grepcent / static financial knowledge base

Beacon Financial Corp (BBT)

CIK: 0001108134. SIC: 6036 Savings Institutions, Not Federally Chartered. Latest 10-K as of: 2026-03-02.

SIC breadcrumb: Finance, Insurance, And Real Estate > Depository Institutions > SIC 6036 Savings Institutions, Not Federally Chartered

SEC company page: https://www.sec.gov/edgar/browse/?CIK=1108134. Latest filing source: 0001628280-26-013247.

Informational only - descriptive public-record data, not investment advice.

Business

Read BBT's verbatim Item 1 Business section from its latest 10-K: Business.

Risk Factors

Read BBT's verbatim Item 1A Risk Factors from its latest 10-K: Risk Factors.

Selected Fundamentals

MetricValueUnitFYFiled
Revenue832,788,000USD20252026-03-02
Net income90,271,000USD20252026-03-02
Assets23,220,372,000USD20252026-03-02

Financials

Annual standardized facts from SEC companyfacts as of latest extracted filing date 2026-03-02. Source: https://data.sec.gov/api/xbrl/companyfacts/CIK0001108134.json. Derived margins, ratios, and free cash flow are computed from the extracted annual SEC facts.

Download these verified figures (annual + quarterly, with per-value filing provenance): JSON · CSV

Flow metrics use full-year FY periods from 10-K/10-K/A filings; balance-sheet metrics use FY-end instants. Free cash flow = operating cash flow - capital expenditures. Missing metrics are omitted rather than fabricated.

Metric20122013201420152016201720182019202020212022202320242025
Revenue280,439,000355,076,000465,894,000509,513,000409,782,000329,065,000387,257,000577,287,000628,521,000832,788,000
Net income58,670,00055,247,000105,765,00097,450,000-533,017,000118,664,00092,533,00074,999,00068,715,00090,271,000
Diluted EPS1.881.392.291.97-10.602.392.020.850.771.03
Operating cash flow98,142,00078,091,000222,254,000111,525,000227,641,00084,788,000110,739,000116,597,000104,954,000224,444,000
Capital expenditures9,101,00011,256,0009,349,00010,565,0007,208,0001,606,0001,495,00012,357,0004,985,00012,288,000
Dividends paid24,916,00033,241,00040,884,00045,107,00036,564,00024,553,00024,527,00047,926,00048,058,00063,119,000
Share buybacks550,0000.000.000.0052,746,000473,00068,712,000124,519,00023,844,00017,536,000
Assets9,162,542,00011,570,751,00012,212,231,00013,215,970,00012,838,013,00011,554,913,00011,662,864,00012,430,821,00011,905,326,00023,220,372,000
Liabilities8,069,244,00010,074,487,00010,659,313,00011,457,406,00011,650,240,00010,372,478,00010,708,802,00011,418,600,00010,683,387,00020,724,311,000
Stockholders' equity1,093,298,0001,496,264,0001,552,918,0001,758,564,0001,187,773,0001,182,435,000992,125,0001,198,644,0001,221,939,0002,496,061,000
Cash and cash equivalents98,244,00075,539,00071,754,000103,562,000113,075,000248,763,000183,189,000579,829,000543,670,0002,041,745,000
Free cash flow89,041,00066,835,000212,905,000100,960,000220,433,00083,182,000109,244,000104,240,00099,969,000212,156,000

Ratios

ROE and ROA use period-end equity/assets. Liabilities / equity uses total liabilities divided by stockholders' equity. Current ratio uses current assets divided by current liabilities when both are reported.

Metric20122013201420152016201720182019202020212022202320242025
Net margin20.92%15.56%22.70%19.13%-130.07%36.06%23.89%12.99%10.93%10.84%
Return on equity5.37%3.69%6.81%5.54%-44.88%10.04%9.33%6.26%5.62%3.62%
Return on assets0.64%0.48%0.87%0.74%-4.15%1.03%0.79%0.60%0.58%0.39%
Liabilities / equity7.386.736.866.529.818.7710.799.538.748.30

Industry Peer Context

Each number-line places BBT against the min, median, and max of latest reported values among companies in the same SIC industry when at least three peers report that ratio.

Net margin peer context

BBT Net margin versus SIC peer range. Source: grepcent computed from latest SEC companyfacts ratios for SIC industry 6036; peer count 16.BBT Net margin versus SIC peer range. Source: grepcent computed from latest SEC companyfacts ratios for SIC industry 6036; peer count 16.16 SIC peersMin -4.0%Median 17.7%Max 28.8%BBT 10.8%

ROE peer context

BBT ROE versus SIC peer range. Source: grepcent computed from latest SEC companyfacts ratios for SIC industry 6036; peer count 16.BBT ROE versus SIC peer range. Source: grepcent computed from latest SEC companyfacts ratios for SIC industry 6036; peer count 16.16 SIC peersMin -2.2%Median 7.3%Max 13.0%BBT 3.6%

ROA peer context

BBT ROA versus SIC peer range. Source: grepcent computed from latest SEC companyfacts ratios for SIC industry 6036; peer count 16.BBT ROA versus SIC peer range. Source: grepcent computed from latest SEC companyfacts ratios for SIC industry 6036; peer count 16.16 SIC peersMin -0.2%Median 1.0%Max 2.2%BBT 0.4%

Financial Bridges

Waterfall figures reconcile reported SEC companyfacts components. Missing bridges are omitted when required components are not present for the same fiscal year.

Free cash flow = operating cash flow - capital expenditures

BBT FY2025 free cash flow bridge from reported figures.BBT FY2025 free cash flow bridge from reported figures.BBT free cash flow bridgeFY2025: operating cash flow less capital expendituresSource: SEC companyfacts FY2025.Free cash flow bridgeReported amount$0.0B$125.0M$250.0M$224.4MOperating cash flow-$12.3MCapex$212.2MFree cash flow

Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts FY 2025. Operating cash flow: accession 0001628280-26-013247; concept NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities; source concepts us-gaap:NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities | Capital expenditures: accession 0001628280-26-013247; concept PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment; source concepts us-gaap:PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment | Free cash flow: accession 0001628280-26-013247; concept NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities - PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment; source concepts us-gaap:NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities; us-gaap:PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment

Financial Charts

BBT revenue, last 5 periods. Source: SEC companyfacts FY2025.BBT revenue, last 5 periods. Source: SEC companyfacts FY2025.BBT RevenueLatest point: FY2025 = $832.8MSource: SEC companyfacts FY2025.Fiscal yearReported revenue$0.0B$500.0M$1.0BFY2021FY2022FY2023FY2024FY2025

Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-12-31; accession 0001628280-26-013247; filed 2026-03-02. Concept: InterestAndDividendIncomeOperating. Source concepts: us-gaap:InterestAndDividendIncomeOperating.

BBT net income, last 5 periods. Source: SEC companyfacts FY2025.BBT net income, last 5 periods. Source: SEC companyfacts FY2025.BBT Net incomeLatest point: FY2025 = $90.3MSource: SEC companyfacts FY2025.Fiscal yearNet income$0.0B$125.0M$250.0MFY2021FY2022FY2023FY2024FY2025

Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-12-31; accession 0001628280-26-013247; filed 2026-03-02. Concept: NetIncomeLoss. Source concepts: us-gaap:NetIncomeLoss.

BBT diluted eps, last 5 periods. Source: SEC companyfacts FY2025.BBT diluted eps, last 5 periods. Source: SEC companyfacts FY2025.BBT Diluted EPSLatest point: FY2025 = $1.03/shareSource: SEC companyfacts FY2025.Fiscal yearDiluted EPS (USD/share)$0.00/share$2.00/share$4.00/shareFY2021FY2022FY2023FY2024FY2025

Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-12-31; accession 0001628280-26-013247; filed 2026-03-02. Concept: EarningsPerShareDiluted. Source concepts: us-gaap:EarningsPerShareDiluted.

BBT operating cash flow, last 5 periods. Source: SEC companyfacts FY2025.BBT operating cash flow, last 5 periods. Source: SEC companyfacts FY2025.BBT Operating cash flowLatest point: FY2025 = $224.4MSource: SEC companyfacts FY2025.Fiscal yearOperating cash flow$0.0B$125.0M$250.0MFY2021FY2022FY2023FY2024FY2025

Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-12-31; accession 0001628280-26-013247; filed 2026-03-02. Concept: NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities. Source concepts: us-gaap:NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities.

BBT capital expenditures, last 5 periods. Source: SEC companyfacts FY2025.BBT capital expenditures, last 5 periods. Source: SEC companyfacts FY2025.BBT Capital expendituresLatest point: FY2025 = $12.3MSource: SEC companyfacts FY2025.Fiscal yearCapital expenditures$0.0B$125.0M$250.0MFY2021FY2022FY2023FY2024FY2025

Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-12-31; accession 0001628280-26-013247; filed 2026-03-02. Concept: PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment. Source concepts: us-gaap:PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment.

BBT dividends paid, last 5 periods. Source: SEC companyfacts FY2025.BBT dividends paid, last 5 periods. Source: SEC companyfacts FY2025.BBT Dividends paidLatest point: FY2025 = $63.1MSource: SEC companyfacts FY2025.Fiscal yearDividends paid$0.0B$125.0M$250.0MFY2021FY2022FY2023FY2024FY2025

Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-12-31; accession 0001628280-26-013247; filed 2026-03-02. Concept: PaymentsOfDividendsCommonStock. Source concepts: us-gaap:PaymentsOfDividendsCommonStock.

BBT share buybacks, last 5 periods. Source: SEC companyfacts FY2024.BBT share buybacks, last 5 periods. Source: SEC companyfacts FY2024.BBT Share buybacksLatest point: FY2024 = $17.5MSource: SEC companyfacts FY2024.Fiscal yearShare buybacks$0.0B$125.0M$250.0MFY2020FY2021FY2022FY2023FY2024

Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2024 ended 2024-12-31; accession 0001108134-25-000003; filed 2025-03-03. Concept: PaymentsForRepurchaseOfCommonStock. Source concepts: us-gaap:PaymentsForRepurchaseOfCommonStock.

BBT assets, last 5 periods. Source: SEC companyfacts FY2025.BBT assets, last 5 periods. Source: SEC companyfacts FY2025.BBT AssetsLatest point: FY2025 = $23.2BSource: SEC companyfacts FY2025.Fiscal yearAssets$0.0B$15.0B$30.0BFY2021FY2022FY2023FY2024FY2025

Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-12-31; accession 0001628280-26-013247; filed 2026-03-02. Concept: Assets. Source concepts: us-gaap:Assets.

BBT liabilities, last 5 periods. Source: SEC companyfacts FY2025.BBT liabilities, last 5 periods. Source: SEC companyfacts FY2025.BBT LiabilitiesLatest point: FY2025 = $20.7BSource: SEC companyfacts FY2025.Fiscal yearLiabilities$0.0B$15.0B$30.0BFY2021FY2022FY2023FY2024FY2025

Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-12-31; accession 0001628280-26-013247; filed 2026-03-02. Concept: Liabilities. Source concepts: us-gaap:Liabilities.

BBT stockholders' equity, last 5 periods. Source: SEC companyfacts FY2025.BBT stockholders' equity, last 5 periods. Source: SEC companyfacts FY2025.BBT Stockholders' equityLatest point: FY2025 = $2.5BSource: SEC companyfacts FY2025.Fiscal yearStockholders' equity$0.0B$2.0B$4.0BFY2021FY2022FY2023FY2024FY2025

Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-12-31; accession 0001628280-26-013247; filed 2026-03-02. Concept: StockholdersEquity. Source concepts: us-gaap:StockholdersEquity.

BBT cash and cash equivalents, last 5 periods. Source: SEC companyfacts FY2025.BBT cash and cash equivalents, last 5 periods. Source: SEC companyfacts FY2025.BBT Cash and cash equivalentsLatest point: FY2025 = $2.0BSource: SEC companyfacts FY2025.Fiscal yearCash and cash equivalents$0.0B$2.0B$4.0BFY2017FY2018FY2019FY2024FY2025

Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-12-31; accession 0001628280-26-013247; filed 2026-03-02. Concept: CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue. Source concepts: us-gaap:CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue.

BBT free cash flow, last 5 periods. Source: SEC companyfacts FY2025.BBT free cash flow, last 5 periods. Source: SEC companyfacts FY2025.BBT Free cash flowLatest point: FY2025 = $212.2MSource: SEC companyfacts FY2025.Fiscal yearFree cash flow$0.0B$125.0M$250.0MFY2021FY2022FY2023FY2024FY2025

Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-12-31; accession 0001628280-26-013247; filed 2026-03-02. Concept: NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities - PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment. Source concepts: us-gaap:NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities; us-gaap:PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment.

Quarterly

Quarterly standardized facts from SEC companyfacts as of latest extracted filing date 2026-05-11. Source: https://data.sec.gov/api/xbrl/companyfacts/CIK0001108134.json.

Flow metrics use discrete quarter-length periods from 10-Q/10-Q/A filings. Q4 revenue and net income are derived only when annual FY and nine-month YTD facts exist for the same fiscal year; derived Q4 values are labeled. EPS Q4 is not derived.

QuarterEnd DateRevenueNet IncomeDiluted EPSMethod
2022-Q22022-06-300.50reported discrete quarter
2022-Q32022-09-300.42reported discrete quarter
2023-Q12023-03-310.63reported discrete quarter
2023-Q22023-06-30145,425,00023,861,0000.55reported discrete quarter
2023-Q32023-09-30148,021,00019,545,0000.45reported discrete quarter
2023-Q42023-12-31150,537,000-1,445,000derived Q4 = FY annual - nine-month YTD
2024-Q12024-03-31152,006,000-20,188,000-0.47reported discrete quarter
2024-Q22024-06-30154,109,00024,025,0000.57reported discrete quarter
2024-Q32024-09-30157,268,00037,509,0000.88reported discrete quarter
2024-Q42024-12-31150,555,00019,657,000derived Q4 = FY annual - nine-month YTD
2025-Q12025-03-31148,330,00025,719,0000.56reported discrete quarter
2025-Q22025-06-30151,469,00030,366,0000.66reported discrete quarter
2025-Q32025-09-30216,161,000-50,240,000-0.57reported discrete quarter
2025-Q42025-12-31308,827,00099,385,000derived Q4 = FY annual - nine-month YTD
2026-Q12026-03-31292,384,00046,217,0000.55reported discrete quarter

Quarterly Charts

BBT quarterly revenue, last 12 periods. Source: SEC companyfacts 2026-Q1.BBT quarterly revenue, last 12 periods. Source: SEC companyfacts 2026-Q1.BBT Quarterly RevenueLatest point: 2026-Q1 = $292.4MSource: SEC companyfacts 2026-Q1.Fiscal quarterQuarterly Revenue$0.0B$250.0M$500.0M2023-Q22023-Q32023-Q42024-Q12024-Q22024-Q32024-Q42025-Q12025-Q22025-Q32025-Q42026-Q1

Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2026 ended 2026-03-31; accession 0001628280-26-033186; filed 2026-05-11. Concept: InterestAndDividendIncomeOperating. Source concepts: us-gaap:InterestAndDividendIncomeOperating.

BBT quarterly net income, last 12 periods. Source: SEC companyfacts 2026-Q1.BBT quarterly net income, last 12 periods. Source: SEC companyfacts 2026-Q1.BBT Quarterly Net incomeLatest point: 2026-Q1 = $46.2MSource: SEC companyfacts 2026-Q1.Fiscal quarterQuarterly Net income-$250.0M$0.0B$250.0M2023-Q22023-Q32023-Q42024-Q12024-Q22024-Q32024-Q42025-Q12025-Q22025-Q32025-Q42026-Q1

Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2026 ended 2026-03-31; accession 0001628280-26-033186; filed 2026-05-11. Concept: NetIncomeLoss. Source concepts: us-gaap:NetIncomeLoss.

BBT quarterly diluted eps, last 12 periods. Source: SEC companyfacts 2026-Q1.BBT quarterly diluted eps, last 12 periods. Source: SEC companyfacts 2026-Q1.BBT Quarterly Diluted EPSLatest point: 2026-Q1 = $0.55/shareSource: SEC companyfacts 2026-Q1.Fiscal quarterQuarterly Diluted EPS (USD/share)-$1.00/share$0.00/share$1.50/share2022-Q22022-Q32023-Q12023-Q22023-Q32024-Q12024-Q22024-Q32025-Q12025-Q22025-Q32026-Q1

Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2026 ended 2026-03-31; accession 0001628280-26-033186; filed 2026-05-11. Concept: EarningsPerShareDiluted. Source concepts: us-gaap:EarningsPerShareDiluted.

Macro Cross-References

Latest quarter (10-Q)

Latest 10-Q source: 0001628280-26-033186.

Extracted structurally from real Item 2 body heading to real Item 3/4 boundary. Confidence: high. Filing date: 2026-05-11. Report date: 2026-03-31.

Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements contained in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q that are not historical facts may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and are intended to be covered by the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. These statements, which are based on certain assumptions and describe the Company’s future plans, strategies and expectations, can generally be identified by the use of the words “may,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “would,” “plan,” “potential,” “estimate,” “project,” “believe,” “intend,” “anticipate,” “expect,” “target” and similar expressions. These statements include, among others, statements regarding the Company’s intent, belief or expectations with respect to economic conditions, trends affecting the Company’s financial condition or results of operations, and the Company’s exposure to market, liquidity, interest-rate and credit risk.

Forward-looking statements are based on the current assumptions underlying the statements and other information with respect to the beliefs, plans, objectives, goals, expectations, anticipations, estimates and intentions of management and the financial condition, results of operations, future performance and business are only expectations of future results. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in the Company’s forward-looking statements are reasonable, the Company’s actual results could differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of, among other important factors, changes in interest rates; general economic conditions (including the impact of ongoing armed conflicts, tariffs, inflation, and concerns about liquidity) on a national basis or in the local markets in which the Company operates; turbulence in the capital and debt markets; competitive pressures from other financial institutions; changes in consumer behavior due to changing political, business and economic conditions, or legislative or regulatory initiatives; changes in the value of securities and other assets in the Company’s investment portfolio; increases in loan and lease default and charge-off rates; the adequacy of allowances for loan and lease losses; decreases in deposit levels that necessitate increases in borrowing to fund loans and investments; the diversion of management’s attention from ongoing business operations and opportunities; operational risks including, but not limited to, cybersecurity incidents, fraud, natural disasters, and future pandemics; changes in regulation; the possibility that future credit losses may be higher than currently expected due to changes in economic assumptions and adverse economic developments; the risk that goodwill and intangibles recorded in the Company’s financial statements will become impaired; and changes in assumptions used in making such forward-looking statements; and the other risks and uncertainties detailed in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025 and other filings submitted to the SEC. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect circumstances or events that occur after the date the forward-looking statements are made.

Introduction

Beacon Financial Corporation, a Delaware corporation, is the holding company for Beacon Bank & Trust and its subsidiaries and Clarendon Private.

The Company offers a wide range of commercial, business and retail banking services, including a full complement of cash management products, foreign exchange services, on-line and mobile banking services, consumer and residential loans and investment advisory services. Clarendon Private is a registered investment advisor with the SEC. Through Clarendon Private, the Company offers a wide range of wealth management services to individuals, families, endowments and foundations to help these clients meet their long-term financial goals.

As a full-service financial institution with 144 banking offices throughout New England and New York, the Bank and its subsidiaries focus their efforts on developing and deepening long-term banking relationships with qualified customers through a full complement of products, excellent customer service, and strong risk management.

The competition for loans and leases and deposits remains strong, with growth and pricing influenced by the Federal Reserve's interest rate-setting actions. Management's scenario analysis of deposit sensitivity to the current competitive rate environment suggests further deposit mix migration and increased sensitivity to interest rates.

As the interest rate environment resets to a more normal, upward-sloping yield curve with shorter-term interest rates lower than longer term interest rates, management expects the net interest margin to increase modestly. This is due to deposit and wholesale funding costs repricing at lower rates, while loans do not reprice at the same magnitude, as well as the accretions from the purchase accounting marks. If both short- and long-term interest rates fall, net interest income models, using a projected flat balance sheet with stable deposit balances, forecast that a parallel decrease in rates will have a negative impact on

44

Table of Contents

the Company's net interest income, net interest spread, and net interest margin. While the Company's current deposit sensitivity rate is approximately 40%, shifting to a more asset sensitive balance sheet could have additional pressure on interest margins.

As discussed above, changes in interest rates could also precipitate a change in the mix and volume of the Company's deposits and loans. The future operating results of the Company will depend on its ability to maintain or increase the current net interest income, manage credit risk, increase sources of non-interest income, while managing non-interest expenses.

The Company and the Bank are supervised, examined and regulated by the FRB. As a Massachusetts-chartered trust company, Beacon Bank & Trust is subject to supervision, examination and regulation by the Massachusetts Division of Banks. The FDIC insures the Bank's deposits up to $250,000 per depositor.

The Company’s common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “BBT.”

Executive Overview

Balance Sheet

Total assets decreased $1.0 billion, or 17.1% on an annualized basis, to $22.2 billion as of March 31, 2026 from $23.2 billion as of December 31, 2025. The decrease was primarily driven by the reduction in cash balances due to timing fluctuations in customer payroll deposits. Cash, cash equivalents and available for sale investment securities decreased $0.9 billion, or 96.4% on an annualized basis, to $2.8 billion as of March 31, 2026 from $3.7 billion as of December 31, 2025. This decreased the Company's on balance sheet liquidity from 16.1% of total assets as of December 31, 2025 to 12.7% of total assets as of March 31, 2026.

Total loans and leases decreased $105.4 million, or 2.3% on an annualized basis, to $17.9 billion as of March 31, 2026 from $18.0 billion as of December 31, 2025. The Company's commercial loan portfolios, which are composed of commercial real estate loans and commercial loans and leases, represented 77.9% of total loans and leases as of March 31, 2026 and represented 77.4% of total loans and leases as of December 31, 2025.

Total investment securities increased $29.9 million, or 7.1% on an annualized basis, to $1.7 billion as of March 31, 2026 from $1.7 billion as of December 31, 2025.

Cash and cash equivalents decreased $0.9 billion, or 182.0% on an annualized basis, to $1.1 billion as of March 31, 2026 from $2.0 billion as of December 31, 2025. The decrease was primarily due to the fluctuation within payroll deposits.

Total deposits decreased $1.2 billion, or 25.1% on an annualized basis, to $18.3 billion as of March 31, 2026 from $19.5 billion as of December 31, 2025, consisting of a $276.0 million decrease in customer deposits, a $664.9 million decrease in payroll deposits, and a $281.5 million decrease in brokered deposits. The decline in customer deposits was driven largely by seasonal first quarter factors such as tax payments, with additional movement concentrated in a small number of rate‑sensitive, higher‑cost accounts. Core consumer and relationship-based deposits remain stable. Core deposits, which include demand checking, NOW, non-payroll money market and savings accounts, totaled $12.9 billion, or 70.3% of total deposits, as of March 31, 2026, a decrease of $0.2 billion from $13.1 billion, or 67.0% of total deposits, as of December 31, 2025. Payroll deposits totaled $1.2 billion, or 6.6% of total deposits as of March 31, 2026, a decrease of $664.9 million, or 141.6% on an annualized basis, from $1.9 billion, or 9.6% of total deposits as of December 31, 2025. Certificate of deposit balances totaled $4.1 billion, or 22.3% of total deposits as of March 31, 2026, a decrease of $0.1 billion, or 6.8% on an annualized basis, from $4.2 billion, or 21.3% of total deposits as of December 31, 2025. Brokered deposits totaled $128.8 million, or 0.7% of total deposits as of March 31, 2026, a decrease of $281.5 million, or 274.4% on an annualized basis, from $410.4 million, or 2.1% of total deposits as of December 31, 2025.

Total borrowed funds increased $284.1 million, or 144.2% on an annualized basis, to $1.1 billion as of March 31, 2026 from $0.8 billion as of December 31, 2025.

Asset Quality

Nonperforming assets as of March 31, 2026 totaled $151.2 million, or 0.68% of total assets, compared to $116.7 million, or 0.50% of total assets, as of December 31, 2025. Net charge-offs for the three months ended March 31, 2026 were $13.6 million, or 0.30% of average loans and leases on an annualized basis, compared to $7.6 million, or 0.31% of average loans and leases on an annualized basis, for the three months ended March 31, 2025.

The ratio of the allowance for loan and lease losses to total loans and leases was 1.36% as of March 31, 2026, compared to 1.40% as of December 31, 2025.

The ratio of the allowance for loan and lease losses to nonaccrual loans and leases was 164.44% as of March 31, 2026, compared to 221.49% as of December 31, 2025.

45

Table of Contents

Capital Strength

The Company is a "well-capitalized" bank holding company as defined in the FRB's Regulation Y. The Company's common equity Tier 1 capital ratio was 11.24% as of March 31, 2026, compared to 10.95% as of December 31, 2025. The Company's Tier 1 leverage ratio was 9.59% as of March 31, 2026, compared to 9.25% as of December 31, 2025. As of March 31, 2026, the Company's Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio was 11.40%, compared to 11.12% as of December 31, 2025. The Company's Total risk-based capital ratio was 13.27% as of March 31, 2026, compared to 13.01% as of December 31, 2025.

The Company's ratio of stockholders' equity to total assets was 11.27% and 10.75% as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, respectively. The Company's ratio of tangible stockholders' equity to tangible assets (non-GAAP) was 9.07% and 8.62% as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, respectively.

Net Income

For the three months ended March 31, 2026, the Company reported a net income of $46.2 million, or $0.55 per basic and diluted share, an increase of $27.1 million, or 142.0%, from net income of $19.1 million, or $0.21 per basic and diluted share, for the three months ended March 31, 2025. This increase in net income is primarily the result of an increase in net interest income of $104.9 millio

[Excerpt truncated for page length; source filing is linked above.]

Latest 10-K MD&A

Extracted structurally from real Item 7 body heading to real Item 7A/8 boundary. Confidence: high. Filing date: 2026-03-02. Report date: 2025-12-31.

Item 7.    Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Introduction

Beacon Financial Corporation, a Delaware corporation, is the holding company for Beacon Bank & Trust and its subsidiaries and Clarendon Private.

The Company offers a wide range of commercial, business and retail banking services, including a full complement of cash management products, foreign exchange services, on-line and mobile banking services, consumer and residential loans and investment advisory services. Clarendon Private is a registered investment advisor with the SEC. Through Clarendon Private and the Trust and Investments Division of the Bank, the Company offers a wide range of wealth management services to individuals, families, endowments and foundations to help these clients meet their long-term financial goals.

As a full-service financial institution with 147 banking offices throughout New England and New York, the Bank and its subsidiaries focus their efforts on developing and deepening long-term banking relationships with qualified customers through a full complement of products, excellent customer service, and strong risk management.

The competition for loans and leases and deposits remains strong, with growth and pricing influenced by the FRB's interest rate-setting actions. Management's scenario analysis of deposit sensitivity to the current rate environment and customer demand for non-depository investment alternatives suggests further deposit mix migration and increased sensitivity to interest rates.

As the interest rate environment resets to a more normal, upward-sloping yield curve with shorter-term interest rates lower than longer term interest rates, management expects the net interest margin to increase modestly. This is due to deposit and wholesale funding costs repricing at lower rates, while loans do not reprice at the same magnitude, as well as the accretions from the purchase accounting marks. If both short- and long-term interest rates fall, net interest income models, using a projected flat balance sheet with stable deposit balances, forecast that a parallel decrease in rates will have a negative impact on the Company's net interest income, net interest spread, and net interest margin. While the Company's current asset sensitivity rate is approximately 40%, shifting to a more asset sensitive balance sheet could have additional pressure on interest margins.

As discussed above, changes in interest rates could also precipitate a change in the mix and volume of the Company's deposits and loans. The future operating results of the Company will depend on its ability to maintain or increase the current net interest income, manage credit risk, increase sources of non-interest income, while managing non-interest expenses.

The Company’s common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “BBT.”

Executive Overview

Balance Sheet

Total assets increased $11.3 billion, or 95.0%, to $23.2 billion as of December 31, 2025 from $11.9 billion as of December 31, 2024. The increase was primarily due to the assets assumed in the Transaction. The Transaction created a $23 billion Northeast franchise by combining Legacy Berkshire’s stable, more rural funding base with Legacy Brookline’s commercial lending focus in metro markets. The highly-complementary geographic footprints had minimal branch overlap ensuring minimal market disruption while also providing business diversification, fee income opportunities and improved competitive positioning. The Transaction also created meaningful near-term cost synergies while positioning the Company to benefit from future economies of scale.

Total loans and leases increased $8.3 billion, or 84.4%, to $18.0 billion as of December 31, 2025 from $9.8 billion as of December 31, 2024. The increase was primarily due to the loans assumed in the Transaction partially offset by the sales of $332.6 million of purchased mortgage loans acquired in the Transaction. The Company's commercial loan portfolios, which are comprised of commercial real estate loans and commercial loans and leases, totaled $14.0 billion, or 77.4% of total loans and leases as of December 31, 2025, an increase of $5.7 billion, or 69.8%, from $8.2 billion, or 84.1% of total loans and leases, as of December 31, 2024.

Total investment securities increased $0.8 billion, or 88.7%, to $1.7 billion as of December 31, 2025 from $0.9 billion as of December 31, 2024, primarily due to investment securities assumed in the Transaction partially offset by the sale of $176.4 million of the Legacy Berkshire's investment portfolio during the third quarter.

Cash and cash equivalents increased $1.5 billion, or 275.5%, to $2.0 billion as of December 31, 2025 from $0.5 billion as of December 31, 2024. The increase was primarily due to cash and equivalents assumed in the Transaction and an increased payroll deposit balance at December 31, 2025.

25

Table of Contents

Total deposits increased $10.6 billion, or 119.2%, to $19.5 billion as of December 31, 2025 from $8.9 billion as of December 31, 2024, primarily due to the deposits assumed in the Transaction. Core deposits, which include demand checking, NOW, non-payroll money market and savings accounts, totaled $13.1 billion, or 67.0% of total deposits, as of December 31, 2025, an increase of $6.9 billion, or 112.6%, from $6.1 billion, or 69.1% of total deposits, as of December 31, 2024. Payroll deposits totaled $1.9 billion as of December 31, 2025, all of which was assumed in the Transaction. Certificate of deposit balances totaled $4.2 billion, or 21.3% of total deposits, as of December 31, 2025, an increase of $2.3 billion, or 120.5%, from $1.9 billion, or 21.2% of total deposits, as of December 31, 2024. Brokered deposit balances totaled $0.4 billion, or 2.1% of total deposits as of December 31, 2025, a decrease of $0.5 billion, or 52.8%, from $0.9 billion, or 9.8% of total deposits, as of December 31, 2024.

Total borrowed funds decreased $731.5 million, or 48.1%, to $788.4 million as of December 31, 2025 from $1.5 billion as of December 31, 2024 as combined liquidity as a result of the Transaction and the increase in deposits allowed for reduction in borrowings.

Asset Quality

Nonperforming assets as of December 31, 2025 totaled $116.7 million, or 0.50% of total assets, compared to $70.5 million, or 0.59% of total assets, as of December 31, 2024. Total net charge-offs for the year ended December 31, 2025 were $37.6 million, or 0.30% of average loans and leases, compared to $28.2 million, or 0.29% of average loans and leases, for the year ended December 31, 2024. The increase of $46.2 million in nonperforming assets was primarily driven by the Transaction.

The ratio of the allowance for loan and lease losses to total loans and leases was 1.40% as of December 31, 2025, compared to 1.28% as of December 31, 2024.

The ratio of the allowance for loan and lease losses to nonaccrual loans and leases was 221.49% as of December 31, 2025, compared to 180.37% as of December 31, 2024.

Capital Strength

The Company is a "well-capitalized" bank holding company as defined in the FRB's Regulation Y. The Company's common equity Tier 1 capital ratio was 10.95% as of December 31, 2025, compared to 10.46% as of December 31, 2024. The Company's Tier 1 leverage ratio was 9.25% as of December 31, 2025, compared to 9.06% as of December 31, 2024. As of December 31, 2025, the Company's Tier 1 risk-based ratio was 11.12%, compared to 10.56% as of December 31, 2024. The Company's total risk-based ratio was 13.01% as of December 31, 2025, compared to 12.42% as of December 31, 2024.

The Company's ratio of stockholders' equity to total assets was 10.75% and 10.26% as of December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively. The Company's tangible equity ratio was 8.62% and 8.27% as of December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively.

Net Income

For the year ended December 31, 2025, the Company reported net income of $90.3 million, or $1.03 per basic and diluted share, an increase of $21.6 million, or 31.4%, from $68.7 million, or $0.77 per basic and diluted share for the year ended December 31, 2024. The increase in net income is primarily the result of an increase in net interest income of $173.5 million and an increase in non-interest income of $24.3 million, partially offset by an increase in non-interest expense of $147.9 million driven by merger costs, an increase in the provision for credit losses on loans of $19.4 million, and an increase in the provision for income taxes of $8.6 million.

The return on average assets was 0.59% for the year ended December 31, 2025, compared to 0.60% for the year ended December 31, 2024. The return on average stockholders' equity was 5.44% for the year ended December 31, 2025, compared to 5.67% for the year ended December 31, 2024.

Net interest margin was 3.56% for the year ended December 31, 2025, up from 3.06% for the year ended December 31, 2024. The increase in net interest margin is a result of a decrease of 54 basis points in the Company's cost of interest bearing liabilities to 3.05% in 2025 from 3.59% in 2024, and an increase in the yield on interest-earning assets of 4 basis points to 5.87% in 2025 from 5.83% in 2024.

Results for 2025 included a provision for credit losses of $41.4 million, as discussed in the "Allowance for Credit Losses—Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses" section below.

Non-interest income increased $24.3 million to $49.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2025 from $25.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2024. The increase was driven by four months of combined Company activity in 2025.

26

Table of Contents

Non-interest expense increased $147.9 million to $389.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2025 from $241.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2024. The increase was largely attributable to an increase of $57.5 million in merger and restructuring expense and increases in all other non-interest expense categories for the four months of combined Company activity in 2025.

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

The accounting policies described below are considered critical to understanding the Company's financial condition and operating results. Such accounting policies are considered to be especially important because they involve a higher degree of complexity and require management to make difficult and subjective judgments which often require assumptions or estimates about matters that are inherently uncertain. The use of different judgments, assumptions and estimates could result in material differences in the Company's operating results or financial condition.

Allowance for Credit Losses

Description. The allowance for credit losses represents management's estimate of expected losses over the life of the loan and lease portfolio. The allowance for credit losses consists of the allowance for loan and lease losses and reserve for unfunded commitments, which are classified as a contra-asset and liability within other liabilities, respectively, on the consolidated balance sheets. Additions to the allowance for credit losses are made by charges to the provision for credit losses. Losses on loans and leases are deducted from the allowance when all or a portion of a loan or lease is considered uncollectible. The determination of the loans on which full collectability is not reasonably assured, the estimates of the fair value of the underlying collateral, and the assessment of economic and other conditions are subject to assumptions and judgments by management. Valuation allowances could differ materially as a result of changes in, or different interpretations of, these assumptions and judgments.

Management evaluates the adequacy of the allowance on a quarterly basis and reviews its conclusion as to the amount to be established with the Audit Committee and the Board of Directors.

Judgments and Uncertainties. In estimating the allowance for credit losses, the Company relies on models and economic forecasts developed by external parties as the primary driver of the allowance for credit losses. These models and forecasts are based on nationwide sets of data. As a result, the Company has calibrated the output of these models to match the performance of a relevant set of peer institutions during the development dataset in order to make the results more relevant to the Company. Additionally, economic forecasts can change significantly over an economic cycle and have a significant level of uncertainty associated with them. The performance of the models is dependent on the variables used in the models being reasonable proxies for the portfolio’s performance; however, these variables may not capture all sources of risk within the portfolio. As a result, management reviews the results and makes qualitative adjustments to the models to capture limitations of the models as necessary. Such qualitative factors may include adjustments to better capture the risk of specialty lending portfolios, the imprecision associated with the economic forecasts, and the ability of the models to capture emerging risks within the portfolio that may not be represented in the historical dataset. These judgments are thoroughly evaluated through management’s review process, and revised on a quarterly basis to account for changes in the facts and circumstances of the portfolio.

Effect If Actual Results Differ From Assumptions. The allowance for credit losses is a reflection of the Company’s best estimate of loss based on a forecast of future conditions as of a point in time. Conditions in the future may vary from those forecasts, causing realized losses to be either higher or lower than forecasted, which will result in either additional provisions from income or a benefit to income based on the performance of the portfolio.

Business Combinations

Business combinations are generally accounted for under the acquisition method of accounting whereby assets acquired and liabilities assumed in business combinations are recorded at their estimated fair value as of the acquisition date. The determination of fair value may involve the use of internal or third-party valuation specialists to assist in the determination of the fair value of certain assets and liabilities at the acquisition date, including loans and leases and core deposit intangible. The excess of the cost of acquisition over these fair values is recognized as goodwill. A description of the valuation methodologies used to estimate the fair values of the significant assets acquired and liabilities assumed can be found in Note 2, "Business Combinations" within the notes to the consolidated financial statements.

Recent Accounting Developments

In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-09, "Income Taxes (Topic 740): Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures" to enhance the annual income tax disclosure requirements. This update is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2024. The Company adopted ASU 2023-09 as of January 1, 2025. The adoption did not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.

27

Table of Contents

In November 2025, the FASB issued ASU 2025-08, "Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326): Purchased Loans". This ASU aligns the initial recognition of the allowance for loan losses on purchased loans between PCD and non‑PCD assets by applying the gross‑up approach previously required only for PCD loans. The Company elected to adopt this ASU, effective January 1, 2025, and applied it to the Transaction completed in the third quarter, as permitted under the guidance.

See Note 1, “Basis of Presentation” in the notes to the consolidated financial statements for additional information regarding recent accounting developments.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures and Reconciliation to GAAP

In addition to evaluating the Company’s results of operations in accordance with GAAP, management periodically supplements this evaluation with an analysis of certain non-GAAP financial measures, such as the operating earnings metrics, the return on average tangible assets, return on average tangible equity, the tangible stockholders' equity, tangible equity ratio, tangible book value per share and dividend payout ratio. Management believes that these non-GAAP financial measures provide information useful to investors in understanding the Company’s underlying operating performance and trends, and facilitates comparisons with the performance assessment of financial performance, including non-interest expense control, while the tangible equity ratio and tangible book value per share are used to analyze the relative strength of the Company’s capital position.

The methodologies used by the Company for determining the non-GAAP financial measures discussed above may differ from those used by other financial institutions.

Operating Earnings

Operating earnings exclude the after-tax impact of securities gains, the Day 1 CECL provision and merger and restructuring expense. By excluding such items, the Company's results can be measured and assessed on a more consistent basis from period to period. Items excluded from operating earnings are also excluded when calculating the operating return and operating efficiency ratios.

The following table summarizes the Company's operating earnings and operating earnings per share ("EPS") for the periods indicated:

Year Ended December 31,
20252024202320222021
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)
Net income, as reported$90,271$68,715$74,999$109,744$115,440
Less:
Security (losses) gains (after-tax)1,361252(28)
Add:
Merger Day 1 CECL provision (after tax) (1)6,23913,372
Merger and restructuring expense (after-tax) (2)45,7433,6975,9181,763
Operating earnings$142,253$72,412$79,556$111,255$115,468
Earnings per share, as reported$1.03$0.77$0.85$1.42$1.48
Less:
Security gains (after-tax)0.02
Add:
Merger Day 1 CECL provision (after tax) (1)0.070.15
Merger and restructuring expense (after-tax) (2)0.520.040.070.02
Operating earnings per share$1.62$0.81$1.05$1.44$1.48

_________________________________________________________________________

(1) The 2025 Merger Day1 CECL provision on unfunded commitments was related to the Transaction. The 2023 Merger Day1 CECL provision was related to the acquisition of PCSB in the first quarter of 2023.

(2) The 2025 Merger and restructuring expense was related to the Transaction The 2024 Merger and restructuring expense was related to a non-recurring restructuring charge due to the exit of the specialty vehicle business at Eastern Funding. The 2023 and 2022 Merger and restructuring expense was related to the acquisition of PCSB in the first quarter of 2023.

28

Table of Contents

The following table summarizes the Company's operating return on average assets, operating return on average tangible assets, operating return on average stockholders' equity and operating return on average tangible stockholders' equity for the periods indicated:

Year Ended December 31,
20252024202320222021
(Dollars in Thousands)
Operating earnings$142,253$72,412$92,928$111,255$115,468
Average total assets$15,230,648$11,473,424$11,214,371$8,623,403$8,518,200
Less: Average goodwill and average identified intangible assets, net354,267262,011270,637162,447163,122
Average tangible assets$14,876,381$11,211,413$10,943,734$8,460,956$8,355,078
Return on average assets0.59%0.60%0.67%1.27%1.36%
Less:
Security gains (after-tax)%%0.01%%%
Add:
Merger Day 1 CECL provision (after tax)0.04%%0.12%%%
Merger and restructuring expense (after-tax)0.30%0.03%0.05%0.02%%
Operating return on average assets0.93%0.63%0.83%1.29%1.36%
Return on average tangible assets0.61%0.61%0.69%1.30%1.38%
Less:
Security gains (after-tax)%%0.01%%%
Add:
Merger Day 1 CECL provision (after tax)0.04%%0.12%%%
Merger and restructuring expense (after-tax)0.31%0.03%0.05%0.02%%
Operating return on average tangible assets0.96%0.64%0.85%1.32%1.38%
Average total stockholders' equity$1,658,138$1,211,036$1,168,106$984,237$967,538
Less: Average goodwill and average identified intangible assets, net354,267262,011270,637162,447163,122
Average tangible stockholders' equity$1,303,871$949,025$897,469$821,790$804,416
Return on average stockholders' equity5.44%5.67%6.42%11.15%11.93%
Less:
Security gains (after-tax)%%0.12%0.03%%
Add:
Merger Day 1 CECL provision (after tax)0.38%%1.14%%%
Merger and restructuring expense (after-tax)2.76%0.26%0.51%0.18%%
Operating return on average stockholders' equity8.58%5.93%7.95%11.30%11.93%
Return on average tangible stockholders' equity6.92%7.24%8.36%13.35%14.35%
Less:
Security gains (after-tax)%%0.15%0.03%%
Add:
Merger Day 1 CECL provision (after tax)0.48%%1.49%%%

29

Table of Contents

Year Ended December 31,
20252024202320222021
(Dollars in Thousands)
Merger and restructuring expense (after-tax)3.51%0.33%0.66%0.21%%
Operating return on average tangible stockholders' equity10.91%7.57%10.36%13.53%14.35%

The following table summarizes the Company’s return on average tangible assets and return on average tangible stockholders’ equity for the periods indicated:

Year Ended December 31,
20252024202320222021
(Dollars in Thousands)
Net income, as reported$90,271$68,715$74,999$109,744$115,440
Average total assets$15,230,648$11,473,424$11,214,371$8,623,403$8,518,200
Less: Average goodwill and average identified intangible assets, net354,267262,011270,637162,447163,122
Average tangible assets$14,876,381$11,211,413$10,943,734$8,460,956$8,355,078
Return on average tangible assets0.61%0.61%0.69%1.30%1.38%
Average total stockholders' equity$1,658,138$1,211,036$1,168,106$984,237$967,538
Less: Average goodwill and average identified intangible assets, net354,267262,011270,637162,447163,122
Average tangible stockholders' equity$1,303,871$949,025$897,469$821,790$804,416
Return on average tangible stockholders' equity6.92%7.24%8.36%13.35%14.35%

The following table summarizes the Company's tangible equity ratio for the periods indicated:

At December 31,
20252024202320222021
(Dollars in Thousands)
Total stockholders' equity$2,496,061$1,221,939$1,198,644$992,125$995,342
Less: Goodwill and identified intangible assets, net541,175258,683265,429162,208162,703
Tangible stockholders' equity$1,954,886$963,256$933,215$829,917$832,639
Total assets$23,220,372$11,905,326$11,382,256$9,185,836$8,602,622
Less: Goodwill and identified intangible assets, net541,175258,683265,429162,208162,703
Tangible assets$22,679,197$11,646,643$11,116,827$9,023,628$8,439,919
Tangible equity ratio8.62%8.27%8.39%9.20%9.87%

30

Table of Contents

The following table summarizes the Company's tangible book value per share for the periods indicated:

Year Ended December 31,
20252024202320222021
(Dollars in Thousands)
Tangible stockholders' equity$1,954,886$963,256$933,215$829,917$832,639
Common shares issued89,576,40396,998,07596,998,07585,177,17285,177,172
Less:
Treasury shares5,545,5117,019,3847,354,3997,731,4457,037,464
Unallocated ESOP24,660
Unvested restricted stock214,806880,248749,099601,495500,098
Common shares outstanding83,816,08689,098,44388,894,57776,844,23277,614,950
Tangible book value per share$23.32$10.81$10.50$10.80$10.73

The following table summarizes the Company's dividend payout ratio for the periods indicated:

Year Ended December 31,
20252024202320222021
(Dollars in Thousands)
Dividends paid$63,119$48,058$47,926$40,077$37,463
Net income, as reported$90,271$68,715$74,999$109,744$115,440
Dividend payout ratio69.92%69.94%63.90%36.52%32.45%

31

Table of Contents

Financial Condition

Loans and Leases

The following table summarizes the Company's portfolio of loan and lease receivables as of the dates indicated:

At December 31,
20252024202320222021
BalancePercent of TotalBalancePercent of TotalBalancePercent of TotalBalancePercent of TotalBalancePercent of Total
(Dollars in Thousands)
Commercial real estate loans:
Commercial real estate$7,235,39740.1%$4,027,26541.1%$4,047,28842.0%$3,046,74639.9%$2,842,79139.6%
Multi-family mortgage2,155,98012.0%1,387,79614.2%1,415,19114.7%1,150,59715.1%1,099,81815.4%
Construction620,7173.4%301,0533.1%302,0503.1%206,8052.7%160,4312.2%
Total commercial real estate loans10,012,09455.5%5,716,11458.4%5,764,52959.8%4,404,14857.7%4,103,04057.2%
Commercial loans and leases:
Commercial2,784,15215.4%1,211,71412.4%1,029,02010.7%799,91410.5%781,52511.0%
Equipment financing1,163,2116.5%1,294,95013.2%1,370,64814.2%1,216,58515.9%1,105,61115.5%
Total commercial loans and leases3,947,36321.9%2,506,66425.6%2,399,66824.9%2,016,49926.4%1,887,13626.5%
Consumer loans:
Residential mortgage3,233,42517.9%1,114,73211.4%1,082,80411.2%844,61411.0%799,73711.2%
Home equity695,3073.9%377,4113.9%344,1823.6%322,6224.2%324,1564.5%
Other consumer141,3630.8%64,3670.7%50,4060.5%56,5050.7%40,3880.6%
Total consumer loans4,070,09522.6%1,556,51016.0%1,477,39215.3%1,223,74115.9%1,164,28116.3%
Total loans and leases18,029,552100.0%9,779,288100.0%9,641,589100.0%7,644,388100.0%7,154,457100.0%
Allowance for loan and lease losses(252,839)(125,083)(117,522)(98,482)(99,084)
Net loans and leases$17,776,713$9,654,205$9,524,067$7,545,906$7,055,373

The following table sets forth the growth in the Company’s loan and lease portfolios during the year ending December 31, 2025:

At December 31, 2025At December 31, 2024Dollar ChangePercent Change (Annualized)
(Dollars in Thousands)
Commercial real estate$10,012,094$5,716,114$4,295,98075.2%
Commercial3,947,3632,506,6641,440,69957.5%
Consumer4,070,0951,556,5102,513,585161.5%
Total loans and leases$18,029,552$9,779,288$8,250,26484.4%
Total core loans and leases$18,029,552$9,779,288$8,250,26484.4%

32

Table of Contents

The following table presents the maturity distribution of the Company's loan portfolio as of December 31, 2025.

At December 31, 2025
1 Year or LessAfter 1-5 YearsAfter 5-15 YearsAfter 15 YearsTotal
(Dollars in Thousands)
Commercial real estate$5,271,271$3,657,289$1,068,150$15,384$10,012,094
Commercial1,834,4731,523,347510,72978,8143,947,363
Consumer666,343927,898607,6381,868,2164,070,095
Total$7,772,087$6,108,534$2,186,517$1,962,414$18,029,552

The following table presents the distribution of the Company's loans that were due after one year between fixed and variable interest rates as of December 31, 2025.

At December 31, 2025
FixedVariableTotal
(Dollars in Thousands)
Commercial real estate$2,613,565$2,127,258$4,740,823
Commercial1,239,657873,2332,112,890
Consumer1,881,7851,521,9673,403,752
Total$5,735,007$4,522,458$10,257,465

The Company's loan portfolio consists primarily of first mortgage loans secured by commercial, multi-family and residential real estate properties located in the Company's primary lending area, loans to business entities, including commercial lines of credit, loans to condominium associations and loans and leases used to finance equipment used by small businesses. The Company also provides financing for construction and development projects, home equity and other consumer loans.

The Company employs seasoned commercial lenders and retail bankers who rely on community and business contacts as well as referrals from customers, attorneys and other professionals to generate loans and deposits. Existing borrowers are also an important source of business since many of them have more than one loan outstanding with the Company. The Company's ability to originate loans depends on the strength of the economy, trends in interest rates, and levels of customer demand and market competition.

The Company's current policy is that the total credit exposure to one obligor relationship may not exceed $90.0 million unless approved by the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Credit Officer, or Management Loan Committee. As of December 31, 2025, there was one borrower with commitments over $90.0 million. The total of those commitments was $94.9 million or 0.8% of total loans and commitments as of December 31, 2025. As of December 31, 2024, the Company's maximum credit exposure without the approval of the Credit Committee, a committee of Legacy Brookline's Board of Directors, was $60.0 million and there were four borrowers with loans and commitments over $60.0 million. The total of those loans and commitments was $267.3 million, or 2.3% of total loans and commitments, as of December 31, 2024.

The Company has written underwriting policies to control the inherent risks in loan origination. The policies address approval limits, loan-to-value ratios, appraisal requirements, debt service coverage ratios, loan concentration limits and other matters relevant to loan underwriting.

Commercial Real Estate Loans

The commercial real estate portfolio is comprised of commercial real estate loans, multi-family mortgage loans, and construction loans and is the largest component of the Company's overall loan portfolio, representing 55.5% of total loans and leases outstanding as of December 31, 2025.

Typically, commercial real estate loans are larger in size and involve a greater degree of risk than owner-occupied residential mortgage loans. Loan repayment is usually dependent on the successful operation and management of the properties and the value of the properties securing the loans. Economic conditions can greatly affect cash flows and property values.

A number of factors are considered in originating commercial real estate and multi-family mortgage loans. The qualifications and financial condition of the borrower (including credit history), as well as the potential income generation and the value and condition of the underlying property, are evaluated. When evaluating the qualifications of the borrower, the Company considers the financial resources of the borrower, the borrower's experience in owning or managing similar property and the borrower's payment history with the Company and other financial institutions. Factors considered in evaluating the

33

Table of Contents

underlying property include the net operating income of the mortgaged premises before debt service and depreciation, the debt service coverage ratio (the ratio of cash flow before debt service to debt service), the use of conservative capitalization rates, and the ratio of the loan amount to the appraised value. Generally, personal guarantees are obtained from commercial real estate loan borrowers.

Commercial real estate and multi-family mortgage loans are typically originated for terms of five to fifteen years with amortization periods of 20 to 30 years. Many of the loans are priced at inception on a fixed-rate basis generally for periods ranging from two to five years with repricing periods for longer-term loans. When possible, prepayment penalties are included in loan covenants on these loans. For commercial customers who are interested in loans with terms longer than five years, the Company offers loan level derivatives to accommodate customer need.

The Company's urban and suburban market area is characterized by a large number of apartment buildings, condominiums and office buildings. As a result, commercial real estate and multi-family mortgage lending has been a significant part of the Company's activities for many years. These types of loans typically generate higher yields, but also involve greater credit risk. Many of the Company's borrowers have more than one multi-family or commercial real estate loan outstanding with the Company.

The commercial real estate portfolio was composed primarily of loans secured by multi-family buildings ($2.3 billion), retail stores ($1.9 billion), industrial properties ($1.3 billion), office buildings ($1.2 billion), mixed-use properties ($491.8 million), lodging services ($556.0 million) and food services ($73.8 million) as of December 31, 2025.

The following table presents the percentage of the Company's commercial real estate loan portfolio by borrower type that is owner and non-owner occupied as of December 31, 2025.

At December 31, 2025
Owner OccupiedNon-Owner OccupiedTotal
Borrower type:
Multi-family buildings%23.14%23.14%
Office buildings1.09%10.83%11.92%
Retail stores3.84%14.76%18.60%
Industrial properties3.44%9.87%13.31%
Mixed-use properties0.64%4.28%4.92%
Lodging services0.13%5.43%5.56%
Food Services0.42%0.32%0.74%
Other8.39%13.42%21.81%
Total17.95%82.05%100.00%

The following table presents the percentage of the Company's commercial real estate loan portfolio by geographic concentration that is owner and non-owner occupied as of December 31, 2025.

At December 31, 2025
Owner OccupiedNon-Owner OccupiedTotal
Geographic concentration:
New England11.30%59.45%70.75%
New York3.46%17.18%20.64%
Other3.19%5.42%8.61%
Total17.95%82.05%100.00%

Construction and development financing is generally considered to involve a higher degree of risk than long-term financing on improved, occupied real estate and thus has lower concentration limits than do other commercial credit classes. Risk of loss on a construction loan is largely dependent upon the accuracy of the initial estimate of construction costs, the estimated time to sell or rent the completed property at an adequate price or rate of occupancy, and market conditions. If the estimates and projections prove to be inaccurate, the Company may be confronted with a project which, upon completion, has a value that is insufficient to assure full loan repayment.

Criteria applied in underwriting construction loans for which the primary source of repayment is the sale of the property is different from the criteria applied in underwriting construction loans for which the primary source of repayment is the

34

Table of Contents

stabilized cash flow from the completed project. For those loans where the primary source of repayment is from resale of the property, in addition to the normal credit analysis performed for other loans, the Company also analyzes project costs, the attractiveness of the property in relation to the market in which it is located and demand within the market area. For those construction loans where the source of repayment is the stabilized cash flow from the completed project, the Company analyzes not only project costs but also how long it might take to achieve satisfactory occupancy and the reasonableness of projected rental rates in relation to market rental rates.

Commercial Loans

The commercial loan and lease portfolio is comprised of commercial and equipment financing loans and leases representing 21.9% of total loans outstanding as of December 31, 2025.

The commercial loan and lease portfolio is composed primarily of loans in the following sectors: small businesses ($1.4 billion), food services ($411.7 million), rental and leasing services ($380.6 million), manufacturing ($285.3 million), retail ($217.3 million), transportation services ($208.3 million) and recreation services ($150.4 million) as of December 31, 2025.

The following table presents the percentage of the Company's commercial loan portfolio by geographic concentration as of December 31, 2025.

At December 31, 2025At December 31, 2024
TotalTotal
Geographic concentration:
New England50.6%41.7%
New York15.4%6.2%
Other34.0%52.1%
Total100.0%100.0%

The Company provides commercial banking services to companies in its market area. Product offerings include lines of credit, term loans, letters of credit, deposit services and cash management. These types of credit facilities have as their primary source of repayment cash flows from the operations of a business. Interest rates offered are available on a floating basis tied to the prime rate or a similar index or on a fixed-rate basis referenced on the Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston index.

Credit extensions are made to established businesses on the basis of loan purpose and assessment of capacity to repay as determined by an analysis of their financial statements, the nature of collateral to secure the credit extension and, in most instances, the personal guarantee of the owner of the business as well as industry and general economic conditions.

The Company’s equipment financing divisions focus on market niches in which its lenders have deep experience and industry contacts, and on making loans to customers with business experience. An important part of the Company’s equipment financing loan origination volume comes from equipment manufacturers, distributors, and owner-operated start-ups as well as existing customers that are expanding their operations. The equipment financing portfolio is composed primarily of loans to finance vended-laundry, and to a lesser degree larger industrial laundries, tow trucks, fitness, and convenience/grocery stores. Typically, the loans are priced at a fixed rate of interest and require monthly payments over their 5- to 10-year life. The yields earned on equipment financing loans are higher than those earned on the commercial loans made by the Bank because they involve a higher degree of credit risk. Equipment financing customers are typically small-business owners who operate with limited financial resources and who face greater risks when the economy weakens or unforeseen adverse events arise. Because of these characteristics, personal guarantees of borrowers are usually obtained along with liens on available assets. The size of loan is determined by an analysis of cash flow and other characteristics pertaining to the business and the equipment to be financed, based on detailed revenue and profitability data of similar operations.

Consumer Loans

The consumer loan portfolio is comprised of residential mortgage loans, home equity loans and lines of credit, and other consumer loans representing, 22.6% of total loans outstanding as of December 31, 2025. The Company focuses its mortgage and home equity lending on existing and new customers within its branch networks in its urban and suburban marketplaces in New England and New York.

The Company originates adjustable and fixed rate residential mortgage loans secured by one- to four-family residences. Each residential mortgage loan granted is subject to a satisfactorily completed application, employment verification, credit history and a demonstrated ability to repay the debt. Generally, loans are not made when the loan-to-value ratio exceeds 80%

35

Table of Contents

unless private mortgage insurance is obtained and/or there is a financially strong guarantor. Appraisals are performed by outside independent appraisers.

Underwriting guidelines for home equity loans and lines of credit are similar to those for residential mortgage loans. Home equity loans and lines of credit are limited to no more than 80% of the appraised value of the property securing the loan including the amount of any existing first mortgage liens.

Other consumer loans have historically been a modest part of the Company's loan originations. As of December 31, 2025, other consumer loans equaled $141.4 million, or 0.8% of total loans outstanding.

Asset Quality

Criticized and Classified Assets

The Company's management rates certain loans and leases as OAEM, "substandard" or "doubtful" based on criteria established under banking regulations. These loans and leases are collectively referred to as "criticized" assets. Loans and leases rated OAEM have potential weaknesses that deserve management's close attention. If left uncorrected, these potential weaknesses may result in deterioration of the repayment prospects of the loan or lease at some future date. Loans and leases rated as substandard are inadequately protected by the payment capacity of the obligor or of the collateral pledged, if any. Substandard loans and leases have a well-defined weakness or weaknesses that jeopardize the liquidation of debt and are characterized by the distinct possibility that the Company will sustain some loss if existing deficiencies are not corrected. Loans and leases rated as doubtful have well-defined weaknesses that jeopardize the orderly liquidation of debt and partial loss of principal is likely. As of December 31, 2025, the Company had $683.7 million of total assets that were designated as criticized. This compares to $252.7 million of assets designated as criticized as of December 31, 2024. The increase of $431 million in criticized assets was primarily driven by the Transaction.

Nonperforming Assets

"Nonperforming assets" consist of nonaccrual loans and leases, OREO and other repossessed assets. Under certain circumstances, the Company may restructure the terms of a loan or lease as a concession to a borrower, except for acquired loans and leases which are individually evaluated against expected performance on the date of acquisition. These restructured loans and leases are generally considered "nonperforming loans and leases" until a history of collection of at least six months on the restructured terms of the loan or lease has been established. OREO consists of real estate acquired through foreclosure proceedings and real estate acquired through acceptance of a deed in lieu of foreclosure. Other repossessed assets consist of assets that have been acquired through foreclosure that are not real estate and are included in other assets on the Company's consolidated balance sheets.

Accrual of interest on loans generally is discontinued when contractual payment of principal or interest becomes past due 90 days or, if in management's judgment, reasonable doubt exists as to the full timely collection of interest. When a loan is placed on nonaccrual status, interest accruals cease and all previously accrued and uncollected interest is reversed and charged against current interest income. Interest payments on nonaccrual loans are generally applied to principal. If collection of the principal is reasonably assured, interest payments are recognized as income on the cash basis. Loans are generally returned to accrual status when principal and interest payments are current, full collectability of principal and interest is reasonably assured and a consistent record of at least six months of performance has been achieved.

In cases where a borrower experiences financial difficulties and the Company makes or reasonably expects to make certain concessionary modifications to contractual terms, the loan is classified as a modified loan. In determining whether a debtor is experiencing financial difficulties, the Company considers, among other factors, if the debtor is in payment default or is likely to be in payment default in the foreseeable future without the modification, the debtor declared or is in the process of declaring bankruptcy, there is substantial doubt that the debtor will continue as a going concern, the debtor's entity-specific projected cash flows will not be sufficient to service its debt, or the debtor cannot obtain funds from sources other than the existing creditors at market terms for debt with similar risk characteristics.

As of December 31, 2025, the Company had nonperforming assets of $116.7 million, representing 0.50% of total assets, compared to nonperforming assets of $70.5 million, or 0.59% of total assets as of December 31, 2024. The increase of $46.2 million was primarily driven by the Transaction.

The Company evaluates the underlying collateral of each nonaccrual loan and lease and continues to pursue the collection of interest and principal. Management believes that the current level of nonperforming assets remains manageable relative to the size of the Company's loan and lease portfolio. If economic conditions were to worsen or if the marketplace were to experience prolonged economic stress, it is likely that the level of nonperforming assets would increase, as would the level of charged-off loans.

36

Table of Contents

Past Due and Accruing

As of December 31, 2025, the Company had $37.8 million loans and leases greater than 90 days past due and accruing, compared to $0.8 million as of December 31, 2024.

The following table sets forth information regarding nonperforming assets for the periods indicated:

At December 31,
20252024202320222021
(Dollars in Thousands)
Nonperforming loans and leases:
Nonaccrual loans and leases:
Commercial real estate$41,246$11,525$19,608$607$10,848
Multi-family mortgage4,0656,596
Construction707
Total commercial real estate loans45,31118,12119,6081,31410,848
Commercial16,71614,6763,8864642,318
Equipment financing42,71831,50914,9849,65315,014
Total commercial loans and leases59,43446,18518,87010,17517,416
Residential mortgage6,4653,9994,2922,6803,909
Home equity2,8111,043860723285
Other consumer135121
Total consumer loans9,4115,0435,1523,4054,195
Total nonaccrual loans and leases114,15669,34943,63014,89432,459
Other real estate owned700780
Other repossessed assets2,591403914408718
Total nonperforming assets$116,747$70,452$45,324$15,302$33,177
Loans and leases past due greater than 90 days and accruing$37,823$811$228$33$1
Total delinquent loans and leases 61-90 days past due20,2446,1195,3002,2186,081
Total nonaccrual loans and leases as a percentage of total loans and leases0.63%0.71%0.45%0.19%0.45%
Total nonperforming assets as a percentage of total assets0.50%0.59%0.40%0.17%0.39%
Total delinquent loans and leases 61-90 days past due as a percentage of total loans and leases0.11%0.06%0.05%0.03%0.08%

Allowances for Credit Losses

The allowance for credit losses consists of general and specific allowances and reflects management's estimate of expected loan and lease losses over the life of the loan or lease. Management uses a consistent and systematic process and methodology to evaluate the adequacy of the allowance for credit losses on a quarterly basis. Management continuously evaluates and challenges inputs and assumptions in the allowance for credit losses.

While management evaluates currently available information in establishing the allowance for credit losses, future adjustments to the allowance for loan and lease losses may be necessary if conditions differ substantially from the assumptions used in making the evaluations. Management performs a comprehensive review of the allowance for credit losses on a quarterly

37

Table of Contents

basis. In addition, various regulatory agencies, as an integral part of their examination process, periodically review a financial institution's allowance for credit losses and carrying amounts of other real estate owned. Such agencies may require the financial institution to recognize additions or reductions to the allowance based on their judgments about information available to them at the time of their examination.

The Company’s allowance methodology provides a quantification of probable losses in the portfolio. Under the current methodology, management estimates losses over the life of the loan using reasonable and supportable forecasts. Forecasts, loan data, and model documentation are extensively analyzed and reviewed throughout the quarter to ensure estimated losses are appropriate at quarter end. Qualitative adjustments are applied when model output does not align with management expectations. These adjustments are thoroughly reviewed and documented to provide clarity and a reasonable basis for any deviations from the model. For December 31, 2025, qualitative adjustments were applied to the commercial real estate, commercial, and consumer portfolios resulting in a net addition in total reserves compared to modeled calculations.

The following tables present the changes in the allowance for loans and lease losses by portfolio category for the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024, 2023, 2022, and 2021, respectively.

Year Ended December 31, 2025
Commercial Real EstateCommercialConsumerTotal
(In Thousands)
Balance at December 31, 2024$74,171$44,169$6,743$125,083
Charge-offs(11,018)(31,034)(199)(42,251)
Recoveries2523,6577434,652
Merger Day 1 allowance on non-PCD loans31,82017,89117,51867,229
Merger Day 1 allowance on PCD loans38,74424,2941,47364,511
Provision (credit) for loan and lease losses excluding unfunded commitments8,42227,513(2,320)33,615
Balance at December 31, 2025$142,391$86,490$23,958$252,839
Total loans and leases$10,012,094$3,947,363$4,070,095$18,029,552
Total allowance for loan and lease losses as a percentage of total loans and leases1.42%2.19%0.59%1.40%
Year Ended December 31, 2024
Commercial Real EstateCommercialConsumerTotal
(In Thousands)
Balance at December 31, 2023$81,410$29,557$6,555$117,522
Charge-offs(4,425)(22,345)(40)(26,810)
Recoveries2,241412,282
Provision (credit) for loan and lease losses(2,814)34,71618732,089
Balance at December 31, 2024$74,171$44,169$6,743$125,083
Total loans and leases$5,716,114$2,506,664$1,556,510$9,779,288
Total allowance for loan and lease losses as a percentage of total loans and leases1.30%1.76%0.43%1.28%

38

Table of Contents

Year Ended December 31, 2023
Commercial Real EstateCommercialConsumerTotal
(In Thousands)
Balance at December 31, 2022$68,154$26,604$3,724$98,482
Charge-offs(1,204)(19,990)(41)(21,235)
Recoveries1321,406341,572
Provision (credit) for loan and lease losses14,32821,5372,83838,703
Balance at December 31, 2023$81,410$29,557$6,555$117,522
Total loans and leases$5,764,529$2,399,668$1,477,392$9,641,589
Allowance for loan and lease losses as a percentage of total loans and leases1.41%1.23%0.44%1.22%
Year Ended December 31, 2022
Commercial Real EstateCommercialConsumerTotal
(In Thousands)
Balance at December 31, 2021$69,213$27,055$2,816$99,084
Charge-offs(37)(5,068)(28)(5,133)
Recoveries241,725641,813
Provision (credit) for loan and lease losses(1,046)2,8928722,718
Balance at December 31, 2022$68,154$26,604$3,724$98,482
Total loans and leases$4,404,148$2,016,499$1,223,741$7,644,388
Allowance for loan and lease losses as a percentage of total loans and leases1.55%1.32%0.30%1.29%
Year Ended December 31, 2021
Commercial Real EstateCommercialConsumerTotal
(In Thousands)
Balance at December 31, 2020$80,132$29,498$4,749$114,379
Charge-offs(28)(7,464)(34)(7,526)
Recoveries121,5412391,792
Provision (credit) for loan and lease losses(10,903)3,480(2,138)(9,561)
Balance at December 31, 2021$69,213$27,055$2,816$99,084
Total loans and leases$4,103,040$1,887,136$1,164,281$7,154,457
Allowance for loan and lease losses as a percentage of total loans and leases1.69%1.43%0.24%1.38%

At December 31, 2025, the allowance for loan and lease losses increased to $252.8 million, or 1.40% of total loans and leases outstanding. This compared to an allowance for loan and lease losses of $125.1 million, or 1.28% of total loans and leases outstanding, as of December 31, 2024.The increase in the allowance for loan and lease losses was primarily due to the Transaction.

Net charge-offs in the loans and leases portfolio for the years ending December 31, 2025 and 2024 were $37.6 million and $24.5 million, respectively. The $13.1 million increase in net charge-offs was primarily driven by net charge-off increases of $7.3 million in commercial loans and $6.3 million in commercial real estate loans, offset by a decrease of $0.5 million in consumer loans. $5.7 million of the increase was related to the Transaction.

Management believes that the allowance for loan and lease losses as of December 31, 2025 is appropriate based on the facts and circumstances discussed further below.

39

Table of Contents

The following tables set forth the Company's percent of allowance for loan and lease losses to the total allowance for loan and lease losses and the percent of loans to total loans for each of the categories listed at the dates indicated.

At December 31,
202520242023
AmountPercent of Allowance to Total AllowancePercent of Loans in Each Category to Total LoansAmountPercent of Allowance to Total AllowancePercent of Loans in Each Category to Total LoansAmountPercent of Allowance to Total AllowancePercent of Loans in Each Category to Total Loans
(Dollars in Thousands)
Commercial real estate$109,52543.3%40.1%$52,63842.0%41.1%$53,63345.7%42.0%
Multi-family mortgage22,1688.8%12.0%15,23412.2%14.2%16,62614.1%14.7%
Construction10,6984.2%3.4%6,2995.0%3.1%11,1519.5%3.1%
Total commercial real estate loans142,39156.3%55.5%74,17159.2%58.4%81,41069.3%59.8%
Commercial53,65121.2%15.4%15,55512.4%12.4%15,68813.3%10.7%
Equipment financing32,83913.0%6.5%28,61422.9%13.2%13,86911.8%14.2%
Total commercial loans and leases86,49034.2%21.9%44,16935.3%25.6%29,55725.1%24.9%
Residential mortgage16,5586.5%17.9%3,0672.5%11.4%3,6693.2%11.2%
Home equity4,9802.0%3.9%2,8512.3%3.9%2,2551.9%3.6%
Other consumer2,4201.0%0.8%8250.7%0.7%6310.5%0.5%
Total consumer loans23,9589.5%22.6%6,7435.5%16.0%6,5555.6%15.3%
Total$252,839100.0%100.0%$125,083100.0%100.0%$117,522100.0%100.0%

40

Table of Contents

At December 31,
20222021
AmountPercent of Allowance to Total AllowancePercent of Loans in Each Category to Total LoansAmountPercent of Allowance to Total AllowancePercent of Loans in Each Category to Total Loans
(Dollars in Thousands)
Commercial real estate$44,53645.3%39.9%$44,84345.3%39.6%
Multi-family mortgage16,88517.1%15.1%17,47417.6%15.4%
Construction6,7336.8%2.7%6,8967.0%2.2%
Total commercial real estate loans68,15469.2%57.7%69,21369.9%57.2%
Commercial12,28912.5%10.5%9,1489.2%11.0%
Equipment financing14,31514.5%15.9%17,90718.1%15.5%
Total commercial loans and leases26,60427.0%26.4%27,05527.3%26.5%
Residential mortgage1,8941.9%11.0%1,2971.3%11.2%
Home equity1,4781.5%4.2%1,3351.3%4.5%
Other consumer3520.4%0.7%1840.2%0.6%
Total consumer loans3,7243.8%15.9%2,8162.8%16.3%
Total$98,482100.0%100.0%$99,084100.0%100.0%

Investment Securities and Restricted Equity Securities

The investment portfolio exists primarily for liquidity purposes, and secondarily as sources of interest and dividend income, interest-rate risk management and tax planning as a counterbalance to loan and deposit flows. Investment securities are utilized as part of the Company's asset/liability management and may be sold in response to, or in anticipation of, factors such as changes in market conditions and interest rates, deposit outflows, liquidity concentrations and regulatory capital requirements.

The investment policy of the Company, which is reviewed and approved by the Board of Directors on an annual basis, specifies the types of investments that are acceptable, required investment ratings by at least one nationally recognized rating agency, concentration limits and duration guidelines. Compliance with the investment policy is monitored on a regular basis. In general, the Company seeks to maintain a high degree of liquidity and targets cash, cash equivalents and investment securities available-for-sale balances between 10% and 14% of total assets.

Cash, cash equivalents, and investment securities increased $2.3 billion, or 159.3%, to $3.7 billion as of December 31, 2025 compared to $1.4 billion as of December 31, 2024. The increase was impacted by the Transaction. Cash, cash equivalents, and investment securities were 16.1% of total assets as of December 31, 2025, compared to 12.1% of total assets at December 31, 2024.

41

Table of Contents

The following table sets forth certain information regarding the amortized cost and market value of the Company's investment securities at the dates indicated:

At December 31,
202520242023
Amortized CostFair ValueAmortized CostFair ValueAmortized CostFair Value
(In Thousands)
Investment securities available-for-sale:
GSE debentures$185,449$173,677$195,099$176,294$220,604$201,127
GSE CMOs500,446496,57062,56755,54366,46361,617
GSE MBSs334,476325,745166,843148,285186,614169,997
Municipal obligations231,924240,21620,52620,25418,78518,922
Corporate debt obligations39,20940,02312,14012,28720,52119,716
U.S. Treasury bonds424,214412,037506,714481,872470,764444,737
Foreign government obligations500500500499500485
Total investment securities available-for-sale$1,716,218$1,688,768$964,389$895,034$984,251$916,601
Restricted equity securities:
FHLB stock$29,382$61,108$55,548
FRB stock57,40721,88121,881
Other649166166
Total restricted equity securities$87,438$83,155$77,595

Total investment securities and restricted equity securities primarily consist of investment securities available-for-sale, stock in the FHLB and stock in the FRB. The total securities portfolio increased $798.0 million, or 81.6% since December 31, 2024. As of December 31, 2025, the total securities portfolio was 7.65% of total assets, compared to 8.22% of total assets as of December 31, 2024.

The fair value of investment securities is based principally on market prices and dealer quotes received from third-party, nationally-recognized pricing services for identical investment securities such as U.S. Treasury and agency securities. The Company's equity securities held-for-trading, if any, are priced this way and are included in Level 1. These prices are validated by comparing the primary pricing source with an alternative pricing source when available. When quoted market prices for identical securities are unavailable, the Company uses market prices provided by independent pricing services based on recent trading activity and other observable information, including but not limited to market interest-rate curves, referenced credit spreads and estimated prepayment speeds where applicable. These investments include certain U.S. and government agency debt securities, municipal and corporate debt securities, GSEs, MBSs and CMOs, trust preferred securities, and equity securities held-for-trading, all of which are included in Level 1, 2 and 3.

Additionally, management reviews changes in fair value from period to period and performs testing to ensure that prices received from the third parties are consistent with their expectation of the market. Changes in the prices obtained from the pricing service are analyzed from month to month, taking into consideration changes in market conditions including changes in mortgage spreads, changes in U.S. Treasury security yields and changes in generic pricing of 15-year and 30-year securities. Additional analysis may include a review of prices provided by other independent parties, a yield analysis, a review of average life changes using Bloomberg analytics and a review of historical pricing for the particular security.

As of December 31, 2025, the fair value of all investment securities available-for-sale was $1.7 billion and carried a total of $27.5 million of net unrealized losses, compared to a fair value of $895.0 million and net unrealized losses of $69.4 million as of December 31, 2024. As of December 31, 2025, $552.9 million, or 32.7%, of the portfolio, had gross unrealized losses of $44.7 million. This compares to $705.3 million, or 78.8%, of the portfolio with gross unrealized losses of $70.2 million as of December 31, 2024. The Company's increased unrealized loss position in 2025 was primarily driven by higher interest rates year over year. In 2024, U.S. Treasury yields rose across the 3-to-10 year part of the curve which negatively impacted the value of the Company's longer duration primarily in the GSE CMOs and GSE MBS security portfolios. For additional discussion on investment securities available-for-sale by security type, see Note 4, "Investment Securities" to the consolidated financial statements.

42

Table of Contents

The Company reviews its debt securities portfolio on a quarterly basis in accordance with ASC 326. This analysis is done using probability of default and loss given default assumptions where a model is created to determine CECL for the remaining life of the securities. For the year ended December 31, 2025, the Company recognized $0.1 million as an allowance for credit loss. For additional discussion on how the Company validates fair values provided by the third-party pricing service, see Note 21, “Fair Value of Financial Instruments” to the consolidated financial statements.

Maturities, calls and principal repayments for investment securities available-for-sale totaled $190.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2025 compared to $174.0 million for the same period in 2024. For the year ended December 31, 2025, the Company purchased $33.1 million of investment securities available-for-sale, compared to $148.5 million for the same period in 2024. The Company sold investment securities available-for-sale during the twelve months ended December 31, 2025. Proceeds from the sale of investment securities available-for-sale were $176.3 million. Securities sales executed during the twelve months ended December 31, 2025 were related to the Transaction, resulting in a restructuring of the portfolio. There was no gain or loss on the sale. During the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, the Company did not sell any investment securities available-for-sale.

Restricted Equity Securities

FHLB Stock—The Company invests in the stock of the FHLB as a requirement to borrow funds from the FHLB. As of December 31, 2025, the Company owned stock in the FHLB with a carrying value of $29.4 million, a decrease of $31.7 million from $61.1 million as of December 31, 2024. The Company continually reviews its investment to determine if impairment exists. The Company reviews recent public filings, rating agency analysis and other factors when making its determination. See Note 5, "Restricted Equity Securities" to the consolidated financial statements for further information about the FHLB.

Federal Reserve Bank Stock—The Company invests in the stock of the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston as a condition of the membership for the Bank in the Federal Reserve System. The Federal Reserve Bank is the primary federal regulator for the Company and the Bank.

Carrying Value, Weighted Average Yields, and Contractual Maturities of Investment and Restricted Equity Securities

The table below sets forth certain information regarding the carrying value, weighted average yields and contractual maturities of the Company's investment and restricted equity securities portfolio at the date indicated.

Balance at December 31, 2025
One Year or LessAfter One Year Through Five YearsAfter Five Years Through Ten YearsAfter Ten YearsTotal
Carrying ValueWeighted Average Yield (1)Carrying ValueWeighted Average Yield (1)Carrying ValueWeighted Average Yield (1)Carrying ValueWeighted Average Yield (1)Carrying ValueWeighted Average Yield (1)
(Dollars in Thousands)
Investment securities available-for-sale:
GSE debentures$24,4454.42%$133,0562.12%$9394.20%$15,2373.23%$173,6773.35%
GSE CMOs%20,8755.49%40,5895.04%435,2864.13%496,5704.26%
GSE MBSs%5,0852.39%44,7662.21%275,8944.08%325,7453.80%
Municipal obligations7,2944.26%8,5054.03%106,1703.65%118,2474.72%240,2164.06%
Corporate debt obligations%15,3677.50%23,8005.66%8566.45%40,0236.38%
U.S. Treasury bonds114,6323.74%270,7432.69%26,6621.32%%412,0372.90%
Foreign government obligations%5005.00%%%5005.00%
Total investment securities available-for-sale$146,3713.89%$454,1312.84%$242,9263.56%$845,5204.18%$1,688,7683.69%
Restricted equity securities (2):
FHLB stock$%$%$%$29,382%$29,3827.39%
FRB stock%%%57,407%57,4074.18%
Other stock%%%649%649%
Total restricted equity securities$%$%$%$87,438%$87,4385.23%

_______________________________________________________________________________

(1) Yields have been calculated on a pre-tax basis. The Company holds no investment securities available-for-sale that are tax-exempt.

(2) Equity securities have no contractual maturity, therefore they are reported above in the over ten year maturity column.

43

Table of Contents

Deposits

The following table presents the Company's deposit mix at the dates indicated.

At December 31,
202520242023
AmountPercent of TotalWeighted Average RateAmountPercent of TotalWeighted Average RateAmountPercent of TotalWeighted Average Rate
(Dollars in Thousands)
Non-interest-bearing deposits:
Demand checking accounts$4,032,52920.7%%$1,692,39419.0%%$1,678,40619.6%%
Interest-bearing deposits:
NOW accounts1,445,8947.4%0.88%617,2466.9%0.57%661,8637.8%0.60%
Savings accounts2,954,02915.1%1.82%1,721,24719.3%4.40%1,669,01819.5%2.63%
Money market accounts6,515,30633.4%2.62%2,116,36023.8%2.58%2,082,81024.4%3.07%
Certificate of deposit accounts4,156,54021.3%3.59%1,885,44421.2%4.30%1,574,85518.4%3.88%
Brokered deposit accounts410,3592.1%4.13%868,9539.8%4.42%881,17310.3%4.36%
Total interest-bearing deposits15,482,12879.3%2.60%7,209,25081.0%3.51%6,869,71980.4%3.08%
Total deposits$19,514,657100.0%2.06%$8,901,644100.0%2.85%$8,548,125100.0%2.48%

The Company seeks to increase its core deposits and decrease its loan-to-deposit ratio over time, while continuing to increase deposits as a percentage of total funding sources. The Company's loan-to-deposit ratio was 92.4% as of December 31, 2025, compared to 109.9% as of December 31, 2024.

Total deposits increased $10.6 billion, or 119.2%, to $19.5 billion as of December 31, 2025, compared to $8.9 billion as of December 31, 2024. Deposits as a percentage of total assets increased from 74.8% as of December 31, 2024 to 84.0% as of December 31, 2025. The increase was impacted by the Transaction.

In 2025, core deposits increased $6.9 billion. The ratio of core deposits to total deposits decreased from 69.1% as of December 31, 2024 to 67.0% as of December 31, 2025, as a result of increases in certificate of deposit accounts.

Certificate of deposit accounts increased $2.3 billion to $4.2 billion as of December 31, 2025, compared to $1.9 billion as of December 31, 2024. Certificate of deposit accounts increased as a percentage of total deposits to 21.3% as of December 31, 2025 from 21.2% as of December 31, 2024.

Brokered deposits decreased $458.6 million to $410.4 million as of December 31, 2025, compared to $869.0 million as of December 31, 2024. Brokered deposits decreased as a percentage of total deposits to 2.1% as of December 31, 2025 from 9.8% as of December 31, 2024. The decrease in brokered deposits was primarily driven by an increase in customer deposits allowing for less reliance on brokered deposits. Brokered deposits allow the Company to seek additional funding by attracting deposits from outside the Company's core market. The Company's investment policy limits the amount of brokered deposits to 15% of total assets.

The following table sets forth the distribution of the average balances of the Company's deposit accounts for the years indicated and the weighted average interest rates on each category of deposits presented. Averages for the years presented are based on daily balances.

44

Table of Contents

Year Ended December 31,
202520242023
Average BalancePercent of Total Average DepositsWeighted Average RateAverage BalancePercent of Total Average DepositsWeighted Average RateAverage BalancePercent of Total Average DepositsWeighted Average Rate
(Dollars in Thousands)
Core deposits:
Non-interest-bearing demand checking accounts$2,439,12119.9%%$1,657,92219.1%%$1,823,75921.7%%
NOW accounts909,7337.4%0.75%650,2257.5%0.70%720,5728.5%0.59%
Savings accounts2,169,77917.7%2.24%1,726,50419.8%2.68%1,439,29317.1%1.94%
Money market accounts (non-payroll)2,306,95618.8%2.31%2,056,06623.6%2.96%2,205,43026.1%2.64%
Total core deposits7,825,58963.9%1.62%6,090,71770.0%1.83%6,189,05473.4%1.46%
Certificate of deposit accounts2,637,19321.5%3.88%1,737,69720.0%4.38%1,428,72716.9%3.09%
Payroll deposits1,014,1468.3%3.42%%%%%
Brokered deposit accounts769,6746.3%4.51%873,18210.0%5.18%819,4199.7%5.02%
Total deposits$12,246,602100.0%2.38%$8,701,596100.0%2.68%$8,437,200100.0%2.08%

As of December 31, 2025 and 2024, the Company had outstanding certificate of deposit of $250,000 or more, maturing as follows:

At December 31,
20252024
AmountWeighted Average RateAmountWeighted Average Rate
(Dollars in Thousands)
Maturity period:
Six months or less$1,041,7423.80%$443,9444.63%
Over six months through 12 months274,4083.73%143,2384.22%
Over 12 months82,7793.49%26,0443.86%
Total certificate of deposit of $250,000 or more$1,398,9293.77%$613,2264.50%

The following table presents the Company's insured and uninsured deposit mix at the date indicated.

At December 31, 2025
(Dollars in Millions)
CommercialConsumerMunicipalBrokeredTotal%
Insured or Collateralized$7,104$3,537$459$410$11,51059%
Uninsured2,1045,864378,00541%
Total$9,208$9,401$497$410$19,515100%
Composition47%48%3%2%100%

As of December 31, 2025, the Company had uninsured municipal deposits requiring collateral of $240.0 million, included in Insured or Collateralized in the table above, which are covered by specific collateral and FHLB letters of credit. The remaining deposits, included in Insured or Collateralized in the table above, are insured with the FDIC.

45

Table of Contents

Borrowed Funds

The following table sets forth certain information regarding FHLB advances, subordinated debentures and notes and other borrowed funds for the periods indicated:

Year Ended December 31,
202520242023
(Dollars in Thousands)
Borrowed funds:
Average balance outstanding$998,646$1,287,549$1,301,905
Maximum amount outstanding at any month end during the year1,192,8741,519,8461,630,102
Balance outstanding at end of year788,3601,519,8461,376,670
Weighted average interest rate for the period4.86%5.04%4.69%
Weighted average interest rate at end of period4.70%4.88%5.01%

Advances from the FHLB

On a long-term basis, the Company intends to continue to grow its core deposits. The Company also uses FHLB borrowings and other wholesale borrowings as part of the Company's overall strategy to fund loan growth and manage interest-rate risk and liquidity. The advances are secured by a blanket security agreement which requires the Bank to maintain certain qualifying assets as collateral, principally mortgage loans and securities in an aggregate amount at least equal to outstanding advances. The maximum amount that the FHLB will advance to member institutions, including the Company, fluctuates from time to time in accordance with the policies of the FHLB. The Company may also borrow from the Federal Reserve Discount Window as necessary.

FHLB borrowings decreased $800.1 million to $0.6 billion as of December 31, 2025 from $1.4 billion as of December 31, 2024. The Company's remaining borrowing capacity from the FHLB for advances and repurchase agreements was $3.9 billion as of December 31, 2025.

Other Borrowed Funds

In addition to advances from the FHLB and subordinated debentures and notes, the Company utilizes other funding

sources as part of the overall liquidity strategy. Those funding sources include repurchase agreements and committed and uncommitted lines of credit with several financial institutions.

As of December 31, 2025, the Bank also has access to funding through certain uncommitted lines via AFX as well as committed and uncommitted lines from other large financial institutions. As of December 31, 2025, the Company had no borrowings outstanding with these committed and uncommitted lines.

The Company has access to the Federal Reserve Discount Window to supplement its liquidity. The Company has $601.9 million of borrowing capacity at the FRB as of December 31, 2025. As of December 31, 2025, the Company did not have any borrowings with the FRB outstanding.

As of December 31, 2025, the Company had $33.1 million in interest-bearing cash held as collateral from dealer counterparties. This compares to $79.6 million outstanding as of December 31, 2024. This cash collateralizes the fair value of the dealer side of derivative transactions.

Subordinated Debentures and Notes

The Company has two $5.0 million subordinated debentures due on June 26, 2033 and March 17, 2034, respectively. The Company is obligated to pay 3-month CME term SOFR plus spread adjustment of 0.26% plus 3.10% and 3-month CME term SOFR plus spread adjustment of 0.26% plus 2.79%, respectively, on a quarterly basis until the debentures mature.

The Company sold $75.0 million of 6.0% fixed-to-floating subordinated notes due September 15, 2029. The Company is obligated to pay 3-month CME term SOFR plus spread adjustment of 0.26% plus 3.32% quarterly until the notes mature in September 2029. As of December 31, 2025, the Company had capitalized costs of $0.4 million in relation to the issuance of these subordinated notes.

46

Table of Contents

In connection with the Transaction, the Company assumed ten year subordinated notes in the amount of $100.0 million. The interest rate is fixed at 5.50% until June 30, 2027, after which the notes become callable and will bear interest at a floating rate per annum equal to a benchmark rate (which is expected to be Three-Month Term SOFR), plus 249 basis points.

The Company holds 100% of the common stock of Berkshire Hills Capital Trust I (“Trust I”) which is included in other assets with a cost of $0.5 million. The sole asset of Trust I is $15.5 million of the Company’s junior subordinated debentures due in 2035. These debentures bear interest at a variable rate equal to 3-month CME Term SOFR plus 1.85%. The Company has the right to defer payments of interest for up to five years on the debentures at any time, or from time to time, with certain limitations, including a restriction on the payment of dividends to shareholders while such interest payments on the debentures have been deferred. The Company has not exercised this right to defer payments. The Company has the right to redeem the debentures at par value on each quarterly payment date. Trust I is considered a variable interest entity for which the Company is not the primary beneficiary. Accordingly, Trust I is not consolidated into the Company’s financial statements.

The Company holds 100% of the common stock of SI Capital Trust II (“Trust II”) which is included in other assets with a cost of $0.2 million. The sole asset of Trust II is $8.2 million of the Company’s junior subordinated debentures due in 2036. These debentures bear interest at a variable rate equal to 3-month CME Term SOFR plus 1.70%. The Company has the right to defer payments of interest for up to five years on the debentures at any time, or from time to time, with certain limitations, including a restriction on the payment of dividends to shareholders while such interest payments on the debentures have been deferred. The Company has not exercised this right to defer payments. The Company has the right to redeem the debentures at par value. Trust II is considered a variable interest entity for which the Company is not the primary beneficiary. Accordingly, Trust II is not consolidated into the Company’s financial statements.

The following table summarizes the Company's subordinated debentures and notes at the dates indicated.

Carrying Amount
Issue DateRateMaturity DateNext Call DateDecember 31, 2025December 31, 2024
(Dollars in Thousands)
June 26, 2003Variable; 3-month CME term SOFR + spread adjustment of 0.26% + 3.10%June 26, 2033March 26, 2026$4,935$4,920
March 17, 2004Variable; 3-month CME term SOFR + spread adjustment of 0.26% + 2.79%March 17, 2034March 17, 20264,9024,880
June 30, 2005Variable; 3-month CME term SOFR + spread adjustment of 0.26% + 1.85%August 23, 2035February 23, 202613,943
September 21, 2006Variable; 3-month CME term SOFR + spread adjustment of 0.26% + 1.70%December 15, 2036March 15, 20267,232
September 15, 2014Variable; 3-month CME term SOFR + spread adjustment of 0.26% + 3.32%September 15, 2029March 16, 202672,52874,528
June 30, 2022Variable; 3-month CME term SOFR + 2.49%July 1, 2032June 30, 202795,032
Total$198,572$84,328

Derivative Financial Instruments

The Company has entered into loan level derivatives, risk participation agreements, and foreign exchange contracts with certain commercial customers and concurrently enters into offsetting swaps with third-party financial institutions. The Company may also, from time to time, enter into risk participation agreements. The Company uses interest rate futures that are designated and qualify as cash flow hedging instruments.

47

Table of Contents

The following table summarizes certain information concerning the Company's loan level derivatives, risk participation agreements, and foreign exchange contracts at December 31, 2025 and 2024:

At December 31, 2025At December 31, 2024
(Dollars in Thousands)
Interest rate derivatives (Notional amounts):$192,468$225,000
Loan level derivatives (Notional Amount):
Receive fixed, pay variable$3,505,840$1,672,948
Pay fixed, receive variable3,505,8401,672,948
Risk participation-out agreements670,834539,731
Risk participation-in agreements153,185102,198
Foreign exchange contracts (Notional Amount)
Buys foreign currency, sells U.S. currency$2,785$5,849
Sells foreign currency, buys U.S. currency2,8005,408
Fixed weighted average interest rate of the swap portfolio4.03%3.03%
Floating weighted average interest rate of the swap portfolio4.75%4.81%
Weighted average remaining term to maturity (in months)5668
Fair value:
Recognized as an asset:
Interest rate derivatives$185$18
Loan level derivatives102,237102,608
Risk participation-out agreements532495
Foreign exchange contracts274482
Recognized as a liability:
Interest rate derivatives$179$2,051
Loan level derivatives115,937102,608
Risk participation-in agreements139137
Foreign exchange contracts258459

Stockholders' Equity and Dividends

The Company's total stockholders' equity was $2.5 billion as of December 31, 2025, representing a $1.3 billion increase compared to $1.2 billion at December 31, 2024. The increase for the twelve months ended December 31, 2025, was primarily driven by purchase price consideration as a result of the Transaction, net income of $90.3 million, unrealized gain on securities available-for-sale of $33.1 million, partially offset by dividends paid by the Company of $63.1 million, and restricted stock, net of awards surrendered of $54.6 million.

For the year ended December 31, 2025, the dividend payout ratio was 69.9%, compared to 69.9% for the year ended December 31, 2024. The dividends paid in the fourth quarter of 2025 represented the Company's 107th consecutive quarter of dividend payments. The Company's quarterly dividend distribution was $0.135 for each of the first two quarters and $0.3225 for each of the last two quarters, per share for 2025.

Stockholders' equity represented 10.75% of total assets as of December 31, 2025 and 10.26% of total assets as of December 31, 2024. Tangible stockholders' equity (total stockholders' equity less goodwill and identified intangible assets, net) represented 8.62% of tangible assets (total assets less goodwill and identified intangible assets, net) as of December 31, 2025 and 8.27% as of December 31, 2024.

48

Table of Contents

Results of Operations

The Company’s results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2025 include income from the four months following the Transaction and the results of Legacy Brookline prior to September 1, 2025. While Legacy Berkshire was the legal acquirer and surviving corporation following the Transaction, Legacy Brookline is considered the acquirer for accounting purposes. Accordingly, the Company’s historical operating results as of and for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, as presented and discussed in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, do not include the historical results of Legacy Berkshire.

The primary drivers of the Company's net income are net interest income, which is strongly affected by the net yield on and growth of interest-earning assets and liabilities ("net interest margin"), the quality of the Company's assets, its levels of non-interest income and non-interest expense, and its tax provision.

The Company's net interest income represents the difference between interest income earned on its investments, loans and leases, and its cost of funds. Interest income is dependent on the amount of interest-earning assets outstanding during the period and the yield earned thereon. Cost of funds is a function of the average amount of deposits and borrowed money outstanding during the year and the interest rates paid thereon. Net interest margin is calculated by dividing net interest income by average interest-earning assets. Net interest spread is the difference between the average rate earned on interest-earning assets and the average rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities. The increases or decreases, as applicable, in the components of interest income and interest expense, expressed in terms of fluctuation in average volume and rate, are summarized under "Rate/Volume Analysis" below. Information as to the components of interest income, interest expense and average rates is provided under "Average Balances, Net Interest Income, Interest-Rate Spread and Net Interest Margin" below.

Because the Company's assets and liabilities are not identical in duration and in repricing dates, the differential between the two is vulnerable to changes in market interest rates as well as the overall shape of the yield curve. These vulnerabilities are inherent to the business of banking and are commonly referred to as "interest-rate risk." How interest-rate risk is measured and, once measured, how much interest-rate risk is taken are based on numerous assumptions and other subjective judgments. See the discussion in the "Measuring Interest-Rate Risk" section of Item 7A, "Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk" below.

The quality of the Company's assets also influences its earnings. Loans and leases that are not paid on a timely basis and exhibit other weaknesses can result in the loss of principal and/or interest income. Additionally, the Company must make timely provisions to the allowance for loan and lease losses based on estimates of probable losses inherent in the loan and lease portfolio. These additions, which are charged against earnings, are necessarily greater when greater probable losses are expected. Further, the Company incurs expenses as a result of resolving troubled assets. These variables reflect the "credit risk" that the Company takes on in the ordinary course of business and are further discussed under "Financial Condition—Asset Quality" above.

Average Balances, Net Interest Income, Interest-Rate Spread and Net Interest Margin

The following table sets forth information about the Company's average balances, interest income and interest rates earned on average interest-earning assets, interest expense and interest rates paid on average interest-bearing liabilities, interest-rate spread and net interest margin for the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023. Average balances are derived from daily average balances and yields include fees, costs and purchase-accounting-related premiums and discounts which are considered adjustments to coupon yields in accordance with GAAP.

49

Table of Contents

Year Ended December 31,
202520242023
Average BalanceInterest (1)Average Yield/ CostAverage BalanceInterest (1)Average Yield/ CostAverage BalanceInterest (1)Average Yield/ Cost
(Dollars in Thousands)
Assets:
Interest-earning assets:
Debt securities$1,159,559$41,8673.61%$862,381$26,4163.06%$947,782$29,8913.15%
Restricted equity securities74,9504,8966.53%74,7885,7867.74%72,2645,5727.71%
Short-term investments468,98119,5684.17%164,4458,5545.20%158,7188,3295.25%
Total investments1,703,49066,3313.89%1,101,61440,7563.70%1,178,76443,7923.72%
Commercial real estate loans (2)7,092,889412,4465.74%5,760,432327,2215.59%5,654,385307,6525.37%
Commercial loans (2)1,788,703118,4386.53%1,086,46073,3696.65%929,07759,1106.28%
Equipment financing (2)1,228,050101,0228.23%1,352,993106,3297.86%1,277,22492,1127.21%
Consumer loans (2)2,435,721138,3085.68%1,501,62682,2735.47%1,470,67775,0985.10%
Total loans and leases12,545,363770,2146.14%9,701,511589,1926.07%9,331,363533,9725.72%
Total interest-earning assets14,248,853836,5455.87%10,803,125629,9485.83%10,510,127577,7645.50%
Allowance for loan and lease losses(168,193)(121,628)(120,613)
Non-interest-earning assets1,149,988791,927824,857
Total assets$15,230,648$11,473,424$11,214,371
Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity:
Interest-bearing liabilities:
Interest-bearing deposits:
NOW accounts$909,7336,7780.75%$650,2254,5430.70%$720,5724,2750.59%
Savings accounts2,169,77948,5022.24%1,726,50446,2202.68%1,439,29327,9741.94%
Money market accounts3,321,10288,0552.65%2,056,06660,7962.96%2,205,43058,1532.64%
Certificate of deposit accounts2,637,193102,4243.88%1,737,69776,1344.38%1,428,72744,1223.09%
Brokered deposit accounts769,67434,7414.51%873,18245,2705.18%819,41941,1415.02%
Total interest-bearing deposits (3)9,807,481280,5002.86%7,043,674232,9633.31%6,613,441175,6652.66%
Advances from the FHLB826,79637,5114.47%1,124,43255,8514.89%1,092,99652,4674.73%
Subordinated debentures and notes122,4769,4367.70%84,2586,0747.21%84,1165,4766.51%
Other borrowed funds49,3742,2354.53%78,8594,0485.13%124,7933,9683.18%
Total borrowed funds998,64649,1824.86%1,287,54965,9735.04%1,301,90561,9114.69%
Total interest-bearing liabilities10,806,127329,6823.05%8,331,223298,9363.59%7,915,346237,5763.00%
Non-interest-bearing liabilities:
Non-interest-bearing demand checking accounts (3)2,439,1211,657,9221,823,759
Other non-interest-bearing liabilities327,262273,243307,160
Total liabilities13,572,51010,262,38810,046,265
Stockholders' equity1,658,1381,211,0361,168,106
Total liabilities and equity$15,230,648$11,473,424$11,214,371
Net interest income (tax-equivalent basis) / Interest-rate spread (4)506,8632.82%331,0122.24%340,1882.50%
Less adjustment of tax-exempt income3,7571,427477
Net interest income$503,106$329,585$339,711
Net interest margin (5)3.56%3.06%3.24%

_________________________________________________________________________

(1) Tax-exempt income on debt securities, equity securities and industrial revenue bonds are included in commercial real estate loans on a tax-equivalent basis.

(2) Loans on nonaccrual status are included in the average balances.

(3) Including non-interest-bearing checking accounts, the average interest rate on total deposits was 2.29%, 2.68% and 2.08% in the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023, respectively.

(4) Interest-rate spread represents the difference between the yield on interest-earning assets and the cost of interest-bearing liabilities.

(5) Net interest margin represents net interest income (tax equivalent basis) divided by average interest-earning assets.

See "Comparison of Years Ended December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024" and "Comparison of Years Ended December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023" below for a discussion of average assets and liabilities, net interest income, interest-rate spread and net interest margin.

50

Table of Contents

Rate/Volume Analysis

The following table presents, on a tax-equivalent basis, the extent to which changes in interest rates and changes in volume of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities have affected the Company's interest income and interest expense during the periods indicated. Information is provided in each category with respect to: (i) changes attributable to changes in volume (changes in volume multiplied by prior rate), (ii) changes attributable to changes in rate (changes in rate multiplied by prior volume), and (iii) the net change. The changes attributable to the combined impact of volume and rate have been allocated proportionately to the changes due to volume and the changes due to rate.

Year Ended December 31, 2025 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2024Year Ended December 31, 2024 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2023
Increase (Decrease) Due ToIncrease (Decrease) Due To
VolumeRateNet ChangeVolumeRateNet Change
(In Thousands)
Interest and dividend income:
Investments:
Debt securities$10,155$5,296$15,451$(2,638)$(837)$(3,475)
Restricted equity securities13(903)(890)19321214
Short-term investments13,010(1,996)11,014304(79)225
Total investments23,1782,39725,575(2,141)(895)(3,036)
Loans and leases:
Commercial real estate loans76,3668,85985,2256,14513,42419,569
Commercial loans and leases46,382(1,313)45,06910,5793,68014,259
Equipment financing(10,147)4,840(5,307)5,6428,57514,217
Consumer loans51,7874,24856,0351,6455,5307,175
Total loans164,38816,634181,02224,01131,20955,220
Total change in interest and dividend income187,56619,031206,59721,87030,31452,184
Interest expense:
Deposits:
NOW accounts1,8963392,235(453)721268
Savings accounts10,659(8,377)2,2826,26711,97918,246
Money market accounts34,187(6,928)27,259(4,112)6,7552,643
Certificate of deposit accounts35,777(9,487)26,29010,92421,08832,012
Brokered deposit accounts(5,035)(5,494)(10,529)2,7791,3504,129
Total deposits77,484(29,947)47,53715,40541,89357,298
Borrowed funds:
Advances from the FHLB(13,847)(4,493)(18,340)1,5551,8293,384
Subordinated debentures and notes2,9244383,3629589598
Other borrowed funds(1,381)(432)(1,813)(1,796)1,87680
Total borrowed funds(12,304)(4,487)(16,791)(232)4,2944,062
Total change in interest expense65,180(34,434)30,74615,17346,18761,360
Change in tax-exempt income2,3302,330950950
Change in net interest income$120,056$53,465$173,521$5,747$(15,873)$(10,126)

See "Comparison of Years Ended December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024" and "Comparison of Years Ended December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023" below for a discussion of changes in interest income, interest-rate spread and net interest margin resulting from changes in rates and volumes.

51

Table of Contents

Comparison of Years Ended December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024

Net Interest Income

Net interest income increased $173.5 million to $503.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2025 from $329.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2024. The increase year over year reflects a $179.6 million increase in interest income on loans and leases and a $24.6 million increase in interest income on debt securities, short term investments and restricted equity securities, partially offset by a $30.7 million increase in interest expense on deposits and borrowings. The increases year over year were impacted by the Transaction.

Net interest margin increased 50 basis points to 3.56% in 2025 from 3.06% in 2024. The Company's weighted average interest rate on loans increased to 6.14% for the year ended December 31, 2025 from 6.07% for the year ended December 31, 2024.

The yield on interest-earning assets increased to 5.87% for the year ended December 31, 2025 from 5.83% for the year ended December 31, 2024. The increase is the result of higher yields on loans and leases and investments. The Company recorded $4.8 million in prepayment penalties and late charges, which contributed 3 basis points to yields on interest-earning assets for the year ended December 31, 2025 compared to $3.4 million, or 3 basis points, for the year ended December 31, 2024.

The cost of interest-bearing liabilities decreased 54 basis points to 3.05% for the year ended December 31, 2025 from 3.59% for the year ended December 31, 2024. Refer to "Financial Condition - Borrowed Funds" above for more details.

Management aims to position the balance sheet to be neutral to changes in interest rates. As a result of the Federal Reserve's rate cuts which began in September 2024 and continued throughout 2025, the Treasury yield curve has become less inverted in recent months, with shorter-term interest rates decreasing.

This trend positively impacts the Company's net interest income, net interest spread, and net interest margin. Management anticipates that net interest margin will increase as deposit and wholesale funding costs decrease more rapidly than loan yields. If the Federal Reserve cuts rates in the near term, net interest income and net interest margin will be highly dependent on the Company's ability and timing to reduce deposit pricing as well as the overall mix of funding.

Interest Income—Loans and Leases

Year Ended December 31,Dollar ChangePercent Change
20252024
(Dollars in Thousands)
Interest income—loans and leases:
Commercial real estate loans$411,229$326,877$84,35225.8%
Commercial loans116,99472,45044,54461.5%
Equipment financing101,022106,329(5,307)(5.0)%
Residential mortgage loans99,30251,17148,13194.1%
Other consumer loans39,00731,1027,90525.4%
Total interest income—loans and leases (1)$767,554$587,929$179,62530.6%

(1) Tax-exempt income of $2.6 million at December 31, 2025 and $1.3 million at December 31, 2024 is excluded from the table above.

Interest income from loans and leases was $767.6 million for 2025, and represented a yield on total loans of 6.14%. This compares to $587.9 million of interest on loans and leases and a yield of 6.07% for 2024. The $179.6 million increase in interest income from loans and leases was primarily attributable to an increase of $164.4 million in volume and an increase of $16.6 million in interest rates changes, partially offset by a decrease of $1.4 million in tax-exempt income. The year over year increase in interest income from loans and leases was impacted by the Transaction.

52

Table of Contents

Interest Income—Investments

Year Ended December 31,Dollar ChangePercent Change
20252024
(Dollars in Thousands)
Interest income—investments:
Debt securities$40,775$26,252$14,52355.3%
Marketable and restricted equity securities4,8915,786(895)(15.5)%
Short-term investments19,5688,55411,014128.8%
Total interest income—investments$65,234$40,592$24,64260.7%

Total investment income was $65.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2025 compared to $40.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2024. As of December 31, 2025, the yield on total investments was 3.89% compared to 3.70% as of December 31, 2024. This year over year increase in total investment income of $24.6 million, or 60.7%, was driven by a $22.2 million increase due to volume and a $2.4 million increase due to rates. The year over year increase in total investment income was impacted by the Transaction.

Interest Expense—Deposits and Borrowed Funds

Year Ended December 31,Dollar ChangePercent Change
20252024
(Dollars in Thousands)
Interest expense:
Deposits:
NOW accounts$6,778$4,543$2,23549.2%
Savings accounts48,50246,2202,2824.9%
Money market accounts88,05560,79627,25944.8%
Certificate of deposit accounts102,42476,13426,29034.5%
Brokered deposit accounts34,74145,270(10,529)(23.3)%
Total interest expense—deposits280,500232,96347,53720.4%
Borrowed funds:
Advances from the FHLB37,51155,851(18,340)(32.8)%
Subordinated debentures and notes9,4366,0743,36255.4%
Other borrowed funds2,2354,048(1,813)(44.8)%
Total interest expense—borrowed funds49,18265,973(16,791)(25.5)%
Total interest expense$329,682$298,936$30,74610.3%

Deposits

In 2025, interest paid on deposits increased $47.5 million, or 20.4%, compared to 2024. The increase in interest expense on deposits was driven by an increase of $77.5 million primarily driven by the growth in volume of average customer deposits and payroll deposits partially offset by a decline in average brokered deposits balance, offset by a decrease of $29.9 million due to lower interest rates. For the year ended December 31, 2025, purchase accounting amortization was $2.1 million on acquired deposits and one basis point, compared to $1.0 million and one basis point for the year ended December 31, 2024.

Borrowed Funds

As of December 31, 2025, the Company's borrowed funds include $555.8 million in FHLB borrowings, $198.6 million in subordinated debentures and notes, and $34.0 million in other borrowed funds. In 2025, the average balance of FHLB borrowings decreased $297.6 million, or 26.5%, the average balance of other borrowed funds decreased $29.5 million, or 37.4%, and the average balance of subordinated debentures and notes increased $38.2 million, or 45.4%, for the year ended December 31, 2025.

For the year ended December 31, 2025, interest paid on borrowed funds decreased $16.8 million, or 25.5%, year over year. The cost of borrowed funds decreased to 4.86% for the year ended December 31, 2025 from 5.04% for the year ended December 31, 2024. The decrease in interest expense was driven by a decrease of $12.3 million due to volume and a decrease

53

Table of Contents

of $4.5 million due to borrowing rates. For the year ended December 31, 2025, purchase accounting amortization was $0.2 million on acquired borrowed funds compared to amortization of $0.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2024.

The year over year fluctuation in interest expense on deposits and borrowed funds was impacted by the Transaction.

Provision for Credit Losses

The provisions for credit losses are set forth below:

Year Ended December 31,
20252024
(In Thousands)
Provision (credit) for credit losses:
Commercial real estate$8,422$(2,814)
Commercial27,51334,716
Consumer(2,320)187
Total provision (credit) for loan and lease losses33,61532,089
Unfunded credit commitments7,765(10,086)
Investment securities available-for-sale12(359)
Total provision (credit) for credit losses$41,392$21,644

For the year ended December 31, 2025, the provision for credit losses increased $19.7 million to $41.4 million from $21.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2024. The increase was driven by the day 1 provision on unfunded commitments assumed through the Transaction compared to a release in unfunded commitment reserve in 2024.

See management’s discussion of “Financial Condition — Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses” and Note 7, “Allowance for Credit Losses,” to the audited consolidated financial statements for a description of how management determined the allowance for loan and lease losses for each portfolio and class of loans.

Non-Interest Income

The following table sets forth the components of non-interest income:

Year Ended December 31,Dollar ChangePercent Change
20252024
(Dollars in Thousands)
Deposit fees$19,681$10,548$9,13386.6%
Loan fees4,0582,3941,66469.5%
Loan level derivative income, net1,4221,658(236)(14.2)%
Gain on sales of loans and leases5,6179514,666490.6%
Wealth management fees9,7485,9903,75862.7%
Other9,3674,0745,293129.9%
Total non-interest income$49,893$25,615$24,27894.8%

Deposit fees increased $9.1 million, or 86.6%, to $19.7 million compared to $10.5 million for the same period in 2024, primarily driven by activity due to the Transaction.

Gain on sales of loans and leases increased $4.7 million, or 490.6%, to $5.6 million compared to $1.0 million for the same period in 2024, primarily driven by the activity of 44 Business Capital which was assumed in the Transaction.

Wealth management fees increased $3.8 million, or 62.7%, to $9.7 million compared to $6.0 million for the same period in 2024, primarily driven by activity due to the Transaction.

Other non-interest income increased $5.3 million or 129.9%, to $9.4 million compared to $4.1 million for the same period in 2024, primarily driven by activity due to the Transaction.

54

Table of Contents

Non-Interest Expense

The following table sets forth the components of non-interest expense:

Year Ended December 31,Dollar ChangePercent Change
20252024
(Dollars in Thousands)
Compensation and employee benefits$191,203$143,723$47,48033.0%
Occupancy29,86822,0567,81235.4%
Equipment and data processing44,71727,37417,34363.4%
Professional services8,0897,13395613.4%
FDIC insurance7,8128,044(232)(2.9)%
Advertising and marketing5,9795,24073914.1%
Amortization of identified intangible assets15,2256,7468,479125.7%
Merger and restructuring expense61,6974,20157,4961368.6%
Other25,15517,3487,80745.0%
Total non-interest expense$389,745$241,865$147,88061.1%

Compensation and employee benefits expense increased $47.5 million, or 33.0%, to $191.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2025 from $143.7 million for the same period in 2024. The increase was primarily driven by activity due to the Transaction.

Equipment and data expense increased $17.3 million, or 63.4%, to $44.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2025 from $27.4 million for the same period in 2024. The increase was primarily driven by activity due to the Transaction.

Merger and restructuring expense increased $57.5 million to $61.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2025 from $4.2 million for the same period in 2024 as a result of the Transaction.

The efficiency ratio increased to 70.48% for the year ended December 31, 2025 from 68.09% for the same period in 2024.

Provision for Income Taxes

Year Ended December 31,Dollar ChangePercent Change
20252024
(Dollars in Thousands)
Income before provision for income taxes$121,862$91,691$30,17132.9%
Provision for income taxes31,59122,9768,61537.5%
Net income,$90,271$68,715$21,55631.4%
Effective tax rate25.9%25.1%N/A3.2%

The Company recorded income tax expense of $31.6 million for 2025, compared to $23.0 million for 2024. This represents an effective tax rate of 25.9% and 25.1% for 2025 and 2024, respectively.

Comparison of Years Ended December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023

Net Interest Income

Net interest income decreased $10.1 million to $329.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 from $339.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2023. The decrease year over year reflects a $61.4 million increase in interest expense on deposits and borrowings, along with a $3.0 million decrease in interest income on debt securities, short term investments and restricted equity securities, partially offset by a $54.2 million increase in interest income on loans and leases which is reflective of the increase in volume and interest rate environment.

Net interest margin decreased 18 basis points to 3.06% in 2024 from 3.24% in 2023. The Company's weighted average interest rate on loans increased to 6.07% for the year ended December 31, 2024 from 5.72% for the year ended December 31, 2023.

55

Table of Contents

The yield on interest-earning assets increased to 5.83% for the year ended December 31, 2024 from 5.50% for the year ended December 31, 2023. The increase is the result of higher yields on loans and leases and investments. The Company recorded $3.4 million in prepayment penalties and late charges, which contributed 3 basis points to yields on interest-earning assets for the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to $2.9 million, or 3 basis points, for the year ended December 31, 2023.

The cost of interest-bearing liabilities increased 59 basis points to 3.59% for the year ended December 31, 2024 from 3.00% for the year ended December 31, 2023. Refer to "Financial Condition - Borrowed Funds" above for more details.

Management aims to position the balance sheet to be neutral to changes in interest rates. As a result of the Federal

Reserve's rate cut which began in September and continued into the fourth quarter, the Treasury yield curve has become less inverted in recent months, with shorter-term interest rates decreasing.

This trend positively impacts the Company's net interest income, net interest spread, and net interest margin. Management anticipates that net interest margin will increase as deposit and wholesale funding costs decrease more rapidly than loan yields. If the Federal Reserve cuts rates in the near term, net interest income and net interest margin will be highly dependent on the Company's ability and timing to reduce deposit pricing as well as the overall mix of funding.

Interest Income—Loans and Leases

Year Ended December 31,Dollar ChangePercent Change
20242023
(Dollars in Thousands)
Interest income—loans and leases:
Commercial real estate loans$326,877$307,652$19,2256.2%
Commercial loans72,45058,87813,57223.1%
Equipment financing106,32992,11214,21715.4%
Residential mortgage loans51,17146,3504,82110.4%
Other consumer loans31,10228,7472,3558.2%
Total interest income—loans and leases$587,929$533,739$54,19010.2%

Interest income from loans and leases was $587.9 million for 2024, and represented a yield on total loans of 6.07%. This compares to $533.7 million of interest on loans and leases and a yield of 5.72% for 2023. The $54.2 million increase in interest income from loans and leases was primarily due to an increase of $31.2 million related to interest rates changes, and an increase of $23.0 million in origination volume.

Interest Income—Investments

Year Ended December 31,Dollar ChangePercent Change
20242023
(Dollars in Thousands)
Interest income—investments:
Debt securities$26,252$29,648$(3,396)(11.5)%
Marketable and restricted equity securities5,7865,5712153.9%
Short-term investments8,5548,3292252.7%
Total interest income—investments$40,592$43,548$(2,956)(6.8)%

Total investment income was $40.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to $43.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2023. As of December 31, 2024, the yield on total investments was 3.70% compared to 3.72% as of December 31, 2023. This year over year decrease in total investment income of $3.0 million, or 6.8%, was driven by a $2.1 million decrease due to volume and a $0.9 million decrease due to rates.

56

Table of Contents

Interest Expense—Deposits and Borrowed Funds

Year Ended December 31,Dollar ChangePercent Change
20242023
(Dollars in Thousands)
Interest expense:
Deposits:
NOW accounts$4,543$4,275$2686.3%
Savings accounts46,22027,97418,24665.2%
Money market accounts60,79658,1532,6434.5%
Certificate of deposit accounts76,13444,12232,01272.6%
Brokered deposit accounts45,27041,1414,12910.0%
Total interest expense—deposits232,963175,66557,29832.6%
Borrowed funds:
Advances from the FHLB55,85152,4673,3846.4%
Subordinated debentures and notes6,0745,47659810.9%
Other borrowed funds4,0483,968802.0%
Total interest expense—borrowed funds65,97361,9114,0626.6%
Total interest expense$298,936$237,576$61,36025.8%

Deposits

In 2024, interest paid on deposits increased $57.3 million, or 32.6%, compared to 2023. The increase in interest expense on deposits was driven by an increase of $41.9 million due to higher interest rates and an increase of $15.4 million primarily driven by the growth in volume of certificate of deposit balances and savings accounts. For the year ended December 31, 2024, purchase accounting amortization was $1.0 million on acquired deposits and one basis point, compared to $1.3 million and one basis point for the year ended December 31, 2023.

Borrowed Funds

As of December 31, 2024, the Company's borrowed funds include $1.4 billion in FHLB borrowings, $84.3 million in subordinated debentures and notes, and $79.6 million in other borrowed funds. In 2024, the average balance of FHLB borrowings increased $31.4 million, or 2.9%, the average balance of other borrowed funds, which includes repurchase agreements and other borrowings, decreased $45.9 million, or 36.8%, and the average balance of subordinated debentures and notes increased $142.0 thousand, or 0.2%, for the year ended December 31, 2024.

For the year ended December 31, 2024, interest paid on borrowed funds increased $4.1 million, or 6.6%, year over year. The cost of borrowed funds increased to 5.04% for the year ended December 31, 2024 from 4.69% for the year ended December 31, 2023. The increase in interest expense was driven by an increase of $4.3 million due to borrowing rates partially offset by a decrease of $0.2 million due to volume. For the year ended December 31, 2024, purchase accounting amortization was $0.2 million on acquired borrowed funds compared to amortization of $0.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2023.

57

Table of Contents

Provision for Credit Losses

The provisions for credit losses are set forth below:

Year Ended December 31,
20242023
(In Thousands)
Provision (credit) for credit losses:
Commercial real estate$(2,814)$14,328
Commercial34,71621,537
Consumer1872,838
Total provision (credit) for loan and lease losses32,08938,703
Unfunded credit commitments(10,086)(835)
Investment securities available-for-sale$(359)$339
Total provision (credit) for credit losses$21,644$38,207

For the year ended December 31, 2024, the provision for credit losses decreased $16.6 million to $21.6 million from $38.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2023. The decrease in the provision for 2024 was largely driven by the lack of a day one provision of $16.7 million in acquired loans as a result of the PCSB acquisition.

See management’s discussion of “Financial Condition — Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses” and Note 7, “Allowance for Credit Losses,” to the audited consolidated financial statements for a description of how management determined the allowance for loan and lease losses for each portfolio and class of loans.

Non-Interest Income

The following table sets forth the components of non-interest income:

Year Ended December 31,Dollar ChangePercent Change
20242023
(Dollars in Thousands)
Deposit fees$10,548$11,611$(1,063)(9.2)%
Loan fees2,3942,03635817.6%
Loan level derivative income, net1,6583,890(2,232)(57.4)%
Gain (loss) on sales of investment securities, net1,704(1,704)(100.0)%
Gain on sales of loans and leases9512,581(1,630)(63.2)%
Other10,06410,112(48)(0.5)%
Total non-interest income$25,615$31,934$(6,319)(19.8)%

For the year ended December 31, 2024, non-interest income decreased $6.3 million, or 19.8%, to $25.6 million compared to $31.9 million for the same period in 2023. The decrease was primarily driven by decreases of 2.2 million in loan level derivative income, net, $1.7 million in gain on sales of investment securities, net, and $1.6 million in gain on sales of loans and leases.

Loan level derivative income, net, decreased $2.2 million, or 57.4%, to $1.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 from $3.9 million for the same period in 2023, driven by lower levels of swap deals in 2024.

There was no gain on sales of investment securities for the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to a gain of $1.7 million for the same period in 2023, driven by a $1.7 million gain on sales of investments from the repositioning of the PCSB portfolio in 2023 and no sales of investment securities in 2024.

Gain on sales of loans and leases decreased $1.6 million, or 63.2%, to $1.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 from $2.6 million for the same period in 2023, driven by a decrease in loan participations in 2024.

58

Table of Contents

Non-Interest Expense

The following table sets forth the components of non-interest expense:

Year Ended December 31,Dollar ChangePercent Change
20242023
(Dollars in Thousands)
Compensation and employee benefits$143,723$138,895$4,8283.5%
Occupancy22,05620,2031,8539.2%
Equipment and data processing27,37427,0043701.4%
Professional services7,1337,226(93)(1.3)%
FDIC insurance8,0447,8442002.5%
Advertising and marketing5,2404,72451610.9%
Amortization of identified intangible assets6,7467,840(1,094)(14.0)%
Merger and restructuring expense4,2017,411(3,210)(43.3)%
Other17,34818,377(1,029)(5.6)%
Total non-interest expense$241,865$239,524$2,3411.0%

For the year ended December 31, 2024, non-interest expense increased $2.3 million, or 1.0%, to $241.9 million compared to $239.5 million for the same period in 2023. The increase was primarily driven by increases of $4.8 million in compensation and employee benefits and $1.9 million in occupancy expense, partially offset by decreases of $3.2 million in merger and restructuring expense, 1.1 million in amortization of identified intangible assets, and 1.0 million in other expenses.

The efficiency ratio increased to 68.09% for the year ended December 31, 2024 from 64.45% for the same period in 2023. The increase year over year was primarily driven by lower net interest income and non-interest income, and higher non-interest expense in 2024.

Compensation and employee benefits expense increased $4.8 million, or 3.5%, to $143.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 from $138.9 million for the same period in 2023. The increase was primarily driven by higher incentive/bonus, salaries, and health care benefits expenses.

Occupancy expense increased $1.9 million, or 9.2%, to $22.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 from $20.2 million for the same period in 2023. The increase was primarily driven by higher building maintenance, leasehold improvement depreciation, and rent expenses.

Merger and restructuring expense decreased $3.2 million, or 43.3%, to $4.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 from $7.4 million for the same period in 2023. The decrease was driven by higher merger-related expenses due to the PCSB acquisition in 2023, compared to Berkshire Hills Bancorp merger-related expenses and restructuring costs at Eastern Funding in 2024.

Provision for Income Taxes

Year Ended December 31,Dollar ChangePercent Change
20242023
(Dollars in Thousands)
Income before provision for income taxes$91,691$93,914$(2,223)(2.4)%
Provision for income taxes22,97618,9154,06121.5%
Net income,$68,715$74,999$(6,284)(8.4)%
Effective tax rate25.1%20.1%N/A24.9%

The Company recorded income tax expense of $23.0 million for 2024, compared to $18.9 million for 2023. This represents an effective tax rate of 25.1% and 20.1% for 2024 and 2023, respectively. The increase in the Company's effective tax rate was due to the lack of participation in energy tax credit investments in 2024 compared to 2023 as well as an increase in merger and restructuring expenses which were not tax deductible during the period.

59

Table of Contents

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Liquidity

Liquidity is defined as the ability to meet current and future financial obligations of a short-term nature. The Company further defines liquidity as the ability to respond to the needs of depositors and borrowers, as well as to earnings enhancement opportunities, in a changing marketplace. Liquidity management is monitored by an ALCO, consisting of members of management, which is responsible for establishing and monitoring liquidity targets as well as strategies and tactics to meet these targets. The primary source of funds for the payment of dividends and expenses by the Company are dividends paid to it by the Bank. The primary sources of liquidity for the Bank consist of deposit inflows, loan repayments, borrowed funds, maturing investment securities and net income.

In the fourth quarter, the Company operated with increased liquidity. During the year, the Company shifted its balance sheet asset mix to include additional cash. Management will continue to monitor the economic conditions and evaluate changes to the Company’s liquidity position.

The Company held higher levels of on balance sheet liquidity in the form of cash and available-for-sale securities in the fourth quarter due to the Transaction. Cash and equivalents at the end of the quarter were $2.0 billion, or 8.8% of the balance sheet, compared to $543.6 million, or 4.6% of the balance sheet, as of December 31, 2024, primarily driven by elevated payroll deposits as a result of the Transaction. In general, in a normal operating environment, the Company seeks to maintain liquidity levels of cash, cash equivalents and investment securities available-for-sale of between 10% and 14% of total assets. As of December 31, 2025, cash, cash equivalents and investment securities available-for-sale totaled $3.7 billion, or 16.1% of total assets. This compares to $1.4 billion, or 12.1% of total assets, as of December 31, 2024. The increase was impacted by the Transaction.

Deposits, which are considered the most stable source of liquidity, totaled $19.5 billion as of December 31, 2025 and represented 96.1% of total funding (the sum of total deposits and total borrowings), compared to deposits of $8.9 billion, or 85.4% of total funding, as of December 31, 2024, primarily due to the deposits assumed in the Transaction. Core deposits, which consist of demand checking, NOW, savings and non-payroll money market accounts, totaled $13.1 billion as of December 31, 2025 and represented 67.0% of total deposits, compared to core deposits of $6.1 billion, or 69.1% of total deposits, as of December 31, 2024. Additionally, the Company had $410.4 million of brokered deposits as of December 31, 2025, which represented 2.1% of total deposits, compared to $869.0 million or 9.8% of total deposits, as of December 31, 2024. The Company offers attractive interest rates based on market conditions to increase deposits balances, while managing cost of funds.

Borrowings are used to diversify the Company's funding mix and to support asset growth. When profitable lending and investment opportunities exist, access to borrowings provides a means to grow the balance sheet. Borrowings totaled $0.8 billion as of December 31, 2025, representing 3.9% of total funding, compared to $1.5 billion, or 14.6% of total funding, as of December 31, 2024 as combined liquidity as a result of the Transaction and the increase in deposits allowed for reduction in borrowings. Management will continue to monitor economic conditions and make adjustments to the balance sheet mix as appropriate.

As members of the FHLB of Boston, the Bank has access to both short- and long-term borrowings. The Company's remaining borrowing capacity from the FHLB of Boston for advances and repurchase agreements was $3.9 billion as of December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively, based on the level of qualifying collateral available for these borrowings.

As of December 31, 2025, the Bank also has access to funding through certain uncommitted lines via AFX as well as other large financial institution specific lines.

The Company had a $50.0 million committed line of credit for contingent liquidity as of December 31, 2025.

The Company has access to the Federal Reserve Discount Window to supplement its liquidity. The Company has $601.9 million of borrowing capacity at the FRB as of December 31, 2025.

As of December 31, 2025, the Company did not have any borrowings outstanding with the FRB nor with these committed and uncommitted lines.

Additionally, the Bank has access to liquidity through repurchase agreements and brokered deposits.

While management believes that the Company has adequate liquidity to meet its commitments, and to fund the Banks lending and investment activities, the availabilities of these funding sources are subject to broad economic conditions and could be restricted in the future. Such restrictions would impact the Company's immediate liquidity and/or additional liquidity needs.

60

Table of Contents

Capital Resources

As of December 31, 2025 and 2024, the Company and the Bank were under the primary regulation of and required to comply with the capital requirements of the FRB. At those dates, the Company and the Bank exceeded all regulatory capital requirements and the Bank was considered "well-capitalized." See "Supervision and Regulation" in Item 1 and Note 19, "Regulatory Capital Requirements", for the Company's and the Bank's actual and required capital amounts and ratios.

Off-Balance-Sheet Arrangements

The Company is party to off-balance sheet financial instruments in the normal course of business to meet the financing needs of its customers and to reduce its own exposure to fluctuations in interest rates. These financial instruments include loan commitments, standby and commercial letters of credit and loan level derivatives. According to GAAP, these financial instruments are not recorded in the financial statements until they are funded or related fees are incurred or received. The effect of such activity on the Company's financial condition and results of operations, such as recorded liability for unfunded credit commitment, is immaterial. See Note 13, "Commitments and Contingencies," to the consolidated financial statements for a description of off-balance-sheet financial instruments.

61

Table of Contents

MD&A history

Prior-year 10-K MD&A spans are extracted from SEC filings with the same bounded parser used for the latest filing. The latest 10-K appears above; prior years are below.

FY 2024 10-K MD&A

SEC filing source: 0001108134-25-000003.

Extracted structurally from real Item 7 body heading to real Item 7A/8 boundary. Confidence: high. Filing date: 2025-03-03. Report date: 2024-12-31.

ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

The following summary data is based in part on the Consolidated Financial Statements and accompanying notes, and other schedules appearing elsewhere in this Form 10-K. Historical data is also based in part on, and should be read in conjunction with, prior filings with the SEC.

At or For the Years Ended December 31,
(In thousands, except per share data)20242023202220212020
Per Common Share Data:
Net earnings/(loss), diluted - continuing operations$1.43$1.60$2.02$2.39$(10.21)
Net (loss), diluted - discontinued operations(0.39)
Net earnings/(loss), diluted$1.43$1.60$2.02$2.39$(10.60)
Total book value per common share25.1523.2721.5124.3023.37
Dividends0.720.720.540.480.72
Common stock price:
High32.3631.5231.7829.1633.04
Low20.5018.0723.6216.358.55
Close28.4324.8329.9028.4317.12
Performance Ratios: (1)
Return on assets0.52%0.59%0.82%0.98%(4.15)%
Return on equity5.847.078.709.9637.15
Return on tangible common equity (2)6.277.609.2910.57(46.88)
Net interest margin, fully taxable equivalent ("FTE") (3)3.163.273.262.602.72
Growth Ratios:
Total commercial loans7.32%5.66%12.99%(12.09)%(4.58)%
Total loans3.828.4522.11(15.54)14.95
Total deposits(2.43)2.962.57(1.44)(1.16)
Earnings per share, (compared to prior year)(10.63)(20.79)(15.48)122.55(638.07)
Selected Financial Data:
Total assets$12,273,408$12,430,821$11,662,864$11,554,913$12,838,013
Total earning assets11,522,56211,704,51510,913,06910,899,10912,089,939
Securities1,188,8592,033,4362,033,4362,548,5902,223,417
Total loans9,384,9949,039,6868,335,3096,825,8478,081,519
Allowance for credit losses(114,700)(105,357)(96,270)(106,094)(127,302)
Total intangible assets15,06419,66424,48326,61934,819
Total deposits10,375,20410,633,38410,327,26910,068,95310,215,808
Total borrowings438,094125,509125,509110,844571,637
Total shareholders’ equity1,167,4241,012,221954,0621,182,4351,187,773

48

Table of Contents

At or For the Years Ended December 31,
20242023202220212020
Selected Operating Data:
Total interest and dividend income$613,938$576,299$387,257$329,065$409,782
Total interest expense262,352207,25242,66037,89993,000
Net interest income351,586369,047344,597291,166316,782
Fee income68,52765,28163,99584,46269,990
All other non-interest income/(loss)(20,113)(22,499)4,94258,786(3,683)
Total net revenue400,000411,829413,534434,414383,089
Provision for credit losses23,99931,99911,000(500)75,878
Total non-interest expense296,486301,508288,716285,893840,239
Income/(loss) from continuing operations before income taxes79,51578,322113,818149,021(533,028)
Income tax expense/(benefit) from continuing operations18,5128,72421,28530,357(19,853)
Net income/(loss) from continuing operations61,00369,59892,533118,664(513,175)
(Loss)/income from discontinued operations before income taxes(26,855)
Income tax (benefit)/expense from discontinued operations(7,013)
Net (loss)/income from discontinued operations(19,842)
Net income/(loss)$61,003$69,598$92,533$118,664$(533,017)
Basic earnings/(loss) per common share:
Continuing operations$1.44$1.61$2.03$2.41$(10.21)
Discontinued operations(0.39)
Total basic earnings/(loss) per share$1.44$1.61$2.03$2.41$(10.60)
Diluted earnings/(loss) per common share:
Continuing operations$1.43$1.60$2.02$2.39$(10.21)
Discontinued operations(0.39)
Total diluted earnings/(loss) per share$1.43$1.60$2.02$2.39$(10.60)
Weighted average common shares outstanding - basic42,50843,28845,56449,24050,270
Weighted average common shares outstanding - diluted42,76143,50445,91449,55450,270
Dividends per preferred share$$$$1.20$1.84
Dividends per common share$0.72$0.72$0.54$0.48$0.72
Asset Quality and Condition Ratios:
Net loans charged-off/average loans0.16%0.26%0.27%0.29%0.41%
Allowance for credit losses/total loans1.221.171.151.551.58
Loans/deposits9085816879
Capital Ratios:
Tier 1 capital to average assets - Company10.97%9.65%10.18%10.49%9.38%
Total capital to risk-weighted assets - Company15.4514.3614.6017.3216.10
Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets - Company13.2212.2712.6015.3014.06
Shareholders’ equity/total assets9.518.148.1810.239.25

___________________________________

(1)  All performance ratios are annualized and are based on average balance sheet amounts, where applicable.

(2) Non-GAAP financial measure. Refer to "Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures" for additional information.

(3)    Fully taxable equivalent considers the impact of tax advantaged investment securities and loans.

49

Table of Contents

Average Balances, Interest and Average Yields/Cost

The following table presents an analysis of average rates and yields on a fully taxable equivalent basis for the years presented. Tax exempt interest revenue is shown on a tax-equivalent basis for proper comparison.

Item 7 - Table 1 - Average Balance, Interest and Average Yields / Costs

202420232022
(Dollars in millions)Average BalanceInterestAverage Yield/ RateAverage BalanceInterestAverage Yield/ RateAverage BalanceInterestAverage Yield/ Rate
Assets
Loans: (1)(2)
Commercial real estate$4,673.2$307.66.48%$4,326.8$272.56.30%$3,836.2$167.64.37%
Commercial and industrial loans1,388.6106.97.571,455.9107.97.411,435.374.75.20
Residential loans2,691.2114.34.252,512.398.13.911,784.263.33.55
Consumer loans423.030.37.13518.537.87.29556.832.15.77
Total loans9,176.0559.16.048,813.5516.35.867,612.5337.74.44
Investment securities (2)(3)1,435.735.72.492,186.650.82.322,489.751.22.06
Short-term investments and loans held for sale (4)528.725.74.86372.417.14.59569.14.90.86
New York branch loans held for sale26.31.55.71
Total interest-earning assets11,166.7622.05.5111,372.5584.25.1410,671.3393.83.69
Intangible assets17.121.926.8
Other non-interest earning assets (4)499.3443.2518.2
Total assets$11,683.1$11,837.6$11,216.3
Liabilities and shareholders' equity
Deposits:
Non-interest-bearing demand deposits$2,283.7$%$2,584.6$%$2,914.9$%
NOW and other767.411.11.45%1,048.914.91.42%1,416.76.10.43%
Money market2,993.196.83.232,727.365.62.402,809.113.80.49
Savings1,011.810.91.071,067.26.10.571,114.80.40.03
Certificates of deposit2,480.2104.34.202,275.872.43.181,541.713.10.85
Total deposits9,536.2223.12.399,703.8159.01.649,797.233.40.34
Borrowings and notes (4)624.934.35.42913.648.35.29176.19.25.24
New York branch non-interest-bearing deposits held for sale45.4
New York branch interest-bearing deposits held for sale181.65.02.75
Total funding liabilities10,388.1262.42.5210,617.4207.31.959,973.342.60.43
Other non-interest-bearing liabilities250.8236.3180.1
Total liabilities10,638.910,853.710,153.4
Total shareholders' equity1,044.2983.91,062.9
Total liabilities and equity$11,683.1$11,837.6$11,216.3
Net interest margin (5)3.163.273.26
Supplementary data
Net Interest Income, non FTE$351.6$369.0$344.6
FTE income adjustment8.07.96.6
Net Interest Income, FTE359.6376.9351.2

50

Table of Contents

_________________________________

Notes:

(1) The average balances of loans include nonaccrual loans, and deferred fees and costs.

(2) The yield on tax-exempt loans and securities is computed on a fully tax-equivalent basis using a tax rate of 27%.

(3) The average balance of investment securities is based on amortized cost.

(4) The average balances of borrowings and notes include the finance lease obligation presented under other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets.

(5) Purchase accounting accretion totaled $1.3 million, $0.7 million, and $2.0 million for the years-ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively. The effect of purchase accounting accretion on the net interest margin was an increase in all years, which is shown sequentially as follows beginning with the most recent year and ending with the earliest year: 0.01%, 0.01%, and 0.02%.

51

Table of Contents

Rate/Volume Analysis

The following table presents the effects of rate and volume changes on the fully taxable equivalent net interest income. Tax exempt interest revenue is shown on a tax-equivalent basis for proper comparison. For each category of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities, information is provided with respect to changes attributable to (1) changes in rate (change in rate multiplied by prior year volume), (2) changes in volume (change in volume multiplied by prior year rate), and (3) changes in volume/rate (change in rate multiplied by change in volume) have been allocated proportionately based on the absolute value of the change due to the rate and the change due to volume. There are no out-of-period adjustments included in the rate/volume analysis in the following table.

Item 7 - Table 2 - Rate Volume Analysis

2024 Compared with 20232023 Compared with 2022
(Decrease) Increase Due to(Decrease) Increase Due to
(In thousands)RateVolumeNetRateVolumeNet
Interest income:
Commercial real estate$9,222$25,933$35,155$81,238$23,568$104,806
Commercial and industrial loans2,872(3,865)(993)32,1051,08633,191
Residential loans8,8457,26116,1066,88327,93134,814
Consumer loans(773)(6,757)(7,530)8,004(2,329)5,675
Total loans20,16622,57242,738128,23050,256178,486
Investment securities3,309(18,450)(15,141)6,239(6,628)(389)
Short-term investments and loans held for sale1,0787,5518,62914,416(2,244)12,172
New York branch loans held for sale1,5271,527
Total interest income$24,553$13,200$37,753$148,885$41,384$190,269
Interest expense:
NOW accounts$751$(4,500)$(3,749)$6,380$2,324$8,704
Money market accounts25,1956,03931,23459,450(7,713)51,737
Savings accounts4,2804764,7565,2994535,752
Certificates of deposit30,4551,40831,86360,555(1,271)59,284
Total deposits60,6813,42364,104131,684(6,207)125,477
Borrowings2,189(16,193)(14,004)839,11139,119
New York branch interest-bearing deposits4,9984,998(1,820)(1,820)
Total interest expense$62,870$(7,772)$55,098$131,692$32,904$164,596
Change in net interest income$(38,317)$20,972$(17,345)$17,193$8,480$25,673

52

Table of Contents

NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES

This document contains certain non-GAAP financial measures in addition to results presented in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“GAAP”). These non-GAAP measures are intended to provide the reader with additional supplemental perspectives on operating results, performance trends, and financial condition. Non-GAAP financial measures are not a substitute for GAAP measures; they should be read and used in conjunction with the Company’s GAAP financial information. A reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures to GAAP measures is provided below. In all cases, it should be understood that non-GAAP measures do not depict amounts that accrue directly to the benefit of shareholders. An item which management excludes when computing non-GAAP operating earnings can be of substantial importance to the Company’s results for any particular quarter or year. The Company’s non-GAAP operating earnings information set forth is not necessarily comparable to non-GAAP information which may be presented by other companies. Each non-GAAP measure used by the Company in this report as supplemental financial data should be considered in conjunction with the Company’s GAAP financial information.

The Company utilizes the non-GAAP measure of operating earnings in evaluating operating trends, including components for operating revenue and expense. These measures exclude amounts which the Company views as unrelated to its normalized operations. These items primarily include securities gains/losses, merger costs, and restructuring costs.

In 2024, adjustments were primarily related to the pending merger, branch sales and consolidations, and loss on sale of AFS securities.

In 2023, adjustments were primarily related to branch consolidations, severance charges related to a workforce reduction, and loss on sale of AFS securities. Starting in 2023, fair value adjustments on securities are included in operating income.

In 2022, the restructuring expense adjustment primarily related to the termination of leasehold interests and the write-down of related right of use assets and leasehold improvements in conjunction with branch consolidations and real estate reductions.

The Company calculates certain profitability measures based on its operating revenue, expenses, and earnings. The Company also calculates operating earnings per share based on its measure of adjusted earnings. The Company views these amounts as important to understanding its operating trends, particularly due to the impact of accounting standards related to merger and acquisition activity. Analysts also rely on these measures in estimating and evaluating the Company’s performance. Management also believes that the computation of non-GAAP operating earnings and operating earnings per share may facilitate the comparison of the Company to other companies in the financial services industry.

Due to the anticipated earnings volatility resulting from loan loss provisions reflecting changes in estimates of uncertain future economic conditions under the CECL accounting standard, many users of bank financial statements are focusing on Pre-Provision Net Revenue (“PPNR”). This is a measure of revenue less expenses, and is calculated before the loan loss provision and income tax expense. This measure gives clearer visibility of the operations of the company during the periods presented in the income statements, without the impact of period-end estimates of future uncertain events. This measure also enhances comparisons of operations across different banks, which might have significantly different period-end estimates of uncertain future economic conditions that affect the loan loss provision. Consistent with its previous practices measuring results on an adjusted basis before the impacts of acquisitions, divestitures, and other designated items, the Company has introduced the measure of Operating Pre-Provision Net Revenue (“Operating PPNR”) which measures PPNR excluding adjustments for items not viewed as related to ongoing operations. This measure is now integral to the Company’s analysis of its operations, and is not viewed as a substitute for GAAP measures of net income. Analysts also use this measure in assessing the Company’s operations and in making comparisons across banks. The Company and analysts also measure Operating PPNR/Assets in order to utilize the PPNR measure in assessing its comparative operating profitability. This measure primarily relies on the measures of operating revenue and operating expense already used in the Company’s calculation of its efficiency ratio.

The Company also adjusts certain equity related measures to exclude intangible assets due to the importance of these measures to the investment community.

53

Table of Contents

The following table summarizes the reconciliation of non-GAAP items recorded for the time periods indicated:

At or For the Years Ended
(Dollars in thousands)December 31, 2024December 31, 2023December 31, 2022
GAAP Net income$61,003$69,598$92,533
Non-GAAP measures
Adj: Fair value adjustments on securities (1)2,037
Adj: Loss/(gain) on sale of securities49,93725,057(6)
Adj: Net gains on sale of business operations(16,241)
Adj: Merger, restructuring, conversion, and other related expenses (2)9,4936,2618,909
Adj: Income taxes(9,319)(7,723)(2,940)
Net non-operating charges33,87023,5958,000
Operating net income (non-GAAP)$94,873$93,193$100,533
GAAP Total revenue from continuing operations$400,000$411,829$413,534
Adj: Fair value adjustments on securities2,037
Adj: Loss/(gain) on sale of AFS securities49,93725,057(6)
Adj: Net gains on sale of business operations(16,241)
Operating revenue (non-GAAP)$433,696$436,886$415,565
GAAP Total non-interest expense from continuing operations$296,486$301,508$288,716
Less: Total non-operating expense (see above)(9,493)(6,261)(8,909)
Operating non-interest expense (non-GAAP)$286,993$295,247$279,807
Pre-tax, pre-provision net revenue (PPNR)$103,514$110,321$124,818
Operating pre-tax, pre-provision net revenue (PPNR)146,703141,639135,758
(in millions, except per share data)
Total average assets$11,683$11,838$11,216
Total average shareholders' equity1,0449841,063
Total average tangible shareholders' equity1,0279621,036
Total tangible shareholders’ equity, period-end1,152993930
Total tangible assets, period-end12,25812,41111,638
Total common shares outstanding, period-end (thousands)46,42443,50144,361
Average diluted shares outstanding (thousands)42,76143,50445,914
Earnings per share, diluted$1.43$1.60$2.02
Plus: Net adjustments per share, diluted0.790.540.17
Operating earnings per share, diluted2.222.142.19
Book value per common share, period-end25.1523.2721.51
Tangible book value per common share, period-end24.8222.8220.95
Total shareholders' equity/total assets9.518.148.18
Total tangible shareholders' equity/total tangible assets9.408.007.99

54

Table of Contents

At or For the Years Ended
(Dollars in thousands)December 31, 2024December 31, 2023December 31, 2022
Performance Ratios (5)
Return on equity5.84%7.07%8.70%
Operating return on equity9.099.479.46
Return on tangible common equity (3)6.277.609.29
Operating return on tangible common equity (3)9.5610.0510.07
Return on assets0.520.590.82
Operating return on assets0.810.790.90
Efficiency ratio (4)63.9463.8864.31
Supplementary Data (in thousands)
Tax benefit on tax-credit investmentsN/M$9,863$4,880
Non-interest income charge on tax-credit investmentsN/M(8,018)(3,508)
Net income on tax-credit investmentsN/M1,8451,372
Intangible amortization4,6014,8205,134
Fully taxable equivalent income adjustment7,9857,8706,644

____________________________________

(1)Starting in 2023, fair value adjustments on securities are included in operating income.

(2)Merger, restructuring, conversion, and other related expenses included $6.6 million of merger expenses for the year ended December 31, 2024. Merger, restructuring, conversion, and other related expenses included no merger and acquisition expenses for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022.

(3)Amortization of intangible assets is adjusted assuming a 27% marginal tax rate.

(4)Efficiency ratio is computed by dividing total core tangible non-interest expense by the sum of total net interest income on a fully taxable equivalent basis and total operating non-interest income adjusted to include tax credit benefit of tax shelter investments. The Company uses this non-GAAP measure to provide important information regarding its operational efficiency.

(5)Return on tangible common equity excluding AFS unrealized losses was 5.45%, 6.07%, and 8.26% for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively. Operating return on tangible common equity excluding AFS unrealized losses was 8.32%, 8.03%, and 8.94% for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively.

55

Table of Contents

GENERAL

This discussion is intended to assist readers in understanding the financial condition and results of operations of the Company, the changes in key items in the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements (“financial statements”) from year to year, and the primary reasons for those changes.

The objectives of this section are:

•To provide a narrative explanation of the Company’s financial statements that enables investors to see the company through the eyes of management;

•To enhance the financial disclosure and provide the context within which financial information should be analyzed; and

•To provide information about the quality of, and potential future variability of, the Company’s earnings and cash flow.

This discussion includes the following sections:

•Summary

•Comparison of Operating Results for the Years Ended December 31, 2024 and 2023

•Comparison of Financial Condition at December 31, 2024 and 2023

•Liquidity and Cash Flows

•Capital Resources

•Application of Critical Accounting Policies

•Enterprise Risk Management

•Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability

The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the Company’s financial statements and the notes thereto appearing in Item 8 of this document. In the following discussion, income statement comparisons are against the previous year and balance sheet comparisons are against the previous fiscal year-end, unless otherwise noted. Operating results discussed herein are not necessarily indicative of the results for the year 2025 or any future period. In management’s discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations, certain reclassifications have been made to make prior periods comparable. Tax-equivalent adjustments are the result of increasing income from tax-advantaged loans and securities by an amount equal to the taxes that would be paid if the income were fully taxable based on a 27% marginal rate (including state income taxes net of federal benefit). In the discussion, unless otherwise specified, references to earnings per share and "EPS" refer to diluted earnings per common share.

Berkshire is a Delaware corporation headquartered in Boston and the holding company for the Bank. Established in 1846, the Bank operates as a commercial bank under a Massachusetts trust company charter. On December 16, 2024, the Company entered into a definitive agreement for a merger of equals with Brookline Bancorp, Inc., a Boston-based multi-bank holding company with $11.9 billion in assets and branches in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New York. This merger is targeted to be completed in the second half of 2025, subject to customary shareholder and regulatory approvals, and closing conditions.

56

Table of Contents

SUMMARY

Berkshire reported 2024 net income of $61 million, or $1.43 per share, compared to $70 million, or $1.60 per share, in 2023. The decrease in 2024 was due primarily to higher non-operating losses on the sale of securities.

The Company’s non-GAAP measure of operating income totaled $95 million, or $2.22 per share in 2024, compared to $93 million, or $2.14 per share in 2023. The 4% increase in operating EPS included the benefit of lower credit loss provision expense and lower non-interest expense, together with a 2% reduction in average diluted shares due to ongoing share repurchases.

Berkshire’s 2024 return on assets was 0.52%; the operating return on assets was 0.81%. The return on tangible common equity was 6.3%; the operating return on tangible common equity was 9.6%. The efficiency ratio measured 63.9%. The 2024 shareholder dividend was $0.72 per share in 2024. Period-end book value per share increased 8% to $25.15 and the non-GAAP measure of tangible equity to tangible assets increased 9% to $24.82 for the year.

Operating income and profitability improved sequentially in every quarter of the year, reflecting the cumulative benefit of the Company’s ongoing growth initiatives together with strategic optimization programs. Results also benefited from strong credit discipline, rigorous expense management, investments in new client-facing bankers and enhancements to the digital platform and consumer product offerings. Strategic initiatives included:

•Network Optimization: The Company consolidated four branches in 2023 and three branches in 2024, and additionally exited surplus back-office premises. Staff count was reduced through a workforce realignment in the first half of 2024. The sale of ten New York branches was completed in the third quarter of 2024. The sale concentrated the Bank’s overall geographic footprint and reduced certain expenses. With the branch sale and consolidations, Berkshire’s total branch count was reduced to 83 offices in New England and New York, including 16 offices in its Albany and Rome/Utica markets.

•Sales of Securities: Investment securities were sold in the fourth quarter of 2023 and first quarter of 2024. This allowed the Company to reposition its balance sheet to improve net interest income and to fund the branch sale. The securities were carried at fair value on the Company’s balance sheet and the non-operating losses on sale therefore had no effect on shareholders’ equity.

•Sales of Targeted Loan Portfolios: The Company sold most of its remaining Upstart consumer loan portfolio, which was in run-off mode. In addition to this, the Company also sold a package of $47 million of seasoned residential mortgages.

•Growth Initiatives: During 2024, the Company announced the recruitment of commercial deposit relationship managers and private bankers. Additionally, it announced the planned move and expansion of a Boston branch to bolster its commercial and private banking teams serving the Greater Boston market.

•Digital Enhancements: In the third quarter, the Bank launched Berkshire One, its innovative suite of digital-first banking solutions to complement its branch and concierge banking channels.

Including the impact of branch and loan sales, in 2024 the Company recorded 4% loan growth and a 2% deposit decrease. Excluding the impact of these sales, Berkshire produced 5% loan growth and 1% deposit growth in 2024.

Measures of asset quality remained favorable in 2024. Delinquent and non-performing loans were 0.52% of total period-end loans; this was the lowest quarterly level in nearly two decades. Net loan charge-offs measured 0.16% of average total loans in 2024, compared to 0.26% in the prior year.

Liquidity remained satisfactory in 2024, with the year-end loans to deposits ratio measuring 90% in 2024 compared to 85% in 2023. Total shareholders’ equity increased by $155 million, or 15%, to $1.2 billion during the year, including the proceeds of a $100 million common stock placement in December in conjunction with the merger agreement. The common equity Tier 1 capital ratio stood at 13.0% at year-end 2024.

In response to persistent high inflation, the Federal Reserve Board increased the maximum target federal funds rate beginning in the first quarter of 2022. The rate increased from 0.25% in the first quarter of 2022 to 5.50% in the third quarter of 2023, increasing in each sequential quarter. The target rate remained unchanged until September

57

Table of Contents

2024 and then was reduced by 1.00% in three steps to 4.50% at year-end. Some of the Bank’s loans are indexed to market rates and are the most immediately sensitive to rate changes. The upward move in federal funds in 2022 and 2023 contributed to inversion of the yield curve, which can negatively impact the net interest margin. This inversion began to correct in the second half of 2024, bringing more positive slope to portions of the yield curve.

COMPARISON OF OPERATING RESULTS FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2024 AND 2023

GAAP net income decreased $9 million, or 12%, year-over-year to $61 million in 2024 from $70 million in 2023. This was primarily due to a $25 million increase in non-operating securities losses offset in part by $16 million in non-operating gains on branch sales.

Berkshire improved operating profitability in 2024, with consecutive quarter-over-quarter improvement in operating results throughout the year. The non-GAAP measure of operating income increased $2 million, or 2%, to $95 million in 2024 from $93 million in 2023. A $17 million decrease in net interest income was mostly offset by an $8 million decrease in credit loss provision expense and an $8 million decrease in operating non-interest expense. The additional benefit of a $3 million increase in loan and SBA related revenue contributed to the $2 million increase in total operating income.

Effective January 1, 2024, the Company elected the proportional amortization method for its tax credit equity investments in public welfare investment projects which consist of Affordable Housing and New Market tax credit investments. This election had no material impact on net income. As a result of this election, certain noncash charges which had been posted to non-interest income are now posted to income tax expense. Therefore, non-interest income, total revenue, and tax expense are not comparable on a year-over-year basis. The amount charged against non-interest income in 2023 was $8.0 million compared to $2.5 million credited to non-interest income in 2024.

Year-to-year comparisons of revenue and expense were also impacted by the sale of ten branches toward the end of the third quarter and the sale of investment securities and reinvestment of proceeds into short-term investments in the first quarter to help fund the branch sale. The fourth quarter of 2024 was the first full quarter subsequent to completion of the branch sale.

Due to the change in tax accounting, the efficiency ratio was unchanged at 63.9% in both years. Excluding the impact of tax credits in 2023, the adjusted efficiency ratio was 65.3% in 2023. The improvement in 2024 compared to this adjusted ratio included the benefit of reinvestments of proceeds from securities sales and the reduction in operating expenses in 2024.

Net Interest Income

Net interest income and net interest margin may be affected by many factors, including: changes in average balances; interest rate fluctuations and the slope of the yield curve; sales of loans and securities; residential mortgage loan and mortgage-backed security prepayment rates; product pricing; competitive forces; the relative mix, repricing characteristics and maturity of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities; non-interest-bearing sources of funds; hedging activities; and asset quality.

Net interest income decreased in 2024 by $17 million, or 5%, to $352 million. The net interest margin decreased by 11 basis points, or 3%, to 316 basis points in 2024 from 327 basis points in 2023. Average earning assets decreased by $0.2 billion, or 2%, to $11.2 billion. The decrease in average earning assets was primarily due to the sale of lower yielding investment securities to fund the branch sales and to pay down higher cost borrowings.

The 11 basis point decrease in the net interest margin was primarily due to the 57 basis point increase in the cost of funds, partially offset by the 37 basis point increase in the yield on earning assets. These changes resulted from the ongoing impact of repricings following federal funds rate increases in the period from January 2022 to July 2024.

The increase in the cost of funds was driven by the 75 basis point increase in the cost of deposits. This reflected ongoing repricings in the higher rate and competitive market conditions, and mix shifts from lower cost transaction accounts into higher cost money market and time deposit accounts.

58

Table of Contents

The increase in the yield on earning assets was primarily due to a mix shift from lower yield investment securities to higher yielding loans and short term investments. The loan yield increased 18 basis points as a result of upward repricings of loans.

The net interest margin decreased sequentially on a quarterly basis in 2023, from 3.84% in the fourth quarter of 2022 to 3.11% in the fourth quarter of 2023. This primarily reflected deposit repricings catching up with loan repricings in 2022. It improved to 3.20% in the second quarter of 2024, including the benefit of securities sales and related balance sheet changes. The margin declined to 3.14% in the fourth quarter of 2024 as loan repricings adjusted quickly to the 100 basis reduction in the federal funds rate beginning in September. The margin measured 3.18% in December 2024, as deposit repricings began to accelerate. For the full year 2024, the net interest margin averaged 3.16%, down from 3.27% in 2023 due primarily to deposit repricings in the higher rate and competitive marketplace.

Non-Interest Income

Non-interest income was $48 million in 2024 and $43 million in 2023. As previously noted, due to the tax accounting methodology change, total non-interest income is not comparable between these years. This change is included in the category of other non-interest income, which increased by $12 million. Operating results benefited from a $3 million increase in revenues from loan related fees and gains on SBA loans. Non-interest income in 2024 included the $16 million gain on the branch sale and the $50 million loss on the first quarter sale of securities. In 2023, non-interest income included the $25 million loss on the fourth quarter sale of securities. The securities losses had no impact on total shareholders’ equity. These gains and losses are viewed by the Company as non-operating.

Provision for Credit Losses

Provision expense decreased year-over-year by $8 million, or 25%, to $24 million from $32 million. In part, this reflected a decrease in loan growth to 4% in 2024 from 8% in 2023. Additionally, it reflected an increase in the coverage ratio of the allowance for credit losses on loans to 1.22% at year-end 2024 compared to 1.17% at the prior year-end. Net loan charge-offs totaled $15 million in 2024 compared to $23 million in the prior year.

Non-Interest Expense

Non-interest expense decreased year-over year by $5 million, or 2%, to $296 million. The non-GAAP measure of operating non-interest expense decreased by $8 million, or 3%, to $287 million. This primarily reflected lower operating expenses due to branch sales and consolidations. Non-operating expenses of $9 million in 2024 and $6 million in 2023 included branch and facilities consolidations in both years, and 2024 expenses related to the pending merger.

The largest decrease in operating expense was occupancy and equipment expense, which decreased $4 million or 12%. This included the impact of four branch consolidations in 2023, three branch consolidations in 2024, and ten branches sold in 2024, together with dispositions of other excess properties. Of note, the sales of eight of the branches sold were completed near the end of the third quarter of 2024. All major categories of operating expenses declined year-over-year except for regulatory expense and compensation expense. The Company is focused on efficiencies to reduce overhead and to deepen its investment in frontline staff and customer engagement technology. Full year compensation expense increased 1% year-over-year. Fourth quarter compensation expense decreased 3% year-over-year. Year-end full time equivalent staff totaled 1,216 positions in 2024, a decrease of 124 positions, or 9%, from 1,340 positions at year-end 2023. This decrease included 40 positions which were transferred in the branch sale. All staff related to the ten branches sold were offered employment by the branch buyers. FTE staff was also reduced based on a workforce realignment in the first quarter of the year.

Income Tax Expense

As previously noted, income tax expense in 2024 is not comparable to 2023 and prior years due to the change in the accounting method for certain equity tax credit investments. In 2024, the effective income tax rate was 23%. Differences arising between Berkshire’s effective income tax rate and the U.S. federal statutory rate of 21% are primarily attributable to: (i) tax-exempt interest earned on certain investments; (ii) tax-exempt income from BOLI; (iii) non-deductible merger costs; and (iv) state income taxes.

59

Table of Contents

COMPARISON OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AT DECEMBER 31, 2024 AND DECEMBER 31, 2023

General

Total assets decreased $0.2 billion, or 1%, to $12.3 billion in 2024. A $0.4 billion decrease in investment securities primarily funded the $0.4 billion sale of deposits. Loan growth of $0.2 billion from business activities was primarily funded by deposit growth from business activities. A $100 million common stock issuance offset a decrease in borrowings. With the stock offering and reduction in assets, the ratio of equity to assets increased to 9.5% from 8.1%. Primarily as a result of the deposit sale, the ratio of loans/deposits increased to 90% from 85%

Investment Securities

Investment securities decreased $419 million, or 26%, to $1.2 billion during 2024. This was primarily due to the sale of lower yielding securities near the end of the first quarter. This improved the Company’s liquidity in advance of the branch sale and benefited earnings as the sale proceeds were used to pay down higher cost funds. The yield on the securities portfolio was 2.66% in the fourth quarter of 2024 compared to 2.40% in the fourth quarter of 2023, reflecting the sale of lower coupon securities and the benefit of higher interest rates in the second half of 2024. The unrealized loss on available for sale securities decreased by $47 million in 2024 to $142 million at year-end 2024 due to the $50 million loss realized on the sale of securities in the first quarter.

Loans

Total loans increased $345 million, or 4%, to $9.4 billion in 2024, including commercial loan growth totaling $433 million, or 7%, which was partially offset by a $99 million, or 22%, reduction in consumer loans. During the year, the Company sold $47 million in seasoned residential mortgages and $47 million in consumer loans. Additionally, the Company sold $50 million in residential mortgage and consumer loans as part of the branch sale. Adjusted for these loans sold, total loans increased 5% for the year 2024. The yield on total loans was 5.88% in the most recent quarter, compared to 5.97% in the final quarter of 2023. At year-end 2024, loans repricing within three months were 43% of total loans.

Year-end commercial loans were 67% of total loans at year-end 2024 compared to 65% in 2023. Commercial loan growth was recorded in all major categories of commercial loans, including a 13% increase in construction loans and an 11% increase in owner-occupied commercial real estate loans. Based on the supervisory definition of commercial real estate loans which excludes owner-occupied properties, the supervisory measure of commercial real estate loans to total bank regulatory capital measured 292% at period-end, compared to 286% at year-end 2023. The supervisory measure of construction loans to bank regulatory capital measured 54% and 51% at the above respective dates.

The Company has a diversified commercial real estate portfolio primarily located in suburban markets in its footprint. The commercial real estate loan portfolio increased $353 million, or 8%, to $4.8 million in 2024, and constituted 51% of the total loan portfolio at period-end. There were $1.2 million in net charge-offs of commercial real estate loans in 2024, compared to net recoveries of $0.8 million in 2023. Non-accruing loans were 0.22% of total commercial real estate loans at period-end compared to 0.10% at year-end 2023. For commercial real estate loans, year-end loans rated as criticized increased to 2.93% from 2.44% while loans rated as classified decreased to 1.19% from 1.94% of total loans.

At period-end, the largest property type concentrations (over 5% of the portfolio and excluding construction loans) were retail trade (21%), multifamily (13%), office (10%), healthcare (9%), and hospitality (7%). The largest category, retail trade, was primarily comprised of properties anchored by strong grocery and big box tenants in suburban areas – with no significant tenant concentrations, and negligible indoor mall exposure. The $507 million office portfolio was approximately 71% composed of Class A properties and approximately 79% of the office portfolio was maturing after 2025. Boston properties were approximately 16% of the office portfolio, with no high-rise office buildings. Construction loans consisted primarily of multifamily (approximately 49%) and health care (approximately 13%) at period-end.

60

Table of Contents

Residential mortgage loans comprised 30% of year-end 2024 loans and were up $11 million to $2.8 billion during the year. Consumer loans comprised 4% of loans and decreased 22% to $0.3 billion during the year. This was largely due to targeted run-off and sales of unsecured consumer installment loans.

Allowance for Credit Losses on Loans

Loan performance indicators remained at historically favorable levels in 2024. Total delinquent and non-performing loans measured 0.52% of loans at period-end, the lowest level in nearly two decades. It included non-performing loans measuring 0.26% of total loans at that date.

Net loan charge-offs totaled $15 million, measuring 0.16% of average loans in 2024 and totaled $23 million, measuring 0.26% of average loans in 2023. Consumer loan net charge-offs totaled $9 million in 2024 and $8 million in 2023. Excluding consumer loans, charge-offs of all other loans totaled $5 million and $14 million, measuring 0.06% and 0.17% of all other average loans in those respective years.

Year-end criticized loans/total loans decreased to 2.62% of total loans from in 2024 from 2.71% in 2023, including a reduction in classified loans to 1.20% of loans from 1.69%. Potential problems loans, which are defined as accruing classified loans, decreased to $88 million from $132 million. Improvements in borrower risk ratings have generally reflected borrowers adjusting operations to mitigate the impact of higher interest rates on variable rate loans and to the impact of changing supply/demand conditions.

The allowance for credit losses on loans increased by $9 million, or 9%, to $115 million during 2024. In addition to reflecting the 4% loan growth, this also reflected an increase in the ratio of the allowance to total loans to 1.22% from 1.17%. The increase in reserve coverage reflected increases in all major loan categories except non-owner occupied commercial real estate and other consumer loans. Regarding the former, coverage decreased to 1.39% from 1.47%. Regarding other consumer loans, coverage decreased to 5.11% from 5.46% and the total other consumer allowance decreased by $6 million to $3 million primarily as a result of the sale of Upstart loans. The remaining Upstart loan balance was $7.5 million at year-end 2024. The major contributor to the increase in the total allowance was the commercial and industrial loan portfolio, which accounted for $13 million, or 53%, of the total $24 million credit loss provision expense in 2024. Reflecting higher net loan losses of $6 million in this portfolio, the year-end allowance coverage of these loans was 1.78% at year-end 2024 compared to 1.37% at year-end 2023. Factors contributing to higher coverage in most portfolios included longer expected loan lives and increased qualitative reserves related to macroeconomic and federal policy uncertainties.

Deposits and Borrowings

For the year 2024, total deposits decreased by $258 million, or 2%, to $10.4 billion. This included the sale of $383 million in deposits due to the sale of ten branches in the third quarter. Average deposits in the fourth quarter of 2024 were $9.7 billion, decreasing $277 million, or 3%, from the same quarter of 2023 due to lower average transaction account balances. Excluding the deposits sold, average fourth quarter deposits increased $106 million, or 1%, year-over-year. In recent years, year-end balances included higher overnight balances related to the Company’s payroll deposit service.

The branch sale included $383 million in deposits, consisting of $77 million of non-interest bearing deposits, $25 million of NOW deposits, $77 million of money market deposits, $45 million of savings deposits, and $159 million of time deposits.

Fourth quarter average non-interest bearing deposits were 24% of average deposits in 2024 compared to 25% in 2023. All major categories of average deposits decreased between these two periods, primarily in transaction deposits. The fourth quarter cost of deposits was 2.30% in 2024 compared to 2.11% in 2023. The fourth quarter of 2024 marked the first decline in the cost of deposits since the first quarter of 2022, reflecting market changes following the reduction in the federal funds rate and other market interest rates beginning in the third quarter of 2024.

Total borrowings decreased year-over year by $68 million, or 14%, to $438 million at year-end 2024. The fourth quarter cost of borrowings was 5.20% in 2024 compared to 5.45% in 2023.

61

Table of Contents

Derivative Financial Instruments

The notional amount of derivative financial instruments totaled $4.9 billion at period-end, compared to $4.8 billion at year-end 2023. The net fair value of these instruments at period-end was a liability of $31 million, compared to $30 million at year-end 2023. Included in derivative financial instruments are $800 million in cash flow hedges on commercial loans, of which $275 million mature in 2025, $425 million mature in 2026, and $100 million mature in 2027. The Company recorded a $632 thousand charge to interest expense for the realized loss on cash flow hedging instruments in both 2024 and 2023.

Shareholders’ Equity and Dividends

Total shareholders' equity increased $155 million, or 15%, to $1.2 billion in 2024. This included the benefit of the $100 million common stock placement in December 2024. Equity also benefited from operating income of $95 million and was reduced by $31 million in dividends declared and $18 million in stock repurchases. The $50 million loss on securities recorded in the first quarter of 2024 had no impact on shareholders’ equity, as the after-tax impact on retained earnings was offset by a reduction in the accumulated other comprehensive loss component of equity.

Book value per share increased in 2024 by $1.88, or 8%, to $25.15 at year-end 2024 compared to $23.27 at year-end 2023. The non-GAAP measure of tangible book value per share increased by $2.00, or 9%, to $24.82 from $22.82. Share repurchases in 2024 were accretive to book value measures, based on the average repurchase price of approximately $21.94. The share issuance in December was priced at $29.00 per share.

Reflecting primarily the increase in equity, the year-end ratio of equity to assets increased to 9.5% from 8.1% and the non-GAAP measure of tangible common equity to tangible assets increased to 9.4% from 8.0%. The common equity Tier 1 capital ratio increased to 13.0% from 12.0%.

LIQUIDITY AND CASH FLOWS

Liquidity is defined as the ability to generate sufficient cash flows to meet all present and future funding requirements at reasonable costs for the Company, including the Bank. Liquidity management addresses both the Company’s ability to fund new loans and investments pursuant to commitments and as opportunities arise, to meet customer deposit withdrawals and to repay borrowings and subordinated notes as they mature. The Company views its liquidity as satisfactory for current conditions as well as for stressed scenarios in its liquidity testing models.

At year-end 2024, liquid assets totaling $1.8 billion included cash and equivalents totaling $1.1 billion and securities available for sale totaling $0.7 billion. At year-end 2023 liquid assets were $2.2 billion, including $1.2 billion in cash and equivalents and $1.0 billion in securities available for sale. Year-end liquidity is elevated due to overnight payroll related deposit balances. Securities include assets pledged to support borrowings.

At year-end 2024 wholesale funds, consisting of borrowings and brokered deposits, totaled $0.9 billion, compared to $1.0 billion at year-end 2023.

Unused borrowing availability at period-end from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston “FHLBB” and the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston (“FRB”) totaled $4.1 billion at year-end 2024, compared to $4.0 billion at year-end 2023. Borrowings from these sources are supported by collateral, to the extent utilized. Cash balances at the holding company totaled $164 million at period-end.

During 2024, total cash and equivalents decreased to $1.1 billion from $1.2 billion. The primary sources of funds were securities sales, together with operating activities and the stock issuance. The primary uses of funds were the branch sale and loan growth.

CAPITAL RESOURCES

Please see the Note 17 - Shareholders’ Equity and Earnings per Common Share of the Comparison of Financial Condition for a discussion of shareholders’ equity together with the note on Shareholders' Equity in the consolidated financial statements.

62

Table of Contents

Additional information about capital resources and regulatory capital is contained in the notes to the consolidated financial statements and in Item 1 of this report.

The Company’s goal is to maintain sound capitalization and use capital generation to support organic growth and shareholder distributions in the form of dividends and stock repurchases. The Company’s goal is to maintain a “well-capitalized” regulatory designation under projected and stressed financial projections.

As a result of rising interest rates, available for sale bond portfolios in banks are generally subject to unrealized losses which result in charges against accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”) and reduce the book value of shareholders’ equity. Like many of its peers, the Company utilizes an option in reporting its regulatory equity which excludes changes in AOCI in the calculation of regulatory capital. Reductions in bond valuations due to changes in market interest rates are reversed as bonds approach maturity. These reversals are accreted to AOCI over time, restoring the book value of equity. The balance of AOCI was a loss of $106 million at period-end, compared to a loss of $143 million at year-end 2023. This reduction was primarily due to the after-tax realization of $50 million in losses with the securities sale in the first quarter of 2024.

While the Company monitors the book value of equity and related metrics, it primarily manages capital based on regulatory capital measures, with a focus on the common equity Tier 1 capital ratio. This ratio measured 13.0% at year-end 2024 compared to 12.0% at year-end 2023. This improvement included the benefit of the $100 million capital placement in December 2024.

In acting as a source of strength for the Bank, the Company relies in the long term on capital distributions from the Bank in order to provide operating and capital service for the Company, which in turn can access national financial markets to provide financial support to the Bank. Capital distributions from the Bank to the parent company presently require approval by the FDIC.

APPLICATION OF CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The Company’s significant accounting policies and modifications to significant accounting policies made during the year are described in Note 1 to the financial statements. The preparation of the financial statements is in accordance with GAAP and general practices applicable to the financial services industry. This preparation requires management to make estimates, assumptions, and judgements that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. The judgment and assumptions made are based upon historical experience, future forecasts, or other factors that management believes to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results could differ from those estimates, assumptions, and judgements.

Not all significant accounting policies require management to make difficult, subjective or complex judgments. Certain estimates inherently have a greater reliance on the use of assumptions and judgments and, as such, have a greater possibility of producing results that could be materially different than originally reported. The following significant accounting policies are considered most critical in that they are important to the Company’s financial condition and results, and they require management’s subjective and complex judgment as a result of the need to make estimates about the effects of matters that are inherently uncertain. Both of these most critical accounting policies were significant in determining income and financial condition based on events in 2024.

63

Table of Contents

Allowance for Credit Losses on Loans

The allowance for credit losses on loans (“ACLL”) represents management’s estimate of expected credit losses over the expected contractual life of our loan portfolio. Determining the appropriateness of the ACLL is complex and requires judgment by management about the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain. Subsequent evaluations of the then-existing loan portfolio, in light of the factors then prevailing, may result in significant changes in the ACLL in those future periods.

The estimate of expected credit losses is based on relevant information about current conditions, past events, and reasonable and supportable forward-looking forecasts regarding collectability of the reported amounts. In order to estimate the expected credit losses for loans evaluated on a pooled basis, the Company utilizes a static pool migration methodology which calculates a historical loss rate for each of the identified loan segments. The historical loss rates are then adjusted for current and asset specific characteristics (also referred to as qualitative adjustments) and for expected changes to current conditions over the reasonable and supportable forecast period (also referred to as forecast). The appropriateness of the ACLL could change significantly because current economic conditions and forecasts can change and future events are inherently difficult to predict. It is difficult to estimate how potential changes in any one economic factor or input might affect the overall allowance because a wide variety of factors and inputs are considered in estimating the allowance and changes in those factors and inputs considered may not occur at the same rate and may not be consistent across all product types. Additionally, changes in factors and inputs may be directionally inconsistent, such that improvement in one factor may offset deterioration in others. One of the most significant judgments used in determining the allowance for credit losses is the macroeconomic forecast provided by a third party. Changes in the macroeconomic forecast, especially for the national unemployment rate, could significantly impact the calculated estimated credit losses.

While management utilizes its best judgment and information available, the ultimate adequacy of our ACLL is dependent upon a variety of factors beyond our control, including the performance of our portfolios, the economy, and changes in interest rates. For detailed information on the ACLL see Note 1- Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Note 5 – Loans and Related Allowance for Credit Losses.

Fair Value Measurements

The Company uses fair value measurements to determine fair value disclosures and to record fair value adjustments to certain assets and liabilities, such as interest rate swaps, individually evaluated loans, securities available for sale, and derivatives. Our fair values are based on the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. Additionally, from time to time, the Company may be required to record certain assets at fair value on a non-recurring basis, such as certain individually evaluated loans held for investment and capitalized servicing rights. These non-recurring fair value adjustments typically involve write-downs of individual assets due to application of lower-of-cost or market accounting or other accounting standards.

Management has established and documented a process for determining fair value. The use of observable inputs is maximized and the use of unobservable inputs is minimized when developing fair value measurements. Whenever there is no readily available market data, management uses its best estimate and assumptions in determining fair value, but these estimates involve inherent uncertainties and the application of management’s judgment. As a result, if other assumptions had been used, our recorded earnings or disclosures could have been materially different from those reflected in these financial statements. For detailed information on our use of fair value measurements and our related valuation methodologies, see Note 1 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Note 19 – Fair Value Measurements for more information.

64

Table of Contents

ENTERPRISE RISK MANAGEMENT

Other sections of this report on Form 10-K include discussion of market risk and risk factors. Risk management is overseen by the Company’s Chief Risk Officer, who reports directly to the CEO. This position oversees risk management, credit, loan review, compliance, data governance, and information security. Enterprise risk assessments are brought to the Company’s Enterprise Risk Management Committee, and then are reported to the Board’s Risk Management, Capital & Compliance Committee.

The Company includes recessionary/inflationary risk overlays on all of the material business risks to capture the uncertainties of the economic environment. The Company has also developed recession toolkits and playbooks that outline mitigating factors and actions that strive to minimize losses under such scenarios. Both of these items are addressed throughout the assessments and dashboards provided to the above Committees.

The high level corporate risk assessment focuses on the following material business risks: credit risk, interest rate risk, price risk, liquidity risk, operational risk, compliance risk, strategic risk, and reputation risk, with the credit risk category having the highest weighting. For all material business risks, residual risk was viewed as medium/low to medium due to mitigating controls functioning in the Company. In 2024, price risk remained elevated in relation to the corporate appetite due to the impact of higher interest rates on the behavior and value of various interest sensitive instruments. Residual price risk was viewed as medium including the impact of mitigating factors and management actions in the risk management environment. Emerging risks affecting business risks included merger execution risk, fraud risk due to rising thefts targeting electronic platforms, and IT and cyber risks due to rising external threats and the emergence of artificial intelligence technology.

CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITY & SUSTAINABILITY

The Company’s longstanding commitment to operating responsibly and sustainably is interwoven into the company’s vision, mission, business practices, and strategic goals. Berkshire’s integrated approach to strong governance and managing environmental and social externalities helps reduce risk and unlock new business opportunities to create an ecosystem of positive impact and value, which in turn supports Berkshire’s commercial performance, creating capacity to invest more in its business, employees, customers, shareholders and communities.

The Company maintains a comprehensive governance system to oversee sustainability matters including a dedicated committee of its Board of Directors and a dedicated management committee, along with a network of policies including its Responsible & Sustainable Business Policy and Climate Risk Management Program. Berkshire was one of the first banks in the country to establish a dedicated committee of its Board of Directors to oversee these matters and became the first public U.S. community bank holding company with under $150 billion in assets to issue and successfully allocate a Sustainability Bond with a $100 million issuance.

Berkshire remains a leader among community banks in sustainability performance and regularly engages directly with its stakeholders to share information about its progress. The Company’s annual Sustainability Report, which is aligned with disclosure standards from Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (“SASB”) and Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosure ("TCFD"), detail the Company's programs and performance.

Climate Impact

Climate change manifesting in the form of both physical or transition risks along with the Company’s mitigating practices could adversely, either directly or indirectly, affect Berkshire’s operations, businesses, customers, communities, and its stakeholders. As the transition to a low-carbon economy continues, new policy emerges, and market dynamics shift, Berkshire expects that its efforts to manage its environmental footprint, mitigate the risks associated with climate change, and support the transition will allow it to strengthen its long-term positioning. The Company’s Board of Directors Corporate Responsibility & Culture Committee provides oversight of sustainability and climate matters. Management and the board evaluate climate related risks and opportunities and incorporate the results of risk assessments and discussions into strategic planning, product development, programming and relevant risk mitigating measures. The Company expects to evolve its practices to align with risks, current and expected regulations as well as the size, scope, and complexity of its operations. Further details on Berkshire’s practices can be found in its most recent Sustainability Report.

65

Table of Contents

Opportunity for All

Maintaining an inclusive workplace is essential to business success and an important enabler to advancing the Company’s strategic goals. By embracing and leveraging diverse backgrounds, cultures, skills, ideas and experiences, Berkshire is driving innovation, better decision-making and enhancing the bank’s ability to serve the evolving needs of its customers and communities. Berkshire remains committed to creating a culture of inclusivity in its workplace where every employee feels respected, valued and empowered to contribute their unique talents to the Company’s success.

Berkshire seeks to attract, engage and retain individuals, businesses and suppliers from a wide range of backgrounds, and experiences so that the workforce, clients and supplier base reflect the communities in which it operates. The Company approaches its efforts with strong governance practices, provides professional development for its employees, engages with its communities and offers employee resource groups, all aimed at ensuring accessibility and opportunity for all.

Awards & Recognition

Berkshire is proud to be recognized for its performance with local, regional, national, and international awards including:

•American Bankers Association Community Commitment Award

•America’s Most Trustworthy Companies – Newsweek

•America’s Best Regional Banks – Newsweek

•America’s Greatest Workplaces – Newsweek

•America’s Best Mid-Size Companies – TIME

•Communitas Award for Leadership in Corporate Social Responsibility

•Boston Business Journal Top Charitable Contributor

•Human Rights Campaign Equality 100

66

Table of Contents

FY 2023 10-K MD&A

SEC filing source: 0001108134-24-000003.

Extracted structurally from real Item 7 body heading to real Item 7A/8 boundary. Confidence: high. Filing date: 2024-02-28. Report date: 2023-12-31.

ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

The following summary data is based in part on the Consolidated Financial Statements and accompanying notes, and other schedules appearing elsewhere in this Form 10-K. Historical data is also based in part on, and should be read in conjunction with, prior filings with the SEC.

At or For the Years Ended December 31,
(In thousands, except per share data)20232022202120202019
Per Common Share Data:
Net earnings/(loss), diluted - continuing operations$1.60$2.02$2.39$(10.21)$2.05
Net (loss), diluted - discontinued operations(0.39)(0.08)
Net earnings/(loss), diluted$1.60$2.02$2.39$(10.60)$1.97
Total book value per common share23.2721.5124.3023.3734.65
Dividends0.720.540.480.720.92
Common stock price:
High31.5231.7829.1633.0433.72
Low18.0723.6216.358.5526.02
Close24.8329.9028.4317.1232.88
Performance Ratios: (1)
Return on assets0.59%0.82%0.98%(4.15)%0.75%
Return on equity, including unrealized losses on AFS securities7.078.709.9637.155.73
Return on equity, excluding unrealized losses on AFS securities5.687.7610.18(37.50)5.75
Return on tangible common equity, including unrealized losses on AFS securities (2)7.609.2910.57(46.88)9.31
Return on tangible common equity, excluding unrealized losses on AFS securities (2)6.078.2610.80(48.60)9.36
Net interest margin, fully taxable equivalent ("FTE") (3)3.273.262.602.723.17
Growth Ratios:
Total commercial loans5.66%12.99%(12.09)%(4.58)%9.19%
Total loans8.4522.11(15.54)14.955.08
Total deposits2.962.57(1.44)(1.16)15.07
Earnings per share, (compared to prior year)(20.79)(15.48)122.55(638.07)(13.97)
Selected Financial Data:
Total assets$12,430,821$11,662,864$11,554,913$12,838,013$13,215,970
Total earning assets11,704,51510,913,06910,899,10912,089,93911,916,007
Securities1,607,4962,033,4362,548,5902,223,4171,769,878
Total loans9,039,6868,335,3096,825,8478,081,5199,502,428
Allowance for credit losses(105,357)(96,270)(106,094)(127,302)(63,575)
Total intangible assets19,66424,48326,61934,819599,377
Total deposits10,633,38410,327,26910,068,95310,215,80810,335,977
Total borrowings506,586125,509110,844571,637827,550
Total shareholders’ equity1,012,221954,0621,182,4351,187,7731,758,564

45

Table of Contents

At or For the Years Ended December 31,
20232022202120202019
Selected Operating Data:
Total interest and dividend income$576,299$387,257$329,065$409,782$509,513
Total interest expense207,25242,66037,89993,000144,255
Net interest income369,047344,597291,166316,782356,258
Fee income65,28163,99584,46269,99076,824
All other non-interest income/(loss)(22,499)4,94258,786(3,683)7,178
Total net revenue411,829413,534434,414383,089449,260
Provision for credit losses31,99911,000(500)75,87835,419
Total non-interest expense301,508288,716285,893840,239289,857
Income/(loss) from continuing operations before income taxes78,322113,818149,021(533,028)123,984
Income tax expense/(benefit) from continuing operations8,72421,28530,357(19,853)22,463
Net income/(loss) from continuing operations69,59892,533118,664(513,175)101,521
(Loss)/income from discontinued operations before income taxes(26,855)(5,539)
Income tax (benefit)/expense from discontinued operations(7,013)(1,468)
Net (loss)/income from discontinued operations(19,842)(4,071)
Net income/(loss)$69,598$92,533$118,664$(533,017)$97,450
Basic earnings/(loss) per common share:
Continuing operations$1.61$2.03$2.41$(10.21)$2.06
Discontinued operations(0.39)(0.08)
Total basic earnings/(loss) per share$1.61$2.03$2.41$(10.60)$1.98
Diluted earnings/(loss) per common share:
Continuing operations$1.60$2.02$2.39$(10.21)$2.05
Discontinued operations(0.39)(0.08)
Total diluted earnings/(loss) per share$1.60$2.02$2.39$(10.60)$1.97
Weighted average common shares outstanding - basic43,28845,56449,24050,27049,263
Weighted average common shares outstanding - diluted43,50445,91449,55450,27049,421
Dividends per preferred share$$$$1.20$1.84
Dividends per common share$0.72$0.54$0.48$0.72$0.92
Asset Quality and Condition Ratios: (4)
Net loans charged-off/average loans0.26%0.27%0.29%0.41%0.35%
Allowance for credit losses/total loans1.171.151.551.580.67
Loans/deposits8581687992
Capital Ratios:
Tier 1 capital to average assets - Company9.65%10.18%10.49%9.38%9.33%
Total capital to risk-weighted assets - Company14.3614.6017.3216.1013.73
Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets - Company12.2712.6015.3014.0612.30
Shareholders’ equity/total assets8.148.1810.239.2513.31

46

Table of Contents

___________________________________

(1)  All performance ratios are annualized and are based on average balance sheet amounts, where applicable.

(2) Non-GAAP financial measure. Refer to "Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures" for additional information.

(3)    Fully taxable equivalent considers the impact of tax advantaged investment securities and loans.

(4)  For periods prior to 2020, generally accepted accounting principles require that loans acquired in a business combination be recorded at fair value, whereas loans from business activities are recorded at cost. The fair value of loans acquired in a business combination includes expected credit losses, and there is no loan loss allowance recorded for these loans at the time of acquisition. Accordingly, the ratio of the loan loss allowance to total loans is reduced as a result of the existence of such loans, and this measure is not directly comparable to prior periods. Similarly, net loan charge-offs are normally reduced for loans acquired in a business combination since these loans are recorded net of expected credit losses. Therefore, the ratio of net loan charge-offs to average loans is reduced as a result of the existence of such loans, and this measure is not directly comparable to prior periods. Other institutions may have loans acquired in a business combination, and therefore there may be no direct comparability of these ratios between and among other institutions.

47

Table of Contents

Average Balances, Interest and Average Yields/Cost

The following table presents an analysis of average rates and yields on a fully taxable equivalent basis for the years presented. Tax exempt interest revenue is shown on a tax-equivalent basis for proper comparison.

Item 7 - Table 1 - Average Balance, Interest and Average Yields / Costs

202320222021
(Dollars in millions)Average BalanceInterestAverage Yield/ RateAverage BalanceInterestAverage Yield/ RateAverage BalanceInterestAverage Yield/ Rate
Assets
Loans: (1)(2)
Commercial real estate$4,326.8$272.56.30%$3,836.2$167.64.37%$3,600.2$124.43.46%
Commercial and industrial loans1,455.9107.97.411,435.374.75.201,527.671.84.70
Residential loans2,512.398.13.911,784.263.33.551,560.458.43.75
Consumer loans518.537.87.29556.832.15.77569.122.03.87
Total loans8,813.5516.35.867,612.5337.74.447,257.3276.63.81
Investment securities (2)(3)2,186.650.82.322,489.751.22.062,283.649.42.16
Short-term investments and loans held for sale (4)372.417.14.59569.14.90.861,619.42.30.58
Mid-Atlantic region loans held for sale179.57.13.97
Total interest-earning assets11,372.5584.25.1410,671.3393.83.6911,339.8335.42.60
Intangible assets21.926.832.0
Other non-interest earning assets (4)443.2518.2708.8
Total assets$11,837.6$11,216.3$12,080.6
Liabilities and shareholders' equity
Deposits:
Non-interest-bearing demand deposits$2,584.6$%$2,914.9$%$2,817.4$%
NOW and other1,048.914.91.42%1,416.76.10.43%1,340.21.00.07%
Money market2,727.365.62.402,809.113.80.492,749.75.30.19
Savings1,067.26.10.571,114.80.40.031,067.70.50.05
Certificates of deposit2,275.872.43.181,541.713.10.851,978.918.60.94
Total deposits9,703.8159.01.649,797.233.40.349,953.925.40.26
Borrowings and notes (4)913.648.35.29176.19.25.24320.210.73.34
Mid-Atlantic region interest-bearing deposits335.11.80.54
Total funding liabilities10,617.4207.31.959,973.342.60.4310,609.237.90.35
Other non-interest-bearing liabilities236.3180.1280.9
Total liabilities10,853.710,153.410,890.1
Total shareholders' equity983.91,062.91,190.5
Total liabilities and equity$11,837.6$11,216.3$12,080.6
Net interest margin (5)3.273.262.60
Supplementary data
Net Interest Income, non FTE$369.0$344.6$291.2
FTE income adjustment (6)7.96.66.3
Net Interest Income, FTE376.9351.2297.5

48

Table of Contents

_________________________________

Notes:

(1) The average balances of loans include nonaccrual loans, and deferred fees and costs.

(2) The yield on tax-exempt loans and securities is computed on a fully tax-equivalent basis using a tax rate of 27%.

(3) The average balance of investment securities is based on amortized cost.

(4) The average balances of borrowings and notes include the finance lease obligation presented under other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet.

(5) Purchase accounting accretion totaled $0.7 million, $2.0 million, and $6.7 million for the years-ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021, respectively. The effect of purchase accounting accretion on the net interest margin was an increase in all years, which is shown sequentially as follows beginning with the most recent year and ending with the earliest year: 0.01%, 0.02%, and 0.09%.

49

Table of Contents

Rate/Volume Analysis

The following table presents the effects of rate and volume changes on the fully taxable equivalent net interest income. Tax exempt interest revenue is shown on a tax-equivalent basis for proper comparison. For each category of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities, information is provided with respect to changes attributable to (1) changes in rate (change in rate multiplied by prior year volume), (2) changes in volume (change in volume multiplied by prior year rate), and (3) changes in volume/rate (change in rate multiplied by change in volume) have been allocated proportionately based on the absolute value of the change due to the rate and the change due to volume. There are no out-of-period adjustments included in the rate/volume analysis in the following table.

Item 7 - Table 2 - Rate Volume Analysis

2023 Compared with 20222022 Compared with 2021
(Decrease) Increase Due to(Decrease) Increase Due to
(In thousands)RateVolumeNetRateVolumeNet
Interest income:
Commercial real estate$81,238$23,568$104,806$34,681$8,582$43,263
Commercial and industrial loans32,1051,08633,1917,397(4,501)2,896
Residential loans6,88327,93134,814(3,179)8,0614,882
Consumer loans8,004(2,329)5,67510,572(482)10,090
Total loans128,23050,256178,48649,47111,66061,131
Investment securities6,239(6,628)(389)(2,468)4,3161,848
Short-term investments and loans held for sale (1)14,416(2,244)12,1724,968(2,335)2,633
Mid-Atlantic region loans held for sale(7,120)(7,120)
Total interest income$148,885$41,384$190,269$51,971$6,521$58,492
Interest expense:
NOW accounts$6,380$2,324$8,704$5,053$62$5,115
Money market accounts59,450(7,713)51,7378,4021168,518
Savings accounts5,2994535,752(204)23(181)
Certificates of deposit60,555(1,271)59,284(1,593)(3,839)(5,432)
Total deposits131,684(6,207)125,47711,658(3,638)8,020
Borrowings839,11139,1194,568(6,010)(1,442)
Mid-Atlantic region interest-bearing deposits(1,820)(1,820)
Total interest expense$131,692$32,904$164,596$16,226$(11,468)$4,758
Change in net interest income$17,193$8,480$25,673$35,745$17,989$53,734

50

Table of Contents

NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES

This document contains certain non-GAAP financial measures in addition to results presented in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“GAAP”). These non-GAAP measures are intended to provide the reader with additional supplemental perspectives on operating results, performance trends, and financial condition. Non-GAAP financial measures are not a substitute for GAAP measures; they should be read and used in conjunction with the Company’s GAAP financial information. A reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures to GAAP measures is provided below. In all cases, it should be understood that non-GAAP measures do not depict amounts that accrue directly to the benefit of shareholders. An item which management excludes when computing non-GAAP operating earnings can be of substantial importance to the Company’s results for any particular quarter or year. The Company’s non-GAAP operating earnings information set forth is not necessarily comparable to non-GAAP information which may be presented by other companies. Each non-GAAP measure used by the Company in this report as supplemental financial data should be considered in conjunction with the Company’s GAAP financial information.

The Company utilizes the non-GAAP measure of operating earnings in evaluating operating trends, including components for operating revenue and expense. These measures exclude amounts which the Company views as unrelated to its normalized operations. These items primarily include securities gains/losses, merger costs, and restructuring costs.

In 2023, adjustments were primarily related to branch consolidations, severance charges related to a workforce reduction, and loss on sale of AFS securities. Starting in 2023, fair value adjustments on securities are included in operating income.

In 2022, the restructuring expense adjustment primarily related to the termination of leasehold interests and the write-down of related right of use assets and leasehold improvements in conjunction with branch consolidations and real estate reductions.

In 2021, the Company recorded a net gain of $52 million on the sale of the operations of the insurance subsidiary and the Mid-Atlantic branch operations. Expense adjustments in 2021 were primarily related to branch consolidations, borrowings prepayment costs, and restructuring charges for efficiency initiatives in operation areas including write-downs on real estate and severance related to staff reductions.

The Company calculates certain profitability measures based on its operating revenue, expenses, and earnings. The Company also calculates operating earnings per share based on its measure of adjusted earnings. The Company views these amounts as important to understanding its operating trends, particularly due to the impact of accounting standards related to merger and acquisition activity. Analysts also rely on these measures in estimating and evaluating the Company’s performance. Management also believes that the computation of non-GAAP operating earnings and operating earnings per share may facilitate the comparison of the Company to other companies in the financial services industry.

Due to the anticipated earnings volatility resulting from loan loss provisions reflecting changes in estimates of uncertain future economic conditions under the CECL accounting standard, many users of bank financial statements are focusing on Pre-Provision Net Revenue (“PPNR”). This is a measure of revenue less expenses, and is calculated before the loan loss provision and income tax expense. This measure gives clearer visibility of the operations of the company during the periods presented in the income statements, without the impact of period-end estimates of future uncertain events. This measure also enhances comparisons of operations across different banks, which might have significantly different period-end estimates of uncertain future economic conditions that affect the loan loss provision. Consistent with its previous practices measuring results on an adjusted basis before the impacts of acquisitions, divestitures, and other designated items, the Company has introduced the measure of Operating Pre-Provision Net Revenue (“Operating PPNR”) which measures PPNR excluding adjustments for items not viewed as related to ongoing operations. This measure is now integral to the Company’s analysis of its operations, and is not viewed as a substitute for GAAP measures of net income. Analysts also use this measure in assessing the Company’s operations and in making comparisons across banks. The Company and analysts also measure Operating PPNR/Assets in order to utilize the PPNR measure in assessing its comparative operating profitability. This measure primarily relies on the measures of operating revenue and operating expense already used in the Company’s calculation of its efficiency ratio.

51

Table of Contents

The Company also adjusts certain equity related measures to exclude intangible assets due to the importance of these measures to the investment community.

The following table summarizes the reconciliation of non-GAAP items recorded for the time periods indicated:

At or For the Years Ended
(Dollars in thousands)December 31, 2023December 31, 2022December 31, 2021
GAAP Net income$69,598$92,533$118,664
Non-GAAP measures
Adj: Fair value adjustments on securities (1)2,037787
Adj: Loss/(gain) on sale of AFS securities25,057(6)
Adj: Net gains on sale of business operations(52,942)
Adj: Acquisition, restructuring, conversion, and other related expenses (2)6,2618,9095,781
Adj: Income taxes(7,723)(2,940)11,696
Net non-operating charges23,5958,000(34,678)
Operating net income (non-GAAP)$93,193$100,533$83,986
GAAP Total revenue from continuing operations$411,829$413,534$434,414
Adj: Fair value adjustments on securities2,037787
Adj: Loss/(gain) on sale of AFS securities25,057(6)
Adj: Net gains on sale of business operations(52,942)
Operating revenue (non-GAAP)$436,886$413,528$382,259
GAAP Total non-interest expense from continuing operations$301,508$288,716$285,893
Less: Total non-operating expense (see above)(6,261)(8,909)(5,781)
Operating non-interest expense (non-GAAP)$295,247$279,807$280,112
Pre-tax, pre-provision net revenue (PPNR)$110,321$124,818$148,521
Operating pre-tax, pre-provision net revenue (PPNR)141,639135,758102,147
(in millions, except per share data)
Total average assets$11,838$11,216$12,081
Total average shareholders' equity, including unrealized losses on AFS securities9841,0631,191
Total average shareholders' equity, excluding unrealized losses on AFS securities1,2261,1931,166
Total average tangible shareholders' equity, including unrealized losses on AFS securities9621,0361,159
Total average tangible shareholders' equity, excluding unrealized losses on AFS securities1,2041,1661,134
Total tangible shareholders’ equity, period-end9939301,153
Total tangible assets, period-end12,41111,63811,525
Total common shares outstanding, period-end (thousands)43,50144,36148,667
Average diluted shares outstanding (thousands)43,50445,91449,554
Earnings per share, diluted$1.60$2.02$2.39
Plus: Net adjustments per share, diluted0.540.17(0.70)
Operating earnings per share, diluted2.142.191.69
Book value per common share, period-end23.2721.5124.30
Tangible book value per common share, period-end22.8220.9523.69
Total shareholders' equity/total assets8.148.1810.23
Total tangible shareholders' equity/total tangible assets8.007.9910.00

52

Table of Contents

At or For the Years Ended
(Dollars in thousands)December 31, 2023December 31, 2022December 31, 2021
Performance Ratios
Return on equity, including unrealized losses on AFS securities7.07%8.70%9.96%
Return on equity, excluding unrealized losses on AFS securities5.687.7610.18
Operating return on equity, including unrealized losses on AFS securities9.479.467.05
Operating return on equity, excluding unrealized losses on AFS securities7.608.437.20
Return on tangible common equity, including unrealized losses on AFS securities (3)7.609.2910.57
Return on tangible common equity, excluding unrealized losses on AFS securities (3)6.078.2610.80
Operating return on tangible common equity, including unrealized losses on AFS securities (3)10.0510.077.58
Operating return on tangible common equity, excluding unrealized losses on AFS securities (3)8.038.947.74
Return on assets0.590.820.98
Operating return on assets0.790.900.70
Efficiency ratio (4)63.8864.3169.96
Supplementary Data (in thousands)
Tax benefit on tax-credit investments$9,863$4,880$4,372
Non-interest income charge on tax-credit investments(8,018)(3,508)(3,445)
Net income on tax-credit investments1,8451,372928
Intangible amortization4,8205,1345,200
Fully taxable equivalent income adjustment7,8706,6446,344

____________________________________

(1)Starting in 2023, fair value adjustments on securities are included in operating income.

(2)Acquisition, restructuring, conversion, and other related expenses included no merger and acquisition expenses for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021.

(3)Amortization of intangible assets is adjusted assuming a 27% marginal tax rate.

(4)Efficiency ratio is computed by dividing total core tangible non-interest expense by the sum of total net interest income on a fully taxable equivalent basis and total core non-interest income adjusted to include tax credit benefit of tax shelter investments. The Company uses this non-GAAP measure to provide important information regarding its operational efficiency.

GENERAL

This discussion is intended to assist readers in understanding the financial condition and results of operations of Berkshire Hills Bancorp, Inc. (“Berkshire” or the “Company"), the changes in key items in the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements (“financial statements”) from year to year, and the primary reasons for those changes.

The objectives of this section are:

•To provide a narrative explanation of the Company’s financial statements that enables investors to see the company through the eyes of management;

•To enhance the financial disclosure and provide the context within which financial information should be analyzed; and

•To provide information about the quality of, and potential future variability of, the Company’s earnings and cash flow.

This discussion includes the following sections:

•Comparison of Operating Results for the Years Ended December 31, 2023 and 2022

•Comparison of Financial Condition at December 31, 2023 and 2022

•Liquidity and Cash Flows

•Capital Resources

•Application of Critical Accounting Policies

•Enterprise Risk Management

53

Table of Contents

•LIBOR Transition

•Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability

The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the Company’s financial statements and the notes thereto appearing in Item 8 of this document. In the following discussion, income statement comparisons are against the previous year and balance sheet comparisons are against the previous fiscal year-end, unless otherwise noted. Operating results discussed herein are not necessarily indicative of the results for the year 2024 or any future period. In management’s discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations, certain reclassifications have been made to make prior periods comparable. Tax-equivalent adjustments are the result of increasing income from tax-advantaged loans and securities by an amount equal to the taxes that would be paid if the income were fully taxable based on a 27% marginal rate (including state income taxes net of federal benefit). In the discussion, unless otherwise specified, references to earnings per share and "EPS" refer to diluted earnings per common share.

Berkshire is a Delaware corporation headquartered in Boston and the holding company for Berkshire Bank (“the Bank”) Established in 1846, the Bank operates as a commercial bank under a Massachusetts trust company charter.

54

Table of Contents

COMPARISON OF OPERATING RESULTS FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2023 AND 2022

Summary

Berkshire reported 2023 net income of $69.6 million, or $1.60 per diluted share, compared to $92.5 million, or $2.02, per share in 2022. Net income in 2023 included net pre-tax non-operating charges totaling $31.3 million ($23.6 million after-tax), or $0.54 per share. Net income in 2022 included net pre-tax non-operating charges totaling $10.9 million ($8.0 million after-tax), or $0.17 per share. Non-operating charges included restructuring charges in both years and a $25.1 million loss on the sale of securities in the fourth quarter of 2023. Due to this loss, the Company reported a net loss of $1 million in the fourth quarter of 2023.

The Company’s 2023 non-GAAP measure of operating income totaled $93.2 million, or $2.14 per diluted share, compared to $100.5 million, or $2.19 per share, for 2022. Year-over-year, higher net interest income was more than offset by higher loan loss provision expense and operating non-interest expense. Per share results benefited from share repurchases.

Berkshire’s 2023 return on average assets was 0.59% (0.79% on an operating basis) compared to 0.82% (0.90% on an operating basis) for 2022. Return on average tangible common equity including unrealized loss on AFS securities was 7.60% (10.05% on an operating basis) in 2023 compared to 9.29% (10.07% on an operating basis) in 2022. Return on average tangible common equity excluding unrealized loss on AFS securities was 6.07% (8.03% on an operating basis) in 2023 compared to 8.26% (8.94% on an operating basis) in 2022.

Compared to 2022, fully taxable equivalent ("FTE") net interest income increased $25.7 million to $376.9 million. The net interest margin was little changed, increasing one basis point to 3.27%. Average total earning assets increased year-over-year by $701 million, reflecting a $1.20 billion increase in average loans, partially offset by a $303 million decrease in average securities and a $197 million decrease in average short-term investments and HFS loans. Average total funding liabilities increased year-over-year by $644 million compared to the year-ago average, reflecting a $738 million increase in average borrowings, partially offset by a $93 million decrease in average deposits.

Year-over-year, non-interest income excluding losses/gains decreased $3.6 million and total non-interest expense increased $12.8 million. The efficiency ratio was 63.88% in 2023 compared to 64.31% in 2022.

The provision for credit losses on loans was $32.0 million in 2023, compared to $11.0 million in 2022. The allowance for credit losses on loans was $105.4 million, or 1.17% of total loans, at December 31, 2023, compared to $96.3 million, or 1.15% of total loans at December 31, 2022.

Berkshire’s total shareholders’ equity was $1.01 billion at December 31, 2023 compared to $954 million at December 31, 2022. The year-end common equity Tier 1 capital ratio was 12.0% in 2023 and 12.4% in 2022. Tangible common equity as a percentage of tangible assets was 8.0% at both of those dates.

Net Interest Income

Net interest income and net interest margin may be affected by many factors, including: changes in average balances; interest rate fluctuations and the slope of the yield curve; sales of loans and securities; residential mortgage loan and mortgage-backed security prepayment rates; product pricing; competitive forces; the relative mix, repricing characteristics and maturity of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities; non-interest-bearing sources of funds; hedging activities; and asset quality.

In response to persistent high inflation, the Federal Reserve Board increased the target federal funds rate during 2022 and 2023. The average maximum target Federal Funds rate increased from 0.25% in the first quarter of 2022 to 5.50% in the fourth quarter of 2023, increasing in each sequential quarter, with the largest quarterly increases occurring in the second and third quarters of 2022.

The net interest margin increased by one basis point to 3.27% in 2023. Net interest income increased year-over-year by $24 million, or 7%, due to a 7% increase in average earning assets funded by higher average borrowings. Total interest income increased $189 million and total interest expense increased $165 million. The FTE interest adjustment increased $1 million.

55

Table of Contents

Full year total average earning assets increased $701 million in 2023 compared to 2022, primarily reflecting an increase of $1.20 billion in average loans offset by decreases of $303 million in average securities and $197 million in short-term investments and loans HFS. The increase in average loans was primarily due to a $491 million increase in average commercial real estate loans and a $728 million increase in average residential mortgages, reflecting growth in originations staff and expansionary economic conditions supporting market demand for commercial loans.

Average total loans, average securities and average short-term investments and loans held for sale comprised 78%, 19% and 3%, respectively, of average total earning assets in 2023, compared to 72%, 23% and 5%, respectively, in 2022. In 2023, the yields on these portfolios were 5.86%, 2.32%, and 4.59% respectively, compared to 4.44%, 2.06%, and 0.86% in 2022.

The 145 basis point year-over-year increase in the full year yield on average earning assets reflected higher market interest rates. The loan yield increased by 142 basis points, the securities yield increased by 26 basis points, and the yield on short-term investments and loans held for sale increased 373 basis points. Higher loans yields included increases of 193 basis points in commercial real estate, 221 basis points in commercial and industrial loans, 36 basis points in residential mortgages, and 152 basis points in consumer loans.

Average total funding liabilities increased $644 million, reflecting a $738 million increase in average borrowings which was partially offset by a $93 million reduction in average deposits. The increase in borrowings was primarily due to higher borrowings from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston.

Compared to the prior year, average non-interest bearing deposits decreased $330 million, average NOW and other interest-bearing transaction accounts decreased $368 million, average money market deposits decreased $82 million, and average savings deposits decreased $48 million. Average time deposits increased $734 million. Deposit shifts reflected the migration of some balances from lower yielding accounts to higher yielding accounts in and out of the Bank, as well as the spend-down by customers of liquidity accumulated during the pandemic. Time deposit growth included higher utilization of brokered deposits.

Average total deposits comprised 91% and 98% of average total funding liabilities in 2023 and 2022, respectively. As a percentage of 2023 average deposits, average non-interest bearing deposits measured 27%, average NOW and other interest-bearing transaction accounts measured 11%, average money market deposits were 28%, average savings accounts were 11%, and average time deposits were 23%. The comparable percentages in the year-ago quarter were 30%, 14%, 29%, 11%, and 16% respectively.

The 152 basis point increase to 1.95% in the rate paid on average total funding liabilities in 2023 compared to 2022 primarily reflects the impact of the increase in market interest rates and increased borrowings. The rate paid on average total deposits increased 130 basis points, reflecting higher interest rates paid and the shift in the mix of deposits. Higher deposit costs included increases of 99 basis points in the cost of NOW and other interest-bearing transaction deposits, 191 basis points in the cost of money market deposits, 54 basis points in the cost of savings deposits, and 233 basis points in the cost of time deposits.

Non-Interest Income

Total non-interest income decreased $26.2 million in 2023 compared to 2022 due primarily to a $25.1 million loss recorded on the sale of AFS securities near-year end, with proceeds used to pay down higher cost borrowings. The Company views this loss as non-operating. SBA loan sale revenue decreased by $2.2 million, reflecting margin and volume changes in the rising interest rate environment. The category of other non-interest income decreased $4.9 million due to a $4.5 million increase in charges for the amortization of tax credit investments, reflecting higher balances of these investments in 2023 as projects progressed following prior pandemic related delays. These charges are more than offset by credits to income tax expense. Total deposit and loan related fees increased $3.3 million, or 8%, due to improved volume and pricing conditions.

56

Table of Contents

Provision for Credit Losses

The provision totaled $32.0 million in 2023 compared to $11.0 million in 2022. Provision expense in 2023 primarily reflected growth in the loan portfolio and increased uncertainty related to commercial real estate market conditions. The ratio of the allowance for credit losses to loans increased to 1.17% from 1.15%. The provision in 2022 reflected lower pandemic-related expected credit losses near the end of the pandemic public health emergency.

Non-Interest Expense

Total non-interest expense increased year-over-year by $12.8 million, or 4%. Restructuring and other non-operating expense decreased to $6.3 million from $8.9 million. Restructuring expense in 2023 was primarily due to the consolidation of four branches and severance related to a cross-company workforce reduction in the fourth quarter. Restructuring expense in 2022 was primarily due to the consolidation of six branch offices. The Company’s non-GAAP measure of operating non-interest expense increased year-over-year by $15.4 million, or 6%. This was primarily due to a $6.5 million, or 4%, increase in compensation expense and a $6.3 million, or 18%, increase in technology related expense. Expense growth reflected the impact of inflation, together with the Company’s strategy of investing in frontline bankers and digital innovation targeted to support future growth of revenues and deposits. Occupancy expense decreased by $1.9 million, or 5%, due to consolidation of branches and office premises. FDIC insurance expense increased $3.9 million due to higher premiums charged to the industry. The efficiency ratio improved slightly year-over-year to 63.9% from 64.3% as higher net interest income offset lower operating fee income and higher operating expenses. Quarterly operating revenue peaked in the fourth quarter of 2022 and has declined in consecutive quarters as the net interest margin has declined over these periods, with funding cost increases catching up with the higher initial sensitivity of variable rate interest earning assets to the rapid increase in market interest rates in 2022. The fourth quarter efficiency ratio measured 67.8% in 2023, compared to 58.3% in 2022.

Income Tax Expense

The Company’s effective income tax rate was 11.1% in 2023 compared to 18.7% in 2022. This reduction was primarily due to the higher proportional benefit of tax advantaged income compared to pre-tax income, which declined by $35.5 million, or 31%, due to the loss on sale of AFS securities and the increase in credit loss provision expense. Differences arising between Berkshire’s effective income tax rate and the U.S. federal statutory rate of 21% are generally attributable to: (i) tax-exempt interest earned on certain investments; (ii) tax-exempt income from BOLI; (iii) tax credit investment benefits; and (iv) state income taxes. The Company’s tax credit investment program contributed $0.04 to earnings per share in 2023, compared to $0.03 in 2022.

COMPARISON OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AT DECEMBER 31, 2023 AND DECEMBER 31, 2022

General

Total assets at December 31, 2023 were $12.4 billion, a $768 million increase from December 31, 2022, primarily reflecting a $704 million increase in total loans and a $515 million increase in short-term investments, partially offset by a decrease of $426 million in investment securities. Loan growth primarily consisted of a $398 million increase in commercial real estate loans and a $448 million increase in residential mortgages. The increase in short-term investments was primarily due to higher short-term deposits at year-end 2023. The decrease in investment securities was primarily due to the sale of $267 million of available for sale securities near year-end 2023, and also included amortizations and maturities of securities during the year.

Nonaccrual loans totaled $21.4 million at December 31, 2023, a $9.7 million decrease from December 31, 2022 across most major loan categories. The allowance for credit losses on loans totaled $105.4 million at December 31, 2023, compared to $96.3 million at December 31, 2022. At December 31 2023, the allowance as a percentage of total loans was 1.17% and as a percentage of nonaccrual loans was 492%, compared to 1.15% and 309%, respectively, at December 31, 2022.

At December 31, 2023, total liabilities were $11.4 billion, a $710 million increase from December 31, 2022, primarily reflecting a $306 million increase in deposits and a $381 million increase in total borrowings.

57

Table of Contents

Berkshire’s total shareholders’ equity was $1.01 billion at December 31, 2023, a $58 million increase from December 31, 2022. As a percentage of total assets, shareholders’ equity was 8.1% and 8.2% at December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively. Tangible common equity equaled 8.0% both at December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022.

Berkshire’s (consolidated) Tier 1 Leverage capital ratio and its Common Equity Tier 1 (“CET 1”), Tier 1 and Total risk-based capital ratios were 9.6%, 12.0%, 12.3% and 14.4%, respectively, at December 31, 2023, compared to 10.2%, 12.4%, 12.6% and 14.6%, respectively, at December 31, 2022. The Bank’s Tier 1 Leverage capital ratio and its CET 1, Tier 1 and Total risk-based capital ratios were 9.6%, 12.2%, 12.2% and 13.3%, respectively, at December 31, 2023, compared to 10.2%, 12.6%, 12.6% and 13.6%, respectively, at December 31, 2022.

Securities

Total securities measured $1.6 billion at December 31, 2023, decreasing $426 million during 2023. This decrease was primarily due to the sale of available for sale securities valued at $267 million near year-end, with proceeds used to paydown higher costing short-term borrowings. The decrease in securities from this sale and from amortization and payoffs in 2023 was mostly in agency mortgage-related instruments including collateralized mortgage obligations, mortgage-backed securities, and commercial mortgage-backed securities.

Loans

Total loans at period-end are categorized in the financial statement in accordance with regulatory reporting.

Total loans measured $9.0 billion at December 31, 2023, increasing $704 million during 2023. At December 31, 2023, commercial loans measured 65% of total loans and retail loans measured 35% of total loans. In comparison, at December 31, 2022, commercial loans measured 66% of total loans and retail loans measured 34% of total loans.

Total commercial loans increased by $312 million to $5.8 billion during 2023 and were comprised of commercial real estate loans and commercial and industrial loans. Commercial real estate loans (which include construction loans and multifamily loans) totaled $4.5 billion and increased by $398 million during 2023. Construction loans increased by $321 million. Commercial and industrial loans totaled $1.4 billion and decreased by $86 million. Nonaccrual commercial loans totaled $13.1 million at December 31, 2023, and measured 0.22% of total commercial loans. At December 31, 2022, nonaccrual commercial loans totaled $19.4 million, measuring 0.35% of total commercial loans. Potential problem loans, which are adversely classified loans which remain in an accrual status, totaled $132 million, or 2.26% of total commercial loans at December 31, 2023, compared to $89 million, or 1.61% of total commercial loans at December 31, 2022.

Total retail loans increased by $392 million to $3.2 billion during 2023. Retail loans include residential mortgage loans and consumer loans. At December 31, 2023, residential mortgages totaled $2.8 billion and increased by $448 million during 2023. Consumer loans totaled $446 million and decreased by $56 million for this period, due primarily to planned run-off of unsecured consumer balances. Nonaccrual retail loans totaled $8.3 million at December 31, 2023, measuring 0.26% of total retail loans. At December 31, 2022, nonaccrual retail loans totaled $11.7 million, measuring 0.42% of total retail loans.

Allowance for Credit Losses on Loans

The allowance totaled $105.4 million at December 31, 2023, an increase of $9.1 million from December 31, 2022, primarily reflecting growth in the loan portfolio together with an increase in the qualitative reserve for non-owner occupied commercial real estate loans due to uncertain market conditions. The ratio of the allowance to total loans decreased to 1.17% from 1.15% for these respective dates.

For the commercial loan portfolio, the allowance for credit losses as a percentage of commercial loans was 1.23% at December 31, 2023, compared to 1.15% at December 31, 2022. The commercial allowance for credit losses represented 548% of nonaccrual commercial loans at December 31, 2023 compared to 326% at December 31, 2022.

58

Table of Contents

For the retail loan portfolio, the allowance for credit losses as a percentage of retail loans was 1.05% at December 31, 2023 compared to 1.17% at December 31, 2022. The retail allowance for credit losses represented 404% of nonaccrual retail loans at December 31, 2023 compared to 282% at December 31, 2022.

Deposits and Borrowings

Total deposits were $10.6 billion at December 31, 2023, a $306 million increase from year-end 2022. Most categories of deposits decreased except for higher cost time deposits as customers sought higher rate deposits in the environment of higher interest rates. Non-interest bearing deposits totaled $2.5 billion at December 31, 2023, a $383 million decrease from December 31, 2022. Non-maturity interest-bearing deposits totaled $5.5 billion, a $363 million decrease from year-end 2022. Period-end time deposits totaled $2.7 billion, increasing $1.1 billion during the year. Borrowings totaled $385 million at period-end, increasing $381 million from year-end 2022. The increase was due to the utilization of Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston advances primarily to fund loan growth.

Derivative Financial Instruments

The notional amount of derivative financial instruments totaled $4.8 billion at period-end, increasing $263 million from year-end 2022. The net fair value of these instruments at December 31, 2023 was a liability of $30 million, compared to a liability of $43 million at December 31, 2022.

Shareholders’ Equity and Dividends

Total shareholders’ equity was $1.01 billion at December 31, 2023, a $58 million increase from December 31, 2022. This primarily reflects net income of $70 million and other comprehensive income of $38 million partially offset by $32 million in common stock dividends at $0.72 per share and share repurchases totaling $24 million for the repurchase of 103,000 shares. Other comprehensive income reflected a decrease in the after-tax net unrealized losses on available for sale debt securities and derivative hedges primarily due to the $25 million realized loss on the sale of securities near year-end 2023.

LIQUIDITY AND CASH FLOWS

Liquidity is defined as the ability to generate sufficient cash flows to meet all present and future funding requirements at reasonable costs for the Company, including the Bank. Liquidity management addresses both the Company’s ability to fund new loans and investments as opportunities arise, to meet customer deposit withdrawals and to repay borrowings and subordinated notes as they mature. In the first quarter of 2023, the banking industry faced heightened focus on liquidity following the failure of several large banks. In response, the Company increased borrowings and short-term investments and also increased its off-balance sheet liquidity sources primarily by increasing its assets qualified for pledging against borrowings. The Company views its liquidity as satisfactory for current conditions as well as for stressed scenarios in its liquidity testing models.

At December 31, 2023, cash and equivalents totaled $1.2 billion and securities available for sale totaled $1.0 billion. Unused borrowing capacity at that date from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston “FHLBB” and the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston (“FRB”) totaled $4.0 billion, compared to $2.1 billion at year-end 2022. Borrowings from these sources are supported by collateral, to the extent utilized. The increase in borrowing capacity in 2023 was primarily due to the Company’s strategic focus to improve collateral efficiency, which began in early 2023 before market conditions worsened due to bank failures.

During 2023, growth of time deposits was the primary source of funds and the primary uses were loan growth and net outflows of non-maturity deposits. At year-end 2023, money market deposits and short-term investments were elevated due to short-term commercial deposit balances held at period-end.

CAPITAL RESOURCES

Please see the “Shareholders’ Equity” section of the Comparison of Financial Condition for a discussion of shareholders’ equity together with the note on Shareholders' Equity in the consolidated financial statements.

59

Table of Contents

Additional information about capital resources and regulatory capital is contained in the notes to the consolidated financial statements and in Item 1 of this report.

The Company’s goal is to maintain sound capitalization and use capital generation to support organic growth and shareholder distributions in the form of dividends and stock repurchases. The Company’s goal is to maintain a “well-capitalized” regulatory designation under projected and stressed financial projections.

In recent periods, the Company has returned excess capital to shareholders through stock repurchases. Additionally, the Company increased the quarterly dividend by 50% in the fourth quarter of 2022. The Company’s long-term goal is to maintain an efficient capital structure and to provide a return in excess of the cost of its common equity capital.

As a result of rising interest rates, available for sale bond portfolios in banks are subject to unrealized losses which result in charges against other comprehensive income (“AOCI”) and reduce the book value of shareholders’ equity. Like many of its peers, the Company utilizes an option in reporting its regulatory equity which excludes changes in AOCI in the calculation of regulatory capital.

Reductions in bond valuations due to changes in market interest rates are reversed as bonds approach maturity. These reversals are accreted to AOCI over time, restoring the book value of equity. Tangible common equity totaled $993 million at period-end and was net of an accumulated other comprehensive loss totaling $143 million.

While the Company monitors the book value of equity and related metrics, it primarily manages capital based on regulatory capital measures, with a focus on the common equity Tier 1 capital ratio. The Company continues to view itself as having excess capital which it plans to utilize in accordance with its capital management objectives. During the fourth quarter of 2023, the company sold $267 million of available for sale securities at a $25 million loss, which was recorded as a reduction in accumulated other comprehensive loss and in retained earnings. This had no impact on the total book value of equity but did reduce regulatory capital.

As of December 31, 2023 unrealized gains and losses, net of tax, are included in average equity and in average non-interest earning assets. Prior period balances and financial metrics have been updated to reflect the current presentation. Performance measures related to return on average equity, including related non-GAAP performance measures, are presented both based on the updated averages as well as based on measures which exclude these unrealized gains and losses, net of tax. These unrealized gains and losses are primarily related to the fair values of available-for-sale securities.

In acting as a source of strength for the Bank, the Company relies in the long term on capital distributions from the Bank in order to provide operating and capital service for the Company, which in turn can access national financial markets to provide financial support to the Bank. Capital distributions from the Bank to the parent company presently require approval by the FDIC.

APPLICATION OF CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The Company’s significant accounting policies and modifications to significant accounting policies made during the year are described in Note 1 to the financial statements. The preparation of the financial statements is in accordance with GAAP and general practices applicable to the financial services industry. This preparation requires management to make estimates, assumptions, and judgements that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. The judgment and assumptions made are based upon historical experience, future forecasts, or other factors that management believes to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results could differ from those estimates, assumptions, and judgements.

Not all significant accounting policies require management to make difficult, subjective or complex judgments. Certain estimates inherently have a greater reliance on the use of assumptions and judgments and, as such, have a greater possibility of producing results that could be materially different than originally reported. The following significant accounting policies are considered most critical in that they are important to the Company’s financial condition and results, and they require management’s subjective and complex judgment as a result of the need to make estimates about the effects of matters that are inherently uncertain. Both of these most critical accounting policies were significant in determining income and financial condition based on events in 2023.

60

Table of Contents

Allowance for Credit Losses on Loans

The allowance for credit losses on loans (“ACLL”) represents management’s estimate of expected credit losses over the expected contractual life of our loan portfolio. Determining the appropriateness of the ACLL is complex and requires judgment by management about the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain. Subsequent evaluations of the then-existing loan portfolio, in light of the factors then prevailing, may result in significant changes in the ACLL in those future periods.

The appropriateness of the ACLL could change significantly because current economic conditions and forecasts can change and future events are inherently difficult to predict. It is difficult to estimate how potential changes in any one economic factor or input might affect the overall allowance because a wide variety of factors and inputs are considered in estimating the allowance and changes in those factors and inputs considered may not occur at the same rate and may not be consistent across all product types. Additionally, changes in factors and inputs may be directionally inconsistent, such that improvement in one factor may offset deterioration in others. One of the most significant judgments used in determining the allowance for credit losses is the macroeconomic forecast provided by a third party. Changes in the macroeconomic forecast, especially for the national unemployment rate, could significantly impact the calculated estimated credit losses.

While management utilizes its best judgment and information available, the ultimate adequacy of our ACLL is dependent upon a variety of factors beyond our control, including the performance of our portfolios, the economy, and changes in interest rates. For detailed information on the ACLL see Note 1- Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Note 6 – Loans and Allowance for Credit Losses.

Fair Value Measurements

The Company uses fair value measurements to determine fair value disclosures and to record fair value adjustments to certain assets and liabilities, such as interest rate swaps, individually evaluated loans, securities available for sale, and derivatives. Our fair values are based on the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. Additionally, from time to time, the Company may be required to record certain assets at fair value on a non-recurring basis, such as certain individually evaluated loans held for investment and capitalized servicing rights. These non-recurring fair value adjustments typically involve write-downs of individual assets due to application of lower-of-cost or market accounting or other accounting standards.

Management has established and documented a process for determining fair value. The use of observable inputs is maximized and the use of unobservable inputs is minimized when developing fair value measurements. Whenever there is no readily available market data, management uses its best estimate and assumptions in determining fair value, but these estimates involve inherent uncertainties and the application of management’s judgment. As a result, if other assumptions had been used, our recorded earnings or disclosures could have been materially different from those reflected in these financial statements. For detailed information on our use of fair value measurements and our related valuation methodologies, see Note 1 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Note 21 – Fair Value Measurements for more information.

ENTERPRISE RISK MANAGEMENT

Other sections of this report on Form 10-K include discussion of market risk and risk factors. Risk management is overseen by the Company’s Chief Risk Officer, who reports directly to the CEO. This position oversees risk management policy, credit, loan review, compliance, and information security. Enterprise risk assessments are brought to the Company’s Enterprise Risk Management Committee, and then are reported to the Board’s Risk Management, Capital & Compliance Committee.

The Company includes recessionary/inflationary risk overlays on all of the material business risks to capture the uncertainties of the economic environment. The Company has also developed recession toolkits and playbooks that outline mitigating factors and actions that strive to minimize losses under such scenarios. Both of these items are addressed throughout the assessments and dashboards provided to the above Committees.

The high level corporate risk assessment focuses on the following material business risks: credit risk, interest rate risk, price risk, liquidity risk, operational risk, compliance risk, strategic risk, and reputation risk, with the credit risk category having the highest weighting. For all material business risks, residual risk was viewed as medium/low to medium due to mitigating controls functioning in the Company. In 2023, price risk remained elevated in relation to

61

Table of Contents

the corporate appetite due to the impact of higher interest rates on the behavior and value of various interest sensitive instruments and operations. Residual price risk was viewed as medium including the impact of mitigating factors and management actions in the risk management environment.

LIBOR TRANSITION

In 2023, the Company completed the transition away from the use of LIBOR based instruments in the context of the industry-wide transition program. The Company had in excess of $5 billion in notional balances of LIBOR based instruments related primarily to its commercial banking operations. These include loan interest rate indices as well as interest rate swap contracts based on LIBOR. The Company has transitioned to indices based on SOFR.

CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITY & SUSTAINABILITY

Berkshire’s Approach

Since its founding in 1846, Berkshire remains a purpose-driven and values-guided institution working to achieve its vision of becoming a high-performing, relationship-driven, community-focused bank. Berkshire empowers the financial potential of its stakeholders by delivering industry-leading financial expertise and a full suite of tailored banking solutions through its consumer banking, commercial banking and wealth management divisions to clients in New England and New York. For more than 175 years, Berkshire has provided strength, stability and trusted advice to create a positive impact for its clients and communities while upholding equitable, ethical, responsible and sustainable business practices.

Berkshire’s longstanding commitment to operating equitably, responsibly and sustainably is interwoven into the company’s vision, mission, business practices, and strategic goals. Berkshire’s integrated approach to managing the environmental, social and governance externalities helps reduce risk and unlock new business opportunities to create an ecosystem of positive impact and value, which in turn drives Berkshire’s commercial performance, creating capacity to invest more in its business, employees, customers, shareholders and communities.

Oversight and Reporting

The management of material environmental, social and governance factors is integral to Berkshire’s business practices, risk management program, competitive positioning and its ability to deliver on its strategic priorities and vision. Berkshire was one of the first banks in the country to establish a dedicated committee of its Board of Directors to oversee corporate culture, diversity and sustainability and are a leader among community banks in integrating these practices into its business strategy and operations.

The Company maintains a strong foundation of governance systems, including:

•Board level oversight of Company Culture, Sustainability, Social Responsibility, Climate Change, and Diversity

•Corporate Responsibility & Culture Committee of its Board of Directors

•Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Committee

•Diversity Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Committee

•Responsible & Sustainable Business Policy

•Climate Risk Management Program

•Lending, credit, deposit and investment policies which incorporate environmental and social considerations along with due diligence requirements

•Active involvement from business unit leaders and front lines in managing externalities and risks

•Senior leadership for corporate responsibility and sustainability

The Board of Directors including its Corporate Responsibility & Culture Committee ("CRCC") has ultimate oversight responsibility for environmental, social and governance matters. The CRCC meets quarterly to review performance and approve relevant policies. In addition, the company established management Committees comprised of executives and senior leaders throughout the organization to assist in the management and oversight of ESG and DEI activities. Berkshire’s comprehensive approach ensures that the board receives regular reports from management on environmental and social dimensions of its business such as human capital management, diversity, stakeholder relations, climate change, community impact, and cybersecurity. It allows the board to develop a sufficient understanding of the Company’s impacts, management’s programs to mitigate those risks and capture

62

Table of Contents

opportunities. It helps inform strategic planning, create accountability and, along with management committees and senior leaders, provides visibility throughout the organization.

Berkshire regularly engages directly with its stakeholders to share information about the progress it’s made in its performance, including through its website, corporate annual report, and proxy statement. Additionally, Berkshire’s annual Corporate Responsibility & Sustainability Report, which is aligned with Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (“SASB”) and Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosure ("TCFD") disclosure standards, details the Company's programs and performance.

BEST Community Comeback

Berkshire launched the BEST Community Comeback in late 2021, a transformational commitment to empower its stakeholders’ financial potential. The plan focuses on four areas critical to the long-term vibrancy and success of its communities: fueling small businesses; community financing and philanthropy; financial access and empowerment; and environmental sustainability. Through this far-reaching initiative, Berkshire aims to help create more businesses and jobs, help more families achieve the dream of owning a home, and aid communities in becoming more environmentally efficient and eco-friendly. Berkshire has made steady progress towards achieving its goal of deploying $5 billion to support its communities by the end of 2024. As of year-end and since launching the program, Berkshire has deployed more than $2.5 billion into low-moderate income neighborhoods, $591 million to support low-carbon projects, increased its lending to underrepresented homebuyers and transitioned its own electricity supply to 100% renewables.

Sustainable Finance & Impact Investments

Berkshire became the first public U.S. community bank holding company with under $150 billion in assets to issue a Sustainability Bond with a $100 million issuance last year. In 2023, Berkshire allocated the proceeds from its inaugural sustainability bond to projects resulting in the creation of 330 units of affordable and workforce housing along with more than 200,000 square feet of green building development. Proceeds from the bond were allocated in alignment with Berkshire's Sustainable Financing Framework. Sustainalytics, a Morningstar Company, and the global leader in high-quality ESG research, ratings, and data, independently verified that Berkshire's Sustainable Financing Framework "is credible and impactful and aligns with the International Capital Market Association's ("ICMA") Sustainability Bond Guidelines 2021, Green Bond Principles 2021 and Social Bond Principles 2021." The subordinated Sustainability Bond issuance also received an investment grade rating of Baa3 from Moody's Investors Service. Berkshire's Sustainability Bond Report further details how proceeds were allocated to support affordable housing, workforce housing, green building and financial access and inclusion projects in communities across New England and New York.

Beyond its sustainability bond, Berkshire looks for innovative ways to advance its business priorities through sustainable finance and impact investing. As a result, Berkshire makes targeted impact investments in Small Business Investment Companies ("SBIC") and other strategically aligned assets that are within risk appetite and drive a competitive rate of return. The Company also has a strong tax-credit business whereby it makes targeted investments in low-income housing tax credits ("LIHTC"), historic tax credits ("HTC") and solar tax credits to further Berkshire’s goals and strengthen its Community Reinvestment Act ("CRA") performance. These investments help bring to life important economic development, revitalization and renewable energy projects while providing an appropriate return to the bank consistent with its capital and tax strategies.

Climate Change

Climate Change manifesting in the form of both physical or transition risks could adversely, either directly or indirectly, affect Berkshire’s operations, businesses, customers, communities, and its stakeholders. As the transition to a low-carbon economy accelerates, new policy emerges, and market dynamics shift, Berkshire expects that its efforts to manage its environmental footprint, mitigate the risks associated with climate change, and support the transition will allow it to strengthen its competitive positioning. The Company continues to evolve its practices to align with its mission, current and expected regulations as well as the size, scope, and complexity of its operations.

The physical risks of climate change over short, medium and long-term horizons include weather-related events, such as flooding and tornados, and longer-term shifts in climate patterns, such as extreme heat, rising sea levels and more severe droughts. Such events could disrupt Berkshire’s operations, impact customers, or third parties on which Berkshire relies, including through direct damage to physical assets and indirect impacts from supply chain disruption and market volatility. This could impact borrowers’ ability to repay obligations, devalue physical assets

63

Table of Contents

resulting in uncertain residual values and affect third-parties ability to deliver on service expectations. In turn, this could lead to operational disruptions, loan losses and an inability to fully recoup funds due to uncertain residual values over long-term horizons.

Transition risks over short, medium and long-term horizons can include changes in consumer preferences, additional regulatory requirements or policy such as taxes, and use of new technologies. Such developments could increase Berkshire, its customers and third-parties operating costs, reduce demand for services from select customer segments and impact current strategies. Reputation and customer relationships could be damaged as a result of Berkshire’s practices related to climate change mitigation as well as through its or its customers direct or indirect involvement with industries or projects with heighten climate related risks. Over the long-term, transition risks could also manifest in potential credit impacts affecting borrowers’ ability to repay obligations, increasing operating costs, creating stranded assets, uncertainty of residual values and potential loan losses.

Collectively these physical and transition risks are managed through a formal Climate Risk Management Program which outlines roles and responsibilities for the board, management and all employees, definitions, along with procedures for identifying, measuring and assessing climate risk. The program also lays out Berkshire’s system of controls which include governance mechanisms, formal policies, due diligence and insurance requirements, exclusionary criteria, business continuity planning, external relations, and employee education. Finally, the program sets expectations for responses to risk events or elevated risk levels, reporting and external disclosure. Ultimately the program helps identify, assess, mitigate and control climate risks protecting the Company, its stakeholders, communities and preserving shareholder value.

The Company’s Board of Directors Corporate Responsibility & Culture Committee provides oversight of sustainability and climate change. Management and the board evaluate climate related risks and opportunities and incorporate the results of risk assessments and discussions into strategic planning, product development, programming and relevant risk mitigating measures. All business risks are also integrated into our Enterprise Risk Management program and discussed by other applicable Board Committees including the Risk Management, Capital & Compliance Committee. Both Committees report into the full board. Beyond board level oversight of climate matters, Berkshire maintains an Environmental, Social and Governance Committee comprised of senior executives throughout the Company. Business lines identify base-tier climate risks and Berkshire also completes an annual climate change risk assessment to assess the bank’s operations and lending activities for potential exposure to transition and physical risks as well as evaluate its related controls. The results of the risk assessment guide Berkshire’s forward climate management and environmental sustainability strategies to ensure its actively managing the risks and opportunities.

As Berkshire looks to further strengthen its management of climate related risks and opportunities, it expects to mature its climate risk management program and Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions strategies, in addition to its existing sustainable finance and renewable electricity goals. As the Company moves further along in its climate journey, it will look to enhance its disclosures, including scope 3 emissions, programs, mitigating controls and initiatives to minimize risk, reduce its emissions as well as capitalize on the many business opportunities arising from the transition to a lower-carbon economy. Further details on Berkshire’s governance, risk management, strategy, metrics & targets and next steps can be found in its most recent Corporate Responsibility & Sustainability Report.

Ratings, Awards & Recognition

Berkshire is proud to be recognized for its performance with local, regional, national, and international awards as well as leading third party ESG ratings* including:

•Top 20% aggregated ESG rating, achieving one of five major BEST goals

•MSCI ESG- A

•ISS ESG Quality Score - Environment: 3, Social: 2, Governance: 2

•Bloomberg ESG Disclosure- 62.81

•Sustainalytics Rated

•Communitas Award for Leadership in Corporate Social Responsibility

•Boston Business Journal Top Charitable Contributor

•America’s Most Trustworthy Companies – Newsweek

•America’s Best Regional Banks - Newsweek

•Forbes America’s Best Midsize Employers

•Bloomberg Gender-Equality Index

64

Table of Contents

•Human Rights Campaign Corporate Equality Index

*As of December 31, 2023

FY 2022 10-K MD&A

SEC filing source: 0001108134-23-000006.

Extracted structurally from real Item 7 body heading to real Item 7A/8 boundary. Confidence: high. Filing date: 2023-03-01. Report date: 2022-12-31.

ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

The following summary data is based in part on the Consolidated Financial Statements and accompanying notes, and other schedules appearing elsewhere in this Form 10-K. Historical data is also based in part on, and should be read in conjunction with, prior filings with the SEC.

At or For the Years Ended December 31,
(In thousands, except per share data)20222021202020192018
Per Common Share Data:
Net earnings/(loss), diluted - continuing operations$2.02$2.39$(10.21)$2.05$2.36
Net (loss)/earnings, diluted - discontinued operations(0.39)(0.08)(0.07)
Net earnings/(loss), diluted$2.02$2.39$(10.60)$1.97$2.29
Total book value per common share21.5124.3023.3734.6533.30
Dividends0.540.480.720.920.88
Common stock price:
High31.7829.1633.0433.7244.25
Low23.6216.358.5526.0225.77
Close29.9028.4317.1232.8826.97
Performance Ratios: (1)
Return on assets0.82%0.98%(4.15)%0.75%0.90%
Return on equity7.7610.18(37.50)5.756.84
Return on tangible common equity8.2610.80(48.60)9.3611.41
Net interest margin, fully taxable equivalent (FTE) (2)3.262.602.723.173.40
Fee income/Net interest and fee income15.6622.4918.1023.8623.36
Growth Ratios:
Total commercial loans12.99%(12.09)%(4.58)%9.19%6.17%
Total loans22.11(15.54)(14.95)5.088.96
Total deposits2.57(1.44)(1.16)15.072.66
Earnings per share, (compared to prior year)(15.48)122.55(638.07)(13.97)64.75
Selected Financial Data:
Total assets$11,662,864$11,554,913$12,838,013$13,215,970$12,212,231
Total earning assets10,913,06910,899,10912,089,93911,916,00711,140,307
Securities2,033,4362,548,5902,223,4171,769,8781,918,604
Total loans8,335,3096,825,8478,081,5199,502,4289,043,253
Allowance for credit losses(96,270)(106,094)(127,302)(63,575)(61,469)
Total intangible assets24,48326,61934,819599,377551,743
Total deposits10,327,26910,068,95310,215,80810,335,9778,982,381
Total borrowings125,509110,844571,637827,5501,517,816
Total shareholders’ equity954,0621,182,4351,187,7731,758,5641,552,918

42

Table of Contents

At or For the Years Ended December 31,
20222021202020192018
Selected Operating Data:
Total interest and dividend income$387,257$329,065$409,782$509,513$465,894
Total interest expense42,66037,89993,000144,255109,694
Net interest income344,597291,166316,782365,258356,200
Fee income63,99584,46269,99076,82474,026
All other non-interest income/(loss)4,94258,786(3,683)7,178298
Total net revenue413,534434,414383,089449,260430,524
Provision for credit losses11,000(500)75,87835,41925,451
Total non-interest expense288,716285,893840,239289,857266,893
Income/(loss) from continuing operations before income taxes113,818149,021(533,028)123,984138,180
Income tax expense/(benefit) from continuing operations21,28530,357(19,853)22,46328,961
Net income/(loss) from continuing operations92,533118,664(513,175)101,521109,219
(Loss)/income from discontinued operations before income taxes(26,855)(5,539)(4,767)
Income tax (benefit)/expense from discontinued operations(7,013)(1,468)(1,313)
Net (loss)/income from discontinued operations(19,842)(4,071)(3,454)
Net income/(loss)$92,533$118,664$(533,017)$97,450$105,765
Basic earnings/(loss) per common share:
Continuing operations$2.03$2.41$(10.21)$2.06$2.38
Discontinued operations(0.39)(0.08)(0.08)
Total basic earnings/(loss) per share$2.03$2.41$(10.60)$1.98$2.30
Diluted earnings/(loss) per common share:
Continuing operations$2.02$2.39$(10.21)$2.05$2.36
Discontinued operations(0.39)(0.08)(0.07)
Total diluted earnings/(loss) per share$2.02$2.39$(10.60)$1.97$2.29
Weighted average common shares outstanding - basic45,56449,24050,27049,26346,024
Weighted average common shares outstanding - diluted45,91449,55450,27049,42146,231
Dividends per preferred share$$$1.20$1.84$1.76
Dividends per common share$0.54$0.48$0.72$0.92$0.88
Asset Quality and Condition Ratios: (3)
Net loans charged-off/average loans0.27%0.29%0.41%0.35%0.18%
Allowance for credit losses/total loans1.151.551.580.670.68
Loans/deposits81687992101
Capital Ratios:
Tier 1 capital to average assets - Company10.18%10.49%9.38%9.33%9.04%
Total capital to risk-weighted assets - Company14.6017.3216.1013.7312.99
Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets - Company12.6015.3014.0612.3011.57
Shareholders’ equity/total assets8.1810.239.2513.3112.73

43

Table of Contents

___________________________________

(1)  All performance ratios are annualized and are based on average balance sheet amounts, where applicable.

(2) Fully taxable equivalent considers the impact of tax advantaged investment securities and loans.

(3)  For periods prior to 2020, generally accepted accounting principles require that loans acquired in a business combination be recorded at fair value, whereas loans from business activities are recorded at cost. The fair value of loans acquired in a business combination includes expected credit losses, and there is no loan loss allowance recorded for these loans at the time of acquisition. Accordingly, the ratio of the loan loss allowance to total loans is reduced as a result of the existence of such loans, and this measure is not directly comparable to prior periods. Similarly, net loan charge-offs are normally reduced for loans acquired in a business combination since these loans are recorded net of expected credit losses. Therefore, the ratio of net loan charge-offs to average loans is reduced as a result of the existence of such loans, and this measure is not directly comparable to prior periods. Other institutions may have loans acquired in a business combination, and therefore there may be no direct comparability of these ratios between and among other institutions.

44

Table of Contents

Average Balances, Interest and Average Yields/Cost

The following table presents an analysis of average rates and yields on a fully taxable equivalent basis for the years presented. Tax exempt interest revenue is shown on a tax-equivalent basis for proper comparison.

Item 7 - Table 3 - Average Balance, Interest and Average Yields / Costs

202220212020
(Dollars in millions)Average BalanceInterestAverage Yield/ RateAverage BalanceInterestAverage Yield/ RateAverage BalanceInterestAverage Yield/ Rate
Assets
Loans: (1)(2)
Commercial real estate$3,836.2$167.74.37%$3,600.2$124.43.46%$3,958.6$151.53.83%
Commercial and industrial loans1,435.374.75.201,527.671.84.702,049.487.74.28
Residential loans1,784.263.33.551,560.458.43.752,324.387.83.78
Consumer loans556.832.15.77569.122.03.87828.131.33.78
Total loans7,612.5337.84.447,257.3276.63.819,160.4358.33.91
Investment securities (2)(3)2,489.751.22.062,283.649.42.161,845.254.62.96
Short-term investments and loans held for sale (4)569.14.90.861,619.42.30.58767.24.40.64
Mid-Atlantic region loans held for sale179.57.13.9725.20.41.07
Total interest-earning assets10,671.3393.93.6911,339.8335.42.6011,798.0417.73.55
Intangible assets26.832.0316.1
Other non-interest earning assets (4)648.5684.1747.1
Total assets$11,346.6$12,055.9$12,861.2
Liabilities and shareholders' equity
Deposits:
NOW and other$1,416.7$6.10.43%$1,340.2$1.00.07%$1,216.6$3.50.29%
Money market2,809.113.80.492,749.75.30.192,713.615.30.56
Savings1,114.80.40.031,067.70.50.05914.10.90.10
Certificates of deposit1,541.713.10.851,978.918.60.943,102.952.51.69
Total interest-bearing deposits6,882.333.40.497,136.525.40.367,947.272.20.91
Borrowings and notes (5)176.19.25.24320.210.73.34841.620.72.46
Mid-Atlantic region interest-bearing deposits335.11.80.5445.00.10.80
Total interest-bearing liabilities7,058.442.60.607,791.837.90.498,833.893.01.06
Non-interest-bearing demand deposits2,914.92,817.42,324.6
Other non-interest-bearing liabilities (4)180.1280.9281.4
Total liabilities10,153.410,890.111,439.8
Total shareholders' equity1,193.21,165.81,421.4
Total liabilities and equity$11,346.6$12,055.9$12,861.2
Net interest income$351.3$297.5$324.7

45

Table of Contents

202220212020
(Dollars in millions)Average BalanceInterestAverage Yield/ RateAverage BalanceInterestAverage Yield/ RateAverage BalanceInterestAverage Yield/ Rate
Net interest spread3.09%2.12%2.49%
Net interest margin (6)3.262.602.72
Cost of funds0.430.350.84
Cost of deposits0.340.260.71
Interest-earning assets/interest-bearing liabilities151.19149.67133.95
Supplementary data
Total non-maturity deposits$8,255.5$7,975.0$7,168.9
Total deposits9,797.29,954.010,271.8
Fully taxable equivalent adjustment6.66.36.4

____________________________________

Notes:

(1) The average balances of loans include nonaccrual loans, and deferred fees and costs. As of December 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, deferred fees related to PPP loans totaled $0.1 million and 0.2 million, respectively.

(2) The yield on tax-exempt loans and securities is computed on a fully tax-equivalent basis using a tax rate of 27%.

(3) The average balance of investment securities is based on amortized cost.

(4) Includes discontinued operations.

(5) The average balances of borrowings and notes include the capital lease obligation presented under other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet.

(6) Purchase accounting accretion totaled $2.0 million, $6.7 million, and $9.9 million for the years-ended December 31, 2022, 2021, and 2020, respectively. The effect of purchase accounting accretion on the net interest margin was an increase in all years, which is shown sequentially as follows beginning with the most recent year and ending with the earliest year: 0.02%, 0.09%, and 0.12%.

46

Table of Contents

Rate/Volume Analysis

The following table presents the effects of rate and volume changes on the fully taxable equivalent net interest income. Tax exempt interest revenue is shown on a tax-equivalent basis for proper comparison. For each category of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities, information is provided with respect to changes attributable to (1) changes in rate (change in rate multiplied by prior year volume), (2) changes in volume (change in volume multiplied by prior year rate), and (3) changes in volume/rate (change in rate multiplied by change in volume) have been allocated proportionately based on the absolute value of the change due to the rate and the change due to volume. There are no out-of-period adjustments included in the rate/volume analysis in the following table.

Item 7 - Table 4 - Rate Volume Analysis

2022 Compared with 20212021 Compared with 2020
(Decrease) Increase Due to(Decrease) Increase Due to
(In thousands)RateVolumeNetRateVolumeNet
Interest income:
Commercial real estate$34,681$8,582$43,263$(14,027)$(13,071)$(27,098)
Commercial and industrial loans7,397(4,501)2,8967,962(23,913)(15,951)
Residential loans(3,179)8,0614,882(762)(28,622)(29,384)
Consumer loans10,572(482)10,090704(10,014)(9,310)
Total loans49,47111,66061,131(6,123)(75,620)(81,743)
Investment securities(2,468)4,3161,848(16,598)11,341(5,257)
Short-term investments and loans held for sale (1)4,968(2,335)2,633(5,508)2,980(2,528)
Mid-Atlantic region loans held for sale(7,120)(7,120)(1,480)8,6007,120
Total interest income$51,971$6,521$58,492$(29,709)$(52,699)$(82,408)
Interest expense:
NOW accounts$5,053$62$5,115$(2,832)$327$(2,505)
Money market accounts8,4021168,518(10,259)201(10,058)
Savings accounts(204)23(181)(536)137(399)
Certificates of deposit(1,593)(3,839)(5,432)(18,740)(15,233)(33,973)
Total deposits11,658(3,638)8,020(32,367)(14,568)(46,935)
Borrowings4,568(6,010)(1,442)5,691(15,702)(10,011)
Mid-Atlantic region interest-bearing deposits(1,820)(1,820)8141,0061,820
Total interest expense$16,226$(11,468)$4,758$(25,862)$(29,264)$(55,126)
Change in net interest income$35,745$17,989$53,734$(3,847)$(23,435)$(27,282)

47

Table of Contents

NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES

This document contains certain non-GAAP financial measures in addition to results presented in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“GAAP”). These non-GAAP measures are intended to provide the reader with additional supplemental perspectives on operating results, performance trends, and financial condition. Non-GAAP financial measures are not a substitute for GAAP measures; they should be read and used in conjunction with the Company’s GAAP financial information. A reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures to GAAP measures is provided below. In all cases, it should be understood that non-GAAP measures do not depict amounts that accrue directly to the benefit of shareholders. An item which management excludes when computing non-GAAP adjusted earnings can be of substantial importance to the Company’s results for any particular quarter or year. The Company’s non-GAAP adjusted earnings information set forth is not necessarily comparable to non-GAAP information which may be presented by other companies. Each non-GAAP measure used by the Company in this report as supplemental financial data should be considered in conjunction with the Company’s GAAP financial information.

The Company utilizes the non-GAAP measure of adjusted earnings in evaluating operating trends, including components for operating revenue and expense. These measures exclude amounts which the Company views as unrelated to its normalized operations. These items primarily include securities gains/losses, merger costs, restructuring costs, goodwill impairment, and discontinued operations.

In 2022, the restructuring expense adjustment primarily related to the termination of leasehold interests and the write-down of related right of use assets and leasehold improvements in conjunction with branch consolidations and real estate reductions.

In 2021, the Company recorded a third quarter net gain of $52 million on the sale of the operations of the insurance subsidiary and the Mid-Atlantic branch operations. Expense adjustments in the first quarter 2021 were primarily related to branch consolidations. Third quarter 2021 adjustments included Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings prepayment costs. They also included other restructuring charges for efficiency initiatives in operations areas including write-downs on real estate moved to held for sale and severance related to staff reductions. The fourth quarter 2021 revenue adjustment was primarily related to trailing revenue on a previously reported sale, and the expense adjustment was due primarily to branch restructuring costs.

Discontinued operations are the Company’s national mortgage banking operations for which the Company completed the wind down of operations in 2020. Merger costs consist primarily of severance/benefit related expenses, contract termination costs, systems conversion costs, variable compensation expenses, and professional fees. There were no merger costs in 2020. Restructuring costs generally consist of costs and losses associated with the disposition of assets and liabilities and lease terminations, including costs related to branch sales. Restructuring costs also include severance and consulting expenses related to the Company’s strategic review. They also include costs related to the consolidation of branches. Restructuring expense and other for 2020 primarily related to executive separation expense as a result of the CEO transition.

The Company calculates certain profitability measures based on its adjusted revenue, expenses, and earnings. The Company also calculates adjusted earnings per share based on its measure of adjusted earnings. The Company views these amounts as important to understanding its operating trends, particularly due to the impact of accounting standards related to merger and acquisition activity. Analysts also rely on these measures in estimating and evaluating the Company’s performance. Management also believes that the computation of non-GAAP adjusted earnings and adjusted earnings per share may facilitate the comparison of the Company to other companies in the financial services industry.

Due to the anticipated earnings volatility resulting from loan loss provisions reflecting changes in estimates of uncertain future economic conditions under the new CECL accounting standard, many users of bank financial statements are focusing on Pre-Provision Net Revenue (“PPNR”). This is a measure of revenue less expenses, and is calculated before the loan loss provision and income tax expense. This measure gives clearer visibility of the operations of the company during the periods presented in the income statements, without the impact of period-end estimates of future uncertain events. This measure also enhances comparisons of operations across different banks, which might have significantly different period-end estimates of uncertain future economic conditions that affect the loan loss provision. Consistent with its previous practices measuring results on an adjusted basis before the impacts

48

Table of Contents

of acquisitions, divestitures, and other designated items, the Company has introduced the measure of Adjusted Pre-Provision Net Revenue (“Adjusted PPNR”) which measures PPNR excluding adjustments for items not viewed as related to ongoing operations. This measure is now integral to the Company’s analysis of its operations, and is not viewed as a substitute for GAAP measures of net income. Analysts also use this measure in assessing the Company’s operations and in making comparisons across banks. The Company and analysts also measure Adjusted PPNR/Assets in order to utilize the PPNR measure in assessing its comparative operating profitability. This measure primarily relies on the measures of adjusted revenue and adjusted expense already used in the Company’s calculation of its efficiency ratio.

The Company also adjusts certain equity related measures to exclude intangible assets due to the importance of these measures to the investment community.

The following table summarizes the reconciliation of non-GAAP items recorded for the time periods indicated:

At or For the Years Ended
(Dollars in thousands)December 31, 2022December 31, 2021December 31, 2020
GAAP Net income/(loss)$92,533$118,664$(533,017)
Non-GAAP measures
Adj: Loss on securities, net2,0317877,520
Adj: Goodwill impairment553,762
Adj: Net gains on sale of business operations(52,942)(1,240)
Adj: Acquisition, restructuring, conversion, and other related expenses (1)8,9095,7815,839
Adj: Loss from discontinued operations before income taxes26,855
Adj: Income taxes(2,940)11,696(29,342)
Net non-operating charges8,000(34,678)563,394
Total adjusted net income (non-GAAP)$100,533$83,986$30,377
GAAP Total revenue from continuing operations$413,534$434,414$383,089
Adj: Loss on securities, net2,0317877,520
Adj: Net gains on sale of business operations(52,942)(1,240)
Total adjusted operating revenue (non-GAAP)$415,565$382,259$389,369
GAAP Total non-interest expense from continuing operations$288,716$285,893$840,239
Less: Total non-operating expense (see above)(8,909)(5,781)(5,839)
Less: Goodwill impairment(553,762)
Adjusted operating non-interest expense (non-GAAP)$279,807$280,112$280,638
Pre-tax, pre-provision net revenue (PPNR) from continuing operations$124,818$148,521$(457,150)
Adjusted pre-tax, pre-provision net revenue (PPNR)135,758102,147108,731
(in millions, except per share data)
Total average assets$11,347$12,056$12,861
Total average shareholders' equity1,1931,1661,421
Total average tangible shareholders equity1,1661,1341,105
Total average tangible common shareholders equity1,1661,1341,088
Total tangible shareholders’ equity, period-end9301,1531,153
Total tangible common shareholders’ equity, period-end9301,1531,153
Total tangible assets, period-end11,63811,52512,803
Total common shares outstanding, period-end (thousands)44,36148,66750,833
Average diluted shares outstanding (thousands)45,91449,55450,308
Earnings/(loss) per share, diluted$2.02$2.39$(10.60)
Plus: Net adjustments per share, diluted0.17(0.70)11.20
Adjusted earnings per share, diluted2.191.690.60
Book value per common share, period-end21.5124.3023.37
Tangible book value per common share, period-end20.9523.6922.68
Total shareholders' equity/total assets8.1810.239.25
Total tangible shareholders' equity/total tangible assets7.9910.009.01

49

Table of Contents

At or For the Years Ended
(Dollars in thousands)December 31, 2022December 31, 2021December 31, 2020
Performance Ratios
GAAP return on assets0.82%0.98%(4.15)%
Adjusted return on assets0.890.700.24
GAAP return on equity7.7610.18(37.46)
Adjusted return on equity8.437.202.14
Adjusted return on tangible common equity8.947.743.18
Efficiency ratio (2)64.3169.9668.53
Supplementary Data (in thousands)
Tax benefit on tax-credit investments$4,880$4,372$4,699
Non-interest income charge on tax-credit investments(3,508)(3,445)(3,645)
Net income on tax-credit investments1,3729281,054
Intangible amortization5,1345,2006,181
Fully taxable equivalent income adjustment6,6446,3446,402

____________________________________

(1)Acquisition, restructuring, conversion, and other related expenses included no merger and acquisition expenses for the years -ended December 31, 2022, 2021 and 2020.

(2)Efficiency ratio is computed by dividing total core tangible non-interest expense by the sum of total net interest income on a fully taxable equivalent basis and total core non-interest income adjusted to include tax credit benefit of tax shelter investments. The Company uses this non-GAAP measure to provide important information regarding its operational efficiency.

GENERAL

This discussion is intended to assist readers in understanding the financial condition and results of operations of Berkshire Hills Bancorp, Inc. (“Berkshire” or the “Company"), the changes in key items in the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements (“financial statements”) from year to year, and the primary reasons for those changes.

The objectives of this section are:

•To provide a narrative explanation of the Company’s financial statements that enables investors to see the company through the eyes of management;

•To enhance the financial disclosure and provide the context within which financial information should be analyzed; and

•To provide information about the quality of, and potential future variability of, the Company’s earnings and cash flow.

This discussion includes the following sections:

•Summary

•Comparison of Financial Condition at December 31, 2022 and 2021

•Comparison of Operating Results for the Years Ended December 31, 2022 and 2021

•Liquidity and Cash Flows

•Capital Resources

•Application of Critical Accounting Policies

•Enterprise Risk Management

•LIBOR Transition

•Environmental, Social, Governance (ESG) and Commitment to Social Responsibility

The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the Company’s financial statements and the notes thereto appearing in Item 8 of this document. In the following discussion, income statement comparisons are against the previous year and balance sheet comparisons are against the previous fiscal year-end, unless otherwise noted. Operating results discussed herein are not necessarily indicative of the results for the year 2023 or any future period. In management’s discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations, certain

50

Table of Contents

reclassifications have been made to make prior periods comparable. Tax-equivalent adjustments are the result of increasing income from tax-advantaged loans and securities by an amount equal to the taxes that would be paid if the income were fully taxable based on a 27% marginal rate (including state income taxes net of federal benefit). In the discussion, unless otherwise specified, references to earnings per share and "EPS" refer to diluted earnings per common share.

Berkshire is a Delaware corporation headquartered in Boston and the holding company for Berkshire Bank (“the Bank”) Established in 1846, the Bank operates as a commercial bank under a Massachusetts trust company charter.

SUMMARY

The Company’s vision is to be a high performing, leading socially responsible community bank in New England and beyond. It offers a wide range of banking, investment, and financial services through its lines of business that include Commercial Banking, Retail Banking, Consumer Lending, Wealth Management, Private Banking, and its 44 Business Capital national SBA lending division. Berkshire’s vision is to empower the financial potential of its stakeholders by making banking available where, when, and how it's needed through a committed focus on exceptional customer service, digital banking, and positive community impact.

Berkshire is committed to unleashing the financial potential of all its stakeholders by leveraging its more than 175 years of expertise, leading performance on environmental, social and governance (ESG) matters and best-in-class fintech partnerships. Its differentiated DigiTouchSM approach, a powerful combination of personal service, including its MyBanker program, fused with the convenience of user-centric technology, targets high customer satisfaction and a frictionless experience.

Berkshire continued to drive forward its performance and make meaningful progress towards its Berkshire’s Exciting Strategic Transformation (BEST) goals in 2022. The Company increased its operating profitability during the year. Fourth quarter revenue and earnings per share reached a fourth quarter record. Due to $52 million in gains recorded on the sale of operations in the third quarter of 2021, total full year net profit decreased year-over-year by 22% to $93 million ($2.02 per share) in 2022 from $119 million ($2.39 per share) in 2021.

The Company uses the non-GAAP measure of adjusted earnings to assess its performance. This measure excludes items not viewed as related to ongoing operations. These items were presented and reconciled to GAAP measures in a previous section of this Item 7. The major exclusions were sale gains in 2021 and branch consolidation costs in both years. Adjusted earnings increased year-over-year by 20% to $101 million in 2022 from $84 million in 2021. Adjusted earnings per share increased by 30% to $2.19 from $1.69 and also reflected the benefit of share repurchases during both years.

The improvement in operating earnings was driven by positive operating leverage resulting from an 18% increase in net interest income and disciplined expense management. Net interest income benefited from the increase in interest rates and from 22% loan growth in the environment of favorable credit conditions during the year. Loan growth exceeded 10% in most major loan categories. Approximately 55% of total loan growth was recorded in residential mortgages, as the Company reinvested excess liquidity into higher yielding loans in conjunction with the expansion of the residential mortgage function serving the Company’s markets.

At year-end 2022, the Company arrived at the midpoint of its three year BEST strategic transformation plan. Fourth quarter 2022 results achieved the objective of moving into the target range of the plan for several key measures. A summary of the Company’s progress against these key targets is shown below.

51

Table of Contents

The Company’s BEST plan includes a focus on improving Berkshire’s capital structure. In June 2022, the Company issued a $100 million Sustainability Bond, a subordinated debt issuance which replaced at a lower rate of interest a $75 million bond which was called and repaid. The Company intends to use an amount equal to the net proceeds to finance or refinance new or existing social and environmental projects consistent with its Sustainable Financing Framework, which was established at midyear. In conjunction with this issuance, the Company received an inaugural investment grade long-term issuer rating of "Baa3", with a Positive rating outlook, from Moody’s Investors Service.

During 2022, the Company repurchased $125 million of common stock, representing 9% of shares outstanding at the start of the year. After year-end 2022, the Company announced a $50 million share repurchase program for 2023, representing approximately 4% of year-end 2022 outstanding shares. During the fourth quarter of 2022, the Company increased its quarterly common shareholder dividend by 50% to $0.18 per share from $0.12 per share. Total shareholder distributions from dividends and stock repurchases equaled $149 million in 2022, or 16% of year-end 2021 total equity. The Company remains strongly capitalized, with a 12.4% Common Equity Tier 1 Capital ratio at year-end 2022.

The improving credit environment in 2022 was reflected in the reduction in the ratio of the allowance for expected credit losses on loans to total loans; this ratio decreased to 1.15% at year-end 2022 from 1.55% at year-end 2021. This included the release of reserves related to the pandemic as expected elevated losses did not emerge due in part to the ongoing benefit from federal economic support measures. Net loan charge-offs measured 0.27% of average loans in 2022, compared to 0.29% in 2021. The ratio of total delinquent and nonaccrual loans measured a ten year low of 0.60% of loans at year-end 2022.

Inflation remained historically high throughout 2022, leading the Federal Reserve Bank to initiate a series of interest rate increases during the year, along with taking steps towards quantitative tightening. The three month U.S. Treasury rate increased by 436 basis points to 4.42% from 0.06% during the year. The increases were concentrated in the third quarter, with the target Federal Funds rate increasing by 300 basis points from mid-June to the beginning of November. The ten year Treasury rate increased during the year by 236 basis points to 3.88% from 1.52%. The

52

Table of Contents

Company’s interest rate sensitivity at the start of the year was modeled to be positively sensitive to increases in interest rates, which contributed to the growth in net interest income during the year.

The risk of recession has increased due to ongoing inflation, the higher interest rate environment, and the gradual reduction of excess liquidity in the economy. The Company views its markets as comparatively less sensitive to national trends in the economy and is pursuing strategies to continue to grow and improve operating profitability. The Company plans to roll out its new digital and mobile banking services in 2023. Its goal is that its DigiTouchSM customer engagement strategy and corporate responsibility profile will allow it to differentiate and grow profitably and responsibly in the anticipated environment where deposit costs and competition may further pressure funding costs. Optimization of digital platforms and reductions of excess premises are targeted to contribute additional efficiencies.

In October 2022, Chief Financial Officer Subhadeep Basu resigned, and Chief Accounting Officer Brett Brbovic was named Interim Chief Financial Officer. In January 2023, the Company named David Rosato as Senior Executive Vice President/Chief Financial Officer, effective February 6, 2023. Mr. Rosato was most recently Chief Financial Officer of Peoples United Financial, Inc., which was acquired by M&T Bank Corporation in 2022. Also in January 2023, the Company named James Brown as Senior Executive Vice President/Head of Commercial Banking and Philip Jurgeleit as Executive Vice President/Chief Credit Officer, filling vacancies in these positions resulting from retirements in the second half of 2022. Messrs. Brown and Jurgeleit have decades of related experience in the Company’s markets, including Boston Private Bank and Trust Company for Mr. Brown and Santander Bank for Mr. Jurgeleit.

Berkshire remains positively positioned to continue forward with its BEST program financial objectives while also enhancing its social and environmental performance. The Company was named one of America’s Most Trustworthy Companies by Newsweek, listed in the Bloomberg Gender Equality Index, named a Best Place to Work for LGBTQIA+ equality by the Human Rights Campaign and honored as the Sustainable Business of the Year in the bank category by the Sustainable Business Network of Massachusetts. Additionally, Berkshire accelerated further ahead of its BEST ESG performance goal, moving into an aggregated 17th percentile performance in an index of leading ESG ratings and ranked in the top 1% of U.S. banks in Bloomberg throughout the year. The Company continues to differentiate itself through its high performance on ESG matters and commitment to its communities.

COMPARISON OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AT DECEMBER 31, 2022 AND DECEMBER 31, 2021

Summary: Total assets were little changed in 2022, measuring $11.7 billion at year-end. Excess liquidity was reinvested into loan growth. A $0.9 billion decrease in cash and equivalents and a $0.5 billion decrease in investment securities were mostly offset by a $1.5 billion increase in loans. Total deposits increased by $0.3 billion, and the ratio of loans to deposits increased to 81% from 68% during the year. Most measures of asset quality remained strong and improving. Shareholders’ equity decreased by $228 million primarily due to an other comprehensive loss from unrealized bond losses in the environment of rising interest rates. Shareholder distributions in the form of dividends and stock repurchases reflected the Company’s plan to reduce excess capital through loan growth and shareholder distributions. The Common Equity Tier 1 Capital ratio remained strong at 12.4% at year-end. Year-end 2022 book value per share measured $21.51 and the non-GAAP measure of tangible book value per share measured $20.95. These measures were reduced by approximately $3.93 per share as a result of the after-tax unrealized bond loss.

Investments: Short-term investments decreased by $978 million, or 64%, to $540 million, or 5% of period-end assets, as excess liquid funds were reinvested into loans in the rising rate market.

The portfolio of investment securities decreased by $515 million, or 20%, to $2.03 billion, measuring 17% of period-end assets, compared to 22% at the start of the year. The Company allowed net run-off of investment securities to provide funds for loan growth. The net runoff tempered the Company’ exposure to unrealized bond losses in the rising interest rate environment. This helped to offset the impact of a lengthening of securities average lives due to slower prepayments of the mortgage related securities which constitute the bulk of the portfolio. Excluding short-term treasury securities, net monthly run-off from proceeds of maturities, amortization, and prepayments of investment securities was approximately $20 million per month based on conditions at year-end 2022.

53

Table of Contents

The portfolio is high quality, and has an average debt securities life of 6.9 years at period-end, which was increased from 4.6 years at the start of the year due primarily to slowing prepayment speeds of mortgage related instruments resulting from the significant increase in interest rates. The investment portfolio yield was 2.20% in the fourth quarter of 2022, compared to 2.04% in the fourth quarter of 2021. The investment portfolio is viewed as a significant source of liquidity for the Bank, as 93% of the $1.4 billion available for sale bond portfolio consists of Agency mortgage related products and Treasury notes.

The portfolio of available for sale investment securities had an unrealized loss of $238 million, or 14.3% of cost at year-end 2022, compared to an unrealized loss of $4 million, or 0.2% of cost, at year-end 2021, due to the impact of rising interest rates during 2022. The unrealized loss is a component of other comprehensive income but has no impact on bank regulatory capital. If portions of this loss were recognized through sale, this would reduce regulatory capital. The Company monitors the impact of the unrealized loss on the book value of capital and it views its position as within the range of peers in the current environment. Based on year-end 2022 conditions, the unrealized loss is expected to accrete into book value as the bond portfolio seasons through its 6.9 year average life with the expectation that the securities return to a par value at maturity.

Total Loans. Total loans increased by $1.51 billion, or 22%, to $8.34 billion in 2022. Growth was concentrated in residential real estate loans, which increased by $823 million, or 55%, to $2.31 billion. Commercial loans increased by $634 million, or 13%, to $5.52 billion. In addition to improved customer demand and expansion of the Company's lending teams, loan growth in 2022 was impacted by slower prepayment rates due to the rising rate environment during the year.

Berkshire has expanded its residential mortgage lending function to be more in line with its strategic positioning in its markets and in order to reinvest excess liquidity that had accumulated from loan run-off in earlier periods. The majority of originations were produced by an expanded team of in-house mortgage originators. The Company has also been developing third party mortgage channels, including flow originations from correspondents in its markets. This expansion produced high mortgage growth in 2022 despite the market contraction resulting from rising interest rates. Most production shifted towards jumbo 7/1 adjustable-rate mortgages that were held for investment. The Company has also expanded its secondary marketing capabilities with a goal of increasing the volume of conforming mortgages originated for sale in future periods. The Company’s goal is to build customer relationships from this portfolio. The mortgage loan yield decreased to 3.56% in the fourth quarter of 2022, compared to 3.82% in the fourth quarter of 2021, reflecting shifts in the product mix. Due to the lag in application and processing pipelines, the portfolio yield began to increase in the latter part of the year from the flow of higher rate new originations.

Commercial loan growth in 2022 resulted from the expansion of the commercial team, together with solid credit demand and supportive economic and credit conditions. Commercial loans had declined in earlier periods and reached a growth inflection point in the fourth quarter of 2021, with growth in all four quarters of 2022. For the year, major areas of growth were in commercial multifamily loans, non-owner occupied commercial real estate, and asset-based lending commercial and industrial balances. These real estate loans were spread across most of the major categories or property types. The Company measures its commercial real estate loans in accordance with regulatory monitoring guidelines and definitions. Total commercial real estate measured 259% of regulatory capital at year-end 2022 and construction loans measured 26% of regulatory capital.

Through loan selection, the Company shifted commercial real estate loan production towards credits with lower loan-to-value ratios during the year to reduce impacts of potential future recessionary conditions on property valuations. The Company manages commercial real estate loan concentrations within limits by property type. Due to potential shifts in workforce patterns, commercial office loans are subject to heightened monitoring. Excluding construction loans and medical and educational properties, the commercial office portfolio totaled approximately $548 million at year-end 2022, consisting primarily of suburban properties. There were no office property loans delinquent at that date.

Inflation has contributed to an increase in commercial borrowing demand, while the related increase in interest rates has raised borrowing costs, potentially restraining demand. The gathering impact of higher rates is expected to dampen economic conditions, resulting in potentially slower portfolio growth in future periods. Due primarily to commercial loans tied to short term indices, such as LIBOR or Prime, the commercial loan yield increased by 2.06% to 5.78% in the fourth quarter of 2022 from 3.72% in the fourth quarter of 2021. The Company’s

54

Table of Contents

underwriting includes an analysis of sensitivity to higher interest rates for most of its variable rate loans. Many of the larger variable rate commercial loans are backed by interest rate swaps which have the impact of fixing the interest cost to the borrower, thereby reducing the credit risk of higher interest rates.

After midyear, the Company announced that it would cease originating new loans in its Firestone Financial specialty lending; operation and allow the portfolio to run-off. This was a strategic decision in the context of Berkshire’s BEST plan to focus on core markets and products. The Firestone portfolio stood at $133 million at period-end and continues to have strong credit performance in line with its long history.

Consumer loans increased by $53 million, or 12%, to $501 million in 2022. Growth was driven by consumer unsecured loans originated through the Company’s partnership with the fintech Upstart. This portfolio totaled $140 million at period-end, and most of these loans were originated during the first half of the year and were generally subject to the Company’s prime underwriting standards. In July 2022 the Company announced that, due to the prevailing economic uncertainty, it was ceasing new originations through this partnership. Credit performance of this portfolio has exceeded the Company’s expectations. The yield on the consumer portfolio increased to 7.00% in the fourth quarter of 2022 from 3.96% in the fourth quarter of 2021 due to both the higher yield on Upstart loans and the increase in the Prime rate which is the index rate for most home equity loans.

Overall loan yields increased from the fourth quarter of 2021 due mainly to increases in market interest rates, primarily in relation to loans repricing within three months. The Company measures its loan beta, which is the ratio of the change in loan yields to a market index. Compared to the average federal funds target rate, the beta for the total loan portfolio measured 51% comparing the fourth quarter of 2022 to the fourth quarter of 2021. Comparing the most recent quarter to the linked quarter, the loan beta was 42%. The magnitude and consistency of these betas primarily reflects the large volume of loans contractually repricing based on Prime. LIBOR, or SOFR based indices.

At year-end 2022, 45% of total loans were scheduled to mature or reprice within three months. contributing to the modeled asset sensitivity of the Company’s interest rate risk profile at that date. This is down from 50% at year-end 2021.

Asset Quality and Credit Loss Allowance: Most major asset quality metrics remained solid as of year-end 2022, with many metrics at better levels than pre-pandemic. Total delinquent and non-accruing loans measured 0.60% of total loans at year-end, the lowest in more than a decade. Non-accruing loans measured 0.37% of total loans, compared to 0.52% at year-end 2021. Annualized net loan charge-offs measured 0.27% of average loans in 2022, compared to 0.29% in 2021. Charge-offs were concentrated in the second half of the year in one commercial and industrial credit which filed for bankruptcy in the fourth quarter. The $7 million remaining carrying balance of this loan was the largest component of year-end non-accruing commercial and industrial loans. Non-accruing loans declined in other major loan categories.

At period-end, accruing troubled debt restructurings totaled $12 million and accruing loans over 90 days delinquent totaled $7 million. Total criticized loans decreased to 2.3% of loans from 3.5% of loans at the start of the year, including classified loans which decreased to 1.4% of loans from 2.1% of loans. Classified loans include accruing substandard loans, which are regarded as potential problem loans and which declined to 1.1% of loans from 1.6% during the year.

The allowance for credit losses on loans decreased to $96 million at year-end 2022 from $106 million at year-end 2021. The ratio of the allowance to total loans decreased to 1.15% from 1.55%. This decline was primarily due to a reduction in the expected losses from economic and social disruptions related to COVID-19 conditions, as well as the general improvement in asset quality measures. The year-end allowance was based on a baseline economic forecast of ongoing economic growth but included a qualitative assessment of risks related to market and inflation conditions and future possible recession conditions. The allowance covers all current expected credit losses for all loans. In relation to outstanding loans, the allowance for all categories of loans decreased except for consumer loans due to the addition of the Upstart loans. The expected average lives of most categories of loans increased during the year, reflecting the strong portfolio growth and slower expected prepayment speeds.

Deposits and Borrowings: Total deposits increased by $258 million, or 3%, to $10.3 billion during 2022. Excluding the $474 million increase in payroll deposits and the $107 million decrease in brokered deposits, total deposits decreased by $109 million, or 1%, due primarily to a $156 million, or 5%, decrease in non-interest bearing

55

Table of Contents

demand deposit balances. The payroll deposits fluctuate daily, and totaled $1.48 billion at year-end, most of which was in money market deposit balances at year-end.

Deposit activity included the impact of increased customer spending rates as well as market competition from higher yielding investment instruments in the rising interest rate environment. The Company increased its promotions of time and money market accounts tied to demand deposit accounts.

The fourth quarter cost of deposits increased year-over-year by 0.50% to 0.69% by from 0.19%, including a 0.36% increase over the third quarter of 2022. The cost of interest-bearing deposits increased by 0.70% to 0.98% from 0.28% due primarily to a 1.00% increase in the cost of money market deposits to 1.16% in the fourth quarter of 2022 from 0.16% in the fourth quarter of 2021.

The Company measures its deposit beta, which is the ratio of the change in deposit costs to a market index. Compared to the average federal funds target rate, the deposit beta measured 25% for the fourth quarter of 2022 compared to the linked quarter. The deposit beta measured 0.14% for the fourth quarter of 2022 compared to the fourth quarter of 2021, which was the last full quarter before the Federal Reserve Bank began raising interest rates. The Company anticipates that the deposit beta will continue to increase into a possible range of 30-40% by the end of the interest rate cycle, depending in part on shifts in balances from lower cost accounts to higher cost accounts.

The Company’s wholesale funds consist of brokered deposits and borrowings. Wholesale funds decreased by $93 million, or 27%, to $246 million, or 2% of assets, from $340 million, or 3% of assets, in order to reduce the balance of higher cost funds.

On June 30, 2022, Berkshire completed the sale at par of $100 million in subordinated notes bearing interest at a fixed rate of 5.5% for the first five years. The notes will then reset quarterly to a floating rate per annum equal to a benchmark rate which is expected to be the Three-Month Term SOFR, plus 249 basis points. The notes have a ten year final maturity and generally may be called at par after five years. Berkshire is the first public U.S. community bank holding company with under $150 billion in total assets to issue a Sustainability Bond. The Company intends to use an amount equal to the net proceeds of its Sustainability Bond issuance to finance or refinance new or existing social and environmental projects consistent with its Sustainable Financing Framework. Sustainalytics, a Morningstar Company, and the global leader in high-quality ESG research, ratings, and data, has independently verified that Berkshire’s Sustainable Financing Framework "is credible and impactful and in alignment with” International Capital Market Association (ICMA) guidelines and principles.

On September 28, 2022, the Company prepaid the balance of its existing $75 million in subordinated debt bearing interest at 6.875% which became callable for the first time on that date since the original issuance ten years ago.

Derivative Financial Instruments: The notional amount of derivative financial instruments totaled $4.52 billion at year-end 2022, compared to $3.71 billion at year-end 2021. The increase was primarily due to $800 million in interest rate swaps and collars on commercial loans recorded as cash flow hedges in the second half of the year. This was in response to the increased sensitivity to a downward interest rate shock following the rapid rise in market interest rates during the year. The fair value of derivative financial instruments was a liability of $43 million at year-end 2022, compared to an asset of $43 million at year-end 2021, due to the impact of changes in interest rates on the value of outstanding commercial loan interest rate swaps.

Shareholders' Equity: Total shareholders’ equity decreased by $228 million, or 19% to $954 million in 2022. This decrease was primarily due to a $178 million net other comprehensive loss resulting mostly from the previously discussed unrealized loss on debt securities available for sale as a result of the increase in market interest rates. Additionally, the Company repurchased $125 million in common shares in 2022, representing approximately 9% of shares outstanding at year-end 2021.

The unrealized securities losses are not counted against regulatory equity. As a result, the decrease in regulatory capital was more modest and reflected shareholder distributions through stock repurchases and dividends. Including the impact of the loan growth, the Common Equity Tier 1 Capital remained relatively strong, decreasing to 12.4% from 15.0 at the start of the year. Similarly, the risk-based capital ratio remained comparatively strong at 14.6% compared to 17.3% at the start of the year.

56

Table of Contents

Across the banking industry, the unrealized losses on available for sale investment securities have led to significant compression of book value and the non-GAAP financial measure of tangible book value. The Company’s

book value per share decreased by $2.79 to $21.51 and period-end equity/assets decreased from 10.2% to 8.2%. Tangible book value per share decreased by $2.74 to $20.95, and the period-end ratio of tangible common equity/tangible assets decreased from 10.0% to 8.0%. The 2022 comprehensive loss on bonds represented approximately $3.93 per share of the decreases in the above per share book value metrics.

During the first nine months of 2022, the Company continued the quarterly shareholder dividend at $0.12 per share level it was reduced to as a result of the pandemic beginning in the third quarter of 2020. On November 4, 2022, the Company announced that it had increased its quarterly dividend to shareholders by 50% to $0.18 per share. This reflected growth in earnings since the announcement of the BEST strategic transformation plan in May 2021. The $0.18 dividend represented a yield of approximately 2.6% based on Berkshire’s closing share price of $27.44 on November 3, 2022 and was equivalent to a 29% payout compared to third quarter 2022 adjusted earnings.

Total shareholder distributions through stock repurchases and dividends measured $149 million in 2022. In January 2023, the Company announced a new 2023 stock repurchase program totaling $50 million, which was equivalent to approximately 4% of outstanding shares based on the share price at the time of the announcement.

57

Table of Contents

COMPARISON OF OPERATING RESULTS FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2022 AND 2021

Summary: Berkshire reported net income of $93 million, or $2.02 per share in 2022, compared to net income of $119 million, or $2.39 per share in 2021. In 2021, the Company recorded a pre-tax gain of $53 million on the sale of its Mid-Atlantic branch operations and its insurance and other operations. The Company uses the non-GAAP measure of adjusted income to assess its performance, with component measures of adjusted revenue and adjusted expense. These measures exclude items not viewed as related to ongoing operations, including the 2021 sale gains and consolidation expenses in both years.

Adjusted income increased in 2022 by 20% to $101 million compared to $84 million in 2021. This reflected a 9% increase in adjusted revenue and flat adjusted non-interest expense. Adjusted income per share increased by 30% in 2022 to $2.19 from $1.69 in 2021. This reflected the further benefit of stock repurchases in both years.

The 2022 return on equity measured 7.76% and the non-GAAP measure of adjusted return on tangible common equity measured 8.94%. Reflecting the improvement during the year, these measures reached 10.06% and 9.83% respectively in the final quarter of the year. The 2022 return on assets measured 0.82% and the non-GAAP measure of adjusted return on assets measured 0.89%. For the final quarter, these measures increased to 1.08% and 1.00% respectively.

The measure of Pre-tax Pre-provision Net Revenue (“PPNR”) totaled $125 million in 2022, and the non-GAAP measure of adjusted PPNR totaled $136 million. For the final quarter, these measures totaled $48 million and $45 million, respectively.

Revenue: Total net revenue decreased by 5% year-over-year due to the impact of the $53 million in sale gains in 2021. The non-GAAP measure of adjusted revenue excludes these gains and other gains and losses. Adjusted revenue increased by 9% due to an 18% increase in net interest income which was partially offset by a 22% decrease in non-interest income excluding gains and losses. Adjusted revenue comparisons between the two years were impacted by the sale of insurance operations and mid-Atlantic branch operations, which contributed to 2021 operating revenues for nine months before their sale.

Net Interest Income: Net interest income increased year-over-year by $53 million, or 18%. The net interest margin increased by 25%, increasing by 66 basis points to 3.26% from 2.60%. The margin rose to 3.84% in the final quarter of the year. While average earning assets decreased year-over-year by 6%, the Company benefited from the $355 million, or 5% increase in average loans. The increase in the net interest margin reflected both from the benefit of higher interest rates, as well as the reinvestment of funds from short term investments into loans.

Per the early discussion of financial condition, the 2022 cumulative fourth quarter loan beta was 42%, while the deposit beta was 14%. This difference contributed substantially to the net interest income generated as the average target federal funds rate increased by 359 basis points to 3.84% in the fourth quarter of 2022 compared to 0.25% in the fourth quarter of 2021.

The shift from low yielding short-term investments into higher yielding loans also contributed to the increase in net interest income during the year. Additionally, the shift from some investment securities into loans further supported the increase in net interest income.

The Company’s models anticipate that the full cycle deposit beta will be in the 30-40% range. The Company anticipates that the increase in deposit costs may cause a reduction in the net interest margin in future periods based on the interest rate outlook at year-end 2022. The Company’s models indicate that the Company had modest positive interest rate sensitivity at year-end 2022, as discussed in Item 7A on market risk. At year-end 2022, market expectations anticipated further increases in short-term interest rates in 2023.

Non-Interest Income: Total fee income decreased year-over year by $20 million, or 24%. All major categories of fee income decreased except for deposit related fees, which increased by $2 million, or 7%. Insurance fees decreased by $7 million due to the sale of insurance operations in 2021. Loan fees decreased by $13 million, or 38%, primarily due to an $8 million decrease in SBA originations related revenues reflecting changes in the structure of the program and market spreads. Berkshire remained among the top 20 bank originators of SBA 7-A

58

Table of Contents

guaranteed loans in the U.S. Additionally, loan servicing fee revenue decreased by $2 million due to an outsourcing initiative in 2022. Mortgage banking fees decreased by $2 million, or 89%, as most mortgage originations were designated held for investment.

Provision for Credit Losses on Loans: The loan loss provision was an expense of $11 million in 2022 compared to a benefit of $500,000 in 2021. In both years, provision expense benefited from a release of reserves for expected pandemic related credit losses which did not emerge, including the impact of government support measures. The year-over-year increase also reflected the resumption of loan growth in 2022 compared to loan contraction in 2021. The Company has steadily reduced the coverage of its allowance for credit losses on loans based on improvements in asset quality and credit loss expectations. The balance of the allowance for credit losses on loans decreased to $96 million at year-end 2022 compared to $106 million at year-end 2021.

Non-Interest Expense: Comparisons of non-interest expense year-over-year were impacted by the sale of insurance and branch operations at the end of the third quarter of 2021 and the reinvestment in frontline bankers and technology. Comparisons are also affected by consolidation costs recorded in both years, primarily for branch consolidations, along with premises and operations initiatives.

Total non-interest expense increased year-over-year by $3 million, or 1%. Adjusted non-interest expense was flat. Restructuring and other non-operating expenses totaled $9 million in 2022 and $6 million in 2021. The Company consolidated six branch offices in 2022 and 16 branch offices in 2021. Including the 8 branches related to the mid-Atlantic branch operations which were sold, total branches decreased by 30 offices over the last two years to 100 branches at year-end 2022 compared to 130 branches at the beginning of 2021.

Occupancy related expenses decreased year-over-year by $4 million, or 10%. Technology related expenses increased by $2 million, or 5%. Professional expense decreased year-over-year by $4 million, or 24%, due primarily to elevated charges in the first quarter of 2021. Total full-time equivalent staff measured 1,310 positions at period-end, compared to 1,319 positions at the end of 2021.

Reflecting the improved net interest margin and strong expense control, as well as the exit from less efficient operations, the efficiency ratio improved to 64.3% in 2022 from 70.0% in 2021. This ratio improved to 58.3% in the final quarter of the year due to the cumulative impact of improvements during the year.

Income Tax Expense: Income taxes are discussed in a note to the financial statements; this note is important to an understanding of the results of operations.

The Company recorded a 19% effective tax rate in 2022 compared to a 20% effective tax rate in 2021. Including both the federal and state benefits, the 2022 effective tax rate benefited by 4.5% from tax exemptions on investment securities and other tax-advantaged investments. Including both the federal and state benefits, the effective tax rate was also reduced by 3.4% related to the Company’s tax credit investment projects. These projects provided $0.03 per share in net income benefit in 2022 and $0.02 per share in 2021, net of amortization charges recorded to non-interest income. The Company actively pursues tax credit investment projects to provide financial support to community development projects as part of its overall banking services while also generating an appropriate return on the Bank’s investment. In recent years these projects have included historic rehabilitation, low-income housing, new markets and renewable energy generation investments.

Total Comprehensive Income: Total comprehensive income includes net income together with other comprehensive income, which primarily consists of unrealized gains/losses on debt securities available for sale, after tax. Total comprehensive income was a loss of $85 million in 2022 compared to income of $85 million in 2021. The loss in 2022 results from the unrealized bond losses in 2022 due to the rise in interest rates during the year.

59

Table of Contents

LIQUIDITY AND CASH FLOWS

Short-Term Liquidity: In 2022, loan growth was the primary use of cash, which was mainly sourced from short-term investments and investment securities. The ratio of cash and cash equivalents to total assets decreased to 6% from 14% over this period in accordance with the Company’s plan to invest excess liquidity into higher yielding loans. Investment securities and wholesale funding are ongoing potential sources of cash to supplement deposit growth to support targeted loan growth.

At year-end 2022, the Bank had $2.1 billion in total borrowing availability with the FHLBB and the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston. This availability is collateralized with investment securities and loans to the extent utilized.

The Company continues to view itself as having sufficient liquidity with a high quality securities portfolio and well-positioned wholesale funding sources. The relative stability of deposit balances and costs was also viewed as positive in 2022 as an indicator of core funding in the Company’s markets. The ratio of loans to deposits measured 81% at period-end, compared to 68% at the start of the year. A number of metrics are utilized in establishing optimal and minimal liquidity targets and the Company is generally well positioned across these metrics.

In the environment prevailing at the end of 2022, some banks have reported deposit outflows as funds are withdrawn to reinvest in other higher yielding financial instruments, and also as excess pandemic related liquidity from federal support programs is spent down. The rising rate environment potentially constrains industry deposit demand growth. Additionally, the rising rates have contributed to the extension of the investment portfolio average life and the unrealized bond losses are a potential constraint on some options for the use of investments to support overall liquidity. The unrealized losses would affect regulatory capital if they were realized through the sale of the related securities, which could then impact the management of capital. The excess liquidity which has been widespread throughout the financial system during the pandemic may constrain funding sources if system wide liquidity is reduced. The Company is monitoring various scenarios as it continues to pursue organic growth and market share gains in the context of its BEST strategic plan.

The Company maintains a contingency funding plan based on its assessment of the liquidity stress environment. Primary liquidity data is reported on daily, and thirty-day stress analytics are maintained on an updated basis. A one year forward liquidity stress test evaluates stress across a variety of stress scenarios, including severe adverse loan loss scenarios. The Company has defined strategic options which allow it to materially meet funding needs in all stress scenarios.

Long-Term Liquidity: Over the long term, the Company targets to generate organic deposit growth that will fund organic loan growth. Operating earnings are expected to fund routine cash operating costs, shareholder distributions, and capital expenditures. As a depository institution, the Bank maintains a high-quality securities portfolio as a source of liquidity to service unexpected customer demand for loan advances or deposit withdrawals. The Company and Bank have investment grade debt ratings from Moody’s Investors Services and the KBRA bond rating firm. The Company also is active in secondary markets for residential mortgages and SBA guaranteed loans, which support its organic growth without relying on internal liquidity and capital resources. The Company is monitoring for potential shifts in deposit sources as customer usage of traditional banking channels is also impacted by the spread of fintech alternatives. The Company’s strategy is to actively partner with fintechs to pursue a strong position in the evolving financial marketplace, while evolving its own technology to support these partnerships. The Company is also monitoring potential shifts in deposit demand as it is being impacted by higher interest rates and inflation, and potentials impacts of an economic slowdown and lower customer liquidity.

60

Table of Contents

Parent Company Liquidity: Total cash held by the holding company was $90 million at year-end 2022. The Company targets to use cash at the holding company together with dividends from the Bank to fund holding company cash uses including modest operating expenditures, debt service, purchases of investments, shareholder dividends, and stock repurchases. The holding company generally expects to maintain cash on hand equivalent to normal cash uses, including common stock dividends, for at least a one year period. Bank dividends to the holding company presently require approval by the FDIC and the Massachusetts Division of Banks. The holding company’s goal is to maintain access to private and public credit markets to provide access to additional liquidity sources depending on conditions.

CAPITAL RESOURCES

Please see the “Shareholders’ Equity” section of the Comparison of Financial Condition for a discussion of shareholders’ equity together with the note on Shareholders' Equity in the consolidated financial statements.

The Company’s BEST plan includes the optimization of capital, including reducing excess capital through organic growth and capital returns to shareholders. The operation of this plan was evidenced in 2022 by loan growth and shareholder distributions, including a 50% increase in the shareholder dividend in the final quarter of the year. Capital optimization was also supported through the subordinated debt issuance, reducing the coupon compared to the existing debt which was later prepaid. In conjunction with this issuance, the Company received an inaugural investment grade bond rating from Moody’s and executed a landmark Sustainability Bond placement which expands capital market access for socially responsible investments.

The Company views its regulatory capital measures as providing it with an ample cushion of excess capital in relation to its operating condition, risk profile, and strategic plans, and compared to peers. The Company’s priorities for uses of its capital are based on maintaining strong capital, supporting organic growth and its BEST strategic plan, paying a dividend yield that in the long run is competitive and targets a 30-40% payout ratio, and distributing excess capital to shareholders through stock repurchases, with a goal of achieving an efficient level and composition of capital.

The Company repurchased approximately 5% of its shares in 2021 and an additional 9% in 2022. After year-end 2022, the Company announced a 2023 share repurchase program for approximately 4% of its outstanding shares. In large measure, these repurchases represented a return of capital that became excess as a result of the reduction of certain business activities and loans, including targeted runoff of selected portfolios.

The unrealized available for sale securities losses reduce the book value of equity. These losses are expected to accrete back into equity as the securities season to maturity. These losses are not deducted from regulatory capital which is the primary focus of the Company’s capital management. The measure of tangible book value is a focus of bank investors, together with the ratio of tangible equity to tangible assets and the measure of tangible book value per share. The non-GAAP measure of tangible equity to tangible assets decreased to 8.0% from 10.0% during 2022, and tangible book value per share decreased by 12% to $20.95 from $23.69. The Company is monitoring its tangible book value related metrics and it believes that its condition at period-end was within a general range for peers at that date.

The Company’s long-term goal is to maintain an efficient capital structure and to provide a return in excess of the cost of its common equity capital. The Company’s tier 2 capital includes a $100 million subordinated note. The Company maintains a universal shelf registration statement for capital securities with the SEC. The Company and Bank are investment grade rated by Moody's Investors Service and by the KBRA bond rating service. The Company’s stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange and the Company views itself as having good access to current capital markets.

The Company performs capital stress testing at least annually and has a goal to remain qualifying for the “well capitalized” designation in the severely stressed scenario. The Company views its current stressed capital position as sound and conforming to its objectives.

In acting as a source of strength for the Bank, the Company relies on capital distributions from the Bank in order to provide operating and capital service for the Company, which in turn can access national financial markets to provide financial support to the Bank. Capital distributions from the Bank to the parent company presently require approval by the FDIC and the Massachusetts Division of Banking. Increased distributions from the Company to shareholders require notice to and nonobjection from the Federal Reserve Bank. In 2022, the Bank paid $108 million in dividends to the parent company.

61

Table of Contents

APPLICATION OF CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The Company’s significant accounting policies and modifications to significant accounting policies made during the year are described in Note 1 to the financial statements. The preparation of the financial statements is in accordance with GAAP and general practices applicable to the financial services industry. This preparation requires management to make estimates, assumptions, and judgements that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. The judgment and assumptions made are based upon historical experience, future forecasts, or other factors that management believes to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results could differ from those estimates, assumptions, and judgements.

Not all significant accounting policies require management to make difficult, subjective or complex judgments. Certain estimates inherently have a greater reliance on the use of assumptions and judgments and, as such, have a greater possibility of producing results that could be materially different than originally reported. The following significant accounting policies are considered most critical in that they are important to the Company’s financial condition and results, and they require management’s subjective and complex judgment as a result of the need to make estimates about the effects of matters that are inherently uncertain. Both of these most critical accounting policies were significant in determining income and financial condition based on events in 2022.

Allowance for Credit Losses for Loans

The allowance for credit losses for loans (“ACLL”) represents management’s estimate of expected credit losses over the expected contractual life of our loan portfolio. Determining the appropriateness of the ACLL is complex and requires judgment by management about the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain. Subsequent evaluations of the then-existing loan portfolio, in light of the factors then prevailing, may result in significant changes in the ACLL in those future periods.

The appropriateness of the ACLL could change significantly because current economic conditions and forecasts can change and future events are inherently difficult to predict. It is difficult to estimate how potential changes in any one economic factor or input might affect the overall allowance because a wide variety of factors and inputs are considered in estimating the allowance and changes in those factors and inputs considered may not occur at the same rate and may not be consistent across all product types. Additionally, changes in factors and inputs may be directionally inconsistent, such that improvement in one factor may offset deterioration in others. One of the most significant judgments used in determining the allowance for credit losses is the macroeconomic forecast provided by a third party. Changes in the macroeconomic forecast, especially for the national unemployment rate, could significantly impact the calculated estimated credit losses.

While management utilizes its best judgment and information available, the ultimate adequacy of our ACLL is dependent upon a variety of factors beyond our control, including the performance of our portfolios, the economy, and changes in interest rates. For detailed information on the ACLL see Note 1- Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Note 6 – Loans and Allowance for Credit Losses.

Fair Value Measurements

The Company uses fair value measurements to determine fair value disclosures and to record fair value adjustments to certain assets and liabilities, such as interest rate swaps, impaired loans, securities available for sale, and derivatives. Our fair values are based on the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. Additionally, from time to time, the Company may be required to record certain assets at fair value on a non-recurring basis, such as certain impaired loans held for investment and capitalized servicing rights. These non-recurring fair value adjustments typically involve write-downs of individual assets due to application of lower-of-cost or market accounting or other accounting standards.

Management has established and documented a process for determining fair value. The use of observable inputs is maximized and the use of unobservable inputs is minimized when developing fair value measurements. Whenever there is no readily available market data, management uses its best estimate and assumptions in determining fair value, but these estimates involve inherent uncertainties and the application of management’s judgment. As a result, if other assumptions had been used, our recorded earnings or disclosures could have been materially different from those reflected in these financial statements. For detailed information on our use of fair value measurements and our

62

Table of Contents

related valuation methodologies, see Note 1 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Note 21 – Fair Value Measurements for more information.

63

Table of Contents

ENTERPRISE RISK MANAGEMENT

Other sections of this report on Form 10-K include discussion of market risk and risk factors. Risk management is overseen by the Company’s Chief Risk Officer, who reports directly to the CEO. This position oversees risk management policy, credit, compliance, and information security. Enterprise risk assessments are brought to the Company’s Enterprise Risk Management Committee, and then are reported to the Board’s Risk Management, Capital & Compliance Committee.

The Company includes recessionary/inflationary risk overlays on all of the material business risks to capture the uncertainties of the economic environment. The Company has also developed recession toolkits and playbooks that outline mitigating factors and actions that strive to minimize losses under such scenarios. Both of these items are addressed throughout the assessments and dashboards provided to the above Committees.

The high level corporate risk assessment focuses on the following material business risks: credit risk, interest rate risk, price risk, liquidity risk, operational risk, compliance risk, strategic risk, and reputation risk, with the credit risk category having the highest weighting. For all material business risks, residual risk was viewed as medium/low to medium due to mitigating controls functioning in the Company. In 2022, price risk increased in relation to the corporate appetite due to the impact of higher interest rates on the behavior and value of various interest sensitive instruments and operations. Residual price risk was viewed as medium including the impact of mitigating factors and management actions in the risk management environment.

LIBOR TRANSITION

The Company’s use of LIBOR based instruments and the industry-wide transition program away from LIBOR are discussed in Item 1 (“Business”) and Item 1-A (“Risk Factors”) of this report. The Company has in excess of $5 billion in notional balances of LIBOR based instruments related primarily to its commercial banking operations. These include loans index on LIBOR, as well as interest rate swap contracts including customer, dealer, and risk participation agreements.

The Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) presently intends to continue publishing most LIBOR indices through June 2023 for use with legacy instruments contracted in 2021 or before. The Company continues to execute plans to transition instruments associated with LIBOR to alternative reference rates. The Company has approved the use of Term SOFR as the lead base case index to replace LIBOR for pricing of new contracts starting in 2022, with Daily Simple SOFR as an alternate. The Company continues to monitor market adoption of alternate index rates as information becomes available or as requested by customers or other counterparties.

As of December 31, 2022, the Company had approximately $1.9 billion in LIBOR based commercial loans, including $1.8 billion maturing after the LIBOR cessation date at midyear 2023. The Company is focused on converting the majority of these loans to one month term SOFR, working with customers, counsel, and its core loan servicing provider. The Company had converted $333 million in outstanding loans through year-end 2022.

ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL, GOVERNANCE (ESG) & COMMITMENT TO SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

BERKSHIRE’S APPROACH

Since its founding in 1846, Berkshire continues to be a purpose-driven, values-guided, community-centered bank working to achieve its vision of becoming a high-performing leading socially responsible community bank. Berkshire empowers the financial potential of its stakeholders by making banking available where, when, and how it's needed through an uncompromising focus on exceptional customer service, digital banking, and positive community impact. It provides a wide range of accessible, affordable, safe, responsible and sustainable financial solutions through its consumer banking, commercial banking and wealth management divisions.

Berkshire believes where you bank matters, and that simple decision can have an outsized impact on your community. That’s why ESG factors are central to the company’s vision, mission, business practices, and Berkshire’s Exciting Strategic Transformation (BEST). This better approach to banking with ESG at its core helps manage risk and unlock new business opportunities to create an ecosystem of positive impact and value, which in turn drives Berkshire’s commercial performance, creating capacity to invest more in its business, employees, customers, shareholders and communities.

64

Table of Contents

BEST COMMUNITY COMEBACK

Berkshire launched the BEST Community Comeback in late 2021, a transformational commitment to empower its stakeholders’ financial potential. The plan focuses on four areas critical to the long-term vibrancy and success of its communities: fueling small businesses; community financing and philanthropy; financial access and empowerment; and funding environmental sustainability. Through this far-reaching initiative, Berkshire aims to help create more businesses and jobs, help more families achieve the dream of owning a home, and aid communities in becoming more environmentally efficient and eco-friendly. Berkshire has made steady progress towards achieving its goal of deploying $5 billion to support its communities by the end of 2024. As of year-end, Berkshire has deployed more than $1 billion in low-moderate income neighborhoods, over $300 million to support low-carbon projects and has transitioned its own electricity supply to 99% renewable since launching the program.

CENTER FOR WOMEN, WELLNESS & WEALTH

Berkshire launched the Center for Women, Wellness, and Wealth (CWWW) to provide women with tools to help create a future enriched with financial stability and wellness. The Center, through partnerships with community organizations, specialized experts and thought leaders, offers events on wellness and financial planning, philanthropic coaching and development support, and complimentary portfolio reviews through Berkshire Bank Wealth Management. Ultimately the Center is working to strengthen women’s financial lives by empowering active participation in financial decision making and addressing the longevity risk that women face through a transformative approach to wealth management which centers on balance, stability, growth and overall wellness.

SUSTAINABLE FINANCE & IMPACT INVESTMENTS

Berkshire became the first public U.S. community bank holding company with under $150 billion in assets to issue a Sustainability Bond with a $100 million issuance in 2022. The Company intends to use an amount equal to the net proceeds to finance or refinance new or existing social and environmental projects consistent with its Sustainable Financing Framework including renewable electricity generation; green buildings; renewable energy technology, storage and manufacturing; energy efficiency in commercial, residential and public buildings; affordable housing; workforce housing; and financial inclusion and access activities. The framework was independently verified by Sustainalytics, a Morningstar Company, for its impact and alignment with the International Capital Market Association's (ICMA) Sustainability Bond Guidelines 2021, Green Bond Principles 2021 and Social Bond Principles 2021. Berkshire intends to publish a report in 2023 describing the amount of net proceeds allocated to each eligible project category, descriptions of specific projects financed, unallocated balances and, where feasible, qualitative and quantitative measures of the expected environmental or social impact.

Beyond the issuance of its sustainability bond, Berkshire looks for innovative ways to advance its ESG positioning and its strategic business priorities through sustainable finance and impact investing. As a result, Berkshire makes targeted impact investments in Small Business Investment Companies (SBIC) and other strategically aligned assets that are within risk appetite and drive a competitive rate of return. The Company also has a strong tax-credit business whereby it makes targeted investments in low-income housing tax credits (LIHTC), historic tax credits (HTC) and solar tax credits to further Berkshire’s ESG goals and strengthen its Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) performance. These investments help bring to life important economic development, revitalization and renewable energy projects while providing an appropriate return to the bank consistent with its capital and tax strategies.

ESG INTEGRATION, OVERSIGHT & REPORTING

ESG factors are integral to Berkshire’s business practices, risk management program, competitive positioning and its ability to deliver on its Berkshire’s Exciting Strategic Transformation (BEST) program and realize its vision of becoming a high-performing, leading socially responsible community bank. Berkshire was one of the first banks in the country to establish a dedicated committee of its Board of Directors to oversee ESG matters and are a leader among community banks in integrating ESG standards into its business strategy and operations.

The Company maintains a strong foundation of governance systems, including:

•Board level oversight of ESG, Sustainability, Climate Change, Diversity and Culture

•Corporate Responsibility & Culture Committee of its Board of Directors

•Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Committee

65

Table of Contents

•Diversity Equity & Inclusion Committee

•Responsible & Sustainable Business Policy

•Lending, credit, deposit and investment policies which incorporate ESG exclusions and due diligence requirements

•Senior managers for ESG and Diversity along with active involvement from business unit leaders and front lines in managing ESG externalities and risks

This approach strengthens risk management practices consistent with the company’s enterprise risk management program and allows Berkshire to capitalize on business opportunities consistent with its strategy.

Berkshire regularly engages directly with its stakeholders to share information about the progress it’s made in its ESG performance, including through its Corporate Responsibility website, corporate annual report, and proxy statement. Additionally, Berkshire’s annual Corporate Responsibility/ESG Report, which is aligned with Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (“SASB”) and Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosure (TCFD) disclosure standards, details the Company's ESG efforts and programs.

CLIMATE CHANGE

Climate Change manifesting in the form of both physical or transition risks could adversely, either directly or indirectly, affect Berkshire’s operations, businesses, customers, communities, and its stakeholders. As the transition to a low-carbon economy accelerates, new policy emerges, and market dynamics shift, Berkshire expects that its efforts to manage its environmental footprint, mitigate the risks associated with climate change, and support the transition will allow it to strengthen its positioning as a high performing, leading socially responsible community bank. The Company continues to evolve its practices to reflect its community bank mission as well as the size, scope, and complexity of its operations.

Berkshire is actively managing climate related risks and opportunities at the board, management and employee levels. The Company’s Board of Directors Corporate Responsibility & Culture Committee provides oversight on sustainability and climate change. Management and the board evaluate climate related risks and opportunities and incorporate the results of risk assessments and discussions into strategic planning, product development, programming and relevant risk mitigating measures. All business risks are also integrated into our Enterprise Risk Management program and discussed by other applicable Board Committees including the Risk Management, Capital & Compliance Committee. Both Committees report into the full board. Beyond board level oversight of climate matters, Berkshire maintains an Environmental, Social and Governance committee comprised of senior executives throughout the Company. Berkshire also completes an annual climate change risk assessment to evaluate the bank’s operations and lending activities for potential exposure to transition and physical risks.

The results of the risk assessment guide Berkshire’s forward climate management and environmental sustainability strategies to ensure its actively managing the risks and opportunities. The physical risks of climate change over short, medium and long-term horizons include weather-related events, such as flooding and tornados, and longer-term shifts in climate patterns, such as extreme heat, rising sea levels and more severe droughts. Such events could disrupt Berkshire’s operations, impact customers, or third parties on which Berkshire relies, including through direct damage to physical assets and indirect impacts from supply chain disruption and market volatility. This could impact borrowers’ ability to repay obligations, devalue physical assets resulting in uncertain residual values and affect third-parties ability to deliver on service expectations.

Transition risks over short, medium and long-term horizons can include changes in consumer preferences, additional regulatory requirements or policy such as taxes, and use of new technologies. Such developments could increase Berkshire, its customers and third-parties operating costs, reduce demand for services from select customer segments and impact current strategies. Reputation and customer relationships could be damaged as a result of Berkshire’s practices related to climate change mitigation as well as through its or its customers direct or indirect involvement with industries or projects with heighten climate related risks. Over the long-term, transition risks could also manifest in potential credit impacts affecting borrowers’ ability to repay obligations. Collectively these physical and transition risks are managed through ongoing monitoring, existing industry exclusions, due diligence processes, policies, insurance requirements, business continuity planning, target setting and product development.

66

Table of Contents

As Berkshire looks to further strengthen its management of climate related risks and opportunities, it expects to continue to formalize its climate risk management program and set formal targets to reduce its Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions, in addition to its existing sustainable finance and renewable electricity goals. As the Company moves further along in its climate journey, it expects to continue to enhance its disclosures, programs, mitigating controls and initiatives to minimize risk, reduce its emissions as well as capitalize on the many business opportunities arising from the transition to a lower-carbon economy. Further details on Berkshire’s Climate Change governance, risk management, strategy, metrics & targets and next steps can be found in its most recent Corporate Responsibility Report.

67

Table of Contents

RATINGS, AWARDS & RECOGNITION

We’re proud to be recognized for our performance with local, regional, national, and international awards as well as leading third party ESG ratings* including:

•Top 17% aggregated ESG rating, achieving one of five major BEST goals

•MSCI ESG- A

•ISS ESG Quality Score - Environment: 3, Social: 1, Governance: 2

•Bloomberg ESG Disclosure- 62.81

•Sustainalytics Rated

•Communitas Award for Leadership in Corporate Social Responsibility

•Sustainable Business Network of Massachusetts Sustainable Business of the Year – Bank

•Boston Business Journal Top Charitable Contributor

•America’s Most Trustworthy Companies – Newsweek

•Forbes America’s Best Midsize Employers

•Bloomberg Gender-Equality Index

•Human Rights Campaign Corporate Equality Index Best Place to Work for LGBTQ+ equality- 100% Score

*As of December 31, 2022

68

Table of Contents

FY 2021 10-K MD&A

SEC filing source: 0001108134-22-000004.

Extracted structurally from real Item 7 body heading to real Item 7A/8 boundary. Confidence: high. Filing date: 2022-03-01. Report date: 2021-12-31.

ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

The following summary data is based in part on the Consolidated Financial Statements and accompanying notes, and other schedules appearing elsewhere in this Form 10-K. Historical data is also based in part on, and should be read in conjunction with, prior filings with the SEC.

At or For the Years Ended December 31,
(In thousands, except per share data)20212020201920182017
Per Common Share Data:
Net earnings/(loss), diluted - continuing operations$2.39$(10.21)$2.05$2.36$1.24
Net (loss)/earnings, diluted - discontinued operations(0.39)(0.08)(0.07)0.15
Net earnings/(loss), diluted$2.39$(10.60)$1.97$2.29$1.39
Total book value per common share24.3023.3734.6533.3032.14
Dividends0.480.720.920.880.84
Common stock price:
High29.1633.0433.7244.2540.00
Low16.358.5526.0225.7732.85
Close28.4317.1232.8826.9736.60
Performance Ratios: (1)
Return on assets0.98%(4.15)%0.75%0.90%0.56%
Return on equity10.18(37.50)5.756.844.45
Return on tangible common equity10.80(48.60)9.3611.417.29
Net interest margin, fully taxable equivalent (FTE) (2)2.602.723.173.403.40
Fee income/Net interest and fee income22.4918.1023.8623.3629.41
Growth Ratios:
Total commercial loans(12.09)%(4.58)%9.19%6.17%37.79%
Total loans(15.54)(14.95)5.088.9626.71
Total deposits(1.44)(1.16)15.072.6632.13
Total net revenues, (compared to prior year)13.40(14.73)4.5311.5941.05
Earnings per share, (compared to prior year)122.55(638.07)(13.97)64.75(26.06)
Selected Financial Data:
Total assets$11,554,913$12,838,013$13,215,970$12,212,231$11,570,751
Total earning assets10,899,10912,089,93911,916,00711,140,30710,509,163
Securities2,548,6952,223,4171,769,8781,918,6041,898,564
Total loans6,825,8478,081,5199,502,4289,043,2538,299,338
Allowance for credit losses(106,094)(127,302)(63,575)(61,469)(51,834)
Total intangible assets29,61934,819599,377551,743557,583
Total deposits10,068,95310,215,80810,335,9778,982,3818,749,530
Total borrowings110,844571,637827,5501,517,8161,137,075
Total shareholders’ equity1,182,4351,187,7731,758,5641,552,9181,496,264

40

Table of Contents

At or For the Years Ended December 31,
20212020201920182017
Selected Operating Data:
Total interest and dividend income$329,065$409,782$509,513$465,894$355,076
Total interest expense37,89993,000144,255109,69464,113
Net interest income291,166316,782365,258356,200290,963
Fee income84,46269,99076,82474,02671,356
All other non-interest income/(loss)58,786(3,683)7,1782982,888
Total net revenue434,414383,089449,260430,524365,207
Provision for credit losses(500)75,87835,41925,45121,025
Total non-interest expense285,893840,239289,857266,893252,978
Income/(loss) from continuing operations before income taxes149,021(533,028)123,984138,18091,204
Income tax expense/(benefit) from continuing operations30,357(19,853)22,46328,96142,088
Net income/(loss) from continuing operations118,664(513,175)101,521109,21949,116
(Loss)/income from discontinued operations before income taxes(26,855)(5,539)(4,767)8,545
Income tax (benefit)/expense from discontinued operations(7,013)(1,468)(1,313)2,414
Net (loss)/income from discontinued operations(19,842)(4,071)(3,454)6,131
Net income/(loss)$118,664$(533,017)$97,450$105,765$55,247
Basic earnings/(loss) per common share:
Continuing operations$2.41$(10.21)$2.06$2.38$1.24
Discontinued operations(0.39)(0.08)(0.08)0.16
Total basic earnings/(loss) per share$2.41$(10.60)$1.98$2.30$1.40
Diluted earnings/(loss) per common share:
Continuing operations$2.39$(10.21)$2.05$2.36$1.24
Discontinued operations(0.39)(0.08)(0.07)0.15
Total diluted earnings/(loss) per share$2.39$(10.60)$1.97$2.29$1.39
Weighted average common shares outstanding - basic49,24050,27049,26346,02439,456
Weighted average common shares outstanding - diluted49,55450,27049,42146,23139,695
Dividends per preferred share$$1.20$1.84$1.76$0.42
Dividends per common share$0.48$0.72$0.92$0.88$0.84
Asset Quality and Condition Ratios: (3)
Net loans charged-off/average loans0.29%0.41%0.35%0.18%0.19%
Allowance for credit losses/total loans1.551.580.670.680.62
Loans/deposits68799210195
Capital Ratios:
Tier 1 capital to average assets - Company10.49%9.38%9.33%9.04%9.01%
Total capital to risk-weighted assets - Company17.3216.1013.7312.9912.43
Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets - Company15.3014.0612.3011.5711.15
Shareholders’ equity/total assets10.239.2513.3112.7312.93

41

Table of Contents

___________________________________

(1)  All performance ratios are annualized and are based on average balance sheet amounts, where applicable.

(2) Fully taxable equivalent considers the impact of tax advantaged investment securities and loans.

(3)  For periods prior to 2020, generally accepted accounting principles require that loans acquired in a business combination be recorded at fair value, whereas loans from business activities are recorded at cost. The fair value of loans acquired in a business combination includes expected loan losses, and there is no loan loss allowance recorded for these loans at the time of acquisition. Accordingly, the ratio of the loan loss allowance to total loans is reduced as a result of the existence of such loans, and this measure is not directly comparable to prior periods. Similarly, net loan charge-offs are normally reduced for loans acquired in a business combination since these loans are recorded net of expected loan losses. Therefore, the ratio of net loan charge-offs to average loans is reduced as a result of the existence of such loans, and this measure is not directly comparable to prior periods. Other institutions may have loans acquired in a business combination, and therefore there may be no direct comparability of these ratios between and among other institutions.

42

Table of Contents

Average Balances, Interest and Average Yields/Cost

The following table presents an analysis of average rates and yields on a fully taxable equivalent basis for the years presented. Tax exempt interest revenue is shown on a tax-equivalent basis for proper comparison.

Item 7 - Table 3 - Average Balance, Interest and Average Yields / Costs

202120202019
(Dollars in millions)Average BalanceInterestAverage Yield/ RateAverage BalanceInterestAverage Yield/ RateAverage BalanceInterestAverage Yield/ Rate
Assets
Loans: (1)(2)
Commercial real estate$3,600.2$124.43.46%$3,958.6$151.53.83%$3,789.5$188.64.98%
Commercial and industrial loans1,527.671.84.702,049.487.74.281,983.9111.25.60
Residential loans1,560.458.43.752,324.387.83.782,719.8100.73.70
Consumer loans569.122.03.87828.131.33.781,038.446.54.48
Total loans7,257.3276.63.819,160.4358.33.919,531.6447.04.69
Investment securities (2)(3)2,283.649.42.161,845.254.62.961,846.962.63.39
Short-term investments and loans held for sale (4)1,619.42.30.58767.24.40.64335.313.44.01
Mid-Atlantic region loans held for sale179.57.13.9725.20.41.07
Total interest-earning assets11,339.8335.42.6011,798.0417.73.5511,713.8523.04.47
Intangible assets32.0316.1578.1
Other non-interest earning assets (4)684.1747.1669.1
Total assets$12,055.9$12,861.2$12,961.0
Liabilities and shareholders' equity
Deposits:
NOW and other$1,340.2$1.00.07%$1,216.6$3.50.29%$1,053.9$6.50.62%
Money market2,749.75.30.192,713.615.30.562,542.631.41.23
Savings1,067.70.50.05914.10.90.10798.21.20.15
Certificates of deposit1,978.918.60.943,102.952.51.693,754.276.12.03
Total interest-bearing deposits7,136.525.40.367,947.272.20.918,148.9115.21.41
Borrowings and notes (5)320.210.73.34841.620.72.461,115.532.42.91
Mid-Atlantic region interest-bearing deposits335.11.80.5445.00.10.80
Total interest-bearing liabilities7,791.837.90.498,833.893.01.069,264.4147.61.59
Non-interest-bearing demand deposits2,817.42,324.61,745.2
Other non-interest-bearing liabilities (4)280.9281.4257.1
Total liabilities10,890.111,439.811,266.7
Total shareholders' equity1,165.81,421.41,694.3
Total liabilities and equity$12,055.9$12,861.2$12,961.0
Net interest income$297.5$324.7$375.4

43

Table of Contents

202120202019
(Dollars in millions)Average BalanceInterestAverage Yield/ RateAverage BalanceInterestAverage Yield/ RateAverage BalanceInterestAverage Yield/ Rate
Net interest spread2.12%2.49%2.88%
Net interest margin (6)2.602.723.17
Cost of funds0.350.841.34
Cost of deposits0.260.711.16
Interest-earning assets/interest-bearing liabilities149.67133.95126.44
Supplementary data
Total non-maturity deposits$7,975.0$7,168.9$6,139.9
Total deposits9,954.010,271.89,894.1
Fully taxable equivalent adjustment6.36.47.5

____________________________________

Notes:

(1) The average balances of loans include nonaccrual loans, and deferred fees and costs. As of December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, deferred fees related to PPP loans totaled $0.2 million and 12.3 million, respectively.

(2) The yield on tax-exempt loans and securities is computed on a fully tax-equivalent basis using a tax rate of 27%.

(3) The average balance of investment securities is based on amortized cost.

(4) Includes discontinued operations.

(5) The average balances of borrowings and notes include the capital lease obligation presented under other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet.

(6) Purchase accounting accretion totaled $6.7 million, $9.9 million, and $14.5 million for the years-ended December 31, 2021, 2020, and 2019, respectively. The effect of purchase accounting accretion on the net interest margin was an increase in all years, which is shown sequentially as follows beginning with the most recent year and ending with the earliest year: 0.09%, 0.12%, and 0.22%.

44

Table of Contents

Rate/Volume Analysis

The following table presents the effects of rate and volume changes on the fully taxable equivalent net interest income. Tax exempt interest revenue is shown on a tax-equivalent basis for proper comparison. For each category of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities, information is provided with respect to changes attributable to (1) changes in rate (change in rate multiplied by prior year volume), (2) changes in volume (change in volume multiplied by prior year rate), and (3) changes in volume/rate (change in rate multiplied by change in volume) have been allocated proportionately based on the absolute value of the change due to the rate and the change due to volume. There are no out-of-period adjustments included in the rate/volume analysis in the following table.

Item 7 - Table 4 - Rate Volume Analysis

2021 Compared with 20202020 Compared with 2019
(Decrease) Increase Due to(Decrease) Increase Due to
(In thousands)RateVolumeNetRateVolumeNet
Interest income:
Commercial real estate$(14,027)$(13,071)$(27,098)$(45,193)$8,096$(37,097)
Commercial and industrial loans7,962(23,913)(15,951)(27,008)3,561(23,447)
Residential loans(762)(28,622)(29,384)2,017(14,907)(12,890)
Consumer loans704(10,014)(9,310)(6,575)(8,592)(15,167)
Total loans(6,123)(75,620)(81,743)(76,759)(11,842)(88,601)
Investment securities(16,598)11,341(5,257)(7,945)(57)(8,002)
Short-term investments and loans held for sale (1)(5,508)2,980(2,528)(16,924)8,297(8,627)
Mid-Atlantic region loans held for sale(1,480)8,600$7,120
Total interest income$(29,709)$(52,699)$(82,408)$(101,628)$(3,602)$(105,230)
Interest expense:
NOW accounts$(2,832)$327$(2,505)$(3,835)$882$(2,953)
Money market accounts(10,259)201(10,058)(18,043)1,985(16,058)
Savings accounts(536)137(399)(409)156(253)
Certificates of deposit(18,740)(15,233)(33,973)(11,486)(12,093)(23,579)
Total deposits(32,367)(14,568)(46,935)(33,773)(9,070)(42,843)
Borrowings5,691(15,702)(10,011)(4,553)(7,206)(11,759)
Mid-Atlantic region interest-bearing deposits8141,005$1,819
Total interest expense$(26,676)$(30,270)$(55,127)$(38,326)$(16,276)$(54,602)
Change in net interest income$(3,033)$(22,429)$(27,281)$(63,302)$12,674$(50,628)

(1) Includes discontinued operations.

45

Table of Contents

NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES

This document contains certain non-GAAP financial measures in addition to results presented in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“GAAP”). These non-GAAP measures are intended to provide the reader with additional supplemental perspectives on operating results, performance trends, and financial condition. Non-GAAP financial measures are not a substitute for GAAP measures; they should be read and used in conjunction with the Company’s GAAP financial information. A reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures to GAAP measures is provided below. In all cases, it should be understood that non-GAAP measures do not depict amounts that accrue directly to the benefit of shareholders. An item which management excludes when computing non-GAAP adjusted earnings can be of substantial importance to the Company’s results for any particular quarter or year. The Company’s non-GAAP adjusted earnings information set forth is not necessarily comparable to non-GAAP information which may be presented by other companies. Each non-GAAP measure used by the Company in this report as supplemental financial data should be considered in conjunction with the Company’s GAAP financial information.

The Company utilizes the non-GAAP measure of adjusted earnings in evaluating operating trends, including components for operating revenue and expense. These measures exclude amounts which the Company views as unrelated to its normalized operations. These items primarily include securities gains/losses, merger costs, restructuring costs, goodwill impairment, and discontinued operations.

In 2021, the Company recorded a third quarter net gain of $52 million on the sale of the operations of the insurance subsidiary and the Mid-Atlantic branch operations. Expense adjustments in the first quarter 2021 were primarily related to branch consolidations. Third quarter 2021 adjustments included Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings prepayment costs. They also included other restructuring charges for efficiency initiatives in operations areas including write-downs on real estate moved to held for sale and severance related to staff reductions. The fourth quarter 2021 revenue adjustment was primarily related to trailing revenue on a previously reported sale, and the expense adjustment was due primarily to branch restructuring costs.

Discontinued operations are the Company’s national mortgage banking operations for which the Company completed the wind down of operations in 2020. Merger costs consist primarily of severance/benefit related expenses, contract termination costs, systems conversion costs, variable compensation expenses, and professional fees. There were no merger costs in 2020 and merger costs in 2019 are primarily related to the acquisition of SI Financial Group, Inc. in May 2019. Restructuring costs generally consist of costs and losses associated with the disposition of assets and liabilities and lease terminations, including costs related to branch sales. Restructuring costs also include severance and consulting expenses related to the Company’s strategic review. They also include costs related to the consolidation of branches. Restructuring expense and other for 2020 primarily related to executive separation expense as a result of the CEO transition. Restructuring expense and other for 2019 primarily related to branch consolidations.

The Company calculates certain profitability measures based on its adjusted revenue, expenses, and earnings. The Company also calculates adjusted earnings per share based on its measure of adjusted earnings. The Company views these amounts as important to understanding its operating trends, particularly due to the impact of accounting standards related to merger and acquisition activity. Analysts also rely on these measures in estimating and evaluating the Company’s performance. Management also believes that the computation of non-GAAP adjusted earnings and adjusted earnings per share may facilitate the comparison of the Company to other companies in the financial services industry.

Due to the anticipated earnings volatility resulting from loan loss provisions reflecting changes in estimates of uncertain future economic conditions under the new CECL accounting standard, many users of bank financial statements are focusing on Pre-Provision Net Revenue (“PPNR”). This is a measure of revenue less expenses, and is calculated before the loan loss provision and income tax expense. This measure gives clearer visibility of the operations of the company during the periods presented in the income statements, without the impact of period-end estimates of future uncertain events. This measure also enhances comparisons of operations across different banks, which might have significantly different period-end estimates of uncertain future economic conditions that affect the loan loss provision. Consistent with its previous practices measuring results on an adjusted basis before the impacts of acquisitions, divestitures, and other designated items, the Company has introduced the measure of Adjusted Pre-Provision Net Revenue (“Adjusted PPNR”) which measures PPNR excluding adjustments for items not viewed as

46

Table of Contents

related to ongoing operations. This measure is now integral to the Company’s analysis of its operations, and is not viewed as a substitute for GAAP measures of net income. Analysts also use this measure in assessing the Company’s operations and in making comparisons across banks. The Company and analysts also measure Adjusted PPNR/Assets in order to utilize the PPNR measure in assessing its comparative operating profitability. This measure primarily relies on the measures of adjusted revenue and adjusted expense already used in the Company’s calculation of its efficiency ratio.

The Company also adjusts certain equity related measures to exclude intangible assets due to the importance of these measures to the investment community.

The following table summarizes the reconciliation of non-GAAP items recorded for the time periods indicated:

At or For the Years Ended
(Dollars in thousands)December 31, 2021December 31, 2020December 31, 2019
GAAP Net income/(loss)$118,664$(533,017)$97,450
Non-GAAP measures
Adj: Loss/(gain) on securities, net7877,520(4,389)
Adj: Goodwill impairment553,762
Adj: Net gains on sale of business operations(52,942)(1,240)
Adj: Acquisition, restructuring, conversion, and other related expenses (1)5,7815,83928,046
Adj: Loss from discontinued operations before income taxes26,8555,539
Adj: Income taxes11,696(29,342)(7,799)
Net non-operating charges(34,678)563,39421,397
Total adjusted net income (non-GAAP)$83,986$30,377$118,847
GAAP Total revenue from continuing operations$434,414$383,089$449,260
Adj: Loss/(gain) on securities, net7877,520(4,389)
Adj: Net gains on sale of business operations(52,942)(1,240)
Total adjusted operating revenue (non-GAAP)$382,259$389,369$444,871
GAAP Total non-interest expense from continuing operations$285,893$840,239$289,857
Less: Total non-operating expense (see above)(5,781)(5,839)(28,046)
Less: Goodwill impairment(553,762)
Adjusted operating non-interest expense (non-GAAP)$280,112$280,638$261,811
Pre-tax, pre-provision net revenue (PPNR) from continuing operations$148,521$(457,150)$159,403
Adjusted pre-tax, pre-provision net revenue (PPNR)102,147108,731$183,060
(in millions, except per share data)
Total average assets$12,056$12,861$12,961
Total average shareholders' equity1,1661,4211,694
Total average tangible shareholders equity1,1341,1051,116
Total average tangible common shareholders equity1,1341,0881,076
Total tangible shareholders’ equity, period-end1,1531,1531,159
Total tangible common shareholders’ equity, period-end1,1531,1531,119
Total tangible assets, period-end11,52512,80312,613
Total common shares outstanding, period-end (thousands)48,66750,83349,585
Average diluted shares outstanding (thousands)49,55450,30849,421
Earnings/(loss) per share, diluted$2.39$(10.60)$1.97
Plus: Net adjustments per share, diluted(0.70)11.200.43
Adjusted earnings per share, diluted1.690.602.40
Book value per common share, period-end24.3023.3734.65
Tangible book value per common share, period-end23.6922.6822.56
Total shareholders' equity/total assets10.239.2513.31
Total tangible shareholders' equity/total tangible assets10.009.019.19

47

Table of Contents

At or For the Years Ended
(Dollars in thousands)December 31, 2021December 31, 2020December 31, 2019
Performance Ratios
GAAP return on assets0.98%(4.15)%0.75%
Adjusted return on assets0.700.240.93
GAAP return on equity10.18(37.46)5.75
Adjusted return on equity7.202.147.01
Adjusted return on tangible common equity7.743.1811.35
Efficiency ratio (2)69.9668.5355.63
Supplementary Data (in thousands)
Tax benefit on tax-credit investments$4,372$4,699$7,950
Non-interest income charge on tax-credit investments(3,445)(3,645)(6,455)
Net income on tax-credit investments9281,0541,495
Intangible amortization5,2006,1815,783
Fully taxable equivalent income adjustment6,3446,4027,451

____________________________________

(1)Acquisition, restructuring, conversion, and other related expenses included no merger and acquisition expenses for the years -ended December 31, 2021, and 2020. For the year-ended 2019, these expenses included $18.7 million in merger and acquisition expenses and $9.3 million of restructuring, conversion, and other expenses.

(2)Efficiency ratio is computed by dividing total core tangible non-interest expense by the sum of total net interest income on a fully taxable equivalent basis and total core non-interest income adjusted to include tax credit benefit of tax shelter investments. The Company uses this non-GAAP measure to provide important information regarding its operational efficiency.

GENERAL

This discussion is intended to assist readers in understanding the financial condition and results of operations Berkshire Hills Bancorp, Inc. (“Berkshire” or the “Company"), the changes in key items in the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements (“financial statements”) from year to year and the primary reasons for those changes.

The objectives of this section are:

•To provide a narrative explanation of the Company’s financial statements that enables investors to see the company through the eyes of management;

•To enhance the financial disclosure and provide the context within which financial information should be analyzed; and

•To provide information about the quality of, and potential future variability of, the Company’s earnings and cash flow.

This discussion includes the following sections:

•Summary

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

•Comparison of Operating Results for the Years Ended December 31, 2021 and 2020

•Comparison of Operating Results for the Years Ended December 31, 2020 and 2019

•Liquidity and Cash Flows

•Capital Resources

•Application of Critical Accounting Policies

•Enterprise Risk Management

•LIBOR Transition

•Corporate Responsibility Update

The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the Company’s financial statements and the notes thereto appearing in Item 8 of this document. In the following discussion, income statement comparisons

48

Table of Contents

are against the previous year and balance sheet comparisons are against the previous fiscal year-end, unless otherwise noted. Operating results discussed herein are not necessarily indicative of the results for the year 2022 or any future period. In management’s discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations, certain reclassifications have been made to make prior periods comparable. Tax-equivalent adjustments are the result of increasing income from tax-advantaged loans and securities by an amount equal to the taxes that would be paid if the income were fully taxable based on a 27% marginal rate (including state income taxes net of federal benefit). In the discussion, unless otherwise specified, references to earnings per share and "EPS" refer to diluted earnings per common share, including the dilutive impact of the convertible preferred shares.

Berkshire is a Delaware corporation headquartered in Boston and the holding company for Berkshire Bank (“the Bank”) Established in 1846, the Bank operates as a commercial bank under a Massachusetts trust company charter.

SUMMARY

The Company’s vision is to be a high performing, leading socially responsible community bank in New England and beyond. It offers a wide range of banking, investment, and financial services through its lines of business that include Commercial Banking, Retail Banking, Consumer Lending, Wealth Management, Private Banking, and its 44 Business Capital national SBA lending division. Berkshire is committed to unleashing the financial potential of all its stakeholders by leveraging its 175 years of expertise, leading performance on environmental, social and governance (ESG) matters and best-in-class fintech partnerships. Its differentiated DigiTouch™ approach, a powerful combination of personal service, including its MyBanker program, fused with the convenience of user-centric technology, targets high customer satisfaction and a frictionless experience.

The ongoing COVID-19 global pandemic continued to impact the Company’s activities and results in 2021. Business and consumer activity were recovering from the sharp downturn in 2020 but remained constrained by the impact of the pandemic. The Company’s markets generally reported comparatively high vaccination rates, but the emergence of new variants created disruptions throughout the year. Labor and supply shortages affected many sectors in the economy. The emergence of inflation led to expectations of a reversal of accommodative monetary policy near year-end, which had supported higher asset values across many financial and other property classes. Further federal fiscal support early in the year buoyed ongoing liquidity across the economy, and credit performance remained positive and improving throughout the year. The Company’s retail branch offices were intermittently affected by closures or reduced operations. Its non-branch workforce remained in a work-from-home status throughout the year as the Company continued to plan its transition to a hybrid work environment.

Berkshire reported net income of $119 million in 2021, compared to a loss of $533 million in 2020 and net income of $97 million in 2019. The loss in 2020 was primarily due to pandemic impacts leading to the write-off of goodwill and elevated provisioning for expected credit losses. Net income in 2021 included the benefit of lower credit loss provision expense reflecting strong credit performance. Results in 2021 also included gains recorded on the sale of Mid-Atlantic branches and insurance operations which were part of the Company’s strategy to focus on core markets and return excess equity to shareholders.

The Company uses the non-GAAP measure of adjusted earnings to assess its performance. This measure excludes items not viewed as related to ongoing operations. These items were presented and reconciled to GAAP measures in a previous section of this Item 7. Adjusted earnings were $84 million in 2021, compared to $30 million in 2020 and $119 million in 2019. The decrease in 2021 adjusted earnings compared to the pre-pandemic year of 2019 is a result of pandemic, economic, and operating factors leading to lower operating leverage. The Company’s BEST strategic plan goal, discussed below, is to restore operating leverage through revenue growth and expense discipline and to improve efficiencies based on its operating focus and technology initiatives.

Net income per share totaled $2.39 in 2021, and adjusted earnings per share totaled $1.69. For the year 2021, book value per share increased by 4% to $24.30, and the non-GAAP measure of tangible book value per share also increased by 4% to $23.69.

The Company’s Board of Directors recruited Nitin Mhatre as Chief Executing Officer in January 2021, completing the transition following the resignation of the previous CEO in August 2020. During the first quarter of 2021, the

49

Table of Contents

Company recruited Subhadeep Basu as SEVP/ Chief Financial Officer, replacing the prior CFO who resigned during the quarter. Also, during 2021, following the departure of the SEVP/Head of Consumer Banking, the Company recruited Lucy Bellomia as EVP/Head of Retail Banking and Ellen Steinfeld as EVP/Head of Consumer Lending and Payments. During 2021, Board Chair J. Williar Dunlaevy retired from the board, and Vice Chair David Brunelle was elected to the position of Board Chair. Three new directors joined the Board during the year: Nina A. Charnley, Jeffrey W. Kip, and Michael A. Zaitzeff.

In the second quarter of 2021, the Company announced its Berkshire’s Exciting Strategic Transformation (BEST) plan. The comprehensive BEST plan is targeted to improve the customer experience, deliver profitable growth, enhance stakeholder value and strengthen Berkshire’s community impact with improved focus on long-term efficiency, its customers, and its communities. The BEST plan has five major goals over the three-year plan period:

•Return On Tangible Common Equity (ROTCE): 10 - 12%

◦2021 Return on tangible common equity was 10.80%; Adjusted ROTCE was 7.74%

•Return on Assets (ROA): 1.00 – 1.05%

◦2021 ROA was 0.98%; Adjusted ROA was 0.70%

•Annual Pre-tax Pre-Provision Net Revenue (PPNR): $180 - 200 million

◦2021 PPNR was $149 million; adjusted PPNR was $102 million

•Net Promoter Score (NPS) in top quartile among New England banks

◦NPS measures customer experience and is correlated with business growth potential

◦NPS measure to be initiated in 2022

•ESG ranking in the top quartile nationally based on composite metrics tracked by the Company

◦ESG percentile ranking improved from 39th at year-end 2020 to 24th at year-end 2021

The plan has three major pillars; optimize, digitize, and enhance, outlined below along with the Company's 2021 accomplishments:

•Optimize

◦Completed the sale of its Mid-Atlantic branch operations, sold insurance operations, and consolidated 16 branch locations.

◦Procurement programs were widely initiated throughout the company.

◦Excess real estate was identified and designated as held for sale.

◦A third-party partnership was entered into for residential mortgage servicing.

•Digitize

◦Built out Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) to core systems.

◦Data warehouse technology was enhanced and enterprise analytics were expanded.

◦A mobile deposit application was deployed to customers through a fintech partnership.

◦A third-party fintech partnership was entered into for internet and mobile consumer loan origination.

•Enhance

◦Front-line bankers were recruited across multiple business lines.

◦Socially responsible wealth management investment solutions were introduced.

◦A residential mortgage origination conduit was initiated with third-party in-market bank partners.

◦A 5% share repurchase was completed and a new repurchase program for additional buybacks was announced after year-end for approximately 9% of outstanding shares.

In the third quarter, Berkshire announced its BEST Community Comeback initiative that targets to lend and invest $5 billion over three years to strengthen the economic health of its communities, an industry-leading commitment given the relative size of the program and the Bank. This initiative includes specific targets for small business lending, lending in low and moderate income neighborhoods, mortgage lending to minorities, and lending for low-

50

Table of Contents

carbon projects amongst other non-financial measures. The plan is expected to help create more businesses and jobs, assist more families in achieving the dream of homeownership and support the transition to a low-carbon economy.

Berkshire resumed commercial loan growth in the fourth quarter of 2021 after a number of quarters of attrition from targeted run-off and lower demand. Growth of non-interest-bearing deposit account balances totaled 21% in 2021. The Company used excess liquidity to reduce higher cost wholesale funds and to increase the portfolio of investment securities. At year-end 2021, the Company viewed itself as having excess liquidity to support plans for resumed loan growth, further reductions in higher cost funds, and stock repurchases in the coming year.

The Company ended 2021 with cash and cash equivalents measuring 14% of total assets, contributing to strongly positive earnings sensitivity to higher interest rates. These low yielding assets reduced profitability metrics in 2021 but positioned the Company to benefit from forecast higher interest rates in 2022 and beyond. In addition to its $1.6 billion in year-end cash and equivalents, the Company also had $3.4 billion in loans with scheduled repricings within three months.

At year-end 2021, many of the Company’s asset quality and credit performance metrics had returned to pre-pandemic levels. The Company reduced the level of its credit loss allowance/loans in the fourth quarter and anticipated possible further normalization of reserve coverage if public health and economic conditions continued to support strong credit performance.

In 2021, Berkshire established a new banking region in Southern Connecticut and recruited a veteran Connecticut banking professional as SVP, Regional President & Middle Market Team Leader in Southern Connecticut, based in New Haven. The Company also opened a new Commercial Banking office in Providence, Rhode Island to complement and expand its existing Rhode Island presence. The Company also hired experienced frontline bankers in its growing Commercial Banking, SBA Lending, Asset-Based Lending, Wealth Management, Private Banking, and MyBanker teams.

The Company believes that merger activities among major local competitors provide opportunity for customer and talent acquisition over the near and medium term. The Company’s strategy is to be “banker heavy and branch light” in newer markets. The Company’s goal is to produce positive operating leverage through revenue growth and disciplined expense management utilizing expanded market channels, it’s 175 year history of community focus and it’s Digitouch™ strategy which combines personal service with the convenience of user-friendly technology.

The Company reduced its total branch banking offices from 130 offices at the start of the year to 106 offices at year-end 2021, including the 8 Mid-Atlantic offices sold and the consolidation of 16 other offices. The Company is considering the further consolidation of another 5 - 10 branches. Berkshire executed this plan in conjunction with the expansion of its MyBanker concierge style banking program. Deposit retention in the consolidated branches is regarded as high in part due to the MyBanker program,

At year-end 2021, forecasts of economic and public health conditions were supportive of the prospects for continued improvement in the Company’s markets. While uncertainties remain about the course of public health and government programs that have supported the economy during the pandemic, the Company views itself as positioned with excess capital and excess liquidity to support its strategies. Price inflation has recently reached levels not seen in four decades, and interest rate levels are expected to increase sharply after years of low interest rates. The Company’s income is targeted to benefit from higher rates based on its asset sensitive interest rate sensitivity profile.

COMPARISON OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AT DECEMBER 31, 2021 AND DECEMBER 31, 2020

Summary: Total assets decreased to $11.6 billion from $12.8 billion during 2021. This included the $0.6 billion impact of the sale of the Mid-Atlantic branch operations, along with the impact of $0.6 billion in Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) loan payoffs. Cash and cash equivalents increased to 14% of total assets, contributing to heightened asset sensitivity which is expected to benefit income in the forecast rising rate environment. The ratio of loans to deposits decreased to 68% from 79%, and the regulatory ratio of common equity tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets increased to 15.0% from 13.8%. Most major measures of asset quality strengthened as economic

51

Table of Contents

conditions improved from distressed pandemic conditions, with many measures returning to pre-pandemic levels. The Company paid down most higher cost wholesale funding which, along with ongoing repricing of maturing retail time deposits, continued to lower overall funding costs and support the net interest margin. Stock repurchases were resumed in 2021 following a pause in 2020 and are targeted to accelerate in 2022.

Investments: Short-term investments remained elevated at $1.52 billion, or 14% of earning assets at year-end 2021.

These funds are available for ongoing payoffs of remaining maturing brokered deposits and are available to fund targeted net loan growth in 2022, as well as potential increases in the investment securities portfolio. Most short-term investments are held at the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston. The yield on short-term investments was approximately 0.17% in the final quarter of 2021, which brought down the overall yield on earning assets and the return on assets until the planned opportunity to source higher yielding loans and investments in 2022.

The portfolio of investment securities increased by $325 million, or 15%, to $2.55 billion in 2021, with much of this growth recorded in the fourth quarter in order to avoid further accumulation of low yielding short-term investments.

Growth was concentrated in agency mortgage-backed securities. Approximately 53% of the net growth was in held to maturity securities in order to limit negative impacts on accumulated other comprehensive income in shareholders’ equity if rising rates lead to bond price declines which would result in charges to shareholders’ equity. The portfolio is highly liquid, with an average life of 4.6 years for the bond portfolio at period-end. The portfolio yield decreased to 2.04% in the fourth quarter of 2021 from 2.69% in the fourth quarter of 2020, due to ongoing compression of asset yields.

The portfolio of investment securities had an unrealized gain of $6 million, or 0.2% of cost, at period-end, compared to $68 million, or 3.2% of cost at the start of the year, due to the rise in medium term interest rates during 2021. The Company continues to evaluate possible expansion of the securities portfolio to utilize a portion of excess short-term investments, taking into consideration the outlook for interest rates, loan growth, and deposit behaviors.

Loans: Total loans decreased by $1.3 billion, or 16% in 2021, to $6.83 billion. This primarily reflected $0.6 billion in PPP loan pay-offs and $0.6 billion in run-off of residential mortgages and consumer loans. The PPP loan repayments were based on SBA loan forgiveness procedures and were anticipated. Excluding these loans, total commercial loans decreased by $74 million due to a $158 million decrease in commercial loans to COVID-sensitive industries.

Commercial loan growth turned positive in the final quarter of the year as new frontline bankers contributed to loan originations. This also contributed to a strengthening of the commercial loan pipeline at year-end.

At year-end 2021, non-owner occupied commercial real estate loans measured 223% of risk based capital, compared to the 300% federal regulatory monitoring guideline. Construction loans measured 26% of risk-based capital, compared to the 100% guideline. Included in commercial and industrial loans, the remaining balance of PPP loans was $30 million at year-end 2021, having declined from $633 million at the start of the year due to payoffs from SBA loan forgiveness. Also included in commercial and industrial loans are the asset-based lending loans managed by the Company’s growing ABL team in the Northeast and MidAtlantic. At year-end 2021, total C&I loans included $440 million of ABL balances, which was a 40% increase over the prior year-end. The Company’s 44 Business Capital national SBA lending group ranked 24th nationally for the SBA year ending September 30, 2021, with a total of $293 million in gross loans approved. The Company sells the SBA guaranteed portion of these loans, with the result that 44 Business Capital is one of the Company’s largest sources of non-interest income.

Residential mortgage runoff reflected ongoing prepayments in the low interest rate environment. Berkshire is expanding its mortgage origination team and is also developing conduit relationships with in-market third-party lenders. Consumer loan runoff primarily represents targeted run-off of the indirect auto loan portfolio. The balance of this portfolio was $110 million at year-end 2021, compared to $222 million at year-end 2020. In the fourth quarter of 2021, the Bank initiated a relationship with a leading artificial intelligence digital (AI) lending platform designed to improve access to affordable consumer credit while reducing the risk and costs of lending. The

52

Table of Contents

Company is investigating additional consumer lending channels as it pursues the strategies and goals set out in its BEST and Berkshire Community Comeback programs.

At year-end 2021, 50% of total loans were scheduled to mature or reprice within three months. contributing to the modeled asset sensitivity of the Company’s interest rate risk profile.

Asset Quality and Credit Loss Allowance: Major asset quality metrics improved in 2021, trending towards pre-pandemic levels. Total non-accruing loans decreased year-over-year and ended below the year-end 2019 pre-pandemic level, declining to $35 million and measuring 0.52% of period-end loans. Total delinquent loans decreased year-over-year and compared to year-end 2019, totaling $78 million and measuring 1.15% of year-end 2021 loans. Net loan charge-offs decreased compared to the prior two years, totaling $21 million in 2021 and measuring 0.29% of average loans in 2021. Accruing troubled debt restructurings totaled $17 million at year-end 2021 compared to $18 million at year-end 2020. Total COVID-19 loan modifications decreased to $14 million at year-end 2021 from approximately $1.5 billion in the second quarter of 2020 and $316 million at year-end 2020.

Criticized loans decreased year-over-year to $242 million, measuring 3.5% of total year-end 2021 loans. These included classified loans which decreased to $142 million, measuring 2.1% of year-end 2021 loans. The Company has traditionally viewed its potential problem loans as those loans from business activities which are rated as classified and continue to accrue interest. These loans have a possibility of loss if weaknesses are not corrected. Accruing classified loans decreased year-over-year to $106 million at year-end 2021.

The allowance for credit losses on loans decreased by $21 million, or 17%, to $106 million during 2021. The ratio of the allowance to total loans measured 1.55%, compared to 1.58% at the start of the year. The ratio of the allowance to total loans remains higher than the 0.94% ratio following the adoption of CECL and prior to the emergence of the pandemic. The Company anticipates that the allowance ratio may decline in 2022, depending on economic and qualitative factors, and depending on the portfolio performance and mix.

The allowance is based on a methodology which considers historic loss rates for loans by collateral type and includes components for the impact of forecast economic conditions on loss rates, as well as an evaluation of qualitative factors including current period loan performance metrics and consideration of the benefit of government support in reducing possible loss rates. The economic forecast utilizes third-party base case projections and estimates credit loss impacts for the next seven quarters, with straight-line reversion to historical losses thereafter. The overall weighted average portfolio life was estimated at approximately 2.9 years at year-end 2021.

Deposits and Borrowings: Berkshire has been pursuing a course of reducing higher cost wholesale funds by paying off brokered time deposits and FHLB borrowings as they mature, as well as prepaying most longer maturity FHLB borrowings. Total wholesale funds were reduced to $340 million, or 3% of total year-end 2021 assets, compared to $1.18 billion, or 9% of total assets at year-end 2020.

Total deposits decreased by $147 million, or 1%, to $10.07 billion during 2021. Excluding the $383 million decrease in brokered deposits, total deposits increased by $236 million, or 2%, in 2021. Non-interest-bearing demand deposits increased by $524 million, or 21%, including the benefit of federal stimulus payments in the Company’s markets, along with funds inflows from maturing retail time deposits. The Company entered the year with $1.77 billion in retail time deposits and repriced maturing time deposits down in the current low rate environment, with the result that retail time deposits decreased by $324 million, and most maturing funds were transferred to demand deposits and other deposit products, including savings deposits. Most of the remaining $1.45 billion remaining balance of retail time deposits at year-end 2021 was scheduled to mature in 2021, and the Company targets additional deposit cost savings on these maturing deposits.

The total cost of deposits decreased in the fourth quarter of 2021 to 0.19% from 0.47% in the same quarter of 2020. This mostly reflected the growth in non-interest-bearing checking accounts and the reduction and downward repricing of time deposits, which cost 0.80% compared to 1.35% for the above respective periods. The total cost of funds decreased to 0.26% from 0.60% for these periods and included the benefit from the paydown of borrowings.

53

Table of Contents

Other Assets and Liabilities: At year-end 2020, liabilities held for sale totaling $630 million and assets held for sale totaling $317 million included deposits and loans held for sale pursuant to the contract for the sale of the Mid-Atlantic branch operations. This sale was completed in the third quarter of 2021.

Derivative Financial Instruments: There were no material changes in the portfolio of outstanding derivative financial instruments, which totaled $3.8 billion in notional amount at period-end. The estimated fair value of these instruments was an asset of $43 million at period-end, which decreased from $94 million at year-end 2020 due to the impact of rising medium term interest rates on the value of outstanding commercial loan interest rate swaps.

Shareholders' Equity: Total shareholders’ equity was unchanged at $1.18 billion in 2021, as the contribution from net income was offset by shareholder distributions in the form of dividends and stock repurchases, along with a charge to accumulated other comprehensive net income due to lower debt investment security valuations related to higher medium interest rates at year-end. Due to the decline in assets, capital metrics improved year-over-year, with the common equity tier 1 capital ratio strengthening further to 15.0% from 13.8% at the start of the year. The Company’s BEST plan targets reducing this ratio to around 11% over time through loan growth and shareholder distributions of excess capital.

During the second quarter, Berkshire announced board authorization for the repurchase of 2.5 million shares, or approximately 5% of the then outstanding shares. The Company completed this repurchase in the third quarter, paying an average price of $27.48 per share, totaling $69 million, for the repurchase of the 2.5 million shares. After year-end, the Company announced the approval of another repurchase authorization through 2022 totaling $140 million, equating to approximately 9% of outstanding shares. The Company maintained its $0.12 per share quarterly dividend through 2021.

54

Table of Contents

COMPARISON OF OPERATING RESULTS FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021 AND 2020

Summary: Berkshire reported net income of $119 million, or $2.39 per share, in 2021, compared to a loss of $533 million, or $10.60 per share, in 2020. The loss in 2020 was primarily due to pandemic impacts leading to a $554 million pre-tax charge to write-off goodwill. The Company also recorded a $27 million pre-tax charge in 2020 as it completed the exit from discontinued national mortgage banking operations. In 2021, the Company recorded a pre-tax gain of $53 million on the sale of its Mid-Atlantic branch operations and its insurance operations.

The Company uses the non-GAAP measure of adjusted income to assess its performance, with component measures of adjusted revenue and adjusted expense. These measures exclude items not viewed as related to ongoing operations. In addition to the above items, the Company excludes securities gains and losses, other sale related gains and losses, and restructuring and other expense, together with related tax impacts, as discussed in the previous section on non-GAAP financial measures. Adjusted income totaled $84 million, or $1.69 per share, in 2021, compared to $30 million, or $0.60 per share, in 2020. Earnings in 2020 were depressed by $76 million in credit loss provision expense based on future loan loss expectations following the emergence of the pandemic.

Berkshire entered into an agreement to sell the operations of its eight mid-Atlantic branches in 2020 and completed the sale in the third quarter of 2021. During that quarter, the Company also announced and completed the sale of the operations of its insurance subsidiary. These operations were not viewed as central to the Company’s strategy. The sales produced $53 million in pre-tax gains which are planned to be returned to shareholders through the announced share buyback program. The operating expenses related to these sold operations are being reinvested in bankers and technology contributing to Berkshire’s BEST plan with a goal of replacing and expanding on the revenues previously related to these sold operations.

The return on tangible common equity measured 10.80% in 2021 and the non-GAAP measure of adjusted return on tangible common equity measured 7.74%. The Company’s BEST plan targets improving this measure to the 10 -12% range. Return on assets measured 0.98% in 2020, while the adjusted return on assets measured 0.70%. The Company’s BEST plan targets improving this measure to the 1.00 – 1.05% range.

Revenue: Total net revenue increased 13% year-over-year due to the gains on sales of operations. The non-GAAP measure of adjusted revenue excluding sale gains and losses, decreased year-over-year by $7 million, or 2%, to $382 million in 2021. A decrease in net interest income was partially offset by higher fee income. Contributing to this decrease were the four months of operating revenues related to the branch and insurance operations that were sold at the start of September. The Company targets to increase these revenues in 2022 based on expanded frontline bankers, increased business activity, and improved margins in the forecast environment of higher interest rates.

Net Interest Income: Net interest income decreased year-over-year by $26 million, or 8%. The Company recorded a $612 million, or 5%, decrease in average earning assets and a 4% decrease in the net interest margin to 2.60% in 2021 compared to 2.72% in 2020. The decrease in average earning assets was due to the use of funds from loan runoff to reduce wholesale funding, along with the impact of the sale of branch operations.

The net interest margin was generally stable over the last five quarters, ranging between 2.56% and 2.62% on a quarterly basis, and ending the year at 2.60 % in the fourth quarter of 2021. The full year decrease compared to 2020 was primarily due to the sharp contraction in the margin in the second quarter of 2020 as a result of the near-zero interest rate monetary policy. The margin in the first three quarters of 2021 included an average 9 basis point benefit from PPP loans due to elevated recognition of deferred PPP income at the time of loan repayment. There was no benefit in the fourth quarter due to the reduced PPP loan balance. The fourth quarter margin benefited from ongoing reduction in funding costs, along with higher investment securities balances. As discussed in the later section on interest rate sensitivity, the Company’s models indicate that the Company’s net interest income is positively sensitive to higher interest rates, based on conditions and model assumptions at year-end 2021. The Company also targets to benefit from maturing higher rate time deposits in 2022.

55

Table of Contents

Non-Interest Income: Total fee income increased year-over-year by $14 million, or 21%, due primarily to an $18 million increase in loan fees and revenue. This included a $9 million increase in revenue related to SBA loan originations, which totaled a record $21 million in 2021 after recovering from pandemic impacts on business volume in 2020. Fee revenue benefited from a decrease in fair value charges related to mortgage servicing rights and interest rate swaps which were elevated in 2020 after the plunge in interest rates resulting from federal monetary policy actions. Loan fees benefited by $2 million in 2021 from PPP loan referral fees recorded mostly in the first quarter of the year in relation to the second round of PPP loan support which the Company referred to a third-party.

Fee income also benefited in 2021 from a $2 million, or 7%, increase in deposit related fees and a $1 million, or 13%, increase in wealth management related revenue. This was offset by a $4 million reduction in insurance fee revenue due to the sale of these operations in the third quarter. Mortgage banking revenue decreased by $3 million, or 60%, as origination activity was reduced in 2021. Other non-interest income also benefited from an improvement related to fair valued loans resulting from charges in 2020 and recoveries in 2021.

The Company is actively expanding its SBA lending, mortgage banking, and wealth management teams as part of its strategy to build revenues and earnings and reduce reliance on net interest income. The Company is evaluating potential changes in industry practice related to overdraft fees which could reduce future deposit related fee income. Net overdraft fee income totaled $8 million in 2021.

Securities losses in 2020 were due primarily to pandemic related impacts on equity securities values. Gains on the sale of operations in 2021 were related to the previously described sales of branch operations and insurance operations.

Credit Loss Provision Expense: The Company recorded a $500 thousand credit to provision expense in 2021, compared to a $76 million charge in 2020. The elevated charge in 2020 was due to the provision for estimated credit losses projected to arise from the pandemic. In 2021, the credit to the provision resulted from a $21 million release of the credit loss allowance net of $21 million in net loan charge-offs. The allowance release was primarily due to the reduction in loan balances during the year.

Non-Interest Expense: Non-interest expense decreased year-over-year by $554 million due to the $554 million charge for the write-down of goodwill in 2020. Non-interest expense was flat before the impact of this charge and benefited from the third quarter sale of branch and insurance operations. Modest increases in compensation and technology expense were partially offset by lower occupancy expense. Lower salary expense was offset by higher performance-based compensation, which had been reduced in 2020 due to the pandemic. Professional services expense increased by $4 million, including $3 million accrued in the first quarter for legal, consulting, and other advisory services related to board and management matters. The category of all other expense decreased including the impact of higher lending and workout related charges in 2020. Procurement initiatives have been deployed across the company, contributing to lower expenses for occupancy and professional services towards the end of the year.

The Company completed the consolidation of 16 branch offices in 2021. Including the 8 Mid-Atlantic branches sold, total branch offices declined from 130 to 106, as the Company pursues its “branch light, banker heavy” strategy for front-line bankers in managing expansion and market positioning. This includes a focus on its MyBankers who provide dedicated relationship support to customers with committed banking relationships.

Full time equivalent staff totaled 1,319 positions at year-end 2021, compared to 1,505 positions at the start of the year. This decrease included 79 positions which were transferred in conjunction with the sale of insurance and branch operations. The Company designated a number of real estate properties as held for sale in the third quarter as it pursues its efficiency strategies for reducing overhead and evolving a hybrid work environment. Due to the revenue contraction, the efficiency ratio increased year-over-year to 69.96% from 68.53%.

56

Table of Contents

Income Tax Expense: Income taxes are discussed in a note to the financial statements; this note is important to an understanding of the results of operations. The Company recorded an effective income tax rate of 20% on income from continuing operations in 2021. The Company recorded a benefit to income tax expense in 2020 due to loss carrybacks resulting from the 2020 loss.

The 2021 effective tax rate included a 2.3% benefit from tax exemptions on investment securities. The effective tax rate was also reduced by 2.3% related to the Company’s tax credit investment projects for historic rehabilitation and low income housing. The Company reported $0.02 per share in net income benefit in both 2021 and 2020 related to investments in tax credit projects, net of amortization charges recorded to non-interest income. The Company actively pursues tax credit investment projects in its markets to provide financial support to community development projects as part of its overall banking services while also generating an appropriate return on the Bank’s investment.

Discontinued Operations: In the fourth quarter of 2020, the Company completed the exit of its national mortgage banking operations. These operations generated a net loss of $20 million in 2020. These operations are excluded from the Company’s measures of adjusted net income.

Total Comprehensive Income: Total comprehensive income includes net income together with other comprehensive income, which primarily consists of unrealized gains/losses on debt securities available for sale, after tax. The decrease in interest rates in 2020 resulted in $19 million in other net after-tax comprehensive income and the increase in medium term interest rates in 2021 resulted in a $34 million other net after-tax comprehensive loss.

COMPARISON OF OPERATING RESULTS FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2020 AND 2019

Summary: Revenue and expense included the SI Financial operations acquired on May 17, 2019. Additionally, due to the COVID-19 pandemic Berkshire reported charges of $554 million for goodwill impairment and $76 million for the provision for credit losses. As a result, many categories of revenue and expense are not directly comparable year-over-year. For the year 2020, the Company recorded a loss of $533 million, or $10.60 per share. In 2019, the Company recorded earnings for the year of $97 million, or $1.97 per share.

Revenue: Revenue was adversely impacted by the pandemic in 2020, including the impact of lower business volumes, fee waivers, and tighter margins. Net revenue decreased by $66 million, or 15%, to $383 million in 2020. Revenue in 2020 included a full year of revenue from SI Financial operations acquired in May 2019. The full year decrease included a $48 million decrease in net interest income, a $7 million decrease in fee income, and a $12 million adverse swing in net securities gains/losses.

Net Interest Income: Net interest income decreased by $48 million, or 13% in 2020. This was the result of a 14% decrease in the net interest margin to 2.72% from 3.17%. The fourth quarter 2020 net interest margin was 2.61%. Quarterly net interest income peaked at $97 million in the third quarter of 2019, including the first full quarter of benefit from the acquired SI Financial operations. Net interest income decreased to $91 million in the fourth quarter of 2019 and then decreased sequentially in 2020 to $76 million in the final quarter. The margin was under pressure coming into 2020 due to the anticipated loss of purchased loan accretion income, including the impact of the CECL accounting standard. The Company’s interest rate risk profile was asset sensitive and was structurally sensitive both to the decrease in interest rates and to the low and relatively flat yield curve. The approximate 1.50% decrease in short-term interest rates resulting from the Federal Reserve Bank’s near zero interest rate policy response to the pandemic was adverse to the Company’s net interest margin. Additionally, the Company took on higher cost funds at the start of the pandemic to further strengthen liquidity in the national emergency as part of its risk management protocol. Also, the decline in higher yielding loans reduced this yield as the primary source of interest revenue.

Non-Interest Income: Fee income decreased year-over-year $7 million, or 9% due to pandemic impacts on deposit and loan fees. The decrease in deposit fees was due to pandemic impacts which resulted in less consumer spending and higher household liquidity. Additionally, overdraft fees and other deposit fees reflected increased fee waivers,

57

Table of Contents

which were granted programmatically by the Company as part of its support to its communities during initial lockdowns. The decrease in loan related fees included a reduction in commercial swap fee income due to lower demand, along with impacts from market value adjustments to the carrying value of commercial loan swaps. Other pandemic related market value adjustments affecting 2020 results related to charges against mortgage servicing rights and fair valued loans. Securities losses in 2020 were primarily due to the impact of the pandemic related stock market selloff on the carrying value of equity securities.

Provision for Credit Losses: In adopting the CECL accounting model on January 1, 2020, the Company moved from an incurred loss methodology to an expected loss methodology. Additionally, due to the emergence of the pandemic in March 2020, the Company recorded expected pandemic-related losses as provision expense against current period operations. Accordingly, provision expense increased year-over-year to $76 million from $35 million. The provision in 2019 included a component recognizing the incurred expense related to a $16 million charge-off in a fraud related commercial loan situation.

Non-Interest Expense: Total non-interest expense increased by $550 million due to the $554 million second quarter write-off of goodwill. Expenses in 2020 included a full year of the acquired SI Financial operations. Full time equivalent staff in continuing operations at year-end 2020 totaled 1,505, compared to 1,550 positions at the start of the year.

Income Tax Expense: The Company recorded a $20 million income tax benefit on 2020 continuing operations, including a benefit from the deductible portion of goodwill related impairment expense. In 2019, the Company’s effective tax rate was 18% on pre-tax income from continuing operations.

LIQUIDITY AND CASH FLOWS

Short-Term Liquidity: In 2021, the primary sources of cash were the decrease in total loans and the increase in demand deposits. The primary uses of cash were the reduction of wholesale funds, the settlement of the branch sale, and increases in short and long-term investments.

The Company viewed itself as having excess short-term liquidity at year-end 2021, with cash and equivalents totaling $1.6 billion, or 14% of total assets. The Company targets to use its excess liquidity in 2022 to fund growth in loans and investment securities, and to paydown higher cost funds sources. The Company also anticipates using liquidity to fund share repurchases under its $140 million stock repurchase program. Based on contractual obligations and ongoing operations, the Corporation's sources of liquidity are sufficient to meet present and future liquidity needs. Contractual obligations are viewed as normal in the context of banking operations, and consist primarily of payment schedules of financial instruments and off balance sheet commitments as discussed in the consolidated financial statements.

In addition to its cash and cash equivalents, the primary sources of the Company’s on balance sheet liquidity are its portfolio of high-quality marketable securities and the pledgeable loans in its loan portfolio. In addition to its on-balance sheet liquidity, the Bank has access to brokered deposits and to short-term credit availability. At year-end 2021, unused borrowing capacity at the FHLBB was $1.5 billion, and borrowing availability at the Fed discount window was $0.5 billion.

The Bank monitors a series of liquidity indicators and maintains monthly and quarterly forecasts of liquidity and cash flow, with primary focus on on-balance sheet cash equivalents and high-quality liquid investment securities in relation to scheduled debt and time deposit maturities. The Company views its liquidity as strong based on its high level of cash and equivalents and reduced use of wholesale funding.

The Company maintains a contingency funding plan based on its assessment of the liquidity stress environment. Primary liquidity data is reported on daily, and thirty-day stress analytics are maintained on an updated basis. A one year forward liquidity stress test evaluates stress across a variety of stress scenarios, including severe adverse loan loss scenarios due to the pandemic. The Company has defined strategic options which allow it to meet funding needs in all stress scenarios.

58

Table of Contents

Long-Term Liquidity: Over the long term, the Company expects to generate organic deposit growth that will fund organic loan growth. Operating earnings are expected to fund routine cash operating costs and capital expenditures. As a depository institution, the Bank maintains a high-quality liquid securities portfolio as a source of liquidity to service unexpected customer demand for loan advances or deposit withdrawals. Additionally, the aforementioned FHLBB and Federal Reserve Bank secured borrowing arrangements are maintained, and the Company and Bank have investment grade debt ratings from a Nationally Recognized Statistical Rating Organization (KBRA – Kroll Bond Rating Agency) to support access to public and institutional debt markets. The Company also is active in secondary markets for residential mortgages and SBA guaranteed loans, which support its organic growth without relying on internal liquidity and capital resources. The Company is monitoring for potential shifts in deposit sources as customer usage of traditional banking channels is also impacted by the spread of fintech alternatives. The Company’s strategy is to actively partner with fintechs to pursue a strong position in the evolving financial marketplace, while evolving its own technology to support these partnerships. The Company is also monitoring potential shifts in deposit demand if interest rates and inflation rise rapidly and pandemic related customer liquidity declines.

Parent Company Liquidity: Total cash held by the holding company was $109 million at year-end 2021. The Company targets to use cash at the holding company together with dividends from the Bank to fund holding company cash uses including modest operating expenditures, debt service, purchases of investments, shareholder dividends, and stock repurchases. A $50 million cash dividend was paid from the Bank to the parent company after year-end as an additional source of funds for stock repurchases. The holding company generally expects to maintain cash on hand equivalent to normal cash uses, including common stock dividends, for at least a one year period. Beginning in the third quarter of 2020, the Company cut its cash dividend to shareholders in half, reducing the quarterly cash dividend requirement from $12 million to $6 million. Bank dividends to the holding company presently require approval by the FDIC and the Massachusetts Division of Banks. The holding company’s goal is to maintain access to private and public credit markets to provide access to additional liquidity sources depending on conditions.

CAPITAL RESOURCES

Please see the “Shareholders’ Equity” section of the Comparison of Financial Condition for a discussion of shareholders’ equity together with the note on Shareholders' Equity in the consolidated financial statements.

The Company views its regulatory capital measures as providing it with a cushion of excess capital in relation to its operating condition, risk profile, and strategic plans, and compared to peers. The Company’s priorities for uses of its capital are based on maintaining strong capital, supporting organic growth and its BEST strategic plan, paying a dividend yield that in the long run is competitive and targets a 30-40% payout ratio, and distributing excess capital to shareholders through stock repurchases.

The Company repurchased approximately 5% of its shares in 2021 and has approved an additional repurchase program for approximately 9% of its shares up to $140 million in 2022. The Company repurchased shares in 2019 but allowed a repurchase authorization to expire unused in 2020 due to the onset of the pandemic. In large measure, these repurchases represented a return of capital that became excess as a result of the reduction of certain business activities and loans, including targeted runoff of selected portfolios.

The Company’s long-term goal is to maintain a competitive capital stack and to provide a return in excess of the cost of its common equity capital. The Company’s tier 2 capital includes a $75 million subordinated note which converts to a floating rate and becomes callable as of September 2022. The Company will monitor capital markets conditions while assessing future plans for this capital. The Company maintains a universal shelf registration of capital securities with the SEC. The Company and Bank are investment grade rated by the KBRA bond rating service. The Company’s stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange and the Company views itself as having good access to current capital markets.

The Company performs capital stress testing at least annually and has a general goal to remain qualifying for the “well capitalized” designation in the severely stressed scenario. The Company views its current stressed capital position as sound and conforming to its objectives.

59

Table of Contents

In acting as a source of strength for the Bank, the Company relies in the long term on capital distributions from the Bank in order to provide operating and capital service for the Company, which in turn can access national financial markets to provide financial support to the Bank. Capital distributions from the Bank to the parent company presently require approval by the FDIC and the Massachusetts Division of Banking.

APPLICATION OF CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The Company’s significant accounting policies and modifications to significant accounting policies made during the year are described in Note 1 to the financial statements. The preparation of the financial statements is in accordance with GAAP and general practices applicable to the financial services industry. This preparation requires management to make estimates, assumptions, and judgements that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. The judgment and assumptions made are based upon historical experience, future forecasts, or other factors that management believes to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results could differ from those estimates, assumptions, and judgements.

Not all significant accounting policies require management to make difficult, subjective or complex judgments. Certain estimates inherently have a greater reliance on the use of assumptions and judgments and, as such, have a greater possibility of producing results that could be materially different than originally reported. The following significant accounting policies are considered most critical in that they are important to the Company’s financial condition and results, and they require management’s subjective and complex judgment as a result of the need to make estimates about the effects of matters that are inherently uncertain. Both of these most critical accounting policies were significant in determining income and financial condition based on events in 2021.

Allowance for Credit Losses for Loans

The allowance for credit losses for loans (“ACLL”) represents management’s estimate of expected credit losses over the expected contractual life of our loan portfolio. Determining the appropriateness of the ACLL is complex and requires judgment by management about the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain. Subsequent evaluations of the then-existing loan portfolio, in light of the factors then prevailing, may result in significant changes in the ACLL in those future periods.

The appropriateness of the ACLL could change significantly because current economic conditions and forecasts can change and future events are inherently difficult to predict. It is difficult to estimate how potential changes in any one economic factor or input might affect the overall allowance because a wide variety of factors and inputs are considered in estimating the allowance and changes in those factors and inputs considered may not occur at the same rate and may not be consistent across all product types. Additionally, changes in factors and inputs may be directionally inconsistent, such that improvement in one factor may offset deterioration in others. While management utilizes its best judgment and information available, the ultimate adequacy of our ACLL is dependent upon a variety of factors beyond our control, including the performance of our portfolios, the economy, and changes in interest rates. For detailed information on the ACLL see Note 1- Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Note 7 – Loans and Allowance for Credit Losses.

Fair Value Measurements

The Company uses fair value measurements to determine fair value disclosures and to record fair value adjustments to certain assets and liabilities, such as interest rate swaps, impaired loans, securities available for sale, and derivatives. Our fair values are based on the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. Additionally, from time to time, the Company may be required to record certain assets at fair value on a non-recurring basis, such as certain impaired loans held for investment and capitalized servicing rights. These non-recurring fair value adjustments typically involve write-downs of individual assets due to application of lower-of-cost or market accounting or other accounting standards.

Management has established and documented a process for determining fair value. The use of observable inputs is maximized and the use of unobservable inputs is minimized when developing fair value measurements. Whenever

60

Table of Contents

there is no readily available market data, management uses its best estimate and assumptions in determining fair value, but these estimates involve inherent uncertainties and the application of management’s judgment. As a result, if other assumptions had been used, our recorded earnings or disclosures could have been materially different from those reflected in these financial statements. For detailed information on our use of fair value measurements and our related valuation methodologies, see Note 1 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Note 21 – Fair Value Measurements for more information.

ENTERPRISE RISK MANAGEMENT

Other sections of this report on Form 10-K include discussion of market risk and risk factors. Risk management is overseen by the Company’s Chief Risk Officer, who reports directly to the CEO. This position oversees risk management policy, credit, compliance, and information security. Enterprise risk assessments are brought to the Company’s Enterprise Risk Management Committee, and then are reported to the Board’s Risk Management and Capital Committee. The high level corporate risk assessment focuses on the following material business risks: credit risk, interest rate risk, price risk, liquidity risk, operational risk, compliance risk, strategic risk, and reputation risk, with the credit risk category having the highest weighting. Based on management's recent review, all risks were within corporate appetites. For all material business risks, residual risk was viewed as medium/low to medium due to mitigating controls functioning in the Company.

LIBOR TRANSITION

The Company’s use of LIBOR based instruments and the industry-wide transition program off of LIBOR are discussed in Item 1 (“Business”) and Item 1-A (“Risk Factors”) of this report. The Company has in excess of $5 billion in notional balances of LIBOR based instruments related primarily to its commercial banking operations. These include loans priced off of LIBOR, as well as interest rate swap contacts including customer, dealer, and risk participation agreements.

The Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) presently intends to continue publishing most LIBOR indices through June 2023 for use with legacy instruments contracted in 2021 or before. The Company continues to develop and execute plans to transition instruments associated with LIBOR to alternative reference rates. The Company has approved the use of Term SOFR as the lead base case index to replace LIBOR for pricing of new contracts starting in 2022, with Daily Simple SOFR as an alternate. The Company continues to monitor additional index rates as they become available or are requested by customers or other counterparties.

CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITY UPDATE

Our Commitment to Environmental, Social, Governance (ESG) & Corporate Responsibility

Berkshire is committed to purpose-driven, community-centered banking that enhances value for all stakeholders as it pursues its vision of being a high performing, leading socially responsible community bank in New England and beyond. We’re a bank with a purpose: to empower the financial potential of individuals, families and businesses in our communities. We provide an ecosystem of socially responsible financial solutions, actively engage with our communities, and harness the power of our entire business to fuel the economy, promote thriving neighborhoods, foster financial access and success, and invest in a low-carbon future.

At Berkshire, our most important investment for 175 years has been the one we make in each other. We know that where you bank matters and building stronger communities requires a better approach to banking. As such, ESG factors are central to our vision, mission, risk management practices, and Berkshire’s Exciting Strategic Transformation (BEST).

BEST Community Comeback

We believe every community deserves a comeback. That’s why we launched the BEST Community Comeback in 2021, a transformational commitment to empower our stakeholders’ financial potential. The plan focuses on four key areas: fueling small businesses; community financing and philanthropy; financial access and empowerment; and funding environmental sustainability. Through this far-reaching initiative, Berkshire aims to help create more

61

Table of Contents

businesses and jobs, help more families achieve the dream of owning a home, and aid communities in becoming more environmentally efficient and eco-friendly.

Ongoing Pandemic Support

As 2021 continued to present new challenges, we remained committed to serving our customers and communities. We’re guided by our Be FIRST Values of Belonging, Focusing, Inclusion, Respect, Service, and Teamwork. These values fueled our efforts to navigate the pandemic with the goal of supporting the health and economic resiliency of all our stakeholders. During the height of the pandemic, Berkshire created the You FIRST employee assistance fund to help staff impacted by unexpected financial hardships, provided additional paid sick time, flexible work schedules for remote staff, and maintained full pay for those with reduced schedules as a result of the pandemic. Small businesses and consumers were helped with loan forbearances and government assistance programs. We also launched a fund to assist businesses in the LGBTQIA+ and Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) communities.

ESG Program & Business Integration

We’re committed to integrating social, environmental and reputational considerations into all business decision making through our strong foundation of governance systems, including our Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Management Committee, Corporate Responsibility & Culture Committee of our Board of Directors, Diversity Equity & Inclusion Committee, Responsible & Sustainable Business Policy, and a strong collection of Social & Environmental risk management practices. Berkshire engages directly with its stakeholders to share information about the progress we’ve made in our ESG performance, including through our Corporate Responsibility website, corporate annual report, and proxy statement. Additionally, our annual Corporate Responsibility Report, which is aligned with Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (“SASB”) commercial bank disclosure topics, details the Company's ESG efforts and programs.

Ratings, Awards & Recognition

We’re proud to be recognized for our performance with local, regional, national, and international awards as well as leading third party ESG ratings* including:

•MSCI ESG- BBB

•ISS ESG Quality Score - Environment: 3, Social: 1, Governance: 2

•Bloomberg ESG Disclosure- 47.81

•The Company is also rated by Sustainalytics

•Banking Northeast Community Champion Award

•Communitas Award for Leadership in Corporate Social Responsibility

•Bloomberg Gender-Equality Index

•Human Rights Campaign Corporate Equality Index Best Place to Work for LGBTQ+ equality- 100% Score

*As of December 31, 2021

Climate Change

Climate Change poses unprecedented risks and opportunities to the world, including Berkshire, its customers and communities. The impacts which can occur from climate change can directly and/or indirectly impact the Company and its stakeholders. As the transition to a low-carbon economy accelerates, new policy emerges, and market dynamics shift, Berkshire expects that its efforts to manage its environmental footprint, mitigate the risks associated with climate change, and support the transition will allow it to strengthen its positioning as a high performing, leading socially responsible community bank. The Company continues to evolve its practices to reflect its community bank mission as well as the size, scope, and complexity of its operations.

Berkshire is actively managing climate related risks and opportunities at board, management and employee levels. The Company’s Board of Directors Corporate Responsibility & Culture Committee provides oversight to environmental sustainability and Climate Change. All business risks are also integrated into our Enterprise Risk Management program and discussed by other applicable Board Committees including the Risk Management & Capital Committee. Both Committees report into the full board. Berkshire enhanced its governance over material

62

Table of Contents

environmental matters in 2021 by formalizing an Environmental, Social and Governance management committee and completing a formal climate change risk assessment to evaluate the bank’s operations and lending activities for potential exposure to transition and physical risks resulting from climate change.

The results of the risk assessment guide Berkshire’s forward climate management and environmental sustainability strategies to ensure its actively managing these risks and opportunities. It has set targets to help finance the green transition, reduce its Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions and source 100% of its electricity from renewable sources by the end of 2024. As the Company moves further along in its climate journey, it expects to continue to enhance its plans, disclosures, programs and initiatives to reduce its emissions as well as capitalize on the many business opportunities arising from the transition to a lower-carbon economy. Further details on Berkshire’s Climate Change governance, risk management, strategy, metrics & targets and next steps can be found in its most recent Corporate Responsibility Report.

63

Table of Contents