BANNER CORP (BANR) Business

Item 1 – Business

General

Banner is a bank holding company incorporated in the State of Washington which wholly owns one subsidiary bank, Banner Bank. The Bank is a Washington-chartered commercial bank that conducts business from its main office in Walla Walla, Washington and, as of December 31, 2025, it had 135 branch offices and 15 loan production offices located in Washington, Oregon, California, Idaho, Utah and Nevada. Banner is subject to regulation by the Federal Reserve. The Bank is subject to regulation by the Washington State Department of Financial Institutions-Division of Banks (the DFI) and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (the FDIC). As of December 31, 2025, we had total consolidated assets of $16.35 billion, net loans of $11.56 billion, total deposits of $13.74 billion, and total shareholders’ equity of $1.95 billion. Banner’s common stock is traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the ticker symbol “BANR.”

The Bank is a regional bank that offers a wide variety of commercial banking services and financial products to individuals, businesses and public sector entities in its primary market areas.  The Bank’s primary business is that of traditional banking institutions — accepting deposits and originating loans in locations surrounding our offices in Washington, Oregon, California, Idaho, Utah and Nevada. The Bank is also an active participant in secondary loan markets, engaging in mortgage banking operations through the origination and sale of one- to four-family residential loans. Lending activities include commercial business and commercial real estate loans, agriculture business loans, construction, land and land development loans, one- to four-family residential loans, multifamily real estate loans, U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) loans and consumer loans.

We continue to invest in our delivery platform across the franchise with a primary emphasis on strengthening our presence in the higher growth regions of our markets. In addition, we continue to improve the efficiency of our branch delivery channel by making investments in streamlining the origination of new loan and deposit accounts while simultaneously enhancing our digital service and account origination capabilities. During the past few years, client adoption of mobile and digital banking has accelerated while physical branch transaction volume has declined. Banner anticipates this shift in client service delivery channel preference will continue and we strive to provide digital tools that support our client’s banking needs.

We also focus on expanding our product offerings and investing in marketing campaigns designed to significantly increase brand awareness for the Bank. These marketing investments are a significant element in our strategy to grow client relationships and increase our market presence, while allowing us to better serve existing and future clients. We believe our branch network, broad product line and heightened brand awareness have created a franchise that is well positioned for growth and successful execution of our super community bank model. Our overall strategy is focused on delivering clients—including middle market and small businesses, business owners, their families and employees—a compelling value proposition by providing the financial sophistication and breadth of products of a regional bank while retaining the appeal, responsiveness, and superior service level of a community bank.

The Company’s successful execution of its super community bank model and strategic initiatives has delivered solid core operating results and profitability over the last several years. The Company’s longer term strategic initiatives continue to focus on originating high quality assets and client acquisition, which we believe will continue to generate strong revenue while maintaining the Company’s moderate risk profile. In addition, our strategic initiatives relate to efficiency, talent retention and technology improvements.

Our operating results depend primarily on our net interest income, which is the difference between interest income on interest-earning assets, consisting primarily of loans and investment securities — and interest expense on interest-bearing liabilities — composed primarily of client deposits and supplemented by Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines (FHLB) advances, other borrowings, and junior subordinated debentures. Net interest income is a function of our interest rate spread, which is the difference between the yield earned on interest-earning assets and the average rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities, as well as a function of the average balances of interest-earning assets, interest-bearing liabilities and non-interest-bearing funding sources including non-interest-bearing deposits.

Our net income is also affected by the level of our non-interest income, including deposit fees and other service charges, results of mortgage banking operations—which includes gains and losses on the sale of loans and servicing fees—gains and losses on the sale of securities, as well as our non-interest expenses and provisions for credit losses and income taxes.

Lending Activities

General: All of our lending activities are conducted through the Bank and its subsidiary, Community Financial Corporation, a residential construction lender located in Portland, Oregon. We offer a wide range of loan products to meet the demands of our clients and our loan portfolio is very diversified by product type, borrower and geographic location within our market area. We originate loans for our portfolio and for sale in the secondary market. Management’s strategy has been to maintain a well-diversified portfolio with a significant percentage of assets in the loan portfolio having more frequent interest rate repricing terms or shorter maturities than traditional long-term fixed-rate mortgage loans. As part of this effort, we offer a variety of floating or adjustable interest rate products that correlate more closely with our cost of interest-bearing funds, particularly loans for commercial business and real estate, agricultural business, and construction and development purposes. In response to client demand, we also originate fixed-rate loans, including fixed interest rate mortgage loans with terms of up to 30 years. The relative amount of fixed-rate loans and adjustable-rate loans that can be originated at any time is largely determined by the demand for each in a competitive environment.

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Our lending activities are primarily directed toward the origination of commercial real estate and business loans. Commercial real estate loans include owner-occupied, investment properties and multifamily real estate. We also originate one- to four-family residential and construction, land and land development loans, of which a significant component are one- to four-family residential construction loans. Throughout 2025, sales of completed homes continued to outpace new originations due to constrained housing inventories. Our commercial business lending is directed toward meeting the credit and related deposit and treasury management needs of various small- to medium-sized business and agribusiness borrowers operating in our primary market areas. To a lesser extent, our commercial business lending has also included participation in certain national syndicated loans. We typically sell most of the one- to four-family residential loans we originate into the secondary market, with net gains on sales and loan servicing fees recognized as mortgage banking revenue. However, demand for these loans slowed in 2024 and 2025 due to elevated interest rates, which reduced refinance activity and overall origination volumes. At December 31, 2025, our net loan portfolio totaled $11.72 billion compared to $11.35 billion at December 31, 2024.

One- to Four-Family Residential Real Estate Lending:  We originate loans secured by first mortgages on one- to four-family residences in the markets we serve.  Through our mortgage banking activities, we sell one- to four-family residential loans on either a servicing-retained or servicing-released basis. We have generally sold a significant portion of our conventional one- to four-family residential loan originations and nearly all of our government insured loans in the secondary market. As of December 31, 2025, 13% of the loan portfolio, $1.57 billion, consisted of permanent one- to four-family residences.

We offer fixed- and adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) at rates and terms competitive with market conditions, primarily with the intent of selling these loans into the secondary market. Fixed-rate loans generally are offered on a fully amortizing basis for terms ranging from 10 to 30 years at interest rates and fees that reflect current secondary market pricing. Most ARM products offered by us adjust annually after an initial period ranging from one to five years, subject to a limitation on the annual adjustment and a lifetime rate cap. For a small portion of the portfolio, where the initial period exceeds one year, the first interest rate change may exceed the annual limitation on subsequent adjustments. Our ARM products most frequently adjust based upon the average yield on Treasury securities adjusted to a constant maturity of one year or other indices plus a margin or spread above the index.  ARM loans held in our portfolio may allow for interest-only payments for an initial period, up to five years, but do not provide for negative amortization of principal and carry no prepayment restrictions. The retention of ARM loans in our loan portfolio can help reduce our exposure to changes in interest rates.

Our residential loans are generally underwritten and documented in accordance with the guidelines established by the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac or FHLMC) and the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae or FNMA). Government insured loans are underwritten and documented in accordance with the guidelines established by the Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Department of Veterans Affairs. In the loan approval process, we assess the borrower’s ability to repay the loan, the adequacy of the proposed security and the employment stability and creditworthiness of the borrower. For ARM loans, our standard practice provides for underwriting based upon fully indexed interest rates and payments. Generally, we will lend up to 95% of the lesser of the appraised value or purchase price of the property on conventional loans, although higher loan-to-value ratios are available on secondary market programs. We require private mortgage insurance on conventional residential loans with a loan-to-value ratio exceeding 80% at origination.

Construction, Land and Land Development Lending: Historically, we have invested a significant portion of our loan portfolio in residential construction and land loans to professional home builders and developers. Our land loans are typically on improved or entitled land, versus raw land. On a more limited basis, we also make land and land development loans to developers, builders and individuals to finance the acquisition and/or development of improved lots or unimproved land. In making land loans, we follow more conservative underwriting policies than those for construction loans but maintain similar disbursement and monitoring procedures. The initial term on land loans is typically one to three years with interest-only payments, payable monthly, with provisions for principal reduction as lots are sold and released.

We also make construction loans to qualified owner occupants, which upon completion of the construction phase convert to long-term amortizing one- to four-family residential loans that are eligible for sale in the secondary market. We regularly monitor our construction and land loan portfolios and the economic conditions and housing inventory in each of our markets and increase or decrease this type of lending as we observe market conditions change. Our residential construction, land and land development lending has been increasing recently in select markets and has made a meaningful contribution to our net interest income and profitability. We also originate construction loans for commercial and multifamily real estate.

Construction and land lending affords us the opportunity to achieve higher interest rates and fees with shorter terms to maturity than are generally available on other types of lending. Construction and land lending, however, involves a higher degree of risk than other lending opportunities. We attempt to address these risks by adhering to strict underwriting policies, disbursement procedures and monitoring practices, and by maintaining portfolio diversification with respect to sub-markets, price ranges and borrowers.

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Commercial and Multifamily Real Estate Lending: We originate loans secured by multifamily and commercial real estate, including loans for construction of multifamily and commercial real estate projects. Commercial real estate loans are made for both owner-occupied and investor-owned properties. Multifamily and commercial real estate lending affords us an opportunity to receive interest at rates higher than those generally available from one- to four-family residential lending. In originating multifamily and commercial real estate loans, we consider the location, marketability and overall attractiveness of the properties. Our underwriting guidelines for multifamily and commercial real estate loans require an appraisal from a qualified independent appraiser, as well as an environmental risk assessment and an economic analysis of each property with regard to annual revenue and expenses, debt service coverage and fair value to determine the maximum loan amount. In the approval process, we assess the borrower’s willingness and ability to manage the property and repay the loan and the adequacy of the collateral in relation to the loan amount. Our multifamily real estate portfolio, totaling $850.8 million as of December 31, 2025, is diversified and consists mostly of affordable housing projects. Our commercial real estate portfolio, totaling $4.05 billion as of December 31, 2025, is diversified, with exposure spread across numerous loans and multiple geographic markets.

Multifamily and commercial real estate loans originated by us are both fixed- and adjustable-rate loans with intermediate terms of generally five to 10 years. A significant portion of our multifamily and commercial real estate loans are linked to various FHLB advance rates, certain prime rates, US Treasury rates, or other market rate indices. Rates on these adjustable-rate loans generally adjust with a frequency of one to five years after an initial fixed-rate period ranging from one to 10 years. Our commercial real estate portfolio consists of loans on a variety of property types with no large concentrations by property type, location or borrower. At December 31, 2025, the average size of our commercial real estate loans was $1.3 million, with the largest commercial real estate loan, in terms of an outstanding balance, totaling $28.4 million.

Commercial Business Lending: We are active in small- to medium-sized business lending. Our commercial bankers are focused on local markets and devote a great deal of effort to developing client relationships and providing these types of borrowers with a full array of products and services delivered in a thorough and responsive manner. Our experienced commercial bankers and senior credit staff help us meet our commitment to small business lending while also focusing on corporate lending opportunities for borrowers with credit needs, generally in a $3 million to $25 million range. In addition to providing earning assets, commercial business lending has helped us increase our deposit base. In recent years, our commercial business lending has included modest participation in certain national syndicated loans, including shared national credits. We also originate smaller balance business loans, principally through our retail branch network, using our QuickStep business loan program, which is closely aligned with our consumer lending operations and relies on centralized underwriting procedures. QuickStep business loans are available up to $1.0 million. Business lines of credit are available up to $500,000 and owner-occupied real estate loans are available up to $2.0 million.

Commercial business loans may entail greater risk than other types of loans. Conventional commercial business loans generally provide higher yields or related revenue opportunities than many other types of loans but also require more administrative and management attention. Loan terms, including the fixed or adjustable interest rate, the loan maturity and the collateral considerations, vary significantly and are negotiated on an individual loan basis.

We underwrite our conventional commercial business loans on the basis of the borrower’s cash flow and ability to service the debt from earnings rather than on the basis of the underlying collateral value. We seek to structure these loans so that they have more than one source of repayment. The borrower is required to provide us with sufficient information to allow us to make a prudent lending determination.  In most instances, this information consists of at least three years of financial statements and tax returns, a statement of projected cash flows, current financial information on any guarantor and information about the collateral. Loans to closely held businesses typically require personal guarantees by the principals. Our commercial business loan portfolio is geographically dispersed across the market areas serviced by our branch network and there are no significant concentrations by industry or product.

Our commercial business loans may be structured as term loans or as lines of credit. Commercial business term loans are generally made to finance the purchase of fixed assets and have maturities of five years or less. Commercial business lines of credit are typically made for the purpose of providing working capital and are usually approved with a term of one year. Adjustable- or floating-rate loans are primarily tied to prime and Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) indices.

Agricultural Lending:  Agriculture is a major industry in several of our markets. We make agricultural loans to borrowers with a strong capital base, sufficient management depth, proven ability to operate through agricultural cycles, reliable cash flows and adequate financial reporting.  Payments on agricultural loans depend, to a large degree, on the results of operations of the related farm entity.  Repayment is also subject to other economic and weather conditions and market prices for agricultural products, which can be highly volatile.

Agricultural operating loans generally are made as a percentage of the borrower’s anticipated income to support budgeted operating expenses.  These loans are secured by a blanket lien on all crops, livestock, equipment, accounts and products and proceeds thereof.  In the case of crops, consideration is given to projected yields and prices from each commodity.  The interest rate is normally floating, based on the prime rate or another index, plus a negotiated margin.  Because these loans are made to finance a farm’s or ranch’s annual operations, they are usually written on a one-year review and renewable basis.  Renewal is dependent upon the prior year’s performance, the forthcoming year’s projections and the overall financial strength of the borrower.  We carefully monitor these loans and related variance reports on income and expenses compared to budget estimates.  To meet the seasonal operating needs of a farm, borrowers may qualify for single payment notes, revolving lines of credit and/or non-revolving lines of credit.

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In underwriting agricultural operating loans, we consider the cash flow of the borrower based upon the expected operating results and the value of collateral used to secure the loans.  Collateral generally consists of cash crops produced by the farm, such as milk, grains, fruit, grass seed, peas, sugar beets, mint, walnuts, onions, potatoes, corn and alfalfa, or livestock.  In addition to considering cash flow and obtaining a blanket security interest in the farm’s cash crop, we may also collateralize an operating loan with the farm’s operating equipment, breeding stock, real estate and federal agricultural program payments to the borrower.

We also originate loans to finance the purchase of farm equipment with terms of up to seven years.  On occasion, we also originate agricultural real estate loans secured primarily by first liens on farmland and improvements thereon located in our market areas, although generally only to service the needs of our existing clients.  Loans are generally written in amounts ranging from 50% to 75% of the tax assessed or appraised value of the property for terms of five to 20 years.  These loans typically have interest rates that adjust at least every five years based upon a Treasury index or FHLB advance rate plus a negotiated margin.  Fixed-rate loans are granted on terms usually not to exceed five years.  In originating agricultural real estate loans, we consider the debt service coverage of the borrower’s cash flow, the appraised value of the underlying property, the experience and knowledge of the borrower, the borrower’s past performance with us and the market area.  These loans normally are not made to start-up businesses and are reserved for existing clients with substantial equity and a proven history.

Among the more common risks to agricultural lending can be weather conditions and disease.  These risks may be mitigated through multi-peril crop insurance.  Commodity prices also present a risk, which may be mitigated using set price contracts.  Normally, required beginning and projected operating margins provide for reasonable reserves to offset unexpected yield and price deficiencies.  In addition to these risks, we also consider management succession, life insurance and business continuation plans when evaluating agricultural loans.

Consumer and Other Lending:  We originate a variety of consumer loans, including home equity lines of credit; automobile, boat and recreational vehicle loans; and loans secured by deposit accounts.  While consumer lending has traditionally been a small part of our business, with loans made primarily to accommodate our existing client base, it has received consistent emphasis in recent years.  Similar to other consumer loan programs, we also offer our credit card program mostly to our existing client base to add to the depth of our client relationships.  In addition to earning balances, credit card accounts produce non-interest revenues through interchange fees and other activity-based revenues. Our underwriting of consumer loans is focused on the borrower’s credit history and ability to repay the debt as evidenced by documented sources of income.

Loan Solicitation and Processing:  We originate real estate loans in our market areas by direct solicitation of builders, developers, depositors, walk-in clients, real estate brokers and visitors to our website.  One- to four-family residential loan applications are taken by our mortgage loan officers or through our website and are processed in branch or regional locations. In addition, we have specialized loan origination units focused on construction and land development, commercial real estate and multifamily real estate loans. Most underwriting and loan administration functions for our real estate loans are performed by loan personnel at central locations.

In addition to commercial real estate loans, our commercial bankers solicit commercial and agricultural business loans through call programs focused on local businesses and farmers.  While commercial bankers are delegated reasonable lending authority based upon their qualifications, credit decisions on significant commercial and agricultural loans are made by senior credit officers based on their lending authority or, if required, escalated for further approval, including by Management’s Senior Loan Committee.

We originate consumer loans and small business (including QuickStep) commercial business loans through various marketing efforts directed primarily toward our existing deposit and loan clients.  Consumer and small business commercial business loan applications are primarily underwritten and documented by centralized administrative personnel.

Loan Originations, Sales and Purchases

While we originate a variety of loans, our ability to originate each type of loan is dependent upon the relative client demand and competition in each market we serve.  For the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024, we originated loans, net of repayments, including our participation in syndicated loans and loans held for sale of $852.6 million and $984.7 million, respectively.

We sell many of our newly originated one- to four-family residential loans to secondary market purchasers as part of our interest rate risk management strategy. Sales of loans generally are beneficial to us because these sales may generate income at the time of sale, provide funds for additional lending and other investments, increase liquidity or reduce interest rate risk. We sell one- to four-family residential loans on both a servicing-retained and a servicing-released basis.  All loans are sold without recourse but subject to the standard representations and warranties contained in the loan sale agreement. The decision to hold or sell loans is based on asset liability management goals, strategies and policies and on market conditions.  In addition, we generally sell the guaranteed portion of SBA loans.

We periodically purchase whole loans, loan participation interests, and participate in syndications, including shared national credits. These purchases are made during periods of reduced loan demand in our primary market area and to support our Community Reinvestment Act lending activities.  Any such purchases or loan participations are generally made on terms consistent with our underwriting standards; however, the loans may be located outside of our normal lending area.

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Loan Servicing

We receive fees from a variety of institutional owners in return for performing the traditional services of collecting individual payments and managing portfolios of sold loans.  At December 31, 2025, we were servicing $3.14 billion of loans for others.  Loan servicing includes processing payments, accounting for loan funds and collecting and paying real estate taxes, hazard insurance and other loan-related items such as private mortgage insurance.  In addition to earning fee income, we retain certain amounts in escrow for the benefit of the lender for which we incur no interest expense but are able to invest the funds into earning assets.

Mortgage and SBA Servicing Rights:  We record mortgage servicing rights (MSRs) with respect to loans we originate and sell in the secondary market on a servicing-retained basis and SBA servicing rights with respect to the guaranteed portion of SBA loans we sell.  The value of MSRs is capitalized and amortized in proportion to, and over the period of, the estimated future net servicing income.  Management periodically evaluates the estimates and assumptions used to determine the carrying values of MSRs and the amortization of MSRs. MSRs generally are adversely affected by higher levels of current or anticipated prepayments resulting from decreasing interest rates.  MSRs are evaluated for impairment based upon the fair value of the rights as compared to amortized cost. Impairment is recognized through a valuation allowance, to the extent that fair value is less than the capitalized carrying amount. SBA servicing rights are initially recorded and carried at fair value. Any change in the fair value of SBA servicing rights is recorded in non-interest income.

Asset Quality

Classified Assets:  State and federal regulations require that the Bank review and classify its problem assets on a regular basis.  In addition, in connection with examinations of insured institutions, state and federal examiners have authority to identify problem assets and, if appropriate, require them to be classified.  Historically, we have not had any meaningful differences of opinion with the examiners with respect to asset classification.  The Bank’s Credit Policy Division reviews detailed information with respect to the composition and performance of the loan portfolios, including information on risk concentrations, delinquencies and classified assets for the Bank.  The Credit Policy Division approves all recommendations for new classified loans. In the case of smaller-balance homogeneous loans including residential real estate and consumer loans, the Credit Policy Division has approved policies governing classifications, or changes in classifications, and develops and monitors action plans to resolve the problems associated with the assets.  The Credit Policy Division also approves recommendations for establishing the appropriate level of the allowance for credit losses.  Significant problem loans are transferred to the Bank’s Special Assets Department for resolution or collection activities.  We review asset quality at least quarterly.

Allowance for Credit Losses:  In originating loans, we recognize that losses will be experienced and that the risk of loss will vary with, among other things, the type of loan being made, the creditworthiness of the borrower over the term of the loan, general economic conditions and, in the case of a secured loan, the quality of the security for the loan.  The allowance for credit losses is maintained at a level sufficient to provide for expected credit losses over the life of the loan based on evaluating specific risk characteristics in the current loan portfolio and forecasted economic conditions, as well as historical credit loss experience. We increase our allowance for credit losses by charging a provision for credit losses against income.

Real Estate Owned:  Real estate owned (REO) is property acquired by foreclosure or receiving a deed in-lieu-of foreclosure and is recorded at the estimated fair value of the property, less expected selling costs.  Development and improvement costs relating to the property are capitalized to the extent they add value to the property.  The carrying value of the property is periodically evaluated by Management and, if necessary, allowances are established to reduce the carrying value to net realizable value.  Gains or losses at the time the property is sold are credited or charged to operations in the period in which they are realized.  The amounts we will ultimately recover from REO may differ substantially from the carrying value of the assets because of market factors beyond our control or because of changes in our strategies for recovering the investment.

Investment Activities

Investment Securities: Under Washington state law and FDIC regulation, banks are permitted to invest in various types of marketable securities.  Authorized securities include but are not limited to Treasury obligations, securities of various federal agencies (including government-sponsored enterprises), mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities, certain certificates of deposit of insured banks and savings institutions, bankers’ acceptances, repurchase agreements, federal funds, commercial paper, corporate debt and equity securities and obligations of states and their political subdivisions.  Our investment policies are designed to provide and maintain adequate liquidity and to generate favorable rates of return without incurring undue interest rate risk or credit risk.  Our policies generally limit investments to U.S. Government and agency (including government-sponsored entities) securities, municipal bonds, certificates of deposit, corporate debt obligations and mortgage-backed securities.  Investment in mortgage-backed securities may include those issued or guaranteed by Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, Government National Mortgage Association (Ginnie Mae or GNMA) and investment grade privately issued mortgage-backed securities, and collateralized mortgage obligations (CMOs).  All of our investment securities, including those with a credit rating, are subject to market risk in so far as a change in market rates of interest or other conditions may cause a change in an investment’s earnings performance and/or market value.

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Derivatives: We are party to various derivative instruments that are used for asset and liability management and client financing needs. Derivative instruments are contracts between two or more parties that have a notional amount and an underlying variable, require no net investment and allow for the net settlement of positions. The notional amount serves as the basis for the payment provision of the contract and takes the form of units, such as shares or dollars. The underlying variable represents a specified interest rate, index, or other component. The interaction between the notional amount and the underlying variable determines the number of units to be exchanged between the parties and influences the market value of the derivative contract.

Our predominant derivative and hedging activities involve interest rate swaps related to certain term loans, interest rate lock commitments to borrowers, and forward sales contracts associated with mortgage banking activities. Generally, these instruments help us manage exposure to market risk and meet client financing needs. Market risk represents the possibility that economic value or net interest income will be adversely affected by fluctuations in external factors such as market-driven interest rates and prices or other economic factors.

Deposit Activities and Other Sources of Funds

General:  Deposits, FHLB advances (or other borrowings) and loan repayments are our major sources of funds for lending and other investment purposes.  Scheduled loan repayments are a relatively stable source of funds, while deposit inflows and outflows and loan prepayments are influenced by general economic, interest rate and money market conditions and may vary significantly.  Borrowings may be used on a short-term basis to compensate for reductions in the availability of funds from other sources.  Borrowings may also be used on a longer-term basis to fund loans and investments, and to manage interest rate risk.

We compete for deposits with a wide range of financial institutions and other intermediaries. Competition is particularly strong for transaction and savings deposits, with commercial banks, credit unions, and nonbank providers, such as securities brokerage firms, mutual funds, and large corporations with nationwide office networks, actively competing for market share. Our efforts, including acquisitions, branch relocations and renovations, and targeted marketing campaigns, are primarily aimed at expanding deposit client relationships and balances.  In addition, our electronic and digital banking services, such as debit card and ATM programs, online banking, remote deposit capture, and mobile banking, are designed to enhance client engagement, support deposit growth, and generate fee income. Core deposits, which consist of non-interest-bearing checking accounts and interest-bearing transaction and savings accounts, are a fundamental component of our business strategy. At December 31, 2025 and 2024, core deposits represented 89% of total deposits.

Deposit Accounts:  We generally attract deposits from within our primary market areas by offering a broad selection of deposit instruments, including non-interest-bearing checking accounts, interest-bearing checking accounts, money market deposit accounts, regular savings accounts, certificates of deposit, treasury management services and retirement savings plans.  Deposit account terms vary according to the minimum balance required, the time periods the funds must remain on deposit and the interest rate, among other factors.  In determining the terms of deposit accounts, we consider current market interest rates, profitability to us, matching deposit and loan products and client preferences and concerns.

Borrowings:  While deposits are the primary source of funds for our lending and investment activities and for general business purposes, we also use borrowings to supplement our supply of lendable funds, to meet deposit withdrawal requirements and to more efficiently leverage our capital position.  The FHLB serves as our primary borrowing source. The FHLB provides credit for member financial institutions such as the Bank.  As a member, the Bank is required to own capital stock in the FHLB and is authorized to apply for advances on the security of that stock and certain of its mortgage loans and securities, provided that certain credit worthiness standards have been met.  Limitations on the amount of advances are based on the financial condition of the member institution, the adequacy of collateral pledged to secure the credit, and FHLB stock ownership requirements.  The Federal Reserve Bank serves as an additional source of borrowing capacity.  The Federal Reserve Bank provides credit based upon acceptable loan collateral, which includes certain loan types not eligible for pledging to the FHLB.

In addition, the Bank has federal funds line of credit agreements with other financial institutions. Availability of lines is subject to federal funds balances available for loan and continued borrower eligibility. These lines are intended to support short-term liquidity needs and the agreements may restrict consecutive day usage.

We issue retail repurchase agreements, generally due within 90 days, as an additional source of funds, primarily in connection with treasury management services provided to our larger deposit clients.  We also may borrow funds using secured wholesale repurchase agreements with securities brokers.

Between 2002 and 2007, we issued junior subordinated debentures in conjunction with the sale of trust preferred securities (TPS). These securities were issued through special purpose business trusts established by Banner and were privately offered to pooled investment vehicles. The proceeds from the junior subordinated debentures issuances were primarily contributed to the Bank as additional paid-in capital. In addition, Banner assumed additional junior subordinated debentures through acquisitions.

In 2020, we issued 5.0% fixed-to-floating rate subordinated notes, which became callable in 2025 and had a stated maturity date in 2030. The balance of our outstanding subordinated notes was repaid during the second quarter of 2025.

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Personnel

Human Capital

At Banner, our employees are a critical component of our success. Because our business depends on our ability to retain, develop and attract top talent, we seek to provide a work environment that offers professional development opportunities, career growth, competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits. Employing the best talent we can—including individuals who possess a broad range of professional experiences and skills—better positions us to anticipate and meet the needs of our business and our clients.

As our business grows and evolves, the demand for qualified candidates continues to grow. Meanwhile, the pool of experienced candidates in the financial services industry is shrinking, presenting a growing challenge in securing top talent. To address this challenge, we have developed and continue to enhance a robust and comprehensive company-wide talent management program. This program encompasses talent acquisition and selection, performance coaching, career development, retention of top talent and succession planning. Our Board of Directors, through its Compensation and Human Capital Committee, provides oversight for our human capital strategies and compensation programs.

Talent Acquisition and Workforce Stability. To cultivate and recruit hard-to-fill positions, we partner closely with several colleges and universities with well-known programs relevant to our business. In 2025, we continued our Flexible Workplace Program that was formally launched in 2022, which provides hybrid and remote career opportunities. As of December 31, 2025, approximately 39% of our workforce was working hybrid or remote. Our willingness to accommodate flexible work arrangements underscores our commitment to supporting employee engagement and retention, and strengthening our leadership pipeline. Our voluntary employee turnover rate in 2025 was 14.6%.

Our employment application and hiring processes do not solicit prior compensation information from candidates. This approach helps ensure our new hire compensation is based on individual qualifications and roles, rather than being influenced by a candidate’s previous compensation history. In 2025, we hired 337 new employees into our workforce. We also accept relevant experience as an alternative to formal education requirements for many roles, to support expanded candidate pools.

Talent Development and Leadership Pipeline. We invest significant resources developing the talent needed to meet our business goals and to make us an employer of choice. We offer our employees a variety of professional development opportunities, including participation in industry conferences, instructor-led continuing education and training sessions. We also make available online training sessions that focus on industry, regulatory, business and leadership topics to help employees achieve their career goals, build management skills and lead their teams.

To foster a culture of growth and professional development, we launched a new leadership development program in 2024. This comprehensive, 12-month program represents a significant investment in our leaders and is intentionally aligned with the Bank’s strategic goals. In 2025, our inaugural class of 93 leaders successfully completed the program, and we welcomed a second class of 72 participants. This initiative reflects our commitment to building a robust talent pipeline—one that develops capable leaders, drives vision and purpose, cultivates innovation and strategic thinking, and supports continuous learning through experimentation. Grounded in eight core leadership competencies, the program equips leaders with the capabilities needed to navigate an evolving financial landscape and advance the Bank’s long‑term objectives.

To encourage advancement and growth within our organization, we provide information and guides to help individuals design their own career paths. With this strong focus on internal talent development, we filled 22% of all open positions in 2025 with internal candidates.

As part of our commitment to continuous learning, we require all employees to complete a variety of online training courses annually. These include both job-specific and general courses covering regulatory compliance, cybersecurity, fraud prevention, workplace standards, and ethics. We also encourage employees to enroll in outside education programs to broaden their knowledge and enhance job performance and we facilitate career growth by providing tuition assistance to help employees obtain bachelor’s and master’s degrees. This comprehensive approach underscores our dedication to nurturing a skilled and empowered workforce.

Succession Planning and Leadership Continuity. Recognizing the critical significance of succession planning for our CEO and other key executives, our Board of Directors takes an active role in overseeing and monitoring these efforts. Annually, the Board conducts a thorough review of our succession plans for senior leadership roles. The primary objective is to ensure that we consistently have the appropriate leadership talent in place, aligning with the organization’s long-term strategic plans. To facilitate this oversight, the Board’s Compensation and Human Capital Committee provides dedicated governance of talent development and succession planning for senior leadership roles.

Employee Engagement and Culture. Throughout 2025, we held quarterly virtual meetings with employees to communicate results and progress on strategic initiatives. We use anonymous employee surveys to gather valuable feedback on key initiatives, leveraging the results to enhance existing programs and develop new ones. In our commitment to fostering employee engagement and transparency, we share the survey results with our workforce. Additionally, senior leadership analyzes areas of progress or opportunities for improvement, prioritizing responsive actions and activities. In 2025, we earned Great Place to Work® certification with an overall engagement score of 86%. Beyond the formal engagement survey, we provide ongoing opportunities for managers and employees to ask questions, raise concerns and suggest ways to build a better and stronger company.

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Total Rewards (Compensation and Benefits). We provide robust compensation and benefits programs to help meet the needs of our employees. These programs include, subject to eligibility policies, variable pay tied to performance for all employees, a 401(k) plan (including an employer match up to 4% of eligible earnings and immediate vesting), healthcare and insurance benefits, health savings and flexible spending accounts, paid time off, family care resources, flexible work schedules, employee assistance programs and tuition assistance. New employees are eligible for group benefits on the first day of the month following their hire date. For some employees, this means they become eligible for coverage in their first week of employment. We also grant long-term, stock-based incentive awards to a select group of senior leaders who we believe will play critical roles in the Company’s future. We believe our compensation program is competitive within the financial industry. We periodically review our plans and programs, as well as market surveys, to help ensure our compensation program is consistent with our level of performance and that we have a current understanding of peer practices.

We offer comprehensive health insurance coverage, including telehealth services, to employees working an average of at least 20 hours per week. Coverage is also available to eligible family members including domestic partners. Beyond traditional health insurance, we offer a range of mental health-related programs and benefits, including text-based and telehealth services, a 24-hour nurse line and an employee assistance program. Additionally, we offer virtual physical therapy benefits and virtual support for hypertension and diabetes, as well as subsidized child, adult and senior care planning services. To further support employees and their caregivers dealing with cancer, we offer cancer support services. This service provides dedicated cancer care coaches 24/7 to provide personalized guidance to navigate the complexities of cancer care.

In addition to our core benefits program, we recognize the importance of supporting employees during significant life events. Therefore, we offer parental leave, providing eight weeks of leave for both birth and non-birth parents, including adoption or surrogacy. Our benefits package also includes traditional sick leave up to 10 days per year and 12 weeks of short-term disability coverage. Furthermore, employees have the flexibility to take up to 16 paid personal hours each year to observe individual days of significance, such as religious holidays, culturally significant days, or other personal reasons. This comprehensive benefits package reflects our commitment to the well-being and work-life balance of our valued employees.

Pay Equity. Pay equity and pay transparency are foundational to our compensation philosophy and core values. We began conducting pay equity studies in 2017 in collaboration with external experts to methodically assess employee groups in similar roles. These studies consider various factors such as job location and experience to promote fair and objective pay comparisons. In 2025, we began leveraging a technology platform designed to measure, achieve and sustain pay equity. This technology enables us to integrate pay equity analyses into our core business processes, allowing us to conduct reviews as frequently as needed to support our strategic goals. Through continuous monitoring, we remain committed to identifying and addressing pay disparities, in alignment with our compensation philosophy and applicable laws.

Incentive Compensation Risk Management. We strive to align incentives with the risk and performance frameworks of the Company. The Company’s “pay for performance” philosophy connects individual, operating unit and Company results to compensation, providing employees with opportunities to share in the Company’s overall growth and success. We develop, execute and govern all incentive compensation plans to discourage imprudent or excessive risk-taking and balance financial reward in a manner that supports our clients, employees and Company.

Workplace Environment. We seek to hire the best and brightest—including individuals who possess a broad range of professional experiences and skills. We believe that a workplace that values collaboration, respect and diverse perspectives results in better outcomes for all our stakeholders and empowers our employees to make more meaningful contributions within our Company and communities.

We aim to maintain a work environment where every employee is treated with dignity and respect, is free from discrimination and harassment, and is allowed to devote their full attention and best efforts to performing their job to the best of their ability. Further, we maintain a Respectful Workplace Policy in alignment with this commitment. We strive to operate with an “open door policy” where employee concerns can be discussed anytime directly with leadership or human resources team members. We regularly conduct employee engagement surveys and exit surveys to help collect meaningful feedback to inform our human capital practices. We have always championed the principles of fairness, respect, and opportunity, ensuring that all employees are recognized and rewarded based on their merit, talent, contributions, and performance.

We are an employer partner in the Department of Defense’s Military Spouse Employment Partnership (MSEP). This partnership connects military spouses with employers committed to recruiting, hiring, promoting and retaining military spouses. As an MSEP partner, we have agreed to post job openings to the Partnership’s portal, increase employment opportunities for military spouses, provide career advancement opportunities to military spouses who perform well, and when possible, work to retain military spouses when they relocate. We also committed to tracking and reporting military spouse employment data.

In 2025, we continued our employee engagement efforts through five employee-led networking and resource groups. Our groups are open to all employees and provide opportunities for connection, discussion and professional growth.

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We have a strong team collectively capable of professionally operating the business and fulfilling our vision. The following tables illustrate our workforce composition by level as of December 31, 2025, presented for transparency regarding our workforce profile:

* Refers to director-level employees, not Board of Directors

* Refers to director-level employees, not Board of Directors

Health, Safety and Well-being. The success of our business is fundamentally connected to the well-being of our employees. We provide employees and their families with access to a variety of programs to support their physical and mental health. We offer a wellness benefit that provides unlimited free one-on-one personal coaching in several different categories such as fitness, nutrition, life, and finances, as well as a range of tools to improve sleep quality. Most wellness benefits can be shared with up to five friends and family.

Community Engagement. We strive to be a good corporate citizen by encouraging employees to engage in the communities where they live and work. To encourage volunteering, we offer Community Connections, a program that offers employees up to 16 hours of paid time off to volunteer at non-profit organizations of their choice. We also encourage employees to serve in leadership roles in these organizations as part of their professional development. We are proud to support many local community organizations through financial contributions and employee-driven volunteerism, including Junior Achievement, United Way and hundreds of others.

Human Capital Metrics and Reporting. We capture critical metrics regarding human capital management on a quarterly basis and report them to the Compensation and Human Capital Committee of the Board of Directors. The Human Capital Management Dashboard includes a mixture of trending and point-in-time metrics designed to provide information and analysis of workforce composition, talent acquisition, workforce stability (retention, turnover, etc.), employee engagement, learning and development, and total rewards. As of December 31, 2025, we employed 1,930 full- and part-time employees and 4 temporary employees across our four-state footprint. Our employees are not represented by a collective bargaining agreement. As of December 31, 2025, 56% of our employees work in Washington State. We also have employees working in Oregon (20%), California (16%) and other states (8%). As of December 31, 2025, four generations were represented in our workplace with Millennials having the greatest representation (38%), followed by Gen-X (37%), Gen-Z (13%), and Boomers (12%).

Taxation

Tax-Sharing Agreement

The Company files its federal and state income tax returns on a consolidated basis under a tax-sharing agreement between Banner and the Bank, including the Bank’s subsidiaries. Each company of the consolidated group has calculated a minimum income tax which would be required if the individual subsidiary were to file federal and state income tax returns as a separate entity.  Each subsidiary pays to Banner an amount equal to the estimated income tax due if it were to file as a separate entity.  The payment is made on or about the time the subsidiary would be required to make such tax payments to the United States Treasury or the applicable State or Local Departments of Revenue.  In the event the computation of the subsidiary’s federal or state income tax liability, after considering any estimated tax payments, would result in a refund had the subsidiary filed on a separate-company basis, Banner may either apply the refund amount to the subsidiary’s tax liability for the following year or pay the subsidiary an amount equal to the hypothetical refund.  Banner acts as agent for each subsidiary with respect to all matters relating to consolidated tax returns and refund claims.  If Banner’s consolidated federal or state income tax liability is adjusted for any period, the liability of each party under the tax-sharing agreement is recomputed to reflect those adjustments. Any additional payments required as a result are made within a reasonable time after the related tax payments are made or refunds are received.

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Federal Taxation

For tax reporting purposes, we report our income on a calendar year basis using the accrual method of accounting on a consolidated basis.  We are subject to federal income taxation in the same manner as other corporations with some exceptions, including particularly the reserve for bad debts.

State and Local Taxation

Washington Taxation: We are subject to a Business and Occupation (B&O) tax which is imposed by the State of Washington on gross receipts. Interest received on loans secured by mortgages or deeds of trust on residential properties, residential mortgage-backed securities meeting certain required criteria, and certain U.S. Government and agency securities is not subject to this tax.

California, Oregon, Idaho, Montana and Utah Taxation: Corporations with nexus in the states of California, Oregon, Idaho, Montana and Utah are subject to a corporate level income tax.  In addition, the state of Oregon has a tax on Oregon corporate revenue. If a large percentage of our income were to come from these states, our state income tax provision would have an increased effect on our effective tax rate and results of operations.

Local Taxation: In addition to taxes payable to the state of Oregon, we are subject to local taxes in the Multnomah County and Portland-metro area based on our revenues in these jurisdictions.

Competition

We encounter significant competition both in attracting deposits and in originating loans.  Our most direct competition for deposits comes from other commercial and savings banks, savings associations and credit unions with offices in our market areas.  We also experience competition from securities firms, insurance companies, money market and mutual funds, and other investment vehicles. We expect competition from these institutions to remain strong, including from online banks and financial technology (FinTech) companies that leverage technology to deliver financial services. In addition, new technological developments, including the development and use of generative and agentic artificial intelligence, are rapidly evolving; we expect these technologies will continue to impact the competitive landscape, possibly to an increasing extent. Competition for both deposits and loans is influenced by prevailing interest rates and competitors’ pricing strategies. Our ability to attract and retain deposits also depends on our ability to provide transaction services and investment options that meet client needs. We compete by offering a broad range of deposit products and financial services, including electronic banking capabilities, with competitive rates and terms, convenient locations and hours, and a high level of personal service and expertise. We also compete by developing long-term client relationships and delivering a relationship-based banking model tailored to local markets. We continue to invest in technology and digital delivery channels to enhance client experience and remain competitive. Certain nonbank competitors are not subject to the same regulatory framework as banks, which may provide them with greater operational flexibility.

Competition for loans comes principally from other commercial banks, loan brokers, mortgage banking companies, savings banks and credit unions and for agricultural loans from the Farm Credit Administration.  The competition for loans is intense as a result of the large number of institutions competing in our market areas.  We compete for loans primarily by offering competitive rates and fees and providing timely decisions and excellent service to borrowers.

Regulation

General:  As a state-chartered, federally insured commercial bank, the Bank is subject to extensive regulation and must comply with various statutory and regulatory requirements, including prescribed minimum capital standards.  The Bank is regularly examined by the FDIC and the Washington DFI and files periodic reports about its activities and financial condition with these banking regulators.  The Bank’s relationship with depositors and borrowers is also regulated to a great extent by both federal and state law, especially in such matters as the ownership of deposit accounts and the form and content of mortgage and other loan documents.

Federal and state banking laws and regulations govern all areas of the operation of the Bank, including reserves, loans, investments, deposits, capital, issuance of securities, payment of dividends and establishment of branches.  Federal and state bank regulatory agencies also have the general authority to limit the dividends paid by insured banks and bank holding companies if such payments should be deemed to constitute an unsafe and unsound practice and in other circumstances.  The Federal Reserve and FDIC, as the respective primary federal regulators of Banner and of the Bank, have authority to impose penalties, initiate civil and administrative actions and take other steps intended to prevent banks from engaging in unsafe or unsound practices. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) is an independent bureau within the Federal Reserve System. The CFPB is responsible for the implementation of the federal financial consumer protection and fair lending laws and regulations and has authority to impose new requirements.

Any change in applicable laws, regulations, or regulatory policies may have a material effect on our business, operations, and prospects. We cannot predict the nature or the extent of the effects on our business and earnings that any fiscal or monetary policies or new federal or state legislation may have in the future.

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The following is a summary discussion of certain laws and regulations applicable to Banner and the Bank, which is qualified in its entirety by reference to the actual laws and regulations.

Banner Bank

State Regulation and Supervision:  As a Washington state-chartered commercial bank with branches in Washington, Oregon, Idaho and California, the Bank is subject not only to the applicable provisions of Washington law and regulations, but is also subject to Oregon, Idaho and California laws and regulations.  These state laws and regulations govern the Bank’s ability to take deposits and pay interest thereon, to make loans on or invest in residential and other real estate, to make consumer loans, to invest in securities, to offer various banking services to its clients and to establish branch offices.

Deposit Insurance: The Deposit Insurance Fund of the FDIC insures deposit accounts of the Bank up to $250,000 per separately insured deposit relationship category.  As insurer, the FDIC imposes deposit insurance premiums and is authorized to conduct examinations of, and to require reporting by, FDIC-insured institutions. No institution may pay a dividend if it is in default on its federal deposit insurance assessment. As of December 31, 2025, assessment rates ranged from five basis points to 32 basis points for all institutions, subject to adjustments for unsecured debt issued by the institution, unsecured debt issued by other FDIC-insured institutions, and brokered deposits held by the institution. The FDIC is required to update its analysis and projections for the Deposit Insurance Fund balance and reserve ratio at least semiannually and make necessary adjustments to the assessment rate schedules.

The FDIC may prohibit any insured institution from engaging in any activity determined by regulation or order to pose a serious risk to the deposit insurance fund. The FDIC may terminate the deposit insurance of any insured depository institution if it determines after a hearing that the institution has engaged or is engaging in unsafe or unsound practices, is in an unsafe or unsound condition to continue operations, or has violated any applicable law, regulation, order or any condition imposed by an agreement with the FDIC.  It also may suspend deposit insurance temporarily during the hearing process for the permanent termination of insurance if the institution has no tangible capital.  If insurance of accounts is terminated, the accounts at the institution at the time of the termination, less subsequent withdrawals, shall continue to be insured for a period of six months to two years, as determined by the FDIC.  Management is not aware of any existing circumstances which would result in termination of deposit insurance of the Bank.

Standards for Safety and Soundness:  The federal banking regulatory agencies have prescribed, by regulation, guidelines for all insured depository institutions relating to internal controls, information systems and internal audit systems; loan documentation; credit underwriting; interest rate risk exposure; asset growth; asset quality; earnings; and compensation, fees and benefits.  The guidelines set forth the safety and soundness standards that the federal banking agencies use to identify and address problems at insured depository institutions.  Each insured depository institution must implement a comprehensive written information security program that includes administrative, technical, and physical safeguards appropriate to the institution’s size and complexity and the nature and scope of its activities.  The information security program must be designed to ensure the security and confidentiality of client information, protect against any unanticipated threats or hazards to the security or integrity of such information, protect against unauthorized access to or use of such information that could result in substantial harm or inconvenience to any client, and ensure the proper disposal of client and consumer information.  Each insured depository institution must also develop and implement a risk-based response program to address incidents of unauthorized access to client information in client information systems.  If the FDIC determines that an institution fails to meet any of these guidelines, it may require an institution to submit to the FDIC an acceptable plan to achieve compliance.

Capital Requirements: Bank holding companies, such as Banner, and federally insured financial institutions, such as the Bank, are required to maintain a minimum level of regulatory capital. Banner and the Bank are subject to minimum required ratios for Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) capital, Tier 1 capital, total capital and the leverage ratio and a required capital conservation buffer over the required capital ratios.

Under the capital regulations, the minimum capital ratios are: (1) a CET1 capital ratio of 4.5% of risk-weighted assets; (2) a Tier 1 capital ratio of 6.0% of risk-weighted assets; (3) a total risk-based capital ratio of 8.0% of risk-weighted assets; and (4) a leverage ratio (the ratio of Tier 1 capital to average total consolidated assets) of 4.0%.  CET1 generally consists of common stock; retained earnings; accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI) unless an institution elects to exclude AOCI from regulatory capital; and certain minority interests; all subject to applicable regulatory adjustments and deductions. Tier 1 capital generally consists of CET1 and noncumulative perpetual preferred stock. Tier 2 capital generally consists of other preferred stock and subordinated debt meeting certain conditions plus an amount of the allowance for credit losses up to 1.25% of assets. Total capital is the sum of Tier 1 and Tier 2 capital.

Trust preferred securities issued by a bank holding company, such as the Company, with total consolidated assets of less than $15 billion before May 19, 2010, and treated as regulatory capital are grandfathered, but any such securities issued later are not eligible to be treated as regulatory capital.  For institutions that grow above $15 billion as a result of an acquisition, the trust preferred securities are excluded from Tier 1 capital and instead included in Tier 2 capital. Mortgage servicing assets and deferred tax assets over designated percentages of CET1 are deducted from capital.  In addition, Tier 1 capital includes AOCI, which includes all unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale debt and equity securities.  However, because of our asset size, we were eligible to elect, and did elect, to permanently opt out of the inclusion of unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale debt and equity securities in our capital calculations.

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For purposes of determining risk-based capital, assets and certain off-balance sheet items are risk-weighted from 0% to 1250%, depending on the risk characteristics of the asset or item. In addition to the minimum CET1, Tier 1, leverage ratio and total capital ratios, Banner and the Bank must maintain a capital conservation buffer consisting of additional CET1 capital greater than 2.5% of risk-weighted assets above the required minimum risk-based capital levels in order to avoid limitations on paying dividends, repurchasing shares, and paying discretionary bonuses.

To be considered “well capitalized,” a bank holding company must have, on a consolidated basis, a total risk-based capital ratio of 10.0% or greater and a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of 6.0% or greater and must not be subject to an individual order, directive or agreement under which the FRB requires it to maintain a specific capital level.  To be considered “well capitalized,” a depository institution must have a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of at least 8.0%, a total risk-based capital ratio of at least 10.0%, a CET1 capital ratio of at least 6.5% and a leverage ratio of at least 5.0% and not be subject to an individualized order, directive or agreement under which its primary federal banking regulator requires it to maintain a specific capital level.

Prompt Corrective Action:  Federal statutes establish a supervisory framework for FDIC-insured institutions based on five capital categories:  well capitalized, adequately capitalized, undercapitalized, significantly undercapitalized and critically undercapitalized.  An institution’s category depends upon where its capital levels are in relation to relevant capital measures. The well-capitalized category is described above. An institution that is not well capitalized is subject to certain restrictions on brokered deposits, including restrictions on the rates it can offer on its deposits generally.  To be considered adequately capitalized, an institution must have the minimum capital ratios described above. Any institution which is neither well capitalized nor adequately capitalized is considered undercapitalized.

Undercapitalized institutions are subject to certain prompt corrective action requirements, regulatory controls and restrictions which become more extensive as an institution becomes more severely undercapitalized.  Failure by the Bank to comply with applicable capital requirements would, if unremedied, result in progressively more severe restrictions on its activities and lead to enforcement actions, including, but not limited to, the issuance of a capital directive to ensure the maintenance of required capital levels and, ultimately, the appointment of the FDIC as receiver or conservator.  Banking regulators will take prompt corrective action with respect to depository institutions that do not meet minimum capital requirements.  Additionally, approval of any regulatory application filed for their review may be dependent on compliance with capital requirements. As of December 31, 2025, Banner and the Bank met the requirements to be “well capitalized” and the capital conservation buffer requirements.

Commercial Real Estate Lending Concentrations:  The federal banking agencies have issued guidance on sound risk management practices for concentrations in commercial real estate lending.  The particular focus is on exposure to commercial real estate loans that are dependent on the cash flow from the real estate held as collateral and that are likely to be sensitive to conditions in the commercial real estate market (as opposed to real estate collateral held as a secondary source of repayment or as an abundance of caution).  The purpose of the guidance is not to limit a bank’s commercial real estate lending but to guide banks in developing risk management practices and capital levels commensurate with the level and nature of real estate concentrations.  The guidance directs the FDIC and other bank regulatory agencies to focus their supervisory resources on institutions that may have significant commercial real estate loan concentration risk.  A bank that has experienced rapid growth in commercial real estate lending, has notable exposure to a specific type of commercial real estate loan, or is approaching or exceeding the following supervisory criteria may be identified for further supervisory analysis with respect to real estate concentration risk:

•Total reported loans for construction, land development and other land represent 100% or more of the bank’s total regulatory capital; or

•Total commercial real estate loans (as defined in the guidance) represent 300% or more of the bank’s total regulatory capital and the outstanding balance of the bank’s commercial real estate loan portfolio has increased 50% or more during the prior 36 months.

The guidance provides that the strength of an institution’s lending and risk management practices with respect to such concentrations will be taken into account in supervisory guidance on evaluation of capital adequacy.  As of December 31, 2025, the Bank’s aggregate recorded loan balances for construction, land and land development loans were 88% of total regulatory capital.  In addition, at December 31, 2025, the Bank’s loans secured by commercial real estate represent 258% of total regulatory capital.

Activities and Investments of Insured State-Chartered Financial Institutions:  Federal law generally limits the activities and equity investments of FDIC insured, state-chartered banks to those that are permissible for national banks.  An insured state bank is not prohibited from, among other things: (1) acquiring or retaining a majority interest in a subsidiary; (2) investing as a limited partner in a partnership the sole purpose of which is direct or indirect investment in the acquisition, rehabilitation or new construction of a qualified housing project, provided that such limited partnership investments may not exceed 2% of the bank’s total assets; (3) acquiring up to 10% of the voting stock of a company that solely provides or re-insures directors’, trustees’ and officers’ liability insurance coverage or bankers’ blanket bond group insurance coverage for insured depository institutions; and (4) acquiring or retaining the voting shares of a depository institution if certain requirements are met.

Washington State has enacted laws regarding financial institution parity.  These laws afford Washington-chartered commercial banks the same powers as Washington-chartered savings banks and provide that Washington-chartered commercial banks may exercise any of the powers that the Federal Reserve has determined to be closely related to the business of banking and the powers of national banks, subject to the approval of the Director in certain situations.  Finally, the law provides additional flexibility for Washington-chartered banks with respect to interest rates on loans and other extensions of credit.  Specifically, they may charge the maximum interest rate allowable for loans and other extensions of credit by federally chartered financial institutions.

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Environmental Issues Associated with Real Estate Lending: The Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA) is a federal statute that generally imposes strict liability on all prior and present “owners and operators” of sites containing hazardous waste.  However, Congress acted to protect secured creditors by providing that the term “owner and operator” excludes a person whose ownership is limited to protecting its security interest in the site.  Since the enactment of the CERCLA, this “secured creditor exemption” has been the subject of judicial interpretations which have left open the possibility that lenders could be liable for cleanup costs on contaminated property that they hold as collateral for a loan.  To the extent that legal uncertainty exists in this area, all creditors, including the Bank, that have made loans secured by properties with potentially hazardous waste contamination (such as petroleum contamination) could be subject to liability for cleanup costs, which often substantially exceed the value of the collateral property.

Federal Reserve System:  The Federal Reserve has the authority to establish reserve requirements on transaction accounts or non-personal time deposits.  These reserves may be in the form of cash or non-interest-bearing deposits with the regional Federal Reserve Bank.  Interest-bearing checking accounts and other types of accounts that permit payments or transfers to third parties fall within the definition of transaction accounts and are subject to Regulation D reserve requirements, as are any non-personal time deposits at a bank.  In March 2020, the Federal Reserve reduced requirements to zero percent to support lending to households and businesses. Currently, the Federal Reserve has stated it has no plans to re-impose reserve requirements. However, the Federal Reserve may adjust reserve requirement ratios in the future if conditions warrant.

Affiliate Transactions:  Banner and the Bank are separate and distinct legal entities. Banner (and any non-bank subsidiary of Banner) is an affiliate of the Bank. Federal laws strictly limit the ability of banks to engage in certain transactions with their affiliates.  Transactions deemed to be a “covered transaction” under Section 23A of the Federal Reserve Act between a bank and an affiliate are limited to 10% of the bank’s capital and surplus and, with respect to all affiliates, to an aggregate of 20% of the bank’s capital and surplus.  Further, covered transactions that are loans and extensions of credit generally are required to be secured by eligible collateral in specified amounts.  Federal law also requires that covered transactions and certain other transactions listed in Section 23B of the Federal Reserve Act between a bank and its affiliates be on terms as favorable to the bank as transactions with non-affiliates.

Community Reinvestment Act:  The Bank is subject to the Community Reinvestment Act of 1977 (CRA), which requires that federal banking regulatory agencies assess a bank’s performance in meeting the credit needs of its community, including low- and moderate-income neighborhoods. The regulatory agency’s assessment of the bank’s record is made available to the public and is considered when a bank applies to establish a new branch, relocate an existing office, or merge or acquire another federally regulated financial institution. The Bank received an “outstanding” rating in its most recent CRA examination.

On October 24, 2023, federal banking agencies, including the FDIC, issued a final rule to strengthen and modernize CRA regulations. The final rule was published with an April 1, 2024, effective date and staggered compliance dates; however, implementation of the 2023 final rule was stayed by a preliminary injunction. In 2025, the federal banking agencies issued a Joint Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to rescind the 2023 final rule and reinstate the prior CRA regulations. As a result, the Bank will continue to be evaluated under the pre-2023 CRA regulatory framework.

Dividends:  The amount of dividends payable by the Bank to the Company depends upon its earnings and capital position, and is limited by federal and state laws, regulations and policies, including the capital conservation buffer requirement. Federal law further provides that no insured depository institution may make any capital distribution (which includes a cash dividend) if, after making the distribution, the institution would be “undercapitalized,” as defined in the prompt corrective action regulations. Moreover, the federal bank regulatory agencies also have the general authority to limit the dividends paid by insured banks if such payments should be deemed to constitute an unsafe and unsound practice. In addition, under Washington law, no bank may declare or pay any dividend in an amount greater than its retained earnings without the prior approval of the Washington DFI. The Washington DFI also has the power to require any bank to suspend the payment of any and all dividends.

Privacy Standards and Cybersecurity: The Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act of 1999 (GLBA) established a framework allowing affiliations among commercial banks, insurance companies, securities firms, and other financial service providers. Federal banking agencies, including the FDIC, have implemented guidelines mandating that financial institutions develop, implement, and maintain administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect client information. These guidelines emphasize risk management, particularly concerning information technology and third-party service providers. Additionally, the GLBA requires financial institutions to disclose their privacy policies to consumers, detailing information-sharing practices and providing options to opt out of certain disclosures.

The California Consumer Privacy Act of 2018 (CCPA), effective January 1, 2020, grants California residents rights regarding their personal information, including the rights to know, delete, and opt out of the sale of their data. The CCPA also introduces a private right of action for data breaches, potentially increasing liability for affected businesses. While the CCPA exempts personal information collected under the GLBA, this exemption does not extend to the private right of action for data breaches. In November 2020, California voters approved the California Privacy Rights Act (CPRA), which amended the CCPA by enhancing consumer privacy rights and establishing the California Privacy Protection Agency for enforcement. Compliance with the CCPA, CPRA, and similar state laws may necessitate the implementation of specific regulatory compliance and risk management controls. Non-compliance could result in substantial fines, penalties, legal actions, and reputational harm.

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In 2022, federal banking agencies adopted a rule introducing new notification requirements for banking organizations and their service providers concerning significant cybersecurity incidents. Banks must notify their primary federal regulator as soon as possible, and no later than 36 hours after identifying a computer-security incident that materially affects, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the bank’s operations, its ability to deliver services, or the stability of the financial sector. Service providers are required to inform affected banks promptly if they experience an incident that has materially disrupted, or is likely to disrupt, services for four or more hours.

Anti-Money Laundering, Bank Secrecy and Client Identification:  The Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001 (USA PATRIOT Act) was signed into law on October 26, 2001.  The USA PATRIOT and Bank Secrecy Acts require financial institutions to develop programs to prevent financial institutions from being used for money laundering and terrorist activities. If such activities are detected, financial institutions are obligated to file suspicious activity reports with the U.S. Treasury’s Office of Financial Crimes Enforcement Network. Financial institutions must establish procedures to identify and verify the identity of clients seeking to open new financial accounts, and the beneficial owners of accounts. Bank regulators are directed to consider an institution’s effectiveness in combating money laundering when ruling on Bank Holding Company Act and Bank Merger Act applications.  The Bank’s policies and procedures are designed to comply with the requirements of the USA PATRIOT Act.

Other Consumer Protection Laws and Regulations:  The CFPB is empowered to exercise broad regulatory, supervisory and enforcement authority with respect to both new and existing consumer financial protection laws. The Bank and its affiliates and subsidiaries are subject to CFPB supervisory and enforcement authority. In early 2025, CFPB leadership significantly scaled back the agency’s rulemaking, enforcement and supervisory activities, including pausing major enforcement actions, rescinding guidance, and narrowing priorities which has significantly reduced active oversight of financial institutions. Although statutory consumer protection requirements remain in force, the agency’s diminished operations have created regulatory uncertainty with respect to the supervision and enforcement of the existing consumer financial protection laws.

The Bank is subject to a broad array of federal and state consumer protection laws and regulations that govern almost every aspect of its business relationships with consumers.  While the list set forth below is not exhaustive, these include the Truth-in-Lending Act, the Truth in Savings Act, the Electronic Fund Transfers Act, the Expedited Funds Availability Act, the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, the Fair Housing Act, the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act, the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act, the Fair Credit Reporting Act, the Right to Financial Privacy Act, the Home Ownership and Equity Protection Act, the Fair Credit Billing Act, the Homeowners Protection Act, the Check Clearing for the 21st Century Act, flood insurance laws, consumer protection laws connected with the sale of insurance, federal and state laws prohibiting unfair and deceptive business practices, and various regulations that implement some or all of these areas.  These laws and regulations mandate certain disclosure requirements and regulate how financial institutions must deal with clients when taking deposits, making loans, collecting loans, and providing other services.  Failure to comply with these laws and regulations can subject the Bank to various penalties, including but not limited to, enforcement actions, injunctions, fines, civil liability, criminal penalties, punitive damages, and the loss of certain contractual rights.

Banner Corporation

General:  Banner, as sole shareholder of the Bank, is a bank holding company registered with the Federal Reserve.  Bank holding companies are subject to comprehensive regulation by the Federal Reserve under the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended, or the BHCA, and the regulations of the Federal Reserve.  Banner is required to file quarterly reports with the Federal Reserve and provide additional information as the Federal Reserve may require.  The Federal Reserve may examine Banner, and any of its subsidiaries.  The Federal Reserve also has extensive enforcement authority over bank holding companies, including, among other things, the ability to assess civil money penalties, to issue cease and desist or removal orders and to require that a holding company divest subsidiaries (including its bank subsidiaries).  In general, enforcement actions may be initiated for violations of law and regulations and unsafe or unsound practices.  Banner is also required to file certain reports with, and comply with the rules and regulations of the SEC.

The Bank Holding Company Act (BHCA):  Under the BHCA, Banner is supervised by the Federal Reserve.  The Federal Reserve has a policy that a bank holding company is required to serve as a source of financial and managerial strength to its subsidiary banks and may not conduct its operations in an unsafe or unsound manner.  In addition, the Dodd-Frank Act provides that a bank holding company must serve as a source of financial strength to its subsidiary banks.  A bank holding company’s failure to meet its obligation to serve as a source of strength to its subsidiary banks will generally be considered by the Federal Reserve to be an unsafe and unsound banking practice or a violation of the Federal Reserve’s regulations or both.  No regulations have yet been proposed by the Federal Reserve to implement the source of strength provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act.  Banner and any subsidiaries that it may control are considered “affiliates” of the Bank within the meaning of the Federal Reserve Act, and transactions between the Bank and affiliates are subject to numerous restrictions.  With some exceptions, Banner and its subsidiaries are prohibited from tying the provision of various services, such as extensions of credit, to other services offered by Banner or by its affiliates.

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Acquisitions:  The BHCA prohibits a bank holding company, with certain exceptions, from acquiring ownership or control of more than 5% of the voting shares of any company that is not a bank or bank holding company and from engaging in activities other than those of banking, managing or controlling banks, or providing services for its subsidiaries.  Under the BHCA, the Federal Reserve may approve the ownership of shares by a bank holding company in any company, the activities of which the Federal Reserve has determined to be so closely related to the business of banking or managing or controlling banks as to be a proper incident thereto.  These activities include:  operating a savings institution, mortgage company, finance company, credit card company or factoring company; performing certain data processing operations; providing certain investment and financial advice; underwriting and acting as an insurance agent for certain types of credit-related insurance; leasing property on a full-payout, non-operating basis; selling money orders, travelers’ checks and U.S. Savings Bonds; real estate and personal property appraising; providing tax planning and preparation services; and, subject to certain limitations, providing securities brokerage services for clients.

Federal Securities Laws:  Banner’s common stock is registered with the SEC under Section 12(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.  We are subject to information, proxy solicitation, insider trading restrictions and other requirements under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the Exchange Act). In addition, the SEC has enacted rules related to the reporting of cybersecurity events that are material to the Company’s operations within a specified time frame.

The Dodd-Frank Act: The Dodd-Frank Act imposes various restrictions and an expanded framework of regulatory oversight for financial institutions, including depository institutions, and implements certain capital regulations applicable to Banner and the Bank that are discussed above under the section entitled “Capital Requirements.”

Among other things, the Dodd-Frank Act requires public companies, like Banner, to (i) provide their shareholders with a non-binding vote (a) at least once every three years on the compensation paid to executive officers and (b) at least once every six years on whether they should have a “say on pay” vote every one, two or three years; (ii) have a separate, non-binding shareholder vote regarding golden parachutes for named executive officers when a shareholder vote takes place on mergers, acquisitions, dispositions or other transactions that would trigger the parachute payments; (iii) provide disclosure in annual proxy materials about the relationship between executive compensation paid and the financial performance of the issuer; and (iv) disclose the ratio of the Chief Executive Officer’s annual total compensation to the median annual total compensation of all other employees.

The regulations to implement the provisions of Section 619 of the Dodd-Frank Act, commonly referred to as the Volcker Rule, contain prohibitions and restrictions on the ability of financial institutions holding companies and their affiliates to engage in proprietary trading and hold certain interests in, or have certain relationships with, various types of investment funds, including hedge funds and private equity funds. Banner is continuously reviewing its investment portfolio to determine if changes in its investment strategies are in compliance with Volcker Rule regulations.

Interstate Banking and Branching:  The Federal Reserve must approve a bank holding company’s application to acquire control, or acquire all or substantially all the assets, of a bank located in a state other than the holding company’s home state, without regard to whether the transaction is prohibited by the laws of any state.  The Federal Reserve may not approve the acquisition of a bank that has not been in existence for the minimum time period (not exceeding five years) specified by statutory law of the host state.  Nor may the Federal Reserve approve an application if the applicant (and its depository institution affiliates) controls or would control more than 10% of the insured deposits in the United States or 30% or more of the deposits in the target bank’s home state or in any state in which the target bank maintains a branch.  Federal law does not affect states’ authority to limit the percentage of total insured deposits in the state which may be held or controlled by a bank holding company to the extent such limitation does not discriminate against out-of-state banks or bank holding companies.  Individual states may also waive the 30% state-wide concentration limit contained in the federal law.

Federal banking agencies are generally authorized to approve interstate merger transactions without regard to whether the transaction is prohibited by the law of any state.  Interstate branch acquisitions are permitted only if the law of the state in which the branch is located permits such acquisitions.  Interstate mergers and branch acquisitions are subject to the nationwide and statewide insured deposit concentration amounts described above.  Under the Dodd-Frank Act, the federal banking agencies may generally approve interstate de novo branching.

Dividends:  The Federal Reserve issued a policy statement on cash dividend payments by bank holding companies, which expresses its view that, although there are no specific regulations restricting dividend payments by bank holding companies other than state corporate laws, a bank holding company must maintain an adequate capital position and generally should not pay cash dividends unless the company’s net income for the past year is sufficient to fully fund the cash dividends and that the prospective rate of earnings appears consistent with the company’s capital needs, asset quality, and overall financial condition.  The Federal Reserve policy statement also indicates that it would be inappropriate for a company experiencing serious financial problems to borrow funds to pay dividends. The capital conversion buffer requirement can also restrict Banner’s and the Bank’s ability to pay dividends. Further, under Washington law, Banner is prohibited from paying a dividend if, after making such dividend payment, it would be unable to pay its debts as they become due in the usual course of business. Banner is also prohibited from paying a dividend if its total liabilities, plus the amount that would be needed in the event Banner were to be dissolved at the time of the dividend payment exceed our total assets.

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Stock Repurchases:  A bank holding company, except for certain “well capitalized” and highly rated bank holding companies, is required to give the Federal Reserve prior written notice of any purchase or redemption of its outstanding equity securities if the gross consideration for the purchase or redemption, when combined with the net consideration paid for all such purchases or redemptions during the preceding 12 months, is equal to 10% or more of its consolidated net worth.  The Federal Reserve may disapprove such a purchase or redemption if it determines that the proposal would constitute an unsafe or unsound practice or would violate any law, regulation, Federal Reserve order or any condition imposed by, or written agreement with, the Federal Reserve.

Corporate Information

Our principal executive offices are located at 10 South First Avenue, Walla Walla, Washington 99362. Our company website is www.bannerbank.com.  The information contained on our website is not included as a part of, or incorporated by reference into, this Annual Report on Form 10-K.  Our Annual Report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to these reports, are available free of charge through our website, as soon as reasonably practicable after we have electronically filed such material with, or furnished such material to, the SEC.