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Published: 2021-05-10 16:03:10 ET

clbk-20210331

UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

(Mark one)


☒			QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2021


☐			TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

Commission File Number 001-38456

Columbia Financial, Inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)


Delaware		22-3504946
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)		(I.R.S. Employer Identification Number)
19-01 Route 208 North,	Fair Lawn,
New Jersey		07140
(Address of principal executive offices)		(Zip Code)

(800) 522-4167

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:


Title of each class	Trading symbol(s)	Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, $0.01 par value per share	CLBK	The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports) and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

☒ Yes ☐ No

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files).

☒ Yes ☐ No

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer”, “smaller reporting company”, and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act:

Large accelerated filer

☒

Accelerated filer

☐

Smaller reporting company

☐

Non-accelerated filer

☐

Emerging growth company

☐

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

☐ Yes ☒ No

As of May 6, 2021, there were 108,610,755 shares issued and outstanding of the Registrant's common stock, par value $0.01 per share.

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Index to Form 10-Q


Item Number		Page Number

PART I.	Financial Information

Item 1.	Financial Statements
	Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition as of March 31, 2021 (Unaudited) and December 31, 2020	2
	Consolidated Statements of Income for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 (Unaudited)	3
	Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 (Unaudited)	4
	Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholder's Equity for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 (Unaudited)	5
	Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 (Unaudited)	6
	Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements	8

Item 2.	Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations	45
Item 3.	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk	51
Item 4.	Controls and Procedures	55

PART II.	Other Information
	Item 1. Legal Proceedings	56
	Item 1A. Risk Factors	56
	Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds	56
	Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities	56
	Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures	56
	Item 5. Other Information	56
	Item 6. Exhibits	56

	Exhibit Index	57

	SIGNATURES	58

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition

(In thousands, except share and per share data)


	March 31,		December 31,
	2021		2020
Assets	(Unaudited)

Cash and due from banks	$	359,532	$	422,787
Short-term investments	184		170
Total cash and cash equivalents	359,716		422,957

Debt securities available for sale, at fair value	1,474,246		1,316,952
Debt securities held to maturity, at amortized cost (fair value of $398,906 and $277,091 at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively)	391,264		262,720
Equity securities, at fair value	4,830		5,418
Federal Home Loan Bank stock	40,280		43,759
Loans held-for-sale, at fair value	—		4,146

Loans receivable	6,224,865		6,181,770
Less: allowance for loan losses	71,904		74,676
Loans receivable, net	6,152,961		6,107,094

Accrued interest receivable	28,670		29,456

Office properties and equipment, net	76,790		75,974
Bank-owned life insurance ("BOLI")	234,294		232,824
Goodwill and intangible assets	86,331		87,384
Other assets	190,549		209,852
Total assets	$	9,039,931	$	8,798,536

Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity
Liabilities:
Deposits	$	6,996,330	$	6,778,624
Borrowings	722,615		799,364
Advance payments by borrowers for taxes and insurance	33,102		32,570
Accrued expenses and other liabilities	288,235		176,691
Total liabilities	8,040,282		7,787,249

Stockholders' equity:
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value. 10,000,000 shares authorized; none issued and outstanding at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020	—		—
Common stock, $0.01 par value. 500,000,000 shares authorized; 122,037,793 shares issued and 108,977,571 shares outstanding at March 31, 2021 and 110,939,753 shares outstanding at December 31, 2020	1,220		1,220
Additional paid-in capital	611,549		609,531
Retained earnings	694,129		673,084
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(72,507)		(69,625)
Treasury stock, at cost; 13,060,222 shares at March 31, 2021 and 11,098,040 shares at December 31, 2020	(195,361)		(163,015)
Common stock held by the Employee Stock Ownership Plan	(38,734)		(39,293)
Stock held by Rabbi Trust	(2,141)		(1,875)
Deferred compensation obligations	1,494		1,260
Total stockholders' equity	999,649		1,011,287
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	$	9,039,931	$	8,798,536

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Statements of Income

(In thousands, except share and per share data)


	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2021		2020
Interest income:	(Unaudited)
Loans receivable	$	58,768	$	64,018
Debt securities available for sale and equity securities	6,378		7,328
Debt securities held to maturity	1,752		2,065
Federal funds and interest earning deposits	104		189
Federal Home Loan Bank stock dividends	635		1,090
Total interest income	67,637		74,690
Interest expense:
Deposits	8,875		16,832
Borrowings	2,022		7,156
Total interest expense	10,897		23,988

Net interest income	56,740		50,702

(Reversal of) provision for loan losses	(1,280)		9,568

Net interest income after (reversal of) provision for loan losses	58,020		41,134

Non-interest income:
Demand deposit account fees	838		1,299
Bank-owned life insurance	1,474		1,417
Title insurance fees	1,620		1,231
Loan fees and service charges	651		728
Gain on securities transactions	—		370
Change in fair value of equity securities	(588)		(584)
Gain on sale of loans	2,150		754
Other non-interest income	2,450		1,176
Total non-interest income	8,595		6,391

Non-interest expense:
Compensation and employee benefits	23,393		24,465
Occupancy	5,252		4,795
Federal deposit insurance premiums	580		110
Advertising	535		1,144
Professional fees	1,790		1,366
Data processing and software expenses	2,771		2,230
Merger-related expenses	—		1,075
Loss on extinguishment of debt	742		—
Other non-interest expense	2,640		3,323
Total non-interest expense	37,703		38,508

Income before income tax expense	28,912		9,017

Income tax expense	7,867		2,252

Net income	$	21,045	$	6,765

Earnings per share - basic and diluted	$	0.20	$	0.06
Weighted average shares outstanding -basic and diluted	105,977,621		108,438,173

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss)

(In thousands)


	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2021		2020
	(Unaudited)

Net income	$	21,045	$	6,765

Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax:
Unrealized (loss) gain on debt securities available for sale	(17,034)		19,267
Accretion of unrealized gain on debt securities reclassified as held to maturity	14		6
Reclassification adjustment for gain included in net income	—		289
	(17,020)		19,562

Derivatives, net of tax:
Unrealized gain (loss) on swap contracts accounted for as cash flow hedges	5,683		(11,349)
	5,683		(11,349)

Employee benefit plans, net of tax:
Amortization of prior service cost included in net income	(10)		33
Reclassification adjustment of actuarial net (loss) gain included in net income	(1,089)		2,084
Change in funded status of retirement obligations	9,554		(1,260)
	8,455		857

Total other comprehensive (loss) income	(2,882)		9,070

Total comprehensive income, net of tax	$	18,163	$	15,835

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity (Unaudited)

Three Months Ended March 31, 2021 and 2020

(In thousands)


	Common Stock		Additional Paid-in-Capital		Retained Earnings		Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss)		Treasury Stock		Common Stock Held by the Employee Stock Ownership Plan		Stock Held by Rabbi Trust		Deferred Compensation Obligations		Total Stockholders' Equity

Balance at December 31, 2019	$	1,173	$	531,667	$	615,481	$	(68,735)	$	(54,950)	$	(41,564)	$	(1,520)	$	965	$	982,517


Net income	—		—		6,765		—		—		—		—		—		6,765
Other comprehensive income	—		—		—		9,070		—		—		—		—		9,070


Stock based compensation	—		2,204		—		—		—		—		—		—		2,204
Purchase of treasury stock (2,557,126 shares)	—		—		—		—		(40,363)		—		—		—		(40,363)
Restricted stock forfeitures (881 shares)	—		—		—		—		(13)		—		—		—		(13)
Employee Stock Ownership Plan shares committed to be released	—		342		—		—		—		565		—		—		907
Funding of deferred compensation obligations	—		—		—		—		—		—		(208)		247		39
Balance at March 31, 2020	$	1,173	$	534,213	$	622,246	$	(59,665)	$	(95,326)	$	(40,999)	$	(1,728)	$	1,212	$	961,126

Balance at December 31, 2020	$	1,220	$	609,531	$	673,084	$	(69,625)	$	(163,015)	$	(39,293)	$	(1,875)	$	1,260	$	1,011,287
Net income	—		—		21,045		—		—		—		—		—		21,045
Other comprehensive (loss)	—		—		—		(2,882)		—		—		—		—		(2,882)

Treasury stock allocated to restricted stock award grants (50,203 shares)	—		(733)		—		—		733		—		—		—		—
Stock based compensation	—		2,143		—		—		—		—		—		—		2,143
Purchase of treasury stock (1,998,539 shares)	—		—		—		—		(32,837)		—		—		—		(32,837)
Restricted stock forfeitures (13,846 shares)	—		242		—		—		(242)		—		—		—		—

Employee Stock Ownership Plan shares committed to be released	—		366		—		—		—		559		—		—		925
Funding of deferred compensation obligations	—		—		—		—		—		—		(266)		234		(32)
Balance at March 31, 2021	$	1,220	$	611,549	$	694,129	$	(72,507)	$	(195,361)	$	(38,734)	$	(2,141)	$	1,494	$	999,649

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows


	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2021		2020
	(In thousands, unaudited)
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$	21,045	$	6,765
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:
Amortization of deferred loan costs, fees and purchased premiums and discounts	(1,241)		824
Net amortization of premiums and discounts on securities	1,425		352
Net amortization of mortgage servicing rights	60		28

Amortization of intangible assets	262		241
Depreciation and amortization of office properties and equipment	1,658		1,615
Amortization of operating lease right-of-use assets	904		929
Loss on extinguishment of debt	742		—
(Reversal of) provision for loan losses	(1,280)		9,568
Gain on securities transactions	—		(370)
Change in fair value of equity securities	588		584
Gain on securitizations	(1,715)		—
Gain on sale of loans	(435)		(754)


Loss on disposal of office properties and equipment	7		670
Loss on write-down of mortgage servicing rights	—		34
Deferred tax expense	736		7,527
Decrease (increase) in accrued interest receivable	786		(678)
Decrease (increase) in other assets	29,600		(83,451)
Increase in accrued expenses and other liabilities	117,631		45,929
Income on bank-owned life insurance	(1,474)		(1,417)
Employee stock ownership plan expense	925		907
Stock based compensation	2,143		2,204
(Decrease) increase in deferred compensation obligations under Rabbi Trust	(32)		39
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	172,335		(8,454)
Cash flows from investing activities:
Proceeds from sales of debt securities available for sale	—		20,761

Proceeds from paydowns/maturities/calls of debt securities available for sale	94,255		36,571
Proceeds from paydowns/maturities/calls of debt securities held to maturity	14,131		12,506
Purchases of debt securities available for sale	(208,575)		(50,544)
Purchases of debt securities held to maturity	(142,888)		—

Proceeds from sales of loans held-for-sale	15,822		51,621
Proceeds from sales of loans receivable	—		15,555

Net increase in loans receivable	(117,233)		(122,262)

Proceeds from bank-owned life insurance death benefits	4		—
Proceeds from redemptions of Federal Home Loan Bank stock	3,479		19,269
Purchases of Federal Home Loan Bank stock	—		(17,923)
Additions to office properties and equipment	(2,481)		(1,703)


Net cash (used in) investing activities	(343,486)		(36,149)

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (continued)


	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2021		2020
	( In thousands, unaudited)

Cash flows from financing activities:
Net increase in deposits	$	217,706	$	126,576
Proceeds from long-term borrowings	—		50,000
Payments on long-term borrowings	(54,168)		(56,100)
Net decrease in short-term borrowings	(23,323)		(23,981)

Increase in advance payments by borrowers for taxes and insurance	532		1,261

Purchase of treasury stock	(32,837)		(40,363)

Restricted stock forfeitures	—		(13)

Net cash provided by financing activities	$	107,910	$	57,380

Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents	$	(63,241)	$	12,777

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	422,957		75,547
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$	359,716	$	88,324

Cash paid during the period for:
Interest on deposits and borrowings	$	10,887	$	23,197
Income tax payments, net of (refunds)	$	(687)	$	—

Non-cash investing and financing activities:

Transfer of loans receivable to loans held-for-sale	$	11,241	$	50,949
Securitization of loans	$	64,027	$	—
Initial recognition of operating lease right-of-use assets	$	—	$	22,218
Initial recognition of operating lease liabilities	$	—	$	23,290

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

1.Basis of Financial Statement Presentation

The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Columbia Financial, Inc., its wholly-owned subsidiary Columbia Bank (the "Bank"), and the Bank's wholly-owned subsidiaries (collectively, the “Company”). In consolidation, all intercompany accounts and transactions are eliminated.

Columbia Financial, Inc. is a majority-owned subsidiary of Columbia Bank, MHC (the "MHC"). The accounts of the MHC are not consolidated in the accompanying consolidated financial statements of the Company.

In preparing the interim unaudited consolidated financial statements, management is required to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities as of the dates of the Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition and Consolidated Statements of Income for the periods presented. Actual results could differ from these estimates. Material estimates that are particularly susceptible to change are the determination of the adequacy of the allowance for credit losses, evaluation of the need for valuation allowances on deferred tax assets, and determination of liabilities related to retirement and other post-retirement benefits. These estimates and assumptions are evaluated on an ongoing basis and are adjusted when facts and circumstances dictate.

The interim unaudited consolidated financial statements reflect all normal and recurring adjustments, which are, in the opinion of management, considered necessary for a fair presentation of the financial condition and results of operations for the periods presented. The results of operations for the three month period ended March 31, 2021 are not necessarily indicative of the results of operations that may be expected for the entire fiscal year or any other period. Certain reclassifications have been made in the consolidated financial statements to conform with current year classifications. During the year ended December 31, 2020, the Company revised the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows. The revision consisted of reclassifying the proceeds from sales of loans held-for-sale from cash flows from operating activities to cash flows from investing activities. The impact of this revision was a decrease to cash flows from operating activities and an increase to cash flows from investing activities of $51.6 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2020. This revision had no impact on cash and cash equivalents as of March 31, 2020.

The interim unaudited consolidated financial statements of the Company presented herein have been prepared in accordance with the rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) for quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”). Certain information and note disclosures have been condensed or omitted pursuant to the rules and regulations of the SEC.

These unaudited consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020 and the audited consolidated financial statements included therein.

2. Acquisitions

Stewardship Financial Corporation

On November 1, 2019, the Company completed its acquisition of Stewardship Financial Corporation ("Stewardship"), pursuant to the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of June 6, 2019 (the "Merger Agreement"), by and among Columbia Financial, Broadway Acquisition Corp. (a wholly owned subsidiary of Columbia Financial) and Stewardship. Under the terms of the merger agreement, each outstanding share of Stewardship common stock was converted into the right to received $15.75 in cash at the effective time of the merger. The consideration paid was $136.3 million. The deposits initially acquired from Stewardship were held across a network of 12 branches located in New Jersey throughout Bergen, Morris, and Passaic Counties. During the three months ended March 31, 2020, four of these branches were closed, and the Bank recorded a loss of $770,000 related to these branch closures.

Merger-related expenses are recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Income and are expensed as incurred. Direct acquisition and other charges incurred in connection with the Stewardship acquisition totaled $962,000 during the three months ended March 31, 2020. There were no merger expenses recorded for the three months ended March 31, 2021.

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

2. Acquisitions (continued)

Roselle Bank

On April 1, 2020, the Company completed its acquisition of RSB Bancorp, MHC, RSB Bancorp, Inc. and Roselle Bank (collectively, the "Roselle Entities" or "Roselle"). Pursuant to the terms of the Merger Agreement, RSB Bancorp, MHC merged with and into the MHC, with the MHC as the surviving entity; RSB Bancorp, Inc. merged with and into Columbia Financial, with Columbia Financial as the surviving entity; and Roselle Bank merged with and into the Bank, with the Bank as the surviving institution. Under the terms of the merger agreement, depositors of Roselle Bank became depositors of the Bank and have the same rights and privileges in the MHC as if their accounts had been established at the Bank on the date established at Roselle Bank. The Company issued 4,759,048 shares of its common stock to the MHC, representing an amount equal to the fair value of the Roselle Entities as determined by an independent appraiser, at the effective time of the merger.

Merger-related expenses are recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Income and are expensed as incurred. Direct acquisition and other charges incurred in connection with the Roselle acquisition totaled $112,000 during the three months ended March 31, 2020. There were no merger expenses recorded for the three months ended March 31, 2021.

The following table sets forth assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the Roselle acquisition, at their estimated fair values as of the closing date of the transaction:


	April 1, 2020
	(In thousands)
Assets acquired:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	155,248
Debt securities available for sale	51,479
Debt securities held to maturity	13,418
Equity securities	1,796
Federal Home Loan Bank stock	2,010
Loans receivable	171,593
Accrued interest receivable	679
Office properties and equipment, net	5,774
Bank-owned life insurance	17,245
Deferred tax asset, net	1,334

Other assets	1,489
Total assets acquired	$	422,065

Liabilities assumed:
Deposits	$	333,234
Borrowings	37,728
Advance payments by borrowers for taxes and insurance	982
Accrued expenses and other liabilities	5,400
Total liabilities assumed	$	377,344

Net assets acquired	44,721
Fair market value of stock issued to Columbia Bank MHC for purchase	68,530
Goodwill recorded at merger	$	23,809

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

2. Acquisitions (continued)

Roselle Bank

The assets acquired and liabilities assumed have been accounted for under the acquisition method of accounting. The assets and liabilities were recorded at their fair values as of April 1, 2020, and resulted in the recognition of goodwill of $23.8 million. The determination of the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed required management to make estimates about discount rates, future expected cash flows, market condition, and other future events that are highly subjective in nature and subject to change. The fair value estimates are subject to change for up to one year after the closing date of the transaction if additional information (existing at the date of closing) relative to closing date fair values becomes available. During the fourth quarter of 2020, the Company completed all tax returns related to the operation of the acquired entity and its impact on the Company's income taxes, which resulted in a $5.1 million adjustment to deferred income taxes, net, and a decrease in goodwill. During the quarter ended March 31, 2021, the Company recorded a final adjustment of $1.1 million to deferred income taxes, net, and a decrease in goodwill. At March 31, 2021, goodwill related to the Roselle acquisition totaled $17.6 million.

3. Earnings per Share

Basic earnings per share ("EPS") is computed by dividing net income available to common shareholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. For purposes of calculating basic EPS, weighted average common shares outstanding excludes treasury stock, unallocated employee stock ownership plan shares that have not been committed for release and deferred compensation obligations required to be settled in shares of Company stock.

Diluted EPS is computed using the same method as basic EPS and reflects the potential dilution which could occur if stock options and unvested shares were exercised and converted into common stock. The potentially diluted shares would then be included in the weighted average number of shares outstanding for the period using the treasury stock method.

The following is a reconciliation of the numerators and denominators of the basic and diluted earnings per share calculations for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020:


	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2021		2020
	(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

Net income	$	21,045	$	6,765
Shares:
Weighted average shares outstanding - basic	105,977,621		108,438,173
Weighted average dilutive shares outstanding	—		—
Weighted average shares outstanding - diluted	105,977,621		108,438,173
Earnings per share:
Basic	$	0.20	$	0.06
Diluted	$	0.20	$	0.06

During the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, the average number of stock options which were anti-dilutive and were not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share totaled 468,156 and 811,853, respectively.

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

4. Stock Repurchase Program

On June 11, 2019, the Company announced that its Board of Directors authorized the Company's first stock repurchase program since the completion of its minority public offering in April 2018. This program, which commenced on June 13, 2019, authorized the purchase of up to 4,000,000 shares, or approximately 3.5%, of the Company's then issued and outstanding common stock. On December 5, 2019, the Company announced that the Board of Directors had expanded its stock repurchase program to authorize the purchase of an additional 3,000,000 shares of the Company's outstanding common stock in addition to the shares remaining under the repurchase program announced on June 11, 2019. On April 23, 2020, the Company completed the repurchases under these stock repurchase programs.

On September 10, 2020, the Company announced that its Board of Directors authorized the Company's second stock repurchase program for the purchase of up to 5,000,000 shares, or approximately 4.3%, of the Company's issued and outstanding common stock, commencing on September 15, 2020. On February 1, 2021, the Company announced that its Board of Directors authorized the Company's third stock repurchase program to acquire up to 5,000,000 shares, or approximately 4.5%, of the Company's then issued and outstanding common stock, commencing upon completion of the Company's second stock repurchase program.

During the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, the Company repurchased 1,998,539 shares at a cost of approximately $32.8 million, or $16.43 per share, and 2,557,126 shares, at a cost of approximately $40.4 million, or $15.78 per share, respectively, under these programs. Repurchased shares are held as treasury stock and are available for general corporate purposes.

5. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Accounting Pronouncement Adopted in 2021

In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-14, Compensation-Retirement Benefits-Defined Benefit Plans-General (Subtopic 715-20): Disclosure Framework-Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Defined Benefit Plans. The amendments in this update modify the disclosure requirements for employers that sponsor defined benefit pension or other post-retirement plans by removing disclosures that no longer are considered cost beneficial, clarifying the specific requirements of disclosures, and adding disclosure requirements identified as relevant. Among other changes, the ASU adds disclosure requirements to Topic 715-20 for the weighted-average interest crediting rates for cash balance plans and other plans with promised interest crediting rates and an explanation of the reasons for significant gains and losses related to changes in benefit obligation for the period. The amendments remove disclosure requirements for the amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income expected to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost over the next fiscal year, the amount and timing of plan assets expected to be returned to the employer, and the effects of a one-percentage-point change in assumed health care cost trend rates on the (a) aggregate of the service and interest cost components of net periodic benefit costs and (b) benefit obligation for post-retirement health care benefits. ASU 2018-14 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2020, including interim reporting periods within that reporting period, with early adoption permitted. The Company adopted this ASU effective January 1, 2021. The update will be applied on a retrospective basis to disclosures with regard to employee benefit plans. The adoption of this update did not have a significant impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.

Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments- Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments ("CECL"), further amended by ASU 2019-04, Codification Improvements to Topic 326, Financial Instruments-Credit Losses, Topic 815, Derivatives and Hedging, and Topic 825, Financial Instruments. Topic 326 pertains to the measurement of credit losses on financial instruments. This update requires the measurement of all expected credit losses for financial instruments held at the reporting date based on historical experience, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts. Financial institutions and other organizations will now use forward-looking information to better determine their credit loss estimates. This update is intended to improve financial reporting by requiring timelier recording of credit losses on loans and other financial instruments held by financial institutions and other organizations. This update is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2019.

The Company elected to defer the adoption of the CECL methodology until December 31, 2020 as permitted by the enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act ("CARES Act"). In late December 2020, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 was enacted, and extended certain provisions of the CARES Act, which allowed the Company to extend the adoption of CECL until January 1, 2022. The Company elected to extend its adoption of CECL in accordance with recent legislation, and will adopt the above mentioned ASUs related to Financial Instruments -Credit Losses (Topic 326) using a modified retrospective approach. Our CECL methodology includes the following key factors and assumptions for all loan portfolio segments:

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

5. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted (continued)

•a historical loss period, which represents a full economic credit cycle utilizing internal loss experience, as well as industry and peer historical loss data;

•a single economic scenario with a reasonable and supportable forecast period of four to six quarters based on management’s current review of macroeconomic factors and the reliability of extended economic forecasts over different time horizons;

•a reversion to historical mean period (after the reasonable and supportable forecast period) using a straight-line approach that extends through the shorter of six quarters or the end of the remaining contractual term; and

•expected prepayment rates based on a combination of our historical experience and market observations.

Based on several analyses performed, as well as an implementation analysis utilizing existing exposures and forecasts of macroeconomic conditions at March 31, 2021, we currently expect the adoption of ASU 2016-13 will result in a decrease between 15% and 25% in our allowance for loan losses and our reserves for unfunded commitments.

As part of the implementation of the ASU, the Company will reconcile historical loan data, determine segmentation of the loan portfolio for application of the CECL calculation, determine the key assumptions, select calculation methods, and establish an internal control framework. We are currently finalizing the execution of our implementation controls and enhancing process documentation.

The expected decrease in the allowance for loan losses and reserve for unfunded commitments is a result of the change from an incurred loss model, which encompasses allowances for current known and inherent losses within the portfolio, to an expected loss model, which encompasses allowances for losses expected to be incurred over the life of the portfolio. Furthermore, ASU 2016-13 will necessitate that we establish an allowance for expected credit losses for certain debt securities and other financial assets; however, we do not expect these allowances to be significant.

Future amounts of provision expense related to our allowance for loan losses and reserves for unfunded commitments will depend on the size and composition of our loan portfolio, future economic conditions and borrowers’ payment performance. Future amounts of provision related our debt securities will depend on the composition of our securities portfolio and current market conditions.

The adoption of ASU 2016-13 is not expected to have a significant impact on our regulatory capital ratios.

Upon adoption, any impact to the allowance for credit losses as of January 1, 2022, currently the allowance for loan losses, will be reflected as an adjustment, net of tax, to retained earnings.

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

6. Debt Securities Available for Sale

Debt securities available for sale at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 are summarized as follows:


	March 31, 2021
	Amortized Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized (Losses)		Fair Value
			(In thousands)

U.S. government and agency obligations	$	39,008	$	942	$	(155)	$	39,795
Mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage obligations	1,331,338		26,471		(9,268)		1,348,541
Municipal obligations	16,633		16		—		16,649
Corporate debt securities	62,667		2,212		(314)		64,565
Trust preferred securities	5,000		—		(304)		4,696
	$	1,454,646	$	29,641	$	(10,041)	$	1,474,246


	December 31, 2020
	Amortized Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized (Losses)		Fair Value
			(In thousands)

U.S. government and agency obligations	$	24,425	$	1,124	$	—	$	25,549
Mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage obligations	1,163,613		37,343		(562)		1,200,394
Municipal obligations	16,845		17		—		16,862
Corporate debt securities	67,628		2,264		(415)		69,477
Trust preferred securities	5,000		—		(330)		4,670
	$	1,277,511	$	40,748	$	(1,307)	$	1,316,952

The amortized cost and fair value of debt securities available for sale at March 31, 2021, by contractual final maturity, is shown below. Expected maturities may differ from contractual maturities due to prepayment or early call options exercised by the issuer.


	March 31, 2021
	Amortized Cost		Fair Value
	(In thousands)

One year or less	$	16,168	$	16,168
More than one year to five years	60,123		61,736
More than five years to ten years	47,017		47,801

	$	123,308	$	125,705
Mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage obligations	1,331,338		1,348,541
	$	1,454,646	$	1,474,246

Mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage obligations totaling $1.3 billion at amortized cost, and $1.3 billion at fair value, are not classified by maturity in the table above as their expected lives are likely to be shorter than the contractual maturity date due to principal prepayments.

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

6. Debt Securities Available for Sale (continued)

During the three months ended March 31, 2021, there were no sales of debt securities available for sale. During the three months ended March 31, 2021, proceeds from one called debt security available for sale totaled $5.0 million, resulting in no gross gain or loss, and proceeds from two matured debt securities available for sale totaled $210,000.

During the three months ended March 31, 2020, proceeds from the sale of debt securities available for sale totaled $20.8 million, resulting in $369,000 of gross gains and no gross losses. During the three months ended March 31, 2020, proceeds from called debt securities available for sale totaled $1.1 million, resulting in $1,000 of gross gains and no gross losses. During the three months ended March 31, 2020, proceeds from matured debt securities available for sale totaled $635,000.

Debt securities available for sale having a carrying value of $788.0 million and $822.2 million, at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively, were pledged as security for public funds on deposit at the Bank as required and permitted by law, pledged for outstanding borrowings at the Federal Home Loan Bank, and pledged for potential borrowings at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.

The following tables summarize the fair value and gross unrealized losses of those securities that reported an unrealized loss at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 and if the unrealized loss position was continuous for the twelve months prior to those respective dates:


	March 31, 2021
	Less Than 12 Months				12 Months or Longer				Total
	Fair Value		Gross Unrealized (Losses)		Fair Value		Gross Unrealized (Losses)		Fair Value		Gross Unrealized (Losses)
	(In thousands)

U.S. government and agency obligations	$	14,530	$	(155)	$	—	$	—	$	14,530	$	(155)
Mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage obligations	431,061		(9,241)		9,898		(27)		440,959		(9,268)

Corporate debt securities	4,846		(154)		4,840		(160)		9,686		(314)
Trust preferred securities	—		—		4,697		(304)		4,697		(304)
	$	450,437	$	(9,550)	$	19,435	$	(491)	$	469,872	$	(10,041)


	December 31, 2020
	Less Than 12 Months				12 Months or Longer				Total
	Fair Value		Gross Unrealized (Losses)		Fair Value		Gross Unrealized (Losses)		Fair Value		Gross Unrealized (Losses)
	(In thousands)


Mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage obligations	$	117,978	$	(481)	$	24,018	$	(81)	$	141,996	$	(562)

Corporate debt securities	9,845		(155)		5,740		(260)		15,585		(415)
Trust preferred securities	—		—		4,670		(330)		4,670		(330)
	$	127,823	$	(636)	$	34,428	$	(671)	$	162,251	$	(1,307)

The Company evaluates securities for other-than-temporary impairment at each reporting period and more frequently when economic or market conditions warrant such evaluation. The temporary loss position associated with debt securities available for sale was the result of changes in market interest rates relative to the coupon of the individual security and changes in credit spreads. The Company does not have the intent to sell securities in a temporary loss position at March 31, 2021, nor is it more likely than not that the Company will be required to sell the securities before the anticipated recovery.

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

6. Debt Securities Available for Sale (continued)

The number of securities in an unrealized loss position at March 31, 2021 totaled 72, compared with 40 at December 31, 2020. All temporarily impaired securities were investment grade as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020.

The Company did not record an other-than-temporary impairment charge on debt securities available for sale during the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020.

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

7. Debt Securities Held to Maturity

Debt securities held to maturity at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 are summarized as follows:


	March 31, 2021
	Amortized Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized (Losses)		Fair Value
	(In thousands)

U.S. government and agency obligations	$	34,995	$	—	$	(493)	$	34,502
Mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage obligations	356,269		8,899		(764)		364,404
	$	391,264	$	8,899	$	(1,257)	$	398,906


	December 31, 2020
	Amortized Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized (Losses)		Fair Value
	(In thousands)

U.S. government and agency obligations	$	5,000	$	1	$	—	$	5,001
Mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage obligations	257,720		14,372		(2)		272,090
	$	262,720	$	14,373	$	(2)	$	277,091

The amortized cost and fair value of debt held to maturity at March 31, 2021, by contractual final maturity, is shown below. Expected maturities may differ from contractual maturities due to prepayment or early call options exercised by the issuer.


	March 31, 2021
	Amortized Cost		Fair Value
	(In thousands)


More than one year to five years	$	15,000	$	14,969
More than five years to ten years	19,995		19,533

	34,995		34,502
Mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage obligations	356,269		364,404
	$	391,264	$	398,906

Mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage obligations totaling $356.3 million at amortized cost, and $364.4 million at fair value at March 31, 2021, are not classified by maturity as their expected lives are likely to be shorter than the contractual maturity date due to principal prepayments.

During the three months ended March 31, 2021, there were no sales or maturities of debt securities held to maturity. During the three months ended March 31, 2021, proceeds from one called debt security held to maturity totaled $5.0 million, resulting in no gross gain or loss.

During the three months ended March 31, 2020, there were no sales or maturities of debt securities held to maturity. During the three months ended March 31, 2020, proceeds from the call of one debt security held to maturity totaled $10.0 million, resulting in no gross gain or loss.

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

7. Debt Securities Held to Maturity (continued)

Debt securities held to maturity having a carrying value of $212.6 million and $220.5 million, at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively, were pledged as security for public funds on deposit at the Bank as required and permitted by law, pledged for outstanding borrowings at the Federal Home Loan Bank, and pledged for potential borrowings at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.


	March 31, 2021
	Less Than 12 Months				12 Months or Longer				Total
	Fair Value		Gross Unrealized (Losses)		Fair Value		Gross Unrealized (Losses)		Fair Value		Gross Unrealized (Losses)
	(In thousands)

U.S. government and agency obligations	$	34,502	$	(493)	$	—	$	—	$	34,502	$	(493)
Mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage obligations	77,010		(764)		—		—		77,010		(764)
	$	111,512	$	(1,257)	$	—	$	—	$	111,512	$	(1,257)


	December 31, 2020
	Less Than 12 Months				12 Months or Longer				Total
	Fair Value		Gross Unrealized (Losses)		Fair Value		Gross Unrealized (Losses)		Fair Value		Gross Unrealized (Losses)
	(In thousands)



Mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage obligations	$	2,176	$	(2)	$	—	$	—	$	2,176	$	(2)

The Company evaluates securities for other-than-temporary impairment at each reporting period and more frequently when economic or market conditions warrant such evaluation. The temporary loss position associated with debt securities held to maturity was the result of changes in market interest rates relative to the coupon of the individual security and changes in credit spreads. The Company does not have the intent to sell securities in a temporary loss position at March 31, 2021, nor is it more likely than not that the Company will be required to sell the securities before the anticipated recovery.

The number of securities in an unrealized loss position at March 31, 2021 totaled 15, compared with 2 at December 31, 2020. All temporarily impaired securities were investment grade as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020.

The Company did not record an other-than-temporary impairment charge on debt securities held to maturity during the three and months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020.

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

8. Equity Securities at Fair Value

The Company has an equity securities portfolio which consists of stock in other financial institutions, a payment technology company, a community bank correspondent services company, and preferred stock in U.S. Government agencies which are reported at fair value on the Company's Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition. The fair value of the equities portfolio at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 was $4.8 million and $5.4 million, respectively.

The Company recorded a net decrease in the fair value of equity securities of $588,000 and $584,000, for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively, as a component of non-interest income.

During the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, there were no sales of equity securities.

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

9. Loans Receivable and Allowance for Loan Losses

Loans receivable at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 are summarized as follows:


	March 31,		December 31,
	2021		2020
	(In thousands)
Real estate loans:
One-to-four family	$	1,877,131	$	1,940,327
Multifamily and commercial	2,873,586		2,817,965
Construction	338,001		328,711
Commercial business loans	825,469		752,870
Consumer loans:
Home equity loans and advances	294,230		321,177
Other consumer loans	1,181		1,497
Total gross loans	6,209,598		6,162,547
Purchased credit-impaired loans	6,230		6,345
Net deferred loan costs, fees and purchased premiums and discounts	9,037		12,878
Loans receivable	$	6,224,865	$	6,181,770

The Company had no loans held-for-sale at March 31, 2021. The Company had $4.1 million of SBA loans held-for-sale at December 31, 2020. During the three months ended March 31, 2021, the Company sold $1.2 million, $4.1 million, and $6.4 million of one-to-four family real estate loans and home equity loans, multifamily and commercial real estate loans, and construction loans held-for-sale, respectively, resulting in no gross gains or losses. During three months ended March 31, 2021, the Company sold $4.2 million of commercial business loans held-for-sale, resulting in gross gains of $435,000 and no gross losses. During the three months ended March 31, 2020, the Company sold $51.6 million of one-to-four family real estate loans held-for-sale resulting in gross gains of $672,000 and no gross losses.

During the three months ended March 31, 2021, no loans included in loans receivable were sold by the Company. During the three months ended March 31, 2020, the Company sold $8.8 million of one-to-four family real estate and home equity loans and $6.7 million representing one commercial business loan included in loans receivable, resulting in gross gains $82,000 and no gross losses.

During the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, there were no loans purchased by the Company.

At March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, commercial business loans included $446.2 million and $344.4 million, respectively, in SBA Payroll Protection Program ("PPP") loans and net deferred fees related to these loans totaling $11.3 million and $6.6 million, respectively.

The Company has entered into guarantor swaps with Freddie Mac which results in improved liquidity. During the three months ended March 31, 2021, the Company exchanged $64.0 million of loans for Freddie Mac mortgage participation certificates, resulting in gross gains of $1.7 million and no gross losses. The Company retained the servicing of these loans. During the three months ended March 31, 2020, no loans were sold.

At March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the carrying value of loans serviced by the Company for investors was $601.6 million and $598.0 million, respectively. These loans are not included in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition.

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

9. Loans Receivable and Allowance for Loan Losses (continued)

The following tables summarize the aging of loans receivable by portfolio segment, including non-accrual loans and excluding PCI loans at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020:


	March 31, 2021
	30-59 Days		60-89 Days		90 Days or More		Total Past Due		Non-accrual		Current		Total
	(In thousands)
Real estate loans:
One-to-four family	$	1,542	$	367	$	1,204	$	3,113	$	2,097	$	1,871,921	$	1,877,131
Multifamily and commercial	4,027		—		1,238		5,265		1,864		2,866,457		2,873,586
Construction	—		—		—		—		—		338,001		338,001
Commercial business loans	1,836		—		1,292		3,128		1,790		820,551		825,469
Consumer loans:
Home equity loans and advances	520		132		253		905		403		292,922		294,230
Other consumer loans	4		—		—		4		—		1,177		1,181
Total loans	$	7,929	$	499	$	3,987	$	12,415	$	6,154	$	6,191,029	$	6,209,598


	December 31, 2020
	30-59 Days		60-89 Days		90 Days or More		Total Past Due		Non-accrual		Current		Total
	(In thousands)
Real estate loans:
One-to-four family	$	3,068	$	912	$	1,901	$	5,881	$	2,637	$	1,931,809	$	1,940,327
Multifamily and commercial	15,645		—		1,238		16,883		1,873		2,799,209		2,817,965
Construction	550		—		—		550		—		328,161		328,711
Commercial business loans	2,343		1,056		2,453		5,852		2,968		744,050		752,870
Consumer loans:
Home equity loans and advances	1,156		696		394		2,246		678		318,253		321,177
Other consumer loans	4		—		—		4		—		1,493		1,497
Total loans	$	22,766	$	2,664	$	5,986	$	31,416	$	8,156	$	6,122,975	$	6,162,547

The Company considers a loan to be delinquent when we have not received a payment within 30 days of its contractual due date. Generally, a loan is designated as a non-accrual loan when the payment of interest is 90 days or more in arrears of its contractual due date. Non-accruing loans are returned to accrual status after there has been a sustained period of repayment performance (generally six consecutive months of payments) and both principal and interest are deemed collectible. The Company identifies loans that may need to be charged-off as a loss, by reviewing all delinquent loans, classified loans and other loans that management may have concerns about collectability. At March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, non-accrual loans totaled $6.2 million and $8.2 million, respectively. Included in non-accrual loans at March 31, 2021, are 18 loans totaling $2.2 million which are less than 90 days in arrears. At December 31, 2020, 19 loans totaling $2.2 million were less than 90 days in arrears.

At March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, there were no loans past due 90 days or more still accruing interest other than COVID-19 related loan forbearances and deferrals. In accordance with the CARES Act, these loans are not included in the aging of loans receivable by portfolio segment in the table above, and the Bank continues to accrue interest income during the forbearance or deferral period. If adverse information indicating that the borrower's capability of repaying all amounts due is unlikely, the interest accrual will cease.

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

9. Loans Receivable and Allowance for Loan Losses (continued)

PCI loans are loans acquired at a discount primarily due to deteriorated credit quality. These loans are initially recorded at fair value at acquisition, based upon the present value of expected future cash flows, with no related allowance for loan losses. PCI loans acquired in the Stewardship acquisition totaled $6.0 million at March 31, 2021 and $6.1 million at December 31, 2020. PCI loans acquired in the Roselle acquisition totaled $244,000 at March 31, 2021 and $246,000 at December 31, 2020.

The following table presents changes in accretable yield for PCI loans for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020.


	March 31,
	2021		2020
	(In thousands)

Balance at beginning of period	$	418	$	511

Accretion	(32)		(49)
Net change in expected cash flows	22		1
Balance at end of period	$	408	$	463

We may obtain physical possession of real estate collateralizing a residential mortgage loan via foreclosure or through an in-substance repossession. At March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the Company had no real estate owned. At March 31, 2021 we had no residential mortgage loans in foreclosure. At December 31, 2020 we had two residential mortgage loans with carrying values totaling $398,000 collateralized by residential real estate which were in the process of foreclosure. The states of New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania have issued executive orders which declare moratoriums on removing individuals from a residential property until at least two months after the COVID health crisis has ended. In response to these orders, in March 2020, the Company temporarily suspended residential property foreclosure sales and evictions.

The following tables summarize loans receivable (including PCI loans) and allowance for loan losses by portfolio segment and impairment method at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020:


	March 31, 2021
	One-to-Four Family		Multifamily and Commercial		Construction		Commercial Business		Home Equity Loans and Advances		Other Consumer Loans		Total
	(In thousands)
Allowance for loan losses:
Individually evaluated for impairment	$	290	$	78	$	—	$	360	$	12	$	—	$	740
Collectively evaluated for impairment	19,560		23,771		11,464		14,444		1,919		6		71,164
Loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality	—		—		—		—		—		—		—
Total	$	19,850	$	23,849	$	11,464	$	14,804	$	1,931	$	6	$	71,904

Total loans:
Individually evaluated for impairment	$	6,630	$	32,533	$	—	$	2,467	$	1,570	$	—	$	43,200
Collectively evaluated for impairment	1,870,501		2,841,053		338,001		823,002		292,660		1,181		6,166,398
Loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality	301		4,852		—		1,077		—		—		6,230
Total loans	$	1,877,432	$	2,878,438	$	338,001	$	826,546	$	294,230	$	1,181	$	6,215,828

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

9. Loans Receivable and Allowance for Loan Losses (continued)


	December 31, 2020
	One-to-Four Family		Multifamily and Commercial		Construction		Commercial Business		Home Equity Loans and Advances		Other Consumer Loans		Total
	(In thousands)
Allowance for loan losses:
Individually evaluated for impairment	$	391	$	601	$	—	$	84	$	12	$	—	$	1,088
Collectively evaluated for impairment	13,195		30,080		11,271		17,300		1,736		6		73,588
Loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality	—		—		—		—		—		—		—
Total	$	13,586	$	30,681	$	11,271	$	17,384	$	1,748	$	6	$	74,676

Total loans:
Individually evaluated for impairment	$	7,257	$	32,792	$	—	$	3,447	$	1,651	$	—	$	45,147
Collectively evaluated for impairment	1,933,070		2,785,173		328,711		749,423		319,526		1,497		6,117,400
Loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality	309		4,893		—		1,143		—		—		6,345
Total loans	$	1,940,636	$	2,822,858	$	328,711	$	754,013	$	321,177	$	1,497	$	6,168,892

Loan modifications to borrowers experiencing financial difficulties that are considered troubled debt restructurings ("TDRs") primarily involve the lowering of the monthly payments on such loans through either a reduction in interest rate below a market rate, an extension of the term of the loan without a corresponding adjustment to the risk premium reflected in the interest rate, or a combination of these two methods. These modifications generally do not result in the forgiveness of principal or accrued interest. In addition, the Company attempts to obtain additional collateral or guarantor support when modifying such loans. Non-accruing restructured loans may be returned to accrual status when there has been a sustained period of repayment performance (generally six consecutive months of payments) and both principal and interest are deemed collectible.

Section 4013 of the CARES Act, “Temporary Relief from Troubled Debt Restructurings,” allows banks to temporarily suspend certain requirements under GAAP related to TDRs for a limited period of time to account for the effects of COVID-19. The Bank elected to account for modifications on certain loans under Section 4013 of the CARES Act or, if the loan modification was not eligible under Section 4013, used the criteria in the COVID-19 guidance to determine when the loan modification was not a TDR in accordance with ASC 310-40. Guidance noted that modification or deferral programs mandated by the federal or a state government related to COVID-19 would not be in the scope of ASC 310-40, such as a state program that requires all institutions within that state to suspend mortgage payments for a specified period. These short-term loan modifications was not treated as a troubled debt restructuring during the short-term modification period if the loan was not in arrears at December 31, 2019. Furthermore, based on current evaluations, generally, we have continued the accrual of interest on these loans during the short-term modification period. The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, which was enacted in late December 2020, extended certain provisions of the CARES Act, including provisions permitting loan deferral extension requests to not be treated as troubled debt restructurings.

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

9. Loans Receivable and Allowance for Loan Losses (continued)

The following tables present the number of loans modified as TDRs during the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, along with their balances immediately prior to the modification date and post-modification. Post-modification recorded investment represents the net book balance immediately following modification.


	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2021					2020
	No. of Loans	Pre-modification Recorded Investment		Post-modification Recorded Investment		No. of Loans	Pre-modification Recorded Investment		Post-modification Recorded Investment
	(Dollars in thousands)
Troubled Debt Restructurings
Real Estate loans:

Multifamily and commercial	—	$	—	$	—	1	$	10,212	$	11,507



Total restructured loans	—	$	—	$	—	1	$	10,212	$	11,507

The activity in the allowance for loan losses by portfolio segment for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 are as follows:


	Three Months Ended March 31,
	One-to-Four Family		Multifamily and Commercial		Construction		Commercial Business		Home Equity Loans and Advances		Other Consumer Loans		Total
	(In thousands)
2021
Balance at beginning of period	$	13,586	$	30,681	$	11,271	$	17,384	$	1,748	$	6	$	74,676
Provision charged (credited)	6,477		(6,672)		192		(1,509)		230		2		(1,280)
Recoveries	3		6		1		16		11		—		37
Charge-offs	(216)		(166)		—		(1,087)		(58)		(2)		(1,529)
Balance at end of period	$	19,850	$	23,849	$	11,464	$	14,804	$	1,931	$	6	$	71,904

2020
Balance at beginning of period	$	13,780	$	22,980	$	7,435	$	15,836	$	1,669	$	9	$	61,709
Provision charged	3,101		3,096		1,964		1,347		59		1		9,568
Recoveries	3		10		—		71		14		—		98
Charge-offs	(86)		(1)		—		(63)		(24)		(1)		(175)
Balance at end of period	$	16,798	$	26,085	$	9,399	$	17,191	$	1,718	$	9	$	71,200

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

9. Loans Receivable and Allowance for Loan Losses (continued)

The following tables present loans individually evaluated for impairment by loan segment, excluding PCI loans, at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020:


	At March 31, 2021
	Recorded Investment		Unpaid Principal Balance		Specific Allowance
	(In thousands)
With no allowance recorded:
Real estate loans:
One-to-four family	$	2,845	$	3,385	$	—
Multifamily and commercial	14,879		15,694		—

Commercial business loans	643		643		—
Consumer loans:
Home equity loans and advances	611		743		—
	18,978		20,465		—
With a specific allowance recorded:
Real estate loans:
One-to-four family	3,785		3,803		290
Multifamily and commercial	17,654		17,657		78

Commercial business loans	1,824		2,780		360
Consumer loans:
Home equity loans and advances	959		959		12
	24,222		25,199		740
Total:
Real estate loans:
One-to-four family	6,630		7,188		290
Multifamily and commercial	32,533		33,351		78

Commercial business loans	2,467		3,423		360
Consumer loans:
Home equity loans and advances	1,570		1,702		12
Total loans	$	43,200	$	45,664	$	740

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

9. Loans Receivable and Allowance for Loan Losses (continued)


	At December 31, 2020
	Recorded Investment		Unpaid Principal Balance		Specific Allowance
	(In thousands)
With no allowance recorded:
Real estate loans:
One-to-four family	$	3,344	$	3,898	$	—
Multifamily and commercial	13,058		13,094		—

Commercial business loans	1,945		1,945		—
Consumer loans:
Home equity loans and advances	714		851		—
	19,061		19,788		—
With a specific allowance recorded:
Real estate loans:
One-to-four family	3,913		3,919		391
Multifamily and commercial	19,734		20,350		601

Commercial business loans	1,502		1,502		84
Consumer loans:
Home equity loans and advances	937		937		12
	26,086		26,708		1,088
Total:
Real estate loans:
One-to-four family	7,257		7,817		391
Multifamily and commercial	32,792		33,444		601

Commercial business loans	3,447		3,447		84
Consumer loans:
Home equity loans and advances	1,651		1,788		12
	$	45,147	$	46,496	$	1,088

Specific allocations of the allowance for loan losses attributable to impaired loans totaled $740,000 and $1.1 million at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively. At March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, impaired loans for which there was no related allowance for loan losses totaled $19.0 million and $19.1 million, respectively.

The recorded investment in TDRs totaled $44.5 million at March 31, 2021, of which two loans totaling $124,000 were 30-59 days past due. The remaining loans modified were current at the time of restructuring and have complied with the terms of their restructure agreement at March 31, 2021. The recorded investment in TDRs totaled $45.4 million at December 31, 2020, of which one loan totaling $91,000 was over 90 days past due, and three loans totaling $11.9 million were 30-59 days past due. The remaining loans modified were current at the time of restructuring and have complied with the terms of their restructure agreement at December 31, 2020.

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

9. Loans Receivable and Allowance for Loan Losses (continued)

The following tables present interest income recognized for loans individually evaluated for impairment, by loan segment, excluding PCI loans for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020:


	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2021				2020
	Average Recorded Investment		Interest Income Recognized		Average Recorded Investment		Interest Income Recognized
	(In thousands)
Real estate loans:
One-to-four family	$	6,944	$	74	$	8,688	$	99
Multifamily and commercial	32,663		425		8,780		166

Commercial business loans	2,957		29		5,814		72
Consumer loans:
Home equity loans and advances	1,611		22		2,130		30
Total loans	$	44,175	$	550	$	25,412	$	367

The Company utilizes an eight-point risk rating system to summarize its loan portfolio into categories with similar risk characteristics. Loans deemed to be “acceptable quality” are rated 1 through 4 (Pass), with a rating of 1 established for loans with minimal risk. Loans that are deemed to be of “questionable quality” are rated 5 (Special Mention) or 6 (Substandard). Loans with adverse classifications are rated 7 (Doubtful) or 8 (Loss). The risk ratings are also confirmed through periodic loan review examinations which are currently performed by both an independent third-party and the Company's credit risk review department. The Company requires an annual review be performed above certain dollar thresholds, depending on loan type, to help determine the appropriate risk ratings. Results from examinations are presented to the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors.

The following tables present loans receivable by credit quality risk indicator and by loan segment, excluding PCI loans at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020:


	March 31, 2021
	One-to-Four Family		Multifamily and Commercial		Construction		Commercial Business		Home Equity Loans and Advances		Other Consumer Loans		Total
	(In thousands)

Pass	$	1,870,683	$	2,803,914	$	338,001	$	814,629	$	293,534	$	1,181	$	6,121,942
Special mention	399		51,121		—		6,192		—		—		57,712
Substandard	6,049		18,551		—		4,648		696		—		29,944
Doubtful	—		—		—		—		—		—		—
Loss	—		—		—		—		—		—		—
Total	$	1,877,131	$	2,873,586	$	338,001	$	825,469	$	294,230	$	1,181	$	6,209,598

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

9. Loans Receivable and Allowance for Loan Losses (continued)


	December 31, 2020
	One-to-Four Family		Multifamily and Commercial		Construction		Commercial Business		Home Equity Loans and Advances		Other Consumer Loans		Total
	(In thousands)

Pass	$	1,935,032	$	2,758,905	$	328,711	$	740,010	$	320,092	$	1,497	$	6,084,247
Special mention	404		40,392		—		6,718		—		—		47,514
Substandard	4,891		18,668		—		6,142		1,085		—		30,786
Doubtful	—		—		—		—		—		—		—
Loss	—		—		—		—		—		—		—
Total	$	1,940,327	$	2,817,965	$	328,711	$	752,870	$	321,177	$	1,497	$	6,162,547

10. Leases

Effective January 1, 2020, the Company adopted ASU 2016-02 Leases (Topic 842) and all subsequent ASU's that modified Topic 842. The Company's leases primarily relate to real estate property for branches and office space. At March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, all of the Company's leases are classified as operating leases.

The Company determines if an arrangement is a lease at inception. Topic 842 requires lessees to recognize a right-of-use asset and a lease liability, measured at the present value of the future minimum lease payments, at the lease commencement date. At the time of adoption, an operating lease right-of-use asset of $22.2 million and operating lease liabilities of $23.3 million were recorded in other assets and other liabilities, respectively on our Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition. The calculated amount of the right-of-use asset and lease liabilities are impacted by the length of the lease term and the discount rate used to calculate the present value of minimum lease payments. As the Company's leases do not provide an implicit rate, the discount rate used in determining the lease liability for each individual lease was the Company's incremental borrowing rate at the time of adoption of ASU 2016-02, on a collateralized basis, over a similar term. Certain leases include options to renew, with one or more renewal terms usually ranging from 3 years to 10 years. For each lease, these extension options were evaluated, and those which were considered reasonably certain of renewal were included in the lease term.

At March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the weighted average remaining lease term for operating leases was 7.3 years and 7.5 years, respectively, and the weighted average discount rate used in the measurement of operating lease liabilities was 2.22%, and 2.26%, respectively.

The Company elected to account for the lease and non-lease components separately since such amounts are readily determinable under the Company's lease contracts. Operating lease expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term, while variable lease payments are recognized as incurred. Variable lease payments include common area maintenance charges, real estate taxes, repairs and maintenance costs and utilities. Operating and variable lease expenses are recorded in occupancy expense in the Consolidated Statements of Income. During the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, operating and variable lease expenses totaled approximately $681,000 and $694,000, respectively.

There were no sale and leaseback transactions, leveraged leases or lease transactions with related parties during the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020. At March 31, 2021, the Company had no leases that had not yet commenced.

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

10. Leases (continued)

The following table summarizes lease payment obligations for each of the next five years and thereafter as follows:


At March 31, 2021	Lease Payment Obligations
	(In thousands)


2021	$	3,081
2022	3,827
2023	3,437
2024	2,712
2025	2,041
Thereafter	6,709
Total undiscounted cash flows	21,807
Discount on cash flows	(1,903)
Total lease liability	$	19,904

11. Deposits

Deposits at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 are summarized as follows:


	March 31,		December 31,
	2021		2020
	(In thousands)

Non-interest-bearing demand	$	1,489,511	$	1,354,605
Interest-bearing demand	2,276,501		2,189,164
Money market accounts	621,064		588,180
Savings and club deposits	732,598		688,309
Certificates of deposit	1,876,656		1,958,366
Total deposits	$	6,996,330	$	6,778,624

Included in the above balances at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 are certificates of deposit obtained through brokers, totaling $16.3 million and $26.3 million, respectively, that were acquired from Stewardship.

The aggregate amount of certificates of deposit that meet or exceed $100,000 totaled approximately $974.7 million and $1.0 billion at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively. Interest expense on deposits for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 totaled $8.9 million and $16.8 million, respectively.

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

11. Deposits (continued)

Scheduled maturities of certificates of deposit accounts at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 are summarized as follows:


	March 31,		December 31,
	2021		2020
	(In thousands)

One year or less	$	1,457,641	$	1,494,129
After one year to two years	286,269		337,579
After two years to three years	56,623		52,809
After three years to four years	27,548		23,018
After four years	48,575		50,831
	$	1,876,656	$	1,958,366

12. Stock Based Compensation

At the Company's annual meeting of stockholders held on June 6, 2019, stockholders approved the Columbia Financial, Inc. 2019 Equity Incentive Plan ("2019 Plan") which provides for the issuance of up to 7,949,996 shares (2,271,427 restricted stock awards and 5,678,569 stock options) of common stock.

On July 23, 2019, 1,389,570 shares of restricted stock were awarded, with a grant date fair value of $15.60 per share. To fund the grant of restricted common stock, the Company issued shares from authorized but unissued shares.

On December 16, 2019, 74,673 shares of restricted stock were awarded, with a grant date fair value of $17.00 per share. To fund the grant of restricted common stock, the Company reissued shares from treasury stock.

On December 14, 2020, 33,160 shares of restricted stock were awarded, with a grant date fair value of $15.08 per share. To fund the grant of restricted common stock, the Company reissued shares from treasury stock.

On March 21, 2021, 50,203 shares of restricted stock were awarded, with a grant date fair value of $17.86 per share. To fund the grant of restricted common stock, the Company reissued shares from treasury stock.

Restricted shares granted under the 2019 Plan generally vest in equal installments, over performance or service periods ranging from 1 year to 5 years, beginning 1 year from the date of grant. A portion of restricted shares awarded are performance vesting awards, which may or may not vest depending upon the attainment of certain corporate financial targets. Management recognizes compensation expense for the fair value of restricted shares on a straight line basis over the requisite performance or service period. During both the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, approximately $1.4 million in expense was recognized in regard to these awards. The expected future compensation expense related to the 1,299,526 non-vested restricted shares outstanding at March 31, 2021 is approximately $13.8 million over a weighted average period of 2.7 years.

The following is a summary of the Company's restricted stock activity during the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020:


	Number of Restricted Shares	Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value

Non-vested at January 1, 2021	1,263,169	$	15.66
Grants	50,203	17.86
Forfeited	(13,846)	15.60
Non-vested at March 31, 2021	1,299,526	$	15.74

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

12. Stock Based Compensation (continued)


	Number of Restricted Shares	Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value

Non-vested at January 1, 2020	1,420,012	$	15.67
Forfeited	(881)	15.60
Non-vested at March 31, 2020	1,419,131	$	15.67

On July 23, 2019, options to purchase 3,707,901 shares of Company common stock were awarded with a grant date fair value of $4.25 per option. Stock options granted under the 2019 Plan vest in equal installments over the service period of five years beginning one year from the date of grant. Stock options were granted at an exercise price of $15.60, which represents the fair value of the Company's common stock price on the grant date based on the closing market price, and have an expiration period of 10 years. The fair value of stock options granted was estimated utilizing the Black-Scholes option pricing model using the following assumptions: expected life of 6.5 years, risk-free rate of return of 1.90%, volatility of 22.12%, and a dividend yield of 0.00%.

On December 16, 2019, options to purchase 184,378 shares of Company common stock were awarded with a grant date fair value of $4.59 per option. Stock options granted under the 2019 Plan generally vest in equal installments over the service period of five years beginning one year from the date of grant. Stock options were granted at an exercise price of $17.00, which represents the fair value of the Company's common stock price on the grant date based on the closing market price, and have an expiration period of approximately 10 years. The fair value of stock options granted was estimated utilizing the Black-Scholes option pricing model using the following assumptions: expected life of 6.5 years, risk-free rate of return of 1.79%, volatility of 22.23%, and a dividend yield of 0.00%.

On March 22, 2021, options to purchase 109,654 shares of Company common stock were awarded with a grant date fair value of $4.91 per option. Stock options granted under the 2019 Plan vest in equal installments over the service period of three years beginning one year from the date of grant. Stock options were granted at an exercise price of $17.86, which represents the fair value of the Company's common stock price on the grant date based on the closing market price, and have an expiration period of approximately ten years. The fair value of stock options granted was estimated utilizing the Black-Scholes option pricing model using the following assumptions: expected life of 6.0 years, risk-free rate of return of 1.11%, volatility of 25.98%, and a dividend yield of 0.00%.

The expected life of the options represents the period of time that stock options are expected to be outstanding and is estimated using the simplified approach, which assumes that all outstanding options will be exercised at the midpoint of the vesting date and full contractual term. The risk-free rate of return is based on the rates on the grant date of a U.S. Treasury Note with a term equal to the expected option life. Since the Company recently became a public company and does not have sufficient historical price data, the expected volatility is based on the historical daily stock prices of Company stock plus a peer group of similar entities based on factors such as industry, stage of life cycle, size and financial leverage. The Company has not paid any cash dividends on its common stock.

Management recognizes expense for the fair value of these awards on a straight line basis over the requisite service period. During the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, approximately $761,000 and $798,500 in expense was recognized in regard to these awards. The expected future compensation expense related to the 3,044,866 non-vested options outstanding at March 31, 2021 is $10.9 million over a weighted average period of 3.4 years.

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

12. Stock Based Compensation (continued)

The following is a summary of the Company's option activity during the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020:


	Number of Stock Options	Weighted Average Exercise Price		Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years)	Aggregate Intrinsic Value

Outstanding, January 1, 2021	3,708,628	$	15.66	8.6	$	—
Granted	109,654	17.86		—	—
Expired	(2,029)	15.60		—	—
Forfeited	(30,118)	15.60		—	—
Outstanding, March 31, 2021	3,786,135	$	15.73	8.4	$	6,673,328





Options exercisable at March 31, 2021	741,269	$	15.66	8.2	$	1,345,897


	Number of Stock Options	Weighted Average Exercise Price		Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years)	Aggregate Intrinsic Value

Outstanding, January 1, 2020	3,784,044	$	15.67	9.6	$	4,812,490

Forfeited	(9,707)	$	15.60	—	—
Outstanding, March 31, 2020	3,774,337	$	15.67	9.3	$	—
Options exercisable at March 31, 2020	—	$	—	—	$	—

The aggregate intrinsic value in the table above represents the total pre-tax intrinsic value, the difference between the Company's closing stock price on the last trading day of the period and the exercise price, multiplied by the number of in-the-money options.

There were no stock option exercises during the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020.

13. Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost

Pension Plan, Retirement Income Maintenance Plan (the "RIM Plan") and Post-retirement Plan

The Company maintains a single employer, tax-qualified defined benefit pension plan (the "Pension Plan") which covers full-time employees that satisfy the Pension Plan's eligibility requirements. The benefits are based on years of service and the employee's average compensation for the highest five consecutive years of employment. Effective October 1, 2018, employees hired by the Bank are not eligible to participate in the Bank's Pension Plan as the plan has been closed to new employees as of that date.

The Company also has a Retirement Income Maintenance Plan (the "RIM "Plan) which is a non-qualified defined benefit plan which provides benefits to all employees of the Company if their benefits under the Pension Plan are limited by Internal Revenue Code 415 and 401(a)(17).

In addition, the Company provides certain health care and life insurance benefits to eligible retired employees under a Post-retirement Plan. The Company accrues the cost of retiree health care and other benefits during the employees’ period of active service. Effective January 1, 2019, the Post-retirement Plan has been closed to new hires. The Company also provides life insurance benefits to eligible employees under an endorsement split-dollar life insurance program.

Net periodic benefit (income) cost for Pension Plan, RIM Plan, Post-retirement Plan and Split-dollar Life Insurance plan benefits for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, includes the following components:

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

13. Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost (continued)


	Three Months Ended March 31,
	Pension Plan				RIM Plan				Post-retirement Plan				Split-Dollar Life Insurance
	2021		2020		2021		2020		2021		2020		2021		2020		Affected Line Item in the Consolidated Statements of Income
	(In thousands)

Service cost	$	2,150	$	1,937	$	100	$	67	$	130	$	99	$	141	$	106	Compensation and employee benefits
Interest cost	1,756		2,031		86		102		141		171		125		114		Other non-interest expense
Expected return on plan assets	(6,318)		(5,737)		—		—		—		—		—		—		Other non-interest expense
Amortization:
Prior service cost	—		—		—		—		—		—		14		14		Other non-interest expense
Net loss	1,000		781		166		99		153		77		191		113		Other non-interest expense
Net periodic (income) benefit cost	$	(1,412)	$	(988)	$	352	$	268	$	424	$	347	$	471	$	347

For the three months ended March 31, 2021, no contribution was made to the Pension Plan. The net periodic cost (income) for pension benefits, other post-retirement and split dollar life insurance benefits for the three months ended March 31, 2021 were calculated using the most recent available benefit valuations.

Through the acquisition of the Roselle entities, the Company acquired a non-contributory defined benefit supplemental executive retirement plan with the only participant being a former president of Roselle Bank. For the three months ended March 31, 2021, the Company recorded a net periodic benefit cost of $2,000 in connection with this plan.

14. Fair Value Measurements

The Company utilizes fair value measurements to record fair value adjustments to certain assets and liabilities and to determine fair value disclosures. The determination of fair values of financial instruments often requires the use of estimates. Where quoted market values in an active market are not readily available, the Company utilizes various valuation techniques to estimate fair value.

In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-01- "Financial Instruments". This guidance amended existing guidance to improve accounting standards for financial instruments including clarification and simplification of the accounting and disclosure requirements and the requirement to use the exit price notion when measuring the fair value of financial instruments for disclosure purposes. The Company adopted the guidance effective January 1, 2019, and the fair value of the Company's loan portfolio is now presented using an exit price method.

Fair value is the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. There are three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair values:

Level 1: Unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in active markets that the Company has the ability to access on the measurement date.

Level 2: Inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. These might include quoted prices for similar instruments in markets that are active or not active, or inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the asset or liability.

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

14. Fair Value Measurements (continued)

Level 3: Prices or valuation techniques that require unobservable inputs that are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable (i.e., supported by minimal or no market activity). Valuation techniques include the use of option pricing models, discounted cash flow models and similar techniques.

A financial instrument’s level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement.

Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis

The methods described below were used to measure fair value of financial instruments as reflected in the tables below on a recurring basis at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020.

Debt Securities Available for Sale, at Fair Value

For debt securities available for sale, fair value was estimated using a market approach. The majority of these securities are fixed income instruments that are not quoted on an exchange, but are traded in active markets. Prices for these instruments are obtained through third-party data service providers or dealer market participants with which the Company has historically transacted both purchases and sales of securities. Prices obtained from these sources include market quotations and matrix pricing. Matrix pricing, a Level 2 input, is a mathematical technique used principally to value certain securities to a benchmark or to comparable securities. The Company evaluates the quality of Level 2 matrix pricing through comparison to similar assets with greater liquidity and evaluation of projected cash flows. As the Company is responsible for the determination of fair value, it performs quarterly analysis on the prices received from the pricing service to determine whether the prices are reasonable estimates of fair value. Specifically, the Company compares the prices received from the pricing service to a secondary pricing source. Additionally, the Company compares changes in the reported market values and returns to relevant market indices to assess the reasonableness of the reported prices. The Company’s internal price verification procedures and review of fair value methodology documentation provided by independent pricing services has not historically resulted in an adjustment in the prices obtained from the pricing service. The Company may hold debt instruments issued by the U.S. government and U.S. government-sponsored agencies that are traded in active markets with readily accessible quoted market prices that are considered Level 1 inputs.

Equity Securities, at Fair Value

The Company holds equity securities that are traded in active markets with readily accessible quoted market prices that are considered Level 1 inputs. A trust preferred security that is not traded in an active market and Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation ("FHLMC") and Federal National Mortgage Association ("FNMA") preferred stock are considered Level 2 instruments. In addition, Level 2 instruments include Atlantic Community Bankers Bank ("ACCB") stock, which is based on redemption at par value and can only be sold to the issuing ACBB or another institution that holds ACBB stock.

Derivatives

The Company records all derivatives included in other assets and liabilities on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition at fair value. The accounting for changes in the fair value of derivatives depends on the intended use of the derivative, whether the Company has elected to designate a derivative in a hedging relationship and apply hedge accounting, and whether the hedging relationship has satisfied the criteria necessary to apply hedge accounting. See note 16 for disclosures related to the accounting treatment for derivatives.

The fair value of the Company's derivatives is determined using discounted cash flow analysis using observable market-based inputs, which are considered Level 2 inputs.

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

14. Fair Value Measurements (continued)

The following tables present the assets and liabilities reported on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition at their fair values at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, by level within the fair value hierarchy:


	March 31, 2021
			Fair Value Measurements
	Fair Value		Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)		Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)		Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
	(In thousands)
Debt securities available for sale:
U.S. government and agency obligations	$	39,795	$	39,795	$	—	$	—
Mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage obligations	1,348,541		—		1,348,541		—
Municipal obligations	16,649		—		16,649		—
Corporate debt securities	64,565		—		64,565		—
Trust preferred securities	4,696		—		4,696		—
Total debt securities available for sale	1,474,246		39,795		1,434,451		—
Equity securities	4,830		4,484		346		—
Derivative assets	10,136		—		10,136		—
	$	1,489,212	$	44,279	$	1,444,933	$	—

Derivative liabilities	$	26,843	$	—	$	26,843	$	—


	December 31, 2020
			Fair Value Measurements
	Fair Value		Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)		Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)		Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
	(In thousands)
Debt securities available for sale:
U.S. government and agency obligations	$	25,549	$	25,549	$	—	$	—
Mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage obligations	1,200,394		—		1,200,394		—
Municipal obligations	16,862		—		16,862		—
Corporate debt securities	69,477		—		69,477		—
Trust preferred securities	4,670		—		4,670		—
Total debt securities available for sale	1,316,952		25,549		1,291,403		—
Equity securities	5,418		5,072		346
Derivative assets	19,425		—		19,425		—
	$	1,341,795	$	30,621	$	1,311,174	$	—

Derivative liabilities	$	42,384	$	—	$	42,384	$	—

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

14. Fair Value Measurements (continued)

There were no Level 3 assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020.

Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Non-Recurring Basis

The valuation techniques described below were used to estimate fair value of financial instruments measured on a non-recurring basis at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020.

Impaired Loans

Loans which meet certain criteria are evaluated individually for impairment. Loan impairment is measured based on the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan's effective interest rate or, as a practical expedient, at the loan's observable market price or the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral dependent. For loans measured for impairment based on the fair value of the underlying collateral, fair value was estimated using a market approach. The Company measures the fair value of collateral underlying impaired loans primarily through obtaining independent appraisals that rely upon quoted market prices for similar assets in active markets. These appraisals include adjustments, on an individual case-by-case basis, to comparable assets based on the appraisers’ market knowledge and experience, as well as adjustments for estimated costs to sell between 6.0% and 8.0%. The Company classifies these loans as Level 3 within the fair value hierarchy.

Mortgage Servicing Rights, Net ("MSR's")

Mortgage servicing rights are carried at the lower of cost or estimated fair value. The estimated fair value of MSRs is obtained through an analysis of future cash flows, incorporating assumptions that market participants would use in determining fair value including market discount rates, prepayments speeds, servicing income, servicing costs, default rates and other market driven data, including the market's perception of future interest rate movements. The prepayment speed and the discount rate are considered two of the most significant inputs in the model. A significant degree of judgment is involved in valuing the mortgage servicing rights using Level 3 inputs. The use of different assumptions could have a significant effect on this fair value estimate.

The following tables present the assets and liabilities reported on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition at their fair values on a non-recurring basis at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, by level within the fair value hierarchy:


	March 31, 2021
			Fair Value Measurements
	Fair Value		Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)		Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)		Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
	(In thousands)

Impaired loans	$	1,580	$	—	$	—	$	1,580

Mortgage servicing rights	1,985		—		—		1,985
	$	3,565	$	—	$	—	$	3,565


	December 31, 2020
			Fair Value Measurements
	Fair Value		Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)		Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)		Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
	(In thousands)



Mortgage servicing rights	1,338		—		—		1,338
	$	1,338	$	—	$	—	$	1,338

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

14. Fair Value Measurements (continued)

The following table presents information for Level 3 assets measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020:

March 31, 2021

Fair Value

Valuation Methodology

Unobservable Inputs

Range of Inputs

Weighted Average

(Dollars in thousands)

Impaired loans

1,580

Discounted cash flow

Expected value of future cash flows (1)

—%

Mortgage servicing rights

1,985

Discounted cash flow

Prepayment speeds and discount rates(2)

8.6% - 24.8%

13.1%

December 31, 2020

Fair Value

Valuation Methodology

Unobservable Inputs

Range of Inputs

Weighted Average

(Dollars in thousands)

Mortgage servicing rights

1,338

Discounted cash flow

Prepayment speeds and discount rates (2)

9.7% - 26.2%

16.7%

(1) Value based on management's estimate of expected future cash flows.

(2) Value of SBA servicing rights based on a discount rate of 10.25%.

Other Fair Value Disclosures

The Company is required to disclose estimated fair value of financial instruments, both assets and liabilities on and off the balance sheet, for which it is practicable to estimate fair value. A description of the valuation methodologies used for those assets and liabilities not recorded at fair value on a recurring or non-recurring basis are set forth below.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

For cash and due from banks, federal funds sold and short-term investments, the carrying amount approximates fair value due to their nature and short-term maturities.

Debt Securities Held to Maturity

For debt securities held to maturity, fair value was estimated using a market approach. The majority of the Company’s securities are fixed income instruments that are not quoted on an exchange, but are traded in active markets. Prices for these instruments are obtained through third-party data service providers or dealer market participants with which the Company has historically transacted both purchases and sales of securities. Prices obtained from these sources include market quotations and matrix pricing. Matrix pricing, a Level 2 input, is a mathematical technique used principally to value certain securities to a benchmark or to comparable securities. The Company evaluates the quality of Level 2 matrix pricing through comparison to similar assets with greater liquidity and evaluation of projected cash flows. As the Company is responsible for the determination of fair value, it performs quarterly analysis on the prices received from the pricing service to determine whether the prices are reasonable estimates of fair value. Specifically, the Company compares the prices received from the pricing service to a secondary pricing source. Additionally, the Company compares changes in the reported market values and returns to relevant market indices to assess the reasonableness of the reported prices. The Company’s internal price verification procedures and review of fair value methodology documentation provided by independent pricing services has not historically resulted in an adjustment in the prices obtained from the pricing service.

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

14. Fair Value Measurements (continued)

The Company also holds debt instruments issued by the U.S. government and U.S. government-sponsored agencies that are traded in active markets with readily accessible quoted market prices that are considered Level 1 inputs within the fair value hierarchy.

Federal Home Loan Bank Stock ("FHLB")

The fair value of FHLB stock is based on redemption at par value and can only be sold to the issuing FHLB, to other FHLBs, or to other member banks. As such, the Company's FHLB stock is recorded at cost, or par value, and is evaluated for impairment each reporting period by considering the ultimate recoverability of the investment rather than temporary declines in value. The Company classifies the estimated fair value as Level 2 within the fair value hierarchy.

Loans Receivable

Fair values are estimated for portfolios of loans with similar financial characteristics. Loans are segregated by type such as commercial mortgage, residential mortgage, commercial, construction, and consumer and other. Each loan category is further segmented into fixed and adjustable rate interest terms and into performing and non-performing categories.

The fair value of performing loans was estimated using a combination of techniques, including a discounted cash flow model that utilizes a discount rate that reflects the Company's current pricing for loans with similar characteristics and remaining maturity, adjusted by an amount for estimated credit losses inherent in the portfolio at the balance sheet date. The rates take into account the expected yield curve, as well as an adjustment for prepayment risk, when applicable. The Company classifies the estimated fair value of its loan portfolio as Level 3.

The fair value for non-performing loans deemed significant was based on recent external appraisals of collateral securing such loans, adjusted for the timing of anticipated cash flows. The Company classifies the estimated fair value of its non-performing loan portfolio as Level 3.

Deposits

The fair value of deposits with no stated maturity, such as demand, money market, and savings and club deposits are payable on demand at each reporting date and classified as Level 2. The estimated fair value of certificates of deposit was based on the discounted value of contractual cash flows. The discount rate was estimated using the Company’s current rates offered for deposits with similar remaining maturities. The Company classifies the estimated fair value of its certificates of deposit portfolio as Level 2.

Borrowings

The fair value of borrowings was estimated by discounting future cash flows using rates available for debt with similar terms and maturities and is classified by the Company as Level 2 within the fair value hierarchy.

Commitments to Extend Credit and Letters of Credit

The fair value of commitments to extend credit and letters of credit was estimated using the fees currently charged to enter into similar agreements, taking into account the remaining terms of the agreements and the present creditworthiness of the counter-parties. For fixed rate loan commitments, fair value also considers the difference between current levels of interest rates and the committed rates. The fair value estimates of commitments to extend credit and letters of credit are deemed immaterial.

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

14. Fair Value Measurements (continued)

The following tables present the assets and liabilities reported on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition at their fair values at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020:


	March 31, 2021
			Fair Value Measurements
	Carrying Value		Total Fair Value		Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)		Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)		Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
	(In thousands)
Financial assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	359,716	$	359,716	$	359,716	$	—	$	—
Debt securities available for sale	1,474,246		1,474,246		39,795		1,434,451		—
Debt securities held to maturity	391,264		398,906		34,502		364,404		—
Equity securities	4,830		4,830		4,484		346		—
Federal Home Loan Bank stock	40,280		40,280		—		40,280		—

Loans receivable, net	6,152,961		6,372,104		—		—		6,372,104
Derivative assets	10,136		10,136		—		10,136		—

Financial liabilities:
Deposits	$	6,996,330	$	7,004,371	$	—	$	7,004,371	$	—
Borrowings	722,615		729,280		—		729,280		—
Derivative liabilities	26,843		26,843		—		26,843		—


	December 31, 2020
			Fair Value Measurements
	Carrying Value		Total Fair Value		Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1)		Significant other observable inputs (Level 2)		Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)
	(In thousands)
Financial assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	422,957	$	422,957	$	422,957	$	—	$	—
Debt securities available for sale	1,316,952		1,316,952		25,549		1,291,403		—
Debt securities held to maturity	262,720		277,091		5,001		272,090		—
Equity securities	5,418		5,418		5,072		346		—
Federal Home Loan Bank stock	43,759		43,759		—		43,759		—

Loans receivable, net	6,107,094		6,394,524		—		—		6,394,524
Derivative assets	19,425		19,425		—		19,425		—

Financial liabilities:
Deposits	$	6,778,624	$	6,793,034	$	—	$	6,793,034	$	—
Borrowings	799,364		808,853		—		808,853		—
Derivative liabilities	42,384		42,384		—		42,384		—

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

14. Fair Value Measurements (continued)

Limitations

Fair value estimates are made at a specific point in time, based on relevant market information and information about the financial instrument. These estimates do not reflect any premium or discount that could result from offering for sale at one time the Company’s entire holdings of a particular financial instrument. Because limited markets exist for a significant portion of the Company’s financial instruments, fair value estimates are based on judgments regarding future expected loss experience, current economic conditions, risk characteristics of various financial instruments, and other factors. These estimates are subjective in nature and involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgment and, therefore, cannot be determined with precision. Changes in assumptions could significantly affect the estimates.

Fair value estimates are based on existing on and off balance sheet financial instruments without attempting to estimate the value of anticipated future business and the value of assets and liabilities that are not considered financial instruments. Other significant assets and liabilities that are not considered financial assets or liabilities include goodwill and intangibles assets, deferred tax assets, office properties and equipment, and bank-owned life insurance.

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

15. Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

The following tables present the components of other comprehensive (loss) income, both gross and net of tax, for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020:


	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2021						2020
	Before Tax		Tax Effect		After Tax		Before Tax		Tax Effect		After Tax
	(In thousands)
Components of other comprehensive (loss) income:
Unrealized (loss) gains on debt securities available for sale:	$	(19,840)	$	2,806	$	(17,034)	$	24,383	$	(5,116)	$	19,267
Accretion of unrealized gain on debt securities reclassified as held to maturity	(4)		18		14		8		(2)		6
Reclassification adjustment for gain included in net income	—		—		—		370		(81)		289
	(19,844)		2,824		(17,020)		24,761		(5,199)		19,562
Derivatives:
Unrealized gain (loss) on swap contracts accounted for as cash flow hedges	5,832		(149)		5,683		(14,360)		3,011		(11,349)
	5,832		(149)		5,683		(14,360)		3,011		(11,349)

Employee benefit plans:
Amortization of prior service cost included in net income	(14)		4		(10)		42		(9)		33
Reclassification adjustment of actuarial net (loss) gain included in net income	(1,511)		422		(1,089)		2,638		(554)		2,084
Change in funded status of retirement obligations	3,050		6,504		9,554		(1,595)		335		(1,260)
	1,525		6,930		8,455		1,085		(228)		857
Total other comprehensive (loss) income	$	(12,487)	$	9,605	$	(2,882)	$	11,486	$	(2,416)	$	9,070

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

15. Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (continued)

The following tables present the changes in the components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax, for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020:


	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2021								2020
	Unrealized Gains on Debt Securities Available for Sale		Unrealized (Losses) on Swaps		Employee Benefit Plans		Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss)		Unrealized Gains on Debt Securities Available for Sale		Unrealized (Losses) on Swaps		Employee Benefit Plans		Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss)
	(In thousands)

Balance at beginning of period	$	31,028	$	(16,856)	$	(83,797)	$	(69,625)	$	9,377	$	(8,474)	$	(69,638)	$	(68,735)


Current period changes in other comprehensive income (loss)	(17,020)		5,683		8,455		(2,882)		19,562		(11,349)		857		9,070
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	$	14,008	$	(11,173)	$	(75,342)	$	(72,507)	$	28,939	$	(19,823)	$	(68,781)	$	(59,665)

The following tables reflect amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) to the Consolidated Statements of Income and the affected line item in the statement where net income is presented for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020:


	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Components
	Three Months Ended March 31,				Affected Line Items in the Consolidated Statements of Income
	2021		2020
	(In thousands)

Reclassification adjustment for gains included in net income	$	—	$	370	Gain on securities transactions
Reclassification adjustment of actuarial net (loss) gain included in net income	(1,511)		2,638		Other non-interest expense
Total before tax	(1,511)		3,008
Income (tax) benefit	422		(635)
Net of tax	$	(1,089)	$	2,373

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

16. Derivatives and Hedging Activities

The Company uses derivative financial instruments as components of its market risk management, principally to manage interest rate risk. Certain derivatives are entered into in connection with transactions with commercial customers. Derivatives are not used for speculative purposes. All derivatives are recognized as either assets or liabilities in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition, reported at fair value and presented on a gross basis. Until a derivative is settled, a favorable change in fair value results in an unrealized gain that is recognized as an asset, while an unfavorable change in fair value results in an unrealized loss that is recognized as a liability.

The Company generally applies hedge accounting to its derivatives used for market risk management purposes. Hedge accounting is permitted only if specific criteria are met, including a requirement that a highly effective relationship exists between the derivative instrument and the hedged item, both at inception of the hedge and on an ongoing basis. Changes in the fair value of effective fair value hedges are recognized in current earnings (with the change in fair value of the hedged asset or liability also recognized in earnings). Changes in the fair value of effective cash flow hedges are recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) until earnings are affected by the variability in cash flows of the designated hedged item. Ineffective portions of hedge results are recognized in current earnings. Changes in the fair value of derivatives for which hedge accounting is not applied are recognized in current earnings.

The Company formally documents at inception all relationships between the derivative instruments and the hedged items, as well as its risk management objectives and strategies for undertaking the hedge transactions. This process includes linking all derivatives that are designated as hedges to specific assets and liabilities, or to specific firm commitments. The Company also formally assesses, both at inception of the hedge and on an ongoing basis, whether the derivatives that are used in hedging transactions are highly effective in offsetting changes in the fair values or cash flows of the hedged items. If it is determined that a derivative is not highly effective or has ceased to be a highly effective hedge, the Company would discontinue hedge accounting prospectively. Gains or losses resulting from the termination of a derivative accounted for as a cash flow hedge remain in other comprehensive income (loss) and is (accreted) amortized to earnings over the remaining period of the former hedging relationship.

Certain derivative financial instruments are offered to certain commercial banking customers to manage their risk of exposure and risk management strategies. These derivative instruments consist primarily of currency forward contracts and interest rate swap contracts. The risk associated with these transactions is mitigated by simultaneously entering into similar transactions having essentially offsetting terms with a third party. In addition, the Company executes interest rate swaps with third parties in order to hedge the interest rate risk of short-term FHLB advances.

Currency Forward Contracts. At March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the Company had no currency forward contracts in place with commercial banking customers.

Interest Rate Swaps. At both March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the Company had interest rate swaps in place with 48 commercial banking customers executed by offsetting interest rate swaps with third parties, with an aggregated notional amount of $175.1 million. These derivatives are not designated as hedges and are not speculative. These interest rate swaps do not meet hedge accounting requirements.

At March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the Company had 29 and 31 interest rate swaps with notional amounts of $410.0 million and $430.0 million, respectively, hedging certain FHLB advances. These interest rate swaps meet the cash flow hedge accounting requirements. Interest rate swaps designated as cash flow hedges involve the receipt of variable amounts from a counter-party in exchange for the Company making fixed-rate payments over the life of the agreements without the exchange of the underlying notional amount.

For the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, the Company did not record any hedge ineffectiveness associated with these contracts.

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

16. Derivatives and Hedging Activities (continued)

The tables below present the fair value of the Company’s derivative financial instruments as well as their classification in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020:

March 31, 2021

Asset Derivative

Liability Derivative

Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition

Fair Value

Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition

Fair Value

(In thousands)

Derivatives:

Interest rate swaps

Other Assets

10,136

Other Liabilities

26,843

Total derivative instruments

10,136

26,843

December 31, 2020

Asset Derivative

Liability Derivative

Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition

Fair Value

Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition

Fair Value

(In thousands)

Derivatives:

Interest rate swaps

Other Assets

19,425

Other Liabilities

42,384

Total derivative instruments

19,425

42,384

For the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, (gains)/losses of $(368,000) and $426,000, respectively, were recorded for changes in fair value of interest rate swaps with third parties.

At March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, accrued interest was $971,000 and $1.0 million, respectively

The Company has agreements with counterparties that contain a provision that if the Company defaults on any of its indebtedness, including default where repayment of the indebtedness has not been accelerated by the lender, then the Company could also be declared in default of its derivative obligations.

At March 31, 2021, the termination value of derivatives in a net liability position, which includes accrued interest, was $15.7 million. The Company has collateral posting thresholds with certain of its derivative counterparties, and has posted collateral of $27.0 million against its obligations under these agreements.

17. Revenue Recognition

On January 1, 2019, the Company adopted ASU 2014-09 Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) and all subsequent ASUs that modified Topic 606. The Company performed a review and assessment of all revenue streams, the related contracts with customers, and the underlying performance obligations in those contracts. This guidance does not apply to revenue associated with financial instruments, including interest income on loans and securities, which comprise the majority of the Company's revenue. Revenue-generating activities that are within the scope of Topic 606, are components of non-interest income. These revenue streams can generally be classified as demand deposit account fees, title insurance fees and other fees.

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

17. Revenue Recognition (continued)

The following table presents non-interest income, segregated by revenue streams in-scope and out-of-scope of Topic 606, for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020.


	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2021		2020
	(In thousands)
Non-interest income
In-scope of Topic 606:
Demand deposit account fees	$	838	$	1,299
Title insurance fees	1,620		1,231
Other non-interest income	1,744		1,417
Total in-scope non-interest income	4,202		3,947
Total out-of-scope non-interest income	4,393		2,444
Total non-interest income	$	8,595	$	6,391

Demand deposit account fees include monthly maintenance fees and service charges. These fees are generally derived as a result of either transaction-based or serviced-based services. The Company's performance obligation for these services is generally satisfied, and revenue recognized, at the time the transaction is completed or the service rendered. Fees for these services are generally received from the customer either at the time of the transaction or monthly.

Title insurance fees are generally recognized at the time the transaction closes or when the service is rendered.

Other non-interest income includes check printing fees, traveler's check fees, gift card fees, branch service fees, overdraft fees, account analysis fees, other deposit related fees, wealth management related fee income which includes annuity fees, brokerage commissions, and asset management fees. Wealth management related fee income represent fees earned from customers as consideration for asset management and investment advisory services provided by a third party. The Company's performance obligation is generally satisfied monthly and the resulting fees are recognized monthly based upon the month-end market value of the assets under management and the applicable fee rate. The Company does not earn performance-based incentives. The Company's performance obligation for these transaction-based services are generally satisfied, and related revenue recognized, at the time the transaction closes or when the service is rendered or a point in time when the service is completed.

Also included in other fees are debit card and ATM fees which are transaction-based. Debit card revenue is primarily comprised of interchange fees earned when a customer's Company card is processed through a card payment network. ATM fees are largely generated when a Company cardholder uses a non-Company ATM, or a non-Company cardholder uses a Company ATM. The Company's performance obligation for these services is satisfied when the service is rendered. Payment is generally received at time of transaction or monthly.

Out-of-scope non-interest income primarily consists of income from bank-owned life insurance, loan prepayment and servicing fees, net fees on loan level interest rate swaps, gains and losses on the sale of loans and securities, and changes in the fair value of equity securities. None of these revenue streams are subject to the requirements of Topic 606.

18. Subsequent Events

The Company has evaluated events subsequent to March 31, 2021 and through the financial statement issuance date of May 10, 2021. The Company has not identified any material subsequent events that would require adjustment or disclosure in the consolidated financial statements.

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Item 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements contained herein are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Such forward-looking statements may be identified by reference to a future period or periods, or by the use of forward-looking terminology, such as “may,” “will,” “believe,” “expect,” “estimate,” "project," "intend," “anticipate,” “continue,” or similar terms or variations on those terms, or the negative of those terms. Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risk factors and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, those set forth in Item 1A of the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K as supplemented by its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and those related to the economic environment, particularly in the market areas in which the Company operates, competitive products and pricing, the outcome of the recent presidential election, as well as its impact on fiscal and monetary policies of the U.S. Government, changes in government regulations affecting financial institutions, including regulatory fees and capital requirements, changes in prevailing interest rates, acquisitions and the integration of acquired businesses, credit risk management, the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic (including its impact on our borrowers and their ability to repay their loans, and on the local and national economies), asset-liability management, the financial and securities markets, and the availability of and costs associated with sources of liquidity.

The Company cautions readers not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements which speak only as of the date made. The Company also advises readers that the factors listed above could affect the Company’s financial performance and could cause the Company’s actual results for future periods to differ materially from any opinions or statements expressed with respect to future periods in any current statements. The Company does not have any obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect any subsequent events or circumstances after the date of this statement.

Comparison of Financial Condition at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020

Total assets increased $241.4 million, or 2.7%, to $9.0 billion at March 31, 2021 from $8.8 billion at December 31, 2020. The increase in total assets was primarily attributable to increases in debt securities available for sale of $157.3 million, debt securities held to maturity of $128.5 million, and loans receivable, net, of $45.9 million, partially offset by decreases of $63.2 million in cash and cash equivalents and $19.3 million in other assets.

Cash and cash equivalents decreased $63.2 million, or 15.0%, to $359.7 million at March 31, 2021 from $423.0 million at December 31, 2020. The decrease was primarily attributable to $351.5 million in purchases of debt securities available for sale and held to maturity, $32.8 million in repurchases of common stock under our stock repurchase program, and $56.5 million in prepayments of borrowings, partially offset by an increase in repayments on loans, repayments on mortgage-backed securities, and growth in deposits.

Debt securities available for sale increased $157.3 million, or 11.9%, to $1.5 billion at March 31, 2021 from $1.3 billion at December 31, 2020. The increase was attributable to purchases of $208.6 million of securities primarily consisting of U.S. government and agency obligations and mortgage-backed securities, and $64.0 million in purchases of guarantor swaps with Freddie Mac, partially offset by maturities and calls of $5.2 million in corporate debt and municipal securities, and repayments of $89.1 million. The gross unrealized gain (loss) on debt securities available for sale decreased by $19.8 million during the quarter ended March 31, 2021.

Debt securities held to maturity increased $128.5 million, or 48.9%, to $391.3 million at March 31, 2021 from $262.7 million at December 31, 2020. The increase was primarily attributable to purchases of $142.9 million of securities primarily consisting of U.S. agency obligations and mortgage-backed securities, partially offset by the call of a $5.0 million U.S. agency obligation and repayments of $9.1 million.

Loans receivable, net, increased $45.9 million, or 0.8%, to $6.2 billion at March 31, 2021 from $6.1 billion at December 31, 2020. Commercial business loans, multi-family and commercial real estate loans and construction loans increased $72.6 million, $55.6 million, and $9.3 million, respectively, partially offset by decreases in one-to-four family real estate loans and home equity loans and advances of $63.2 million, and $26.9 million, respectively. The increase in commercial business loans for the quarter ended March 31, 2021, was mainly due to the origination of $217.5 million in loans granted as part of the SBA PPP. The allowance for loan loss balance decreased $2.8 million to $71.9 million at March 31, 2021 from $74.7 million at December 31, 2020, which was primarily attributable to a decrease in loan loss rates, and a decrease in the balance of delinquent and non-accrual loans, as well as the consideration of improving economic conditions. The current allowance for loan losses was calculated utilizing the existing incurred loss methodology. The Company elected to defer the adoption of the Current Expected Credit Loss ("CECL") methodology as was originally permitted by the CARES Act and the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, which, when enacted, extended certain provisions of the CARES Act. The Company expects to adopt CECL on January 1, 2022.

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Item 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Other assets decreased $19.3 million, or 9.2%, to $190.5 million at March 31, 2021 from $209.9 million at December 31, 2020. The decrease in other assets consisted of a $14.3 million decrease in the collateral balance related to our swap agreement obligations, and a decrease of $6.8 million in federal and state income tax receivables.

Total liabilities increased $253.0 million, or 3.2%, to $8.0 billion at March 31, 2021 from $7.8 billion at December 31, 2020. The increase was primarily attributable to an increase in total deposits of $217.7 million, or 3.2%, and an increase in accrued expenses and other liabilities of $111.5 million, or 63.1%, partially offset by a decrease in borrowings of $76.7 million, or 9.6%. The increase in total deposits consisted of increases in non-interest-bearing and interest-bearing demand deposits of $134.9 million and $87.3 million, respectively, and money market accounts and savings and club deposits of $32.9 million and $44.3 million, respectively, partially offset by a decrease in certificates of deposit accounts of $81.7 million. The increase in accrued expenses and other liabilities consisted of a $130.0 million liability related to unsettled securities trades, and a $15.5 million decrease in interest rate swap liabilities. The decrease in borrowings was primarily driven by the prepayment of $56.5 million of FHLB borrowings and a net decrease in short-term borrowings of $23.0 million.

Total stockholders’ equity decreased $11.6 million, or 1.2%, to $999.6 million at March 31, 2021 from $1.0 billion at December 31, 2020. The decrease was primarily attributable to the repurchase of 1,998,539 shares of common stock totaling $32.8 million under our stock repurchase program, partially offset by net income of $21.0 million.

Comparison of Results of Operations for the Quarter Ended March 31, 2021 and March 31, 2020

Net income of $21.0 million was recorded for the quarter ended March 31, 2021, an increase of $14.3 million, or 211.1%, compared to net income of $6.8 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2020. The increase in net income was primarily attributable to a $6.0 million increase in net interest income, a $10.8 million decrease in provision for loan losses, a $2.2 million increase in non-interest income and an $805,000 decrease in non-interest expense, partially offset by a $5.6 million increase in income tax expense.

Net interest income was $56.7 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2021, an increase of $6.0 million, or 11.9%, from $50.7 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2020. The increase in net interest income was primarily attributable to a $13.1 million decrease in interest expense, partially offset by a $7.1 million decrease in interest income. The decrease in interest expense on deposits was driven by both an inflow of lower cost deposits and the repricing of existing deposits at a significantly reduced rate as a result of a lower interest rate environment. The decrease in interest expense on borrowings was the result of decreases in both the average balance and average cost of borrowings. During the quarter ended March 31, 2021, $56.5 million of Federal Home Loan Bank of New York ("FHLB") borrowings were prepaid, resulting in a $742,000 loss on early extinguishment of debt included in non-interest expense. The Company has significantly reduced the cost of borrowings over the last two quarters by prepaying longer-term high rate borrowings. The decrease in interest income for the quarter ended March 31, 2021 was largely due to decreases in the average yields on interest-earning assets. Deferred fee acceleration of $2.1 million was recognized upon forgiveness of $109.1 million in SBA Paycheck Protection Program ("PPP") loans for the quarter ended March 31, 2021. Prepayment penalties, which are included in interest income on loans, totaled $968,000 for the quarter ended March 31, 2021, compared to $722,000 for the quarter ended March 31, 2020.

The average yield on loans for the quarter ended March 31, 2021 decreased 28 basis points to 3.87%, as compared to 4.15% for the quarter ended March 31, 2020, while the average yield on securities for the quarter ended March 31, 2021 decreased 67 basis points to 2.05%, as compared to 2.72% for the quarter ended March 31, 2020. The average yield on other interest-earning assets for the quarter ended March 31, 2021 decreased 439 basis points to 0.67%, as compared to 5.06% for the quarter ended March 31, 2020, as there were substantially higher cash balances in low yielding bank accounts for the quarter ended March 31, 2021. Decreases in the average yields on these portfolios for the quarter ended March 31, 2021 were influenced by the lower interest rate environment as the Federal Reserve reduced interest rates by 150 basis points in March 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Total interest expense was $10.9 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2021, a decrease of $13.1 million, or 54.6%, from $24.0 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2020. The decrease in interest expense was primarily attributable to a 77 basis point decrease in the average cost of interest-bearing deposits which was partially offset by the impact of the increase in the average balance of deposits. The decrease in the cost of deposits was driven by both an inflow of lower cost deposits and the repricing of existing deposits at lower interest rates. Interest on borrowings decreased $5.1 million due to a decrease in the average balances of FHLB advances and subordinated notes, coupled with a 98 basis point decrease in the cost of total borrowings. During the quarter ended March 31, 2021, we prepaid $53.5 million of FHLB borrowings with an average rate of 2.64% and original contractual maturities through March 2022, and a $3.0 million FHLB borrowing acquired in our acquisition of Roselle Bank with a rate of 2.74% and an original contractual maturity of March 2024. The prepayments were funded by excess cash liquidity. The transactions were accounted for as early debt extinguishments resulting in a total loss of $742,000.

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Item 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The Company's net interest margin for the quarter ended March 31, 2021 increased 15 basis points to 2.80%, when compared to 2.65% for the quarter ended March 31, 2020. The weighted average yield on interest-earning assets decreased 57 basis points to 3.34% for the quarter ended March 31, 2021 as compared to 3.91% for the quarter ended March 31, 2020. Excluding the impact of PPP loan deferred fee acceleration for the quarter ended March 31, 2021, the net interest margin would have been 2.69%. The average cost of interest-bearing liabilities decreased 87 basis points to 0.71% for the quarter ended March 31, 2021 as compared to 1.58% for the quarter ended March 31, 2020. The decrease in yields and costs for the quarter ended March 31, 2021 were largely driven by a continued lower interest rate environment. The net interest margin increased for the quarter ended March 31, 2021 as the cost of interest-bearing liabilities continued to reprice lower more rapidly than the yields on interest-earning assets.

The reversal of provision for loan loss recorded for the quarter ended March 31, 2021 was $1.3 million, a decrease of $10.8 million, from $9.6 million of provision for loan loss expense recorded for the quarter ended March 31, 2020. The comparatively lower level of provision for the 2021 period was primarily attributable to a decrease in the average balance of loans, a decrease in loan loss rates, a decrease in the balances of delinquent and non-accrual loans, and the consideration of the improving economic environment.

Non-interest income was $8.6 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2021, an increase of $2.2 million, or 34.5%, from $6.4 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2020. The increase was primarily attributable to an increase in income from the gain on the sale of loans of $1.4 million and an increase in other non-interest income of $1.3 million, partially offset by a decrease in demand deposit account fees of $461,000. The increase in other non-interest income is primarily attributable to higher consumer check card income and interest rate swap fair value adjustments.

Non-interest expense was $37.7 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2021, a decrease of $805,000, or 2.1%, from $38.5 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2020. The decrease was primarily attributable to a decrease in compensation and employee benefits expense of $1.1 million, and a decrease in merger-related expenses of $1.1 million, partially offset by an increase in data processing and software expenses of $541,000 and a loss on the extinguishment of debt of $742,000. The decrease in compensation and employee benefits was primarily attributable to an increase in amounts deferred as direct loan origination costs as a result of an increase in originations. Merger-related expenses recorded in the 2020 period related to the acquisitions of Stewardship Financial Corporation and Roselle Bank. The increase in data processing and software expenses was attributable to the purchase and implementation of several digital banking and other Fintech solutions, as well as the amortization of software costs related to a digital small business lending solution. As noted above, during the quarter ended March 31, 2021, the Company utilized excess liquidity to prepay long-term borrowings which resulted in a $742,000 loss on the early extinguishment of debt.

Income tax expense was $7.9 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2021, an increase of $5.6 million, as compared to $2.3 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2020, mainly due to an increase in pre-tax income, and to a lesser extent, an increase in the effective tax rate. The Company's effective tax rate was 27.2% and 25.0% for the quarters ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.

Asset Quality

The Company's non-performing loans at March 31, 2021 totaled $6.2 million, or 0.10% of total gross loans, as compared to $8.2 million, or 0.13% of total gross loans, at December 31, 2020. The $2.0 million decrease in non-performing loans was primarily attributable to decreases of $539,000 in non-performing one-to-four family real estate loans, $1.0 million in non-performing commercial business loans, and $275,000 in non-performing home equity loans and advances. The decrease in non-performing one-to-four family real estate loans was due to a decrease in the number of loans from 13 non-performing loans at December 31, 2020 to 11 non-performing loans at March 31, 2021. The decrease in non-performing commercial business loans was mainly due to charge-offs totaling $1.1 million. The decrease in non-performing home equity loans and advances was due to a decrease in the number of loans from 12 non-performing loans at December 31, 2020 to eight non-performing loans at March 31, 2021. Non-performing assets as a percentage of total assets totaled 0.07% at March 31, 2021 as compared to 0.09% at December 31, 2020.

For the quarter ended March 31, 2021, net charge-offs totaled $1.5 million as compared to $77,000 for the quarter ended March 31, 2020. The increase in net charge-offs for the quarter ended March 31, 2021, was primarily due to a $956,000 charge-off of one commercial business loan and charge-offs totaling $206,000 for three one-to-four family real estate loans.

The Company's allowance for loan losses was $71.9 million, or 1.16% of total loans, at March 31, 2021, compared to $74.7 million, or 1.21% of total loans, at December 31, 2020. The decrease in the allowance for loan losses was primarily attributable to a decrease in loan loss rates, and a decrease in the balance of delinquent and non-accrual loans, as well as the consideration of improving economic conditions.

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Item 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

COVID-19

Through March 31, 2021, the Company granted commercial loan modification requests with respect to multifamily, commercial, and construction real estate loans with current balances of $726.8 million and consumer-related loan modification requests with respect to one-to-four family real estate loans and home equity loans and advances with current balances of $164.7 million to our customers affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. These short-term loan modifications will be treated in accordance with Section 4013 of the CARES Act and will not be treated as troubled debt restructurings during the short-term modification period if the loan was not in arrears. The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, which was enacted in late December 2020, extended certain provisions of the CARES Act, including provisions permitting loan deferral extension requests to not be treated as troubled debt restructurings. Furthermore, these loans will continue to accrue interest and will not be tested for impairment during the short-term modification period. Commercial loan modification requests include various industries and property types. The following table is a summary of loan modifications that have not begun to remit full payment:


	Balance at December 31, 2020		Percent of Total Loans at December 31, 2020		Balance at March 31, 2021		Percent of Total Loans at March 31, 2021		Balance at April 22, 2021		Percent of Total Loans at April 22, 2021
	(Dollars in thousands)
Real estate loans:
One-to-four family	$	6,770	0.35	%	$	7,168	0.38	%	$	5,660	0.30	%
Multifamily and commercial	71,348		2.53		64,746		2.25		57,464		1.96
Construction	3,312		1.01		3,337		0.99		3,337		1.12
Commercial business loans	3,397		0.45		3,073		0.37		2,792		0.34

Home equity loans and advances	314		0.10		626		0.21		—		—

Total loans	$	85,141	1.38	%	$	78,950	1.27	%	$	69,253	1.11	%

At March 31, 2021, $37.7 million of the commercial loans in the above table are remitting partial payments and $70.7 million were granted an additional deferral period.

Critical Accounting Policies

The Company considers certain accounting policies to be critically important to the fair presentation of its Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition and Consolidated Statements of Income. These policies require management to make significant judgments on matters which by their nature have elements of uncertainty. The sensitivity of the Company’s consolidated financial statements to these critical accounting policies, and the assumptions and estimates applied, could have a significant impact on its financial condition and results of operations. These assumptions, estimates and judgments made by management can be influenced by a number of factors, including the general economic environment. The Company has identified the following as critical accounting policies:

▪Adequacy of the allowance for loan losses

▪Valuation of deferred tax assets

▪Valuation of retirement and post-retirement benefits

The calculation of the allowance for loan losses is a critical accounting policy of the Company. The allowance for loan losses is a valuation account that reflects management’s evaluation of the probable losses in the loan portfolio. Determining the amount of the allowance for loan losses involves a high degree of judgment. Estimates required to establish the allowance include: the overall economic environment, value of collateral, strength of guarantors, loss exposure in the event of default, the amount and timing of future cash flows on impaired loans, and determination of loss factors applied to the portfolio segments. These estimates are susceptible to significant change. Management regularly reviews loss experience within the portfolio and monitors current economic conditions and other factors related to the collectability of the loan portfolio. As previously mentioned, the Company elected to defer the adoption of the CECL methodology permitted by the recently enacted CARES Act. The Company expects to adopt CECL on January 1, 2022.

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Item 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The Company maintains the allowance for loan losses through provisions for (reversal of) loan losses which are charged to income. Charge-offs against the allowance for loan losses are taken on loans where management determines that the collection of loan principal is unlikely. Recoveries made on loans that have been charged-off are credited to the allowance for loan losses.

As part of the evaluation of the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses, management prepares an analysis each quarter that categorizes the loan portfolio by certain risk characteristics such as loan type (residential mortgage, commercial mortgage, construction, commercial business, etc.) and loan risk rating.

When assigning a risk rating to a loan, management utilizes an eight-point internal risk rating system. Loans deemed to be “acceptable quality” are rated 1 through 4, with a rating of 1 established for loans with minimal risk. Loans deemed to be of “questionable quality” are rated 5 (Special Mention) or 6 (Substandard). Loans with adverse classifications are rated 7 (Doubtful) or 8 (Loss). The risk ratings are also confirmed through periodic loan review examinations, which are currently performed by both an independent third-party and the Company's internal loan review department. The Company requires an annual review be performed above certain dollar thresholds, depending on loan type, to help determine the appropriate risk rating. Results are presented to the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors.

Management estimates the allowance for loans collectively evaluated for impairment by applying quantitative loss factors to the loan segments by risk rating and determining qualitative adjustments to each loan segment at an overall level. Quantitative loss factors give consideration to historical loss experience and migration experience by loan type over a look-back period, adjusted for a loss emergence period. Qualitative adjustments give consideration to other qualitative or environmental factors such as trends and levels of delinquencies, impaired loans, charge-offs, recoveries and loan volumes, as well as national and local economic trends and conditions. Qualitative adjustments reflect risks in the loan portfolio not captured by the quantitative loss factors and, as such, are evaluated relative to risk levels present over the look-back period. The reserves resulting from the application of both the quantitative experiences and qualitative factors are combined to arrive at the allowance for loan losses for loans collectability evaluated for impairment,

Management believes the primary risks inherent in the portfolio are a general decline in the economy, a decline in real estate market values, rising unemployment, elevated unemployment, increasing vacancy rates, and increases in interest rates in the absence of economic improvement. Any one or a combination of these events may adversely affect a borrower's ability to repay its loan, resulting in increased delinquencies and loan losses. Accordingly, the Company has recorded loan losses at a level which is estimated to represent the current risk in its loan portfolio. Management considers it important to maintain the ratio of the allowance for loan losses to total loans at an acceptable level considering the current composition of the loan portfolio.

Although management believes that the Company has established and maintained the allowance for loan losses at appropriate levels, additional reserves may be necessary if future economic and other conditions differ substantially from the current operating environment. Management evaluates its estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis and the estimates and assumptions are adjusted when facts and circumstances necessitate a re-valuation of the estimate. As future events and their effects cannot be determined with precision, actual results could differ significantly from these estimates. In addition, regulatory agencies periodically review the adequacy of the Company’s allowance for loan losses as an integral part of their examination process. Such agencies may require the Company to recognize additions to the allowance or additional write-downs based on their judgments about information available to them at the time of their examination. Although management uses the best information available, the level of the allowance for loan losses remains an estimate that is subject to significant judgment.

We assessed the impact of the pandemic on the Company’s financial condition, including its determination of the allowance for loan losses. Beginning in March 2020, management established an additional qualitative loss factor solely related to the impact of COVID-19 in the calculation. As part of that assessment, the Company considered the effects of the pandemic on economic conditions such as increasing unemployment rates and the shut-down of all non-essential businesses. The Company also analyzed the impact of COVID-19 on its primary market as well as the impact on the Company’s market sectors and its specific customers. As part of its estimation of an adjustment to the allowance due to COVID-19, the Company identified those market sectors or industries that were more likely to be affected, such as hospitality, transportation and outpatient care centers. To determine the potential impact on the Company’s customers, management considered significant revenue declines in a borrower’s business as well as reductions in its operating cash flows and the impact on their ability to repay their loans, and estimated the probability of default and loss-given-default for the various loan categories and assigned a weighting to each scenario. Based on this analysis, management estimated the potential impact resulting from COVID-19, and the adjustment to the allowance that was necessary. Management continues to evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 qualitative loss factor on a quarterly basis.

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Item 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The determination of whether deferred tax assets will be realizable is predicated on the reversal of existing deferred tax liabilities, utilization against carry-back years, and projections of future taxable income. These estimates are subject to management’s judgment. A valuation allowance is established when management is unable to conclude that it is more likely than not that it will realize deferred tax assets based on the nature and timing of these items. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income tax expense in the period enacted. Management believes, based on current facts, that it is more likely than not that there will be sufficient taxable income in future years to realize federal deferred tax assets and that it is more likely than not that the benefits from certain state temporary differences will not be realized. At March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the Company's net deferred tax assets totaled $13.2 million and $7.2 million, respectively, which included a valuation allowance totaling $3.7 million and $3.4 million, respectively. Based upon projections of future taxable income and the ability to carryforward operating losses indefinitely, management believes it is more likely than not the Company will realize the remaining deferred tax assets.

The Company provides certain health care and life insurance benefits, along with a split dollar BOLI death benefit, to eligible retired employees. The cost of retiree health care and other benefits during the employees' period of active service are accrued monthly. The accounting guidance requires the following: a) recognize in the statement of financial position the over funded or underfunded status of a defined benefit post-retirement plan measured as the difference between the fair value of plan assets and the benefit obligations; b) measure a plan's assets and its obligations that determine its funded status as of the end of the Company's fiscal year (with limited exceptions); and c) recognizes a component of other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax, the actuarial gain and losses and the prior service costs and credits that arise during the period. These assets and liabilities and expenses are based upon actuarial assumptions including interest rates, rates of increase in compensation, expected rate of return on plan assets and the length of time we will have to provide those benefits. Actual results may differ from these assumptions. These assumptions are reviewed and updated at least annually and management believes the estimates are reasonable.

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Item 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

Qualitative Analysis. Interest rate risk is defined as the exposure of a Company's current and future earnings and capital arising from movements in market interest rates. The guidelines of the Company’s interest rate risk policy seek to limit the exposure to changes in interest rates that affect the underlying economic value of assets, liabilities, earnings and capital.

The Asset/Liability Committee meets regularly to review the impact of interest rate changes on net interest income, net interest margin, net income, and the economic value of equity. The Asset/Liability Committee reviews a variety of strategies that project changes in asset or liability mix and the impact of those changes on projected net interest income and net income.

The Company’s strategy for liabilities has been to maintain a stable funding base by focusing on core deposit accounts. The Company’s ability to retain maturing time deposit accounts is the result of its strategy to remain competitively priced within its marketplace. The Company’s pricing strategy may vary depending upon current funding needs and the ability of the Company to fund operations through alternative sources.

Quantitative Analysis. Current and future sensitivity to changes in interest rates are measured through the use of balance sheet and income simulation models. The analysis captures changes in net interest income using flat rates as a base and rising and declining interest rate forecasts. Changes in net interest income and net income for the forecast period, generally twelve to twenty-four months, are measured and compared to policy limits for acceptable changes. The Company periodically reviews historical deposit re-pricing activity and makes modifications to certain assumptions used in its balance sheet and income simulation models regarding the interest rate sensitivity of deposits. These modifications are made to more closely reflect the most likely results under the various interest rate change scenarios. Since it is inherently difficult to predict the sensitivity of interest-bearing deposits to changes in interest rates, the changes in net interest income due to changes in interest rates cannot be precisely predicted. There are a variety of reasons that may cause actual results to vary considerably from the predictions presented below which include, but are not limited to, the timing, magnitude, and frequency of changes in interest rates, interest rate spreads, prepayments, and actions taken in response to such changes.

Assumptions used in the simulation model may include but are not limited to:

•Securities pricing from third parties;

•Loan pricing indications from third parties;

•Loan and depository spread assumptions based upon the Company's product offerings;

•Securities and borrowing spreads based upon third party indications; and

•Prepayment assumptions derived from the Company's actual results and third party surveys.

Certain shortcomings are inherent in the methodologies used in the interest rate risk measurements. Modeling changes in net interest income requires the use of certain assumptions regarding prepayment and deposit repricing, which may or may not reflect the manner in which actual yields and costs respond to changes in market interest rates. While management believes such assumptions are reasonable, there can be no assurance that assumed prepayment rates and repricing rates will approximate actual future asset prepayment and liability repricing activity.

The table below sets forth an approximation of our interest rate exposure. Net interest income assumes that the composition of interest sensitive assets and liabilities existing at the beginning of a period remains constant over the period being measured and also assumes that a particular change in interest rates is reflected uniformly across the yield curve regardless of the duration to maturity or repricing of specific assets and liabilities. Accordingly, although the net interest income table provides an indication of our interest rate risk exposure at a particular point in time, such measurement is not intended to and does not provide a precise forecast of the effect of changes in market interest rates on our net interest income and will differ from actual.

The table below sets forth, as of March 31, 2021, Columbia Bank's net portfolio value, the estimated changes in our net portfolio value, and the net interest income that would result from the designated instantaneous parallel changes in market interest rates. This data is for Columbia Bank and its subsidiaries only and does not include any assets of the Company.

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Item 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK


	Twelve Months Net Interest Income						Net Portfolio Value ("NPV")
Change in Interest Rates (Basis Points)	Amount		Dollar Change		Percent of Change		Estimated NPV		Present Value Ratio		Percent Change
					(Dollars in Thousands)
+300	$	219,122	$	5,048	2.36	%	$	927,337	11.39	%	(11.09)	%
+200	217,512		3,438		1.61		975,847		11.64		(6.44)
+100	215,715		1,641		0.77		1,013,632		11.73		(2.81)
Base	214,074		—		—		1,042,968		11.69		—
-100	201,201		(12,873)		(6.01)		969,886		10.57		(7.01)

As of March 31, 2021, based on the scenarios above, net interest income would increase by approximately 1.61% if rates were to rise 200 basis points, and would decrease by 6.01% if rates were to decrease 100 basis points over a one-year time horizon.

Another measure of interest rate sensitivity is to model changes in net portfolio value through the use of immediate and sustained interest rate shocks. As of March 31, 2021, based on the scenarios above, in the event of an immediate and sustained 200 basis point increase in interest rates, the NPV is projected to decrease 6.44%. If rates were to decrease 100 basis points, the model forecasts a 7.01% decrease in the NPV.

Overall, our March 31, 2021 results indicate that we are adequately positioned with an acceptable net interest income and economic value at risk in all scenarios and that all interest rate risk results continue to be within our policy guidelines.

Liquidity Management and Capital Resources:

Liquidity Management. Liquidity refers to the Company's ability to generate adequate amounts of cash to meet financial obligations of a short-term and long-term nature. Sources of funds consist of deposit inflows, loan repayments and maturities, maturities and sales of securities, and the ability to execute new borrowings. While maturities and scheduled amortization of loans and securities are predictable sources of funds, deposit flows, calls of debt securities, and prepayments on loans and mortgage-backed securities are influenced by economic conditions, competition, and interest rate movements.

The Company's cash flows are identified as cash flows from operating activities, investing activities and financing activities. Refer to the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for further details of the cash inflows and outflows of the Company.

Capital Resources. The Company and its subsidiary Bank are subject to various regulatory capital requirements administered by the federal banking regulators, including a risk-based capital measure. The Federal Reserve establishes capital requirements, including well capitalized standards, for the consolidated financial holding company, and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (the "OCC") has similar requirements for the Company's subsidiary bank. Failure to meet minimum capital requirements can initiate certain mandatory and possibly additional discretionary actions by regulators that, if undertaken, could have a direct material effect on the Company's Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition.

Federal regulators require federally insured depository institutions to meet several minimum capital standards: (1) total capital to risk-weighted assets of 8.0%; (2) tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets of 6.0%; (3) common equity tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets of 4.5%; and (4) tier 1 capital to adjusted total assets of 4.0%. In addition to establishing the minimum regulatory capital requirements, the regulations limit capital distributions and certain discretionary bonus payments to management if the institution does not hold a “capital conservation buffer” consisting of 2.5% of common equity tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets above the amount necessary to meet its minimum risk-based capital requirements. The regulators established a framework for the classification of savings institutions into five categories: well capitalized, adequately capitalized, undercapitalized, significantly undercapitalized, and critically undercapitalized. Generally, an institution is considered well capitalized if it has: a total capital to risk-weighted assets ratio of at least 10.0%, a tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets ratio of at least 8.0%, a common tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets ratio of at least 6.5%, and a tier 1 capital to adjusted total assets ratio of at least 5.0%. As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, each of the Company and the Bank exceeded all capital adequacy requirements to which it is subject.

The following table presents the Company's and the Bank's actual capital amounts and ratios at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 compared to the Federal Reserve Bank minimum capital adequacy requirements and the Federal Reserve Bank requirements for classification as a well-capitalized institution:

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Item 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK


	Actual				Minimum Capital Adequacy Requirements				Minimum Capital Adequacy Requirements with Capital Conservation Buffer				To be Well Capitalized Under Prompt Corrective Action Provisions
	Amount		Ratio		Amount		Ratio		Amount		Ratio		Amount	Ratio
Company	(In thousands, except ratio data)
At March 31, 2021:
Total capital (to risk-weighted assets)	$	1,063,196	18.27	%	$	465,653	8.00	%	$	611,170	10.50	%	N/A	N/A
Tier 1 capital (to risk-weighted assets)	990,742		17.02	%	349,240		6.00	%	494,757		8.50	%	N/A	N/A
Common equity tier 1 capital (to risk-weighted assets)	983,525		16.90	%	261,930		4.50	%	407,447		7.00	%	N/A	N/A
Tier 1 capital (to adjusted total assets)	990,742		11.37	%	348,470		4.00	%	348,470		4.00	%	N/A	N/A

At December 31, 2020:
Total capital (to risk-weighted assets)	$	1,070,361	18.54	%	$	461,766	8.00	%	$	606,068	10.50	%	N/A	N/A
Tier 1 capital (to risk-weighted assets)	988,172		17.29		346,325		6.00		490,627		8.50		N/A	N/A
Common equity tier 1 capital (to risk-weighted assets)	980,995		17.17		259,744		4.50		404,046		7.00		N/A	N/A
Tier 1 capital (to adjusted total assets)	988,172		11.38		350,923		4.00		350,923		4.00		N/A	N/A

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Item 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK


	Actual				Minimum Capital Adequacy Requirements				Minimum Capital Adequacy Requirements with Capital Conservation Buffer				To be Well Capitalized Under Prompt Corrective Action Provisions
	Amount		Ratio		Amount		Ratio		Amount		Ratio		Amount		Ratio
Bank	(In thousands, except ratio data)
At March 31, 2021:
Total capital (to risk-weighted assets)	$	949,990	16.34	%	$	465,022	8.00	%	$	610,342	10.50	%	$	581,278	10.00	%
Tier 1 capital (to risk-weighted assets)	877,536		15.10		348,767		6.00		494,086		8.50		465,022		8.00
Common equity tier 1 capital (to risk-weighted assets)	877,536		15.10		261,575		4.50		406,894		7.00		377,831		6.50
Tier 1 capital (to adjusted total assets)	877,536		10.08		348,352		4.00		348,352		4.00		435,441		5.00

At December 31, 2020:
Total capital (to risk-weighted assets)	$	924,959	16.05	%	$	460,944	8.00	%	$	604,989	10.50	%	$	576,180	10.00	%
Tier 1 capital (to risk-weighted assets)	852,897		14.80		345,708		6.00		489,753		8.50		460,944		8.00
Common equity tier 1 capital (to risk-weighted assets)	852,897		14.80		259,281		4.50		403,326		7.00		374,517		6.50
Tier 1 capital (to adjusted total assets)	852,897		9.72		350,815		4.00		350,815		4.00		438,519		5.00

COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Item 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

An evaluation was performed under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s management, including the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) promulgated under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) as of March 31, 2021. In designing and evaluating the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures, the Company and its management recognize that any controls and procedures, no matter how well-designed and operated, can provide only a reasonable assurance of achieving the desired control objectives, and management necessarily was required to apply its judgment in evaluating and implementing possible controls and procedures. Based on that evaluation, the Company’s management, including the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, concluded that, as of the end of the period covered by this report, the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective.

During the quarter ended March 31, 2021, there were no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

PART II – OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

The Company is involved in various legal actions and claims arising in the normal course of business. In the opinion of management, these legal actions and claims are not expected to have a material adverse impact on the Company’s financial condition.

Item 1A. Risk Factors

For information regarding the Company’s risk factors, refer to the Risk Factors previously disclosed under Item 1A of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. As of March 31, 2021 the risk factors of the Company have not materially changed from those disclosed in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020.

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

The following table reports information regarding repurchases of the Company's common stock during the quarter ended March 31, 2021:


Period	Total Number of Shares (2)	Average Price Paid per Share		Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs (1)	Maximum Number of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs
January 1 - 31, 2021	705,930	$	15.90	705,930	5,163,128
February 1 - 28, 2021	742,609	16.19		742,609	4,420,519
March 1 - 31, 2021	563,846	17.44		550,000	3,870,519
Total	2,012,385	$	16.43	1,998,539

(1) On February 1, 2021, the Company announced that its Board of Directors authorized a new stock repurchase program to acquire up to 5,000,000 shares of the Company's then issued and outstanding common stock, commencing upon the completion of the repurchase of the remaining 869,058 shares under the Company's existing stock repurchase program that was approved in September 2020.
(2) During the three months ended March 31, 2021, 13,846 shares were repurchased pursuant to forfeitures related to the 2019 Equity Incentive Plan and not as part of a share repurchase program.

Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Not Applicable.

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures

Not Applicable.

Item 5. Other Information

None.

Item 6. Exhibits

The exhibits listed in the Exhibit Index (following the signatures section of this report) are included in, or incorporated by reference into this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

Exhibit Index


31.1						Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

31.2						Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

32						Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

101.0						The following materials from the Company’s Quarterly Report to Stockholders on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2021, formatted in inline XBRL (Extensible Business Reporting Language): (i) the Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition, (ii) the Consolidated Statements of Income, (iii) the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income, (iv) the Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholder’s Equity, (v) the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows and (vi) the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

101. INS						The instance document does not appear in the interactive data file because its XBRL tags are embedded within the Inline XBRL document

101. SCH						Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document

101. CAL						Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document

101. DEF						Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document

101. LAB						Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Labels Linkbase Document

101. PRE						Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document

104						Cover page Interactive Data File (embedded within the Inline XBRL document)

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this quarterly report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

Columbia Financial, Inc.

Date:

May 10, 2021

/s/Thomas J. Kemly

Thomas J. Kemly

President and Chief Executive Officer

(Principal Executive Officer)

Date:

May 10, 2021

/s/Dennis E. Gibney

Dennis E. Gibney

Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)