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Canadian Western Bank
Annual Report 2005

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FY2005 Annual Report · Canadian Western Bank
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CANADIAN WESTERN BANK ANNUAL REPORT 2005

CLEAR
THINKING

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FIVE YEAR FINANCIAL SUMMARY

($ thousands, except per share amounts)

Results of Operations
Net interest income (teb)(1)
Less teb adjustment
Net interest income per financial statements
Other income
Total revenues (teb)
Total revenues
Net income
Return on common shareholders' equity
Return on average total assets
Per Common Share(2)
Average common shares outstanding (thousands)
Earnings per share

Basic
Diluted
Dividends(3)
Book value
Market price

High
Low
Close

Balance Sheet and Off-Balance Sheet Summary
Assets
Cash resources, securities 

and repurchase agreements

Loans
Deposits
Subordinated debentures
Shareholders' equity
Assets under administration
Capital Adequacy
Tangible common equity to risk-weighted assets
Tier 1 ratio
Total ratio
Other Information
Efficiency ratio (teb)
Efficiency ratio
Net interest margin (teb)
Net interest margin
Provision for credit losses

as a percentage of average loans

Net impaired loans as a percentage of total loans
Number of full-time equivalent staff(4)
Number of bank branches

2005

2004

2003

2002

2001 

$ 140,320 
3,975 
136,345
47,696 
188,016 
184,041 
54,391 

12.7%
1.03%

$

$

117,236
3,898
113,338 
36,099 
153,335 
149,437 
44,161 

12.9%
0.97%

107,655
2,992 
104,663 
25,326 
132,981 
129,989 
38,193 

12.9%
0.95%

$

91,284
2,449 
88,835 
22,136 
113,420 
110,971 
29,612 

11.2%
0.84%

$

85,501 
– 
85,501 
19,758 
105,259 
105,259 
30,145 

13.5%
0.95%

30,197 

26,782 

25,616 

25,258 

24,002 

$

1.80
1.74 
0.380
14.96 

40.70
22.08 
35.20 

$

$

1.65
1.50 
0.375
13.45 

24.13
19.13 
23.83 

$

1.49
1.34 
0.230
12.16 

20.00
11.63 
19.98 

1.17
1.07 
0.200
10.99 

14.68
11.63 
12.88 

$

1.26 
1.13 
0.180
10.04 

15.25 
11.15 
13.14 

$ 5,705,028

$ 4,918,895

$

4,343,972

$ 3,828,162

$3,439,568 

976,000
4,590,263
4,913,307
128,126
457,990
2,649,065

848,179 
3,930,114 
4,267,788 
110,600 
367,589 
1,759,473 

766,699 
3,529,003 
3,819,750 
121,951 
316,231 
1,474,964 

599,927 
3,182,316 
3,429,071 
57,126 
278,087 
1,166,489 

576,228 
2,811,640 
3,042,307 
67,126 
252,262 
873,538 

9.7%
9.7%
12.4%

49.2%
50.3%
2.66%
2.59%

0.24%
(0.68)%
999 
31 

9.0%
9.0%
11.8%

49.8%
51.1%
2.57%
2.48%

0.25%
(0.36)%
936 
29 

8.9%
8.9%
13.1%

46.3%
47.4%
2.68%
2.60%

0.25%
(0.36)%
632 
27 

8.8%
8.8%
11.4%

50.7%
51.8%
2.60%
2.53%

0.26%
0.13%
583 
27 

9.3%
9.3%
12.5%

50.0%
50.0%
2.69%
2.69%

0.23%
0.25%
548 
27 

(1) Most banks analyse revenue on a taxable equivalent basis (teb) to permit uniform measurement and comparison of net interest income. Net interest income (as presented 

in the consolidated statement of income) includes tax-exempt income on certain securities. Since this income is not taxable, the rate of interest or dividend received is

significantly lower than would apply to a loan or security of the same amount. The adjustment to taxable equivalent basis increases interest income and the provision for 

income taxes to what they would have been had the tax-exempt securities been taxed at the statutory rate. Prior to fiscal 2002, tax-exempt security income was

insignificant and no taxable equivalent adjustments were made. The taxable equivalent basis does not have a standardized meaning prescribed by generally accepted 

accounting principles (GAAP) and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other banks.

(2) A stock dividend effecting a two-for-one split of the Bank’s common shares was declared and paid in 2005. All prior period common share and per common share

information has been restated to reflect this effective split.

(3) The dividend policy was amended to be quarterly instead of semi-annually during the first quarter of fiscal 2004. The dividend rate for fiscal 2004 appears unusually high 

as it includes the last semi-annual dividend of $0.150 per share paid in the first quarter and quarterly dividends of $0.075 paid in subsequent quarters.

(4) The increase in employees in 2004 reflects the acquisitions of Canadian Direct Insurance Incorporated and Valiant Trust Company.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
CANADIAN WESTERN BANK ANNUAL REPORT 2005

CLEAR
THINKING

I

C
A
N
A
D
A
N
W
E
S
T
E
R
N
B
A
N
K
2
0
0
5
A
N
N
U
A
L
R
E
P
O
R
T

C
L
E
A
R
T
H
N
K
N
G

I

I

FIVE YEAR FINANCIAL SUMMARY

($ thousands, except per share amounts)

Results of Operations
Net interest income (teb)(1)
Less teb adjustment
Net interest income per financial statements
Other income
Total revenues (teb)
Total revenues
Net income
Return on common shareholders' equity
Return on average total assets
Per Common Share(2)
Average common shares outstanding (thousands)
Earnings per share

Basic
Diluted
Dividends(3)
Book value
Market price

High
Low
Close

Balance Sheet and Off-Balance Sheet Summary
Assets
Cash resources, securities 

and repurchase agreements

Loans
Deposits
Subordinated debentures
Shareholders' equity
Assets under administration
Capital Adequacy
Tangible common equity to risk-weighted assets
Tier 1 ratio
Total ratio
Other Information
Efficiency ratio (teb)
Efficiency ratio
Net interest margin (teb)
Net interest margin
Provision for credit losses

as a percentage of average loans

Net impaired loans as a percentage of total loans
Number of full-time equivalent staff(4)
Number of bank branches

2005

2004

2003

2002

2001 

$ 140,320 
3,975 
136,345
47,696 
188,016 
184,041 
54,391 

12.7%
1.03%

$

$

117,236
3,898
113,338 
36,099 
153,335 
149,437 
44,161 

12.9%
0.97%

107,655
2,992 
104,663 
25,326 
132,981 
129,989 
38,193 

12.9%
0.95%

$

91,284
2,449 
88,835 
22,136 
113,420 
110,971 
29,612 

11.2%
0.84%

$

85,501 
– 
85,501 
19,758 
105,259 
105,259 
30,145 

13.5%
0.95%

30,197 

26,782 

25,616 

25,258 

24,002 

$

1.80
1.74 
0.380
14.96 

40.70
22.08 
35.20 

$

$

1.65
1.50 
0.375
13.45 

24.13
19.13 
23.83 

$

1.49
1.34 
0.230
12.16 

20.00
11.63 
19.98 

1.17
1.07 
0.200
10.99 

14.68
11.63 
12.88 

$

1.26 
1.13 
0.180
10.04 

15.25 
11.15 
13.14 

$ 5,705,028

$ 4,918,895

$

4,343,972

$ 3,828,162

$3,439,568 

976,000
4,590,263
4,913,307
128,126
457,990
2,649,065

848,179 
3,930,114 
4,267,788 
110,600 
367,589 
1,759,473 

766,699 
3,529,003 
3,819,750 
121,951 
316,231 
1,474,964 

599,927 
3,182,316 
3,429,071 
57,126 
278,087 
1,166,489 

576,228 
2,811,640 
3,042,307 
67,126 
252,262 
873,538 

9.7%
9.7%
12.4%

49.2%
50.3%
2.66%
2.59%

0.24%
(0.68)%
999 
31 

9.0%
9.0%
11.8%

49.8%
51.1%
2.57%
2.48%

0.25%
(0.36)%
936 
29 

8.9%
8.9%
13.1%

46.3%
47.4%
2.68%
2.60%

0.25%
(0.36)%
632 
27 

8.8%
8.8%
11.4%

50.7%
51.8%
2.60%
2.53%

0.26%
0.13%
583 
27 

9.3%
9.3%
12.5%

50.0%
50.0%
2.69%
2.69%

0.23%
0.25%
548 
27 

(1) Most banks analyse revenue on a taxable equivalent basis (teb) to permit uniform measurement and comparison of net interest income. Net interest income (as presented 

in the consolidated statement of income) includes tax-exempt income on certain securities. Since this income is not taxable, the rate of interest or dividend received is

significantly lower than would apply to a loan or security of the same amount. The adjustment to taxable equivalent basis increases interest income and the provision for 

income taxes to what they would have been had the tax-exempt securities been taxed at the statutory rate. Prior to fiscal 2002, tax-exempt security income was

insignificant and no taxable equivalent adjustments were made. The taxable equivalent basis does not have a standardized meaning prescribed by generally accepted 

accounting principles (GAAP) and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other banks.

(2) A stock dividend effecting a two-for-one split of the Bank’s common shares was declared and paid in 2005. All prior period common share and per common share

information has been restated to reflect this effective split.

(3) The dividend policy was amended to be quarterly instead of semi-annually during the first quarter of fiscal 2004. The dividend rate for fiscal 2004 appears unusually high 

as it includes the last semi-annual dividend of $0.150 per share paid in the first quarter and quarterly dividends of $0.075 paid in subsequent quarters.

(4) The increase in employees in 2004 reflects the acquisitions of Canadian Direct Insurance Incorporated and Valiant Trust Company.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
OUR HISTORY OF FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE

PERFORMANCE TARGETS
In  2005,  Canadian  Western  Bank  (CWB)  exceeded  all  our
performance targets, surpassing key targets for income, revenue
and loan growth by a considerable margin. In 2006, CWB will look
to continue its long history of strong financial performance. Key
targets  for  2006  include  net  income  growth  of  18%  and  loan
growth  of  12%,  while  maintaining  strong  credit  quality  with  a
provision for credit losses of 0.22% of average loans. We expect
continued growth and performance across all our banking, trust
and insurance businesses and remain well positioned to pursue
new growth opportunities in the coming year.

Net Income Growth

Total Revenue (teb) Growth

Loan Growth

Provision for Credit Losses as a Percentage of Average Loans

Efficiency Ratio (teb)

Return on Equity

Return on Assets

2005
Target

15%

15% -18%

12%

0.25% or less

50% or less

12% or greater

0.98% or greater

2005
Performance

2006
Target

23%

23%

17%

0.24%

49.2%

12.7%

1.03%

18% or greater

15%

12%

0.22% or less

48% or less

13% or greater

1.05%

2005 HIGHLIGHTS
• Record net income of $54.4 million, an increase of 23% over the previous high recorded in 2004.

• Achievement of our 70th consecutive quarter of profitability, a period spanning more than 17 years.

• Growth in total revenues of 23%.

• Total loan growth of 17%, marking our 16th consecutive year of double-digit loan growth.

• Continued strong credit quality, with an annual provision for credit losses of 0.24% of average loans.

• Growth in lower cost demand and notice deposits of 51%, a key factor in leveraging our core profitability.

• An efficiency ratio (non-interest expenses to total revenues) of 49.2%, which continues to lead the Canadian banking industry.

• Record net income from banking and trust operations of $49.3 million, an increase of 18% over 2004.

• Net income from insurance operations of $5.1 million, reflecting a strong combined ratio of 91%.

• Payment of a stock dividend effecting a two-for-one split of our common shares in January 2005.

• Total return to shareholders, including reinvested dividends, of 50% during the year. 

LOCATIONS

CANADIAN 
WESTERN BANK

REGIONAL OFFICES

Northern Alberta 
(780) 423-8888 
Bill Book

Prairies
(403) 262-8700
Michael Halliwell

British Columbia
(604) 669-0081
Greg Sprung

Industrial Lending
(403) 269-9882
Jim Burke

ALBERTA

EDMONTON

Edmonton Main
11350 Jasper Avenue
(780) 424-4846
Keith Wilkes

103rd Street
10303 Jasper Avenue
(780) 423-8801
Jake Muntain

South Edmonton Common
2142 – 99 Street
(780) 988-8607
Wayne Dosman

Southside
7933 – 104 Street
(780) 433-4286
Donna Austin

St. Albert
300, 700 St. Albert Road
(780) 458-4001
Ward Fleming

West Point
17603 – 100 Avenue
(780) 484-7407
Kevin MacMillen

CALGARY

Calgary Main 
606 – 4 Street S.W.
(403) 262-8700
Doug Crook

Calgary Northeast 
2810 – 32 Avenue N.E.
(403) 250-8838
Glen Eastwood

MANITOBA

WINNIPEG

230 Portage Avenue
(204) 956-4669
Robert Bean

CANADIAN 
WESTERN TRUST 

VANCOUVER

Suite 600, 750 Cambie Street
(604) 685-2081

CALGARY

200, 606 – 4 St. S.W.
(403) 717-3145

WINNIPEG

230 Portage Avenue
(204) 956-4669

CANADIAN DIRECT
INSURANCE
INCORPORATED 

VANCOUVER

Suite 600, 750 Cambie Street
(888) 225-5234

EDMONTON

11th Floor, 10250 – 101 Street
(780) 413-5933

VALIANT TRUST
COMPANY 

CALGARY

310, 606 – 4 Street S.W.
(403) 233-2801

VANCOUVER

Suite 600, 750 Cambie Street 
(604) 443-5153

Calgary Chinook
6606 MacLeod Trail S.W.
(403) 269-9882 
Lew Christie

Calgary Foothills
6127 Barlow Trail S.E.
(403) 252-2299
Chris Minke

RED DEER

4822 – 51 Avenue
(403) 341-4000
Don Odell

LETHBRIDGE

744 – 4 Avenue South
(403) 328-9199
Don Grummett

GRANDE PRAIRIE

11226 – 100 Avenue
(780) 831-1888
David Harvey

BRITISH COLUMBIA

VANCOUVER

West Side
3190 West Broadway
(604) 732-4262
Paul Cheng

West Broadway
Suite 110, 1333 West Broadway
(604) 730-8818
Jules Mihalyi

Park Place
Suite 100, 666 Burrard Street
(604) 688-8711
Rob Berzins

COQUITLAM

310, 101 Schoolhouse Street
(604) 540-8829
David McCosh

COURTENAY

Unit 200, 470 Puntledge Road
(250) 334-8888
Alan Dafoe

KELOWNA

Kelowna
1674 Bertram Street
(250) 862-8008
Ron Baker

Kelowna Industrial Centre
101 – 1505 Harvey Avenue
(250) 860-0088
Jim Kitchin

Cranbrook Satellite Office
2009 – 5 Street South
(250) 426-1140
Mike Eckersley

KAMLOOPS

Unit 112, 300 Columbia Street
(250) 828-1070
Hugh Sutherland

LANGLEY

100, 19915 – 64 Avenue
(604) 539-5088
Craig Martin

NANAIMO

101, 6475 Metral Drive
(250) 390-0088
Russ Burke

PRINCE GEORGE

300 Victoria Street
(250) 612-0123
David Duck

SURREY 

Strawberry Hill 
1, 7548 – 120 Street
(604) 591-1898
Rick Howard

VICTORIA

1201 Douglas Street
(250) 383-1206
Gerry Laliberte

SASKATCHEWAN

REGINA

#100, 1881 Scarth Street 
McCallum Hill Centre II
(306) 757-8888
Trent Bobinski

SASKATOON

244 – 2 Avenue S.
(306) 477-8888
Ron Kowalenko

YORKTON

45, 277 Broadway Street East
(306) 782-1002
Barb Apps

2001 2005 2004 2003 2002 3,440 3,828 4,344 4,919 5,705 Total Assets ($ millions) 0 1,000 2,000 3,000 4,000 5,000 6,000 2001 2005 2004 2003 2002 105 113 133 153 188 Total Revenues (teb) ($ millions) 0 40 80 120 160 200 2001 2005 2004 2003 2002 2,812 3,182 3,529 3,930 4,590 Total Loans ($ millions) 0 1,000 2,000 3,000 4,000 5,000 2001 2005 2004 2003 2002 0.23% 0.26% 0.25% 0.25% 0.24% Provision for Credit Losses  (as a percentage of average loans) Efficiency Ratio (teb)  (expenses to revenues) 0.00 0.25 0.50 0.75 1.00 2001 2005 2004 2003 2002 50.0% 50.7% 46.3% 49.8% 49.2% 0 25 50 75 100 2001 2005 2004 2003 2002 30 30 38 44 54 Net Income ($ millions) 0 15 30 45 60 OUR HISTORY OF FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE

PERFORMANCE TARGETS
In  2005,  Canadian  Western  Bank  (CWB)  exceeded  all  our
performance targets, surpassing key targets for income, revenue
and loan growth by a considerable margin. In 2006, CWB will look
to continue its long history of strong financial performance. Key
targets  for  2006  include  net  income  growth  of  18%  and  loan
growth  of  12%,  while  maintaining  strong  credit  quality  with  a
provision for credit losses of 0.22% of average loans. We expect
continued growth and performance across all our banking, trust
and insurance businesses and remain well positioned to pursue
new growth opportunities in the coming year.

Net Income Growth

Total Revenue (teb) Growth

Loan Growth

Provision for Credit Losses as a Percentage of Average Loans

Efficiency Ratio (teb)

Return on Equity

Return on Assets

2005
Target

15%

15% -18%

12%

0.25% or less

50% or less

12% or greater

0.98% or greater

2005
Performance

2006
Target

23%

23%

17%

0.24%

49.2%

12.7%

1.03%

18% or greater

15%

12%

0.22% or less

48% or less

13% or greater

1.05%

2005 HIGHLIGHTS
• Record net income of $54.4 million, an increase of 23% over the previous high recorded in 2004.

• Achievement of our 70th consecutive quarter of profitability, a period spanning more than 17 years.

• Growth in total revenues of 23%.

• Total loan growth of 17%, marking our 16th consecutive year of double-digit loan growth.

• Continued strong credit quality, with an annual provision for credit losses of 0.24% of average loans.

• Growth in lower cost demand and notice deposits of 51%, a key factor in leveraging our core profitability.

• An efficiency ratio (non-interest expenses to total revenues) of 49.2%, which continues to lead the Canadian banking industry.

• Record net income from banking and trust operations of $49.3 million, an increase of 18% over 2004.

• Net income from insurance operations of $5.1 million, reflecting a strong combined ratio of 91%.

• Payment of a stock dividend effecting a two-for-one split of our common shares in January 2005.

• Total return to shareholders, including reinvested dividends, of 50% during the year. 

LOCATIONS

CANADIAN 
WESTERN BANK

REGIONAL OFFICES

Northern Alberta 
(780) 423-8888 
Bill Book

Prairies
(403) 262-8700
Michael Halliwell

British Columbia
(604) 669-0081
Greg Sprung

Industrial Lending
(403) 269-9882
Jim Burke

ALBERTA

EDMONTON

Edmonton Main
11350 Jasper Avenue
(780) 424-4846
Keith Wilkes

103rd Street
10303 Jasper Avenue
(780) 423-8801
Jake Muntain

South Edmonton Common
2142 – 99 Street
(780) 988-8607
Wayne Dosman

Southside
7933 – 104 Street
(780) 433-4286
Donna Austin

St. Albert
300, 700 St. Albert Road
(780) 458-4001
Ward Fleming

West Point
17603 – 100 Avenue
(780) 484-7407
Kevin MacMillen

CALGARY

Calgary Main 
606 – 4 Street S.W.
(403) 262-8700
Doug Crook

Calgary Northeast 
2810 – 32 Avenue N.E.
(403) 250-8838
Glen Eastwood

MANITOBA

WINNIPEG

230 Portage Avenue
(204) 956-4669
Robert Bean

CANADIAN 
WESTERN TRUST 

VANCOUVER

Suite 600, 750 Cambie Street
(604) 685-2081

CALGARY

200, 606 – 4 St. S.W.
(403) 717-3145

WINNIPEG

230 Portage Avenue
(204) 956-4669

CANADIAN DIRECT
INSURANCE
INCORPORATED 

VANCOUVER

Suite 600, 750 Cambie Street
(888) 225-5234

EDMONTON

11th Floor, 10250 – 101 Street
(780) 413-5933

VALIANT TRUST
COMPANY 

CALGARY

310, 606 – 4 Street S.W.
(403) 233-2801

VANCOUVER

Suite 600, 750 Cambie Street 
(604) 443-5153

Calgary Chinook
6606 MacLeod Trail S.W.
(403) 269-9882 
Lew Christie

Calgary Foothills
6127 Barlow Trail S.E.
(403) 252-2299
Chris Minke

RED DEER

4822 – 51 Avenue
(403) 341-4000
Don Odell

LETHBRIDGE

744 – 4 Avenue South
(403) 328-9199
Don Grummett

GRANDE PRAIRIE

11226 – 100 Avenue
(780) 831-1888
David Harvey

BRITISH COLUMBIA

VANCOUVER

West Side
3190 West Broadway
(604) 732-4262
Paul Cheng

West Broadway
Suite 110, 1333 West Broadway
(604) 730-8818
Jules Mihalyi

Park Place
Suite 100, 666 Burrard Street
(604) 688-8711
Rob Berzins

COQUITLAM

310, 101 Schoolhouse Street
(604) 540-8829
David McCosh

COURTENAY

Unit 200, 470 Puntledge Road
(250) 334-8888
Alan Dafoe

KELOWNA

Kelowna
1674 Bertram Street
(250) 862-8008
Ron Baker

Kelowna Industrial Centre
101 – 1505 Harvey Avenue
(250) 860-0088
Jim Kitchin

Cranbrook Satellite Office
2009 – 5 Street South
(250) 426-1140
Mike Eckersley

KAMLOOPS

Unit 112, 300 Columbia Street
(250) 828-1070
Hugh Sutherland

LANGLEY

100, 19915 – 64 Avenue
(604) 539-5088
Craig Martin

NANAIMO

101, 6475 Metral Drive
(250) 390-0088
Russ Burke

PRINCE GEORGE

300 Victoria Street
(250) 612-0123
David Duck

SURREY 

Strawberry Hill 
1, 7548 – 120 Street
(604) 591-1898
Rick Howard

VICTORIA

1201 Douglas Street
(250) 383-1206
Gerry Laliberte

SASKATCHEWAN

REGINA

#100, 1881 Scarth Street 
McCallum Hill Centre II
(306) 757-8888
Trent Bobinski

SASKATOON

244 – 2 Avenue S.
(306) 477-8888
Ron Kowalenko

YORKTON

45, 277 Broadway Street East
(306) 782-1002
Barb Apps

2001 2005 2004 2003 2002 3,440 3,828 4,344 4,919 5,705 Total Assets ($ millions) 0 1,000 2,000 3,000 4,000 5,000 6,000 2001 2005 2004 2003 2002 105 113 133 153 188 Total Revenues (teb) ($ millions) 0 40 80 120 160 200 2001 2005 2004 2003 2002 2,812 3,182 3,529 3,930 4,590 Total Loans ($ millions) 0 1,000 2,000 3,000 4,000 5,000 2001 2005 2004 2003 2002 0.23% 0.26% 0.25% 0.25% 0.24% Provision for Credit Losses  (as a percentage of average loans) Efficiency Ratio (teb)  (expenses to revenues) 0.00 0.25 0.50 0.75 1.00 2001 2005 2004 2003 2002 50.0% 50.7% 46.3% 49.8% 49.2% 0 25 50 75 100 2001 2005 2004 2003 2002 30 30 38 44 54 Net Income ($ millions) 0 15 30 45 60 CLEAR THINKING
At Canadian Western Bank, all our business lines share the same
philosophy: Clear Thinking. It’s a way of doing business that combines
experience, passion and focus. It means sticking to what we know,
providing superb service and following a proven business plan. And
it results in a clear advantage for our customers, shareholders and
employees. In a world of clutter, clarity speaks volumes. See for
yourself on the pages that follow.

2 Message to Shareholders

5

7

9

Commercial Banking

Personal Banking

Trust Services

11

Insurance

13 Community Spirit

14 Corporate Governance

18 Management’s

Discussion and Analysis

45

Financial Statements

71 Board of Directors

71

72

73

Senior Officers

Shareholder Information

Locations

MESSAGE TO SHAREHOLDERS
We  are  very  pleased  to  report  that  your  bank  recorded  the  best
financial  results  in  its  22-year  history  in  fiscal  2005.  All  annual
performance targets, which included aggressive objectives for asset,
revenue  and  income  growth,  were  surpassed  by  a  comfortable
margin.

We  pride  ourselves  on  meeting  objectives,  the  ongoing  quality 
of  our  earnings  and  our  long  and  continuing  history  of  strong
financial  performance.  Notable  milestones  for  2005  were  the
achievement  of  our  16th  consecutive  year  of  double-digit  loan
growth,  recording  our  70th  consecutive  profitable  quarter  and
generating record total revenues and net income.

Investors  are  becoming  increasingly  aware  of  the  Canadian
Western  Bank  story  and  recognized  our  performance  during
the  year.  At  year-end,  CWB  shares  closed  at  $35.20,  which,
including  reinvested  dividends,  brought  shareholders  a  12-
month  total  return  of  50  percent.  Shareholders  also  saw  the
liquidity of their investment improve during the year following a
stock dividend, which effectively achieved a two-for-one split of
our common shares.

The  theme  of  this  year’s  annual  report  is  “Clear  Thinking”.
Through this theme, we explore all of our lines of business and
what makes us different and successful in each. There is clarity
of vision and a clear difference in our approach to each aspect of
our business that sets us apart and leads to long-term success
and value for shareholders.

Commercial and Personal Banking

While Canadian Western Bank continues to evolve and diversify,
commercial  banking  remains  our  primary  driver  of  growth.
Benefiting  from  the  robust  economic  conditions  in  Western
Canada,  and  in  British  Columbia  and  Alberta  in  particular,  our
experienced  team  of  commercial  lenders  generated  very
impressive numbers this year. Total loan growth of 17 percent for
2005 was well ahead of our target of 12 percent.

The  buoyant  economy  also  supported  our  key  initiative  of
increasing  margins  by  raising  additional  lower  cost  deposits

through our network of branches and Canadian Western Trust.
Excellent progress against this objective was made this year as
lower  cost  notice  and  demand  deposits  balances  increased  by
51 percent.

The  high  quality  of  our  loan  portfolio  reflects  our  strong  credit
discipline  and  the  current  economic  climate  as  evidenced  by
reductions  in  impaired  loans  and  specific  provisions,  and  an
increasing coverage ratio.

Trust Services

Growth  was  very  strong  in  both  of  our  trust  companies  during
2005 with assets under administration up 51 percent to total $2.6
billion.  At  Canadian  Western  Trust,  business  activity  was  very
strong  with  total  accounts  up  33  percent.  Notice  deposits
increased 88 percent during the year as this business continues
to  be  an  excellent  source  of  lower  cost  funding.  Operational
enhancements completed during the year have us well prepared
for continued strong growth in the years to come.

Growth  was  equally  impressive  at  Valiant  Trust  where  client
appointments were up 40 percent in 2005 and 80 percent since
we acquired the company in April 2004. Late in the fiscal year,
Valiant’s operations expanded outside Alberta with the opening
of  a  Vancouver  office  to  serve  public  and  private  companies  in
British Columbia. 

Insurance

Our  entrance  into  personal  home  and  auto  insurance  through
the  purchase  of  Canadian  Direct  Insurance  in  April  2004  has
been very successful to date. This unique company has provided
an excellent return on investment, improved our overall revenue
diversification  and  possesses  strong  growth  potential.  The

2 CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT      CLEAR THINKING

regulatory  environments  in  both  British  Columbia  and  Alberta
present  unique  challenges  that  we  continue  to  adapt  to  and
incorporate into our business model.

Think Western® Culture

While there are many differences across our banking, trust and
insurance lines of business, there is one constant. Our success
in  each  area  is  a  direct  reflection  of  the  high  quality  of  our
employees and their dedication to outstanding customer service.
We  would  like  to  recognize  the  ongoing  efforts  of  all  our
employees  and  thank  them  for  their  contributions  to  past,
present and future successes.

Governance

Public  companies  are  continually  held  to  higher  standards  of
corporate  governance.  At  Canadian  Western  Bank,  strong  and
effective  governance  has  always  been  a  high  priority  and  our
Board  continually  improves  the  governance  framework  to
incorporate new standards and best practices to meet changing
shareholder needs.

Outlook

While  2005  was  an  exceptional  year,  we  have  very  high
expectations  and  will  look  for  more  of  the  same  in  2006.
Financial  targets  for  the  coming  year  include  aggressive
objectives  for  asset,  revenue  and  net  income  growth.  We  feel
these targets are challenging, yet attainable, with the continued
execution of our proven business plan. 

In  2005  and  in  the  beginning  of  fiscal  2006,  we  improved  our
capital  position  and  structure,  which  allows  us  room  for
significant asset growth without the issuance of further common
equity. This strength will assist in improving return on equity and
allow  us  to  remain  opportunistic  in  pursuing  acquisitions  that
will  provide  earnings  accretion  to  shareholders  and  add  to  the
current strength within our existing lines of business.

Jack C. Donald
Chairman

Larry M. Pollock
President and CEO

CLEAR THINKING   CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT 3

CLEAR
FOCUS

COMMERCIAL BANKING
Our commercial banking focus is on the needs of our customers.
It’s  a  simple  philosophy  that  has  helped  us  attain  double-digit 
loan growth for  16  consecutive  years.  We  take  pride  in  providing
prompt,  local  credit  decisions  and  full-service  commercial
banking through our team of experienced account managers. We
specialize in serving mid-market businesses in Western Canada,
and our areas of expertise include Commercial Operating and Term
Loans, Industrial Equipment Financing and Leasing, Commercial
Real  Estate  Lending,  and  Oil  and  Gas  Financing.  Sticking  to  the
markets we  know  and  understand,  and providing  that  extra
personal touch truly sets us apart. Building strong relationships
helps our customers build strong businesses.

A clear involvement… Bob Granger is Assistant Vice President, Commercial Lending, at our
103rd Street branch in Edmonton. Bob takes “going that extra mile” for customers seriously
and is a firm believer in regularly visiting the companies he does business with to better
understand their unique needs.

CLEAR THINKING   CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT 5

CLEAR
FIT

PERSONAL BANKING
We provide a distinctive brand of personal banking that’s a comfortable
fit  for  our  customers.  A  competitive  range  of  deposit  accounts,
investment products, mortgages, personal loans and credit cards
are  delivered  in  our  signature  Think  Western® style.  This  means
good old-fashioned  face-to-face  service,  a  relaxed  atmosphere
and  no  lineups.  Our  knowledgeable  employees  are  approachable
and ready to provide tailor-made solutions to suit the needs of our
customers. And when people phone us, they hear a real voice on
the other end of the line, not a voice mail recording. When life gets
too hectic to drop by one of our branches, we offer the convenience
of Internet and telephone banking. As we continue to add services
and expand our network of branches across Western Canada, we’ll
continue to provide a level of service that’s second to none.

A  clear  friendship…  Tera-Lee  Flavel  is  Assistant  Manager,  Sales  and  Service,  at  our
Regina branch. Tera-Lee’s on a first-name basis with her customers and says that face-
to-face communication is the key to turning customers into friends. She believes that no
matter what the challenge, there’s always a solution to make our customers happy.

CLEAR THINKING   CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT 7

CLEAR
DIRECTION

TRUST SERVICES
Two distinct trust companies with one common goal — smooth sailing
for our clients. Whether doing business with Canadian Western Trust
or  Valiant  Trust,  our  customers  can  count  on  the  support  of  an
experienced team of dedicated professionals. Our niche is providing
small  and  mid-sized  companies  with  unparalleled  service  and
exceptional value. Canadian Western Trust offers retirement, trustee
and  custodial  solutions  to  financial  advisors,  corporations,  and
individuals. Valiant Trust provides stock transfer agency services and
corporate  trust  services  to  both  private and  public  corporations.
Together, the unique and diverse range of services offered by these
two  companies  present  customers  with  a  highly  competitive,
western-based choice for their trust services needs.

A  clear  communicator…  Janet  Brown  is  Director  of  Client  Services  at  Valiant  Trust  in
Vancouver. Janet’s personal philosophy when dealing with clients is straightforward: treat
them  with  respect.  She  believes  clear,  simple  communication  is  key  when  dealing  with
complex issues.

CLEAR THINKING   CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT 9

CLEAR
VALUE

INSURANCE
At Canadian Direct Insurance, our commitment to savings is crystal
clear — we  provide  our  customers  with  better  insurance  for  less
money. We offer both auto and home insurance directly to consumers
in British Columbia and Alberta over the phone or via the Internet.
By  dealing  direct,  we  are  able  to  eliminate  broker  commissions
and  pass  the  savings  along  to  our  customers.  When  it  comes  to
buying or renewing insurance or making a claim, Canadian Direct
consistently achieves customer satisfaction ratings that are among
the best in the business. For added convenience and peace of mind,
our claims help line is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

A clear team philosophy… Brian Young is President and CEO of Canadian Direct Insurance.
Brian  knows  the  importance  of  focusing  on  the  customer,  and  takes  great  pride  in  the
company’s reputation for service and value. Being able to consistently exceed customer
expectations takes a real team effort.

CLEAR THINKING   CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT 11

CLEAR
COMPASSION

COMMUNITY SPIRIT
At Canadian Western Bank, caring comes straight from the heart.
It’s part of our Think Western® culture. And it’s why employees are
committed to their customers and passionate about supporting their
communities. Whether it’s organizing a 30-hour soccer challenge
to raise funds for cancer research, or pitching in to support the
United Way, our people epitomize the volunteer spirit. Corporately,
our  support  includes  the  areas  of  health,  caregiving,  education,
community programs, sports, culture and the arts. We help numerous
charities, focusing on organizations and projects where employees
have  an  opportunity  to  get  involved  and  add  value  directly  to  the
western Canadian communities they live in. 

A clear inspiration… Marlene Serediuk is Deposit Services Officer and Mutual Fund Sales
Representative at our St. Albert branch. If you look up “volunteer” in the dictionary, you’ll
see her picture. She’s involved with a long list of community organizations, including the
United Way, the Alberta Diabetes Foundation, and the RCMP Youth Vandalism Task Force,
just to name a few.

CLEAR THINKING   CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT 13

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

INTRODUCTION

Sound  and  effective  corporate  governance  has  always  been  a  priority
for  Canadian  Western  Bank.  The  Board  of  Directors  (the  Board)  and
management  of  the  Bank  are  committed  to  govern  and  maintain  the
Bank’s  operations  effectively  and  efficiently  within  its  regulatory
environment. Corporate governance policies are reviewed regularly for
improvement and are designed to strengthen the ability of the Board to
effectively supervise management and enhance long-term shareholder
value.

The  Board’s  Corporate  Governance  &  Human  Resources  Committee
provides direction, monitors compliance and makes recommendations
to the Board to enhance corporate performance and promote ongoing
improvement in Board effectiveness. 

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

The Board has reviewed the status of each of its directors to determine
whether  such  director  is  “independent”  as  defined  in  National
Instrument 58-101 Disclosure of Corporate Governance Practices (NI58-
101) or “affiliated” as defined by the affiliation regulations set forth in
the Bank Act. The review included the completion of self-assessment
questionnaires  by  each  of  the  directors  and  a  detailed  review  of  such
questionnaires  by  the  Conduct  Review  Committee.  As  a  result  of  this
review  and  after  consideration  of  all  business,  charitable  and  family
relationships  among  the  directors  and  the  Bank,  the  Board  has
determined that all of the directors, except Mr. Pollock, (or 92 percent
of the Board) are both independent and not affiliated with the Bank. Mr.
Pollock is not independent and is affiliated with the Bank as a result of
his position as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Bank. It is a
requirement under the Bank Act that the Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
be a director of the Bank.

The Board holds four regular meetings each year, as well as additional
meetings  as  required.  At  the  end  of  every  regularly  scheduled  Board
meeting, a session is held without any management, including the CEO,
present.  In  the  year  ended  October  31,  2005,  the  Board  had  four
sessions  at  which  the  CEO  and  other  members  of  management  were
not in attendance.

Mr.  Jack  Donald  is  the  Chairman  of  the  Board.  Mr.  Donald  is  an
independent director as defined in NI58-101. As Chairman of the Board,
his responsibilities include ensuring that the Board functions effectively
and independently of management and that it meets its obligations and
responsibilities as set out in its mandate.

BOARD MANDATE

The Board’s mandate sets out the Board’s purpose, organization, duties
and responsibilities. Its written mandate is summarized as follows.

• overseeing  succession  planning  (including  appointing,  training  and

monitoring senior management);

• adopting a communication and disclosure policy for the Bank;

• overseeing the Bank’s internal control and management information

systems;

• developing  the  Bank’s  approach  to  corporate  governance,  including
developing  a  set  of  corporate  governance  principles  and  guidelines
that are specifically applicable to the Bank; and

• reviewing  and  disclosing,  no  less  than  annually,  measures  for

receiving feedback from stakeholders.

In addition to the above, the Board shall:

• with the assistance of the Corporate Governance & Human Resources
Committee,  review  and  ratify  the  employment,  appointment,  grade
levels and compensation of the top five executive employees of the Bank
and approve all senior officer appointments (Vice President and higher);

• with the assistance of the Corporate Governance & Human Resources
Committee,  develop  a  position  description  for  the  Chief  Executive
Officer,  which,  together  with  other  board  approved  policies 
and  practices,  should  provide  for  a  definition  of  the  limits  to
management’s responsibilities, approve the objectives of the Bank to
be met by the Chief Executive Officer, and ensure the performance of
the Chief Executive Officer is evaluated at least annually; 

• with the assistance of the Corporate Governance & Human Resources
Committee,  develop  a  process  to  evaluate  the  effectiveness  of  each
director and the Board as a whole on no less than a biannual basis;

• review and approve the strategic plan, the annual business plan and
accompanying capital plan and financial operation budget, including
capital expenditures;

• approve material it divestitures, acquisitions and financial commitments;

• with  the  assistance  of  the  Audit  Committee,  approve  the  annual
audited  and  interim  unaudited  financial  statements,  the  annual  and
quarterly Management’s Discussion and Analysis (MD&A), the Annual
Information  Form,  the  Management  Information  Circular  and  other
annual public documents of the Bank; 

• determine the content and frequency of management reports;

• review any recommendations from regulators or the external auditors
respecting  their  assessment  of  the  effectiveness  of  the  internal
controls that come to their attention in the conduct of their work;

• ensure an independent audit/inspection function is in place to monitor

the effectiveness of organizational and procedural controls; and

• with  the  assistance  of  the  Audit  Committee  and  Loans  Committee,

The Board has responsibility for stewardship of the Bank, including:

approve loan write-offs.

• to the extent feasible, satisfying itself as to the integrity of the Chief
Executive Officer and other executive officers (as defined in National
Instrument 51-102 Continuous Disclosure Obligations)  and  that  the
CEO  and  other  executive  officers  create  a  culture  of  integrity
throughout the organization;

• adopting  a  strategic  planning  process  and  approving,  on  at  least  an
annual basis, a strategic plan which takes into account, among other
things, the opportunities and risks of the business;

• the  identification  of  the  principal  risks  of  the  Bank’s  business,  and
ensuring  the  implementation  of  appropriate  systems  to  manage
these risks;

14 CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT      CLEAR THINKING

The Board has developed written position descriptions for the Chairman
of the Board as well as the Chair of each board committee. The Board has
also developed a written position description for the CEO.

ORIENTATION AND CONTINUING EDUCATION

The Bank has not adopted a formalized process of orientation for new
Board  members  although  all  directors  are  provided  with  a  Directors’
Manual,  which  includes  a  copy  of  all  Board  and  committee  mandates
and  policies,  the  Bank’s  by-laws  and  other  reference  material.  New
directors  are  also  provided  the  opportunity  to  meet  with  senior
management and other directors. 

Directors  are  kept  informed  as  to  matters  impacting,  or  which  may
impact, the Bank’s operations through reports and presentations at the
quarterly  Board  meetings.  Special  presentations  on  specific  business
operations are also provided to the Board. In 2005, a presentation was
made  to  the  Board  by  senior  management  from  the  Treasury
department.  Special  meetings,  dedicated  to  strategic  planning  and  to
the annual budget, are also held annually by the Board.

ETHICAL BUSINESS CONDUCT

The Bank has a written code of conduct for its directors and a written
code of conduct for its officers and employees. A copy of both of these
codes may be found on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. The Board monitors
compliance  with  the  codes  by  requiring  each  director,  officer  and
employee to annually sign a certificate confirming his/her compliance
with  the  applicable  code.  To  the  knowledge  of  the  Board,  there  have
been no departures from the code during fiscal 2005 that would have
required the filing of a material change report.

In the event a director or executive officer has a material interest in any
transaction or agreement considered by the Board, or any committee of
the Board, such interest must be declared and recorded in the minutes
of  the  meeting  and  the  director  or  executive  officer  must  vacate  the
meeting  while  the  transaction  or  agreement  is  being  discussed.  The
responsibilities of the Conduct Review Committee include establishing
procedures to ensure disclosure and review of related party transactions
in  accordance  with  the  requirements  under  the  Bank  Act.  These
procedures  include  obtaining  an  annual  certificate  from  each  director
and officer of the Bank, which discloses all related parties of the director
or officer and any related party transactions with the Bank.

The  Board  believes  that  a  culture  of  strong  corporate  governance  and
ethical  business  conduct  must  be  endorsed  by  the  Board  and  the
executive officers. The codes of conduct address many areas of business
conduct  and  provide  a  procedure  for  employees  to  raise  concerns  or
questions regarding questionable audit or accounting matters.

The Bank has adopted a corporate disclosure policy which is reviewed
annually.  Quarterly  and  annual  financial  packages  are  reviewed  by  an
internal  Disclosure  Committee  prior  to  being  recommended  for  Board
approval  and  CEO/CFO  certification  of  annual  and  interim  filings.
Inquiries and requests for information from shareholders and potential
investors  receive  prompt  attention  from  an  appropriate  officer.  The
Bank’s  quarterly  earnings  conference  calls  with  analysts  and
institutional investors are broadcast live, via the Internet, and archived
on the Bank’s website for 60 days. The calls are also accessible on a live
and recorded basis via telephone to interested retail investors, the media
and  members  of  the  public.  The  Bank  also  includes  all  significant
disclosure  documents  on  the  investor  relations  page  of  its  website  at:
www.cwbank.com/investor_relations/default.asp.

The  Bank  has  engaged  an  independent  Ombudsman  to  receive
complaints from banking clients who are unable to obtain satisfaction
from the internal complaint handling process.

NOMINATION OF DIRECTORS

The  Corporate  Governance  &  Human  Resources  Committee  annually
reviews both the size and composition of the Board in accordance with the
Bank’s  policy  “Board  and  Member  Review  and  Assessment”.  In
considering  new  nominees  for  the  Board,  the  Committee  assesses  the
skills,  expertise  and  experience  of  the  incumbent  directors  in  order  to
determine the skills, expertise and experience it should seek in new board
members  to  add  value  to  the  Board.  As  each  director  is  expected  to
participate on one or more of the Board’s four committees, expertise and
experience  related  to  a  particular  committee  may  be  considered  by  the
Committee. The Committee also considers such matters as a candidate’s

integrity,  independence  and  residency.  The  Committee  then  assesses
each potential nominee against the criteria developed by the Committee. 

The  Corporate  Governance  &  Human  Resources  Committee  has
responsibility for identifying new candidates for board nomination. This
committee is comprised of six directors, all of whom are independent.
The  mandate  of  this  committee  in  respect  of  nomination  and  board
assessment  matters  specifically  sets  out  the  following  duties  and
responsibilities:

• seek  and  recommend 

for 
individuals 
Board  membership,  as  required  by  the  Board,  and  forward  their
recommendations to the Board for its consideration;

to  be  considered 

• review, monitor and make recommendations regarding new director
orientation  and  the  ongoing  development  and  education  of  existing
Board members;

• evaluate  biannually  Board  effectiveness  including  membership
criteria, composition, structure and size and, on alternate years, the
involvement  and  contribution  of  the  individual  members  with
concerns  recorded  and  brought  to  the  attention  of  the  Committee
chair, who, in conjunction with the Committee, determines if further
action is required; and

• make recommendations to the Board regarding revisions or additions

to the Board of Directors’ Manual.

COMPENSATION

The remuneration paid to the Bank’s directors and officers is reviewed
each  year  by  the  Corporate  Governance  &  Human  Resources
Committee.  The  level  of  remuneration  is  designed  to  provide  a
competitive  level  of  remuneration  relative  to  comparable  positions  in
the  marketplace.  A  comparator  group  is  developed  by  identifying
companies,  primarily  within  the  Bank’s  market,  of  similar  size
considering  value  of  assets,  number  of  employees  and  revenue.
Consultants are periodically retained to obtain this information and to
assess the Bank’s relative position.

The  Corporate  Governance  &  Human  Resources  Committee  has
responsibility for determining the compensation of the Bank’s directors
and officers. This committee is comprised of six directors all of whom
are  independent.  The  mandate  of  this  committee  in  respect  of
compensation  matters  specifically  sets  out  the  following  duties  and
responsibilities:

• review and recommend to the Board the fees and other benefits to be

paid to directors;

• review and recommend to the Board the employment and appointment
of  the  executive  officers,  to  establish  their  grade  levels  and
compensation,  as  well  as  to  determine  promotions  and  to  consider
changes where warranted in the level of compensation and grade of
incumbent  executive  employees  and  officers  upon  review  of  their
performance;

• review  the  position  descriptions  for  the  executive  officers,  ensuring
such  descriptions  remain  current  and  appropriate  and,  further,  to
also ensure position descriptions are in place for all other executive
officers;

• establish,  in  conjunction  with  the  CEO,  an  executive  compensation
structure to compensate all levels of executive employees and, within
such compensation structure as may at that time be in effect, to make
adjustments and annual revisions as necessary; 

CLEAR THINKING   CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT 15

• ensure  an  annual  performance  appraisal  is  completed  for  the  CEO

and that it is reviewed with him by the Chairman of the Board;

• establish, amend and, where appropriate, terminate:

o all  programs  and  other  personal  benefits  granted  to  executive

employees;

o incentive compensation plans and other bonus arrangements, to
administer such plans and to make appropriate interpretations
and determinations as required;

o share  incentive  plans  and  similar  arrangements  involving  the
grant of share options, or other benefits to employees attendant
upon the issuance of securities and, in addition, to make grants
of  options  under  any  share  incentive  plan  and  generally  to
administer  such  plans,  subject  to  necessary  regulatory  and
shareholder approval; and

o annuity,  pension  and  retirement  programs  for  executive

employees;

• review  the  human  resource  succession  plan  as  prepared  by  senior
management for all officers and any other senior position considered
critical to operations; and

• review  and  report  to  the  Board  on  compensation  plans  for  senior
management  and  other  personnel  in  order  to  confirm  they  are
consistent with the Bank’s sustainable long-term objectives.

The  Corporate  Governance  &  Human  Resources  Committee  has  the
power  to  retain  consultants,  including  compensation  consultants  or
advisors,  as  the  Committee  may  determine  necessary  or  advisable  to
carry out its responsibilities. During the year ended October 31, 2005,
the Committee did not retain any consultant. However, the Committee
did purchase and review a detailed compensation report prepared by a
benefit-consulting firm.

BOARD COMMITTEES

The  Board  has  four  standing  committees:  the  Audit  Committee,  the
Conduct  Review  Committee,  the  Corporate  Governance  &  Human
Resources Committee and the Loans Committee. The Audit Committee
and Conduct Review Committee are required committees under the Bank
Act. All directors currently participate in at least one standing committee.

Audit Committee

Members:

Robert Manning (Chair)
Wendy Leaney
Gerald McGavin

Robert Phillips
Alan Rowe

This committee is comprised of five financially literate and independent
directors. Its written mandate is summarized as follows: 

• review  the  annual  audited  and  quarterly  unaudited  financial
statements, the annual and quarterly MD&A, the Annual Information
Form  and  other  annual  public  documents  of  the  Bank  containing
financial  information  and  report  thereon  to  the  directors  before
approval is given;

• review  the  Bank’s  earnings  press  releases  before  the  Bank  publicly

discloses this information;

• discuss  major  issues  regarding  accounting  principles  and  financial
statement presentations, including significant changes in the Bank’s
selection  or  application  of  accounting  principles,  analyses  prepared

16 CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT      CLEAR THINKING

by  management  or  the  external  auditors  setting  forth  significant
financial reporting issues and judgments made in connection with the
preparation of the financial statements;

• meet with the external auditors to discuss the annual and quarterly
financial results and the returns referred to within this mandate and
receive the auditors’ reports thereon;

• recommend  to  the  Board  the  appointment  of  the  external  auditors,
who shall report directly to the Committee. Review the terms of the
external auditors’ engagement, their level of remuneration, the audit
plan, any proposed changes in accounting policies, their presentation
and  input  concerning  significant  risks  and  key  estimates  and
judgments of management;

• resolve  disagreements  between  management  and  the  external

auditors regarding financial reporting;

• review the independence of the external auditors; 

• review and approve the policy for non-audit services to be completed
by the external auditors, which includes an established definition of
what  constitutes  non-audit  services  and  a  requirement  for  pre-
approval  for  all  but  de  minimus  engagements.  The  Committee  may
delegate to one or more Committee members, the authority to grant
approval  of  such  services,  provided  the  decisions  of  such  members
are reported to the full Committee at its next meeting;

• review  and  approve  the  Bank’s  hiring  policies  regarding  employees
and former employees of the present and former external auditors of
the Bank;

• require  the  management  of  the  Bank  to  implement  and  maintain
appropriate  internal  control  procedures.  Review,  evaluate  and
approve those procedures;

• meet  with  the  Chief  Internal  Auditor  of  the  Bank  and  with
management  of  the  Bank,  to  discuss  reports  on  internal  audit
activities  and  findings  and  the  effectiveness  of  the  internal  control
procedures established for the Bank. Review the mandate and annual
plan of the internal audit department;

• review  correspondence  received  from  regulators  and  external
auditors  together  with  management’s  responses  concerning  the
effectiveness  of  internal  controls  and  other  matters  that  fall  within
the responsibility of the Committee;

• review  such  returns  of  the  Bank  as  the  Superintendent  of  Financial

Institutions may specify;

• review  such  investments  and  transactions  of  the  Bank,  that  could
adversely affect the well-being of the Bank as the external auditors or
any officer of the Bank may bring to the attention of the Committee;

• review  a  quarterly  report  from  the  Loans  Committee  of  the  Board
concerning  the  quality  of  the  loan  portfolio,  the  adequacy  of  the
allowance for credit losses and accounts recommended for write-off;

• review  the  appointment  of  the  Chief  Financial  Officer  and  the  Chief

Internal Auditor;

• review periodically the Code of Conduct for senior financial officers;

• review a quarterly report from the Bank’s Disclosure Committee;

• review  a  quarterly  report  from  the  Canadian  Direct  Insurance

Incorporated Audit and Conduct Review Committee;

• establish  procedures  for  the  receipt  and  handling  of  complaints
received  by  the  Bank  regarding  accounting,  internal  accounting
controls,  or  auditing  matters,  and  establish  procedures  for  the
confidential,  anonymous  submission  by  employees  of  the  Bank  of
concerns regarding questionable accounting or auditing matters;

• review and assess annually the adequacy of its mandate; and 

• prepare  any  report  from  the  Committee  that  may  be  required  to  be
included in the Bank’s Management Information Circular or that the
Board elects to include on a voluntary basis.

Conduct Review Committee

Members:

Albrecht Bellstedt (Chair)
Charles Allard

Allan Jackson
Arnold Shell

This committee is comprised of four independent directors. Its written
mandate is summarized as follows:

• establish  procedures  to  ensure  disclosure  of  transactions  with
specified related parties of the Bank and, further, to review any such
transactions  to  ensure  compliance  with  the  Bank  Act,  either
approving or declining the transactions, as required;

• review  and  approve  internal  policies  for  credit  arrangements  and
financial  services  available  to  employees  of  the  Bank  under  the
regulations concerning officers and associated parties;

• monitor aggregate transactions of the Bank with directors as well as
officers and their interests to ensure continued compliance with the
Bank Act with excesses over permitted limits brought to the Board for
consideration;

• review the conduct policy and any other specialized standards on an
annual  basis  to  ensure  relevance  and  completeness  in  regard  to
legislative requirements;

• monitor procedures for conflicts of interest, confidential information,
disclosure of information and handling of customer complaints, and
be satisfied that the procedures are being adhered to; and

• ensure every employee, officer and Board member agrees to comply, in
writing with annual acknowledgement, with the Bank’s conduct policies.

Corporate Governance & Human Resources Committee

Members:

Jack Donald (Chair)
Albrecht Bellstedt
Allan Jackson

Robert Manning
Howard Pechet
Robert Phillips

This  committee  is  comprised  of  six  independent  directors.  This
committee  is  responsible  for  the  identification  of  new  directors  (as
described  under  “Nomination  of  Directors”  above)  and 
the
determination of the compensation of the Bank’s directors and officers
(as  described  under  “Compensation”  above).  In  addition,  this
committee’s written mandate includes the following:

• recommend to the Board appropriate structure and process required
to  address  governance  issues  and  maintain  compliance  with  all
corporate governance guidelines;

• review and monitor compliance with corporate governance guidelines
and follow any issues noted by the members or as reported to them
by management or other directors from time to time; and

• no less than annually, report to the Board on corporate governance
issues and any instances of non-compliance as required so that the
Board  may  review  such  information  and  take  such  actions  based
thereon as appropriate.

Loans Committee

Members:

Allan Jackson (Chair)
Charles Allard
Jack Donald
Wendy Leaney

Gerald McGavin
Howard Pechet
Larry Pollock
Alan Rowe

This  committee  is  comprised  of  eight  directors,  seven  of  whom  are
independent.  The  CEO,  who  is  not  independent,  is  a  member  of  this
committee. This committee’s written mandate is summarized as follows:

• establish and approve a lending limit for the Bank and the CEO within
the  limits  established  by  the  Board  and  review  such  limits  at  least
annually;

• review,  approve  and/or  decline  all  credit  applications  for  loans  to  a
foreign  country  and  for  amounts  in  excess  of  delegated  limits  up  to
the limit established, not to exceed 10 percent of common equity plus
retained  earnings  or  11  percent  for  sovereign,  provincial  or  major
municipality risk;

• recommend  for  approval  of  the  full  Board  any  loan  proposals  in

excess of the Committee’s limit;

• review the policy of Director Related Loans and make recommendations

to the Board;

• annually  review  and  approve  the  credit  risk  management  program
and  policies,  including  management’s  real  estate  appraisal  policies
and procedures, to ensure they are sound and prudent;

• review/amend  management’s  recommendations  for  loan  loss
provisions  and  loan  write-offs  and  recommend  acceptance  to  the
Audit Committee for their presentation to the Board; and

• provide  direction  with  respect  to  concentration  risk  and  the
identification  criteria,  procedure  and  action  required  on  loans
reported by management to be less than satisfactory.

ASSESSMENTS

In  response  to  the  Board’s  commitment  to  effective  corporate
governance,  a  two-pronged  evaluation  process  has  been  initiated.  On
“even”  years,  the  Board  members  assess  their  effectiveness  as  a
Board. In “odd” years, a peer evaluation of each member is scheduled.

During the board assessment, members are asked to rate items such
as structure and size of the Board, the knowledge and diversity of the
membership as well as the timeliness and completeness of information
received  for  discussion  and  the  overall  effectiveness  of  the  decision
making  process.  The  peer  evaluation  involves  questions  such  as
effectiveness  in  discussions  and  decision-making,  attendance  and
whether  the  director’s  non-Bank  activities  enhance  or  detract  from
shareholder value.

Both  evaluation  processes  are  conducted  in-house  and  require  all
members  to  complete  questionnaires  that  are  forwarded  to  the
Chairman  of  the  Corporate  Governance  &  Human  Resources
Committee.  The  Chairman  then  compiles  the  results  and  prepares  a
single  document  that  includes  any  comments  that  may  have  been
forwarded. Anonymity of the particular submitter is maintained with the
aggregate  results  presented  to  the  Corporate  Governance  &  Human
Resources Committee for discussion and action if required. The results
are  then  communicated  on  an  aggregate  basis  to  the  full  Board  for
discussion and recommendations as required.

CLEAR THINKING   CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT 17

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS

Forward-Looking Statements

Taxable Equivalent Basis (teb)

From time to time Canadian Western Bank (the “Bank”) makes written
and  verbal  forward-looking  statements.  Statements  of  this  type  are
included in the annual report and reports to shareholders and may be
included  in  filings  with  Canadian  securities  regulators  or  in  other
communications such as press releases and corporate presentations.
Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements
about  the  Bank’s  objectives  and  strategies,  targeted  and  expected
financial  results  and  the  outlook  for  the  Bank’s  businesses  or  for  the
Canadian economy. Forward-looking statements are typically identified
by  the  words  “believe”,  “expect”,  “anticipate”,  “intend”,  “estimate”,
“may increase”, “may impact” and other similar expressions or future
or conditional verbs such as “will”, “should”, “would” and “could”.

By  their  very  nature,  forward-looking  statements  involve  numerous
assumptions. A variety of factors, many of which are beyond the Bank’s
control,  may  cause  actual  results  to  differ  materially  from  the
expectations expressed in the forward-looking statements. These factors
include, but are not limited to, fluctuations in interest rates and currency
values,  changes  in  monetary  policy,  changes  in  economic  and  political
conditions, legislative and regulatory developments, legal developments,
the level of competition in the Bank’s markets, the occurrence of weather
related  and  other  natural  catastrophes,  the  accuracy  of  and
completeness  of  information  the  Bank  receives  about  customers  and
counterparties, the ability to attract and retain key personnel, the ability
to  complete  and  integrate  acquisitions,  reliance  on  third  parties  to
provide components of the Bank’s business infrastructure, changes in tax
laws,  technological  developments,  unexpected  changes  in  consumer
spending and saving habits, timely development and introduction of new
products, and management’s ability to anticipate and manage the risks
associated  with  these  factors.  The  preceding  list  is  not  exhaustive  of
possible factors. These and other factors should be considered carefully
and readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-
looking statements. The Bank does not undertake to update any forward-
looking  statement,  whether  written  or  verbal,  that  may  be  made  from
time to time by it or on its behalf.

Most  banks  analyse  revenue  on  a  taxable  equivalent  basis  to  permit
uniform  measurement  and  comparison  of  net  interest  income.  Net
interest income (as presented in the consolidated statement of income)
includes tax-exempt income on certain securities. Since this income is
not  taxable,  the  rate  of  interest  or  dividend  received  is  significantly
lower than would apply to a loan or security of the same amount. The
adjustment  to  taxable  equivalent  basis  of  $4.0  million  (2004  –  $3.9
million) increases interest income and the provision for income taxes to
what they would have been had the tax-exempt securities been taxed at
the  statutory  rate.  The  taxable  equivalent  basis  does  not  have  a
standardized  meaning  prescribed  by  generally  accepted  accounting
principles  (GAAP)  and  therefore  may  not  be  comparable  to  similar
measures  presented  by  other  banks.  Total  revenues,  net  interest
income and income taxes are discussed on a teb basis throughout this
Management’s Discussion and Analysis. 

Canadian Banking Industry

Comparative performance indicators of the Canadian banking industry
referred to in this document are obtained from the published results of
the other publicly traded Schedule I banks (Bank of Montreal, Canadian
Imperial  Bank  of  Commerce,  Laurentian  Bank  of  Canada,  National
Bank of Canada, Royal Bank Financial Group, Scotiabank and TD Bank
Financial Group). Readers are cautioned that the banks in this industry
group  have  operations  and  asset  size  that  may  not  be  directly
comparable to each other or to Canadian Western Bank.

19 Business Profile and Strategy

19 Group Financial Performance

19 Overview

21 Net Interest Income

22 Other Income

23 Non-interest Expenses

and Efficiency

24 Income and Capital Taxes

24 Loans

26 Credit Quality

29 Deposits

30 Other Assets and Other 

Liabilities

30 Liquidity Management

18 CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT      CLEAR THINKING

32 Capital Management

35 Financial Instruments
and Other Instruments

35 Acquisitions

35 Off-balance Sheet 
Arrangements

36 Operating Segment Review

36 Banking and Trust

37 Insurance

39 Summary of Quarterly Results

and Fourth Quarter

39 Quarterly Results

40 Fourth Quarter of 2005 

40 Accounting Policies and Estimates

40 Critical Accounting Estimates

41 Changes in Accounting Policies

Including Initial Adoption

41 Future Changes in Accounting

Policies

41 Risk Management

41 Overview

41 Credit Risk

42 Liquidity Risk

42 Market Risk

43 Insurance Risk

44 Operational Risk

44 Litigation Risk

44 Updated Share Information

44 Controls and Procedures

BUSINESS PROFILE AND STRATEGY

Canadian Western Bank (CWB or the Bank) is the only publicly traded
Schedule I chartered bank headquartered in and regionally focused on
Western Canada and today serves many thousands of small to medium
sized businesses and individuals across the four western provinces in
its signature Think Western® style. CWB operates in three pillars of the
financial services industry, with a primary focus on its core retail and
mid-market  commercial  banking  business  in  Western  Canada.  Trust
services, including self-directed RRSPs and RRIFs, as well as corporate
and  group  trust  services,  are  provided  to  independent  financial
advisors,  corporations  and  individuals  through  CWB’s  wholly  owned
subsidiary Canadian Western Trust Company (CWT). Stock transfer and
trustee  services  are  provided  to  public  companies  and  income  trusts
through  Valiant  Trust  Company  (Valiant).  Canadian  Direct  Insurance
Incorporated  (Canadian  Direct  or  CDI),  a  wholly  owned  subsidiary,
provides personal home, auto and travel insurance products directly to
consumers in British Columbia and Alberta.

In 2005, CWB continued its long history of financial growth and excellence
in  customer  service.  This  year  included  many  milestones  including  the
70th consecutive quarter of profitability, record earnings growth and the
16th year of double-digit loan growth.

CWB’s mission is to be known and respected as Canada’s western bank,
providing  western  Canadians  and  other  selected  markets  with  a
preferred  source  of  individual  and  commercial  financial  services,
delivered  in  its  signature  Think  Western® style.  The  fundamental
objectives  are  to  provide  shareholders  with  a  sound  and  profitable
return,  clients  with  value,  service  and  stability  and  employees  with  a
positive  and  rewarding  work  environment,  while  contributing  to  the
communities in which CWB operates. CWB plans to achieve its mission
through the following strategic priorities:

• Build  upon  the  Think  Western® brand  of  service  by  ensuring  CWB
employees  continue  to  manage  customer  relationships  in  the
responsive and friendly CWB manner. CWB believes that experienced,
knowledgeable  and  dedicated  employees  with  a  Think  Western®
attitude are critical to building customer loyalty.

GROUP FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE

Overview

Highlights of 2005

• Ensure  growth  is  focused,  strategic  and  ultimately  enhances

shareholder value.

• Reinforce industry leadership in cost efficiency, return on assets and
credit losses by maintaining low cost delivery capabilities, mitigating
risks and ensuring continued rigorous credit risk management.

• Leverage  core  profitability  by  the  ongoing  generation  of  lower  cost

deposits through the branch network and CWT.

• Improve  CWB’s  revenue  diversification  by  further  developing  non-
interest revenue sources in banking, trust and insurance operations
through internal growth as well as through strategic acquisitions. 

• Grow  the  contribution  to  earnings  and  revenue  from  the  insurance
segment  through  new  customer  growth  and  a  continued  focus  on
customer satisfaction, disciplined underwriting and cost control.

• Maximize potential opportunities through co-branding, cross selling
and  expansion  into  new  markets  (e.g.  expand  stock  transfer  and
corporate trustee services to Vancouver).

• Increase return on equity (ROE) through continued diversification into
businesses  with  lower  capital  requirements  including  residential
mortgages,  insurance  and  trust  services.  Benefits  to  ROE  through
organic growth in these areas may be accelerated by acquisitions that
are available, accretive and a strategic fit with our current operations.
In further support of ROE expansion, future growth will be funded, to
the extent possible, through existing and additional non-dilutive capital.

• Maintain  and  reinforce  CWB’s  reputation  and  public  confidence
through enhanced communication, diligence in corporate governance
practices  and  high  standards 
in  corporate  reporting  and
accountability.

CWB’s  consolidated  financial  statements  have  been  prepared  in
accordance  with  Canadian  generally  accepted  accounting  principles
(GAAP) and are presented in Canadian dollars.

The following pages contain management’s discussion of the financial
performance  for  CWB,  as  well  as  a  discussion  of  the  performance  of
each operating segment and a summary of quarterly and fourth quarter
results.

• Surpassed all published performance targets.

• Net income was a record $54.4 million, surpassing the record set last year by 23%.

• Record total revenues (teb) increased 23%, with net interest income (teb) up 20% and other income up 32%.

• Loans increased 17%, reflecting 16 consecutive years of double-digit loan growth.

• Credit quality continued to be strong and consistent.

• Branch and trust deposits increased 36%, with the lower cost demand and notice component up 51%. 

• Insurance operations, acquired in April 2004, contributed $5.1 million to net income.

CLEAR THINKING   CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT 19

Table 1 - Selected Annual Financial Information

($ thousands, except per share amounts)

Key Performance Indicators
Net income
Earnings per share(1)

Basic
Diluted

Provision for credit losses as a
percentage of average loans

Efficiency ratio(3) (expenses to revenues) (teb)(2)
Efficiency ratio 
Return on common shareholders’ equity
Return on average total assets
Other Financial Information
Total revenues (teb)(2)
Total revenues
Total assets
Subordinated debentures
Dividends(5)

Change from 2004

2005

54,391

1.80
1.74

0.24%
49.2%
50.3%
12.7%
1.03%

188,016
184,041
5,705,028
128,126
0.380

$

$
$

$
$
$
$
$

2004

44,161

1.65
1.50

0.25%
49.8%
51.1%
12.9%
0.97%

153,335
149,437
4,918,895
110,600
0.375

$

$
$

$
$
$
$
$

2003

38,193

1.49
1.34

0.25%
46.3%
47.4%
12.9%
0.95%

132,981
129,989
4,343,972 
121,951
0.230

$

$
$

$
$
$
$
$

$

$
$

$
$
$
$
$

$

10,230

0.15
0.24

34,681
34,604
786,133
17,526 
0.005

%   

23%

9%
16%

(1)bp(4)

(60)bp
(80)bp
(20)bp
6
bp

23%
23%
16%
16%
1%

(1) A stock dividend effecting a two-for-one split of the Bank’s common shares was declared and paid during 2005. All prior period common share and per common share

information has been restated to reflect this effective split.

(2) See page 18 for a discussion of teb.
(3) A decrease in the ratio reflects improved efficiency.
(4) Basis points.
(5) The dividend policy was amended to be quarterly instead of semi-annually during the first quarter of fiscal 2004. The dividend rate for fiscal 2004 appears unusually high

as it includes the last semi-annual dividend of $0.150 per share paid in the first quarter and quarterly dividends of $0.075 per share paid in subsequent quarters.

Net income for 2005 was a record $54.4 million, an increase of 23% over
2004. The increase reflects 23% growth in total revenues (teb) driven by
very strong growth in lower cost branch deposits, strong loan growth as
well as the contribution of Canadian Direct and Valiant, both of which
were  acquired  in  April  2004.  Credit  quality  remained  strong  and  the
provision  for  credit  losses  as  a  percentage  of  average  loans  was  24
basis points in 2005 and has averaged 25 basis points over the last five
years. The efficiency ratio (teb) at 49.2% continued to lead the Canadian
banking  industry.  Diluted  earnings  per  share  were  $1.74  in  2005,
compared  to  $1.50  last  year,  an  increase  of  16%.  Return  on

shareholders’  equity  and  return  on  assets  were  12.7%  and  1.03%
respectively, compared to 12.9% and 0.97% in 2004.

Total assets increased 16% from one year ago to reach $5,705 million.
Loans increased by $660 million, or 17%, as the Bank’s long history of
double-digit annual loan growth continued. Our continuing strategy to
increase  branch  generated  deposits  was  very  successful  as  balances
increased 36%, with the lower cost demand and notice component up a
significant 51%. At October 31, 2005, branch deposits comprised 67% of
total deposits, an improvement from 57% one year ago.

Outlook for Overall Financial Performance

The overall outlook for fiscal 2006 anticipates continued strong financial performance, with very positive economic conditions in Western Canada and
modestly  higher  interest  rate  levels.  High  resource  prices,  while  creating  many  positive  economic  benefits,  can  also  negatively  impact  the  cost  of
business. Hence, the Bank continues to monitor the overall loan portfolio to assess whether increasing energy prices are impacting the productivity and
viability of our customers but no trends have been identified as yet. A continued emphasis on core banking and trust operations as well as an increased
contribution  from  Canadian  Direct  are  expected  to  further  strengthen  the  Bank’s  ability  to  drive  growth  and  increase  market  recognition.  Targets
established for 2006 include net income growth of 18%, total revenue growth of 15% and loan growth of 12%.

20 CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT      CLEAR THINKING

Net Interest Income

Highlights of 2005

• Net interest income (teb) was a record $140.3 million, an increase of 20% over the prior year. 

• Net interest margin (teb) expanded to 2.66%, from 2.57% in 2004.

Net interest income is the difference between interest and dividends earned on assets and interest expensed on deposits and other liabilities, including
debentures. Net interest margin is net interest income as a percentage of average total assets.

Table 2 - Net Interest Income (teb)(1)

($ thousands)

2005

2004

Average
Balance

Mix

Interest

Interest
Rate

Average
Balance

Mix

Interest

Interest
Rate

$ 890,173

17% $

28,550

3.21% $ 716,759

16% $

21,982

3.07%

Assets
Cash, securities 

and deposits with
regulated financial 
institutions

Securities purchased 
under resale 
agreements 

Loans

Residential 
mortgages
Other loans

Total interest 

bearing assets

Other assets
Total Assets

Liabilities
Deposits

Demand
Notice
Fixed term

Other liabilities
Subordinated 

debentures
Shareholders’ equity
Total Liabilities 

and Equity
Total Assets/Net 

28,130 

792,460 
3,425,392 
4,217,852 

5,136,155 
129,954 
$ 5,266,109 

$ 222,935 
854,301 
3,440,141 
4,517,377 
191,646 

128,839 
428,247 

713 

2.53

65,503 

1,504 

2.30 

1 

15 
65 
80 

42,074 
205,852 
247,926 

98 
2 

277,189 
– 
100% $ 277,189 

4%
16 
66 
86 
4 

2 
8 

$

–
12,923 
116,395 
129,318 
– 

7,551 
– 

5.31
6.01
5.88 

655,980 
3,039,208 
3,695,188 

4,477,450 
5.40 
0.00 
90,062 
5.26% $ 4,567,512

0.00%
1.51 
3.38 
2.86 
0.00 

5.86 
0.00 

$ 162,704
599,144 
3,214,867 
3,976,715 
134,789 

114,688 
341,320 

1 

15 
67 
82 

36,007 
182,590 
218,597 

98 
2 

242,083 
– 
100% $ 242,083

4%
13 
70 
87 
3 

3 
7 

$

–
6,841 
111,246 
118,087 
– 

6,760 
– 

5.49 
6.01 
5.92 

5.41 
0.00 
5.30%

0.00%
1.14 
3.46 
2.97 
0.00 

5.89 
0.00 

2.73%

2.57%

$ 5,266,109

100% $ 136,869

2.61% $ 4,567,512

100% $ 124,847

Interest Income

$ 5,266,109

$ 140,320

2.66% $ 4,567,512

$ 117,236

(1) See page 18 for a discussion of teb.

In 2005, net interest income (teb) increased by $23 million (20%), due to
a  15%  increase  in  average  interest  bearing  assets  as  well  as  the
expansion  of  the  net  interest  margin  (teb)  to  2.66%  from  2.57%.  The
expansion in margin reflects very strong growth in lower cost demand
and notice deposits generated by the Bank’s branch network and CWT.

The  average  balance  of  these  deposits  increased  41%  in  2005, 
and comprised 20% of average funding sources (liabilities and equity),
compared to 17% in 2004. 

The prime rate averaged 4.30% in 2005 compared to 4.05% last year.

CLEAR THINKING   CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT 21

Outlook for Net Interest Income

In 2006, net interest income is expected to increase in response to the targeted loan growth of 12%. The net interest margin is expected to be consistent
with 2005 as CWB currently has only limited sensitivity to interest rate changes and we expect the deposit mix to remain relatively consistent following
the very strong branch deposit growth in 2005. These expectations anticipate a modest increase in the prime interest rate.   

Other Income

Highlights of 2005

• Other income increased by 32% ($11.6 million).

• CDI and Valiant, both acquired at the end of April 2004, contributed $9.8 million of the increase.

• Other income represented 25% of total revenues (teb), compared to 24% in 2004.

Table 3 - Other Income

($ thousands)

Insurance

Net earned premiums
Commissions and processing fees
Net claims and adjustment expenses
Policy acquisition expenses

Credit related
Trust services
Retail services
Foreign exchange
Gains on sales of securities
Other (1)
Total Other Income

2005

2004

$

Change from 2004

$

$

65,847
6,575 
(42,447)
(14,244)
15,731 
15,710 
8,009 
5,797 
1,459 
870
120 
47,696

$

$

27,362
3,399 
(16,990)
(5,875)
7,896 
13,641 
6,208 
5,066 
1,332 
1,685 
271 
36,099 

$

$

38,485 
3,176 
(25,457)
(8,369)
7,835 
2,069 
1,801 
731 
127 
(815)
(151)
11,597 

%   

141%
93  
150  
142  
99  
15  
29  
14  
10  
(48) 
(56) 
32%

(1) Includes gains/losses on land, buildings and equipment disposals and other miscellaneous non-interest revenues.

Other  income  was  $47.7  million,  an  increase  of  32%  over  2004.
Approximately 84% of the increase was due to the contributions of CDI
and Valiant which were acquired at the end of April 2004. Credit, retail
and  foreign  exchange  fees  had  double-digit  growth  due  to  increased
business volumes while gains on securities decreased by $0.8 million.

At  October  31,  2005,  there  were  unrealized  losses  in  the  securities
portfolio of $0.5 million, compared to unrealized gains of $0.5 million at
the end of the prior year. The change in unrealized value from the prior
year primarily reflects fluctuations in interest rates. Gains on securities

Outlook for Other Income

sales in 2004 included a $0.9 million non-cash gain that resulted from the
acquisition of Bank Northwest (a U.S. regional bank in which CWB had an
investment)  by  another  regional  U.S.  bank  in  exchange  for  its  shares.
Other income as a percentage of total revenue (net interest income and
other income) increased to 25% in 2005 from 24% in the prior year. The
slight improvement in diversification of revenues was primarily due to
the  impact  of  CDI  and  Valiant,  offset  by  strong  growth  in  net  interest
income discussed earlier. 

Other income is expected to show strong growth in 2006 over all areas with the exception of securities gains. The enhancement of banking related retail
services will continue to be a focus in 2006, with the objective of increasing fee income through expanded product offerings, additional transactional
deposit accounts and the generation of new business, all supported by the development of the branch network. Trust services are expected to show
strong  growth  in  2006  reflecting  expansion  in  our  existing  markets  including  Valiant’s  recently  launched  operations  in  British  Columbia.  Insurance
services are expected to report solid growth despite ongoing regulatory challenges in Alberta and competitive pressures in British Columbia in the
automobile insurance market that may constrain top line revenue growth. 

22 CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT      CLEAR THINKING

Non-interest Expenses and Efficiency

Highlights of 2005

• CWB continued to lead the Canadian banking industry with an efficiency ratio (teb) of 49.2%.

• Non-interest expenses increased $16.2 million over the prior year, with full year operations of CDI and Valiant accounting for 40% of the increase.

Excluding the impact of CDI and Valiant, expenses increased 12%.

Table 4 - Non-interest Expenses and Efficiency Ratio

($ thousands)

Change from 2004

Salaries and Employee Benefits

Salaries
Employee benefits

Premises
Rent
Depreciation
Other

Equipment and Furniture

Depreciation
Other

General

Professional fees and services
Marketing and business development
Postage and stationery
Capital and business taxes
Travel
Banking charges
Regulatory costs
Communications
Other

Total Non-interest Expenses

Efficiency Ratio (1) (teb)

$

$

2005

47,586
9,022
56,608 

7,604
1,795 
1,502
10,901

3,006
2,857
5,863

4,393 
2,321 
2,266 
2,063 
1,395
1,206 
802 
692 
4,046
19,184 
92,556

$

$

2004

38,649
7,349 
45,998 

6,450 
1,391 
1,160 
9,001 

2,565 
2,356 
4,921 

3,024 
2,054 
2,072 
2,205 
1,245 
1,132 
807 
663 
3,278 
16,480 
76,400

$

$

49.2%

49.8%

$ 

8,937
1,673 
10,610 

1,154 
404 
342 
1,900 

441 
501 
942 

1,369 
267 
194 
(142)  
150 
74 
(5)  
29 
768 
2,704 
16,156

%  

23%
23 
23 

18 
29 
29 
21 

17 
21 
19 

45 
13 
9 
(6)  
12 
7 
(1)  
4 
23 
16 
21%

(1) Non-interest expenses as a percentage of total revenues (net interest income (teb) plus other income). 

Non-interest  expenses  increased  21%  to  $92.6  million  in  2005.  The
increase  reflects  the  additional  operating  expenses  ($6.7  million)  and
amortization  of  intangible  assets  ($0.3  million)  associated  with  CDI  and
Valiant as well as increased non-cash stock based compensation charges
of $0.8 million. Excluding the impact of these items, non-interest expenses
were  up  12%  over  the  prior  year.  The  remaining  increase  reflects  the
operating  expenses  of  new  branches,  increased  staff  levels  related  to
business growth, annual salary levels and various other initiatives.

Outlook for Non-interest Expenses and Efficiency

The efficiency ratio (teb) was 49.2% in 2005, compared to 49.8% in the
prior year. The operations of CDI and Valiant added approximately 120
basis points to the ratio. Despite the increase, CWB continues to lead
the industry in this measure. Non-interest expenses as a percentage of
average assets were 1.66%, down from 1.67% in 2004. 

The branch development program will continue in 2006, and additional stock-based compensation charges and various other initiatives are expected to
result  in  an  increase  in  non-interest  expenses  of  approximately  9%.  Despite  the  impact  of  the  increased  costs  anticipated  in  2006,  CWB  expects  to
continue to lead the Canadian banking industry with an efficiency ratio (teb) of less than 48%.  

CLEAR THINKING   CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT 23

Income and Capital Taxes

The  provision  for  income  taxes  (teb)  was  36.3%  in  2005,  an  increase
from 34.6% in the prior year which included a $1.6 million tax benefit
from  the  redemption  of  a  series  of  tax  advantaged  preferred  shares.
The provision before the teb adjustment was 33.2% this year, compared
to 30.6% in 2004. 

Future tax assets and liabilities represent the cumulative amount of tax
applicable to temporary differences between the carrying amount of the
assets  and  liabilities  and  their  values  for  tax  purposes.  The  future
income tax asset relates primarily to the general allowance for credit

losses. Future tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted or
substantively enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in
the  years  in  which  those  temporary  differences  are  expected  to  be
recovered  or  settled.  Changes  in  future  income  taxes  related  to  a
change  in  tax  rates  are  recognized  in  income  in  the  period  of  the  tax
rate change. 

Capital  losses  of  $11.1  million  (2004  –  $11.8  million)  are  available  to
apply  against  future  capital  gains  and  have  no  expiry  date.  The  tax
benefit of these capital losses has not been recognized.

Table 5 - Capital Taxes

($ thousands)

British Columbia
Alberta
Saskatchewan
Manitoba
Total Capital Taxes

Capital
Tax Rate

Capital
Allocation

1.00%
n/a
0.70%
3.00%

27% $
67%
4%
2%

$

Change from 2004

2005
1,216

–   

157 
464 
1,837

$

$

2004
1,472
–
122
399
1,993

$

$

$
(256)
–   

35 
65 
(156)

%  
(17)%
–  
29  
16  
(8)%

Capital taxes for 2005 totalled $1.8 million, a decrease of 8% over 2004.
The  decrease  is  primarily  attributable  to  a  geographical  shift  in
business that offset the increased capital associated with the retention
of earnings and additional subordinated debentures.

The goods and services tax (GST) carries with it a significant cost to the
Bank, as it does to all financial institutions, because the majority of the

Outlook

Bank’s activities, except leasing and trust services, are exempt under
GST  legislation  and  thus  GST  cannot  be  charged  and  collected  from
customers  as  occurs  in  the  majority  of  Canadian  businesses.  As  a
result, the ability to recover the GST paid on most purchased goods and
services is lost. 

The effective tax rate (teb) is expected to be approximately 35% in 2006. Provincial capital tax is expected to increase modestly due to the retention 
of earnings and the additional subordinated debentures issued in November 2005 (described on page 32).

Loans

Highlights of 2005

• Loans increased 17%, marking CWB’s 16th consecutive year of double-digit loan growth.

• Growth in residential mortgages, including the sub-prime residential mortgage initiative, of 35%.

• Growth in commercial and industrial loans of 18% and 23%, respectively.

• Energy loans decreased $33 million.

24 CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT      CLEAR THINKING

Table 6 - Outstanding Loans by Type and by Provincial Location of Security

($ millions)

October 31, 2005
Loans to Individuals

Residential mortgages(2)
Other

Loans to Businesses(3)

Commercial
Construction and real estate(4)
Industrial
Energy

Total Loans
Composition Percentage

October 31, 2004
Loans to Individuals

Residential mortgages(2)
Other

Loans to Businesses(3)

Commercial
Construction and real estate(4)
Industrial
Energy

Total Loans
Composition Percentage

British   

Columbia

Alberta Saskatchewan

Manitoba

Other
Provinces

Total(1)

Composition
Percentage

$

$

$

$

427
52 
479 

453 
437 
311 
– 
1,201 
1,680

37%

337
48 
385 

393 
442 
257 
– 
1,092 
1,477

$

$

$

$

398
91 
489 

664 
663 
509 
91 
1,927 
2,416

52%

277
71 
348 

596 
603 
405 
124 
1,728 
2,076

$

$

$

$

59
14 
73 

38 
51 
26 
– 
115 
188

4%

60 
13 
73 

18 
42 
22 
– 
82 
155

$

$

$

$

28
3 
31 

47 
64 
10 
– 
121 
152

3%

15
3 
18 

59 
65 
9 
– 
133 
151

$

$

$

$

30
– 
30 

129 
4 
33 
– 
166 
196 

4%

12 
– 
12 

65 
3 
32 
– 
100 
112

$

$

$

$

942
160 
1,102 

1,331 
1,219 
889 
91 
3,530 
4,632 

100%

701 
135 
836 

1,131 
1,155 
725 
124 
3,135 
3,971 

37%

52%

4%

4%

3%

100%

20%
3 
24 

30
26
19
2 
76 
100%

18%
3 
21 

28 
29 
18 
3 
79 
100%

(1) This table does not include an allocation of the allowance for credit losses and deferred revenue and premiums.
(2) Includes single and multi-unit residential mortgages.
(3) Corporate loans (described below) are included in Loans to Businesses based on the security of the specific loan and the nature of the borrower’s business.
(4) Includes commercial term mortgages and project (interim) mortgages.

Loans,  excluding  the  allowance  for  credit  losses,  increased  $663
million  (17%)  to  total  $4,633  million  at  the  end  of  2005.  There  was
strong  growth  in  most  sectors  with  the  only  exception  being  energy
loans,  which  decreased  $33  million  (27%)  in  2005.  Continued  positive
cash flows in the energy sector from high resource prices have resulted
in  some  loans  being  repaid  or  reduced  as  well  as  making  it  more
challenging to generate new growth. 

Our  sub-prime  residential  mortgage  initiative,  launched  in  2004,
continued its steady progress this year, ending the year with $81 million
in outstanding balances, an increase of $59 million. Our experience has
been very encouraging and we will continue to focus on developing this
profitable niche.

The mix of loan type has remained relatively consistent year-over-year
(see  Figure  1)  with  the  notable  changes  being  commercial  loans

increasing  to  30%  of  the  portfolio  from  28%  one  year  ago  and
residential  mortgages  increasing  to  20%  from  18%,  offset  by
construction  and  real  estate  loans  decreasing  to  26%  from  29%.  The
location  of  loan  security  (see  Figure  3)  has  also  remained  relatively
consistent  year-over-year  with  50%  and  39%  of  the  security  based  in
Alberta and British Columbia, respectively.

The  Bank  has  developed  a  portfolio  of  loans,  identified  internally  as
corporate  loans,  through  participation  in  selected  syndications,  the
majority of which have been structured and led by the major Canadian
banks. This initiative has afforded the opportunity to participate in larger
credits  as  well  as  providing  a  degree  of  geographic  diversification.  At
October  31,  2005,  the  corporate  loan  portfolio,  excluding  syndicated
energy loans, totalled $177 million (2004 – $140 million).

CLEAR THINKING   CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT 25

Figure 1 - Loans by Portfolio

Personal Loans 2%

Corporate Loans 4%

Residential Mortgages 9%

Multi-unit Residential 5%

Oil and Gas Production 2%

Industrial Financing 
and Leasing 19%

Commercial Project 
Loans Real Estate 11%

Outlook for Loans

General Commercial 25%

Commercial Mortgages
Real Estate 23%

Consistent and strong loan growth of 12% is targeted for 2006, supported by a positive economic outlook for Western Canada, the Bank’s sub-prime
residential mortgage initiative and ongoing branch development. 

Credit Quality

Highlights of 2005

•

•

•

•

Credit quality remained strong.

Provision for credit losses was stable at 24 basis points of average loans, while net new specific provisions (excluding the increase in the general 
allowance) were only six basis points of average loans.

Gross impaired loans were 25 basis points of total loans, compared to 62 basis points in 2004 and below the low end of the expected range.

Total allowance for credit losses represented 370% of gross impaired loans at year-end.

Impaired Loans

As shown in Table 7, gross impaired loans totalled $11.5 million and represented 25 basis points of outstanding loans, a reduction over 2004. The gross
impaired loan portfolio decreased below the historically low level achieved in 2004.

Table 7 - Change in Gross Impaired Loans

($ thousands)

Gross impaired loans, beginning of year
Net new formations (reductions)
Write-offs, net of recoveries
Total
Gross Impaired Loans as a Percentage of Total Loans

$

$

2005 
24,890
(6,503) 
(6,900) 
11,487

0.25%

$

$

2004 
22,241

8,084  
(5,435) 
24,890

0.62%

Change from
2004
2,649  
(14,587) 
(1,465) 
(13,403) 

$

$

(0.37)%

A consistent provision for credit losses at 24 basis points of average loans together with lower impaired loans has resulted in the allowance for credit
losses exceeding gross impaired loans over the past three years. At October 31, 2005, the total allowance for credit losses exceeded gross impaired
loans by $31.0 million (2004 – $14.4 million), which represented negative 68 basis points (2004 – negative 37 basis points) of net loans outstanding (see
Figure 2). The allowance for credit losses as a percentage of gross impaired loans (coverage ratio) more than doubled to 370% (2004 – 158%).

26 CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT      CLEAR THINKING

Figure 2 - Net Impaired Loans as a Percentage of Net Loans Outstanding

(0.68%)

(0.37%)

(0.37%)

2005

2004

2003

2002

0.13%

2001

0.25%

The portfolio is reviewed regularly with credit decisions undertaken on a case by case basis to provide early identification of possible adverse trends.
Loans that have become impaired are monitored closely with regular quarterly, or more frequent, review of each loan and the realization plan.

Outlook for Impaired Loans

The dollar level of gross impaired loans is expected to fluctuate over time within the Bank’s range of acceptable levels as loans become impaired and
are subsequently resolved. The total amount of gross impaired loans was extremely low at the end of 2005 and the absolute amount is expected to
increase in future, although the overall outlook for 2006 remains consistent with the 2005 experience with no expectation of adverse change in the
general trend of the portfolio. 

Allowance for Credit Losses

Table 8 shows the year-over-year change in the allocation of the allowance for credit losses to specific provisions by category of impaired loans and to
the general allowance for credit risk.

Table 8 - Allowance for Credit Losses

($ thousands)

Specific Provisions

Commercial
Real estate
Industrial
Consumer and personal

General Allowance
Total

(1) Recoveries in 2005 totalled $240 (2004 – $310).

The allowance for credit losses is maintained to absorb both identified
and unidentified losses in the loan portfolio and consists of $6.0 million
in  specific  allowances  and  $36.5  million  in  the  general  allowance  for
credit  risk  at  October  31,  2005.  Specific  allowances  include  the
accumulated  allowances  for  losses  on  identified  impaired  loans
required to reduce the carrying value of those loans to their estimated
realizable  amount.  The  general  allowance  for  credit  risk  includes
allowances  for  future  losses  inherent  in  the  portfolio  that  are  not
presently  identifiable  on  an  account-by-account  basis.  The  general
allowance  represents  79  basis  points  of  gross  outstanding  loans  (73
basis  points  in  2004)  and  77  basis  points  of  risk-weighted  assets  (72
basis  points  in  2004).  An  assessment  of  the  adequacy  of  the  general
allowance is conducted quarterly and measured against the five and 10
year loan loss averages. In addition, a method of applying a progressive

2005
Opening
Balance 

Write-offs, 
net of 
Recoveries(1)

Provision
for Credit
Losses

7,289 
1,494 
1,335 
386
10,504 
28,816 
39,320 

$

$

$

$

5,139 
465 
937 
359
6,900 
– 
6,900

$

$

1,867 
(307)
342 
552
2,454 
7,646 
10,100

$

$

2005
Ending
Balance

4,017 
722 
740 
579
6,058 
36,462 
42,520 

(increasing with higher risk) loss ratio range against groups of loans of
a common risk rating is utilized to test the general allowance adequacy.
The  general  allowance  is  expected  to  increase  in  strong  economic
times  and  decrease  in  weaker  economic  times  as  allowances  are
allocated to specific credits. 

Policies  and  methodology  governing  the  management  of  the  general
allowance  are  in  place.  The  loan  portfolio  is  delineated  through  the
assignment  of  internal  risk  ratings  to  each  borrower.  The  rating  is
based  on  assessments  of  key  evaluation  factors  for  the  nature  of  the
exposure applied on a consistent basis across the portfolio. The rating
system has 12 levels of risk and ratings are updated at least annually
for  all  loans,  with  the  exception  of  consumer  loans  and  single-unit
residential mortgages. Further development of methodology to support
the testing of the general allowance will continue. 

CLEAR THINKING   CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT 27

Outlook for Allowance for Credit Losses

Specific allowances will continue to be determined on an account-by-account basis and reviewed quarterly. Significant change to the level of the general
allowance is not anticipated based on expanded methodology, assuming no material change in the portfolio’s credit quality. 

Provision for Credit Losses

The provision for credit losses represented 24 basis points of average
loans  in  2005,  consistent  with  the  five  year  average  of  25  basis 
points (10 year average – 24 basis points). Net new specific provisions
(excluding the increase in the general allowance) represented six basis
points of average loans in 2005, compared to the five year average of 16
basis points and reflecting the strong credit quality of the portfolio. The
Bank  has  a  long  history  of  strong  credit  quality  and  low  loan  losses,
both  of  which  compare  favourably  to  the  Canadian  banking  industry. 

External  factors  that  may 
impact  Western  Canada  and  the
environments  in  which  the  Bank’s  customers  operate  are  continually
analysed. The outlook for the western Canadian economy is positive and
the quality of the loan portfolio is expected to remain strong. The five
year loan loss average based only on net new specific provisions (e.g.
excluding the annual increase or decrease in the general allowance for
credit risk) is 16 basis points (10 year average – 17 basis points).

Table 9 - Provision for Credit Losses

Provision for credit losses(1)
Net new specific provisions(2)
General allowance (thousands)
Coverage ratio(3)

2005
0.24%
0.06%

2004
0.25%
0.22%

2003
0.25%
0.14%

2002
0.26%
0.18%

2001
0.23%
0.21%

$

36,462

$

28,816

$

27,558

$

23,797

$

21,453 

370%

158%

159%

88%

80%

(1) As a percentage of average loans.
(2) Portion of the year’s provision for credit losses allocated to specific provisions as a percentage of average loans
(3) Allowance for credit losses as a percentage of gross impaired loans.

Outlook for Provision for Credit Losses

The  provision  for  credit  losses  is  expected  to  be  no  more  than  22  basis  points  of  average  loans  in  2006,  compared  to  24  basis  points  in  2005.
The provision reflects an assessment of the current strength of the portfolio and adequacy of the general allowance for credit losses and will continue
to be reviewed on a quarterly basis.

Diversification of Portfolio

Total Advances Based on Location of Security (also see Table 6)

The following table illustrates the diversification in lending operations
by industry sector.

Figure 3 - Geographical Distribution of Loans(1)

Table 10 - Total Advances Based on Industry Sector(1)

Alberta 50%

British Columbia 39%

Saskatchewan 4%

Manitoba 3%

Other 4%

(1) Includes undrawn lines of credit.

28 CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT      CLEAR THINKING

% at October 31

Real estate operations
Construction
Consumer loans and residential mortgages(2)
Transportation and storage
Hotel/motel
Oil and gas (production)
Finance and insurance
Manufacturing
Logging/forestry
Oil and gas (service)
Other services
Retail trade
Wholesale trade
Other
Total 

2005

2004

25%
18 
11
8
5
2
2
5
3
4
4 
3
2
8
100%

26%
18 
10 
8 
6 
4 
4 
3 
3 
3 
3 
3 
3 
6 
100%

(1) Table is based on the Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) codes.
(2) Residential mortgages in this table include only single-family properties.
(3) The Bank does not engage in direct lending to the agricultural sector.

Management of the loan portfolio includes the strategy of focusing on areas of demonstrated lending expertise and avoiding over concentrations in one
geographic area or industry sector. The portfolio is well diversified with a mix of commercial and personal business. Industrial lending units are set up within
branches or as stand alone operations, while oil and gas production lending is conducted by specialists in the Calgary market. In addition to these areas, real
estate divisions are established in the major centres in which the Bank operates.

Outlook for Diversification of Portfolio

The portfolio is expected to remain well diversified by both industry sector and geographical location.

Deposits

Highlights of 2005

• Lower cost personal and business deposits increased a very strong 51%.

• Branch generated deposits improved significantly to 67% of total deposits from 57% one year ago.

Table 11 - Deposits

($ thousands)

Personal
Business and government
Deposit taking institutions
Total Deposits
% of Total

Personal
Business and government
Deposit taking institutions
Total Deposits
% of Total

Demand

Notice

Term

$

$

$

$

14,947
256,174 

$

–   

271,121 

$

5%

400,279
615,588 
–
1,015,867

21%

Demand
11,388
178,826 
– 
190,214

$

$

Notice
247,575
414,943 
– 
662,518

$

$

$

$

2,581,835
1,028,510 
15,974 
3,626,319

74%

Term
2,719,912
674,807 
20,337 
3,415,056

$

$

$

$

2005
Total

2,997,061
1,900,272 
15,974 
4,913,307 

100%

2004
Total
2,978,875
1,268,576 
20,337 
4,267,788 

4%

16%

80%

100%

% of
Total

61%
39
0
100%

% of
Total

70%
30
–
100%

Deposits totalled $4,913 million at October 31, 2005, an increase of $646 million (15%) over the prior year. All sources of deposits increased in real dollar
terms in 2005 with very strong growth of 47% in lower cost business demand and savings deposits and 60% growth in personal chequing, savings and
notice deposits. The lower cost personal and business deposits accounted for 26% of total deposits, compared to 20% one year ago. 

Table 12 - Deposits by Source (as a percentage of total deposits at October 31)

Branches
Deposit agents
Wholesale
Total

2005

67%
32
1
100%

2004

57%
42
1
100%

2003

54%
44
2
100%

2002

53%
45
2
100%

2001

53%
45
2
100%

Deposits are primarily generated from the branch network (including CWT) and an agent network. Increasing deposits generated by the branch network,
and in particular the lower cost component, is a continued focus due to the positive impact on earnings as well as the underlying relationship that is
developed with the customer. Agent deposits, which are primarily rate driven, are more expensive because a commission is paid, but this added cost is
countered by a reduced need for a more extensive branch network. In 2005, branch and trust generated deposits increased 36%, and increased to 67%
of total deposits from 57% one year ago.

CLEAR THINKING   CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT 29

Outlook for Deposits

A very strong western Canadian economy and increasing resource prices have contributed to large amounts of liquidity held by commercial customers,
which can be subject to greater fluctuation, at the end of 2005. Increasing branch raised deposits (including through CWT) will continue to be a focus
of ongoing initiatives in 2006, with particular emphasis on the lower cost notice and demand component, which has associated transactional fee income
and provides significant leverage to core profitability through lower funding costs. 

Other Assets and Other Liabilities

At year-end, other assets totalled $139 million (2004 – $141 million). CDI’s insurance related other assets were $57 million (2004 - $56 million) and
consisted primarily of instalment premiums receivable as well as reinsurers’ share of unpaid claims and unearned premiums. Other assets at October
31, 2005 also included goodwill and intangible assets of $6.9 million and $3.8 million, respectively, recognized on the acquisitions of CDI and Valiant Trust.

Other liabilities totalled $206 million at October 31, 2005 (2004 – $173 million). CDI’s insurance related other liabilities were $108 million (2004 - $90
million) and consisted primarily of unearned premiums and provisions for unpaid claims and adjustment expenses. The increase in insurance related
other liabilities during the year primarily relates to increases in unpaid claims.

Liquidity Management

A schedule outlining the consolidated securities portfolio at October 31,
2005  is  provided  in  Note  4  to  the  consolidated  financial  statements. 
A conservative policy is maintained in this area with:

• all  investments,  other  than  those  securities  categorized  as  “other
marketable  securities”,  limited  to  high  quality  debt  securities  and
short-term money market instruments to meet objectives of liquidity
management and to provide an appropriate return;

• specific investment criteria and procedures for management of the

securities portfolio;

• regular  review,  monitoring  and  approval  by  the  Asset  Liability
Committee  (ALCO)  of  policies  regarding  these  investments  and
annual review and approval by the Board of Directors; and

• quarterly reporting to the Board of Directors on the securities portfolio.

Table 13 - Liquid Assets

($ thousands)

Cash
Deposits with regulated financial institutions
Cheques and other items in transit
Total Cash Resources

Securities purchased under resale agreements
Government of Canada treasury bills
Government of Canada, provincial and municipal bonds, term to maturity 1 year or less
Government of Canada, provincial and municipal bonds, term to maturity over 1 year
Preferred shares
Other marketable securities
Total Securities Purchased Under Resale Agreements

and Marketable Securities

Total Liquid Assets
Total Assets
Liquid assets as a percentage of total assets
Total Deposit Liabilities
Liquid assets as a percentage of total deposit liabilities

$

$
$

$

$

2005 
2,759
228,441
4,954
236,154

36,940
200,318 
163,341
103,320 
121,085 
111,993 

$

2004 
2,831
229,895 
–  
232,726 

74,966 
182,487 
105,350 
98,871 
107,104 
43,786 

736,997
973,151
5,705,028

17.1%

4,913,307

19.8%

$
$

$

612,564 
845,290
4,918,895 

17.2%

4,267,788 

19.8%

$
$

$

Change from
2004

(72)  
(1,454)  
4,954 
3,428 

(38,026)  
17,831 
57,991 
4,449 
13,981 
68,207 

124,433 
127,861 
786,133 

(0.1)%

645,519 

0.0)%

30 CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT      CLEAR THINKING

As  shown  in  Table  13,  liquid  assets  comprised  of  cash,  interbank
deposits,  securities  purchased  under  resale  agreements  and
marketable  securities,  totalled  $973  million  at  October  31,  2005,  an
increase  of  $128  million  from  October  31,  2004.  Liquid  assets
represented  17.1%  (2004  –  17.2%)  of  total  assets  and  19.8%  (2004  –
19.8%) of total deposit liabilities at that date.

Highlights of the composition of liquid assets at October 31, 2005 were
as follows:

• maturities  within  one  year  decreased  to  69%  (2004  –  74%)  of  liquid
assets  or  $673  million  (2004  -  $629  million)  for  yield  enhancement
and matching purposes;

• Government  of  Canada  provincial  and  municipal  debt  securities
remained relatively consistent at 48% (2004 – 46%) of liquid assets; 

• deposits  with  regulated  financial  institutions  including  Bankers’

Acceptances decreased to 24% (2004 – 27%) of liquid assets; 

• preferred shares decreased to 12% (2004 – 13%) of liquid assets; and

• other  marketable  securities  increased  to  12%  of  liquid  assets 

(2004 – 5%). 

Table 14 - Deposit Maturities Within One Year

($ millions)

Included  in  liquid  assets  are  securities  purchased  under  resale
agreements. These are short-term advances, typically no more than a
few  days  in  duration,  to  securities  dealers  and  require  the  dealer  to
repurchase  the  securities  comprised  of  treasury  bills  or  other  high
quality liquid securities. 

Short-term uncommitted facilities have been arranged with a number
of financial institutions. The government insured/guaranteed mortgage
portfolios held by the Bank also represent a potential source of liquidity.
The  Bank  may  also  enter  into  reverse  repurchase  agreements  as  a
source of short-term liquidity. These are short-term borrowings from
securities  dealers  and  require  the  Bank  to  repurchase  the  securities
typically in a few days. 

The  primary  source  of  new  funding  is  the  issuance  of  deposit
instruments.  A  summary  of  outstanding  deposits  by  contractual
maturity date is presented in Tables 14 and 15.

October 31, 2005
Demand deposits
Notice deposits
Deposits payable on a fixed date
Total

October 31, 2004 Total

Table 15 - Total Deposit Maturities

($ millions)

October 31, 2005
Demand deposits
Notice deposits
Deposits payable on a fixed date
Total

October 31, 2004 Total

$

$

$

Within 
1 Month
271
1,016 
752 
2,039

1,400

2 to 3 
Years 
–
– 
384 
384

536

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

1 to 3 
Months 
–
– 
436 
436

217

3 to 4
Years 
–
– 
170 
170

287

$

$

$

$

$

$

3 Months
to 1 Year
–
– 
1,071 
1,071

904

4 to 5 
Years 
–
– 
129 
129

162

$

$

$

$

$

$

Cumulative 
Within 1 Year
271
1,016
2,259
3,546 

2,521 

Total 
271 
1,016 
3,626 
4,913 

4,268 

Within 
1 Year 
271
1,016 
2,259 
3,546

2,521

$

$

$

1 to 2 
Years 
–
– 
684 
684

762

A breakdown of deposits by source is provided in Table 12. Target limits
by  source  have  been  established  as  part  of  the  overall  liquidity  policy
and  are  monitored  to  ensure  an  acceptable  level  of  diversification  in
sources  of  funding  is  maintained.  The  Bank  continues  to  aggressively
pursue deposits through its branch network as the core funding source.
However, the total dollar value of agent-generated deposits could still
increase  even  though  funding  from  this  source  has  decreased  as  a

percentage  of  total  deposit  liabilities.  CWT  raises  deposits  through
notice  accounts,  comprised  primarily  of  cash  balances  held  in  self-
directed accounts and corporate trust deposits, and through the Bank’s
branch  network.  At  October  31,  2005,  trust  notice  account  balances
totalled $277 million (2004 - $147 million), and $74 million (2004 - $74
million) of CWT fixed term deposits had been raised through the Bank’s
branch network.

CLEAR THINKING   CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT 31

In addition to deposit liabilities, CWB has subordinated debentures outstanding that are presented in the table below.

Table 16 - Subordinated Debentures Outstanding

($ thousands)

Interest
Rate
Conventional
6.85%(1)
5.66%(2)
5.96%(2)
5.55%(3)

Convertible
5.50%(4)

Total

Maturity
Date

June 30, 2012
July 7, 2013
October 24, 2013
November 19, 2014

Earliest Date
Redeemable or
Convertible by CWB

June 30, 2007
July 7, 2008
October 24, 2008
November 19, 2009

March 31, 2008

March 31, 2003

$

2005

3,126
30,000 
35,000
60,000 
128,126 

2004

3,126 
30,000 
35,000 
– 
68,126 

–
128,126

$

42,474 
110,600 

$

$

(1) This conventional debenture has a 10-year term with a fixed interest rate for the first five years. Thereafter, unless the terms are amended or the debenture is

redeemed by the Bank, interest will be payable at a rate equal to the Canadian Dollar CDOR 90 day Bankers’ Acceptance rate plus 100 basis points.

(2) These conventional debentures have a 10-year term with a fixed interest rate for the first five years. Thereafter, the interest rate will be reset quarterly at the Canadian

Dollar CDOR 90 day Bankers’ Acceptance rate plus 175 basis points.

(3) These conventional debentures have a 10-year term with a fixed interest rate for the first five years. Thereafter, the interest rate will be reset quarterly at the Canadian

Dollar CDOR Bankers’ Acceptance rate plus 160 basis points.

(4) These debentures were convertible into common shares at the option of the holder at any time prior to maturity, or the date specified for redemption by the Bank,

whichever was earlier, at a conversion price of $15.25 per share (2004 – 2,785,192 post-stock dividend shares). On November 5, 2004, the Bank announced its intention
to redeem all of the outstanding debentures for common shares on December 14, 2004. Under the terms of the trust indenture, the trustee converted all remaining
outstanding debentures into common shares on the last day before the redemption date. Interest expense, net of tax, accrued on the debentures prior to conversion and
forfeited by the debenture holder of $260 (2004 – $51) was credited to retained earnings.

Subsequent to year-end on November 21, 2005, the Bank issued $70 million of conventional subordinated debentures with a fixed interest rate of 5.426%
until November 21, 2010. Thereafter, the rate will be reset quarterly at the 90-day Bankers’ Acceptance rate plus 180 basis points until maturity on
November  21,  2015.  The  Bank  may  redeem  the  debentures  on  or  after  November  22,  2010  with  the  approval  of  the  Office  of  the  Superintendent  of
Financial Institutions (OSFI). 

Capital Management

Highlights of 2005

• Total capital adequacy ratio of 12.4%, and a Tier 1 ratio of 9.7% comprised entirely of common shareholders’ equity, net of goodwill.

• Increased quarterly dividend by 20% in December 2004 to $0.09 per common share and a further 11% in June 2005 to $0.10 per common share.

• Issued $60 million of conventional subordinated debentures in November 2004.

• Paid a stock dividend in January 2005 effecting a two for one split of common shares.

• All outstanding convertible debentures totalling $42.5 million converted into 2.8 million (post-stock dividend) common shares by December 2004.

Subsequent Highlights

• Issued  $70  million  of  conventional  subordinated  debentures  which  on  a  pro  forma  basis  would  increase  the  total  capital  adequacy  ratio  to  13.9% 

at October 31, 2005.

• Announced 20% increase to quarterly dividend to $0.12 per common share payable in early January 2006.

32 CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT      CLEAR THINKING

OSFI  requires  banks  to  measure  capital  adequacy  in  accordance  with
instructions  for  determining  risk-adjusted  capital  and  risk-weighted
assets  including  off-balance  sheet  commitments.  Based  on  the
deemed credit risk of each type of asset, a weighting of 0% to 100% is
assigned.  As  an  example,  a  loan  that  is  fully  insured  by  the  Canadian
Mortgage and Housing Corporation is applied a risk weighting of 0% as
the  Bank’s  risk  of  loss  is  nil,  while  uninsured  commercial  loans  are
assigned  a  risk  weighting  of  100%  to  reflect  the  higher  level  of  risk
associated with this type of asset. The ratio of regulatory capital to risk-
weighted  assets  is  calculated  and  compared  to  OSFI’s  standards  for
well-capitalized  financial  institutions.  Off-balance  sheet  assets,  such
as derivatives, are  included  in  the calculation of risk-weighted assets
and both the credit risk equivalent and the risk weight calculations are
prescribed by OSFI. The Bank’s investment in CDI is deducted from total
capital  and  CDI’s  assets  are  excluded  from  the  calculation  of  risk-
weighted assets.

Published regulatory guidelines require banks to maintain a minimum
ratio of capital to risk-weighted assets and off-balance sheet items of
8%,  of  which  4%  must  be  core  capital  (Tier  1)  and  the  remainder
supplementary capital (Tier 2). However, in order to be considered well
capitalized,  OSFI  has  stated  that  Canadian  banks  need  to  maintain  a
minimum total capital adequacy ratio of 10% with a Tier 1 ratio of not
less  than  7%.  CWB’s  Tier  1  capital  is  comprised  entirely  of  common
shareholders’  equity  and  Tier  2  capital  includes  subordinated
debentures  (to  the  regulatory  maximum  amount  of  50%  of  Tier  1
capital) and an inclusion of the general allowance for credit losses at a
prescribed  inclusion  rate  based  on  risk-weighted  assets.  OSFI  has

Table 17 - Capital Structure and Regulatory Ratios at Year-end

authorized  the  inclusion  of  the  Bank’s  general  allowance  in  Tier  2A
capital to a maximum of 87.5 basis points of risk-weighted assets. 

The  revised  international  framework  for  capital  measurement  and
standards,  known  as  Basel  II,  was  published  in  June  2004.  Basel  II
introduces some significant changes to the risk-weighting of assets and
calculation  of  regulatory  capital.  OSFI  expects  the  Canadian  banking
industry to adopt Basel II at the end of fiscal 2007. Basel II is not expected
to  have  a  significant  impact  on  the  Bank’s  overall  required  level  of
regulatory capital, although new procedures and system enhancements
are under development to conform with the new framework.

Capital funds are managed in accordance with policies and plans that
are  regularly  reviewed  and  approved  by  the  Board  of  Directors  and
which take into account forecasted capital needs and markets. The goal
is  to  maintain  adequate  regulatory  capital  to  be  considered  well
capitalized,  to  protect  customer  deposits  and  to  provide  capacity  for
internally  generated  growth  and  strategic  opportunities  that  do  not
otherwise require accessing the public capital markets, while providing
a satisfactory return on equity for shareholders. 

The  Bank  has  a  stock  option  plan  that  is  provided  as  an  incentive  to
officers and employees who are in a position to materially impact the
longer term financial success of the Bank as measured by share price
appreciation  and  dividend  yield.  Note  16  to  the  consolidated  financial
statements  details  the  number  of  shares  under  options  outstanding,
the  weighted  average  exercise  price  and  the  amounts  exercisable  at
year-end.

($ thousands)

Tier 1 Capital

Capital stock
Contributed surplus
Retained earnings
Less goodwill of trust subsidiary

Total
Tier 2 Capital

General allowance for credit losses (Tier A)(1)
Subordinated debentures (Tier B)

Total

Less investment in insurance subsidiary

Total Regulatory Capital
Regulatory Capital to Risk-weighted Assets

Tier 1 capital
Tier 2 capital
Less investment in insurance subsidiary

Total Regulatory Capital Adequacy Ratio
Assets to Regulatory Capital Multiple(2)

2005

2004

Change from
2004

$

$

213,098
2,810 
242,082 
(3,679)
454,311 

36,462  

128,126
164,588 
(33,430)
585,469

9.7%
3.4%
(0.7)%
12.4%
9.8  

$

167,125

$

1,159  
199,305  
(3,679) 
363,910  

28,816  
110,600  
139,416  
(28,205) 
475,121

$

9.0%
3.5%
(0.7)%
11.8%
10.3  

$

45,973  
1,651  
42,777  

–

90,401  

7,646  
17,526  
25,172  
(5,225) 
110,348  

0.7%
(0.1)%
(0.0)%
0.6%
(0.5) 

(1) Banks are allowed to include their general allowance for credit losses up to a prescribed percentage of risk-weighted assets in Tier 2A capital. The Bank has been

granted an inclusion rate to a maximum of 0.875% of risk-weighted assets. At October 31, 2005, the Bank’s general allowance represented 0.77% (2004 - 0.72%) of risk-
weighted assets.

(2) Total assets plus off-balance sheet credit instruments, such as letters of credit and guarantees, less goodwill divided by total regulatory capital.

CLEAR THINKING   CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT 33

Table 18 - Risk-weighted Assets

($ thousands)

Balance Sheet Assets
Cash resources
Securities
Loans
Other assets

Credit Instruments(1) (contract amounts)

Guarantees and standby letters of credit
Commitments to extend credit(2)

Derivative Financial Instruments(3) (notional amounts)

Interest rate contracts
Foreign exchange contracts
Equity contracts

Total Risk-weighted Assets

(1) See Note 20 to the consolidated financial statements for further details.
(2) Greater than one year only.
(3) See Note 25 to the consolidated financial statements for further details.

At October 31, 2005, the total capital adequacy ratio was 12.4% (2004 –
11.8%) of which 9.7% (2004 – 9.0%) was Tier 1 capital. Total regulatory
capital  increased  $110  million  over  2004  primarily  as  a  result  of  the
combination of:

• the issue of $60.0 million of subordinated debentures; 

• earnings, net of dividends, of $42.8 million;

• an increase in the general allowance for credit losses of $7.6 million;

• the  issue  of  $3.5  million  in  share  capital  upon  the  exercise  of

employee stock options;

• an  increase  in  contributed  surplus  of  $1.7  million  related  to  the

expensing of stock-based compensation; partially offset by 

• a  $5.2  million  increase  in  the  deduction  for  CWB’s  insurance

subsidiary investment, calculated on the equity basis.

impacting  regulatory  capital  was 

Also, 
the  conversion  of 
$42.5  million  of  convertible  debentures  in  December  2004,  which
resulted  in  an  increase  in  Tier  1  capital  and  a  corresponding
decrease in Tier 2 capital.

Outlook for Capital Management

Balance

236,154
702,906 
4,627,203 
138,765 
5,705,028 

127,608 
205,574 
333,182

607,500 
2,214 
14,540 
624,254 

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

2005
Risk-
weighted 

43,811
201,433 
4,185,963 
97,647 
4,528,854

74,830 
102,787 
177,617 

738
5 
339 
1,082 
4,707,553

$

$

$

$

$

$

Balance

232,726
540,487
4,005,080
140,602 
4,918,895 

94,270 
157,027
251,297 

882,500
996 
17,765 
901,261 

$

$

2004
Risk- 
weighted 

43,647 
134,346 
3,637,520 
71,103 
3,886,616 

56,953 
78,514 
135,467 

1,526 

–   

299 
1,825 
4,023,908 

In  December  2004,  the  quarterly  dividend  was  increased  to  $0.09  per
share, reflecting an increase of 20%. The quarterly dividend was further
increased to $0.10 per share in June 2005. 

Subsequent Events – Capital Management

On  November  21,  2005,  $70  million  of  conventional  subordinated
debentures  were  issued  to  institutional  investors.  These  debentures
have  a  fixed  interest  rate  of  5.426%  until  November  21,  2010  and  a
floating  interest  rate  of  180  basis  points  above  the  90-day  Bankers’
Acceptance  rate  thereafter  until  maturity  on  November  21,  2015.  The
Bank  may  redeem  all,  but  not  less  than  all,  of  the  debentures  on  or
after  November  21,  2010  with  the  approval  of  the  Superintendent  of
Financial  Institutions.  The  main  purpose  of  the  issue  was  to  increase
total  regulatory  capital  to  support  current  and  future  asset  growth
without diluting the existing common shareholder base. The issuance
of these debentures would result in a pro forma total capital adequacy
ratio of 13.9% at October 31, 2005.

On December 8, 2005, a quarterly cash dividend of $0.12 per share was
declared, an increase of 20%. 

CWB  expects  to  remain  well  capitalized  in  2006.  An  ongoing  objective  is  to  increase  return  on  equity  through  the  expansion  of  CWB’s  key  business
strategies and by improving the mix of regulatory capital between dilutive and non-dilutive capital required to support growth.

34 CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT      CLEAR THINKING

Financial Instruments and Other Instruments

On-balance  sheet  financial  assets  and  liabilities  are  classified  as
securities,  loans,  deposits  and  subordinated  debentures  and  are
reported  at  amortized  cost.  The  risks  associated  with  these
instruments  are  described  under  the  credit  quality,  liquidity  and  risk
management  sections  of  this  management’s  discussion  and  analysis.
Market values for the securities held for liquidity purposes are reported
in  Note  4  to  CWB’s  consolidated  financial  statements  for  fiscal  2005.
Fair values for all of CWB’s on- and off-balance sheet financial assets
and  liabilities  are  provided  in  Notes  24  and  25,  respectively,  to  the
consolidated financial statements. Income and expenses are classified
as  to  source,  either  securities  or  loans  for  income,  and  deposits  or
borrowed funds for expense. Trading gains or losses, which result from
the disposition of financial instruments prior to their maturity date, are
shown separately in other income.

Acquisitions

At the end of April 2004, CDI and Valiant were acquired for total cash
consideration  of  $33.7  million.  The  results  of  operations  of  these

companies  have  been  included  in  the  Bank’s  consolidated  financial
statements since their dates of acquisition. CDI operates in the property
and  casualty  insurance  industry  offering  personal  home  and  auto
insurance  directly  to  consumers  in  British  Columbia  and  Alberta.
Valiant  is  a  non-deposit  taking,  specialty  trust  company  based  in
Calgary,  Alberta  that  provides  stock  transfer  and  corporate  trustee
services to public companies and income trusts. For more information
on these acquisitions, refer to Note 3 of CWB’s consolidated financial
statements.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

In the normal course of business, CWB is involved in off-balance sheet
arrangements,  which  are  in  two  main  categories:  derivative  financial
instruments and guarantees.

Derivative Financial Instruments

More detailed information on the nature of off-balance sheet derivative
financial  instruments  is  shown  in  Note  25  to  CWB’s  consolidated
financial statements.

Table 19 - Derivative Financial Instruments

($ thousands)

Notional Amounts

Interest rate contracts(1)
Equity contracts(2)
Foreign exchange contracts(3)

Total

2005 

2004 

$

$

607,500
14,540 
2,414 
624,454

$

$

882,500 
17,765 
996 
901,261 

(1) Interest rate contracts are used as hedging devices to manage interest rate risk. The outstanding contracts mature between December 2005 and September 2008. The
total gross positive replacement cost of interest rate contracts was $676 (2004 - $3,918). This market value represents an unrealized gain, or the payment the Bank
would receive if these contracts were unwound and settled at that date.

(2) Equity contracts are used to offset the return paid to depositors on certain deposit products where the return is linked to a stock index. The outstanding contracts

mature between February 2006 and March 2010. The total gross positive replacement cost was $530 (2004 - $73).

(3) U.S. dollar foreign exchange contracts are used from time to time to manage the difference between U.S. dollar assets and liabilities. At October 31, 2005, there were

$1,881US (2004 – $783US) forward foreign exchange contracts outstanding that mature between November 2005 and February 2006.

The  active  use  of  interest  rate  contracts  continues  to  be  an  integral
part  of  the  management  of  the  Bank’s  short-term  positive  gap
position.  Off-balance  sheet  derivative  financial  instruments  are  only
entered  into  for  the  Bank’s  own  account  and  it  does  not  act  as  an
intermediary in this market. Transactions are entered into on the basis
of industry standard contracts with approved counterparties subject to
periodic and at least annual review. Policies regarding the use of off-
balance  sheet  financial  instruments  are  approved,  reviewed,  and
monitored on a regular basis by ALCO and reviewed and approved by
the Board of Directors at least annually.

Guarantees

Significant  guarantees  provided  by  CWB  in  the  ordinary  course  of
business  include  guarantees  and  standby  letters  of  credit  provided  to
third parties and commitments to extend credit to customers. CWB also
issues business credit cards through an agreement with a third party
card  issuer  and  indemnifies  the  card  issuer  from  loss  if  there  is  a
default on the issuer’s collection of the business credit card balances.
More  detailed  information  on  guarantees  is  available  in  Note  20  to
CWB’s consolidated financial statements for 2005.

CLEAR THINKING   CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT 35

OPERATING SEGMENT REVIEW

With the acquisition of CDI the Bank now operates in two business segments: 1) banking and trust, and 2) insurance.

Banking and Trust

Highlights of 2005

• Record net income which increased 18% over the prior year.

• Sixteenth consecutive year of double-digit loan growth at 17%.

• Branch and trust deposits increased 35%, with the lower cost demand and notice component up 51%.

• Two branches were added to the network in British Columbia and significant expansion of two existing branches were undertaken.

The operations of the banking and trust segment include commercial
and  retail  banking  services  as  well  as  personal  and  corporate  group
trust services provided through the Bank’s wholly owned subsidiaries,
CWT and Valiant. With a focus on mid-market commercial banking, real
estate  financing,  industrial  equipment  financing  and  energy  lending,
CWB has built strong customer relationships and provides value-added
services  to  businesses  in  key  sectors  across  the  west.  The  Bank  also
delivers  a  wide  variety  of  financial  products  and  services  including
deposit accounts, investment products, credit and debit cards, personal

loans  and  mortgages.  Customer  accessibility  is  provided  though  a
network  of  31  customer  focused  branches  as  well  as  via  the  Internet
and  telephone  banking.  CWT  provides  a  varied  range  of  products  and
services,  including  self-directed  RRSPs  and  RRIFs  and  corporate  and
group  trust  services  to  independent  financial  advisors,  corporations
and  individuals.  Through  Valiant,  a  non-deposit  taking  specialty  trust
company,  trust  services  now  include  stock  transfer  and  corporate
trustee services provided to public companies and income trusts.

Table 20 - Banking and Trust Highlights

($ thousands)

Net interest income (teb)(1)
Other income
Total revenues (teb)
Provision for credit losses
Non-interest expenses
Provision for income taxes (teb)
Net Income

Efficiency ratio (teb)
Net interest margin (teb)
Average loans ($ millions)
Average assets ($ millions)

(1) See page 18 for a discussion of teb.
(2) bp - basis point.

2005
137,936
31,721
169,657
10,100
82,382
27,906
49,269

48.6%
2.68%

4,218
5,139

$

$

$
$

2004
116,280
28,134
144,414
9,390
71,510
21,924
41,590

49.5%
2.58%

3,761
4,510

$

$

$
$

Change from
2004 

19%
13%
17%
8%
15%
27%
18%

(90)bp(2)
(10)bp
12%
14%

This segment’s net income for fiscal 2005 was a record $49.3 million,
an  increase  of  18%  over  2004.  The  increased  earnings  reflect  total
revenue (teb) growth of $25.2 million (17%), partially offset by a $10.9
million (15%) increase in non-interest expenses and a 27% increase in
income  tax  expense  as  2004  included  the  $1.6  million  tax  benefit
resulting  from  the  redemption  of  tax  advantaged  preferred  shares  in
which  CWB  had  an  investment.  Excluding  the  tax  benefit,  net  income
was up 23% over 2004. The growth in total revenues (teb) reflects loan
growth of 17% over the past year, 51% growth in lower cost demand and
notice deposits and additional trust fees of $2.0 million from Valiant, as
operations were included for the full year in 2005. Approximately $1.4
million  of  the  increase  in  non-interest  expenses  related  to  Valiant.

Excluding the impact of Valiant, non-interest expenses increased by 13%
due to additional costs from new branches and the expansion of other
branches, an increase in stock based compensation charges, increased
staffing levels due to business growth, annual salary adjustments and
various other initiatives. During 2005, two new branches were added to
the branch network in Vancouver and Kamloops, British Columbia with
significant expansion projects undertaken in two branches, one each in
Edmonton and Calgary, Alberta. 

The efficiency ratio (teb) for this segment at 48.6% was an improvement
over both the Bank’s target for 2005 of 50% or less and 49.5% last year
as total revenue growth exceeded non-interest expense growth. 

36 CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT      CLEAR THINKING

Non-interest  revenues  generated  from  trust  operations  totalled  $8.0
million in 2005, an increase of 29% over the prior year with the increase
reflecting the full year contribution from Valiant, acquired at the end of
the  second  quarter  in  2004.  Trust  operations,  through  CWT,  also
continue to provide a growing contribution to lower cost notice deposits.
Trust generated notice deposits totalled $277 million at the end of fiscal
2005, an increase of 88% over the prior year. Both CWT and Valiant hold
assets under administration which total approximately $2,649 million at
October 31, 2005, an increase of 51% over the prior year. Assets under
administration are not reflected in the consolidated balance sheet (see
also  Note  21  to  the  consolidated  financial  statements).  Effective  for
fiscal 2005, trust assets under administration are presented at market
value  which  is  standard  for  the  industry.  In  prior  years,  trust  assets
under  administration  were  presented  at  historical  cost.  Comparative
figures  have  not  been  restated  as  market  value  information  is  not
readily available. The change in presentation to market value accounted
for approximately 9% of the increase this year. A portion of these assets
are held in investment accounts, including self-directed RRSP and RRIF
accounts, which numbered 24,943 (2004 – 18,803), an increase of 33%
from one year ago. 

Outlook for Banking and Trust

Figure 5 - Number of Investment Accounts

2005

2004

2003

2002

2001

24,943

18,803

16,823

14,674

12,814

The growth prospects for this segment in 2006 are very good given the current positive economic outlook for Western Canada. This segment is expected
to produce strong revenue growth, supported by strong growth in loans and lower cost branch generated deposits, including through CWT. Trust fee
income is expected to show solid growth in both personal and corporate trust services. Credit quality is also expected to remain strong. 

Insurance

Highlights of 2005 

• Net earnings of $5.1 million for the first full year after acquisition.

• Claims loss ratio of 64% and a combined ratio of 91%.

• Number of policies increased by 11%.

• Policy retention rate of 86%.

Canadian Direct was launched in May 1996 and was the first company
in British Columbia to offer customers auto insurance directly over the
telephone, bypassing the traditional broker and agent. Canadian Direct
now provides auto, household and travel insurance products to 150,000
British Columbia and Alberta policyholders through two dedicated call
centres and over the Internet for auto and travel products. 

Canadian  Direct’s  mission  is  to  provide  customers  with  attractively
priced products and excellent customer service –“better insurance for
less  money”.  CDI’s  core  strategy  is  to  use  sophisticated  underwriting
selection criteria to offer more competitively priced insurance to better
risk  customers.  Products  are  offered  direct  to  the  customer  thereby
reducing  costs,  as  there  are  no  broker  commissions.  The  “Canadian
Direct  Insurance”  brand  is  marketed  using  TV,  radio  and  newspaper

channels and has a high level of awareness in the B.C. market, with a
growing  brand  awareness  in  the  Alberta  market.  All  claims  are
administered  by  Canadian  Direct’s  head  office  in  B.C.  using  modern
imaging technology and effective workflow management to maintain a
“paperless office” environment. This has enabled CDI to achieve a low
claims expense ratio without compromising high customer satisfaction
ratings.  CDI  currently  retains  a  high  percentage  of  its  business  on
renewal, which is a measure of its success in providing customers with
a superior level of service at a competitive price.

As  Canadian  Direct  was  acquired  at  the  end  of  the  second  quarter  of
2004, the following table includes financial information for this segment
beginning with the third quarter of 2004.

CLEAR THINKING   CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT 37

Table 21 - Insurance Highlights

($ thousands)

Net interest income (teb)(1)
Other income 

Net earned premiums
Commissions and processing fees
Net claims and adjustment expenses
Policy acquisition costs

Gain on sale of securities
Total revenues (teb)
Non-interest expenses
Provision for income taxes (teb)
Net income

Policies outstanding at October 31
Gross written premiums
Claims loss ratio(2)
Expense ratio(3)
Combined ratio(4)
Average cash and securities(5)
Average total assets(5)

2005
12 Months
2,384

$

$

2004
6 Months
957 

65,847 
6,575 
(42,447)
(14,244)
15,731 
244 
18,359 
10,174 
3,063 
5,122

149,947 
93,101

64%
27%
91%

68,435
127,298

$

$

$
$

27,362 
3,399 
(16,990)
(5,875)
7,896 
69 
8,922 
4,890 
1,461 
2,571 

135,201 
43,711 

62%
27%
89%

57,858 
114,138 

$

$

$
$

(1) See page 18 for a discussion of teb.
(2) Net claims and adjustment expenses as a percentage of net earned premiums.
(3) Policy acquisition costs and non-interest expenses net of commissions and processing fees as a percentage of net earned premiums.
(4) Sum of the claims loss and expense ratios.
(5) Average balances for 2004 are calculated for the six month period after acquisition.

Canadian  Direct  generated  net  income  of  $5.1  million  in  2005,
compared  to  $2.6  million  for  the  six  months  included  in  2004.  The
current  year’s  results  reflect  net  earned  premiums  of  $65.8  million, 
a  claims  loss  ratio  of  64%  (2004  –  62%)  and  a  combined  ratio  of  91%
(2004 – 89%). Losses from Canadian Direct’s mandatory participation in
the  Risk  Sharing  Pool  of  the  Alberta  Facility  Association  (Facility)  for
automobile insurance and the fact that the six month period in 2004 did
not  include  the  winter  driving  season,  were  direct  factors  in  both  the
increased  claims  loss  and  combined  ratios  this  year.  Excluding  the
Facility  losses,  the  claims  loss  and  combined  ratios  would  have  been
63%  and  90%  respectively.  During  the  year,  Canadian  Direct  grew  its
outstanding  policies  by  11%  with  increasing  market  acceptance  in
Alberta partially offset by the impact of competitive pressure in British
Columbia. The policy retention rate was strong at 86%. 

Canadian Direct’s earnings were negatively impacted in 2005 by losses
related  to  the  Facility  which  reduced  net  income  before  tax  by 
$0.5  million,  compared  to  a  negligible  impact  in  2004.  Unpaid  claims

reserves  in  the  Facility  were  increased  substantially  in  the  fourth
quarter to reflect revised estimated loss ratio assumptions derived by
the Facility’s consulting actuary. Canadian Direct is currently developing
strategies  to  minimize  the  adverse  impact  of  the  Facility  on  future
earnings.

Effective January 1, 2005, CDI reduced its quota share reinsurance to 20%
(from  25%)  of  gross  retentions,  including  unearned  premiums  as  at
December 31, 2004.

During the year, the Province of Alberta announced two reductions in
compulsory  automobile  insurance  premiums:  a  six  percent  reduction
effective for policies issued or renewed after July 1, 2005 and a further
four  percent  reduction  effective  for  policies  issued  or  renewed  after
November 1, 2005. In applications to the Superintendent of Insurance,
Canadian Direct successfully demonstrated that it is already a provider
of  low  cost  automobile  insurance  and  received  exemptions  from  both
rollbacks.

38 CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT      CLEAR THINKING

Outlook for Insurance Operations

Canadian Direct’s outlook for 2006 calls for continued growth in policies outstanding and net earned premiums. Challenges for the year will include
minimizing the earnings impact of CDI’s mandatory participation in the Facility and developing responses to the optional automobile pricing strategy of
the  Insurance  Corporation  of  British  Columbia,  the  provincial  provider  of  all  compulsory  automobile  insurance  and  a  competitor  in  the  optional
insurance market. Effective November 1, 2005, CDI reduced its quota share reinsurance to 10% of gross retentions. 

Overall, financial targets for 2006 include 10% growth in the number of policies outstanding, a claims loss ratio of 68% and a combined ratio of 93%.
Net earned premium growth will continue to be impacted by competitive pressures in British Columbia and regulatory developments in Alberta. The
forecasted increase in the claims loss ratio also reflects an expected return to historical claims experience levels. 

SUMMARY OF QUARTERLY RESULTS AND FOURTH QUARTER

Quarterly Results

The financial results for each of the last eight quarters are summarized in
the following table. In general, CWB’s results reflect a consistent growth
pattern.  An  exception  to  the  consistency  is  the  impact  of  the  previously
noted acquisitions of CDI and Valiant at the end of the second quarter of
2004. These acquisitions resulted in increased other income, non-interest
expenses and earnings beginning in the third quarter of fiscal 2004.

Canadian Direct’s business also exposes the Bank’s quarterly financial
results  to  some  fluctuations.  CDI  is  in  the  property  and  casualty 

Table 22 - Quarterly Financial Highlights

($ thousands, except per share amounts)

insurance  business,  providing  personal  auto  and  home  insurance
directly  to  customers  in  British  Columbia  and  Alberta.  The  operating
results for this business, which are primarily reflected in other income
(see  information  for  the  insurance  segment  provided  on  page  37)  are
subject  to  seasonal  weather  conditions  including  higher  claims
experience  during  winter  driving  months,  cyclical  patterns  of  the
industry  and  other  unpredictable  developments,  including  weather-
related and other natural catastrophes.

Net interest 

income (teb)(1)

Less teb adjustment
Net interest income 

per financial 
statements
Other income
Total revenues (teb)
Total revenues
Net income
Return on common 

shareholders’ equity 
(ROE)

Return on average 
total assets (ROA)

Earnings per 

common share(2)
Basic
Diluted

Efficiency ratio (teb)
Efficiency ratio
Net interest margin (teb)
Net interest margin
Provision for credit 

losses as a 
percentage of
average loans

Q4

2005

Q3

Q2

Q1

Q4

2004

Q3

Q2

Q1

$

37,408
1,336 

$

36,964
956 

$

33,306
883 

$

32,642
800 

$

30,756
1,313 

$

30,750
930 

$

27,855
854 

$

27,875 
801 

36,072 
12,087 
49,495 
48,159 
14,814 

36,008 
13,123 
50,087 
49,131 
15,212 

32,423 
11,349 
44,655 
43,772 
12,149 

31,842 
11,137 
43,779 
42,979 
12,216 

29,443 
10,895 
41,651 
40,338 
12,787 

29,820 
11,273 
42,023 
41,093 
11,675 

27,001 
7,303 
35,158 
34,304 
9,842 

27,074 
6,628 
34,503 
33,702 
9,857 

13.0%

13.8%

11.7%

12.1%

14.1%

13.4%

11.9%

12.1%

1.06%

1.13%

0.96%

0.97%

1.04%

1.01%

0.92%

0.89%

$

$

0.48
0.47 
49.4%
50.8%
2.67%
2.57%

$

0.50
0.49
47.0%
48.0%
2.75%
2.67%

$

0.40
0.39 
50.8%
51.9%
2.64%
2.57%

$

0.42
0.40 
49.9%
50.8%
2.59%
2.53%

$

0.47
0.43 
51.7%
53.4%
2.49%
2.39%

$

0.43
0.40 
50.0%
51.1%
2.65%
2.57%

$

0.37
0.34 
49.2%
50.4%
2.61%
2.53%

0.37 
0.34 
48.0%
49.2%
2.53%
2.45%

0.22%

0.23%

0.25%

0.25%

0.25%

0.25%

0.25%

0.25%

(1) See page 18 for a discussion of teb.
(2) A stock dividend effecting a two-for-one split of the Bank’s common shares was declared and paid during the first quarter of 2005. All prior period common share and

per common share information has been restated to reflect this effective split.

CLEAR THINKING   CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT 39

Fourth Quarter of 2005

In  the  fourth  quarter  of  fiscal  2005,  CWB  posted  strong  quarterly  net
income  and  also  marked  the  Bank’s  70th  consecutive  quarter  of
profitability. Net income for the quarter was $14.8 million, an increase
of 16% ($2.0 million) over the same quarter last year, which included a
$1.6  million  tax  benefit  ($0.05  per  diluted  share)  resulting  from  the
redemption  of  a  tax  advantaged  preferred  share  investment.  Net
income  before  taxes  increased  28%  over  the  same  quarter  last  year.
Excluding the impact of this tax benefit, net income increased by 32%.
The  quarter  included  record  earnings  from  core  banking  and  trust
operations  ($13.7  million)  and  a  $1.1  million  contribution  from
Canadian  Direct.  Canadian  Direct’s  net  insurance  revenues  for  the
quarter  were  negatively  impacted  by  a  $0.7  million  increase  in  the
allocation  of  losses  from  its  mandatory  participation  in  the  Alberta
Facility for automobile insurance.

Fourth quarter diluted earnings per share increased 9% to $0.47 ($0.48
basic) from $0.43 ($0.47 basic) in the same quarter last year. Excluding
the impact of the tax benefit, diluted earnings per share increased 16%.
Return on assets was 1.06%, compared to 1.04% in the same quarter
last year and return on equity was 13.0%, compared to 14.1% one year
ago.  The  16%  increase  in  fourth  quarter  earnings  did  not  produce  as
noticeable an increase in return on equity due to the conversion of $42.5
million of subordinated debentures into common shares that occurred
in the first quarter of 2005.

Net interest income (teb) was a record $37.4 million for the quarter, an
increase of 22% year over year. This increase reflects 17% loan growth
as  well  as  an  improvement  in  the  net  interest  margin  to  2.67%  from
2.49%. The improved margin reflects very strong growth of 51% in lower
cost  branch  generated  deposits  (which  reduces  funding  cost  by
improving deposit mix). 

Other income was $12.1 million, up 11% over the same quarter last year.
The increase reflects increases in credit related fees, trust fees and gains
on  sale  of  securities,  partially  offset  by  lower  net  insurance  revenues.
Canadian  Direct’s  results  for  the  quarter  were  reduced  by  increased
losses from the Facility. 

Credit  quality  remained  strong  with  the  fourth  quarter  provision  for
credit  losses  at  22  basis  points  of  average  loans,  a  decrease  from  25
basis points one year ago. 

Non-interest expenses were $24.4 million, an increase of 14% over the
same quarter last year. This increase is primarily due to the operating
expenses  of  two  new  branches  as  well  as  increased  staffing  levels
related  to  business  growth,  annual  salary  adjustments  and  other
initiatives.  Also  contributing  to  the  increase  was  additional  non-cash
stock-based compensation charges. CWB’s industry leading efficiency
ratio (teb), which measures non-interest expenses as a percentage of
total  revenues,  was  49.4%  for  the  quarter,  compared  to  51.7%  in  the
fourth quarter last year. 

Fourth  quarter  earnings  decreased  3%  from  the  third  quarter  record
earnings  of  $15.2  million  primarily  due  to  lower  interest  penalties  on
early loan payouts which returned to more normal interest levels and
the  Facility  losses  noted  above.  Total  net  interest  income  was
unchanged as the decrease in net interest margin to 2.67% from 2.75%
due  to  the  lower  volume  of  interest  penalties  was  offset  by  a  4%
increase  in  average  interest  earning  assets.  In  comparison  to  the
previous  quarter,  other  income  decreased  8%  ($1.0  million)  due  to

40 CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT      CLEAR THINKING

lower net insurance revenues related to the Facility losses, as well as
lower  credit  fees  and  gains  on  security  sales.  Non-interest  expenses
increased  due  to  premises  costs  associated  with  expansions  and
relocations and certain human resources costs. 

ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES

Critical Accounting Estimates 

CWB’s  significant  accounting  policies  are  outlined  in  Note  1  of  the
consolidated  financial  statements.  The  policies  discussed  below  are
considered particularly important as they require management to make
significant  estimates  or  judgments,  some  of  which  may  relate  to
matters that are inherently uncertain.

Allowance for Credit Losses

losses 

in  the 

issues  with  respect  to  single  borrowers.  Changes 

An allowance for credit losses is maintained to absorb probable credit
related 
loan  portfolio.  This  allowance  reflects
management’s  estimate  of  probable  losses  in  the  loan  portfolio  at  the
balance  sheet  date.  In  assessing  existing  credit  losses,  management
must  rely  on  estimates  and  exercise  judgment  regarding  matters  for
which  the  ultimate  outcome  is  unknown.  These  matters  include
economic  factors,  developments  affecting  particular  industries  and
in
specific 
circumstances  may  cause  future  assessments  of  credit  risk  to  be
significantly  different  than  current  assessments  and  may  require  an
increase or decrease in the allowance for credit losses. Establishing a
range for the allowance for credit losses is difficult due to the number of
uncertainties  involved.  This  uncertainty  is  captured  within  the  general
allowance  for  credit  losses.  At  October  31,  2005,  the  Bank’s  total
allowance  for  credit  losses  was  $42.5  million  (2004  –  $39.3  million),
which included a specific allowance of $6.0 million (2004 – $10.5 million)
and  a  general  allowance  of  $36.5  million  (2004  –  $28.8  million).
Additional information on the process and methodology for determining
the allowance for credit losses can be found in the discussion of credit
quality  on  page  26  of  this  Management’s  Discussion  and  Analysis  and
Note  1(g)  to  the  consolidated  financial  statements.  This  critical
accounting estimate relates to CWB’s banking and trust segment.

Provision for Unpaid Claims and Adjustment Expenses

A  provision  for  unpaid  claims  is  maintained,  with  the  provision
representing the amounts needed to provide for the estimated ultimate
expected cost of settling claims related to insured events (both reported
and  unreported)  that  have  occurred  on  or  before  each  balance  sheet
date.  A  provision  for  adjustment  expenses  is  also  maintained  which
represents  the  estimated  ultimate  expected  costs  of  investigating,
resolving  and  processing  these  claims.  Estimated  recoveries  of  these
costs from reinsurance ceded are included in assets. The computation
of  these  provisions  takes  into  account  the  time  value  of  money  using
discount rates based on projected investment income from the assets
supporting the provisions. The process of determining the provision for
unpaid claims and adjustment expenses necessarily involves risks that
the  actual  results  will  deviate  from  the  best  estimates  made.  These
risks vary in proportion to the length of the estimation period and the
volatility of each component comprising the liabilities. To recognize the
uncertainty  in  establishing  these  best  estimates  and  to  allow  for
possible deterioration in experience, actuaries are required to include
explicit  margins  for  adverse  deviation  in  assumptions  for  asset
defaults,  reinvestment  risk,  claims  development  and  recoverability  of

in  circumstances  may  cause 

reinsurance  balances.  All  provisions  are  periodically  reviewed  and
evaluated  in  the  light  of  emerging  claim  experience  and  changing
future
circumstances.  Changes 
assessments  of  unpaid  claims  and  adjustment  expenses  to  be
significantly  different  than  current  assessments  and  may  require  an
increase  or  decrease  in  the  provision.  In  estimating  the  provision  for
unpaid  claims  and  adjustment  expenses,  a  number  of  uncertainties 
are taken into account and assumptions made, which makes it difficult 
to  estimate  a  range  for  the  provision.  Further,  as  noted  above, 
the provision includes a margin for adverse deviations in assumptions. 
At  October  31,  2005,  the  provision  for  unpaid  claims  and  adjustment
expenses  totalled  $50.0  million  (2004 – $37.0  million).  Additional
information  on  the  process  and  methodology  for  determining  the
provision for unpaid claims and adjustment expenses can be found in
Notes 1(j) and 17 to the consolidated financial statements. This critical
estimate relates to CWB’s insurance segment, Canadian Direct.

Changes in Accounting Policies Including Initial Adoption

Changes  to  significant  accounting  policies  since  October  31,  2004  are
provided  in  Note  2  to  the  2005  consolidated  financial  statements.
Specifically, the changes in fiscal 2005 related to new requirements for
the  consolidation  of  variable  interest  entities,  the  presentation  of
certain  obligations  as  either  liabilities  or  equity  and  asset  retirement
obligations. There was no impact on CWB’s financial statements from
these changes.

Future Changes in Accounting Policies

New accounting standards have been issued for Financial Instruments
– Recognition and Measurement, Hedges and Comprehensive Income
which  are  effective  for  the  Bank  as  of  November  1,  2006.  As  a  result
of  adopting  those  standards  a  new  category,  Other  Comprehensive
Income,  will  be  added  to  Shareholders’  Equity  and  certain  unrealized
gains  or  losses  will  be  reported  in  other  comprehensive  income
until  realization.  The  impact  of  these  new  standards  on  the  Bank’s
financial  statements  is  not  yet  determined  as  it  will  be  dependent  on
the  Bank’s  outstanding  positions  and  their  fair  values  at  the  time  of
implementation.

RISK MANAGEMENT

Overview

Effective risk management is central to the ability to remain financially
sound and profitable and includes identifying, assessing, managing and
monitoring all forms of risk. CWB is exposed to several categories of
risk  including:  strategic,  reputation,  credit,  liquidity,  structural
(asset/liability), market, fiduciary, insurance, operational and litigation.
Additional  information  on  risk  factors  is  available  in  CWB’s  Annual
Information  Form  dated  January  14,  2006  which  will  be  available  on
SEDAR at www.sedar.com. 

Senior management is responsible for establishing the framework for
identifying risks and developing appropriate risk management policies
and frameworks. The Board of Directors, either directly or through its
committees,  reviews  and  approves  the  key  policies  and  implements
specific  reporting  procedures  to  enable  them  to  monitor  ongoing
compliance  over  significant  risk  areas.  At  least  annually,  a  report  on
risks and risk management policies is presented to the Board and/or
Board committees for review and assessment.

The  Loans  Committee  of  the  Board,  which  maintains  a  close  working
relationship with the credit risk management group, is responsible for:

• the review and approval of credit risk management policies;

• the review and approval of loans in excess of delegated limits;

• the  review  and  monitoring  of  impaired  and  other  less  than

satisfactory loans; and

• the  recommendation  of  the  adequacy  of  the  allowance  for  credit

losses to the Audit Committee.

The Asset Liability Committee (ALCO) provides management oversight
related to the risks of banking and trust operations, other than credit
risk. ALCO is a management committee chaired by the executive with
responsibility  for  Treasury,  with  the  President  and  Chief  Executive
Officer  (CEO)  and  other  senior  executives  as  members,  and  is
responsible for:

• ensuring that risks other than credit risk are identified and assessed

and appropriate policies are in place and effective;

• the  establishment  and  maintenance  of  policies  and  programs  for
liquidity  management  and  control,  funding  sources,  investments,
foreign exchange risk, interest rate risk and derivatives, trust services
risk; and

• regular meetings to review compliance and discuss strategy respecting

diversification of product offerings and management of risks.

Asset liability management policies are approved and reviewed at least
annually by the Board with quarterly status reporting also provided.

The  Operations  Committee  meets  regularly  and  is  made  up  of
supervisory  and  management  personnel  from  all  areas  of  banking
operations  and  is  chaired  by  a  member  of  senior  management.  This
committee  is  responsible  for  developing  appropriate  policies  and
procedures, including internal controls, respecting day-to-day, routine
banking operations.

The internal audit department performs inspections in all areas of the
Bank, including CWT, Valiant and CDI, and reports the results directly
to  senior  management,  as  well  as  the  Bank’s  CEO  and  Audit
Committee.  For  CDI,  inspection  results  are  also  reported  directly  to
CDI’s Audit Committee.

Credit Risk

Credit  risk  is  the  risk  that  a  financial  loss  will  be  incurred  due  to  the
failure  of  a  counterparty  to  discharge  its  contractual  commitment  or
obligation  to  the  Bank.  This  risk  can  relate  to  balance  sheet  assets,
such as loans, as well as off-balance sheet assets such as guarantees
and  letters  of  credit.  To  diversify  the  risk,  the  exposure  to  a  single
borrower  or  associated  borrowers  is  limited,  unless  approved  by  the
Board of Directors, to an amount not exceeding 10% of common equity
plus retained earnings.

The  Bank  employs  and  is  committed  to  a  number  of  important
principles to manage credit exposures which include:

• a  Loans  Committee  of  the  Board  whose  duties  include  approval  of
lending  policies,  establishment  of  lending  limits  for  the  Bank,  the
delegation of lending limits and the approval of larger credits as well
as  quarterly  reports  prepared  by  management  on  watch  list  loans,
impaired  loans,  the  adequacy  of  the  allowance  for  credit  losses,
environmental risk and diversification of the portfolio;

CLEAR THINKING   CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT 41

• delegated  lending  authorities  which  are  clearly  communicated  to
personnel engaged in the credit granting process, a defined approval
process  for  loans  in  excess  of  those  limits  and  the  review  of  larger
credits  by  a  senior  management  group  prior  to  recommendation  to
the Loans Committee of the Board;

• credit policies, guidelines and directives which are communicated to
all branches and officers whose activities and responsibilities include
credit granting and risk assessment;

• appointment  of  personnel  engaged  in  credit  granting  who  are

qualified, experienced bankers;

• a  standardized  credit  risk  rating  classification  established  for  all

credits and reviewed not less than annually;

(corporate loans) through participation in selected syndications, which
are generally led by the major Canadian banks. In addition to being able
to  lend  to  larger  companies,  this  initiative  also  provides  a  degree  of
geographic diversification.

Liquidity Risk

Liquidity risk is the risk that CWB will not have sufficient cash to meet
its obligations as they become due. This risk arises from fluctuations in
cash flows from lending, deposit taking, investing and other activities.
Effective liquidity management ensures that adequate cash is available
to  honour  all  cash  outflow  obligations.  Maintenance  of  a  prudent
liquidity base also provides flexibility to fund loan growth and react to
other market opportunities.

• annual  reviews  of  individual  credit  facilities  (excepting  consumer

Liquidity policies include:

loans and single-unit residential mortgages);

• quarterly  review  of  risk  diversification  by  geographic  area,  industry

sector and product measured against assigned portfolio limits;

• pricing  of  credits  commensurate  with  risk  to  ensure  appropriate

• measurement and forecast of cash flows;

• maintenance of a pool of high quality liquid assets;

• a stable base of core deposits from retail and commercial customers;

compensation;

• limits on single deposits and sources of deposits;

• management of growth within quality objectives;

• diversification of funding sources; and

• early recognition of problem accounts and immediate implementation

• an approved contingency plan.

of steps to protect the safety of Bank funds;

• independent reviews of credit valuation, risk classification and credit
management procedures by the internal audit group which includes
reporting the results to senior management, the CEO and the Audit
Committee; 

• detailed  quarterly  reviews  of  accounts  rated  less  than  satisfactory,

including establishment of an action plan for each account; and 

• completion of a watch list report recording accounts with evidence of
weakness,  an  impaired  loan  report  covering  loans  which  show
impairment to the point where a loss is possible.

Environmental Risk

The  operations  of  the  Bank  do  not  have  a  material  effect  on  the
environment.  However,  a  risk  of  default  may  occur  if  a  borrower 
is  unable  to  repay  loans  due  to  environmental  clean  up  costs.  The 
Bank may become directly liable for cleanup costs when it is deemed 
to  have  taken  control  or  ownership  of  a  contaminated  property.  Risk
assessment  criteria  and  procedures  are  in  place  to  manage
environmental risks and these are communicated to lending personnel.
Reports  on  environmental  inspections  and  findings  are  reviewed  by
senior management and reported upon quarterly to the Board.

Key features of liquidity management are:

• daily monitoring of expected cash inflows and outflows and tracking
and  forecasting  the  liquidity  position,  including  the  flows  from  off-
balance sheet items, on a forward four month rolling basis;

• consideration  of  the  term  structure  of  assets  and  liabilities,  with
emphasis  on  deposit  maturities,  as  well  as  expected  loan  fundings
and other commitments to provide funds when determining required
levels of liquidity; and

• separate management of the liquidity position of the Bank and CWT to

ensure compliance with related party and other regulatory tests.

Market Risk

Market  risk  is  the  impact  on  earnings  resulting  from  changes  in
financial market variables such as interest rates and foreign exchange
rates.  Market  risk  arises  when  making  loans,  taking  deposits  and
making  investments.  The  Bank  itself  does  not  undertake  trading
activities and, therefore, does not have risks related to such activities as
market making, arbitrage or proprietary trading. The Bank’s material
market  risks  are  confined  to  interest  rates  and  foreign  exchange  as
discussed below.

Portfolio Quality

Interest Rate Risk

The  Bank’s  strategy  is  to  maintain  a  quality  portfolio.  Efforts  are
directed toward achieving a wide diversification, engaging experienced
personnel who provide a hands on approach in credit granting, account
management  and  quick  action  when  problems  develop.  The  lending
focus is primarily directed to small and medium-sized businesses and
to individuals with operations conducted in the four western provinces.
Relationship banking and “know your customer” are important tenets
of account management. An appropriate financial return on the level of
risk  is  fundamental.  The  Bank  also  participates  in  larger  credits

Interest  rate  risk  or  sensitivity  can  be  defined  as  the  impact  on  net
interest  income,  both  current  and  future,  resulting  from  a  change  in
market  interest  rates.  This  risk  and  potential  variability  in  earnings
arises  primarily  when  cash  flows  associated  with  interest  sensitive
assets and liabilities have different repricing dates. The differentials, or
interest  rate  gaps,  arise  as  a  result  of  the  financial  intermediation
process  and  reflect  differences  in  term  preferences  on  the  part  of
borrowers and depositors.

42 CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT      CLEAR THINKING

A positive interest rate gap exists when interest sensitive assets exceed
interest sensitive liabilities for a specific maturity or repricing period. A
positive gap will result in an increase in net interest income when market
interest rates rise since assets are repricing earlier than liabilities. The
opposite impact will occur when market interest rates fall. 

To  manage  interest  rate  risk  arising  as  a  result  of  the  financial
intermediation process, ALCO establishes policy guidelines for interest
rate gap positions and meets regularly to monitor the Bank’s position
and decide future strategy. The objective is to manage the interest rate
risk within prudent guidelines. Interest rate risk policies are approved
and reviewed at least annually by the Board of Directors with quarterly
reporting provided to the Board as to the gap position.

Exposure to interest rate risk is controlled by managing the size of the
static  gap  positions  between  interest  sensitive  assets  and  interest
sensitive liabilities for future periods. Gap analysis is supplemented by
computer simulation of the asset liability portfolio structure and dollar
estimates of net interest income sensitivity for periods of up to one year.
The  interest  rate  gap  is  measured  at  least  monthly.  Note  23  to  the
consolidated financial statements shows the consolidated gap position
at October 31, 2005 for selected time intervals. 

The  gap  analysis  in  Note  23  is  a  static  measurement  of  interest  rate
sensitive gaps at a specific time. These gaps can change significantly in
a short period of time. The impact of changes in market interest rates
on  earnings  will  depend  upon  the  magnitude  and  rate  of  change  in
interest  rates  as  well  as  the  size  and  maturity  structure  of  the
cumulative  interest  rate  gap  position  and  management  of  those
positions over time.

During the year, the one year and under cumulative gap decreased to
negative  2.4%  from  positive  0.2%  and  the  one  month  and  under  gap
increased to 0.6% from 0.3%. At year-end, gaps were slightly negative
although  we  anticipate  that  the  Bank’s  asset/liability  position  will
continue such that rising interest rates would generally be neutral to or
increase net interest income.

Interest  sensitive  assets  matched  against  interest  sensitive  liabilities
are  managed  on  a  relatively  risk  neutral  duration  basis.  Non-interest

rate sensitive assets, liabilities and shareholders’ equity are managed
at a target duration of between two and three years.

Of  the  $2,259  million  in  fixed  term  deposit  liabilities  maturing  within
one year from October 31, 2005, approximately $2,216 million (46% of
total deposit liabilities) mature by April 30, 2006 (as shown in Table 14).
The term in which maturing deposits are retained will have an impact
on the future asset liability structure and hence interest rate sensitivity.
Approximately $216 million of the fixed term deposit liabilities maturing
within one month are floating rate redeemable deposits with a one year
contractual maturity, redeemable without penalty at any time.

The estimated sensitivity of net interest income to a change in interest
rates  is  presented  in  Table  23.  The  amounts  represent  the  estimated
change  in  net  interest  income  over  the  time  period  shown  resulting
from a one percentage point change in interest rates. If rates increase,
the  effect  would  be  an  increase  in  net  interest  income  while  the
opposite would occur if rates decrease. The estimates are based on a
number of assumptions and factors, which include:

• a constant structure in the asset liability portfolio;

• interest rate changes affect interest sensitive assets and liabilities by the
same amount and are applied at the appropriate repricing dates; and

• no early redemptions.

Year-over-year  interest  sensitivity  remained  relatively  constant  as
noted in Table 23.

It is management’s intention to continue to manage the asset liability
structure  and  interest  rate  sensitivity  through  pricing  and  product
policies to attract appropriate assets and liabilities as well as through
the use of interest rate swaps or other appropriate hedging techniques
(see  discussion  under  Derivative  Financial  Instruments).  Assets  and
liabilities having a term to maturity in excess of five years are subject to
specific  review  and  control  and,  with  the  exception  of  subordinated
debentures,  were  not  material.  The  subordinated  debentures,  which
are  typically  redeemed  (subject  to  OSFI  approval)  after  five  years,  are
discussed in Note 14 to the consolidated financial statements.

Table 23 - Estimated Sensitivity of Net Interest Income as a Result of a One Percentage Point Change in Interest Rates

($ thousands)
Period
90 days
1 year
1 year percentage change

Foreign Exchange Risk

In  providing  financial  services  to  its  customers,  the  Bank  has  assets
and liabilities denominated in U.S. dollars. At October 31, 2005, assets
denominated  in  U.S.  dollars  were  1.4%  (2004  –  0.8%)  of  total  assets 
and  U.S.  dollar  liabilities  were  1.4%  (2004  –  0.8%)  of  total  liabilities.
Currencies other than U.S. dollars are not bought or sold other than to
meet specific customer needs and therefore, the Bank has no exposure
to currencies other than U.S. dollars.

Foreign exchange risk arises when there is a difference between assets
and liabilities denominated in U.S. dollars. Policy is established setting
a limit on the difference between U.S. dollar assets and liabilities. The
difference  is  measured  daily  and  managed  by  use  of  U.S.  dollar

$

$

2005
417 
1,010 

0.7%

2004 
219 
963 
0.8%

contracts or other means. Policy respecting foreign exchange exposure
is  reviewed  and  approved  at  least  annually  by  the  Board  of  Directors,
and deviations from policy are reported to the Board and ALCO.

Insurance Risk

With the acquisition of CDI in April 2004, CWB became exposed to the
elements  of  risk  associated  with  the  property  and  casualty  insurance
business  which  can  cause  fluctuations  and  uncertainties  in  CDI’s
profitability. The insurance business involves various types of insurance
related risk, in particular: underwriting risk, pricing risk, claims risk,
reinsurance  risk  and  regulatory  risk.  Policies  and  procedures  have
been  established  to  manage  insurance  related  risk,  as  well  as  other

CLEAR THINKING   CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT 43

categories  of  risk  to  which  CDI  is  exposed.  CDI’s  Board  of  Directors,
either  directly  or  through  a  Board  committee,  is  responsible  for
reviewing  and  approving  key  policies  and  implementing  reporting
requirements to monitor compliance over significant areas.

Underwriting  risk  is  the  risk  of  financial  loss  due  to  inappropriate
selection of customers and is reduced through controls built into CDI’s
rating  and  underwriting  system.  These  controls  include  eligibility
audits and a review by senior staff of exceptions. Pricing risk is the risk
that  products  may  be  inappropriately  priced  due  to  actual  experience
not matching the assumptions made at the time pricing is determined.
This  is  mitigated  by  regular  underwriting  reviews  of  product  rate
adequacy. Regulatory intervention may also impact rate adequacy.

Claims risk includes the risk of financial loss due to adverse deviation
in the amount, frequency or timing of claims. Policies and procedures
are  in  place  to  ensure  that  properly  trained  staff  handle  claims.
However, the process for establishing the provision for unpaid claims
may  reflect  significant  judgment  and  uncertainty,  especially  with
respect to liability claims. Factors such as inflation, claims settlement
patterns, legislative activity and litigation trends may impact the actual
claims amount as the claims are adjusted over time.

The  risk  that  CDI  might  be  exposed  to  single  large  claims  or  to  an
accumulation of claims resulting from a natural catastrophe, such as a
weather related or seismic event, is mitigated by reinsurance treaties
that  protect  CDI  from  such  risks.  Reinsurance  risk  includes  the  risk
that  reinsurance  counterparties  are  not  financially  strong  and  that
underwriting strategies are inappropriately matched with reinsurance
programs.  CDI’s  reinsurance  is  only  purchased  from  reinsurers
meeting a certain minimum security rating. CDI’s reinsurance treaties
are properly matched to underwriting strategies through participation
of  senior  underwriting  staff  in  the  process.  CDI  is  dependent  on  the
availability  and  pricing  of  its  external  reinsurance  arrangements  and
this availability and global markets may impact pricing. If CDI is unable
to renew such arrangements at favourable rates and to adequate limits
then  CDI  may  need  to  modify 
its  underwriting  practices  or
commitments.

In  addition,  as  the  insurance  business  is  heavily  regulated,  CDI  is
exposed  to  regulatory  risk.  This  is  evidenced  by  the  recent  provincial
government  changes  to  auto  insurance  in  Alberta.  This  risk  is
countered mainly by monitoring current developments and by actively
participating in relevant bodies and associations in order to contribute
CDI’s perspective.

Operational Risk

Operational risk is inherent in all business activities, including banking,
trust and insurance operations. It is the potential for loss as a result of
external  events,  human  error  or  inadequacy  or  failure  of  processes,
procedures  or  controls.  Its  impact  can  be  financial  loss,  loss  of
reputation, loss of competitive position or regulatory penalties. CWB is
exposed to operational risk from internal business activities and from
activities that are outsourced. The financial measure of operational risk
is actual losses incurred. No material losses occurred in 2005 or 2004.

Strategies to minimize and manage operational risk include:

• a knowledgeable and experienced management team that is committed

to the risk management policies;

44 CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT      CLEAR THINKING

• regular  meetings  of  the  Operations  Committee,  a  management
committee made up of supervisory and management personnel from
all  banking  operational  areas  and  chaired  by  a  member  of  senior
management,  which  is  responsible  for  the  development  and
recommendation  of  policies  and  procedures  regarding  day-to-day,
routine banking operations;

• communication of the importance of effective risk management to all

levels of staff through training and policy implementation;

• regular inspections for compliance and the effectiveness of procedural

controls by a strong, independent internal audit team;

• centralized reporting of operating losses for risk assessment;

• implementation  of  policies  and  procedural  controls  appropriate  to
address identified risks and which include segregation of duties and
built-in checks and balances;

• use of technology via automated systems with built-in controls;

• continual review and upgrade of systems and procedures; and

• updated  and  tested  procedures  and  contingency  plans  for  disaster

recovery and business continuity.

In  addition,  the  external  auditors  provide  management  and  the  Audit
Committee  with  any  recommendations  for  improvements  to  internal
controls  or  procedures  identified  during  their  annual  examination  of 
the  consolidated  financial  statements.  CWB  also  maintains  appropriate
insurance coverage through a financial institution bond policy.

Litigation Risk

It is possible that litigation, and in particular class action litigation, may
increase in Canada as a result of changes in Canadian securities laws.
Litigation risk is also inherent in each of the business lines of the Bank,
including  trust  services  where  CWT  and  Valiant  act  as  trustee.
Litigation  risk  cannot  be  eliminated,  even  if  there  is  no  legal  cause 
of  action.  To  mitigate  litigation  risk,  the  Bank  and  its  subsidiaries
continuously monitor and review their processes and procedures.

UPDATED SHARE INFORMATION

As  at  November  30,  2005,  the  Bank  had  30,613,634  common  shares
outstanding.  In  addition,  employee  stock  options  have  been  issued
which  are  or  will  be  exercisable  for  up  to  2,398,012  common  shares
(2,892,388 authorized) for maximum proceeds of $47.0 million.

On December 8,  2005, a quarterly cash dividend of $0.12 per share was
declared  payable  on  January  5,  2006  to  shareholders  of  record  on
December 15, 2005.

CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

As of October 31, 2005, an evaluation was carried out of the effectiveness
of  the  Bank’s  disclosure  controls  and  procedures  as  defined  in
Multilateral  Instrument  52-109.  Based  on  that  evaluation,  the  Chief
Executive  Officer  and  Chief  Financial  Officer  concluded  that  the  design
and operation of those disclosure controls and procedures were effective. 

This  Management’s  Discussion  and  Analysis  is  dated  as  of  December 
8, 2005.

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

information  presented  which 

MANAGEMENT’S RESPONSIBILITY FOR FINANCIAL REPORTING
The  consolidated  financial  statements  of  Canadian  Western  Bank  and
related  financial  information  presented  in  this  annual  report  have  been
prepared by management, who are responsible for the integrity and fair
presentation  of  the 
includes  the
consolidated  financial  statements,  Management’s  Discussion  and
Analysis  (MD&A)  and  other  information.  The  consolidated  financial
statements  were  prepared  in  accordance  with  Canadian  generally
accepted  accounting  principles  including  the  requirements  of  the  Bank
Act  and  related  rules  and  regulations  issued  by  the  Superintendent  of
Financial  Institutions  Canada.  The  MD&A  has  been  prepared  in
accordance  with  the  requirements  of  securities  regulators,  including
National Instrument 51-102 of the Canadian Securities Administrators.

The  consolidated  financial  statements,  MD&A  and  related  financial
information  reflect  amounts  which  must,  of  necessity,  be  based 
on  informed  estimates  and  judgments  of  management  with  appropriate
consideration  to  materiality.  The  financial  information  presented
elsewhere in this annual report is fairly presented and consistent with that
in the consolidated financial statements.

Management  has  designed  the  accounting  system  and  related  internal
controls and supporting procedures are maintained, to provide reasonable
assurance  that  financial  records  are  complete  and  accurate,  assets  are
safeguarded and the Bank is in compliance with all regulatory requirements.
These  supporting  procedures  include  the  careful  selection  and  training  of
qualified  staff,  defined  division  of  responsibilities  and  accountability  for
performance, and the written communication of policies and guidelines of
business conduct and risk management throughout the Bank.

The  system  of  internal  controls  is  also  supported  by  the  internal  audit
department  which  carries  out  periodic  inspections  of  all  aspects  of  the
Bank’s operations. The Chief Internal Auditor has full and free access to
the Audit Committee and to the external auditors.

Larry M. Pollock
President and Chief Executive Officer
December 8, 2005

AUDITOR’S REPORT

To The Shareholders of Canadian Western Bank

We  have  audited  the  Consolidated  Balance  Sheets  of  Canadian  Western
Bank as at October 31, 2005 and 2004 and the Consolidated Statements of
Income, Changes in Shareholders’ Equity and Cash Flow for the years then
ended.  These  consolidated  financial  statements  are  the  responsibility  of
the  Bank’s  management.  Our  responsibility  is  to  express  an  opinion  on
these consolidated financial statements based on our audits.

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

The Audit Committee, appointed by the Board of Directors, is comprised
entirely  of  independent  directors  who  are  not  officers  or  employees 
of  the  Bank.  The  Committee  is  responsible  for  reviewing  the  financial
statements  and  annual  report,  including  management’s  discussion  and
analysis of operations and financial condition, and recommending them to
the Board of Directors for approval. Other key responsibilities of the Audit
Committee include meeting with management, the Chief Internal Auditor
and the external auditors to discuss the effectiveness of internal controls
over  the  financial  reporting  process  and  the  planning  and  results  of  the
external  audit.  The  Committee  also  meets  regularly  with  the  Chief
Internal Auditor and the external auditors without management present.

The Conduct Review Committee, appointed by the Board of Directors, is
composed  of  directors  who  are  not  officers  or  employees  of  the  Bank.
Their  responsibilities  include  reviewing  related  party  transactions  and
reporting to the Board of Directors those transactions which may have a
material impact on the Bank.

The Superintendent of Financial Institutions Canada, at least once a year,
makes  such  examination  and  enquiry  into  the  affairs  of  the  Bank  as  he
may deem necessary or expedient to satisfy himself that the provisions of
the  Bank  Act,  having  reference  to  the  safety  of  the  depositors  and
policyholders of the Bank, are being duly observed and that the Bank is in
a sound financial condition.

Deloitte  &  Touche  LLP,  the  independent  auditors  appointed  by  the
shareholders  of  the  Bank,  have  performed  an  audit  of  the  consolidated
financial statements and their report follows. The external auditors have
full and free access to, and meet periodically with, the Audit Committee to
discuss their audit and matters arising therefrom.

Tracey C. Ball, CA
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

In our opinion, these consolidated financial statements present fairly, in
all material respects, the financial position of the Bank as at October 31,
2005 and 2004 and the results of its operations and its cash flow for the
years  then  ended  in  accordance  with  Canadian  generally  accepted
accounting principles. 

Deloitte & Touche LLP
Chartered Accountants
Edmonton, Alberta
December 1, 2005

CLEAR THINKING   CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT 45

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

As at October 31
($ thousands)

Assets
Cash Resources

Cash
Deposits with regulated financial institutions
Cheques and other items in transit

Securities

Issued or guaranteed by Canada
Issued or guaranteed by a province or municipality
Other securities

Securities Purchased under Resale Agreements
Loans 

Residential mortgages
Other

Allowance for credit losses

Other

Land, buildings and equipment
Goodwill
Intangible assets
Insurance related
Other assets

Total Assets

Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
Deposits

Payable on demand
Payable after notice
Payable on a fixed date

Other

Cheques and other items in transit
Insurance related
Other liabilities

Subordinated Debentures

Conventional
Convertible

Shareholders’ Equity

Capital stock
Contributed surplus
Retained earnings

Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity

Jack C. Donald
Chairman

46 CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT      CLEAR THINKING

(Note 4)

(Note 5)

(Note 6)

(Note 7)
(Note 8)
(Note 8)
(Note 9)
(Note 10)

(Note 11)

(Note 12)
(Note 13)

(Note 14)

(Note 15)

2005

2004 

$

$

$

2,759
228,441 
4,954 
236,154 

327,744 
139,235 
235,927 
702,906 
36,940

944,122 
3,688,661 
4,632,783
(42,520)
4,590,263 

19,575 
6,933
3,766
56,955 
51,536 
138,765
5,705,028

271,121
1,015,867
3,626,319
4,913,307

19,990 
108,152 
77,463 
205,605 

128,126 
–  

128,126

2,831
229,895 

–   

232,726 

238,153 
148,555 
153,779 
540,487 
74,966 

700,791 
3,268,643 
3,969,434 
(39,320)
3,930,114 

18,499 
6,933 
4,309 
55,583 
55,278 
140,602 
4,918,895 

190,214 
662,518 
3,415,056 
4,267,788 

18,175 
90,427 
64,316 
172,918 

68,126 
42,474 
110,600 

213,098 
2,810 
242,082
457,990
5,705,028

$

167,125 
1,159 
199,305 
367,589 
4,918,895 

$

$

$

$

Larry M. Pollock
President and Chief Executive Officer

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

For the year ended October 31
($ thousands, except per share amounts)

Interest Income
Loans
Securities
Deposits with regulated financial institutions

Interest Expense
Deposits
Subordinated debentures

Net Interest Income
Provision for Credit Losses
Net Interest Income after Provision for Credit Losses
Other Income

Insurance, net
Credit related
Trust services
Retail services
Gains on sale of securities
Foreign exchange gains and other

Net Interest and Other Income
Non-interest Expenses

Salaries and employee benefits
Premises and equipment
Other expenses
Provincial capital taxes

Net Income before Provision for Income Taxes
Provision for income taxes
Net Income

Earnings Per Common Share(1)

Basic
Diluted

2005

2004 

247,926 
20,893 
4,395 
273,214 

129,318
7,551 
136,869 
136,345 
10,100
126,245

15,731 
15,710 
8,009 
5,797 
870
1,579 
47,696 
173,941 

56,608
16,764 
17,347 
1,837 
92,556
81,385
26,994 
54,391

1.80
1.74

$

$

$
$

218,597 
15,023 
4,565 
238,185 

118,087 
6,760 
124,847 
113,338 
9,390 
103,948 

7,896 
13,641 
6,208 
5,066 
1,685 
1,603 
36,099 
140,047 

45,998 
13,922 
14,487 
1,993 
76,400 
63,647 
19,486 
44,161 

1.65 
1.50

$

$

$
$

(Note 6)

(Note 17)

(Note 18)

(Note 19)

(1) A stock dividend effecting a two-for-one split of the Bank’s common shares was declared and paid in 2005. All prior period per common share information has been

restated to reflect this effective split.

CLEAR THINKING   CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT 47

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

(Note 15)

2005

2004 

$

$

167,125
42,474 
3,480 

19 
213,098 

1,159 
1,670 
(19)
2,810 

199,305 
54,391 
(11,573)
(301)

260 
242,082 
457,990

$

$

150,782 
11,351 
4,992 

–   

167,125 

252 
907 

–   

1,159 

165,197 
44,161 
(10,038)
(66)

51 
199,305 
367,589 

For the year ended October 31
($ thousands)

Capital Stock
Balance at beginning of year

Issued on debenture conversions
Issued on exercise of employee stock options
Transferred from contributed surplus on the exercise or 

exchange of options

Balance at end of year
Contributed Surplus
Balance at beginning of year

Amortization of fair value of employee stock options
Transferred to capital stock on the exercise or exchange of options

(Note 16)

Balance at end of year
Retained Earnings
Balance at beginning of year

Net income
Dividends
Share issue costs, net of income taxes of $166 (2004 – $37)
Interest forgone on conversion by debenture holders, net 

of income taxes of $140 (2004 – $30)

Balance at end of year
Total Shareholders’ Equity

48 CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT      CLEAR THINKING

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOW

For the year ended October 31
($ thousands)

Cash Flows from Operating Activities

Net income
Adjustments to determine net cash flows:

Provision for credit losses
Depreciation and amortization
Future income taxes, net
Gain on sale of securities, net
Accrued interest receivable and payable, net
Current income taxes payable, net
Other items, net

Cash Flows from Financing Activities

Deposits, net
Debentures issued
Common shares issued
Dividends

Cash Flows from Investing Activities

Interest bearing deposits with regulated financial institutions, net
Securities, purchased
Securities, sales proceeds
Securities, matured
Securities purchased under resale agreements, net
Loans, net
Land, buildings and equipment
Business acquisitions 

(Note 14)
(Note 15)

(Note 3)

Change in Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Year
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Year *
* Represented by:
Cash resources
Non-operating, interest bearing deposits with regulated financial institutions
Cheques and other items in transit (included in Other Liabilities)

Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Year

Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information

Amount of interest paid in the year
Amount of income taxes paid in the year

2005

2004 

$

54,391

$

44,161 

10,100 
5,333 
(3,900)
(870)
(5,969)
14,912 
33,532 
107,529 

645,519 
60,000 
3,480 
(11,573)
697,426 

(17,807)
(1,380,634)
662,296
553,083
38,026
(670,249)
(5,866)
–
(821,151)
(16,196)
19,786
3,590

236,154
(212,574)
(19,990)
3,590

139,356
16,777

$

$

$

$
$

9,390 
4,291 
414 
(1,685)
(7,458)
(9,826)
(6,851)
32,436 

448,038 
– 
4,992 
(10,038)
442,992 

58,645 
(1,167,608)
152,088 
935,708 
(2,966)
(410,501)
(7,833)
(33,697)
(476,164)
(736)
20,522 
19,786 

232,726 
(194,765)
(18,175)
19,786 

129,426 
29,276 

$

$

$

$
$

CLEAR THINKING   CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT 49

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

October 31, 2005
($ thousands, except per share amounts)

1. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

c) Cash and Cash Equivalents

These  consolidated  financial  statements  have  been  prepared  in
accordance with subsection 308 (4) of the Bank Act which states that,
except  as  otherwise  specified  by  the  Office  of  the  Superintendent  of
Financial Institutions Canada (OSFI), the financial statements are to be
prepared  in  accordance  with  Canadian  generally  accepted  accounting
principles  (GAAP).  The  significant  accounting  policies  used  in  the
preparation  of  these  financial  statements,  including  the  accounting
requirements  of  OSFI,  are  summarized  below.  These  accounting
policies conform, in all material respects, to Canadian GAAP.

The  preparation  of  financial  statements  in  conformity  with  Canadian
GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that
affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the
financial  statements  and  the  reported  amount  of  revenues  and
expenses during the year. Key areas of estimation where management
has  made  subjective  judgments,  often  as  a  result  of  matters  that  are
inherently uncertain, include those relating to the allowance for credit
losses, the fair value of financial instruments, goodwill and intangible
assets, provision for unpaid claims and adjustment expenses, and the
future  income  tax  asset  and  liability.  Therefore,  actual  results  could
differ from these estimates.

a) Basis of Consolidation

The consolidated financial statements include the assets, liabilities and
results  of  operations  of  the  Bank  and  all  of  its  subsidiaries,  after  the
elimination  of  intercompany  transactions  and  balances.  Subsidiaries
are  defined  as  corporations  whose  operations  are  controlled  by  the
Bank and are corporations in which the Bank is the beneficial owner.
See Note 28 for details of the subsidiaries.

b) Business Combinations, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets 

Business  acquisitions  are  accounted  for  using  the  purchase  method.
Goodwill is the excess of the purchase price paid for the acquisition of
a  subsidiary  over  the  fair  value  of  the  net  assets  acquired,  including
identifiable  intangible  assets.  Goodwill  and  other  intangibles  with  an
indefinite  life  are  not  amortized,  but  are  subject  to  a  fair  value
impairment test at least annually. Other intangibles with a finite life are
amortized  to  the  statement  of  income  over  their  expected  lives  not
exceeding 10 years. These intangible assets are tested for impairment
whenever circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be
recoverable. Any impairment of goodwill or other intangible assets will
be  charged  to  the  consolidated  statement  of  income  in  the  period  of
impairment.

Cash and cash equivalents presented on the consolidated statements of
cash  flow  include  cash  and  non-interest  bearing  deposits  with  other
banks less cheques in transit.

d) Securities

Securities are held in either the investment account or the trading account.

Investment account securities are purchased with the original intention
to  hold  the  securities  to  maturity  or  until  market  conditions  render
alternative investments more attractive. Debt securities and preferred
shares  are  stated  at  amortized  cost  and  other  equity  securities  are
stated at cost or, if an impairment in value is other than temporary, at
net realizable value. Gains and losses realized on disposal of securities
and  adjustments  to  record  any  other  than  temporary  impairment  in
value  are  included  in  other  income.  Amortization  of  premiums  and
discounts  are  reported  in  interest  income  from  securities  in  the
consolidated statements of income.

Trading account securities, which are purchased for resale over a short
period  of  time,  are  carried  at  estimated  current  market  value.  Gains
and  losses  realized  on  disposal  and  adjustments  to  market  value  are
reported in other income in the consolidated statements of income in
the period during which they occur.

e) Securities Purchased Under Resale Agreements and

Securities Purchased Under Reverse Resale Agreements

Securities purchased under resale agreements represent a purchase of
Government  of  Canada  securities  by  the  Bank  effected  with  a
simultaneous  agreement  to  sell  them  back  at  a  specified  price  on  a
future date, which is generally short term. Securities purchased under
resale agreements are carried at cost. The difference between the cost
of  the  purchase  and  the  predetermined  proceeds  to  be  received  on  a
resale agreement is recorded as security interest income.

Securities  purchased  under  reverse  resale  agreements  represent  a
sale  of  Government  of  Canada  securities  by  the  Bank  effected  with  a
simultaneous  agreement  to  buy  them  back  at  a  specified  price  on  a
future  date,  which  is  generally  short  term.  Securities  sold  under
reverse resale agreements are carried at cost. The difference between
the  proceeds  of  the  sale  and  the  predetermined  cost  to  be  paid  on  a
resale agreement is recorded as deposit interest expense. There were
no securities purchased under reverse resale agreements outstanding
at year-end.

50 CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT      CLEAR THINKING

1. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

f) Loans

Loans are stated net of unearned income, unamortized premiums and
an allowance for credit losses (Note 1(g)).

Interest  income  is  recorded  on  the  accrual  basis  except  for  loans
classified  as  impaired.  Loans  are  determined  to  be  impaired  when
payments  are  contractually  past  due  90  days,  or  where  the  Bank  has
taken realization proceedings, or where the Bank’s management is of
the opinion that the loan should be regarded as impaired. An exception
may  be  made  where  management  determines  that  the  loan  is  well
secured and in the process of collection and the collection efforts are
reasonably  expected  to  result  in  either  repayment  of  the  loan  or
restoring  it  to  a  current  status  within  180  days  from  the  date  the
payment  went  in  arrears.  All  loans  are  classified  as  impaired  when  a
payment is 180 days in arrears other than loans guaranteed or insured
for  both  principal  and  interest  by  the  Canadian  government,  the
provinces or a Canadian government agency. These loans are classified
as impaired when payment is 365 days in arrears.

Impairment is measured as the difference between the carrying value
of the loan at the time it is classified as impaired and the present value
of  the  expected  cash  flows  (estimated  realizable  amount),  using  the
interest  rate  inherent  in  the  loan  at  the  date  the  loan  is  classified  as
impaired. When the amounts and timing of future cash flows cannot be
reliably  estimated,  either  the  fair  value  of  the  security  underlying  the
loan, net of any expected realization costs, or the current market price
for the loan may be used to measure the estimated realizable amount.
At the time a loan is classified as impaired, interest income will cease
to  be  recognized  in  accordance  with  the  loan  agreement,  and  any
uncollected but accrued interest will be added to the carrying value of
the  loan  together  with  any  unamortized  premiums,  discounts  or  loan
fees. Subsequent payments received on an impaired loan are recorded
as a reduction of the recorded investment in the loan. Impaired loans
are  returned  to  performing  status  when  the  timely  collection  of  both
principal and interest is reasonably assured and all delinquent principal
and  interest  payments  are  brought  current  and  all  charges  for  loan
impairment have been reversed.

Loan fees, net of directly related costs, are amortized to interest income
over the expected term of the loan when such fees are considered to be
an integral part of the return earned on the particular loan. Premiums
paid  on  the  acquisition  of  loan  portfolios  are  amortized  to  interest
income over the expected term of the loans.

g) Allowance for Credit Losses

An  allowance  for  credit  losses  is  maintained  which,  in  the  Bank’s
opinion, is adequate to absorb credit related losses in its loan portfolio.
The  adequacy  of  the  allowance  for  credit  losses  is  reviewed  at  least
quarterly.  The  allowance  for  credit  losses  is  deducted  from  the
outstanding loan balance.

The allowance for credit losses consists of specific provisions and the
general  allowance  for  credit  risk.  Specific  provisions  include  all  the
accumulated provisions for losses on identified impaired loans required
to reduce the carrying value of those loans to their estimated realizable
amount.  The  general  allowance  for  credit  risk  includes  provisions  for
future losses inherent in the portfolio that are not presently identifiable

by  management  of  the  Bank  on  an  account-by-account  basis.  The
general  allowance  for  credit  risk  is  established  by  taking  into
consideration historical trends in the loss experience during economic
cycles,  the  current  portfolio  profile,  estimated  losses  for  the  current
phase of the economic cycle and historical experience in the industry. 

Actual  write-offs,  net  of  recoveries,  are  deducted  from  the  allowance
for  credit  losses.  The  provision  for  credit  losses  in  the  consolidated
statements of income is charged with an amount sufficient to keep the
balance in the allowance for credit losses adequate to absorb all credit
related losses.

h) Land, Buildings and Equipment

Land  is  carried  at  cost.  Buildings,  equipment  and  furniture,  and
leasehold  improvements  are  carried  at  cost  less  accumulated
depreciation  and  amortization.  Depreciation  and  amortization  are
calculated primarily using the straight-line method over the estimated
useful life of the asset as follows: buildings – 20 years, equipment and
furniture – three to five years, and leasehold improvements – term of
the lease. Gains and losses on disposal are recorded in other income in
the year of disposal.

i) Deferred Financing Costs

Deferred  financing  costs  relating  to  the  issuance  of  debentures  are
amortized  on  a  straight-line  basis  over  the  expected  life  of  the
related debenture.

j)

Insurance Operations

Premiums Earned and Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs

Insurance premiums are included in other income on a daily pro rata basis
over the terms of the underlying insurance policies. Unearned premiums
represent  the  portion  of  premiums  written  that  relate  to  the  unexpired
term of the policies in force and are included in other liabilities.

Policy acquisition costs are those expenses incurred in the acquisition
of  insurance  business.  Acquisition  costs  comprise  advertising  and
marketing expenses, insurance advisor salaries and benefits, premium
taxes  and  other  expenses  directly  attributable  to  the  production  of
business.  Policy  acquisition  costs  related  to  unearned  premiums  are
only deferred, and included in other assets, to the extent that they are
expected to be recovered from unearned premiums and are amortized
to income over the periods in which the premiums are earned.

Unpaid Claims and Adjustment Expenses

The  provision  for  unpaid  claims  represents  the  amounts  needed  to
provide  for  the  estimated  ultimate  expected  cost  of  settling  claims
related  to  insured  events  (both  reported  and  unreported)  that  have
occurred  on  or  before  each  balance  sheet  date.  The  provision  for
adjustment expenses represents the estimated ultimate expected costs
of investigating, resolving and processing these claims. These provisions
are included in other liabilities and their computation takes into account
the  time  value  of  money  using  discount  rates  based  on  projected
investment income from the assets supporting the provisions.

All  provisions  are  periodically  reviewed  and  evaluated  in  the  light  of
emerging  claims  experience  and  changing  circumstances.  The
resulting changes in estimates of the ultimate liability are recorded as
incurred claims in the current period.

CLEAR THINKING   CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT 51

1. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

Reinsurance Ceded

Earned  premiums  and  claims  expenses  are  recorded  net  of  amounts
ceded  to,  and  recoverable  from,  reinsurers.  Estimates  of  amounts
recoverable  from  reinsurers  on  unpaid  claims  and  adjustment
expenses are recorded in other assets and are estimated in a manner
consistent with the liabilities associated with the reinsured policies.

k) Income Taxes

The  Bank  follows  the  asset  and  liability  method  of  accounting  for
income  taxes  whereby  current  income  taxes  are  recognized  for  the
estimated income taxes payable for the current year. Future tax assets
and  liabilities  represent  the  cumulative  amount  of  tax  applicable  to
temporary differences between the carrying amount of the assets and
liabilities,  and  their  values  for  tax  purposes.  Future  tax  assets  and
liabilities  are  measured  using  enacted  or  substantively  enacted  tax
rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those
temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. Changes
in future income taxes related to a change in tax rates are recognized in
income in the period of the tax rate change. All future income tax assets
are expected to be realized in the normal course of operations. 

l) Stock Option Plan

The  fair  value  based  method  has  been  adopted  to  account  for  stock
options  granted  to  employees  on  or  after  November  1,  2002.  The
estimated fair value is recognized over the applicable vesting period as
an  increase  to  both  salary  expense  and  contributed  surplus.  In
accordance  with  GAAP,  no  expense  is  recognized  for  options  granted
prior to November 1, 2002. When options are exercised, the proceeds
received and the applicable amount, if any, in contributed surplus are
credited to capital stock.  

offsetting  changes  in  fair  values  or  cash  flows  of  the  hedged  items.
Derivatives that qualify for hedge accounting are accounted for on the
accrual  basis.  Interest  income  received  or  interest  expense  paid  is
recognized  as  interest  income  or  expense,  as  appropriate,  over  the
term  of  the  hedge  contract.  Premiums  on  purchased  contracts  are
amortized  to  interest  expense  over  the  term  of  the  contract.  Accrued
interest receivable and payable and deferred gains and losses for these
contracts  are  recorded  in  other  assets  or  liabilities  as  appropriate.
Realized  and  unrealized  gains  or  losses  associated  with  derivative
instruments, which have been terminated or cease to be effective prior
to  maturity,  are  deferred  under  other  assets  or  other  liabilities,  as
appropriate,  and  amortized  into  income  over  the  original  hedged
period.  In  the  event  a  designated  hedged  item  is  terminated  or
eliminated prior to the termination of the related derivative instrument,
any realized or unrealized gain or loss on such derivative instrument is
recognized in other income.

o) Employee Future Benefits

All employee future benefits are accounted for on an accrual basis. The
Bank’s  contributions  to  the  group  retirement  savings  plan  and
employee share purchase plan totalled $3,697 (2004 – $3,493).

p) Earnings per Common Share

Basic earnings per common share is calculated based on the average
number  of  common  shares  outstanding  during  the  year.  Diluted
earnings  per  share  is  calculated  based  on  the  treasury  stock  method
which  assumes  that  any  proceeds  from  the  exercise  of  in-the-money
stock options would be used to purchase the Bank’s common shares at
the average market price during the year. Convertible debentures are
assumed to be converted into common shares at the beginning of the
year,  or  at  the  date  the  debenture  was  issued  if  later,  and  all  related
income statement charges are added back to earnings.

m) Translation of Foreign Currencies

2. CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated
into  Canadian  dollars  at  rates  prevailing  at  the  balance  sheet  date.
Revenues  and  expenses  in  foreign  currencies  are  translated  at  the
average  exchange  rates  prevailing  during  the  year.  Realized  and
unrealized gains and losses on foreign currency positions are included
in other income.

n) Derivative Financial Instruments

Interest  rate,  foreign  exchange  and  equity  contracts  such  as  futures,
options,  swaps  and  floors  are  entered  into  for  risk  management
purposes  in  accordance  with  the  Bank’s  asset  liability  management
policies.  It  is  the  Bank’s  policy  not  to  utilize  derivative  financial
instruments  for  trading  or  speculative  purposes.  Interest  rate  swaps
and floors are used to reduce the impact of fluctuating interest rates.
Equity  contracts  are  used  to  offset  the  return  paid  to  depositors  on
certain  deposit  products  that  are  linked  to  a  stock  index.  Foreign
exchange contracts are only used for the purposes of meeting needs of
clients or day-to-day business.

The Bank designates each derivative financial instrument as a hedge of
identified  assets  and  liabilities,  firm  commitments  or  forecasted
transactions.  On  an  ongoing  basis,  the  Bank  assesses  whether  the
derivatives  that  are  used  in  hedging  transactions  are  effective  in

52 CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT      CLEAR THINKING

Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities (VIEs)

The  Canadian  Institute  of  Chartered  Accountants  (CICA)  issued  an
accounting  guideline  effective  November  1,  2004.  The  guideline
provides  a  framework  for 
identifying  VIEs  and  requires  the
consolidation  of  VIEs  if  the  company  is  the  primary  beneficiary  of  the
VIE.  These  requirements  had  no  impact  on  the  Bank’s  financial
statement presentation.

Liabilities and Equity

Effective November 1, 2004, certain obligations that must or could be
settled with a variable number of the issuer’s own equity instruments
are  required  to  be  presented  in  the  financial  statements  as  liabilities
rather  than  equity.  These  requirements  had  no  impact  on  the  Bank’s
financial statement presentation.

Asset Retirement Obligations

Effective  November  1,  2004,  the  liability  for  an  asset  retirement
obligation relating to a long-lived asset must be recorded at fair value
in the period in which it is incurred and can be reasonably estimated.
The offset to the liability is capitalized as part of the carrying amount of
the related long-lived asset. These requirements had no impact on the
Bank’s financial statement presentation.

3. BUSINESS ACQUISITIONS

On April 30, 2004, the Bank acquired all the outstanding shares of HSBC Canadian Direct Insurance Incorporated (subsequently renamed Canadian
Direct  Insurance  Incorporated).  Canadian  Direct  Insurance  Incorporated  offers  property  and  casualty  insurance  directly  to  consumers  in  British
Columbia and Alberta. The Bank also acquired Valiant Trust Company on April 29, 2004 by purchasing all the outstanding shares of its holding company
Corporate Shareholder Services Inc. Valiant Trust Company is a non-deposit taking, specialty trust company based in Calgary, Alberta that provides
stock  transfer  and  corporate  trustee  services  to  public  companies  and  income  trusts.  The  results  of  operations  for  the  two  companies  have  been
included in the Bank’s consolidated financial statements since the dates of acquisition.

The  total  cost  of  the  acquisitions  of  $33,697  was  paid  in  cash.  The  following  table  summarizes  the  fair  value  of  the  assets  acquired  and  liabilities
assumed:

Net Assets Acquired
Cash resources
Securities
Other assets
Other intangible assets
Goodwill
Other liabilities, including future income tax liability of $1,718
Total

$

$

9,537 
48,036 
55,626 
4,580 
6,933 
(91,015)
33,697

The  cash  resources  acquired  were  included  in  interest  bearing  deposits  with  regulated  financial  institutions  on  the  consolidated  statement  of  cash
flows.  The  identified  intangible  assets  include  a  trademark,  a  non-competition  agreement,  computer  software  and  customer  relationships.  The
trademark, which has a value of $300, is not subject to amortization. Goodwill includes $3,679 related to the banking and trust segment and $3,254
related to the insurance segment. The total amount of goodwill and intangible assets will not be deductible for income tax purposes. 

4. SECURITIES

The analysis of securities at carrying value, by type and maturity, is as follows:

Securities

Issued or guaranteed by Canada
Issued or guaranteed by a province or municipality

Other debt securities
Equity securities

Preferred shares
Other equity

Total (1)

(1) All securities are held in the investment account.
(2) Includes securities with no specific maturity.

Maturities

Within
1 Year

Over 1
to 3 Years

Over 3
to 5 Years

Over 5
Years

2005
Total
Book Value

2004
Total
Book Value

$ 281,544
82,115 
66,687 

$

41,915
50,033 
31,828 

$

–
–
430,346

$

9,218
–
132,994

$

$

1,570
2,439 
4,194 

25,230
–
33,433

$

2,715
4,648 
9,284 

$ 327,744
139,235 
111,993

$ 238,153 
148,555 
41,406 

86,637

2,849(2)

$

106,133

$

121,085
2,849
702,906

$

107,104
5,269
540,487 

CLEAR THINKING   CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT 53

4. SECURITIES (continued)

The analysis of unrealized gains and losses on investment securities is as follows:

2005

2004

Book
Value

Unrealized
Gains

Unrealized
Losses

Estimated
Market
Value

Book
Value

Unrealized
Gains

Unrealized
Losses

Estimated
Market
Value

$ 327,744

$

1

$

804

$ 326,941

$ 238,153

$

11

$

227

$ 237,937 

139,235 
111,993 

68 
96 

367 
424 

138,936
111,665

148,555 
41,406 

409 
50 

132 
38 

121,085 
2,849 
702,906

$

$

1,954 
– 
2,119

$

361 
614 
2,570  $

122,678
2,235 
702,455

$

107,104 
5,269 
540,487

$

1,564 
– 
2,034

$

739 
365 
1,501

$

148,832 
41,418 

107,929 
4,904 
541,020 

Securities issued or
guaranteed by:
Canada
A province or 
municipality
Other debt securities
Equity securities

Preferred shares
Other equity

Total

5. LOANS

Outstanding gross loans and impaired loans, net of allowances for credit losses, are as follows:

2005

Gross
Impaired
Amount

Specific
Allowance

Gross
Amount

$ 557,795
1,763,203 
889,569 
1,422,216 
$ 4,632,783

$

$

2,146
1,215 
3,036 
5,090 
11,487

$

$

579
722 
740
4,017 
6,058 

2004

Gross
Impaired
Amount

Specific
Allowance

Gross
Amount

$ 431,891
1,556,411 
724,853 
1,256,279 
$ 3,969,434

$

$

847
4,485 
4,819 
14,739 
24,890

$

$

386
1,494 
1,335 
7,289 
10,504 

Net
Impaired
Loans

$

1,567
493 
2,296 
1,073
5,429
(36,462)

$

(31,033)

Net
Impaired
Loans

$

461 
2,991 
3,484 
7,450 
14,386 
(28,816)

$

(14,430)

Consumer 

and personal

Real estate
Industrial
Commercial
Totals
General allowance(1)
Net impaired loans after
general allowance

(1) The general allowance for credit risk is available for the total loan portfolio.
(2) There are no foreclosed real estate assets held for sale.

Other past due loans are loans where payment of interest or principal is contractually 90 to 180 days in arrears or government insured loans where
payment of interest or principal is contractually not more than 365 days in arrears but are not classified as impaired because they are well secured and
considered fully collectible. There are no outstanding other past due loans. 

During the year, interest recognized as income on impaired loans totalled $645 (2004 – $449).

54 CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT      CLEAR THINKING

6. ALLOWANCE FOR CREDIT LOSSES

The following table shows the changes in the allowance for credit losses during the year.

Specific
Provisions
10,504
2,454 
(7,140)
240 
6,058 

$

$

2005

General
Allowance for
Credit Risk
28,816
7,646 
– 
– 
36,462

$

$

Balance at beginning of year
Provision for credit losses
Write-offs
Recoveries
Balance at end of year

7. LAND, BUILDINGS AND EQUIPMENT

Land
Buildings
Computer equipment
Office equipment and furniture
Leasehold improvements
Total

$

$

$

$

Depreciation and amortization for the year amounted to $4,787 (2004 – $4,020).

8. GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS

Goodwill
Identifiable intangible assets
Customer relationships
Trademark
Others

Total

$

$

Total
39,320
10,100
(7,140)
240
42,520

$

$

Specific
Provisions
7,807
8,132 
(5,745)
310 
10,504

$

Accumulated
Depreciation and
Amortization
–
2,551 
12,874 
7,134 
7,186 
29,745

$

Accumulated
Amortization
–

$

705 
– 
109 
814 
814

$

Cost
2,783
4,548 
17,422 
10,241 
14,326 
49,320

Cost
6,933

3,950 
300 
330 
4,580 
11,513

2004

General
Allowance for
Credit Risk
27,558
1,258 
– 
– 
28,816

2005
Net Book
Value
2,783
1,997 
4,548 
3,107 
7,140 
19,575

2005
Net Book
Value
6,933

3,245 
300 
221 
3,766
10,699

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

Total
35,365 
9,390 
(5,745)
310 
39,320 

2004
Net Book
Value
2,783 
2,288 
4,294 
2,874 
6,260 
18,499 

2004
Net Book
Value
6,933 

3,715 
300 
294 
4,309 
11,242 

Amortization of customer relationships and other intangible assets for the year amounted to $543 (2004 – $271). The trademark has an indefinite life
and is not subject to amortization. Goodwill includes $3,679 related to the banking and trust segment and $3,254 related to the insurance segment.
There were no writedowns of goodwill or intangible assets due to impairment during the years ended October 31, 2005 and 2004.

9.

INSURANCE RELATED OTHER ASSETS

Instalment premiums receivable
Reinsurers’ share of unpaid claims and adjustment expenses
Reinsurers’ share of unearned premiums
Deferred policy acquisition expenses
Recoverable on unpaid claims
Due from reinsurers
Total

$

$

2005
18,768
14,124 
9,254
7,432 
5,591
1,786
56,955

$

$

2004
16,588 
12,106 
10,670 
6,483 
4,888 
4,848 
55,583 

CLEAR THINKING   CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT 55

10. OTHER ASSETS

Accrued interest receivable
Future income tax asset
Prepaid expenses
Accounts receivable
Deferred financing costs(1)
Taxes receivable
Other
Total

(Note 18)

$

$

2005
19,752 $
12,455
7,651 
6,259
896
–
4,523
51,536

$

2004
16,270 
8,329 
9,473 
11,716 
1,076 
5,169 
3,245 
55,278 

(1) Amortization for the year amounted to $215 (2004 – $215). During the year, deferred financing costs of $467 (2004 – $103) were charged to retained earnings on the

conversion of debentures and were offset against forfeited interest (see also Note 14).

Individuals
14,947
400,279 
2,581,835 
2,997,061

Individuals
11,388
247,575
2,719,912 
2,978,875

$

$

$

$

Business and
Government
256,174
615,588 
1,028,510 
1,900,272

Business and
Government
178,826
414,943 
674,807 
1,268,576

$

$

$

$

(Note 18)

Financial
Institutions
–
–   

15,974 
15,974

Financial
Institutions
–
–   

20,337 
20,337

2005
50,012
47,938
7,183
3,019
108,152

2005
50,220
11,856 
9,623
1,674
1,108 
2,982 
77,463

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

2005
Total
271,121 
1,015,867 
3,626,319
4,913,307 

2004
Total
190,214 
662,518 
3,415,056 
4,267,788 

2004
36,970 
43,220 
7,116 
3,121 
90,427

2004
52,707 
726 
4,528 
1,727 
941 
3,687 
64,316 

11. DEPOSITS

Payable on demand
Payable after notice
Payable on a fixed date
Total

Payable on demand
Payable after notice
Payable on a fixed date
Total

12. INSURANCE RELATED OTHER LIABILITIES

Unpaid claims and adjustment expenses
Unearned premiums
Due to insurance companies
Unearned reinsurance commissions
Total

13. OTHER LIABILITIES

Accrued interest payable
Taxes payable
Accounts payable
Future income tax liability
Deferred revenue
Other
Total

56 CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT      CLEAR THINKING

14. SUBORDINATED DEBENTURES

Each of the following qualifies as a bank debenture under the Bank Act and is subordinate in right of payment to all deposit liabilities. All redemptions
are subject to the approval of the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI). 

Interest
Rate
Conventional
6.85%(1)
5.66%(2)
5.96%(2)
5.55%(3)

Convertible
5.50%(4)

Total

Maturity
Date

June 30, 2012
July 7, 2013
October 24, 2013
November 19, 2014

Earliest Date
Redeemable or
Convertible by CWB

June 30, 2007
July 7, 2008
October 24, 2008
November 19, 2009

March 31, 2008

March 31, 2003

2005

3,126
30,000
35,000 
60,000
128,126 

– 
–
128,126

$

$

2004

3,126 
30,000 
35,000 
– 
68,126 

42,474 
42,474 
110,600 

$

$

(1) This conventional debenture has a 10-year term with a fixed interest rate for the first five years. Thereafter, unless the terms are amended or the debenture is

redeemed by the Bank, interest will be payable at a rate equal to the Canadian Dollar CDOR 90 day Bankers’ Acceptance rate plus 100 basis points.

(2) These conventional debentures have a 10-year term with a fixed interest rate for the first five years. Thereafter, the interest rate will be reset quarterly at the Canadian

Dollar CDOR 90 day Bankers’ Acceptance rate plus 175 basis points.

(3) These conventional debentures have a 10-year term with a fixed interest rate for the first five years. Thereafter, the interest rate will be reset quarterly at the Canadian

Dollar CDOR Bankers’ Acceptance rate plus 160 basis points.

(4) These debentures were convertible into common shares at the option of the holder at any time prior to maturity, or the date specified for redemption by the Bank,

whichever was earlier, at a conversion price of $15.25 per share (2004 – 2,785,192 post-stock dividend shares). On November 5, 2004, the Bank announced its intention
to redeem all the outstanding debentures for common shares on December 14, 2004. Under the terms of the trust indenture, the trustee converted all remaining
outstanding debentures into common shares on the last day before the redemption date. Interest expense, net of tax, accrued on the debentures prior to conversion and
forfeited by the debenture holders of $260 (2004 – $51) was credited to retained earnings.

Subsequent to year-end, on November 21, 2005, the Bank issued $70,000 of conventional subordinated debentures. The debentures have a fixed interest
rate of 5.426% until November 21, 2010. Thereafter, the rate will be reset quarterly at the Canadian dollar CDOR 90-day Bankers’ Acceptance rate plus 180
basis points until maturity on November 21, 2015. The Bank may redeem the debentures on or after November 22, 2010 with the approval of the OSFI.

CLEAR THINKING   CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT 57

15. CAPITAL STOCK

Authorized:

An unlimited number of common shares without nominal or par value
33,964,324 class A shares without nominal or par value
25,000,000 first preferred shares without nominal or par value, issuable in series

Issued and fully paid:

Common shares

Outstanding at beginning of year
Issued on conversion of debentures
Issued on exercise or exchange of options
Transferred from contributed surplus on exercise 

or exchange of options
Outstanding at end of year

2005

Number
of Shares

$

27,330,260
2,785,144 
498,230 

–   

30,613,634

$

Amount

167,125
42,474 
3,480 

19 
213,098

2004

Number
of Shares

26,004,132 $
802,014 
524,114 

–   

27,330,260

$

Amount

150,782 
11,351 
4,992 

– 
167,125

A  stock  dividend  effecting  a  two-for-one  split  of  the  Bank’s  common  shares  was  declared  and  paid  during  2005.  All  prior  period  common  share
information has been restated to reflect this effective split.

The  Bank  is  prohibited  by  the  Bank  Act  from  declaring  any  dividends  on  common  shares  when  the  Bank  is  or  would  be  placed,  as  a  result  of  the
declaration, in contravention of the capital adequacy and liquidity regulations or any regulatory directives issued under the Act. These limitations do not
restrict the current level of dividends.

58 CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT      CLEAR THINKING

16. SHARE INCENTIVE PLAN

The Bank has authorized 2,892,388 (1) common shares (2004 – 2,532,618) for issuance under the share incentive plan. Of the amount authorized, options
exercisable into 2,390,012 shares (2004 – 2,521,470) are issued and outstanding. The options generally vest within three years and are exercisable at a
fixed price equal to the average of the market price on the day of and the four days preceding the grant. All options expire within 10 years of date of
grant. Outstanding options expire on dates ranging from May 2006 to September 2010.

A stock dividend effecting a two-for-one split of the Bank’s common shares was declared and paid during 2005. All prior period option and per option
information has been restated to reflect this effective split. 

The details of and changes in the issued and outstanding options follow:

Options
Balance at beginning of year
Granted 
Exercised
Forfeited
Balance at end of year

Exercisable at end of year

2005

2004

Number
of Options
2,521,470

541,050(1) 
(631,008)
(41,500)
2,390,012 

448,362

$

$

$

Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
14.93
31.26 
11.24
17.21
19.56

Number
of Options
2,307,984
757,000 
(524,114)
(19,400)
2,521,470

10.16

1,037,400

Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
12.01 
20.12 
9.53 
16.37 
14.93 

10.67 

$

$

$

(1) Of this amount, 247,624 options (750,000 authorized) are subject to shareholder and Toronto Stock Exchange approval.

Further details relating to stock options outstanding and exercisable follow:

Range of exercise prices
$6.47 to $9.56
$10.22 to $13.60
$16.52 to $19.99
$20.11 to $23.75
$27.39 to $38.86
Total

Options Outstanding

Options Exercisable

Weighted
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Life (years)
1.7
1.7 
2.9 
3.8 
4.8 
3.2

$

$

Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
8.20 
13.21 
17.00 
20.21 
31.42 
19.56 

Number of
Options
272,380 
355,982 
546,100 
684,500 
531,050 
2,390,012 

Number of
Options
272,380
175,982 
– 
– 
– 
448,362

$

$

Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
8.20 
13.21 

–   
–   
–   

10.16 

In  March  2005,  shareholders  approved  amendments  to  the  share  incentive  plan.  The  terms  of  the  plan  now  allow  the  holders  of  vested  options  a
cashless settlement alternative whereby the option holder can either (a) elect to receive shares by delivering cash to the Bank in the amount of the
option  exercise  price  or  (b)  elect  to  receive  the  number  of  shares  equivalent  to  the  excess  of  the  market  value  of  the  shares  under  option  over  the
exercise price. Of the 413,014 options exercised or exchanged since March 2005, option holders exchanged the rights to 309,114 options and received
176,336 shares in return under the cashless settlement alternative.

Salary expense of $1,670 (2004 – $907) was recognized relating to the estimated fair value of options granted since November 1, 2002. The fair value of
options granted was estimated using a binomial option pricing model with the following variables and assumptions: (i) risk-free interest rate of 3.3%
(2004 – 3.8%), (ii) expected option life of 4.0 (2004 – 3.9) years, (iii) expected volatility of 18% (2004 – 19%), and (iv) expected dividends of 1.3% (2004 –
1.8%). The weighted average fair value of options granted was estimated at $5.58 (2004 – $3.26) per share.

During the year, $19 (2004 – $nil) was transferred from contributed surplus to share capital, representing the estimated fair value recognized for 6,500
(2004 – nil) options granted after November 1, 2002 and exercised this year.

CLEAR THINKING   CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT 59

17. INSURANCE OPERATIONS

The Bank acquired Canadian Direct Insurance Incorporated on April 30, 2004. Accordingly, the results of operations have been included since the date
of acquisition. The following information outlines issues specifically related to insurance operations.

a) Insurance Income

Insurance income reported in other income on the consolidated statements of income is presented net of claims, adjustment and policy acquisition
expenses.

Net earned premiums and other
Net claims, adjustment and policy acquisition expenses
Insurance revenues, net

b) Unpaid Claims and Adjustment Expenses

(i) Nature of Unpaid Claims

2005
12 Months
72,422
56,691 
15,731

$

$

$

$

2004
6 Months
30,761 
22,865 
7,896 

The  establishment  of  the  provision  for  unpaid  claims  and  adjustment  expenses  and  the  related  reinsurers’  share  is  based  on  known  facts  and
interpretation  of  circumstances  and  is  therefore  a  complex  and  dynamic  process  influenced  by  a  large  variety  of  factors.  These  factors  include
experience with similar cases and historical trends involving claim payment patterns, loss payments, pending levels of unpaid claims, product mix or
concentration, claims severity and claims frequency patterns.

Other factors include the continually evolving and changing regulatory and legal environment, actuarial studies, professional experience and expertise
of the claims department personnel and independent adjusters retained to handle individual claims, the quality of the data used for projection purposes,
existing claims management practices including claims handling and settlement practices, the effect of inflationary trends on future claims settlement
costs,  investment  rates  of  return,  court  decisions,  economic  conditions  and  public  attitudes.  In  addition,  time  can  be  a  critical  part  of  the  provision
determination, since the longer the span between the incidence of a loss and the payment or settlement of the claim, the more variable the ultimate
settlement amount can be. Accordingly, short-tailed claims, such as property claims, tend to be more reasonably predictable than long-tailed claims,
such as liability claims.

Consequently, the establishment of the provision for unpaid claims and adjustment expenses relies on the judgment and opinions of a large number of
individuals,  on  historical  precedent  and  trends,  on  prevailing  legal,  economic,  social  and  regulatory  trends  and  on  expectations  as  to  future
developments. The process of determining the provisions necessarily involves risks that the actual results will deviate, perhaps substantially, from the
best estimates made.

ii) Provision for Unpaid Claims and Adjustment Expenses

An annual evaluation of the adequacy of unpaid claims is completed at the end of each financial year. This evaluation includes a reestimation of the
liability  for  unpaid  claims  relating  to  each  preceding  financial  year  compared  to  the  liability  that  was  originally  established.  The  results  of  this
comparison and the changes in the provision for unpaid claims and adjustment expenses follow:

Unpaid claims and adjustment expenses, net, beginning of period
Claims incurred

In the current period
In prior periods

Claims paid during the period
Unpaid claims and adjustment expenses, net, end of period
Reinsurers’ share of unpaid claims and adjustment expenses, end of period
Recoverable on unpaid claims
Unpaid claims and adjustment expenses, end of period

2005
12 Months
19,976

41,391 
1,056 
(32,126)
30,297 
14,124 
5,591 
50,012

$

$

$

$

2004
6 Months
15,885 

10,970 
188 
(7,067)
19,976 
12,106 
4,888 
36,970

The  provision  for  unpaid  claims  and  adjustment  expenses  and  related  reinsurance  recoveries  are  discounted  using  rates  based  on  the  projected
investment income from the assets supporting the provisions, and reflecting the estimated timing of payments and recoveries. The investment rate of
return used for all cash flow periods was 3.7% (2004 – 3.8%). However, that rate was reduced by a 1% (2004 – 1%) provision for adverse deviation in
discounting  the  provision  for  unpaid  claims  and  adjustment  expenses  and  related  reinsurance  recoveries.  The  impact  of  this  provision  for  adverse
deviation results in an increase of $555 (2004 - $423) in unpaid claims and adjustment expenses and related reinsurance recoveries.

60 CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT      CLEAR THINKING

17. INSURANCE OPERATIONS (continued)

Policy balances, included in insurance related other assets and other liabilities, analysed by major line of business are as follows:

Unpaid claims and adjustment expenses
Reinsurers’ share of unpaid claims and adjustment expenses
Unearned premiums
Reinsurers’ share of unearned premiums

c) Underwriting Policy and Reinsurance Ceded

2005

$

Automobile
44,215
12,091 
36,900 
7,046 

$

2004

Home
5,797
2,033
11,038 
2,208 

$

Automobile
31,977
9,599 
33,438 
8,225 

$

Home
4,993 
2,507 
9,782 
2,445 

Reinsurance contracts with coverage up to maximum policy limits are entered into to protect against losses in excess of certain amounts that may arise
from automobile, personal property and liability claims.

Reinsurance with a limit of $120,000 (2004 – $100,000) is obtained to protect against certain catastrophic losses. Due to the geographic concentration
of the business, management believes earthquakes and windstorms are its most significant exposure to catastrophic losses. Utilizing sophisticated
computer modelling techniques developed by independent consultants to quantify the estimated exposure to such losses, management believes there
is sufficient catastrophe reinsurance protection.

Effective January 1, 2005, 20 percent of gross retentions, including unearned premiums as at December 31, 2004, were ceded under a new quota share
agreement. The previous quota share agreement, ceding 25 percent of gross retention, expired December 31, 2004. 

At October 31, 2005, $14,124 (2004 – $12,106) of unpaid claims and adjustment expenses was recorded as recoverable from the reinsurers. 

Failure of a reinsurer to honour its obligation could result in losses. The financial condition of its reinsurers are regularly evaluated to minimize the
exposure to significant losses from reinsurer insolvency.

The amounts shown in other income are net of the following amounts relating to reinsurance ceded to other insurance companies:

Premiums earned reduced by
Claims incurred reduced by

2005
12 Months
22,536
11,761

$

$

2004
6 Months
12,129 
6,661

CLEAR THINKING   CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT 61

18. INCOME TAXES 

The provision for income taxes consists of the following:

Current
Future
Provision for income taxes

$

$

2005
30,894
(3,900)
26,994

$

$

2004
19,072 
414 
19,486 

A reconciliation of the statutory tax rates and income tax that would be payable at these rates to the effective income tax rates and provision for income
taxes that is reported in the consolidated statements of income follows:

Combined Canadian federal and provincial income taxes

and statutory tax rate 

Increase (decrease) arising from:

Tax-exempt income
Large corporations tax
Other

Provision for income taxes and effective tax rate

Future income tax balances are comprised of the following:

$

$

Net future income tax assets
Allowance for credit losses
Other temporary differences

Net future income tax liabilities 

Intangible assets
Allowance for credit losses
Other temporary differences

2005

2004

28,305

34.8% $

22,532

(2,651)   
219   
1,121   
26,994   

(3.3)  
0.3 
1.4

33.2% $

$

$

$

$

(4,095)
351 
698 
19,486

2005

12,037
418 
12,455

1,444
(576)
806 
1,674

$

$

$

$

35.4%

(6.4) 
0.6  
1.0  
30.6%

2004

10,007 
(1,678)
8,329 

1,596 
(439)
570 
1,727 

The Bank has approximately $11,140 (2004 – $11,832) of capital losses which are available to apply against future capital gains and have no expiry date. 
The tax benefit of these losses has not been recognized in the consolidated financial statements.

62 CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT      CLEAR THINKING

19. EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE

The calculation of earnings per common share is as follows:

Numerator

Net income - basic
Dilutive instruments:

Conversion of debentures(1)

Net income - diluted

Denominator

Weighted average number of common shares outstanding - basic
Dilutive instruments:

Conversion of debentures(1)
Employee stock options(2)

Weighted average number of common shares outstanding - diluted

Earnings per Common Share

Basic
Diluted

2005

2004

54,391

$

44,161 

134 
54,525

$

1,733 
45,894 

30,197,100 

26,782,484 

241,565 
819,632
31,258,297 

3,095,744 
738,934 
30,617,162 

1.80
1.74

$
$

1.65 
1.50 

$

$

$
$

(1) Net income is adjusted by the potential impact on earnings if the convertible debentures were converted into common shares at the beginning of the year. During the

year, all outstanding convertible debentures were converted into common shares.

(2) At October 31, the denominator excludes 391,050 (2004 – 251,000) employee stock options with an adjusted average exercise price of $38.54 (2004 – $23.33) where the

adjusted exercise price is greater than the monthly average market price.

A stock dividend effecting a two-for-one split of the Bank’s common shares was declared and paid during 2005. All prior period share and per share
information has been restated to reflect this effective split.

20. CONTINGENT LIABILITIES AND COMMITMENTS

a) Credit Instruments

In the normal course of business, the Bank enters into various commitments and has contingent liabilities which are not reflected in the consolidated
balance sheets. These items are reported below and are expressed in terms of the contractual amount of the related commitment.

Credit Instruments

Guarantees and standby letters of credit
Commitments to extend credit

Total

2005

2004

$

$

127,608
1,640,985
1,768,593

$

$

94,270 
989,433 
1,083,703 

Guarantees and standby letters of credit represent the Bank’s obligation to make payments to third parties when a customer is unable to make required
payments or meet other contractual obligations. These instruments carry the same credit risk, recourse and collateral security requirements as loans
extended to customers and generally have a term that does not exceed one year. Losses, if any, resulting from these transactions are not expected to
be material.

Commitments  to  extend  credit  to  customers  also  arise  in  the  normal  course  of  business  and  include  undrawn  availability  under  lines  of  credit  and
commercial operating loans of $550,445 (2004 – $370,000) and recently authorized but unfunded loan commitments of $1,090,540 (2004 – $619,000). In the
majority of instances, availability of undrawn commercial commitments is subject to the borrower meeting specified financial tests or other covenants
regarding completion or satisfaction of certain conditions precedent. It is also usual practice to include the right to review and withhold funding in the event
of a material adverse change in the financial condition of the borrower. From a liquidity perspective, undrawn credit authorizations will be funded over time
with draws in many cases extending over a period of months. In some instances, authorizations are never advanced or may be reduced because of changing
requirements. The balance of commitments to extend credit shown in the table above does not account for principal drawdowns or paybacks that occur in
the normal course of operations. Revolving credit authorizations are subject to repayment which on a pooled basis also decreases liquidity risk.

CLEAR THINKING   CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT 63

20. CONTINGENT LIABILITIES AND COMMITMENTS (continued)

b) Lease Commitments

The Bank has obligations under long-term non-cancellable operating leases for the rental of premises and office equipment. Minimum future lease
commitments for each of the five succeeding years and thereafter are as follows:

2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011 and thereafter
Total

c) Guarantees

$

$

5,199
5,230
5,042 
4,548
4,204
24,332
48,555

A guarantee is defined as a contract that contingently requires the guarantor to make payments to a third party based on i) changes in an underlying
economic characteristic that is related to an asset, liability or equity security of the guaranteed party, ii) failure of another party to perform under an
obligating agreement, or iii) failure of another third party to pay indebtedness when due.

Significant guarantees provided to third parties include guarantees and standby letters of credit as discussed above.

In the ordinary course of business, the Bank enters into contractual arrangements under which the Bank may agree to indemnify the other party. Under
these agreements, the Bank may be required to compensate counterparties for costs incurred as a result of various contingencies such as changes in
laws and regulations and litigation claims. A maximum potential liability cannot be identified as the terms of these arrangements vary and generally
no  predetermined  amounts  or  limits  are  identified.  The  likelihood  of  occurrence  of  contingent  events  that  would  trigger  payment  under  these
arrangements is either remote or difficult to predict and in the past payments under these arrangements have been insignificant. 

The Bank issues personal and business credit cards through an agreement with a third party card issuer. The Bank has indemnified the card issuer
from loss if there is a default on the issuer’s collection of the business credit card balances. The Bank has provided no indemnification relating to the
personal or travel reward credit card balances. The issuance of business credit cards and establishment of business credit card limits are approved by
the Bank and subject to the same credit assessment, approval and monitoring as the extension of direct loans. At year-end, the total approved business
credit card limit was $4,608 (2004 – $2,002) and the balance outstanding was $1,148 (2004 – $376).

No amounts are reflected in the consolidated financial statements related to these guarantees and indemnifications.

d) Legal Proceedings

In the ordinary course of business, the Bank and its subsidiaries are party to legal proceedings. Based on current knowledge, the Bank does not expect
the outcome of any of these proceedings to have a material effect on the consolidated financial position or results of operations.

21. TRUST ASSETS UNDER ADMINISTRATION 

Trust assets under administration of $2,649,065 (2004 – $1,759,473) represent assets held for personal and corporate clients, administered by subsidiaries,
and are kept separate from the subsidiaries’ own assets. Trust assets under administration are not reflected in the consolidated balance sheets.

Effective this year, trust assets under administration are presented at market value which is standard for the industry. In the prior year, trust assets
under administration were presented at historical cost. Comparative figures have not been restated as market value information is not readily available.

22. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

The  Bank  makes  loans,  primarily  residential  mortgages,  to  its  officers  and  employees  at  various  preferred  rates  and  terms.  The  total  amount
outstanding for these types of loans is $29,175 (2004 – $27,045).

64 CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT      CLEAR THINKING

23. INTEREST RATE SENSITIVITY 

The Bank is exposed to interest rate risk as a result of a difference, or gap, between the maturity or repricing behaviour of interest sensitive assets and
liabilities. The interest rate gap is managed by forecasting core balance trends. The repricing profile of these assets and liabilities has been incorporated
in the table below showing the gap position at October 31 for selected time intervals. Figures in brackets represent an excess of liabilities over assets
or a negative gap position.

Asset Liability Gap Positions
($ millions)

October 31, 2005
Assets
Cash resources
Securities
Loans
Other assets
Derivative financial 
instruments(1)

Total
Liabilities and Equity
Deposits
Other liabilities
Debentures
Shareholders’ equity
Derivative financial 
instruments(1)

Total
Interest Rate 

Sensitive Gap
Cumulative Gap
Cumulative Gap 

as a Percentage 
of Total Assets

October 31, 2004
Total assets
Total liabilities 
and equity
Interest Rate 

Sensitive Gap
Cumulative Gap
Cumulative Gap 

as a Percentage 
of Total Assets

Floating Rate  
and Within 
1 Month  

1 to 3  
Months  

3 Months  
to 1 Year  

$

$

$

$

$
$

94
74 
2,403 
–

– 
2,571 

1,908 
5 
– 
– 

624 
2,537 

34
34

$

$

$

$

$
$

21
62 
175 
– 

22 
280 

440 
9 
– 
– 

– 
449 

(169)
(135)

$

$

$

$

$
$

57
331 
473 
– 

223 
1,084 

1,091 
12 
– 
– 

– 
1,103 

(19)
(154)

$

$

$

$

$
$

Total  
Within  
1 Year  

172
467 
3,051 
– 

245 
3,935 

3,439 
26 
– 
– 

624 
4,089 

(152)
(154)

1 Year to  
5 Years  

Over  
5 Years 

Non-  
interest  
Sensitive  

$

$

$

$

$
$

31
164 
1,565 
–

379 
2,139 

1,474 
25 
128 
– 

– 
1,627 

512 
358 

$

$

$

$

$
$

–
106 
17 
–

– 
123 

– 
– 
– 
– 

– 
– 

123 
481 

$

$

$

$

$
$

33
3 
(43)  
138 

– 
131 

– 
154 
– 
458 

– 
612 

(481)  
– 

$

$

$

$

$
$

0.5%

(2.1%)

(2.4%)

(2.4%)

5.7%

7.6%

– 

Total 

236 
740 
4,590 
138 

624 
6,328 

4,913 
205 
128 
458 

624
6,328 

–
–

– 

$

2,322

$

236

$

937

$

3,495

$

2,102  

$

72 

$

145  

$

5,814  

2,304  

265  

$
$

18
18  

$
$

(29)
(11)

$
$

913

24
13

3,482  

1,831  

– 

501  

5,814  

$
$

13  
13  

$
$

271  
284  

$
$

72  
356  

$
$

(356) 
–  

$
$

–  
–  

–  

0.3%

(0.2)%

0.2%

0.2%

4.9%

6.1%

– 

(1) Derivative financial instruments are included in this table at the notional amount. 
(2) Accrued interest is excluded in calculating interest sensitive assets and liabilities.
(3) Potential prepayments of fixed rate loans and early redemption of redeemable fixed term deposits have not been estimated. Redemptions of fixed term deposits where
depositors have this option are not expected to be material. The majority of fixed rate loans, mortgages and leases are either closed or carry prepayment penalties.

CLEAR THINKING   CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT 65

23. INTEREST RATE SENSITIVITY (continued)

The effective, weighted average interest rates for each class of financial asset and liability, including off-balance sheet instruments, are shown below.

Weighted Average Effective Interest Rates
(%)

Floating Rate  
and Within  
1 Month

1 to 3  

Months

3 Months  
to 1 Year  

Total  
Within  
1 Year  

1 Year to  
5 Years  

Over  
5 Years  

Total  

October 31, 2005
Assets
Cash resources
Securities
Loans
Derivative financial instruments
Total
Liabilities
Deposits
Debentures
Derivative financial instruments
Total
Interest Rate Sensitive Gap

October 31, 2004
Total assets
Total liabilities
Interest Rate Sensitive Gap

3.4%
2.9 
5.7 
– 
5.5 

2.2 
– 
3.0 
2.3 
3.2%

5.1%
2.0 
3.1%

2.9%
2.9 
5.5 
3.2 
4.5 

3.2 
– 
– 
3.2 
1.4%

4.1%
3.4 
0.7%

3.0%
3.0 
6.0 
3.6 
4.4 

3.6 
– 
– 
3.5 
0.9%

4.2%
3.3 
0.9%

3.2%
3.0 
5.7 
3.6 
5.2 

2.7 
– 
3.0 
2.8 
2.4%

4.8%
2.5 
2.3%

3.6 
4.0 
6.0 
3.5 
5.3 

3.6 
5.7 
– 
3.8 
1.6%

5.4%
3.9 
1.5%

– %

6.0 
5.6 
– 
6.0 

– 
– 
– 
– 
6.0%

6.6%
– 
6.6%

3.3%
3.6 
5.8 
3.5
5.2

3.0 
5.7
3.0 
3.0
2.2%

5.0%
3.0 
2.0%

24. FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

Fair value represents the estimated consideration that would be agreed upon in a current transaction between knowledgeable, willing parties who are
under no compulsion to act. The best evidence of fair value is a quoted market price. However, most of the Bank’s financial instruments lack an available
trading market as they are not typically exchanged. Therefore, these instruments have been valued assuming they will not be sold, using present value
or other suitable techniques and are not necessarily representative of the amounts realizable in an immediate settlement of the instrument.

Changes in interest rates are the main cause of changes in the fair value of the Bank’s financial instruments. The carrying value of the majority of the
financial instruments is not adjusted to reflect increases or decreases in fair value due to interest rate changes as the Bank’s intention is to realize their
value over time by holding them to maturity. The carrying value of financial instruments held for trading purposes would be continually adjusted to
reflect fair value. At October 31, 2005 and 2004, there were no financial instruments held for trading purposes.

The table below sets out the fair values of on-balance sheet financial instruments and off-balance sheet derivative instruments using the valuation
methods and assumptions referred to below the table. The table does not include assets and liabilities that are not considered financial instruments.

Assets

Cash resources
Securities                (Note 4)
Securities purchased 

under resale agreements

Loans(1)
Other assets(2)

Liabilities

Deposits(1)
Other liabilities(3)
Subordinated debentures

2005

2004

Book Value

Fair Value

Fair Value
Over(Under)
Book Value

Book Value

Fair Value

$

236,154   
702,906   

236,154
702,455 

$

$

–
(451) 

232,726
540,487 

$

232,726
541,020 

$

36,940
4,590,553   
65,933   

4,913,307   
201,376   
128,126   

36,940
4,573,356 
65,933 

4,905,696 
198,796 
129,144 

–

(17,197) 
– 

(7,611) 
(2,580) 
1,018 

74,966
3,930,287 
72,799 

4,267,788 
170,036 
110,600 

74,966
3,923,534 
72,799 

4,283,947 
168,354 
111,778 

Fair Value
Over(Under)
Book Value

– 
533 

–
(6,753)
– 

16,159 
(1,682)
1,178 

(1) Loans and deposits exclude deferred premiums and deferred revenue which are not financial instruments.
(2) Other assets exclude land, buildings and equipment, goodwill and other intangible assets, reinsurers’ share of unpaid claims and adjustment expenses, future income

tax asset, prepaid and deferred expenses, financing costs and other items which are not financial instruments.

(3) Other liabilities exclude future income tax liability, deferred revenue and other items which are not financial instruments.
(4) For further information on interest rates associated with financial assets and liabilities, including off-balance sheet instruments, refer to Note 23.

66 CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT      CLEAR THINKING

24. FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS (continued)

The methods and assumptions used to estimate the fair values of on-balance sheet financial instruments are as follows:

• cash resources, other assets and other liabilities are assumed to approximate their carrying values, due to their short-term nature;

• securities are assumed to be equal to the estimated market value of securities provided in Note 4. These values are based on quoted market prices,

if available. Where a quoted market price is not readily available, other valuation techniques are used to estimate fair value;

• loans reflect changes in the general level of interest rates which have occurred since the loans were originated and are net of the allowance for credit
losses. For floating rate loans, fair value is assumed to be equal to book value as the interest rates on these loans automatically reprice to market.
For all other loans, fair value is estimated by discounting the expected future cash flows of these loans at current market rates for loans with similar
terms and risks;

• deposits with no stated maturity are assumed to be equal to their carrying values. The estimated fair values of fixed rate deposits are determined by

discounting the contractual cash flows at current market rates for deposits of similar terms; and

• the fair values of subordinated debentures are determined by reference to current market prices for debt with similar terms and risks.

Fair values are based on management’s best estimates based on market conditions and pricing policies at a certain point in time. The estimates are
subjective and involve particular assumptions and matters of judgment and as such may not be reflective of future fair values.

25. DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

The Bank enters into off-balance sheet derivative financial instruments for risk management purposes.

Interest rate swaps and interest rate floors (or caps) are used as hedging devices to control interest rate risk. The Bank only enters into these interest
rate derivative instruments for its own account and does not act as an intermediary in this market. The credit risk is limited to the amount of any adverse
change in interest rates applied on the notional contract amount should the counterparty default. Equity contracts are used to offset the return paid to
depositors on certain deposit products where the return is linked to a stock index. The credit risk is limited to the average return on an equity index
applied on the notional contract amount should the counterparty default. The principal amounts are not exchanged and hence are not at risk. Approved
counterparties and maximum notional limits are established and monitored by the Asset Liability Committee (ALCO) of the Bank.

Foreign exchange transactions are undertaken only for the purposes of meeting needs of clients and of day-to-day business. Foreign exchange markets
are not speculated in by taking a trading position in currencies. Maximum exposure limits are established and monitored by ALCO and are defined by
allowable unhedged amounts. The position is managed within the allowable target range by spot and forward transactions or other hedging techniques.
Exposure to foreign exchange risk is not material to the Bank’s overall position.

The following table summarizes the off-balance sheet financial instrument portfolio and the related credit risk. Notional amounts represent the amount
to which a rate or price is applied in order to calculate the exchange of cash flows. The notional amounts are not recorded on the consolidated balance
sheets. They represent the volume of outstanding transactions and do not represent the potential gain or loss associated with the market risk or credit
risk of such instruments. The replacement cost represents the cost of replacing, at current market rates, all contracts with a positive fair value. The
future credit exposure represents the potential for future changes in value and is based on a formula prescribed by OSFI. The credit risk equivalent is
the sum of the future credit exposure and the replacement cost. The risk-weighted balance represents the credit risk equivalent weighted according to
the credit worthiness of the counterparty as prescribed by OSFI. Additional discussion of OSFI’s capital adequacy requirements is provided on pages 32
and 33 of Management’s Discussion and Analysis.

CLEAR THINKING   CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT 67

25. DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS (continued)

Notional
Amount

Replace-
ment
Cost

2005
Future
Credit
Exposure

Credit
Risk
Equivalent

Risk-
weighted
Balance

Notional
Amount

Replace-
ment
Cost

2004
Future
Credit
Exposure

Credit
Risk
Equivalent

Risk-
weighted
Balance

Interest 

Rate Swaps
Equity Contracts
Foreign Exchange
Contracts 

Total

$ 607,500 $
14,540 

676 $
530 

3,013 $
1,163 

3,689 $
1,693 

738 $ 882,500 $
339

17,765 

3,918 $
73 

3,713 $
1,421 

7,631 $
1,494 

1,527 
299 

2,214 
$ 624,254 $

3 
1,209 $

22 
4,198 $

25 
5,407 $

5

996 

1,082 $ 901,261 $

– 
3,991 $

–
5,134 $

– 
9,125 $

– 
1,826 

The following table shows the off-balance sheet financial instruments split between those contracts that have a positive fair value (favourable contracts)
and those that have a negative fair value (unfavourable contracts).

2005

2004

Favourable Contracts

Notional
Amount
$ 242,500
9,070 

Fair
Value
676
530 

$

Unfavourable Contracts
Fair
Notional
Value
Amount
(1694)
$ 365,000
(45)
5,470

$

Favourable Contracts

Notional
Amount
$ 542,000
2,620 

Fair
Value
3,918
73 

$

Unfavourable Contracts
Fair
Notional
Value
Amount
(1,377)
$ 340,500
(278)
15,145 

$

1,163 
252,733

$

$

3 
1,209

$

1,051 
371,521

$

(2)
(1,741) $

– 
544,620

$

– 
3,991

$

996
356,641

$

(42)
(1,697)

Interest Rate Swaps
Equity Contracts
Foreign Exchange

Contracts

Total

The aggregate contractual or notional amount of the off-balance sheet financial instruments on hand, the extent to which instruments are favourable
or unfavourable and, thus, the aggregate fair values of these financial assets and liabilities can fluctuate significantly from time to time. The average
fair values of the off-balance sheet financial instruments on hand during the year are set out in the following table.

Favourable off-balance sheet

financial instruments (assets)
Unfavourable off-balance sheet

financial instruments (liabilities)

2005

5,564

637

$

$

2004

6,475 

1,310 

$

$

The following table summarizes maturities of off-balance sheet financial instruments and weighted average interest rates paid and received on interest
rate contracts.

2005
Maturity

2004
Maturity

1 year or less

Over 1 to 5 years

1 year or less

Over 1 to 5 years

Notional
Amount

Contractual
Interest
Rate

Notional
Amount

Contractual
Interest
Rate

Notional
Amount

Contractual
Interest
Rate

Notional
Amount

Contractual
Interest
Rate

Interest Rate Contracts
Interest rate swaps-
receive fixed 
amounts(1)
Equity Contracts(2)
Foreign Exchange
Contracts(2)

Total

$

$

5,000 
5,470 

2,214 
12,684

3.05% $

602,500 
9,070 

3.06% $

140,000
4,725 

2.47% $

742,500
13,040

3.54%

– 
611,570

$

783 
145,508

$

– 
755,540 

$

(1) The Bank pays (floating) interest amounts based on the one-month (30 day) Canadian Bankers’ Acceptance rate.
(2) The contractual interest rate is not meaningful for equity contracts or foreign exchange contracts.

68 CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT      CLEAR THINKING

26. RISK MANAGEMENT

As part of the Bank’s risk management practices, the risks that are significant to the business are identified, monitored and controlled. These risks
include credit risk, liquidity risk, market risk, insurance risk, operational risk and litigation risk. The nature of these risks and how they are managed
is provided in the commentary on pages 41 to 44 of Management’s Discussion and Analysis.

Information on specific measures of risk including the allowance for credit losses, derivative financial instruments, interest rate sensitivity, fair value
of financial instruments and liability for unpaid claims are included elsewhere in these notes to the consolidated financial statements. 

27. SEGMENTED INFORMATION

The Bank operates principally in two industry segments – banking and trust, and insurance. These two segments differ in products and services but
are both within the same geographic region. Prior to the acquisition of Canadian Direct Insurance Incorporated on April 30, 2004, the Bank only had
banking and trust operations.

The banking and trust segment provides services to personal clients and small to medium-sized commercial business clients primarily in Western
Canada. The insurance segment provides home and automobile insurance direct to individuals in Alberta and British Columbia.

Net interest income teb(1)
Less teb adjustment
Net interest income per 
financial statements

Other income(2)
Total revenues 
Provision for credit losses
Non-interest expense(3)
Provision for income taxes
Net income
Total average assets ($ millions)(4)

$

$
$

Banking and Trust
2005
137,886
3,925

$

2004
116,279
3,898 

133,961 
31,721 
165,682 
10,100 
82,382 
23,931 
49,269
5,139

$
$

112,381 
28,134 
140,515 
9,390 
71,510 
18,025 
41,590
4,510 

Insurance

2005
2,434
50 

2,384
15,975 
18,359
– 
10,174 
3,063
5,122
127

$

$
$

2004
957
– 

957 
7,965 
8,922 
– 
4,890 
1,461 
2,571
57

$

$
$

Total

$

$
$

2005
140,320 
3,975

136,345 
47,696
184,041 
10,100 
92,556
26,994
54,391
5,266

2004
117,236 
3,898 

113,338 
36,099 
149,437 
9,390 
76,400 
19,486 
44,161 
4,567 

$

$
$

(1) Taxable Equivalent Basis (teb) - Most banks analyse revenue on a taxable equivalent basis to permit uniform measurement and comparison of net interest income. Net
interest income (as presented in the consolidated statements of income) includes tax-exempt income on certain securities. Since this income is not taxable, the rate of
interest or dividends received is significantly lower than would apply to a loan or security of the same amount. The adjustment to taxable equivalent basis increases
interest income and the provision for income taxes to what they would have been had the tax-exempt securities been taxed at the statutory rate. The taxable equivalent
basis does not have a standardized meaning prescribed by generally accepted accounting principles and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures
presented by other banks.

(2) Other income for the insurance segment is presented net of claims, adjustment expenses and policy acquisition expenses (see Note 17) and also includes the gain on

the sale of securities.

(3) Amortization of intangible assets of $543 (2004 – $271) is included in the banking and trust segment and $nil (2004 – $nil) in the insurance segment. Amortization of
land, building and equipment total $3,774 (2004 – $3,616) for the banking and trust segment and $1,027 (2004 – $404) for the insurance segment while additions
amounted to $3,466 (2004 – $7,326) and $2,337 (2004 – $507). Goodwill of $3,679 is allocated to the banking and trust segment and $3,254 to the insurance segment.

(4) Assets are disclosed on an average daily balance basis as this measure is most relevant to a financial institution and is the measure reviewed by management. 
(5) Transactions between the segments are reported at the exchange amount which approximates fair market value.

CLEAR THINKING   CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT 69

28. SUBSIDIARIES

Canadian Western Bank Subsidiaries
(annexed in accordance with subsection 308 (3) of the Bank Act)
October 31, 2005

Canadian Western Trust Company

Canadian Direct Insurance Incorporated

Valiant Trust Company

CWB Canadian Western Financial Ltd.

Address of
Head Office
10303 Jasper Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta
Suite 600, 750 Cambie Street
Vancouver, British Columbia
606 4th St. S.W.
Calgary, Alberta
10303 Jasper Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta

Carrying Value of
Voting Shares Owned

Percentage of Issued and
Outstanding Voting
by the Bank(1) Shares Owned by the Bank

$

23,704

33,430

8,767

101

100%

100%

100%

100%

(1) The carrying value of voting shares is stated at the Bank’s equity in the investments.

29. FUTURE ACCOUNTING CHANGES

Financial Instruments

The CICA has issued new accounting standards: Financial Instruments – Recognition and Measurement, Hedges, and Comprehensive Income, which
are effective for the Bank as of November 1, 2006. As a result of adopting these standards, a new category, Other Comprehensive Income, will be added
to Shareholders’ Equity and certain unrealized gains or losses will be reported in other comprehensive income until realization. The impact of these
new standards on the Bank’s financial statements is not yet determinable as it will be dependent on the Bank’s outstanding positions and their fair
values at the time of implementation.

30. COMPARATIVE FIGURES

Certain comparative figures have been reclassified to conform with the current year presentation.

70 CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT      CLEAR THINKING

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Charles R. Allard
President
Rosedale Meadows Development Inc.
Edmonton, Alberta

Albrecht W. A. Bellstedt, Q.C.
Executive Vice President,
Law and General Counsel
TransCanada Corporation
Calgary, Alberta

Jack C. Donald (Chairman)
President & CEO
Parkland Properties Ltd.
Red Deer, Alberta

Allan W. Jackson
President
ARCI Ltd.
Calgary, Alberta

Wendy A. Leaney
President
Wyoming Associates Ltd.
Toronto, Ontario

Robert A. Manning
President
Cathton Holdings Ltd.
Edmonton, Alberta

Gerald A.B. McGavin, FCA, CM
President
McGavin Properties Ltd.
Vancouver, British Columbia

Howard E. Pechet
President
Mayfield Consulting Inc.
La Jolla, California, USA

Robert L. Phillips
President
R.L. Phillips Investments Inc.
Vancouver, British Columbia

Larry M. Pollock
President and Chief Executive Officer
Canadian Western Bank & Trust
Edmonton, Alberta

Alan M. Rowe, CA
Senior Vice President, 
Chief Financial Officer and
Corporate Secretary
Crown Life Insurance Company
Regina, Saskatchewan

Arnold J. Shell
President
Arnold J. Shell Consulting Inc.
Calgary, Alberta 

DIRECTORS EMERITUS

John Goldberg
Jordan L. Golding
Arthur G. Hiller
Peter M.S. Longcroft
Dr. Maurice W. Nicholson
Alma M. McConnell
Eugene I. Pechet
Dr. Maurice M. Pechet
Fred Sparrow

SENIOR OFFICERS

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

Larry M. Pollock
President and 
Chief Executive Officer

William J. Addington
Executive Vice President

Tracey C. Ball, CA
Executive Vice President 
and Chief Financial Officer

Brian J. Young
Executive Vice President

Randy W. Garvey
Senior Vice President

Donald C. Kemp
Senior Vice President

Jack C. Wright
Senior Vice President

CORPORATE OFFICE 

Chris H. Fowler
Vice President
Credit Risk Management

David R. Gillespie
Vice President and Chief Internal Auditor

Ricki L. Golick
Treasurer 

Gail L. Harding, Q.C.
Vice President and General Counsel

Uve Knaak
Vice President
Human Resources

David R. Pogue
Vice President
Corporate Development

Michael Vos
Chief Technology Officer

Carolyn J. Graham, CA
Senior Assistant Vice President
and Chief Accountant 

Peter K. Morrison
Vice President
Marketing and Product Development

COMMERCIAL BANKING 

William A. Book
Vice President and Regional Manager 
Northern Alberta Region

Michael N. Halliwell
Vice President and Regional Manager
Prairie Region 

Greg J. Sprung
Vice President and Regional Manager
British Columbia Region

Raymond L. Young
Vice President
Real Estate Lending

James O. Burke
Vice President
Industrial Lending and Leasing

CANADIAN WESTERN 
TRUST COMPANY

Adrian M. Baker
Vice President and Chief Operating Officer
Trust Services

CANADIAN DIRECT
INSURANCE INCORPORATED

Brian J. Young
President and Chief Executive Officer

Susannah M. Bach
Vice President
Corporate and Strategic Operations

Colin G. Brown
Chief Operating Officer

Michael Martino
Chief Financial Officer

Vince M. Muto
Vice President
Claims

VALIANT TRUST COMPANY

Adrian M. Baker
President

OMBUDSMAN

R. Graham Gilbert

CLEAR THINKING   CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT 71

AWARDS OF
EXCELLENCE
Awards of Excellence recognize employees 
who display qualities for which CWB is known 
and that are inherent under the brand Think
Western®. When staff Think Western®, they
exceed expectations in the areas of client service 
(both internal and external), peer relationships,
innovation, and initiative. They are enthusiastic
about their work and their employer, reliable,
respectful, and responsive to both customers 
and co-workers. 

Award recipients for 2005 include: 

Lew Christie

Margaret Elliott

Pat Ewanchuk

Cheryl George

David Hardy

Jarene Hopko

Concepcion Jalbuena

Ida Lee

Sandra Manella

Ingrid Roffel

Marnee Watson

72 CWB 2005 ANNUAL REPORT      CLEAR THINKING

SHAREHOLDER INFORMATION

CANADIAN WESTERN BANK
& TRUST

Head Office
Suite 2300, Canadian Western Bank Place
10303 Jasper Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta  T5J 3X6
Telephone: (780) 423-8888
Fax: (780) 423-8897
Website: www.cwbank.com

SUBSIDIARY REGIONAL OFFICE

Canadian Western Trust Company
Suite 600, 750 Cambie Street
Vancouver, B.C.  V6B 0A2
Telephone: (604) 685-2081
Fax: (604) 669-6069
Website: www.cwt.ca

CANADIAN DIRECT INSURANCE
INCORPORATED

Suite 600, 750 Cambie Street
Vancouver, B.C.  V6B 0A2
Telephone: (604) 699-3678
Fax: (604) 699-3851
Website:  www.canadiandirect.com

VALIANT TRUST COMPANY

Suite 310, 606 - 4th Street S.W.
Calgary, Alberta  T2P 1T1
Telephone: (403) 233-2801
Fax: (403) 233-2857
Website:  www.valianttrust.com

STOCK EXCHANGE LISTING

The Toronto Stock Exchange
Share Symbol: CWB

TRANSFER AGENT AND REGISTRAR
MAILING ADDRESS

Valiant Trust Company
Suite 310, 606 - 4th Street S.W.
Calgary, Alberta  T2P 1T1
Telephone: (403) 233-2801
Fax: (403) 233-2857

CORPORATE SECRETARY

Gail L. Harding 
Vice President and General Counsel
Canadian Western Bank
606 - 4th Street S.W.
Calgary, Alberta  T2P 1T1
Telephone: (403) 268-7829
Fax: (403) 920-0204

INQUIRIES FROM SHAREHOLDERS

Any notification regarding change of address 
or change in registration of shares should be
directed to the Transfer Agent. Any inquiries
other than change of address or change in
registration may be directed to the President
and Chief Executive Officer.

ANNUAL MEETING

The annual meeting of the common 
shareholders of Canadian Western Bank 
will be held on Thursday, March 9, 2006 
at the Westin Hotel, Edmonton, Alberta 
at 3:00 p.m. (MT).

INVESTOR RELATIONS

For further financial information, contact: 
Matt Colpitts
Senior Manager, Investor and Public Relations 
Canadian Western Bank
Telephone: (780) 441-3770
Fax: (780) 423-8899
E-mail: InvestorRelations@cwbank.com
or visit our website at www.cwbank.com 

ONLINE INVESTOR INFORMATION

Additional investor information, including
supplemental financial information and a
corporate presentation, is available on our
website at www.cwbank.com

COMPLAINTS OR CONCERNS 
REGARDING ACCOUNTING, 
INTERNAL ACCOUNTING CONTROLS 
OR AUDITING MATTERS

Please contact either: 
Tracey C. Ball
Executive Vice President 
and Chief Financial Officer
Canadian Western Bank
Telephone: (780) 423-8855
Fax: (780) 423-8899
E-mail: tracey.ball@cwbank.com
or
Robert A. Manning
Chairman of the Audit Committee
c/o 210 – 5324 Calgary Trail
Edmonton, AB  T6H 4J8
Telephone: (780) 438-2626
Fax: (780) 438-2632
E-mail: rmanning@shawbiz.ca 

OUR HISTORY OF FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE

PERFORMANCE TARGETS
In  2005,  Canadian  Western  Bank  (CWB)  exceeded  all  our
performance targets, surpassing key targets for income, revenue
and loan growth by a considerable margin. In 2006, CWB will look
to continue its long history of strong financial performance. Key
targets  for  2006  include  net  income  growth  of  18%  and  loan
growth  of  12%,  while  maintaining  strong  credit  quality  with  a
provision for credit losses of 0.22% of average loans. We expect
continued growth and performance across all our banking, trust
and insurance businesses and remain well positioned to pursue
new growth opportunities in the coming year.

Net Income Growth

Total Revenue (teb) Growth

Loan Growth

Provision for Credit Losses as a Percentage of Average Loans

Efficiency Ratio (teb)

Return on Equity

Return on Assets

2005
Target

15%

15% -18%

12%

0.25% or less

50% or less

12% or greater

0.98% or greater

2005
Performance

2006
Target

23%

23%

17%

0.24%

49.2%

12.7%

1.03%

18% or greater

15%

12%

0.22% or less

48% or less

13% or greater

1.05%

2005 HIGHLIGHTS
• Record net income of $54.4 million, an increase of 23% over the previous high recorded in 2004.

• Achievement of our 70th consecutive quarter of profitability, a period spanning more than 17 years.

• Growth in total revenues of 23%.

• Total loan growth of 17%, marking our 16th consecutive year of double-digit loan growth.

• Continued strong credit quality, with an annual provision for credit losses of 0.24% of average loans.

• Growth in lower cost demand and notice deposits of 51%, a key factor in leveraging our core profitability.

• An efficiency ratio (non-interest expenses to total revenues) of 49.2%, which continues to lead the Canadian banking industry.

• Record net income from banking and trust operations of $49.3 million, an increase of 18% over 2004.

• Net income from insurance operations of $5.1 million, reflecting a strong combined ratio of 91%.

• Payment of a stock dividend effecting a two-for-one split of our common shares in January 2005.

• Total return to shareholders, including reinvested dividends, of 50% during the year. 

LOCATIONS

CANADIAN 
WESTERN BANK

REGIONAL OFFICES

Northern Alberta 
(780) 423-8888 
Bill Book

Prairies
(403) 262-8700
Michael Halliwell

British Columbia
(604) 669-0081
Greg Sprung

Industrial Lending
(403) 269-9882
Jim Burke

ALBERTA

EDMONTON

Edmonton Main
11350 Jasper Avenue
(780) 424-4846
Keith Wilkes

103rd Street
10303 Jasper Avenue
(780) 423-8801
Jake Muntain

South Edmonton Common
2142 – 99 Street
(780) 988-8607
Wayne Dosman

Southside
7933 – 104 Street
(780) 433-4286
Donna Austin

St. Albert
300, 700 St. Albert Road
(780) 458-4001
Ward Fleming

West Point
17603 – 100 Avenue
(780) 484-7407
Kevin MacMillen

CALGARY

Calgary Main 
606 – 4 Street S.W.
(403) 262-8700
Doug Crook

Calgary Northeast 
2810 – 32 Avenue N.E.
(403) 250-8838
Glen Eastwood

MANITOBA

WINNIPEG

230 Portage Avenue
(204) 956-4669
Robert Bean

CANADIAN 
WESTERN TRUST 

VANCOUVER

Suite 600, 750 Cambie Street
(604) 685-2081

CALGARY

200, 606 – 4 St. S.W.
(403) 717-3145

WINNIPEG

230 Portage Avenue
(204) 956-4669

CANADIAN DIRECT
INSURANCE
INCORPORATED 

VANCOUVER

Suite 600, 750 Cambie Street
(888) 225-5234

EDMONTON

11th Floor, 10250 – 101 Street
(780) 413-5933

VALIANT TRUST
COMPANY 

CALGARY

310, 606 – 4 Street S.W.
(403) 233-2801

VANCOUVER

Suite 600, 750 Cambie Street 
(604) 443-5153

Calgary Chinook
6606 MacLeod Trail S.W.
(403) 269-9882 
Lew Christie

Calgary Foothills
6127 Barlow Trail S.E.
(403) 252-2299
Chris Minke

RED DEER

4822 – 51 Avenue
(403) 341-4000
Don Odell

LETHBRIDGE

744 – 4 Avenue South
(403) 328-9199
Don Grummett

GRANDE PRAIRIE

11226 – 100 Avenue
(780) 831-1888
David Harvey

BRITISH COLUMBIA

VANCOUVER

West Side
3190 West Broadway
(604) 732-4262
Paul Cheng

West Broadway
Suite 110, 1333 West Broadway
(604) 730-8818
Jules Mihalyi

Park Place
Suite 100, 666 Burrard Street
(604) 688-8711
Rob Berzins

COQUITLAM

310, 101 Schoolhouse Street
(604) 540-8829
David McCosh

COURTENAY

Unit 200, 470 Puntledge Road
(250) 334-8888
Alan Dafoe

KELOWNA

Kelowna
1674 Bertram Street
(250) 862-8008
Ron Baker

Kelowna Industrial Centre
101 – 1505 Harvey Avenue
(250) 860-0088
Jim Kitchin

Cranbrook Satellite Office
2009 – 5 Street South
(250) 426-1140
Mike Eckersley

KAMLOOPS

Unit 112, 300 Columbia Street
(250) 828-1070
Hugh Sutherland

LANGLEY

100, 19915 – 64 Avenue
(604) 539-5088
Craig Martin

NANAIMO

101, 6475 Metral Drive
(250) 390-0088
Russ Burke

PRINCE GEORGE

300 Victoria Street
(250) 612-0123
David Duck

SURREY 

Strawberry Hill 
1, 7548 – 120 Street
(604) 591-1898
Rick Howard

VICTORIA

1201 Douglas Street
(250) 383-1206
Gerry Laliberte

SASKATCHEWAN

REGINA

#100, 1881 Scarth Street 
McCallum Hill Centre II
(306) 757-8888
Trent Bobinski

SASKATOON

244 – 2 Avenue S.
(306) 477-8888
Ron Kowalenko

YORKTON

45, 277 Broadway Street East
(306) 782-1002
Barb Apps

2001 2005 2004 2003 2002 3,440 3,828 4,344 4,919 5,705 Total Assets ($ millions) 0 1,000 2,000 3,000 4,000 5,000 6,000 2001 2005 2004 2003 2002 105 113 133 153 188 Total Revenues (teb) ($ millions) 0 40 80 120 160 200 2001 2005 2004 2003 2002 2,812 3,182 3,529 3,930 4,590 Total Loans ($ millions) 0 1,000 2,000 3,000 4,000 5,000 2001 2005 2004 2003 2002 0.23% 0.26% 0.25% 0.25% 0.24% Provision for Credit Losses  (as a percentage of average loans) Efficiency Ratio (teb)  (expenses to revenues) 0.00 0.25 0.50 0.75 1.00 2001 2005 2004 2003 2002 50.0% 50.7% 46.3% 49.8% 49.2% 0 25 50 75 100 2001 2005 2004 2003 2002 30 30 38 44 54 Net Income ($ millions) 0 15 30 45 60 CANADIAN WESTERN BANK ANNUAL REPORT 2005

CLEAR
THINKING

I

C
A
N
A
D
A
N
W
E
S
T
E
R
N
B
A
N
K
2
0
0
5
A
N
N
U
A
L
R
E
P
O
R
T

C
L
E
A
R
T
H
N
K
N
G

I

I

FIVE YEAR FINANCIAL SUMMARY

($ thousands, except per share amounts)

Results of Operations
Net interest income (teb)(1)
Less teb adjustment
Net interest income per financial statements
Other income
Total revenues (teb)
Total revenues
Net income
Return on common shareholders' equity
Return on average total assets
Per Common Share(2)
Average common shares outstanding (thousands)
Earnings per share

Basic
Diluted
Dividends(3)
Book value
Market price

High
Low
Close

Balance Sheet and Off-Balance Sheet Summary
Assets
Cash resources, securities 

and repurchase agreements

Loans
Deposits
Subordinated debentures
Shareholders' equity
Assets under administration
Capital Adequacy
Tangible common equity to risk-weighted assets
Tier 1 ratio
Total ratio
Other Information
Efficiency ratio (teb)
Efficiency ratio
Net interest margin (teb)
Net interest margin
Provision for credit losses

as a percentage of average loans

Net impaired loans as a percentage of total loans
Number of full-time equivalent staff(4)
Number of bank branches

2005

2004

2003

2002

2001 

$ 140,320 
3,975 
136,345
47,696 
188,016 
184,041 
54,391 

12.7%
1.03%

$

$

117,236
3,898
113,338 
36,099 
153,335 
149,437 
44,161 

12.9%
0.97%

107,655
2,992 
104,663 
25,326 
132,981 
129,989 
38,193 

12.9%
0.95%

$

91,284
2,449 
88,835 
22,136 
113,420 
110,971 
29,612 

11.2%
0.84%

$

85,501 
– 
85,501 
19,758 
105,259 
105,259 
30,145 

13.5%
0.95%

30,197 

26,782 

25,616 

25,258 

24,002 

$

1.80
1.74 
0.380
14.96 

40.70
22.08 
35.20 

$

$

1.65
1.50 
0.375
13.45 

24.13
19.13 
23.83 

$

1.49
1.34 
0.230
12.16 

20.00
11.63 
19.98 

1.17
1.07 
0.200
10.99 

14.68
11.63 
12.88 

$

1.26 
1.13 
0.180
10.04 

15.25 
11.15 
13.14 

$ 5,705,028

$ 4,918,895

$

4,343,972

$ 3,828,162

$3,439,568 

976,000
4,590,263
4,913,307
128,126
457,990
2,649,065

848,179 
3,930,114 
4,267,788 
110,600 
367,589 
1,759,473 

766,699 
3,529,003 
3,819,750 
121,951 
316,231 
1,474,964 

599,927 
3,182,316 
3,429,071 
57,126 
278,087 
1,166,489 

576,228 
2,811,640 
3,042,307 
67,126 
252,262 
873,538 

9.7%
9.7%
12.4%

49.2%
50.3%
2.66%
2.59%

0.24%
(0.68)%
999 
31 

9.0%
9.0%
11.8%

49.8%
51.1%
2.57%
2.48%

0.25%
(0.36)%
936 
29 

8.9%
8.9%
13.1%

46.3%
47.4%
2.68%
2.60%

0.25%
(0.36)%
632 
27 

8.8%
8.8%
11.4%

50.7%
51.8%
2.60%
2.53%

0.26%
0.13%
583 
27 

9.3%
9.3%
12.5%

50.0%
50.0%
2.69%
2.69%

0.23%
0.25%
548 
27 

(1) Most banks analyse revenue on a taxable equivalent basis (teb) to permit uniform measurement and comparison of net interest income. Net interest income (as presented 

in the consolidated statement of income) includes tax-exempt income on certain securities. Since this income is not taxable, the rate of interest or dividend received is

significantly lower than would apply to a loan or security of the same amount. The adjustment to taxable equivalent basis increases interest income and the provision for 

income taxes to what they would have been had the tax-exempt securities been taxed at the statutory rate. Prior to fiscal 2002, tax-exempt security income was

insignificant and no taxable equivalent adjustments were made. The taxable equivalent basis does not have a standardized meaning prescribed by generally accepted 

accounting principles (GAAP) and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other banks.

(2) A stock dividend effecting a two-for-one split of the Bank’s common shares was declared and paid in 2005. All prior period common share and per common share

information has been restated to reflect this effective split.

(3) The dividend policy was amended to be quarterly instead of semi-annually during the first quarter of fiscal 2004. The dividend rate for fiscal 2004 appears unusually high 

as it includes the last semi-annual dividend of $0.150 per share paid in the first quarter and quarterly dividends of $0.075 paid in subsequent quarters.

(4) The increase in employees in 2004 reflects the acquisitions of Canadian Direct Insurance Incorporated and Valiant Trust Company.