Bank Notes
Double Digit Earnings Growth in Second Quarter
The Bank reported net income of $278 thousand for the quarter ended June 30, 2004, an increase of $100 thousand, or 56.2%, from $178 thousand in the second quarter of 2003. Net income per diluted share was $0.22 for the second quarter of 2004. This was an increase of 29.4% from the $0.17 reported for the second quarter in 2003. The percentage growth in diluted earnings per share is lower than the reported percentage growth in net income because of a large increase in shares outstanding. This increase is primarily due to exercises of warrants and options in the second half of 2003 and additional option exercises during the second quarter of 2004. Zissimos A. Frangopoulos, president and CEO, stated, "We are very pleased with the growth in our business and the continuing gains in our performance and profitability. The second quarter of 2004 was strong and followed a similarly strong first quarter and equally strong performance throughout 2003. It is a pattern that we like."
New National Check Clearing Procedure to Begin in Fall
Starting in October, a new law (known as "Check 21") takes effect that allows U.S. banks to cease returning cancelled checks with monthly statements. Instead, they may provide a copy of your check that is referred to as your "substitute check" and is your legal proof of payment. This system will allow checks to clear faster and help reduce fraud. Many banks have already switched over to this process, and we anticipate that our customers will see this change in due course. In early April, we sent all customers a letter discussing Check 21 along with the brochure "Check 21 and You." If you have any questions, please stop at any of our locations to talk to a Personal Banker and pick up an extra copy of "Check 21 and You," which explains details of this new program.
This Teller's Window Is Always "Open"
NetTeller Internet banking is a completely secure and free service available to all Christiana Bank & Trust Company customers that lets you instantly access account information any time, day or night. Using your account number and personally chosen PIN to log in, you can view balances, transactions and statements; transfer funds between accounts; and even place stop payments on checks*, all at our secure NetTeller website.
Additionally, you can take advantage of NetTeller's Bill Payment features for a $5.00 monthly fee, or at no charge if you have a Rewards Bankingsm account. For small businesses, a broad range of business-related features is also available. Stop in today to ask your Personal Banker for an application or call (302) 421-5800 to request that one be faxed to you.
*Normal stop payment fees apply.
You Can Never Be Too Careful with Financial Records
Recently, a Christiana Bank customer had their checkbook stolen by a cleaning service employee, who attempted unsuccessfully to use them. No checks were actually cashed, and the checkbook was recovered. This incident had a happy ending, but it underscores the need to keep all financial records in your home under tight control, especially if non-family members are routinely on the premises.
Here's three ways you can minimize the chances of a problem:
- Keep your checkbook locked up when you are not actually carrying it.
- Consider placing important records in a safe deposit box at the Bank.
- Consider using our NetTeller internet banking service which eliminates checks.
For advice and counsel concerning the safety and security of your financial records, please stop by and chat with any of our officers.
Put Your Account On Speed Dial
A free service available to all Christiana Bank & Trust Company customers, InTouch Telephone Banking allows you to check balances, transfer funds, list deposits and credits, and conduct searches by check number-all from the convenience of your phone!
And with your InTouch PIN-protected entry, you never have to worry about the security of your account information.
Get 24-hour access to your account information. Call (302) 421-5806 to set up your InTouch PIN number today.
Certificate of Deposit Rates
| Up to $100,000 | Over $100,000 | |
| 3 months | 1.00% | 1.05% |
| 6 months | 1.05% | 1.10% |
| 1 year | 1.25% | 1.45% |
| 2 years | 1.75% | 1.80% |
For more information call our Personal Bankers at (302) 421-5800 or visit us at www.christianabank.com.
Our Stock Symbol
CBTD. Quotations can be found on the OTC Bulletin Board.