ECB BANCORP INC
8-K12G3, 1998-08-06
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                       SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION


                             WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549


                                   FORM 8-KSB


                     PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(B) OR (G) OF THE
                         SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934





DATE OF REPORT (DATE OF EARLIEST EVENT REPORTED): JULY 22, 1998
                                                  -------------

                               ECB BANCORP, INC.
              ----------------------------------------------------
             (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

     NORTH CAROLINA                                              56-2090738
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(State or other jurisdiction          (Commission              (IRS Employer
    of incorporation)                 File Number)           Identification No.)



HWY. 264 
POST OFFICE BOX 337
ENGELHARD, NORTH CAROLINA                    27824 
- --------------------------------------------------------
(Address of principal executive offices)   (Zip Code)



REGISTRANT'S TELEPHONE NUMBER, INCLUDING AREA CODE: (252) 925-9411
                                                    --------------


<PAGE>



 ITEM 2.  ACQUISITION OR DISPOSITION OF ASSETS.

      Registrant was incorporated on March 4, 1998, by and at the direction of
the Board of Directors of The East Carolina Bank (the "Bank") for the purpose of
acquiring the Bank and serving as the Bank's parent bank holding
company. Following its incorporation, Registrant conducted no business or
operations other than those activities related to its acquisition of the Bank.

      Effective at 5:01 P.M. on July 22, 1998 (the "Effective Time"), the Bank
became the wholly-owned subsidiary of Registrant in a transaction (the
"Reorganization") effected in accordance with the terms of an Agreement and Plan
of Reorganization and Merger dated March 10, 1998 (the "Agreement"). The
Agreement previously had been approved by the Bank's shareholders at a special
meeting held on May 13, 1998. Pursuant to the Agreement, at the Effective Time
an interim bank subsidiary of Registrant (formed for the sole purpose of
facilitating the Reorganization) was merged into the Bank, each of the 1,780,254
outstanding shares of the Bank's $3.50 par value common stock formerly held by
its shareholders (as adjusted for a 3-for-1 stock split in the Bank's common
stock which became effective immediately prior to the Reorganization) was
automatically converted into one newly issued share of Registrant's $3.50 par
value common stock, and Registrant became the sole shareholder of the Bank. As a
result of the Reorganization, Registrant's current shareholders consist of the
former shareholders of the Bank. Following the Effective Time, shareholders will
receive certificates evidencing their shares of Registrant's common stock in
exchange for and upon the proper surrender of their Bank certificates.

      The Bank is a North Carolina chartered commercial bank which was
incorporated and commenced banking operations during 1919 and which engages in a
general commercial and consumer banking business. The Bank's main banking office
is located on Hwy. 264 in Engelhard, North Carolina. Its operations are
primarily retail oriented and are aimed at individuals and small to medium-sized
businesses located in its market area. The Bank's deposits are insured by the
Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and are derived primarily from customers
located within its market area.

      As provided in the Commission's Rule 12g-3(a) under the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Exchange Act"), Registrant's $3.50 par value common
stock is deemed to be registered under Section 12(g) of the Exchange Act.


<PAGE>






ITEM 7.     FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND EXHIBITS.

      (A)   FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF BUSINESS ACQUIRED.

            The following financial statements of The East Carolina Bank are
            filed herewith:

            (1)    Independent Auditors' Report

            (2)   Consolidated Balance Sheets as of June 30, 1998 (unaudited),
                  and as of December 31, 1997 and 1996

            (3)   Consolidated Statements of Income for the six month periods 
                  ended June 30, 1998 and 1997(unaudited), and for each of the
                  years in the three-year period ended December 31, 1997

            (4)   Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders' Equity for
                  the six months ended June 30, 1998 (unaudited), and for  each 
                  of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 1997

            (5)   Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the six month
                  periods ended June 30, 1998 and 1997 (unaudited), and for each
                  of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 1997

            (6)   Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

      (B)   SUPPLEMENTAL FINANCIAL STATEMENTS. The following financial 
            statements of Registrant (which have been restated to give 
            retroactive effect to Registrant's acquisition of The East Carolina
            Bank) are filed herewith:

            (1)   Independent Auditors' Report

            (2)   Supplemental Consolidated Balance Sheets as of June 30, 1998
                  (unaudited), and as of December 31, 1997 and 1996

            (3)   Supplemental Consolidated Statements of Income for the six 
                  month periods ended June 30, 1998 and 1997 (unaudited), and
                  for each of the years in the three-year period ended 
                  December 31, 1997

            (4)   Supplemental Consolidated Statements of Changes in
                  Shareholders' Equity for the six months ended June 30, 1998 
                  (unaudited), and for each of the years in the three-year
                  period ended December 31, 1997

            (5)   Supplemental Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the six
                  month periods ended June 30, 1998 and 1997 (unaudited), and 
                  for each of the years in the three-year period ended 
                  December 31, 1997

            (6)   Notes to Supplemental Consolidated  Financial Statements

      (C)   EXHIBITS. The exhibits filed herewith are listed on the Exhibit
            Index appearing immediately following the signature page of this
            Report, and such listing is incorporated herein by reference


<PAGE>



                          INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT



The Board of Directors
The East Carolina Bank:


We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of The East
Carolina Bank and subsidiaries as of December 31, 1997 and 1996, and the related
consolidated statements of income, shareholders' equity, and cash flows for each
of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 1997. These
consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Bank's
management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated
financial statements based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material
misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting
the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes
assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by
management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.
We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present
fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of The East Carolina
Bank and subsidiaries as of December 31, 1997 and 1996, and the results of their
operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period
ended December 31, 1997, in conformity with generally accepted accounting
principles.

As discussed in note 7 to the  consolidated  financial  statements,  on January
1, 1995,  the Bank adopted the  provisions  of the  Financial  Accounting  
Standards  Board's  Statement of Financial Accounting  Standards  No. 106,  
EMPLOYER'S  ACCOUNTING  FOR  POSTRETIREMENT  BENEFITS  OTHER THAN
PENSIONS.



                                                   /s/ KPMG Peat Marwick LLP



Raleigh, North Carolina
February 4, 1998, except
   note 15 which is as of July 22, 1998

<PAGE>

                     THE EAST CAROLINA BANK AND SUBSIDIARIES

                           Consolidated Balance Sheets

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>


                                                               June 30, 1998             December 31,
                                                                                     ------------------
             Assets                                             (Unaudited)         1997            1996
             ------                                             -----------         ----            ----
<S> <C>

Non-interest bearing deposits and cash (note 11)           $    15,525,442       8,280,694       7,861,625
Federal funds sold                                               1,850,000       4,425,000       6,550,000
                                                                -----------      ----------      ----------
      Total cash and cash equivalents                           17,375,442      12,705,694      14,411,625
                                                                -----------      ----------      ----------
              
Investment securities (note 2):
  Available-for-sale (cost: $43,292,953, $46,655,155
   and $34,435,638, respectively)                               43,855,081      47,119,973      34,588,505

Loans (note 3)                                                 130,963,770     121,208,810     112,655,981
Allowance for possible loan losses (note 4)                     (2,690,474)     (2,660,000)     (2,400,000)
                                                                -----------      ----------    -----------
        Loans, net                                             128,273,296     118,548,810     110,255,981
                                                               -----------     ------------    -----------
  
Real estate acquired in settlement of loans, net                   -               340,000           -
Real estate held for sale, net                                     -               150,000         200,000
Federal Home Loan Bank common stock, at cost                       564,800         503,000           -
Bank premises and equipment, net (note 5)                        6,316,325       6,266,283       5,538,229
Accrued interest receivable                                      2,106,461       1,922,814       1,519,320
Other assets (note 6)                                              618,630         671,148         703,934

                                                            $  199,110,035     188,227,722     167,217,594
                                                               ===========     ===========     ===========
            
    Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity
    ------------------------------------

Deposits (note 9):
   Demand, noninterest bearing                                  41,488,495      31,897,001      27,211,047
   Demand, interest bearing                                     41,426,399      41,256,397      39,052,101
   Savings                                                      14,509,606      14,712,835      15,153,369
   Time                                                         83,393,054      83,042,628      69,919,045
                                                               -----------      ----------      ----------
      Total deposits                                           180,817,554     170,908,861     151,335,562
                                                               -----------     -----------     -----------

Accrued interest payable                                           771,003         698,997         583,732
Postretirement benefit liability (note 7)                          527,640         515,640         473,640
Other liabilities (note 7)                                         314,413         390,931         575,114
                                                               -----------     -----------       ---------
      Total liabilities                                        182,430,610     172,514,429     152,968,048
                                                               -----------     -----------     -----------

Shareholders' equity (notes 14 and 15):
  Common stock, par value $3.50 per share; authorized
   10,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding 1,780,254
   shares at June 30, 1998, December 31, 1997 and 1996           6,230,889       6,230,889       6,230,889
  Capital surplus                                                3,200,000       3,200,000       3,200,000
  Retained earnings                                              6,877,531       5,975,624       4,717,766
  Unrealized gain on available-for-sale securities, net            371,005         306,780         100,891
                                                                 ---------       ---------       ---------
      Total shareholders' equity                                16,679,425      15,713,293      14,249,546
                                                                ==========      ==========      ==========

Commitments and contingencies (note 12)

                                                            $  199,110,035      188,227,722    167,217,594
                                                               ===========      ===========    ===========

</TABLE>

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.



<PAGE>



                     THE EAST CAROLINA BANK AND SUBSIDIARIES

                        Consolidated Statements of Income


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                         Six months
                                                        ended June 30, 
                                                         (Unaudited)                     Year ended December 31,
                                                -----------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                  1998           1997             1997            1996          1995
                                                  ----           ----             ----            ----          ----
<S> <C>                                                                                                     
                                                                                                            
Interest income:                                                                                            
  Interest and fees on loans                $  5,819,440       5,336,974       10,887,327      9,521,265      8,754,549
  Interest on investment securities:                                                                        
   Interest exempt from federal income taxes     361,933         228,337          511,653        472,206        469,306
   Taxable interest income                       900,724         845,587        1,749,612      1,918,789      2,207,869
  Interest on federal funds sold                  83,027         187,639          490,623        301,265        371,806
      Total interest income                    7,165,124       6,598,537       13,639,215     12,213,525     11,803,530
Interest expense:                                                                                           
  Deposits (note 9):                                                                                        
   Demand accounts                               313,841         347,918          698,635        699,138        804,115
   Savings                                       144,501         151,035          308,012        328,029        407,471
   Time                                        2,206,847       2,130,914        4,357,110      3,804,230      3,995,593
  Other                                            7,637             786              786          9,459          8,746
                                               ---------       ---------        ---------      ---------      ---------
      Total interest expense                   2,672,826       2,630,653        5,364,543      4,840,856      5,215,925
      Net interest income                      4,492,298       3,967,884        8,274,672      7,372,669      6,587,605
Provision for possible loan losses (note 4)      120,000         210,000          353,513        496,914        515,066
                                               ---------       ---------        ---------      ---------     ----------
      Net interest income after provision for                                                               
        possible loan losses                   4,372,298       3,757,884        7,921,159      6,875,755      6,072,539
                                               ---------       ---------        ---------      ---------      ---------
                                                                                                            
Other income:                                                                                               
  Service charges on deposit accounts            659,564         675,668        1,391,136      1,102,866        982,601
  Other service charges and fees                 262,432         225,506          524,638        419,128        516,890
  Net gain (loss) on sale of securities             -                -                -            5,662         (4,663)
  Net gain on sale of real estate acquired                                                                  
     in settlement of loans                                                                                 
     and real estate held for sale                 6,476             -                -          110,960          3,400
  Other operating income                          13,059          18,095           30,293         79,448        171,290
                                               ---------        ---------        --------        -------       ---------
        Total other income                       941,531         919,269        1,946,067      1,718,064      1,669,518
                                               ---------        ---------       ---------      ---------      ---------
                                                                                                            
Other expenses:                                                                                             
  Salaries                                     1,566,250       1,442,548        2,938,570      2,770,184      2,624,186
  Retirement and other employee benefits                                                                    
   (note 7)                                      482,093         442,191          971,474        939,505        619,020
  Occupancy                                      347,768         294,152          623,134        549,613        478,113
  Equipment                                      417,114         338,450          768,244        563,478        500,123
  Deposit insurance premiums                      10,158          14,147           24,589          1,500        190,055
  Professional fees                              178,699          66,219          209,038        198,298        271,588
  Supplies                                       121,522         106,527          221,978        183,942        153,933
  Telephone                                      137,350          96,636          216,821        176,034        193,260
  Postage                                         84,557          74,682          150,311        143,458        133,325
  Other operating expenses                       796,411         577,322        1,419,816      1,259,044      1,004,271
        Total other expenses                   4,141,922       3,452,874        7,543,975      6,785,056      6,167,874
                                               ---------       ---------        ---------      ---------      ---------
                                                                                                            
        Income before income taxes and                                                                      
           cumulative effect of a change                                                                    
           in accounting for                                                                                
           postretirement benefits             1,171,907       1,224,279        2,323,251      1,808,763      1,574,183
                                                                                                            
Income taxes (note 6)                            270,000         355,000          650,000        475,000        384,000
                                               ---------        ---------        --------        -------       ---------
                                                                                                            
        Income before cumulative effect                                                                     
           of a change in accounting for                                                                    
           postretirement benefits               901,907         869,279        1,673,251      1,333,763      1,190,183
                                                                                                            
Cumulative effect for years prior to                                                                        
   January 1, 1995 of a change in                                                                           
   accounting for postretirement                                                                            
   benefits, net of income taxes                                                                            
   (note 7)                                         -               -               -              -           (278,555)
                                               ----------      ----------     -----------      ---------      ----------
        Net income                        $      901,907         869,279        1,673,251      1,333,763        911,628
                                               ==========      ==========      ==========      =========      ==========
                                                                                                            
Net income per share (basic and diluted):                                                                   
   Income before cumulative effect of a                                                                     
     change in accounting for                                                                               
     postretirement benefits              $         0.51           0.49              0.94           0.75           0.67
   Cumulative effect for years prior to                                                                     
     January 1, 1995 of a change in                                                                         
     accounting for postretirement                                                                          
     benefits                                      -                 -                -            -              (0.16)
                                               ----------      ----------     -----------      ---------      ---------- 
   Net income                             $         0.51           0.49              0.94           0.75           0.51
                                               ==========      ==========     ===========      =========      ==========
                                                                                                          

</TABLE>

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
<PAGE>
            
                     THE EAST CAROLINA BANK AND SUBSIDIARIES

                 Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity

                Years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995 and
                   six months ended June 30, 1998 (Unaudited)




<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                      COMMON STOCK
                                         ---------------------------------------                 UNREALIZED
                                            NUMBER                    CAPITAL       RETAINED        GAINS
                                          OF SHARES      AMOUNT       SURPLUS       EARNINGS      (LOSSES)         TOTAL
                                         ----------- ------------- ------------- ------------- -------------- --------------
<S>                                      <C>         <C>           <C>           <C>           <C>            <C>
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 1994 ...........    593,418   $5,934,180    $3,000,000    $3,704,923     $ (734,929)   $11,904,174
  Common stock issued in 1998
   three-for-one stock split (note 15)..  1,186,836      296,709       200,000      (496,709)            --             --
                                          ---------   ----------    ----------    ----------     ----------    -----------
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 1994, AS
  RESTATED .............................  1,780,254    6,230,889     3,200,000     3,208,214       (734,929)    11,904,174
  Change in unrealized gains (losses),
   net of income tax benefit of
   $498,100.............................         --           --            --            --        966,893        966,893
  Net income ...........................         --           --            --       911,628             --        911,618
  Cash dividends ($.20 per share).......         --           --            --      (356,051)            --       (356,051)
                                          ---------   ----------    ----------    ----------     ----------    -----------
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 1995 ...........  1,780,254    6,230,889     3,200,000     3,763,791        231,964     13,426,644
  Change in unrealized gains (losses),
   net of income taxes of $67,500.......         --           --            --            --       (131,073)      (131,073)
  Net income ...........................         --           --            --     1,333,763             --      1,333,763
  Cash dividends ($.21 per share).......         --           --            --      (379,788)            --       (379,788)
                                          ---------   ----------    ----------    ----------     ----------    -----------
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 1996 ...........  1,780,254    6,230,889     3,200,000     4,717,766        100,891     14,249,546
  Change in unrealized gains (losses),
   net of income taxes of $106,000......         --           --            --            --        205,889        205,889
  Net income ...........................         --           --            --     1,673,251             --      1,673,251
  Cash dividends ($.23 per share).......         --           --            --      (415,393)            --       (415,393)
                                          ---------   ----------    ----------    ----------     ----------    -----------
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 1997 ...........  1,780,254    6,230,889     3,200,000     5,975,624        306,780     15,713,293
  Change in unrealized gains (losses),
   net of income taxes of $33,100
   (Unaudited) .........................         --           --            --            --         64,225         64,225
  Net income (Unaudited) ...............         --           --            --       901,907             --        901,907
                                          ---------   ----------    ----------    ----------     ----------    -----------
BALANCE AT JUNE 30, 1998
  (Unaudited) ..........................  1,780,254   $6,230,889    $3,200,000    $6,877,531     $  371,005    $16,679,425
                                          =========   ==========    ==========    ==========     ==========    ===========
</TABLE>
<PAGE>



                    THE EAST CAROLINA BANK AND SUBSIDIARIES

               Supplemental Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                         Six months
                                                        ended June 30, 
                                                         (Unaudited)                   Year ended December 31,
                                                ----------------------------------------------------------------
                                                 1998               1997     1997            1996           1995
                                                 ----               ----     ----            ----           ----

<S> <C>

Cash flows from operating activities:
   Net income                               $   901,907           869,279    1,673,251     1,333,763       911,628
   Adjustments to reconcile net income to net
     cash provided by operating activities:
      Depreciation                              327,262           251,587      545,852       445,314       377,844
      Amortization of premium on investment
        securities, net                          24,040            26,914       51,838         9,870         2,165
      Provision for possible loan losses        120,000           210,000      353,513       496,914       515,066
      Provision for loss on real estate held
        for sale                                   -                 -          50,000        53,800        23,800
      Deferred income taxes                        -                 -         (33,700)     (128,500)     (187,000)
      Loss (gain) on sale of available-for-
        sale securities                            -                 -          25,818        (5,662)        4,663
      Loss (gain) on sale of real estate
        acquired in settlement of loans and
        real estate held for sale                (6,476)             -              95      (110,960)       (3,400)
      Loss (gain) on disposal of premises
        and equipment                              -                7,442        7,242         8,384      (122,583)
      Decrease (increase) in accrued interest
        receivable                             (183,647)         (303,746)    (403,494)      (74,499)        4,678
      Decrease (increase) in other assets        19,432          (318,594)        (914)       (8,989)        8,158
      Increase (decrease) in accrued interest
        payable                                  72,006           206,311      115,265       (72,264)      300,240
      Increase in postretirement benefit
       liability                                 12,000            21,000       42,000        28,000       445,640
      Increase (decrease) in other liabilities  (76,518)         (340,302)    (184,183)      106,518       195,173
                                               ---------         --------     ---------     ---------     ---------
        Net cash provided by operating
          activities                          1,210,006           629,891    2,242,583     2,081,689     2,476,072
                                              ---------           --------   ---------     ---------     ---------
Cash flows from investing activities:
   Proceeds from sales of investment
       securities classified as available-
       for-sale                                   -                  -       3,015,439       513,924     3,486,953
   Proceeds from maturities of investment
       securities classified as available-
       for-sale                               7,479,588        10,248,033   13,349,710    21,500,092    14,361,272
   Proceeds from maturities of investment
       securities classified as held-
       to-maturity                                -                  -           -             -         1,301,500
   Purchases of investment securities
       classified as available-for-sale      (4,141,425)      (12,863,018) (28,662,322)   (9,033,608)   (5,296,508)
   Purchases of investment securities
       classified as held-to-maturity             -                  -           -             -        (9,006,181)
   Purchase of Federal Home Loan Bank
       common stock                             (61,800)         (503,000)    (503,000)        -             -
   Proceeds from disposal of premises
       and equipment                              3,325            23,372       23,665        21,842       217,744
   Purchases of premises and equipment         (380,629)         (565,147)  (1,304,813)     (592,433)     (796,094)
   Proceeds from disposal of real estate
       acquired in settlement of loans
       and real estate held for sale            496,476              -          50,263       406,653        68,316
   Net loan repayments (originations)        (9,844,486)       (9,029,442)  (9,075,362)  (18,146,433)   (9,046,448)
                                            -----------        -----------  -----------   ------------  -----------
        Net cash used by investing
         activities                          (6,448,951)      (12,689,202) (23,106,420)   (5,329,963)   (4,709,446)
                                            -----------       -----------  -----------   ------------  -----------
Cash flows from financing activities:
   Net increase (decrease) in deposits        9,908,693        18,781,877   19,573,299       924,642     9,391,452
   Dividends paid                                -                   -        (415,393)     (379,788)     (356,051)
                                             -----------        -----------  -----------   ------------  -----------
        Net cash provided by financing
          activities                          9,908,693        18,781,877   19,157,906       544,854     9,035,401
                                             -----------        -----------  -----------   ------------  -----------

Increase (decrease) in cash and cash
  equivalents                                 4,669,748         6,722,566   (1,705,931)   (2,703,420)    6,802,027
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning
  of year                                    12,705,694        14,411,625   14,411,625    17,115,045    10,313,018
                                            -----------        -----------  -----------   ------------  -----------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of
  year                                    $  17,375,442        21,134,191   12,705,694    14,411,625    17,115,045
                                            -----------        -----------  -----------   ------------  -----------

Supplemental disclosure of noncash
  financing and investing activities:
   Unrealized gains (losses) on
    available-for-sale securities,
     net of deferred taxes                $      64,225            21,303      205,889      (131,073)      966,893
                                          =============         ==========   ==========    ===========   ==========

</TABLE>

          See accompanying notes to consolidated financial 
statements.

<PAGE>




                     THE EAST CAROLINA BANK AND SUBSIDIARIES

             Notes to Supplemental Consolidated Financial Statements




(1) Summary of Significant Accounting and Reporting Policies

   (a) Consolidation

   The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of The East
   Carolina Bank (the "Bank") and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Carolina
   Financial Realty, Inc. and Carolina Financial Courier, Inc. Significant
   intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
   All adjustments considered necessary for a fair presentation of the results
   for interim periods presented have been made (such adjustments are normal
   and recurring in nature).


   Operating results for the six-month period ended June 30, 1998 are not
   necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year
   ending December 31, 1998.

   (b) Basis of Financial Statement Presentation

   The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted
   accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions
   that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of
   contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the balance sheets and
   the reported amounts of income and expenses for the periods presented. Actual
   results could differ significantly from those estimates.

   Material estimates that are particularly susceptible to significant change in
   the near-term relate to the determination of the allowance for loan losses.
   In connection with the determination of the allowance for loan losses, 
   management obtains independent appraisals for significant properties held as
   collateral for loans.

   (c) Business

   The Bank provides financial services through its branch network located in
   eastern North Carolina. The Bank competes with other financial institutions
   and numerous other non-financial services commercial entities offering
   financial services products. The Bank is further subject to the regulations
   of certain federal and state agencies and undergoes periodic examinations by
   those regulatory authorities.

  (d) Cash and Cash Equivalents

  Cash and cash equivalents include demand and time deposits (with original
  maturities of ninety days or less) at other financial institutions and federal
  funds sold. Generally, federal funds are purchased and sold for one-day
  periods.

  (e) Investment Securities

  Management determines the appropriate classification of investment securities
  at the time of purchase and reevaluates such designation at each reporting
  date. Securities are classified as held-to-maturity ("HTM") when the Bank has
  both the positive intent and ability to hold the securities to maturity. HTM
  securities are stated at amortized cost. Securities not classified as HTM are
  classified as available-for-sale ("AFS"). AFS securities are stated at fair
  value as determined by reference to published sources, with the unrealized
  gains and losses, net of income taxes, reported as a separate component of
  shareholders' equity. The Bank has no trading securities.



<PAGE>



(1) Summary of Significant Accounting and Reporting Policies, Continued

  (e) Investment Securities, Continued

  The amortized cost of securities classified as HTM or AFS is adjusted for
  amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts to maturity. Such
  amortization is included in interest income from investments. Realized gains
  and losses, and declines in value judged to be other-than-temporary are
  included in net securities gains (losses). The cost of securities sold is
  based on the specific identification method.

  (f) Loans Receivable

  Loans are generally stated at their outstanding unpaid principal balances net
  of any deferred fees or costs. Loan origination fees net of certain direct
  loan origination costs are deferred and amortized as a yield adjustment over
  the contractual life of the related loans using the level-yield method.

  Interest on loans is recorded based on the principal amount outstanding. The
  Bank ceases accruing interest on loans (including impaired loans) when, in
  management's judgement, the collection of interest income appears doubtful or
  the loan is past due 90 days or more. Management may return a loan classified
  as nonaccrual to accrual status when the obligation has been brought current,
  has performed in accordance with its contractual terms over an extended period
  of time, and the ultimate collectibility of the total contractual principal
  and interest is no longer in doubt.

  (g) Allowance for Loan Losses

  The allowance for loan losses ("AFLL") is established through provisions for
  losses charged against income. Loan amounts deemed to be uncollectible are
  charged against the AFLL, and subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to
  the allowance. The AFLL represents management's estimate of the amount
  necessary to absorb potential future losses existing in the loan portfolio.
  Management believes that the AFLL is adequate. Management's periodic
  evaluation of the adequacy of the allowance is based on individual loan
  reviews, past loan loss experience, economic conditions in the Bank's market
  areas, the fair value and adequacy of underlying collateral, and the growth
  and risk composition of the loan portfolio. This evaluation is inherently
  subjective as it requires material estimates, including the amounts and timing
  of future cash flows expected to be received on impaired loans, that may be
  susceptible to significant change. Thus, future additions to the AFLL may be
  necessary based on the impact of changes in economic conditions. In addition,
  various regulatory agencies, as an integral part of their examination process,
  periodically review the Bank's AFLL. Such agencies may require the Bank to
  recognize additions to the AFLL based on their judgments about information
  available to them at the time of their examination.

  Under the provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS")
  No. 114, "Accounting by Creditors for Impairment of a Loan," as amended by
  SFAS No. 118, "Accounting by Creditors for Impairment of a Loan - Income
  Recognition and Disclosures" (collectively referred to hereafter as "SFAS No.
  114"), the AFLL related to loans that are identified for evaluation in
  accordance with the standard is based on discounted cash flows using the
  loan's initial effective interest rate, the loan's observable market price, or
  the fair value of the collateral for collateral dependent loans.



<PAGE>



(1) Summary of Significant Accounting and Reporting Policies, Continued

  (h) Real Estate Acquired in Settlement of Loans

  Real estate acquired in settlement of loans consists of property acquired
  through a foreclosure proceeding or acceptance of a deed-in-lieu of
  foreclosure and loans classified as in-substance foreclosure. In accordance
  with SFAS No. 114, a loan is classified as in-substance foreclosure when the
  Bank has taken possession of the collateral regardless of whether formal
  foreclosure proceedings have taken place. Real estate acquired in settlement
  of loans is recorded initially at the lower of the loan balance plus unpaid
  accrued interest or estimated fair value of the property less estimated
  selling costs at the date of foreclosure. The initial recorded value may be
  subsequently reduced by additional allowances, which are charged to earnings,
  if the estimated fair value of the property declines below the initial
  recorded value. Costs related to the improvement of the property are
  capitalized, whereas those related to holding the property are expensed. Such
  properties are held for sale and, accordingly, no depreciation or amortization
  expense is recognized. Loans with outstanding principal balances totalling
  $390,358, $-0- and $89,600 were foreclosed on during the years ended December
  31, 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively.

  (i) Membership/Investment in Federal Home Loan Bank Stock

  In 1997, the Bank became a member of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta
  ("FHLB"). Membership, along with a signed blanket collateral agreement,
  provides the Bank with the ability to draw $13 million of advances from the
  FHLB. No advances were drawn by the Bank in 1997.

  As a requirement for membership, the Bank invests in stock of the FHLB in the
  amount of 1% of its outstanding residential loans or 5% of its outstanding
  advances from the FHLB, whichever is greater. Such stock is pledged as
  collateral for any FHLB advances drawn by the Bank. At December 31, 1997, the
  Bank owned 5,030 shares of the FHLB's $100 par value capital stock. No ready
  market exists for such stock, which is carried at cost.

  (j) Bank Premises and Equipment

  Bank premises and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation.
  Depreciation is computed by the straight-line method and is charged to
  operations over the estimated useful lives of the assets which range from 25
  to 50 years for bank premises and 3 to 10 years for furniture and equipment.

  Maintenance, repairs, renewals and minor improvements are charged to expense
  as incurred. Major improvements are capitalized and depreciated.

  (k) Income Taxes

  The Bank records income taxes using the asset and liability method. Under this
  method, deferred income taxes are determined based on temporary differences
  between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities using
  enacted tax rates expected to be in effect when such amounts are realized or
  settled.


<PAGE>



(1) Summary of Significant Accounting and Reporting Policies, Continued

  (l) Employee Benefit Plans

  The Bank has in place a postretirement benefit plan covering certain retirees
  and a defined contribution 401(k) plan that covers all eligible employees. The
  Bank had a noncontributory defined benefit retirement plan that covered
  substantially all employees which was terminated in 1995 with final pay-out of
  accrued benefits occurring in 1996 (see note 7).

  (m) Net Income/Dividends Per Share

  The Bank adopted SFAS No. 128, "Earnings Per Share", in 1997, which requires
  net income per share to be calculated on both a basic and diluted basis. Net
  income per share is computed based on the weighted average number of common
  shares outstanding during the year and represents basic and diluted net income
  per share for 1997, 1996 and 1995. Because the Bank has no potentially
  dilutive securities, restatement of 1996 and 1995 net income per share amounts
  was not necessary. Dividends per share are based on the shares outstanding
  at the time of dividend declaration. All share and per share amounts have
  been restated to give effect to the three-for-one stock split on July 22,
 1998 (see note 15).

   (n) Reclassifications

  Certain 1995 and 1996 amounts have been reclassified in the financial
  statements to conform with the 1997 presentation. The reclassifications had no
  effect on previously reported net income or retained earnings.

 (2)  Investment Securities

  The following is a summary of the securities portfolios by major
  classification:

                                               December 31, 1997
                               -------------------------------------------------
                                              Gross       Gross      Approximate
                               Amortized   unrealized   unrealized     market
                                 cost         gains       losses        value
                              ----------   ----------   ----------   -----------
Securities available-for-sale:
 U.S. Treasury obligations  $ 25,072,694    156,543       (1,087)     25,228,150
 Securities of other U.S.
   government agencies
   and corporations            7,821,384     15,710       (2,427)      7,834,667
 Obligations of states and
   political subdivisions     13,761,077    300,592       (4,513)     14,057,156
                              ----------    -------        -----      ----------
      Total                 $ 46,655,155    472,845       (8,027)     47,119,973
                              ==========    =======        =====      ==========



<PAGE>



(2) Investment Securities, Continued

                                            December 31, 1996
                               -----------------------------------------------
                                             Gross       Gross    Approximate
                               Amortized  unrealized  unrealized    market
                                 cost        gains      losses       value
                               ---------  ---------  ----------- -------------
  Securities available-for-sale:
   U.S. Treasury obligations $ 15,983,515     23,180     (12,086)    15,994,609
   Securities of other U.S.
     government agencies
     and corporations           9,357,841      3,430     (21,514)     9,339,757
   Obligations of states and
     political subdivisions     9,094,282    205,266     (45,409)     9,254,139
                              -----------    -------      ------    -----------
        Total               $  34,435,638    231,876     (79,009)    34,588,505
                               ==========    =======      ======     ==========

  Gross realized gains and losses on sales of securities for the years ended
  December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995 were as follows:

                                           1997        1996        1995
                                           ----        ----        ----
  Gross realized gains                 $    -         5,662       1,500
  Gross realized losses                  (25,818)        -       (6,163)
                                          ------      ------      -----
      Net realized gains (losses)      $ (25,818)     5,662      (4,663)
                                          ======      =====       =====

  The aggregate amortized cost and approximate market value of the
  available-for-sale securities portfolio at December 31, 1997, by remaining
  contractual maturity are as follows:
                                                                  Approximate
                                                       Amortized    market
                                                         cost        value
                                                       ---------  -----------
  U.S. Treasury obligations:
   Due in one year or less                         $    5,995,765   5,997,500
   Due in one year through five years                  19,076,929  19,230,650
  Securities of other U.S. government
   agencies and corporations:
     Due in one year or less                            3,296,330   3,295,163
     Due in one year through five years                 3,745,042   3,756,291
     Due after ten years                                  780,012     783,213
  Obligations of states and political subdivisions:
     Due in one year or less                              190,035     190,353
     Due in one year through five years                 5,489,847   5,611,142
     Due after five through ten years                   3,659,958   3,780,614
     Due after ten years                                4,421,237   4,475,047
                                                       ---------- -----------
      Total securities                              $  46,655,155  47,119,973
                                                       ==========  ==========

Securities with a principal amount of approximately $18,272,000 at December 31, 
1997 are pledged as collateral for deposits.


<PAGE>



(3)Loans

  Loans at December 31, 1997 and 1996 classified by type, are as follows:

                                                        1997       1996
                                                        ----       ----

  Commercial, financial and agricultural         $  26,074,410   22,906,424
  Real estate loans:
   Construction                                      1,490,215      972,127
   Mortgage, commercial and residential             64,943,072   67,278,983
  Installment                                       28,845,615   21,670,249
                                                  ------------- -----------
                                                   121,353,312  112,827,783
   Less deferred fees and costs, net                   144,502      171,802
                                                --------------- -------------
                                                 $ 121,208,810  112,655,981
                                                   ===========  ===========
  Included in the above:
   Nonaccrual loans                              $   1,462,831    1,017,453
                                                 ============== ============
   Restructured loans                            $     522,352      350,024
                                                =============== =============

  At December 31, 1997, the recorded investment in loans that are considered to
  be impaired under SFAS No. 114 was $797,000 (all on a non-accrual basis).
  Included in this amount is $112,000 of impaired loans for which the related
  AFLL is $112,000 and $685,000 of impaired loans that as a result of
  write-downs and collateral values do not have an AFLL. The average recorded
  investment in impaired loans during the year ended December 31, 1997 was
  approximately $810,000. For the year ended December 31, 1997, the Bank
  recognized interest income on those impaired loans of $26,000, all of which
  was recognized using the cash basis method of income recognition.

  At December 31, 1996, the recorded investment in loans that are considered to
  be impaired under SFAS No. 114 was $919,000 (all on a non-accrual basis).
  Included in this amount is $53,000 of impaired loans for which the related
  AFLL is $53,000 and $866,000 of impaired loans that as a result of write-downs
  and collateral values do not have an AFLL. The average recorded investment in
  impaired loans during the year ended December 31, 1996 was approximately
  $1,016,000. For the year ended December 31, 1996, the Bank recognized interest
  income on those impaired loans of $18,000, all of which was recognized using
  the cash basis method of income recognition.

  Interest income that would have been recorded on nonaccrual loans for the
  years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995 had they performed in accordance
  with the original terms throughout each of the periods amounted to
  approximately $161,000, $119,000 and $62,000, respectively. Actual interest
  income recorded on nonaccrual loans for the years ended December 31, 1997,
  1996 and 1995 was $25,000, $23,000 and $41,000, respectively. Interest income
  on restructured loans included in the results of operations for each of the
  years amounted to approximately $53,000, $41,000 and $119,000, respectively.

  Loans at December 31, 1997 and 1996 include loans to officers and directors
  and their associates totaling approximately $1,103,000 and $1,801,000,
  respectively. During 1997, $787,000 in loans were disbursed to officers,
  directors and their associates and principal repayments of $1,485,000 were
  received on such loans.


<PAGE>



(3) Loans, Continued

  The Bank, through its normal lending activity, originates and maintains loans
  receivable which are substantially concentrated in the Eastern region of North
  Carolina, where its offices are located. The Bank's policy calls for
  collateral or other forms of repayment assurance to be received from the
  borrower at the time of loan origination. Such collateral or other form of
  repayment assurance is subject to changes in economic value due to various
  factors beyond the control of the Bank and such changes could be significant.

  At December 31, 1997, $66,433,287, or 54.81%, of the Bank's loan portfolio was
  composed of loans principally collateralized by liens on real estate. Of that
  amount, approximately $23,963,000, or 19.77%, represents loans collateralized
  by owner-occupied residential real estate.

(4) Allowance for Possible Loan Losses

  An analysis of the allowance for possible loan losses for the years ended
  December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995 follows:

                                            1997        1996        1995
                                            ----        ----        ----

  Beginning balance                   $  2,400,000   1,950,000   1,900,000
  Provision for possible loan losses       353,513     496,914     515,066
  Recoveries                               100,838     218,843      83,433
  Loans charged off                       (194,351)   (265,757)   (548,499)
                                         ---------  ----------  ----------
  Ending balance                      $  2,660,000   2,400,000   1,950,000
                                         =========   =========   =========

(5) Bank Premises and Equipment

  An analysis of premises and equipment at December 31, 1997 and 1996 follows:

                                                  Accumulated  Undepreciated
                                        Cost     depreciation      cost
                                        ----     ------------      ----
  December 31, 1997:
   Land                        $    1,177,138              -     1,177,138
   Land improvements                  243,541        161,959        81,582
   Buildings                        5,270,762      1,535,891     3,734,871
   Furniture and equipment          4,201,127      2,928,435     1,272,692
                                  -----------      ---------     ---------
        Total                  $   10,892,568      4,626,285     6,266,283
                                   ==========      =========     =========

  December 31, 1996:
   Land                        $    1,177,138              -     1,177,138
   Land improvements                  220,103        198,869        21,234
   Buildings                        4,936,591      1,322,548     3,614,043
   Furniture and equipment          3,530,902      2,805,088       725,814
                                  -----------      ---------    ----------
        Total                  $    9,864,734      4,326,505     5,538,229
                                  ===========      =========     =========



<PAGE>



(6) Income Taxes

  The components of income tax expense (benefit) are as follows:

                                         Current    Deferred    Total
                                         -------    --------    -----
  Year ended December 31, 1997:
     Federal                           $  660,700    (33,700)   627,000
     State                                 23,000      -         23,000
                                         --------   --------   --------
                                       $  683,700    (33,700)   650,000
                                          =======    =======    =======
  Year ended December 31, 1996:
     Federal                           $  599,500   (128,500)   471,000
     State                                  4,000     -           4,000
                                          -------    --------   -------
                                       $  603,500   (128,500)   475,000
                                          =======    =======    =======
  Year ended December 31, 1995:
     Federal                           $  420,000    (43,000)   377,000
     State                                  7,000      -          7,000
                                        ---------   --------    -------
                                       $  427,000    (43,000)   384,000
                                          =======   ========    =======

  Total income tax expense was less than the amount computed by applying the
  federal income tax rate of 34% to income before income taxes. The reasons for
  the difference were as follows:

                                                  Years ended December 31,
                                            ----------------------------------
                                               1997        1996        1995
                                               ----        ----        ----

  Income taxes at statutory rate          $  790,000     615,000     535,000
  Increase (decrease) resulting from:
     Effect of non-taxable interest income  (187,000)   (179,000)   (163,000)
     Other, net                               47,000      39,000      12,000
  Applicable income taxes                 $  650,000     475,000     384,000
                                             =======     =======     =======

  The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to significant
  portions of the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities at December
  31, 1997 and 1996 are presented below:

                                                        1997        1996
                                                        ----        ----
  Deferred tax assets:
     Allowance for possible loan losses             $  680,000     591,600
     Writedown of other real estate                     78,000      60,400
     Postretirement benefits                           175,300     161,000
     Other                                               3,200      43,400
                                                     ---------    --------
           Total gross deferred tax assets             936,500     856,400
                                                       -------     -------


<PAGE>



(6) Income Taxes, Continued

                                                          1997        1996
                                                          ----        ----

  Deferred tax liabilities:
     Bank premises and equipment, principally due
      to differences in depreciation                  $  245,400     196,500
     Unrealized holding gains on securities available
      for sale                                           158,000      52,000
     Other                                                22,000      24,500
                                                        --------    --------
           Total gross deferred tax liabilities          425,400     273,000
                                                        --------    --------

           Net deferred tax asset                     $  511,100     583,400
                                                         =======     =======

  The Bank has no valuation allowance at December 31, 1997 or 1996, because
  management has determined that it has sufficient taxable income in the
  carryback period to support the realizability of the net deferred tax asset.

  Income  taxes paid during each of the three years ended  December  31,  1997,
  1996 and 1995 were $749,400, $534,100 and $382,300, respectively.

(7) Retirement Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits

  Net periodic pension cost for 1996 and 1995 for the Bank's defined benefit
  pension plan consists of the following components:

                                                        1996        1995
                                                        ----        ----

  Service cost-benefits earned during the period    $      -          -
  Interest cost on projected benefit obligation         69,647     102,175
  Actual return on plan assets                         (19,084)    (90,250)
  Net amortization and deferral                            629      63,075
  Effect of change in PBGC rate                         53,808        -
                                                      --------    --------
     Net periodic pension expense                   $  105,000      75,000
                                                       =======    ========



<PAGE>



(7) Retirement Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits, Continued

  In 1994, the Plan benefits were frozen in anticipation of a complete plan
  termination. The Bank approved termination of the Plan in 1995. The Plan
  termination was approved by the Internal Revenue Service in 1996 and all Plan
  benefits were paid to participants.

  On June 1, 1994, the Bank implemented a defined contribution 401(k) plan that
  covers all eligible employees. The Bank matches employee contributions up to
  certain amounts as defined in the plan. Total expense related to this plan was
  $117,355, $100,588 and $100,993 in 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively.

  The Bank also has a postretirement benefit plan whereby the Bank pays
  postretirement health care benefits for certain of its retirees that have met
  minimum age and service requirements. The Bank adopted SFAS No. 106,
  "Employer's Accounting for Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions", as of
  January 1, 1995. The cumulative effect of this change in accounting for the
  Bank's liability for postretirement benefits of $422,555 was determined as of
  January 1, 1995, and is reported separately in the 1995 statement of income,
  net of a deferred income tax benefit of $144,000.

  Net  periodic  postretirement benefit cost  for  1997, 1996 and 1995 includes
  the  following components:

                                                    1997     1996     1995
                                                    ----     ----     ----

      Service cost                              $  6,478    4,832    4,516
      Interest cost                               35,522   31,966   29,578
                                                  ------   ------   ------
      Net periodic postretirement benefit cost  $ 42,000   36,798   34,094
                                                  ======   ======   ======

  The following table presents the plan's funded status at December 31, 1997 and
1996:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C> 
                                                                        1997       1996
                                                                        ----       ----
      Accumulated postretirement benefit obligation "APBO"):
        Retirees                                                   $ (304,323)   (235,252)
        Other fully eligible active employees                               -     (70,362)
        Other active participants                                    (145,172)   (158,910)
         Total accumulated benefit obligation                        (449,495)   (464,524)
      Unrecognized gain on changes in acturarial assumptions          (66,145)     (9,116)
                                                                      --------    ---------
      Plan assets at fair value                                             -           -
                                                                      ---------   ---------

      Accrued postretirement benefit cost                          $ (515,640)   (473,640)
                                                                      =======     =======



Weighted average discount rate in determining APBO .........          7.0%           7.0%
Annual health care cost trend rate .........................          9.0            9.0
Ultimate medical trend rate ................................          8.0            8.0
Medical trend rate period (in years) .......................            5              5
Effect of 1% increase in assumed health care cost on:
 Service and interest cost .................................         16.4%          17.3%
 APBO ......................................................         15.0           15.7
</TABLE>

<PAGE>



(8) Related Party Transactions

  The Bank has banking transactions in the ordinary course of business with
  several of its directors and officers, and their associates. Such transactions
  are on the same terms as those prevailing at the time for comparable
  transactions with others. In the opinion of management, loans made to
  directors, officers and their associates do not involve more than the normal
  risk of collectibility or present any other unfavorable features (see note 3).

(9) Deposits

  At December 31, 1997 and 1996, certificates of deposit of $100,000 or more
  amounted to approximately $19,503,067 and $17,835,000, respectively.

  For the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995, interest expense on
  certificates of deposit of $100,000 or more amounted to approximately
  $1,057,000, $1,038,000 and $1,236,000, respectively.

  The Bank made interest  payments of $5,249,278,  $4,903,660 and $4,906,909
  during the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively.

  Time deposit  accounts as of December 31, 1997,  mature in the following years
  and amounts:  1998 - $77,864,727; 1999 - $4,094,535; and 2000 - $1,083,366.

(10) Leases

  The Bank also has several noncancellable operating leases for three branch
  locations. These leases generally contain renewal options for periods ranging
  from three to five years and require the Bank to pay all executory costs such
  as maintenance and insurance. Rental expense for operating leases during 1997
  and 1996 was $69,758 and $25,000, respectively.

  Future minimum lease payments under noncancellable operating leases (with
  initial or remaining lease terms in excess of one year) as of December 31,
  1997 are as follows:

      Year ending December 31,
         1998                                          $    65,797
         1999                                               65,797
         2000                                               61,147
         2001                                               35,887
         2002                                                9,879
         Thereafter                                          -
                                                           -------
            Total minimum lease payments                $  238,507
                                                           =======

(11)        Reserve Requirements

  The aggregate net reserve balances maintained under the requirements of the
  Federal Reserve, which are noninterest bearing, were approximately $2,032,000
  at December 31, 1997.


<PAGE>



(12) Commitments and Contingencies

  The Bank has various financial instruments (outstanding commitments) with
  off-balance sheet risk that are issued in the normal course of business to
  meet the financing needs of its customers. These financial instruments
  included commitments to extend credit of $16,316,000 and standby letters of
  credit of $223,000, at December 31, 1997.

  The Bank's exposure to credit loss for commitments to extend credit and
  standby letters of credit is the contractual amount of those financial
  instruments. The Bank uses the same credit policies for making commitments and
  issuing standby letters of credit as it does for on-balance sheet financial
  instruments. Each customer's creditworthiness is evaluated on an individual
  case-by-case basis. The amount and type of collateral, if deemed necessary by
  management, is based upon this evaluation of creditworthiness. Collateral
  obtained varies, but may include marketable securities, deposits, property,
  plant and equipment, investment assets, real estate, inventories and accounts
  receivable. Management does not anticipate any significant losses as a result
  of these financial instruments and anticipates their funding from normal
  operations.

(13) Fair Value of Financial Instruments

  Fair value estimates are made by management at a specific point in time, based
  on relevant information about the financial instrument and the market. These
  estimates do not reflect any premium or discount that could result from
  offering for sale at one time the Bank's entire holdings of a particular
  financial instrument nor are potential taxes and other expenses that would be
  incurred in an actual sale considered. Fair value estimates are based on
  judgments regarding future expected loss experience, current economic
  conditions, risk characteristics of various financial instruments, and other
  factors. These estimates are subjective in nature and involve uncertainties
  and matters of significant judgment and therefore cannot be determined with
  precision. Changes in assumptions and/or the methodology used could
  significantly affect the estimates disclosed. Similarly, the fair values
  disclosed could vary significantly from amounts realized in actual
  transactions.

  Fair value estimates are based on existing on- and off-balance sheet financial
  instruments without attempting to estimate the value of anticipated future
  business and the value of assets and liabilities that are not considered
  financial instruments.


<PAGE>



(13)        Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Continued

  The following table presents the carrying values and estimated fair values of
  the Bank's financial instruments at December 31, 1997 and 1996:

                                       1997                     1996
                               ----------------------  -----------------------
                                Carrying    Estimated   Carrying    Estimated
                                  value    fair value     value    fair value
                                --------   ----------   --------   -----------
  Financial assets:
   Non-interest bearing
    deposits and cash       $   8,185,000   8,185,000   7,862,000   7,862,000
   Federal funds sold           4,425,000   4,425,000   6,550,000   6,550,000
   Investment securities       47,120,000  47,120,000  34,589,000  34,589,000
   FHLB common stock              503,000     503,000           -           -
   Net loans                  118,549,000 119,094,000 110,256,000 109,408,000

  Financial liabilities:
   Deposits                   170,909,000 171,137,000 151,336,000 151,426,000

  The estimated fair values of net loans and deposits at December 31 are based
  on cash flows discounted at market interest rates. The carrying values of
  other financial instruments, including various receivables and payables,
  approximate fair value.

(14) Regulatory Matters

  The Bank is subject to various regulatory capital requirements administered by
  the federal banking agencies. Failure to meet minimum capital requirements can
  initiate certain mandatory, and possibly additional discretionary, actions by
  regulators that, if undertaken, could have a direct material effect on the
  Bank's financial statements. Under capital adequacy guidelines and the
  regulatory framework for prompt corrective action, the Bank must meet specific
  capital guidelines that involve quantitative measures of the Bank's assets,
  liabilities, and certain off-balance sheet items as calculated under
  regulatory accounting practices. The Bank's capital amounts and classification
  are also subject to qualitative judgments by the regulators about components,
  risk weightings, and other factors.

  The Bank, as a North Carolina chartered bank, may pay dividends only out of
  undivided profits as determined pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes
  Section 53-87. However, regulatory authorities may limit payment of dividends
  by any bank when it is determined that such a limitation is in the public
  interest and is necessary to ensure the financial soundness of the Bank.

  Quantitative measures established by regulation to ensure capital adequacy
  require the Bank to maintain minimum amounts and ratios (set forth in the
  table below) of total and Tier I capital (as defined in the regulations) to
  risk-weighted assets (as defined), and of Tier I capital to average assets (as
  defined). Management believes, as of December 31, 1997, that the Bank meets
  all capital adequacy requirments to which it is subject.



<PAGE>



(14)Regulatory Matters, Continued

  As of December 31, 1997, the most recent notification from the Federal Deposit
  Insurance Corporation ("FDIC") categorized the Bank as well-capitalized under
  the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action. To be categorized as
  well-capitalized, the Bank must maintain minimum total risk-based, Tier I
  risk-based, and Tier I leverage ratios as set forth in the table. There are no
  conditions or events since that notification that management believes have
  changed the Bank's category.

  The Bank's actual capital amounts, in thousands, and ratios are presented in
  the following table:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>


                                                                       To be well
                                                                      capitalized
                                                                      under prompt
                                                    For capital        corrective
                                      Actual     adequacy purposes action provisions
                                 --------------- ----------------  -----------------
                                 Amount    Ratio       Ratio             Ratio
                                 ------    -----       -----             -----
<S> <C>
  As of December 31, 1997:
   Total Capital
     (to Risk Weighted Assets)   $ 16,973  13.66%     =>8.0%            =>10.00%
   Tier I Capital
     (to Risk Weighted Assets)   $ 15,406  12.40%     =>4.0%             =>6.00%
   Tier I Capital
     (to Average Assets)         $ 15,406   8.53%     =>4.0%             =>5.00%


  As of December 31, 1996:
   Total Capital
     (to Risk Weighted Assets)   $ 15,577  13.75%     =>8.0%            =>10.00%
   Tier I Capital
     (to Risk Weighted Assets)   $ 14,149  12.49%     =>4.0%              =>6.0%
   Tier I Capital
     (to Average Assets)         $ 14,149   8.53%     =>4.0%             =>5.00%

</TABLE>

  In May 1995, the Bank Insurance Fund ("BIF") of the FDIC reached its
  designated ratio of reserves to insured deposits (i.e., 1.25%). For this
  reason, the FDIC reduced the assessment rate applicable to BIF deposits in two
  stages, so that, beginning in 1996, the deposit insurance premiums for 92% of
  all BIF members in the highest capital and supervisory categories were set at
  $1,500 per year, regardless of deposit size. Beginning in 1997, BIF members
  were required to begin paying FICO-bond assessments in addition to the $1,500
  annual assessment. The FICO bond assessment was $23,089 for the Bank in 1997.

(15) Subsequent Events

  On July 22, 1998, and pursuant to a charter amendment, the Bank effected a
  three-for-one stock split of the Bank's common stock increasing the number of
  shares of common stock from 593,418 to 1,780,254. Additionally, by way of the
  same charter amendment, the Bank increased the post-split par value of the
  common stock from $3.33 per share to $3.50 per share. In connection with the
  stock split and increase in par value, the Bank increased the capital surplus
  account in accordance with North Carolina General Statutes Section 53-88. All
  references to the number of common shares and per share amounts in the
  financial statements have been restated as appropriate to reflect the effect
  of the split, for all periods presented. Additionally, common stock, capital
  surplus, and retained earnings have been restated for all periods presented as
  appropriate to reflect the stock split, the increase in par value, and the
  increase in the capital surplus account.

  On July 22, 1998, the Bank was acquired by ECB Bancorp,  Inc. ("Bancorp"), 
  which was newly-formed by the Bank on March 4, 1998, for the purpose of 
  becoming the Bank's parent holding company.  Each  outstanding  share of the
  Bank's common stock was exchanged for one share of Bancorp's  common stock
  with the Bank becoming a wholly-owned  subsidiary of Bancorp.  Bancorp's
  primary purpose is to serve as the parent of the Bank.

<PAGE>

                         INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT


THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
EBC BANCORP, INC.

We have audited the accompanying supplemental consolidated balance sheets of ECB
Bancorp, Inc. and subsidiary (the "Company") as of December 31, 1997 and 1996,
and the related supplemental consolidated statements of income, shareholders'
equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended
December 31, 1997. These supplemental consolidated financial statements are the
responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an
opinion on these supplemental consolidated financial statements based on our
audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material
misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting
the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes
assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by
management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.
We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

The supplemental consolidated financial statements give retroactive effect to
the merger of ECB Bancorp, Inc. and The East Carolina Bank on July 22, 1998,
which has been accounted for in a manner similar to a pooling-of-interests as
described in Note 15 to the supplemental consolidated financial statements.
Generally accepted accounting principles proscribe giving effect to a
consummated business combination accounted for by the pooling-of-interests
method in financial statements that do not include the date of consummation.
These consolidated financial statements do not extend through the date of
consummation. However, they will become the historical consolidated financial
statements of ECB Bancorp, Inc. and subsidiary after financial statements
covering the date of consummation of the business combination are issued.

In our opinion, the supplemental consolidated financial statements referred to
above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of ECB
Bancorp, Inc. and subsidiary as of December 31, 1997 and 1996, and the results
of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the three-year
period ended December 31, 1997, in conformity with generally accepted accounting
principles applicable after financial statements are issued for a period which
includes the date of consummation of the business combination.

As discussed in note 7 to the consolidated financial statements, on January 1,
1995, the Company adopted the provisions of the Financial Accounting Standards
Board's Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 106, EMPLOYER'S
ACCOUNTING FOR POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS OTHER THAN PENSIONS.




                                                 /s/ KPMG PEAT MARWICK LLP



Raleigh, North Carolina
February 4, 1998, except
 note 15 which is as of July 22, 1998

                                      
<PAGE>

                       ECB BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY


                    SUPPLEMENTAL CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS




<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                   DECEMBER 31,
                                                                           JUNE 30, 1998  -------------------------------
                                                                            (Unaudited)         1997            1996
                                                                         ---------------- --------------- ---------------
<S>                                                                      <C>              <C>             <C>
ASSETS
Non-interest bearing deposits and cash (note 11) .......................   $ 15,525,442    $  8,280,694    $  7,861,625
Federal funds sold .....................................................      1,850,000       4,425,000       6,550,000
                                                                           ------------    ------------    ------------
   Total cash and cash equivalents .....................................     17,375,442      12,705,694      14,411,625
                                                                           ------------    ------------    ------------
Investment securities (note 2):
 Available-for-sale (cost: $43,292,953, $46,655,155 and $34,435,638,
   respectively) .......................................................     43,855,081      47,119,973      34,588,505
Loans (note 3) .........................................................    130,963,770     121,208,810     112,655,981
Allowance for possible loan losses (note 4) ............................     (2,690,474)     (2,660,000)     (2,400,000)
                                                                           ------------    ------------    ------------
   Loans, net ..........................................................    128,273,296     118,548,810     110,255,981
                                                                           ------------    ------------    ------------
Real estate acquired in settlement of loans, net .......................             --         340,000              --
Real estate held for sale, net .........................................             --         150,000         200,000
Federal Home Loan Bank common stock, at cost ...........................        564,800         503,000              --
Bank premises and equipment, net (note 5) ..............................      6,316,325       6,266,283       5,538,229
Accrued interest receivable ............................................      2,106,461       1,922,814       1,519,320
Other assets (note 6) ..................................................        618,630         671,148         703,934
                                                                           ------------    ------------    ------------
                                                                           $199,110,035    $188,227,722    $167,217,594
                                                                           ============    ============    ============
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Deposits (note 9):
 Demand, noninterest bearing ...........................................     41,488,495      31,897,001      27,211,047
 Demand, interest bearing ..............................................     41,426,399      41,256,397      39,052,101
 Savings ...............................................................     14,509,606      14,712,835      15,153,369
 Time ..................................................................     83,393,054      83,042,628      69,919,045
                                                                           ------------    ------------    ------------
   Total deposits ......................................................    180,817,554     170,908,861     151,335,562
                                                                           ------------    ------------    ------------
Accrued interest payable ...............................................        771,003         698,997         583,732
Postretirement benefit liability (note 7) ..............................        527,640         515,640         473,640
Other liabilities (note 7) .............................................        314,413         390,931         575,114
                                                                           ------------    ------------    ------------
   Total liabilities ...................................................    182,430,610     172,514,429     152,968,048
                                                                           ------------    ------------    ------------
Shareholders' equity (notes 14 and 15):
 Common stock, par value $3.50 per share; authorized 10,000,000
   shares; issued and outstanding 1,780,254 shares at June 30, 1998,
   December 31, 1997 and 1996 ..........................................      6,230,889       6,230,889       6,230,889
 Capital surplus .......................................................      3,200,000       3,200,000       3,200,000
 Retained earnings .....................................................      6,877,531       5,975,624       4,717,766
 Unrealized gain on available-for-sale securities, net .................        371,005         306,780         100,891
                                                                           ------------    ------------    ------------
   Total shareholders' equity ..........................................     16,679,425      15,713,293      14,249,546
                                                                           ============    ============    ============
Commitments and contingencies (note 12)                                    
                                                                           $199,110,035    $188,227,722    $167,217,594
                                                                           ============    ============    ============
</TABLE>
                                                                           
          See accompanying notes to supplemental consolidated financial
statements.

                                      


<PAGE>

                        ECB BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY


                 SUPPLEMENTAL CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME




<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                          SIX MONTHS
                                                                        ENDED JUNE 30,
                                                                         (Unaudited)
                                                               --------------------------------
                                                                     1998             1997
                                                               ---------------- ---------------
<S>                                                            <C>              <C>
Interest income:
 Interest and fees on loans ..................................   $  5,819,440     $ 5,336,974
 Interest on investment securities:
  Interest exempt from federal income taxes ..................        361,933         228,337
  Taxable interest income ....................................        900,724         845,587
 Interest on federal funds sold ..............................         83,027         187,639
                                                                 ------------     -----------
     Total interest income ...................................      7,165,124       6,598,537
                                                                 ------------     -----------
Interest expense: 
 Deposits (note 9): ..........................................
  Demand accounts ............................................        313,841         347,918
  Savings ....................................................        144,501         151,035
  Time .......................................................      2,206,847       2,130,914
 Other .......................................................          7,637             786
                                                                 ------------     -----------
     Total interest expense ..................................      2,672,826       2,630,653
                                                                 ------------     -----------
     Net interest income .....................................      4,492,298       3,967,884
Provision for possible loan losses (note 4) ..................        120,000         210,000
                                                                 ------------     -----------
     Net interest income after provision for possible
      loan losses ............................................      4,372,298       3,757,884
                                                                 ------------     -----------
Other income: 
 Service charges on deposit accounts .........................        659,564         675,668
 Other service charges and fees ..............................        262,432         225,506
 Net gain (loss) on sale of securities .......................             --              --
 Net gain on sale of real estate acquired in settlement of
  loans and real estate held for sale ........................          6,476              --
 Other operating income ......................................         13,059          18,095
                                                                 ------------     -----------
     Total other income ......................................        941,531         919,269
                                                                 ------------     -----------
Other expenses:
 Salaries ....................................................      1,566,250       1,442,548
 Retirement and other employee benefits (note 7) .............        482,093         442,191
 Occupancy ...................................................        347,768         294,152
 Equipment ...................................................        417,114         338,450
 Deposit insurance premiums ..................................         10,158          14,147
 Professional fees ...........................................        178,699          66,219
 Supplies ....................................................        121,522         106,527
 Telephone ...................................................        137,350          96,636
 Postage .....................................................         84,557          74,682
 Other operating expenses ....................................        796,411         577,322
                                                                 ------------     -----------
     Total other expenses ....................................      4,141,922       3,452,874
                                                                 ------------     -----------
     Income before income taxes and cumulative effect
      of a change in accounting for postretirement
      benefits ...............................................      1,171,907       1,224,279
Income taxes (note 6) ........................................        270,000         355,000
                                                                 ------------     -----------
     Income before cumulative effect of a change in
      accounting for postretirement benefits .................        901,907         869,279
Cumulative effect for years prior to January 1, 1995 of a
 change in accounting for postretirement benefits, net of
 income taxes (note 7) .......................................             --              --
                                                                 ------------     -----------
     Net income ..............................................   $    901,907     $   869,279
                                                                 ============     ===========
Net income per share (basic and diluted):
  Income before cumulative effect of a change in
    accounting for postretirement benefits ...................   $       0.51     $      0.49
  Cumulative effect for years prior to January 1, 1995 of
    a change in accounting for postretirement benefits .......             --              --
                                                                 ------------     -----------
  Net income .................................................   $       0.51     $      0.49
                                                                 ============     ===========



<CAPTION>
                                                                          YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                               ----------------------------------------------
                                                                     1997             1996           1995
                                                               ---------------- --------------- -------------
<S>                                                            <C>              <C>             <C>
Interest income:
 Interest and fees on loans ..................................   $ 10,887,327    $  9,521,265    $ 8,754,549
 Interest on investment securities:
  Interest exempt from federal income taxes ..................        511,653         472,206        469,306
  Taxable interest income ....................................      1,749,612       1,918,789      2,207,869
 Interest on federal funds sold ..............................        490,623         301,265        371,806
                                                                 ------------    ------------    -----------
     Total interest income ...................................     13,639,215      12,213,525     11,803,530
                                                                 ------------    ------------    -----------
Interest expense: 
 Deposits (note 9): ..........................................
  Demand accounts ............................................        698,635         699,138        804,115
  Savings ....................................................        308,012         328,029        407,471
  Time .......................................................      4,357,110       3,804,230      3,995,593
 Other .......................................................            786           9,459          8,746
                                                                 ------------    ------------    -----------
     Total interest expense ..................................      5,364,543       4,840,856      5,215,925
                                                                 ------------    ------------    -----------
     Net interest income .....................................      8,274,672       7,372,669      6,587,605
Provision for possible loan losses (note 4) ..................        353,513         496,914        515,066
                                                                 ------------    ------------    -----------
     Net interest income after provision for possible
      loan losses ............................................      7,921,159       6,875,755      6,072,539
                                                                 ------------    ------------    -----------
Other income: 
 Service charges on deposit accounts .........................      1,391,136       1,102,866        982,601
 Other service charges and fees ..............................        524,638         419,128        516,890
 Net gain (loss) on sale of securities .......................             --           5,662         (4,663)
 Net gain on sale of real estate acquired in settlement of
  loans and real estate held for sale ........................             --         110,960          3,400
 Other operating income ......................................         30,293          79,448        171,290
                                                                 ------------    ------------    -----------
     Total other income ......................................      1,946,067       1,718,064      1,669,518
                                                                 ------------    ------------    -----------
Other expenses:
 Salaries ....................................................      2,938,570       2,770,184      2,624,186
 Retirement and other employee benefits (note 7) .............        971,474         939,505        619,020
 Occupancy ...................................................        623,134         549,613        478,113
 Equipment ...................................................        768,244         563,478        500,123
 Deposit insurance premiums ..................................         24,589           1,500        190,055
 Professional fees ...........................................        209,038         198,298        271,588
 Supplies ....................................................        221,978         183,942        153,933
 Telephone ...................................................        216,821         176,034        193,260
 Postage .....................................................        150,311         143,458        133,325
 Other operating expenses ....................................      1,419,816       1,259,044      1,004,271
                                                                 ------------    ------------    -----------
     Total other expenses ....................................      7,543,975       6,785,056      6,167,874
                                                                 ------------    ------------    -----------
     Income before income taxes and cumulative effect
      of a change in accounting for postretirement
      benefits ...............................................      2,323,251       1,808,763      1,574,183
Income taxes (note 6) ........................................        650,000         475,000        384,000
                                                                 ------------    ------------    -----------
     Income before cumulative effect of a change in
      accounting for postretirement benefits .................      1,673,251       1,333,763      1,190,183
Cumulative effect for years prior to January 1, 1995 of a
 change in accounting for postretirement benefits, net of
 income taxes (note 7) .......................................             --              --       (278,555)
                                                                 ------------    ------------    -----------
     Net income ..............................................   $  1,673,251    $  1,333,763    $   911,628
                                                                 ============    ============    ===========
Net income per share (basic and diluted):
  Income before cumulative effect of a change in
    accounting for postretirement benefits ...................   $       0.94    $       0.75    $      0.67
  Cumulative effect for years prior to January 1, 1995 of
    a change in accounting for postretirement benefits .......             --              --          (0.16)
                                                                 ------------    ------------    -----------
  Net income .................................................   $       0.94    $       0.75    $      0.51
                                                                 ============    ============    ===========
</TABLE>

         See accompanying notes to supplemental consolidated financial 
statements.

                                      


<PAGE>

                        ECB BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY


          SUPPLEMENTAL CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY


                YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1997, 1996 AND 1995 AND
                   SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 1998 (UNAUDITED)




<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                      COMMON STOCK
                                         ---------------------------------------                 UNREALIZED
                                            NUMBER                    CAPITAL       RETAINED        GAINS
                                          OF SHARES      AMOUNT       SURPLUS       EARNINGS      (LOSSES)         TOTAL
                                         ----------- ------------- ------------- ------------- -------------- --------------
<S>                                      <C>         <C>           <C>           <C>           <C>            <C>
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 1994 ...........    593,418   $5,934,180    $3,000,000    $3,704,923     $ (734,929)   $11,904,174
  Common stock issued in 1998
   three-for-one stock split (note 15)..  1,186,836      296,709       200,000      (496,709)            --             --
                                          ---------   ----------    ----------    ----------     ----------    -----------
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 1994, AS
  RESTATED .............................  1,780,254    6,230,889     3,200,000     3,208,214       (734,929)    11,904,174
  Change in unrealized gains (losses),
   net of income tax benefit of
   $498,100.............................         --           --            --            --        966,893        966,893
  Net income ...........................         --           --            --       911,628             --        911,618
  Cash dividends ($.20 per share).......         --           --            --      (356,051)            --       (356,051)
                                          ---------   ----------    ----------    ----------     ----------    -----------
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 1995 ...........  1,780,254    6,230,889     3,200,000     3,763,791        231,964     13,426,644
  Change in unrealized gains (losses),
   net of income taxes of $67,500.......         --           --            --            --       (131,073)      (131,073)
  Net income ...........................         --           --            --     1,333,763             --      1,333,763
  Cash dividends ($.21 per share).......         --           --            --      (379,788)            --       (379,788)
                                          ---------   ----------    ----------    ----------     ----------    -----------
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 1996 ...........  1,780,254    6,230,889     3,200,000     4,717,766        100,891     14,249,546
  Change in unrealized gains (losses),
   net of income taxes of $106,000......         --           --            --            --        205,889        205,889
  Net income ...........................         --           --            --     1,673,251             --      1,673,251
  Cash dividends ($.23 per share).......         --           --            --      (415,393)            --       (415,393)
                                          ---------   ----------    ----------    ----------     ----------    -----------
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 1997 ...........  1,780,254    6,230,889     3,200,000     5,975,624        306,780     15,713,293
  Change in unrealized gains (losses),
   net of income taxes of $33,100
   (Unaudited) .........................         --           --            --            --         64,225         64,225
  Net income (Unaudited) ...............         --           --            --       901,907             --        901,907
                                          ---------   ----------    ----------    ----------     ----------    -----------
BALANCE AT JUNE 30, 1998
  (Unaudited) ..........................  1,780,254   $6,230,889    $3,200,000    $6,877,531     $  371,005    $16,679,425
                                          =========   ==========    ==========    ==========     ==========    ===========

          See accompanying notes to supplemental consolidated financial statements.

</TABLE>
                                      


<PAGE>

                       ECB BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY


               SUPPLEMENTAL CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS




<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                        SIX MONTHS
                                                                      ENDED JUNE 30,
                                                                       (Unaudited)
                                                             --------------------------------
                                                                   1998            1997
                                                             --------------- ----------------
<S>                                                          <C>             <C>
Cash flows from operating activities:
 Net income ................................................  $    901,907    $      869,279
 Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash
  provided by operating activities:
  Depreciation .............................................       327,262           251,587
  Amortization of premium on investment securities,
    net ....................................................        24,040            26,914
  Provision for possible loan losses .......................       120,000           210,000
  Provision for loss on real estate held for sale ..........            --                --
  Deferred income taxes ....................................            --                --
  Loss (gain) on sale of available-for-sale securities .....            --                --
  Loss (gain) on sale of real estate acquired in
    settlement of loans and real estate held for sale ......        (6,476)               --
  Loss (gain) on disposal of premises and equipment                     --             7,442
  Decrease (increase) in accrued interest receivable .......      (183,647)         (303,746)
  Decrease (increase) in other assets ......................        19,432          (318,594)
  Increase (decrease) in accrued interest payable ..........        72,006           206,311
  Increase in postretirement benefit liability .............        12,000            21,000
  Increase (decrease) in other liabilities .................       (76,518)         (340,302)
                                                              ------------    --------------
    Net cash provided by operating activities ..............     1,210,006           629,891
                                                              ------------    --------------
Cash flows from investing activities:
 Proceeds from sales of investment securities
  classified as available-for-sale .........................            --                --
 Proceeds from maturities of investment securities
  classified as available-for-sale .........................     7,479,588        10,248,033
 Proceeds from maturities of investment securities
  classified as held-to-maturity ...........................            --                --
 Purchases of investment securities classified as
  available-for-sale .......................................    (4,141,425)       (12,863,018)
 Purchases of investment securities classified as
  held-to-maturity .........................................            --                --
 Purchase of Federal Home Loan Bank common stock                   (61,800)         (503,000)
 Proceeds from disposal of premises and equipment ..........         3,325            23,372
 Purchases of premises and equipment .......................      (380,629)         (565,147)
 Proceeds from disposal of real estate acquired in
  settlement of loans and real estate held for sale ........       496,476                --
 Net loan repayments (originations) ........................    (9,844,486)       (9,029,442)
                                                              ------------    --------------
    Net cash used by investing activities ..................    (6,448,951)      (12,689,202)
                                                              ------------    --------------
Cash flows from financing activities:
 Net increase (decrease) in deposits .......................     9,908,693        18,781,877
 Dividends paid ............................................            --                --
                                                              ------------    --------------
    Net cash provided by financing activities ..............     9,908,693        18,781,877
                                                              ------------    --------------
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents ...........     4,669,748         6,722,566
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year .............    12,705,694        14,411,625
                                                              ------------    --------------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year ...................  $ 17,375,442    $   21,134,191
                                                              ============    ==============
Supplemental disclosure of noncash financing and
 investing activities:
 Unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale
  securities, net of deferred taxes ........................  $     64,225    $       21,303
                                                              ============    ==============



<CAPTION>
                                                                          YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                             -------------------------------------------------
                                                                   1997             1996             1995
                                                             ---------------- ---------------- ---------------
<S>                                                          <C>              <C>              <C>
Cash flows from operating activities:
 Net income ................................................  $    1,673,251   $    1,333,763   $    911,628
 Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash
  provided by operating activities:
  Depreciation .............................................         545,852          445,314        377,844
  Amortization of premium on investment securities,
    net ....................................................          51,838            9,870          2,165
  Provision for possible loan losses .......................         353,513          496,914        515,066
  Provision for loss on real estate held for sale ..........          50,000           53,800         23,800
  Deferred income taxes ....................................         (33,700)        (128,500)      (187,000)
  Loss (gain) on sale of available-for-sale securities .....          25,818           (5,662)         4,663
  Loss (gain) on sale of real estate acquired in
    settlement of loans and real estate held for sale ......              95         (110,960)        (3,400)
  Loss (gain) on disposal of premises and equipment                    7,242            8,384       (122,583)
  Decrease (increase) in accrued interest receivable .......        (403,494)         (74,499)         4,678
  Decrease (increase) in other assets ......................            (914)          (8,989)         8,158
  Increase (decrease) in accrued interest payable ..........         115,265          (72,264)       300,240
  Increase in postretirement benefit liability .............          42,000           28,000        445,640
  Increase (decrease) in other liabilities .................        (184,183)         106,518        195,173
                                                              --------------   --------------   ------------
    Net cash provided by operating activities ..............       2,242,583        2,081,689      2,476,072
                                                              --------------   --------------   ------------
Cash flows from investing activities:
 Proceeds from sales of investment securities
  classified as available-for-sale .........................       3,015,439          513,924      3,486,953
 Proceeds from maturities of investment securities
  classified as available-for-sale .........................      13,349,710       21,500,092     14,361,272
 Proceeds from maturities of investment securities
  classified as held-to-maturity ...........................              --               --      1,301,500
 Purchases of investment securities classified as
  available-for-sale .......................................     (28,662,322)      (9,033,608)    (5,296,508)
 Purchases of investment securities classified as
  held-to-maturity .........................................              --               --     (9,006,181)
 Purchase of Federal Home Loan Bank common stock                    (503,000)              --             --
 Proceeds from disposal of premises and equipment ..........          23,665           21,842        217,744
 Purchases of premises and equipment .......................      (1,304,813)        (592,433)      (796,094)
 Proceeds from disposal of real estate acquired in
  settlement of loans and real estate held for sale ........          50,263          406,653         68,316
 Net loan repayments (originations) ........................      (9,075,362)     (18,146,433)    (9,046,448)
                                                              --------------   --------------   ------------
    Net cash used by investing activities ..................     (23,106,420)      (5,329,963)    (4,709,446)
                                                              --------------   --------------   ------------
Cash flows from financing activities:
 Net increase (decrease) in deposits .......................      19,573,299          924,642      9,391,452
 Dividends paid ............................................        (415,393)        (379,788)      (356,051)
                                                              --------------   --------------   ------------
    Net cash provided by financing activities ..............      19,157,906          544,854      9,035,401
                                                              --------------   --------------   ------------
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents ...........      (1,705,931)      (2,703,420)     6,802,027
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year .............      14,411,625       17,115,045     10,313,018
                                                              --------------   --------------   ------------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year ...................  $   12,705,694   $   14,411,625   $ 17,115,045
                                                              ==============   ==============   ============
Supplemental disclosure of noncash financing and
 investing activities:
 Unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale
  securities, net of deferred taxes ........................  $      205,889   $     (131,073)  $    966,893
                                                              ==============   ==============   ============

          See accompanying notes to supplemental consolidated financial statements.

</TABLE>
                                      


<PAGE>

                       ECB BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY


             NOTES TO SUPPLEMENTAL CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


(1) SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING AND REPORTING POLICIES

     (A) CONSOLIDATION

     The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of ECB Bancorp,
Inc. ("Bancorp") (see note 15) and its wholly-owned subsidiary, The East
Carolina Bank (the "Bank") (collectively referred to hereafter as the
"Company"). The Bank has two wholly-owned subsidiaries, Carolina Financial
Realty, Inc. and Carolina Financial Courier, Inc. Significant intercompany
accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. All adjustments
considered necessary for a fair presentation of the results for interim periods
presented have been made (such adjustments are normal and recurring in nature.)

Operating results for the six-month period ended June 30, 1998 are not
necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending
December 31, 1998.


     (B) BASIS OF FINANCIAL STATEMENT PRESENTATION

     The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and
assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and
disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the balance
sheets and the reported amounts of income and expenses for the periods
presented. Actual results could differ significantly from those estimates.

     Material estimates that are particularly susceptible to significant change
in the near-term relate to the determination of the allowance for loan losses.
In connection with the determination of the allowance for loan losses,
management obtains independent appraisals for significant properties held as
collateral for loans.


     (C) BUSINESS

     Bancorp is a bank holding company incorporated in North Carolina. The
principal activity of Bancorp is ownership of the Bank. The Bank provides
financial services through its branch network located in eastern North
Carolina. The Bank competes with other financial institutions and numerous
other non-financial services commercial entities offering financial services
products. The Bank is further subject to the regulations of certain federal and
state agencies and undergoes periodic examinations by those regulatory
authorities.


     (D) CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

     Cash and cash equivalents include demand and time deposits (with original
maturities of ninety days or less) at other financial institutions and federal
funds sold. Generally, federal funds are purchased and sold for one-day
periods.


     (E) INVESTMENT SECURITIES

     Management determines the appropriate classification of investment
securities at the time of purchase and reevaluates such designation at each
reporting date. Securities are classified as held-to-maturity ("HTM") when the
Company has both the positive intent and ability to hold the securities to
maturity. HTM securities are stated at amortized cost. Securities not
classified as HTM are classified as available-for-sale ("AFS"). AFS securities
are stated at fair value as determined by reference to published sources, with
the unrealized gains and losses, net of income taxes, reported as a separate
component of shareholders' equity. The Company has no trading securities.

     The amortized cost of securities classified as HTM or AFS is adjusted for
amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts to maturity. Such
amortization is included in interest income from investments. Realized gains
and losses, and declines in value judged to be other-than-temporary are
included in net securities gains (losses). The cost of securities sold is based
on the specific identification method.


     (F) LOANS RECEIVABLE

     Loans are generally stated at their outstanding unpaid principal balances
net of any deferred fees or costs. Loan origination fees net of certain direct
loan origination costs are deferred and amortized as a yield adjustment over
the contractual life of the related loans using the level-yield method.

     Interest on loans is recorded based on the principal amount outstanding.
The Company ceases accruing interest on loans (including impaired loans) when,
in management's judgement, the collection of interest income appears doubtful
or the loan is past due 90 days or more. Management may return a loan
classified as nonaccrual to accrual status when the obligation


                                      


<PAGE>

                       ECB BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
                  NOTES TO SUPPLEMENTAL CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL
                            STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)

(1) SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING AND REPORTING POLICIES -- (Continued)

has been brought current, has performed in accordance with its contractual
terms over an extended period of time, and the ultimate collectibility of the
total contractual principal and interest is no longer in doubt.


     (G) ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN LOSSES

     The allowance for loan losses ("AFLL") is established through provisions
for losses charged against income. Loan amounts deemed to be uncollectible are
charged against the AFLL, and subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to
the allowance. The AFLL represents management's estimate of the amount
necessary to absorb potential future losses existing in the loan portfolio.
Management believes that the AFLL is adequate. Management's periodic evaluation
of the adequacy of the allowance is based on individual loan reviews, past loan
loss experience, economic conditions in the Company's market areas, the fair
value and adequacy of underlying collateral, and the growth and risk
composition of the loan portfolio. This evaluation is inherently subjective as
it requires material estimates, including the amounts and timing of future cash
flows expected to be received on impaired loans, that may be susceptible to
significant change. Thus, future additions to the AFLL may be necessary based
on the impact of changes in economic conditions. In addition, various
regulatory agencies, as an integral part of their examination process,
periodically review the Company's AFLL. Such agencies may require the Company
to recognize additions to the AFLL based on their judgments about information
available to them at the time of their examination.

     Under the provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards
("SFAS") No. 114, "Accounting by Creditors for Impairment of a Loan," as
amended by SFAS No. 118, "Accounting by Creditors for Impairment of a Loan --
Income Recognition and Disclosures" (collectively referred to hereafter as
"SFAS No. 114"), the AFLL related to loans that are identified for evaluation
in accordance with the standard is based on discounted cash flows using the
loan's initial effective interest rate, the loan's observable market price, or
the fair value of the collateral for collateral dependent loans.


     (H) REAL ESTATE ACQUIRED IN SETTLEMENT OF LOANS

     Real estate acquired in settlement of loans consists of property acquired
through a foreclosure proceeding or acceptance of a deed-in-lieu of foreclosure
and loans classified as in-substance foreclosure. In accordance with SFAS No.
114, a loan is classified as in-substance foreclosure when the Company has
taken possession of the collateral regardless of whether formal foreclosure
proceedings have taken place. Real estate acquired in settlement of loans is
recorded initially at the lower of the loan balance plus unpaid accrued
interest or estimated fair value of the property less estimated selling costs
at the date of foreclosure. The initial recorded value may be subsequently
reduced by additional allowances, which are charged to earnings, if the
estimated fair value of the property declines below the initial recorded value.
Costs related to the improvement of the property are capitalized, whereas those
related to holding the property are expensed. Such properties are held for sale
and, accordingly, no depreciation or amortization expense is recognized. Loans
with outstanding principal balances totalling $390,358, $-0- and $89,600 were
foreclosed on during the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995,
respectively.


     (I) MEMBERSHIP/INVESTMENT IN FEDERAL HOME LOAN BANK STOCK

     In 1997, the Company became a member of the Federal Home Loan Bank of
Atlanta ("FHLB"). Membership, along with a signed blanket collateral agreement,
provides the Company with the ability to draw $13 million of advances from the
FHLB. No advances were drawn by the Company in 1997.

     As a requirement for membership, the Company invests in stock of the FHLB
in the amount of 1% of its outstanding residential loans or 5% of its
outstanding advances from the FHLB, whichever is greater. Such stock is pledged
as collateral for any FHLB advances drawn by the Company. At December 31, 1997,
the Company owned 5,030 shares of the FHLB's $100 par value capital stock. No
ready market exists for such stock, which is carried at cost.


     (J) PREMISES AND EQUIPMENT

     Premises and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation.
Depreciation is computed by the straight-line method and is charged to
operations over the estimated useful lives of the assets which range from 25 to
50 years for bank premises and 3 to 10 years for furniture and equipment.


                                      


<PAGE>

                        ECB BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
     NOTES TO SUPPLEMENTAL CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)

(1) SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING AND REPORTING POLICIES -- (Continued)

     Maintenance, repairs, renewals and minor improvements are charged to
expense as incurred. Major improvements are capitalized and depreciated.


     (K) INCOME TAXES

     The Company records income taxes using the asset and liability method.
Under this method, deferred income taxes are determined based on temporary
differences between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and
liabilities using enacted tax rates expected to be in effect when such amounts
are realized or settled.


     (L) EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

     The Company has in place a postretirement benefit plan covering certain
retirees and a defined contribution 401(k) plan that covers all eligible
employees. The Company had a noncontributory defined benefit retirement plan
that covered substantially all employees which was terminated in 1995 with
final pay-out of accrued benefits occurring in 1996 (see note 7).


     (M) NET INCOME/DIVIDENDS PER SHARE

     The Company adopted SFAS No. 128, "Earnings Per Share", in 1997, which
requires net income per share to be calculated on both a basic and diluted
basis. Net income per share is computed based on the weighted average number of
common shares outstanding during the year and represents basic and diluted net
income per share for 1997, 1996 and 1995. Because the Company has no potentially
dilutive securities, restatement of 1996 and 1995 net income per share amounts
was not necessary. Dividends per share are based on the  shares outstanding
at the time of dividend declaration. All share and per share amounts
have been restated to give effect to the three-for-one stock split on 
July 22, 1998 (see note 15).


     (N) RECLASSIFICATIONS

     Certain 1995 and 1996 amounts have been reclassified in the financial
statements to conform with the 1997 presentation. The reclassifications had no
effect on previously reported net income or retained earnings.


(2) INVESTMENT SECURITIES

     The following is a summary of the securities portfolios by major
classification:



<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                   DECEMBER 31, 1997
                                                                -------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                   GROSS        GROSS      APPROXIMATE
                                                                   AMORTIZED    UNREALIZED   UNREALIZED      MARKET
                                                                     COST          GAINS       LOSSES         VALUE
                                                                -------------- ------------ ------------ --------------
<S>                                                             <C>            <C>          <C>          <C>
Securities available-for-sale:
 U.S. Treasury obligations ....................................  $25,072,694     $156,543     $ (1,087)   $25,228,150
 Securities of other U.S. government agencies and corporations     7,821,384       15,710       (2,427)     7,834,667
 Obligations of states and political subdivisions .............   13,761,077      300,592       (4,513)    14,057,156
                                                                 -----------     --------     --------    -----------
   Total ......................................................  $46,655,155     $472,845     $ (8,027)   $47,119,973
                                                                 ===========     ========     ========    ===========
</TABLE>


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                   DECEMBER 31, 1996
                                                                -------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                   GROSS        GROSS      APPROXIMATE
                                                                   AMORTIZED    UNREALIZED   UNREALIZED      MARKET
                                                                     COST          GAINS       LOSSES         VALUE
                                                                -------------- ------------ ------------ --------------
<S>                                                             <C>            <C>          <C>          <C>
Securities available-for-sale:
 U.S. Treasury obligations ....................................  $15,983,515     $ 23,180    $ (12,086)   $15,994,609
 Securities of other U.S. government agencies and corporations     9,357,841        3,430      (21,514)     9,339,757
 Obligations of states and political subdivisions .............    9,094,282      205,266      (45,409)     9,254,139
                                                                 -----------     --------    ---------    -----------
   Total ......................................................  $34,435,638     $231,876    $ (79,009)   $34,588,505
                                                                 ===========     ========    =========    ===========
</TABLE>

                                      


<PAGE>

                       ECB BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
     NOTES TO SUPPLEMENTAL CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)

(2) INVESTMENT SECURITIES -- (Continued)

     Gross realized gains and losses on sales of securities for the years ended
December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995 were as follows:



<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                            1997        1996       1995
                                        ------------ --------- -----------
<S>                                     <C>          <C>       <C>
Gross realized gains ..................  $      --    $5,662    $  1,500
Gross realized losses .................    (25,818)       --      (6,163)
                                         ---------    ------    --------
 Net realized gains (losses) ..........  $ (25,818)   $5,662    $ (4,663)
                                         =========    ======    ========
</TABLE>

     The aggregate amortized cost and approximate market value of the
available-for-sale securities portfolio at December 31, 1997, by remaining
contractual maturity are as follows:



<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                APPROXIMATE
                                                                  AMORTIZED       MARKET
                                                                    COST           VALUE
                                                               -------------- --------------
<S>                                                            <C>            <C>
U.S. Treasury obligations:
 Due in one year or less .....................................  $ 5,995,765    $ 5,997,500
 Due in one year through five years ..........................   19,076,929     19,230,650
Securities of other U.S. government agencies and corporations:
 Due in one year or less .....................................    3,296,330      3,295,163
 Due in one year through five years ..........................    3,745,042      3,756,291
 Due after ten years .........................................      780,012        783,213
Obligations of states and political subdivisions:
 Due in one year or less .....................................      190,035        190,353
 Due in one year through five years ..........................    5,489,847      5,611,142
 Due after five through ten years ............................    3,659,958      3,780,614
 Due after ten years .........................................    4,421,237      4,475,047
                                                                -----------    -----------
   Total securities ..........................................  $46,655,155    $47,119,973
                                                                ===========    ===========
</TABLE>

     Securities with a principal amount of approximately $18,272,000 at
December 31, 1997 are pledged as collateral for deposits.


(3) LOANS

     Loans at December 31, 1997 and 1996 classified by type, are as follows:



<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       1997           1996
                                                  -------------- --------------
<S>                                               <C>            <C>
Commercial, financial and agricultural ..........  $ 26,074,410   $ 22,906,424
Real estate loans:
 Construction ...................................     1,490,215        972,127
 Mortgage, commercial and residential ...........    64,943,072     67,278,983
Installment .....................................    28,845,615     21,670,249
                                                   ------------   ------------
                                                    121,353,312    112,827,783
                                                   ============   ============
 Less deferred fees and costs, net ..............       144,502        171,802
                                                   ------------   ------------
                                                   $121,208,810   $112,655,981
                                                   ============   ============
Included in the above:
 Nonaccrual loans ...............................  $  1,462,831   $  1,017,453
                                                   ============   ============
 Restructured loans .............................  $    522,352   $    350,024
                                                   ============   ============
</TABLE>

     At December 31, 1997, the recorded investment in loans that are considered
to be impaired under SFAS No. 114 was $797,000 (all on a non-accrual basis).
Included in this amount is $112,000 of impaired loans for which the related
AFLL is


                                      


<PAGE>

                       ECB BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
     NOTES TO SUPPLEMENTAL CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)

(3) LOANS -- (Continued)

$112,000 and $685,000 of impaired loans that as a result of write-downs and
collateral values do not have an AFLL. The average recorded investment in
impaired loans during the year ended December 31, 1997 was approximately
$810,000. For the year ended December 31, 1997, the Company recognized interest
income on those impaired loans of $26,000, all of which was recognized using
the cash basis method of income recognition.

     At December 31, 1996, the recorded investment in loans that are considered
to be impaired under SFAS No. 114 was $919,000 (all on a non-accrual basis).
Included in this amount is $53,000 of impaired loans for which the related AFLL
is $53,000 and $866,000 of impaired loans that as a result of write-downs and
collateral values do not have an AFLL. The average recorded investment in
impaired loans during the year ended December 31, 1996 was approximately
$1,016,000. For the year ended December 31, 1996, the Company recognized
interest income on those impaired loans of $18,000, all of which was recognized
using the cash basis method of income recognition.

     Interest income that would have been recorded on nonaccrual loans for the
years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995 had they performed in accordance
with the original terms throughout each of the periods amounted to
approximately $161,000, $119,000 and $62,000, respectively. Actual interest
income recorded on nonaccrual loans for the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996
and 1995 was $25,000, $23,000 and $41,000, respectively. Interest income on
restructured loans included in the results of operations for each of the years
amounted to approximately $53,000, $41,000 and $119,000, respectively.

     Loans at December 31, 1997 and 1996 include loans to officers and
directors and their associates totaling approximately $1,103,000 and
$1,801,000, respectively. During 1997, $787,000 in loans were disbursed to
officers, directors and their associates and principal repayments of $1,485,000
were received on such loans.

     The Company, through its normal lending activity, originates and maintains
loans receivable which are substantially concentrated in the Eastern region of
North Carolina, where its offices are located. The Company's policy calls for
collateral or other forms of repayment assurance to be received from the
borrower at the time of loan origination. Such collateral or other form of
repayment assurance is subject to changes in economic value due to various
factors beyond the control of the Bank and such changes could be significant.

     At December 31, 1997, $66,433,287, or 54.81%, of the Company's loan
portfolio was composed of loans principally collateralized by liens on real
estate. Of that amount, approximately $23,963,000, or 19.77%, represents loans
collateralized by owner-occupied residential real estate.


(4) ALLOWANCE FOR POSSIBLE LOAN LOSSES

     An analysis of the allowance for possible loan losses for the years ended
December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995 follows:



<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                   1997          1996          1995
                                              ------------- ------------- -------------
<S>                                           <C>           <C>           <C>
Beginning balance ...........................  $2,400,000    $1,950,000    $1,900,000
Provision for possible loan losses ..........     353,513       496,914       515,066
Recoveries ..................................     100,838       218,843        83,433
Loans charged off ...........................    (194,351)     (265,757)     (548,499)
                                               ----------    ----------    ----------
Ending balance ..............................  $2,660,000    $2,400,000    $1,950,000
                                               ==========    ==========    ==========
</TABLE>

                                      


<PAGE>

                       ECB BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
     NOTES TO SUPPLEMENTAL CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)

(5) PREMISES AND EQUIPMENT
     An analysis of premises and equipment at December 31, 1997 and 1996
follows:



<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                    ACCUMULATED   UNDEPRECIATED
                                        COST       DEPRECIATION       COST
                                   -------------- -------------- --------------
<S>                                <C>            <C>            <C>
December 31, 1997:
 Land ............................  $ 1,177,138     $       --     $1,177,138
 Land improvements ...............      243,541        161,959         81,582
 Buildings .......................    5,270,762      1,535,891      3,734,871
 Furniture and equipment .........    4,201,127      2,928,435      1,272,692
                                    -----------     ----------     ----------
   Total .........................  $10,892,568     $4,626,285     $6,266,283
                                    ===========     ==========     ==========
December 31, 1996:
 Land ............................  $ 1,177,138     $       --     $1,177,138
 Land improvements ...............      220,103        198,869         21,234
 Buildings .......................    4,936,591      1,322,548      3,614,043
 Furniture and equipment .........    3,530,902      2,805,088        725,814
                                    -----------     ----------     ----------
   Total .........................  $ 9,864,734     $4,326,505     $5,538,229
                                    ===========     ==========     ==========
</TABLE>

(6) INCOME TAXES

     The components of income tax expense (benefit) are as follows:



<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                CURRENT      DEFERRED      TOTAL
                              ----------- ------------- -----------
<S>                           <C>         <C>           <C>
Year ended December 31, 1997:
 Federal ....................  $660,700    $  (33,700)   $627,000
 State ......................    23,000            --      23,000
                               --------    ----------    --------
                               $683,700    $  (33,700)   $650,000
                               ========    ==========    ========
Year ended December 31, 1996:
 Federal ....................  $599,500    $ (128,500)   $471,000
 State ......................     4,000            --       4,000
                               --------    ----------    --------
                               $603,500    $ (128,500)   $475,000
                               ========    ==========    ========
Year ended December 31, 1995:
 Federal ....................  $420,000    $  (43,000)   $377,000
 State ......................     7,000            --       7,000
                               --------    ----------    --------
                               $427,000    $  (43,000)   $384,000
                               ========    ==========    ========
</TABLE>

     Total income tax expense was less than the amount computed by applying the
federal income tax rate of 34% to income before income taxes. The reasons for
the difference were as follows:



<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                          YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                  -----------------------------------------
                                                       1997          1996          1995
                                                  ------------- ------------- -------------
<S>                                               <C>           <C>           <C>
Income taxes at statutory rate ..................  $  790,000    $  615,000    $  535,000
Increase (decrease) resulting from:
  Effect of non-taxable interest income .........    (187,000)     (179,000)     (163,000)
  Other, net ....................................      47,000        39,000        12,000
                                                   ----------    ----------    ----------
Applicable income taxes .........................  $  650,000    $  475,000    $  384,000
                                                   ==========    ==========    ==========
</TABLE>

                                      


<PAGE>

                       ECB BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
     NOTES TO SUPPLEMENTAL CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)

(6) INCOME TAXES -- (Continued)

     The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to significant
portions of the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities at December
31, 1997 and 1996 are presented below:



<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                   1997        1996
                                               ----------- -----------
<S>                                            <C>         <C>
Deferred tax assets:
  Allowance for possible loan losses .........  $680,000    $591,600
  Writedown of other real estate .............    78,000      60,400
  Postretirement benefits ....................   175,300     161,000
  Other ......................................     3,200      43,400
                                                --------    --------
   Total gross deferred tax assets ...........  $936,500    $856,400
                                                ========    ========
</TABLE>


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                   1997        1996
                                                                               ----------- -----------
<S>                                                                            <C>         <C>
Deferred tax liabilities:
  Bank premises and equipment, principally due to differences in depreciation   $245,400    $196,500
  Unrealized holding gains on securities available for sale ..................   158,000      52,000
  Other ......................................................................    22,000      24,500
                                                                                --------    --------
   Total gross deferred tax liabilities ......................................   425,400     273,000
                                                                                --------    --------
   Net deferred tax asset ....................................................  $511,100    $583,400
                                                                                ========    ========
</TABLE>

     The Company has no valuation allowance at December 31, 1997 or 1996,
because management has determined that it has sufficient taxable income in the
carryback period to support the realizability of the net deferred tax asset.

     Income taxes paid during each of the three years ended December 31, 1997,
1996 and 1995 were $749,400, $534,100 and $382,300, respectively.


(7) RETIREMENT PLANS AND OTHER POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS

     Net periodic pension cost for 1996 and 1995 for the Company's defined
benefit pension plan consists of the following components:



<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                              1996         1995
                                                          ------------ ------------
<S>                                                       <C>          <C>
Service cost-benefits earned during the period ..........  $      --    $      --
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation ...........     69,647      102,175
Actual return on plan assets ............................    (19,084)     (90,250)
Net amortization and deferral ...........................        629       63,075
Effect of change in PBGC rate ...........................     53,808           --
                                                           ---------    ---------
  Net periodic pension expense ..........................  $ 105,000    $  75,000
                                                           =========    =========
</TABLE>

     In 1994, the Plan benefits were frozen in anticipation of a complete plan
termination. The Company approved termination of the Plan in 1995. The Plan
termination was approved by the Internal Revenue Service in 1996 and all Plan
benefits were paid to participants.

     On June 1, 1994, the Company implemented a defined contribution 401(k)
plan that covers all eligible employees. The Company matches employee
contributions up to certain amounts as defined in the plan. Total expense
related to this plan was $117,355, $100,588 and $100,993 in 1997, 1996 and
1995, respectively.

     The Company also has a postretirement benefit plan whereby the Company
pays postretirement health care benefits for certain of its retirees that have
met minimum age and service requirements. The Company adopted SFAS No. 106,
"Employer's Accounting for Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions", as of
January 1, 1995. The cumulative effect of this change in accounting for the
Company's liability for postretirement benefits of $422,555 was determined as
of January 1, 1995, and is reported separately in the 1995 statement of income,
net of a deferred income tax benefit of $144,000.


                                      


<PAGE>

                       ECB BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
     NOTES TO SUPPLEMENTAL CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)

(7) RETIREMENT PLANS AND OTHER POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS -- (Continued)

     Net periodic postretirement benefit cost for 1997, 1996 and 1995 includes
the following components:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       1997      1996      1995
                                                    --------- --------- ---------
<S>                                                 <C>       <C>       <C>
Service cost ......................................  $ 6,478   $ 4,832   $ 4,516
Interest cost .....................................   35,522    31,966    29,578
                                                     -------   -------   -------
Net periodic postretirement benefit cost ..........  $42,000   $36,798   $34,094
                                                     =======   =======   =======
</TABLE>

     The following table presents the plan's funded status at December 31, 1997
and 1996:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                  1997           1996
                                                             -------------- --------------
<S>                                                          <C>            <C>
Accumulated postretirement benefit obligation "APBO"):
 Retirees ..................................................   $ (304,323)    $ (235,252)
 Other fully eligible active employees .....................           --        (70,362)
 Other active participants .................................     (145,172)      (158,910)
                                                               ----------     ----------
   Total accumulated benefit obligation ....................     (449,495)      (464,524)
Unrecognized gain on changes in acturarial assumptions .....      (66,145)        (9,116)
                                                               ----------     ----------
Plan assets at fair value ..................................           --             --
                                                               ----------     ----------
Accrued postretirement benefit cost ........................   $ (515,640)    $ (473,640)
                                                               ==========     ==========
Weighted average discount rate in determining APBO .........          7.0%           7.0%
Annual health care cost trend rate .........................          9.0            9.0
Ultimate medical trend rate ................................          8.0            8.0
Medical trend rate period (in years) .......................            5              5
Effect of 1% increase in assumed health care cost on:
 Service and interest cost .................................         16.4%          17.3%
 APBO ......................................................         15.0           15.7
</TABLE>

(8) RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

     The Company has banking transactions in the ordinary course of business
with several of its directors and officers, and their associates. Such
transactions are on the same terms as those prevailing at the time for
comparable transactions with others. In the opinion of management, loans made
to directors, officers and their associates do not involve more than the normal
risk of collectibility or present any other unfavorable features (see note 3).

(9) DEPOSITS

     At December 31, 1997 and 1996, certificates of deposit of $100,000 or more
amounted to approximately $19,503,067 and $17,835,000, respectively.

     For the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995, interest expense on
certificates of deposit of $100,000 or more amounted to approximately
$1,057,000, $1,038,000 and $1,236,000, respectively.

     The Company made interest payments of $5,249,278, $4,903,660 and
$4,906,909 during the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995,
respectively.

     Time deposit accounts as of December 31, 1997, mature in the following
years and amounts: 1998 -- $77,864,727; 1999 -- $4,094,535; and 2000 --
$1,083,366.

                                      


<PAGE>

                       ECB BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
     NOTES TO SUPPLEMENTAL CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)

(10) LEASES
     The Company also has several noncancellable operating leases for three
branch locations. These leases generally contain renewal options for periods
ranging from three to five years and require the Company to pay all executory
costs such as maintenance and insurance. Rental expense for operating leases
during 1997 and 1996 was $69,758 and $25,000, respectively.

     Future minimum lease payments under noncancellable operating leases (with
initial or remaining lease terms in excess of one year) as of December 31, 1997
are as follows:

<TABLE>
<S>                                             <C>
      Year ending December 31,
       1998 ...................................  $ 65,797
       1999 ...................................    65,797
       2000 ...................................    61,147
       2001 ...................................    35,887
       2002 ...................................     9,879
       Thereafter .............................        --
                                                 --------
         Total minimum lease payments .........  $238,507
                                                 ========
</TABLE>

(11) RESERVE REQUIREMENTS

     The aggregate net reserve balances maintained under the requirements of
the Federal Reserve, which are noninterest bearing, were approximately
$2,032,000 at December 31, 1997.

(12) COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

     The Company has various financial instruments (outstanding commitments)
with off-balance sheet risk that are issued in the normal course of business to
meet the financing needs of its customers. These financial instruments included
commitments to extend credit of $16,316,000 and standby letters of credit of
$223,000, at December 31, 1997.

     The Company's exposure to credit loss for commitments to extend credit and
standby letters of credit is the contractual amount of those financial
instruments. The Company uses the same credit policies for making commitments
and issuing standby letters of credit as it does for on-balance sheet financial
instruments. Each customer's creditworthiness is evaluated on an individual
case-by-case basis. The amount and type of collateral, if deemed necessary by
management, is based upon this evaluation of creditworthiness. Collateral
obtained varies, but may include marketable securities, deposits, property,
plant and equipment, investment assets, real estate, inventories and accounts
receivable. Management does not anticipate any significant losses as a result
of these financial instruments and anticipates their funding from normal
operations.


(13) FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

     Fair value estimates are made by management at a specific point in time,
based on relevant information about the financial instrument and the market.
These estimates do not reflect any premium or discount that could result from
offering for sale at one time the Company's entire holdings of a particular
financial instrument nor are potential taxes and other expenses that would be
incurred in an actual sale considered. Fair value estimates are based on
judgments regarding future expected loss experience, current economic
conditions, risk characteristics of various financial instruments, and other
factors. These estimates are subjective in nature and involve uncertainties and
matters of significant judgment and therefore cannot be determined with
precision. Changes in assumptions and/or the methodology used could
significantly affect the estimates disclosed. Similarly, the fair values
disclosed could vary significantly from amounts realized in actual
transactions.

     Fair value estimates are based on existing on- and off-balance sheet
financial instruments without attempting to estimate the value of anticipated
future business and the value of assets and liabilities that are not considered
financial instruments.

                                      


<PAGE>

                       ECB BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
     NOTES TO SUPPLEMENTAL CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)

(13) FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS -- (Continued)

     The following table presents the carrying values and estimated fair values
of the Company's financial instruments at December 31, 1997 and 1996:



<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     1997                          1996
                                         ----------------------------- -----------------------------
                                            CARRYING       ESTIMATED      CARRYING       ESTIMATED
                                              VALUE       FAIR VALUE        VALUE       FAIR VALUE
                                         -------------- -------------- -------------- --------------
<S>                                      <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>
Financial assets:
 Non-interest bearing deposits and cash   $  8,185,000   $  8,185,000   $  7,862,000   $  7,862,000
 Federal funds sold ....................     4,425,000      4,425,000      6,550,000      6,550,000
 Investment securities .................    47,120,000     47,120,000     34,589,000     34,589,000
 FHLB common stock .....................       503,000        503,000             --             --
 Net loans .............................   118,549,000    119,094,000    110,256,000    109,408,000
Financial liabilities:
 Deposits ..............................   170,909,000    171,137,000    151,336,000    151,426,000
</TABLE>

     The estimated fair values of net loans and deposits at December 31 are
based on cash flows discounted at market interest rates. The carrying values of
other financial instruments, including various receivables and payables,
approximate fair value.


(14) REGULATORY MATTERS

     The Company is subject to various regulatory capital requirements
administered by the federal banking agencies. Failure to meet minimum capital
requirements can initiate certain mandatory, and possibly additional
discretionary, actions by regulators that, if undertaken, could have a direct
material effect on the Company's financial statements. Under capital adequacy
guidelines and the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action, the Bank
must meet specific capital guidelines that involve quantitative measures of the
Company's assets, liabilities, and certain off-balance sheet items as
calculated under regulatory accounting practices. The Company's capital amounts
and classification are also subject to qualitative judgments by the regulators
about components, risk weightings, and other factors.

     The Bank, as a North Carolina chartered bank, may pay dividends only out
of undivided profits as determined pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes
Section 53-87. However, regulatory authorities may limit payment of dividends
by any bank when it is determined that such a limitation is in the public
interest and is necessary to ensure the financial soundness of the Bank.

     Quantitative measures established by regulation to ensure capital adequacy
require the Bank to maintain minimum amounts and ratios (set forth in the table
below) of total and Tier I capital (as defined in the regulations) to
risk-weighted assets (as defined), and of Tier I capital to average assets (as
defined). Management believes, as of December 31, 1997, that the Bank meets all
capital adequacy requirments to which it is subject.

     As of December 31, 1997, the most recent notification from the Federal
Deposit Insurance Corporation ("FDIC") categorized the Bank as well-capitalized
under the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action. To be categorized
as well-capitalized, the Bank must maintain minimum total risk-based, Tier I
risk-based, and Tier I leverage ratios as set forth in the table. There are no
conditions or events since that notification that management believes have
changed the Bank's category.


                                     


<PAGE>

                       ECB BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
     NOTES TO SUPPLEMENTAL CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)

(14) REGULATORY MATTERS -- (Continued)

     The Bank's actual capital amounts, in thousands, and ratios are presented
in the following table:



<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                        TO BE WELL
                                                                                        CAPITALIZED
                                                                                       UNDER PROMPT
                                                                    FOR CAPITAL         CORRECTIVE
                                                ACTUAL             ADEQUACY PURPOSES   ACTION PROVISIONS
                                       ------------------------   ------------------- ------------------
                                         AMOUNT        RATIO           RATIO               RATIO
                                       ----------   ----------- ------------------- ------------------
<S>                                    <C>          <C>         <C>                 <C>
As of December 31, 1997:
 Total Capital
   (to Risk Weighted Assets) .........  $16,973         13.66%         =>8.0%             =>10.00%
 Tier I Capital
   (to Risk Weighted Assets) .........  $15,406         12.40%         =>4.0%              =>6.00%
 Tier I Capital
   (to Average Assets) ...............  $15,406          8.53%         =>4.0%              =>5.00%
As of December 31, 1996:
 Total Capital
   (to Risk Weighted Assets) .........  $15,577         13.75%         =>8.0%             =>10.00%
 Tier I Capital
   (to Risk Weighted Assets) .........  $14,149         12.49%         =>4.0%               =>6.0%
 Tier I Capital
   (to Average Assets) ...............  $14,149          8.53%         =>4.0%              =>5.00%
</TABLE>

     In May 1995, the Bank Insurance Fund ("BIF") of the FDIC reached its
designated ratio of reserves to insured deposits (i.e., 1.25%). For this
reason, the FDIC reduced the assessment rate applicable to BIF deposits in two
stages, so that, beginning in 1996, the deposit insurance premiums for 92% of
all BIF members in the highest capital and supervisory categories were set at
$1,500 per year, regardless of deposit size. Beginning in 1997, BIF members
were required to begin paying FICO-bond assessments in addition to the $1,500
annual assessment. The FICO bond assessment was $23,089 for the Company in
1997.


(15) SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

     On July 22, 1998, and pursuant to a charter amendment, the Bank effected a
three-for-one stock split of the Bank's common stock increasing the number of
shares of common stock from 593,418 to 1,780,254. Additionally, by way of the
same charter amendment, the Bank increased the post-split par value of the
common stock from $3.33 per share to $3.50 per share. In connection with the
stock split and increase in par value, the Bank increased the capital surplus
account in accordance with North Carolina General Statutes Section 53-88. All
references to the number of common shares and per share amounts in the financial
statements have been restated as appropriate to reflect the effect of the split,
for all periods presented. Additionally, common stock, capital surplus, and
retained earnings have been restated for all periods presented as appropriate to
reflect the stock split, the increase in par value, and the increase in the
capital surplus account.

     On July 22, 1998, the Bank was acquired by Bancorp which was newly-formed
by the Bank on March 4, 1998, for the purpose of becoming the Bank's parent
holding company. Each outstanding share of the Bank's common stock was exchanged
for one share of Bancorp's common stock with the Bank becoming a wholly-owned
subsidiary of Bancorp. Bancorp's primary purpose is to serve as the parent of
the Bank. This transaction was accounted for in a manner similar to a
pooling-of-interests whereby the historical book values of the Bank's accounts
were combined with Bancorp's accounts on the date of the merger.

                                     



<PAGE>


                                  SIGNATURES


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

                                          ECB BANCORP, INC.
                                          (Registrant)


Date: August 5, 1998                          By: /s/ Arthur H. Keeney, III
                                                  -----------------------------
                                                  Arthur H. Keeney, III
                                                  President and Chief Executive
                                                  Officer


<PAGE>






                                  EXHIBIT INDEX


                                                              PAGE NO. IN
                                                              SEQUENTIAL
EXHIBIT NO.         EXHIBIT DESCRIPTION                    NUMBERING SYSTEM
- -----------         -------------------                   ------------------
         2          Agreement and Plan or
                    Reorganization and Merger dated
                    March 10, 1998




                                                                       EXHIBIT 2

                 AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF REORGANIZATION AND MERGER
                                  BY AND AMONG
                             THE EAST CAROLINA BANK
                                       AND
                                ECB INTERIM BANK
                                       AND
                                ECB BANCORP, INC.


              THIS   AGREEMENT   AND  PLAN  OF   REORGANIZATION   AND   MERGER
(hereinafter  called  "Agreement")  entered  into as of the 10th day of March
, 1998,  by and among THE EAST  CAROLINA  BANK (the  "Bank") and ECB  BANCORP,
INC. ("Bancorp");

              WHEREAS, the Bank is a North Carolina banking corporation with its
principal office and place of business located in Engelhard, North Carolina;
and,

              WHEREAS, Bancorp is a North Carolina business corporation with its
principal office and place of business located in Engelhard, North Carolina,
which has been organized by the Bank at the direction of its Board of Directors
for the purpose of acquiring all of the outstanding shares of Bank Stock and
thereby becoming the Bank's parent bank holding company. Bancorp is authorized
by its Articles of Incorporation to issue 10,000,000 shares of common stock,
each of $3.50 par value (the "Bancorp Stock"), of which there are 100 shares
issued and outstanding (all of which are owned by the Bank); and,

              WHEREAS, ECB Interim Bank ("Interim Bank") is a proposed interim
North Carolina banking corporation to be organized as the wholly-owned
subsidiary of Bancorp for the purpose of merger with the Bank as described in
this Agreement, with its initial registered office to be located in Engelhard,
North Carolina. Upon its organization, Interim Bank will be authorized by its
Articles of Incorporation to issue 1,000 shares of common stock, each of $3.50
par value (the "Interim Bank Stock"), of which all shares to be issued and
outstanding will be owned by Bancorp; and, upon such organization, Interim Bank
shall execute and become a party to this Agreement; and,

              WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of the Bank has approved this
Agreement and will recommend to the Bank's shareholders approval of the plan and
transactions described herein, including, among other items, a merger to be
effected between the Bank and Interim Bank in the manner and upon the terms and
conditions hereinafter set forth; and,

              WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of Bancorp has approved this
Agreement and such merger and the other transactions described herein, including
the issuance of shares of Bancorp Stock to the Bank's shareholders to effectuate
said transactions, all as hereinafter set forth.

              NOW, THEREFORE, the Bank, Interim Bank and Bancorp, for and in
consideration of the premises and their mutual promises, and subject to the
terms and conditions hereinafter contained, hereby adopt and make this Agreement
and mutually agree as follows:

                            ARTICLE I. PLAN OF MERGER

        1.1 NAMES OF MERGING CORPORATIONS. The names of the banking corporations
proposed to be merged are THE EAST CAROLINA BANK (the "Bank") and ECB INTERIM
BANK ("Interim Bank").

        1.2 NATURE OF TRANSACTIONS. At the "Effective Time" (as defined in
Paragraph 1.8 below), Interim Bank shall be merged into and with the Bank (the
"Merger"), at which time the separate corporate existence of Interim Bank shall
cease while the corporate existence of the Bank, with all of its purposes,
objects, rights, privileges, powers and franchises, shall continue unaffected
and unimpaired by the Merger.

        1.3 SURVIVING CORPORATION. Upon consummation of the Merger, the Bank
shall be the surviving corporation and shall become and operate under the name
"The East Carolina Bank" as the wholly-owned banking subsidiary of Bancorp, and
will continue to conduct the business of a North Carolina banking corporation at
the then legally established branch and main offices of the Bank. The duration
of the corporate existence of the Bank, as the surviving corporation, shall be
perpetual and unlimited.

        1.4 ASSETS AND LIABILITIES OF THE BANK. At the Effective Time and by
reason of the Merger and in accordance with N.C. GEN. STAT. ss.ss. 53-13 and
53-17, the Bank shall acquire all of the assets of every kind and character of
Interim Bank (including, but not limited to, all real, personal or mixed
property, all debts due in whatever account, all other choses in action and all
and every other interest of or belonging to or due to Interim Bank), and shall
succeed to all the rights, privileges, immunities, powers, purposes and
franchises of a public or private nature (including all trust and fiduciary
properties, powers and rights) of Interim Bank, all of which shall pass or be
transferred to and vest in the Bank without any conveyance, assignment or
further act or deed; and, the Bank shall become responsible for all of the
liabilities, duties and obligations of every kind, nature and description
(including duties as trustee or fiduciary) of Interim Bank as of the Effective
Time.

        1.5   CONVERSION AND EXCHANGE OF STOCK.

              a. CONVERSION OF BANK STOCK. At the Effective Time, all rights of
the shareholders of the Bank with respect to the outstanding shares of the
Bank's common stock ("Bank Stock") shall cease to exist, and, as consideration
for and to effectuate the Merger, each such outstanding share of Bank Stock
shall be converted, without any action on the part of the Bank, Bancorp or the
holder thereof, into one (1) share of Bancorp Stock.

                 Certificates representing shares of Bank Stock outstanding
at the Effective Time (herein sometimes referred to as "Old Certificates") shall
thereafter, and without any action by the Bank, Bancorp or any holder thereof,
evidence only the right of the registered holder thereof to receive, and
following the Effective Time may be exchanged for, either (I) certificates for
the number of whole shares of Bancorp Stock to which such holders shall have
become entitled on the basis set forth above, plus cash for any fractional share
interests as provided herein, or (II) in the case of shareholders perfecting
dissenters' rights, cash as provided in Article 13 of Chapter 55 of the North
Carolina General Statutes.

              b. ISSUANCE OF SHARES BY BANCORP AND THE BANK. At the Effective
Time, Bancorp shall issue and deliver to the transfer agent of Bancorp Stock
(the "Transfer Agent"), one certificate representing the aggregate number of
whole shares of Bancorp Stock into which the outstanding shares of Bank Stock
have been converted as provided above; and, the Bank shall issue and deliver to
Bancorp one certificate representing the number of shares of Bank Stock as were
outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time and which, at such time,
were converted into shares of Bancorp Stock.

                 The Transfer Agent shall divide the certificate delivered to
it by Bancorp into certificates evidencing such numbers of shares of Bancorp
Stock as the respective shareholders of the Bank shall have become entitled, and
shall register such shares in the names of such shareholders and deliver said
certificates to the individual shareholders entitled thereto upon and in
exchange for the delivery to the Transfer Agent by said individual shareholders
of their Old Certificates.

              c. ANTIDILUTIVE ADJUSTMENTS. If, prior to the Effective Time,
Bancorp shall declare any dividend payable in shares of Bancorp Stock or shall
subdivide, split, reclassify or combine the presently outstanding shares of
Bancorp Stock, an appropriate and proportionate adjustment shall be made in the
number of shares of Bancorp Stock to be issued in exchange for each of the
shares of Bank Stock.

              d. TREATMENT OF FRACTIONAL SHARES. No scrip or certificates
representing fractional shares of Bancorp Stock will be issued and no right to
vote or to receive any dividend or other distribution shall attach to any
fraction of a share of Bancorp Stock resulting from the above exchange. In the
event the exchange of shares results in the creation of fractional shares, the
Transfer Agent shall sell the aggregate of such fractional shares at public
auction or by private sale (including a sale to Bancorp), or through a dealer or
by any other reasonable method, at its election, for the best available price,
and remit the net proceeds of such sale(s) to the Bank's shareholders in
accordance with their respective interests therein.

              e. SURRENDER OF CERTIFICATES. Subject to subparagraph 1.5.g.
below, no certificate for any shares of Bancorp Stock or cash for any fractional
share shall be delivered to any shareholder of the Bank unless and until such
shareholder shall have surrendered to the Transfer Agent the Old Certificate(s)
formerly representing his or her shares of Bank Stock. Further, until such Old
Certificate(s) are so surrendered, no dividend or other distribution payable to
holders of record of Bancorp Stock as of any date subsequent to the Effective
Time shall be delivered to the holder of such Old Certificate(s); provided,
that, upon surrender of such Old Certificate(s), the holder hereof shall be
entitled to receive the amount of any such dividends or distributions which have
accrued but remain unpaid with respect to the shares of Bancorp Stock
represented by such certificate(s).

              f. DISSENTERS. Any shareholder of the Bank perfecting dissenters'
rights with respect to the Merger in the manner required by the North Carolina
General Statutes shall be entitled to receive payment of the fair value of his
shares of Bank Stock in the manner and pursuant to the procedures provided
therein. Any shares of Bancorp Stock authorized to be issued pursuant to this
Agreement but not exchanged for shares of Bank Stock because of the dissent or
objection of a shareholder of the Bank and the receipt by him of cash in lieu of
shares, may be sold by the Transfer Agent at public auction or by private sale
(including a sale to Bancorp), or through a dealer or by any other reasonable
method, at its election, for the best available price, and the net proceeds of
any such sale shall be retained by Bancorp.

              g.    LOST   CERTIFICATES.   Shareholders   of  the  Bank  whose
certificates  evidencing  shares  of Bank  Stock  have been  lost,  destroyed,
stolen or are  otherwise  missing  shall be entitled  to receive  certificates
representing  the  shares  of  Bancorp  Stock to which  they are  entitled  in
accordance with and upon  compliance  with conditions  imposed by the Transfer
Agent or Bancorp pursuant to the provisions of N.C. GEN. STAT. ss.ss. 25-8-405
and 25-8-104.

              h. OUTSTANDING BANCORP AND INTERIM BANK STOCK. Following the
Effective Time, each of the shares of Bancorp Stock which are issued and
outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time shall be repurchased by
Bancorp from the Bank for the amount paid for such shares upon their original
issuance. At the Effective Time, each of the shares of Interim Bank Stock which
are issued and outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time shall,
without any action on the part of the Bank, Interim Bank or Bancorp, be
converted into and exchanged for a like number of shares of Bank Stock as the
surviving corporation, and, thereafter, the certificates formerly representing
such shares of Interim Bank Stock shall be canceled. Following the Effective
Time, the Bank may purchase and redeem such shares of Bank Stock from Bancorp
for the amount paid by Bancorp for the original shares of Interim Bank Stock
upon their issuance.

              i. OUTSTANDING STOCK OPTIONS. At the Effective Time, each then
currently outstanding option to purchase shares of Bank Stock shall be converted
into an option to purchase the same number of shares of Bancorp Stock on the
same terms and subject to the same conditions and restrictions as are provided
for in the Bank's Omnibus Stock Ownership and Long Term Incentive Plan and the
individual option agreement evidencing such option, and Bancorp shall be deemed
to have assumed the Bank's obligations under each such option agreement and such
Plan.

        1.6. ARTICLES, BY-LAWS AND MANAGEMENT. The Articles of Incorporation and
By-Laws of the Bank in effect at the Effective Time shall be the Articles of
Incorporation and By-Laws of the Bank as the surviving corporation. The officers
and directors of the Bank in office at the Effective Time of the Merger shall
continue to hold such offices until removed as provided by law or until the
election or appointment of their respective successors.
        1.7. OFFICES OF THE BANK. Subject to the approval of appropriate
regulatory authorities and following the Effective Time, the Bank shall continue
the operation of the present offices of the Bank.

        1.8. EFFECTIVE TIME. The Merger shall be effective on the date and at
the time (the "Effective Time") so specified in Articles of Merger which shall
include the Plan of Merger contained herein and which shall be duly executed by
the Bank as the surviving entity and, with the approval of the North Carolina
Commissioner of Banks, shall be presented to and filed by the North Carolina
Secretary of State in accordance with law.

                        ARTICLE II. ADDITIONAL AGREEMENTS

        2.1. ORGANIZATION OF INTERIM BANK. Following the date hereof, Bancorp
shall use its best efforts to cause Interim Bank to be organized as its
wholly-owned North Carolina "interim" bank subsidiary for the purpose of merger
with the Bank. Upon the completed organization of Interim Bank, Bancorp shall
take such action as Interim Bank's sole shareholder as is necessary to cause
this Agreement to be executed on behalf of Interim Bank, whereupon this
Agreement shall become enforceable as to Interim Bank. Prior to such execution
by Interim Bank, this Agreement shall be enforceable by and between the Bank and
Bancorp without regard to the lack of execution hereof by Interim Bank.

        2.2. "BLUE SKY" APPROVALS. As soon as practicable following the
execution of this Agreement, Bancorp shall take all such actions under
applicable state securities laws as reasonably shall be necessary to cause the
Bancorp Stock to be issued upon consummation of the Merger, at the time of the
issuance thereof, to be duly qualified or registered (unless exempt), to cause
all conditions to any exemptions from qualification or registration under
applicable state securities laws to have been satisfied, and to obtain any and
all required approvals or consents to the issuance thereof.

        2.3. APPROVAL OF SHAREHOLDERS. This Agreement shall be submitted for
approval, ratification and confirmation to the shareholders of the Bank at the
Bank's next annual meeting of shareholders to be duly called and held in
accordance with the Bank's By-Laws and all applicable provisions of law
following the date hereof. In accordance with the Securities Exchange Act of
1934 (the "Act") and applicable regulations promulgated thereunder by the
Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation ("FDIC"), the Bank will prepare and file
with the FDIC and, thereafter, will mail to its shareholders as soon as
practicable and in accordance with law a proxy statement (the "Proxy Statement")
for purposes of the solicitation of appointments of proxy for use at the
meeting. The Proxy Statement will contain such information as may be required by
the Act and applicable regulations thereunder and North Carolina law. The Proxy
Statement will indicate that the Board of Directors of the Bank considers the
Merger to be advisable and to the advantage of the Bank and its shareholders
and, accordingly, that it recommends ratification and approval of this Agreement
and the transactions contemplated hereby.

        2.4. REGULATORY APPROVALS. Promptly following the date of this
Agreement, the Bank and Bancorp each shall prepare, submit and file, or cause to
be prepared, submitted and filed, all applications for regulatory approvals and
actions as may be required of them, respectively, by applicable law and
regulations with respect to the transactions contemplated by this Agreement
(including applications to the North Carolina Commissioner of Banks, the FDIC,
the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (the "Federal Reserve") and
to state securities regulatory agencies). Each such party shall cooperate with
the others in the preparation of all of the foregoing applications and shall
promptly furnish upon request all documents, information, financial statements
or other material that may be required to complete such applications. Should the
appearance of any of the officers, directors, employees or counsel of any of the
parties hereto be requested by any other party or by any governmental agency at
any hearing in connection with any such application, such party shall promptly
use its best efforts to arrange for such appearance.

        2.5. CLOSING. A closing and consummation of the Merger (the "Closing")
shall be held on such date (the "Closing Date") and at such reasonable time
following the satisfaction of all conditions to the Merger and at such location
as shall be specified by Bancorp, but in no event later than thirty (30)
business days after all conditions of the Merger have been satisfied or
effectively waived.

        2.6. FURTHER ACTION. The Bank, Interim Bank and Bancorp each represents
and warrants to and covenants with each other such party that it or they will
use its or their best efforts in good faith to take or cause to be taken all
action required of it or them hereunder as promptly as practicable so as to
permit the consummation of the transactions contemplated herein at the earliest
possible date, and shall cooperate fully with each other such party in
delivering all documents or instruments reasonably necessary or useful to any
party hereto in carrying out such transactions.

        2.7. "AFFILIATES" OF THE BANK. The Bank shall, if requested by Bancorp
following the execution and delivery of this Agreement, promptly deliver to
Bancorp a list of persons deemed by it and its counsel to be "affiliates" of the
Bank as that term is defined in Rule 405 promulgated under the Securities Act of
1933 (which such list shall be subject to the review and concurrence of Bancorp
and its counsel), and, thereafter, the Bank agrees that, if requested by
Bancorp, each such affiliate (as well as such additional persons as shall be
deemed by Bancorp or its counsel to be affiliates of the Bank, including certain
persons, trusts, estates, corporations or other entitles related to persons
deemed to be affiliates of the Bank) shall execute and deliver to Bancorp a
written agreement ("Affiliates' Agreement") in form and content satisfactory to
Bancorp relating to restrictions on shares of Bancorp Stock to be received by
such affiliates pursuant to this Agreement. In such event, certificates for the
shares of Bancorp Stock issued to affiliates of the Bank shall bear a
restrictive legend (substantially in the form as shall be set forth in the
Affiliates' Agreement) with respect to the restricted nature of such shares.

                   ARTICLE III. CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO MERGER

        The obligations of the parties to this Agreement to consummate the
transactions contemplated herein shall be conditioned upon the satisfaction of
the following conditions precedent on or prior to the Closing Date.

        3.1. MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE. There shall not have occurred any material
adverse change in the financial condition, business, properties, assets, or
operation of the Bank or Bancorp, nor shall any event have occurred, which, with
the lapse of time or otherwise, may or could cause, create or result in any such
material adverse change.

        3.2. ADVERSE PROCEEDINGS, INJUNCTION, ETC. There shall not be any order,
decree or injunction of any court or agency of competent jurisdiction which
enjoins or prohibits any of the transactions described herein or any of the
parties hereto from consummating any such transaction, nor any pending or
threatened investigation of such transactions by the United States Department of
Justice, or any suit, action or proceeding instituted by any governmental,
administrative or regulatory agency, pending or threatened before any court or
governmental agency, seeking to restrain or prohibit the Bank, Interim Bank or
Bancorp from carrying out any of the terms or provisions of this Agreement.

        3.3. APPROVAL BY GOVERNMENTAL OR REGULATORY AUTHORITIES; NO
DISADVANTAGEOUS CONDITIONS. (I) The transactions contemplated hereunder shall
have been approved, to the extent required by law, by the Federal Reserve,
Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, the North Carolina Commissioner of Banks
and the State Banking Commission, and by all other governmental or regulatory
agencies or authorities having jurisdiction over such transactions; (II) no
governmental or regulatory agency or authority shall have withdrawn its approval
of such transactions or imposed any condition on such transactions or
conditioned its approval thereof, which condition is reasonably deemed by
Bancorp or the Bank to be disadvantageous or burdensome; (III) the fifteen-day
waiting period required following necessary approvals by the Federal Reserve and
FDIC for review of the transactions contemplated herein by the United States
Department of Justice shall have expired; and (IV) all other consents,
approvals, and permissions and the satisfaction of all of the requirements
prescribed by law necessary to the carrying out of the transactions contemplated
herein shall have been procured (including without limitation any required
approval of the Commissioner of Banks or the FDIC for the payment of cash to
shareholders of the Bank, if any, who perfect dissenters' rights as provided in
Article 13, Chapter 55 of the North Carolina General Statutes).

        3.4. APPROVAL BY BOARDS OF DIRECTORS AND SHAREHOLDERS. The Boards of
Directors of the Bank, Interim Bank and Bancorp shall have duly approved and
adopted this Agreement by appropriate resolutions, and the shareholders of the
Bank and of Interim Bank shall have duly approved, ratified and confirmed this
Agreement to the extent required by and in accordance with this Agreement and
North Carolina law.

        3.5. COMPLIANCE WITH AGREEMENTS. Unless waived by the other parties
hereto in accordance with Paragraph 5.1. below, the Bank and Bancorp each shall
have performed in all material respects their respective obligations, covenants
and agreements hereunder to be performed before or at Closing. Each of the
parties hereto, by and through their respective Presidents or Chief Executive
Officers, shall have executed and delivered to the other parties a certificate,
dated as of the Closing Date, with regard to the foregoing and such other
matters as may be reasonably requested.

        3.6. COMPLIANCE WITH "BLUE SKY" REQUIREMENTS. The Bancorp Stock to be
issued upon consummation of the Merger shall have been duly qualified or
registered (unless exempt) by Bancorp under applicable state securities laws,
all conditions to any exemptions from qualification or registration shall have
been satisfied, and any and all required approvals or consents to the issuance
of such Bancorp Stock shall have been obtained.

        3.7. FAVORABLE FEDERAL TAX ASPECTS OF MERGER. The parties hereto shall
have received favorable assurances which are satisfactory to the Bank and
Bancorp, either in the form of a favorable opinion of independent certified
public accountants or of legal counsel, to the effect that the Merger will be
treated for tax purposes under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, as
a tax-free reorganization, and that such related matters as are customarily
covered by such opinions shall be favorably treated for tax purposes.

        3.8. AGREEMENTS FROM AFFILIATES OF THE BANK. If requested by Bancorp,
Bancorp shall have received the written Affiliates' Agreements in form and
content satisfactory to Bancorp signed by all persons who are deemed by Bancorp
or its counsel to be "affiliates" of the Bank as provided in Paragraph 2.7.
above.

        3.9.  NO TERMINATION OR ABANDONMENT.  This Agreement shall not have
been terminated by any party hereto.

        3.10 ARTICLES OF MERGER; OTHER ACTIONS. Articles of Merger in the form
described in Paragraph 1.8. above shall have been duly executed by the Bank as
provided in that Paragraph.

                             ARTICLE IV. TERMINATION

        At any time prior to the Effective Time, and whether before or after
approval hereof by the shareholders of the Bank, this Agreement may be
terminated by the mutual consent of a majority of the members of each of the
Boards of Directors of the Bank and Bancorp; or, otherwise, by the majority vote
of the Board of Directors of either Bancorp or the Bank in the event that:

              (i) There shall have been any materially adverse change in the
business, operations, properties, assets or financial condition of the other
corporation since the date hereof; or, the other corporation shall have violated
any of its obligations, covenants or agreements contained herein in any material
respect;

            (ii) Any suit, action or proceeding shall have been instituted or
threatened in which it is sought to restrain or prohibit the consummation of the
transactions contemplated herein, or there shall be any other suit, action or
proceeding instituted or threatened or any liability or claim shall have been
asserted against the Bank, Interim Bank or Bancorp or any of their officers or
directors which shall reasonably be considered by either such corporation to be
materially burdensome in relation to the proposed Merger or materially adverse
in relation to the financial condition of either such corporation, and the same
has not been dismissed, terminated or resolved to the satisfaction of all
parties hereto within ninety (90) days of the institution or threat thereof;

           (iii) This Agreement and the transactions described herein are not
approved, ratified and affirmed by the shareholders of the Bank in the manner
required by law at the meeting held for that purpose as herein provided;

            (iv) The Merger shall not have become effective on or before July
31, 1998, unless such date is extended as evidenced by the written mutual
agreement of the parties hereto; or

             (v) Such Board of Directors shall determine that consummation of
the Merger for any reason is not in the best interests of the Bank or its
shareholders.

                       ARTICLE V. MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS

        5.1. WAIVER. Any term or condition of this Agreement may be waived
(except as to matters of regulatory approvals and approvals required by law),
either in whole or in part, at any time by the party which is, and whose
shareholders are, entitled to the benefits thereof; provided, however, that any
such waiver shall be effective only upon a determination by the waiving party
(through action of its Board of Directors) that such waiver would not adversely
affect the interests of the waiving party or its shareholders; and, provided
further, that no waiver of any term or condition of this Agreement by any party
shall be effective unless such waiver is in writing and signed by the waiving
party, or be construed to be a waiver of any succeeding breach of the same term
or condition. No failure or delay of any party to exercise any power, or to
insist upon a strict compliance by any other party of any obligation, and no
custom or practice at variance with any terms hereof, shall constitute a waiver
of the right of any party to demand a full and complete compliance with such
terms.

        5.2. AMENDMENT. This Agreement may be amended, modified or supplemented
at any time or from time to time prior to the Effective Time, and either before
or after its approval by the shareholders of the Bank and Interim Bank, by an
agreement in writing approved by a majority of the Board of Directors of Bancorp
and executed in the same manner as this Agreement; provided, however, that
except as authorized herein, no change in the exchange ratio specified herein
may be made following shareholder ratification except with such shareholder
approval of that change.

        5.3. FURTHER ASSURANCE. The Bank, Interim Bank and Bancorp each agree to
furnish to the others such further assurances with respect to the matters
contemplated herein and their respective agreements, covenants, representations
and warranties contained herein, including the opinion of legal counsel, as such
other party may reasonably request.

        5.4. HEADINGS AND CAPTIONS. Headings and captions of the sections and
paragraphs of this Agreement have been inserted for convenience of reference
only and do not constitute a part hereof.

        5.5. ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This Agreement contains the entire agreement of
the Bank, Interim Bank and Bancorp with respect to the transactions contemplated
herein and supersedes any and all other oral or written agreement(s) heretofore
made, and there are no representations or inducements by or to any party hereto
or other provisions other than those contained herein.

        5.6. SEVERABILITY OF PROVISIONS. The invalidity or unenforceability of
any term, phrase, clause, paragraph, restriction, covenant, agreement or other
provision hereof shall in no way affect the validity or enforceability of any
other provision or part hereof.

        5.7. COUNTERPARTS. Any number of counterparts of this Agreement may be
signed and delivered, each of which shall be considered an original and which
together shall constitute one agreement.

        5.8.  GOVERNING LAW.  This Agreement is made in and shall be
construed and enforced in accordance with the laws of North Carolina.

              IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Bank, Interim Bank and Bancorp each has
caused this Agreement to be executed in its name by its duly authorized officers
as of the date first above written.


                                      THE EAST CAROLINA BANK


                                      By:   /s/ Arthur H. Keeney, III
                                            -------------------------
                                                Arthur H. Keeney, III
                                                President
ATTEST:

/s/ Jo Ellen Cutrell
- --------------------
    Jo Ellen Cutrell
    Secretary
                                      ECB BANCORP, INC.


                                      By:   /s/ Arthur H. Keeney, III
                                            -------------------------
                                                Arthur H. Keeney, III
                                                President
ATTEST:

/s/ Jo Ellen Cutrell
- --------------------
    Jo Ellen Cutrell
    Secretary


              IN WITNESS WHEREOF, ECB Interim Bank has caused this Agreement to
be executed in its name by its duly authorized officers for the purpose of
joining as a party hereto and, by such execution, it hereby adopts and agrees to
each of the terms and conditions herein as its own, all as of the date first
above written.

                                      ECB INTERIM BANK


                                      By:   /s/ Arthur H. Keeney, III
                                            -------------------------
                                                Arthur H. Keeney, III
                                                President
ATTEST:

/s/ Jo Ellen Cutrell
- --------------------
    Jo Ellen Cutrell
    Secretary




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