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Canadian Western Bank
Annual Report 2011

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FY2011 Annual Report · Canadian Western Bank
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SHARED VISION

WORKING TOGETHER TO REALIZE SUCCESS
Canadian Western Bank Group – Annual Report 2011

Canadian Western Bank Group at a Glance

(October 31, 2011)

Canadian Western Bank, along with 
its subsidiaries and operating divisions, 
comprise Canadian Western Bank Group

Subsidiary (Affiliate) Companies

Canadian Western 
Bank Group
Employees†: 1,900+
Clients: 600,000+ 
Total assets: $14.7 billion+
President & CEO:  Larry M. Pollock
Chairman: Allan W. Jackson

Canadian Direct Insurance

Employees†: 290+
Number of policies outstanding: 190,000+
Annual gross written premiums: $129 million+

Valiant Trust

Employees†: 40+
Client appointments in 2011 (#): 560+
Number of clients: 300+

Canadian Western Bank

Canadian Western Trust

Optimum Mortgage

Employees†: 1,200+
Consecutive profitable quarters: 94
Number of branches: 40

Employees†: 70+
Investment accounts (#): 47,000+
Total assets under administration: 
$6.7 billion+

Employees†: 40+
Total mortgages: $930 million+
Number of client mortgages: 
3,700+

Operating Division

Canadian Direct Financial

Established: 2008
Client deposits: $100 million+
Provinces and territories in Canada
where products are offered (#): 12

Operating Division

Adroit Investment 
Management

Employees†: 10+
Total assets under management: $815 million+
Number of client relationships: 300+

Canadian Western Financial

Mutual fund representatives (#): 120+
Number of mutual fund clients: 3,000+

National Leasing

Employees†: 260+
Total leases under management: $770 million+
Number of leases outstanding: 60,000+

† Includes both full- and part-time employees

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 (2)
Return on assets (3)
Per Common Share
Average common shares outstanding (thousands)
Earnings per share

Basic
Diluted
Diluted cash (4)

Dividends
Book value
Market price

High
Low
    Close
Balance Sheet and Off-Balance Sheet Summary
Assets
Cash resources, securities and resale agreements
Loans
Deposits
Subordinated debentures
Shareholders’ equity
Assets under administration
Assets under management
Capital Adequacy
Tangible common equity to risk-weighted assets (5)
Tier 1 ratio (6)
Total ratio (6)
Other Information
Efficiency ratio (teb) (7)
Efficiency ratio
Net interest margin (teb) (8)
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 (9)
Number of bank branches

2011

2010 

2009 

2008 

2007 

  $ 

384,683
11,059
373,624
106,331
491,014
479,995
178,149

  $ 

  328,664
11,186
317,478
105,595
434,259
423,073
163,621

  $ 

236,354
7,847
228,507
91,612
327,966
320,119
106,285

  $ 

228,617
5,671
222,946
70,240
298,857
293,186
102,019

210,659
5,410
205,249
62,821
273,480
268,070
96,282

15.6%    
1.20

17.1%    
1.24

13.2%    
0.86

15.9%    
1.03

17.4%
1.18

72,205

65,757

63,613

63,214

62,354

$ 

$ 

  $ 

  $ 

  $ 

 2.26
2.12
2.18
0.54
14.36

31.75
24.00
28.50

  $ 

 2.26
2.05
2.09
0.44
14.08

26.59
19.85
25.36

  $ 

1.51
1.47
1.49
0.44
12.16

23.00
7.52
21.38

1.61
1.58
1.59
0.42
10.70

32.20
14.67
18.44

$ 14,772,035
  2,238,039
  12,221,143
  12,499,689
545,000
  1,293,566
  9,369,589
816,219

  $  12,701,691
1,876,085
10,496,464
10,812,767
315,000
1,148,043
8,530,716
795,467

  $  11,635,872
2,188,512
9,236,193
9,617,238
375,000
986,499
5,467,447
878,095

  $  10,600,732
1,798,137
8,624,069
9,245,719
375,000
679,148
4,347,723

8.6%    

11.1
15.4

45.3%    
46.3
2.82
2.74

0.20
0.21
1,796
40

8.5%    
11.3    
14.3

44.1%    
45.3    
2.74    
2.64    

0.21    
0.62    

 1,716 
39 

8.0%    
11.3
15.4

48.2%    
49.4
2.10
2.03

0.15 
 0.68 
 1,339
37 

—  

7.7%    
8.9
13.5

45.2%    
46.1
2.30
2.25

0.15  
0.19 
 1,284 
36 

1.54
1.50
1.50
0.34
9.48

30.86
20.78
30.77

9,525,040
1,961,241
7,405,580
8,256,918
390,000
595,493
4,283,900
—

7.7%
9.1
13.7

44.6%
45.5
2.58
2.51

0.16  
 (0.57)
1,185 
35 

(1)  Most banks analyze 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 statements 
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. 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)  Return on common shareholders’ equity is calculated as net income after preferred share dividends divided 

(5)  Tangible common equity to risk-weighted assets is calculated as shareholders’ equity less subsidiary 

goodwill divided by risk-weighted assets, calculated in accordance with guidelines issued by the Office of the 
Superintendent of Financial Institutions Canada (OSFI). As of November 1, 2007, OSFI adopted a new capital 
management framework called Basel II, and capital is managed and reported in accordance with those 
requirements. Capital ratios prior to fiscal 2008 have been calculated using the previous framework.

(6)  Tier 1 and total capital adequacy ratios are calculated in accordance with guidelines issued by OSFI. As 

of November 1, 2007, OSFI adopted a new capital management framework called Basel II, and capital is 
managed and reported in accordance with those requirements. Capital ratios prior to fiscal 2008 have been 
calculated using the previous framework.

by average common shareholders’ equity.

(3)  Return on assets is calculated as net income after preferred share dividends divided by average total assets.

(4)  Diluted cash earnings per share is diluted earnings per common share excluding the after-tax amortization 

of acquisition-related intangible assets.

(7)  Efficiency ratio is calculated as non-interest expenses divided by total revenues.

(8)  Net interest margin is calculated as net interest income divided by average total assets.

(9)  The significant increase in the number of full-time equivalent staff in 2010 compared to the prior year 

reflects CWB’s acquisition of National Leasing Group Inc., effective February 1, 2010.

 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
 
   
   
   
   
 
   
   
   
   
 
   
   
   
   
 
   
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
 
   
   
   
   
 
   
   
   
   
 
   
   
   
   
 
   
   
   
   
   
 
   
   
   
   
 
   
   
   
   
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
   
   
   
 
   
   
   
 
   
   
   
 
   
   
   
 
   
   
   
 
   
   
   
   
 
 
  
  
  
Our History of Financial Performance

www.cwbankgroup.com

Total Assets ($ millions)

Total Loans ($ millions)

14,772

11,636

12,702

10,601

9,525

8,624

9,236

7,406

12,221

10,496

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

Total Revenue (teb) ($ millions)

Net Income ($ millions)

491

434

178

163

299

328

273

96

102

106

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

Provision for Credit Losses 
(as a percentage of average loans)

Efficiency Ratio (teb) 
(expenses to revenues)

44.6%

45.2%

48.2%

44.1%

45.3%

0.16%

0.15%

0.15%

0.21%

0.20%

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

Performance Targets

Net income growth (1) 
Net income growth, before taxes (teb) (2) 
Total revenue (teb) growth 
Loan growth 
Provision for credit losses as a percentage of average loans 
Efficiency ratio (teb) 
Return on common shareholders’ equity (3) 
Return on assets (4) 

2011
Minimum Targets

2011
Performance

6% 
10% 
12% 
10% 
0.20 to 0.25% 
46% or less 
15% 
1.20% 

9%
11%
13% 
16% 
0.20% 
45.3% 
15.6%
1.20%

(1)  Net income before preferred  
  share dividends.
(2)  Net income before income  
taxes (teb), non-controlling  
interest in subsidiary and  
  preferred share dividends.
(3) Return on common equity
  calculated as net income after  
  preferred share dividends 
  divided by average common  
  shareholders’ equity.
(4)  Return on assets calculated  
  as net income after preferred  
  share dividends divided    
  by average total assets.

 
 
No matter what you want to achieve, it helps to work 
alongside people who share the same vision. Here 
at Canadian Western Bank Group (CWB Group), we’re 
proud that our management teams and dedicated 
employees share a common vision of what a financial 
institution can, and should, be. This shared commitment 
to provide exceptional service and customized client 
solutions has shaped how we have done business 
since our inception almost 30 years ago, and it’s how 
we continue to serve our clients and add value for 
shareholders today. It has created an organization that 
is focused, aligned and strong enough to both embrace 
opportunities and weather challenges. It has directed 
our success and growth, and allowed us to do what 
we do while always striving to do better.

In the pages that follow, you’ll learn more about CWB Group’s successes and initiatives over the 

past year. You’ll see how our shared vision guided us as we achieved record financial performance 

despite uncertainties in the global economy and financial markets. You’ll also discover how this 

vision shapes our strategies to deliver products and services that help our clients achieve their 

financial goals. We are confident that our pursuit of this shared vision will give CWB shareholders 

the best possible return on their investment over time.

Table of Contents

1 

2 

4 

Shared Vision

CWB Group

An Interview with Larry Pollock,

President and CEO

8 

An Interview with Allan Jackson, 

Board Chair

Canadian Western Bank

Canadian Western Financial

Canadian Direct Financial

National Leasing

Canadian Western Trust

Optimum Mortgage

Valiant Trust

Canadian Direct Insurance

Adroit Investment Management

Corporate Social Responsibility

Corporate Governance

Board of Directors

Executive Committee and 

Senior Officers

Shareholder Information

Award of Excellence Recipients

10 

14 

15 

16 

17 

18 

19 

20 

21 

22 

28 

29 

31 

32 

32 

33  Management’s Discussion and Analysis

84 

Financial Statements

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

1

Shared Vision 
 
 
CWB Group

The ability to listen to and understand your 
clients’ needs while helping them reach their 
goals is essential to building a successful 
financial services organization. You also need 
extraordinary employees who are guided 
by strong principles and who can deliver the 
right combination of products and services. 
Operating across multiple pillars of the financial 
services industry requires a group of companies 
that are driven by a common vision of what 
really matters. We believe we offer our clients 
and shareholders exactly that.

Our focus on taking care of our clients, 
employees and our communities has served 
us and our shareholders well for almost three 
decades. It has helped us grow and evolve, 
while ensuring we stay true to our fundamental 
values. It has guided us successfully through 
numerous economic cycles, including the 
fallouts of a global financial crisis. It has made 
us who we are today – and continues to 
shape who we will become. 

CWB Group is made up of Canadian Western 
Bank (CWB or the Bank) and eight operating 
companies/divisions that offer services in the 
areas of banking, trust, insurance and wealth 
management. We currently serve clients across 
Canada through our network of 40 banking 
branches, corporate headquarters, a centralized 
equipment leasing office, eight trust locations, 
two insurance call centres and one wealth 
management location. 

CWB’s affiliate companies include National Leasing, 
Canadian Western Trust, Valiant Trust, Canadian 
Direct Insurance, Adroit Investment Management 
and Canadian Western Financial. Canadian Direct 
Financial is a division of the Bank, while Optimum 
Mortgage is a division of Canadian Western Trust. 
As Western Canada’s largest publicly traded 
Canadian bank, we have combined balance 
sheet assets of almost $15 billion, including more 
than $12 billion of total loans. Our assets under 
administration surpassed $9 billion in 2011 and 
assets under management are approaching 
$1 billion. Together, the CWB Group now employs 
more than 1,900 people in 50-plus communities 
across Canada. 

CWB Group Employees by Province

Manitoba

Ontario (and other)

936

Alberta 

652

British Columbia

254 65

32

Saskatchewan

2

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

“CWB Group’s strength is 
based on the talents and  
dedication of our diverse  
team of employees. 
We are not just a bank; 
together, we represent 
a growing financial 
institution that offers 
a full range of products 
that are delivered with 
the exceptional level 
of personal service that 
our clients have come 
to expect.”

Tracey Ball, Executive Vice President 
and Chief Financial Officer 
Canadian Western Bank

Our shared vision
CWB Group’s vision and mission guide how we 
work. We provide exceptional service and deliver 
customized client solutions in areas where we 
have proven expertise. We are headquartered in 
Western Canada and have a unique understanding 
of both the opportunities and challenges that 
exist in our key markets. We’ve also proven that 
the right mix of organic growth and carefully 
considered strategic acquisitions are an effective 
way to expand our client offerings and increase 
value for CWB shareholders. Finally, we know our 
conservative growth strategies – backed by high 
quality assets, a strong capital base and an ongoing 
focus on business fundamentals – have been 
integral to what we’ve achieved so far. As we look 
to the future, we believe this understanding makes 
us a smart choice for both clients and investors. 

Our shared vision of what’s important and 
what’s possible has guided the development of 
CWB Group’s vision to “be crucial to our clients’ 
futures.”  It has also driven the development of 
our strategic plan which is based on two themes: 
“do what we do, only better,” and “make the 
whole worth more than the sum of the parts.” 
For us, this means continuing to improve upon 
the things that make us successful. We also 
recognize many of our clients don’t realize most 
of their financial needs can be met right here – 
by people they already know and trust. This means 
we have to work harder to help clients recognize 
the full range of services CWB Group can provide.  

CWB Group’s 
Executive Team
Left to Right: Tracey 
Ball, Randy Garvey, 
Chris Fowler,  
Brian Young,  
Bill Addington 
and Larry Pollock

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

3

An Interview with Larry Pollock

President  and Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Q. The theme of this year’s annual report

is “Shared Vision.” How has a shared vision 
contributed to CWB Group’s historical 
success, and how important is it for the 
Group’s future?  

A.  First of all, I believe it’s crucial for everybody 
who works for this organization to share a 
similar set of core values and to appreciate 
the importance of our strong organizational 
culture. If you hire people or acquire companies 
that want or believe in something completely 
different, it’s going to be very challenging to 
manage, let alone cultivate success. When 
everybody shares the same vision, we know 
we’re all pulling in the same direction and very 
few changes are necessary. National Leasing 
is a good example of this. When they first joined 
us, the President asked, “What’s going to change 
for us?” and I said, “The shareholder.”  That was 
all. We knew there were areas where we could 
help each other do better, but nothing else 
needed to change because we already shared 
a similar vision.

Q. CWB Group had another year of record
performance in 2011. When you reflect 
on the past year, are there any particular 
highlights that stand out for you?  

A.  I think in order to reflect on our successes 

this past year, you need to look even further 
back to the recessionary period in 2008-2009. 
To support our clients through those tough 
times, we knew we should be highly liquid and 
have lots of capital because that’s when many 
of them needed us the most. We also wanted 
to continue to grow, which we did, and it’s 
really phenomenal because many other banks 
were shrinking during that period as they re-
evaluated their priorities. In fact, over the past 
22 years, we’ve never had a year where we 
didn’t grow. And, of those 22 years, 21 were 
years with double-digit loan growth. We had 
tremendous 16 per cent loan growth in 2011 – 
which I believe was much higher than anyone 
else in the industry – and I think that’s largely 
the result of what we did during the recession, 
when we stood by our clients and continued 

4

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

to lend. We also attracted a lot of new clients. 
Our commitment to continue to invest in the 
development of our people and infrastructure 
is also paying off nicely for us. We continue to 
focus on our core businesses, our people and 
our clients. We believe our success in taking care 
of these key factors is what will ultimately build 
value for CWB shareholders over time. That’s 
why we developed our strategic theme of 
 “do what we do, only better.”

Q. The business strategies have always

been focused on specific areas of financial 
services, whether you’re speaking 
about product offerings or your primary 
geographic footprint in Western Canada.  
How has this focus contributed to CWB 
Group’s success, and will you maintain this 
strategy in the future?

A.  In order to be successful, we’ve always felt

you need to be a little bit different, particularly 
when most of our competitors are much larger 
organizations. We like to think of ourselves 
as relationship builders. When we saw the 
industry moving away from relationship-based 
financial services many years ago, particularly 
on the business banking side, we knew it was 
an opportunity for us. When you call us, we 
answer the phone – every time. When you walk 
into one of our branches or offices, our goal is to 
provide thoughtful service right away, because 
a person’s money or their business is very 
personal to them. Their time is important, too. 
People don’t want to deal with some impersonal 
entity. We’ve also found that concentrating our 
efforts on doing certain things really well is a 
much more effective strategy than trying to be 
all things to all people. Being headquartered 
in Western Canada is definitely an advantage 
because it allows us to grow in our own 
backyard, a place where we are best positioned 
to identify the opportunities and challenges in 
our key markets. Our business focus also allows 
us to offer an increased level of expertise and a 
unique perspective on issues that are relevant 
to our clients. We are different, and we provide 
a different brand of service.  

“We believe our
success in taking care 
of our core businesses, 
our people and our 
clients is what will 
ultimately build value 
for CWB shareholders 
over time.”

Q. The CWB Group is now comprised 

of several businesses that offer services 
across different pillars of the financial 
services industry. Can you explain some 
of the synergies among the companies 
in CWB Group and if there are additional 
opportunities to offer more services to 
existing clients? 

A.  People have a relationship with us, so our
ability to offer clients a range of products 
and services across the different pillars of our 
business means they can get more of what they 
need directly from us, an organization they 
already know and trust. Clients really appreciate 
that. Our challenge is we haven’t let many of 
our existing clients know about all the other 
products and services we offer. So we’re working 
on that. Sometimes this can be as simple as 
asking our clients for the right to earn more of 
their business. We’re also taking additional time 
to identify cross-partnering opportunities. These 
initiatives are the primary focus of our second 
strategic theme to “make the whole worth more 
than the sum of the parts.”  

Q. CWB Group has a long history of strong

growth achieved through a combination 
of organic development and successful 
acquisitions. How is CWB Group positioned 
to maintain its strong organic growth? 

A.  Our business model has always been built on
organic growth, whether it’s the Bank or any 
of our affiliate companies.  We still have lots of 
untapped potential across all our businesses. 
In addition to achieving record results this year 
within the Bank, National Leasing’s earnings 
were far beyond their best year ever. Canadian 
Western Trust, which also includes Optimum 
Mortgage, had a record year as well. Valiant 
Trust continued to develop and is now much 
larger than when we acquired it. Canadian 

Direct Insurance continues to grow steadily 
and, in addition to contributing solid earnings 
growth, provides good diversification because 
it’s less susceptible to economic swings.  

People sometimes ask why our dividend payout 
ratio is low compared to the large Canadian 
banks. It’s because we reinvest a much greater 
share of our earnings to build our capital and 
support growth. We also leave the capital in 
place within our various companies so we can 
say, “use it to grow.” Because, if you have the raw 
materials to grow, you will. We know it works. 
In fact, we’re projecting double-digit growth 
again for 2012.

Q. Are you currently looking at any  
  acquisition opportunities?

A. We’re always interested in purchasing high
quality loan portfolios, but, when it comes 
to strategic acquisitions, you have to be more 
patient. We never budget for an acquisition. 
If it happens, it’s great; if it doesn’t, that’s okay, 
too. We’re looking for the prince among the 
frogs. As I mentioned, we believe we still have 
lots of growth potential organically, so we’re 
happy to wait for an acquisition that we know 
is a good fit with both our culture and our 
current lines of business. We’ve learned over 
the years that patience is a huge benefit, and 
sometimes your best possible move when 
considering a potential acquisition is no 
move at all. 

Q. In light of macroeconomic factors and

ongoing uncertainty in the United States 
(U.S.) and globally, what are your thoughts 
on Canada’s economic outlook? How 
do you expect this will impact CWB 
Group’s businesses?

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

5

 
“Our growth numbers
are very impressive, as 
was the improvement 
in the quality of our 
loan portfolio, but 
I’m most proud of the 
incredible people we 
have working here.”

An Interview with Larry Pollock (Continued)

President & CEO

A.  I think Canada is in great shape compared

to the rest of the world, but we also have to be 
mindful of global economic risks outside our 
control. We’ve got a positive outlook, particularly 
for our key markets in Western Canada. However, 
if Europe goes into a further tailspin due to debt 
problems, or the U.S. goes back into recession, or 
if growth in China drops significantly, there’s no 
doubt these types of circumstances would have 
an impact on our markets and our customers. 
So, we always closely monitor these things. 
We’re prepared for challenges, but maintain 
a positive view. We have lots of capital, low 
leverage and we’re ready to take advantage 
of opportunities. We’re very pleased with our 
strategy, and it’s working well for our clients and 
our shareholders.

Q. What would you say are the most

significant risks faced by Canadian financial 
institutions in today’s environment? 

A.  Risks and uncertainties with regard to global
banking regulations are definitely something 
we’re monitoring very closely. The industry is 
evolving toward much more stringent global 
capital and liquidity standards. The new rules 
will be implemented starting in 2013, and 
Canadian banks are generally very well 
positioned to meet the requirements, but I 
think regulators and governments have a very 
challenging job to ensure they maintain effective 
regulatory standards without inhibiting the 
ability of banks to support economic growth 
through lending. Regulations also need to 
ensure Canadian banks stay on a relatively level 
playing field with global banks that may be 
subject to less stringent rules. That being said, 
with change there’s always opportunity. 
What are the potential advantages for us? 
Fortunately, CWB already meets the higher 
capital standards so, as we move forward, 
we need to determine how to better take 
advantage of this enviable position.

Q. Can you explain what you are currently
seeing in your markets as it relates 
to competition? 

A.  We’re seeing that growth is a challenge 

for many of our competitors and a lot of them, 
in order to achieve growth, are price cutting. 
And that puts additional pressure on margins in 
an already low interest rate environment. When 
stores have a lot of inventory and they need to 
sell more product, they have a sale. That’s what 
we’re seeing right now. There’s an industry-
wide focus on growing market share, so there’s 
a sale on money. It certainly does affect us, but 
some of our business lines are a bit different, so 
we can manage the pressure more easily. Our 
heavy equipment financing is a good example. 
This is a big part of our business, but it’s not an 
area that’s top-of-mind for most of our larger 
banking competitors. And the competitors we 
do have – the factory finance companies and 
others – often don’t offer the same full range 
of services we do, or have the same channels 
for funding. We can give clients products like 
a business bank account, preapproved lines 
of credit or payroll services, whereas many of 
our competitors are simply transactional. As 
I previously mentioned, the benefit we receive 
from the relationships built during the tough 
times is also significant. 

Q. You have a very deep and highly
experienced management team. 
How is the team structured under 
your leadership, and how do you see 
this talent contributing to the Group’s 
ongoing success? 

A.  We have one chief operating officer and four
executive vice presidents who report to 
me. Each one of them runs a part of our 
organization – I only provide direction to them. 
The head of National Leasing also reports to 
me. Our management structure works well 
by providing short lines of communication, 
so we all know what’s going on and can make 
decisions quickly.  We develop strategies as 

6

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

a team, and the depth and experience of our 
management means I’m quite often just the last 
bounce to provide some additional perspective 
and a final answer. And I guarantee that when 
you ask me a question you will get an answer. 
That has been my management style for my 
entire career, and I can tell you it pays off. 
I may not always be right, but I’d hope others 
would see me as batting nine out of ten.

All members of the executive management 
team have been hand-picked for their jobs. 
And there’s a solid layer of experience and talent 
behind them as well. There is a succession plan 
charted for every key position. We’re fortunate 
we have exemplary employees at every level. 
Our people are self-motivated to do their best 
and care about the company in ways that go 
beyond their job descriptions. One good example 
this past year was when Marie Thompson, a 
telecommunications officer, found the Bank 
had been incorrectly charged for several years 
by one of our service providers. She took it 
upon herself to track down the appropriate 
information and succeeded in getting the 
Bank a refund. It was a significant amount, 
so this was no small task. We encourage people 
to make their own decisions and do what’s 
right, and that’s exactly what Marie did. 

Q. You have been President and CEO for 

over 22 years. Can you speak a bit about 
your personal plans moving forward over 
the next few years?

A.  At 22 years, I may just be the longest serving
chief executive officer in Canada’s banking 
industry. I’m quite proud of that. In the early days, 
the Bank was very small, and it was really a labour 
of love. I joined because I saw it as a tremendous 
opportunity to build something. I’ve been very 
fortunate to be a part of this. I always tell people 
the real satisfaction in life is doing something 
every day that you enjoy. And I’m definitely still 
enjoying every day of my time at CWB Group.

Once I step down from this role, I will stay on 
for another two years as a special consultant 
to the Board of Directors – so I’ll be involved for 
awhile yet. I love business and the challenge 
of identifying opportunities and proposing 
solutions. And there are still many things I 
want to see accomplished here before I leave. 
A few years ago, we established five-year 
performance targets that included a goal to 
surpass $200 million of net income by the end 
of 2013. I’m optimistic that before I’ve completed 
my time as CEO we’ll be positioned to adjust 
that target upward quite a bit. 

Q. What were you most proud of during 

the year? 

A.  I think our growth numbers are very impressive,

as was the improvement in the quality of 
our loan portfolio, but I’m most proud of the 
incredible people we have working here. 
They’re the biggest part of our success. I’m 
particularly proud of the development of some 
of our younger people. I recently met with our  
equipment financing group and I asked how 
many came through our management associate 
program. I bet about 35 hands went up out of 
the 70 people in the room. That’s just incredible, 
because we hired and trained most of these 
people right out of school. It’s a great example 
of the benefits of both growing your own talent 
and giving people strong career opportunities. 

Q. Looking ahead, what are CWB Group’s 
  key objectives for 2012 and beyond? 

A.  Our objective is to remain focused on our core
businesses and build on our history of double-
digit growth. Overall, we’re very excited about 
our future, in both the short term and the 
long term. I’m looking forward to CWB Group 
posting another year of record performance 
in 2012 – that’s what we’ve budgeted for – 
and we’ll see where we go from there. The 
possibilities are pretty remarkable. 

Marie Thompson receives recognition from CWB 
Group and Larry Pollock for going above and 
beyond in her role as telecommunications officer. 

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

7

 
“I’m proud to say I believe
our Board members and 
management teams all 
share a similar set of 
core values, while still 
thinking independently 
about shared objectives.”

An Interview with Allan Jackson

Board Chair

Q. You’ve just completed your first full 

year as Chair of the Board of Directors 
(the Board) – what has been your main 
focus and how have things changed 
under your leadership? 

A.  Our main focus has always been on people

and strategy, and I wouldn’t say that has really 
changed. We try to spend most of our time on 
strategic questions – questions related to the 
businesses of CWB Group: What are the risks 
we face? How are our markets changing?  
What are we best at? What do our clients want? 
What can we do better? 

Q. When you say the Board is focused 
  on people, what does that mean?

A.  It means we look at what our employees

need to be happy and productive because – 
like any business – a company is only as 
good as its people. So we make it a priority 
to work with management to ensure we 
provide our people with the right tools, 
the right training and the opportunity to 
advance in their careers. We have to listen 
to feedback– both ideas and criticism – and 
be prepared to support change. We believe 
companies that focus on the needs of their 
clients, and their people, always succeed. 
And that means the shareholders succeed. 

Q. How important is a shared vision to 
the Board and the work you do?

A.  I believe it’s vitally important to have a shared
vision that guides where an organization is 
trying to go. Otherwise, it’s very difficult to 
succeed. CWB’s strategies are developed 
based on broad input from various levels 
throughout the Group. Once established 
and approved by the Board, we work together 
to ensure the strategies are effectively 
implemented. The Board and management 
also have to be open to identifying changed 
circumstances, and, if warranted, be ready 
to act. I’m proud to say I believe our Board 
members and management teams all share 
a similar set of core values, while still thinking 
independently about shared objectives.

8

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

Q. What do you think are CWB Group’s 
  most important competitive  
  advantages? 

A.  Without doubt, I think our number one

advantage is our people. There is just no 
substitute for talented, hard-working 
people. Even with a great idea, you need 
the right people to pull it off effectively, 
and that’s what we have. 

I think our second competitive advantage 
is we stay focused on doing what we 
understand, and doing it well. We’re 
always open to new ideas, but we need to 
understand how something works or how 
it leverages our skills, or we don’t go after 
it. When you look over the fence and see 
someone else making a lot of money at a 
particular business, it can be tempting to 
pursue it. At the end of the day, you need 
discipline to remain focused on what you 
do best. It means ignoring many potential 
distractions while still staying open to real 
opportunities in your markets. 

Q. How do the contributions and expertise
from the Bank’s affiliate companies 
make CWB Group stronger?

A.  Typically, when we expand through

acquisition, we’re dealing with a closely 
related business like National Leasing. 
National Leasing specializes in the small- 
and mid-ticket leasing business, which was 
a part of the leasing business we weren’t 
in. We believed we could learn from each 
other. And we have.

It also works well when we find related 
businesses that can offer services to 
existing CWB Group clients. A good 
example is Adroit, which now provides 
investment management services to many 
banking clients, and to the Bank itself. Or 
Valiant Trust, which provides stock transfer 
and related shareholder services to public 
companies, some of which are also clients 
of the Bank. In both these situations, as well 
as others, there are also opportunities for 
the Bank to provide services to the clients of 
these businesses – so it works both ways. 

 
 
“CWB Group once 
again met or exceeded 
all growth targets in all 
categories, across all 
divisions.”

We are also very proud of the success of 
Canadian Western Trust and Canadian Direct 
Insurance. In fact, in 2011, Canadian Direct 
was named “Highest in Customer Satisfaction 
among Auto Insurers in Western Canada,” 
by J.D. Power and Associates.

Our affiliate companies also bring great 
people into the CWB family. We’ve benefited 
from their talent while giving them more 
opportunities to grow and develop. In turn, 
both our financial performance and client 
service get better and better. 

Q. CWB added three new members to its
Board in 2011. What type of attributes 
and experience do you look for when 
recruiting new Board members? 

A.  We always start by looking for individuals 
who share a common view of what’s 
important. For us, that means integrity with a 
firm belief in the importance of being service-
oriented and people-focused – the attributes 
that underpin the values of the CWB Group. 
If you share these, you’re very likely to buy 
into the vision. As a Board, we believe that 
providing a great place to work and offering 
a high level of customer service are what 
drives success and, ultimately, the bottom line.

We also look for individuals with a strong 
business background, a reputation for 
clear thinking, common sense and the 
strength to stand up for what they believe 
is right. Then we look for specific skills that 
we know will complement the skills of 
those who already serve on the Board. 

Q. Has the Board made any recent changes 

in terms of corporate governance?

A.  With the financial crisis that occurred in 2008,
the entire banking industry worldwide and 
its regulators started focusing on better ways 
to identify and manage risk. CWB Group has 
always managed its risks wisely and, as a 
result, I think we came through the banking 
crisis as well as any bank. We’re very proud 
of that. Even through the worst of the crisis, 

we were profitable every quarter. In fact, 
we posted record net income in 2008 and 
each year since. We’ve been profitable for 94 
consecutive quarters, which is a phenomenal 
record. Still, we always strive to do better. Over 
the past year, we’ve been developing a more 
robust risk management framework that will 
help us better understand all the risks we face 
and how they are interrelated, and ensure 
we have the tools to identify and address 
emerging risks. However, it’s important to 
note the objective is not to eliminate risk. 
Risk is the business we’re in. The objective 
is to make sure it is managed prudently. 

Q. Larry Pollock has been the President 
and CEO for more than 20 years 
– what are the Board’s plans to 
identify CWB Group’s next leader?

A.  Larry has announced he will retire as

President and CEO in March 2013, and we’re 
already well along in our succession planning 
process. Larry has led the organization 
to become what it is today. Through that 
process, he has also built an incredibly 
talented management team that, like our 
Board, firmly believes in our shared values 
and vision of what’s important for CWB 
Group and our clients. Whoever steps into 
Larry’s role will be very fortunate to have 
a remarkably strong and committed team 
behind them, not only at the executive 
level, but at all levels within CWB Group. 

Q. From your perspective, what was 

CWB Group’s most significant achievement 
over the past year? Did anything 
surprise you?

A.  I think our most significant achievement in 
2011 is that CWB Group once again met or 
exceeded all growth targets in all categories, 
across all divisions. And no, it didn’t surprise 
me. I’m always impressed, but I’m not 
surprised anymore by what the people 
in this organization can do.

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

9

 
Canadian Western Bank

cwbank.com • theworkingbank.ca

It’s amazing how much you can accomplish 
in just over a quarter of a century. When we 
finished our first year of operations in 1984,  
we had only 25 employees and assets of just  
$50 million. Today, Canadian Western Bank 
(CWB or the Bank) has assets approaching $15 
billion and is the seventh largest Schedule I bank 
in Canada measured by market capitalization.  

We take a common-sense approach to banking, 
with most of our revenues earned through 
traditional spread lending. This means we take 
client deposits and responsibly use this money 
to offer sensible loans to businesses and 
individuals across Western Canada and other 
select regions. Simply put, the difference 
between what we earn on loans and what we 
pay on deposits is referred to as net interest 
income, or the spread on loans. While this may 
seem almost too straightforward in today’s 
highly complex world, that’s the way we like it. 

We’ve proven that a 
relatively simple strategy 
can be highly effective.

This common-sense approach continued 
to serve us well throughout 2011. Despite 
market volatility and global economic 
uncertainties, we achieved record total 
revenues, on a taxable equivalent basis (teb), 
of $491 million, record net income of $178 
million and exceptional annual loan growth 
of 16 per cent. Our provision for bad loans 
also remained very low, representing only 
0.20 per cent of average loans outstanding. 
We realized our 94th consecutive profitable 
quarter, which marked almost 24 years of 
uninterrupted profitability. We also opened 
our 40th branch in Western Canada with 
a new full-service business and personal 
banking centre in Richmond, British 
Columbia (BC). Looking forward, we plan 
to further develop our infrastructure in a 
cost-effective manner that will both enhance 
service and facilitate future growth. 

Composition of CWB Group 2011 Total Revenues (teb)

Breakdown of Other Income Categories

78%

Net Interest 
Income (teb)

22%

Other Income
Categories

7%

4%

4%
2%
2%

3%

10

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

Credit related

Insurance, net

Trust and wealth 
management

Retail services

Gains on sale of securities

Other

Scott Weiss, AVP, Real Estate Lending
Canadian Western Bank

CWB Group Loans by 
Location of Security 
(October 31, 2011)

46%

What we do best
Our focus from the start has been to build on 
our expertise in business banking for small- 
to mid-sized companies. We are positioned to 
understand the unique needs of business clients 
in Western Canada and we also recognize their 
significant potential. We specialize in general 
commercial lending, equipment financing 
and leasing, commercial real estate financing, 
real estate construction financing, and energy 
lending. A quick glance at this list shows that 
our areas of expertise are a reflection of the 
industries that drive much of Western Canada’s 
economic prosperity. And that’s no coincidence. 

Our commitment to serving the banking needs 
of our business clients is reflected in our ongoing 
awareness advertising campaign. Now in its 
third year, “The Working Bank®” marketing 
and sales activities have created new business 
opportunities for CWB. The latest campaign 
theme, “The Way We Work,” expands on the 
original messaging and increases awareness 
of what we do and what we offer in our key 
markets. We know what it takes for businesses 
to grow and succeed, and confirm this expertise 
by offering a series of customer testimonials 

and profiles in both our advertising and on our 
website theworkingbank.ca. We understand 
our clients’ businesses and we share their 
entrepreneurial spirit. 

In addition to our many business banking 
offerings, we also have a full range of personal 
banking products and services – everything 
from personal chequing/savings accounts 
to Guaranteed Investment Certificates (GICs), 
mortgages, personal lending and a wide range 
of third-party mutual funds. Many of our 
business clients are also personal clients 
because they recognize that our commitment 
to exceptional service and customized 
solutions applies to everything we do. 

Whether it’s a business looking for a bank 
that understands its needs, or individuals 
who appreciate a uniquely western Canadian 
banking experience, we work to build lasting 
professional relationships with our clients. We 
think the fact that so many of our first clients are 
still with us today speaks volumes about what 
we offer and the way we do business. And we’re 
working hard to ensure they have every reason 
to stay with us for many years to come.

Loans by Lending Portfolio (October 31, 2011)

22%

21%

15%

17%

16%

Commercial 
mortgages

General 
commercial
loans

Real estate 
project 
loans

Personal 
loans & 
mortgages

Equipment 
financing & 
leasing

Corporate 
loans

Oil & gas 
production 
loans

6%

3% 

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

11

Alberta33%6%12%3%British ColumbiaSaskatchewanOntario (and other)Manitoba“When it comes to
building long-term 
relationships, trust is 
essential. Our clients 
know who we are and 
what we stand for, and 
they can be confident 
that we’ll be here in both 
the good times and the 
bad to support them in 
reaching their goals.”

Randy Garvey
Executive Vice President
Canadian Western Bank

Canadian Western Bank

cwbank.com • theworkingbank.ca

The right way to work
We’ve always held ourselves to the same 
standards our clients use to measure their 
success. We work hard and stay focused on 
what we understand and do best. We endeavour 
to make smart decisions and always look for 
ways to improve our efficiency and increase 
productivity. In fact, CWB has one of the best 
efficiency ratios in the financial services industry. 
The efficiency ratio measures how much we 
spend on operating costs to earn $1 of revenue. 
CWB’s efficiency ratio of 45.3 per cent means 
we spent less than 46 cents to generate every 
$1 of revenues in 2011 – this compares to the 
average of Canada’s six largest banks of 58.5 
per cent. We believe our commitment to focus 
on what matters, while keeping expenses down 
and productivity up, matches how our clients 
run their businesses.

This year’s implementation of our new loan 
origination system in all CWB branches is a good 
example of how we enhance our business and 
increase efficiency. This new system, named 
WAVE™, provides a streamlined credit application 
process that will allow us to make faster credit 
decisions and improve client response times. 

It will give our account managers more time 
to spend with clients, getting to know their 
business and building even better relationships. 
In addition to making the entire loan process 
quicker and more efficient, WAVE™ will also 
significantly enhance our tracking and portfolio 
management capabilities. This adds value for 
shareholders by giving us more tools to further 
optimize the Bank’s credit profile and overall 
capital structure.

Our focus on efficiency is balanced with 
our efforts to grow and diversify the Bank’s 
revenues. We plan to increase sources of 
fee-based income by enhancing product 
offerings and expanding our business banking 
relationships with existing clients. Our success 
in growing and diversifying the Bank’s deposit 
base will ensure we can support sustained asset 
growth. This includes further developing our 
strong base of branch-raised deposits as well as 
other efficient funding sources. One significant 
success in further diversifying our funding base 
in 2011 was our first-ever issuance of floating 
rate deposits in the debt capital markets. 

Efficiency Ratio (teb) - Industry Comparison

62.8%

62.1%

60.9%

57.6%

58.5%

44.6%

45.2%

48.2%

44.1%

45.3%

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

12

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

CWB Group

Average of the six 
largest Canadian 
banks(1)

(1) Average of the six 

largest Canadian banks 
is calculated based on 
information contained  
in the publicly available 
  company reports of the 
  following (TSX Trading  
  Symbols): BMO, BNS, CM,  
  NA, RY, and TD.

 
 
 
 
 
“We’ve always remained
focused on the industries 
and opportunities we 
understand because our 
competitive advantages 
are centred on doing 
what we do best. That 
being said, we also 
recognize there are 
many ways we can 
do things better.”

Chris Fowler
Chief Operating Officer
Canadian Western Bank

We constantly look for strategies to improve 
profitability while staying true to our service 
commitment. Many people come to us 
because they appreciate our ability to deliver 
outstanding service, competitive products and 
client-focused solutions. Once they’ve worked 
with us, they know we will recommend what 
we believe are the best ways for them to reach 
their goals. We view our clients as partners; 
we support them and value their choice to do 
business with us. And that, in turn, allows us to 
build value for CWB shareholders. 

We also work to help our employees reach 
their professional and personal goals. We value 
their contributions and offer them a positive, 
diverse work environment that recognizes 
their successes, encourages their community 
involvement and creates opportunities for 
professional growth. Our commitment to being 
an employer of choice resulted in CWB being 
named one of the 50 Best Employers in Canada 
for the sixth consecutive year. 

Additional key factors that allow us to 
maintain consistent profitability are our 
strong credit discipline and secured lending 
practices. We take pride in our ability to 
provide clients with the financing they 
need, while also ensuring we are not 
taking any undue risks for CWB’s other key 
stakeholders. This requires us to understand 
the financial metrics and security behind 
every loan. We also work closely with our 
clients to quickly and effectively manage 
troubled accounts. This unwavering 
commitment to strong credit underwriting 
has led to lower loan losses for CWB 
compared to other Canadian banks when 
measured against total loans, and is another 
way we add value for CWB shareholders.

Provision for Credit Losses (as a % of average loans) - Industry Comparison

1.0

0.8

0.6

0.4

0.2

0

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

CWB Group

Average of the six largest Canadian banks(1)

(1) Average of the six largest Canadian banks is calculated based on information contained in the publicly available  
  company reports of the following (TSX Trading Symbols): BMO, BNS, CM, NA, RY and TD.

Dave Thomson (L), VP, Credit Risk Management, 
and Joe Matties (R), AVP, Real Estate Lending, 
regularly work together to help CWB clients 
get the business financing they need.

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

13

 
Canadian Western Bank

cwbank.com • theworkingbank.ca

CWB Branch Locations

Grande Prairie

Prince George

St. Albert
Edmonton (5)

Vancouver (4)

Kamloops

Kelowna(2)

Sherwood Park

Leduc

Red Deer

Calgary (5)

Courtenay

Nanaimo

Coquitlam
Langley

Abbotsford

Surrey (2)

Cranbrook

Medicine Hat

Lethbridge

Richmond
Victoria

Saskatoon (2)

Yorkton

Regina

Winnipeg

Branch locations

New full-service branch in Richmond, BC

Canadian Western Financial

canadianwesternfinancial.com

Along with earning and saving, smart investing 
is crucial to our clients’ financial well-being. 
Canadian Western Financial (CWF) is CWB Group’s 
mutual fund dealer company that helps clients 
get the most out of their investments. CWF 
representatives work across CWB’s branch 
network to offer clients sound investment advice 
and access to mutual fund products from more 
than 20 well-known third-party fund companies. 
Our representatives do not work on commission 
and always focus on recommending investments 

that are specifically suited to each individual 
client. Over the past year, the book value of 
mutual funds held by CWF clients increased 
16 per cent. We also teamed up with Canadian 
Western Trust to deliver what we believe is 
one of the most unique and efficient Group 
Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSPs) in 
the marketplace. The plan is designed to meet 
the needs of small- and medium-sized employers 
and represents an excellent service option for 
many of CWB Group’s key business clients.

14

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

Hilmar Lemke, AVP, Asset Management
Canadian Western Financial

Canadian Direct Financial

canadiandirectfinancial.com

“Our products and
great service are 
available to people 
any time, from 
anywhere.”

New products and continued growth
CDF’s no-nonsense products and outstanding 
service gives Canadians A better way to save®.  
This past year, we achieved deposit growth 
of 15 per cent and a 58 per cent increase in 
the number of clients. We also expanded our 
product offerings to include the KeyFlex® 
Mortgage Line, an easy-to-use line of credit that 
allows people flexibility to meet their changing 
borrowing needs using the equity in their home. 
With KeyFlex®, homeowners can borrow up to 
80 per cent of the value of their home. Once 
approved, clients can decide when, if and how 
they want to use it – whether it’s consolidating 
debt, renovating their home or helping their 
kids through post-secondary education. 

As we move ahead, we’re working to support 
CWB Group’s shared vision by offering the 
types of competitive products that clients 
want and need. Our goal is to diversify and 
grow deposits across Canada by building 
on our reputation for offering competitive 
products and exceptional service.

CWB now has 40 branches in communities across 
Western Canada; however, we know not everyone 
has a branch close to home. Canadian Direct 
Financial (CDF) was created to make it easier for 
people to take advantage of our competitive 
interest rates, sensible products and exceptional 
service from wherever they live. 

User-friendly website 
Through canadiandirectfinancial.com, CDF 
serves clients in every province and territory 
across Canada, with the exception of Quebec. 
“We are the Internet-banking division of CWB; 
however, we still have a dedicated customer 
service team that answers questions and offers 
clients personalized advice over the telephone. 
And because we’re Internet-based, CDF is 
accessible any time, from anywhere,” notes 
Peter Morrison, Vice President of Marketing 
and Product Development with CWB. “This 
means people can bank where and when they 
want, and get many of the same great types of 
products they would get in one of our branches.”

In addition to offering chequing accounts, savings 
accounts and GICs with highly competitive rates, 
CDF also offers RRSPs and a Tax-Free Savings 
Account (TFSA) as part of our KeyReach® suite 
of products. 

Client & Deposit Growth (CDF)

)
s
n
o

i
l
l
i

m
$

(
s
t
i
s
o
p
e
D

$140

120

100

80

60

40

20

2,100

1,800

1,500

1,200

900

600

300

N
u
m
b
e
r
o
f
C

l
i

e
n
t
s

Lawrence Lorimer, Manager
Canadian Direct Financial

2008

2009

2010

2011

Deposits (left-scale)

Number of Clients (right-scale)

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

15

 
 
 
 
“Our goal is to be
Canada’s premier 
provider of equipment 
lease financing 
solutions.”

National Leasing

nationalleasing.com

Whether a company is just starting out or is 
ready to reach the next stage of its evolution, 
having the right equipment is imperative for 
them to get to where they want to be. National 
Leasing is a leader in commercial equipment 
financing for a variety of industries, and 
offers lease financing solutions for deals that 
range anywhere from $5,000 to $2 million. In 
addition to general commercial leasing, we also 
specialize in medical and dental, golf and turf, 
and agricultural equipment financing. With the 
contributions of National Leasing, CWB Group 
has a presence in every province across Canada.

Our proprietary FastCredit™ scoring software 
allows us to make fair, accurate decisions fast – 
in fact, we guarantee a credit decision on 
applications up to $50,000 within four hours 
of receiving the necessary documentation. 
Headquartered in Winnipeg, Manitoba, with 
representation across Canada, we have more 
than 260 employees who understand the leasing 
business. We are also the only leasing company in 
Canada to be ISO 9001:2008 certified, a standard 
that helps us consistently meet or exceed client 
expectations while improving our processes 
and business practices. Not surprising, many 
of National Leasing’s standards for service and 
quality mirror the vision and principles that 
guide the entire CWB Group.

The first full year
“During our first full year as part of CWB Group,
we worked to share resources and implement 
cross-partnering wherever possible, but we only 
integrated where it made sense,” notes Nick 
Logan, President and CEO of National Leasing. The 
increased capital and improved funding sources 
provided by the Bank have added to our competitive 
advantages and allowed us to further expand our 
reach across different industries. We nearly doubled 
our annual earnings since 2009, based on both 
improved financing margins and a record volume of 
applications in 2011. Our leases under management 
reached almost $800 million, and our strategic plan 
is focused on surpassing the $1 billion milestone in 
the foreseeable future. National Leasing’s success has 
made strong contributions to CWB Group’s financial 
performance, diversification and future growth 
profile. Our success in cross-partnering with other 
CWB Group companies has also made it easier for 
certain clients to access a broader array of financial 
services options. 

As we look forward, our goal is to build on National 
Leasing’s reputation as Canada’s premier provider 
of equipment lease financing solutions.  We expect 
to achieve solid organic growth across all areas 
of our business and will continue to investigate 
opportunities to acquire lease portfolios from our 
competitors.  Most important, we will continue 
to deliver the exceptional level of service and 
customized solutions that have made us 
successful throughout our history. 

Provincial Breakdown of Leases (October 31, 2011)

British Columbia

Saskatchewan

Ontario

Atlantic provinces 
and other

9%

19%

14%

7%

31%

13%

7%

Alberta

Manitoba

Quebec

Candice Dowhaniuk, Account Manager
National Leasing 

16

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

Canadian Western Trust

cwt.ca

“We always offer a fast
response, meticulous 
attention to detail, and 
a flexible, solutions-
oriented approach.”

Canadian Western Trust (CWT) provides 
exceptional service and expertise on trustee 
and custodial solutions for financial advisors, 
corporations and individuals across Canada. 
We’ve been a leader in trust services since 
1987 and currently operate two business units: 
Individual Retirement and Investment Services 
(IRIS) and Corporate and Group Services (CGS). 
Although each unit has a different focus, 
both offer the same high level of service and 
customized client solutions that are synonymous 
with CWB Group.

IRIS and CGS
IRIS focuses on providing a full range of 
trustee, custody and record-keeping services 
for independent financial advisors, mortgage 
brokers, individuals and group RRSP plans. 
Revenues within IRIS are largely driven by fee 
income earned from the various account and 
administrative services we provide. IRIS has more 
than 47,000 accounts and holds over $3.3 billion 
of assets under administration.

CGS provides similar trustee, custody and 
record-keeping services to pension plans, 
custody operations and investment managers. 
In addition, we offer high-end tax deferred 
products for small business owners and senior 
executives of large corporations. Revenues 
within CGS are comprised of both fee income 
and deposit interest income. CGS has over 690 
direct clients, representing approximately 
150,000 employees and individuals, and more 
than $3.3 billion of assets under administration.

CWT Assets Under Administration ($ billions)

Continued growth
“In a time of change, uncertainty and 
consolidation within our chosen trust services 
markets, CWT continues to be a consistent and 
stable partner that our clients can depend on 
for the long term,” notes Matt Colpitts, Vice 
President and General Manager of CWT. 
“For us, consistency means continually building 
on our reputation of providing great service 
and innovative products that our clients 
deserve.” Our employees are highly engaged 
and committed to CWT’s Service you can 
trust® philosophy. This philosophy makes sure 
we always offer a fast response, meticulous 
attention to detail, and a flexible, solutions-
oriented approach. 

We believe training, education and ongoing 
investment in our people puts us in the best 
position to continually grow and exceed our 
clients’ expectations. We have also devoted 
considerable time and effort to further 
integrate and improve our systems. These 
technology improvements allow us to enhance 
our offerings for existing clients while also 
building our future service capacity. 

With offices in Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton 
and Toronto, CWT is poised to expand our 
reach and further diversify CWB Group’s 
operations. We are also committed to help 
existing CWB Group clients understand the 
full scope of retirement, custodial and trustee 
services that are available to them. 

$7
6
5
4
3
2
1

Ryan Green, Corporate Trust Administrator
Canadian Western Trust

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

17

“Mortgage brokers
know that when they 
contact us, we’ll answer 
their questions quickly 
and respond to their 
applications promptly.”

Optimum Mortgage

optimummortgage.ca

When it comes to owning a home, finding 
the right mortgage often requires people 
who are willing to take the extra time to 
understand the specific circumstances of 
each individual client. Optimum Mortgage, 
a division of CWT, works with a team of 
more than 6,500 mortgage brokers located 
across Western Canada and select regions 
of southern Ontario. We offer our brokers a 
variety of financial solutions for their clients, 
including alternative mortgages, traditional 
mortgages, and high-ratio insured mortgages. 

We know from experience that small business 
owners and other individuals who are self-
employed often have challenges confirming 
their income. We also know there are many 
people who fall just outside the specific 
lending guidelines of more traditional 
mortgage providers. Our alternative (Alt-A) 
mortgage offerings were created specifically 
to meet the needs of these types of clients. 

A more sensible approach 
Optimum’s Sensible Lending® approach 
goes well beyond just credit scores and debt 
ratios. It allows us to carefully review every 
potential deal and make common-sense 
credit decisions based on the merits of each 
application. Among other things, we consider 
the value of the property, the amount of the 
down payment and the borrower’s job or 
other sources of income. We then use this 
information to make responsible lending 
decisions that help mortgage brokers offer 
their clients preferred mortgage options.

We take the same sensible approach in 
partnering with our network of mortgage 
brokers, offering personalized service and 
prompt, efficient responses to all applications. 
“Our brokers know that when they contact 
us, we’ll answer their questions quickly and 
respond to their applications promptly – 
usually within 24 hours,” states Les Shore, Vice 
President and Manager of Optimum Mortgage. 
“And they know that whenever they call, 
they’ll talk directly to one of our more than 
40 employees – without ever having to make 
their way through a maze of voice mail.” 

Our Sensible Lending® philosophy helped 
many Canadian homebuyers throughout 
2011. Our total loans grew 17 per cent to reach 
$934 million at year end.  Optimum‘s current 
portfolio is comprised of more than 3,700 
mortgages on individual properties located 
throughout our key markets. 

As we move into 2012 and beyond, we’ll 
continue to deliver the products and services 
mortgage brokers need for their clients. We’re 
also looking to further expand our Canadian 
broker network and are evaluating additional 
opportunities to provide mortgages directly 
to individuals via the Internet. 

Total Optimum Mortgage Loans ($ millions)

934

796

561

450

380

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

Mitch Estrada, Manager, 
Mortgage Administration 
Optimum Mortgage

18

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

Valiant Trust

valianttrust.com

“Corporations and
organizations choose 
us, and stay with 
us, because they 
know we can meet 
their needs.”

Corporate clients who require responsive and 
reliable services can count on Valiant Trust; we have 
A reputation for getting things done®. With offices 
in Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton and Toronto, 
we are a specialty trust services provider and 
federal deposit-taking institution that is focused 
on Canadian operations. We mainly provide trust 
services in the areas of stock transfer, corporate 
trust, escrow, and employee plan services to 
public and private corporations. Our stock transfer 
service has more than 152,000 active registered 
holders with a combined number of shares issued 
and outstanding of over $19 billion. We process 
more than 1,600 security registration transfers per 
month and, over the past six years, have distributed 
in excess of $21 billion in cash entitlements to 
security holders on behalf of our clients.

“We provide exceptional service and help our clients 
communicate clearly with their security holders and 
regulatory bodies. Corporations and organizations 
choose us, and stay with us, because they know 
we can meet their needs,” says Adrian Baker, Chief 
Operating Officer of Trust Services and President of 
Valiant Trust. We take pride in our attention to detail 
and always act fast when clients make a request. 
We are responsive to questions and offer expert, 
professional advice. To maximize convenience 
for our clients, we’ve also created VWeb, an 
Internet-based service that provides secure, 
anytime access to essential company reports.

Number of Client Appointments

Continued growth and expansion
Our goal is to continually expand our market 
presence by building on our reputation and 
earning business away from our key competitors. 
In 2011, we served more than 300 companies 
through 560-plus client appointments. We also 
realized significant successes from our targeted 
business development activities in Toronto, 
which represents a key market for Valiant’s 
future growth.

Another highlight was Valiant’s offering of GICs 
through CWB branches after obtaining a licence 
from the Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation 
(CDIC). Valiant’s CDIC licence complements the 
deposit insurance already available through the 
Bank and CWT, and provides CWB Group with the 
capacity to offer clients an additional channel for 
insured deposits. Now that CWB, CWT and Valiant 
are each federal deposit-taking institutions, 
clients can “stack” CDIC insurance across multiple 
holdings. Adding this source of insured deposits 
to Valiant’s balance sheet also allows us to better 
deploy our capital and increase the earnings 
potential for CWB Group. 

Number of Clients

319

2011

567

276

2010

496

468

440

433

Julia Yan, Director,
Business Development
Valiant Trust

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

The number of client appointments is a primary driver of 
revenues and confirms Valiant’s increased market presence.

254

2009

246

2008

233

2007

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

19

“We were built on 
the promise of delivering 
unparalleled customer 
service in an industry 
where service is 
often overlooked.”

Canadian Direct Insurance

canadiandirect.com

Canadian Direct Insurance (Canadian Direct) 
offers customers in BC and Alberta more 
ways to save on their auto, home and travel 
insurance. By offering insurance products 
directly via the telephone and Internet, 
we lower costs for our customers. 

We make it easy for customers to get quotes, 
ask questions, compare rates and secure the 
auto, home and travel insurance coverage 
they need – all without leaving the comfort of 
their home. In BC, customers can also choose 
to talk face-to-face with representatives from 
our select channel of auto insurance brokers. 

Committed to customer satisfaction
Canadian Direct was built on the promise of 
delivering unparalleled customer service in 
an industry where service is often overlooked. 
This means we always work hard to meet and 
exceed expectations – we return calls promptly, 
answer questions clearly and crunch numbers 
with precision. Our customer satisfaction rates 
tell us we’re doing things right. 

We are very proud to be ranked “Highest in 
Customer Satisfaction among Auto Insurers in 
Western Canada” by J.D. Power and Associates* 
in their 2011 Canadian Auto Insurance Study SM. 
The study measures customer satisfaction across 
five factors: interaction; price; policy offerings; 
billing and payment; and claims. 

Canadian Direct’s current position as one of 
the fastest growing insurance companies in 
Western Canada didn’t happen by chance, 
and we believe the positive feedback from 
our customers tells a good part of our story. 
“We think it speaks volumes about our service 
that so much of our new business is built on 
existing clients referring their friends and family 
to us,” explains Brian Young, President and CEO 
of Canadian Direct. “People don’t make those 
recommendations unless they’re happy with 
the service and the rates they’re getting.”

During 2011, Canadian Direct surpassed 
190,000 of policies outstanding by attracting 
clients through each of our three distribution 
channels. In addition to customer growth, 
strong net insurance revenues were realized 
by maintaining our disciplined insurance 
underwriting and efficient claims management 
processes. Our claims ratio, which measures 
claims expense as a percentage of revenue 
earned from premiums, was 64 per cent, and 
our expense ratio, which measures operating 
costs as a percentage of revenue earned from 
premiums, was 29 per cent. As we move into 
2012 and beyond, we plan to achieve continued 
growth and profitability by offering affordable 
and relevant insurance products that meet the 
needs of our customers. 

Canadian Direct Highlights

2007 

2008 

2009 

2010 

2011

Policies outstanding 

164,263 

168,071 

175,662 

185,167 

190,994

Gross written premiums ($ millions) 

$104.8 

$107.1 

$116.8 

$124.5 

$129.7

*Canadian Direct Insurance received the highest numerical score among auto insurance providers in Western Canada in the proprietary

J.D. Power and Associates 2011 Canadian Auto Insurance Customer Satisfaction StudySM. Study based on 11,286 total responses measuring 
11 providers in Western Canada (AB, BC, MB, SK) and measures consumer satisfaction with auto insurance providers. Proprietary study 
results are based on experiences and perceptions of consumers surveyed in July-August 2011. Your experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com  

20

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

Suzanne Caldwell,
Senior Operations Assistant
Canadian Direct Insurance

 
Adroit Investment Management

adroitinvestments.ca

“Clients know they
can count on us to 
deliver sound decisions 
and solid advice.”

Knowing where to invest and how to do it right 
can be intimidating for many people. Adroit 
Investment Management (Adroit) is an investment 
counselling firm helping clients understand, build 
and maintain an investment portfolio that 
is right for them. 

Our experienced investment professionals 
work directly with individuals, corporations 
and institutional clients (including non-profit 
organizations, colleges, foundations and 
endowment funds) to maintain an investment 
portfolio that meets their specific goals. We 
meet face-to-face with clients at the outset of 
any relationship to establish detailed Investment 
Policy Guidelines – a set of rules that spells out 
their long-term objectives and tolerance for risk. 
We then use this information to make decisions 
and build a diversified investment portfolio best 
suited for their unique interests. We also maintain 
regular communication with our existing clients 
to ensure the Investment Policy Guidelines 
appropriately reflect their current position. 

Clients know they can count on us to deliver 
sound decisions and solid advice. They also 
know we adhere to the highest ethical standards 
and will always maintain our conservative 

and consistent principles to achieve long-term 
investment growth. “We take our jobs, and the 
trust clients place in us, very seriously,” explains 
David Schuster, President and CEO of Adroit. 
“Our investment philosophy and our reputation 
are based on integrity, trust and discipline – 
these basic principles guide everything we 
do on behalf of our clients.”

Strong investment performance
Our conservative growth principles, exceptional 
service and customized client solutions 
have resulted in strong relative investment 
performance, even in the midst of ongoing 
volatility in global markets. Throughout 
2011, we worked to adjust portfolios where 
required to ensure we maintained an 
optimal balance between risk and potential 
reward. Currently, our client assets under 
management are approaching $1 billion. 

Our strategies for continued growth are based 
on helping clients achieve their investment goals 
while we work to expand our geographic reach. 
We devoted considerable time over the past year 
to enhance our business development strategy, 
which includes identifying more ways to help 
existing CWB clients across Western Canada. 

Cumulative Value of $100 Invested on October 31, 1996

$450

400

350

300

250

200

150

100

Maria Holowinsky,
Executive Vice President
Adroit Investment Management

‘96 ‘97 ‘98 ‘99 ‘00 ‘01 ‘02 ‘03

‘04 ‘05 ‘06

‘07 ‘08

‘09 ‘10 ‘11

Adroit Canadian Equity Portfolio

S&P/TSX Composite Index

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

21

 
Corporate Social Responsibility

cwbankgroup.com/csr

Although Corporate Social Responsibility 
(CSR) is now an industry standard, supporting 
our people, giving back to our communities, 
and creating sustainable processes and 
practices have been fundamental parts of our 
business from day one. 

In the following pages, you’ll find information 
about our economic impact, how we make our 
products and services more accessible, our 
environmental efforts, and how we support 
our employees in reaching their professional 
and personal potential. If you’d like to know 
more about our CSR activities, please visit 
cwbankgroup.com/csr. 

22

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

Left to Right: Angela Saveraux (Manager, Community Investment), Janessa Donald (Sales & Service 
Representative), Russ Dalgetty (AVP, Commercial Banking), Andy Chen (Senior Internal Auditor & Green 
Team Member) and Pam Choi (Employee Relations Specialist)

Economic ImpactMarketplaceCommunityEnvironmentPeopleCWB Group’s shared vision of what matters and what’s possible has always included our belief in the importance of being a good corporate citizen. It’s no surprise the largest publicly traded bank 
headquartered in Western Canada contributes 
to the economic health of western Canadian 
communities. CWB Group serves thousands 
of businesses each year, providing them with 
the financial products they need to grow their 
revenues and expand their opportunities. 
From loans and leases to other complementary 
financial services, we help business people do 
what they do best. In turn, they can strengthen 
the economy by investing in their companies and 
creating more jobs. At the same time, we work 
with personal clients to help them meet their 
financial goals, including offering the mortgage, 
insurance and wealth management services 
they need. Total loans outstanding to CWB 
Group clients grew by more than $1.7 billion in 
2011. We created value for our shareholders, as 
demonstrated by our 2011 return on common 
shareholders’ equity of 15.6 per cent. We also 
paid more than $54 million of dividends to CWB 
common and preferred shareholders.

Our spending
With more than 1,900 employees working in 
50 different communities, the salaries and 
benefits earned by our people have a direct and 

measurable economic impact. Our employees 
reinvest their income in the communities 
where they live, shop, dine, play and pay 
taxes. In total, CWB Group invested more 
than $141 million in employee salaries and 
benefits in 2011. We also paid more than 
$64 million in government taxes, which 
included approximately $42 million in federal 
income taxes and more than $22 million 
in provincial income and capital taxes. 

Our business practices and growth also create 
economic activity. In 2011 alone, we invested 
approximately $18 million in office leasing and 
maintenance. This past year, we opened a 
new branch in Richmond, BC and expanded 
our branch in Medicine Hat, Alberta to offer 
full-service banking. These projects, among 
many others, created activity that crossed 
numerous economic sectors and utilized 
dozens of local businesses. Each year, CWB 
Group spends more than $4 million on office 
supplies and travel costs. Add it all together – 
net new loans, dividends, compensation, 
taxes, and general corporate spending - and 
CWB Group injected more than $2 billion into 
businesses and the economy last year alone.

Total Federal and Provincial Income and Capital Taxes Paid ($ millions)

$64,433

$50,502

$46,180

$46,130

$42,453

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

23

Economic ImpactCWB Group injected more than $2 billion into businesses and the economy last year alone. Corporate Social Responsibility

cwbankgroup.com/csr

We’ve always believed everyone deserves the 
chance to benefit from the products and services 
we offer – which includes the many Canadians 
living with low incomes. That’s why we offer all  
our clients a flexible, low-cost chequing account 
for as little as $4/month. We waive monthly 
account fees for youth under 18 and students 
pursuing post-secondary studies. Our Gold Leaf 
Plus® account waives fees for our clients aged 57 
or older. We help senior citizens by offering them 
an option to receive monthly interest payments 
on certain types of investments, as well as 
reduced fees on safety deposit box rentals.

Removing barriers
We’ve made sure all our facilities are accessible 
to people with varying levels of mobility by 
making every branch wheelchair friendly and 
offering sit-down banking alternatives. And 
we’ve created more services in banking, trust 
and insurance that are accessible online 
and/or over the telephone to give our clients 
the flexibility to better manage their financial 
needs from the comfort of their home or office. 

We know that new Canadians often struggle to 
receive the service and support they need, which 
can sometimes be a result of language barriers. 
The diversity and experience of our employees 
allows us to offer services in multiple languages. 
This makes it easier for clients to ask questions 
and share important information without fear of 
being misunderstood. It also creates a banking 
experience that is welcoming for everyone.

Our new branch in Richmond, BC is a great 
example of our commitment to offer financial 
services to culturally diverse clients. The branch 
is fully multilingual and can serve clients in 
both English and Chinese languages. 

“Everyone deserves
the chance to benefit 
from the products 
and services we offer.”

CWB’s new branch in Richmond, BC is one of our locations 
that provides financial services in multiple languages.

24

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

Michael Yeung,
AVP and Branch Manager
Richmond Branch

Marketplace“Our employees
volunteer countless 
hours giving back 
to charities and 
other worthwhile 
organizations.”

Giving back to the communities where we live 
and work has always been part of our vision 
to be a good corporate citizen. We invested 
approximately $1.6 million into our communities 
in 2011 through charitable donations and 
sponsorships that were mainly within our three 
target areas: health, wellness and caregiving; 
education; and community and civic services. 
The money was used to support dozens of 
community agencies, fundraising campaigns, 
charitable associations, scholarships, awards 
and programs throughout our key markets. 

Volunteering time and energy 
Our employees volunteer countless hours in their 
respective communities while also giving back to 
charitable and other worthwhile organizations. 
Just a few examples include Canadian Direct’s 
employees in Vancouver who support the Greater 
Vancouver Food Bank and BC Children’s Hospitals. 
In Winnipeg, National Leasing employees have built 
affordable homes for low income families through 
Habitat for Humanity. And in Calgary, employees 
from CWB have taken time out of their day to serve 
lunch at the Calgary Drop-In & Rehab Centre.

In recognition of the commitment our employees 
bring to volunteering, we created the Western 
Spirit program, which includes both our Employee 
Volunteer grant and Funds for Fundraisers grant. 
The Employee Volunteer program offers a $250 
grant to an employee’s charity of choice when 

they volunteer 50 hours or more of their own 
time within their community. The Funds for 
Fundraisers program matches the donations 
employees raise through various pledge-based 
charity events, dollar-for-dollar, to a maximum 
of $250 per individual and $1,500 per team. 
Over the past two years, we’ve donated more 
than $60,000 through the Western Spirit 
program, and we saw an 83 per cent increase 
in the number of grants awarded in 2011.

Encouraging community investment
Based on an idea submitted by one of our 
employees, we’ve created a way for our 
clients to invest in their communities while 
also strengthening their own financial future. 
During the months of September and October, 
for every dollar our clients invest in The Greater 
Interest GIC ®, CWB makes a donation of 1/8 per 
cent  to the local Big Brothers Big Sisters agency 
in the community where the deposits are 
raised. Since 2008, CWB has donated more than 
$840,000 to support mentorship opportunities 
for Canada’s youth. In 2010, CDF introduced a 
similar product – the KeyGiving GIC ® – which 
allows clients to invest in GICs online, with 
donations directed to the national office of Big 
Brothers Big Sisters. To increase the profile of 
CWB Group’s work in the community, we now 
feature related information, updates and photos 
on the CWB Group In the Community Facebook 
page (facebook.com/CWBcommunity). 

Employee Volunteer Grants

Funds for Fundraisers Grants

$28,343

57 grants awarded

33 grants awarded

$9,465

Carolyn Graham, Senior VP and Chief 
Accountant, received an Employee 
Volunteer Grant for her volunteer 
work with Habitat for Humanity.

2010

2011

2010

2011

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

25

CommunityCorporate Social Responsibility

cwbankgroup.com/csr

The recent conversion of the data centre 
at our corporate office is an excellent example 
of the impact sustainable choices can make. 
Our new data centre utilizes server virtualization 
technology to store more data in less space. 
This change substantially lowered cooling and 
electrical costs, leading to estimated annual 
energy savings of 1,884,513 kWh.

We encourage CWB Group employees to explore 
environmental initiatives and projects at work 
and in their communities. In recent years, our 
employees have established  environmental 
teams, like the CWB Green Team or Canadian 
Direct’s EcoSquad, that focus on finding 
innovative ways to reduce our carbon footprint. 
In addition, employees have spearheaded office 
recycling programs, transitioned lunchrooms 
to ceramic cups and stainless steel cutlery, and 
provided all staff with monthly “Green Tips” 
through our Intranets.

Our commitment to the environment also 
guides our lending decisions. Our lending 
practices require us to perform due diligence 
to help identify the potential risks and 
environmental impacts of a client’s business 
operations. If our process identifies any material 
risks, we encourage clients to revise their plans 
to reduce these risks. In instances where the 
issue can’t be resolved to our satisfaction, 
we’ll deny the application.

290

(Million BTU’S)

118

(Water Saved gals.) 

Gases Prevented
(lbs. Co2 Equiv.)

29,435

(Landfill Reduced lbs.)

8,414

132,736

42 Tons

(1)Eco audit information is based on use of the  
  following products: 11,000 sheets of 26 x 40  
  Lenza 92lb Cover 368M and 180,000 sheets of   
  23 x 35 Lenza 60lb Text 102M. Data research  
  provided by environmentaldefence.org

The new data centre at CWB Group’s corporate office 
stores more data in less space, which saves money 
and reduces our impact on the environment.

26

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

EnvironmentEnvironmental responsibility is more than good business – it’s common sense. After all, we live, play and raise our families in the communities where we work and support economic growth. And whether it’s as good corporate citizens or as responsible individuals, we all have a vested interest in creating a sustainable future. CWB Group takes our commitment to environmental responsibility seriously, both inour actions as a successful financial services organization and as a facilitator and driver ofeconomic growth. From using online statements, tools and processes to reduce our paper usage, to incorporating environmentally friendly design elements into our branches, we’re making sustainability a part of the way we do business.This Annual Report uses FSC certified paper that comes from well-managed forests. The paper used for the report contains 100% Post Consumer Recycled fiber instead of virgin paper and is produced using wind power. As a result, the following savings to our natural resources were realized:(1)Eco AuditTrees SavedEnergy Not Consumed WastewaterWood Saved (lbs.)Net Greenhouse Solid Waste “Our employees 
not only share our 
vision of what a good 
corporate citizen 
should be – they 
helped shape it.”

Rejean Roberge of Optimum Mortgage 
was the first employee CWB Group 
hired through social media networks, 
which was a new effort by our human 
resources team this year.

Much of what we’ve accomplished over the past 
27 years is because of the talent, dedication and 
enthusiasm our employees bring to their work. 
They not only share our vision of what a good 
corporate citizen should be – they helped shape it. 

We hire people who share our values, our attitude 
and our commitment to delivering exceptional 
service. And once they’re part of our team, 
we reward them with competitive salaries, 
outstanding benefits, and opportunities to 
grow and advance in their careers. We also offer 
initiatives like our CWBalance® program to promote 
a healthy work/life balance, and our Employee 
Share Purchase Plan (ESPP) that encourages 
employees to become CWB shareholders. 
Today, more than 94 per cent of our employees 
are CWB shareholders through the ESPP.

It’s an approach that has helped us build a 
dynamic, loyal team that is invested in our 
success. It’s also allowed us to continue 
to attract the best and the brightest. This 
past year, the number of full- and part-time 
employees increased by 111 people, bringing 
our total number of employees to 1,939. 

Reaching potential employees
Although many of our new employees come to 
us through traditional hiring practices, a growing 
number come through our Employee Referral 
Incentive Program. The program, which offers 
employees a monetary payment for referrals that 
result in a successful hire, is based on the idea that 
the people who work here know exactly what 
we’re looking for in new employees. They can 
also vouch for what we have to offer. In 2011, we 
received 308 referrals, which resulted in 125 hires. 
Over the past 10 years, we’ve hired a total of 757 
new employees through this program. 

This past year, for the first time ever, we began 
using social media platforms such as Twitter and 
LinkedIn as a way to reach potential employees. 
We received positive responses on these initiatives 
and were pleased to make our first new hire based 
on a social media referral. We’re also encouraging 
employees to begin using social media as a way 
to connect with colleagues and clients, conduct 
research and share information on CWB Group’s 
products and services.

Encouraging excellence
It’s because we recognize how valuable our 
employees are that we’ve created training 
programs that encourage them to set and 
reach new goals. Two years ago, we launched 
the CWB Learning Centre, an internal website 
dedicated to providing management and 
leadership training for CWB Group employees. 
We also pay up to 100 per cent of tuition and 
other related costs for approved programs and 
courses offered by external sources, and will 
cover the cost of relevant professional dues. In 
total, we spent more than $1.7 million on training 
and development for our employees in 2011. 

We devote time and resources to ask our 
employees what matters most to them when 
it comes to their compensation and benefits. 
Focus groups were held in Vancouver, Calgary 
and Edmonton this past year to gather input 
and ideas about our long-term compensation 
plan. Many of the ideas that come out of these 
focus groups are now being incorporated 
into our compensation planning process. 

Our commitment to creating a rewarding 
working environment was recognized again 
in 2011 when we were named one of the 
50 Best Employers in Canada for the sixth year 
in a row. We’re both humbled and grateful for 
the award, which lets us know our employees 
appreciate us as much as we appreciate them.

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

27

PeopleCorporate Governance

cwbankgroup.com/investor_relations/corporate_governance

Requirements and best practices
The Board regularly reviews CWB Group’s 
governance practices to ensure adherence to 
all legal and other regulatory requirements, 
including those of the Office of the Superintendent 
of Financial Institutions, the Canadian Securities 
Administrators and the Toronto Stock Exchange. 
The Board also supplements corporate governance 
requirements by evaluating and, where appropriate, 
implementing corporate governance practices 
advanced by groups that represent the interests 
of shareholders and other stakeholders.

“It’s important to note
the objective is not 
to eliminate risk. Risk 
is the business we’re 
in. The objective is 
to make sure it is 
managed prudently.”
Allan Jackson
Board Chair
Canadian Western Bank

Clearly defined roles
CWB Group’s corporate governance framework 
is supported by clearly defined mandates for 
the Board and each of the Board Committees. In 
addition, the Board has adopted written mandates 
for the Chair of the Board and the Chairs of Board 
Committees. These mandates, which the Board 
reviews annually, outline areas of responsibility 
and provide for accountability at the Board level.

Left to Right: Robert Phillips, Gerald McGavin, Wendy Leaney (seated), Larry Pollock, Arnold Shell, Howard Pechet, Robert Manning, 
Allan Jackson, Linda Hohol, Raymond Protti, H. Sanford Riley, Alan Rowe, Albrecht Bellstedt (seated) and Ian Reid

28

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

CWB’s Board of Directors (the Board) is responsible for developing and monitoring CWB Group’s governance structure. The Board’s objective is to effectively oversee operations for the benefit of customers, employees, shareholders and other stakeholders.The Board The Board is comprised of fourteen business and community leaders whose broad experience, individually and collectively, is invaluable in developing the strategic direction of CWB Group and ensuring appropriate levels of accountability are maintained. Thirteen of the fourteen directors are independent. Mr. Pollock, CWB’s President and Chief Executive Officer, is the only non-independent director. It is a regulatory requirement that the President and Chief Executive Officer sit on the Board.Board of Directors
•	 Albrecht	W.	A.	Bellstedt,	Q.C., 
  President, A.W.A. Bellstedt Professional    
  Corporation, Canmore, Alberta
•  Linda M.O. Hohol, Corporate Director,
  Calgary, Alberta
•  Allan	W.	Jackson (Chairman), 
  President & Chief Executive Officer, 
  ARCI Ltd., Calgary, Alberta
•  Wendy	A.	Leaney, President,
  Wyoming Associates Ltd., 
  Toronto, Ontario
•  Robert	A.	Manning, President,
  Cathton Investments Ltd., 
  Edmonton, Alberta
•  Gerald	A.B.	McGavin,	C.M.,	O.B.C.,	FCA,   
  President, McGavin Properties Ltd.,  
  Vancouver, British Columbia
•	 Howard	E.	Pechet, President,
  Mayfield Consulting Inc., 
  Rancho Mirage, California, USA
•  Robert	L.	Phillips,	Q.C., President, 
  R.L. Phillips Investments Inc., 
  Vancouver, British Columbia
•  Larry M. Pollock, President 
  & Chief Executive Officer,
  Canadian Western Bank, 
  Edmonton, Alberta
•  Raymond	J.	Protti,	ICD.D, Corporate  
  Director, Victoria, British Columbia
•	 Ian	M.	Reid, Corporate Director,  
  Edmonton, Alberta
•  H. Sanford Riley, C.M., President 
  & Chief Executive Officer, Richardson  
  Financial Group Limited, Winnipeg,  
  Manitoba
•  Alan	M.	Rowe,	CA, Partner, Crown  
  Realty Partners, Toronto, Ontario
•  Arnold	J.	Shell, President, Arnold J. Shell   
  Consulting Inc., Toronto, Ontario

Directors Emeritus
•  Jack C. Donald
•  John Goldberg
•  Jordan L. Golding
•  Arthur G. Hiller
•  Peter M.S. Longcroft
•  Alma M. McConnell-Kingston
•  Dr. Maurice W. Nicholson
•  Dr. Maurice M. Pechet

The Corporate Governance section of the 
CWB Group website contains information on 
CWB Group’s corporate governance practices, 
including the mandate of the Board, the 
mandates of each of the Board Committees, 
the Personal and Business Conduct Policy for 
CWB Group’s officers and employees, and 
the Personal and Business Conduct Policy 
for directors.

A higher standard – CWB Group’s 
corporate governance initiatives 

Fiscal 2011
CWB adopts a recoupment or “clawback” policy 
whereby senior executive bonuses, option grants 
and restricted share grants may be clawed back.

Fiscal 2010
CWB adopts a “say-on-pay” resolution, allowing 
shareholders to express an opinion on CWB’s 
approach to executive compensation.

Fiscal 2009
CWB does away with “slate” voting, allowing 
shareholders to vote on individual directors.

Fostering an ethical culture
The Board approves all major strategy and 
policy recommendations for CWB Group and 
ensures that management maintains a culture 
of integrity throughout the organization. CWB 
Group has codes of conduct for all directors, 
officers and employees, and the Board monitors 
compliance with these codes. In addition, a 
whistleblower policy allows for the anonymous 
reporting of complaints and concerns.

Risk management
The Board plays an integral role in CWB Group’s 
enterprise risk framework and directly oversees 
risk management to ensure a comprehensive 
approach to risk.

CWB’s director and executive compensation 
policies are also designed with risk management 
in mind. Directors and senior officers are required 
to maintain a minimum level of share ownership 
to ensure their decisions align with the interests 
of shareholders. Executive compensation policies 
are linked to CWB Group’s performance and a 
recoupment or “clawback” policy discourages 
excessive risk taking.

For more information
The annual proxy circular contains information 
about each director, a detailed discussion of the 
responsibilities of the Board and each Board 
Committee, and a description of CWB’s corporate 
governance practices.

Overview of Corporate Governance Structure

Governance Committee

Human Resources 
Committee

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Loans Committee

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

29

 
 
 
 
 
 
Corporate Governance

cwbankgroup.com/investor_relations/corporate_governance

Board Committees
Audit Committee Members: 
Robert A. Manning (Chair), 
Wendy A. Leaney, Gerald A.B. McGavin, 
Robert L. Phillips, Raymond J. Protti, 
Ian Reid and Alan M. Rowe.

Responsibilities:
•  Oversees the integrity of the CWB

Group’s financial reporting, internal 
controls, disclosure controls and 
internal audit function.

•  Recommends the appointment of

the external auditors and oversees 
the whistleblower procedures.

Governance Committee Members: 
Albrecht W.A. Bellstedt (Chair), 
Linda M.O. Hohol, Allan W. Jackson, 
Wendy A. Leaney, Robert A. Manning, 
Raymond J. Protti and Arnold J. Shell.

Responsibilities:
•  Reviews and monitors corporate

governance trends and best practices.
•  Monitors procedures regarding related
party transactions, conflicts of interest, 
standards of business conduct, the 
handling of customer complaints, and 
recommends director compensation 
and director succession.

Loans Committee Members: 
Gerald A.B. McGavin (Chair), 
Linda M.O. Hohol, Allan W. Jackson, 
Wendy A. Leaney, Howard E. Pechet, 
Robert L. Phillips (alternate), Larry M. 
Pollock, Ian Reid, H. Sanford Riley 
and Alan M. Rowe.

Responsibilities:
•  Oversees the documentation,

measurement and management 
of credit risk.

•  Approves, declines or recommends
approval to the Board of all credit 
applications in excess of a 
specified limit.

Human Resources Committee 
Members: 
Alan M. Rowe (Chair), Albrecht W.A. 
Bellstedt, Allan W. Jackson, Robert A. 
Manning, Howard E. Pechet, Robert L. 
Phillips, H. Sanford Riley and 
Arnold J. Shell.

Responsibilities:
•  Approves executive compensation  
  and incentive compensation plans.
•  Oversees CEO performance

assessment and senior management 
succession.

Corporate governance highlights
•  The Board is led by a non-executive  
  chairman to ensure independent  

leadership.

•  13 of the 14 current directors 
  are independent.
•  Independent directors set aside time 
  at each Board and Board Committee  
  meeting for discussion without the  
  presence of management.
•  The Board and Board Committees each  
  have the power to retain independent   
  advisors, when they deem it necessary,  
to assist them in fulfilling their mandates.

•  Shareholders vote for individual  
  directors, not a slate. Directors who
  receive more “withhold” than “for” 
  votes are required to tender their  
  resignation for the Board’s consideration.
•  Director and executive officer  
  compensation is reviewed annually.  
  At the March 2011 annual shareholder   
  meeting, CWB Group’s approach to  
  executive compensation received the 
  support of more than 99 per cent 
  of votes cast by shareholders.
•  The Board prioritizes ongoing director 
  education by actively participating in  
  presentations by senior management   
  and outside experts.
•  The Board evaluates, in alternating years,
the effectiveness of each director and  
the Board as a whole through a written  
  assessment and feedback process. In    
  2011, the assessment and feedback  
  process was reviewed and enhanced.
•   CWB has established separate codes  
  of conduct for directors and employees.  
  All directors, officers and employees  
  must annually certify they have read,    
  understand and agree to abide by 

the applicable code.

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SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CWB Group Executive Committee

Larry Pollock 
President and
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Bill Addington, FCMA
Executive Vice President

Tracey Ball, FCA
Executive Vice President 
and Chief Financial Officer

Chris Fowler
Chief Operating Officer

Randy Garvey, CFA, FCMA
Executive Vice President

Brian Young
Executive Vice President

With CWB Group since 1990 
(22 years)

With CWB Group since 1986
(26 years)

With CWB Group since 1987
(25 years)

With CWB Group since 1991
(21 years)

With CWB Group since 2005
(7 years)

With CWB Group since 2004
(8 years)

Key	Areas	of	Responsibility
•  CWB Group Executive  
  Committee 

Positions Held at CWB Group
•  President & CEO

Key	Areas	of	Responsibility
•  Mergers and Acquisitions
•  Corporate Initiatives
•  Corporate Lending
•  Adroit Investment  
  Management

Positions Held Prior 
to CWB Group
•  Regional Vice
  President, Lloyds Bank  
  Canada (Calgary)
•  Regional Vice President,    
  Lloyds Bank Canada 

(Toronto)

•  Assistant General Manager 
  & Branch Manager,  
  Continental Bank 
  of Canada

Positions Held at CWB Group
•  Executive Vice President 
•  Senior Vice President,  
  Strategic & Corporate  
  Operations
•  Senior Vice President,  
  Treasury & Corporate  
  Development
•  Vice President, Treasury    
  & Administration
•  Vice President,  
  Commercial Credit

Positions Held Prior 
to CWB Group
•  Assistant Vice President,   
  Canadian Commercial Bank

Key	Areas	of	Responsibility
•  Finance and Tax
•  Investor Relations
•  Legal
•  Regulatory Compliance

Positions Held at CWB Group
•	 Executive Vice President 
  & Chief Financial Officer
•  Senior Vice President  
  & Chief Financial Officer
•  Vice President & Chief  
  Financial Officer
•  Vice President & Chief  
  Accountant
•  Assistant Vice President 
  & Chief Accountant
•  Manager, Finance &  
  Administration; Chief  
  Accountant

Positions Held Prior 
to CWB Group
•  Audit Manager, KPMG LLP

Key	Areas	of	Responsibility
•  Banking Operations
•  Credit Risk Management
•  Optimum Mortgage
•  Canadian Western 
  Financial

Positions Held at CWB Group
•  Chief Operating Officer
•  Executive Vice President
•  Senior Vice President, 
  Credit Risk Management
•  Vice President, Credit Risk  
  Management
•  Assistant Vice President,   
  Credit Risk Management 
•  Manager, Commercial  
  Banking

Positions Held Prior 
to CWB Group
•  Senior Account Manager, 
  Commercial Banking, 
  HSBC Bank Canada
•  Account Manager,  
  Corporate Banking 
  & Treasury Division, 
  Lloyds Bank Canada

Key	Areas	of	Responsibility
•  Treasury
•  Human Resources
•  Information Services
•  Internal Audit
•  Marketing & Product  
  Development
•  Corporate Administration
  & Operations

Positions Held at CWB Group
•  Executive Vice President
•  Senior Vice President,  
  Corporate Support

Positions Held Prior 
to CWB Group
•  Vice President & CFO, 
  Workers Compensation    
  Board, Alberta
•  Central Manager,  
  Corporate Services & CFO,
  the City of Edmonton
•  Director, Support Services,  
  the City of Regina
•  City Treasurer, the City  
  of Regina

Key	Areas	of	Responsibility
•  Canadian Direct 

Insurance 

•  Canadian Western Trust
•  Valiant Trust

Positions Held at CWB Group
•  Executive Vice President 
•  President & CEO, Canadian  
  Direct Insurance (acquired by  
  the Bank in 2004)

Positions Held Prior 
to CWB Group
•  President & CEO, Canadian  
  Direct Insurance
•  Chief Operating Officer,  
  Canadian Direct Insurance
•  Vice President, Commercial  
  Banking, HSBC Bank Canada
•  Assistant Vice President,  
  Commercial Banking, HSBC  
  Bank Canada
•  Senior Manager, Commercial  
  Banking, Lloyds Bank Canada

CWB Group Senior Officers

•  Glen Eastwood
  Senior Vice President and  
  Regional General Manager
•  Richard Gilpin
  Senior Vice President
  Credit Risk Management
•  Ricki Golick
  Senior Vice President 
  and Treasurer 
•  Carolyn	Graham,	FCA
  Senior Vice President 
  and Chief Accountant 

•  Michael Halliwell
  Senior Vice President and
  Regional General Manager
•  Gail	Harding,	Q.C.
  Senior Vice President,
  General Counsel and
  Corporate Secretary
•	 Darrell	Jones,	CMA
  Senior Vice President and
  Chief Information Officer
•  Uve Knaak
  Senior Vice President
  Human Resources

•  Gregory Sprung
  Senior Vice President and
  Regional General Manager
•  Jack	Wright
  Senior Vice President

Canadian Western Trust 
& Valiant Trust
•  Adrian	Baker
  Chief Operating Officer,
  Trust Services

Adroit Investment 
Management
•	 David	Schuster,	CFA
  President and 
  Chief Executive Officer

Ombudsman
•	 R.	Graham	Gilbert

National Leasing 
•  Nick Logan
  President and Chief 
  Executive Officer

Canadian Direct Insurance 
•  Brian Young
  President and 
  Chief Executive Officer

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

31

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Shareholder Information

Award of Excellence Recipients for 2011

32

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

CWB Group Corporate HeadquartersCanadian Western BankSuite 3000, Canadian Western Bank Place10303 Jasper AvenueEdmonton, Alberta  T5J 3X6Telephone: (780) 423.8888Fax: (780) 423.8897cwbankgroup.com Transfer Agent and RegistrarValiant Trust CompanySuite 310, 606 - 4th Street S.W.Calgary, Alberta   T2P 1T1Telephone: (866) 313.1872Fax: (403) 233.2857valianttrust.comStock Exchange ListingsThe Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX)Common Shares: CWBSeries 3 Preferred Shares: CWB.PR.AShareholder Administration Valiant Trust Company, with offices in Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver and Toronto, serves as Transfer Agent and Registrar for the common and preferred shares of CWB.  For dividend information, change in share registration or address, lost share certificates, tax forms or estate transfers, please write or call the Transfer Agent and Registrar, or email inquiries@valianttrust.com.Duplicated CommunicationsIf you receive, but do not require, more than one mailing for the same ownership, please contact the Transfer Agent and Registrar to combine the accounts. Direct Deposit ServicesShareholders may choose to have cash dividends paid on CWB common and preferred shares deposited directly into accounts held at their financial institution. To arrange direct deposit service, please contact the Transfer Agent and Registrar.  These are characteristics exemplified by the recipients of the Award of Excellence, an annual recognition for employees who, every day, live and breathe the qualities for which CWB Group is known.Exceeding the expectations of both clients and colleagues, these individuals consistently take initiative, innovate and inspire.Congratulations to the 2011 recipients of the Award of Excellence.•	Tracy Bond,	CWB,	Edmonton	•	Angela Chavez,	CWB,	Regina•	Maristela Cruz,	CDI,	Vancouver•	Adrienne Dickson,	Valiant	Trust,	Vancouver•	Helen Do,	CWB,	St.	Albert		•	Donna Glor,	CDI,	Edmonton		•	Tom Haarman,	CWB,	Edmonton•	Dustin Jones,	CWB,	Calgary•	Amanda Lemay,	CWB,	Edmonton•	Jenna McLean,	CWB,	Vancouver	•	Jennifer Voth,	CWB,	Abbotsford•	Peter Yeung,	CWB,	EdmontonHard Working - Enthusiastic - Responsive - Dedicated.Eligible Dividend Designation CWB designates all common and preferred share dividends paid to Canadian residents as “eligible dividends”, as defined in the Income Tax Act (Canada), unless otherwise noted.Dividend Reinvestment Plan CWB’s dividend reinvestment plan allows common and preferred shareholders to purchase additional common shares by reinvesting their cash dividend without incurring brokerage and commission fees. For information about participation in the plan, please contact the Transfer Agent and Registrar.   Investor RelationsShareholders, institutional investors or research analysts who would like additional financial information are asked to contact: Investor Relations DepartmentCanadian Western Bank Suite 3000, Canadian Western Bank Place10303 Jasper AvenueEdmonton, Alberta  T5J 3X6Telephone: (800) 836.1886Fax: (780) 969.8326Email: Investorrelations@cwbank.comMore comprehensive investor information - including supplemental financial reports, quarterly financial releases, corporate presentations, corporate fact sheets and frequently asked questions - is available under the Investor Relations section on our website at cwbankgroup.com.This 2011 Annual Report, along with our Annual Information Form, Notice of Annual Meeting of Shareholders and Proxy Circular, is available on our website. For additional printed copies of these reports, please contact the Investor Relations Department.Filings are available on the Canadian Securities Administrator’s website at www.sedar.com.2012 Annual MeetingThe annual meeting of the common shareholders of Canadian Western Bank will be held in Edmonton, Alberta, on March 8, 2012 at The Fairmont Hotel Macdonald (Empire  Ballroom) at 3:00 p.m. MT (5:00 p.m. ET).Corporate SecretaryGail L. Harding, Q.C.Senior Vice President General Counsel and Corporate SecretaryCanadian Western BankSuite 3000, 10303 Jasper AvenueEdmonton, Alberta   T5J 3X6Telephone: (780) 969.1525Fax: (780) 969.1503Complaints or Concerns regarding Accounting, Internal Accounting Controls or Auditing MattersPlease contact either: Tracey C. BallExecutive Vice President and Chief Financial OfficerCanadian Western BankTelephone: (780) 423.8855Fax: (780) 969.8326Email: tracey.ball@cwbank.comorRobert A. ManningChairman of the Audit Committeec/o 210-5324 Calgary TrailEdmonton, Alberta T6H 4J8Telephone: (780) 438.2626Fax: (780) 438.2632Email: rmanning@shawbiz.ca      Management’s Discussion and Analysis

table of contents
33  BuSinESS PRofilE AnD StRAtEgy 

36  gRouP finAnciAl PERfoRMAncE 

36  Overview 
39  Net Interest Income 
40  Other Income 
42  Non-interest Expenses  

and Efficiency
Income and Capital Taxes 

43 
44  Comprehensive Income 
44  Cash and Securities 
45  Loans 
48  Credit Quality 
51  Deposits
53  Other Assets  

and Other Liabilities 
53  Liquidity Management 
56  Contractual Obligations 
57  Capital Management 

61  Financial Instruments  
and Other Instruments 

62  Acquisitions 
62  Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements 

63  oPERAting SEgMEnt REViEw 

63  Banking and Trust 
66 

Insurance 

67  SuMMARy of QuARtERly RESultS

67  Quarterly Results 

68  Fourth Quarter of 2011 

69  Accounting PoliciES AnD EStiMAtES

69   Critical Accounting Estimates 
70  Changes in Accounting Policies 
71   Future Changes in Accounting  

Policies

75  RiSk MAnAgEMEnt 

75   Overview 
77  Credit Risk 

78   Liquidity Risk 
78  Market Risk 
80 
Insurance Risk 
80  Operational Risk 
81   General Business  

and Economic Conditions 

81  Level of Competition 
82  Regulatory and Legal Risk 
82  Accuracy and Completeness  
of Information on Customers  
and Counterparties 
82  Ability to Execute Growth  

82 

Initiatives 
Information Systems  
and Technology
82  Reputation Risk  
82  Other Factors 

83  uPDAtED SHARE infoRMAtion 

83  contRolS AnD PRocEDuRES 

Business Profile and Strategy
Canadian Western Bank (CWB or the Bank) offers a diverse range 
of financial services and is the largest publicly traded Canadian 
bank headquartered in Western Canada. The Bank, along with 
its subsidiaries, National Leasing Group Inc. (National Leasing), 
Canadian Western Trust Company (CWT), Valiant Trust Company 
(Valiant), Canadian Direct Insurance Incorporated (Canadian 
Direct), Adroit Investment Management Ltd. (Adroit) and Canadian 
Western Financial Ltd. (CWF), are together known as Canadian 
Western Bank Group (CWB Group). 

CWB Group currently operates in the financial services areas 
of banking, trust, insurance and wealth management. The 
Bank is primarily focused on its core business lending and 
personal banking services in Western Canada. National Leasing 
specializes in commercial equipment leasing for small and 
mid-sized transactions and is represented across Canada. CWT 
provides trustee and custody services to independent financial 
advisors, corporations, brokerage firms and individuals. CWT 
also underwrites and administers residential mortgages through 
its operating division, Optimum Mortgage. Valiant’s operations 
include stock transfer and corporate trust services. Canadian 
Direct provides personal auto and home insurance to customers 
in British Columbia (BC) and Alberta. Adroit specializes in 
discretionary wealth management for individuals, corporations 
and institutional clients. Third-party mutual funds are offered 
through CWF, the Bank’s mutual fund dealer subsidiary. 

Vision 
CWB Group is seen as crucial to our clients’ futures. 

Mission 
To build a western Canadian-based financial services franchise 
through responsible delivery of:

•  Entrepreneurial approaches to assist clients and support  
growth in the business areas of banking, trust, insurance  
and wealth management;

•  Best-in-class client experiences that are responsive, resourceful 

and realistic;

•  Relevant financial products that fit with demonstrated areas  

of expertise and chosen geographic markets;

•  Progressive career opportunities that are engaging, educational 

and rewarding; 

•  Meaningful contributions to the communities where  

CWB Group operates; and,

•  Consistent profitability and strong shareholder returns 
that reflect an industry-leading, growth-focused group 
of companies.

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

33

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CWB’s overall strategic plan is based on two overriding themes: 
1) “Do what we do, only better.”

2) “Make the whole worth more than the sum of the parts.”

Additional strategic priorities include:

•  Maintenance of a conservative risk profile and strong capital 

base while ensuring growth is focused, strategic and accretive 
for shareholders;

•  Reinforcement of leadership in cost efficiency and low 

credit losses by enhancing service delivery capabilities and 
maintaining strong discipline in managing lending portfolios;

•  Leveraging core profitability and further diversifying funding 
sources, which includes ongoing generation of internal core 
deposits raised through the branch network, trust operations 
and over the Internet;

•  Improvement of revenue diversification by further developing 

non-interest revenue sources through both internal growth and 
potential strategic acquisitions;

•  Supporting return on common shareholders’ equity by 

maintaining strong operating performance, an efficient capital 
structure, and continued diversification into business areas 
with lower capital requirements;

•  Recruiting, developing and retaining high quality employees, 

who embrace the Bank’s culture, by offering a rewarding work 
environment that includes comprehensive employee benefits, 
career growth opportunities, a focus on work/life balance 
and competitive compensation packages. CWB believes that 
such employees are critical to build and maintain competitive 
advantages related to offering superior client service and 
relationship-based banking; and,

•  Further building CWB’s reputation and reinforcing public 

confidence through continued stakeholder communication, 
diligence in corporate governance practices, and high 
standards in corporate social responsibility, corporate reporting 
and accountability.

The 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 of CWB, as well as a discussion of the 
performance of each operating segment and a summary of 
quarterly results. Additional information relating to the Bank, 
including the Annual Information Form, is available on SEDAR  
at www.sedar.com and on the Bank’s website at  
www.cwbankgroup.com.

forward-looking Statements
From time to time, CWB 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”, “goal”, “focus”, “potential”, “proposed”  
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 and 
are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties, which give rise to the possibility that 
the Bank’s predictions, forecasts, projections, expectations and conclusions will not 
prove to be accurate, that its assumptions may not be correct and that its strategic 
goals will not be achieved. 

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, general business 
and economic conditions in Canada, including the volatility and lack of liquidity 
in financial markets, 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, 
changes in accounting standards and policies, 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. It is important to note that the preceding list is not exhaustive of 
possible factors.

Additional information about these factors can be found in the Risk Management 
section of this Management’s Discussion and Analysis (MD&A). 

These and other factors should be considered carefully, and readers are cautioned 
not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements as a number of 
important factors could cause the Bank’s actual results to differ materially from 
the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements. Unless required 
by securities law, 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.

Assumptions about the performance of the Canadian economy in 2012 and how it 
will affect CWB’s businesses are material factors the Bank considers when setting its 
objectives. In setting minimum performance targets for fiscal 2012, management’s 
assumptions included:

•  Modest economic growth in Canada aided by positive relative performance in the 

four western provinces;

•  Relatively stable energy and other commodity prices;

•  Sound credit quality with actual losses remaining within the Bank’s historical 

range of acceptable levels; and,

•  A lower net interest margin attributed to expectations for a prolonged period of 

very low interest rates due to uncertainties about the strength of global economic 
recovery and potential adverse effects from the ongoing European debt crisis.

34

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

taxable Equivalent Basis (teb)
Most banks analyze 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 of $11.1 million (2010 – $11.2 
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 
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 
taxable equivalent basis throughout this MD&A.

non-gAAP Measures
Taxable equivalent basis, return on common shareholders’ equity, return on assets, 
diluted cash earnings per share, efficiency ratio, net interest margin, tangible 
common equity to risk-weighted assets, Tier 1 and total capital adequacy ratios, 
average balances, provision for credit losses as a percentage of average loans, claims 
loss ratio, expense ratio and combined ratio do not have standardized meanings 
prescribed by GAAP and, therefore, may not be comparable to similar measures 
presented by other financial institutions. The non-GAAP measures used in this MD&A 
are calculated as follows:

•  taxable equivalent basis – described above;

•  return on common shareholders’ equity – net income after preferred share 

dividends divided by average common shareholders’ equity;

•  return on assets – net income after preferred share dividends divided by average 

total assets;

•  diluted cash earnings per share – diluted earnings per common share excluding 

the after-tax amortization of acquisition-related intangible assets;

•  efficiency ratio – non-interest expenses divided by total revenues (net interest 

income plus other income);

•  net interest margin – net interest income divided by average total assets;

•  tangible common equity to risk-weighted assets – shareholders’ equity less 

subsidiary goodwill divided by risk-weighted assets, calculated in accordance 
with guidelines issued by the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions 
Canada (OSFI);

•  Tier 1 and total capital adequacy ratios – in accordance with guidelines issued 

by OSFI;

•  average balances – average daily balances;

•  provision for credit losses as a percentage of average loans - provision for credit 

losses divided by average loans;

•  claims loss ratio – net insurance claims and adjustment expenses as a percentage 

of net earned premiums;

•  expense ratio – policy acquisition costs and non-interest expenses net of 

commissions and processing fees as a percentage of net earned premiums; and,

•  combined ratio – sum of the claims loss and expense ratios.

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

35

group financial Performance
overview

Highlights of 2011 (compared to 2010)
•  Record net income of $178.1 million, up 9%, marking  

94 consecutive profitable quarters.

•  Very strong loan growth of 16%.

•  Return on common shareholders’ equity of 15.6%, down  

150 basis points.

•  Return on assets of 1.20%, down four basis points.

•  Record diluted earnings per common share of $2.12, up  
3%. Record diluted cash earnings per common share of  
$2.18, up 4%.

•  Record total revenues (teb) of $491.0 million, up 13%.

•  Efficiency ratio (teb) of 45.3%, a 120 basis point deterioration.

•  Tangible common equity to risk-weighted assets ratio of 8.6%, 

up from 8.5%; Tier 1 capital ratio of 11.1%, down 20 basis 
points; total capital ratio of 15.4%, up from 14.3%.

•  Net interest margin (teb) of 2.82%, up eight basis points.

•  Cash dividends of $0.54 per share paid to common 

•  Improved credit quality as evidenced by six consecutive 
quarterly reductions in the level of gross impaired loans; 
provision for credit losses measured as a percentage of  
average loans of 20 basis points, down one basis point.

shareholders, up 23%.

•  Surpassed $14 billion of total assets, $12 billion of total loans 

and $9 billion of total assets under administration.

Table 1 – SelecT annual Financial inFormaTion (1) 
($ thousands, except per share amounts)

Change from 2010

key Performance indicators
Net income
Earnings per share

Basic
Diluted
Diluted cash (1)

Provision for credit losses as a percentage of average loans
Net interest margin (teb) (1)
Net interest margin
Efficiency ratio (teb) (1) (3)
Efficiency ratio
Return on common shareholders’ equity
Return on assets
other financial information
Total revenues (teb)
Total revenues
Total assets
Subordinated debentures
Common share dividends

2011 

2010 

2009 

$

$  178,149 

$ 

163,621 

$ 

106,285 

$ 

14,528 

 – 
 0.07 
 0.09 

 2.26 
 2.12 
 2.18 
 0.20%
 2.82 
 2.74 
 45.3 
 46.3 
 15.6 
 1.20 

 2.26 
 2.05 
 2.09 
 0.21%
 2.74 
 2.64 
 44.1 
 45.3 
 17.1 
 1.24 

1.51
1.47
1.49
0.15%
2.10
2.03
48.2
49.4
13.2
0.86

$  491,014 
 479,955 
 14,772,035 
 545,000 
 0.54 

$ 

434,259 
 423,073 
 12,701,691 
 315,000 
 0.44 

$ 

327,966 
 320,119 
11,635,872 
 375,000 
 0.44 

$ 

56,755 
 56,882 
 2,070,344 
 230,000 
 0.10 

%

 9%

 – 
 3 
 4 
 (1) bp(2)
 8 
 10 
 120 
 100 
 (150)
 (4)

 13%
 13 
 16 
 73 
 23 

(1)  See page 35 for a discussion of teb and non-GAAP measures.
(2)  bp – basis points.
(3)  A decrease in the ratio reflects improved efficiency, while an increase reflects deterioration.

36

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

 
 
Record net income of $178.1 million increased 9% ($14.5 million) 
over 2010 while diluted earnings per common share was $2.12 
($2.26 basic), up 3% from $2.05 ($2.26 basic) in the prior year. 
Diluted cash earnings per share, which excludes the after-tax 
amortization of acquisition-related intangible assets, was $2.18, 
up 4%. Record total revenues (teb) of $491.0 million grew 
13% ($56.8 million), reflecting the combined benefit of very 
strong 16% ($1,725 million) loan growth, an eight basis point 
improvement in net interest margin (teb) to 2.82% and a 1% ($0.7 
million) increase in other income. Margin expansion in the year 
was mainly due to improved deposit costs and lower average 
liquidity levels, partially offset by higher debenture expense. 
Credit quality improved consistent with expectations, and the 
provision for credit losses as a percentage of average loans 
remained relatively low at 20 basis points. 

The efficiency ratio (teb), which measures non-interest expenses 
as a percentage of total revenues (teb), of 45.3% deteriorated 120 
basis points from last year as the benefit of strong percentage 
growth in total revenues was more than offset by a 16% 
($31.0 million) increase in non-interest expenses. The increase 
in non-interest expenses was mainly attributed to additional 
staff complement and ongoing investment in branches, other 
infrastructure and technology to support continued business 
growth. The acquisition of National Leasing, effective  
February 1, 2010, impacted the change in both total revenues  
and non-interest expenses as fiscal 2011 represented the Bank’s 
first full year of operations from this business. 

The annual return on common shareholders’ equity of 15.6% 
was down 150 basis points compared to 2010, while return on 
assets decreased four basis points to 1.20%. The reduction in 
these key profitability ratios was mainly due to the impact of 
additional common shares issued upon the exercise of warrants 
and a tax recovery from certain prior period transactions that 
increased 2010 net income by approximately $8.3 million. Total 
cash dividends paid to common shareholders of $0.54 per share 
increased 23% from $0.44 per share paid in the prior year.

Total assets increased 16% to reach $14,772 million, driven by 
loan growth. Each lending sector recorded strong growth for 
the year, reflecting positive performance across all of the Bank’s 
geographic regions. 

Total branch-raised deposits increased 9% ($602 million) 
compared to the previous year, while the demand and notice 
component within branch-raised deposits was up 13% ($461 
million). Strong growth in branch-raised deposits, including the 
demand and notice component, reflects the success of ongoing 
strategies to further enhance and diversify the Bank’s core 
funding sources. Total deposits grew 16% ($1,687 million) in the 
year to reach $12,500 million and kept pace with very strong loan 
growth. Additional personal fixed rate term deposits were raised 
through the deposit broker network and $250 million of fixed 
term floating rate notes were issued in the debt capital markets. 
Total branch-raised deposits represented 58% of total deposits 
at October 31, 2011, compared to 61% a year earlier. The demand 
and notice component comprised 32% of total deposits, down 
from 33% at October 31, 2010. The ratio of total deposits to total 
loans at October 31, 2011 was 1.02 times, down slightly from 1.03 
times last year. 

The maintenance of strong capital levels is fundamental to 
management’s objectives to effectively manage risks, support 
strong loan growth and maintain adequate flexibility to pursue 
strategic opportunities that are accretive for CWB shareholders. 
The Bank’s Tier 1 and total capital ratios at October 31, 2011 of 
11.1% and 15.4%, respectively, remained well above both internal 
and regulatory minimums. The tangible common equity ratio, 
which represents the highest quality form of capital, was also 
strong at 8.6%, up from 8.5% twelve months ago. Application  
of the expected Basel III rules as prescribed by OSFI to the Bank’s 
financial position at October 31, 2011 confirms management’s 
view that CWB is already in compliance with the new minimum 
regulatory capital ratio requirements. 

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

37

Minimum Performance targets and outlook
The performance targets established for the 2011 fiscal year, 
together with actual performance, and new minimum targets 
for fiscal 2012 are presented in Table 2. The 2012 minimum 
targets are calculated under Canadian GAAP. Starting in the first 
quarter of 2012, the Bank will transition to International Financial 

Reporting Standards (IFRS) and the following targets will change 
when calculated under IFRS. The Bank intends to pre-release the 
2011 transition adjustments between GAAP and IFRS before the 
end of the first quarter 2012, and the minimum targets will be 
amended accordingly at that time.

Table 2 – PerFormance TargeTS

Net income growth (1)
Net income growth, before taxes (teb) (2)

Total revenue (teb) growth

Loan growth

Provision for credit losses as a percentage of average loans

Efficiency ratio (teb)
Return on common shareholders’ equity (3)

Return on assets (4)

2011
Minimum  
Targets

2011  

Performance

2012
Minimum
Targets

6%

10

12

10

0.20 – 0.25

46

15

1.20

9%

11

13

16

0.20

45.3

15.6

1.20

6%
n/a (5)

6

10

0.20 – 0.25

46

15

1.10

(1)  Net income before preferred share dividends.
(2)  Net income before income taxes (teb), non-controlling interest in subsidiary and preferred share dividends.
(3)  Return on common shareholders’ equity calculated as net income after preferred share dividends divided by average common shareholders’ equity.
(4)  Return on assets calculated as net income after preferred share dividends divided by average total assets.
(5)  n/a – not applicable.

CWB exceeded or met all of its fiscal 2011 minimum 
performance targets, led by very strong loan growth of 16%. 
Growth in both total revenues (teb) and net income was well 
above the respective targets due to loan growth, a relatively 
stable net interest margin and significant gains on sale of 
securities realized in the first two quarters. Strong loan growth 
was apparent across each of the Bank’s lending sectors and all 
geographic markets. Measured in dollars, the strongest loan 
growth by lending sector was in general commercial loans, 
closely followed by equipment financing. Overall credit quality 
improved throughout the year and, as a result, the provision 
for credit losses was at the low end of the target range. The 
return on common shareholders’ equity was slightly above 
expectations while return on assets was on par with the target. 

Management believes Canada will see modest growth in 
2012 despite ongoing impacts of the European debt crisis and 
economic uncertainties in the United States (U.S.). The Bank’s 
key markets in Western Canada are expected to perform well 
relative to the rest of Canada largely owing to strong capital 
investment related to a favourable long-term outlook for 
commodities, including the positive impact on demand from 
developing economies. The Bank will maintain its focus on 
quality, secured loans that offer a fair and profitable return. 
While certain challenges will persist related to increased 
competition and uncertainty about the strength of economic 
recovery, the volume in the pipeline for new loans remains 
solid. The 2012 target for loan growth has been set at 10%. 
Overall credit quality is within expectations and the provision 

for credit losses is targeted between 20 to 25 basis points of 
average loans. Targets for growth in total revenues and net 
income reflect confidence in CWB’s proven business model and 
overall strategic direction, but also consider ongoing challenges. 
The growth target for total revenues (teb) of 6% compares to 
actual growth achieved in 2011 of 13%; the difference largely 
reflects a comparatively higher starting point that includes a full 
year of revenue recognition from National Leasing, as well as 
expectations for limited gains on sale of securities in 2012. Net 
interest margin is also expected to be lower in 2012. Minimum 
targets for return on common shareholders’ equity and return 
on assets have been established at 15% and 1.10%, respectively. 
One of management’s key priorities is to maintain effective 
control of costs while ensuring the Bank is positioned to deliver 
continued strong growth. In consideration of targeted revenue 
growth and planned expenditures, the 2012 efficiency ratio (teb) 
is expected to remain at 46% or less.

Ongoing strong performance is expected within each company 
of the CWB Group, and the development of each business will 
remain a key priority to further diversify operations. With its 
strong capital position, CWB is well positioned to take advantage 
of opportunities and manage unforeseen challenges that may 
arise. Management will maintain its focus on creating value and 
growth for shareholders over the long term. While potential 
adverse impacts from the European debt crisis and global 
economic uncertainties will continue to be closely monitored, 
the current overall outlook for 2012 and beyond is positive. 

38

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

 
 
net interest income
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.

Highlights of 2011
•  Record net interest income (teb) increased 17% to $384.7 million 
based on 14% growth in average total interest earning assets.

•  Net interest margin (teb) was up eight basis points to 2.82%.

Table 3 – neT inTereST income (teb)(1) 
($ thousands)

2011

2010

Average

Balance

Mix

interest

interest

Rate

Average

Balance

Mix

Interest

Interest 

Rate

$  1,902,370 

14% $  58,382 

3.07% $ 

1,767,193 

15% $ 

56,627 

3.20%

Assets
Cash, securities and deposits with
regulated financial institutions

Securities purchased under 

resale agreements

 94,403 

 1 

 916 

0.97 

 163,390 

 2,794,172 

 8,534,996 

 11,329,168 

 13,325,941 

 307,310 

 20 

 63 

 83 

 98 

 2 

 119,800 

 477,485 

 597,285 

 656,583 

 – 

4.29 

5.59 

5.27 

4.93 

0.00 

 2,319,765 

 7,486,043 

 9,805,808 

 11,736,391 

 270,379 

 2 

 19 

 62 

 81 

 98 

 2 

 872 

0.53 

 103,371 

 407,903 

 511,274 

 568,773 

 – 

4.46 

5.45 

5.21 

4.85 

0.00 

$ 13,633,251 

100% $  656,583 

4.82% $  12,006,770 

100% $  568,773 

4.74%

$ 

569,709 

4% $ 

– 

0.00% $ 

461,662 

4% $ 

– 

0.00%

Loans

Residential mortgages

Other loans

Total interest bearing assets

Other assets

total Assets

liabilities
Deposits

Demand

Notice

Fixed term

 3,286,379 

 7,437,030 

Deposit from CWB Capital Trust

 105,000 

Other liabilities

Subordinated debentures

Shareholders’ equity

 11,398,118 

 455,119 

 523,639 

 1,256,375 

 24 

 55 

 1 

 84 

 3 

 4 

 9 

 35,668 

 202,937 

 6,745 

 245,350 

 98 

 26,452 

 – 

1.09 

2.73 

6.42 

2.15 

0.02 

5.05 

0.00 

 2,970,970 

 6,642,576 

 105,000 

 10,180,208 

 430,468 

 318,729 

 1,077,365 

 25 

 55 

 1 

 85 

 3 

 3 

 9 

 21,274 

 194,258 

 6,745 

 222,277 

 79 

 17,753 

 – 

total liabilities and Equity

$ 13,633,251 

100% $  271,900 

total Assets/net interest income

$ 13,633,251 

$  384,683 

1.99% $  12,006,770 
2.82% $  12,006,770 

100% $  240,109 

$  328,664 

(1) 

 See page 35 for a discussion of teb and other non-GAAP measures.

0.72 

2.92 

6.42 

2.18 

0.02 

5.57 

0.00 

2.00%

2.74%

Record net interest income (teb) of $384.7 million increased 17% 
($56.0 million) for the year, reflecting the combined positive impact 
of 14% ($1,590 million) growth in average interest earning assets, 
a slightly higher overall asset yield and lower deposit costs. Growth 
in average interest earning assets was mainly driven by very 
strong growth in total average loans of 16% ($1,523 million). Net 
interest margin increased eight basis points to 2.82% based on 
lower average costs on fixed rate term deposits, a slight increase in 
average loan yields (with the exception of residential mortgages),  
a 17% ($179 million) increase in the average balance of 

shareholders’ equity and 23% ($108 million) growth in the average 
balance of zero cost demand deposits. The improvement in margin 
was partially offset by the impact of higher average liquidity 
measured as a percentage of average assets, increased expense 
related to the higher balance of subordinated debentures and 
lower yields on securities. Margin further benefited from increased 
yields on fixed rate loans reflecting a generally favourable pricing 
environment and a full-year contribution from National Leasing. The 
average yield on residential mortgages was down for the year, mainly 
due to changes in benchmark bond rates and competitive factors. 

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

39

 
 
 
The current very low interest rate environment, the relatively flat 
shape of the interest rate curve, increased competitive influences 
and higher average liquidity levels have a negative impact on 
net interest margin. Generally, increases in the prime interest 
rate positively impact the Bank’s net interest margin because 
prime-based loans reprice more quickly than deposits, which 

subsequently expands the interest spread earned on the Bank’s 
assets. The prime rate averaged 3.00% compared to 2.46% last year. 
The prime rate as at October 31, 2011 was 3.00%, up slightly from 
its historic low of 2.25% established in April 2009, but unchanged 
throughout fiscal 2011.

outlook for net interest income
Fiscal 2012 net interest income is expected to increase with the 
targeted 10% loan growth. The current very low interest rate 
environment and relatively flat shape of the interest rate curve 
will limit the Bank’s ability to enhance margins from current 
levels, particularly on low and no-cost deposits where margin 
is diminished. In a more normal interest rate environment, a 
steeper upward sloping interest rate curve would be observed 
that would allow for a significant incremental earnings benefit 
from the Bank’s growing base of core deposits that are less 
interest sensitive. In addition, a steeper curve provides a more 
meaningful positive differential between the incremental price on 

loans and the cost of matched funding based on the duration of 
certain portfolios. Increased competition currently encountered in 
certain business areas also lowers overall loan pricing. The Bank 
expects to carry higher than normal liquidity due to elevated 
global economic uncertainties, including concerns about the 
ongoing European debt crisis. Higher liquidity generally pressures 
net interest margin due to the increased level of lower yielding 
assets. The foregoing factors support management’s current 
expectations that net interest margin (teb) will continue to be 
pressured in 2012, consistent with what was observed in the 
latter part of 2011. 

other income

Highlights of 2011
•  Other income increased 1% as growth in trust and wealth 

management services, credit-related fee income and foreign 
exchange gains was largely offset by lower gains on sale of 
securities and a reduction in net insurance revenues reflecting 
the impact of the Alberta auto risk sharing pools and the 
catastrophic wildfire in Slave Lake, Alberta. 

•  Other income represented 22% of total revenues (teb), 

compared to 24% in 2010, reflecting relatively stronger growth 
in net interest income due to very strong loan growth and a 
slightly improved margin. 

Table 4 – oTher income 
($ thousands)

Insurance

Net earned premiums

Commissions and processing fees

Net claims and adjustment expenses

Policy acquisition costs

Net insurance revenues

Credit related

Trust and wealth management services

Gains on sale of securities, net

Retail services

Securitization revenue

Foreign exchange

Other (1)

total other income

2011 

2010 

$

Change from 2010

$ 

117,632 

$ 

111,368 

$ 

 1,869 

 (74,734)

 (24,517)

 20,250 

 32,821 

 19,050 

 10,306 

 9,486 

 3,969 

 3,488 

 6,961 

 2,347 

 (68,641)

 (23,358)

 21,716 

 31,550 

 17,316 

 12,447 

 9,017 

 4,285 

 2,422 

 6,842 

$ 

106,331 

$ 

105,595 

$ 

6,264 

 (478)

 (6,093)

 (1,159)

 (1,466)

 1,271 

 1,734 

 (2,141)

 469 

 (316)

 1,066 

 119 

736 

%

 6%

 (20)

 9 

 5 

 (7)

 4 

 10 

 (17)

 5 

 (7)

 44 

 2 

 1%

(1) 

Includes lease administration services, fair value changes related to derivative financial instruments not accounted for as hedges, gains/losses on land, buildings and equipment disposals, and other 
miscellaneous non-interest revenues.

40

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

Other income of $106.3 million was up 1% ($0.7 million), led by 
strong results across CWB’s core banking and trust operations, 
including National Leasing’s revenue contributions, which 
commenced in the second quarter of 2010. Strong 10% ($1.7 
million) growth in trust and wealth management services and 
4% ($1.3 million) higher credit-related fee income more than 
offset the impact of $2.1 million lower gains on sale of securities. 
Fees related to trust and wealth management services reflected 
solid performance in each of CWT, Valiant and Adroit, while 
growth in credit fee income was mainly related to increased 
lending activity. Despite the decrease in the level of gains on 
sale of securities, contributions from this category of other 
income continued to exceed normal historical amounts as 
significant gains were realized in the first half of the year due to a 
repositioning of investments in common equities and preferred 
shares. Management’s decision to sell certain preferred shares 
issued by financial institutions reflects forthcoming changes 
under the new regulatory capital framework known as Basel III, 
which requires a deduction from regulatory capital of amounts 
over a certain threshold for this type of investment. Unusually 
high gains realized in 2010 reflected market conditions and 
investment strategies that allowed the Bank to capitalize on 
opportunities to realize gains while maintaining relatively 
comparable yields on reinvestment in other high quality 
investment grade securities. 

Net insurance revenues were down $1.5 million as the positive 
impact of 6% growth in net earned premiums was more than 
offset by the combined impact of increased claims expense 
and a $2.5 million lower before tax earnings contribution from 
Canadian Direct’s share of the Alberta auto risk sharing pools. 
Increases in foreign exchange gains and retail services fee 
income of $1.1 million and $0.5 million, respectively, more than 
offset a $0.3 million decline in National Leasing’s securitization 
revenue. The ‘other’ category within other income was relatively 
unchanged and mainly included lease administration revenues 
and changes in fair value of National Leasing’s interest rate 
swaps. The ‘other’ category of other income also included 
approximately $1.9 million attributed to the fourth quarter sale  
of a relatively small portfolio of residential mortgages by 
Optimum Mortgage. 

Other income as a percentage of total revenues (net interest 
income and other income) declined to 22%, compared to 24% in 
the prior year. The change was mainly attributed to comparatively 
higher growth in net interest income due to very strong loan 
growth and a slightly improved net interest margin. 

outlook for other income
CWB’s objective is to grow non-interest revenues through the 
generation of new business with both existing and potential 
clients, an enhanced market presence and expanded product 
offerings. The achievement of this objective will be supported 
by plans for continued expansion of CWB’s branch network 
and further development of insurance, trust services, wealth 
management and other complementary fee-based businesses. 
Management also expects to continue to evaluate opportunities 
to expand sources of other income through acquisition.

Growth is expected across all core categories of other income, 
reflecting double-digit loan growth and the Bank’s continued 
focus on enhancing transactional services and other sources of 
fee income. Based on the current composition of the securities 
portfolio, interest rate curves and elevated volatility in financial 
markets due to global uncertainties, management expects the 
future level of gains on sale of securities will be significantly 
lower than has been achieved in the past three years. The IFRS 
transition in 2012 will introduce additional potential for volatility 
in other income as it relates to accounting for both unrealized 
losses in the available-for-sale securities portfolio and any 

change in fair value of the acquisition-related contingent 
consideration for National Leasing. The ‘other’ category of other 
income is expected to be lower in future periods, partially 
reflecting a reduction in lease administration revenues due  
to the termination of a servicing contract. 

The trust companies, including Optimum Mortgage, expect 
solid growth in 2012 resulting from increased market share and 
ongoing business development in both core western markets 
and select areas in Ontario. Net insurance revenues should 
benefit from continued policy growth supported by Canadian 
Direct’s sound underwriting practices and continued focus on 
building a well balanced book of business. However, increased 
volatility in the claims ratio could result from seasonal storm 
activity, particularly in the winter months, and by the strategic 
decision to increase the retention limit on Canadian Direct’s 
catastrophe reinsurance treaty to $5 million (2011 – $2 million). 
Adroit had good success in the year introducing its services to 
many CWB banking clients and this positive trend is expected  
to continue. 

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

41

Non-interest Expenses and Efficiency

Highlights of 2011
The efficiency ratio (teb) of 45.3% represented a 120 basis point 
deterioration compared to 2010 as the positive impact of strong 

13% growth in total revenues was offset by a 16% increase in  
non-interest expenses.

Table 5 – non-inTereST exPenSeS and eFFiciency raTio 
($ thousands)

2011

2010

$

Change from 2010

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

Amortization of intangibles

Banking charges

Postage and stationery

Regulatory costs

Travel

Communications

Capital and business taxes

Community investment

General insurance

Other

total non-interest Expenses

$ 

118,323 

$ 

 23,542 

 141,865 

 14,929 

 4,736 

 2,975 

 22,640 

 7,609 

 6,489 

 14,098 

 6,979 

 6,973 

 6,000 

 3,222 

 2,845 

 2,439 

 2,375 

 1,631 

 1,588 

 1,140 

 970 

 7,686 

$ 

103,273 

 20,699 

 123,972 

15,050 

 2,843 

 17,893 

 13,564 

 3,697 

 2,208 

 19,469 

 6,335 

 5,644 

 11,979 

 5,122 

 5,220 

 4,068 

 2,907 

 2,458 

 1,916 

 1,636 

 998 

 1,979 

 1,158 

 1,280 

 7,318 

 1,365 

 1,039 

 767 

 3,171 

 1,274 

 845 

 2,119 

 1,857 

 1,753 

 1,932 

 315 

 387 

 523 

 739 

 633 

 (391)

 (18)

 (310)

 368 

 43,848 

$ 

222,451 

$ 

 36,060 

191,480 

$ 

 7,788 

30,971 

%

 15%

 14 

 14 

 10 

 28 

 35 

 16 

 20 

 15 

 18 

 36 

 34 

 47 

 11 

 16 

 27 

 45 

 63 

 (20)

 (2)

 (24)

 5 

 22 

 16%

Efficiency Ratio (teb) (1) (2)

45.3%

44.1%

 120 bp (3)

(1)  Non-interest expenses as a percentage of total revenues (net interest income (teb) plus other income). See page 35 for a discussion of teb and other non-GAAP measures.
(2)  A decrease in this ratio reflects improved efficiency, while an increase reflects deterioration.
(3)  bp – basis points.

42

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

Total non-interest expenses of $222.5 million increased 16% ($31.0 
million) largely driven by a 14% ($17.9 million) increase in salary 
and employee benefits due to a combination of increased staff 
complement and annual salary increments. The number of full-time 
equivalent employees (FTEs) grew 5% (80 FTEs) from October 31, 
2010, reflecting staffing requirements for additional bank branches, 
corporate support services and other business expansion. For 
comparison purposes, results for fiscal 2010 included only nine 
months of National Leasing’s operations. Excluding the impact of 
National Leasing for both years, including related amortization of 
intangible assets, total non-interest expenses were up 11% ($18.9 
million). Premises and equipment expenses, including depreciation, 
increased 17% ($5.3 million) and reflected the impact of two new 
full-service branches opened near the end of 2010, the ongoing 
development and expansion of existing branches, and one new 
full-service branch opened in September 2011. Other premises 
and technology infrastructure investment such as the Bank’s new 
loan origination system and corporate office data centre also 
contributed to the increase. The new loan origination system is 
expected to provide considerable efficiencies at both the branch 
and corporate office level, which include improving the turnaround 
time of credit approvals and affording lenders more time to assist 
clients. It also offers enhanced statistical tracking and portfolio 
management capabilities. General non-interest expenses increased 

22% ($7.8 million) reflecting costs to manage the ongoing growth 
and development of CWB’s businesses and the first full year of 
National Leasing’s operations. Excluding National Leasing and the 
related amortization of intangibles, general non-interest expenses 
were up 14% (4.3 million).

Figure 1 – number oF Full-Time equivalenT STaFF

2011

+5%

2010

+28%

2009

2008

2007

+4%

+8%

+8%

1,796

1,716

1,339

1,284

1,185

The efficiency ratio (teb), which measures non-interest expenses  
as a percentage of total revenues (teb), was 45.3%, compared to 
44.1% last year as percentage growth in non-interest expenses 
exceeded percentage growth in total revenues. Non-interest 
expenses as a percentage of average assets of 1.6% was 
unchanged compared to 2010.

Outlook for Non-interest Expenses and Efficiency
One of management’s key priorities is to maintain effective 
control of costs while ensuring the Bank is positioned to deliver 
strong growth over the long term. Effective execution of CWB’s 
strategic plan will continue to require increased investment 
in certain areas. Significant anticipated expenditures relate to 
additional staff complement as well as expanded infrastructure 
and further technology upgrades. Investment in these areas 
is an integral part of the Bank’s commitment to maximize 
shareholder value and is expected to provide material benefits 
in future periods. A new full-service branch is expected to 
open in Winnipeg, Manitoba in 2012. Other potential new 
branch locations are currently under consideration. Upgrades 

and expansion of existing branch infrastructure will also 
continue. Lower provincial capital tax payments combined with 
expectations for modest inflationary pressures in 2012 will help 
moderate growth in non-interest expenses. 

Anticipated growth in total revenues (teb) should largely offset 
the impact of increased investment necessary for effective 
execution of CWB’s strategic plan. However, expected pressures 
on net interest margin, as previously discussed, will limit the 
potential for a meaningful improvement in the efficiency ratio in 
2012. Overall, CWB expects to achieve an efficiency ratio (teb) of 
46% or better in fiscal 2012.

income and capital taxes
The effective income tax rate (teb) was 27.6%, up 130 basis points 
from 2010, while the tax rate before the teb adjustment was 
24.2%, or 180 basis points higher. The provision in 2010 included 
a reduction to income taxes of $7.5 million related to taxation 
authorities’ confirmation of certain transactions that occurred 
in a prior year; the 2010 effective tax rate (teb) excluding the tax 
recovery would have been 29.9%, or 230 basis points higher than 
the current year. The lower tax rate, excluding the unusual item, 
mainly reflects a 150 basis point decrease in the basic federal 
income tax rate and a 50 basis point reduction in the provincial 
income tax rate in BC, both effective January 1, 2011. 

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 and liability relate primarily 
to the general allowance for credit losses and intangible assets, 
respectively. Future tax assets and liabilities are measured using 
enacted or substantively enacted tax rates anticipated 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.

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

43

Capital losses of $11.1 million (2010 – $11.1 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.

Capital taxes applicable to CWB for 2011 were lower than prior 
years. In the past two years, capital tax has been eliminated for 
CWB in both BC and Manitoba, while Alberta has not had a capital 

outlook
CWB’s expected income tax rate (teb) for fiscal 2012 is 
approximately 27.0%, or 23.5% before the teb adjustment. Total 
provincial capital taxes will decline significantly as only CWB’s 
Saskatchewan operations will be subject to capital tax. Capital 

tax for several years. CWB remains subject to provincial capital 
tax in Saskatchewan. Capital taxes for 2011 totaled $1.4 million, 
representing a 10% decline from 2010. Provincial capital taxes in 
2011 include final payments to provinces where CWB’s capital tax 
requirements have been eliminated. 

taxes in Saskatchewan will increase with the ongoing retention 
of earnings and any potential impact from the issuance of new 
capital, if material.

comprehensive income
Comprehensive income is comprised of net income and other 
comprehensive income (OCI), all net of income taxes. CWB’s OCI 
includes unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale cash 
and securities, and, in 2010, fair value changes for derivative 
instruments designated as cash flow hedges.

Comprehensive income totaled $159.1 million for the year, compared 
to $167.4 million last year. Lower OCI in 2011 reflects $11.7 million 

of unrealized losses on available-for-sale securities, compared to 
$14.3 million of unrealized gains last year. The significant change 
in unrealized gains/losses mainly reflects the negative impact on 
equity prices from a broad sell-off in financial markets in the latter 
part of the year due to escalating concerns about the European debt 
crisis. The decrease in OCI was partially offset by $14.5 million higher 
net income compared to 2010, as previously mentioned.

Table 6 – comPrehenSive income 
($ thousands)

net income

other comprehensive income (loss)
Available-for-sale securities

Gains (losses) from change in fair value, net of tax

Reclassification to other income, net of tax

Derivatives designated as cash flow hedges

Gains from change in fair value, net of tax

Reclassification to net interest income, net of tax

2011

2010

  Change from  
2010

$ 

178,149 

$ 

163,621 

$ 

14,528 

 (11,710)

 (7,340)

 (19,050)

 – 

 – 

 – 

 (19,050)

 14,285 

 (8,868)

 5,417 

 17 

 (1,613)

 (1,596)

 3,821 

 (25,995)

 1,528 

 (24,467)

 (17)

 1,613 

 1,596 

 (22,871)

total comprehensive income

$ 

159,099 

$ 

167,442 

$ 

(8,343)

cash and Securities
Cash, securities and securities purchased under resale agreements 
totaled $2,238 million at October 31, 2011, compared to $1,876 
million one year ago. Total net unrealized gains before tax recorded 
on the balance sheet at October 31, 2011 were $5.4 million, 
compared to $32.1 million last year. The significant change in net 
unrealized gains mainly reflects fluctuations in the market value 
of common and preferred equities, as well as net gains realized 
through the income statement. The portfolio of preferred shares 
included net unrealized gains of $6.9 million at year end, down from 
$18.3 million a year earlier. The common equities portfolio showed 
net unrealized losses of $3.0 million, compared to net unrealized 
gains of $7.7 million at October 31, 2010. The cash and securities 

portfolio is mainly comprised of high quality debt instruments and 
a comparatively smaller component of preferred and common 
equities. Securities are not held for trading purposes and, where 
applicable, are typically held until maturity. Fluctuations in the value 
of securities, other than common equities, are generally attributed 
to changes in interest rates, movements in market credit spreads 
and shifts in the interest rate curve. Volatility in financial markets 
directly affects the value of common and preferred equities and, 
while the combined value of these investments is relatively small 
in relation to total liquid assets, it does increase the potential for 
comparatively larger fluctuations in OCI. The Bank’s common 
equity portfolio is mainly comprised of Canadian large market 

44

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

 
capitalization entities and is managed under a mandate to achieve 
dividend income with reasonable long-term capital appreciation. 
The IFRS transition in 2012 will introduce additional potential 
for volatility in reported earnings as it relates to accounting for 
unrealized losses on available-for-sale securities.

In the past three years, the Bank capitalized on opportunities to 
realize gains on sale of securities resulting from a combination of 
investment strategies and market conditions. Realized net gains on 
sale of securities in 2011 were $10.3 million, a $2.1 million decline 
compared to the prior year, but still well above the Bank’s longer 
term historical average. Based on the current composition of the 
securities portfolio, interest rate curves and elevated volatility in 

financial markets due to global uncertainties, management expects 
the level of gains on sale of securities in 2012 will be significantly 
lower than has been achieved in each of the past three years. 

CWB has no direct credit exposure to sovereign debt outside of 
Canada. CWB also has no direct exposure to any credit default 
swaps, collateralized debt obligations, non-bank sponsored  
asset-backed commercial paper or monoline insurers.

See Table 27 – Valuation of Financial Instruments of this MD&A for 
additional information.

Cash and securities are managed in conjunction with CWB’s overall 
liquidity; additional information and management’s outlook for 2012 
is included in the Liquidity Management discussion of this MD&A.

loans

Highlights of 2011 

•  Loan growth of 16% was driven by very strong performance 

•  Double-digit loan growth; an achievement realized in 21 

in all lending sectors and across each of the Bank’s 
geographic markets. 

of the past 22 years (the exception being 2009 when loan 
growth was 7%).

Table 7 – ouTSTanding loanS by PorTFolio 
($ millions)

Commercial mortgages

General commercial

Personal loans and mortgages

Equipment financing

Real estate project loans

Corporate loans

Oil & gas production

total outstanding loans

Change from 2010

$ 

$ 

2011 

2,700 

 2,606 

 2,020 

 2,006 

 1,888 

 709 

 363 

$ 

2010 

2,458 

 2,197 

 1,794 

 1,624 

 1,576 

 660 

 266 

$

242 

 409 

 226 

 382 

 312 

 49 

 97 

$ 

12,292 

$ 

10,575 

$ 

1,717 

%

 10%

 19 

 13 

 24 

 20 

 7 

 36 

 16%

Total loans, excluding the allowance for credit losses, increased 
16% ($1,717 million) to reach $12,292 million at year end. Measured 
by loan type as shown in Table 7, growth in general commercial 
loans of 19% ($409 million) represented the strongest source of 
loan growth in dollar terms. Based on industry sector as shown 
in Table 8, general commercial loans includes categories such as 
manufacturing, finance and insurance, wholesale and retail trade, 
and others. Oil and gas production loans had the best percentage 
growth at 36% ($97 million). The equipment financing portfolio, 
which includes the Bank’s heavy equipment financing business 
and the small and mid-ticket leasing business of National Leasing, 
increased 24% ($382 million). Real estate project loans increased 
20% ($312 million) reflecting strong activity in both residential 
and commercial construction. Commercial mortgages, an area 
where loan pricing continued to be highly competitive, grew 
10% ($242 million). Personal loans and mortgages, which include 
combined lending activity in CWB branches and the Bank’s broker-
sourced residential mortgage business, Optimum Mortgage, also 
showed solid results with 13% ($226 million) growth. Corporate 
loans represent a diversified portfolio that is centrally sourced 
and administered through a designated lending group located in 

Edmonton. These loans include participation in select syndications 
structured and led primarily by the major Canadian banks, but 
exclude participation in various other syndicated facilities sourced 
through relationships developed at CWB branches. Syndicated 
facilities that are sourced in branches are primarily real estate 
project loans and oil and gas production loans and are included 
under the related classifications in Table 7. 

Loans in Optimum Mortgage increased 17% ($138 million) over 
October 31, 2010 to reach $934 million, reflecting growth in 
both alternative mortgages and high ratio insured mortgages. 
Uninsured mortgages continue to be secured via conventional 
residential first mortgages carrying a weighted average loan-to-
value ratio at initiation of approximately 70%, and represented 
about 62% of Optimum Mortgage’s total portfolio at year end. 
Management remains committed to further developing this 
mortgage business as it continues to produce solid returns while 
maintaining an acceptable risk profile. The level of new lending 
opportunities in this business could moderate going forward, 
reflecting increased competitive pressure and overall slower growth 
in demand for residential mortgages.

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

45

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
While the mix of the portfolio remained relatively unchanged 
during the year (see Figure 2), the distribution did shift slightly 
from commercial mortgages to equipment financing. Based on the 
location of security, Alberta and BC represented 46% and 33% of 
total loans at year end, respectively. The geographic distribution 

of loans (see Figure 3 of this MD&A) shifted slightly from Alberta 
to “other” provinces reflecting the broader geographic footprint of 
National Leasing’s portfolio, increased participation in syndicated 
facilities led by other Canadian banks and growth of Optimum 
Mortgage’s business in Ontario. 

Figure 2 – ouTSTanding loanS by PorTFolio 
(October 31, 2010 in brackets)

General Commercial 
Loans (21%)

Personal Loans 
& Mortgages (17%)

Equipment 
Financing (15%)

Oil & Gas 
Production 
Loans (3%)

21%

22%

17%

15%

16%

6%

3%

Commercial 
Mortgages (23%)

Real Estate
Project Loans (15%)

Corporate 
Loans (6%)

outlook for loans
The Bank expects to maintain double-digit loan growth and has 
set its fiscal 2012 minimum loan growth target at 10%. While 
there is increased competition in certain areas, management 
believes market share will be gained from the combined positive 
influences of an expanded market presence, increased brand 
awareness in core geographic markets due in part to targeted 
marketing initiatives, and the effective execution of CWB’s 
strategic plan, which is focused on further enhancing existing 
competitive advantages. 

Canada’s domestic economy is expected to grow modestly in 
2012 despite impacts from the ongoing European debt crisis and 
U.S. economic uncertainties. The Bank’s key markets in Western 
Canada are expected to perform well relative to the rest of 
Canada, largely owing to strong capital investment related to a 
favourable long-term outlook for commodities. In Alberta, the 
forecast for 2012 is supported by significant long-term capital 
investment in the oilsands, as well as a relatively positive outlook 
for activity related to conventional oil production. Activity related 
to the resource sector in BC has also remained solid due to 
current favourable energy and commodity prices. Construction 
activity (both residential and non-residential) largely attributed 
to ongoing in-migration, as well as exports to Pacific Rim 

countries, including China, are expected to remain key economic 
drivers for BC in 2012. Growth in Saskatchewan will be supported 
by the region’s growing energy sector, potash production and 
the potential for improvement in agriculture output. Manitoba’s 
economy is diverse with positive economic growth contributions 
mainly expected from agriculture production, mining, and energy. 
Prices for natural gas have been very low for several years and no 
meaningful change is expected in the foreseeable future. This will 
likely continue to adversely affect companies that rely on activities 
related to natural gas exploration and production, drilling activity 
and supporting services. Relatively stable employment, real 
income growth, the expected very low interest rate environment, 
and continued migration of individuals and families toward 
Western Canada will help maintain an adequate balance between 
supply and demand for residential real estate. 

While strong competition from domestic banks and other 
financial services firms is expected to persist, the current 
overall outlook for new loans is encouraging. Major risks that 
would have a material adverse impact on the Bank’s economic 
expectations include a global economic recession spurred by 
the European debt crisis, a prolonged recession in the U.S., or a 
meaningful slowdown in China’s economic growth. 

46

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

Diversification of Portfolio
Total advances based on location of security.

Figure 3 – geograPhical diSTribuTion oF loanS (1) 
(October 31, 2010 in brackets)

British Columbia (33%)

Manitoba (3%)

46%

33%

6%

3%

12%

Alberta (48%)

Saskatchewan (6%)

Other (10%)

(1)   Includes letters of credit.

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

Table 8 – ToTal advanceS baSed on induSTry SecTor (1) 
(% at October 31)

Real estate operations

Construction
Consumer loans and residential mortgages (2)

Hotel/motel

Health and social services

Transportation and storage

Finance and insurance

Oil and gas production

Manufacturing

Retail trade

Oil and gas service

Wholesale trade

Other services

Logging/forestry

All other

total

2011

 22%

 19 

 15 

2010

 22%

 20 

 16 

 6 

 5 

 5 

 5 

 3 

 3 

 3 

 2 

 2 

 2 

 1 

 7 

 5 

 6 

 5 

 4 

 3 

 3 

 3 

 2 

 2 

 1 

 1 

 7 

 100%

 100%

(1)  Table is based on the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) codes.
(2)  Residential mortgages in this table include only single-family properties.

The loan portfolio is focused on areas of demonstrated lending 
expertise, while concentrations measured by geographic area 
and industry sector are managed within specified tolerance 
levels. The portfolio is well diversified with a mix of commercial 
and personal business. Heavy equipment financing is primarily 
sourced within branches or through stand-alone equipment 
financing centres, while small- and mid-sized leases are offered 

across Canada through National Leasing. Oil and gas production 
lending is conducted by specialists located in Calgary. Real estate 
specialists are established in the major centres of Edmonton, 
Calgary and Vancouver. Optimum Mortgage maintains centralized 
administration based in Edmonton and sources residential 
mortgages throughout Western Canada and select regions of 
Ontario through an established network of mortgage brokers. 

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

47

 
Outlook for Diversification of Portfolio 
Solid loan growth is expected to continue across all lending 
sectors and portfolio diversification by geography will likely 
remain relatively consistent with October 31, 2011. The 
proportion of total loans in general commercial mortgages 

could reduce slightly in 2012, reflecting increased competition 
and comparatively faster growth in other areas such as oil 
and gas production loans, general commercial loans and 
equipment financing.

credit Quality

Highlights of 2011
•   Credit quality improved significantly and remained within 

expectations. 

•   The dollar level of gross impaired loans decreased $46.2 million 

or 32% from the prior year. 

•   The provision for credit losses was $22.2 million and represented 
20 basis points of average loans, the low end of the 2011 target 
range of 20 to 25 basis points of average loans.

•  Gross impaired loans measured as a percentage of total loans 
represented 79 basis points, compared to 135 basis points one 
year ago.

impaired loans
As shown in Table 9, gross impaired loans totaled $97.0 million 
and represented 0.79% of outstanding loans, compared to 
$143.2 million, or 1.35% of total loans last year. The ten largest 
accounts classified as impaired, measured by dollars outstanding, 
represented approximately 48% of total gross impaired loans at 
quarter end, down from 56% a year earlier. New formations of 
impaired loans totaled $94.6 million, compared to $165.8 million 
last year and $158.1 million in 2009. While the trends are positive, 

Table 9 – change in groSS imPaired loanS 
($ thousands)

management expects the dollar level of gross impaired loans will 
fluctuate from the current level until global uncertainties subside 
and overall economic conditions strengthen further. The dollar 
level of gross impaired loans fluctuates as loans become impaired 
and are subsequently resolved and does not directly reflect the 
dollar value of expected write-offs given the tangible security held 
against the Bank’s lending positions.

Change from 2010

Gross impaired loans, beginning of period

New formations
Reductions, impaired accounts paid down
or returned to performing status

Write-offs

Total, end of period (1)

Balance of the ten largest impaired accounts
Total number of accounts classified as impaired (2)
Total number of accounts classified as impaired  

under $1 million

Gross impaired loans as a percentage of total loans (3)

$ 

$ 

$ 

2011 
143,207 
 94,601 

 (108,747)
 (32,074)
96,987 

46,884 
 153 

$ 

$ 

$ 

2010 
137,944 
 165,833 

 (135,971)
 (24,599)
143,207 

79,721 
 189 

$ 

$ 

$ 

2009 
91,636 
 158,129 

 (97,979)
 (13,842)
137,944 

76,101 
 224 

$ 

$ 

$ 

 137 

 0.79% 

 163 

 1.35% 

 199 

 1.49% 

$
5,263 
 (71,232)

 27,224 
 (7,475)
(46,220)

(32,837)
 (36)

 (26)

 – 

%

 4 
 (43)

 (20)
 30 
 (32)

 (41)
 (19)

 (16)

 (56) bp (4)

(1)  Gross impaired loans includes foreclosed assets held for sale with a carrying value of $3,241 (2010 – $867).
(2)  Total number of accounts excludes National Leasing accounts. 
(3)  Total loans do not include an allocation for credit losses or deferred revenue and premiums.
(4)  bp – basis point change.

48

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

The level of gross impaired loans decreased compared to the 
prior two years reflecting the ongoing resolution of impaired 
accounts and improved economic conditions. The Bank’s ability 
over the past three years to manage a much higher level of 
gross impaired loans with relatively consistent loss experience 
demonstrates the benefits of CWB’s secured lending practices, 
as well as the ongoing success of loan realization efforts and 
work-out programs. The current estimates of expected write-
offs for existing loans classified as impaired are reflected in the 
specific provisions for credit losses, which totaled $10.4 million 
at year end, compared to $19.0 million a year earlier. The Bank 
establishes its current estimates of expected write-offs through 
detailed analyses of both the overall quality and ultimate 
marketability of the security held against impaired accounts. 
In addition to the foregoing explanation, comparatively higher 
write-offs in 2011 and, in part, the lower level of 2011 specific 
provisions for credit losses, reflect a change in the Bank’s internal 
process where loans are now written off in the quarter that the 
finalized loss is determined. Under the previous internal process, 
loans were written off in the quarter following when the finalized 
loss was determined. Consequently, the reported amount of 

2011 write-offs reflects five quarters of finalized losses. This is 
a change in timing only and is expected to improve both data 
quality and efficiency. 

The 2011 provision for credit losses in dollar terms of $22.2 
million increased 9% ($1.8 million) over the previous year and 
represented 20 basis points of average loans, compared to 21 
basis points in 2010. The slightly lower provision when measured 
against average loans reflects a combination of very strong 
2011 loan growth and overall improved credit quality. At October 
31, 2011, gross impaired loans exceeded the total allowance 
for credit losses by $26.2 million, representing 21 basis points 
(2010 – 62 basis points) of net loans outstanding (see Figure 4). 
In the five years prior to fiscal 2008, a relatively consistent dollar 
provision for credit losses together with an exceptionally low 
level of impaired loans resulted in the total allowance for credit 
losses exceeding gross impaired loans. The general allowance 
represented 50 basis points of risk-weighted assets at year end 
(2010 – 57 basis points). The allowance for credit losses as a 
percentage of gross impaired loans (coverage ratio) was 73%,  
up from 55% in 2010. 

Figure 4 – neT imPaired loanS aS a PercenTage oF neT loanS ouTSTanding

2011

2010

2009

2008

0.21%

0.19%

0.62%

0.68%

-0.57%

-0.75%

-0.68%

-0.36%

-0.36%

2007

2006

2005

2004

2003

2002

0.13%

The overall loan 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 by a specialized team with 
regular quarterly, or more frequent, reviews of each loan and its 
realization plan.

outlook for impaired loans 
Overall credit quality is expected to remain satisfactory in 
view of management’s current economic outlook and actual 
losses should be within CWB’s range of acceptable levels. The 
level of gross impaired loans has returned to more normal 

levels, but is expected to continue to fluctuate from this point. 
Lending exposures will continue to be closely monitored and 
management remains confident in the strength, diversity and 
underwriting structure of the overall loan portfolio. 

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

49

Allowance for credit losses

Table 10 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 10 – allowance For crediT loSSeS 
($ thousands)

Specific Allowance
Commercial

Real estate

Equipment financing

Consumer and personal

general Allowance

total

(1)  Recoveries in 2011 totaled $2,062 (2010 – $600).

$ 

2011

Opening

Balance

2,655 

 4,880 

 10,215 

 1,288 

 19,038 

 59,603 

Provision

for Credit

Losses

Write–Offs,

net of

Recoveries (1)

$ 

6,170 

 8,369 

 4,762 

 2,052 

 21,353 

 826 

$ 

(7,456)

$ 

 (10,733)

 (9,656)

 (2,167)

 (30,012)

 – 

$ 

78,641 

$ 

22,179 

$ 

(30,012)

$ 

2011

Ending

Balance

1,369 

 2,516 

 5,321 

 1,173 

 10,379 

 60,429 

70,808 

The allowance for credit losses is maintained to absorb both 
identified and unidentified losses in the loan portfolio and, at 
October 31, 2011, consisted of $10.4 million of specific allowances 
and $60.4 million in the general allowance for credit losses. Specific 
allowances include the accumulated allowances for losses required 
on identified impaired accounts to reduce the carrying value of 
those loans to their estimated realizable amount. The general 
allowance for credit risk includes allowances for losses inherent in 
the portfolio that are not presently identifiable on an account-by-
account basis. The general allowance at year end represented 49 
basis points of gross outstanding loans (2010 – 56 basis points) 
and 50 basis points of risk-weighted assets (2010 – 57 basis 
points). An assessment of the adequacy of the general allowance 
is conducted quarterly and measured against the three-, five- and 
ten-year loan loss averages. In addition, a method of applying a 
progressive (increasing with higher risk) loss ratio range against 

groups of loans with a common risk rating is utilized to test the 
adequacy of the general allowance. The dollar level of the general 
allowance increased in four of the past five years as the provision 
for credit losses exceeded the amount allocated to specific credits. 
The exception was 2010 when challenging economic conditions 
contributed to a decrease in the general allowance. 

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.  
At October 31, 2011, the general allowance for credit losses met  
all of management’s tests of adequacy.

outlook for Allowance for credit losses
Specific allowances will continue to be determined on an 
account-by-account basis and reviewed at least quarterly. 
The general allowance is expected to fluctuate to account for 
portfolio growth, lower levels of specific allowances in strong 
economic times and higher levels of specific allowances in 
weaker economic times. Based on management’s current outlook 
for credit performance, actual historical loss experience and 
results from stress testing of the portfolio, the existing level of 

the general allowance is deemed sufficient to mitigate losses 
inherent in the portfolio that are not presently identifiable.

A new more robust methodology has been developed to estimate 
the adequacy of the collective (i.e. general) allowance for credit 
losses under IFRS. No material change is expected regarding the 
amount of the allowance. However, the new methodology does 
have potential to increase the quarterly volatility of the provision 
for credit losses. 

50

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

 
Provision for credit losses
The provision for credit losses represented 20 basis points of 
average loans in 2011 (see Table 11), an increase from both the 
three-year average of 19 basis points and the five-year average 
of 17 basis points. The increase in the provision as a percentage 
of average loans over the past two years reflects both the 
characteristics of National Leasing’s portfolio and less robust 
economic conditions compared to earlier years. Net new specific 
provisions represented 19 basis points of average loans in 2011. 

These results compare to the three-, five- and ten-year trends 
when the net new specific provisions for credit losses averaged 19, 
14 and 13 basis points of average loans, respectively. The Bank has 
a long history of strong credit quality and low loan losses, both of 
which compare very favourably to the Canadian banking industry. 
External factors that may impact Western Canada and the sectors 
in which the Bank’s customers operate are continually analyzed.

Table 11 – ProviSion For crediT loSSeS 
($ thousands)

Provision for credit losses (1)
Net new specific provisions (net of recoveries) (2)

General allowance

Coverage ratio (3)

2011

 0.20%

 0.19 

2010

 0.21% 

 0.27 

2009

 0.15% 

 0.14 

2008

 0.15% 

 0.09 

2007

 0.16%

 0.04 

$  60,429 

$ 

59,603 

$ 

61,153 

$ 

60,527 

$ 

55,608 

 73% 

 55% 

 55% 

 82% 

 299%

(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 the Provision for credit losses
The provision for credit losses in 2012 is expected to be 20 to 25 
basis points of average loans, consistent with the target range 
established for 2011. The expected provision reflects the Bank’s 
current assessment based on assumptions about the economic 
outlook, expected loan growth, the overall quality of the portfolio 

and its underlying security, and the adequacy of the general 
allowance for credit losses. This assessment is ongoing and 
the Bank’s updated expectations are communicated no less 
than quarterly.

Deposits

Highlights of 2011
•  Personal deposits, which represent an important part of the 

•  Obtained a credit rating on deposits and senior debt from  

Bank’s lower cost core funding, increased 14%.

DBRS Limited of A (low) with a stable outlook. 

•  Business and government deposits increased 12%. 

•  Completed a $250 million offering of senior deposit notes 

•  Branch and trust generated demand and notice deposits 

increased 13%.

•  Branch and trust generated deposits were 58% of total 

deposits, down from 61% a year earlier, mainly reflecting 
growth in fixed rate term deposits raised through the deposit 
broker network to help fund very strong loan growth. 

representing the Bank’s first issue of floating rate senior debt  
in the capital markets.

•  Began offering Valiant deposits through CWB branches.

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

51

 
Table 12 – dePoSiTS 
($ thousands)

Personal

Business and government

Capital markets

Deposit-taking institutions
Deposit from CWB Capital Trust (1)

Total Deposits

% of Total

Personal

Business and government

Capital markets

Deposit-taking institutions
Deposit from CWB Capital Trust (1)

Total Deposits

% of Total

Demand

notice

term

2011

total

$ 

30,440 

$  2,086,231 

$  6,229,158 

$  8,345,829 

 552,827 

 1,321,359 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 1,916,674 

 250,000 

 8,000 

 105,000 

 3,790,860 

 250,000 

 8,000 

 105,000 

% of

total

 67%

 30 

 2 

 – 

 1 

$ 

583,267 

$  3,407,590 

$  8,508,832 

$ 12,499,689 

 100%

5%

27%

68%

100%

Demand

Notice

Term

2010

Total

$ 

23,308 

$ 

1,840,026 

$ 

5,462,231 

$ 

7,325,565 

 507,300 

 1,159,573 

 1,713,329 

 3,380,202 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 2,000 

 105,000 

 – 

 2,000 

 105,000 

% of

Total

 68%

 31 

 – 

 – 

 1 

$ 

530,608 

$ 

2,999,599 

$ 

7,282,560 

$  10,812,767 

 100%

5%

28%

67%

100%

(1)  The senior deposit note of $105 million issued to Canadian Western Bank Capital Trust (CWB Capital Trust) is reflected as a deposit payable on a fixed date. This senior deposit note bears interest at an annual 
rate of 6.199% until December 31, 2016 and, thereafter, at the CDOR 180-day Bankers’ Acceptance Rate plus 2.55%. This note is redeemable at the Bank’s option, in whole or in part, on and after December 
31, 2011, or earlier in certain specified circumstances, both subject to the approval of OSFI. Each one thousand dollars of WesTS note principal is convertible at any time into 40 non-cumulative redeemable 
CWB First Preferred Shares Series 1 of the Bank at the option of CWB Capital Trust. CWB Capital Trust will exercise this conversion right in circumstances in which holders of WesTS exercise their holder 
exchange right. See the Capital Management discussion of this MD&A or Note 15 to the consolidated financial statements for more information on WesTS and CWB Capital Trust.

Total deposits at year end of $12,500 million increased 16% 
($1,687 million) over 2010 reflecting, 14% ($1,020 million) growth 
in personal deposits, 12% ($411 million) growth in business and 
government deposits, and a $250 million issuance of senior deposit 
notes representing the Bank’s first issue of floating rate senior 
debt in the capital markets. Consistent with the Bank’s commercial 

focus, a considerable portion of branch deposits are generated 
from corporate clients that tend to hold larger balances compared 
to personal retail clients (See the Liquidity Management section of 
this MD&A). Subsequent to year end, $150 million of senior deposit 
notes were issued to a broad group of investors. 

Table 13 – dePoSiTS by Source 
(as a percentage of total deposits at October 31)

Branches

Deposit brokers

Capital markets

Deposit from CWB Capital Trust

Corporate wholesale

total

2011

 58%

 39 

 2 

 1 

 – 

2010

 61%

 38 

 – 

 1 

 – 

2009

 64%

 34 

 – 

 1 

 1 

2008

 63%

 34 

 – 

 1 

 2 

2007

 64%

 33 

 – 

 1 

 2 

 100%

 100%

 100%

 100%

 100%

Deposits are primarily generated from the branch network (including 
CWT and Valiant) and a deposit broker network. Increasing the 
level of retail deposits is an ongoing focus as success in this area 
provides the most reliable and stable source of funding. CWT raises 
deposits through notice accounts (comprised primarily of cash 
balances held in self-directed registered accounts), corporate trust 
deposits and through the Bank’s branch network, in addition to 
deposits generated through the deposit broker network. Valiant’s 
status as a federal deposit-taking institution adds a third Canada 
Deposit Insurance Corporation (CDIC) licence and provides an 
additional channel to raise insured deposits. Valiant deposits are 
currently offered only in CWB branches. Management is optimistic 

about the potential for Canadian Direct Financial® to provide 
an enhanced source of funding in the future. Canadian Direct 
Financial® currently offers deposits and registered saving products 
via the Internet to customers in all provinces and territories except 
Quebec. Insured deposits raised through deposit brokers remain 
a valued funding source. Although these funds are subject to 
commissions, this cost is countered by a reduced dependence on 
a more extensive branch network and the benefit of generating 
insured fixed term retail deposits over a wide geographic base. 
Corporate wholesale deposits represent larger deposits raised 
through CWB’s corporate office rather than the branch network. 

52

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

 
Growth in total branch-raised deposits, which includes deposits 
raised through trust operations, was 9% in 2011. The demand and 
notice component within branch-raised deposits increased 13% 
and comprised 32% of total deposits at year end, down from 33% 
the previous year. Branch-raised deposits comprised 58% of total 
deposits, compared to 61% in the previous year, with the decrease 
reflecting growth in fixed rate term deposits raised through the 

deposit broker network and $250 million of senior deposit notes 
raised in the debt capital markets. The level of growth in demand 
and notice deposits reflects ongoing execution of strategies to 
further enhance and diversify the Bank’s core funding sources as 
well as CWT’s success in generating deposits through its fiduciary 
trust business.

outlook for Deposits
A strategic focus on increasing branch-raised deposits (including 
CWT and Valiant) will continue in 2012, with emphasis on the 
demand and notice component, which is often lower cost and 
provides associated transactional fee income. CWB’s expanded 
market presence, which includes the opening of three new full-
service branches since September 2010, also supports objectives 
to generate branch-raised deposits. The Bank’s deposit broker 
network remains a valued source for raising insured fixed term 
retail deposits and has proven to be an extremely effective 
and efficient way to access funding and liquidity over a wide 

geographic base. Selectively utilizing the debt capital markets 
is also part of management’s strategy to further diversify 
the Bank’s funding base over time. Provided costs remain 
satisfactory, National Leasing is planning to utilize securitization 
channels for a portion of its funding requirements in 2012 to 
broaden overall funding sources. Management continues to 
evaluate the benefits of using loan securitization and/or whole 
loan sales as additional sources of funding for certain other 
types of portfolios, most notably residential mortgages.

other Assets and other liabilities
At October 31, 2011, other assets totaled $313 million  
(2010 – $329 million). The decrease from last year primarily 
reflects a receivable outstanding at October 31, 2010 related 
to redemptions of securities that were not settled until the 
first business day in November of that year. Net property and 
equipment as shown on the balance sheet increased $7 million, 
mainly due to ongoing investment in both physical infrastructure 
and technology. Insurance related other assets were $57 million 
(2010 – $60 million) and consisted primarily of instalment 
premiums receivable as well as the reinsurers’ share of unpaid 

liquidity Management

Highlights of 2011
•  Maintained a strong liquidity position and conservative 

investment profile.

•  For much of the year, relative stability in Canadian capital 
markets allowed for a reduction in liquid assets to more 
normal levels. Liquidity was augmented in the fourth quarter 
of the year due to potential market disruptions related to the 
European debt crisis. 

claims. Other assets at October 31, 2011 included goodwill and 
intangible assets of $38 million and $37 million, respectively.

Other liabilities totaled $434 million at October 31, 2011 (2010 – 
$426 million). Insurance related other liabilities were $149 million 
(2010 – $149 million) and consisted primarily of provisions for 
unpaid claims and adjustment expenses and unearned premiums. 
Other liabilities at October 31, 2011 also include a $31 million 
provision for contingent consideration and $44 million of other 
liabilities related to National Leasing. 

•  In November 2010, received a credit rating from DBRS Limited 
on senior debt/deposits A (low) and subordinated debentures 
BBB (high); both ratings were issued indicating a stable 
trend. The ratings and trend were confirmed in October 2011. 
Maintaining this competitive credit rating is important for the 
Bank’s strategies to selectively utilize the debt capital markets 
as a supplementary source of cost-effective funding.

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

53

A schedule outlining the consolidated securities portfolio at 
October 31, 2011 is provided in Note 4 to the consolidated financial 
statements. A conservative investment profile is maintained 
by ensuring:

CWB has no direct credit exposure to sovereign debt outside of 
Canada. CWB also has no direct exposure to any credit default 
swaps, collateralized debt obligations, non-bank sponsored 
asset-backed commercial paper or monoline insurers.

•  all investments are high quality and include government debt 
securities, short-term money market instruments, preferred 
shares and other marketable securities;

•  specific investment criteria and procedures are in place to 

manage the securities portfolio;

•  regular review, monitoring and approval of investment policies 

is completed by management’s Asset Liability Committee 
(ALCO); and,

•  quarterly reporting to the Board of Directors (the Board) on the 
composition of the securities portfolio, further supported by the 
Board’s annual review and approval.

Table 14 – liquid aSSeTS  
($ thousands)

The Bank’s liquidity management is a comprehensive process  
that includes, but is not limited to:

•  monitoring of liquidity reserve levels;

•  operating micro and macro scenario stress testing;

•  maintenance of a short duration liquidity portfolio;

•  monitoring the credit profile of the liquidity portfolio;

•  monitoring deposit behaviour; and,

•  ongoing market surveillance.

Cash and non-interest bearing deposits with financial institutions

Deposits with regulated financial institutions

Cheques and other items in transit

total cash Resources
Securities purchased under resale agreement

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 more than 1 year

Preferred shares

Common shares

Other debt securities

total Securities Purchased or Sold 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

2011

$ 

73,318 

$ 

 233,964 

 5,053 

 312,335 

 – 

 384,721 

 173,723 

 465,943 

 497,130 

 100,642 

 303,545 

$ 

Change

from

2010

64,353 

 64,966 

 (4,928)

 124,391 

 (177,954)

 (49,662)

 44,924 

 375,953 

 (14,098)

 11,399 

 47,001 

2010

8,965 

 168,998 

 9,981 

 187,944 

 177,954 

 434,383 

 128,799 

 89,990 

 511,228 

 89,243 

 256,544 

1,925,704 

$  2,238,039 
$  14,772,035 

1,688,141 

237,563 

$ 
1,876,085 
$  12,701,691 

$ 
361,954 
$  2,070,344 

 15%

 15%

 –%

$  12,499,689 

$  10,812,767 

$  1,686,922 

 18%

 17%

 1%

As shown in Table 14, liquid assets comprised of cash, interbank 
deposits, securities purchased under resale agreements and 
marketable securities totaled $2,238 million at October 31, 2011, 
an increase of $362 million compared to a year earlier. The Bank 
carried more liquidity at year end than it would in a more normal 
market environment with reduced global economic uncertainties. 
Liquid assets represented 15% (2010 – 15%) of total assets and 
18% (2010 – 17%) of total deposit liabilities at year end.

Compared to October 31, 2010, the Bank shifted the composition 
of total liquid assets in response to the current interest rate 
environment and elevated market risks attributed to the European 
debt crisis. This strategy resulted in significant increases in the 
balance of total cash resources and government securities with 

maturities greater than one year. Highlights of the composition of 
liquid assets at October 31, 2011 are as follows:

•  maturities within one year decreased to 40% (2010 – 49%) of 

liquid assets, or $892 million (2010 – $921 million);

•  Government of Canada, provincial and municipal debt securities 

increased to 46% (2010 – 35%) of liquid assets;

•  deposits with regulated financial institutions, including Bankers’ 

Acceptances, increased to 14% (2010 – 9%) of liquid assets;

•  preferred shares decreased to 22% (2010 – 27%) of liquid 

assets; and,

•  other marketable securities remained constant at 18% of 

liquid assets.

54

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

 
 
 
When applicable, securities purchased under resale agreements 
are included in liquid assets. These represent short-term loans 
to securities dealers that require subsequent repurchase of the 
securities given as collateral, typically within a few days. CWB may 
also enter into reverse resale agreements, which are included in 
other liabilities. These are short-term advances from securities 
dealers, typically no more than a few days in duration, and require 
the bank to repurchase the securities. Collateral securities are 
comprised of government or other high quality liquid securities. 
Short-term uncommitted and committed 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; this was confirmed 

in the fourth quarter of 2011 with the sale of a relatively small 
portfolio of residential mortgages by Optimum Mortgage. Total 
liquid assets contained no securities purchased under resale 
agreements at October 31, 2011. This compares to October 31, 
2010 when securities purchased under resale agreements totaled 
$178 million. These agreements are primarily used for cash 
management purposes.

A significant portion of branch-generated deposits comes from 
corporate clients that tend to hold larger balances that are typically 
subject to greater fluctuations compared to deposits generated 
from personal retail clients.

The primary source of incremental new funding is the issuance of 
deposit instruments.

 A summary of outstanding deposits by contractual maturity date is presented in Tables 15 and 16.

Table 15 – dePoSiT maTuriTieS wiThin one year 
($ millions)

October 31, 2011

Demand deposits

Notice deposits

Deposits payable on a fixed date

total

October 31, 2010 Total

Table 16 – ToTal dePoSiT maTuriTieS 
($ millions)

October 31, 2011

Demand deposits

Notice deposits

Deposits payable on a fixed date

Note to CWB Capital Trust

total

October 31, 2010 Total

within 

1 year

$ 

583 

$ 

 3,408 

 4,814 

 – 

8,805 

7,417 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

1 to 2 

years

– 

 – 

 2,046 

 – 

2,046 

1,555 

2 to 3

years

– 

 – 

 893 

 – 

893 

796 

$ 

$ 

$ 

within

1 Month

1 to 3

Months

3 Months

cumulative

to 1 year within 1 year

$ 

583 

$ 

 3,408 

 893 

4,884 

4,574 

3 to 4

years

– 

 – 

 376 

 – 

376 

557 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

– 

 – 

 1,009 

1,009 

892 

$ 

$ 

$ 

– 

 – 

 2,912 

2,912 

1,951 

4 to 5

years

More than

5 years

– 

 – 

 275 

 – 

275 

383 

$ 

$ 

$ 

– 

 – 

 – 

 105 

105 

105 

$ 

583 

$ 

$ 

$ 

 3,408 

 4,814 

8,805 

7,417 

total

583 

 3,408 

 8,404 

 105 

$  12,500 

$ 

10,813 

A breakdown of deposits by source is provided in Table 13.  
Target limits by source have been established as part of the overall 
liquidity policy and are monitored to ensure an acceptable level 
of funding diversification is maintained. The Bank continues to 
aggressively pursue deposits through the branch network as its 
core funding source. At the same time, the total dollar value of 

broker-generated deposits is expected to increase to support asset 
growth or when higher levels of liquidity are required. Insured 
deposits raised through deposit brokers remain a highly effective 
and valued funding source. At October 31, 2011, CWT’s notice 
account balances totaled $1,124 million (2010 – $993 million), 
reflecting ongoing business and client growth.

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

55

 
 
 
 
In addition to deposit liabilities, CWB has subordinated debentures outstanding as presented in the table below:

Table 17 – SubordinaTed debenTureS ouTSTanding 
($ thousands)

Interest

Rate
4.389% (1)
5.070% (2)
5.571% (3)
5.950% (4)
5.426% (5)

total

 Maturity 

 Date 

 Earliest Date 

 Redeemable 

 by CWB at Par 

2011 

 November 30, 2020 

November 30, 2015

$ 

300,000 

$ 

 March 21, 2017 

 March 21, 2022 

 June 27, 2018 

 March 22, 2012 

 March 22, 2017 

 June 28, 2013 

 November 21, 2015 

 November 22, 2010 

 120,000 

 75,000 

 50,000 

 – 

$ 

545,000 

$ 

2010 

– 

 120,000 

 75,000 

 50,000 

 70,000 

315,000 

(1)  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 193 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 155 basis points. Of the $125,000 debentures issued, $5,000 are held by Canadian Direct Insurance Incorporated, a wholly owned subsidiary, and have been eliminated on 
consolidation.

(3)  These conventional debentures have a 15-year term with a fixed interest rate for the first 10 years. Thereafter, the interest rate will be reset quarterly at the Canadian dollar CDOR 90-day Bankers’ 

Acceptance rate plus 180 basis points.

(4)  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 302 basis points. 

(5)  These conventional debentures had a 10-year term with a fixed interest rate for the first five years. Thereafter, the interest rate would have reset quarterly at the Canadian dollar CDOR 90-day Bankers’ 

Acceptance rate plus 180 basis points. On November 22, 2010, these conventional debentures were redeemed by the Bank.

outlook for liquidity Management 
The Bank continues to refine its methodologies for measuring 
and monitoring liquidity risk. Use of dynamic scenario analysis 
has allows for a reduction in the level of liquid asset coverage 
while continuing to maintain prudent liquidity standards. In view 
of elevated market risks mainly attributed to the European debt 
crisis, the composition of liquid assets will continue to include a 
higher balance of cash resources and low yielding government 
securities compared to what would be held in a more normal 
market environment. This strategy has a negative impact on net 
interest margin but is considered appropriate in response to 
increased market uncertainties. 

The Bank for International Settlements (BIS) finalized liquidity 
proposals initially described in its document “International 
Framework for Liquidity Risk, Measurement, Standards and 
Monitoring.” The proposals as outlined remain subject to 
significant transition and monitoring activities, and revisions are 
expected. The new liquidity coverage ratio (LCR) and net stable 
funding ratio (NSFR) are presently subject to an observation 
period and will include a review clause to address any unintended 
consequences. It is too early to tell how this framework will 
impact CWB. BIS is currently expected to introduce the LCR 
effective January 1, 2015 and the NSFR effective January 1, 2018.

contractual obligations
In addition to the obligations related to deposits and subordinated debentures discussed in the Deposits and Liquidity Management  
sections of this MD&A, as well as Notes 14, 18, 21 and 29 of the consolidated financial statements, the following contractual obligations 
are outstanding at October 31, 2011.

Table 18 – conTracTual obligaTionS 
($ thousands)

Lease commitments

Purchase obligations for capital expenditures

october 31, 2011
October 31, 2010

within 1 
year

10,932 

 1,267 

12,199 
8,975 

$ 

$ 
$ 

$ 

$ 
$ 

1 to 3
years

21,760 

 147 

21,907 
16,454 

$ 

$ 
$ 

4 to 5
years

18,580 

 – 

18,580 
15,173 

More than
5 years

$ 

$ 
$ 

23,745 

 – 

23,745 
19,636 

$ 

$ 
$ 

total

75,017 

 1,414 

76,431 
60,238 

56

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

capital Management

Highlights of 2011
•  Maintained strong Tier 1 and total capital adequacy ratios  

of 11.1% and 15.4%, respectively. 

•  Supported very strong loan growth while maintaining the ratio 
of tangible common equity to risk-weighted assets at 8.6%, up 
from 8.5%.

•  Issued $300 million and redeemed $70 million of 

subordinated debentures.

•  Cash dividends of $0.54 per share paid to common 

shareholders, up 23%.

•  Purchased and canceled one million warrants through an 

approved Normal Course Issuer Bid (NCIB); on August 31, 2011, 
redeemed all 4.2 million outstanding warrants (TSX: CWB.WT) 
for cash of $72.5 million.

•  On October 31, 2011, announced an approved NCIB for  

the Bank to purchase, for cancelation, up to 2,261,434 common 
shares (purchases under the NCIB were eligible to begin on 
November 2, 2011 and will end no later than November 1, 2012).

Subsequent Highlights
•  In December 2011, the Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.15 per common share, an increase of 7% ($0.01) 
over the previous quarterly cash dividend and 15% ($0.02 per share) over the quarterly cash dividend declared one year earlier. The 
Board of Directors also declared a cash dividend of $0.453125 per Series 3 Preferred Share.

Capital funds are managed in accordance with policies and 
plans that are regularly reviewed and approved by the Board  
of Directors. Capital management takes into account forecasted 
capital needs with consideration of anticipated profitability, asset 
growth, market and economic conditions, regulatory changes 
and dividends. The overriding goal is to remain well capitalized 
in order to protect customer deposits and provide capacity for 
internally generated growth and strategic opportunities that 
do not otherwise require accessing the capital markets, all 
while providing a satisfactory return for common shareholders. 
Consistent with Basel II guidelines described below, CWB has 
implemented an Internal Capital Adequacy Assessment Process 
(ICAAP) to ensure capital levels remain adequate in relation to 
current and anticipated future risks.

The Bank provides a share incentive plan 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 dividends. Note 20 to the consolidated financial 
statements details the number of options outstanding, the 
weighted average exercise price and the amounts exercisable 
at year end. Holders of CWB’s common shares and holders of 
any other class of shares deemed eligible by the Bank’s Board 
of Directors are offered the choice to direct cash dividends paid 
toward the purchase of common shares through a dividend 
reinvestment plan (DRIP). Further details regarding the Bank’s 
DRIP are available on the Bank’s website at www.cwbankgroup.
com/investor_relations. 

Basel ii capital Adequacy Accord
The Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions Canada 
(OSFI) currently requires banks to measure capital adequacy in 
accordance with published guidelines commonly referred to as 
Basel II for determining risk-adjusted capital and risk-weighted 
assets, including off-balance sheet commitments. CWB currently 
uses the Standardized Approach under Basel II to calculate 
risk-weighted assets for both credit and operational risk. The 
Standardized Approach for credit risk applies a weighting of 0% 
to 150% based on the deemed credit risk for each type of asset. 
As an example, a loan that is fully insured by Canada Mortgage 
and Housing Corporation (CMHC) is applied a risk weighting 
of 0% as the Bank’s risk of loss is nil, while typical 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 CWB’s ICAAP thresholds and standards for 
Canadian financial institutions as established by OSFI. Off-
balance sheet items, such as the notional amount of derivatives 
and some credit commitments, are included in the calculation 
of risk-weighted assets and both the credit risk equivalent and 
the risk-weighted calculations are prescribed by OSFI. National 
Leasing’s off-balance sheet securitized asset portfolio is reflected 
in a deduction from both Tier 1 and total capital. As Canadian 
Direct is subject to separate OSFI capital requirements specific 
to insurance companies, the Bank’s investment in this company 
is deducted from total capital and Canadian Direct’s assets are 
excluded from the calculation of risk-weighted assets. 

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

57

 
 
Current 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, OSFI has established 
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 primarily comprised of common shareholders’ 

equity, preferred shares and innovative capital, while Tier 2 capital 
primarily includes subordinated debentures and the general 
allowance for credit losses (to a prescribed regulatory maximum). 
Refer to Table 19 for additional details on CWB’s capital structure 
and regulatory capital ratios. 

The Bank complied with all internal and external capital 
requirements in 2011.

Table 19 – caPiTal STrucTure and baSel ii regulaTory raTioS aT year end 
($ thousands)

tier 1 capital

Retained earnings

Common shares

Preferred shares

Contributed surplus
Innovative capital instrument (1)

Non-controlling interest in subsidiary

Less goodwill of subsidiaries
Less securitization

total

tier 2 capital

General allowance for credit losses (Tier 2A) (2)
Accumulated unrealized gains on available-for-sale securities, net of tax (3)
Subordinated debentures (Tier 2B) (4)

total

Less investment in insurance subsidiary

Less securitization

total Regulatory capital
Regulatory Capital to Risk-Weighted Assets

Tier 1 capital

Tier 2 capital

Less investment in insurance subsidiary and securitization

total Regulatory capital Adequacy Ratio
Assets to Regulatory capital Multiple (5)

2011 

2010 

2010 

Change from

$ 

650,028 

$ 

614,710 

$ 

 408,014 

 209,750 

 21,884 

 105,000 

 225 

 (37,852)
 (6,583)

 279,352 

 209,750 

 21,291 

 105,000 

 180 

 (37,723)
 (8,880)

 1,350,466 

 1,183,680 

 60,429 

 1,509 

 545,000 

 606,938 

 (80,941)

 (6,583)

 59,603 

 16,119 

 315,000 

 390,722 

 (68,993)

 (8,880)

35,318 

 128,662 

 – 

 593 

 – 

 45 

 (129)
 2,297 

 166,786 

 826 

 (14,610)

 230,000 

 216,216 

 (11,948)

 2,297 

$  1,869,880 

$ 

1,496,529 

$ 

373,351 

 11.1%

 5.0 

 (0.7)

 15.4%

 7.9 

11.3%

 3.7 

 (0.7)

 14.3%

 8.5 

 (0.2)%

 1.3 

 – 

 1.1%

 (0.6)

(1)  The innovative capital instrument consists of CWB’s WesTS and may be included in Tier 1 capital to a maximum of 15% of net Tier 1 capital. Any excess innovative capital outstanding is included in Tier 

2B capital.

(2)  Banks are allowed to include their general allowance for credit losses up to a prescribed percentage of risk-weighted assets in Tier 2A capital. At October 31, 2011, the Bank’s general allowance 

represented 0.50% (2010 – 0.57%) of risk-weighted assets.

(3)  Accumulated other comprehensive income related to unrealized losses on certain available-for-sale equity securities, net of tax, reduces Tier 1 capital, while unrealized gains on certain available-for-

sale securities, net of tax, increases Tier 2 capital.

(4)  Tier 2B capital may be included in Tier 2 capital to a maximum of 50% of net Tier 1 capital. Any excess Tier 2B capital is included in capital as net Tier 1 capital increases. All subordinated debentures are 

currently included in Tier 2B capital.

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

58

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

Table 20 – riSk-weighTed aSSeTS 
($ thousands)

Corporate

Sovereign

Bank
Retail residential mortgages

Other retail

Excluding small business entities

Small business entities

Equity

Undrawn commitments

Operational risk

Other 

As at october 31, 2011
As at October 31, 2010

Table 21 – riSk-weighTed caTegory 
($ thousands)

cash,

Securities

and Resale

Agreements

loans

$  115,818  $  9,344,142 

$ 

 1,012,718 

 17,028 

 367,230 
 – 

 38,963 
 1,879,366 

 – 

 – 

 541,018 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 183,346 

 849,395 

 – 

 234,961 

 – 

 56,600 

2011

other

items

total

Risk–

weighted

Assets

– 

 – 

 – 
 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 56,443 

 293,383 

$ 9,459,960 

$ 9,051,686 

 1,029,746 

 406,193 
 1,879,366 

 183,346 

 849,395 

 541,018 

 234,961 

 56,443 

 349,983 

 15,440 

 151,042 
 655,470 

 133,753 

 648,935 

 344,301 

 229,788 

 705,542 

 224,954 

$ 2,036,784  $ 12,603,801 
$  10,778,761 
$  1,748,459 

$  349,826 
351,705 
$ 

$ 14,990,411 
$  12,878,925 

$ 12,160,911 
$  10,489,618 

2011

150% 

and

Corporate

Sovereign

Bank
Retail residential 
mortgages

Other retail

Excluding small  

business entities

Small business 

entities

Equity
Undrawn  

commitments

Operational risk

Other 

0%

20%

35%

50%

75%

100%

greater

Balance weighted

$ 

34,381  $ 

13,115  $ 

–  $  776,585  $ 

–  $ 8,586,092  $ 

49,787  $ 9,459,960  $ 9,051,686 

 952,548 

 77,198 

 – 

 312,080 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 10,973 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 83,140 

 – 

 – 

 1,029,746 

 15,440 

 406,193 

 151,042 

 378,758 

 – 

 1,194,624 

 – 

 274,531 

 31,453 

 – 

 1,879,366 

 655,470 

 184 

 7,983 

 2,562 

 3,902 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 245,897 

 – 

 – 

 118,795 

 5,252 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 174,117 

 49 

 1,013 

 183,346 

 133,753 

 788,548 

 49,662 

 4,721 

 849,395 

 648,935 

 – 

 295,121 

 20,694 

 214,267 

 – 

 – 

 541,018 

 344,301 

 234,961 

 229,788 

 – 

 – 

 56,443 

 56,443 

 705,542 

 8,129 

 217,807 

 – 

 349,983 

 224,954 

As at october 31, 2011 $ 1,487,228  $  665,427  $ 1,194,624  $  787,558  $ 1,266,019  $ 9,477,591  $  111,964  $ 14,990,411  $ 12,160,911 
527,016  $  900,345  $  8,251,862  $  139,046  $ 12,878,925  $ 10,489,618 
As at October 31, 2010 $  1,155,071  $  678,500  $  1,227,085  $ 

At as October 31, 2011, the Basel II Tier 1 capital adequacy ratio was 
11.1% (2010 – 11.3%). The total capital adequacy ratio was 15.4% 
(2010 – 14.3%). Tier 1 regulatory capital increased $167 million over 
2010, mainly resulting from:

•  earnings, net of common and preferred dividends, of $124 

million; 

•  common shares issued upon the exercise of warrants of $116 

million; partially offset by, 

•  total costs for the purchase of warrants for cancellation of 

$88 million.

Total regulatory capital increased $373 million over 2010, mainly 
resulting from the factors mentioned above and:

•  the issuance of $300 million and redemption of $70 million of 

subordinated debentures;

•  a decrease of $12 million in the deduction for investment in 

insurance subsidiary; partially offset by

•  a $15 million lower capital impact related to accumulated after-

tax unrealized gains on available-for-sale securities.

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

59

 
 
 
OSFI has publicly stated that all Canadian banks must comply with 
the Basel III standards and maintain minimum capital ratios of 7.0% 
tangible common equity Tier 1, 8.5% Tier 1 and 10.5% total capital 
by January 1, 2013. The only available transition is related to the 
10-year phase out of non-qualifying capital instruments. Pro forma 
Basel III calculations for CWB confirm that the Bank already complies 
with the new ratios owing to its very strong base of tangible 
common equity, as well as its relatively straightforward operations 
and composition of capital. Application of the proposed 2019 Basel 
III standards to the Bank’s financial position at October 31, 2011 
results in a 7.9% tangible common equity Tier 1 ratio, an 8.6% Tier 
1 ratio and a 12.8% total capital ratio. The foregoing estimates are 
based on the Bank’s current capital structure and composition of 
risk-weighted assets, and will change depending on management 
strategies, the composition of regulatory capital and financial 
performance in the future. Management will maintain its practice of 
prudent capital planning, which includes a comprehensive ICAAP. 

Basel iii capital Adequacy Accord
The Basel Committee on Banking Supervision of the BIS (the 
Committee) has published the Basel III rules text supporting more 
stringent global standards on capital adequacy and liquidity, and 
OSFI has confirmed its intent to implement the Basel III rules for 
Canadian banks. OSFI also issued guidance and advisories on 
its implementation plan for all Canadian financial institutions, 
including transition allowances and details about the treatment of 
non-viability contingent capital (NVCC). 

Significant capital changes most relevant to CWB include:

•  increased focus on tangible common equity;

•  all forms of non-common equity, such as conventional 

subordinated debentures and preferred shares, must be NVCC 
compliant. Compliant NVCC instruments include a clause that 
would require conversion to common equity in the event that 
OSFI deems the institution to be insolvent or a government is 
ready to inject a “bail out” payment;

•  innovative Tier 1 instruments, such as CWB’s WesTS, will no 

longer qualify;

•  an investment in an insurance subsidiary is no longer deducted 
from capital except for any amount that exceeds 15% of tangible 
common equity; and,

•  changes in the risk weighting or capital treatment for  
investments in the regulatory capital of other financial  
institutions.

outlook for capital Management
Management expects the Bank to maintain its strong capital 
position, which is particularly important in view of the future 
Basel III changes and elevated global uncertainties primarily 
related to the European debt crisis that could affect the economic 
outlook in CWB’s markets. The Bank’s strong capital ratios are 
currently well above the targeted ICAAP ranges, assuming 
a normal operating environment, and have the Bank well 
positioned to manage future unexpected events. The ongoing 
retention of earnings should support capital requirements 
associated with the anticipated achievement of the 2012 
minimum performance targets. Management continues to 
evaluate alternatives to deploy capital for the long-term benefit 
of CWB shareholders, which includes the potential for strategic 
acquisitions. 

management capabilities, and was also a preliminary step in the 
plan for the Bank’s possible transition to an Advanced Internal 
Ratings Based (AIRB) methodology for calculating risk-weighted 
assets. Although the potential implementation of an AIRB 
methodology is a few years away and requires the approval of 
OSFI, the eventual transition is expected to meaningfully enhance 
the data available to manage credit risk associated with the Bank’s 
growing loan portfolio. The transition would also likely reduce 
capital requirements for certain types of risk-weighted assets 
and provide additional capital flexibility for management to 
pursue accretive growth opportunities in the future. Management 
recently engaged a third-party consultant to help identify existing 
gaps and develop a road map for the Bank’s potential compliance 
with AIRB requirements. 

Additional strategies are under development to further optimize 
the Bank’s existing capital structure and the redemption of CWB’s 
warrants in 2011 reflects this focus. Implementation of the new 
loan origination system in all branches, completed in the third 
quarter of 2011, will enhance statistical tracking and portfolio 

The Bank’s target capital ratios under Basel III, including an 
appropriate capital buffer over and above the prescribed OSFI 
minimums, will be established through development of the 2012 
ICAAP. The transition to IFRS is not expected to have a material 
impact on the Bank’s regulatory capital ratios.

60

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

financial instruments and other instruments
As a financial institution, most of CWB’s balance sheet is comprised 
of financial instruments and the majority of net income results from 
gains, losses, income and expenses related to the same.

Financial instrument assets include cash resources, securities, 
securities purchased under resale agreements, loans and derivative 
financial instruments. Financial instrument liabilities include 
deposits, securities sold under repurchase agreements, derivative 
financial instruments and subordinated debentures.

The use of financial instruments exposes the Bank to credit,  
liquidity and market risk. A discussion of how these and other  
risks are managed can be found in the Risk Management section  
of this MD&A.

Further information on how the fair value of financial instruments 
is determined is included in the Financial Instruments Measured at 
Fair Value discussion in the Critical Accounting Estimates section of 
this MD&A.

Income and expenses are classified as to source, either securities 
or loans for income, and deposits or borrower funds for expense. 
Gains on the sale of securities, net, are shown separately in 
other income.

Derivative financial instruments
More detailed information on the nature of derivative financial  
instruments is shown in Note 12 to CWB’s consolidated financial  
statements. The notional amounts of derivative financial 
instruments are not reflected on the consolidated balance sheets.

Table 22 – derivaTive Financial inSTrumenTS 
($ thousands)

notional Amounts

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

total

2011

2010

$ 

$ 

19,400 
 6,384 
 – 
25,784 

$ 

$ 

47,550 
 57,032 
 500 
105,082 

Interest rate contracts are used as economic hedging devices to manage interest rate risk. The outstanding contracts mature between November 2012 and April 2014. 

(1) 
(2)  U.S. dollar foreign exchange contracts are used from time to time to manage the difference between U.S. dollar assets and liabilities. Forward foreign exchange contracts outstanding mature between 

November 2011 and April 2012.

(3)  The equity contract was used to offset the return paid to depositors on certain deposit products where the return was linked to a stock index.

The active use of interest rate contracts remains an integral 
component in managing the Bank’s short-term gap position; 
however, the volume of outstanding contracts (measured by the 
notional amount) continues to decrease. During 2010, CWB allowed 
outstanding interest rate swaps designated as cash flow hedges 
for interest rate risk to mature without replacement. This strategy 
positions CWB to benefit further in a period of increasing interest 
rates while maintaining interest rate risk within prudent policy 
guidelines. Derivative financial instruments are entered into only  

for the Bank’s own account and CWB 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, including an 
assessment of the credit worthiness of the counterparty. Policies 
regarding the use of derivative 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. 

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

61

 
Acquisitions
On February 1, 2010, the Bank acquired 100% of the outstanding 
common shares of National Leasing in exchange for $53 million 
in cash, 2,065,088 common shares of the Bank (equating to an 
equivalent dollar value of $43 million) and contingent consideration 
for a total cost of $127 million. Both the Bank and the vendors have 
the option to trigger payment of the contingent consideration no 
earlier than November 1, 2012. The final amount of the contingent 
consideration is not yet determinable and, under Canadian GAAP, 
any change would be recognized as an adjustment to goodwill 
in the period in which the contingency is resolved. Under IFRS, 
contingent consideration related to a business combination is 
accounted for as a financial liability and fair valued at the time 
of the acquisition. An adjustment of the liability to current fair 

Details of the fair values of assets and liabilities acquired are as follows:

Table 23 – aSSeTS and liabiliTieS acquired aT Fair value  
($ thousands)

Leases
Intangible assets

Goodwill

Retained interest in securitized assets

Long-term debt

Future income tax liabilities

Other items, net

net Assets Acquired

value is recorded through net income every period thereafter 
until settlement (refer to Future Changes in Accounting Policies in 
this MD&A for additional information on accounting for business 
combinations and contingent consideration under IFRS).

National Leasing is a commercial equipment leasing company 
headquartered in Winnipeg, Manitoba that specializes in small to 
mid-size transactions. The average size of each lease transaction  
has historically been approximately $20,000. The average size 
of each lease transaction since the acquisition has increased to 
approximately $25,000, and this upward trend could continue as 
a result of an expected shift in the allocation of National Leasing’s 
portfolio. The company has representation across Canada with the 
largest concentration of leases sourced in Ontario. 

$ 

$ 

322,512 
 40,708 

 27,937 

 19,109 

 (270,630)

 (10,611)

 (2,407)

126,618 

Intangible assets include customer relationships, computer 
software, non-competition agreements, lease administration 
contracts and trademarks. The trademarks were assigned an 
estimated value of $1.6 million and are not subject to amortization. 
National Leasing’s financial results, the goodwill and other 

intangible assets related to the acquisition are included in the 
banking and trust segment. The total amount of goodwill and 
intangible assets are not deductible for income tax purposes.  
The long-term debt was repaid immediately after the acquisition.

off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
Off-balance sheet items include assets under administration and 
assets under management. Total assets under administration, 
including both trust assets under administration and third-party 
service agreements for leases and residential mortgages, totaled 
$9,370 million at October 31, 2011, compared to $8,531 million 
one year ago. Assets under management held within Adroit 
Investment Management Ltd. were $816 million at year end, 
compared to $795 million last year. The gross amount of securitized 
assets at year end attributed to National Leasing was $91 million, 
compared to $199 million one year ago. On the adoption of IFRS in 
fiscal 2012, securitized assets will be reported on-balance sheet. 

Other off-balance sheet items are comprised of standard industry 
credit instruments (guarantees, standby letters of credit and 
commitments to extend credit), and deposit instruments issued by 
the non-consolidated variable interest entity. CWB does not utilize, 
nor does it have exposure to, collateralized debt obligations or credit 
default swaps. For additional information regarding off-balance 
sheet items, refer to Notes 8, 15 and 21 of the audited consolidated 
financial statements for 2011.

62

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

  
operating Segment Review
CWB operates in two business segments: 1) banking and trust,  
and 2) insurance. Segmented information is also provided  
in Note 33 of the consolidated financial statements.

Banking and trust

Highlights of 2011
•  Realized record net income of $166.0 million, an increase of 10%. 

•  Achieved record total revenues (teb) of $462.5 million, an 

increase of 14%.

•  Surpassed $12 billion of total loans based on very strong loan 

growth of 16%.

•  Surpassed $14 billion of total assets and $9 billion of total 

assets under administration.

•  Realized improved credit quality as evidenced by a $46.2 million 

(32%) reduction in total gross impaired loans.

•  Maintained a provision for credit losses of 20 basis points of 
average loans while realizing a $0.8 million increase in the 
dollar level of the general allowance for credit losses.

•  Increased branch and trust generated deposits 9%, with 

the demand and notice component up13%.

•  Reported an efficiency ratio (teb) of 45.4%, a slight 

deterioration from 44.4%.

•  Opened a new full-service business and retail banking  
centre in Richmond, BC, bringing CWB’s total number  
of branches to 40.

•  Expanded CWB’s existing branch in Medicine Hat, Alberta  

to offer full-service business and retail banking.

•  Implemented the Bank’s new loan origination system in all 

CWB branches.

•  Obtained a credit rating on deposits and senior debt from DBRS 
Limited of A (low) with a stable outlook; the rating issued on 
subordinated debentures was BBB (high), also with a stable 
outlook. 

•  Completed a $250 million offering of senior deposit notes 

representing the Bank’s first issue of floating rate senior debt  
in the capital markets.

•  CWB recognized as one of the 50 Best Employers in Canada  

for a sixth consecutive year.

The operations of the banking and trust segment are comprised 
of business and personal banking services, including equipment 
leases offered by National Leasing, the offering of third-party 
mutual funds through CWF, personal and corporate trust services 
provided through CWT and Valiant, and discretionary wealth 
management services offered through Adroit. Optimum Mortgage, 
a division of CWT, underwrites and administers residential 
mortgages. With a focus on mid-market commercial banking, real 
estate financing, equipment financing and energy lending, CWB’s 
proven strategy is based on building strong customer relationships 
and providing value-added services to businesses and individuals 
across Western Canada and other select markets. The Bank delivers 
a wide variety of personal financial products and services, including 
personal loans and mortgages, deposit accounts, investment 
products and other banking services.

Customer access is provided through a network of 40 client-focused 
branches in select locations across the four western provinces. 
Canadian Direct Financial® is an Internet-based division of the 
Bank that mainly offers a range of deposit and registered savings 
products directly to customers in all provinces and territories 
except Quebec. Optimum Mortgage sources residential mortgages 
through a network of mortgage brokers in Western Canada and 
select markets in Ontario. National Leasing specializes in small and 
mid-sized commercial equipment leases and has representation 
across Canada. CWT provides trustee and custody services to 
independent financial advisors, corporations, brokerage firms 
and individuals. Valiant’s operations include stock transfer and 
corporate trust services. Adroit specializes in discretionary wealth 
management for individuals, corporations and institutional clients.

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

63

Table 24 – banking and TruST highlighTS (1) 
($ thousands)

Net interest income (teb)
Other income
Total revenues (teb)
Provision for credit losses
Non-interest expenses
Provision for income taxes (teb)
Non-controlling interest in subsidiary

net income

Efficiency ratio (teb)
Efficiency ratio
Net interest margin (teb)
Net interest margin
Average loans ($ millions) (3)
Average assets ($ millions) (3)

$ 

2011 
376,781 
 85,706 
 462,487 
 22,179 
 210,193 
 63,848 
 228 

$ 

2010 
321,640 
 83,393 
 405,033 
 20,413 
 179,734 
 53,438 
 215 

$ 

166,039 

$ 

151,233 

 45.4%
 46.5 
 2.81 
 2.74 
11,329 
 13,398 

$ 

$ 

 44.4%
 45.5 
 2.73 
 2.64 
9,806 
 11,792 

Change from
2010 

 17%
 3 
 14 
 9 
 17 
 19 
 6 

 10%

 100 bp (2)
 100 
 8 
 10 
 16%
 14 

(1)  See page 35 for a discussion of teb and non-GAAP measures.
(2)  bp – basis points.
(3)  Loans and 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.

Record banking and trust net income of $166.0 million was up 
10% ($14.8 million) over 2010 on 14% ($57.5 million) growth 
in total revenues (teb). Growth in total revenues (teb) reflects 
net interest income (teb) that was 17% ($55.1 million) higher 
compared to the prior year due to the positive contributions 
from very strong 16% loan growth and an eight basis point 
improvement in net interest margin (teb) to 2.81%. Loan growth 
reflected performance across all lending sectors and each of 
the Bank’s key geographic regions. The increase in net interest 
margin was mainly driven by improved deposit costs and lower 
average liquidity, partially offset by increased debenture expense. 
Other income increased 3% ($2.3 million) as strong results across 
CWB’s core banking operations, including a full-year contribution 
from National Leasing, a 10% ($1.7 million) increase in trust and 
wealth management fee income and $1.1 million higher foreign 
exchange gains more than offset the combined impact of a $2.0 
million decline in gains on sale of securities and slightly lower 
securitization revenue. Non-interest expenses increased 17% 
($30.5 million) mainly due to additional staff complement and 
ongoing investment in premises and technology infrastructure 
to support continued business growth. Excluding the impact of 
National Leasing in both years, including related amortization 
of intangible assets, the year-over-year increase in non-interest 
expenses was $18.9 million (11%). Very strong growth in total 
revenues (teb) was slightly offset by the impact of higher  
non-interest expenses and led to a 100 basis point deterioration 
in the efficiency ratio (teb) to 45.4%. 

Overall credit quality remained satisfactory and showed continuous 
improvement throughout the year. Gross impaired loans totaled 
$97.0 million at year end, compared to $143.2 million a year earlier. 
The annual provision for credit losses exceeded net new specific 
provisions and led to a $0.8 million increase in the dollar level of  
the general allowance for credit losses compared to last year.

Significant infrastructure and technology initiatives completed 
in 2011 included the opening of a new full-service branch in 
Richmond, BC, implementation of the Bank’s new loan origination 
system in all CWB branches and completion of a new data centre 
at the Bank’s corporate offices in Edmonton. Further upgrades 
and expansions to systems and existing premises  
were also completed.

The balance of total branch and trust deposits grew 9% ($603 
million), while the demand and notice component of branch and 
trust deposits was up 13% ($461 million). Growth in branch and 
trust generated deposits reflect ongoing execution of strategies  
to further enhance and diversify the Bank’s core funding sources, 
as well as CWT’s continued success in generating deposits 
through its fiduciary trust business.

Total assets under administration, including both trust assets 
under administration and third-party service agreements for 
leases and residential mortgages, surpassed the $9 billion 
milestone to reach $9,370 million at October 31, 2011, compared 
to $8,531 million a year earlier. Growth in assets under 
administration mainly reflects strong business performance 
in CWT. A portion of assets under administration are held in 
investment accounts, including self-directed RRSP and RRIF 
accounts, which numbered 47,842 (2010 – 46,009), an increase 
of 4% from one year ago. Assets under management were $816 
million at October 31, 2011, compared to $795 million one year 
ago, reflecting an increasing level of success in offering more 
comprehensive wealth management services to existing banking 
clients. Assets under administration and assets under management 
are not reflected in the consolidated balance sheets (see Note 27 
to the consolidated financial statements). The gross amount of 
securitized assets at year end, which are attributed to National 
Leasing, was $91 million, compared to $199 million one year ago.

64

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

Figure 5 – number oF bank brancheS

2011

2010

2009

2008

+3%

+5%

+3%

+3%

40

39

37

36

2007

+6%

35

outlook for Banking and trust
The outlook for 2012 includes expectations for solid performance 
across all business lines. The achievement of management’s 
10% minimum loan growth target is expected to be supported 
by modest economic growth in Canada and comparatively 
stronger economic performance in the four western provinces. 
The volume in the pipeline for new loans remained solid at the 
end of 2011 despite global uncertainties and potential effects 
of the European debt crisis. Growth will further benefit from an 
expected increase in market share that will be supported by the 
Bank’s expanding market presence and an ongoing commitment 
to relationship-based business banking. Advertising and 
communication initiatives intended to improve client awareness 
within key geographic regions will also continue. Management 
is optimistic about opportunities to continue to build National 
Leasing’s business by strengthening its market position 
and further diversifying the lease portfolio. While residential 
sales activity has moderated, Optimum Mortgage expects to 
achieve continued growth by maintaining its primary focus on 
alternative mortgages. In view of the current very low interest 
rate environment, a flat interest rate curve, ongoing competitive 
influences on loan pricing and expected higher liquidity levels, 
net interest margin will likely be under pressure in 2012, as was 
evidenced by actual results in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2011. 
Credit and retail services fee income is expected to grow in line 
with increased lending activity and an expanded branch network. 

Gains on the sale of securities are expected to be significantly 
lower in fiscal 2012, reflecting the current composition of the 
securities portfolio, interest rate curves and elevated volatility in 
financial markets due to global uncertainties. The IFRS transition 
in 2012 will introduce additional potential for volatility in other 
income as it relates to accounting for unrealized losses in the 
available-for-sale securities portfolio. The acquisition-related 

contingent consideration for National Leasing will add further 
volatility as the amount will be fair valued each period going 
forward under IFRS.

Ongoing growth in CWT’s trust business will positively 
contribute to both fee income and deposit growth, as this 
company continues to gain market share and deliver solid 
overall performance. Valiant has been successful in growing its 
client base across each of its geographic regions. Adroit is also 
expected to make positive contributions as the Bank continues  
to build its presence in wealth management services.

The Bank will maintain its focus on disciplined credit 
underwriting and direct appropriate resources towards 
continued realization efforts and the ongoing resolution of 
problem accounts. The dollar level of gross impaired loans is 
expected to fluctuate from the current level. Largely owing to 
the Bank’s secured lending practices and an overall positive, yet 
cautious, economic outlook for key geographic markets, actual 
loan losses are expected to remain within CWB’s historical range 
of acceptable levels. 

One of management’s key priorities is to maintain effective 
control of costs while ensuring the Bank is positioned to deliver 
strong growth over the long term. Effective execution of CWB’s 
strategic plan will continue to require increased investment in 
certain areas. Significant expenditures relate to additional staff 
complement as well as expanded premises and technology 
upgrades. Anticipated revenue growth supported by planned 
capital investment and higher non-interest expenses necessary 
for continued business growth should translate to a 2012 
efficiency ratio (teb) that is relatively consistent with that 
achieved in fiscal 2011. 

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

65

 
insurance

Highlights of 2011
•  Net income of $12.1 million, down 2%; net income, excluding 
the impact of the Alberta auto risk sharing pools, was up 14%.

•  Customer retention rate of 86% and very high customer 

satisfaction ratings.

•  Record gross written premiums of $130 million.

•  CDI Direct for home sales launched, taking the next step  

•  Claims loss ratio of 64% and a combined ratio of 93%. 

•  Balanced profit contribution between underwriting  

and investment income.

•  Very strong Minimum Capital Test ratio of 361%.

in providing home products over the Internet.

•  Online claims estimating system implemented to improve 

customer service and efficiency.

Canadian Direct provides auto and home insurance products in 
BC and Alberta and has more than 190,000 policies outstanding. 
Policy distribution channels include two dedicated call centres, 
the Internet and, for customers in BC, the option to purchase auto 
insurance through select broker networks. Offering enhanced 
electronic fulfillment of Canadian Direct’s products and services is 
an important part of the overall business strategy, and continued 
development of this technology will remain a priority.

Canadian Direct’s mission is to provide customers with attractively 
priced products and a high level of customer service – “better 
insurance for less money.” The core strategy includes the use of 
sophisticated underwriting techniques to offer more competitively 

priced insurance to better risk customers. The Canadian Direct 
Insurance brand is marketed through several media channels, 
including television, radio, newspapers and the Internet. A very 
high level of awareness has been established in the BC market 
and the level of awareness in Alberta continues to grow. All 
claims are administered by Canadian Direct’s head office in BC 
using imaging technology and effective workflow management 
to maintain a paperless office environment. Canadian Direct’s 
use of technology helps to maintain a favourable expense ratio 
without compromising customer satisfaction. Canadian Direct 
currently retains a high percentage of its customers (2011 – 86%), 
a measure that confirms its success in providing quality products 
and services at competitive prices. 

Table 25 – inSurance highlighTS (1) 
($ thousands)

Net interest income (teb)

Other income

Net earned premiums

Commissions and processing fees

Net claims and adjustment expenses

Policy acquisition costs

Insurance revenues (net)

Gains 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

Expense ratio

Combined ratio

Alberta automobile insurance risk sharing pools impact on net income before tax

Average total assets ($ millions) (3)

2011 

$ 

7,902 

$ 

 117,632 

 1,869 

 (74,734)

 (24,517)

 20,250 

 375 

 28,527 

 12,258 

 4,159 

$ 

$ 

$ 

12,110 

$ 

 190,994 

129,671 

$ 

 64%

 29 

 93 

729 

$ 

 235 

2010 

7,024 

 111,368 

 2,347 

 (68,641)

 (23,358)

 21,716 

 486 

 29,226 

 11,746 

 5,092 

12,388 

 185,167 

124,451 

 62%

 29 

 91 

3,255 

 215 

Change from

2010

 13%

 6 

 (20)

 9 

 5 

 (7)

 (23)

 (2)

 4 

 (18)

 (2)%

3%

 4 
 200 bp (2)

 – 

 200 

(78)%

 9 

(1)  See page 35 for a discussion of teb and non-GAAP measures.
(2)  bp – basis points.
(3)  Average total assets are disclosed on an average daily balance basis as this measure is more relevant to a financial institution and is the measure reviewed by management.

66

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

Canadian Direct reported net income of $12.1 million, down 2% 
($0.3 million) from 2010, as the positive revenue impact of 6% 
growth in net earned premiums was offset by higher net claims 
expense. Growth in net earned premiums was attributed to 3% 
growth in policies outstanding and a higher average premium 
per policy in the home product lines of business. Net claims 
expense in Alberta increased due to higher frequency and 
severity in auto claims and $1.8 million of losses in the home 
product line related to a catastrophic wildfire in Slave Lake. Net 
claims expense was also higher for Canadian Direct’s share of 
the Alberta auto risk sharing pools (the Pools), as 2010 results 
included a $1.5 million reduction to unpaid claims reserves 

specifically related to a December 2009 decision by the Supreme 
Court that denied leave to appeal the cap on minor injuries 
suffered in an automobile accident. Following the Supreme 
Court decision, the Pools’ unpaid claims reserves were reduced. 
Excluding the Pools’ impact in both years, 2011 net income 
was $11.5 million, up 14% ($1.4 million) over 2010. Net claims 
experience in BC was favourable compared to the prior year.

The claims ratio and the combined ratio of 64% and 93%, 
respectively, each increased 200 basis points from the prior year. 
The home and auto product lines were both profitable for the 
year. Gross written premiums were relatively balanced between 
the BC auto, Alberta auto, and the home product lines. 

outlook for insurance operations
The outlook for 2012 reflects expectations for continued growth 
in premiums written, while cost increases will be kept in line 
with revenue growth. Canadian Direct plans to drive growth 
in the BC auto product line through careful expansion of the 
broker distribution networks to meet challenges brought 
about by the pricing strategies of the Insurance Corporation 
of British Columbia. In Alberta, the Auto Insurance Rate Board 
(AIRB) announced that rates effective November 1, 2011 for basic 
coverage on private passenger vehicles will remain unchanged 
from the prior year. Effects of this announcement will reduce, 
but not reverse, the downward pressure on premium revenue 
attributed to 5% rate reductions mandated by the AIRB in each 
of the past two years. In the home product lines, Canadian Direct 
will review the coverage it provides and likely increase rates to 

help cover costs of the increasing frequency of storms  
and water-related losses.

The 2012 net claims loss ratio is expected to be in the  
mid-range between 60% and 70%. This is consistent with 
recent years’ results. The loss ratio can be negatively impacted 
by seasonal storm activity, particularly in the winter months. 
Earnings volatility may also increase reflecting the strategic 
decision to place a higher retention limit of $5 million  
(2011 – $2 million) on Canadian Direct’s catastrophe reinsurance 
treaty. The target for the combined ratio is 93%. Canadian Direct 
will continue to develop its Internet-based technology platform, 
which will facilitate growth opportunities and enhance the 
customer experience by making more products and services 
available online.

Summary of Quarterly Results and fourth Quarter
Quarterly Results
The financial results for each of the last eight quarters are 
summarized in Table 26. In general, CWB’s performance reflects 
a consistent growth trend, although the second quarter contains 
three fewer revenue-earning days.

The Bank’s quarterly financial results are subject to some 
fluctuation due to its exposure to property and casualty 
insurance. Insurance operations, which are primarily reflected in 
other income (refer to Operating Segment Review – Insurance), 
are subject to seasonal weather conditions, including higher 
claims experience during winter driving months, cyclical 
patterns of the industry and natural catastrophes. Mandatory 
participation in the Alberta auto risk sharing pools can also result 
in unpredictable quarterly fluctuations. Quarterly results can also 
fluctuate due to the recognition of periodic income tax items, as 
was the case in the third quarter of 2010 when an income tax 
recovery and related interest receipt from certain prior period 
transactions increased net income by approximately $8.3 million.

The acquisition of National Leasing was effective February 1, 
2010 and the results of its operations and financial position are 
consolidated as part of the Bank’s overall financial performance 

beginning with the second quarter of that year. The acquisition 
had a positive impact on all categories included in Table 26 
except for the provision for credit losses. The impact of the higher 
loan loss experience inherent in National Leasing’s portfolio 
compared to the Bank’s core lending business is more than offset 
by the relatively higher yield earned on its portfolio.

Gains on sale of securities, reflected in other income, were 
unusually high in 2010 and the first two quarters of 2011. Gains 
on sale of securities in 2010 and prior periods mainly resulted 
from a steep interest rate curve and wide credit spreads that 
allowed the Bank to capitalize on specific investment strategies. 
The majority of gains on sale of securities in the current year 
resulted from the repositioning of common equities and 
preferred shares within the investment portfolio. Based on the 
current composition of the securities portfolio and elevated 
volatility in financial markets resulting from global uncertainties, 
management expects the level of net gains on sale of securities 
will be significantly reduced in future periods.

Detailed management’s discussion and analysis along with 
unaudited interim consolidated financial statements for each 

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

67

quarter, except for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2011, are available 
for review on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and on the Bank’s website 
at www.cwbankgroup.com. Copies of the quarterly reports to 

shareholders can also be obtained, free of charge, by contacting 
the Bank’s Investor Relations department via email  
at InvestorRelations@cwbank.com.

Table 26 – quarTerly Financial highlighTS (1) 
($ thousands, except per share amounts)

Net interest income (teb)

$  99,842 

$  98,133 

$  93,282 

$  93,426 

$  89,206 

$  85,020 

$  80,132 

$  74,306 

2011

2010

Q4

Q3

Q2

Q1

Q4

Q3

Q2

Q1

Less teb adjustment

Net interest income

per financial statements

Other income

Total revenues (teb)

Total revenues

Net income

Earnings per common share

Basic

Diluted

Diluted cash

Return on common

 3,133 

 2,797 

 2,385 

 2,744 

 3,179 

 2,782 

 2,662 

 2,563 

 96,709 

 24,452 

 95,336 

 24,952 

 90,897 

 28,506 

 90,682 

 28,421 

 124,294 

 123,085 

 121,788 

 121,847 

 121,161 

 120,288 

 119,403 

 119,103 

 45,046 

 44,711 

 44,440 

 43,952 

 0.55 

 0.54 

 0.55 

 0.55 

 0.52 

 0.54 

 0.58 

 0.53 

 0.54 

 0.59 

 0.54 

 0.55 

 86,027 

 22,364 

 111,570 

 108,391 

 39,107 

 0.53 

 0.48 

 0.49 

 82,238 

 26,025 

 111,045 

 108,263 

 46,595 

 0.64 

 0.59 

 0.60 

 77,470 

 30,840 

 110,972 

 108,310 

 37,884 

 0.52 

 0.47 

 0.48 

 71,743 

 26,366 

 100,672 

 98,109 

 40,035 

 0.57 

 0.52 

 0.52 

shareholders’ equity (ROE)

 15.2%

 14.6%

 16.3%

 16.4%

 15.1%

 19.1%

 16.3%

 18.0%

Return on average total assets (ROA)

Efficiency ratio (teb)

Efficiency ratio

Net interest margin (teb)

Net interest margin

Provision for credit losses as

 1.12 

 45.1 

 46.3 

 2.72 

 2.64 

 1.18 

 45.3 

 46.4 

 2.83 

 2.75 

 1.25 

 45.5 

 46.4 

 2.87 

 2.80 

 1.24 

 45.2 

 46.3 

 2.88 

 2.79 

 1.13 

 46.6 

 47.9 

 2.84 

 2.74 

 1.40 

 44.4 

 45.5 

 2.78 

 2.69 

 1.17 

 45.0 

 46.1 

 2.76 

 2.67 

 1.25 

 40.0 

 41.0 

 2.56 

 2.47 

a percentage of average loans

 0.18 

 0.18 

 0.19 

 0.23 

 0.21 

 0.23 

 0.23 

 0.16 

(1)  See page 35 for a discussion of teb and non-GAAP measures.

fourth Quarter of 2011
CWB posted strong fourth quarter performance marking its 94th 
consecutive profitable quarter. Fourth quarter net income of $45.0 
million was up 15% ($5.9 million) compared to the same quarter 
last year, while diluted earnings per common share increased 13% 
to $0.54 (diluted cash earnings per share of $0.55 increased 12%). 
Fourth quarter total revenues, measured on a taxable equivalent 
basis, grew 11% ($12.7 million) to reach a record $124.3 million 
as the combined positive impact of very strong 16% loan growth 
and 9% ($2.1 million) higher other income more than offset the 
impact of a 12 basis point decline in net interest margin (teb) to 
2.72%. Measured by business segment, banking and trust net 
income of $42.3 million grew 14%, driven by record total revenues 
(teb) of $117.5 million, up 12%. Insurance segment net income 
of $2.7 million was up $0.6 million from the fourth quarter last 
year, mainly reflecting 6% growth in net earned premiums and 
improved claims experience. 

Compared to the third quarter, net income increased 1% ($0.3 
million) as the positive revenue contribution from 2% quarterly 
loan growth was partially offset by the combined impact of an 11 
basis point reduction in net interest margin (teb), 2% ($0.5 million) 
lower other income and slightly higher non-interest expenses. 
Diluted earnings per common share increased 4% ($0.02) over 

68

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

the prior quarter while diluted cash earnings per share was up 
2% ($0.01). Higher percentage growth in diluted earnings per 
common share compared to growth in net income reflects the 
positive impact from the redemption of warrants completed on 
August 31, 2011. 

Net interest margin (teb) of 2.72% was down from 2.84% in the 
fourth quarter last year, with the difference largely resulting from 
lower yields on both loans and securities as well as increased 
expense related to subordinated debentures issued in the first 
quarter of 2011. The 11 basis point reduction in net interest 
margin (teb) compared to the prior quarter mainly reflected a 
combination of lower loan yields due to the very low interest rate 
environment and heightened competitive pressures. The Bank’s 
higher average liquidity maintained during the fourth quarter 
in response to elevated global uncertainties also negatively 
impacted margin.

The quarterly return on common shareholders’ equity of 15.2% 
increased 10 basis points compared to a year earlier and 60 basis 
points over the prior quarter. Fourth quarter return on assets of 
1.12% was down slightly from 1.13% a year earlier and 1.18% in 
the previous quarter.

 
Total loans of $12,221 million grew 2% ($274 million) based on 
positive performance across all lending sectors. Quarterly loan 
growth was also evident across all of the Bank’s key geographic 
regions. The overall volume in the pipeline for new loans 
remained solid.

Overall credit quality remained satisfactory and continued to 
show improvement. Gross impaired loans totaled $97.0 million at 
quarter end, compared to $107.9 million in the third quarter and 

Accounting Policies and Estimates
critical Accounting Estimates
CWB’s significant accounting policies are outlined in Note 1 
and with related financial note disclosures by major caption in 
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
An allowance for credit losses is maintained to absorb probable 
credit-related losses in the loan portfolio based on management’s 
estimate 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 specific issues with respect to 
single borrowers. Changes in 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. The general allowance for credit losses is intended to 
address this uncertainty. At October 31, 2011, the Bank’s total 
allowance for credit losses was $70.8 million (2010 – $78.6 million), 
which included a specific allowance of $10.4 million (2010 – $19.0 
million) and a general allowance of $60.4 million (2010 – $59.6 
million). Additional information on the process and methodology 
for determining the allowance for credit losses can be found in 
the discussion of Credit Quality in this MD&A and in Note 7 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 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 

$143.2 million a year earlier. This represented the sixth consecutive 
quarter of declining gross impaired loans. The quarterly provision 
for credit losses exceeded net new specific provisions and led to a 
$2.8 million increase in the dollar level of the general allowance for 
credit losses compared to the third quarter.

The fourth quarter efficiency ratio (teb) improved to 45.1%, compared 
to 46.6% a year earlier and 45.3% in the previous quarter. 

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 reinsurance balances. 
All provisions are periodically reviewed and evaluated in light 
of emerging claims experience and changing circumstances. 
Changes in circumstances may cause future 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, 2011, the provision for unpaid 
claims and adjustment expenses totaled $76.9 million (2010 
– $80.1 million). Additional information on the process and 
methodology for determining the provision for unpaid claims and 
adjustment expenses can be found in Note 22 to the consolidated 
financial statements. This critical estimate relates to CWB’s 
insurance segment.

financial instruments Measured at fair Value
Cash resources, securities, securities purchased under resale 
agreements, securities sold under repurchase agreements, 
retained interest in securitized assets and derivative financial 
instruments are reported on the consolidated balance sheets  
at fair value.

The fair value of a financial instrument on initial recognition is 
the value of the consideration given or received. Subsequent 
to initial recognition, financial instruments measured at fair 
value that are quoted in active markets are based on bid prices 
for financial assets and offer prices for financial liabilities. For 
derivative financial instruments or other financial assets and 
liabilities where an active market does not exist, fair values are 
determined using valuation techniques that refer to observable 
market data, including discounted cash flow analysis, option 
pricing models and other valuation techniques commonly used by 
market participants.

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

69

The following table summarizes the significant financial assets and liabilities reported at fair value at October 31, 2011.

Table 27 – valuaTion oF Financial inSTrumenTS 
($ thousands)

Financial assets

Cash resources

Securities

Retained interest in securitized assets

october 31, 2011
October 31, 2010

Financial liabilities

Derivative related

october 31, 2011
October 31, 2010

Valuation technique

Quoted

Market

Prices

Model with

observable

Market Data

fair

Value

$ 

312,335 

$ 

272,704 

$ 

39,631 

 1,925,704 

 1,925,704 

 7,767 

 – 

$  2,245,806 
1,885,922 
$ 

$  2,198,408 
1,691,330 
$ 

$ 

$ 
$ 

436 

436 
992 

$ 

$ 
$ 

– 

– 
– 

 – 

 7,767 

47,398 
194,592 

436 

436 
992 

$ 
$ 

$ 

$ 
$ 

Notes 3, 4, 5, 12 and 30 to the consolidated financial statements 
provide additional information regarding these financial 
instruments. This critical accounting estimate relates to both 
operating segments.

CWB has no direct credit exposure to sovereign debt outside of 
Canada. CWB also has no direct exposure to any credit default 
swaps, collateralized debt obligations, non-bank sponsored asset-
backed commercial paper or monoline insurers.

changes in Accounting Policies 
There were no changes in accounting policies during 2011.

70

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

future changes in Accounting Policies 

international financial Reporting Standards
The Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants (CICA) has 
transitioned Canadian GAAP for publicly accountable entities to 
International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) for interim and 
annual financial statements effective for fiscal years beginning on 
or after January 1, 2011, including comparatives for the prior year. 
As a result, the Bank’s consolidated financial statements will be 
prepared in accordance with IFRS in effect at October 31, 2012 for 
the 2012 fiscal year, and will include comparative information for 
the 2011 fiscal year. 

The information provided below will allow investors and others 
to obtain a better understanding of management’s IFRS transition 
plan and the resulting estimated effects on the Bank’s financial 
statements. Readers are cautioned, however, that it may not be 
appropriate to use this information for any other purpose. 

Several accounting standards are in the process of being 
amended by the IFRS standard setter, the International 
Accounting Standards Board (IASB). Therefore, management 
continues to monitor IASB projects for developments. However, 
the Bank does not presently anticipate the issuance of new or 
revised accounting standards requiring adoption during 2012.

The Bank commenced its IFRS conversion project during 2008 
and established a formal project governance structure, including 
an IFRS Steering Committee, to monitor the progress and critical 
decisions in the transition to IFRS. The Steering Committee 
consists of senior levels of management from Finance, Credit Risk 
Management and Information Services. An external advisory firm 
has been engaged to work with the Bank’s project staff on certain 
IFRS topics. Regular reporting is provided by the project team to 
the Steering Committee and the Audit Committee. 

ifRS transition Plan
The Bank embarked on a four phase project to identify and 
evaluate the impact of the transition to IFRS on the consolidated 
financial statements, develop a plan and complete the transition. 
The project plan includes the following phases:

1)  Diagnostic phase – This phase involved performing a high-
level impact assessment to identify key areas that may 
be impacted by the transition to IFRS. As a result of these 
procedures, the potentially affected areas were ranked as 
high, medium or low priority.

2)  Design and planning phase – In this phase, each area 

identified from the diagnostic phase was addressed through a 
detailed impact assessment. This phase involved identification 
and analysis of changes required to existing accounting 
policies and/or disclosures, information systems and business 
processes. In addition, preliminary internal communication 
and training was commenced.

3)  Solution development phase – This phase included the 

execution of any required changes to information systems 
and business processes, completing formal authorization 
processes to approve recommended accounting policy 
changes, development of IFRS financial statement format and 
disclosure and delivery of training for the Finance team and 
other groups, as necessary.

4)  Implementation phase – The final phase involves the collection 
of financial information necessary to compile IFRS-compliant 
financial statements, embedding IFRS in business processes, 
and Audit Committee approval of IFRS financial statements.

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

71

Progress towards transition Plan
The final implementation phase of the transition plan is now 
substantially complete. The following table is a summary of the 

Bank’s progress towards completion of selected key activities of the 
IFRS transition plan: 

activity

milestones

Status

Identify applicable differences in Canadian 
GAAP/IFRS accounting policies and practices 
and design and implement solutions.

Senior management and Steering 
Committee sign-off for all key IFRS 
accounting policy choices.

Select IFRS 1 choices.

Develop financial statement and related 
note disclosure format.

Quantify effects of transition.

Development and review of draft financial 
statement format.

–
t
n
e
m
e
t
a
t
S

l

a
i
c
n
a
n
i
F

n
o
i
t
a
r
a
p
e
r
P

Define and introduce appropriate level of 
IFRS expertise for each of the following:

•  Finance group

•  CWB lenders

•  Audit Committee & Board  

of Directors

Timely training provided to align with work 
under transition – all training completed by 
the third quarter of 2011.

Communication of effects of transition in 
time for 2012 financial reporting process.

i

g
n
n
a
r
T

i

The Diagnostic phase and Design & 
Planning phases are complete, which 
involved a detailed impact assessment of 
the differences between Canadian GAAP 
and IFRS.

Completed the analysis of accounting 
policy choices.

The development of the annual and 
quarterly IFRS financial statement and note 
disclosure formats is substantially complete. 

Participated in industry IFRS 
specialist groups.

Finance group, Audit Committee and Board 
of Directors training occurred from 2007 
to 2011. Regular status reports continue. 
Finance resources are available to all 
lenders. 

Engaged a third-party subject matter expert 
to assist in certain IFRS topics and training.

s
m
e
t
s
y
S
n
o
i
t
a
m
r
o
f
n

i

t
n
e
m
n
o
r
i
v
n
e

l

o
r
t
n
o
c

Identify and address IFRS differences that 
require changes to financial systems.

Evaluate and select methods to address 
need for dual record-keeping during 
2011 (i.e. IFRS and Canadian GAAP) 
for comparatives.

Confirmation that business processes and 
systems are IFRS compliant throughout 
the project.

Diagnostic analysis regarding current 
systems completed; no significant business 
processes or system changes required.

Confirmation that systems can 
address 2011 dual record-keeping 
processing requirements.

Dual record-keeping process confirmed 
during first quarter of 2009.

Revise existing internal control processes 
and procedures to address significant 
changes to existing accounting policies 
and practices, including the need for dual 
record-keeping during 2011.

Design and implement internal controls 
with respect to one-time transition 
adjustments and related communications.

Assessment of all key control and design 
effectiveness implications throughout 2010.

Documentation of changes during the third 
and fourth quarter of 2011.

Completed analysis of control requirements 
and there was no significant impact 
on the Bank’s internal controls over 
financial reporting or disclosure controls 
and procedures.

72

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

 
 
 
 
 
impact on financial Reporting and Accounting Policies 

The Bank’s detailed impact assessment identified the following 
significant accounting policy differences on initial transition to 
IFRS for the Bank:

1)  business combinations – Under IFRS, contingent 

consideration related to a business combination is accounted 
for as a financial liability and fair valued at the time of the 
acquisition. An adjustment of the liability to current fair value 
is recorded through net income every period thereafter until 
settlement. Under Canadian GAAP, when the amount of 
contingent consideration cannot be reasonably estimated 
or the outcome of the contingency cannot be determined 
without reasonable doubt, the liability is not recognized until 
the contingency is resolved and consideration is issued or 
becomes issuable and, at such time, the consideration is 
recorded as an adjustment of goodwill. 

Since the Bank expects to apply IFRS 3 – Business 
Combinations retrospectively to the National Leasing 
acquisition (see IFRS 1 below for additional discussion), 
the associated contingent consideration will be fair valued 
at the acquisition date of February 1, 2010. The expected 
retrospective restatement will increase IFRS goodwill by  
$8 million. 

The effect of the contingent consideration is currently 
estimated to decrease retained earnings by $10 million at 
November 1, 2010, which represents the estimated fair value 
change from the February 1, 2010 acquisition date to the IFRS 
transition date. The expected net effect on 2011 consolidated 
net income, as the obligation is revalued, is a reduction of 
$12 million.

2)  derecognition of Securitized Financial assets – The Bank 
expects that National Leasing’s securitized leases (totaling  
$91 million at October 31, 2011 and $199 million at November 
1, 2010) will be reported as loans on the balance sheet, which 
would increase loans and debt and have an insignificant 
impact on net income throughout fiscal 2011.

The currently estimated effect of these securitization 
transactions is a decrease to Canadian GAAP retained 
earnings of $2 million at November 1, 2010, representing 
the elimination of cumulative securitization gains and losses 
realized under Canadian GAAP, less recognition of interest 
income and expense under IFRS. The currently estimated 
net effect on 2011 consolidated net income is an increase of 
$1 million.

3)  consolidation – Under IFRS, a variable interest entity (VIE) 
is consolidated if the entity is deemed to control it, as 
determined under specific criteria. Canadian Western Bank 
Capital Trust will be consolidated under IFRS, which will 
decrease deposits and increase total equity by $105 million. 
For more information about this special purpose entity see 
Note 15 to the consolidated financial statements.

The currently estimated net effect on 2011 consolidated  
net income is an increase of $7 million as the deposit interest 
expense under Canadian GAAP is treated as an equity 
dividend payment under IFRS. However, the effect on net 
income attributable to shareholders of the Bank is nil.

4)  impairment of available-for-Sale Securities – Under both 
Canadian GAAP and IFRS, available-for-sale securities are 
reported on the balance sheet at fair value with changes  
in fair value generally reported in other comprehensive 
income. An unrealized loss is recognized in net income when 
a security is considered impaired; a subsequent recovery in 
the value of an equity security is not reversed through net 
income until the security is either sold or redeemed. Under 
Canadian GAAP, a significant or prolonged decline in the 
fair value of an investment below its cost is assessed in the 
context of whether the decline is considered an “other than 
temporary impairment” (OTTI). Under IFRS, the concept of 
OTTI does not exist and either a significant or prolonged 
decline in fair value is considered objective evidence of 
impairment. This difference between Canadian GAAP and 
IFRS will generally result in earlier recognition of impairment 
losses through net income under IFRS. 

The currently estimated impact of the transition will result in 
no change in shareholders’ equity at November 1, 2010 and  
a $2 million reduction in 2011 net income. 

5)  iFrS 1 – IFRS 1: First Time Adoption of IFRS provides a 

framework for the transition to IFRS. Generally, retroactive 
application is applied to the opening balance sheet at 
November 1, 2010 as though the Bank had always applied 
IFRS. However, IFRS 1 permits both mandatory exceptions 
to retroactive application and optional exemptions from 
other IFRS standards. The Bank has evaluated all optional 
exemptions under IFRS 1, with the most significant potential 
exemption relating to business combinations. The Bank 
expects to elect not to apply IFRS 3 – Business Combinations 
retrospectively to acquisitions that occurred before February 
1, 2010 (further described above).

6)  loan loss accounting – Although both existing Canadian 
GAAP and IFRS calculate loan losses using the incurred 
loss model, IFRS is more specific as to what qualifies as an 
“incurred event.” Under IFRS, incurred losses require objective 
evidence of impairment, must have a reliably measurable 
effect on the present value of estimated cash flows and 
be supported by currently observable data. The Bank has 
developed an IFRS compliant methodology, and management 
currently estimates no difference between the specific or 
general (collective under IFRS) allowances for credit losses 
between Canadian GAAP and IFRS.

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

73

Table 28 - reconciliaTion oF condenSed conSolidaTed balance SheeT 
As at November 1, 2010 (Unaudited) 
($ millions)

IFRS Adjustments

(1)

(2)

(3)

canadian

Business

(4)

AFS

Pro forma

gAAP

Combinations

Derecognition

Consolidation

Impairment

Other (1)

ifRS

Assets
Cash resources, securities 
and securities under 
resale agreements

Loans

Other assets

total assets

liabilities
Deposits

Other liabilities

Debt

total liabilities

Shareholders’ equity

Non-controlling interest 

Total equity
total liabilities and 
equity

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

1,876 

 10,496 

 330 

$ 

12,702 

$ 

10,813 

 426 

 315 

 11,554 

 1,148 

 – 

 1,148 

$ 

$ 

$ 

– 

 – 

 8 

8 

– 

 18 

 – 

 18 

 (10)

 – 

 (10)

– 

 196 

 (10)

186 

– 

 (14)

 202 

 188 

 (2)

 – 

 (2)

$ 

$ 

$ 

– 

 – 

 – 

– 

$ 

$ 

(105)

$ 

 – 

 – 

 (105)

 – 

 105 

 105 

$ 

12,702 

$ 

8 

$ 

186 

$ 

– 

$ 

Table 29 – reconciliaTion oF neT income 
For the year ended October 31, 2011 (Unaudited) 
($ millions)

IFRS Adjustments

(1)

(2)

(3)

canadian

Business

– 

 – 

 – 

– 

– 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

– 

(4)

AFS

$ 

$ 

$ 

– 

 (15)

 4 

(11)

– 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 (11)

 – 

 (11)

$ 

1,876 

 10,677 

 332 

$ 

12,885 

$ 

10,708 

 430 

 517 

 11,655 

 1,125 

 105 

 1,230 

$ 

(11)

$ 

12,885 

Pro forma

gAAP

Combinations

Derecognition

Consolidation

Impairment

Other (1)

ifRS

Net income  

(non-controlling 
interest 
and shareholders of 
the Bank)

Net income attributable to  

non-controlling 
interests

Net income attributable 

to shareholders of the 
Bank

$ 

178 

$ 

(12)

$ 

1 

$ 

7 

$ 

(2)

$ 

– 

$ 

172 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 7 

 – 

 – 

 7 

$ 

178 

$ 

(12)

$ 

1 

$ 

– 

$ 

(2)

$ 

– 

$ 

165 

(1)  Other Reclassifications – Certain other financial statement reclassifications have been made on transition. Examples include the method of recognition of certain credit-related fees and the presentation of 

the non-controlling interest in Adroit Investment Management.

74

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

impact on capital Adequacy Requirements

As at October 31, 2010, the pro forma Basel II Tier 1 regulatory 
capital ratio is currently estimated to decline 30 basis points, and 
the total regulatory capital ratio is currently estimated to decline 
30 basis points under IFRS to 11.0% and 14.0%, respectively. Both 
ratios, after considering IFRS transition adjustments, are currently 
expected to remain well above the minimum regulatory capital 
ratio requirements and the Bank’s internal thresholds.

Risk Management

On an IFRS basis, leases securitized and sold by National Leasing 
are accounted for as secured borrowings, which results in 
recognition of the securitized assets on the consolidated balance 
sheet and, therefore, an increase in the regulatory asset-to-
capital multiple. As at October 31, 2010 the Bank’s asset-to-
capital multiple, after considering IFRS transition adjustments, is 
expected to remain well within regulatory guidelines.

The shaded areas of this MD&A represent a discussion of risk 
management policies and procedures relating to credit, market 
and liquidity risks as required under the CICA Handbook section 
3862, Financial Instruments – Disclosures, which permits these 

specific disclosures to be included in the MD&A. Therefore, the 
shaded areas presented on pages 76 to 80 of this MD&A form an 
integral part of the audited consolidated financial statements for 
the year ended October 31, 2011.

overview
CWB’s risk management processes have been designed to 
complement the organization’s overall philosophy regarding 
risk. A strong risk culture which emphasizes transparency and 
accountability continues to be a cornerstone of CWB’s approach 
to risk management. Selectively taking and managing risks has 
been integral to the ability to continually grow profitability in both 
favourable and more adverse market conditions. 

CWB, like other financial institutions, is exposed to risk factors 
that could adversely affect its operating environment, financial 
condition and financial performance, and which may also 
influence an investor’s decision to buy, sell or hold CWB shares, 
deposits or other securities. CWB has demonstrated its ability 
to effectively manage risks through conservative management 
practices, a strong risk culture and disciplined risk management 
approach, but many risk factors are beyond CWB’s direct control. 
The Bank actively monitors and manages sources of potential risk. 
Economic uncertainties that began with the global financial crisis 
in 2008, and continue today with the European debt crisis, have 
significantly increased the level of active management related to 
regulatory risks applicable to CWB’s operations. 

Each of CWB’s businesses is subject to certain risks that require 
unique mitigation strategies to manage them effectively. To 
provide a more proactive and structured risk management 
approach across all areas of CWB’s businesses, the Group Risk 
Management function was established to implement a formalized 
risk management process across all companies. CWB is utilizing 
the ISO 31000 Standard for Risk Management as a comprehensive 
framework to help ensure risk is managed effectively and 
efficiently across CWB and its subsidiaries. This international 
standard provides principles and guidelines for managing risk in 
a systematic, transparent and credible manner. A complementary 
element of the risk management process is stress testing. Stress 
testing is a technique used to assist management in developing 
sound business strategy and making informed risk management 
and capital planning decisions.

Risk Management Principles
Effective risk management is central to the Bank’s ability to 
remain financially sound and profitable, and includes identifying, 
assessing, managing and monitoring all aspects of risk that have 
the potential to positively or negatively affect CWB’s businesses. 
The following principles guide the management of risks on a 
company-wide basis:

•  Effective balancing of risk and reward by aligning business 
strategy with risk appetite, diversifying risk, pricing for risk 
appropriately, and mitigating risk through preventive and 
detective controls;

•  An ongoing focus on “plain vanilla” banking, complemented by 
extensive knowledge and experience in CWB’s chosen business 
sectors and geographic regions;

•  An enterprise-wide view of risk and the acceptance of risks 

required to build the business only if those risks do not harm 
the CWB brand;

•  The belief that every employee is essentially a risk manager  
and must be knowledgeable of the risks inherent in their  
day-to-day activities;

•  Use of common sense, sound judgment and fulsome risk-based 

discussions; and,

•  Recognition that “knowing your clients” reduces risks by 
ensuring that the services provided are suitable for, and 
understood by, all clients.

In addition to a strong values-based risk culture, the foundation 
for solid risk management requires a well defined risk appetite 
and clearly understood and documented risk governance. 

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

75

Risk Appetite 
Risk appetite is simply the formalization of basic business principles 
such as making decisions based on risk-reward tradeoffs, 
understanding potential outcomes of different decisions, and 
deciding whether the organization is comfortable with the risk 
associated with different decisions. It provides a context to discuss 

risks and reach a shared understanding of appropriate risk 
thresholds. Setting these risk tolerances is dynamic and requires 
flexible processes as well as continuous guidance from both 
management and the Board.

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

•  ensuring that risks other than credit risk are identified and 

assessed and that 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 and derivatives 
risk, and trust services risk; and,

•  overseeing compliance and strategy respecting diversification 

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

of product offerings and management of risks.

•  review and monitoring of impaired and other less than 

satisfactory loans; and,

•  recommendation of the adequacy of the allowance for credit 

losses to the Audit Committee.

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

The Bank’s Operations Committee is comprised of supervisory and 
management personnel from all areas of banking operations.  
The Committee meets regularly and is chaired by a member of 
senior management. Key responsibilities are to develop appropriate 
policies and procedures, including internal controls, respecting 
routine day-to-day banking operations.

The internal audit group performs audits in all areas of the Bank, 
audits all subsidiaries, and reports the results directly to senior 
management, as well as the Bank’s CEO and Audit Committee. 

Identifying, measuring and monitoring risks are key components 
of effective enterprise-wide risk management. While by no 
means exhaustive, the following discussions summarize what 
management believes are the most important risks applicable to 
CWB’s current operations. While each of the risks on the following 
pages is described independently, readers are cautioned that many 
of the factors and risks discussed may also be interrelated. 

76

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

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 CWB or its subsidiaries. Credit 
risk is managed through lending policies and procedures, the 
establishment of lending limits and a defined approval process. 
Risk diversification is addressed by establishing portfolio limits 
by geographic area, industry sector and product. CWB’s policy is 
to limit connected corporate borrowers’ loan authorizations to 
not more than 10% of the Bank’s shareholders’ equity. Generally, 
the Bank’s loan limit is $50 million for a single risk exposure. 
However, for certain quality connections with more than one 
risk exposure, the limit is $75 million. CWB customers with larger 
borrowing requirements can be accommodated through loan 
syndications with other financial institutions.

•  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;

•  a review at least annually of individual credit facilities (except 

consumer 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 an 

appropriate financial return;

•  management of growth within quality objectives;

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

•  early recognition of problem accounts and immediate 

implementation of steps to protect the safety of Bank capital;

•  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;

•  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 group of senior 
management prior to making recommendations 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;

•  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 and an impaired loan report covering 
loans that 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 cleanup costs. The 
Bank, in certain situations, 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.

Portfolio Quality
The Bank’s strategy is to maintain a quality, secured portfolio. 
Efforts are directed toward achieving a diversified loan portfolio 
by engaging experienced personnel who provide a hands-on 

approach in credit granting, account management and quick 
action when problems develop. The lending focus within the 
Bank is primarily directed to small and medium-sized businesses 
with operations conducted in the four western provinces, and 
to individuals. Relationship banking and “knowing your clients” 
are important tenets of account management. An appropriate 
financial return on the level of risk is fundamental. Geographic 
diversification in the loan portfolio outside of Western Canada 
is achieved through participation in syndicated lending facilities 
primarily led by other Canadian banks, National Leasing’s 
representation across all provinces and territories of Canada, 
and residential mortgages in select regions of Ontario that are 
underwritten and serviced by Optimum Mortgage. 

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

77

liquidity Risk
Liquidity risk is the risk that the Bank cannot meet a demand for 
cash or fund its financial obligations in a cost efficient or timely 
manner as they come due. These financial obligations can arise 
from withdrawals of deposits, debt maturities, and commitments 
to provide credit. Effective liquidity management ensures that 
adequate cash is available to honour all cash outflow obligations 
while limiting the opportunity cost of holding short-term assets. 
Maintenance of a prudent liquidity base also provides flexibility to 
fund loan growth and react to other market opportunities.

Liquidity policies include:

•  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;

•  limits on single deposits and sources of deposits;

•  scenario and stress testing in the operating, micro,  

and macro environments;

•  diversification of funding sources; and,

•  an approved contingency plan.

Key features of liquidity management are:

•  daily monitoring of expected cash inflows and outflows;

•  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 
each regulated entity to ensure compliance with 
regulatory guidelines.

credit ratings
On November 22, 2010, DBRS Limited issued credit ratings on the 
Bank’s senior debt and deposits, and subordinated debentures of 
A (low) and BBB (high), respectively, both with a stable outlook. 
The same ratings and outlook were subsequently confirmed on 
October 28, 2011. 

Credit ratings do not comment on market price or suitability of 
any financial instrument for a particular investor and are not 
recommendations to purchase, sell or hold securities. Ratings 
are subject to revision or withdrawal at any time by the rating 
organization. Credit ratings are largely determined by the 
quality of the Bank’s earnings, the adequacy of capital and the 
effectiveness of risk management programs. There can be no 
assurance that CWB’s credit ratings and rating outlooks will 
not be lowered or that rating agencies will not issue adverse 

commentaries about CWB, potentially resulting in adverse 
consequences for the Bank’s funding capacity or access to capital 
markets. A lowering of CWB’s credit ratings may also affect the 
Bank’s ability, and the cost, to enter into normal course derivative 
or hedging transactions. Management believes the ratings will 
increase the breadth of clients and investors who can participate 
in CWB’s deposit and debt offerings while also lowering the Bank’s 
overall cost of capital. 

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. CWB itself does not undertake 
trading activities and, therefore, does not have direct risks 
related to those activities, such as market making, arbitrage or 
proprietary trading. The Bank maintains a diversified securities 
portfolio primarily comprised of high quality debt instruments, 
preferred shares and common shares that are subject to price 
fluctuation based on volatility in financial markets, but CWB’s 
material market risks are mainly confined to interest rates and 
foreign exchange, as discussed below.

interest Rate Risk
Interest rate risk, or sensitivity, is defined as the impact on net 
interest income, both current and future, resulting from a change 
in market interest rates. This risk and the 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.

A positive interest rate gap exists when interest sensitive assets 
exceed interest sensitive liabilities for a specific maturity or 
repricing period. Generally, a positive gap will result in an increase 
in net interest income when market interest rates rise since assets 
reprice earlier than liabilities. The opposite impact will generally 
occur when market interest rates fall. However, the correlation 
may be disrupted when interest rates approach zero.

CWB’s earnings are affected by the monetary policies of the Bank 
of Canada. Monetary policy decisions have an impact on the level 
of interest rates, which can have an impact on earnings.

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.

78

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

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, duration analysis 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 29 to the 
consolidated financial statements shows the gap position at 
October 31, 2011 for select time intervals.

The gap analysis in Note 29 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 -0.8% from 1.5% at October 31, 2010, while the one-
month and under gap increased to 9.0% from 7.8% a year earlier. 
To the extent possible within the Bank’s acceptable parameters for 
risk, the asset/liability position will continue to be managed such 
that changing interest rates would generally be relatively neutral 
to 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 typically managed at a target 
duration of between two and three years.

Of the $4,814 million in fixed term deposit liabilities maturing 
within one year from October 31, 2011, approximately $2,702 
million (22% of total deposit liabilities) mature by April 30, 2012. 
The term in which maturing deposits are retained will have an 
impact on the future asset liability structure and, hence, interest 
rate sensitivity. Approximately $306 million of the fixed term 
deposit liabilities maturing within one month are deposits 
redeemable at any time.

The estimated sensitivity of net interest income to a change in 
interest rates is presented in Table 30. 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. The estimates are based on a number of assumptions and 
factors, which include:

•  a constant structure in the interest sensitive asset 

liability portfolio;

•  floor levels for various deposit liabilities;

•  interest rate changes affecting interest sensitive assets and 

liabilities by proportionally the same amount and applied at the 
appropriate repricing dates; and,

•  no early redemptions.

At October 31, 2011, a one-percentage point increase in interest 
rates is estimated to increase net interest income by 3.0% over 
the following twelve months; this compares to October 31, 
2010 when a one-percentage point increase in interest rates 
was expected to increase net interest income by 2.3% over the 
following twelve months. At October 31, 2011, a one-percentage 
point decrease in interest rates is estimated to decrease net 
interest income by 3.7% over the following twelve months; this 
compares to October 31, 2010 when a one-percentage point 
decrease in interest rates was expected to decrease net interest 
income by 1.5% over the following twelve months.

Table 30 – eSTimaTed SenSiTiviTy oF neT inTereST income aS a reSulT oF one-PercenTage PoinT change in inTereST raTeS 
($ thousands)
Impact of 1% increase in interest rates

Period

90 days

1 year

1 year percentage change

Impact of 1% decrease in interest rates 

Period

90 days

1 year

1 year percentage change

$ 

2011

4,015 

 11,024 

 3.0% 

$ 

2011

$ 

(4,786)

$ 

 (13,436)

 (3.7)% 

2010

2,378 

 7,372 

 2.3%

2010

(1,694)

 (4,703)

 (1.5)%

Based on the current interest rate gap position, it is estimated that 
a one-percentage point increase in all interest rates is estimated 
to decrease annual other comprehensive income by $9.0 
million (2010 – $9.8 million), net of tax. A one-percentage point 
decrease in all interest rates is estimated to increase annual other 
comprehensive income by a similar amount.

It is management’s intention to continue to manage the asset 
liability structure and interest rate sensitivity through pricing and 
product policies to attract desired assets and liabilities, as well 
as through the use of interest rate swaps or other appropriate 
hedging techniques (see discussion under Derivative Financial 
Instruments on page 61). Assets and liabilities having a term to 
maturity in excess of five years are subject to specific review  

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

79

and control, and, with the exception of subordinated debentures 
and the deposit from CWB Capital Trust, were not material. The 
subordinated debentures, which are typically redeemed (subject 

to OSFI approval) after five years, and the deposit from CWB 
Capital Trust are discussed in Notes 18 and 15 to the consolidated 
financial statements. 

foreign Exchange Risk
Foreign exchange risk arises when there is a difference between 
assets and liabilities denominated in a foreign currency. In 
providing financial services to its customers, the Bank has assets 
and liabilities denominated in U.S. dollars. At October 31, 2011, 
assets denominated in U.S. dollars were 1.1% (2010 – 1.6%) of total 
assets and U.S. dollar liabilities were 1.2% (2010 – 1.6%) 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 virtually no exposure to currencies other than U.S. dollars.

Policies have been established that include limits on the 
maximum allowable differences between U.S. dollar assets and 
liabilities. The difference is measured daily and managed by use 
of U.S. dollar forward 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
The Bank is exposed to insurance risk through its wholly owned 
subsidiary, Canadian Direct, which offers home and auto 
insurance to customers in BC and Alberta. Accordingly, Canadian 
Direct’s operations are subject to the elements of risk associated 
with these lines of business, which can cause fluctuations and 
uncertainties in earnings. These elements include cyclical patterns 
in the industry and unpredictable developments, including 
weather-related and other natural catastrophes. Canadian Direct 
carries reinsurance coverage as part of its strategy to manage 
these risks. The industry is also impacted by political, regulatory, 
legal and economic influences. 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 categories of risk to which 
Canadian Direct is exposed. Canadian Direct’s Board of Directors 
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 
Canadian Direct’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 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.

80

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

The risk that Canadian Direct might be exposed to 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 Canadian Direct 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. 
Canadian Direct performs financial due diligence procedures on 
prospective reinsurers and only purchases coverage from a list 
of approved companies. Reinsurers must also meet a certain 
minimum security rating and these ratings are monitored on a 
regular basis. Canadian Direct’s reinsurance treaties are matched 
to underwriting strategies through participation of senior 
underwriting staff in the process. Canadian Direct is dependent 
on the availability and pricing of its external reinsurance 
arrangements and this availability and global markets may 
impact pricing. If Canadian Direct is unable to renew such 
arrangements at favourable rates and to adequate limits, then 
Canadian Direct may need to modify its underwriting practices or 
commitments. For fiscal 2012, the Bank made a strategic decision 
to place a higher retention limit of $5 million (2011 – $2 million) on 
Canadian Direct’s catastrophe reinsurance treaty.

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

operational Risk
Operational risk is inherent in all business activities, including 
banking, trust, wealth management and insurance operations 
and is embedded in the processes that support other risks, like 
credit, liquidity and market risk. 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, external threats and activities that 
are outsourced. While operational risk cannot be completely 
eliminated, proactive operational management is a key strategy 
to mitigate this risk. The financial measure of operational risk is 
actual losses incurred. No material losses occurred in 2011.

The Basel II framework includes capital requirements related to 
operational risk in the banking and trust operating segment. 
Under Basel II, CWB uses the Standardized Approach (TSA) for 
operational risk. Group Risk Management is responsible for the 
continual enhancement of the group-wide Operational Risk 
Framework and the ongoing evolution of CWB’s approach to 
operational risk management with oversight by ALCO and the 
Board of Directors. 

Following is a summary of strategies and factors that help 
minimize operational risk:

Management
•  Knowledgeable and experienced management team 

committed to sound management and the preservation of  
a highly ethical culture;

•  Very clear communication of “tone at the top,” which supports 

effective risk management reporting;

•  Flat organization structure with management close to their 

operations, which facilitates effective internal communication;

•  Organizational surveys on employee engagement and 

corporate culture;

•  Communication of the importance of effective risk management 
to all levels of CWB through training and policy implementation; 
and,

•  Management that is well versed on the Bank’s operational risk 

tolerance and appetite.

framework and supporting policies
•  A mature company-wide Operational Risk Framework that 
uses a common language of risk coupled with programs 
and methodologies for identification, measurement, control, 
reporting and management of operational risk;

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

•  An annual anonymous employee survey on the internal 

control environment;

•  Adoption of the COSO (Committee of Sponsoring Organizations 
of the Treadway Commission) for Smaller Business framework 
for internal control assessment;

•  Ongoing enhancements to CWB’s fraud prevention processes 

and policies; 

•  Regular meetings of ALCO, Canadian Direct’s Operational Risk 

Committee and the risk committees of CWT and Valiant;

•  Regular meetings of the Bank’s Operations Committee;

•  Established “whistleblower” processes and employee codes 

of conduct;

•  Certification of National Leasing under ISO 9001 standards for 

quality management and quality management systems;

•  Operational risk assessments conducted by business managers 
closest to the identified risks that are annually reviewed and 
reported to ALCO and the Board;

•  Regular internal audits for compliance and the effectiveness 
of procedural controls by a strong, independent internal 
audit group;

•  Centralized reporting of operating losses to senior 

management and the Board;

•  Maintenance of a company-wide outsourcing risk 

management program;

•  Continual assessment and benchmarking of the amount and 
type of business insurance to ensure coverage is appropriate;

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

•  Effective change management processes supported by a 
designated committee comprised of both executive and 
senior management;

•  Continual review and upgrading of systems and procedures; 

and,

•  Continual updating and testing of procedures and contingency 
plans for disaster recovery and business continuity (including 
pandemic planning).

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.

general Business and Economic conditions
CWB primarily operates in Western Canada. As a result, its 
earnings are impacted by the general business and economic 
conditions of the four western provinces. The conditions include 
short-term and long-term interest rates, resource commodity 
prices, inflation, exchange rates, consumer, business and 
government spending, fluctuations in debt and capital markets, 
as well as the strength of the economies in which CWB and its 
customers operate. 

level of competition
CWB’s performance is impacted by the level of competition 
in the markets in which it operates. Each of CWB’s businesses 
operates in highly competitive markets. Customer retention may 
be influenced by many factors, including relative service levels, 
the prices and attributes of products and services, changes in 
products and services, and actions taken by competitors.

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

81

Regulatory and legal Risk 
The businesses operated by CWB and its subsidiaries are highly 
regulated through laws and regulations that have been put 
in place by various federal and provincial governments and 
regulators. Changes to laws and regulations, including changes 
in their interpretation or implementation, could adversely 
affect CWB. CWB’s failure to comply with applicable laws, 
regulations, industry codes or regulatory expectations could 
result in sanctions, financial penalties and costs associated with 
litigation that could adversely impact earnings and damage 
reputation. Although regulatory and legal risks are largely 
outside of management’s direct control and cannot be completely 
eliminated, CWB takes what it believes to be reasonable and 
prudent measures designed to ensure compliance with 
governing laws and regulations, including its legislative 
compliance framework.

Over the past several years, the level of supervisory oversight of all 
federally regulated Canadian financial institutions has increased 
significantly in terms of both regulation and new standards. This 
includes amplified supervisory activities, more frequent data 
and information requests from regulators, and expected early 
adoption of the more stringent requirements of Basel III capital 
and liquidity standards. Global standards created under Basel 
III to more closely manage and monitor risks for internationally 
active banks will likely be applied uniformly to all Canadian 
banks, including much smaller institutions like CWB that are 
not internationally active. These regulations also impact CWB’s 
ability to compete against non-OSFI regulated entities. Effective 
management of regulatory risk and compliance in the current 
environment requires, and is expected to continue to require, 
considerable internal resources. Notwithstanding the additional 
resources, the volume and pace of new and amended regulations 
and standards increases the risk of unintended non-compliance. 

Accuracy and completeness of information 
on customers and counterparties
CWB and its subsidiaries depend on the accuracy and 
completeness of information about customers and 
counterparties. In deciding whether to extend credit or enter 
into other transactions with customers and counterparties, CWB 
and its subsidiaries may rely on information furnished by them, 
including financial statements, appraisals, external credit ratings 
and other financial information. CWB and its subsidiaries may also 
rely on the representations of customers and counterparties as 
to the accuracy and completeness of that information and, with 
respect to financial statements, on the reports of auditors. CWB’s 
financial condition and earnings could be negatively impacted to 
the extent it relies on financial statements that do not comply with 
GAAP, that are materially misleading, or that do not fairly present, 
in all material respects, the financial condition and results of 
operations of the customer or counterparties.

Ability to Execute growth initiatives
As part of its long-term corporate strategy, CWB intends 
to continue growing its business through a combination 
of organic growth and strategic acquisitions. The ability to 
successfully grow its business will be dependent on a number 
of factors, including identification of accretive new business or 
acquisition opportunities, negotiation of purchase agreements 
on satisfactory terms and prices, approval of acquisitions by 
regulatory authorities, securing satisfactory regulatory capital 
and financing arrangements and integration of newly acquired 
operations into the existing business. All of these activities may 
be more difficult to implement or may take longer to execute than 
management anticipates. Further, any significant expansion of 
the business may increase the operating complexity and divert 
management’s attention away from established or ongoing 
business activities. Any failure to manage acquisition strategies 
successfully could have a material adverse impact on CWB’s 
business, financial condition and results of operations.

information Systems and technology
CWB and its subsidiaries are highly dependent upon information 
technology systems. Various third-parties provide key 
components of infrastructure and applications. Disruptions in 
the Bank’s information technology systems, whether attributed 
to internal or external factors, and including potential disruptions 
in the services provided by various third parties, could adversely 
affect the ability of CWB and its subsidiaries to conduct regular 
business and/or deliver products and services to customers. The 
Bank has a number of significant technology projects underway, 
including the eventual replacement of CWB’s core banking system. 

Reputation Risk
Reputation risk is the risk to earnings and capital from negative 
public opinion. Negative public opinion can result from actual or 
alleged misconduct in any number of activities, but often involves 
questions about business ethics and integrity, competence, 
corporate governance practices, quality and accuracy of financial 
reporting disclosures, or quality of products and service. 
Negative public opinion could adversely affect the ability to keep 
and attract customers and could expose CWB to litigation or 
regulatory action.

other factors
CWB cautions that the above discussion of risk factors is not 
exhaustive. Other factors beyond CWB’s control that may affect 
future results include changes in tax laws, technological changes, 
unexpected changes in consumer spending and saving habits, 
timely development and introduction of new products, and the 
anticipation of and success in managing the associated risks.

82

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

updated Share information
As at December 1, 2011, there were 75,463,313 common shares 
outstanding. Also outstanding were employee stock options, 
which are or will be exercisable for up to 3,532,272 common 
shares for maximum proceeds of $75.4 million. 

On December 5, 2011, the Board of Directors declared a quarterly 
cash dividend of $0.15 per common share payable on January 4, 2012 

controls and Procedures
As of October 31, 2011, an evaluation was carried out of the 
effectiveness of the Bank’s disclosure controls and procedures. 
Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief 
Financial Officer will certify that the design and operating 
effectiveness of those disclosure controls and procedures 
were effective.

Also at October 31, 2011, an evaluation was carried out of the 
effectiveness of internal controls over financial reporting to 
provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial 
reporting and financial statement compliance with GAAP. Based 
on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial 
Officer will certify that the design and operating effectiveness of 
internal controls over financial reporting were effective.

This Management’s Discussion and Analysis is dated 
December 5, 2011. 

to shareholders of record on December 22, 2011. The Board of 
Directors also declared a cash dividend of $0.453125 per Series 3 
Preferred Share payable on January 31, 2012 to shareholders of 
record on January 20, 2012.

These evaluations were conducted in accordance with the 
standards of COSO for Smaller Business, a recognized control 
model, and the requirements of Multilateral Instrument 
52-109 of the Canadian Securities Administrators. A Disclosure 
Committee, comprised of members of senior management, 
assists the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer in 
their responsibilities. Management’s evaluation of controls can 
only provide reasonable, not absolute, assurance that all control 
issues that may result in material misstatement, if any, have 
been detected.

There were no changes in the Bank’s internal controls over 
financial reporting that occurred during the year ended 
October 31, 2011 that have materially affected, or are reasonably 
likely to materially affect, the Bank’s internal control over 
financial reporting.

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

83

Financial Statements

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 information presented, which 
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 Office of 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 (CSA).

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 
represented 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.

We, as the Bank’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, 
will certify Canadian Western Bank’s annual filings with the CSA 
as required by Multilateral Instrument 52-109 (Certification of 
Disclosure in Issuers’ Annual and Interim Filings).

The system of internal controls is also supported by our internal 
audit department, which carries out periodic internal audits 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.

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 
the MD&A, 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 certain 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 Governance 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 Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions Canada, 
at least once a year, makes such examination and inquiry into 
the affairs of the Bank and its federally regulated subsidiaries as 
is deemed necessary or expedient to satisfy themselves that the 
provisions of the relevant Acts, having reference to the safety of the 
depositors and policyholders, are being duly observed and that the 
Bank is in a sound financial condition.

KPMG 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.

Larry M. Pollock 
President and Chief Executive Officer 

December 5, 2011

Tracey C. Ball, FCA, ICD.D 
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

84

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

Independent Auditors’ Report

To the Shareholders of Canadian Western Bank
We have audited the accompanying consolidated financial 
statements of Canadian Western Bank, which comprise 
the consolidated balance sheets as at October 31, 2011 and 
October 31, 2010 and the consolidated statements of income, 
comprehensive income, shareholders’ equity and cash flows 
for the years then ended, and notes, comprising a summary of 
significant accounting policies and other explanatory information.

Management’s Responsibility  
for the Consolidated Financial Statements
Management is responsible for the preparation and fair 
presentation of these consolidated financial statements in 
accordance with Canadian generally accepted accounting 
principles, and for such internal control as management 
determines is necessary to enable the preparation of consolidated 
financial statements that are free from material misstatement, 
whether due to fraud or error.

Auditors’ Responsibility
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 comply with ethical 
requirements and plan and perform an audit to obtain reasonable 
assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements 
are free from material misstatement.

An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence 
about the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial 
statements. The procedures selected depend on our judgment, 
including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement 
of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to fraud 
or error. In making those risk assessments, we consider internal 
control relevant to the entity’s preparation and fair presentation 
of the consolidated financial statements in order to design audit 
procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not 
for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness 
of the entity’s internal control. An audit also includes evaluating 
the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the 
reasonableness of accounting estimates made by management, 
as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated 
financial statements.

We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained in our 
audits is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our 
audit opinion.

Opinion
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present 
fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position 
of Canadian Western Bank as at October 31, 2011 and October 
31, 2010, and its consolidated results of operations and its 
consolidated cash flows for the years then ended in accordance 
with Canadian generally accepted accounting principles.

KPMG LLP 
Chartered Accountants 
Edmonton, Alberta

December 5, 2011

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

85

Consolidated Balance Sheets 
As at October 31
($ thousands)

Assets
Cash Resources
Cash and non-interest bearing deposits with financial institutions
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 loans

 Allowance for credit losses

Other

Property and equipment
Goodwill
Intangible assets
Insurance related
Derivative related
Other assets

Total Assets

Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
Deposits

Payable on demand
Payable after notice
Payable on a fixed date
Deposit from Canadian Western Bank Capital Trust

Other

Cheques and other items in transit
Insurance related
Derivative related
Other liabilities

Subordinated  Debentures

Conventional
Shareholders’ Equity
Preferred shares
Common shares
Contributed surplus
Retained earnings
Accumulated other comprehensive income

Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity

Contingent Liabilities and Commitments

(Note 3)

 $ 

2011 

2010 

73,318 
 233,964 
 5,053 
 312,335 

 644,356 
 380,031 
 901,317 
 1,925,704 
 – 

 3,008,545 
 9,283,406 
 12,291,951 
 (70,808)
 12,221,143 

 $ 

8,965 
 168,998 
 9,981 
 187,944 

 564,694 
 88,478 
 857,015 
 1,510,187 
 177,954 

 2,479,957 
 8,095,148 
 10,575,105 
 (78,641)
 10,496,464 

 72,674 
 37,852 
 37,420 
 56,734 
 – 
 108,173 
 312,853 
 $  14,772,035 

 65,978 
 37,723 
 43,420 
 59,652 
 134 
 122,235 
 329,142 
 $  12,701,691 

 $ 

583,267 
 3,407,590 
 8,403,832 
 105,000 
 12,499,689 

 $ 

530,608 
 2,999,599 
 7,177,560 
 105,000 
 10,812,767 

 45,986 
 149,130 
 436 
 238,228 
 433,780 

 39,628 
 149,396 
 992 
 235,865 
 425,881 

(Note 4)

(Note 5)

(Note 6)

(Note 7)

(Note 9)

(Note 10)

(Note 10)

(Note 11)

(Note 12)

(Note 13)

(Note 14)

(Note 15)

(Note 16)

(Note 12)

(Note 17)

(Note 18)

 545,000 

 315,000 

(Note 19)

(Note 19)

(Note 21)

 209,750 
 408,014 
 21,884 
 650,028 
 3,890 
 1,293,566 
 $  14,772,035 

 209,750 
 279,352 
 21,291 
 614,710 
 22,940 
 1,148,043 
 $  12,701,691 

Allan W. Jackson 
Chair 

Larry M. Pollock 
President and Chief Executive Officer

86

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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

Credit related
Insurance, net
Trust and wealth management services
Gains on sale of securities, net
Retail services
Securitization revenue
Foreign exchange gains
Other

Net Interest and Other Income
Non-Interest Expenses

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

(Note 7)

(Note 22)

Net Income before Income Taxes and Non-Controlling Interest in Subsidiary
Income Taxes

(Note 25)

Non-Controlling Interest in Subsidiary
Net Income

Preferred Share Dividends
Net Income Available to Common Shareholders

Average number of common shares (in thousands)
Average number of diluted common shares (in thousands)

Earnings Per Common Share

Basic
Diluted

(Note 26)

2011 

2010 

 $ 

 $ 

 $ 

 $ 

597,285 
 44,177 
 4,062 
 645,524 

 245,448 
 26,452 
 271,900 
 373,624 
 22,179 
 351,445 

 32,821 
 20,250 
 19,050 
 10,306 
 9,486 
 3,969 
 3,488 
 6,961 
 106,331 
 457,776 

 141,865 
 36,738 
 42,449 
 1,399 
 222,451 
 235,325 
 56,948 
 178,377 
 228 
178,149 

 15,208 
162,941 
 72,205 
 76,705 

2.26 
 2.12 

 $ 

 $ 

 $ 

 $ 

511,274 
 40,785 
 5,528 
 557,587 

 222,356 
 17,753 
 240,109 
 317,478 
 20,413 
 297,065 

 31,550 
 21,716 
 17,316 
 12,447 
 9,017 
 4,285 
 2,422 
 6,842 
 105,595 
 402,660 

 123,972 
 31,448 
 34,511 
 1,549 
 191,480 
 211,180 
 47,344 
 163,836 
 215 
163,621 

 15,208 
148,413 
 65,757 
 72,329 

2.26 
 2.05 

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

87

 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity 
For the Year Ended October 31
($ thousands)

Retained Earnings
Balance at beginning of year

Net income
Dividends - Preferred shares
- Common shares

Warrants purchased and cancelled
Issuance costs on common shares

Balance at end of year
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Balance at beginning of year

Other comprehensive income (loss)

Balance at end of year
Total retained earnings and accumulated other comprehensive income
Preferred Shares
Balance at beginning and end of year
Common Shares
Balance at beginning of year

Issued on exercise of warrants
Issued under dividend reinvestment plan
Transferred from contributed surplus on the exercise or exchange of options
Issued on exercise of options
Issued on acquisition of subsidiary

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

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

Balance at end of year

Total Shareholders’ Equity

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME 
For the Year Ended October 31
($ thousands)

Net Income
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), net of tax
Available-for-sale securities

Gains (losses) from change in fair value (1)
Reclassification to other income (2)

Derivatives designated as cash flow hedges

Gains from change in fair value (3)
Reclassification to net interest income (4)

Comprehensive Income for the Year

(1)  Net of income tax benefit of $4,731 (2010 – tax expense of $5,647).
(2)  Net of income tax benefit of $2,966 (2010 – $3,579).
(3)  Net of income tax expense of nil (2010 – $7).
(4)  Net of income tax benefit of nil (2010 – $672).

88

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

(Note 19)

(Note 19)

(Note 19)

(Note 34)

(Note 20)

2011

2010

 $ 

614,710
 178,149
 (15,208)
 (39,177)
 (88,446)
 –
 650,028

 22,940
 (19,050)
 3,890
 653,918

 $ 

511,784
 163,621
 (15,208)
 (28,929)
 (16,453)
 (105)
 614,710

 19,119
 3,821
 22,940
 637,650

 209,750

 209,750

 279,352
 115,716
 5,941
 4,009
 2,996
 –
 408,014

 21,291
 4,602
 (4,009)
21,884

 226,480
 323
 2,922
 3,181
 3,864
 42,582
 279,352

 19,366
 5,106
 (3,181)
 21,291

$  1,293,566

$ 

1,148,043

2011
178,149

 $ 

2010
163,621

 $ 

 (11,710)
 (7,340)
 (19,050)

 –
 –
 –
 (19,050)

 14,285
 (8,868)
 5,417

 17
 (1,613)
 (1,596)
 3,821

 $ 

159,099

 $ 

167,442

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows 
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
Current income taxes receivable and payable
Amortization of fair value of employee stock options
Accrued interest receivable and payable, net
Future income taxes, net
Gain on sale of securities, net
Other items, net

Cash Flows from Financing Activities

Deposits, net
Common shares issued
Debentures issued
Debentures redeemed
Dividends
Warrants purchased and cancelled
Securities sold under repurchase agreements, net
Issuance costs on share capital
Long-term debt repaid

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
Property and equipment
Acquisition of subsidiaries

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 and non-interest bearing deposits with financial institutions
Cheques and other items in transit (included in Cash Resources)
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

(Note 19)

(Note 18)

(Note 18)

(Note 19)

(Note 34)

2011 

2010 

$ 

178,149 

$ 

163,621 

 22,179 
 19,748 
 5,036 
 4,602 
 2,529 
 (11,212)
 (10,306)
 35,048 
 245,773 

 1,686,922 
 124,653 
 300,000 
 (70,000)
 (54,385)
 (88,446)
 – 
 – 
 – 
 1,898,744 

 (65,414)
 (4,725,843)
 2,095,077 
 2,192,675 
 177,954 
 (1,746,858)
 (19,041)
 – 
 (2,091,450)
 53,067 
 (20,682)
32,385 

73,318 
 5,053 
 (45,986)
32,385 

268,272 
63,034 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

 20,413 
 13,816 
 (2,164)
 5,107 
 (4,012)
 556 
 (12,447)
 41,148 
 226,038 

 1,195,528 
 7,109 
 – 
 (60,000)
 (44,137)
 (16,453)
 (300,242)
 (105)
 (270,630)
 511,070 

 95,168 
 (2,966,470)
 2,717,950 
 617,444 
 (177,954)
 (957,478)
 (21,079)
 (53,531)
 (745,950)
 (8,842)
 (11,840)
(20,682)

8,965 
 9,981 
 (39,628)
(20,682)

251,739 
48,953 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

89

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
For the Years Ended October 31, 2011 and 2010 
($ thousands, except per share amounts)

1.  BASIS OF PRESENTATION

These consolidated financial statements of Canadian Western 
Bank (CWB or the Bank) 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 and 
in the following notes. 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 and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities 
as at the date of the financial statements as well as 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, fair value of 
financial instruments, goodwill and intangible assets, provision 
for unpaid claims and adjustment expenses, future income 
tax assets and liabilities, other than temporary impairment of 
securities and fair value of employee stock options. 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 entities whose operations are 
controlled by the Bank and are corporations in which the Bank 
is the beneficial owner. See Note 35 for details of the subsidiaries 
and affiliate.

b)  Business Combinations

Business acquisitions are accounted for using the purchase method.

c)  Translation of Foreign Currencies

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, except for unrealized 
foreign exchange gains and losses on available–for–sale securities 
that are included in other comprehensive income.

90

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

d)  Specific Accounting Policies

To facilitate a better understanding of the Bank’s consolidated 
financial statements, the significant accounting policies are 
disclosed in the notes, where applicable, with related financial 
disclosures by major caption:

Note 

Topic

2 
3 
4 
5 

6 
7 
8 
9 
10 
11 
12 
13 
14 
15 
16 
17 
18 
19 
20 
21 
22 
23 
24 
25 
26 
27 
28 
29 
30 
31 
32 
33 
34 
35 
36 

Financial instruments
Cash resources
Securities
Securities purchased under resale agreements and 
securities sold under repurchase agreements
Loans 
Allowance for credit losses
Securitization
Property and equipment
Goodwill and intangible assets
Insurance related other assets
Derivative financial instruments
Other assets
Deposits
Capital trust securities
Insurance related other liabilities
Other liabilities
Subordinated debentures
Capital stock
Stock based compensation
Contingent liabilities and commitments
Insurance operations
Disclosures on rate regulation
Employee future benefits
Income taxes
Earnings per common share
Assets under administration and management
Related party transactions
Interest rate sensitivity
Fair value of financial instruments
Risk management
Capital management
Segmented information
Acquisition of subsidiary
Subsidiaries and affiliate
Comparative figures 

e)  Future Accounting Changes

International Financial Reporting Standards
The Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants (CICA) has 
transitioned Canadian GAAP for publicly accountable entities to 
International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). The Bank’s 
consolidated financial statements will be prepared in accordance 
with IFRS for the fiscal year commencing November 1, 2011 and 
will include IFRS comparative information for the prior year. 

Initial Transition:
The Bank has substantially completed a four phase project 
underway to identify and evaluate the impact of the transition to 
IFRS on the consolidated financial statements and develop a plan 
to complete the transition. The project plan includes the following 
phases – diagnostic, design and planning, solution development, 
and implementation. The Bank is currently working on the final 
implementation phase. 

The quantitative impact of the transition to IFRS on the Bank’s 
consolidated financial statements for current standards has not  

yet been finalized. However, the most significant accounting 
differences identified include business combinations, 
derecognition of securitized financial assets, consolidation,  
and impairment of available–for–sale securities. 

Future IFRS Changes:
CWB continues to monitor the International Accounting Standards 
Board’s proposed changes to standards. Although not expected 
to materially impact the Bank’s 2012 consolidated financial 
statements, these proposed changes may have a significant 
impact on the Bank’s future financial statements. 

2.  FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

As a financial institution, most of the Bank’s balance sheet is 
comprised of financial instruments and the majority of net 
income results from gains, losses, income and expenses related 
to the same.

Financial instrument assets include cash resources, securities, 
securities purchased under resale agreements, loans and 
derivative financial instruments. Financial instrument liabilities 
include deposits, securities sold under repurchase agreements, 
derivative financial instruments and subordinated debentures.

3.  CASH RESOURCES

Cash resources have been designated as available–for–sale and 
are reported on the consolidated balance sheets at fair value with 
changes in fair value reported in other comprehensive income, net 
of income taxes.

4.  SECURITIES

The use of financial instruments exposes the Bank to credit, 
liquidity and market risk. A discussion of how these are managed 
can be found in the Risk Management section of the 2011 
Annual Report.

Income and expenses are classified as to source, either securities 
or loans for income, and deposits or subordinated debentures 
for expense. Gains on the sale of securities, net, and fair value 
changes in certain derivatives are classified to other income.

Included in deposits with regulated financial institutions 
are available–for–sale financial instruments reported on the 
consolidated balance sheets at the fair value of $233,964 
(2010 – $168,998), which is $815 (2010 – $2,104) higher than 
amortized cost.

Securities have been designated as available–for–sale, are 
accounted for at settlement date and recorded on the consolidated 
balance sheets at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in 
other comprehensive income, net of income taxes.

Securities are purchased with the original intention to hold 
the instrument to maturity or until market conditions render 
alternative investments more attractive. If an impairment in value 

is other than temporary, any write–down to net realizable value 
is reported in the consolidated statements of income. 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.

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

Maturities

Within

1 Year

1 to

3 Years

3 to

5 Years

Over 5

Years

2011

Total

Carrying

Value

2010

Total

Carrying

Value

Securities issued or guaranteed by

Canada

A province or municipality

Other debt securities

Equity securities

Preferred shares

Common shares

Total

$ 

409,806 

$ 

117,262 

$ 

117,288 

$ 

– 

$ 

644,356 

$ 

564,694 

 148,638 

 105,160 

 58,838 

 171,493 

 171,280 

 16,109 

 18,057 

 264,434 

 196,417 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 1,275 

 10,783 

 18,222 

 100,642 

 380,031 

 303,545 

 497,130 

 100,642 

 88,478 

 256,544 

 511,228 

 89,243 

$ 

681,661 

$ 

612,027 

$ 

501,094 

$ 

130,922 

$  1,925,704 

$ 

1,510,187 

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

91

 
The analysis of unrealized gains and losses on securities reflected on the balance sheet is as follows:

2011

2010

Amortized

Unrealized

Unrealized

Cost

Gains

Losses

Fair

Value

Amortized

Unrealized

Unrealized

Cost

Gains

Losses

Fair 

Value

Securities issued or

guaranteed by
Canada

A province or 

municipality

Other debt securities

Equity securities

Preferred shares

Common shares

$ 

645,001  $ 

25  $ 

670  $  644,356 

$ 

564,833 

$ 

69 

$ 

208 

$ 

564,694 

 380,510 

 301,718 

 522 

 2,087 

 490,218 

 103,637 

 10,448 

 5,718 

 1,001 

 260 

 3,536 

 8,713 

 380,031 

 303,545 

 497,130 

 100,642 

 87,755 

 253,132 

 492,897 

 81,574 

 737 

 3,493 

 20,614 

 9,305 

 14 

 81 

 88,478 

 256,544 

 2,283 

 1,636 

 511,228 

 89,243 

Total

$  1,921,084  $ 

18,800  $ 

14,180  $  1,925,704 

$  1,480,191 

$ 

34,218 

$ 

4,222 

$ 

1,510,187 

The securities portfolio is primarily comprised of high quality debt 
instruments, preferred shares and common shares that are not 
held for trading purposes and, where applicable, are typically 
held until maturity. Fluctuations in value are generally attributed 

to changes in interest rates, market spreads and shifts in the 
interest rate curve. Unrealized losses at year end are considered to 
be temporary in nature. Volatility in equity markets also leads to 
fluctuations in value, particularly for common shares.

5.  SECURITIES PURCHASED UNDER RESALE AGREEMENTS AND SECURITIES SOLD UNDER REPURCHASE 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. The difference between the 
cost of the purchase and the predetermined proceeds to be received 
on a resale agreement is recorded as securities interest income. 

Securities sold under repurchase 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. 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. 

Securities purchased under resale agreements have been 
designated as available-for-sale and are reported on the 
consolidated balance sheets at fair value with changes in fair value 
reported in other comprehensive income, net of income taxes.

Interest earned or paid is recorded in interest income or expense 
as earned.

6.  LOANS

Loans, including leases, are recorded at amortized cost and are 
stated net of unearned income, unamortized premiums and an 
allowance for credit losses (Note 7). 

Interest income is recorded using the effective interest method, 
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 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 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 to the carrying value of the loan. Impaired loans are 
returned to performing status when the timely collection of both 
principal and interest is reasonably assured, 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. Premiums paid on the 
acquisition of loan portfolios are amortized to interest income over 
the expected term of the loans.

92

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

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

2011

Gross

Net

Gross

Impaired

Specific

Impaired

Amount

Amount

Allowance

$  2,018,627  $ 

24,983  $ 

1,173  $ 

Loans
23,810  $ 

2010

Gross

Impaired

Amount

Gross

Amount

Net

Specific

Impaired

Allowance

1,793,181  $ 

24,534  $ 

1,288  $ 

Consumer and personal
Real estate (1)

Equipment financing

Commercial
Total (2)
General allowance (3)
Net impaired loans after

general allowance

 4,730,693 

 2,412,864 

 3,129,767 

 46,638 

 15,325 

 10,041 

 2,516 

 5,321 

 1,369 

 44,122 

 10,004 

 4,124,235 

 1,943,716 

 8,672 

 2,713,973 

 82,799 

 27,918 

 7,956 

$ 12,291,951  $ 

96,987  $ 

10,379 

 86,608  $  10,575,105  $ 

143,207  $ 

 4,880 

 10,215 

 2,655 

19,038 

 (60,429)

$ 

26,179 

Loans

23,246 

 77,919 

 17,703 

 5,301 

 124,169 

 (59,603)

$ 

64,566 

(1)  Multi-family residential mortgages are presented as real estate loans in this table.
(2)  Gross impaired loans include foreclosed assets with a carrying value of $3,241 (2010 – $867) which are held for sale.
(3)  The general allowance for credit risk is not allocated by loan type.

Outstanding impaired loans, net of allowance for credit losses, by provincial location of security, are as follows:

2011

Specific

Allowance

5,157 

 1,417 

 785 

 309 

 2,711 

Gross

Impaired

Amount

$ 

53,674 

$ 

 35,738 

 2,771 

 934 

 3,870 

96,987 

$ 

Net

Impaired

Loans

$ 

48,517 

$ 

 34,321 

 1,986 

 625 

 1,159 

 86,608 

 (60,429)

Gross

Impaired

Amount

98,973 

 38,543 

 2,109 

 329 

 3,253 

2010

Specific

Allowance

$ 

14,515 

$ 

 1,259 

 1,114 

 233 

 1,917 

19,038 

Net

Impaired

Loans

84,458 

 37,284 

 995 

 96 

 1,336 

 124,169 

 (59,603)

$ 

10,379 

$ 

143,207 

$ 

$ 

26,179 

$ 

64,566 

Alberta

British Columbia

Saskatchewan

Manitoba

Other

Total
General allowance (1)
Net impaired loans after

general allowance

(1)  The general allowance for credit risk is not allocated by province.

During the year, interest recognized as income on impaired loans totaled $2,620 (2010 – $3,392).

Gross impaired loans exclude certain past due loans where payment of interest or principal is contractually in arrears, which are not classified 
as impaired. Details of such past due loans that have not been included in the gross impaired amount are as follows:

As at October 31, 2011
Residential mortgages

Other loans

As at October 31, 2010

Residential mortgages
Other loans (1)

(1)  Amounts at October 31, 2010 did not include National Leasing.

1 - 30 days

31 - 60 days

61 - 90 days

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

9,464 

 14,506 

23,970 

5,762 

 17,877 

23,639 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

6,574 

 9,850 

16,424 

7,933 

 33,938 

41,871 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

349 

 1,447 

1,796 

3,912 

 5,731 

9,643 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

More than

90 days

242 

 110 

352 

– 

 4 

4 

Total

16,629 

 25,913 

42,542 

17,607 

 57,550 

75,157 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

93

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The composition of the Bank’s loan portfolio by geographic region and industry sector is as follows:

OCTOBER 31, 2011  
($ millions)
Loans to Individuals

British  
Columbia

Alberta Saskatchewan

Manitoba

Other

Total(1)

Composition  
Percentage

Residential mortgages (2)
Other loans

$ 

Loans to Businesses
Commercial
Construction and real estate (3)
Equipment financing 
Energy

Total Loans
Composition Percentage

OCTOBER 31, 2010  
($ millions)
Loans to Individuals

Residential mortgages (2)
Other loans

$ 

$ 

Loans to Businesses
Commercial
Construction and real estate (3)
Equipment financing
Energy

Total Loans
Composition Percentage

$ 

1,325 
 72 
 1,397 

 905 
 1,450 
 378 
 – 
 2,733 
4,130 

$ 

$ 

1,138 
 112 
 1,250 

 1,625 
 1,646 
 821 
 363 
 4,455 
5,705 

$ 

$ 

180 
 12 
 192 

 125 
 240 
 150 
 – 
 515 
707 

$ 

$ 

71 
 3 
 74 

 103 
 71 
 72 
 – 
 246 
320 

$ 

$ 

$ 

295 
 1 
 296 

 347 
 158 
 629 
 – 
 1,134 
1,430 

$ 

3,009 
 200 
 3,209 

 3,105 
 3,565 
 2,050 
 363 
 9,083 
12,292 

 33% 

 46% 

 6% 

 3% 

 12% 

 100%

1,046 
 66 
 1,112 

 753 

 1,272 
 329 
 – 
 2,354 
3,466 

$ 

$ 

1,040 
 104 
 1,144 

 1,447 

 1,517 
 710 
 265 
 3,939 
5,083 

$ 

$ 

145 
 14 
 159 

 111 

 223 
 118 
 – 
 452 
611 

$ 

$ 

68 
 3 
 71 

 95 

 70 
 58 
 – 
 223 
294 

$ 

181 
 1 
 182 

 291 

 184 
 464 
 – 
 939 
$  1,121 

$ 

$ 

2,480 
 188 
 2,668 

 2,697 

 3,266 
 1,679 
 265 
 7,907 
10,575 

33%

48%

6% 

3%

10%

 100%

(1)  This table does not include an allocation of the allowance for credit losses or deferred revenue and premiums.
(2)  Includes single- and multi-unit residential mortgages and project (interim) mortgages on residential property.
(3) 

Includes commercial term mortgages and project (interim) mortgages for non-residential property.

 24% 
 2 
 26 

 25 
 29 
 17 
 3 
 74 
 100%

 23%
 2 
 25 

 26 

 31 
 16 
 2 
 75 
 100%

7.  ALLOWANCE FOR CREDIT LOSSES

An allowance for credit losses is maintained, which, in management’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.

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.

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 losses inherent in the portfolio that are not 
presently identifiable by management of the Bank on an    

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.

94

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

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

2011

General

Allowance

for Credit

Losses

Specific

Allowance

Balance at beginning of year

$ 

19,038 

$ 

59,603 

$ 

Provision for credit losses

Write-offs

Recoveries

Acquisition of subsidiary

 21,353 

 (32,074)

 2,062 

 – 

 826 

 – 

 – 

 – 

$ 

Total

78,641 

 22,179 

 (32,074)

 2,062 

 – 

Balance at end of year

$ 

10,379 

$ 

60,429 

$ 

70,808 

$ 

2010

General

Allowance

for Credit

Losses

61,153 

 (5,722)

 – 

 – 

 4,172 

59,603 

Specific

Allowance

14,306 

 26,135 

 (24,599)

 600 

 2,596 

19,038 

$ 

$ 

Total

75,459 

 20,413 

 (24,599)

 600 

 6,768 

78,641 

$ 

$ 

8.  SECURITIZATION

As a result of the acquisition of National Leasing Group Inc. 
(National Leasing) on February 1, 2010 (see Note 34), the Bank 
participates in securitization activities. Securitization consists of the 
transfer of equipment leases to an independent trust or other third 
party, which buys the leases and may issue securities to investors. 
Securitizations are accounted for as sales as the Bank surrenders 
control of the transferred assets and receives consideration other 
than beneficial interests in the transferred assets. 

When the Bank has an entitlement to participate in future cash 
flows, the retained interests, net of estimated servicing costs, are 
classified by the Bank as available-for-sale and included in other 
assets. When the Bank has received the full proceeds in cash, a 
reserve for estimated credit and prepayment losses and a reserve 
for future servicing costs are included in other liabilities. The 
retained interests represent the maximum exposure to losses on 
the securitized assets. On a quarterly basis, the fair value of the 
retained interests in securitized assets is reviewed for impairment. 
Fair value is subject to credit, prepayment and interest rate risks.

Cash flows received from securitization activities were as follows:

Gains on the sale of leases and servicing revenues are reported in 
other income – securitization revenue. In determining the gain, the 
carrying amount of the leases sold is allocated between the assets 
sold and the retained interests based on their relative fair value 
at the date of transfer. The Bank estimates fair value based on the 
present value of future expected cash flows using management’s 
best estimates of the key assumptions - credit losses, prepayment 
speeds and discount rates commensurate with the risks involved. 
There have been no securitizations during 2011 or 2010.

The leases are sold on a fully serviced basis. Accordingly, upon 
each securitization a servicing liability is recorded to recognize the 
potential reduction in cash flows receivable as if an amount was 
paid by the securitizor to a replacement servicer. The estimated 
fees that would otherwise be payable to a replacement servicer 
form the basis of determination of the fair value of the servicing 
liability that is charged against the gain at the time of recognition 
of the sale of securitized assets.

Proceeds from new securitizations

Cash flow received from retained interests

Losses reimbursed to securitizor

Early termination option payments

Total

For the

For the nine

year ended

months ended

October 31, 2011

October 31, 2010

$ 

– 

$ 

 8,326 

 (1,162)

 – 

$ 

7,164 

$ 

– 

 8,300 

 (2,520)

 (13,141)

(7,361)

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

95

 
 
The following table presents information about off-balance sheet gross impaired leases and net write-offs for securitized assets  
as at October 31, 2011, which are not included in Note 6 – Loans and Note 7 – Allowance for Credit Losses:

Equipment financing securitization
As at October 31, 2011
As at October 31, 2010

Gross

Leases

Gross

Impaired

Leases

Write-offs,

Net of

Recoveries

$ 
$ 

91,293 
199,097 

$ 
$ 

562 
1,143 

$ 
$ 

1,280 
2,306 

As at October 31, 2011, key economic assumptions and the sensitivity of the current fair value (FV) of residual cash flows to immediate  
10% and 20% adverse changes in those assumptions are as follows:

Fair value of retained interests
Weighted-average life (in years)
Annual prepayment rate
Expected credit losses
Residual cash flows discount rate

Key Economic

Impact on

FV of 10%

Assumptions Adverse Change
$ 

Impact on

FV of 20%

Adverse Change

5,899 
0.88 
7.50%
1.90%
3.08%

$ 

$ 

42 
 41 
 16 

85 
 82 
 32 

These sensitivities are hypothetical and should be used with 
caution. Changes in fair value based on a 10% or 20% variation 
in assumptions generally cannot be extrapolated because the 
relationship of the change in assumption to the change in fair value 
may not be linear. Also, in the above table, the effect of a variation 

in a particular assumption on the fair value of the retained interests 
is calculated without changing any other assumption. In reality, 
changes in one factor may result in changes in another, which 
might magnify or counteract the sensitivities.

9.  PROPERTY 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 ten years, and leasehold 
improvements – term of the lease. Gains and losses on disposal  
are recorded in other income in the year of disposal. Land, buildings 

Land
Buildings
Computer equipment
Leasehold improvements
Office equipment and furniture
Total

and equipment, if no longer in use or considered impaired, are 
written down to fair value.

Operating leases primarily comprise branch and office premises 
and are not capitalized. Total costs, including free rent periods and 
step-rent increases, are expensed on a straight-line basis over the 
lease term.

Accumulated
 Depreciation and
Amortization
– 
 $ 
 4,975 
 39,240 
 22,122 
 17,898 
84,235 

 $ 

Cost
4,265 
 19,174 
 55,075 
 50,050 
 28,345 
156,909 

2011
Net Book
Value
4,265 
 14,199 
 15,835 
 27,928 
 10,447 
72,674 

 $ 

 $ 

2010
Net Book
Value
4,265 
 14,206 
 13,009 
 25,329 
 9,169 
65,978 

 $ 

 $ 

 $ 

 $ 

Depreciation and amortization for the year amounted to $12,345 (2010 – $10,033).

96

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

 
 
 
10.  GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS

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 consolidated 

statements of income over their expected lives not exceeding  
15 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 statements of income in 
the period of impairment.

Goodwill

Identifiable intangible assets

Customer relationships

Non-competition agreements

Trademarks

Others

Total

Accumulated

Cost

Amortization

2011

Net Book

Value

$ 

37,852 

$ 

– 

$ 

37,852 

$ 

 37,668 

 5,731 

 2,206 

 5,578 

 51,183 

 7,856 

 2,726 

 – 

 3,181 

 13,763 

 29,812 

 3,005 

 2,206 

 2,397 

 37,420 

$ 

89,035 

$ 

13,763 

$ 

75,272 

$ 

2010

Net Book

Value

37,723 

 32,506 

 4,137 

 2,206 

 4,571 

 43,420 

81,143 

Amortization of customer relationships and other intangible assets 
for the year amounted to $6,000 (2010 – $4,067). The trademarks 
have an indefinite life and are not subject to amortization. Goodwill 
includes $34,598 (2010 – $34,469) related to the banking and 
trust segment and $3,254 (2010 – $3,254) related to the insurance 

segment. During 2011, goodwill increased $129 due to the 
contingent consideration settlement related to Adroit Investment 
Management Ltd. There were no writedowns of goodwill or 
intangible assets due to impairment.

11.  INSURANCE RELATED OTHER ASSETS

Instalment premiums receivable

Deferred policy acquisition costs

Recoverable on unpaid claims

Reinsurers’ share of unpaid claims and adjustment expenses

Due from reinsurers

Total

12.  DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

$ 

$ 

2011 

31,361 

 11,011 

 6,196 

 6,153 

 2,013 

$ 

56,734 

$ 

2010 

29,391 

 10,510 

 6,326 

 10,949 

 2,476 

 59,652 

Interest rate, foreign exchange and equity contracts such as 
futures, options, swaps, floors and rate locks 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 primarily used to 
reduce the impact of fluctuating interest rates. Equity contracts  
are used to economically offset the return paid on 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.

Designated Hedges
The Bank designates certain derivative financial instruments as 
either a hedge of the fair value of recognized assets or liabilities 
or firm commitments (fair value hedges), or a hedge of highly 
probable future cash flows attributable to a recognized asset 

or liability or a forecasted transaction (cash flow hedges). On 
an ongoing basis, the Bank assesses whether the derivatives 
that are used in hedging transactions are effective in offsetting 
changes in fair values or cash flows of the hedged items. If a 
hedging transaction becomes ineffective or if the derivative is not 
designated as a cash flow hedge, any subsequent change in the 
fair value of the hedging instrument is recognized in earnings. 
As at October 31, 2011 and October 31, 2010, the Bank had no 
derivative financial instruments outstanding that were designated 
as a fair value or cash flow hedge.

Interest income received or interest expense paid on derivative 
financial instruments is accounted for on the accrual basis and 
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 

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

97

 
 
 
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.

Embedded Derivatives
Certain derivatives embedded in other financial instruments, 
such as the return on fixed term deposits that are linked to a stock 
index, are treated as separate derivatives when their economic 
characteristics and risk are not closely related to those of the host 
contract and the combined contract is not carried at fair value. 
Embedded derivatives identified have been separated from the 
host contract and are recorded at fair value.

Fair Value
Derivative financial instruments are recorded on the balance sheet 
at fair value as either other assets or other liabilities with changes in 
fair value related to the effective portion of cash flow interest rate 
hedges recorded in other comprehensive income, net of income 
taxes. Changes in fair value related to the ineffective portion of a 
designated hedge, a derivative not designated as a hedge and all 
other derivative financial instruments are reported in other income 
on the consolidated statements of income.

Use of Derivatives
The Bank enters into derivative financial instruments for risk 
management purposes. Derivative financial instruments are 
financial contracts whose value is derived from an underlying 
interest rate, foreign exchange rate, equity or commodity 
instrument or index.

Derivative financial instruments primarily used by the Bank include:

•  interest rate swaps, which are agreements where two 

counterparties exchange a series of payments based on different 
interest rates applied to a notional amount;

•  equity swap contracts, which are agreements where one 

counterparty agrees to pay or receive from the other cash flows 
based on changes in the value of an equity index as well as a 
designated interest rate applied to a notional amount; and

•  foreign exchange forwards and futures, which are contractual 
obligations to exchange one currency for another at a specified 
price for settlement at a predetermined future date.

Interest rate swaps and other instruments are used as hedging 
devices to control interest rate risk. The Bank enters into these 
interest rate derivative instruments only 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 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. The Asset Liability Committee (ALCO) of the Bank 
establishes and monitors approved counterparties (including an 
assessment of credit worthiness) and maximum notional limits. 
Approved counterparties are limited to rated financial institutions 
or their associated parent/affiliate with a minimum rating of  
A high or equivalent.

Foreign exchange transactions are undertaken only for the 
purposes of meeting the 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 financial position. 

The following table summarizes the derivative 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 within the Capital 
Management section of Management’s Discussion and Analysis.

Replace-

ment

2011

Future

Credit

Credit

Risk-

Risk Weighted

Cost

Exposure Equivalent

Balance

Notional

Amount

Notional

Amount

Replace-

ment

Cost

2010

Future

Credit

Credit 

Risk-

Risk Weighted

Exposure

Equivalent

Balance

Interest rate swaps

$  19,400 

$ 

– 

$ 

97 

$ 

97 

$ 

19 

$  47,550 

$ 

– 

$ 

234 

$ 

234 

$ 

49 

Foreign exchange

contracts

Equity contracts

 6,384 

 – 

Total

$  25,784 

$ 

 62 

 – 

62 

 64 

 – 

 126 

 – 

$ 

161 

$ 

223 

$ 

 53 

 – 

72 

 57,032 

 500 

 132 

 2 

$ 105,082 

$ 

134 

$ 

 570 

 30 

834 

$ 

 702 

 32 

968 

 181 

 6 

$ 

236 

98

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

The following table shows the derivative financial instruments split between those contracts that have a positive fair value (favourable 
contracts) and those that have a negative fair value (unfavourable contracts).

2011

2010

Favourable Contracts

Unfavourable Contracts

Favourable Contracts

Unfavourable Contracts

Notional

Amount

Fair

Value

Notional

Amount

Fair

Value

Notional

Amount

Fair

Value

Notional

Amount

Fair

Value

Interest rate swaps not

designated as hedges

$ 

– 

$ 

Foreign exchange contracts

 3,189 

Equity contracts

Embedded derivatives in

equity linked deposits

Other forecasted transactions

 – 

 – 

 – 

Total

$ 

3,189 

$ 

– 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

– 

$  19,400 

$ 

(420)

$ 

– 

$ 

– 

$ 

47,550 

$ 

 3,195 

 (16)

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 51,739 

 500 

 n/a 

 – 

 132 

 2 

 – 

 – 

 5,293 

 – 

 n/a 

 – 

(930)

 (59)

 – 

 (3)

 – 

$  22,595 

$ 

(436)

$ 

52,239 

$ 

134 

$ 

52,843 

$ 

(992)

The aggregate contractual or notional amount of the derivative 
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 derivative financial instruments on hand during the year are set out in the following table:

Favourable derivative financial instruments (assets)

Unfavourable derivative financial instruments (liabilities)

2011 

192 

722 

$ 

$ 

2010 

625 

1,168 

$ 

$ 

The following table summarizes maturities of derivative financial instruments and weighted average interest rates paid and received 
on contracts.

2011

Maturity

2010

Maturity

1 Year or Less

More than 1 Year

1 Year or Less

More than 1 Year

Contractual

Contractual

Contractual

Notional

Amount

Interest

Notional

Interest 

Rate

Amount

Rate

Notional

Amount

Interest

Rate

Notional

Amount

Contractual

Interest

Rate

Interest rate swaps not

designated as hedges (1)
Foreign exchange contracts (2)

Equity contracts

Total

$ 

– 

 6,384 

 – 

$  6,384 

 – 

$  19,400 

3.39% $ 

750 

4.19% $  46,800 

2.73%

 – 

 – 

$  19,400 

 57,032 

 500 

$  58,282 

 – 

 – 

$  46,800 

(1)  The Bank pays interest at a fixed contractual rate and receives interest on the one-month (30-day) Canadian Bankers’ Acceptance rate. Interest rate swaps not designated as hedges mature between 

November 2012 and April 2014.

(2)  The contractual interest rate is not meaningful for foreign exchange contracts. Foreign exchange contracts mature between November 2011 and April 2012.

During the year, no net unrealized after tax gains (2010 – $17) 
were recorded in other comprehensive income for changes in 
fair value of the effective portion of derivatives designated as 
cash flow hedges, and no amounts (2010 – nil) were recorded in 
other income for changes in fair value of the ineffective portion of 
derivatives classified as cash flow hedges. Amounts accumulated 

in other comprehensive income are reclassified to net income  
in the same period that interest on certain floating rate loans  
(i.e. the hedged items) affects income. During the year, no amounts 
(2010 – net gains after tax of $1,613) were reclassified  
to net income.

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

99

 
 
 
 
 
  
 
13.  OTHER ASSETS

Accrued interest receivable

Accounts receivable

Future income tax asset

Retained interests

Prepaid expenses
Financing costs (1)

Income taxes receivable

Other

Total

(1) Amortization for the year amounted to $1,403 (2010 – $1,374).

14.  DEPOSITS

Deposits are accounted for on an amortized cost basis. Costs relating  
to the issuance of fixed term deposits are amortized over the expected 
life of the deposit using the effective interest method.

$ 

 (Note 25) 

 (Note 8) 

2011 

40,665 

 27,917 

 18,121 

 5,899 

 4,898 

 4,685 

 3,902 

 2,086 

$ 

2010 

39,566 

 46,477 

 14,758 

 6,418 

 7,536 

 2,910 

 293 

 4,277 

$ 

108,173 

$ 

122,235 

Payable on demand

Payable after notice

Payable on a fixed date
Deposit from CWB Capital Trust (1)

Total

Payable on demand

Payable after notice

Payable on a fixed date
Deposit from CWB Capital Trust (1)
Total

Business and

Financial

Individuals

Government

Institutions

2011

Total

$ 

30,440 

$ 

552,827 

$ 

 2,086,231 

 6,229,158 

 – 

 1,321,359 

 2,166,674 

 105,000 

– 

 – 

 8,000 

 – 

$ 

583,267 

 3,407,590 

 8,403,832 

 105,000 

$  8,345,829 

$ 

4,145,860 

$ 

8,000 

$  12,499,689 

Individuals

Business and

Government

Financial

Institutions

$ 

23,308 

$ 

507,300 

$ 

 1,840,026 

 5,462,231 

 – 
7,325,565 

$ 

 1,159,573 

 1,713,329 

 105,000 
3,485,202 

$ 

$ 

– 

 – 

 2,000 

 – 
2,000 

2010

Total

$ 

530,608 

 2,999,599 

 7,177,560 

 105,000 
10,812,767 

$ 

(1) The senior deposit note of $105 million from CWB Capital Trust is reflected as a Business and Government deposit payable on a fixed date. This senior deposit note bears interest at an annual rate of  
  6.199% until December 31, 2016 and, thereafter, at the CDOR 180-day Bankers’ Acceptance rate plus 2.55%. This note is redeemable at the Bank’s option, in whole or in part, on and after December 31, 2011,  
  or earlier in certain specified circumstances, both subject to the approval of OSFI. Each one thousand dollars of CWB Capital Trust Capital Securities Series 1 (WesTS) principal is convertible at any time into 40  
  non-cumulative redeemable CWB First Preferred Shares Series 1 of the Bank at the option of CWB Capital Trust. CWB Capital Trust will exercise this conversion right in circumstances in which holders of WesTS  

exercise their holder exchange rights. See Note 15 for more information on WesTS and CWB Capital Trust.

15.  CAPITAL TRUST SECURITIES

In 2006, the Bank arranged for the issuance of innovative capital 
instruments, CWB Capital Trust Capital Securities Series 1 (WesTS), 
through Canadian Western Bank Capital Trust (CWB Capital Trust), a 
special purpose entity. CWB Capital Trust, an open-end trust, issued 
non-voting WesTS and the proceeds were used to purchase a senior 
deposit note from CWB.

CICA Accounting Guideline (AcG-15) provides a framework for 
identifying Variable Interest Entities (VIEs) and requires the 
consolidation of a VIE if the Bank is the primary beneficiary of the 
VIE. The only special purpose entity in which the Bank participates 
is CWB Capital Trust. Although CWB owns the unit holder’s equity 
and voting control of CWB Capital Trust through Special Trust 

Securities, the Bank is not exposed to the majority of CWB Capital 
Trust losses and is, therefore, not the primary beneficiary under 
AcG-15. Accordingly, CWB does not consolidate CWB Capital Trust 
and the WesTS issued by CWB Capital Trust are not reported on the 
consolidated balance sheets, but the senior deposit note is reported 
in deposits (see Note 14) and interest expense is recognized on the 
senior deposit note.

Holders of WesTS are eligible to receive semi-annual non-cumulative 
fixed cash distributions. No cash distributions will be payable by 
CWB Capital Trust on WesTS if CWB fails to declare regular dividends 
on its preferred shares or, if no preferred shares are outstanding, 
on its common shares. In this case, the net distributable funds of 

100 SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CWB Capital Trust will be distributed to the Bank as holder of the 
residual interest in CWB Capital Trust.

Should CWB Capital Trust fail to pay the semi-annual distributions 
in full, CWB has contractually agreed not to declare dividends of 
any kind on any of the preferred or common shares for a specified 
period of time.

The following information presents the outstanding WesTS:

Issuance date ......................................................... August 31, 2006

Distribution dates ................................................. June 30, December 31

Annual yield............................................................ 6.199%

Earliest date redeemable  
at the option of the issuer................................... December 31, 2011

Earliest date exchangeable  
at the option of the holder ................................. Anytime

Trust capital securities outstanding ................ 105,000

Principal amount ................................................... $105,000

The significant terms and conditions of the WesTS are:

1)  Subject to the approval of OSFI, CWB Capital Trust may, in whole 
(but not in part), on the redemption date specified above, and 
on any distribution date thereafter, redeem the WesTS without 
the consent of the holders.

2)  Subject to the approval of OSFI, upon occurrence of a special 

event as defined, prior to the redemption date specified above, 
CWB Capital Trust may redeem all, but not part, of the WesTS 
without the consent of the holders.

3)  The WesTS may be redeemed for cash equivalent to (i) the early 

redemption price if the redemption occurs prior to December 31, 
2016 or (ii) the redemption price if the redemption occurs on or 
after December 31, 2016. Redemption price refers to an amount 
equal to one thousand dollars plus the unpaid distributions to 
the redemption date. Early redemption price refers to an amount 
equal to the greater of (i) the redemption price and (ii) the price 
calculated to provide an annual yield, equal to the yield on a 
Government of Canada bond issued on the redemption date 
with a maturity date of December 31, 2016, plus 0.50%.

4)  Holders of WesTS may, at any time, exchange each one 

thousand dollars of principal for 40 First Preferred Shares 
Series 1 of the Bank. CWB’s First Preferred Shares Series 1 pay 
semi-annual non-cumulative cash dividends with an annual 
yield of 4.00% and will be redeemable at the option of the 
Bank, with OSFI approval, on or after December 31, 2011, but 
not at the option of the holders. This exchange right will be 
effected through the conversion by CWB Capital Trust of the 
corresponding amount of the deposit note of the Bank.  
The WesTS exchanged for the Bank’s First Preferred Shares 
Series 1 will be cancelled by CWB Capital Trust.

5)  Each WesTS will be exchanged automatically without the 

consent of the holders for 40 non-cumulative redeemable CWB 
First Preferred Shares Series 2 upon occurrence of any one of 
the following events: (i) proceedings are commenced for the 
winding up of the Bank, (ii) OSFI takes control of the Bank, (iii) 
the Bank has a Tier 1 capital ratio of less than 5% or Total capital 
ratio of less than 8%, or (iv) OSFI has directed the Bank to 
increase its capital or provide additional liquidity and the Bank 
elects such automatic exchange or the Bank fails to comply 
with such direction. Following the occurrence of an automatic 
exchange, the Bank would hold all of the Special Trust Securities 
and all of the WesTS, and the primary asset of CWB Capital Trust 
would continue to be the senior deposit note. The Bank’s First 
Preferred Shares Series 2 pay semi-annual non-cumulative 
cash dividends with an annual yield of 5.25% and will be 
redeemable at the option of the Bank, with OSFI approval,  
on or after December 31, 2011, but not at the option of 
the holders.

6)   For regulatory capital purposes, WesTS are included in Tier 
1 capital to a maximum of 15% of net Tier 1 capital with the 
remainder included in Tier 2 capital. All of the outstanding 
WesTS amounts are currently included in Tier 1 capital.

7)  The non-cumulative cash distribution on the WesTS will be 
6.199% paid semi-annually until December 31, 2016 and, 
thereafter, at CDOR 180-day Bankers’ Acceptance rate 
plus 2.55%. 

16.  INSURANCE RELATED OTHER LIABILITIES

Unpaid claims and adjustment expenses

Unearned premiums

Due to insurance companies and policyholders
Unearned commissions

Total

 (Note 22) 

$ 

76,892 

$ 

2011 

 69,584 

 2,087 
 567 

2010 

80,086 

 66,444 

 2,305 
 561 

$ 

149,130 

$ 

149,396 

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

101

 
 
 
17.  OTHER LIABILITIES

Accrued interest payable

Accounts payable

Acquisition contingent consideration

Future income tax liability

Leasehold inducements

Deferred revenue

Income taxes payable

Total

18.  SUBORDINATED DEBENTURES

 (Note 25) 

2011 

$ 

101,557 

$ 

 88,420 

 30,870 

 9,767 

 3,297 

 2,708 

 1,609 

2010 

97,929 

 82,712 

 31,155 

 17,549 

 2,446 

 3,437 

 637 

$ 

238,228 

$ 

235,865 

Financing costs relating to the issuance of subordinated debentures 
are amortized over the expected life of the related subordinated 
debenture using the effective interest method.

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 OSFI.

Interest

Rate
4.389% (1)
5.070% (2)
5.571% (3)
5.950% (4)
5.426% (5)

Total

 Maturity 

 Date 

 Earliest Date 

 Redeemable 

 by CWB at Par 

2011 

 November 30, 2020 

 November 30, 2015 

$ 

300,000 

$ 

 March 21, 2017 

 March 21, 2022 

 June 27, 2018 

 March 22, 2012 

 March 22, 2017 

 June 28, 2013 

 November 21, 2015 

 November 22, 2010 

 120,000 

 75,000 

 50,000 

 – 

2010 

– 

 120,000 

 75,000 

 50,000 

 70,000 

$ 

545,000 

$ 

315,000 

(1)  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 193 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 155 basis points. Of the $125,000 debentures issued, $5,000 are held by Canadian Direct Insurance Incorporated, a wholly owned subsidiary, and have been eliminated on 
consolidation.

(3)  These conventional debentures have a 15-year term with a fixed interest rate for the first 10 years. Thereafter, the interest rate will be reset quarterly at the Canadian dollar CDOR 90-day Bankers’ 

Acceptance rate plus 180 basis points.

(4)  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 302 basis points. 

(5)  These conventional debentures had a 10-year term with a fixed interest rate for the first five years. Thereafter, the interest rate would have reset quarterly at the Canadian dollar CDOR 90-day Bankers’ 

Acceptance rate plus 180 basis points. On November 22, 2010, these conventional debentures were redeemed by the Bank.

102 SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

 
 
 
19.  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; and

Issued and fully paid:

Preferred Shares – Series 3
Outstanding at beginning and end of year

Common Shares
Outstanding at beginning of year

Issued on exercise of warrants

Issued on exercise or exchange of options

Issued under dividend reinvestment plan

Transferred from contributed surplus on

exercise or exchange of options

Issued on acquisition of subsidiary

Outstanding at end of year

Share Capital

(Note 34)

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. In addition, should CWB Capital Trust fail to 
pay the semi-annual distributions in full on the CWB Capital Trust 
Securities Series 1 (see Note 15), the Bank has contractually agreed 
to not declare dividends on any of its common and preferred 
shares for a specified period of time. These limitations do not 
restrict the current level of dividends.

a)  Preferred Shares

During 2009, the Bank issued 8.4 million preferred units at $25.00 
per unit, for total proceeds of $209.8 million. The preferred units 
issued by way of the private placement and the public offering 
each consist of one Non-Cumulative 5-Year Rate Reset Preferred 
Share, Series 3 (Series 3 Preferred Shares) in the capital of the Bank 
with an issue price of $25.00 per share and 1.7857 and 1.7800 
common share purchase warrants, respectively. Each warrant was 
exercisable at a price of $14.00 to purchase one common share in 
the capital of the Bank until March 3, 2014. As at October 31, 2011, 
no warrants remain outstanding (2010 – 13,471,611).

Holders of the Series 3 Preferred Shares are entitled to receive 
non-cumulative quarterly fixed dividends for the initial 
 five-year period ending April 30, 2014 of 7.25% per annum, 
payable quarterly, as and when declared by the Board of 
Directors. The dividend rate on Series 3 Preferred Shares will 
reset May 1, 2014 and every five years thereafter at a level of 
500 basis points over the then current five-year Government 
of Canada bond yield. On April 30, 2014, and every five years 

•  25,000,000 first preferred shares without nominal or par value, 
issuable in series, of which, 4,200,000 first preferred shares 
Series 1 and 4,200,000 first preferred shares Series 2 have been 
reserved (see Note 15). In addition, 8,390,000 first preferred 
shares Series 3 have been issued and are convertible to first 
preferred shares Series 4 as noted below.

 2011

Number of

Shares

Amount

2010

Number of

Shares

Amount

 8,390,000 

$ 

209,750 

8,390,000 

$ 

209,750 

 66,641,362 

 8,265,424 

 341,541 

 213,654 

 – 

 – 

 279,352 

 115,716 

 2,996 

 5,941 

 4,009 

 – 

 75,461,981 

 408,014 

 63,903,460 

 226,480 

 23,068 

 524,151 

 125,595 

 – 

 2,065,088 

 66,641,362 

 323 

 3,864 

 2,922 

 3,181 

 42,582 

 279,352 

$ 

617,764 

$ 

489,102 

thereafter, holders of Series 3 Preferred Shares will, subject to 
certain conditions, have the option to convert their shares to 
Non-Cumulative Floating Rate Preferred Shares, Series 4 (Series 4 
Preferred Shares). Holders of the Series 4 Preferred Shares will be 
entitled to a floating quarterly dividend rate equal to the 90-day 
Canadian treasury bill rate plus 500 basis points, as and when 
declared by the Board of Directors.

The Series 3 Preferred Shares are not redeemable prior to April 
30, 2014. Subject to the provisions of the Bank Act, the prior 
consent of OSFI and the provisions described in the prospectus 
for the public offering, on April 30, 2014 and on April 30 every five 
years thereafter, the Bank may redeem all or any part of the then 
outstanding Series 3 Preferred Shares at the Bank’s option without 
the consent of the holder, by the payment of an amount in cash for 
each such share so redeemed of $25.00 together with all declared 
and unpaid dividends to the date fixed for redemption.

Subject to the provisions of the Bank Act, the prior consent of 
OSFI and the provisions described in the prospectus for the public 
offering, on not more than 60 nor less than 30 days’ notice, the 
Bank may redeem all or any part of the then outstanding Series 
4 Preferred Shares at the Bank’s option without the consent of 
the holder by the payment of an amount in cash for each such 
share so redeemed of: (i) $25.00 together with all declared and 
unpaid dividends to the date fixed for redemption in the case 
of redemptions on April 30, 2019 and on April 30 every five 
years thereafter; or (ii) $25.50 together with all declared and 
unpaid dividends to the date fixed for redemption in the case of 
redemptions on any other date on or after April 30, 2014.

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

103

 
 
 
 
b)  Warrants to Purchase Common Shares

Each warrant was exercisable at a price of $14.00 to purchase one  
common share in the capital of the Bank until March 3, 2014.

Number of Warrants
Outstanding at beginning of year

Exercised

Purchased and cancelled

Purchased and cancelled under Normal Course Issuer Bids

Outstanding at end of year

During 2011, holders of the Bank’s common share purchase 
warrants approved a resolution to amend the terms of the 
warrant indenture, which allowed the Bank to redeem all of the 
outstanding warrants. The Bank immediately redeemed for cash 
4,206,187 warrants for an aggregate cost of $72,461, which was 
charged to retained earnings.

The Bank received approval from the Toronto Stock Exchange on 
January 18, 2011 to institute a Normal Course Issuer Bid (NCIB) 
to purchase and cancel up to 1,029,108 of its warrants. The NCIB 
commenced January 20, 2011 and was extinguished on August 
19, 2011 in conjunction with the warrant redemption discussed 
above. During 2011, the Bank purchased and cancelled 1,000,000 
warrants at an aggregate cost of $15,985, which was charged to 
retained earnings. 

The Bank received approval from the Toronto Stock Exchange on 
January 18, 2010 and subsequently amended on September 30, 
2010 to institute a NCIB to purchase and cancel up to 1,469,677 
of its warrants. The NCIB commenced January 20, 2010 and was 
completed in October 2010. During 2010, the Bank purchased 
and cancelled 1,469,677 warrants fulfilling all available purchases 
under this NCIB at an aggregate cost of $16,453, which was 
charged to retained earnings.

20.  STOCK BASED COMPENSATION

a)  Stock Options

Stock options are accounted for using the fair value based 
method. The estimated value is recognized over the applicable 
vesting period as an increase to both salary expense and 
contributed surplus. When options are exercised, the proceeds 
received and the applicable amount, if any, in contributed surplus 
are credited to capital stock.

104 SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

2011 

 13,471,611 

 (8,265,424)

 (4,206,187)

 (1,000,000)

 – 

2010 

 14,964,356 

 (23,068)

 – 

 (1,469,677)

 13,471,611 

c)  Dividend Reinvestment Plan 

Under the dividend reinvestment plan (plan), the Bank provides 
holders of the Bank’s common shares and holders of any other 
class of shares deemed eligible by the Bank’s Board of Directors 
with the opportunity to direct cash dividends paid on any class  
of their eligible shares towards the purchase of additional 
common shares. Currently, the Board of Directors has deemed 
that the holders of the Bank’s Series 3 Preferred Shares are also 
eligible to participate in the plan. The plan is only open  
to shareholders residing in Canada.

At the option of the Bank, the common shares may be issued 
from the Bank’s treasury at an average market price based on the 
closing prices of a board lot of common shares on the Toronto 
Stock Exchange for the five trading days immediately preceding 
the dividend payment date, with a discount of between 0% to 5% 
at the Bank’s discretion. The Bank also has the option to fund the 
plan through the open market at market prices. During the year, 
213,654 (2010 – 125,595) common shares were issued under the 
plan from the Bank’s treasury at a 2% (2010 – 2%) discount.

d)  Common Share Normal Course Issuer Bid

On October 31, 2011, the Bank received approval from the Toronto 
Stock Exchange to institute a NCIB to purchase and cancel up to 
2,261,434 of its common shares. The NCIB commenced November 
2, 2011 and will expire November 1, 2012. No common shares 
have been purchased under this NCIB as at October 31, 2011.

The Bank has authorized 4,982,778 common shares (2010 – 
5,324,319) for issuance under the share incentive plan. Of the 
amount authorized, options exercisable into 3,542,072 shares 
(2010 – 3,834,433) 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 date. All options expire within 
five to seven years of date of grant. Outstanding options expire 
from December 2011 to June 2016.

The details of, and changes in, the issued and outstanding options follow:

Options
Balance at beginning of year

Granted

Exercised or exchanged

Forfeited

Balance at end of year

Exercisable at end of year

2011

2010

Weighted

Average

Exercise

Price

19.93 

 30.10 

 22.13 

 23.68 

21.36 

26.45 

Number

of Options

 3,834,433 

$ 

 729,314 

 (943,399)

 (78,276)

 3,542,072 

 687,570 

$ 

$ 

Weighted

Average

Exercise

Price

18.66 

 22.67 

 16.24 

 21.04 

19.93 

22.84 

Number

of Options

 4,394,605 

$ 

 632,386 

 (1,085,435)

 (107,123)

 3,834,433 

 1,109,850 

$ 

$ 

Further details relating to stock options outstanding and exercisable follow:

Options Outstanding

Options Exercisable

Weighted

Average

Remaining

Number of 

Contractual

Options

 909,100 

 737,840 

 983,683 

 911,449 

 3,542,072 

Life (years)

 2.1 

 2.1 

 2.5 

 3.3 

 2.5 

$ 

$ 

Weighted

Average

Exercise

Price

11.72 

 18.83 

 23.87 

 30.32 

21.36 

Weighted

Average

Exercise

Price

– 

 21.46 

 25.88 

 31.13 

26.45 

Number

of Options

 – 

$ 

 132,790 

 367,500 

 187,280 

 687,570 

$ 

Range of Exercise Prices
$8.58 to $11.76

$16.89 to $21.46

$22.09 to $26.38

$28.11 to $31.18

Total

The terms of the share incentive plan 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, determined at 
the exercise date, over the exercise price. Of the 943,399 (2010 
– 1,085,435) options exercised or exchanged, option holders 
exchanged the rights to 810,899 (2010 – 842,025) options and 
received 209,041 (2010 – 280,741) shares in return under the 
cashless settlement alternative. Salary expense of $4,602 (2010 
– $5,106) was recognized relating to the estimated fair value of 
options granted. 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 2.1% 
(2010 – 2.6%), (ii) expected option life of 4.0 (2010 – 4.0) years, 
(iii) expected volatility of 36% (2010 – 44%), and (iv) expected 
dividends of 1.8% (2010 – 2.1%). The weighted average fair 
value of options granted was estimated at $7.69 (2010 – $7.36) 
per share.

During the year, $4,009 (2010 – $3,181) was transferred from 
contributed surplus to share capital, representing the estimated 
fair value recognized for 943,399 (2010 – 1,085,435) options 
exercised during the year. 

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

105

b)  Restricted Share Units 

Under the Restricted Share Unit (RSU) plan, certain employees are 
eligible to receive an award in the form of RSUs. Each RSU entitles 
the holder to receive the cash equivalent of the market value of 
the Bank’s common shares at the vesting date and an amount 
equivalent to the dividends paid on the common shares during 
the vesting period. RSUs vest on each anniversary of the grant in 
equal one-third instalments over a vesting period of three years. 
Salary expense is recognized evenly over the vesting period 

except where the employee is eligible to retire prior to the vesting 
date, in which case the expense is recognized between the grant 
date and the date the employee is eligible to retire.

During the year, salary expense of $8,351 (2010 – $4,628) was 
recognized related to RSUs. As at October 31, 2011, the liability for 
the RSUs held under this plan was $8,922 (2010 – $6,335). At the 
end of each period, the liability and salary expense are adjusted to 
reflect changes in the market value of the Bank’s common shares.

Number of RSUs
Balance at beginning of year

Granted

Vested and paid out

Forfeited

Balance at end of year

c)  Deferred Share Units

2011 

 469,941 

 259,820 

 (183,573)

 (10,419)

 535,769 

2010 

 285,197 

 287,591 

 (92,997)

 (9,850)

 469,941 

Under the Deferred Share Unit (DSU) plan, non-employee directors 
receive at least 50% of their annual retainer in DSUs. The DSUs are 
not redeemable until the individual is no longer a director and 
must be redeemed for cash. Common share dividend equivalents 
accrue to the directors in the form of additional units. The expense 
related to the DSUs is recorded in the period the award is earned 
by the director. 

During the year, non-interest expenses “other expenses” included 
$1,048 (2010 – $358) related to the DSUs. As at October 31, 2011, 
the liability for DSUs held under this plan was $1,467 (2010 – $610). 
At the end of each period, the liability and expense are adjusted  
to reflect changes in the market value of the Bank’s common 
shares. As at October 31, 2011, 51,463 DSUs were outstanding 
(2010 – 24,046).

21.  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

2011 

2010 

$ 

276,323 

 4,101,250 

$ 

4,377,573 

$ 

$ 

261,438 

 3,375,690 

3,637,128 

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 $1,590,678 
(2010 – $1,468,325) and recently authorized but unfunded loan 
commitments of $2,510,572 (2010 – $1,907,365). 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 

106 SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

 
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. Revolving credit authorizations are subject 
to repayment which, on a pooled basis, also decreases 
liquidity risk.

b)  Lease Commitments

The Bank has obligations under long-term, non-cancellable operating leases for the rental of premises. Minimum future  
lease commitments for each of the five succeeding years and thereafter are as follows:

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017 and thereafter

Total

c)  Guarantees

$ 

$ 

10,932 

 11,049 

 10,711 

 10,721 

 7,859 

 23,745 

75,017 

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.

22.  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 

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 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 $12,996 (2010 – $13,153), and the balance 
outstanding was $2,933 (2010 – $2,927).

No amounts are reflected in the consolidated financial 
statements related to these guarantees and indemnifications.

d)  Legal and Regulatory Proceedings

In the ordinary course of business, the Bank and its 
subsidiaries are party to legal and regulatory 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.

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. If the unearned premiums are not 
sufficient to pay expected claims and expenses (including 
policy maintenance expenses and unamortized policy 
acquisition costs), a premium deficiency is said to exist. 

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

107

Anticipated investment income is considered in determining 
whether a premium deficiency exists. Premium deficiencies 
are recognized by writing down the deferred policy acquisition 
cost asset.

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.

The provisions are periodically reviewed and evaluated in 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.

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 expense are recorded in insurance related other 
assets and are estimated in a manner consistent with the  
liabilities associated with the reinsured policies.

a)  Insurance Revenues, Net

Insurance revenues, net, reported in other income on the 
consolidated statements of income are presented net of claims, 
adjustment expenses and policy acquisition costs.

Net earned premiums

Commissions and processing fees

Net claims and adjustment expenses

Policy acquisition costs

Insurance revenues, net

2011 

$ 

117,632 

$ 

 1,869 

 (74,734)

 (24,517)

$ 

20,250 

$ 

2010 

111,368 

 2,347 

 (68,641)

 (23,358)

21,716 

b)  Unpaid Claims and Adjustment Expenses

Nature of Unpaid Claims
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, 
quality of the data used for projection purposes, existing claims 
management practices, including claims handling and settlement 
practices, 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.

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 re-estimation of the liability for unpaid claims relating 
to each preceding financial year compared to the liability that was 
originally established. 

108 SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

 
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 year

Claims incurred

In the current year

In prior periods

Claims paid during the year

Unpaid claims and adjustment expenses, net, end of year

Reinsurers’ share of unpaid claims and adjustment expenses

Recoverable on unpaid claims

2011 

$ 

62,811 

$ 

 75,694 

 (960)

 (73,002)

 64,543 

 6,153 

 6,196 

Unpaid claims and adjustment expenses, net, end of year

$ 

76,892 

$ 

2010 

63,281 

 70,098 

 (1,457)

 (69,111)

 62,811 

 10,949 

 6,326 

80,086 

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 and all lines of business 
was 2.76% (2010 – 2.96%). However, that rate was reduced 

by a 0.75% (2010 – 1.00%) 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 
$790 (2010 – $901) in unpaid claims and adjustment expenses 
and related reinsurance recoveries.

Policy balances, included in insurance related other assets and other liabilities, analyzed by major lines of business are as follows:

Unpaid claims and adjustment expenses

Reinsurers’ share of unpaid claims and adjustment expenses

Unearned premiums

c)  Underwriting Policy and Reinsurance Ceded

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 $300,000 (2010 – $200,000) 
is obtained to protect against certain catastrophic losses. 
Retention on catastrophic events and property and liability 
risks is generally $2,000 (2010 – $1,000). For the British 
Columbia automobile insurance product, retentions are 
further reduced by the underlying mandatory coverage 
provided by the provincially governed Crown corporation. 
Reinsurance coverage is diversified across many reinsurers 
in order to spread risk and reduce reinsurer concentration 

Premiums earned reduced by
Claims incurred reduced by 

2011

Automobile

$ 

$ 

63,371 

 6,132 

 47,922 

Home

13,521 

 21 

 21,662 

2010

Automobile

$ 

$ 

65,486 

 9,967 

 46,622 

Home

14,600 

 982 

 19,822 

risk in the event of a very large loss, such as an earthquake. 
The reinsurers selected to participate in the program have a 
minimum rating of A- from Standard & Poor’s or A.M. Best. In 
addition, reinsurance treaties have a special termination clause 
allowing the Bank to change a reinsurer during the term of the 
agreement if their rating falls below the specified level. 

At October 31, 2011, $6,153 (2010 – $10,949) of unpaid claims 
and adjustment expenses were recorded as recoverable from 
reinsurers. Failure of a reinsurer to honour its obligation could 
result in losses. The financial condition of reinsurers is 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.

$ 

2011
8,898 
 102 

$ 

2010
8,947 
 5,723 

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

109

  
 
 
23.  DISCLOSURES ON RATE REGULATION

Canadian Direct Insurance Incorporated (Canadian Direct), a 
wholly owned subsidiary, is licensed under insurance legislation 
in the provinces in which it conducts business. Automobile 
insurance is a compulsory product and is subject to different 
regulations across the provinces in Canada, including those with 
respect to rate setting. Rate setting mechanisms vary across the 
provinces, but they generally fall under three categories: “use and 
file”, “file and use” and “file and approve”. Under “use and file”, 
rates are filed following use. Under “file and use”, insurers file 

their rates with the relevant authorities and wait for a prescribed 
period of time and then implement the proposed rates. Under “file 
and approve”, insurers must wait for specific approval of 
filed rates before they may be used.

The authorities that regulate automobile insurance rates, in the 
provinces in which Canadian Direct is writing that business, are 
listed below. Automobile direct written premiums in Alberta 
totaled $40,800 in 2011 (2010 – $39,500) and represented 49% 
(2010 – 49%) of direct automobile premiums written.

Province

Alberta

Rate Filing

File and approve or 
File and use

Regulatory Authority

Alberta Automobile Insurance Rate Board

While regulatory authorities generally approve rates and rate 
adjustments prospectively, in some circumstances retroactive rate 
adjustments in respect of historical results may be required, which 

could result in a regulatory asset or liability for the Bank. As at 
October 31, 2011, the Bank had no such regulatory asset or liability.

24.  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 totaled $10,217 (2010 – $8,864).

25.  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 
and liabilities are expected to be realized in the normal course 
of operations.

The provision for income taxes consists of the following:

Consolidated statements of income

Current

Future

Shareholders’ equity

Future income tax expense related to:

Unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities

Gains (losses) on derivatives designated as cash flow hedges

Total

2011 

2010 

$ 

$ 

60,397 

 (3,449)

 56,948 

 (7,697)

 – 

 (7,697)

49,251 

$ 

$ 

63,493 

 (16,149)

 47,344 

 2,159 

 (636)

 1,523 

48,867 

110

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

 
 
 
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 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

Stock-based compensation

Resolution of outstanding issues

Other

2011

2010

$ 

63,816 

 27.1% $ 

60,327 

 28.6%

 (8,849)

 1,236 

 – 

 745 

 (3.7)

 0.5 

 – 

 0.3 

Provision for income taxes and effective tax rate

$ 

56,948 

 24.2% $ 

Future income tax balances are comprised of the following:

Net future income tax assets
Allowance for credit losses
Deferred loan fees
Deferred deposit broker commission
Leasing income
Other temporary differences

Net future income tax liabilities

Intangible assets
Leasing income
Other temporary differences

The Bank has approximately $11,140 (2010 – $11,140) of capital 
losses that 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.

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

 (9,480)

 1,451 

 (7,488)

 2,534 

47,344 

2011

13,659 
 4,556 
 (3,843)
 967 
 2,782 
18,121 

9,736 
 – 
 31 
9,767 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

 (4.5)

 0.7 

 (3.6)

 1.2 

22.4%

2010

14,240 
 4,365 
 (3,688)
 (2,800)
 2,641 
14,758 

11,459 
 5,733 
 357 
17,549 

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

111

 
 
26.  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 

The calculation of earnings per common share follows:

Numerator

Net income available to common shareholders

Denominator

of warrants on common shares or in-the-money stock options 
would be used to purchase the Bank’s common shares at the 
average market price during the year.

2011

2010

$ 

162,941 

$ 

148,413 

Weighted average of common shares outstanding – basic

 72,205,180 

 65,756,653 

Dilutive instruments:

Warrants
Stock options (1)

Weighted average number of common shares outstanding – diluted

Earnings per Common Share

Basic

Diluted

 3,328,444 

 1,171,801 

 76,705,425 

 5,796,819 

 775,360 

 72,328,832 

$ 

$ 

2.26 

 2.12 

2.26 

 2.05

(1)  At October 31, 2011, the denominator excludes 911,449 (2010 – 832,830) employee stock options with an average adjusted exercise price of $30.32 (2010 – $27.23) where the exercise price, adjusted for 

unrecognized stock-based compensation, is greater than the average market price.

27.  ASSETS UNDER ADMINISTRATION AND MANAGEMENT

Assets under administration of $9,369,589 (2010 – $8,530,716) 
and assets under management of $816,219 (2010 – $795,467) 
represent the fair value of assets held for personal, corporate and 
institutional clients as well as third party leases and residential 

mortgages subject to service agreements. The assets are kept 
separate from the Bank’s own assets. Assets under administration 
and management are not reflected in the consolidated balance 
sheets and relate to the banking and trust segment.

28.  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 $111,474 
(2010 – $107,160). The Bank offers deposits, primarily fixed term 

deposits to its officers, employees and their immediate family at 
preferred rates. The total amount outstanding for these types of 
deposits is $187,733 (2010 – $162,805).

112

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29.  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 following 
showing the gap position at October 31 for select time intervals. 
Figures in brackets represent an excess of liabilities over assets or 
a negative gap position.

ASSET LIABILITY GAP 
POSITIONS 
($ millions)

Floating Rate

and Within

1 to 3

3 Months

October 31, 2011

1 Month

Months

to 1 Year

Total

Within

1 Year

Non-

1 Year to More than

Interest

5 Years

5 Years

Sensitive

Total

Assets
Cash resources and securities

Loans
Other assets (2)
Derivative financial instruments (1)

Total

Liabilities and Equity
Deposits
Other liabilities (2)
Debentures (3)

Shareholders’ equity
Derivative financial instruments (1)

Total

Interest Rate Sensitive Gap

Cumulative Gap
Cumulative Gap as a 

$ 

$ 

$ 

267 

$ 

 5,639 

 – 

 20 

540 

 575 

 – 

 – 

$ 

389 

$  1,196 

$ 

804 

$ 

 1,417 

 7,631 

 4,548 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 20 

 – 

 – 

 5,926 

 1,115 

 1,806 

 8,847 

 5,352 

134 

 84 

 – 

 – 

 218 

 4,508 

 1,273 

 2,972 

 8,753 

 3,665 

 105 

 3 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 4,511 

1,415 

1,415 

 6 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 26 

 120 

 – 

 – 

 35 

 120 

 – 

 – 

 1,279 

 3,118 

 8,908 

$ 

$ 

(164)

$  (1,312)

1,251 

$ 

(61)

$ 

$ 

(61)

(61)

$ 

$ 

 34 

 350 

 – 

 20 

 4,069 

1,283 

1,222 

 8 

 75 

 – 

 – 

 188 

30 

1,252 

$ 

$ 

Percentage of Total Assets

 9.6%

 8.5% 

 (0.4)%

 (0.4)%

 8.3%

 8.5%

October 31, 2010

Total assets

Total liabilities and equity

Interest Rate Sensitive Gap

Cumulative Gap
Cumulative Gap as a 

$ 

5,498 

 4,496 

1,002 

1,002 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

719 

 912 

(193)

809 

$ 

1,420 

$ 

7,637 

$ 

4,593 

 2,039 

 7,447 

$ 

$ 

(619)

190 

$ 

$ 

190 

190 

$ 

$ 

 3,698 

895 

1,085 

$ 

$ 

$ 

232 

 187 

45 

1,130 

Percentage of Total Assets

 7.8%

 6.3% 

 1.5%

 1.5%

 8.5%

 8.8%

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

104 

 (42)

 313 

 6 

 381 

$  2,238 

 12,221 

 313 

 26 

 14,798 

 (23)

 356 

 – 

 1,294 

 6 

 1,633 

(1,252)

– 

 – 

 12,500 

 433 

 545 

 1,294 

 26 

 14,798 

– 

– 

 – 

$ 

$ 

345 

$  12,807

 1,475 

(1,130)

– 

 – 

$ 

$ 

 12,807 

– 

– 

 – 

(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.

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

113

The effective, weighted average interest rates for each class of financial asset and liability are shown below:

WEIGHTED AVERAGE EFFECTIVE INTEREST RATES 
(%)

October 31, 2011
Total assets

Total liabilities

Interest Rate Sensitive Gap

October 31, 2010

Total assets

Total liabilities 

Interest Rate Sensitive Gap

Floating Rate
and Within

1 to 3

3 Months

1 Month

Months

to 1 Year

 4.0% 

 1.2 

 2.8% 

 3.9% 

 1.2 

 2.7%

 2.4% 

 1.9 

 0.5% 

 2.8% 

 2.0 

 0.8%

 4.6% 

 2.5 

 2.1% 

 4.9% 

 2.6 

 2.3%

Total
Within

1 Year

 3.9% 

 1.7 

 2.2% 

 4.0% 

 1.7 

 2.3%

1 Year to

More than

5 Years

5 Years

Total

 5.2% 

 2.8 

 2.4% 

 5.5% 

 3.2 

 2.3%

 5.1% 

 5.8 

 (0.7)% 

 5.2% 

 5.8 

(0.6)%

 4.4% 

 2.1 

 2.3%

 4.6%

 2.3 

 2.3%

Based on the current interest rate gap position, it is estimated 
that a one-percentage point increase in all interest rates 
would increase net interest income by approximately 3.0% or 
$11,024 (October 31, 2010 – 2.3% or $7,372) and decrease other 
comprehensive income $9,017 (October 31, 2010 – $9,796) net 

of tax, respectively, over the following twelve months. A one-
percentage point decrease in all interest rates would decrease net 
interest income by approximately 3.7% or $13,436 (October 31, 
2010 – 1.5% or $4,703) and increase other comprehensive income 
$9,017 (October 31, 2010 – $9,796) net of tax.

30.  FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

The fair value of a financial instrument on initial recognition is 
normally the transaction price (i.e. the value of the consideration 
given or received). Subsequent to initial recognition, financial 
instruments measured at fair value that are quoted in active 
markets are based on bid prices for financial assets and offer 
prices for financial liabilities. For certain securities and derivative 
financial instruments where an active market does not exist, fair 
values are determined using valuation techniques that refer to 
observable market data, including discounted cash flow analysis, 
option pricing models and other valuation techniques commonly 
used by market participants. 

The fair value of financial assets recorded on the consolidated 
balance sheets at fair value (cash, securities, securities purchased 
under resale agreements, retained interest in securitized assets 
and derivatives) was determined using published market prices 
quoted in active markets (referred to as Level 1) and estimated 
using a valuation technique based on observable market data 
(referred to as Level 2). The fair value of liabilities recorded on 
the consolidated balance sheets at fair value (derivatives) was 
determined using a valuation technique based on observable 
market data. There were no financial instruments measured  
using unobservable market data (referred to as Level 3).

Financial Assets

Cash resources
Securities
Retained interest in securitized assets

October 31, 2011
October 31, 2010

Financial Liabilities

Derivative related

October 31, 2011
October 31, 2010

Fair Value

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Valuation Technique

$ 

312,335 
 1,925,704 
 7,767 
$  2,245,806 
1,885,922 
$ 

$ 

272,704 
 1,925,704 
 – 
$  2,198,408 
1,691,330 
$ 

$ 
$ 
$ 

436 
436 
992 

$ 
$ 
$ 

– 
– 
– 

$ 

$ 
$ 

$ 
$ 
$ 

39,631 
 – 
 7,767 
47,398 
194,592 

436 
436 
992 

$ 

$ 
$ 

$ 
$ 
$ 

– 
 – 
 – 
– 
– 

– 
– 
–

114

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

 
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. 

Several of the Bank’s significant financial instruments, such as 
loans and deposits, 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 loans, deposits and subordinated debentures are 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 table below sets out the fair values of financial instruments 
(including derivatives) 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.

2011

2010

Book Value

Fair Value

Fair Value
Over (Under)
Book Value

Book Value

Fair Value

(Note 3) $ 
(Note 4)

312,335  $ 

312,335  $ 

 1,925,704 

 1,925,704 

$ 

– 
 – 

187,944 
 1,510,187 

$ 

187,944 
 1,510,187 

$ 

 – 
 12,262,982 
 120,038 
 – 

 12,514,774 
 314,717 
 545,000 
 436 

 – 
 12,325,365 
 120,038 
 – 

 12,579,770 
 314,717 
 566,917 
 436 

 – 
 62,383 
 – 
 – 

 64,996 
 – 
 21,917 
 – 

 177,954 
 10,550,380 
 142,524 
 134 

 10,826,670 
 302,479 
 315,000 
 992 

 177,954 
 10,583,395 
 142,524 
 134 

 10,883,873 
 302,479 
 320,056 
 992 

Fair Value
Over (Under)
Book Value

– 
 – 

 – 
 33,015 
 – 
 – 

 57,203 
 – 
 5,056 
 – 

Assets

Cash resources
Securities
Securities purchased under 
resale agreements

Loans (1)
Other assets (2)
Derivative related

Liabilities

Deposits (1)
Other liabilities (3)
Subordinated debentures
Derivative related

(1)  Loans and deposits exclude deferred premiums and deferred revenue, which are not financial instruments.
(2)  Other assets exclude property 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 that are not financial instruments.

(3)  Other liabilities exclude future income tax liability, deferred revenue, unearned insurance premiums and other items that are not financial instruments.
(4)  For further information on interest rates associated with financial assets and liabilities, including derivative instruments, refer to Note 29.

The methods and assumptions used to estimate the fair values of 
financial instruments are as follows:
•  cash resources and securities are reported on the consolidated 

balance sheets at the fair value disclosed in Notes 3 and 4. 
These values are based on quoted market prices, if available. 
Where a quoted market price is not readily available, other 
valuation techniques are based on observable market rates 
used to estimate fair value;

•  loans reflect changes in the general level of interest rates that 
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; other assets and other liabilities, 
with the exception of derivative financial instruments, are 
assumed to approximate their carrying value, due to their 
short-term nature;

•  for derivative financial instruments where an active 

market does not exist, fair values are determined using 
valuation techniques that refer to observable market data, 
including discounted cash flow analysis, option pricing 
models and other valuation techniques commonly used by 
market participants;

•  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.

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

115

 
 
 
31.  RISK MANAGEMENT

As part of the Bank’s risk management practices, the risks that 
are significant to the business are identified, monitored and 
controlled. The most significant risks include credit risk, liquidity 
risk, market risk, insurance risk, operational risk, and regulatory 
and legal risk. The nature of these risks and how they are managed 
is provided in the Risk Management section of the Management 
Discussion and Analysis (MD&A).

As permitted by the CICA, certain of the risk management 
disclosure related to risks inherent with financial instruments is 

32.  CAPITAL MANAGEMENT

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

The Bank has a share incentive plan that is provided 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 20 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.

Significant capital transactions during 2011 include the 
redemption of $70,000 and issue of $300,000 of conventional 
subordinated debentures, which qualify as Tier 2 regulatory 
capital. In addition, proceeds from the 2011 exercise of warrants 
by the holders, net of warrants purchased and cancelled under 
the NCIBs and the cash redemption of all remaining outstanding 
warrants (see Note 19), increased Tier 1 regulatory capital by 
$27,270.

Basel II Capital Adequacy Accord
Regulatory capital and capital ratios are calculated in accordance 
with the requirements of OSFI, and capital is managed and 
reported in accordance with the requirements of the Basel 
II Capital Adequacy Accord (Basel II). 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, which is commonly 

included in the MD&A. The relevant MD&A sections are identified 
by shading within boxes and the content forms an integral part of 
these audited consolidated financial statements.

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.

referred to as Basel II. Based on the deemed credit risk of each 
type of asset, a weighting of 0% to 150% is assigned. As an 
example, a loan that is fully insured by the Canada Mortgage and 
Housing Corporation (CMHC) 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 Canadian financial institutions. Off-balance 
sheet assets, such as the notional amount of derivatives and 
some credit commitments, are included in the calculation of risk-
weighted assets and both the credit risk equivalent and the risk-
weighted calculations are prescribed by OSFI. As Canadian Direct 
Insurance (CDI) is subject to separate OSFI capital requirements 
specific to insurance companies, the Bank’s investment in CDI is 
deducted from total capital and CDI’s assets are excluded from the 
calculation of risk-weighted assets.

Current 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, 
OSFI has established 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 of common 
shareholders’ equity and innovative capital (to a regulatory 
maximum of 15% of net Tier 1 capital), while Tier 2 capital includes 
subordinated debentures (to the regulatory maximum amount of 
50% of net Tier 1 capital), the inclusion of the general allowance 
for credit losses (to the regulatory maximum) and any innovative 
capital not included in Tier 1.

116

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

 
During the year, the Bank complied with all internal and external 
capital requirements.

CAPITAL STRUCTURE AND REGULATORY RATIOS AT YEAR END 
($ thousands)

Tier 1 Capital

Retained earnings

Common shares

Preferred shares

Contributed surplus
Innovative capital instrument (1)

Non-controlling interest in subsidiary

Less goodwill of subsidiaries

Less securitization

Total

Tier 2 Capital

General allowance for credit losses (Tier 2A) (2)
Accumulated unrealized gains on available-for-sale equity securities, net of tax (3)
Subordinated debentures (Tier 2B) (4)

Total

Less investment in insurance subsidiary

Less securitization

Total Regulatory Capital
Regulatory Capital to Risk-Weighted Assets

Tier 1 capital

Tier 2 capital

Less investment in insurance subsidiary and securitization

Total Regulatory Capital Adequacy Ratio
Assets to Regulatory Capital Multiple (5)

2011

2010

$ 

650,028 

$ 

614,710 

 408,014 

 209,750 

 21,884 

 105,000 

 225 

 (37,852)

 (6,583)

 279,352 

 209,750 

 21,291 

 105,000 

 180 

 (37,723)

 (8,880)

 1,350,466 

 1,183,680 

 60,429 

 1,509 

 545,000 

 606,938 

 (80,941)

 (6,583)

 59,603 

 16,119 

 315,000 

 390,722 

 (68,993)

 (8,880)

$  1,869,880 

$ 

1,496,529 

 11.1% 

 5.0 

 (0.7)

 15.4% 

 7.9 

 11.3%

 3.7 

 (0.7)

 14.3%

 8.5 

(1)  The innovative capital instrument consists of CWB’s WesTS and may be included in Tier 1 capital to a maximum of 15% of net Tier 1 capital. Any excess innovative capital outstanding is included  

in Tier 2B capital.

(2)  Banks are allowed to include their general allowance for credit losses up to a prescribed percentage of risk-weighted assets in Tier 2A capital. At October 31, 2011, the Bank’s general allowance represented 

0.50% (2010 – 0.57%) of risk-weighted assets.

(3)  Accumulated other comprehensive income related to unrealized losses on certain available-for-sale equity securities, net of tax, reduces Tier 1 capital, while unrealized gains on certain available-for-sale 

equity securities, net of tax, increases Tier 2 capital.

(4)  Tier 2B capital may be included in Tier 2 capital to a maximum of 50% of net Tier 1 capital. Any excess Tier 2B capital is included in capital as net Tier 1 capital increases. At October 31, 2011 and 2010, all 

subordinated debentures are included in Tier 2B capital.

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

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

117

 
33.  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.

The banking and trust segment provides banking, including 
equipment leases from National Leasing, as well as trust and 

wealth management services to personal clients, small to 
medium-sized commercial business clients and institutional 
clients primarily in Western Canada. The insurance segment 
provides home and auto insurance to individuals in British 
Columbia and Alberta.

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 expenses (3)

Income taxes
Non-controlling interest in  

subsidiary

Net income (4)
Total average assets ($ millions) (5)

$ 

$ 

Banking and Trust

Insurance

2011

376,781 

 10,025 

 366,756 

 85,706 

 452,462 

 22,179 

 210,193 

 53,823 

 228 

166,039 

13,398 

$ 

$ 

$ 

2010

321,640 

 10,285 

 311,355 

 83,393 

 394,748 

 20,413 

 179,734 

 43,153 

 215 

151,233 

11,792 

$ 

$ 

$ 

2011

7,902 

 1,034 

 6,868 

 20,625 

 27,493 

 – 

 12,258 

 3,125 

 – 

12,110 

235 

$ 

$ 

$ 

2010

7,024 

 901 

 6,123 

 22,202 

 28,325 

 – 

 11,746 

 4,191 

 – 

12,388 

215 

Total

2011

$ 

384,683 

$ 

 11,059 

 373,624 

 106,331 

 479,955 

 22,179 

 222,451 

 56,948 

 228 

178,149 

13,633 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

2010

328,664 

 11,186 

 317,478 

 105,595 

 423,073 

 20,413 

 191,480 

 47,344 

 215 

163,621 

12,007 

(1)  Taxable Equivalent Basis (teb) – Most banks analyze revenue on a taxable equivalent basis to permit 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 GAAP 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 costs and policy acquisition costs (see Note 22) and also includes the gain on the sale of securities.
(3)  Amortization of intangible assets of $5,875 (2010 – $3,817) is included in the banking and trust segment and $125 (2010 – $250) in the insurance segment. Amortization of property and equipment total 
$10,383 (2010 – $8,450) for the banking and trust segment and $1,962 (2010 – $1,583) for the insurance segment while additions amounted to $17,518 (2010 – $19,274) for the banking and trust segment 
and $1,523 (2010 – $1,816) for the insurance segment. Goodwill of $34,598 (2010 – $34,469) is allocated to the banking and trust segment and $3,254 (2010 – $3,254) to the insurance segment.

(4)  Transactions between the segments are reported at the exchange amount, which approximates fair market value.
(5)  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.

118

SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

 
 
34.  ACQUISITION OF SUBSIDIARY

On February 1, 2010, the Bank acquired 100% of the outstanding 
common shares of National Leasing in exchange for $52,826 
in cash, 2,065,088 common shares of the Bank ($42,582) and 
estimated contingent consideration for a total cost of $126,618. 
Both the Bank and the vendors have the option to trigger the 
payment of the contingent consideration no earlier than November 
1, 2012. The final amount of the contingent consideration is not 

yet determinable and, under Canadian GAAP, any change will be 
recognized as an adjustment to goodwill in the period in which the 
contingency is resolved. 

National Leasing is a commercial equipment leasing company 
for small to mid-size transactions headquartered in Winnipeg, 
Manitoba.

Details of the fair values of assets and liabilities acquired are as follows:

Assets and Liabilities Acquired at Fair Value

Leases

Intangible assets

Goodwill

Retained interest in securitized assets

Long-term debt

Future income tax liabilities

Other items, net

Net assets acquired

$ 

$ 

322,512 

 40,708 

 27,937 

 19,109

 (270,630)

 (10,611)

 (2,407)

126,618 

Intangible assets include customer relationships, computer 
software, non-competition agreements, lease administration 
contracts and trademarks.  The trademark, which has an estimated 
value of $1,610, is not subject to amortization. National Leasing’s 
financial results, the goodwill and other intangible assets related 

to the acquisition are included in the banking and trust segment.  
The total amount of goodwill and intangible assets are not 
deductible for income tax purposes. The long-term debt was repaid 
immediately after the acquisition.

CWB Group 2011 Annual Report  •  SHAREDVISION 

119

35.  SUBSIDIARIES AND AFFILIATE

CANADIAN WESTERN BANk SUBSIDIARIES(1) 
(annexed in accordance with subsection 308 (3) of the Bank Act) 
October 31, 2011

National Leasing Group Inc.

Canadian Western Trust Company

Canadian Direct Insurance Incorporated

Valiant Trust Company

Canadian Western Bank Leasing Inc.

Adroit Investment Management Ltd.

Canadian Western Financial Ltd.

Canadian Western Bank Capital Trust (3)

Address of
Head Office

1525 Buffalo Place 
Winnipeg, Manitoba

Suite 3000, 10303 Jasper Avenue 
Edmonton, Alberta

Suite 600, 750 Cambie Street 
Vancouver, British Columbia

Suite 310, 606 4th St. S.W. 
Calglary, Alberta

Suite 3000, 10303 Jasper Avenue 
Edmonton, Alberta

Suite 1250, 10303 Jasper Avenue 
Edmonton, Alberta

Suite 3000, 10303 Jasper Avenue 
Edmonton, Alberta

Suite 3000, 10303 Jasper Avenue 
Edmonton, Alberta

(1)  The Bank owns 100% of the voting shares of each entity, with the exception of Adroit Investment Management Ltd. (76.25% ownership).
(2)  The carrying value of voting shares is stated at the Bank’s equity in the subsidiaries.
(3) 

In accordance with accounting standards, this entity is not consolidated as the Bank is not the primary beneficiary.

36.  COMPARATIVE FIGURES

Certain comparative figures have been reclassified to conform  
to the current period’s presentation. 

Carrying Value of
Voting Shares Owned

by the Bank(2)

$ 

159,216 

 96,610 

 84,330 

 15,083 

 10,109 

 6,756 

 1,621 

 1,000 

120 SHAREDVISION  •  CWB Group 2011 Annual Report

 
 
Locations

Canadian Western Bank

Regional Offices
•  British Columbia
  2200, 666 Burrard Street
  Vancouver

(604) 669.0081

  Greg Sprung
•  Northern Alberta
  3000, 10303 Jasper Avenue
  Edmonton

(780) 423.8888
  Michael Halliwell
•  Prairies
  606 - 4 Street S.W.
  Calgary

(403) 262.8700
  Glen Eastwood
•  Equipment Financing
  300, 5222 - 130 Avenue S.E.
  Calgary

(403) 257.8235
Jim Burke

Alberta

Edmonton
•	 Edmonton	Main
  11350 Jasper Avenue

(780) 424.4846

  Mike McInnis
•  103 Street
  10303 Jasper Avenue

(780) 423.8801

  Gary Mitchell
•  Old	Strathcona
  7933 - 104 Street
(780) 433.4286
  Donna Austin
•  South	Edmonton	Common
  2142 - 99 Street
(780) 988.8607
  Wayne Dosman
•  West Point
  17603 - 100 Avenue

(780) 484.7407

  David Hardy

Calgary
•  Calgary	Main
  606 - 4 Street S.W.
(403) 262.8700
Jeff Bowling
•  Calgary Chinook
  6606 MacLeod Trail S.W.

(403) 252.2299 

  Lew Christie
•  Calgary Foothills
  6127 Barlow Trail S.E.

(403) 269.9882
James Comstock

•  Calgary Northeast
  2810 - 32 Avenue N.E.

(403) 250.8838
June Lavigueur

•  Calgary South Trail Crossing
  300, 5222 - 130 Avenue S.E.

(403) 257.8235
  Rick Vandergraaf
•  Broker Buying Centre
  285, 2880 Glenmore Trail S.E.

(403) 720.8960

  David Miller

Grande Prairie
11226 - 100 Avenue
(780) 831.1888
Todd Kramer

Leduc
5407 Discovery Way
(780) 986.9858
George Bawden

Lethbridge
744 - 4 Avenue South
(403) 328.9199
Don Grummett

Medicine Hat
102, 1111 Kingsway Avenue S.E.
(403) 527.7321
Les Erickson

Red Deer
4822 - 51 Avenue
(403) 341.4000
Don Odell

Sherwood Park
251 Palisades Way
(780) 449.6699
Blair Zahara

St. Albert
300 - 700 St. Albert Trail
(780) 458.4001
Jeff Suggitt

British Columbia

Vancouver
•  Kitsilano
  3190 West Broadway

(604) 732.4262

  Demetra Papaspyros
•  Park	Place
  100, 666 Burrard Street

(604) 688.8711

  Rob Berzins

•  Vancouver	Real	Estate	
  2200, 666 Burrard Street

(604) 669.0081

  Mario Furlan
•  West	Broadway
  110, 1333 West Broadway

(604) 730.8818
Jules Mihalyi

Abbotsford
100, 2548 Clearbrook Road
(604) 855.4941
Hugh Ellis

Coquitlam
310, 101 Schoolhouse Street
(604) 540.8829
Ron Baker

Courtenay
200, 470 Puntledge Road
(250) 334.8888
Jason Zaichkowsky

Cranbrook
2nd Floor, Suite A
828 Baker Street
(250) 426.1140
Mike Eckersley

Kamloops 
101, 1211 Summit Drive
(250) 828.1070
Joshua Knaak

Kelowna
•  1674 Bertram Street

(250) 862.8008

  Bob Brown
•  Kelowna	Industrial
  101, 1505 Harvey Avenue

(250) 860.0088
Jim Kruiper

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

Designed by Vision Creative Inc.    www.visioncreativeinc.com

Richmond
4991 No. 3 Road
(604) 238.2800
Michael Yeung

Surrey
•  Panorama	Ridge
  103, 15230 Highway 10

(604) 575.3783

  Greg Noga
•  Strawberry	Hill
  1, 7548 - 120 Street

(604) 591.1898

  Bob Duffield

Victoria
1201 Douglas Street
(250) 383.1206
Bob Granger

Saskatchewan

Regina
100, 1881 Scarth Street
The Hill Center Tower II
(306) 757.8888
Kelly Dennis

Saskatoon 
•  City Centre
  244 - 2 Avenue
(306) 477.8888
  Ron Kowalenko
•	 North	Landing
  101, 2803 Faithfull Avenue

(306) 244.8008

  Dwayne Demeester

Yorkton
45, 277 Broadway Street East
(306) 782.1002
Barb Apps

Manitoba

Winnipeg
•  Winnipeg
  230 Portage Avenue

(204) 956.4669

  Robert Bean
•  Winnipeg Business Centre
  1525 Buffalo Place
(204) 452.0933
  Christopher Voogt

Canadian Direct Financial 
•  Edmonton
  2200, 10303 Jasper Avenue

(780) 441.2249 

  www.canadiandirectfinancial.com

Canadian Western Trust
•  Calgary
  310, 606-4 Street S.W.

(403) 717.3145

•  Edmonton
  3000, 10303 Jasper Avenue

(780) 969.8332

•  Toronto
  1800, 130 King Street West

(416) 360.1301

•  Vancouver
  600, 750 Cambie Street

(604) 685.2081

Optimum Mortgage
•  Edmonton
  3000, 10303 Jasper Avenue

(780) 423.9748
(Representation across Western Canada  

  and in Ontario)

Canadian Direct Insurance 
•  Edmonton
  500, 10115 - 100A Street

(780) 413.5933

•  Vancouver
  600, 750 Cambie Street

(604) 699.3678

Valiant Trust
•  Calgary
  310, 606-4 Street S.W.

(403) 233.2801

•  Edmonton
  3000, 10303 Jasper Avenue

(780) 441.2267

•  Toronto
  710, 130 King Street West

(416) 360.1481

•  Vancouver
  600, 750 Cambie Street 

(604) 699.4880

Adroit Investment Management
•  Edmonton
  1250, 10303 Jasper Avenue

(780) 429.3500

National Leasing
•  Winnipeg
  1525 Buffalo Place
(204) 954.9000
(Representation across all provinces and  

  territories in Canada)

Canadian Western Financial
•  Edmonton
  3000, 10303 Jasper Avenue

(780) 423.8888