Quarterlytics / Financial Services / Asset Management / Canadian Western Bank / FY2016 Annual Report

Canadian Western Bank
Annual Report 2016

CWB · TSX Financial Services
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Industry Asset Management
Employees 1001-5000
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FY2016 Annual Report · Canadian Western Bank
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Four Year Financial Summary 

($ thousands, except per share amounts)

2016

2015

2014

2013

Results from Continuing Operations(1)
Net interest income (teb)(2)
Less teb adjustment
Net interest income per financial statements
Other income 
Pre-tax, pre-provision income (teb)
Total revenues (teb)
Total revenues
Common shareholders' net income
Earnings per share

Basic
Diluted
Adjusted cash(3)

Return on common shareholders' equity(4)
Adjusted return on common shareholders' equity(5)
Return on average total assets(6)
Efficiency ratio (teb)(7)
Efficiency ratio(7)
Net interest margin (teb)(8)
Net interest margin(8)
Number of full-time equivalent staff
Results from Combined Operations(1)
Common shareholders' net income
Earnings per share

Basic
Diluted
Adjusted cash(3)

Return on common shareholders' equity(4)
Adjusted return on common shareholders' equity(5)
Return on average total assets(6)
Results from Discontinued Operations(1)
Common shareholders' net income
Earnings per share

Basic
Diluted
Adjusted cash(3)
Per Common Share
Average common shares outstanding (thousands)
Cash dividends
Book value
Market price

High
Low
Close

 $  

588,464 
3,240 
585,224 
72,672 
353,843 
661,136 
657,896 
177,761 

2.13 
2.13 
2.26 

 $  

 $  

549,052 
5,580 
543,472 
67,948 
328,059 
617,000 
611,420 
208,064 

 $  

506,308 
6,743 
499,565 
84,305 
325,720 
590,343 
583,600 
205,288 

463,938 
7,174 
456,764 
70,051 
294,647 
533,989 
526,815 
177,467 

2.59 
2.59 
2.63 
12.4% 
12.6 
0.97 
46.8 
47.3 
2.56 
2.53 
1,928 

2.57 
2.54 
2.59 
13.9% 
14.2 
1.05 
44.8 
45.4 
2.59 
2.56 
1,788 

2.24 
2.23 
2.27 
13.5% 
13.7 
1.02 
44.8 
45.4 
2.66 
2.62 
1,715 

3.97 
3.97 
4.01 
19.1% 
19.3 
1.48 

2.73 
2.70 
2.76 
14.8% 
15.1 
 1.10 

2.36 
2.35 
2.39 
14.2% 
14.4 
1.06 

 $  

111,637 

 $  

13,261 

 $  

9,696 

1.38 
1.38 
1.38 

80,442 
0.86 
22.18 

38.16 
21.04 
25.13 

 $  

0.16 
0.16 
0.17 

80,034 
0.78 
19.52 

43.30 
32.61 
37.75 

 $  

0.12 
0.12 
0.12 

79,147 
0.70 
17.45 

33.75 
27.04 
33.44 

9.3%     
9.9 
0.73 
 46.5 
 46.7 
2.43 
2.41 
1,966 

2.13 
2.13 
2.26 

9.3% 
9.9 
0.73 

 - 

 - 
 - 
 - 

 $  

83,411 
0.92 
23.58 

29.30 
19.26 
25.45 

 $  

177,761 

 $  

319,701 

 $  

218,549 

 $  

187,163 

 $  

 $  

Balance Sheet and Off-Balance Sheet Summary
Assets
Cash resources, securities and repurchase agreements
Loans
Deposits
Debt
Shareholders' equity
Assets under administration
Assets under management
Capital Adequacy
Common equity Tier 1 ratio
Tier 1 ratio
Total ratio
Other Information
Provision for credit losses as a percentage of average loans
Net impaired loans as a percentage of total loans
Number of CWB branches

 $   25,222,549 
2,791,968 
     21,961,348 
     21,194,553 
1,268,198 
2,342,040 
     10,689,398 
1,924,181 

 $   22,838,527 
2,994,534 
     19,475,383 
     19,365,407 
1,187,623 
1,910,907 
9,293,683 
1,882,736 

 $   20,635,046 
2,697,185 
     17,536,489 
     17,373,014 
1,036,990 
1,693,527 
     10,101,698 
1,795,975 

 $   18,527,742 
2,580,327 
     15,581,842 
     15,631,040 
820,650 
1,598,507 
8,423,972 
1,901,146 

9.2% 

11.0 
13.1 

0.38% 
- 
42 

8.5% 
9.7 
12.7 

0.17% 
(0.11)
41 

8.0% 
9.3 
12.8 

0.15% 
(0.19)
41 

8.0% 
9.7 
13.9 

0.19% 
(0.14)
41 

(1) On May 1, 2015, CWB sold its property and casualty insurance subsidiary and CWB’s stock transfer business 
as described in Note 3 of the annual consolidated financial statements. Revenues, expenses and gains on 
sale associated with the businesses sold are defined and classified on the consolidated statements of income 
for prior periods as “Discontinued Operations”. The remaining operations are defined as “Continuing 
Operations”, and the total Continuing Operations and Discontinued Operations are defined as “Combined 
Operations”. Total revenues from Combined Operations include $107.8 million of divestiture gains in 2015. 
Return on shareholders’ equity reflects equity from Combined Operations. All other measures reflect either 
Continuing or Combined Operations as indicated. 

(2) 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 taxable equiv-
alent basis does not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and, therefore, may not be comparable 
to similar measures presented by other banks. 

(3) Adjusted cash earnings per common share is calculated as diluted earnings per common share excluding the 
acquisition-related amortization of intangible assets and contingent consideration fair value changes, net of 
tax. Excluded items are not considered to be indicative of ongoing business performance. 

(4) Return on common shareholders’ equity is calculated as common shareholders’ net income divided by 

average common shareholders’ equity.

(5) Adjusted return on common shareholders’ equity is calculated as common shareholders’ net income 

excluding the acquisition-related amortization of intangible assets and contingent consideration fair value 
changes, net of tax, divided by average common shareholders’ equity. 

(6) Return on assets is calculated as common shareholders’ net income divided by average total assets.
(7) Efficiency ratio is calculated as non-interest expenses, excluding the pre-tax amortization of acquisition
related intangible assets, divided by total revenues, including the net gain related to the sales of the 
property and casualty insurance subsidiary and CWB’s stock transfer business.

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

 CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report 

i

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
 
  
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
 
 
    
    
    
 
 
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
 
 
    
 
 
    
 
 
    
    
    
 
 
    
    
    
 
 
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
Performance Dashboard(1)

Shareholders value CWB’s strong track record of high-quality growth, 
conservative approach to risk management and consistent profitability. We 
define success as a well-funded, well-capitalized mid-market commercial 
banking franchise which delivers strong core operating performance and 
consistent growth of earnings and profitability from current levels.

Employees

~2,000

2006 – ~1,100

CWB branches

Assets under administration

Assets under management

42

2006 – 33

$10.7B

2006 – $3.3B

$1.9B

2006 – nil

Total assets

$25.2B

2006 – $7.3B

13% 10yr CAGR(5)

Total loans 

(excluding the allowance for credit losses)

$22.1B

2006 – $5.8B

14% 10yr CAGR(5)

Total deposits

$21.2B

2006 – $6.3B

13% 10yr CAGR(5)

Diversifying loans by province (%)

Diversifying loans by lending sector (%)

34%

10yr CAGR(6)  
of loans 
outside of  
Western 
Canada

Alberta

British Columbia

Ontario and other

Saskatchewan

Manitoba

14%

10yr CAGR(6) 
of general 
commercial 
loans

2006

2016

2006

2016

54

35

4

4

3

36

36

19

6

3

General commercial loans

Real estate project loans

Commercial mortgages

Personal loans and mortgages

Equipment financing and leasing

Corporate loans

Oil and gas production loans

22

17

22

12

20

4

3

22

19

18

18

17

5

1

Growth and diversification of funding sources - composition of deposits (%)

55% Total branch-raised deposits

36%

19%

36%

9%

 Branch demand and notice   

 Branch term    

 Broker term    

 Capital markets term

Credit ratings (DBRS) - stable trend (confirmed November 17, 2016)                

A (low)
Long-term debt / 
senior deposits

R-1 (low)
Short-term debt

BBB (high)
Subordinated 
debentures

Pfd-3
Preferred shares

ii 

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

  
Employees

~2,000

2006 – ~1,100

CWB branches

Assets under administration

Assets under management

42

2006 – 33

$10.7B

2006 – $3.3B

$1.9B

2006 – nil

Total assets

$25.2B

2006 – $7.3B

13% 10yr CAGR(5)

Total loans 

(excluding the allowance for credit losses)

$22.1B

2006 – $5.8B

14% 10yr CAGR(5)

Total deposits

$21.2B

2006 – $6.3B

13% 10yr CAGR(5)

Strong credit quality

0.49%

5yr Average gross impaired  
loans as a % of average loans

0.17%

5yr Average write-offs as  
a % of average loans

2.0

1.0

0.0

Q4-07

Q4-08

Q4-09

Q4-10

Q4-11

Q4-12

Q4-13

Q4-14

Q4-15

Q4-16

  $ Gross impaired loans as a % of average loans     

  $ Write-offs as a % of average loans

Low provision for credit losses (5yr avg. as a % of avg. loans)

Strong efficiency ratio(2)

0.22%

 46.5%     56.1%

0.39

0.40

0.41

0.32

0.22

0.23

0.29

0.25

57.0

43.8

57.1

44.8

57.9

44.8

58.2

46.8

56.1

46.5

CWB

CDN Bank 
Average(3)

BMO

CIBC

National

RBC

Scotia

TD

2012(5)

2013

2014

2015

2016

  CWB     

  CDN Bank Average(3)

Low leverage (total assets-to-equity)

 10.8%

Canadian Western Bank

 17.8%

Canadian Bank Average(3)

30.0

15.0

0.0

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011(4)

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

Strong regulatory capital ratios (CWB | regulatory minimum)

9.2%  |  7.0%
Common equity  
Tier 1 capital (CET1)

11.0%  |  8.5%
Tier 1 capital

13.1%  |  10.5%
Total capital

8.6%  |  3.0%
Basel III  
leverage ratio

 CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report 

iii

Employees

~2,000

2006 – ~1,100

CWB branches

Assets under administration

Assets under management

42

2006 – 33

$10.7B

2006 – $3.3B

$1.9B

2006 – nil

Total assets

$25.2B

2006 – $7.3B

13% 10yr CAGR(5)

Total loans 
(excluding the allowance for credit losses)

$22.1B

2006 – $5.8B

14% 10yr CAGR(5)

Total deposits

$21.2B

2006 – $6.3B

13% 10yr CAGR(5)

Consistent growth of total loans ($ millions)

Consistent growth of total deposits ($ millions)

$22,065

$21,195

14,035

15,653

17,606

19,570

22,065

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

15,631

17,373

19,365

21,195

5,010

2013

5,762

2014

6,719

2015

7,694

2016

14,250

4,459

2012

(excluding the allowance for credit losses)

  deposits     

  notice and demand deposits

Common shareholders’ net income ($ millions)

Provision for credit losses (as a % of average loans)

$178 2016 growth constrained by energy-related 

provisions and net interest margin pressure.

0.38%

2016 increase entirely attributed to 
energy-related provisions.

172

177

205

208

178

0.38

0.19

0.19

0.15

0.17

2012(5)

2013

2014

2015

2016

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

Consistent growth of book value / share

Consistent growth of dividends paid / common share

$23.58 | 11% 10yr CAGR(6)

(4)

$0.92 | 14% 10yr CAGR(6)

14.08

15.94

8.39

10.70

23.58

19.52

2006

2008

2010

2012

2014

2016

0.92

0.78

0.42

0.44

0.62

0.25

2006

2008

2010

2012

2014

2016

(1) Financial performance from Continuing Operations. Financial results presented include certain metrics which do not 

(3) “CDN Bank Average” is calculated based on information contained in the publicly available company reports of 

have standardized meanings prescribed by IFRS and, therefore, may not be comparable to similar measures presented 
by other financial institutions.       

(2) Efficiency ratio is calculated as non-interest expenses, excluding the pre-tax amortization of acquisition

related intangible assets, divided by total revenues, including the net gain related to the sales of the property and 
casualty insurance subsidiary and CWB’s stock transfer business.  

Canada’s six largest banks (TSX trading symbols: BMO, CM, NA, RY, BNS, TD).

(4) As of 2011, financial results are reported under IFRS, as opposed to GAAP, and are not directly comparable.
(5) Based on Combined Operations
(6) CAGR - compound annual growth rate

 CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report 

iv

 
About CWB Financial Group

CWB Financial Group (TSX:CWB) represents the only Schedule 1 bank 
in Canada specializing in mid-market commercial banking. Clients 
recognize CWB for our in-depth knowledge of targeted segments within 
Canada’s commercial banking industry and our unique brand of personal 
service. Shareholders value CWB’s strong track record of high-quality, 
industry-leading growth, conservative approach to risk management and 
consistent profitability. 

CWB has grown to become the seventh largest financial services 
organization in Canada, in terms of market capitalization, by taking a 
relationship-based approach to business and personal banking. We offer 
highly responsive specialized financing solutions through CWB Equipment 
Financing, National Leasing, CWB Maxium Financial, CWB Franchise 
Finance and CWB Optimum Mortgage, trust services through Canadian 
Western Trust and comprehensive wealth advisory services through CWB 
Wealth Management.

British Columbia (18)

Vancouver (4)

Abbotsford

Coquitlam

Courtenay

Cranbrook

Kamloops

Kelowna (2)

Langley

Nanaimo

Prince George

Richmond

Surrey (2)

Victoria

Alberta (18)

Edmonton (5)

Calgary (6)

Grande Prairie

Leduc

Lethbridge

Medicine Hat

Red Deer

Sherwood Park

St. Albert

(8)

(6)

Saskatchewan (5)

Regina

Saskatoon (2)

Yorkton

Lloydminster

Manitoba (2)

Winnipeg (2)

(10)

(2)

(2)

Ontario (10)

Barrie

Greater Toronto Area (2)

London

Orillia

Oshawa

Ottawa

Mississauga

Richmond Hill

Woodbridge

(2)

2

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual ReportCompany / Office

Regional Offices

CWB Branch Network

Province(s)

BC / AB / ON

Western Canada

Canadian Direct Financial (CDF)

ALL (except QC)

Canadian Western Trust

ALL

CWB Optimum Mortgage

ALL (except QC)

CWB Wealth Management and CWF

Western Canada

Adroit Investment Management

Western Canada, ON, QC

McLean & Partners Wealth Management

Western Canada, ON

National Leasing Group

CWB Maxium Financial

CWB Franchise Finance

ALL

ALL (primarily ON)

ALL (primarily outside of Western Canada)

Number of companies / divisions

Total provinces

9

10

Maritimes (8)

St. John’s, NL

Charlottetown, PEI

Halifax, NS (3)

Fredericton, NB

Moncton, NB

Saint John, NB

(2)

(3)

Quebec (3)

Montreal

Quebec City (2) 

(8)

Table of Contents

Four Year Financial Summary  ............................................... i

Performance Dashboard ...................................................... ii

About CWB Financial Group ................................................ 2

Strategic Priorities and Highlights ......................................... 5

Lines of Business .................................................................. 6

Awards and Accolades ......................................................... 7

Message from Chris Fowler, President and CEO  .................. 8

Message from Robert Phillips, Chair of the Board .............. 10

Board of Directors and Corporate Governance ................... 12

Executive Committee ......................................................... 13

Management’s Discussion and Analysis  ............................. 14

Consolidated Financial Statements  .................................... 71

Shareholder Information  ................................................. 111

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

3

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual ReportOur Vision 
To be seen as crucial to 
our clients’ futures.

4

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual ReportCWB’s Balanced 
Growth Strategy 

Strategic Priorities 
and Highlights 

Operating from our headquarters in Edmonton, Alberta, CWB is the 
trusted financial partner to a growing base of business and personal 
clients. We deliver responsive service and sensible solutions, and we 
remain committed to our fundamental identity as a conservative, 
growth-oriented organization. We maintain a supportive environment 
for employees within a results-oriented culture. We aim to provide strong 
long-term returns for shareholders and give back in the communities 
where we live and work.

Further geographic and business sector diversification within targeted 
segments of Canada’s commercial banking industry is the foundation 
of CWB’s balanced growth strategy. Ongoing strong growth of both 
loans and funding sources remain important strategic objectives, along 
with specific goals related to risk and capital management, and business 
transformation through targeted use of technology throughout the 
organization. 

Our teams focus on key activities which contribute the greatest impact 
toward the achievement of our vision to be seen as crucial to our clients’ 
future. We track both financial and non-financial measures within four 
interdependent realms of activity (People, Support, Clients, Financial) to 
monitor progress toward achievement of our strategic objectives:

CWB
relationships

i

n
v
e
s
t

m
e
n
t

p
r
o
fi
t
a
b
e

l

g
r
o
w
t
h

People (P)
Invest in our people;
Live our values

Clients (C)
Be the trusted
financial partner

Strategic Priorities

•  Strong, balanced growth of CWB’s targeted, mid-market 

commercial banking franchise with further geographic and business 
diversification.

•  Growth of multi-product client relationships.

•  Enhanced profitability through targeted growth of preferred types of 

branch-raised deposits. 

•  Enhanced capital and risk management through transition to the 

Advanced Internal Ratings Based (AIRB) approach for calculating risk-
weighted assets.

•  Business transformation through increased use of technology to 

improve client service, banking convenience, cross-sell opportunities 
and overall efficiency within the branch network. 

2016 Financial Highlights 

•  Completed the acquisitions now referred to as CWB Maxium Financial 

and CWB Franchise Finance in support of further business and 
geographic diversification.

•  Achieved double-digit loan growth on a percentage basis for the 26th 

time in 27 years.

•  Diversified CWB’s funding mix with continued strong growth in 

preferred types of branch-raised deposits.

•  Strengthened CWB’s capital position in support of further profitable 
growth through issuance of $140 million of preferred shares and 
$150 million of common shares. 

•  Extended CWB’s strong track record for stable profitability with our 

115th consecutive profitable quarter.   

•  Returned $0.92 in dividends per common share to CWB shareholders, 

an increase of 7% over last year.

2016 Non-financial Highlights 

•  Opened CWB’s 42nd full-service branch through expansion of services 

in Lloydminster, Saskatchewan.

•  Successfully implemented CWB’s new core banking system in support 
of deeper client relationships and enhanced product and service offerings.

• 

• 

Initiated CWB’s three-year program to transition from the 
Standardized approach for calculating risk-weighted assets to the 
AIRB approach, with expected benefits to risk management processes, 
capital flexibility and overall profitability. 

Introduced CWB Wealth Management to integrate the knowledge 
and expertise of each wealth management entity, and provide 
comprehensive financial planning and wealth advisory services.

Support (S)
Balance risk and reward;
Drive operational efficiency;
Build funding sources

Financial (F)
Deliver profitable growth

•  Donated $421,000 to Big Brothers Big Sisters through the ongoing 

success of the Greater Interest GIC, bringing total program donations 
to more than $2.5 million.

•  Donated $25,000 to the Canadian Red Cross to support communities 

affected by the wildfires in Fort McMurray.

5

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report 
Lines of Business

Banking

We set ourselves apart through our commitment to service excellence, 
coupled with our in-depth understanding of the markets where our 
clients do business. We specialize in business banking services and 
equipment financing for small- to medium-sized businesses, and offer 
a full complement of personal banking products and services through 
42 branches and Internet banking services provided by Canadian Direct 
Financial (CDF). We pride ourselves on offering relevant products that 
help our clients manage their day-to-day finances while also preparing for 
what’s to come.

Business Banking

CWB’s targeted complement of products and services help businesses 
with their operating and capital needs. We specialize in general 
commercial banking, financing for commercial real estate and real estate 
construction. 

CWB Maxium Financial provides financing solutions to more than 35,000 
clients representing a diversified portfolio in specialized areas of health 
care, golf, transportation, real estate, and general corporate financing. 
CWB Maxium’s head office is located in Richmond Hill, Ontario, and the 
majority of its business is outside of Western Canada.

CWB Franchise Finance provides financing across Canada to a diverse 
group of established companies in the hospitality and restaurant 
industries.

Equipment Financing and Leasing

With operations across Canada, our equipment leasing subsidiary, 
National Leasing, is the largest Canadian lessor in small and mid-size 
commercial equipment transactions. Financing solutions are available 
in all business sectors, with a focus on general commercial, agriculture, 
health care, and golf and turf. 

Our branch-based equipment lenders specialize in financing standard 
industrial equipment for borrowers operating within our branch footprint 
in Western Canada. 

Our Calgary-based Broker Buying Centre selectively acquires loan 
portfolios from the finance divisions of original equipment manufacturers. 

Personal Banking

CWB offers a full complement of personal banking services including 
chequing and savings accounts, mortgages, home equity lines of credit, 
personal loans and investment products through our branch network 
across Western Canada. 

CWB Optimum Mortgage, our broker-sourced alternative mortgage 
provider, offers personalized borrowing solutions for clients who fall 
outside of traditional lending guidelines. 

CDF offers services to clients across Canada seeking enhanced flexibility 
for their personal banking and investment needs. Round-the-clock online 
account access and a dedicated customer service team available by phone 
five days a week allow our clients to manage their finances with ease.

6

Trust Services

We offer personalized pension, trustee and custodial solutions for 
individuals and businesses through Canadian Western Trust (CWT). CWT 
has a proven reputation for delivering value and service. We build trusted 
business relationships and work with clients to offer a flexible, solutions-
oriented approach.

Wealth Management

Rooted in planning ahead to make the most of every opportunity, CWB 
Wealth Management takes a unified approach to deliver sound service, 
helpful solutions and ongoing support to help clients achieve their vision 
for the future. 

Financial planning and investment products are offered at CWB branches 
through our licensed mutual fund representatives. Under the Canadian 
Western Financial banner, clients have access to a range of investment 
products from Canada’s leading mutual fund companies including CWB’s 
proprietary Core Funds and Onyx Portfolio Series mutual funds.

High net-worth individuals and institutions looking for discretionary 
wealth management will find value in working with our boutique 
companies, Adroit Investment Management and McLean & Partners 
Wealth Management. With distinct investment strategies, clients have 
access to various approaches that are well-suited to their risk appetite.

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report 
CWB honoured with The Community Partnership Award recognizing significant contributions to and support of 
mentorship programming across Western Canada

Awarded by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada 

Awards and Accolades

CWB recognized at the Employment Equity Achievement Awards 

CWB received a National Philanthropy Day Award for support of 

in the category of Improved Representation for initiatives to 

the Royal Alexandra Hospital’s Addiction Recovery and Community 

create a diverse workplace between 2010 and 2014

Health Program

Awarded by Employment and Social Development Canada

CWB Optimum Mortgage ranked as the top alternative lender, 

earning three gold and seven silver medals, as well as highest 

overall score

Awarded by the Edmonton chapter of the Association of Fundraising 
Professionals

CWB received LEED® Canada Silver certification for its Edmonton 
Main Branch

Awarded by Canadian Mortgage Professionals Magazine

Awarded by Canada Green Building Council

National Leasing awarded the ELFA Technology award for National 

Leasing Interactive

Awarded by the Equipment Leasing and Finance Association

CWB Corporate Communications recognized with the Award of 

Excellence in Communication Skills – Digital Communication

Awarded by International Association of Business Communicators 
Edmonton

7

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual ReportMessage from Chris Fowler,  
President and CEO 

Building on our strengths

We took a number of important steps forward in fiscal 2016, and we 
faced a number of significant challenges. Our successes included the 
acquisitions of CWB Maxium and CWB Franchise Finance, as well as the 
implementation of our new core banking system. Challenges included 
the negative impact of low oil prices and regulatory factors on our small 
portfolio of loans to oil and gas producers. We took a proactive approach 
to resolve these positions, which resulted in higher-than-expected 
provisions for credit losses and contributed to a decrease of 15% in 
annual common shareholders’ net income. While this was a difficult 
experience, it demonstrated that CWB’s unique mid-market commercial 
banking business model is highly resilient. I’m extremely proud of the way 
our teams stepped up. Thanks to their outstanding effort, we overcame 
our challenges and moved CWB’s well-defined growth strategy forward.  

CWB’s value proposition to shareholders is based on our strategy to 
deliver strong growth in earnings per common share and progressive 
increases in return on common shareholders’ equity from current levels, 

along with a disciplined approach to capital and risk management. We 
define success as a well-funded, well-capitalized mid-market commercial 
banking franchise. We seek to earn a premium price-to-earnings multiple 
on the basis of predictable earnings growth with business and geographic 
diversification that leverages our strengths, meets our risk appetite and 
fits our economic and regulatory environment. 

Our strategic objectives include strong, balanced growth of both loans 
and funding sources, as well as progress toward a more balanced 
geographic footprint and broader diversification within targeted sectors 
of Canada’s commercial banking industry. Both of the commercial lending 
acquisitions we completed this year will directly support these goals. 

We recorded several significant milestones in key performance metrics. 
Total assets surpassed $25 billion with another year of strong, double-
digit loan growth of 13%. Total deposits exceeded $21 billion, including 
12% annual growth of branch-raised deposits. Growth of pre-tax, pre-
provision earnings was strong at 8%. We also strengthened our capital 
position to support ongoing high-quality asset growth, through issuance 
of both common and preferred shares.

8

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual ReportTo this end, our commitment to business process and talent 
transformation includes efforts to establish the most effective team 
structures, appropriate incentives, and efficient business processes that 
make use of scalable technology solutions. The purpose of this effort is to 
create the best possible client experience across our lines of business, and 
to translate our traditional, client service-related competitive strengths 

into a differentiated offering that will drive our continued growth.

Targeted acquisitions in support 
of growth and diversification

Both of our fiscal 2016 acquisitions, CWB Maxium Financial and CWB 
Franchise Finance, are integral components of our balanced growth 
strategy. With 70 – 80% of each portfolio based outside of Western 
Canada and the majority of originations focused within the general 
commercial sector, these businesses will contribute to the strategic 
expansion of our geographic footprint, with a particular focus in Ontario, 
and further diversification of our asset mix. 

CWB’s competitive strength in Western Canada has always been based 
on specialized industry knowledge and a targeted approach to niche 
markets. Management at CWB Maxium Financial and CWB Franchise 
Finance have established track records for success within their markets 
based on the same value proposition. The addition of these experienced 
management teams has deepened our leadership capabilities and 
expanded our growth opportunities. I look forward to meaningful 
contributions from both segments to CWB’s ongoing growth of both 

assets and earnings per share.     

Looking ahead

We asked a lot of our teams over the past year, and I would like to 
take this opportunity to recognize our people for their passion and 
commitment in helping CWB achieve our strategic goals. Our teams are 
currently working hard to ensure our new banking system performs to 
its full capacity as quickly as possible, and I would like to thank them for 
continuing to go beyond the call of duty. I would also like to express my 
deepest gratitude to our clients for their enduring trust. Our clients are 
the reason we exist. Their success inspires us, and we are motivated to 
continually find ways to improve our service and help them grow. 

I strongly believe we have established the appropriate foundation for 
sustainable and profitable growth for CWB shareholders. We continue to 
invest in technology and business process improvements to empower our 
people to fully deliver the highest level of client service, accelerate growth 
in multi-product client relationships, and optimize our capital and risk 
management processes.  We enter fiscal 2017 with a very strong capital 
position and a promising pipeline of growth opportunities across the 
country. We are looking forward to building on these accomplishments 
and driving CWB to many more years of strong financial performance. 

CWB’s balanced growth strategy

We have established specific strategic priorities, all of which extend 
from our relationships with targeted mid-market commercial clients. 
They include purposeful efforts to support net interest margin through 
growth of diversified, lower cost funding sources with a particular focus 
on branch-raised deposits; to allocate capital based on the appropriate 
balance of risk and reward; and, to achieve necessary business process 
and talent transformation to earn more business across the country.

Growth of lower-cost funding sources  

Among the significant benefits of our new core banking technology is the 
ability to leverage a client-centric view of our branch-based relationships. 
This technology sets the stage for scalable growth by enabling us to 
focus more of our energy on building relationships through delivery of 
targeted financial solutions that match our clients’ needs. Ultimately, this 
will support net interest margin through success against our strategic 
objective to grow lower-cost funding sources, including branch-raised 

deposits.

Capital and risk management

The new banking system also supports our capital and risk management 
objectives, and positions us to improve our return on shareholders’ equity, 

by facilitating an eventual transition to the Advanced Internal Ratings Based 

(AIRB) methodology for managing credit risk and calculating risk-weighted 

assets.  

Our clients are the reason 
we exist. Their success 
inspires us, and we are 
motivated to continually 
find ways to improve our 
service and help them grow. 

The AIRB approach will put us on more equal footing with our competition. 

It will add risk sensitivity to our framework for capital management, 

increase our risk quantification processes, and improve our risk-

based pricing and economic capital estimations. These improved risk 

management capabilities will better equip us to target business segments 

that generate the most attractive risk-adjusted returns and allocate our 

resources accordingly.

Business process and talent transformation

Highly responsive client service, quick turnaround and proactive delivery 
of targeted, expert-based financial solutions have always set us apart 
from our competitors. Our strategy is to leverage this advantage toward 
development of multi-product client relationships centred around our 
unique business banking specialty. Our future success will depend on 
effective collaboration between engaged, well-trained and empowered 

CWB teams. 

9

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual ReportMessage from Robert Phillips,  
Chair of the Board 

CWB’s vision is to be seen as 
crucial to our clients’ futures

Balanced growth through 
strategic investment

In 2011, your Board of Directors began to work with CWB’s management 
to establish a plan for the next stage of CWB’s growth. We defined a 
number of critical steps CWB should take over the ensuing five years 
in order to be seen as crucial to our clients’ futures. We specifically 
targeted strategic investment in technology, a thorough evaluation of 
each Group company to determine the best mix of business lines to serve 
our targeted commercial banking clients, and purposeful development of 
CWB’s enterprise risk management framework. Five years on, I’m pleased 
to report that we achieved a number of important milestones in each 
of those categories in fiscal 2016, and we are now well-positioned to 
embark on CWB’s next phase of balanced growth.  

The impact of technological innovation within the financial services 
industry is plainly evident today. With the successful implementation 
of CWB’s new core banking system in May of this year, CWB is now 
equipped to leverage current technology to enhance our product 
and service offerings in support of our balanced growth strategy. It’s 
important to note this significant technology deployment was facilitated 
through several prior technology-related initiatives beginning several 
years ago, including full replacement of CWB’s systems hardware and 
implementation of an on-line loan origination system, both within CWB 
and National Leasing. These steps were necessary precursors to the full 
implementation of our new core banking system this year. 

We also undertook a thorough review and evaluation of each Group 
company. Ultimately we concluded that directing CWB’s focus toward 

10

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual ReportLooking ahead 

This year represents my first as Chair of the Board for CWB, a year 
which certainly presented its challenges. CWB is the only Schedule 1 
bank in Canada with a mid-market commercial banking focus, and 
we are uniquely positioned in relation to the domestic economy. This 
year, we weathered the significant economic impact in Alberta and 
Saskatchewan of the protracted period of low oil prices. I believe the 
conservative manner in which management addressed CWB’s direct oil 
and gas exposure reflects CWB’s consistent, prudent approach to risk 
management and was in the best interest of our shareholders.  

Lower oil prices represent one dimension of change which has occurred 
within CWB’s operating environment over the past several years. In 
truth, change has been, and will continue to be, a constant theme in 
our industry. Of course, with change comes opportunity. As a board, we 
recognize CWB needs the right leaders to realize on our opportunities 
and, over the past several years, we have worked with management 
through renewal of CWB’s Executive Committee. I am confident we have 
appointed the right leaders, and those leaders have established the correct 
strategy for the next phase of CWB’s profitable and balanced growth.  

In the coming years, CWB will continue to operate from an unshakeable 
foundation of honesty, integrity and the desire to do the right thing for 
our people, our clients, our shareholders and the communities in which 
we work. We will maintain our focus on the mid-market commercial 
banking industry in Canada, deliver balanced growth of both high-quality 
loans and cost-effective funding sources, and achieve further geographic 
and business sector diversification. 

CWB remains a unique story in Canadian banking. On behalf of the 
entire Board of Directors, I am pleased to say we are very excited about 
the future.

targeted and complementary offerings in banking, trust and wealth 
management was the best way to achieve CWB’s vision. To that end, we 
sold our insurance and stock transfer businesses last year, and this year 
completed the acquisitions we now refer to as CWB Maxium Financial 
and CWB Franchise Finance. 

Both new businesses support CWB’s established commercial banking 
strategy and offer specialized financing originations with attractive 
returns. These are highly strategic acquisitions that support CWB’s 
relationship-focused strategic direction by positioning us to reach more 
clients with an expanded service offering across the country, with a 
particular focus on growth in Ontario.

Balanced growth through 
enterprise risk management 

Along with purposeful investment in technology and strategic refinement 
of CWB’s lines of business, we also continue to develop CWB’s enterprise 
risk management framework. At the Board level, we transitioned the 
Directors’ Loans Committee into a Board Risk Committee. This has 
enabled the Board to focus more of its energy on strategic issues that 
are fundamental to CWB’s continued success while sustaining effective 
oversight practices. 

In 2016, this included working with management to determine the 
appropriate level of capital to support CWB’s strong acquisition-related 
and ongoing organic growth under the Standardized approach for 
calculating risk weighted assets. Ultimately, we determined that issuances 
of preferred and common shares were prudent, and we took these steps 
in the second and third quarters, respectively.  

We continued to contemplate CWB’s optimal capital structure in view of 
the current and potential future regulatory framework. This year, CWB 
established a formal program charter in support of its application for 
transition to the Advanced Internal Ratings Based (AIRB) approach for 
managing credit risk and calculating risk-weighted assets, including an 
anticipated three-year time frame. Under the AIRB approach, CWB will 
gain critical insight to enable management to more precisely calibrate 
risk exposures within CWB’s growing portfolio and ensure those risks are 
managed effectively as we achieve balanced and sustainable growth. Risk 
measurement under the AIRB approach will also support effective capital 
deployment to maximize shareholder return. 

The AIRB transition will help to establish a more level competitive playing 
field for CWB, and it’s important to note the core banking system 
implementation represented a critical step in support of this objective. In 
that way, CWB’s purposeful investment in technology and development of 
its enterprise risk management framework will continue to go hand in hand.  

The Board’s commitment to 
governance best practices

At CWB, we have always placed significant value on strong board 
governance and we continually assess the most appropriate manner of 
incorporating best practices into our governance activities. I’m proud to 
say that CWB has committed to The 30% Club, a global organization 
which aims to promote more women to senior corporate roles. The 
ultimate goal is to increase the proportion of women represented on 
boards of directors to 30% over time. Women currently represent 29% of 
CWB’s Executive Committee and 17% of the Board. In the coming year, 
we plan to propose a new director for shareholder approval, and we are 
working diligently to identify the most suitable candidate. 

11

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual ReportThank you from CWBIn March 2016, at CWB’s 32nd annual shareholders’ meeting, our previous Chairman, Allan Jackson, retired from the Board of Directors after 31 years of strong stewardship and unfailing commitment to CWB Financial Group, including five years as Chair. Allan first demonstrated his support as a founding shareholder and director of CWB’s predecessor institution in 1984. He consistently exemplified the highest standard of personal integrity, and played an important role in many major business decisions during his tenure. Mr. Jackson made invaluable contributions to this organization’s culture and success, and helped to create a strong footing upon which CWB will continue to grow.  We are truly thankful for Mr. Jackson’s many years of dedication and service. In recognition of our gratitude, we have established an undergraduate scholarship in Mr. Jackson’s name at the Richard Ivey School of Business.Board of Directors

Board of Directors from left to right (October 31, 2016): Raymond J. Protti, Corporate Director; Andrew J. Bibby, CEO and Director, Grosvenor Americas Partners; Linda M.O. Hohol, Corporate 
Director; H. Sanford Riley, President and CEO, Richardson Financial Group Limited; Albrecht W. A. Bellstedt, President, A.W.A. Bellstedt Professional Corporation; Chris H. Fowler, President and 
CEO, Canadian Western Bank; Robert L. Phillips (Chair), President, R.L. Phillips Investments Inc.; Alan M. Rowe, Partner, Crown Realty Partners; Sarah A. Morgan-Silvester, Corporate Director; 
Robert A. Manning, President, Cathton Investments Ltd.; Ian M. Reid, Corporate Director.

Corporate Governance

At CWB, we strive to earn and maintain 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 
and the transparency of disclosure with the recognition that this 
commitment directly contributes to the creation of long-term shareholder 
value and the sound functioning of our organization.

Board Oversight

The Board of Directors (the Board) is responsible for the overall 
stewardship of CWB, including approval and monitoring of CWB’s 
overall strategy, review and approval of the risk management framework 
and fostering a culture of ethical conduct and accountability. CWB’s 
Management Proxy Circular for the 2017 Annual Meeting sets out the 
director candidates proposed for election as well as detailed information 
regarding the Board’s committees and activities during the past year.

Board Independence 

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 where CWB operates. All directors, other than CWB’s 
President and CEO, are independent. All Board meetings include time for 
the independent directors to meet without management present.

Ethical Conduct

At CWB, 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. The CWB Financial Group Code of 
Conduct, called Living our Values, guides our decision-making and sets 
the standards of integrity, honesty and accountability that CWB teams 
and individuals are expected to follow. Every director and employee 
commits to Living our Values each year by making an acknowledgment 
that they have read, understood and complied with the Code of Conduct.

Compensation Programs

CWB’s director and executive compensation policies follow governance 
best practices. Our compensation practices are designed to reward pay 
for performance and discourage unreasonable risk taking. 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. 

Shareholder Engagement

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’s 
corporate governance practices is available in the Corporate Governance 
section at cwb.com.

12

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual ReportExecutive Committee

Chris Fowler

Carolyn Graham, FCPA, FCA

Kelly Blackett

President and Chief Executive Officer

Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Chris Fowler became president and chief 
executive officer of CWB in March 2013, 
concurrent with his appointment as chair of 
CWB’s Executive Committee and his election to 
the Board of Directors.

Carolyn Graham plays a lead role in all financial 
and regulatory matters, as well as strategic 
planning and other initiatives. Her primary 
responsibilities currently include finance, 
treasury, capital management, investor 
relations, internal audit, and legal services.

Executive Vice President, Human Resources and 
Corporate Communications

Kelly Blackett is responsible for providing 
executive leadership, vision and direction 
regarding CWB’s overall approach to 
Human Resources, including Learning and 
Development. She is also responsible for 
oversight of Corporate Communications.

Glen Eastwood

Darrell Jones 

Stephen Murphy

Executive Vice President, Business Transformation

Executive Vice President and Chief Information Officer

Executive Vice President, Banking

Glen Eastwood is responsible for business 
transformation activities that leverage our 
people, technology and practices in the pursuit 
of an excellent client experience. He is also 
responsible for oversight of CWB Wealth 
Management and Canadian Western Trust.

Darrell Jones is responsible for delivery of 
technology and information across CWB. 
He is also responsible for leading the facility 
management function across the enterprise.

Stephen Murphy is responsible for all branch 
operations, including business and personal 
banking, product development, equipment 
financing and corporate lending. He also 
provides executive oversight for the business 
operations of CWB Optimum Mortgage, 
National Leasing, CWB Maxium Financial and 
CWB Franchise Finance.

H. Bogie Ozdemir

Executive Vice President and Chief Risk Officer

Bogie Ozdemir is responsible for providing 
leadership, vision and direction regarding 
CWB’s overall approach to risk management 
and compliance. In his role, he oversees credit 
risk management, risk data aggregation 
and analytics, group risk and regulatory 
compliance.

13

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual ReportKey RetirementsRandy Garvey, Executive Vice President, Corporate Services, and Greg Sprung, Executive Vice President, Banking, both retired from CWB’s Executive Committee on September 1, 2016. Both Randy and Greg made significant contributions during their time with CWB, and we would like to sincerely thank them, on behalf of the entire CWB Financial Group team, for their years of service. 
 
 
 
 
 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis (MD&A)

TABLE OF CONTENTS

BUSINESS PROFILE AND STRATEGY  14

COMPREHENSIVE INCOME 

VISION 

FISCAL 2016 SIGNIFICANT EVENTS 

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS 

TAXABLE EQUIVALENT BASIS (TEB) 

NON-IFRS MEASURES 

CWB FINANCIAL GROUP  

PERFORMANCE 

OVERVIEW 

NET INTEREST INCOME 

NON-INTEREST INCOME 

NON-INTEREST EXPENSES, EFFICIENCY 

AND OPERATING LEVERAGE 

ACQUISITION-RELATED FAIR VALUE 

CHANGES 

INCOME TAXES 

RESULTS OF DISCONTINUED  

15

15

16

16

16

18

18

23

24

26

28

28

CASH AND SECURITIES 

LOANS 

CREDIT QUALITY 

DEPOSITS 

30

30

31

35

38

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES 

50

CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING POLICIES 

AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT  

PRESENTATION 

FUTURE CHANGES IN  

OTHER ASSETS AND OTHER LIABILITIES  39

ACCOUNTING POLICIES 

LIQUIDITY MANAGEMENT 

CAPITAL MANAGEMENT 

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND  

OTHER INSTRUMENTS 

ACQUISITIONS AND DIVESTITURES 

OFF-BALANCE SHEET  

40

42

45 

46

46

RISK MANAGEMENT  

RISK MANAGEMENT OVERVIEW 

REPORT ON PRINCIPAL RISKS 

  CREDIT RISK 

 MARKET RISK 

 CAPITAL RISK 

SUMMARY OF QUARTERLY 

 OPERATIONAL RISK 

RESULTS AND FOURTH QUARTER   47

 OTHER RISK FACTORS 

QUARTERLY RESULTS 

FOURTH QUARTER OF 2016 

ACCOUNTING POLICIES 

UPDATED SHARE INFORMATION 

CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES 

47

49

50

52

52

53

54

59

59

61

66

67

69

70

70

OPERATIONS 

29 

AND ESTIMATES 

BUSINESS PROFILE AND STRATEGY

Canadian Western Bank (TSX:CWB) is the only Schedule 1 bank in 
Canada specializing in mid-market commercial banking, real estate and 
construction financing, and equipment financing and leasing. CWB, 
along with its subsidiaries, National Leasing Group Inc. (National Leasing), 
CWB Maxium Financial Inc. (CWB Maxium), Canadian Western Trust 
Company (CWT), CWB Wealth Management Ltd. (CWB WM), Adroit 
Investment Management Ltd. (Adroit), McLean & Partners Wealth 
Management Ltd. (McLean & Partners) and Canadian Western Financial 
Ltd. (CWF), are together known as CWB Financial Group (CWB). 

Clients recognize CWB for our in-depth knowledge of targeted segments 
within Canada’s commercial banking industry and our unique brand 
of personal service. Shareholders value CWB’s strong track record of 
high-quality, industry-leading growth, conservative approach to risk 
management and consistent profitability. We define success as a well-
funded, well-capitalized mid-market commercial banking franchise 
deserving of a premium price-to-earnings multiple based on strong 
core operating performance and consistent growth of earnings and 
profitability from current levels.

Our balanced growth strategy is based on delivery of responsive, 
personalized service and sensible financial solutions. We remain 
committed to our fundamental identity as a conservative, growth-
oriented organization, and we maintain a supportive environment for 
employees within a results-oriented culture. Our focus is to empower 
our people to deliver the highest level of client service, accelerate growth 
of multi-product client relationships, and optimize our capital and risk 
management processes. We aim to provide strong long-term returns for 
shareholders and give back within the communities where we live and 
work.

Our strategic objectives include strong, balanced growth of both loans 
and funding sources, as well as progress toward a more balanced 
geographic footprint with broader diversification across targeted 
sectors of Canada’s commercial banking industry. These objectives are 

14

complemented by specific goals related to risk and capital management, 
and business transformation through targeted use of technology. 

To complement our commercial banking focus, CWB’s full-service banking 
strategy delivers a wide variety of personal financial products and 
services, including personal loans and mortgages, deposit accounts and 
investment products. Customer access to all banking services is primarily 
provided through a network of 42 client-focused branches in select 
locations across the four western provinces. Canadian Direct Financial® 
(CDF) is CWB’s Internet-based division offering a range of deposit and 
registered savings products directly to customers in all provinces and 
territories except Quebec.

National Leasing specializes in small- and mid-sized commercial 
equipment leases and is represented across all provinces of Canada. 
CWB Maxium provides loans, leases and structured financing to clients 
primarily in Ontario. CWB Franchise Finance is a specialty lending division 
that provides loans and leases to hotel and restaurant franchises across 
the country. CWB Optimum Mortgage (Optimum) underwrites and 
administers residential mortgages sourced through an extensive network 
of mortgage brokers located in Western Canada, Ontario and Atlantic 
Canada. CWT provides trustee and custody services to independent 
financial advisors, corporations, brokerage firms and individuals. 
Comprehensive wealth advisory services are offered through CWB Wealth 
Management. This includes discretionary wealth management primarily 
for high net-worth individuals provided through Adroit and McLean & 
Partners, as well as third-party mutual funds and the proprietary CWB 
Core Funds and CWB Onyx Portfolio Series of mutual funds offered with 
financial and investment planning advice through CWB’s branch network. 

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
VISION  

FISCAL 2016 SIGNIFICANT EVENTS

To be seen as crucial to our clients' futures.  

Strategic Acquisitions 

CWB is focused on becoming the trusted financial partner to a growing 
base of clients. Our teams focus on key activities which contribute the 
greatest impact toward the achievement of our vision to be seen as 
crucial to our clients’ futures. We track both financial and non-financial 
measures within four interdependent realms of activity (People, Support, 
Clients, Financial) to monitor progress toward achievement of our 
strategic objectives:

CWB
relationships

i

n
v
e
s
t

m
e
n
t

p
r
o
fi
t
a
b
e

l

g
r
o
w
t
h

People (P)
Invest in our people;
Live our values

Clients (C)
Be the trusted
financial partner

Support (S)
Balance risk and reward;
Drive operational efficiency;
Build funding sources

Financial (F)
Deliver profitable growth

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.

On March 1, 2016, CWB acquired the non-securitized lending assets and 
other net business assets, including key employees, of Maxium Financial 
Services Inc. and Desante Financial Services Inc., now “CWB Maxium”. 
CWB Maxium provides loans, equipment leases and structured financing 
solutions to more than 35,000 clients, mainly in Ontario. Specialized 
financing solutions are primarily provided in the areas of health care, golf, 
transportation, real estate and general corporate financing. On July 1, 
2016, CWB acquired GE Capital’s Canadian Franchise Finance platform, 
now “CWB Franchise Finance”. The business provides financing across 
Canada to a diverse group of established companies in the franchised 
hotel and restaurant industries. 

These acquisitions are integral components of CWB’s balanced growth 
strategy, and represent the strategic redeployment of divestiture gains 
realized last year. With 70 − 80% of both portfolios based outside of 
Western Canada and the majority of originations focused within the 
general commercial sector, CWB Maxium and CWB Franchise Finance will 
contribute to the targeted expansion of CWB’s geographic footprint and 
further diversification of its asset mix. In combination, the acquisitions 
were slightly accretive to adjusted cash earnings per share this year, with 
accelerating contributions expected going forward. Details as to financial 
consideration are disclosed within the Acquisitions and Divestitures 
section of this MD&A.   

Core Banking System Implementation

CWB’s earnings growth and business diversification are expected to 
benefit from ongoing success in key strategic initiatives to broaden and 
deepen multi-product client relationships and attract new clients. The 
successful launch of CWB’s new core banking system on May 2, 2016, is 
expected to facilitate these initiatives over the medium term and advance 
efforts to build core funding sources, enhance product and service 
offerings, and leverage current and future investment in technology. This 
improved technology will enable CWB to benefit from a client-centric 
view of branch-based relationships and achieve further operational 
efficiencies. The new system will also support CWB’s application for 
transition to the Advanced Internal Ratings Based (AIRB) methodology 
for managing credit risk and calculating risk-weighted assets. A project 
plan has been finalized in support of CWB’s application, including an 
anticipated three-year time frame.

Oil and Gas-related Provisions for Credit Losses

Credit quality as measured by the provision for credit losses outside 
of CWB’s small portfolio of oil and gas loans was consistent with 
management’s expectations. This reflected CWB’s secured lending 
business model, disciplined underwriting practices and proactive loan 
management. However, significantly higher provisioning within the 
oil and gas loans portfolio resulted from the impact of persistently 
low and volatile energy commodity prices on producer cash flows, as 
well as the influence of regulatory factors on the liquidity of assets 
securing these exposures. In view of these factors, management took a 
proactive approach to resolve positions within this portfolio and recorded 
cumulative provisions for credit losses on oil and gas production loans 
of $41.6 million. Prior to reporting second quarter financial results, 
management announced revised expectations for the annual provision for 
credit losses of 35 – 45 basis points, compared with previous expectations 
of 18 – 23 basis points. The realized annual provision for credit losses of 
38 basis points was consistent with these revised expectations, with the 
increase from 17 basis points last year entirely attributed to the credit 
performance of oil and gas loans. 

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

15

 
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

TAXABLE EQUIVALENT BASIS (TEB)

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, the volatility and level of various commodity 
prices, changes in monetary policy, changes in economic and political 
conditions, legislative and regulatory developments, legal developments, 
the level of competition, the occurrence of 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.

Assumptions about the performance of the Canadian economy over the 
forecast horizon and how it will affect CWB’s businesses are material 
factors considered when setting organizational objectives and targets. In 
determining expectations for economic growth, management primarily 
considers economic data and forecasts provided by the Canadian 
government and its agencies, as well as an average of certain private 
sector forecasts. These forecasts are subject to inherent risks and 
uncertainties that may be general or specific. Where relevant, material 
economic assumptions underlying forward-looking statements are 
disclosed within the Outlook sections of this MD&A. 

16

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 
2016 adjustment to taxable equivalent basis from Continuing Operations 
of $3.2 million (2015 – $5.6 million) increases interest income and the 
provision for income taxes to what they would have been had the tax-
exempt securities been taxed at the statutory rate. The taxable equivalent 
basis does not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and, 
therefore, may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other 
banks. Total revenues, net interest income and income taxes are discussed 
on a taxable equivalent basis throughout this MD&A.

NON-IFRS MEASURES

Taxable equivalent basis, adjusted cash earnings per common share, 
pre-tax, pre-provision income, return on common shareholders’ equity, 
adjusted return on common shareholders’ equity, return on assets, 
efficiency ratio, net interest margin, common equity Tier 1, Tier 1 and 
total capital adequacy ratios, operating leverage, common share dividend 
payout ratio 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-IFRS measures 
used in this MD&A are calculated as follows:

•  Taxable equivalent basis – described above.

•  Pre-tax, pre-provision income – total revenue (teb) less non-interest 
expenses, excluding the pre-tax amortization of acquisition-related 
intangible assets (see calculation on page 17).

•  Adjusted cash earnings per common share – diluted earnings per 
common share excluding the acquisition-related amortization of 
intangible assets and contingent consideration fair value changes, net 
of tax (see calculation on page 17). Excluded items are not considered 
to be indicative of ongoing business performance.

•  Return on common shareholders’ equity – common shareholders’ net 

income divided by average common shareholders’ equity.

•  Adjusted return on common shareholders’ equity – common 
shareholders’ net income excluding the acquisition-related 
amortization of intangible assets and contingent consideration fair 
value changes, net of tax (see calculation on page 17), divided by 
average common shareholders’ equity. 

•  Return on assets – common shareholders’ net income divided by 

average total assets.

•  Efficiency ratio – non-interest expenses, excluding the pre-tax 

amortization of acquisition-related intangible assets (see calculation on 
page 17), divided by total revenues, including the net gain related to 
the sales of the property and casualty insurance subsidiary and CWB’s 
stock transfer business. 

•  Operating leverage – total revenue (teb) growth less growth of non-
interest expenses, excluding the pre-tax amortization of acquisition-
related intangible assets.

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

assets.

•  Basel III common equity Tier 1, Tier 1 and total capital ratios under 
the Standardized approach for calculating risk-weighted assets – in 
accordance with guidelines issued by the Office of the Superintendent 
of Financial Institutions Canada (OSFI).

•  Common share dividend payout ratio − common share dividends 

declared during the year divided by common shareholders’ net income. 

•  Average balances – average daily balances.

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual ReportTable 1 - Adjusted Financial Measures (Continuing Operations)(1)
($ thousands)

Non-interest expenses

Adjustments (pre-tax):

Amortization of acquisition-related intangible assets

Adjusted non-interest expenses

2016

2015

 $  

313,647 

 $  

293,489 

(6,354)

(4,548)

 $  

307,293 

 $  

288,941 

Common shareholders' net income from Continuing Operations

 $  

177,761 

 $  

208,064 

Adjustments (after-tax):

Amortization of acquisition-related intangible assets

Acquisition-related fair value changes

Adjusted common shareholders' net income

Table 2 - Adjusted Financial Measures (Combined Operations)(1)
($ thousands)

Non-interest expenses

Adjustments (pre-tax):

Amortization of acquisition-related intangible assets

Adjusted non-interest expenses

4,682 

5,775 

3,006 

638 

 $  

188,218 

 $  

211,708 

2016

2015

 $  

313,647 

 $  

304,593 

(6,354)

(4,548)

 $  

307,293 

 $  

300,045 

Common shareholders' net income from Combined Operations

 $   

177,761 

 $  

319,701 

Adjustments (after-tax):

Amortization of acquisition-related intangible assets

Contingent consideration fair value changes

Adjusted common shareholders' net income

Table 3 - Pre-tax, Pre-provision (PPTP) Income (Continuing Operations)(1)
($ thousands)

Total revenue (teb)

Less:

Adjusted non-interest expenses (see above)

Pre-tax, pre-provision income

(1) See footnote 2 on page 19.

4,682 

5,775 

3,006 

638 

 $  

188,218 

 $  

323,345 

2016

2015

 $  

661,136 

 $  

617,000 

307,293 

288,941 

 $  

353,843 

 $  

328,059 

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

17

    
 
 
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
CWB FINANCIAL GROUP PERFORMANCE

OVERVIEW

Highlights of 2016 for Continuing Operations (compared to 2015)

•  Completed the acquisitions now known as CWB Maxium Financial 
and CWB Franchise Finance, supporting CWB’s strategic objective 
to achieve further geographic and business diversification within 
targeted segments of the commercial banking industry.

•  Successfully launched CWB’s new core banking system, a key 
technology investment which is expected to facilitate business 
process improvements that will empower CWB teams to deliver 
the highest level of client service, accelerate growth of multi-
product client relationships, and optimize CWB’s capital and risk 
management processes.

•  Opened CWB’s 42nd full-service branch through expansion of 

operations in Lloydminster, Saskatchewan.  

•  Very strong, well-diversified loan growth of 13%, marking the 

achievement of double-digit annual loan growth for the 26th time 
in 27 years.

•  Very strong branch-raised deposit growth of 12%, including 15% 

growth of targeted notice and demand deposits.

•  Strong core operating performance, with pre-tax, pre-provision 

income of $353.8 million, up 8%, and positive operating leverage.

•  Common shareholders’ net income of $177.8 million, down 15%. 

•  Diluted earnings per common share of $2.13, down 18%, and 

adjusted cash earnings per common share of $2.26, down 14%.

•  Earnings growth constrained by credit performance of oil and gas 

loans and continued net interest margin pressure.

•  Provision for credit losses as a percentage of average loans of 
38 basis points, up from 17 basis points due to losses related 
to oil and gas loans. The full year provision was within CWB’s 
expectation of 35 – 45 basis points, revised from 18 – 23 basis 
points prior to CWB reporting second quarter financial results. 
Excluding oil and gas-related credit losses, the annual provision 
was 18 basis points of average loans. Gross impaired loans 
represented 0.58% of total loans, up from 0.49%, primarily due 
to increased impairments within Alberta. 

•  Net interest margin (teb) of 2.43%, down 13 basis points. The 
change primarily reflects lower asset yields, partly due to the 
impact of the Bank of Canada’s 2015 rate cuts, partially offset by 
the positive impact of these rate cuts on some deposit costs and 
favourable changes in deposit mix.

•  Strengthened capital position through issuance of $150 million 

of common shares and $140 million of preferred shares, 
contributing to very strong Basel III regulatory capital ratios under 
the Standardized approach for calculating risk-weighted assets 
of 9.2% common equity Tier 1 (CET1), 11.0% Tier 1 and 13.1% 
total capital.

18

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual ReportTable 4 - Select Annual Financial Information(1)
($ thousands, except per share amounts)

Key Performance Indicators (Continuing Operations)(2)

Total revenues (teb)

Total revenues

Pre-tax, pre-provision income (teb)

Common shareholders' net income

Earnings per share

Basic

Diluted

Adjusted cash

2016 

2015 

2014 

$

%

Change from 2015

 $ 

661,136 

 $   617,000 

 $ 

590,343 

 $    44,136 

657,896 

     611,420 

353,843 

     328,059 

177,761 

     208,064 

 583,600 

 325,720 

 205,288 

  46,476 

  25,784 

(30,303)

2.13

2.13 

2.26 

2.59 

2.59 

2.63 

 2.57 

 2.54 

 2.59 

 (0.46)

(0.46)

 (0.37)

7%

8 

8 

(15)

(18)

(18)

(14)

Return on common shareholders' equity

 9.3 %     

12.4%

 13.9 %

(310) bp(3)

Adjusted return on common shareholders' equity

Return on assets

Efficiency ratio (teb)(4)

Efficiency ratio(4)

Net interest margin (teb)

Net interest margin

Operating leverage

Provision for credit losses as a percentage of average loans

Key Performance Indicators (Combined Operations)(2)

 9.9 

 0.73 

 46.5 

 46.7 

 2.43 

 2.41 

 1 

 0.38 

12.6 

0.97 

46.8 

47.3 

2.56 

2.53 

(5)

0.17 

 14.2 

 1.05 

 44.8 

 45.4 

 2.59 

 2.56 

 - 

 0.15 

(270)

(24)

(30)

(60)

(13)

(12)

600 

21 

Common shareholders' net income

 $ 

177,761 

 $   319,701 

 $ 

218,549 

 $    (141,940)

(44)%

Earnings per share

Basic

Diluted

Adjusted cash

 2.13 

 2.13 

 2.26 

3.97 

3.97 

4.01 

Return on common shareholders' equity

 9.3 %     

19.1%

Adjusted return on common shareholders' equity

Return on assets

 9.9 

 0.73 

19.3 

1.48 

 (1.84)

 (1.84)

 (1.75)

 2.73 

 2.70 

 2.76 

 14.8 %

 15.1 

 1.10 

(46)

(46)

(44)

(980) bp(3)

(940)

 (75)

Key Performance Indicators (Discontinued Operations)(2)

Common shareholders' net income

 $ 

Earnings per common share

Basic

Diluted

Adjusted cash

- 

- 

- 

- 

 $   111,637 

 $ 

13,261 

 $    (111,637)

(100)%

1.38 

1.38 

1.38 

 0.16 

 0.16 

 0.17 

(1.38)

(1.38)

(1.38)

Other Financial Information (Combined Operations)(2)

Total assets

Dividends per common share

 $ 25,222,549 

 $  22,838,527 

 $ 20,635,046 

 $   2,384,022 

0.92 

0.86 

 0.78 

0.06

(1) See page 16 for a discussion of teb and non-IFRS measures.
(2) On May 1, 2015, CWB sold its property and casualty insurance subsidiary and CWB’s stock transfer business as described in Note 3 of the annual consolidated financial statements. Revenues, expenses and gains on sale associated with 
the businesses sold are defined and classified on the consolidated statements of income for prior periods as “Discontinued Operations”. The remaining operations are defined as “Continuing Operations”, and the total Continuing 
Operations and Discontinued Operations are defined as “Combined Operations”. Total revenues from Combined Operations in 2015 include $107.8 million of divestiture gains. Return on shareholders’ equity reflects equity from 
Combined Operations. All other measures reflect either Continuing or Combined Operations as indicated. 

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

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

19

(100)

(100)

(100)

10%

7 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
  
  
    
  
  
    
  
  
 
    
    
    
    
    
 
 
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
 
 
    
  
    
    
  
    
    
  
    
    
    
  
    
    
 
11.0% and 13.1%, respectively, were above both internal and regulatory 
minimums. OSFI’s minimum Basel III regulatory capital ratios for CWB, 
which include a 250 basis point capital conservation buffer, are 7.0% 
CET1, 8.5% Tier 1 and 10.5% total capital. The increase in CWB’s CET1 
capital ratio from last year mainly reflects the issuance of $150 million of 
common shares. Higher Tier 1 and Total capital ratios compared to last 
year reflect the issuance of $140 million of non-cumulative 5-year rate 
reset First Preferred Shares Series 7 (Non-Viability Contingent Capital), 
partially offset within Total capital by the redemption of $300 million of 
subordinated debentures.

Summary of Combined Operations

Common shareholders’ net income of $177.8 million was down from 
$319.7 million in 2015. Diluted earnings per share of $2.13 compared to 
$3.97, and adjusted cash earnings per common share of $2.26 decreased 
from $4.01. Excluding the impact of $107.8 million of divestiture gains 
and six months of operating contributions from divested businesses last 
year, the changes in common shareholders’ net income and earnings 
per share reflect the factors discussed within the overview of Continuing 
Operations above. Adjusted ROE for the year of 9.9% was down from 
19.3% last year when divestiture gains were realized. 

Summary of Continuing Operations

CWB’s core operating performance was strong based on achievement of 
record total revenues and 8% growth of pre-tax, pre-provision income to 
$353.8 million. However, common shareholders’ net income of $177.8 
million was 15% lower. Growth of 7% in net interest income (teb) was 
driven by very strong 13% loan growth, partially offset by the impact of 
a 13 basis point reduction in net interest margin (teb) to 2.43%. Of note, 
2016 marked the 26th time in 27 years CWB has achieved double-digit 
loan growth. Loan growth within British Columbia (BC) and Ontario 
accounted for more than 90% of the increase from 2015. The balance 
of outstanding loans in Alberta was relatively unchanged compared 
to last year. Very strong overall loan growth in view of the challenging 
operating environment in the oil-producing provinces demonstrates the 
benefit of CWB’s balanced growth strategy, which includes strategic 
objectives to achieve a more balanced geographic footprint and broader 
diversification within targeted sectors of Canada’s commercial banking 
industry. Non-interest income was also 7% higher, mainly due to growth 
of credit related fees, lower net losses on securities and increased trust 
services revenue. These positive factors were more than offset by an 
increase in the annual provision for credit losses to 38 basis points as a 
percentage of average loans, compared to 17 basis points last year, and 
a 7% increase in non-interest expenses. Although credit quality outside 
of CWB’s portfolio of oil and gas loans remained stable, higher provisions 
for credit losses resulted from losses recorded against oil and gas loans. 
The increase in non-interest expenses primarily reflects higher salaries and 
benefits, including the impact of acquisition-related increases in staffing, 
as well as the addition of amortization and sustainment costs related to 
the new core banking system and increased premises and other expenses 
to facilitate business growth. Further constraining growth of common 
shareholders’ net income, acquisition-related fair value changes were 
$7.9 million, compared to $0.6 million last year, and preferred share 
dividends of $10.6 million were up from $5.5 million. Diluted earnings 
per common share of $2.13 were down 18%, and adjusted cash 
earnings per common share of $2.26 were down 14%, reflecting the 
factors described above and the issuance of common shares. 

Adjusted return on common shareholders’ equity (ROE) of 9.9% 
was down from 12.6% in 2015, reflecting both lower earnings, the 
issuance of common shares and the impact of divestiture gains on 
total shareholders’ equity prior to re-deployment through acquisition. 
Total cash dividends paid to common shareholders of $0.92 per share 
increased 7% from $0.86 per share paid in the prior year, and resulted in 
a 2016 dividend payout ratio of 43% of total common shareholders’ net 
income. 

Total assets increased 10% to reach $25,223 million. Loan growth of 
13% was very strong, and deposits grew 9%, to reach $21,961 million 
and $21,195 million, respectively. Total branch-raised deposits increased 
12%, while the demand and notice component within branch-raised 
deposits was up 15%. 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 
branch-raised deposits represented 55% of total deposits at October 31, 
2016, up from 54% a year earlier. The demand and notice component 
comprised 36% of total deposits, up from 35% last year. The balance 
of deposits raised through the capital markets represented 9% of total 
funding, compared to 10% at October 31, 2015, while the proportion 
of total funding represented by personal fixed rate term deposits raised 
through the deposit broker network was unchanged at 36%. The ratio 
of total deposits to total loans at October 31, 2016 was effectively 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. CWB’s 
Basel III CET1, Tier 1 and total capital ratios at October 31, 2016 of 9.2%, 

20

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report 
Medium-term Performance Target Ranges 

CWB’s medium-term performance target ranges are unchanged from 
last year. Targets reflect key areas of shareholder value, the objectives 
embedded within CWB’s strategic direction and a time horizon 

consistent with the longer-term interests of CWB shareholders. Target 
ranges for key financial metrics over a three- to five-year time horizon 
are presented in the following table:

Medium-term 
Performance 
Target Ranges

Current Context

Adjusted cash earnings per 
common share growth(1)

Adjusted return on common 
shareholders’ equity(2)

Operating leverage(3)

Common equity Tier 1 capital ratio under the 
Standardized approach(4)

Common share dividend payout ratio(5)

7 - 12%

12 - 15%

Earnings and profitability for 2016 reflect the credit performance of CWB’s oil 
and gas loans, lower net interest margin and the issuance of common shares.

Positive

Fiscal 2016 operating leverage was positive 1%.

Strong

Q4 2016 ratio of 9.2% is very strong.

~30%

Fiscal 2016 ratio of 43% includes the impact of credit performance of oil 
and gas loans and the issuance of common shares.

(1) Adjusted cash earnings per common share is calculated as diluted earnings per common share excluding the acquisition-related amortization of intangible assets and the contingent consideration fair value changes, net of 
tax, which represent charges that are not considered to be indicative of ongoing operating performance. Performance for adjusted cash earnings per common share is the current year results over the prior year results. 

(2) Adjusted return on common shareholders’ equity is calculated as common shareholders’ net income excluding the acquisition-related amortization of intangible assets and the contingent consideration fair value 

changes, net of tax, divided by average common shareholders’ equity.

(3) Operating leverage is calculated as total revenue (teb) growth, less growth of non-interest expenses excluding the pre-tax amortization of acquisition-related intangible assets.
(4) Common equity Tier 1 capital ratio is calculated in accordance with Basel III guidelines issued by the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions Canada (OSFI) using the Standardized approach for credit risk.
(5) Common share dividend payout ratio is calculated as common share dividends declared during the year divided by common shareholders’ net income.

Medium-term performance target ranges are based on expectations 
for moderate economic growth and a relatively stable interest rate 
environment in Canada over the three- to five-year forecast horizon. 
Achievement of overall financial results within these target ranges 
will be largely driven by CWB’s commitment to continue to deliver 
ongoing strong loan growth at levels relatively consistent with recent 
performance, further optimization of CWB’s funding mix, strong 
credit quality, effective expense management in consideration of 
revenue growth opportunities and prudent capital management.

Outlook for Continuing Operations

Financial performance over a three- to five-year time frame is 
expected to be consistent with CWB’s medium-term targets, and 
to benefit from an expanding geographic footprint with increased 
business diversification. Ongoing success in key strategic initiatives 
to enhance client offerings, build core funding sources, and leverage 
current and future investment in technology is also expected to 
support strong financial performance over the medium-term. 
Management expects earnings growth and profitability to fall below 
medium-term target ranges in fiscal 2017. This reflects expectations 
for ongoing pressure on net interest margin, incremental increases in 
CWB’s expense base, mainly related to implementation of the new 
core banking system, a higher share count following the issuance 
of common shares in 2016, as well as the impact of the current 
recession in Alberta and Saskatchewan on loan growth and credit 
quality within those provinces. 

Management expects CWB’s earnings growth and business 
diversification to benefit from expansion of existing client 
relationships and the attraction of new clients. Successful 
implementation of the new core banking system is expected to 
facilitate initiatives in support of these objectives over the medium 
term. This improved technology will enable CWB to benefit from 
a client-centric view of branch-based relationships and achieve 
further operational efficiencies. The new system will also support 

CWB’s application for transition to the Advanced Internal Ratings 
Based (AIRB) methodology for managing credit risk and calculating 
risk-weighted assets. A project plan has been finalized in support of 
CWB’s application, including an anticipated three-year time frame.  

Strong Loan and Deposit Growth with Strategic 
Diversification

Over the medium term, ongoing strong, balanced growth of both 
loans and funding sources remain important strategic objectives. 
Further geographic and business sector diversification within 
targeted segments of Canada’s commercial banking industry is 
the foundation of CWB’s strategic direction. CWB will continue to 
focus on prudent growth of secured loans that offer an appropriate 
return and acceptable risk profile. Loan growth within Alberta and 
Saskatchewan is expected to remain challenging due to the impact 
of the current recession. 

However, management expects to deliver solid overall loan growth 
at levels relatively consistent with recent performance, primarily 
based on higher relative contributions from non-oil producing 
provinces across CWB’s growing geographic footprint. A key strategic 
objective, supported by CWB’s investment in the new core banking 
system, is to increase the level of branch-raised deposits as this core 
source of funding is typically lower cost than non-branch-raised 
funding. Branch-raised deposit products, including business savings, 
cash management and bare trustee accounts, also represent tools 
which help clients conveniently manage their business and personal 
finances, and management considers growth within this category 
to demonstrate success in strengthening key, multi-product client 
relationships. 

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

21

investment to facilitate ongoing implementation of CWB’s strategic 
direction, as well as the low probability of meaningful short-term 
improvement in net interest margin, management expects CWB’s 
efficiency ratio to fluctuate at levels moderately higher than the 
recent past. Management is committed to disciplined control of all 
discretionary expenses, and positive operating leverage is expected 
over the medium term.

Prudent Capital Management and Dividends

With a very strong capital position under the more conservative 
Standardized approach for calculating risk-weighted assets and 
a targeted dividend payout ratio of approximately 30%, CWB is 
well-positioned to continue to execute against our balanced growth 
strategy, strengthen shareholder returns and ensure resilience and 
flexibility through the maintenance of strong regulatory capital ratios. 
Ongoing support and development of each of CWB’s core businesses 
will remain a key priority, while potential strategic acquisitions will 
continue to be evaluated.

At October 31, 2016, CWB’s capital ratios were 9.2% CET1, 11.0% 
Tier 1 and 13.1% total capital. Changes in CWB’s capital ratios 
from last year mainly reflect an increase of approximately 70 basis 
points related to the issuance of $150 million of common shares on 
July 7, 2016. Higher Tier 1 and Total capital ratios compared to last 
year also reflect the issuance on March 31, 2016 of $140 million 
of non-cumulative 5-year rate reset First Preferred Shares Series 7 
(Non-Viability Contingent Capital), partially offset by the redemption 
of $300 million of subordinated debentures on November 30, 2015. 
Redemption of $105 million of CWB Capital Trust Securities Series 1 
(the “WesTS”) on December 31, 2016 is expected to reduce CWB’s 
Tier 1 and Total capital ratios by approximately 50 basis points.

Common share dividend increases are evaluated every quarter 
against the dividend payout ratio target of approximately 30%. 
The timing of future dividend increases will be influenced by capital 
requirements under the Standardized approach to support ongoing 
strong and balanced asset growth, as well as challenges related to 
persistent net interest margin pressure and ongoing macroeconomic 
uncertainty.

Further guidance related to management’s expectations for specific 
measures of financial performance, as well as related risk factors, is 
provided within the Outlook sections of this MD&A.

Net Interest Margin 

CWB expects efforts to optimize the overall cost of funds through 
targeted growth of lower-cost funding sources, along with selective, 
geographically diversified growth in higher yielding loan portfolios 
with an acceptable risk profile to mitigate the earnings impact of 
ongoing margin pressure over the medium term. However, in the 
near term, management expects these efforts to only partially offset 
the impacts of ongoing very low interest rates, competitive influences 
and a flat interest rate curve. As such, net interest margin pressure is 
expected to persist in 2017. 

Credit Quality

Overall credit quality is expected to reflect CWB’s secured lending 
business model, disciplined underwriting practices and proactive loan 
management. Gross impaired loans within Alberta have increased in 
most portfolios compared to last year as the operating environment 
has remained particularly challenging due to the current recession. 
CWB continues to work with affected clients, and management will 
continue to monitor the entire loan portfolio for signs of weakness 
resulting from the first and second order impacts of lower oil prices. 
CWB will also continue to closely observe developments within the 
residential housing sector, with a particular focus on markets where 
a combination of rapid price escalation and regulatory change 
could impact pricing and the level of future activity. Although CWB 
expects periodic increases in the balance of impaired loans across 
the portfolio, loss rates on impaired loans outside of oil and gas 
production lending are expected to be consistent with CWB’s prior 
experience, where write-offs have been low as a percentage of 
impaired loans. The 2017 provision for credit losses as a percentage 
of average loans is expected to fall below the unusual level of 38 
basis points experienced in 2016, within a range between 25 and 35 
basis points.  

Based on the results of stress tests simulating severe economic 
conditions in Alberta and Saskatchewan, in combination with very 
challenging economic conditions throughout the rest of CWB’s 
geographic footprint over a multi-year timeframe, management 
is confident CWB will continue to deliver positive earnings for 
shareholders while maintaining financial stability and a strong capital 
position. Stress test assumptions include severe credit losses, a 
persistent low interest rate environment and significantly slower loan 
growth to reflect lower assumed levels of economic activity, as well 
as increased competition for deposits and much higher levels of gross 
impaired loans that could combine to result in significant compression 
of net interest margin. 

Efficient Operations and Operating Leverage

A key priority for CWB is to deliver consistent increases in adjusted 
cash earnings per share through business growth and strategic in-
vestment while maintaining effective control of costs. CWB’s ongoing 
investment in people, technology and infrastructure is expected to 
contribute to long-term shareholder value through improved financial 
performance in future periods. In view of the level of necessary future 

Unless otherwise noted, the remainder of this MD&A refers to financial performance from, and the outlook for, Continuing Operations.

22

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual ReportNET INTEREST INCOME

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

Highlights of 2016

•  Net interest income (teb) increased 7% to a record $588.5 million 

primarily based on very strong 13% loan growth.

•  Net interest margin (teb) of 2.43% was down 13 basis points as 
the combined benefits of reduced deposit costs, lower average 
balances of cash and securities as a percentage of total assets, and 
beneficial changes in deposit mix were more than offset by lower 
asset yields. Of note, loan yields remained under pressure due to 
both the low interest rate environment and competitive factors.

Table 5 - Net Interest Income (teb)(1) 
($ thousands)

2016

2015

Average
Balance

Mix

Interest

Interest
Rate

Average
Balance

Mix

Interest

Interest 
Rate

Assets

Cash, securities and deposits with

regulated financial institutions

 $  2,719,327 

 11 %  $ 

36,352 

1.34 %  $  2,597,920 

 12 %  $ 

48,142 

1.85 %

Securities purchased under 

resale agreements

 131,891 

 1 

 620 

0.47 

 46,359 

 - 

 341 

0.74 

Loans

Personal

Business

Total interest bearing assets

Other assets

Total Assets

Liabilities

Deposits

Personal

 3,659,510 

 17,264,663 

 20,924,173 

 23,775,391 

 424,060 

 15 

 71 

 86 

 98 

 2 

 141,277 

 786,980 

 928,257 

 965,229 

 - 

3.86 

4.56 

4.44 

4.06 

0.00 

 3,027,366 

 15,470,444 

 18,497,810 

 21,142,089 

 339,097 

 14 

 72 

 86 

 98 

 2 

 119,358 

 736,009 

 855,367 

 903,850 

 - 

3.94 

4.76 

4.62 

4.28 

0.00 

 $  24,199,451 

 100 %  $ 

965,229 

3.99 %  $  21,481,186 

 100 %  $ 

903,850 

4.21 %

 $  12,489,741 

 52 %  $ 

231,429 

1.85 %  $  10,614,819 

 50 %  $ 

205,776 

1.94 %

Business and government

Other liabilities

Debt

Shareholders' equity

Non-controlling interests

 7,955,410 

 20,445,151 

 419,883 

 1,226,192 

 2,107,633 

 592 

 33 

 85 

 2 

 5 

 8 

 - 

 114,895 

 346,324 

 174 

 30,267 

 - 

 - 

1.46 

1.70 

0.04 

2.47 

0.00 

0.00 

 7,579,692 

 18,194,511 

 332,050 

 1,150,251 

 1,803,047 

 1,327 

 35 

 85 

 2 

 5 

 8 

 - 

 110,774 

 316,550 

 288 

 37,960 

 - 

 - 

Total Liabilities and Equity

 $  24,199,451 

 100 %  $ 

376,765 

1.56 %  $  21,481,186 

 100 %  $ 

354,798 

Total Assets/Net Interest Income  $  24,199,451 

 $ 

588,464 

2.43 %  $  21,481,186 

 $ 

549,052 

1.46 

1.74 

0.09 

3.30 

0.00 

0.00 

1.65 %

2.56 %

(1) See page 16 for a discussion of teb and other non-IFRS measures.

Net interest income (teb) increased 7% to reach a record $588.5 million 
driven by 12% growth in average interest-earning assets. The impact of 
strong 13% loan growth was partially offset by a 13 basis point reduction 
in net interest margin (teb) to 2.43%. 

The yield on CWB’s average loans fell by 18 basis points in 2016, and the 
yield on average cash, securities and deposits with regulated financial 
institutions was down 51 basis points. The latter change reflects both the 
lower interest rate environment and an increase in the proportion of cash

and debt securities held compared to higher yielding preferred shares and 
common equities. CWB has liquidated its holdings of common equities 
and has no plans to re-establish this portfolio. 

Through strong growth of branch-raised deposits, including 15% growth 
of targeted notice and demand deposits, CWB realized beneficial changes 
in deposit mix. However, average deposit costs fell only four basis points 
compared to the 18 basis point decline in loan yields mentioned above. 

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

23

Outlook for Net Interest Income and Net Interest Margin

CWB will maintain its strategic focus on mitigating the earnings 
impact of ongoing margin pressure through continued 
implementation of its balanced growth strategy. This strategy 
includes efforts to optimize the overall cost of funds through 
targeted growth of lower-cost funding sources, as well as selective, 
geographically diversified growth in higher yielding loan portfolios 
with an acceptable risk profile. Loan growth will continue to have 
a positive influence on net interest income, but the combination 
of the persistent very low interest rate environment, ongoing 
competition for both loans and deposits, and a relatively flat yield 
curve is expected to result in further pressure on net interest margin 
compared to the 2.43% level realized in 2016. Management 
expects to sustain positive momentum toward beneficial changes 
in deposit mix through strong growth in preferred types of branch-
raised deposits and ongoing development of new funding channels; 
however, 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, and/or an increase in the prime lending interest 
rate would benefit CWB’s net interest margin. CWB’s projections 
for 2017 assume no change in the prime rate. Competitive factors, 
particularly in certain business areas, are expected to result in 
continued downward pressure on loan pricing and upward pressure 
on overall deposit costs. Changes in average balances of cash and 
securities also have an impact on net interest margin, with lower 
average balances generally enhancing margin, and higher average 
balances having the opposite effect. Consistent with its liquidity risk 
appetite, CWB expects to maintain average balances of cash and 
securities at prudent levels, relatively consistent with 2016. 

NON-INTEREST INCOME

Highlights of 2016

•  Non-interest income of $72.7 million, up 7%.   

•  Non-interest income represented 11% of total revenues (teb), 

•  Strong growth in credit related income and lower net losses on 

unchanged from 2015. 

securities.

Table 6 - Non-interest Income
($ thousands)

Credit related

Wealth management

Retail services

Trust services

Losses on securities, net

Other(1)

Total Non-interest Income

Change from 2015

2016 

2015 

$

 $  

30,598 

 $  

27,855 

 $  

2,743 

14,021 

13,617 

 11,522 

(2,830)

 5,744 

14,448 

13,697 

10,816 

(4,324)

5,456 

(427)

(80)

706 

1,494 

288 

 $  

72,672 

 $  

67,948 

 $  

4,724 

%

 10%

 (3)

 (1)

 7 

 (35)

 5 

 7%

(1) Includes gains on loan portfolio sales, lease administration services, foreign exchange gains/losses, gains/losses on land, buildings and equipment disposals, and other miscellaneous non-interest revenues.

Non-interest income of $72.7 million was up 7% as the combined benefit 
of strong growth in credit related income, lower net losses on securities 
and higher trust services revenues more than offset slight decreases 
in wealth management income and fees for retail services. Growth in 
credit related income was consistent with strong lending activity. While 
market conditions remained persistently challenging in 2016, lower net 
losses on securities compared to last year reflect reduced equity market 
exposure following liquidation of CWB’s holdings of common equities 
and improved market conditions within the Canadian preferred share 
market this year. Management has no plans to re-establish the portfolio 
of common equities. ‘Other’ non-interest income mainly reflects gains on 
the sale of residential mortgages. 

Non-interest income as a percentage of total revenues (net interest 
income (teb) and non-interest income) was 11%, unchanged from 2015.

24

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report 
 
 
 
 
 
    
    
    
    
    
    
 
 
    
    
    
    
    
 
 
    
    
Outlook for Non-interest Income

Growth of non-interest income is expected to reflect the extension 
and deepening of CWB’s relationships with both new and existing 
clients. Increases are expected across most categories of non-interest 
income reflecting CWB’s continued focus on strong, high quality loan 
growth with associated fee income, as well as enhanced transactional 
capabilities in cash management and other retail services, including 
CWB’s branch-raised deposit franchise. 

CWB has liquidated its holdings of common equities and has no 
plans to re-establish this portfolio. In view of this change, and based 
on the current composition of the securities portfolio, net gains/losses 
on securities are not expected to contribute materially to non-interest 
income in 2017; however, the magnitude and timing of gains or 
losses are dependent on market factors that are difficult to predict. 

Continued solid growth is expected from Trust Services, resulting 
from ongoing business development. Management expects further 

increases in wealth management revenues to result from solid 
performance within CWB Wealth Management, including organic 
growth at McLean & Partners and Adroit, as well as the introduction 
of discretionary investment services to more CWB banking clients. 
Further development of CWB’s regional wealth management 
specialist channel is expected to improve CWB Wealth Management’s 
ability to attract new clients through enhanced delivery of value-
added financial and investment planning services. CWB’s branch-
based mutual fund dealer, CWF, is expected to perform well within 
this segment. Management expects CWF to leverage the introduction 
of proprietary CWB Core Funds and Onyx Portfolio Series mutual 
funds within CWB’s branch network in support of further growth in, 
and profitability of, assets under management. 

CWB maintains its long-term objective to diversify total revenues 
and will continue with initiatives to further develop and/or acquire 
additional sources of complementary non-interest income.  

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

25

NON-INTEREST EXPENSES, EFFICIENCY AND OPERATING LEVERAGE

Highlights of 2016

•  The efficiency ratio (teb) of 46.5% improved 30 basis points 

•  Operating leverage was positive 1%.

compared to 2015, primarily reflecting the benefit of total revenue 
growth and disciplined control of non-interest expenses.

Table 7 - Non-interest Expenses and Efficiency Ratio
($ thousands)

Salaries and Employee Benefits

Salaries

Employee benefits

Premises

Rent

Depreciation

Other

Equipment and Software

Depreciation

Other

General

Professional fees and services

Marketing and business development

Amortization of acquisition-related intangible assets

Regulatory costs

Banking charges

Postage and stationery

Travel

Loan-related credit reports

Community investment

Communications

Employee training

Capital and business taxes

Staff relations

General insurance

Parking

Acquisition-related

Employee recruitment

Other

2016

2015

$

Change from 2015

 $ 

171,332 

 $ 

160,352 

 $  

10,980 

 33,571 

 204,903 

 30,937 

 191,289 

 19,688 

 5,277 

 3,314 

 28,279 

 12,950 

 11,310 

 24,260 

 8,234 

 6,939 

 6,354 

 6,281 

 5,429 

 2,898 

 2,832 

 2,431 

 2,281 

 1,717 

 1,303 

 1,284 

 1,279 

 1,036 

 908 

 695 

 641 

 18,434 

 6,293 

 3,130 

 27,857 

 9,362 

 10,259 

 19,621 

 8,731 

 7,880 

 4,548 

 4,748 

 4,987 

 2,756 

 2,668 

 2,525 

 2,224 

 1,810 

 1,894 

 1,195 

 1,606 

 919 

 897 

 340 

 802 

 3,663 

 56,205 

 4,192 

 54,722 

2,634 

13,614 

1,254 

(1,016)

 184 

422 

3,588 

1,051 

4,639 

(497)

(941)

1,806 

1,533 

442 

142 

164 

(94)

57 

(93)

(591)

89 

(327)

117 

 11 

355 

(161)

(529)

1,483 

Total Non-interest Expenses

 $ 

313,647 

 $ 

293,489 

 $  

20,158 

Efficiency Ratio (teb)(1)(2)

46.5%

46.8%

(1) See page 16 for a discussion of non-IFRS measures.
(2) A decrease in this ratio reflects improved efficiency, while an increase reflects deterioration.
(3) bp – basis points.

26

%

 7%

 9 

 7 

 7 

 (16)

 6 

 2 

 38 

 10 

 24 

 (6)

 (12)

 40 

 32 

 9 

 5 

 6 

 (4)

 3 

 (5)

 (31)

 7 

 (20)

 13 

 1 

 104 

 (20)

 (13)

 3 

 7%

(30) bp(3)

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report 
 
    
    
    
    
 
 
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
 
 
    
    
    
    
Total non-interest expenses of $313.6 million were up 7%. The 7% 
increase in salary and benefit costs reflects the combined impact of 
acquisition-related increases in staffing, hiring activity in support of 
business growth and annual salary increments. CWB Maxium accounted 
for approximately 30% of the total increase in non-interest expenses. 
The net increase in full-time equivalent employees (FTEs) was modest 
at only 2% (38 FTEs) as the addition of more than 50 FTEs through 
acquisition was partially offset by the release of contract staff related 
to the core banking system project. Premises expense was relatively 
stable, up only 2% including depreciation. Ongoing investment in 
technology infrastructure necessary to position CWB for future growth 
also contributed to the increase in non-interest expenses. Equipment 
expenses increased 24%, including depreciation, primarily reflecting 
implementation of CWB’s new core banking system. 

Figure 1 – Number of Full-time Equivalent Staff  

Combined amortization and sustainment costs related to the new core 
banking system after implementation accounted for approximately 15% 
of the total increase in non-interest expenses. Growth of general non-
interest expenses was also moderate at 3%. Amortization of acquisition-
related intangible assets was $1.8 million higher due to the acquisition 
of CWB Maxium, and regulatory costs increased $1.5 million. Disciplined 
management of discretionary expenses partially offset these factors and 
small increases in other categories.  

The efficiency ratio (teb) of 46.5% improved 30 basis points compared 
to 2015, primarily reflecting the benefit of total revenue growth despite 
persistent net interest margin pressure and disciplined control of non-
interest expenses. Operating leverage for the year was positive 1%.

2,037* 
(+8%)

1,715 
(+8%)

2,094* 
(+3%)

1,788
(+4%)

1,885* 
(+5%)

1,583 
(+6%)

1,928
(+8%)

1,966
(+2%)

Continuing Operations

Discontinued Operations

*

Combined Operations

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

27

Outlook for Non-interest Expenses, Efficiency and Operating Leverage

A key priority for CWB is to deliver strong long-term growth in 
adjusted cash earnings per share through strategic investment while 
maintaining effective control of costs. CWB’s current investments in 
people, technology and infrastructure are expected to contribute to 
long-term shareholder value through improved financial performance 
in future periods. 

The major program to implement a new core banking system 
culminated with implementation of the system in the third quarter. 
The core banking and other technology investments are expected to 
provide considerable efficiencies in the future, including improved 
client relationship management capabilities and enhanced data 
management. While the beneficial impact of these efficiencies 
on CWB’s cost structure and revenues will be realized over time, 
combined amortization and sustainment costs related to the new 
core banking system are expected to add approximately $2.0 million 
to non-interest expenses on a quarterly basis compared to pre-
implementation levels. 

Certain technology investments, including the new core banking 
system, are also key requirements to facilitate an eventual transition 
to the AIRB methodology for managing credit risk and calculating 
risk-weighted assets. 

CWB opened its 42nd full-service branch through expansion 
of operations in Lloydminster, Saskatchewan during the third 
quarter. Additional opportunities to upgrade and expand branch 
infrastructure continue to be reviewed. 

Compliance with an increasing level of regulatory rules and oversight 
for all Canadian banks requires the investment of both time and 
resources. 

Anticipated growth in total revenues (teb) should largely offset the 
impact of increased investment necessary for effective execution of 
CWB’s balanced growth strategy over the medium term. However, 
in consideration of expense growth related to newly acquired 
businesses, ongoing investment in growth initiatives, including 
those discussed above, and expectations for constrained net interest 
margin in the absence of increases in the prime lending interest rate 
and/or sustained steepening of the yield curve, periods of negative 
operating leverage may occur over the short term. Management 
remains committed to disciplined management of all discretionary 
expenses based on total revenue growth, and has targeted positive 
operating leverage over a medium-term, three- to five-year time 
horizon.

ACQUISITION-RELATED FAIR VALUE CHANGES

The tax deductible change in the estimated fair value of contingent 
consideration since the acquisition of CWB Maxium was $7.9 million. 
The change in fair value reflects the expected value of the contingent 
consideration after evaluating actual earnings to date and the estimated 

probability-weighted future operating performance of this newly acquired 
business. Quarterly fair value changes similar in magnitude through 
the remainder of the three-year earn out period would approximate an 
amount near the maximum available through the purchase agreement.   

INCOME TAXES

The 2016 effective income tax rate (teb) was 27.3% compared to 
26.3% in 2015 while the effective tax rate before the teb adjustment 
was 26.4% compared to 24.9% last year. The 20% increase in Alberta’s 
provincial corporate income tax rate, from 10% to 12%, effective July 
1, 2015, reduced CWB’s common shareholders’ net income in 2016 
by approximately 1.4% ($3.6 million). The tax increase did not have a 
material impact on common shareholders’ net income in fiscal 2015, as 
the increase was offset by the related recovery on the deferred tax asset 
revaluation in that year. 

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. 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.

Outlook for Income Taxes

CWB’s expected income tax rate (teb) for fiscal 2017 is approximately 27.5%, relatively unchanged from 2016.

28

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual ReportRESULTS OF DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS

Table 8 summarizes the components of net income from Discontinued Operations included in the consolidated statements of income, which are 
attributable entirely to CWB common shareholders. 

Table 8 - Results of Discontinued Operations
($ thousands)

Non-interest income (teb)

Non-interest income

Insurance revenues, net

Trust services

Losses on securities, net

Total revenue (teb)

Non-interest expenses

Net income before income taxes

Income taxes (teb)

Net Income from Discontinued Operations before Net Gain on Sale

Net gain on sale, after tax

Common Shareholders’ Net Income from Discontinued Operations

Earnings Per Common Share

Basic

Diluted

Adjusted cash

 $ 

 $ 

2016  

2015  

$

 $ 

-   $  

3,875   $  

(3,875)

%

 (100)%

Change from 2015

 -      

 -      

 -      

 -      

 -      

 -      

 -      

 -      

 -      

-   $  

-   $  

 -      

 -      

9,416      

3,221      

(283)     

16,229      

11,104      

5,125      

1,296      

3,829      

(9,416)

(3,221)

283 

(16,229)

(11,104)

(5,125)

(1,296)

(3,829)

107,808      

(107,808)

 (100)

 (100)

 (100)

 (100)

 (100)

 (100)

 (100)

 (100)

 (100)

111,637   $  

(111,637)

 (100)%

1.38   $  

1.38      

1.38      

(1.38)

(1.38)

(1.38)

 (100)%

 (100)

 (100)

Common shareholders’ net income from Discontinued Operations for 2016 was nil compared to $1.38 per common share in 2015. Earnings from 
Discontinued Operations last year were comprised of $1.33 per common share of divestiture gains and six months of operating contributions from the 
divested businesses.

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

29

 
 
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

Comprehensive income is comprised of net income and other 
comprehensive income (OCI), all net of income taxes. CWB’s OCI includes 
changes in unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale cash and 
securities, and fair value changes for derivative instruments designated 
as cash flow hedges. The 2016 decrease in comprehensive income 
was primarily driven by 42% ($137.3 million) lower net income from 
Combined Operations, primarily reflecting $107.8 million of divestiture 
gains from Discontinued Operations realized last year, as well as lower net 
income from Continuing Operations this year, mainly due to the credit 
performance of oil and gas production loans. 

Table 9 - Comprehensive Income
($ thousands)

Net Income from Continuing Operations

Common Shareholders' Net Income from Discontinued Operations

Net Income from Combined Operations

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

Reclassification to net income, net of tax

Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), net of tax

Total Comprehensive Income

These changes were partially offset by a $56.4 million increase in OCI. 
Changes in OCI included an $80.4 million increase in fair value of 
available-for-sale securities, partially offset by a $16.0 million decrease 
in fair value of derivatives designated as cash flow hedges. While the 
dollar amount of CWB’s investment in available-for-sale securities, 
which includes preferred shares and included common shares prior to 
liquidation of these holdings in 2016, is relatively small in relation to total 
liquid assets, these investments can lead to fluctuations in OCI. 

2016

2015

Change from 
2015

 $  

189,334 

 $  

214,965 

 $  

(25,631)

- 

189,334 

111,637 

326,602 

(111,637)

(137,268)

20,799 

2,158 

22,957 

(8,157)

113 

(8,044)

14,913 

(59,593)

6,612 

(52,981)

7,846 

3,640 

11,486 

(41,495)

80,392 

(4,454)

75,938 

(16,003)

(3,527)

(19,530)

56,408 

 $  

204,247 

 $  

285,107 

 $  

(80,860)

CASH AND SECURITIES

Cash, securities and securities purchased under resale agreements 
totalled $2,792 million at October 31, 2016, compared to $2,995 million 
one year ago. The cash and securities portfolio is mainly comprised of 
high-quality debt instruments and a comparatively smaller component 
of preferred shares. The portfolio previously included a small portfolio 
of common shares; however, CWB liquidated these holdings in 2016 
and has no plans to re-establish this portfolio. Securities are not held for 
trading purposes and, where applicable, are typically held until maturity. 

Fluctuations in the value of securities are generally attributed to changes 
in interest rates and movements in market credit spreads. Volatility in 
equity markets caused fluctuations in the value of common shares during 
the period in which CWB held these investments. Total net unrealized 
losses before tax recorded on the balance sheet at October 31, 2016 
were $44.7 million, compared to $76.2 million last year. Net unrealized 
gains or losses are reflected in Table 10.

Table 10 - Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Available-for-Sale Cash and Securities
($ thousands)

Deposits with Regulated Financial Institutions

 $ 

890,597 

 $  

(81)

 $ 

890,516 

 $ 

413,145 

 $ 

(377)

 $ 

412,768 

As at October 31, 2016

As at October 31, 2015

Amortized
Cost

Net 
Unrealized
Gains (Losses)

Fair
Value

Amortized
Cost

Net
Unrealized
Gains (Losses)

Fair
Value

Securities Issued or Guaranteed by

Canada

A province or municipality

Other Debt Securities

Preferred Shares

Common Shares

Total

30

 1,142,651 

 291,814 

 153,126 

 165,606 

 - 

147 

133 

1,522 

(46,405)

- 

 1,142,798 

 1,373,476 

 291,947 

 154,648 

 119,201 

 - 

 626,300 

 347,322 

 198,325 

 81,528 

 (8,614)

 (5,396)

 (1,023)

 (54,457)

 (6,349)

 1,364,862 

 620,904 

 346,299 

 143,868 

 75,179 

 $  2,643,794 

 $  

(44,684)

 $  2,599,110 

 $  3,040,096 

 $ 

(76,216)

$ 

2,963,880

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report 
 
 
 
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
See Table 28 – 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 2017, is included in the Liquidity Management 
discussion of this MD&A.

The decrease in unrealized losses on securities compared to 2015 
primarily relates to the impact of changes in interest rates on pricing 
within the debt securities market, improvements in market conditions 
within the Canadian preferred share market and liquidation of CWB’s 
common share holdings. The level of unrealized losses on securities is 
regularly reviewed. Impairment charges on debt securities and preferred 
shares are reflected in net gains/losses on securities only in the case of an 
issuer credit event. CWB has no direct investment in any non-Canadian 
sovereign debt or other securities issued outside of Canada or the United 
States (U.S.. 

Net losses on securities of $2.8 million were realized in 2016, compared 
to net losses of $4.3 million in the prior year. While market conditions 
remained persistently challenging in 2016, lower net losses on securities 
compared to last year reflect reduced equity market exposure following 
liquidation of CWB’s holdings of common equities and certain preferred 
shares, as well as improved market conditions within the Canadian 
preferred share market this year.  

LOANS

Highlights of 2016 

•  Very strong, well-diversified 13% loan growth, largely driven by 
very strong performance in British Columbia and Ontario, with 
contributions led by general commercial loans, real estate project 
loans and personal loans and mortgages.

•  Double-digit loan growth achieved in 26 of the past 27 years 

(the exception being 2009 when loan growth during the global 
financial crisis was 7%).

Table 11 - Outstanding Loans by Portfolio
($ millions)

General commercial loans

Real estate project loans

Personal loans and mortgages

Commercial mortgages

Equipment financing and leasing

Corporate lending

Oil and gas production loans

Total Outstanding Loans

Change from 2015

2016 

2015 

$

 $ 

4,808 

 $ 

3,805 

 $  

1,003 

 4,181 

 4,064 

 3,999 

 3,693 

 1,099 

 221 

 3,266 

 3,318 

 3,839 

 3,772 

 1,257 

 313 

915 

746 

160 

(79)

(158)

(92)

%

26%

28 

22 

4 

(2)

(13)

(29)

 $ 

22,065 

 $ 

19,570 

 $  

2,495 

13%

Total loans before the allowance for credit losses increased 13% to reach 
$22,065 million at year end. Acquisition of the CWB Franchise Finance 
portfolio contributed approximately $350 million for the year, and net 
originations within CWB Maxium were approximately $300 million, both 
primarily within the general commercial category. Securitized assets 
originated by the CWB Maxium team prior to March 1, 2016, were not 
included as part of the acquisition; however, CWB holds renewal rights 
related to these assets. General commercial loans made the greatest 
contribution to annual loan growth measured in dollars, as shown in 
Table 11, followed by very strong performance in real estate project loans, 
and personal loans and mortgages. Of note, loan growth within BC and 
Ontario accounted for more than 90% of the increase from 2015.  

General commercial loans increased 26%. Based on industry sector, as 
shown in Table 12, general commercial loans include categories such 
as manufacturing, finance and insurance, and wholesale and retail 
trade. CWB’s promising pipeline of new commercial loans, including 
opportunities within CWB Maxium and CWB Franchise Finance, 

along with management’s ongoing efforts to emphasize the strategic 
relevance of this area to CWB’s funding diversification objectives, support 
expectations for strong relative growth in this portfolio over time. 

Growth in real estate project loans remained strong as CWB has 
continued to finance well-capitalized developers on the basis of sound 
loan structures and acceptable pre-sale/lease levels. Growth within 
this segment slowed late in the year, in a manner consistent with 
management’s expectations. Total exposure to real estate project loans 
remains within CWB’s established risk appetite.

Personal loans and mortgages include CWB’s broker-sourced residential 
mortgage business, Optimum, lending activity in banking branches, 
and CWB’s participation in the National Housing Act Mortgage-backed 
Securities (NHA MBS) program. Participation in the NHA MBS program 
contributed $391 million to growth in 2016 (2015 – nil). Net of the sale 
of three portfolios totalling $71 million, total loans of $2,283 million in 
Optimum represented net growth of 18% ($355 million). Net growth 

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

31

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
 
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
was mainly driven by alternative mortgages secured via conventional 
residential first mortgages carrying a weighted average loan-to-value 
ratio at initiation of approximately 69%. The book value of alternative 
mortgages represented approximately 92% (2015 – 88%) of Optimum’s 
total portfolio. Ontario continues to account for over half of Optimum’s 
new originations. At approximately 49% of the total, Ontario represents 
the largest geographic exposure by province within Optimum’s portfolio, 
followed by Alberta at 23% and BC at 17%. The average size of 
Optimum mortgages originated in 2016 was approximately $308,000, 
and the average size of mortgages outstanding at October 31, 2016 
was approximately $241,000. Management remains committed to the 
ongoing development of this business, including further expansion in 
Ontario, as it continues to produce solid returns while maintaining an 
acceptable risk profile. 

The balance of loans in equipment financing and leasing includes the 
branch-based heavy equipment financing business and $1,720 million 
of small- and mid-ticket leases within National Leasing. Strong, double-
digit growth of 10% within National Leasing reflects the company’s solid 
market position and coast-to-coast footprint. Areas outside of Western 
Canada account for more than half of National Leasing’s leasing exposure 
by geography. The balance of branch-based equipment finance loans 
contracted, primarily due to the challenging operating environment 
within Alberta. 

Corporate lending represents a diversified portfolio that is centrally 
sourced and administered through designated lending groups. Corporate 
lending includes participation in select syndications structured and 
led primarily by the major Canadian banks, but excludes participation 
in various other syndicated facilities sourced through relationships 
developed at CWB branches. Syndicated facilities sourced in branches 

Figure 2 - Outstanding Loans by Portfolio

(October 31, 2015 in brackets)

1% (2%)

5% (6%)

Oil & Gas Production

Corporate Loans

19% (17%) 

Real Estate Project Loans

are primarily real estate project loans, and oil and gas production loans, 
which are both included as separate classifications in Table 11. 

Management took a conservative approach to resolving positions within 
CWB’s small portfolio of oil and gas production loans in 2016. The 
balance of loans in this category now represents 1% of the total portfolio 
(2015 – 2%).  

The mix of CWB’s portfolio (see Figure 2) shifted in a manner generally 
consistent with management’s strategic diversification objectives during 
the year. Strong growth in general commercial loans, real estate project 
loans, and personal loans and mortgages combined with a more modest 
increase in commercial mortgages and contractions in corporate lending, 
equipment financing and leasing, and oil and gas production loans to 
result in decreased concentrations in the latter four categories. The lower 
balance of outstanding loans within equipment financing and leasing 
primarily reflects the impact of the current recession in Alberta. Alberta 
borrowers within this segment have been proactive in reducing the size of 
their fleets, with a resulting increase in early pay-outs.   

Based on the location of security (see Figure 3), Alberta and BC each 
represented 36% of total loans at year end, compared to 41% and 33%, 
respectively, in 2015. The material shift resulted from the combined 
impact of strong growth in Ontario related to contributions from CWB 
Franchise Finance, CWB Maxium, Optimum and National Leasing, strong 
growth in BC primarily driven by real estate project loans, and a slight net 
contraction of CWB’s portfolio in Alberta.

General Commercial Loans

Commercial Mortgages

22% (19%)

18% (20%)

18% (17%)

Personal Loans and Mortgages

Equipment Financing

17% (19%)

32

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual ReportOutlook for Loans

CWB will continue to support high-quality borrowers operating 
within targeted industry segments across Canada. Management 
will selectively pursue opportunities for prudent growth of secured 
loans that offer an appropriate return and acceptable risk profile. 
Growth in Canada’s domestic economy is expected to continue at 
a moderate pace in 2017. Continued economic strength in the U.S. 
and a lower Canadian dollar are expected to support an escalation 
of manufacturing and exporting activity in all provinces, especially 
BC and Ontario. Taken together, these two provinces now account 
for greater than half of CWB’s geographic exposure, and the current 
overall outlook for generating new business opportunities continues 
to be positive. Management believes ongoing strong overall loan 
growth at levels relatively consistent with CWB’s recent performance 
will be supported over the medium term through further geographic 
diversification and incremental market share gained from the 
combined positive influences of an expanded market presence and 
the effective execution of CWB’s strategic plan focused on targeted 
client solutions and superior customer service. 

The protracted period of low energy and other commodity prices 
poses a risk to the outlook for economic growth in Canada overall, 
and Alberta and Saskatchewan in particular. Loan growth across all 
portfolio segments within Alberta and Saskatchewan is expected 
to remain challenging in view of the current recession. CWB’s 
direct exposure to the energy industry is small relative to its overall 
portfolio at approximately 3% of total loans outstanding, including 
direct loans to oil and gas producers and lending to service-related 
companies. However, negative impacts on employment, in-migration, 
housing sector activity and consumer spending in the oil-producing 
provinces are apparent as a result of the material contraction in the 
level of overall capital expenditure within the energy industry, despite 
ongoing maintenance expenditures in the oil sands. 

Canadian residential real estate markets have been resilient 
and affordability in most geographic areas outside of certain 
neighbourhoods in Toronto and Vancouver remains within historical 
ranges, largely reflecting very low interest rates. Moderately reduced 
housing sector activity and softer pricing is apparent in Greater 
Vancouver, Alberta and Saskatchewan. Reduced activity is particularly 
apparent within higher-priced segments of the housing market. The 
combination of historically high price levels, sentiment related to 
potential economic headwinds caused by low energy prices, recent 
counter-cyclical measures undertaken by the federal government and 
tax changes within British Columbia could lead to further moderation 
of housing sector activity in these and other markets. Recent 
regulatory changes target both insured mortgages and mortgages 
funded through securitization, neither of which represents a core 
business focus for CWB. In isolation, management expects these 
changes will have no material impact to CWB’s outlook for residential 
mortgage originations.  

Potential risks that could have a material adverse impact on loan 
growth expectations include further material weakening of energy 
and other commodity prices compared to recent levels, a slowing 
rate of economic growth in the U.S., material changes to standing 
free trade agreements which could affect the outlook for Canadian 
exports, a significant and sustained deterioration in Canadian 
residential real estate prices, or a significant disruption in major 
global economies.

Diversification of Portfolio

Figure 3 - Geographical Distribution of Loans Based on Location of Security
(October 31, 2015 in brackets)

3% (3%)

4% (4%)

6% (7%)

Manitoba

Other

Saskatchewan

15% (12%)

Ontario

British Columbia

36% (33%)

Alberta

36% (41%)

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

33

Table 12 - Total Advances Based on Industry Sector(1)
(% at October 31)

Construction

Real estate operations

Consumer loans and residential mortgages(2)

Finance and insurance

Transportation and storage

Hotel/motel

Health and social services

Retail trade

Other services

Wholesale trade

Manufacturing

Agriculture

Oil and gas service

Logging/forestry

Oil and gas production

All other

Total

2016

2015

                 21 %

                 22 %

                 21 

                 21 

                 18 

                 16 

                   7 

                   6 

                   6 

                   7 

                   5 

                   4 

                   4 

                   4 

                   3 

                   2 

                   3 

                   2 

                   2 

                   2 

                   2 

                   2 

                   2 

                   2 

                   2 

                   3 

                   2 

                   2 

                   1 

                   2 

                   1 

                   3 

               100 %

               100 %

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

The loan portfolio is focused on areas of demonstrated lending expertise, 
while concentrations measured by geographic area and industry sector 
are managed within specified tolerance levels. The portfolio is well-
diversified with a mix of business and personal loans. Heavy equipment 
financing is primarily sourced 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 maintained centralized administration 
based in Alberta in 2016, and sourced residential mortgages throughout 
Western Canada and select regions of Ontario and Atlantic Canada 
through an established network of mortgage brokers.

Outlook for Diversification of Portfolio 

Strong loan growth this year was the result of significantly higher 
relative contributions from non-oil producing provinces across CWB’s 
growing geographic footprint and includes the impact of Optimum, 
National Leasing and CWB’s newly acquired businesses. Growth is 
expected across all lending sectors in 2017 with the exception of oil 
and gas production loans. Relatively stronger economic activity in 
BC and increased lending exposure in Ontario are expected to lead 
to comparatively faster growth in these areas. In combination with 
the impact of the current recession in Alberta, this may result in a 
further reduction to the relative concentration of CWB’s Alberta-
based lending exposures. Management has targeted higher net 
growth in areas such as general commercial loans, personal loans 
and mortgages, and equipment financing and leasing, compared 
to commercial mortgages and real estate project loans. Combined 
annual general commercial lending originations from CWB Maxium 
and CWB Franchise Finance are expected to exceed $500 million 
in fiscal 2017, and management expects CWB Maxium to surpass 
$1,000 million of total on-balance sheet loans and leases by 2019. 
Approximately 70 − 80% of the current business in both cases is 
outside of Western Canada. Originations within these new businesses 
are therefore expected to contribute both to strong growth in 
general commercial loans and further geographic diversification. 
Growth of personal loans and mortgages is expected to benefit from 

continued expansion of Optimum. Of note, Optimum expects to 
add an Ontario-based underwriting centre in 2017, making use of 
space within the CWB Maxium premises in Richmond Hill. Equipment 
financing and leasing exposures comprise CWB’s branch-based heavy 
equipment lending operations, a specialized underwriting centre 
which partners with the finance companies of original equipment 
manufacturers, National Leasing, and a portion of the business of 
CWB Maxium. Expectations for slower growth in real estate project 
loans compared to that achieved in 2016 reflect the combined 
impact of this portfolio’s relatively short duration and forecasted 
moderation in Canadian residential real estate activity, partly as a 
result of recent regulatory changes intended to constrain growth 
of the housing sector. Within the parameters of its established risk 
appetite, CWB will continue to finance well-capitalized developers on 
the basis of sound loan structures and acceptable pre-sale/lease levels 
as such opportunities arise. 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. CWB maintains 
its long-term objective to deliver further industry and geographic 
diversification, and management will continue with initiatives to 
develop and/or acquire complementary sources of high-quality 
growth. 

34

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual ReportCREDIT QUALITY

Highlights of 2016

•  Credit quality reflected strain within CWB’s small portfolio of oil 

and gas loans, and management’s proactive approach to resolving 
positions within this portfolio. Very low commodity prices early in 
2016 affected producer cash flows, and certain regulatory factors 
affected the liquidity of assets securing these exposures. Loss rates 
related to impaired loans within this portfolio exceeded those 
experienced during prior economic cycles and the overall level of 
provisioning was elevated compared to historical experience. 

•  Prior to reporting second quarter financial results, management 

announced revised expectations for the annual provision for credit 
losses of 35 – 45 basis points, compared to previous expectations 
of 18 – 23 basis points. 

•  The total provision for credit losses of $79.1 million represented 38 
basis points of average loans, consistent with revised expectations 
and up from 17 basis points in 2015.

Impaired Loans

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 current 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. 

As shown in the table below, gross impaired loans totalled $127.2 million 
and represented 0.58% of total loans, compared to $94.9 million or 
0.49% at the end of 2015. Total gross impaired loans within Alberta of 
$64.8 million increased from $41.7 million last year. Gross impaired loans

Table 13 - Change in Gross Impaired Loans
($ thousands)

•  The total provision for credit losses included cumulative provisions 
of $41.6 million recorded against oil and gas production loans. 

•  Credit quality as measured by the provision for credit losses was 

stable outside of the oil and gas production loan portfolio. 

•  Gross impaired loans increased 34% and represented 58 basis 

points as a percentage of total loans, compared to 49 basis points 
one year ago.

•  Growth in the collective allowance of 11% generally reflected the 

level of overall loan growth. 

•  The total allowance for credit losses as a percentage of gross 

impaired loans (coverage ratio) was 100%, down from 122% in 
2015.

within the oil and gas production lending portfolio totalled $16.9 million, 
compared to $22.8 million last year. The increase in write-offs this year 
primarily related to losses within this portfolio. Gross impaired loans from 
CWB’s equipment financing and leasing exposures were $40.2 million 
compared to $19.6 million last year. Approximately 52% of the impaired 
balance in this category is comprised of Alberta exposures, compared to 
24% last year. The ten largest accounts classified as impaired, measured 
by dollars outstanding, represented approximately 48% of total gross 
impaired loans at year end, down from 59%. New formations of impaired 
loans totalled $164.4 million, compared to $120.3 million last year. 

Gross impaired loans, beginning of period

 $  

94,905 

 $  

62,120 

 $  

32,785 

2016 

2015 

$

Change from 2015

164,386 

120,338 

44,048 

(61,619)

(70,460)

(71,744)

(15,809)

10,125 

(54,651)

 $  

127,212 

 $  

94,905 

 $  

32,307 

 34% 

%

 53% 

 37 

 (14)

 346 

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

 $  

61,397 

 $  

55,665 

 $  

5,732 

Total number of accounts classified as impaired(2)

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

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

232 

217 

0.58% 

117 

104 

0.49% 

115 

113 

 10% 

 98 

 109 

9 bp(4)

(1) Gross impaired loans includes foreclosed assets held for sale with a carrying value of $3,876 (2015 – $979). 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 points.

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 higher balance of gross impaired loans reflects 
the increase in new formations, partially offset by the success of ongoing 

loan realization efforts and work-out programs. Outside of the oil and 
gas portfolio, actual credit losses as a percentage of total loans continue 
to demonstrate the benefits of CWB’s secured lending practices and 
disciplined underwriting. 

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

35

 
 
 
 
 
 
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
 
 
 
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. An impaired loans report 
is reviewed quarterly by the Board Risk Committee. Please see the Risk 
Management section of this MD&A for further information. 

Outlook for Impaired Loans 

Gross impaired loans remain low as a percentage of total loans, with 
the current level of 0.58% comparing to a peak during the prior 
credit cycle of 1.68% in the second quarter of 2010. Partially due the 
extended period of economic weakness within Alberta, we expect 
periodic further increases in the balance of impaired loans across 
the portfolio; however, we anticipate loss rates on impaired loans 
outside of oil and gas production lending to reflect the combined 
positive impact of our disciplined underwriting, secured lending 
practices and proactive account management, and to be more 
consistent with our prior experience. Ongoing loan management 
processes include assignment of experienced credit adjudicators 
to help branches and credit teams proactively identify and address 
higher risk loans. Gross impaired loans within Optimum are expected 

to increase in view of softer housing market conditions, particularly 
in Alberta. Management remains confident in the strength, diversity 
and underwriting structure of the overall loan portfolio and lending 
exposures will continue to be closely monitored. 

Potential risks that could have a material adverse impact on loan 
growth expectations include further material weakening of energy 
and other commodity prices compared to recent levels, a slowing 
rate of economic growth in the U.S., material changes to standing 
free trade agreements which could affect the outlook for Canadian 
exports, a significant and sustained deterioration in Canadian 
residential real estate prices, or a significant disruption in major 
global economies.

Allowance for Credit Losses

Current estimates of expected write-offs for existing loans classified as 
impaired are reflected in the specific provisions for credit losses, which 
totalled $16.3 million at year end, compared to $15.8 million a year 
earlier. Estimates are established through detailed analyses of both the 
overall quality and ultimate marketability of the security held against each

Table 14 - Allowance for Credit Losses
($ thousands)

Specific Allowance

Equipment financing

Energy

Real estate

Commercial

Consumer and personal

Collective Allowance

Total

Represented by:

Loans

impaired account. The year-over-year change in the allowance for credit 
losses split between the specific allowance by category of impaired loans 
and the collective allowance for credit risk is provided in Table 14.

2016
Opening
Balance

Provision
for Credit
Losses

  Write-Offs,
net of

  Recoveries(1)

 $  

4,346 

 $  

19,904 

 $  

(14,687)

 $  

9,300 

1,770 

128 

262 

15,806 

99,613 

41,558 

4,026 

1,726 

571 

67,785 

11,330 

(48,715)

(2,807)

(484)

(629)

(67,322)

- 

2016
Ending
Balance

9,563 

2,143 

2,989 

1,370 

204 

16,269 

110,943 

 $  

115,419 

 $  

79,115 

 $  

(67,322)

 $  

127,212 

Committed but undrawn credit exposures(2)

Total

(1) Recoveries in 2016 totalled $3,138.
(2) The collective allowance for credit losses related to committed but undrawn credit exposures is included in Other Liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets.

 $  

103,788 

23,424 

 $  

127,212 

Allowances for credit losses are maintained to absorb both identified 
and unidentified losses in the loan portfolio and, at October 31, 2016, 
consisted of $16.3 million (2015 – $15.8 million) of specific allowances 
and $110.9 million (2015 – $99.6 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 

36

allowance 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.

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report 
 
 
 
    
    
    
 
  
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
    
    
    
    
Growth in the collective allowance of 11% generally reflected the level of 
overall loan growth. The total allowance for credit losses as a percentage 
of gross impaired loans (coverage ratio) was 100%, down from 122% in 
2015.

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 composition and 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. 

Outlook for Allowance for Credit Losses

Specific allowances will continue to be determined on an account-by-
account basis and reviewed at least quarterly. Lower levels of specific 
allowances are expected in strong economic times and higher levels 
of specific allowances in weaker economic times. As such, the level 
of specific allowances may increase as a result of relative economic 
weakness within the oil exporting provinces in Western Canada. The

collective allowance is expected to fluctuate as a result of portfolio 
growth and normal progress through the credit cycle. 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.

Provision for Credit Losses

The 2016 provision for credit losses of $79.1 million increased 155%, 
primarily due to $41.6 million of specific provisions related to oil and gas 
production loans. Significantly higher provisioning within the oil and gas 
portfolio resulted from the impact of persistently low and volatile energy 
commodity prices on producer cash flows, as well as the influence of 
regulatory factors on the liquidity of assets securing these exposures. 

The provision for credit losses represented 38 basis points of average 
loans in 2016 (see Table 15), up 21 basis points from the previous year. 
Net new specific provisions represented 32 basis points of average loans, 
compared to 12 basis points in 2015. CWB has a long history of strong 

credit quality and low loan losses, both of which compare very favourably 
to the Canadian banking industry. Of the 32 basis points of net new 
specific provisions this year, approximately 20 basis points related to 
oil and gas production loans. Approximately 99% of CWB’s portfolio 
is comprised of non-oil and gas loans, and this portion accounted for 
approximately 12 basis points of net new specific provisions this year, 
consistent with 2015. Increases to the collective allowance comprised 
the remainder of the total provision. Macroeconomic and other external 
factors that may impact core geographic regions and/or industry sectors 
in which CWB customers operate are continually analyzed.  

Table 15 - Provision for Credit Losses
($ thousands)

Provision for credit losses(1)

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

2016

 0.38 %

 0.32 

2015

 0.17 %

 0.12 

2014

0.15%

0.07

2013

 0.19 % 

 0.13 

2012

 0.19 % 

 0.14 

Collective allowance

Coverage ratio(3)

 $ 

110,943 

 $ 

99,613 

 $ 

90,075 

 $ 

76,217 

 $ 

67,344 

 100 % 

 122 % 

 154 % 

 134 % 

 122 % 

(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

Credit quality is expected to continue to reflect CWB’s secured 
lending business model and disciplined underwriting processes.  
Based on CWB’s current economic outlook, management’s 
assessment of the overall quality of the portfolio and its underlying 
security, and the adequacy of the collective allowance for credit 
losses, management expects the provision for credit losses to 
decrease moderately compared to 2016, and for loss rates on 
impaired loans outside of oil and gas production lending to be 
consistent with our prior experience. The 2017 provision as a 
percentage of average loans is expected to fall within a range of 

25 – 35 basis points. The assessment process is continuous and 
updated expectations are communicated no less than quarterly.

Potential risks that could have a material adverse impact on credit 
quality expectations include further material weakening of energy 
and other commodity prices compared to recent levels, a slowing 
rate of economic growth in the U.S., material changes to standing 
free trade agreements which could affect the outlook for Canadian 
exports, a significant and sustained deterioration in Canadian 
residential real estate prices, or a significant disruption in major 
global economies.

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

37

DEPOSITS

Highlights of 2016

•  Strong branch-raised deposit growth of 12%, including very 
strong 15% growth of targeted notice and demand deposits.

•  Branch-raised deposits were 55% of total deposits, up from 54% 

in 2015. 

•  Capital markets deposits were reduced to 9% of total deposits 

by source (2015 – 10%), while broker deposits were unchanged 
at 36% reflecting current deposit pricing advantages in the latter 
funding market as compared to the former.  

Table 16 - 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

2016
Total

 $ 

34,681 

 $ 

3,866,441 

 $ 

9,322,580 

 $  13,223,702 

 761,523 

 3,031,090 

 - 

 - 

 2,317,038 

 1,861,200 

 6,109,651 

 1,861,200 

% of
Total

 62 %

 29 

 9 

 $ 

796,204 

 $ 

6,897,531 

 $  13,500,818 

 $  21,194,553 

 100 %

4%

32%

64%

100%

Demand

Notice

Term

2015
Total

 $ 

33,129 

 $ 

3,188,276 

 $ 

8,195,216 

 $  11,416,621 

 590,411 

 2,907,597 

 - 

 - 

 2,431,917 

 2,018,861 

 5,929,925 

 2,018,861 

% of
Total

 59 %

 31 

 10 

 $ 

623,540 

 $ 

6,095,873 

 $  12,645,994 

 $  19,365,407 

 100 %

3%

32%

65%

100%

Total deposits of $21,195 million increased 9% over 2015 reflecting 16% 
growth in personal deposits, which include those issued through the 
deposit broker network, and 3% growth in business and government

deposits, partially offset by an 8% decrease in capital markets deposits 
outstanding.

Table 17 - Deposits by Source
(as a percentage of total deposits at October 31)

Branches

Deposit brokers

Capital markets

Total

2016

 55 %

 36 

 9 

 100 %

2015

 54 %

 36 

 10 

 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's deposit taking franchise. 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 sources of funding. The importance of growing 
these funding sources increased under the Basel III rules governing 
liquidity implemented 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 CWB'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, 2016 totalled $324 million, a 
9% decrease compared to a year earlier. Management has elected to 
continue to emphasize client retention over growth within this channel as 
pricing competition from new and existing market participants continues 

to be intense. Valiant’s deposit taking franchise provides an additional 
channel to raise insured deposits through CWB branches, and is separate 
from Valiant’s stock transfer business which was sold last year. 

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 12% in 2016, while the 
demand and notice component within branch-raised deposits increased 
by a very strong 15%. Notice deposits raised within CWT accounted for 
a material portion of this growth. Demand and notice deposits, which 
include lower-cost funding sources, comprised 36% of total deposits 
at year end, up from 35% in the previous year. Branch-raised deposits 
comprised 55% of total deposits, up from 54% in 2015. The level of 
growth in demand and notice deposits reflects ongoing execution of 

38

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report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 debt capital markets. Insured deposits raised through 
deposit brokers remain an efficient source of funding. Although these 
funds are subject to commissions, this cost is countered by a reduced 
dependence on a more extensive branch network and the benefit of 
generating insured fixed term retail deposits over a wide geographic base. 

Additional sources of funding in 2016 included $734 million from the 
securitization of equipment leases (2015 – $371 million), maintenance of 
CWB’s bearer deposit note program, issuance of $250 million of senior 
deposit notes in the capital markets (2015 – $300 million), and whole 
loan sales of $71 million (2015 – $29 million) of residential mortgages. 

Outlook for Deposits and Funding

The strategic focus to increase branch-raised deposits will continue, 
with particular emphasis on the demand and notice component, 
which is often lower cost and provides associated transactional fee 
income. Various strategic initiatives, which include the offering of 
enhanced cash management products and a competitive business 
savings account, are also intended to further augment growth of 
desired branch-raised funding. CWB’s growing market presence, 
which includes the expansion of full-service branches, also supports 
objectives to generate branch-raised deposits. The successful launch 
of CWB’s new core banking system has facilitated a client-centric 
view of branch-based relationships, and is expected to enhance 
the effectiveness of efforts to build core funding sources. CWB will 
re-establish CDF as an effective channel for funding growth through 
a planned strategic brand repositioning in 2017. The deposit broker 

network remains an efficient source for raising insured fixed term 
retail deposits and has proven to be a reliable and effective 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 will continue to utilize 
securitization channels for a portion of its funding requirements, 
provided that both related costs and the regulatory capital impact 
remain satisfactory. CWB commenced securitization of residential 
mortgages in 2016 through the NHA MBS program, and expects to 
initiate participation in the Canada Mortgage Bond (CMB) Program 
in 2017. 

OTHER ASSETS AND OTHER LIABILITIES

Other assets at October 31, 2016 totalled $469 million (2015 – $369 
million). The amount of goodwill and intangible assets recorded on the 
balance sheet at October 31, 2016 was $85 million (2015 – $44 million) 
and $149 million (2015 – $106 million), respectively. The increase in 
goodwill primarily relates to the acquisition of CWB Maxium. Higher

intangible assets relate to both investment in CWB’s core banking system 
and the CWB Maxium acquisition.

Other liabilities totalled $417 million at October 31, 2016 (2015 – $374 
million).

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

39

LIQUIDITY MANAGEMENT

Highlights of 2016

•  Maintained a prudent liquidity position and conservative 

investment profile.

• 

Initial utilization of CWB’s NHA MBS allocation for liquidity 
purposes.  

•  Maintained compliance with OSFI’s Liquidity Adequacy 

•  CWB liquidated its holdings of common equities in 2016 and has 

Requirement Guideline.

no plans to re-establish this portfolio.

A schedule outlining the consolidated securities portfolio at October 31, 
2016 is provided in Note 5 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, and 
other marketable securities; 

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

•  maintaining a pool of high-quality liquid assets;

•  comprehensive liquidity scenario stress testing;

•  monitoring the quality of the cash and securities portfolio;

•  specific investment criteria and procedures are in place;

•  monitoring liability diversification and maturity profile;

•  regular review, monitoring and approval of investment policies is 

completed by CWB’s Asset Liability Committee (ALCo); and,

•  quarterly reports on the composition of the portfolio are provided to 

the Board Risk Committee. The Board Risk Committee annually reviews 
and approves investment policies.

•  monitoring deposit behaviour; 

•  maintaining access to deposit and capital market funding sources; and, 

•  monitoring microeconomic and macroeconomic factors and early 

warning indicators.

Table 18 - High-quality Liquid Assets
($ thousands)

2016

2015

Change 
from 2015

Cash and non-interest bearing deposits with financial institutions

 $ 

11,490 

 $ 

23,949 

 $  

(12,459)

Interest bearing deposits with regulated financial institutions

Cheques and other items in transit

Total Cash Resources

 890,516 

 18,050 

 920,056 

 412,768 

 6,705 

 443,422 

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

 420,108 

 33,007 

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

 1,014,637 

 1,952,759 

Other debt securities

Common shares(1)

Securities purchased under resale agreements

 141,094 

 - 

 163,318 

 346,299 

 33,707 

 - 

Total Securities Purchased Under Resale Agreements and Marketable Securities

 1,739,157 

 2,365,772 

477,748 

11,345 

476,634 

387,101 

(938,122)

(205,205)

(33,707)

163,318 

(626,615)

Total Liquid Assets

Total Assets

Liquid Assets as a Percentage of Total Assets

Total Deposit Liabilities

 $ 

2,659,213 

 $ 

2,809,194 

 $  

(149,981)

 $  25,222,549 

 $  22,838,527 

 $   2,384,022 

 11 % 

 12 % 

(100) bp(2)

 $  21,194,553 

 $  19,365,407 

 $   1,829,146 

Liquid Assets as a Percentage of Total Deposit Liabilities

 13 % 

 15 % 

(200) bp(2)

(1) Represents the portion of the common share portfolio which supported compliance with the OSFI Liquidity Adequacy Requirements, effective January 1, 2015.
(2) bp - basis points.

As shown in Table 18, high-quality liquid assets, as defined by OSFI, 
comprised of cash, deposits, securities purchased (or sold) under resale 
agreements and marketable securities totalled $2,659 million at October 
31, 2016 (2015 – $2,809). High-quality liquid assets represented 11% 
(2015 – 12%) of total assets and 13% (2015 – 15%) of total deposit 
liabilities at year end.

The composition of total high-quality liquid assets supports ongoing 
compliance with the OSFI Liquidity Adequacy Requirements. Key changes 
in the composition of liquid assets at October 31, 2016 compared to the 
prior year generally reflect reduced duration of CWB’s holdings, including:

40

•  maturities within one year comprising 61% (2015 – 18%);

•  Government of Canada, provincial and municipal debt securities 

comprising 54% (2015 – 70%);

•  deposits with regulated financial institutions comprising 33% (2015 – 

15%); and,

•  other marketable securities comprising 5% with liquidation of 

common share holdings (2015 – 14%).

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
Additional sources of liquidity and funding in 2016 included $734 million 
from the securitization of equipment leases (2015 – $371 million), $391 
million of residential mortgages which represent utilization of CWB’s 
NHA MBS allocation, and $71 million (2015 – $29 million) of residential 
mortgages sold via whole loan sales. The primary source of incremental

new funding was branch-raised deposits supported by the issuance 
of personal fixed term deposits through the broker deposit market. A 
summary of all outstanding deposits by contractual maturity date is 
presented in Tables 19 and 20.

Table 19 - Deposit Maturities Within One Year
($ millions)

October 31, 2016

Demand deposits

Notice deposits

Deposits payable on a fixed date

Total

October 31, 2015 Total

Table 20 - Total Deposit Maturities
($ millions)

Within
1 Month

1 to 3
Months

Cumulative
3 Months
to 1 Year Within 1 Year

 $ 

796 

 $ 

 6,898 

 643 

 $ 

- 

 - 

 $ 

- 

 - 

 1,408 

 4,116 

796 

 6,898 

 6,167 

 $ 

 $ 

8,337 

 $ 

1,408 

 $ 

4,116 

 $ 

13,861 

7,327 

 $ 

893 

 $ 

4,739 

 $ 

12,959 

October 31, 2016

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

 $ 

796 

 $ 

 6,898 

 6,167 

 $ 

 - 

 - 

 $ 

 - 

 - 

 $ 

 - 

 - 

 $ 

 - 

 - 

 3,515 

 1,554 

 1,008 

 1,257 

Total

 $ 

13,861 

 $ 

 3,515 

 $ 

 1,554 

 $ 

 1,008 

 $ 

 1,257 

 $ 

 $ 

Total

 796 

 6,898 

 13,501 

 $ 

 21,195 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

October 31, 2015 Total

 $ 

12,959 

 $ 

 3,582 

 $ 

 1,369 

 $ 

 726 

 $ 

 729 

 $ 

 - 

 $ 

 19,365 

A breakdown of deposits by source is provided in Table 17. 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. Deposits raised through deposit brokers remain an 
effective incremental funding source. Senior and bearer deposit notes 
raised in the capital markets provide a further source of funding and 
liquidity. 

Table 21 - Subordinated Debentures Outstanding
($ thousands)

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 Table 21.

Interest
Rate

3.463%(1)

5.571%(2)

4.389%(3)

Total

 Maturity 
 Date 

 Earliest Date 
 Redeemable 
 by CWB at Par 

As at 
October 31 
2016 

As at 
October 31 
2015 

 December 17, 2024 

 December 17, 2019 

 $ 

250,000 

 $ 

250,000 

 March 21, 2022 

 March 22, 2017 

 75,000 

 November 30, 2020 

 November 30, 2015 

 - 

 75,000 

 300,000 

 $ 

325,000 

 $ 

625,000 

(1) 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 3-month Canadian dollar CDOR rate plus 160 basis points.
(2) These conventional debentures have a 15-year term with a fixed interest rate for the first 10 years. Thereafter, the interest rate will be reset quarterly at the Canadian dollar CDOR 90-day Bankers’ Acceptance rate plus 180 basis 

points.

(3) These conventional debentures 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 193 basis 

points. These debentures were fully redeemed at par on November 30, 2015.

Outlook for Liquidity Management 

Internal methodologies for managing liquidity risk are continuously 
refined. CWB utilizes comprehensive stress testing to manage, 
measure and monitor liquidity risk to ensure a prudent approach. 
CWB will maintain prudent liquidity levels in 2017 while maintaining 

compliance with the OSFI Liquidity Adequacy Guideline. 
Management has initiated a multi-year program to upgrade CWB’s 
treasury infrastructure, with expected benefits related to all aspects 
of liquidity and asset/liability management. 

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

41

CAPITAL MANAGEMENT

Highlights of 2016

•  Very strong Basel III common equity Tier 1, Tier 1 and total capital 

adequacy ratios of 9.2%, 11.0% and 13.1%, respectively.

• 

Implementation of initiatives which resulted in lower overall capital 
requirements for CWB’s existing pool of securitized leases.

•  Redemption of $300 million of 4.389% subordinated debentures 

•  Cash dividends of $0.92 per share paid to common shareholders, 

in November 2015. 

up 7%.

• 

Issuance of $140 million of non-viability contingent capital (NVCC) 
preferred shares Series 7 in March 2016. 

•  Very conservative Basel III leverage ratio of 8.6%, compared to the 

regulatory minimum of 3%.  

• 

Issuance of $150 million of common shares in July 2016. 

Subsequent Highlights

•  On December 31, 2016, CWB will redeem through CWB Capital 
Trust all $105 million outstanding 6.199% Trust Capital Securities 
(the WesTS) at par plus accrued interest. The redemption will 
result in an approximate 50 basis point reduction to CWB’s Tier 1 
and total capital ratios; however, CWB’s capital ratios will remain 
strong. 

Capital is managed in accordance with policies and plans that are 
regularly reviewed and approved by the Board Risk Committee. 
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 establish target 
capital levels deemed prudent to effectively manage risks, including 
potential capital shocks from unexpected macroeconomic and/or CWB-
specific events.

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 overall profitability, earnings growth, 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. 

• 

In November 2016, the Board of Directors declared a quarterly 
cash dividend of $0.23 per common share, unchanged from the 
prior quarter and the dividend declared last year. The Board also 
declared a cash dividend of $0.275 per Series 5 Preferred Share, 
and a cash dividend of $0.390625 per Series 7 Preferred Share.

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). 

CWB’s minimum Basel III regulatory capital ratios, including a 250 
basis point capital conservation buffer, are 7.0% CET1, 8.5% Tier 1 
and 10.5% total capital, and a 3.0% leverage ratio. The Basel III rules 
provide for transitional adjustments whereby certain aspects of the 
new rules are 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 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. 

CWB complied with all internal and external capital requirements in 
2016.

42

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report 
Table 22 - Capital Structure and Basel III Regulatory Ratios at Year End
($ thousands)

As at
October 31
2016

As at
October 31
2015

 $  1,863,264 
 2,233,364 
 2,669,334 

 $ 1,636,718 
 1,866,873 
 2,439,022 

 9.2 % 

 8.5 %

 11.0 

 13.1 

 8.6 

 9.7 

 12.7 

 7.9 

Changes in CWB’s Tier 1 and total capital ratios reflect the common 
share issuance, as well as the issuance of $140 million of NVCC preferred 
shares, partially offset by capital invested in support of acquisitions, and, 
within total capital, the redemption of $300 million outstanding 4.389% 
subordinated debentures.

Regulatory capital, net of deductions

Common equity Tier 1
Tier 1
Total

Capital ratios

Common equity Tier 1

Tier 1

Total

Leverage ratio

The net change in CWB’s 2016 CET1 capital ratio reflects increases of 
approximately 70 basis points from the common share issuance, 15 basis 
points from initiatives which resulted in lower overall capital requirements 
for CWB’s existing pool of securitized leases and 10 basis points from 
the reduction of unrealized losses on available-for-sale securities. These 
increases were partially offset by approximately 40 basis points of capital 
invested in support of strategic acquisitions and 10 basis points absorbed 
by other items. 

Table 23 - 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 qualifying as Additional Tier 1 instruments

Directly issued capital instruments subject to phase-out from Additional Tier 1(2)(3)

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

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

Total capital

As at
October 31
2016

As at 
October 31
2015

 $  

749,653 

 $    566,721 

     1,354,966 

     1,261,678 

(32,710)

(55,667)

     2,071,909 

     1,772,732 

(208,645)

(136,014)

     1,863,264 

     1,636,718 

   265,000 

   125,000 

   105,000 

   105,000 

100 

155 

370,100 

230,155 

     2,233,364 

     1,866,873 

325,000 

472,500 

27 

110,943 

435,970 

36 

99,613 

572,149 

 $    2,669,334 

 $    2,439,022 

(1) CET1 deductions include goodwill and intangible assets, net of related tax.
(2) Basel III capital balances exclude 40% (2015 – 30%) of the balance of non-common equity instruments outstanding at January 1, 2013 that do not include non-viability contingent capital clauses. At October 31, 2016 and 2015, there 
was no exclusion from Tier 1 regulatory capital related to the WesTS (disclosed in deposits). At October 31, 2016, no outstanding subordinated debentures were excluded from regulatory capital (October 31, 2015 – $153 million). 
(3) CWB has obtained regulatory approval to proceed with the redemption of the $105,000 senior deposit note held by CWB Capital Trust and all outstanding WesTS on December 31, 2016, which will reduce both the Tier 1 and Total 

capital ratios by approximately 50 bp.

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

43

 
 
 
 
    
    
    
    
  
  
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
Table 24 - Risk-Weighted Assets
($ thousands)

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, 2016

As at October 31, 2015

Table 25 - Risk-Weighting Category
($ thousands)

Cash,
Securities
and Resale
Agreements

Loans

Other
Items

Total

Risk-
Weighted
Assets

As at October 31, 2016

 $ 

 141,166 

 $   14,553,429 

 $ 

 1,733,179 

 744,666 

 27,504 

 77,708 

 5,369 

 4,025,861 

 186,144 

 2,198,647 

 - 

 330,145 

 - 

 - 

 133,411 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 $   14,694,595 

 $   14,605,432 

 1,760,683 

 5,501 

 822,374 

 193,976 

 4,031,230 

 1,222,422 

 186,144 

 128,626 

 2,198,647 

 1,699,096 

 133,411 

 330,145 

 133,411 

 325,611 

 - 

 89,568 

 89,568 

 1,119,599 

 102,593 

 175,445 

 - 

 455,369 

 102,593 

 630,814 

 531,070 

 396,839 

 $ 

 2,757,791 

 $   21,677,476 

 $ 

 2,997,607 

 $   19,510,753 

 $ 

 $ 

 544,937 

 $   24,980,204 

 $   20,361,583 

 439,753 

 $   22,948,113 

 $   19,198,092 

0 %

20 %

35 %

50 %

75 %

As at October 31, 2016

150% and
100 % greater

Balance Weighted

 $ 

 49,272 
 1,733,179 
 163,327 

 $ 

 7,701 
 27,504 
 581,339 

 $ 

 $ 

 - 
 - 
 - 

 $ 138,756 
 - 
 - 

 - 
 - 
 - 

 $  14,427,569 
 - 
 77,708 

 $ 

 71,297   $ 14,694,595   $ 14,605,432 
 5,501 
 193,976 

 1,760,683 
 822,374 

 - 
 - 

 615,816 

 - 

 3,362,699 

 - 

 28,953 

 23,762 

 - 

 4,031,230 

 1,222,422 

 14,086 
 7,577 
 - 
 - 
 - 
 - 
 251,518 

 1,284 
 1,306 
 - 
 - 
-
-
 37,173 

 - 
 - 
 - 
 - 
-
-
 - 

 - 
 - 
 - 
 - 
-
-
 - 

 170,389 
 2,016,264 
 - 
 18,207 
-
-
 34,297 

 - 
 147,226 
 133,411 
 311,902 
-
 65,334 
 271,169 

 385 
 26,274 
 - 
 36 
 89,568 
 37,259 
 36,657 

 186,144 
 2,198,647 
 133,411 
 330,145 
 89,568 
 102,593 
 630,814 

 128,626 
 1,699,096 
 133,411 
 325,611 
 1,119,599 
 531,070 
 396,839 

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, 2016  $  2,834,775 

 $ 656,307 

 $  3,362,699 

 $ 138,756 

 $  2,268,110 

 $  15,458,081 

 $  261,476  $  24,980,204  $  20,361,583 

As at October 31, 2015

 $  2,681,408 

 $ 563,429 

 $  2,565,052 

 $   90,918 

 $  2,878,813 

 $  13,929,747 

 $  238,746  $  22,948,113  $  19,198,092 

44

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual ReportOutlook for Capital Management

CWB will maintain strong capital ratios under the Standardized 
approach for calculating risk-weighted assets, above its target 
thresholds and OSFI’s required minimums, and is well positioned 
to manage future business growth and unexpected events. Target 
capital ratios, including an appropriate capital buffer over the 
prescribed OSFI minimums, are reconfirmed regularly through CWB’s 
Regulatory Capital Plan. The ongoing retention of earnings, net 
of expected common and preferred share dividends, is expected 
to support capital requirements associated with the anticipated 
achievement of CWB’s medium-term performance target range for a 
strong common equity Tier 1 ratio. With a very conservative Basel III 
leverage ratio of 8.6% at October 31, 2016, CWB is not constrained 
by OSFI’s stated requirement for banks to maintain a minimum 
leverage ratio of 3%.

Based on the results of stress tests simulating severe economic 
conditions in Alberta and Saskatchewan, in combination with very 
challenging economic conditions throughout the rest of CWB’s 
geographic footprint over a multi-year time frame, management 
is confident CWB will continue to deliver positive earnings for 
shareholders while maintaining financial stability and a strong capital 
position. 

Stress test assumptions include severe credit losses, a persistent low 
interest rate environment and significantly slower loan growth to 
reflect lower assumed levels of economic activity, as well as increased 
competition for deposits and much higher levels of gross impaired 
loans that could combine to result in significant compression of net 
interest margin. 

The resilience of CWB’s capital position under the severe conditions 
assumed within its stress tests reflects both CWB’s commercial 
lending focus and its use of the Standardized approach for 
calculating risk-weighted assets. Under the Standardized approach, 
most of CWB’s commercial lending exposures are risk-weighted at 
100%. In view of the assumption for constrained loan growth in the 
stress scenario, incremental increases in risk-weighted assets mainly 
result from a 50% increase in risk weights on loans assumed to be 
in default. This increase is effectively offset by the runoff of CWB’s 
relatively short duration portfolio, resulting in stable regulatory capital 
ratios over a multi-year time frame.

Management continues to evaluate alternatives to deploy capital for 
the long-term benefit of CWB shareholders, which includes

a medium-term target range for the common share dividend 
payout ratio of approximately 30% and the potential for strategic 
acquisitions. 

AIRB Transition Plan

A project plan has been finalized in support of CWB’s application 
for transition to an AIRB methodology for managing credit risk and 
calculating risk-weighted assets, including an anticipated three-year 
time frame. CWB’s new core banking system is a critical component 
for a number of requirements necessary for AIRB compliance, 
including the collection of certain types of data. The AIRB approach 
will put CWB on more equal footing with its competition. It will 
add risk sensitivity to CWB’s framework for capital management, 
increase risk quantification processes, improve risk-based pricing 
capabilities and economic capital estimations, and enhance CWB’s 
ability to comply with new accounting standards. These improved risk 
management capabilities will better equip CWB to target business 
segments that generate the most attractive risk-adjusted returns and 
allocate resources accordingly.

CWB’s AIRB transition project is separated into several discrete 
phases, including: establishment of formalized project governance; 
creation of models including data collection, development, validation, 
deployment, operationalization and use test; commencement of 
model validation; implementation of risk-weighted asset calculator; 
and, submission of final application to OSFI.  

In 2016, management commenced development of an enhanced 
enterprise data warehouse to serve as a repository for the required 
data. Development, validation and deployment of AIRB models for 
Optimum, National Leasing and branch-based residential mortgages 
was also undertaken, with initiation of a pilot phase of model use 
underway for Optimum and branch-based residential mortgages. 
Management expects all models to be developed and deployed with 
operational testing underway by the end of 2017.

Readers are cautioned that CWB’s move to the AIRB approach is 
dependent on regulatory approval with the potential impact also 
dependent upon future changes in both the Standardized and/or 
AIRB approaches. Both approaches are currently under review by the 
Basel Committee. 

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 
revenues, expenses, gains and losses related to the same.

Financial instrument assets include cash resources, securities, securities 
purchased under resale agreements, 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. 

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 non-interest 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.

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

45

  
Table 26 - Derivative Financial Instruments
($ thousands)

Notional Amounts

Interest rate contracts designated as accounting hedges(1)

Equity swaps designated as accounting hedges(2)

Equity swaps not designated as accounting hedges(3)

Foreign exchange contracts(4)

Total

2016

2015

 $  3,698,000 

 $ 

 2,805,000 

 20,117 

 3,628 

 19,860 

 3,024 

 124,056 

 233,129 

 $ 

 3,845,801 

 $ 

 3,061,013 

(1) Interest rate contracts are used as hedging devices to manage interest rate risk. The outstanding contracts mature between November 2016 and September 2021.
(2) Equity swaps designated as hedges mature between June 2017 and June 2019. Equity swaps are used to reduce the earnings volatility from restricted share units linked to CWB’s common share price. 
(3) Equity swaps not designated as hedges mature between June and December 2017. Equity swaps are used to reduce the earnings volatility from deferred share units linked to CWB’s common share price.
(4) U.S. dollar foreign exchange contracts are used from time to time to manage the difference between U.S. dollar assets and liabilities. Forward foreign exchange contracts outstanding mature between November 2016 and April 2017.

The active use of interest rate contracts remains an integral component 
to manage the interest rate gap position. The increase in the volume of 
outstanding contracts (measured by the notional amount) reflects normal 
course management of interest rate risk. 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 
Risk Committee no less than annually.

ACQUISITIONS AND DIVESTITURES

On March 1, 2016, CWB acquired the non-securitized lending assets and 
other net business assets, including key employees, of Maxium Financial 
Services Inc. and Desante Financial Services Inc., now referred to as 
“CWB Maxium Financial” (CWB Maxium). CWB Maxium provides loans, 
equipment leases and structured financing solutions to more than 35,000 
clients, mainly in Ontario. Specialized financing solutions are primarily 
provided in the areas of health care, golf, transportation, real estate, 
and general corporate financing. Securitized assets of approximately 
$1,000 million that were originated prior to March 1, 2016 were not 
included in the transaction; however, CWB holds rights of renewal 
related to these assets. The maximum total consideration is $120 million. 
The acquisition was funded at closing with 1,250,312 common shares 
valued at $26 million and $20 million in cash. Remaining consideration 
consists of contingent payments to the vendors that could total up to 
$71 million, with an estimated fair value at the acquisition date of $16 
million. Contingent payment instalments will be made annually with 
determination of the total amount payable based on CWB Maxium’s 
cumulative business performance over a 36-month purchase price 
adjustment period. Up to 50% of the total contingent consideration may 
be settled with CWB shares at the vendors’ option, provided the average 
share price over the 20 days preceding issuance exceeds $30.00, with the 
remainder to be paid in cash. Full disclosure of the accounting treatment 

OFF-BALANCE SHEET 

of the transaction is provided in Note 3 of the audited consolidated 
financial statements. Other than the contingent consideration payable to 
the vendors, there were no other contingent liabilities or commitments 
arising from the acquisition.

On July 1, 2016, CWB acquired GE Capital’s Canadian Franchise Finance 
platform, now referred to as “CWB Franchise Finance”. The business 
provides financing across Canada to a diverse group of established 
companies in the franchised hospitality and restaurant industries. The 
acquisition included key employees to support CWB’s continued strategic 
commercial banking growth and geographic expansion. The balance of 
loans acquired was approximately $350 million. Financial consideration 
was comprised of cash and no goodwill or intangible assets were 
included in the purchase structure.

The sales of CWB’s property and casualty insurance subsidiary, Canadian 
Direct Insurance (CDI), and the stock transfer business of its subsidiary, 
Valiant Trust Company, closed effective May 1, 2015. The transactions 
consisted of the sale of 100% of the shares of CDI as well as the transfer 
of certain operating assets, systems and employees that supported the 
stock transfer business.

Off-balance sheet items include assets under administration and assets 
under management. Total assets under administration, which are 
comprised of trust assets under administration, third-party leases under 
administration, and mortgages under service agreements, totalled 
$10,689 million at October 31, 2016, compared to $9,294 million one 
year ago. 

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.

Assets under management held within Adroit and McLean & Partners 
were $1,924 million at year end, compared to $1,883 million last year. 

46

CWB Financial Group 2016 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 27. In general, CWB’s performance reflects a consistent growth 
trend, although the second quarter contains three fewer revenue-earning 
days, or two fewer days during leap years. Results from Combined 
Operations for the third quarter of 2015 reflect the impact of divestiture 
gains. Results from Continuing Operations in the second and third 
quarters of 2016 reflect the credit performance of oil and gas production 
loans.

Quarterly financial results were subject to some fluctuation due to 
exposure to property and casualty insurance prior to the divestiture 
of Canadian Direct Insurance, completed on May 1, 2015. Insurance 
operations, which were primarily reflected in non-interest income within 
the results of Discontinued and Combined Operations, were subject to 
seasonal weather conditions, cyclical patterns of the industry and natural 
catastrophes. 

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, 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.

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

47

Table 27 - Quarterly Financial Highlights(1)
($ thousands, except per share amounts)

2016

2015

Q4

Q3

Q2

Q1

Q4

Q3

Q2

Q1

Results from Continuing Operations

Net interest income (teb)

 $  149,704 

 $  149,547 

 $  145,106 

 $  144,107 

 $  141,096 

 $  140,503 

 $  133,064 

 $  134,389 

Less teb adjustment

Net interest income

Non-interest income

Total revenues (teb)

Total revenues

 579 

 676 

 754 

 1,231 

 1,377 

 1,280 

 1,455 

 1,468 

 149,125 

 148,871 

 144,352 

 142,876 

 139,719 

 139,223 

 131,609 

 132,921 

 19,127 

 19,541 

 19,378 

 14,626 

 17,949 

 13,269 

 18,435 

 18,295 

 168,831 

 169,088 

 164,484 

 158,733 

 159,045 

 153,772 

 151,499 

 152,684 

 168,252 

 168,412 

 163,730 

 157,502 

 157,668 

 152,492 

 150,044 

 151,216 

Pre-tax, pre-provision income (teb)

 89,497 

 92,360 

 87,628 

 84,358 

 84,378 

 80,397 

 81,174 

 82,110 

Common shareholders' net income

 47,834 

 45,582 

 32,213 

 52,132 

 52,969 

 51,170 

 51,520 

 52,405 

Earnings per common share

Basic

Diluted

Adjusted cash

Return on common

shareholders' equity

Adjusted return on common

shareholders' equity

Return on average total assets

Efficiency ratio (teb)

Efficiency ratio

Net interest margin (teb)

Net interest margin

Provision for credit losses as

 0.54 

 0.54 

 0.59 

 0.55 

 0.55 

 0.60 

 0.40 

 0.40 

 0.41 

 0.65 

 0.65 

 0.66 

 0.66 

 0.66 

 0.67 

 0.64 

 0.64 

 0.65 

 0.64 

 0.64 

 0.65 

 0.65 

 0.65 

 0.66 

 9.3 %

 9.4 %

 7.1 %

 11.5 %

 11.9 %

 11.7 %

 13.1 %

 13.1 %

 10.1 

 0.76 

 47.0 

 47.2 

 2.36 

 2.35 

 10.3 

 0.73 

 45.4 

 45.6 

 2.40 

 2.39 

 7.4 

 0.55 

 46.7 

 46.9 

 2.47 

 2.45 

 11.7 

 0.90 

 46.9 

 47.2 

 2.48 

 2.46 

 12.0 

 0.94 

 46.9 

 47.4 

 2.49 

 2.47 

 11.9 

 0.94 

 47.7 

 48.1 

 2.57 

 2.55 

 13.3 

 1.00 

 46.4 

 46.9 

 2.57 

 2.54 

 13.4 

 1.01 

 46.2 

 46.7 

 2.59 

 2.56 

a percentage of average loans

 0.24 

 0.32 

 0.78 

 0.18 

 0.18 

 0.17 

 0.17 

 0.16 

Results from Combined Operations

Net interest income (teb)

Non-interest income

 $  149,704 

 $  149,547 

 $  145,106 

 $  144,107 

 $  141,096 

 $  140,503 

 $  134,886 

 $  136,442 

 19,127 

 19,541 

 19,378 

 14,626 

 17,949 

 13,269 

 25,362 

 23,722 

Net gain on sale of businesses, after tax

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 169 

 107,639 

 - 

 - 

Total revenues (teb)

Total revenues

 168,831 

 169,088 

 164,484 

 158,733 

 159,214 

 261,411 

 160,248 

 160,164 

 168,252 

 168,412 

 163,730 

 157,502 

 157,837 

 260,131 

 158,598 

 158,478 

Common shareholders' net income

 47,834 

 45,582 

 32,213 

 52,132 

 53,138 

 158,809 

 53,545 

 54,209 

Earnings per common share

Basic

Diluted

Adjusted cash

Return on common

shareholders' equity

Adjusted return on common

shareholders' equity

Return on average total assets

Results from Discontinued Operations

Total revenues (teb)

Total revenues

Common shareholders' net income

Earnings per common share

 $ 

Basic

Diluted

Adjusted cash

(1) See page 16 for a discussion of teb and non-IFRS measures.

48

 0.54 

 0.54 

 0.59 

 0.55 

 0.55 

 0.60 

 0.40 

 0.40 

 0.41 

 0.65 

 0.65 

 0.66 

 0.66 

 0.66 

 0.67 

 1.97 

 1.97 

 1.98 

 0.67 

 0.67 

 0.68 

 0.67 

 0.67 

 0.69 

 9.3 %

 9.4 %

 7.1 %

 11.5 %

 11.9 %

 36.3 %

 13.6 %

 13.5 %

 10.1 

 0.76 

 10.3 

 0.73 

 7.4 

 0.55 

 11.7 

 0.90 

 12.1 

 0.94 

 36.5 

 2.90 

 13.9 

 1.02 

 13.9 

 1.03 

 $ 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 $ 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 $ 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 $ 

 169 

 $  107,639 

 $ 

 8,749 

 $ 

 7,480 

 169 

 169 

 107,639 

 107,639 

 8,554 

 2,025 

 7,262 

 1,804 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 1.33 

 1.33 

 1.33 

 0.03 

 0.03 

 0.03 

 0.02 

 0.02 

 0.03 

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual ReportNet Interest Margin 

Fourth quarter net interest margin (teb) of 2.36% declined 13 basis 
points compared to last year primarily due to lower asset yields and 
slightly increased marginal funding costs, partially offset by favourable 
changes in deposit mix. Loan yields remained under pressure due to both 
the low interest rate environment and competitive factors. Net interest 
margin (teb) was down four basis points from the prior quarter reflecting 
similar factors, partially offset by the absence of the one-time impact of a 
change in methodology for the recognition of certain loan fees recorded 
last quarter. 

Efficient Operations and Positive Operating Leverage

The quarterly efficiency ratio (teb), which measures non-interest expenses 
as a percentage of total revenues (teb), excluding acquisition-related fair 
value changes, was 47.0%, relatively unchanged from the fourth quarter 
last year.  

Overview of Combined Operations
Q4 2016 vs. Q4 2015 and Q4 2016 vs. Q3 2016

The results of Combined Operations did not differ materially from 
Continuing Operations. 

ROE and ROA

The quarterly adjusted ROE and ROA were materially consistent with the 
results of Continuing Operations. 

FOURTH QUARTER OF 2016
Overview of Continuing Operations
Q4 2016 vs. Q4 2015

Core operating performance was strong based on 6% growth of pre-tax, 
pre-provision (PTPP) income to $89.5 million. Common shareholders’ 
net income of $47.8 million was down 10% from $53.0 million a year 
ago. Net interest income and non-interest income both increased 7%; 
however, the combined impact of moderate growth of non-interest 
expenses, increased provisions for credit losses, acquisition-related fair 
value changes and higher preferred share dividends resulted in lower 
earnings. Higher net interest income reflects the benefit of very strong 
13% loan growth, partially offset by a 13 basis point decrease in net 
interest margin (teb) to 2.36%. Increased non-interest income mainly 
reflects growth in credit related fees and trust services revenue, partially 
offset by a decrease in ‘other’ non-interest income. Increased non-interest 
expenses primarily relate to higher salaries and benefits reflecting the 
combined impact of acquisition-related increases in staffing, hiring activity 
in support of business growth and annual salary increments. The fourth 
quarter provision for credit losses was 24 basis points, compared to 18 
basis points last year. Of the provision this quarter, 13 basis points related 
to non-oil and gas loans, and 11 basis points comprised an increase in the 
collective allowance. The latter factor is consistent with expectations for 
the collective allowance to fluctuate as a result of portfolio growth and 
normal progress through the credit cycle. Provisions for direct oil and gas 
exposures were not material this quarter. Diluted earnings per common 
share of $0.54 and adjusted cash earnings per common share, which 
excludes the acquisition-related amortization of intangible assets and 
contingent consideration fair value changes, net of tax, of $0.59 declined 
18% and 12%, respectively. This reflects the factors discussed above, as 
well as the issuance of common shares this year.

Q4 2016 vs. Q3 2016

Common shareholders’ net income increased 5% mainly due to lower 
provisions for credit losses. Net interest income was relatively unchanged 
as 1% loan growth was offset by a four basis point decline in net interest 
margin (teb). Non-interest income was also relatively consistent with the 
prior quarter, as the positive impact of increased credit related and retail 
services fees was offset by lower ‘other’ non-interest income. Gains on 
the sale of residential mortgages led to elevated ‘other’ non-interest 
income last quarter. Non-interest expenses increased 3% primarily due to 
higher full-time salaries as certain previously capitalized salaries related 
to the new core banking system are now expensed. Diluted and adjusted 
cash earnings per common share were both down 2%. PTPP income was 
3% lower as total revenues were relatively unchanged while non-interest 
expenses increased 3%.

ROE and ROA

The quarterly adjusted return on common shareholders’ equity (ROE) 
of 10.1% decreased 190 basis points from a year earlier and was down 
from 10.3% in the prior quarter. Fourth quarter return on assets (ROA) 
was 0.76%, compared to 0.94% last year and 0.73% in the previous 
quarter. 

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

49

Financial Instruments Measured at Fair Value

Cash resources, securities, securities purchased under resale agreements, 
acquisition-related 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, 2016 CWB’s total allowance for credit losses was $127.2 
million (2015 – $115.4 million) which included specific allowances of 
$16.3 million (2015 – $15.8 million) and a collective allowance of $110.9 
million (2015 – $99.6 million). Additional information on the process 
and methodology for determining the allowance for credit losses can be 
found in the discussion of Credit Quality in this MD&A and in Note 8 to 
the consolidated financial statements. 

50

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual ReportTable 28 summarizes the significant financial assets and liabilities recorded on the consolidated balance sheets at fair value.

Table 28 - Valuation of Financial Instruments
($ thousands)

As at October 31, 2016

Financial Assets

Cash resources

Securities

Securities purchased under resale agreements

Loans

Derivative related

Total Financial Assets

Financial Liabilities(1)

Deposits

Debt

Other liability

Derivative related

Total Financial Liabilities

As at October 31, 2015

Financial Assets

Cash resources

Securities

Loans

Derivative related

Total Financial Assets

Financial Liabilities(1)

Deposits

Debt

Other liability

Derivative related

Total Financial Liabilities

Fair Value

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Valuation Technique

 - 

 - 

 - 

 $ 

 920,056 

 $ 

 45,426 

 $ 

 874,630 

 $ 

 1,708,594 

 322,509 

 1,386,085 

 163,318 

 22,376,753 

 10,370 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 163,318 

 - 

 22,376,753 

 10,370 

 - 

 $   25,179,091 

 $ 

 367,935 

 $ 

 2,434,403 

 $   22,376,753 

 $   21,281,835 

 $ 

 1,271,036 

 24,257 

 7,172 

 $   22,584,300 

 $ 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 $   21,281,835 

 $ 

 1,271,036 

- 

 - 

 - 

 24,257 

 7,172 

 - 

 $   22,560,043 

 $ 

 24,257 

Fair Value

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Valuation Technique

 $ 

 443,422 

 $ 

 27,939 

 $ 

 415,483 

 $ 

 2,551,112 

 219,041 

 2,332,071 

 - 

 - 

 19,889,076 

 23,245 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 19,889,076 

 23,245 

 - 

 $   22,906,855 

 $ 

 246,980 

 $ 

 2,770,799 

 $   19,889,076 

 $   19,457,102 

 $ 

 1,206,101 

 650 

 4,503 

 $   20,668,356 

 $ 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 $   19,457,102 

 $ 

 1,206,101 

 - 

 4,503 

 $   20,667,706 

 $ 

 - 

 - 

 650 

 - 

 650 

(1) The Level 3 financial liability at October 31, 2016 is related to the acquisition of CWB Maxium. At October 31, 2015, the Level 3 financial liability was comprised of contingent consideration related to a business sold in 2015.

Notes 2, 4, 5, 6, 11 and 27 to the consolidated financial statements provide additional information regarding these financial instruments.

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

51

CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND 
FINANCIAL STATEMENT PRESENTATION

New and amended accounting pronouncements issued by the 
International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) did not result in a 
change in CWB’s accounting policies during 2016. 

transition to IFRS 9. The transition project focuses on the three main 
areas of IFRS 9: classification and measurement, impairment, and hedge 
accounting.  IFRS 9 training for affected stakeholders has been and will 
continue to be delivered on an ongoing basis throughout the transition.  
The transition impact of IFRS 9 on CWB’s consolidated financial 
statements has not been determined. 

IFRS 16 – Leases

In January 2016, the IASB issued IFRS 16, which requires most leases 
to be recorded on the balance sheet. For lessees, most operating leases 
other than short-term or low-value leases will be capitalized, and will 
result in a balance sheet increase in lease assets and lease liabilities, and 
a decrease in operating lease expenses and an increase in financing 
costs on the income statement. The new standard will not impact 
lessor accounting beyond additional disclosures. The new standard is 
effective for CWB’s fiscal year beginning November 1, 2019 with early 
adoption permitted if "IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers" 
is applied. The impact on CWB of the new standard has not yet been 
determined.

IFRS 15 – Revenue from Contracts with Customers

The IASB has established principles for reporting about the nature, 
amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from 
an entity’s contracts with customers. The standard provides a single, 
principles-based model for revenue recognition to be applied to contracts 
with customers. The new standard does not apply to financial instruments 
or lease contracts, which fall in the scope of other IFRSs. 

In April 2016, the IASB issued amendments to IFRS 15, which clarify the 
underlying principles of IFRS 15 and provide additional transitional relief 
on initial application. These amendments are effective for CWB’s fiscal 
year beginning November 1, 2018. The impact on CWB of the new 
standard has not yet been determined.

IFRS 2 – Share-based Payment Transactions

In June 2016, the IASB issued amendments to IFRS 2, which clarify how 
to account for certain types of share-based payment transactions. These 
amendments are effective for CWB’s fiscal year beginning November 
1, 2018 and can be applied prospectively. The impact on CWB of these 
amendments has not yet been determined.

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, such as macro-hedging, may have an impact on 
CWB’s future consolidated financial statements.

FUTURE CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING POLICIES

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, if any, on the financial statements.  

IFRS 9 – Financial Instruments

In July 2014, the IASB issued the complete version of IFRS 9, which will 
replace IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement. 
IFRS 9 addresses classification and measurement of financial assets and 
liabilities, impairment and hedge accounting.

Additional guidance from regulatory bodies has been issued since 
the final release of IFRS 9.  In December 2015, the Basel Committee 
on Banking Supervision (BCBS) issued “Guidance on credit risk and 
accounting for expected credit losses” and, in June 2016, OSFI issued 
“IFRS 9 Financial Instruments and Disclosure”. OSFI’s guidance sets the 
Canadian expectations for IFRS 9 adoption and is consistent with the 
BCBS guidance.   

IFRS 9 specifies that financial assets be classified into one of three 
categories (amortized cost, fair value through profit or loss or fair 
value through other comprehensive income) based on the cash flow 
characteristics and the business model under which the assets are held.

The final standard also introduces a new “expected credit loss” (ECL) 
model for calculating impairment on all financial assets classified at 
amortized cost or fair value through comprehensive income, with the 
most significant impact being to loans. The new impairment model 
categorizes a financial asset into three stages based on changes in credit 
risk since inception.  Under stage one, if there has not been a significant 
increase in credit risk at the reporting date, the ECL will be measured 
and recognized at 12-month expected credit losses.  A financial asset 
will move to stage two if it has experienced a significant increase in 
credit risk since inception and recognition of lifetime expected losses is 
required.  When a financial asset is identified as credit impaired, it will 
move to stage three where interest income is recognized on the carrying 
amount of the asset, net of the impairment allowance.  A financial asset 
can move between stages depending on improvement or deterioration 
of credit risk. CWB plans to leverage models being developed for AIRB to 
satisfy IFRS 9 requirements.

IFRS 9 also introduces a new hedge accounting model that expands the 
scope of eligible hedged items and risks eligible for hedge accounting, 
and aligns hedge accounting more closely with risk management.

IFRS 9 will be mandatorily effective for CWB’s fiscal year beginning on 
November 1, 2018, and early adoption is permitted. In January 2015, 
OSFI determined that Domestic Systemically Important Banks (D-SIBs) 
should adopt IFRS 9 beginning November 1, 2017, while early adoption is 
permitted but not required for other federally regulated Canadian banks 
with October year ends, such as CWB. CWB plans to adopt IFRS 9 on 
November 1, 2018.

During 2015, CWB commenced its IFRS 9 transition project and 
established a formal project governance structure, including a Steering 
Committee, to monitor the progress and critical decisions during the 

52

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual ReportRISK MANAGEMENT 

Our Approach to Risk Management 

Maintenance of an integrated and disciplined approach to risk 
management is a key success factor for CWB. Our risk management 
framework guides us in prudent, balanced and measured risk-
taking aligned with CWB’s business strategy. The Enterprise Risk 
Management (ERM) group develops CWB’s risk metrics, risk appetite, 
risk policies and limits, and provides independent review and 
oversight across the enterprise on risk-related issues.

CWB's vision – to be seen as crucial to our clients’ futures – 
requires continuous consideration, understanding and responsible 
management of all key risks at both the strategic and operational 
levels. CWB’s core strategic objective to balance risk and reward 
requires each team member to make common-sense business 
decisions by assessing risk and reward trade-offs considering 
CWB’s strategy, risk appetite and regulatory/legal requirements. We 
consciously accept risks to add value for stakeholders and support 

Highlights of 2016 

Further enhancements to CWB’s risk management framework 
were undertaken in 2016 as part of the ongoing development and 
implementation of CWB’s risk management processes, including the 
following key initiatives:

•  Further enhanced CWB’s three lines of defence risk governance 

framework; 

•  Established an integrated risk management function as the second 
line of defence for structural market risk and operational risk, as 
well as for CWB's Internal Capital Adequacy Assessment Process 
(ICAAP) and stress testing under AIRB;

•  Established market risk metrics with corresponding risk appetite 

and limits for structural market risk exposures;

•  Monitored and reported structural market risk exposures against 

the risk appetite and limits, independent of the first line of 
defence;

• 

Initiated the multi-year project plan in support of application 
for transition to the AIRB approach for managing credit risk and 
calculating risk-weighted assets. Transition to the AIRB approach 
will enhance CWB’s competitive position and facilitate risk-based 
pricing, enable further optimization of capital allocation, and 
enhance CWB’s risk quantification and stress testing capabilities;

the responsible and efficient delivery of products and services 
provided those risks:

•  Are aligned with our strategic objectives;

•  Are thoroughly understood, measured and managed within the 

confines of well-communicated CWB risk tolerances, including the 
highest ethical standards; and, 

•  Serve the interests of stakeholders, including our clients, 

shareholders, creditors, employees, regulators and communities.

• 

Initiated development of certain AIRB models and AIRB-based 
stress testing capabilities for Optimum Mortgage, branch-based 
mortgage and National Leasing portfolios; 

•  Developed IFRS 9 models for Optimum Mortgage, branch-based 

mortgage and National Leasing portfolios;

•  Further developed an information services and data risk 

management platform and initiated an information services and 
data platform for the estimation of risk-weighted assets under the 
AIRB approach; and,  

•  Revised the mandate of, and re-named, CWB’s Credit Analytics 

Department as the Risk Data Aggregation, Analytics, and 
Reporting Group (RDAAR).

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

53

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 53 to 70 of this MD&A form an integral part of the audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended October 31, 2016.Outlook for Risk Management

With ongoing enhancement of CWB’s enterprise-wide risk 
management framework in 2017, ERM will contribute to further 
progress toward CWB’s eventual transition to the AIRB approach and 
enhancements to stress testing processes. 

Further development of an enhanced operational risk management 
framework consistent with industry best practices is underway. 

RISK MANAGEMENT OVERVIEW

Risk management processes are designed to complement CWB’s overall 
size, level of complexity, risk profile and philosophy regarding risk. 
CWB’s risk management philosophy emphasizes risk measurement, 
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, not all risks are 
within 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 risk mitigation strategies.

Risk Management Strengths 

Risk Management Challenges

•  Ongoing global macroeconomic volatility, especially the persistence of 
low oil prices and related economic challenges within parts of Western 
Canada;

• 

Increasing volume and complexity of regulatory requirements and 
expectations; and,

•  Capital requirements under the Standardized approach decoupled 

from the underlying economic risk. 

Risk Management Principles 

The following principles guide the management of risks across all 
operations and companies of CWB (enterprise-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 preventive and detection 
controls;

•  An enterprise-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;

•  The belief that every employee is accountable to understand the risks 

inherent in their respective day-to-day activities;

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

•  Strong risk culture with robust risk management framework which 

discussions;

addresses risks throughout CWB;

•  Low operational risk profile;

• 

In-depth knowledge of our clients; 

•  Secured lending business model;

•  Disciplined underwriting with demonstrated strength through multiple 

credit cycles;

• 

Increasing geographic diversification;

•  Low balance sheet leverage;

•  Low average duration of lending portfolios; and,

•  Relatively low exposure to economically sensitive retail lending 

portfolios.

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

•  Ongoing commitment to a three lines of defence risk governance 

framework with independent oversight and effective challenge from 
the second line. 

The mandate of CWB’s ERM function is to enhance existing processes 
and structure to help identify and appropriately mitigate risks on an 
enterprise-wide basis. The intent is to provide a suitable framework 
for CWB to properly balance risk and reward while ensuring risk 
management practices satisfy regulatory requirements.

54

CWB Financial Group 2016 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 enterprise-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. 

Figure 4 – Risk Management Framework

Figure 4 depicts the four main elements which comprise CWB's 
enterprise-wide risk management framework:

Risk Governance

Risk Appetite Framework

Principal Risks and Risk Management Processes

Strong Risk Culture

Risk Culture

Principal Risks

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 CWB and is emphasized by the actions of 
senior management and the Board. 

Figure 5 – Principal Risks

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

Figure 5 is a visual representation of CWB’s principal risk exposures by 
business line: 

CWB

Credit Risk
Market Risk
Capital Risk
Operational Risk

Business
and Personal
Banking

Trust
Services

Wealth
Management

Credit Risk
Operational Risk

Credit Risk
Operational Risk

Operational Risk

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

55

 
 
 
Reputational risk is also a principal risk, which arises as a consequence 
of not managing other risks effectively. There are three main subsets of 
operational risk: regulatory risk, people risk, and technology risk. Other 
types of operational risk include cybersecurity risk and reputation risk. 

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 based on both quantitative and qualitative inputs. 

Risk Appetite

Our Risk Appetite Framework consists of our Risk Appetite Statement, 
as well as all supporting key risk metrics and corporate policies and 
standards, including limits. Our risk appetite defines the amount of risk 
that CWB is willing to assume for all risk types, given our guiding risk 
management principles and capital capacity. Key attributes of CWB’s 
overall risk appetite include the following:

•  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 continuous commitment and focus on the achievement of high-

quality, sustainable long-term financial results;

•  A conservative risk culture that is prevalent throughout CWB, from the 

•  Targeted financial performance which supports maintenance of 

Board to senior management to front-line staff;

•  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;

•  A philosophy of only taking risks that are transparent and understood, 
and that can be measured, monitored and managed. Management 
strives to thoroughly understand the risks of the businesses in which 
CWB chooses to engage and has extensive knowledge and experience 
in CWB’s chosen lending sectors, key geographic regions and other 
complementary business areas;

investment grade credit ratings to allow for competitive access to 
funding;

•  Maintenance of effective policies, procedures, guidelines, compliance 
standards and controls, training and oversight to guide the business 
practices and risk-taking activities of all employees in support of CWB’s 
reputation, and adherence to all legal and regulatory obligations; and,

•  Risk Appetites for key risk types are established based on both 

quantitative and qualitative risk types by ERM as the second line of 
defence, endorsed by senior management and ultimately approved by 
the Board Risk Committee.

56

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual ReportCWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

57

Risk Management Governance StructureThe foundation of our enterprise-wide risk management framework is a governance framework which includes a robust committee structure and a comprehensive set of corporate policies and limits approved by the Board of Directors or its committees, as well assupporting corporate standards and operating guidelines. This enterprise-wide risk management framework is governed through a hierarchy of committees and individual responsibilities as outlined in Figure 6.Figure 6 – Enterprise-Wide Risk Management FrameworkChief ExecutiveOfficeGroupCredit RiskCommittee  CreditCapitalOperational• Regulatory• Technology• PeopleMarketLiquidityFunding GroupALCO GroupCapital RiskCommittee GroupOperationalRiskCommittee  GroupDisclosureCommittee   Board RiskCommittee Executive RiskCommittee  Board of DirectorsBoard AuditCommittee ReputationalBusiness andSupport Areas Enterprise RiskManagement (ERM) InternalAudit 1st Line of Defence 2nd Line of Defence 3rd Line of DefenceChief Risk OfficerBoard of Directors – Responsible for supervising management and the business of CWB. The Board, either directly or through its committees, is responsible for oversight in the following areas: strategic planning, risk appetite, identification and management of risk, capital management, promoting a culture of integrity, internal controls, evaluation of senior management and succession planning, public disclosure and corporate governance.Board Risk Committee – Assists the Board in fulfilling its oversight responsibilities in relation to CWB’s identification and management of risk, adherence to corporate risk management policies and procedures, and compliance with risk-related regulatory requirements. Prior to formation of this committee, its responsibilities were owned either by the full Board or other committees of the Board. The Board Risk Committee includes a loan adjudication panel. Board Audit Committee – Assists the Board in fulfilling its oversight responsibilities for the integrity of CWB’s financial reporting, effectiveness of CWB’s internal controls and the performance of its internal and external audit functions.Chief Executive Officer – Directly accountable to the Board for all of CWB’s risk-taking activities. The Chief Executive Officer is supported by the Executive Risk Committee and its subcommittees, as well as ERM.Chief Risk Officer – Directly accountable to the Chief Executive Officer. As head of ERM, the Chief Risk Officer is responsible for providing independent review and oversight of enterprise-wide risks and leadership on risk issues, developing and maintaining a risk management framework which includes key risk metrics and risk policies and fostering a strong risk culture across the enterprise. The Chief Risk Officer reports functionally to the Board Risk Committee.CWB’s risk management framework is anchored in the Three Lines of Defence approach to managing risk, which is fundamental to our operating model, 
as described in Table 29.

Table 29 – Three Lines of Defence

First Line

Business and Support Areas

Second Line

ERM

Third Line

Internal Audit

Own and manage all risks within their lines of 
business

Pursue suitable business opportunities within 
their established risk appetite and limits

Act within their delegated risk-taking authority 
as set out in established policies

Establish appropriate operating policies and 
internal control structures in accordance with 
the risk policies

Set key risk metrics on which risk appetite 
and limits are based; ERM establishes policies, 
processes and practices that address all 
significant risks across the enterprise

Provide independent assurance to the Audit 
Committee and the Board Risk Committee as to 
the effectiveness and appropriateness of (and 
adherence to) the risk framework

Independently assess, quantify, monitor, control 
and report all significant risk exposures against 
the risk appetite and limits

Independently reviews adherence to controls, 
policies, rules and regulations

Provide independent oversight, effective 
challenge and independent assessment of risk

Identifies operational weaknesses; recommends 
and tracks remediation actions

The following CWB oversight functions provide key support within the 
enterprise-wide risk management framework:

•  Regulatory Compliance – Establishes risk-based processes to actively 
manage known and emerging risks related to applicable regulatory 
requirements. The group is headed by the Chief Compliance Risk 
Officer (CCRO). Prior to August, 2016, the Chief Risk Officer fulfilled 
the responsibilities of the CCRO. 

•  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 
on finance related issues, tax and accounting related functions. The 
CFO reports functionally to the Audit Committee.

58

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual ReportExecutive Risk Committee – CWB’s senior risk committee provides risk oversight and governance at the highest levels of management. The Executive Risk Committee reviews and discusses significant risk issues and action plans that arise in executing the enterprise-wide strategy. The Committee is chaired by the Chief Risk Officer and membership includes the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer.Subcommittees of the Executive Risk Committee – The Executive Risk Committee and its sub-committees provide oversight of the processes whereby the risks assumed across the enterprise are identified, measured, monitored, held within delegated limits and reported in accordance with policy guidelines. They include:Group Credit Risk Committee – Approves loans within delegated limits and is responsible for ensuring that appropriate credit policies are in place.Group Asset Liability Committee (ALCo) – Responsible for the establishment and maintenance of operational policies and programs for liquidity management and control, funding sources, investments, foreign exchange risk, structural interest rate risk and derivatives risk. Group Capital Risk Committee – Responsible for the oversight of capital adequacy, CWB’s regulatory capital plan, ICAAP and stress testing.Group Operational Risk Committee – Reviews the group operational risk management framework, operational loss reporting and business continuity plans. Reviews action plans for mitigating and improving the management of operational risk. Responsible for the emerged/emerging risk identification processes.  Group Disclosure Committee – Supports CEO/Chief Financial Officer (CFO) certification over public disclosures. Responsible for reviewing CWB’s internal control over financial reports and disclosure controls and procedures to help ensure the accuracy, completeness and timeliness of related public disclosures.REPORT ON PRINCIPAL RISKS

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

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 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. 
CWB’s approach to managing credit risk has proven to be very effective, 
as demonstrated by CWB’s relatively stable long-term average annual 
provision for credit losses and customarily low write-offs measured as a 
percentage of total loans.

Refer to the Loans and Credit Quality sections of this MD&A for 
additional information. 

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

59

Risk GovernanceThe 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 originating business. Requests for credit approval beyond the lending limit of the CEO are referred to the Group Credit Risk Committee or the Board Risk Committee’s loan adjudication panel.Risk ManagementCWB is committed to a number of important principles to manage credit exposures, which include:• Oversight provided by the Board Risk Committee; • Delegated lending authorities that are clearly communicated to lenders and other personnel engaged in the credit granting process;• Credit policies, guidelines and directives which are communicated within all branches, 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 credit 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;• Ongoing development of credit analytics reporting to assess portfolio risks at a granular level;• Pricing of credits commensurate with risk to ensure an appropriate financial return;• Management of growth while maintaining the quality of loans;• Early recognition of problem accounts and immediate 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. A summary report of less than satisfactory accounts is reviewed on a quarterly basis by the Board Risk Committee.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 Risk Committee. 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 is targeted to small- and medium-sized 
businesses, 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 National Leasing’s representation across all 
provinces of Canada, residential mortgages underwritten and serviced by 
Optimum in select regions of Ontario and Atlantic Canada, participation 
in syndicated lending facilities primarily led by other Canadian banks, and 
increasingly through CWB Maxium and CWB Franchise Finance. 

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

60

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual ReportCredit Risk ConcentrationRisk 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 $100 million. CWB clients with larger borrowing requirements can be accommodated through loan syndications with other financial institutions.MARKET RISK

Market risk is the impact on earnings and economic value of equity resulting from changes in financial market variables such as interest rates 
and foreign exchange rates. CWB’s Market Risk is primarily comprised of structural interest rate risk on the balance sheet, and liquidity and 
funding risk. A smaller amount of market risk relates to investment risk in the relatively small securities portfolio, and foreign exchange.   

Risk Overview

Market risk arises when extending loans, taking deposits and making 
investments. The most material market risks for CWB are those related 
to changes in interest rates. CWB does not have a trading book; it 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 cash and securities portfolio is maintained 

that is primarily comprised of high-quality debt instruments, with some 
exposure to preferred shares. These instruments are subject to price 
fluctuations based on movements in interest rates and volatility in 
financial markets. CWB liquidated its holdings of common equities in 
2016 and has no plans to re-establish this portfolio. CWB has limited 
direct exposure to foreign exchange risk. 

Subcategories of Market Risk

Interest Rate Risk

Interest rate risk is the impact on earnings and economic value of equity resulting from changes in interest rates.  

Structural interest rate risk arises when changes in interest rates affect 
the cash flows, earnings and values of assets and liabilities. The objective 
of structural interest rate risk management is to maintain high-quality 
earnings, maximize sustainable product spreads and maintain an 
appropriate balance between earnings volatility and economic value 
volatility while keeping both within their respective risk appetite limits.

Structural Interest Rate Risk arises due to the duration mismatch between 
our assets and liabilities.  Adverse interest rate movements may cause a 
reduction in earnings; and/or a reduction in the economic value of CWB’s 
assets; and/or an increase in the economic value of CWB’s liabilities. 
Structural interest rate risk is primarily comprised of duration mismatch 
risk and product embedded option risk. Duration mismatch risk arises 
when there are differences in the scheduled maturity, repricing dates 
or reference rates of assets, liabilities and derivatives. The net duration 
mismatch, representing residual assets funded by common shareholders’ 
equity, is managed to a target profile through interest rate swaps and 
CWB’s cash and securities portfolio. Product embedded option risk arises 
when product features allow customers to alter scheduled maturity or 
repricing dates. Product embedded options include loan prepayment, 
deposit redemption privileges and committed rates on unadvanced 
mortgages.

Variation in market interest rates can affect net interest income by 
altering cash flows and spreads. Variation in market interest rates can 
also affect the economic value of a bank’s assets, liabilities, and off-
balance sheet (OBS) positions. Thus, the sensitivity of a bank’s economic 
value to fluctuations in interest rates is an important consideration of 
shareholders, management and regulators. The economic value of an 
instrument represents an assessment of the present value of its expected 
net cash flows, discounted to reflect market rates. By extension, the 
economic value of CWB’s equity can be viewed as the present value 

of CWB’s expected net cash flows, defined as the expected cash flows 
on interest-sensitive assets minus the expected cash flows on interest-
sensitive liabilities plus the expected net cash flows on OBS positions. 
In this sense, the economic value perspective reflects one view of the 
sensitivity of net worth to fluctuations in interest rates.

Management of structural interest rate risk is a balancing act between 
short-term income volatility and volatility in the long-term value of CWB’s 
equity. Treasury manages the economic value of the banking book to a 
“benchmark duration” which reflects this trade-off. Benchmark duration 
is recommended by Treasury and approved by ALCo. The benchmark 
duration considers an appropriate trade-off between:

•  earnings volatility and volatility in the economic value of CWB’s equity;

•  risk and return (e.g. increasing duration increases the exposure to 

rising interest rates, but also enables an interest income pick-up from a 
positively sloping yield curve); and,

•  expected interest rate movements. 

While management of the benchmark duration is the responsibility of the 
first line of defence (recommended by Treasury and approved by ALCo) 
and detailed in the operational policies, it is important that the resulting 
risk exposures stay within CWB’s risk appetite.  

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

61

Risk GovernanceMarket risk is managed in accordance with the approved market risk policy and the corresponding operational policies. As the first line of defence, Treasury owns and manages the market risk on a dailybasis. ALCo provides tactical and strategic direction and is responsible for ongoing oversight, and reviews and endorses the operational policies. Risk Metrics

CWB’s Interest Rate Risk Exposures 

Structural interest rate risk is measured using simulations, earnings 
sensitivity and economic value sensitivity analysis, stress testing and gap 
analysis, in addition to other traditional risk metrics.

•  Earnings at Risk - Earnings at risk (EaR) is defined as the potential 

reduction in net interest income due to adverse interest rate 
movements over a one-year horizon. It is measured both against 
stress scenarios historically observed (historical simulation or historical 
Value at Risk (VaR)) and standard parallel interest shocks (interest rate 
sensitivity). 

•  Economic Value of Equity at Risk - Economic value of equity at risk 
(EVaR) is defined as the potential reduction in economic value of 
CWB’s equity due to adverse interest rate movements. This is not an 
earnings measure, but rather a value measure; and it is also measured 
against both stress scenarios historically observed (historical simulation 
or historical VaR) and standard parallel interest shocks (interest rate 
sensitivity). 

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. This is supplemented by historical VaR for 
economic value of CWB’s equity, estimated by applying historical interest 
rate scenarios to interest sensitive assets and interest sensitive liabilities. 
These analyses are 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 after Treasury hedging 
activity. The interest rate gap is measured at least monthly. Note 26 to the 
consolidated financial statements shows the gap position at October 31, 
2016 for select time intervals.

The analysis in Note 26 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 3.5% of total assets 
at October 31, 2016, compared to negative 3.5% one year ago, while 
the one-month and under gap was 0.8%, compared to negative 1.5% a 
year earlier. 

The estimated sensitivity of net interest income to a change in interest 
rates is presented in Table 30. The amounts represent the estimated 
change in net interest income over the time period shown resulting from 
a one percentage point change in interest rates. The estimates are based 
on a number of assumptions and factors, which include:

•  A constant structure in the interest sensitive asset liability portfolio;

•  Floor levels for various deposit liabilities;

• 

Interest rate changes affecting interest sensitive assets and liabilities 
by proportionally the same amount and applied at the appropriate 
repricing dates; and,

•  No early redemptions.

62

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual ReportInterest rate risk is managed to ensure sustainable earnings over time, balancing the impact on current year earnings against changes in economic value at risk over the life of the asset and liability portfolios. Table 30 - Estimated Sensitivity of Net Interest Income as a Result of One Percentage Point Change in Interest Rates
($ thousands)

Impact of 1% increase in interest rates 

Period

90 days

1 year

1 year percentage change

Impact of 1% decrease in interest rates

Period

90 days

1 year

1 year percentage change

2016

 $ 

7,608 

 $  

 12,582 

 2.15 % 

2016

 $  

(3,570)

 $  

(5,150)

(0.88)% 

2015

(518)

(2,989)

(0.61)%

2015

(43)

(201)

(0.04)%

Higher sensitivity to an increase in rates reflects reduction in CWB’s 
duration of equity. 

It is estimated that a one-percentage point increase in all interest 
rates at October 31, 2016 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 $57.1 million, net of tax (October 31, 2015 – 
$90.1 million); it is estimated that a one-percentage point decrease in 
all interest rates at October 31, 2016 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 $58.6 million, net 
of tax (October 31, 2015 – $87.1 million). 

Treasury maintains the asset liability structure and interest rate sensitivity 
within CWB’s established policies through pricing and product initiatives, 
as well as the use of interest rate swaps and other appropriate strategies. 
Differences in the respective sensitivity of net interest income and other 
comprehensive income to changes in interest rates compared to last year 
primarily reflects the increased use of interest rate swaps to maintain 
management’s targeted asset liability structure and interest rate sensitivity. 

Foreign Exchange Risk 

Foreign exchange risk is the risk to changes in earnings or economic value arising from changes in foreign exchange rates. This risk arises when 
various assets and liabilities are denominated in different currencies.  

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

63

In providing financial services to its customers, CWB has assets and liabilities denominated in U.S. dollars. At October 31, 2016, assets denominated in U.S. dollars were 1.4% (2015 – 1.0%) of total assets and U.S. dollar liabilities were 1.5% (2015 – 1.1%) of total liabilities. Currencies other than U.S. dollars are not bought or sold other than to meet specific client needs. CWB has no material 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 Risk Committee. Any deviations from policy are reported regularly to ALCo and quarterly to the Board Risk Committee.     
    
    
    
    
    
Liquidity And Funding Risk 

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

Risk Overview

CWB maintains a sound, prudent and conservative approach to 
managing exposure to liquidity risk, including targeting a contingency 
planning horizon under stressed 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 cost of risk mitigation that considers 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 Liquidity Management section of this MD&A for additional 
information.

64

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual ReportRisk GovernanceLiquidity management is centralized to better facilitate the effective management of liquidity risk. The Board Risk Committee approves market risk management policies and delegates liquidity risk authorities to senior management. As the first line of defence, Treasury is responsible for managing the liquidity and funding risk. ALCo oversees the treasury function and provides tactical and strategic guidance.  ERM, as the second line of defence, is responsible for independent oversight. CWB has remained in compliance with OSFI’s Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR) and the Net Cumulative Cash Flow monitoring tool, since its introduction on 
January 1, 2015.  

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

Table 31 - Contractual Obligations
($ thousands)

Management sections of this MD&A, as well as Notes 13, 17, 21 and 
30 of the consolidated financial statements, contractual obligations 
outstanding at October 31, 2016 are disclosed in Table 31.

Lease commitments

 $ 

 13,205 

 $ 

      23,754 

 $         20,487 

 $ 

      34,582 

 $ 

      92,028 

Purchase obligations for operating and capital expenditures

           2,909 

           5,792 

                364 

               108 

           9,173 

Within 1 
Year

1 to 3
Years

4 to 5
Years

More than
5 Years

Total

October 31, 2016

October 31, 2015

Credit Ratings

 $ 

      16,114 

 $ 

      29,546 

 $         20,851 

 $ 

      34,690 

 $ 

      17,054 

 $ 

      22,682 

 $         19,428 

 $ 

      40,479 

 $ 

 $ 

   101,201 

   99,643 

CWB’s ability to efficiently access capital markets 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. 

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

65

Risk ManagementCWB has a comprehensive liquidity risk management policy. 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, Executive Risk Committee and the Board Risk Committee.  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 modelling – 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 – Treasury oversight of all significant liquidity risks that support analysis, risk measurement, stress testing, monitoring and reporting to both ALCo and the Board Risk Committee;• Stress testing – CWB performs liquidity stress testing on a regular basis to evaluate the potential effect of both systemic and company-specific (idiosyncratic) 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. CWB stress tests liquidity as per guidance from OSFI as described in the Liquidity Adequacy Requirement. Stress test results are reviewed by ALCo and considered in making liquidity management decisions. Liquidity stress testing has many purposes, including, but not limited to:• helping the Board Risk Committee and senior management understand the potential behavior of various positions on CWB’s balance sheet in circumstances of stress; and,• facilitating the development of effective funding, risk mitigation and contingency plans.• Contingency planning – A liquidity contingency plan is maintained that defines a liquidity event and 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 currently include securitization, capital market issuance and whole loan sales; and, • 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. 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.

Table 32 summarizes the credit ratings issued for CWB, as well as the 
corresponding rating agency outlook at October 31, 2016. 

Table 32 – Credit Ratings

The following CWB ratings issued by DBRS, along with the corresponding outlook, were last confirmed on November 17, 2016. 

Long-term senior 
debt and deposits

Short-term debt

Subordinated 
debentures

Preferred shares

Outlook

DBRS 

A (low)

R1 (low)

BBB (high)

Pfd-3

Stable

CAPITAL RISK 

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

Risk Overview

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

•  The objective of capital management is to ensure:

 - capital is, and will continue to be, adequate to maintain confidence 

•  Capital management involves a dynamic and ongoing process to 

determine, allocate and maintain appropriate amounts of capital; and, 

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

•  The optimal amount and composition of capital must consider 
regulatory and economic capital requirements, as well as the 
expectation of CWB shareholders and other stakeholders.

 - 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.

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

66

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual ReportRisk GovernanceThe Board approves the annual regulatory capital plan, Internal Capital Adequacy Assessment Process (ICAAP) and the Board Risk Committee approves capital management policies. The Group Capital Risk Committee is responsible for capital risk management. The CFO as the head of Finance is responsible for the available capital as the supply side, while the CRO as the head of Risk is responsible for risk capital as the demand side. In addition, Finance, Risk, Strategy and RDAAR Analytics comprise the ICAAP core team and are closely involved in capital management. The core team is closely supported by other key departments, including Treasury and Credit Risk Management.Risk ManagementThe following are key elements of capital risk management:• The annual regulatory capital plan, inclusive of the capital management policy and three-year capital projections; • A quarterly regulatory capital risk update provided to the Board Risk Committee;• Consolidated forecast models used to analyze the likely capital impact of projected operations, stress testing and/or significant transactions; and,• Regulatory capital ratios reported to senior management and the Board on a monthly basis. 
 
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 
three main subsets of operational risk: regulatory risk, people risk and technology risk. Other types of operational risk include cybersecurity risk 
and reputation risk.  

Risk Overview

Operational risk is inherent in all of CWB’s business activities including 
banking, trust, wealth management and, up to May 1, 2015, 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. 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 2016 or 2015.

The regulatory framework requires certain amounts of capital to be 
allocated to support operational risk. 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. This is supported by specific operational risk training for all staff.

Key elements of the Operational Risk Management Framework include:

Additional key components include:

•  Common definitions of operational risk - CWB incorporates 

standard risk terms and certain key operational risk definitions as part 
of its Group Operational Risk Management Framework and supporting 
policies.

• 

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

•  continual  enhancements to fraud prevention processes, policies and 

•  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.  

communication; 

•  established “whistleblower” processes and employee code of conduct;

•  maintenance of an outsourcing management program;

•  at least annual assessment and benchmarking of business insurance;

•  human resource policies and processes to ensure staff are adequately 
trained for the tasks for which they are responsible and to enable 
retention and recruitment; 

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

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

67

Risk GovernanceBusiness and support areas as the first line of defence are fully accountable for the management and control of operational risks to which they are exposed. The Group Operational Risk Committee has responsibility for operational risk, with oversight by the Board Risk Committee, the Executive Risk Committee and senior management. ERM, as the second line of defence, is responsible for the continual enhancement of the Group Operational Risk Framework and supporting policies. The Board Risk Committee has ultimate oversight and approves the Group’s Operational Risk Management Framework.Risk ManagementFollowing is a summary of strategies and factors that assist with the effective management of operational risk:• Management remains close to operations, which helps to facilitate effective internal communication and operational control; • Surveys on employee engagement and corporate culture;• Communication of, and specific training related to, the importance of effective operational risk management to all levels; • Management that is very engaged with promoting CWB’s operational risk tolerance and appetite; and,• Ongoing enhancement of group-wide operational risk management processes. •  use of technology that incorporates automated systems with built-
in controls and active management of configuration and change 
management along with information security management programs; 

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

•  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).

Subcategories of Operational Risk

Regulatory Compliance Risk

Regulatory compliance 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 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 support 
compliance with governing laws and regulations.

Over the past several years, the intensity of supervisory oversight of 
all federally regulated Canadian financial institutions has increased 
significantly in terms of both regulation and new standards. This 
includes amplified supervisory activities, an increase in the volume of 

regulation, more frequent data and information requests from regulators, 
and shorter implementation time frames for regulatory requirements, 
including the Basel III capital and liquidity standards. Certain regulations 
may also impact CWB’s ability to compete against both non-OSFI and 
other OSFI regulated entities. Effective management of regulatory risk 
and compliance in the current environment requires, and is expected 
to continue to require, considerable internal resources and the active 
involvement of senior management 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 and non-compliance 
for all regulated entities. CWB has intensified its efforts for regulatory 
compliance risk management. A number of initiatives are underway to 
further its compliance risk management capabilities.

People Risk

People risk is the risk that CWB is not able to attract and retain sufficient qualified employees to implement its strategies and/or achieve its objectives.

Competition for qualified employees in CWB’s key markets remains 
apparent, reflecting the general level of economic activity and the 
needs of other financial services participants within and outside CWB’s 
geographic footprint. 

CWB intends to continually attract and retain sufficient qualified 
employees to successfully execute against its strategic direction. Inability 
to maintain an appropriate staff complement would adversely affect 
CWB’s ability to achieve its strategic objectives. 

Technology Risk

Technology risk is related to the operational performance, confidentiality, integrity and availability of our information, systems and infrastructure.

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. Implementation of 
CWB’s new core banking system reduces technology risk compared to the 
legacy system; however, CWB currently has a number of other technology 
projects underway which increase risk exposure related to information 
systems and technology.  

68

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual ReportCybersecurity Risk 

Cybersecurity risk is related to the ongoing threat that systems and their data may be attacked, damaged or subject to unauthorized access.

CWB manages cyber security risk by ensuring appropriate technologies, 
processes and practices are effectively designed and implemented to help 
prevent, detect and respond to threats as they emerge and evolve. CWB 
relies upon a complete suite of advanced controls to protect itself and its 
customers from attack and has partnered with leading third-party service 

providers to provide counsel and support should the need arise. CWB 
regularly tests the completeness and effectiveness of its cybersecurity 
program and, through ongoing vigilance, has not experienced a 
cybersecurity event of any materiality. 

Reputation Risk

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 the CWB Group’s personal conduct policies 
and in a manner that minimizes reputational risk. In addition to members 
of senior management, the Legal, Strategy and Investor Relations, and 
Regulatory Compliance departments are particularly involved in the 
management of reputation risk.

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, with 
a growing business presence in Ontario. Accordingly, CWB’s overall 
financial performance is impacted by general business and economic 
conditions across the country. Several factors that could impact general 
business and economic conditions in CWB’s markets include, but are not 
limited to, changes in: short-term and long-term interest rates; energy 
and other commodity prices; real estate prices; adverse global economic 
events and/or elevated economic uncertainties; inflation; exchange 
rates; levels of consumer, business and government spending; levels of 
consumer, business and government debt; and consumer confidence. 

Level of Competition 

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 about 
customers and counterparties. In deciding whether to extend credit or 
enter into other transactions with clients and counterparties, CWB may 
rely on information furnished by them, including financial statements, 
appraisals, external credit ratings and other financial information. CWB 
may also rely on the representations of clients and counterparties as to 
the accuracy and completeness of that information and, with respect to 
financial statements, on the reports of auditors. CWB’s financial condition 

and earnings could be negatively impacted to the extent it relies on 
financial statements that do not comply with standard accounting 
practices, that are materially misleading, or that do not fairly present, in 
all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of 
the customer or counterparties.

Ability to Execute Growth Initiatives

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

Adequacy of CWB’s Risk Management Framework

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

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

69

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 beyond CWB’s control that may affect future results 
include changes in tax laws, technological changes, unexpected changes 
in consumer spending and saving habits, timely development and 
introduction of new products, and the anticipation of and success in 
managing the associated risks.

UPDATED SHARE INFORMATION

As at November 24, 2016, there were 88,122,562 common shares and 
4,946,904 stock options outstanding. On November 30, 2016, CWB’s 
Board of Directors declared a cash dividend of $0.23 per common share, 
payable on January 5, 2017 to shareholders of record on December 15, 
2016. This quarterly dividend is consistent with the prior quarter and the 
dividend declared one year ago. The Board of Directors also declared a 
cash dividend of $0.275 per Series 5 Preferred Share, and a cash dividend 
of $0.390625 per Series 7 Preferred Share, both payable on January 31, 
2017 to shareholders of record on January 20, 2017.

CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

During the year ended October 31, 2016, CWB implemented its new 
core banking system. Implementation of this system impacted CWB’s 
disclosure controls and internal controls over financial reporting. The 
evaluation of the changes to the design of the disclosure controls 
and internal controls over financial reporting concluded there is 
reasonable assurance that material and required disclosure information 
is appropriately identified and reported and that financial reporting is 
reliable and in accordance with IFRS. 

CWB’s certifying officers have limited the scope of the design of 
disclosure controls and procedures and internal controls over financial 
reporting to exclude the controls, policies and procedures of CWB 
Maxium, acquired on March 1, 2016. This limitation will be removed 
in 2017 within the time frame permitted by regulation. CWB Maxium 
contributed approximately 1% to CWB’s consolidated total revenue 
for the eight months ended October 31, 2016 and its contribution to 
consolidated net income primarily comprised the after-tax impact of 
the $7.9 million acquisition-related fair value change, or $5.8 million.  
Additionally, at October 31, 2016, CWB Maxium’s contribution to 
consolidated total assets and liabilities was 2% and less than 1%, 
respectively.

As of October 31, 2016, 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, 2016, 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 
the preparation of financial statements in accordance with IFRS. Based 
on that evaluation, the CEO and CFO will certify that the design and 
operating effectiveness of internal controls over financial reporting were 
effective.

There were no other changes in CWB’s ongoing internal controls over 
financial reporting that occurred during the year ended  October 31, 
2016 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially 
affect, CWB’s internal controls over financial reporting. Prior to its release, 
this MD&A was reviewed by the Audit Committee and, on the Audit 
Committee’s recommendation, approved by the Board of Directors of 
CWB.

This Management’s Discussion and Analysis is dated December 1, 2016.

70

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report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 National 
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 Financial Officer, Chief Internal Auditor and the 
external auditors without management present.

The Governance Committee, appointed by the Board of Directors, is 
comprised 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 1, 2016 

Carolyn J. Graham, FCPA, FCA 
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

71

 
 
 
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, 2016 and October 31, 2015, the consolidated 
statements of income and comprehensive income, changes in equity and 
cash flows for the years then ended, and notes, comprising a summary of 
significant accounting policies and other explanatory information.

MANAGEMENT’S RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE 
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation 
of these consolidated financial statements in accordance with 
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.

An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about 
the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. 
The procedures selected depend on our judgment, including the 
assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated 
financial statements, whether due to fraud or error. In making those 
risk assessments, we consider internal control relevant to the entity’s 
preparation and fair presentation of the consolidated financial 
statements in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in 
the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on 
the effectiveness of the entity’s internal control. An audit also includes 
evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the 
reasonableness of accounting estimates made by management, as 
well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated financial 
statements.

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

AUDITORS’ RESPONSIBILITY

OPINION

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.

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, 2016 and October 31, 2015, and its 
consolidated financial performance and its consolidated cash flows for 
the years then ended in accordance with International Financial Reporting 
Standards.

Chartered Professional Accountants

December 1, 2016
Edmonton, Canada

72

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report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 debt securities

Preferred shares

Common shares

Securities Purchased under Resale Agreements  

Loans  

Personal

Business

Allowance for credit losses  

Other

Property and equipment  

Goodwill  

Intangible assets  

Derivative related  

Other assets  

Total Assets

Liabilities and Equity

Deposits  

Personal

Business and government

Other

Cheques and other items in transit

Derivative related  

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 4) 

(Note 5) 

As at
October 31 
2016 

As at
October 31 
2015 

 $  

11,490 

 $  

23,949 

        890,516 

           412,768 

          18,050 

               6,705 

        920,056 

          443,422 

      1,142,798 

        1,364,862 

        291,947 

          620,904 

        154,648 

          346,299 

         119,201 

           143,868 

 - 

             75,179 

      1,708,594 

        2,551,112 

(Note 6) 

         163,318 

                      - 

(Note 7) 

      4,063,552 

        3,318,254 

      18,001,584 

      16,251,530 

     22,065,136 
(103,788)

      19,569,784 
            (94,401)

(Note 8) 

      21,961,348 

      19,475,383 

(Note 9) 

          57,330 

             61,356 

(Note 10) 

          84,762 

             43,781 

(Note 10) 

         149,312 

           106,103 

(Note 11) 

          10,370 

             23,245 

(Note 12) 

         167,459 

           134,125 

469,233 

           368,610 

$    25,222,549

 $   22,838,527 

(Note 13) 

$    13,223,702

 $   11,416,621 

      7,970,851 

        7,948,786 

      21,194,553 

      19,365,407 

          27,683 

             60,258 

(Note 11) 

             7,172 

               4,503 

(Note 15) 

        382,130 

           308,837 

        416,985 

           373,598 

(Note 16) 

 943,198 

           562,623 

        325,000 

           625,000 

      1,268,198 

        1,187,623 

(Note 17) 

        265,000 

           125,000 

(Note 17) 

         718,377 

           537,511 

      1,354,966 

        1,261,678 

          31,276 

             29,210 

(27,579)

           (42,492)

      2,342,040 
 773 

        1,910,907 
                  992 

      2,342,813 

        1,911,899 

$    25,222,549

 $   22,838,527 

(Note 19) 

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

Robert L. Phillips 

Chair of the Board 

Chris Fowler 

President and Chief Executive Officer

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

73

                 
      
      
      
        
             
2016 

2015 

 $   

928,257 

 $  

855,367 

           28,703 

           40,381 

             5,029 

 2,522 

         961,989 

         898,270 

         346,498 

         316,838 

           30,267 

 37,960 

         376,765 

         354,798 

         585,224 

         543,472 

           30,598 

           14,021 

           13,617 

  27,855 

  14,448 

 13,697 

           11,522 

           10,816 

            (2,830)

             5,744 

           72,672 

 (4,324)

  5,456 

  67,948 

         657,896 

         611,420 

(Note 8)

           79,115 

 (Note 3)

             7,857 

 31,009 

   638 

(Note 22)

(Note 3)

(Note 23)

 204,903 

         191,289 

           52,539 

           47,478 

           56,205 

         313,647 

 54,722 

 293,489 

         257,277 
           67,943 

         286,284 
  71,319 

         189,334 
                961 

 214,965 
  1,401 

         188,373 
           10,612 

         213,564 
  5,500 

 177,761 
  -   

 208,064 
         111,637 

 $  

177,761 

 $  

319,701 

           83,411 
           83,419 

           80,442 
           80,582 

 $  

2.13 

 $  

2.59

 2.13 

               3.97 

 -   

 1.38 

 2.13 

               2.59 

 2.13 

               3.97 

    -   

 1.38 

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

Non-interest Income

Credit related

Wealth management

Retail services

Trust services

Losses on securities, net

Other

Total Revenue

Provision for Credit Losses  

Acquisition-related Fair Value Changes 

Non-interest Expenses

Salaries and employee benefits

Premises and equipment

Other expenses

Net Income before Income Taxes from Continuing Operations
Income Taxes  

Net Income from Continuing Operations
Net Income Attributable to Non-controlling Interests

Shareholders' Net Income from Continuing Operations
Preferred share dividends

Common Shareholders' Net Income from Continuing Operations
Common Shareholders' Net Income from Discontinued Operations  

Common Shareholders' Net Income

Average number of common shares (in thousands)
Average number of diluted common shares (in thousands)

Earnings Per Common Share  

Basic  

- Continuing Operations

- Combined Operations

- Discontinued Operations

Diluted  - Continuing Operations

- Combined Operations

- Discontinued Operations

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

74

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report           
         
        
        
         
         
          
        
         
            
       
         
       
        
       
          
          
       
       
                
 
             
 
                
             
             
 
             
 
              
             
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
For the Year Ended October 31 
($ thousands)

Net Income from Continuing Operations

Common Shareholders' Net Income from Discontinued Operations

Net Income from Combined Operations

Available-for-sale securities

Gains (losses) from change in fair value(1)

Reclassification to net income(2)

Derivatives designated as cash flow hedges

Gains (losses) 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 $7,699 (2015 - $22,033).
(2) Net of income tax of $796 (2015 - $2,403).
(3) Net of income tax of $3,002 (2015 - $2,887).
(4) Net of income tax of $42 (2015 - $1,339).

2016 

2015 

 $  

189,334 

 $  

214,965 

- 

189,334 

111,637 

326,602 

20,799 

2,158 

22,957 

(8,157)

113 

(8,044)

14,913 

(59,593)

6,612 

(52,981)

7,846 

3,640 

11,486 

(41,495)

 $  

204,247 

 $  

285,107

 $  

203,286 

 $  

283,706 

961 

1,401 

 $  

204,247 

 $  

285,107

Items presented in other comprehensive income will be subsequently reclassified to the Consolidated Statements of Income when specific conditions are 
met.

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

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

75

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

Retained Earnings

Balance at beginning of year

Shareholders' net income from Continuing Operations

Common shareholders' net income from Discontinued Operations

Dividends  - Preferred shares 

                 - Common shares 

Issuance costs on common and preferred shares

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

Issued

Balance at end of year

Common Shares 

Balance at beginning of year

Issued to public

Issued on acquisition of subsidiary

Issued under dividend reinvestment plan

Transferred from share-based payment reserve on the exercise or exchange of options

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

Partial ownership increase

Balance at end of year

Total Equity

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

2016 

2015 

 $   1,261,678 

 $   1,011,147 

           188,373 

           213,564 

                      - 

           111,637 

(Note 17)

           (10,612)

             (5,500)

(Note 17)

           (76,424)

           (69,170)

             (8,049)

                      - 

        1,354,966 

        1,261,678 

(Note 17)

(Note 17)

(Note 18)

           (42,492)

                (997)

             22,957 

           (52,981)

             (8,044)

             11,486 

           (27,579)

           (42,492)

           125,000 

           125,000 

           140,000 

                      - 

           265,000 

           125,000 

           537,511 

           533,038 

           150,063 

                      - 

             25,606 

                      - 

               4,491 

               3,650 

                  706 

                  823 

           718,377 

           537,511 

             29,210 

             25,339 

               2,772 

               4,694 

                (706)

                (823)

             31,276 

             29,210 

        2,342,040 

        1,910,907 

                  992 

               1,066 

                  961 

               1,401 

             (1,033)

             (1,376)

                (147)

                  (99)

                  773 

                  992 

 $   2,342,813 

 $   1,911,899 

76

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual ReportCONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
For the Year Ended October 31 
($ thousands)

Cash Flows from Operating Activities

Net income from Continuing Operations

Common shareholders' net income from Discontinued Operations

Adjustments to determine net cash flows:

Gain on sale of Discontinued Operations  

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

Losses on securities, net

Deferred taxes, net

Acquisition-related fair value changes  

Change in operating assets and liabilities

Deposits, net

Loans, net

Securities purchased under resale agreements, net

Other items, net

Cash Flows from Financing Activities

Common shares issued, net of issuance costs  

Preferred shares issued, net of issuance costs  

Debt securities issued

Debt securities repaid

Debentures redeemed  

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

Proceeds from disposal of Discontinued Operations  

Property, equipment and intangibles

Partial ownership increase

Acquisitions  

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.

2016 

2015 

 $  

189,334 

 $  

214,965 

     -   

        111,637 

(Note 3)

     -   

  (107,808)

(Note 8)

            79,115 

            24,581 

  (17,424)

 31,009 

  21,417 

  1,054 

(Note 18)

              2,772 

            4,694 

              7,705 

            3,157 

              2,830 

  (3,045)

(Note 3)

              7,857 

 4,607 

(4,589)

   638 

       1,829,146 

      1,992,393 

       (2,218,973)

   (1,969,903)

 (163,318)

            29,242 

 99,566 

  (9,549)

 (230,178)

  393,288 

(Note 17)

          145,176 

(Note 17)

          136,838 

3,650 

  -   

          734,376 

        371,336 

(Note 16)

 (353,801)

 (300,000)

 (82,545)

 (1,033)

          279,011 

(220,703)

     -   

(74,670)

 (1,376)

 78,237 

        (477,748)

          44,411 

    (10,760,756)

   (6,663,035)

       8,638,234 

      4,979,789 

       2,990,500 

      1,001,632 

      -   

  (38,507)

    (4,572)

 215,710 

 (41,153)

   (816)

(Note 3)

(Note 3)

        (364,523)

   -   

  (17,372)

            31,461 

 (29,604)

(463,462)

  8,063 

 (37,667)

  $ 

1,857 

 $  

(29,604)

 $  

11,490 

 $  

            18,050 

  (27,683)

23,949 

  6,705 

 (60,258)

 $  

1,857 

 $  

(29,604)

 $  

975,727 

 $  

918,485 

          366,737 

        345,762 

            88,674 

 81,455 

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended October 31, 2016 and 2015 
($ thousands, except per share amounts)

1. NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND BASIS OF  
  PRESENTATION

a) Reporting Entity

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 1, 2016.

b) Basis of Consolidation 

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. Non-controlling 
interest in subsidiaries is presented on the consolidated balance sheets as 
a separate component of equity that is distinct from shareholders’ equity. 
The net income attributable to non-controlling interest in subsidiaries is 
presented separately in the consolidated income statements. See Note 31 
for details of the subsidiaries.

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a historic 
cost basis, except the revaluation of the following items: available-for-
sale financial assets; derivative financial instruments and contingent 
consideration. 

c) 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.

d) 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, 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.

e) Significant Judgments

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

• 

Impairment of loans (Note 7)

•  Allowance for credit losses (Note 8)

78

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 acquisition-related fair value changes in the consolidated 
statements of 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) Held for Sale Classification and Discontinued  
  Operations

Assets and liabilities subject to a plan of disposal are classified as held for 
sale if their carrying amounts will be recovered principally through a sale 
transaction rather than through continuing use. This condition is satisfied 
when a sale is highly probable and the assets are available for immediate 
sale in their present condition, subject only to terms that are usual and 
customary for sales of this nature. Assets and liabilities classified as held 
for sale are measured at the lower of their carrying amount and fair value 
less costs to sell. Any impairment loss is recognized as a reduction to the 
carrying amount of the assets held for sale.

Discontinued Operations are presented if the operations and cash flows 
can be clearly distinguished operationally and financially from the rest of 
CWB, and if it represents a separate major line of business or geographic 
area of operations that either has been disposed of, is classified as held 
for sale, or is part of a single coordinated plan of disposal.

h) 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 non-interest income, except for unrealized foreign exchange 
gains and losses on available-for-sale equity securities that are included in 
other comprehensive income.

i) Provisions and Contingent Liabilities

Management exercises judgment in determining whether a past event or 
transaction may result in the recognition of a provision or the disclosure 
of a contingent liability. Provisions are recognized in the consolidated 
financial statements when management determines that it becomes 
probable that an outflow of resources will be required to settle the 
obligation and the amount can be reliably estimated, considering all 
relevant risks and uncertainties. Management as well as internal and 
external experts are involved in estimating any amounts required. The 
actual costs of resolving these obligations may be significantly higher or 
lower than the recognized provision.

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report 
 
j) Specific Accounting Policies

The accounting policies set out below have been applied consistently to 
all periods presented in these consolidated financial statements, except 
as noted. 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 

Topic

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

Financial instruments 
Strategic transactions 
Cash resources 
Securities 
Securities purchased under resale agreements 
Loans  
Allowance for credit losses 
Property and equipment 
Goodwill and intangible assets 
Derivative financial instruments 
Other assets 
Deposits 
Interest in unconsolidated structured entity 
Other liabilities 
Debt 
Capital stock
Share-based payments 
Non-controlling interests 
Contingent liabilities and commitments 
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 
Financial instruments - offsetting 
Risk management 
Capital management 
Subsidiaries

k) 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 9 – Financial Instruments

In July 2014, the IASB issued the complete version of IFRS 9, which will 
replace IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement. 
IFRS 9 addresses classification and measurement of financial assets and 
liabilities, impairment and hedge accounting.

Under the finalized guidance, IFRS 9 specifies that financial assets be 
classified into one of three categories (amortized cost, fair value through 
profit or loss, or fair value through other comprehensive income) based 
on the cash flow characteristics and the business model under which 
the assets are held. Classification of financial liabilities is unchanged, but 
for financial liabilities measured at fair value, changes in fair value of an 
entity’s own credit risk will be recognized in other comprehensive income 
rather than in profit or loss.  The final standard also introduces a new 
“expected credit loss” model for calculating impairment on all financial 
assets classified at amortized cost or fair value through comprehensive 
income, with the most significant impact being to loans. Specifically, IFRS 
9 requires entities to recognize 12-month expected credit losses from 

the date a financial asset is first recognized and to recognize lifetime 
expected credit losses if there is a significant increase in credit risk 
since inception. IFRS 9 also introduces a new hedge accounting model 
that expands the scope of eligible hedged items and risks eligible for 
hedge accounting, and aligns hedge accounting more closely with risk 
management.

IFRS 9 will be mandatorily effective for CWB’s fiscal year beginning on 
November 1, 2018, and early adoption is permitted. In January 2015, 
OSFI determined that Domestic Systemically Important Banks (D-SIBs) 
should adopt IFRS 9 beginning November 1, 2017, while early adoption is 
permitted but not required for other federally regulated Canadian banks 
with October year ends, such as CWB. CWB plans to adopt IFRS 9 on 
November 1, 2018.

During 2015, CWB commenced its IFRS 9 transition project focused 
on the three main areas of IFRS 9: classification and measurement, 
impairment, and hedge accounting. CWB continues to analyze the 
impact of the accounting policy changes under IFRS 9 on its consolidated 
financial statements and is currently on track with its project plan.  
Further details will be provided as the project progresses.

IFRS 16 – Leases

In January 2016, the IASB issued IFRS 16, which requires most leases 
to be recorded on the balance sheet. For lessees, most operating leases 
other than short-term or low-value leases will be capitalized, and will 
result in a balance sheet increase in lease assets and lease liabilities, and 
a decrease in operating lease expenses and an increase in financing 
costs on the income statement. The new standard will not impact lessor 
accounting beyond additional disclosures. The new standard is effective 
for CWB’s fiscal year beginning November 1, 2019 with early adoption 
permitted if IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers is applied. 
The impact on CWB of the new standard has not yet been determined.

IFRS 15 – Revenue from Contracts with Customers

The IASB has established principles for reporting about the nature, 
amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from 
an entity’s contracts with customers. The standard provides a single, 
principles-based model for revenue recognition to be applied to contracts 
with customers. The new standard does not apply to financial instruments 
or lease contracts, which fall in the scope of other IFRSs. 

In April 2016, the IASB issued amendments to IFRS 15, which clarify the 
underlying principles of IFRS 15 and provide additional transitional relief 
on initial application. These amendments are effective for CWB’s fiscal 
year beginning November 1, 2018. The impact on CWB of the new 
standard has not yet been determined.

IFRS 2 – Share-based Payment Transactions

In June 2016, the IASB issued amendments to IFRS 2, which clarify how 
to account for certain types of share-based payment transactions. These 
amendments are effective for CWB’s fiscal year beginning November 
1, 2018 and can be applied prospectively. The impact on CWB of these 
amendments has not yet been determined.

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

79

 
 
2. FINANCIAL 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.

market risk. A discussion of how these are managed can be found in 
the Risk Management section of Management's Discussion and Analysis 
(MD&A).

Financial assets include cash resources, securities, securities purchased 
under resale agreements, loans, derivative financial instruments and 
certain other assets. Financial liabilities include deposits, derivative 
financial instruments, debt and certain other liabilities.

The use of financial instruments exposes CWB to credit, liquidity and 

Income and expenses are classified as to source, either securities or loans 
for income, and deposits or debt for expense. Gains (losses) on the sale 
of securities, net and fair value changes in certain derivatives are classified 
to non-interest income. Contingent consideration fair value changes are 
classified as acquisition-related fair value changes in the consolidated 
statements of income. 

3. STRATEGIC TRANSACTIONS

a)  Acquisitions 

Maxium Financial Services Inc. and  
Desante Financial Services Inc.

On March 1, 2016, CWB acquired the non-securitized lending assets and 
other business assets of the privately held Maxium Financial Services Inc. 
and Desante Financial Services Inc., now referred to as “CWB Maxium 
Financial” (CWB Maxium) in exchange for $19,500 in cash, as well as 
1,250,312 common shares of CWB and contingent consideration with 
fair values on the acquisition date of $25,606 and $16,400, respectively, 
for a total initial acquisition cost of $61,506.  

Contingent consideration, to a maximum of $70,500, will be paid in 
annual instalments with determination of the total amount payable based 
on CWB Maxium’s cumulative business performance over a 36-month 
period. Up to 50% of the total contingent consideration may be settled 
with CWB shares at the vendors’ option, provided the average share 
price over the 20 days preceding issuance exceeds $30.00, with the 

remainder to be paid in cash. During 2016, the fair value of contingent 
consideration was increased by $7,857, which was recognized as an 
acquisition-related fair value change on the consolidated statements of 
income (see Note 27).

CWB Maxium provides loans, equipment leases and structured financing 
solutions to more than 35,000 clients, mainly in Ontario. Specialized 
financing solutions are primarily provided in the areas of health care, golf, 
transportation, real estate, and general corporate financing. Securitized 
assets that were originated prior to March 1, 2016 were not included in 
the transaction. The results of operations from CWB Maxium have been 
included in CWB’s consolidated financial statements since the acquisition 
date.

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

Fair Value of Initial Consideration Transferred

Assets and Liabilities Acquired at Fair Values

  Intangible assets

  Deferred income tax asset

  Other items, net

Goodwill

 $ 

61,506 

21,700

723

214

 $ 

38,869 

Intangible assets include customer relationships, a trademark, proprietary 
technology, and non-competition agreements.  The trademark, which has 
an estimated value of $3,680, is not subject to amortization. The total 

amount of goodwill and intangible assets are deductible over time for 
income tax purposes. 

CWB Franchise Finance

On July 1, 2016, CWB acquired a portfolio of franchise finance loan 
assets and the team from GE Canada Equipment Financing G.P., which 
added $344,018 to performing loans. No goodwill or intangible assets 
were included in the purchase structure. No allowance for credit losses 

was recorded on the acquisition date and loans are evaluated for 
impairment at each balance sheet date using the same methodology as 
loans originated by CWB.

80

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Reportb) Dispositions

The sales of CWB’s property and casualty insurance subsidiary, Canadian 
Direct Insurance (CDI), and the stock transfer business of its subsidiary, 
Valiant Trust Company, closed effective May 1, 2015. The transactions 
consisted of the sale of 100% of the shares of CDI as well as the transfer 
of certain operating assets, systems and employees that supported the 
stock transfer business. 

Revenues, expenses and net gains on sale associated with the businesses 
sold are reflected in common shareholders’ net income from Discontinued 
Operations in the 2015 consolidated statement of income. 

The components of net income from Discontinued Operations, which are attributable entirely to CWB common shareholders, are as follows:

Interest Income 

Securities

Deposits with regulated financial institutions

Non-interest Income

Net earned premiums

Commissions and processing fees

Net claims and adjustment expenses

Policy acquisition costs

Insurance revenues, net

Trust services

Gains (losses) on securities, net

Net Interest and Non-interest Income

Non-interest Expenses

Salaries and employee benefits

Premises and equipment

Other expenses

Net Income from Discontinued Operations before Income Taxes

Income taxes

Net Income from Discontinued Operations before Net Gains on Sale

Net gains on sale

Common Shareholders’ Net Income from Discontinued Operations

(1) Fiscal 2015 results include operations from November 1, 2014 to April 30, 2015. 

2016

2015(1)

 $ 

 -   

 $  

3,389 

                -   

                -   

  73 

 3,462 

                -   

            66,262 

                -   

   742 

                -   

           (44,451)

                -   

           (13,137)

                -   

             9,416 

                -   

             3,221 

                -   

  (283)

                -   

            12,354 

                -   

            15,816 

                -   

             6,596 

                -   

             2,572 

                -   

             1,936 

                -   

            11,104 

                -   

             4,712 

                -   

                -   

 883 

 3,829 

                -   

          107,808 

 $ 

-   

 $  

111,637 

The details of the cash flows from Discontinued Operations, excluding the net proceeds of $215,710, included in the consolidated statements of cash 
flows are as follows:

Net cash used in operating activities

Net cash used in financing activities

Net cash provided by investing activities

Increase in Cash and Cash Equivalents

2016

2015

 $ 

 $ 

-   

 $  

(13,975)

                  -   

             (8,000)

                  -   

            22,028 

-   

 $  

53 

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

81

 
 
               
           
            
            
              
           
4. CASH RESOURCES 

Cash resources include highly liquid investments that are readily 
convertible to cash and which are subject to an insignificant risk of 
change in value. Cheques and other items in transit included in cash 
resources are recorded at cost and represent the net position of uncleared 
cheques and other items in transit. 

Interest-bearing deposits with regulated financial institutions included 
in cash resources have been designated as available-for-sale and are 
reported on the consolidated balance sheets at fair value with changes in 

5. SECURITIES

Available-for-sale securities 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 when the right to 
receive payment is established, which is typically 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 non-
interest income. 

At each reporting date, CWB assesses whether there is objective evidence 
that available-for-sale securities 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 certain equity securities, a significant 
or prolonged decline in fair value below cost is objective evidence of 
impairment.

fair value reported in other comprehensive income, net of income taxes. 
At October 31, 2016, the fair value of deposits with regulated financial 
institutions was $890,516 (October 31, 2015 – $412,768), which is 
$81 lower (October 31, 2015 – $377) than amortized cost. At October 
31, 2016, $16,262 of interest-bearing deposits with regulated financial 
institutions was restricted from use in relation to a debt securitization 
agreement (October 31, 2015 – nil).

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 (losses) on securities, net’. 
The reclassified amount is the difference between the 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 accumulated other comprehensive income until the equity 
security is sold or redeemed. 

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

Securities Issued or Guaranteed by

Canada

A province or municipality

Other Debt Securities

Preferred Shares

Common Shares

Total

Maturities

Within
1 Year

1 to
3 Years

3 to
5 Years

Over 5
Years

As at
October 31
2016

As at
October 31
2015

 $ 

339,687 

 $ 

175,357 

 $ 

575,790 

 $ 

51,964 

 $  1,142,798   $ 

1,364,862 

 80,421 

 126,079 

 11,711 

 - 

 68,912 

 5,019 

 56,836 

 - 

 142,614 

 23,550 

 50,654 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 291,947 

 154,648 

 119,201 

 - 

 620,904 

 346,299 

 143,868 

 75,179 

 $ 

557,898 

 $ 

306,124 

 $ 

792,608 

 $ 

51,964 

 $  1,708,594   $ 

2,551,112 

82

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual ReportThe analysis of unrealized gains and losses on securities reflected on the balance sheet is as follows: 

As at October 31, 2016

As at October 31, 2015

Amortized
Cost

Unrealized
Gains

Unrealized
Losses

Fair
Value

Amortized
Cost

Unrealized
Gains

Unrealized
Losses

Fair
Value

Securities Issued or Guaranteed by

Canada

 $  1,142,651 

 $ 

676 

 $ 

529 

 $  1,142,798 

 $  1,373,476 

 $ 

296 

 $ 

8,910 

 $  1,364,862 

A province or municipality

Other Debt Securities

Preferred Shares

Common Shares

Total

 291,814 

 153,126 

 165,606 

 - 

 274 

 1,589 

 - 

 - 

 141 

 67 

 291,947 

 626,300 

 154,648 

 347,322 

 46,405 

 119,201 

 198,325 

 84 

 12 

 - 

 5,480 

 1,035 

 620,904 

 346,299 

 54,457 

 143,868 

 - 

 - 

 81,528 

 800 

 7,149 

 75,179 

 $  1,753,197 

 $ 

2,539 

 $ 

47,142 

 $  1,708,594 

 $  2,626,951 

 $ 

1,192 

 $ 

77,031 

 $  2,551,112 

The securities portfolio is primarily comprised of high-quality debt 
and equity instruments 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. As at October 31, 

2016, CWB assessed the securities with unrealized losses and based 
on available objective evidence, concluded that the unrealized losses 
resulted from changes in interest rates and not from deterioration in the 
creditworthiness of the issuers. No impairment charges were included in 
gains (losses) on securities, net (2015 – nil). 

6. SECURITIES PURCHASED UNDER RESALE AGREEMENTS

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

7. LOANS

Loans, including leases, are recorded at amortized cost and stated net 
of unearned income, unamortized premiums and allowance for credit 
losses (see Note 8). 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. 

Securities purchased under resale agreements have been designated as 
available-for-sale and are reported on the consolidated balance sheets 
at fair value with changes in fair value reported in other comprehensive 
income, net of income taxes. 

Impairment is measured as the difference between the carrying value of 
the loan at the time it is classified as impaired and the present value of 
the expected cash flows (estimated realizable amount), using the original 
effective interest rate of the loan. When the amounts and timing of 
future cash flows cannot be reliably estimated, either the fair value of the 
security underlying the loan, net of any expected realization costs, or the 
current market price for the loan may be used to measure the estimated 
realizable amount. Impaired loans are returned to performing status 
when the timely collection of both principal and interest is reasonably 
assured, all delinquent principal and interest payments are brought 
current, and all charges for loan impairment have been reversed.

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

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

83

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

As at October 31, 2016

As at October 31, 2015

Gross
Amount

Gross
 Impaired
  Amount(2)

Specific
Allowance

Net
Impaired
Loans

Gross
Amount

Gross
Impaired
Amount(2)

Specific
Allowance

Net
Impaired
Loans

 $ 4,063,552 

 $ 

21,968 

 $ 

204 

 $  

21,764 

 $ 3,318,254 

 $ 

16,145 

 $ 

262 

 $  

15,883 

 8,424,777 

 5,644,231 

 3,711,504 

 221,072 

 29,784 

 18,363 

 40,201 

 16,896 

 2,989 

 1,370 

 9,563 

 2,143 

 26,795 

 7,460,414 

 32,541 

16,993 

 4,658,219 

 30,638 

 3,819,965 

14,753 

 312,932 

 3,870 

 19,573 

 22,776 

 1,770 

 128 

 4,346 

 9,300 

$ 22,065,136 

 $  127,212 

 $ 

16,269 

     110,943  $ 19,569,784 

 $ 

94,905 

 $ 

15,806 

     (110,943)

 $  

- 

30,771 

3,742 

15,227 

13,476 

79,099 

(99,613)

 $  

(20,514)

Personal

Business

Real estate(1)

Commercial

Equipment financing

Energy

Total

Collective Allowance(3)

Net Impaired Loans After

Collective Allowance

(1) Multi-family residential mortgages are included in real estate loans.
(2) Gross impaired loans include foreclosed assets with a carrying value of $3,876 (October 31, 2015 - $979). CWB pursues timely realization on foreclosed assets and does not use the assets for its own operations.
(3) The collective allowance for credit loss includes amounts related to committed but undrawn credit exposures and is not allocated by loan type (see Note 8).

During the year, interest recognized as income on impaired loans totalled $1,801 (2015 - $2,019).

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, 2016

As at October 31, 2015

Gross
Impaired
Amount

Specific
Allowance

Net
Impaired
Loans

Gross
Impaired
Amount

Specific
Allowance

Net
Impaired
Loans

 $ 

64,751 

 $ 

6,137 

 $  

58,614 

 $ 

41,749 

 $ 

11,020 

 $  

30,729 

      29,074 

            2,868 

            26,206 

      30,539 

          1,932 

 28,607 

      16,596 

            4,680 

            11,916 

        9,256 

          1,019 

             8,237 

        8,688 

               712 

              7,976 

        8,437 

             606 

             7,831 

        3,903 

               543 

              3,360 

        1,539 

             240 

 1,299 

        4,200 

            1,329 

              2,871 

        3,385 

             989 

             2,396 

 $ 

127,212 

 $ 

16,269 

          110,943 

 $ 

94,905 

 $ 

15,806 

           79,099 

Collective Allowance(1)

Net Impaired Loans After Collective Allowance

 (110,943)

 $  

 - 

 (99,613)

 $  

(20,514)

(1) The collective allowance for credit loss includes amounts related to committed but undrawn credit exposures and is not allocated by province.

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, 2016

1 - 30 days

31 - 60 days

61 - 90 days

More than
90 days

Total

Personal

Business

  $         66,647 

 $          23,735 

 $            1,508 

 $           2,981 

 $          94,871 

          101,506 

            23,401 

              7,801 

            1,510 

          134,218 

  $       168,153 

 $ 

      47,136 

 $            9,309 

 $           4,491 

 $        229,089 

As at October 31, 2015

  $         81,469 

 $         46,723 

 $           8,874 

 $         3,495 

 $       140,561 

84

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
    
    
 
 
    
    
    
    
    
         
           
      
       
The composition of CWB’s loan portfolio by geographic region and industry sector is as follows:

October 31, 2016

($ millions)

Personal(1)

Business

Real estate

Commercial

Equipment financing (2)

Energy

BC

AB

ON

SK

MB

Other

Total

Composition Percentage

Oct. 31
2016

Oct. 31
2015

$  1,154 

 $ 

1,219 

 $ 

1,317 

 $ 

190 

 $ 

102 

 $ 

82 

 $ 

4,064 

 18 %

 17 %

 4,102 

 1,925 

 627 

 - 

 6,654 

 3,259 

 2,173 

 1,148 

 200 

 6,780 

 410 

 831 

 789 

 - 

 478 

 284 

 382 

 21 

 2,030 

 1,165 

 175 

 259 

 168 

 - 

 602 

 1 

 172 

 597 

 - 

 8,425 

 5,644 

 3,711 

 221 

 770 

 18,001 

 38 

 26 

 17 

 1 

 82 

 38 

 24 

 19 

 2 

 83 

Total Loans(3)

 $  7,808 

 $ 

7,999 

 $ 

3,347 

 $ 

1,355 

 $ 

704 

 $ 

852 

 $  22,065 

 100 %

 100 %

Composition Percentage

October 31, 2016

October 31, 2015

 36 %

 33 %

 36 %

 41 %

 15 %

 12 %

 6 %

 7 %

 3 %

 3 %

 4 %

 4 %

 100 %

100 %

(1) Includes mortgages securitized through the National Housing Act Mortgage-backed Securities program reported on-balance sheet of $391 (October 31, 2015 - nil).
(2) Includes securitized leases reported on-balance sheet of $1,030 (October 31, 2015 - $635) (see Note 16).
(3) This table does not include an allocation of the allowance for credit losses.

8. 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 and committed but undrawn 
credit exposures assessed collectively (collective allowance). The adequacy 
of the allowance for credit losses is reviewed at least quarterly. The 
allowance for credit losses related to drawn exposures is deducted from 
the outstanding loan balance. The allowance for credit losses related to 
committed but undrawn credit exposures is included with other liabilities. 
Losses expected from future events are not recognized.

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: 

Specific Allowance

•  historical trends in the loss experience during economic cycles;

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 7 for the 
identification process of impaired loans.

•  the current portfolio profile;

•  historical loss experience in portfolios of similar credit risk 

characteristics;

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.

•  the estimated period between impairment occurring and the loss being 

identified; and

•  CWB’s management judgment as to whether current economic and 

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

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

85

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

2016

2015

Specific
Allowance

Collective
Allowance

Total

Specific
Allowance

Collective
Allowance

Total

 $  

15,806 

 $ 

99,613 

 $  

115,419 

 $  

5,523 

 $ 

90,075 

 $  

95,598 

67,785 

(70,460)

3,138 

 11,330 

 - 

 - 

79,115 

(70,460)

3,138 

21,471 

(15,810)

4,622 

 9,538 

 - 

 - 

31,009 

(15,810)

4,622 

Balance at End of Year

 $  

16,269 

 $ 

110,943 

 $  

127,212 

 $  

15,806 

 $ 

99,613 

 $  

115,419 

Represented by:

Loans

 $  

16,269 

 $ 

87,519 

 $  

103,788 

 $  

15,806 

 $ 

78,595 

 $  

94,401 

Committed but undrawn credit exposures  (Note 15)

- 

 23,424 

23,424 

- 

 21,018 

21,018 

Total Allowance

 $  

16,269 

 $ 

110,943 

 $  

127,212 

 $  

15,806 

 $ 

99,613 

 $  

115,419 

9. 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 non-interest 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.

Net Carrying Amount at October 31, 2016

$   

26,747 

 $ 

13,685 

 $  

6,398 

 $  

10,500 

 $  

Cost

Balance at November 1, 2015

Additions

Business acquisition  

Disposals

Balance at October 31, 2016

Accumulated Depreciation and Impairment

Balance at November 1, 2015

Depreciation for the year

Disposals

Balance at October 31, 2016

Cost

Balance at November 1, 2014

Additions

Disposals

Sale of businesses  

Balance at October 31, 2015

Accumulated Depreciation and Impairment

Balance at November 1, 2014

Depreciation for the year

Disposals

Sale of businesses  

Balance at October 31, 2015

Leasehold
Improvements

Land and
Buildings

Computer
Equipment

Office
Equipment

Total

$   

68,794 

 $ 

18,663 

 $  

26,045 

 $  

37,114 

 $  

150,616 

(Note 3)

1,345 

7 

- 

 38 

 - 

 - 

70,146 

 18,701 

39,092 

4,307 

- 

43,399 

 4,418 

 598 

 - 

 5,016 

2,269 

50 

(45)

28,319 

19,853 

2,113 

(45)

21,921 

1,901 

86 

- 

5,553 

143 

(45)

39,101 

156,267 

25,897 

2,704 

- 

28,601 

$   

69,000 

 $ 

18,539 

 $  

31,073 

 $  

37,696 

 $  

156,308 

(Note 3)

(Note 3)

3,213 

- 

(3,419)

68,794 

36,558 

5,542 

- 

(3,008)

39,092 

 124 

 - 

 - 

 18,663 

 3,830 

 588 

 - 

 - 

 4,418 

2,179 

 - 

(7,207)

26,045 

23,760 

2,418 

- 

(6,325)

19,853 

2,770 

(578)

(2,774)

37,114 

25,903 

 2,859 

(578)

(2,287)

25,897 

89,260 

9,722 

(45)

98,937 

57,330 

8,286 

(578)

(13,400)

150,616 

90,051 

11,407 

(578)

(11,620)

89,260 

61,356 

Net Carrying Amount at October 31, 2015

$   

29,702 

 $ 

14,245 

 $  

6,192 

 $  

11,217 

 $  

86

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
 
 
    
    
    
    
 
 
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
 
 
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
10. 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:

•  CWB Maxium Financial Inc. (MX);
•  National Leasing Group Inc. (NL);
•  McLean & Partners Wealth Management Ltd. (M&P);
•  Adroit Investment Management Ltd. (AIM); 
•  Valiant Trust Company (VTC); and
•  Canadian Direct Insurance Incorporated (CDI).

Balance at November 1, 2015

 $ 

- 

 $ 

35,776 

 $ 

4,194 

 $ 

3,811 

 $  

Business acquisition  

Partial ownership change

(Note 3)

 38,869 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 2,112 

 - 

 - 

Balance at October 31, 2016

 $ 

38,869 

 $ 

35,776 

 $ 

6,306 

 $ 

3,811 

 $  

- 

- 

- 

- 

 $  

 $  

- 

- 

- 

- 

 $  

43,781 

38,869 

2,112 

 $  

84,762 

MX

NL

M&P

AIM

VTC

CDI

Total

Balance at November 1, 2014

 $ 

- 

 $ 

35,776 

 $ 

3,888 

 $ 

3,811 

 $  

3,679 

 $  

3,254 

 $  

50,408 

Sale of businesses  

Partial ownership change

(Note 3)

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 306 

 - 

 - 

Balance at October 31, 2015

 $ 

- 

 $ 

35,776 

 $ 

4,194 

 $ 

3,811 

 $  

(3,679)

(3,254)

- 

- 

 $  

- 

- 

(6,933)

306 

 $  

43,781 

Intangible assets

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 acquisition-related intangible assets with finite useful 
lives is reported in other expenses and amortization of internally 
generated software is included in premises and equipment expenses on 
the consolidated statements of income and provided on a straight-line 
basis from the date at which it is available for use as follows:

•  Software and related assets: 3 to 15 years
•  Customer relationships: 10 to 15 years
•  Non-competition agreements: 4 to 5 years
•  Other: 3 to 5 years

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

87

    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
Software
and Related
Assets

Customer
Relationships

Non- 
competition
Agreements

Trademarks
and 
Tradenames

Other

Total

Cost

Balance at November 1, 2015

 $  

109,414 

 $  

39,576 

 $  

9,770 

 $  

2,552 

 $  

4,480 

 $  

165,792 

Additions

Business acquisition  

Partial ownership change

Disposals

(Note 3)

32,954 

 - 

- 

- 

(441)

17,250 

2,080 

- 

Balance at October 31, 2016

141,927 

58,906 

Accumulated Amortization

Balance at November 1, 2015

Amortization

Disposals

Balance at October 31, 2016

34,493 

8,505 

(441)

42,557 

15,256 

4,351 

- 

19,607 

- 

100 

1,052 

 - 

10,922 

7,525 

1,243 

- 

8,768 

- 

3,680 

282 

- 

6,514 

- 

- 

 - 

- 

- 

670 

- 

- 

32,954 

 21,700 

3,414 

(441)

5,150 

223,419 

2,415 

760 

- 

3,175 

59,689 

14,859 

(441)

74,107 

Net Carrying Amount at October 31, 2016

 $  

99,370 

 $  

39,299 

 $  

2,154 

 $  

6,514 

 $  

1,975 

 $  

149,312 

Cost

Balance at November 1, 2014

 $  

88,740 

 $  

43,196 

 $   

9,719 

 $  

2,811 

 $   

4,680 

 $  

149,146 

Additions

Partial ownership change

Sale of businesses  

Disposals

Balance at October 31, 2015

Accumulated Amortization

Balance at November 1, 2014

Amortization

Sale of businesses  

Disposals

Balance at October 31, 2015

(Note 3)

(Note 3)

32,867 

- 

(10,798)

(1,395)

109,414 

39,003 

5,540 

(8,655)

(1,395)

34,493 

- 

330 

(3,950)

- 

39,576 

16,235 

2,971 

(3,950)

- 

15,256 

- 

181 

(130)

 - 

9,770 

 6,648 

 1,007 

(130)

- 

7,525 

- 

41 

(300)

- 

2,552 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

(200)

- 

4,480 

2,123 

492 

(200)

- 

2,415 

32,867 

552 

(15,378)

(1,395)

165,792 

64,009 

10,010 

(12,935)

(1,395)

59,689 

Net Carrying Amount at October 31, 2015

 $  

74,921 

 $  

24,320 

 $  

2,245 

 $  

2,552 

 $  

2,065 

 $  

106,103 

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 five-year future business plan. Cash flows for a further 
15-year period were extrapolated using a constant growth rate of 
1.9%, 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 11.0% 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 2016 or 2015.

88

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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 earnings volatility related to restricted 
share units and deferred share units linked to CWB’s common share price. 
Foreign exchange contracts are used for the purposes of meeting the 
needs of clients, day-to-day business and liquidity management.

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.

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 and deferred 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 and any re-invested dividends 
should the counterparty default.

In addition to monitoring the creditworthiness of counterparties, 
CWB limits its exposure to credit losses related to derivative financial 
instruments by entering into Credit Support Annexes that provide for 
the exchange of collateral between parties where the fair value of the 
outstanding transactions exceeds an agreed upon threshold. 

Designated Accounting Hedges

When designated as accounting hedges by CWB, certain derivative 
financial instruments are designated 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 forecast 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 statements of income. When a forecast 
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 statements of income.

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 accounting 
hedge, a derivative not designated as an accounting hedge and all other 
derivative financial instruments are reported in other non-interest income 
on the consolidated statements of income.

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

89

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 and is inclusive of interest receivable related to 
the contracts, which is included with other assets on the consolidated 

balance sheets. 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, net of cash collateral held related to contracts with a positive 
fair value, weighted according to the creditworthiness of the counterparty 
as prescribed by OSFI. Additional discussion of OSFI’s capital adequacy 
requirements is provided within the Capital Management section of the 
MD&A.

As at October 31, 2016

As at October 31, 2015

Notional
Amount

Replace-
ment
Cost

Future
Credit
Exposure

Credit
Risk
Equivalent

Risk-
Weighted
Balance

Notional
Amount

Replace-
ment
Cost

Future
Credit
Exposure

Credit
Risk
Equivalent

Risk-
Weighted
Balance

Interest rate swaps
Equity swaps

 $ 3,698,000   $ 
 23,745 

12,800   $ 
 - 

10,490   $ 
 1,642 

23,290   $ 
 1,642 

3,244   $ 2,805,000   $ 

 328 

 22,884 

24,193   $ 
 - 

8,775   $ 
 1,576 

32,968   $ 
 1,576 

6,594 
 315 

Foreign exchange

contracts

 124,056 

 35 

 1,247 

 1,282 

 281 

 233,129 

 3,178 

 2,330 

 5,508 

 1,108 

Total

 $ 3,845,801   $ 

12,835   $ 

13,379   $ 

26,214   $ 

3,853   $ 3,061,013   $ 

27,371   $ 

12,681   $ 

40,052   $ 

8,017 

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, 2016

As at October 31, 2015

Favourable Contracts

Unfavourable Contracts

Favourable Contracts

Unfavourable Contracts

Notional
Amount

Fair
Value

Notional
Amount

Fair
Value

Notional
Amount

Fair
Value

Notional
Amount

Fair
Value

Interest rate swaps designated 

 as accounting hedges

 $ 2,035,000 

 $ 

10,335 

 $ 1,663,000 

 $ 

(3,014)

 $ 2,330,000 

 $ 

20,073 

 $  475,000 

 $  

(733)

Equity swaps designated
 as accounting hedges
Equity swaps not designated

 as accounting hedges
Foreign exchange contracts

 - 

 - 

 20,117 

 (1,449)

 - 

 - 

 19,860 

(3,317)

 - 
 1,330 

 - 
 35 

 3,628 
 122,726 

 (134)
 (2,575)

 - 
 213,183 

 - 
 3,172 

 3,024 
 19,946 

(307)
(146)

Total

 $ 2,036,330 

 $ 

10,370 

 $ 1,809,471 

 $ 

(7,172)

 $ 2,543,183 

 $ 

23,245 

 $  517,830 

 $  

(4,503)

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)

2016 

18,811 

9,324 

 $ 

 $ 

2015 

16,621 

3,477 

 $ 

 $ 

90

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report    
    
    
The following table summarizes maturities of derivative financial instruments and weighted average interest rates paid and received on contracts:

As at October 31, 2016

Maturity

As at October 31, 2015

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 accounting hedges(1)

 $ 1,600,000 

1.35%  $ 2,098,000 

0.95%  $ 1,050,000 

1.32%  $ 1,755,000 

1.23%

Equity swaps designated

 as accounting hedges(2)

 10,053 

1.65%

 10,064 

1.67%

 9,736 

1.72%

 10,124 

1.65%

Equity swaps not designated

 as accounting hedges(3)

 2,839 

1.50%

Foreign exchange contracts(4)

 124,056 

 789 

 - 

Total

 $ 1,736,948 

 $ 2,108,853 

1.50%

 3,024 

1.44%

 233,129 

 $ 1,295,889 

 - 

 - 

 $ 1,765,124 

 - 

(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 accounting hedges outstanding at  October 31, 2016 mature 

between November 2016 and September 2021.

(2) Equity swaps designated as accounting hedges outstanding at October 31, 2016 mature between June 2017 and June 2019. 
(3) Equity swaps not designated as accounting hedges outstanding at October 31, 2016 mature in June and December 2017.
(4) Foreign exchange contracts mature between November 2016 and April 2017. The contractual interest rate is not meaningful for foreign exchange contracts.

The impact of gains related to hedge ineffectiveness recognized in other non-interest income within the consolidated statements of income follows:

Fair Value Hedges

Change in fair value of hedging instruments

Change in fair value of hedged items attributable to hedged risk

Cash Flow Hedges

2016 

2015 

 $  

1,135 

 $ 

(501)

634 

- 

- 

 - 

 - 

- 

During the year, $8,157 net unrealized after-tax losses (2015 – $7,846 
after-tax gains) were recorded in other comprehensive income for 
changes in fair value of the effective portion of derivatives designated 
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, $113 of net losses after tax (2015 – 
$3,640) were reclassified to net income.

At October 31, 2016, hedged cash flows are expected to occur and affect 
profit or loss within the next five years (2015 – five years).

12. OTHER ASSETS

Accrued interest receivable

Accounts receivable

Deferred tax asset  

Income tax receivable

Prepaid expenses

Financing costs(1)

Derivative collateral receivable

Other

Total

(1) Amortization for the year amounted to $1,962 (2015 - $2,246).

As at 
October 31 
2016 

As at 
October 31 
2015 

 $ 

56,264 

 $ 

52,666 

         44,931 

        34,640 

(Note 22) 

         31,704 

        27,417 

         14,191 

               10 

         11,034 

        10,943 

           4,605 

          4,423 

           2,540 

                  - 

           2,190 

          4,026 

 $ 

167,459 

 $ 

134,125 

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

91

    
    
 
 
 
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

As at October 31, 2016

Individuals

Business and
Government

Total

 $ 

34,681 

 $ 

761,523 

 $ 

796,204 

 3,866,441 

 3,031,090 

 6,897,531 

 9,322,580 

 4,178,238 

 13,500,818 

 $  13,223,702 

 $  7,970,851 

 $  21,194,553 

As at October 31, 2015

Business and

Individuals

Government

Total

 $ 

33,129 

 $ 

590,411 

 $ 

623,540 

 3,188,276 

 2,907,597 

 6,095,873 

 8,195,216 

 4,450,778 

 12,645,994 

 $  11,416,621 

 $  7,948,786 

 $  19,365,407 

A summary of all outstanding deposits payable on a fixed date by contractual maturity date is as follows:

Within 1 year
1 to 2 years

2 to 3 years

3 to 4 years

4 to 5 years

Total

14. INTEREST IN UNCONSOLIDATED STRUCTURED ENTITY

As at 
October 31 
2016 

As at 
October 31 
2015 

 $  6,167,088 
 3,515,358 

 $  6,240,394 
 3,582,039 

 1,554,168 

 1,007,829 

 1,256,375 

 1,369,497 

 725,558 

 728,506 

 $  13,500,818 

 $  12,645,994 

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.

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 structured 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.  The deposit note of $105,000 (2015 - 
$105,000) is included in Deposits in the consolidated balance sheets.

CWB has obtained regulatory approval to proceed with the redemption 
of both the $105,000 senior deposit note held by CWB Capital Trust 
and all outstanding WesTS on December 31, 2016. Subsequent to the 
redemptions and the satisfaction of all outstanding liabilities of CWB 
Capital Trust, the structured entity will be terminated, effective December 
31, 2016, in accordance with the Amended and Restated Declaration of 
Trust.

Based on the guidance provided in IFRS 10 Consolidated Financial 
Statements, CWB has determined that it does not control, and 
consequently does not consolidate, CWB Capital Trust. However, CWB 
Capital Trust qualifies as an unconsolidated structured entity under 
the guidance of IFRS 12 Disclosure of Interests in Other Entities and, 
accordingly, additional disclosures regarding CWB Capital Trust are 
provided herein.

92

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual ReportThe following information presents the outstanding WesTS:

Issuance date 

Distribution dates 

Annual yield 

Earliest date redeemable  
at the option of the issuer 

Earliest date exchangeable  
at the option of the holder 

August 31, 2006

June 30, December 31

6.199%

December 31, 2011

Any time

Trust capital securities outstanding 

105,000

Principal amount 

$105,000

The significant terms and conditions of the WesTS are:

1)  Subject to the approval of OSFI, CWB Capital Trust may, in whole 

(but not in part), on the redemption date specified above, and on any 
distribution date thereafter, redeem the WesTS without the consent of 
the holders.

2)  Subject to the approval of OSFI, upon occurrence of a special event as 
defined, prior to the redemption date specified above, CWB Capital 
Trust may redeem all, but not part, of the WesTS without the consent 
of the holders.

3)  The WesTS may be redeemed for cash equivalent to (i) the early 

redemption price if the redemption occurs prior to December 31, 
2016 or (ii) the redemption price if the redemption occurs on or after 
December 31, 2016. Redemption price refers to an amount equal to 
one thousand dollars plus the unpaid distributions to the redemption 
date. Early redemption price refers to an amount equal to the greater 
of (i) the redemption price and (ii) the price calculated to provide an 
annual yield, equal to the yield on a Government of Canada bond 
issued on the redemption date with a maturity date of December 31, 
2016, plus 0.50%.

15. OTHER LIABILITIES

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.

6)  For regulatory capital purposes, all of the outstanding WesTS amounts 

are currently included in Tier 1 capital.

7)  The non-cumulative cash distribution on the WesTS will be 6.199% 
paid semi-annually until December 31, 2016 and, thereafter, at the 
Canadian Dollar Offered Rate (CDOR) 180-day Bankers’ Acceptance 
rate plus 255 basis points.

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities

Accrued interest payable

Contingent consideration  

Provisions for committed but undrawn credit exposures  

Deferred tax liability  

Income taxes payable

Derivative collateral payable

Deferred revenue

Leasehold inducements

Other

Total

(Note 27) 

(Note 8) 

(Note 22) 

As at 
October 31 
2016 

As at 
October 31 
2015 

 $ 

166,544 

 $ 

125,184 

 134,077 

 124,050 

 24,257 

 23,424 

 9,658 

 7,726 

 7,070 

 3,110 

 2,939 

 3,325 

 650 

 21,018 

 8,354 

 10,970 

 9,870 

 3,816 

 2,871 

 2,054 

 $ 

382,130 

 $ 

308,837 

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

93

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
16. DEBT 

a) 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. On November 30, 2015, 
CWB redeemed all outstanding 4.389% subordinated debentures at par 
plus accrued interest to, but excluding, the redemption date. 

Interest Rate

3.463%(1)

5.571%(2)

4.389%(3)

Total

 Maturity Date 

 Earliest Date Redeemable 
 by CWB at Par 

As at 
October 31 
2016 

As at 
October 31 
2015 

 December 17, 2024 

 December 17, 2019 

 $ 

250,000 

 $ 

250,000 

 March 21, 2022 

 March 22, 2017 

 75,000 

 November 30, 2020 

 November 30, 2015 

 - 

 75,000 

 300,000 

 $ 

325,000 

 $ 

625,000 

(1) 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 3-month CDOR rate plus 160 basis points.
(2) These conventional debentures have a 15-year term with a fixed interest rate for the first 10 years. Thereafter, the interest rate will be reset quarterly at the CDOR 90-day Bankers’ Acceptance rate plus 180 basis points.
(3) 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 3-month CDOR rate plus 193 basis points.

b) 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, 2016 was $943,198 
(October 31, 2015 – $562,623), and the associated carrying amount of 
the lease assets recorded on the balance sheet was $1,030,499 (October 
31, 2015 – $634,754), which does not include an allocation of the 
allowance for credit losses.

94

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report17. CAPITAL STOCK

Authorized:

•  An unlimited number of common shares without nominal or par value;
•  33,964,324 class A shares without nominal or par value; and

•  An unlimited number of first preferred shares, without nominal or 
par value, issuable in series, provided that the maximum aggregate 
consideration for all outstanding first preferred shares at any time does 
not exceed $1,000,000.

Issued and fully paid:

Preferred Shares - Series 5

Outstanding at beginning and end of year

Preferred Shares - Series 7
Outstanding at beginning of year

Issued

Outstanding at end of year

Common Shares
Outstanding at beginning of year

Issued to public

Issued on acquisition of subsidiary  

Issued under dividend reinvestment plan
Issued on exercise or exchange of options(1)

Outstanding at end of year
Share Capital

2016

Number of
Shares

Amount

2015

Number of
Shares

Amount

 5,000,000 

 $ 

125,000 

 5,000,000 

 $ 

125,000 

 - 
 5,600,000 

 5,600,000 

 80,526,069 

 6,125,000 

 1,250,312 

 185,111 
 16,628 

 88,103,120 

 $ 

 - 
 140,000 

 140,000 

 537,511 

 150,063 

 25,606 

 4,491 
 706 

 718,377 
983,377 

 - 
 - 

 - 

 - 
 - 

 - 

 80,369,305 

 533,038 

 - 

 - 

 133,321 
 23,443 

 80,526,069 

 - 

 - 

 3,650 
 823 

 537,511 
662,511 

 $ 

(Note 3)

(1) Represents shares issued and amounts transferred from the share-based payment reserve to share capital upon cashless settlement of option exercises.

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 
14), 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) Common shares

On July 7, 2016, CWB issued 6,125,000 common shares at a price of 
$24.50 per share for gross proceeds of $150,063.

b) Preferred Shares 

On March 31, 2016, CWB issued 5,600,000 non-cumulative, five-year 
rate reset First Preferred Shares Series 7 (Non-Viability Contingent Capital) 
(Series 7 Preferred Shares) at $25.00 per share, for gross proceeds of 
$140,000.

Non-Viability Contingent Capital Preferred Share Rights and Privileges

Redemption
Amount

Quarterly
Non-cumulative 
Dividend(1)

Annual

Yield(4)

Date
Redeemable/

Convertible(5)(6)

Convertible to(7)

Preferred Shares - Series 5

Preferred Shares - Series 7

 $ 

 $ 

 25.00 

 25.00 

 $ 

 $ 

 0.275(2) 

 0.390625(3) 

4.40%  

April 30, 2019

Preferred Shares - Series 6

6.25%  

July 31, 2021

Preferred Shares - Series 8

(1) Non-cumulative fixed dividends are payable quarterly as and when declared by the Board of Directors of CWB.
(2) The dividend rate will reset on the date redeemable and every five years thereafter at a level of 276 basis points over the then five-year Government of Canada bond yield. 
(3) The dividend rate will reset on the date redeemable and every five years thereafter at a level of 547 basis points over the then five-year Government of Canada bond yield. 
(4) Based on the stated issue price per share of $25.00.
(5) Redeemable by CWB, subject to the approval of OSFI, on the date noted and every five years thereafter.
(6) Convertible by the shareholders, subject to certain conditions, on the date noted and every five years thereafter if not redeemed by CWB to an equal number of First Preferred Shares Series 6 and Series 8, which are non-cumulative, 

floating rate preferred shares.

(7) If converted, holders of the First Preferred Shares Series 6 and Series 8 will be entitled to receive quarterly floating rate dividends, as and when declared by the Board of Directors of CWB, equal to the 90-day Government of Canada 

Treasury Bill rate plus 276 and 547 basis points, respectively.

Upon the occurrence of a trigger event (as defined by OSFI), each 
preferred share will be automatically converted, without the consent of 
the holders, into CWB common shares. Conversion to common shares 
will be determined by dividing the preferred share conversion value 
($25.00 per preferred share plus any declared but unpaid dividends) by 

the common share value (the greater of (i) the floor price of $5.00 and 
(ii) the current market price calculated as the volume-weighted average 
trading price for the ten consecutive trading days ending on the day 
immediately prior to the date of the conversion).

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

95

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
c) Dividends

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

$0.92 per common share (2015 - $0.86)

$1.10 per preferred share - Series 5 (2015 - $1.10)

$0.91 per preferred share - Series 7 (2015 - nil)(1)

Total

2016 

2015 

 $ 

76,424 

 $ 

69,170 

 5,500 

 5,112 

 5,500 

 - 

 $ 

87,036 

 $ 

74,670 

(1) The Series 7 Preferred Share dividend payment is related to the period from the issuance on March 31, 2016 to October 31, 2016. Thereafter, the annual dividend rate will be $1.5625 per share, payable quarterly, for the initial period 

ending July 31, 2021.

Subsequent to October 31, 2016, the Board of Directors of CWB declared 
a dividend of $0.23 per common share payable on January 5, 2017 to 
shareholders of record on December 15, 2016, a dividend of $0.275 per 
Series 5 preferred share payable on January 31, 2017 to shareholders of 

record on January 20, 2017, and a dividend of $0.390625 per Series 7 
preferred share payable on January 31, 2017 to shareholders of record on 
January 20, 2017. With respect to these dividend declarations, no liability 
was recorded on the consolidated balance sheet at October 31, 2016.

d) Dividend Reinvestment Plan 

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 5 and Series 7 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, 185,111 (2015 – 133,321) common shares were 
issued under the plan from CWB’s treasury with no discount (2015 – no 
discount).

96

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report18. SHARE-BASED PAYMENTS

a) Stock Options

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

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

Options

Balance at beginning of year

Granted

Exercised or exchanged

Forfeited

Expired

Balance at End of Year

Exercisable at End of Year

Further details relating to stock options outstanding and exercisable follow:

CWB has authorized 6,790,509 common shares (2015 – 6,807,137) 
for issuance under the share incentive plan. Of the amount authorized, 
options exercisable into 5,205,794 shares (2015 – 5,232,366) are issued 
and outstanding. The outstanding options 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. Options granted 
after 2015 expire within seven years of date of grant. Previously granted 
options expire within five years of date of grant. Outstanding options 
expire from December 2016 to March 2023.

2016

2015

  Number
 of Options

Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price

Number
  of Options

     5,232,366 

 $ 

30.26 

     4,743,277 

 $ 

610,731 

(149,340)

(78,865)

(409,098)

 23.70 

 25.52 

 33.21 

 29.71 

705,725 

(128,100)

(82,001)

(6,535)

     5,205,794 

     2,599,039 

 $ 

 $ 

29.63 

     5,232,366 

27.44 

     1,488,783 

 $ 

 $ 

Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price

30.76 

 26.13 

 24.23 

 32.77 

 28.99 

30.26 

26.90 

Range of Exercise Prices

$23.70 to $26.13

$26.40 to $28.47

$37.50 to $39.42

Total

Options Outstanding

Options Exercisable

Weighted
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Life (years)

 3.6 

 $ 

 1.2 

 2.4 

 2.3 

 $ 

Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price

25.13 

 27.88 

 38.59 

29.63 

Number
of Options

 481,854 

 $ 

 2,117,185 

 - 

Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price

25.46 

 27.88 

 - 

 2,599,039 

 $ 

27.44 

Number 
of Options

 1,781,798 

 2,117,185 

 1,306,811 

 5,205,794 

All exercised options are settled via cashless settlement, which provides 
the option holder 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. During fiscal 2016, option holders exchanged the 
rights to 149,340 (2015 – 128,100) options and received 16,628 (2015 – 
23,443) shares in return by way of the cashless settlement.

Salary expense of $2,772 (2015 – $4,694) was recognized relating to the 
estimated fair value of options granted.  The fair value of options granted 
during the year was estimated using a binomial option pricing model with 
the following variables and assumptions: (i) risk-free interest rate of 0.8% 
(2015 – 0.7%), (ii) expected option life of 5.0 (2015 – 4.0) years, (iii) 
expected annual volatility of 26% (2015 – 24%), and (iv) expected annual

dividends of 3.8% (2015 – 3.4%). 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 
$3.47 (2015 – $2.96) per share.

During the year, $706 (2015 – $823) was transferred from the share-
based payment reserve to share capital, representing the estimated fair 
value recognized for 149,340 (2015 – 128,100) options exercised during 
the year.

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

97

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
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 employee 
to receive the cash equivalent of the market value of CWB’s common 
shares at the vesting date. Throughout the vesting period, common share 
dividend equivalents accrue to the employee in the form of additional 
units. RSUs vest on each anniversary of the grant in equal one-third 
instalments over a period of three years. Salary expense is recognized over 
the vesting period except where the employee is eligible to retire prior to 

the vesting date, in which case the expense is recognized between the 
grant date and the date the employee is eligible to retire.

During the year, salary expense of $9,514 (2015 – $9,498) was 
recognized related to RSUs. As at October 31, 2016, the liability for the 
RSUs held under this plan was $9,436 (October 31, 2015 – $8,372). At 
the end of each period, the liability and salary expense are adjusted to 
reflect changes in the fair value of the RSUs.

Number of RSUs

Balance at beginning of year

Granted

Vested and paid out

Forfeited

Balance at End of Year

2016 

 638,807 

 442,559 

2015 

 590,847 

 387,332 

 (308,988)

 (318,555)

 (31,134)

 741,244 

 (20,817)

 638,807 

c) Performance Share Units

Under the Performance Share Unit (PSU) plan, certain employees are 
eligible to receive an award in the form of PSUs on an annual basis. At 
the time of a grant, each PSU represents a unit with an underlying value 
equivalent to the value of a CWB common share. Throughout the vesting 
period, common share dividend equivalents accrue to the employee in 
the form of additional units. Under the PSU Plan, each PSU vests at the 
end of a three-year period and is settled in cash.

At the end of each specified performance period, a multiplier based on 
performance targets is applied to a portion of the PSUs originally granted 

and any accrued notional dividends such that the total value of the PSUs 
may vary from 0% to 200% of the value of an equal number of CWB 
common shares. 

During the year, salary expense of $990 (2015 – $372) was recognized 
related to PSUs. As at October 31, 2016, the liability for the PSUs held 
under this plan was $1,876 (October 31, 2015 – $829). At the end 
of each period, the liability and salary expense are adjusted to reflect 
changes in the fair value of the PSUs.

Number of PSUs

Balance at beginning of year

Granted

Balance at End of Year

d) Deferred Share Units

2016 

 91,404 

 86,175 

 177,579 

2015 

 25,305 

 66,099 

 91,404 

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, other non-interest expenses included $624 (2015 – 
$662) related to the DSUs.  As at October 31, 2016, the liability for DSUs 
held under this plan was $3,639 (October 31, 2015 – $2,893). At the end 
of each period, the liability and expense are adjusted to reflect changes in 
the market value of the DSUs.

2016 

2015 

        115,123 

        101,844 

          27,846 

          27,629 

                   - 

        (14,350)

        142,969 

        115,123 

Number of DSUs

Balance at beginning of year

Granted

Paid out

Balance at End of Year

98

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report19. NON-CONTROLLING INTERESTS

Non-controlling interests relate to the following:

McLean & Partners Wealth Management Ltd.

Adroit Investment Management Ltd.

Total

As at 
October 31 
2016 

As at 
October 31 
2015 

 $ 

629 

 $ 

 861 

              144 

             131 

 $ 

773 

 $ 

992 

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.

Credit Instruments

Commitments to extend credit

Guarantees and standby letters of credit

Total

As at 
October 31 
2016 

As at 
October 31 
2015 

 $  4,739,091 

 $  4,829,622 

 492,327 

 465,649 

 $  5,231,418 

 $  5,295,271 

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 $2,265,566 (October 31, 
2015 - $2,547,444) and authorized but unfunded loan commitments 
of $2,473,525 (October 31, 2015 – $2,282,178). 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. The allowance for credit losses related to committed 
but undrawn credit exposures is included in other liabilities on the 
consolidated balance sheets (see Note 15). 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.

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.

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

99

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:

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022 and thereafter

Total

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.

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

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.

 $ 

13,205 

 12,303 

 11,451 

 10,921 

 9,566 

 34,582 

 $ 

92,028 

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.

21. 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 totalled 
$13,267 (2015 – $12,693). 

100

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report22. 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 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.

The provision for income taxes consists of the following:

Consolidated statements of income

Current

Deferred

Other comprehensive income

Tax expense (recovery) related to:

Available-for-sale securities

Derivatives designated as cash flow hedges

Total

2016 

2015 

 $  

65,714 

 $  

73,784 

2,229 

67,943 

(2,465)

71,319 

8,495 

(2,960)

5,535 

(19,630)

4,226 

(15,404)

 $  

73,478 

 $  

55,915 

A reconciliation of the statutory tax rates and income tax that would be payable at these rates to the effective income tax rates and provision for income 
taxes reported in the consolidated statements of income follows:

Combined Canadian federal and provincial income taxes and 

statutory tax rate

Increase (decrease) arising from:

Tax-exempt income

Deferred tax related to tax rate increase(1)

Stock-based compensation

Other

Provision for Income Taxes and Effective Tax Rate

2016

2015

 $  

68,975 

26.8%  $  

74,466 

26.0%

 (2,362)

- 

              745 

              585 

 $  

67,943 

 (0.9)

  -

0.3 

0.2 

(4,141)

(1,753)

            1,209 

            1,538 

(1.4)

(0.6)

0.4 

0.5 

26.4%  $  

71,319 

24.9%

(1) The combined statutory tax rate changed in 2015 as a result of an increase in the Alberta provincial tax rate from 10% to 12% which was substantively enacted effective July 1, 2015.

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

2016 

2015 

 $  

26,260 

 $  

24,488 

12,814 

(6,844)

7,764 

(8,290)

12,730 

(5,102)

(665)

(4,034)

 $  

31,704 

 $  

27,417 

 $  

6,578 

 $  

3,080 

 $  

9,658 

 $  

6,947 

1,407 

8,354 

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

101

    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
            
            
         
            
          
             
                  
                 
          
             
              
              
              
              
            
            
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
23. EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE

Basic earnings per common share is calculated based on the weighted 
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

Common shareholders' net income from Continuing Operations

Common shareholders' net income from Discontinued Operations

Common Shareholders' Net Income

Denominator

2016

2015

 $ 

177,761 

 $ 

208,064 

 - 

 111,637 

 $ 

177,761 

 $ 

319,701 

Weighted average of common shares outstanding - basic

 83,411,226 

 80,441,845 

Dilutive instruments:

Stock options(1)

Weighted Average Number of Common Shares Outstanding - Diluted

Earnings Per Common Share

Basic  

- Continuing Operations

- Combined Operations

- Discontinued Operations

Diluted   - Continuing Operations

- Combined Operations

- Discontinued Operations

 7,941 

 140,205 

 83,419,167 

 80,582,050 

 $ 

2.13 

 $ 

 2.13 

 - 

 2.13 

 2.13 

 - 

2.59 

 3.97 

 1.38 

 2.59 

 3.97 

 1.38 

(1) At October 31, 2016, the denominator excludes 5,205,794 (2015 – 2,642,435) of employee stock options with an average exercise price of $30.02, adjusted for unrecognized stock-based compensation, that is greater than the average 

market price.

102

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report 
 
 
 
24. ASSETS UNDER ADMINISTRATION AND MANAGEMENT

Assets under administration of $10,689,398 (October 31, 2015 – 
$9,293,683) and assets under management of $1,924,181 (October 31, 
2015 – $1,882,736) 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.

25. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

Transactions with and between subsidiary entities are made at normal  
market prices and 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 $105,634 (October 31, 2015 – 
$113,178). 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 $318,569 (October 31, 
2015 – $284,727).

Compensation of key management personnel is as follows:

Salaries, benefits and directors' compensation

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

Termination benefits (included in discontinued operations)

Total

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

Loans outstanding with key management personnel totaled $386 as at 
October 31, 2016 (October 31, 2015 – $405). 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. 

2016 

 $ 

4,815 

 $ 

 3,117 

 - 

 $ 

7,932 

 $ 

2015 

5,156 

 3,203 

 1,244 

9,603 

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

103

26. 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 adjusting the repricing 
behaviour of interest sensitive assets or liabilities to ensure the gap falls 
within the risk appetite of CWB. The repricing profile of these assets and

Asset Liability Gap Positions
($ millions)

liabilities has been incorporated in the table following, which contains 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.

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

October 31, 2016

Assets

Cash resources and securities

 $  

1,394 

 $  

590 

  $ 

11 

 $  

1,995 

 $  

743 

 $   

52 

 $  

2 

 $  

2,792 

Loans(1)

Other assets(2)

Derivative financial instruments(3)

Total

     11,865 

2,469 

4,140 

     18,474 

 - 

150 

- 

500 

- 

950 

- 

1,600 

- 

2,098 

9,812 

     10,321 

1,379 

3,179 

     14,879 

6,971 

208 

Liabilities and Equity

Deposits

Other liabilities(2)

Debt(1)

Equity

Derivative financial instruments(3)

3,722 

Total

Interest Rate Sensitive Gap

Cumulative Gap

Cumulative Gap as a

     11,646 

 $  

 $  

219 

219 

 $  

 $  

7,893 

1,288 

4,149 

     13,330 

7,886 

 - 

31 

 - 

- 

165 

- 

- 

1,453 

1,016 

1,235 

- 

223 

- 

 - 

- 

419 

- 

3,722 

4,372 

     17,471 

 $  

 $  

(232)

1,003 

 $  

 $  

1,003 

1,003 

 $  

 $  

- 

849 

265 

- 

9,000 

812 

1,815 

 $  

 $  

- 

- 

260 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

(96)

469 

148 

523 

(21)

417 

- 

2,078 

124 

2,598 

- 

- 

260 

 $  

(2,075)

2,075 

 $  

 $  

 $  

Percentage of Total Assets

0.8% 

4.2% 

3.5% 

3.5% 

6.2% 

7.1% 

October 31, 2015

Cumulative Gap

Cumulative Gap as a 

 $  

(380)

 $  

(373)

 $  

(906)

 $  

(906)

 $  

1,650 

 $  

1,930 

 $  

- 

 $ 

Percentage of Total Assets

(1.5)%     

(1.4)%     

(3.5)%     

(3.5)%     

6.4% 

7.5% 

- 

(1) 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. 

(2) Accrued interest is excluded in calculating interest sensitive assets and liabilities.
(3) Derivative financial instruments are included in this table at the notional amount.

104

21,962 

469 

3,846 

29,069 

21,195 

417 

1,268 

2,343 

3,846 

29,069 

- 

- 

- 

- 

 - 

CWB Financial Group 2016 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, 2016

Total Assets

Total Liabilities

Interest Rate Sensitive Gap

October 31, 2015

Total Assets

Total Liabilities 

Interest Rate Sensitive Gap

Floating 
Rate
and Within
1 Month

1 to 3
Months

3 Months
to 1 Year

 3.1 % 

 0.9 

 2.2 % 

 3.4 % 

 1.1 

 2.3 %

 2.5 % 

 2.4 

 0.1 % 

 2.7 % 

 1.7 

 1.0 %

 3.7 % 

 1.7 

 2.0 % 

 3.7 % 

 1.8 

 1.9 %

Total
Within
1 Year

 3.2  % 

 1.3 

 1.9  % 

 3.4 % 

 1.3 

 2.1 %

1 Year to
5 Years

More than
5 Years

 3.4 % 

 2.2 

 1.2 % 

 3.4 % 

 2.3 

 1.1 %

 4.1 % 

 - 

 4.1 % 

 1.8 % 

 - 

1.8 %

Total

 3.3 % 

 2.0 

 1.3 %

 3.4 %

 1.6 

 1.8 %

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 2.15% or $12,582 (October 31, 
2015 – decrease 0.61% or $2,989) and decrease other comprehensive 
income $57,109 (October 31, 2015 – $90,099) 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 
0.88% or $5,150 (October 31, 2015 – 0.04% or $201) and increase 
other comprehensive income $58,646 (October 31, 2015 – $87,091), net 
of tax.

27. 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, 
subordinated debentures and debt securities 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. 
The table also excludes assets and liabilities which are considered financial 
instruments, but are not recorded at fair value and for which the carrying 
amount approximates fair value.

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

105

October 31, 2016(1)

Financial Assets

Cash resources  

Securities  

Securities purchased under resale

agreements

Loans(2)

Derivative related

Total Financial Assets

Financial Liabilities

Deposits(2)

Debt

Contingent consideration

Derivative related

Loans and
Receivables,
and
Non-trading
Liabilities

Derivatives

Available-
for-sale

Total
Carrying
Amount

Fair Value

(Note 4)

 $ 

- 

 $ 

- 

 $ 

920,056 

 $ 

920,056 

 $ 

920,056 

 $ 

(Note 5)

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 22,049,997 

 10,370 

 - 

 1,708,594 

 1,708,594 

 1,708,594 

 163,318 

 163,318 

 163,318 

 - 

 - 

 22,049,997 

 22,376,753 

 326,756 

 10,370 

 10,370 

 - 

 $ 

10,370 

 $  22,049,997 

 $  2,791,968 

 $  24,852,335 

 $  25,179,091 

 $ 

326,756 

 $ 

- 

 $  21,215,842 

 $ 

- 

 $  21,215,842 

 $  21,281,835 

 $ 

65,993 

 - 

 - 

 1,268,198 

 24,257 

 7,172 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 1,268,198 

 1,271,036 

 2,838 

 24,257 

 7,172 

 24,257 

 7,172 

 - 

 - 

Fair Value
Over
Carrying
Amount

- 

 - 

 - 

Total Financial Liabilities

 $ 

7,172 

 $  22,508,297 

 $ 

- 

 $  22,515,469 

 $  22,584,300 

 $ 

68,831 

October 31, 2015

Financial Assets

Cash resources  

Securities  

Loans(2)

Derivative related

Total Financial Assets

Financial Liabilities

Deposits(2)

Debt

Contingent consideration

Derivative related

Total Financial Liabilities

Loans and
Receivables,
and
Non-trading
Liabilities

Derivatives

Available-
for-sale

Total
Carrying
Amount

Fair Value

(Note 4)

 $ 

- 

 $ 

- 

 $ 

443,422 

 $ 

443,422 

 $ 

443,422 

 $ 

 - 

 2,551,112 

 2,551,112 

 2,551,112 

Fair Value
Over
Carrying
Amount

- 

 - 

(Note 5)

 - 

 - 

 19,541,676 

 23,245 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 19,541,676 

 19,889,076 

 347,400 

 23,245 

 23,245 

 - 

 $ 

23,245 

 $  19,541,676 

 $  2,994,534 

 $  22,559,455 

 $  22,906,855 

 $ 

347,400 

 $ 

- 

 $  19,384,468 

 $ 

- 

 $  19,384,468 

 $  19,457,102 

 $ 

72,634 

 - 

 - 

 4,503 

 1,187,623 

 650 

 - 

 $ 

4,503 

 $  20,572,741 

 $ 

 - 

 - 

 - 

- 

 1,187,623 

 1,206,101 

 18,478 

 650 

 4,503 

 650 

 4,503 

 - 

 - 

 $  20,577,244 

 $  20,668,356 

 $ 

91,112 

(1) For further information on interest rates associated with financial assets and liabilities, including derivative instruments, refer to Note 26.
(2) Loans and deposits exclude deferred premiums, deferred revenue and allowances for credit losses, which are not financial instruments.

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 4 and 5. Securities purchased 
under resale agreements are reported at the fair value as disclosed on 
the consolidated balance sheets. 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;

•  Fair value of loans reflects changes in the general level of interest 

rates that have occurred since the loans were originated and exclude 
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;

•  With the exception of derivative financial instruments and acquisition 
contingent consideration, other assets and other liabilities reported 
on the consolidated balance sheets are either not considered financial 
instruments, or are assumed to approximate their carrying value due 
to their short-term nature.  Other assets and other liabilities which are 
not considered financial instruments include property and equipment, 
goodwill and other intangible assets, deferred tax asset, prepaid and 
deferred expenses, financing costs, deferred tax liability, deferred 
revenue, and other items that are not financial instruments;

•  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;

106

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report•  For contingent consideration, included in other liabilities, where an 
active market does not exist, fair value is determined by estimating 
the expected value of the contingent consideration, taking into 
consideration the potential financial outcomes and their associated 
probabilities; 

•  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 
according to a three-level hierarchy. Level 1 fair value measurements 
reflect unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets 
and liabilities that CWB can access at the measurement date.  Level 
2 fair value measurements were estimated using observable inputs, 
including quoted market prices for similar assets or liabilities in active 
markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in 
inactive markets, and model inputs that are either observable or can be 
corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of 
the assets or liabilities. Level 3 fair value measurements were determined 
using one or more inputs that are unobservable and significant to the fair 
value of the asset or liability. Unobservable inputs are used to measure 
fair value to the extent that observable inputs are not available at the 
measurement date.

As at October 31, 2016

Financial Assets

Cash resources

Securities

Securities purchased under resale agreements

Loans

Derivative related

Total Financial Assets

Financial Liabilities

Deposits

Debt

Contingent consideration(1)

Derivative related

Total Financial Liabilities

As at October 31, 2015

Financial Assets

Cash resources

Securities

Loans

Derivative related

Total Financial Assets

Financial Liabilities

Deposits

Debt

Contingent consideration(1)

Derivative related

Total Financial Liabilities

Valuation Technique

Fair Value

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

- 

 - 

 - 

- 

 - 

 $ 

920,056 

 $ 

45,426 

 $ 

874,630 

 $ 

 1,708,594 

 322,509 

 1,386,085 

 163,318 

 22,376,753 

 10,370 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 163,318 

 - 

 22,376,753 

 10,370 

 - 

 $  25,179,091 

 $ 

367,935 

 $  2,434,403 

 $  22,376,753 

 $  21,281,835 

 $ 

- 

 $  21,281,835 

 $ 

 1,271,036 

 24,257 

 7,172 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 1,271,036 

 - 

 24,257 

 7,172 

 - 

 $  22,584,300 

 $ 

- 

 $  22,560,043 

 $ 

24,257 

Valuation Technique

Fair Value

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

 $ 

443,422 

 $ 

27,939 

 $ 

415,483 

 $ 

 2,551,112 

 219,041 

 2,332,071 

- 

 - 

 19,889,076 

 23,245 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 19,889,076 

 23,245 

 - 

 $  22,906,855 

 $ 

246,980 

 $  2,770,799 

 $  19,889,076 

 $  19,457,102 

 $ 

- 

 $  19,457,102 

 1,206,101 

 650 

 4,503 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 1,206,101 

 - 

 4,503 

 $  20,668,356 

 $ 

- 

 $  20,667,706 

 $ 

 - 

 - 

 650 

 - 

650 

(1) The Level 3 financial liability at October 31, 2016 is related to the acquisition of CWB Maxium as described in Note 3. At October 31, 2015, Level 3 financial liabilities were comprised of contingent consideration related to a business 

sold in 2015 as described in Note 3.

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

107

b) Level 3 Financial Instruments Carried at Fair Value

The Level 3 financial liability measured at fair value on the consolidated 
balance sheet as at October 31, 2016 is related to the acquisition of CWB 
Maxium (see Note 3). Contingent consideration related to a business sold 
in 2015 was extinguished during 2016 with no payment required. Fair 

value is determined by estimating the expected value of the contingent 
consideration, taking into consideration the potential financial outcomes 
and their associated probabilities. 

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

Business Acquisitions  

Balance at beginning of year

Business acquisition 

Contingent consideration fair value changes 

Settlement of contingent consideration

Business Dispositions  

Balance at beginning of year

Contingent consideration fair value changes 

Extinguishment of contingent consideration 

(Note 3) 

(Note 3) 

2016

2015

 $  

- 

 $  

2,679 

16,400 

7,857 

- 

638 

 - 

(3,317)

24,257 

650 

- 

(650)

- 

- 

- 

650 

- 

650 

650 

Balance at end of year

 $  

24,257 

 $  

28. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS - OFFSETTING

The following table provides a summary of financial assets and liabilities 
which are subject to enforceable master netting agreements and similar 
arrangements, as well as financial collateral received to mitigate credit 
exposures related to these financial instruments. The agreements do 

not meet the netting criteria required by IAS 32 Financial Instruments: 
Presentation as the right to set-off is only enforceable in the event of 
default or occurrence of other predetermined events.

As at October 31, 2016

Financial Assets

Derivative instruments

Financial Liabilities

Derivative instruments

As at October 31, 2015

Financial Assets

Derivative instruments

Financial Liabilities

Derivative instruments

Amounts not offset on the consolidated balance sheet

Gross amounts 
reported on the 
consolidated 
balance sheet

Impact of 
master netting 
agreements

Cash 
collateral(1)

Securities 
received as

collateral(1)(2)

Net amount

$ 

$ 

10,370 

 $ 

4,345 

 $  

5,730 

 $  

49 

 $ 

246 

7,172 

 $ 

4,345 

 $  

2,121 

 $  

- 

 $ 

706 

Amounts not offset on the consolidated balance sheet

Gross amounts 
reported on the 
consolidated 
balance sheet

Impact of 
master netting 
agreements

Cash 
collateral(1)

Securities 
received as

collateral(1)(2)

Net amount

 $ 

 $ 

23,245 

 $ 

4,503 

 $  

9,535 

 $  

4,503 

 $ 

4,503 

 $  

- 

 $  

- 

- 

 $ 

 $ 

9,207 

- 

(1) Financial collateral is reflected at fair value. The amount of financial instruments and cash collateral disclosed is limited to the net balance sheet exposure, and any over-collateralization is excluded from the table. 
(2) Collateral received in the form of securities is not recognized on the consolidated balance sheets.

108

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report    
    
    
    
 
 
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
29. RISK MANAGEMENT

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, market risk, capital risk and operational 
risk. The nature of these risks and how they are managed is provided in 
the Risk Management section of the MD&A.

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

30. CAPITAL MANAGEMENT

Capital funds are managed in accordance with policies and plans that are 
regularly reviewed and approved by the Board of Directors or Board Risk 
Committee 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.

Regulatory capital and capital ratios are calculated in accordance with 
the requirements of OSFI. 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. 

the MD&A. The relevant MD&A sections are identified by shading 
within boxes and the content forms an integral part of these audited 
consolidated financial statements.

Information on specific measures of risk, including the allowance for 
credit losses, derivative financial instruments, interest rate sensitivity, fair 
value of financial instruments and liability for unpaid claims are included 
elsewhere in these notes to the consolidated financial statements.

The required minimum regulatory capital ratios for a bank using the 
Standardized approach for credit risk, including a 250 basis point capital 
conservation buffer, are 7.0% common equity Tier 1 (CET1), 8.5% Tier 
1 and 10.5% total capital. In addition, OSFI requires banks and trust 
companies to maintain a minimum leverage ratio of 3%. The leverage 
ratio provides the ratio of Tier 1 capital to on-balance sheet and off-
balance sheet exposures.

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 2016 inclusion of non-qualifying 
capital instruments in non-common Tier 1 (WesTS) and total capital 
(subordinated debentures) under Basel III are capped at 60% (October 
31, 2015 – 70%) of the balance of non-common equity instruments 
outstanding at January 1, 2013.  At October 31, 2016, there were no 
exclusions from regulatory capital related to the WesTS Tier 1 capital 
(disclosed in deposits) or outstanding subordinated debentures (October 
31, 2015 – $152,500).

On July 7, 2016, CWB issued 6,125,000 common shares at a price of 
$24.50 per share for gross proceeds of $150,063 (see Note 17), which 
increased the CET1 capital ratio by approximately 70 basis points. The 
issuance of 5,600,000 Series 7 Preferred Shares for gross proceeds 
of $140,000 on March 31, 2016 positively impacted the Tier 1 and 
total capital ratios by approximately 70 basis points. The $300 million 
redemption of all 4.389% subordinated debentures on November 30, 
2015, which did not qualify as non-viability contingent capital under the 
Basel III regulatory capital requirements, decreased the total capital ratio 
by approximately 80 basis points. 

In fiscal 2017, the redemption of all outstanding WesTS will reduce both 
the Tier 1 and total capital ratios by approximately 50 basis points.

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

Leverage ratio

2016

2015

 $ 

1,863,264 

 $ 

1,636,718 

 2,233,364 

 2,669,334 

 1,866,873 

 2,439,022 

 9.2 % 

 11.0 

 13.1 

 8.6 

 8.5 %

 9.7 

 12.7 

 7.9 

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

109

31. SUBSIDIARIES

CWB Subsidiaries(1)
(annexed in accordance with subsection 308 (3) of the Bank Act)

October 31, 2016

National Leasing Group Inc.

CWB Maxium Financial Inc.

Address of
Head Office

1525 Buffalo Place
Winnipeg, Manitoba

30 Vogell Road, Suite 1

Richmond Hill, Ontario

Canadian Western Trust Company

Suite 3000, 10303 Jasper Avenue

Edmonton, Alberta

McLean & Partners Wealth Management Ltd.

801 10th Avenue SW

Calgary, Alberta

Adroit Investment Management Ltd.

Suite 1250, 10303 Jasper Avenue

Valiant Trust Company

Edmonton, Alberta

Suite 3000, 10303 Jasper Avenue

Edmonton, Alberta

CWB Wealth Management Ltd.

Suite 3000, 10303 Jasper Avenue

Edmonton, Alberta

Canadian Western Bank Capital Trust

Suite 3000, 10303 Jasper Avenue

Edmonton, Alberta

Canadian Western Bank Leasing Inc.

Suite 3000, 10303 Jasper Avenue

Edmonton, Alberta

Canadian Western Financial Ltd.

Suite 3000, 10303 Jasper Avenue

Edmonton, Alberta

Carrying Value of
Voting Shares Owned

by CWB(2)

 $ 134,458 

 30,812 

 19,136 

 17,481 

 8,449 

 8,080 

 1,750 

 1,000 

 1 

 1 

(1) CWB owns 100% of the voting shares of each entity, with the exception of Adroit Investment Management Ltd. (84.0% ownership) and McLean & Partners Wealth Management Ltd. (October 31, 2016 – 73.6% ownership).
(2) The carrying value of voting shares is stated at the cost of CWB’s equity in the subsidiaries in thousands of dollars.

110

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report 
 
 
Shareholder Information

CWB Group Corporate 
Headquarters
Suite 3000, 10303 Jasper Avenue NW 
Canadian Western Bank Place 
Edmonton, AB T5J 3X6 
Telephone: (780) 423-8888 
Fax: (780) 423-8897 
Website: cwb.com

Transfer Agent and Registrar
Computershare 
100 University Avenue, 8th Floor 
Toronto, ON M5J 2Y1 
Telephone: (416) 263-9200 
Toll-free: 1-800-564-6253 
Fax: (888) 453-0330 
Website: computershare.com

Stock Exchange Listings
The Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) 
Common Shares: CWB 
Series 5 Preferred Shares: CWB.PR.B 
Series 7 Preferred Shares: CWB.PR.C

Shareholder Administration
Computershare 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 inquire online at  
computershare.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, 10303 Jasper Avenue N.W. 
Canadian Western Bank Place 
Edmonton, AB T5J 3X6 
Telephone: (800) 836-1886 
Fax: (780) 969-8326 
E-mail: 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 in the 
Investor Relations section at cwb.com.

This 2016 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 
sedar.com.

2017 Annual Meeting
The annual meeting of the common 
shareholders of Canadian Western 
Bank will be held in Edmonton, AB, on 
March 2, 2017 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, 
Chief Legal Officer and
Corporate Secretary
Canadian Western Bank 
Suite 3000, 10303 Jasper Avenue N.W. 
Edmonton, AB T5J 3X6 
Telephone: (780) 969-1525 
Fax: (780) 969-1503

Complaints or Concerns 
regarding Accounting, Internal 
Accounting Controls or 
Auditing Matters
Please contact either: 

Commercial and  
Retail Banking
Jeff Bowling 
Senior Vice President and  
Regional General Manager, Prairies

Mario Furlan 
Senior Vice President and 
Regional General Manager,  
British Columbia 

Michael Halliwell 
Senior Vice President and Regional 
General Manager, Northern Alberta 

Keith Hughes 
Senior Vice President, 
Business and Personal Banking

National Leasing 
Tom Pundyk  
President and Chief Executive Officer

Canadian Western Trust
Matt Colpitts 
Vice President and General Manager

CWB Wealth Management
David Schaffner 
President and 
Chief Executive Officer

Adroit Investment 
Management
Maria Holowinsky 
President and 
Chief Executive Officer

McLean & Partners  
Wealth Management
Kevin Dehod 
President and 
Chief Executive Officer

CWB Maxium Financial
Paul McLean 
Chief Executive Officer 

Daryl MacLellan 
President

Ombudsmen
R. Graham Gilbert

Carolyn J. Graham 
Executive Vice President and Chief 
Financial Officer 
Canadian Western Bank 
Telephone: (780) 423-8854 
Fax: (780) 423-8899 
E-mail: carolyn.graham@cwbank.com

or

Robert A. Manning 
Chairman of the Audit Committee 
c/o 210 – 5324 Calgary Trail 
Edmonton, AB T6H 4J8 
Telephone: (780) 438-2626 
Fax: (780) 438-2632 
E-mail: rmanning@shawbiz.ca 

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

Carolyn J. Graham, FCPA, FCA 
Executive Vice President and 
Chief Financial Officer

Kelly S. Blackett  
Executive Vice President, Human 
Resources and Corporate 
Communications

Glen Eastwood 
Executive Vice President, Business 
Transformation

Darrell Jones 
Executive Vice President, Chief 
Technology Officer and Chief 
Information Officer

Stephen Murphy 
Executive Vice President, Banking

H. Bogac (Bogie) Ozdemir 
Executive Vice President and 
Chief Risk Officer

Senior Corporate Officers 
Niall Boles 
Senior Vice President and Treasurer 

David L. Thompson 
Senior Vice President, 
Credit Risk Management

Gail L. Harding, Q.C. 
Senior Vice President, 
Chief Legal Officer and
Corporate Secretary

Allen D. Stephen, CPA, CA 
Vice President and 
Chief Accountant

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Report

111

Locations

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

Northern Alberta 
3000, 10303 Jasper Avenue N.W.  
Edmonton 
(780) 423-8888 
Michael Halliwell

Prairies 
606 - 4 Street S.W. 
Calgary 
(403) 262-8700 
Jeff Bowling

Equipment Financing 
3000, 10303 Jasper Avenue N.W. 
Edmonton 
(780) 441-3770 
Kirby Hill

BRANCHES 
Alberta
Edmonton 
Edmonton Main  
100, 12230 Jasper Avenue N.W. 
(780) 424-4846 
George Bawden

103 Street 
10303 Jasper Avenue N.W. 
(780) 423-8801 
Bruce Young

Old Strathcona 
7933 - 104 Street N.W. 
(780) 433-4286 
Donna Austin

South Edmonton Common 
2142 - 99 Street N.W. 
(780) 988-8607 
Robert Ovics

West Point 
17603 - 100 Avenue N.W. 
(780) 484-7407 
David Hardy

Calgary 
Calgary Main 
606 - 4 Street S.W. 
(403) 262-8700 
Dean Proctor

Calgary Chinook 
6606 Macleod Trail S.W. 
(403) 252-2299  
Rick Vandergraaf

Calgary Foothills 
6127 Barlow Trail S.E. 
(403) 269-9882 
Dustin Jones

Calgary Northeast 
2810 - 32 Avenue N.E. 
(403) 250-8838 
June Lavigueur

112

CWB Optimum Mortgage
Edmonton 
#1010, 10303 Jasper Avenue N.W. 
(780) 423-9748 
Toll-free: 1-866-441-3775 
optimummortgage.ca 
(Representation across Western 
Canada and in Ontario)

CWB Maxium Financial 
Richmond Hill

30 Vogell Road #1 
(905) 780-6150 
cwbmaxium.com

CWB Wealth 
Management
Edmonton

3000, 10303 Jasper Avenue N.W. 
(855) 292-9655

Adroit Investment 
Management  
Edmonton

1250, 10303 Jasper Avenue N.W. 
(780) 429-3500 
adroitinvestments.ca

McLean & Partners 
Wealth Management
Calgary 
801 - 10 Avenue S.W. 
(403) 234-0005 
Toll-free: 1-888-665-0005 
mcleanpartners.com

Canadian Western  
Financial 
Edmonton 
3000, 10303 Jasper Avenue N.W. 
(780) 423-8888 
canadianwesternfinancial.com

Calgary South Trail Crossing 
300, 5222 - 130 Avenue S.E. 
(403) 257-8235 
Nancy Matheos

Abbotsford 
100, 2548 Clearbrook Road 
(604) 855-4941 
Hugh Ellis

Broker Buying Centre 
285, 2880 Glenmore Trail S.E. 
(403) 720-8960 
David Miller

Coquitlam 
310, 101 Schoolhouse Street 
(604) 540-8829 
Dave McGregor

Calgary Westjet  
Banking Centre 
22 Aerial Place N.W. 
Westjet Campus 
(403) 452-5869

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

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 
Romi Arora

Kelowna 
Kelowna 
1674 Bertram Street 
(250) 862-8008 
Bob Brown

Medicine Hat 
101, 2810 - 13 Avenue S.E. 
(403) 527-7321 
Daniel Kitching

Kelowna Industrial 
101, 1505 Harvey Avenue 
(250) 860-0088 
Jim Kruiper

Red Deer 
4822 - 51 Avenue 
(403) 341-4000 
Don Odell

Sherwood Park 
251 Palisades Way 
(780) 449-6699 
Arden Vos

St. Albert 
300 - 700 St. Albert Trail 
(780) 458-4001 
Blair Zahara

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 
Jennifer Drury

West Broadway 
110, 1333 West Broadway 
(604) 730-8818 
Lawrence Robinson

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

Nanaimo 
101, 6475 Metral Drive 
(250) 390-0088 
Kevin Wilson

Prince George  
300 Victoria Street 
(250) 612-0123 
Derek Dougherty

Richmond 
4991 No. 3 Road 
(604) 238-2800 
Dean Chan

Surrey 
Panorama Ridge 
103, 15230 Highway 10 
(604) 575-3783 
Scott Bearss

Strawberry Hill 
1, 7548 - 120 Street 
(604) 591-1898 
Bob Duffield

Victoria 
1201 Douglas Street 
(250) 383-1206 
Bob Granger

Saskatchewan
Lloydminster 
2909 - 50 Avenue 
(306) 825-8410 
Alan Wells 

Regina  
1866 Hamilton Street 
Hill Tower III 
(306) 757-8888 
Kelly Dennis

Saskatoon  
Saskatoon City Centre 
244 - 2 Avenue South 
(306) 477-8888 
Kelly Walker

Saskatoon North Landing 
101, 2803 Faithfull Avenue 
(306) 244-8008 
Byron Eberle

Yorkton 
5, 259 Hamilton Road 
(306) 782-1002 
Kelly Price

Manitoba
Winnipeg 
Winnipeg 
230 Portage Avenue 
(204) 956-4669 
Mike McAulay

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

National Leasing Group 
Winnipeg 
1525 Buffalo Place 
(204) 954-9000 
Toll-free: 1-800-882-0560 
nationalleasing.com 
(Representation across all 
provinces and territories in 
Canada)

Canadian Direct Financial 
Edmonton 
3000, 10303 Jasper Avenue N.W. 
(780) 441-2249 
Toll-free: 1-877-441-2249 
canadiandirectfinancial.com

Canadian Western Trust 
Toll-free: 1-800-663-1124 
cwt.ca

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

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

CWB Financial Group 2016 Annual Reportcwb.com