available-for-sale investment securities, at fair value (amortized  cost of
     
    $696,855 and $535,979 at December 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively)
      684,757
 
      542,231
Other investment securities, at cost
        23,996
 
        23,232
    Total investment securities
      708,753
 
      565,463
       
Loans, net of deferred fees and costs
   1,104,032
 
   1,120,941
Allowance for loan losses
      (22,931)
 
      (15,718)
    Net loans
   1,081,101
 
   1,105,223
       
Loans held for sale
            791
 
          1,994
Bank premises and equipment, net
        25,111
 
        24,803
Bank owned life insurance
        51,873
 
        50,291
Goodwill
        62,520
 
        62,520
Other intangible assets
          3,886
 
          5,509
Other assets
        32,705
 
        24,550
    Total assets
 $ 2,002,338
 
 $ 1,885,553
       
Liabilities
     
Deposits:
     
Non-interest-bearing
 $   180,040
 
 $   175,057
Interest-bearing
   1,186,328
 
   1,011,320
    Total deposits
   1,366,368
 
   1,186,377
       
Short-term borrowings:
     
  Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase
        68,852
 
        35,041
  Federal Home Loan Bank advances
        30,000
 
      187,500
    Total short-term borrowings
        98,852
 
      222,541
       
Long-term borrowings
      308,297
 
      231,979
Junior subordinated notes held by subsidiary trusts
        22,495
 
        22,460
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
        19,700
 
        19,360
    Total liabilities
   1,815,712
 
   1,682,717
       
Stockholders’ Equity
     
Common stock, no par value, 24,000,000 shares authorized,
     
  10,975,364 shares issued and 10,925,954 shares issued at December 31, 2008
     
  and 2007, respectively, including shares in treasury
      164,716
 
      163,399
Retained earnings
        50,512
 
        52,527
Accumulated comprehensive (loss) income, net of deferred income taxes
      (12,288)
 
          3,014
Treasury stock, at cost, 641,480 shares and 629,206 shares at December 31, 2008
   
  and 2007, respectively
      (16,314)
 
      (16,104)
    Total stockholders’ equity
      186,626
 
      202,836
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity
 $ 2,002,338
 
 $ 1,885,553

See Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
53

 
            PEOPLES BANCORP INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
            CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

 
Year Ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
2008
 
2007
 
2006
Interest Income:
         
Interest and fees on loans
 $         74,268
 
 $         85,035
 
 $         81,329
Interest and dividends on taxable investment securities
            29,106
 
            25,647
 
            24,418
Interest on tax-exempt investment securities
              2,788
 
              2,567
 
              2,867
Other interest income
                   65
 
                 170
 
                 180
  Total interest income
          106,227
 
          113,419
 
          108,794
Interest Expense:
         
Interest on deposits
            31,310
 
            36,975
 
            32,261
Interest on short-term borrowings
              3,383
 
            11,835
 
            10,443
Interest on long-term borrowings
            11,079
 
              8,513
 
            10,271
Interest on junior subordinated notes held by subsidiary trusts
              1,976
 
              2,175
 
              2,602
  Total interest expense
            47,748
 
            59,498
 
            55,577
    Net interest income
            58,479
 
            53,921
 
            53,217
Provision for loan losses
            27,640
 
              3,959
 
              3,622
    Net interest income after provision for loan losses
            30,839
 
            49,962
 
            49,595
Other Income:
         
Deposit account service charges
            10,137
 
              9,890
 
            10,215
Insurance income
              9,902
 
              9,701
 
              9,619
Trust and investment income
              5,139
 
              4,983
 
              4,258
Electronic banking income
              3,882
 
              3,524
 
              3,080
Bank owned life insurance
              1,582
 
              1,661
 
              1,637
Mortgage banking income
                 681
 
                 885
 
                 825
(Loss) gain on investment securities
            (2,592)
 
            (6,062)
 
                 265
Gain on sale of banking offices
                 775
 
                     –
 
                 454
Other non-interest income
                 755
 
                 782
 
                 772
  Total other income
            30,261
 
            25,364
 
            31,125
Other Expenses:
         
Salaries and employee benefit costs
            28,521
 
            27,552
 
            26,178
Net occupancy and equipment
              5,540
 
              5,298
 
              5,252
Electronic banking expense
              2,289
 
              2,206
 
              1,793
Professional fees
              2,212
 
              2,246
 
              2,465
Data processing and software
              2,181
 
              2,210
 
              1,905
Franchise tax
              1,609
 
                 973
 
              1,760
Amortization of other intangible assets
              1,586
 
              1,934
 
              2,261
Marketing
              1,293
 
              1,515
 
              1,659
FDIC insurance
                 361
 
                 146
 
                 143
Other non-interest expense
              7,893
 
              7,372
 
              7,881
  Total other expenses
            53,485
 
            51,452
 
            51,297
  Income before income taxes
              7,615
 
            23,874
 
            29,423
Income taxes:
         
Current
              3,021
 
              6,548
 
              8,121
Deferred
            (2,861)
 
               (988)
 
               (256)
  Total income taxes
                 160
 
              5,560
 
              7,865
    Net income
 $           7,455
 
 $         18,314
 
 $         21,558
           
Earnings per share:
         
Basic
 $             0.72
 
 $             1.75
 
 $             2.03
Diluted
 $             0.72
 
 $             1.74
 
 $             2.01
           
Weighted-average number of shares outstanding:
         
Basic
     10,315,263
 
     10,462,933
 
     10,606,570
Diluted
     10,348,579
 
     10,529,634
 
     10,723,933
 
 
            PEOPLES BANCORP INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
            CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
 
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
Common
Stock
 
Retained Earnings
Accumulated Comprehensive (Loss) Income
Treasury
Stock
Total
Balance, December 31, 2005
 $   162,231
 
 $     30,740
 
 $       (1,116)
 
 $    (8,778)
 
 $   183,077
Net income
   
        21,558
         
        21,558
Other comprehensive income, net of tax
       
              137
     
            137
Cash dividends declared of $0.83 per share
   
        (8,859)
         
        (8,859)
Stock option exercises
           (878)
         
         3,575
 
          2,697
Tax benefit from exercise of stock options
            384
             
            384
Purchase of treasury stock
           
       (1,214)
 
        (1,214)
Common stock issued under dividend
            577
             
            577
     reinvestment plan
                 
Stock-based compensation expense
            280
             
            280
Issuance of common stock related to acquisitions:
               
     Putnam Agency, Inc.
              19
         
           121
 
            140
     Barengo Insurance Agency, Inc.
              41
         
           369
 
            410
Adjustment to initally apply SFAS 158, net of tax
     
          (2,018)
     
        (2,018)
Balance, December 31, 2006
 $   162,654
 
 $     43,439
 
 $       (2,997)
 
 $    (5,927)
 
 $   197,169
Net income
   
        18,314
         
        18,314
Other comprehensive income, net of tax
       
           6,011
     
          6,011
Cash dividends declared of $0.88 per share
   
        (9,226)
         
        (9,226)
Stock option exercises
           (626)
         
         1,585
 
            959
Tax benefit from exercise of stock options
            146
             
            146
Purchase of treasury stock
           
     (12,350)
 
      (12,350)
Common stock issued under dividend
            848
             
            848
     reinvestment plan
                 
Stock-based compensation expense
            391
             
            391
Issuance of common stock related to acquisitions:
               
     Putnam Agency, Inc.
              (5)
         
           129
 
            124
     Barengo Insurance Agency, Inc.
              (9)
         
           459
 
            450
Balance, December 31, 2007
 $   163,399
 
 $     52,527
 
 $        3,014
 
 $   (16,104)
 
 $   202,836
Net income
   
          7,455
         
          7,455
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax
       
        (15,302)
     
      (15,302)
Cash dividends declared of $0.91 per share
   
        (9,470)
         
        (9,470)
Stock option exercises
           (113)
         
           296
 
            183
Tax benefit from exercise of stock options
             (32)
             
             (32)
Purchase of treasury stock
           
          (506)
 
           (506)
Common stock issued under dividend
            964
             
            964
     reinvestment plan
                 
Stock-based compensation expense
            498
             
            498
Balance, December 31, 2008
 $   164,716
 
 $     50,512
 
 $     (12,288)
 
 $   (16,314)
 
 $   186,626

See Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
 

            PEOPLES BANCORP INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
            CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

 
Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)
2008
 
2007
 
2006
Operating activities
         
Net income
 $    7,455
 
 $  18,314
 
 $  21,558
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
       
  Depreciation, amortization, and accretion, net
      5,749
 
      7,188
 
      8,653
  Provision for loan losses
     27,640
 
      3,959
 
      3,622
  Bank owned life insurance income
     (1,582)
 
     (1,661)
 
     (1,637)
  Net loss (gain) on investment securities
      2,592
 
      6,062
 
        (265)
  Loans originated for sale
   (31,069)
 
   (40,582)
 
   (36,285)
  Proceeds from sales of loans
     32,546
 
     40,065
 
     36,806
  Net gains on sales of loans
        (555)
 
        (750)
 
        (720)
  Deferred income tax benefit
     (2,861)
 
        (988)
 
        (256)
  (Decrease) increase in accrued expenses
        (429)
 
     (1,941)
 
      2,129
  Decrease (increase) in interest receivable
      1,055
 
         610
 
     (1,099)
  Other, net
     (4,977)
 
         605
 
     (1,533)
    Net cash provided by operating activities
     35,564
 
     30,881
 
     30,973
Investing activities
         
Available-for-sale securities:
         
  Purchases
 (457,226)
 
 (151,912)
 
   (52,195)
  Proceeds from sales
   156,767
 
         151
 
     11,101
  Proceeds from maturities, calls and prepayments
   137,292
 
   136,491
 
     82,013
Net (increase) decrease in loans
     (3,109)
 
      9,260
 
   (64,493)
Net expenditures for premises and equipment
     (3,449)
 
     (3,027)
 
     (2,711)
Proceeds from sales of other real estate owned
         273
 
         107
 
         670
Acquisitions, net of cash received
             –
 
     (1,070)
 
     (1,453)
Sale of banking offices and other assets
         775
 
             –
 
     (2,843)
Investment in limited partnership and tax credit funds
        (249)
 
        (426)
 
     (1,349)
    Net cash used in investing activities
 (168,926)
 
   (10,426)
 
   (31,260)
Financing activities
         
Net increase in non-interest-bearing deposits
      4,983
 
      4,136
 
      7,734
Net increase (decrease) in interest-bearing deposits
   174,900
 
   (51,453)
 
   139,497
Net (decrease) increase in short-term borrowings
 (123,689)
 
     27,658
 
     21,187
Proceeds from long-term borrowings
   140,000
 
   115,000
 
     30,000
Payments on long-term borrowings
   (63,682)
 
   (83,814)
 
 (191,672)
Cash dividends paid on common shares
     (8,423)
 
     (8,373)
 
     (8,164)
Purchase of treasury stock
        (506)
 
   (12,350)
 
     (1,214)
Proceeds from issuance of common stock
         210
 
         989
 
      2,719
Redemption of trust preferred securities
             –
 
     (7,000)
 
         (25)
Excess tax (expense) benefit for share based payments
         (33)
 
         146
 
         383
    Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
   123,760
 
   (15,061)
 
         445
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents
     (9,602)
 
      5,394
 
         158
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
     45,200
 
     39,806
 
     39,648
    Cash and cash equivalents at end of year
 $  35,598
 
 $  45,200
 
 $  39,806
Supplemental cash flow information:
         
   Interest paid
 $  48,138
 
 $  60,037
 
 $  54,444
   Income taxes paid
      4,395
 
      5,253
 
      5,446
   Value of shares issued for acquisitions
             –
 
         574
 
         550
 
See Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
56

 
PEOPLES BANCORP INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements 
 
Peoples Bancorp Inc. is a financial holding company that offers a full range of financial services and products, including commercial and retail banking, insurance, brokerage and trust services, through its principal operating subsidiary, Peoples Bank, National Association (“Peoples Bank”).  Services are provided through 49 financial service locations and 38 automated teller machines in Ohio, West Virginia and Kentucky, as well as internet-based banking.
 

 
Note 1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

 
The accounting and reporting policies of Peoples Bancorp Inc. and Subsidiaries (“Peoples” refers to, Peoples Bancorp Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries collectively, except where the context indicates the reference relates solely to Peoples Bancorp Inc.) conform to generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“US GAAP”) and to general practices within the banking industry.  The preparation of the financial statements in conformity with US GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes.  Actual results could differ from those estimates.  Certain items in prior financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the current presentation, which had no impact on net income, comprehensive income or loss, net cash provided by operating activities or stockholders’ equity.
 
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed in the preparation of the financial statements:
 
Consolidation: Peoples’ Consolidated Financial Statements include subsidiaries in which Peoples has a controlling financial interest, principally defined as owning a voting interest greater than 50%.  In addition, entities not controlled by voting interests or in which the equity investors do not bear the residual economic risks, but for which Peoples is the primary beneficiary are also consolidated.
 
The Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of Peoples and its consolidated subsidiaries, Peoples Bank and Peoples Investment Company, along with their wholly-owned subsidiaries.  Peoples previously formed two statutory business trusts described in Note 10 that are variable interest entities under FIN 46 for which Peoples is not the primary beneficiary.  As a result, the accounts of these trusts are not included in Peoples’ Consolidated Financial Statements.  All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.
 
Cash and Cash Equivalents: Cash and cash equivalents include cash and due from banks, interest-bearing deposits in other banks, Federal Funds sold and other short-term investments, all with original maturities of ninety days or less.
 
Investment Securities: Investment securities are recorded initially at cost, which includes premiums and discounts if purchased at other than par or face value.  Peoples amortizes premiums and accretes discounts as an adjustment to interest income on a level yield basis.  The cost of investment securities sold, and any resulting gain or loss, is based on the specific identification method and recognized as of the trade date.
 
Management determines the appropriate classification of investment securities at the time of purchase.  Held-to-maturity securities are those securities that Peoples has the positive intent and ability to hold to maturity and are recorded at amortized cost.  Available-for-sale securities are those securities that would be available to be sold in the future in response to Peoples’ liquidity needs, changes in market interest rates, and asset-liability management strategies, among other considerations.  Available-for-sale securities are reported at fair value, with unrealized holding gains and losses reported in stockholders’ equity as a separate component of other comprehensive income or loss, net of applicable deferred income taxes.  Trading securities are those securities bought and held principally for the purpose of selling in the near term.  Trading securities are reported at fair value, with holding gains and losses recognized in earnings.  Presently, Peoples classifies its entire investment portfolio as available-for-sale.
 
Certain restricted equity securities that do not have readily determinable fair values and for which Peoples does not exercise significant influence, are carried at cost.  These cost method securities are reported as other investment securities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets and consist solely of shares of the Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”) of Cincinnati and the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland.
 
Management systematically evaluates investment securities for other-than-temporary declines in fair value on a quarterly basis.  This analysis requires management to consider various factors, which include (1) duration and magnitude of the decline in value, (2) the financial condition of the issuer or issuers, (3) structure of the security and (4) Peoples’ ability and intent to continue holding the investment for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in market value.  Declines in estimated fair value of investment securities below their cost that are deemed to be other-than-temporary are recorded in earnings as realized losses.
 
Securities Sold Under Agreements to Repurchase: Peoples enters into sales of securities under agreements to repurchase (“Repurchase Agreements”) with customers and other financial service companies, which are treated as financings.  The obligations to repurchase securities sold are recorded as a liability on the Consolidated Balance Sheets and disclosed in Notes 8 and 9.  Securities pledged as collateral under Repurchase Agreements are included in investment securities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.  The fair value of the collateral pledged to a third party is continually monitored and additional collateral is pledged or returned, as deemed appropriate.
 
Loans: Loans originated that Peoples has the positive intent and ability to hold for the foreseeable future or to maturity or payoff are reported at the principal balance outstanding, net of deferred loan fees and costs and an allowance for loan losses.  The foreseeable future is based upon current market conditions and business strategies, as well as balance sheet management and liquidity.  As the conditions change, so may management’s view of the foreseeable future.  Net deferred loan costs were $946,000 and $578,000 at December 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively.
 
A loan is considered impaired, based on current information and events, if it is probable that collection of principal and interest payments when due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement is doubtful.  Impaired loans include commercial loans placed on nonaccrual status, renegotiated or internally classified as substandard or doubtful (as those terms are defined by banking regulations) and meet the definition of impaired loans.  The amount of impairment is based on the fair value of the underlying collateral if repayment is expected solely from the sale of the collateral.  Amounts deemed uncollectible are charged-off against the allowance for loan losses.  Consumer and residential real estate loans typically are not placed on nonaccrual, and instead are charged down to the net realizable value.
 
Loans acquired in a business combination that have evidence of deterioration of credit quality since origination and for which it is probable, at acquisition, that Peoples will be unable to collect all contractually required payments receivable are initially recorded at fair value (the present value of the amounts expected to be collected) with no valuation allowance.  The difference between the undiscounted cash flows expected at acquisition and the investment in the loan, or the “accretable yield”, is recognized as interest income on a level-yield method over the life of the loan. Contractually required payments for interest and principal that exceed the undiscounted cash flows expected at acquisition, or the “nonaccretable difference”, are not recognized as a yield adjustment or as a loss accrual or a valuation allowance.
 
Over the life of these acquired loans, management continues to monitor each acquired loan portfolio for changes in credit quality.  Subsequent increases in expected cash flows subsequent to acquisition are recognized prospectively over their remaining life as a yield adjustment on the loans.  Subsequent decreases in expected cash flows are recognized as impairment, with the amount of the expected loss included in management’s evaluation of the adequacy of the allowance for loan loss.
 
Loans Held for Sale: Loans originated and intended to be sold in the secondary market, generally one-to-four family residential loans, are carried at the lower of cost or estimated fair value determined on an aggregate basis.  Gains and losses on sales of loans held for sale are included in mortgage banking income.
 
Peoples enters into interest rate lock commitments with borrowers and best efforts commitments with investors on loans originated for sale into the secondary markets.  Peoples uses these commitments to manage the inherent interest rate and pricing risk associated with selling loans in the secondary market.  The interest rate lock commitments generally terminate once the loan is funded, the lock period expires or the borrower decides not to contract for the loan.  The best efforts commitments generally terminate once the loan is sold, the commitment period expires or the borrower decides not to contract for the loan.  These commitments are considered derivatives which are generally accounted for by recognizing their estimated fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheets as either a freestanding asset or liability.  The valuation of such commitments does not consider expected cash flows related to the servicing of the future loan.  Management has determined these derivatives do not have a material effect on Peoples’ financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
 
Allowance for Loan Losses: The allowance for loan losses is a valuation allowance for management’s estimate of the probable credit losses inherent in the loan portfolio.  Management’s evaluation of the adequacy of the allowance for loan loss and the appropriate provision for loan losses is based upon a quarterly evaluation of the portfolio.  This formal analysis is inherently subjective and requires management to make significant estimates of factors affecting loan losses, including specific losses, levels and trends in impaired and nonperforming loans, historical loan loss experience, current national and local economic conditions, volume, growth and composition of the portfolio, regulatory guidance and other relevant factors.  Loans deemed to be uncollectible are charged against the allowance for loan losses, while recoveries of previously charged-off amounts are credited to the allowance for loan losses.
 
The amount of the allowance for the various loan types represents management’s estimate of expected losses from existing loans based upon specific allocations for individual lending relationships and historical loss experience for each category of homogeneous loans adjusted for certain qualitative risk factors.  The allowance for loan loss related to an impaired loan is 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.  This evaluation requires management to make estimates of the amounts and timing of future cash flows on impaired loans, which consist primarily of nonaccrual and restructured loans.  While allocations are made to specific loans and pools of loans, the allowance is available for all loan losses.
 
Bank Premises and Equipment: Bank premises and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation.  Depreciation is computed on the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the related assets owned.  Major improvements to leased facilities are capitalized and included in bank premises at cost less accumulated depreciation, which is calculated on the straight-line method over the lesser of the remaining term of the leased facility or the estimated economic life of the improvement.
 
Bank Owned Life Insurance: Bank owned life insurance (“BOLI”) represents life insurance on the lives of certain employees who have provided positive consent allowing Peoples Bank to be the beneficiary of such policies.  These policies are recorded at their cash surrender value, or the amount that can be realized upon surrender of the policy.  Income from these policies and changes in the cash surrender value are recorded in other income.
 
Other Real Estate Owned: Other real estate owned (“OREO”), included in other assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, is comprised primarily of commercial and residential real estate properties acquired by Peoples Bank in satisfaction of a loan.  OREO obtained in satisfaction of a loan is recorded at the lower of cost or estimated fair value based on appraised value at the date actually or constructively received, less estimated costs to sell the property.  Bank premises that management has made the decision to sell are transferred at the lower of carrying value or estimated fair value, less estimated costs to sell the property.  Peoples had OREO totaling $525,000 at December 31, 2008, and $343,000 at December 31, 2007.
 
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets: Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquisition over the fair value of the net assets acquired in the business combination.  Goodwill is not amortized but is tested for impairment at least annually and updated quarterly if necessary.  Based upon the most recently completed goodwill impairment test, Peoples concluded the recorded value of goodwill was not impaired as of December 31, 2008, based upon the estimated fair value of Peoples’ single reporting unit.
 
Peoples’ other intangible assets consist of customer relationship intangible assets, primarily core deposit intangibles, representing the present value of future net income to be earned from acquired customer relationships with definite useful lives.  These intangible assets are amortized on an accelerated basis over their estimated lives ranging from 7 to 10 years.
 
Mortgage Servicing Assets: Mortgage servicing rights (“MSRs”) represent the right to service loans sold to third party investors.  MSRs are recognized separately as a servicing asset or liability whenever Peoples undertakes an obligation to service financial assets.
 
Peoples initially records MSRs at fair value at the time of the sale of the loans to the third party investor.  Peoples follows the amortization method for the subsequent measurement of each class of separately recognized servicing assets and liabilities.  Under the amortization method, Peoples amortizes the value of servicing assets or liabilities in proportion to and over the period of estimated net servicing income or net servicing loss and assesses servicing assets or liabilities for impairment or increased obligation based on fair value at each reporting date.  The fair value of the mortgage servicing rights is determined by using a discounted cash flow model, which estimates the present value of the future net cash flows of the servicing portfolio based on various factors, such as servicing costs, expected prepayment speeds and discount rates.
 
MSRs are reported in other intangible assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.  Serviced loans are not included in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.   Loan servicing income included in mortgage banking income includes servicing fees received from the third party investors and certain charges collected from the borrowers.
 
Trust Assets Under Management: Peoples Bank manages certain assets held in a fiduciary or agency capacity for customers.  These assets under management, other than cash on deposit at Peoples Bank, are not included in the Consolidated Balance Sheets since they are not assets of Peoples Bank.
 
Interest Income Recognition: Interest income on loans and investment securities is recognized by methods that result in level rates of return on principal amounts outstanding.  Amortization of premiums has been deducted from, and accretion of discounts has been added to, the related interest income.  Nonrefundable loan fees and direct loan costs are deferred and recognized over the life of the loan as an adjustment of the yield.
 
Peoples discontinues the accrual of interest on loans when management believes collection of all or a portion of contractual interest has become doubtful, which generally occurs when a contractual payment on a loan is 90 days past due.  When interest is deemed uncollectible, amounts accrued in the current year are reversed and amounts accrued in prior years are charged against the allowance for loan losses.  Interest received on nonaccrual loans is included in income only if principal recovery is reasonably assured.  A nonaccrual loan is restored to accrual status when it is brought current, has performed in accordance with contractual terms for a reasonable period of time, and the collectibility of the total contractual principal and interest is no longer in doubt.
 
Other Income Recognition: Service charges on deposits include cost recovery fees associated with services provided, such as overdraft and non-sufficient funds.  Trust and investment income consists of revenue from fiduciary activities, which include fees for services such as asset management, recordkeeping, retirement services and estate management, and investment commissions and fees related to the sale of investments.  Income from these activities is recognized at the time the related services are performed.
 
Insurance income consists of commissions and fees from the sales of insurance policies and related insurance services.  Insurance commission income is recognized as of the effective date of the insurance policy, net of adjustments, including policy cancellations.  Such adjustments are recorded when the amount can be reasonably estimated, which is generally in the period in which they occur.  Contingent performance-based commissions from insurance companies are recognized when received and no contingencies remain.
 
Income Taxes: Peoples and its subsidiaries file a consolidated federal income tax return. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are provided for temporary differences between the tax basis of an asset or liability and its reported amount in the Consolidated Financial Statements at the statutory Federal tax rate.  A valuation allowance, if needed, reduces deferred tax assets to the expected amount most likely to be realized.  Realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon the generation of a sufficient level of future taxable income and recoverable taxes paid in prior years.  The components of other comprehensive income or loss included in the Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity have been computed based upon a 35% statutory Federal tax rate.
 
In the normal course of business, Peoples is routinely subject to examinations and challenges from federal and state tax authorities regarding positions taken in its tax returns.  Any challenge or examination by a tax authority may result in adjustments to the timing or amount of taxable net worth or taxable income or deductions or the allocation of income among tax jurisdictions.  Such adjustments, if not resolved in Peoples’ favor, could have a material adverse effect on Peoples’ financial condition and results of operation.
 
  A tax position is initially recognized in the financial statements when it is more likely than not the position will be sustained upon examination by the tax authorities.  Such tax positions are initially and subsequently measured as the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement with the tax authority assuming full knowledge of the position and all relevant facts.  Penalties and interest incurred under the applicable tax law are classified as income tax expense. The amount of Peoples’ uncertain income tax positions, unrecognized benefits and accrued interest were immaterial at both December 31, 2008 and 2007.
 
Advertising Costs: Advertising costs are generally expensed as incurred.
 
Earnings per Share: Basic earnings per share are determined by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding.  Diluted earnings per share is determined by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding increased by the number of common shares that would be issued pursuant to Peoples’ stock-based compensation awards.  The dilutive effect of stock-based compensation awards approximated 33,316; 66,701 and 117,363 in 2008; 2007 and 2006, respectively.
 
Operating Segments: Peoples’ business activities are currently confined to one reporting unit and reportable segment which is community banking.  As a community banking entity, Peoples offers its customers a full range of products through various delivery channels.
 
Stock-Based Compensation: Compensation costs for stock options, restricted stock awards and stock appreciation rights are measured at the fair value of these awards on their grant date. The fair value of stock options and stock appreciation rights is estimated based upon a Black-Scholes model, while the market price of Peoples’ common shares at the grant date is used to estimate the fair value of restricted stock awards.  Compensation expense is recognized over the required service period, generally the vesting period for stock options and stock appreciation rights and the restriction period for restricted stock awards.  Compensation expense for awards granted to employees who are eligible for retirement is recognized to the date the employee is first eligible to retire.
 
New Accounting Pronouncements: On January 12, 2009, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position No. EITF 99-20-1, Amendments to the Impairment Guidance of EITF Issue No. 99-20 (“FSP 99-20-1”) to achieve more consistent determination of whether an other-than-temporary impairment has occurred.  FSP 99-20-1 retains and emphasizes the objective of other-than-temporary impairment assessment and the related disclosure requirements in FASB Statement No. 115, Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities, and other related guidance.  FSP 99-20-1 is effective for interim and annual reporting periods ending after December 15, 2008, and shall be applied prospectively.  Retrospective application to prior reporting periods is prohibited.  Peoples adopted the measurement and disclosure requirements of FSP 99-20-1 on December 31, 2008, as required, which did not have a material impact.
 
On December 30, 2008, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position No. FAS 132(r)-1, Employers’ Disclosures about Postretirement Benefit Plan Assets (“FSP 132(r)-1”).  FSP 132(r)-1 amended FASB Statement No. 132(r), Employers’ Disclosures about Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans to require additional disclosures about assets held in an employer’s defined benefit  pension or other postretirement benefit plan, including the fair value of each major asset category.   FSP 132(r)-1 is effective for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2009, with early application permitted.  Peoples will adopt the disclosure requirements of FSP 132(r)-1 on December 31, 2009, as required, and adoption is not expected to have a material impact.
 
On May 9, 2008, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 162, The Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“SFAS 162”).  SFAS 162 established a framework for selecting accounting principles to be used in preparing financial statements that are presented in conformity with US GAAP.  SFAS 162 is effective 60 days following the SEC's approval of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board Auditing amendments to AU Section 411, The Meaning of Present Fairly in Conformity with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, and is not expected to have an impact on Peoples’ Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
On April 25, 2008, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position No. FAS 142-3, Determination of the Useful Life of Intangible Assets (“FSP 142-3”).  FSP 142-3 amends FASB Statement No. 142, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, to require an entity to consider its own assumptions about renewal or extension assumptions used to determine the useful life over which to amortize the cost of a recognized intangible asset.  FSP 142-3 is required to be applied prospectively to intangible assets acquired after December 15, 2008.  The impact of adopting FSP 142-3 will depend on the amount and nature of intangible assets acquired through future acquisitions.
 
On March 19, 2008, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 161, Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities–an amendment of FASB Statement No. 133 (“SFAS 161”), which requires enhanced disclosures about an entity’s derivative and hedging activities intended to improve the transparency of financial reporting.  Under SFAS 161, entities will be required to provide enhanced disclosures about (a) how and why an entity uses derivative instruments, (b) how derivative instruments and related hedged items are accounted for under Statement 133 and its related interpretations and (c) how derivative instruments and related hedged items affect an entity’s financial position, financial performance and cash flows.  SFAS 161 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after November 15, 2008, with early application encouraged.  Peoples will adopt SFAS 161 effective January 1, 2009 and adoption is not anticipated to have a material impact on Peoples’ Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
On December 4, 2007, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 141 (revised 2007), Business Combinations (“SFAS 141(R)”) and No. 160, Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements – an amendment of ARB No. 51 (“SFAS 160”).  SFAS 141(R) replaces FASB Statement No. 141, Business Combinations (“SFAS 141”) and applies to all transactions and other events in which one entity obtains control over one or more other businesses.  SFAS 160 amends Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) No. 51, Consolidated Financial Statements, to establish accounting and reporting standards for the noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary and for the deconsolidation of a subsidiary.
 
Under SFAS 141(R), an acquirer, upon initially obtaining control of another entity, is required to recognize all assets acquired, liabilities assumed and noncontrolling interests in the acquiree at the acquisition date, at fair value as of the acquisition date.  Acquirers are no longer permitted to recognize a separate valuation allowance at acquisition date for loans acquired in a business combination since the fair value measurement of loans would consider the effects of any uncertainty about future cash flows.  Contingent consideration is required to be recognized and measured at fair value on the date of acquisition rather than at a later date when the amount of that consideration may be determinable beyond a reasonable doubt.  This fair value approach replaces the cost-allocation process required under SFAS 141 whereby the cost of an acquisition was allocated to the individual assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair value.
 
SFAS 141(R) also requires acquirers to expense acquisition-related costs as incurred rather than allocating such costs to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, as was permitted previously under SFAS 141.  Under SFAS 141(R), the requirements of SFAS 146, Accounting for Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities, would have to be met in order to accrue for a restructuring plan in purchase accounting.  Pre-acquisition contingencies are to be recognized at fair value, unless it is a non-contractual contingency that is not likely to materialize, in which case, no amount should be recognized in purchase accounting and, instead, that contingency would be accounted for under the requirements of FASB Statement No. 5, Accounting for Contingencies.
 
SFAS 160 clarifies that a noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary, which is sometimes referred to as minority interest, is an ownership interest in the consolidated entity that should be reported as a component of equity in the consolidated financial statements.  Among other requirements, SFAS 160 requires consolidated net income to be reported at amounts that include the amounts attributable to both the parent and the noncontrolling interest. It also requires disclosure, on the face of the consolidated income statement, of the amounts of consolidated net income attributable to the parent and to the noncontrolling interest.
 
Both SFAS 141(R) and SFAS 160 are effective for fiscal years beginning on or after December 15, 2008.  Early adoption is prohibited.  Peoples will adopt the provisions of these statements on January 1, 2009, as required, and adoption is not expected to have a material impact on Peoples’ Consolidated Financial Statements taken as a whole.
 
In June 2007, the FASB Emerging Issues Task Force released Issue 06-11 “Accounting for Income Tax Benefits of Dividends on Share-Based Payment Awards” (“Issue 06-11”), which requires companies to recognize the tax benefit received on dividends that are charged to retained earnings under FASB Statement No. 123(R).  Issue 06-11 requires companies to recognize tax benefits of dividends on unvested share-based payments in equity as a component of additional paid-in capital and reclassify those tax benefits from additional paid-in capital to the income statement if the related award is forfeited.  Issue 06-11 is effective for dividends declared in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2007, and retrospective application is prohibited.  Peoples adopted the provisions of Issue 06-11 on January 1, 2008, which did not have a material impact on Peoples’ Consolidated Financial Statements taken as a whole.
 
On February 15, 2007, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 159, The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities—Including an amendment of FASB Statement No. 115 (“SFAS 159”), which permits companies to choose to measure many financial instruments and certain other items at fair value.  The objective of SFAS 159 is to improve financial reporting by providing companies with the opportunity to mitigate volatility in reported earnings caused by measuring related assets and liabilities differently.  Peoples adopted SFAS 159 effective January 1, 2008, as required, but has not elected to measure any permissible items at fair value.  As a result, the adoption of SFAS 159 has not had any impact on Peoples’ Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
On September 29, 2006, the FASB issued Statement No. 158, “Employers’ Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans – an amendment of FASB Statements No. 87, 88, 106 and 132(R)” (“SFAS 158”).  SFAS 158 requires employers to recognize in their statement of financial position an asset for a plan’s overfunded status or a liability for a plan’s underfunded status, with fluctuations in the funded status recognized through comprehensive income in the year in which the changes occur.  Peoples’ adopted the recognition and disclosure provisions of SFAS 158 on December 31, 2006, as required.
 
SFAS 158 also requires entities to measure a defined benefit postretirement plan’s assets and obligations that determine its funded status as of the end of the employer’s fiscal year.  The measurement date change is effective for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2008.  Peoples currently measures its defined benefit pension plan assets and obligations as of December 31.  Thus, the adoption of the measurement date provisions of SFAS 158 will have no impact on Peoples’ Consolidated Financial Statements taken as a whole.  Refer to Note 13 for these disclosures and further discussion on Peoples’ pension and postretirement plans.
 
On September 15, 2006, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157, Fair Value Measurements (“SFAS 157”), which replaces various definitions of fair value in existing accounting literature with a single definition, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and requires additional disclosures about fair value measurements upon adoption.  SFAS 157 clarifies that fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or the price paid to transfer a liability in the most advantageous market available to the entity and emphasizes that fair value is a market-based measurement and should be based on the assumptions market participants would use.  SFAS 157 also creates a three-level hierarchy under which individual fair value estimates are to be ranked based on the relative reliability of the inputs used in the valuation.  This hierarchy is the basis for the disclosure requirements, with fair value estimates based on the least reliable inputs requiring more extensive disclosures about the valuation method used and the gains and losses associated with those estimates.  SFAS 157 is required to be applied whenever another financial accounting standard requires or permits an asset or liability to be measured at fair value.  The statement does not expand the use of fair value to any new circumstances.
 
On February 12, 2008, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position No. FAS 157-2, Effective Date of FASB Statement No. 157 (“FSP 157-2”). FSP 157-2 amends SFAS 157 to delay the effective date for nonfinancial assets and nonfinancial liabilities, except for items that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements on a recurring basis, which means at least annually.  For items within its scope, Peoples will be required to apply the new guidance beginning January 1, 2009.  Management is still determining the impact adoption will have on Peoples’ Consolidated Financial Statements.  For all other items, Peoples applied the guidance as of January 1, 2008, as required, and adoption did not have a material impact on Peoples’ Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
On October 10, 2008, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position No. FAS 157-3, Determining the Fair Value of a Financial Asset When the Market for That Asset Is Not Active (“FSP 157-3”).  FSP 157-3 clarifies the application of SFAS 157 in a market that is not active and provides an example to illustrate key considerations in determining the fair value of a financial asset when the market for that financial asset is not active. FSP 157-3 was effective immediately upon issuance, and includes prior periods for which financial statements have not been issued.  Peoples applied the guidance contained in FSP 157-3 in determining fair values at September 30, 2008, although it did not have a material impact on Peoples’ Consolidated Financial Statements.
 

 
Note 2. Fair Values of Financial Instruments


Effective January 1, 2008, Peoples adopted SFAS 157, which established a hierarchy for measuring fair value that is intended to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs.  This hierarchy uses three levels of inputs to measure the fair value of assets and liabilities as follows:
 
Level 1: Quoted prices in active exchange markets for identical assets or liabilities; also includes certain U.S. Treasury and other U.S. government and agency securities actively traded in over-the-counter markets.
 
Level 2: Observable inputs other than Level 1 including quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities, quoted prices in less active markets, or other observable inputs that can be corroborated by observable market data; also includes derivative contracts whose value is determined using a pricing model with observable market inputs or can be derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data.  This category generally includes certain U.S. government and agency securities, corporate debt securities, derivative instruments, and residential mortgage loans held for sale.
 
Level 3: Unobservable inputs supported by little or no market activity for financial instruments whose value is determined using pricing models, discounted cash flow methodologies, or similar techniques, as well as instruments for which the determination of fair value requires significant management judgment or estimation; also includes observable inputs for single dealer nonbinding quotes not corroborated by observable market data. This category generally includes certain private equity investments, retained interests from securitizations, and certain collateralized debt obligations.
 
Assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis comprise the following at December 31, 2008:
 
       
Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using
(Dollars in thousands)
Fair Value
 
Quoted Prices
 in Active Markets for Identical
Assets
Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
Significant Unobservable Inputs
       
 (Level 1)
 
(Level 2)
 
(Level 3)
                       
Available-for-sale investment securities
$
    684,757
 
$
            2,575
 
$
        676,760
 
$
            5,422
 
The investment securities measured at fair value utilizing Level 1 and 2 inputs are obligations of the U.S. Treasury, agencies and corporations of the U.S. government, including mortgage-backed securities, bank eligible obligations of any state or political subdivision in the U.S., bank eligible corporate obligations, including private-label mortgage-backed securities and common stocks issued by various unrelated banking holding companies.  The fair values used by Peoples are obtained from an independent pricing service and represent either quoted market prices for the identical securities (Level 1 inputs) or fair values determined by pricing models that consider observable market data, such as interest rate volatilities, LIBOR yield curve, credit spreads and prices from market makers and live trading systems.
 
The investment securities measured at fair value using Level 3 inputs are comprised of four collateralized debt obligations, with a total book value of $4.2 million, and a single corporate obligation, with a total book value of $1.0 million, for which there is not an active market.  Peoples uses multiple input factors to determine the fair value of these securities.  Those input factors are discounted cash flow analysis, structure of the security in relation to current level of deferrals and/or defaults, changes in credit ratings, financial condition of the debtors within the underlying securities, broker quotes for securities with similar structure and credit risk, interest rate movements and pricing of new issuances.
 
 
The following is a reconciliation of activity for assets measured at fair value based on significant unobservable (non-market) information:
 
 
Investment Securities
Balance, January 1, 2008
$
          9,004
Transfers into Level 3
 
          2,083
Transfers out of Level 3
 
        (2,078)
Other-than-temporary impairment loss recognized in earnings
        (4,000)
Unrealized gain included in comprehensive income
 
             413
Balance, December 31, 2008
$
        5,422

Certain financial assets and financial liabilities are measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis; that is, the instruments are not measured at fair value on an ongoing basis but are subject to fair value adjustments in certain circumstances (for example, when there is evidence of impairment).  Financial assets measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis included the following:
 
Impaired Loans: Impaired loans are measured and reported at fair value in accordance with the provisions of FASB Statement No. 114, Accounting by Creditors for Impairment of a Loan.  Management’s determination of the fair value for these loans represents the estimated net proceeds to be received from the sale of the collateral based on observable market prices and market value provided by independent, licensed or certified appraisers (Level 2 Inputs).  At December 31, 2008, impaired loans with an aggregate outstanding principal balance of $28.9 million were measured and reported at a fair value of $24.0 million.  During 2008, Peoples recognized losses on impaired loans of $18.0 million through the allowance for loan losses.
 
FASB Statement No. 107, Disclosures about Fair Value of Financial Instruments, requires disclosure of the fair value of financial assets and financial liabilities, including those financial assets and financial liabilities that are not measured and reported at fair value on a recurring basis or non-recurring basis.  The methodologies for estimating the fair value of financial assets and financial liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring or non-recurring basis are discussed above.  The estimated fair value approximates carrying value for cash and cash equivalents, demand and other non-maturity deposits and overnight borrowings.  Peoples used the following methods and assumptions in estimating the fair value of the following financial instruments:
 
Loans: The fair value of performing variable rate loans that reprice frequently and performing demand loans, with no significant change in credit risk, is based on carrying value.  The fair value of fixed rate performing loans is estimated using discounted cash flow analyses and interest rates currently being offered for loans with similar terms to borrowers of similar credit quality.
 
The fair value of significant nonperforming loans is based on either the estimated fair value of underlying collateral or estimated cash flows, discounted at a rate commensurate with the risk.  Assumptions regarding credit risk, cash flows, and discount rates are determined using available market information and specific borrower information.
 
Deposits: The fair value of fixed maturity certificates of deposit is estimated using a discounted cash flow calculation based on current rates offered for deposits of similar remaining maturities.
 
Short-term Borrowings: The fair value of term national market repurchase agreements is estimated using a discounted cash flow calculation based on rates currently available to Peoples for repurchase agreements with similar terms.
 
Long-term Borrowings: The fair value of long-term borrowings is estimated using discounted cash flow analysis based on rates currently available to Peoples for borrowings with similar terms.
 
Junior Subordinated Notes Held by Subsidiary Trusts: The fair value of the junior subordinated notes held by subsidiary trusts is estimated using discounted cash flow analysis based on current market rates of securities with similar risk and remaining maturity.
 
Other Financial Instruments: The fair value of loan commitments and standby letters of credit is estimated using the fees currently charged to enter into similar agreements considering the remaining terms of the agreements and the counter parties’ credit standing.  The estimated fair value of these commitments approximates their carrying value.
 
The estimated fair values of Peoples' financial instruments at December 31 are as follows:
 
2008
 
2007
 
Carrying
 
Fair
 
Carrying
 
Fair
(Dollars in thousands)
Amount
 
Value
 
Amount
 
Value
Financial assets:
             
Cash and cash equivalents
 $       35,598
 
 $       35,598
 
 $       45,200
 
 $       45,200
Investment securities
        708,753
 
        708,753
 
        565,463
 
        565,463
Loans
     1,081,101
 
     1,088,322
 
     1,105,223
 
     1,111,215
               
Financial liabilities:
             
Deposits
 $  1,366,368
 
 $  1,376,614
 
 $  1,186,377
 
 $  1,187,872
Short-term borrowings
          98,852
 
          98,852
 
        222,541
 
        222,541
Long-term borrowings
        308,297
 
        324,809
 
        231,979
 
        233,785
Junior subordinated notes held by
     subsidiary trusts
          22,495
 
          26,009
 
          22,460
 
          24,601
               
Other financial instruments:
             
Interest rate contracts
 $                 -
 
 $                 -
 
 $                5
 
 $                5
 
    Bank premises and equipment, customer relationships, deposit base, banking center networks, and other information required to compute Peoples' aggregate fair value are not included in the above information.  Accordingly, the above fair values are not intended to represent the aggregate fair value of Peoples.
 

 
Note 3. Investment Securities 


The following tables present the amortized costs, gross unrealized gains and losses and estimated fair value of securities available-for-sale at December 31:
 
(Dollars in thousands)
Amortized
Cost
Gross
Unrealized
Gains
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
Estimated
Fair Value
2008
             
Obligations of U.S. Treasury and
             
   government agencies
 $             176
 
 $                  1
 
 $                 (1)
 
 $            176
Obligations of U.S. government sponsored agencies
             6,308
 
                 277
 
                      -
 
            6,585
Obligations of states and political subdivisions
           67,830
 
              1,356
 
                (256)
 
          68,930
Mortgage-backed securities
         544,897
 
              4,628
 
           (14,050)
 
        535,475
Other securities
           77,644
 
              2,792
 
             (6,845)
 
          73,591
    Total available-for-sale securities
 $   696,855
 
 $         9,054
 
 $      (21,152)
 
 $  684,757
               
2007
             
Obligations of U.S. Treasury and
             
   government agencies
 $             194
 
 $                  4
 
 $                 (1)
 
 $            197
Obligations of U.S. government sponsored agencies
           83,556
 
                 917
 
                  (16)
 
          84,457
Obligations of states and political subdivisions
           68,142
 
              1,202
 
                  (97)
 
          69,247
Mortgage-backed securities
         357,863
 
              2,482
 
             (1,662)
 
        358,683
Other securities
           26,224
 
              3,945
 
                (522)
 
          29,647
    Total available-for-sale securities
 $   535,979
 
 $         8,550
 
 $        (2,298)
 
 $  542,231
 
At December 31, 2008, there were no securities of a single issuer, other than U.S. Treasury and government agencies and U.S. government sponsored agencies that exceeded 10% of stockholders' equity.  At December 31, 2008 and 2007, investment securities having a carrying value of $619,347,000 and $500,845,000, respectively, were pledged to secure public and trust department deposits and repurchase agreements in accordance with federal and state requirements.
 

    The gross gains and gross losses realized by Peoples from sales of available-for-sale for the years ended December 31 were as follows:
 
(Dollars in thousands)
2008
 
2007
 
2006
Gross gains realized
 $    2,740
 
 $       143
 
 $        265
Gross losses realized
 $    1,072
 
 $    6,205
 
 $            –
Net gain (loss) realized
 $    1,668
 
 $   (6,062)
 
 $        265

The following table presents a summary of available-for-sale investment securities that had an unrealized loss at December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
Obligations of
U.S. Treasury
 and government agencies
Obligations of
U.S.
government sponsored agencies
Obligations
of states and political subdivisions
Mortgage-backed securities
Other
securities
Total
available-for-sale
securities
2008
                     
Less than 12 months
                     
   Estimated fair value
 $               –
 
 $                   –
 
 $         10,521
 
 $   217,877
 
 $        44,289
 
 $     272,687
   Unrealized loss
                  –
 
                      –
 
                 256
 
        11,374
 
             4,718
 
          16,348
12 months or more
                     
   Estimated fair value
 $             29
 
 $                   –
 
 $                  –
 
 $     38,318
 
 $          3,342
 
 $       41,689
   Unrealized loss
                  1
 
                      –
 
                     –
 
          2,676
 
             2,127
 
            4,804
Total Estimated fair value
 $             29
 
 $                   –
 
 $         10,521
 
 $   256,195
 
 $        47,631
 
 $     314,376
Total Unrealized loss
                  1
 
                      –
 
                 256
 
        14,050
 
             6,845
 
          21,152
2007
                     
Less than 12 months
                     
   Estimated fair value
 $               –
 
 $                   –
 
 $           7,886
 
 $       5,174
 
 $          1,546
 
 $       14,606
   Unrealized loss
                  –
 
                      –
 
                   87
 
               18
 
                    4
 
               109
12 months or more
                     
   Estimated fair value
 $             32
 
 $            5,554
 
 $           4,182
 
 $   123,889
 
 $          3,623
 
 $     137,280
   Unrealized loss
                  1
 
                    16
 
                   10
 
          1,644
 
                518
 
            2,189
Total Estimated fair value
 $             32
 
 $            5,554
 
 $         12,068
 
 $   129,063
 
 $          5,169
 
 $     151,886
Total Unrealized loss
                  1
 
                    16
 
                   97
 
          1,662
 
                522
 
            2,298
 
The unrealized losses at both December 31, 2008 and 2007, were attributable to changes in market interest rates since the securities were purchased.  During 2008, management determined certain investment securities with an aggregate carrying value of $8.1 million were other-than-temporarily impaired, resulting in impairment charges totaling $4.0 million.  Management does not believe any of the remaining individual investment securities with an unrealized loss at December 31, 2008, represented an other-than-temporary impairment since Peoples has the ability and intent to hold those securities for a period of time sufficient to recover the amortized cost.
 
The following table presents the amortized costs, fair value and weighted-average yield of securities by contractual maturity at December 31, 2008.  The average yields are based on the amortized cost.  In some cases, the issuers may have the right to call or prepay obligations without call or prepayment penalties prior to the contractual maturity date.  Rates are calculated on a fully tax-equivalent basis using a 35% Federal income tax rate.
 

 
(Dollars in thousands)
Obligations of
 U.S. Treasury
 and government agencies
Obligations of
U.S. government
sponsored
agencies
Obligations of
states and
political
subdivisions
Mortgage-
backed
securities
Other
securities
Total
available-for-
sale securities
Within one year
                     
   Amortized cost
 $                    –
 
 $                        –
 
 $               1,133
 
 $                 18
 
 $                  –
 
 $           1,151
   Fair value
                       –
 
                           –
 
                  1,146
 
                    18
 
                     –
 
              1,164
   Average yield
                       –
 
                           –
 
5.86%
 
9.81%
 
                     –
 
5.92%
1 to 5 years
                     
   Amortized cost
 $                    –
 
 $                        –
 
 $             15,964
 
 $            6,280
 
 $                  –
 
 $         22,244
   Fair value
                       –
 
                           –
 
                16,255
 
               6,423
 
                     –
 
            22,678
   Average yield
                       –
 
                           –
 
6.30%
 
4.51%
 
                     –
 
5.79%
5 to 10 years
                     
   Amortized cost
 $                   92
 
 $                 6,308
 
 $             23,891
 
 $        110,104
 
 $                  –
 
 $       140,395
   Fair value
                      92
 
                    6,585
 
                24,696
 
           105,483
 
                     –
 
          136,856
   Average yield
4.24%
 
5.62%
 
6.21%
 
4.89%
 
                     –
 
5.15%
Over 10 years
                     
   Amortized cost
 $                   84
 
 $                        –
 
 $             26,842
 
 $        428,495
 
 $         77,644
 
 $       533,065
   Fair value
                      84
 
                           –
 
                26,833
 
           423,551
 
            73,591
 
          524,059
   Average yield
5.36%
 
                           –
 
6.01%
 
5.34%
 
5.99%
 
5.47%
Total amortized cost
 $                 176
 
 $                 6,308
 
 $             67,830
 
 $        544,897
 
 $         77,644
 
 $       696,855
Total fair value
                    176
 
                    6,585
 
                68,930
 
           535,475
 
            73,591
 
          684,757
Total average yield
4.77%
 
5.62%
 
6.14%
 
5.24%
 
5.99%
 
5.42%

 
Note 4.  Loans 


Peoples Bank originates various types of loans including commercial loans, real estate loans and consumer loans, focusing primarily on lending opportunities in central and southeastern Ohio, northwestern West Virginia, and northeastern Kentucky markets.
 

 
The major classifications of loan balances, excluding loans held for sale, at December 31 were as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
2008
 
2007
Commercial, mortgage
 $      478,298
 
 $      513,847
Commercial, other
         178,834
 
         171,937
Real estate, construction
           77,917
 
           71,794
Real estate, mortgage
         279,413
 
         280,347
Consumer
           87,902
 
           80,544
Deposit account overdrafts
             1,668
 
             2,472
    Total loans
 $1,104,032
 
 $1,120,941
 
Peoples has acquired various loans through business combinations for which there was, at acquisition, evidence of deterioration of credit quality since origination and for which it was probable that all contractually required payments would not be collected.  The carrying amounts of these loans at December 31 included in the loan balances above are summarized as follows:
 
(Dollars in thousands)
2008
 
2007
Commercial, mortgage
 $         5,330
 
 $         7,794
Commercial, other
            1,277
 
            1,464
Real estate, mortgage
          23,781
 
          30,294
Consumer
               263
 
               423
    Total outstanding balance
 $     30,651
 
 $     39,975
    Net carrying amount
 $     29,900
 
 $     38,615


Peoples Bank has pledged certain loans secured by 1-4 family and multifamily residential mortgages and commercial mortgages under a blanket collateral agreement to secure borrowings from the FHLB as discussed in Note 8.  At December 31, 2008, the amount of such pledged loans totaled $394.5 million.
 
Nonperforming/Past Due Loans
Nonperforming loans at December 31 were as follows:
(Dollars in thousands)
2008
 
2007
Loans 90+ days past due and accruing
 $           –
 
 $       378
Nonaccrual loans
     41,320
 
       8,980
    Total nonperforming loans
 $41,320
 
 $   9,358
 
    Certain loans included in the nonaccrual loan totals above are not considered impaired and evaluated individually by Peoples.  These loans consist primarily of smaller balance homogenous consumer and residential real estate loans that are collectively evaluated for impairment and totaled $1.8 million at both December 31, 2008 and 2007.

Impaired Loans
The following tables summarize loans classified as impaired at or for the years ended December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
   
2008
 
2007
Impaired loans with an allocated allowance for loan losses
 $  11,504
 
 $     8,457
Impaired loans with no allocated allowance for loan losses
 
     28,146
 
        4,453
    Total impaired loans
   
 $39,650
 
 $ 12,910
Allowance for loan losses allocated to impaired loans
 
 $    4,340
 
 $     2,498
           
(Dollars in thousands)
2008
 
2007
 
2006
Average investment in impaired loans
 $  25,644
 
 $  16,412
 
 $   18,374
Interest income recognized on impaired loans
 $       108
 
 $       826
 
 $        883

Interest received on impaired loans is included in income if principal recovery is reasonably assured.
 
Related Party Loans
    In the normal course of its business, Peoples Bank has granted loans to executive officers and directors of Peoples.  Related party loans were made on substantially the same terms, including interest rates charged and collateral required, as those prevailing at the time for comparable loans with unrelated persons and did not involve more than normal risk of collectibility.  At December 31, 2008, no related party loan was past due 90 or more days, renegotiated or on nonaccrual status.  The following is an analysis of activity of related party loans for the year ended December 31, 2008:

(Dollars in thousands)
 
Balance, December 31, 2007
 $   14,506
  New loans and disbursements
        8,958
  Repayments
     (10,126)
  Other changes
          (151)
    Balance, December 31, 2008
 $ 13,187

Allowance for Loan Losses
Changes in the allowance for loan losses for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2008, were as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
2008
 
2007
 
2006
Balance, beginning of year
 $   15,718
 
 $   14,509
 
 $   14,720
Charge-offs
     (21,969)
 
       (4,701)
 
       (5,484)
Recoveries
        1,542
 
        1,951
 
        1,651
    Net charge-offs
     (20,427)
 
       (2,750)
 
       (3,833)
Provision for loan losses
      27,640
 
        3,959
 
        3,622
    Balance, end of year
 $ 22,931
 
 $ 15,718
 
 $ 14,509


Note 5.  Bank Premises and Equipment 

 
The major categories of bank premises and equipment and accumulated depreciation at December 31 are summarized as follows:
(Dollars in thousands)
2008
 
2007
Land
 $     5,764
 
 $     5,331
Building and premises
      30,737
 
      30,073
Furniture, fixtures and equipment
      17,626
 
      16,601
    Total bank premises and equipment
      54,127
 
      52,005
Accumulated depreciation
     (29,016)
 
     (27,202)
    Net book value
 $ 25,111
 
 $ 24,803

Peoples depreciates its building and premises and furniture, fixtures and equipment over estimated useful lives generally ranging from 5 to 40 years and 2 to 10 years, respectively.  Depreciation expense was $2,066,000, $2,061,000 and $2,128,000, in 2008, 2007 and 2006, respectively.
 

Leases
Peoples leases certain banking facilities and equipment under various agreements with original terms providing for fixed monthly payments over periods generally ranging from two to ten years.  Certain leases contain renewal options and rent escalation clauses calling for rent increases over the term of the lease.  All leases which contain a rent escalation clause are accounted for on a straight-line basis. Rent expense was $739,000, $748,000 and $725,000 in 2008, 2007 and 2006, respectively.
 
Peoples leases certain properties from related parties.  Payments related to these leases totaled $162,000, $183,000 and $191,000 in 2008, 2007 and 2006, respectively.  The terms of these leases are substantially the same as those offered for comparable transactions with non-related parties at the time the lease transactions were consummated.
 
The future minimum payments under noncancelable operating leases with initial or remaining terms of one year or more consisted of the following at December 31, 2008:
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
2009
 $        861
2010
           845
2011
           831
2012
           824
2013
           842
Thereafter
        2,309
    Total payments
 $    6,512


Note 6.  Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets 


Goodwill
Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the years ended December 31, were as follows:
(Dollars in thousands)
2008
 
2007
Balance at January 1
 $   62,520
 
 $     61,373
Contingent consideration earned
               –
 
          1,147
    Balance at December 31
 $ 62,520
 
 $   62,520


The increase in goodwill in 2007 relates to contingent consideration earned and paid by Peoples in connection with the acquisitions of Barengo Insurance Agency, Inc. (“Barengo”), based in Marietta, Ohio, and substantially all of the assets of Putnam Agency, Inc. (“Putnam Agency”), with offices in Ashland, Kentucky and Huntington, West Virginia, both of which occurred in 2004.
 
 
Peoples performed the required goodwill impairment tests and concluded the recorded value of goodwill was not impaired as of December 31, 2008, based upon the estimated fair value of the single reporting unit.
 
Other intangible assets
 Other intangible assets were comprised of the following at December 31:
 
 
Gross
     
Net
 
Intangible
 
Accumulated
 
Intangible
(Dollars in thousands)
Asset
 
Amortization
 
Asset
2008
         
Core deposits
 $         10,564
 
 $         (9,042)
 
 $           1,522
Customer relationships
              6,182
 
            (4,537)
 
              1,645
 
 $       16,746
 
 $     (13,579)
 
 $         3,167
Mortgage servicing rights
       
                 719
    Total other intangible assets
       
 $         3,886
           
2007
         
Core deposits
 $         10,564
 
 $         (8,159)
 
 $           2,405
Customer relationships
              6,182
 
            (3,834)
 
              2,348
 
 $       16,746
 
 $     (11,993)
 
 $         4,753
Mortgage servicing rights
       
                 756
    Total other intangible assets
       
 $         5,509
 
    The estimated aggregate future amortization expense of core deposit and customer relationship intangible assets at December 31, 2008, is as follows:
 
Core
 
Customer
   
(Dollars in thousands)
Deposits
 
Relationships
 
Total
2009
 $        677
 
 $             575
 
 $     1,252
2010
           472
 
                446
 
           918
2011
           269
 
                316
 
           585
2012
           104
 
                202
 
           306
2013
               –
 
                106
 
           106
Thereafter
               –
 
                    –
 
               –
    Total
 $    1,522
 
 $        1,645
 
 $    3,167

The following is an analysis of activity of MSRs for the years ended December 31:
 
(Dollars in thousands)
2008
 
2007
 
2006
Balance, beginning of year
 $        756
 
 $        792
 
 $        813
Amortization
          (318)
 
          (350)
 
          (282)
Servicing rights originated
           281
 
           314
 
           261
    Balance, end of year
 $       719
 
 $       756
 
 $       792

No valuation allowances were required at December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 for Peoples’ MSRs since the fair value exceeded the book value.
 
 
Note 7.  Deposits 


Peoples’ deposit balances were comprised of the following at December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
2008
 
2007
Retail certificates of deposit:
     
   $100,000 or more
 $         235,257
 
 $        144,324
   Less than $100,000
            390,938
 
           355,360
      Total retail certificates of deposit
            626,195
 
           499,684
Interest-bearing transaction accounts
            187,100
 
           191,359
Money market deposit accounts
            213,498
 
           153,299
Savings accounts
            115,419
 
           107,389
   Total retail interest-bearing deposits
         1,142,212
 
           951,731
Brokered certificates of deposits
              44,116
 
             59,589
   Total interest-bearing deposits
         1,186,328
 
        1,011,320
Non-interest-bearing deposits
            180,040
 
           175,057
      Total deposit balances
 $   1,366,368
 
 $  1,186,377
 
The contractual maturities of certificates of deposits for each of the next five years and thereafter are as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
Retail
 
Brokered
 
Total
2009
 $   421,816
 
 $    39,128
 
 $   460,944
2010
      108,841
 
         4,988
 
      113,829
2011
        50,815
 
                –
 
        50,815
2012
        29,316
 
                –
 
        29,316
2013
        15,169
 
                –
 
        15,169
Thereafter
             238
 
                –
 
             238
    Total maturities
 $ 626,195
 
 $  44,116
 
 $670,311
 
Included in the amount to mature in 2009 is $19.2 million of brokered deposits with a total interest cost of 2.50% that matured in January 2009.  Deposits from related parties approximated $9.9 million and $8.0 million at December 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively.
 

 
Note 8.  Short-term Borrowings 


Peoples utilizes various short-term borrowings as sources of funds, which are summarized as follows:
 
(Dollars in thousands)
Retail
Repurchase Agreements
FHLB
Advances
National
Market Repurchase
Agreements
Other Short-
Term
Borrowings
2008
             
Ending balance
 $               54,452
 
 $        30,000
 
 $               –
 
 $                14,400
Average balance
                  39,329
 
         102,146
 
                  –
 
                     1,195
Highest month end balance
                  56,079
 
         186,100
 
                  –
 
                   14,400
Interest expense
                       813
 
             2,557
 
                  –
 
                          13
Weighted-average interest rate:
             
   End of year
1.26%
 
0.34%
 
– %
 
0.50%
   During the year
2.07%
 
2.50%
 
– %
 
1.09%




(Dollars in thousands)
Retail
Repurchase
 Agreements
FHLB
Advances
National
Market Repurchase
Agreements
Other Short-
Term
Borrowings
2007
             
Ending balance
 $               35,041
 
 $      187,500
 
 $               –
 
 $                         –
Average balance
                  34,770
 
         197,915
 
            4,425
 
                          33
Highest month end balance
                  36,515
 
         264,400
 
            7,000
 
                            –
Interest expense
                    1,526
 
           10,065
 
               242
 
                            2
Weighted-average interest rate:
             
   End of year
3.96%
 
2.50%
 
– %
 
– %
   During the year
4.39%
 
5.09%
 
5.47%
 
6.06%
               
2006
             
Ending balance
 $               31,683
 
 $      158,200
 
 $         5,000
 
 $                         –
Average balance
                  31,479
 
         178,235
 
            1,246
 
                            2
Highest month end balance
                  36,768
 
         259,700
 
            5,000
 
                            –
Interest expense
                    1,306
 
             9,067
 
                 70
 
                            –
Weighted-average interest rate:
             
   End of year
4.57%
 
5.18%
 
5.34%
 
– %
   During the year
4.15%
 
5.09%
 
5.62%
 
– %

The FHLB advances consist of overnight borrowings and other advances with an original maturity of one year or less.  These advances, along with the long-term advances disclosed in Note 9, are collateralized by residential and non-residential mortgage loans and investment securities.  Peoples’ borrowing capacity with the FHLB is based on the amount of collateral pledged and the amount of FHLB common stock owned.  The most restrictive requirement of the debt agreement requires Peoples to provide commercial real estate mortgage loans as collateral in an amount not less than 300% of advances outstanding.
 
Peoples’ national market repurchase agreements consist of agreements with unrelated financial service companies that have original maturities of one year or less.
 
Peoples’ retail repurchase agreements consist of overnight agreements with Peoples’ commercial customers and serve as a cash management tool.
 
Other short-term borrowings consist of Federal Funds purchased and advances from the Federal Reserve Discount Window.  Federal Funds purchased are short-term borrowings from correspondent banks that typically mature within one to ninety days.  Peoples has available Federal Funds of $25 million from certain of its correspondent banks.  Interest on Federal funds purchased is set daily by the correspondent bank based on prevailing market rates.  The Federal Reserve Discount Window provides credit facilities to financial institutions, which are designed to ensure adequate liquidity by providing a source of short-term funds.  Discount Window advances are typically overnight and must be secured by collateral acceptable to the lending Federal Reserve Bank.
 
 
Note 9.  Long-term Borrowings 


Long-term borrowings consisted of the following at December 31:
 
2008
 
2007
(Dollars in thousands)
Balance
 
Weighted-Average
Rate
Balance
 
Weighted-Average Rate
Callable national market repurchase agreements
 $  155,000
 
4.06%
 
 $    95,000
 
4.45%
Non-callable national market repurchase agreements
         5,000
 
4.97%
 
       53,750
 
3.76%
FHLB convertible rate advances
       24,500
 
5.38%
 
       24,500
 
5.38%
FHLB putable, fixed rate advances
       10,000
 
3.20%
 
       10,000
 
3.20%
FHLB amortizing, fixed rate advances
       23,797
 
3.94%
 
       13,729
 
3.93%
FHLB non-amortizing, non-callable fixed rate advances
       40,000
 
4.62%
 
       35,000
 
4.82%
FHLB non-amortizing, callable, fixed rate advances
       50,000
 
3.29%
 
                 -
 
0.00%
    Total long-term borrowings
 $308,297
 
4.09%
 
 $231,979
 
4.36%
 
Peoples’ national market repurchase agreements consist of agreements with unrelated financial service companies and have original maturities ranging from 2 to 10 years.  In general, these agreements may not be terminated by Peoples prior to the maturity without incurring additional costs.  The callable agreements contain call option features, in which the buyer has the right, at its discretion, to terminate the repurchase agreement after an initial period ranging from 3 months to 5 years.  After the initial call period, the buyer has the right to terminate the agreement on a quarterly basis thereafter until maturity.  If the buyer exercises its option, Peoples would be required to repay the agreement in whole at the quarterly date.
 
The FHLB advances consist of various borrowings with original maturities ranging from 2 to 25 years that generally may not be repaid prior to maturity without Peoples incurring a penalty.  The rate on the convertible rate advances are fixed from initial periods ranging from one to four years, depending on the specific advance.  After the initial fixed rate period, the FHLB has the option to convert each advance to a LIBOR based, variable rate advance.  If the FHLB exercises its option, Peoples may repay the advance in whole or in part on the conversion date or any subsequent repricing date without a prepayment fee.  At all other times, early repayment of any convertible rate advance would result in Peoples incurring a prepayment penalty.  For the putable advances, the FHLB has the option, at its sole discretion following an initial period of three months, to terminate the debt and require Peoples to repay the advance prior to the final stated maturity.  After the initial period, the FHLB has the option to terminate the debt on a quarterly basis.  If the advance is terminated prior to maturity, the FHLB will offer Peoples replacement funding at the then-prevailing rate on an advance product then-offered by the FHLB, subject to normal FHLB underwriting criteria. As discussed in Note 8, long-term FHLB advances are collateralized by assets owned by Peoples.
 
The aggregate minimum annual retirements of long-term borrowings in the next five years and thereafter are as follows:
 
(Dollars in thousands)
Balance
 
Weighted-Average Rate
2009
 $     67,025
 
4.98%
2010
        32,393
 
4.33%
2011
        44,472
 
4.53%
2012
        36,615
 
4.20%
2013
          1,532
 
3.98%
Thereafter
      126,260
 
3.37%
    Total long-term borrowings
 $308,297
 
4.09%
 





 
Note 10. Junior Subordinated Notes Held By Subsidiary Trusts 


Peoples previously formed two statutory business trusts (the “Trusts”) for the purpose of issuing or participating in pools of corporation-obligated mandatorily redeemable capital securities (the “Capital Securities” or “Trust Preferred Securities”), with 100% of the common equity in the Trusts owned by Peoples.  The proceeds from the Capital Securities and common equity were invested in junior subordinated debt securities of Peoples (the “Debentures”).
 
 
The Debentures held by the trusts are the sole assets of those trusts.  Distributions on the Capital Securities are payable semiannually at a rate per annum equal to the interest rate being earned by the Trusts on the Debentures and are recorded as interest expense by Peoples.  Since the Trusts are variable interest entities and Peoples is not deemed to be the primary beneficiary, the Trusts are not included in Peoples’ Consolidated Financial Statements.  As a result, Peoples includes the Debentures as a separate category of long-term debt on the Consolidated Balance Sheets entitled “Junior Subordinated Notes Held by Subsidiary Trusts” and the related expense as interest expense on the Consolidated Statements of Income.
 
Under the provisions of the Debentures, Peoples has the right to defer payment of interest on the Debentures at any time, or from time to time, for periods not exceeding five years.  If interest payments on the Debentures are deferred, the dividends on the Capital Securities are also deferred and Peoples will be prohibited from paying dividends on its common shares.  Interest on the Debentures is cumulative.  Peoples has entered into agreements which, taken collectively, fully and unconditionally guarantee the Capital Securities subject to the terms of each of the guarantees.
 
The Capital Securities are subject to mandatory redemption, in whole or in part, upon repayment of the Debentures.  The Debentures held by PEBO Capital Trust I are first redeemable, in whole or in part, by Peoples on May 1, 2009.  On April 23, 2007, Peoples repaid the entire $7.2 million of the Debentures held by PEBO Capital Trust II, which had a then current rate of 9.10%.  As a result of this repayment, PEBO Capital Trust II redeemed all of the outstanding Capital Securities and common equity and was dissolved in accordance with the terms of the Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust of PEBO Capital Trust II.
 
Under the risk-based capital standards for bank holding companies adopted by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, the Trust Preferred Securities qualify as Tier 1 capital for regulatory capital purposes, subject to certain quantitative limits and qualitative standards.  Specifically, the aggregate amount of trust preferred securities and certain other capital elements that qualify as Tier 1 capital is limited to 25% of core capital elements, net of goodwill, with the excess amount not qualifying for Tier 1 capital being included in Tier 2 capital.  Additionally, trust preferred securities no longer qualify for Tier 1 capital within five years of their maturity.  The redemption of the Capital Securities issued by PEBO Capital Trust II had a minimal impact on Peoples’ regulatory capital ratios.
 
The Capital Securities issued by the Trusts at December 31 are summarized as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
 
2008
 
2007
Capital Securities of PEBO Capital Trust I, 8.62%, due May 1, 2029,
 $           22,495
 
 $           22,460
  net of unamortized issuance costs
       
         
    Amount qualifying for Tier 1 capital
 
 $           22,495
 
 $           22,460

Note 11. Stockholders’ Equity 


The following table details the progression in balances of Peoples’ common and treasury stock during the years presented:
 
 
Common
 
Treasury
 
Stock
    Stock
Balance, December 31, 2005
  10,869,655
 
        350,675
Stock-based compensation
   
        (137,286)
Purchase of treasury stock
   
            42,594
Common stock issued under dividend
            19,587
   
     reinvestment plan
     
Issuance of common stock related to acquisitions:
     
     Putnam Agency, Inc.
   
            (4,662)
     Barengo Insurance Agency, Inc.
   
          (14,064)
Balance, December 31, 2006
  10,889,242
 
        237,257




 
Common
 
Treasury
 
Stock
 
          Stock
Balance, December 31, 2006
  10,889,242
 
        237,257
Stock-based compensation
              5,703
 
          (57,988)
Purchase of treasury stock
   
          471,327
Common stock issued under dividend
            31,009
   
     reinvestment plan
     
Issuance of common stock related to acquisitions:
     
     Putnam Agency, Inc.
   
            (4,662)
     Barengo Insurance Agency, Inc.
   
          (16,728)
Balance, December 31, 2007
  10,925,954
 
        629,206
Stock-based compensation
              7,475
 
          (11,093)
Purchase of treasury stock
   
            23,367
Common stock issued under dividend
            41,935
   
     reinvestment plan
     
Balance, December 31, 2008
  10,975,364
 
        641,480
 
On January 22, 2009, Peoples’ shareholders adopted an amendment to Article FOURTH of Peoples’ Amended Articles of Incorporation to authorize the issuance of up to 50,000 preferred shares.  The preferred shares may be issued by Peoples’ Board of Directors in one or more series, from time to time, with each such series to consist of such number of shares and to have such voting powers, designations, preferences, rights, qualifications, limitations and restrictions as determined by the Board of Directors.  On January 28, 2009, Peoples’ Board of Directors adopted an amendment to Peoples’ Amended Articles of Incorporation to create a series of preferred shares designated as Peoples’ Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Shares, Series A, each without par value and having a liquidation preference of $1,000 per share (the “Series A Preferred Shares”).  These actions enabled Peoples to obtain final approval for a $39 million capital investment from the United States Department of the Treasury (“U.S. Treasury”) through the TARP Capital Purchase Program established by the U.S. Treasury under the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008.
 
On January 30, 2009, Peoples issued and sold to the U.S. Treasury (i) 39,000 of Peoples’ Series A Preferred Shares, and (ii) a ten-year warrant (the “Warrant”) to purchase 313,505 Peoples common shares (“Common Shares”), at an exercise price of $18.66 per share (subject to certain anti-dilution and other adjustments), for an aggregate purchase price of $39 million in cash.
 
Under standardized TARP Capital Purchase Program terms, cumulative dividends on the Series A Preferred Shares will accrue on the liquidation preference at a rate of 5% per annum for the first five years and at a rate of 9% per annum thereafter.  These dividends will be paid only if, as and when declared by Peoples’ Board of Directors.  The Series A Preferred Shares have no maturity date and rank senior to the Common Shares with respect to the payment of dividends and distributions and amounts payable upon liquidation, dissolution and winding up of Peoples.  Subject to the approval of the Appropriate Federal Banking Agency (as defined in the Securities Purchase Agreement, which for Peoples is the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System), the Series A Preferred Shares are redeemable at the option of Peoples at 100% of their liquidation preference plus accrued and unpaid dividends, provided that the Series A Preferred Shares may be redeemed prior to February 15, 2012, only if (i) Peoples has raised aggregate gross proceeds in one or more Qualified Equity Offerings (as defined in the Securities Purchase Agreement) in excess of $9,750,000 and (ii) the aggregate redemption price of the Series A Preferred Shares does not exceed the aggregate net proceeds from such Qualified Equity Offerings.  The Series A Preferred Shares are generally non-voting.
 
The U.S. Treasury may not transfer a portion or portions of the Warrant with respect to, and/or exercise the Warrant for more than one-half of, the 313,505 Common Shares issuable upon exercise of the Warrant, in the aggregate, until the earlier of (i) the date on which Peoples has received aggregate gross proceeds of not less than $39 million from one or more Qualified Equity Offerings and (ii) December 31, 2009.  In the event Peoples completes one or more Qualified Equity Offerings on or prior to December 31, 2009, that result in Peoples receiving aggregate gross proceeds of not less than $39 million, the number of the Common Shares underlying the portion of the Warrant then held by the U.S. Treasury will be reduced by one-half of the Common Shares originally covered by the Warrant.  The U.S. Treasury has agreed not to exercise voting power with respect to any Common Shares issued to it upon exercise of the Warrant.  Any Common Shares issued by Peoples upon exercise of the Warrant will be issued from Common Shares held in treasury to the extent available.  If no treasury shares are available, Common Shares will be issued from authorized but unissued Common Shares.
 
The Securities Purchase Agreement, pursuant to which the Series A Preferred Shares and the Warrant were sold, contains limitations on the payment of dividends on the Common Shares after January 30, 2009.  Prior to the earlier of (i) January 30, 2012 and (ii) the date on which the Series A Preferred Shares have been redeemed in whole or the U.S. Treasury has transferred the Series A Preferred Shares to third parties which are not Affiliates (as defined in the Securities Purchase Agreement) of the U.S. Treasury, any increase in common share dividends by Peoples or any of its subsidiaries would be prohibited without the prior approval of the U.S. Treasury.
 
 
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (the “ARRA”) passed by the United States Congress and signed by the President on February 17, 2009, provides that the U.S. Treasury, subject to consultation with the Appropriate Federal Banking Agency, must permit a TARP recipient to repay any assistance previously provided under TARP, without regard to whether the TARP recipient has replaced those funds from any other source or to any waiting period.  As a result, subject to consultation with the Federal Reserve Board, the U.S. Treasury must permit Peoples to redeem the Series A Preferred Shares at the appropriate redemption price without regard to whether the redemption price is to be paid from proceeds of a qualified equity offering or any other source or when the redemption date occurs.  If the Series A Preferred Shares were redeemed, the U.S. Treasury must liquidate the related Warrant at the current market price.  The U.S. Treasury is to promulgate regulations to implement the procedures under which a TARP participant may repay any assistance received.  As of the date of this Annual Report, the U.S. Treasury had not yet issued such regulations.
 

 
Note 12. Comprehensive (Loss) Income 


The components of other comprehensive (loss) income for the years ended December 31 were as follows:
(Dollars in thousands)
2008
 
2007
 
2006
Net income
 $    7,455
 
 $  18,314
 
 $  21,558
Other comprehensive (loss) income:
         
Available-for-sale investment securities:
         
Gross unrealized holding (loss) gain arising in the period
    (20,941)
 
       1,697
 
          475
  Related tax benefit (expense)
       7,329
 
         (594)
 
         (166)
Less: reclassification adjustment for net (loss) gain included in net income
      (2,592)
 
      (6,062)
 
          265
  Related tax benefit (expense)
          907
 
       2,122
 
           (93)
    Net effect on other comprehensive (loss) income
    (11,927)
 
       5,043
 
          137
Defined benefit plans:
         
Net (loss) gain arising during the period
      (5,206)
 
       1,327
 
              –
  Related tax benefit (expense)
       1,822
 
         (464)
 
              –
Amortization of unrecognized loss and service cost on pension plan
            13
 
          162
 
              –
  Related tax expense
             (4)
 
           (57)
 
              –
    Net effect on other comprehensive (loss) income
      (3,375)
 
          968
 
              –
    Total other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax
    (15,302)
 
       6,011
 
          137
    Total comprehensive (loss) income
 $ (7,847)
 
 $24,325
 
 $21,695

Changes in the components of Peoples’ accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income for years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 were as follows:
 
     
Unrecognized
   
 
Unrealized
 
Net Pension and
 
Accumulated
 
(Loss) Gain
 
Postretirement
 
Comprehensive
(Dollars in thousands)
on Securities
 
Costs
 
(Loss) Income
Balance, December 31, 2005
 $          (1,116)
 
 $                     –
 
 $         (1,116)
Current period change, net of tax
                   137
 
                         –
 
                  137
Adjustment for initial application of FAS 158
                       –
 
                (2,018)
 
             (2,018)
Balance, December 31, 2006
 $             (979)
 
 $            (2,018)
 
 $         (2,997)
Current period change, net of tax
                5,043
 
                     968
 
               6,011
Balance, December 31, 2007
 $            4,064
 
 $            (1,050)
 
 $          3,014
Current period change, net of tax
             (11,927)
 
                (3,375)
 
           (15,302)
Balance, December 31, 2008
 $          (7,863)
 
 $            (4,425)
 
 $      (12,288)



Note 13. Employee Benefit Plans 


Peoples sponsors a noncontributory defined benefit pension plan that covers substantially all employees.  The plan provides retirement benefits based on an employee’s years of service and compensation.   In 2003, Peoples changed the methodology used to determine the retirement benefits for employees hired on or after January 1, 2003, which should result in a lower accumulated benefit obligation.  Peoples also has a contributory postretirement benefit plan for former employees who were retired as of December 31, 1992.  The plan provides health and life insurance benefits.  Peoples’ policy is to fund the cost of the benefits as they are incurred.
 
   The following tables provide a reconciliation of the changes in the plans’ benefit obligations and fair value of assets over the two-year period ending December 31, 2008, and a
statement of the funded status as of December 31, 2008 and 2007:
 
 
Pension
Benefits
 
Postretirement
Benefits
(Dollars in thousands)
2008
 
2007
 
2008
 
2007
Change in benefit obligation:
             
Obligation at January 1
 $ 11,868
 
 $ 13,548
 
 $      246
 
 $      560
Service cost
         763
 
         847
 
            –
 
            –
Interest cost
         781
 
         757
 
          15
 
          26
Plan participants’ contributions
            –
 
            –
 
         123
 
         122
Actuarial loss (gain)
         492
 
    (1,954)
 
         (35)
 
       (234)
Benefit payments
       (966)
 
    (1,331)
 
       (123)
 
       (194)
Increase due to plan changes
            –
 
            –
 
            –
 
         (34)
    Obligation at December 31
 $ 12,938
 
 $ 11,867
 
 $      226
 
 $      246
    Accumulated benefit obligation at December 31
 $ 11,164
 
 $   9,574
 
 $         –
 
 $         –
               
Change in plan assets:
             
Fair value of plan assets at January 1
 $ 14,326
 
 $ 15,050
 
 $         –
 
 $         –
Actual return on plan assets
    (3,520)
 
         607
 
            –
 
            –
Employer contributions
            –
 
            –
 
            –
 
          72
Plan participants’ contributions
            –
 
            –
 
         123
 
         122
Benefit payments
       (966)
 
    (1,331)
 
       (123)
 
       (194)
    Fair value of plan assets at December 31
 $   9,840
 
 $ 14,326
 
 $         –
 
 $         –
               
Funded status:
             
Funded status at December 31
 $  (3,098)
 
 $   2,459
 
 $    (226)
 
 $    (246)
Unrecognized prior service cost
            –
 
            –
 
            –
 
         (34)
Unrecognized net loss
            –
 
            –
 
            –
 
         (64)
    Net amount recognized
 $  (3,098)
 
 $   2,459
 
 $    (226)
 
 $    (344)
               
Amounts recognized in Consolidated Balance Sheets:
             
Prepaid benefit costs
 $         –
 
 $   2,459
 
 $         –
 
 $         –
Accrued benefit liability
    (3,098)
 
            –
 
       (226)
 
       (344)
    Net amount recognized
 $  (3,098)
 
 $   2,459
 
 $    (226)
 
 $    (344)
               
Amounts recognized in Accumulated Comprehensive (Loss) Income:
           
Unrecognized prior service cost
 $        20
 
 $        23
 
 $        20
 
 $         –
Unrecognized net loss
      4,410
 
      1,027
 
          61
 
            –
    Total
 $   4,430
 
 $   1,050
 
 $        81
 
 $         –
               
Weighted-average assumptions at year-end:
             
Discount rate
6.30%
 
6.70%
 
6.30%
 
6.70%
Rate of compensation increase
2.50%
 
3.50%
 
n/a
 
n/a

The estimated costs relating to Peoples’ pension benefits that will be amortized from accumulated comprehensive loss into net periodic cost over the next fiscal year are $4,000 of prior service costs and $126,000 of net loss.
 
 
Net Periodic Benefit Cost
The following table provides the components of net periodic benefit cost for the plans:

 
Pension Benefits
 
Postretirement Benefits
(Dollars in thousands)
2008
2007
2006
 
2008
2007
2006
Service cost
 $        763
 $        847
 $        869
 
 $            –
 $            –
 $            –
Interest cost
           781
           757
           756
 
             15
             26
             25
Expected return on plan assets
       (1,202)
       (1,191)
       (1,164)
 
               –
               –
               –
Amortization of prior service cost
               4
               2
               2
 
               –
               –
               –
Amortization of net loss
             10
           160
           256
 
              (7)
               3
               –
Settlements
               –
               –
               –
 
               –
               –
               –
    Net periodic benefit cost
 $       356
 $       575
 $       719
 
 $            8
 $         29
 $         25
               
Weighted-average assumptions:
             
Discount rate
6.70%
6.00%
5.75%
 
6.70%
6.00%
5.75%
Expected return on plan assets
8.50%
8.50%
8.50%
 
n/a
n/a
n/a
Rate of compensation increase
3.50%
3.50%
3.50%
 
n/a
n/a
n/a
 
For measurement purposes, a 10% annual rate of increase in the per capita cost of covered benefits (i.e., health care cost trend rate) was assumed for 2008, grading down 1% per year to an ultimate rate of 5% in 2013.  The health care trend rate assumption does not have a significant effect on the contributory defined benefit postretirement plan; therefore, a one percentage point increase or decrease in the trend rate is not material in the determination of the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation or the ongoing expense.
 
Determination of Expected Long-term Rate of Return
The expected long-term rate of return on the plans’ total assets is based on the expected return of each category of the plan’s assets.  Management considers the long-term historical returns of the assets within the portfolio and adjusts the rate, as necessary, for expected future returns on the assets in the plans in determining the rate.
 
Plan Assets
    Peoples’ investment strategy, as established by Peoples’ Retirement Plan Committee, is to invest assets based upon established target allocations.  The assets are reallocated periodically to meet the target allocations.  The investment policy is reviewed periodically, under the advisement of a certified investment advisor, to determine if the policy should be changed.  Peoples’ pension plan target and actual weighted-average asset allocations by asset category at December 31 are as follows:
 
 
Target
 
2008
 
2007
Equity securities
60 – 75%
 
62%
 
70%
Debt securities
24 – 39
 
34
 
26
Other
1
 
4
 
4
    Total
100%
 
100%
 
100%

Equity securities of Peoples’ pension plan did not include any securities of Peoples or related parties in 2008 or 2007.
 
 
Cash Flows
    Peoples has not determined if any contributions will be made to its pension plan in 2009; however, actual contributions are made at the discretion of the Retirement Plan Committee and Peoples’ Board of Directors.  Estimated future benefit payments, which reflect benefits attributable to estimated future service, for the years ending December 31 are as follows:
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
Pension
Benefits
Post-
retirement Benefits
2009
 
 $        1,033
 
 $             35
2010
 
              929
 
                34
2011
 
           1,092
 
                34
2012
 
           1,760
 
                27
2013
 
           1,147
 
                25
2014 to 2018
 
           6,836
 
                91
    Total
 
 $    12,797
 
 $         246
 
Retirement Savings Plan
Peoples also maintains a retirement savings plan, or 401(k) plan, which covers substantially all employees.  The plan provides participants the opportunity to save for retirement on a tax-deferred basis.  In addition, Peoples makes matching contributions equal to 100% of participants’ contributions that do not exceed 3% of the participants’ compensation, plus 50% of participants’ contributions between 3% and 5% of the participants’ compensation.  Matching contributions made by Peoples totaled $776,000, $740,000 and $698,000 for the years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006, respectively.
 

 
 
Note 14. Income Taxes 


The reported income tax expense and effective tax rate in the Consolidated Statements of Income differs from the amounts computed by applying the statutory corporate tax rate as follows for the years ended December 31:
 
2008
 
2007
 
2006
(Dollars in thousands)
Amount
 
Rate
 
Amount
 
Rate
 
Amount
 
Rate
Income tax computed at statutory federal tax rate
 $   2,665
 
  35.0%
 
 $   8,356
 
  35.0%
 
 $ 10,298
 
  35.0%
Differences in rate resulting from:
                     
  Tax-exempt interest income
        (924)
 
 (12.1)
 
        (831)
 
   (3.5)
 
        (940)
 
   (3.2)
  Investments in tax credit funds
        (689)
 
   (9.0)
 
        (640)
 
   (2.7)
 
        (613)
 
   (2.1)
  Bank owned life insurance
        (554)
 
   (7.3)
 
        (581)
 
   (2.4)
 
        (573)
 
   (2.0)
  Change in valuation allowance
        (321)
 
   (4.2)
 
        (635)
 
   (2.6)
 
           79
 
    0.3
  Other, net
          (17)
 
   (0.3)
 
        (109)
 
   (0.5)
 
        (386)
 
   (1.3)
    Total income taxes
 $     160
 
2.1%
 
 $  5,560
 
23.3%
 
 $  7,865
 
26.7%
 
Peoples’ income tax returns are subject to review and examination by federal and state taxing authorities. Peoples is currently open to audit under the applicable statutes of limitations by the Internal Revenue Service for the years ended December 31, 2005 through 2007.  The years open to examination by state taxing authorities vary by jurisdiction.
 
The significant components of Peoples' deferred tax assets and liabilities consisted of the following at December 31:


(Dollars in thousands)
2008
 
2007
Deferred tax assets:
     
  Allowance for loan losses
 $       8,548
 
 $       6,292
  Accrued employee benefits
          2,103
 
               97
  Deferred loan fees and costs
           (331)
 
           (202)
  Available-for-sale securities
          4,234
 
                 –
  AMT credit carryforward
          2,069
 
          1,656
  Other
             315
 
             260
  Valuation allowance
                 –
 
           (321)
    Total deferred tax assets
      16,938
 
         7,782
       
Deferred tax liabilities:
     
  Bank premises and equipment
          1,183
 
          1,105
  Deferred income
          1,013
 
          1,108
  Investments
             351
 
             (50)
  Available-for-sale securities
                 –
 
          2,188
  Other
          3,510
 
          3,651
    Total deferred tax liabilities
         6,057
 
         8,002
    Net deferred tax asset (liability)
 $   10,881
 
 $       (220)
 
The AMT tax credit carryforward at December 31, 2008 and 2007 may be carried over indefinitely.  The valuation allowance at December 31, 2007, represented the amount of the AMT credit carryforward that was estimated to not be realized in a reasonable period.  The related federal income tax (benefit) expense on securities transactions approximated ($907,000) in 2008, ($2,122,000) in 2007 and $93,000 in 2006.
 

 
Note 15. Financial Instruments with Off-Balance Sheet Risk 


In the normal course of business, Peoples is party to financial instruments with off-balance sheet risk necessary to meet the financing needs of customers and to manage its own exposure to fluctuations in interest rates.  These financial instruments include commitments to extend credit, standby letters of credit and interest rate caps.  The instruments involve, to varying degrees, elements of credit and interest rate risk in excess of the amount recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.  The contract or notional amounts of these instruments express the extent of involvement Peoples has in these financial instruments.
 
Loan Commitments and Standby Letters of Credit
Loan commitments are made to accommodate the financial needs of Peoples' customers.  Standby letters of credit are instruments issued by Peoples Bank guaranteeing the beneficiary payment by Peoples Bank in the event of default by Peoples Bank's customer in the nonperformance of an obligation or service.  Historically, most loan commitments and standby letters of credit expire unused.  Peoples' exposure to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by the counter-party to the financial instrument for loan commitments and standby letters of credit is represented by the contractual amount of those instruments.  Peoples uses the same underwriting standards in making commitments and conditional obligations as it does for on-balance sheet instruments.  The amount of collateral obtained is based on management's credit evaluation of the customer.  Collateral held varies, but may include accounts receivable, inventory, property, plant, and equipment, and income-producing commercial properties.
 
The total amounts of loan commitments and standby letters of credit at December 31 are summarized as follows:

 
Contractual Amount
(Dollars in thousands)
2008
 
2007
Loan commitments
 $ 201,194
 
 $ 176,835
Standby letters of credit
46,788
 
34,200
 
Interest Rate Contracts
At December 31, 2008, Peoples held an option to initiate an interest rate swap beginning on October 19, 2002, and continuing on a quarterly basis until its expiration in July 2009.  Under the terms of the interest rate swap, Peoples would receive LIBOR based variable rate payments and pay fixed rate payments to a counter-party, computed on a notional amount of $17 million.  Peoples entered into this interest rate contract to hedge a $17 million long-term, fixed rate FHLB advance, which could convert to a variable rate at the FHLB’s discretion.  At December 31, 2008, Peoples had not exercised its option under this interest rate contract since the advance remained a fixed rate advance.  Changes in estimated fair value of this interest rate contract are recorded in earnings and are immaterial.
 
 
Other
Peoples also has commitments to make additional capital contributions in low-income housing projects.  Such commitments approximated $1.1 million at December 31, 2008, and $1.3 million at December 31, 2007.  The maximum aggregate amounts Peoples could be required to make for each of the next five years are as follows: $247,000 in 2009; $240,000 in 2010; $234,000 in 2011; $185,000 in 2012 and $125,000 in 2013.
 

 
Note 16. Regulatory Matters 


The following is a summary of certain regulatory matters affecting Peoples and its subsidiaries:
 
Capital Requirements
Peoples and Peoples Bank are subject to various regulatory capital guidelines administered by the banking regulatory agencies.  Under capital adequacy requirements and the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action, Peoples and its banking subsidiary must meet specific capital guidelines that involve quantitative measures of each entity's assets, liabilities, and certain off-balance sheet items as calculated under regulatory accounting practices.  Peoples' and Peoples Bank’s capital amounts and classification are also subject to qualitative judgments by the regulators about components, risk weightings and other factors.  Failure to meet future minimum capital requirements can initiate certain mandatory and possibly additional discretionary actions by the regulators that, if undertaken, could have a material effect on Peoples’ financial results.
 
Quantitative measures established by regulation to ensure capital adequacy require Peoples and Peoples Bank to maintain minimum amounts and ratios of Total and Tier I capital (as defined in the regulations) to risk-weighted assets (as defined), and of Tier I capital (as defined) to average assets (as defined).  Peoples and Peoples Bank met all capital adequacy requirements at December 31, 2008.
 
As of December 31, 2008, the most recent notifications from the banking regulatory agencies categorized Peoples and Peoples Bank as well capitalized under the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action.  To be categorized as well capitalized, Peoples and Peoples Bank must maintain minimum Total risk-based, Tier I risk-based and Tier I leverage ratios as set forth in the table below.  There are no conditions or events since these notifications that management believes have changed Peoples or Peoples Bank's category.
 
Peoples and Peoples Bank’s actual capital amounts and ratios as of December 31 are also presented in the following table:
 
 
Peoples
 
Peoples Bank
(Dollars in thousands)
Amount
 
Ratio
 
Amount
 
Ratio
2008
             
Total Capital (1)
             
Actual
 $  173,470
 
13.2%
 
 $  158,030
 
12.1%
For capital adequacy
     105,253
 
8.0%
 
     104,715
 
8.0%
To be well capitalized
     131,566
 
10.0%
 
     130,894
 
10.0%
               
Tier 1 (2)
             
Actual
 $  156,254
 
11.9%
 
 $  141,587
 
10.8%
For capital adequacy
       52,626
 
4.0%
 
       52,357
 
4.0%
To be well capitalized
       78,939
 
6.0%
 
       78,536
 
6.0%
               
Tier 1 Leverage (3)
             
Actual
 $  156,254
 
8.2%
 
 $  141,587
 
7.5%
For capital adequacy
       76,443
 
4.0%
 
       75,866
 
4.0%
To be well capitalized
       95,554
 
5.0%
 
       94,833
 
5.0%


 
Peoples
 
Peoples Bank
(Dollars in thousands)
Amount
 
Ratio
 
Amount
 
Ratio
2007
             
Total Capital (1)
             
Actual
 $  172,117
 
13.2%
 
 $  148,355
 
11.5%
For capital adequacy
     104,043
 
8.0%
 
     103,509
 
8.0%
To be well capitalized
     130,054
 
10.0%
 
     129,386
 
10.0%
               
Tier 1 (2)
             
Actual
 $  154,933
 
11.9%
 
 $  132,637
 
10.3%
For capital adequacy
       52,022
 
4.0%
 
       51,755
 
4.0%
To be well capitalized
       78,032
 
6.0%
 
       77,632
 
6.0%
               
Tier 1 Leverage (3)
             
Actual
 $  154,933
 
8.5%
 
 $  132,637
 
7.3%
For capital adequacy
       73,062
 
4.0%
 
       72,699
 
4.0%
To be well capitalized
       91,328
 
5.0%
 
       90,873
 
5.0%
(1) Ratio represents total capital to net risk-weighted assets
       
(2) Ratio represents Tier 1 capital to net risk-weighted assets
       
(3) Ratio represents Tier 1 capital to average assets
       

As more fully disclosed in Note 11, on January 30, 2009, Peoples received $39.0 million of new equity capital from the sale of Series A Preferred Shares and the Warrant to U.S. Treasury as part of the TARP Capital Purchase Program.  All of the proceeds from the sale of the Series A Preferred Shares and the Warrant will qualify as Tier 1 capital for regulatory purposes.
 
Limits on Dividends
The primary source of funds for the dividends paid by Peoples is dividends received from Peoples Bank.  The payment of dividends by Peoples Bank is subject to various banking regulations.  The most restrictive provision requires regulatory approval if dividends declared in any calendar year exceed the total net profits of that year plus the retained net profits of the preceding two years.  At December 31, 2008, Peoples Bank had approximately $3.9 million of net profits available for distribution to Peoples as dividends without regulatory approval.
 
Federal Reserve Requirements
Peoples Bank is required to maintain a minimum level of reserves, consisting of cash on hand and non-interest-bearing balances with the Federal Reserve Bank, based on the amount of deposit liabilities.  Average required reserve balances were approximately $4.9 million and $4.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2008 and 2007.
 

 
Note 17. Stock–Based Compensation 


Under the Peoples Bancorp Inc. 2006 Equity Plan (the “2006 Equity Plan”) approved by shareholders, Peoples may grant, among other awards, nonqualified stock options, incentive stock options, restricted stock awards, stock appreciation rights or any combination thereof covering up to 500,000 common shares to employees and non-employee directors.  Prior to 2007, Peoples granted nonqualified and incentive stock options to employees and nonqualified stock options to non-employee directors under the 2006 Equity Plan and predecessor plans.  Since February 2007, Peoples has granted a combination of restricted common shares and stock appreciation rights (“SARs”) to be settled in common shares to employees and restricted common shares to non-employee directors subject to the terms and conditions prescribed by the 2006 Equity Plan.  In general, common shares issued in connection with stock-based awards are issued from treasury shares to the extent available.  If no treasury shares are available, common shares are issued from authorized but unissued common shares.
 
Stock Options
Under the provisions of the 2006 Equity Plan and predecessor stock option plans, the exercise price per share of any stock option granted may not be less than the fair market value of the underlying common shares on the date of grant of the stock option.  The most recent stock options granted to employees and non-employee directors occurred in 2006.  The stock options granted to employees will vest three years from the grant date, while the stock options granted to non-employee directors vested six months from the grant date.  All stock options granted to both employees and non-employee directors expire ten years from the date of grant.
 
The following summarizes the changes to Peoples’ stock options for the year ended December 31, 2008:

 
Number of Shares
Weighted- Average
Exercise
Price
Weighted-
 Average Remaining Contractual
Life
Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Outstanding at January 1
     325,461
 
 $        22.74
       
Granted
              –
 
                –
       
Exercised
       13,064
 
           17.36
       
Forfeited
         7,950
 
           24.98
       
    Outstanding at December 31
304,447
 
22.91
 
4.2 years
 
 $ 367,000
               
    Exercisable at December 31
261,909
 
22.01
 
3.7 years
 
 $ 367,000
 
The weighted-average estimated fair value of options granted in 2006 was $7.37.  The total intrinsic value of stock options exercised was $61,000, $0.6 million and $1.4 million in 2008, 2007 and 2006, respectively.
 
The following summarizes information concerning Peoples’ stock options outstanding at December 31, 2008:
     
Options Outstanding
 
Options Exercisable
Range of Exercise Prices
Option Shares
Outstanding
Weighted-
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Life
Weighted-
Average
Exercise Price
Option Shares
Exercisable
Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price
$13.48
to
$15.45
                   71,112
 
0.8 years
 
 $             14.20
 
               71,112
 
 $       14.20
$15.45
to
$22.32
                   62,672
 
4.0 years
 
                21.71
 
               62,672
 
          21.71
$22.33
to
$26.01
                   56,953
 
4.1 years
 
                24.39
 
               56,953
 
          24.39
$26.01
to
$28.25
                   73,176
 
6.4 years
 
                27.88
 
               36,638
 
          27.50
$28.25
to
$30.00
                   40,534
 
6.3 years
 
                29.03
 
               34,534
 
          28.91
    Total
   
               304,447
 
4.2 years
 
 $           22.91
 
           261,909
 
 $     22.01

Stock Appreciation Rights
 SARs granted to employees have an exercise price equal to the fair market value of Peoples’ common shares on the date of grant and will be settled using common shares of Peoples.  Additionally, the SARs granted will vest three years from the grant date and expire ten years from the date of grant.  The following summarizes the changes to Peoples’ SARs for the year ended December 31, 2008:

 
Number
of Shares
Weighted-Average Exercise
Price
Weighted- Average Remaining Contractual
Life
Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Outstanding at January 1
     30,374
 
 $     27.96
       
Granted
     28,170
 
        23.85
       
Exercised
              –
 
            –
       
Forfeited
       1,111
 
        29.25
       
    Outstanding at December 31
    57,433
 
 $   25.92
 
8.7 years
 
 $              –
    Exercisable at December 31
              –
 
 $           –
 
                 –
 
 $              –

The weighted-average estimated fair value of the SARs granted in 2008 and 2007 was $5.46 and $7.73, respectively. The following summarizes information concerning Peoples’ SARs outstanding at December 31, 2008:


Exercise Prices
Number of
Shares
Outstanding
Weighted-
Average
Remaining Contractural
Life
Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price
Number of
Shares Exercisable
$23.26
   
              5,000
 
8.6 years
 
 $         23.26
 
                  –
$23.77
   
            26,170
 
9.1 years
 
            23.77
 
                  –
$23.80
to
$27.99
              6,000
 
9.0 years
 
            26.26
 
                  –
$29.25
   
            20,263
 
8.1 years
 
            29.25
 
                  –
    Total
   
          57,433
 
8.7 years
 
 $       25.92
 
                  –

Restricted Shares
         Under the 2006 Equity Plan, Peoples may award restricted common shares to officers, key employees and non-employee directors.  In general, the restrictions on common shares awarded to non-employee directors expire after six months, while the restrictions on common shares awarded to employees expire after three years.  The following summarizes the changes to Peoples’ restricted common shares for year ended December 31, 2008:

     
Weighted-
     
Average
 
Number
 
Grant Date
 
of Shares
 
Fair Value
Outstanding at January 1
       9,148
 
 $         28.49
Awarded
     14,069
 
            23.72
Released
       7,475
 
            24.47
Forfeited
          164
 
            29.25
Outstanding at December 31
    15,578
 
 $       26.10

The total intrinsic value of restricted stock released was $158,000 and $220,000 in 2008 and 2007, respectively.

Stock-Based Compensation
        Peoples recognized stock-based compensation expense, which is included as a component of Peoples’ salaries and employee benefits costs, based on the estimated fair value of the awards on the grant date.  The following summarizes the amount of stock-based compensation expense and related tax benefit recognized for the years ended December 31:

(Dollars in thousands)
2008
 
2007
 
2006
Total stock-based compensation
 $     498,000
 
 $     391,000
 
 $     280,000
Recognized tax benefit
      (174,000)
 
      (137,000)
 
        (98,000)
    Net expense recognized
 $  324,000
 
 $  254,000
 
 $  182,000

The estimated fair value of stock options and SARs was calculated at grant date using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following weighted-average assumptions:
 
   
2008
 
2007
 
2006
Risk-free interest rate
 
4.38%
 
4.82%
 
4.56%
Dividend yield
 
3.88%
 
3.05%
 
2.65%
Volatility factor of the market price of parent stock
 
26.3%
 
25.5%
 
25.8%
Weighted-average expected life
 
10.0 years
 
10.0 years
 
6.4 years

The Black-Scholes option valuation model was originally developed for use in estimating the fair value of traded options, which have different characteristics than equity awards granted by Peoples, such as no vesting or transfer restrictions.  The model requires the input of highly subjective assumptions, including the expected stock price volatility, which can materially affect the fair value estimate.  The expected volatility and expected life assumptions were based solely on historical data.  The expected dividend yield is computed based on the then current dividend rate, and the risk-free interest rate is based on U.S. Treasury zero-coupon issues with a remaining term approximating the expected life of the equity awards.
 
 
Total unrecognized stock-based compensation expense related to unvested awards was $213,000 at December 31, 2008, which will be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.6 years.
 

 
Note 18. Parent Company Only Financial Information 


Condensed Balance Sheets
December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)
2008
 
2007
Assets:
     
Cash and due from other banks
 $       2,209
 
 $       2,111
Interest-bearing deposits in subsidiary bank
          3,776
 
        12,437
Receivable from subsidiary bank
             423
 
             651
Available-for-sale investment securities, at estimated fair value (amortized
     
  cost of $1,405 and $1,386 at December 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively)
          2,940
 
          4,744
Investments in subsidiaries:
     
  Bank
      179,193
 
      186,840
  Non-bank
        28,025
 
        26,988
Other assets
          1,305
 
             825
    Total assets
 $217,871
 
 $234,596
       
Liabilities:
     
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
 $       5,872
 
 $       7,012
Dividends payable
          2,398
 
          2,288
Junior subordinated debentures held by subsidiary trusts
        22,975
 
        22,460
    Total liabilities
        31,245
 
        31,760
       
Stockholders' equity
      186,626
 
      202,836
    Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
 $217,871
 
 $234,596
 
 
Condensed Statements of Income
Year Ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)
2008
 
2007
 
2006
Income:
         
Dividends from subsidiary bank
 $     2,000
 
 $   28,000
 
 $   21,750
Dividends from non-bank subsidiary
                -
 
        1,000
 
        2,300
Interest
           361
 
           392
 
           598
Other income
                -
 
                -
 
               1
    Total income
        2,361
 
      29,392
 
      24,649
           
Expenses:
         
Interest expense on junior subordinated notes held by subsidiary trusts
        2,011
 
        2,223
 
        2,689
Intercompany management fees
           821
 
           938
 
           875
Interest
                -
 
                -
 
           691
Other expense
        1,380
 
        1,374
 
        1,488
    Total expenses
        4,212
 
        4,535
 
        5,743
           
(Loss) income before federal income taxes and (excess dividends from) equity
         
  in undistributed earnings of subsidiaries
       (1,851)
 
      24,857
 
      18,906
Applicable income tax benefit
       (1,798)
 
       (2,345)
 
       (2,160)
Equity in (excess dividends from) undistributed earnings of subsidiaries
        7,508
 
       (8,888)
 
           492
    Net income
 $    7,455
 
 $ 18,314
 
 $ 21,558
 

Statements of Cash Flows
Year Ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)
2008
 
2007
 
2006
Operating activities
         
Net income
 $     7,455
 
 $   18,314
 
 $   21,558
Adjustment to reconcile net income to cash provided by operations:
         
  Amortization and depreciation
               –
 
               2
 
             12
  (Equity in) excess dividends from undistributed earnings of subsidiaries
       (7,508)
 
        8,888
 
          (492)
  Other, net
             59
 
        1,313
 
          (610)
    Net cash provided by operating activities
               6
 
      28,517
 
      20,468
           
Investing activities
         
Net (purchases of) proceeds from sales and maturity investment securities
            (45)
 
          (224)
 
           100
Change in receivable from subsidiary
           228
 
            (51)
 
          (298)
Acquisitions, net of cash received
               –
 
       (1,070)
 
       (1,453)
    Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities
           183
 
       (1,345)
 
       (1,651)
           
Financing activities
         
Payments on long-term borrowings
               –
 
               –
 
     (13,600)
Purchase of treasury stock
          (506)
 
     (12,350)
 
       (1,214)
Proceeds from issuance of common stock
           210
 
           989
 
        2,719
Repurchase of Trust Preferred Securities
               –
 
               –
 
            (25)
Redemption of Trust Preferred Securities
               –
 
       (7,000)
 
               –
Cash dividends paid
       (8,423)
 
       (8,375)
 
       (8,164)
Excess tax (expense) benefit for share based payments
            (33)
 
           148
 
               –
    Net cash used in financing activities
       (8,752)
 
     (26,588)
 
     (20,284)
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents
       (8,563)
 
           584
 
       (1,467)
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of year
      14,548
 
      13,964
 
      15,431
    Cash and cash equivalents at the end of year
 $    5,985
 
 $ 14,548
 
 $ 13,964
           
Supplemental cash flow information:
         
Interest paid
 $     1,980
 
 $     2,302
 
 $     3,322
 
Note 19. Summarized Quarterly Information (Unaudited) 

      A summary of selected quarterly financial information for 2008 and 2007 follows:
 
2008
 
First
 
Second
 
Third
 
Fourth
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
Quarter
 
Quarter
 
Quarter
 
Quarter
Total interest income
 $     27,299
 
 $     26,548
 
 $     26,063
 
 $     26,317
Total interest expense
        13,013
 
        11,674
 
        11,461
 
        11,600
Net interest income
        14,286
 
        14,874
 
        14,602
 
        14,717
Provision for loan losses
          1,437
 
          6,765
 
          5,996
 
        13,442
Net gain (loss) on investment securities
             293
 
           (308)
 
           (111)
 
        (2,466)
Other income
          8,234
 
          7,886
 
          8,142
 
          8,591
Intangible asset amortization
             415
 
             403
 
             390
 
             378
Other expenses
        13,327
 
        12,641
 
        12,803
 
        13,128
Income tax expense (benefit)
          1,986
 
             690
 
             493
 
        (3,009)
Net income
 $       5,648
 
 $       1,953
 
 $       2,951
 
 $     (3,097)
Earnings per share:
             
   Basic
 $         0.55
 
 $         0.19
 
 $         0.29
 
 $       (0.30)
   Diluted
 $         0.55
 
 $         0.19
 
 $         0.28
 
 $       (0.30)
Weighted-average shares outstanding:
             
   Basic
 10,302,713
 
 10,304,666
 
 10,319,534
 
 10,333,888
   Diluted
 10,345,180
 
 10,352,135
 
 10,354,522
 
 10,359,491

    Included in net gain (loss) on investment securities are other-than-temporary non-cash impairment charges of approximately $4.0 million and $260,000 during the fourth and second quarters of 2008, respectively.


 
2007
 
First
 
Second
 
Third
 
Fourth
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
Quarter
 
Quarter
 
Quarter
 
Quarter
 Total interest income
 $     28,360
 
 $     28,080
 
 $     28,241
 
 $     28,738
Total interest expense
        14,839
 
        14,747
 
        15,089
 
        14,823
Net interest income
        13,521
 
        13,333
 
        13,152
 
        13,915
Provision for loan losses
             623
 
             847
 
             967
 
          1,522
Net gain (loss) on investment securities
               17
 
               21
 
           (613)
 
        (5,487)
Other income
          8,114
 
          7,954
 
          7,736
 
          7,622
Intangible asset amortization
             500
 
             489
 
             478
 
             467
Other expenses
        12,842
 
        12,661
 
        12,121
 
        11,894
Income tax expense (benefit)
          2,041
 
          1,962
 
          1,594
 
             (37)
Net income
 $       5,646
 
 $       5,349
 
 $       5,115
 
 $       2,204
Earnings per share:
             
   Basic
 $         0.53
 
 $         0.51
 
 $         0.49
 
 $         0.21
   Diluted
 $         0.53
 
 $         0.51
 
 $         0.49
 
 $         0.21
Weighted-average shares outstanding:
             
   Basic
 10,584,893
 
 10,503,952
 
 10,421,548
 
 10,344,437
   Diluted
 10,670,148
 
 10,574,250
 
 10,483,657
 
 10,398,806
 
    Included in net gain (loss) on investment securities are other-than-temporary non-cash impairment charges of approximately $5.5 million in the fourth quarter and $675,000 in the third quarter.

PART III

ITEM 10.  DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

    The information concerning (a) directors of Peoples Bancorp Inc. (“Peoples”), (b) the procedures by which shareholders of Peoples may recommend nominees to Peoples’ Board of Directors, (c) the Audit Committee of Peoples’ Board of Directors and (d) the Board of Directors’ determination that Peoples has an “audit committee financial expert” serving on its Audit Committee required by Items 401, 407(c)(3), 407(d)(4) and 407(d)(5) of SEC Regulation S-K is included in the sections captioned “PROPOSAL NUMBER 1: ELECTION OF DIRECTORS”, “THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND COMMITTEES OF THE BOARD” and “NOMINATING PROCEDURES” of the definitive Proxy Statement of Peoples Bancorp Inc. relating to the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held April 23, 2009 (“Peoples’ Definitive Proxy Statement”), which sections are incorporated herein by reference.  The procedures by which shareholders of Peoples may recommend nominees to Peoples’ Board of Directors have not changed materially from those described in Peoples’ definitive Proxy Statement for the 2008 Annual Meeting of Shareholders held on April 10, 2008.

    The information regarding Peoples’ executive officers required by Item 401 of SEC Regulation S-K is included in the section captioned “EXECUTIVE OFFICERS” of Peoples’ Definitive Proxy Statement, which section is incorporated herein by reference.

    The information required by Item 405 of SEC Regulation S-K is included under the caption “SECTION 16(a) BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REPORTING COMPLIANCE” of Peoples’ Definitive Proxy Statement, which section is incorporated herein by reference.

    The Board of Directors of Peoples has adopted charters for each of the Audit Committee, the Compensation Committee and the Governance and Nominating Committee.

    In accordance with the requirements of Rule 4350(n) of The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC Marketplace Rules, the Board of Directors of Peoples has adopted a Code of Ethics covering the directors, officers and employees of Peoples and its affiliates, including, without limitation, the principal executive officer, the principal financial officer and principal accounting officer of Peoples.  Peoples intends to disclose the following events, if they occur, in a Current Report on Form 8-K and on the “Corporate Governance & Ethics” page of Peoples’ Internet website at www.peoplesbancorp.com within four business days following their occurrence:
(A)  
the date and nature of any amendment to a provision of Peoples’ Code of Ethics that
 
(i)  
applies to the principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller of Peoples, or persons performing similar functions,
 
(ii)  
relates to any element of the code of ethics definition set forth in Item 406(b) of SEC Regulation S-K, and
 
(iii)  
is not a technical, administrative or other non-substantive amendment; and
 
(B)  
a description (including the nature of the waiver, the name of the person to whom the waiver was granted and the date of the waiver) of any waiver, including an implicit waiver, from a provision of the Code of Ethics granted to the principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller of Peoples, or persons performing similar functions, that relates to one or more of the elements of the code of ethics definition set forth in Item 406(b) of SEC Regulation S-K.

    In addition, Peoples will disclose any waivers from the provisions of the Code of Ethics granted to a director or executive officer of Peoples in a Current Report on Form 8-K within four business days following their occurrence.

    Each of the Code of Ethics, the Audit Committee Charter, the Governance and Nominating Committee Charter and the Compensation Committee Charter is posted on the “Corporate Governance & Ethics” page of Peoples’ Internet website.  Interested persons may also obtain copies of the Code of Ethics without charge by writing to Peoples Bancorp Inc., Attention: Corporate Secretary, 138 Putnam Street, P.O. Box 738, Marietta, Ohio 45750-0738.


 
The information required by this Item 11 is included in the sections captioned “COMPENSATION COMMITTEE INTERLOCKS AND INSIDER PARTICIPATION”, “EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION: COMPENSATION DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS”, “ANNUAL CASH INCENTIVE COMPENSATION”, “LONG-TERM EQUITY-BASED INCENTIVE COMPENSATION”, “SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE FOR 2008”, “GRANTS OF PLAN-BASED AWARDS FOR 2008”, “OUTSTANDING EQUITY AWARDS AT FISCAL YEAR-END 2008”, “OPTION EXERCISES AND STOCK VESTED FOR 2008”, “PENSION BENEFITS FOR 2008”, “NON-QUALIFIED DEFERRED COMPENSATION FOR 2008” and “OTHER POTENTIAL POST EMPLOYMENT PAYMENTS” of Peoples’ Definitive Proxy Statement, which sections are incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 12.  SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

    The information required by this Item 12 regarding the security ownership of certain beneficial owners and management is included in the section captioned  “SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT” of Peoples’ Definitive Proxy Statement, which section is incorporated herein by reference.

Equity Compensation Plan Information
    The table below provides information as of December 31, 2008, with respect to compensation plans under which common shares of Peoples are authorized for issuance to directors, officers or employees in exchange for consideration in the form of goods or services.  These compensation plans include:
(i)  
the Peoples Bancorp Inc. Amended and Restated 1993 Stock Option Plan (the “1993 Plan”);
(ii)  
the Peoples Bancorp Inc. 1995 Stock Option Plan (the “1995 Plan”);
(iii)  
the Peoples Bancorp Inc. 1998 Stock Option Plan (the “1998 Plan”);
(iv)  
the Peoples Bancorp Inc. 2002 Stock Option Plan (the “2002 Plan”);
(v)  
the Peoples Bancorp Inc. Amended and Restated 2006 Equity Plan (the “2006 Plan”); and
(vi)  
the Peoples Bancorp Inc. Second Amended and Restated Deferred Compensation Plan for Directors of Peoples Bancorp Inc. and Subsidiaries (the “Deferred Compensation Plan”).

All of these compensation plans were approved by the shareholders of Peoples.

Plan Category
(a)
Number of common shares to be issued upon exercise of outstanding options, warrants and rights
(b)
Weighted-average exercise price of outstanding options, warrants and rights
(c)
Number of common shares remaining available for future issuance under equity compensation plans (excluding common shares reflected in column (a))
Equity compensation plans approved by shareholders
434,699(1)
$23.39(2)
405,005(3)
       
Equity compensation plans not approved by shareholders
Total
434,699
$23.39
405,005
(1)  
Includes an aggregate of 361,880 common shares issuable upon exercise of options granted under the 1993 Plan, the 1995 Plan, the 1998 Plan and the 2002 Plan and options and stock appreciation rights granted under the 2006 Plan and 72,819 common shares allocated to participants’ bookkeeping accounts under the Deferred Compensation Plan.
 
(2)  
Represents weighted-average exercise price of outstanding options granted under the 1993 Plan, the 1995 Plan, the 1998 Plan and the 2002 Plan and options and stock appreciation rights granted under the 2006 Plan.  The weighted-average exercise price does not take into account the common shares allocated to participants’ bookkeeping accounts under the Deferred Compensation Plan.
 
(3)  
Includes 395,055 common shares and 9,950 common shares remaining available for future grants under the 2006 Plan and future allocations to bookkeeping accounts under the Deferred Compensation Plan, respectively, at December 31, 2008.  No common shares were available for future grants under the 1993 Plan, the 1995 Plan, the 1998 Plan and the 2002 Plan at December 31, 2008.

    Additional information regarding Peoples’ stock-based compensation plans can be found in Note 17 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

    In addition, Peoples maintains the Peoples Bancorp Inc. Retirement Savings Plan, which is intended to meet the qualification requirements of Section 401(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

ITEM 13.  CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE

    The information required by this Item 13 is included in the sections captioned “TRANSACTIONS WITH RELATED PERSONS”, “PROPOSAL NUMBER 1: ELECTION OF DIRECTORS”, “THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND COMMITTEES OF THE BOARD” and “COMPENSATION COMMITTEE INTERLOCKS AND INSIDER PARTICIPATION” of Peoples’ Definitive Proxy Statement, which sections are incorporated by reference.

ITEM 14.  PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

    The information required by this Item 14 is included in the section captioned “INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM” of Peoples’ Definitive Proxy Statement, which section is incorporated herein by reference.
 
 
PART IV

ITEM 15.  EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

(a)(1)Financial Statements:
The following consolidated financial statements of Peoples Bancorp Inc. and subsidiaries are included in Item 8:
 
Page
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (Ernst & Young LLP) on Effectiveness of
 
    Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
51
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (Ernst & Young LLP) on Consolidated
 
    Financial Statements
52
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2008 and 2007
53
Consolidated Statements of Income for each of the three years ended December 31, 2008
54
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity for each of the three years ended December 31, 2008
55
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for each of the three years ended December 31, 2008
56
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
57
Peoples Bancorp Inc. (Parent Company Only Financial Information is included in Note 18 of the
 
    Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements)
85

(a)(2)Financial Statement Schedules
All schedules for which provision is made in the applicable accounting regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission are not required under the related instructions or are inapplicable and, therefore, have been omitted.

(a)(3)Exhibits
Exhibits filed with this Annual Report on Form 10-K are attached hereto or incorporated herein by reference.  For a list of such exhibits, see “Exhibit Index” beginning at page 93 The Exhibit Index specifically identifies each management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement required to be filed as an exhibit to this Form 10-K.

(b)    Exhibits
Exhibits filed with this Annual Report on Form 10-K are attached hereto or incorporated herein by reference.  For a list of such exhibits, see “Exhibit Index” beginning at page 93.

(c)    Financial Statement Schedules
None.


SIGNATURES
      Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this Report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
 

     
PEOPLES BANCORP INC.
       
Date:  March 3, 2009
 
By:
/s/ MARK F. BRADLEY
     
Mark F. Bradley, President and
     
Chief Executive Officer
                                                                                                    
      Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this Report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Signatures
 
Title
 
Date
         
/s/ MARK F. BRADLEY
 
President, Chief Executive Officer and Director
 
03/03/2009
Mark F. Bradley
 
 
   
         
/s/ EDWARD G. SLOANE
 
Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and
 
03/03/2009
Edward G. Sloane
 
Treasurer (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)
   
         
/s/ CARL L. BAKER, JR.*
 
Director
 
03/03/2009
Carl L. Baker, Jr.
       
         
/s/ GEORGE W. BROUGHTON*
 
Director
 
03/03/2009
George W. Broughton
       
         
/s/ FRANK L. CHRISTY*
 
Director
 
03/03/2009
Frank L. Christy
       
         
/s/ WILFORD D. DIMIT*
 
Director
 
03/03/2009
Wilford D. Dimit
       
         
/s/ RICHARD FERGUSON*
 
Chairman of the Board and Director
 
03/03/2009
Richard Ferguson
       
         
/s/ DAVID L. MEAD*
 
Director
 
03/03/2009
David L. Mead
       
         
/s/ ROBERT W. PRICE*
 
Director
 
03/03/2009
Robert W. Price
       
         
/s/ THEODORE P. SAUBER*
 
Director
 
03/03/2009
Theodore P. Sauber
       
         
/s/ PAUL T. THEISEN*
 
Vice Chairman of the Board
 
03/03/2009
Paul T. Theisen
       
         
/s/ JOSEPH H. WESEL*
 
Director
 
03/03/2009
Joseph H. Wesel
       
         
/s/ THOMAS J. WOLF*
 
Director
 
03/03/2009
Thomas J. Wolf
       

*
The above-named directors of the Registrant sign this Annual Report on Form 10-K by Mark F. Bradley, their attorney-in-fact, pursuant to Powers of Attorney signed by the above-named directors, which Powers of Attorney are filed with this Annual Report on Form 10-K as exhibits, in the capacities indicated and on the 3rd day of March, 2009.
 
         By:
/s/ MARK F. BRADLEY 
  Mark F. Bradley
 
President and Chief Executive Officer

 
 
PEOPLES BANCORP INC. ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K
FOR FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2008
         
Exhibit
Number
 
 
Description
 
 
Exhibit Location
3.1(a)
 
Amended Articles of Incorporation of Peoples Bancorp Inc. (as filed with the Ohio Secretary of State on May 3, 1993).
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3(a) to the Registration Statement of Peoples Bancorp Inc. (“Peoples”) on Form 8-B filed July 20, 1993 (File No. 0-16772).
         
3.1(b)
 
Certificate of Amendment to the Amended Articles of Incorporation of Peoples Bancorp Inc. (as filed with the Ohio Secretary of State on April 22, 1994).
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3(a)(2) to Peoples' Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1997 (File No. 0-16772) (“Peoples’ 1997 Form 10-K”).
         
3.1(c)
 
Certificate of Amendment to the Amended Articles of Incorporation of Peoples Bancorp Inc. (as filed with the Ohio Secretary of State on April 9, 1996).
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3(a)(3) to Peoples' 1997 Form 10-K.
         
3.1(d)
 
Certificate of Amendment to the Amended Articles of Incorporation of Peoples Bancorp Inc. (as filed with the Ohio Secretary of State on April 23, 2003).
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3(a) to Peoples' Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2003 (File No. 0-16772)(“Peoples’ March 31, 2003 Form 10-Q”).
         
3.1(e)
 
Certificate of Amendment by Shareholders or Members to the Amended Articles of Incorporation of Peoples Bancorp Inc. (as filed with the Ohio Secretary of State on January 22, 2009)
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Peoples’ Current Report on Form 8-K dated January 22, 2009 and filed on January 23, 2009 (File No. 0-16772).
         
3.1(f)
 
Certificate of Amendment by Directors or Incorporators to Articles filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Ohio on January 28, 2009, evidencing adoption of amendments by the Board of Directors of Peoples Bancorp Inc. to Article FOURTH of Amended Articles of Incorporation to establish express terms of Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Shares, Series A, each without par value, of Peoples Bancorp Inc.
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Peoples’ Current Report on Form 8-K dated and filed on February 2, 2009 (File No. 0-16772) (“Peoples’ February 2, 2009 Form 8-K”).
         
3.1(g)
 
Amended Articles of Incorporation of Peoples Bancorp Inc. (reflecting amendments through January 28, 2009) [For SEC reporting compliance purposes only – not filed with Ohio Secretary of State].
 
Filed herewith.
         
3.2(a)
 
Code of Regulations of Peoples Bancorp Inc.
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3(b) to Peoples' Registration Statement on Form 8-B filed July 20, 1993 (File No. 0-16772).
         
3.2(b)
 
Certificate of Amendment to the Code of Regulations of Peoples Bancorp Inc. regarding adoption of amendments to Sections 1.03, 1.04, 1.05, 1.06, 1.08, 1.10, 2.03(C), 2.07, 2.08, 2.10 and 6.02 of the Code of Regulations of Peoples Bancorp Inc. by shareholders on April 10, 2003.
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3(c) to Peoples’ March 31, 2003 Form 10-Q.
 
93

 
EXHIBIT INDEX
 
 
PEOPLES BANCORP INC. ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K
FOR FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2008
         
         
3.2(c)
 
Certificate of Amendment to the Code of Regulations of Peoples Bancorp Inc. regarding adoption of amendments to Sections 3.01, 3.03, 3.04, 3.05, 3.06, 3.07, 3.08 and 3.11 of the Code of Regulations of Peoples Bancorp Inc. by shareholders on April 8, 2004.
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3(a) to Peoples' Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2004 (File No. 0-16772)(“Peoples’ March 31, 2004 Form 10-Q”).
         
3.2(d)
 
Certificate regarding adoption of amendments to Sections 2.06, 2.07, 3.01 and 3.04 of Peoples Bancorp Inc.’s Code of Regulations by the shareholders on April 13, 2006
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Peoples’ Current Report on Form 8-K dated and filed on April 14, 2006 (File No. 0-16772) (“Peoples’ April 14, 2006 Form 8-K”)
         
3.2(e)
 
Code of Regulations of Peoples Bancorp Inc. (reflecting amendments through April 13, 2006)
[For SEC reporting compliance purposes only]
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3(b) to Peoples’ Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2006 (File No. 0-16772)
         
4.1
 
Agreement to furnish instruments and agreements defining rights of holders of long-term debt.
 
Filed herewith.
         
4.2
 
Indenture, dated as of April 20, 1999, between Peoples Bancorp Inc. and Wilmington Trust Company, as Debenture Trustee, relating to Junior Subordinated Deferrable Interest Debentures.
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Registration Statement on Form S-4 (Registration No. 333-81251) filed on June 22, 1999 by Peoples Bancorp Inc. and PEBO Capital Trust I (“Peoples’ 1999 Form S-4”).
         
4.3
 
Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust of PEBO Capital Trust I, dated and effective as of April 20, 1999.
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.5 to Peoples’ 1999 Form S-4.
         
4.4
 
Series B Capital Securities Guarantee Agreement, dated as of September 23, 1999, between Peoples Bancorp Inc. and Wilmington Trust Company, as Guarantee Trustee, relating to Series B 8.62% Capital Securities.
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4 (i) to Peoples’ Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1999.  (File No. 0-16772)
         
4.5
 
Warrant to purchase 313,505 Shares of Common Stock (common shares) of Peoples Bancorp Inc., issued to the United States Department of the Treasury on January 30, 2009
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Peoples’ February 2, 2009 Form 8-K.
         
4.6
 
Letter Agreement, dated January 30, 2009, including Securities Purchase Agreement – Standard Terms attached thereto as Exhibit A, between Peoples Bancorp Inc. and the United States Department of the Treasury [Note: Annex A to Securities Purchase Agreement is not included therewith; filed as Exhibit 3.1 to Peoples’ February 2, 2009 Form 8-K and incorporated by reference at Exhibit 3.1(f) of this Annual Report on Form 10-K]
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Peoples’ February 2, 2009 Form 8-K.
 
94

 
 
EXHIBIT INDEX
 
 
PEOPLES BANCORP INC. ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K
FOR FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2008
         
         
10.1(a)
 
Peoples Bancorp Inc. Second Amended and Restated Deferred Compensation Plan for Directors of Peoples Bancorp Inc. and Subsidiaries (Amended and Restated Effective December 11, 2008.)*
 
 Filed herewith.
         
10.1(b)
 
Rabbi Trust Agreement, made January 6, 1998, between Peoples Bancorp Inc. and The Peoples Banking and Trust Company (predecessor to Peoples Bank, National Association)*
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1(c) of Peoples’ Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2007 (File No. 0-16772) (“Peoples’ 2007 Form 10-K”).
         
10.2
 
Peoples Bancorp Inc, Amended and Restated Incentive Award Plan (Amended and Restated Effective December 11, 2008)*
 
 Filed herewith.
         
10.3
 
Amended and Restated Peoples Bancorp Inc. 1993 Stock Option Plan.*
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4 to Peoples' Registration Statement on Form S-8 filed August 25, 1993 (Registration Statement No. 33-67878).
         
10.4
 
Form of Stock Option Agreement used in connection with grant of non-qualified stock options under Amended and Restated Peoples Bancorp Inc. 1993 Stock Option Plan.*
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10(g) to Peoples' Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1995 (File No. 0-16772) (”Peoples’ 1995 Form 10-K”).
         
10.5
 
Form of Stock Option Agreement, dated May 20, 1993, used in connection with grant of incentive stock options under Amended and Restated Peoples Bancorp Inc. 1993 Stock Option Plan.*
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10(h) to Peoples' 1995 Form 10-K.
         
10.6
 
Form of Stock Option Agreement, dated November 10, 1994, used in connection with grant of incentive stock options under Peoples Bancorp Inc. Amended and Restated 1993 Stock Option Plan.*
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10(i) to Peoples' 1995 Form 10-K.
         
10.7
 
Peoples Bancorp Inc. 1995 Stock Option Plan.*
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4 to Peoples' Registration Statement on Form S-8 filed May 24, 1995 (Registration Statement No. 33-59569).
         
10.8
 
Form of Stock Option Agreement used in connection with grant of non-qualified stock options to non-employee directors of Peoples under Peoples Bancorp Inc. 1995 Stock Option Plan.*
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10(k) to Peoples' 1995 Form 10-K.
         
10.9
 
Form of Stock Option Agreement used in connection with grant of non-qualified stock options to non-employee directors of Peoples' subsidiaries under Peoples Bancorp Inc. 1995 Stock Option Plan.*
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10(l) to Peoples' 1995 Form 10-K.
         
*Management Compensation Plan
 
95

 
EXHIBIT INDEX
 
 
PEOPLES BANCORP INC. ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K
FOR FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2008
         
         
10.10
 
Form of Stock Option Agreement used in connection with grant of incentive stock options under Peoples Bancorp Inc. 1995 Stock Option Plan.*
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10(m) to Peoples' Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1998 (File No. 0-16772) (“Peoples’ 1998 Form 10-K”).
         
10.11
 
Peoples Bancorp Inc. 1998 Stock Option Plan.*
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10 to Peoples' Registration Statement on Form S-8 filed September 4, 1998 (Registration Statement No. 333-62935).
         
10.12
 
Form of Stock Option Agreement used in connection with grant of non-qualified stock options to non-employee directors of Peoples under Peoples Bancorp Inc. 1998 Stock Option Plan.*
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10(o) to Peoples' 1998 Form 10-K.
         
10.13
 
Form of Stock Option Agreement used in connection with grant of non-qualified stock options to consultants/advisors of Peoples under Peoples Bancorp Inc. 1998 Stock Option Plan.*
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10(p) to Peoples' 1998 Form 10-K.
         
10.14
 
Form of Stock Option Agreement used in connection with grant of incentive stock options under Peoples Bancorp Inc. 1998 Stock Option Plan.*
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10(o) to Peoples’ Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1999(File No. 0-16772).
         
10.15
 
Peoples Bancorp Inc. 2002 Stock Option Plan.*
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10 to Peoples' Registration Statement on Form S-8 filed April 15, 2002 (Registration Statement No. 333-86246).
         
10.16
 
Form of Stock Option Agreement used in connection with grant of non-qualified stock options to directors of Peoples under Peoples Bancorp Inc. 2002 Stock Option Plan.*
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10(r) to Peoples’ Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2002 (File No. 0-16772)(“Peoples’ 2002 Form 10-K”).
         
10.17
 
Form of Stock Option Agreement used in connection with grant of non-qualified stock options to Peoples’ subsidiaries’ directors under Peoples Bancorp Inc. 2002 Stock Option Plan.*
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10(s) to Peoples’ 2002 Form 10-K.
         
10.18
 
Form of Stock Option Agreement used in connection with grant of non-qualified stock options to employees of Peoples under Peoples Bancorp Inc. 2002 Stock Option Plan.*
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10(t) to Peoples’ 2002 Form 10-K.
         
10.19
 
Form of Stock Option Agreement used in connection with grant of incentive stock options under Peoples Bancorp Inc. 2002 Stock Option Plan.*
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10(u) to Peoples’ 2002 Form 10-K.
         
*Management Compensation Plan
 
96

 
EXHIBIT INDEX
 
 
PEOPLES BANCORP INC. ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K
FOR FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2008
         
         
10.20
 
Amended and Restated Change in Control Agreement, between Peoples Bancorp Inc. and Mark F. Bradley (amended and restated effective December 11, 2008)*
 
Filed herewith.
         
10.21
 
Amended and Restated Change in Control Agreement, between Peoples Bancorp Inc. and Carol A. Schneeberger (amended and restated effective December 11, 2008)*
 
Filed herewith.
         
10.22
 
Amended and Restated Change in Control Agreement between Peoples Bancorp Inc. and David T. Wesel (amended and restated effective December 11, 2008)*
 
Filed herewith.
         
10.23
 
Amended and Restated Change in Control Agreement between Peoples Bancorp Inc. and Deborah K. Hill (amended and restated effective December 11, 2008)*
 
 Filed herewith.
         
10.24
 
Amended and Restated Change in Control Agreement between Peoples Bancorp Inc. and Joseph S. Yazombek (amended and restated effective December 11, 2008)*
 
 Filed herewith.
         
10.25
 
Summary of Perquisites for Executive Officers of Peoples Bancorp Inc.*
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.24 to Peoples’ Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2006 (File No. 0-16772) (“Peoples’ 2006 Form 10-K”).
         
10.26
 
Summary of Base Salaries for Executive Officers of Peoples Bancorp Inc.*
 
Filed herewith.
         
10.27
 
Summary of Cash Compensation for Directors of Peoples Bancorp Inc.
 
Filed herewith.
         
10.28
 
Peoples Bancorp Inc. Amended and Restated 2006 Equity Plan*
 
Filed herewith.
         
10.29
 
Form of Peoples Bancorp Inc. 2006 Equity Plan Nonqualified Stock Option Agreement used and to be used to evidence grant of nonqualified stock option to director of Peoples Bancorp Inc.*
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10(c) of Peoples’ Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2006 (File No. 0-16772).
         
10.30
 
Form of Peoples Bancorp Inc. 2006 Equity Plan Restricted Stock Agreement for employees used and to be used to evidence awards of restricted stock granted to employees of Peoples Bancorp Inc.*
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.29 of Peoples’ Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2006 (File No. 0-16722) (“Peoples’ 2006 Form 10-K”).
 
*Management Compensation Plan
 
97

 
EXHIBIT INDEX
 
 
PEOPLES BANCORP INC. ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K
FOR FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2008
         
         
10.31
 
Form of Peoples Bancorp Inc. 2006 Equity Plan Restricted Stock Agreement for directors used and to be used to evidence awards of restricted stock granted to directors of Peoples Bancorp Inc.*
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.30 of Peoples’ 2006 Form 10-K.
         
10.32
 
Form of Peoples Bancorp Inc. 2006 Equity Plan SAR Agreement for employees used and to be used to evidence awards of stock appreciation rights granted to employees of Peoples Bancorp Inc.
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.31 of Peoples’ 2006 Form 10-K.
         
10.33(a)
 
Letter Agreement between Peoples Bancorp Inc. and Mark F. Bradley, executed on behalf of Peoples Bancorp Inc. on January 23, 2009 and by Mark F. Bradley on January 23, 2009 and effective January 30, 2009 [Note: Appendix A to Letter Agreement is not included therewith; filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Peoples’ February 2, 2009 Form 8-K and incorporated by reference at Exhibit 4.6 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K]*
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2(a) to Peoples’ February 2, 2009 Form 8-K.
         
10.33(b)
 
Letter Agreement between Peoples Bancorp Inc. and Edward G. Sloane, executed on behalf of Peoples Bancorp Inc. on January 22, 2009 and by Edward G. Sloane on January 22, 2009 and effective January 30, 2009[Note: Appendix A to Letter Agreement is not included therewith; filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Peoples’ February 2, 2009 Form 8-K and incorporated by reference at Exhibit 4.6 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K]*
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2(b)to Peoples’ February 2, 2009 Form 8-K.
         
10.33(c)
 
Letter Agreement between Peoples Bancorp Inc. and Deborah K. Hill, executed on behalf of Peoples Bancorp Inc. on January 22, 2009 and by Deborah K. Hill on January 22, 2009 and effective January 30, 2009[Note: Appendix A to Letter Agreement is not included therewith; filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Peoples’ February 2, 2009 Form 8-K and incorporated by reference at Exhibit 4.6 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K]*
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2(c) to Peoples’ February 2, 2009 Form 8-K.
         
10.33(d)
 
Letter Agreement between Peoples Bancorp Inc. and Carol A. Schneeberger, executed on behalf of Peoples Bancorp Inc. on January 23, 2009 and by Carol A. Schneeberger on January 23, 2009 and effective January 30, 2009[Note: Appendix A to Letter Agreement is not included therewith; filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Peoples’ February 2, 2009 Form 8-K and incorporated by reference at Exhibit 4.6 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K]*
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2(d) to Peoples’ February 2, 2009 Form 8-K.
         
*Management Compensation Plan
 
 
EXHIBIT INDEX
 
 
PEOPLES BANCORP INC. ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K
FOR FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2008
         
         
10.33(e)
 
Letter Agreement between Peoples Bancorp Inc. and David T. Wesel, executed on behalf of Peoples Bancorp Inc. on January 23, 2009 and by David T. Wesel on January 25, 2009 and effective January 30, 2009[Note: Appendix A to Letter Agreement is not included therewith; filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Peoples’ February 2, 2009 Form 8-K and incorporated by reference at Exhibit 4.6 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K]*
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2(e) to Peoples’ February 2, 2009 Form 8-K.
         
10.33(f)
 
Letter Agreement between Peoples Bancorp Inc. and Joseph S. Yazombek, executed on behalf of Peoples Bancorp Inc. on January 23, 2009 and by Joseph S. Yazombek on January 23, 2009 and effective January 30, 2009[Note: Appendix A to Letter Agreement is not included therewith; filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Peoples’ February 2, 2009 Form 8-K and incorporated by reference at Exhibit 4.6 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K]*
 
 
Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2(f) to Peoples’ February 2, 2009 Form 8-K.
         
10.34
 
Amended and Restated Change in Control Agreement between Peoples Bancorp Inc. and Edward G. Sloane (amended and restated effective December 11, 2008)*
 
 
Filed herewith.
         
12
 
Statements of Computation of Ratios.
 
Filed herewith.
         
21
 
Subsidiaries of Peoples Bancorp Inc.
 
Filed herewith.
         
23
 
Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm - Ernst & Young LLP.
 
Filed herewith.
         
24
 
Powers of Attorney of Directors and Executive Officers of Peoples Bancorp Inc.
 
Filed herewith.
         
31(a)
 
Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certifications [President and Chief Executive Officer]
 
Filed herewith.
         
31(b)
 
Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certifications[Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer]
 
Filed herewith.
         
32
 
Section 1350 Certifications
 
Filed herewith.
         
*Management Compensation Plan