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Canadian Western Bank
Annual Report 2013

CWB · TSX Financial Services
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FY2013 Annual Report · Canadian Western Bank
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Bank    Trust    Insurance    Wealth Management

2013
Annual
Report

CWB Group

Bank

Trust

Insurance

Wealth 
Management

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

i  

 
Five Year Financial Summary ($ thousands, except per share amounts)

Results of Operations

Net interest income (teb) (2) 

Less teb adjustment 

Net interest income per financial statements 

Other income  

Total revenues (teb) 

Total revenues 

Net income available to common shareholders 

Return on common shareholders’ equity (3) 

Return on average total assets (4) 

Per Common Share

2013 

IFRS (1) 

2012 

Canadian GAAP (1)

2011 

2010 

2009

$ 

477,501 

$ 

443,572 

$ 

411,452 

$ 

328,664 

$ 

236,354

8,138 

469,363 

94,982 

572,483 

564,345 

187,163 

9,143 

434,429 

81,910 

525,482 

516,339 

172,197 

11,059 

400,393 

72,103 

483,555 

472,496 

149,538 

11,186 

317,478 

105,595 

434,259 

423,073 

148,413 

7,847

228,507

91,612

327,966

320,119

96,223

14.1 % 

1.06 

15.0 % 

1.08 

14.7 % 

1.09 

17.1 % 

1.24 

13.2 %

0.86

Average common shares outstanding (thousands) 

79,147 

76,841 

72,205 

65,757 

63,613

Earnings per share

Basic 

Diluted 

Adjusted cash (5) 

Dividends 

Book value 

Market price

High 

Low 

Close 

$ 

$ 

2.36 

2.35 

2.39 

0.70 

17.54 

33.75 

27.04 

33.44 

$ 

2.24 

2.22 

2.30 

0.62 

15.94 

30.10 

24.62 

29.56 

$ 

2.07 

1.95 

2.17 

0.54 

13.87 

31.75 

24.00 

28.50 

$ 

2.26 

2.05 

2.09 

0.44 

14.08 

26.59 

19.85 

25.36 

1.51

1.47

1.49

0.44

12.16

23.00

7.52

21.38

Balance Sheet and Off-Balance Sheet Summary

Assets 

$  18,520,260 

$  16,873,269 

$  14,849,141 

$  12,701,691 

$  11,635,872

Cash resources, securities and repurchase agreements 

2,580,327 

2,573,083 

2,238,039 

1,876,085 

Loans 

Deposits 

Debt 

Shareholders’ equity 

Assets under administration 

Assets under management 

Capital Adequacy (6)

Common equity Tier 1 ratio 

Tier 1 ratio 

Total ratio 

Other Information

Efficiency ratio (teb) (7) 

Efficiency ratio 

Net interest margin (teb) (8) 

Net interest margin 

Provision for credit losses

as a percentage of average loans 

Net impaired loans as a percentage of total loans 

Number of full-time equivalent staff (9) 

Number of bank branches 

(1)  Financial 

information  prepared  under 

International  Financial  Reporting  Standards  (IFRS)  
(2013, 2012 and 2011) and Canadian Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) (2010 and 
2009) may not be directly comparable.

(2)  Most banks analyze revenue on a taxable equivalent basis (teb) to permit uniform measurement 
and  comparison  of  net  interest  income.  Net  interest  income  (as  presented  in  the  consolidated 
statements  of  income)  includes  tax-exempt  income  on  certain  securities.  Since  this  income  is 
not  taxable,  the  rate  of  interest  or  dividends  received  is  significantly  lower  than  would  apply 
to  a  loan  or  security  of  the  same  amount.  The  adjustment  to  taxable  equivalent  basis  increases 
interest income and the provision for income taxes to what they would have been had the tax-
exempt  securities  been  taxed  at  the  statutory  rate.  The  taxable  equivalent  basis  does  not  have 
a  standardized  meaning  prescribed  by  IFRS  and,  therefore,  may  not  be  comparable  to  similar 
measures presented by other banks.

(3)  Return  on  common  shareholders’  equity  is  calculated  as  net  income  available  to  common 

shareholders divided by average common shareholders’ equity.

(4)  Return on assets is calculated as net income available to common shareholders divided by average 

total assets. 

ii 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

  15,576,893 

  13,953,686 

  12,293,282 

  10,496,464 

  15,526,040 

  14,144,837 

  12,394,689 

  10,812,767 

820,650 

1,605,427 

8,423,972 

1,901,146 

634,273 

1,464,979 

7,171,826 

855,333 

634,877 

1,256,613 

9,369,589 

816,219 

315,000 

1,148,043 

8,530,716 

795,467 

2,188,512

9,236,193

9,617,238

375,000

986,499

5,467,447

878,095

8.0 % 

9.7   

13.9 

n/a   

10.6 % 

13.8 

n/a   

11.1 % 

15.4 

n/a   

11.3 % 

14.3 

n/a 

11.3 %

15.4

45.9 % 

44.8 % 

44.9 % 

44.1 % 

48.2 %

46.5 

2.70 

2.65 

0.19 

(0.14) 

2,037 

41 

45.6 

2.79 

2.73 

0.19 

(0.11) 

1,885 

41 

45.9 

2.99 

2.91 

0.19 

0.21 

1,796 

40 

45.3 

2.74 

2.64 

0.21 

0.62 

1,716 

39 

49.4

2.10

2.03

0.15

0.68

1,339

37

(5)  Diluted earnings per common share excluding the after-tax amortization of acquisition-related intangible 
assets and the non-tax deductible charge for the fair value of contingent consideration. These exclusions 
represent non-cash charges and are not considered to be indicative of ongoing business performance.

(6)  As of January 1, 2013, the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions Canada (OSFI) adopted a  
capital management framework called Basel III, and capital is managed and reported in accordance with 
these requirements. Capital ratios prior to fiscal 2013 have been calculated using the previous framework, 
Basel  II.  Capital  ratios  calculated  under  Basel  III  are  not  directly  comparable  to  the  equivalent  Basel  II 
measures. 

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

deductible charge for the fair value of contingent consideration.

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

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

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

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Financial Performance Summary(1)

Total Loans
($ millions)

Total Assets
($ millions)

Total Revenues (teb)
($ millions)

15,577

13,954

12,293

10,496

9,236

18,520

16,873

14,849

11,636

12,702

434

328

572

525

484

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

GAAP 

IFRS

GAAP 

IFRS

GAAP 

IFRS

Net Income Available to 
Common Shareholders
($ millions)

Efficiency Ratio (teb)
(expenses to revenues)

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

187

172

148

150

48.2%

44.1%

44.9% 44.8%

45.9%

96

0.21% 0.19% 0.19% 0.19%

0.15%

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

GAAP 

IFRS

GAAP 

IFRS

GAAP 

IFRS

(1) As of 2011, financial results are reported under IFRS, as opposed to Canadian 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) 

(1) Provision for credit losses, divided by average total loans.

(2) Efficiency ratio (teb) calculated as non-interest expenses divided by total revenues (teb).

(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.

2013 
  Minimum 
Targets

2013
 Performance

8% 

8% 

10% 

 0.18 – 0.23% 

  46% or less 

14% 

1.05% 

9%

9%

12%

0.19%

45.9%

14.1%

1.06%

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

iii

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Canadian 
Western Bank 
Group

Canadian Western Bank (TSX: CWB) offers a full range 

of business and personal banking services across the 

four western provinces and is the largest publicly 

traded Canadian bank headquartered in Western 

Canada. The Bank, along with its operating affiliates/

divisions — Optimum Mortgage, National Leasing, Canadian Direct Financial, 

Canadian Western Trust, Valiant Trust, Canadian Direct Insurance, Adroit Investment 

Management, McLean & Partners Wealth Management, and Canadian Western 

Financial — collectively offer a diversified range of financial services across Canada  

and are together known as the CWB Group.

Table of Contents

CWB Group  ......................................................................... i

Five Year Financial Summary ................................................ ii

Financial Performance Summary ......................................... iii

Introduction  ........................................................................ 1

Business Strategy and Lines of Business ............................... 2

Interview with the President and CEO, Chris Fowler ............. 4

Message from the Chair, Allan Jackson  ............................... 6

Governance Structure, Updates and Initiatives ..................... 8

Management’s Discussion and Analysis  ............................. 11

Consolidated Financial Statements  .................................... 62

Shareholder Information  ................................................. 103

Locations  ........................................................................ 104

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

1

 
Business Strategy

Lines of 
Business

Vision
To be 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 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 within 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 a targeted, cohesive and growth-focused 
group of companies.

Goals
Objectives within CWB Group’s Strategic Direction are 
further guided by four inter-related financial goals:

•	  Ensure growth is profitable and accretive to  

earnings per share

•	 Grow and diversify funding sources

•	

Increase revenue diversification

•	 Control growth of non-interest expenses

BANk
Canadian Western Bank (CWB)
Core focus on full service business banking in 
Western Canada through 41 branch locations. 
Specialized expertise in general commercial 
lending, equipment financing and leasing, 
commercial real estate financing, real estate 
construction financing and energy lending.  
Also offer a full range of personal banking 
products and services, including chequing 
accounts, savings accounts, Guaranteed 
Investment Certificates (GICs), Registered 
Retirement Savings Plans (RRSPs), Tax-Free 
Savings Accounts (TFSAs), mortgages and  
personal lending.

National Leasing
Expertise in commercial equipment leasing  
with operations across Canada, specializing 
in four key verticals: general commercial, 
agriculture, health care, and golf and turf.

Optimum Mortgage
Specialty lender focused on broker-sourced 
alternative mortgages. Also offer high ratio 
insured mortgages, conventional “A” 
mortgages and home equity lines of credit. 

Canadian Direct Financial (CDF)
Internet-based division of CWB serving 
Canadians in all provinces and territories  
(except Quebec) who choose to maintain  
their banking services online, including  
those who don’t have convenient access  
to a CWB branch. 

Select 2013 Highlights 
•	  Collectively achieved 12% loan growth, 
surpassing $15 billion of total loans

•	  Enhanced business banking services  
with the introduction of new cash 
management options

•	  Surpassed $1 billion of total leases  

in National Leasing 

•	  Grew the balance of alternative mortgages 

outstanding in Optimum by 25%

•	  Increased the number of clients by 56% and 
approached $300 million of total deposits 
in CDF 

Opportunities
Maintain track record of double-digit annual  
loan growth with a focus on core lending sectors, 
portfolio diversification and optimized funding

Leverage significant investment in technology  
to deliver targeted financial solutions based on  
a strong understanding of client needs 

Deepen client relationships and increase 
products-per-client through successful cross-
selling between business and personal banking, 
as well as other CWB Group companies

2 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

TRUST
Canadian Western Trust (CWT)
Customized pension, trustee and  
custodial solutions through two distinct  
lines of business: Individual Retirement 
Investment Services (IRIS) and Corporate  
and Group Services (CGS). 

Valiant Trust (Valiant)
Specialty trust services in the areas of  
stock transfer, corporate trust, escrow  
and employee plan administration for  
public and private corporations. 

Select 2013 Highlights 
•	  Surpassed $8 billion of trust assets  

under administration

•	  Surpassed 50,000 total IRIS accounts 

•	  Expanded CGS with offering of  

custodial services to clients of Adroit 
Investment Management

•	  Approached 600 client appointments  

in Valiant

Opportunities
Leverage CWT’s success in servicing  
clients of Adroit Investment Management  
to grow CGS market share

Strengthen Valiant’s offering in the small- to 
mid-size client segment through investment 
in proprietary systems technology to improve 
revenue capture, control and security

Capitalize on opportunities for brand 
alignment and shared services between  
trust companies

Deepen client relationships by continuing  
to develop private client partnerships and 
cross-selling opportunities with other CWB 
Group companies

INSURANCE
Canadian Direct Insurance (CDI)
Direct offering of auto, home,  
tenant, condo and travel insurance to  
clients in British Columbia and Alberta. 
Differentiated by highly competitive  
products at lower cost owing to proprietary 
underwriting system and direct client  
service by phone or over the Internet. 

Select 2013 Highlights 
•	  Recognized as “Highest in Customer 
Satisfaction among Auto Insurers in 
Western Canada, three years in a row” 
in the J.D. Power & Associates 2013 
Canadian Auto Insurance Customer 
Satisfaction StudySM*

•	 Approached 200,000 policies outstanding

•	  Generated 11th consecutive annual 
underwriting profit, despite financial 
impact of severe weather events,  
including catastrophic Alberta floods

Opportunities
Expand online delivery platform to include 
tenant and condo insurance products 

Optimize home insurance pricing adequacy 
based on results of comprehensive review  
of policy coverages and deductibles 

Ongoing development of affinity partnership 
opportunities 

Deepen client relationships by continuing to 
promote CWB Group’s brand and products

* Canadian Direct Insurance Incorporated received the highest  
numerical score among auto insurance providers in Western  
Canada in the proprietary J.D. Power and Associates 2011-2013 
Canadian Auto Insurance Customer Satisfaction StudiesSM. 2013 study 
based on 11,257 total responses measuring 14 providers in Western 
Canada (AB, BC, MB, SK) and measures consumer satisfaction with 
auto insurance providers.  Proprietary study results are based on  
experiences and perceptions of consumers surveyed in  
February-March 2013.  Your experiences may vary.  Visit jdpower.com 

WEALTH MANAGEMENT
Adroit Investment Management and  
McLean & Partners Wealth Management
Discretionary portfolio management for  
high-net-worth investors and institutions 
through two investment counselling firms. 
Specialize in building customized portfolios of 
stocks, bonds and money market instruments.

Canadian Western Financial (CWF)
Mutual fund dealer offering self-directed 
investment plans through licensed 
mutual fund representatives located in 
CWB branches. Complementary wealth 
management services through advice and 
access to mutual fund products from more 
than 20 third-party fund companies. 

Select 2013 Highlights 
•	  Invested in 55% ownership of McLean  

& Partners Wealth Management

•	  More than doubled income from  

wealth management fees and investment 
assets under management

Opportunities
Determine the most effective business  
model for delivery of wealth management 
services to CWB Group clients

Deepen client relationships and increase 
products-per-client through successful cross-
selling between CWB Group companies

Invest in tools and training to enable  
CWF account managers to provide financial 
planning advice with special relevance to 
business owners

Align the geographic footprint of 
discretionary wealth management offerings 
with CWB's branch network through 
additional strategic acquisitions

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

3

 
“ We’re eager to build on our 
success as we move into the 
next phase of growth for our 
organization, and for CWB 
shareholders.” 

An Interview with  
the President and CEO, 
Chris Fowler 

CWB Group had a great year in 2013 – what stands out  
the most for you? 

Without a doubt, connecting face-to-face with our tremendous group 
of employees was the most memorable highlight for me. I dedicated 
significant time visiting nearly all of our branches and affiliate company 
offices; it was inspiring to see the passionate support for CWB Group’s 
unique culture clearly evident at every location. Another thing that 
really stood out was the collective response of our employees and 
businesses to the catastrophic flooding in June that affected numerous 
Alberta communities. It was a very challenging set of circumstances 
and our people came through in exceptional ways – first and foremost 
in support of their neighbours, communities and clients, but also in 
support of CWB Group's response as an organization. Many employees 
volunteered with local charities and cleanup crews, and we offered time 
off with pay to encourage participation. I really can’t say enough about 
the way our people came through to help those in need. I believe we 
made an important contribution as a responsible corporate citizen, and 
it all started with the individual employees who embody our values. 

It was also gratifying to have met or surpassed each of our  
performance targets this year, particularly in light of persistent 
challenges within our operating environment. Very low interest rates 
and elevated competitive pressure continued to impact all our 
businesses, further tightening yields and reducing fees compared to 
what was possible in the past. Nonetheless, we stabilized net interest 
margin in the second half of the year, which, combined with our 
success in maintaining double-digit asset growth, contributed to the 
achievement of a goal we set at the beginning of 2009 to surpass $200 
million of net income within five years. Profitability ratios were ahead of 
our targets, and credit quality was once again very solid. 

Another highlight was marking our 100th consecutive profitable 
quarter. This was a significant milestone, and it was rewarding to 
celebrate the achievement. We are, of course, a forward-looking 
culture, and we’re eager to build on our success as we move into the 
next phase of growth for our organization, and for CWB shareholders. 

What have been your primary strategic mandates  
since becoming President and CEO?

Many of the decisions we’ve made in recent years support  
CWB Group’s ongoing transition from a small regional bank into  
a diversified financial institution. As leaders, we’ve asked ourselves: 
Does what got us here, get us there? Our strong business model has 
served us very well, and we’re determined to preserve our identity as 
a successful growth story built on an entrepreneurial culture, where 
our people are empowered and know their day-to-day work makes 
a difference. However, we’re also determined to become a more 
strategically connected group of companies with a collective mandate 
that supports our vision to be seen as crucial to our clients’ futures.  
Our future growth will be based on our commitment to help more 
clients, and our success in doing additional business with those who 
have already chosen CWB Group as their preferred financial services 
partner. We are also continuing our strategic focus to build a more 
diversified and cost-effective funding model, optimize regulatory  
capital, and enhance technology and services to better meet our  
clients’ evolving needs. 

I enjoy tremendous support from our outstanding Board of Directors  
and executive team. Together, our leaders provide a wealth of experience, 
specialized market knowledge and a consistent management 
philosophy, and we’re very confident that our strategic direction is  
right for CWB Group. 

4 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

What other strategies and expectations have you  
set for CWB Group in 2014 and beyond?

Are there opportunities to expand further via acquisition?  
If so, in what areas are these opportunities most likely to arise?

Our strategy and performance targets are set in the context of evolving 
client needs, intensifying demands from regulators and highly variable 
macroeconomic conditions. In combination, these factors create a 
dynamic and often unpredictable operating environment. But whatever 
happens externally, our focus on delivering long-term value for CWB 
shareholders doesn’t change. Our annual performance targets zero in 
on specific measures that tie directly to shareholder value. We’ve always 
set targets that are challenging, but attainable, and this year is no 
exception. The targets reflect our ambitions to build on our long history 
of stable profitability, industry leading efficiency, and double-digit asset 
growth, all while maintaining disciplined underwriting practices and 
strong credit quality. 

Our results are largely driven by our geographic focus and unique 
business model, with a primary concentration on business banking 
for small- and mid-sized companies. Although we are diversifying 
geographically in certain businesses, our overall focus will remain 
consistent, and our branch infrastructure will continue to support our 
core presence in Western Canada. Our strategic direction comprises 
four inter-related financial goals: ensuring growth is profitable and 
accretive to earnings per share; growing and diversifying funding 
sources; increasing revenue diversification; and controlling the growth of 
non-interest expenses. In order to measure our performance against our 
goals and strategic objectives, we recently introduced a new strategic 
management framework. This process will help align our activities to 
support our vision and provide necessary feedback on our actions.

It sounds like you feel good about the organization’s ability  
to continue to deliver strong loan growth and consistent credit 
performance. Does this become more challenging to accomplish 
as the organization gets larger and more complex?

Getting bigger does come with certain challenges, but we’re very 
confident we have plenty of room for organic growth within our 
business model. Growth actually makes things easier in some ways  
too – we’re starting to benefit from economies of scale that weren’t 
available just a few years ago. Overall, we expect our ongoing core 
focus on Western Canada will continue to pay off for our stakeholders 
– there’s plenty of business to do here and lots of new clients for us to 
welcome aboard. Our common-sense approach to sustainable growth 
will continue focusing on business lines where we are best positioned  
to exceed client expectations with our service and expertise. 

Can you talk about a few areas in particular where  
CWB Group is building momentum?

I think our culture is actually getting stronger as we grow. In the past, 
we used the phrase “Think Western” to set ourselves apart. It stood for 
hard work, resilience, and a welcoming entrepreneurial spirit, all of 
which remain signatures of the way we work today. As our reputation 
for getting things done becomes better known, we continue to attract 
new employees who share our values and want to be a part  
of something unique.

We’re also building momentum with our business banking specialty, 
which continues to be a key differentiator and remains at the core  
of our strategy. Achieving long-term, profitable growth in business 
banking is supported by enhanced offerings in personal banking, 
leasing, trust, wealth management and insurance. Within the loan 
portfolio, we’ve continued to experience very strong growth in 
equipment financing and alternative residential mortgages. Growth in 
commercial mortgages and real estate project loans was stronger than 
expected this year as we were able to win business without matching 
competitors’ aggressive pricing tactics or compromising on quality.  
This is a great example of the business value of our culture. I believe our 
clients truly appreciate our focus on building long-term relationships, and 
they recognize the benefit of working with our committed specialists. 

When it comes to strategic acquisitions, we’ve always taken a  
patient approach and focused on areas where we can leverage  
distinct competitive advantages within our primary geographic 
footprints. All of our acquisitions have fit with this approach, including 
our investment this year in McLean & Partners Wealth Management. 
Expanding the scope of our wealth management business is 
something we will continue to look at going forward. In addition to 
providing growth opportunities and revenue diversification, wealth 
management is a natural complement to our core service offerings in 
business banking, where personal relationships are crucial. Adding scale 
to our operations in equipment financing and leasing is also of interest, 
and we have been active in acquiring portfolios in this area throughout 
the last few years. In general, we’ll remain conservative in pursuing 
acquisitions. In our view, if the price is too high, we’re happy to be 
patient and continue delivering strong organic growth.

CWB Group is making significant investments in infrastructure 
and technology to position itself for future growth. Can you provide  
some detail on these investments, and what you expect to gain 
from them?

Replacement of our core banking system is by far the largest scale 
technology investment we’ve ever embarked upon. I’m happy  
to report that the design and installation of the new system is 
proceeding on-time and on-budget, with implementation anticipated  
in 2015. Benefits from this and other technology investments will  
mainly come from increased efficiencies, allowing our staff to spend  
less time on paperwork and more time focusing on meeting client 
needs. We expect that better and more timely access to relevant data 
will meaningfully improve our delivery of products and services, as well  
as our ability to offer competitive, profitable financial solutions based  
on individual client circumstances. It will also enhance our ability to   
manage risk at a more granular level, respond to regulatory change,  
and eventually facilitate migration to an advanced approach for 
calculating risk-weighted assets. Clearly, the expected long-term  
benefits of these technology investments are significant. 

We also continued to invest in physical infrastructure in 2013.  
We added an equipment financing office in Lloydminster, Alberta,  
and relocated our branches in Regina and Yorkton, Saskatchewan  
to increase our footprint in those areas. In Yorkton, previously one  
of our few “retail-only” branches, we broadened our offering to  
include CWB’s full suite of business and personal banking services. 
Construction is well underway on our new Edmonton Main Branch 
premises, with relocation scheduled for the first half of 2014.  
This new space is impressive and much better suited to accommodate 
the amount of business we generate from this flagship branch.

Could you summarize your current business outlook for  
CWB Group with reference to your view of the economy?

Most of our business has been built around serving small and  
mid-market commercial entrepreneurs in Western Canada. While our 
client base today is quite diverse, and the level of activity within specific 
sectors is important, overall economic trends in Western Canada have 
the biggest impact on our outlook. With that in mind, we think our core 
markets continue to show potential for strong growth. Forecasters are 
projecting that activity in the western provinces will continue to lead the 
country over the next few years. Consensus economic expectations are 
calling for a relatively stable environment for commodity prices, which 
further supports a positive outlook for Western Canada. We expect this 
will also provide a solid foundation for ongoing growth in our core lines 
of business. We’re encouraged by the overall outlook, and very excited 
about our future as a growing group of companies. 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

5

 
 “ We believe a board’s most 
important duties are supporting 
a culture of ethical behaviour, 
getting the right management 
team in place, and working with 
management to define strategic 
objectives that properly balance  
risk and reward.”

Message from the Chair,  
Allan Jackson

An effective Board of Directors fulfils many important functions,  
such as ensuring that adequate controls are in place, regulations 
are followed, and reporting is complete and accurate. However, we 
believe our Board’s most important duties are supporting a culture of 
ethical behaviour, getting the right management team in place, and 
working with management to define strategic objectives that properly 
balance risk and reward. 

CWB Group’s track record of strong growth is extraordinary.  
Our ability to grow profitably in challenging market conditions is a 
testament to great leadership, a strong organizational culture and 
effective strategy. This year was no exception. We delivered another year 
of record financial performance, surpassing each of our annual targets 
for growth, efficiency and profitability despite the persistent challenges 
of low interest rates and competitive factors within our markets.  

My goal as Chair is to ensure the effectiveness of the Board in 
each of our oversight functions and to set the appropriate tone for 
achievement of CWB Group’s strategic direction. In line with this, 
we are determined to ensure CWB Group has the right people and 
the necessary infrastructure to bring its strategy to life. This means 
supporting the organization’s ongoing evolution from the small, 
regional bank it was in the 1990s to the larger and more diversified 
financial services institution it has become today. I am pleased to 
report that we are continuing to build momentum in this regard.  
We believe our clients increasingly view CWB Group as a highly valued 
strategic financial partner within each of our complementary business 
lines. We are also working to deepen our relationships with existing 
clients through an expanded offering of financial services. 

We are confident that CWB Group’s vision – to be seen as crucial 
to our clients’ futures – is the right one to move the organization 
forward. As a Board, our job is to make certain we stay on track.  

A review of the governance framework:  
Ensuring effective oversight

Notwithstanding our focus on guiding strategy, the Board  
continually evaluates changing standards and best practices of 
corporate governance as we work to build on our culture of ethical 
conduct and accountability. We engage with CWB Group’s regulators 
and work proactively to assess potential impacts to understand 
the requirements and rationale of regulatory change, and develop 
responses accordingly. 

6 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

CWB Group’s principal regulator, the Office of the Superintendent 
of Financial Institutions (OSFI), finalized revisions to its guideline for 
corporate governance in January of this year. The revised guideline 
reinforces OSFI’s emphasis on effective risk management as a primary 
aspect of governance best practices. Our Board has been focused 
on risk governance for a number of years, and management has 
made significant progress toward alignment of all risk management 
practices through an enterprise-wide risk framework. The intent of 
this framework is to ensure we maintain a comprehensive, group-
wide approach to risk by articulating our risk appetite and clarifying 
independent oversight of the risk management function. 

A review of executive compensation:  
Ensuring alignment with the long-term interests of shareholders 

One of the Board’s most important responsibilities is to make  
certain that the interests of senior executives are aligned with those 
of shareholders, while also ensuring executives are properly and fairly 
compensated for their contributions. To encourage decision-making 
that aligns with the interests of shareholders, directors and senior 
officers are required to maintain a minimum level of common share 
ownership. To ensure compensation is competitive and fair, the Human 
Resources Committee sought the advice of an independent executive 
compensation expert this year. The independent advisor reported to 
the Committee on market compensation practices, including short- 
and long-term incentives. The introduction of a performance share 
unit to the long-term incentive plan for executives in 2014 will be a 
notable outcome of this engagement. The performance share unit 
will represent a meaningful portion of the total long-term incentive 
for both the CEO and other named executive officers. We believe this 
change further enhances the alignment of executive compensation 
with shareholder interests, while providing fair and attractive long-
term incentives for management.

Succession planning:  
Ensuring stability of leadership

Much of CWB Group’s success can be attributed to exceptional 
leadership. For 23 years, the organization benefited from Larry 
Pollock’s unfailing belief in its potential and his ambitious vision  
for its future. Long before Larry’s retirement in March 2013, planning  
for the selection of a new President and CEO was an area of particular 
focus for the Board. Larry developed an extraordinary legacy during 
his tenure, and we were determined to identify the strongest possible 
successor. I am very happy to say that the Group’s performance during 
Chris Fowler’s first year as President and CEO reinforced the confidence 
we expressed in selecting him. It’s abundantly clear that Chris possesses 
the qualities our employees, clients, and investors expect of our chief 
executive, and that he is the right choice to lead CWB Group forward. 

The ongoing evolution of the Board:  
Ensuring effective governance

Planning for succession is as important at the director level as  
it is for management. Through a regular self-evaluation process, 
the Board assesses skills and competencies represented through 
its membership. Where gaps are identified, or where they are 
expected to emerge through retirement, our objective is to augment 
our Board with highly qualified business leaders who share our 
values, but will also challenge the status quo in their desire for 
continuous improvement. This year, for example, we bid farewell to 
Gerald McGavin, a Board member who served with us since 1989. 
The Board and all CWB Group stakeholders benefited significantly 
from Mr. McGavin’s guidance and contributions to the growth and 
success of this organization. At the same time, we were pleased to 
welcome Andrew Bibby to the team. Among his many attributes, 
Mr. Bibby brings a wealth of specialized knowledge in the real estate 
development sector. 

Coinciding with his appointment to CEO, Chris Fowler replaced  
Larry Pollock as our only non-independent director. We continue to 
benefit from Larry’s tremendous experience through his two-year 
agreement to serve as a special advisor to the Board.

Looking ahead

This is a very exciting time for CWB Group. We have a new leader 
with a strong vision for the organization’s future and a clearly 
defined strategy for how to achieve it. At the same time, we remain 
committed to maintaining the unique culture that has defined us 
through our first three decades. I am excited to continue working 
closely with the rest of our Board and the senior management team 
to profitably grow all of our businesses, and ensure responsible, long-
term value creation for CWB shareholders. The opportunity before us 
is significant. While there is still much work to do and many challenges 
to overcome, I know we have the people and the resources in place to 
achieve our collective goals. 

Sincerely,

Allan Jackson 
Chair of the Board 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

7

 
 
Governance Structure,
Updates and Initiatives

At CWB Group, we strive to earn the trust of our stakeholders  
through high standards of corporate governance and have  
embedded rigorous oversight and governance practices into  
our business processes. We work continuously to enhance and 
improve our governance practices with the recognition that this 
commitment directly contributes to the creation of long-term 
shareholder value and the sound functioning of our organization. 

The Board of Directors (the Board) is responsible for the overall 
stewardship of CWB Group, including the development and  
monitoring of CWB Group’s governance structure, review and 
approval of the risk management framework, and for fostering  
a culture of ethical conduct and accountability.

Risk Management

The Board plays an integral role in CWB Group’s risk management 
processes and directly oversees risk management to ensure a 
comprehensive approach to risk. As part of this oversight, the Board 
approves the enterprise risk management framework to ensure that 
policies and procedures are in place to measure and manage material 
risk exposures. As part of the risk management framework, CWB’s 
management provides the Board with quarterly updates on the 
framework and risk observations. 

Board Independence and Effectiveness

Members of the Board have been carefully selected for their  
judgment, integrity, leadership ability and general business  
expertise, as well as their knowledge of financial services and/or  
key geographic markets and businesses in which CWB Group  
operates. During fiscal 2013, the Board was comprised of fourteen 
business and community leaders whose diverse backgrounds and 
experiences are invaluable in the guidance and monitoring of CWB 
Group’s strategy and implementation. Thirteen of the fourteen  
directors are independent, with Mr. Fowler, CWB’s President and 
CEO, serving as the only non-independent member. 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 has developed a Board skills  
and competency evaluation process, the results of which are  
reviewed annually and integrated with the overall Board succession 
plan. In addition, in alternating years, the effectiveness of the  
Board and the contributions of individual directors are assessed  
to ensure that the Board maintains an appropriate complement  
of skills, experiences and qualifications. In fiscal 2013, the Board  
also enhanced this assessment process to require the assistance  
of external advisors on a regular basis.

8 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

Governance Structure

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 Board committee, as well as the Board 
mandate, are available in the Corporate Governance section of the 
CWB Group website: cwb.com.

Board of 
Directors

Audit  
Committee

  Governance 
Committee

Human  
Resources  
Committee 

Loans  
Committee

Board Committees

•	  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 financial reporting, 
this Committee is also responsible for overseeing CWB Group’s 
internal controls.

•	  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.  
This 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.

 
 
 
2013 Board of Directors from left to right: Ian M. Reid, Robert L. Phillips, Raymond J. Protti, Wendy A. Leaney, Alan M. Rowe, Chris H. Fowler, H. Sanford Riley, Allan W. Jackson 
(Chair), Arnold J. Shell, Andrew Bibby, Linda M.O. Hohol, Howard E. Pechet, Robert A. Manning, Albrecht W.A. Bellstedt.

Ethical Conduct

Compensation Programs

At CWB Group, ethical conduct is not only a legal and regulatory 
requirement, but a core value that facilitates the development 
of strong relationships with clients and other stakeholders in the 
communities where we operate.

Codes of conduct for all directors, officers and employees are  
in place and must be reviewed annually with certification from  
each individual that he or she has abided by the code. CWB  
Group’s whistleblower policy allows for the anonymous reporting  
of complaints and concerns. All concerns and complaints, however 
raised, are investigated and appropriate action taken.

CWB Group’s director and executive compensation  
policies are strongly aligned with governance best practices.  
For the past three 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 independent compensation advisors. In addition,  
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. 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

9

 
Proactive Approach to Governance

CWB Group takes a proactive approach to ensuring  
best practices in corporate governance, and the Board  
is committed to continuous improvement of governance  
policies and procedures. A few best practices recently  
adopted by the Board include the:

•	  introduction of a compensation recoupment (i.e. clawback) 

policy to discourage short-term decision-making and excessive 
risk taking;

•	  retention of a compensation consultant to ensure director and 
executive compensation are aligned with best practices; and,

•	  requirement that the Board and each Board committee  
have in camera sessions without management present.

For more information

To encourage open dialogue with shareholders, the Board  
can be contacted directly about corporate governance issues by 
emailing chairoftheboard@cwbank.com. Detailed information 
about CWB Group’s governance practices is available in the 
Corporate Governance section of CWB Group’s website:  
cwb.com.

Shareholders are also welcome to attend CWB Group’s  
annual shareholder meeting in March 2014 to meet with 
directors and senior management, and hear about CWB  
Group’s future direction. Shareholders wishing to attend the 
annual shareholder meeting are encouraged to review CWB 
Group’s Management Proxy Circular for information on how  
they can attend and participate.

Board of Directors  
(October 31, 2013) 

•	

 Albrecht W.A. Bellstedt, Q.C. 
President, A.W.A.  
Bellstedt Professional 
Corporation

•	  Andrew Bibby 

CEO & Director, Grosvenor 
Americas Partners

•	  Chris H. Fowler  
President & CEO,  
Canadian Western Bank

•	  Linda M.O. Hohol, FICB 

Corporate Director

•	  Allan W. Jackson (Chair) 
President & CEO, ARCI Ltd.

•	  Wendy A. Leaney, FICB 
President, Wyoming  
Associates Ltd.

•	  Robert A. Manning 
President, Cathton  
Investments Ltd.

•	  Howard E. Pechet 
President, Mayfield  
Consulting Inc.

•	  Robert L. Phillips, Q.C. 
President, R.L. Phillips 
Investments Inc.

•	  Raymond J. Protti, ICD.D 

Corporate Director

•	  Ian M. Reid 

Corporate Director

•	  H. Sanford Riley, C.M. 
President & CEO,  
Richardson Financial  
Group Limited

•	  Alan M. Rowe, CPA, CA 

Partner, Crown  
Realty Partners

•	   Arnold J. Shell 

President, Arnold J. Shell 
Consulting Inc.

10 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

Management’s Discussion and Analysis (MD&A)

TABLE OF CONTENTS
BUSINESS PROFILE AND STRATEGY  11

FORWARD-LOOkING STATEMENTS 

TAXABLE EQUIVALENT BASIS (TEB) 

NON-GAAP MEASURES 

12

13

13

GROUP FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE  14

OVERVIEW 

NET INTEREST INCOME 

OTHER INCOME 

NON-INTEREST EXPENSES 
AND EFFICIENCY

INCOME TAXES 

COMPREHENSIVE INCOME 

CASH AND SECURITIES 

LOANS 

CREDIT QUALITY 

ALLOWANCE FOR CREDIT LOSSES 

DEPOSITS 

14

17

18

20 

22

22

23

23

27

29

30

OTHER ASSETS AND OTHER LIABILITIES  32

LIQUIDITY MANAGEMENT 

CAPITAL MANAGEMENT 

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND  
OTHER INSTRUMENTS 

ACQUISITION 

OFF-BALANCE SHEET  

SUMMARY OF QUARTERLY 
RESULTS AND FOURTH QUARTER

QUARTERLY RESULTS 

FOURTH QUARTER OF 2013 

ACCOUNTING POLICIES 
AND ESTIMATES

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES 

FUTURE CHANGES IN  
ACCOUNTING POLICIES

RISK MANAGEMENT  

RISk MANAGEMENT OVERVIEW 

32

35

40

40

40

41 

41

42

43 

43

45 

46

46

CREDIT RISk  

MARkET RISk 

LIQUIDITY AND FUNDING RISk  

CAPITAL RISk 

OPERATIONAL RISk 

REGULATORY RISk 

REPUTATION RISk 

INSURANCE RISk  

OTHER RISk FACTORS 

UPDATED SHARE INFORMATION 

CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES 

50

52

54

57

57

59

59

59

60

61

61

BUSINESS PROFILE AND STRATEGY

Canadian Western Bank (TSX:CWB) offers a diverse range of  
financial services and is the largest publicly traded Schedule 1  
Canadian bank headquartered in Western Canada. The Bank, along 
with its subsidiaries and operating divisions – National Leasing 
Group Inc. (National Leasing), Optimum Mortgage, Canadian Direct 
Financial (CDF), Canadian Western Trust Company (CWT), Valiant Trust 
Company (Valiant), Canadian Direct Insurance Incorporated (CDI), 
Adroit Investment Management Ltd. (Adroit), McLean & Partners 
Wealth Management Ltd. (McLean & Partners) and Canadian 
Western Financial Ltd. (CWF) – are together known as Canadian 
Western Bank Group (CWB or CWB Group).

CWB currently operates in the financial services areas of banking, 
trust, insurance and wealth management. With a focus on mid-
market commercial banking, real estate and construction financing, 
equipment financing and energy lending, the Bank’s 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 to all banking services is primarily provided through a network 
of 41 client-focused branches in select locations across the four 
western provinces. 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. CDI provides personal auto and home 
insurance to customers in British Columbia (BC) and Alberta. Adroit 
offers discretionary wealth management for individuals, corporations 
and institutional clients, while McLean & Partners specializes in 
discretionary wealth management primarily for high net-worth 
individuals. Third-party mutual funds are offered in bank branches 
through CWF, CWB’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  

consistent 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 a targeted, cohesive and growth-focused  
group of companies.

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

11

 
CWB’s overall strategic direction is based on two overriding themes: 

•	 “Do what we do, only better”

•	 “Make the whole worth more than the sum of the parts”

Objectives within the strategic direction are further guided  
by four inter-related financial goals:

•	 Ensure growth is profitable and accretive to earnings per share

•	 Grow and diversify funding sources

•	

Increase revenue diversification

•	 Control growth of non-interest expenses

CWB’s approach to strategic management recognizes that the 
development and implementation of strategies cannot be undertaken 
in isolation, but need to be part of a cross-functional, group-wide 
process. The intent is to focus on key business drivers that contribute 
the greatest impact toward the achievement of CWB’s vision, mission 
and goals, and are represented by both financial and non-financial 
measures. The four inter-dependent pillars of the strategic direction 
are summarized as follows:

People

Support

Nurture the organizational culture, promote 
teamwork, and enhance the depth and breadth  
of internal relationships.

Enable continuous development, growth  
and improvement by adding required levels  
of capacity, efficiency and stability.

Clients

Provide targeted client solutions and enhance  
the depth and breadth of external relationships.

Financial

Ensure strong profitability, growth, value, 
efficiency and diversification.

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 CWB, including the Annual 
Information Form, is available on SEDAR at sedar.com and  
on CWB’s website at cwb.com.

FORWARD-LOOkING STATEMENTS

From time to time, CWB makes written and verbal forward-looking 
statements. Statements of this type are included in the Annual Report 
and reports to shareholders and may be included in filings with Canadian 
securities regulators or in other communications such as press releases 
and corporate presentations. Forward-looking statements include, but 
are not limited to, statements about CWB’s objectives and strategies, 
targeted and expected financial results and the outlook for CWB’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 management’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 CWB’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, the occurrence of weather-related and other 
natural catastrophes, changes in accounting standards and policies, 
the accuracy and completeness of information CWB 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 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 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 CWB’s actual results to differ materially 
from the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements. 
Unless required by securities law, CWB 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.

12 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

Assumptions about the performance of the Canadian economy in  
2014 and how it will affect CWB’s businesses are material factors 
considered when setting organizational objectives and targets. 
Performance target ranges for fiscal 2014 consider the following 
management assumptions:

•	  A modest acceleration of economic growth in Canada and  
relatively stronger performance in the four western provinces

•	  Prices for energy and other commodities remaining at levels 

comparable with those observed at October 31, 2013

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, 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:

•	  Sound credit quality with actual losses remaining within  

•	  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 charge for the 
fair value of contingent consideration (the exclusions represent  
non-cash charges 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 charge for the fair 
value of contingent consideration

•	  Net interest margin – net interest income divided by average 

total assets

•	  Basel II Tier 1 and total capital adequacy ratios – in accordance  
with guidelines issued by the Office of the Superintendent of 
Financial Institutions Canada (OSFI)

•	  Basel III common equity Tier 1, Tier 1 and total capital ratios –  

in accordance with guidelines issued by OSFI

•	 Average balances – average daily balances

CWB’s historical range of acceptable levels

•	  A relatively stable net interest margin attributed to favourable 

deposit costs and shifts in asset mix that help to offset impacts from 
the very low interest rate environment and competitive factors 

Potential risks that would have a material adverse impact on  
current economic expectations and forecasts include a global  
recession spurred by a return to negative growth in the euro zone,  
a material slowdown of economic growth in the United States  
and/or China, or a significant and sustained deterioration in Canadian 
residential real estate prices. Unexpected pricing competition and/or 
disruptions in domestic or global financial markets that meaningfully 
impact the costs of overall deposit funding may also contribute to 
adverse financial results compared to expectations. 

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 2013 adjustment  
to taxable equivalent basis of $8.1 million (2012 – $9.1 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 International Financial 
Reporting Standards (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.

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

13

 
GROUP FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE

OVERVIEW

Highlights of 2013 (compared to 2012)

•	  Record net income available to common shareholders of 

•	 Efficiency ratio (teb) of 45.9%, up 110 basis points

$187.2 million, up 9% 

•	  Strong loan growth of 12%, marking the achievement  
of double-digit loan growth in 23 of the past 24 years

•	  Total assets and assets under administration surpassed 
milestones of $18 billion and $8 billion, respectively

•	  On April 30, 2013, marked the achievement of 100  

•	  Record diluted earnings per common share of $2.35,  

consecutive profitable quarters

up 6% (record adjusted cash earnings per common share 
of $2.39, up 4%)

•	 Record total revenues (teb) of $572.5 million, up 9%

•	  Solid Basel III capital ratios under the Standardized approach 
for calculating risk-weighted assets of 8.0% common equity  
Tier 1 (CET1), 9.7% Tier 1, and 13.9% total capital

•	 Net interest margin (teb) of 2.70%, down nine basis points

•	  Cash dividends paid to common shareholders of $0.70 per  

•	  Solid credit quality as evidenced by low write-offs and a 

consistent provision for credit losses measured as a percentage  
of average loans of 19 basis points

•	  Return on common shareholders’ equity of 14.1%,  

down 90 basis points

•	 Return on assets of 1.06%, down two basis points

share, up 13%

•	  Invested in 55% ownership of McLean & Partners  

Wealth Management

•	  Obtained initial credit ratings of ‘R-1 (low)’ on short-term  
debt and ‘Pfd-3 (high)’ on preferred shares from DBRS  
Limited (DBRS), both with stable trends

Table 1 – Select Annual Financial Information (1)
($ thousands, except per share amounts)

Key Performance Indicators 

Net income available to common shareholders 

$ 

187,163 

$ 

172,197 

$ 

149,538 

$ 

14,966 

9 %

2013  

2012  

2011 

$ 

%

Change from 2012

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) 

Total revenues 

Total assets 

Debt 

Dividends per common share 

2.36 

2.35 

2.39 

2.24 

2.22 

2.30 

2.07 

1.95 

2.17 

0.12 

0.13 

0.09 

5

6

4

0.19 % 

0.19 % 

0.19 % 

- bp(2)

2.70 

2.65 

45.9 

46.5 

14.1 

1.06 

2.79 

2.73 

44.8 

45.6 

15.0 

1.08 

2.99 

2.91 

44.9 

45.9 

14.7 

1.09 

$ 

572,483 

$ 

525,482 

$ 

483,555 

$ 

564,345 

516,339 

472,496 

47,001 

48,006 

  18,520,260 

  16,873,269 

  14,849,141 

1,646,991 

820,650 

0.70 

634,273 

0.62 

634,877 

0.54 

186,377 

0.08 

(9)

(8)

110

90

(90)

(2)

9 %

9

10

29

13

(1) See page 13 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.

14 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income available to common shareholders increased 9%  
($15.0 million) over 2012 to a record $187.2 million, while  
diluted earnings per common share of $2.35 ($2.36 basic) was up 
6% from $2.22 ($2.24 basic). Adjusted cash earnings per share, 
which is diluted earnings per common share excluding the after-tax 
amortization of acquisition-related intangible assets and the  
non-tax deductible charge for the fair value of contingent consideration,  
was $2.39, up 4%. Record total revenues (teb) of $572.5 million 
increased 9% reflecting 8% ($33.9 million) growth in net interest 
income (teb) and 16% ($13.1 million) higher other income.  
Growth in net interest income was driven by the benefit of strong  
loan growth, partially offset by the impact of a nine basis point 
reduction in net interest margin (teb) to 2.70%. Margin contraction 
in the year mainly reflected lower yields on loans, partially offset by 
improved fixed term deposit costs. Lower loan yields primarily resulted 
from the combined impact of the sustained very low interest rate 
environment and ongoing competitive pressures. Solid credit quality 
was maintained throughout the year, and the provision for credit  
losses remained unchanged at 19 basis points of average loans. 

The efficiency ratio (teb) of 45.9% deteriorated 110 basis points 
from last year as the benefit of strong percentage growth in total 
revenues was more than offset by an 11% ($25.9 million) increase 
in non-interest expenses. The increase in non-interest expenses was 
mainly attributed to investments in additional staff complement, 
infrastructure and technology to support current and future  
business growth. 

Return on common shareholders’ equity of 14.1% was down  
90 basis points while return on assets decreased two basis points 
to 1.06%. The decrease in return on common shareholders’ equity 
largely resulted from the impact of margin compression and additional 
CWB common shares outstanding from the 2012 settlement of 
contingent consideration associated with the 2010 acquisition of 
National Leasing. Total cash dividends paid to common shareholders  
of $0.70 per share increased 13% from $0.62 per share paid in the 
prior year, and resulted in a dividend payout ratio of 30% of total  
net income available to common shareholders. 

Total assets increased 10% to reach $18,520 million driven by  
strong loan growth. Total branch-raised deposits increased 7%  
($586 million), while the demand and notice component within 
branch-raised deposits was up 12% ($551 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  
10% ($1,381 million) in the year to reach $15,526 million, and 
included increases in fixed term notes issued in the debt capital 
markets and personal fixed rate term deposits raised through the 
deposit broker network of $50 million and $496 million, respectively. 
During the first quarter, DBRS Limited issued an initial rating of  
“R-1 (low)” with a stable trend on CWB’s short-term debt, enabling 
access to an additional source of funding through debt capital markets 
with the issuance of bearer deposit notes (BDNs). CWB formally 
announced its BDN program in July with an internally authorized 
limit of $500 million, $254 million of which was outstanding at 
year end. Total branch-raised deposits represented 56% of total 
deposits at October 31, 2013, compared to 57% a year earlier. 
The demand and notice component comprised 32% of total deposits, 
unchanged. The ratio of total deposits to total loans at October 31, 
2013 was 1:1, relatively unchanged from a year earlier.  

The maintenance of solid capital levels is fundamental to CWB’s 
objectives to effectively manage risks and support strong growth.  
The Basel III common equity Tier 1 (CET1), Tier 1 and total capital 
ratios at October 31, 2013 of 8.0%, 9.7% and 13.9%, respectively, 
were above both internal and regulatory minimums. CWB’s minimum 
Basel III regulatory capital ratios, which include a 250 basis point 
capital conservation buffer, are 7.0% CET1 effective January 2013, and 
8.5% Tier 1 and 10.5% total capital, both effective January 2014.

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

15

 
Performance Targets and Outlook

Table 2 – 2013 Minimum Performance Targets and 2014 Target Ranges (1)

Net income available to common shareholders growth 

Adjusted cash earnings per common share growth 

Total revenue (teb) growth 

Loan growth 

Provision for credit losses as a percentage of average loans 

Efficiency ratio (teb) 

Return on common shareholders’ equity 

Return on assets 

(1) See page 13 for a discussion of non-GAAP measures. 
(2) n/a – not applicable

CWB met or exceeded all of its fiscal 2013 minimum 
performance targets with revenue and earnings growth  
largely driven by strong 12% loan growth. Measured in dollars, 
the strongest loan growth by lending sector was in equipment 
financing and leasing, followed by real estate project loans and 
commercial mortgages. Growth in both total revenues (teb) 
and net income available to common shareholders of 9% was 
constrained by the impact of both a nine basis point reduction in 
net interest margin. An 11% increase in non-interest expenses 
was an additional constraint on both growth in net income 
available to common shareholders and the efficiency ratio. 
Overall credit quality was stable and the provision for credit 
losses was near the low end of the target range at 19 basis 
points of average loans. The return on common shareholders’ 
equity and return on assets were both marginally above the 
respective minimum targets at 14.1% and 1.06%. The efficiency 
ratio (teb) of 45.9% met the 2013 target of 46% or less. 

Fiscal 2014 performance target ranges, as shown in the table 
above, are based on expectations for a modest acceleration 
in economic growth in Canada and comparatively stronger 
performance within key western Canadian markets. The change 
in 2014 to a growth target for adjusted cash earnings per share 
reflects management’s view that this is a better overall measure 
of shareholder value creation compared to net income available 
to common shareholders. Growth in adjusted cash earnings 
per share is expected to benefit from a combination of revenue 
growth, a more efficient regulatory capital structure, stable 
credit quality, disciplined management of non-interest expenses 
and relatively consistent profitability. Revenue growth will 
largely be driven by ongoing lending activity and the anticipated 
achievement of another year of double-digit loan growth.  
CWB 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 very low 
interest rates and competitive influences. Recognizing the 
challenges of achieving improvement in net interest margin from 
the current level, growth in total revenues will continue to be 
constrained compared to what would be expected in a rising or 
higher interest rate environment. The provision for credit losses 
is targeted between 18 and 23 basis points of average loans and 
reflects expectations that overall credit quality will remain sound. 
Based on anticipated revenue growth and planned business 
investment, the target 2014 efficiency ratio (teb) is 46% or less.  
Profitability targets measured by the return on common 
shareholders’ equity and return on assets are relatively consistent 
with performance in 2013. 

2013
  Minimum 
Targets 

2013 
 Performance 

2014
 Target Ranges

8 % 

9 % 

n/a 

8 

10 

  0.18 – 0.23 

46 or less 

14.0 

1.05 

n/a 

9 

12 

0.19 

45.9 

14.1 

1.06 

n/a (2)

12 – 16 %

9 – 11

10 – 12

  0.18 – 0.23

46 or less

  14.0 – 15.0

  1.05 – 1.15

The rate of growth in adjusted cash earnings per share  
is partly dependent on CWB’s regulatory capital structure.  
A special resolution will be voted upon on December 12, 2013 
at a concurrent special meeting of common and preferred 
shareholders. If approved, the special resolution will amend  
CWB’s By-law Three to permit an unlimited number of First 
Preferred shares to be issued, to a maximum aggregate 
outstanding consideration of $1,000 million; terms of the  
existing By-law Three precludes CWB from issuing any preferred 
shares in the future. On April 30, 2014, unless the outstanding 
Series 3 preferred shares are redeemed by CWB, subject to 
approval of the Office of the Superintendent of Financial 
Institutions Canada (OSFI), the corresponding dividend yield will 
reset to a rate of 500 basis points over the yield on the applicable 
Government of Canada benchmark security. In consideration of 
the current capital market environment and CWB’s investment 
grade credit rating, management and the Board of Directors 
believe it is in the best interests of common shareholders to 
redeem these shares. However, in order to maintain CWB’s Tier 1  
regulatory capital ratio above internal thresholds, the issuance 
of qualifying replacement capital will be required prior to the 
anticipated redemption date. In addition to uncertainty about 
the results of the special resolution voting, the public market for 
preferred shares which qualify as Basel III non-viability contingent 
capital (NVCC) has yet to be established in Canada. The 2014 
performance target ranges for growth in adjusted cash earnings 
per share and the return on common shareholders’ equity assume 
existing preferred shares are redeemed and replaced, to the 
extent required, with comparatively lower cost capital. Without 
both an amendment to By-law Three and a successful issuance 
of qualifying NVCC preferred shares, CWB’s only option to raise 
replacement capital would be to issue common shares.

The ongoing development of each of CWB Group’s businesses 
will remain a key priority to achieve continued strong performance 
for shareholders. Potential acquisitions that are both strategic and 
accretive for common shareholders will also be closely evaluated. 
With its solid capital position under the more conservative 
Standardized approach for calculating risk-weighted assets,  
CWB will remain well 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. The overall outlook for 2014 and beyond is positive. 

16 

CWB Group 2013 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 2013

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

$477.5 million based on 11% growth in average total  
interest bearing assets

•	  Net interest margin (teb) of 2.70% was down nine basis  
points mainly reflecting the impact of the persistent very  
low interest rate environment and competitive factors

Table 3 – Net Interest Income (teb) (1)
($ thousands)

2013 

2012

  Average 
Balance 

Mix 

Interest 

 Interest 
Rate 

Average 
Balance 

Mix 

Interest 

Interest 
Rate

Assets

Cash, securities and deposits with

regulated financial institutions 

$  2,506,616 

14 %  $ 

54,410 

2.17 %  $  2,227,457 

14 % 

$ 

53,849 

2.42 %

- 

14 

70 

84 

98 

2 

289 

0.97   

124,935 

94,862 

4.00   

  2,156,539 

640,542 

735,404 

790,103 

5.16   

  11,049,681 

4.97   

  13,206,220 

4.56   

  15,558,612 

- 

0.00   

319,493 

1 

13 

70 

83 

98 

2 

1,231 

0.99

87,111 

599,423 

686,534 

741,614 

- 

4.04

5.42

5.20

4.77

0.00

$ 17,680,347 

100 %  $  790,103 

4.47 %  $ 15,878,105 

100 % 

$  741,614 

4.67 %

Securities purchased under  

resale agreements 

29,701 

Loans

Personal 

Business 

Total interest bearing assets 

Other assets 

Total Assets 

Liabilities

Deposits

Personal 

Business and government 

Other liabilities 

Debt 

Shareholders’ equity 

Non-controlling interests 

  2,371,920 

  12,419,831 

  14,791,751 

  17,328,068 

352,279 

$ 9,206,767 

  5,519,044 

 14,725,811 

484,286 

830,284 

  1,534,464 

105,502 

52 %  $  201,170 

2.19 % 

$ 8,683,061 

55 % 

$  208,929 

2.41 %

31 

83 

3 

5 

8 

1 

78,956 

1.43   

  4,627,038 

280,126 

43 

32,433 

1.90   

0.01   

3.91   

13,310,099 

474,329 

632,132 

- 

- 

0.00   

  1,356,306 

0.00   

105,239 

29 

84 

3 

4 

8 

1 

60,782 

269,711 

61 

28,270 

- 

- 

1.31

2.03

0.01

4.47

0.00

0.00

1.88 %

2.79 %

Total Liabilities and Equity 

$ 17,680,347 

100 %  $  312,602 

1.77 % 

$ 15,878,105 

100 % 

$  298,042 

Total Assets/Net Interest Income 

$ 17,680,347 

  $  477,501 

2.70 % 

$ 15,878,105 

$  443,572 

(1) See page 13 for a discussion of teb and other non-GAAP measures.

Net interest income (teb) increased 8% ($33.9 million) to reach  
a record $477.5 million driven by 11% ($1,769 million) growth 
in average interest bearing assets, with the percentage difference 
reflecting the impact of a nine basis point reduction in net interest 
margin (teb) to 2.70%. Growth in average interest bearing assets 
resulted from a combination of strong 12% ($1,586 million) growth 
in average total loans and a 13% ($279 million) increase in average 
liquid assets. The change in net interest margin mainly resulted 
from the combined impact of ongoing very low interest rates and 
competitive factors, and is reflected in a 23 basis point lower yield on 
average loans, partially offset by a 13 basis point reduction in average 
total deposit costs. The yield on average cash, securities and deposits 
with regulated financial institutions was down 25 basis points, 

primarily reflecting CWB’s strategy to reduce the duration of its portfolio 
of liquid assets and the repositioning of a portion of its investments in 
preferred shares. The quarterly net interest margin (teb) stabilized in the 
latter half of 2013 around the mid point of the two years noted above. 

Generally, 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 
CWB’s assets. The prime rate was maintained at 3.00% throughout 
the year and has been unchanged since the Bank of Canada last 
increased rates in September 2010. 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

17

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Outlook for Net Interest Income

Loan growth will continue to have a positive influence on  
net interest income, but the combination of the persistent  
very low interest rate environment and competitive factors 
is expected to constrain any meaningful improvement in net 
interest margin from that realized in 2013. The current interest 
rate environment diminishes the incremental benefit of low 
and no-cost deposits, as well as deposits that are less interest 
sensitive. A sustained upward slope in the interest rate curve 
would provide incremental benefits to margin from CWB’s 
growing base of core deposits that are less interest sensitive, 
while also providing a more meaningful positive differential 
between the incremental price on loans and the cost of  
matched funding based on the duration of certain portfolios. 

Changes in average liquidity also have an impact on net interest 
margin. Lower liquidity generally enhances margin, while the 
opposite is true when higher liquidity is maintained. Going forward, 
CWB expects average liquidity will remain relatively consistent with 
the level held in the latter half of 2013, which is slightly lower than 
the average for the full year. Competitive factors, particularly in 
certain business areas, result in lower overall loan pricing and CWB 
does not expect material changes in the competitive environment 
in the near term. Management believes net interest margin will 
continue to be constrained with the absence of increases in the 
prime lending interest rate and/or a significant and sustained 
steepening of the interest rate curve. Financial target ranges for 
2014 assume no change in the prime lending interest rate.  

OTHER INCOME

Highlights of 2013

•	  Other income of $95.0 million, up 16% despite a decline  

in net insurance revenues resulting from the impact on claims 
of catastrophic flooding in southern Alberta

•	  Other income represented 17% of total revenues (teb),  

up from 16% in 2012 

Table 4 – Other Income
($ thousands)

Insurance

Net earned premiums 

Commissions and processing fees 

Net claims and adjustment expenses 

Policy acquisition costs 

Net insurance revenues 

Trust and wealth management services 

Credit related 

Gains on securities, net 

Retail services 

Foreign exchange 

Contingent consideration fair value charge 

Other (1) 

Total Other Income 

2013  

2012  

$ 

%

Change from 2012

$ 

126,825 

$ 

123,204 

$ 

3,621 

3 %

1,787 

(87,008) 

(25,325) 

16,279 

24,511 

21,685 

15,094 

10,272 

3,059 

- 

4,082 

1,855 

(83,167) 

(24,539) 

17,353 

19,065 

19,705 

12,449 

9,227 

3,255 

(2,489) 

3,345 

(68) 

(3,841) 

(786) 

(1,074) 

5,446 

1,980 

2,645 

1,045 

(196) 

2,489 

737 

(4)

5

3

(6)

29

10

21

11

(6)

(100)

22

$ 

94,982 

$ 

81,910 

$ 

13,072 

16 %

(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.

18 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other income of $95.0 million was up 16% ($13.1 million) as  
the combined benefit of a $5.4 million increase in trust and wealth 
management income, $2.6 million higher net gains on securities 
and continued growth across other categories more than offset 
decreases in net insurance revenues and foreign exchange income. 
Very strong growth in trust and wealth management income resulted 
from the acquisition of McLean & Partners in the third quarter of 
2013, and was further supported by ongoing solid performance within 
trust services. Net gains on securities were well above expectations 
established early in 2013 owing to favourable market opportunities 
and the strategic repositioning of certain investments in preferred 
shares, common equities and government securities. The sale of 
certain securities issued by financial institutions, beginning in 2012 
and continuing into the first quarter of 2013, was a response to 
changes under the Basel III regulatory capital framework which 
requires a deduction from regulatory capital of amounts over a certain 
threshold for this type of investment.  

The elimination of charges for contingent consideration fair value 
changes in the third quarter of 2012 upon the settlement of a 
contingent liability related to the 2010 National Leasing acquisition 
resulted in a $2.5 million positive difference in other income. Growth 
in credit-related and retail services income of 10% ($2.0 million) and 
11% ($1.0 million), respectively, was consistent with strong lending 
and deposit activity. The 22% ($0.7 million) increase in the ‘other’ 
category of other income to $4.1 million mainly resulted from the 
sale of residential mortgage portfolios totaling $95 million (2012 
– $50 million). Net insurance revenues were down 6% ($1.1 million) 
as the positive impact of growth in net earned premiums was more 
than offset by increased claims expense related to catastrophic southern 
Alberta floods. 

Other income as a percentage of total revenues (net interest income 
and other income) was 17%, up from 16% in 2012. 

Outlook for Other Income

Solid growth is expected across most categories of other income 
reflecting CWB’s continued focus on enhancing transactional 
service capabilities 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 
a return to more normal claims experience and continued policy 
growth, increased volatility in net claims expense could result 
from severe weather-related events, as was the case in both 
2012 and 2013. Net gains on securities are expected to be much 
lower compared to 2013; however, the magnitude and timing of 
such gains are dependent on market factors that are difficult to 
predict. Generating additional other income through whole loan 
sales of residential mortgage portfolios remains an option and 
may be pursued as opportunities arise.  

CWT, including Optimum, and Valiant Trust each expect solid 
growth in 2014 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 across Canada. The material increase 
in trust and wealth management revenues in 2013 mainly 
resulted from CWB’s investment in McLean & Partners, and a 
full year contribution from this business will further benefit 
revenue growth in 2014. Ongoing growth in core wealth 
management revenues should also result from introducing 
discretionary investment services to more CWB banking clients. 
CWB maintains its long-term objective to grow non-interest 
revenues as a percentage of total revenues and will continue with 
initiatives to further develop and/or acquire additional sources of 
complementary fee-based business. 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

19

 
NON-INTEREST EXPENSES AND EFFICIENCY

Highlights of 2013

•	  An efficiency ratio (teb) of 45.9%, up 110 basis points compared to 2012, as growth in total revenues (teb) was more than offset 

by an 11% increase in non-interest expenses

Table 5 – Non-interest Expenses and Efficiency Ratio
($ thousands)

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 acquisition-related intangible assets 

Banking charges 

Travel 

Postage and stationery 

Regulatory costs 

Community investment 

Employee training 

Communications 

General insurance 

Capital and business taxes 

Other 

Total Non-interest Expenses 

Efficiency Ratio (teb) (1)(2) 

2013 

2012 

$ 

%

Change from 2012

$ 

144,200 

$ 

127,835 

$ 

16,365 

13 %

28,037 

172,237 

26,009 

153,844 

2,028 

18,393 

16,359 

5,938 

3,124 

25,421 

8,901 

8,503 

17,404 

7,104 

6,846 

4,627 

3,622 

2,726 

2,680 

2,659 

2,337 

1,908 

1,824 

1,035 

937 

9,130 

47,435 

15,738 

5,212 

3,115 

24,065 

8,108 

7,329 

15,437 

6,379 

6,746 

5,160 

3,253 

2,493 

2,630 

2,131 

2,095 

1,516 

1,770 

969 

676 

7,402 

43,220 

621 

726 

9 

1,356 

793 

1,174 

1,967 

725 

100 

(533) 

369 

233 

50 

528 

242 

392 

54 

66 

261 

1,728 

4,215 

8

12

4

14

-

6

10

16

13

11

1

(10)

11

9

2

25 

12

26

3

7

39

23

10

$ 

262,497 

$ 

236,566 

$ 

25,931 

11 %

45.9 % 

44.8 % 

110 bp (3)

(1) Non-interest expenses as a percentage of total revenues (net interest income (teb) plus other income) excluding the non-tax deductible charge for the fair value of contingent consideration. See page 13 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.

20 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total non-interest expenses of $262.5 million were up 11%  
($25.9 million) reflecting a 12% ($18.4 million) increase in salary 
and benefit costs due to a combination of higher staff complement 
and annual salary increments. Of the total increase in non-interest 
expenses, $2.8 million was attributed to McLean & Partners.  
The number of full-time equivalent employees (FTEs) grew 8%  
(152 FTEs) from October 31, 2012 to meet requirements for added  
client-facing services, corporate support and other business 
expansion. Premises and equipment expenses, including depreciation, 
increased 8% ($3.3 million) and reflect the impact of a new branch 
opened in Winnipeg, Manitoba during the fourth quarter  
of 2012, and the relocation and/or expansion of other branches  
and corporate office premises. The relocation of branches in  

Yorkton and Regina, Saskatchewan meaningfully expanded both 
business capacity and services available at these respective locations. 
Ongoing investment in technology infrastructure necessary to  
position CWB for future growth also contributed to the increase  
in non-interest expenses. General non-interest expenses were  
up 10% ($4.2 million) as increases in most areas, including  
$1.7 million higher ‘other’ expenses, more than offset lower 
amortization of acquisition-related intangible assets. The increase in 
‘other’ expenses mainly reflects the impacts of an operational loss, 
the cost of appraisals to assess the status of properties held as security 
on loans following catastrophic southern Alberta floods and certain 
expenses incurred by McLean & Partners.

Figure 1 – Number of Full-time Equivalent Staff

2013

2012

2011

2010

2009

+8%

+5%

+5%

2,037

1,885

1,796

+28%

1,716 (1)

1,339

 (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 
charge for the fair value of contingent consideration – was 45.9%, 

compared to 44.8% last year, as the rate of growth in non-interest 
expenses exceeded that of total revenues (teb). 

Outlook for Non-Interest Expenses and Efficiency

One of management’s key priorities is to maintain effective  
control of costs while ensuring CWB is positioned to deliver 
strong growth over the long term. Effective execution of CWB’s 
strategic plan will continue to require increased investment 
in certain areas. Significant anticipated expenditures relate to 
additional staff complement as well as expanded infrastructure 
and further technology upgrades. Investment in these areas 
is aligned with CWB’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 system implementation in 2015 based on a capital 
budget of $50 million. The core banking and other technology 
investments are expected to provide considerable efficiencies 
in the future, which include improving the turnaround time of 
credit approvals and affording relationship managers more time 
to assist clients. Certain technology investments, including loan 
origination systems and the future core banking system,  
will also improve data, portfolio and client relationship  

management capabilities. Compliance with an increasing level 
of regulation and oversight for all Canadian banks requires the 
investment of both time and resources, which further contributes 
to higher non-interest expenses. 

Major expansion plans for 2014 include the relocation of  
CWB’s flagship branch in Edmonton to a new, much larger 
location. 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, constrained  
net interest margin will continue to limit the potential for 
improvement in the efficiency ratio compared to 2013.  
Overall, the efficiency ratio in 2014 is expected to be  
maintained at 46% or better.

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

21

 
INCOME TAXES

The effective income tax rate (teb) was 25.6%, down 70 basis 
points from 2012, while the tax rate before the teb adjustment 
was 23.4%, or 20 basis points lower. Changes primarily reflect the 
non-tax deductible charge related to the 2012 fair value contingent 
consideration changes. Deferred tax assets and liabilities represent 
the cumulative amount of tax applicable to temporary differences 
between the carrying amount of assets and liabilities, and their values 
for tax purposes. CWB’s deferred income tax assets and liabilities relate 
primarily to the collective allowance for credit losses and intangible 
assets, 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 (2012 – $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.

Outlook for Income Taxes

CWB’s expected income tax rate (teb) for fiscal 2014 is approximately 26.2%, or 23.6% before the teb adjustment. The increase in the 
expected tax rate compared to the prior year reflects the full year impact of a 2013 change in the provincial income tax rate in BC.

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 fair value changes for derivative instruments designated 
as cash flow hedges. The 2013 increase in comprehensive income was 
driven by 8% ($15.5 million) higher net income, largely offset by a 

$14.2 million reduction in fair value, net of tax, of available-for-sale 
securities. 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 net income, net of tax 

Derivatives designated as cash flow hedges

Gains from change in fair value, net of tax 

Reclassification to net income, net of tax 

2013 

2012 

 Change from
2012

$ 

209,950 

$ 

194,457 

$ 

15,493 

(2,553) 

(11,160) 

(13,713) 

2,332 

(1,255) 

1,077 

(12,636) 

9,580 

(9,129) 

451 

1,430 

(483) 

947 

1,398 

(12,133)

(2,031)

(14,164)

902

(772)

130

(14,034)

Total Comprehensive Income 

$ 

197,314 

$ 

195,855 

$ 

1,459

22 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CASH AND SECURITIES

Cash and securities totaled $2,580 million at October 31, 2013, 
compared to $2,573 million one year ago. 

Total net unrealized losses before tax recorded on the balance sheet at 
October 31, 2013 were $7.1 million, compared to net unrealized gains 
of $11.3 million last year. Changes in net unrealized gains or losses are 
reflected in Table 7. 

Table 7 – Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Available-for-Sale Cash and Securities
($ thousands)

Deposits with regulated financial institutions 

Government of Canada debt securities 

Province or municipality debt securities 

Other debt securities 

Preferred shares 

Common shares 

Total 

2013  

 $ 

569  

 $ 

 632  

 161  

 1,180  

 (16,301) 

 6,657  

2012 

482 

 176 

 (67)

 1,637 

 6,971 

 2,114 

 $ 

(7,101) 

 $ 

11,313 

The cash and securities portfolio is mainly comprised of high quality 
debt instruments and a comparatively smaller component of preferred 
and common shares. 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. 

In the past five years, CWB capitalized on opportunities to realize 
significant net gains on the sale of securities resulting from a combination 
of investment strategies and market conditions. Realized net gains 
on securities in 2013 remained high at $15.1 million, $2.6 million 
above those realized in the prior year. Net gains on securities in 

2013 were mainly attributed to the sale of common shares following 
unexpectedly strong market performance, as well as the sale of certain 
government securities. 

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

See Table 25 – Valuation of Financial Instruments of this MD&A  
for additional information on significant financial assets and liabilities 
reported at fair value.

The balance and mix of cash and securities are managed as part of 
CWB’s overall liquidity management process; additional information, 
including management’s outlook for 2014, is included in the Liquidity 
Management discussion of this MD&A.

LOANS

Highlights of 2013

•	  Strong loan growth of 12%, largely driven by very strong 

•	  Double-digit loan growth achieved in 23 of the past 24 years 

performance in equipment financing and leasing, real estate 
project loans, and commercial mortgages

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

Table 8 – Outstanding Loans by Portfolio (before the allowance for credit losses)
($ 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 2012

2013  

2012  

$ 

3,428 

$ 

3,179 

$ 

3,311 

2,942 

2,502 

2,304 

902 

274 

2,930 

2,498 

2,292 

1,882 

912 

342 

$ 

249 

381 

444 

210 

422 

(10) 

(68) 

$ 

15,663 

$ 

14,035 

$ 

1,628 

%

8 %

13

18

9

22

(1)

(20)

12 %

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

23

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total loans before the allowance for credit losses increased 12% 
($1,628 million) to reach $15,663 million at year end. Measured 
in dollar terms and by loan type as shown in Table 8, growth in 
equipment financing and leasing of 18% ($444 million) represented 
the strongest source of loan growth, followed by growth in real  
estate project loans of 22% ($422 million) and commercial mortgages 
of 13% ($381 million). The balance of loans in equipment financing 
and leasing includes the Bank’s heavy equipment financing business 
($1,859 million) and the small and mid-ticket leasing business of 
National Leasing ($1,083 million). Growth in real estate project 
loans exceeded expectations as solid activity in both residential and 
commercial construction continued to provide opportunities to finance 
well capitalized developers on the basis of sound loan structures and 
acceptable pre-sale levels. General commercial loans increased 8% 
($249 million). Based on industry sector as shown in Table 9, general 
commercial loans include categories such as manufacturing,  
finance and insurance, and wholesale and retail trade. Personal loans  
and mortgages, which include combined lending activity in banking 
branches and Optimum, showed solid performance with  
9% ($210 million) growth. Corporate loans, which represent a  
diversified portfolio that is centrally sourced and administered 
through a designated lending group located in Edmonton, declined 
by 1% ($10 million) reflecting a high level of fourth quarter 
payouts. 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 

Figure 2 – Outstanding Loans by Portfolio
(October 31, 2012 in brackets)

project loans, and oil and gas production loans, which are both 
included as separate classifications in Table 8. The balance of oil  
and gas production loans, which represent a relatively small 
percentage of the total portfolio, was down 20% ($68 million)  
driven by a combination of fewer new lending opportunities,  
payouts and write-offs. 

Total loans of $1,222 million in Optimum represented growth of  
12% ($132 million). Adjusting for $95 million of insured residential 
mortgages sold during the year, Optimum’s annual loan growth was 
21%. Net 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 70%.  
The book value of alternative mortgages represented approximately 
79% of Optimum’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 equipment financing and leasing,  
and real estate project loans led to slight decreases in the proportion 
of general commercial loans, and personal loans and mortgages. 
Based on the location of security (see Figure 3), Alberta and BC 
represented 42% and 35% of total loans at year end, compared  
to 45% and 33%, respectively, in 2012. 

Oil and Gas Production Loans  
2% (2%)

Corporate Loans  
6% (6%)

Real Estate Project Loans  
15% (13%)

Personal Loans and Mortgages  
16% (17%)

24 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

General Commercial Loans  
22% (23%)

Commercial Mortgages  
20% (21%)

Equipment Financing and Leasing  
19% (18%)

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. CWB expects to maintain double-digit loan 
growth and has set its fiscal 2014 target range at 10 to 12%. 
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. 

Growth in Canada’s domestic economy is expected to accelerate 
modestly in 2014 compared to 2013. 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 2014 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 remained solid due to currently favourable 
resource prices, an ongoing U.S. housing sector recovery and  
export opportunities to Pacific Rim countries, including China. 
Growth in Saskatchewan will mainly be supported by a growing 
energy sector 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. 

Canadian residential real estate markets have been resilient and 
affordability in most geographic areas remains within historical 
ranges, largely reflecting very low interest rates. However,  
the combination of historically high price levels, elevated 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.  
A sustained period of low natural gas prices has adversely 
impacted the financial flexibility and cash flows of many 
exploration and production companies, but CWB’s direct exposure 
to this sector remains low. While fallout from low natural gas 
prices is not expected to materially impact overall portfolio quality, 
related growth opportunities will continue to be constrained.

The impact of regulatory changes related to more stringent 
residential mortgage underwriting criteria resulted in an 
improved competitive environment for CWB’s alternative 
residential mortgage business in 2013, but the long-term 
impacts of these changes remain uncertain. Notwithstanding 
reduced competition for alternative mortgages, the level of 
demand could moderate as a result of further regulatory changes  
and/or an overall slowing of activity in residential markets. 

Potential risks that would have a material adverse impact on 
current economic expectations and forecasts include a global 
economic recession spurred by a return to negative economic 
growth in the euro zone, a slowing rate of economic growth in 
the United States, 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

The following figure illustrates the geographical distribution of loans advanced based on the location of security:

Figure 3 – Geographical Distribution of Loans
(October 31, 2012 in brackets)

British Columbia  
35% (33%)

Ontario  
11% (10%)

Manitoba  
2% (3%)

Other  
3% (3%)

Saskatchewan  
7% (6%)

Alberta  
42% (45%)

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

25

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

Table 9 – 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 

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

2013   

2012

22 % 

21   

15   

6   

5   

5   

4   

3   

2   

2   

2   

2   

2   

2   

7   

23 %

18

15

6

5

5

5

3

3

3

3

2

2

2

5

100 % 

100 %

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 by specialized lenders 
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 Vancouver, Edmonton and Calgary. 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 

Growth is expected across all lending sectors in 2014. While 
stronger economic activity in Alberta and the success of 
strategic initiatives to increase CWB’s lending exposure 
through Optimum and National Leasing in Ontario could 
lead to comparatively faster growth in these areas, portfolio 
diversification by geography will likely remain relatively consistent 
with October 31, 2013. Based on the current view for loans,  
management expects relatively higher net growth in the areas  
of equipment financing and leasing, personal loans and mortgages, 
and general commercial loans. 

Commercial mortgages are often subject to a higher level of 
pricing competition compared to other types of lending, and 
CWB will remain focused on maintaining this portfolio based 
on client relationships and adequate returns. Expectations for 
considerably slower growth in real estate project loans compared 
to that achieved in 2013 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.  

26 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
CREDIT QUALITY

Highlights of 2013

•	  Continued strong quality and an acceptable level of write-offs

•	  Gross impaired loans decreased 4% ($2.6 million) from the 
prior year and, as a percentage of total loans, represented  
41 basis points, compared to 48 basis points one year ago

•	  The provision for credit losses of $27.8 million represented  
19 basis points of average loans, unchanged from the prior 
year, and was at the low end of the 2013 target range of  
18 to 23 basis points

Impaired Loans

As shown in the table below, gross impaired loans totaled  
$64.2 million and represented 0.41% of total loans, compared to 
$66.8 million, or 0.48% at the end of 2012. The ten largest accounts 
classified as impaired, measured by dollars outstanding, represented 

Table 10 - Change in Gross Impaired Loans
($ thousands)

Gross impaired loans, beginning of period 

New formations 

Reductions, impaired accounts paid down or returned to performing status 

Write-offs 

Total, end of period (1) 

Balance of the ten largest impaired accounts 

Total number of accounts classified as impaired (2) 

Total number of accounts classified as impaired under $1 million (2)   

approximately 55% of total gross impaired loans at year end, up 
from 52%. New formations of impaired loans totaled $66.9 million, 
compared to $80.7 million last year. 

2013 

2012 

$ 

66,840 

$ 

97,258 

$ 

66,883 

(42,860) 

(26,652) 

80,734 

(93,440) 

(17,712) 

64,211 

$ 

66,840 

$ 

35,619 

$ 

35,034 

$ 

143 

135 

125 

111 

$ 

$ 

Change from 2012

$ 

(30,418) 

(13,851) 

50,580 

(8,940) 

(2,629) 

585 

18 

24 

%

(31)

(17)

(54)

50

(4)

2

14

22

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

0.41 % 

0.48 % 

(7) bp (4)

(1) Gross impaired loans includes foreclosed assets held for sale with a carrying value of $12,407 (2012 - $10,462). CWB 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 2013 dollar provision for credit losses of $27.8 million  
increased 11% ($2.7 million) over the previous year, consistent with 
portfolio growth. The provision measured as a percentage of average 
loans was unchanged at 19 basis points. As shown below in Figure 4,   
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 
134%, up from 122% in 2012. 

The dollar level of gross impaired loans fluctuates as loans become 
impaired and are subsequently resolved, and does not directly reflect 
the dollar value of expected write-offs given tangible security held in 
support of lending exposures. 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 
CWB’s core geographic markets. Actual credit losses as a percentage 
of total loans continue to demonstrate the benefits of 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 $9.6 million at year end, compared to $14.4 million a 
year earlier. Current estimates of expected write-offs are established 
through detailed analyses of both the overall quality and ultimate 
marketability of the security held against each impaired account. 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

27

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
Figure 4 – Net Impaired Loans as a Percentage of Net Loans Outstanding

-0.14%

2013

-0.11%

2012

2011

0.21%

2010

2009

2008

0.19%

0.62%

0.68%

-0.57%

-0.75%

-0.68%

-0.36%

2007

2006

2005

2004

The overall loan portfolio is reviewed regularly with credit decisions 
undertaken on a case-by-case basis to provide early identification 
of possible adverse trends. Loans that have become impaired are 
monitored closely by a specialized team with regular quarterly,  

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

Outlook for Impaired Loans 

Ongoing disciplined underwriting practices, the secured nature  
of the loan portfolio and expectations for modest acceleration  
of economic activity in Western Canada underpin management's 
view that overall credit quality will remain sound. The level of 
gross impaired loans 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 acceptable 
target range. Management remains confident in the strength, 
diversity and underwriting structure of the overall loan portfolio. 

28 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

 
ALLOWANCE FOR CREDIT LOSSES

The year-over-year change in the allowance for credit losses split between the specific provision by category of impaired loans and the collective 
allowance for credit risk is provided in the table below. 

Table 11 – Allowance for Credit Losses
($ thousands)

Specific Allowance

Commercial 

Real estate 

Equipment financing and energy 

Consumer and personal 

Collective Allowance 

Total 

(1) Recoveries in 2013 totaled $2,869 (2012 - $2,348). 

2013 
Opening 
Balance 

Provision 
for Credit 
Losses 

  Write-Offs, 
net of 
  Recoveries (1) 

2013
Ending
Balance

$ 

2,791 

$ 

1,361 

$ 

(3,859) 

$ 

2,605 

8,524 

459 

14,379 

67,344 

9,198 

7,061 

1,353 

18,973 

8,873 

(5,454) 

(13,406) 

(1,064) 

(23,783) 

$ 

81,723 

$ 

27,846 

$ 

(23,783) 

$ 

85,786

- 

76,217 

293

6,349

2,179 

748 

9,569

The allowance for credit losses is maintained to absorb both  
identified and unidentified losses in the loan portfolio and,  
at October 31, 2013, consisted of $9.6 million of specific allowances 
and $76.2 million in the collective allowance for credit losses.  
The specific allowance includes the amount of accumulated provisions 
for losses required to reduce the carrying value of identified impaired 
loans to their estimated realizable value. 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; 

•	  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. 

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 as a result of 
portfolio growth and changes in the credit cycle. Lower levels of 
specific allowances are expected in strong economic times and 

higher levels of specific allowances in weaker economic times. 
Based on management’s current outlook for credit performance 
and CWB’s 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 2013 Annual Report 

29

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Provision for Credit Losses

The provision for credit losses represented 19 basis points of average 
loans in 2013 (see Table 12), unchanged from the previous year.  
Net new specific provisions represented 13 basis points of average 
loans, compared to 14 basis points in 2012. CWB has a long history 
of strong credit quality and low loan losses, both of which compare 
very favourably to the Canadian banking industry. Macroeconomic and 

other external factors that may impact core geographic regions  
and/or industry sectors in which CWB customers operate are continually 
analyzed. The 2010 increase in the provision for credit losses as a 
percentage of average loans as shown in Table 12 was attributed to 
the acquisition of National Leasing and the relatively higher rate of 
losses typical in the small- and mid-market leasing business.

Table 12 – Provision for Credit Losses
($ thousands)

Provision for credit losses (1) 

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

Collective allowance 

Coverage ratio (3) 

IFRS 

Canadian GAAP

2013 

0.19 % 

0.13   

2012 

0.19 % 

0.14   

2011 

0.19 % 

0.20   

2010 

0.21 % 

0.27   

2009

0.15 %

0.14

$ 

76,217 

$ 

67,344 

$ 

61,330 

$ 

59,603 

$ 

61,153

134 % 

122 % 

74 % 

55 % 

55 %

(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 2014 is expected to represent  
18 to 23 basis points of average loans, consistent with 2013.  
The expected provision reflects CWB’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 updated expectations are communicated no  
less than quarterly.

DEPOSITS

Highlights of 2013

•	 Branch-raised demand and notice deposits increased 12%

•	  Funding sources diversified with the issuance of  

•	  Personal deposits, which include those raised through the 

broker deposit network, increased 5%

•	 Business and government deposits increased 15% 

•	  Branch-raised deposits were 56% of total deposits, down 

slightly from 57% a year earlier 

$254 million of BDNs and $50 million of senior deposit  
notes, net of redemptions, in the debt capital markets to a 
broad range of institutional investors

30 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Table 13 – 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 

2013 

Total 

$ 

30,337 

$  2,741,951 

$  6,648,466 

$  9,420,754 

615,166 

1,622,400 

- 

- 

2,613,691 

1,254,029 

4,851,257 

1,254,029 

$ 

645,503 

$  4,364,351 

$  10,516,186 

$  15,526,040 

4 % 

28 % 

68 % 

100 %

Demand 

Notice 

Term 

2012 

Total 

$ 

31,980 

$  2,382,262 

$  6,545,876 

$  8,960,118 

653,213 

1,391,349 

2,190,157 

4,234,719 

 -  

- 

950,000 

950,000 

$ 

685,193 

$  3,773,611 

$  9,686,033 

$  14,144,837 

5 % 

27 % 

68 % 

100 %

% of

Total

61 %

31

8

100 %

% of

Total

63 %

30

7

100 %

Total deposits of $15,526 million increased 10% ($1,381 million) 
over 2012 reflecting 15% ($617 million) growth in business and 
government deposits, 5% ($461 million) growth in personal deposits, 

which include those issued through the deposit broker network, and  
a 32% ($304 million) increase in outstanding capital markets deposits. 

Table 14 – Deposits by Source 
(as a percentage of total deposits at October 31)

Branches 

Deposit brokers 

Capital markets 

Total 

2013 

2012

56 % 

36 

8   

100 % 

57 %

36

7

100 %

References to branch-raised deposits within this MD&A include  
all deposits generated through the branch network, as well as those 
raised via CWT, CDF and Valiant. Increasing the level of branch-
raised personal deposits and certain types of business deposits is an 
ongoing strategic focus for CWB, as success in this area provides 
the most reliable and stable source of funding. Success in growing 
these funding sources will become even more important as CWB 
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 banking division of CWB, currently offers various deposit 
products to customers in all provinces and territories except Quebec. 
Client deposits in CDF at October 31, 2013 totaled $288 million, a 
62% increase compared to a year earlier. Valiant’s status as a federal 
deposit-taking institution accounts for CWB’s 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. 

Consistent with CWB’s commercial focus, a considerable portion of 
branch-raised deposits are generated from corporate clients that tend 
to hold larger balances compared to personal clients (see the Liquidity 
Management section of this MD&A).

Growth in total branch-raised deposits was 7% ($586 million) in 
2013, while the demand and notice component within branch-raised 
deposits increased 12% ($551 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 56% of total deposits, compared to 57% in the 
previous year. The level of growth in demand and notice deposits 
reflects ongoing execution of strategies to further enhance and 
diversify CWB’s core sources of funding.

Other types of deposits are primarily sourced through a deposit  
broker network and the debt capital markets. Insured deposits raised 
through deposit brokers remain a valued funding source. Although 
these funds are subject to commissions, this cost is countered by a 
reduced dependence on a more extensive branch network and the 
benefit of generating primarily insured fixed term retail deposits over 
a wide geographic base. During the first quarter of 2013, DBRS issued 
an initial rating of “R-1 (low)” with a stable trend on CWB’s short-
term debt, enabling CWB to issue BDNs in the debt capital markets. 
CWB formally announced its BDN program in July with an internally 
authorized limit of $500 million. Additional sources of funding in  
2013 included securitization of $91 million of equipment leases  
(2012 – $226 million) and whole loan sales of $95 million  
(2012 – $50 million) of insured residential mortgages. 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

31

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
Outlook for Deposits and Funding

A strategic focus on increasing branch-raised deposits will 
continue in 2014, with particular 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 objectives to generate 
branch-raised deposits. The Bank’s Edmonton Main branch is  
scheduled to relocate to significantly expanded premises in  
2014 that reflects the scale of business generated from this 
flagship location. Various strategic initiatives, which include 
the offering of 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 reliable, 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. National Leasing plans to continue 
to utilize securitization channels for a portion of its funding 
requirements, provided that both related costs and the regulatory 
capital impact remain satisfactory. Utilizing securitization and/or 
whole loan sales as added sources of funding for certain other 
types of portfolios, most notably residential mortgages, will  
also continue to be evaluated in 2014. 

OTHER ASSETS AND OTHER LIABILITIES

At October 31, 2013 other assets totaled $363 million (2012 –  
$347 million). Insurance-related other assets were $64 million (2012 – 
$58 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, 
2013 was $49 million (2012 – $46 million) and $70 million  
(2012 – $50 million), respectively.

LIQUIDITY MANAGEMENT

Highlights of 2013

•	  Maintained a strong liquidity position and conservative 

investment profile

Other liabilities totaled $462 million at October 31, 2013  
(2012 – $524 million), with the decrease mainly due to the absence 
of securities sold under repurchase agreements. Insurance-related 
other liabilities were $167 million (2012 – $160 million) and consisted 
primarily of provisions for unpaid claims and adjustment expenses,  
and unearned premiums.

•	  Stability in Canadian capital markets provided CWB flexibility 
to reduce holdings of its lowest yielding liquid assets to levels 
consistent with a normal operating environment

A schedule outlining the consolidated securities portfolio at  
October 31, 2013 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;

•	  specific investment criteria and procedures are in place to manage 

the securities portfolio;

•	  regular review, monitoring and approval of investment policies  
is completed by CWB’s 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.

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

•	 monitoring liquidity reserve levels;

•	  monitoring microeconomic and macroeconomic factors,  

and related key risk indicators;

•	  comprehensive operating, micro, and macro scenario  

stress testing;

•	 maintaining a pool of high quality liquid assets;

•	 monitoring the credit profile of the liquidity portfolio;

•	 monitoring deposit liability diversification;

•	 monitoring deposit behaviour; and,

•	 ongoing market surveillance.

32 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

Table 15 – Liquid Assets 
($ thousands)

2013 

2012 

 Change from
2012

Cash and non-interest bearing deposits with financial institutions 

$ 

83,856 

$ 

33,690 

$ 

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 

258,466 

5,673 

347,995 

448,442 

401,950 

487,669 

367,961 

379,141 

147,169 

177,028 

26,265 

236,983 

378,253 

610,103 

470,466 

371,044 

398,752 

107,482 

- 

(70,089) 

50,166

81,438

(20,592)

111,012

70,189

(208,153)

17,203

(3,083)

(19,611)

39,687

70,089

2,232,332 

2,266,011 

(33,679)

$  2,580,327 

$  2,502,994 

$ 

77,333

$  18,520,260 

$  16,873,269 

$  1,646,991

14 % 

15 % 

(100) bp

$  15,526,040 

$  14,144,837 

$  1,381,203

17 % 

18 % 

(100) bp

As shown in Table 15, liquid assets comprised of cash, interbank 
deposits, securities purchased (or sold) under resale agreements and 
marketable securities totaled $2,580 million at October 31, 2013,  
an increase of 3% ($77 million) compared to a year earlier. Liquid 
assets represented 14% (2012 – 15%) of total assets and 17%  
(2012 – 18%) of total deposit liabilities at year end.

The composition of total liquid assets shifted through the normal 
course of prudent liquidity management. This resulted in a significant 
increase in the allocation of cash resources, and also contributed to 
a lower overall average yield on the cash and securities portfolio. 
key changes in the composition of liquid assets at October 31, 2013 
compared to the prior year include:

•	  maturities within one year comprising 52% (2012 – 53%)  

of liquid assets;

•	  Government of Canada, provincial and municipal debt securities 

decreasing to 52% (2012 – 58%) of liquid assets;

•	  deposits with regulated financial institutions, including Bankers’ 
Acceptances, increasing to 13% (2012 – 8%) of liquid assets;

•	  preferred shares decreasing to 15% (2012 – 16%) of liquid assets; 

and,

•	  other marketable securities increasing to 20% (2012 – 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 
short-term advances from securities dealers, typically no more than a 
few days in duration, and require CWB to repurchase the securities 
given as collateral. Collateral securities are comprised of government 
securities or other high quality liquid investments. These agreements 
are primarily used for cash management purposes. Securities sold 
under resale agreements are included in other liabilities and were nil  
at October 31, 2013, compared to $70 million a year earlier.

Short-term uncommitted and committed facilities have been  
arranged with a number of financial institutions. The government 
insured/guaranteed mortgage portfolios held by CWB also represent 
a potential source of liquidity. As additional sources of liquidity and 
funding in 2013, $91 million of equipment leases were securitized 
(2012 – $226 million) and $95 million (2012 – $50 million) 
of insured residential mortgages were sold via whole loan sales. 
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 16 and 17.

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

33

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
   
   
Table 16 – Deposit Maturities Within One Year
($ millions)

October 31, 2013 

Demand deposits 

Notice deposits 

Deposits payable on a fixed date 

Total 

October 31, 2012 Total 

Table 17 – Total Deposit Maturities
($ millions)

Within 
1 Month 

1 to 3 
Months 

3 Months 
to 1 Year 

  Cumulative
 Within 1 Year

$ 

$ 

$ 

645 

$ 

4,364 

997 

6,006 

5,390 

$ 

$ 

- 

- 

932 

932 

1,106 

$ 

$ 

$ 

- 

- 

4,360 

4,360 

3,428 

$ 

$ 

$ 

645 

4,364

6,289 

11,298

9,924 

October 31, 2013 

Demand deposits 

Notice deposits 

Deposits payable on a fixed date 

  Within    

1 Year 

1 to 2    
Years 

2 to 3 
Years 

3 to 4 
Years 

4 to 5 
Years 

 More than
5 Years 

  $ 

645  $ 

4,364 

6,289 

-  $ 

- 

2,416 

-  $ 

-  $ 

-  $ 

-  $ 

- 

887 

- 

513 

- 

412 

- 

- 

Total

645

4,364

10,517

Total 

  $ 

11,298  $ 

2,416  $ 

887  $ 

513  $ 

412  $ 

-  $ 

15,526

October 31, 2012 Total 

  $ 

9,924  $ 

2,057  $ 

1,262  $ 

466  $ 

436  $ 

-  $ 

14,145 

A breakdown of deposits by source is provided in Table 14. 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. Deposits raised through deposit brokers remain a highly 

effective and valued funding source. Deposits such as senior and 
bearer deposit notes raised in the capital markets provide a further 
source of funding and 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 18 – Subordinated Debentures Outstanding
($ thousands)

Interest 
Rate 

4.389% (1) 

3.463% (2) 

5.571% (3) 

5.950% (4) 

Total 

 Maturity  
Date  

Earliest Date  
 Redeemable  
 by CWB at Par  

As at  
  October 31  
2013  

As at 
  October 31 
2012 

November 30, 2020  

 November 30, 2015  

$ 

300,000 

$ 

300,000

 December 17, 2024  

 December 17, 2019  

 March 21, 2022  

 March 22, 2017  

 June 27, 2018  

 June 28, 2013  

250,000 

75,000 

- 

-

75,000

50,000

$ 

625,000 

$ 

425,000

(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 12-year term with a fixed interest rate for the first seven years. Thereafter, the interest rate will be reset quarterly at the Canadian dollar CDOR 90-day Bankers' Acceptance rate plus  

160 basis points. 

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

180 basis points. 

(4) These conventional debentures had a 10-year term with a fixed interest rate for the first five years and were redeemed by CWB on June 28, 2013. Thereafter, the interest rate would have reset quarterly at the Canadian  
  dollar CDOR 90-day Bankers’ Acceptance rate plus 302 basis points. 

34 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Outlook for Liquidity Management 

Internal methodologies for measuring and monitoring 
liquidity risk are continuously refined. CWB utilizes dynamic 
scenario analysis to monitor and stress liquidity coverage while 
maintaining prudent liquidity standards. Liquidity management 
directly impacts net interest margin based on the composition  
of liquid assets and how much is allocated to cash balances  
and low yielding investments, such as government securities.  
CWB expects average liquidity in 2014 will remain relatively 
consistent with the level held in the latter half of 2013,  
which was slightly lower than the year as a whole.

The Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR) and Net Stable Funding  
Ratio (NSFR) are minimum regulatory liquidity 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 stressed situation.  
The NSFR establishes a second common measure of liquidity based 
on the ratio of longer term assets to longer term liabilities. OSFI is 
currently preparing an enhanced liquidity adequacy guideline. CWB 
believes it is well positioned to comply with the new requirements.

CAPITAL MANAGEMENT

Highlights of 2013

•	  Solid Basel III common equity Tier 1 (CET1), Tier 1 and total 

•	  Cash dividends of $0.70 per share paid to common 

capital adequacy ratios of 8.0%, 9.7% and 13.9%, respectively

shareholders, up 13%

•	  Supported strong loan growth while maintaining a relatively 

•	

Issued $250 million of subordinated debentures

consistent CET1 capital ratio

Subsequent Highlights

In December 2013, the Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.19 per common share, an increase of 6% ($0.01) 
over the previous quarterly cash dividend and 12% ($0.02 per share) over the quarterly cash dividend declared one year earlier.  
The Board of Directors also declared a quarterly 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. Capital management 
takes into account forecasted capital needs with consideration 
of anticipated profitability, asset growth, market and economic 
conditions, regulatory changes, and common and preferred share 
dividends. The overriding goal is to remain well capitalized in order 
to protect depositors and policyholders, 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. CWB has implemented 
an Internal Capital Adequacy Assessment Process (ICAAP) to ensure 
capital levels remain adequate in relation to potential impacts of 
current and anticipated future risks, as well as changing regulatory 
capital requirements.

CWB provides a share incentive plan to officers and employees who 
are in a position to materially impact the longer term financial success 
of the organization, 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 common 
shares and holders of any other class of shares deemed eligible by  
the Board are offered the choice to direct cash dividends paid toward 
the purchase of common shares through a dividend reinvestment plan 
(DRIP). Further details regarding CWB’s DRIP are available at  
cwb.com/investor_relations. 

Preferred Share Normal Course Issuer Bid

CWB has a Normal Course Issuer Bid (NCIB) outstanding to  
purchase, for cancellation, up to up to 826,120 Non-Cumulative 
5-Year Rate Reset Preferred Shares Series 3 (“preferred shares”). 
The NCIB commenced March 1, 2013 and will expire February 28, 
2014. During the year ended October 31, 2013, CWB purchased and 
cancelled 37,404 preferred shares under the NCIB. Security holders 
may contact CWB to obtain, without charge, a copy of the notice  
filed with the Toronto Stock Exchange. Additionally, a copy of the 
news release is available on CWB’s website and on SEDAR at  
sedar.com. 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

35

 
Basel III 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 III Capital Adequacy 
Accord (Basel III). OSFI implemented Basel III rules supporting more 
stringent standards on capital adequacy for Canadian banks at the 
beginning of calendar 2013. Significant Basel III capital changes most 
relevant to CWB include the following:

•	  Increased focus on tangible common equity

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

subordinated debentures and preferred shares, issued after  
January 1, 2013, must have non-viability contingent capital  
(NVCC) terms in order to qualify for inclusion as regulatory  
capital. 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 determined it 
necessary to inject “bail out” funding

Minimum Basel III regulatory capital ratios, including a 250 basis  
point capital conservation buffer, are 7.0% 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. 

CWB currently reports its regulatory capital ratios using the 
Standardized approach for calculating risk-weighted assets. This 
approach requires CWB to carry significantly more capital for certain 
credit exposures compared to requirements under the Advanced 
Internal Ratings Based (AIRB) methodology used by larger Canadian 
financial institutions. For this reason, regulatory capital ratios of banks 
that utilize the Standardized approach versus the AIRB methodology 
are not directly comparable. 

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

CWB complied with all internal and external capital requirements in 2013.

longer qualify

•	  Investment in an insurance subsidiary is no longer deducted  

from capital

•	  Changes in the capital treatment for investments in the regulatory 
capital of other financial institutions whereby investment amounts 
over a prescribed threshold are treated as a deduction from 
regulatory capital

36 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

Table 19 – Capital Structure and Basel III Regulatory Ratios at Year End
($ thousands)

Regulatory Capital, net of deductions

Common equity Tier 1 

Tier 1 

Total 

Capital ratios

Common equity Tier 1 

Tier 1 

Total 

Asset to capital multiple 

2013 

2012 (1)

$  1,285,692 

n/a

1,560,801 

$  1,460,776

2,243,654 

1,903,790

8.0 % 

9.7   

13.9 

8.1 x 

n/a

10.6 %

13.8

8.8 x

(1) Capital ratios prior to fiscal 2013 have been calculated using the previous capital framework, Basel II. Capital ratios calculated under Basel III are not directly comparable to the equivalent Basel II measures.

The total capital ratio reflects the 2013 issuance of $250 million of subordinated debentures, which qualified for the Basel III transition allowance 
applicable for Canadian banks, and the redemption of $50 million of subordinated debentures.

Table 20 – Basel III Regulatory Capital
($ thousands)

Common equity Tier 1 capital instruments and reserves 

Directly issued qualifying common share capital plus related share-based payment reserve 

Retained earnings 

Accumulated other comprehensive income and other reserves 

Common equity Tier 1 capital before regulatory adjustments 

Regulatory adjustments to common equity Tier 1 (1) 

Common equity Tier 1 capital 

Additional Tier 1 capital instruments

Directly issued capital instruments subject to phase out from Additional Tier 1 (2) 

Additional Tier 1 instruments issued by subsidiaries and held by third parties 

Additional Tier 1 capital before regulatory adjustments 

Regulatory adjustments to Additional Tier 1 capital (3) 

Additional Tier 1 capital 

Tier 1 capital 

Tier 2 Capital instruments and allowances

Directly issued capital instruments subject to phase out from Tier 2 (2) 

Tier 2 instruments issued by subsidiaries and held by third parties 

Collective allowance for credit losses 

Tier 2 capital before regulatory adjustments 

Regulatory adjustments to Tier 2 capital (4) 

Tier 2 capital 

Total capital 

2013

$ 

534,914 

 865,087 

 (5,417)

 1,394,584 

 (108,892)

 1,285,692 

 283,275 

 163 

 283,438 

 (8,329)

 275,109 

 1,560,801 

 607,500 

 38 

 76,217 

 683,755 

 (902)

 682,853 

 $  2,243,654

(1) CET1 deductions include goodwill, intangible assets, and non-significant investments in financial institutions above a specific percentage of CET1 capital. 
(2) Basel III capital balances exclude 10% of non-common equity instruments outstanding at December 2012 that do not include non-viability contingent capital clauses. At October 31, 2013, a combined $31 million  
  of outstanding Innovative Tier 1 capital (disclosed in non-controlling interest) and preferred shares as well as $18 million of outstanding subordinated debentures were excluded from regulatory capital.  
(3) Additional Tier 1 deduction includes non-significant investments in financial institutions above a specific percentage of CET1 capital. 
(4) Tier 2 deduction includes non-significant investments in financial institutions above a specific percentage of CET1 capital.

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

37

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Table 21 – Basel III Risk-Weighted Assets 
($ thousands)

Cash, 
Securities 
  and Resale 
 Agreements 

Loans 

Other 
Items 

$ 

123,312 

$  10,764,461 

$ 

Corporate 

Sovereign 

Bank 

Retail residential mortgages 

Other retail

Excluding small business entities 

Small business entities 

Equity 

Undrawn commitments 

Operational risk 

Securitization risk 

Other  

As at October 31, 2013 

As at October 31, 2012 (1) 

2013

Risk-
  Weighted
Assets

Total 

$  10,887,773 

$  10,803,610

1,370,577 

479,099 

2,371,593 

13,680

145,911

861,333 

189,685 

136,402 

2,084,218 

1,587,195 

470,234 

372,709 

72,760 

32,234 

437,404 

470,234 

357,235

909,497

402,925

426,990

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

28,794 

19,368 

2,371,593 

189,685 

2,084,218 

- 

372,709 

1,341,783 

459,731 

- 

- 

- 

470,234 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

72,760 

32,234 

79,037 

- 

358,367 

$  2,395,060 

$  15,942,099 

$  2,344,725 

$  14,216,986 

$ 

$ 

431,127 

$  18,768,286 

$  16,115,012

404,548 

$  16,966,259 

$  13,775,443

(1) Capital ratios prior to fiscal 2013 have been calculated using the previous capital framework, Basel II. Capital ratios calculated under Basel III are not directly comparable to the equivalent Basel II measures.

Table 22 – Basel III Risk-Weighting Category
($ thousands)

0% 

20% 

35% 

50% 

75% 

100% 

2013

  150% and 
greater 

Balance 

  Weighted

$ 

23,664  $ 

41,331  $ 

-  $ 

76,548  $ 

-  $ 10,724,551  $ 

21,679  $ 10,887,773  $ 10,803,610

Corporate 

Sovereign 

Bank 

  1,302,177 

68,400 

- 

412,719 

- 

- 

- 

6,026 

Retail residential mortgages   

294,876 

- 

  1,754,275 

Other retail

Excluding small 

business entities 

Small business entities   

Equity 

Undrawn commitments 

Operational risk 

Securitization risk 

Other  

6,701 

2,618 

2,128 

708 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

141,952 

11,771 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

300,420 

- 

60,354 

22,022 

- 

- 

- 

  1,370,577 

479,099 

  2,371,593 

13,680

145,911

861,333

180,379 

46 

431 

189,685 

136,402

  1,992,436 

79,914 

8,542 

  2,084,218 

  1,587,195

- 

470,234 

61,896 

310,813 

- 

- 

- 

- 

12,784 

174,796 

- 

- 

72,760 

32,234 

96,101 

470,234 

470,234

372,709 

72,760 

32,234 

357,235

909,497

402,925

437,404 

426,990

As at October 31, 2013  $  1,771,988  $ 

537,057  $  1,754,275  $ 

82,574  $  2,547,915  $ 11,842,730  $ 

231,747  $ 18,768,286  $ 16,115,012

As at October 31, 2012 (1)  $  1,869,284  $ 

471,937  $  1,462,072  $ 

763,371  $  1,427,675  $ 10,876,381  $ 

95,539  $ 16,966,259  $ 13,775,443

(1) Capital ratios prior to fiscal 2013 have been calculated using the previous capital framework, Basel II. Capital ratios calculated under Basel III are not directly comparable to the equivalent Basel II measures.

38 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Outlook for Capital Management

CWB will maintain its solid capital position. Currently, Basel III 
capital ratios are within CWB’s ICAAP thresholds and above  
OSFI’s required minimums, placing CWB in a good position 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 CWB’s comprehensive ICAAP. 
With the exception of points noted in the paragraph below 
related to CWB’s Tier 1 ratio and potential redemption of existing 
preferred shares in 2014, the ongoing retention of earnings, 
net of expected common and preferred share dividends, should 
support capital requirements associated with the anticipated 
achievement of the 2014 performance target ranges. 

However, in order to maintain CWB’s Tier 1 regulatory capital ratio 
above internal thresholds, the issuance of qualifying replacement 
capital will be required prior to the anticipated redemption 
date. In addition to uncertainty about the results of the special 
resolution voting, the public market for preferred shares which 
qualify as NVCC has yet to be established in Canada. The 2014 
performance target ranges for growth in adjusted cash earnings 
per share and the return on common shareholders’ equity assume 
existing preferred shares are redeemed and replaced, to the 
extent required, with comparatively lower cost capital. Without 
both an amendment to By-law Three and a successful issuance 
of qualifying NVCC preferred shares, CWB’s only option to raise 
replacement capital would be to issue common shares.

With respect to regulatory capital structure, a special resolution 
will be voted upon on December 12, 2013 at a concurrent special 
meeting of common and preferred shareholders. If approved, 
the special resolution will amend CWB’s By-law Three to permit 
an unlimited number of First Preferred shares to be issued, to a 
maximum aggregate consideration outstanding of $1,000 million; 
terms of the existing By-law Three precludes CWB from issuing 
any preferred shares in the future. On April 30, 2014, unless the 
outstanding Series 3 preferred shares are redeemed by CWB, 
subject to approval of OSFI, the corresponding dividend yield will 
reset to a rate of 500 basis points over the yield on the applicable 
Government of Canada benchmark security. In consideration of 
the current capital market environment and CWB’s investment 
grade credit rating, management and the Board believe it is in the 
best interests of common shareholders to redeem these shares.  

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 existing capital structure are 
underway. Required resources, costs and potential timelines 
related to CWB’s possible transition to an AIRB methodology 
for managing credit risk and calculating risk-weighted assets 
are still being evaluated. Preliminary analysis confirms a multi-
year time frame and any future transition would be subject to 
OSFI approval. CWB’s new core banking system, expected to 
be implemented in 2015, is a critical component for a number 
of requirements necessary for AIRB compliance, including the 
collection of certain types of data. 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

39

 
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,  
loans, derivative financial instruments and certain other assets. 
Financial instrument liabilities include deposits, debt, derivative 
financial instruments and certain other liabilities.

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

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

Table 23 – Derivative Financial Instruments
($ thousands)

Notional Amounts

Interest rate contracts (1) 

Equity swaps (2) 

Foreign exchange contracts (3) 

Total 

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.

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.

2013 

2012

$ 

800,000 

$ 

225,000

17,470 

1,235 

15,445

2,450 

$ 

818,705 

$ 

242,895

(1) Interest rate contracts are used as hedging devices to manage interest rate risk. The outstanding contracts mature between December 2013 and April 2015. 
(2) Equity swaps designated as hedges mature between June 2014 and June 2016. Equity swaps are used to reduce the earnings volatility from restricted share units linked to CWB’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 December 2013  

and April 2014.

The active use of interest rate contracts remains an integral component 
in managing the short-term gap position. The significant increase in the 
volume of outstanding contracts (measured by the notional amount) 
reflects normal course management of interest rate risk and more 
favourable costs of certain hedging instruments. Derivative financial 
instruments are entered into only for CWB’s own account. CWB does 
not act as an intermediary in derivatives markets. Transactions are 
entered into on the basis of industry standard contracts with approved 
counterparties subject to periodic and at least annual review, including 
an assessment of the credit worthiness of the counterparty. Policies 
regarding the use of derivative financial instruments are approved, 
reviewed and monitored on a regular basis by ALCO, and are reviewed 
and approved by the Board no less than annually. 

ACQUISITION

Effective May 17, 2013, CWB acquired 54.6% of the outstanding 
common shares of Calgary-based McLean & Partners Wealth 
Management. The financial products and services of McLean & 
Partners are an excellent strategic fit with CWB’s existing banking, 
wealth management and trust operations, and provided a modest 
positive impact on adjusted cash earnings per common share in  
fiscal 2013. The acquisition also supported key strategic objectives to 
enhance revenue diversification and sources of fee-based income. 

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 $8,424 million  
at October 31, 2013, compared to $7,172 million one year ago.  
Assets under management held within Adroit and McLean & Partners 
were $1,901 million at year end, compared to $855 million last 
year. The material increase in assets under management reflects the 
addition of McLean & Partners.

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.

40 

CWB Group 2013 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 24. 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 such as 2012).

Net gains on securities, reflected in other income, were unusually 
high in the fourth quarter of 2012 and the third quarter of 2013. 
The majority of net gains on securities in these periods resulted from 
favourable market conditions and the repositioning of investments in 
preferred and common equities. 

Quarterly financial results are subject to some fluctuation due to 
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. In the third quarter of 2013, net insurance revenues, 
reflected in other income, were materially impacted by claims expense 
resulting from catastrophic floods in southern Alberta. In both the 
third quarter of 2013 and the fourth quarter of 2012, net insurance 
revenues were impacted by claims expense from severe hailstorms in 
Alberta. Mandatory participation in the Alberta auto risk sharing pools 
can also result in unpredictable quarterly fluctuations.

Table 24 – Quarterly Financial Highlights (1)
($ thousands, except per share amounts)

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

Detailed management’s discussion and analysis along with unaudited 
interim consolidated financial statements for each quarter, except for 
the fourth quarters of fiscal 2012 and 2013, are available for review 
on SEDAR at sedar.com and on CWB's website at cwb.com. Copies of  
the quarterly reports to shareholders can also be obtained, free of 
charge, by contacting InvestorRelations@cwbank.com.

Net interest income (teb) 

$  126,475  $  122,702  $  113,576  $  114,749 

$  113,246  $  115,217  $  107,600  $  107,509

2013 

2012

Q4 

Q3 

Q2 

Q1 

Q4 

Q3 

Q2 

Q1

Less teb adjustment 

Net interest income

2,062 

2,161 

2,000 

1,915 

  1,91,979 

2,086 

2,458 

2,620

per financial statements 

124,413 

120,541 

111,576 

112,834 

111,267 

113,131 

105,142 

104,889

Other income 

Total revenues (teb) 

Total revenues 

Net income available to

26,181 

152,656 

150,594 

23,032 

145,734 

143,573 

23,390 

136,966 

134,966 

22,379 

137,128 

135,213 

19,932 

133,178 

131,199 

22,933 

138,150 

136,064 

20,254 

127,854 

125,396 

18,791

126,300

123,680

common shareholders 

51,210 

47,484 

42,988 

45,482 

43,046 

48,004 

39,669 

41,478

Earnings per common share

Basic 

Diluted 

Adjusted cash 

Return on common

0.64 

0.64 

0.65 

0.60 

0.60 

0.61 

0.54 

0.54 

0.55 

0.58 

0.57 

0.58 

0.55 

0.55 

0.56 

0.62 

0.61 

0.63 

0.52 

0.52 

0.55 

0.55

0.54

0.57

shareholders' equity (ROE) 

14.9 % 

14.0 % 

13.4 % 

14.2 % 

13.8 % 

16.1 % 

14.6 % 

15.5 %

Return on average total assets (ROA) 

Efficiency ratio (teb) 

Efficiency ratio 

Net interest margin (teb) 

Net interest margin 

Provision for credit losses as

1.11 

45.0 

45.6 

2.75 

2.71 

1.06 

45.9 

46.6 

2.74 

2.69 

1.00 

47.3 

48.0 

2.65 

2.60 

1.06 

45.3 

45.9 

2.66 

2.62 

1.03 

46.7 

47.4 

2.71 

2.67 

1.19 

42.8 

43.4 

2.85 

2.80 

1.03 

46.2 

47.1 

2.81 

2.74 

1.07

43.7

44.6

2.77

2.70

a percentage of average loans 

0.19 

0.20 

0.19 

0.18 

0.17 

0.19 

0.19 

0.20

(1) See page 13 for a discussion of teb and non-GAAP measures.

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

41

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
FOURTH QUARTER OF 2013

Strong fourth quarter financial performance was marked by record 
earnings and the achievement of another year of double-digit loan 
growth. Record net income available to common shareholders of 
$51.2 million was up 19% ($8.2 million) compared to the same 
quarter last year while diluted earnings per common share increased 
16% to $0.64. Adjusted cash earnings per share, which excludes 
the after-tax amortization of acquisition-related intangible assets 
and the non-tax deductible charge for the fair value of contingent 
consideration, was $0.65, also up 16%. Total revenues (teb) grew 
15% ($19.5 million) to reach a record $152.7 million, driven by 
the combined benefits of strong 12% year-over-year loan growth, 
a four basis point increase in net interest margin to 2.75% and 
31% ($6.2 million) higher other income. Very strong growth in 
other income mainly reflected a $6.2 million positive change in net 
insurance revenues and a $2.5 million increase in trust and wealth 
management fee income, partially offset by $3.1 million lower net 
gains on securities. Net insurance revenues were impacted in the 
fourth quarter of 2012 by increased claims expense related to severe 
hailstorms in Alberta. Revenues from trust and wealth management 
were materially higher compared to a year earlier, mainly due to the 
addition of McLean & Partners, acquired in the third quarter of 2013. 

Compared to the prior quarter, net income available to common 
shareholders increased 8% ($3.7 million) as positive contributions 
from $9.3 million higher net insurance revenues, 2% quarterly  
loan growth and a stable net interest margin were partially offset  
by a $4.7 million decline in net gains on securities and a $2.5 million 
reduction in the ‘other’ component of other income. Net insurance 
revenues were negatively impacted in the prior quarter by increased 
claims expense related to catastrophic southern Alberta floods and 
severe hailstorms. The ‘other’ component of other income was higher 
in the third quarter primarily due to gains realized on the sale of 
residential mortgages. Diluted and adjusted cash earnings per 
common share both increased 7% ($0.04). 

The quarterly return on common shareholders’ equity of 14.9%  
increased 110 basis points compared to a year earlier and 90 basis  
points from the prior quarter. Fourth quarter return on assets was 1.11%, 
compared to 1.03% last year and 1.06% in the previous quarter. 

The quarterly efficiency ratio (teb) was 45.0%, an improvement of 170  
basis points from a year earlier and 90 basis points from the third quarter. 

42 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

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, 2013, the provision for unpaid claims 
and adjustment expenses totaled $89.7 million (2012 – $86.2 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.

CWB 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. 

ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES

CWB’s significant accounting policies are outlined in Note 1 to the 
audited consolidated financial statements with related financial 
note disclosures by major caption. 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, 2013, CWB’s total 
allowance for credit losses was $85.8 million (2012 – $81.7 million), 
which included specific allowances of $9.6 million (2012 –  
$14.4 million) and a collective allowance of $76.2 million (2012 –  
$67.3 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 
other 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.  

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

43

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

Table 25 – Valuation of Financial Instruments
($ thousands)

As at October 31, 2013 

Financial Assets

Cash resources 

Securities 

Derivative related 

Total Financial Assets 

Financial Liabilities

Other liability (1) 

Derivative related 

Total Financial Liabilities 

As at October 31, 2012 

Financial Assets

Cash resources 

Securities 

Derivative related 

Total Financial Assets 

Financial Liabilities

Derivative related 

Fair Value 

Level 1 

Level 2 

Level 3

Valuation Technique 

$ 

347,995 

$ 

300,995 

$ 

47,000 

$ 

2,232,332 

2,232,332 

4,509 

- 

- 

4,509 

$  2,584,836 

$  2,533,327 

$ 

51,509 

$ 

-

-

-

-

$ 

$ 

1,679 

$ 

36 

1,715 

$ 

- 

- 

- 

$ 

$ 

- 

$ 

1,679

36 

36 

-

$ 

1,679

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 

$ 

-

-

- 

- 

-

(1) Level 3 financial instruments was comprised of the contingent consideration related to the acquisition of McLean & Partners Wealth Management Ltd. 

Notes 3, 4, 5, 11 and 29 to the consolidated financial statements provide additional information regarding these financial instruments. 

44 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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 CWB’s future financial statements. 
CWB is currently reviewing these standards to determine the impact 
on the financial statements. 

IFRS 13 – Fair Value Measurement

The IASB has issued new guidance on fair value measurement and 
disclosure requirements. IFRS 13 applies to other IFRS standards that 
require or permit fair value measurements or disclosures about fair 
value measurements and sets out a framework on how to measure 
fair value using the assumptions that market participants would use 
when pricing the asset or liability under current market conditions, 
including assumptions about risk. IFRS 13 is effective for annual 
periods beginning on or after January 1, 2013 and is to be applied 
prospectively. This new standard is not expected to have a material 
impact on the financial position, cash flows or earnings of CWB.

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. A key item 
for change in accounting under IFRS 10 is the de-consolidation of 
the trusts through which CWB issued a certain regulatory capital 
instrument. The de-consolidation of the trusts would result in a 
reclassification of securities issued through Canadian Western Bank 
Capital Trust (see Note 19 of the consolidated financial statements) 
from non-controlling interest to deposit liabilities in the consolidated 
balance sheets, and the associated income statement charge would 
be reclassified from non-controlling interest to interest expense. 
Other than this reclassification, the adoption of these standards is not 
expected to have a material impact on the financial position, cash 
flows or earnings of CWB. IFRS 10 and 12 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 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. 
This new standard is not expected to have a material impact on the 
financial position, cash flows or earnings of CWB.

IFRS 9 – Financial Instruments

In November 2013, the IASB removed the January 1, 2015  
mandatory effective date of IFRS 9 to provide sufficient time for 
preparers of financial statements to make the transition to the new 
requirements. IFRS 9 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. Additional amendments have 
been made to hedge accounting and measuring an entity's own credit 
risk, both of which are not expected to materially impact the financial 
position, cash flows or earnings of CWB. 

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 significant impact on CWB’s future 
consolidated financial statements.

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

45

 
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 46 to 60 of this MD&A form an integral part of the audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended October 31, 2013.

Highlights of 2013

Several enhancements to risk governance were made in 2013 
as part of the ongoing development of CWB’s risk management 
processes. key changes include the:

•	  finalization of the risk appetite framework; 

•	  formalization of risk appetite statements for principal risks 

approaching completion; 

•	 restructuring of CWB’s internal risk management committees; 

•	  development of the three lines of defense model with 

particular emphasis on oversight functions; and,

•	 formalization of a transitional Chief Risk Officer (CRO) role. 

RISk MANAGEMENT OVERVIEW

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

As with all financial institutions, CWB is in the business of managing 
risk and is therefore exposed to various risk factors that could 
adversely affect its operating environment, financial condition and 
financial performance. Exposure to risk may also influence a client’s 
decision to make deposits and/or an investor’s decision to buy, sell 
or hold CWB shares or other securities. Each of CWB’s businesses 
is subject to certain risks that require unique mitigation strategies. 
CWB has demonstrated its ability to effectively manage risks through 
conservative management practices based on a strong risk culture 
and a disciplined risk management approach; however, many risks are 
beyond CWB’s direct control. A description of key external risk factors 
management considers is included in this risk management discussion. 
CWB actively evaluates existing and potential risks to develop, 
implement and continually enhance appropriate mitigation strategies.

Risk Management Principles 

The following principles guide the management of risks across  
all operations and companies of CWB (group-wide):

•	  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 sound  
preventative and detection controls.

•	  A group-wide view of risk and the acceptance of risks required  

to build the business with continuous consideration for how those 
risks may affect CWB’s reputation and brand.

•	  The belief that every employee has some responsibility for risk 

management 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.

•	  Recognition that “knowing your client” reduces risks by  

ensuring the services provided are suitable for, and understood  
by, the client.

A heightened regulatory focus on risk management was a  
notable outcome of the global financial crisis, and the level of active 
management related to regulatory risks has continued to increase 
since that time. The mandate of CWB’s Group Risk Management 
function is to enhance existing processes and structure to help identify 
and appropriately mitigate risks across all companies. The intent is 
to ensure risk management practices satisfy regulatory requirements 
while providing a suitable framework for CWB that properly balances 
risk and reward.

Effective risk management requires a well-defined risk  
management framework, which includes a strong principles- 
based risk culture, clearly understood risk appetites and well 
documented risk governance practices. Group Risk Management  
is functionally independent of business operations, and is responsible 
for maintaining the risk management framework and resulting 
policies. Senior management establishes and recommends CWB’s 
risk appetite, which is ultimately approved by the Board. Group 
Risk Management also assists senior management in developing 
and communicating risk appetite, as well as monitoring certain risk 
management activities. 

46 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

Risk Management Framework

The primary goal of risk management is to ensure that the outcomes  
of risk taking are consistent with CWB’s business activities, strategies  
and risk appetite. The 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.  

This international standard provides principles and guidelines  
for managing risk in a systematic, transparent and credible manner.  
The risk framework is subject to continuous evaluation to ensure 
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. 

CWB’s group-wide risk management framework is comprised of four main elements: 

Figure 5 – Risk Management Framework

Risk Governance

Risk Appetite Framework

Principal Risks and Risk Management Processes

Strong Risk Culture

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 the Board understand 
the inter-relationships and potential impacts of risks. CWB’s strong 
risk culture starts with an appropriate “tone at the top” that 
demonstrates and sends consistent and clear messages throughout 

the organization. Risk culture is communicated throughout 
the organization and is emphasized by the actions of senior 
management and the Board. 

Principal Risks

The ability to identify, measure and monitor risks is a key component of 
effective group-wide risk management. Certain principal risks have been 
identified that have the greatest potential to materially impact operations. 

Following is a visual representation of CWB’s principal risk exposures by business line: 

Figure 6 – Principal Risks

CWB

Liquidity/Funding Risk
Market Risk
Capital Risk
Operational Risk

Bank

Trust

Insurance

Wealth 
Management

Credit Risk
Operational Risk

Credit Risk
Operational Risk

Operational Risk

Operational Risk

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

47

 
•	  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 CWB,  
from the Board to senior management to front-line staff. 

•	  A relatively 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 long-term 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 tolerance thresholds, and maintaining high ethical 
standards. The businesses are also managed within the confines of 
legal and regulatory requirements.

Regulatory risk is a significant risk that is a subset of Operational Risk. 
Important risk factors, including related risk management processes, 
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 inter-related.   

CWB’s risk management processes incorporate various forms of 
stress testing to assist in making informed risk management and 
capital planning decisions, which are developed and managed as 
part of sound business strategy. Stress testing is performed across 
key functional areas of CWB and is based on both quantitative and 
qualitative inputs. 

Risk Appetite

Senior management establishes and recommends CWB’s overall risk 
appetite, which is ultimately approved by the Board. Risk appetite is 
the formalization of basic business principles such as making decisions 
based on risk-reward tradeoffs, understanding potential outcomes of 
those decisions, and deciding whether CWB is comfortable with the 
risk associated with those outcomes. 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 senior management, 
internal risk committees and the Board. key attributes of CWB’s 
formalized risk appetite framework include the following:

•	  An ongoing focus on lower risk intermediary banking  

activities, complemented by extensive knowledge and experience  
in CWB’s chosen lending sectors, key geographic regions and other 
complementary 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.

Risk Management Governance Structure

Management owns the risks CWB takes or is exposed to while 
conducting its business activities, while the Board approves 
and monitors the framework under which these risks are 
managed. This framework places ultimate accountability for 
the management of risk with the Group Risk Committee. The 
Group Risk Committee, with the assistance of the Group Risk 
Management function, is responsible for establishing the overall 
risk management framework, identifying risks and developing 
appropriate risk management policies. The Board, either directly 
or through its committees, reviews or approves the key policies 

and implements specific reporting procedures to enable effective 
monitoring of significant risk areas. At least annually, a report on 
risks and key risk management policies is presented to the Board 
and/or Board committees for review, assessment and approval.

During fiscal 2013, CWB implemented new internal risk 
management committees to more effectively align committee 
structures with business strategy and management of principal 
risks. An overview of the management committee structure and 
list of key risks for which each committee is responsible follows.

48 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

Figure 7 – Internal Risk Management Committees

CEO

Group Risk 
Committee

Group  
Credit Risk 
Committee

Group  
ALCO

Group  
Capital Risk 
Committee

Group  
Operational 
Risk 
Committee

Group  
Disclosure 
Committee

Credit Risk

Market Risk 
Liquidity and  
Funding Risk

Capital Risk

Operational Risk 
(People and  
Regulatory)

Group Risk Committee – Comprised of members of the executive and oversees major risk management processes, provides oversight 
to internal risk committees and ensures the risk management framework is properly implemented. Also provides executive oversight 
for all principal risks, and recommends the risk appetite and overall risk management framework for Board approval. 

Group Credit Risk Committee – Approves loans within delegated limits and is responsible for ensuring that appropriate credit 
policies are in place. Also monitors the quality, diversification and exposure of the loan portfolio, and recommends actions to ensure 
adequacy of the provision for credit losses.

Group Asset Liability Committee (ALCO) – Responsible for the establishment and maintenance of policies and programs  
for liquidity management and control, funding sources, investments, foreign exchange risk, interest rate risk and derivatives risk.  
Also oversees diversification of product offerings to ensure alignment with strategy and risk tolerances.

Group Capital Risk Committee – Responsible for the oversight of capital adequacy, CWB’s regulatory capital plan, Internal Capital 
Adequacy and Assessment Process (ICAAP) and stress testing. 

Group Operational Risk Committee – Reviews the group operational risk management framework, operational loss reporting and 
business continuity plans. Also reviews action plans for mitigating and improving the management of operational risk. 

Group Disclosure Committee – Responsible for reviewing CWB’s internal controls over financial reporting, and disclosure controls 
and procedures to help ensure the accuracy, completeness and timeliness of related public disclosures.

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

49

 
To support the overall governance structure, CWB has adopted a “three lines of defense” model.

Table 26 – Three Lines of Defense

First Line

Business and Support Areas

- Own risk

-  Identify and manage risk through the 

Second Line

Oversight Functions

Third Line

Internal Audit

-  Establish group-wide frameworks for risk 

management and compliance

-  Provide independent assurance that risk 
management controls and governance 
processes are adequate and functioning 
as intended

establishment of policies and procedures 

-  Provide oversight and independent 

-  Ensure activities conform with risk 

challenge to business and support areas

management policies and authorities

-  Monitor and report on compliance with 

-  Develop and maintain effective  

internal controls

- Monitor and report activities

risk policies

Internal Audit – Provides independent, objective assurance  
and consulting services designed to improve CWB’s operations.  
The scope of work includes determining whether the network of  
risk management controls and governance processes, as designed  
and implemented by management, are adequate and functioning 
in the intended manner. The Chief Internal Auditor (CIA) reports 
functionally to the Audit Committee.

While CWB’s operations are exposed to numerous types of risk,  
certain risks, identified as principal, have the greatest potential to 
materially impact operations and financial performance.

The following CWB functional areas provide key support within  
the group-wide risk management framework:

Group Risk Management – Provides independent oversight of 
enterprise risk management. To assist the Group Risk Committee  
and the Board, the head of the Group Risk Management currently  
acts in the capacity of CRO and reports functionally to the Board.

Regulatory Compliance – Establishes risk-based processes to  
actively manage known and emerging risks related to applicable 
regulatory requirements. The General Counsel acts in the capacity of 
Chief Compliance Officer (CCO) and reports functionally to the Board.

Finance – Provides independent oversight of processes to manage 
financial reporting and capital risk. Provides oversight on financial 
reporting, capital adequacy, external credit ratings, regulatory 
reporting, tax and accounting-related functions. The Chief Financial 
Officer (CFO) reports functionally to the Audit Committee.

CREDIT RISk 

Credit risk is the risk that a financial loss will be incurred due to the failure of a counterparty to discharge its contractual commitment 
or obligation to CWB. 

Risk Overview

The main source of credit risk exposure for CWB results from its 
focus and expertise in granting loans and leases. CWB’s 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 CWB’s relatively stable provision for credit losses 
and consistently low write-offs measured as a percentage of total loans.

50 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

Risk Governance

The credit approval process is centrally controlled, with all 
significant credit requests submitted to Credit Risk Management 
for adjudication. Credit Risk Management is independent of the 
function of the originating business. Requests for credit approval 

beyond the lending limit of the CEO are referred to the Group 
Credit Risk Committee or to the Loans Committee of the Board 
for approval, depending on the size of the exposure.

Risk Management

CWB is committed to a number of important principles  
to manage credit exposures, which include:

•	  ongoing development of credit analytics reporting  

to assess portfolio risks at a granular level;

•	 oversight provided by the Loans Committee of the Board; 

•	  pricing of credits commensurate with risk to ensure  

•	  delegated lending authorities that are clearly communicated 

to lenders and other personnel engaged in the credit granting 
process;

an appropriate financial return;

•	  management of growth while maintaining the quality  

of loans;

•	  credit policies, guidelines and directives which are 

•	  early recognition of problem accounts and immediate  

communicated within all branches and business lines, and  
to 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 standard risk-rating classification established  

for all credits;

•	  a review at least annually of credit risk-rating classifications  
and 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;

action to protect the safety of CWB’s capital;

•	  delegation of loans deemed to carry higher risks 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 Internal Audit, which 
includes direct reporting of results to senior management,  
the CEO and the Audit Committee of the Board; 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 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. The policy is to 
limit loans to connected corporate borrowers to not more than 
10% of CWB’s shareholders’ equity. Generally, CWB’s lending 
limit is $50 million for a single risk exposure.  

However, for certain quality connections that confirm debt 
service capacity and loan security from more than one source, 
the limit is generally $75 million. CWB clients with larger 
borrowing requirements can be accommodated through loan 
syndications with other financial institutions.

Environmental Risk

Portfolio Quality

While the day-to-day operations of CWB 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 CWB’s satisfaction, the application will 
be denied. 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.

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 
timely action when problems develop. Lending within the Bank is 
largely directed toward small- and medium-sized businesses operating 
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 of 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 in select 
regions of Ontario. 

For additional information, see the Loans and Credit Quality sections  
of this MD&A.

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

51

 
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

Risk Governance

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, preferred shares and common shares 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. 

The Board annually approves asset liability management policies 
specifying interest rate and foreign exchange exposure limits, and 
regularly reviews actual positions 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

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 CWB’s 
position and decide future actions. 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 
stress testing 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, 2013 for select time intervals.

The analysis in Note 28 is a static measurement of interest rate 
sensitivity gaps at a specific point in time, and there is potential for 
these gaps to change significantly over a short period. 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 represented 1.2% of total 
assets at October 31, 2013, down from 4.5% one year ago, while 
the one-month and under gap decreased to 6.7%, from 9.1% a year 
earlier. To the extent possible within CWB’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.

52 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

Of the $6,289 million in fixed term deposit liabilities maturing within 
one year from October 31, 2013, approximately $3,412 million (22% 
of total deposit liabilities) mature by April 30, 2014. The term in which 
maturing deposits are renewed will have an impact on the future asset 
liability structure and, hence, interest rate sensitivity. Approximately 
$324 million of the fixed term deposit liabilities maturing within one 
month are deposits redeemable at any time.

•	 a constant structure in the interest sensitive asset/liability portfolios;

•	 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.

The estimated sensitivity of net interest income to a change in interest 
rates is presented in Table 27. 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:

Table 27 – Estimated Sensitivity of Net Interest Income as a Result of One Percentage  
Point Change in Interest Rates
($ thousands)

2013 

$ 

4,176 

$ 

14,545 

2012

4,411

15,086

3.3 % 

3.8 %

2013 

2012

$ 

(6,796) 

$ 

(6,289)

(23,853) 

(21,534)

(5.3) % 

(5.4) %

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

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 

Higher sensitivity to a decrease in rates is due to asymmetry in the 
impact of falling rates on loans and deposits. A decrease of one-
percentage point in rates is assumed to reduce loan yields by an 
equivalent amount. However, the assumed change in total deposit 
costs is lower because deposits yielding less than one percent at the 
beginning of the period are only adjusted to zero. 

It is estimated that a one percentage point increase in all interest  
rates at October 31, 2013 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 $14.4 million,  
net of tax (October 31, 2012 – $12.6 million); it is estimated that a 
one percentage point decrease in all interest rates at October 31, 2013 
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 $14.4 million,  
net of tax (October 31, 2012 – $12.6 million). 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

53

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
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, CWB has assets 
and liabilities denominated in U.S. dollars. At October 31, 2013, 
assets denominated in U.S. dollars were 1.2% (2012 – 1.1%) of 
total assets and U.S. dollar liabilities were 1.3% (2012 – 1.2%)  
of total liabilities. Currencies other than U.S. dollars are not bought 
or sold other than to meet specific client needs. Therefore, CWB 
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. Any deviations from policy are reported 
regularly to ALCO and quarterly to the Board. 

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 or 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 company-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 
manages liquidity risk within an appropriate threshold.

CWB’s key risk mitigation strategies include:

•	  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 high quality liquid assets and 
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 CWB under times of stress. 

Refer to the Deposit and Liquidity Management sections of this MD&A 
for additional information.

Risk Governance

Liquidity management is centralized to better facilitate the 
effective management of liquidity risk. The Board annually 
approves asset liability management 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 the overall liquidity position, 
status and trends. 

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

54 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

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 – CWB’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 – Oversight by Treasury of all significant liquidity 
risks supports 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 company-specific (micro) disruptions on CWB’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 understand the 
potential behaviour of various positions on CWB’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 – CWB actively manages the 

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

•	  Core liquidity – CWB 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. 

OSFI issued a consultative paper entitled Liquidity Adequacy 
Requirements in November 2013 which formalizes many of the 
regulations issued by the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) in the 
International Framework for Liquidity Risk, Measurement, Standards 
and Monitoring. Canadian banks are expected to comply with the 
Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR) in January 2015, while implementation 
of the Net Stable Funding Ratio (NSFR) is delayed until 2018. 

OSFI has introduced a monitoring tool called the Net Cumulative 
Cash Flow which will be implemented in 2014. Other international 
regulations, such as The Monitoring Tools for Intraday Liquidity 
Management, will be delayed until OSFI can assess how to most 
effectively implement them within the Canadian banking environment.

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

55

 
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, 2013:

Table 28 – Contractual Obligations
($ thousands)

Lease commitments 

Purchase obligations for capital expenditures 

October 31, 2013 

October 31, 2012 

Credit ratings

  Within 1 
Year 

1 to 3 
Years 

4 to 5 
Years 

  More than
5 Years 

Total

$ 

$ 

$ 

11,893 

$ 

23,395 

$ 

17,706 

$ 

50,910 

$ 

103,904

1,126 

13,019 

11,714 

$ 

$ 

2,043 

25,438 

22,579 

$ 

$ 

1,689 

19,395 

16,273 

$ 

$ 

1,689 

52,599 

22,459 

$ 

$ 

6,547

110,451

73,025

CWB’s ability to efficiently access unsecured capital market funding 
on a cost-effective basis is partially dependent upon the maintenance 
of satisfactory credit ratings. Such credit ratings, accompanied with a 
stable or positive outlook, increase the breadth of clients and investors 
able to participate in various deposit and debt offerings, while also 
lowering CWB’s overall cost of capital. 

Credit ratings are largely determined by the quality of earnings, the 
adequacy of capital, the effectiveness of risk management programs 
and the opinions of rating agencies related to creditworthiness of the 
financial sector as a whole. There can be no assurance that CWB’s 

credit ratings and the corresponding outlook will not be changed, 
potentially resulting in adverse consequences for 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 consider market price 
or address the 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, 2013. 
Ratings on short-term debt and preferred shares were initiated in fiscal 2013.

Table 29 – Credit Ratings

CWB credit ratings issued by DBRS, along with the corresponding outlook, were last  
confirmed on October 16, 2013. 

Long-term 
senior debt and 
deposits

Short-term debt

Subordinated 
debentures

Preferred shares

Outlook

DBRS 

A (low)

R-1 (low)

BBB (high)

Pfd-3 (high)

Stable

56 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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 Overview

Risk Governance

Capital management involves a dynamic and ongoing process to 
determine, allocate and maintain appropriate amounts of capital.  
The optimal amount and composition of capital must consider 
regulatory and economic capital requirements, as well as the 
expectations 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 CWB, 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.

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

Risk Management

The following are key elements of capital risk management:

•	  The regulatory capital plan, inclusive of capital management policies 
and three-year capital projections, is completed at least annually. 

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

•	  Regulatory capital ratios are reported to senior management and 

the Board on a monthly basis.

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

OPERATIONAL RISk

Operational risk is the risk of loss resulting from human error, inadequate or failed processes, systems or controls, or external events. 
There are two subsets of operational risk: people risk and regulatory risk. People risk is the risk that CWB is not able to retain and 
attract sufficient qualified resources to implement its strategies and/or achieve its objectives. Regulatory risk is defined below.

Risk Overview

Operational risk is inherent in all of CWB’s business activities, including 
banking, trust, wealth management and insurance operations, and 
is embedded in processes that support the management of principal 
risks such as credit, liquidity, market, capital and reputational risk. 
CWB is exposed to operational risk from internal business activities, 
external threats and outsourced business activities. 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. 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 2012 or 2013, and is increasingly utilizing  
data to measure, monitor and manage operational risk exposures.

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

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

57

 
Additional key components include:

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

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

•	  continual enhancements to fraud prevention processes, policies  

and communication of same; 

•	  established “whistleblower” processes and employee codes  

of conduct;

•	 maintenance of an outsourcing management program;

•	  at least annual assessment and benchmarking of the amount  

and type of business insurance to ensure coverage is appropriate;

•	  human resource policies and processes to ensure staff are 

adequately trained for the tasks for which they are responsible; 

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

•	  documented policies and procedures to set minimum control 

standards, which are critical communication and training tools;

•	  enhanced focus on data quality as an important and strategic asset, 

particularly in the regulated environment;

•	  use of technology that incorporates automated systems with 

built-in controls, active management of technology configuration 
and change management, and information security management 
programs; 

•	  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).

Risk Governance

Business and support areas are fully accountable for the  
management and control of significant operational risks to which  
they are exposed. The Group Operational Risk Committee has 
responsibility for operational risk, with oversight by the Board,  
Group Risk Committee and senior management. The Group Risk 
Management function is responsible for the continual enhancement  
of the Operational Risk Framework and supporting policies.  
The Board has ultimate oversight and approves the Group’s 
Operational Risk Management Framework with support from  
various Board committees.

Risk Management

Following is a summary of strategies and factors that assist with  
the effective management of operational risk:

•	  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

•	  Flat organizational 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 operational  

risk management to all levels 

•	  Management that is very engaged with promoting  

CWB’s operational risk tolerance and appetite

•	  Ongoing enhancement of group-wide operational risk  

management processes 

key elements of the Operational Risk Management Framework 
include:

•	  Common 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 key 
operational risk exposures and assess whether appropriate risk-
mitigating internal controls are in place and operating effectively. 
Action plans may result where additional strategies are identified  
to reduce risk exposure.

•	  Operational risk reporting – Loss data monitoring is important  
to maintain awareness of identified operational risks and to assist 
management in taking constructive action to reduce exposures  
to future losses. 

58 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

REGULATORY RISk

Regulatory risk is the risk of negative impact to business activities, earnings or capital, regulatory relationships or reputation as a result 
of non-compliance with applicable regulatory requirements.

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 most sources  
of regulatory risk are outside of management’s direct control,  
CWB takes what it believes to be reasonable and prudent measures 
designed to ensure material 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 

REPUTATION RISk

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 and the Board. Notwithstanding the additional 
resources, the volume, pace and implementation of new and 
amended regulations and standards increases the risk of unintended 
consequences for all regulated entities and unintended  
non-compliance for CWB.

Reputation risk is the consequence of not managing risks effectively and cannot be considered in isolation from other risks.

Reputation risk is the consequence of not managing risks effectively 
and cannot be considered in isolation from other risks. Negative public 
opinion can result from actual or alleged misconduct in any number 
of activities, either on the part of employees or external partners, 
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 CWB’s ability to 
attract and retain clients and/or employees, 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 the Board.

All directors, officers and employees have a responsibility  
to conduct their activities in accordance with CWB'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.

INSURANCE RISk 

Insurance risk is the risk of financial loss due to actual experience being different from that assumed in insurance product pricing and 
reserving. Insurance contracts provide financial protection for the insured by transferring risks to the insurer in exchange for premiums. 
Unfavourable experience could emerge due to adverse fluctuations in timing, size or frequency of claims, or associated expenses. 

CWB is exposed to insurance risk through its wholly owned subsidiary, 
CDI, which offers home and auto insurance to customers in BC and 
Alberta. Accordingly, CWB’s operations are subject to uncertainties 
and fluctuations in earnings based on elements of risk associated with 
these lines of business. These elements include cyclical patterns in the 
industry and unpredictable developments, including weather-related 
and other natural catastrophes. CDI carries reinsurance coverage as 
part of its strategy to manage these risks. The insurance 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 and reinsurance 
risk. Policies and procedures have been established to manage 
insurance-related risk, as well as other categories of risk to which  
CWB is exposed through CDI. 

The risk that CDI 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 it from such risks. Reinsurance risk includes the 
risk that reinsurance counterparties are not financially strong and that 
underwriting strategies are inappropriately matched with reinsurance 
programs. CDI performs financial due diligence on prospective 
reinsurers and only purchases coverage from a list of reviewed  
and approved companies. 

CDI 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 CDI’s perspectives on regulations.

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

59

 
OTHER RISk FACTORS

In addition to the risks described above, other risk factors, including 
those below and those identified in the forward-looking statements 
section, may adversely affect CWB’s businesses and financial results. 

General Business and Economic Conditions

The majority of CWB’s business is conducted in Western Canada. 
Accordingly, CWB’s overall financial performance is 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 CWB’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. 

Information Systems and Technology

CWB is highly dependent upon information technology and 
supporting infrastructure, such as voice, data and network access. 
In addition to internal resources, various third parties provide key 
components of the infrastructure and applications. Disruptions in 
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 to conduct regular business and/or deliver products 
and services to clients. Ongoing diligence is required to ensure systems 
are secure from threats. 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. 

Level of Competition 

Adequacy of CWB’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 operations, CWB is primarily subject to credit, market 
(mainly interest rate and foreign exchange), liquidity and funding, 
operational, reputation, regulatory, insurance, environmental, and 
other noted 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, CWB could be 
materially affected by unexpected financial losses and/or other harm.

Changes in Accounting Standards and Accounting 
Policies and Estimates

The IASB 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, many of which are beyond CWB’s control, 
may affect future results. Some of these factors 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 
associated risks.

CWB’s performance is impacted by the intensity of competition in  
the markets in which it operates. 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 it 
receives about customers and counterparties. In deciding whether 
to extend credit or enter into other transactions, CWB may rely 
on information provided by clients and counterparties 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 clients  
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.

60 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

UPDATED SHARE INFORMATION

As at November 25, 2013, there were 79,631,149 common  
shares outstanding. Also outstanding were employee stock options, 
which are or will be exercisable for up to 4,179,836 common shares  
for maximum proceeds of $112.7 million. On December 4, 2013,  
the Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of  
$0.19 per common share payable on January 9, 2014, to shareholders 
of record on December 17, 2013. The Board of Directors also declared  
a cash dividend of $0.453125 per Series 3 Preferred Share payable  
on January 31, 2014 to shareholders of record on January 23, 2014.

CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

As at October 31, 2013, an evaluation was carried out on  
the effectiveness of CWB’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, 2013, 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.

CWB’s certifying officers have limited the scope of the design  
and operating effectiveness of disclosure controls and procedures 
and internal control over financial reporting to exclude the controls, 
policies and procedures of McLean & Partners, acquired in the third 
quarter of 2013. This limitation will be removed no later than  
April 30, 2014.

These evaluations were conducted in accordance with the  
standards of Internal Control over Financial Reporting – Guidance 
for Smaller Public Companies, 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 CWB’s internal controls over financial 
reporting that occurred during the year ended October 31, 2013  
that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially 
affect, internal controls over financial reporting.

This Management’s Discussion and Analysis is dated  
December 4, 2013.

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

61

 
Consolidated Financial Statements

MANAGEMENT’S RESPONSIBILITY  
FOR FINANCIAL REPORTING

The consolidated financial statements of Canadian Western  
Bank (CWB) 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 CWB 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 CWB.

We, as CWB’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer,  
will certify CWB’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 CWB’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 CWB. 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 CWB. 
Their responsibilities include reviewing related party transactions and 
reporting to the Board of Directors those transactions which may 
have a material impact on CWB.

The Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions Canada,  
at least once a year, makes such examination and inquiry into the 
affairs of CWB 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 depositors and 
policyholders, are being duly observed and that CWB is in a sound 
financial condition.

kPMG LLP, the independent auditors appointed by the shareholders 
of CWB, 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.

Chris Fowler 
President and Chief Executive Officer

December 4, 2013

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

62 

CWB Group 2013 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, 2013 and 2012, the consolidated statements 
of income, comprehensive income, changes in equity and cash flows  
for the years ended October 31, 2013 and 2012, 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.

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 CWB’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 CWB’s internal control. An audit 
also includes evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies 
used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates made by 
management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the 
consolidated financial statements.

We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained in our audits is 
sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion.

OPINION

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, 
in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of Canadian 
Western Bank as at October 31, 2013 and 2012, and its consolidated 
financial performance and its consolidated cash flows for the years 
ended October 31, 2013 and 2012 in accordance with International 
Financial Reporting Standards.

Chartered Accountants 
Edmonton, Canada

December 4, 2013

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

63

 
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 

Loans 

Personal 

Business 

Allowance for credit losses 

Other

Property and equipment 
Goodwill 
Intangible assets 
Insurance related 
Derivative related 
Other assets 

Total Assets 

Liabilities and Equity
Deposits 

Personal 
Business and government 

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 

Total Equity 
Total Liabilities and Equity 

(Note 3)

$ 

As at 
  October 31 
2013 

As at 
  October 31 
2012 

83,856 
258,466 
5,673 
 347,995 

$ 

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

 927,077  
 410,984  
 894,271  
 2,232,332  

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

 2,502,295 

 2,292,388 

   13,160,384 

   11,743,021 

   15,662,679 

   14,035,409 

(85,786) 
   15,576,893 

(81,723)
   13,953,686 

 66,647  
 49,424  
70,197  
 64,365  
 4,509  
 107,898  
 363,040  
$  18,520,260  

 68,938 
 45,536 
 49,959 
 57,650 
 1,951 
 122,466 
346,500 
$  16,873,269 

$  9,420,754  
 6,105,286  
   15,526,040  

$  8,960,118 
 5,184,719 
   14,144,837 

 55,290  
 167,816  
36  
 -  
238,939  
 462,081  

 195,650  
 625,000  
 820,650  

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

 209,273 
 425,000 
634,273 

 208,815  
510,282  
 865,087  
 24,632  
 (3,389) 
 1,605,427  
 106,062  
 1,711,489  
$  18,520,260  

 209,750 
 490,218 
 733,298 
 22,468 
 9,247 
   1,464,981 
 105,244 
   1,570,225 
$  16,873,269

(Note 4)

 (Note 6)

 (Note 7) 

 (Note 8)  
 (Note 9) 

 (Note 9)  

 (Note 10) 

 (Note 11) 

 (Note 12)  

(Note 13)

 (Note 14)  
 (Note 11)  
 (Note 5)  

 (Note 15)  

 (Note 16)

 (Note 17) 
 (Note 17)  

 (Note 19)  

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

Allan W. Jackson 
Chair of the Board

64 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

Chris Fowler  
President and Chief Executive Officer

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
For the Year Ended October 31 
($ thousands, except per share amounts)

Interest Income

Loans 

Securities 

Deposits with regulated financial institutions 

Interest Expense 

Deposits 

Debt 

Net Interest Income 

Provision for Credit Losses 

Net Interest Income after Provision for Credit Losses 

Other Income

Trust and wealth management services 

Credit related 

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 

Net Income before Income Taxes 

Income Taxes 

Net Income 

Net Income Attributable to Non-Controlling Interests 

Net Income Attributable to Shareholders of CWB 

Preferred share dividends 

2013 

2012 

 $ 

735,404  

 $ 

686,534 

 44,952  

1,609  

 43,548 

 2,389 

 781,965  

 732,471 

 280,169 

 32,433  

 312,602  

 469,363  

 27,846  

 441,517  

 24,511  

 21,685  

 16,279  

 15,094  

 10,272 

 3,059  

 -  

 4,082  

 94,982  

 536,499  

 269,772 

28,270 

 298,042 

 434,429 

 25,107 

 409,322 

 19,065 

19,705 

 17,353 

 12,449 

 9,227 

 3,255 

 (2,489)

 3,345 

 81,910 

 491,232 

 172,237  

 153,844 

 42,825  

 47,435  

 262,497  

 274,002  

 64,052  

 39,502 

 43,220 

 236,566 

 254,666 

 60,209 

(Note 7) 

(Note 21) 

(Note 29) 

(Note 24) 

 $ 

209,950  

 $ 

194,457 

(Note 19) 

7,568  

 7,052 

 $ 

202,382  

 $ 

187,405 

 15,183  

 15,208 

Premium paid on purchase of preferred shares for cancellation 

(Note 17) 

 36  

 - 

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.

 $ 

187,163  

 $ 

172,197 

 79,147  

 79,544  

76,841 

 77,460 

 $ 

2.36  

 $ 

 2.35  

2.24 

2.22

(Note 25)

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

65

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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 net income (2) 

Derivatives designated as cash flow hedges

Gains from change in fair value (3) 

Reclassification to net 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 CWB 

Non-controlling interests 

Comprehensive Income for the Year 

(1) Net of income tax of $866 (2012 – $3,441). 
(2) Net of income tax of $3,934 (2012 – $3,320). 
(3) Net of income tax of $788 (2012 – $500). 
(4) Net of income tax of $424 (2012 – $169).

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

2013 

2012

$ 

209,950 

$ 

194,457

(2,553) 

(11,160) 

(13,713) 

2,332 

(1,255) 

1,077 

(12,636) 

9,580

(9,129)

451

1,430

(483)

947

1,398

$ 

197,314 

$ 

195,855

$ 

189,746 

$ 

188,803

7,568 

7,052 

$ 

197,314 

$ 

195,855

66 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
For the Year Ended October 31 
($ thousands)

Retained Earnings

Balance at beginning of year 

Net income attributable to shareholders of CWB 

Dividends - Preferred shares 

- Common shares 

Premium paid on purchase of preferred shares for cancellation 

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 of year 

Purchase of preferred shares for cancellation 

Balance at end of year 

Common Shares 

Balance at beginning of year 

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 settlement of contingent consideration 

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 

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 

Business acquisition 

Balance at end of year 

Total Equity 

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

2013  

2012 

(Note 17) 

(Note 17) 

(Note 17) 

$ 

733,298 

$ 

608,848

202,382 

(15,183) 

(55,374) 

(36) 

187,405

(15,208)

(47,747)

-

865,087 

733,298

9,247 

(13,713) 

1,077 

(3,389) 

7,849

451

947

9,247

209,750 

209,750

(935) 

- 

208,815 

209,750 

490,218 

14,404 

3,986 

1,674 

- 

510,282 

22,468 

6,150 

(3,986) 

24,632 

408,282

12,252

4,432

1,853 

63,399

490,218 

21,884

5,016

(4,432)

22,468

1,605,427 

1,464,981

105,244 

105,225

7,568 

(7,066) 

316 

7,052

(7,033)

- 

106,062 

105,244

$  1,711,489 

$  1,570,225

(Note 17) 

(Note 17) 

(Note 18)

(Note 32) 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

67

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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 

Change in operating assets and liabilities

Loans, net 

Deposits, net 

Securities sold under repurchase agreements, net 

Other items, net 

Cash Flows from Financing Activities 

Common shares issued, net of issuance costs 

Preferred shares purchased and cancelled 

Debentures issued 

Debentures redeemed 

Debt securities issued 

Debt securities repaid 

Dividends 

Distributions to non-controlling interests 

Cash Flows from Investing Activities

Interest bearing deposits with regulated financial institutions, net 

Securities, purchased 

Securities, sales proceeds 

Securities, matured 

Property, equipment and intangibles 

Business acquisition 

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.

68 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

2013  

2012 

$ 

209,950 

$ 

194,457

27,846 

21,572 

(7,444) 

6,150 

2,816 

5,507 

25,107

17,261 

8,981 

5,016 

(3,541)

(695)

(15,094) 

(12,449)

(1,651,053) 

(1,685,511)

1,381,203 

1,750,148 

(70,089) 

934 

70,089

24,283 

(87,702) 

393,146

16,078 

(971) 

250,000 

(50,000) 

90,596 

(104,219) 

(70,557) 

(7,066) 

123,861 

14,004 

-

-

(120,000)

226,249 

(106,855)

(62,955)

(7,033)

(56,590)

(81,284) 

57,128 

(6,004,062) 

(4,959,542)

3,839,290 

2,275,813 

(27,504) 

(10,098) 

(7,845) 

28,314 

5,925 

34,239 

$ 

2,855,832

1,711,152

(27,586)

-

(363,016)

(26,460)

32,385

5,925

83,856 

$ 

33,690

5,673 

(55,290) 

26,265 

(54,030)

$ 

$ 

$ 

34,239 

$ 

5,925

$ 

785,643 

$ 

724,759 

313,463 

65,989 

293,871

51,923

(Note 17) 

(Note 17) 

(Note 16) 

(Note 16) 

(Note 32) 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended October 31, 2013 and 2012 
($ thousands, except per share amounts)

1. NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND BASIS  
OF PRESENTATION

a) Reporting Entity

e) Basis of Consolidation

Canadian Western Bank (CWB) 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 4, 2013.

b) Statement of Compliance

These consolidated financial statements of CWB 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). 

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 CWB 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 CWB 
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)

•	 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 CWB and all of its subsidiaries, after the 
elimination of intercompany transactions and balances. Subsidiaries 
are defined as entities whose operations are controlled by CWB and 
are corporations in which CWB 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

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, 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.

CWB 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.

g) Functional and Foreign Currencies

The consolidated financial statements are presented in Canadian 
dollars, which is CWB’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 2013 Annual Report 

69

 
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. A key item for  
change in accounting under IFRS 10 is the de-consolidation of the  
trust through which CWB issues certain regulatory capital instruments.  
The de-consolidation of the trust would result in a reclassification 
of securities issued through Canadian Western Bank Capital Trust 
(Note 19) from non-controlling interest to deposit liabilities in the 
consolidated balance sheets, and the associated income statement 
charge would be reclassified from non-controlling interest to interest 
expense. Other than this reclassification, CWB does not expect the 
adoption of these standards to have a material impact on the financial 
position, cash flows or earnings of CWB. IFRS 10 and 12 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. 
This new standard is not expected to have a material impact on the 
financial position, cash flows or earnings of CWB.

IFRS 9 – Financial Instruments

In November 2013, the IASB removed the January 1, 2015  
mandatory effective date of IFRS 9 to provide sufficient time for 
preparers of financial statements to make the transition to the new 
requirements. IFRS 9 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. Additional amendments have 
been made to hedge accounting and measuring an entity's own credit 
risk, both of which are not expected to materially impact the financial 
position, cash flows or earnings of CWB.  

CWB continues to monitor the IASB's 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 CWB’s future 
consolidated financial statements.

h) Specific Accounting Policies

The accounting policies set out below have been applied consistently 
to all periods presented in these consolidated financial statements. 
To facilitate a better understanding of CWB’s consolidated financial 
statements, the significant accounting policies are disclosed in the notes, 
where applicable, with related financial disclosures by major caption:

Note 
2 
3 
4 
5 
6 
7 
8 
9 
10 
11 
12 
13 
14 
15 
16 
17 
18 
19 
20 
21 
22 
23 
24 
25 
26 
27 
28 
29 
30 
31 
32 
33 
34 

Topic 
Financial instruments 
Cash resources 
Securities 
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 
Business acquisition  
Subsidiaries 
Comparative figures

i) Future Accounting Changes

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

IFRS 13 – Fair Value Measurement

The IASB has issued new guidance on fair value measurement  
and disclosure requirements. IFRS 13 applies to other IFRS standards 
that require or permit fair value measurements or disclosures about 
fair value measurements and sets out a framework on how to measure 
fair value using the assumptions that market participants would use 
when pricing the asset or liability under current market conditions, 
including assumptions about risk. IFRS 13 is effective for annual 
periods beginning on or after January 1, 2013 and is to be applied 
prospectively. This new standard is not expected to have a material 
impact on the financial position, cash flows or earnings of CWB.

70 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

2. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

4. SECURITIES

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,  
loans, derivative financial instruments and certain other assets. 
Financial instrument liabilities include deposits, securities sold under 
repurchase agreements, derivative financial instruments, debt and 
certain other liabilities.

The use of financial instruments exposes CWB to credit, liquidity  
and market risk. A discussion of how these are managed can be found 
in the Risk Management section of the 2013 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 and  
contingent consideration fair value changes are classified to other income.

3. CASH RESOURCES

Cash resources have been designated as available-for-sale and are 
reported on the consolidated balance sheets at fair value with changes 
in fair value reported in other comprehensive income, net of income 
taxes, 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 $258,466 (October 31, 2012 – 
$177,028), which is $569 (October 31, 2012 – $482) higher than 
amortized cost.

Securities have been designated as available-for-sale, are accounted  
for at settlement date and recorded on the consolidated balance sheets  
at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in other comprehensive 
income, net of income taxes, 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, CWB 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 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. 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

71

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

Securities issued or guaranteed by

Canada 

A province or municipality 

Other debt securities 

Equity securities

Preferred shares 

Common shares (1) 

Total 

(1) Common shares have no maturity date.

  Within 
1 Year 

Maturities 
1 to 
3 Years 

3 to 
5 Years 

Over 5 
Years 

As at 
 October 31 
2013 

As at
  October 31
2012

  $  570,076  $  248,497  $  108,504  $ 

-  $  927,077  $  980,200

280,316 

179,881 

35,487 

174,763 

90,192 

12,386 

4,989 

931 

410,984 

367,961 

478,622

371,044

127,828 

138,244 

78,257 

34,812 

- 

- 

- 

147,169 

379,141 

147,169 

398,752

107,482

  $  1,158,101  $  596,991  $  289,339  $  187,901  $  2,232,332  $  2,336,100

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

 Amortized 
Cost 

As at October 31, 2013 
 Unrealized 
 Unrealized 
Losses 
Gains 

Fair 
Value 

  Amortized 
Cost 

As at October 31, 2012
  Unrealized 
Gains 

  Unrealized 
Losses 

Fair
Value

Securities issued or guaranteed by

Canada 

$  926,445  $ 

652  $ 

20  $  927,077  $  980,024  $ 

270  $ 

94  $  980,200

A province or municipality 

Other debt securities 

Equity securities

Preferred shares 

Common shares 

Total 

410,823 

366,781 

395,442 

140,512 

227 

1,284 

1,444 

8,119 

66 

104 

410,984 

367,961 

478,689 

369,407 

17,745 

1,462 

379,141 

147,169 

391,781 

105,368 

93 

1,734 

8,249 

4,701 

160 

97 

478,622

371,044

1,278 

2,587 

398,752

107,482

$  2,240,003  $ 

11,726  $ 

19,397  $  2,232,332  $  2,325,269  $ 

15,047  $ 

4,216  $  2,336,100

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, 2013, 
CWB assessed the securities with unrealized losses and, based on 
available objective evidence, no impairment charges (2012 – nil)  
were included in gains on securities, net.

5. SECURITIES SOLD UNDER  
REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS

Securities sold under repurchase agreements represent a sale of  
Government of Canada securities by CWB effected with a simultaneous 
agreement to buy them back at a specified price on a future date, 
which is generally short term. The difference between the proceeds of 
the sale and the predetermined cost to be paid on a resale agreement  
is recorded as deposit interest expense. 

72 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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 CWB has commenced realization 
proceedings, or where CWB 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 CWB 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.

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.

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

As at October 31, 2013 

As at October 31, 2012

Gross 
  Amount 

Gross 
Impaired 
  Amount (2) 

Specific 
 Allowance 

Net 
Impaired 
Loans 

Gross 
Amount 

Gross 
Impaired 
  Amount (2) 

Specific 
  Allowance 

Net
Impaired
Loans

$ 2,502,295  $ 

17,052  $ 

748  $ 

16,304  $ 2,292,388  $ 

13,404  $ 

459  $ 

12,945

Personal 

Business

Real estate (1) 

  5,829,225 

Equipment financing and energy 

  3,239,788 

  4,091,371 

31,937 

10,610 

4,612 

6,349 

2,179 

293 

25,588 

  5,001,041 

8,431 

  2,874,423 

4,319 

  3,867,557 

23,022 

14,919 

15,495 

2,605 

8,524 

2,791 

20,417

6,395

12,704

Commercial 

Total 

Collective allowance (3) 

Net impaired loans after

collective allowance 

$ 15,662,679  $ 

64,211  $ 

9,569  $ 

54,642  $ 14,035,409  $ 

66,840  $ 

14,379  $ 

52,461

(76,217)   

  $ 

(21,575)   

(67,344)

  $ 

(14,883)

(1) Multi-family residential mortgages are included in real estate loans. 
(2) Gross impaired loans include foreclosed assets with a carrying value of $12,407 (October 31, 2012 – $10,462). CWB 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 $2,582 (2012 – $5,094).

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

73

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

Alberta 

British Columbia 

Ontario 

Saskatchewan 

Manitoba 

Other 

Total 

As at October 31, 2013 

As at October 31, 2012

Gross 
Impaired 
  Amount 

Specific 
 Allowance 

Net 
Impaired 
Loans 

Gross 
Impaired 
Amount 

Specific 
  Allowance 

Net
Impaired
Loans

  $ 

38,886  $ 

7,475  $ 

31,411  $ 

36,769  $ 

9,711  $ 

27,058

17,904 

2,886 

1,861 

1,214 

1,460 

476 

728 

381 

146 

363 

17,428 

22,629 

2,158 

1,480 

1,068 

1,097 

3,081 

2,309 

615 

1,437 

2,190 

1,167 

456 

203 

652 

  $ 

64,211  $ 

9,569 

54,642  $ 

66,840  $ 

14,379 

20,439

1,914

1,853

412

785

52,461

(67,344)

  $ 

(14,883)

Collective allowance (1) 

Net impaired loans after collective allowance 

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

(76,217)   

  $ 

(21,575)   

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, 2013 

  1 - 30 days 

  31 - 60 days 

  61 - 90 days 

  More than
90 days 

Personal 

Business 

As at October 31, 2012 

$ 

$ 

$ 

14,130 

$ 

11,239 

$ 

1,066 

$ 

2,400 

$ 

10,580 

24,710 

25,849 

$ 

$ 

36,863 

48,102 

27,799 

$ 

$ 

1,009 

2,075 

4,194 

$ 

$ 

- 

2,400 

375 

$ 

$ 

Total

28,835

48,452

77,287

58,217

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

October 31, 2013 

($ millions) 

Personal 

Business

Real estate 

Commercial 

Equipment financing

and energy (1) 

Total Loans (2) 

Composition 

Percentage

October 31, 2013 

October 31, 2012 

BC 

AB 

ON 

SK 

MB 

Other 

$ 

830  $ 

1,049  $ 

394  $ 

159  $ 

69  $ 

1  $ 

2,619 

1,421 

568 

4,608 

2,303 

1,890 

1,378 

5,571 

372 

355 

572 

1,299 

399 

196 

271 

866 

127 

113 

105 

345 

9 

116 

346 

471 

Composition Percentage    

Oct. 31 

Oct. 31

2013 

16 % 

2012

16 %

37 

26 

21 

84 

36

28

20

84

Total 

2,502 

5,829 

4,091 

3,240 

13,160 

$ 

5,438  $ 

6,620  $ 

1,693  $ 

1,025  $ 

414  $ 

472  $ 

15,662 

100 % 

100 %

35 % 

33 % 

42 % 

45 % 

11 % 

10 % 

7 % 

6 % 

2 % 

3 % 

3 % 

3 % 

100 %

100 %

(1) Includes securitized leases reported on-balance sheet of $230 (October 31, 2012 – $238). 
(2) This table does not include an allocation of the allowance for credit losses.

74 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
7. ALLOWANCE FOR CREDIT LOSSES

An allowance for credit losses is maintained which, in CWB’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 CWB. 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.

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

Balance at beginning of year 

Provision for credit losses 

Write-offs 

Recoveries 

Specific 
 Allowance 

2013 
  Collective 
 Allowance 

Specific 
  Allowance 

Total 

2012
  Collective 
  Allowance 

Total

  $ 

14,379  $ 

67,344  $ 

81,723  $ 

10,650  $ 

61,330  $ 

71,980

18,973 

8,873 

27,846 

19,093 

6,014 

(26,652)   

2,869 

- 

- 

(26,652)   

(17,712)   

2,869 

2,348 

- 

- 

25,107

(17,712)

2,348

Balance at end of year 

  $ 

9,569  $ 

76,217  $ 

85,786  $ 

14,379  $ 

67,344  $ 

81,723

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

75

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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: 20 years

•	 Equipment and furniture: 3 to 10 years

•	  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, 2012 

$ 

59,172 

$ 

23,615 

$ 

24,250 

$ 

32,518 

$ 

139,555

Leasehold 
Improvements 

Land and 
Buildings 

  Computer 
  Equipment 

Office
  Equipment 

Total

Additions 

Disposals 

Balance at October 31, 2013 

Accumulated depreciation and impairment

Balance at November 1, 2012 

Depreciation for the year 

Disposals 

Balance at October 31, 2013 

2,853 

- 

62,025 

26,373 

4,969 

- 

31,342 

133 

- 

23,748 

5,657 

651 

- 

6,308 

3,586 

(105) 

27,731 

18,220 

2,730 

(105) 

20,845 

2,227 

(33) 

34,712 

20,367 

2,740 

(33) 

23,074 

8,799

(138)

148,216

70,617

11,090

(138)

81,569

Net carrying amount at October 31, 2013 

$ 

30,683 

$ 

17,440 

$ 

6,886 

$ 

11,638 

$ 

66,647

Cost

Balance at November 1, 2011 

$ 

50,050 

$ 

23,439 

$ 

21,543 

$ 

28,345 

$ 

123,377

Additions 

Disposals 

Balance at October 31, 2012 

Accumulated depreciation and impairment

Balance at November 1, 2011 

Depreciation for the year 

Disposals 

Balance at October 31, 2012 

9,122 

- 

59,172 

22,122 

4,251 

- 

26,373 

176 

- 

23,615 

4,975 

682 

- 

5,657 

2,707 

- 

24,250 

15,883 

2,337 

- 

18,220 

4,265 

(92) 

32,518 

17,898 

2,561 

(92) 

20,367 

16,270

(92)

139,555

60,878

9,831

(92)

70,617

Net carrying amount at October 31, 2012 

$ 

32,799 

$ 

17,958 

$ 

6,030 

$ 

12,151 

$ 

68,938

76 

CWB Group 2013 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, including identifiable intangible assets, and liabilities 
assumed. 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, CWB’s 
cash-generating units with goodwill allocated are:

•	 National Leasing Group Inc. (NL);

•	 Canadian Direct Insurance Incorporated (CDI);

•	 Valiant Trust Company (VTC); 

•	 Adroit Investment Management Ltd. (AIM); and,

•	 McLean & Partners Wealth Management Ltd. (M&P).

Balance at November 1, 2012 

  $ 

35,776  $ 

3,254  $ 

3,679  $ 

2,827  $ 

-  $ 

45,536

NL 

CDI 

VTC 

AIM 

M&P 

Total

Business acquisition  

Goodwill impairment 

Balance at October 31, 2013 

Balance at November 1, 2011 

Partial ownership reduction 

Goodwill impairment 

Balance at October 31, 2012 

Intangible assets

(Note 32) 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

3,888 

3,888

- 

-

  $ 

35,776  $ 

3,254  $ 

3,679  $ 

2,827  $ 

3,888  $ 

49,424

  $ 

35,776  $ 

3,254  $ 

3,679  $ 

2,982  $ 

-  $ 

45,691

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

(155)   

- 

- 

- 

(155)

-

  $ 

35,776  $ 

3,254  $ 

3,679  $ 

2,827  $ 

-  $ 

45,536

Intangible assets represent identifiable non-monetary assets  
and are acquired either separately through a business combination, 
or generated internally. 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 and trade names, 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. 

Amortization of intangible assets with finite useful lives is  
reported in other expenses on the consolidated statements of  
income and provided on a straight-line basis as follows:

•	 Customer relationships: 10 to 15 years

•	 Computer software: 3 to 15 years

•	 Non-competition agreements: 4 to 5 years

•	 Other: 3 to 5 years

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

77

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cost

Balance at November 1, 2012 

  $ 

37,515  $ 

48,528  $ 

5,593  $ 

2,191  $ 

1,900  $ 

95,727

  Customer 
  Relationships 

  Computer 
  Software 

Non-
 competition
 Agreements   Trademarks 

Other 

Total

Business acquisition 

Additions 

Balance at October 31, 2013 

Accumulated amortization

Balance at November 1, 2012 

Amortization 

Balance at October 31, 2013 

(Note 32) 

5,195 

- 

42,710 

10,425 

2,767 

13,192 

16,875 

65,403 

29,805 

4,068 

33,873 

- 

4,126 

- 

518 

- 

9,719 

2,709 

3,858 

1,373 

5,231 

- 

- 

- 

- 

1,830 

3,730 

1,680 

98 

1,778 

9,839

18,705

124,271

45,768

8,306

54,074

Net carrying amount at October 31, 2013 

  $ 

29,518  $ 

31,530  $ 

4,488  $ 

2,709  $ 

1,952  $ 

70,197

Cost

Balance at November 1, 2011 

Partial ownership reduction 

Additions 

Balance at October 31, 2012 

Accumulated amortization

Balance at November 1, 2011 

Amortization 

Balance at October 31, 2012 

  $ 

37,668  $ 

37,210  $ 

5,731  $ 

2,206  $ 

1,900  $ 

84,715

(153)   

- 

37,515 

7,856 

2,569 

10,425 

11,318 

48,528 

24,956 

4,849 

29,805 

- 

(138)   

- 

(15)   

- 

- 

- 

5,593 

2,191 

1,900 

2,726 

1,132 

3,858 

- 

- 

- 

1,582 

98 

1,680 

(306)

11,318

95,727

37,120

8,648

45,768

Net carrying amount at October 31, 2012 

  $ 

27,090  $ 

18,723  $ 

1,735  $ 

2,191  $ 

220  $ 

49,959

Impairment

The carrying amounts of CWB’s goodwill and 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, 
CWB tests for impairment. For goodwill and intangible assets with 
indefinite useful lives, the impairment tests are performed each year. 

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 CWB’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 3%, which is based on the  
long-term forecast Canadian gross domestic product growth rates.  
The forecast period is based on CWB’s long-term perspective with 
respect to the operation of these cash-generating units. 

•	  A pre-tax discount rate of 8% was applied in determining  

the recoverable amounts, which was 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. CWB estimates that reasonable  
possible changes in these assumptions are not expected to cause  
the recoverable amounts of the cash-generating units to decline  
below the carrying amounts.

No impairment losses on goodwill or intangible assets were  
identified during 2013 or 2012.

78 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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 

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 CWB’s asset liability 
management policies. It is CWB’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 CWB’s common share price. 
Foreign exchange contracts are only used for the purposes of  
meeting needs of clients or day-to-day business.

Use of Derivatives

CWB 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 CWB 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; and,

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

Interest rate swaps are used as hedging instruments to manage 
interest rate risk. CWB 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. The Asset Liability 
Committee (ALCO) of CWB 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.

As at 
  October 31 
2013 

As at
  October 31
2012

$ 

36,615 

$ 

11,905 

8,167 

6,760 

918 

33,486

11,369

6,686

5,237

872

$ 

64,365 

$ 

57,650

Exposure to foreign exchange risk is not material to CWB’s overall 
financial position. 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.  

Equity swap transactions are used as hedging instruments to  
manage risk related to the payout of restricted share units that  
have not yet vested. CWB 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

CWB 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 designated as cash flow hedges 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.

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

79

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Embedded Derivatives

Certain derivatives embedded in other financial instruments 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. Identified embedded derivatives 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 of 
outstanding transactions and do not represent the potential gain or 
loss associated with the market risk or credit risk of such instruments. 
The replacement cost represents the cost of replacing, at current 
market rates, all contracts with a positive fair value. The future credit 
exposure represents the potential for future changes in value and is 
based on a formula prescribed by OSFI. The credit risk equivalent  
is the sum of the future credit exposure and the replacement cost.  
The risk-weighted balance represents the credit risk equivalent 
weighted according to the credit worthiness of the counterparty as 
prescribed by OSFI. Additional discussion of OSFI’s capital adequacy 
requirements is provided within the Capital Management section of 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis.

  Replace- 
ment 
Cost 

As at October 31, 2013 
Future 
Credit 
  Exposure 

Credit 
Risk 
 Equivalent 

Risk- 
 Weighted 
  Balance 

  Notional 
  Amount 

  Notional 
  Amount 

  Replace- 
ment 
Cost 

As at October 31, 2012
Future 
Credit 
  Exposure 

Credit    
Risk 
  Equivalent 

Risk-
  Weighted
Balance

Interest rate swaps 

$ 800,000  $ 

367  $  1,494  $  1,861  $ 

372  $ 225,000  $ 

154  $ 

-  $ 

154  $ 

Equity swaps 

Foreign exchange

contracts 

Total 

  17,470 

4,131 

45 

4,176 

835 

  15,445 

  1,778 

40 

1,818 

1,235 

11 

12 

23 

10 

2,450 

19 

24 

43 

$ 818,705  $  4,509  $  1,551  $  6,060  $  1,217  $ 242,895  $  1,951  $ 

64  $  2,015  $ 

31

363

17

411

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, 2013 

As at October 31, 2012

Favourable Contracts 
Fair 
Value 

  Notional 
Amount 

Unfavourable Contracts 
Fair 
Value 

  Notional 
Amount 

Favourable Contracts 
Fair 
Value 

Notional 
Amount 

Unfavourable Contracts
Notional 
Fair
Value
Amount 

Interest rate swaps 

designated as hedges 

$  675,000  $ 

367  $  125,000  $ 

(32)  $  225,000  $ 

154  $ 

-  $ 

Equity swaps designated

as hedges 

Foreign exchange contracts 

17,470 

784 

4,131 

11 

- 

451 

- 

(4) 

15,445 

1,485 

1,778 

19 

- 

965 

Total 

$  693,254  $ 

4,509  $  125,451  $ 

(36)  $  241,930  $ 

1,951  $ 

965  $ 

-

-

(10)

(10)

80 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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) 

2013  

1,955  

76 

$ 

$ 

2012 

598 

210

$ 

$ 

The following table summarizes maturities of derivative financial instruments and weighted average interest rates paid and received on contracts:

As at October 31, 2013 
Maturity 

As at October 31, 2012
Maturity

1 Year or Less 

More than 1 Year 

1 Year or Less 

More than 1 Year

  Notional 
  Amount 

 Contractual   
Interest 
Rate 

  Notional 
  Amount 

 Contractual   
Interest    
Rate 

Notional 
Amount 

 Contractual 
Interest 
Rate 

Notional 
Amount 

 Contractual
Interest
Rate

Interest rate swaps  

designated as hedges (1) 

$  525,000 

1.24%  $  275,000 

1.33%  $  225,000 

1.28%  $ 

- 

- 

Equity swaps designated 

as hedges (2) 

Foreign exchange contracts (3) 

8,215 

1,235 

2.37% 

9,255 

2.45% 

- 

7,494 

2,450 

2.39% 

7,951 

2.54%

- 

Total 

$  534,450 

  $  284,255 

  $  234,944 

  $ 

7,951

(1) CWB 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 December 2013 and April 2015. 
(2) Equity swaps designated as hedges mature between June 2014 and June 2016.  
(3) Foreign exchange contracts mature between December 2013 and April 2014. The contractual interest rate is not meaningful for foreign exchange contracts.

During the year, $2,332 net unrealized after-tax gains (2012 – $1,430) 
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 (2012 – 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,  
$1,255 of net gains after tax (2012 – $483) were reclassified  
to net income.

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

81

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(Note 24)  

As at  
  October 31  
2013  

As at 
  October 31 
2012 

$ 

44,698 

$ 

28,358 

19,324 

7,410 

 2,011 

6,019 

78 

48,377 

30,831 

23,363 

6,400

5,290 

5,133 

3,072 

$ 

107,898  

$ 

122,466

As at October 31, 2013
Business and
 Government 

Individuals 

Total

$ 

30,337 

$ 

615,166 

$ 

645,503

2,741,951 

6,648,466 

1,622,400 

4,364,351

3,867,720 

  10,516,186

$  9,420,754 

$  6,105,286 

$  15,526,040

As at October 31, 2012

Individuals 

Business and
  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  

As at 

  October 31  
2013  

  October 31 
2012 

(Note 21)  

$ 

89,742 

$ 

75,481 

2,033 

560 

86,218 

71,790 

1,737 

557

$ 

167,816 

$ 

160,302

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 $2,108 (2012 – $1,703).

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.

Payable on demand 

Payable after notice 

Payable on a fixed date 

Total 

Payable on demand 

Payable after notice 

Payable on a fixed date 

Total 

14. INSURANCE-RELATED OTHER LIABILITIES

Unpaid claims and adjustment expenses 

Unearned premiums 

Due to insurance companies and policyholders 

Unearned commissions 

Total 

82 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
15. OTHER LIABILITIES

Accounts payable  

Accrued interest payable  

Deferred tax liability  

Income taxes payable  

Deferred revenue  

Leasehold inducements  

Acquisition contingent consideration  

Other  

Total  

16. DEBT

a) Debt Securities

CWB securitizes leases to third parties. These securitizations do  
not qualify for derecognition as CWB 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 removed 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, 2013  
was $195,650 (October 31, 2012 – $209,273), and the associated 
carrying amount of the lease assets recorded on the balance sheet  
was $230,353 (October 31, 2012 – $237,698), which does not  
include an allocation of the allowance for credit losses.

As at 
  October 31 
2013 

As at 
   October 31 
2012

$ 

112,500 

$ 

105,790

104,866 

10,360 

1,663 

3,431 

3,840  

1,679 

600 

105,728 

8,897 

12,386 

3,068 

2,966 

- 

668 

$ 

238,939 

$ 

239,503

(Note 24) 

(Note 29) 

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) 

3.463% (2) 

5.571%  (3) 

5.950% (4) 

Total 

Maturity  
Date  

Earliest Date  
 Redeemable  
 by CWB at Par  

As at  
October 31  
2013  

As at 
October 31 
2012 

November 30, 2020  

 November 30, 2015 

$ 

300,000 

$ 

300,000

December 17, 2024  

 December 17, 2019  

March 21, 2022  

 March 22, 2017  

 June 27, 2018  

 June 28, 2013  

250,000 

75,000 

- 

-

75,000

50,000

$ 

625,000 

$ 

425,000

(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 12-year term with a fixed interest rate for the first seven years. Thereafter, the interest rate will be set quarterly at the Canadian dollar CDOR 90-day Bankers’ Acceptance rate plus  
  160 basis points. 
(3) These conventional debentures have a 15-year term with a fixed interest rate for the first 10 years. Thereafter, the interest rate will be reset quarterly at the Canadian dollar CDOR 90-day Bankers’ Acceptance rate plus  
  180 basis points. 
(4)  These conventional debentures 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 302 basis points. On June 28, 2013, these conventional debentures were redeemed by CWB.

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

83

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
17. CAPITAL STOCk

Authorized:

•	  An unlimited number of common shares without nominal or  

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

par value;

•	 33,964,324 class A shares without nominal or par value; and,

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.

Issued and fully paid:

Preferred Shares – Series 3

Outstanding at beginning of year 

Purchased for cancellation 

Outstanding at end of year 

Common Shares

Outstanding at beginning of year 

Issued under dividend reinvestment plan 

Issued on exercise or exchange of options 

Transferred from share-based payment reserve on

exercise or exchange of options 

Issued on settlement of contingent consideration 

Outstanding at end of year 

Share Capital 

2013 

2012

  Number of 
Shares 

Amount 

  Number of
Shares 

Amount

8,390,000 

$ 

209,750 

8,390,000 

$ 

209,750

(37,404) 

(935) 

- 

-

8,352,596 

208,815 

8,390,000 

209,750

  78,742,812 

490,218 

  75,461,981 

509,969 

366,814 

14,404 

1,674 

450,958 

573,005 

- 

- 

3,986 

- 

- 

2,256,868 

  79,619,595 

510,282 

  78,742,812 

408,282

12,252

1,853

4,432

63,399

490,218

$ 

719,097 

$ 

699,968

CWB is prohibited by the Bank Act from declaring any dividends on 
common shares when CWB 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 Bank 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), CWB 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 CWB’s Board of Directors and paid by CWB during the year: 

$0.70 per common share (2012 – $0.62) 

$1.81 per preferred share – Series 3 (2012 – $1.81) 

Total 

2013  

2012 

55,374  

$ 

47,749 

15,183 

70,557  

$ 

15,208

62,957

$ 

$ 

Subsequent to October 31, 2013, the Board of Directors of CWB 
declared a dividend of $0.19 per common share payable on January 9, 
2014 to shareholders of record on December 17, 2013 and a dividend 
of $0.453125 per Series 3 preferred share payable on January 31, 2014 

to shareholders of record on January 23, 2014. With respect to these 
dividend declarations, no liability was recorded in the balance sheet at 
October 31, 2013.

84 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
b) Preferred Shares

c) Dividend Reinvestment Plan

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, 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, 
CWB may redeem all or any part of the then outstanding Series 3  
preferred shares at CWB’s option without the consent of the holder,  
by the payment of an amount in cash for each such share so redeemed 
of $25.00 together with all declared and unpaid dividends to the date 
fixed for redemption.

Subject to the provisions of the Bank Act, the prior consent of OSFI 
and the provisions described in the prospectus for the public offering, 
on not more than 60 nor less than 30 days’ notice, CWB may redeem 
all or any part of the then outstanding Series 4 preferred shares at 
CWB’s option without the consent of the holder by the payment of 
an amount in cash for each such share so redeemed of: (i) $25.00 
together with all declared and unpaid dividends to the date fixed for 
redemption in the case of redemptions on April 30, 2019 and on  
April 30 every five years thereafter; or (ii) $25.50 together with all 
declared and unpaid dividends to the date fixed for redemption in the 
case of redemptions on any other date on or after April 30, 2014.

Under the dividend reinvestment plan (plan), CWB provides holders 
of CWB’s common shares and holders of any other class of shares 
deemed eligible by CWB’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 CWB’s Series 3 preferred 
shares are also eligible to participate in the plan. The plan is only  
open to shareholders residing in Canada.

At the option of CWB, the common shares may be issued from  
CWB’s treasury at an average market price based on the closing  
prices of a board lot of common shares on the Toronto Stock Exchange 
(TSX) for the five trading days immediately preceding the dividend 
payment date, with a discount of between 0% to 5% at CWB’s 
discretion. CWB also has the option to fund the plan through the 
open market at market prices. During the year, 509,969 (2012 – 
450,958) common shares were issued under the plan from CWB’s 
treasury at a 2% (2012 – 2%) discount.

d) Preferred Share Normal Course Issuer Bid (NCIB)

On February 27, 2013, CWB received approval from the TSX to 
institute a Normal Course Issuer Bid (NCIB) to purchase and cancel 
up to 826,120 of its Non-Cumulative 5-Year Rate Reset Preferred 
Shares Series 3, being 10% of the issued preferred shares. The NCIB 
commenced March 1, 2013 and will expire February 28, 2014. During 
2013, CWB purchased and cancelled 37,404 preferred shares for 
a total of $971, of which $935 reduced the outstanding balance of 
preferred shares and the $36 premium paid above book value was 
charged to retained earnings. 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

85

 
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.

CWB has authorized 5,542,959 common shares (2012 – 4,409,773) 
for issuance under the share incentive plan. Of the amount authorized, 
options exercisable into 4,217,908 shares (2012 – 3,441,100) are 

The details of, and changes in, the issued and outstanding options follow:

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 2013 to June 2018.

Options 

Balance at beginning of year 

Granted 

Exercised or exchanged 

Expired 

Forfeited 

Balance at end of year 

Exercisable at end of year 

2013 

2012

  Weighted 
Average 
Exercise 
Price 

  Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price

Number 
of Options 

Number 
  of Options 

3,441,100 

$ 

1,810,899 

(824,068) 

(162,075) 

(47,948) 

4,217,908 

501,579 

$ 

$ 

24.51 

28.30 

18.80 

31.18 

27.64 

26.96 

20.50 

3,542,072 

$ 

1,261,378 

(1,258,537) 

- 

(103,813) 

3,441,100 

878,890 

$ 

$ 

21.36

25.86

16.88

-

25.89

24.51

19.31

Further details relating to stock options outstanding and exercisable follow:

Range of Exercise Prices 

$8.58 to $11.76 

$16.89 to $22.09 

$23.43 to $26.40 

$28.09 to $30.76 

Total 

Options Outstanding 
  Weighted
Average 
Remaining 
  Contractual 

  Weighted 
Average 
Exercise 

Life (years) 

0.1 

0.9 

3.1 

3.8 

3.4 

$ 

$ 

Price 

11.66 

19.64 

25.55 

28.80 

26.96 

  Number of  

Options 

32,600 

285,904 

1,409,540 

2,489,864 

4,217,908 

Options Exercisable

  Weighted
Average
Exercise

Number 

of Options 

32,600 

$ 

285,904 

183,075 

- 

Price

11.66

19.64

23.43

-

501,579 

$ 

20.50

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 CWB 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 824,068 (2012 – 1,258,537) options exercised or exchanged, 
option holders exchanged the rights to 737,653 (2012 – 1,133,197) 
options and received 280,399 (2012 – 447,665) shares in return under 
the cashless settlement alternative.

Salary expense of $6,150 (2012 – $5,016) 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 1.4% (2012 – 1.1%), (ii) expected option life of 4.0  
(2012 – 4.0) years, (iii) expected volatility of 22% (2012 – 31%),  
and (iv) expected annual dividends of 2.5% (2012 – 2.4%).  
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 $3.93 (2012 – $4.92) per share.

During the year, $3,986 (2012 – $4,432) was transferred from  
the share-based payment reserve to share capital, representing the 
estimated fair value recognized for 824,068 (2012 – 1,258,537)  
options exercised during the year.

86 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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 CWB’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.

Number of RSUs 

Balance at beginning of year 

Granted 

Vested and paid out 

Forfeited 

Balance at end of year 

During the year, salary expense of $9,796 (2012 – $7,682) was 
recognized related to RSUs. As at October 31, 2013, the liability 
for the RSUs held under this plan was $12,111 (October 31, 2012 – 
$9,336). At the end of each period, the liability and salary expense  
are adjusted to reflect changes in the fair value of the RSUs.

2013  

594,455 

354,491 

(281,564) 

(16,591) 

650,791 

2012

535,769

337,273

(263,908)

(14,679)

594,455

c) Deferred Share Units

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  
$745 (2012 – $674) related to the DSUs. As at October 31, 2013,  
the liability for DSUs held under this plan was $2,782 (October 31,  
2012 – $2,328). 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 

Paid out 

Balance at end of year 

2013  

78,761 

9,059 

(4,470) 

83,350 

2012 

51,463

27,298

-

78,761

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

87

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
19. NON-CONTROLLING INTERESTS

Non-controlling interests are comprised of the following:

CWB Capital Trust 

Adroit Investment Management Ltd. 

McLean & Partners Wealth Management Ltd. 

Total 

As at  
  October 31  
2013  

As at 
  October 31 
2012 

 $ 

105,000  

$ 

105,000 

272 

790 

244

-

$ 

106,062 

$ 

105,244

 (Note 32)  

CWB Capital Trust

The significant terms and conditions of the WesTS are:

In 2006, CWB 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 CWB 
under SIC 12 as CWB retains voting control of CWB Capital Trust 
through the ownership of the Special Trust Securities. Accordingly, 
CWB consolidates CWB Capital Trust and the WesTS issued by CWB 
Capital Trust are disclosed under non-controlling interests (2013 and 
2012 – $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 CWB 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

•	  Earliest date exchangeable  
at the option of the holder

•	 Trust capital securities 
  outstanding

December 31, 2011 

Anytime 

105,000 

•	 Principal amount 

$105,000

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 CWB. 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 CWB, with OSFI approval, on 
or after December 31, 2011, but not at the option of the holders. 
This exchange right will be effected through the conversion by CWB 
Capital Trust of the corresponding amount of the deposit note of 
CWB. The WesTS exchanged for CWB’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 CWB, (ii) OSFI takes control of CWB, (iii) CWB has a Tier 1 
capital ratio of less than 5% or Total capital ratio of less than 8%, 
or (iv) OSFI has directed CWB to increase its capital or provide 
additional liquidity and CWB elects such automatic exchange or 
CWB fails to comply with such direction. Following the occurrence 
of an automatic exchange, CWB 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.  
CWB’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 CWB, with OSFI approval,  
on or after December 31, 2011, but not at the option of the holders.

88 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
6)  For regulatory capital purposes, effective January 1, 2013,  
(see Note 31) 90% (2012 – 100%) 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 the CDOR 180-day Bankers’ Acceptance rate  
plus 2.55%.

20. CONTINGENT LIABILITIES AND COMMITMENTS

a) Credit Instruments

In the normal course of business, CWB 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.

As at 
  October 31 
2013 

As at
  October 31
2012

$ 

354,083 

$ 

286,676

3,877,989 

3,506,408

$  4,232,072 

$  3,793,084

In the majority of instances, availability of undrawn commercial 
commitments is subject to the borrower meeting specified financial 
tests or other covenants regarding completion or satisfaction of certain 
conditions precedent. It is also usual practice to include the right to 
review and withhold funding in the event of a material adverse change 
in the financial condition of the borrower. From a liquidity perspective, 
undrawn credit authorizations will be funded over time, with draws 
in many cases extending over a period of months. In some instances, 
authorizations are never advanced or may be reduced because of 
changing requirements. Revolving credit authorizations are subject to 
repayment which, on a pooled basis, also decreases liquidity risk.

Credit instruments

Guarantees and standby letters of credit 

Commitments to extend credit 

Total 

Guarantees and standby letters of credit represent CWB’s obligation 
to make payments to third parties when a customer is unable to 
make required payments or meet other contractual obligations. These 
instruments carry the same credit risk, recourse and collateral security 
requirements as loans extended to customers and generally have a 
term that does not exceed one year. Losses, if any, resulting from these 
transactions are not expected to be material.

Commitments to extend credit to customers also arise in the  
normal course of business and include undrawn availability under  
lines of credit and commercial operating loans of $2,085,452 
(October 31, 2012 – $2,036,003) and authorized but unfunded loan 
commitments of $1,792,537 (October 31, 2012 – $1,470,405). 

b) Lease Commitments

CWB 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 five 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:

2014 

2015 

2016 

2017 

2018 

2019 and thereafter 

Total 

$ 

11,893

11,953

11,442

9,475

8,231

50,910

$ 

103,904

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

89

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
c) Guarantees

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.

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. 

Significant guarantees provided to third parties include guarantees  
and standby letters of credit as discussed above.

Premiums Earned and Deferred  
Policy Acquisition Costs

In the ordinary course of business, CWB enters into contractual 
arrangements under which CWB may agree to indemnify the  
other party. Under these agreements, CWB 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.

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, CWB and its subsidiaries  
are party to legal and regulatory proceedings. Based on current 
knowledge, CWB does not expect the outcome of any of these 
proceedings to have a material effect on the consolidated financial 
position, or results of operations.

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.

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).

90 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

Unpaid Claims and Adjustment Expenses

Reinsurance Ceded

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. 

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 
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: 

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.

•	  Significant financial difficulty of the reinsurer

•	  A breach of contract, such as default or delinquency  

in payments

•	  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.

2013 

2012

$ 

126,825 

$ 

123,204

1,787 

(87,008) 

(25,325) 

1,855

(83,167)

(24,539)

$ 

16,279 

$ 

17,353

Net earned premiums 

Commissions and processing fees 

Net claims and adjustment expenses 

Policy acquisition costs 

Insurance revenues, net 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

91

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
b) Unpaid Claims and Adjustment Expenses

Nature of Unpaid Claims
The establishment of the provision for unpaid claims and adjustment 
expenses and the related reinsurers’ share is based on known facts 
and interpretation of circumstances and is, therefore, a complex and 
dynamic process influenced by a large variety of factors. These factors 
include experience with similar cases and historical trends involving 
claim payment patterns, loss payments, pending levels of unpaid 
claims, product mix or concentration, claims severity, and claims 
frequency patterns.

Other factors include the continually evolving and changing regulatory 
and legal environment, actuarial studies, professional experience 
and expertise of the claims department personnel and independent 
adjusters retained to handle individual claims, quality of the data 
used for projection purposes, existing claims management practices, 
including claims handling and settlement practices, effect of 
inflationary trends on future claims settlement costs, investment rates 
of return, court decisions, economic conditions and public attitudes. 
In addition, time can be a critical part of the provision determination 
since, the longer the span between the incidence of a loss and the 

payment or settlement of the claim, the more variable the ultimate 
settlement amount can be. Accordingly, short-tailed claims, such as 
property claims, tend to be more reasonably predictable than  
long-tailed claims, such as liability claims.

Consequently, the establishment of the provision for unpaid claims 
and adjustment expenses relies on the judgment and opinions of 
a large number of individuals, on historical precedent and trends, 
on prevailing legal, economic, social and regulatory trends and on 
expectations as to future developments. The process of determining 
the provisions necessarily involves risks that the actual results will 
deviate, perhaps substantially, from the best estimates made.

Provision for Unpaid Claims and  
Adjustment Expenses
An annual evaluation of the adequacy of unpaid claims is  
completed at the end of each financial year. This evaluation includes a 
re-estimation of the liability for unpaid claims relating to each preceding 
financial year compared to the liability that was originally established. 

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 

2013 

2012

$ 

74,295 

$ 

64,543

86,087 

921 

(86,488) 

74,815 

6,760 

8,167 

84,762

(1,595)

(73,415)

74,295

5,237

6,686

Unpaid claims and adjustment expenses, net, end of year 

$ 

89,742 

$ 

86,218

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 2.50% (2012 – 2.78%).  

However, that rate was reduced by a 0.50% (2012 – 0.50%)  
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 $585 (2012 – $572) in unpaid claims and adjustment expenses and 
related reinsurance recoveries.

Policy balances, included in insurance-related other assets and other liabilities, analyzed by major lines of business are as follows:

Unpaid claims and adjustment expenses 

Reinsurers’ share of unpaid claims and adjustment expenses 

Unearned premiums 

2013 

2012

  Automobile 

Home 

  Automobile 

Home

$ 

68,532 

$ 

21,210 

$ 

65,964 

$ 

20,254

4,169 

50,500 

2,591 

24,981 

4,200 

48,598 

1,037

23,192

92 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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 (2012 – $300,000) is obtained  
to protect against certain catastrophic losses. Retention on catastrophic 
events is $5,000 (2012 – $5,000), on property per risk events is $1,000 
(2012 – $1,000) and on casualty events is $2,000 (2012 – $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 CWB to change a reinsurer during the term of the agreement 
if the reinsurer's rating falls below a specified level. 

At October 31, 2013, $6,760 (October 31, 2012 – $5,237) of unpaid 
claims and adjustment expenses were recorded as recoverable from 
reinsurers. Failure of a reinsurer to honour its obligation could result 
in losses. The financial condition of reinsurers is regularly evaluated to 
minimize the exposure to significant losses from reinsurer insolvency.

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

Premiums earned reduced by 

Claims incurred reduced by  

2013 

$ 

9,976 

$ 

3,732 

2012

9,352

1,912

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 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 $46,400 
in 2013 (2012 – $43,100) and represented 52% (2012 – 50%) of 
direct automobile premiums written.

Province 

Alberta 

Rate Filing 

Regulatory Authority

File and approve or 

Alberta Automobile Insurance Rate Board

File and use

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 CWB. As at October 31, 
2013 and October 31, 2012, CWB had no such regulatory asset  
or liability.

23. EMPLOYEE FUTURE BENEFITS

All employee future benefits related to CWB’s group retirement 
savings and employee share purchase plans are recognized in the 
periods during which services are rendered by employees. CWB’s 
contributions to the group retirement savings plan and employee  
share purchase plan totaled $11,685 (2012 – $10,932).

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

93

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
24. INCOME TAXES

CWB 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 on derivatives designated as cash flow hedges 

Total 

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.

2013 

2012

$ 

58,545 

$ 

60,904

5,507 

64,052 

(695)

60,209

(4,800) 

364 

(4,436) 

121

331

452

$ 

59,616 

$ 

60,661

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 

$ 

69,620 

25.4 %  $ 

65,090 

25.6 %

2013 

2012

Increase (decrease) arising from:

Tax-exempt income 

Stock-based compensation 

Contingent consideration fair value charge 

Other 

(6,072) 

1,547 

- 

(1,043) 

(2.2) 

0.6 

- 

(0.4) 

(6,744) 

1,271 

631 

(39) 

(2.6)

0.5

0.2

(0.1)

Provision for income taxes and effective tax rate 

 $ 

64,052 

23.4 %  $ 

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 

CWB has approximately $11,140 (2012 – $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.

94 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

2013 

2012

$ 

16,618 

$ 

14,816

9,357 

(3,659) 

(1,997) 

(995) 

8,681 

(3,962)

281

3,547 

$ 

$ 

$ 

19,324 

$ 

23,363

9,197 

$ 

1,163 

10,360 

$ 

8,164

733

8,897

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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 are used to purchase CWB’s common shares at the average 
market price during the period.

The calculation of earnings per common share follows:

Numerator

Net income available to common shareholders 

Denominator

2013 

2012

$ 

187,163 

$ 

172,197 

Weighted average of common shares outstanding – basic 

  79,147,496 

  76,840,532 

Dilutive instruments: 

Stock options (1) 

Weighted average number of common shares outstanding – diluted 

Earnings per common share 

Basic 

Diluted 

396,532 

619,460

  79,544,028 

  77,459,992

$ 

$ 

2.36 

2.35 

2.24

2.22

(1)  At October 31, 2013, the denominator excludes nil (October 31, 2012 – 527,056) employee stock options with an average adjusted exercise price of nil (2012 – $30.89) where the exercise price, adjusted for unrecognized 

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

26. ASSETS UNDER ADMINISTRATION  
AND MANAGEMENT

Assets under administration of $8,423,972 (October 31, 2012 – 
$7,171,826) and assets under management of $1,901,146  
(October 31, 2012 – $855,333) represent the fair value of assets  
held for personal, corporate and institutional clients as well as  

third-party leases and residential mortgages subject to service 
agreements. These assets are kept separate from CWB’s own assets. 
Assets under administration and management are not reflected in  
the consolidated balance sheets.

27. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

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

Preferred Rates and Terms

Key Management Personnel

CWB makes loans, primarily residential mortgages, to its officers  
and employees at various preferred rates and terms. The total amount 
outstanding for these types of loans is $106,085 (October 31, 2012 –  
$113,967). CWB offers deposits, primarily fixed term deposits, to its 
officers and employees and their immediate family at preferred rates. 
The total amount outstanding for these deposits is $256,136  
(October 31, 2012 – $219,647).

Compensation of key management personnel is as follows:

Salaries, benefits and directors' compensation 

Share-based payments (stock options, 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 $146  
as at October 31, 2013 (October 31, 2012 – $630). CWB’s policies  
preclude lending to CWB’s independent directors.

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

2013 

6,129 

$ 

3,644 

9,773 

$ 

2012

5,611

3,276

8,887

$ 

$ 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

95

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
28. INTEREST RATE SENSITIVITY

CWB 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) 

October 31, 2013 

Assets

Floating Rate  
 and Within 
  1 Month 

1 to 3 
  Months 

  3 Months 
to 1 Year 

Total 
  Within 
1 Year 

  1 Year to 
5 Years 

 More than 
5 Years 

Non- 
interest 
  Sensitive 

Total

Cash resources and securities 

$ 

371  $ 

710  $ 

619  $ 

1,700  $ 

591  $ 

178  $ 

111  $ 

2,580

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 

$ 

$ 

7,281 

- 

- 

7,652 

5,535 

3 

7 

- 

818 

6,363 

606 

- 

150 

1,466 

949 

7 

14 

- 

- 

1,980 

9,867 

5,638 

125 

(53)   

15,577

- 

384 

2,983 

- 

534 

12,101 

- 

284 

6,513 

4,434 

10,918 

4,624 

30 

64 

- 

- 

40 

85 

- 

818 

39 

486 

105 

- 

- 

- 

303 

- 

11 

250 

- 

- 

363 

1 

422 

363

819

19,339

(16)   

15,526

372 

- 

1,606 

1 

462

821 

1,711

819

970 

4,528 

11,861 

5,254 

261 

1,963 

19,339

1,289  $ 

496  $ 

(1,545)  $ 

240  $ 

1,259  $ 

42  $ 

(1,541)  $ 

1,289  $ 

1,785  $ 

240  $ 

240  $ 

1,499  $ 

1,541  $ 

-  $ 

Percentage of Total Assets 

6.7 % 

9.2 % 

1.2 % 

1.2 % 

7.8 % 

8.0 % 

-   

October 31, 2012 

Cumulative Gap 

Cumulative Gap as a 

$ 

1,560  $ 

1,586  $ 

773  $ 

773  $ 

1,211  $ 

1,437  $ 

(1,437)  $ 

Percentage of Total Assets 

9.1 % 

9.3 % 

4.5 % 

4.5 % 

7.1 % 

8.4 % 

-   

-

-

-

-

-

(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.

96 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

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

Weighted Average Effective Interest Rates
(%)

October 31, 2013 

Total Assets 

Total Liabilities 

Interest Rate Sensitive Gap 

October 31, 2012

Total Assets 

Total Liabilities  

Interest Rate Sensitive Gap 

   Floating Rate   
    and Within   

1 to 3 
1 Month    Months 

  3 Months   
  to 1 Year   

3.8 % 

1.3    

2.5 % 

3.8 % 

1.3   

2.5 % 

2.3 % 

 1.9    

0.4 % 

2.7 % 

2.1   

0.6 % 

4.0 % 

 2.0    

2.0 % 

3.7 % 

2.3   

1.4 % 

Total
Within 
1 Year 

3.6 % 

 1.6    

2.0 % 

3.6 % 

1.7   

1.9 % 

  1 Year to    More than   
5 Years   

5 Years   

4.6 % 

 2.4    

2.2 % 

5.0 % 

2.5   

2.5 % 

4.8 % 

 3.3    

1.5 % 

5.0 % 

-   

5.0 % 

Total 

4.0 %

 1.9 

2.1 %

4.1 %

2.0 

2.1 %

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 3.3% or $14,545 (October 31, 
2012 – 3.8% or $15,086) and decrease other comprehensive income 
$14,418 (October 31, 2012 – $12,594) 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 
5.3% or $23,853 (October 31, 2012 – 5.4% or $21,534) and increase 
other comprehensive income $14,418 (October 31, 2012 – $12,594), 
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 CWB’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 CWB’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 
CWB’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 2013 Annual Report 

97

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
Total Financial Liabilities 

  $ 

36  $ 16,729,175  $ 

-  $ 16,729,211  $ 16,756,131  $ 

26,920

(Note 3) 

(Note 4) 

October 31, 2013 

Financial Assets 

Cash resources 

Securities 

Loans (1) 

Other assets (2) 

Derivative related 

Total Financial Assets 

Financial Liabilities

Deposits (1) 

Other liabilities (3) 

Debt 

Derivative related 

(Note 3) 

(Note 4) 

October 31, 2012 

Financial Assets

Cash resources 

Securities 

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 

Loans and 
Receivables, and 

  Derivatives 

  Non-trading  Available- 
for-sale 

Liabilities 

Total 
Carrying 
Amount 

Fair Value
 Over (Under)
Carrying
Amount

Fair Value 

  $ 

-  $ 

-  $  347,995  $  347,995  $  347,995  $ 

- 

  2,232,322 

  2,232,322 

  2,232,322 

- 

- 

- 

 15,629,443 

120,845 

4,509 

- 

- 

- 

- 

 15,629,443 

 15,614,937 

(14,506)

120,845 

120,845 

4,509 

4,509 

-

-

  $ 

4,509  $ 15,750,288  $  2,580,317  $ 18,335,114  $ 18,320,608  $ 

(14,506)

  $ 

-  $ 15,541,831  $ 

-  $ 15,541,831  $ 15,553,762  $ 

11,931

- 

- 

36 

366,694 

820,650 

- 

- 

- 

- 

366,694 

820,650 

36 

366,694 

835,639 

36 

-

14,989

-

Loans and 
Receivables, and 
  Non-trading 
Liabilities 

Derivatives 

Available- 
for-sale 

Total 
Carrying 
Amount 

Fair Value
  Over (Under)
Carrying
Amount

Fair Value 

  $ 

-  $ 

-  $  236,983  $  236,983  $  236,983  $ 

- 

  2,336,100 

  2,336,100 

  2,336,100 

- 

- 

- 

 14,016,609 

128,614 

1,951 

- 

- 

- 

- 

 14,016,609 

 14,051,651 

35,042

128,614 

128,614 

1,951 

1,951 

-

-

  $ 

1,951  $ 14,145,223  $  2,573,083  $ 16,720,257  $ 16,755,299  $ 

35,042

  $ 

-  $ 14,160,114  $ 

-  $ 14,160,114  $ 14,189,398  $ 

29,284

- 

- 

- 

10 

366,557 

70,089 

634,273 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

366,557 

366,557 

70,089 

70,089 

-

-

634,273 

652,929 

18,656 

10 

10 

-

-

-

-

-

Total Financial Liabilities 

  $ 

10  $ 15,231,033  $ 

-  $ 15,231,043  $ 15,278,983  $ 

47,940

(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.

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

have occurred since the loans were originated and are net of the 
allowance for credit losses. For floating rate loans, fair value is 
assumed to be equal to book value as the interest rates on these 
loans automatically reprice to market. For all other loans, fair value 
is estimated by discounting the expected future cash flows of these 
loans at current market rates for loans with similar terms and risks.

•	  Other assets and other liabilities, with the exception of derivative 

financial instruments 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.

•	  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.

98 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
•	  deposits with no stated maturity are assumed to be equal to their 
carrying values. The estimated fair values of fixed rate deposits are 
determined by discounting the contractual cash flows at current 
market rates for deposits of similar terms; and

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

market prices for debt with similar terms and risks.

Fair values are based on management’s best estimates based on market 
conditions and pricing policies at a certain point in time. The estimates 
are subjective and involve particular assumptions and matters of 
judgment and, as such, may not be reflective of future fair values.

Fair Value Hierarchy

CWB 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. 

As at October 31, 2013 

Financial Assets

Cash resources 

Securities 

Derivative related 

Total Financial Assets 

Financial Liabilities

Other liability 

Derivative related 

Total Financial Liabilities 

As at October 31, 2012 

Financial Assets 

Cash resources 

Securities 

Derivative related 

Total Financial Assets 

Financial Liabilities

Derivative related 

Fair Value 

Level 1 

Level 2 

Level 3

Valuation Technique

$ 

347,995 

$ 

300,995 

$ 

47,000 

$ 

2,232,332 

2,232,332 

4,509 

- 

- 

4,509 

$  2,584,836 

$  2,533,327 

$ 

51,509 

$ 

-

- 

-

-

$ 

$ 

1,679 

$ 

36 

1,715 

$ 

- 

- 

- 

$ 

$ 

- 

$ 

1,679

36 

36 

-

$ 

1,679

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 

$ 

-

-

-

- 

-

b) Level 3 Financial Instruments

The Level 3 financial instrument at October 31, 2013 was comprised 
of the contingent consideration related to a 2013 subsidiary 

acquisition (see Note 32). The following table shows a reconciliation of 
the fair value measurements related to the Level 3 valued instrument:

Balance at beginning of year 

Business acquisition 

Change in fair value charged to other income 

Settlement 

Balance at end of year 

2013 

2012

$ 

- 

$ 

61,011

(Note 32) 

1,679 

- 

- 

-

2,489

(63,500)

$ 

1,679 

$ 

-

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

99

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
30. RISk MANAGEMENT

Basel III Capital Adequacy Accord

As part of CWB’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 the MD&A. The relevant MD&A sections are identified  
by shading, 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.

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.

CWB 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 CWB 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.

Significant capital transactions during fiscal 2013 include the 
December 2012 issue of $250,000 of conventional subordinated 
debentures, which qualify as total capital, subject to a Basel III 
transitional allowance. In June 2013, CWB redeemed $50,000 of 
subordinated debentures with a fixed interest rate of 5.95%. 

Regulatory capital and capital ratios are calculated in accordance  
with the requirements of OSFI and, effective January 1, 2013,  
capital is managed and reported in accordance with the requirements 
of the Basel III Capital Adequacy Accord (Basel III). 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 CWB’s risk of loss is nil, while uninsured 
commercial loans are assigned a risk weighting of 100% to reflect  
the higher level of risk associated with this type of asset. The ratio  
of regulatory capital to risk-weighted assets is calculated and 
compared to OSFI’s standards for Canadian financial institutions. 
Off-balance sheet assets, such as the notional amount of derivatives 
and some credit commitments, are included in the calculation of 
risk-weighted assets and both the credit risk equivalent and the 
risk-weighted calculations are prescribed by OSFI. As CDI is subject to 
separate OSFI capital requirements specific to insurance companies, 
CWB’s investment in CDI is consolidated and risk-weighted using the 
equity accounting method and CDI’s underlying assets are excluded 
from the calculation of risk-weighted assets.

The required minimum regulatory capital ratios, including a 250  
basis point capital conservation buffer, are 7.0% common equity  
Tier 1 (CET1), effective in 2013, and 8.5% Tier 1 and 10.5% total 
capital effective in 2014. 

The Basel III rules provide for transitional adjustments with  
certain aspects of the new rules phased in between 2013  
and 2019. The only available transition allowance in the Basel III 
capital standards permitted by OSFI for Canadian banks relates to  
the multi-year phase out of non-qualifying capital instruments.  
The 2013 inclusion of non-qualifying capital instruments in non-
common Tier 1 (preferred shares and WesTS) and total capital 
(subordinated debt) under Basel III are capped at $283,275 and 
$607,500, respectively, based on 90% of the January 1, 2013 
outstanding balances. The June redemption of subordinated 
debentures had no impact on total capital as the balance of 
subordinated debentures after the redemption still exceeded  
the $607,500 cap.

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

Capital Structure and Regulatory Ratios

Regulatory Capital, net of deductions

Common equity Tier 1 

Tier 1 

Total 

Capital ratios

Common equity Tier 1 

Tier 1 

Total 

Asset to capital multiple 

2013 

2012 (1)

$  1,285,692 

n/a

1,560,801 

$  1,460,776

2,243,654 

1,903,790

8.0 % 

9.7   

13.9   

8.1 x 

n/a

10.6 %

13.8 

8.8 x

(1) Capital ratios prior to fiscal 2013 have been calculated using the previous capital framework, Basel II. Capital ratios calculated under Basel III are not directly comparable to the equivalent Basel II measures.

100 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
32. BUSINESS ACQUISITION

Effective May 17, 2013, CWB acquired 54.6% of the outstanding 
common shares of McLean & Partners Wealth Management Ltd. 
(McLean & Partners), a Calgary, Alberta-based wealth management 
firm, in exchange for $10,098 of cash and contingent consideration 
for a total acquisition cost of $11,777. Additional contingent 

consideration, to a maximum of $1,639, will be paid in cash if 
earnings targets are achieved over a two-year period. The results 
of operations for McLean & Partners have been included in CWB’s 
consolidated financial statements since the effective acquisition date. 

The following table summarizes the fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed:

Fair value of consideration transferred 

Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed

Intangible assets 

Other items, net 

Deferred income tax liability 

Non-controlling interest 

Goodwill 

Intangible assets include customer relationships, non-competition 
agreements and a trade name. The trade name, which has an 
estimated value of $518, is not subject to amortization. The total 
amount of goodwill and intangible assets is not deductible for income 
tax purposes.

$ 

11,777 

9,839

696

(2,330)

(316)

3,888

$ 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

101

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
33. SUBSIDIARIES
Canadian Western Bank Subsidiaries (1)
(annexed in accordance with subsection 308 (3) of the Bank Act) 
October 31, 2013

National Leasing Group Inc. 

Canadian Direct Insurance Incorporated 

Canadian Western Trust Company 

McLean & Partners Wealth Management Ltd. 

Valiant Trust Company 

Adroit Investment Management Ltd. 

Canadian Western Bank Capital Trust 

Canadian Western Bank Leasing Inc. 

Canadian Western Financial Ltd. 

  Address of 
  Head office 

1525 Buffalo Place 
Winnipeg, Manitoba

Suite 600, 750 Cambie Street 
Vancouver, British Columbia

Suite 3000, 10303 Jasper Avenue 
Edmonton, Alberta

801 10th Avenue S.W. 
Calgary, Alberta

Suite 310, 606 4th Street S.W. 
Calgary, Alberta

Suite 1250, 10303 Jasper Avenue 
Edmonton, Alberta

Suite 3000, 10303 Jasper Avenue 
Edmonton, Alberta

Suite 3000, 10303 Jasper Avenue 
Edmonton, Alberta

Suite 3000, 10303 Jasper Avenue 
Edmonton, Alberta

Carrying Value of

Voting Shares Owned
by the Bank (2)

$ 

134,458

 25,766

19,136

11,777

8,080 

6,927

1,000

1

1

(1) CWB owns 100% of the voting shares of each entity, with the exception of Adroit Investment Management Ltd. (72.75% ownership) and McLean & Partners Wealth Management Ltd. (54.6% ownership). 
(2) The carrying value of voting shares is stated at CWB’s equity in the subsidiaries. 

34. COMPARATIVE FIGURES

Certain comparative figures have been reclassified in the balance  
sheets to conform to the current period’s presentation.

102 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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, change 
in share registration or address, lost 
share certificates, tax forms or estate 
transfers, please write or call the 
Transfer Agent and Registrar, or  
email inquiries@valianttrust.com.

Duplicated 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. 

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 at cwb.com.

This 2013 Annual Report, along with 
our Annual Information Form, Notice 
of Annual Meeting of Shareholders 
and Proxy Circular, is available on our 
website. For additional printed copies 
of these reports, please contact the 
Investor Relations Department.

Filings are available on the Canadian 
Securities Administrator’s website at 
www.sedar.com

2014 Annual and  
Special Meeting
The Annual and Special Meeting 
of the common shareholders of 
Canadian Western Bank will be held in 
Edmonton, Alberta, on March 6, 2014 
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, 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 
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 

SENIOR OFFICERS 
Group Executive Officers
Chris H. Fowler 
President and  
Chief Executive Officer

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

Randy W. Garvey, FCMA 
Executive Vice President

Gregory J. Sprung 
Executive Vice President, Banking

Brian J. Young 
Executive Vice President

Darrell Jones, FCMA 
Senior Vice President and 
Chief Information Officer

Uve Knaak 
Senior Vice President 
Culture, Leadership and  
Succession Management

Jack C. Wright 
Senior Vice President

Commercial and  
Retail Banking
Glen Eastwood 
Senior Vice President and  
Regional General Manager

Michael N. Halliwell 
Senior Vice President and 
Regional General Manager 

Mario Furlan 
Senior Vice President and 
Regional General Manager

National Leasing 
Nick R. Logan 
Chief Executive Officer

Tom Pundyk 
President 

Canadian Western Trust
Matt Colpitts 
Vice President and  
General Manager

Valiant Trust
Jay Campbell 
General Manager

Senior Corporate Officers 
William J. Addington, FCMA, ICD.D 
Executive Director, Corporate & 
Business Development

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

Kelly Blackett 
Senior Vice President 
Human Resources

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

Adroit Investment 
Management
Maria Holowinsky 
President and Chief  
Investment Officer

McLean & Partners  
Wealth Management 
Brent McLean 
Chief Executive Officer

Kevin Dehod 
President

Ombudsman
R. Graham Gilbert

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report 

103

 
Locations

Canadian Western Bank 
Regional Offices
British Columbia 
2200, 666 Burrard Street 
Vancouver 
(604) 669-0081 
Mario Furlan

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 
6127 Barlow Trail S.E. 
Calgary 
(403) 267-9882 
Michael Docherty

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 
Dustin Jones

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

Westjet Banking  
Centre 
22 Aerial Place N.W. 
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 S 
(403) 328-9199 
Daryn Wenaas

Lloydminster 
Suite C, 6209 - 44 Street 
(780) 874-9555 
Ethan Walker

Medicine Hat 
102, 1111 kingsway  
Avenue S.E. 
(403) 527-7321

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 
Pat Rennison

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 
Dave McGregor

Courtenay 
200, 470 Puntledge Road 
(250) 334-8888 
Jean-Marc Jaquier

Cranbrook 
202, 828 Baker Street 
(250) 426-1140 
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

Prince George  
300 Victoria Street 
(250) 612-0123 
David Duck

Richmond 
4991 No. 3 Road 
(604) 238-2800 
Michael Yeung

104 

CWB Group 2013 Annual Report

Optimum Mortgage
Edmonton 
3000, 10303 Jasper Avenue 
(780) 423-9748 
(Representation across 
Western Canada and in 
Ontario) 
(866) 441-3775

Canadian Direct 
Insurance 
Edmonton 
500, 10115 - 100A Street 
(780) 413-5933 
(888) 225-5234

Vancouver 
600, 750 Cambie Street 
(604) 699-3678 
(888) 225-5234

Valiant Trust 
Calgary 
310, 606 - 4 Street S.W. 
(403) 233-2801 
(866) 313-1872

Edmonton 
3000, 10303 Jasper Avenue 
(780) 441-2267

Toronto 
710, 130 king Street W 
(416) 360-1481

Vancouver 
600, 750 Cambie Street  
(604) 699-4880

Adroit Investment 
Management 
Edmonton 
1250, 10303 Jasper Avenue 
(780) 429-3500

McLean & Partners 
Wealth Management
Calgary 
801-10 Avenue S.W. 
(403) 234-0005

National Leasing 
Winnipeg 
1525 Buffalo Place 
(204) 954-9000 
(Representation across all 
provinces and territories in 
Canada) 
(800) 665-1326

Canadian Western 
Financial 
Edmonton 
3000, 10303 Jasper Avenue 
(780) 423-8888

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 Street 
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 
5, 259 Hamilton Road 
(306) 782-1002 
kelly Price

Manitoba
Winnipeg 
Winnipeg 
230 Portage Avenue 
(204) 956-4669 
Robert Bean

Winnipeg Kenaston 
125 Nature Park Way 
(204) 452-0939 
Christopher Voogt

Canadian Direct Financial 
Edmonton 
3000, 10303 Jasper Avenue 
(780) 441-2249  
www.canadiandirectfinancial.com

Canadian Western Trust 
Calgary 
310, 606 - 4 Street S.W. 
(403) 717-3145

Edmonton 
3000, 10303 Jasper Avenue 
(780) 969-8332

Toronto  
710, 130 king Street W 
(416) 360-1301

Vancouver 
600, 750 Cambie Street 
(604) 685-2081 
(800) 663-1124

cwb.com