Quarterlytics / Financial Services / Asset Management / Canadian Western Bank / FY2012 Annual Report

Canadian Western Bank
Annual Report 2012

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FY2012 Annual Report · Canadian Western Bank
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G R O U P
D Y N A M I C S

CANADIAN WeSteRN BANk GROUP
2012 ANNUAl RePORt

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Financial PerFormance 
Summary(1)

cwbankgroup.com

Total Loans 
($ millions)

Total Assets 
($ millions)

13,954

12,293

10,496

12,702

11,636

10,601

9,236

8,624

16,873

14,849

Total Revenue (teb) 
($ millions)

525

484

434

328

299

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

GAAP 

IFRS

GAAP 

IFRS

GAAP 

IFRS

Net Income Available to 
Common Shareholders 
($ millions)

148

150

102

96

Efficiency Ratio (teb)
(expenses to revenues)

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

172

45.2%

48.2%

44.1%

44.9%

44.8%

0.21%

0.19%

0.19%

0.15%

0.15%

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

GAAP 

IFRS

GAAP 

IFRS

GAAP 

IFRS

(1) As of 2011, financial results are reported under International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), as 
  opposed to Canadian Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), and may not be directly comparable.

Performance Targets

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

2012
Minimum Targets

2012
Performance

2013
Minimum Targets

10% 
7% 
10% 
0.20 to 0.25% 
46% 
15% 
1.05% 

15%  
9% 
14%  
0.19%  
44.8%  
15.0% 
1.08% 

8%
8%
10% 
0.18 to 0.23%
46%
14%
1.05%

(1)  Provision for credit losses divided by average total loans.
(2)  Efficiency ratio (teb) calculated as non-interest expenses divided by total revenues (teb), excluding the non-tax deductible change in fair value of contingent consideration.
(3)  Return on common shareholders’ equity calculated as net income available to common shareholders divided by average common shareholders’ equity.
(4)  Return on assets calculated as net income available to common shareholders divided by average total assets.

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

1

Canadian 
Western Bank 
Group at a 
Glance

CWB Group
Employees†: 2,000+
Clients: 600,000+ 
Total assets: $16.8 billion+
CEO:  Larry M. Pollock
Chair: Allan W. Jackson

Optimum Mortgage
Employees†: 45+
Total mortgages: $1,090 million+
Number of client mortgages: 3,700+

Operating Division

Canadian Western Bank 
Employees†: 1,250+
Consecutive profitable quarters: 98
Number of branches: 41
Number of commercial 
accounts: 15,000+

Canadian Western Bank (CWB), 
along with its affiliate companies 
and operating divisions, comprise 
CWB Group

Canadian Western Trust
Employees†: 65+
Investment accounts: 48,000+
Total assets under administration: 
$6.9 billion+

Canadian Western Financial 
Mutual fund representatives: 125+
Number of mutual fund clients: 3,700+

Operating Division

Subsidiary (Affiliate) Companies

Canadian Direct Financial 
Established: 2008
Client deposits: $177 million+
Provinces and territories in Canada
where products are offered: 12

Adroit Investment Management 
Employees†: 10+
Total assets under management: $855 million+
Number of client relationships: 300+

Canadian Direct Insurance 
Employees†: 300+
Number of policies outstanding: 190,000+
Annual gross written premiums: $134 million+

Valiant Trust 
Employees†: 45+
Client appointments in 2011: 560+
Number of clients: 320+

National Leasing 
Employees†: 280+
Total leases under management: $890 million+
Number of leases outstanding: 62,000+

2

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

† Includes both full- and part-time employees

canadian 
WeStern 
Bank

Canadian Western Bank (CWB) is the largest publicly traded 
Canadian bank headquartered in Western Canada. CWB Group is 
comprised of CWB, its five affiliate companies: National Leasing; 
Canadian Direct Insurance (CDI); Canadian Western Trust 
(CWT); Valiant Trust; and Adroit Investment Management, and 
its two operating divisions: Canadian Direct Financial (CDF); and 
Optimum Mortgage. Together, CWB Group offers a wide range 
of business and personal banking, trust, insurance and wealth 
management services across Canada. CWB Group’s vision and 
mission set our strategic direction and act as a guide for how we 
make decisions and serve our clients.

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

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

•	 Entrepreneurial	approaches	to	assist	clients	and

consistently grow our banking, leasing, trust, insurance and 
wealth management businesses;

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

resourceful and realistic;

•	 Relevant	financial	products	that	fit	with	our	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.

taBle oF contentS

Financial Performance Summary........................................................... 1

Governance Structure, Updates & Initiatives .................................. 14

CWB Group at a Glance ......................................................................... 2

Board of Directors .................................................................................. 16

Introduction ............................................................................................... 3

Management’s Discussion and Analysis...........................................17

Table of Contents ..................................................................................... 3

Financial Statements ............................................................................ 64

Message from the CEO – Larry Pollock ..............................................4

Shareholder Information......................................................................110

Interview with the President – Chris Fowler ...................................... 6

Award of Excellence Recipients for 2012 .........................................111

Interview with the Chair – Allan Jackson ........................................... 8

Eco Audit ..................................................................................................111

20-year Performance Highlights ........................................................ 10

Locations ................................................................................................. 112

Executive Committee & Senior Officers ............................................13

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

3

	
 
	
	
 
meSSage From the chieF 
executiVe oFFicer (ceo)

“We
achieved

record financial 
performance and 
strong growth amidst 
very challenging 
market conditions.”

Larry Pollock, CEO

With fiscal 2012 now behind us, I take great satisfaction in reporting 
that we achieved record financial performance and strong growth 
amidst consistently challenging market conditions. While talk of 
global uncertainties and slow economic growth permeated the 
headlines once again, we continued to do what we’ve done over the 
past 20-plus years: profitably and responsibly grow our businesses 
while adding value for our stakeholders. Record results were driven 
by strong double-digit loan growth, steadily improved credit quality 
and meaningful contributions from our complementary businesses. 
Managing the combined impact of very low interest rates and 
competitive factors was perhaps our greatest challenge this year as 
we continued to face pressure on net interest margin. Once again, 
our unique, growth-focused business has proven to be one of the 
most consistently profitable in the Canadian financial industry, as 
demonstrated by the achievement of the Bank’s 98th consecutive 
profitable quarter.  

Capital and liquidity regulatory requirements will change under Basel III, 
and we will ensure CWB Group’s business strategy continues to be 
focused on producing strong and consistent results for our shareholders, 
while complying with these new standards. One important component 
of our strategy includes a commitment to steadily develop our 
infrastructure and technology to both enhance growth and increase 
efficiencies. Infrastructure highlights this year include a beautiful 
new branch in Winnipeg, which adds to our presence in Manitoba. In 
Saskatchewan, we are relocating our Regina branch and are also building 
a new, much larger location in the growing city of Yorkton. Our flagship 
main branch in Edmonton will be relocated to a significantly larger 
location, while our St. Albert branch is also expanding to improve our 
presence in that city.   

4

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

Some other highlights in 2012 included Optimum Mortgage 
surpassing $1 billion of total loans, exceptional growth and 
profitability in our Equipment Finance Group and steadily growing 
contributions from National Leasing. The progression of and 
contributions from the retail side of our business, which is mainly 
focused on raising branch and trust deposits, was also very 
impressive this year.  Deposit growth was further augmented 
by the ongoing development of Canadian Direct Financial, our 
Internet-based division of the Bank, which we believe can add much 
more significant strategic value moving forward. In addition, we 
further enhanced and diversified our funding capabilities through 
highly successful offerings of CWB senior deposit notes 
in the debt capital markets.

As always, CWB Group’s many notable achievements were 
entirely owing to our dedicated staff and their collective 
commitment to delivering exceptional client services, which I 
believe are second to none. I would like to personally thank each 
and every one of our employees for their invaluable contributions, 
and their continued dedication in 2013 and beyond.  

As many of you know, I will be stepping down as CWB’s 
CEO in March 2013 at our Annual Meeting of Shareholders. 
I am proud to say that I am truly fortunate to have had the 
opportunity to participate in the spectacular growth and 
development of this organization from its infancy. When I first 
joined in 1990, we had a $16 million market capitalization, 
which has grown today to reach more than $2.3 billion.  Our 
balance sheet is comprised of nearly $17 billion of high quality 
assets, and, on an apples-to-apples comparison, I believe 
we have the strongest capital base in the Canadian banking 
industry. Our expansion into small-ticket leasing (National 
Leasing), insurance (Canadian Direct), trust services (Canadian 
Western Trust and Valiant Trust) and wealth management 
(Adroit) has resulted in very meaningful contributions toward 
CWB Group’s performance and diversification, as well as 
our award-winning corporate culture. I am also very proud 
of CWB’s history of maintaining one of the strongest growth 
profiles and lowest loan loss records in the industry.

So as I step away, I am leaving our shareholders with a proven 
and highly dedicated management team, as well as a rock-solid 
balance sheet. I say with complete confidence that CWB Group 
has never been stronger. We have more than 2,000 tremendous, 
innovative people who gain genuine satisfaction from both helping 
our clients and exceeding expectations. I am so very proud of them 
all. Our succession will be internal and Chris Fowler will provide 
excellent leadership as he transitions to the role of CEO. He is one 
of us, has lived the culture and has been a key to our success for 
more than 21 years. The senior management team remains intact, 
as does their collective wealth of experience. I would like to thank 
our shareholders for investing in CWB Group, and our dedicated 
employees, our Board and the many thousands of great clients 
who borrow, deposit, invest and choose to do business with us.

In conclusion, the greatest satisfaction in my career has been the 
privilege of working with such a tremendous group of people, some 
of whom are retired, some of whom have passed on, but many more 
who remain committed to taking CWB Group to the next level of its 
development. To our employees, clients and others, I will remember 
you forever for affording me the opportunity to work in such a dynamic 
workplace - and through it all, we had a whole lot of fun! 

Thank you very much for fulfilling all of my business goals and dreams 
beyond anything I could have imagined.

Sincerely,

Larry Pollock
Chief Executive Officer

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

5

an interVieW With 
the PreSident,
chriS FoWler

The title of this year’s Annual Report is “Group Dynamics.” 
What makes CWB Group a dynamic company?

We are dynamic in many ways, but it really boils down to our people 
and the passion they bring to their work each day. Our culture is 
entrepreneurial, which allows us to be highly responsive and flexible when 
making decisions. Maintaining our strong track record of growth also 
requires that we adapt and constantly evolve our businesses to ensure 
we maintain our competitive advantages, and continue to meet the 
needs of our clients and other stakeholders. This has been instrumental 
in our ability to thrive in all operating environments, including the current 
period of very low interest rates, the ups and downs of credit cycles 
and the challenges of the global financial crisis that began in 2008. 

CWB Group had another year of record financial performance in 2012.
What were some of the organization’s most notable accomplishments?

Our most significant financial accomplishment was the continuation of 
strong, profitable growth despite a challenging operating environment. 
We met or exceeded all of our 2012 performance targets. However, the 
combination of very low interest rates, a flat yield curve, and competitive 
pressures continued to materially impact our net interest margin, which 
was ultimately reflected in constrained revenue growth compared to 
what would be expected in a more normal historical environment. We 
were pleased to finalize the Bank’s ownership of National Leasing in the 
third quarter. We’re also very proud of our placement among Canada’s 
50 Best Employers for a seventh consecutive year, an accomplishment 
that was announced in November 2012. Our collective commitment 
to offering exceptional levels of service is one of CWB Group’s key 
competitive advantages, and our group of highly dedicated and 
enthusiastic employees continually demonstrate this through their 
invaluable contributions.   

You were recently appointed as CWB Group’s President. What is your 
vision for the future and how are you positioning CWB Group to achieve 
that vision?

CWB Group’s vision is to be seen as crucial to our clients’ futures. This 
reflects our desire to be viewed by clients as a highly valued and strategic 
financial partner. Every client has different needs, and our vision requires 
that we are equipped to recognize those needs and focus on offering 
our clients the financial services that add the most value for them. One 
example could include a full business banking relationship, where we 
also provide personal banking, wealth management and trust services. 
However, it’s equally applicable in circumstances where we simply 
provide equipment financing for a business that requires assistance 
with its capital expenditures. In either case, our goal is to be the partner 
of choice for our clients in the areas where we have proven expertise.

“We are
dynamic

in many ways, but it really 
boils down to our people 
and the passion they bring 
to their work each day.”
Chris Fowler, President and Chief Operating Officer

6

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

We are communicating and acting to achieve this vision across 
every corner of our business. Our collective commitment to exceed 
expectations needs to be cemented in our approaches with clients, 
the way we interact with our fellow employees and how we get 
involved in the communities where we operate. The achievement of 
our vision also requires a high degree of trust, and we will continue to 
focus on building strong business relationships.

You have worked with Larry Pollock and several members of  
CWB Group’s senior management team for more than 20 years.  
How has this prepared you to lead CWB Group into the future?

I have benefited over many years by working closely with members 
of senior management, both past and present, who have tremendous 
amounts of experience and a long history of success. Our existing 
management team remains in place and we all share common goals, 
have deep mutual respect and work very well together. I have also 
learned a lot from Larry, who has been a highly valued mentor for me 
for many years. I believe my breadth of experience and knowledge of 
different facets of our business gives me the necessary perspectives 
to further enhance our culture and continue leading CWB Group’s 
growth story. I have transitioned over my career from generating 
business myself to becoming a facilitator for all of our businesses. 
I am now responsible for cultivating a work environment where 
everyone can be successful. It is my job to make sure our entire group 
of companies works together on behalf of our clients, shareholders, 
communities and other stakeholders. This objective forms the basis 
of our strategic theme to make the whole worth more than the sum of 
the parts. 

Where do you see the greatest opportunities for growth across 
CWB Group’s lines of business?

We have a strong presence in all of our key western Canadian 
markets, but there is still substantial room for growth. The same can 
be said for each company of CWB Group. Our continued investment 
in people, infrastructure and technology will position us to better 
manage the development of our businesses and enhance CWB 
Group’s capacity to deliver our clients a more comprehensive suite 
of relevant products and services. I believe this creates tremendous 
potential to extend more financial offerings to our existing clients, 
while also attracting new business. 

We have a strategic focus and desire to grow sources of non-interest 
revenue in both the Bank and our complementary companies. While 
we won’t sway from our primary geographical focus in Western 
Canada, we see meaningful potential in extending more of our 
business offerings to the rest of Canada, particularly in Ontario. By 
necessity, most of the very large Canadian banks have global growth 
strategies, but we still have significant untapped markets right 
here within our borders. Effectively managing risks, including the 
challenges of ongoing regulatory change, is also a top priority for us. 

CWB Group has an award-winning culture. How does the culture  
impact business success?

The basis of our organizational culture was established by our founders’ 
belief that building strong relationships was key to business success. They 
further believed that maintaining our headquarters and core presence in 
Western Canada would prove to be a sustainable competitive advantage 
in the banking industry – and they were right. We are committed to being 
an employer of choice, and we work to foster an environment where our 
employees know they make a difference. We also believe it resonates 
strongly when building client relationships if you have highly satisfied and 
engaged people. Our culture is crucial to CWB Group’s success, and we 
will continue to nurture this core advantage going forward.

What major investments are being made to better position CWB  
Group for the future?

In addition to ongoing investment in our key assets – the people who 
work here – over the past five years we have undertaken an extensive 
redevelopment of both our technology and infrastructure. I’m pleased 
to say that we are now positioned to begin realizing more of the benefits 
of these investments, such as those offered by the new loan origination 
system we implemented in 2011. We just launched a major program to 
replace our core banking system, which is expected to be completed by 
the second half of 2015. This will create many additional advantages, as 
well as business flexibility for us. In particular, it will augment our ability to 
benefit from economies of scale and help us better understand our client 
relationships so we can further enhance our service offerings. Together 
with the loan origination system, the core banking system is a critical 
component to collect and disseminate the data we need for an eventual 
transition to an advanced internal ratings based (AIRB) approach for 
calculating risk-weighted assets. Although it will be subject to regulatory 
approval, the implementation of an AIRB methodology will not only help 
us better manage our credit portfolio as we continue to grow, it will give 
us additional flexibility with regard to managing regulatory capital.

What are your expectations for CWB Group in 2013 and beyond?

Our primary goal is to meaningfully grow our earnings and assets while 
continuing to strategically invest in CWB Group’s future. This goal 
is partly reflected in our 2013 target for another year of high quality, 
double-digit loan growth, which we will continue to support with our 
proven underwriting capabilities. CWB’s solid capital position has us well 
positioned to manage the upcoming transition to Basel III. We are also 
working hard to better define key performance indicators for certain parts 
of our businesses to enhance our strategic planning, implementation and 
measurement processes. Finally, given that we are experiencing a shift in 
executive leadership, one of my primary commitments is to ensure that 
we continue developing and supporting our culture and our great team 
of employees. The way I see it, CWB Group has incredible potential. For 
our team, our clients and our shareholders, I am extremely excited about 
what the future holds. 

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

7

an interVieW With 
the chair,
allan JackSon

As Chair of the Board of Directors (the Board), how would you  
summarize the Board’s main areas of focus over the past year? 

As Chair, my goal is to ensure the effectiveness of our Board as 
we collectively oversee management of the organization. While 
our Board sets the tone for CWB Group’s strategic direction, the 
management team is ultimately responsible for making it happen. 
When I look back over the past year, working on our transition plan 
for a new CEO continued to be a headline topic, but it was something 
that our Board has been focused on for quite some time. There 
was also heightened focus at both the Board and management 
levels on various aspects of risk management. While effective 
risk management has always been a fundamental objective for 
CWB Group, evolving governance practices combined with the 
organization’s growth, in terms of both size and complexity, has 
required us to look at certain things through slightly different lenses. 

Can you give us some additional perspective on the Board’s view of 
risk management, evolving governance practices and the  changing 
regulatory landscape?

This year we worked to better align our risk management 
practices with an enterprise-wide risk framework. One of our 
Board’s top priorities is to maintain a comprehensive approach to 
risk. We also need to ensure that we have the right tools, people 
and processes in place to effectively deliver on this part of our 
mandate.  Progress continued in 2012 on the formalization and 
approval of a Group-wide risk management framework. 

One of the significant developments faced by all financial 
institutions worldwide lies in the ongoing use of sophisticated 
computer models to assess risk. While these models are 
wonderful tools to assist with risk management, they should 
never be relied upon as a substitute for good judgment. CWB 
Group has never lost sight of the importance of good judgment, 
and we will ensure this continues to be the case going forward.  

We continually evaluate best practices for governance and take a 
prudent approach in assessing, or adopting, these practices in the 
context of what we believe are in the best interests of CWB Group 
and its shareholders.  In 2012, we completed enhancements to our 
self-assessment process to help confirm the effectiveness of the 
Board, our committees and the performance of individual directors.     

Managing the impact of ongoing regulatory changes is the “new 
normal” for all financial institutions globally, including CWB Group. 
Given the importance of this topic and the implications of changing 
regulations on our businesses, we remain abreast of pending changes, 
as well as their potential impacts. At our request, representatives 
from the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions 

8

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

(OSFI) gave our Board a summary of the evolving regulatory 
landscape on two separate occasions this year. I’m very pleased 
to confirm that CWB Group is well positioned for the forthcoming 
transition to the Basel III regulatory capital  framework in 2013. 

You mentioned the Board’s emphasis on ensuring an effective
CEO transition when Larry Pollock steps down; can you provide  
some details about the Board’s approach to this?

The Board undertook an extensive planning process over the past 
several years to determine Larry’s successor. We looked broadly at 
the marketplace and closely considered the needs of our organization, 
both today and in the future. Resoundingly, the Board decided Chris 
Fowler is the right person to lead CWB Group, our growth and our 
people going forward. He is also the right person to ensure we uphold 
our invaluable organizational culture. Accordingly, in August of this 
year, we appointed Chris to the role of President, in addition to Chief 
Operating Officer (COO). Larry will continue as CEO until our Annual 
Meeting of Shareholders in March 2013. After that date, Chris will 
formally take on the role of President and CEO.

Can you explain why the Board chose Chris Fowler to lead  CWB 
Group going forward?  

Chris has been with us for more than 21 years, and has been a key part 
of our executive management team for the past six years. As our COO, 
he was instrumental in creating the current strategic business plan 
for CWB Group, and has always impressed our Board members with 
his thoughtful vision of the organization’s future. In many respects, 
choosing Chris was an easy decision. He is a principled leader who is 
highly motivated and enthusiastic about the opportunity to take CWB 
Group to the next level of its development. Chris is a team player who 
possesses the qualities and attributes our employees, clients, investors 
and the marketplace expect of the senior leader of our growing group 

 
 
of companies. I believe Chris personifies our culture: he is intelligent, 
kind, responsive, dedicated, humble, collaborative, a smart thinker 
and is always focused on doing the right thing for the right reasons. 
He has the complete confidence and support of the directors, and I 
am personally very excited to watch him deliver in his new role.

How has Larry Pollock influenced CWB Group’s success and will 
he have an on ongoing role in the organization in the future?  

As a Board, we cannot express enough appreciation for Larry’s 
amazing contributions and his strong leadership role in helping 
build CWB Group to what it is today. He has been our President 
and CEO for 22 years and has been instrumental in our growth 
from a small, regional bank into a multi-faceted financial services 
firm that does business across the country. What a tremendous 
legacy he has given us. In addition to our achievement of 
consistently strong financial performance, Larry’s leadership is 
defined by two other achievements that are just as impressive. 
First, he spearheaded the development of a workplace culture 
for CWB Group that is envied by companies across Canada. 
Second, Larry assembled an incredibly talented and effective 
senior management team that has been equally crucial to our 
success. This team is ready to continue to deliver and support our 
incoming CEO in his new role. The exceptional performance and 
depth of current executive and senior management was a deciding 
factor in our selection of Chris as CWB Group’s next leader.

Larry has a two-year employment agreement to serve the 
organization in an advisory capacity, as requested by the executive 
team and the Board. We are fortunate that Larry has agreed to stay 
involved with CWB Group, as his ongoing support and insight will 
be invaluable.

“We
continually

evaluate best practices 
for governance and take 
a prudent approach in 
assessing, or adopting, 
these in the context of what 
we believe are in the best 
interests of CWB Group and 
its shareholders.”

Allan Jackson, Chair of the Board

So what does CWB Group’s strong financial position and the  
forthcoming change in leadership mean for the organization  
and its shareholders? 

In almost all respects, it’s business as usual. Like every other day, 
the collective goal of the Board, management and all other CWB 
Group employees is to continue to work together to profitably grow 
our businesses by supporting both our clients and each other. It’s 
an exciting time for all of us as a new leader brings forth his ideas 
and vision for building on the success of CWB Group, and tapping 
further into its significant potential. 

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

9

172

150

148

96

102

96

20-year PerFormance 
highlightS(1)

NET INCOME AVAILABLE 
TO COMMON 
SHAREHOLDERS
$MILLIONS

20 yearS 

72

54

44

38

30

30

26

19

20

16

13

11

5

2

‘93

‘94

‘95

‘96

‘97

‘98

‘99

‘00

‘01

‘02

‘03

‘04

‘05

‘06

‘07

‘08

‘09

‘10

‘11

‘12

IFRS

$0.62

$0.54

$0.44

$0.44

$0.42

(1) As of 2011, financial results are reported under International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), as  
  opposed to Canadian Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), and may not be directly comparable.

GAAP

DIVIDENDS PER 
COMMON SHARE(2)
20 YEARS 

20 yearS 

$0.34

$0.25

$0.20

$0.19(4)

$0.1200(3)

$0.0750

$0.09

$0.10

$0.0850

$0.12

$0.0625

$0.0375

$0.0125

$0.0175

$0.0250

‘93

‘94

‘95

‘96

‘97

‘98

‘99

‘00

‘01

‘02

‘03

‘04

‘05

‘06

‘07

‘08

‘09

‘10

‘11

‘12

(2) Dividends are adjusted for stock dividends effecting a two- 

for-one split of CWB’s common shares in both 2005 and 2007.

(3)  Includes the last annual dividend and one semi-annual dividend.
(4)  Includes the last semi-annual dividend and three quarterly dividends.

10

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

 
 
525

484

434

328

TOTAL REVENuES (teb)
$MILLIONS

20 yearS 

299

273

222

186

152

133

113

105

89

75

68

57

51

41

23

17

‘93

‘94

‘95

‘96

‘97

‘98

‘99

‘00

‘01

‘02

‘03

‘04

‘05

‘06

‘07

‘08

‘09

‘10

‘11

‘12

GAAP 

IFRS

12,293

13,954

10,496

9,236

TOTAL LOANS
$MILLIONS

20 yearS 

8,624

7,406

5,782

4,590

3,930

3,529

3,182

2,883

2,560

2,254

1,990

1,710

1,478

1,135

600

511

‘93

‘94

‘95

‘96

‘97

‘98

‘99

‘00

‘01

‘02

‘03

‘04

‘05

‘06

‘07

‘08

‘09

‘10

‘11

‘12

GAAP

IFRS

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

11

PROVISION FOR CREDIT LOSSES
20 yearS 

CWB Group

Average of six largest Canadian banks(5)

(5) Average of the six largest Canadian banks is calculated
based on information contained in the publicly available 
company reports of the following Toronto Stock Exchange 
(TSX) trading symbols: BMO, BNS, CM, NA, RY and TD.

1.00%

0.86%

0.56%

0.53%

0.42%

0.40%

0.37%

0.29%

0.25%

0.15%

0.24%

0.21%

0.20%

0.20%

0.16%

0.15%

0.15%

0.21%

0.19%

0.19%

0.76%

0.51%

0.47%

0.38%

0.35%

0.32%

0.61%

0.47%

0.38%

0.30%

0.29%

0.32%

0.30%

0.25%

0.22%

0.18%

0.21%

0.23%

0.26%

0.25%

‘93

‘94

‘95

‘96

‘97

‘98

‘99

‘00

‘01

‘02

‘03

‘04

‘05

‘06

‘07

‘08

‘09

‘10

‘11

‘12

GAAP

IFRS

CWB BANkING LOCATIONS

Banking location

Grande Prairie

Prince George

St. Albert
Edmonton (5)

Sherwood Park

Leduc

Red Deer

Kamloops

Calgary (5)

Courtenay
Nanaimo

Vancouver (4)
Coquitlam
Langley

Kelowna(2)
Cranbrook

Richmond
Victoria

Abbotsford

Surrey (2)

Medicine Hat

Lethbridge

Saskatoon (2)

Yorkton

Regina

Winnipeg (2)

12

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

executiVe 
committee 
& Senior oFFicerS

CWB Group Executive Committee
•	 Larry	M.	Pollock	
  Chief Executive Officer
•	 Chris	H.	Fowler
  President and  
  Chief Operating Officer
•	 William	J.	Addington,	FCMA
  Executive Vice President
•	 Tracey	C.	Ball,	FCA,	ICD.D
  Executive Vice President and
  Chief Financial Officer
•	 Randy	W.	Garvey,	FCMA
  Executive Vice President
•	 Brian	J.	Young
  Executive Vice President

CWB Group Senior Officers
Corporate Officers 
	•	 Richard	R.	Gilpin
  Senior Vice President
  Credit Risk Management
•	 Ricki	L.	Golick
  Senior Vice President and 
  Treasurer 
•	 Carolyn	J.	Graham,	FCA
  Senior Vice President and 
  Chief Accountant 

•	 Gail	L.	Harding,	Q.C.
  Senior Vice President,
  General Counsel and
  Corporate Secretary
•	 Darrell	Jones
  Senior Vice President and
  Chief Information Officer
•	 Uve	Knaak
  Senior Vice President,
  Human Resources 
•	 Jack	C.	Wright
  Senior Vice President

Commercial and 
Retail Banking
•	 Michael	N.	Halliwell
  Senior Vice President and
  Regional General Manager 
•	 Gregory	J.	Sprung
  Senior Vice President and
  Regional General Manager
•	 Glen	Eastwood
  Senior Vice President and  
  Regional General Manager

National Leasing 
•	 Nick	R.	Logan
  President and 
  Chief Executive Officer

Trust Services
•  Canadian Western Trust
	 Matt	Colpitts
  Vice President and 
  General Manager 
•  Valiant Trust
Jay	Campbell
  General Manager

Canadian Direct Insurance 
•	 Brian	J.	Young
  President and 
  Chief Executive Officer

Adroit Investment Management
•	 David	Schuster
  President and
  Chief Executive Officer

Ombudsman
•	 R.	Graham	Gilbert

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

13

 
 
 
 
 
	
We are
responsible

for developing and monitoring CWB 
Group’s governance structure, overseeing 
risk management and fostering a culture of 
ethical conduct and accountability.

goVernance 
Structure, 
uPdateS & 
initiatiVeS

Effective corporate governance is critical in the sound functioning 
of a financial institution. CWB’s Board of Directors (the Board) 
is responsible for developing and monitoring CWB Group’s 
governance structure, overseeing risk management and fostering 
a culture of ethical conduct and accountability. By focusing on risk 
oversight, supporting a culture of integrity, and favouring long-term 
sustainable profitability over short-term gain, the Board protects 
and enhances shareholder value.

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 is taken. As part of this oversight, in 2012, 
the Board approved CWB’s Risk Framework and management is 
required to provide the Board with quarterly progress updates.

Composition
Members of the Board have been carefully selected for their 
expertise in financial services or in key markets in which 
CWB operates. During fiscal 2012, the Board was composed 
of fourteen business and community leaders whose diverse 
backgrounds and experiences are invaluable in developing 
the CWB Group’s strategic direction. Thirteen of the fourteen 
directors are independent. Mr. Pollock, CWB’s CEO is the 
only non-independent member of the Board. It is a regulatory 
requirement for a bank’s CEO to serve on its board. 

As CWB Group grows and evolves, the demands on the Board 
also evolve. To this end, the Board assesses, in alternating years, 
the functioning of the Board and the skills of individual directors. 
These assessments ensure that the Board maintains an appropriate 
complement of skills, experiences and qualifications. In recent 
years, the Board’s assessment methodology has been evaluated 
and strengthened. As a result of the most recent Board assessment, 
in December 2012, Andrew Bibby was appointed as the Board’s 
fifteenth member. The Board believes Mr. Bibby’s expertise in real 
estate will be a valuable complement to the Board’s set of skills.

Oversight
The Board has implemented a committee structure to assist it in its 
governance role. Four committees made up of directors who report 
directly to the Board, are given specific oversight roles over the 
CWB Group. Full mandates of each committee, as well as the Board 
mandate, can be found in the Corporate Governance section of the 
CWB Group website, cwbankgroup.com. Below is an abbreviated 
description of each committee’s mandate:

•	 Audit	Committee

The Audit Committee assists the Board by reviewing and working 
with management on CWB Group’s financial disclosure. To ensure 
the accuracy of CWB Group’s financial reporting, the Committee is 
also responsible for overseeing CWB Group’s internal controls.

14

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

 
•	 Governance	Committee

The Governance Committee’s role is to review existing governance 
practices and ensure they align with legal requirements, regulatory 
requirements and industry best practices. It is also responsible for 
nominating and recommending compensation for directors. This 
Committee acts as the conduct review committee under the 
Bank Act.

•	 Human	Resources	Committee

The Human Resources Committee oversees CWB Group’s human 
capital. The Committee works with CWB Group management to 
foster a culture of ethical conduct. The Committee also ensures 
that executive compensation is competitive and fair and that CWB 
Group’s succession plans are adequate.

•	 Loans	Committee

The Loans Committee establishes lending policies and guidelines 
for CWB Group, and establishes lending limits for the Bank’s 
management. This Committee is also responsible for evaluating 
and approving applications for loans above these limits.

ethical conduct
At CWB Group, ethical conduct is not only a legal and regulatory 
requirement but a core value that allows CWB Group to build and 
develop relationships with customers and other stakeholders in the 
communities in which CWB Group operates.

CWB Group has codes of conduct for its directors, officers and 
employees. Annually, each CWB Group director, officer and 
employee must review the appropriate code of conduct and certify 
that he or she has abided by the code. CWB Group’s whistleblower 
policy allows for the anonymous reporting of complaints and 
concerns. Concerns and complaints, however raised, are 
investigated and appropriate action taken.

Compensation	Programs
CWB Group’s director and executive compensation policies are 
strongly aligned with governance best practices. For the past 
two years, CWB Group has asked shareholders to vote on the 
Board’s approach to executive compensation. To further ensure 
that compensation is competitive and fair, the Human Resources 
Committee is authorized to seek the advice of an independent 
compensation advisor.

In addition, to align pay with risk management principles, directors 
and senior officers are required to maintain a minimum level of 
share ownership to encourage decision-making that aligns with the 
interests of shareholders. Compensation is linked to CWB Group’s 
performance and a recoupment or “clawback” policy discourages 
short-term decision-making and excessive risk taking.

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.

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

15

For	more	information
The Board supports an open dialogue of ideas with shareholders. 
Shareholders may contact the Board directly about corporate 
governance issues by emailing chairoftheboard@cwbank.com. 
Additionally, the Corporate Governance section of CWB Group’s 
website, cwbankgroup.com, contains more detailed information 
about CWB Group’s practices. 

Finally, shareholders are welcome to attend CWB Group’s annual and 
special meeting of shareholders in March 2013 to meet with directors 
and senior management and to hear about CWB Group’s future direction. 
Shareholders wishing to attend the shareholder meeting are encouraged 
to review CWB Group’s management proxy circular for information on 
how they can attend and participate.

•		 Larry	M.	Pollock, 
  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 and 
  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

Board of Directors (Oct 31, 2012)
•		 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	(Chair),
  President and 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

Corporate	Governance	Highlights
•	 The	Board	is	led	by	a	non-executive	chairman	to	ensure		

independent leadership.

•	 Independent	directors	set	time	aside	at	each	Board	and		
  Committee meeting to discuss issues without the presence  
  of management.
•	 The	Board	and	Committees	have	the	power	to	retain		
independent advisors to assist them in fulfilling their  

  mandates.
•	 Shareholders	vote	for	individual	directors	rather	than	a	slate		
  of directors.
•	 Directors	who	receive	more	“withhold”	than	“for”	votes	from		
shareholders are required to tender their resignation for the  

  Board’s consideration.
•	 At	CWB	Group’s	2012	annual	shareholder	meeting,	the		
  Board’s approach to executive compensation was approved  
  by 93.8% of votes cast by shareholders.
•	 The	Board	prioritizes	ongoing	director	education	by	requesting
  presentations from management and outside experts.
•	 In	2012	the	Board’s	self	assessment	process,	which	assesses		
the effectiveness of the Board, Committees and individual  

  directors, was enhanced.
•	 In	2012,	the	Board	focused	on	succession	planning	and	
  named Chris Fowler as CWB Group’s President and 
  Chief Operating Officer.
•	 In	2012,	the	Board	approved	the	CWB	Risk	Management		
  Framework.

16

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ManageMent’s Discussion anD analysis

table of contents

17  business Profile  
and strategy 

20  grouP financial  
Performance 

20  Overview 
23  Net Interest Income 
24  Other Income   
26  Non-interest Expenses  

and Efficiency

28  Income and Capital Taxes 
28  Comprehensive Income   
29  Cash and Securities 
29  Loans 
33  Credit Quality   
36  Deposits
38  Other Assets and Other Liabilities 

38  Liquidity Management 
41  Capital Management
46  Financial Instruments  
and Other Instruments 

46  Acquisitions 
46  Off-balance Sheet Arrangements
47  summary of Quarterly  

results and fouth Quarter

47  Quarterly Results 

48  Fourth Quarter of 2012 

49  accounting Policies  

and estimates

49   Critical Accounting Estimates 
50  Changes in Accounting Policies 
51   Future Changes in Accounting  

Policies

52  risk management 

52   Overview 
54  Credit Risk
56  Market Risk 
58   Liquidity and Funding Risk
59  Capital Risk 
60  Operational Risk
61  Reputation Risk
61  Regulatory Risk
61 
Insurance Risk
62  Other Risk Factors 

63  uPdated share 
information 

63  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 Schedule I 
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. With a focus on 
mid-market commercial banking, real estate financing, equipment 
financing and energy lending, CWB’s proven strategy is mainly based 
on building strong customer relationships and providing value-added 
services to businesses and individuals in Western Canada. The 
Bank also 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 
primarily provided through a network of 41 client-focused branches 
in select locations across the four western provinces. Canadian 
Direct Financial® (CDF) is an Internet-based division of the Bank that 
offers a range of deposit and registered savings products directly to 
customers in all provinces and territories except Quebec. National 
Leasing specializes in commercial equipment leasing for small- and 
mid-sized transactions and is represented across all provinces of 
Canada. CWT provides trustee and custody services to independent 
financial advisors, corporations, brokerage firms and individuals. 
Optimum Mortgage, a division of CWT, underwrites and administers 
residential mortgages sourced through an extensive network of 
mortgage brokers located in Western Canada and select markets in 
Ontario. 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’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.”

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

17

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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 technology, improving 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 
strategic acquisitions;

•	 Supporting return on common shareholders’ equity by maintaining 
strong operating performance, an efficient capital structure, and 
continued diversification into business areas with higher margins 
and 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 International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) 
and are presented in Canadian dollars.

The following pages contain management’s discussion of the 
financial performance of CWB 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, Canadian Western Bank makes written and 
verbal forward-looking statements. Statements of this type are 
included in the Annual Report and reports to shareholders and may 
be included in filings with Canadian securities regulators or in other 
communications such as press releases and corporate presentations. 
Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, 
statements about the Bank’s objectives and strategies, targeted and 
expected financial results and the outlook for the Bank’s businesses 
or for the Canadian economy. Forward-looking statements are 
typically identified by the words “believe”, “expect”, “anticipate”, 
“intend”, “estimate”, “may increase”, “may impact”, “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 level 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 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 
2013 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 2013, management’s assumptions 
included:

•	 Modest economic growth in Canada and relatively stronger 

performance in the four western provinces;

•	 Relatively stable prices for energy and other commodities 
compared to the levels observed at October 31, 2012;

•	 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 the 

continuation of a very low interest rate environment, a flat interest 
rate curve, competitive factors and ongoing uncertainties about 
global economic conditions. 

Potential risks that would have a material adverse impact on the 
Bank’s current economic expectations and forecasts include a global 
economic recession spurred by unfavourable developments in the 
euro zone, the strength of economic recovery in the United States, a 
meaningful slowdown in China’s economic growth, or a significant 
and sustained deterioration in Canadian residential real estate prices.

18

CWB Group 2012 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 fiscal 2012 adjustment to taxable equivalent basis of 
$9.1 million (2011 – $11.0 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 IFRS 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, adjusted cash earnings per common share, 
return on common shareholders’ equity, return on assets, efficiency 
ratio, net interest margin, tangible common equity to risk-weighted 
assets, common equity Tier 1, Tier 1 and total capital adequacy ratios, 
and average balances do not have standardized meanings prescribed 
by IFRS 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;

•	 Adjusted cash earnings per common share – diluted earnings per 
common share excluding the after-tax amortization of acquisition-
related intangible assets and the non-tax deductible change in fair 
value of contingent consideration. These exclusions represent non-
cash charges mainly related to the acquisition of National Leasing 
Group Inc. and are not considered to be indicative of ongoing 
business performance;

•	 Return on common shareholders’ equity – net income available to 
common shareholders divided by average common shareholders’ 
equity;

•	 Return on assets – net income available to common shareholders 

divided by average total assets;

•	 Efficiency ratio – non-interest expenses divided by total revenues 

excluding the non-tax deductible change in fair value of contingent 
consideration;

•	 Net interest margin – net interest income divided by average total 

assets;

•	 Tangible common equity to risk-weighted assets – common 
shareholders’ equity less subsidiary goodwill divided by risk-
weighted assets, calculated in accordance with Basel II guidelines 
issued by the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions 
Canada (OSFI);

•	 Basel II Tier 1 and total capital adequacy ratios – in accordance 

with guidelines issued by OSFI;

•	 Basel III common equity Tier 1, Tier 1 and total capital ratios – in 
accordance with CWB’s interpretation of the Basel III capital 
requirements and OSFI proposed guidance; and

•	 Average balances – average daily balances. 

adoPtion of international financial  
rePorting standards
The Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants has transitioned 
Canadian generally accepted accounting principles (Canadian GAAP) 
for publicly accountable entities to IFRS. The transition is applicable 
to 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, CWB’s consolidated financial statements for 
the 2012 fiscal year are prepared in accordance with IFRS, including 
comparative information for 2011 and the opening transition balance 
sheet as at November 1, 2010. Unless otherwise noted, amounts 
reflected for 2010 and earlier are prepared in accordance with 
Canadian GAAP. Please refer to the Changes in Accounting Policies 
section of this MD&A for further information on the adoption of 
IFRS. 

segment rePorting 
Commencing in the first quarter of 2012, operating results are 
presented as one segment – Banking and Financial Services – 
operating in one geographic region – Canada. 

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

19

grouP financial Performance

overview

highlights of 2012 (compared to 2011)

•	 Record net income available to common shareholders  

•	 Return on assets of 1.08%, down one basis point.

of $172.2 million, up 15%, and the achievement of the Bank’s 
98th consecutive profitable quarter.

•	 Very strong loan growth of 14%.

•	 Record diluted earnings per common share of $2.22, up 14% 
(adjusted cash earnings per common share of $2.30, up 6%).

•	 Record total revenues (teb) of $525.5 million, up 9%.

•	 Net interest margin (teb) of 2.79%, down 20 basis points.

•	 Improved credit quality as evidenced by relatively low write-offs 
and a provision for credit losses measured as a percentage of 
average loans of 19 basis points, unchanged from 201 1.

•	 Ten consecutive quarterly reductions in the level of gross 

impaired loans.

•	 Return on common shareholders’ equity of 15.0%, up 30 

basis points.

•	 Efficiency ratio (teb) of 44.8%, an improvement of 10 

basis points.

•	 A Basel II tangible common equity to risk-weighted assets ratio 
of 8.8%, up from 8.6%; a Tier 1 capital ratio of 10.6%, down 
from 1 1.1%; and a total capital ratio of 13.8%, down from 15.4%.

•	 Pro forma application of the all-in Basel III standards to the 
Bank’s financial position at October 31, 2012 results in an 
estimated 8.1% common equity Tier 1 (CET1) ratio, 9.9% Tier 1 
capital ratio and 13.1% total capital ratio.

•	 Cash dividends of $0.62 per share paid to common 

shareholders, up 15%.

•	 Total assets and total loans surpassed $16 billion and $13 billion, 

respectively.

table 1 – select annual Financial inForMation (1) 
($ ThOUSANDS, ExCEPT PER ShARE AMOUNTS)

key Performance indicators

Net income available to common shareholders

$ 

172,197

$ 

149,538

$ 

148,413

$ 

22,659

 15%

ifrs

2012 

IFRS

2011 

Canadian  

GAAP (4)

2010 

Change from 2011

$

%

Earnings per share

Basic

Diluted

Adjusted 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) (1)

Total revenues

Total assets

Debt

Dividends per common share

 2.24 

 2.22

 2.30

 2.07 

 1.95

 2.17

 2.26 

 2.05

 2.09

 0.17 

 0.27

 0.13

 8 

 14

 6

 0.19%

 0.19%

 0.21%

 –bp (2)

 2.79 

 2.73 

 44.8 

 45.6 

 15.0 

 1.08 

 2.99 

 2.91 

 44.9 

 45.9 

 14.7 

 1.09 

 2.74 

 2.64 

 44.1 

 45.3 

 17.1 

 1.24 

$ 

525,482 

$ 

483,555 

$ 

434,259 

$ 

 516,339 

 472,496 

 423,073 

41,927 

 43,843 

 16,873,269 

 14,849,141 

 12,701,691 

 2,024,128 

 634,273 

 634,877 

 0.62 

 0.54 

 315,000 

 0.44 

 (604)

 0.08 

 (20)

 (18)

 (10)

 (30)

 30 

 (1)

 9%

 9 

 14 

 – 

 15 

(1)  See page 19 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.
(4) Financial information prepared under IFRS (2011 and 2012) and Canadian GAAP (2010) may not be directly comparable.

20

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Record net income available to common shareholders of $172.2 
million increased 15% ($22.7 million) over 2011 while diluted 
earnings per common share of $2.22 ($2.24 basic) was up 14% 
from $1.95 ($2.07 basic). Adjusted cash earnings per share, which 
is diluted earnings per share excluding the after-tax amortization 
of acquisition-related intangible assets and the non-tax deductible 
change in fair value of contingent consideration, was $2.30, up 
6%. Record total revenues (teb) of $525.5 million grew 9% ($41.9 
million) reflecting the combined benefit of very strong 14% ($1,660 
million) loan growth and a 14% ($9.8 million) increase in other 
income, partially offset by a 20 basis point reduction in net interest 
margin (teb) to 2.79%. Margin contraction in the year mainly 
resulted from lower yields on loans and securities, as well as a 
slightly higher average liquidity level, partially offset by reduced 
fixed term deposit costs and lower debt expense. Lower asset yields 
reflect the combined impact of the sustained very low interest 
rate environment and a flat interest rate curve, as well as ongoing 
competitive pressures. The positive trend in credit quality continued 
from 2011 and the provision for credit losses remained unchanged at 
19 basis points of average loans. 

The efficiency ratio (teb), which measures non-interest expenses 
as a percentage of total revenues (teb) (excluding the non-tax 
deductible change in fair value of contingent consideration), of 
44.8% improved 10 basis points from last year as the benefit of 
strong percentage growth in total revenues was largely offset by 
the combination of a 6% ($14.1 million) increase in non-interest 
expenses and the difference in the fair value adjustment for 
contingent consideration. 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 return on common shareholders’ equity of 15.0% was up 30 
basis points compared to 2011 while return on assets decreased 
one basis point to 1.08%. The increase in return on equity was 
attributed to a lower charge for the change in fair value of contingent 
consideration in the current year compared to 2011, largely offset 
by the impact of margin compression. Contingent consideration 
associated with the 2010 acquisition of National Leasing was settled 
in the third quarter of 2012 with the issuance of 2.3 million CWB 
common shares valued at $63.5 million. Total cash dividends paid to 
common shareholders of $0.62 per share increased 15% from $0.54 
per share paid in the prior year.

Total assets increased 14% to reach $16,873 million, driven by loan 
growth and a higher balance of liquid assets. Total branch-raised 
deposits increased 11% ($782 million) compared to the previous 
year, while the demand and notice component within branch-raised 
deposits was up 12% ($468 million). Strong growth in branch-raised 
deposits, including the demand and notice component, reflects the 
success of ongoing strategies to further enhance and diversify core 
funding sources. Total deposits grew 14% ($1,750 million) in the 
year to reach $14,145 million and kept pace with very strong loan 
growth. Total deposit growth also includes $700 million of fixed 
term notes issued in the debt capital markets and personal fixed 
rate term deposits raised through the deposit broker network. Total 
branch-raised deposits represented 57% of total deposits at October 
31, 2012, compared to 58% a year earlier. The demand and notice 
component comprised 32% of total deposits, unchanged from a year 
earlier. The ratio of total deposits to total loans at October 31, 2012 
was 1.01 times, down slightly from 1.02 times last year. 

The maintenance of solid capital levels is fundamental to CWB’s 
objectives to effectively manage risks and support strong growth. 
The Bank’s Basel II Tier 1 and total capital ratios at October 31, 2012 
of 10.6% (2011 – 11.1%) and 13.8% (2011 – 15.4%), respectively, 
remained well above both internal and regulatory minimums. 
Reported capital ratios for 2011 are based on the returns filed and 
have not been restated for the full transition impact of IFRS or a 
required change in the capital deduction related to CWB’s insurance 
subsidiary, both of which were effective in the first quarter of 
2012. The lower total capital adequacy ratio compared to a year 
earlier also reflects the March 2012 redemption of $125 million of 
subordinated debentures. The Basel II tangible common equity ratio, 
which represents the highest quality form of capital, was also solid at 
8.8%, up from 8.6% twelve months ago. Pro forma application of the 
all-in Basel III standards to the Bank’s financial position at October 
31, 2012 results in an estimated 8.1% common equity Tier 1 (CET1) 
ratio, 9.9% Tier 1 ratio and 13.1% total capital ratio. This compares 
to the minimum Basel III regulatory capital ratios, which include a 
250 basis point capital conservation buffer, of 7.0% CET1 effective 
January 1, 2013, and 8.5% Tier 1 and 10.5% total capital effective 
January 1, 2014.

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

21

MiniMuM PerforMance TargeTs and ouTlook

table 2 – PerForMance targets

2012

Minimum

2012

Targets

Performance

2013

Minimum

Targets

Net income available to common shareholders growth

Total revenue (teb) growth

Loan growth

10%

7

10

Provision for credit losses as a percentage of average loans

0.20 - 0.25

Efficiency ratio (teb)

Return on common shareholders’ equity

Return on assets

46

15

1.05

15%

9

14

0.19

44.8

15.0

1.08

8%

8

10

0.18 - 0.23

46

14

1.05

CWB met or exceeded all of its fiscal 2012 minimum 
performance targets led by very strong loan growth of 14%. 
Growth in net income available to common shareholders of 
15% reflected 9% growth in total revenues mainly resulting 
from loan growth and a $9.8 million lower charge for the non-
tax deductible change in fair value of contingent consideration. 
Excluding the change in fair value of contingent consideration 
for both years, net income available to common shareholders 
was up 8% as the benefit of very strong loan growth was 
partially offset by the impact of a 20 basis point reduction in 
net interest margin and a 6% increase in non-interest expenses. 
Loan growth was apparent across each of the Bank’s lending 
sectors with the exception of oil and gas production loans. 
Measured in dollars, the strongest loan growth by lending sector 
was in general commercial loans, closely followed by equipment 
financing. Overall credit quality improved compared to 201 1 and 
the provision for credit losses was slightly below the low end of 
the target range at 19 basis points of average loans. The return 
on common shareholders’ equity of 15.0% was on par with the 
target, while return on assets was slightly above the target at 
1.08%. The efficiency ratio (teb) of 44.8% compared favourably 
with the 2012 target of 46%. 

Fiscal 2013 minimum performance targets are based on 
expectations for modest economic growth in Canada and 
comparatively stronger performance within the Bank’s key 
western Canadian markets. Lending activity remains solid and 
double-digit loan growth is expected to be maintained despite 
the impacts of competitive factors and ongoing global economic 
uncertainties. Overall credit quality is expected to remain sound 
and the provision for credit losses is targeted between 18 and 
23 basis points of average loans. The Bank will maintain its 

focus on secured loans that offer a fair and profitable return in 
an environment where net interest margin pressure is expected 
to persist as a result of a very low interest rate environment, a 
flat interest rate curve and increased competitive influences in 
certain sectors. The foregoing circumstances will continue to 
constrain growth in total revenues and earnings compared to 
what would be expected in a more normal historical interest 
rate environment. Targeted growth of 8% for both total revenues 
(teb) and net income available to common shareholders 
reflects confidence in CWB’s proven business model and overall 
strategic direction, but also considers the impact of expectations 
for a lower net interest margin compared to 2012. Minimum 
targets for return on common shareholders’ equity and return 
on assets have been established at 14% and 1.05%, 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 2013 efficiency ratio (teb) 
is expected to remain at 46% or less.

The ongoing development of CWB Group’s core businesses 
will remain a key priority to achieve continued strong growth. 
Potential acquisitions that are both strategic and accretive for 
CWB shareholders will also be evaluated very closely. With its 
strong capital position under the more conservative Standardized 
Approach for calculating risk-weighted assets, CWB is 
positioned to support continued growth and manage unforeseen 
challenges. Management will maintain its focus on creating 
value and growth for shareholders over the long term. Despite 
challenges arising from the interest rate environment and related 
pressures on net interest margin, the current overall outlook for 
2013 and beyond is positive. 

22

CWB Group 2012 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 debt. Net interest margin is net interest income 
as a percentage of average total assets.

highlights of 2012

•	 Net interest income (teb) increased 8% to a record $443.6 

million based on 15% growth in average total interest 
earning assets.

•	 Net interest margin (teb) of 2.79%, down 20 basis points 
compared to 201 1 reflecting the very low interest rate 
environment, a flat interest rate curve and competitive factors. 

table 3 – net interest incoMe (teb)(1) 
($ ThOUSANDS)

2012 

2011 

average

balance

mix

interest

interest

rate

Average

Interest 

Balance   

Mix

Interest   

Rate

assets

Cash, securities 

and deposits with

regulated financial 

institutions

$  2,227,457 

14% $ 

53,849 

2.42% $  1,902,370 

14% $ 

58,382 

3.07%

Securities purchased under 

resale agreements

 124,935 

 1 

 1,231 

0.99 

 94,402 

Loans

Residential mortgages

 3,233,082 

Other loans

 9,973,138 

 13,206,220

Total interest bearing assets

 15,558,612 

 319,493 

 20 

 63 

 83

 98 

 2 

 131,105 

 555,429 

 686,534

 741,614 

 – 

4.06 

5.57 

 5.20

4.77 

0.00 

 2,794,172 

 8,675,784 

 11,469,956

 13,466,728 

 310,389 

 1 

 20 

 63 

 83

 98 

 2 

 916 

0.97 

 119,800 

 505,248 

 625,048

 684,346 

 – 

4.29 

5.82 

5.45

5.08 

0.00 

Other assets

total assets

liabilities

Deposits

Demand

Notice

Fixed term

Other liabilities

Debt

$ 15,878,105 

100% $ 

741,614 

4.67% $  13,777,117 

100% $  684,346 

4.97%

$ 

614,951 

4% $ 

 – 

0.00% $  569,709 

4% $ 

 – 

0.00%

 3,704,059 

 8,991,089 

 13,310,099 

 474,329 

 632,132 

 23 

 57 

 84 

 3 

 4 

 8 

 1 

 42,156 

 227,555 

 269,711 

 61 

 28,270 

 – 

 – 

1.14 

2.53 

2.03 

0.01 

4.47 

0.00 

0.00 

 3,286,379 

 7,446,424 

 11,302,512 

 477,616 

 666,660 

 1,225,104 

 105,225 

 24 

 54 

 82 

 3 

 5 

 9 

 1 

 35,668 

 202,935 

 238,603 

 98 

 34,193 

 – 

 – 

1.09 

2.73 

2.11 

0.02 

5.13 

0.00 

0.00 

Shareholders’ equity

 1,356,306 

Non-controlling interests

 105,239 

total liabilities and equity $ 15,878,105 

100% $  298,042 

1.88% $  13,777,117 

100% $  272,894 

1.98%

total assets/ 
net interest income

$ 15,878,105 

$  443,572 

2.79%

$  13,777,117 

$  411,452 

2.99%

(1)  See page 19 for a discussion of teb and other non-GAAP measures.

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

23

 
  
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
Net interest income (teb) increased 8% ($32.1 million) for the year 
to reach a record $443.6 million reflecting 15% ($2,101 million) 
growth in average interest earning assets, partially offset by the 
impact of a significant 20 basis point reduction in net interest margin 
(teb) to 2.79%. Growth in average interest earning assets resulted 
from a combination of very strong 15% ($1,736 million) growth 
in total average loans and an 18% ($356 million) increase in total 
average cash, securities, deposits with regulated financial institutions 
and securities purchased under resale agreements. The compressed 
net interest margin mainly resulted from the combined impact of 
the ongoing very low interest rate environment, a flat interest rate 
curve and competitive factors, and is reflected in a 25 basis point 
lower average yield on loans, partially offset by an eight basis point 

reduction in total average deposit costs and reduced debt expense. 
The yield on average cash, securities and deposits with regulated 
financial institutions was down 65 basis points, partially reflecting 
the Bank’s strategy to reposition a significant portion of its previous 
investments in the preferred shares of other financial institutions, 
which, under Basel III, require a deduction from regulatory capital for 
amounts over a certain threshold. 

In general, increases in the prime interest rate positively impact 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% for the year and 
has remained unchanged since the Bank of Canada last increased 
rates in September of 2010. 

ouTlook for neT inTeresT incoMe

Loan growth will continue to have a positive influence on net 
interest income, but the current very low interest rate environment, 
the flat shape of the interest rate curve and competitive factors 
will likely result in a lower net interest margin compared to 2012. 
The current interest rate environment diminishes margin due to 
the adverse impact as it relates to the benefit of the Bank’s low 
and no-cost deposits, as well as deposits that are less interest 
sensitive. In a more normal historical 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 would provide a more meaningful positive 

differential between the incremental price on loans and the cost 
of matched funding based on the duration of certain portfolios. 
An increased level of competition, particularly in certain business 
areas, also results in lower overall loan pricing. The average liquidity 
level is expected to remain relatively consistent with 2012. Lower 
liquidity generally enhances margins due to the decreased level of 
comparatively lower yielding assets. In the absence of increases 
in the prime lending interest rate and/or a significant steepening 
of the interest rate curve, pressures on net interest margin will 
continue. Based on the current view, the Bank’s financial targets for 
2013 assume no increases in the prime lending interest rate. 

other income

highlights of 2012

•	 Other income increased 14% as a lower charge for contingent 
consideration fair value changes and the combined growth in 
net gains on securities and credit-related fee income more than 
offset a decline in the “other” component of other income and a 
reduction in net insurance revenues resulting from the impact on 
claims from severe storm activity in Alberta. 

•	 Other income represented 16% of total revenues (teb), 

unchanged from 201 1.

24

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

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 securities, net

Retail services

Foreign exchange

Contingent consideration fair value change

Other (1)

total other income

2012 

2011 

$

Change from 2011

$ 

123,204 

$ 

117,632 

$ 

 1,855 

 (83,167)

 (24,539)

 17,353 

 19,705 

 19,065 

12,449 

 9,227 

 3,255 

 (2,489)

 3,345 

 1,869 

 (74,734)

 (24,517)

 20,250 

 18,307 

 19,050 

 7,283 

 9,486 

 3,488 

 (12,305)

 6,544 

$ 

81,910 

$ 

72,103 

$ 

5,572 

 (14)

 (8,433)

 (22)

 (2,897)

 1,398 

 15 

 5,166 

 (259)

 (233)

 9,816 

 (3,199)

9,807 

%

 5%

 (1)

 11 

 – 

 (14)

 8 

 – 

 71 

 (3)

 (7)

 (80)

 (49)

 14%

(1)  Includes gains on loan portfolio sales, 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.

Other income of $81.9 million was up 14% ($9.8 million) reflecting 
a $9.8 million lower charge for contingent consideration fair value 
changes related to the 2010 acquisition of National Leasing. 
Contingent consideration was eliminated effective in the third 
quarter of 2012 upon the settlement of a contingent liability related 
to the 2010 acquisition of National Leasing. Net gains on securities 
remained high and were up $5.2 million over 2011 reflecting 
favourable market opportunities, the strategic repositioning of certain 
investments in preferred shares, common equities and government 
securities and the 2011 write-down of certain impaired available-for-
sale securities to their respective fair market values. Management’s 
decision to sell certain securities issued by financial institutions 
reflects forthcoming changes under the new Basel III regulatory 
capital framework which requires a deduction from regulatory capital 
of amounts over a certain threshold for this type of investment. 
Growth in credit-related fee income of 8% ($1.4 million) was driven 
by strong lending activity. 

ouTlook for oTher incoMe

A reduction of $3.2 million in the “other” component of other income 
resulted from the expiry of a lease administration contract in early 
fiscal 2012 and the absence of fair value adjustments for interest rate 
swaps previously held within National Leasing. The sale of insured 
residential mortgage portfolios added approximately $2 million to 
the “other” category of other income in both years. Net insurance 
revenues were down $2.9 million as the positive impact of growth 
in net earned premiums was more than offset by increased claims 
expense related to severe storm activity in Alberta. Trust and wealth 
management services fees remained relatively unchanged while retail 
services and foreign exchange income were down 3% ($0.3 million) 
and 7% (0.2 million), respectively. 

Other income as a percentage of total revenues (net interest income 
and other income) was 16%, unchanged compared to 201 1. 

Solid growth is expected across most categories of other income 
reflecting CWB’s continued focus on enhancing transactional 
services and increasing other sources of fee-based income. The 
generation of more transactional business with both new and 
existing clients, an enhanced market presence, double-digit loan 
growth and expanded product offerings are key factors contributing 
to expected growth in banking-related services. While net insurance 
revenues should increase meaningfully with the benefit of a return 
to more normal claims experience and continued policy growth, 
increased volatility in the claims ratio could result from severe 
weather-related events, as was the case in 2012. Contingent 
consideration fair value changes, which reduced other income by 
$2.5 million in 2012, will not be applicable going forward. While 
net gains on securities are expected to remain an ongoing source 
of revenue, the future level of contributions from this source 

is expected to be much lower compared to 2012. Generating 
additional other income through whole loan sales of residential 
mortgage portfolios remains an option, but near-term growth in the 
“other” category of other income is likely to be constrained reflecting 
the expiry of a lease administration contract in the previous year. 
CWT, including Optimum Mortgage, and Valiant Trust each expect 
solid growth in 2013 resulting from increased market share and 
ongoing business development in core western markets and select 
areas in Ontario. Revenue and earnings contributions from National 
Leasing should also increase with expected strong business growth. 
Adroit has had good success introducing its services to many CWB 
banking clients and this positive trend is expected to continue. 
CWB maintains its long-term objective to grow non-interest 
revenues as a percentage of total revenues and will continue to 
develop, or acquire, complementary fee-based businesses.

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

25

non-interest expenses and efficiency

highlights of 2012

•	 The efficiency ratio (teb) of 44.8% represented a 10 basis point improvement compared to 201 1 as growth in total revenues (teb) more 

than offset a 6% increase in non-interest expenses.

table 5 – non-interest exPenses anD eFFiciency ratio 
($ ThOUSANDS)

2012

2011

$

Change from 2011

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

Travel

Regulatory costs

Community investment

Communications

General insurance

Capital and business taxes

Other

$ 

127,835 

$ 

118,323 

$ 

 26,009 

 153,844 

 15,738 

 5,212 

 3,115 

 24,065 

 8,108 

 7,329 

 15,437 

 6,379 

 6,746 

 5,160 

 3,253 

 2,630 

 2,493 

 2,131 

 2,095 

 1,770 

 969 

 676 

 8,918 

 43,220 

 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 

 2,375 

 2,439 

 1,140 

 1,631 

 970 

 1,588 

 7,686 

 43,848 

total non-interest expenses

$ 

236,566 

$ 

222,451 

$ 

efficiency ratio (teb) (1)(2)

44.8%

44.9%

9,512 

 2,467 

 11,979 

 809 

 476 

 140 

 1,425 

 499 

 840 

 1,339 

 (600)

 (227)

 (840)

 31 

 (215)

 118 

 (308)

 955 

 139 

 (1)

 (912)

 1,232 

 (628)

14,115 

%

 8%

 10

 8

 5

 10

 5 

 6 

 7 

 13 

 9 

 (9)

 (3)

 (14)

 1 

 (8)

 5 

 (13)

 84 

 9 

 –

 (57)

 16 

 (1)

 6%

(10)bp (3)

(1)  Non-interest expenses as a percentage of total revenues (net interest income (teb) plus other income) excluding the non-tax deductible change in fair value of contingent consideration.  

See page 19 for a discussion of non-GAAP measures.

(2)  A decrease in this ratio reflects improved efficiency, while an increase reflects deterioration.
(3)  bp – basis points.

26

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

 
 
 
 
 
 
Total non-interest expenses of $236.6 million were up 6% ($14.1 
million) largely reflecting an 8% ($12.0 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% (89 FTEs) from October 
31, 201 1 to meet additional staffing requirements for new and/or 
expanded banking branches, corporate support services and other 
business expansion. Premises and equipment expenses, including 
depreciation, increased 8% ($2.8 million) and reflected the impact 
of a new full-service branch opened near the end of 2011 and the 
ongoing development and expansion of other premises. Investment 
in technology infrastructure, such as the Bank’s loan origination 
system and corporate office data centre implemented in 2011, 
also contributed to the increase in non-interest expenses. Ongoing 

Figure 1 – nuMber oF Full-tiMe equivalent staFF 

investment in premises and technology infrastructure are necessary 
to position the Bank for future growth. These investments are 
expected to provide considerable efficiencies in the future at both 
the branch and corporate office level; this includes improving the 
turnaround time of credit approvals and affording lenders more 
time to assist clients. Certain technology investment, including 
the loan origination system and the future implementation of a 
new core banking system, will also improve data, portfolio and 
client relationship management capabilities. General non-interest 
expenses were down 1% ($0.6 million) as the benefit of lower capital 
and business taxes, amortization of intangibles, professional fees 
and services, and regulatory costs more than offset the impact of 
increases in other areas, including community investment. 

2012

2011

2010

2009

2008

+5%

+5%

+28%

+4%

1,885

1,796

1,716 (1)

1,339

1,284

(1)  The significant increase in the number of full-time equivalent staff in 2010 reflects the acquisition of National Leasing.

The efficiency ratio (teb), which measures non-interest expenses 
as a percentage of total revenues (teb), excluding the non-tax 
deductible change in fair value of contingent consideration, was 
44.8%, compared to 44.9% last year, as the benefit of core revenue 

growth offset the impact of higher non-interest expenses. Non-
interest expenses as a percentage of average assets were 1.5%, down 
slightly from 1.6% in 2011.

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. The investment in these areas is aligned 
with the Bank’s commitment to maximize long-term shareholder 
value and is expected to provide material benefits in future 
periods. The major program to implement a new core banking 
system is progressing as planned. Preliminary timelines anticipate 
implementation of the new core banking system in 2015 with an 
initial estimated capital budget of $50 million. Optimum Mortgage 
successfully implemented a new loan origination system in 2012 
which is expected to enhance client service, increase capacity 
and improve efficiencies. CWT also successfully completed a 
major system conversion in 2012 that is expected to create similar 

benefits and efficiencies within that business. Compliance with an 
increasing level of regulatory rules and oversight for all Canadian 
banks requires the investment of both time and resources, which 
further contributes to higher non-interest expenses. 

Ongoing expansion plans include moving CWB’s flagship main 
branch in Edmonton to a new, much larger location, the opening of 
new and expanded premises in Regina and St. Albert, and National 
Leasing’s recent expansion in Quebec. Other potential new branch 
locations are under consideration while upgrades and expansion of 
existing branch infrastructure continues. 

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 likely limit the potential for 
improvement in the efficiency ratio compared to 2012. Overall, 
CWB expects to achieve an efficiency ratio (teb) of 46% or better 
in fiscal 2013.

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

27

 
income and capital taxes
The effective income tax rate (teb) was 26.3%, down 190 basis 
points from 201 1, while the tax rate before the teb adjustment was 
23.6%, or 120 basis points lower. The lower tax rate compared to 
last year reflects the 150 basis point reduction in the federal income 
tax rate effective on each of January 1, 2011 and January 1, 2012, but 
was also impacted by the non-tax deductible change in fair value 
of contingent consideration. Excluding the impact of contingent 
consideration in both years, the effective tax rate (teb) was 26.0%, 
down 90 basis points from 2011. 

Deferred 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 Bank’s deferred income tax assets and liabilities relate primarily 
to the collective allowance for credit losses and intangible assets, 

ouTlook for incoMe and caPiTal Taxes

respectively. Deferred 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 deferred income 
taxes related to a change in tax rates are recognized as income in the 
period of the tax rate change.

Capital losses of $11.1 million (2011 – $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 tax applicable to CWB has been eliminated in recent years 
in both BC and Manitoba, while Alberta has not had a capital tax 
for several years. CWB remains subject to provincial capital tax 
in Saskatchewan. Capital taxes in 2012 totaled $0.5 million and 
represented a $0.9 million decline from 2011. 

CWB’s expected income tax rate (teb) for fiscal 2013 is 
approximately 26.5%, or 23.8% before the teb adjustment. 
Saskatchewan provincial capital taxes will likely increase with the 
ongoing retention of earnings and any potential impact from the 

issuance of new capital, if material. There is also the possibility that 
a change in the provincial political landscape in BC could result in a 
reinstatement of capital tax on financial institutions in that province. 

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 2012, fair value changes for derivative instruments 
designated as cash flow hedges. The increase in comprehensive 
income was driven by 13% ($22.7 million) higher net income and 

$9.6 million of unrealized gains, net of tax, on available-for-sale 
securities in 2012 compared to $11.7 million of unrealized losses in 
2011. While the combined dollar investment in preferred shares and 
common equities is relatively small in relation to total liquid assets, it 
increases the potential for comparatively larger fluctuations in OCI.

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

2012

2011 Change from 2011

$ 

194,457  $ 

171,721 

$ 

22,736 

 9,580 

 (9,129)

 451 

 1,430 

 (483)

 947 

 1,398 

 (11,710)

 (5,133)

 (16,843)

 – 

 – 

 – 

 (16,843)

 21,290

 (3,996)

 17,294

 1,430

 (483)

 947

 18,241

40,977

total comprehensive income

$ 

195,855  $ 

154,878 

$ 

28

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

 
 
 
  
cash and securities
Cash, securities and securities purchased under resale agreements 
totaled $2,573 million at October 31, 2012, compared to $2,238 
million one year ago. Total net unrealized gains before tax recorded 
on the balance sheet at October 31, 2012 were $10.8 million, 
compared to $10.0 million last year. The change in net unrealized 
gains reflects fluctuations in the market value of all securities, as 
well as net gains recognized through the income statement. The 
combined balance of securities issued or guaranteed by governments 
and other debt securities included net unrealized gains of $1.7 million 
at year end, compared to $0.7 million at October 31, 201 1. The 
portfolio of preferred shares included net unrealized gains of $7.0 
million, down from $9.3 million a year earlier. The common equities 
portfolio reflected net unrealized gains of $2.1 million, compared to 
nil at October 31, 2011. 

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 equity markets also leads to fluctuations in value, particularly for 
common shares. 

loans.

highlights of 2012

In the past four 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  
securities in 2012 of $12.4 million remained high and were $5.2 
million above the prior year. Excluding the impact of $3.1 million 
of write-downs in the prior year, net gains on securities in 2012 
were $2.1 million higher than in 2011. The majority of net gains on 
securities in 2012 were attributed to the sale of preferred shares of 
other financial institutions in anticipation of the new Basel III capital 
framework effective January 1, 2013, although the sale of certain 
government securities and common equities also contributed to 
the net result. The specific change under Basel III that prompted 
the decision to reposition a portion of certain preferred shares is a 
required deduction from regulatory capital for investments in other 
financial institutions over a certain threshold. 

CWB has no direct investment in any non-Canadian sovereign debt 
or other securities issued outside of Canada or the United States. 

See Table 24 – 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 2013 
is included in the Liquidity Management discussion of this MD&A.

•	 Loan growth of 14% largely driven by very strong performance 
in general commercial loans, equipment financing and leasing, 
personal loans and mortgages, and corporate loans.

•	 Double-digit loan growth achieved in 22 of the past 23 years 

(the exception being 2009 when loan growth was 7%).

table 7 – outstanDing loans by PortFolio 
($ MILLIONS)

General commercial loans

Commercial mortgages

Equipment financing and leasing

Personal loans and mortgages

Real estate project loans

Corporate loans

Oil and gas production loans

total outstanding loans

Change from 2011

2012 

$ 

3,179 

$ 

 2,788 

 2,498 

 2,292 

 2,024 

 912 

 342 

$ 

2011 

2,598 

 2,691 

 2,097 

 2,020 

 1,888 

 709 

 362 

$ 

14,035 

$ 

12,365 

$ 

$

581 

 97 

 401 

 272 

 136 

 203 

 (20)

1,670 

%

 22%

 4

 19

 13 

 7 

 29 

 (6)

 14%

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

29

 
 
Total loans before the allowance for credit losses increased 14% 
($1,670 million) to reach $14,035 million at year end. Measured in 
dollar terms and by loan type as shown in Table 7, growth in general 
commercial loans of 22% ($581 million) represented the strongest 
source of loan growth, followed by 19% ($401 million) growth 
in equipment financing and leasing. Based on industry sector as 
shown in Table 8, general commercial loans include categories such 
as manufacturing, finance and insurance, and wholesale and retail 
trade. Equipment financing and leasing includes the Bank’s heavy 
equipment financing business and the small- and mid-ticket leasing 
business of National Leasing. Corporate loans, which represent 
a diversified portfolio that is centrally sourced and administered 
through a designated lending group located in Edmonton, had the 
best percentage growth at 29% ($203 million). Corporate 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 sourced in 
branches are primarily real estate project loans, and oil and gas 
production loans, and are included under the corresponding 
classifications in Table 7. Real estate project loans increased 7% 
($136 million) as the benefit of solid activity in both residential and 
commercial construction was partially offset by an increased level 
of paybacks reflecting the relatively short duration of this portfolio. 
Commercial mortgages, an area where loan pricing continued to 
be highly competitive, grew 4% ($97 million). Personal loans and 

Figure 2 – outstanDing loans by PortFolio 
(OCTOBER 31, 2011 IN BRACkETS)

mortgages, which include lending activity in both CWB branches and 
the Bank’s broker-sourced residential mortgage business, Optimum 
Mortgage, showed strong performance with 13% ($272 million) 
growth. The balance of oil and gas production loans, which represent 
a relatively small percentage of the total portfolio, was down 
6% ($20 million) mainly resulting from the impact of sustained 
downward pressure on natural gas prices. 

Total loans of $1,090 million in the broker-sourced residential 
mortgage business, Optimum Mortgage, represented growth of 
16% ($153 million). Adjusting for a $50 million residential mortgage 
portfolio sold during the year, total loan growth was 22%. Growth 
was mainly driven by alternative mortgages secured via conventional 
residential first mortgages carrying a weighted average loan-to-value 
ratio at initiation of approximately 71%. The book value of alternative 
mortgages represented approximately 70% 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 mix of the portfolio (see Figure 2) shifted slightly during 
the year as very strong growth in general commercial loans and 
equipment financing and leasing led to decreases in the proportion 
of commercial mortgages, real estate project loans and oil and gas 
production loans. Based on the location of security (see Figure 3), 
Alberta and BC respectively represented 45% and 33% of total loans 
at year, relatively unchanged from 2011. 

General Commercial 
Loans 23%
(21%)

Commercial 
Mortgages 20%
(22%)

Equipment Financing
and Leasing 18%
(16%)

Personal Loans
and Mortgages 17%
(17%)

Real Estate 
Project Loans 14%
(15%)

Corporate 
Loans 6%
(6%)

Oil and Gas
Production Loans 2%
(3%)

30

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

ouTlook for loans

While strong competition from domestic banks and other financial 
services firms is expected to persist, the current overall outlook for 
generating new business opportunities continues to be positive. 
The Bank expects to maintain double-digit loan growth and has set 
its fiscal 2013 minimum loan growth target at 10%. 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 
2013 despite impacts from ongoing uncertainties. The Bank’s key 
markets in Western Canada are expected to continue to perform 
well relative to the rest of Canada largely reflecting ongoing 
capital investment and in-migration related to a favourable long-
term outlook for commodities. In Alberta, the forecast for 2013 
is supported by significant long-term capital investment in the oil 
sands, as well as a relatively positive outlook for activity related to 
conventional oil production. Activity related to the resource sector 
in BC, including forestry, has also remained solid due to current 
favourable resource prices, positive trends in the United States 
(U.S.) housing sector and ongoing export opportunities to Pacific 
Rim countries, including China. 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. 

Affordability in most Canadian residential real estate markets 
remains within historical ranges largely reflecting very low interest 
rates. however, the combination of historically high price levels, 
relatively high levels of Canadian consumer debt and the potential 
for increasing interest rates in the future could slow construction 
and other related lending activity, particularly in areas of Vancouver 
and Toronto. Very low natural gas prices have adversely impacted 
the financial flexibility and cash flows of many exploration and 
production companies, but the Bank’s direct exposure to this sector 
remains low. While fallout from sustained downward pressure 
on natural gas prices is not expected to materially impact overall 
portfolio quality, related growth opportunities will continue to be 
constrained.

Uncertainty about the future impact of recently confirmed 
regulatory changes related to more stringent residential mortgage 
underwriting criteria has resulted in an improved competitive 
environment for the Bank’s alternative residential mortgage 
business in the short term, but the long-term impacts of these 
changes are less certain. Notwithstanding less competition for 
alternative mortgages, the overall level of demand could moderate 
as a result of the new regulations. 

Potential risks that would have a material adverse impact on the 
Bank’s economic expectations and forecasts include a global 
economic recession spurred by unfavourable developments in  
the euro zone, the strength of economic recovery in the U.S.,  
a meaningful slowdown in China’s economic growth, or a significant 
and sustained deterioration in Canadian residential real estate 
prices.

diVersification of Portfolio 
Total advances based on location of security

Figure 3 – geograPhical Distribution oF loans (1) 
(OCTOBER 31, 2011 IN BRACkETS)

Alberta 45%
(46%)

British Columbia 
33% (33%)

Ontario
10% (10%)

Saskatchewan
6% (6%)

Manitoba
3% (3%)

Other
3% (2%)

(1)   Includes letters of credit.

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

31

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)

Transportation and storage

hotel/motel

health and social services

Finance and insurance

Oil and gas production

Manufacturing

Retail trade

Oil and gas service

Wholesale trade

Other services

Logging/forestry

All other

total

2012

23%

 18 

 15 

2011

 22%

 19

 15

6 

5 

 5 

 5 

 3 

 3 

 3 

 3 

 2 

 2 

 2 

 5 

 5

6

 5

 5

 3 

 3

 3 

 2 

 2 

 2 

 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 business and personal loans. 
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. 

ouTlook  for diversificaTion of PorTfolio 

While positive growth is expected to continue across all lending 
sectors, the proportion of total loans comprised of commercial 
mortgages and real estate project loans could decrease slightly in 
2013 reflecting expectations for comparatively faster net growth in 
other areas such as general commercial loans, equipment financing 
and leasing, and personal loans and mortgages. Commercial 
mortgages are currently subject to a high level of pricing 
competition and the Bank’s focus will be to maintain this portfolio 
based on client relationships and adequate returns. Expectations 

for comparatively slower growth in real estate project loans reflects 
the combined impact of this portfolio’s relatively short duration and 
forecasted moderation in Canadian residential real estate activity, 
particularly in certain geographical areas. 

While stronger economic activity in Alberta and the success of 
strategic initiatives to increase the Bank’s lending exposure in 
Ontario could lead to comparatively faster growth in these areas, 
portfolio diversification by geography will likely remain relatively 
consistent with October 31, 2012.

32

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

 
credit Quality

highlights of 2012

•	 Continued strong quality and a low level of write-offs in relation 

•	 A dollar provision for credit losses of $25.1 million represented 

to total loans.

•	 Ten consecutive quarterly reductions in the dollar level of gross 
impaired loans, which decreased 31% ($30.4 million) from the 
prior year. Gross impaired loans measured as a percentage of 
total loans represented 48 basis points, compared to 79 basis 
points one year ago.

imPaired loans
As shown in Table 9, gross impaired loans totaled $66.8 million 
and represented 0.48% of outstanding loans, compared to $97.3 
million, or 0.79%, of total loans last year. The ten largest accounts 
classified as impaired, measured by dollars outstanding, represented 
approximately 52% of total gross impaired loans at year end, up from 
48% a year earlier. New formations of impaired loans totaled $80.7 

table 9 – change in gross iMPaireD loans 
($ ThOUSANDS)

19 basis points of average loans and compared favourably to the 
2012 target range of 20 to 25 basis points.

million, compared to $94.6 million last year. The dollar level of gross 
impaired loans goes up and down 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 2011

Gross impaired loans, beginning of period

$ 

97,258 

$ 

143,700 

$ 

(46,442)

2012 

2011 

$

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

 80,734 

 94,601 

 (13,867)

$ 

$ 

 (93,440)

 (17,712)

66,840 

35,034 

 125 

 111 

$ 

$ 

 (107,656)

 (33,387)

 14,216 

 15,675 

97,258 

$ 

(30,418)

46,884 

$ 

(11,850)

 153 

 137 

 (28)

 (26)

%

 (32)

 (15)

 (13)

 (47)

 (31)

 (25)

 (18)

 (19)

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

 0.48% 

 0.79% 

(31)bp (4)

(1)  Gross impaired loans includes foreclosed assets held for sale with a carrying value of $9,785 (2011 – $3,241). The Bank pursues timely realization on foreclosed assets and does not use the 

assets for its own operations.

(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.

The lower balance of gross impaired loans reflects the success of 
ongoing loan realization efforts and work-out programs, as well as 
relatively stable economic conditions in the Bank’s core geographic 
markets. Actual credit losses experienced over the past two years in 
relation to the level of gross impaired loans in the same time period 
demonstrates the benefits of CWB’s secured lending practices and 
disciplined underwriting. 

Current estimates of expected write-offs for existing loans classified 
as impaired are reflected in the specific provisions for credit losses, 
which totaled $14.4 million at year end compared to $10.7 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 each impaired 
account. 

The 2012 dollar provision for credit losses of $25.1 million increased 
15% ($3.3 million) over the previous year. The provision measured 
as a percentage of average loans was unchanged from 2011 at 19 
basis points as the percentage growth in total average loans and the 
dollar provision was relatively consistent. As at October 31, 2012, 
the collective allowance for credit losses exceeded the balance of 
impaired loans, net of specific allowances. The allowance for credit 
losses as a percentage of gross impaired loans (coverage ratio) was 
122%, up from 74% in 2011. 

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

33

 
 
 
 
Figure 4 – net iMPaireD loans as a Percentage oF net loans outstanDing

0.21%

0.19%

0.62%

0.68%

-0.11%

2012

2011

2010

2009

2008

2007

2006

2005

2004

2003

-0.57%

-0.75%

-0.68%

-0.36%

-0.36%

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 quarterly, or more 

frequent, reviews of each loan and its realization plan.  
A report of impaired loans is also reviewed quarterly by the Loans 
Committee of the Board of Directors. 

ouTlook  for iMPaired loans

Ongoing disciplined underwriting practices and expectations 
for a relatively consistent level of economic activity in Western 
Canada compared to 2012 underpin management’s view that 
overall credit quality will remain sound. The level of gross impaired 
loans continued to show a positive trend throughout 2012, but will 
likely increase from the current very low level reflecting normal 

fluctuations of the credit cycle. Overall lending exposures will 
continue to be closely monitored and actual losses are expected 
to remain within CWB’s historical range of acceptable levels. 
Management remains confident in the strength, diversity and 
underwriting structure of the overall loan portfolio. 

34

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

 
allowance for credit losses

Table 10 shows the year-over-year change in the allowance for credit losses split between specific provisions by category of impaired loans  
and the collective allowance for credit risk. 

table 10 – allowance For creDit losses 
($ ThOUSANDS)

2012

Opening

Balance

Provision

for Credit

Write-Offs,

net of

Losses

Recoveries (1)

$ 

1,369 

$ 

 2,516 

 5,592 

 1,173 

10,650 

 61,330 

$ 

71,980 

$ 

11,183 

 3,027 

 3,828 

 1,055 

 19,093 

 6,014 

25,107 

$ 

(4,807)

$ 

(2,938)

(5,850)

 (1,769)

 (15,364)

 – 

$  (15,364)

$ 

2012

ending

balance

7,745

 2,605

 3,570

 459

 14,379

 67,344

81,723

•	 historical loss experience in portfolios that display similar credit 

risk characteristics;

•	 the estimated period of time between when the impairment 

occurs and when the loss is identified; and,

•	 management’s judgment as to whether current economic and 

credit conditions are such that the actual level of inherent losses 
at the balance sheet date is likely to be greater or less than that 
suggested by historical experience. 

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.

specific allowance

Commercial

Real estate

Equipment financing
Consumer and personal

collective allowance

total

(1)  Recoveries in 2012 totaled $2,348 (2011 – $2,061).

The allowance for credit losses is maintained to absorb both 
identified and unidentified losses in the loan portfolio, and, at 
October 31, 2012, consisted of $14.4 million of specific allowances 
and $67.3 million in the collective allowance for credit losses 
(previously referred to as the “general allowance for credit losses” 
under Canadian GAAP). The specific allowance includes 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 collective allowance for credit risk 
includes allowances for losses inherent in the portfolio that are not 
presently identifiable on an account-by-account basis. Policies and 
methodology governing the management of the collective allowance 
are in place.

An assessment of the adequacy of the collective allowance for credit 
losses is conducted quarterly in consideration of:

•	 historical trends in loss experience during economic cycles;

•	 the current portfolio profile; 

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 collective 
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 and 
actual historical loss experience, the existing level of the collective 
allowance is considered sufficient to mitigate losses inherent in the 
portfolio that are not presently identifiable.

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

35

 
 
 
ProVision for credit losses
The provision for credit losses represented 19 basis points of average 
loans in 2012 (see Table 11), unchanged from the previous year. Net 
new specific provisions represented 14 basis points of average loans, 
compared to 20 basis points in 2011. 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 

table 11 – Provision For creDit losses 
($ ThOUSANDS)

may impact Western Canada and the sectors in which the Bank’s 
customers operate are continually analyzed. The 2010 increase in the 
provision for credit losses as a percentage of average loans compared 
to prior years, as shown in Table 11, was attributed to the acquisition 
of National Leasing and the relatively higher rate of losses that is 
typical in the small- and mid-market leasing business. 

Provision for credit losses (1)

Net new specific provisions (net of recoveries) (2)

IFRS

2012

 0.19%

 0.14

Canadian GAAP

2011

 0.19% 

 0.20

2010

 0.21% 

 0.27

2009

 0.15% 

 0.14

2008

 0.15%

 0.09

Collective allowance

Coverage ratio (3)

$ 

67,344 

$ 

61,330 

$ 

59,603 

$ 

61,153 

$ 

60,527

 122%

74%  

 55% 

 55% 

 82%

(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 2013 is expected to be 18 to 23 
basis points of average loans, slightly lower than the target range 
established for 2012 of 20 to 25 basis points of average loans. The 
expected provision reflects the Bank’s current assessment based 
on assumptions about the economic outlook, the overall quality of 

the portfolio and its underlying security, and the adequacy of the 
collective allowance for credit losses. The assessment process is 
continuous and the Bank’s updated expectations are communicated 
no less than quarterly.

deposits

highlights of 2012

•	 Branch and trust generated demand and notice deposits 

•	 Branch and trust generated deposits were 57% of total deposits, 

increased 12%.

down slightly from 58% a year earlier. 

•	 Personal deposits, which include those raised through the 

broker deposit network, increased 7% (excluding broker-raised 
deposits, personal deposits were up 19%).

•	 Business and government deposits increased 1 1%. 

•	 Maintained a credit rating on long-term deposits and senior debt 
from DBRS Limited (DBRS) of A (low) with a stable outlook. 

•	 Diversified funding sources with the issuance of $700 million of 
senior deposit notes in the debt capital markets to a broad range 
of institutional investors.

36

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

 
 
table 12 – DePosits 
($ ThOUSANDS)

Personal

Business and government

Capital markets

Total Deposits

% of Total

Personal

Business and government

Capital markets

Total Deposits

% of Total

demand

notice

term

2012

total

$ 

31,980 

$  2,382,262 

$  6,545,876 

$  8,960,118 

 653,213 

 1,391,349 

 – 

 – 

 2,190,157 

 950,000 

 4,234,719 

 950,000 

$ 

685,193 

$ 

3,773,611 

$  9,686,033 

$  14,144,837 

5%

27%

68%

100%

Demand

Notice

Term

2011

Total

$ 

30,440 

$  2,086,231 

$  6,229,158 

$  8,345,829 

 552,827 

 1,321,359 

 – 

 – 

 1,924,674 

 250,000 

 3,798,860 

 250,000 

$ 

583,267 

$  3,407,590 

$  8,403,832 

$  12,394,689 

5%

27%

68%

100%

% of

total

 63%

 30 

 7 

 100%

% of

Total

 67%

 31 

 2 

 100%

Total deposits at year end of $14,145 million increased 14% ($1,750 
million) over 2011 reflecting $700 million of additional senior notes 
issued in the debt capital markets, 7% ($614 million) growth in 
personal deposits, which include those issued through the deposit 
broker network, and 11% ($436 million) growth in business and 

government deposits. 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). 

table 13 – DePosits by source 
(AS A PERCENTAGE OF TOTAL DEPOSITS AT OCTOBER 31)

Branches

Deposit brokers

Capital markets

total

Deposits are primarily generated from the branch network (including 
CWT, CDF 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, which 
has enhanced importance as the Bank transitions toward the Basel 
III rules governing liquidity beginning in 2015 (see the Liquidity 
Management section of this MD&A). 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. CDF, the Internet-based division of the 
Bank, currently offers various deposit products to customers in 
all provinces and territories except Quebec. The total amount of 
deposits outstanding in CDF at October 31, 2012 was $178 million, a 
74% increase compared to a year earlier. 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. 

Insured deposits raised through deposit brokers also 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 

2012

57%

36

7

100%

2011

58%

40

2

100%

retail deposits over a wide geographic base. The proportion of funds 
sourced through deposit brokers was reduced in 2012 as a result 
of growth in branch-raised deposits and the issuance of senior 
deposit notes in the debt capital markets. The selective use of capital 
markets-based funding commenced in 2011 upon the establishment 
of a credit rating by DBRS on the Bank’s long-term deposits and 
senior debt. As additional sources of funding, in 2012 the Bank 
securitized $226 million of equipment leases and sold a $50 million 
portfolio of residential mortgages via a whole loan sale. 

Growth in total branch-raised deposits was 11% ($782 million) in 
2012, while the demand and notice component within branch-raised 
deposits increased 12% ($468 million). Demand and notice deposits, 
which include lower cost funding sources, comprised 32% of total 
deposits at year end, unchanged from the previous year. Branch-
raised deposits comprised 57% of total deposits, compared to 
58% in the previous year. 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, including CWT’s 
success in generating deposits through its trust business.

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

37

 
 
 
 
 
ouTlook for dePosiTs

A strategic focus on increasing branch-raised deposits will continue 
in 2013 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 
expansions and/or openings of full-service branches, also supports 
the objectives to generate branch-raised deposits. Various strategic 
initiatives, which include the offering of significantly enhanced cash 
management products and a competitive business savings account, 
are also intended to further augment desired types of branch-raised 
funding. The 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 augment 
and diversify both the long- and short-term funding base over 
time. Provided costs remain satisfactory, National Leasing plans to 
continue utilizing securitization channels for a portion of its funding 
requirements. Management also continues to evaluate the benefits 
of using loan securitization and/or additional whole loan sales as 
added sources of funding for certain other types of portfolios, most 
notably residential mortgages.

other assets and other liabilities
At October 31, 2012 other assets totaled $347 million (2011 – $318 
million). Property and equipment increased $14 million mainly due to 
ongoing investment in both physical infrastructure and technology. 
Insurance related other assets were $58 million (2011 – $57 million) 
and consisted primarily of instalment premiums receivable as well 
as deferred policy acquisition costs. The amount of goodwill and 

intangible assets recorded on the balance sheet at October 31, 2012 
was $46 million and $32 million, respectively.

Other liabilities totaled $524 million at October 31, 2012 (2011 – 
$458 million). Insurance related other liabilities were $160 million 
(2011 – $149 million) and consisted primarily of provisions for unpaid 
claims and adjustment expenses and unearned premiums. 

liquidity management

highlights of 2012

•	 Maintained a strong liquidity position and conservative 

investment profile.

•	 Compared to recent years, relative stability in Canadian capital 
markets allowed the Bank to maintain its lowest yielding liquid 
assets at levels more consistent with a normal operating 
environment; liquidity was augmented in the fourth quarter of 
the year based on expected business requirements. 

•	 In October 2012, DBRS maintained its published credit ratings 
on CWB of A (low) and BBB (high) for long-term senior debt/
deposits and subordinated debentures, respectively; both 
ratings were issued indicating a stable outlook.

A schedule outlining the consolidated securities portfolio at 
October 31, 2012 is provided in Note 4 to the consolidated financial 
statements. A conservative investment profile is maintained by 
ensuring:

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

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

•	 monitoring liquidity reserve levels;

•	 monitoring micro- and macroeconomic trends and key risk 

indicators;

•	 micro- and macroeconomic scenario stress testing;

•	 specific investment criteria and procedures are in place to manage 

•	 maintaining a short duration liquidity portfolio;

the securities portfolio;

•	 regular review, monitoring and approval of investment policies 
is completed by management’s Investment Committee and the 
Asset Liability Committee (ALCO); and,

•	 quarterly reports are provided to the Board of Directors (the Board) 

on the composition of the securities portfolio, which is further 
supported by the Board’s annual review and approval of 
investment policies.

•	 monitoring the credit profile of the liquidity portfolio;

•	 monitoring deposit liability diversification;

•	 monitoring deposit behaviour; and,

•	 ongoing market surveillance.

38

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

 
table 14 – liquiD assets  
($ ThOUSANDS)

Cash and non-interest bearing deposits with financial institutions

$ 

33,690 

$ 

73,318 

$ 

(39,628)

2012

2011

Change

from

2011

Deposits with regulated financial institutions

Cheques and other items in transit

total cash resources

Government of Canada treasury bills

Government of Canada, provincial and municipal debt, term to maturity 1 year or less

Government of Canada, provincial and municipal debt, term to maturity more than 1 year

Other debt securities

Preferred shares

Common shares

Securities sold under resale agreement

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

As shown in Table 14, liquid assets comprised of cash, interbank 
deposits, securities purchased (or sold) under resale agreements and 
marketable securities totaled $2,503 million at October 31, 2012, 
an increase of $265 million compared to a year earlier. Liquid assets 
represented 15% (2011 – 15%) of total assets and 18% (2011 – 18%) 
of total deposit liabilities at year end.

The composition of total liquid assets shifted compared to October 
31, 201 1 through the normal course of prudent liquidity management. 
This resulted in a significant increase in the allocation of Government 
of Canada, provincial and municipal debt securities with a maturity 
of one year or less, and also contributed to a lower overall average 
yield on the securities portfolio. highlights of the composition of 
liquid assets at October 31, 2012 are as follows:

•	 Maturities within one year increased to 53% (2011 – 40%) of 

liquid assets, or $1,332 million (2011 – $892 million);

•	 Government of Canada, provincial and municipal debt securities 

increased to 58% (2011 – 46%) of liquid assets;

•	 Deposits with regulated financial institutions, including Bankers’ 
Acceptances, decreased to 8% (2011 – 14%) of liquid assets;

•	 Preferred shares decreased to 16% (2011 – 22%) of liquid assets; 

and,

 177,028 

 26,265 

 236,983 

 378,253 

 610,103 

 470,466 

 371,044 

 398,752 

 107,482 

 (70,089)

 233,964 

 5,053 

 312,335 

 384,721 

 173,723 

 465,943 

 303,545 

 497,130 

 100,642 

 – 

 (56,936)

 21,212 

 (75,352)

 (6,468)

 436,380 

 4,523 

 67,499 

 (98,378)

 6,840 

 (70,089)

$  2,266,011

$ 

1,925,704

$  2,502,994 

$  2,238,039 

$ 

$ 

340,307

264,955 

$  16,873,269 

$  14,849,141 

$  2,024,128 

 15%

 15%

 –

$  14,144,837 

$  12,394,689 

$ 

1,750,148 

 18%

 18%

 –

•	 Other marketable securities increased by 1% to 19% of liquid 

assets.

When applicable, securities purchased under resale agreements 
are included in liquid assets, while securities sold under resale 
agreements are deducted from liquid assets. Securities purchased 
under resale agreements represent short-term loans to securities 
dealers that require subsequent repurchase of the securities received 
as collateral, typically within a few days. Securities sold under resale 
agreements are included in other liabilities and totaled $70 million 
at October 31, 2012, compared to nil a year earlier. 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 
given as collateral. Collateral securities are comprised of government 
or other high quality liquid securities. These agreements are primarily 
used for cash management purposes.

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. As additional sources of 
liquidity and funding, in 2012 the Bank securitized $226 million of 
equipment leases and sold a $50 million portfolio of residential 
mortgages via a whole loan sale.

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

39

 
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, 2012

Demand deposits

Notice deposits

Deposits payable on a fixed date

total

October 31, 2011 Total

table 16 – total DePosit Maturities 
($ MILLIONS)

October 31, 2012

Demand deposits

Notice deposits

Deposits payable on a fixed date

total

October 31, 2011 Total

within

1 to 3

3 months

cumulative

1 month

months

to 1 year within 1 year

$ 

685 

$ 

 3,774 

 931 

$ 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 1,106 

 3,428 

$  5,390 

$  4,884 

$ 

$ 

1,106 

$  3,428 

1,009 

$  2,912 

$ 

$ 

$ 

685 

 3,774 

 5,465 

9,924 

8,805 

within 

1 year

$ 

685 

$ 

 3,774 

 5,465 

1 to 2 

years

 – 

 – 

 2,057 

$  9,924 

$  2,057 

$  8,805 

$  2,046 

2 to 3

years

 – 

 – 

 1,262 

1,262 

893 

$ 

$ 

$ 

3 to 4

years

 – 

 – 

 466 

466 

376 

$ 

$ 

$ 

4 to 5 more than

years

5 years

$ 

$ 

$ 

 – 

 – 

 436 

436 

275 

$ 

$ 

$ 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

$ 

$ 

$ 

total

685 

 3,774 

 9,686 

14,145 

12,395

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 regularly to ensure an acceptable level 
of funding diversification is maintained. Management continues to 
develop and implement strategies to ensure branch-raised deposits 
remain the core source of funding. At the same time, the total 
dollar value of broker-generated deposits is expected to increase to 
support incremental asset growth or when higher levels of liquidity 

are required. Insured deposits raised through deposit brokers remain 
a highly effective and valued funding source. Deposits raised in the 
capital markets provide a further source of liquidity. 

In addition to deposit liabilities, CWB has subordinated debentures 
and debt securities related to the securitization of leases to third 
parties (refer to Note 16 of the consolidated financial statements for 
additional information). 

A summary of subordinated debentures outstanding is presented in the following table:

table 17 – suborDinateD Debentures outstanDing 
($ ThOUSANDS)

Interest

Rate

4.389% (1)

5.571% (2)

5.950% (3)

5.070% (4)

total

 Maturity 

 Earliest Date 

 Redeemable 

 Date 

 by CWB at Par 

2012 

2011 

November 30, 2020 

 November 30, 2015 

$ 

300,000 

$ 

300,000 

March 21, 2022

 March 22, 2017 

 June 27, 2018

 June 28, 2013 

 March 21, 2017

 March 22, 2012 

 75,000 

 50,000 

 – 

$ 

425,000 

$ 

 75,000 

 50,000 

 120,000 

545,000 

(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 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.

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

Bankers’ Acceptance rate plus 302 basis points. 

(4) 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 155 basis points. Of the $125,000 debentures issued, $5,000 were held by Canadian Direct Insurance Incorporated, a wholly owned subsidiary, and eliminated on 
consolidation at October 31, 201 1. On March 22, 2012, these conventional debentures were redeemed by the Bank.

40

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ouTlook for liquidiTy ManageMenT 

The Bank continues to refine its methodologies for measuring and 
monitoring liquidity risk. CWB utilizes dynamic scenario analysis 
to monitor and stress liquidity coverage while maintaining prudent 
liquidity standards. To the extent the composition of liquid assets 
continues to include a higher balance of low yielding government 
securities, net interest margin will be further pressured. 

The Basel Committee on Banking Supervision has issued a 
framework document outlining two new liquidity standards. The 
document prescribes the Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR) and Net 

Stable Funding Ratio (NSFR) as minimum regulatory standards 
effective January 1, 2015 and January 1, 2018, respectively. The 
LCR establishes a common measure of liquidity risk and requires 
institutions to maintain sufficient liquid assets to cover a minimum 
of 30 days of cash flow requirements in a stress situation. The 
NSFR establishes a second common measure of liquidity based on 
the ratio of longer term assets to longer term liabilities. Although 
the rules are not yet finalized, CWB believes it is well positioned to 
comply with the new requirements.

capital management

highlights of 2012

•	 Maintained strong Basel II Tier 1 and total capital adequacy 

ratios of 10.6% and 13.8%, respectively.

of tangible common equity to risk-weighted assets at 8.8%, up 
from 8.6%.

•	 Well positioned for the “all-in” implementation of the Basel III 

•	 Cash dividends of $0.62 per share paid to common 

rules for Canadian banks, effective January 1, 2013.

shareholders, up 15%.

•	 Supported very strong loan growth while maintaining the ratio 

•	 Redeemed $125 million of subordinated debentures.

subsequent highlights

•	 In December 2012, the Board of Directors declared a quarterly 
cash dividend of $0.17 per common share, an increase of 6% 
($0.01) over the previous quarterly cash dividend and 13% 

($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 is 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 the 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,  
as well as changing regulatory capital requirements.

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 18 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.

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

41

 
basel ii caPital adeQuacy accord
The Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions Canada 
(OSFI) 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. Securitized 
assets (reported on balance sheet under IFRS) result in a deduction 
from both Tier 1 and total capital. As CWB’s insurance subsidiary 
(Canadian Direct) is subject to separate OSFI capital requirements 
specific to insurance companies, its assets are excluded from the 
consolidated calculation of risk-weighted assets. however, the Bank’s 

investment in Canadian Direct ($71.4 million at October 31, 2012 
and $80.9 million at October 31, 2011) is deducted 50% against 
Tier 1 capital and 50% against Tier 2 capital. At October 31, 201 1, 
the capital deduction related to Canadian Direct was deducted 
solely from Tier 2 capital. Accordingly, this change effective in fiscal 
2012 had a negative impact on the level of Tier 1 regulatory capital 
compared to the previous year.

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 collective 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 2012.

42

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

table 19 – caPital structure anD basel ii regulatory ratios at year enD (1) 
($ ThOUSANDS)

tier 1 capital

Retained earnings

Common shares

Preferred shares

Share-based payment reserve

Innovative capital instrument (2)

Non-controlling interest in subsidiary

Less goodwill 

Less investment in insurance subsidiary

Less securitization

total

tier 2 capital

Collective allowance for credit losses (Tier 2A) (3)

Accumulated unrealized gains on available-for-sale securities, net of tax (4)

Subordinated debentures (Tier 2B) (5)

Less investment in insurance subsidiary
Less securitization

total

total regulatory capital

Regulatory Capital to Risk-Weighted Assets

Tier 1 capital

Tier 2 capital

total regulatory capital adequacy ratio

assets to regulatory capital multiple (6)

2012 

2011 

2011 

Change from

$ 

733,298 

$ 

650,028 

$ 

83,270 

 490,218 

 209,750 

 22,468 

 105,000 

 266 

 (45,536)

 (35,699)

 (18,989)

 408,014 

 209,750 

 21,884 

 105,000 

 225 

 (37,852)

 – 

 (6,583)

 1,460,776 

 1,350,466 

 82,204 

 – 

 584 

 – 

 41 

 (7,684)

 (35,699)

 (12,406)

 110,310

 6,915 

 3,849

 67,344 

 5,358 

 425,000 

 (35,699)

 (18,989)

 443,014 

 60,429 

 1,509 

 545,000 

 (120,000)

 (80,941)

 (6,583)

 519,414 

 45,242 

 (12,406)

 (76,400)

$  1,903,790 

$  1,869,880 

$ 

33,910 

 10.6%

 3.2 

 13.8%

 8.8 

 11.1%

 4.3 

 15.4%

 7.9 

 (0.5)%

 (1.1)

 (1.6)%

 0.9 

(1)  The 2011 capital structure and regulatory ratios reflect the returns filed and have not been restated to IFRS.
(2)  The innovative capital instrument consists of CWB Capital Trust Capital Securities Series 1 (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.

(3)  Banks are permitted to include the collective allowance for credit losses up to a prescribed percentage of risk-weighted assets in Tier 2A capital. 
(4) 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.

(5)  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.

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

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

43

 
table 20 – basel ii 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, 2012

As at October 31, 2011

cash,

securities

and resale

agreements

loans

other

items

total

2012

risk-

weighted

assets

$ 

125,721 

$ 

10,416,367 

$ 

 1,438,368 

 330,964 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 449,672 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 50,071 

 46,184 

 2,172,533 

 184,501 

 986,773 

 – 

 296,579 

 – 

 63,978 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 63,382 

 341,166 

$  10,542,088 

$ 

10,133,106 

 1,488,439 

 377,148 

 2,172,533 

 184,501 

 986,773 

 449,672 

 296,579 

 63,382 

 405,144 

 38,294 

 157,065 

 770,679 

 133,211 

 757,087 

 449,672 

 293,487 

 792,272 

 250,570 

$ 

$ 

2,344,725 

2,036,784 

$ 

$ 

14,216,986 

12,603,801 

$ 

$ 

404,548 

$  16,966,259 

349,826 

$ 

14,990,411 

$ 

$ 

13,775,443 

12,160,91 1 

table 21 – basel ii risk-weighting category 
($ ThOUSANDS)

2012

0%
31,513  $ 

$ 
 1,334,404 
 64 

20%
26,675  $ 

 129,078 
 275,025 

35%

50%

 –  $ 738,414  $ 
 – 
 – 

 24,957 
 – 

150% and
100% greater

75%

balance weighted
 –  $  9,719,326  $  26,159  $ 10,542,087  $ 10,133,106 
 38,294 
 – 
 – 
 157,065 
 – 
 – 

 1,488,439 
 377,149 

 – 
 102,060 

 372,226 

 – 

   1,462,072 

– 

317,125 

21,110 

 – 

  2,172,533 

770,679 

 921 

 8,956 

   1,087 
 – 

  3,911 
 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 
 129,069 

 – 
 28,292 

 – 

 – 
 – 

 – 

 – 
 – 

 – 

 – 
 – 

 – 

 – 
 – 

 174,002 

 29 

 593 

 184,501 

 133,211 

912,693 
 – 

63,677 
 449,672 

5,405 
 – 

  986,773 
 449,672 

757,087 
 449,672 

 12,369 

 284,210 

 – 

 296,579 

 293,487 

 – 
 11,486 

 – 
 236,297 

 63,382 
 – 

 63,382 
 405,144 

 792,272 
 250,570 

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, 2012

$ 1,869,284 

$  471,937 

$ 1,462,072 

$  763,371 

$ 1,427,675 

$  10,876,381 

$  95,539 

$ 16,966,259 

$ 13,775,443 

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

As at October 31, 2012, the Basel II Tier 1 capital adequacy ratio was 
10.6% (2011 – 1 1.1%) and the total capital adequacy ratio was 13.8% 
(201 1 – 15.4%). Tier 1 regulatory capital increased $110 million over 
2011 mainly resulting from:

•	 the retention of earnings, net of common and preferred share 

dividends, of $124 million; 

•	 the issuance of $63 million of CWB common shares to settle the 

contingent consideration of National Leasing; and,

•	 the issuance of $18 million of CWB common shares resulting from 
shareholder participation in the Bank’s DRIP and the exercise of 
employee stock options, partially offset by: 

•	 a $49 million deduction reflecting the full transition impact to IFRS;

•	 a $36 million net reduction resulting from the expiration of a 

Basel II transition related to investments in insurance subsidiaries 
(previously deducted from total capital), as well as the impact of a 
$20 million dividend paid by Canadian Direct to the Bank; and, 

•	 a $12 million increase in the Tier 1 capital deduction for additional 

pools of securitized assets.

44

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total regulatory capital increased $34 million over 2011 mainly 
resulting from the factors mentioned above, offset by:

•	 the redemption of $125 million of subordinated debentures ($120 
million of which was previously included as regulatory capital); 
and,

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

longer qualify;

•	 investment in an insurance subsidiary is no longer deducted from 

capital; and

•	 changes in the capital treatment for investments in the regulatory 

•	 a $13 million increase in the total capital deduction for additional 

capital of other financial institutions.

pools of securitized assets.

basel iii caPital adeQuacy accord
The Basel Committee on Banking Supervision of The Bank for 
International Settlements (the Committee) published the Basel III 
rules 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 at the beginning of calendar 
2013. OSFI also issued guidance and advisories on its capital 
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 NVCC instruments include a clause requiring 
conversion to common equity in the event that OSFI deems the 
institution to be insolvent or a government has decided to inject 
“bail out” funding;

ouTlook for caPiTal ManageMenT

OSFI requires Canadian banks to comply with the Basel III capital 
standards on an “all-in” basis effective January 1, 2013. Required 
minimum regulatory capital ratios, including a 250 basis point capital 
conservation buffer, will be 7.0% tangible common equity Tier 1 
(CET1) as at January 1, 2013, and 8.5% Tier 1 and 10.5% total capital 
as at January 1, 2014. The Basel III rules provide for transitional 
adjustments whereby certain aspects of the new rules will be phased 
in between 2013 and 2019. The only available transition adjustment 
in the Basel III capital standards permitted by OSFI for Canadian 
banks relates to the multi-year phase out of non-qualifying capital 
instruments. Pro forma application of the “all-in” Basel III standards 
to the Bank’s financial position at October 31, 2012 results in an 
estimated 8.1% CET1 ratio, 9.9% Tier 1 ratio and 13.1% 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 strategic initiatives, the composition of 
regulatory capital, the Bank’s financial performance in the future 
and modifications, if any, to the standards and available transitional 
adjustments implemented by regulatory authorities. 

The Bank is well positioned for the forthcoming Basel III transition 
and management expects this solid capital position will be 
maintained. Currently, the Bank’s pro forma “all-in” Basel III capital 
ratios are approximately 100 basis points above OSFI’s required 
minimums for all ratios, and have the Bank reasonably positioned 
to manage future business growth and unexpected events. Target 
capital ratios under Basel III, including an appropriate capital buffer 
over the prescribed OSFI minimums, will be reconfirmed through 
ongoing development of the Bank’s comprehensive ICAAP for 
2013. The ongoing retention of earnings should support capital 
requirements associated with the anticipated achievement of the 
2013 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. Longer term strategies 
to further optimize the Bank’s existing capital structure are also 

underway. As an example, CWB currently reports its regulatory 
capital ratios using the Standardized Approach for calculating risk-
weighted assets. Management believes this approach requires 
the Bank to carry significantly more capital for certain credit 
exposures compared to requirements under the Advanced Internal 
Ratings Based (AIRB) methodology used by many other financial 
institutions. For this reason, regulatory capital ratios of banks that 
utilize the Standardized Approach versus the AIRB methodology 
are not directly comparable. Required resources, costs and 
potential timelines related to the Bank’s possible transition to an 
AIRB methodology for managing credit risk and calculating risk-
weighted assets are still being evaluated, and would be subject to 
the approval of OSFI. Preliminary analysis confirms a multi-year 
time frame would be required. CWB’s new core banking system, 
expected to be implemented in 2015, is also a critical component 
for a number of requirements necessary for AIRB compliance, 
including the collection and analyses of certain types of data.

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

45

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 debt.

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.

derivative financial instruments
More detailed information on the nature of derivative financial 
instruments is shown in Note 11 to the 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)

Equity swaps (2)

Foreign exchange contracts (3)

total

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.  
Net realized gains (losses) on securities are shown separately  
in other income.

2012

2011

$ 

225,000 

$ 

19,400 

 15,445 

 2,450 

 – 

 6,384 

$ 

242,895 

$ 

25,784 

(1)  Interest rate contracts are used as hedging devices to manage interest rate risk. The outstanding contracts mature between January and October 2013.
(2)  Equity swaps designated as hedges mature between June 2013 and June 2015. Equity swaps are used to reduce the earnings volatility from restricted share units linked to the Bank’s common 

share price. 

(3)  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 2012 and July 2013.

The active use of interest rate contracts remains an integral 
component in managing the Bank’s short-term gap position. CWB 
had previously allowed outstanding interest rate swaps designated 
as cash flow hedges for interest rate risk to mature without 
replacement. The significant increase in the volume of outstanding 
contracts (measured by the notional amount) compared to 2011 
reflects the normal course management of interest rate risk and 
more favourable costs of certain hedging instruments. 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 the Asset Liability Committee and reviewed and approved by the 
Board of Directors at least annually. 

acquisitions
There were no material acquisitions in 201 1 or 2012.

off-balance sheet 
Off-balance sheet items include assets under administration and 
assets under management. Total assets under administration, which 
are comprised of trust assets under administration and third-party 
leases under service agreements, totaled $7,172 million at October 
31, 2012, compared to $9,370 million one year ago. The significant 
reduction in assets under administration compared to the same 
time last year reflects the termination of a lease servicing contract in 
December 2011. Assets under management held within Adroit were 
$855 million at year end, compared to $816 million last year.

Other off-balance sheet items are comprised of standard industry 
credit instruments (guarantees, standby letters of credit and 
commitments to extend credit). CWB does not utilize, nor does it 
have exposure to, collateralized debt obligations or credit default 
swaps. For additional information regarding other off-balance 
sheet items refer to Note 20 of the audited consolidated financial 
statements.

46

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

 
summary of Quarterly results and fourth Quarter

Quarterly results
The financial results for each of the last eight quarters are 
summarized in Table 23. In general, CWB’s performance reflects a 
consistent growth trend, although the second quarter contains three 
fewer revenue-earning days (or two fewer days in a leap year like 
2012).

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, are subject 
to seasonal weather conditions, cyclical patterns of the industry 
and natural catastrophes. Mandatory participation in the Alberta 
auto risk sharing pools can also result in unpredictable quarterly 
fluctuations. 

Among other things, quarterly results can also fluctuate from the 
recognition of periodic income tax items.

Net gains on securities, reflected in other income, were unusually 

table 23 – quarterly Financial highlights(1) 
($ ThOUSANDS, ExCEPT PER ShARE AMOUNTS)

high in the first two quarters of 2011, as well as in the second and 
fourth quarters of 2012. The majority of net gains on securities in 
these periods resulted from the repositioning of investments in 
preferred and common equities. Other income in the fourth quarter 
of 2011 included a $3.1 million net loss on securities. Based on the 
current composition of the securities portfolio, management expects 
the level of net gains on securities will be significantly reduced in 
future periods.

Detailed management’s discussion and analysis along with unaudited 
interim consolidated financial statements for each quarter, except for 
the fourth quarters of fiscal 2011 and 2012, 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.

Net interest income (teb)
Less teb adjustment
Net interest income

per financial statements

Other income
Total revenues (teb)
Total revenues
Net income
Earnings per common share

Basic
Diluted
Adjusted cash
Return on common

shareholders’ equity (ROE)
Return on average total assets (ROA)
Efficiency ratio (teb)
Efficiency ratio
Net interest margin (teb)
Net interest margin
Provision for credit losses as

2012

2011

Q4
$ 113,246 
 1,979 

Q3
$  115,217 
 2,086 

Q2
$ 107,600 
 2,458 

Q1
$ 107,509 
 2,620 

Q4
$ 106,184 
 3,133 

Q3
$ 104,886 
 2,797 

Q2
$  99,165 
 2,385 

Q1
$  101,217 
 2,744 

 111,267 
 19,932 
 133,178 
 131,199 
 43,046 

 113,131 
 22,933 
 138,150 
 136,064 
 48,004 

 105,142 
 20,254 
 127,854 
 125,396 
 39,669 

 104,889 
 18,791 
 126,300 
 123,680 
 41,478 

 103,051 
 13,489 
 119,673 
 116,540 
 35,921 

 102,089 
 17,867 
 122,753 
 119,956 
 38,824 

 96,780 
 20,601 
 119,766 
 117,381 
 36,941 

 98,473 
 20,146
 121,363 
 118,619 
 37,852

 0.55 
 0.55 
 0.56 

 13.8%
 1.03 
 46.7 
 47.4 
 2.71 
 2.67 

 0.62 
 0.61 
 0.63 

 16.1%
 1.19 
 42.8 
 43.4 
 2.85 
 2.80 

 0.52 
 0.52 
 0.55 

 14.6%
 1.03 
 46.2 
 47.1 
 2.81 
 2.74 

 0.55 
 0.54 
 0.57 

 15.5%
 1.07 
 43.7 
 44.6 
 2.77 
 2.70 

 0.48 
 0.47 
 0.53 

 13.6%
 0.97 
 45.5 
 46.7 
 2.87 
 2.79 

 0.52 
 0.50 
 0.54 

 14.3%
 1.11 
 44.6 
 45.6 
 2.99 
 2.91 

 0.52 
 0.48 
 0.55 

 15.2%
 1.12 
 44.9 
 45.7 
 3.02 
 2.95 

 0.56 
 0.50 
 0.55 

 15.9%
 1.15 
 44.5 
 45.5 
 3.07 
 2.99 

a percentage of average loans

 0.17 

 0.19 

 0.19 

 0.20 

 0.17 

 0.17 

 0.19 

 0.23 

(1)  See page 19 for a discussion of teb and non-GAAP measures.

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

47

 
fourth Quarter of 2012
CWB posted solid fourth quarter performance marking its 98th 
consecutive profitable quarter. Net income available to common 
shareholders of $43.0 million was up 20% ($7.1 million) compared 
to the same quarter last year while diluted earnings per common 
share increased 17% to $0.55. Adjusted cash earnings per share, 
which excludes the after-tax amortization of acquisition-related 
intangible assets and the non-tax deductible change in fair value of 
contingent consideration, was $0.56, up 6%. Fourth quarter total 
revenues (teb) grew 11% ($13.5 million) to reach a record $133.2 
million as the benefit of very strong 14% year-over-year loan growth 
and 48% ($6.4 million) higher other income more than offset the 
impact of a 16 basis point decline in net interest margin (teb) to 
2.71%. Growth in other income mainly resulted from an $8.5 million 
positive change in net gains on securities and the elimination of 
charges related to changes in fair value of contingent consideration 
($3.6 million in the fourth quarter of 2011), partially offset by $4.0 
million lower net insurance revenues and a $2.6 million decline in the 
“other” component of other income. Net gains on securities of $5.4 
million in the fourth quarter compared to net losses of $3.1 million in 
the same period of 2011. Charges for contingent consideration were 
eliminated in the third quarter of this year upon the settlement of the 
Bank’s ownership of National Leasing. Net insurance revenues were 
impacted by increased claims expense related to severe hailstorms 
in Alberta in August 2012. Other income in the fourth quarter of 201 1 
included a $2.0 million gain attributed to the sale of a residential 
mortgage portfolio.

Compared to last quarter, net income available to common 
shareholders declined 10% ($5.0 million) as the positive revenue 
contribution from 2% quarterly loan growth and $3.5 million higher 
gains on securities was more than offset by the combined impact 
of a 14 basis point reduction in net interest margin (teb), a $5.3 
million decline in net insurance revenues and a $1.8 million reduction 
in the “other” component of other income. The material reduction 
in net interest margin largely resulted from unusually high interest 
recoveries in the previous quarter, as well as lower yields on both 
loans and securities, partially offset by more favourable fixed term 

deposit costs. Diluted earnings per common share decreased 10% 
($0.06) from the prior quarter while adjusted cash earnings per 
share was down 11% ($0.07). 

Net interest margin (teb) of 2.71% was down from 2.87% in 
the fourth quarter last year with the difference resulting from 
lower yields on both loans and securities, partially offset by more 
favourable costs on fixed term deposits and reduced debt expense. 
Compared to the prior quarter, net interest margin (teb) decreased 
14 basis points reflecting significantly lower interest recoveries 
on previously impaired loans and lower yields on both loans and 
securities, partially offset by more favourable fixed term deposit 
costs. 

The quarterly return on common shareholders’ equity of 13.8% 
increased 20 basis points compared to a year earlier, but was down 
230 basis points from the prior quarter for the reasons already 
mentioned. Fourth quarter return on assets of 1.03% compared to 
0.97% last year and 1.19% in the previous quarter. 

Total loans of $13,954 million grew 2% ($311 million) in the quarter 
mainly reflecting growth in general commercial loans, equipment 
financing and leasing, and personal loans and mortgages. 

Overall credit quality remained sound reflecting disciplined 
underwriting, secured lending practices and a relatively strong level 
of economic activity in the Bank’s key geographic markets. Gross 
impaired loans totaled $66.8 million at quarter end, compared 
to $70.2 million last quarter and $97.3 million a year earlier. This 
represented the tenth consecutive quarterly decrease in the dollar 
level of impaired loans.

The fourth quarter efficiency ratio (teb), which measures non-
interest expenses as a percentage of total revenues (teb), 
excluding the non-tax deductible change in fair value of contingent 
consideration, was 46.7%, up 120 basis points. 

48

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

accounting Policies and estimates

critical accounting estimates
CWB’s significant accounting policies are outlined in Note 1 with 
related financial note disclosures by major caption included 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 collective allowance for 
credit losses is intended to address this uncertainty. At October 31, 
2012, the Bank’s total allowance for credit losses was $81.7 million 
(201 1 – $72.0 million) which included a specific allowance of $14.4 
million (2011 – $10.7 million) and a collective allowance of $67.3 
million (2011 – $61.3 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. 

ProVision for unPaid insurance 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 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, 2012, the provision for unpaid 
claims and adjustment expenses totaled $86.2 million (2011 – $76.9 
million). Additional information on the process and methodology for 
determining the provision for unpaid claims and adjustment expenses 
can be found in Note 21 to the consolidated financial statements. 

financial instruments measured  
at fair Value
Cash resources, securities, securities purchased (sold) under resale 
agreements, acquisition contingent consideration and derivative 
financial instruments are reported on the consolidated balance 
sheets at fair value.

The Bank categorizes its fair value measurements of financial 
instruments recorded on the consolidated balance sheets according 
to a three-level hierarchy. Level 1 fair value measurements reflect 
published market prices quoted in active markets. Level 2 fair value 
measurements were estimated using a valuation technique based 
on observable market data. Level 3 fair value measurements were 
determined using a valuation technique based on non-market 
observable input. 

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

49

The following table summarizes the significant financial assets and liabilities reported at fair value.

table 24 – valuation oF Financial instruMents 
($ ThOUSANDS)

as at october 31, 2012

Financial Assets

Cash resources

Securities

Derivative related

Total Financial Assets

Financial Liabilities

Derivative related

As at October 31, 2011

Financial Assets

Cash resources

Securities

Total Financial Assets

Financial Liabilities

Other liability

Derivative related

Total Financial Liabilities

Fair Value

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Valuation Technique

$ 

236,983 

$ 

236,983 

$ 

 2,336,100 

 2,336,100 

$ 

 – 

 – 

 1,951 

 – 

 1,951 

$ 

2,575,034 

$ 

2,573,083 

$ 

1,951 

$ 

$ 

10 

$ 

 – 

$ 

10 

$ 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

Fair Value

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Valuation Technique

$ 

312,335 

$ 

272,704 

$ 

39,631 

$ 

 1,925,704 

 1,925,704 

 – 

$ 

2,238,039 

$ 

2,198,408 

$ 

39,631 

$ 

 – 

 – 

 – 

$ 

$ 

61,011 

$ 

436 

61,447 

$ 

 – 

– 

 – 

$ 

$ 

 – 

$ 

61,011 

436 

436 

– 

$ 

61,011 

Notes 3, 4, 5, 1 1 and 29 to the consolidated financial statements provide additional information regarding these financial instruments. 

changes in accounting Policies 

international financial  
rePorting standards
The Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants (CICA) 
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, 201 1, including comparatives for the prior year. As a 
result, the Bank’s consolidated financial statements are prepared in 
accordance with IFRS in effect at October 31, 2012 for the 2012 fiscal 
year, and include comparative information for the 2011 fiscal year. 

Impact on Financial Reporting and Accounting Policies 
As stated in Notes 1 and 32 to the consolidated financial statements, 
these are the Bank’s first annual financial statements prepared in 
accordance with IFRS. In preparing the opening IFRS consolidated 
balance sheet as at November 1, 2010, the Bank has adjusted 
amounts reported previously in the 2011 consolidated financial 
statements prepared in accordance with Canadian GAAP. An 
explanation of how the transition from Canadian GAAP to IFRS has 
affected the Bank is set out below. The impact on the Bank’s business 
activities, financial processes and information systems, and internal 
controls was not significant. IFRS has been applied retrospectively, 
except for certain optional and mandatory exemptions from full 
retrospective application provided for under IFRS 1 - First time 
Adoption of IFRS (IFRS 1), as described below:

Optional Exemptions
Business combinations – The Bank has elected to apply IFRS 3 – 
Business Combinations prospectively only to business combinations 
on or after February 1, 2010. As a result, business combinations prior 
to February 1, 2010 have not been restated.

Mandatory Exemptions
The Bank has applied all mandatory exemptions as required under IFRS 1.

Business Combinations
The Bank elected to apply IFRS retrospectively to business 
combinations that occurred on or after February 1, 2010. This 
election resulted in the adjustment of the accounting for the February 
1, 2010 acquisition of National Leasing. The following transition 
adjustments were required:

•	 Under Canadian GAAP, contingent consideration is recorded only 
when it is determinable beyond a reasonable doubt. Under IFRS, 
certain contingent consideration arrangements are reported at  
fair value as at the acquisition date, and, each period thereafter, 
the contingent consideration fair value is remeasured and  
any adjustments are recorded in other income (non-tax 
deductible).

•	 Under Canadian GAAP, acquisition-related costs are included in 
the cost of the acquisition while, under IFRS, acquisition-related 
costs are expensed.

•	 Under Canadian GAAP, the valuation of the Bank’s shares issued 
as part of the consideration for the acquisition is based on a 
reasonable time frame before and after the acquisition date. Under 
IFRS, the valuation is completed on the acquisition date.

50

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

  
  
  
  
Derecognition of Securitized Financial Assets
The Bank participates in securitization activities. Securitization 
consists of the transfer of equipment leases to an independent trust 
or other third party, which purchases the cash flows associated with 
the leases and may issue securities to investors. Under Canadian 
GAAP, securitized assets are accounted for as sales and removed 
from the consolidated balance sheet as the Bank surrenders control 
of the transferred assets and receives consideration other than 
beneficial interests in the transferred assets. Under IFRS, because 
the Bank has an obligation to remit contractual cash flow payments 
regardless of whether the underlying cash flows are collected from 
lessees, the Bank has not transferred substantially all of the risks and 
rewards relating to the leases. As a result, the derecognition criteria 
within International Accounting Standards (IAS) 39 – Financial 
Instruments: Recognition and Measurement are not met and the  
leases are accounted for as a secured borrowing with the underlying 
leases of the securitization remaining on the consolidated balance 
sheet and a debt security recognized for the funding received.

Consolidation
Under IFRS, a special purpose entity (SPE) is consolidated if it is 
deemed to be controlled by the reporting entity, as determined 
under specific criteria. Canadian Western Bank Capital Trust is 
consolidated under IFRS, which resulted in a $105 million decrease 
in deposits and the presentation of the CWB Capital Trust Capital 
Securities Series 1 (WesTS) as equity attributed to non-controlling 
interests. Distributions on the WesTS that were effectively reported 
as deposit interest expense under Canadian GAAP are now 
presented as an equity dividend within IFRS “net income attributable 
to non-controlling interests.” For more information about this 
special purpose entity, refer to Note 19 to the consolidated financial 
statements.

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 it 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. The differences 
between Canadian GAAP and IFRS will generally result in earlier 
recognition of impairment losses through net income under IFRS. 

Other Reclassifications
Certain other financial statement reclassifications have been made 
on the transition to IFRS. An example includes the presentation of 
the non-controlling interest in Adroit Investment Management Ltd. 
which has been reclassified from other liabilities under Canadian 
GAAP to non-controlling interests (presented in equity) under IFRS.

In addition to the IFRS transition adjustments previously described, 
the recognition of certain credit related fees was also amended.  

Certain credit related fees, previously recognized in other income, are 
now reflected as part of the loan yield and amortized to net interest 
income over the expected life of the loan. Because total loans are 
reported net of deferred loan fees, this change resulted in a decrease 
in total loans of $18.0 million, and a reduction in retained earnings of 
$13.5 million. While the change had no impact on 201 1 net income, 
approximately $14.5 million was reclassified from other income to 
net interest income.

future changes in accounting Policies
A number of standards and amendments have been issued by the 
International Accounting Standards Board (IASB), and the following 
changes may have an impact on the Bank’s future financial statements. 
CWB is currently reviewing these standards to determine the impact 
on the financial statements. 

IFRS 9 – Financial Instruments
The IASB deferred the mandatory effective date of IFRS 9 to annual 
periods beginning on or after January 1, 2015. The new standard 
specifies that financial assets be classified into one of two categories 
on initial recognition: financial assets measured at amortized 
cost or financial assets measured at fair value. Gains or losses 
on remeasurement of financial assets measured at fair value will 
generally be recognized in profit or loss. 

IFRS 10 – Consolidated Financial Statements and IFRS 12 – Disclosure  
of Interests in Other Entities
The IASB has issued IFRS 10 and 12, which establish principles 
for the presentation and preparation of consolidated financial 
statements when an entity controls one or more other entities, 
and new disclosure requirements for all forms of interests in other 
entities. IFRS 10 and 12 are effective for annual periods beginning on 
or after January 1, 2013. 

IFRS 13 – Fair Value Measurement
The IASB has issued new guidance on fair value measurement and 
disclosure requirements for IFRS. The amendments are effective for 
annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2013.

Amendments to IAS 32 and IFRS 7 – Offsetting Financial Assets  
and Liabilities
In December 2011, the IASB published Offsetting Financial Assets 
and Financial Liabilities and issued new disclosure requirements in 
IFRS 7 - Financial Instruments: Disclosures. The effective date for the 
amendments to IAS 32 - Financial Instruments: Presentation is annual 
periods beginning on or after January 1, 2014. The effective date for 
the amendments to IFRS 7 is annual periods beginning on or after 
January 1, 2013. These amendments are to be applied retrospectively.

CWB continues to monitor IASB ongoing activity and proposed 
changes to IFRS. Several accounting standards that are in the process 
of being amended by the IASB (i.e. loan impairment, macro-hedging, 
leases and insurance) may have a significant impact on the Bank’s 
future consolidated financial statements.

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

51

risk management 

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 IFRS, which permits these specific 
disclosures to be included in the MD&A. Therefore, the shaded areas 

presented on pages 52 to 57 of this MD&A form an integral part 
of the audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended 
October 31, 2012.

overview
CWB’s risk management processes are designed to complement 
the organization’s overall size, level of complexity and philosophy 
regarding risk, which emphasizes sound controls, effective 
governance, transparency and accountability. Selectively choosing 
and managing acceptable risks has been integral to CWB’s ability to 
continually grow profitability in both favourable and adverse market 
conditions. The maintenance of a strong risk culture continues to be 
a cornerstone of CWB’s approach to risk management.

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, other securities 
or its deposits. CWB has demonstrated its ability to effectively 
manage risks through conservative management practices based 
on a strong risk culture and disciplined risk management approach; 
however, many risks are beyond CWB’s direct control. The Bank 
actively evaluates existing and potential risks to develop and 
implement appropriate mitigation strategies. The level of active 
management related to regulatory risks has increased significantly in 
recent years in response to changes caused by economic fallouts of 
the global financial crisis in 2008, the European sovereign debt crisis 
and other factors. 

Each of CWB’s businesses is subject to certain risks that require 
unique mitigation strategies. In response to this, CWB has 
established a Group Risk Management function that continues 
to evolve under its mandate to provide enhanced and structured 
approaches for identifying and appropriately mitigating risks across 
all companies. Senior management establishes and recommends 
the Group’s risk appetite, which is ultimately approved by the Board 
of Directors. Group Risk Management is functionally independent 
of the business and is responsible for maintaining the group-wide 
risk management framework and resulting policies. Group Risk 
Management also assists senior management in developing and 
communicating risk appetite, as well as monitoring certain risk 
management activities. 

Management uses various forms of stress testing to assist in making 
informed risk management and capital planning decisions, which 
includes the development of sound business strategy. Stress testing 
is performed across key functional areas of CWB and is based on 
both quantitative and qualitative inputs. 

Risk Management Principles 
The following principles guide the management of risks on a group-
wide basis:

•	 An effective balance of risk and reward through alignment of 
business strategy with risk appetite, diversifying risk, pricing 
appropriately for risk, and mitigating risk through preventive and 
detective controls;

•	 A group-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 respective 
day-to-day activities;

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

discussions; and,

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

Effective risk management for CWB requires a strong principles-
based risk culture, a well-defined risk management framework, and 
clearly understood and well documented risk governance practices.

Risk Management Framework
The primary goal of risk management is to ensure that the outcomes 
of risk-taking are consistent with the Bank’s business activities, 
strategies and risk appetite. The Bank’s group-wide risk management 
framework provides the foundation for achieving this goal. CWB 
utilizes 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. This framework is 
subject to constant evaluation to ensure that it meets the challenges 
and requirements faced by CWB in its operations, including the 
evaluation of industry best practices and compliance with evolving 
regulatory standards. 

Risk Culture
A strong risk culture emphasizes transparency and accountability. 
Organizations with a strong risk culture have a consistent and 
repeatable approach to risk management when making key business 
decisions, including regular discussions of risk and reviews of risk 
scenarios that can help management and members of the Board 
understand the inter-relationships and potential impacts of risks. 
CWB’s strong risk culture is the cornerstone of its effective group-
wide risk management framework. It starts with an appropriate 
“tone at the top,” that demonstrates and sends consistent and 
clear messages throughout the organization. Risk culture is 
additionally communicated and emphasized by the actions of senior 
management and the Board.

52

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

 
Risk Management Governance Structure
Management owns the risk it takes or is exposed to while 
conducting CWB’s business activities, while the Board approves  
and monitors the framework under which this risk is managed.  
This places ultimate accountability for the management of risk  
with the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and other members of 
senior management. Senior management, with the assistance of the 
Group Risk Management function, is responsible for establishing 
the framework, identifying risks and developing appropriate risk 
management policies and frameworks. The Board, either directly or 
through its committees, reviews or approves the key policies and 
implements specific reporting procedures to enable monitoring of 
ongoing compliance as it relates to 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, assessment and 
approval.

The Loans Committee of the Board maintains a close working 
relationship with the Credit Risk Management department of the 
Bank and is responsible for the:

•	 review and approval of credit risk management policies;

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

•	 review of impaired and other less than satisfactory loans; and,

•	 recommendation of the adequacy of the allowance for credit 

losses to the Audit Committee.

The Internal Audit department, which reports to the Audit 
Committee, provides independent, objective assurance and 
consulting services designed to improve CWB’s operations. The 
scope of the department’s work includes determining whether the 
network of risk management controls and governance processes, 
as designed and represented by management, are adequate and 
functioning in the intended manner. 

Risk Appetite
Risk appetite is 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 review and guidance from both senior management and 
the Board. CWB continues to formalize a group-wide risk appetite 
framework. key attributes of this framework include the following:

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

•	 No direct exposure to wholesale banking businesses (investment 
banking, brokerage and trading) which are subject to significant 
earnings volatility and can lead to large unexpected losses 
compared to typical spread lending.

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 CEO, President and Chief Operating Officer (COO), Chief 
Financial Officer (CFO) and other senior officers as members. ALCO 
is responsible for:

•	 ensuring that risks other than credit and insurance 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, 
capital risk management, foreign exchange risk, interest rate and 
derivatives risk, operational risk and trust services risk; and,

•	 overseeing strategy and compliance respecting diversification of 

product offerings and management of related risks.

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

•	 Careful and diligent management of risks at all levels led by a 

knowledgeable and experienced management team committed 
to sound management practices and the promotion of a highly 
ethical culture. 

•	 A conservative culture that is prevalent throughout the organization, 

from the Board to senior management to front-line staff. 

•	 A flat organizational structure with management close to their 
respective operations, helping to facilitate effective internal 
communications and reinforcing an appropriate “tone at the top.” 

•	 A continuous commitment and focus on the achievement of high 

quality, sustainable financial results.

•	 A philosophy of avoiding exposure to risks that are not well 

understood. Management strives to thoroughly understand the 
risks of the businesses in which CWB chooses to engage.

•	 Accountability by all employees to understand risks relevant to 

their respective area of responsibility, managing within appropriate 
risk thresholds, and maintaining high ethical standards. The 
businesses are also managed within the confines of all legal and 
regulatory requirements.

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

53

Principal/Foundational Risks 
The ability to identify, measure and monitor risks is a key component 
of effective group-wide risk management. While CWB’s operations 
are exposed to numerous different types of risk – explained in more 
detail in the following sections – certain principal (or foundational) 

risks have been identified that have the greatest potential 
to materially impact CWB’s operations. Following is a visual 
representation of CWB’s principal/foundational risk exposures by 
business line: 

CWB Group

Credit risk 
Market risk
Liquidity/Funding risk  
Capital risk 
Operational risk

Business and Retail
Lending

Business and Retail
Banking Services

Trust Services

Insurance

Wealth Management

Credit risk
Operational risk

Credit risk
Operational risk

Operational risk

Operational risk

Operational risk

Regulatory risk is also considered to be a principal risk for CWB’s 
operations, particularly in the context of the current and evolving 
regulatory environment. These and other important risk factors are 
described in more detail in the following sections. While each of 
these risks is described independently, readers are cautioned that 
many of the factors and risks discussed may also be interrelated. 

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 affiliates. 

Risk Overview
CWB’s main source of credit risk exposure results from its focus 
and expertise in granting business loans and leases. The credit risk 
management culture reflects the unique combination of policies, 
practices, experience and management attitudes that support growth 
within chosen industries and geographic markets. Underwriting 
standards are designed to ensure an appropriate balance of risk and 
return, and are supported by established loan exposure limits in 

areas of demonstrated lending expertise. Concentration is measured 
against specified tolerance levels by geographic region, industry 
sector and product type. In order to minimize its potential loss 
given default, the vast majority of loans are secured by tangible 
collateral. This approach to managing credit risk has proven to be 
very effective, as demonstrated by the Bank’s consistently low and 
relatively stable loan loss provisions and write-offs.

Risk Governance
The credit approval process is centrally controlled, with all significant 
credit requests submitted to the Credit Risk Management group 
for adjudication. Credit Risk Management is independent of the 
originating business. In certain cases, credit requests must be 
referred to the Bank Credit Committee or to the Loans Committee of 
the Board for approval.

The Bank Credit Committee approves credit applications to 
a specified limit beyond the lending limit of the CEO. Credit 
applications above the limit of the Bank Credit Committee are 
approved by the Loans Committee of the Board. 

54

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

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

•	 the oversight of a Loans Committee of the Board; 

•	 delegated lending authorities that are clearly communicated to 

personnel engaged in the credit granting process, complemented 
by a defined approval process for loans in excess of those limits, 
which include making recommendations to the Bank Credit 
Committee or the Loans Committee of the Board;

•	 credit policies, guidelines and directives which are 

communicated to all branches and officers whose activities and 
responsibilities include credit granting and risk assessment;

•	 appointment of personnel engaged in credit granting who are 

both qualified and experienced;

•	 a standardized credit risk rating classification established for all 

credits that is assessed at least 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 while maintaining the quality of loans;

•	 early recognition of problem accounts and immediate 
implementation of steps to protect the safety of the 
Bank’s capital;

•	 delegation of all higher risk loans to a specialized loan workout 
group that performs an appropriate level of regular monitoring 
and close management; 

•	

independent reviews of credit evaluation, risk classification and 
credit management procedures by the Internal Audit group, 
which includes direct reporting of results to senior management, 
the CEO and the Audit Committee; and,

•	 detailed quarterly reviews of accounts rated less than 

satisfactory. Reviews include a recap of action plans for each 
less than satisfactory account, the 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.

Credit Risk Concentration
Risk diversification is addressed by establishing portfolio limits by 
geographic area, industry sector and product. CWB’s policy is to 
limit loans to connected corporate borrowers to not more than 10% 
of the Bank’s shareholders’ equity. Generally, the Bank’s lending 
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.

Environmental Risk
While the day-to-day operations of the Bank do not have a material 
impact on the environment, environmental risks include the risk 
of loss given default if a borrower is unable to repay loans due to 
environmental cleanup costs, and the risk of damage to CWB’s 
reputation resulting from the same. In order to manage these risks, 
and to help mitigate CWB’s overall impact on the environment, 
CWB evaluates potential environmental risks as part of its credit 
granting process. If potential environmental risks are identified that 
cannot be resolved to the Bank’s satisfaction, CWB will deny the 
application. Reports on environmental inspections and findings are 
provided quarterly to the Board. Where financing is provided, Internal 
Audit will sample test loan files to ensure environmental studies 
required as a condition of financing are in place, including review 
for a transmittal letter from the author of the environmental study 
indicating that it may be relied upon for financing purposes.

Portfolio Quality
CWB’s strategy is to maintain a quality, secured and diversified loan 
portfolio by engaging experienced personnel who provide a hands-
on approach in credit granting, account management and quick 
action when problems develop. Lending is largely directed toward 
small- and medium-sized businesses with operations conducted 
in the four western provinces, and to individuals. Relationship 
banking and “knowing your client” are important tenets of effective 
account management. Earning an appropriate financial return for 
the level of risk is also 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 of Canada, and residential mortgages underwritten and 
serviced by Optimum Mortgage in select regions of Ontario. 

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

55

market risk

Market risk is the impact on earnings resulting from changes in financial market variables such as interest rates and foreign exchange rates.

Risk Overview
Market risk arises when making loans, taking deposits and making 
investments. CWB itself does not undertake market activities such 
as market making, arbitrage or proprietary trading and, therefore, 
does not have direct risks related to those activities. A diversified 
securities portfolio is maintained that is primarily comprised of high 
quality debt instruments and preferred and common equities that are 
subject to price fluctuations based on volatility in financial markets. 
The most material market risks for CWB are those related to 
changes in interest rates. CWB has limited direct exposure to foreign 
exchange risk.  

interest rate risk

Risk Governance
The Board of Directors annually approves asset liability policies 
specifying interest rate and foreign exchange exposure limits, and 
regularly reviews the Bank’s position against these thresholds. ALCO 
is responsible for ongoing oversight and reviews and endorses the 
asset liability policies at least annually, in addition to providing 
related strategic direction and oversight for Treasury. Treasury 
actively monitors market risk with strong support from senior 
management.

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 for variability in earnings arise 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 
primarily reflect differences in the preferences for term 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 works within 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 
interest rate risk within prudent guidelines. Interest rate risk policies 
are reviewed and approved by the Board at least annually. The gap 
position is reported to the Board at least quarterly.

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 28 to the consolidated financial 
statements shows the gap position at October 31, 2012 for select 
time intervals.

The analysis in Note 28 is a static measurement of interest rate 
sensitivity gaps at a specific point in time. There is potential for these 
gaps to change significantly in a short period of time. The impact on 
earnings from changes in market interest rates will depend on both 
the magnitude of and speed with which interest rates change, as well 
as the size and maturity structure of the cumulative interest rate gap 
position and the management of those positions over time.

The one-year and under cumulative gap increased to 4.5% of total 
assets at October 31, 2012, up from -0.4% one year ago, while 
the one-month and under gap decreased to 9.1%, from 9.5% 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 have a 
relatively neutral effect on 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 targeted duration as set and guided by ALCO.

56

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

 
 
Of the $5,465 million in fixed term deposit liabilities maturing within 
one year from October 31, 2012, approximately $3,260 million (23% 
of total deposit liabilities) mature by April 30, 2013. The term in 
which maturing deposits are renewed will have an impact on the 
future asset liability structure and, hence, interest rate sensitivity. 
Approximately $237 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 25. 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.

table 25 – 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

$ 

2012

4,411 

 15,086 

$ 

2011

4,015 

 11,024 

 3.8% 

 3.0%

2012

2011

$ 

(6,289)

$ 

(4,786)

 (21,534)

 (13,436)

 (5.4)% 

 (3.7)%

It is estimated that a one-percentage point increase in all interest 
rates at October 31, 2012 would decrease unrealized gains related 
to available-for-sale debt securities and the fair value of interest 
rate swaps designated as hedges, and result in a reduction in 
other comprehensive income of approximately $12.6 million, net 
of tax (October 31, 2011 – $9.0 million); it is estimated that a one-
percentage point decrease in all interest rates at October 31, 2012 
would result in a higher level of unrealized gains related to available-
for-sale debt securities and increase the fair value of interest rate 
swaps designated as hedges, which would increase other 

comprehensive income by approximately $12.6 million, net of tax 
(October 31, 2011 – $9.0 million). 

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 46). 
Assets and liabilities having a term to maturity in excess of five years 
are subject to specific review and control and were not material. 

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, 2012, 
assets denominated in U.S. dollars were 1.1% (2011 – 1.1%) of total 
assets and U.S. dollar liabilities were 1.2% (2011 – 1.2%) of total 
liabilities. Currencies other than U.S. dollars are not bought or sold 
other than to meet specific customer needs and, therefore, the Bank 
has no exposure to currencies other than U.S. dollars.

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 
and deviations from policy are reported regularly to ALCO and 
quarterly to the Board. 

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

57

 
liquidity and funding risk 

Liquidity risk is the risk that CWB cannot meet a demand for cash or fund its financial obligations in a cost efficient or timely manner as they 
become due. These financial obligations can arise from withdrawals of deposits, debt maturities, and commitments to provide credit. 

Risk Overview
CWB maintains a sound, prudent and conservative approach to 
managing exposure to liquidity risk, including targeting a contingency 
planning horizon under slightly stressed and/or severe operating 
conditions that may be caused by Bank-specific or market-wide 
stress scenarios. The contingency planning horizon and related 
liquidity and funding management strategies comprise an integrated 
liquidity risk management program designed to ensure that CWB 
maintains liquidity risk within an appropriate threshold.

CWB’s key risk mitigation strategies include the maintenance of:

•	 an appropriate balance between the level of risks CWB undertakes 
and the corresponding costs of risk mitigation that consider the 
potential impact of extreme but plausible events;

•	 broad funding access, including preserving and growing a reliable base 
of core deposits and continual access to diversified sources of funding;

•	 a comprehensive group-wide liquidity contingency plan that is 

supported by a pool of unencumbered marketable securities that 
would provide assured access to liquidity in a crisis; and

•	 the maintenance of a liquidity position to manage current and 
future liquidity requirements while also contributing to the 
flexibility, safety and soundness of the Bank under times of stress. 

Refer to the Deposit section and Liquidity Management section on 
pages 36 and 38, respectively, for additional information.

Risk Governance
Liquidity management is centralized to better facilitate the effective 
management of liquidity risk on a group-wide basis. The Board 
annually approves asset liability policies and delegates liquidity 
risk authorities to senior management. The Board is responsible for 
oversight of the liquidity policies and also reviews, on a regular basis, 
reporting on CWB Group’s liquidity position, status and trends. 

ALCO annually reviews and endorses the liquidity management 
policies and provides strategic direction and primary management 
oversight for the treasury management function. Treasury actively 
monitors liquidity risk with strong support from senior management. 

Risk Management
CWB has comprehensive Asset Liability Management policies that 
cover key aspects of liquidity risk management. The key elements of 
managing liquidity risk for CWB include the following:

•	 Policies – Liquidity risk management policies establish targets for 

minimum liquidity, set the monitoring regime, and define authority 
levels and responsibilities. Policies are reviewed at a minimum 
annually by ALCO and the Board. Limit setting establishes 
acceptable thresholds for liquidity risk.

•	 Monitoring – Trends and behaviours regarding how clients manage 
their deposits and loans are monitored to determine appropriate 
liquidity levels. Active monitoring of the external environment 
is performed using a wide range of sources and economic 
barometers.

•	 Measurement and modeling – The Bank’s liquidity model 

measures and forecasts cash inflows and outflows, including any 
cash flows related to applicable off-balance sheet activities over 
various risk scenarios. 

•	 Reporting – Treasury oversight of all significant liquidity risks that 

support analysis, risk measurement, stress testing, monitoring and 
reporting to both ALCO and the Board.

•	 Stress testing – CWB performs liquidity stress testing on a regular 
basis to evaluate the potential effect of both industry (macro) 
and Bank-specific (micro) disruptions on the Bank’s liquidity 
position. Liquidity stress tests consider the effect of changes 
in funding assumptions, depositor behaviour and the market 
behaviour of liquid assets. Industry standard stress tests are also 
completed as required by regulators and rating agencies. Stress 
test results are reviewed by ALCO and are considered in making 
liquidity management decisions. Liquidity stress testing has many 
purposes, including, but not limited to:

•	 helping the Board and senior management to understand the 
potential behavior of various positions on the Bank’s balance 
sheet in circumstances of stress; and,

•	 facilitating the development of effective risk mitigation and 

contingency plans.

•	 Contingency planning – A liquidity contingency plan is maintained 
that specifies the desired approaches for analyzing and responding 
to actual and potential liquidity events. The plan outlines an 
appropriate governance structure for the management and 
monitoring of liquidity events, processes for effective internal and 
external communication, and identifies potential countermeasures 
to be considered at various stages of an event. 

•	 Funding diversification – The Bank actively manages the 

diversification of its deposit liabilities by source, type of depositor, 
instrument and term. Supplementary funding sources include 
securitization and whole loan sales. 

•	 Core liquidity – The Bank maintains a pool of highly liquid, 

unencumbered assets that can be readily sold, or pledged to 
secure borrowings, under stressed market conditions or due to 
company specific events. 

The Bank for International Settlements (BIS) liquidity regulations 
described in the document “International Framework for Liquidity  
Risk, Measurement, Standards and Monitoring” 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. BIS is currently expected to introduce the LCR 
effective January 1, 2015 and the NSFR effective January 1, 2018.

58

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

Contractual Obligations
CWB enters into contracts in the normal course of business that give 
rise to commitments of future minimum payments that affect the 
liquidity position. 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 13, 16, 20 and 
28 of the consolidated financial statements, the following contractual 
obligations are outstanding at October 31, 2012:

table 26 – contractual obligations 
($ ThOUSANDS)

Lease commitments

Purchase obligations for capital expenditures

october 31, 2012

October 31, 2011

within 1 

year

1 to 3

years

4 to 5

years

more than

5 years

$ 

$ 

$ 

10,839 

$ 

20,709 

$ 

14,653 

$ 

21,649 

$ 

 875 

11,714 

12,199 

$ 

$ 

 1,870 

22,579 

21,907 

$ 

$ 

 1,620 

16,273 

18,580 

$ 

$ 

 810 

22,459 

23,745 

$ 

$ 

total

67,850 

 5,175 

73,025 

76,431 

Credit Ratings
CWB’s ability to efficiently access unsecured funding on a cost-
effective basis is partially dependent upon the Bank maintaining 
satisfactory credit ratings. Management believes the maintenance 
of satisfactory credit ratings with a stable outlook will increase the 
breadth of clients and investors able to participate in CWB’s deposit 
and debt offerings, while also lowering the Bank’s overall cost of capital. 

Credit ratings are largely determined by the quality of earnings, 
the adequacy of capital and the effectiveness of risk management 
programs. There can be no assurance that CWB’s credit ratings and 

the corresponding outlook will not be changed, potentially resulting 
in adverse consequences for the Bank’s funding capacity or access  
to capital markets. Changes in credit ratings may also affect the 
ability and/or the cost of establishing normal course derivative or 
hedging transactions. 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.

The following table summarizes the credit ratings issued for CWB, as well as the corresponding rating agency outlook at October 31, 2012:

table 27 – creDit ratings 
As at October 31, 2012 (Unchanged from October 31, 201 1)

DBRS Limited 

A (low)

BBB (high)

Long-term senior debt and deposits

Subordinated debentures

Outlook

stable

capital risk

Capital risk is the risk that CWB has insufficient capital resources, in either quantity or quality, to support strategic initiatives and current  
or planned operations. 

Risk Governance
The Board annually approves the regulatory capital plan, 
Internal Capital Adequacy Assessment Process (ICAAP) and 
capital management policies. ALCO is responsible for capital 
risk management. Under the leadership of the CFO, senior 
representatives within Finance, Group Risk Management and the 
Credit Analytics departments are the key representatives comprising 
the ICAAP core team, which is closely supported by other key 
departments, including Treasury.

Risk Overview
CWB follows three main principles to facilitate the effective 
management of capital risk:

•	 Capital management involves a dynamic and ongoing process to 
determine, allocate and maintain appropriate amounts of capital. 

•	 The “optimal” amount of capital must consider regulatory and 

economic capital requirements, as well as the expectation of CWB 
shareholders and other stakeholders.

•	 The objective of capital management is to ensure:

•	 Capital is, and will continue to be, adequate to maintain 

confidence in the safety and stability of the institution while 
also complying with required regulatory standards;

•	 CWB has the capability to access appropriate sources of capital 

in a timely and cost-effective manner; and, 

•	 Return on capital is sufficient to support projected business 

growth and satisfy the expectations of investors.

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

59

 
 
Risk Management:
The following are key elements of capital risk management:

•	 The regulatory capital plan, inclusive of the capital management 
policy and three-year capital projections, are completed at least 
annually. 

•	 Consolidated forecast models are used to analyze the likely capital 
impact of projected operations, stress testing and/or significant 
transactions.

•	 Capital ratios are reported to senior management and the Board 

on a monthly basis, with additional analysis and discussion 
provided in the quarterly reports of the CFO.

operational risk

•	 A robust process is in place to calculate regulatory capital, risk-

weighted assets under the Standardized Approach and regulatory 
capital ratios; results are reviewed by knowledgeable and senior 
individuals within the Bank. The lead-up to implementation of 
Basel III capital requirements was supported by active capital 
management and quarterly updates for the Board, as well as 
investors and other stakeholders. 

For additional information, please refer to the Capital Management 
section of this MD&A.

Operational risk is the risk of loss resulting from human error, inadequate or failed processes, systems or controls, or external events. 
A subset of operational risk is people risk, which is the risk that CWB is not able to retain and attract sufficient qualified resources to 
implement its strategies and/or achieve its objectives.

Risk Overview
Operational risk is inherent in all business activities including 
banking, trust, wealth management and insurance operations, and 
is embedded in processes that support the management of other 
risks such as credit, liquidity, market, capital and reputational risk. Its 
impact can be financial loss, loss of reputation, loss of competitive 
position, regulatory penalties, or failure in the management of other 
risks, such as credit or liquidity risk. CWB is exposed to operational 
risk from internal business activities, external threats and outsourced 
business activities. While operational risk cannot be completely 
eliminated, proactive operational risk management is a key strategy 
to mitigate this risk. The primary financial measure of operational risk 
is actual losses incurred. CWB incurred no material losses related to 
operational risk in 2011 or 2012.

The Basel II regulatory framework requires that certain amounts 
of capital be allocated to mitigate operational risk. Under Basel II, 
CWB uses the Standardized Approach to measure operational risk. 
CWB has a group-wide Operational Risk Management Framework 
to ensure that all staff understand their responsibilities with respect 
to operational risk management. The Operational Risk Management 
Framework encompasses a common language of risk coupled 
with group-wide programs and methodologies for identification, 
measurement, control, and management of operational risk.

With oversight by the Board and senior management, Group Risk 
Management is responsible for the continual enhancement of the 
Operational Risk Framework and the ongoing evolution of CWB’s 
approach to operational risk management.

Risk Governance
Business and support areas are fully accountable for the 
management and control of significant operational risks to which 
they are exposed.

ALCO has oversight responsibility for operational risk with support 
from CWB’s Operations Committee and the Risk Committees of 
subsidiary companies. Where a subsidiary company does not have 
a Risk Committee, support for operational risk management is 
provided by the senior management of that company.

The Board has ultimate oversight and approves the Group’s 
Operational Risk Management Framework with support from the 
various Board Committees.

Risk Management
Strategies and factors that assist with the effective management  
of operational risk include, but are not limited to:

•	 a knowledgeable and experienced management team committed 
to sound management practices and the promotion of a highly 
ethical culture;

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

effective risk management reporting;

•	 a flat organization structure with management close to their 

respective operations, which helps to facilitate effective internal 
communication; 

•	 organizational surveys on employee engagement and corporate 
culture (including CWB’s ongoing participation in the 50 Best 
Employers in Canada survey);

•	 communication of the importance of effective risk management 

to all levels through a combination of training and policy 
implementation; and,

•	 management that is very engaged with promoting the Bank’s 

operational risk tolerance and appetite.

key elements of the Operational Risk Management Framework include:

•	 Enterprise–wide Definitions of Operational Risk – CWB 

incorporates standard risk terms and certain key operational risk 
definitions as part of its Risk Assessment Policy;

•	 Risk Assessments – risk control self-assessments are utilized 
throughout CWB with the objective to proactively identify the 
exposures to key operational risks and assess whether appropriate 
internal controls are in place to mitigate these risks. The 
probability of negative outcomes and estimates of the resulting 
impacts are measured against internal controls. Action plans may 
result where additional strategies are identified to reduce risk 
exposure; 

•	 Operational Risk Reporting – loss data monitoring is important 
to maintain the Bank’s awareness of identified operational risks 
and to assist management in taking constructive action to reduce 
exposures to future losses. A centralized reporting system is used 
to monitor and report on internal and external operational risk loss 
events to senior management and the Audit Committee; 

60

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

•	 implementation of policies and procedural controls appropriate to 
address identified risks (including segregation of duties and other 
checks and balances);

•	 adoption of the COSO (Committee of Sponsoring Organizations 

of the Treadway Commission) for Smaller Business framework for 
internal control assessment;

•	 ongoing enhancements to fraud prevention processes and policies; 

•	 human resource policies and processes to ensure staff are 

adequately trained in the tasks for which they are responsible; 

•	 ongoing succession planning;

•	 a Regulatory Compliance department focused on key regulatory 
compliance areas such as privacy, anti-money laundering, anti-
terrorist financing and consumer regulations;

•	 use of technology that incorporates automated systems with built-

•	 established “whistleblower” processes and employee codes of 

in controls;

conduct;

•	 maintenance of a group-wide outsourcing risk management 

program;

•	 at least annual assessment and benchmarking of the amount and 

type of business insurance to ensure coverage is appropriate;

•	 effective project management processes supported by a 

designated committee comprised of representatives of senior 
management; and,

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

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 clients and could 
expose CWB to litigation and/or regulatory action. Responsibility

for governance and management of reputation risk falls to all CWB 
employees, including senior management and members of the Board. 
All directors, officers and employees have a responsibility to conduct 
their activities in accordance with the CWB Group’s personal 
conduct policies and in a manner that minimizes reputational risk. 
In addition to members of senior management, the Legal, Strategy 
and Communications, and Regulatory Compliance departments are 
particularly involved in the management of reputation risk.

regulatory risk
The businesses operated by CWB and its affiliates 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 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 intensity 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, an increase in the volume 
of regulation, more frequent data and information requests from 
regulators, and shorter implementation time frames for regulatory 
requirements, including the Basel III capital and liquidity standards. 
Certain regulations may also impact CWB’s ability to compete 
against both non-OSFI and other 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 and the active involvement of senior 
management. Notwithstanding the additional resources, the volume, 
pace and implementation of new and amended regulations and 
standards increases the risk of unintended non-compliance.

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. 

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 on prospective reinsurers and only purchases 
coverage from a list of reviewed and approved companies. 

Canadian Direct is exposed to regulatory risk as the insurance 
business is regulated by both federal and provincial authorities. This 
risk is managed mainly by monitoring current developments and 
actively participating in relevant bodies and associations in order to 
contribute Canadian Direct’s perspectives on regulations.

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

61

ability to attract and retain emPloyees
Competition for qualified employees is intense reflecting the 
recruitment needs of other financial services companies and those 
outside of the financial industry. The goal is to continually retain and 
attract qualified employees, but there is no assurance that CWB will 
be able to do so. 

information systems and technology
CWB is highly dependent upon information technology and 
supporting infrastructure, such as voice, data and network access. 
Various third parties provide key components of the infrastructure 
and applications. Disruptions in the Bank’s information technology 
and infrastructure, 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 Group 
to conduct regular business and/or deliver products and services to 
customers. In addition, CWB currently has a number of significant 
technology projects underway, including the replacement of its 
core banking system (expected to be completed in 2015), which 
further increases risk exposure related to information systems and 
technology. 

adeQuacy of the bank’s risk  
management framework
The Risk Management Framework is made up of various processes 
and strategies for managing risk exposure. Given its structure and 
scope of its operations, CWB is primarily subject to credit, market 
(mainly interest rate and foreign exchange), liquidity, operational, 
reputation, regulatory, insurance, strategic, legal, environmental, 
and other risks. There can be no assurance that the framework to 
manage risks, including the framework’s underlying assumptions and 
models, will be effective under all conditions and circumstances. If 
the risk management framework proves ineffective, the Bank could 
be materially affected by unexpected financial losses and/or other 
harm.

changes in accounting standards  
and accounting Policies and estimates
The International Accounting Standards Board continues to change 
the financial accounting and reporting standards that govern the 
preparation of CWB’s financial statements. These types of changes 
can be significant and may materially impact how CWB records and 
reports its financial condition and results of operations. Where CWB 
is required to retroactively apply a new or revised standard, it may be 
required to restate prior period financial statements.

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.

other risk factors
In addition to the risks described above, other risk factors,  
including those below, may adversely affect CWB’s businesses  
and financial results. 

general business and economic conditions
CWB primarily operates in Western Canada. As a result, its 
earnings are largely impacted by the general business and economic 
conditions of the four western provinces. Several factors that could 
impact general business and economic conditions in the Bank’s 
core markets include, but are not limited to: changes in short-
term and long-term interest rates; energy and other commodity 
prices; inflation; exchange rates; levels of consumer, business and 
government spending; levels of consumer, business and government 
debt; consumer confidence; real estate prices; and, adverse global 
economic events and/or elevated economic uncertainties. 

leVel of comPetition
CWB’s performance is impacted by the intensity of competition  
in the markets in which it operates. Each of CWB’s businesses 
operates in highly competitive markets. Client 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.

accuracy and comPleteness of  
information on clients and counterParties
CWB depends on the accuracy and completeness of information 
about customers and counterparties. In deciding whether to 
extend credit or enter into other transactions with clients and 
counterparties, CWB may rely on information furnished by 
them, including financial statements, appraisals, external credit 
ratings and other financial information. CWB may also rely on the 
representations of clients 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 standard accounting 
practices, 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 
effective 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 successfully 
manage acquisition strategies could have a material adverse impact 
on CWB’s business, financial condition and results of operations.

62

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

uPdated share information
As at November 29, 2012, there were 78,745,223 common shares 
outstanding. Also outstanding were employee stock options, which 
are or will be exercisable for up to 3,435,150 common shares for 
maximum proceeds of $84.2 million. On December 3, 2012, the 
Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.17 per 
common share payable on January 4, 2013, to shareholders of record 
on December 17, 2012. The Board of Directors also declared a cash 
dividend of $0.453125 per Series 3 Preferred Share payable on 
January 31, 2013 to shareholders of record on January 24, 2013.

controls and Procedures
As of October 31, 2012, an evaluation was carried out on the 
effectiveness of the Bank’s disclosure controls and procedures. 
Based on that evaluation, the CEO and CFO have certified that the 
design and operating effectiveness of those disclosure controls and 
procedures were effective.

Also at October 31, 2012, an evaluation was carried out on the 
effectiveness of internal controls over financial reporting to provide 
reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting 
and financial statement compliance with IFRS. Based on that 
evaluation, the CEO and CFO have certified that the design and 
operating effectiveness of internal controls over financial reporting 
were effective.

The foregoing 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 CEO and 
CFO 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, 2012 that 
have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, 
the Bank’s internal control over financial reporting.

This Management’s Discussion and Analysis is dated  
December 3, 2012.

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

63

consoliDateD 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 International Financial Reporting Standards, 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 
Chief Executive Officer 

December 3, 2012

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

64

CWB Group 2012 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, 2012, October 
31, 2011 and November 1, 2010, the consolidated statements 
of income, comprehensive income, changes in shareholders’ 
equity and cash flows for the years ended October 31, 2012 and 
October 31, 2011, 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 
International Financial Reporting Standards, 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 the audit to 
obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated 
financial statements are free from material misstatement.

kPMG LLP 
Chartered Accountants 
Edmonton, Alberta

December 3, 2012

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 Bank’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 Bank’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 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, 2012, 
October 31, 2011, and November 1, 2010, and its consolidated 
financial performance and its consolidated cash flows for the 
years ended October 31, 2012 and October 31, 2011 in accordance 
with International Financial Reporting Standards.

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

65

 
consolidated balance sheets 
($ ThOUSANDS)

assets
cash resources 

Cash and non-interest bearing deposits with financial institutions
Interest bearing 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 equity
deposits 

Payable on demand
Payable after notice
Payable on a fixed date

other

Cheques and other items in transit
Insurance related 
Derivative related 
Securities sold under repurchase agreements  
Other liabilities  

debt  

Debt securities
Subordinated debentures

equity

Preferred shares  
Common shares  
Retained earnings
Share-based payment reserve
Other reserves

total shareholders’ equity

Non-controlling interests  

As at
 october 31, 2012 October 31, 2011  November 1, 2010 

as at

As at

(Note 3)

 $ 

(Note 4)

(Note 5)

(Note 6)

(Note 7)

(Note 8)

(Note 9)

(Note 9)

(Note 10)

(Note 1 1)

(Note 12)

(Note 13)

(Note 14)

(Note 1 1)

(Note 5)

(Note 15)

(Note 16)

(Note 17)

(Note 17)

$ 

 $ 

33,690 
 177,028 
 26,265 
236,983 

 980,200 
 478,622 
 877,278 
 2,336,100 
 – 

 3,352,735 
 10,682,674 
 14,035,409 
 (81,723)
13,953,686 

 86,941
 45,536
 31,956
 57,650
 1,951
 122,466
 346,500 
16,873,269 

685,193 
 3,773,611 
 9,686,033 
14,144,837 

 54,030 
 160,302 
 10 
 70,089 
 239,503
 523,934 

 209,273 
 425,000 
 634,273 

 209,750
 490,218
 733,298 
 22,468 
 9,247 
 1,464,981 

 $ 

 $ 

73,318 
 233,964 
 5,053 
 312,335 

$ 

 $ 

 644,356 
 380,031 
 901,317 
 1,925,704 
 – 

 3,008,545 
 9,356,717 
 12,365,262
 (71,980)
 12,293,282 

 72,674
 45,691
 37,420
 56,734
 – 
 105,301
 317,820 
14,849,141

583,267 
 3,407,590 
 8,403,832 
 12,394,689 

 45,986 
 149,130 
 436 
 – 
 262,185
 457,737 

 89,877 
 545,000 
 634,877 

 209,750
 408,282
 608,848 
 21,884 
 7,849 
 1,256,613 

$ 

 $ 

(Note 19)

105,244   

105,225   
1,361,838    
14,849,141 

 $ 

8,965 
 168,998 
 9,981 
 187,944 

 564,694 
 88,478 
 857,015 
 1,510,187 
 177,954 

 2,479,957 
 8,276,263 
10,756,220
 (81,523)
 10,674,697 

 65,978
 45,562
 43,420
 59,652
 134
 1 16,200
 330,946 
12,881,728 

530,608 
 2,999,599 
 7,177,560 
 10,707,767 

 39,628 
 149,396 
 992 
 – 
 239,474
 429,490 

 202,006 
 315,000 
 517,006 

 209,750
 279,620 
 586,933 
 21,291 
 24,692 
 1,122,286 
105,179
1,227,465 
12,881,728

total equity
total liabilities and equity
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

1,570,225 
16,873,269 

 $ 

 $ 

Allan W. Jackson 
Chair 

66

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

Larry M. Pollock 
Chief Executive Officer

 
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
consolidated statements of income 
FOR ThE YEAR ENDED OCTOBER 31 
($ ThOUSANDS, ExCEPT PER ShARE AMOUNTS)

interest income

Loans
Securities
Deposits with regulated financial institutions

interest expense

Deposits
Debt

net interest income
Provision for credit losses  
net interest income after Provision for credit losses
other income

Credit related
Trust and wealth management services
Insurance, net  
Gains on securities, net
Retail services
Foreign exchange gains
Contingent consideration fair value change  
Other

net interest and other income
non-interest expenses

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

net income before income taxes
income taxes  
net income
Net income attributable to non-controlling interests  
net income attributable to shareholders of the bank
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

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

(Note 7)

(Note 21)

(Note 29)

(Note 24)

(Note 19)

(Note 25)

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

2012 

2011 

$ 

686,534  $ 
43,548      
 2,389 
732,471      

625,048 
44,177 
 4,062 
673,287 

 238,701 
 34,193 
 272,894 
 400,393 
 21,783 
 378,610 

 18,307 
 19,050 
 20,250 
 7,283 
 9,486 
 3,488 
 (12,305)
 6,544 
 72,103 
 450,713 

 141,865 
 36,738 
 42,449 
 1,399 
 222,451 
 228,262 
 56,541 
171,721 
 6,975 
164,746 
 15,208 
149,538 
 72,205 
 76,705 

 269,772 
 28,270 
298,042 
434,429 
 25,107 
 409,322 

 19,705 
 19,065 
 17,353 
12,449 
 9,227 
 3,255 
 (2,489)
 3,345 
 81,910 
 491,232 

 153,844 
 39,502 
42,720 
 500 
236,566 
254,666 
 60,209 
194,457  $ 

 7,052 

187,405  $ 
15,208 
172,197  $ 
76,841 
77,460 

2.24  $ 
2.22 

2.07 
 1.95 

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

67

 
    
 
    
 
 
 
consolidated statements of comPrehensiVe income 
FOR ThE YEAR ENDED OCTOBER 31 
($ ThOUSANDS)

net income
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)

other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax, for the year
comprehensive income for the year
Comprehensive income for the year attributable to:

Shareholders of the Bank
Non-controlling interests

comprehensive income for the year

(1)  Net of income tax of $3,441 (2011 – $4,731).
(2)  Net of income tax of $3,320 (201 1 – $2,093).
(3)  Net of income tax of $500 (2011 – nil).
(4) Net of income tax of $169 (2011 – nil).

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

2012 
194,457  $ 

$ 

2011 
171,721 

 9,580 
 (9,129)
 451 

 1,430 
 (483)
 947 
 1,398 
195,855  $ 

188,803  $ 
 7,052 

195,855  $ 

 (11,710)
 (5,133)
 (16,843)

 – 
 – 
 – 
 (16,843)
154,878 

147,903 
 6,975 
154,878 

$ 

$ 

$ 

68

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

 
 
 
consolidated statements of changes in shareholders’ eQuity 
FOR ThE YEAR ENDED OCTOBER 31 
($ ThOUSANDS)

retained earnings
Balance at beginning of year

Net income attributable to shareholders of the Bank
Dividends - Preferred shares
 - Common shares

Warrants purchased and cancelled  

Balance at end of year
other reserves
Balance at beginning of year

Changes in available-for-sale securities
Changes in derivatives designated as cash flow hedges

Balance at end of year
Preferred shares  
Balance at beginning and end of year
common shares  
Balance at beginning of year

(Note 17)

(Note 17)

(Note 17)

Issued on settlement of contingent consideration
Issued under dividend reinvestment plan
Transferred from share-based payment reserve on the exercise or exchange of options
Issued on exercise of options
Issued on exercise of warrants

Balance at end of year
share-based Payment reserve
Balance at beginning of year

Amortization of fair value of options  
Transferred to common shares on the exercise or exchange of options

(Note 18)

Balance at end of year
total shareholders’ equity
non-controlling interests
Balance at beginning of year

Net income attributable to non-controlling interests
Dividends to non-controlling interests

Balance at end of year
total equity

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

2012 

2011 

$ 

608,848  $ 
 187,405 
 (15,208)
 (47,747)
 – 
 733,298 

 7,849 
 451 
 947 
 9,247 

586,933 
 164,746 
 (15,208)
 (39,177)
 (88,446)
 608,848 

 24,692 
 (16,843)
 – 
 7,849 

 209,750 

 209,750 

 408,282 
 63,399 
 12,252 
 4,432 
1,853 
 – 
 490,218 

 21,884 
 5,016 
 (4,432)
 22,468 
 1,464,981 

 105,225 
 7,052 
 (7,033)
105,244 

$ 

1,570,225  $ 

 279,620 
 – 
 5,941 
 4,009 
 2,996 
 115,716 
 408,282 

 21,291 
 4,602 
 (4,009)
 21,884 
 1,256,613 

 105,179 
 6,975 
 (6,929)
 105,225 
1,361,838 

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

69

 
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
Deferred taxes, net
Gain on securities, net
Other items, net

cash flows from financing activities

Deposits, net
Securities sold under repurchase agreements, net
Common shares issued, net of issuance costs  
Debt securities issued
Debt securities repaid
Debentures issued  
Debentures redeemed  
Dividends
Dividends to non-controlling interests
Warrants purchased and cancelled  

cash flows from investing activities

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

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

Interest and dividends received
Interest paid
Income taxes paid

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

70

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

(Note 17)

(Note 16)

(Note 16)

(Note 17)

2012 

2011 

$ 

194,457 

$ 

171,721 

 25,107 
 17,261 
8,981 
 5,016 
 (3,541)
 (695)
 (12,449)
 24,283 
258,420 

1,750,148 
 70,089 
 14,004 
 226,249 
 (106,855)
 – 
 (120,000)
 (62,955)
 (7,033)
 – 
 1,763,647 

 57,128 
 (4,959,542)
 2,855,832 
 1,711,152 
 (1,685,511)
 (27,586)
 – 
 (2,048,527)
 (26,460)
 32,385 
5,925 

33,690 
 26,265 
(54,030)
5,925 

724,759
 293,871 
 51,923 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

 21,783 
 19,748 
 5,036 
 4,602 
 2,529 
 (11,146)
 (7,283)
 51,352 
 258,342 

 1,686,922 
 – 
 124,653 
 – 
 (112,129)
 300,000 
 (70,000)
 (54,385)
 (6,930)
 (88,446)
 1,779,685 

 (65,414)
 (4,725,843)
 2,095,077 
 2,192,675 
 (1,640,368)
 (19,041)
 177,954 
 (1,984,960)
 53,067 
 (20,682)
32,385 

73,318 
 5,053 
 (45,986)
32,385 

672,271 
 268,272 
 63,034

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

 
 
 
 
 
 
notes to consolidated financial statements 
FOR ThE YEARS ENDED OCTOBER 31, 2012 AND 2011 
($ ThOUSANDS, ExCEPT PER ShARE AMOUNTS)

1.  nature of oPerations and basis of Presentation

a)  reporting entity

e)  basis of consolidation

Canadian Western Bank (CWB or the Bank) is a publicly traded 
Canadian bank headquartered in Edmonton, Alberta. CWB offers a 
diversified range of financial services. 

The consolidated financial statements were authorized for issue by 
the Board of Directors on December 3, 2012.

b)  statement of compliance

These consolidated financial statements of Canadian Western 
Bank have been prepared in accordance with International Financial 
Reporting Standards (IFRS) as issued by the International Accounting 
Standards Board (IASB) and in accordance with subsection 308 (4) 
of the Bank Act and the accounting requirements of the Office of the 
Superintendent of Financial Institutions Canada (OSFI). 

These are the Bank’s first annual financial statements prepared in 
accordance with IFRS, and IFRS 1 – First time Adoption of IFRS has 
been applied. In preparing the opening IFRS consolidated balance 
sheet as at November 1, 2010, the Bank has adjusted amounts 
reported previously in the consolidated financial statements 
prepared in accordance with Canadian Generally Accepted 
Accounting Principles (Canadian GAAP). An explanation of how 
the transition to IFRS has affected the Bank’s consolidated financial 
statements is provided in Note 32.

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.

c)  use of estimates and assumptions

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with IFRS 
requires the Bank 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 consolidated 
financial statements as well as the reported amount of revenues 
and expenses during the period. key areas of estimation where the 
Bank 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, deferred tax assets and liabilities, impairment of available-
for-sale securities and fair value of stock options. Therefore, actual 
results could differ from these estimates.

d)  significant judgments

Information of critical judgments in applying accounting policies that 
have the most significant effect on the amounts recognized  
in the consolidated financial statements are described in the 
following notes:

•	 Impairment of loans (Note 6)

•	 Allowance for credit losses (Note 7)

•	 Derecognition of securitization transactions (Note 16)

•	 Provision for unpaid claims and adjustment expenses (Note 21)

•	 Financial instruments measured at fair value (Note 29)

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 33 for details of the subsidiaries. In the context  
of special purpose entities (SPEs), an SPE is consolidated when the 
substance of the relationship between the SPE and CWB indicates 
that the SPE is controlled by CWB. See Note 19 for details of the SPE.

f)  business combinations

Acquisitions on or after February 1, 2010
Business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition 
method. The cost of an acquisition is measured at the fair value of 
the consideration, including contingent consideration, given at the 
acquisition date. Contingent consideration is considered a financial 
instrument, and as such it is remeasured each period thereafter 
with the adjustment recorded to other income. Acquisition related 
costs are recognized as an expense in the income statement in the 
period in which they are incurred. The acquired identifiable assets, 
liabilities and contingent liabilities are measured at their fair values 
at the date of acquisition. Goodwill is measured as the excess of the 
aggregate of the consideration transferred, including any amount 
of any non-controlling interest in the acquiree, over the net of the 
recognized amounts of the identifiable assets acquired and the 
liabilities assumed.

The Bank elects on a transaction-by-transaction basis whether 
to measure non-controlling interest at its fair value or at its 
proportionate share of the recognized amount of the identifiable net 
assets, at the acquisition date.

Acquisitions prior to February 1, 2010
As part of the transition to IFRS, the Bank elected to restate only 
those business combinations that occurred on or after February 1, 
2010. See Note 32 for details of the transition impact. In respect of 
business combinations prior to February 1, 2010, goodwill represents 
the amount recognized under Canadian GAAP. Under Canadian 
GAAP, business acquisitions were accounted for using the purchase 
method.

g)  functional and foreign currencies

The consolidated financial statements are presented in Canadian 
dollars, which is the Bank’s functional currency. 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 period. 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 equity securities that are included in other 
comprehensive income.

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

71

h)  specific accounting Policies

i)  future accounting changes

The accounting policies set out below have been applied consistently 
to all periods presented in these consolidated financial statements 
and in preparing the opening IFRS balance sheet at November 1, 
2010 for the purposes of the transition to IFRS. 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 

Financial instruments
Cash resources
Securities
Securities purchased under resale agreements and  
securities sold under repurchase agreements
Loans 
Allowance for credit losses
Property and equipment
Goodwill and intangible assets
Insurance related other assets
Derivative financial instruments
Other assets
Deposits
Insurance related other liabilities
Other liabilities
Debt
Capital stock
Share-based payments
Non-controlling interests
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
Transition to IFRS 
Subsidiaries

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 debt.

3.  cash resources

A number of standards and amendments have been issued by the 
IASB, and the following changes may have an impact on the Bank’s 
future financial statements. CWB is currently reviewing these 
standards to determine the impact on the financial statements.

IFRS 9 – Financial Instruments
The IASB deferred the mandatory effective date of IFRS 9 to annual 
periods beginning on or after January 1, 2015. The new standard 
specifies that financial assets be classified into one of two categories 
on initial recognition: financial assets measured at amortized 
cost or financial assets measured at fair value. Gains or losses on 
remeasurement of financial assets measured at fair value will generally 
be recognized in profit or loss. 

IFRS 10 – Consolidated Financial Statements and IFRS 12 – Disclosure of 
Interests in Other Entities
The IASB has issued IFRS 10 and 12, which establish principles for 
the presentation and preparation of consolidated financial statements 
when an entity controls one or more other entities, and new disclosure 
requirements for all forms of interests in other entities. IFRS 10 and 12 
are effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2013. 

IFRS 13 – Fair Value Measurement
The IASB has issued new guidance on fair value measurement and 
disclosure requirements for IFRS. The amendments are effective for 
annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2013.

Amendments to IAS 32 and IFRS 7 – Offsetting Financial  
Assets and Liabilities
In December 2011, the IASB published Offsetting Financial Assets 
and Financial Liabilities and issued new disclosure requirements 
in IFRS 7 – Financial Instruments: Disclosures. The effective date for 
the amendments to IAS 32 – Financial Instruments: Presentation is 
annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2014. The effective 
date for the amendments to IFRS 7 is annual periods beginning 
on or after January 1, 2013. These amendments are to be applied 
retrospectively.

CWB continues to monitor IASB ongoing activity and proposed 
changes to IFRS. Several accounting standards that are in the 
process of being amended by the IASB (i.e. loan impairment, macro-
hedging, leases and insurance) may have a significant impact on the 
Bank’s future consolidated financial statements.

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 2012 Annual Report.

Income and expenses are classified as to source, either securities or 
loans for income, and deposits or debt for expense. Gains on the sale 
of securities, net, and fair value changes in certain derivatives are 
classified to other income.

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, and include highly liquid investments that are readily 
convertible to cash and which are subject to an insignificant risk of 
change in value.

Included in deposits with regulated financial institutions are 
available-for-sale financial instruments reported on the consolidated 
balance sheets at the fair value of $236,983 (October 31, 201 1 
- $233,964 and November 1, 2010 - $168,998), which is $482 
(October 31, 2011 - $815 and November 1, 2010 - $2,104) higher 
than amortized cost.

72

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

 
4.  securities

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, until the security is sold 
or becomes impaired. Interest income from securities, which includes 
amortization of premiums and discounts, is recognized using the 
effective interest method in the consolidated statements of income. 
Dividend income is recognized on the ex-dividend date.

Securities are purchased with the original intention to hold the 
instrument to maturity or until market conditions render alternative 
investments more attractive. Gains and losses realized on disposal 
of securities and adjustments to record any impairment in value are 
included in other income. 

At each reporting date, the Bank assesses whether there is objective 
evidence that securities designated as available-for-sale are 
impaired. Objective evidence that a security is impaired can include 
significant financial difficulty of the issuer, indications that an issuer 

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

will enter bankruptcy or the lack of an active market for a security. In 
addition, for an equity security, a significant or prolonged decline in 
fair value below amortized cost is objective evidence of impairment. 

Impairment losses on available-for-sale securities are recognized by 
reclassifying the cumulative loss recognized in other comprehensive 
income to the income statement as “gains on securities, net”. The 
reclassified amount is the difference between the amortized cost, net 
of any principal repayment and amortization, and the fair value, less 
any impairment previously recognized in net income.

If, in a subsequent period, the fair value of an impaired available-
for-sale debt security increases and the increase can be objectively 
related to an event occurring after the impairment loss was 
recognized in net income, the impairment loss is reversed, with 
the reversal recognized in net income. however, if, in a subsequent 
period, the fair value of an impaired available-for-sale equity security 
increases, the recovery is recognized in other comprehensive income 
until the equity security is sold or redeemed. 

within

1 year

maturities

as at

As at

As at

1 to

3 to

over 5

october 31

October 31

November 1

3 years

5 years

years

2012

2011

2010

securities issued or guaranteed by

Canada

 $ 

673,005 

 $ 

247,119 

 $ 

60,076 

 $ 

 315,350 

 201,179 

 83,211 

 149,009 

 80,061 

 14,649 

 – 

 – 

 6,207 

 $  980,200 

 $  644,356 

 $ 

564,694 

 478,622 

 371,044 

 380,031 

 88,478 

 303,545 

 256,544 

 19,808 

 211,766 

 120,666 

 46,512 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 107,482 

 398,752 

 107,482 

 497,130 

 100,642 

 511,228 

 89,243 

 $  1,209,342 

 $ 

691,105 

 $ 

275,452 

 $ 

160,201 

 $  2,336,100 

 $  1,925,704 

 $ 

1,510,187

A province or municipality

other debt securities

equity securities

Preferred shares

Common shares (1)

total

(1)  Common shares have no maturity date.

The analysis of unrealized gains and losses on securities reflected on the balance sheet is as follows:

as at october 31, 2012

As at October 31, 2011

amortized

unrealized

unrealized

fair

Amortized

Unrealized

Unrealized

cost

gains

losses

Value

Cost

Gains

Losses

Fair 

Value

securities issued or

guaranteed by

Canada

 $  980,024 

 $ 

270 

 $ 

94 

 $  980,200 

 $  645,001 

 $ 

25 

 $ 

670 

 $  644,356 

A province or 

municipality

other debt securities

equity securities

Preferred shares

Common shares

 478,689 

 369,407 

 391,781 

 105,368 

 93 

 1,734 

 8,249 

 4,701 

 160 

 97 

 478,622 

 371,044 

 380,510 

 301,718 

 522 

 2,087 

 1,001 

 260 

 380,031 

 303,545 

 1,278 

 2,587 

 398,752 

 107,482 

 487,818 

 100,614 

 10,448 

 5,718 

 1,136 

 5,690 

 497,130 

 100,642 

total

 $ 2,325,269 

 $ 

15,047 

 $ 

4,216 

 $ 2,336,100 

 $  1,915,661 

 $ 

18,800 

 $ 

8,757 

 $ 1,925,704 

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

73

 
 
securities issued or guaranteed by

Canada

A province or municipality

other debt securities

equity securities

Preferred shares

Common shares

total

As at November 1, 2010

Amortized

Unrealized

Unrealized

Cost

Gains

Losses

Fair

Value

 $  564,833 

 $ 

69 

 $ 

208 

 $  564,694 

 87,755 

 253,132 

 490,497 

 81,574 

 737 

 3,493 

 20,731 

 9,305 

 14 

 81 

 88,478 

 256,544 

 – 

 1,636 

 51 1,228 

 89,243 

$  1,477,791 

 $ 

34,335 

 $ 

1,939 

 $  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 credit spreads and shifts in the interest rate 

curve. Volatility in equity markets also leads to fluctuations in value, 
particularly for common shares. For the year ended October 31, 
2012, the Bank has assessed the securities and, based on available 
objective evidence, nil (2011 – $3,023) impairment charges were 
included in gains on securities, net.

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.

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 original effective interest rate of the loan.  
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. 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 integral to the yield on the loan, net of directly related 
costs, are amortized to interest income using the effective interest 
method. Premiums paid on the acquisition of loan portfolios are 
amortized to interest income using the effective interest method.

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 

6. 

loans
Loans, including leases, are recorded at amortized cost and stated 
net of unearned income, unamortized premiums and allowance 
for credit losses (Note 7). Interest income is recorded using the 
effective interest method.

Loans are determined to be impaired when payments are 
contractually past due 90 days, or where the Bank has commenced 
realization proceedings, or where the Bank is of the opinion that the 
loan should be regarded as impaired based on objective evidence. 
Objective evidence that a loan is impaired can include significant 
financial difficulty of the borrower, default or delinquency of a 
borrower, breach of loan covenants or conditions, or indications that 
a borrower will enter bankruptcy. An exception may be made where 
the Bank 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, a province or a Canadian government 
agency. These loans are classified as impaired when payment is 365 
days in arrears.

74

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

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

as at october 31, 2012

As at October 31, 201 1

gross

net

Gross

Net

gross

impaired

specific

impaired

Gross

Impaired

Specific

Impaired

amount

amount(2)

allowance

loans

Amount

Amount(2)

Allowance

Loans

Consumer and personal

$  2,292,388  $ 

13,404 

$ 

459  $ 

12,945  $  2,018,627  $ 

24,983 

 $ 

1,173 

 $ 

23,810 

Real estate (1)

 5,001,041 

 23,022 

 2,605 

 20,417 

 4,722,018 

 46,638 

 2,516 

 44,122 

Equipment financing

and energy

Commercial

total

collective allowance (3)

net impaired loans after

collective allowance

 2,874,423 

 8,133 

 3,867,557 

 22,281 

 3,570 

 7,745 

 4,563 

 2,502,620 

 14,536 

 3,121,997 

 15,596 

 10,041 

 5,592 

 1,369 

 10,004 

 8,672 

$ 14,035,409  $  66,840 

$ 

14,379 

 52,461  $ 12,365,262  $ 

97,258 

 $ 

10,650 

 86,608 

 (67,344)

  $ 

(14,883)

 (61,330)

 $ 

25,278 

Consumer and personal

Real estate (1)

Equipment financing and energy

Commercial

total

collective allowance (3)

net impaired loans after collective allowance

 As at November 1, 2010

Gross

Net

Gross

Impaired

Specific

Impaired

Amount

Amount(2)

Allowance

Loans

$ 

1,793,181 $  24,534

 $ 

1,288  $ 

23,246

 4,115,560 

 82,799 

 2,141,276 

 28,411 

 2,706,203

 7,956

 4,880 

 10,708 

 2,655

 77,919 

 17,703 

 5,301

$ 10,756,220  $  143,700 

 $ 

19,531 

 124,169 

 (61,992)

 $ 

62,177

(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 $10,462 (October 31, 2011 – $3,241 and November 1, 2010 – $867). The Bank pursues timely realization on foreclosed 

assets and does not use the assets for its own operations.

(3)  The collective allowance for credit risk is not allocated by loan type.

During the year, interest recognized as income on impaired loans totaled $5,094 (2011 – $2,620).

Outstanding impaired loans, net of allowance for credit losses, by provincial location of security, are as follows:

Alberta

British Columbia

Ontario

Saskatchewan

Manitoba

Other

total

collective allowance (1)
net impaired loans after  
collective allowance

as at october 31, 2012

As at October 31, 2011

gross

impaired

amount

specific

allowance

net

impaired

loans

Gross

Impaired

Amount

Specific

Allowance

$ 

36,769 

$ 

9,711 

$ 

27,058 

$ 

53,725 

$ 

5,208 

$ 

 22,629 

 3,081 

 2,309 

 615 

 1,437 

 2,190 

 1,167 

 456 

 203 

 652 

 20,439 

 1,914 

 1,853 

 412 

 785 

 35,762 

 2,170 

 2,809 

 953 

 1,839 

 1,441 

 1,549 

 823 

 328 

 1,301 

$ 

66,840 

$ 

14,379 

 52,461 

$ 

97,258 

$ 

10,650 

Net

Impaired

Loans

48,517 

 34,321 

 621 

 1,986 

 625 

 538 

 86,608 

 (61,330)

 (67,344) 

$ 

(14,883)

$ 

25,278 

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

75

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
 
 
Alberta

British Columbia

Ontario

Saskatchewan

Manitoba

Other

total

collective allowance (1)

net impaired loans after collective allowance 

(1)  The collective allowance for credit risk is not allocated by province.

As at November 1, 2010

Gross

Impaired

Amount

Specific

Allowance

$ 

99,067 

$ 

14,609 

$ 

 38,587 

 1,801 

 2,178 

 364 

 1,703 

$ 

143,700 

$ 

 1,303 

 1,113 

 1,183 

 268 

 1,055 

19,531 

Net

Impaired

Loans

84,458 

 37,284 

 688 

 995 

 96 

 648 

 124,169 

 (61,992)

 $ 

62,177

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, 2012

Residential mortgages

Other loans

As at October 31, 2011

As at November 1, 2010

1 - 30 days

31 - 60 days

61 - 90 days

more than

90 days

14,151  $ 

9,709  $ 

2,628  $ 

375  $ 

 11,698 

 18,090 

 1,566 

 - 

25,849  $ 

27,799  $ 

4,194  $ 

375  $ 

23,970  $ 

16,424  $ 

23,639  $ 

41,871  $ 

1,796  $ 

9,643  $ 

352  $ 

4  $ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

total

26,863 

 31,354 

58,217 

42,542 

75,157

76

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The composition of the Bank’s loan portfolio by geographic region and industry sector is as follows:

october 31, 2012  
($ MILLIONS)

loans to individuals

bc

ab

on

sk

mb

other

total (1)

2012

2011

2010

Composition Percentage

oct. 31

Oct. 31

Nov. 1

Residential mortgages (1) $  1,461 

$ 1,204 

$  407 

$  203 

$ 

Other loans

 64 

 106 

1,525 

 1,310 

 2 

 409 

 13 

 216 

78 

 3 

 81 

$ 

 –  $  3,353 

 24%

 24%

 23%

 1 

 1 

189 

3,542 

 1 

 25 

 2 

 26 

 2 

 25 

loans to businesses

Commercial

Construction 

and real estate (2)

Equipment financing (3)

Energy

 1,178 

 1,849 

 426 

 191 

 107 

 103 

3,854 

 28 

 25 

 26 

 1,471 

 473 

 – 

 1,770 

 1,013 

 342 

 145 

 485 

 – 

3,122 

 4,974 

 1,056 

 262 

 208 

 – 

 661 

 88 

 92 

 – 

 29 

 261 

 – 

3,765 

2,532 

342 

 287 

 393 

10,493 

 27 

 18 

 2 

 75 

 29 

 17 

 3 

 74 

 31 

 16 

 2 

 75 

total loans (4)

$  4,647 

$ 6,284 

$  1,465 

$  877 

$ 

368 

$  394  $  14,035 

 100%

 100%

 100%

composition Percentage

October 31, 2012

October 31, 2011

November 1, 2010

 33%

 33%

 33%

 45%

 46%

 48%

 10%

 10%

 8%

 6%

 6%

 6%

 3%

 3%

 3%

 3%

 2%

 2%

 100%

 100%

 100%

(1)  Includes single- and multi-unit residential mortgages and project (interim) mortgages on residential property.
(2)  Includes commercial term mortgages and project (interim) mortgages for non-residential property.
(3)  Includes securitized leases reported on-balance sheet of $209 (October 31, 2011 – $91 and November 1, 2010 – $199).
(4) This table does not include an allocation of the allowance for credit losses.

7.  allowance for credit losses

An allowance for credit losses is maintained which, in the Bank’s 
opinion, is adequate to absorb credit related impairment losses 
incurred in its loan portfolio. The allowance for credit losses is 
calculated on individual loans (specific allowance) and on groups 
of loans assessed collectively (collective allowance). 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. Losses expected from future events are not recognized.

Specific Allowance
The specific allowance includes all the accumulated provisions for 
losses on identified impaired loans required to reduce the carrying 
value of those loans to their estimated realizable amount. See Note 6 
for the identification process of impaired loans.

If the amount of an impairment loss decreases in a subsequent 
period, and the decrease can be objectively related to an event 
occurring after the impairment was recognized, the specific loan 
impairment allowance is reduced accordingly. The reversal of 
impairment is recognized in the consolidated statements of income 
in provision for credit losses.

Collective Allowance
The collective allowance for credit risk includes provisions for losses 
that have been incurred but have not yet been identified on an 
individual loan or account basis by the Bank. As soon as information 
becomes available which identifies losses on individual loans within 
the collective group, those loans are removed from the group and 
assessed on an individual basis for impairment.

The collective allowance for credit risk is established by taking into 
consideration: 

•	 historical trends in the loss experience during economic cycles;

•	 The current portfolio profile;

•	 historical loss experience in portfolios of similar credit 

risk characteristics;

•	 The estimated period between impairment occurring and the loss 

being identified; and

•	 CWB’s management judgment as to whether current economic 
and credit conditions are such that the actual level of inherent 
losses at the balance sheet date is likely to be greater or less than 
that suggested by historical experience.

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

77

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

specific

allowance

2012

collective

allowance

Specific

total

Allowance

2011

Collective

Allowance

Balance at beginning of year

$ 

10,650 

$ 

61,330 

$ 

71,980 

$ 

19,531 

$ 

61,992 

$ 

Provision for credit losses

Write-offs

Recoveries

 19,093 

 (17,712)

 2,348 

 6,014 

 – 

 – 

 25,107 

 (17,712)

 2,348 

 22,445 

 (33,387)

 2,061 

 (662)

 – 

 – 

balance at end of year

$ 

14,379 

$ 

67,344 

$ 

81,723 

$ 

10,650 

$ 

61,330 

$ 

Total

81,523 

 21,783 

 (33,387)

 2,061 

71,980

8.  ProPerty and eQuiPment

Land is carried at cost. Buildings, equipment and furniture, and 
leasehold improvements are carried at cost less accumulated 
depreciation and impairment.

Depreciation is calculated primarily using the straight-line method 
over the estimated useful life of the asset, as follows: 

Buildings  

Equipment and furniture  

20 years;

3 to 10 years; and

Leasehold improvements  

over the shorter of the
term of the lease and the  
remaining useful life. 

When components of an item of property and equipment have 
different useful lives, they are accounted for as separate items. Gains 
and losses on disposal are recorded in other income in the period of 
disposal. Property and equipment is subject to an impairment review 
if there are events or changes in circumstances which indicate that 
the carrying amount may not be recoverable.

cost

Balance at November 1, 2011

$ 

50,050  $ 

23,439  $ 

55,075  $ 

28,345  $ 

156,909 

leasehold

improvements

land and

buildings

computer

equipment

office

equipment

total

Additions

Disposals

Balance at October 31, 2012

accumulated depreciation and impairment

Balance at November 1, 2011

Depreciation for the period

Disposals

Balance at October 31, 2012

net carrying amount at october 31, 2012

cost

Balance at November 1, 2010

Additions

Disposals

balance at october 31, 2011

accumulated depreciation and impairment

Balance at November 1, 2010

Depreciation for the period

Disposals

Balance at October 31, 2011

$ 

$ 

 9,122 

 – 

 59,172 

 22,122 

 4,251 

 – 

 26,373 

 176 

 – 

 23,615 

 4,975 

 682 

 – 

 5,657 

 14,025 

 – 

 69,100 

 39,240 

 5,827 

 – 

 45,067 

 4,265 

 (92)

 32,518 

 17,898 

 2,561 

 (92)

 20,367 

32,799  $ 

17,958  $ 

24,033  $ 

12,151  $ 

43,618  $ 

22,780  $ 

46,967  $ 

24,571  $ 

 6,432 

 – 

 50,050 

 18,289 

 3,833 

 – 

 22,122 

 659 

 – 

 23,439 

 4,309 

 666 

 – 

 4,975 

 8,133 

 (25)

 55,075 

 33,958 

 5,307 

 (25)

 39,240 

 3,800 

 (26)

 28,345 

 15,402 

 2,522 

 (26)

 17,898 

net carrying amount at october 31, 2011

$ 

27,928  $ 

18,464  $ 

15,835  $ 

10,447  $ 

 27,588 

 (92)

 184,405 

 84,235 

 13,321 

 (92)

 97,464 

86,941 

137,936 

 19,024 

 (51)

 156,909 

 71,958 

 12,328 

 (51)

 84,235 

72,674 

78

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

 
 
 
 
9.  goodwill and intangible assets

Goodwill
On the date of acquisition, goodwill arises on the acquisition of 
subsidiaries and represents the excess of the fair value of the 
purchase consideration, including any amount of any non-controlling 
interest in the acquiree, over the net recognized amounts of 
the identifiable assets, liabilities assumed, including identifiable 
intangible assets. For the purposes of calculating goodwill, fair 
values of acquired assets and liabilities are determined by reference 
to market values or by discounting expected future cash flows to 
present value. This discounting is performed using either market 
rates, or risk-free rates with risk-adjusted expected future cash flows. 

Goodwill is stated at cost less accumulated impairment losses. 

Goodwill is reviewed for impairment annually or more frequently if 
there are indications that impairment may have occurred. Goodwill 
is allocated to cash-generating units for the purpose of impairment 
testing considering the business level at which goodwill is monitored 
for internal management purposes. On this basis, the Bank’s cash-
generating units with goodwill allocated are:

•	 National Leasing Group Inc. (NL);

•	 Canadian Direct Insurance Incorporated (CDI);

•	 Valiant Trust Company (VTC); and

•	 Adroit Investment Management Ltd. (AIM).

Balance at November 1, 2011

Partial ownership reduction

Goodwill impairment

Balance at October 31, 2012

Balance at November 1, 2010

Additions

Goodwill impairment

Balance at October 31, 2011

nl

cdi

Vtc

aim

$ 

35,776 

$ 

3,254 

$ 

3,679 

$ 

2,982 

$ 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 (155)

 – 

total

45,691 

 (155)

 – 

$ 

$ 

35,776 

$ 

3,254 

$ 

3,679 

$ 

2,827 

$ 

45,536 

35,776 

$ 

3,254 

$ 

3,679 

$ 

2,853 

$ 

45,562 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 129 

 – 

 129 

 – 

$ 

35,776 

$ 

3,254 

$ 

3,679 

$ 

2,982 

$ 

45,691

Intangible assets
Intangible assets arise from contractual or other legal rights and 
are recognized separately from goodwill when their fair value can 
be reliably measured. Intangible assets with a finite useful life are 
recorded at cost less any accumulated amortization and impairment 
losses. The assets’ useful lives are confirmed at least annually. 
Certain intangible assets, such as trademarks, have an indefinite useful 
life. These indefinite life intangibles are not amortized but are tested  
for impairment at least annually or more frequently if events or changes 
in circumstances indicate that impairment may have occurred. 

Intangible assets with finite useful lives are reported in other 
expenses on the consolidated statements of income and amortized 
on a straight line basis as follows:

•	 Customer relationships  

10 to 15 years;

•	 Non-competition agreements 

4 to 5 years; and

•	 Other 

3 to 5 years.

cost

Balance at November 1, 2011

Partial ownership reduction

Balance at October 31, 2012

accumulated amortization

Balance at November 1, 2011

Amortization

Balance at October 31, 2012

customer non-competition

relationships

agreements

trademarks

other

total

$ 

37,668  $ 

5,731  $ 

2,206  $ 

5,578  $ 

 (153)

 37,515 

 7,856 

 2,569 

 10,425 

 (138)

 5,593 

 2,726 

 1,132 

 3,858 

 (15)

 2,191 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 5,578 

 3,181 

 1,457 

 4,638 

51,183 

 (306)

 50,877 

 13,763 

 5,158 

 18,921 

net carrying amount at october 31, 2012

$ 

27,090  $ 

1,735  $ 

2,191  $ 

940  $ 

31,956 

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

79

 
 
Customer Non-competition

Relationships

Agreements

Trademarks

Other

Total

cost

Balance at November 1, 2010 and 

October 31, 2011

$ 

37,668  $ 

5,731  $ 

2,206  $ 

5,578  $ 

51,183 

accumulated amortization

Balance at November 1, 2010

Amortization

Balance at October 31, 2011

net carrying amount at october 31, 2011

$ 

$ 

 5,162 

 2,694 

 1,594 

 1,132 

 – 

 – 

 1,007 

 2,174 

7,856  $ 

2,726  $ 

 –  $ 

3,181  $ 

 7,763 

 6,000 

13,763 

29,812  $ 

3,005  $ 

2,206  $ 

2,397  $ 

37,420

Impairment
The carrying amounts of the Bank’s intangible assets with finite useful 
lives are reviewed at each reporting date to determine whether there 
is any indication of impairment. If an indication exists, the Bank tests 
for impairment. For goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite 
useful lives, the impairment tests are performed each year. Goodwill 
is allocated to cash-generating units for the purpose of impairment 
testing considering the business level at which goodwill is monitored for 
internal management purposes.

Impairment testing is performed by comparing the estimated recoverable 
amount from a cash-generating unit with the carrying amount of its net 
assets, including attributable goodwill. The recoverable amount of an 
asset is the higher of its fair value less cost to sell, and its value in use. If 
the recoverable amount is less than the carrying value, an impairment loss 
is charged to the consolidated statements of income.

The recoverable amounts for the Bank’s cash-generating units have 
been calculated based on their value in use. Value in use for each 
unit was determined by discounting the future cash flows expected 
to be generated from the continuing use of the cash-generating unit. 
Unless indicated otherwise, value in use was determined similarly 

as in the comparative year. The calculation of the value in use was 
based on the following key assumptions:

•	 Cash flows were projected based on past experience, actual 

operating results and the three year future business plan. Cash 
flows for a further 17-year period were extrapolated using a 
constant growth rate of three percent, which is based on the long-
term forecast Canadian gross domestic product growth rates. The 
forecast period is based on the Bank’s long-term perspective with 
respect to the operation of these cash-generating units. 

•	 A pre-tax discount rate of 10 percent was applied in determining 

the recoverable amounts, which is comprised of a risk-free interest 
rate and a market risk premium. 

The key assumptions described above may change as economic 
and market conditions change. The Bank estimates that reasonable 
possible changes in these assumptions are not expected to cause the 
recoverable amount of the cash-generating units to decline below 
the carrying amount.

No impairment losses on goodwill or intangible assets were 
identified during 2012 or 2011.

10. 

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

as at 

As at 

As at 

october 31 

October 31 

November 1 

2012 

2011 

$ 

33,486 

$ 

31,361 

$ 

 11,369 

 6,686

 5,237 

 872 

 11,011 

 6,196

 6,153 

 2,013 

$ 

57,650

$ 

56,734

$ 

2010 

29,391 

 10,510 

 6,326

 10,949 

 2,476 

59,652

80

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

 
 
11.  deriVatiVe financial instruments

Interest rate, foreign exchange and equity swaps/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 swaps are used to reduce the 
earnings volatility from restricted share units linked to the Bank’s 
common share price. 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.

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;

•	 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;

•	 equity swaps, which are agreements where CWB makes periodic 
interest payments to a counterparty and receives the capital gain/
(loss) plus dividends of a CWB common share; and

•	 equity 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.

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. 

Equity swap transactions are used as hedging devices to control 
risk related to the pay out of restricted share units that have not 
yet vested. The Bank enters into equity swap instruments only 
for its own account and does not act as an intermediary in this 
market. The risk is limited to the amount of an increase in CWB’s 
share price applied on the notional contract amount should the 
counterparty default.

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 
derivatives used in hedging transactions are assessed to determine 
whether they 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 net income. 

Interest income received or interest expense paid on derivative 
financial instruments is accounted for on the accrual basis and 
recognized as interest expense over the term of the hedge contract. 
Premiums on purchased contracts are amortized to interest 
expense over the term of the contract. Accrued interest receivable 
and payable and deferred gains and losses for these contracts are 
recorded in other assets or liabilities as appropriate. 

When a hedging instrument expires or is sold, or when a hedge 
no longer meets the criteria for hedge accounting, any cumulative 
gain or loss existing in other comprehensive income at that time is 
held separately in accumulated other comprehensive income until 
the forecast transaction is eventually recognized in the income 
statement. When a forecasted transaction is no longer expected to 
occur, the cumulative gain or loss that was reported in accumulated 
other comprehensive income is immediately reclassified to the 
income statement.

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 are 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.

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 

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

81

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.

as at october 31, 2012

As at October 31, 2011

notional

amount

replace-

ment

future

credit

credit

risk-

Replace-

risk weighted

Notional

ment

Future

Credit

Credit 

Risk-

Risk Weighted

cost exposure equivalent

balance

Amount

Cost

Exposure Equivalent

Balance

Interest rate swaps

$ 225,000  $ 

154  $ 

 –  $ 

154  $ 

31  $ 

19,400  $ 

 –  $ 

97  $ 

97  $ 

Equity swaps

 15,445 

 1,778 

Foreign exchange contracts

 2,450 

 19 

 40 

 24 

 1,818 

 43 

 363 

 17 

 – 

 6,384 

 – 

 62 

 – 

 64 

 – 

 126 

total

$ 242,895  $ 

1,951  $ 

64  $ 

2,015  $ 

411  $  25,784  $ 

62  $ 

161  $ 

223  $ 

19 

 – 

 53 

72 

Interest rate swaps

Foreign exchange contracts

Equity contracts

total

As at November 1, 2010

Notional

Amount

Replace-

ment

Future

Credit

Credit 

Risk-

Risk Weighted

Cost

Exposure Equivalent

Balance

$  47,550  $ 

 –  $ 

234  $ 

234  $ 

 57,032 

 500 

 132 

 2 

 570 

 30 

 702 

 32 

$  105,082  $ 

134  $ 

834  $ 

968  $ 

49 

 181 

 6 

236

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):

as at october 31, 2012

As at October 31, 2011

favourable contracts unfavourable contracts Favourable Contracts Unfavourable Contracts

Interest rate swaps designated as hedges

$ 225,000  $ 

154  $ 

 –  $ 

 –  $ 

 –  $ 

 –  $ 

 –  $ 

notional

amount

fair

notional

fair

Notional

Fair

Notional

Value

amount

Value

Amount

Value

Amount

Fair

Value

 – 

 – 

Equity swaps designated as hedges

 15,445 

 1,778 

Foreign exchange contracts

Equity swaps designated as hedges

Other forecasted transactions

 1,485 

 – 

 19 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 965 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 (10) 

 3,189 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 3,195 

 (16)

 19,400 

 (420)

 – 

 – 

total

$  241,930  $ 

1,951  $ 

965  $ 

(10)  $ 

3,189  $ 

 –  $  22,595  $ 

(436)

Interest rate swaps not designated as hedges

Foreign exchange contracts

Equity contracts

Embedded derivatives in equity linked deposits

Other forecasted transactions

total

82

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

As at November 1, 2010

Favourable Contracts Unfavourable Contracts

Notional

Amount

Fair

Notional

Value

Amount

Fair

Value

$ 

 –  $ 

 –  $  47,550  $ 

(930)

 51,739 

 132 

 5,293 

 (59)

 500 

 n/a 

 – 

 n/a 

 2 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 (3)

 – 

$  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)

 2012

598 

210

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

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.

as at october 31, 2012

maturity

As at October 31, 201 1

Maturity

1 year or less

more than 1 year

1 Year or Less

More than 1 Year

contractual

contractual

Contractual

Contractual

notional

interest

notional

interest 

Notional

Interest

Notional

Interest

amount

rate

amount

rate

Amount

Rate

Amount

Rate

Interest rate swaps designated  

as hedges (1)

$  225,000 

1.28% $ 

 – 

 –  $ 

Equity swaps designated as hedges (2)

Foreign exchange contracts (3)

 7,494 

 2,450 

Interest rate swaps not

designated as hedges

 – 

 – 

 – 

-

2.39%

 7,951 

2.54%

 – 

 – 

 6,384 

 –  $ 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

  19,400  

 3.39%

total

$  234,944 

$ 

7,951 

$ 

6,384 

$ 

19,400 

Interest rate swaps not designated 

as hedges

Foreign exchange contracts 

Equity contracts 

total 

As at November 1, 2010

Maturity

1 Year or Less

More than 1 Year

Contractual

Contractual

Notional

Amount

Interest

Notional

Interest

Rate

Amount

Rate

$ 

750 

4.19%

$  46,800 

2.73%

57,032 

500 

 – 

 – 

$  58,282 

$  46,800

(1)  The Bank receives interest at a fixed contractual rate and pays interest on the one-month (30-day) Canadian Bankers’ Acceptance rate. Interest rate swaps designated as hedges mature 

between January and October 2013.

(2)  Equity swaps designated as hedges mature between June 2013 and June 2015. Equity swaps are used to reduce the earnings volatility from restricted share units linked to the Bank’s common 

share price. 

(3)  The contractual interest rate is not meaningful for foreign exchange contracts. Foreign exchange contracts mature between November 2012 and July 2013.

During the year, $1,430 net unrealized after tax losses (2011 – nil) 
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 (2011 – 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 the hedged items affect income. During the year, 
$483 net gains after tax amounts (2011 – nil) were reclassified to 
net income.

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

83

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
12.  other assets

Accrued interest receivable

Accounts receivable

Deferred tax asset  

Prepaid expenses

Income taxes receivable

Financing costs(1)

Other

total

(1)  Amortization for the year amounted to $1,703 (201 1 – $1,403).

13.  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 24) 

as at 

As at 

As at 

october 31 

October 31 

November 1 

2012 

2011 

$ 

48,377 

$ 

40,665 

$ 

30,831 

 23,363 

 6,400 

 5,290 

 5,133 

 3,072 

 26,801 

 23,538 

 5,494 

 3,902 

 4,685 

 216 

2010 

39,566 

 45,220 

 19,290 

 7,928 

 293 

 2,910 

 993 

$ 

122,466 

$ 

105,301 

$ 

116,200 

as at october 31, 2012

business and

individuals

government

total

$ 

31,980  $ 

653,213  $ 

685,193 

 2,382,262 

 6,545,876 

 1,391,349 

 3,140,157 

 3,773,611 

 9,686,033 

$ 

8,960,118  $ 

5,184,719  $ 

14,144,837 

As at October 31, 2011

Business and

Individuals

Government

Total

$ 

30,440  $ 

552,827  $ 

583,267 

 2,086,231 

 6,229,158 

 1,321,359 

 2,174,674 

 3,407,590 

 8,403,832 

$ 

8,345,829  $ 

4,048,860  $ 

12,394,689 

As at November 1, 2010

Business and

Individuals

Government

Total

$ 

23,308  $ 

507,300  $ 

530,608 

 1,840,026 

 5,462,231 

 1,159,573 

 1,715,329 

 2,999,599 

 7,177,560 

$ 

7,325,565

$ 

3,382,202

$ 

10,707,767

Payable on demand

Payable after notice

Payable on a fixed date

total

Payable on demand

Payable after notice

Payable on a fixed date

total

Payable on demand

Payable after notice

Payable on a fixed date

total

84

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

 
 
 
 
14. 

insurance related other liabilities

as at 

As at 

As at 

october 31 

October 31 

November 1 

Unpaid claims and adjustment expenses 

(Note 21) 

$ 

86,218  $ 

76,892  $ 

2012 

2011 

Unearned premiums

Due to insurance companies and policyholders

Unearned commissions

total

15.  other liabilities

Accounts payable

Accrued interest payable

Income taxes payable

Deferred tax liability 

Deferred revenue

Leasehold inducements

Acquisition contingent consideration 

Other

total

 71,790 

 1,737 

 557 

 69,584 

 2,087 

 567 

2010 

80,086 

 66,444 

 2,305 

 561 

$ 

160,302  $ 

149,130  $ 

149,396

as at 

As at 

As at 

october 31 

October 31 

November 1 

2012 

2011 

$ 

105,790  $ 

81,523  $ 

 105,728 

 12,386 

 8,897 

 3,068 

 2,966 

 – 

 668 

 101,557 

 2,017 

 9,767 

 2,708 

 3,297 

 61,011 

 305 

2010 

67,770 

 97,929 

 637 

 16,665 

 3,437 

 2,446 

 48,991 

 1,599 

$ 

239,503  $ 

262,185  $ 

239,474

 (Note 24) 

 (Note 29) 

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

85

 
 
16.  debt 

a)  debt securities

The Bank securitizes leases to third parties. These securitizations do 
not qualify for derecognition as the Bank continues to be exposed 
to certain risks associated with the leases, including an obligation 
to remit contractual cash flow payments regardless of whether the 
underlying cash flows are collected from lessees, and therefore has 
not transferred substantially all of the risk and rewards of ownership. 
As the leases do not qualify for derecognition, the assets are not 
derecognized from the balance sheet and a securitization liability is 
recognized for the cash proceeds received. 

The carrying amount of the liability as at October 31, 2012  
was $209,273 (October 31, 2011 – $89,877 and November 1, 2010 – 
$202,006), and the associated carrying amount of the lease assets 

recorded on the balance sheet was $237,698 (October 31, 2011 – 
$91,293 and November 1, 2010 – $199,097), which does not include 
an allocation of the allowance for credit losses.

b)  subordinated debentures

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)

5.571% (2)

5.950% (3)

5.070% (4)

5.426% (5)

total

 Earliest Date 

as at 

As at 

As at 

 Maturity 

Redeemable 

october 31 

October 31 

November 1 

Date

 by CWB at Par

 2012

 2011

 November 30, 2020 

 November 30, 2015 

$ 

300,000  $ 

300,000  $ 

 March 21, 2022 

 March 22, 2017 

 June 27, 2018 

 June 28, 2013 

 March 21, 2017 

 March 22, 2012 

 November 21, 2015 

 November 22, 2010 

 75,000 

 50,000 

 – 

 – 

 75,000 

 50,000 

 120,000 

 – 

$ 

425,000

$ 

545,000

$ 

 2010

 – 

 75,000 

 50,000 

 120,000 

 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 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.

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

Bankers’ Acceptance rate plus 302 basis points. 

(4) 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 155 basis points. Of the $125,000 debentures issued, $5,000 were held by Canadian Direct Insurance Incorporated, a wholly owned subsidiary, and had been 
eliminated on consolidation. On March 22, 2012, these conventional debentures were redeemed by the Bank.

(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.

86

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

 
 
 
17.  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

•	 25,000,000 first preferred shares without nominal or par value, 

Issued and fully paid:

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 19). 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.

 2012

number of

shares

amount

2011

Number of

Shares

Amount

Preferred shares – series 3

Outstanding at beginning and end of year

 8,390,000  $ 

209,750 

 8,390,000  $ 

209,750 

common shares

Outstanding at beginning of year

Issued on settlement of contingent consideration 

(Note 29(c))

Issued on exercise or exchange of options

Issued under dividend reinvestment plan

Transferred from share-based payment reserve on 

 75,461,981 

 2,256,868 

 573,005 

 450,958 

exercise or exchange of options

Issued on exercise of warrants

Outstanding at end of year

share capital

 408,282 

 66,641,362 

 279,620 

 63,399 

 1,853 

 12,252 

 – 

 341,541 

 213,654 

 – 

 2,996 

 5,941 

 4,009 

 115,716 

 – 

 – 

 4,432 

 – 

 – 

 8,265,424 

 78,742,812 

 490,218 

 75,461,981 

 408,282 

$ 

699,968 

$ 

618,032

During the year, the Bank settled the contingent consideration related 
to a 2010 subsidiary acquisition with the issuance of 2,256,868 
CWB common shares valued at $63,399, net of issuance costs.

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 19), 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)  dividends

The following dividends were declared by the Bank’s Board of Directors and paid by the Bank during the year:

$0.62 per common share (2011 – $0.54)

$1.81 per preferred share - Series 3 (2011 – $1.81)

total

Subsequent to October 31, 2012, the Board of Directors of the Bank 
declared a dividend of $0.17 per common share payable on January 
4, 2013 to shareholders of record on December 18, 2012 and a 
dividend of $0.453125 per Series 3 preferred share – Series 3 payable 
on January 31, 2013 to shareholders of record on January 24, 2013. 
With respect to these dividend declarations, no liability was recorded 
in the balance sheet at October 31, 2012.

b)  Preferred shares

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 thereafter, holders of Series 3 Preferred Shares will, 

2012 

47,749  $ 

 15,208 

62,957  $ 

2011 

39,177 

 15,208 

54,385 

$ 

$ 

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.

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

87

 
 
 
 
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 

c)  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 Bid

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, 201 1 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, 201 1 in conjunction with the warrant redemption discussed 
above. During 201 1, the Bank purchased and cancelled 1,000,000 
warrants at an aggregate cost of $15,985, which was charged to 
retained earnings.

d)  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 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.

2012 

2011 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 13,471,611 

 (8,265,424)

 (4,206,187)

 (1,000,000)

 – 

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, 450,958 
(2011 – 213,654) common shares were issued under the plan from 
the Bank’s treasury at a 2% discount (2011 – 2%).

e)  common share normal course issuer bid (ncib)

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 expired November 1, 2012. No common shares were 
purchased under this NCIB.

88

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

18.  share-based Payments

a)  stock options

Stock options are accounted for using the fair value method. The 
estimated value is recognized over the applicable vesting period 
as an increase to both salary expense and share-based payment 
reserve. When options are exercised, the proceeds received and the 
applicable amount in share-based payment reserve are credited to 
common shares.

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

Further details relating to stock options outstanding and exercisable follow:

The Bank has authorized 4,409,773 common shares (2011 – 
4,982,778) for issuance under the share incentive plan. Of the 
amount authorized, options exercisable into 3,441,100 shares (201 1 
– 3,542,072) 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 years of 
date of grant. Outstanding options expire from December 2012 to 
June 2017.

2012

2011

weighted

average

exercise

Price

21.36 

 25.86 

 16.88 

 25.89 

24.51 

number

of options

 3,542,072 

$ 

 1,261,378 

 (1,258,537)

 (103,813)

3,441,100 

$ 

Weighted

Average

Exercise

Price

19.93 

 30.10 

 22.13 

 23.68 

21.36 

Number

of Options

 3,834,433 

$ 

 729,314 

 (943,399)

 (78,276)

 3,542,072 

$ 

 878,890 

$ 

19.31 

 687,570 

$ 

26.45

options outstanding

options exercisable

weighted

average

remaining

number of 

contractual

options

 282,950 

 308,365 

 1,973,989 

 875,796 

 3,441,100 

life (years)

 1.1  $ 

 1.6 

 3.5 

 2.3 

 2.8  $ 

weighted

average

exercise

Price

11.72 

 17.25 

 24.91 

 30.31 

24.51 

weighted

average

exercise

Price

11.72 

 17.25 

 26.06 

 31.18 

19.31

number

of options

 282,950  $ 

 308,365 

 124,000 

 163,575 

 878,890  $ 

range of exercise Prices

$8.58 to $11.76

$16.89 to $21.46

$22.09 to $26.40

$29.42 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 elect to (a) receive shares by delivering cash to the Bank in the 
amount of the option exercise price or (b) 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 1,258,537 (2011 – 943,399) options exercised or 
exchanged, option holders exchanged the rights to 1,133,197 (2011 – 
810,899) options and received 447,665 (2011 – 209,041) shares in 
return under the cashless settlement alternative.

Salary expense of $5,016 (2011 – $4,602) 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 1.1% (2011 – 2.1%), (ii) expected option life of 4.0 (2011 – 
4.0) years, (iii) expected volatility of 31% (2011 – 36%), and (iv) 
expected annual dividends of 2.4% (2011 – 1.8%). Expected volatility 
is estimated by evaluating historical volatility of the share price 
over multi-year periods. The weighted average fair value of options 
granted was estimated at $4.92 (2011 – $7.69) per share.

During the year, $4,432 (2011 – $4,009) was transferred from the 
share-based payment reserve to share capital, representing the 
estimated fair value recognized for 1,258,537 (2011 – 943,399) 
options exercised during the year.

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

89

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 period of three years. Salary expense 
is recognized 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 $7,682 (2011 – $8,351) was 
recognized related to RSUs. As at October 31, 2012, the liability for 
the RSUs held under this plan was $9,336 (2011 – $8,922). At the 
end of each period, the liability and salary expense are adjusted to 
reflect changes in the fair value of the RSUs.

number of rsus

Balance at beginning of year

Granted

Vested and paid out

Forfeited

balance at end of year

c)  deferred share units

2012 

 535,769 

 337,273 

 (263,908)

 (14,679)

 594,455 

2011 

 469,941 

 259,820 

 (183,573)

 (10,419)

 535,769 

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 
$674 (2011 – $1,048) related to the DSUs. As at October 31, 
2012, the liability for DSUs held under this plan was $2,328 (201 1 
– $1,467). At the end of each period, the liability and expense are 
adjusted to reflect changes in the market value of the DSUs.

number of dsus

Balance at beginning of year

Granted

balance at end of year

19.  non-controlling interests

Non-controlling interests are comprised of the following:

CWB Capital Trust

Adroit Investment Management Ltd.

total

CWB Capital Trust
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 with a December 31 year-end. CWB Capital 
Trust, an open-end trust, issued non-voting WesTS and the proceeds 
were used to purchase a senior deposit note from CWB.

Standard Interpretations Committee 12 – Consolidation – Special 
Purpose Entities (SIC 12) requires consolidation of special purpose 
entities (SPEs) when the substance of the relationship between the 
SPE and the reporting entity indicate that the SPE is controlled by 
that entity. CWB Capital Trust qualifies as an SPE that is controlled 
by the Bank under SIC 12 as the Bank retains voting control of CWB 
Capital Trust through the ownership of the Special Trust Securities. 
Accordingly, the Bank consolidates CWB Capital Trust and the 
WesTS issued by CWB Capital Trust under non-controlling interests 

90

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

2012 

 51,463 

 27,298 

 78,761 

2011 

 24,046 

 27,417 

 51,463 

october 31 

October 31 

November 1 

2012 

2011 

2010 

105,000  $ 

105,000  $ 

105,000 

 244 

 225 

 179 

105,244  $ 

105,225  $ 

105,179

$ 

$ 

(2012 and 2011 – $105,000), and the senior deposit note issued by 
CWB is eliminated on consolidation.

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 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, 201 1, 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%.

20.  contingent liabilities and commitments

a)  credit instruments

In the normal course of business, the Bank enters into various 
commitments and has contingent liabilities, which are not reflected 

in the consolidated balance sheets. These items are reported 
below and are expressed in terms of the contractual amount of the 
related commitment.

credit instruments

Guarantees and standby letters of credit

Commitments to extend credit

total

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.

as at 

As at 

As at 

october 31 

October 31 

November 1 

2012 

2011 

2010 

$ 

286,676  $ 

276,323  $ 

261,438 

 5,117,869 

 4,101,250 

 3,375,690 

$ 

5,404,545  $ 

4,377,573  $ 

3,637,128

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 $2,036,003 (October 
31, 2011 - $1,590,678 and November 1, 2010 - $1,468,325) and 
recently authorized but unfunded loan commitments of $3,081,866 
(October 31, 2011 - $2,510,572 and November 1, 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 conditions precedent. It is also usual practice to include 

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

91

 
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. The leases typically run 10 to 15 
years, with an option to renew the lease for an additional 5 years. 

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.

Minimum future lease commitments for each of the five succeeding years and thereafter are as follows:

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018 and thereafter

total

c)  guarantees

$ 

$ 

10,839 

 10,390 

 10,319 

 8,203 

 6,450 

 21,649 

67,850

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.

Prior to January 1, 2012, the Bank issued both personal and business 
credit cards through an agreement with a third party card issuer. 
The Bank 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 under the initial agreement was 
nil (October 31, 2011 - $12,996 and November 1, 2010 - $13,153), 
and the balance outstanding was nil (October 31, 2011 - $2,933 
and November 1, 2010 - $2,927). During 2012, the Bank cancelled 
the aforementioned agreement to issue business credit cards and 
entered into a new business credit card agreement with another third 
party issuer. Outstanding balances related to this new agreement are 
reported on the balance sheet in “other loans”.

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.

21. 

insurance oPerations

Insurance Contracts – Classification
Contracts where CWB accepts significant insurance risk from 
another party by agreeing to compensate the policyholder or other 
beneficiary if a specified uncertain future event adversely affects 
the policyholder or other beneficiaries are classified as insurance 
contracts. 

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. Insurance premiums are shown before 
deduction of commissions and are gross of any taxes and dues levied 
on premiums.

92

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

Policy acquisition costs are those expenses incurred in the 
acquisition of insurance business. Acquisition costs comprise 
advertising and marketing expenses, insurance advisor salaries and 
benefits, broker commissions, 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. 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.

Liability Adequacy Test
At the end of each reporting period, liability adequacy tests are 
performed to ensure the adequacy of the contract liabilities, net of 
related deferred policy acquisition costs (DPAC). In performing these 
tests, current best estimates of future contractual cash flows and 
claims handling and administration expenses, as well as investment 
income from the assets supporting the provisions, are used. Any 
deficiency is immediately charged to profit or loss by writing off 
DPAC and, if required, establishing a provision for losses arising from 
liability adequacy tests (the premium deficiency).

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 but not been settled 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 process of determining the provision for unpaid claims and 
adjustment expenses necessarily involves risks that the actual 
results will deviate from the best estimates made. These risks vary 
in proportion to the length of the estimation period and the volatility 
of each component comprising the liabilities. To recognize the 
uncertainty in establishing these best estimates and to allow for 
possible deterioration in experience, actuaries are required to include 
explicit provisions for adverse deviation in assumptions for asset 
defaults, reinvestment risk, claims development and recoverability of 
reinsurance balances. 

Net earned premiums

Commissions and processing fees

Net claims and adjustment expenses

Policy acquisition costs

insurance revenues, net

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 
expenses are recorded in other assets separately from estimated 
amounts payable to policyholders. Amounts recoverable from 
reinsurers are estimated in a manner consistent with the liabilities 
associated with the reinsured policies.

These assets consist of short-term balances due from reinsurers, 
as well as longer term receivables that are dependent on the 
expected claims and benefits arising under the related reinsured 
insurance contracts. Amounts recoverable from or due to reinsurers 
are measured consistently with the amounts associated with the 
reinsured insurance contracts and in accordance with the terms 
of each reinsurance contract. Reinsurance liabilities are primarily 
premiums payable for reinsurance contracts and are recognized as an 
expense when due.

Reinsurance assets are assessed for impairment on an annual 
basis. If there is objective evidence that the reinsurance asset is 
impaired, the carrying amount of the reinsurance asset is reduced 
to its recoverable amount and the impairment loss is recognized in 
the income statement. Objective evidence that a reinsurance asset 
is impaired is gathered using observable data about the following 
criteria: 

•	 Significant financial difficulty of the reinsurer;

•	 A breach of contract, such as default or delinquency in payments; 

and

•	 Observable data indicating that there is a measurable decrease in 
the estimated future cash flow from the reinsurance asset since its 
initial recognition.

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.

2012 

2011 

$ 

123,204 

$ 

117,632 

 1,855 

 (83,167)

 (24,539)

 1,869 

 (74,734)

 (24,517)

$ 

17,353 

$ 

20,250 

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. 

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

93

 
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. 

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

2012 

$ 

64,543 

$ 

 84,762 

 (1,595)

 (73,415)

 74,295 

 5,237 

 6,686 

2011 

62,81 1 

 75,694 

 (960)

 (73,002)

 64,543 

 6,153 

 6,196 

unpaid claims and adjustment expenses, net, end of year

$ 

86,218 

$ 

76,892

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 2.78% (2011 – 2.76%). 

however, that rate was reduced by a 0.50% (2011 – 0.75%) 
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 $572 (2011 – $790) 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

$ 

65,964  $ 

20,254  $ 

63,371  $ 

Reinsurers’ share of unpaid claims and adjustment expenses

Unearned premiums

 4,200 

 48,598 

 1,037 

 23,192 

 6,132 

 47,922 

2012

2011

automobile

home

Automobile

home

13,521 

 21 

 21,662

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 (2011 – $300,000) is 
obtained to protect against certain catastrophic losses. Retention on 
catastrophic events is $5,000 (2011 – $2,000), on property per risk 
events is $1,000 (2011 – $1,000) and on casualty events is $2,000 
(201 1 – $2,000). 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 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, 2012, $5,237 (2011 – $6,153) 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.

94

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

 
 
The amounts shown in other income are net of the following amounts relating to reinsurance ceded to other insurance companies. 

Premiums earned reduced by

Claims incurred reduced by 

22.  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 

Province
Alberta 

rate filing
File and approve or 
File and use

2012 

$ 

9,352  $ 

 1,912 

2011 

8,898 

 102 

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 authority that regulates automobile insurance rates, in the 
province in which Canadian Direct is writing that business, is listed 
below. Automobile direct written premiums in Alberta totaled 
$43,100 in 2012 (2011 – $40,800) and represented 50% (201 1 – 
49%) of direct automobile premiums written.

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, 2012 and October 31, 2011, the Bank had no such 
regulatory asset or liability.

23.  emPloyee future benefits

All employee future benefits related to the Bank’s group retirement 
savings and employee share purchase plans are recognized in the 
periods during which services are rendered by employees. The Bank’s 

24. 

income taxes
The Bank follows the deferred method of accounting for income 
taxes whereby current income taxes are recognized for the estimated 
income taxes payable for the current period. Deferred 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. Deferred tax assets 
and liabilities are measured using enacted or substantively enacted 

The provision for income taxes consists of the following:

Consolidated statements of income

Current

Deferred

Shareholders’ equity

Deferred tax expense related to:

Unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities

Gains (losses) on derivatives designated as cash flow hedges

total

contributions to the group retirement savings plan and employee 
share purchase plan totaled $10,932 (2011 – $10,217).

tax rates anticipated to apply to taxable income in the years in 
which those temporary differences are anticipated to be recovered 
or settled. Changes in deferred taxes related to a change in tax rates 
are recognized in income in the period of the tax rate change. All 
deferred tax assets and liabilities are expected to be realized in the 
normal course of operations.

2012 

2011 

$ 

60,904  $ 

 (695)

 60,209 

67,687 

 (11,146)

 56,541 

 121 

 331 

 452 

$ 

60,661  $ 

 (6,824)

 – 

 (6,824)

49,717

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

95

 
 
 
 
 
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

Contingent consideration fair value change

Other

 2012

2011

$ 

65,090 

 25.6% $ 

61,859 

 27.1%

 (6,744)

 1,271 

 631 

 (39)

 (2.6)

 0.5 

 0.2 

 (0.1)

 (8,849)

 1,236 

 3,310 

 (1,015)

56,541 

 (3.9)

 0.5 

 1.5 

 (0.4)

24.8%

Provision for income taxes and effective tax rate

$ 

60,209 

 23.6% $ 

Deferred tax balances are comprised of the following:

deferred tax assets

Allowance for credit losses

Deferred loan fees

Deferred deposit broker commission

Leasing income

Other temporary differences

deferred tax liabilities

Intangible assets

Other temporary differences

The Bank has approximately $11,140 (2011 – $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.

2012 

2011 

$ 

14,816 

$ 

 8,681 

 (3,962)

 281 

 3,547 

23,363 

$ 

8,164 

$ 

 733 

8,897 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

13,659 

 9,089 

 (3,843)

 1,851 

 2,782 

23,538 

9,736 

 31 

9,767

96

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

 
 
 
 
 
25.  earnings Per common share

Basic earnings per common share is calculated based on the average 
number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted 
earnings per share is calculated based on the treasury stock method, 
which assumes that any proceeds from in-the-money stock options 

The calculation of earnings per common share follows:

or the exercise of warrants on common shares are used to purchase 
the Bank’s common shares at the average market price during 
the period.

numerator

Net income available to common shareholders

$ 

172,197  $ 

149,538 

2012

2011

denominator

Weighted average of common shares outstanding – basic
Dilutive instruments:
Stock options (1)
Warrants (2)

weighted average number of common shares outstanding – diluted

Earnings per common share

Basic
Diluted

 76,840,532 

 72,205,180 

 619,460 
 - 
 77,459,992 

 1,171,801 
 3,328,444 
 76,705,425 

$ 

2.24  $ 
 2.22 

2.07 
 1.95

(1)  At October 31, 2012, the denominator excludes 527,056 (201 1 – 911,449) employee stock options with an average adjusted exercise price of $30.89 (2011 – $30.32) where the exercise 

price, adjusted for unrecognized stock-based compensation, is greater than the average market price.

(2)  All outstanding warrants were redeemed in 201 1.

26.  assets under administration and management
Assets under administration of $7,171,826 (2011 – $9,369,589) and 
assets under management of $855,333 (2011 – $816,219) represent 
the fair value of assets held for personal, corporate and institutional 
clients as well as third party leases and residential mortgages subject 

27.  related Party transactions

Transactions between subsidiary entities are made at normal market 
prices and are eliminated on consolidation.

Preferred Rates and Terms
The Bank makes loans, primarily residential mortgages, to its 
officers and employees, including key management personnel, at 
various preferred rates and terms. The total amount outstanding for 
these types of loans is $113,967 (2011 – $111,474). The Bank offers 
deposits, primarily fixed term deposits, to its officers, employees, 

Compensation of key management personnel is as follows:

Salaries, benefits and directors’ compensation

Share-based payments (stock option, RSUs and DSUs) (1)

total

(1)   Share-based payments are based on the estimated fair value on grant date.

Loans outstanding with key management personnel totaled $630 
as at October 31, 2012 (2011 – $961). The Bank’s policies preclude 
lending to independent directors of CWB.

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.

including key management personnel, and their immediate family 
at preferred rates. The total amount outstanding for these types of 
deposits is $219,647 (2011 – $187,733).

Key Management Personnel
key management personnel of the Bank are those that have authority 
and responsibility for planning, directing and controlling the activities 
of the Bank and include independent directors of CWB. 

2012 

5,611  $ 

 3,276 

8,887  $ 

2011 

5,303 

 3,046 

8,349

$ 

$ 

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

97

 
 
28.  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

total

non-

and within

1 to 3

3 months

within

1 year to more than

interest

october 31, 2012

1 month

months

to 1 year

1 year

5 years

5 years

sensitive

total

assets

Cash resources and securities

$ 

249 

$ 

515 

$ 

950 

$ 

1,714 

$ 

601 

$ 

159 

 76 

 – 

 – 

 235

 – 

 9 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 9 

$ 

99 

$ 

2,573 

 (63)

 346 

 2 

 384

 (15)

 369 

 – 

 1,465 

 2 

 1,821 

 13,954 

 346 

 243 

 17,116

 14,145 

 524 

 634 

 1,570 

 243 

 17,116 

Loans

Other assets (2)

Derivative financial instruments (1)

Total

liabilities and equity

Deposits

Other liabilities (2)

Debt (3)

Equity

Derivative financial instruments (1)

Total

interest rate sensitive gap

cumulative gap

cumulative gap as a

$ 

$ 

 6,568 

 – 

 – 

 583 

 – 

 70 

 1,713 

 8,864 

 5,077 

 – 

 163 

 – 

 233 

 – 

 8 

 6,817 

 1,168 

 2,826

 10,811

 5,686

 4,936 

 1,122 

 3,499 

 9,557 

 4,603 

 73 

 7 

 – 

 241 

 5,257 

1,560 

1,560 

 6 

 14 

 – 

 – 

 1,142 

26 

1,586 

$ 

$ 

 29 

 111 

 – 

 – 

 108 

 132 

 – 

 241 

 38 

 502 

 105 

 – 

 3,639 

 10,038 

 5,248 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

$ 

$ 

(813)

773 

$ 

$ 

773 

773 

$  438 

$ 

226 

$ 

1,211 

$  1,437 

$ 

$ 

(1,437) $ 

 – 

$ 

Percentage of total assets

 9.1%

 9.3%

 4.5%

 4.5%

 7.1%

 8.4%

 – 

October 31, 2011 

Cumulative Gap

$ 

1,415 

$ 

1,251 

$ 

(59)

$ 

(59)

$  1,224 

$ 

1,254 

$ 

 – 

$ 

Cumulative Gap as a 

Percentage of Total Assets

 9.5%

 8.4%

 (0.4)%

 (0.4)%

 8.2%

 8.4%

 – 

November 1, 2010

Cumulative Gap

Cumulative Gap as a 

$ 

1,002 

$ 

808 

$ 

188 

$ 

188 

$  1,082 

$ 

1,128 

$ 

 – 

$ 

Percentage of Total Assets

 7.7%

 6.2%

 1.4%

 1.4%

 8.3%

 8.7%

 – 

(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.

98

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

The effective, weighted average interest rates for each class of financial asset and liability are shown below:

weighteD average eFFective interest rates 
(%)

floating rate

and within

1 to 3

october 31, 2012

1 month

months

3 months

to 1 year

total

within

1 year

1 year to

5 years

more than

5 years

Total assets

Total liabilities

Interest Rate Sensitive Gap

October 31, 2011

Total assets

Total liabilities 

Interest Rate Sensitive Gap

November 1, 2010

Total assets

Total liabilities 

Interest Rate Sensitive Gap

 3.8% 

 1.3 

 2.5% 

 4.0% 

1.2 

2.8%

 3.9% 

 1.2 

 2.7%

 2.7% 

 2.1 

 0.6% 

 2.4% 

1.9 

 0.5%

 2.8% 

 2.0 

 0.8%

 3.7% 

 2.3 

 1.4% 

 4.6% 

 2.5 

2.1%

 4.9% 

 2.6 

 2.3%

 3.6% 

 1.7 

 1.9% 

 3.9% 

 1.7 

 2.2%

 4.0% 

 1.7 

 2.3%

 5.0% 

 2.5 

 2.5% 

 5.2% 

 2.8 

 2.4%

 5.5% 

 3.2 

 2.3%

 5.0% 

 – 

 5.0% 

5.1% 

5.8 

(0.7)%

 5.2% 

 5.8 

(0.6)%

total

 4.1% 

2.0 

2.1%

 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 3.8% or $15,086 (October 31, 
2011 - 3.0% or $11,024) and decrease other comprehensive income 
$12,594 (October 31, 2011 – $9,017) 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 
5.4% or $21,534 (October 31, 2011 – 3.7% or $13,436) and increase 
other comprehensive income $12,594 (October 31, 2011 – $9,017) 
net of tax.

29.  fair Value of financial instruments

a)  financial assets and liabilities by measurement basis

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, and non-market observable inputs.

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 provides the carrying amount of financial 
instruments by category as defined in IAS 39 – Financial Instruments: 
Recognition and Measurement and by balance sheet heading. The 
table 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.

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

99

 
loans and

receivables, and

 non-trading

derivatives

liabilities

available-

for-sale

total

carrying

amount

fair value

fair value

over (under)

carrying

amount

$ 

 – 

 – 

 14,016,609 

 128,614 

 – 

$ 

236,983 

$ 

236,983 

$ 

236,983 

$ 

 2,336,100 

 2,336,100 

 2,336,100 

 – 

 – 

 14,016,609 

 14,051,651 

 35,042 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 128,614 

 1,951 

 128,614 

 1,951 

$  14,145,223 

$  2,573,083 

$  16,720,257 

$  16,755,299 

$  14,160,114 

$ 

 366,557 

 70,089 

 634,273 

 – 

$  15,231,033 

$ 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

$  14,160,114 

$  14,189,398 

 366,557 

 366,557 

 70,089 

 634,273 

 10 

 70,089 

 652,929 

 10 

$  15,231,043 

$  15,278,983 

$ 

47,940 

Loans and

receivables, and

 non-trading

Derivatives

liabilities

Available-

for-sale

Total

carrying

amount

Fair value

$ 

 – 

 – 

 12,354,275 

 111,154 

$ 

312,335 

$ 

312,335 

$ 

312,335 

$ 

 1,925,704 

 1,925,704 

 1,925,704 

 – 

 – 

 12,354,275 

 12,419,441 

 111,154 

 111,154 

$  12,465,429 

$  2,238,039 

$  14,703,468 

$  14,768,634 

$  12,409,774 

$ 

 310,367 

 634,877 

 – 

$  13,355,018 

$ 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

$  12,409,774 

$  12,466,443 

 310,367 

 634,877 

 436 

 310,367 

 657,198 

 436 

$  13,355,454 

$  13,434,444 

$ 

78,990

$ 

$ 

 – 

 – 

35,042 

29,284 

 – 

 – 

 18,656 

 – 

Fair value

over (under)

carrying

amount

 – 

 – 

 65,166 

 – 

65,166 

56,669 

 – 

 22,321 

 – 

$ 

$ 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 1,951 

1,951 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

10 

10 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 436 

436 

october 31, 2012

financial assets

Cash resources  (Note 3)

$ 

Securities 

 (Note 4)

Loans (1)

Other assets (2)

Derivative related

total financial assets

financial liabilities

Deposits (1)

Other liabilities (3)

Securities sold under

$ 

$ 

repurchase agreements

Debt

Derivative related

total financial liabilities

$ 

October 31, 2011

financial assets

Cash resources  (Note 3)

$ 

Securities  

(Note 4)

Loans (1)

Other assets (2)

total financial assets

financial liabilities

Deposits (1)

Other liabilities (3)

Debt

Derivative related

$ 

$ 

total financial liabilities

$ 

100

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

Fair value

over (under)

carrying

amount

 – 

 – 

 – 

Loans and

receivables, and

 non-trading

Derivatives

liabilities

Available-

for-sale

Total

carrying

amount

Fair value

November 1, 2010

financial assets

Cash resources  (Note 3)

$ 

 –  $ 

 –  $ 

187,944  $ 

187,944  $ 

187,944  $ 

Securities  

(Note 4)

Securities purchased under

resale agreements

Loans (1)

Other assets (2)

Derivative related

total financial assets

financial liabilities

Deposits (1)

Other liabilities (3)

Debt

Derivative related

$ 

$ 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 10,749,477 

 124,265 

 134 

 – 

 1,510,187 

 1,510,187 

 1,510,187 

 177,954 

 177,954 

 177,954 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 10,749,477 

 10,788,315 

 38,838 

 124,265 

 134 

 124,265 

 134 

 – 

 – 

134  $ 

10,873,742  $ 

1,876,085  $ 

12,749,961  $ 

12,788,799  $ 

38,838 

 –  $ 

10,721,670  $ 

 –  $ 

10,721,670  $ 

10,775,576  $ 

53,906 

 – 

 – 

 992 

 289,954 

 517,006 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 289,954 

 517,006 

 992 

 289,954 

 522,971 

 992 

 – 

 5,965 

 – 

total financial liabilities

$ 

992  $ 

11,528,630  $ 

 –  $ 

11,529,622  $ 

11,589,493  $ 

59,871 

(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, deferred tax asset, prepaid and deferred 

expenses, financing costs and other items that are not financial instruments.

(3)  Other liabilities exclude deferred 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 28.

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;

•	 for the acquisition contingent consideration, included in other 
liabilities, where an active market does not exist, fair value is 
determined using valuation techniques that refer to non-market 
observable inputs; 

•	 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

•	 loans reflect changes in the general level of interest rates that 

•	 the fair values of debt are determined by reference to current 

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 and acquisition contingent consideration, 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;

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.

b)  fair Value hierarchy

The Bank categorizes its fair value measurements of financial 
instruments recorded on the consolidated balance sheets according 
to a three-level hierarchy. Level 1 fair value measurements reflect 
published market prices quoted in active markets. Level 2 fair value 
measurements were estimated using a valuation technique based 
on observable market data. Level 3 fair value measurements were 
determined using a valuation technique based on non-market 
observable input. 

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

101

as at october 31, 2012

Financial Assets

Cash resources

Securities

Derivative related

Total Financial Assets

Financial Liabilities

Derivative related

As at October 31, 2011

Financial Assets

Cash resources

Securities

Total Financial Assets

Financial Liabilities

Other liability

Derivative related

Total Financial Liabilities

As at November 1, 2010

Financial Assets

Cash resources

Securities

Securities purchased under resale agreements

Derivative related

Total Financial Assets

Financial Liabilities

Other liability

Derivative related

Total Financial Liabilities

fair Value

level 1

level 2

level 3

Valuation technique

$ 

236,983  $ 

236,983  $ 

 –  $ 

 2,336,100 

 2,336,100 

 1,951 

 – 

 – 

 1,951 

$ 

2,575,034  $ 

2,573,083  $ 

1,951  $ 

$ 

10  $ 

 –  $ 

10  $ 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

Fair Value

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Valuation Technique

$ 

312,335  $ 

272,704  $ 

39,631  $ 

 1,925,704 

 1,925,704 

 – 

$ 

2,238,039  $ 

2,198,408  $ 

39,631  $ 

 – 

 – 

 – 

$ 

$ 

61,011  $ 

 436 

61,447  $ 

 –  $ 

 – 

 –  $ 

 –  $ 

61,011 

 436 

 – 

436  $ 

61,011 

Fair Value

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Valuation Technique

$ 

187,944  $ 

181,143  $ 

6,801  $ 

 1,510,187 

 177,954 

 134 

 1,510,187 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 177,954 

 134 

$ 

1,876,219  $ 

1,691,330  $ 

184,889  $ 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

$ 

$ 

48,706  $ 

 992 

49,698  $ 

 –  $ 

 – 

 –  $ 

 –  $ 

48,706 

 992 

 – 

992  $ 

48,706

102

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

c)  level 3 financial instruments

Level 3 financial instruments were comprised of the contingent 
consideration related to a 2010 subsidiary acquisition (see Note 17). 

The following table shows a reconciliation of the fair value measurements related to the Level 3 valued instrument:

Balance at beginning of year

Change in fair value charged to other income

Settlement  

Balance at end of year

30.  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 Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
(MD&A).

As permitted by the IASB, certain of the risk management disclosure 
related to risks inherent with financial instruments is included in 

31.  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 impact the longer term financial 
success of the Bank as measured by share price appreciation and 
dividend yield. Note 18 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.

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. 
Based on the deemed credit risk of each type of asset, a standardized 
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 

2012

61,011  $ 

 2,489 

 (63,500)

2011

48,706 

 12,305 

 – 

 –  $ 

61,011

$ 

$ 

(Note 17)

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.

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 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 collective allowance for credit losses (to the 
regulatory maximum) and any innovative capital not included in Tier 1.

Capital for Canadian financial institutions is managed and reported 
until December 2012 in accordance with Basel II. A revised capital 
framework (called Basel III) is effective for Canadian financial 
institutions beginning on January 1, 2013. Further details are available 
in the Capital Management section in the 2012 Management’s 
Discussion and Analysis.

During the year, the Bank complied with all internal and external 
capital requirements.

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

103

 
caPital structure anD basel ii regulatory ratios at year enD 

tier 1 capital

Retained earnings

Common shares

Preferred shares

Share-based payment reserve

Innovative capital instrument (2)

Non-controlling interest in subsidiary

Less goodwill of subsidiaries

Less investment in insurance subsidiary (3)

Less securitization

Total

tier 2 capital

Collective allowance for credit losses (Tier 2A) (4)

Accumulated unrealized gains on available-for-sale equity securities, net of tax (5)

Subordinated debentures (Tier 2B) (6)

Less investment in insurance subsidiary (3)

Less securitization

Total

total regulatory capital

regulatory capital to risk-weighted assets

Tier 1 capital

Tier 2 capital

total regulatory capital adequacy ratio

assets to regulatory capital multiple (7)

2012

2011(1)

$ 

733,298 

$ 

650,028 

 490,218 

 209,750 

 22,468 

 105,000 

 266 

 (45,536)

 (35,699)

 (18,989)

 408,014 

 209,750 

 21,884 

 105,000 

 225 

 (37,852)

 – 

 (6,583)

 1,460,776 

 1,350,466 

 67,344 

 5,358 

 425,000 

 (35,699)

 (18,989)

 443,014 

 60,429

 1,509 

 545,000 

 (80,941)

 (6,583)

 519,414 

$ 

1,903,790 

$ 

1,869,880 

 10.6% 

 3.2 

 13.8% 

 8.8 

 11.1%

 4.3 

 15.4%

 7.9 

(1)  The 201 1 capital structure and regulatory ratios reflect the returns filed and have not been restated to International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).
(2)  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.

(3)  2012 Tier 1 capital, compared to 2011, reflects the expiration of a Basel II transition provision that permitted the capital deduction related to CWB’s insurance subsidiary to be deducted from 

Tier 2 capital. Beginning in 2012, the deduction is recorded 50% against Tier 1 capital and 50% against Tier 2 capital.

(4) Banks are allowed to include their collective allowance for credit losses up to a prescribed percentage of risk-weighted assets in Tier 2A capital. At October 31, 2012, the Bank’s collective 

allowance represented 0.49% (2011 – 0.50%) of risk-weighted assets.

(5)  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.

(6) 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, 2012 

and 2011, all subordinated debentures are included in Tier 2B capital.

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

104

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

 
 
32.  transition to ifrs

As stated in Note 1, these are the Bank’s first annual financial 
statements prepared in accordance with IFRS. In preparing the 
opening IFRS consolidated balance sheet as at November 1, 
2010, the Bank has adjusted amounts reported previously in the 
consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with 
Canadian GAAP. An explanation of how the transition from Canadian 
GAAP to IFRS has affected the Bank is set out in the following 
tables and accompanying footnotes. No material adjustments to the 
consolidated statement of cash flows were required.

IFRS has been applied retrospectively, except for certain optional 
and mandatory exemptions from full retrospective application 
provided for under IFRS 1 - First time Adoption of IFRS (IFRS 1), as 
described below.

Optional exemption
Business combinations – The Bank has elected to apply IFRS 3 – 
Business Combinations prospectively only to business combinations 
on or after February 1, 2010. As a result, business combinations prior 
to February 1, 2010 have not been restated.

Mandatory exemptions
The Bank has applied all mandatory exemptions as required under 
IFRS 1.

a)  business combinations

The Bank elected to apply IFRS retrospectively to business 
combinations that occurred on or after February 1, 2010. This 
election resulted in the adjustment of the February 1, 2010 
acquisition of National Leasing. The following transition adjustments 
were required:

•	 Under Canadian GAAP, contingent consideration is recorded only 
when it is determinable beyond a reasonable doubt. Under IFRS, 
certain contingent consideration arrangements are reported at 
fair value as at the acquisition date, and each period thereafter, 
the contingent consideration fair value is re-measured and any 
adjustments are recorded in the other income – “other” (non-
tax deductible);

•	 Under Canadian GAAP, acquisition-related costs are included in 
the cost of the acquisition, while under IFRS, acquisition-related 
costs are expensed; and

•	 Under Canadian GAAP, the valuation of the Bank’s shares issued 
as part of the consideration for the acquisition is based on a 
reasonable time frame before and after the acquisition date. Under 
IFRS, the valuation is completed on the acquisition date.

The impact arising from the change is detailed in the following 
statements under the heading “(a) Business Combinations”. The 
increase noted in other assets relates to goodwill, and the increase 
noted in other liabilities relates to the acquisition contingent 
consideration obligation.

b)  derecognition of securitized financial assets

The Bank participates in securitization activities. Securitization 
consists of the transfer of equipment leases to an independent trust 
or other third party, which purchases the cash flows associated with 
the leases and may issue securities to investors. Under Canadian 
GAAP, securitized assets are accounted for as sales and removed 
from the consolidated balance sheet as the Bank surrenders control 
of the transferred assets and receives consideration other than 
beneficial interests in the transferred assets. Under IFRS, because 
the bank has an obligation to remit contractual cash flow payments 
regardless of whether the underlying cash flows are collected from 
lessees, the Bank has not transferred substantially all of the risks and 

rewards relating to the leases. As a result, the derecognition criteria 
within IAS 39 – Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement 
are not met and the leases are accounted for as a secured borrowing 
with the underlying leases of the securitization remaining on the 
consolidated balance sheet and a debt security recognized for the 
funding received.

The impact arising from the change is detailed in the following 
statements under the heading “(b) Derecognition”.

c)  consolidation

Under IFRS, a special purpose entity (SPE) is consolidated if it is 
deemed to be controlled by the reporting entity, as determined 
under specific criteria. Canadian Western Bank Capital Trust is 
consolidated under IFRS, which resulted in a $105 million decrease 
in deposits and the presentation of the CWB Capital Trust Capital 
Securities Series 1 (WesTS) as equity attributed to non-controlling 
interests. Distributions on the WesTS that were effectively reported 
as deposit interest expense under Canadian GAAP are now 
presented as an equity dividend within IFRS “net income attributable 
to non-controlling interests.” For more information about this special 
purpose entity, refer to Note 19.

The impact arising from the change is detailed in the following 
statements under the heading “(c) Consolidation”.

d)  impairment of available-for-sale securities

Under both Canadian GAAP and IFRS, available-for-sale securities 
(AFS) 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 it 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. The differences 
between Canadian GAAP and IFRS will generally result in earlier 
recognition of impairment losses through net income under IFRS. 

The impact arising from the change is detailed in the following 
statements under the heading “(d) AFS Impairment”. 

e)  other reclassifications

Certain other financial statement reclassifications have been made 
on the transition to IFRS. An example includes the presentation of 
the non-controlling interest in Adroit Investment Management Ltd. 
which has been reclassified from other liabilities under Canadian 
GAAP to non-controlling interests (presented in equity) under IFRS.

In addition to the IFRS transition adjustments previously described, 
the recognition of certain credit related fees was also amended. 
Certain credit related fees, previously recognized in other income, are 
now reflected as part of the loan yield and amortized to net interest 
income over the expected life of the loan. Because total loans are 
reported net of deferred loan fees, this change resulted in a decrease 
in total loans of $17,982 and a reduction in retained earnings of 
$13,450. While the change had no impact on 2011 net income, 
approximately $14,514 was reclassified from other income to net 
interest income.

The impact arising from the changes above are detailed in the 
following statements under the heading “(e) Other Reclassifications”.

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

105

reconciliation oF conDenseD consoliDateD balance sheets 
As at November 1, 2010

IFRS Adjustments

(a)

(b)

(c)

Canadian

Business 

(d)

AFS

(e)

Other

GAAP  Combinations Derecognition Consolidation

   Impairment

   Reclassifications

IFRS

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

1,752

–

–

–

–

$ 

–

$   1,876,085

(17,982)

10,674,697

4,532

330,946

$ 

 (13,450) $  12,881,728

$ 

–

$  10,707,767

(179)

–

429,490

517,006

(179)

11,654,263

–

–

–

–

209,750

279,620

586,933

21,291

24,692

(13,450)

1,122,286

179

105,179

(13,271)

1,227,465

$ 

 (13,450) $  12,881,728

(1,752)

(13,450)

assets

Cash resources, securities  
  and securities under  
resale agreements

Loans

Other assets

total assets

liabilities

Deposits

Other liabilities

Debt

$   1,876,085

$ 

10,496,464

–

–

329,142

7,839

$ 

–

$ 

196,215

(10,567)

$  12,701,691

$  

7,839

$ 

 185,648 $ 

–

–

–

–

$ 

$ 

$  10,812,767

$ 

–

$ 

– $   (105,000)

$ 

425,881

315,000

 17,835

–

(14,047)

202,006

–

–

total liabilities

11,553,648

17,835

187,959

(105,000)

equity

Preferred shares

Common shares

Retained earnings

Share-based  
  payment reserve

Other reserves

209,750

279,352

614,710

21,291

22,940

total shareholders’ equity

1,148,043

(9,996)

Non-controlling interests

–

–

total equity

1,148,043

(9,996)

–

268

–

–

(10,264)

(2,311)

–

–

–

–

(2,311)

–

(2,311)

–

–

–

–

–

–

105,000

105,000

total liabilities and equity

$  12,701,691

$ 

 7,839

$ 

 185,648 $ 

–

$ 

106

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
reconciliation oF conDenseD consoliDateD balance sheets 
As at October 31, 201 1

IFRS Adjustments

(a)

(b)

(c)

Canadian

Business

(d)

AFS

(e)

Other

GAAP Combinations  Derecognition Consolidation

Impairment Reclassifications

IFRS

assets

Cash resources and securities

$  2,238,039 $ 

12,221,143

312,853

– $ 

–

7,839

– $ 

– $ 

– $ 

–

$  2,238,039

90,121

(7,404)

–

–

–

–

(17,982)

12,293,282

4,532

317,820

$  14,772,035 $ 

7,839 $ 

82,717 $ 

– $ 

– $ 

(13,450) $  14,849,141

$  12,499,689 $ 

– $ 

– $ 

(105,000) $ 

– $ 

–

$  12,394,689

433,780

545,000

30,140

–

13,478,469

30,140

(5,958)

89,877

83,919

–

–

(105,000)

Loans

Other assets

total assets

liabilities

Deposits

Other liabilities

Debt

total liabilities

equity

Preferred shares

Common shares

Retained earnings

Share-based payment reserve

Other reserves

209,750

408,014

650,028

21,884

3,890

–

268

–

–

(22,569)

(1,202)

–

–

–

–

total shareholders’ equity

1,293,566

(22,301)

(1,202)

Non-controlling interests

–

–

–

total equity

1,293,566

(22,301)

(1,202)

–

–

–

–

–

–

105,000

105,000

–

–

–

–

–

–

3,959

–

–

–

(225)

–

457,737

634,877

(225)

13,487,303

–

–

–

–

209,750

408,282

608,848

21,884

7,849

(13,450)

1,256,613

225

105,225

(13,225)

1,361,838

(3,959)

(13,450)

total liabilities and equity

$  14,772,035 $ 

7,839 $ 

82,717 $ 

– $ 

– $ 

(13,450) $  14,849,141

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

107

reconciliation oF conDenseD consoliDateD stateMent oF incoMe 
FOR ThE YEAR ENDED OCTOBER 31, 2011

Net interest income 
Provision for credit losses
Other income
Non-interest expenses
Income taxes
Non-controlling interest

in subsidiary

net income
Net income attributable to 
non-controlling interests
Net income attributable to
shareholders of the Bank

Preferred share dividends
net income available 

Canadian
GAAP
$  373,624
22,179
106,331
222,451
56,948

$ 

$ 

228
178,149

–

178,149
15,208

IFRS Adjustments

(b)

(c)

(a)
Business

$ 

Combinations  Derecognition Consolidation
6,747
$ 
–
–
–
–

–
–
(12,305)
–
–

5,508
(396)
(4,386)
–
409

$ 

(d)
AFS

(e)
Other
Impairment  Reclassifications
14,514
$ 
–
(14,514)
–
–

–
–
(3,023)
–
(816)

$ 

IFRS
$  400,393
21,783
72,103
222,451
56,541

$ 

$ 

–
(12,305)

–

(12,305)
–

$ 

$ 

–
1,109

–

1,109
–

$ 

$ 

–
6,747

6,747

–
–

–

$ 

$ 

–
(2,207)

–

(2,207)
–

$ 

$ 

$ 

(2,207)

$ 

(228)
228

$ 

–
171,721

228

6,975

–
–

–

$ 

164,746
15,208

$ 

149,538

to common shareholders

$ 

162,941

$ 

(12,305)

$ 

1,109

$ 

reconciliation oF conDenseD consoliDateD stateMent oF coMPrehensive incoMe 
FOR ThE YEAR ENDED OCTOBER 31, 2011

IFRS Adjustments

(a)

(b)

(c)

Canadian

Business

(d)

AFS

(e)

Other

Net income 

$ 

178,149

$ 

(12,305) $ 

1,109

$ 

6,747

$ 

(2,207) $ 

228 $ 

171,721

GAAP

Combinations Derecognition

Impairment

Consolidation Reclassifications

IFRS

Available-for-sale securities 

(19,050)

Derivatives designated

as cash flow hedges

Other comprehensive income 

–

for the year

(19,050)

comprehensive income

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

for the year

$ 

159,099

$ 

(12,305) $ 

1,109

$ 

6,747

$ 

Attributable to shareholders

of the bank

$ 

159,099

$ 

(12,305) $ 

1,109

$ 

–

$ 

Attributable to non-controlling

interests

comprehensive income  

–

–

–

6,747

for the year

$ 

159,099

$ 

(12,305) $ 

1,109

$ 

6,747

$ 

2,207

–

2,207

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(16,843)

–

(16,843)

$ 

$ 

228 $ 

154,878

–

$ 

147,903

228

6,975

$ 

228 $ 

154,878

108

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

 
33.  subsidiaries

canaDian western bank subsiDiaries (1) 
(ANNExED IN ACCORDANCE WITh SUBSECTION 308 (3) OF ThE BANk ACT) 
OCTOBER 31, 2012

National Leasing Group Inc.

Address of

head Office

1525 Buffalo Place

Winnipeg, Manitoba

Canadian Direct Insurance Incorporated

Suite 600, 750 Cambie Street

Vancouver, British Columbia

Canadian Western Trust Company

Suite 3000, 10303 Jasper Avenue

Valiant Trust Company

Edmonton, Alberta

Suite 310, 606 4th St. S.W.

Calgary, Alberta

Adroit Investment Management Ltd.

Suite 1250, 10303 Jasper Avenue

Edmonton, Alberta

Canadian Western Bank Capital Trust

Suite 3000, 10303 Jasper Avenue

Edmonton, Alberta

Canadian Western Bank Leasing Inc.

Suite 3000, 10303 Jasper Avenue

Edmonton, Alberta

Canadian Western Financial Ltd.

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. (72.75% ownership).
(2)  The carrying value of voting shares is stated at the Bank’s equity in the subsidiaries. 

Carrying Value of

Voting Shares Owned

by the Bank(2)

$ 

134,458

 25,766 

 19,136 

 8,080 

 6,927 

 1,000 

 1 

 1 

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

109

 
shareholDer 
inForMation

cwb group corporate headquarters
canadian western bank & trust
Suite 3000, Canadian Western Bank Place
10303 Jasper Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta  T5J 3x6
Telephone: (780) 423-8888
Fax: (780) 423-8897
Website: cwb.com

transfer agent and registrar
Valiant trust company
Suite 310, 606 - 4th Street S.W.
Calgary, Alberta   T2P 1T1
Telephone: (866) 313-1872
Fax: (403) 233-2857
Website: valianttrust.com

stock exchange listings
The Toronto Stock Exchange (TSx)
Common Shares: CWB
Series 3 Preferred Shares: CWB.PR.A

shareholder administration 
Valiant Trust Company, with offices in Calgary, 
Edmonton, Vancouver and Toronto, serves as 
Transfer Agent and Registrar for the common 
shares and preferred shares of CWB.  

For dividend information, changes 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 communications
If 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 services
Shareholders 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.  

110

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

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 relations
Shareholders, institutional investors or research 
analysts who would like additional financial 
information are asked to contact: 
Investor Relations Department
Canadian Western Bank 
Suite 3000, Canadian Western Bank Place
10303 Jasper Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta  T5J 3x6
Telephone: (800) 836-1886
Fax: (780) 969-8326
Email: Investorrelations@cwbank.com

More 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 2012 Annual Report, the Annual Information 
Form, Notice of Annual and Special Meeting of 
Shareholders and Proxy Circular will be available 
on CWB’s website. For additional printed copies 
of these reports, please contact the Investor 
Relations Department.

Filings are available on the Canadian Securities 
Administrator’s website: www.sedar.com

2013 annual and special meeting  
of shareholders
The Annual and Special Meeting of 
Shareholders of Canadian Western Bank will  
be held in Edmonton, Alberta, on March 7, 2013 
at The Fairmont hotel Macdonald  
(Empire Ballroom) 
at 3:00 p.m. MT (5:00 p.m. ET).

corporate secretary
Gail L. harding, Q.C.
Senior Vice President, General Counsel  
and Corporate Secretary
Canadian Western Bank
Suite 3000, Canadian Western Bank Place
10303 Jasper Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta   T5J 3x6
Telephone: (780) 423-8855
Fax: (780) 438-2632

complaints or concerns regarding 
accounting, internal accounting controls 
or auditing matters
Please contact either: 
tracey c. ball
Executive Vice President and 
Chief Financial Officer
Canadian Western Bank
Suite 3000, Canadian Western Bank Place
10303 Jasper Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta   T5J 3x6
Telephone: (780) 423-8855
Fax: (780) 969-8326
Email: tracey.ball@cwbank.com
or
robert a. Manning
Chairman of the Audit Committee
c/o 210 – 5324 Calgary Trail
Edmonton, Alberta T6h 4J8
Telephone: (780) 438-2626
Fax: (780) 438-2632
Email: rmanning@shawbiz.ca

 
 
hard working.
enthusiastic. responsive.
Dedicated.
These are characteristics exemplified by 
the recipients of the Award of Excellence, 
an annual recognition for employees who 
demonstrate the qualities for which CWB 
Group is known. 

awarD oF 
excellence

recipients for 2012

Exceeding the expectations of both 
clients and colleagues, these individuals 
consistently take initiative to innovate 
and inspire.

Congratulations to the 2012 recipients of 
the Award of Excellence:

•	 charles cheng, CDI, Vancouver

•	 Deb Price, CDI, Edmonton

•	 sylvia thiessen, CWB, Winnipeg

•	 therese lavallee, CWB, Calgary 

•	 Dawn argent, CWB, Edmonton 

•	 David hofer, CWB, Edmonton 

•	 shirley Falls, Adroit, Edmonton

•	 tammy Dorais, CWB, Surrey

•	 Maria sastrillo, CWB, Vancouver

•	 robyn stone, CWB, Red Deer

•	 kim wong, Valiant, Vancouver

•	 ryan green, CWT, Vancouver

eco auDit

This Annual Report uses 10% Post Consumer Recycled 
fiber instead of virgin paper, the following savings 
to our natural resources were realized:(1)

trees saved

19

wood saved (Tonnes)

4

energy not consumed (Million BTU’s)

8

net greenhouse gases Prevented (lbs. C02 Equiv.)

1,688 

waste water (Water Saved gals.)

solid waste (Landfill Reduced lbs.)

613

(1) Above information is based on use of the following products:
  8,500 sheets of 28 x 40 Sterling Premium 80lb Matte Cover 346M
  163,000 sheets of 23 x 35 Sterling Premium 60lb Matte Text 102M
  Data research provided by www.environmentalpaper.org.

9,155

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

111

locations

canadian western bank

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
George Bawden

•	Old	Strathcona

7933, 104 Street
(780) 433.4286
Donna Austin

•	South	Edmonton	Common

2142, 99 Street
(780) 988.8607
Robert Ovics

•	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
 Colin Errmann

•	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
•	Calgary	Westjet	
  Banking Centre
  22 Aerial Place NE
  Westjet Campus
  (403) 452.5869
  Christina French

grande Prairie
11226 100 Avenue
(780) 831.1888
Todd Kramer

leduc
5407 Discovery Way
(780) 986.9858
Michael White

lethbridge
744, 4 Avenue South
(403) 328.9199
Les Erickson

medicine hat
102, 1111 Kingsway Avenue S.E.
(403) 527.7321
Connelly Sherwick

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
Brian Korpan

•	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) 417.4560
Mike Eckersley

kamloops
101, 1211 Summit Drive
(250) 828.1070
Joshua Knaak

kelowna
•	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

Designed by Vision Creative Inc. visioncreativeinc.com

112

CWB Group 2012 Annual Report

Prince george
300 Victoria Street
(250) 612.0123
David Duck

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 
1866 Hamilton St. 
Hill Tower III
(306) 757.8888
Kelly Dennis

saskatoon 
•	Saskatoon	City	Centre

244, 2 Avenue
(306) 477.8888
Ron Kowalenko

•	Saskatoon 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	Kenaston

125 Nature Park Way
(204) 452.0933
Christopher Voogt

canadian direct financial 
•	Edmonton

3000, 10303 Jasper Avenue
(780) 441.2249
canadiandirectfinancial.com

canadian western trust
•	Calgary

310, 606 4 Street S.W.
(403) 717.3145

•	Edmonton

3000, 10303 Jasper Avenue
(780) 969.8332

•	Toronto

710, 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

 
 
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