Interagency Charter and Federal Deposit Insurance Applic

OMB No. for FDIC 3064-0001

Expiration Date: XXXXX, 2019

OMB No. for OCC 1557-0014

Expiration Date: 06/30/2018

INTERAGENCY CHARTER AND FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE APPLICATION

Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 250 hours per response (125 hours for the charter application and 125 hours for the insurance application), including the time to review instructions, search, and to review and complete the information collection. Send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information, including suggestions for reducing this burden to: Office of the Executive Secretary, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, 550 17th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20429; or Licensing Policy and Systems Division, Comptroller of the Currency, 250 E Street, S.W., Washington, DC 20219; and to the Office of Management and Budget, Paperwork Reduction Project, Washington, DC 20503.

An organization or a person is not required to respond to a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number.

GENERAL INFORMATION AND INSTRUCTIONS

Preparation and Use

This application is used to effect a transaction under:

• Sections 5 and 6 of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act (FDIA), as amended (12 U.S.C. 1815, 1816), for federal deposit insurance.

• Section 5(e) of the Home Owners’ Loan Act (HOLA), as amended (12 U.S.C. 1464(e)), for a federal savings association charter.

• The National Bank Act, as amended (12 U.S.C. 21 et seq.), for a national bank charter.

• The state law for applying for state depository charters, as approved by state regulatory authorities.

All questions must be answered with complete and accurate information that is subject to verification. If the answer is "none," "not applicable," or "unknown," so state. Answers of "unknown" should be explained.

The questions in the application are not intended to limit the Applicant's presentation nor are the questions intended to duplicate information supplied on another form or in an exhibit. For such information, a cross reference to the information is acceptable. Any such cross-reference must be made to a specific cite or location in the documents, so the information can be located easily. Supporting information for all relevant factors, setting forth the basis for Applicant's conclusions, should accompany the application. The regulatory agency may request additional information.

This application form collects information that the regulatory agencies will need to evaluate a charter or insurance application. While most of the information will be available when the organizers submit the application, some information will not be available at that time. Each agency has specific purposes and different timing requirements in collecting some of this information; for example, receipt of the organizers’ draft policies. For any question about when to submit a specific item, organizers should contact the appropriate regulatory agencies to discuss the specific timing for submission.

The regulatory agency must consider the applicable statutory requirements set forth in the preceding provisions, as well as applicable regulatory requirements, when acting on this application. For additional information regarding these statutory and regulatory requirements, as well as processing procedures and guidelines and any supplemental information that may be required, please refer to the appropriate regulatory agency's procedural guidelines [i.e., Comptroller’s Corporate Manual, the OCC’s rules and regulations (12 C.F.R. 5, 143), the FDIC's rules and regulations (12 C.F.R. 303, 309) and Statement of Policy on “Applications for Deposit Insurance”, or the application guidelines for the state in which the Applicant seeks a state charter]. The Applicant may contact the agency directly for specific instruction or visit their websites at www.fdic.gov, www.occ.treas.gov, and www.csbs.org (through “Links” to each state banking department).

Notice of Publication

The Applicant must publish notice of the proposed organization in a newspaper of general circulation in the community or communities in which the proposed financial institution will be located. Contact the appropriate regulatory agency for the specific requirements of the notice of publication.

Electronic Submission

In addition to an original application and the appropriate number of signed copies, the regulatory agencies would like to have an electronic copy of the information in the application, especially of the business plan’s financial projections. Submission of an electronic copy is voluntary. It will be used only for internal review and processing and will not be released to the public. The electronic copy may be provided on a computer diskette, using common word processing and spreadsheet software. For E-mail submissions, contact the appropriate regulatory agency for instructions and information about secure transmission of confidential material.

Confidentiality

Any Applicant desiring confidential treatment of specific portions of the application must submit a request in writing with the application. The request must discuss the justification for the requested treatment. The Applicant's reasons for requesting confidentiality should specifically demonstrate the harm (for example, loss of competitive position, invasion of privacy) that would result from public release of information (5 U.S.C. 552 or relevant state law). Information for which confidential treatment is requested should be: (1) specifically identified in the public portion of the application (by reference to the confidential section); (2) separately bound; and (3) labeled "Confidential." The Applicant should follow the same procedure when requesting confidential treatment for the subsequent filing of supplemental information to the application.

The Applicant should contact the appropriate regulatory agency for specific instructions regarding requests for confidential treatment. The appropriate regulatory agency will determine whether the information will be treated as confidential and will advise the Applicant of any decision to publicly release information labeled as "Confidential."

INTERAGENCY CHARTER AND FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE APPLICATION

(Check all appropriate boxes.)

Type of Charter Chartering Agency

National Bank Comptroller of the Currency

State Bank

Federal Savings Bank or Association State      

State Savings Association

Other      

Special Focus

Community Development

Cash Management Type of Insurance Application

Trust De Novo

Bankers’ Bank Operating Noninsured Institution

Credit Card: CEBA Non-CEBA Other      

Other      

Federal Reserve Status

For OCC: Standard Expedited Member Bank

Nonmember Bank

Proposed Depository Institution (institution)

     
Name
     
Street
     		     		     
City		State		ZIP Code

Holding Company Identifying Information (if applicable)

     
Name
     
Street
     		     		     
City		State		ZIP Code

Contact Person

     
Name
     
Street
     		     		     
City		State		ZIP Code

INTERAGENCY CHARTER AND FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE APPLICATION

1. Overview

(a) Provide a brief overview of the application. The overview should describe the institution’s business and any special market niche, including the products, market, services, and any nontraditional activities.

     

(b) Describe any issues about the permissibility of the proposal with regard to applicable state or federal laws or regulations. Identify any regulatory waiver requests and provide adequate justification.

     

(c) List and provide a copy of all applications filed in conjunction with this proposal, such as applications for holding company, trust powers, branch offices, service corporations, and other subsidiaries.

     

(d) When available, provide a copy of all public or private offering materials and the proposed form of stock certificate, including any required restrictive legends.

     

(e) Provide a copy of the proposed articles of association, articles of incorporation, or charter, and proposed bylaws.

     

(f) Provide a copy of the business plan. The business plan should address, at a minimum, the topics contained in the appropriate regulatory agency’s Business Plan Guidelines.      

2. Management

1. Provide a list of the organizers, proposed directors, senior executive officers, and any individual, or group of proposed shareholders acting in concert, that will own or control 10 percent or more of the institution’s stock. For each person listed, attach an Interagency Biographical and Financial Report, a fingerprint card, and indicate all positions and offices currently held or to be held with the institution’s holding company and its affiliates, if applicable. Include the signed “Oath of Director” for each proposed director. For an FSA filing, provide a RB 20a Certification for each person listed.

     

2. Describe each proposed director’s qualifications and experience to serve and oversee management’s implementation of the business plan. Describe the extent, if any, to which directors or major stockholders are or will be involved in the day-to-day management of the institution. Also list the forms of compensation, if any.

     

3. Provide a list of board committees and members.

     

4. Describe any plans to provide ongoing director education or training.

     

5. Describe each proposed senior executive officer’s duties and responsibilities and qualifications and experience to serve in his/her position. If a person has not yet been selected for a key position, list the criteria that will be required in the selection process. Discuss the proposed terms of employment, including compensation and benefits, and attach a copy of all pertinent documents, including an employment contract or compensation arrangement. Provide the aggregate compensation of all officers.

     

6. Describe any potential management interlocking relationships (12 U.S.C. 1467a(h)(2), 3201-3208, or applicable state law) that could occur with the establishment or ownership of the institution. Include a discussion of the permissibility of the interlock with regard to relevant law and regulations or include a request for an exemption.

     

7. Describe any potential conflicts of interest.

     

8. Describe any transaction, contract, professional fees, or any other type of business relationship involving the institution, the holding company, and its affiliates (if applicable), and any organizer, director, senior executive officer, shareholder owning or controlling 10 percent or more, and other insiders. Include professional services or goods with respect to organizational expenses and bank premises and fixed asset transactions. (Transactions between affiliates of the holding company that do not involve the institution need not be described.)

     

1) State whether the business relationship is made in the ordinary course of business, is made on substantially the same terms as those prevailing at the time for comparable transactions with non-insiders, and does not present more than the normal risk of such transaction or present other unfavorable features.

     

2) Specify those organizers that approved each transaction and whether the transaction was disclosed to proposed directors and prospective shareholders.

     

3) Provide all relevant documentation, including contracts, independent appraisals, market valuations, and comparisons.

     

9. Describe all stock benefit plans of the institution and holding company, including stock options, stock warrants, and other similar stock-based compensation plans, for senior executive officers, organizers, directors, and other insiders. Include in the description:

     

1) The duration limits.

     

2. The vesting requirements.

     

3) Transferability restrictions.

     

4) Exercise price requirements.

     

5) Rights upon termination.

     

6) Any “exercise or forfeiture” clause.

     

7) Number of shares to be issued or covered by the plans.

     

Provide a list of participants, allocation of benefits to each participant, and a copy of each proposed plan. (Plans must conform to applicable law, regulation and regulatory guidelines.)

3. Capital

(a) For each class of stock, provide the number of authorized shares, the number of shares to be issued, par value, voting rights, convertibility features, liquidation rights, and the projected sales price per share. Indicate the amount of net proceeds to be allocated to common stock, paid-in surplus, and other capital segregations.

     

(b) Describe any noncash contributions to capital, and provide supporting documents for assigned values, including an independent evaluation or appraisal.

     

(c) Discuss the adequacy of the proposed capital structure relative to internal and external risks, planned operational and financial assumptions, including technology, branching, and projected organization and operating expenses. Present a thorough justification to support the proposed capital, including any off-balance-sheet activities contemplated. Describe any plans for the payment of dividends.

     

(d) List all known subscribers to stock. For organizers, directors, 10 percent shareholders, senior executive officers, and other insiders, include the number of shares and anticipated investment and the amount of direct and indirect borrowings to finance the investment. Discuss how any debt will be serviced.

     

(e) List recipients and amounts of any fees, commissions, or other considerations in connection with the sale of stock.

     

(f) Indicate whether the institution plans to file for S Corporation tax status.

     

4. Convenience and Needs of the Community

NOTE: This information must be consistent with the proposed business plan.

(a) Market Characteristics

1) Define the intended geographical market area(s). Include a map of the market area, pinpointing the location of proposed bank’s offices and offices of competing depository institutions.

     

2) Describe the competitive factors the institution faces in the proposed market and how the institution will address the convenience and needs of that market to maintain its long-term viability.

     

3) Discuss the economic environment and the need for the institution in terms of population trends, income, and industry and housing patterns.

     

2. Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) Plan¹

NOTE: The CRA Plan must be bound separately.

1) Identify the assessment area(s) according to the CRA regulations.²

     

2) Summarize the performance context for the institution based on the factors discussed in the CRA regulations.³

     

3) Summarize the credit needs of the institution’s proposed assessment area(s).

     

4) Identify the CRA evaluation test⁴ under which the institution proposes to be assessed.

     

5) Discuss the institution’s programs, products, and activities that will help meet the existing or anticipated needs of its community(ies) under the applicable criteria of the CRA regulation, including the needs of low‑ and moderate‑income geographies and individuals.

     

5. Premises and Fixed Assets

1. Provide a physical description for permanent premises and discuss whether they will be publicly and handicapped accessible. Indicate the level and type of property insurance to be carried.

     

2. If the permanent premises are to be purchased, provide name of seller, purchase price, cost and description of necessary repairs and alterations, and annual depreciation. If the premises are to be constructed, provide the name of the seller, the cost of the land, and the construction costs. Indicate the percentage of the building that will be occupied by the bank. Provide a copy of the appraisal.

     

3. If the permanent premises are to be leased, provide name of owner, terms of the lease, and cost and description of leasehold improvements. Provide a copy of the proposed lease when available.

     

4. If temporary quarters are planned, provide a description of interim facility, length of use, lease terms, and other associated commitments and costs.

     

5. State whether proposed premises and fixed asset expenditures conform to applicable statutory limitations.

     

(f) Outline the security program that will be developed and implemented, including the security devices.⁵

     

(g) Discuss any significant effect the proposal will have on the quality of the human environment. Include in the discussion changes in air and/or water quality, noise levels, energy consumption, congestion of population, solid waste disposal, or environmental integrity of private land within the meaning of the National Environmental Policy Act, 42 U.S.C. 4321, et seq.

     

(h) Describe any plan to establish branches or relocate the main office within the first three years. Any acquisition or operating expenses should be reflected in the financial projections.

     

10. Indicate if the establishment of the proposed main office and/or any branch site may affect any district, site, building, structure, or object listed in, or eligible for listing in, the National Register of Historic Places pursuant to the National Historic Preservation Act, 54 U.S.C. 306108. (See the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation at www.achp.gov for the Act and implementing regulations.) Specify how such determination was made:

1) Consultation with the State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) and/or Tribal Historic Preservation Officer (THPO) (when tribal lands or historic properties of significance to a tribe are involved).

2) Reviewed National Register of Historic Places (see www.cr.nps.gov/nr).

3) Applied National Register criteria to unlisted properties.⁶

4) Reviewed historical records.

5) Contact with preservation organizations.

6) Other (describe).

As appropriate, provide a copy of any documentation of consultation with the SHPO and/or THPO. You are reminded that if a historic property may be affected, no site preparation, demolition, alterations, construction or renovation may occur without the appropriate regulatory agency’s authorization.

6. Information Systems

1. State whether the institution plans to market its products and services (the ability to do transactions or account maintenance) via electronic means. If yes, specifically state the products and services that will be offered via electronic banking or the Internet.

     

(b) Outline the proposed or existing information systems architecture and any proposed changes or upgrades. The information should describe how: (1) the information system will work within existing technology; (2) the information system is suitable to the type of business in which the institution will engage; (3) the security hardware, software, and procedures will be sufficient to protect the institution from unauthorized tampering or access; and (4) the organizers and directors will allocate sufficient resources to the entire technology plan.

     

(c) Provide lists or descriptions of the primary systems and flowcharts of the general processes related to the products and services. The level of detail in these system descriptions should be sufficient to enable verification of the cost projections in the pro formas.

     

(d) Estimate the start-up budget for the information systems related to the products and services and the expected annual operating and maintenance costs (including telecommunications, hardware, software, and personnel).

     

(e) Describe the physical and logical components of security. Describe the security system and discuss the technologies used and key elements for the security controls, internal controls, and audit procedures. Discuss the types of independent testing⁷ the institution will conduct to ensure the integrity of the system and its controls.

     

(f) Describe the information security program that will be in place to comply with the “Interagency Guidelines Establishing Standards for Safeguarding Customer Information.”⁸

     

7. Other Information

(a) List activities and functions, including data processing, that will be outsourced to third parties, identifying the parties and noting any affiliations. Describe all terms and conditions of the vendor management activities and provide a copy of the proposed agreement when available. Describe the due diligence conducted and the planned oversight and management program of the vendors’ or service providers’ relationships (for general vendor management guidance, see the Appendix of the FFIEC’s guidance, Risk Management of Outsourced Technology Services).

     

(b) List all planned expenses related to the organization of the institution and include the name of recipient, type of professional service or goods, and amount. Describe how organization expenses will be paid.

     

(c) Provide evidence that the institution will obtain sufficient fidelity coverage on its officers and employees to conform with generally accepted banking practices.

     

(d) If applicable, list names and addresses of all correspondent depository institutions that have been established or are planned.

     

(e) Provide a copy of management’s policies for loans, investments, liquidity, funds management, interest rate risk, and other relevant policies. Provide a copy of the Bank Secrecy Act program. Contact the appropriate regulatory agencies to discuss the specific timing for submission.

     

6. For Federal Savings Banks or Associations, include information addressing the proposed institution’s compliance with qualified thrift lender requirements.

     

(g) If the institution is, or will be, affiliated with a company engaged in insurance activities that are subject to supervision by a state insurance regulator, provide:

1) The name of insurance company.      

2) A description of the insurance activity that the company is engaged in and has plans to conduct.      

3) A list of each state and the lines of business in that state in which the company holds, or will hold, an insurance license. Indicate the state where the company holds a resident license or charter, as applicable.

     

OCC CERTIFICATION

We, the organizers, certify that the information contained in this application has been examined carefully and is true, correct, and complete, and is current as of the date of this submission. We also certify that any misrepresentations or omissions of material facts with respect to this application, any attachments to it, and any other documents or information provided in connection with the application for the organization of the proposed financial institution and federal deposit insurance may be grounds for denial or revocation of the charter and/or insurance, or grounds for an objection to the undersigned as proposed director(s) or officer(s) of the proposed financial institution, and may subject the undersigned to other legal sanctions, including the criminal sanctions provided for in 18 U.S.C. 1001, 1007, and 1014. We request that examiners be assigned to make any investigations necessary.

We acknowledge that approval of this application is in the discretion of the appropriate federal banking agency or agencies. Actions or communications, whether oral, written, or electronic, by an agency or its employees in connection with this filing, including approval of the application if granted, do not constitute a contract, either express or implied, or any other obligation binding upon the agency, other federal banking agencies, the United States, any other agency or entity of the United States, or any officer or employee of the United States. Such actions or communications will not affect the ability of any federal banking agency to exercise its supervisory, regulatory, or examination powers under applicable law and regulations. We further acknowledge that the foregoing may not be waived or modified by any employee or agent of a federal banking agency or of the United States.

Signature

Date

Typed Name

		     		     
		     		     
		     		     
		     		     
		     		     
		     		     
		     		     
		     		     
		     		     
		     		     

FDIC CERTIFICATION

We, the organizers, certify that the information contained in this application has been examined carefully and is true, correct, and complete, and is current as of the date of this submission. We also certify that any misrepresentations or omissions of material facts with respect to this application, any attachments to it, and any other documents or information provided in connection with the application for the organization of the proposed financial institution and federal deposit insurance may be grounds for denial or revocation of the charter and/or insurance, or grounds for an objection to the undersigned as proposed director(s) or officer(s) of the proposed financial institution, and may subject the undersigned to other legal sanctions, including the criminal sanctions provided for in 18 U.S.C. 1001, 1007, and 1014. We request that examiners be assigned to make any investigations necessary.

We acknowledge that approval of this application is in the discretion of the appropriate federal banking agency or agencies. Actions or communications, whether oral, written, or electronic, by an agency or its employees in connection with this filing, including approval of the application if granted, do not constitute a contract, either express or implied, or any other obligation binding upon the agency, other federal banking agencies, the United States, any other agency or entity of the United States, or any officer or employee of the United States. Such actions or communications will not affect the ability of any federal banking agency to exercise its supervisory, regulatory, or examination powers under applicable law and regulations. We further acknowledge that the foregoing may not be waived or modified by any employee or agent of a federal banking agency or of the United States.

It is understood that the Board of Directors of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (Corporation), in applying the factors set out in federal statutes, will consider the application only with respect to the general character or type of business stated and that the depository institution will not engage in any other business without the prior written consent of the Corporation.

It is further understood that federal deposit insurance will not become effective (a) until the proposed depository institution has been incorporated and authorized to engage in the business of receiving deposits, (b) until the board of directors of the depository institution has adopted a resolution ratifying and confirming the action of the incorporators in making this application with supporting information, (c) until the depository institution has fulfilled such requirements, if any, as the Corporation may impose as a condition of its approval of

this application, and (d) until the depository institution has been notified that its membership in the Corporation has been approved.

Signature

Date

Typed Name

		     		     
		     		     
		     		     
		     		     
		     		     
		     		     
		     		     
		     		     
		     		     
		     		     

EXHIBITS (check all that apply)

Business Plan

Financial Projections

CRA Plan

Articles of Association, Articles of Incorporation, or Charter

Bylaws

Oath of Director

Interagency Biographical and Financial Reports

Fingerprint cards (appropriate regulatory agency)

Publication Certification/Affidavit/Notice of Publication

Copies of contracts/agreements

Employment/compensation

Service providers

Other

Stock Benefit Plans

Economic survey or market feasibility study

Market Area Map

Waiver request, specify:      

Offering Materials

Proposed stock certificate

Corporate or holding company audited statements or financial reports

OCC/ state filing fee

Copy of policies, specify:      

FSA ONLY:

RB 20a Certification

Oath of the Bank Director

Bank Name      	Date      
State of      
County of            

I, the undersigned, a (proposed) director of the above-named bank do solemnly swear (affirm) that:

As a director, I have a legal responsibility and a fiduciary duty to shareholders to administer the depository institution’s affairs faithfully and to oversee its management. In carrying out my duties and responsibilities, I shall exercise reasonable care and place the interests of the depository institution before my own interests. I shall fulfill my duties of loyalty and care to the above-named depository institution.

I shall, commensurate with my duties, diligently and honestly administer the affairs of the depository institution, and I shall not knowingly violate, or willingly permit to be violated, any applicable statute or regulation. I shall ensure that I learn of changes in statutes, regulations, and policies of the Office of Comptroller of the Currency, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, or any state to whose jurisdiction my association is subject, which affect my duties, responsibilities, or obligations as a director and affiliated person of the association.

I am the owner, in good faith and in my own right, of the number of shares of stock that the law requires. I have either subscribed for this stock or it is issued and outstanding, and it is not hypothecated, or in any way pledged, as security for any loan or debt.

I shall attend meetings of the board of directors and participate fully on all committees of the board to which I am appointed.

Signature
Typed Name      
Mailing Address      
City      	State      	ZIP Code      

Notary’s Affirmation

Sworn to before me and subscribed in my presence, this day of , _________.

Notary Public

My Commission Expires _____________________________

Oath of Savings Association Director

Name of Savings Association		     
City	     	County.	     	State.	     

I, the undersigned, a [proposed] director of the above-named savings association, do solemnly swear (affirm) as follows:

1. I acknowledge that service as a director of a federally insured savings association is an important undertaking that carries with it significant duties and responsibilities. I have read and understand the OCC’s Directors’ Responsibilities Guide describing the duties of directors and officers of savings association.

2. As a director of the above-named savings association, I have a legal responsibility and a fiduciary duty to its shareholders and creditors and to the applicable federal deposit insurance funds to administer the savings association’s affairs faithfully and to oversee its management. In carrying out my duties and responsibilities, I shall exercise reasonable care and place the interests of the savings association before my own interests. I shall fulfill my duties of loyalty and care to the above-named savings association.

3. I shall diligently and honestly administer the affairs of the savings association, and I shall not knowingly violate, or willingly permit to be violated, any applicable statute or regulation. I shall ensure that I learn of changes in statutes, regulations, and policies of the Office of Comptroller of the Currency and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any state to whose jurisdiction my association is subject, which affect my duties, responsibilities, or obligations as a director and affiliated person of the savings association.

4. I shall attend meetings of the board of directors and participate fully on all committees of the board to which I am appointed.

Signature
Type Name		     
Mailing Address			     
City	     			State		ZIP Code
Date	     

Notary’s Affirmation

Sworn to before me and subscribed in my presence this ____ day of ___________, _______.

Notary Public ______________________________________________

My Commission Expires ______________________________________

Business Plan Guidelines

Preparation and Use

The business plan should be an integral part of the management and oversight of a financial institution (institution). It should establish the institution’s goals and objectives. It is a written summary of how the business will organize its resources to meet its goals and how the institution will measure progress.

The business plan should be a comprehensive plan, which is the result of in-depth planning by the institution’s organizers and management. It should realistically forecast market demand, customer base, competition, and economic conditions. The plan must reflect sound banking principles and demonstrate realistic assessment of risk in light of economic and competitive conditions in the market to be served. An institution with a special purpose or focus (for example, credit card, trust only, cash management, or bankers’ bank) should address this special or unique feature in detail in the appropriate sections of the plan.

The business plan should cover three years and provide detailed explanations of actions that are proposed to accomplish the primary functions of the institution. The description should provide enough detail to demonstrate that the institution has a reasonable chance for success, will operate in a safe and sound manner, and will have adequate capital to support the risk profile.

For any institution with an Internet or alternative electronic delivery channel, the plan should contain a clear and detailed definition of the market the institution plans to serve and the products and services it will provide through electronic channels. Because the Internet has a potential global market and can reach anyone with Internet access, the selected information on market area and products and services is essential. The marketing plan should explain how the institution would achieve brand recognition.

Confidentiality

Any Applicant desiring confidential treatment of specific portions of the plan and projections must submit the request in writing. The request must discuss the justification for the requested treatment. The Applicant’s reasons for requesting confidentiality should specifically demonstrate the harm (for example, loss of its competitive position, invasion of privacy) that would result from public release of information (5 U.S.C. 552 or relevant state law). Information for which confidential treatment is requested should be: (1) specifically identified in the public portion of the application (by reference to the confidential section); (2) separately bound; and (3) labeled "Confidential." The Applicant should follow the same procedure when requesting confidential treatment for the subsequent filing of supplemental information to the plan.

The Applicant should contact the appropriate regulatory agency for specific instructions regarding requests for confidential treatment. The appropriate regulatory agency will determine whether the information will be treated as confidential and will advise the Applicant of any decision to publicly release information labeled as "Confidential."

BUSINESS PLAN

I. Table of Contents

2. Executive Summary

Describe the highlights of the plan.

     

III. Description of Business

A. Describe the institution’s business and any special market niche, including the products, market, services, and nontraditional activities.

     

B. If in a holding company structure, discuss the operations of the organization, including a brief detail of the organizational structure and interaction between the institution and its affiliates.

     

C. Describe the extent, if any, that there are or will be transactions with affiliated entities or persons. Include terms.

     

D. Discuss the legal form and stock ownership of the institution and any investment in subsidiaries or service corporations.

     

E. For an operating company, describe the present financial condition and current resources, such as office network, staff, and customer base. Specifically discuss the strengths and weaknesses.

     

F. Describe the proposed location, office quarters, and any branch structure.

     

G. Discuss any growth or expansion plans, including additional branches, other offices, mergers, or acquisitions.      

IV. Marketing Plan

A marketing plan should provide in detail factual support that the institution has reasonable prospects to achieve the revenue projections, customer volume, and key marketing and income targets. The analysis should be based on the most current data available, and the sources of information should be referenced. This section should contain an in-depth discussion of the major planning assumptions for the market analysis, economic, and competitive components used to develop the plans, objectives, and the basis for the assumptions.

A. Product Strategy

1. List and describe the general terms of the planned products and services, including activities of any subsidiaries. Discuss any plans to engage in any subprime or speculative lending, including plans to originate loans with high loan-to-value ratios.      

2. Discuss how the institution will offer products and services over the three years, indicating any variation in the different market areas or distribution channels, and include the time frame for the introduction and the anticipated cost associated with each.

     

3. Describe the institution’s plans to engage in any secondary market/mortgage banking activity, including loan participations. Discuss plans to use forward take-out commitments or engage in loan securitization. Describe any plans to engage in hedging activity to mitigate the risks of this activity. Also, discuss plans to retain recourse and servicing.

     

4. Describe the primary sources of loans and deposits and the major methods to solicit them. If using brokers or agents, provide full details of the nature and extent of all such activities, including sources, amounts, fees, and any intended tie-in of compensatory arrangements with the broker or agent.

     

5) Describe any arrangements with e-commerce businesses (for example, links to another’s Web site to shop, order, or purchase goods and/or services online).

     

B. Market Analysis

1) Describe the intended target market and the geographical market area(s).

     

2) Describe the demographics of the target market population (for example, age, education, and occupation).

     

3) For a savings association filing, discuss in detail any current and/or proposed actions to accomplish the institution’s commitment to promote home financing.

     

C. Economic Component⁹

1) Describe the economic forecast for the three years of the plan. The plan should cover the most likely scenario and discuss possible economic downturns.

     

2) Indicate any national, regional, or local economic factors that may affect the operations of the institution. Include an analysis of any anticipated changes in the market, the factors influencing those changes, and the effect they will have on the institution.

     

3) Describe the current economic characteristics of the proposed market(s), for example, size, income, and industry and housing patterns.

     

4) Based on the economic characteristics described previously, discuss the economic factors that influence the products and services to be offered. A more in-depth discussion is warranted when different types of services are identified for different market areas in the Description of Business section.

     

D. Competitive Analysis

1) Compare and contrast the institution’s product strategy with its principal competitors in the target market(s). Include expected results in terms of relative strength, market share, and pricing.

     

2) Discuss the overall marketing/advertising strategy, including approaches to reach target market through the marketing of brand, products, and services. Outline the specific medium that will be used, including timing and level of advertising efforts.

     

3) Discuss potential competition in the target market(s).

     

V. Management Plan — Directors and Officers

A. Provide the number of organizers and/or directors. Provide a list of board committees and a brief explanation of the responsibilities of each committee.

     

B. Describe the organizational structure and provide an organizational chart, indicating the number of officers and employees. Describe the duties and responsibilities of the senior executive officers. Describe any management committees that are or will be established.

     

C. Discuss the institution’s plans to address management succession, including any management training program or other available resources.

     

VI. Records, Systems, and Controls

A. Describe the institution’s current and/or proposed accounting and internal control systems, indicating any use of electronic processing systems.

     

B. Describe management’s proposed internal audit function. The description should set forth the independence of the department and the scope and frequency of audits. Discuss the experience and education of the audit staff. If external auditors will be used for internal audits, provide similar information for the external auditors.

     

C. Describe the compliance management programs, addressing independence, scope, frequency, and staff qualifications. Discuss how the institution will respond to consumer complaints.

     

D. State plans for an annual audit by independent public accountants.

     

E. Discuss the functions that will be outsourced and what the institution will do in-house.

     

VII. Financial Management Plan

A. Capital and Earnings

     

1) Discuss the capital goals and the means to achieve them.

     

2) Discuss the earnings goals in terms of return on assets, net interest margin, or other profitability measurements, and summarize the strategies to achieve those goals.

     

3) Discuss the plan for raising capital and for financing growth, with particular emphasis on conformance with regulatory capital requirements.

     

4) Discuss the adequacy of the proposed capital structure relative to internal and external risks, planned operational and financial assumptions, including technology, branching, and projected organization and operating expenses. Present a thorough justification to support the proposed capital, including any off-balance-sheet activities contemplated.

     

5) Describe the debt service requirements for any debt that will be issued at the holding company level to capitalize the institution.

     

6) Discuss the use of options, warrants, and/or other benefits associated with the institution’s capital.

     

7) Summarize the dividend policy.

     

B. Liquidity and Funds Management

     

1) Discuss how the institution will identify and measure liquidity risk.

     

2) Discuss the institution’s plan to monitor and control its liquidity risk, including funding sources (deposits, borrowings, securitizations). Include holding company support, if any.

     

3) Describe any plans to borrow funds from any financial institutions or other sources, including the amount, composition, interest rate, maturity, purpose, and collateral.

     

4) Discuss the type of investment securities the institution plans to purchase.

     

C. Sensitivity to Market Risk

1) Discuss the institution’s objectives, strategies, and risk tolerance for interest rate risk.

     

2) Discuss how the institution will identify and measure interest rate risk.

     

3) Discuss the institution’s asset and liability portfolio in terms of sensitivity to interest rate changes and the impact of earnings and capital and net portfolio value. Discuss the risk limits to control interest rate risk.

     

4) Describe any plans to use hedging activities (for example, futures, options, interest rate swaps, or other derivative instruments).

     

D. Credit Risk

1) Discuss how the institution will identify and measure credit risk.

     

2) Describe the loan review program, addressing independence, scope, frequency, and staff qualifications.

     

3) Describe the methodology used to determine the allowance for loan and lease losses.

     

VIII. Monitoring and Revising the Plan

A. Describe how the board of directors will monitor adherence to the business plan.

     

B. Describe how the board of directors will adjust and amend the plan to accommodate significant or material economic changes.

     

IX. Alternative Business Strategy (Optional unless your regulator requires)

An alternative business strategy details how an institution will operate under scenarios in which market conditions differ significantly from those projected in this business plan. This alternative business strategy should be realistic about the business risks and incorporate sound management of such risks. This alternative strategy should consider potential adverse scenarios relating to the asset or liability mixes, interest rates, operating expenses, marketing costs, and growth rates. This discussion should include realistic plans for how the bank would access additional capital, if needed, in the future and, if applicable, contingency funding plans that address strategies for managing potential liquidity fluctuations. This plan also should discuss any financial safeguards to offset unexpected costs and remain well capitalized.

     

Periodically, the institution should update this section, especially as the institution becomes more complex and as industry conditions change.

     

X. Financial Projections

1. Provide financial information for opening day pro forma and quarterly projections for the three years of operations. Also provide annual totals for the Income Statement. The line items in the financial statements should be consistent with the Consolidated Reports of Condition and Income (Report)¹⁰ so that projected items may be compared conveniently with actual performance. The following reports should be used:

Projected Balance Sheet (Schedule RC)

Projected Income Statement (Schedule RI)

Regulatory Capital Schedule (Schedule RI-A)

The financial statements should be presented in two ways: (1) showing the dollar amounts, and (2) as a percentage of total assets.

1) Describe in detail all of the assumptions used to prepare the projected statements, including the assumed interest rate scenario for each interest earning asset and interest costing liability over the term of the business plan. Also present a thorough justification to support proposed capital, including any branch expansion and off-balance-sheet activities contemplated.

     

2) Provide the basis for the assumptions used for noninterest income and noninterest expense. Indicate the amount of lease expense, capital improvements, and furniture, fixtures, and equipment, including systems and equipment upgrades.

3) Describe the assumptions for the start-up costs, volumes, expected returns, and expected time frame to introduce each new product and service.

     

B. Discuss how the institution used marketing studies or surveys to support the institution’s projected growth.

     

C. Discuss the level of marketing expenses necessary to achieve the projected market share for both loan and deposit products. Assumptions should be consistent with those experienced by other institutions in the target market. Explain any significant variances between the assumptions in the target market.

     

D. Provide a sensitivity analysis of the financial projections. A sensitivity analysis provides a realistic stress test of the major underlying assumptions used in the business plan and the resultant financial projections. For example, adjust the financials to reflect the effects of adverse changes in the interest rate environment, changes in the asset/liability mix, higher than expected operating expenses, marketing costs, and/or growth rates.

     

CALL REPORT

FINANCIAL PROJECTIONS

BALANCE SHEET

Assets

Cash and balances due from depository institutions

Noninterest-bearing balances and currency and coin

Interest-bearing balances

Securities

Held-to-maturity securities

Available-for-sale securities

Federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell

Loans and lease financing receivables

Construction and land development loans secured by real estate

Secured by farmland

Revolving, open-end loans secured by 1-4 family residential

Other first lien loans secured by 1-4 family residential

Other junior lien loans secured by 1-4 family residential

Secured by multifamily residential properties

Secured by nonfarm nonresidential properties

Loans to depository institutions

Loans to finance agricultural production and other loans to farmers

Commercial and industrial loans

Acceptances of other banks

Credit card and related plans to individuals

Other loans to individuals for household, family and other personal expenditures

Obligations (other than securities and leases) of states and political subdivisions in the U.S.

All other loans (exclude consumer loans)

Lease financing receivables (net of unearned income)

Less:

Unearned income

Allowance for loan and lease losses

Total Loans and leases, net of unearned income and allowance

Other Assets

Trading assets

Premises and fixed assets

Other real estate owned

Investments in unconsolidated subsidiaries and associated companies

Customers’ liability to this bank on acceptances outstanding

Intangible assets

All other assets (describe)

Total Assets

CALL REPORT

FINANCIAL PROJECTIONS

BALANCE SHEET (Continued)

Liabilities

Transaction deposit accounts

Demand

NOW accounts, ATS accounts, and other interest bearing transaction accounts

Nontransaction Deposit Accounts

Money market deposit accounts (MMDAs)

Other savings deposits

Time deposits of $100,000 or more

Time deposits of less than $100,000

Other nontransaction accounts (describe)

Other Liabilities

Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase

Demand notes issued to the U.S. Treasury

Trading liabilities

Borrowed money with remaining maturity of one year or less

Borrowed money with remaining maturity of more than one year through three years

Borrowed money with remaining maturity of more than three years

Bank's liability on acceptances executed and outstanding

Subordinated notes and debentures

All other liabilities (describe)

Total Liabilities

Equity Capital

Common stock

Surplus

Undivided profits

Other equity capital (describe)

Total Equity

CALL REPORT

FINANCIAL PROJECTIONS

REGULATORY CAPITAL

Total Equity

Other Tier 1 Capital (describe)

Total Tier 1 Capital

Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses

Other Tier 2 Capital (describe)

Total Tier 1 and Tier 2 Capital

Total Assets

Total Risk Weighted Assets

Capital Ratios

Tier 1 Capital / Total Risk Weighted Assets

Total Tier 1 and Tier 2 Capital/Total Risk Weighted Assets

Tier 1 Capital /Total Assets

ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN AND LEASE LOSSES

Beginning balance

Current quarter's:

Recoveries

Provision for loan and lease losses

Less: Charge-offs

Allowance ending balance

FINANCIAL PROJECTIONS

INCOME STATEMENT

Interest Income

Real estate loans

Installment loans

Credit card loans

Commercial (time and demand) and all other loans

Lease financing receivables

Balances due from depository institutions

Taxable securities issued by states and political subdivisions in the U.S.

Tax-exempt securities issued by states and political subdivisions in the U.S.

U.S. Government and other debt securities

Equity securities

Interest income from trading assets

Federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell

Other interest income (describe)

Total Interest Income

Interest Expense

Transaction accounts (NOW accounts, ATS accounts, and other)

Money market deposit accounts

Other savings deposits

Time deposits of $100,000 or more

Time deposits of less than $100,000

Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase

Demand notes issued by the U.S. Treasury, trading liabilities, and other borrowed money

Subordinated notes and debentures

Other interest expense (describe)

Total Interest Income

Net Interest Income

Provision for Loan and Lease Losses

Noninterest income

Service charges on deposit accounts

Other fee income

All other noninterest income

Realized gains (losses) on held-to-maturity securities

Realized gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities

Noninterest expense

Salaries and employee benefit expense

Premises and fixed assets

Other noninterest expense

Income (loss) before income taxes and extraordinary items and other adjustments

Applicable income taxes

Extraordinary items and other adjustments, net of income taxes

Net Income (Loss)

Dividends

Other changes in capital (describe)

Ending Equity Capital

FINANCIAL PROJECTIONS

INTEREST INCOME & INTEREST EXPENSE ASSUMPTIONS
For each quarter Real estate loans Installment loans Credit card loans Commercial (time and demand) and all other loans Lease financing receivables Balances due from depository institutions Taxable securities issued by states and political subdivisions in the U.S. Tax-exempt securities issued by states and political subdivisions in the U.S. U.S. Government and other debt securities Equity securities Interest income from trading assets Federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell Other interest income	Average Balance	Interest Rate
For each quarter Transaction accounts (NOW accounts, ATS accounts, and other) Money market deposit accounts Other savings deposits Time deposits of $100,000 or more Time deposits of less than $100,000 Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase Demand notes issued by the U.S. Treasury, trading liabilities, and other borrowed money Subordinated notes and debentures Other interest expense	Average Balance	Interest Rate

1 See applicable state requirements.

2See 12 C.F.R. 25.41, 195.41, 345.41.

3 See 12 C.F.R. 25.21(b), 195.21(b), 345.21(b).

4 See 12 C.F.R. 25.21(a); 195.21(a), 345.21(a).

5 See 12 C.F.R. 21, 168, 326, 391 Subpart A.

6 See 36 C.F.R. 60.4.

7 Independent tests should cover general and environmental controls as well as audit, monitoring, and balancing controls. Independent testing will provide an objective opinion on the adequacy of these controls.

8 See 15 U.S.C. 6801, 6805(b); 12 C.F.R. 30, 168, 170, 364, 390 Subpart B.

9 If obtained, discuss any independent economic survey or market feasibility study.

10See FDIC’s website, http://www.fdic.gov/regulations/resources/call/crinst/callinst.html.