SEC Filing | United Community Banks, Inc.

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ucbi-20210331

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

☒

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

For the Quarterly Period Ended March 31, 2021

☐

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

For the Transition Period from ___________ to ___________

Commission file number 001-35095

UNITED COMMUNITY BANKS, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)


Georgia						58-1807304
(State of incorporation)						(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)


125 Highway 515 East
Blairsville, Georgia						30512
(Address of principal executive offices)						(Zip code)

(706) 781-2265

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)


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

Title of Each Class	Trading Symbol(s)	Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered
Common stock, par value $1 per share	UCBI	Nasdaq Global Select Market
Depositary shares, each representing 1/1000th interest in a share of Series I Non-Cumulative Preferred Stock	UCBIO	Nasdaq Global Select Market

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

Yes ☒ No ☐

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

Yes ☒ No ☐

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

Large accelerated filer

☒

Accelerated filer

☐

Non-accelerated filer

☐

Smaller reporting company

☐

Emerging growth company

☐

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

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

Yes ☐ No ☒

There were 86,778,590 shares of the registrant’s common stock, par value $1 per share, outstanding as of April 30, 2021.

UNITED COMMUNITY BANKS, INC.

FORM 10-Q

INDEX


		Glossary of Defined Terms	3
		Forward Looking Statements	4
PART I - Financial Information
	Item 1.	Financial Statements.

		Consolidated Balance Sheets (unaudited) at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020	5

		Consolidated Statements of Income (unaudited) for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2021 and 2020	6

		Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (unaudited) for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2021 and 2020	7

		Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity (unaudited) for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2021 and 2020	8

		Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (unaudited) for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2021 and 2020	9

		Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements	10

	Item 2.	Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.	32

	Item 3.	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.	50

	Item 4.	Controls and Procedures.	50

PART II - Other Information

	Item 1.	Legal Proceedings.	51
	Item 1A.	Risk Factors.	51




	Item 6.	Exhibits.	51

Glossary of Defined Terms

The following terms may be used throughout this report, including the consolidated financial statements and related notes.


Term						Definition
2020 10-K						Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020
ACL						Allowance for credit losses
AFS						Available-for-sale
ALCO						Asset/Liability Management Committee
AOCI						Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)


ASU						Accounting standards update
Bank						United Community Bank
Board						United Community Banks Inc., Board of Directors
BOLI						Bank-owned life insurance
CARES Act						Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act
CECL						Current expected credit loss model
CET1						Common equity tier 1
CME						Chicago Mercantile Exchange
Company						United Community Banks Incorporated (interchangeable with "United" below)
CVA						Credit valuation adjustments
FASB						Financial Accounting Standards Board
FDIC						Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation
Federal Reserve						Federal Reserve System
FHLB						Federal Home Loan Bank

FTE						Fully taxable equivalent
GAAP						Accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America
GSE						U.S. government-sponsored enterprise
HELOC						Home equity lines of credit
Holding Company						United Community Banks, Inc. on an unconsolidated basis
HTM						Held-to-maturity
LIBOR						London Interbank Offered Rate

MD&A						Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
MBS						Mortgage-backed securities
NOW						Negotiable order of withdrawal
NPA						Nonperforming asset
OCI						Other comprehensive income (loss)
PCD						Purchased credit deteriorated loans
PPP						Paycheck Protection Program
Report						Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q
SBA						United States Small Business Administration
Seaside						Seaside National Bank & Trust
SEC						Securities and Exchange Commission

TDR						Troubled debt restructuring

Three Shores						Three Shores Bancorporation, Inc.
U.S. Treasury						United States Department of the Treasury
United						United Community Banks, Inc. and its direct and indirect subsidiaries
USDA						United States Department of Agriculture

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-looking Statements

This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are neither statements of historical fact nor assurance of future performance and generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “believes”, “expects”, “may”, “will”, “could”, “should”, “projects”, “plans”, “goal”, “targets”, “potential”, “estimates”, “pro forma”, “seeks”, “intends”, or “anticipates”, or similar expressions. Forward-looking statements include discussions of strategy, financial projections, guidance and estimates (including their underlying assumptions), statements regarding plans, objectives, expectations or consequences of various transactions or events, and statements about our future performance, operations, products and services, and should be viewed with caution.

Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and changes in circumstances, many of which are beyond our control, and that are difficult to predict as to timing, extent, likelihood and degree of occurrence, and that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results implied or anticipated by the statements. Important factors that could cause our actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements, in addition to those referenced in Part II, Item 1A of this Report - “Risk Factors” - include, but are not limited to the following:

•negative economic and political conditions that adversely affect the general economy, housing prices, the real estate market, the job market, consumer confidence, the financial condition of our borrowers and consumer spending habits, which may affect, among other things, the levels of non-performing assets, charge-offs and provision expense;

•changes in loan underwriting, credit review or loss policies associated with economic conditions, examination conclusions or regulatory developments, either as they currently exist or as they may be affected by conditions associated with the COVID-19 pandemic;

•the COVID-19 pandemic and its continuing effects on the economic and business environments in which we operate;

•strategic, market, operational, liquidity and interest rate risks associated with our business;

•continuation of historically low interest rates coupled with other potential fluctuations or unanticipated changes in the interest rate environment, including interest rate changes made by the Federal Reserve, the discontinuation of LIBOR as an interest rate benchmark, and cash flow reassessments, may reduce net interest margin and/or the volumes and values of loans made or held as well as the value of other financial assets;

•our lack of geographic diversification and any unanticipated or greater than anticipated adverse conditions in the national or local economies in which we operate;

•our loan concentration in industries or sectors that may experience unanticipated or anticipated adverse conditions greater than other industries or sectors in the national or local economies in which we operate;

•the risks of expansion into new geographic or product markets;

•risks with respect to future mergers or acquisitions, including our ability to successfully expand and complete acquisitions and integrate businesses and operations that we acquire;

•our ability to attract and retain key employees;

•competition from financial institutions and other financial service providers, including non-bank financial technology providers, and our ability to attract customers from other financial institutions;

•losses due to fraudulent and negligent conduct of our customers, third party service providers or employees;

•cybersecurity risks and the vulnerability of our network and online banking portals, and the systems of parties with whom we contract, to unauthorized access, computer viruses, phishing schemes, spam attacks, human error, natural disasters, power loss and other security breaches that could adversely affect our business and financial performance or reputation;

•our reliance on third parties to provide key components of our business infrastructure and services required to operate our business;

•the risk that we may be required to make substantial expenditures to keep pace with regulatory initiatives and the rapid technological changes in the financial services market;

•the availability of and access to capital;

•legislative, regulatory or accounting changes that may adversely affect us;

•volatility in the ACL resulting from the CECL methodology, either alone or as that may be affected by conditions arising out of the COVID-19 pandemic;

•adverse results (including judgments, costs, fines, reputational harm, inability to obtain necessary approvals and/or other negative effects) from current or future litigation, regulatory proceedings, examinations, investigations, or similar matters, or developments related thereto;

•any matter that would cause us to conclude that there was impairment of any asset, including intangible assets, such as goodwill;

•limitations on our ability to declare and pay dividends and other distributions from the Bank to the Holding Company, which could affect Holding Company liquidity, including the ability to pay dividends to shareholders or undertake other capital initiatives, such as share repurchases; and

•other risks and uncertainties disclosed in documents filed or furnished by us with or to the SEC, any of which could cause actual results to differ materially from future results expressed, implied or otherwise anticipated by such forward-looking statements.

We caution readers that the foregoing list of factors is not exclusive, is not necessarily in order of importance and readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Additional factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated by any forward-looking statements also may be found in our Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and Current Reports on Form 8-K filed with the SEC and available at the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov. We do not intend to and, except as required by law, hereby disclaim any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement contained in this Form 10-Q, which speaks only as of the date hereof, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. The financial statements and information contained herein have not been reviewed, or confirmed for accuracy or relevance, by the FDIC or any other regulator.

Part I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1. Financial Statements


UNITED COMMUNITY BANKS, INC.
Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited)


(in thousands, except share data)	March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
ASSETS
Cash and due from banks	$	126,164	$	148,896
Interest-bearing deposits in banks	1,207,949		1,459,723
Cash and cash equivalents	1,334,113		1,608,619
Debt securities available-for-sale	3,744,280		3,224,721
Debt securities held-to-maturity (fair value $586,828 and $437,193, respectively)	587,696		420,361
Loans held for sale at fair value	164,979		105,433
Loans and leases held for investment	11,678,544		11,370,815
Less allowance for credit losses - loans and leases	(126,866)		(137,010)
Loans and leases, net	11,551,678		11,233,805
Premises and equipment, net	216,752		218,489
Bank owned life insurance	202,817		201,969
Accrued interest receivable	46,278		47,672
Net deferred tax asset	39,338		38,411
Derivative financial instruments	63,897		86,666
Goodwill and other intangible assets, net	380,838		381,823
Other assets	224,242		226,405
Total assets	$	18,556,908	$	17,794,374
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Liabilities:
Deposits:
Noninterest-bearing demand	$	6,058,439	$	5,390,291



Interest-bearing deposits	9,934,781		9,842,067


Total deposits	15,993,220		15,232,358


Long-term debt	311,591		326,956
Derivative financial instruments	33,455		29,003
Accrued expenses and other liabilities	187,558		198,527
Total liabilities	16,525,824		15,786,844
Shareholders' equity:
Preferred stock, $1 par value: 10,000,000 shares authorized; Series I, $25,000 per share liquidation preference; 4,000 shares issued and outstanding	96,422		96,422
Common stock, $1 par value: 150,000,000 shares authorized; 86,776,508 and 86,675,279 shares issued and outstanding, respectively	86,777		86,675
Common stock issuable: 565,904 and 600,834 shares, respectively	10,485		10,855
Capital surplus	1,640,583		1,638,999
Retained earnings	192,185		136,869
Accumulated other comprehensive income	4,632		37,710
Total shareholders' equity	2,031,084		2,007,530
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	$	18,556,908	$	17,794,374

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements (unaudited).


UNITED COMMUNITY BANKS, INC.
Consolidated Statements of Income (Unaudited)


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

Interest revenue:
Loans, including fees		$	125,726	$	118,063
Investment securities, including tax exempt of $2,150 and $1,523, respectively		15,448		17,394
Deposits in banks and short-term investments		368		1,090
Total interest revenue		141,542		136,547

Interest expense:






Deposits		5,219		15,075
Short-term borrowings		—		1
Federal Home Loan Bank advances		2		1
Long-term debt		4,257		2,864
Total interest expense		9,478		17,941
Net interest revenue		132,064		118,606
(Release of) provision for credit losses		(12,281)		22,191
Net interest revenue after provision for credit losses		144,345		96,415

Noninterest income:
Service charges and fees		7,570		8,638
Mortgage loan gains and other related fees		22,572		8,310
Wealth management fees		3,505		1,640
Gains from sales of other loans, net		1,030		1,674

Other		10,028		5,552
Total noninterest income		44,705		25,814
Total revenue		189,050		122,229

Noninterest expenses:
Salaries and employee benefits		60,585		51,358
Communications and equipment		7,203		5,946
Occupancy		6,956		5,714
Advertising and public relations		1,199		1,274
Postage, printing and supplies		1,822		1,670
Professional fees		4,234		4,097
Lending and loan servicing expense		2,877		2,293
Outside services - electronic banking		2,218		1,832
FDIC assessments and other regulatory charges		1,896		1,484
Amortization of intangibles		985		1,040
Merger-related and other charges		1,543		808
Other		3,676		4,022
Total noninterest expenses		95,194		81,538
Net income before income taxes		93,856		40,691
Income tax expense		20,150		8,807
Net income		$	73,706	$	31,884

Net income available to common shareholders		$	71,525	$	31,641

Net income per common share:
Basic		$	0.82	$	0.40
Diluted		0.82		0.40
Weighted average common shares outstanding:
Basic		87,322		79,340
Diluted		87,466		79,446

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements (unaudited).


UNITED COMMUNITY BANKS, INC.
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Unaudited)


(in thousands)	Three Months Ended March 31,
		Before-tax Amount		Tax (Expense) Benefit		Net of Tax Amount
2021
Net income		$	93,856	$	(20,150)	$	73,706
Other comprehensive income:

Unrealized losses on available-for-sale securities		(50,235)		12,550		(37,685)



Derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges:
Unrealized holding gains on derivatives arising during the period		5,783		(1,477)		4,306
Reclassification of losses on derivative instruments realized in net income		144		(37)		107
Net cash flow hedge activity		5,927		(1,514)		4,413


Amortization of prior service cost and actuarial losses included in net periodic pension cost for defined benefit pension plan		261		(67)		194


Total other comprehensive loss		(44,047)		10,969		(33,078)
Comprehensive income		$	49,809	$	(9,181)	$	40,628

2020
Net income		$	40,691	$	(8,807)	$	31,884
Other comprehensive income:

Unrealized gains on available-for-sale securities		13,685		(3,433)		10,252


Amortization of losses included in net income on available-for-sale securities transferred to held-to-maturity		83		(20)		63





Amortization of prior service cost and actuarial losses included in net periodic pension cost for defined benefit pension plan		214		(54)		160


Total other comprehensive income		13,982		(3,507)		10,475
Comprehensive income		$	54,673	$	(12,314)	$	42,359

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements (unaudited).


UNITED COMMUNITY BANKS, INC.
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity (Unaudited)
(in thousands except share data)


	Shares of Common Stock	Preferred Stock		Common Stock		Common Stock Issuable		Capital Surplus		Retained Earnings		Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)		Total

Balance at December 31, 2020	86,675,279	$	96,422	$	86,675	$	10,855	$	1,638,999	$	136,869	$	37,710	$	2,007,530
Net income										73,706				73,706
Other comprehensive loss												(33,078)		(33,078)

Preferred stock dividends										(1,719)				(1,719)
Common stock dividends ($0.19 per share)										(16,671)				(16,671)

Impact of equity-based compensation awards	35,170			36		576		404						1,016
Impact of other United sponsored equity plans	66,059			66		(946)		1,180						300
Balance at March 31, 2021	86,776,508	$	96,422	$	86,777	$	10,485	$	1,640,583	$	192,185	$	4,632	$	2,031,084

Balance at December 31, 2019	79,013,729	$	—	$	79,014	$	11,491	$	1,496,641	$	40,152	$	8,394	$	1,635,692
Net income										31,884				31,884
Other comprehensive income												10,475		10,475
Purchases of common stock	(826,482)			(827)				(19,955)						(20,782)
Common stock dividends ($0.18 per share)										(14,301)				(14,301)
Impact of equity-based compensation awards	24,005			24		665		1,315						2,004
Impact of other United sponsored equity plans	72,292			73		(1,622)		718						(831)
Adoption of new accounting standard										(3,529)				(3,529)
Balance at March 31, 2020	78,283,544	$	—	$	78,284	$	10,534	$	1,478,719	$	54,206	$	18,869	$	1,640,612

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements (unaudited).


UNITED COMMUNITY BANKS, INC.
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited)


	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)	2021		2020
Operating activities:
Net income	$	73,706	$	31,884
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:
Depreciation, amortization and accretion, net	(681)		1,894
(Release of) provision for credit losses	(12,281)		22,191
Stock based compensation	1,507		2,492
Deferred income tax expense	9,172		1,292

Gains from sales of other loans, net	(1,030)		(1,674)

Changes in assets and liabilities:
Other assets and accrued interest receivable	15,165		(45,851)
Accrued expenses and other liabilities	8,652		8,456
Loans held for sale	(59,546)		(31,475)
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	34,664		(10,791)

Investing activities:
Debt securities held-to-maturity:
Proceeds from maturities and calls	24,629		9,085
Purchases	(192,541)		(15,989)
Debt securities available-for-sale:
Proceeds from sales	—		1,000
Proceeds from maturities and calls	184,352		105,247
Purchases	(759,874)		(70,075)
Net increase in loans	(292,603)		(110,222)
Equity investments, outflows	(5,753)		(4,330)
Equity investments, inflows	4,984		—

Proceeds from sales of premises and equipment	287		102
Purchases of premises and equipment	(2,490)		(2,596)

Proceeds from sale of other real estate	1,308		63
Other investing activities	430		2,730
Net cash used in investing activities	(1,037,271)		(84,985)

Financing activities:
Net increase in deposits	761,630		137,783

Repayment of long-term debt	(15,632)		—
Proceeds from FHLB advances	5,000		5,000
Repayment of FHLB advances	(5,000)		(5,000)

Proceeds from issuance of common stock for dividend reinvestment and employee benefit plans	248		199

Cash paid for shares withheld to cover payroll taxes upon vesting of restricted stock units	(574)		(1,674)

Repurchase of common stock	—		(20,782)
Cash dividends on common stock	(15,852)		(14,454)
Cash dividends on preferred stock	(1,719)		—
Net cash provided by financing activities	728,101		101,072

Net change in cash and cash equivalents	(274,506)		5,296

Cash and cash equivalents, at beginning of period	1,608,619		515,206

Cash and cash equivalents, at end of period	$	1,334,113	$	520,502

Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:


Significant non-cash investing and financing transactions:
Unsettled government guaranteed loan sales	$	—	$	485
Transfers of loans to foreclosed properties	1,059		127

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements (unaudited).

UNITED COMMUNITY BANKS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 1 – Accounting Policies

United’s accounting and financial reporting policies conform to GAAP and reporting guidelines of banking regulatory authorities. The accompanying interim consolidated financial statements have not been audited. All material intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated. A more detailed description of United’s accounting policies is included in its 2020 10-K.

In management’s opinion, all accounting adjustments necessary to accurately reflect the financial position and results of operations on the accompanying financial statements have been made. These adjustments are normal and recurring accruals considered necessary for a fair and accurate presentation. The results for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of results for the full year or any other interim periods. The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related notes appearing in United’s 2020 10-K.

Note 2 –Accounting Standards Updates and Recently Adopted Standards

Recently Adopted Standards

In October 2020, the FASB issued ASU No. 2020-10, Codification Improvements. In addition to consolidating existing disclosure guidance into a single codification section to reduce the likelihood of a required disclosure being missed, this update clarifies the application of select guidance in cases where the original guidance may have been unclear. United adopted this update as of January 1, 2021, with no material impact on the consolidated financial statements.

In October 2020, the FASB issued ASU No. 2020-08, Codification Improvements to Subtopic 310-20, Receivables—Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs. This update clarifies that an entity should reevaluate whether a callable debt security meets the criteria to adjust the amortization period of any related premium at each reporting period. United adopted this update as of January 1, 2021, with no material impact on the consolidated financial statements.

In January 2020, the FASB issued ASU No. 2020-01, Investments—Equity Securities (Topic 321), Investments—Equity Method and Joint Ventures (Topic 323), and Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815)—Clarifying the Interactions between Topic 321, Topic 323, and Topic 815 (a consensus of the Emerging Issues Task Force). This update clarifies whether an entity should consider observable transactions that require it to either apply or discontinue the equity method of accounting for the purposes of applying the measurement alternative and how to account for certain forward contracts and purchased options to purchase securities. United adopted this update as of January 1, 2021, with no material impact on the consolidated financial statements.

In December 2019, the FASB issued ASU No. 2019-12, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes. This update removes several exceptions related to intraperiod tax allocation when there is a loss from continuing operations and income from other items, foreign subsidiaries becoming equity method investments and vice versa, and calculating income taxes in an interim period when a year-to-date loss exceeds the anticipated loss for the year. The guidance also amends requirements related to franchise tax that is partially based on income, a step up in the tax basis of goodwill, allocation of consolidated tax expense to a legal entity not subject to tax in its separate financial statements, the effects of enacted changes in tax laws and other minor codification improvements regarding employee stock ownership plans and investments in qualified affordable housing projects. United adopted this update as of January 1, 2021, with no material impact on the consolidated financial statements.

In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU No. 2018-14, Compensation - Retirement Benefits - Defined Benefit Plans - General (Subtopic 715-20): Disclosure Framework - Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Defined Benefit Plans. The update removes disclosures that are no longer considered cost beneficial, clarifies specific requirements of disclosures, and adds disclosure requirements identified as relevant. United adopted this update as of January 1, 2021, with no material impact on the consolidated financial statements.

UNITED COMMUNITY BANKS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 3 – Investment Securities

The amortized cost basis, unrealized gains and losses and fair value of HTM debt securities as of the dates indicated are as follows (in thousands).


	Amortized Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized Losses		Fair Value
As of March 31, 2021
U.S. Government agencies & GSEs	$	10,535	$	—	$	590	$	9,945
State and political subdivisions	238,813		4,670		5,655		237,828
Residential MBS, Agency & GSEs	135,156		3,923		1,231		137,848

Commercial MBS, Agency & GSEs	188,192		2,566		4,412		186,346

Supranational entities	15,000		—		139		14,861
Total	$	587,696	$	11,159	$	12,027	$	586,828

As of December 31, 2020
U.S. Government agencies & GSEs	$	10,575	$	26	$	11	$	10,590
State and political subdivisions	197,723		7,658		242		205,139
Residential MBS, Agency & GSEs	113,400		4,774		1		118,173

Commercial MBS, Agency & GSEs	98,663		4,874		246		103,291

Total	$	420,361	$	17,332	$	500	$	437,193

The amortized cost basis, unrealized gains and losses, and fair value of AFS debt securities as of the dates indicated are presented below (in thousands).


	Amortized Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized Losses		Fair Value
As of March 31, 2021
U.S. Treasuries	$	123,817	$	3,752	$	—	$	127,569
U.S. Government agencies & GSEs	176,847		642		3,967		173,522
State and political subdivisions	280,171		16,782		2,559		294,394
Residential MBS, Agency & GSEs	1,493,149		24,604		15,928		1,501,825
Residential MBS, Non-agency	155,370		5,446		6		160,810
Commercial MBS, Agency & GSEs	728,584		5,265		15,555		718,294
Commercial MBS, Non-agency	15,337		1,427		—		16,764
Corporate bonds	69,828		1,076		294		70,610
Asset-backed securities	678,802		2,313		623		680,492
Total	$	3,721,905	$	61,307	$	38,932	$	3,744,280

As of December 31, 2020
U.S. Treasuries	$	123,677	$	4,395	$	—	$	128,072
U.S. Government agencies & GSEs	152,596		701		325		152,972
State and political subdivisions	253,630		20,891		49		274,472
Residential MBS, Agency & GSEs	1,275,551		29,107		766		1,303,892
Residential MBS, Non-agency	174,322		7,499		128		181,693
Commercial MBS, Agency & GSEs	524,852		8,013		597		532,268
Commercial MBS, Non-agency	15,350		1,513		—		16,863
Corporate bonds	70,057		1,711		1		71,767
Asset-backed securities	562,076		1,278		632		562,722
Total	$	3,152,111	$	75,108	$	2,498	$	3,224,721

Securities with a carrying value of $1.23 billion and $1.11 billion were pledged, primarily to secure public deposits, at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively.

UNITED COMMUNITY BANKS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

The following table summarizes HTM debt securities in an unrealized loss position as of the dates indicated (in thousands).


	Less than 12 Months				12 Months or More				Total
	Fair Value		Unrealized Loss		Fair Value		Unrealized Loss		Fair Value		Unrealized Loss
As of March 31, 2021
U.S. Government agencies & GSEs	$	9,945	$	590	$	—	$	—	$	9,945	$	590
State and political subdivisions	152,811		5,655		—		—		152,811		5,655
Residential MBS, Agency & GSEs	39,628		1,231		—		—		39,628		1,231

Commercial MBS, Agency & GSEs	104,848		4,412		—		—		104,848		4,412

Supranational entities	14,861		139		—		—		14,861		139
Total unrealized loss position	$	322,093	$	12,027	$	—	$	—	$	322,093	$	12,027

As of December 31, 2020
U.S. Government agencies & GSEs	$	4,677	$	11	$	—	$	—	$	4,677	$	11
State and political subdivisions	14,870		242		—		—		14,870		242
Residential MBS, Agency & GSEs	999		1		—		—		999		1

Commercial MBS, Agency & GSEs	24,956		236		1,352		10		26,308		246

Total unrealized loss position	$	45,502	$	490	$	1,352	$	10	$	46,854	$	500

The following table summarizes AFS debt securities in an unrealized loss position as of the dates indicated (in thousands).


	Less than 12 Months				12 Months or More				Total
	Fair Value		Unrealized Loss		Fair Value		Unrealized Loss		Fair Value		Unrealized Loss
As of March 31, 2021

U.S. Government agencies & GSEs	$	116,612	$	3,967	$	—	$	—	$	116,612	$	3,967
State and political subdivisions	57,585		2,559		—		—		57,585		2,559
Residential MBS, Agency & GSEs	699,029		15,928		—		—		699,029		15,928
Residential MBS, Non-agency	841		1		2,454		5		3,295		6
Commercial MBS, Agency & GSEs	434,542		15,555		—		—		434,542		15,555

Corporate bonds	19,554		294		—		—		19,554		294
Asset-backed securities	153,436		293		48,142		330		201,578		623
Total unrealized loss position	$	1,481,599	$	38,597	$	50,596	$	335	$	1,532,195	$	38,932

As of December 31, 2020

U.S. Government agencies & GSEs	$	27,952	$	324	$	607	$	1	$	28,559	$	325
State and political subdivisions	9,402		49		—		—		9,402		49
Residential MBS, Agency & GSEs	232,199		766		—		—		232,199		766
Residential MBS, Non-agency	2,331		128		—		—		2,331		128
Commercial MBS, Agency & GSEs	89,918		597		—		—		89,918		597

Corporate bonds	1,410		1		—		—		1,410		1
Asset-backed securities	87,305		28		53,587		604		140,892		632
Total unrealized loss position	$	450,517	$	1,893	$	54,194	$	605	$	504,711	$	2,498

At March 31, 2021, there were 213 AFS debt securities and 60 HTM debt securities that were in an unrealized loss position. United does not intend to sell nor does it believe it will be required to sell securities in an unrealized loss position prior to the recovery of their amortized cost basis. Unrealized losses at March 31, 2021 were primarily attributable to changes in interest rates.

At March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, calculated credit losses and, thus, the related ACL on HTM debt securities were not material due to the high credit quality of the portfolio, which included securities issued or guaranteed by U.S. Government agencies, GSEs, high credit quality municipalities and supranational entities. As a result, no ACL was recorded on the HTM portfolio at March 31, 2021 or December 31, 2020. In addition, based on the assessments performed at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, there was no ACL required related to the AFS portfolio.

UNITED COMMUNITY BANKS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

The following table presents accrued interest receivable for the periods indicated on HTM and AFS debt securities (in thousands), which was excluded from the estimate of credit losses.


	Accrued Interest Receivable
Debt Securities:	March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
HTM	$	2,242	$	1,784
AFS	9,524		9,114

The amortized cost and fair value of AFS and HTM debt securities at March 31, 2021, by contractual maturity, are presented in the following table (in thousands). Expected maturities may differ from contractual maturities because issuers and borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations.


	AFS				HTM
	Amortized Cost		Fair Value		Amortized Cost		Fair Value
Within 1 year:
U.S. Treasuries	$	44,901	$	45,525	$	—	$	—
U.S. Government agencies & GSEs	281		281		—		—
State and political subdivisions	20,010		20,120		1,700		1,732
Corporate bonds	11,633		11,722		—		—

	76,825		77,648		1,700		1,732
1 to 5 years:
U.S. Treasuries	78,916		82,044		—		—
U.S. Government agencies & GSEs	13,986		13,969		—		—
State and political subdivisions	41,787		44,194		14,504		15,899
Corporate bonds	41,532		42,211		—		—

	176,221		182,418		14,504		15,899
5 to 10 years:

U.S. Government agencies & GSEs	103,975		101,071		—		—
State and political subdivisions	90,926		94,548		18,964		19,654
Corporate bonds	15,886		15,794		—		—
Supranational entities	—		—		15,000		14,861
	210,787		211,413		33,964		34,515
More than 10 years:
U.S. Government agencies & GSEs	58,605		58,201		10,535		9,945
State and political subdivisions	127,448		135,532		203,645		200,543
Corporate bonds	777		883		—		—

	186,830		194,616		214,180		210,488
Debt securities not due at a single maturity date:
Asset-backed securities	678,802		680,492		—		—
Residential MBS	1,648,519		1,662,635		135,156		137,848
Commercial MBS	743,921		735,058		188,192		186,346

Total	$	3,721,905	$	3,744,280	$	587,696	$	586,828

UNITED COMMUNITY BANKS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 4 – Loans and Leases and Allowance for Credit Losses

Major classifications of the loan and lease portfolio (collectively referred to as the “loan portfolio” or “loans”) are summarized as of the dates indicated as follows (in thousands).


	March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
Owner occupied commercial real estate	$	2,107,153	$	2,090,443
Income producing commercial real estate	2,598,482		2,540,750
Commercial & industrial (1)	2,643,279		2,498,560
Commercial construction	960,153		967,305
Equipment financing	912,650		863,830
Total commercial	9,221,717		8,960,888
Residential mortgage	1,362,088		1,284,920
HELOC	679,094		697,117
Residential construction	271,600		281,430
Consumer	144,045		146,460


Total loans	11,678,544		11,370,815

Less allowance for credit losses - loans	(126,866)		(137,010)

Loans, net	$	11,551,678	$	11,233,805

(1) Commercial and industrial loans as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 included $883 million and $646 million of PPP loans, respectively.

Accrued interest receivable related to loans totaled $33.3 million and $35.5 million at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively, and was reported in accrued interest receivable on the consolidated balance sheets.

At March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the loan portfolio was subject to blanket pledges on certain qualifying loan types with the FHLB and FRB to secure contingent funding sources.

The following table presents loans held for investment sold for the periods indicated (in thousands). The gains and losses on these loan sales were included in noninterest income on the consolidated statements of income.


	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2021		2020
Guaranteed portion of SBA/USDA loans	$	11,345	$	4,034
Equipment financing receivables	1,059		22,217
Total	$	12,404	$	26,251

At March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, equipment financing assets included leases of $37.6 million and $36.8 million, respectively. The components of the net investment in leases, which included both sales-type and direct financing, are presented below (in thousands).


	March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
Minimum future lease payments receivable	$	39,720	$	38,934
Estimated residual value of leased equipment	3,433		3,263
Initial direct costs	686		672
Security deposits	(739)		(727)
Purchase accounting premium	93		117
Unearned income	(5,575)		(5,457)
Net investment in leases	$	37,618	$	36,802

UNITED COMMUNITY BANKS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Minimum future lease payments expected to be received from equipment financing lease contracts as of March 31, 2021 were as follows (in thousands):


Year
Remainder of 2021	$	11,794
2022	12,744
2023	8,597
2024	4,311
2025	2,091
Thereafter	183
Total	$	39,720

Nonaccrual and Past Due Loans

The following table presents the aging of the amortized cost basis in loans by aging category and accrual status as of the dates indicated (in thousands). Past due status is based on contractual terms of the loan. The accrual of interest is generally discontinued when a loan becomes 90 days past due. Deferrals related to the COVID-19 crisis are not reported as past due during the deferral period.


	Accruing
	Current Loans		Loans Past Due
			30 - 59 Days		60 - 89 Days		> 90 Days		Nonaccrual Loans		Total Loans
As of March 31, 2021
Owner occupied commercial real estate	$	2,097,553	$	540	$	1,152	$	—	$	7,908	$	2,107,153
Income producing commercial real estate	2,584,511		231		—		—		13,740		2,598,482
Commercial & industrial	2,628,764		638		13		—		13,864		2,643,279
Commercial construction	957,435		734		—		—		1,984		960,153
Equipment financing	908,694		1,470		315		—		2,171		912,650
Total commercial	9,176,957		3,613		1,480		—		39,667		9,221,717
Residential mortgage	1,345,427		2,547		64		—		14,050		1,362,088
HELOC	675,545		1,632		210		—		1,707		679,094
Residential construction	270,769		509		—		—		322		271,600
Consumer	143,669		188		34		—		154		144,045
Total loans	$	11,612,367	$	8,489	$	1,788	$	—	$	55,900	$	11,678,544

As of December 31, 2020
Owner occupied commercial real estate	$	2,079,845	$	2,013	$	3	$	—	$	8,582	$	2,090,443
Income producing commercial real estate	2,522,743		1,608		1,250		—		15,149		2,540,750
Commercial & industrial	2,480,483		1,176		267		—		16,634		2,498,560
Commercial construction	964,947		231		382		—		1,745		967,305
Equipment financing	856,985		2,431		1,009		—		3,405		863,830
Total commercial	8,905,003		7,459		2,911		—		45,515		8,960,888
Residential mortgage	1,265,019		5,549		1,494		—		12,858		1,284,920
HELOC	692,504		1,942		184		—		2,487		697,117
Residential construction	280,551		365		—		—		514		281,430
Consumer	145,770		429		36		—		225		146,460
Total loans	$	11,288,847	$	15,744	$	4,625	$	—	$	61,599	$	11,370,815

UNITED COMMUNITY BANKS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

The following table presents nonaccrual loans by loan class for the periods indicated (in thousands).


	Nonaccrual Loans
	March 31, 2021						December 31, 2020
	With no allowance		With an allowance		Total		With no allowance		With an allowance		Total
Owner occupied commercial real estate	$	4,202	$	3,706	$	7,908	$	6,614	$	1,968	$	8,582
Income producing commercial real estate	8,264		5,476		13,740		10,008		5,141		15,149
Commercial & industrial	6,376		7,488		13,864		2,004		14,630		16,634
Commercial construction	1,480		504		1,984		1,339		406		1,745
Equipment financing	19		2,152		2,171		156		3,249		3,405
Total commercial	20,341		19,326		39,667		20,121		25,394		45,515
Residential mortgage	3,226		10,824		14,050		1,855		11,003		12,858
HELOC	45		1,662		1,707		1,329		1,158		2,487
Residential construction	—		322		322		274		240		514
Consumer	2		152		154		181		44		225
Total	$	23,614	$	32,286	$	55,900	$	23,760	$	37,839	$	61,599

Risk Ratings

United categorizes commercial loans, with the exception of equipment financing receivables, into risk categories based on relevant information about the ability of borrowers to service their debt such as: current financial information, historical payment experience, credit documentation, public information, and current industry and economic trends, among other factors. United analyzes loans individually by classifying the loans as to credit risk. This analysis is performed on a continual basis. United uses the following definitions for its risk ratings:

Pass. Loans in this category are considered to have a low probability of default and do not meet the criteria of the risk categories below.

Watch. Loans in this category are presently protected from apparent loss; however, weaknesses exist that could cause future impairment, including the deterioration of financial ratios, past due status and questionable management capabilities. These loans require more than the ordinary amount of supervision. Collateral values generally afford adequate coverage, but may not be immediately marketable.

Substandard. These loans are inadequately protected by the current net worth and paying capacity of the obligor or by the collateral pledged. Specific and well-defined weaknesses exist that may include poor liquidity and deterioration of financial ratios. The loan may be past due and related deposit accounts experiencing overdrafts. There is the distinct possibility that United will sustain some loss if deficiencies are not corrected. If possible, immediate corrective action is taken.

Doubtful. Specific weaknesses characterized as Substandard that are severe enough to make collection in full highly questionable and improbable. There is no reliable secondary source of full repayment.

Loss. Loans categorized as Loss have the same characteristics as Doubtful; however, probability of loss is certain. Loans classified as Loss are charged off.

Equipment Financing Receivables and Consumer Purpose Loans. United applies a pass / fail grading system to all equipment financing receivables and consumer purpose loans. Under this system, loans that are on nonaccrual status, become past due 90 days, or are in bankruptcy are classified as “fail” and all other loans are classified as “pass”. For reporting purposes, loans in these categories that are classified as “fail” are reported as substandard and all other loans are reported as pass.

UNITED COMMUNITY BANKS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Based on the most recent analysis performed, the amortized cost of loans by risk category by vintage year as of the date indicated is as follows (in thousands).



	Term Loans by Origination Year												Revolvers		Revolvers converted to term loans		Total
As of March 31, 2021	2021		2020		2019		2018		2017		Prior
Pass
Owner occupied commercial real estate	$	179,476	$	701,135	$	317,755	$	199,511	$	191,124	$	350,036	$	46,178	$	9,426	$	1,994,641
Income producing commercial real estate	182,686		804,728		368,588		338,718		236,773		327,673		26,325		12,336		2,297,827
Commercial & industrial	696,983		792,547		227,628		216,428		81,554		114,095		445,382		3,877		2,578,494
Commercial construction	112,225		297,204		191,433		168,966		44,357		20,829		14,333		4,058		853,405
Equipment financing	139,648		376,918		247,084		107,756		32,220		6,339		—		—		909,965
Total commercial	1,311,018		2,972,532		1,352,488		1,031,379		586,028		818,972		532,218		29,697		8,634,332
Residential mortgage	217,716		444,751		159,000		108,791		100,023		309,592		16		5,032		1,344,921
HELOC	—		—		—		—		—		—		660,070		16,513		676,583
Residential construction	57,904		178,711		11,751		4,301		4,257		14,072		—		59		271,055
Consumer	16,880		44,170		21,069		11,063		3,378		3,979		42,517		681		143,737
	1,603,518		3,640,164		1,544,308		1,155,534		693,686		1,146,615		1,234,821		51,982		11,070,628
Watch
Owner occupied commercial real estate	7,364		7,861		18,539		4,203		3,681		16,321		100		—		58,069
Income producing commercial real estate	11,606		28,811		59,580		51,067		15,200		37,827		—		1,651		205,742
Commercial & industrial	145		2,463		14,537		542		1,387		490		7,758		224		27,546
Commercial construction	539		19,080		12,828		28,164		23,801		481		—		—		84,893
Equipment financing	—		—		—		—		—		—		—		—		—
Total commercial	19,654		58,215		105,484		83,976		44,069		55,119		7,858		1,875		376,250
Residential mortgage	—		—		—		—		—		—		—		—		—
HELOC	—		—		—		—		—		—		—		—		—
Residential construction	—		—		—		—		—		—		—		—		—
Consumer	—		—		—		—		—		—		—		—		—
	19,654		58,215		105,484		83,976		44,069		55,119		7,858		1,875		376,250
Substandard
Owner occupied commercial real estate	2,615		12,137		10,231		8,289		5,257		12,508		2,381		1,025		54,443
Income producing commercial real estate	6,259		40,630		7,590		2,114		5,588		32,639		—		93		94,913
Commercial & industrial	5,981		1,281		8,466		6,486		2,060		7,432		4,935		598		37,239
Commercial construction	676		2,804		645		13,699		335		2,689		—		1,007		21,855
Equipment financing	—		514		1,107		655		254		155		—		—		2,685
Total commercial	15,531		57,366		28,039		31,243		13,494		55,423		7,316		2,723		211,135
Residential mortgage	161		1,911		2,366		3,821		1,450		6,659		—		799		17,167
HELOC	—		—		—		—		—		—		79		2,432		2,511
Residential construction	—		71		35		54		3		382		—		—		545
Consumer	—		—		76		46		45		117		—		24		308
	15,692		59,348		30,516		35,164		14,992		62,581		7,395		5,978		231,666

Total	$	1,638,864	$	3,757,727	$	1,680,308	$	1,274,674	$	752,747	$	1,264,315	$	1,250,074	$	59,835	$	11,678,544

UNITED COMMUNITY BANKS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)


	Term Loans by Origination Year												Revolvers		Revolvers converted to term loans		Total
As of December 31, 2020	2020		2019		2018		2017		2016		Prior
Pass
Owner occupied commercial real estate	$	707,501	$	368,615	$	231,316	$	197,778	$	201,362	$	229,667	$	56,273	$	9,072	$	2,001,584
Income producing commercial real estate	815,799		376,911		361,539		277,769		206,068		198,080		28,542		12,128		2,276,836
Commercial & industrial	1,092,767		287,857		263,439		115,790		92,968		58,359		515,593		3,777		2,430,550
Commercial construction	314,154		217,643		226,308		53,708		30,812		21,985		20,278		3,947		888,835
Equipment financing	413,653		270,664		125,869		39,982		9,404		445		—		—		860,017
Total commercial	3,343,874		1,521,690		1,208,471		685,027		540,614		508,536		620,686		28,924		8,457,822
Residential mortgage	468,945		195,213		125,492		120,944		122,013		230,771		18		5,393		1,268,789
HELOC	—		—		—		—		—		—		675,878		17,581		693,459
Residential construction	225,727		30,646		4,026		4,544		3,172		12,546		—		64		280,725
Consumer	54,997		25,528		14,206		4,531		3,595		1,677		41,445		76		146,055
	4,093,543		1,773,077		1,352,195		815,046		669,394		753,530		1,338,027		52,038		10,846,850
Watch
Owner occupied commercial real estate	8,759		4,088		4,221		10,025		11,138		4,728		100		—		43,059
Income producing commercial real estate	35,471		42,831		39,954		13,238		24,164		11,337		—		1,681		168,676
Commercial & industrial	1,451		16,315		2,176		630		459		17		6,464		—		27,512
Commercial construction	21,366		272		816		23,292		11,775		477		—		—		57,998
Equipment financing	—		—		—		—		—		—		—		—		—
Total commercial	67,047		63,506		47,167		47,185		47,536		16,559		6,564		1,681		297,245
Residential mortgage	—		—		—		—		—		—		—		—		—
HELOC	—		—		—		—		—		—		—		—		—
Residential construction	—		—		—		—		—		—		—		—		—
Consumer	—		—		—		—		—		—		—		—		—
	67,047		63,506		47,167		47,185		47,536		16,559		6,564		1,681		297,245
Substandard
Owner occupied commercial real estate	6,586		10,473		7,596		3,717		6,753		8,473		1,528		674		45,800
Income producing commercial real estate	45,125		8,940		2,179		5,034		31,211		2,652		—		97		95,238
Commercial & industrial	1,545		5,536		6,193		1,684		1,292		1,485		22,170		593		40,498
Commercial construction	2,466		735		13,741		340		1,931		250		—		1,009		20,472
Equipment financing	631		1,392		1,371		306		96		17		—		—		3,813
Total commercial	56,353		27,076		31,080		11,081		41,283		12,877		23,698		2,373		205,821
Residential mortgage	2,049		2,106		3,174		1,369		679		5,860		—		894		16,131
HELOC	—		—		—		—		—		—		265		3,393		3,658
Residential construction	106		37		54		4		124		380		—		—		705
Consumer	—		97		49		60		78		98		—		23		405
	58,508		29,316		34,357		12,514		42,164		19,215		23,963		6,683		226,720

Total	$	4,219,098	$	1,865,899	$	1,433,719	$	874,745	$	759,094	$	789,304	$	1,368,554	$	60,402	$	11,370,815

Troubled Debt Restructurings and Other Modifications

As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, United had TDRs totaling $59.3 million and $61.6 million, respectively. As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, United had remaining deferrals related to the COVID-19 pandemic of approximately $48.1 million and $70.7 million, respectively, which generally represented payment deferrals for up to 90 days. To the extent that these deferrals qualified under either the CARES Act or interagency guidance, they were not considered new TDRs.

UNITED COMMUNITY BANKS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Loans modified under the terms of a TDR during the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 are presented in the following table. In addition, the table presents loans modified under the terms of a TDR that defaulted (became 90 days or more delinquent or otherwise in default of modified terms) during the periods presented and were initially restructured within one year prior to default (dollars in thousands).


	New TDRs
			Post-Modification Amortized Cost by Type of Modification												TDRs Modified Within the Previous Twelve Months That Have Subsequently Defaulted
	Number of Contracts	Rate Reduction			Structure			Other			Total			Number of Contracts		Amortized Cost
Three Months Ended March 31, 2021
Owner occupied commercial real estate	—		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—		—		$	—
Income producing commercial real estate	2		—			—			1,319			1,319			—		—
Commercial & industrial	2		—			—			103			103			1		11
Commercial construction	1		—			309			—			309			—		—
Equipment financing	28		—			2,136			—			2,136			3		62
Total commercial	33		—			2,445			1,422			3,867			4		73
Residential mortgage	1		—			69			—			69			3		413
HELOC	—		—			—			—			—			—		—
Residential construction	—		—			—			—			—			—		—
Consumer	—		—			—			—			—			—		—
Total loans	34		$	—		$	2,514		$	1,422		$	3,936		7		$	486














Three Months Ended March 31, 2020
Owner occupied commercial real estate	1		$	—		$	—		$	990		$	990		—		$	—
Income producing commercial real estate	3		—			67			165			232			—		—
Commercial & industrial	—		—			—			—			—			1		6
Commercial construction	—		—			—			—			—			—		—
Equipment financing	7		—			434			—			434			—		—
Total commercial	11		—			501			1,155			1,656			1		6
Residential mortgage	5		—			278			—			278			—		—
HELOC	—		—			—			—			—			—		—
Residential construction	—		—			—			—			—			—		—
Consumer	2		—			—			11			11			1		3
Total loans	18		$	—		$	779		$	1,166		$	1,945		2		$	9

Allowance for Credit Losses

The ACL for loans represents management’s estimate of life of loan credit losses in the portfolio as of the end of the period. The ACL related to unfunded commitments is included in other liabilities in the consolidated balance sheet.

The following table presents the balance and activity in the ACL by portfolio segment for the periods indicated (in thousands).


	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2021								2020
	Beginning Balance		Charge-Offs		Recoveries		(Release) Provision		Ending Balance		Dec. 31, 2019 Balance		Adoption of CECL		Jan. 1, 2020 Balance		Charge-Offs		Recoveries		(Release) Provision		Ending Balance














Owner occupied commercial real estate	$	20,673	$	—	$	240	$	(1,631)	$	19,282	$	11,404	$	(1,616)	$	9,788	$	(6)	$	1,034	$	184	$	11,000
Income producing commercial real estate	41,737		(1,007)		16		(5,835)		34,911		12,306		(30)		12,276		(411)		141		4,578		16,584
Commercial & industrial	22,019		(2,894)		5,647		(3,022)		21,750		5,266		4,012		9,278		(7,561)		376		8,738		10,831
Commercial construction	10,952		(178)		156		(358)		10,572		9,668		(2,583)		7,085		—		141		2,330		9,556
Equipment financing	16,820		(2,058)		547		1,891		17,200		7,384		5,871		13,255		(1,863)		356		2,990		14,738
Residential mortgage	15,341		(215)		123		(669)		14,580		8,081		1,569		9,650		(284)		275		1,422		11,063
HELOC	8,417		—		73		(1,610)		6,880		4,575		1,919		6,494		(20)		103		310		6,887
Residential construction	764		(10)		70		538		1,362		2,504		(1,771)		733		(22)		34		71		816
Consumer	287		(471)		266		247		329		901		(491)		410		(638)		231		427		430
ACL - loans	137,010		(6,833)		7,138		(10,449)		126,866		62,089		6,880		68,969		(10,805)		2,691		21,050		81,905
ACL - unfunded commitments	10,558		—		—		(1,832)		8,726		3,458		1,871		5,329		—		—		1,141		6,470
Total ACL	$	147,568	$	(6,833)	$	7,138	$	(12,281)	$	135,592	$	65,547	$	8,751	$	74,298	$	(10,805)	$	2,691	$	22,191	$	88,375

At March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, United used a one-year reasonable and supportable forecast period. Expected credit losses were estimated using a regression model for each segment based on historical data from peer banks combined with a third party

UNITED COMMUNITY BANKS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

vendor’s economic forecast to predict the change in credit losses. These results were then combined with a starting value that was based on United’s recent default experience, which was adjusted for select portfolios based on expectations of future performance. At March 31, 2021, the third party vendor’s forecast, which was representative of a baseline scenario, improved significantly from December 31, 2020, including the unemployment rate which has a significant impact on our models and led to the negative provision for loan losses in the first quarter. United adjusted the economic forecast by eliminating the initial spike in unemployment to account for the impact of government stimulus programs, which mitigated some of the negative impact on forecasted losses as the unemployment rate was rising and had the opposite effect as the unemployment rate was improving. In addition, United applied qualitative factors to income producing commercial real estate, owner occupied commercial real estate and commercial construction portfolios to compensate for elevated criticized and classified loan levels.

For periods beyond the reasonable and supportable forecast period of one year, United reverted to historical credit loss information on a straight line basis over two years. For all collateral types excluding residential mortgage, United reverted to through-the-cycle average default rates using peer data from 2000 to 2017. For loans secured by residential mortgages, the peer data was adjusted for changes in lending practices designed to prevent the magnitude of losses observed during the mortgage crisis.

PPP loans were considered low risk assets due to the related 100% guarantee by the SBA and were therefore excluded from the calculation.

Note 5 – Derivatives and Hedging Activities

The table below presents the fair value of derivative financial instruments as of the dates indicated as well as their classification on the consolidated balance sheets (in thousands):


	March 31, 2021						December 31, 2020
	Notional Amount		Fair Value				Notional Amount		Fair Value
			Derivative Asset		Derivative Liability				Derivative Asset		Derivative Liability
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:
Cash flow hedge of subordinated debt	$	100,000	$	7,780	$	—	$	100,000	$	3,378	$	—
Cash flow hedge of trust preferred securities	20,000		—		—		20,000		—		—
Fair value hedge of brokered time deposits	10,000		—		—		20,000		—		—
Total	130,000		7,780		—		140,000		3,378		—

Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
Customer derivative positions	1,349,716		43,777		13,623		1,329,271		72,508		17
Dealer offsets to customer derivative positions	1,349,716		982		15,226		1,329,271		1		24,614
Risk participations	62,592		1		22		48,843		28		12
Mortgage banking - loan commitment	234,659		5,957		—		253,243		10,751		—
Mortgage banking - forward sales commitment	421,547		3,050		—		325,145		—		1,964
Bifurcated embedded derivatives	51,935		2,350		19		51,935		—		1,449
Dealer offsets to bifurcated embedded derivatives	51,935		—		4,565		51,935		—		947
Total	3,522,100		56,117		33,455		3,389,643		83,288		29,003

Total derivatives	$	3,652,100	$	63,897	$	33,455	$	3,529,643	$	86,666	$	29,003

Total gross derivative instruments			$	63,897	$	33,455			$	86,666	$	29,003
Less: Amounts subject to master netting agreements			(571)		(571)				(114)		(114)
Less: Cash collateral received/pledged			(8,765)		(20,737)				(3,200)		(27,092)
Net amount			$	54,561	$	12,147			$	83,352	$	1,797

United clears certain derivatives centrally through the CME. CME rules legally characterize variation margin payments for centrally cleared derivatives as settlements of the derivatives’ exposure rather than as collateral. As a result, the variation margin payment and the related derivative instruments are considered a single unit of account for accounting purposes. Variation margin, as determined by the CME, is settled daily. As a result, derivative contracts that clear through the CME have an estimated fair value of zero.

UNITED COMMUNITY BANKS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Hedging Derivatives

Cash Flow Hedges of Interest Rate Risk

United enters into cash flow hedges to mitigate exposure to the variability of future cash flows or other forecasted transactions. As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 United utilized interest rate caps and swaps to hedge the variability of cash flows due to changes in interest rates on certain of its variable-rate subordinated debt and trust preferred securities. United considers these derivatives to be highly effective at achieving offsetting changes in cash flows attributable to changes in interest rates. Therefore, changes in the fair value of these derivative instruments are recognized in OCI. Gains and losses related to changes in fair value are reclassified into earnings in the periods the hedged forecasted transactions occur. Losses representing amortization of the premium recorded on cash flow hedges, which is a component excluded from the assessment of effectiveness, are recognized in earnings on a straight-line basis in the same caption as the hedged item over the term of the hedge. Over the next twelve months, United expects to reclassify $587,000 of losses from AOCI into earnings related to these agreements.

Fair Value Hedges of Interest Rate Risk

United is exposed to changes in the fair value of certain of its fixed-rate obligations due to changes in interest rates. United uses interest rate derivatives to manage its exposure to changes in fair value on these instruments attributable to changes in interest rates. For derivatives designated and that qualify as fair value hedges, the gain or loss on the derivative as well as the offsetting loss or gain on the hedged item attributable to the hedged risk are recognized in earnings. United includes the gain or loss on the hedged items in the same income statement line item as the offsetting loss or gain on the related derivatives.

At March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, United had interest rate swaps that were designated as fair value hedges of fixed-rate brokered time deposits. The swaps involved the receipt of fixed-rate amounts from a counterparty in exchange for United making variable rate payments over the life of the agreements.

In certain cases, the estate of deceased brokered certificate of deposit holders may put the certificate of deposit back to United at par upon the death of the holder. When these events (estate puts) occur, a gain or loss is recognized for the difference between the fair value and the par amount of the deposits put back. The change in the fair value of brokered time deposits that are being hedged in fair value hedging relationships reported in the table above includes gains and losses from estate puts.

The table below presents the effect of derivatives in hedging relationships, all of which are interest rate contracts, on the consolidated statement of income for the periods indicated (in thousands).


	Interest expense

	2021		2020
Three Months Ended March 31,
Total expense presented in the consolidated statements of income	$	(9,478)	$	(17,941)






Net income recognized on fair value hedges	78		5




Net expense recognized on cash flow hedges (1)	(144)		—

(1) Includes $116,000 of premium amortization expense excluded from the assessment of hedge effectiveness for the three months ended March 31, 2021.

The table below presents the carrying amount of hedged fixed-rate brokered time deposits and cumulative fair value hedging adjustments included in the carrying amount of the hedged liability for the periods presented (in thousands).


	March 31, 2021				December 31, 2020
Balance Sheet Location	Carrying amount of Assets (Liabilities)		Hedge Accounting Basis Adjustment		Carrying amount of Assets (Liabilities)		Hedge Accounting Basis Adjustment
Deposits	$	(10,143)	$	(155)	$	(20,216)	$	(235)

Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments

Customer derivative positions include swaps, caps, and collars between United and certain commercial loan customers with offsetting positions to dealers under a back-to-back program. In addition, United occasionally enters into credit risk participation agreements with counterparty banks to accept or transfer a portion of the credit risk related to interest rate swaps. The agreements, which are typically executed in conjunction with a participation in a loan with the same customer, allow customers to execute an interest rate swap with one bank while allowing for the distribution of the credit risk among participating members.

UNITED COMMUNITY BANKS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

United also has three interest rate swap contracts that are not designated as hedging instruments but are economic hedges of market-linked brokered certificates of deposit. The market-linked brokered certificates of deposit contain embedded derivatives that are bifurcated from the host instruments and are marked to market through earnings. The fair value marks on the market-linked swaps and the bifurcated embedded derivatives tend to move in opposite directions with changes in 90-day LIBOR and therefore provide an economic hedge.

In addition, United originates certain residential mortgage loans with the intention of selling these loans. Between the time United enters into an interest-rate lock commitment to originate a residential mortgage loan that is to be held for sale and the time the loan is funded and eventually sold, United is subject to the risk of variability in market prices. United enters into forward sale agreements to mitigate risk and to protect the expected gain on the eventual loan sale. The commitments to originate residential mortgage loans and forward loan sales commitments are freestanding derivative instruments. Fair value adjustments on these derivative instruments are recorded within mortgage loan gains and other related fee income in the consolidated statements of income.

The table below presents the gains and losses recognized in income on derivatives not designated as hedging instruments for the periods indicated (in thousands).


	Location of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivatives		Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivatives
		Three Months Ended March 31,
			2021		2020

Customer derivatives and dealer offsets	Other noninterest income		$	1,897	$	1,424
Bifurcated embedded derivatives and dealer offsets	Other noninterest income		459		(195)


Mortgage banking derivatives	Mortgage loan revenue		3,836		(829)
Risk participations	Other noninterest income		(205)		(17)
			$	5,987	$	383

Credit-Risk-Related Contingent Features

United manages its credit exposure on derivatives transactions by entering into a bilateral credit support agreement with each non-customer counterparty. The credit support agreements require collateralization of exposures beyond specified minimum threshold amounts. The details of these agreements, including the minimum thresholds, vary by counterparty.

United’s agreements with each of its derivative counterparties provide that if either party defaults on any of its indebtedness, then it could also be declared in default on its derivative obligations. The agreements with derivative counterparties also include provisions that if not met, could result in United being declared in default. United has agreements with certain of its derivative counterparties that provide that if United fails to maintain its status as a well-capitalized institution or is subject to a prompt corrective action directive, the counterparty could terminate the derivative positions and United would be required to settle its obligations under the agreements. Derivatives that are centrally cleared do not have credit-risk-related features that would require additional collateral if United’s credit rating were downgraded.

Note 6 – Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value

Fair value measurements are determined based on the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. As a basis for considering market participant assumptions in fair value measurements, United uses a fair value hierarchy that distinguishes between market participant assumptions based on market data obtained from sources independent of the reporting entity (observable inputs that are classified within Levels 1 and 2 of the hierarchy) and the reporting entity’s own assumptions about market participant assumptions (unobservable inputs classified within Level 3 of the hierarchy). United has processes in place to review the significant valuation inputs and to reassess how the instruments are classified in the valuation framework.

Fair Value Hierarchy

Level 1 Valuation is based upon quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that United has the ability to access.

Level 2 Valuation is based upon quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, as well as inputs that are observable for the asset or liability (other than quoted prices), such as interest rates, foreign exchange rates, and yield curves that are observable at commonly quoted intervals.

UNITED COMMUNITY BANKS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Level 3 Valuation is generated from model-based techniques that use at least one significant assumption based on unobservable inputs for the asset or liability, which are typically based on an entity’s own assumptions, as there is little, if any, related market activity.

In instances when the determination of the fair value measurement is based on inputs from different levels of the fair value hierarchy, the level in the fair value hierarchy within which the entire fair value measurement falls is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. The assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment and considers factors specific to the asset or liability.

The following is a description of the valuation methodologies used for assets and liabilities recorded at fair value.

Investment Securities

AFS debt securities and equity securities with readily determinable fair values are recorded at fair value on a recurring basis. Fair value measurement is based upon quoted prices, if available. If quoted prices are not available, fair values are measured using independent pricing models or other model-based valuation techniques such as the present value of future cash flows, adjusted for the security’s credit rating, prepayment assumptions and other factors such as credit loss assumptions. Level 1 securities include those traded on an active exchange, such as the New York Stock Exchange, U.S. Treasury securities that are traded by dealers or brokers in active over-the-counter markets and money market funds. Level 2 securities include MBS issued by GSEs, municipal bonds, corporate debt securities, asset-backed securities and supranational entity securities and are valued based on observable inputs that include: quoted market prices for similar assets, quoted market prices that are not in an active market, or other inputs that are observable in the market and can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the securities. Securities classified as Level 3 include those traded in less liquid markets and are valued based on estimates obtained from broker-dealers that are not directly observable.

Deferred Compensation Plan Assets and Liabilities

Included in other assets in the consolidated balance sheet are assets related to employee deferred compensation plans. The assets associated with these plans are invested in mutual funds and classified as Level 1. Deferred compensation liabilities, also classified as Level 1, are carried at the fair value of the obligation to the employee, which mirrors the fair value of the invested assets and is included in other liabilities in the consolidated balance sheet.

Mortgage Loans Held for Sale

United has elected the fair value option for most of its newly originated mortgage loans held for sale in order to reduce certain timing differences and better match changes in fair values of the loans with changes in the value of derivative instruments used to economically hedge them. The fair value of mortgage loans held for sale is determined using quoted prices for a similar asset, adjusted for specific attributes of that loan, and are classified as Level 2.

Derivative Financial Instruments

United uses derivatives to manage interest rate risk. The valuation of these instruments is typically determined using widely accepted valuation techniques including discounted cash flow analysis on the expected cash flows of each derivative. This analysis reflects the contractual terms of the derivatives, including the period to maturity, and uses observable market-based inputs, including interest rate curves and implied volatilities. The fair values of interest rate swaps are determined using the market standard methodology of netting the discounted future fixed cash receipts and the discounted expected variable cash payments. The variable cash payments are based on an expectation of future interest rates (forward curves) derived from observable market interest rate curves. United also uses best effort and mandatory delivery forward loan sale commitments to hedge risk in its mortgage lending business.

United incorporates CVAs as necessary to appropriately reflect the respective counterparty’s nonperformance risk in the fair value measurements. In adjusting the fair value of its derivative contracts for the effect of nonperformance risk, United has considered the effect of netting and any applicable credit enhancements, such as collateral postings, thresholds and guarantees.

Management has determined that the majority of the inputs used to value its derivatives fall within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. However, the CVAs associated with these derivatives utilize Level 3 inputs, such as estimates of current credit spreads, to evaluate the likelihood of default by itself and its counterparties. Generally, management’s assessment of the significance of the CVAs has indicated that they are not a significant input to the overall valuation of the derivatives. In cases where management’s assessment indicates that the CVA is a significant input, the related derivative is disclosed as a Level 3 value.

Other derivatives classified as Level 3 include structured derivatives for which broker quotes, used as a key valuation input, were not observable. Risk participation agreements are classified as Level 3 instruments due to the incorporation of significant Level 3 inputs used to evaluate the probability of funding and the likelihood of customer default. Interest rate lock commitments, which relate to

UNITED COMMUNITY BANKS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

mortgage loan commitments, are categorized as Level 3 instruments as the fair value of these instruments is based on unobservable inputs for commitments that United does not expect to fund.

Servicing Rights for Residential and SBA/USDA Loans

United recognizes servicing rights upon the sale of residential and SBA/USDA loans sold with servicing retained. Management has elected to carry these assets at fair value. Given the nature of these assets, the key valuation inputs are unobservable and management classifies these assets as Level 3.

Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis

The table below presents United’s assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of the dates indicated, aggregated by the level in the fair value hierarchy within which those measurements fall (in thousands).


March 31, 2021	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
Assets:
AFS debt securities:
U.S. Treasuries	$	127,569	$	—	$	—	$	127,569
U.S. Government agencies & GSEs	—		173,522		—		173,522
State and political subdivisions	—		294,394		—		294,394
Residential MBS	—		1,662,635		—		1,662,635
Commercial MBS	—		735,058		—		735,058
Corporate bonds	—		68,860		1,750		70,610
Asset-backed securities	—		680,492		—		680,492
Equity securities with readily available fair values	921		1,056		—		1,977
Mortgage loans held for sale	—		164,979		—		164,979
Deferred compensation plan assets	10,133		—		—		10,133
Servicing rights for SBA/USDA loans	—		—		6,226		6,226
Residential mortgage servicing rights	—		—		20,728		20,728
Derivative financial instruments	—		55,589		8,308		63,897
Total assets	$	138,623	$	3,836,585	$	37,012	$	4,012,220

Liabilities:
Deferred compensation plan liability	$	10,156	$	—	$	—	$	10,156
Derivative financial instruments	—		28,849		4,606		33,455
Total liabilities	$	10,156	$	28,849	$	4,606	$	43,611

UNITED COMMUNITY BANKS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)


December 31, 2020	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
Assets:
AFS debt securities:
U.S. Treasuries	$	128,072	$	—	$	—	$	128,072
U.S. Government agencies & GSE's	—		152,972		—		152,972
State and political subdivisions	—		274,472		—		274,472
Residential MBS	—		1,485,585		—		1,485,585
Commercial MBS	—		549,131		—		549,131
Corporate bonds	—		70,017		1,750		71,767
Asset-backed securities	—		562,722		—		562,722
Equity securities with readily available fair values	774		913		—		1,687
Mortgage loans held for sale	—		105,433		—		105,433
Deferred compensation plan assets	9,584		—		—		9,584
Servicing rights for SBA/USDA loans	—		—		6,462		6,462
Residential mortgage servicing rights	—		—		16,216		16,216
Derivative financial instruments	—		75,887		10,779		86,666
Total assets	$	138,430	$	3,277,132	$	35,207	$	3,450,769

Liabilities:
Deferred compensation plan liability	$	9,590	$	—	$	—	$	9,590
Derivative financial instruments	—		26,595		2,408		29,003
Total liabilities	$	9,590	$	26,595	$	2,408	$	38,593

The following table shows a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances for the periods indicated for assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs that are classified as Level 3 values (in thousands).


	2021										2020
	Derivative Assets		Derivative Liabilities		SBA/USDA loan servicing rights		Residential mortgage servicing rights		AFS Debt Securities		Derivative Assets		Derivative Liabilities		SBA/USDA loan servicing rights		Residential mortgage servicing rights		AFS Debt Securities










Three Months Ended March 31,
Balance at beginning of period	$	10,779	$	2,408	$	6,462	$	16,216	$	1,750	$	7,238	$	8,559	$	6,794	$	13,565	$	998

Additions	175		—		229		3,201		—		—		—		95		2,115		—

Sales and settlements	—		—		(191)		(1,129)		—		—		—		(307)		(493)		(1,000)
Amounts included in OCI	—		—		—		—		—		—		—		—		—		2
Amounts included in earnings - fair value adjustments	(2,646)		2,198		(274)		2,440		—		123		(5,842)		(292)		(4,128)		—
Balance at end of period	$	8,308	$	4,606	$	6,226	$	20,728	$	1,750	$	7,361	$	2,717	$	6,290	$	11,059	$	—

UNITED COMMUNITY BANKS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

The following table presents quantitative information about significant Level 3 inputs for fair value on a recurring basis as of the dates indicated.

Level 3 Assets and Liabilities

Valuation Technique

Significant Unobservable Inputs

March 31, 2021

December 31, 2020

Range

Weighted Average

Range

Weighted Average

SBA/USDA loan servicing rights

Discounted cash flow

Discount rate

—% - 48.1%

9.2

1.6% - 44.1%

8.9

Prepayment rate

0.5 - 33.7

18.1

2.7 - 33.6

17.8

Residential mortgage servicing rights

Discounted cash flow

Discount rate

10.0 - 11.0

10.0

10.0 - 11.0

10.0

Prepayment rate

7.5 - 17.8

12.9

8.7 - 19.5

17.7

Corporate bonds

Indicative bid provided by a broker

Multiple factors, including but not limited to, current operations, financial condition, cash flows, and similar financing transactions executed in the market

N/A

Derivative assets - mortgage

Internal model

Pull through rate

46.1 - 98.9

85.5

65.6 - 100

83.9

Derivative assets and liabilities - other

Dealer priced

N/A

Fair Value Option

United records mortgage loans held for sale at fair value under the fair value option. Interest income on these loans is calculated based on the note rate of the loan and is recorded in interest revenue. The following tables present the fair value and outstanding principal balance of these loans, as well as the gain or loss recognized resulting from the change in fair value for the periods indicated (in thousands).


Mortgage Loans Held for Sale
	March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
Outstanding principal balance	$	161,534	$	99,746
Fair value	164,979		105,433


Gain (Loss) Recognized on Mortgage Loans Held for Sale
Location	Three Months Ended March 31,
		2021		2020
Mortgage loan gains and other related fees		$	(2,242)	$	1,725

Changes in fair value were mostly offset by hedging activities. An immaterial portion of these amounts was attributable to changes in instrument-specific credit risk.

Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis

United may be required, from time to time, to measure certain assets at fair value on a nonrecurring basis. These adjustments to fair value usually result from the application of the lower of the amortized cost or fair value accounting or write-downs of individual assets due to impairment. The following table presents the fair value hierarchy and carrying value of assets that were still held as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, for which a nonrecurring fair value adjustment was recorded during the year-to-date periods presented (in thousands).


	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
March 31, 2021
Loans	$	—	$	—	$	5,853	$	5,853

December 31, 2020
Loans	$	—	$	—	$	29,404	$	29,404

Loans that are reported above as being measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis are generally impaired loans that have either been partially charged off or have specific reserves assigned to them. Nonaccrual loans that are collateral dependent are generally

UNITED COMMUNITY BANKS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

written down to net realizable value, which reflects fair value less the estimated costs to sell. Specific reserves that are established based on appraised value of collateral are considered nonrecurring fair value adjustments as well. When the fair value of the collateral is based on an observable market price or a current appraised value, United records the impaired loan as nonrecurring Level 2. When an appraised value is not available or management determines the fair value of the collateral is further impaired below the appraised value and there is no observable market price, United records the impaired loan as nonrecurring Level 3.

Assets and Liabilities Not Measured at Fair Value

For financial instruments that have quoted market prices, those quotes are used to determine fair value. Financial instruments that have no defined maturity, have a remaining maturity of 180 days or less, or reprice frequently to a market rate, are assumed to have a fair value that approximates reported book value, after taking into consideration any applicable credit risk. If no market quotes are available, financial instruments are valued by discounting the expected cash flows using an estimated current market interest rate for the financial instrument. For off-balance sheet derivative instruments, fair value is estimated as the amount that United would receive or pay to terminate the contracts at the reporting date, taking into account the current unrealized gains or losses on open contracts.

Cash and cash equivalents and repurchase agreements have short maturities and therefore the carrying value approximates fair value. Due to the short-term settlement of accrued interest receivable and payable, the carrying amount closely approximates fair value.

Fair value estimates are made at a specific point in time, based on relevant market information and information about the financial instrument. These estimates do not reflect the premium or discount on any particular financial instrument that could result from the sale of United’s entire holdings. All estimates are inherently subjective in nature. Changes in assumptions could significantly affect the estimates.

Fair value estimates are based on existing on and off-balance sheet financial instruments without attempting to estimate the value of anticipated future business and the value of assets and liabilities that are not considered financial instruments. Significant assets and liabilities that are not considered financial instruments include the mortgage banking operation, brokerage network, deferred income taxes, premises and equipment and goodwill. In addition, the tax ramifications related to the realization of the unrealized gains and losses can have a significant effect on fair value estimates and have not been considered in the estimates.

Off-balance sheet instruments (commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit) for which draws can be reasonably predicted are generally short-term in maturity and are priced at variable rates. Therefore, the estimated fair value associated with these instruments is immaterial.

The carrying amount and fair values as of the dates indicated for other financial instruments that are not measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows (in thousands).


			Fair Value Level
	Carrying Amount		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
March 31, 2021
Assets:
HTM debt securities	$	587,696	$	—	$	586,828	$	—	$	586,828
Loans and leases, net	11,551,678		—		—		11,574,199		11,574,199

Liabilities:
Deposits	15,993,220		—		15,993,408		—		15,993,408

Long-term debt	311,591		—		—		322,569		322,569

December 31, 2020
Assets:
HTM debt securities	$	420,361	$	—	$	437,193	$	—	$	437,193
Loans and leases, net	11,233,805		—		—		11,209,717		11,209,717

Liabilities:
Deposits	15,232,358		—		15,232,274		—		15,232,274

Long-term debt	326,956		—		—		336,763		336,763

UNITED COMMUNITY BANKS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 7 – Stock-Based Compensation

United has an equity compensation plan that allows for grants of various share-based compensation. The general terms of the plan include a vesting period (usually four years) with an exercisable period not to exceed ten years. Certain restricted stock unit awards provide for accelerated vesting if there is a change in control (as defined in the plan document). As of March 31, 2021, 893,536 additional awards could be granted under the plan.

The table below presents restricted stock unit activity for the three months ended March 31, 2021.


Restricted Stock Unit Awards	Shares	Weighted- Average Grant- Date Fair Value		Aggregate Intrinsic Value ($000)
Outstanding at December 31, 2020	893,431	$	23.75
Granted	45,471	28.65
Vested	(70,244)	29.35		$	2,317
Cancelled	(35,583)	26.15
Outstanding at March 31, 2021	833,075	23.45		28,425

Compensation expense for restricted stock units and performance stock units without market conditions is based on the market value of United’s common stock on the date of grant. Compensation expense for performance stock units with market conditions is based on the grant date per share fair market value, which was estimated using the Monte Carlo Simulation valuation model. United recognizes the impact of forfeitures as they occur. The value of restricted stock unit and performance stock unit awards is amortized into expense over the service period.

For the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, expense of $1.41 million and $2.40 million, respectively, was recognized related to restricted stock unit and performance stock unit awards granted to United employees, which was included in salaries and employee benefits expense. In addition, for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, $100,000 and $93,000, respectively, was recognized in other expense for restricted stock unit awards granted to members of United’s Board of Directors.

A deferred income tax benefit related to stock-based compensation expense of $385,000 and $637,000 was included in the determination of income tax expense for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. As of March 31, 2021, there was $13.0 million of unrecognized expense related to non-vested restricted stock unit and performance stock unit awards granted under the plan. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 2.5 years.

UNITED COMMUNITY BANKS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 8 – Reclassifications Out of AOCI

The following table presents the details regarding amounts reclassified out of AOCI for the periods indicated (in thousands). Amounts shown in parentheses reduce earnings.



Details about AOCI Components	Three Months Ended March 31,			Affected Line Item in the Statement Where Net Income is Presented
		2021				2020






Amortization of losses included in net income on AFS securities transferred to HTM:
		$	—	$	(83)		Investment securities interest revenue
		—		20			Income tax benefit
		$	—	$	(63)		Net of tax

Reclassifications related to derivative financial instruments accounted for as cash flow hedges:
Interest rate contracts		$	(144)	$	—		Long-term debt interest expense



		37		—			Income tax benefit
		$	(107)	$	—		Net of tax




Reclassifications related to defined benefit pension plan activity:
Prior service cost		$	(117)	$	(133)		Salaries and employee benefits expense
Actuarial losses		(144)		(81)			Other expense

		(261)		(214)			Total before tax
		67		54			Income tax benefit
		$	(194)	$	(160)		Net of tax

Total reclassifications for the period		$	(301)	$	(223)		Net of tax

Note 9 – Earnings Per Share

The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share for the periods indicated (in thousands, except per share data).


	Three Months Ended March 31,
		2021		2020
Net income		$	73,706	$	31,884
Dividends on preferred stock		(1,719)		—
Undistributed earnings allocated to participating securities		(462)		(243)
Net income available to common shareholders		$	71,525	$	31,641

Weighted average shares outstanding:
Basic		87,322		79,340
Effect of dilutive securities:

Restricted stock units		144		106
Diluted		87,466		79,446

Net income per common share:
Basic		$	0.82	$	0.40
Diluted		$	0.82	$	0.40

At March 31, 2021, United had no potentially dilutive instruments outstanding that were not included in the above analysis. At March 31, 2020, United excluded 1,000 potentially dilutive shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of stock options with a weighted average exercise price of $30.45 from the computation of diluted earnings per share because of their antidilutive effect.

UNITED COMMUNITY BANKS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 10 – Regulatory Matters

As of March 31, 2021, United and the Bank were categorized as well-capitalized under the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action in effect at such time. To be categorized as well-capitalized at March 31, 2021, United and the Bank must have exceeded the well-capitalized guideline ratios in effect at such time, as set forth in the table below, and have met certain other requirements. Management believes that United and the Bank exceeded all well-capitalized requirements at March 31, 2021, and there have been no conditions or events since quarter-end that would change the status of well-capitalized.

Regulatory capital ratios at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, along with the minimum amounts required for capital adequacy purposes and to be well-capitalized under prompt corrective action provisions in effect at such times are presented below for United and the Bank (dollars in thousands):


					United Community Banks, Inc. (Consolidated)						United Community Bank
	Minimum (1)		Well- Capitalized		March 31, 2021			December 31, 2020			March 31, 2021			December 31, 2020
Risk-based ratios:
CET1 capital	4.5	%	6.5	%	12.34		%	12.31		%	12.80		%	13.31		%
Tier 1 capital	6.0		8.0		13.11			13.10			12.80			13.31
Total capital	8.0		10.0		14.92			15.15			13.66			14.28
Leverage ratio	4.0		5.0		9.39			9.28			9.13			9.42

CET1 capital					$	1,555,850		$	1,506,750		$	1,605,736		$	1,625,292
Tier 1 capital					1,652,272			1,603,172			1,605,736			1,625,292
Total capital					1,880,373			1,854,368			1,713,837			1,743,045
Risk-weighted assets					12,603,232			12,240,440			12,545,967			12,207,940
Average total assets for the leverage ratio					17,605,291			17,276,853			17,582,607			17,246,878

(1) As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 the additional capital conservation buffer in effect was 2.50%

Note 11 – Commitments and Contingencies

United is party to financial instruments with off-balance sheet risk in the normal course of business to meet the financing needs of its customers. These financial instruments include commitments to extend credit and letters of credit. These instruments involve, to varying degrees, elements of credit risk in excess of the amount recognized in the balance sheet. The contract amounts of these instruments reflect the extent of involvement United has in particular classes of financial instruments. The exposure to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by the other party to the financial instrument for commitments to extend credit and letters of credit written is represented by the contractual amount of these instruments. United uses the same credit policies in making commitments and conditional obligations as it uses for underwriting on-balance sheet instruments. In most cases, collateral or other security is required to support financial instruments with credit risk.

The following table summarizes the contractual amount of off-balance sheet instruments as of the dates indicated (in thousands).


	March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
Financial instruments whose contract amounts represent credit risk:
Commitments to extend credit	$	3,156,771	$	3,052,657
Letters of credit	28,886		31,748

United holds minor investments in certain limited partnerships for Community Reinvestment Act purposes. As of March 31, 2021, United had committed to fund an additional $8.43 million related to future capital calls that are not reflected in the consolidated balance sheet.

United, in the normal course of business, is subject to various pending and threatened lawsuits in which claims for monetary damages are asserted. Although it is not possible to predict the outcome of these lawsuits, or the range of any possible loss, management, after consultation with legal counsel, does not anticipate that the ultimate aggregate liability, if any, arising from these lawsuits will have a material adverse effect on United’s financial position or results of operations.

UNITED COMMUNITY BANKS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Note 12 - Subsequent Events

During the second quarter of 2021, through the date of this Report, United repurchased 150,000 shares for $5.10 million in accordance with its common stock repurchase plan.

United has provided a redemption notice to the holders of the 2022 senior debentures of $50.0 million. Repayment is scheduled to occur during the second quarter of 2021.

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

The following is a discussion of our financial condition at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 and our results of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020. The purpose of this discussion is to focus on information about our financial condition and results of operations which is not otherwise apparent from our consolidated financial statements and is intended to provide insight into our results of operations and financial condition. The following discussion and analysis should be read along with our consolidated financial statements and related notes included in Part I - Item 1 of this Report, “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” and the risk factors discussed in our 2020 10-K, and the other reports we have filed with the SEC after we filed the 2020 10-K.

Unless the context otherwise requires, the terms “we,” “our,” “us” refer to United on a consolidated basis. References to the Holding Company refer to United Community Banks, Inc. on an unconsolidated basis.

Overview

We offer a wide array of commercial and consumer banking services and investment advisory services through a 161 branch network throughout Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee and Florida. We have grown organically as well as through strategic acquisitions. At March 31, 2021, we had consolidated total assets of $18.6 billion and 2,396 full-time equivalent employees.

Recent Developments

Mergers and Acquisitions

On July 1, 2020, we acquired Three Shores including its wholly-owned banking subsidiary, Seaside, headquartered in Orlando, Florida. Seaside was a premier commercial lender with a strong wealth management platform and operated a 14-branch network located in key Florida metropolitan markets. We acquired $2.13 billion of assets and assumed $1.99 billion of liabilities in the acquisition.

COVID-19

During 2020 and continuing into 2021, the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, including preventative and protective government issued mandates, materially restricted the level of economic activity in our markets. These government mandates included restrictions on travel and business operations, stay-at-home advisories and requirements and temporary closures of businesses deemed to be non-essential. In turn, unemployment dramatically increased in the United States and, while it has receded from its highest levels, it continues to negatively impact many businesses, and thereby threatens the repayment ability of some of our borrowers. The distribution of COVID-19 vaccinations and reduction in COVID-19 cases since the peak during the fourth quarter of 2020 and beginning of 2021 has resulted in a projected improved outlook of the pandemic. We nevertheless continue to monitor the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our business and to offer assistance to our customers affected by its economic impacts, through payment deferrals, waiving certain fees, suspending property foreclosures and participating in the CARES Act and PPP.

Results of Operations

We reported net income and diluted earnings per common share of $73.7 million and $0.82, respectively, for the first quarter of 2021. This compared to net income and diluted earnings per common share of $31.9 million and $0.40, respectively, for the same period in 2020.

We reported net income - operating (non-GAAP) of $74.9 million for the first quarter of 2021, compared to $32.5 million for the same period in 2020. For the first quarters of 2021 and 2020, net income - operating (non-GAAP) excludes merger-related and other charges, which net of tax, totaled $1.21 million and $626,000, respectively.

Net interest revenue increased to $132 million for the first quarter of 2021, compared to $119 million for the first quarter of 2020, due to several factors including loan growth, mostly from the acquisition of Three Shores and addition of PPP loans, accelerated recognition of net deferred fees on forgiven and repaid PPP loans and a more favorable deposit mix, which included a reduction in higher cost time deposits and an increase in noninterest-bearing deposits. The net interest margin decreased to 3.22% for the three months ended March 31, 2021 from 4.07% for the same period in 2020 primarily due to the effect of falling interest rates on our asset sensitive balance sheet.

We recorded a negative provision for credit losses of $12.3 million for the first quarter of 2021, compared to $22.2 million of provision expense for the first quarter of 2020. The negative provision in 2021 resulted from a downward adjustment to the ACL, reflecting a combination of the Bank’s own credit trends and an improved economic forecast compared to the first quarter of 2020.

The provision for credit losses during the first quarter of 2020 reflected the economic forecast at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and increased charge-offs. We recognized net recoveries for the first quarter of 2021 of $305,000 compared to $8.11 million of net charge-offs for the same period in 2020. During the first quarter of 2021, net recoveries were primarily a result of the recovery of one loan charged off prior to 2021. During the first quarter of 2020, we also had one loan that elevated the level of charge-offs recorded for the period.

Noninterest income of $44.7 million for the first quarter of 2021 was up $18.9 million, or 73%, from the first quarter of 2020. The primary driver of the increase was a $14.3 million increase in mortgage loan gains and related fees, resulting from strong demand for mortgage originations and refinances in the low interest rate environment, as well as a positive fair value adjustment to our mortgage servicing right asset.

For the first quarter of 2021, noninterest expenses of $95.2 million increased $13.7 million, or 17%, compared to the same period of 2020. The increase was primarily attributable to a $9.23 million increase in salaries and employee benefits, which was driven by several factors, including higher mortgage commissions as a result of increased mortgage production and the inclusion of Three Shores employees for the first quarter of 2021.

Critical Accounting Policies

Our accounting and reporting policies are in accordance with GAAP and conform to general practices within the banking industry. Our more critical accounting and reporting policies include accounting for the ACL and fair value measurements, both of which involve the use of estimates and require significant judgments to be made by management. Different assumptions in the application of these policies could result in material changes in our consolidated financial position or consolidated results of operations. Our critical accounting policies are discussed in MD&A in our 2020 10-K. There have been no significant changes to our critical accounting policies in 2021.

Non-GAAP Reconciliation and Explanation

This Report contains financial information determined by methods other than in accordance with GAAP. Such non-GAAP financial information includes the following measures: “tangible book value per common share,” and “tangible common equity to tangible assets.” In addition, management presents non-GAAP operating performance measures, which exclude merger-related and other items that are not part of our ongoing business operations. Operating performance measures include “expenses – operating,” “net income – operating,” “diluted income per common share – operating,” “return on common equity – operating,” “return on tangible common equity – operating,” “return on assets – operating,” “dividend payout ratio – operating” and “efficiency ratio – operating.” Management has developed internal policies and procedures to accurately capture and account for merger-related and other charges and those charges are reviewed with the Audit Committee of our Board each quarter. Management uses these non-GAAP measures because it believes they provide useful supplemental information for evaluating our operations and performance over periods of time, as well as in managing and evaluating our business and in discussions about our operations and performance. Management believes these non-GAAP measures may also provide users of our financial information with a meaningful measure for assessing our financial results and credit trends, as well as a comparison to financial results for prior periods. Nevertheless, non-GAAP measures have inherent limitations, are not required to be uniformly applied and are not audited. These non-GAAP measures should be viewed in addition to, and not as an alternative to or substitute for, measures determined in accordance with GAAP. In addition, because non-GAAP measures are not standardized, it may not be possible to compare our non-GAAP measures to similarly titled measures used by other companies. To the extent applicable, reconciliations of these non-GAAP measures to the most directly comparable measures as reported in accordance with GAAP are included in Table 1 of MD&A.


UNITED COMMUNITY BANKS, INC.
Table 1 - Financial Highlights
Selected Financial Information
	2021			2020												First Quarter 2021 - 2020 Change
(in thousands, except per share data)	First Quarter			Fourth Quarter			Third Quarter			Second Quarter			First Quarter
INCOME SUMMARY
Interest revenue	$	141,542		$	156,071		$	141,773		$	123,605		$	136,547
Interest expense	9,478			10,676			13,319			14,301			17,941
Net interest revenue	132,064			145,395			128,454			109,304			118,606			11	%
(Release of) provision for credit losses	(12,281)			2,907			21,793			33,543			22,191
Noninterest income	44,705			41,375			48,682			40,238			25,814			73
Total revenue	189,050			183,863			155,343			115,999			122,229			55
Expenses	95,194			106,490			95,981			83,980			81,538			17
Income before income tax expense	93,856			77,373			59,362			32,019			40,691			131
Income tax expense	20,150			17,871			11,755			6,923			8,807			129
Net income	73,706			59,502			47,607			25,096			31,884			131
Merger-related and other charges	1,543			2,452			3,361			397			808
Income tax benefit of merger-related and other charges	(335)			(552)			(519)			(87)			(182)


Net income - operating (1)	$	74,914		$	61,402		$	50,449		$	25,406		$	32,510		130

PERFORMANCE MEASURES
Per common share:
Diluted net income - GAAP	$	0.82		$	0.66		$	0.52		$	0.32		$	0.40		105
Diluted net income - operating (1)	0.83			0.68			0.55			0.32			0.41			102
Cash dividends declared	0.19			0.18			0.18			0.18			0.18			6
Book value	22.15			21.90			21.45			21.22			20.80			6
Tangible book value (3)	17.83			17.56			17.09			16.95			16.52			8
Key performance ratios:
Return on common equity - GAAP (2)(4)	15.37		%	12.36		%	10.06		%	6.17		%	7.85		%
Return on common equity - operating (1)(2)(4)	15.63			12.77			10.69			6.25			8.01
Return on tangible common equity - operating (1)(2)(3)(4)	19.68			16.23			13.52			8.09			10.57
Return on assets - GAAP (4)	1.62			1.30			1.07			0.71			0.99
Return on assets - operating (1)(4)	1.65			1.34			1.14			0.72			1.01
Dividend payout ratio - GAAP	23.17			27.27			34.62			56.25			45.00
Dividend payout ratio - operating (1)	22.89			26.47			32.73			56.25			43.90
Net interest margin (FTE) (4)	3.22			3.55			3.27			3.42			4.07
Efficiency ratio - GAAP	53.55			56.73			54.14			55.86			56.15
Efficiency ratio - operating (1)	52.68			55.42			52.24			55.59			55.59
Equity to total assets	10.95			11.29			11.47			11.81			12.54

Tangible common equity to tangible assets (3)	8.57			8.81			8.89			9.12			10.22


ASSET QUALITY
Nonperforming loans	$	55,900		$	61,599		$	49,084		$	48,021		$	36,208		54
Foreclosed properties	596			647			953			477			475
Total NPAs	56,496			62,246			50,037			48,498			36,683			54
ACL - loans	126,866			137,010			134,256			103,669			81,905			55
Net charge-offs	(305)			1,515			2,538			6,149			8,114
ACL - loans to loans	1.09		%	1.20		%	1.14		%	1.02		%	0.92		%
Net charge-offs to average loans (4)	(0.01)			0.05			0.09			0.25			0.37
NPAs to loans and foreclosed properties	0.48			0.55			0.42			0.48			0.41
NPAs to total assets	0.30			0.35			0.29			0.32			0.28

AVERAGE BALANCES ($ in millions)
Loans	$	11,433		$	11,595		$	11,644		$	9,773		$	8,829		29
Investment securities	3,991			3,326			2,750			2,408			2,520			58
Earning assets	16,782			16,394			15,715			12,958			11,798			42
Total assets	18,023			17,698			17,013			14,173			12,944			39
Deposits	15,366			15,057			14,460			12,071			10,915			41
Shareholders’ equity	2,025			1,994			1,948			1,686			1,653			23
Common shares - basic (thousands)	87,322			87,258			87,129			78,920			79,340			10
Common shares - diluted (thousands)	87,466			87,333			87,205			78,924			79,446			10

AT PERIOD END ($ in millions)
Loans	$	11,679		$	11,371		$	11,799		$	10,133		$	8,935		31
Investment securities	4,332			3,645			3,089			2,432			2,540			71
Total assets	18,557			17,794			17,153			15,005			13,086			42
Deposits	15,993			15,232			14,603			12,702			11,035			45
Shareholders’ equity	2,031			2,008			1,967			1,772			1,641			24
Common shares outstanding (thousands)	86,777			86,675			86,611			78,335			78,284			11

(1) Excludes merger-related and other charges. (2) Net income less preferred stock dividends, divided by average realized common equity, which excludes AOCI. (3) Excludes effect of acquisition related intangibles and associated amortization. (4) Annualized.


UNITED COMMUNITY BANKS, INC.
Table 1 (Continued) - Non-GAAP Performance Measures Reconciliation
Selected Financial Information
	2021			2020
(in thousands, except per share data)	First Quarter			Fourth Quarter			Third Quarter			Second Quarter			First Quarter

Expense reconciliation
Expenses (GAAP)	$	95,194		$	106,490		$	95,981		$	83,980		$	81,538
Merger-related and other charges	(1,543)			(2,452)			(3,361)			(397)			(808)
Expenses - operating	$	93,651		$	104,038		$	92,620		$	83,583		$	80,730

Net income reconciliation
Net income (GAAP)	$	73,706		$	59,502		$	47,607		$	25,096		$	31,884
Merger-related and other charges	1,543			2,452			3,361			397			808
Income tax benefit of merger-related and other charges	(335)			(552)			(519)			(87)			(182)


Net income - operating	$	74,914		$	61,402		$	50,449		$	25,406		$	32,510

Diluted income per common share reconciliation
Diluted income per common share (GAAP)	$	0.82		$	0.66		$	0.52		$	0.32		$	0.40
Merger-related and other charges, net of tax	0.01			0.02			0.03			—			0.01


Diluted income per common share - operating	$	0.83		$	0.68		$	0.55		$	0.32		$	0.41

Book value per common share reconciliation
Book value per common share (GAAP)	$	22.15		$	21.90		$	21.45		$	21.22		$	20.80
Effect of goodwill and other intangibles	(4.32)			(4.34)			(4.36)			(4.27)			(4.28)
Tangible book value per common share	$	17.83		$	17.56		$	17.09		$	16.95		$	16.52

Return on tangible common equity reconciliation
Return on common equity (GAAP)	15.37		%	12.36		%	10.06		%	6.17		%	7.85		%
Merger-related and other charges, net of tax	0.26			0.41			0.63			0.08			0.16


Return on common equity - operating	15.63			12.77			10.69			6.25			8.01
Effect of goodwill and other intangibles	4.05			3.46			2.83			1.84			2.56
Return on tangible common equity - operating	19.68		%	16.23		%	13.52		%	8.09		%	10.57		%

Return on assets reconciliation
Return on assets (GAAP)	1.62		%	1.30		%	1.07		%	0.71		%	0.99		%
Merger-related and other charges, net of tax	0.03			0.04			0.07			0.01			0.02


Return on assets - operating	1.65		%	1.34		%	1.14		%	0.72		%	1.01		%

Dividend payout ratio reconciliation
Dividend payout ratio (GAAP)	23.17		%	27.27		%	34.62		%	56.25		%	45.00		%
Merger-related and other charges, net of tax	(0.28)			(0.80)			(1.89)			—			(1.10)


Dividend payout ratio - operating	22.89		%	26.47		%	32.73		%	56.25		%	43.90		%

Efficiency ratio reconciliation
Efficiency ratio (GAAP)	53.55		%	56.73		%	54.14		%	55.86		%	56.15		%
Merger-related and other charges	(0.87)			(1.31)			(1.90)			(0.27)			(0.56)
Efficiency ratio - operating	52.68		%	55.42		%	52.24		%	55.59		%	55.59		%

Tangible common equity to tangible assets reconciliation
Equity to total assets (GAAP)	10.95		%	11.29		%	11.47		%	11.81		%	12.54		%
Effect of goodwill and other intangibles	(1.86)			(1.94)			(2.02)			(2.05)			(2.32)

Effect of preferred equity	(0.52)			(0.54)			(0.56)			(0.64)			—
Tangible common equity to tangible assets	8.57		%	8.81		%	8.89		%	9.12		%	10.22		%

Net Interest Revenue

Net interest revenue, which is the difference between the interest earned on assets and the interest paid on deposits and borrowed funds, is the single largest component of total revenue. Management seeks to optimize this revenue while balancing interest rate, credit and liquidity risks.

The banking industry generally uses two ratios to measure the relative profitability of net interest revenue. The net interest spread measures the difference between the average yield on interest-earning assets and the average rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities. The interest rate spread eliminates the effect of noninterest-bearing deposits and shareholders’ equity and gives a direct perspective on the effect of market interest rate movements. The net interest margin is an indication of the profitability of a company’s balance sheet and is defined as net interest revenue as a percent of average total interest-earning assets, which includes the positive effect of funding a portion of interest-earning assets with noninterest-bearing deposits and shareholders’ equity.

Net interest revenue for the first quarters of 2021 and 2020 was $132 million and $119 million, respectively. As set forth in the following table, FTE net interest revenue for the first quarter of 2021 was $133 million, representing an increase of $13.6 million, or 11%, from the same period in 2020. The net interest spread for the first quarters of 2021 and 2020 was 3.06% and 3.73%, respectively. The net interest margin for the first quarters of 2021 and 2020 was 3.22% and 4.07%, respectively.

The following table indicates the relationship between interest revenue and expense and the average amounts of assets and liabilities for the periods indicated. Both average assets and average liabilities for the three months ended March 31, 2021 increased compared to the same period of 2020. The increase in average assets was primarily driven by increases in average loans of $2.60 billion, average securities of $1.47 billion and interest-bearing deposits in banks of $909 million. The increase in average liabilities was primarily driven by the $4.45 billion increase in average deposits, which funded much of the growth in average assets for the three months ended March 31, 2021.

In addition to organic growth, the increases in average loans and deposits reflect loans and deposits acquired from Seaside and the addition of PPP loans to our loan portfolio. PPP loans also contributed to deposit growth, since in many cases the proceeds of PPP loans remained in United customer deposit accounts during the first quarter of 2021. Approximately $2.30 billion of the increase in average loans can be attributed to the Seaside and PPP loan portfolios. In addition, the forgiveness of PPP loans has generated additional liquidity, reflected in higher cash balances and a larger investment portfolio.

The increase in net interest revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2021 compared to the same period of 2020 was primarily driven by the acquisition of Seaside, the loan growth discussed above and accelerated recognition of net deferred PPP loan fees upon loan forgiveness or repayment. These contributors to net interest revenue were partially offset by the impact of historically low interest rates and a $2.59 million decrease in purchase loan accretion compared to the same period of 2020, which in turn negatively impacted our net interest margin and net interest spread. Additionally, while PPP loans have significantly contributed to loan growth over the past few quarters, the low contractual interest rate on these loans has exerted negative pressure on the net interest margin and net interest spread. The impact of the decrease in net interest margin was partially mitigated by the growth in noninterest-bearing deposits, which increased $2.07 billion since the first quarter of 2020. Noninterest-bearing deposits comprised 36% of average total deposits for the first quarter of 2021 compared to 32% for the first quarter of 2020. The investment of excess cash into our securities portfolio also has helped improve the earning asset mix and mitigate the impact of the low interest rate environment.


Table 2 - Average Consolidated Balance Sheets and Net Interest Analysis
For the Three Months Ended March 31,


	2021						2020
(dollars in thousands, FTE)	Average Balance		Interest		Average Rate		Average Balance		Interest		Average Rate
Assets:
Interest-earning assets:
Loans, net of unearned income (FTE) (1)(2)	$	11,432,908	$	125,122	4.44	%	$	8,828,880	$	117,796	5.37	%
Taxable securities (3)	3,686,405		13,298		1.44		2,357,635		15,871		2.69
Tax-exempt securities (FTE) (1)(3)	304,983		2,888		3.79		162,253		2,045		5.04
Federal funds sold and other interest-earning assets	1,357,890		1,222		0.36		448,775		1,632		1.46
Total interest-earning assets (FTE)	16,782,186		142,530		3.44		11,797,543		137,344		4.68

Noninterest-earning assets:
Allowance for credit losses	(143,703)						(69,777)
Cash and due from banks	140,292						128,254
Premises and equipment	221,411						219,243
Other assets (3)	1,023,275						868,452
Total assets	$	18,023,461					$	12,943,715

Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity:
Interest-bearing liabilities:
Interest-bearing deposits:
NOW and interest-bearing demand	$	3,331,043	1,486		0.18		$	2,412,733	2,978		0.50
Money market	3,732,988		1,804		0.20		2,340,723		4,531		0.78
Savings	989,584		49		0.02		712,110		35		0.02
Time	1,642,423		1,588		0.39		1,841,552		7,250		1.58
Brokered time deposits	75,259		292		1.57		80,821		281		1.40
Total interest-bearing deposits	9,771,297		5,219		0.22		7,387,939		15,075		0.82

Federal funds purchased and other borrowings	12		—		—		396		1		1.02
Federal Home Loan Bank advances	3,333		2		0.24		165		1		2.44
Long-term debt	317,172		4,257		5.44		212,762		2,864		5.41
Total borrowed funds	320,517		4,259		5.39		213,323		2,866		5.40
Total interest-bearing liabilities	10,091,814		9,478		0.38		7,601,262		17,941		0.95

Noninterest-bearing liabilities:
Noninterest-bearing deposits	5,594,394						3,527,385
Other liabilities	312,610						162,187
Total liabilities	15,998,818						11,290,834
Shareholders' equity	2,024,643						1,652,881
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	$	18,023,461					$	12,943,715

Net interest revenue (FTE)			$	133,052					$	119,403
Net interest-rate spread (FTE)					3.06	%					3.73	%
Net interest margin (FTE) (4)					3.22	%					4.07	%

(1)Interest revenue on tax-exempt securities and loans has been increased to reflect comparable interest on taxable securities and loans. The rate used was 26%, reflecting the statutory federal income tax rate and the federal tax adjusted state income tax rate.

(2)Included in the average balance of loans outstanding are loans on which the accrual of interest has been discontinued and loans that are held for sale.

(3)AFS securities are shown at amortized cost. Pretax unrealized gains of $58.3 million and $52.9 million in 2021 and 2020, respectively, are included in other assets for purposes of this presentation.

(4)Net interest margin is taxable equivalent net interest revenue divided by average interest-earning assets.

The following table shows the relative effect on net interest revenue for changes in the average outstanding amounts (volume) of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities and the rates earned and paid on such assets and liabilities (rate). Variances resulting from a combination of changes in rate and volume are allocated in proportion to the absolute dollar amounts of the change in each category.


Table 3 - Change in Interest Revenue and Expense on a Taxable Equivalent Basis
(in thousands)


	Three Months Ended March 31, 2021
	Compared to 2020 Increase (Decrease) Due to Changes in
	Volume		Rate		Total
Interest-earning assets:
Loans (FTE)	$	30,863	$	(23,537)	$	7,326
Taxable securities	6,668		(9,241)		(2,573)
Tax-exempt securities (FTE)	1,450		(607)		843
Federal funds sold and other interest-earning assets	1,498		(1,908)		(410)
Total interest-earning assets (FTE)	40,479		(35,293)		5,186

Interest-bearing liabilities:
NOW and interest-bearing demand accounts	863		(2,355)		(1,492)
Money market accounts	1,801		(4,528)		(2,727)
Savings deposits	14		—		14
Time deposits	(710)		(4,952)		(5,662)
Brokered deposits	(20)		31		11
Total interest-bearing deposits	1,948		(11,804)		(9,856)
Federal funds purchased & other borrowings	—		(1)		(1)
FHLB advances	3		(2)		1
Long-term debt	1,401		(8)		1,393
Total borrowed funds	1,404		(11)		1,393
Total interest-bearing liabilities	3,352		(11,815)		(8,463)

Increase in net interest revenue (FTE)	$	37,127	$	(23,478)	$	13,649

Provision for Credit Losses

The ACL represents management’s estimate of life of loan credit losses in the loan portfolio and unfunded loan commitments. Management’s estimate of credit losses under CECL is determined using a model that relies on reasonable and supportable forecasts and historical loss information to determine the balance of the ACL and resulting provision for credit losses.

We recorded a negative provision for credit losses of $12.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2021, compared to $22.2 million in provision expense for the same period in 2020. The amount of provision recorded in each period was the amount required such that the total ACL reflected the appropriate balance as determined by management reflecting expected life of loan losses. The negative provision expense for the three months ended March 31, 2021 compared to the same period of 2020 was primarily a result of an improved economic forecast compared to the first quarter of 2020 combined with net recoveries recognized during the first quarter of 2021. The provision for credit losses for the first quarter of 2020 was elevated due to a less optimistic economic forecast at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

For the three months ended March 31, 2021, net loan charge-offs (recoveries) as an annualized percentage of average outstanding loans were (0.01)% compared to 0.37% for the same period in 2020. The net recoveries amount recorded during the first three months of 2021 was mostly attributable to one large commercial credit.

Additional discussion on credit quality and the ACL is included in the “Asset Quality and Risk Elements” section of MD&A in this Report.

Noninterest Income

The following table presents the components of noninterest income for the periods indicated.


Table 4 - Noninterest Income
(in thousands)


	Three Months Ended March 31,	Change
		2021		2020		Amount		Percent
Service charges and fees:
Overdraft fees		$	2,342	$	3,519	$	(1,177)	(33)	%
ATM and debit card fees		3,090		3,069		21		1
Other service charges and fees		2,138		2,050		88		4
Total service charges and fees		7,570		8,638		(1,068)		(12)
Mortgage loan gains and related fees		22,572		8,310		14,262		172
Wealth management fees		3,505		1,640		1,865		114
Gains on sales of other loans		1,030		1,674		(644)		(38)

Other noninterest income:
Other lending and loan servicing fees		2,160		1,665		495		30
Customer derivatives		1,692		1,407		285		20
Other investment gains (losses)		1,506		(1,157)		2,663
BOLI		857		845		12		1
Treasury management income		645		509		136		27
Other		3,168		2,283		885		39
Total other noninterest income		10,028		5,552		4,476		81
Total noninterest income		$	44,705	$	25,814	$	18,891	73

During the first quarter of 2021, we recognized lower overdraft transaction fees compared to the same period of 2020 due to increased customer deposit account balances resulting from government stimulus payments combined with lower transaction volume due to the COVID-19 pandemic-related shutdown.

Mortgage loan gains and related fees for the first quarter of 2021 increased $14.3 million from the same period of 2020, reflecting an increase in demand for mortgage rate locks and mortgage refinances due to a historically low interest rate environment compared to the same period of 2020. During March of 2020, the national federal funds rate decreased 150 basis points in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. While mortgage interest rates have remained low, rates began trending upward toward the end of the first quarter of 2021. As a result, projected mortgage prepayments decelerated, which resulted in a positive fair value adjustment to the mortgage servicing rights asset, contributing to the increase in mortgage loan gain and related fees for the first quarter of 2021. The following table summarizes mortgage loan sales and closings for the periods presented.


Table 5 - Mortgage Loan Sales
(dollars in thousands)
		Three Months Ended March 31,
		2021		2020		% Change
	Mortgage loans sold	$	335,673	$	259,112	30	%
	# of mortgage loans sold	1,405		1,158		21

	Mortgage loans closed
	Originations	$	292,919	$	218,578	34
	Refinances	363,553		169,281		115
	Total	$	656,472	$	387,859	69

	# of mortgage loans closed	2,142		1,470		46

Wealth management fees for the first quarter of 2021 increased 114% compared to the same period of 2020, which was primarily driven by the addition of Three Shores’ wealth management business.

Gains on the sale of other loans for the first quarter of 2021 decreased $644,000 compared to the same period of 2020. For the periods presented, loans sold consisted of SBA/USDA loans and equipment financing receivables. Our SBA/USDA lending strategy includes selling a portion of the loan production each quarter. The amount of loans sold depends on several variables including the current lending environment and balance sheet management activities. During the first quarter of 2021, we sold more SBA/USDA loans compared to the same period of last year, as market conditions for the sale of these loans has improved since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. In the first quarter of 2020, due to the market disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, we held more of our SBA/USDA loan production in portfolio rather than selling to the secondary market. From time to time, we also sell certain equipment financing receivables. During the first quarter of 2021, we sold a nominal amount of equipment financing receivables compared to the same period of 2020. The following table presents loans sold and the corresponding gains or losses recognized on the sale for the periods indicated.


Table 6 - Other Loan Sales
(in thousands)
		Three Months Ended March 31,
		2021				2020
		Loans Sold		Gain (Loss)		Loans Sold		Gain (Loss)
	Guaranteed portion of SBA/USDA loans	$	11,345	$	1,023	$	4,034	$	415
	Equipment financing receivables	1,059		7		22,217		1,259
	Total	$	12,404	$	1,030	$	26,251	$	1,674

Other noninterest income for the first quarter of 2021 increased from the same period of 2020 primarily due to positive fair value adjustments on deferred compensation plan assets and other investments compared to negative fair value adjustments during the first quarter of 2020, which resulted from the COVID-19 pandemic related market disruption.

Noninterest Expenses

The following table presents the components of noninterest expenses for the periods indicated.


Table 7 - Noninterest Expenses
(in thousands)



	Three Months Ended March 31,	Change
		2021		2020		Amount		Percent
Salaries and employee benefits		$	60,585	$	51,358	$	9,227	18	%
Communications and equipment		7,203		5,946		1,257		21
Occupancy		6,956		5,714		1,242		22
Advertising and public relations		1,199		1,274		(75)		(6)
Postage, printing and supplies		1,822		1,670		152		9
Professional fees		4,234		4,097		137		3
Lending and loan servicing expense		2,877		2,293		584		25
Outside services - electronic banking		2,218		1,832		386		21
FDIC assessments and other regulatory charges		1,896		1,484		412		28
Amortization of core deposit intangibles		985		1,040		(55)		(5)
Other		3,676		4,022		(346)		(9)
Total excluding merger-related and other charges		93,651		80,730		12,921		16
Merger-related and other charges		1,543		808		735

Total noninterest expenses		$	95,194	$	81,538	$	13,656	17

Salaries and employee benefits for the first quarter of 2021 increased 18% from same period of 2020. The increase was primarily attributable to higher mortgage commissions, other incentives and bonus accrual resulting from increased production and strong performance during the first quarter of 2021. The three months ended March 31, 2021 also reflects the addition of Three Shores employees. These increases were partially offset by a decrease in stock compensation expense and an increase in deferred loan costs, resulting from strong loan production, including mortgage and third round PPP loans, compared to the same period of 2020. Full time equivalent headcount totaled 2,396 at March 31, 2021, up from 2,332 at March 31, 2020.

Communications and equipment expense increased primarily due to incremental software contract costs. The increase in occupancy costs for the first quarter of 2021 compared to the same period of 2020 was mostly attributable to the addition of operating lease costs associated with the Three Shores’ locations. The increase in lending and loan servicing expense was driven by strong loan production in the first quarter of 2021. The increase in FDIC assessments and other regulatory charges was primarily attributable to an increased assessment base driven by higher average total assets compared to the first quarter of 2020, partly due to the acquisition of Three Shores. The decrease in other noninterest expense was attributable to lower travel expenses as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and net gains on sale of foreclosed properties during the first quarter of 2021.

Merger-related and other charges for the three months ended March 31, 2021 consisted primarily of merger-related expenses associated with the acquisition of Three Shores, including costs associated with system conversion, which occurred during the first quarter of 2021. Merger-related and other charges for the three months ended March 31, 2020 consisted primarily of merger-related expenses associated with First Madison Bank & Trust and Three Shores, as well as branch closure costs.

Balance Sheet Review

Total assets at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 were $18.6 billion and $17.8 billion, respectively. The increase in assets was primarily evident in loans, which included PPP loan originations during the quarter, and investments. An increase in customer deposits provided liquidity, some of which was strategically deployed to fund a larger investment portfolio. Total liabilities at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 were $16.5 billion and $15.8 billion, respectively, with the increase quarter over quarter primarily due to the aforementioned customer deposit growth. Shareholders’ equity totaled $2.03 billion and $2.01 billion at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively.

Loans

Our loan portfolio is our largest category of interest-earning assets. Total loans averaged $11.4 billion in the first quarter of 2021, compared with $8.83 billion in the first quarter of 2020, an increase of 29%, much of which resulted from the Three Shores acquisition and our participation in the PPP program. At March 31, 2021, total loans were $11.7 billion, an increase of 3%, from December 31, 2020. The following table presents a summary by loan type of the loan portfolio, of which approximately 68% was secured by real estate at March 31, 2021.


Table 8 - Loans Outstanding
(in thousands)


	March 31, 2021				December 31, 2020
	Amortized Cost		% of total loans		Amortized Cost		% of total loans
Owner occupied commercial real estate	$	2,107,153	18	%	$	2,090,443	18	%
Income producing commercial real estate	2,598,482		22		2,540,750		22
Commercial & industrial (1)	2,643,279		23		2,498,560		22
Commercial construction	960,153		8		967,305		9
Equipment financing	912,650		8		863,830		8
Total commercial	9,221,717		79		8,960,888		79
Residential mortgage	1,362,088		12		1,284,920		11
HELOC	679,094		6		697,117		6
Residential construction	271,600		2		281,430		3
Consumer	144,045		1		146,460		1

Total loans	$	11,678,544	100	%	$	11,370,815	100	%

((1) Commercial and industrial loans as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 included $883 million and $646 million of PPP loans, respectively.

Asset Quality and Risk Elements

We manage asset quality and control credit risk through review and oversight of the loan portfolio as well as adherence to policies designed to promote sound underwriting and loan monitoring practices. Our credit administration function is responsible for monitoring asset quality and Board approved portfolio concentration limits, establishing credit policies and procedures and enforcing the consistent application of these policies and procedures. Additional information on our credit administration function is included in Part I, Item 1 under the heading Lending Activities in our 2020 10-K.

We classify loans as “substandard” when there is a well-defined weakness or weaknesses that jeopardizes the repayment by the borrower and there is a distinct possibility that we could sustain some loss if the deficiency is not corrected. Performing substandard loans, which are substandard loans that are still accruing interest, totaled $176 million and $165 million, respectively, at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020.

We conduct reviews of classified performing and non-performing loans, TDRs, past due loans and portfolio concentrations on a regular basis to identify risk migration and potential charges to the ACL. These items are discussed in a series of meetings attended by Credit Risk Management leadership and leadership from various lending groups. In addition to the reviews mentioned above, an independent loan review team reviews the portfolio to ensure consistent application of risk rating policies and procedures.

The ACL reflects management’s assessment of the life of loan expected credit losses in the loan portfolio and unfunded loan commitments. This assessment involves uncertainty and judgment and is subject to change in future periods. The amount of any changes could be significant if management’s assessment of loan quality or collateral values changes substantially with respect to one or more loan relationships or portfolios. The allocation of the ACL is based on reasonable and supportable forecasts, historical data, subjective judgment and estimates and therefore, is not necessarily indicative of the specific amounts or loan categories in which charge-offs may ultimately occur. In addition, bank regulatory authorities, as part of their periodic examination of the Bank, may require adjustments to the provision for credit losses in future periods if, in their opinion, the results of their review warrant such additions. See the Critical Accounting Policies section of MD&A in our 2020 10-K for additional information on the allowance for credit losses.

The following table presents a summary of the changes in the ACL for the periods indicated.


Table 9 - ACL
(in thousands)


	Three Months Ended March 31,
		2021			2020
ACL - loans, beginning of period		$	137,010		$	62,089
Adoption of CECL		—			6,880
ACL - loans, adjusted beginning balance		137,010			68,969



Charge-offs:
Owner occupied commercial real estate		—			6
Income producing commercial real estate		1,007			411
Commercial & industrial		2,894			7,561
Commercial construction		178			—
Equipment financing		2,058			1,863
Residential mortgage		215			284
HELOC		—			20
Residential construction		10			22
Consumer		471			638
Total charge-offs		6,833			10,805
Recoveries:
Owner occupied commercial real estate		240			1,034
Income producing commercial real estate		16			141
Commercial & industrial		5,647			376
Commercial construction		156			141
Equipment financing		547			356
Residential mortgage		123			275
HELOC		73			103
Residential construction		70			34
Consumer		266			231
Total recoveries		7,138			2,691
Net (recoveries) charge-offs		(305)			8,114
(Release of) provision for credit losses - loans		(10,449)			21,050
ACL - loans, end of period		126,866			81,905

ACL - unfunded commitments, beginning of period		10,558			3,458
Adoption of CECL		—			1,871
ACL - unfunded commitments, adjusted beginning balance		10,558			5,329
(Release of) provision for credit losses - unfunded commitments		(1,832)			1,141
ACL - unfunded commitments, end of period		8,726			6,470

Total ACL		$	135,592		$	88,375

Total loans:
At period-end		$	11,678,544		$	8,935,424
Average		11,432,908			8,828,880
ACL - loans, as a percentage of period-end loans		1.09		%	0.92		%
As a percentage of average loans (annualized):
Net charge-offs		(0.01)			0.37
Provision for credit losses - loans		(0.37)			0.96

The reduction in the ACL since December 31, 2020 reflects an improved economic forecast, which includes an improved COVID-19 pandemic outlook, projected GDP growth, and a continued low interest rate environment. Qualitative factors were used to moderate the improvement in the economic forecast for certain portfolios to compensate for the increase in criticized and classified assets at March 31, 2021. In addition, the impact of loan growth on the ACL was partially mitigated by the fact that PPP loans originated during the first quarter of 2021 of approximately $518 million were considered low risk assets due to the 100% guarantee by the SBA.

Nonperforming Assets

NPAs, which include nonaccrual loans and foreclosed properties, totaled $56.5 million at March 31, 2021, compared with $62.2 million at December 31, 2020. The decrease in NPAs since December 31, 2020 is primarily a result of a decrease in nonaccrual loans.

Our policy is to place loans on nonaccrual status when, in the opinion of management, the full principal and interest on a loan is not likely to be collected or when the loan becomes 90 days past due. A loan may continue on accrual after 90 days if it is well collateralized and in the process of collection. When a loan is placed on nonaccrual status, interest previously accrued but not collected is reversed against current interest revenue. Interest payments received on nonaccrual loans are applied to reduce the loan’s amortized cost. Loans are returned to accrual status when all the principal and interest amounts contractually due are brought current, there is a sustained period of repayment performance and future payments are reasonably assured.

Generally, we do not commit to lend additional funds to customers whose loans are on nonaccrual status, although in certain isolated cases, we execute forbearance agreements whereby we agree to continue to fund construction loans to completion or other lines of credit as long as the borrower meets the conditions of the forbearance agreement. We may also fund other amounts necessary to protect collateral such as amounts to pay past due property taxes and insurance coverage.

Foreclosed property is initially recorded at fair value, less estimated costs to sell. If the fair value, less estimated costs to sell, at the time of foreclosure is less than the loan balance, the deficiency is charged against the allowance for loan losses. If the lesser of fair value, less estimated costs to sell, or the listed selling price, less the costs to sell, of the foreclosed property decreases during the holding period, a valuation allowance is established with a charge to foreclosed property expense. When the foreclosed property is sold, a gain or loss is recognized on the sale for the difference between the sales proceeds and the carrying amount of the property.

The table below summarizes NPAs.


Table 10 - NPAs
(in thousands)


	March 31, 2021			December 31, 2020
Nonaccrual loans:
Owner occupied commercial real estate	7,908			8,582
Income producing commercial real estate	13,740			15,149
Commercial & industrial	13,864			16,634
Commercial construction	1,984			1,745
Equipment financing	2,171			3,405
Total commercial	39,667			45,515
Residential mortgage	14,050			12,858
HELOC	1,707			2,487
Residential construction	322			514
Consumer	154			225

Total nonaccrual loans	55,900			61,599
Foreclosed properties	596			647
Total NPAs	$	56,496		$	62,246

Nonaccrual loans as a percentage of total loans	0.48		%	0.54		%
NPAs as a percentage of total loans and foreclosed properties	0.48			0.55
NPAs as a percentage of total assets	0.30			0.35

At March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, we had $59.3 million and $61.6 million, respectively, in loans with terms that have been modified in TDRs. Included therein were $17.3 million and $20.6 million, respectively, of TDRs that were classified as nonaccrual and were included in nonperforming loans. The remaining TDRs with an aggregate balance of $42.0 million and $41.0 million, respectively, were performing according to their modified terms and were therefore not considered to be nonperforming assets.

The CARES Act and interagency guidance granted temporary relief from TDR classification for certain loans restructured as a result of COVID-19. During 2020, we granted a significant number of payment deferral requests to our borrowers related to the economic disruption created by COVID-19. We continued to grant payment deferral requests in 2021 to certain borrowers. The following table presents remaining COVID-19 related deferrals that, to the extent they qualified for exemption, were not considered TDRs as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020.


Table 11 - COVID-19 Deferrals
(in thousands)


	March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
Owner occupied commercial real estate	$	6,399	$	4,774
Income producing commercial real estate	21,734		45,190
Commercial & industrial	1,163		5,682
Commercial construction	73		1,745
Equipment financing	12,135		3,474
Total commercial	41,504		60,865
Residential mortgage	6,165		8,731
HELOC	368		1,012
Residential construction	45		55
Consumer	23		46
Total COVID-19 deferrals	$	48,105	$	70,709

Investment Securities

The composition of the investment securities portfolio reflects our investment strategy of maintaining an appropriate level of liquidity while providing a relatively stable source of revenue. The investment securities portfolio also provides a balance to interest rate risk and credit risk in other categories of the balance sheet while providing a vehicle for the investment of available funds, furnishing liquidity, and supplying securities to pledge as required collateral for certain deposits and borrowings.

At March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, we had HTM debt securities with a carrying amount of $588 million and $420 million, respectively, and AFS debt securities totaling $3.74 billion and $3.22 billion, respectively. The increased balances at March 31, 2021 reflect our decision to deploy liquidity generated through strong deposit growth by purchasing additional investment securities. At March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the securities portfolio represented approximately 23% and 20%, respectively, of total assets.

In accordance with CECL, our HTM debt securities portfolio is evaluated quarterly to assess whether an ACL is required. We measure expected credit losses on HTM debt securities on a collective basis by major security type. The estimate of expected credit losses considers historical credit loss information that is adjusted for current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts. At March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, calculated credit losses on HTM debt securities were not material due to the high credit quality of the portfolio, which included securities issued or guaranteed by U.S. Government agencies, GSEs, high credit quality municipalities and supranational entities. As a result, no ACL for HTM debt securities was recorded.

For AFS debt securities in an unrealized loss position, if we intend to sell, or if it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis, the security's amortized cost basis is written down to fair value through income. Absent an intent or more than likely requirement to sell, we evaluate whether the decline in fair value has resulted from credit losses or other factors. The evaluation considers factors such as the extent to which fair value is less than amortized cost, changes to the security’s rating, and adverse conditions specific to the security. If the evaluation indicates a credit loss exists, an ACL may be recorded, with such allowance limited to the amount by which fair value is below amortized cost. Any impairment unrelated to credit factors is recognized in OCI. At March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, there was no ACL related to the AFS debt securities portfolio. Losses on fixed income securities at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 primarily reflected the effect of changes in interest rates.

Deposits

Customer deposits are the primary source of funds for the continued growth of our earning assets. Our high level of service, as evidenced by our strong customer satisfaction scores, has been instrumental in attracting and retaining customer deposit accounts. In addition to organic growth, at March 31, 2021, the increase in core transaction deposits was also attributable to PPP-related deposits. The following table sets forth the deposit composition for the periods indicated.

Table 12 - Deposits

(in thousands)


	March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
Noninterest-bearing demand	$	6,058,439	$	5,390,291
NOW and interest-bearing demand	3,417,915		3,346,490
Money market and savings	4,729,011		4,501,189
Time	1,587,653		1,704,290
Total customer deposits	15,793,018		14,942,260
Brokered deposits	200,202		290,098
Total deposits	$	15,993,220	$	15,232,358

Borrowing Activities

At March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, we had long-term debt outstanding of $312 million and $327 million, respectively, which includes senior debentures, subordinated debentures, and trust preferred securities. The reduction in long-term debt since December 31, 2020 is a result of the repayment of the 2025 subordinated debentures and the Southern Bancorp Capital Trust I trust preferred securities of $11.3 million and $4.38 million, respectively. During the first quarter of 2021, we also provided a redemption notice to the holders of the 2022 senior debentures of $50.0 million. Repayment is scheduled to occur during the second quarter of 2021.

Contractual Obligations

There have not been any material changes to our contractual obligations since December 31, 2020.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

We are a party to financial instruments with off-balance sheet risk in the normal course of business to meet the financing needs of customers. These financial instruments include commitments to extend credit, letters of credit and financial guarantees.

A commitment to extend credit is an agreement to lend to a customer as long as there is no violation of any condition established in the contract. Commitments generally have fixed expiration dates or other termination clauses and may require payment of a fee. Letters of credit and financial guarantees are conditional commitments issued to guarantee a customer’s performance to a third party and have essentially the same credit risk as extending loan facilities to customers. Those commitments are primarily issued to local businesses.

The exposure to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by the other party to the commitments to extend credit, letters of credit and financial guarantees is represented by the contractual amount of these instruments. We use the same credit underwriting procedures for making commitments, letters of credit and financial guarantees, as we use for underwriting on-balance sheet instruments. Management evaluates each customer’s creditworthiness on a case-by-case basis and the amount of the collateral, if deemed necessary, is based on the credit evaluation. Collateral held varies, but may include unimproved and improved real estate, certificates of deposit, personal property or other acceptable collateral.

All of these instruments involve, to varying degrees, elements of credit risk in excess of the amount recognized in the balance sheet. The total amount of these instruments does not necessarily represent future cash requirements because a significant portion of these instruments expire without being used. We are not involved in off-balance sheet contractual relationships, other than those disclosed in this report, that could result in liquidity needs or other commitments, or that could significantly affect earnings. See Note 22 to the consolidated financial statements included in our 2020 10-K and Note 11 to the consolidated financial statements in this Report for additional information on off-balance sheet arrangements.

Interest Rate Sensitivity Management

The absolute level and volatility of interest rates can have a significant effect on profitability. The objective of interest rate risk management is to identify and manage the sensitivity of net interest revenue to changing interest rates, consistent with our overall financial goals. Based on economic conditions, asset quality and various other considerations, management establishes tolerance ranges for interest rate sensitivity and manages within these ranges.

Net interest revenue and the fair value of financial instruments are influenced by changes in the level of interest rates. We limit our exposure to fluctuations in interest rates through policies established by our ALCO and approved by the Board. The ALCO meets

periodically and has responsibility for formulating and recommending asset/liability management policies to the Board, formulating and implementing strategies to improve balance sheet positioning and/or earnings, and reviewing interest rate sensitivity.

One of the tools management uses to estimate and manage the sensitivity of net interest revenue to changes in interest rates is an asset/liability simulation model. Resulting estimates are based upon several assumptions for each scenario, including loan and deposit re-pricing characteristics and the rate of prepayments. The ALCO periodically reviews the assumptions for reasonableness based on historical data and future expectations; however, actual net interest revenue may differ from model results. The primary objective of the simulation model is to measure the potential change in net interest revenue over time using multiple interest rate scenarios. The base scenario assumes rates remain flat and is the scenario to which all others are compared, in order to measure the change in net interest revenue. Policy limits are based on immediate rate shock scenarios, as well as gradually rising and falling rate scenarios, which are all compared to the base scenario. Our assumptions include floors such that market rates and discount rates do not go below zero. Other scenarios analyzed may include delayed rate shocks, yield curve steepening or flattening, or other variations in rate movements. While the primary policy scenarios focus on a 12-month time frame, longer time horizons are also modeled.

Our policy is based on the 12-month impact on net interest revenue of interest rate shocks and ramps that increase from 100 to 400 basis points or decrease 100 to 200 basis points from the base scenario. In the shock scenarios, rates immediately change the full amount at the scenario onset. In the ramp scenarios, rates change by 25 basis points per month. Our policy limits the projected change in net interest revenue over the first 12 months to an 8% decrease for each 100 basis point change in the increasing and decreasing rate ramp and shock scenarios. The following table presents our interest sensitivity position at the dates indicated.

Table 13 - Interest Sensitivity


	Increase (Decrease) in Net Interest Revenue from Base Scenario at
	March 31, 2021				December 31, 2020
Change in Rates	Shock		Ramp		Shock		Ramp
100 basis point increase	2.84	%	2.17	%	3.80	%	2.88	%
100 basis point decrease	(2.80)		(2.49)		(1.89)		(1.82)

Interest rate sensitivity is a function of the repricing characteristics of the portfolio of assets and liabilities. These repricing characteristics are the time frames within which the interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities are subject to change in interest rates either at replacement, repricing or maturity. Interest rate sensitivity management focuses on the maturity structure of assets and liabilities and their repricing characteristics during periods of changes in market interest rates. Effective interest rate sensitivity management seeks to ensure that both assets and liabilities respond to changes in interest rates on a net basis within an acceptable timeframe, thereby minimizing the potentially adverse effect of interest rate changes on net interest revenue.

We have discretion in the extent and timing of deposit repricing depending upon the competitive pressures in the markets in which we operate. Changes in the mix of earning assets or supporting liabilities can either increase or decrease the net interest margin without affecting interest rate sensitivity. The interest rate spread between an asset and its supporting liability can vary significantly even when the timing of repricing for both the asset and the liability remains the same, due to the two instruments repricing according to different indices. This is commonly referred to as basis risk.

Derivative financial instruments are used to manage interest rate sensitivity. These contracts generally consist of interest rate swaps under which we pay a variable rate (or fixed rate, as the case may be) and receive a fixed rate (or variable rate, as the case may be). In addition, investment securities and wholesale funding strategies are used to manage interest rate risk.

Derivative financial instruments that are designated as accounting hedges are classified as either cash flow or fair value hedges. The change in fair value of cash flow hedges is recognized in OCI. Fair value hedges recognize in earnings both the effect of the change in the fair value of the derivative financial instrument and the offsetting effect of the change in fair value of the hedged asset or liability associated with the particular risk of that asset or liability being hedged. We have other derivative financial instruments that are not designated as accounting hedges, but are used for interest rate risk management purposes and as effective economic hedges. Derivative financial instruments that are not accounted for as accounting hedges are marked to market through earnings.

Our policy requires all non-customer derivative financial instruments be used only for asset/liability management through the hedging of specific transactions, positions or risks, and not for trading or speculative purposes. Management believes that the risk associated with using derivative financial instruments to mitigate interest rate risk sensitivity is appropriately monitored and controlled and will not have any material adverse effect on financial condition or results of operations. In order to mitigate potential credit risk, from time to time we may require the counterparties to derivative contracts to pledge cash and/or securities as collateral to cover the net exposure.

Liquidity Management

Liquidity is defined as the ability to convert assets into cash or cash equivalents without significant loss and to raise additional funds by increasing liabilities. Liquidity management involves maintaining the ability to meet the daily cash flow requirements of customers, both depositors and borrowers. The primary objective is to ensure that sufficient funding is available, at a reasonable cost, to meet ongoing operational cash needs and to take advantage of revenue producing opportunities as they arise. While the desired level of liquidity will vary depending upon a variety of factors, our primary goal is to maintain a sufficient level of liquidity in all expected economic environments. To assist in determining the adequacy of our liquidity, we perform a variety of liquidity stress tests. We maintain an unencumbered liquid asset reserve to help ensure our ability to meet our obligations under normal conditions for at least a 12-month period and under severely adverse liquidity conditions for a minimum of 30 days.

An important part of the Bank’s liquidity resides in the asset portion of the balance sheet, which provides liquidity primarily through loan interest and principal repayments and the maturities and sales of securities, as well as the ability to use these assets as collateral for borrowings on a secured basis.

The Bank’s main source of liquidity is customer interest-bearing and noninterest-bearing deposit accounts. Liquidity is also available from wholesale funding sources consisting primarily of Federal funds purchased, FHLB advances, and brokered deposits. These sources of liquidity are generally short-term in nature and are used as necessary to fund asset growth and meet other short-term liquidity needs.

In addition, because the Holding Company is a separate entity and apart from the Bank, it must provide for its own liquidity. The Holding Company is responsible for the payment of dividends declared for its common and preferred shareholders, and interest and principal on any outstanding debt or trust preferred securities. The Holding Company currently has internal capital resources to meet these obligations. While the Holding Company has access to the capital markets and maintains a line of credit as a contingent funding source, the ultimate sources of its liquidity are subsidiary service fees and dividends from the Bank, which are limited by applicable law and regulations. Holding Company liquidity is managed to a minimum of 15-months of positive cash flow after considering all of its liquidity needs over this period.

At March 31, 2021, we had sufficient qualifying collateral to provide borrowing capacity for FHLB advances of $1.46 billion and Federal Reserve discount window borrowing capacity of $1.63 billion, as well as unpledged investment securities of $3.10 billion that could be used as collateral for additional borrowings. In addition to these wholesale sources, we have the ability to attract retail deposits by competing more aggressively on pricing.

As disclosed in the consolidated statement of cash flows, net cash provided by operating activities was $34.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2021. Net income of $73.7 million for the three-month period included non-cash expense and income items consisting primarily of the following: release of provision of $12.3 million, deferred income tax expense of $9.17 million, stock-based compensation expense of $1.51 million, net gains on the sales of other loans of $1.03 million and net depreciation, amortization and accretion income of $681,000. Uses of cash from operating activities included an increase in loans held for sale of $59.5 million, which was partially offset by cash provided by a decrease in other assets and accrued interest receivable of $15.2 million and an increase in accrued expenses and other liabilities of $8.65 million. Net cash used in investing activities of $1.04 billion included a $293 million net increase in loans, $760 million in purchases of AFS debt securities, $193 million in purchases of HTM debt securities, $5.75 million in additional investments in equity investments and $2.49 million in purchases of premises and equipment. These uses of cash were partially offset by $184 million in proceeds from maturities and calls of AFS debt securities, $24.6 million in proceeds from maturities and calls of HTM debt securities and $4.98 million in receipts from equity investments. Net cash provided by financing activities of $728 million consisted primarily of a net increase in deposits of $762 million, which was partially offset by the repayment of long-term debt of $15.6 million and payment of cash dividends on common and preferred stock of $17.6 million. In the opinion of management, our liquidity position at March 31, 2021 was sufficient to meet our expected cash flow requirements.

Capital Resources and Dividends

Shareholders’ equity at March 31, 2021 was $2.03 billion, an increase of $23.6 million from December 31, 2020 primarily due to year-to-date earnings partially offset by dividends declared and a decrease in the value of AFS securities.

The following table shows capital ratios, as calculated under applicable regulatory guidelines, at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020. As of March 31, 2021, capital levels remained characterized as “well-capitalized” under prompt corrective action provisions in effect at the time. The decrease in the Bank’s ratios as of March 31, 2021 was primarily attributable to a dividend paid to the Holding Company.

Additional information related to capital ratios, as calculated under regulatory guidelines, as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, is provided in Note 10 to the consolidated financial statements.

Table 14 – Capital Ratios


							United Community Banks, Inc. (Consolidated)				United Community Bank
	Minimum		Well- Capitalized		Minimum Capital Plus Capital Conservation Buffer		March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020		March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
Risk-based ratios:
CET1 capital	4.5	%	6.5	%	7.0	%	12.34	%	12.31	%	12.80	%	13.31	%
Tier 1 capital	6.0		8.0		8.5		13.11		13.10		12.80		13.31
Total capital	8.0		10.0		10.5		14.92		15.15		13.66		14.28
Leverage ratio	4.0		5.0		N/A		9.39		9.28		9.13		9.42

Effect of Inflation and Changing Prices

A bank’s asset and liability structure is substantially different from that of an industrial firm in that primarily all assets and liabilities of a bank are monetary in nature with relatively little investment in fixed assets or inventories. Inflation has an important effect on the growth of total assets and the resulting need to increase equity capital at higher than normal rates in order to maintain an appropriate equity to assets ratio.

Management believes the effect of inflation on financial results depends on our ability to react to changes in interest rates, and by such reaction, reduce the inflationary effect on performance. We have an asset/liability management program to manage interest rate sensitivity. In addition, periodic reviews of banking services and products are conducted to adjust pricing in view of current and expected costs.

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure About Market Risk

There have been no material changes in our market risk as of March 31, 2021 from that presented in our 2020 10-K. Our interest rate sensitivity position at March 31, 2021 is set forth in Table 13 in MD&A of this Report and incorporated herein by this reference.

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

(a) Disclosure Controls and Procedures. Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, we conducted an evaluation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as such term is defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(e)) as of March 31, 2021. Based on that evaluation, our principal executive officer and chief financial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end of the period covered by this report.

(b) Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. No change in our internal control over financial reporting (as such term is defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(f)) occurred during the fiscal quarter ended March 31, 2021 that materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

Part II. OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

In the ordinary course of business, the Holding Company and the Bank are parties to various legal proceedings. Additionally, in the ordinary course of business, the Holding Company and the Bank are subject to regulatory examinations and investigations. Based on our current knowledge and advice of counsel, in the opinion of management there is no such pending or threatened legal matter which would result in a material adverse effect upon our consolidated financial condition or results of operations.

Items 1A. Risk Factors

There have been no material changes to the risk factors previously disclosed in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 filed with the SEC on February 25, 2021.

Item 6. Exhibits

(d) Exhibits. See Exhibit Index below.


EXHIBIT INDEX

Exhibit No.						Description

3.1						Restated Articles of Incorporation of United Community Banks, Inc., as amended to date (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to United Community Banks, Inc.’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2020, filed with the SEC on August 6, 2020).

3.2						Amended and Restated Bylaws of United Community Banks, Inc., as amended (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to United Community Banks, Inc.’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2015, filed with the SEC on May 11, 2015).











31.1						Certification by H. Lynn Harton, President and Chief Executive Officer of United Community Banks, Inc., pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 13a-14(a).

31.2						Certification by Jefferson L. Harralson, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of United Community Banks, Inc., pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 13a-14(a).

32						Certification of CEO and CFO pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350.

101						Interactive data files for United Community Bank, Inc.’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2021, formatted in Inline XBRL: (i) the Consolidated Balance Sheets (unaudited); (ii) the Consolidated Statements of Income (unaudited); (iii) the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (unaudited); (iv) the Consolidated Statements in Shareholders’ Equity (unaudited); (v) the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (unaudited); and (vi) the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited).













104						The cover page from United Community Bank’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2021 (formatted in Inline XBRL and included in Exhibit 101)

Signatures

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


			UNITED COMMUNITY BANKS, INC.

			/s/ H. Lynn Harton
			H. Lynn Harton
			President and Chief Executive Officer
			(Principal Executive Officer)

			/s/ Jefferson L. Harralson
			Jefferson L. Harralson
			Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
			(Principal Financial Officer)

			/s/ Alan H. Kumler
			Alan H. Kumler
			Senior Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer
			(Principal Accounting Officer)

			Date: May 7, 2021

Document

Exhibit 31.1

I, H. Lynn Harton, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of United Community Banks, Inc. (the “Registrant”);

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a - 15(f) and 15d - 15(f)) for the registrant and have:

a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5. The registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.



Date: May 7, 2021
						/s/ H. Lynn Harton
						H. Lynn Harton
						President and Chief Executive Officer of the Registrant

Document

Exhibit 31.2

I, Jefferson L. Harralson, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of United Community Banks, Inc. (the “Registrant”);

b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.



Date: May 7, 2021
						/s/ Jefferson L. Harralson
						Jefferson L. Harralson
						Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the Registrant

Document

Exhibit 32

CERTIFICATIONS PURSUANT TO

18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,

AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO

SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

In connection with the Quarterly Report of United Community Banks, Inc. (“United”) on Form 10-Q for the period ending March 31, 2021 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), each of the undersigned officers of United certifies, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:

(1)The Report fully complies with the requirements of section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

(2)The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of United.


						/s/ H. Lynn Harton
			Name:			H. Lynn Harton
			Title:			President and Chief Executive Officer
			Date:			May 7, 2021

						/s/ Jefferson L. Harralson
			Name:			Jefferson L. Harralson
			Title:			Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
			Date:			May 7, 2021