HERITAGE FINANCIAL CORP /WA/ (HFWA) Business

ITEM 1.        BUSINESS

Overview

Heritage Financial Corporation is a bank holding company that was incorporated in the State of Washington in August 1997. We are primarily engaged in the business of planning, directing, and coordinating the business activities of our wholly-owned subsidiary and single reportable segment, Heritage Bank.

Heritage Bank is headquartered in Olympia, Washington and conducts business from its 50 branch offices located throughout Washington State, the greater Portland, Oregon area, Eugene, Oregon and Boise, Idaho and its one loan production office in Spokane, Washington as of December 31, 2025. Heritage Bank also does business under the Whidbey Island Bank name on Whidbey Island, Washington. On January 31, 2026, Heritage completed its acquisition of Olympic and Olympic’s wholly-owned banking subsidiary, Kitsap Bank. The acquisition added 16 branch offices to the franchise, doing business under the Kitsap Bank name as a division of Heritage Bank. The deposits of the Bank are insured by the FDIC.

Our business consists primarily of commercial lending and deposit relationships with small and medium-sized businesses and their owners in our market areas and attracting deposits from the general public. We also make real estate construction and land development loans and consumer loans.

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Recent Acquisition

On January 31, 2026, the Company completed its acquisition of Olympic Bancorp, Inc., a bank holding company headquartered in Port Orchard, Washington, pursuant to the Agreement and Plan of Bank Merger, dated as of September 25, 2025, by and between the Company and Olympic (the "merger agreement"), whereby Olympic merged with and into the Company, and subsequently Kitsap Bank, Olympic's wholly-owned banking subsidiary, merged with and into the Bank. Pursuant to the terms of the merger agreement, Olympic shareholders received 45.0 shares of Heritage common stock for each share of Olympic common stock based on a fixed exchange ratio. Olympic's principal activity was the ownership and operation of Kitsap Bank, a state-chartered banking institution that operated sixteen branches in Washington at the time of closing. The merger consideration, consisting of 7,167,600 shares of Heritage common stock, totaled approximately $185.0 million, based on the closing price of Heritage common stock on January 30, 2026, as reported on the Nasdaq Global Select Market. At close, Olympic had total assets of approximately $1.6 billion, loans of approximately $0.9 billion and deposits of approximately $1.4 billion.

The Company accounts for these transactions under the acquisition method of accounting, and thus, the financial position and results of operations of acquired institutions prior to the consummation date are not included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements. The acquisition method of accounting requires assets purchased and liabilities assumed to be recorded at their respective fair values at the date of acquisition. The Company determines the fair value of core deposit intangibles, securities, premises and equipment, loans, other assets and liabilities, deposits and borrowings with the assistance of third party valuations, appraisals, and third party advisors. The estimated fair values are subject to refinement for up to one year after deal consummation as additional information becomes available relative to the closing date fair values.

Business Strategy

We are committed to being the leading commercial community bank in the Pacific Northwest by continuously improving customer satisfaction, employee empowerment, community investment and shareholder value. Our commitment defines our relationships, sets expectations for our actions and directs decision-making in these four fundamental areas. We seek to achieve our business goals through the following strategies:

Expand geographically as opportunities present themselves. We are committed to continuing the controlled expansion of our franchise through strategic acquisitions designed to increase our market share and enhance franchise value. We believe that consolidation across the community bank landscape will continue to take place and further believe that, with our capital and liquidity positions, our approach to credit management, and our extensive acquisition experience, we are well-positioned to take advantage of acquisitions or other business opportunities in our market areas. In markets where we wish to enter or expand our business, we also periodically consider opening de novo branches, typically in conjunction with hiring commercial lending and deposit teams. In the past, we have successfully integrated acquired institutions and opened de novo branches. We continue to be disciplined and opportunistic as it pertains to future acquisitions and de novo branching, focusing on the Pacific Northwest markets we know and understand.

Focus on asset quality. A strong credit culture is a high priority for us. We have a well-developed credit approval structure that has enabled us to maintain a standard of asset quality that we believe has moderate and manageable risk while at the same time allowing us to achieve our lending objectives. We continue to focus on loan types and markets that we know well and where we have a historical record of success. We focus on loan relationships that are well-diversified in both size and industry types. With respect to commercial business lending, which is our predominant lending activity, we view ourselves as cash-flow lenders obtaining additional support from realistic collateral values, personal guarantees and other secondary sources of repayment. We have a problem loan resolution process that is focused on quick detection and implementing feasible solutions and subject our loans to periodic internal loan reviews.

Maintain a strong balance sheet. In addition to our focus on underwriting, we believe the strength of our balance sheet provides us with the flexibility to manage through a variety of scenarios including additional growth-related activities. As of December 31, 2025, our on-balance sheet liquidity position was $233.1 million in cash and cash equivalents and $1.28 billion in total investment securities. See also Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Liquidity and Capital Resources of this Form 10-K. As of December 31, 2025, the regulatory capital ratios of the Bank were in excess of the levels required for “well-capitalized” status, and our consolidated common equity tier 1 capital ratio, leverage ratio, Tier 1 capital ratio, and total capital ratio were 12.7%, 10.8%, 13.1% and 14.1%, respectively.

Focus on deposit growth. Our strategic focus is to continuously grow deposits with emphasis on total relationship banking with our business and retail customers. We continue to seek to increase our market share in the communities we serve by providing exceptional customer service, focusing on relationship development with local businesses and strategic branch expansion. Our primary focus is to maintain a high level of non-maturity deposits to internally fund our loan growth with a low reliance on maturity (certificate) deposits. At December 31, 2025, our non-maturity deposits were 84.1% of our total deposits. Our technology-based products, including online personal financial management, business cash management and business remote deposit products enable us to compete effectively with banks of all sizes. Our retail and commercial management teams are well-seasoned and have strong ties to the communities we serve with a strong focus on relationship building and customer service.

Emphasize business relationships with a focus on commercial lending. We continue to market primarily commercial business loans and the deposit balances that accompany these relationships. Our seasoned lending staff has extensive knowledge and experience, and can add value through a focused advisory role that we believe strengthens our customer relationships and develops loyalty. We currently have, and will seek to maintain, a diversified portfolio of lending relationships without significant concentrations in any industry.

Recruit and retain highly competent personnel to execute our strategies. Our compensation and staff development programs are aligned with our strategies to grow our loans and non-maturity deposits while maintaining our focus on asset quality. Our

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incentive systems are designed to achieve balanced, high quality asset growth while maintaining appropriate mechanisms to reduce or eliminate incentive payments when appropriate. Our equity compensation programs and retirement benefits are designed to build and encourage employee ownership at all levels of the Company and we align employee performance objectives with corporate growth strategies and shareholder value. We have a strong corporate culture, which is supported by our commitment to internal development and promotion from within as well as the retention of management and officers in key roles.

There have been no material changes to our business strategy during the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024.

History

The Bank was established in 1927 as a federally-chartered mutual savings bank. In 1992, the Bank converted to a state-chartered mutual savings bank under the name "Heritage Savings Bank". Through the mutual holding company reorganization of the Bank and subsequent conversion of the mutual holding company, the Bank became a stock savings bank and a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company effective August 1997. Effective September 1, 2004, Heritage Savings Bank switched its charter from a state-chartered savings bank to a state-chartered commercial bank and changed its legal name from "Heritage Savings Bank" to "Heritage Bank". The following table lists major acquisitions completed by the Company:

Description of Business

Retail Banking

We offer a full range of products and services to customers for personal and business banking needs designed to attract both short-term and long-term deposits. Deposits are our primary source of funds. Our personal and business banking customers have the option of selecting from a variety of account types. The major categories of deposit accounts that we offer are described below. These accounts, with the exception of noninterest demand accounts, generally earn interest at rates established by management based on competitive market factors and management’s desire to increase or decrease certain types or maturities of deposits.

Noninterest Demand Deposits. Deposits are noninterest bearing and may be charged service fees based on activity and balances.

Interest Bearing Demand Deposits. Deposits are interest bearing and may be charged service fees based on activity and balances. Interest bearing demand deposits pay interest, but require a higher minimum balance to avoid service charges.

Money Market Accounts. Deposits pay an interest rate that is tiered depending on the balance maintained in the account. Minimum opening balances vary.

Savings Accounts. Deposits are interest bearing provided that a minimum balance is maintained to avoid service charges.

Certificate of Deposit Accounts. Deposits require a minimum deposit of $2,500 and have maturities ranging from three months to five years. Jumbo certificate of deposit accounts are offered in amounts of $100,000 or more for terms of seven days to one year.

Our personal checking accounts feature an array of benefits and options, including online banking, online statements, mobile banking with mobile deposit, Visa debit cards and access to more than 40,000 surcharge free Automated Teller Machines through the MoneyPass network.

We also offer investment advice through a Wealth Management department that provides objective advice from trusted advisers.

Lending Activities

Our lending activities are conducted through the Bank. While our focus is on commercial business lending, we also originate real estate construction and land development loans and consumer loans. Our loans are originated under policies that are reviewed

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and approved annually by our Board. In addition, we have established internal lending guidelines that are updated as needed. These policies and guidelines address underwriting standards, structure and rate considerations and compliance with laws, regulations and internal lending limits. We conduct post-approval reviews on selected loans and routinely perform independent internal loan reviews of our loan portfolio to confirm credit quality, proper documentation and compliance with laws and regulations. Loan repayments are considered one of the primary sources of funding for the Company.

Commercial Business Lending

At December 31, 2025, we had $3.91 billion, or 81.7% of our loans receivable, in commercial business loans. We offer different types of commercial business loans, including lines of credit, term equipment financing and term owner-occupied and non-owner occupied CRE loans. We also originate loans that are guaranteed by the U.S. SBA, for which the Bank is a “preferred lender,” the USDA and the Federal Agricultural Mortgage Corporation. Before extending credit to a business, we review and analyze the borrower’s management ability, financial history, including cash flow of the borrower and all guarantors, and anticipated liquidation value of the collateral. Emphasis is placed on having a comprehensive understanding of the borrower’s global cash flow and performing necessary financial due diligence.

We originate CRE loans within our primary market areas, with a focus on loans secured by owner-occupied properties. Our underwriting standards require that non-owner occupied and owner-occupied CRE loans not exceed 75% and 80%, respectively, of the lower of appraised value at origination or cost of the underlying collateral. Cash flow debt coverage covenant requirements typically range from 1.15 times to 1.25 times, depending on the type of property. Actual debt service coverage is usually higher than required covenant thresholds, as loan sizing requires sensitized coverage using an "underwriting" interest rate that is higher than the note rate.

CRE loans typically involve a greater degree of risk than residential real estate loans. Payments on loans secured by CRE properties are dependent on successful operation and management of the properties and repayment of these loans may be affected by adverse conditions in the real estate market or the broader economy. We seek to minimize these risks by determining the financial condition of the borrower and any tenants, the quality and value of the collateral and the strength of management of the property securing the loan. We also generally obtain personal guarantees from the owners of the collateral after a thorough review of personal financial statements. In addition, we reviewed over 65% of our CRE loan portfolio during the year ended December 31, 2025 for various performance related criteria and stress-test loans for potential changes in interest rates, occupancy and collateral values.

The Company may enter into non-hedging interest rate swap contracts with commercial customers to accommodate their business needs. For additional information, see Note (7) Derivative Financial Instruments of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8. Financial Statements And Supplementary Data of this Form 10-K.

Real Estate Construction and Land Development

At December 31, 2025, we had $343.3 million, or 7.2% of our loans receivable, in real estate construction and land development loans, including residential construction loans and commercial and multifamily construction loans.

We originate residential construction loans to builders for the construction of pre-sold homes and speculative residential properties. Because of the higher risks present in the residential construction industry, our lending to builders is limited to those who have demonstrated a favorable record of performance and who are building in markets that our management understands. We further endeavor to limit our construction lending risk through adherence to strict underwriting guidelines and procedures. Speculative construction loans are short term in nature and have a variable rate of interest. We require builders to have tangible equity in each construction project, have prompt and thorough documentation of all draw requests and permit us to inspect the project prior to paying any draw requests.

Commercial and multifamily construction loans also have a higher risk because of the construction element and lease-up elements, if such properties are not pre-leased. As a result, this type of construction loan is made only to strong borrowers with sufficient equity into the project and additional resources they can draw on if needed. The Company performs due diligence to gain comfort that the experience of the general contractor is sufficient to finish the project on budget and on time. Project feasibility is also important and our lenders ensure the project is economically viable. Commercial and multifamily construction loans are monitored through cost reviews, regulatory-compliant appraisals, sufficient equity, engineering inspections and controlled disbursements.

Residential Real Estate Loans, Originations and Sales

At December 31, 2025, residential real estate loans totaled $358.8 million, or 7.5% of our loans receivable. The majority of our residential real estate loans are secured by single-family residences located in our primary market areas. Our underwriting standards require that residential real estate loans generally are owner-occupied and do not exceed 80% of the lower of appraised value at origination or cost of the underlying collateral. Terms typically range from 15 to 30 years. As part of our asset/liability management strategy, we have historically sold originated residential real estate loans in the secondary market with no recourse and servicing released. In January 2024, we ceased the origination of residential real estate loans. We have and may buy pools of mortgage loans or otherwise acquire mortgage loans from other originators.

Consumer

At December 31, 2025, we had $170.4 million, or 3.6% of our loans receivable, in consumer loans. We originate consumer loans and lines of credit that are both secured and unsecured.

For additional information, see Item 1A. Risk Factors—Credit Risks this Form 10-K.

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Supervision and Regulation

General

FDIC-insured banking institutions, like the Bank, their holding companies and affiliates are extensively regulated under federal and state law. As a result, our growth and earnings performance may be affected not only by management decisions and general economic conditions, but also by the requirements of federal and state statutes and by the regulations and policies of various banking agencies, including the DFI, the Federal Reserve, the FDIC and federal and state consumer financial protection agencies. Furthermore, taxation laws administered by the Internal Revenue Service and state taxing authorities, accounting rules developed by the FASB and PCAOB, securities laws administered by the SEC and state securities authorities and anti-money laundering and sanctions laws enforced by the U.S. Department of the Treasury (“Treasury”) have an impact on our business. The effect of these statutes, regulations, regulatory policies and accounting rules are significant to our operations and results.

Federal and state banking laws impose a comprehensive system of supervision, regulation and enforcement on the operations of FDIC-insured institutions, their holding companies and affiliates that is intended primarily for the protection of the FDIC-insured deposits and depositors of banks, rather than shareholders. These laws, and the regulations of the banking agencies issued under them, affect, among other things, the scope of our business, the kinds and amounts of investments that the Company and the Bank may make, required capital levels relative to assets, the nature and amount of collateral for loans, the establishment of branches, the ability of the Company or the Bank to merge, consolidate and acquire, dealings with our insiders and affiliates and the payment of dividends.

In response to the global financial crisis and particularly following the passage of the Dodd-Frank Act, we experienced heightened regulatory requirements and scrutiny. Although the reforms primarily targeted large banking organizations and systemically important financial institutions, their influence filtered down in varying degrees to community banks over time and caused our compliance and risk management processes, and the costs thereof, to increase. The Economic Growth Act eliminated questions about the applicability of certain Dodd-Frank Act reforms to community banking organizations, including relieving us of any requirement to engage in mandatory stress tests, maintain a risk committee or comply with the Volcker Rule’s complicated prohibitions on proprietary trading and ownership of private funds.

Over the past year, the federal banking agencies have continued efforts to reduce regulatory burden on banking organizations, including community banks, through various supervisory, regulatory and policy initiatives. These efforts have included the rescission or revision of certain rulemakings and proposals, initiatives to streamline examination and application processes and efforts to increase transparency and consistency in supervisory expectations. Congress also has considered additional measures aimed at easing specific compliance obligations for community banks, although no reforms comparable in scope to the Economic Growth Act have been enacted to date. These developments may be favorable to the operations of the Company or the Bank; however, future changes in laws, regulations, or supervisory priorities and their impacts on the Company’s or the Bank’s business, remain uncertain.

The supervisory framework applicable to U.S. banking organizations subjects banks and bank holding companies to regular examination by their respective banking agencies. These examinations result in confidential examination reports and supervisory ratings that may impact an institution’s operations, capital levels, growth and strategic initiatives. Examinations consider not only compliance with applicable laws and regulations, but also capital levels, asset quality, management ability and performance, earnings, liquidity and overall risk profile, among other things. The banking agencies generally have broad discretion to impose restrictions and limitations on the operations of a regulated entity where the agencies determine that such operations are unsafe or unsound, violate applicable law or are otherwise inconsistent with laws and regulations. Changes in supervisory approach or emphasis may materially affect the operations and financial results of the Company and the Bank, as well as the banking industry in general. In recent supervisory communications, rulemakings and policy statements, federal banking agencies have indicated an increased focus on core, material financial risks (rather than risk management processes), greater transparency in supervisory expectations and efforts to reduce examination burden, particularly for community banks. For example, the FDIC, the Bank’s primary federal regulator, has proposed or implemented initiatives: (i) to clarify standards for unsafe or unsound practices; (ii) to enhance supervisory appeals processes; (iii) to streamline examination procedures; and (iv) to revise standards governing the termination of enforcement actions. These initiatives may enable management to focus more effectively on growth opportunities and the management of material financial risks.

The following is a summary of the material elements of the supervisory and regulatory framework applicable to the Company and the Bank. It does not describe all of the statutes, regulations and regulatory policies that apply, nor does it restate all of the requirements of those that are described. The descriptions are qualified in their entirety by reference to the particular statutory and regulatory provision.

The Role of Capital

Regulatory capital represents the net assets of a banking organization available to absorb losses. FDIC-insured institutions, such as banks, as well as their holding companies (i.e., banking organizations) are required to hold more capital than other businesses, which directly affects our earnings capabilities. Although capital has historically been one of the key measures of the financial health of both bank holding companies and banks, its role became fundamentally more important in the wake of the global financial crisis, as the banking regulators recognized that the amount and quality of capital held by banking organizations prior to that crisis was insufficient to absorb losses during periods of severe stress.

Capital Levels. Banking organizations have been required to hold minimum levels of capital based on guidelines established by the banking agencies since 1983. The minimums have been expressed in terms of ratios of “capital” divided by “total assets.”

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Beginning in 1989, the capital guidelines for U.S. banking organizations have been based upon international capital accords (known as the “Basel” accords) adopted by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision, a committee of central banks and bank supervisors that acts as the primary global standard-setter for prudential regulation, as interpreted and implemented by the U.S. federal banking agencies on an interagency basis. These accords recognized that bank assets for the purpose of the capital ratio calculations needed to be risk weighted (the theory being that riskier assets should require more capital) and that off-balance sheet exposures needed to be factored in the calculations. Following the global financial crisis, the Group of Governors and Heads of Supervision, the oversight body of the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision, announced agreement on a strengthened set of capital requirements for banking organizations around the world, known as the Basel III accords, to address deficiencies recognized in connection with the global financial crisis.

The Basel III Rule. The U.S. federal bank regulatory agencies adopted the U.S. Basel III regulatory capital reforms, and, at the same time, effected changes required by the Dodd-Frank Act, in regulations that were effective in 2015 (with certain phase-ins) (the “Basel III Rule”). The Basel III Rule established capital standards for banking organizations that are meaningfully more stringent than those established previously and are still in effect today. The Basel III Rule is applicable to all banking organizations that are subject to minimum capital requirements, including national banks, state banks and savings and loan associations, as well as to most bank and savings and loan holding companies. The Company and the Bank are each subject to the Basel III Rule.

Risk-Weighting Assets. Three of the required capital ratios imposed under the Basel III Rule, as discussed immediately below, are calculated using a denominator of total “risk-weighted” assets. In the calculation of so-called “risk weights,” which was introduced in the Basel I accord, bank assets were divided into four basic risk-weighted categories of 0%, 20%, 50% and 100%. The Basel III accords required a more complex, detailed and calibrated assessment of risk in the calculation of risk weightings. Although it uses the same technique introduced by the Basel I accord in assigning assets to risk-weight categories, it significantly increases the number of categories and adds conditions to the assignment of certain risk weights. Risk weights were established as high as 250% for certain commercial real estate exposures, and higher for certain derivatives.

The assignment of risk weights is likely to continue to be under review by the federal banking agencies as they seek to implement certain remaining elements of the Basel III accords. Previously, in 2023, the federal banking agencies proposed a “Basel III Endgame Rule” to complete this implementation process; however, the proposal was not adopted, in part due to stakeholder concerns regarding potential economic impacts, data transparency and the alignment of certain provisions with statutory tailoring requirements. Based on public statements from federal agency officials, it is anticipated that a revised proposal may be issued in the future. Any re-proposal of the Basel III Endgame Rule is expected to primarily affect large, complex banking organizations.

Minimum Capital Ratios. The Basel III Rule also increased the required quantity and quality of capital. Not only did it increase most of the required minimum capital ratios in effect prior to January 1, 2015, but, by requiring that capital instruments be of higher quality to absorb loss, it introduced the concept of Common Equity Tier 1 Capital (“CET1”), which consists primarily of common stock, related surplus (net of Treasury stock), retained earnings and CET1 minority interests, subject to certain regulatory adjustments and deductions. The Basel III Rule also changed the definition of regulatory capital by establishing more stringent criteria for instruments to qualify as Additional Tier 1 Capital (primarily non-cumulative perpetual preferred stock that meets certain requirements) and Tier 2 Capital (primarily other types of preferred stock and subordinated debt, subject to limitations). In addition, the Basel III Rule limited the inclusion of minority interests, mortgage-servicing assets and deferred tax assets in regulatory capital and required deductions from CET1 if such assets exceeded prescribed thresholds.

The Basel III Rule requires banking organizations to maintain minimum capital ratios to be deemed “adequately capitalized” as follows:

•A ratio of CET1 equal to 4.5% of risk-weighted assets;

•A ratio of Tier 1 Capital equal to 6% of risk-weighted assets;

•A ratio of Total Capital (Tier 1 plus Tier 2 Capital) equal to 8% of risk-weighted assets; and

•A leverage ratio of Tier 1 Capital to total quarterly average assets equal to 4% of risk-weighted assets in all circumstances.

In addition, banking organizations that want to make capital distributions (including dividends and share repurchases) and pay discretionary bonuses to executive officers without restriction must maintain 2.5% in CET1 in the form of a capital conservation buffer. The purpose of the conservation buffer is to ensure that banking organizations maintain a cushion of capital that can be used to absorb losses during periods of financial and economic stress. Factoring in the capital conservation buffer increases the minimum ratios described above to 7% for CET1, 8.5% for Tier 1 Capital and 10.5% for Total Capital.

Well Capitalized Requirements. The ratios described above represent minimum standards for banking organizations to be considered “adequately capitalized.” Banking agencies uniformly encourage banking organizations to maintain capital levels above these minimums and to be classified as “well capitalized.” To that end, federal law and regulations provide various incentives for banking organizations to maintain regulatory capital in excess of minimum regulatory requirements. For example, a well capitalized banking organization may: (i) qualify for exemptions from prior notice or application requirements otherwise applicable to certain activities; (ii) receive expedited processing of other required notices or applications; and (iii) accept, roll-over or renew brokered deposits. In addition, the banking agencies may require higher capital levels where warranted by a banking organization’s particular operating circumstances or risk profiles. For example, the Federal Reserve’s capital guidelines contemplate that additional capital may be required to take adequate account of, among other things, interest rate risk, or the risks posed by concentrations of credit, nontraditional activities or securities trading activities. Further, any banking organization experiencing or anticipating significant growth would be expected to maintain capital ratios, including tangible capital positions (i.e., Tier 1 Capital less all intangible assets), well above the minimum regulatory levels.

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Under the capital regulations of the Federal Reserve for the Company and the FDIC for the Bank, in order to be well capitalized, a banking organization, like the Company and the Bank, must maintain:

•A CET1 ratio to risk-weighted assets of 6.5% or more;

•A ratio of Tier 1 Capital to total risk-weighted assets of 8% or more;

•A ratio of Total Capital to total risk-weighted assets of 10% or more; and

•A leverage ratio of Tier 1 Capital to total adjusted average quarterly assets of 5% or greater.

Under the Basel III Rule, a banking organization may be considered “well capitalized,” while not complying with the capital conservation buffer described above.

As of December 31, 2025: (i) the Bank was not subject to a directive from the FDIC or the DFI to increase its capital; and (ii) the Bank was well capitalized, as defined by FDIC regulations. As of December 31, 2025, the Company had regulatory capital in excess of the Federal Reserve’s requirements and met the Basel III Rule requirements to be well capitalized. As of December 31, 2025, the Company and the Bank also were in compliance with the capital conservation buffer.

Prompt Corrective Action. The concept of a banking organization being “adequately capitalized” or “well capitalized” is part of a regulatory enforcement regime that provides the federal banking agencies with broad power to take “prompt corrective action” to resolve the problems of depository institutions based on the capital level of each particular institution. The extent of the banking agencies’ powers depends on whether the institution in question is “adequately capitalized,” “undercapitalized,” “significantly undercapitalized” or “critically undercapitalized,” in each case as defined by regulation. Depending upon the capital category to which a banking organization is assigned, the banking agencies’ corrective powers include: (i) requiring the institution to submit a capital restoration plan; (ii) limiting the institution’s asset growth and restricting its activities; (iii) requiring the institution to issue additional capital stock (including additional voting stock) or to sell itself; (iv) restricting transactions between the institution and its affiliates; (v) restricting the interest rate that the institution may pay on deposits; (vi) ordering a new election of directors of the institution; (vii) requiring that senior executive officers or directors be dismissed; (viii) prohibiting the institution from accepting deposits from correspondent banks; (ix) requiring the institution to divest certain subsidiaries; (x) prohibiting the payment of principal or interest on subordinated debt; and (xi) ultimately, appointing a receiver for the institution.

Community Bank Capital Simplification. Community banking organizations have long raised concerns with federal banking agencies about the regulatory burden, complexity and costs associated with certain provisions of the Basel III Rule. In response, the Congress provided an “off-ramp” for institutions, like us, with total consolidated assets of less than $10 billion as part of the Economic Growth Act. Section 201 of the Economic Growth Act specifically instructed the federal banking regulators to establish a single “Community Bank Leverage Ratio” (“CBLR”) of between 8% and 10%. Under the final rule, a community banking organization is eligible to elect to comply with its capital requirements under the CBLR framework if it has: (i) less than $10 billion in total consolidated assets; (ii) limited amounts of certain assets and off-balance sheet exposures; and (iii) a CBLR greater than 9%. In late 2025, the federal banking agencies proposed changes to the CBLR framework intended to encourage broader adoption, including reducing the required leverage ratio from 9.0% to 8.0%; however, the proposal has not yet been finalized. We may elect the CBLR framework at any time, but have not elected to use the CBLR framework as of December 31, 2025.

Supervision and Regulation of the Company

General. The Company, as the sole shareholder of the Bank, is a bank holding company. As a bank holding company, we are registered with, and subject to regulation, supervision and enforcement by, the Federal Reserve under the BHCA. We are legally obligated to act as a source of financial and managerial strength to the Bank and to commit resources to support the Bank in circumstances where we might not otherwise do so. Under the BHCA, we are subject to periodic examination by the Federal Reserve and are required to file with the Federal Reserve periodic reports of our operations and such additional information regarding us and the Bank as the Federal Reserve may require.

Acquisitions and Activities. The primary purpose of a bank holding company is to control and manage banks. The BHCA generally requires the prior approval of the Federal Reserve for any merger involving a bank holding company or any acquisition by a bank holding company of another bank or bank holding company. Pursuant to the BHCA and the Dodd-Frank Act, the Federal Reserve may permit a well capitalized and well managed bank holding company to acquire banks located in any U.S. state, subject to federal deposit concentration limits, applicable nondiscriminatory state deposit-cap laws and state minimum existence requirements for target banks (not exceeding five years).

The BHCA generally prohibits us from acquiring direct or indirect ownership or control of more than 5% of the outstanding voting shares of any nonbanking entity, and from engaging in any business other than that of banking, managing and controlling banks or furnishing services to banks and their subsidiaries. This general prohibition is subject to a number of exceptions. The principal exception allows bank holding companies to engage in, and to own shares of companies engaged in, certain businesses found by the Federal Reserve prior to November 11, 1999 to be “so closely related to banking... as to be a proper incident thereto.” This authority permits the Company to engage in a variety of banking-related businesses, including, among other things, the ownership and operation of a savings association, or any entity engaged in consumer finance, equipment leasing, the operation of a computer service bureau (including software development) and mortgage banking and brokerage services. The BHCA does not place formal territorial restrictions on the domestic activities of nonbank subsidiaries of bank holding companies. In addition to approval from the Federal Reserve, prior approval for the establishment or acquisition of nonbank subsidiaries of a bank holding company may be required from other agencies, such as the DFI or other agencies that regulate such nonbank entity.

Financial Holding Company Election. Bank holding companies that meet certain eligibility requirements and elect to operate as financial holding companies may engage in, or own shares in companies engaged in, a wider range of nonbanking activities, including securities and insurance underwriting and sales, merchant banking and any other activity that: (i) the Federal Reserve, in consultation with the Secretary of the Treasury, determines by regulation or order is financial in nature or incidental to any such

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financial activity; or (ii) the Federal Reserve determines by order to be complementary to any such financial activity, as long as the activity does not pose a substantial risk to the safety or soundness of FDIC-insured institutions or the financial system generally. We have not currently elected to operate as a financial holding company.

Change in Control. Federal law prohibits any person or company from acquiring “control” of an FDIC-insured depository institution or its holding company without prior notice to the appropriate federal bank agencies. “Control” is conclusively determined to exist upon the acquisition of 25% or more of the outstanding voting securities of a bank or bank holding company, but may be presumed to arise under certain circumstances between 10% and 24.99% ownership.

Capital Requirements. We are required to maintain consolidated capital in accordance with Federal Reserve capital adequacy requirements. For a discussion of capital requirements, see “–The Role of Capital” above.

Dividend Payments. Our ability to pay dividends to our shareholders may be affected by both general corporate law considerations and policies of the Federal Reserve applicable to bank holding companies. As a Washington corporation, we are subject to the limitations of the Washington Business Corporation Act, which generally prohibits the payment of dividends or other distributions if, after giving effect to the distribution, (i) the Company would not be able to pay its debts as they become due in the usual course of business, or (ii) the Company’s total assets would be less than the sum of its total liabilities plus any amounts needed to satisfy preferential rights upon dissolution.

As a general matter, the Federal Reserve has indicated that the board of directors of a bank holding company should eliminate, defer or significantly reduce dividends to shareholders if: (i) the company’s net income available to shareholders for the past four quarters, net of dividends previously paid during that period, is not sufficient to fully fund the dividends; (ii) the prospective rate of earnings retention is inconsistent with the company’s capital needs and overall current and prospective financial condition; or (iii) the company will not meet, or is in danger of not meeting, its minimum regulatory capital adequacy ratios. The Federal Reserve also possesses enforcement powers over bank holding companies and their nonbank subsidiaries to prevent or remedy actions that represent unsafe or unsound practices or violations of applicable statutes and regulations. Among these powers is the ability to proscribe the payment of dividends by banks and bank holding companies. Finally, the Basel III Rule imposes consolidated capital requirements on banking organizations. As a result, banking organizations must hold a capital conservation buffer of 2.5% of risk-weighted assets in CET1 above the minimum risk-based capital requirements to avoid regulatory limits on dividends and other capital distributions. See “–The Role of Capital” above.

Monetary Policy. The monetary policy of the Federal Reserve has a significant effect on the operating results of bank holding companies and their subsidiaries. Among the tools available to the Federal Reserve to affect the money supply are open market transactions in U.S. government securities and changes in the discount rate on bank borrowings. These means are used in varying combinations to influence overall growth and distribution of bank loans, investments and deposits, and their use may affect interest rates charged on loans or paid on deposits, which may impact our business and the operations of the Company and the Bank.

Federal Securities Regulation. Our common stock is registered with the SEC under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the Exchange Act. Consequently, we are subject to the information, proxy solicitation, insider trading and other restrictions and requirements of the SEC under the Exchange Act.

Corporate Governance/Incentive Compensation. The Dodd-Frank Act addressed many investor protection, corporate governance and executive compensation matters that affect most U.S. publicly traded companies. It increased shareholder influence over boards of directors by requiring companies to give shareholders a nonbinding vote on executive compensation and so-called “golden parachute” payments, and authorizing the SEC to promulgate rules that would allow shareholders to nominate and solicit voters for their own candidates using a company’s proxy materials.

The Dodd-Frank Act also directed the Federal Reserve, in coordination with other federal banking and financial services agencies, to promulgate rules prohibiting excessive incentive-based compensation paid to executives of bank holding companies, regardless of whether such companies are publicly traded. Although several agencies have made repeated efforts to implement rules under this provision of the Dodd-Frank Act—including a proposal issued most recently in May 2024, which was subsequently withdrawn—no final rule has been adopted at this time. Nevertheless, the federal banking agencies have issued interagency guidance on sound incentive compensation practices for banking organizations, reflecting the agencies’ recognition that incentive compensation practices in the financial industry were among the factors contributing to the global financial crisis. The interagency guidance recognizes three core principles for effective incentive compensation plans: (i) appropriately balancing risk and reward; (ii) compatibility with effective controls and risk management; and (iii) support by strong corporate governance, including active and effective oversight by the organization’s board of directors. Although much of the guidance is directed at large banking organizations that are expected to maintain systematic and formalized policies and procedures, smaller banking organizations like us are expected to implement less extensive and less formalized systems pursuant to the guidance.

Supervision and Regulation of the Bank

General. The Bank is a Washington state-chartered, nonmember bank. The deposit accounts of the Bank are insured by the FDIC’s Deposit Insurance Fund (“DIF”) to the maximum extent provided under federal law and FDIC regulations, currently $250,000 per insured depositor, per ownership category. Ongoing policy discussions at the federal level have focused on potential changes to deposit insurance coverage, including possible adjustments to coverage limits, although no changes have been enacted.

As a Washington state-chartered FDIC-insured bank, the Bank is subject to the examination, supervision, reporting and enforcement requirements of the DFI, its chartering authority, and the FDIC, designated by federal law as the primary federal regulator of insured state banks that, like the Bank, are not members of the Federal Reserve System.

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Deposit Insurance Assessments. As an FDIC-insured institution, the Bank is required to pay deposit insurance premium assessments to the FDIC. The FDIC has adopted a risk-based assessment system whereby FDIC-insured institutions pay insurance premiums at rates based on their risk classification. For institutions like the Bank that are not considered large and highly complex banking organizations, the risk-based assessment is based on examination ratings and financial ratios. The total base assessment rates, effective as of January 1, 2023, generally range from 2.5 basis points (for the lowest risk institutions) to 32 basis points or beyond (for higher risk institutions). However, the maximum rate is 18 basis points for FDIC-insured institutions in the top two categories of examination composite ratings.

At least semi-annually, the FDIC updates its loss and income projections for the DIF and, if needed, increases or decreases the assessment rates, following notice and comment on proposed rulemaking. For this purpose, the reserve ratio is the DIF balance divided by estimated insured deposits. In response to the global financial crisis, the Dodd-Frank Act increased the minimum reserve ratio from 1.15% to 1.35% of the estimated amount of total insured deposits. In its May 2025 report, the FDIC stated that the reserve ratio likely will reach the statutory minimum by the September 30, 2028 deadline and that no adjustments to the base assessment rates are currently projected.

In addition, because the cost of the failures of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank to the DIF attributable to the systemic risk exception was approximately $16.7 billion, the FDIC adopted a special assessment for banking organizations with assets of $5 billion or more. The FDIC has been collecting the special assessment over eight quarters, at a quarterly rate of 3.36 basis points for the initial seven quarters of the collection period (ending on December 30, 2025) and at a quarterly rate of 2.97 basis points for the eighth and final collection period. The quarterly special assessment rate is applied to the special assessment base equal to an FDIC-insured institution’s estimated uninsured deposits reported for the December 31, 2022 reporting period, adjusted to exclude the first $5 billion in estimated uninsured deposits of the institution. Although the Company and the Bank are subject to the FDIC’s special assessment as a banking organization with assets of $5 billion or more, the Company does not have to pay the special assessment based on its amount of uninsured deposits.

Supervisory Assessments. All Washington banks are required to pay supervisory assessments to the DFI to fund the operations of that agency as well as other examination fees. The amount of the assessment is calculated on the basis of the Bank’s total assets. During the year ended December 31, 2025, the Bank paid supervisory assessments to the DFI totaling approximately $235,000.

Capital Requirements. Banks are generally required to maintain capital levels in excess of other businesses. For a discussion of capital requirements, see “–The Role of Capital” above.

Liquidity Requirements. Liquidity is a measure of the ability and ease with which bank assets may be converted to meet financial obligations, such as deposits or other funding sources. Banks are required to implement liquidity risk management frameworks that ensure they maintain sufficient liquidity, including a cushion of unencumbered, high-quality liquid assets, to withstand a range of stress events. The level and speed of deposit outflows contributing to the failures of Silicon Valley Bank, Signature Bank and First Republic Bank in 2023 was unprecedented, and contributed to acute liquidity and funding strain, underscoring the importance of liquidity risk management and contingency funding planning by insured depository institutions like the Bank, as highlighted in a 2023 addendum to existing interagency guidance on funding and liquidity risk management.

The primary role of liquidity risk management is to: (i) prospectively assess the need for funds to meet obligations; and (ii) ensure the availability of cash or collateral to fulfill those needs at the appropriate time by coordinating the various sources of funds available to the institution under normal and stressed conditions. The Basel III Rule includes a liquidity framework that requires the largest insured institutions to measure their liquidity against specific liquidity tests. One test, referred to as the Liquidity Coverage Ratio, is designed to ensure that the banking organization has an adequate stock of unencumbered high-quality liquid assets that can be converted easily and immediately in private markets into cash to meet liquidity needs for a 30-calendar day liquidity stress scenario. The other test, known as the Net Stable Funding Ratio, is designed to promote more medium- and long-term funding of the assets and activities of FDIC-insured institutions over a one-year horizon. These tests provide an incentive for banks and holding companies to increase their holdings in Treasury securities and other sovereign debt as a component of assets, increase the use of long-term debt as a funding source and rely on stable funding like core deposits (in lieu of brokered deposits).

Although these tests do not apply to the Bank, we continue to review our liquidity risk management policies in light of regulatory requirements and industry developments.

Dividend Payments. The Bank pays dividends to the Company. Under the Washington Commercial Bank Act, Washington state-chartered banks may not declare or pay any dividend in an amount greater than its retained earnings, without approval from the DFI. Under the prompt corrective action requirements, the payment of dividends by any FDIC-insured institution is affected by the requirement to maintain adequate capital pursuant to applicable capital adequacy guidelines and regulations, and an FDIC-insured institution generally is prohibited from paying any dividends if, following payment thereof, the institution would be undercapitalized. As described above, the Bank exceeded its capital requirements under applicable guidelines as of December 31, 2025. Notwithstanding the availability of funds for dividends, however, the FDIC and the DFI may prohibit the payment of dividends by the Bank if either agency determines that such payment would constitute an unsafe or unsound practice. In addition, under the Basel III Rule, banking organizations that want to pay unrestricted dividends must maintain 2.5% in CET1 attributable to the capital conservation buffer. See “–The Role of Capital” above.

State Bank Investments, Activities and Acquisitions. The Bank is permitted to make investments and engage in activities directly or through subsidiaries as authorized under Washington law. However, under federal law and FDIC regulations, FDIC-insured state banks are prohibited, subject to certain exceptions, from making or retaining equity investments that are not permissible for a national bank. Federal law and FDIC regulations also prohibit FDIC-insured state banks and their subsidiaries from engaging

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as principal in any activity that is not permitted for a national bank unless they meet, and continue to meet, minimum regulatory capital requirements and the FDIC determines that the activity would not pose a significant risk to the DIF. These restrictions have not had, and are not currently expected to have, a material impact on the operations of the Bank.

The Bank may be required to obtain approval from the DFI, the FDIC and other applicable banking or financial services agencies before engaging in certain acquisitions or mergers under applicable state and federal law. With respect to interstate merger and acquisitions, federal law permits state banks to merge with out-of-state banks subject to: (i) regulatory approval; (ii) federal and state deposit concentration limits; and (iii) state law requirements that the merging bank has been in existence for a minimum period of time (not to exceed five years), prior to the merger. In 2025, the federal banking agencies rescinded certain prior administrative actions regarding the review and approval of mergers and acquisitions, with the intent of streamlining and expediting the regulatory review of certain merger and acquisition applications.

Branching Authority. Washington state-chartered banks, such as the Bank, have the authority under the Washington Commercial Bank Act to establish branches anywhere in the State of Washington, subject to receipt of approval from the DFI and FDIC, as applicable. The Dodd-Frank Act further permits well capitalized and well managed banks to establish new interstate branches or to acquire individual branches of a bank in another state (rather than the acquisition of an out-of-state bank in its entirety) without impediments.

Affiliate and Insider Transactions. The Bank is subject to certain restrictions imposed by federal law on “covered transactions” between the Bank and its “affiliates.” The Company is an affiliate of the Bank for purposes of these restrictions. Covered transactions subject to these restrictions include extensions of credit to the Company, investments in the stock or other securities of the Company and the acceptance of the stock or other securities of the Company as collateral for loans made by the Bank. The Dodd-Frank Act enhanced these requirements by expanding the definition of “covered transactions” and extending the period for which collateral requirements for such transactions must be maintained.

Certain limitations and reporting requirements also apply to extensions of credit by the Bank to its directors and officers, to directors and officers of the Company and its subsidiaries, to principal shareholders of the Company and to “related interests” of such directors, officers and principal shareholders under state and federal law. In addition, federal law and regulations may govern the terms on which any person who is a director or officer of the Company or the Bank, or a principal shareholder of the Company, may obtain credit from banks with which the Bank maintains a correspondent relationship.

Safety and Soundness Standards/Risk Management. The federal banking agencies have adopted operational and managerial standards to promote the safety and soundness of FDIC-insured institutions. The standards apply to internal controls, information systems, internal audit systems, loan documentation, credit underwriting, interest rate exposure, asset growth, compensation, fees and benefits, asset quality and earnings. These standards generally prescribe the goals to be achieved in each area, and each institution is responsible for establishing its own procedures to achieve those goals.

Although regulatory standards do not have the force of law, if an institution operates in an unsafe and unsound manner, its primary federal regulator may require the submission of a plan to achieve and maintain compliance. Failure to submit an acceptable compliance plan, or to implement an approved plan in any material respect may result in formal agency orders directing the institution to cure the deficiencies. Until such deficiencies are resolved, the agency may restrict the institution’s rate of growth, require additional capital, limit deposit rates, or take other corrective action as deemed appropriate. Noncompliance with safety and soundness principles may also constitute grounds for other enforcement action by the federal banking agencies, including cease and desist orders and civil money penalty assessments.

The federal banking agencies have emphasized the importance of sound risk management processes and strong internal controls when evaluating the activities of the FDIC-insured institutions. In 2025, however, the agencies signaled a shift toward focusing on the identification and management of material financial risks, rather than primarily on adherence to prescriptive operational processes. Although effective risk management, internal controls, and board and management oversight remain important, supervisory attention may increasingly center on whether specific practices pose material harm to the institution’s financial condition or create a risk of loss to the DIF. Despite this potential shift in focus, the agencies continue to evaluate a broad spectrum of risks—including credit, market, liquidity, operational, and legal risks—emphasizing their potential impact on safety and soundness. Notably, the federal banking agencies have indicated that they intend to remove reputation risk from consideration, citing concerns about its use in restricting banking services to certain industries or groups.

The Bank is expected to have active board and senior management oversight; adequate policies, procedures and limits; adequate risk measurement, monitoring and management information systems; and comprehensive internal controls. The federal banking agencies also have released specific risk management guidance on certain topics, including third-party relationships, in response to the proliferation of relationships between banking organizations and financial technology companies (although the guidance applies more broadly).

Privacy and Cybersecurity. The Bank is subject to numerous U.S. federal and state laws and regulations aimed at protecting non-public, confidential information of its customers. These laws require the Bank to periodically disclose its privacy policies and practices regarding the sharing of non-public customer information, and in certain circumstances, permit consumers to opt out of the sharing of information with unaffiliated third parties. They also limit the Bank’s ability to share certain information with affiliates and non-affiliates for marketing or nonmarketing purposes. In addition, the Bank is required to implement a comprehensive information security program that includes administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to ensure the security and confidentiality of customer records and information. These security and privacy policies and procedures are applied consistently across all businesses and geographic locations.

The Bank and the Company also are subject to a number of federal and state laws and regulations requiring notifications and disclosures regarding certain cybersecurity incidents. In addition, the Bank must consider and address cybersecurity risks as part

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of its risk management processes, including implementing and maintaining appropriate safeguards, monitoring and testing systems, and overseeing the cybersecurity practices of its service providers. Regulatory guidance emphasizes that cybersecurity should be integrated into overall enterprise risk management and business continuity planning.

Federal Home Loan Bank System. The Bank is a member of an FHLB, which serves as a central credit facility for its members. The FHLB is funded primarily from proceeds from the sale of obligations of the FHLB system. It makes loans to member banks in the form of FHLB advances. All advances from the FHLB are required to be fully collateralized, as determined by the FHLB.

Community Reinvestment Act Requirements. The CRA imposes on the Bank a continuing and affirmative obligation, consistent with safe and sound operations, to help meet the credit needs of the entire community, including low- and moderate-income neighborhoods. The FDIC regularly assesses the Bank’s record of meeting these credit needs through periodic CRA examinations. The Bank’s CRA ratings derived from these examinations can have significant impacts on the activities in which the Bank and the Company may engage. For example, a low CRA rating may impact the review of applications for acquisitions by the Bank.

In 2023, the federal banking agencies issued a final rule intended to strengthen and modernize the CRA regulations (the “CRA Rule”). The CRA Rule was subsequently challenged in court, which prevented it from taking effect. In 2025, the federal banking agencies issued a proposed rule to rescind the CRA Rule and reinstate the prior CRA regulatory framework adopted in 1995. Additionally, the FDIC is lengthening the period between CRA examinations for certain banks with less than $3 billion in assets; however, this change is not expected to impact the Bank, which has more than $3 billion in total assets.

Washington has a state law analogous to the federal CRA, which imposes an affirmative obligation on Washington state‑chartered banks, including the Bank, to help meet the credit, lending, and investment needs of their local communities. The law is enforced by the DFI, which evaluates banks’ performance in meeting community needs, often considering federal data and materials provided in connection with federal CRA examinations, while also applying state‑specific criteria.

Anti-Money Laundering/Countering the Financing of Terrorism/Sanctions. The Bank Secrecy Act (“BSA”) is a U.S. federal statutory framework, as amended and supplemented by subsequent laws and implemented through regulations, which is designed to combat money laundering, the financing of terrorism and other illicit financial activity. The BSA and related anti-money laundering/countering the financing of terrorism (“AML/CFT”) laws and regulations are intended to prevent terrorists and criminals from accessing the U.S. financial system and have significant implications for FDIC-insured institutions and other businesses involved in the transmission of funds. Together, this regulatory framework provides a foundation to promote financial transparency and deter and detect efforts to misuse the U.S. financial system to launder criminal proceeds, finance terrorist acts, or facilitate other illicit conduct. The BSA and related regulations require financial institutions to establish and maintain policies and procedures for addressing: (i) customer identification and due diligence; (ii) the prevention and detection of money laundering and terrorist financing; (iii) the identification and reporting of suspicious activities and certain currency transactions; (iv) compliance with laws relating to currency crimes; and (v) cooperation with law enforcement authorities. The Bank also must comply with stringent economic and trade sanctions regimes administered and enforced by the Office of Foreign Assets Control.

Although core AML/CFT statutory requirements and expectations remain unchanged, certain of the federal banking agencies and the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) have recently pursued or considered efforts to modernize and streamline AML/CFT compliance through a more risk-based approach, including targeted regulatory relief, revised examination expectations and efforts to reduce certain compliance burden, particularly for lower-risk and community banking organizations.

Concentrations in Commercial Real Estate. Concentration risk exists when FDIC-insured institutions allocate a disproportionate amount of assets to a single industry or economic segment. Concentration in CRE lending is one area of regulatory focus. The interagency Concentrations in Commercial Real Estate Lending, Sound Risk Management Practices guidance (“CRE Guidance”) provides supervisory criteria, including the following numerical indicators, to assist bank examiners in identifying banks with potentially significant CRE loan concentrations that may warrant greater supervisory scrutiny. These indicators include: (i) total CRE loans exceeding 300% of capital and increasing 50% or more in the preceding three years; or (ii) construction and land development loans exceeding 100% of capital.

The CRE Guidance does not establish binding limits on CRE lending activities, but rather is intended to inform supervisory assessments of whether an institution’s risk profile, earnings capacity and capital levels are commensurate with its CRE exposure. In recent years, the federal banking agencies have issued statements to reinforce prudent risk-management practices related to CRE lending, in response to observed growth in many CRE markets, increased competitive pressures, rising CRE concentrations, and an easing of CRE underwriting standards. In other statements, the agencies reminded FDIC-insured institutions to maintain underwriting discipline and to identify, measure, monitor and manage the risks arising from CRE lending, including by holding capital commensurate with those risks. As of December 31, 2025, the Bank did not exceed these guidelines.

Consumer Financial Services. The historical structure of federal consumer protection regulation applicable to all providers of consumer financial products and services changed significantly on July 21, 2011, when the CFPB commenced operations to supervise and enforce consumer protection laws. The CFPB has broad rulemaking authority for a wide range of consumer protection laws that apply to all providers of consumer products and services, including the Bank, as well as the authority to prohibit “unfair, deceptive or abusive” acts and practices. The CFPB has examination and enforcement authority over providers with more than $10 billion in assets. FDIC-insured institutions with $10 billion or less in assets, like the Bank, continue to be examined by their applicable bank regulators.

In response to mortgage-related abuses that contributed to the global financial crisis, the Dodd-Frank Act and CFPB rulemaking significantly expanded underwriting, disclosure and anti-predatory lending requirements for residential mortgage loans, including by imposing ability-to-repay standards and establishing a presumption of compliance for certain “qualified mortgages.” The CFPB

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has continued to refine these requirements through additional rulemaking addressing qualified mortgages ability-to-repay standards.

Over the last several years, the CFPB has taken an aggressive approach to the regulation (and supervision, where applicable) of providers of consumer financial products and services. However, more recently, changes in leadership and policy direction have led to: (i) shifts in regulatory priorities, including the rescission or reconsideration of certain CFPB guidance and rules; (ii) a reduction in CFPB enforcement activity; and (iii) constraints on the CFPB’s budget and resources, although the CFPB continues to retain statutory authority to administer, supervise and enforce federal consumer financial protection laws. In addition, state banking and other financial services regulatory agencies retain authority to administer and enforce state consumer financial protection laws, and could increase supervisory or enforcement activity in response to changes in federal regulatory priorities.

The CFPB’s rules have not had a significant impact on the Bank’s operations, except for higher compliance costs. The Bank also must comply with certain state consumer protection laws and requirements in the states in which it operates.

Website Access to Company Reports

We post reports required to be filed with the SEC on our website, www.hf-wa.com, as soon as reasonably practicable after filing them. Copies of the required reports are available free of charge through our website.

Code of Ethics

We have adopted a Code of Ethics that applies to our directors, officers and employees, as well as those engaged by the Company, but who are not employees, such as contractors and those engaged through external agencies. We have posted a copy of our Code of Ethics at www.hf-wa.com in the section titled Governance: Governance Documents. In accordance with SEC rules, significant changes or waivers of the Code of Ethics will be posted on our website at www.hf-wa.com in the section titled Overview: Governance Documents.

Competition

We compete for loans and deposits with other commercial banks, credit unions and other providers of financial services, including finance companies, online-only banks, mutual funds, insurance companies, and with Fintech companies that rely on technology to provide financial services. Many of our competitors have substantially greater resources than we do. Particularly in times of high or rising interest rates, we also face significant competition for investors’ funds from short-term money market securities and other corporate and government securities.

We compete for loans principally through the range and quality of the services we provide, interest rates and loan fees, and robust delivery channels for our products and services. We actively solicit deposit-related customers and compete for deposits by offering depositors high touch service on a variety of savings and checking accounts and cash management and other services.

Human Capital

Our Culture and Our People

The Company's success depends on the success of its people, and we are dedicated to fostering employee empowerment through robust human capital and talent management. Our strong culture, built upon a clear mission and values, unites employees at all levels of the Company towards a common goal, enabling them to reach their full potential.

As of December 31, 2025, the Company employed 723 full-time and 32 part-time employees across Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. The Company also had five employees who were working remotely in other states. No employees are represented by a collective bargaining agreement. During 2025, we hired 130 regular full-time and part-time employees. Voluntary workforce turnover (rolling 12-month attrition) was 14.8% for the period ended December 31, 2025, compared to 14.9% for the period ended December 31, 2024. At the end of 2025, our average overall tenure was 7.9 years and the average tenure of management was 9.8 years.

Inclusive Workplace

We recognize and appreciate the importance of creating an environment where all employees feel valued, included, and empowered to do their best work. Recognizing the unique perspectives each employee brings, we value their contributions to making us the leading commercial community bank in the Pacific Northwest.

We focus on inclusion and belonging with a dedicated Diversity Council comprised of employees and members of management across different functional areas and a DEI officer role. During November 2025, the Council was temporarily placed on pause due to merger related projects. Both our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Human Resources Officer serve as executive sponsors to this council. Our executive management team and Board have also undergone instructor-led, customized inclusion and belonging training.

The Company recruits from a broad and diverse labor pool and utilizes structured and consistent hiring practices. Hiring Managers complete required training on lawful interviewing and selection techniques using objective, job-related criteria and removing unconscious bias from the selection process.

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The objectives of the Company's DEI plan include:

•Workforce Diversity: Recruit from a diverse, qualified group of potential applicants to secure a high-performing workforce drawn from all segments of the communities we serve.

•Workplace Inclusion: Promote a culture and develop long-term strategies that encourage collaboration, inclusion, flexibility and fairness to enable individuals to contribute to their full potential.

Our senior recruiting team members have achieved certification as “Diversity and Inclusion Recruiters” after completing the Advanced Internet Recruitment Strategies program.

Communication and Listening

The Company strives to maintain an environment of open communication, facilitating access to senior management through initiatives like quarterly virtual “All Banker Calls,” monthly updates for Company leaders and orientation sessions led by the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Human Resources Officer for new hires. To further enhance our “listening culture,” we utilize a survey platform to allow employees to share feedback directly with leadership, including an annual employee engagement survey and periodic pulse surveys. Survey results, shared with employees, executive leadership and the Board, guide actions at both the corporate and departmental levels. In recognition of our commitment to employee engagement, the Company earned a spot among the top 100 Best Places to Work in Washington and Oregon by the Puget Sound and Portland Business Journals based on the 2025 employee engagement survey. The company received similar recognitions in both 2023 and 2024.

Our commitment to open communication extends to providing employees with avenues for confidential and anonymous reporting. We offer a whistleblower hotline/website, enabling employees to report financial and workplace concerns to key leadership, including the Board Chair, Audit Committee Chair, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Risk Officer, Chief Human Resources Officer and Director of Internal Audit. Additionally, our Company intranet hosts an "Idea Bank," allowing employees to submit new ideas or recommendations directly to executive management.

Talent Development and Succession

Developing employees for future growth and professional development is a vital corporate activity crucial to our long-term success. The Company views its employees as our most important assets, which makes training and professional development a worthy investment. We offer an array of learning opportunities through virtual and in-house courses via “Heritage Bank University.” Additionally, we sponsor courses from external providers such as Blanchard, Risk Management Association, Archbright, Jennifer Brown Consulting, Washington Bankers Association, Oregon Bankers Association and the Pacific Coast Banking School.

We offer situational leadership training for leaders that focuses on communication and employee engagement and endorse coaching using the tools from this program. All employees are required to complete an extensive series of quarterly digital training courses focused on bank regulatory compliance, ethics, workplace safety, security, fraud awareness and prevention and other interpersonal or leadership topics. An interactive leadership roadmap is available to assist future leaders in their career development. For the past 10 years, Heritage Bank University has been recognized as a “Champion of Learning” by The Association for Talent Development for its commitment to employee learning.

In 2024, we launched two new Leadership Certificate Programs: The Leadership Essentials Certificate is designed for employees interested in developing their leadership skills and preparing for leadership and management in the future, while the Leadership in Action Certificate is for current supervisors and managers interested in deepening their applied leadership skills. During 2025, 37 Heritage Bankers received their Leadership Certification through one of these programs.

The Company leverages an online succession planning tool to further identify next-generation leaders and establish development plans for these individuals. Over time, we expect this process to increase generational representation across all levels, including leadership positions. As of December 31, 2025, the Company’s generational representation consisted of 16% Baby Boomers (born 1945 to 1964), 37% Gen X-ers (born 1965 to 1980), 34% Millennials (born 1981 to 1996), and 12% Gen Z-ers (born 1997 to 2010). Management and the Board review leadership succession annually.

Recognition and appreciation

We host “Celebrate Great,” an active internal peer recognition platform enabling managers and employees to express appreciation and recognize their co-workers and teams. Throughout 2025, more than 3,290 e-cards were posted on Celebrate Great, with 32 individuals or teams receiving “Bravo” awards and 31 employees receiving “Standing Ovation” awards for their exceptional work. The Company celebrates employees achieving milestone anniversaries or upon retirement with a personalized yearbook and special gift.

Compensation, Benefits and Pay Equity

Offering competitive compensation and benefit programs is critical to attracting and retaining top talent in our highly competitive market areas. Employees are generally eligible for a base pay review at least once per year, as well as upon promotion or transfer. Our hiring practices prioritize pay transparency, with job postings disclosing the pay range minimum and maximum, as well as the applicable benefits package, and we do not request salary history from job applicants. We collaborate with a third party consultant periodically to evaluate hiring, promotion and other pay practices to ensure continued equity and fairness.

Incentive plan goals and results are aligned with strategic Company objectives and are approved by the Compensation Committee of the Board. Further alignment is achieved by having similar corporate performance metrics cascade through most executive, management, and employee annual incentive plans.

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Employees working a minimum of 20 hours per week are eligible for most benefit plans, including a 401(k) Plan with an employer matching contribution, medical, dental and vision insurance, life and long-term disability insurance, public transit passes, paid parking and paid time off. Further, full-time employees enjoy up to 11 paid holidays each year and receive an annual floating holiday to be used at their discretion. Employees also accrue up to 12 days of paid sick time per year for personal use or to care for a family member. Both full-time and part-time employees accrue vacation time ranging from two and five weeks, depending on factors such as position and tenure.

Employee Wellness and Wellbeing

Our corporate culture places a strong emphasis on the wellbeing of our employees, recognizing its pivotal role in cultivating a vibrant and productive workforce. To support holistic wellbeing, we offer a range of resources.

Through our Employee Assistance Program, employees receive counseling and referral services to address challenges both at work and at home. This includes mental health counseling, financial planning, basic legal advice and dependent/elder care referrals, all at no cost to them or their household members. Additional wellness benefits are available through the Company's medical insurance plans. Moreover, enrolled members can take advantage of mental health apps, weight loss and fitness programs, smoking cessation programs and various online resources, all provided at no extra cost.

Community Involvement

As a community bank, we are committed to supporting the communities where we operate, and we actively encourage and support our employees to do the same. In 2022, the Company implemented an annual volunteer event, during which the Bank closes for half a day, providing employees with a paid opportunity to volunteer in teams at various community organizations within our operating footprint. During the 2025 Volunteer Day, Heritage employees volunteered 2,112 hours with 55 organizations. Additionally in 2025, Heritage employees volunteered 5,106 hours with 177 organizations through the Volunteer Program where employees receive 16 hours paid time annually to use for volunteer activities of their choice.