AGREEMENT OF REORGANIZATION AND MERGER
BETWEEN
FIRST MERCHANTS CORPORATION
AND
XXX FINANCIAL CORPORATION
THIS AGREEMENT OF REORGANIZATION AND MERGER (the "Agreement"), is entered
this 20th day of August, 1998, by and between FIRST MERCHANTS CORPORATION
("First Merchants") and XXX FINANCIAL CORPORATION ("Xxx Financial").
W I T N E S S E T H:
WHEREAS, First Merchants is a corporation duly organized and existing under
the laws of the State of Indiana and a registered bank holding company under the
Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended, with its principal place of
business in Muncie, Delaware County, Indiana;
WHEREAS, Xxx Financial is a corporation duly organized and existing under
the laws of the State of Indiana and a registered bank holding company under the
Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended, with its principal place of
business in Portland, Xxx County, Indiana;
WHEREAS, The First National Bank of Portland (the "Bank") is a national
bank duly organized and existing under the laws of the United States and a
wholly-owned subsidiary of Xxx Financial with its principal banking office in
Portland, Xxx County, Indiana;
WHEREAS, it is the desire of First Merchants and Xxx Financial to effect a
transaction whereby the Bank will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of First
Merchants through a statutory merger of Xxx Financial with and into First
Merchants; and
WHEREAS, a majority of the entire Board of Directors of First Merchants and
a majority of the entire Board of Directors of Xxx Financial have approved this
Agreement, designated it as a plan of reorganization within the provisions of
Section 368(a)(1)(A) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the
"Code"), and authorized its execution.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises, covenants, and
agreements herein contained and other good and valuable consideration, the
receipt of which is
Ex. 10(h)-1
hereby acknowledged, First Merchants and Xxx Financial hereby make this
Agreement and prescribe the terms and conditions of the merger of Xxx Financial
with and into First Merchants and the mode of carrying the transaction into
effect as follows:
SECTION 1
THE MERGER
1.01. MERGER. Subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, on
the Effective Date (as defined in Section 11 hereof), Xxx Financial shall be
merged into and under the Articles of Incorporation of First Merchants, which
shall be the "Continuing Company" and which shall continue its corporate
existence under the laws of the State of Indiana, pursuant to the provisions of
and with the effect provided in the Indiana Business Corporation Law and
particularly Indiana Code Chapter 23-1-40 (the "Merger").
1.02. RIGHT TO REVISE MERGER. First Merchants may, at any time, change
the method of effecting the Merger if and to the extent First Merchants deems
such change to be desirable, including, without limitation, to provide for the
merger of Xxx Financial and a wholly-owned subsidiary of First Merchants;
provided, however, that no such change, modification or amendment shall (a)
alter or change the amount or kind of consideration to be received by the
shareholders of Xxx Financial specified in Section 3 hereof as a result of the
Merger, (ii) adversely affect the tax treatment to the shareholders of Xxx
Financial, or (iii) materially impede or delay receipt of any approvals referred
to in this Agreement or the consummation of the transactions contemplated by
this Agreement.
SECTION 2
EFFECT OF THE MERGER
Upon the Merger becoming effective:
2.01. GENERAL DESCRIPTION. The separate existence of Xxx Financial shall
cease and the Continuing Company shall possess all of the assets of Xxx
Financial including all of the issued and outstanding shares of capital stock of
the Bank and all of its rights, privileges, immunities, powers, and franchises
and shall be subject to and assume all of the duties and liabilities of Xxx
Financial.
2.02. NAME, OFFICES, AND MANAGEMENT. The name of the Continuing Company
shall continue to be "First Merchants Corporation." Its principal banking
office shall be located at 000 X. Xxxxxxx Xxxxxx, Xxxxxx, Xxxxxxx. The Board of
Directors of the Continuing Company, until such time as their successors have
been elected and qualified, shall consist of the current
Ex. 10(h)-2
Board of Directors of First Merchants. The officers of First Merchants
immediately prior to the Effective Date shall continue as the officers of the
Continuing Company.
2.03. CAPITAL STRUCTURE. The amount of capital stock of the Continuing
Company shall not be less than the capital stock of First Merchants immediately
prior to the Effective Date increased by the amount of capital stock issued in
accordance with Section 3 hereof.
2.04. ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION AND BYLAWS. The Articles of Incorporation
and Bylaws of the Continuing Company shall be those of First Merchants
immediately prior to the Effective Date until the same shall be further amended
as provided by law.
2.05. ASSETS AND LIABILITIES. The title to all assets, real estate and
other property owned by First Merchants and Xxx Financial shall vest in the
Continuing Company without reversion or impairment. All liabilities of Xxx
Financial shall be assumed by the Continuing Company.
2.06. ADDITIONAL ACTIONS. If, at any time after the Effective Date, the
Continuing Company shall consider or be advised that any further deeds,
assignments or assurances in law or any other acts are necessary or desirable
(a) to vest, perfect or confirm, of record or otherwise, in the Continuing
Company its right, title or interest in, to or under any of the rights,
properties or assets of Xxx Financial or the Bank, or (b) otherwise carry out
the purposes of this Agreement, Xxx Financial and the Bank and their respective
officers and directors shall be deemed to have granted to the Continuing Company
an irrevocable power of attorney to execute and deliver all such deeds,
assignments or assurances in law and to do all acts necessary or proper to vest,
perfect or confirm title to and possession of such rights, properties or assets
in the Continuing Company and otherwise to carry out the purposes of this
Agreement, and the officers and directors of the Continuing Company are
authorized in the name of Xxx Financial or the Bank or otherwise to take any and
all such action.
SECTION 3
CONSIDERATION TO BE
DISTRIBUTED TO SHAREHOLDERS OF XXX FINANCIAL
3.01. CONSIDERATION. Upon and by reason of the Merger becoming effective,
the shareholders of Xxx Financial of record on the Effective Date who have not
dissented to the Merger in accordance with Indiana Code Section 23-1-44, as
amended, shall be entitled to receive eight and 94454/100,000 (8.94454) shares
of First Merchants common stock for each share of Xxx Financial common stock
held (the "Conversion Ratio"). The Conversion Ratio shall be subject to
adjustment as set forth in Sections 3.03 and 3.04 hereof.
Ex. 10(h)-3
3.02. NO FRACTIONAL FIRST MERCHANTS COMMON SHARES. Certificates for
fractional shares of common stock of First Merchants shall not be issued in
respect of fractional interests arising from the Conversion Ratio. Each Xxx
Financial shareholder who would otherwise have been entitled to a fraction of a
First Merchants share, upon surrender of all of his/her certificates
representing Xxx Financial common shares, shall be paid in cash (without
interest) in an amount equal to the fraction of the average of the closing price
of First Merchants common stock as quoted by NASDAQ for the five (5) business
days preceding the Effective Date. No such shareholder of Xxx Financial shall
be entitled to dividends, voting rights or any other rights in respect of any
fractional share.
3.03. RECAPITALIZATION. If, between the date of this Agreement and the
Effective Date, First Merchants issues a stock dividend with respect to its
shares of common stock, combines, subdivides, or splits up its outstanding
shares or takes any similar recapitalization action, then the number of shares
of First Merchants common stock into which each outstanding Xxx Financial share
will be converted under Section 3.01 hereof shall be adjusted so that each Xxx
Financial shareholder shall receive such number of First Merchants shares as
represents the same percentage of outstanding shares of First Merchants common
stock at the Effective Date as would have been represented by the number of
shares such shareholder would have received if the recapitalization had not
occurred.
3.04. CONVERSION RATIO ADJUSTMENT.
(a) As used in this Section 3.04, the term "First Merchants Average
Price" shall mean the average of the daily closing prices of the common
stock of First Merchants as reported in The Wall Street Journal (Midwest
Edition) for the ten (10) NASDAQ trading days preceding the fifth (5th)
calendar day prior to the Closing (the "Determination Date"). The First
Merchants Average Price shall be appropriately and proportionately adjusted
to reflect any share adjustment as contemplated by Section 3.03 hereof.
(b) Xxx Financial may terminate this Agreement if its Board of
Directors so determines by a vote of a majority of the members of its
entire Board of Directors if the First Merchants Average Price shall be
less than $34.40; subject, however, to the following two provisions. If
Xxx Financial elects to exercise its right of termination pursuant to the
immediately preceding sentence, it shall give written notice to First
Merchants within twenty-four (24) hours of the Determination Date. Within
two (2) business days after the date of receipt of such notice, First
Merchants shall have the option of adjusting the Conversion Ratio to equal
a number equal to a quotient, the numerator of which is the product of
$34.40 and the Conversion Ratio (as then in effect) and the denominator of
which is the First Merchants Average Price. If First Merchants makes an
election contemplated by the preceding sentence, it shall give prompt
written notice to Xxx Financial of such election and the revised Conversion
Ex. 10(h)-4
Ratio, whereupon no termination shall have occurred pursuant to this
Section 3.04(b) and this Agreement shall remain in effect in accordance
with its terms (except as the Conversion Ratio shall have been so
modified), and any references in this Agreement to "Conversion Ratio" shall
thereafter be deemed to refer to the Conversion Ratio as adjusted pursuant
to this Section 3.04(b).
(c) First Merchants may terminate this Agreement if its Board of
Directors so determines by a vote of a majority of the members of its
entire Board of Directors if the First Merchants Average Price shall be
greater than $51.60; subject, however, to the following two provisions. If
First Merchants elects to exercise its right of termination pursuant to the
immediately preceding sentence, it shall give written notice to Xxx
Financial within twenty-four (24) hours of the Determination Date. Within
two (2) business days after the date of receipt of such notice, Xxx
Financial shall have the option of adjusting the Conversion Ratio to equal
a number equal to a quotient, the numerator of which is the product of
$51.60 and the Conversion Ratio (as then in effect) and the denominator of
which is the First Merchants Average Price. If Xxx Financial makes an
election contemplated by the preceding sentence, it shall give prompt
written notice to First Merchants of such election and the revised
Conversion Ratio, whereupon no termination shall have occurred pursuant to
this Section 3.04(c) and this Agreement shall remain in effect in
accordance with its terms (except as the Conversion Ratio shall have been
so modified), and any references in this Agreement to "Conversion Ratio"
shall thereafter be deemed to refer to the Conversion Ratio as adjusted
pursuant to this Section 3.04(c).
3.05. DISTRIBUTION OF FIRST MERCHANTS COMMON STOCK AND CASH.
(a) Each share of common stock of First Merchants outstanding
immediately prior to the Effective Date shall remain outstanding unaffected
by the Merger.
(b) Following the Effective Date, distribution of stock certificates
representing First Merchants common stock and cash payments for fractional
shares shall be made by First Merchants to each former shareholder of Xxx
Financial within ten (10) days of such shareholder's delivery of his/her
certificates representing common stock of Xxx Financial to the conversion
agent, First Merchants Bank (the "Conversion Agent"). Certificates
surrendered for exchange by a person who is deemed to be an "affiliate" (as
defined in Section 7.06 hereof) of Xxx Financial shall not be exchanged
until First Merchants has received a written agreement from such affiliate
as required pursuant to Section 7.06 hereof. Interest shall not accrue or
be payable with respect to any cash payments.
(c) Following the Effective Date, stock certificates representing Xxx
Financial common stock shall be deemed to evidence only the right to
receive
Ex. 10(h)-5
ownership of First Merchants common stock (for all corporate purposes other
than the payment of dividends) and cash for fractional shares, as
applicable. No dividends or other distributions otherwise payable
subsequent to the Effective Date on stock of First Merchants shall be paid
to any shareholder entitled to receive the same until such shareholder has
surrendered his/her certificates for Xxx Financial common stock to the
Conversion Agent in exchange for certificates representing First Merchants
common stock and cash. Upon surrender, there shall be paid to the
recordholder of the new certificate(s) evidencing shares of First Merchants
common stock the amount of all dividends and other distributions, without
interest thereon, withheld with respect to such common stock.
(d) At or after the Effective Date, there shall be no transfers on
the stock transfer books of Xxx Financial of any shares of the common stock
of Xxx Financial. If, after the Effective Date, certificates are presented
for transfer to Xxx Financial, such certificates shall be cancelled and
exchanged for the consideration set forth in Section 3.01 hereof, as
adjusted pursuant to the terms of this Agreement.
(e) First Merchants shall be entitled to rely upon the stock transfer
books of Xxx Financial to establish the persons entitled to receive cash
and shares of common stock of First Merchants, which books, in the absence
of actual knowledge by First Merchants of any adverse claim thereto, shall
be conclusive with respect to the ownership of such stock.
(f) With respect to any certificate for shares of Xxx Financial
common stock which has been lost, stolen, or destroyed, First Merchants
shall be authorized to issue common stock to the registered owner of such
certificate upon receipt of an affidavit of lost stock certificate, in form
and substance satisfactory to First Merchants, and upon compliance by the
Xxx Financial shareholder with all procedures historically required by Xxx
Financial in connection with lost, stolen, or destroyed certificates.
SECTION 4
DISSENTING SHAREHOLDERS
Shareholders of Xxx Financial shall have the rights accorded to dissenting
shareholders under Indiana Code Section 23-1-44, as amended.
Ex. 10(h)-6
SECTION 5
REPRESENTATIONS AND
WARRANTIES OF XXX FINANCIAL
Xxx Financial represents and warrants to First Merchants with respect to
itself and the Bank as follows: (For the purposes of this Section, a
"Disclosure Letter" is defined as a letter referencing Section 5 of this
Agreement which shall be prepared and executed by an authorized executive
officer of Xxx Financial and delivered to and initialed by an authorized
executive officer of First Merchants as provided in Section 7.08 hereof.)
5.01. ORGANIZATION AND AUTHORITY. Xxx Financial is a corporation duly
organized and validly existing under the laws of the State of Indiana, and the
Bank is a national bank duly organized and validly existing under the laws of
the United States. Xxx Financial and the Bank have the power and authority
(corporate and other) to conduct their respective businesses in the manner and
by the means utilized as of the date hereof. Xxx Financial's only subsidiary is
the Bank, and the Bank has no subsidiaries. The Bank is subject to primary
federal regulatory supervision and regulation by the Office of the Comptroller
of the Currency.
5.02. AUTHORIZATION.
(a) Xxx Financial has the corporate power and authority to enter into
this Agreement and to carry out its obligations hereunder. This Agreement,
when executed and delivered, will have been duly authorized and will
constitute a valid and binding obligation of Xxx Financial, enforceable in
accordance with its terms except to the extent limited by insolvency,
reorganization, liquidation, readjustment of debt or other laws of general
application relating to or affecting the enforcement of creditors' rights.
(b) Neither the execution of this Agreement, nor the consummation of
the transactions contemplated hereby, does or will (i) conflict with,
result in a breach of, or constitute a default under Xxx Financial's
Articles of Incorporation or By-Laws; (ii) conflict with, result in a
breach of, or constitute a default under any federal, foreign, state or
local law, statute, ordinance, rule, regulation or court or administrative
order or decree, or any note, bond, indenture, mortgage, security
agreement, contract, arrangement or commitment, to which Xxx Financial or
the Bank is subject or bound, the result of which would materially affect
the business or financial condition of Xxx Financial or the Bank; (iii)
result in the creation of or give any person, corporation or entity, the
right to create any lien, charge, encumbrance, security interest, or any
other rights of others or other adverse interest upon any right, property
or asset of Xxx Financial or the Bank; (iv) terminate or give any person,
corporation or entity, the right to terminate, amend, abandon, or refuse to
perform any note, bond, indenture, mortgage, security agreement, contract,
arrangement or commitment to which Xxx
Ex. 10(h)-7
Financial or the Bank is subject or bound; or (v) accelerate or modify, or
give any party thereto the right to accelerate or modify, the time within
which, or the terms according to which, Xxx Financial or the Bank is to
perform any duties or obligations or receive any rights or benefits under
any note, bond, indenture, mortgage, security agreement, contract,
arrangement or commitment.
(c) Other than in connection or in compliance with the provisions of
the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, federal and state securities laws and
applicable Indiana banking and corporate statutes, all as amended, and the
rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, no notice to, filing with,
authorization of, exemption by, or consent or approval of, any public body
or authority is necessary for the consummation by Xxx Financial of the
transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
5.03. CAPITALIZATION.
(a) As of June 30, 1998, Xxx Financial had 500,000 shares of Class A
voting common stock authorized, no par value per share, 64,234 shares of
which were issued and outstanding, and 40,000 shares of Class B non-voting
common stock authorized, no par value per share, 17,666 shares of which
were issued and outstanding, for an aggregate number of shares of common
stock issued and outstanding of 81,900 shares. Such issued and outstanding
shares of Xxx Financial common stock have been duly and validly authorized
by all necessary corporate action of Xxx Financial, are validly issued,
fully paid and nonassessable and have not been issued in violation of any
preemptive rights of any shareholders. Xxx Financial has no intention or
obligation to authorize or issue additional shares of its common stock.
Xxx Financial has not authorized the issuance of any other class of stock.
On a consolidated basis as of June 30, 1998, Xxx Financial had total
capital of $14,282,735.38, which consisted of voting common stock of
$64,234.00, nonvoting common stock of $17,666.00, capital surplus of
$775,244.44, and retained earnings of $13,455,462.35.
(b) As of June 30, 1998, the Bank had 40,000 shares of common stock
authorized, $5 par value per share, all of which shares were issued and
outstanding to Xxx Financial. Such issued and outstanding shares of Bank
common stock have been duly and validly authorized by all necessary
corporate action of the Bank, are validly issued, fully paid and
nonassessable, and have not been issued in violation of any preemptive
rights of any Bank shareholders. All the issued and outstanding shares of
Bank common stock are owned by Xxx Financial free and clear of all liens,
pledges, charges, claims, encumbrances, restrictions, security interests,
options and preemptive rights and of all other rights of any other person,
corporation or entity with respect thereto. As of June 30, 1998, the Bank
had total capital of $13,984,368, which consisted of common stock of
$200,000, capital surplus of $3,010,000, and retained earnings of
$10,804,239.
Ex. 10(h)-8
(c) There are no options, commitments, calls, agreements,
understandings, arrangements or subscription rights regarding the issuance,
purchase or acquisition of capital stock, or any securities convertible
into or representing the right to purchase or otherwise receive the capital
stock or any debt securities, of Xxx Financial or the Bank by which Xxx
Financial or the Bank is or may become bound. Neither Xxx Financial or the
Bank has any outstanding contractual or other obligation to repurchase,
redeem or otherwise acquire any of its respective outstanding shares of
capital stock.
(d) Except as set forth in the Disclosure Letter, no person or entity
beneficially owns 5% or more of Xxx Financial's outstanding shares of
common stock.
(e) Neither Xxx Financial nor the Bank has taken or agreed to take
any action or has any knowledge of any fact or circumstance and neither Xxx
Financial nor the Bank will take any action that would prevent the Merger
from qualifying for pooling-of-interests accounting treatment.
5.04. ORGANIZATIONAL DOCUMENTS. The respective Articles of Incorporation
or Association and By-Laws of Xxx Financial and the Bank have been delivered to
First Merchants and represent true, accurate and complete copies of such
corporate documents of Xxx Financial and the Bank in effect as of the date of
this Agreement.
5.05. COMPLIANCE WITH LAW. Neither Xxx Financial nor the Bank has engaged
in any activity nor taken or omitted to take any action which has resulted or,
to the knowledge of Xxx Financial could result, in the violation of any local,
state, federal or foreign law, statute, rule, regulation or ordinance or of any
order, injunction, judgment or decree of any court or government agency or body,
the violation of which could materially affect the business, prospects,
condition (financial or otherwise) or results of operations of Xxx Financial or
the Bank. Xxx Financial and the Bank possess all licenses, franchises, permits
and other authorizations necessary for the continued conduct of their respective
businesses without material interference or interruption and such licenses,
franchises, permits and authorizations shall be transferred to First Merchants
on the Effective Date without any restrictions or limitations thereon or the
need to obtain any consents of third parties. All agreements and understandings
with, and all orders and directives of, all regulatory agencies or government
authorities with respect to the business or operations of Xxx Financial or the
Bank, including all correspondence, communications and commitments related
thereto, are set forth in the Disclosure Letter. The Bank has received no
inquiries from any regulatory agency or government authority relating to its
compliance with the Bank Secrecy Act, the Truth-in-Lending Act or the Community
Reinvestment Act or any laws with respect to the protection of the environment
or the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.
Ex. 10(h)-9
5.06. ACCURACY OF STATEMENTS. Neither this Agreement nor any report,
statement, list, certificate or other information furnished or to be furnished
by Xxx Financial or the Bank to First Merchants in connection with this
Agreement or any of the transactions contemplated hereby (including, without
limitation, any information which has been or shall be supplied by Xxx Financial
or the Bank with respect to their businesses, operations and financial condition
for inclusion in the proxy statement and registration statement relating to the
Merger) contains or shall contain (in the case of information relating to the
proxy statement at the time it is mailed and for the registration statement at
the time it becomes effective) any untrue statement of a material fact or omits
or shall omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements
contained herein or therein not misleading.
5.07. LITIGATION AND PENDING PROCEEDINGS. Except as set forth in the
Disclosure Letter, there are no claims of any kind, nor any action, suits,
proceedings, arbitrations or investigations pending or to the knowledge of Xxx
Financial or the Bank threatened in any court or before any government agency or
body, arbitration panel or otherwise (nor does Xxx Financial or the Bank have
any knowledge of a basis for any claim, action, suit, proceeding, arbitration or
investigation) against, by or materially adversely affecting Xxx Financial or
the Bank or their respective businesses, prospects, conditions (financial or
otherwise), results of operations or assets, or which would prevent the
performance of this Agreement or declare the same unlawful or cause the
rescission hereof. There are no material uncured violations, or violations with
respect to which material refunds or restitutions may be required, cited in any
compliance report to Xxx Financial or the Bank as a result of an examination by
any regulatory agency or body.
5.08. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
(a) Xxx Financial's consolidated balance sheets as of the end of the
three fiscal years ended December 31, 1995, 1996 and 1997 and the six
months ended June 30, 1998 and the related consolidated statements of
income, shareholders' equity and cash flows for the years or period then
ended (hereinafter collectively referred to as the "Financial Information")
present fairly the consolidated financial condition or position of Xxx
Financial as of the respective dates thereof and the consolidated results
of operations of Xxx Financial for the respective periods covered thereby
and have been prepared in conformity with generally accepted accounting
principles applied on a consistent basis.
(b) All loans reflected in the Financial Information and which have
been made, extended or acquired since June 30, 1998, (i) have been made for
good, valuable and adequate consideration in the ordinary course of
business; (ii) constitute the legal, valid and binding obligation of the
obligor and any guarantor named therein; (iii) are evidenced by notes,
instruments or other evidences of indebtedness which are true, genuine and
what they purport to be; and (iv) to the extent that the Bank has a
security
Ex. 10(h)-10
interest in collateral or a mortgage securing such loans, are secured by
perfected security interests or mortgages naming the Bank as the secured
party or mortgagee, except for such unperfected security interests or
mortgages naming the Bank as secured party or mortgagee which, on an
individual loan basis, would not materially adversely affect the value of
any such loan and the recovery of payment on any such loan if the Bank is
not able to enforce any such security interest or mortgage.
5.09. ABSENCE OF CERTAIN CHANGES. Except for events and conditions
relating to the business environment in general or as set forth in the
Disclosure Letter, since June 30, 1998, no events or conditions of any
character, whether actual, threatened or contemplated, have occurred, or, to the
knowledge of Xxx Financial, can reasonably be expected to occur, which
materially adversely affect Xxx Financial's or the Bank's business, prospects,
conditions (financial or otherwise), assets or results of operations or which
have caused, or can reasonably be expected to cause, Xxx Financial's or the
Bank's business to be conducted in a materially less profitable manner than
prior to June 30, 1998.
5.10. ABSENCE OF UNDISCLOSED LIABILITIES. Neither Xxx Financial nor the
Bank is a party to any agreement, contract, obligation, commitment, arrangement,
liability, lease or license which individually exceeds $10,000 per year or which
may not be terminated within one year from the date of this Agreement, except as
set forth in the Disclosure Letter and except for unfunded loan commitments made
in the ordinary course of the Bank's business consistent with past practices,
nor to the knowledge of Xxx Financial does there exist any circumstances
resulting from transactions effected or to be effected or events which have
occurred or may occur or from any action taken or omitted to be taken which
could reasonably be expected to result in any such agreement, contract,
obligation, commitment, arrangement, liability, lease or license.
5.11. TITLE TO ASSETS.
(a) Except as set forth in the Disclosure Letter, Xxx Financial and
the Bank have good and marketable title in fee simple absolute to all
personal property reflected in the June 30, 1998 Financial Information,
good and marketable title to all other properties and assets which Xxx
Financial or the Bank purport to own, good and marketable title to or right
to use by terms of any lease or contract all other property used in Xxx
Financial's or the Bank's business, and good and marketable title to all
property and assets acquired since June 30, 1998, free and clear of all
mortgages, liens, pledges, restrictions, security interests, charges,
claims or encumbrances of any nature.
(b) All furniture, fixtures, machinery, equipment, computer software
and hardware, and all other tangible personal property owned or used by Xxx
Financial or the Bank, including any such items leased as a lessee, are in
good working order and free of known defects, subject only to normal wear
and tear. The operation by Xxx
Ex. 10(h)-11
Financial or the Bank of such properties and assets is in compliance with
all applicable laws, ordinances, rules and regulations of any governmental
authority having jurisdiction over such use.
5.12. LOANS AND INVESTMENTS.
(a) Except as set forth in the Disclosure Letter, there is no loan of
the Bank in excess of $10,000 that has been classified by bank regulatory
examiners as "Other Loans Specially Mentioned," "Substandard," "Doubtful"
or "Loss," nor is there any loan of the Bank in excess of $10,000 that has
been identified by accountants or auditors (internal or external) as having
a significant risk of uncollectibility. The Bank's loan watch list and all
loans in excess of $10,000 that the Bank's management has determined to be
ninety (90) days or more past due with respect to principal or interest or
has placed on nonaccrual status are set forth in the Disclosure Letter.
(b) Each of the reserves and allowances for possible loan losses and
the carrying value for real estate owned which are shown on the Financial
Information is, in the opinion of Xxx Financial and the Bank, adequate in
all material respects under the requirements of generally accepted
accounting principles applied on a consistent basis to provide for possible
losses on loans outstanding and real estate owned as of the date of such
Financial Information.
(c) Except as set forth in the Disclosure Letter, none of the
investments reflected in the Financial Information and none of the
investments made by Xxx Financial or the Bank since June 30, 1998 is
subject to any restrictions, whether contractual or statutory, which
materially impairs the ability of Xxx Financial or the Bank to dispose
freely of such investment at any time. Except as set forth in the
Disclosure Letter, neither Xxx Financial nor the Bank are a party to any
repurchase agreements with respect to securities.
5.13. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS.
(a) The Disclosure Letter contains a list identifying each "employee
benefit plan," as defined in Section 3(3) of the Employee Retirement Income
Security Act of 1974, as amended ("ERISA"), which (i) is subject to any
provision of ERISA, and (ii) is maintained, administered or contributed to
by Xxx Financial or the Bank and covers any employee, director or former
employee or director of Xxx Financial or the Bank under which Xxx Financial
or the Bank has any liability. Copies of such plans (and, if applicable,
related trust agreements or insurance contracts) and all amendments thereto
and written interpretations thereof have been furnished to First Merchants
together with the three most recent annual reports prepared in connection
with any such plan and the current summary plan descriptions. Such plans
are hereinafter referred to individually
Ex. 10(h)-12
as an "Employee Plan" and collectively as the "Employee Plans." The
Employee Plans which individually or collectively would constitute an
"employee pension benefit plan" as defined in Section 3(2) of ERISA are
identified in the list referred to above.
(b) The Employee Plans comply with and have been operated in
accordance with all applicable laws, regulations, rulings and other
requirements the breach or violation of which could materially affect Xxx
Financial, the Bank, or an Employee Plan. Each Employee Plan has been
administered in substantial conformance with such requirements and all
reports and information required with respect to each Employee Plan has
been timely given.
(c) No "prohibited transaction," as defined in Section 406 of ERISA
or Section 4975 of the Code, for which no statutory or administrative
exemption exists, and no "reportable event," as defined in Section 4043(b)
of ERISA, has occurred with respect to any Employee Plan. Neither Xxx
Financial nor the Bank has any liability to the Pension Benefit Guaranty
Corporation ("PBGC"), to the Internal Revenue Service ("IRS"), to the
Department of Labor ("DOL") or to an employee or Employee Plan beneficiary
under Section 502 of ERISA.
(d) To the best knowledge of Xxx Financial and the Bank, no
"fiduciary," as defined in Section (3)(21) of ERISA, of an Employee Plan
has failed to comply with the requirements of Section 404 of ERISA.
(e) Each of the Employee Plans which is intended to be qualified
under Code Section 401(a) has been amended to comply in all material
respects with the applicable requirements of the Code, including the Tax
Reform Act of 1986, the Revenue Act of 1987, the Technical and
Miscellaneous Revenue Act of 1988, the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of
1989, the Revenue Reconciliation Act of 1990, the Tax Extension Act of
1991, the Unemployment Compensation Amendments of 1992, the Omnibus Budget
Reconciliation Act of 1993, and the Retirement Protection Act of 1994 and
any rules, regulations or other requirements promulgated thereunder (the
"Acts"). In addition, each such Employee Plan has been and is being
operated in substantial conformance with the applicable provisions of ERISA
and the Code, as amended by the Acts. Except as set forth in the
Disclosure Letter, Xxx Financial and/or the Bank, as applicable, sought and
received favorable determination letters from the IRS within the applicable
remedial amendment periods under Code Section 401(b), and has furnished to
First Merchants copies of the most recent IRS determination letters with
respect to any such Employee Plan.
(f) No Employee Plan owns any security of Xxx Financial or the Bank.
Ex. 10(h)-13
(g) No Employee Plan has incurred an "accumulated funding
deficiency," as determined under Code Section 412 and ERISA Section 302.
(h) No Employee Plan has been terminated or incurred a partial
termination (either voluntarily or involuntarily).
(i) No claims against an Employee Plan, Xxx Financial or the Bank,
with respect to an Employee Plan, (other than normal benefit claims) have
been asserted or threatened.
(j) There is no contract, agreement, plan or arrangement covering any
employee, director or former employee or director of Xxx Financial or the
Bank that, individually or collectively, could give rise to the payment of
any amount that would not be deductible by reason of Section 280G or
Section 162(a)(1) of the Code.
(k) To the best knowledge of Xxx Financial and the Bank, no event has
occurred that would cause the imposition of the tax described in Code
Section 4980B. To the best knowledge of Xxx Financial and the Bank, all
requirements of ERISA Section 601 have been met.
(l) The Disclosure Letter contains a list of each employment,
severance or other similar contract, arrangement or policy and each plan or
arrangement (written or oral) providing for insurance coverage (including
any self-insured arrangements), workers' compensation, disability benefits,
supplemental unemployment benefits, vacation benefits, retirement benefits
or deferred compensation, profit sharing, bonuses, stock options, stock
appreciation or other forms of incentive compensation or post-retirement
insurance, compensation or benefits which (i) is not an Employee Plan, (ii)
was entered into, maintained or contributed to, as the case may be, by Xxx
Financial or the Bank and (iii) covers any employee, director or former
employee or director of Xxx Financial or the Bank. Such contracts, plans
and arrangements as are described above, copies or descriptions of all of
which have been furnished previously to First Merchants, are hereinafter
referred to collectively as the "Benefit Arrangements." Each of the
Benefit Arrangements has been maintained in substantial compliance with its
terms and with the requirements prescribed by any and all statutes, orders,
rules and regulations which are applicable to such Benefit Arrangements.
(m) Except for (i) COBRA health care continuation coverage
obligations of the Bank, and (ii) the Bank's obligation to pay for the cost
of individual lifetime health care insurance coverage for one retiree which
arose out of an acquisition by the Bank in 1988, neither Xxx Financial nor
the Bank has any present or future liability in respect of post-retirement
health and medical benefits for former employees or directors of Xxx
Financial or the Bank.
Ex. 10(h)-14
(n) Except as set forth in the Disclosure Letter, there has been no
amendment to, written interpretation or announcement (whether or not
written) by Xxx Financial or the Bank relating to, or change in employee
participation or coverage under, any Employee Plan or Benefit Arrangement
which would increase materially the expense of maintaining such Employee
Plans or Benefit Arrangements above the level of the expense incurred in
respect thereof for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1997.
(o) For purposes of this Section 5.13, references to Xxx Financial or
the Bank are deemed to include (i) all predecessors of Xxx Financial or the
Bank, (ii) any subsidiary of Xxx Financial or the Bank, (iii) all members
of any controlled group (as determined under Code Section 414(b) or (c))
that includes Xxx Financial or the Bank, and (iv) all members of any
affiliated service group (as determined under Code Section 414(m) or (n))
that includes Xxx Financial or the Bank.
5.14 OBLIGATIONS TO EMPLOYEES. Except as set forth in the Disclosure
Letter, all accrued obligations and liabilities of Xxx Financial and the Bank,
whether arising by operation of law, by contract or by past custom, for payments
to trust or other funds, to any government agency or body or to any individual
director, officer, employee or agent (or his heirs, legatees or legal
representative) with respect to unemployment compensation or social security
benefits and all pension, retirement, savings, stock purchase, stock bonus,
stock ownership, stock option, stock appreciation rights or profit sharing plan,
any employment, deferred compensation, consultant, bonus or collective
bargaining agreement or group insurance contract or other incentive, welfare or
employee benefit plan or agreement maintained by Xxx Financial or the Bank for
their current or former directors, officers, employees and agents have been and
are being paid to the extent required by law or by the plan or contract, and
adequate actuarial accruals and/or reserves for such payments have been and are
being made by Xxx Financial or the Bank in accordance with generally accepted
accounting and actuarial principles, except where the failure to pay any such
accrued obligations or liabilities or to maintain adequate accruals and/or
reserves for payment thereof would not materially adversely affect Xxx Financial
or the Bank or their respective businesses, prospects, conditions (financial or
otherwise), results of operations or assets. All obligations and liabilities of
Xxx Financial and the Bank, whether arising by operation of law, by contract, or
by past custom, for all forms of compensation which are or may be payable to
their current or former directors, officers, employees or agents have been and
are being paid, and adequate accruals and/or reserves for payment therefor have
been and are being made in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles, except where the failure to pay any such obligations and liabilities
or to maintain adequate accruals and/or reserves for ayment thereof would not
materially adversely affect Xxx Financial or the Bank or their respective
businesses, prospects, conditions (financial or otherwise), results of
operations or assets. All accruals and reserves referred to in this Section
5.14 are correctly and accurately reflected and accounted for in the books,
statements and records of Xxx Financial and the Bank, except where the failure
to
Ex. 10(h)-15
correctly and accurately reflect and account for such accruals and reserves
would not materially adversely affect Xxx Financial or the Bank or their
respective businesses, prospects, conditions (financial or otherwise), results
of operations or assets.
5.15. TAXES, RETURNS AND REPORTS. Xxx Financial and the Bank have (a)
duly filed all federal, state, local and foreign tax returns of every type and
kind required to be filed as of the date hereof, and each return is true,
complete and accurate in all material respects; (b) paid in all materials
respects all taxes, assessments and other governmental charges due or claimed to
be due upon them or any of their income, properties or assets; and (c) not
requested an extension of time for any such payments (which extension is still
in force). Except for taxes not yet due and payable, the reserve for taxes on
the Financial Information is adequate to cover all of Xxx Financial's and the
Bank's tax liabilities (including, without limitation, income taxes and
franchise fees) that may become payable in future years with respect to any
transactions consummated prior to June 30, 1998. Neither Xxx Financial nor the
Bank has or will have, any liability for taxes of any nature for or with respect
to the operation of their business, including the assets of any subsidiary, from
June 30, 1998 up to and including the Effective Date, except to the extent
reflected on their Financial Information or on financial statements of Xxx
Financial or the Bank subsequent to such date and as set forth in the Disclosure
Letter. Neither Xxx Financial nor the Bank is currently under audit by any
state or federal taxing authority. Except as set forth in the Disclosure
Letter, neither the federal, state, or local tax returns of Xxx Financial or the
Bank have been audited by any taxing authority during the past five (5) years.
5.16. DEPOSIT INSURANCE. The deposits of the Bank are insured by the
Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation ("FDIC") in accordance with the Federal
Deposit Insurance Act, and the Bank has paid all premiums and assessments with
respect to such deposit insurance.
5.17. REPORTS. Since January 1, 1995, each of Xxx Financial and the Bank
have timely filed all reports, registrations and statements, together with any
required amendments thereto, that it was required to file with (i) the Federal
Reserve Board, (ii) the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, (iii) the
FDIC, and (iv) any federal, state, municipal or local government, securities,
banking, environmental, insurance and other governmental or regulatory
authority, and the agencies and staffs thereof (collectively, the "Regulatory
Authorities"), having jurisdiction over the affairs of either Xxx Financial or
the Bank. All such reports filed by Xxx Financial and the Bank complied in all
material respects with all the rules and regulations promulgated by the
applicable Regulatory Authorities and are true, accurate and complete and were
prepared in conformity with generally accepted regulatory accounting principles
applied on a consistent basis. There is no unresolved violation, criticism or
exception by any of the Regulatory Authorities with respect to any report or
statement filed by, or any examinations of, Xxx Financial or the Bank.
5.18. ABSENCE OF DEFAULTS. Neither Xxx Financial nor the Bank is in
violation of its charter documents or By-Laws or in default under any material
agreement, commitment,
Ex. 10(h)-16
arrangement, lease, insurance policy or other instrument, whether entered into
in the ordinary course of business or otherwise and whether written or oral, and
there has not occurred any event that, with the lapse of time or giving of
notice or both, would constitute such a default.
5.19. TAX AND REGULATORY MATTERS. Neither Xxx Financial nor the Bank has
taken or agreed to take any action or has any knowledge of any fact or
circumstance that would (i) prevent the transactions contemplated hereby from
qualifying as a reorganization within the meaning of Section 368 of the Code or
(ii) materially impede or delay receipt of any regulatory approval required for
consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
5.20. REAL PROPERTY.
(a) The legal description of each parcel of real property owned by
Xxx Financial or the Bank (other than real property acquired in foreclosure
or in lieu of foreclosure in the course of the collection of loans and
being held by Xxx Financial or the Bank for disposition as required by law)
is set forth in the Disclosure Letter under the heading of "Owned Real
Property" (such real property being herein referred to as the "Owned Real
Property"). The legal description of each parcel of real property leased
by Xxx Financial or the Bank is also set forth in the Disclosure Letter
under the heading of "Leased Real Property" (such real property being
herein referred to as the "Leased Real Property"). Xxx Financial shall
update the Disclosure Letter within ten (10) days after acquiring or
leasing any real property after the date hereof. Collectively, the Owned
Real Property and the Leased Real Property are herein referred to as the
"Real Property."
(b) There is no pending action involving Xxx Financial or the Bank as
to the title of or the right to use any of the Real Property.
(c) Neither Xxx Financial nor the Bank has any interest in any other
real property except interests as a mortgagee, and except for any real
property acquired in foreclosure or in lieu of foreclosure and being held
for disposition as required by law.
(d) None of the buildings, structures or other improvements located
on the Real Property encroaches upon or over any adjoining parcel of real
estate or any easement or right-of-way or "setback" line and all such
buildings, structures and improvements are located and constructed in
conformity with all applicable zoning ordinances and building codes.
(e) None of the buildings, structures or improvements located on the
Real Property are the subject of any official complaint or notice by any
governmental authority of violation of any applicable zoning ordinance or
building code, and there is no zoning ordinance, building code, use or
occupancy restriction or condemnation
Ex. 10(h)-17
action or proceeding pending, or, to the best knowledge of Xxx Financial,
threatened, with respect to any such building, structure or improvement.
The Real Property is in good condition for its intended purpose, ordinary
wear and tear excepted, and has been maintained in accordance with
reasonable and prudent business practices applicable to like facilities.
The Real Property has been used and operated in compliance with all
applicable laws, statutes, rules, regulations and ordinances applicable
thereto.
(f) Except as may be reflected in the Financial Information or with
respect to such easements, liens, defects or encumbrances as do not
individually or in the aggregate materially adversely affect the use or
value of the Owned Real Property, Xxx Financial and the Bank have, and at
the Closing Date will have, good and marketable title to their respective
Owned Real Property.
(g) Neither Xxx Financial nor the Bank has caused or allowed the
generation, treatment, storage, disposal or release at any Real Property of
any Toxic Substance, except in accordance with all applicable federal,
state and local laws and regulations. "Toxic Substance" means any
hazardous, toxic or dangerous substance, pollutant, waste, gas or material,
including, without limitation, petroleum and petroleum products, metals,
liquids, semi-solids or solids, that are regulated under any federal, state
or local statute, ordinance, rule, regulation or other law pertaining to
environmental protection, contamination, quality, waste management or
cleanup.
(h) Except as disclosed in the Disclosure Letter, there are no
underground storage tanks located on, in or under any Owned Real Property.
Neither Xxx Financial nor the Bank own or operate any underground storage
tank at any Leased Real Property.
(i) The Real Property is not "property" within the definition of
Indiana Code 13-11-2-174. Neither Xxx Financial nor the Bank is required
to provide a "disclosure document" to First Merchants as a result of the
Merger pursuant to the Indiana Responsible Property Transfer Law (I.C.
Section 13-25-3-1 ET SEQ.).
(j) There are no mechanic's or materialman's liens against the Real
Property, and no unpaid claims for labor performed, materials furnished or
services rendered in connection with constructing, improving or repairing
the Real Property in respect of which liens may or could be filed against
the Real Property.
5.21. BROKER'S OR FINDER'S FEES. Except as set forth in the Disclosure
Letter, no agent, broker or other person acting on behalf of Xxx Financial or
the Bank or under any authority of Xxx Financial or the Bank is or shall be
entitled to any commission, broker's or finder's fee or any other form of
compensation or payment from any of the parties hereto,
Ex. 10(h)-18
other than attorneys' or accountants' fees, in connection with any of the
transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
5.22. BRING DOWN OF REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES. All representations
and warranties of Xxx Financial and the Bank contained in this Section 5 shall
be true, accurate and correct on and as of the Effective Date except as affected
by the transactions contemplated by and specified within the terms of this
Agreement.
5.23. NONSURVIVAL OF REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES. The representations
and warranties contained in this Section 5 shall expire on the Effective Date or
the earlier termination of this Agreement, and thereafter Xxx Financial and the
Bank and all directors, officers and employees of Xxx Financial and the Bank
shall have no further liability with respect thereto unless a court of competent
jurisdiction should determine that any misrepresentation or breach of a warranty
was willfully or intentionally made or is deemed to be fraudulent.
SECTION 6
Representations and
WARRANTIES OF FIRST MERCHANTS
First Merchants hereby represents and warrants to Xxx Financial as follows:
6.01. ORGANIZATION AND QUALIFICATION. First Merchants is a corporation
organized and existing under the laws of the State of Indiana and has the
corporate power and authority to conduct its business in the manner and by the
means utilized as of the date hereof.
6.02. AUTHORIZATION.
(a) First Merchants has the corporate power and authority to enter
into this Agreement and to carry out its obligations hereunder subject to
certain required regulatory approvals. The Agreement, when executed and
delivered, will have been duly authorized and will constitute a valid and
binding obligation of First Merchants, enforceable in accordance with its
terms, except to the extent limited by insolvency, reorganization,
liquidation, readjustment of debt, or other laws of general application
relating to or affecting the enforcement of creditor's rights.
(b) Neither the execution of this Agreement, nor the consummation of
the transactions contemplated hereby, does or will (i) conflict with,
result in a breach of, or constitute a default under First Merchant's
Articles of Incorporation or By-laws; (ii) conflict with, result in a
breach of, or constitute a default under any federal, foreign,
Ex. 10(h)-19
state, or local law, statute, ordinance, rule, regulation, or court or
administrative order or decree, or any note, bond, indenture, mortgage,
security agreement, contract, arrangement, or commitment, to which First
Merchants is subject or bound, the result of which would materially affect
the business or financial condition of First Merchants; (iii) result in the
creation of or give any person, corporation or entity, the right to create
any lien, charge, claim, encumbrance, security interest, or any other
rights of others or other adverse interest upon any right, property or
asset of First Merchants; (iv) terminate or give any person, corporation or
entity the right to terminate, amend, abandon, or refuse to perform any
note, bond, indenture, mortgage, security agreement, contract, arrangement,
or commitment to which First Merchants is a party or by which First
Merchant is subject or bound; or (v) accelerate or modify, or give any
party thereto the right to accelerate or modify, the time within which, or
the terms according to which, First Merchants is to perform any duties or
obligations or receive any rights or benefits under any note, bond,
indenture, mortgage, security agreement, contract, arrangement, or
commitment.
(c) Other than in connection or in compliance with the provisions of
the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, federal and state securities laws,
and applicable Indiana banking and corporate statutes, all as amended, and
the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, no notice to, filing
with, authorization of, exemption by, or consent or approval of, any public
body or authority is necessary for the consummation by First Merchants of
the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
6.03. CAPITALIZATION.
(a) As of June 30, 1998, First Merchants had 20,000,000 shares of
common stock authorized, no par value, of which 6,697,656 shares were
issued and outstanding. Such issued and outstanding shares of First
Merchants common stock have been duly and validly authorized by all
necessary corporate action of First Merchants, are validly issued, fully
paid and nonassessable and have not been issued in violation of any
preemptive rights of any shareholders.
(b) First Merchants has 500,000 shares of Preferred Stock authorized,
no par value, no shares of which have been issued and no commitments exist
to issue any of such shares.
(c) The shares of First Merchants' common stock to be issued pursuant
to the Merger will be fully paid, validly issued and nonassessable.
6.04. ORGANIZATIONAL DOCUMENTS. The Articles of Incorporation and By-laws
of First Merchants in force as of the date hereof have been delivered to Xxx
Financial. The documents
Ex. 10(h)-20
delivered by it represent complete and accurate copies of the corporate
documents of First Merchants in effect as of the date of this Agreement.
6.05. ACCURACY OF STATEMENTS. Neither this Agreement nor any report,
statement, list, certificate or other information furnished or to be furnished
by First Merchants to Xxx Financial in connection with this Agreement or any of
the transactions contemplated hereby (including, without limitation, any
information which has been or shall be supplied by First Merchants with respect
to its business, operations and financial condition for inclusion in the proxy
statement and registration statement relating to the Merger) contains or shall
contain (in the case of information relating to the proxy statement at the time
it is mailed and to the registration statement at the time it becomes effective)
any untrue statement of a material fact or omits or shall omit to state a
material fact necessary to make the statements contained herein or therein, in
light of the circumstances in which they are made, not misleading.
6.06. COMPLIANCE WITH LAW. First Merchants has not engaged in any
activity nor taken or omitted to take any action which has resulted or, to the
knowledge of First Merchants, could result in the violation of any local, state,
federal or foreign law, statute, rule, regulation or ordinance or of any order,
injunction, judgment or decree of any court or government agency or body, the
violation of which could materially adversely affect the business, prospects,
condition (financial or otherwise) or results of operations of First Merchants.
First Merchants possesses all licenses, franchises, permits and other
authorizations necessary for the continued conduct of its business without
material interference or interruption. There are no agreements or
understandings with, nor any orders or directives of, any regulatory agencies or
government authorities, which would have a material adverse effect on the
consolidated financial position of First Merchants. First Merchants has
received no written inquiries from any regulatory agency or government authority
relating to its compliance with the Bank Secrecy Act, the Truth-in-Lending Act
or the Community Reinvestment Act.
6.07. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS. First Merchants consolidated balance sheets
as of the end of the three (3) fiscal years ended December 31, 1995, 1996 and
1997 and the six months ended June 30, 1998 and the related consolidated
statements of income, shareholders' equity and cash flows for the years or
period then ended present fairly the consolidated financial condition or
position of First Merchants as of the respective dates thereof and the
consolidated results of operations of First Merchants for the respective periods
covered thereby and have been prepared in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles applied on a consistent basis. All required regulatory
reports have been filed by First Merchants with its primary federal regulator
during 1998, 1997, 1996 and 1995, and all of such reports are true, accurate and
complete in all material respects and have been prepared in conformity with
generally accepted regulatory accounting principles applied on a consistent
basis.
6.08. ABSENCE OF CERTAIN CHANGES. Except for events and conditions
relating to the business environment in general, since June 30, 1998, no events
or conditions of any
Ex. 10(h)-21
character, whether actual, threatened or contemplated, have occurred, or can
reasonably be expected to occur, which materially adversely affect First
Merchants consolidated business, prospects, conditions (financial or otherwise),
assets or results of operations or which have caused, or can reasonably be
expected to cause, First Merchants business, on a consolidated basis, to be
conducted in a materially less profitable manner than prior to June 30, 1998.
6.09. FIRST MERCHANTS SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION FILINGS. First
Merchants has filed all reports and other documents required to be filed by it
under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Securities Act of 1933,
including First Merchants' Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended
December 31, 1997, and Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June
30, 1998, copies of which have previously been delivered to Xxx Financial.
6.10. BRING DOWN OF REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES. All representations
and warranties of First Merchants contained in this Section 6 shall be true,
accurate and correct on and as of the Effective Date except as affected by the
transactions contemplated by and specified within the terms of this Agreement.
6.11. NONSURVIVAL OF REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES. The representations
and warranties contained in this Section 6 shall expire on the Effective Date or
the earlier termination of this Agreement, and thereafter First Merchants and
all directors, officers and employees of First Merchants shall have no further
liability with respect thereto unless a court of competent jurisdiction should
determine that any misrepresentation or breach of a warranty was willfully or
intentionally made or is deemed to be fraudulent.
SECTION 7
COVENANTS OF XXX FINANCIAL
Xxx Financial covenants and agrees with First Merchants, and covenants and
agrees to cause the Bank to act, as follows:
7.01. SHAREHOLDER APPROVAL. Xxx Financial shall submit this Agreement to
its shareholders for approval at a meeting to be called and held in accordance
with applicable law and the Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws of Xxx
Financial at the earliest possible reasonable date, and the Board of Directors
of Xxx Financial shall recommend to the shareholders of Xxx Financial that such
shareholders approve this Agreement. The Board of Directors of Xxx Financial
shall use its best efforts to obtain any vote of its shareholders necessary for
the approval of this Agreement.
Ex. 10(h)-22
7.02. OTHER APPROVALS. Xxx Financial and the Bank shall proceed
expeditiously, cooperate fully and use their best efforts to procure upon
reasonable terms and conditions all consents, authorizations, approvals,
registrations and certificates, to complete all filings and applications and to
satisfy all other requirements prescribed by law which are necessary for
consummation of the Merger on the terms and conditions provided in this
Agreement at the earliest possible reasonable date.
7.03. CONDUCT OF BUSINESS.
(a) On and after the date of this Agreement and until the Effective
Date or until this Agreement shall be terminated as herein provided,
neither Xxx Financial nor the Bank shall, without the prior written consent
of First Merchants, (i) make any material changes in their capital
structure; (ii) authorize a class of stock or issue, or authorize the
issuance of, stock other than or in addition to the outstanding stock as
set forth in Section 5.03 hereof; (iii) declare, distribute or pay any
dividends on their shares of common stock, or authorize a stock split, or
make any other distribution to their shareholders, except for (a) the
payment by Xxx Financial prior to the Effective Date of customary quarterly
cash dividends on its common stock in October, 1998, December, 1998, and
April, 1999, which dividends shall not exceed fifty cents ($.50) per
share, respectively, provided that Xxx Financial shall not pay any such
dividend during the fiscal quarter in which the Merger shall become
effective and in which Xxx Financial shareholders will become entitled to
receive dividends on the shares of First Merchants into which the shares of
Xxx Financial have been converted or in any subsequent fiscal quarter, and
(b) the payment by the Bank to Xxx Financial of dividends to pay Xxx
Financial's expenses of operations and its business and payment of fees and
expenses incurred in connection with the transactions contemplated by this
Agreement; (iv) merge, combine or consolidate with or sell their assets or
any of their securities to any other person, corporation or entity, effect
a share exchange or enter into any other transaction not in the ordinary
course of business; (v) incur any liability or obligation, make any
commitment, payment or disbursement, enter into any contract, agreement,
understanding or arrangement or engage in any transaction, or acquire or
dispose of any property or asset having a fair market value in excess of
$10,000.00 (except for personal or real property acquired or disposed of in
connection with foreclosures on mortgages or enforcement of security
interests and loans made or sold by the Bank in the ordinary course of
business); (vi) subject any of their properties or assets to a mortgage,
lien, claim, charge, option, restriction, security interest or encumbrance;
(vii) promote or increase or decrease the rate of compensation (except for
promotions and non-material increases in the ordinary course of business
and in accordance with past practices) or enter into any agreement to
promote or increase or decrease the rate of compensation of any director,
officer or employee of Xxx Financial or the Bank; (viii) execute, create,
institute, modify or amend any pension, retirement, savings, stock
purchase, stock bonus, stock ownership, stock option, stock appreciation or
Ex. 10(h)-23
depreciation right or profit sharing plans, any employment, deferred
compensation, consultant, bonus or collective bargaining agreement, group
insurance contract or other incentive, welfare or employee benefit plan or
agreement for current or former directors, officers or employees of Xxx
Financial or the Bank, change the level of benefits or payments under any
of the foregoing or increase or decrease any severance or termination of
pay benefit or any other fringe or employee benefits other than as required
by law or regulatory authorities; (ix) amend their Articles of
Incorporation or By-Laws from those in effect on the date of this
Agreement; (x) modify, amend or institute new employment policies or
practices, or enter into, renew or extend any employment or severance
agreements with respect to any present or former Xxx Financial or Bank
directors, officers or employees; (xi) give, dispose, sell, convey, assign,
hypothecate, pledge, encumber or otherwise transfer or grant a security
interest in any common stock of the Bank; (xii) fail to make additions to
the Bank's reserve for loan losses, or any other reserve account, in the
ordinary course of business and in accordance with sound banking practices;
(xiii) other than in the ordinary course of business consistent with past
practice, incur any indebtedness for borrowed money or assume, guarantee,
endorse or otherwise as an accommodation become responsible or liable for
the obligations of any other individual, corporation or other entity; and
(xiv) agree in writing or otherwise to take any of the foregoing actions.
(b) Xxx Financial and the Bank shall maintain, or cause to be
maintained, in full force and effect insurance on its properties and
operations and fidelity coverage on its directors, officers and employees
in such amounts and with regard to such liabilities and hazards as
customarily are maintained by other companies operating similar businesses.
(c) Xxx Financial and the Bank shall continue to give to First
Merchants and its employees, accountants, attorneys and other authorized
representatives reasonable access during regular business hours and other
reasonable times to all their premises, properties, statements, books and
records.
7.04. PRESERVATION OF BUSINESS. On and after the date of this Agreement
and until the Effective Date or until this Agreement is terminated as herein
provided, Xxx Financial and the Bank each shall (a) carry on their business
diligently, substantially in the same manner as heretofore conducted, and in the
ordinary course of business; (b) use their best efforts to preserve their
business organizations intact, to keep their present officers and employees and
to preserve their present relationship with customers and others having business
dealings with them; and (c) not do or fail to do anything which will cause a
material breach of, or material default in, any contract, agreement, commitment,
obligation, understanding, arrangement, lease or license to which they are a
party or by which they are or may be subject or bound.
Ex. 10(h)-24
7.05. OTHER NEGOTIATIONS. Except with the prior written approval of First
Merchants, on and after the date of this Agreement and until the Effective Date,
Xxx Financial and the Bank shall not, and shall not permit or authorize their
respective directors, officers, employees, agents or representatives to,
directly or indirectly, initiate, solicit, encourage, or engage in discussions
or negotiations with, or provide information to, any corporation, association,
partnership, person or other entity or group concerning any merger,
consolidation, share exchange, combination, purchase or sale of substantial
assets, sale of shares of capital stock (or securities convertible or
exchangeable into or otherwise evidencing, or any agreement or instrument
evidencing the right to acquire, capital stock), tender offer, acquisition of
control of Xxx Financial or the Bank or similar transaction involving Xxx
Financial or the Bank (all such transactions hereinafter referred to as an
"Acquisition Transaction"). Xxx Financial and the Bank shall promptly
communicate to First Merchants the terms of any proposal, written or oral, which
either may receive with respect to an Acquisition Transaction and any request by
or indication of interest on the part of any third party with respect to
initiation of any Acquisition Transaction or discussion with respect thereto.
7.06. RESTRICTIONS REGARDING AFFILIATES. Xxx Financial shall, within
thirty (30) days after the date of this Agreement and promptly thereafter until
the Effective Date to reflect any changes or upon the request of First
Merchants, provide First Merchants with a list identifying each person who may
reasonably be deemed to be an "affiliate" of Xxx Financial within the meaning of
such term as used in Rule 145 under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the
"1933 Act"). Each director, executive officer and other person who is an
"affiliate" of Xxx Financial for purposes of the 1933 Act shall deliver to First
Merchants, at least thirty-one (31) days prior to the Effective Date, a written
agreement, in form and substance satisfactory to counsel to First Merchants,
regarding compliance by each such person with (i) the provisions of such Rule
145, and (ii) the requirements of Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 16
regarding the disposition of shares (or reduction of risk with respect thereto)
of Xxx Financial common stock during the thirty (30) days preceding the
Effective Date, or First Merchants common stock until such time as financial
results covering at least thirty (30) days of post-Merger operations have been
published.
7.07. PRESS RELEASE. Neither Xxx Financial nor the Bank shall issue any
press releases or make any other public announcements or disclosures relating to
the Merger without the prior approval of First Merchants.
7.08. DISCLOSURE LETTER. Within five (5) business days after the date of
execution of this Agreement by both First Merchants and Xxx Financial, Xxx
Financial shall deliver to First Merchants the Disclosure Letter referenced in
Section 5 hereof in complete form containing all required information as of the
date of this Agreement along with copies of all documents, instruments, and
agreements referenced in the Disclosure Letter. Upon receipt of the Disclosure
Letter, First Merchants shall have the opportunity to review the Disclosure
Letter and all documents, instruments, and agreements provided therewith and
conduct such
Ex. 10(h)-25
additional due diligence and review of Xxx Financial and the Bank as First
Merchants deems necessary. Within ten (10) business days after receipt by First
Merchants of the Disclosure Letter from Xxx Financial, First Merchants shall
have the right to either (i) accept the complete Disclosure Letter by having an
authorized executive officer of First Merchants initial the Disclosure Letter
and delivering an initialed copy to Xxx Financial, or (ii) provide Xxx Financial
with written notice of termination of this Agreement by First Merchants in
accordance with the terms of Section 10.01(j) hereof. In the event the
Disclosure Letter is accepted by First Merchants, Xxx Financial shall thereafter
promptly supplement, amend and update monthly and as of the Effective Date the
Disclosure Letter with respect to any matters hereafter arising which, if in
existence or having occurred as of the date of this Agreement, would have been
required to be set forth or described in the Disclosure Letter.
7.09 CONFIDENTIALITY. Xxx Financial and the Bank shall use their best
efforts to cause their respective officers, employees, and authorized
representatives to, hold in strict confidence all confidential data and
information obtained by them from First Merchants, unless such information (i)
was already known to Xxx Financial and the Bank, (ii) becomes available to Xxx
Financial and the Bank from other sources, (iii) is independently developed by
Xxx Financial and the Bank, (iv) is disclosed outside of Xxx Financial and the
Bank with and in accordance with the terms of prior written approval of First
Merchants, or (v) is or becomes readily ascertainable from public or published
information or trade sources or public disclosure of such information is
required by law or requested by a court or other governmental agency,
commission, or regulatory body. Xxx Financial and the Bank further agree that
in the event this Agreement is terminated, it will return to First Merchants all
information obtained by Xxx Financial and the Bank regarding First Merchants,
including all copies made of such information by Xxx Financial and the Bank.
This provision shall survive the Effective Date or the earlier termination of
this Agreement.
7.10 COOPERATION. Xxx Financial shall generally cooperate with First
Merchants and its officers, employees, attorneys, accountants and other agents,
and, generally, do such other acts and things in good faith as may be
reasonable, necessary or appropriate to timely effectuate the intents and
purposes of this Agreement and the consummation of the transactions contemplated
hereby, including, without limitation, (i) Xxx Financial shall cooperate and
assist First Merchants in preparation of and/or filing of all regulatory
applications, the registration statement for registration of First Merchants'
shares, and all other documentation required to be prepared for consummation of
the Merger and obtaining all necessary approvals, and (ii) Xxx Financial shall
furnish First Merchants with all information concerning itself and the Bank that
First Merchants may request in connection with the preparation of the
documentation referenced above. Prior to the Closing (as defined in Section 12
hereof), Xxx Financial agrees to disclose to First Merchants any fact or matter
that comes to the attention of Xxx Financial that might indicate that any of the
representations or warranties of Xxx Financial may be untrue, incorrect, or
misleading in any material respect.
Ex. 10(h)-26
7.11. ENVIRONMENTAL REPORTS. Xxx Financial, at its sole cost and expense,
shall provide to First Merchants, as soon as reasonably practical, but not later
than thirty (30) days after the date hereof, a report of a phase one
environmental investigation on all real property owned, leased or operated by
Xxx Financial or the Bank as of the date hereof (but excluding space in retail
and similar establishments leased by Xxx Financial or the Bank for automatic
teller machines or bank branch facilities where the space leased comprises less
than 20% of the total space leased to all tenants of such property) and within
ten (10) days after the acquisition or lease of any real property acquired or
leased by Xxx Financial or the Bank after the date hereof (but excluding space
in retail and similar establishments leased by Xxx Financial or the Bank for
automatic teller machines or bank branch facilities where the space leased
comprises less than 20% of the total space leased to all tenants of such
property). If required by the phase one investigation in First Merchants'
reasonable opinion, Xxx Financial shall provide to First Merchants, within
thirty (30) days of such request, a report of a phase two investigation on
properties requiring such additional study. First Merchants shall have fifteen
(15) business days from the receipt of any such phase one or phase two
investigation report to notify Xxx Financial of any dissatisfaction with the
contents of such report. Should the cost of taking all remedial or other
corrective actions and measures (i) required by applicable law or reasonable
likely to be required by applicable law, or (ii) recommended or suggested by
such report or reports as prudent in light of serious life, health or safety
concerns, in the aggregate, exceed the sum of $250,000 as reasonably estimated
by an environmental expert retained for such purpose by First Merchants and
reasonably acceptable to Xxx Financial, or if the cost of such actions and
measures cannot be so reasonably estimated by such expert to be such amount or
less wit any reasonable degree of certainty, then First Merchants shall have the
right for a period of fifteen (15) business days following receipt of such
estimate or indication that the cost of such actions and measures cannot be so
reasonably estimated to terminate this Agreement by providing written notice of
such termination to Xxx Financial.
7.12. LETTER TO XXX FINANCIAL SHAREHOLDERS. Within two (2) business
days after execution of this Agreement by Xxx Financial and First Merchants, Xxx
Financial shall deposit in the United States mail a letter to each of the
shareholders of record of Xxx Financial as of the date of execution of this
Agreement informing each shareholder about the execution of this Agreement and
the proposed Merger. The terms of such letter to the shareholders of Xxx
Financial shall be in a form mutually agreed to by First Merchants and Xxx
Financial.
Ex. 10(h)-27
SECTION 8
COVENANTS OF FIRST MERCHANTS
First Merchants covenants and agrees with Xxx Financial as follows:
8.01. APPROVALS. First Merchants shall proceed expeditiously, cooperate
fully and use its best efforts to procure upon reasonable terms and conditions
all consents, authorizations, approvals, registrations and certificates, to
complete all filings and applications and to satisfy all other requirements
prescribed by law which are necessary for consummation of the Merger on the
terms and conditions provided in this Agreement. First Merchants shall provide
Xxx Financial with copies of proposed regulatory filings in connection with the
Merger and afford Xxx Financial the opportunity to offer comment on the filings
before filing. The approval of the shareholders of First Merchants of the
transactions contemplated by this Agreement is not required.
8.02. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS.
(a) COVERAGE UNDER FIRST MERCHANTS' PLANS. No later than January 1,
2000, First Merchants will cover the Bank's employees under any
tax-qualified retirement plan First Merchants maintains for its employees,
provided that such an employee meets the applicable participation
requirements, in lieu of the Bank's current tax-qualified retirement plan.
Until that time, the Bank's current tax-qualified retirement plan will be
maintained at the same level, with respect to benefit accruals, provided
for on the Effective Date. Following the Effective Date, the Bank
employees will otherwise receive employee benefits that in the aggregate
are substantially comparable to the employee benefits provided to those
employees by Xxx Financial or the Bank on the Effective Date. For purposes
of determining a Xxx Financial or Bank employee's eligibility and vesting
service under a First Merchant's employee benefit plan that the employee is
permitted to enter, service with Xxx Financial or the Bank will be treated
as service with First Merchants; provided, however, that service with Xxx
Financial or the Bank shall not be treated as service with First Merchants
for purposes of benefit accrual.
(b) COVERAGE UNDER FIRST MERCHANTS' HEALTH PLAN. Those employees of
the Bank who become covered by the health plan sponsored by First Merchants
under the provisions of subsection (a) and who are, at such time, subject
to an eligibility waiting period due to a pre-existing condition exclusion
or limitation under the Bank's health plan which also constitutes a
pre-existing condition exclusion or limitation under the health plan
sponsored by First Merchants shall receive credit towards the satisfaction
under the First Merchants health plan of any waiting period imposed with
respect to such pre-existing condition exclusion or limitation.
Ex. 10(h)-28
(c) CONTINUATION OF THE BANK'S DEFERRED COMPENSATION PLANS. From and
after the Effective Date, First Merchants shall use its best efforts to
continue or cause the Bank to continue, in accordance with their respective
terms, the nonqualified deferred compensation plans sponsored by Xxx
Financial and the Bank for the benefit of the members of the Board of
Directors of Xxx Financial and the Bank and the employees of the Bank,
provided such plans do not require additional cash contributions or benefit
accruals by the Bank or First Merchants beyond what has been contributed or
earned in terms of an accrued benefit as of the Effective Date. First
Merchants reserves the right, however, to amend any and all such plans so
as to prevent any new employees or directors of the Bank or Xxx Financial
from becoming eligible thereunder.
8.03. FIRST MERCHANTS BOARD OF DIRECTORS. First Merchants shall cause
all necessary action to be taken to cause the current President of the Bank,
Xxxxx Xxxxxx, to either (i) be nominated for election as a member of the First
Merchants' Board of Directors for a three (3)-year term at the first annual
meeting of the shareholders of First Merchants following the Effective Date or
(ii) to be appointed as a member of the First Merchants' Board of Directors at
the next meeting of the First Merchants' Board of Directors following the
Effective Date to serve until the first annual meeting of the shareholders of
First Merchants following the Effective Date and then to be nominated for
election as a member of the First Merchants' Board of Directors for a three
(3)-year term at the first annual meeting of the shareholders of First Merchants
following the Effective Date, whichever can be effected first depending on the
timing of the occurrence of the Effective Date.
8.04. PRESS RELEASE. Except as required by law, First Merchants shall not
issue any press release to any national wire service relating solely to the
Merger without the prior approval of Xxx Financial.
8.05. CONFIDENTIALITY. First Merchants shall, and shall use its best
efforts to cause its officers, employees, and authorized representatives to,
hold in strict confidence all confidential data and information obtained by it
from Xxx Financial or the Bank, unless such information (i) was already known to
First Merchants, (ii) becomes available to First Merchants from other sources,
(iii) is independently developed by First Merchants, (iv) is disclosed outside
of First Merchants with and in accordance with the terms of prior written
approval of Xxx Financial or the Bank, or (v) is or becomes readily
ascertainable from public or published information or trade sources or public
disclosure of such information is required by law or requested by a court or
other governmental agency, commission, or regulatory body. First Merchants
further agrees that in the event this Agreement is terminated, it will return to
Xxx Financial all information obtained by First Merchants regarding Xxx
Financial or the Bank, including all copies made of such information by First
Merchants. This provision shall survive the Effective Date or the earlier
termination of this Agreement.
Ex. 10(h)-29
8.06. COVENANTS REGARDING THE BANK. Upon consummation of the Merger, the
Bank shall be a national bank organized under the laws of the United States and
the officers and directors of the Bank in office immediately prior to the
consummation of the Merger shall be the officers and directors of the Bank at
the Effective Date subject to the provisions of the Bank's Articles of
Association and By-Laws. Thereafter, the Bank directors who desire to continue
to serve in that capacity shall do so for at least the remainder of the one (1)
year terms to which they have been elected. The Bank directors will be subject
to First Merchants' policy of mandatory retirement at age seventy (70);
provided, however, the policy of mandatory retirement will not apply to any of
the Bank's current directors until twelve (12) months after the Effective Date.
First Merchants intends to continue to operate the Bank as an operating
subsidiary of First Merchants under the name "The First National Bank of
Portland" with no changes in the number or locations of branches.
SECTION 9
CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO THE MERGER
The obligation of each of the parties hereto to consummate the transactions
contemplated by this Agreement is subject to the satisfaction and fulfillment of
each of the following conditions on or prior to the Effective Date:
9.01. SHAREHOLDER APPROVAL. The shareholders of Xxx Financial shall have
approved, ratified and confirmed this Agreement as required by applicable law.
9.02. REGISTRATION STATEMENT EFFECTIVE. First Merchants shall have
registered its shares of common stock to be issued to shareholders of Xxx
Financial in accordance with this Agreement with the Securities and Exchange
Commission pursuant to the 1933 Act, and all state securities and "blue sky"
approvals and authorizations required to offer and sell such shares shall have
been received by First Merchants. The registration statement with respect
thereto shall have been declared effective by the Securities and Exchange
Commission and no stop order shall have been issued or threatened.
9.03. TAX OPINION. The parties shall have obtained an opinion of counsel,
which shall be in form and content satisfactory to counsel for all parties
hereto, to the effect that the Merger effected pursuant to this Agreement shall
constitute a tax-free transaction (except to the extent cash or boot is
received) to each party hereto and to the shareholders of each party. Such
opinion shall be based upon factual representations received by such counsel
from the parties, which representations may take the form of written
certifications.
Ex. 10(h)-30
9.04. AFFILIATE AGREEMENTS. First Merchants and the Bank shall have
obtained (a) from Xxx Financial, a list identifying each affiliate of Xxx
Financial and (b) from each affiliate of Xxx Financial, the agreements
contemplated by Section 7.06 hereof.
9.05. REGULATORY APPROVALS. The Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve
System and the Indiana Department of Financial Institutions shall have
authorized and approved the Merger and the transactions related thereto. In
addition, all appropriate orders, consents, approvals and clearances from all
other regulatory agencies and governmental authorities whose orders, consents,
approvals or clearances are required by law for consummation of the transactions
contemplated by this Agreement shall have been obtained.
9.06. OFFICER'S CERTIFICATE. First Merchants and Xxx Financial shall have
delivered to each other a certificate signed by their Chairman or President and
their Secretary, dated the Effective Date, certifying that (a) all the
representations and warranties of their respective corporations are true,
accurate and correct on and as of the Effective Date; (b) all the covenants of
their respective corporations have been complied with from the date of this
Agreement through and as of the Effective Date; and (c) their respective
corporations have satisfied and fully complied with all conditions necessary to
make this Agreement effective as to them.
9.07. FAIRNESS OPINION. Xxx Financial shall have obtained an opinion from
an investment banker of its choosing to the effect that the terms of the Merger
are fair to the shareholders of Xxx Financial from a financial viewpoint. Such
opinion shall be (a) in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to Xxx
Financial, (b) dated as of a date not later than the mailing date of the Proxy
Statement relating to the Merger and (c) included in the Proxy Statement.
9.08. POOLING OF INTERESTS. First Merchants shall have obtained from its
independent accountants, Olive, LLC, a letter stating that, based upon their
review of such documents and information which they deemed relevant, such firm
is currently unaware of any reason why the Merger cannot be accounted for as a
"pooling of interests."
9.09. NO JUDICIAL PROHIBITION. Neither Xxx Financial, the Bank nor First
Merchants shall be subject to any order, decree or injunction of a court or
agency of competent jurisdiction which enjoins or prohibits the consummation of
the Merger.
9.10. CHANGE OF CONTROL AGREEMENTS. First Merchants shall have offered
Change of Control Agreements to Xxxxx Xxxxxx and Xxx Xxxxxxxxxx.
Ex. 10(h)-31
SECTION 10
TERMINATION OF MERGER
10.01. MANNER OF TERMINATION. This Agreement and the transactions
contemplated hereby may be terminated at any time prior to the Effective Date by
written notice delivered by First Merchants to Xxx Financial or by Xxx Financial
to First Merchants only for the following reasons:
(a) By Xxx Financial or First Merchants, if there has been a material
misrepresentation, a breach of warranty or a failure to comply with any
covenant on the part of any party in the representations, warranties, and
covenants set forth herein; provided that the party in default shall have
no right to terminate for its own default;
(b) By Xxx Financial or First Merchants, if it shall determine in its
sole discretion that the transactions contemplated by this Agreement have
become inadvisable or impracticable by reason of commencement or threat of
material litigation or proceedings against any of the parties;
(c) By Xxx Financial or First Merchants, if the financial condition,
business, assets, or results of operations of the other party shall have
been materially and adversely changed from that in existence at June 30,
1998;
(d) By Xxx Financial or First Merchants, if the transaction
contemplated herein has not been consummated by April 30, 1999 (provided
that the terminating party is not then in material breach of any
representation, warranty, covenant or other agreement contained herein);
(e) By First Merchants if any of the items, events or information set
forth in any update to the Disclosure Letter has had or may have a material
adverse effect on the financial condition, results of operations, business,
or prospects of Xxx Financial or the Bank;
(f) By First Merchants or Xxx Financial if, in the opinion of counsel
to First Merchants or Xxx Financial, the Merger will not constitute a
tax-free reorganization under the Code;
(g) By First Merchants if the Merger cannot be accounted for as a
"pooling of interests";
(h) By First Merchants or Xxx Financial pursuant to their respective
termination rights set forth in Section 3.04 hereof;
Ex. 10(h)-32
(i) By First Merchants pursuant to its termination rights set forth
in Section 7.11 hereof; or
(j) By First Merchants, if it shall determine in its sole discretion
that the transactions contemplated by this Agreement have become
inadvisable or impracticable by reason of any matters disclosed in the
Disclosure Letter received by First Merchants in accordance with Section
7.08 hereof or contained in any of the documents, instruments or agreements
referenced in the Disclosure Letter.
10.02. EFFECT OF TERMINATION. Upon termination by written notice, as
provided in this Section, this Agreement shall be void and of no further force
or effect and there shall be no obligation on the part of Xxx Financial or First
Merchants or their respective officers, directors, employees, agents, or
shareholders, except for payment of their respective expenses and performance of
their respective obligations under Sections 7.09 and 8.05.
SECTION 11
EFFECTIVE DATE OF MERGER
Subject to the terms and upon satisfaction of all requirements of law and
the conditions specified in this Agreement, the Merger shall become effective at
the close of business on the day specified in the Articles of Merger of Xxx
Financial with and into First Merchants as filed with the Secretary of State of
the State of Indiana (the "Effective Date"). The Effective Date shall occur no
later than the last business day of the month in which any waiting period
following the last approval of the Merger by a state or federal regulatory
agency or governmental authority expires.
SECTION 12
CLOSING
12.01. CLOSING DATE AND PLACE. The closing of the Merger (the "Closing")
shall take place at the main office of First Merchants on the Effective Date or
at such other place as mutually agreed to by First Merchants and Xxx Financial.
12.02. ARTICLES OF MERGER. Subject to the provisions of this Agreement,
on the Effective Date, the Articles of Merger shall be duly filed with the
Secretary of State of the State of Indiana.
Ex. 10(h)-33
12.03. OPINIONS OF COUNSEL. At the Closing, Xxx Financial shall deliver
an opinion of its counsel, Xxxxx XxXxxxx Xxxxxxxxx & Xxxxxxxx, to First
Merchants, and First Merchants shall deliver an opinion of its counsel, Xxxxxxx
Xxxxxxx Xxxxx & Xxxxxxx, to Xxx Financial, dated as of the date of the Closing.
The form of such opinions shall be as mutually agreed to by the parties hereto
and their respective counsel.
SECTION 13
MISCELLANEOUS
13.01. EFFECTIVE AGREEMENT. This Agreement shall be binding upon and
inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective successors and
permitted assigns, but none of the provisions thereof shall inure to the benefit
of any other person, firm, or corporation whomsoever, except as expressly
applied to the officers and directors of First Merchants and Xxx Financial.
Neither this Agreement nor any of the rights, interests, or obligations
hereunder shall be assigned or transferred by either party hereto without the
prior written consent of the other party.
13.02. WAIVER; AMENDMENT.
(a) First Merchants and Xxx Financial may, by an instrument in
writing executed in the same manner as this Agreement: (i) extend the time
for the performance of any of the covenants or agreements of the other
party under this Agreement; (ii) waive any inaccuracies in the
representations or warranties of the other party contained in this
Agreement or in any document delivered pursuant hereto or thereto; (iii)
waive the performance by the other party of any of the covenants or
agreements to be performed by it or them under this Agreement; or (iv)
waive the satisfaction or fulfillment of any condition the nonsatisfaction
or nonfulfillment of which is a condition to the right of the party so
waiving to terminate this Agreement. The waiver by any party hereto of a
breach of any provision of this Agreement shall not operate or be construed
as a waiver of any other or subsequent breach hereunder.
(b) Notwithstanding the prior approval by the shareholders of Xxx
Financial, this Agreement may be amended, modified or supplemented by the
written agreement of Xxx Financial and First Merchants without further
approval of such shareholders, except that no such amendment, modification
or supplement shall result in a decrease in the consideration specified in
Section 3 hereof or shall materially adversely affect the rights of the
shareholders of Xxx Financial without the further approval of such
shareholders.
Ex. 10(h)-34
13.03. NOTICES. Any notice required or permitted by this Agreement shall
be deemed to have been duly given if delivered in person, receipted for or sent
by certified mail, return receipt requested, postage prepaid, addressed as
follows:
If to First Merchants: With a copy to:
000 X. Xxxxxxx Xxxxxx, Xxx 000 Xxxxxxx Xxxxxxx Xxxxx & Xxxxxxx
Xxxxxx, XX 00000 2700 Market Tower
Attn: Xxxxxx X. Xxxxxxxx, 00 Xxxx Xxxxxx Xxxxxx
President and Chief Executive Xxxxxxxxxxxx, Xxxxxxx 00000-0000
Officer Attn: Xxxxx X. Xxxxxxxx, Esq.
If to Xxx Financial: With a copy to:
000 Xxxx Xxxx Xxxxxx Xxxxx XxXxxxx Xxxxxxxxx & Xxxxxxxx
P.O. Box 1089 One Indiana Square, Suite 2800
Portland, IN 47371 Xxxxxxxxxxxx, Xxxxxxx 00000
Attn: Xxxxx Xxxxxx, President Attn: Xxxxxxx X. Xxxxxxxx, Esq.
or to such substituted address as any of them have given to the other in
writing. Notwithstanding the foregoing, all notices required to be given
pursuant to Sections 3.04(b) and 3.04(c) hereof shall be given in the time
periods specified in such sections by either hand delivery or facsimile
transmission to the specified parties.
13.04. HEADINGS. The headings in this Agreement have been inserted solely
for the ease of reference and should not be considered in the interpretation or
construction of this Agreement.
13.05. SEVERABILITY. In case any one or more of the provisions contained
herein shall, for any reason, be held to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable
in any respect, such invalidity, illegality, or unenforceability shall not
affect any other provision of this Agreement, but this Agreement shall be
construed as if such invalid, illegal, or unenforceable provision or provisions
had never been contained herein.
13.06. COUNTERPARTS. This Agreement may be executed in any number of
counterparts, each of which shall be an original, but such counterparts shall
together constitute one and the same instrument. In addition, this Agreement
and the documents to be delivered hereunder may be executed by the parties
hereto either manually or by facsimile signatures, each of which shall
constitute an original signature.
13.07. GOVERNING LAW. This Agreement is executed in and shall be
construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Indiana.
Ex. 10(h)-35
13.08. ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This Agreement supersedes any other agreement,
whether oral or written, between First Merchants and Xxx Financial relating to
the matters contemplated hereby, and constitutes the entire agreement between
the parties hereto.
13.09. EXPENSES. First Merchants and Xxx Financial shall each pay their
own expenses incidental to the transactions contemplated hereby. It is
understood that the cost of the fairness opinion referenced in Section 9.07
shall be borne by Xxx Financial whether or not the Merger is consummated. This
provision shall survive the Effective Date or the earlier termination of this
Agreement.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, First Merchants and Xxx Financial have made and entered
into this Agreement as of the day and year first above written and have caused
this Agreement to be executed and attested by their duly authorized officers.
FIRST MERCHANTS CORPORATION
ATTEST:
/s/ Xxxxx X. Xxxxx By: /s/ Xxxxxx X. Xxxxxxxx
------------------------------- ---------------------------------------
Xxxxx X. Xxxxx, Secretary Xxxxxx X. Xxxxxxxx, President and Chief
Executive Officer
XXX FINANCIAL CORPORATION
ATTEST:
/s/ Xxxxxxx Xxxxx By: /s/ Xxxxx Xxxxxx
------------------------------- ---------------------------------------
Xxxxxxx Xxxxx, M.D., Secretary Xxxxx Xxxxxx, Presiden
Ex. 10(h)-36
