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FY2019 Annual Report · Nano Labs Ltd
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ANNUAL REPORT

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® The NATIONAL BANK logo is a registered trademark of National Bank of Canada.

 
 
HHeeaadd  OOffffiiccee  
National Bank of Canada 
600 De La Gauchetière Street West, 4th Floor 
Montreal, Quebec  H3B 4L2  Canada  

Telephone:   514-394-5000 
Website:  

nbc.ca 

AAnnnnuuaall  MMeeeettiinngg    
The Annual Meeting of Holders of Common Shares of the Bank will be held on 
April 24, 2020, at National Bank of Canada’s head Office in Montreal, Quebec, 
Canada. 

PPuubblliicc  AAccccoouunnttaabbiilliittyy  SSttaatteemmeenntt    
The 2019 Social Responsibility Report will be available in March 2020 on the 
Bank’s website at nbc.ca. 

CCoommmmuunniiccaattiioonn  wwiitthh  SShhaarreehhoollddeerrss  
For  information  about  stock  transfers,  address  changes,  dividends,  lost 
certificates,  tax  forms  and  estate  transfers,  shareholders  of  record  may 
contact the Transfer Agent at the following address:   

CCoommppuutteerrsshhaarree  TTrruusstt  CCoommppaannyy  ooff  CCaannaaddaa  
Share Ownership Management 
100 University Avenue, 8th Floor 
Toronto, Ontario  M5J 2Y1  Canada 

Telephone:   1-888-838-1407 
1-888-453-0330 
Fax:   
service@computershare.com 
E-mail:  
computershare.com 
Website:  

CCaauuttiioonn  RReeggaarrddiinngg  FFoorrwwaarrdd--LLooookkiinngg  SSttaatteemmeennttss  
From  time  to  time,  National  Bank  of  Canada  makes  written  and  oral 
forward-looking statements, including in this Annual Report, in other filings 
with Canadian regulators, in reports to shareholders, in press releases and in 
other  communications.  All  such  statements  are  made  pursuant  to  the 
Canadian and American securities legislation and the provisions of the United 
States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. 

Additional information about these statements can be found on page 13 of this 
Annual Report. 

TTrraaddeemmaarrkkss    
The trademarks belonging to National Bank of Canada and used in this report 
include National Bank of Canada, Private Wealth 1859, CashPerformer, NBC 
CapS II, NBC Asset Trust, NBC Capital Trust, and National Bank All-in-One and 
their  respective  logos.  Certain  trademarks  owned  by  third  parties  are  also 
mentioned in this report. 

PPoouurr  oobbtteenniirr  uunnee  vveerrssiioonn  ffrraannççaaiissee  dduu  RRaappppoorrtt  aannnnuueell,,    
vveeuuiilllleezz  vvoouuss  aaddrreesssseerr  àà  ::  
Relations avec les investisseurs 
Banque Nationale du Canada 
600, rue De La Gauchetière Ouest, 7e étage 
Montréal (Québec)  H3B 4L2  Canada 

Téléphone :    
Adresse électronique :   relationsinvestisseurs@bnc.ca 

1 866 517-5455 

LLeeggaall  DDeeppoossiitt  
ISBN 978-2-921835-63-3 
Legal deposit – Bibliothèque et Archives nationales du Québec, 2019 
Legal deposit – Library and Archives Canada, 2019 

Shareholders  whose shares are held by a market intermediary are asked to 
contact the market intermediary concerned. 

PPrriinnttiinngg  
L’Empreinte 

Other shareholder inquiries can be addressed to: 
Investor Relations 
National Bank of Canada 
National Bank Tower 
600 De La Gauchetière Street West, 7th Floor 
Montreal, Quebec  H3B 4L2  Canada 

Telephone:   1-866-517-5455 
E-mail:  
Website:  

investorrelations@nbc.ca 
nbc.ca/investorrelations 

NNoorrmmaall  CCoouurrssee  IIssssuueerr  BBiidd 
The  Bank  began  a  normal  course  issuer  bid  (NCIB)  to  repurchase  for 
cancellation up to 6,000,000 common shares for the period starting June 10, 
2019  and  ending  June  9,  2020.  Shareholders  may  obtain,  free  of  charge,  a 
copy of the notice of intent regarding this NCIB, which was approved by the 
Toronto Stock Exchange, by writing to the Corporate Secretary, National Bank 
of Canada, 600 De La Gauchetière Street West, 4th floor, Montreal, Quebec, 
Canada H3B 4L2. 

National Bank of Canada is proud to help save the environment by using 
EcoLogo and Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) certified paper. 

At a Glance

Founded  in  1859,  National  Bank  of  Canada  offers 
financial services to individuals, businesses, institutional 
clients and governments across Canada. We are one  
of  Canada’s  six  systemically  important  banks  and  
among the most profitable banks on a global basis by 
return on equity.

We  operate  through  three  business  segments  in 
Canada—Personal and Commercial Banking, Wealth 
Management and Financial Markets—which represent  
our main sources of revenue. A fourth segment—U.S. 
Specialty Finance and International—complements the 
growth of our domestic operations.

We are a leading bank in our core Quebec market and 
also hold leadership positions across the country in 
selected activities.

We  strive  to  meet  the  highest  standards  of  social 
responsibility while creating value for our shareholders. 
We are proud to be recognized as an employer of 
choice and for promoting diversity and inclusion. 

We are headquartered in Montreal, and our securities 
are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: NA).

Table of Contents

  3  Message From the President  

and Chief Executive Officer

  5  Members of the Office of the President

  6  Message From the Chairman of the Board

7  Members of the Board of Directors

  8  Our One Mission

  9  Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG)

  12  Risk Disclosures

  13  Management’s Discussion and Analysis

  111  Audited Consolidated Financial Statements

 212  Statistical Review

 214  Glossary of Financial Terms

 216  Information for Shareholders

2.7 million Clients(1)
25,487 Employees(2)
495 Branches(3)
1,480 Banking Machines(4)
$565 B Assets Under Administration 
$281 B Total Assets
$7,432 M Total Revenues
$2,322 M Net Income
$22.7 B Market Capitalization

and Under Management

9% 

23% 

45% 

23% 

19% 

26% 

55% 

2019 Total Revenues by 
Business Segment(5)

2019 Total Revenues by 
Geographic Distribution(5)

Personal and Commercial

Province of Quebec

Wealth Management

Financial Markets

Other Canadian provinces

Outside of Canada

U.S. Specialty Finance and International

(1 ) Clients of the Personal and Commercial segment
(2) Worldwide
(3) 422 in Canada, 70 in Cambodia and 3 in the United States (Florida)
(4) 939 in Canada and 541 in Cambodia
(5)  Excluding the Other heading

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Investing in  
National Bank

Strong Earnings Growth(1)
2015–2019 / CAGR (2)

>  Canadian super-regional bank with leading franchise in core  

Quebec market

+ 8.9%

  –  Favourable economic conditions in both Quebec and Canada

>  Targeted growth strategy across Canada and focused international 

strategy delivering high returns

>  Transformation driving efficiencies and enhanced customer experience

>  Strong credit quality supported by sound geographic and  

product diversification

Consistent Dividend Growth (3)
2015–2019 / CAGR (2)

>  Industry-leading ROE (5)

>  Strong capital position providing flexibility

+ 6.9%

>  Attractive dividend yield and consistent annual dividend growth

>  Track record of delivering superior total shareholder returns

2019 RETURN 

ON EQUITY 18.0%

Solid Capital Position (4)
As at October 31, 2019

Industry-Leading Total Shareholder Returns (CAGR(2)) 
(for the periods ended October 31, 2019)

11.7%

National Bank

Canadian Peers(6)

TSX

Ranking(7)

1 year

3 years

10 years

18.9%

17.1%

13.9%

8.4%

9.4%

11.4%

13.1%

7.1%

7.4%

# 1

# 1

# 1

(1 ) Based on diluted earnings per share
(2) Compound annual growth rate
(3)  Based on annual dividends per common share
(4) Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) capital ratio
(5)  Based on adjusted ROE as reported by Canadian peers, including Bank of Montreal, Canadian Imperial  

Bank of Commerce, Royal Bank of Canada, Bank of Nova Scotia and Toronto-Dominion Bank
(6) Includes Bank of Montreal, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, Royal Bank of Canada,  

Bank of Nova Scotia and Toronto-Dominion Bank

(7)  Among Canadian peers, as defined above

National Bank of Canada
2019 Annual Report

1

 
Financial 
Overview

Medium-Term Objectives and 2019 Results

Growth in diluted earnings per share excluding specified items(1)

ROE excluding specified items(1)

Dividend payout ratio excluding specified items(1)

CET1 capital ratio

Leverage ratio

Financial Highlights

Medium-term 
objectives

5–10%

15–20%

40–50%

> 10.75%

> 3.75%

2019 results

  7.1 %

 18.0 %

 41.6 %

  11.7 %

  4.0 %

As at October 31 or for the year ended October 31 
(millions of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)

Operating results
Total revenues
Net income
Diluted earnings per share
Return on common shareholdersʼ equity 
Operating results on a taxable equivalent basis and excluding specified items(1)
Total revenues on a taxable equivalent basis and excluding specified items
Net income excluding specified items
Diluted earnings per share excluding specified items
Return on common shareholders’ equity excluding specified items
Dividend payout ratio excluding specified items
Efficiency ratio on a taxable equivalent basis and excluding specified items

Dividends declared
Total assets  

Regulatory ratios under Basel III  
Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) capital ratio
Leverage ratio
Liquidity coverage ratio (LCR)

2019

2018

% change

 7,432
 2,322 
$ 6.34

 7,166 
 2,232 
$ 5.94 

 18.0  %

 18.4  %

 7,666 
 2,328 
$ 6.36

 18.0  %
 42  %
 54.5  %

 7,411
 2,232 
$ 5.94

 18.4  %
 41  %
 54.8  %

$ 2.66 

 281,458

$ 2.44 

 262,471 

11.7 %
4.0 %
146 %

 11.7  %
 4.0  % 
 147  % 

 4 
 4 
7

 3 
 4 
 7

9

7

(1 ) 

See the Financial Reporting Method section on pages 14 and 15 for additional information on non-GAAP financial measures.

2

National Bank of Canada
2019 Annual Report

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
MMeessssaaggee  FFrroomm  tthhee  PPrreessiiddeenntt  aanndd  CChhiieeff  EExxeeccuuttiivvee  OOffffiicceerr    

AAnnootthheerr  SSttrroonngg  YYeeaarr  ffoorr  NNaattiioonnaall  BBaannkk  
Fiscal 2019 was another strong year for National Bank. Across the Bank, 
we  achieved  solid  business  growth  and  record  profitability.  Our 
performance reflects our commitment to delivering consistent value to all 
stakeholders:  our  clients,  our  employees,  our  shareholders  and  our 
communities.  

In 2019, we generated diluted earnings per share of $6.34, up 7% from 
last year, and we met all of our medium-term objectives. Our credit quality 
is  excellent, 
lending.  Our 
transformation translated into further improvements in our efficiency ratio. 
Again  this  year,  we  delivered  an  industry-leading  return  on  equity  of 
18.0%. 

reflecting  our  prudent  approach 

to 

National Bank’s share price reached new highs in 2019, and the Bank is in 
the unique position of having delivered industry-leading compound annual 
total  shareholder  returns  of  18.9%,  17.1%,  13.9%  and  15.1%  over  the 
one, three, ten and twenty-year periods, respectively. 

National Bank’s share price reached new 
highs  in  2019,  and  the  Bank  is  in  the 
unique  position  of  having  delivered 
industry-leading compound annual total 
shareholders returns, […] 

Our capital deployment strategy is clear and remains unchanged. Our top 
priority is to maintain strong capital levels, providing us with the flexibility 
to invest in growth initiatives in our core markets and to return capital to 
shareholders.  In  2019,  we  raised  our  dividend  by  9%  and  returned 
$281 million of additional capital through share repurchases. 

WWeellll--PPoossiittiioonneedd  ffoorr  GGrroowwtthh  
As a Canadian super-regional bank with a leading franchise in Quebec, we 
continue to benefit from favourable economic conditions both in our home 
province  and  across  Canada.  The  Quebec  economy  remains  strong,  with 
historically low unemployment rates, sound public finances and housing 
affordability well above the national average. 

At this point of the economic cycle, we remain very comfortable with our 
business positioning and our prudent approach to risk. As we are entering 
a new year, we will maintain our overweight positions in the province of 
Quebec as well as in secured lending, which we view as favourable in the 
current environment. We will  also  continue to strive to  achieve the right 
balance  between  volume  growth,  healthy  margins,  and  strong  credit 
quality.  Our  overall  objective  is  to  position  the  Bank  to  perform  well 
through the cycle. 

At  this  point  of  the  economic  cycle,  we 
remain  very  comfortable  with  our 
business  positioning  and  our  prudent 
approach to risk. […] Our overall objective 
is  to  position  the  Bank  to  perform  well 
through the cycle.  

Our  Personal  and  Commercial  Banking  segment  is  benefitting  from  our 
strong market position in Quebec. In the retail market, we are deepening 
relationships  with  clients,  focusing  on  advice  and  leveraging  our  digital 
platforms  to  create  a  compelling  and  secure  client  experience,  which 
drives  customer  loyalty  and  acquisition.  In  Commercial  Banking,  we  are 
pursuing a focused growth strategy across Canada in specialized markets, 
harnessing  our 
in  healthcare,  agriculture, 
technology, creative industries and real estate. 

recognized  strengths 

As a leading franchise in Quebec and firmly established in Canada, we are 
pleased  with  the  differentiated  positioning  of  our  Wealth  Management 
segment.  With  a  focus  on  distribution,  our  open-architecture  model 
responds to client needs for choice and unbiased advice. We are proud to 
be the Canadian leader in providing administrative services to independent 
asset managers.  

Our  Financial  Markets  segment  is  a  strong  pillar  for  the  Bank.  Our 
established leadership in selected  niches across Canada  is underpinned 
by  our  entrepreneurial  culture,  our  differentiated  business  mix  and  our 
flexible  approach  to  capital  allocation.  We  continue  to  invest  in  our 
franchise to further our presence domestically and capitalize on targeted 
opportunities abroad. 

We  are  very  satisfied  with  the  overall  performance  of  our  international 
strategy,  which  generates  strong  growth  and  superior  returns.  Both 
Credigy in the U.S. and ABA Bank in Cambodia have greatly exceeded our 
expectations, and we continue to see attractive growth potential for each 
platform. Looking ahead, our efforts and capital dedicated to international 
markets will be concentrated on these two successful subsidiaries. 

National Bank of Canada

3

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual ReportMMeessssaaggee  FFrroomm  tthhee  PPrreessiiddeenntt  aanndd  CChhiieeff  EExxeeccuuttiivvee  OOffffiicceerr ((ccoonntt..))

PPeeooppllee  aanndd  CCuullttuurree::    
AA  CCoommppeettiittiivvee  AAddvvaannttaaggee
At a time of profound change, we believe that people and culture are the 
cornerstone of our long-term success. Our entrepreneurial culture, deeply 
rooted  within  the  organization,  is  a  key  differentiator  in  the  way  we 
transform  the  Bank,  serve  our  clients,  and  attract  people  with  the  right 
skills and values. Our evolution as an agile organization goes hand-in-hand 
with  our  digital  transformation—all  essential  components  to  delivering 
superior  customer  experience,  sustainable  revenue  growth  and  higher 
operating efficiency. 

At National Bank, we are putting 
People First. 

In  2019,  we  adjusted  our  mission  statement  to  respond  to  the  rapid 
evolution of our operating environment. At National Bank, we are putting 
People  First.  We  believe  that  building  long-term  relationships  with  our 
clients, our employees and our communities is key to creating sustainable 
long-term value for all stakeholders. 

EEnnssuurriinngg  LLoonngg--TTeerrmm  SSuussttaaiinnaabbiilliittyy  
The  long-term  sustainability  of  an  institution  like  ours  depends  on  the 
ability  to  maintain  a  healthy  balance  between  the  interests  of  all 
stakeholders.  As  a  proud  founding  signatory  of  the  UN  Principles  for 
Responsible  Banking  and  joining  the  UN  Principle  for  Responsible 
Investment  in  2019,  we  are  putting  the  full  strength  of  our  organization 
behind our environmental, social and governance guiding principles with 
the aim to develop a green economy, enrich our communities, and uphold 
the highest standards in corporate governance.  How we achieve success 
is crucial and our principles must translate into tangible action. As we look 
forward,  we  are  more  committed  than  ever  to  maximizing  the  positive 
impact of our actions to the benefit of our clients, employees, communities 
and shareholders. 

MMoovviinngg  FFoorrwwaarrdd  WWiitthh  CCoonnffiiddeennccee  
As we embark on a new year, I look to the future with cautious optimism. 
The  outlook  in  Quebec  remains  favourable  and  we  continue  to  take 
advantage of Canada’s broader economic soundness. Our credit quality is 
excellent, our capital ratios are strong, and disciplined cost management 
remains  a  priority  throughout  the  organization.  In  an  environment  of 
macroeconomic  and  geopolitical  uncertainties,  we  are  comfortable  with 
our current positioning and we remain vigilant in balancing our objectives 
of sustainable growth with prudent risk management. 

As we mark our 160th anniversary, I am proud of the Bank’s influential role 
in the economic and social development of Quebec and Canada. I wish to 
sincerely  thank  my  colleagues  of  the  Office  of  the  President  for  their 
leadership and our more than 25,000 employees for their contribution in 
achieving  our  mission  each  day.  I  thank  the  Board  of  Directors  for  its 
judicious counsel and support. I also thank our 2.7 million clients and our 
shareholders for their trust and continued support. We have the right team 
in place to ensure the Bank’s long-term success and truly live our mission 
of putting People First. 

LLoouuiiss  VVaacchhoonn  
President and Chief Executive Officer  

4

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual ReportMembers of the   
Office of the President

Louis Vachon 
President and Chief Executive Officer

Stéphane Achard
Executive Vice-President,
Commercial Banking and Insurance

Lucie Blanchet
Executive Vice-President,
Personal Banking and Client Experience

William Bonnell
Executive Vice-President,
Risk Management

Dominique Fagnoule
Executive Vice-President,
Information Technology

Laurent Ferreira
Executive Vice-President and
Co-Head, Financial Markets

Martin Gagnon
Executive Vice-President,  
Wealth Management;
Co-President and Co-Chief Executive
Officer, National Bank Financial

Nathalie Généreux
Executive Vice-President,
Operations

Denis Girouard
Executive Vice-President and
Co-Head, Financial Markets

Brigitte Hébert
Executive Vice-President,
Employee Experience

Ghislain Parent
Chief Financial Officer and Executive 
Vice-President, Finance

National Bank of Canada
2019 Annual Report

5

MMeessssaaggee  FFrroomm  tthhee  CChhaaiirrmmaann  ooff  tthhee  BBooaarrdd  

National Bank celebrated its 160th anniversary in 2019, and the Board is 
truly proud of its heritage and rich history. Over the last century and a half, 
the Bank has successfully evolved and made positive contributions to the 
economic and social development of its communities. 

Against  this  backdrop,  the  Board  is  very  pleased  with  the  Bank’s  strong 
performance in 2019 and with the continued execution of its strategy. The 
Bank has demonstrated, once again, its capacity to create tangible value 
for  all  stakeholders: 
its  clients,  employees,  communities  and 
shareholders. 

SSttrraatteeggiicc  OOvveerrssiigghhtt
As  stewards  of  the  Bank,  the  Board  plays  a  critical  and  active  role  in 
overseeing the sound execution of the Bank’s strategy to ensure its long-
term success. The Board participates in annual strategic reviews with the 
senior  leadership  team  and  in  monitoring  the  progress  of  the  Bank’s 
initiatives and key performance indicators.  

In order to provide sound guidance to management, the Board remains at 
the forefront of new realities facing the financial services industry and stays 
abreast of emerging technologies  and  other innovations. The Board  also 
continues 
including 
to  engage  meaningfully  with  stakeholders, 
shareholders, to always keep its finger on the pulse of its industry. 

FFooccuusseedd  oonn  TTaalleenntt  aanndd  CCuullttuurree  
The Board works closely with management to ensure talent development. 
Succession planning is also a key Board responsibility, and we have great 
confidence in the strength of the leadership team and a solid pipeline of 
talent across the Bank.  

People and culture are the cornerstone of the Bank’s long-term success. 
As  the  banking  industry  evolves  in  an  ever-changing  environment,  a 
strong  entrepreneurial  culture  with  the  ability  to  adapt  rapidly  have 
become competitive advantages in the pursuit of our transformation. 

SSttrroonngg  RRiisskk  MMaannaaggeemmeenntt  CCuullttuurree  
The  Board  champions  a  strong  risk  management  culture,  strengthened 
through active compliance, controls, and audits across all business lines. 
The Board assesses the soundness of business opportunities against the 
Bank’s  risk  management  framework,  which  considers  both  financial  and 
non-financial risks. 

In 2019, cybersecurity remained a key priority for the Board, and the Bank 
continued its significant investments in this critical aspect of our industry. 
Protecting  client  information  is  of  the  utmost  importance,  and  risk-
reduction strategies are continually being assessed by the Board. 

BBeesstt--iinn--CCllaassss  BBooaarrdd  GGoovveerrnnaannccee  
Leadership  in  the  area  of  governance  is  fundamental.  We  have  a  strong 
Board, thanks to the active engagement of its dedicated members who put 
forth  diverse  perspectives,  backgrounds,  and  expertise,  all  critical  to 
strong oversight. 

To  ensure  that  the  Board’s  composition  is  both  aligned  with  and  can 
anticipate  the  Bank’s  ever-evolving  needs,  we  remain  proactive  in 
promoting  the  highest  standards  of  board  renewal  and  committee  chair 
rotations.  In  2019,  we  welcomed  Patricia  Curadeau-Grou  to  the  Board,  a 
National Bank alumna who brings deep knowledge of the banking industry 
and solid expertise in finance and risk management. 

EEmmbbeeddddiinngg  EESSGG  PPrriinncciipplleess  IInnttoo  oouurr    
DDeecciissiioonn--MMaakkiinngg
The Bank recognizes that its long-term success is directly tied to its ability 
to create sustainable value for all stakeholders. 

Corporate  responsibility  and  ethical  standards  have  always  been 
embedded into the Bank’s culture. The Board understands the increasing 
importance  of  environmental,  social,  and  governance  (ESG)  factors  to  all 
stakeholders. In 2019, we made significant progress in this regard, with 
the development and formal adoption of the Bank’s ESG principles by the 
Board. 

RReeaaddyy  ffoorr  tthhee  FFuuttuurree
On  behalf  of  the  Board,  I  would  like  to  thank  Louis  Vachon  and  our 
executive team for their leadership and lasting contributions. I would also 
like to thank the Bank’s more than 25,000 employees for their unwavering 
commitment  and  for  being  dedicated  Bank  ambassadors 
in  their 
communities. Our passion for people has allowed us to successfully build 
lasting  relationships  for  the  past  160 years,  and  we  look  forward  to 
continuing to do so in the future. 

I  wish  to  conclude  by  thanking  our  customers  for  their  loyalty,  our 
shareholders for their support, and all our stakeholders for the confidence 
they continue to manifest in National Bank. 

JJeeaann  HHoouuddee  
Chairman of the Board of Directors 

For  more  information  regarding  the  Bank’s  governance,  please  refer  to  the Statement of 
Corporate Practices available on the Bank’s website at nbc.ca. 

6

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual ReportMMeemmbbeerrss  ooff  tthhee  BBooaarrdd  ooff  DDiirreeccttoorrss  

JJeeaann  HHoouuddee  
Montreal, Quebec, Canada 
Chairman of the Board of Directors, 
National Bank of Canada 
and Corporate Director 
Director since March 2011 

RRaayymmoonndd  BBaacchhaanndd  
Montreal, Quebec, Canada 
Strategic Advisor, 
Norton Rose Fulbright Canada LLP 
and Corporate Director 
Director since October 2014 

MMaarryyssee  BBeerrttrraanndd  
Westmount, Quebec, Canada 
Corporate Director 
Director since April 2012 

PPiieerrrree  BBlloouuiinn  
Town of Mount-Royal, Quebec, Canada 
Corporate Director 
Director since September 2016  

PPiieerrrree  BBooiivviinn  
Montreal, Quebec, Canada 
President and Chief Executive Officer, 
Claridge inc. 
Director since April 2013 

PPaattrriicciiaa  CCuurraaddeeaauu--GGrroouu  
Montreal, Quebec, Canada 
Corporate Director 
Director since April 2019 

GGiilllliiaann  HH..  DDeennhhaamm  
Toronto, Ontario, Canada 
Corporate Director 
Director since October 2010 

KKaarreenn  KKiinnsslleeyy  
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada 
Corporate Director 
Director since December 2014 

RReebbeeccccaa  MMccKKiilllliiccaann  
Oakville, Ontario, Canada 
Chief Retail Officer,  
McKesson Canada 
Director since October 2017 

PPiieerrrree  TThhaabbeett  
St-Georges, Quebec, Canada 
President, Boa-Franc inc. 
Director since March 2011 

RRoobbeerrtt  PPaarréé  
Westmount, Quebec, Canada 
Strategic Advisor, 
Fasken Martineau DuMoulin LLP 
and Corporate Director 
Director since April 2018 

LLoouuiiss  VVaacchhoonn  
Beaconsfield, Quebec, Canada 
President and Chief Executive Officer, 
National Bank of Canada 
Director since August 2006 

LLiinnoo  AA..  SSaappuuttoo  JJrr..  
Montreal, Quebec, Canada 
Chief Executive Officer and 
Chairman of the Board of Directors, 
Saputo Inc. 
Director since April 2012 

AAnnddrrééee  SSaavvooiiee  
Dieppe, New Brunswick, Canada 
President and Chair of the  
Board of Directors,  
Acadian Properties Ltd. 
Director since April 2015 

BBooaarrdd  CCoommmmiitttteeeess    

AAuuddiitt  CCoommmmiitttteeee  
Karen Kinsley (Chair) 
Maryse Bertrand 
Pierre Blouin 
Andrée Savoie 
Pierre Thabet 

RRiisskk  MMaannaaggeemmeenntt  CCoommmmiitttteeee  
Pierre Thabet (Chair) 
Raymond Bachand 
Patricia Curadeau-Grou 
Karen Kinsley 
Lino A. Saputo Jr. 

HHuummaann  RReessoouurrcceess  CCoommmmiitttteeee  
Pierre Boivin (Chair) 
Maryse Bertrand 
Pierre Blouin 
Gillian H. Denham 
Rebecca McKillican 

CCoonndduucctt  RReevviieeww  aanndd  CCoorrppoorraattee  
GGoovveerrnnaannccee  CCoommmmiitttteeee  
Lino A. Saputo Jr. (Chair) 
Raymond Bachand 
Jean Houde 
Robert Paré 
Andrée Savoie 

National Bank of Canada

7

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report  
OUR ONE MISSION

We exist to have a
POSITIVE IMPACT  in 
people’s lives.

By building  long-term 
relationships  with our 
clients, employees 
and communities.

People first.

Integral to our one mission 
is support for sustainable
development.

We incorporate environmental, 
social, and governance 
matters into our business 
and operating decisions. 

The Board of Directors has approved 
a sustainable development framework and 
principles that inspire our thoughts and actions.

The Bank’s 
Commitments

This past year, National Bank signed some major agreements:

>   One of the first North American signatories to the United Nations’ Principles for Responsible Banking

>   United Nations’ Global Standards of Conduct for Business: Tackling Discrimination Against Lesbian,  

Gay, Bi, Trans and Intersex People (LGBTI)

>   United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initiative (UNEP FI) 

>   National Bank Investments: Signatory to the United Nations’ Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI)

National Bank supports the Financial Stability Board’s Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD).  
The Bank has therefore agreed to include, as part of its disclosure activities, information on the various questions  
addressed by this group. In addition, in collaboration with banking industry partners, the Bank is working to develop  
a relevant disclosure methodology.

The Bank is committed to having a positive impact on people’s lives.  
Our principles reflect the importance of striking a balance among society’s stakeholders.

We are working to 
develop a green 
economy

We enrich 
communities

We govern according  
to the highest standards

 1.  We consider the fight against  

4.  We maximize the potential  

climate change in our economic  
and community actions

of individuals and the community

5.   We promote inclusion  

2.   We guide and advise our clients  

and diversity

in their energy transition

3.   We manage and reduce our 
environmental footprint in all  
of our business segments 

6.   We foster entrepreneurship,  

financial literacy, philanthropy,  
and support for health  
and education

7.   We promote a strong ethics  
culture, sound governance  
practices, and rigorous risk 
management

8.  We manage according to  

responsible business practices

9.   We ensure the long-term  
viability of the institution

Key United Nations sustainable development goals covered by our principles

10

National Bank of Canada
2019 Annual Report

Our Accomplishments

Environmental 
We are working to develop a green economy

>   Renewable energy loan portfolio growing faster  

than the non-renewable energy portfolio in support  
of the energy transition

>   Equal investment allocated to the renewable  

and non-renewable energy sectors 

>   Multi-award winning energy efficiency program

>   Several LEED® certifications

>   New head office designed to meet the highest 

standards of sustainable construction and occupant 
health and well-being (LEED v4 Gold certification) 

>   External disclosure of a framework for issuing NBC 
Sustainability Bonds, an environmental policy,  
and a code of supplier conduct 

>   Completion of four sustainability bond issuances, 
including the first international issuance of USD 
Sustainability Bonds by a North American bank

>   Assets under management governed by  

National Bank Investments’ OP4+ process: 95% (↑)  
of our fund managers meet the Principles  
for Responsible Investment

>   Several initiatives put in place by the Positive 

Environmental Impact Committee (end of purchase 
of disposable water bottles, eco-friendly lunches, etc.)

Social 
We enrich communities

Helping our clients power their ideas 

>   Leading-edge digital and mobile banking  
solutions and many specialized services

>   New branch concepts where advice  

and technology converge

>   Active participation in developing the  

entrepreneurial ecosystem

Supporting the community

>   Many millions of dollars paid to the community  
in the form of donations and sponsorships  
and through fundraisers

>   Hundreds of organizations supported Canada-wide

>   Committed to enhancing the impact of our social 

investments

Stimulating economic development

>   $121 million invested in our facilities 

>   $1.1 billion spent on goods and services 

Promoting diversity and inclusion

>   Listed in the 2019 Bloomberg Gender-Equality Index

>   Active support of women, cultural communities,  

and the LGBTQ+ community

>   Listed as one of Canada’s Best Diversity Employers  

for many years

Governance 
We govern according to the highest standards

>   Mandates of the Conduct Review and Corporate 
Governance Committee, the Audit Committee,  
and the Risk Management Committee include  
ESG-related responsibilities

>   Policy regarding diversity on the Board of Directors 

(diversity of gender, age, designated groups, sexual orientation,  
ethnocultural groups, and geographic origins)

>   Listed in the 2019 FTSE4 Good Index of ethical 
companies recognized for social responsibility  

For more information: nbc.ca

National Bank of Canada
2019 Annual Report

11

RRiisskk  DDiisscclloossuurreess  

In 2012, the Financial Stability Board (FSB) formed a working group, the Enhanced Disclosure Task Force (EDTF), that was mandated to develop principles for 
enhancing the risk disclosures of major banks, to recommend improvements to current risk disclosures, and to identify risk disclosure best practices used by 
major financial institutions. The EDTF published a report entitled Enhancing the Risk Disclosures of Banks, which contains 32 recommendations. The Bank makes 
every effort to ensure overall compliance with those recommendations and is continuing to enhance its risk disclosures to meet the best practices on an ongoing 
basis. The risk disclosures required by the EDTF are provided in this Annual Report and in the document entitled Supplementary Regulatory Capital and Pillar 3 
Disclosure  available on the Bank’s website at nbc.ca.  

AAnnnnuuaall  
RReeppoorrtt  

PPaaggeess   
SSuupppplleemmeennttaarryy  
RReegguullaattoorryy  CCaappiittaall  
aanndd  PPiillllaarr  33  DDiisscclloossuurree(1)     

GGeenneerraall  

1 

2 
3 
4 

  Location of risk disclosures 
   Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
   Consolidated Financial Statements 
   Supplementary Financial Information 
   Supplementary Regulatory Capital and Pillar 3 Disclosure 
  Risk terminology and risk measures 
  Top and emerging risks 
  New key regulatory ratios 

RRiisskk  ggoovveerrnnaannccee  aanndd  rriisskk  mmaannaaggeemmeenntt  

5 
6 
7 

8 

  Risk management organization, processes and key functions 
  Risk management culture 
  Key risks by business segment, risk management 
   and risk appetite 
  Stress testing 

9 
10 

11 
12 
13 

CCaappiittaall  aaddeeqquuaaccyy  aanndd  rriisskk--wweeiigghhtteedd  aasssseettss  ((RRWWAA))  
  Minimum Pillar 1 capital requirements 
  Reconciliation of the accounting balance sheet to 
   the regulatory balance sheet 
  Movements in regulatory capital 
  Capital planning 
  RWA by business segment  
   and by risk type 
  Capital requirements by risk and RWA calculation method 
  Banking book credit risk 
  Movements in RWA by risk type 
  Assessment of credit risk model performance 

14 
15 
16 
17 

LLiiqquuiiddiittyy  

18 

  Liquidity management and components of the liquidity buffer 

FFuunnddiinngg  
19 
20 

21 

  Summary of encumbered and unencumbered assets 
  Residual contractual maturities of balance sheet items and  
   off-balance-sheet commitments 
  Funding strategy and funding sources 

MMaarrkkeett  rriisskk  
22 
23 
24 
25 

  Linkage of market risk measures to balance sheet 
  Market risk factors 
  VaR: Assumptions, limitations and validation procedures 
  Stress tests, stressed VaR and backtesting 

CCrreeddiitt  rriisskk  
26 
27 
28 
29 
30 

  Credit risk exposures  
  Policies for identifying impaired loans  
  Movements in impaired loans and allowances for credit losses 
  Counterparty credit risk relating to derivatives transactions 
  Credit risk mitigation  

OOtthheerr  rriisskkss  
31 
32 

  Other risks: Governance, measurement and management 
  Publicly known risk events 

(1) 
(2) 

Fourth quarter 2019. 
These pages are included in the document entitled Supplementary Financial Information  Fourth Quarter 2019.  

12

19 to 29(2)  
5 to 52  

7 to 13, 16 and 17  

6  
6  
6  
6  
35  

12    
50 to 94, 107, 109 and 110    
Notes 1, 7, 16, 23 and 29    

58 to 94    
63 to 67    
51 to 53, 80, 82 and 86    

58 to 76, 82 and 83    
58 and 59    

57 to 59 and 63    
50, 59, 71, 80, 81 and 83    

51 to 53    

55    
50 to 57    

57    
67 to 71    

56    
62, 68 to 70 and 75    

82 to 87    

84 and 85    

203 to 207    
87 to 89    

77 and 78    
75 to 81, 191 and 192    
78 and 79    
75 to 81    

74 and 151 to 163    
72, 126 and 127    
107, 109, 110 and 151 to 163    
72, 73 and 171 to 174    
70 to 72 and 148    

18 to 44 and 19 to 27(2)  

24 to 26(2)  
37 to 44 and 28(2) and 29(2)  
20, 24 and 42 to 52  

66, 67 and 90 to 94    
90    

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
     
   
   
  
  
     
  
  
   
     
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
     
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
     
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Management’s Discussion 
and Analysis 

DDeecceemmbbeerr  33,,  22001199  

The following Management’s Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) presents the financial condition and operating results of National Bank of Canada (the Bank). This 
analysis was prepared in accordance with the requirements set out in National Instrument 51-102, Continuous Disclosure Obligations, released by the Canadian 
Securities Administrators (CSA). It is based on the audited annual consolidated financial statements for the year ended October 31, 2019 (the consolidated 
financial statements) and prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as issued by the International Accounting Standards 
Board (IASB), unless otherwise indicated. IFRS represent Canadian generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). This MD&A should be read in conjunction 
with  the  consolidated  financial  statements  and  accompanying  notes  for  the  year  ended  October  31,  2019.  All  amounts  are  presented  in  Canadian  dollars. 
Additional  information  about  the  Bank,  including  the Annual Information Form,  can  be  obtained  from  the  Bank’s  website  at  nbc.ca  and   SEDAR’s  website  at 
sedar.com. 

Financial Reporting Method 
Financial Disclosure   
Overview 
Financial Analysis 
Business Segment Analysis   
   Personal and Commercial 
   Wealth Management 
   Financial Markets 
   U.S. Specialty Finance and International (USSF&I) 
   Other 

1144  
1166  
1177  
2211  
2244  
2255  
2299  
3333  
3388  
4422  

Quarterly Financial Information 
Analysis of the Consolidated Balance Sheet 
Securitization and Off-Balance-Sheet Arrangements 
Capital Management
Risk Management
Critical Accounting Estimates 
Future Accounting Policy Changes 
Additional Financial Information 

4433  
4444  
4488  
5500  
5588  
9955  
110011  
110022  

CCaauuttiioonn  RReeggaarrddiinngg  FFoorrwwaarrdd--LLooookkiinngg  SSttaatteemmeennttss 
From time to time, the Bank makes written and oral forward-looking statements, such as those contained in the Economic Review and Outlook section of this Annual Report, in other 
filings with Canadian securities regulators, and in other communications, for the purpose of describing the economic environment in which the Bank will operate during fiscal 2020 
and the objectives it hopes to achieve for that period. These forward-looking statements are made in accordance with current securities legislation in Canada and the United States. 
They include, among others, statements with respect to the economy—particularly the Canadian and U.S. economies—market changes, observations regarding the Bank’s objectives 
and its  strategies  for achieving them,  Bank-projected financial returns and certain  risks  faced  by the Bank. These forward-looking statements are typically identified by future  or 
conditional verbs or words such as “outlook,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “project,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” and similar terms and expressions. 

By their very nature, such forward-looking statements require assumptions to be made and involve inherent risks and uncertainties, both general and specific. Assumptions about the 
performance of the Canadian and U.S. economies in 2020 and how that will affect the Bank’s business are among the main factors considered in setting the Bank’s strategic priorities 
and objectives and in determining its financial targets, including provisions for credit losses. In determining its expectations for economic growth, both broadly and in the financial 
services sector in particular, the Bank primarily considers historical economic data provided by the Canadian and U.S. governments and their agencies. 

There is a strong possibility that express or implied projections contained in these forward-looking statements will not materialize or will not be accurate. The Bank recommends that 
readers not place undue reliance on these statements, as a number of factors, many of which are beyond the Bank’s control, could cause actual future results, conditions, actions or 
events to differ significantly from the targets, expectations, estimates or intentions expressed in the forward-looking statements. These factors include credit risk, market risk, liquidity 
and funding risk, operational risk, regulatory compliance risk, reputation risk, strategic risk and environmental risk, all of which are described in more detail in the Risk Management 
section beginning on page 58 of this Annual Report, and more specifically, general economic environment and financial market conditions in Canada, the United States and certain 
other countries in which  the  Bank conducts  business, including regulatory changes affecting the Bank’s business; changes  in  the accounting policies the Bank uses to report its 
financial condition, including uncertainties associated with assumptions and critical accounting estimates; tax laws in the countries in which the Bank operates, primarily Canada and 
the United States (including the U.S. Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA)); changes to capital and liquidity guidelines and to the manner in which they are to be presented and 
interpreted; changes to the credit ratings assigned to the Bank; and potential disruptions to the Bank’s information technology systems, including evolving cyberattack risk. 

The foregoing list of risk factors is not exhaustive. Additional information about these factors can be found in the Risk Management section of this Annual Report. Investors and others 
who rely on the Bank’s forward-looking statements should carefully consider the above factors as well as the uncertainties they represent and the risk they entail. Except as required 
by law, the Bank does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time, by it or on its behalf. 

The  forward-looking  information  contained  in  this  document  is  presented  for  the  purpose  of  interpreting  the  information  contained  herein  and  may  not  be  appropriate  for  other 
purposes. 

Management’s Discussion and Analysis 

FFiinnaanncciiaall  RReeppoorrttiinngg  MMeetthhoodd  

As stated in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements, the Bank adopted IFRS 15 on November 1, 2018. As permitted by IFRS 15, the Bank did not restate 
comparative consolidated financial statements, and Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements presents the impact of IFRS 15 adoption on the Bank’s 
Consolidated Balance Sheet as at November 1, 2018.  

The presentation of segment disclosures is consistent with the presentation adopted by the Bank for the year beginning November 1, 2018. This presentation 
reflects the fact that advisor banking service activities, which had previously been presented in the Wealth Management segment, are now presented in the 
Personal and Commercial segment. The Bank made this change to better align the monitoring of its activities with its management structure. 

NNoonn--GGAAAAPP  FFiinnaanncciiaall  MMeeaassuurreess    

The Bank uses a number of financial measures when assessing its results and measuring its overall performance. Some of these financial measures are not 
calculated in accordance with GAAP, which are based on IFRS. Presenting non-GAAP financial measures helps readers to better understand how management 
analyzes results, shows the impacts of specified items on the results of the reported periods, and allows readers to assess results without the specified items 
if they consider such  items  not to  be reflective of the underlying performance of  the Bank’s  operations. Securities regulators require companies  to  caution 
readers that non-GAAP measures do not have a standardized meaning under GAAP and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures used by other 
companies. 

Like many other financial institutions, the Bank uses the taxable equivalent basis to calculate net interest income, non-interest income and income taxes. This 
calculation method consists of grossing up certain tax-exempt income (particularly dividends) by the income tax that would have been otherwise payable. An 
equivalent amount is added to income taxes. This adjustment is necessary in order to perform a uniform comparison of the return on different assets regardless 
of their tax treatment.  

The specified items related to the acquisitions of recent years (mainly those of the Wealth Management segment) are no longer presented as specified items as 
of November 1, 2018, since the amounts are not considered significant. The figures for the year ended October 31, 2018 reflect this change. 

14

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual ReportManagement’s Discussion and Analysis 
Financial Reporting Method 

RReeccoonncciilliiaattiioonn  ooff  NNoonn--GGAAAAPP  FFiinnaanncciiaall  MMeeaassuurreess  

Year ended October 31 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

PPeerrssoonnaall  aanndd  
CCoommmmeerrcciiaall  

WWeeaalltthh  
MMaannaaggeemmeenntt  

FFiinnaanncciiaall  
MMaarrkkeettss  

UUSSSSFF&&II  

Net interest income 
Taxable equivalent 
NNeett  iinntteerreesstt  iinnccoommee  oonn  aa  ttaaxxaabbllee  eeqquuiivvaalleenntt  bbaassiiss  

Non-interest income 
Taxable equivalent 
Gain on disposal of Fiera Capital shares(2) 
Gain on disposal of premises and equipment(3) 
Remeasurement at fair value of an investment(4) 
NNoonn--iinntteerreesstt  iinnccoommee  oonn  aa  ttaaxxaabbllee  eeqquuiivvaalleenntt  bbaassiiss  aanndd    
    eexxcclluuddiinngg  ssppeecciiffiieedd  iitteemmss  

TToottaall  rreevveennuueess  oonn  aa  ttaaxxaabbllee  eeqquuiivvaalleenntt  bbaassiiss  aanndd    
    eexxcclluuddiinngg  ssppeecciiffiieedd  iitteemmss  

Non-interest expenses 
Impairment losses on premises and equipment and on intangible assets(5) 
Provisions for onerous contracts(6) 
Charge related to Maple(7) 
Severance pay(8) 
NNoonn--iinntteerreesstt  eexxppeennsseess  eexxcclluuddiinngg  ssppeecciiffiieedd  iitteemmss  

CCoonnttrriibbuuttiioonn  oonn  aa  ttaaxxaabbllee  eeqquuiivvaalleenntt  bbaassiiss  aanndd  eexxcclluuddiinngg  ssppeecciiffiieedd  iitteemmss  
Provisions for credit losses 
IInnccoommee  bbeeffoorree  iinnccoommee  ttaaxxeess  oonn  aa  ttaaxxaabbllee  eeqquuiivvaalleenntt  bbaassiiss  aanndd  

eexxcclluuddiinngg  ssppeecciiffiieedd  iitteemmss  

Income taxes  
Taxable equivalent 
Income taxes on the gain on disposal of Fiera Capital shares(2) 
Income taxes on the gain on disposal of premises and equipment(3) 
Income taxes on the remeasurement at fair value of an investment(4) 
Income taxes related to impairment losses on premises and equipment  
  and on intangible assets(5) 
Income taxes on provisions for onerous contracts(6) 
Income taxes on the charge related to Maple(7) 
Income taxes on severance pay(8) 
IInnccoommee  ttaaxxeess  oonn  aa  ttaaxxaabbllee  eeqquuiivvaalleenntt  bbaassiiss  aanndd  eexxcclluuddiinngg  ssppeecciiffiieedd  iitteemmss    
NNeett  iinnccoommee  eexxcclluuddiinngg  ssppeecciiffiieedd  iitteemmss    
SSppeecciiffiieedd  iitteemmss  aafftteerr  iinnccoommee  ttaaxxeess  
NNeett  iinnccoommee          
NNoonn--ccoonnttrroolllliinngg  iinntteerreessttss    
NNeett  iinnccoommee  aattttrriibbuuttaabbllee  ttoo  tthhee  BBaannkk’ss  sshhaarreehhoollddeerrss  

22,,338833
−−
22,,338833

11,,006699
−−
−−
−−
−−

11,,006699

33,,445522

11,,881166
−−
−−
−−
−−
11,,881166

11,,663366
223377

11,,339999

337722
−−
−−
−−
−−

−−
−−
−−
−−
337722
11,,002277
−−
11,,002277
−−
11,,002277

446699
11
447700

11,,227733
−−
−−
−−
−−

228833
119911
447744

11,,114411
113355
−−
−−
−−

11,,227733

11,,227766

11,,774433

11,,006677
−−
−−
−−
−−
11,,006677

667766
−−

667766

117766
11
−−
−−
−−

−−
−−
−−
−−
117777
449999
−−
449999
−−
449999

11,,775500

774433
−−
−−
−−
−−
774433

11,,000077
3300

997777

((6666))
332266
−−
−−
−−

−−
−−
−−
−−
226600
771177
−−
771177
−−
771177

665566 
−− 
665566 

5599 
−− 
−− 
−− 
−− 

5599 

771155 

228855 
−− 
−− 
−− 
−− 
228855 

443300 
8800 

335500 

7711 
−− 
−− 
−− 
−− 

−− 
−− 
−− 
−− 
7711 
227799 
−− 
227799 
4400 
223399 

22001199  

2018(1)  

33,,559966
119955
33,,779911

33,,883366
113355
((7799))
((5500))
3333

3,382 
144 
3,526 

3,784 
101 
− 
− 
− 

33,,887755

3,885 

77,,666666

44,,330011
((5577))
((4455))
((1111))
((1100))
44,,117788

33,,448888
334477

7,411 

4,063 
− 
− 
− 
− 
4,063 

3,348 
327 

OOtthheerr  

((119955)) 
33 
((119922)) 

229944 
−− 
((7799)) 
((5500)) 
3333 

119988 

66 

339900 
((5577)) 
((4455)) 
((1111)) 
((1100)) 
226677 

((226611)) 
−− 

((226611)) 

33,,114411

3,021 

((9911)) 
33 
((1111)) 
((77)) 
66 

1155 
1122 
33 
33 
((6677)) 
((119944)) 
((66)) 
((220000)) 
2266 
((222266)) 

446622
333300
((1111))
((77))
66

1155
1122
33
33
881133
22,,332288
((66))
22,,332222
6666
22,,225566

544 
245 
− 
− 
− 

− 
− 
− 
− 
789 
2,232 
− 
2,232 
87 
2,145 

(1) 

(2) 

(3) 

(4) 
(5) 

(6) 
(7) 

(8) 

For the year ended October 31, 2018, certain amounts have been reclassified, mainly amounts related to advisor banking service activities, which have been transferred from the Wealth 
Management segment to the Personal and Commercial segment. 
During the year ended October 31, 2019, following the Bank’s disposal of a portion of its investment in Fiera Capital Corporation (Fiera Capital) the Bank recorded a gain on disposal of 
$79 million ($68 million net of income taxes), including a gain of $31 million ($27 million net of income taxes) upon remeasurement at fair value of the retained interest. 
During the year ended October 31, 2019, the Bank completed the sale of its head office land and building located at 600 De La Gauchetière Street West, Montreal, Quebec, Canada, for gross 
proceeds of $187 million, and a gain on disposal of premises and equipment of $50 million ($43 million net of income taxes) was recorded. 
During the year ended October 31, 2019, the Bank remeasured at fair value its investment in NSIA Participations (NSIA) and recorded a loss of $33 million ($27 million net of income taxes).  
During the year ended October 31, 2019, the Bank recorded $57 million ($42 million net of income taxes) in impairment losses on premises and equipment and on intangible assets related 
to computer equipment and technology developments. 
During the year ended October 31, 2019, the Bank reviewed all of its corporate building leases and recorded provisions for onerous contracts of $45 million ($33 million net of income taxes). 
During the year ended October 31, 2019, the Bank recorded a charge of $11 million ($8 million net of income taxes) related to the company Maple Financial Group Inc. (Maple) following the 
event of November 19, 2019, as described in the section entitled Event After the Consolidated Balance Sheet on page 47. 
During the year ended October 31, 2019, following an optimization of certain organizational structures, the Bank recorded $10 million ($7 million net of income taxes) in severance pay. 

National Bank of Canada

15

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report  
  
  
  
  
  
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 

FFiinnaanncciiaall  DDiisscclloossuurree  

DDiisscclloossuurree  CCoonnttrroollss  aanndd  PPrroocceedduurreess    

The Bank’s financial information is prepared with the support of a set of disclosure controls and procedures (DC&P) that are implemented by the President and 
Chief  Executive  Officer  (CEO)  and  by  the  Chief  Financial  Officer  and  Executive  Vice-President,  Finance  (CFO).  During  the  year  ended  October 31,  2019,  in 
accordance with Regulation 52-109 Respecting Certification of Disclosure in Issuers’ Annual and Interim Filings (Regulation 52-109), released by the CSA, the 
design and operation of these controls and procedures were evaluated to determine their effectiveness. 

As at October 31, 2019, the CEO and the CFO confirmed the effectiveness of the DC&P. These controls are designed to provide reasonable assurance that the 
information disclosed in annual and interim filings and in other reports filed or submitted under securities legislation is recorded, processed, summarized and 
reported within the time periods specified by that legislation. These controls and procedures are also designed to ensure that such information is accumulated 
and communicated to the Bank’s management, including its signing officers, as appropriate, to allow for timely decisions regarding disclosure.  

This Annual Report was reviewed by the Disclosure Committee, the Audit Committee, and the Bank’s Board of Directors (the Board), which approved it prior to 
publication. 

IInntteerrnnaall  CCoonnttrroollss  OOvveerr  FFiinnaanncciiaall  RReeppoorrttiinngg  

The internal controls over financial reporting (ICFR) are designed to provide reasonable assurance that the financial information presented is reliable and that 
the consolidated financial statements were prepared in accordance with GAAP, which are based on IFRS, unless indicated otherwise as explained on pages 14 
and 15 of this MD&A. Due to inherent limitations, the ICFR may not prevent or detect all misstatements in a timely manner. 

The CEO and  the  CFO oversaw  the  evaluation  work  performed on  the design  and  operation  of  the Bank’s ICFR in accordance  with Regulation 52-109. These 
controls were evaluated in accordance with the control framework of the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO — 2013) 
for  financial  controls  and  in  accordance  with  the  control  framework  of  the Control Objectives for Information and Related Technologies  (COBIT)  for  general 
information technology controls.  

Based on the evaluation results, the CEO and CFO concluded, as at October 31, 2019, that there are no material weaknesses, that the ICFR are effective and 
provide reasonable assurance that the financial reporting is reliable, and that the Bank’s consolidated financial statements were prepared in accordance with 
GAAP. 

CChhaannggeess  ttoo  IInntteerrnnaall  CCoonnttrroollss  OOvveerr  FFiinnaanncciiaall  RReeppoorrttiinngg  

The CEO and CFO also undertook work whereby they were able to conclude that, during the year ended October 31, 2019, no changes were made to the ICFR that 
have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the design or operation of the ICFR. 

DDiisscclloossuurree  CCoommmmiitttteeee  

The Disclosure Committee assists the CEO and CFO by ensuring that disclosure controls and procedures and internal control procedures for financial reporting 
are implemented and operational. In so doing, the committee ensures that the Bank is meeting its disclosure obligations under current regulations and that the 
CEO and CFO are producing the requisite certifications.

16

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual ReportManagement’s Discussion and Analysis 

OOvveerrvviieeww

HHiigghhlliigghhttss  

As at October 31 or for the year ended October 31 
(millions of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts) 

OOppeerraattiinngg  rreessuullttss    
Total revenues 
Net income 
Net income attributable to the Bank’s shareholders 
Return on common shareholders’ equity  
Dividend payout ratio 
EEaarrnniinnggss  ppeerr  sshhaarree  

Basic 
Diluted  
OOppeerraattiinngg  rreessuullttss  oonn  aa  ttaaxxaabbllee  eeqquuiivvaalleenntt  bbaassiiss  aanndd  eexxcclluuddiinngg  ssppeecciiffiieedd  iitteemmss(1)  
Total revenues on a taxable equivalent basis and excluding specified items 
Net income excluding specified items 
Return on common shareholders’ equity excluding specified items 
Dividend payout ratio excluding specified items 
Efficiency ratio on a taxable equivalent basis and excluding specified items 
EEaarrnniinnggss  ppeerr  sshhaarree  eexxcclluuddiinngg  ssppeecciiffiieedd  iitteemmss(1)  
Basic 
Diluted  

CCoommmmoonn  sshhaarree  iinnffoorrmmaattiioonn  
Dividends declared 
Book value 
Share price 

High  
Low  
Close 

Number of common shares (thousands) 
Market capitalization 

BBaallaannccee  sshheeeett  aanndd  ooffff--bbaallaannccee--sshheeeett  
Total assets  
Loans and acceptances, net of allowances 
Deposits 
Equity attributable to common shareholders 
Assets under administration and under management 

RReegguullaattoorryy  rraattiiooss  uunnddeerr  BBaasseell  IIIIII  
Capital ratios 

Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) 
Tier 1 
Total 

Leverage ratio 
Liquidity coverage ratio (LCR) 

OOtthheerr  IInnffoorrmmaattiioonn  
Number of employees – worldwide 
Number of branches in Canada 
Number of banking machines in Canada 

22001199  

2018 

%%  cchhaannggee   

$$

$$

$$

77,,443322
22,,332222
22,,225566
1188..00 %% 
4422 %% 

66..3399
66..3344

$ 

77,,666666
22,,332288
1188..00 %% 
4422 %% 
5544..55 %% 

$ 

$ 

66..4400
66..3366

22..6666
3366..8899

6688..0022
5544..9977
6688..0022
333344,,117722
2222,,773300

228811,,445588
115533,,225511
118899,,556666
1122,,332288
556655,,339966

7,166
2,232
2,145

18.4 %
41 %

6.01
5.94

7,411
2,232

18.4 %
41 %
54.8 %

6.01
5.94

2.44
34.40

65.63
58.69
59.76
335,071
20,024

262,471
146,082
170,830
11,526
485,080

1111..77 %% 
1155..00 %%   
1166..11 %%   
44..00 %%   
114466 %%   

2255,,448877
442222
993399

11.7 %
15.5 % 
16.8 % 
4.0 % 
147 % 

23,450
428
937

44  
44  
55  

66  
77  

33  
44  

66  
77  

99  

77  
55  
1111  
77  
1177  

99  
((11))   
––  

(1) 

See the Financial Reporting Method section on pages 14 and 15 for additional information on non-GAAP financial measures. 

National Bank of Canada

17

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual ReportAbout National Bank  

The  Bank  carries  out  its  activities  in  four  business  segments:  Personal  and  Commercial,  Wealth 
Management,  Financial  Markets,  and  U.S.  Specialty  Finance  and  International.  For  presentation 
purposes, other operating activities, certain non-recurring items, and treasury activities are grouped 
in  the  Other  heading  of  segment  results.  Each  reportable  segment  is  distinguished  by  services 
offered, type of clientele, and marketing strategy. Additional information is provided in the Business 
Segment Analysis section of this MD&A. 

%
1
.
1
1

%
7
.
9

%
3
.
9

Objectives and 2019 Results 

When  setting  its  objectives,  the  Bank  aims  for  a  realistic  challenge  in  the  current  business 
environment and factors in the predictable evolution in banking industry financial results as well as 
the Bank’s business development plan. When the Bank sets its medium-term objectives, it does not 
take  specified  items(1)  into  consideration,  as  they  are  inherently  unpredictable  or  non-recurring. 
Management therefore excludes specified items when assessing the Bank’s performance against its 
objectives. 

In fiscal 2019, the Bank recorded $2,322 million in net income compared to $2,232 million in fiscal 
2018. Its 2019 diluted earnings per share stood at $6.34 versus $5.94 in fiscal 2018, and its 2019 
return  on  common  shareholders’  equity  (ROE)  was  18.0%  versus  18.4%  in  2018.  Net  income 
excluding specified items totalled $2,328 million in fiscal 2019, up 4% year over year, and diluted 
earnings per share excluding specified items stood at $6.36, up 7% from $5.94 in 2018. Furthermore, 
ROE excluding specified items was 18.0% in 2019 versus 18.4% in 2018. 

The following table compares the Bank’s medium-term objectives with its 2019 results.  

MMeeddiiuumm--TTeerrmm  OObbjjeeccttiivveess  aanndd  22001199  RReessuullttss  

Growth in diluted earnings per share excluding specified items(1) 
ROE excluding specified items(1) 
Dividend payout ratio excluding specified items(1) 
CET1 capital ratio 
Leverage ratio 

MMeeddiiuumm--
tteerrmm
oobbjjeeccttiivveess  
((%%))   

55--1100
1155--2200
4400--5500
>>  1100..7755
>>  33..7755

22001199  
rreessuullttss  ((%%))  

77  
1188..00  
4422  
1111..77  
44..00  

(1) 

See  the  Financial  Reporting  Method  section  on  pages  14  and  15  for  additional  information  on  non-GAAP  financial 
measures. 

In 2019, the Bank’s financial results met all of the medium-term objectives. The 7% growth in diluted 
earnings per share excluding specified items was driven by solid net income growth in all business 
segments, except in the Financial Markets segment, where net income was affected by a slowdown 
during the first six months of fiscal 2019. And, even though the dividend per share was raised twice, 
for a 9% increase in fiscal 2019, the dividend payout ratio excluding specified items was at the lower 
end of the target range, mainly due to rapid growth in diluted earnings per share. 

Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Overview 

BBuussiinneessss  MMiixx(1)  
Year ended October 31, 2019 
(taxable equivalent basis)(2) 

%
1
.
5
4

%
7
.
0
4

%
1
.
4
3

%
0
.
5
4

%
4
.
8
2

%
8
.
2
2

%
8
.
2
2

%
8
.
9
1

%
2
.
1
1

Personal  
and 
Commercial 

Wealth 
Management 

Financial 
Markets 

USSF&I 

Total revenue 
Net income 
Economic capital 

NNeett  iinnccoommee  
Year ended October 31  
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

2
3
2
,
2

2
3
2
,
2

2
2
3
,
2

8
2
3
,
2

2018 

    22001199  

Including specified items 
Excluding specified items(2) 

DDiilluutteedd  eeaarrnniinnggss  ppeerr  sshhaarree 
Year ended October 31  
(Canadian dollars) 

4
9
.
5

4
9
.
5

4
3
.
6

6
3
.
6

  2018 

        22001199  

Including specified items 
Excluding specified items(2) 

(1)  Excluding the Other  heading. 
(2)  See the Financial Reporting Method section on pages 
14 and 15 for additional information on non-GAAP  
financial measures. 

18

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual ReportManagement’s Discussion and Analysis 
Overview

For  fiscal  2019,  the  Bank  declared  $892  million  in  dividends  to  common  shareholders  (2018: 
$829 million), representing 42% of net income attributable to common shareholders (2018: 41%). 

Year ended October 31 
(Canadian dollars) 

As at October 31, 2019, the Bank’s CET1, Tier 1 and Total capital ratios were, respectively, 11.7%, 
15.0%  and  16.1%,  i.e.,  above  the  regulatory  requirements,  compared  to  ratios  of,  respectively, 
11.7%, 15.5% and 16.8% as at October 31, 2018. The CET1 capital ratio remained stable. Net income 
net of dividends, and common share issuances under the Stock Option Plan offset the application of 
the Standardized Approach for measuring Counterparty Credit Risk  (SA-CCR)  rules  for  measuring 
counterparty credit risk, growth in risk-weighted assets, the common share repurchases during the 
year  ended  October  31,  2019,  and  remeasurements  of  pension  plans  and  other  post-employment 
benefit plans. The decreases in the Tier 1 capital ratio and the Total capital ratio were essentially due 
to  growth  in  risk-weighted  assets.  As  at  October  31,  2019,  the  leverage  ratio  was  4.0%,  stable 
compared to October 31, 2018. The growth in Tier 1 capital was offset by growth in total leverage 
exposure. 

High-Quality Loan Portfolio 

For fiscal 2019, the Bank recorded $347 million in provisions for credit losses, $20 million more than 
those recorded in fiscal 2018. The higher year-over-year provisions stem mainly from provisions for 
credit losses on credit card receivables and on loans in the Financial Markets segment. However, the 
provisions for credit losses on loans of the USSF&I segment were down, essentially related to the 
Credigy Ltd. (Credigy) subsidiary. The 2019 provisions for credit losses represented 0.23% of average 
loans and acceptances, unchanged from fiscal 2018.

As at October 31 or for the year ended October 31 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Provisions for credit losses
Provisions for credit losses as a % of average loans and acceptances
Provisions for credit losses on impaired loans
as a % of average loans and acceptances

Net write-offs as a % of average loans and acceptances
Gross impaired loans(1)
Net impaired loans(2)

2018

327
0.23 %

0.23 %
0.23 %
630
404

(1)

(2)

All loans classified in Stage 3 of the expected credit loss model are impaired loans. The impaired loans presented in 
this table exclude purchased or originated credit-impaired (POCI) loans. 
Net impaired loans are presented net of allowances for credit losses on Stage 3 loan amounts drawn. The net impaired 
loans presented in this table exclude POCI loans. 

2015

2016 

2017 

2018 

%
1
.
6
1

%
0
.
5
1

%
7
.
1
1

%
0
.
4

%
0
.
4

As at October 31 

%
8
.
6
1

%
5
.
5
1

%
7
.
1
1

  2018 

CET1 
Tier 1 
Total 
Leverage ratio 

As at October 31, 2019 

(1)

6 % 

12 % 

4 % 

25 % 

53 % 

Personal Banking (2018: 54%) 
Commercial Banking (2018: 25%) 
Wealth Management (2018: 4%) 
Financial Markets – Corporate Banking (2018: 11%) 
U.S. Specialty Finance and International  
(2018: 6%) 

(1)

Excluding loans and acceptances in the Other heading 

National Bank of Canada
2019 Annual Report

19

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Overview 

EEccoonnoommiicc  RReevviieeww  aanndd  OOuuttllooookk

GGlloobbaall  EEccoonnoommyy  
While talks between China and the Unites States in the trade war opposing the two countries seem to be making headway, the damage to the global economy 
has already been considerable. Worldwide, the manufacturing sector has been contracting for the past six months, but the services sector has kept the economy 
afloat. Washington, like Beijing, stands to benefit from a truce. The trade war has hurt the Middle Kingdom, where slower growth is in large part due to a downturn 
not only in exports but also in investment. To address the situation, Chinese authorities have had to implement stimulus measures via monetary and budgetary 
policy in order to achieve their growth target of 6-6.5%. Owing to its relatively intense participation in the global value chain, the eurozone has been hardest hit 
by the turmoil of the trade war. Germany, for instance, may already be in the midst of a technical recession after its economy contracted again in the second 
quarter. Given the growing uncertainty, a majority of central banks have opted to ease their monetary policy in the third quarter, a record high since the global 
recession of 2008-2009. This should be enough for the global economy to keep expanding. We expect global economic growth to reach 3.2% in 2020(1), up 
slightly from 2019 (3.0%)(1). 

In the U.S., the longest growth streak in history is showing signs of losing steam, thus reviving fears of recession in the present context of strained international 
trade relations. In our opinion, the probability of a recession in the next twelve months does not exceed 30%, as a truce remains the most likely scenario in light 
of the coming U.S. presidential election. Moreover, the resilience of consumption and of the labour market is largely compensating for the weakness in foreign 
trade, which is putting the brakes on business investment. By lowering interest rates in October after twice doing so this summer, the U.S. Federal Reserve has 
contributed to setting the yield curve back on an upward slope after its inversion in 2019 had raised alarm bells. We believe that this rate adjustment will suffice 
for now. With the 2020 election in the offing, we can expect both monetary and budgetary policy to remain accommodative. We expect U.S. GDP to grow 2.3% 
and 1.9% in 2019 and 2020(1), respectively. 

CCaannaaddiiaann  EEccoonnoommyy  
The Canadian economy has once again proven the skeptics wrong after weakness in the energy and real estate sectors early in the year was seen as a bad omen. 
As it happens, the economy bounced back spectacularly in the second quarter, growing at an annualized rate of 3.7%. Job creation in the first ten months of the 
year has been the strongest ever since 2002 and wage growth has picked up relentlessly. The vitality of the labour market and lower interest rates have energized 
the housing market, which has managed to rebound in both Ontario and British Columbia. There is no denying that household debt levels are high and the 
savings rate very low at present. This should translate into moderate consumption growth. However, other sectors should step up in 2020 and push the economy 
to grow near potential (1.6%)(1). Canadian exports should benefit from persistently strong U.S. demand and a weak currency. Furthermore, given the federal 
election results, a fiscal stimulus is in the cards for 2020. Given the economy’s resilience and an annual core inflation rate essentially on target, the Bank of 
Canada should not have to follow the Fed’s lead in easing monetary policy, unless hostilities flare up again between China and the United States. 

QQuueebbeecc  EEccoonnoommyy  
The Quebec economy continues to forge ahead at a sustained pace. GDP has grown for ten months in a row, the longest such streak since statistics began to be 
calculated in 1997. The economy and the labour market are being spurred on by an accommodative monetary policy and budgetary stimulus. Over 87,000 net 
new jobs have been created in the province since the beginning of 2019, the best showing in this regard since 2012. The unemployment rate could hit a record 
low for a fourth straight year in 2019. Labour shortages are no doubt having an impact on the hourly wages of permanent employees, which in the past year have 
registered their steepest increase by far since 1998 (6.1% in 2019 third quarter). In this context, the real estate market, which remains more affordable in Quebec 
than elsewhere in Canada, is headed for a record year in terms of home sales. Economic growth is expected to slow down but should remain solid at 1.5% in 
2020 (2.5% in 2019)(1). The household savings rate is high and household debt is lower than in the rest of the country, which bodes well for consumption in the 
coming quarters. 

(1)  GDP growth expectations, Economy and Strategy Group 

20

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 

FFiinnaanncciiaall  AAnnaallyyssiiss  

CCoonnssoolliiddaatteedd  RReessuullttss  

Year ended October 31 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

OOppeerraattiinngg  rreessuullttss  
Net interest income 
Non-interest income 
Total revenues 
Non-interest expenses 
Contribution 
Provisions for credit losses 
Income before income taxes 
Income taxes 
Net income 
Diluted earnings per share (dollars) 

TTaaxxaabbllee  eeqquuiivvaalleenntt  bbaassiiss(1)  
Net interest income 
Non-interest income 
Income taxes 
Impact of taxable equivalent basis on net income 

SSppeecciiffiieedd  iitteemmss(1)  
Gain on disposal of Fiera Capital shares 
Gain on disposal of premises and equipment 
Remeasurement at fair value of an investment 
Impairment losses on premises and equipment and on intangible assets 
Provisions for onerous contracts 
Charge related to Maple 
Severance pay 
Specified items before income taxes 
Income taxes on specified items 
Specified items after income taxes 

OOppeerraattiinngg  rreessuullttss  oonn  aa  ttaaxxaabbllee  eeqquuiivvaalleenntt  bbaassiiss  aanndd  
   eexxcclluuddiinngg  ssppeecciiffiieedd  iitteemmss(1)  
Net interest income on a taxable equivalent basis  
Non-interest income on a taxable equivalent basis  

and excluding specified items 

Total revenues on a taxable equivalent basis and excluding specified items 
Non-interest expenses excluding specified items 
Contribution on a taxable equivalent basis and excluding specified items 
Provisions for credit losses 
Income before income taxes on a taxable equivalent basis and excluding specified items 
Income taxes on a taxable equivalent basis and excluding specified items 
Net income excluding specified items 
Diluted earnings per share excluding specified items (dollars) 

Average assets 
Average loans and acceptances 
Average deposits 
Efficiency ratio on a taxable equivalent basis and excluding specified items(1) 

22001199   

2018  

%%  cchhaannggee  

33,,559966
33,,883366
77,,443322
44,,330011
33,,113311
334477
22,,778844
446622
22,,332222
66..3344

119955
113355
333300
−−

7799
5500
((3333))
((5577))
((4455))
((1111))
((1100))
((2277))
((2211))
((66))  

33,,779911

33,,887755
77,,666666
44,,117788
33,,448888
334477
33,,114411
881133
22,,332288
66..3366

228866,,116622
114488,,776655
118844,,446600

3,382 
3,784 
7,166 
4,063 
3,103 
327 
2,776 
544 
2,232 
5.94 

144 
101 
245 
− 

− 
− 
− 
− 
− 
− 
− 
− 
− 
− 

3,526 

3,885 
7,411 
4,063 
3,348 
327 
3,021 
789 
2,232 
5.94 

265,940 
139,603 
167,176 

5544..55 %%

54.8  %

66  
11  
44  
66  
11  
66  
−−  
((1155))   
44  
77  

88  

−−  
33  
33  
44  
66  
44  
33  
44  
77  

88  
77  
1100  

(1) 

See the Financial Reporting Method section on pages 14 and 15 for additional information on non-GAAP financial measures. 

National Bank of Canada

21

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual ReportManagement’s Discussion and Analysis 
Financial Analysis 

AAnnaallyyssiiss  ooff  CCoonnssoolliiddaatteedd  RReessuullttss  

FFiinnaanncciiaall  RReessuullttss  
For fiscal 2019, the Bank’s net income totalled $2,322 million compared to $2,232 million in fiscal 2018, a year-over-year increase owing essentially to net 
income growth across most of the business segments, tempered by a slowdown in the Financial Markets segment during the first six months of fiscal 2019. 
Specified items, net of income taxes, had a $6 million unfavourable impact on net income in fiscal 2019. The fiscal 2019 specified items, net of income taxes, 
include a $68 million gain on disposal of Fiera Capital shares, a $43 million gain on disposal of premises and equipment, a $27 million loss on the remeasurement 
at fair value of the Bank’s investment in NSIA, $42 million in impairment losses on premises and equipment and on intangible assets, $33 million in provisions 
for onerous contracts, an $8 million charge related to Maple, and $7 million in severance pay. For fiscal 2019, the Bank’s net income excluding specified items(1) 
totalled $2,328 million, up 4% from $2,232 million in fiscal 2018. 

TToottaall  RReevveennuueess  
For fiscal 2019, the Bank’s total revenues amounted to $7,432 million, up $266 million or 4% from $7,166 million in fiscal 2018. The fiscal 2019 total revenues 
include a $79 million gain on disposal of Fiera Capital shares, a $50 million gain on disposal of premises and equipment, and a $33 million loss arising from the 
remeasurement at fair value of the Bank’s investment in NSIA. The increase in total revenues was driven by revenue growth across all of the Bank’s business 
segments. The 2019 total revenues on a taxable equivalent basis and excluding specified items(1) were up $255 million or 3% year over year. For additional 
information about total revenues on a taxable equivalent basis(1), see Table 2 on page 104.  

Net Interest Income 
For fiscal 2019, the Bank’s net interest income totalled $3,596 million, rising $214 million from $3,382 million in fiscal 2018. The 2019 net interest income on 
a taxable equivalent basis(1) was $3,791 million compared to $3,526 million in fiscal 2018 (Table 3, page 104).  

In the Personal and Commercial (P&C) segment, the fiscal 2019 net interest income totalled $2,383 million, a $107 million or 5% year-over-year increase driven 
mainly by growth in loan volumes (primarily from mortgage and commercial lending activity) and in deposit volumes, which rose 5% and 7%, respectively. This 
increase in P&C’s net interest income was tempered by a narrowing of the net interest margin, which was 2.23% in fiscal 2019 versus 2.24% in fiscal 2018, that 
was largely due to a decrease in loan margins. In the Wealth Management segment, the fiscal 2019 net interest income on a taxable equivalent basis(1) totalled 
$470 million, a $24 million year-over-year increase owing to growth in loan and deposit volumes. 

As for the Financial Markets segment, its 2019 net interest income on a taxable equivalent basis(1) was up $65 million or 16% year over year, mainly due to 
trading activities, and should be examined together with the other items of trading activity revenues. In the USSF&I segment, the fiscal 2019 net interest income 
was up $72 million year over year owing to growth in loan and deposit volumes at the Advanced Bank of Asia Limited (ABA Bank) subsidiary, tempered by a 
decrease in net interest income at the Credigy subsidiary. 

Non-Interest Income 
For fiscal 2019, non-interest income totalled $3,836 million versus $3,784 million in fiscal 2018. The 2019 non-interest income includes a $79 million gain on 
disposal of Fiera Capital shares, a $50 million gain on disposal of premises and equipment, and a $33 million loss arising from the remeasurement at fair value 
of the Bank’s investment in NSIA. Non-interest income on a taxable equivalent basis and excluding specified items(1) amounted to $3,875 million in fiscal 2019 
compared to $3,885 million in fiscal 2018. For additional information on non-interest income on a taxable equivalent basis(1), see Table 4 on page 105.  

The  fiscal  2019  revenues  from  underwriting  and  advisory  fees  were  down  19%  when  compared  to  fiscal  2018,  in  particular  due  to  merger  and  acquisition 
activities  in  the  Financial  Markets  segment.  Revenues  from  securities  brokerage  commissions  were  also  down,  declining  $17  million  as  a  result  of  lower 
transaction volume during fiscal 2019. Together, mutual fund revenues and trust service revenues totalled $1,058 million in fiscal 2019, a $33 million year-over-
year increase resulting from growth in fee-based revenues and from an increase in assets under administration and under management arising from stronger 
stock market performance in 2019. 

The trading revenues recorded in non-interest income amounted to $829 million in fiscal 2019 compared to $840 million in fiscal 2018. Trading revenues on a 
taxable equivalent basis(1) recorded in non-interest income totalled $964 million, an increase from $941 million in 2018. Including the portion recorded in net 
interest income, trading activity revenues on a taxable equivalent basis(1) amounted to $1,199 million in 2019, a $50 million year-over-year increase (Table 5, 
page 105) attributable to revenues from equity securities and from fixed-income securities, whereas revenues from commodities and foreign exchange activities 
and revenues from other segments decreased year over year. 

(1) 

See the Financial Reporting Method section on pages 14 and 15 for additional information on non-GAAP financial measures. 

22

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Financial Analysis 

In fiscal 2019, revenues from credit fees and revenues from acceptances and letters of credit and guarantee were up $14 million year over year, as there was 
increased credit activity in Commercial Banking, the Financial Markets segment, and the Credigy subsidiary. Card revenues posted 10% year-over-year growth 
during fiscal 2019, whereas revenues from deposit and payment service charges were down $9 million given a revision to rates. The Bank’s fiscal 2019 insurance 
revenues were up $15 million year over year, partly due to a revision to actuarial reserves. As for other-than-trading foreign exchange revenues and gains on 
non-trading securities, they remained stable when compared to fiscal 2018. The Bank’s share in the net income of associates and joint ventures was also up, 
rising $6 million year over year. Other revenues amounted to $251 million in fiscal 2019, a $78 million year-over-year increase owing mainly to the 2019 specified 
items, which include a gain on disposal of Fiera Capital shares and a gain on disposal of premises and equipment, tempered by a loss arising from a fair value 
remeasurement of the Bank’s investment in NSIA. 

NNoonn--IInntteerreesstt  EExxppeennsseess  
Non-interest expenses stood at $4,301 million in fiscal 2019, up $238 million from fiscal 2018 (Table 6, page 106). The 2019 non-interest expenses include 
$57 million in impairment losses on premises and equipment and on intangible assets, $45 million in provisions for onerous contracts, an $11 million charge 
related to Maple, and $10 million in severance pay. Non-interest expenses excluding specified items(1) stood at $4,178 million, up $115 million or 3% year over 
year. 

Compensation and employee benefits stood at $2,532 million in fiscal 2019, a 3% year-over-year increase resulting from an increase in the number of employees, 
which essentially stems from the expansion of ABA Bank’s banking network, and an annual increase in salaries, tempered somewhat by a lower pension expense. 
Occupancy expenses were also up, rising year over year due to provisions for onerous contracts recorded during the year in addition to business growth at ABA 
Bank. The increase in technology expenses, including amortization, came from the technology investments made to execute the Bank’s transformation plan and 
for business development activities, in addition to impairment losses on premises and equipment and intangible assets recorded in fiscal 2019. Other expenses 
were also up, mainly due to expenses related to the activities of the Financial Markets segment and to the charge related to Maple.  

PPrroovviissiioonnss  ffoorr  CCrreeddiitt  LLoosssseess  
For fiscal 2019, the Bank recorded $347 million in provisions for credit losses, $20 million more than the provisions recorded in fiscal 2018 (Table 7, page 107). 
This  increase  came  mainly  from  higher  credit  loss  provisions  on  credit  card  receivables,  which  rose  $7 million  year  over  year,  and  from  higher  credit  loss 
provisions on loans in the Financial Markets segment, which rose $26 million year over year. These higher provisions relate mainly to provisions on impaired 
loans. In the USSF&I segment, provisions for credit losses on loans were down $14 million, essentially attributable to the Credigy subsidiary. At $313 million, 
the fiscal 2019 provisions for credit losses on impaired loans represent 0.21% of average loans and acceptances, less than last year’s 0.23%, notably due to a 
decrease in the credit losses on impaired loans of the Credigy subsidiary, tempered by an increase in credit losses on impaired loans in the Financial Markets 
segment. 

IInnccoommee  TTaaxxeess  
Detailed information about the Bank’s income taxes is provided in Note 24 to the consolidated financial statements. For fiscal 2019, income taxes stood at 
$462 million, representing an effective tax rate of 17% compared to $544 million and an effective tax rate of 20% in 2018. This change in effective tax rate was 
created mainly by a realization of capital gains taxed at a lower rate, by higher income from lower tax rate jurisdictions, and by a year-over-year increase in the 
2019 tax-exempt dividend income. 

(1) 

See the Financial Reporting Method section on pages 14 and 15 for additional information on non-GAAP financial measures. 

National Bank of Canada

23

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual ReportManagement’s Discussion and Analysis 

BBuussiinneessss  SSeeggmmeenntt  AAnnaallyyssiiss

The Bank carries out its activities in four business segments, which are defined below. For presentation purposes, other activities are grouped in the Other 
heading. Each reportable segment is distinguished by services offered, type of clientele and marketing strategy. 

The presentation of segment disclosures is consistent with the presentation adopted by the Bank for the year beginning November 1, 2018. This presentation 
reflects the fact that advisor banking service activities, which had previously been presented in the Wealth Management segment, are now presented in the 
Personal and Commercial segment. The Bank made this change to better align the monitoring of its activities with its management structure. 

National Bank of Canada 

Business 
Segments 

Personal and 
Commercial 

Wealth  
Management 

Financial  
Markets 

U.S. Specialty  
Finance and  
International 

 Banking services 
 Credit services 
 Financing 
 Investment solutions
 Insurance

Major 
Activities 

 Full-service brokerage 
 Private banking
 Direct brokerage 
 Investment solutions
 Administrative and trade

execution services 

 Transaction products for 

advisors 

 Trust and estate services

 Equities, fixed-income, 

 U.S. Specialty Finance

commodities and 
foreign exchange 
 Corporate banking 
 Investment banking 

  Credigy
 International 

  ABA Bank (Cambodia)
  Minority interests in 
emerging markets 

Other: Treasury activities, liquidity management, Bank funding, asset/liability management, corporate units 

RReessuullttss  bbyy  BBuussiinneessss  SSeeggmmeenntt  

Year ended October 31(1) 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Net interest income(2) 
Non-interest income(2) 
Total revenues 
Non-interest expenses 
Contribution 
Provisions for credit losses 
Income before income taxes  
  (recovery) 
Income taxes (recovery)(2) 
Net income 
Non-controlling interests 
Net income attributable to the  
Bank’s shareholders 
Average assets  

Personal and 
Commercial 
2018 

22001199  

Wealth 
Management 
2018 

22001199  

22,,338833 
11,,006699 
33,,445522 
11,,881166 
11,,663366 
223377 

11,,339999 
337722 
11,,002277 
−− 

2,276 
1,033 
3,309 
1,782 
1,527 
228 

1,299 
347 
952 
− 

447700 
11,,227733 
11,,774433 
11,,006677 
667766 
−− 

667766 
117777 
449999 
−− 

446
1,243
1,689
1,058
631
1

630
166
464
−

22001199  

447744
11,,227766
11,,775500
774433
11,,000077
3300

997777
226600
771177
−−

Financial 
Markets 
2018 

22001199  

USSF&I 
2018 

409
1,334
1,743
697
1,046
4

1,042
278
764
−

665566
5599
771155
228855
443300
8800

335500
7711
227799
4400

584
55
639
251
388
94

294
72
222
38

22001199  

((338877)) 
115599 
((222288)) 
339900 
((661188)) 
−− 

((661188)) 
((441188)) 
((220000)) 
2266 

Other 
2018 

(333)
119
(214)
275
(489)
−

(489)
(319)
(170)
49

22001199  

Total 
2018 

33,,559966
33,,883366
77,,443322
44,,330011
33,,113311
334477

22,,778844
446622
22,,332222
6666

3,382 
3,784 
7,166 
4,063 
3,103 
327 

2,776 
544 
2,232 
87 

11,,002277 

952 
111122,,779988  106,857 

449999 
66,,221199 

464
6,167

771177
111122,,449933

764
100,721

223399
1100,,998855

184
9,270

((222266))  
4433,,666677 

(219)
42,925

22,,225566
228866,,116622

2,145 
265,940 

(1) 

(2) 

For the year ended October 31, 2018, certain amounts have been reclassified, mainly amounts related to advisor banking service activities, which have been transferred from the Wealth 
Management segment to the Personal and Commercial segment.  
The Net interest income, Non-interest income and Income taxes (recovery) items of the business segments are presented on a taxable equivalent basis. See the Financial Reporting Method 
section on pages 14 and 15 for additional information on non-GAAP financial measures. 

24

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 

BBuussiinneessss  SSeeggmmeenntt  AAnnaallyyssiiss  ||  PPeerrssoonnaall  aanndd  CCoommmmeerrcciiaall

The Personal and Commercial segment meets the financial needs of close to 2.6 million individuals and approximately 137,000 businesses across Canada. 
These clients entrust the Bank to manage, invest, and safeguard their assets and to finance their projects. Clients turn to the Bank’s experienced advisors who 
take  the  time  to  understand  their  specific  needs  and  help  them  reach  their  financial  goals.  And  thanks  to  the  Bank’s  convenient  self-banking  channels, 
422 branches and 939 banking machines across Canada, clients can do their daily banking whenever and wherever they wish. 

PPeerrssoonnaall  BBaannkkiinngg  

Personal Banking provides a complete range of financing and investment products and services, mainly in Quebec, to help clients reach their financial goals 
throughout  every  stage  in  their  lives.  It  offers  everyday  transaction  solutions,  mortgage  loans  and  home  equity  lines  of  credit,  consumer  loans,  payment 
solutions, savings and investment solutions as well as a diverse range of insurance products. 

CCoommmmeerrcciiaall  BBaannkkiinngg  

Commercial Banking serves the financial needs of small and medium-sized enterprises and large corporations, helping them to achieve growth. It offers a full 
line  of  financial  products  and  services,  including  credit,  deposit  and  investment  solutions,  international  trade,  foreign  exchange  transactions,  payroll,  cash 
management, insurance, electronic transactions and complementary services. With deep roots in the business community for 160 years, Commercial Banking is 
Quebec’s leading provider of the core banking products for businesses and is also known across Canada for its expertise in targeted specialized industries such 
as health, agriculture and agri-food, technology, creative industries, real estate, and energy. 

EEccoonnoommiicc  aanndd  MMaarrkkeett  RReevviieeww  

The economic environment is resilient in Quebec and in the rest of the country, driven by accommodative monetary policy and fiscal stimulus. Consumers are 
benefitting from strong employment gains and accelerating wages. The unemployment rate is on track to hit a record low for a fourth straight year in 2019 in 
Quebec.  Wages  are  rising  at  the  fastest  pace  among  provinces,  and  the  savings  rate  stands  at  a  multi-year  high,  providing  a  cushion  that  can  support 
consumption. Furthermore, both consumer and business confidence are high in Quebec. The province’s household debt level is below the Canadian average, 
and  housing  affordability  is  better.  Business  investment  is  being  supported  by  accelerated  depreciation  measures  implemented  by  the  federal  and  some 
provincial governments. The financial sector is quickly transforming toward digital and mobile services, and there is vigorous competition between established 
entities and new market participants that are distinguishing themselves through new technologies.  

The economic environment in 2019 and the outlook for 2020 are discussed in more detail in the Economic Review and Outlook section on page 20. 

KKeeyy  SSuucccceessss  FFaaccttoorrss  

Strong penetration in our core Quebec market thanks to a full range of personal and commercial services.


 Well-established and enduring client relationships grounded in an ability to provide both advice and a full range of solutions tailored to specific client needs. 





The largest sales force in Quebec, consisting of both generalists and specialists, positioning us to offer the best advice to clients.
Unmatched closeness to Quebec entrepreneurs, with leading expertise in business lending and risk management solutions. 
Recognized expertise across Canada in specialized industries.
Ability to meet all of the needs facing businesses and entrepreneurs in collaboration with other Bank segments.

National Bank of Canada

25

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual ReportManagement’s Discussion and Analysis 
Business Segment Analysis | Personal and Commercial 

OObbjjeeccttiivveess  aanndd  SSttrraatteeggiieess  

The Personal and Commercial segment is targeting growth by becoming a more simple, efficient bank focused on constantly improving the client experience. 

Strategic Priorities 

2019 Achievements and Highlights 

Maintain volume growth and 
accelerate net client acquisition 

Improve the client experience 

Accelerate the digital 
transformation 

Improve efficiency 

  Raised our presence through greater geographic coverage, a larger sales force, and an enhanced advisory 
offering, including a partnership with M3 Mortgage Group whereby mortgage brokers can offer Bank products 
to their clients. 

  Personalized our advisory services to target strategic clients such as newcomers, millennials, professionals, 

people aged 50 to 64 and SMEs. 

  Assisted Canadian SMEs with their export activities through a partnership with Export Development Canada 

(EDC). 

  Maintained a high credit quality, with credit loss provisions on impaired loans at 22 basis points for Personal 

Banking and at 10 basis points for Commercial Banking.  

  Enhanced the capabilities of the transactional platform and mobile app to deliver a simpler, safer, and more 

intuitive digital experience.  

  Placed emphasis on a team approach, one that combines generalists and specialists, to give customers the 

 

best possible advice and solutions.  
Transformed 35 branches to assist clients in their switch to self-service, by removing physical barriers, and 
by being proactive with the advisory offering. 

  Strengthened  business  relations  with  companies  and  improved  the  advisory  offering  to  entrepreneurs 
through  strategic  partnerships,  such  as  the  partnership  with  Operio  whereby  SMEs  can  benefit  from 
integrated accounting and advisory services. 

  Enhanced online origination processes (account opening and mortgage preapproval). 
Launched NATgo, an entirely digital investment experience based on client goals.  
 
  Won  three  major  Boomerang  Awards,  which  recognize  outstanding  digital  branding  performance,  for  the 

experience provided on our transactional sites, mobile apps and website.  

  Simplified our product offering, particularly for savings accounts. 
  Unified  client  processes,  both  for  retail  clients  (account  openings,  payments,  residential  financing  and 

investing) and for business clients (account openings, financing, and cash management).  

PPrriioorriittiieess  aanndd  OOuuttllooookk  ffoorr  22002200  

MMaaiinnttaaiinn  vvoolluummee  ggrroowwtthh  aanndd  aacccceelleerraattee  nneett  cclliieenntt  aaccqquuiissiittiioonn  


Grow our client base, particularly among newcomers, millennials, professionals, peopled aged 50 to 64 and SMEs, with our online origination capabilities, 
while enhancing the Bank’s presence with clients who have strong growth potential.
Continue to tailor our offering to market particularities, competition, geographic location and micromarkets.



OOppttiimmiizzee  tthhee  cclliieenntt  eexxppeerriieennccee   






Provide clients with a simple, unified experience characterized by an integrated approach across all products and distribution channels.
Expand self-service options on our digital channels.
Continue to deploy an innovative experience within 100-some branches in the network. 
Enhance the user experience by providing a consolidated view of all investments and a fully automated savings service.
Help business clients to grow by giving them access to the Bank’s network of entrepreneurs. 

FFooccuuss  oonn  eeffffiicciieennccyy 


Continue simplification and automation of certain targeted processes (transactional solutions, payments, and commercial financing).

26

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Business Segment Analysis | Personal and Commercial 

SSeeggmmeenntt  RReessuullttss  ––  PPeerrssoonnaall  aanndd  CCoommmmeerrcciiaall  

Year ended October 31 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Net interest income 
Non-interest income 
Total revenues 
Non-interest expenses 
Contribution 
Provisions for credit losses 
Income before income taxes 
Income taxes 
NNeett  iinnccoommee  
Net interest margin(2) 
Average interest-bearing assets 
Average assets 
Average loans and acceptances 
Net impaired loans(3)  
Net impaired loans(3) as a % of average loans and acceptances 
Average deposits 
Efficiency ratio 

22001199  

2018(1) 

%%  cchhaannggee  

22,,338833
11,,006699
33,,445522
11,,881166
11,,663366
223377
11,,339999
337722
11,,002277
22..2233 %%  

110066,,999955
111122,,779988
111122,,229900
440099
00..44 %%  

6622,,448877

5522..66 %%  

2,276 
1,033 
3,309 
1,782 
1,527 
228 
1,299 
347 
952 
2.24  %

101,446 
106,857 
106,513 
386 
0.4  %

58,383 

53.9  %

55  
33  
44  
22  
77  
44  
88  
77  
88  

55  
66  
55  
66  

77  

(1) 

(2) 
(3) 

For the year ended October 31, 2018, certain amounts have been reclassified, mainly amounts related to advisor banking service activities, which have been transferred from the Wealth 
Management segment to the Personal and Commercial segment. 
Net interest margin is calculated by dividing net interest income by average interest-bearing assets. 
Net impaired loans are presented net of allowances for credit losses on Stage 3 loan amounts drawn. 

AAvveerraaggee  LLooaannss  aanndd  AAcccceeppttaanncceess  aanndd  DDeeppoossiittss  
Year ended October 31 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

106,513

111122,,229900

58,383

6622,,448877

TToottaall  RReevveennuueess  bbyy  GGeeooggrraapphhiicc  DDiissttrriibbuuttiioonn  
Year ended October 31, 2019 

21%

79%

Loans and
acceptances

Deposits

Loans and
acceptances

Deposits

   2018 

      22001199  

Personal Banking 
Commercial Banking 

Province of Quebec (2018: 79%) 
Other provinces (2018: 21%) 

National Bank of Canada

27

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual ReportManagement’s Discussion and Analysis 
Business Segment Analysis | Personal and Commercial 

FFiinnaanncciiaall  RReessuullttss  

In the Personal and Commercial segment, net income totalled $1,027 million in fiscal 2019, up 8% 
from $952 million in fiscal 2018. The segment’s total revenues rose $143 million or 4% year over 
year, primarily owing to growth in net interest income, which was up $107 million, as well as to a $36 
million increase in non-interest income. The growth in net interest income was driven mostly by higher 
personal  and  commercial  loan  and  deposit  volumes  but  was  tempered  by  a  narrowing  of  the  net 
interest margin, which was 2.23% in fiscal 2019 versus 2.24% in fiscal 2018, a decrease resulting 
mainly from loan margins. 

The  segment’s  non-interest  expenses  stood  at  $1,816  million  in  fiscal  2019,  a  2%  year-over-year 
increase attributable mainly to increases in operations support charges and in amortization expense 
arising from the segment's activities as well as in compensation and employee benefits. Given these 
results, the segment’s fiscal 2019 contribution was up 7% year over year. And, at 52.6% for fiscal 
2019, the segment’s efficiency ratio improved by 1.3 percentage points from 53.9% in 2018. 

For fiscal 2019, the segment recorded $237 million in provisions for credit losses, $9 million more 
than  the  $228  million  recorded  in  fiscal  2018.  This  increase  came  mainly  from  higher  credit  loss 
provisions on credit card receivables. 

PPeerrssoonnaall  BBaannkkiinngg  

TToottaall  RReevveennuueess  bbyy  CCaatteeggoorryy  
Year ended October 31, 2019 

37% 

46% 

4%

13% 

Retail (2018: 46%) 
Payment Solutions (2018: 13%) 
Insurance (2018: 4%) 
Commercial Banking (2018: 37%) 

For  fiscal  2019,  Personal  Banking’s  total  revenues  amounted  to  $2,164  million,  up  4%  from 
$2,085 million in fiscal 2018. This growth came mainly from a 4% increase in loan volumes, mainly 
mortgage  loans,  and  a  6%  increase  in  deposit  volumes.  Non-interest  income  was  up  $21  million, 
essentially due to card revenues and to insurance revenues, reflecting revisions made to actuarial 
reserves.  Personal  Banking’s  non-interest  expenses  rose  by  $19  million  in  2019,  resulting  mainly 
from higher technology investment expenses as well as higher operations support charges related to 
the segment's activities. 

OOppeerraattiinngg  RReessuullttss  
Year ended October 31 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

3,309  

33,,445522    

CCoommmmeerrcciiaall  BBaannkkiinngg

For fiscal 2019, Commercial Banking’s total revenues amounted to $1,288 million, rising 5% from 
$1,224  million  in  fiscal  2018.  Its  net  interest  income  was  up,  essentially  due  to  growth  in  loan 
volumes and deposit volumes, both of which rose 8%, tempered by a narrowing of the net interest 
margin on loan and deposit volumes. Non-interest income grew $15 million year over year owing to 
increases  in  revenues  from  bankers’  acceptances  and  in  revenues  from  derivative  financial 
instruments. Commercial Banking’s non-interest expenses rose $15 million in fiscal 2019, mainly due 
to  higher  compensation  and  employee  benefits  as  well  as  to  higher  operations  support  charges 
related to the segment's activities. 

1,782  

11,,881166    

952  

11,,002277    

Total
revenues

Non-
interest
expenses

Net
income

Total
revenues

Non-
interest
expenses

Net
income

  2018 

        22001199  

Personal Banking 
Commercial Banking 

28

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 

BBuussiinneessss  SSeeggmmeenntt  AAnnaallyyssiiss  ||  WWeeaalltthh  MMaannaaggeemmeenntt  

As a leader in Quebec and firmly established across Canada, the Wealth Management segment serves all market segments by emphasizing advisory services 
and  close  client  relationships.  It  delivers  a  full  range  of  wealth  management  products  and  solutions  through  a  multi-channel  distribution  network  and  a 
differentiated  business  model.  The  Wealth  Management  segment  also  proposes  investment  solutions  to  independent  advisors  as  well  as  solutions  to 
institutional clients.  

BBuussiinneessss  UUnniittss  

FFuullll--SSeerrvviiccee  BBrrookkeerraaggee  
Drawing on the largest network of investment advisors in Quebec, National Bank Financial – Wealth Management (NBFWM) provides wealth management advisory 
services through close to 1,000 advisors at over 100 service points across Canada. Its advisors serve over 400,000 retail clients, proposing portfolio management 
services, financial and succession planning services, and insurance services while working in close collaboration with other segments of the Bank.  

PPrriivvaattee  BBaannkkiinngg  
Private Banking 1859  (PB1859)  offers  highly  personalized  wealth  management  services  and  advice  across  Canada,  helping  affluent  clients  to  benefit  from 
comprehensive management of their personal and family fortunes. As a true market leader in Quebec, PB1859 continues to expand its operations across Canada 
with its extensive range of financial solutions and strategies covering the protection, growth, and transition of wealth. 

DDiirreecctt  BBrrookkeerraaggee  
National Bank Direct Brokerage (NBDB) offers a multitude of financial products and investment tools to self-directed investors across Canada through its online 
investment solution. NBDB helps customers who want to manage their own investments to do so through a trading platform and an optimized mobile trading 
platform or by speaking directly to a representative on the phone.  

IInnvveessttmmeenntt  SSoolluuttiioonnss    
National Bank Investments Inc. (NBI) manufactures and offers mutual funds, investment solutions, and services to consumers and institutional investors through 
the Bank’s extended network. With its open architecture model, NBI is Canada’s largest investment fund manager to entrust the management of its investments 
exclusively to external portfolio managers.  

AAddmmiinniissttrraattiivvee  aanndd  TTrraaddee  EExxeeccuuttiioonn  SSeerrvviicceess  
National Bank Independent Network (NBIN) is a Canadian leader in providing administrative services such as trade execution, custodial services, and brokerage 
solutions to many independent financial services firms across Canada, in particular to introducing brokers, portfolio managers, and investment fund managers.  

TTrraannssaaccttiioonn  PPrroodduuccttss  
The  Wealth  Management  segment  provides  independent  advisors  across  Canada  with  an  extensive  range  of  investment  products,  including  guaranteed 
investment certificates (GICs), mutual funds, notes, structured products, and monetization, helping to support their own business needs and client relationships.  

TTrruusstt  aanndd  EEssttaattee  SSeerrvviicceess  
Through National Bank Trust Inc. (NBT), the Wealth Management segment provides retail and institutional clients with turnkey services and solutions. Its team 
of experts offers a full range of high value-added services designed to consolidate, protect, and transfer its customers’ wealth and give them peace of mind. NBT 
also offers integrated trustee and depository services as well as securities custody services. 

EEccoonnoommiicc  aanndd  MMaarrkkeett  RReevviieeww  

Policymakers acted pre-emptively as a fear of the global economy sliding into a recession increased as a result of the trade conflict between the United States 
and China. The U.S. Federal Reserve applied a rate-cut, realizing a 75-basis point decline in its policy rate. Given the resilience of the Canadian economy and 
inflation, the Bank of Canada did not deem stimulus as necessary as the Canadian economy is benefitting from lower long-term rates and improving global 
financial conditions. Those welcomed developments, combined with resilience in the labour market and housing market, suggest steady growth in the coming 
quarters. 

The economic environment in 2019 and the outlook for 2020 are discussed in more detail in the Economic Review and Outlook section on page 20. 

National Bank of Canada

29

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual ReportManagement’s Discussion and Analysis 
Business Segment Analysis | Wealth Management 

KKeeyy  SSuucccceessss  FFaaccttoorrss  










Leadership position in Quebec in terms of market share and brand recognition.
Largest manager of managers in Canada (open architecture); clients benefit from objective advice.
Leadership position in Canada in securities custody and brokerage services for independent wealth management firms.
Firmly rooted across Canada in full-service brokerage and private management services.
Ability to forge solid, lasting client relationships built on personalized advice and solutions provided at every life stage.
High level of client satisfaction with direct brokerage services. 
Proven track record and excellent reputation as a business partner among non-bank financial institutions.
Ability to work closely with the Personal and Commercial segment and to leverage its distribution platform.

OObbjjeeccttiivveess  aanndd  SSttrraatteeggiieess  

The Wealth Management segment will capitalize on the strength of the Bank's brand, distribution capacity, and differentiated business model to grow market 
shares in the mass and mass affluent markets. The segment seeks to increase market penetration across Canada through organic growth as well as targeted 
actions and partnerships.  

Strategic Priorities 

2019 Achievements and Highlights 

Transform the partnership with clients 

Launched National Bank exchange-traded funds (ETFs). 
Launched NATgo, an entirely digital investment experience based on client goals.  

 
 
  Deployed a strategy that centres on goals and life stages. 
  Deployed a new online brokerage platform. 

Invest in high-growth markets 

  Gradually deploying a new MFDA (Mutual Fund Dealers Association of Canada) platform for B2B clients. 
  Developed a new cross-selling strategy in partnership with other Bank segments. 
  Developed a strategy for women investors. 

Continue transforming Wealth 
Management’s culture 

  Promoted a joint mission and an integrated client approach within Wealth Management. 
Implemented concrete measures to promote innovation and accelerate transformation. 
 

PPrriioorriittiieess  aanndd  OOuuttllooookk  ffoorr  22002200  

TTrraannssffoorrmm  tthhee  wwaayy  wwee  sseerrvvee  cclliieennttss  




Deploy a customer relationship management (CRM) system for employees of NBFWM.
Enhance the online brokerage and account opening platform.
Increase the usability of the new MFDA platform, which is designed to replace certain existing asset management platforms.

CCoonncceennttrraattee  oonn  ffaasstt--ggrroowwiinngg  mmaarrkkeettss  



Launch new types of investment products.
Develop markets outside Quebec, including the Ontario strategy to grow PB1859’s market presence, and its acquisition of high net worth customers and
increase synergies with the Personal and Commercial segment.
Implement the multi-family office strategy.  



CCoonnttiinnuuee  ttrraannssffoorrmmiinngg  WWeeaalltthh  MMaannaaggeemmeenntt’’ss  ccuullttuurree 



Invest in client satisfaction measures in various Wealth Management subsidiaries.
Fine-tune the leadership skills of managers using best management practices.

30

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Business Segment Analysis | Wealth Management 

SSeeggmmeenntt  RReessuullttss  ––  WWeeaalltthh  MMaannaaggeemmeenntt  

Year ended October 31 
(taxable equivalent basis)(1) 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Net interest income on a taxable equivalent basis 
Fee-based revenues 
Transaction and other revenues 
Total revenues on a taxable equivalent basis 
Non-interest expenses 
Contribution on a taxable equivalent basis 
Provisions for credit losses 
Income before income taxes on a taxable equivalent basis 
Income taxes on a taxable equivalent basis 
NNeett  iinnccoommee    
Average assets  
Average loans and acceptances 
Net impaired loans(3) 
Average deposits  
Efficiency ratio on a taxable equivalent basis(1) 

22001199    

2018(2)  

%%  cchhaannggee  

447700
11,,001133
226600
11,,774433
11,,006677
667766
−−
667766
117777
449999
66,,221199
44,,885555
33
3322,,332211

446 
983 
260 
1,689 
1,058 
631 
1 
630 
166 
464 
6,167 
4,720 
3 
31,261 

6611..22 %%

62.6  %

55  
33  
−−  
33  
11  
77  

77  
77  
88  
11  
33  
−−  
33  

(1) 
(2) 

(3) 

See the Financial Reporting Method section on pages 14 and 15 for additional information on non-GAAP financial measures. 
For the year ended October 31, 2018, certain amounts have been reclassified, mainly amounts related to advisor banking service activities, which have been transferred from the Wealth 
Management segment to the Personal and Commercial segment.  
Net impaired loans are presented net of allowances for credit losses on Stage 3 loan amounts drawn. 

AAsssseettss  UUnnddeerr  AAddmmiinniissttrraattiioonn  aanndd  UUnnddeerr  MMaannaaggeemmeenntt  ––  WWeeaalltthh  MMaannaaggeemmeenntt  

As at October 31 
(millions of Canadian dollars)  

AAsssseettss  uunnddeerr  aaddmmiinniissttrraattiioonn  

AAsssseettss  uunnddeerr  mmaannaaggeemmeenntt  

Individual 
Mutual funds 

AAsssseettss  uunnddeerr  aaddmmiinniissttrraattiioonn  aanndd  uunnddeerr  mmaannaaggeemmeenntt  

22001199  

448844,,663366

4433,,994411
3366,,881199
8800,,776600

556655,,339966

2018  

%%  cchhaannggee  

416,199

37,007
31,874
68,881

485,080

1166

1199
1166
1177

1177

AAsssseettss  UUnnddeerr  AAddmmiinniissttrraattiioonn  aanndd  UUnnddeerr  
MMaannaaggeemmeenntt  
Year ended October 31 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

TToottaall  RReevveennuueess  bbyy  GGeeooggrraapphhiicc  DDiissttrriibbuuttiioonn 
Year ended October 31, 2019  
(on a taxable equivalent basis)(1) 

9
9
1
,
6
1
4

1
8
8
,
8
6

66
33
66
,,
44
88
44

00
66
77
,,
00
88

36%

64%

  2018 

22001199  

Assets under administration 
Assets under management 

Province of Quebec (2018: 62%) 
Other provinces (2018: 38%) 

(1)  See the Financial Reporting Method section on pages 14 and 15 for additional information on non-GAAP financial measures. 

National Bank of Canada

31

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual ReportManagement’s Discussion and Analysis 
Business Segment Analysis | Wealth Management 

FFiinnaanncciiaall  RReessuullttss  

In the Wealth Management segment, net income totalled $499 million in fiscal 2019, up $35 million 
or 8% from $464 million in fiscal 2018. The segment’s total revenues on a taxable equivalent basis(1) 
amounted to $1,743 million in fiscal 2019, up $54 million from $1,689 million in fiscal 2018. This 
increase  stems  mainly  from  a  5%  increase  in  net  interest  income  on  a  taxable  equivalent  basis(1) 
owing to growth in the segment’s loan and deposit volumes. The fiscal 2019 fee-based revenues were 
up 3% year over year given growth in assets under administration and under management generated 
by net inflows into various solutions and due to stronger stock market performance in fiscal 2019. As 
for the transaction-based and other revenues category, it remained stable when compared to fiscal 
2018. 

The segment’s non-interest expenses stood at $1,067 million in fiscal 2019, a $9 million year-over-
year increase attributable mainly to higher compensation and employee benefits as well as to higher 
operations support charges related to the segment's initiatives. The 2019 efficiency ratio on a taxable 
equivalent basis(1) was 61.2% in fiscal 2019, an improvement of 1.4 percentage points from 62.6% 
in 2018. 

The segment’s provisions for credit losses were negligible in fiscal years 2019 and 2018. 

AAsssseettss  UUnnddeerr  AAddmmiinniissttrraattiioonn  aanndd  UUnnddeerr  MMaannaaggeemmeenntt  
As at October 31, 2019, assets under administration and under management totalled $565.4 billion, 
rising $80.3 billion or 17% from October 31, 2018 due to net inflows into various solutions and to 
stronger stock market performance in fiscal 2019.  

Assets  under  administration  totalled  $484.6  billion  as  at  October  31,  2019,  up  $68.4  billion 
compared  to  October 31, 2018. This increase came from net  inflows into various solutions  and  to 
stronger stock market performance in fiscal 2019.  

In the individuals category, assets under management amounted to $43.9 billion as at October 31, 
2019  compared  to  $37.0  billion  as  at  October  31,  2018.  The  mutual  funds  category  totalled 
$36.8 billion as at October 31, 2019, rising 16% from October 31, 2018. 

TToottaall  RReevveennuueess  bbyy  CCaatteeggoorryy 
Year ended October 31, 2019 
(on a taxable equivalent basis)(1) 

15% 

27% 

58% 

Net interest income (2018: 27%) 
Fee-based services (2018: 58%) 
Transaction-based and other revenues (2018: 15%) 

OOppeerraattiinngg  RReessuullttss  
Year ended October 31 
(on a taxable equivalent basis)(1) 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

1,689  

11,,774433    

1,058  

11,,006677    

464  

449999    

      2018 

    22001199  

Total revenues 
Non-interest expenses 
Net income 

(1) 

See  the  Financial  Reporting  Method  section  on  pages  14  and  15  for  additional  information  on  non-GAAP  financial 
measures. 

32

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 

BBuussiinneessss  SSeeggmmeenntt  AAnnaallyyssiiss  ||  FFiinnaanncciiaall  MMaarrkkeettss  

The  Financial  Markets  segment  offers  a  complete  suite  of  products  and  services  to  corporations,  institutional  clients,  and  public-sector  entities.  Whether 
providing comprehensive advisory services and research or capital markets products and services, its focus is on client relationships and their growth. Over 800 
professionals serve client needs through offices in North America, Europe, the U.K. and Asia. 

BBuussiinneessss  UUnniittss  

The Financial Markets segment operates two main business lines: Global Markets and Corporate and Investment Banking. 

GGlloobbaall  MMaarrkkeettss  
Financial Markets is a Canadian leader in risk management solutions and structured products and is the largest market-maker in exchange-traded funds (ETFs) 
in Canada by volume. The segment offers solutions covering fixed income securities, currencies, equities and commodities in order to mitigate the financial and 
business risks of clients. It also provides new product development expertise to asset managers and fund companies and supports their success by providing 
liquidity, research, and counterparty services. Financial Markets also provides tailored investment products across all asset classes to institutional and retail 
distribution channels. 

CCoorrppoorraattee  aanndd  IInnvveessttmmeenntt  BBaannkkiinngg  
Financial Markets provides services in corporate banking, advisory and capital markets. It offers loan origination and syndication to corporations for project 
financing, merger and acquisition transactions, and corporate financing solutions. The segment is also an investment banking leader in Quebec and across 
Canada. Its comprehensive services include strategic advisory for financing and mergers and acquisitions as well as for debt and equity underwriting. It is the 
Canadian leader in government and corporate high-yield debt underwriting. Dominant in Quebec, it leads deals for provincial and municipal governments across 
Canada while growing its national position in infrastructure and project financing. Financial Markets is active in securitization financing, mainly Government-of-
Canada-insured mortgages and mortgage-backed securities. 

EEccoonnoommiicc  aanndd  MMaarrkkeett  RReevviieeww  

In 2019, global uncertainties dominated financial headlines. Trade negotiations between the United States and China oscillated between detente and escalation 
before taking a turn for the better at the end of October with the announcement of significant progress for a truce between the two countries. Given the growing 
uncertainty and the slowing global economy, a majority of central banks have opted to ease their monetary policy in the third quarter, a record high since the 
global  recession  of  2008-2009.  The  Bank  of  Canada  did  not  deem  it  necessary  to  add  stimulus  as  labour  market  strength  contributed  to  a  housing  market 
rebound. Steady growth is expected in the coming quarters, as financial conditions have improved and some fiscal stimulus is expected next year. 

The economic environment in 2019 and the outlook for 2020 are discussed in more detail in the Economic Review and Outlook section on page 20. 

KKeeyy  SSuucccceessss  FFaaccttoorrss  








Pan-Canadian  franchise  with  established  leadership  in  government  debt  underwriting,  ETF  market-making,  and  securities  lending  and  recognized
capabilities in risk management solutions, structured products and equity derivatives. 
Integrated approach, teamwork, and alignment among all groups.
Focused on client relationships and diversified client activity and revenue mix.
Sound risk management.
Flexible approach to capital allocation and proven ability to adapt to evolving capital market conditions and deliver consistent financial performance.

National Bank of Canada

33

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual ReportManagement’s Discussion and Analysis 
Business Segment Analysis | Financial Markets 

OObbjjeeccttiivveess  aanndd  SSttrraatteeggiieess  

Strategic Priorities 

2019 Achievements and Highlights 

Ranked first in government debt underwriting: 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Lead and joint lead on Canada Mortgage Bond issuances aggregating $30.25 billion. 
Lead on multiple deals for the Province of Quebec aggregating $9.5 billion. 
Inaugural joint lead for the Government of Canada on a US$3.0 billion 3-year offering. 
Inaugural lead for the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador on a $300 million 10-year offering.  
Lead on the First Nations Finance Authority’s $163 million 9-year offering.  
Joint lead for South Coast British Columbia Transportation Authority’s (TransLink) $200 million 31-year Green 
Bond offering. 
Joint lead for the City of Toronto’s $200 million 20-year Green Bond offering. 

 

Maintain leadership in Canadian debt 
underwriting 

Lead in corporate debt underwriting: 
 
 
 

Joint bookrunner on a $300 million senior unsecured note offering for Parkland Fuel Corporation.
Joint bookrunner on a $350 million 2.25-year senior unsecured debenture offering for SmartCentres REIT. 
Joint bookrunner on an inaugural $125 million senior unsecured note offering for Kruger Packaging Holdings 
L.P. 
Joint bookrunner on a $200 million 5-year senior unsecured note offering for Cominar REIT. 

 
  Sole lead placement agent on a $325 million private placement transaction for Capital Power Corporation. 
 

Joint bookrunner on two U.S.-dollar high-yield transactions for Fairstone Financial Inc., raising US$425 million 
for the company. 
Joint bookrunner on a $450 million dual tranche offering for EPCOR Utilities. 
Joint bookrunner on a $350 million senior unsecured debenture offering for CI Financial Corporation. 
Joint bookrunner on a $700 million dual-tranche offering for Enbridge Gas Inc. 
Joint  bookrunner  on  a  US$750  million  inaugural  U.S.-dollar  bail-in  and  first  sustainable  note  offering  for 
National Bank of Canada. 

 
 
 
 

Maintain leadership in investment 
products 

Strengthened our relationships with international networks by issuing more than $1 billion of notes outside of 
Canada, which contributed to the diversification of the Bank’s deposit base. 

Ranked first in ETF market-making in Canada: 
 

Increased our market share relative to last year, capturing 42% of total buy and sell volume, despite market 
conditions. 

  Selected as designated broker 64 times, which represents a 48% increase year over year. 
Pioneer in overnight offerings, which continue to be a successful means for asset managers to raise capital:  
Led another $500 million of overnight offerings as a combination of split-share and single-trust unit funds. 
 
Launched the first ever Canadian at-the-market (ATM) issuance programs for two listed investment funds. 
 
  Awarded Deal of the Year in rate structures by mtn-i, a global news, data and analytics platform covering the 

private debt market. 

  Awarded Most Impressive Financial Institutional Structured MTN Issuer  by  GlobalCapital,  a  global  service 
provider of capital markets information whose methodology relies on the views of market participants. 

34

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Business Segment Analysis | Financial Markets 

Strategic Priorities 

2019 Achievements and Highlights 

Awarded the Greenwich Quality Leader in Canadian FX Service by Greenwich Associates, a leading global provider 
of data, analytics and insights to the financial services industry. Overall, National Bank Financial leads in the ability 
to understand client needs and deliver intensive sales coverage. 

Involved in significant mandates including: 
  Acted  as  financial  advisor  to  the  Special  Committee  of  Dream  Global  REIT  in  relation  to  its  acquisition  by 

Blackstone Group Inc. 

  Advisor to Pipestone Oil Corp. in their $650 million reverse takeover of Blackbird Energy Inc. to form Pipestone 
Energy Corp. (TSX-V: PIPE) as well as underwriting and currently acting as administrative agent, lead arranger 
and sole bookrunner with respect to Pipestone’s $198.5 million senior secured credit facilities. 
Financial  advisor  to  Atlantic  Gold  Corp.  on  its  sale  to  Australian-based  St  Barbara  Limited,  for  a  total 
consideration of $802 million. Also acted as sole lead arranger and bookrunner for Atlantic Gold Corporation’s 
$150  million  revolving  credit  facility  and  underwrote  the  change  of  control  provision  for St Barbara  in 
conjunction with the transaction. 

 

  Exclusive financial advisor to Osisko Gold Royalties Ltd. on: (i) its acquisition of Barkervillle Gold Mines Ltd. in 
a  transaction  valued  at  $338  million  and  (ii)  its  $175  million  asset  swap  transaction  with  Orion  Resource 
Partners. Also acted as sole lead arranger and bookrunner for Osisko’s $400 million revolving credit facility. 
  Sole  financial  advisor  to  Bombardier  Inc.  on  a  US$300  million  disposal  of  the  Q  Series  program  and  the 

underlying aftermarket business to Longview Aviation Capital Corp. 

  Sole  financial  advisor  to  Bombardier  Inc.  on  a  US$800  million  disposal  of  its  Business  Aircraft  Training 

activities, including a US$155 million monetization of royalties that were payable by CAE Inc. 

  Sole financial advisor to Transat A.T. Inc. in its review of strategic alternatives and $720 million disposal to Air 

Canada.

 

Joint  bookrunner  on  Lightspeed  POS  Inc.’s    $276  million  initial  public  offering  and  $217  million  follow-on 
offering. 

  Co-bookrunner on $144 million equity offering for Park Lawn Corporation. 
  Co-lead on Northland Power Inc.’s $347 million subscription receipt equity financing. 
  Co-financial  advisor  for  Crescent  Point  Energy  Corp.  on  the  sale  of  certain  oil  &  gas  assets  in  southeast 

Saskatchewan and Manitoba for $219 million. 

  Co-bookrunner and co-lead on an equity financing and administrative agent for Allied Energy Corp. as well co-
lead arranger and joint bookrunner on a $75 million senior secured credit facility to finance the acquisition of 
certain assets from Crescent Point Energy Corp. 

Expand our client coverage to increase 
our presence in advisory services 

Leverage leadership in equity 
distribution to increase lead and co-
lead positions 

Priorities and Outlook for 2020 

Continue to expand our activities in areas of expertise with a constant focus on Canadian clients.
Continue to be a strategic partner for our clients. 
Increase market share among corporations for all fee-based products. 
Continue to automate processes, use artificial intelligence, and increase data-sharing across the Financial Markets segment.





 Maintain tight cost control and an industry-leading efficiency ratio.

National Bank of Canada

35

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual ReportManagement’s Discussion and Analysis 
Business Segment Analysis | Financial Markets 

Segment Results – Financial Markets 

Year ended October 31 
(taxable equivalent basis)(1) 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Global markets 
Equities 
Fixed-income 
Commodities and foreign exchange 

Corporate and investment banking 
Gains on investments and other 
Total revenues on a taxable equivalent basis 
Non-interest expenses 
Contribution on a taxable equivalent basis 
Provisions for credit losses 
Income before income taxes on a taxable equivalent basis 
Income taxes on a taxable equivalent basis 
NNeett  iinnccoommee  
Average assets 
Average loans and acceptances  
Net impaired loans(3) 
Average deposits 
Efficiency ratio on a taxable equivalent basis(1) 

22001199

2018(2) 

%%  cchhaannggee

662244
228899
112266
11,,003399
771199
((88))
11,,775500
774433
11,,000077
3300
997777
226600
771177
111122,,449933
1166,,557755
2233
3300,,331111

576 
267 
130 
973 
750 
20 
1,743 
697 
1,046 
4 
1,042 
278 
764 
100,721 
15,116 
− 
23,510 

4422..55 %%

40.0  %

88  
88  
((33))
77  
((44))

−−  
77  
((44))

((66))
((66))
((66))
1122  
1100  

2299  

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 

See the Financial Reporting Method section on pages 14 and 15 for additional information on non-GAAP financial measures.  
For the year ended October 31, 2018, certain amounts have been reclassified. 
Net impaired loans are presented net of allowances for credit losses on Stage 3 loan amounts drawn. 

TToottaall  RReevveennuueess  bbyy  CCaatteeggoorryy  
Year ended October 31 
(taxable equivalent basis)(1) 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

973  

11,,003399    

750  

771199    

20  

  2018 

    22001199  

((88))

Global markets - Equities 
Global markets - Fixed-income 
Global markets - Commodities and foreign exchange 
Corporate and investment banking 
Gains on investments and other 

TToottaall  RReevveennuueess  bbyy  GGeeooggrraapphhiicc  DDiissttrriibbuuttiioonn  
Year ended October 31, 2019 
(taxable equivalent basis)(1)  

41 %

22 %

37 %

Province of Quebec (2018: 31%) 
Other provinces (2018: 42%) 
Outside of Canada (2018: 27%)  

(1) 

See the Financial Reporting Method section on pages 14 and 15 for additional information on non-GAAP financial measures. 

36

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Business Segment Analysis | Financial Markets 

Financial Results 

In the Financial Markets segment, net income totalled $717 million in fiscal 2019, down 6% year over 
year. The segment’s fiscal 2019 total revenues on a taxable equivalent basis(1) amounted to $1,750 
million, up $7 million from $1,743 million in fiscal 2018. Revenues from the Global Markets category 
posted  year-over-year  growth  of  7%,  with  revenues  from  equity  securities  and  from  fixed-income 
securities each rising  8%, tempered by a 3% decrease in revenues from commodities and foreign 
exchange activities. As for corporate and investment banking revenues, they were down 4% year over 
year, mainly due to a slowdown in capital markets activity as well as to a decrease in merger and 
acquisition  activities  in  fiscal  2019.  This  decrease  was  partly  offset  by  higher  banking  services 
revenues in fiscal 2019. Lastly, higher gains on  investments and  other revenues were recorded in 
fiscal 2018. 

For the year ended October 31, 2019, the segment’s non-interest expenses rose 7% year over year, 
mainly due to increases in compensation and employee benefits, in expenses related to technological 
investments, in business development expenses, and in operations support charges. The segment’s 
fiscal 2019 efficiency ratio on a taxable equivalent basis(1) was 42.5% in fiscal 2019 versus 40.0% in 
2018. 

Financial Markets recorded $30 million in provisions for credit losses during fiscal 2019 compared to 
$4 million in fiscal 2018, an increase that stems mainly from credit loss provisions on impaired loans. 

(1) 

See  the  Financial  Reporting  Method  section  on  pages  14  and  15  for  additional  information  on  non-GAAP  financial 
measures. 

TToottaall  RReevveennuueess  bbyy  CCaatteeggoorryy 
Year ended October 31, 2019 
(taxable equivalent basis)(1) 

41 % 

59 % 

Global markets (2018: 56%) 
Corporate and investment banking (2018: 43%) 
Gains on investments and other (2018: 1%) 

OOppeerraattiinngg  RReessuullttss  
Year ended October 31 
(taxable equivalent basis)(1) 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

1,743  

11,,775500    

764  

697  

774433    

    771177    

 2018 

  22001199  

Total revenues 
Non-interest expenses 
Net income 

National Bank of Canada

37

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual ReportManagement’s Discussion and Analysis 

Business Segment Analysis | U.S. Specialty Finance and International 

The Bank complements its Canadian growth with a targeted, disciplined international strategy that aims for superior returns. The Bank is currently focused on 
specialty finance in the U.S. through Credigy and on personal and commercial banking in Cambodia through ABA Bank. The Bank also holds minority positions 
in financial groups operating in French-speaking Africa and Africa-Asia. The Bank has a moratorium in effect on any new significant investments in emerging 
markets. During fiscal 2019, the U.S. Specialty Finance and International (USSF&I) segment generated 10% of the Bank’s consolidated total revenue and 12% 
of its net income. 

UU..SS..  SSppeecciiaallttyy  FFiinnaannccee  ––  CCrreeddiiggyy  

Founded in 2001, Credigy is a specialty finance company with flexibility across its capital structure to acquire or finance a diverse range of assets. Based in 
Atlanta, Georgia, Credigy is primarily active in performing assets covering a broad range of asset classes, mostly consumer receivables in the U.S. market. The 
Bank holds an 80% ownership interest in Credigy. 

EEccoonnoommiicc  aanndd  MMaarrkkeett  RReevviieeww  

Despite  global  uncertainty  negatively  affecting  exports  and  business  investment,  the  U.S.  economy  posted  steady  growth  in  2019  thanks  to  resilience  in 
consumption. Consumer confidence in the U.S. is flying high given a still-hot labour market that is fuelling household income. Lower interest rates and low 
leverage suggest upside potential for household credit in the U.S. 

The economic environment in 2019 and the outlook for 2020 are discussed in more detail in the Economic Review and Outlook section on page 20. 

KKeeyy  SSuucccceessss  FFaaccttoorrss  

Ability to seize opportunities in rapidly changing market conditions through a disciplined yet adaptable investment strategy.
Diversification across several classes of performing assets.



 Market credibility achieved through over 300 transactions life-to-date, representing over US$13 billion in total investments supported by the Bank. 



Rigorous pricing approach strengthened by continuous refinement of modelling and analytics capabilities and deep expertise in specific asset classes.
Proven expertise in the successful management and servicing of consumer assets.

OObbjjeeccttiivveess  aanndd  SSttrraatteeggiieess  

Credigy aims to provide customized solutions for the consumer receivables market in pursuit of the best risk-adjusted returns and a return on assets (ROA) of at 
least 2.5%. 

Strategic Priorities 

2019 Achievements and Highlights 

Sustain deal flow by being a partner 
of choice for bank and non-bank 
institutions facing complex 
challenges and strategic changes 

  Maintained average assets of approximately $7 billion. 

Maintain a diversified mix of 
performing assets 

  Performing assets accounted for 96% of assets. 
  Continued diversification in asset classes focusing on both secured and unsecured consumer assets. 

Achieve best risk-adjusted returns 

  Credit model monitoring and refinement helped Credigy focus on the best risk/reward investments. 
  Maintained a disciplined approach to ensure a risk-return balance and an ROA of at least 2.5%.  

PPrriioorriittiieess  aanndd  OOuuttllooookk  ffoorr  22002200  

Deliver growth by leveraging relationships with current and prospective partners. 
Leverage committed funding agreements to support asset growth.
Capitalize on changing market conditions that have potential for large investment opportunities. 




 Maintain focus on asset diversification and a balanced risk/return investment profile. 

38

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Business Segment Analysis | U.S. Specialty Finance and International 

IInntteerrnnaattiioonnaall  ––  AABBAA  BBaannkk  

Established in 1996, ABA Bank provides financial services to individuals and businesses in Cambodia. It is the third largest and fastest-growing commercial 
bank in the country with an ROE of approximately 30%. It offers a full spectrum of financial services to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) as well as 
to individuals through 70  branches, 541 ATM and cash deposit machines, and advanced online banking and mobile banking platforms. For the fifth and sixth 
straight years respectively, ABA Bank has been selected as the Best Bank in Cambodia by Global Finance and Euromoney magazines. In fiscal 2019, the Bank 
became 100% shareholder of ABA Bank after acquiring the remaining 10% ownership interest.  

EEccoonnoommiicc  aanndd  MMaarrkkeett  RReevviieeww  

The Cambodian economy is rapidly growing, with GDP growth nearing 7% in the past decade. It is a well-diversified economy, largely based on the U.S. dollar. 
The strong GDP growth is supported by its membership in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) trade association and an expansionary fiscal 
policy. The Cambodian market is highly underbanked, with approximately 8% of the population having a credit account and 40% having a deposit account. 
Mobile technology and social media are widely adopted and used in the country, and over 70% of the population of 16.5 million is under 35 years of age. 

KKeeyy  SSuucccceessss  FFaaccttoorrss  










Loan strategy targeting MSMEs with simple products.
Strong risk management driving high credit quality.
Ability to fund loan growth through the deposit strategy.
Deposit strategy leveraging state-of-the art technology, leading to an expanding transactional banking ecosystem.
Experienced leadership team, and educated workforce supported by robust training programs. 
Governance structure based on high Canadian standards while providing local management with the autonomy to pursue strategic priorities and business
objectives. 
Leveraging National Bank’s reputation as a world-class financial institution.

OObbjjeeccttiivveess  aanndd  SSttrraatteeggiieess  

ABA Bank wishes to pursue omnichannel banking strategy focused on being the lending partner of choice to MSMEs while increasing market penetration in 
deposits and transactional services for retail and business clients. 

Strategic Priorities 

2019 Achievements and Highlights 

Grow market share in MSME lending 
while contributing to the economy 
and maintaining credit quality 

  Achieved 52% growth in loan volumes, with 100% of loans collateralized. 
  At 0.7% in 2019, non-performing loans below market average. 
 
 

Increased market penetration with the opening of 7 new branches for a total of 70 branches country-wide. 
Improved from fourth to third largest bank in Cambodia by assets. 

Sustain growth in deposits and 
transactional services 

  Deposits increased 82% compared to 2018. 
  Continued to make enhancements to self-banking capabilities, including the first full-scale mobile banking 

application in Cambodia. 

  ABA’s  online  payment  gateway  (PayWay)  was  optimized,  adding  new  functions  that  facilitate  merchant 

operations and that transform the Cambodian eCommerce landscape. 

  Self-banking transactions made up 94% of all transactions, compared to 90% in 2018. 

Retain international recognition of 
ABA Bank’s progress 

  Global Finance magazine named ABA Bank as the “Best Bank in Cambodia” for the fifth consecutive year. 
  Euromoney magazine named ABA Bank as the “Best Bank in Cambodia” for the sixth consecutive year. 

PPrriioorriittiieess  aanndd  OOuuttllooookk  ffoorr  22002200  

LLeevveerraaggee  ppoossiittiivvee  eeccoonnoommiicc  oouuttllooookk  bbyy  ssttaayyiinngg  ffooccuusseedd  oonn  ccoorree  ttaarrggeett  mmaarrkkeettss  




Continue to offer simple and efficient banking solutions aligned with domestic needs in the underbanked Cambodian market.
Focus on MSME clients to achieve loan growth.
Increase deposit base by offering convenience to retail customers through an advanced digital and self-banking infrastructure and an expanding branch
network.

EEnnssuurree  ssoolliidd  ffoouunnddaattiioonn  ffoorr  ssuussttaaiinnaabbllee  lloonngg--tteerrmm  ggrroowwtthh  
 Open 10 to 12 additional branches in 2020 to extend its reach in Cambodia and gain direct access to a larger pool of MSME customers and retail deposits.


Focus on sound business processes as well as on strong governance and risk management.

National Bank of Canada

39

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual ReportManagement’s Discussion and Analysis 
Business Segment Analysis | U.S. Specialty Finance and International 

SSeeggmmeenntt  RReessuullttss  ––  UUSSSSFF&&II  

Year ended October 31 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

TToottaall  rreevveennuueess  
Credigy  
ABA Bank 
International 

NNoonn--iinntteerreesstt  eexxppeennsseess  
Credigy 
ABA Bank 
International 

Contribution 
PPrroovviissiioonnss  ffoorr  ccrreeddiitt  lloosssseess  
Credigy 
ABA Bank 

Income before income taxes  
Income taxes 
NNeett  iinnccoommee  
Non-controlling interests 
Net income attributable to the Bank's shareholders 
Average assets 
Average loans and receivables 
Net impaired loans – Stage 3(1) 
Purchased or originated credit-impaired (POCI) loans 
Average deposits 
Efficiency ratio 

22001199  

2018 

%%  cchhaannggee  

440022
330033
1100
771155

115522
113311
22
228855
443300

6688
1122
8800
335500
7711
227799
4400
223399
1100,,998855
88,,990077
1155
11,,116666
33,,447744

446 
192 
1 
639 

156 
93 
2 
251 
388 

81 
13 
94 
294 
72 
222 
38 
184 
9,270 
7,853 
15 
1,576 
1,907 

3399..99 %%

39.3  %

((1100))   
5588  

1122  

((33))   
4411  

1144  
1111  

((1166))   
((88))   
((1155))   
1199  
((11))   
2266  
55  
3300  
1199  
1133  
−−  
((2266))   
8822  

(1) 

Net impaired loans – Stage 3 exclude POCI loans and are presented net of allowances for credit losses on Stage 3 loan amounts drawn.  

AAvveerraaggee  LLooaannss  ––  CCrreeddiiggyy  
Year ended October 31 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

6,058

66,,117799

AAvveerraaggee  LLooaannss  aanndd  DDeeppoossiittss  ––  AABBAA  BBaannkk  
Year ended October 31 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

33,,447744

22,,772288

1,907

1,790

    2018 

    22001199  

 2018 

     22001199  

Loans  
POCI loans 

Loans  
Deposits  

40

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Business Segment Analysis | U.S. Specialty Finance and International 

FFiinnaanncciiaall  RReessuullttss  

In the USSF&I segment, the fiscal 2019 net income totalled $279 million compared to $222 million in 
fiscal 2018. The segment’s fiscal 2019 total revenues amounted to $715 million versus $639 million 
in  fiscal  2018,  representing  year-over-year  growth  of  12%  that  came  mainly  from  a  $111  million 
increase in the revenues of the ABA Bank subsidiary owing to sustained growth in loan and deposit 
volumes. At the Credigy subsidiary, revenues were down $44 million as a result of changes in the loan 
portfolio mix.  

The segment’s non-interest expenses stood at $285 million in fiscal 2019, a $34 million year-over-
year increase essentially attributable to all of ABA Bank’s non-interest expenses and related to its 
growing banking network. At the Credigy subsidiary, non-interest expenses were down slightly year 
over year. 

In fiscal 2019, the segment recorded $80 million in provisions for credit losses, consisting essentially 
of Credigy’s credit loss provisions. 

CCrreeddiiggyy  
For fiscal 2019, Credigy's net income totalled $144 million, down $10 million from fiscal 2018. The 
subsidiary’s  total  revenues  amounted  to  $402  million  compared  to  $446  million  in  fiscal  2018,  a 
$44 million or 10% decrease attributable mainly to lower net interest income arising from changes in 
the loan portfolio mix. Credigy’s fiscal 2019 non-interest expenses stood at $152 million versus $156 
million in fiscal 2018, with the decrease being attributable to the variable compensation associated 
with the subsidiary’s revenues. Credigy recorded $68 million in provisions for credit losses for fiscal 
2019 versus $81 million in fiscal 2018, a decrease that is attributable to credit loss provisions on 
impaired  and  non-impaired  loans  following  repayments  and  maturities  of  certain  loan  portfolios, 
whereas credit loss provisions on POCI loans were up compared to fiscal 2018.   

AABBAA  BBaannkk  
For fiscal 2019, ABA Bank’s net income totalled $128 million, up $59 million or 86% from fiscal 2018. 
The subsidiary’s total revenues amounted to $303 million compared to $192 million in fiscal 2018, a 
$111 million or 58% increase driven mainly by higher net interest income owing to sustained growth 
in loan volumes and deposit volumes, which rose 52% and 82%, respectively. The subsidiary’s fiscal 
2019  non-interest  expenses  stood  at  $131  million  compared  to  $93  million  in  fiscal  2018.  This 
increase  was  attributable  to  the  expansion  of  the  subsidiary’s  banking  network,  including 
compensation  and  employee  benefits  as  well  as  occupancy  expenses.  For  fiscal  2019,  ABA  Bank 
recorded $12 million in provisions for credit losses, stable when compared to $13 million in fiscal 
2018.  

TToottaall  RReevveennuueess  bbyy  CCaatteeggoorryy 
Year ended October 31, 2019 

1%

43%

56%

Credigy (2018: 70%) 
ABA Bank (2018: 30%) 
International (2018: negligible) 

OOppeerraattiinngg RReessuullttss  
Year ended October 31 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

639

771155

251

222

228855

227799

Total
revenues

Non-
interest
expenses

Net
income

Total
revenues

Non-
interest
expenses

Net
income

     2018 

      22001199  

Credigy 
ABA Bank and International 

National Bank of Canada

41

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual ReportManagement’s Discussion and Analysis 

BBuussiinneessss  SSeeggmmeenntt  AAnnaallyyssiiss  ||  OOtthheerr  

The Other heading reports on Treasury operations, liquidity management, Bank funding, asset and liability management, certain non-recurring items, and the 
unallocated portion of corporate units. Corporate units include Information Technology, Risk Management, Employee Experience, Operations, and Finance. These 
units provide advice and guidance throughout the Bank and to its business segments in addition to expertise and support in their respective fields. 

SSeeggmmeenntt  RReessuullttss  ––  OOtthheerr  

Year ended October 31 
(taxable equivalent basis)(1) 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Net interest income on a taxable equivalent basis 
Non-interest income on a taxable equivalent basis 
Total revenues on a taxable equivalent basis 
Non-interest expenses 
Contribution on a taxable equivalent basis 
Provisions for credit losses 
Income before income taxes on a taxable equivalent basis 
Income taxes (recovery) on a taxable equivalent basis 
NNeett  lloossss  
Non-controlling interests 
Net loss attributable to the Bank’s shareholders 

Specified items after income taxes(1) 
NNeett  lloossss  eexxcclluuddiinngg  ssppeecciiffiieedd  iitteemmss(1)  
Average assets 

22001199  

2018(2) 

((119922))
229944
110022
339900
((228888))
−−
((228888))
((8888))
((220000))
2266
((222266))

66
((119944))
4433,,666677

(189)  
220
31
275
(244)  
−
(244)  
(74)  
(170)  
49
(219)  

−
(170)  

42,925

(1) 
(2) 

See the Financial Reporting Method section on pages 14 and 15 for additional information on non-GAAP financial measures.  
For the year ended October 31, 2018, certain amounts have been reclassified. 

FFiinnaanncciiaall  RReessuullttss  

For the Other heading of segment results, there was a net loss of $200 million in fiscal 2019 compared to a net loss of $170 million in fiscal 2018. This change 
in net loss was essentially due to a lower contribution from treasury activities during fiscal 2019 arising in part from the impact of market volatility on the Bank’s 
asset/liability management portfolio during the first quarter of 2019. The specified items recorded for fiscal 2019 had a $6 million unfavourable impact on the 
net income recorded in the Other heading. Net loss excluding specified items stood at $194 million for fiscal 2019 compared to a $170 million net loss in fiscal 
2018.  

Total revenues on a taxable equivalent basis were up, mainly due to the specified items recorded for fiscal 2019, which include a $79 million gain on disposal 
of Fiera Capital shares, a $50 million gain on disposal of premises and equipment, and a $33 million loss arising from the fair value remeasurement of the Bank’s 
investment in NSIA. The fiscal 2019 non-interest expenses were also up as a result of the following specified items: $57 million in impairment losses on premises 
and equipment and on intangible assets, $45 million in provisions for onerous contracts, an $11 million charge related to Maple, and $10 million in severance 
pay. 

42

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 

QQuuaarrtteerrllyy  FFiinnaanncciiaall  IInnffoorrmmaattiioonn  

Several trends and factors have an impact on the Bank’s quarterly net income, revenues, non-interest expenses and provisions for credit losses. For example, 
the second quarter of the fiscal year has fewer days than the other quarters, which can result in reductions to total revenues and certain non-interest expense 
items. The following table presents a summary of results for the past eight quarters. Furthermore, a summary of results for the past 12 quarters is provided in 
Table 1 on pages 102 and 103. 

QQuuaarrtteerrllyy  RReessuullttss  SSuummmmaarryy(1)  

(millions of Canadian dollars) 

SSttaatteemmeenntt  ooff  iinnccoommee  ddaattaa  
Net interest income 
Non-interest income 
Total revenues 
Provisions for credit losses 
Non-interest expenses 
Income taxes 
NNeett  iinnccoommee  

QQ44  

QQ33  

QQ22  

993366
997799
11,,991155
8899
11,,009955
112277
660044

885555
11,,009933
11,,994488
8866
11,,115544
110000
660088

994422
882288
11,,777700
8844
11,,002266
110022
555588

22001199  
QQ11  

886633
993366
11,,779999
8888
11,,002266
113333
555522

Q4 

Q3 

Q2 

826 
988 
1,814   
73   
1,036 
139 
566   

837 
955 
1,792   
76   
1,011 
136 
569   

885
869
1,754
91
992
124
547

2018   
Q1  

834 
972 
1,806 
87 
1,024 
145 
550 

(1) 

For additional information about the 2019 fourth quarter results, visit the Bank’s website at nbc.ca or the SEDAR website at sedar.com to consult the Bank’s Press Release for the Fourth Quarter 
of 2019, published on December 4, 2019. 

The above analysis of the past eight quarters reflects the sustained performance of all the business segments and helps readers identify the items that have 
favourably or unfavourably affected results. Thanks to net income growth across most of the Bank’s main business segments, the net income for each quarter of 
2019 was up year over year. However, the year-over-year growth in net income for the first and second quarters of 2019 was tempered somewhat by a slowdown 
in the activities of the Financial Markets segment.  

Net interest income posted year-over-year growth in every quarter of 2019. These increases were mainly driven by growth in personal and commercial loan and 
deposit volumes, net interest income growth at Wealth Management (notably due to loan and deposit growth) and to growth in the net interest income of the 
ABA Bank subsidiary. The year-over-year increases in net interest income for the first and third quarters of 2019 were tempered somewhat by lower net interest 
income in the Financial Markets segment. Furthermore, the Credigy subsidiary posted less net interest income in the first, second, and third quarters of 2019 as 
a result of changes in the loan portfolio mix. 

The non-interest income results for the first, second and fourth quarters of 2019 were down year over year. Non-interest income in the first and second quarters 
of 2019 was down year over year given a slowdown in the activities of the Financial Markets segment. The 2019 third-quarter non-interest income included a 
revision to actuarial reserves and the following specified items: a $79 million gain on disposal of Fiera Capital shares, a $50 million gain on disposal of premises 
and equipment, and a $33 million loss arising from the remeasurement at fair value of the Bank’s investment in NSIA.  

The provisions for credit losses posted year-over-year increases in almost every quarter of 2019. Higher credit loss provisions were recorded in the third and 
fourth  quarters  of  2019  as  a  result  of  provisions  on  personal  loans,  credit  card  receivables,  and  Financial  Markets  loans.  For  the  second  quarter  of  2019, 
provisions for credit losses saw a year-over-year decrease, mainly due to provisions recorded on loans at the Credigy subsidiary. 

The  non-interest  expense  results  for  every  quarter  of  2019  were  up  year  over  year.  Explaining  these  increases  were  compensation  and  employee  benefits 
(including the variable compensation associated with revenue growth in the business segments), technology investment expenses made as part of the Bank’s 
transformation plan and for business development activities, and expenses related to the expansion of ABA Bank’s banking network. In addition, non-interest 
expenses for the third quarter of 2019 included $57 million in impairment losses on premises and equipment and on intangible assets, $45 million in provisions 
for onerous contracts, and $10 million in severance pay. For the fourth quarter of 2019, non-interest expenses included an $11 million charge related to Maple. 

The effective income tax rate for every quarter of 2019 was down year over year. These changes in effective tax rate between the quarters of 2019 and 2018 were 
created mainly by a realization of capital gains taxed at a lower rate, by higher income from lower tax rate jurisdictions, and by lower tax-exempt dividend income. 
In addition, the U.S. tax reform had an impact on the effective tax rate of the first quarter of 2019 compared to the first quarter of 2018. 

National Bank of Canada

43

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual ReportManagement’s Discussion and Analysis 

AAnnaallyyssiiss  ooff  tthhee  CCoonnssoolliiddaatteedd  BBaallaannccee  SShheeeett  

CCoonnssoolliiddaatteedd  BBaallaannccee  SShheeeett  SSuummmmaarryy  

As at October 31   
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

AAsssseettss  
Cash and deposits with financial institutions 
Securities 
Securities purchased under reverse repurchase agreements and securities borrowed 
Loans and acceptances, net of allowances 
Other 

LLiiaabbiilliittiieess  aanndd  eeqquuiittyy  
Deposits 
Other 
Subordinated debt 
Equity attributable to the Bank’s shareholders 
Non-controlling interests 

22001199  

2018 

%%  cchhaannggee   

1133,,669988 
8822,,222266 
1177,,772233 
115533,,225511 
1144,,556600 
228811,,445588 

118899,,556666 
7755,,998833 
777733 
1144,,777788 
335588 
228811,,445588 

12,756
69,783
18,159
146,082
15,691
262,471

170,830
76,539
747
13,976
379
262,471

77  
1188  
((22))   
55  
((77))   
77  

1111  
((11))   
33  
66  
((66))   
77  

As at October 31, 2019, the Bank’s total assets amounted to $281.5 billion compared to $262.5 billion at year-end 2018, a $19.0 billion or 7% increase owing 
mainly to a $12.4 billion increase in securities and a $7.2 billion increase in loans and acceptances, net of allowances. 

CCaasshh  aanndd  DDeeppoossiittss  WWiitthh  FFiinnaanncciiaall  IInnssttiittuuttiioonnss  
At $13.7 billion as at October 31, 2019, cash and deposits with financial institutions rose $0.9 billion or 7% since the same date last year, mainly due to deposits 
with financial institutions made by the ABA Bank subsidiary. The Bank’s liquidity and funding risk management practices are described on pages 82 to 89 of this 
MD&A. 

SSeeccuurriittiieess  
As at October 31, 2019, securities totalled $82.2 billion (29% of total assets). During fiscal 2019, they grew $12.4 billion from $69.8 billion as at October 31, 
2018. This growth was partly due to a $6.0 billion increase in securities at fair value through profit or loss attributable to a $13.5 billion increase in equity 
securities and to a $1.3 billion increase in securities issued or guaranteed by U.S. Treasury, other U.S. agencies and other foreign governments. These increases 
were tempered by a $4.2 billion decrease in securities issued or guaranteed by the Canadian government and a $3.9 billion decrease in securities issued or 
guaranteed by Canadian provincial and municipal governments. Securities other than those measured at fair value through profit or loss were up $6.4 billion, 
essentially  due  to  a  $2.1  billion  increase  in  securities  issued  or  guaranteed  by  the  Canadian  government,  to  a  $3.5  billion  increase  in  securities  issued  or 
guaranteed by U.S. Treasury, other U.S. agencies, and other foreign governments, and to a $0.8 billion increase in other debt securities. Securities purchased 
under reverse repurchase agreements and securities borrowed totalled $17.7 billion as at October 31, 2019, a 2% decrease since year-end 2018 that is mainly 
related to activities in the Financial Markets segment. The Bank’s market risk management policies are described on pages 75 to 81 of this MD&A. 

LLooaannss  aanndd  AAcccceeppttaanncceess  
As at October 31, 2019, loans and acceptances, net of allowances for credit losses, totalled $153.3 billion, up $7.2 billion or 5% from October 31, 2018, and 
accounted for 54% of total assets. 

Residential mortgage loans outstanding totalled $57.2 billion as at October 31, 2019, rising $3.5 billion or 7% since year-end 2018. This growth was driven by 
sustained demand for mortgage credit as well as by business growth at the ABA Bank subsidiary. Personal loans totalled $36.9 billion at year-end 2019, declining 
$0.5 billion from $37.4 billion at year-end 2018 due in part to changes in the loan portfolio mix of the Credigy subsidiary. As for credit card receivables, they 
totalled $2.3 billion, remaining stable when compared to October 31, 2018. 

At $57.5 billion as at October 31, 2019, loans and acceptances to businesses and government increased $4.1 billion or 8% since October 31, 2018. This increase 
was driven mainly by Commercial Banking and Credigy subsidiary activities. 

Table 9 (page 109) shows gross loans and acceptances by borrower category as at October 31, 2019. At $74.4 billion, residential mortgages (including home 
equity lines of credit) have posted strong growth since 2015 and account for 48% of total loans and acceptances. This growth in residential mortgages was 
driven by sustained demand for mortgage credit as well as by growth in business activity at the ABA Bank subsidiary. As for retail loans, they totalled $15.7 billion 
as at October 31, 2019. With respect to commercial loans, there was year-over-year growth in the agriculture category, utilities category, and manufacturing 
category. As at October 31, 2019, certain categories posted year-over-year decreases, notably the mining category, the finance and insurance category, and the 
government category. Furthermore, the Credigy subsidiary’s POCI  loans were down from October 31, 2018 due to maturities and repayments in certain portfolios. 

44

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Analysis of the Consolidated Balance Sheet 

IImmppaaiirreedd  LLooaannss  
Impaired loans include loans classified in Stage 3 of the expected credit loss model and the purchased or originated credit-impaired (POCI) loans of the Credigy 
subsidiary. 

As at October 31, 2019, gross impaired loans excluding POCI loans stood at $684 million compared to $630 million as at October 31, 2018 (Table 10, page 109). 
Net impaired loans excluding POCI loans totalled $450 million as at October 31, 2019 compared to $404 million as at October 31, 2018, a $46 million increase 
related to net impaired loans in the Commercial Banking portfolio and the Financial Markets segment. Gross POCI loans stood at $1,166 million as at October 
31, 2019, down from $1,576 million as at October 31, 2018 as a result of maturities and repayments of certain portfolios. 

A detailed description of the Bank’s credit risk management practices is provided on pages 67 to 74 of this MD&A as well as in  Note 7 to the consolidated 
financial statements. 

OOtthheerr  AAsssseettss 
As at October 31, 2019, other assets totalled $14.6 billion compared to $15.7 billion as at October 31, 2018. This $1.1 billion decrease in other assets can 
essentially be traced to a $0.5 billion decrease in derivative financial instruments and to a $0.4 billion decrease in other assets. Investments in associates and 
joint ventures declined due to the disposal of a portion of the Bank’s interest in Fiera Capital as well as to a conclusion to stop recognizing the equity stake in 
NSIA as an investment in an associate following a loss of significant influence. Premises and equipment also decreased due to the sale of the land and head 
office building occupied by the Bank. 

DDeeppoossiitt  LLiiaabbiilliittyy  
At $189.6 billion as at October 31, 2019, deposits increased by $18.8 billion or 11% since year-end 2018. At $60.1 billion, personal deposits, as presented in 
Table 12 (page 110), increased $4.4 billion since October 31, 2018 and accounted for 32% of all deposits. This increase was driven by Bank initiatives designed 
to grow this type of deposit as well as by business growth at the ABA Bank subsidiary. A summary of total personal savings is provided in the table below. 

As shown in Table 12, business and government deposits totalled $125.3 billion, up $15.0 billion from $110.3 billion at year-end 2018. This increase came from 
business  growth  at  Commercial  Banking  and  from  treasury  funding  activities,  including  $3.5  billion  in  deposits  subject  to  bank  recapitalization  (bail-in) 
conversion  regulations,  from  corporate  financing  activities  and  from  issuances  of  structured  notes.  Deposits  from  deposit-taking  institutions  were  down 
$0.6 billion from the same date last year. 

As at October 31, 2019, total personal savings amounted to $233.0 billion, up from $211.5 billion as at October 31, 2018. Overall, off-balance-sheet personal 
savings stood at $172.9 billion as at October 31, 2019 compared to $155.8 billion a year ago given net inflows in brokerage operations and stronger stock 
market performance. 

TToottaall  PPeerrssoonnaall  SSaavviinnggss  
As at October 31 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

BBaallaannccee  sshheeeett  
Deposits 

OOffff--bbaallaannccee--sshheeeett  
Brokerage 
Mutual funds 
Other 

TToottaall  

22001199  

2018 

%%  cchhaannggee  

6600,,006655 

55,688

113355,,776688 
3366,,881199 
331199 
117722,,990066 
223322,,997711 

123,458
31,874
440
155,772
211,460

88  

1100  
1166  
((2288))  
1111  
1100  

OOtthheerr  LLiiaabbiilliittiieess  
As  at  October  31,  2019,  other  liabilities  stood  at  $76.0  billion,  declining  $0.5  billion  since  October  31,  2018,  essentially  due  to  a  $5.0  billion  decrease  in 
obligations related to securities sold short, partly offset by a $1.9 billion increase in obligations related to securities sold under repurchase agreements and 
securities loaned, a $0.9 billion increase in derivative financial instruments, and a $1.2 billion increase in liabilities related to transferred receivables. 

SSuubboorrddiinnaatteedd  DDeebbtt  aanndd  OOtthheerr  CCoonnttrraaccttuuaall  OObblliiggaattiioonnss  
Subordinated debt has remained relatively stable since October 31, 2018. The contractual obligations are presented in detail in Note 29 to the consolidated 
financial statements. 

National Bank of Canada

45

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual ReportManagement’s Discussion and Analysis 
Analysis of the Consolidated Balance Sheet 

EEqquuiittyy 
As at October 31, 2019, equity attributable to the Bank’s shareholders was $14.8 billion, rising $0.8 billion from $14.0 billion since October 31, 2018. This 
increase came from net income net of dividends, tempered by remeasurements of pension plans and other post-employment benefit plans, by a net change in 
gains (losses) on cash flow hedges, and by repurchases of common shares for cancellation, factors which themselves were partly offset by issuances of common 
shares under the Stock Option Plan and the impact of shares purchased or sold for trading. The Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity on page 118 of 
this Annual Report present the items of equity. In addition, an analysis of the Bank’s regulatory capital is presented in the Capital Management section of this 
MD&A. 

AAccqquuiissiittiioonn  

On September 27, 2019, the Bank acquired the entire remaining non-controlling interest in the Cambodian subsidiary Advanced Bank of Asia Limited (ABA Bank) 
for $84 million. Following this transaction, ABA Bank became a wholly owned subsidiary of the Bank.  

EExxppoossuurreess  ttoo  CCeerrttaaiinn  AAccttiivviittiieess  

In 2012, the Financial Stability Board (FSB) formed a working group, the Enhanced Disclosure Task Force (EDTF), that was mandated to develop principles for 
enhancing  the  risk  disclosures  of  major  banks.  The  EDTF  published  a  report  containing  32 recommendations.  The  risk  disclosures required  by  the  EDTF  are 
provided in this Annual Report and in the documents entitled Supplementary Regulatory Capital and Pillar 3 Disclosure and Supplementary Financial Information, 
which are available on the Bank’s website at nbc.ca. In addition, on page 12 of this Annual Report is a table of contents that readers can use to locate information 
relative to the 32 recommendations. 

The  FSB  recommendations  seek  to  enhance  the  transparency  and  measurement  of  certain  exposures,  in  particular  structured  entities,  subprime  and  Alt-A 
exposures,  collateralized  debt  obligations,  residential  and  commercial  mortgage-backed  securities,  and  leveraged  financing  structures.  The  Bank  does  not 
market any specific mortgage financing program to subprime or Alt-A clients. Alt-A loans are granted to borrowers who cannot provide standard proof of income. 
The Bank’s Alt-A loan volume was $402 million as at October 31, 2019 ($425 million as at October 31, 2018). The Bank does not have any significant direct 
position  in  residential  and  commercial  mortgage-backed  securities  that  are  not  insured  by  the  CMHC.  Credit  derivative  positions  are  presented  in  the 
Supplementary Regulatory Capital and Pillar 3 Disclosure report, which is available on the Bank’s website at nbc.ca. 

Leveraged  finance  is  commonly  employed  to  achieve  a  specific  objective,  for  example,  to  make  an  acquisition,  complete  a  buy-out  or  repurchase  shares. 
Leveraged finance risk exposure takes the form of both funded and unfunded commitments. As at October 31, 2019, total commitments for this type of loan 
stood at $3,559 million ($2,967 million as at October 31, 2018). Details about other exposures are provided in the table concerning structured entities in Note 27 
to the consolidated financial statements. 

46

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Analysis of the Consolidated Balance Sheet 

RReellaatteedd  PPaarrttyy  TTrraannssaaccttiioonnss  

In the normal course of business, the Bank provides various banking services and enters into contractual agreements and other transactions with associates, 
joint ventures, directors, key officers and other related parties. These agreements and transactions are entered into under conditions similar to those offered to 
non-related third parties. 

In  accordance  with  the Bank Act  (Canada),  the  aggregate  of  loans  granted  to  key  officers  of  the  Bank,  excluding  mortgage  loans  granted  on  their  principal 
residence, cannot exceed twice the officer’s annual salary. 

Loans to eligible key officers are granted under the same conditions as those granted to any other employee of the Bank. The main conditions are as follows: 

the employee must meet the same credit requirements as a client; 


 mortgage loans are offered at the preferential employee rate; 





home equity lines of credit bear interest at Canadian prime less 0.5%, but never lower than Canadian prime divided by two; 
personal loans bear interest at a risk-based regular client rate;
credit card advances bear interest at a prescribed fixed rate in accordance with Bank policy;
personal lines of credit bear interest at Canadian prime less 0.5%, but never lower than Canadian prime divided by two.

The Bank also offers a deferred stock unit plan to directors who are not Bank employees. For additional information, see Note 22 to the consolidated financial 
statements. Additional information on related parties is presented in Notes 9, 27 and 28 to the consolidated financial statements.  

IInnccoommee  TTaaxxeess  

In June 2019, the Bank was reassessed by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) for additional income tax and interest of approximately $150 million (including 
estimated provincial tax and interest) in respect of certain Canadian dividends received by the Bank during 2014.   

In prior fiscal years, the Bank was reassessed for additional income tax and interest of approximately $220 million (including provincial tax and interest) in 
respect of certain Canadian dividends received by the Bank during the 2013 and 2012 taxation years. 

The transactions to which the above-mentioned reassessments relate are similar to those prospectively addressed by income tax legislation enacted as a result 
of the 2015 Canadian federal budget. 

The  CRA  may  issue  reassessments  to  the  Bank  for  taxation  years  subsequent  to  2014  in  regard  to  activities  similar  to  those  that  were  the  subject  of  the 
above-mentioned reassessments. The Bank remains confident that its tax position was appropriate and intends to vigorously defend its position. As a result, no 
amount has been recognized in the consolidated financial statements as at October 31, 2019. 

EEvveenntt  AAfftteerr  tthhee  CCoonnssoolliiddaatteedd  BBaallaannccee  SShheeeett  

On November 19, 2019, the Bank paid 7.7 million euros to the German tax authorities in relation to the Maple case. This payment was made upon a final tax 
claim of the tax authorities against the insolvency administrator that was approved by the Maple GmbH creditor assembly. As at October 31, 2019, a provision 
of $11 million was recorded to reflect this adjusting event after the Consolidated Balance Sheet date. For additional information, see Note 26 to the consolidated 
financial statements. 

National Bank of Canada

47

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual ReportManagement’s Discussion and Analysis 

SSeeccuurriittiizzaattiioonn  aanndd  OOffff--BBaallaannccee--SShheeeett  AArrrraannggeemmeennttss  

In the normal course of business, the Bank is party to various financial arrangements that, under IFRS, are not required to be recorded on the Consolidated 
Balance Sheet or are recorded under amounts other than their notional or contractual values. These arrangements include, among others, transactions with 
structured entities, derivative financial instruments, the issuance of guarantees, credit instruments, and financial assets received as collateral. 

SSttrruuccttuurreedd  EEnnttiittiieess  

The Bank uses structured entities, among other means, to diversify its funding sources and to offer services to clients, in particular to help them securitize their 
financial assets or provide them with investment opportunities. Under IFRS, a structured entity must be consolidated if the Bank controls the entity. Note 1 to 
the  consolidated  financial  statements  describes  the  accounting  policy  and  criteria  used  for  consolidating  structured  entities.  Additional  information  on 
consolidated and non-consolidated structured entities is provided in Note 27 to the consolidated financial statements. 

SSeeccuurriittiizzaattiioonn  ooff  tthhee  BBaannkk’’ss  FFiinnaanncciiaall  AAsssseettss  
Mortgage Loans 
The Bank participates in two Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) securitization programs: the Mortgage-Backed Securities Program under the 
National Housing Act (Canada) (NHA) and the Canada Mortgage Bond (CMB) Program. Under the first program, the Bank issues NHA securities backed by insured 
residential  mortgage  loans  and,  under  the  second,  the  Bank  sells  NHA  securities  to  Canada  Housing  Trust  (CHT),  which  finances  the  purchase  through  the 
issuance  of  mortgage  bonds  insured  by  CMHC.  Moreover,  these  mortgage  bonds  feature  an  interest  rate  swap  agreement  under  which  a  CMHC-certified 
counterparty pays CHT the interest due to investors and receives the interest on the NHA securities. As at October 31, 2019, the outstanding amount of NHA 
securities issued by the Bank and sold to CHT was $19.2 billion. The mortgage loans sold consist of fixed- or variable-rate residential loans that are insured 
against  potential  losses  by  a  loan  insurer.  In  accordance  with  the  NHA-MBS  Program,  the  Bank  advances  the  funds  required  to  cover  late  payments  and,  if 
necessary, obtains reimbursement from the insurer that insured the loan. The NHA-MBS and CMB programs do not use liquidity guarantee arrangements. The 
Bank uses these securitization programs mainly to diversify its funding sources. In accordance with IFRS, because the Bank retains substantially all of the risks 
and rewards of ownership of the mortgage loans transferred to CHT, the derecognition criteria are not met. Therefore, the insured mortgage loans securitized 
under the CMB Program continue to be recognized in Loans on the Bank’s Consolidated Balance Sheet, and the liabilities for the considerations received from 
the transfer are recognized in Liabilities related to transferred receivables on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. For additional information, see Note 8 to the 
consolidated financial statements. 

Credit Card Receivables 
In April 2015, the Bank set up Canadian Credit Card Trust II (CCCT II) to continue its program of securitizing credit card receivables on a revolving basis. The Bank 
uses  this  entity  for  capital  management  and  funding  purposes.  The  Bank  acts  as  the  servicer  of  the  receivables  sold  and  maintains  the  client  relationship. 
Furthermore, it administers the securitization program and ensures that all related procedures are stringently followed and that investors are paid according to 
the provisions of the program. 

As at October 31, 2019, the credit card receivables portfolio held by CCCT II (net of the Bank Certificate held by the Bank) represented an amount outstanding of 
$1.6  billion.  CCCT  II  issued  investors’  certificates,  $0.9  billion  of  which  is  held  by  third  parties  and  $0.7  billion  is  held  by  the  Bank.  New  receivables  are 
periodically sold to the structure on a revolving basis to replace the receivables reimbursed by clients. 

The different series of certificates are rated by the Fitch and DBRS rating agencies. From this portfolio of sold receivables, the Bank retains the excess spread, 
i.e., the residual net interest income after all the expenses related to this structure have been paid, and thus provides first-loss protection. Furthermore, second-
loss protection for issued series is provided by certificates subordinated to the senior notes, representing 5.8% of the total amount of the series issued. The 
Bank controls CCCT II and thus consolidates it. 

SSeeccuurriittiizzaattiioonn  ooff  TThhiirrdd--PPaarrttyy  FFiinnaanncciiaall  AAsssseettss  
The Bank administers multi-seller conduits that purchase financial assets from clients and finance those purchases by issuing commercial paper backed by the 
acquired assets. Clients use these multi-seller conduits to diversify their funding sources and reduce borrowing costs while continuing to service the financial 
assets and providing some amount of first-loss protection. Notes issued by the conduits and held by third parties provide additional credit loss protection. The 
Bank acts as a financial agent and provides administrative and transaction structuring services to these conduits. The Bank provides backstop liquidity and 
credit enhancement facilities under the commercial paper program. These facilities are presented and described in Notes 26 and 27 to the consolidated financial 
statements.  The  Bank  has  concluded  derivative  financial  instrument  contracts  with  these  conduits,  the  fair  value  of  which  is  presented  on  the  Bank’s 
Consolidated Balance Sheet. The Bank is not required to consolidate these conduits, as it does not control them. 

48

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Securitization and Off-Balance-Sheet Arrangements 

DDeerriivvaattiivvee  FFiinnaanncciiaall  IInnssttrruummeennttss  

The Bank uses various types of derivative financial instruments to meet its clients’ needs, generate trading activity revenues and manage its exposure to interest 
rate, foreign exchange and credit risk as well as other market risks. All derivative financial instruments are accounted for at fair value on the Consolidated Balance 
Sheet.  Transactions  in  derivative  financial  instruments  are  expressed  as  notional  amounts.  These  amounts  are  not  presented  as  assets  or  liabilities  on  the 
Consolidated Balance Sheet. They represent the face amount of the contract to which a rate or price is applied to determine the amount of cash flows to be 
exchanged. Notes 1 and 16 to the consolidated financial statements provide additional information on the types of derivative financial instruments used by the 
Bank and their accounting basis. 

GGuuaarraanntteeeess  

In the normal course of business, the Bank enters into various guarantee contracts. The principal types of guarantees are letters of guarantee, backstop liquidity 
and credit enhancement facilities, certain securities lending activities, and certain indemnification agreements. Note 26 to the consolidated financial statements 
provides detailed information on these guarantees. 

CCrreeddiitt  IInnssttrruummeennttss  

In the normal course of business, the Bank enters into various off-balance-sheet credit commitments. The credit instruments used to meet the financing needs 
of its clients represent the maximum amount of additional credit that the Bank could be required to extend if the commitments were fully drawn. For additional 
information on these off-balance-sheet credit instruments and other items, see Note 26 to the consolidated financial statements. 

FFiinnaanncciiaall  AAsssseettss  RReecceeiivveedd  aass  CCoollllaatteerraall  

In  the  normal  course  of  business,  the  Bank  receives  financial  assets  as  collateral  as  a  result  of  transactions  involving  securities  purchased  under  reverse 
repurchase agreements, securities borrowing and lending agreements, and derivative financial instrument transactions. For additional information regarding 
financial assets received as collateral, see Note 26 to the consolidated financial statements. 

National Bank of Canada

49

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual ReportManagement’s Discussion and Analysis 

CCaappiittaall  MMaannaaggeemmeenntt  

Capital management has a dual role of ensuring a competitive return to the Bank’s shareholders while maintaining a solid capital foundation that covers risks 
inherent to the Bank’s business, supports its business segments, and protects its clients. 

CCaappiittaall  MMaannaaggeemmeenntt  FFrraammeewwoorrkk  

The Bank’s capital management policy defines guiding principles as well as the roles and responsibilities of its internal capital adequacy assessment process. 
This process aims to determine the capital that the Bank needs to pursue its business activities and accommodate unexpected losses arising from extremely 
adverse economic and operational conditions. The Bank has implemented a rigorous internal capital adequacy assessment process that comprises the following 
procedures: 

conducting an overall risk assessment;


 measuring significant risks and the capital requirements related to the Bank’s financial budget for the next fiscal year and current and prospective risk

profiles; 
integrating stress tests across the organization and executing sensitivity  analyses  to determine the capital buffer above minimum regulatory levels (for
additional information on enterprise-wide stress testing, see the Risk Management section of this MD&A); 
aggregating capital and monitoring the reasonableness of internal capital compared with regulatory capital; 
comparing projected internal capital with regulatory capital levels, internal operating targets, and competing banks;
attesting to the adequacy of the Bank’s capital levels.







Assessing capital adequacy is an integral part of capital planning and strategy. The Bank sets internal capital ratio targets that include a discretionary cushion 
in excess of the regulatory requirements, which provides a solid financial structure and sufficient capital to meet management’s business needs in accordance 
with its risk appetite, along with competitive returns to shareholders, under both normal market conditions and a range of severe but plausible stress testing 
scenarios. The internal capital adequacy assessment process is a key tool in establishing the Bank’s capital strategy and is subject to quarterly reviews and 
periodic amendments. 

Risk-adjusted return on capital (RAROC) and shareholder value added (SVA), which are obtained from an assessment of required economic capital, are calculated 
quarterly for each of the Bank’s business segments. The results are then used to guide management in allocating capital among the different business segments. 

SSttrruuccttuurree  aanndd  GGoovveerrnnaannccee  
Along with its partners from Risk Management, Global Funding and Treasury Group, and Finance, the Capital Management team is responsible for maintaining 
integrated control methods and processes so that an overall assessment of capital adequacy may be performed. 

The Board oversees the structure and development of the Bank’s capital management policy and ensures that the Bank maintains sufficient capital in accordance 
with regulatory requirements and in consideration of market conditions. The Board delegates certain responsibilities to the Risk Management Committee (RMC), 
which in turn recommends capital management policies and oversees their application. However, the Board, on the recommendation of the RMC, assumes the 
following responsibilities: 








reviewing and approving the capital management policy;
reviewing and approving the Bank’s risk appetite, including the main capital and risk targets and the corresponding limits;
reviewing and approving the capital plan and strategy on an annual basis, including the Bank’s internal capital adequacy assessment process; 
reviewing and approving the implementation of significant measures respecting capital, including contingency measures;
reviewing significant capital disclosures, including Basel capital adequacy ratios;
ensuring the appropriateness of the regulatory capital adequacy assessment.

The  Office  of  the  President  is  responsible  for  defining  the  Bank’s  strategy  and  plays  a  key  role  in  guiding  measures  and  decisions  regarding  capital.  The 
Enterprise-Wide  Risk  Management  Committee  oversees  capital  management,  which  consists  of  reviewing  the  capital  plan  and  strategy  and  implementing 
significant measures respecting capital, including contingency measures, and making recommendations with respect to these measures. 

50

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Capital Management 

BBaasseell  AAccccoorrdd  aanndd  RReegguullaattoorryy  EEnnvviirroonnmmeenntt  

BBaasseell  AAccccoorrdd  
The  Basel  Accord  proposes  a  range  of  approaches  of  varying  complexity,  the  choice  of  which  determines  the  sensitivity  of  capital  to  risks.  A  less  complex 
approach,  such  as  the  Standardized  Approach,  uses  regulatory  weightings,  while  a  more  complex  approach  uses  the  Bank’s  internal  estimates  of  risk 
components to establish risk-weighted assets and calculate regulatory capital. 

As required under Basel, risk-weighted assets (RWA) are calculated for each credit risk, market risk, and operational risk. The Bank uses the Advanced Internal 
Rating-Based (AIRB) Approach for  credit risk to determine minimum regulatory capital requirements for a majority of its portfolios. The credit risk of certain 
portfolios considered to be less significant is weighted according to the Basel Standardized Approach. The simple risk-weighted method is used to calculate the 
charge related to banking book equity securities. This method requires proactive management of the capital allocated to portfolios with banking book equity 
securities  since,  beyond  a  certain  investment  threshold,  the  cost  of  regulatory  capital  becomes  prohibitive.  As  for  operational  risk,  the  Bank  uses  the 
Standardized Approach. Market risk-weighted assets are primarily determined using the Internal Model-Based Approach, but the Standardized Approach is used 
to assess interest-rate specific risk.  

With respect to the risk related to securitization operations, the capital treatment depends on the type of underlying exposures and on the information available 
about the exposures. The Bank must use the Securitization Internal Rating-Based Approach (SEC-IRBA) if it is able to apply an approved internal ratings-based 
model and has sufficient information to calculate the capital requirements for all underlying exposures in the securitization pool. Under this approach, the RWA 
is derived from a combination of supervisory inputs and inputs specific to the securitization exposure such as the implicit capital charge related to the underlying 
exposures, the credit enhancement level, the effective maturity, the number of exposures, and the weighted average loss given default (LGD).   

If the Bank cannot use the SEC-IRBA, it must use the Securitization External Rating-Based Approach (SEC-ERBA) for the securitization exposures that are externally 
rated. This approach assigns risk weights to exposures using external ratings. The Bank uses the ratings assigned by Moody’s, Standard & Poor’s (S&P), Fitch, 
DBRS or a combination of these ratings. The Bank uses the Internal Assessment Approach (IAA) for unrated securitization exposures relating to the asset-backed 
commercial  paper  conduits  it  sponsors.  If  the  Bank  cannot  apply  the  SEC-ERBA  or  the  IAA,  it  must  use  the  supervisory  formula  under  the  Securitization 
Standardized Approach (SEC-SA). Under this approach, RWA is derived from inputs specific to the securitization exposure such as the implicit capital charge 
related to the underlying exposures calculated under the standardized credit risk approach as well as credit enhancement and delinquency levels.  

If none of the above approaches can be used, the securitization exposure must be assigned a risk weight of 1,250%. The Bank can apply a reduced capital charge 
for  securitization  exposures  that  meet  the  criteria  of  the  Simple,  Transparent  and  Comparable  (STC)  framework.  To  mitigate  the  impact  of  the  revised 
securitization framework, which took effect on November 1, 2018, OSFI has permitted grandfathering of the current capital treatment for one year through a 
negative  adjustment  to  RWA  that  eliminates  the  initial  increase  in  risk  weights.  OSFI  has  also  provided  transitional  arrangements  for  all  securitization 
transactions completed by December 31, 2018 for a maximum of two years. 

Capital  ratios  are  calculated  by  dividing  capital  by  risk-weighted  assets.  Credit,  market,  and  operational  risks  are  factored  into  the  risk-weighted  assets 
calculation for regulatory purposes. Basel rules apply at the consolidated level of the Bank. Assets of non-consolidated entities for regulatory purposes are 
therefore excluded from the risk-weighted assets calculation. 

The definition adopted by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (BCBS) distinguishes between three types of capital. Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) capital 
consists of common shareholders’ equity less goodwill, intangible assets, and other capital deductions. The Additional Tier 1 instruments comprise eligible non-
cumulative preferred shares and the eligible amount of innovative instruments. The sum of CET1 and Additional Tier 1 capital forms what is known as Tier 1 
capital. Tier 2 capital consists of eligible subordinated debt and certain allowances for credit losses. Total regulatory capital is the sum of Tier 1 and Tier 2 capital.  

National Bank of Canada

51

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual ReportManagement’s Discussion and Analysis 
Capital Management 

OSFI is responsible for applying the Basel Accord in Canada. As required under the Basel Accord, OSFI requires that regulatory capital instruments other than 
common equity have a non-viability contingent capital (NVCC) clause to ensure that investors bear losses before taxpayers should the government determine 
that it is in the public interest to rescue a non-viable financial institution. Instruments issued before January 1, 2013 that would be Basel III compliant if it were 
not for the absence of the NVCC clause are grandfathered and will be phased out over a period of ten years. The Bank expects to phase out all of its non-NVCC 
instruments without resorting to any regulatory event redemption. Furthermore, in the regulations of the Canadian Deposit Insurance Corporation (CDIC) Act and 
the Bank Act (Canada), the Government of Canada has provided detailed information on conversion, issuance, and compensation regimes for bail-in instruments 
issued by D-SIBs. Pursuant to the CDIC Act, in circumstances where OSFI has determined that the Bank has ceased, or is about to cease, to be viable, the Governor 
in Council may, upon a Minister of Finance recommendation indicating that he or she believes that it is in the public interest to do so, grant an order directing 
CDIC to convert all or a portion of certain shares and liabilities of the Bank into common shares of the Bank (a “Bail-In Conversion”). The Bail-in Regulations 
governing  the  conversion  and  issuance  of  bail-in  instruments  came  into  force  on  September  23,  2018,  and  those  governing  compensation  for  holders  of 
converted instruments came into force on March 27, 2018. Any shares and liabilities issued before the date that the Bail-In Regulations come into force are not 
subject to a Bail-In Conversion, unless, in the case of a liability, the terms of such liability are, on or after that day, amended to increase its principal amount or 
to extend its term to maturity, and the liability, as amended, meets the requirements to be subject to a Bail-In Conversion. The Bail-in Regulations did not have 
a material impact on the Bank’s funding plan. 

The Bank and all other major Canadian banks have to maintain minimum capital ratios established by OSFI: a CET1 capital ratio of at least 10.0%, a Tier 1 capital 
ratio of at least 11.5%, and a Total capital ratio of at least 13.5%. All of these ratios are to include a capital conservation buffer of 2.5%, a 1% surcharge applicable 
solely to D-SIBs, and a 2.0% domestic stability buffer. The domestic stability buffer, which can vary from 0% to 2.5% of risk-weighted assets, consists exclusively 
of CET1 capital. A D-SIB that fails to meet this buffer requirement will not be subject to automatic constraints to reduce capital distributions but will have to 
provide a remediation plan to OSFI. The banks also have to meet the capital floor that sets the regulatory capital level according to the Basel II standardized 
approach. If the capital requirement under Basel III is less than 75% of the capital requirements as calculated under Basel II, the difference is added to risk-
weighted assets. OSFI requires Canadian banks to meet a Basel III leverage ratio of at least 3.0%. The leverage ratio is a measure independent of risk that is 
calculated by dividing the amount of Tier 1 capital  by total exposure. Total exposure is defined as the sum of on-balance-sheet assets (including derivative 
exposures and securities financing transaction exposures) and off-balance-sheet items. The assets deducted from Tier 1 capital are also deducted from total 
exposure.  

OSFI’s Total Loss Absorbing Capacity (TLAC)  guideline,  which  applies  to  all  D-SIBs  under  the  federal  government’s  bail-in  regulations,  came  into  effect  on 
September 23, 2018. The purpose of the TLAC guideline is to ensure that a D-SIB has sufficient loss-absorbing capacity to support its recapitalization in the 
unlikely event it becomes non-viable. OSFI is requiring D-SIBs to maintain a minimum risk-based TLAC ratio of 23.50% (including the domestic stability buffer) 
of risk-weighted assets and a minimum TLAC leverage ratio of 6.75% by November 1, 2021. During the quarter ended April 30, 2019, the Bank started to issue 
qualifying bail-in debt and expects its TLAC ratios to improve through the normal refinancing of its maturing unsecured term debt. The Bank does not anticipate 
any challenges in meeting these TLAC requirements. 

RReeqquuiirreemmeennttss  ––  RReegguullaattoorryy  RRaattiiooss  UUnnddeerr  BBaasseell  IIIIII  

CCaappiittaall  
ccoonnsseerrvvaattiioonn  
bbuuffffeerr  

MMiinniimmuumm  
sseett  bbyy  
  BBCCBBSS  

DD--SSIIBB  
ssuurrcchhaarrggee  

MMiinniimmuumm  
sseett  bbyy  
OOSSFFII((11))  

MMiinniimmuumm  

DDoommeessttiicc  
ssttaabbiilliittyy  
bbuuffffeerr(2)    

AAss  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199   
MMiinniimmuumm  sseett  bbyy  
OOSSFFII((11)),,  iinncclluuddiinngg  
tthhee  bbuuffffeerr  

CCaappiittaall  rraattiiooss  

CET1 
Tier 1 
Total 

LLeevveerraaggee  rraattiioo  

44..55  %% 
66..00  %% 
88..00  %% 
33..00  %% 

22..55  %% 
22..55  %% 
22..55  %% 
nn..aa..   

77..00 %%
88..55 %%
1100..55 %%

nn..aa..  

11..00 %%
11..00 %%
11..00 %%

nn..aa..  

88..00 %% 
99..55 %% 
1111..55 %% 
33..00 %% 

22..00 %%
22..00 %%
22..00 %%

nn..aa..  

1100..00 %%
1111..55 %%
1133..55 %%

33..00 %%

n.a.  Not applicable 
(1) 
(2) 

The capital ratios include the capital conservation buffer and the D-SIB surcharge. 
For D-SIBs, the buffer level varies between 0% and 2.5% of risk-weighted assets and is set by OSFI.  

The Bank ensures that its capital levels are always above the minimum capital requirements set by OSFI, including the buffer. By maintaining a strong capital 
structure, the Bank can cover the risks inherent to its business activities, support its business segments, and protect its clients. 

Other disclosure requirements pursuant to Pillar 3 of the Basel Accord and a set of recommendations defined by the EDTF are presented in the Supplementary 
Regulatory Capital and Pillar 3 Disclosure  report  published  quarterly  and  available  on  the  Bank’s  website  at  nbc.ca.  Furthermore,  a  complete  list  of  capital 
instruments and their main features is also available on the Bank’s website.  

52

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
  
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Capital Management 

RReegguullaattoorryy  CCoonntteexxtt  
The  Bank  closely  monitors  regulatory  developments  and  participates  actively  in  various  consultative  processes.  Presented  below  are  brief  descriptions  of 
ongoing  regulatory  projects.  As  had  been  planned,  the  Bank  applied  several  new  regulatory  requirements  in  2019,  in  particular  the  SA-CCR  (Standardized 
Approach for Measuring Counterparty Credit Risk) rules and the revised securitization framework (described above).  

Basel III Reform 
In December 2017, the Group of Central Bank Governors and Heads of Supervision (GHOS), which oversees the BCBS, endorsed the outstanding Basel III post-
crisis regulatory reforms. The purpose of  the  approved reforms, set  out in Basel III: Finalising Post-Crisis Reforms, is to reduce excessive  variability in risk-
weighted assets and improve comparability and transparency among bank capital ratios. The reforms must be implemented starting in 2022 and include the 
following: revisions to the standardized approaches for calculating credit risk and operational risk; a constraint on using the internal ratings-based approach for 
calculating credit risk; and revisions to the leverage ratio, the CVA, and the calculation of the output capital floor. In February 2018, the BCBS issued Pillar 3 
Disclosure Requirements – Updated Framework,  a  consultative  document  that  presents  the  additional  disclosure  requirements  that  will  apply  when  the 
outstanding Basel III regulatory reforms take effect as of 2022, and these requirements will form a single Pillar 3 disclosure framework. In January 2019, the 
BCBS  also  issued  a  newly  revised  version  of  the  document  entitled  Revisions to the Minimum Capital Requirements for Market Risk  (initially  issued  in 
March 2018), which will have to be applied as of 2022. 

In July 2018, OSFI issued a discussion paper, Implementation of the Final Basel III Reforms in Canada, which sets out OSFI’s preliminary views on the scope and 
timelines for implementing the final Basel III reforms in Canada. 

Other Projects 
On April 10, 2019, OSFI released the final version of its B-2 guideline, Large Exposure Limits for Domestic Systemically Important Banks. Large exposure limits 
help to restrict the maximum loss that an institution could face in the event of a sudden failure of a counterparty. This new version of the B-2 guideline tightens 
the  exposure  limits  applicable  to  Global  Systemically  Important  Banks  (G-SIBs)  and  to  other  Canadian  D-SIBs.  It  recognizes  eligible  credit  risk  mitigation 
techniques by measuring exposures on a net basis rather than a gross basis, and it reduces the eligible capital base by replacing Total capital with Tier 1 capital. 
All D-SIBs are expected to comply with the B-2 guideline for the period beginning November 1, 2019. 

On May 30, 2019, OSFI released a revised version of its B-12 guideline, Interest Rate Risk Management. This guideline outlines OSFI’s expectations regarding 
the  management  of  Interest  Rate  Risk  in  the  Banking  Book  (IRRBB)  in  areas  such  as  governance  processes,  risk  measurement,  development  of  stress  test 
scenarios as well as key behavioural and modelling assumptions. D-SIBs will have to apply this revised guideline as of January 1, 2020. 

On June 26, 2019, the BCBS finalized revisions to the leverage ratio’s treatment of client-cleared derivatives and to disclosure requirements in order to address 
concerns  about  balance  sheet  window-dressing.  The  treatment  of  client-cleared  derivatives  was  revised  to  align  the  leverage  ratio  measurement  with  the 
measurement determined by the SA-CCR rules as used for risk-based capital requirements. The revision to Revisions to Leverage Ratio Disclosure Requirements 
aims to alleviate leverage ratio balance sheet window-dressing concerns. Internationally active banks will be required to disclose their leverage ratios based on 
quarter-end values and on an average of daily values for securities financing transactions. These revisions will come into effect on January 1, 2022.

CCaappiittaall  MMaannaaggeemmeenntt  iinn  22001199  

MMaannaaggeemmeenntt  AAccttiivviittiieess  
During the fiscal year ended October 31, 2019, the Bank repurchased 4,547,200 common shares for $281 million, which reduced Common share capital by 
$40 million and Retained earnings by $241 million. The repurchase of 2,347,200 common shares was part of the normal course issuer bid to repurchase for 
cancellation program that the Bank had launched on June 6, 2018 and that ended on June 5, 2019; under this program, the Bank repurchased a total of 6,847,200 
common shares. On June 10, 2019, the Bank began a new normal course issuer bid to repurchase for cancellation up to 6,000,000 common shares over the 12-
month period ending no later than June 9, 2020. During the year ended October 31, 2019, the Bank repurchased 2,200,000 common shares under the new 
program.  

As at October 31, 2019, the Bank had 334,172,411 issued and outstanding common shares compared to 335,070,642 a year earlier as well as 98,000,000 
issued and outstanding preferred shares, unchanged from October 31, 2018. For additional information on capital instruments, see Notes 15, 18 and 19 to the 
consolidated financial statements. 

DDiivviiddeennddss  
The  Bank’s  strategy  for  common  share  dividends  is  to  aim  for  a  dividend  payout  ratio  of  between  40%  and  50%  of  net  income  attributable  to  common 
shareholders excluding specified items, taking into account such factors as financial position, cash needs, regulatory requirements and any other factor deemed 
relevant by the Board. 

National Bank of Canada

53

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual ReportManagement’s Discussion and Analysis 
Capital Management 

For fiscal 2019, the Bank declared $892 million in dividends to common shareholders, which represents 42% of net income attributable to common shareholders 
(2018: 41%). The declared dividends are within the target payout range. The Bank has taken a prudent approach to managing regulatory capital and remains 
confident in its ability to increase earnings going forward. 

SShhaarreess  aanndd  SSttoocckk  OOppttiioonnss  

First preferred shares 

Series 30 
Series 32 
Series 34 
Series 36 
Series 38 
Series 40 
Series 42 

Common shares 
Stock options 

NNuummbbeerr  ooff  sshhaarreess  

$$  mmiilllliioonn  

AAss  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199   

1144,,000000,,000000 
1122,,000000,,000000 
1166,,000000,,000000 
1166,,000000,,000000 
1166,,000000,,000000 
1122,,000000,,000000 
1122,,000000,,000000 
9988,,000000,,000000 
333344,,117722,,441111 
1122,,110033,,662266 

335500  
330000  
440000  
440000  
440000  
330000  
330000  
22,,445500  
22,,994499  

As at November 29, 2019, there were 334,201,015 common shares and 12,076,868 stock options outstanding. NVCC provisions require the conversion of capital 
instruments into a variable number of common shares should OSFI deem a bank to be non-viable or should the government publicly announce that a bank has 
accepted or agreed to accept an injection of capital. If an NVCC trigger event were to occur, all of the Bank’s preferred shares and medium-term notes maturing 
on February 1, 2028, which are NVCC capital instruments, would be converted into common shares of the Bank according to an automatic conversion formula at 
a conversion price corresponding to the greater of the following amounts: (i) a $5.00 contractual floor price; or (ii) the market price of the Bank’s common shares 
on the date of the trigger event (10-day weighted average price). Based on a $5.00 floor price and including an estimate for accrued dividends and interest, these 
NVCC capital instruments would be converted into a maximum of 723 million Bank common shares, which would have a 68.4% dilutive effect based on the 
number of Bank common shares outstanding as at October 31, 2019. 

RReegguullaattoorryy  CCaappiittaall  RRaattiiooss  
As at October 31, 2019, the Bank’s CET1, Tier 1 and Total capital ratios were, respectively, 11.7%, 15.0% and 16.1%, i.e., above the regulatory requirements, 
compared to ratios of, respectively, 11.7%, 15.5% and 16.8% as at October 31, 2018. The CET1 capital ratio remained stable. Net income net of dividends, and 
common share issuances under the Stock Option Plan offset the application of the SA-CCR rules for measuring counterparty credit risk, growth in risk-weighted 
assets, the common share repurchases during the year ended October 31, 2019, and remeasurements of pension plans and other post-employment benefit 
plans. The decreases in the Tier 1 capital ratio and the Total capital ratio were essentially due to growth in risk-weighted assets. As at October 31, 2019, the 
leverage ratio was 4.0%, stable compared to October 31, 2018. The growth in Tier 1 capital was offset by growth in total leverage exposure. 

RReegguullaattoorryy  CCaappiittaall  aanndd  RRaattiiooss  UUnnddeerr  BBaasseell  IIIIII 

As at October 31 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

CCaappiittaall  
CET1 
Tier 1 
Total 

RRiisskk--wweeiigghhtteedd  aasssseettss  

CET1 capital 
Tier 1 capital 
Total capital 

TToottaall  eexxppoossuurree  

CCaappiittaall  rraattiiooss  

CET1 
Tier 1 
Total 

LLeevveerraaggee  rraattiioo  

54

22001199  

2018 

99,,669922 
1122,,449922 
1133,,336666 

8833,,003399 
8833,,003399 
8833,,003399 

330088,,990022 

1111..77  %% 
1155..00  %% 
1166..11  %% 

44..00  %% 

8,608
11,410
12,352

73,654
73,670
73,685

284,337

11.7 % 
15.5 % 
16.8 % 

4.0 % 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Capital Management 

MMoovveemmeenntt  iinn  RReegguullaattoorryy  CCaappiittaall 

Year ended October 31 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

CCoommmmoonn  EEqquuiittyy  TTiieerr  11  ((CCEETT11))  ccaappiittaall    
Balance at beginning 

Issuance of common shares (including Stock Option Plan)  
Impact of shares purchased or sold for trading 
Repurchase of common shares  
Other contributed surplus  
Dividends on preferred and common shares  

Net income attributable to the Bank’s shareholders  
Common share capital issued by subsidiaries and held by third parties 
Removal of own credit spread net of income taxes  
Impact of adopting IFRS 15 on November 1, 2018 (IFRS 9 on November 1, 2017) 
Other 

Movements in accumulated other comprehensive income  

    Translation adjustments  
    Debt securities at fair value through other comprehensive income 
    Impact of adopting IFRS 9 on November 1, 2017 
    Other  

Change in goodwill and intangible assets (net of related tax liability) 
Other, including regulatory adjustments and transitional arrangements  
    Change in defined benefit pension plan asset (net of related tax liability) 
    Change in amount exceeding 15% threshold  

  Deferred tax assets  
  Significant investment in common shares of financial institutions  

    Change in other regulatory adjustments(1) 
Balance at end 

AAddddiittiioonnaall  TTiieerr  11  ccaappiittaall    
Balance at beginning  

New Tier 1 eligible capital issuances  
Redeemed capital 
Change in non-qualifying Additional Tier 1 subject to phase-out 
Other, including regulatory adjustments and transitional arrangements  

Balance at end  

TToottaall  TTiieerr  11  ccaappiittaall  

TTiieerr  22  ccaappiittaall    
Balance at beginning 

New Tier 2 eligible capital issuances  
Redeemed capital 
Change in non-qualifying Tier 2 subject to phase-out 
Tier 2 instruments issued by subsidiaries and held by third parties 
Change in certain allowances for credit losses 
Other, including regulatory adjustments and transitional arrangements  

Balance at end 

TToottaall  rreegguullaattoorryy  ccaappiittaall    

(1) 

Represents the change in investments in the Bank’s own CET1. 

22001199    

2018 

88,,660088
110077
4455
((228811))
99
((11,,000088))

22,,225566
((1133))
((88))
((44))
((116633))

((66))
11

33

113344

33

−−
−−
99
99,,669922

22,,880022
−−
−−
−−
((22))
22,,880000

7,856 
113 
(10) 
(467) 
14 
(934) 

2,145 
5 
(24) 
(122) 
97 

27 
(16) 
(10) 
1 

(57) 

(7) 

− 
− 
(3) 
8,608 

2,601 
600 
(400) 
− 
1 
2,802 

1122,,449922

11,410 

994422
−−
−−
−−
((44))
1100
((7744))
887744

204 
750 
− 
− 
2 
(14) 
− 
942 

1133,,336666

12,352 

National Bank of Canada

55

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report   
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Capital Management 

RRWWAA  bbyy  KKeeyy  RRiisskk  DDrriivveerrss  
CET1 RWA amounted to $83.0 billion as at October 31, 2019, rising $9.4 billion from $73.7 billion as at October 31, 2018. This increase resulted mainly from 
organic growth in RWA and from a change in the method used to measure counterparty credit risk (SA-CCR). The changes in the Bank’s risk-weighted assets by 
risk type are presented in the following table. 

RRiisskk--WWeeiigghhtteedd  AAsssseettss  MMoovveemmeenntt  bbyy  KKeeyy  DDrriivveerrss

Quarter ended 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

CCrreeddiitt  rriisskk  ––  RRiisskk--wweeiigghhtteedd  aasssseettss  aatt  bbeeggiinnnniinngg  

Book size 
Book quality 
Model updates   
Methodology and policy   
Acquisitions and disposals   
Foreign exchange movements  

CCrreeddiitt  rriisskk  ––  RRiisskk--wweeiigghhtteedd  aasssseettss  aatt  eenndd  

MMaarrkkeett  rriisskk  ––  RRiisskk--wweeiigghhtteedd  aasssseettss  aatt  bbeeggiinnnniinngg  
Movement in risk levels(1) 
Model updates 
Methodology and policy 
Acquisitions and disposals 

MMaarrkkeett  rriisskk  ––  RRiisskk--wweeiigghhtteedd  aasssseettss  aatt  eenndd  

OOppeerraattiioonnaall  rriisskk  ––  RRiisskk--wweeiigghhtteedd  aasssseettss  aatt  bbeeggiinnnniinngg  

Movement in risk levels 
Acquisitions and disposals 

OOppeerraattiioonnaall  rriisskk  ––  RRiisskk--wweeiigghhtteedd  aasssseettss  aatt  eenndd  

RRiisskk--wweeiigghhtteedd  aasssseettss  aatt  eenndd    

OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199  

JJuullyy  3311,,  22001199    

AApprriill  3300,,  22001199    

JJaannuuaarryy  3311,,  22001199   October 31, 2018   

TToottaall  

TToottaall  

TToottaall  

TToottaall  

Total 

6655,,669933
11,,997799
1111
((4466))
((336622))
−−
((2211))
6677,,225544

33,,997722
330044
−−
−−
−−
44,,227766

1111,,331199
119900
−−
1111,,550099

8833,,003399

6644,,112244
11,,558888
((115555))
441166
−−
−−
((228800))
6655,,669933

33,,778888
118844
−−
−−
−−
33,,997722

1111,,009966
222233
−−
1111,,331199

8800,,998844

6622,,116622 
11,,558899 
5566 
3333 
−− 
−− 
228844 
6644,,112244 

33,,996644 
((117766))  
−− 
−− 
−− 
33,,778888 

1100,,991100 
118866 
−− 
1111,,009966 

7799,,000088 

5599,,447766
11,,227733
((119988))
−−
11,,663344
−−
((2233))
6622,,116622

33,,443355
552299
−−
−−
−−
33,,996644

1100,,774433
116677
−−
1100,,991100

7777,,003366

57,974 
1,629 
(203)  
(72)  
− 
− 
148 
59,476 

4,755 
(406)  
(914)  
− 
− 
3,435 

10,539 
204 
− 
10,743 

73,654 

(1) 

Also includes foreign exchange rate movements that are not considered material. 

The table above provides the risk-weighted assets movements by key drivers underlying the different risk categories. 

The “Book size” item reflects organic changes in book size and composition (including new loans and maturing loans). RWA movements attributable to book size 
include increases or decreases in exposures, measured by exposure at default, assuming a stable risk profile.  

The “Book quality” item is the Bank’s best estimate of changes in book quality related to experience, such as underlying customer behaviour or demographics, 
including changes resulting from model recalibrations or realignments and also including risk mitigation factors.  

The  “Model  updates”  item  is  used  to  reflect  implementations  of  new  models,  changes  in  model  scope,  and  any  other  change  applied  to  address  model 
malfunctions. During the quarter ended July 31, 2019, the Bank updated its models for credit card portfolios and energy sector loans. 

The “Methodology and policy” item presents the impact of changes in calculation methods resulting from changes in regulatory policies as a result, for example, 
of  new  regulations.  During  the  quarter  ended  January  31,  2019,  the  Bank  implemented  the  SA-CCR  rules  for  measuring  counterparty  credit  risk  under  the 
standardized approach, as required by the BCBS. During the quarter ended October 31, 2019, the Bank refined the risk-weight calculation method for derivative 
financial instruments. 

56

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Capital Management 

AAllllooccaattiioonn  ooff  EEccoonnoommiicc  CCaappiittaall  aanndd  RReegguullaattoorryy  RRWWAA    
Economic capital is an internal measure that the Bank uses to determine the capital it needs to remain solvent and to pursue its business operations. Economic 
capital takes into consideration the credit, market, operational, business and other risks to which the Bank is exposed as well as the risk diversification effect 
among them and among the business segments. Economic capital thus helps the Bank to determine the capital required to protect itself against such risks and 
ensure its long-term viability. The by-segment allocation of economic capital and regulatory RWA was done on a stand-alone basis before attribution of goodwill 
and intangible assets. The method used to assess economic capital is reviewed regularly in order to accurately quantify these risks. 

The Risk Management section of this MD&A provides comprehensive information about the main types of risk. The “Other risks” presented below include risks 
such as business risk and structural interest rate risk in addition to the benefit of diversification among types of risk. 

AAllllooccaattiioonn  ooff  RRiisskkss  bbyy  BBuussiinneessss  SSeeggmmeenntt  
As at October 31, 2019 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

NNAATTIIOONNAALL  BBAANNKK  OOFF  CCAANNAADDAA  

BBuussiinneessss  
sseeggmmeennttss  

PPeerrssoonnaall  aanndd  CCoommmmeerrcciiaall  

WWeeaalltthh  MMaannaaggeemmeenntt  

FFiinnaanncciiaall  MMaarrkkeettss  

Banking services 

Credit services 

Financing 

Full-service brokerage 

Private banking 

Direct brokerage 

MMaajjoorr  aaccttiivviittiieess  

Investment solutions 

Investment solutions 

Insurance 

Administrative and trade 
execution services 

Transaction products for 
advisors 

Trust and estate services 

Equities, Fixed-income, 
commodities and foreign 
exchange  

Corporate banking 

Investment banking 

UU..SS..  SSppeecciiaallttyy  FFiinnaannccee  aanndd  
IInntteerrnnaattiioonnaall  

OOtthheerr  

U.S. Specialty Finance 
•  Credigy 
International 
•  ABA Bank (Cambodia)
•  Minority interests in
emerging markets

Treasury activities 

Liquidity management 

Bank funding 

Asset and liability 
management 

Corporate units 

EEccoonnoommiicc  ccaappiittaall  
bbyy  ttyyppee  ooff  rriisskk  

RRiisskk--wweeiigghhtteedd  
aasssseettss  

Credit 
Market 
Operational 
Other risks 

TToottaall 

Credit 
Market 
Operational 

TToottaall 

1,708 
– 
390 
217 

22,,331155  

31,851 
– 
4,692 

3366,,554433 

Credit 
Market 
Operational 
Other risks 

TToottaall 

Credit 
Market 
Operational 

TToottaall 

105 
– 
242 
414 

776611  

1,811 
– 
2,917 

44,,772288 

Credit 
Market 
Operational 
Other risks 

TToottaall 

Credit 
Market 
Operational 

TToottaall 

2,199 
201 
308 
340 

33,,004488 

22,783 
4,147 
3,764 

3300,,669944 

Credit 
Market 
Operational 
Other risks 

TToottaall 

Credit 
Market 
Operational 

TToottaall 

521 
10 
82 
42 

665555 

6,588 
– 
1,024 

77,,661122 

Credit 
Market 
Operational 
Other risks 

TToottaall 

Credit 
Market 
Operational 

TToottaall 

63  
(16) 
(73) 
(84) 

((111100))  

4,221  
129  
(888) 

33,,446622   

National Bank of Canada

57

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual ReportManagement’s Discussion and Analysis 

RRiisskk  MMaannaaggeemmeenntt  

IInn  tthhiiss  sseeccttiioonn  ooff  tthhee  MMDD&&AA,,  ggrreeyy--sshhaaddeedd  tteexxtt  aanndd  ttaabblleess  mmaarrkkeedd  wwiitthh  aann  aasstteerriisskk  ((**))  aarree  iinntteeggrraall  ppaarrttss  ooff  tthhee  ccoonnssoolliiddaatteedd  ffiinnaanncciiaall  ssttaatteemmeennttss..  TThheeyy  
rreepprreesseenntt  tthhee  BBaannkk’’ss  oobbjjeeccttiivveess,,  tthhee  rriisskk  mmaannaaggeemmeenntt  ppoolliicciieess  aanndd  pprroocceedduurreess,,  aanndd  tthhee  mmeetthhooddss  aapppplliieedd  ttoo  mmeeaassuurree  ccrreeddiitt  rriisskk,,  mmaarrkkeett  rriisskk  aass  wweellll  aass  
lliiqquuiiddiittyy  aanndd  ffuunnddiinngg  rriisskk,,  aass  rreeqquuiirreedd  bbyy  IIFFRRSS  77  ––  FFiinnaanncciiaall  IInnssttrruummeennttss::  DDiisscclloossuurreess..  

Risk-taking is intrinsic to a financial institution’s business. The Bank views risk as an integral part of its development and the diversification of its activities. It 
advocates a risk management approach consistent with its business strategy. The Bank voluntarily exposes itself to certain risk categories, particularly credit 
and market risk, in order to generate revenue. It assumes certain risks that are inherent to its activities—to which it does not choose to expose itself—and that 
do not generate revenue, i.e., mainly operational risks. The purpose of sound and effective risk management is to provide reasonable assurance that incurred 
risks do not exceed acceptable thresholds, to control the volatility in the Bank's results, and to ensure that risk-taking contributes to the creation of shareholder 
value.  

RRiisskk  MMaannaaggeemmeenntt  FFrraammeewwoorrkk  

Risk  is  rigorously  managed.  Risks  are  identified,  measured  and  controlled  to  achieve  an  appropriate  balance  between  the  returns  obtained  and  the  risks 
assumed. Consequently, decision-making is supported by risk assessments and management processes that are consistent with the Bank’s risk appetite and 
by prudent levels of capital and liquidity. Despite the exercise of stringent risk management and the mitigation measures in place, risk cannot be suppressed 
entirely, and residual risks may occasionally cause significant losses.  

The Bank has developed guidelines that support sound and effective risk management: 

•

•
•
•

•

risk is everyone’s business: business units, risk management and oversight functions as well as Internal Audit play an important role in ensuring a risk
management framework is in place; 
client-centric: having quality information is key to understanding clients, effectively managing risk, and delivering excellent client service;
enterprise-wide: an integrated view of risk is the basis for sound and effective risk management and decision-making by management;
human capital: the Bank’s employees are engaged, experienced and have a high level of expertise; their curiosity supports continuous development and
their rigour ensures that risk management is built into the corporate culture; 
fact-based: good risk management relies heavily on common sense and good judgment and on advanced systems and models.

RRiisskk  AAppppeettiittee  
Risk  appetite  represents  how  much  risk  an  organization  is  willing  to  assume  to  achieve  its  business  strategy.  The  Bank  defines its  risk  appetite  by  setting 
tolerance thresholds, by aligning those thresholds with its business strategy, and by integrating risk management throughout its corporate culture. Risk appetite 
is built into decision-making processes as well as into strategic, financial and capital planning. 

The Bank’s risk appetite framework consists of principles, statements, metrics as well as targets and is reinforced by policies and limits. When setting its risk 
appetite  targets,  the  Bank  considers  regulatory  constraints  and  the  expectations  of  stakeholders,  in  particular  customers,  employees,  the  community, 
shareholders, regulatory agencies, governments, and rating agencies.  

The risk appetite framework is defined by the following principles and statements: 

The Bank’s brand, reputation and long-term viability are at the centre of our decisions, which demand: 

•
•
•
•

a strong credit rating to be maintained;
a strong capital and cash position;
rigorous management of regulatory compliance risk, including sales practices;
zero tolerance for negligence in information security.

The Bank understands the risks taken; they are aligned with our business strategy and translate into: 

•
•
•

a risk-reward balance;
a stable risk profile; 
a strategic level of concentration aligned with approved targets.

The Bank’s transformation and simplification plan is being carried out without compromising rigorous risk management, which is reflected in: 

•
•

a low tolerance to operational and reputation risk;
operational and information systems stability, both under normal circumstances and in times of crisis.

58

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Risk Management 

The Bank’s management and business units are involved in the process for setting the risk appetite and are responsible for adequately monitoring the chosen 
risk indicators. These needs are assessed by means of the enterprise strategic planning process. The risk indicators are reported on a regular basis to ensure an 
effective alignment of the Bank’s risk profile to its risk appetite; otherwise, appropriate actions could be taken. Additional information on the key credit, market 
and liquidity risk indicators monitored by the Bank’s management is presented on the following pages. 

EEnntteerrpprriissee--WWiiddee  SSttrreessss  TTeessttiinngg  
As part of a more extensive process aimed at ensuring that the Bank maintains adequate capital levels commensurate with its business strategy and risk appetite, 
an  enterprise-wide  stress  testing  program  is  in  place  at  the  Bank.  Stress  testing  can  be  defined  as  a  risk  management  method  that  assesses  the  potential 
effects—on the Bank’s financial position, capital and liquidity—of a series of specified changes in risk factors, corresponding to exceptional but plausible events. 
The program supports management’s decision-making process by identifying potential vulnerabilities for the Bank as a whole that are considered in setting 
limits  as  well  as  in  longer  term  business  planning.  The  scenarios  and  stress  test  results  are  reviewed  by  a  group  of  stress  testing  experts,  a  stress  testing 
oversight group and the Global Risk Committee (GRC) and are approved by the Board. For additional information, see the Stress Testing and Crisis Scenarios 
sections of this MD&A applicable to credit risk, market risk, and liquidity risk.  

IInnccoorrppoorraattiioonn  ooff  RRiisskk  MMaannaaggeemmeenntt  IInnttoo  tthhee  CCoorrppoorraattee  CCuullttuurree  
The  Bank’s  management  continually  promotes  risk  management  through  internal  communications.  A  balanced  approach  is  advocated,  whereby  business 
development  initiatives  are  combined  with  a  constant  focus  on  sound  and  effective  risk  management.  In  particular,  risk  is  taken  into  consideration  when 
preparing  the  segments’  business  plans,  when  analyzing  strategic  initiatives  and  when  launching  new  products.  The  Bank’s  risk  management  is  also 
strengthened by incentive compensation programs that are structured to reflect the Bank’s risk appetite. In addition, Internal Audit carries out an evaluation of 
the culture through its mandates. Finally, all employees must complete mandatory annual regulatory compliance training focused on the Bank’s Code of Conduct 
and Ethics and on anti-money laundering and anti-terrorist financing (AML/ATF) efforts. Risk management training is also offered across all segments of the 
Bank.  

Furthermore, to ensure the effectiveness of the existing risk management framework, the Bank has defined clear roles and responsibilities by reinforcing the 
concept  of  the  three  lines  of  defence.  The  Governance  Structure  section  presented  on  the  following  pages  defines  this  concept  as  well  as  the  roles  and 
responsibilities at all levels of the organization. 

FFiirrsstt  LLiinnee  ooff  DDeeffeennccee  
Risk Owner 

Business Units  

SSeeccoonndd  LLiinnee  ooff  DDeeffeennccee  
Independent Oversight 

Risk Management 
and Oversight Functions 

TThhiirrdd  LLiinnee  ooff  DDeeffeennccee  
Independent Assurance

Internal Audit  

• 

Identify, manage, assess and mitigate risks 
in day-to-day activities. 

policies and standards. 

•  Oversee risk management by setting 

•  Provide the Board and management with 

•  Ensure activities are in alignment with the 
Bank’s risk appetite and risk management 
policies. 

•  Provide independent oversight of 

management practices and an independent 
challenge of the first line of defence. 

•  Promote sound risk management at the 

Bank. 

•  Monitor and report on risk. 

independent assurance as to the 
effectiveness and efficiency of the main 
governance, risk management, and 
internal control processes and systems. 

•  Provide recommendations and advice to 
promote the Bank’s long-term financial 
strength. 

National Bank of Canada 

59

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Risk Management 

GGoovveerrnnaannccee  SSttrruuccttuurree**  
The following diagram shows the Bank’s overall governance architecture and the governance relationships established for risk management.  

SSHHAARREEHHOOLLDDEERRSS

EElleecctt

AAppppooiinntt

BBOOAARRDD  OOFF  
DDIIRREECCTTOORRSS

AAppppooiinnttss  aanndd  mmaannddaatteess

IInnddeeppeennddeenntt  
AAuuddiittoorr

RReeppoorrttss  ttoo

AAuuddiitt
CCoommmmiitttteeee

RRiisskk  MMaannaaggeemmeenntt  
CCoommmmiitttteeee

HHuummaann  RReessoouurrcceess  
CCoommmmiitttteeee

CCoonndduucctt  RReevviieeww
aanndd  CCoorrppoorraattee  GGoovveerrnnaannccee  
CCoommmmiitttteeee

RReeppoorrtt  ttoo

RReeppoorrtt  ttoo

AAddvviisseess

Internal Audit 
Oversight 
Function

Finance 
Oversight 
Function

Risk 
Management 
Oversight 
Function

RReeppoorrttss  ttoo

Global Risk Committee

Compliance 
Oversight 
Function

Compensation
Risk Oversight 
Working Group

RReeppoorrtt  ttoo

Financial 
Markets Risk 
Committee

Operational 
Risk 
Management 
Committee

Enterprise-
Wide Risk 
Management 
Committee

AAppppooiinnttss  

PPrreessiiddeenntt  
aanndd  CCEEOO

AAppppooiinnttss

OOffffiiccee  ooff  tthhee  
PPrreessiiddeenntt

RReeppoorrtt  ttoo

BBuussiinneessss  UUnniittss

The Board of Directors (Board)(1) 
The Board examines and approves the Bank’s overall risk philosophy and risk appetite, acknowledges and understands the main risks faced by the Bank, and 
makes sure appropriate systems are in place to effectively manage and control those risks. In addition, the Board ensures that the Bank operates in accordance 
with environmental, social and governance (ESG) practices and strategies. It performs its mandate both directly and through its committees, particularly the 
Audit Committee, the Risk Management Committee, the Human Resources Committee, and the Conduct Review and Corporate Governance Committee. 

The Audit Committee(1) 
The Audit Committee oversees the work of the Bank’s internal auditor and independent auditor; ensures the Bank's financial strength; establishes the Bank’s 
financial reporting framework, analysis processes and internal controls; and reviews any reports of irregularities in accounting, internal controls, and audit.  

The Risk Management Committee (RMC)(1) 
The Risk Management Committee examines the risk appetite framework and recommends it to the Board for approval. It approves the main risk management 
policies and risk tolerance limits. It ensures that appropriate resources, processes and procedures are in place to properly and effectively manage risk on an 
ongoing basis. Finally, it monitors the risk profile and risk trends of the Bank’s activities and ensures alignment with the risk appetite. 

The Human Resources Committee(1) 
The Human Resources Committee examines and approves the Bank’s total compensation policies and programs, taking into consideration the risk management 
framework, and recommends their approval to the Board. It sets annual objectives and key performance indicators for the President and Chief Executive Officer, 
recommends that they be approved by the Board, and evaluates the performance and achievements against these objectives and indicators. It recommends to 
the Board that it approves the compensation of the President and Chief Executive Officer, of the members of the Office of the President, and of the heads of the 
oversight functions. It also periodically reviews and examines the management succession plan. 

The Conduct Review and Corporate Governance Committee(1) 
The Conduct Review and Corporate Governance Committee ensures that the Bank maintains sound practices that comply with legislation and best practices, 
particularly in the area of ESG responsibilities. It must ensure that the directors are qualified by evaluating the performance and effectiveness of the Board and 
its members and by planning director succession and the composition of the Board. The Committee ensures that mechanisms are in place to prevent prohibited 
financial transactions between the Bank and related parties.   

(1) 

Additional information about the Bank’s governance architecture can be found in the Management Proxy Circular for the 2020 Annual Meeting of Holders of Common Shares, which will soon be 
available on the Bank’s website at nbc.ca and on SEDAR’s website at sedar.com. The mandates of the Board and its committees are available in their entirety at nbc.ca. 

60

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Risk Management 

The Office of the President and the Bank’s Management 
Composed of the President and Chief Executive Officer and the officers responsible for the Bank’s main functions and business units, the Office of the President 
ensures that risk management is effective and aligned with the Bank’s pursuit of its objectives and strategies. The Bank’s management promotes the integration 
of risk management into its corporate culture and manages the primary risks facing the Bank. 

The Internal Audit Oversight Function 
The  Internal  Audit  Oversight  Function  is  the  third  line  of  defence  in  the  risk  management  framework.  It  is  responsible  for  providing  the  Bank’s  Board  and 
management with objective, independent assurance as well as advice on the effectiveness and efficiency of the main governance, risk management, and internal 
control processes and systems and for making recommendations and providing advice to promote the Bank’s long-term strength. 

The Finance Oversight Function 
The Finance Oversight Function is responsible for optimizing management of financial resources and ensuring sound governance of financial information. It helps 
the business segments and support functions with their financial performance, ensures compliance with regulatory requirements, and carries out the Bank’s 
reporting to shareholders and the external reporting of the various units, entities and subsidiaries of the Bank. It is responsible for capital management and 
actively participates in the activities of the Asset/Liability Management Committee.

The Risk Management Oversight Function 
The  Risk  Management  Oversight  Function  is  responsible  for  identifying,  assessing  and  monitoring—independently  and  using  an  integrated  approach—the 
various risks to which the Bank is exposed and for promoting a risk management culture within the Bank. The Risk Management team helps the Board and 
management understand and monitor the main risks. The unit also develops, maintains and communicates the risk appetite framework while overseeing the 
integrity and reliability of risk measures. 

The Compliance Oversight Function 
The  Compliance  Oversight  Function  is  responsible  for  implementing  a  Bank-wide  regulatory  compliance  risk  management  framework  by  relying  on  an 
organizational structure that includes functional links to the main business segments. It also exercises independent oversight and evaluation of the compliance 
of the Bank and its subsidiaries with standards and policies on regulatory compliance risk. 

The Compensation Risk Oversight Working Group 
The working group that monitors compensation-related risks supports the Human Resources Committee in its compensation risk oversight role. It is a three-
member group consisting of the Executive Vice-President, Risk Management; the Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice-President, Finance; and the Executive 
Vice-President, Employee Experience. The working group helps to ensure that compensation policies and programs do not unduly encourage senior management 
members, officers, material risk takers or bank employees to take risks beyond the Bank’s risk tolerance thresholds. As part of that role, it ensures that the Bank 
is adhering to the Corporate Governance Guidelines issued by OSFI and to the Principles for Sound Compensation Practices issued by the Financial Stability 
Board,  for  which  the  Canadian  implementation  and  monitoring  is  conducted  by  OSFI.  The  Board’s  Risk  Management  Committee  also  reviews  the  reports 
presented by the working group to the Human Resources Committee. 

The Global Risk Committee (GRC) 
The Global Risk Committee defines the parameters of the policies that determine risk tolerance and the overall risk strategy, for the Bank and its subsidiaries as 
a  whole,  and  sets  limits  as  well  as  tolerance  and  intervention  thresholds  enabling  the  Bank  to  properly  manage  the  main  risks  to  which  it  is  exposed.  The 
committee approves and monitors all large credit facilities. It also recommends for Board approval the Bank’s risk philosophy, risk appetite and risk profile 
management.  The  Operational  Risk  Management  Committee,  the  Financial  Markets  Risk  Committee,  and  the  Enterprise-Wide  Risk  Management  Committee 
presented in the governance structure diagram are the primary committees reporting to the Global Risk Committee. The Global Risk Committee also carries out 
its mandate through the Senior Complex Valuation Committee, the Committee on Banks, the Models Oversight Committee and the Product and Activity Review 
Committees. 

The Business Units 
As the first line of defence, the business units manage risks related to their operations within established limits and in accordance with risk management policies 
by identifying, analyzing and understanding the risks to which they are exposed and implementing risk mitigation mechanisms. The management of these units 
must ensure that employees are adhering to current policies and limits.  

National Bank of Canada

61

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual ReportManagement’s Discussion and Analysis 
Risk Management 

RRiisskk  MMaannaaggeemmeenntt  PPoolliicciieess  
The risk management policies and related standards and procedures set out responsibilities, define and describe the main activity-related risks, specify the 
requirements that the business units must meet in assessing and managing risk, stipulate the authorization process for risk-taking and set the risk limits to be 
adhered to. These policies cover the main risks in the Bank, are reviewed regularly to ensure they are still relevant given changes in the markets and in the 
business plans of the Bank’s business units, and apply to the entire Bank and its subsidiaries. Other policies, standards, and procedures complement the main 
policies  and  cover  more  specific  aspects  of  risk  management  such  as  business  continuity,  the  launch  of  new  products,  initiatives  or  activities,  or  financial 
instrument measurement.  

GGoovveerrnnaannccee  ooff  MMooddeell  RRiisskk  MMaannaaggeemmeenntt  
The Bank makes increasing use of models to guide enterprise-wide risk management, financial markets strategy, economic and regulatory capital allocation, 
global credit risk management, wealth management and profitability measures. Models have in fact become a standard in risk management. This stresses the 
growing importance of model risk for banks, hence the implementation of a rigorous model risk management process to ensure models can be used appropriately 
and efficiently to manage risks. 

The key components of the Bank’s model risk management governance framework are as follows: the model risk management policies and standards, the model 
vetting group, and the Models Oversight Committee. The policies and standards set the rules and principles applicable to developing and vetting models. The 
scope of models covered is wide, ranging from market risk pricing models and automated credit decision-making models to the business risk capital model, 
including  models  used  for  regulatory  capital  and  stressed  capital  purposes,  IFRS  9  models,  and  financial-crime  models.  The  framework  also  includes  more 
advanced artificial intelligence models. 

One of the cornerstones of the Bank’s policies is the general principle that all models deemed important for the Bank or used for regulatory capital purposes 
require heightened lifecycle monitoring and independent vetting. All models used by the Bank are therefore classified in terms of risk level (low, medium, or 
high). Based on this classification, the Bank applies strict guidelines regarding the requirements for model development and documentation, independent review 
thereof, performance monitoring thereof, and minimum review frequency. The Bank believes that the best defence against “model risk” is the implementation 
of a robust development and validation framework. 

IInnddeeppeennddeenntt  OOvveerrssiigghhtt  bbyy  tthhee  CCoommpplliiaannccee  SSeerrvviiccee  
Compliance is an independent oversight function within the Bank. Its Senior Vice-President and Chief Compliance Officer has direct access to the RMC and to 
the President and Chief Executive Officer and can communicate directly with officers and directors of the Bank and of its subsidiaries and foreign centres. The 
Senior Vice-President, Chief Compliance Officer and Chief Anti-Money Laundering Officer regularly meets with the Chair of the RMC (with whom she has a direct 
reporting relationship) in the absence of management, to review matters on the relationship between the Compliance Service and the Bank’s management and 
on access to the information required.

Business unit managers must oversee the implementation of mechanisms for the daily control of regulatory compliance risks arising from the operations under 
their  responsibility.  Compliance  exercises  independent  oversight  in  order  to  assist  managers  in  effectively  managing  these  risks  and  to  obtain  reasonable 
assurance that the Bank is compliant with the regulatory requirements in effect where it does business, both in Canada and internationally. 

IInnddeeppeennddeenntt  AAsssseessssmmeenntt  bbyy  IInntteerrnnaall  AAuuddiitt  
Internal Audit is an independent, objective function within the Bank. Through the Audit Committee, it provides assurance to management and the Board as to 
the Bank’s level of command over its activities, advises on how to improve those activities, and contributes to the creation of added value. It helps the Bank to 
achieve its objectives by applying a systematic, methodical approach for assessing and improving the effectiveness of the design and operation of its main 
governance, risk management and internal control processes and systems and formulates recommendations to promote the Bank’s long-term strength. 

Whenever recommendations are issued, Internal Audit is mandated to independently evaluate the appropriateness of the measures taken by managers to resolve 
issues and then to ensure rigorous follow-up. The Senior Vice-President, Internal Audit reports to the Chair of the Audit Committee. Her independence is ensured 
through an administrative relationship with the President and Chief Executive Officer, and she may, at any time, call an unscheduled Audit Committee meeting.  
Internal Audit has unrestricted access to all business segments, corporate units and subsidiaries of the Bank. 

62

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Risk Management 

TToopp  aanndd  EEmmeerrggiinngg  RRiisskkss  

Top and emerging risks are risks that could have a material adverse effect on the Bank’s financial results, reputation, or long-term business model and strategy. 
The Bank’s processes are designed to detect and assess these risks as early as possible so that appropriate mitigating strategies can be applied.  

Managing risk requires a solid understanding of every type of risk found across the Bank. The Bank therefore maintains an inventory of the main risks and the 
emerging risks to which it is exposed. Doing so makes it easier to identify and effectively manage risks. In the normal course of business, the Bank is primarily 
exposed to the following risks. 

Credit 
risk 

Market 
risk 

Funding and 
liquidity risk 

Operational 
risk 

Regulatory 
compliance risk 

Reputation  
risk 

Strategic 
risk 

Environmental 
risk 

The Bank is also exposed to other significant and emerging risks, as defined below. 

RRiisskk  

TTrreenndd  

DDeessccrriippttiioonn  

IInnffoorrmmaattiioonn  
sseeccuurriittyy  aanndd  
ccyybbeerrsseeccuurriittyy  

Technology, which is now omnipresent in our daily lives, is at the heart of banking services and has become the main 
driver of innovation in the financial sector. While this digital transformation meets the growing needs of customers while 
enhancing the operational efficiency of institutions, it nevertheless comes with information security and cybersecurity 
risks. The personal information and financial data of financial institution customers are prime targets for criminals. These 
criminals, who are increasingly well organized and employing ever more sophisticated schemes, try to use technology to 
steal information. 

Faced  with  a  resurgence  of  cyberthreats  and  the  sophistication  of  cybercriminals,  the  Bank  is  exposed  to  the  risks 
associated with data breaches, malicious software, unauthorized access, hacking, phishing, identity theft, intellectual 
property theft, asset theft, industrial espionage, and possible denial of service due to activities causing network failures 
and service interruptions.  

Cyberattacks,  as  with  system  breaches  or  interruptions  that  support  the  Bank  and  its  customers,  could  cause  client 
attrition; financial loss; inability of clients to do their banking; non-compliance with privacy legislation or any other laws 
in  effect;  legal  disputes;  fines;  penalties  or  regulatory  action;  reputational  damage;  compliance  costs,  corrective 
measures,  investigative,  or  restoration  costs;  cost  hikes  to  maintain  and  upgrade  technological  infrastructures  and 
systems, all of which could affect the Bank’s operating results or financial position.  

It is also possible for the Bank to be unable to prevent or implement effective preventive measures against every potential 
cyberthreat,  as  the  tactics  used  are  multiplying,  change  frequently,  come  from  a  wide  range  of  sources  and  are 
increasingly sophisticated.  

Within  this  context,  the  Bank  works  to  ensure  the  integrity  and  protection  of  its  systems  and  information.  The  Bank 
reaffirms its commitment to continuous improvement in the area of information security, the ultimate goal being to protect 
its customers and maintain their trust. Along with its partners in the financial sector and with the regulatory authorities, 
the  Bank  is  committed  to  making  a  sustained  effort  to  mitigate  technology  risks.  Measures  specifically  directed  at 
anticipating  this  type  of  threat  include  the  formation  of  multidisciplinary  teams  comprising  cybersecurity  and  fraud 
prevention specialists. The Bank is also pursuing initiatives under its own cybersecurity program aimed at adapting its 
protection,  surveillance,  detection  and  response  capabilities  in  response  to  changing  threats.  A  governance  and 
accountability structure has also been established to support decision-making based on sound risk management. The 
RMC is regularly informed of cybersecurity trends and developments and of lessons learned from operational incidents 
that have occurred in other large organizations in order to gain a better understanding of potential risks, particularly risks 
related to cybersecurity and the protection of personal information. 

National Bank of Canada

63

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual ReportManagement’s Discussion and Analysis 
Risk Management 

RRiisskk  

TTrreenndd  

DDeessccrriippttiioonn  

The current economic expansion in the United States has  become  the longest since  World War II, and this  has many 
observers wondering whether a recession is imminent. Clearly the power struggle between China and the United States 
over trade has given cause for concern. The longer that this climate of uncertainty persists, the greater the likelihood 
that business leaders will delay investment and hiring plans as they wait for more clarity on the new rules of the game. 
Activity in the global manufacturing sector slowed significantly in 2019 but, fortunately, the service sector continued to 
perform  well.  Some  emerging  countries  are  particularly  vulnerable  to  rising  protectionism,  given  the  important  role 
played by  the manufacturing sector in their economies. In addition, in recent years, U.S.-dollar debt levels in certain 
countries have risen sharply, and an appreciation of the U.S. dollar could compromise the creditworthiness of certain 
borrowers.  In  Europe,  geopolitical  risks  are  abound,  including  the  possibility  that  the  United  Kingdom  will  leave  the 
European  Union  without  an  agreement,  political  uncertainty  in  Italy,  and  a  potential  resurgence  of  the  yellow  vest 
movement in France.  

Given the exceptional monetary measures taken by central banks combined with mild economic growth and low inflation, 
long-term  interest  rates  have  remained  low  for  a  long  time  in  the  advanced  economies.  Such  a  situation  may  have 
prompted  market  participants  to  adopt  excessive  risk-taking  strategies  in  search  of  higher  returns,  which  may  have 
adverse effects should the economy falter or interest rates rise. Therefore, the Bank is remaining vigilant and continuing 
to  rely  on  its  strong  risk  management  framework  to  identify,  assess,  and  mitigate  risk  and  to  remain  within  the  risk 
appetite limits. 

The Canadian economy is showing encouraging signs in a gloomy global economic environment. The labour market has 
been resilient despite disappointing economic growth in the fourth quarter of 2018 and in the first quarter of 2019. A 
strong rebound in the second quarter confirmed that this weakness was only temporary, particularly in the energy sector. 
In the wake of the sharp drop in oil prices in 2014-2015, producers have adapted to the new environment, but if oil and 
gas prices were to fall even further, producers would face obstacles that would affect their repayment capacity and credit 
quality. The fossil fuel-producing provinces continue to idle and their unemployment rates remain high. Sound economic 
and  financial  conditions  in  the  three  largest  provinces  (Ontario,  Quebec  and  British  Columbia)  continue,  however,  to 
support a credit environment favourable to the loan portfolios. Still, Canada remains vulnerable to a deteriorating global 
economic backdrop, which threatens to erode job creation and disposable household income—even more so given high 
debt levels. While the Vancouver  and Toronto real  estate markets  are showing  some  stability  after  a slowdown,  they 
remain vulnerable to a less favourable economic environment due to high prices. An unexpected jump in inflation also 
represents a risk to the Canadian economy to the extent that it could prompt the U.S. Federal Reserve or the Bank of 
Canada  to  scale  back  its  monetary  accommodation.  Should  this  occur,  real  estate  assets,  among  others,  would  be 
vulnerable to a price correction.  

The Bank monitors international developments that may affect the Canadian economy. Even though Canada has reached 
a trade agreement with its North American partners, American protectionism continues to pose a risk to Canada. For 
example, the U.S. administration did not hesitate to threaten Mexico with tariffs during the migrant dispute, even though 
a trade agreement had just been reached. In addition, the current Chinese-American conflict may gradually lead to the 
development of two quite separate supply chains. Should this occur, Canadian companies that choose to focus on the 
U.S. market may be denied access to the Chinese market, while those that choose the Chinese market may have more 
difficulty gaining market share in the United States. These uncertainties may significantly destabilize certain sectors, 
and the Bank has responded by continuing to monitor market developments and remaining vigilant in line with its risk 
tolerance policy. 

EEccoonnoommiicc  
aanndd  
ggeeooppoolliittiiccaall  
rriisskk  

64

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Risk Management 

RRiisskk  

TTrreenndd  

DDeessccrriippttiioonn  

RReelliiaannccee  oonn  
tteecchhnnoollooggyy  
aanndd  tthhiirrdd  
ppaarrttiieess 

EEnnvviirroonnmmeennttaall,,  
ssoocciiaall  aanndd  
ggoovveerrnnaannccee  
((EESSGG))  
aapppprrooaacchh  aanndd  
cclliimmaattee  
cchhaannggee  

TTeecchhnnoollooggiiccaall  
iinnnnoovvaattiioonn  aanndd  
ccoommppeettiittiioonn  

The Bank is reliant on technology, as clients are seeking greater access to products and services on a variety of platforms 
that  must  support  substantial  data  volumes.  The  fast  pace  of  technological  change  combined  with  both  client  and 
competitive  pressures  require  significant  and  sustained  investment  in  technology.  Inadequate  implementation  of 
technological improvements or new products or services could significantly affect the Bank’s ability to serve and retain 
clients.  

Third parties provide essential components of the Bank’s technological infrastructure such as Internet connections and 
access to network and other communications services. The Bank also relies on the services of third parties to support 
business processes and to handle certain IT activities. In some cases, these business relationships require the sharing 
of confidential information. An interruption of these services or a breach of security could have an unfavourable impact 
on the Bank’s ability to provide products and services to its customers and  to conduct business, not to mention the 
impact  it  would  have  on  the  Bank’s  reputation.  To  mitigate  this  risk,  the  Bank  has  a  third-party  risk  management 
framework  wherein  information  security,  financial  health,  and  performance  are  validated  before  any  agreements  are 
reached  and  throughout  the  life  of  the  agreements.  It  also  includes  business  continuity  plans,  which  are  tested 
periodically to ensure their effectiveness in times of crisis. Despite these preventive measures and the efforts deployed 
by the Bank’s teams to manage third parties, there remains a possibility that certain risks will materialize. In such cases, 
the Bank would then rely on the contingency and mitigation measures established in collaboration with the third parties. 
The Bank is aware of the significance of third-party-related risks and continues to develop its practices in this regard. 

In recent years, the environmental, social and governance (ESG) approach has not been a major concern for customers 
and investors. Today, perceptions have changed, and many stakeholders now agree that these issues have become a 
current concern and could affect corporate profitability in the near future. The Bank has therefore adopted ESG principles 
and supported a variety of sustainable development initiatives.   

The  increased  focus  on  ESG  issues  has  not  been  prompted  by  any  specific  laws  or  regulations  requiring  greater 
disclosure but rather by a desire for transparency and a broader understanding of their impact on corporate reputation 
and finances. Pressures from customers, investors, environmental groups and, more recently, non-financial bodies have 
also prompted financial institutions to consider the ways  in which the ESG approach could affect their operations in 
terms of reputation risk, strategy, and portfolio management and what they can do to apply principles of responsible 
citizenship.  

In  recent  years  there  has  been  a  growing  emphasis  on  environmental  and  climate  issues.  A  financial  disclosure 
framework has been published, as well as various climate change guides for banks, insurers and portfolio managers. 
Considerable change is occurring in terms of commitment to and implementation of such frameworks and guides.   

In  addition,  the  Bank  of  Canada’s  annual Financial System Review  addressed  issues  such  as  the  interrelationships 
between the environment, the economy, and the financial system. This is particularly true in Canada, where resources 
play a vital role in our economy and where the natural environment is a defining feature of our identity.  Although no 
specific requirements have been published, we will continue to closely monitor developments in this area and all their 
implications for the Bank. 

The Bank’s financial performance depends on its ability to develop and market new and innovative products and services, 
adopt and develop new technologies that help differentiate its products and services and generate cost savings, and 
market these new products and services at the right time and at competitive prices. Failure to properly review critical 
changes within  the business before and during the implementation  and deployment  of key technological  systems or 
failure to align client expectations with the Bank’s client commitments and operating capabilities could adversely affect 
the Bank’s operating results or financial position. 

In addition, the level of competition in the Bank’s markets has an impact on its performance. Retaining clients hinges on 
several factors, including the prices of products and services, quality of service, and changes to the products and services 
offered.   

National Bank of Canada

65

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual ReportManagement’s Discussion and Analysis 
Risk Management 

OOtthheerr  FFaaccttoorrss  TThhaatt  CCaann  AAffffeecctt  FFuuttuurree  RReessuullttss  
International Risks 
Through the operations of some of its units (mainly its New York and London offices) and subsidiaries in Canada and abroad (in particular, Credigy Ltd., NBC 
Global  Finance  Limited,  and  Advanced  Bank  of  Asia  Limited),  the  Bank  is  exposed  to  risks  arising  from  its  presence  in  international  markets  and  foreign 
jurisdictions. While these risks do not affect a significant proportion of the Bank’s portfolios, their impact must not be overlooked, especially those that are of a 
legal or regulatory nature. Such risk can be particularly high when the exposure is in a territory where the enforceability of agreements signed by the Bank is 
uncertain, in countries and regions facing political or socio-economic disturbances, or in countries that may be subject to international sanctions. Generally 
speaking, there are many ways in which the Bank may be exposed to the risks posed by other countries, not the least of which being foreign laws and regulations. 
In all such situations, it is important to consider what is referred to as “country risk.” Country risk affects not only the activities that the Bank carries out abroad 
but also the business that it conducts with non-resident clients as well as the services it provides to clients doing business abroad, such as electronic funds 
transfers, international products and transactions from Canada in foreign currencies.  

As  part  of  its  activities,  the  Bank  must  adhere  to  anti-money  laundering  and  anti-terrorist  financing  (AML/ATF)  regulatory  requirements  in  effect  in  each 
jurisdiction where it conducts business. It must also comply with the requirements pertaining to current international sanctions in these various jurisdictions. 
Money  laundering  and  terrorist  financing  is  a  financial,  regulatory  and  reputation  risk.  For  additional  information,  see  the  Regulatory  Compliance  Risk 
Management section. 

The Bank is exposed to financial risks outside Canada and the United States primarily through its interbank transactions on international financial markets or 
through international trade finance activities. This geographic exposure represents a moderate proportion of the Bank’s total risk. The geographic exposure of 
loans is disclosed in the quarterly Supplementary Financial Information report available on the Bank’s website at nbc.ca. To control country risk, the Bank sets 
credit concentration limits by country and reviews and submits them to the Board for approval upon renewal of the Credit Risk Management Policy. These limits 
are based on a percentage of the Bank’s regulatory capital, in line with the level of risk represented by each country, particularly emerging countries. The risk is 
rated  using  a  classification  mechanism  similar  to  the  one  used  for  credit  default  risk.  In  addition  to  the  country  limits,  authorization  caps  and  limits  are 
established, as a percentage of capital, for the world’s high-risk regions, i.e., essentially all regions except for North America, Western European countries and 
the developed countries of Asia. 

Acquisitions 
The Bank’s ability to successfully complete an acquisition is often conditional on regulatory approval, and the Bank cannot be certain of the timing or conditions 
of  regulatory  decisions.  Acquisitions  could  affect  future  results  should  the  Bank  experience  difficulty  integrating  the  acquired  business.  If  the  Bank  does 
encounter difficulty integrating an acquired business, maintaining an appropriate governance level over the acquired business, or retaining key officers within 
the acquired business, these factors could prevent the Bank from realizing expected revenue growth, cost savings, market share gains and other projected 
benefits of the acquisition.  

Intellectual Property  
The Bank protects the intellectual property developed by its employees in connection with their duties. However, in some cases, it may have a more limited 
ability to acquire intellectual property rights. Moreover, the intellectual property rights acquired by the Bank provide no guarantees that they will be effective in 
deterring or preventing a third party from misappropriating intellectual property or providing a defense against the misappropriation of intellectual property. 
Moreover, the goods and services developed by the Bank are provided in a competitive market where third parties could hold intellectual property rights prior 
to those held by the Bank. In such circumstances, there is no guarantee that the Bank will successfully provide a defense against an infringement claim, that it 
will be able to modify its goods and services to avoid infringing upon third party rights or that it will obtain a licence with commercially acceptable conditions. 

Ability to Attract and Retain Key Officers 
The Bank’s future performance depends largely on its ability to attract and retain key officers. There is intense competition for the best people in the financial 
services industry, and there is no assurance that the Bank, or any entity it acquires, will be able to continue to attract and retain key officers. 

Judicial and Regulatory Proceedings  
The Bank takes reasonable measures to comply with the laws and regulations in effect in the jurisdictions where it operates. Should these measures prove 
ineffective, the Bank could be subject to judicial or regulatory decisions resulting in fines, damages, or other costs or to restrictions likely to adversely affect its 
operating results or its reputation. The Bank may also be subject to litigation in the normal course of business. Although the Bank establishes provisions for the 
measures it is subject to under accounting requirements, actual losses resulting from such litigation could differ significantly from the recognized amounts, and 
unfavourable outcomes in such cases could have a significant adverse effect on the Bank’s operating results. The resulting reputational damage could also affect 
the Bank’s future business prospects. For additional information, see Note 26 to the consolidated financial statements. 

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Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Risk Management 

Accounting Policies, Methods and Estimates Used by the Bank 
The accounting policies and methods used by the Bank determine how the Bank reports its financial position and operating results and require management to 
make estimates or rely on assumptions about matters that are inherently uncertain. Any changes to these estimates and assumptions may have a significant 
impact on the Bank’s operating results and financial position.  

Other Factors 
Other factors that could affect the Bank’s future results include amendments to tax legislation, unexpected changes in consumer spending and saving habits, 
the timely development and launch of new products and services, the ability to successfully align its organizational structure, resources and processes, the 
ability  to  activate  a  business  continuity  plan  within  a  reasonable  time,  the  potential  impact  of  international  conflicts  or  natural  catastrophes  on  the  Bank’s 
activities, and the Bank’s ability to foresee and effectively manage the risks associated with these factors through rigorous risk management. 

CCrreeddiitt  RRiisskk    

Credit risk is the risk of incurring a financial loss if an obligor does not fully honour its contractual commitments to the Bank. Obligors may be debtors, issuers, 
counterparties or guarantors. Credit risk is the most significant risk facing the Bank in the normal course of business. The Bank is exposed to credit risk not only 
through its direct lending activities and transactions but also through commitments to extend credit, letters of guarantee, letters of credit, over-the-counter 
derivatives trading, debt securities, securities purchased under reverse repurchase agreements, deposits with financial institutions, brokerage activities, and 
transactions carrying a settlement risk for the Bank such as irrevocable fund transfers to third parties via electronic payment systems. 

GGoovveerrnnaannccee  
A policy framework centralizes the governance of activities that generate credit risk for the Bank and is supplemented by a series of subordinate internal policies 
and standards. These policies and standards address specific management issues such as credit limits, collateral requirements and risk quantification or issues 
that provide more thorough guidance for given business segments.  

For example, the institutional activities of the Bank and its subsidiaries on financial markets and international commercial transactions are governed by business 
unit directives that set out standards adapted to the specific environment of these activities. This also applies to retail brokerage subsidiaries. In isolated cases, 
a business unit or subsidiary may have its own credit policy, and that policy must always fall within the spirit of the Bank’s policy framework and be reviewed 
and  approved  by  the  management  of  the  Risk  Management  Group.  The  Risk  Management  Group  defines  the  scope  of  the  universe  of  subsidiaries  carrying 
significant credit risks and the magnitude of the risks incurred.  

Credit risk is controlled through a rigorous process that comprises the following elements: 

•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

credit risk rating and assessment;
economic capital assessment;
stress testing and crisis scenarios;
credit granting process; 
revision and renewal process;
risk mitigation;
follow-up of monitored accounts and recovery; 
counterparty risk assessment;
settlement risk assessment.

Reporting 
Every quarter, an integrated risk management report is presented to senior management and the RMC. It presents changes in the credit portfolio and highlights 
on the following matters:  

•
•
•
•
•

credit portfolio volume growth by business segment;
a breakdown of the credit portfolio according to various criteria for which concentration limits have been set; 
changes in allowances for credit losses; 
changes in impaired loans; 
follow-up of monitored accounts. 

National Bank of Canada

67

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual ReportManagement’s Discussion and Analysis 
Risk Management 

CCrreeddiitt  RRiisskk  RRaattiinngg  aanndd  AAsssseessssmmeenntt  
Before  a  sound  and  prudent  credit  decision  can  be  made,  the  obligor’s  or  counterparty’s  credit  risk  must  be  accurately  assessed.  This  is  the  first  step  in 
processing credit applications. Each application is analyzed and assigned one of 19 grades on a scale of 1 to 10 using a credit rating system developed by the 
Bank for all portfolios exposed to credit risk. As each grade corresponds to a debtor’s, counterparty’s or third party’s probability of default, the Bank can estimate 
the credit risk. The credit risk assessment method varies according to portfolio type. There are two main methods for assessing credit risk, i.e., the Advanced 
Internal Rating-Based (AIRB) Approach and the Standardized Approach, as defined by the Basel Accord to determine minimum regulatory capital requirements 
for most of its portfolios. 

The main parameters used to measure the credit risk of loans outstanding and undrawn amounts under the AIRB Approach are as follows: 

•  probability of default (PD), which is the probability of through-the-cycle 12-month default by the obligor, calibrated on a long-run average PD throughout a 

• 

full economic cycle; 
loss given default (LGD), which represents the magnitude of the loss from the obligor’s default that would be expected in an economic downturn and subject 
to certain regulatory floors, expressed as a percentage of exposure at default; 

•  exposure at default (EAD), which is an estimate of the amount drawn and of the expected use of any undrawn portion prior to default, and cannot be lower 

than the current balance.  

The methodology as well as the data and the downturn periods used to estimate LGD are described below. 

AAIIRRBB  AAPPPPRROOAACCHH  

DDAATTAA  

DDOOWWNNTTUURRNN  PPEERRIIOODD  

MMEETTHHOODDOOLLOOGGYY  FFOORR  CCAALLCCUULLAATTIINNGG  LLGGDD  

Retail 

The Bank’s internal historical data from 1996 to 2016 

1996-1998, 2000-2002 
October 2008 – December 2009 

LGD based on the Bank’s historical 
internal data on recoveries and losses 

Corporate 

The Bank’s internal historical data from 2000 to 2018 

2000-2003, 2008-2009 and 
2014-2018 

LGD based on the Bank’s historical 
internal data on recoveries and losses 

Sovereign 

Moody’s observed default price of bonds, from 
1983 to 2015 

S&P rating history from 1975 to 2016 

1999-2001 and 2008-2012 

Based on implied market LGD using 
observed bond price decreases 
following the issuer’s default 

Financial institutions 

Global Credit Data Consortium historical loss and 
recovery database from 1998 to 2014 

1991-1992, 1994, 1998, 
2001-2002 and 2008-2009 

Model for predicting LGD based on 
different issue- and issuer-related risk 
drivers 

Personal Credit Portfolios 
This category comprises portfolios of residential mortgage loans, consumer loans and loans to certain small businesses. To assess credit risk, AIRB models are 
in place for the main portfolios, particularly mortgage loans, home equity lines of credit, credit cards, budget loans and lines of credit. A risk analysis based on 
loan  grouping  in  pools  of  homogeneous  obligor  and  product  profiles  is  used  for  overall  management  of  personal  credit  portfolios.  This  personal  credit 
assessment approach, which has proven particularly effective for estimating credit defaults and losses, takes a number of factors into account, namely:  

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

behaviour scoring; 
loan product characteristics; 
collateral provided; 
the length of time on the Bank’s balance sheet;  
loan status (active, delinquent or defaulted).  

This mechanism provides adequate risk measurement inasmuch as it effectively differentiates risk levels by pool. Therefore, the results are periodically reviewed 
and, if necessary, adjustments are made to the models. Obligor migrations between pools are among the factors considered in the credit risk assessment.  

68

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Risk Management 

Loan pools are also established based on PD, LGD, and EAD, which are measured based on the characteristics of the obligor and the transaction itself. The credit 
risk of these portfolios is estimated using credit scoring models that determine the obligor’s PD. LGD is estimated based on transaction-specific factors such as 
loan product characteristics (for example, a line of credit versus a term loan), loan-to-value ratio and types of collateral.  

Under the Bank’s standards applicable to default-risk rating and facility-risk rating and according to its risk review, renewal and quantification standards, default 
risk ratings must be reviewed annually.  

Credit scoring models are also used to grant credit. These models use proven statistical methods that measure applicants’ demand characteristics and history 
based on internal and external historical information to estimate the applicant’s future credit behaviour and assign a probability of default. The underlying data 
include client information such as current and past employment, historical loan data in the Bank’s management systems and information from external sources 
such as credit rating agencies.  

The Bank also uses behaviour scoring models to manage and monitor current commitments. The risk assessment is based on statistical analyses of the past 
behaviour of obligors with which the Bank has a long-term relationship in an effort to predict their future behaviour. The underlying information includes the 
obligor’s cash flows and borrowing trends. Information on characteristics that determine behaviour in these models also comes from both internal sources on 
current commitments and external sources. The table below shows the PD categories along with the associated credit qualities of the personal credit portfolio. 

Business and Government Credit Portfolios 
This category comprises business (other than some small businesses that are classified in personal credit portfolios), government and financial institution credit 
portfolios. 

These credit portfolios are assigned a risk rating based on a detailed individual analysis of the financial and non-financial aspects of the obligor, including the 
obligor’s financial strength, sector of economic activity, competitive ability, access to capital and management quality. The Bank has risk-rating tools and models 
enabling it to specifically assess the risk represented by an obligor in relation to its industry and peers. The models used are adapted to the obligor’s broad 
sector of activity. Models are in place for ten sectors: business/commercial, large business, financial institutions, sovereigns, investment funds, energy, real 
estate, agriculture, insurance, and public-private partnership project financing. 

This risk assessment method assigns a default risk rating to an obligor that reflects its credit quality. To each default credit risk rating corresponds a PD (see the 
following table). Using this classification of obligor credit risk, the Bank can differentiate appropriately between the various assessments of an obligor’s capacity 
to meet its  contractual obligations. Default risk ratings are assigned according to  an assessment of  an obligor’s  commercial  and financial risks based  on a 
solvency review. Various risk quantification models, described below, are used to perform this assessment. 

The business and government default risk rating scale used by the Bank is similar to the systems used by major external rating agencies. The following table 
presents a grouping of the ratings by major risk category and compares them with the ratings of two major rating agencies. 

IInntteerrnnaall  DDeeffaauulltt  RRiisskk  RRaattiinnggss**  

Description(1) 

Personal credit 
portfolios  

Excellent  
Good  
Satisfactory  
Special mention  
Substandard  
Default  

PD (%) – Retail 

Ratings  

0.000–0.144 
0.145–0.506 
0.507–2.681 
2.682–9.348 
9.349–99.999 
100 

1–2.5  
3–4  
4.5–6.5  
7–7.5  
8–8.5  
9–10  

PD (%) – 
Corporate and 
financial institutions  

0.000–0.125 
0.125–0.451 
0.451–4.743 
4.743–11.161 
11.161–99.999 
100 

Business and government 
 credit portfolios  

PD (%) – 
Sovereign   

Standard 
& Poor's   

0.000–0.094    
0.094–0.454    
0.454–6.607    
6.607–19.120    
19.120–99.999    

100 

AAA to A-   
BBB+ to BBB-   
BB+ to B   
B- to CCC+   
CCC & CCC-   
CC, C & D 

Moody's 

Aaa to A3 
Baa1 to Baa3 
Ba1 to B2 
B3 to Caa1 
Caa2 & Caa3 
Ca, C & D 

(1) 

Additional information is provided in Note 7 – Loans and Allowances for Credit Losses to the audited annual consolidated financial statements for the year ended October 31, 2019. 

The Bank also uses individual assessment models by industry to assign a risk rating to the credit facility based on the collateral and guarantees the obligor is 
able to provide and, in some cases, based on other factors. The Bank consequently has a bi-dimensional risk-rating system that, using models and based on 
internal and external historical data, establishes a default risk rating for each obligor. In addition, the models assign, to each credit facility, an LGD risk rating 
that is independent of the default risk rating assigned to the obligor. 

National Bank of Canada 

69

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
   
 
   
   
  
 
 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Risk Management 

The Bank’s default risk ratings and LGD risk ratings as well as the related risk parameters contribute directly to informed credit-granting, renewal and monitoring 
decisions. They are also used to determine and analyze risk-based pricing. In addition, from a credit portfolio management perspective, they are used to establish 
counterparty credit concentration limits and segment concentration limits and to determine the credit risk appetite of these portfolios. Moreover, they represent 
an important component in estimating expected and unexpected losses, measuring minimum required economic capital, and measuring the minimum level of 
capital required, as prescribed by the regulatory authorities. 

The credit risk of obligors and of their facilities is assessed with the PD and LGD parameters at least once a year or more often if significant changes (triggers) 
are observed when updating financial information or if another qualitative indicator of a deterioration in the obligor’s solvency or in the collateral associated 
with the obligor’s facilities is noted. A watchlist also exists that enables the Bank to more actively monitor the financial position of obligors whose default-risk 
rating is greater than or equal to 7.0. This process seeks to minimize an obligor’s default risk and allows for proactive credit risk management. 

Validation 
The Risk Management Group monitors the effectiveness of the risk-rating systems and associated parameters, which are also reviewed regularly in accordance 
with the Bank’s policies.  

Backtesting is performed at regular intervals to validate the effectiveness of the models used to estimate PD, LGD, and EAD. For PD in particular, this backtesting 
takes the form of sequentially applied statistical tests designed to assess the following criteria: 

the model’s discriminatory power; 

• 
•  overrides; 
•  model calibration;  
• 

the stability of the model’s output. 

The credit risk quantification models are developed and tested by a team of specialists and their performance is monitored by the applicable business units and 
related credit risk management services. Models are validated by a unit that is independent of both the specialists who developed the model and the concerned 
business units. Approvals of new models or changes to existing models are subject to an escalation process established by the model risk management policy. 
Furthermore, new models or changes to existing models that markedly impact regulatory capital must be approved by the Board before being submitted to the 
regulatory agencies, and a summary report of all changes to the models is submitted to the RMC once a year.  

The facility and default risk-rating systems, methods and models are also subject to periodic independent validation as often as required given the inherent risk 
of  the  activity.  Models  that  have  a  significant  impact  on  regulatory  capital  must  be  reviewed  regularly,  thereby  further  raising  the  certainty  that  these 
quantification mechanisms are working as expected.  

The key aspects to be validated are factors allowing accurate risk classification by level, adequate quantification of exposure, use of assessment techniques that 
include external factors such as economic conditions and credit status and, lastly, compliance with internal policies and regulatory provisions. Each year, the 
Risk Management Group presents a summary report on the validations to the RMC. 

The Bank’s credit risk assessment and rating systems are overseen by the Models Oversight Committee, the GRC and the RMC, and are an integral part of a 
comprehensive Bank-wide credit risk oversight framework. Along with the above-mentioned elements, the Bank documents and periodically reviews the policies, 
definitions of responsibilities, resource allocation and existing processes. 

AAsssseessssmmeenntt  ooff  EEccoonnoommiicc  CCaappiittaall  
The  assessment  of  the  Bank’s  minimum  required  economic  capital  is  based  on  the  credit  risk  assessments  of  debtors.  These  two  activities  are  therefore 
interlinked. The different models used to assess the credit risk of a given portfolio type also enable the Bank to determine the default correlation among debtors. 
This information is a critical component in the evaluation of potential losses for all portfolios carrying credit risk. Estimates of potential losses, whether expected 
or not, are based on historical loss experience, portfolio monitoring, market data and statistical modelling. Expected and unexpected losses are factors used in 
assessing the minimum required economic capital for all of the Bank’s credit portfolios. The assessment of economic capital also considers the anticipated 
potential migrations of obligors’ default risk during the remaining term of their credit commitments. The main risk factors that have an impact on economic 
capital are as follows: 

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

the obligor’s PD; 
EAD;  
LGD; 
the PD correlation among obligors; 
the residual term of credit commitments;  
the impact of economic and sector-based cycles on asset quality. 

70

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Risk Management 

SSttrreessss  TTeessttiinngg  aanndd  CCrriissiiss  SScceennaarriiooss  
The Bank carries out stress tests to evaluate its sensitivity to crisis situations in certain activity sectors and key portfolios. A global stress test methodology 
covers most business, government, and personal credit portfolios to provide the Bank with an overview of the situation. By simulating specific scenarios, these 
tests enable the Bank to measure the level of regulatory capital needed to absorb potential losses and to determine the impact on its solvency. In addition, these 
tests contribute to portfolio management as they influence the determination of concentration limits by obligor, product or business sector.  

Mortgage Loan Underwriting 
To  mitigate  the  impact  of  an  economic  slowdown  and  ensure  the  long-term  quality  of  its  portfolio,  the  Bank  uses  sound  risk  management  when  granting 
residential mortgages to confirm: (i) the obligor’s intention to meet its financial obligations, (ii) the obligor’s ability to repay its debts and (iii) the quality of the 
collateral. In addition, in accordance with the applicable rules, the Bank takes a prudent approach to client qualification by using, for example, a higher interest 
rate to mitigate the risk of short- or medium-term rate increases. 

Nonetheless, the risk of economic slowdown could adversely affect the profitability of the mortgage portfolio. In stress test analyses, the Bank considers a variety 
of scenarios to measure the impact of adverse market conditions. In such circumstances, our analyses show significantly higher  credit losses, which would 
decrease profitability and reduce the Bank’s capital ratios. 

CCrreeddiitt--GGrraannttiinngg  PPrroocceessss  
Credit-granting decisions are based first and foremost on the results of the risk assessment. Aside from a client’s solvency, credit-granting decisions are also 
influenced by factors such as available collateral, transaction compliance with policies, standards and procedures, and the Bank’s overall risk-adjusted return 
objective. Each credit-granting decision is made by authorities within the risk management teams and management who are independent of the business units 
and are at a reporting level commensurate with the size of the proposed credit transaction and the associated risk. 

Decision-making  authority  is  determined  in  compliance  with  the  delegation  of  authority  set  out  in  the  Credit  Risk  Management  Policy.  A  person  in  a  senior 
position in the organization approves credit facilities that are substantial or carry a higher risk for the Bank. The GRC approves and monitors all substantial credit 
facilities. Credit applications that exceed management’s latitudes are submitted to the Board for approval. The credit-granting process demands a high level of 
accountability from managers, who must proactively manage the credit portfolio. 

RReevviieeww  aanndd  RReenneewwaall  PPrroocceesssseess  
The Bank periodically reviews credit files. The review process enables the Bank to update information on the quality of the facilities and covers, among other 
things, risk ratings, compliance with credit conditions, and obligor behaviour. The credit risk of all obligors is reviewed at least once per year. After this periodic 
review, for on-demand or unused credit, the Bank decides whether to pursue its business relationship with the obligor and, if so, revises the credit conditions. 

RRiisskk  MMiittiiggaattiioonn  
The Bank also controls credit risk using various risk mitigation techniques. In addition to the standard practice of requiring collateral to guarantee repayment of 
the credit it grants, the Bank also uses protection mechanisms such as credit derivative financial instruments, syndication and loan assignments as well as an 
orderly reduction in the amount of credit granted. 

The most common method used to mitigate credit risk is to obtain quality collateral from obligors. Obtaining collateral cannot replace a rigorous assessment of 
an obligor’s ability to meet its financial obligations, but, beyond a certain risk threshold, it is an essential complement. Collateral is not required in all cases. It 
depends upon the level of risk presented by the obligor and the type of loan granted. However, if the level of risk to the Bank is considered high, collateral will 
likely be required. The legal validity and enforceability of any collateral obtained and the Bank’s ability to correctly and regularly measure the collateral’s value 
are critical for this mechanism to play its proper role in risk mitigation.  

The Bank has established specific requirements in its internal policies with respect to the appropriate legal documentation and assessment for the kinds of 
collateral that business units may require to guarantee the loans granted. The categories of eligible collateral and the lending value of the collateralized assets 
have also been defined by  the Bank. For the most  part,  they include the following asset categories  as well as guarantees (whether secured by collateral  or 
unsecured) and government and bank guarantees: 

inventories; 

•  accounts receivable; 
• 
•  machinery and equipment and rolling stock; 
• 
• 

residential and commercial real estate, office buildings and industrial facilities;  
cash and marketable securities. 

Portfolio Diversification and Management 
The Bank is exposed to credit risk, not only through outstanding loans and undrawn amounts of commitments to a particular obligor but also through the sectoral 
distribution  of  the  outstanding  loans  and  undrawn  amounts  and  through  the  exposure  of  its  various  credit  portfolios  to  geographical,  concentration  and 
settlement risks. 

National Bank of Canada 

71

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Risk Management 

The  Bank’s  approach  to  controlling  these  diverse  risks  begins  with  a  diversification  of  exposures.  Measures  designed  to  maintain  a  healthy  degree  of 
diversification of credit risk in its portfolios are set out in the Bank’s policies, standards and procedures. These instructions are mainly reflected in the application 
of various exposure limits: credit concentration limits by counterparty and credit concentration limits by business sector, country, region, product, and type of 
financial instrument. These limits are determined based on the Bank’s credit risk appetite framework and are reviewed periodically. Compliance with these limits, 
particularly exceptions, is monitored through periodic reports submitted by the Risk Management Group’s officers to the Board. 

Continuous analyses are performed in order to anticipate problems with a sector or obligor before they materialize as defaulted payments. 

Other Risk Mitigation Methods 
Credit  risk  mitigation  measures  for  transactions  in  derivative  financial  instruments,  which  are  regularly  used  by  the  Bank,  are  described  in  detail  in  the 
Counterparty Risk section. 

Credit Derivative Financial Instruments and Financial Guarantee Contracts 
The Bank also reduces credit risk by using the protection provided by credit derivative financial instruments such as credit default swaps. When the Bank acquires 
credit protection, it pays a premium on the swap to the counterparty in exchange for the counterparty’s commitment to pay if the underlying entity defaults or 
another event involving the underlying entity and covered by the legal agreement occurs. Since, like obligors, providers of credit protection must receive a default 
risk rating, the Bank’s standards set out all the criteria under which a counterparty may be judged eligible to mitigate the Bank’s credit risk. The Bank may also 
reduce its credit risk by entering into financial guarantee contracts whereby a guarantor indemnifies the Bank for a loss resulting from an obligor failing to make 
a payment when due in accordance with the contractual terms of a debt instrument. 

Loan Syndication 
The Bank has developed specific instructions on the appropriate objectives, responsibilities and documentation requirements for loan syndication. 

FFoollllooww--UUpp  ooff  MMoonniittoorreedd  AAccccoouunnttss  aanndd  RReeccoovveerryy  
Credit granted and obligors are monitored on an ongoing basis and in a manner commensurate with the related risk. Loan portfolio managers use an array of 
intervention methods to conduct a particularly rigorous follow-up on files that show a high risk of default. When loans continue to deteriorate and there is an 
increase in risk to the point where monitoring has to be increased, a group specialized in managing problem accounts steps in to maximize collection of the 
disbursed amounts and tailor strategies to these accounts. 

In these cases, loan portfolio managers prepare and submit, to the credit department, a detailed monitoring report (watchlist) each month to track the status of 
at-risk obligors and the corrective measures undertaken. The management of each department concerned performs follow-ups on the reports, and each quarter 
a credit monitoring committee meets to review the action plans and monitoring reports of obligors that have commitments of $3 million or more. The authority 
to approve allowances for credit losses is attributed using limits delegated on the basis of hierarchical level under the Credit Risk Management Policy. 

Information on the recognition of impaired loans and allowances for credit losses is presented in Notes 1 and 7 to the consolidated financial statements. 

Forbearance and Restructuring  
Situations where a business or retail obligor begin showing clear signs of potential insolvency are managed on a case-by-case basis and require the use of 
judgment. The Loan Work Out Policy sets out the principles applicable in such situations to guide loan restructuring decisions and identify situations where 
distressed  restructuring  applies.  A  distressed  restructuring  situation  occurs  when  the  Bank,  for  economic  or  legal  reasons  related  to  the  obligor’s  financial 
difficulties, grants the obligor a special concession that is contrary to the Bank's policies. Such concessions could include a lower interest rate, waiver of principal 
and extension of the maturity date. 

The Bank has established a management framework for commercial and corporate obligors that represent higher-than-normal risk of default. It outlines the roles 
and responsibilities of loan portfolio managers with respect to managing high-risk accounts and the responsibilities of the Work Out units and other participants 
in  the  process.  Lastly,  the  Credit  Risk  Management  Policy  and  a  management  framework  are  used  to  determine  the  authorization  limits  for  distressed 
restructuring situations. During fiscal years 2019 and 2018, the amount of distressed loan restructurings was not significant. 

CCoouunntteerrppaarrttyy  RRiisskk  AAsssseessssmmeenntt  
Counterparty risk is a credit risk that the Bank incurs on various types of transactions involving financial instruments. The most significant risks are those it faces 
when it trades derivative financial instruments with counterparties on the over-the-counter market or when it purchases securities under reverse repurchase 
agreements or sells securities under repurchase agreements. Securities lending transactions and securities brokerage activities involving derivative financial 
instruments are also sources of counterparty risk. Note 16 to the consolidated financial statements provides a complete description of the credit risk for derivative 
financial instruments by type of traded product.  

72

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
  
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Risk Management 

The Risk Management Group has developed models by broad category of financial instrument through which it applies an advanced methodology for calculating 
the Bank’s credit risk exposure and economic capital. The exposures are subject to limits. These two elements are established based on the potential volatility 
of the underlying assets until expiration of the contract.  

Counterparty  obligations  related  to  the  trading  of  contracts  on  derivative  financial  instruments,  securities  lending  transactions  and  reverse  repurchase 
agreements are frequently subject to credit risk mitigation measures. The mitigation techniques are somewhat different from those used for loans and advances 
and depend on the nature of the instrument or the type of contract traded. The most widely used measure is the signing of master agreements: the International 
Swaps & Derivatives Association, Inc. (ISDA) master agreement, the Global Master Repurchase Agreement (GMRA) and the Global Master Securities Lending 
Agreement (GMSLA). These agreements make it possible, in the event of default, insolvency or bankruptcy of one of the contracting parties, to apply full netting 
of the gross amounts of the market values for each of the transactions covered by the agreement in force at the time of default. The amount of the final settlement 
is therefore the net balance of gains and losses on each transaction, which reduces exposure when a counterparty defaults. The Bank’s policies require that an 
ISDA, GMRA, or GMSLA agreement be signed with most trading counterparties to derivatives, foreign exchange forward contracts, securities lending transactions 
and reverse repurchase agreements. 

Another mechanism for reducing credit risk on derivatives and foreign exchange forward contracts complements the ISDA master agreement in many cases and 
provides the Bank and its counterparty (or either of the parties, if need be) with the right to request collateral from the counterparty when the net balance of 
gains  and losses on each transaction exceeds a threshold defined in the agreement. These agreements, also known  as  Credit Support Annexes (CSAs), are 
common between financial institutions active in international financial markets since they limit credit risk while providing traders with additional flexibility to 
continue trading with the counterparty. The Bank often uses this type of legal documentation in transactions with financial institutions and governments. For 
business transactions, the Bank prefers to use internal mechanisms set out in the credit agreements. The Bank’s internal policies set the conditions governing 
the implementation of such mitigation methods.   

Requiring collateral as part of a securities lending transaction or reverse repurchase agreement is not solely the result of an internal credit decision. In fact, it is 
a mandatory market practice imposed by self-regulating organizations in the financial services sector such as the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization 
of Canada.  

The  Bank  also  has  policies  and  guidelines  governing  its  own  collateral  pledged  to  counterparties,  given  the  potential  impact  of  such  asset  transfers  on  its 
liquidity. In accordance with its Liquidity, Funding & Pledging Policy, the Bank conducts simulations of potential counterparty collateral claims under the CSAs 
in effect in the event of a Bank downgrade or other unlikely occurrences. The simulations are based on various Bank downgrading scenarios or market value 
fluctuations of transactions covered by CSAs. 

The Bank has identified circumstances in which it is likely to be exposed to wrong-way risk, which is generally associated with exposure to counterparty risk and 
characterized by higher risk for the Bank if a counterparty’s PD increases (unfavourable positive correlation). A common wrong-way risk arises from the trading 
of derivatives contracts with counterparties where the underlying assets may include equity securities issued by those counterparties. 

AAsssseessssmmeenntt  ooff  SSeettttlleemmeenntt  RRiisskk  
Settlement risk potentially arises from transactions that feature reciprocal delivery of cash or securities between the Bank and a counterparty. Foreign exchange 
contracts are an example of transactions that can generate significant levels of settlement risk. However, the implementation of multilateral settlement systems 
that allow settlement netting among participating institutions has contributed greatly to reducing the risks associated with the settlement of foreign exchange 
transactions among banks. The Bank also uses financial intermediaries to gain access to established clearing houses in order to minimize settlement risk for 
certain financial derivative transactions. In some cases, the Bank may have direct access to established clearing houses for settling financial transactions such 
as repurchase agreements or reverse repurchase agreements. In addition, certain derivative financial instruments traded over the counter are settled directly or 
indirectly by central counterparties. For additional information, see the table that presents notional amounts in Note 16 to the consolidated financial statements. 

There are several other types of transactions that may generate settlement risk, in particular the use of certain electronic fund transfer services. This risk refers 
to  the  possibility  that  the  Bank  may  make  a  payment  or  settlement  on  a  transaction  without  receiving  the  amount  owed  by  the  counterparty,  and  with  no 
opportunity to recover the funds delivered (irrevocable settlement). 

The ultimate means for completely eliminating such a risk is for the  Bank to complete no payments  or  settlements before receiving the funds due from the 
counterparty. Such an approach cannot, however, be used systematically. For several electronic payment services, the Bank is able to implement mechanisms 
that allow it to make its transfers revocable or to debit the counterparty in the amount of the settlements before it makes its own transfer. On the other hand, the 
nature of transactions in financial instruments makes it impossible for such practices to be widely used. For example, on foreign exchange transactions involving 
a currency other than the U.S. dollar, time zone differentials impose strict payment schedules on the parties. The Bank cannot unduly postpone a settlement 
without facing significant penalties, due to the large size of amounts involved.  

The most effective way for the Bank to control settlement risks, both for financial market transactions and irrevocable transfers, is to impose internal risk limits 
based on the counterparty’s ability to pay.  

National Bank of Canada 

73

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Risk Management 

The amounts shown in the following tables represent the Bank’s maximum exposure to credit risk as at the financial reporting date without taking into account 
any collateral held or any other credit enhancements. These amounts do not take into account allowances for credit losses nor amounts pledged as collateral. 
The tables also exclude equity securities.  

MMaaxxiimmuumm  CCrreeddiitt  RRiisskk  EExxppoossuurree  UUnnddeerr  tthhee  BBaasseell  AAsssseett  CCaatteeggoorriieess**  

(millions of Canadian dollars) 

AAss  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199  

RReettaaiill  
  Residential mortgage 
  Qualifying revolving retail 
  Other retail 

NNoonn--rreettaaiill  
  Corporate 
  Sovereign 
  Financial institutions 

TTrraaddiinngg  ppoorrttffoolliioo  
SSeeccuurriittiizzaattiioonn  
TToottaall  ––  GGrroossss  ccrreeddiitt  rriisskk  

SSttaannddaarrddiizzeedd  AApppprrooaacchh  
AAIIRRBB  AApppprrooaacchh  
TToottaall  ––  GGrroossss  ccrreeddiitt  rriisskk  

(millions of Canadian dollars) 

RReettaaiill  
  Residential mortgage 
  Qualifying revolving retail 
  Other retail 

NNoonn--rreettaaiill  
  Corporate 
  Sovereign 
  Financial institutions 

TTrraaddiinngg  ppoorrttffoolliioo  
SSeeccuurriittiizzaattiioonn  
TToottaall  ––  GGrroossss  ccrreeddiitt  rriisskk  

SSttaannddaarrddiizzeedd  AApppprrooaacchh  
AAIIRRBB  AApppprrooaacchh  
TToottaall  ––  GGrroossss  ccrreeddiitt  rriisskk  

DDrraawwnn  

UUnnddrraawwnn  
ccoommmmiittmmeennttss  

RReeppoo--ssttyyllee  
ttrraannssaaccttiioonnss(1)  

DDeerriivvaattiivvee  
ffiinnaanncciiaall  
iinnssttrruummeennttss(2)  

OOtthheerr  
ooffff--bbaallaannccee--  
sshheeeett  iitteemmss(3)  

5500,,332288
22,,554400
1144,,225588
6677,,112266

5566,,000022
3311,,330088
55,,220000
9922,,551100
−−
11,,116666
116600,,880022

1177,,116666
114433,,663366
116600,,880022

88,,881122
33,,004466
11,,991111
1133,,776699

2200,,552277
55,,222222
442255
2266,,117744
−−
−−
3399,,994433

660011
3399,,334422
3399,,994433

−−
−−
−−
−−

2211,,552244
3366,,220088
9977,,442233
115555,,115555
−−
−−
115555,,115555

2288,,557711
112266,,558844
115555,,115555

−− 
−− 
−− 
−− 

11 
119900 
11,,996666 
22,,115577 
1122,,001155 
−− 
1144,,117722 

11,,995511 
1122,,222211 
1144,,117722 

−−
−−
2200
2200

44,,110033
114488
662299
44,,888800
−−
33,,559988
88,,449988

111199
88,,337799
88,,449988

TToottaall  

5599,,114400  
55,,558866  
1166,,118899  
8800,,991155  

110022,,115577  
7733,,007766  
110055,,664433  
228800,,887766  
1122,,001155  
44,,776644  
337788,,557700  

4488,,440088  
333300,,116622  
337788,,557700  

As at October 31, 2018 

Drawn  

Undrawn 
commitments  

Repo-style 
transactions(1) 

Derivative 
financial 
instruments(2) 

Other 
off-balance- 
sheet items(3) 

45,926
2,829
15,461
64,216

50,750
27,131
4,107
81,988
−
1,474
147,678

13,152
134,526
147,678

8,287
3,447
1,589
13,323

17,588
5,234
303
23,125
−
−
36,448

253
36,195
36,448

−
−
−
−

16,657
41,364
75,839
133,860
−
−
133,860

14,577
119,283
133,860

− 
− 
− 
− 

29 
47 
4,122 
4,198 
9,620 
− 
13,818 

3,965 
9,853 
13,818 

−
−
14
14

3,503
139
738
4,380
−
3,272
7,666

356
7,310
7,666

Total 

54,213 
6,276 
17,064 
77,553 

88,527 
73,915 
85,109 
247,551 
9,620 
4,746 
339,470 

32,303 
307,167 
339,470 

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 

Securities purchased under reverse repurchase agreements and sold under repurchase agreements as well as securities loaned and borrowed. 
Exposure presented using the SA-CCR method since the first quarter of 2019.  
Letters of guarantee, documentary letters of credit and securitized assets that represent the Bank’s commitment to make payments in the event that a client cannot meet its financial obligations 
to third parties.  

74

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
   
  
    
  
    
  
  
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
    
  
 
 
 
    
    
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
  
    
  
    
  
  
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
    
  
 
 
 
 
  
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Risk Management 

MMaarrkkeett  RRiisskk    

Market risk is the risk of losses arising from movements in market prices. Market risk comes from a number of factors, particularly changes to market variables 
such as interest rates, exchange rates, equity prices, commodity prices and implied volatilities. The Bank is exposed to market risk through its participation in 
trading, investment and asset/liability management activities. Trading activities involve taking positions, particularly on various instruments such as bonds, 
shares, currencies, commodities or derivative financial instruments. The Bank is exposed to non-trading market risk through its asset/liability management and 
investment portfolios. 

The trading portfolios include positions in financial instruments and commodities held either with trading intent or to hedge other elements of the trading book. 
Positions  held  with  trading  intent  are  those  held  for  short-term  resale  and/or  with  the  intent  of  taking  advantage  of  actual  or  expected  short-term  price 
movements or  to  lock in arbitrage profits. These portfolios target one of the following  objectives: market making, liquidating positions for clients or selling 
financial products to clients.  

Non-trading portfolios include financial  instruments intended to be  held to maturity as well  as those held for daily  cash management or  for the purpose of 
maintaining targeted returns or ensuring asset and liability management.  

GGoovveerrnnaannccee  
A market risk management policy governs global market risk management across the Bank’s units and subsidiaries that are exposed to this type of risk. It is 
approved by the GRC. The policy sets out the framework and principles for managing market risk; defines risk measures, control and monitoring activities; sets 
limits; and reports on breaches. 

The  Financial  Markets  Risk  Committee  oversees  all  Financial  Markets  segment  risks  that  could  adversely  affect  the  Bank's  results,  liquidity,  or  capital.  This 
committee also oversees the Financial Markets segment’s risk framework to ensure that controls are in place to contain risk in accordance with the Bank's risk 
appetite framework.  

Market risk limits ensure the link and coherence between the Bank’s market risk appetite targets and the day-to-day market risk management by all parties 
involved, notably senior management, business lines and market risk sector in its independent control function. The Bank's monitoring and reporting process 
consists of comparing market risk exposure to alert levels and market risk limits determined for all limit authorization and approval levels. 

AAsssseessssiinngg  MMaarrkkeett  RRiisskk  
The Risk Management Group uses a variety of risk measures to estimate the size of potential losses under more or less severe scenarios, and using both short-
term and long-term time horizons. For short-term horizons, the Bank’s risk measures include Value-at-Risk (VaR), Stressed VaR (SVaR), and sensitivity metrics. 
For long-term horizons or sudden significant market moves, including those due to a lack of market liquidity, the risk measures include stress testing across an 
extensive range of scenarios.  

VaR and SVaR Models 
VaR is a statistical measure of risk that is used to quantify market risks by product and by risk type as well as aggregate risk by portfolio, for the Bank as a whole. 
VaR is defined as the maximum loss at a specific confidence level over a certain horizon under normal market conditions. The VaR method has the advantage of 
providing a uniform measurement of financial instrument-related market risks based on a single statistical confidence level and time horizon.  

For VaR, the Bank uses a historical price distribution to compute the probable loss levels at the 99% confidence level, using a two-year history of daily time series 
of risk factor changes. VaR is the maximum daily loss the Bank could incur, in 99 cases out of 100, in a given portfolio. In other words, the loss could exceed that 
amount in only one out of 100 cases.   

The trading VaR is measured by assuming a holding period of one day for ongoing market risk management and a 10-day holding period for regulatory capital 
purposes. VaR is calculated on a daily basis both for major classes of financial instruments (including derivative financial instruments) and all trading portfolios 
in the Financial Markets segment and the Bank's Global Funding and Treasury Group.  

In addition to the one-day trading VaR, the Bank calculates a trading SVaR, which is a statistical measure of risk that replicates the VaR calculation method but 
uses, instead of a two-year history of risk factor changes, a 12-month data period corresponding to a continuous period of significant financial stress that is 
relevant in terms of the Bank’s portfolios.  

National Bank of Canada 

75

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Risk Management 

VaR methodology techniques are well suited to measure risks under normal market conditions. VaR metrics are most appropriate as a risk measure for trading 
positions in liquid financial markets. However, there are limitations in measuring risks with this method when extreme and sudden market risk events occur, 
since they are likely to underestimate the Bank’s market risk. VaR methodology limitations include the following: 

  past changes in market risk factors may not always produce accurate predictions of the distribution and correlations of future market movements; 
 
 

a VaR with a daily time horizon does not fully capture the market risk of positions that cannot be liquidated or hedged within one day; 
the market risk factor historical database used for VaR calculation may not reflect potential losses that could occur under unusual market conditions (e.g., 
periods of extreme illiquidity) relative to the historical period used for VaR estimates; 
the use of a 99% VaR confidence level does not reflect the extent of potential losses beyond that percentile. 

 

Given the limitations of VaR, for the Bank it represents only one component in its risk management oversight, which also incorporates, among other measures, 
stress testing, sensitivity analysis, concentration and liquidity limits and analysis.  

The Bank also conducts backtesting of the VaR model. It consists of comparing the profits and losses to the statistical VaR measure. Backtesting is essential to 
verifying the VaR model’s capacity to adequately forecast the maximum risk of market losses and thus validate, retroactively, the quality and accuracy of the 
results obtained using the model. If the backtesting results present material discrepancies, the VaR model could be revised in accordance with the Bank’s model 
risk management framework. 

CCoonnttrroolllliinngg  MMaarrkkeett  RRiisskk  
Outstanding VaR exposure is monitored daily in relation to established limits for each type of market risk, portfolio and business unit. The RMC reviews VaR 
results and other risk measure results each quarter, including any breaches of the limits set out in the policy.  

The Bank also uses economic capital for market risk as an indicator for risk appetite and limits setting. This indicator measures the amount of capital that is 
required to absorb unexpected losses due to market risk events over a one-year horizon and with a determined confidence level. For additional information on 
economic capital, see the Capital Management section of this MD&A. 

76

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Risk Management 

The following tables provide a breakdown of the Bank’s Consolidated Balance Sheet into assets and liabilities by those that carry market risk and those that do 
not  carry  market  risk,  distinguishing  between  trading  positions  whose  main  risk  measures  are  VaR  and  SVaR  and  non-trading  positions  that  use  other  risk 
measures. 

RReeccoonncciilliiaattiioonn  ooff  MMaarrkkeett  RRiisskk  WWiitthh  CCoonnssoolliiddaatteedd  BBaallaannccee  SShheeeett  IItteemmss  

(millions of Canadian dollars) 

AAss  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199   

BBaallaannccee  
sshheeeett    

TTrraaddiinngg(1)    

NNoonn--TTrraaddiinngg(2)    

NNoott  ssuubbjjeecctt  ttoo  
mmaarrkkeett  rriisskk    

NNoonn--ttrraaddeedd  rriisskk  
pprriimmaarryy  rriisskk  sseennssiittiivviittyy  

MMaarrkkeett  rriisskk  mmeeaassuurreess     

AAsssseettss  
   Cash and deposits with financial institutions 
  Securities 
    At fair value through profit or loss 
    At fair value through other comprehensive income 
    At amortized cost 
  Securities purchased under reverse repurchase 
    agreements and securities borrowed 
  Loans and acceptances, net of allowances 
  Derivative financial instruments 
  Defined benefit asset 
  Other 

LLiiaabbiilliittiieess  
  Deposits 
  Acceptances 
  Obligations related to securities sold short 
  Obligations related to securities sold under repurchase 
    agreements and securities loaned 
  Derivative financial instruments 
  Liabilities related to transferred receivables 
  Defined benefit liability 
  Other 
  Subordinated debt 

1133,,669988

6611,,882233
1100,,664488
99,,775555

1177,,772233
115533,,225511
88,,112299
3388
66,,339933
228811,,445588

118899,,556666
66,,889933
1122,,884499

2211,,990000
66,,885522
2211,,331122
337744
55,,880033
777733
226666,,332222

557799

1122,,660099

551100    

IInntteerreesstt  rraattee(3)   

5588,,117700
−−
−−

−−
66,,006600
77,,113344
−−
−−
7711,,994433

99,,886699
−−
1122,,884499

−−
66,,112233
55,,116655
−−
2244
−−
3344,,003300

33,,665533
1100,,664488
99,,775555

1177,,772233
114477,,119911
999955
3388
−−
220022,,661122

117799,,669977
66,,889933
−−

2211,,990000
772299
1166,,114477
337744
991111
777733
222277,,442244

IInntteerreesstt  rraattee(3)  aanndd  eeqquuiittyy(4)   
IInntteerreesstt  rraattee(3)  aanndd  eeqquuiittyy(5)   
IInntteerreesstt  rraattee(3)   

IInntteerreesstt  rraattee(3)(6)   
IInntteerreesstt  rraattee(3)   
IInntteerreesstt  rraattee(7) aanndd  eexxcchhaannggee  rraattee(7)   
OOtthheerr(8)   

IInntteerreesstt  rraattee(3)   
IInntteerreesstt  rraattee(3)   

IInntteerreesstt  rraattee(3)(6)   
IInntteerreesstt  rraattee(7) aanndd  eexxcchhaannggee  rraattee(7)   
IInntteerreesstt  rraattee(3)   
OOtthheerr(8)   
IInntteerreesstt  rraattee(3)   
IInntteerreesstt  rraattee(3)   

−−     
−−     
−−     

−−     
−−     
−−     
−−     
66,,339933     
66,,990033     

−−     
−−     
−−     

−−     
−−     
−−     
−−     
44,,886688     
−−     
44,,886688     

(1) 

(2) 
(3) 

(4) 
(5) 
(6) 

(7) 
(8) 

Trading positions whose risk measures are VaR and SVaR. For additional information, see the tables on the following pages that show the VaR and SVaR distributions of the trading portfolios 
by risk category as well as their correlation effect.  
Non-trading positions that use other risk measures.  
For additional information, see the tables on the following pages that show the VaR and SVaR distributions of the trading portfolios by risk category and their correlation effect as well as the 
interest rate sensitivity tables.  
For additional information, see Note 6 to the consolidated financial statements. 
The fair value of equity securities designated at fair value through other comprehensive income is presented in Notes 3 and 6 to the consolidated financial statements.  
These instruments are recorded at amortized cost and are subject to credit risk for capital management purposes. For trading-related transactions with maturities of more than one day, interest 
rate risk is included in the VaR and SVaR measures.  
For additional information, see Notes 16 and 17 to the consolidated financial statements. 
For additional information, see Note 23 to the consolidated financial statements. 

National Bank of Canada 

77

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
   
   
 
 
   
 
     
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
   
     
  
 
 
  
 
 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
   
  
 
  
  
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Risk Management 

(millions of Canadian dollars) 

AAsssseettss  
   Cash and deposits with financial institutions 
  Securities 
    At fair value through profit or loss 
    At fair value through other comprehensive income 
    At amortized cost 
  Securities purchased under reverse repurchase  
    agreements and securities borrowed 
  Loans and acceptances, net of allowances 
  Derivative financial instruments 
  Defined benefit asset 
  Other 

LLiiaabbiilliittiieess  
  Deposits 
  Acceptances 
  Obligations related to securities sold short 
  Obligations related to securities sold under repurchase 
    agreements and securities loaned 
  Derivative financial instruments 
  Liabilities related to transferred receivables 
  Defined benefit liability 
  Other 
  Subordinated debt 

Balance 
sheet  

Trading(1)  

Non-trading(2)  

Not subject to 
market risk  

Non-traded risk primary 
risk sensitivity 

Market risk measures    

As at October 31, 2018  

12,756

55,817
5,668
8,298

18,159
146,082
8,608
64
7,019
262,471

170,830
6,801
17,780

19,998
6,036
20,100
186
5,638
747
248,116

226

12,269

261   

Interest rate(3)  

51,575
−
−

−
5,417
7,625
−
−
64,843

7,187
−
17,780

−
4,807
3,733
−
21
−
33,528

4,242
5,668
8,298

18,159
140,665
983
64
−
190,348

163,643
6,801
−

19,998
1,229
16,367
186
910
747
209,881

Interest rate(3) and equity(4)  
Interest rate(3) and equity(5)  
Interest rate(3)  

Interest rate(3)(6)  
Interest rate(3)  
Interest rate(7) and exchange rate(7)  
Other(8)  

Interest rate(3)  
Interest rate(3)  

Interest rate(3)(6)  
Interest rate(7) and exchange rate(7)  
Interest rate(3)  
Other(8)  
Interest rate(3)  
Interest rate(3)  

−   
−   
−   

−   
−   
−   
−   
7,019   
7,280   

−   
−   
−   

−   
−   
−   
−   
4,707   
−   
4,707   

(1) 

(2) 
(3) 

(4) 
(5) 
(6) 

(7) 
(8) 

Trading positions whose risk measures are VaR and SVaR. For additional information, see the tables on the following pages that show the VaR and SVaR distributions of the trading portfolios 
by risk category as well as their correlation effect. 
Non-trading positions that use other risk measures.  
For additional information, see the tables on the following pages that show the VaR and SVaR distributions of the trading portfolios by risk category and their correlation effect as well as the 
interest rate sensitivity tables.  
For additional information, see Notes 6 to the consolidated financial statements. 
The fair value of equity securities designated at fair value through other comprehensive income is presented in Notes 3 and 6 to the consolidated financial statements. 
These instruments are recorded at amortized cost and are subject to credit risk for capital management purposes. For trading-related transactions with maturities of more than one day, 
interest rate risk is included in the VaR and SVaR measures.  
For additional information, see Notes 16 and 17 to the consolidated financial statements.  
For additional information, see Note 23 to the consolidated financial statements.   

TTrraaddiinngg  AAccttiivviittiieess 
The first table below shows the VaR distribution of trading portfolios by risk category as well as their correlation effect. The second table on the next page shows 
the SVaR distribution, i.e., the VaR of the Bank’s current portfolios obtained following the calibration of risk factors over a 12-month stress period.  

VVaaRR  ooff  TTrraaddiinngg  PPoorrttffoolliiooss  bbyy  RRiisskk  CCaatteeggoorryy(1)**  

Year ended October 31 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Interest rate 
Foreign exchange 
Equity 
Commodity 
Correlation effect(2) 
TToottaall  ttrraaddiinngg  VVaaRR  

LLooww  

((44..00)) 
((00..44)) 
((22..88)) 
((00..55)) 
nn..mm.. 
((33..88)) 

HHiigghh  

AAvveerraaggee  

22001199  
PPeerriioodd  eenndd  

((77..11))
((11..88))
((66..00))
((11..55))
nn..mm..
((88..99))

((55..33))
((00..88))
((33..88))
((11..00))
44..88
((66..11))

((44..44))  
((11..33))  
((33..88))  
((11..22))  
44..44  
((66..33))  

Low 

(3.0) 
(0.5) 
(1.6) 
(0.5) 
n.m. 
(3.1) 

High 

(5.9) 
(2.7) 
(5.8) 
(1.7) 
n.m. 
(7.4) 

Average 

2018 
Period end 

(4.1) 
(1.2) 
(3.5) 
(1.0) 
4.6 
(5.2) 

(5.9) 
(1.4) 
(4.7) 
(0.9) 
7.0 
(5.9) 

n.m.  Computation of a correlation effect for the high and low is not meaningful, as highs and lows may occur on different days and be attributable to different types of risk. 
(1) 
(2) 

Amounts are presented on a pre-tax basis and represent one-day VaR using a 99% confidence level.  
The total trading VaR is less than the sum of the individual risk factor VaR results due to the correlation effect.  

78

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Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Risk Management 

SSVVaaRR  ooff  TTrraaddiinngg  PPoorrttffoolliiooss  bbyy  RRiisskk  CCaatteeggoorryy(1)**  

Year ended October 31 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Interest rate 
Foreign exchange 
Equity 
Commodity 
Correlation effect(2) 
TToottaall  ttrraaddiinngg  SSVVaaRR  

LLooww  

((1111..88)) 
((00..66)) 
((44..55)) 
((11..11)) 
nn..mm.. 
((99..00)) 

HHiigghh  

AAvveerraaggee  

22001199  
PPeerriioodd  eenndd  

((2266..66))
((44..11))
((1144..44))
((44..00))
nn..mm..
((1177..88))

((1166..44))
((11..44))
((77..33))
((22..11))
1144..22
((1133..00))

((1155..11))  
((22..00))  
((88..99))  
((22..77))  
1133..44  
((1155..33))  

Low 

(7.5) 
(0.5) 
(1.2) 
(0.4) 
n.m. 
(4.0) 

High 

Average 

2018 
Period end 

(15.7) 
(4.1) 
(9.3) 
(2.9) 
n.m. 
(17.8) 

(11.8) 
(1.5) 
(3.5) 
(1.8) 
8.9 
(9.7) 

(13.6) 
(2.4) 
(9.3) 
(2.2) 
17.7 
(9.8) 

n.m.  Computation of a correlation effect for the high and low is not meaningful, as highs and lows may occur on different days and be attributable to different types of risk. 
(1) 
(2) 

Amounts are presented on a pre-tax basis and represent one-day SVaR using a 99% confidence level.  
The total trading SVaR is less than the sum of the individual risk factor SVaR results due to the correlation effect. 

The average total trading VaR stood at $6.1 million for fiscal 2019, up from $5.2 million in fiscal 2018. The average total trading SVaR was also up, rising from 
$9.7 million in fiscal 2018 to $13.0 million in fiscal 2019. These increases were essentially due to higher interest rate risk and higher equity risk. 

The revenues generated by trading activities are compared with VaR as a backtesting assessment of the appropriateness of this risk measure as well as the 
financial performance of trading activities relative to the risk undertaken.  

The table below shows daily trading and underwriting revenues and VaR. Daily trading and underwriting revenues were positive on 97% of the days for the year 
ended October 31, 2019. Daily trading and underwriting losses in excess of $1 million were recorded on 4 days. None of these losses exceeded the VaR. 

DDaaiillyy  TTrraaddiinngg    aanndd  UUnnddeerrwwrriittiinngg  RReevveennuueess  
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

25

20

15

10

5

0

(5)

(10)

(15)

8
1
.
v
o
N

8
1
.
c
e
D

9
1
.
n
a
J

9
1
.
b
e
F

9
1
.
r
a
M

9
1
.
r
p
A

9
1
y
a
M

9
1
e
n
u
J

9
1
y
l
u
J

9
1
.
g
u
A

9
1
.
t
p
e
S

9
1
.
t
c
O

  Daily trading and underwriting revenues
  VaR

National Bank of Canada 

79

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
  
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Risk Management 

CCrriissiiss  SScceennaarriiooss  
A crisis scenario is a risk management technique that consists of estimating potential losses under abnormal market conditions and risk factor movements. This 
technique enhances transparency by exploring a range of serious but plausible events.  

These crises scenarios simulate the results that the portfolios would generate if the extreme scenarios in question were to occur. The Bank’s stress testing 
framework, which is to all positions generating market risk currently comprises the following range of different stress test scenarios: 

 
 

 

sharp parallel increases/decreases in interest rates; non-parallel movements (flattening and steepening) and increases/decreases in credit spreads; 
sharp stock market crash coupled with a significant increase in volatility; increase in stock prices associated with less volatility; increase in the volatility of 
the term structure coupled with a decrease in stock prices; 
significant  increases/decreases  in  commodity  prices  coupled  with  increases/decreases  in  volatility;  short-term  and  long-term  increases/decreases  in 
commodity prices; 

  depreciation/appreciation of the U.S. dollar and of other currencies relative to the Canadian dollar.   

SSttrruuccttuurraall  IInntteerreesstt  RRaattee  RRiisskk 
As part of its core banking activities, such as lending and deposit taking, the Bank is exposed to interest rate risk. Interest rate risk is the potential negative 
impact of interest rate fluctuations on the Bank’s annual net interest income and economic value of equity. Activities related to hedging, investments and term 
funding are also exposed to structural interest rate risk. The Bank’s main exposure to interest rate risk stems from a variety of sources: 

yield curve risk, which refers to changes in the level, slope and shape of the yield curve; 
repricing risk, which arises from timing differences in the maturity and repricing of on- and off-balance-sheet items; 

 
 
  options risk, either implicit (e.g., prepayment of mortgage loans) or explicit (e.g., capped mortgages and rate guarantees) in balance sheet products; 
  basis risk that is caused by imperfect correlation between different yield curves. 

The Bank’s exposure to structural interest rate risk is assessed and controlled mostly through the impact of stress scenarios and market shocks on the economic 
value of the Bank’s equity and on 12-month net interest income projections. These metrics are based on cash flow projections prepared using a number of 
assumptions. Specifically, the Bank has developed key assumptions on loan prepayment levels, deposit redemptions, and the behaviour of customers that were 
granted rate guarantees. These specific assumptions were developed based on historical analyses and are reviewed frequently. 

Funds transfer pricing is a process by which the Bank’s business units are charged or paid according to their use or supply of funding. Through this mechanism, 
all funding activities as well as the interest rate risk and liquidity risk associated with those activities are centralized in the Global Funding and Treasury Group.  

Active management of structural interest rate risk can significantly enhance the Bank’s profitability and add to shareholder value. The Bank’s goal is to maximize 
its economic value of equity and annual net interest income considering the Bank’s risk appetite. This has to be accomplished within prescribed risk limits and 
is done primarily by implementing a policy framework approved by the Board, which establishes a risk tolerance threshold, monitoring structures controlled by 
the various committees, risk indicators, reporting procedures, delegation of responsibilities and segregation of duties. The Bank also prepares an annual funding 
plan that incorporates the expected growth of assets and liabilities. 

Regulatory Context 
On May 30, 2019, OSFI released a revised version of its B-12 guideline, Interest Rate Risk Management. The guideline outlines OSFI’s expectations regarding 
the  management  of  Interest  Rate  Risk  in  the  Banking  Book  (IRRBB)  in  areas  such  as  governance  processes,  risk  measurement,  development  of  stress  test 
scenarios as well as key behavioural and modelling assumptions. D-SIBs will have to apply this revised guideline as of January 1, 2020.  

Governance 
Management of the Bank’s structural interest rate risk is mandated to the Global Funding and Treasury Group. In this role, the executives and personnel of this 
group are responsible for the day-to-day management of the risks inherent to structural interest rate risk hedging decisions and operations. They act as the 
primary effective challenge function with respect to the execution of these activities. The Office of the President approves and endorses the structural interest 
rate  exposure  and  strategies  on  the  recommendation  of  the  Global  Funding  and  Treasury  Group.  The  Risk  Management  Group  is  responsible  for  assessing 
structural interest rate risk, monitoring activities, and ensuring compliance with the structural interest rate risk policy. The Risk Management Group ensures that 
an  appropriate  risk  management  framework  is  in  place  and  ensures  compliance  with  the  risk  appetite  framework  and  policy.  Structural  interest  rate  risk 
supervision is mainly provided by the Financial Markets Risk Committee. This committee reviews exposure to structural interest rate risk, the use of limits, and 
changes made to assumptions. 

80

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Risk Management 

Stress Testing and Crisis Scenarios 
Stress tests are performed on a regular basis to assess the impact of various scenarios on annual net interest income and on the economic value of equity in 
order to guide the management of structural interest rate risk. Crisis scenarios are performed where the yield curve level, slope and shape are shocked. Yield 
curve basis and volatility scenarios are also performed. All risk factors mentioned above are covered by specific scenarios and have Board-approved or GRC-
approved risk limits.  

Dynamic simulation is also used to project the Bank’s future net interest income, future economic value and future structural interest rate risk exposure. These 
simulations project cash flows of assets, liabilities and off-balance-sheet products over a given investment horizon. Given their dynamic nature, they encompass 
assumptions pertaining to changes in volume, client term preference, prepayments of deposits and loans, and the yield curve.  

The  following  tables  present  the  potential  before-tax  impact  of  an  immediate  and  sustained  100-basis-point  increase  or  decrease  in  interest  rates  on  the 
economic value of equity and on the net interest income of the non-trading portfolios for the next 12 months, assuming no further hedging is undertaken. 

IInntteerreesstt  RRaattee  SSeennssiittiivviittyy  ––  NNoonn--TTrraaddiinngg  AAccttiivviittiieess  ((BBeeffoorree  TTaaxx))**  

As at October 31 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

IImmppaacctt  oonn  eeqquuiittyy  
100-basis-point increase in the interest rate 
100-basis-point decrease in the interest rate 

IImmppaacctt  oonn  nneett  iinntteerreesstt  iinnccoommee  
100-basis-point increase in the interest rate 
100-basis-point decrease in the interest rate  

CCaannaaddiiaann  
ddoollllaarr  

OOtthheerr  
ccuurrrreenncciieess  

((117788))    
119999

((2266))    
7733

4400     
((44))

4422     
((44))

22001199       

TToottaall  

((113388))    
119955     

1166     
6699     

Canadian 
dollar 

Other 
currencies 

(140)  
154   

10   
34   

9   
17   

19   
8   

2018   

Total 

(131)   
171    

29    
42    

IInnvveessttmmeenntt  GGoovveerrnnaannccee  
The Bank has created securities portfolios in liquid and less liquid securities for strategic, long-term investment and liquidity management purposes. These 
investments carry market risk, credit risk, liquidity risk and concentration risk. 

The investment governance sets out the guiding principles and general management standards that must be followed by all those who manage portfolios of 
these securities included in the portfolios of the Bank and its subsidiaries. Under this investment governance, business units that are active in managing these 
types of portfolios must adopt internal investment policies that set, among other things, targets and limits for the allocation of assets in the portfolios concerned 
and internal approval mechanisms. The primary objective is to reduce concentration risk by industry, issuer, country, type of financial instrument and credit 
quality.  

Overall limits in value and in proportion to the Bank’s equity are set on the outstanding amount of liquid preferred shares, liquid equity securities excluding 
preferred shares, and instruments classified as illiquid securities in the securities portfolios. The overall exposure to common shares with respect to an individual 
issuer and the total outstanding amount invested in private equity funds, for investment banking services, are also subject to limits. Restrictions are also set on 
investments  defined  as  special.  Lastly,  the  Bank  has  a  specific  strategic  investment  policy,  approved  by  the  Board,  which  defines  strategic  investments  as 
purchases of business assets or acquisitions of significant interests in an entity for purposes of acquiring control or creating a long-term relationship.  

SSttrruuccttuurraall  FFoorreeiiggnn  EExxcchhaannggee  RRiisskk 
The Bank’s structural foreign exchange risk arises from investments in foreign operations denominated in currencies other than the Canadian dollar. This risk, 
predominantly in U.S. dollars, is measured by assessing the impact of currency fluctuations on net interest income and shareholders’ equity. The Bank uses 
financial instruments (derivative and non-derivative) to hedge some of this risk. An adverse change in foreign exchange rates can also impact the Bank’s capital 
ratios due to the amount of RWA denominated in a foreign currency. When the Canadian dollar depreciates relative to other currencies, unrealized translation 
gains on the Bank’s net investments in foreign operations, net of related hedges, are reported in other comprehensive income in shareholders’ equity. In addition, 
the  Canadian-dollar  equivalent  of  U.S.-dollar-denominated  RWA  and  regulatory  capital  deductions  increases.  The  reverse  is  true  when  the  Canadian  dollar 
appreciates relative to the U.S. dollar. The structural foreign exchange risk exposure is managed to ensure that the potential impacts on the capital ratios and 
net income are within tolerable limits set by risk policies.  

National Bank of Canada 

81

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Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Risk Management 

LLiiqquuiiddiittyy  aanndd  FFuunnddiinngg  RRiisskk  

Liquidity and funding risk is the risk that the Bank will be unable to honour daily cash and financial obligations without resorting to costly and untimely measures. 
Liquidity and funding risk arises when sources of funds become insufficient to meet scheduled payments under the Bank’s commitments. Liquidity risk stems 
from mismatched cash flows related to assets and liabilities as well as the characteristics of certain products such as credit commitments and non-fixed-term 
deposits.  

The  Bank’s  primary  objective  as  a  financial  institution  is  to  manage  liquidity  such  that  it  supports  the  Bank’s  business  strategy  and  allows  it  to  honour  its 
commitments  when  they  come  due,  even  in  extreme  conditions.  This  is  done  primarily  by  implementing  a  policy  framework  approved  by  the  Board,  which 
establishes a risk appetite, monitoring structures controlled by various committees, risk indicators, reporting procedures, delegation of responsibilities and 
segregation of duties. The Bank also prepares an annual funding plan that incorporates the expected growth of assets and liabilities.  

Regulatory Environment 
The Bank works closely with national and international regulators to implement regulatory liquidity standards. The Bank adapts its processes and policies to 
reflect the Bank’s liquidity risk appetite towards these new requirements. 

The Liquidity Adequacy Requirements are reviewed annually to reflect domestic and international regulatory changes. They constitute OSFI's proposed liquidity 
framework and include six chapters:  

  overview; 
liquidity coverage ratio (LCR); 
 
  net stable funding ratio (NSFR);  
  net cumulative cash flow (NCCF);  
 
 

liquidity monitoring tools; 
intraday liquidity monitoring tools.   

The LCR is used to ensure that banks can overcome severe short-term stress, while the NSFR is a structural ratio over a one-year horizon. The NCCF metric is 
defined as a monitoring tool that calculates a survival period. It is based on the assumptions of a stress scenario prescribed by OSFI that aims to represent a 
combined systemic and bank-specific crisis.  

The Bank publishes the LCR on a quarterly basis. It is currently monitoring the NSFR ratio and will be compliant therewith as of the effective date of January 1, 
2021, with OSFI having published the final version of the Net Stable Funding Ratio Disclosure Requirements guideline on April 11, 2019, which sets out NSFR 
ratio  disclosure  requirements  for  D-SIBs.  These  requirements  will  be  applicable  as  of  January  1,  2020,  but  since  OSFI  has  introduced  an  additional  year  to 
implement  the  disclosure  framework,  they  will  take  effect  on  January  1,  2021.  On  April  11,  2019,  OSFI  also  issued  a  new  version  of  its Liquidity Adequacy 
Requirements  guideline,  which  will  come  into  effect  on  January  1,  2020.  This  version  differs  from  the  previous  one  and  seeks  to  ensure  that  liquidity  risk 
measuring and monitoring standards reflect current sound practices.  

On May 23, 2019, OSFI updated the covered bond limit calculation. Effective August 1, 2019, total assets pledged by a deposit-taking institution for covered 
bonds must not, at any time, represent more than 5.5% of the issuer’s on-balance-sheet assets. 

On July 18, 2019, OSFI published proposed changes to guideline B-6 – Liquidity Principles for public consultation. The current version was last updated in 2012, 
and the proposed changes aim to ensure that the guideline remains current, relevant, and appropriate to the scale and complexity of institutions. OSFI is targeting 
an implementation date of January 1, 2020. 

GGoovveerrnnaannccee  
The  Global  Funding  and  Treasury Group  is  responsible  for  managing  liquidity  and  funding  risk.  Although  the  day-to-day  and  strategic  management  of  risks 
associated with liquidity, funding and pledging activities is assumed by the Global Funding and Treasury Group, the Risk Management Group is responsible for 
assessing  liquidity  risk  and  overseeing  compliance  with  the  resulting  policy.  The  Risk  Management  Group  ensures  that  an  appropriate  risk  management 
framework is in place and ensures compliance with the risk appetite framework. This structure provides an independent oversight and effective challenge for 
the liquidity, funding and pledging decisions, strategy, and exposure.   

The Bank’s Liquidity, Funding and Pledging Governance policy requires review and approval by the RMC, based on recommendations from the GRC. The Bank 
has established two levels of limits. The first level of limits encompasses the Bank’s overall liquidity position and is Board approved, while the second level of 
limits  is  more  focused  on  specific  elements  of  liquidity  risk  and  is  approved  by  the  GRC.  The  Board  not  only  approves  the  supervision  of  day-to-day  risk 
management and governance but also backup plans in anticipation of emergency and liquidity crisis situations. If a limit has to be revised, the Risk Management 
Group with the support of the Global Funding and Treasury Group, submits the proposed revision to the GRC. If the latter approves the request, it is presented to 
the Board for approval only if a level-one limit is concerned. 

Oversight of liquidity risk is entrusted mainly to the Financial Markets Risk Committee, whose members include representatives of the Financial Markets segment, 
the Global Funding and Treasury Group, the Risk Management Group, and Internal Audit.  

82

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Risk Management 

Through  the  Financial  Markets  Risk  Committee,  the  Risk  Management  Group  regularly  reports  changes  in  liquidity,  funding  and  pledging  indicators  and 
compliance with regulatory, Board and GRC approved limits. If control reports indicate non-compliance with the limits and, generally, deterioration of liquidity 
indicators,  the  Global  Funding  and  Treasury  Group  takes  remedial  action.  According  to  the  escalation  process,  problematic  situations  are  reported  to 
management and to the GRC and the RMC. An executive report on the Bank’s liquidity and funding risk management, which describes the Bank’s liquidity position 
and informs the Board of non-compliance with the limits and other rules observed during the reference period as well as remedial action taken, is submitted 
quarterly to the RMC. 

LLiiqquuiiddiittyy  MMaannaaggeemmeenntt  
The Bank performs liquidity management, funding and pledging operations not only from its head office and regional offices in Canada, but also through certain 
foreign centres. Although the volume of such operations abroad represents a sizable portion of global liquidity management, the Bank’s liquidity management 
is centralized. By organizing liquidity management, funding and pledging activities within the Global Funding and Treasury Group, the Bank can better coordinate 
enterprise-wide funding and risk monitoring activities. All internal funding transactions between Bank entities are controlled by the Global Funding and Treasury 
Group. 

This centralized structure streamlines the allocation and control of liquidity management, funding and pledging limits. Nonetheless, the Liquidity, Funding and 
Pledging  Governance  policy  contains  special  provisions  for  the  financial  centres  that  are  most  active  in  terms  of  institutional  funding  and  sets  limits  and 
monitoring thresholds for secured and unsecured short-term funding, both in absolute value and materiality.  

The Bank’s funds transfer pricing system prices liquidity by allocating the cost or income to the various business segments. Liquidity costs are allocated to 
liquidity-intensive activities, mainly long-term loans, and commitments to extend credit and less liquid securities as well as strategic investments. The liquidity 
compensation is credited to the suppliers of funds, primarily funding in the form of stable deposits from the Bank’s distribution network.  

Short-term day-to-day funding decisions are based on a daily cumulative net cash position, which is controlled using liquidity ratio limits. Among these ratios 
and metrics, the Bank pays particular attention to the funds obtained on the wholesale market and to cumulative cash flows over various time horizons. 

Moreover, the Bank’s collateral pledging activities are monitored in relation to the different limits set by the Bank and are subject to monthly stress tests using 
simulations. In particular, the Bank uses various scenarios to estimate the potential amounts of additional collateral that would be required in the event of a 
downgrade to the Bank’s credit rating.  

Liquidity risk can be assessed in many different ways using different liquidity indicators. One of the key monitoring tools of liquidity risk is the Bank’s survival 
period based on contractual maturity and behavioural assumptions applied to balance sheet items as well as off-balance-sheet commitments.  

Stress Testing and Crisis Scenarios 
Using various simulations, survival period measures the number of months it would take to completely utilize the Bank’s liquid assets if the Bank were to lose 
deposits prematurely or if funds from wholesale markets were not renewed at maturity. It is measured monthly using three scenarios, which were developed to 
assess sensitivity to a Bank-specific and/or systemic crisis. Deposit loss simulations are carried out based on their degree of stability, while the value of certain 
assets is encumbered by an amount reflecting their readiness for liquidation in a crisis. Appropriate scenarios and limits are included in the Bank's liquidity, 
funding and pledging governance policy. 

The Bank maintains an up-to-date, comprehensive financial contingency and crisis recovery plan that describes the measures to be taken in the event of a critical 
liquidity situation. This plan is reviewed and approved annually by the Board as part of business continuity and recovery planning. For additional information, 
see the Regulatory Compliance Risk Management section of this MD&A. 

Liquidity Risk Appetite 
The Bank monitors and manages its risk appetite through liquidity limits, ratios and stress tests. The Bank’s liquidity risk appetite is based on the following 
principles: 

 
 
 

ensure the Bank has a sufficient amount of unencumbered liquid assets to cover its financial requirements, in both normal and stressed conditions; 
ensure the Bank keeps a liquidity buffer above the minimum regulatory requirement; 
ensure the Bank maintains diversified and stable sources of funding. 

Liquid Assets 
To protect depositors and creditors from unexpected crisis situations, the Bank holds a portfolio of unencumbered liquid assets that can be readily liquidated to 
meet financial obligations. The majority of unencumbered liquid assets are held in Canadian or U.S. dollars. Moreover, all assets that can be quickly monetized 
are considered liquid assets. The Bank’s liquidity reserves do not factor in the availability of the central bank’s emergency liquidity facilities. The following tables 
provide information on the Bank’s encumbered and unencumbered assets.  

National Bank of Canada 

83

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Risk Management 

LLiiqquuiidd  AAsssseett  PPoorrttffoolliioo  

As at October 31 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

CCaasshh  aanndd  ddeeppoossiittss  wwiitthh  ffiinnaanncciiaall  iinnssttiittuuttiioonnss  
SSeeccuurriittiieess  
   Issued or guaranteed by the Canadian government,  
     U.S. Treasury, other U.S. agencies and  
     other foreign governments 
   Issued or guaranteed by Canadian provincial 
     and municipal governments 
   Other debt securities 
   Equity securities 
LLooaannss  
   Securities backed by insured residential mortgages 
AAss  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199  
As at October 31, 2018  

As at October 31 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

UUnneennccuummbbeerreedd  lliiqquuiidd  aasssseettss  bbyy  eennttiittyy  
  National Bank (parent) 
  Domestic subsidiaries 
  Foreign subsidiaries and branches  

As at October 31 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

UUnneennccuummbbeerreedd  lliiqquuiidd  aasssseettss  bbyy  ccuurrrreennccyy  
  Canadian dollar 
  U.S. dollar 
  Other currencies 

LLiiqquuiidd  AAsssseett  PPoorrttffoolliioo  ––  AAvveerraaggee(4) 

Year ended October 31 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

CCaasshh  aanndd  ddeeppoossiittss  wwiitthh  ffiinnaanncciiaall  iinnssttiittuuttiioonnss  
SSeeccuurriittiieess  
   Issued or guaranteed by the Canadian government,  
     U.S. Treasury, other U.S. agencies and  
     other foreign governments 
   Issued or guaranteed by Canadian provincial 
     and municipal governments 
   Other debt securities 
   Equity securities 
LLooaannss  
   Securities backed by insured residential mortgages 
AAss  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199  
As at October 31, 2018 

BBaannkk--oowwnneedd  
lliiqquuiidd  aasssseettss(1)  

LLiiqquuiidd  aasssseettss  
rreecceeiivveedd(2)  

TToottaall  
lliiqquuiidd  aasssseettss   

EEnnccuummbbeerreedd  
lliiqquuiidd  aasssseettss(3)  

22001199  
UUnneennccuummbbeerreedd  
lliiqquuiidd  aasssseettss  

2018  
Unencumbered 
liquid assets  

1133,,669988

−−

1133,,669988

44,,110022 

99,,559966

10,287   

2255,,664488

1188,,776600

4444,,440088

1100,,222244
55,,664477
4400,,770077

77,,442222
110033,,334466
91,640

55,,440044
22,,221122
2288,,993344

−−
5555,,331100
57,483

1155,,662288
77,,885599
6699,,664411

77,,442222
115588,,665566
149,123

2200,,995533 

99,,448833 
22,,227788 
4422,,667733 

44,,449966 
8833,,998855 
86,176 

2233,,445555

20,825   

66,,114455
55,,558811
2266,,996688

22,,992266
7744,,667711

6,540   
5,398   
16,611   

3,286   

62,947   

22001199   

2018  

3300,,338800   
1144,,881155   
2299,,447766   
7744,,667711   

30,205   
11,543   
21,199   
62,947   

22001199   

2018  

3399,,117722   
1199,,335566   
1166,,114433   
7744,,667711   

35,838   
22,663   
4,446   
62,947   

BBaannkk--oowwnneedd  
lliiqquuiidd  aasssseettss(1)  

LLiiqquuiidd  aasssseettss  
rreecceeiivveedd(2)  

TToottaall  
lliiqquuiidd  aasssseettss   

EEnnccuummbbeerreedd  
lliiqquuiidd  aasssseettss(3)  

22001199  
UUnneennccuummbbeerreedd  
lliiqquuiidd  aasssseettss  

2018 
Unencumbered 
liquid assets 

1111,,883300

−−

1111,,883300

33,,333399 

88,,449911

9,098 

2288,,115522

2233,,334499

5511,,550011

1111,,332200
55,,441100
3388,,441166

77,,668888
110022,,881166
96,513

66,,776611
22,,447744
2299,,885500

−−
6622,,443344
63,347

1188,,008811
77,,888844
6688,,226666

77,,668888
116655,,225500
159,860

2288,,550066 

1133,,663399 
22,,999999 
4411,,990066 

44,,553388 
9944,,992277 
96,591 

2222,,999955

19,180 

44,,444422
44,,888855
2266,,336600

33,,115500
7700,,332233

4,652 
4,041 
22,001 

4,297 

63,269 

Bank-owned liquid assets include assets for which there are no legal or geographic restrictions. 
Securities received as collateral with respect to securities financing and derivative transactions and securities purchased under reverse repurchase agreements and securities borrowed. 
In the normal course of its funding activities, the Bank pledges assets as collateral in accordance with standard terms. Encumbered liquid assets include assets used to cover short sales, 
obligations related to securities sold under repurchase agreements and securities loaned, guarantees related to security-backed loans and borrowings, collateral related to derivative financial 
instrument transactions, asset-backed securities and liquid assets legally restricted from transfers. 
The average is based on the sum of the end-of-period balances of the 12 months of the year divided by 12.  

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 

(4) 

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Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Risk Management 

SSuummmmaarryy  ooff  EEnnccuummbbeerreedd  aanndd  UUnneennccuummbbeerreedd  AAsssseettss  

(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Cash and deposits with financial institutions 
Securities 
Securities purchased under reverse repurchase  
  agreements and securities borrowed 
Loans and acceptances, net of allowances  
Derivative financial instruments 
Investments in associates and joint ventures 
Premises and equipment 
Goodwill 
Intangible assets 
Other assets 

(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Cash and deposits with financial institutions 
Securities 
Securities purchased under reverse repurchase  
  agreements and securities borrowed 
Loans and acceptances, net of allowances 
Derivative financial instruments 
Investments in associates and joint ventures 
Premises and equipment 
Goodwill 
Intangible assets 
Other assets 

EEnnccuummbbeerreedd  
aasssseettss(1)    

UUnneennccuummbbeerreedd  
aasssseettss    

AAss  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199   
EEnnccuummbbeerreedd  
aasssseettss  aass    %%  
ooff  ttoottaall  aasssseettss   

TToottaall    

OOtthheerr(2)  

33,,995599
−−

1122,,885500
−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
1166,,880099

AAvvaaiillaabbllee  aass  
ccoollllaatteerraall  

99,,559966
5577,,227766

44,,887733
22,,992266
−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
7744,,667711

OOtthheerr(3)  

−−   
−−   

−−   
111188,,449900   
88,,112299   
338855   
449900   
11,,441122   
11,,440066   
22,,773388   
113333,,005500   

1133,,669988
8822,,222266

1177,,772233
115533,,225511
88,,112299
338855
449900
11,,441122
11,,440066
22,,773388
228811,,445588

11..44    
88..99    

44..66    
1111..33    
−−    
−−    
−−    
−−    
−−    
−−    
2266..22    

Encumbered 
assets(1)  

Unencumbered 
assets  

As at October 31, 2018  
Encumbered 
assets as  % 
of total assets  

Total 

Other(2) 

2,382
−

17,781
−
−
−
−
−
−
−
20,163

Available as 
collateral 

10,287
48,996

378
3,286
−
−
−
−
−
−
62,947

Other(3) 

−   
−   

−   
114,126   
8,608   
645   
601   
1,412   
1,314   
3,111   
129,817   

12,756
69,783

18,159
146,082
8,608
645
601
1,412
1,314
3,111
262,471

0.9   
7.9   

6.8   
10.9   
−   
−   
−   
−   
−   
−   
26.5   

PPlleeddggeedd  aass  
ccoollllaatteerraall  

114433
2244,,995500

−−
3311,,883355
−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
5566,,992288

Pledged as 
collateral 

87
20,787

−
28,670
−
−
−
−
−
−
49,544

(1) 

In the normal course of its funding activities, the Bank pledges assets as collateral in accordance with standard terms. Encumbered assets include assets used to cover short sales, obligations 
related to securities sold under repurchase agreements and securities loaned, guarantees related to security-backed loans and borrowings, collateral related to derivative financial instrument 
transactions, asset-backed securities, residential mortgage loans securitized and transferred under the Canada Mortgage Bond program, assets held in consolidated trusts supporting the 
Bank’s funding activities and mortgage loans transferred under covered bond programs. 

(2)  Other encumbered assets include assets for which there are restrictions and therefore cannot be used for collateral or funding purposes as well as assets used to cover short sales. 
(3)  Other unencumbered assets are assets that cannot be used for collateral or funding purposes in their current form. This category includes assets that are potentially eligible as funding 

program collateral (e.g., Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation insured mortgages that can be securitized into mortgage-backed securities under the National Housing Act (Canada)). 

National Bank of Canada 

85

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Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Risk Management 

Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR)  
The LCR was introduced primarily to ensure banks maintain sufficient liquidity to withstand periods of severe short-term stress. OSFI has been requiring Canadian 
banks to maintain a minimum LCR of 100%. An LCR above 100% ensures that banks are holding sufficient high-quality liquid assets (HQLA) to cover net cash 
outflows given a severe, 30-day liquidity crisis. The assumptions underlying the LCR scenario were established by the BCBS and OSFI. 

The following table provides average LCR data calculated using the daily figures in the quarter. For the quarter ended October 31, 2019, the Bank’s average LCR 
was 146%, well above the 100% regulatory requirement and demonstrating the Bank’s solid liquidity position. 

LLCCRR  DDiisscclloossuurree  RReeqquuiirreemmeennttss(1) 

(millions of Canadian dollars) 

  HHiigghh--qquuaalliittyy  lliiqquuiidd  aasssseettss  ((HHQQLLAA))  

1   Total HQLA 

  CCaasshh  oouuttfflloowwss  

2   Retail deposits and deposits from small business customers, of which: 
3     Stable deposits 
4     Less stable deposits 
5   Unsecured wholesale funding, of which: 
6     Operational deposits (all counterparties)  
7     Non-operational deposits (all counterparties) 
8     Unsecured debt 
9   Secured wholesale funding 

  10   Additional requirements, of which: 
  11     Outflows related to derivative exposures and other collateral requirements 
  12     Outflows related to loss of funding on secured debt securities 
  13     Backstop liquidity and credit enhancement facilities and commitments to extend credit 
  14   Other contractual commitments to extend credit 
  15   Other contingent commitments to extend credit 
  16   Total cash outflows 

  CCaasshh  iinnfflloowwss  
  17   Secured lending (e.g., reverse repos) 
  18   Inflows from fully performing exposures 
  19   Other cash inflows 
  20   Total cash inflows 

  21   Total HQLA 
  22   Total net cash outflows 
  23   Liquidity coverage ratio (%)(5) 

TToottaall  uunnwweeiigghhtteedd  
vvaalluuee(2)  ((aavveerraaggee))  

OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199  
TToottaall  wweeiigghhtteedd  
vvaalluuee(3)  ((aavveerraaggee))  

For the quarter ended  
July 31, 2019  
Total weighted 
value(3) (average)  

nn..aa..

4455,,889911 

4433,,993333
1199,,335500
2244,,558833
7766,,557799
1133,,006655
5544,,114433
99,,337711
nn..aa..
3366,,009933
99,,223333
883399
2266,,002211
11,,997700
9922,,665500
nn..aa..

111166,,229999
1100,,449966
1166,,007700
114422,,886655

33,,003399 
558811 
22,,445588 
4422,,447799 
33,,114433 
2299,,996655 
99,,337711 
1155,,995522 
1100,,119999 
55,,229911 
883399 
44,,006699 
557766 
11,,444477 
7733,,669922 

1199,,550000 
66,,445555 
1166,,007700 
4422,,002255 

46,194   

2,893   
588   
2,305   
39,240   
2,780   
28,888   
7,572   
16,440   
9,031   
4,113   
858   
4,060   
415   
1,442   
69,461   

19,765   
6,094   
13,531   
39,390   

TToottaall  aaddjjuusstteedd  
vvaalluuee(4)  

Total adjusted 
value(4)  

nn..aa..
nn..aa..
nn..aa..

4455,,889911 
3311,,666677 

114466  %%

46,194   
30,071   

154  %   

Unweighted values are calculated as outstanding balances maturing or callable within 30 days (for inflows and outflows). 

n.a.  Not applicable 
(1)  OSFI prescribed a table format in order to standardize disclosure throughout the banking industry. 
(2) 
(3)  Weighted values are calculated after the application of respective haircuts (for HQLA) or inflow and outflow rates. 
(4) 
(5) 

Total adjusted values are calculated after the application of both haircuts and inflow and outflow rates and any applicable caps. 
The data in this table has been calculated using averages of the daily figures in the quarter. 

As at October 31, 2019, Level 1 liquid assets represented 79% of the Bank’s HQLA, which includes cash, central bank deposits, and bonds issued or guaranteed 
by the Canadian government and Canadian provincial governments. 

Cash  outflows  arise  from  the  application  of  OSFI-prescribed  assumptions  on  deposits,  debt,  secured  funding,  commitments  and  additional  collateral 
requirements. The cash outflows are partly offset by cash inflows, which come mainly from secured loans and performing loans. The Bank expects some quarter-
over-quarter variation between reported LCRs, and such variation may not be indicative of a trend. The variation between the quarter ended October 31, 2019 
and the previous quarter was a result of normal business activities. The Bank’s liquid asset buffer is well in excess of its total net cash outflows.  

The LCR assumptions differ from the assumptions used for the liquidity disclosures presented in the tables on the previous pages or those used for internal 
liquidity management rules. While the liquidity disclosure framework was prescribed by the EDTF, the Bank’s internal liquidity metrics use assumptions that are 
calibrated according to its business model and experience. 

86

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
     
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Risk Management 

Intraday Liquidity 
The Bank manages its intraday liquidity in such a way that the amount of available liquidity exceeds its maximum intraday liquidity requirements. The Bank 
monitors its intraday liquidity on an hourly basis and the evolution is presented monthly to the Financial Markets Risk Committee.  

FFuunnddiinngg  RRiisskk  
Funding risk is defined as the risk to the Bank’s ongoing ability to raise sufficient funds to finance actual or proposed business activities on an unsecured or 
secured basis at an acceptable price. The Bank maintains a good balance of its funding through appropriate diversification of its unsecured funding vehicles, 
securitization programs and secured funding. The Bank also diversifies its funding by currency, geography and maturity. The funding management priority is to 
achieve an optimal balance between deposits, securitization, secured funding and unsecured funding. This brings optimal stability to the funding and reduces 
vulnerability to unpredictable events.  

Funding and liquidity levels remained sound  and robust  over the  year and the Bank does not foresee any event, commitment  or demand that might have  a 
significant impact on its funding and liquidity risk position. For additional information, see the table entitled Residual Contractual Maturities of Balance Sheet 
Items and Off-Balance-Sheet Commitments in Note 29 to the consolidated financial statements.  

Credit Ratings 
The credit ratings assigned by ratings agencies represent their assessment of the Bank’s credit quality based on qualitative and quantitative information provided 
to them. Credit ratings may be revised at any time based on various factors, including macro-economic factors, methodologies used by ratings agencies, or the 
current and projected financial condition of the Bank. Credit ratings are one of the main factors that influence the Bank’s ability to access financial markets at a 
reasonable cost. A downgrade in the Bank’s credit ratings could adversely affect the cost, size and term of future funding and could also result in increased 
requirement  to  pledge  collateral  or  decreased  capacity  to  engage  in  certain  collateralized  business  activities  at  a  reasonable  cost,  including  hedging  and 
derivatives transactions.  

Funding and liquidity levels remained sound and robust, and the Bank continues to enjoy excellent access to the market for its funding needs. The Bank received 
favourable credit ratings from all the agencies, reflecting the high quality of its debt instruments, and the Bank's objective is to maintain these high ratings. On 
July 29, 2019, DBRS Limited (DBRS) changed the trend on all the Bank’s ratings and its related entities from "Stable" to "Positive" to reflect improvements in its 
assessment of the Bank's funding and liquidity levels. For Moody's, S&P, and Fitch, the outlook remains unchanged at "Stable."  The following table presents 
the Bank’s credit ratings according to four rating agencies as at October 31, 2019. 

TThhee  BBaannkk’’ss  CCrreeddiitt  RRaattiinnggss  

Short-term senior debt 
Canadian commercial paper 
Long-term deposits 
Long-term non-bail-inable senior debt(1) 
Senior debt(2) 
NVCC subordinated debt 
NVCC preferred shares 
Counterparty risk(3) 
Covered bonds program 
Rating outlook 

MMooooddyy’’ss  

SS&&PP  

AAss  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199   
FFiittcchh   

DDBBRRSS  

P-1 

Aa3 
Aa3 
A3 
Baa2 (hyb) 
Ba1 (hyb) 
Aa3/P-1 
Aaa 
Stable 

A-1 
A-1 (mid) 

A 
BBB+ 
BBB 
P-3 (high) 

Stable 

R-1 (mid) 

AA (low) 
AA (low) 
A (high) 
BBB (high) 
Pfd-2 (low) 

AAA 
Positive 

F1  

A+  
A+  
A+  

A+  
AAA  
Stable  

Includes senior debt issued prior to September 23, 2018 and senior debt issued on or after September 23, 2018 which is excluded from the Bank Recapitalization (Bail-in) Regime. 
Subject to conversion under the Bank Recapitalization (Bail-in) Regime. 

(1) 
(2) 
(3)  Moody’s uses the term Counterparty Risk Rating while Fitch uses the term Derivative Counterparty Rating. 

National Bank of Canada 

87

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
   
   
   
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Risk Management 

Guarantees  
As part of a comprehensive liquidity management framework, the Bank regularly reviews its contracts that stipulate that additional collateral could be required 
in the event of a downgrade of the Bank’s credit rating. The Bank’s liquidity position management already incorporates additional collateral requirements in the 
event of a one-notch to three-notch downgrade. The table below presents the additional collateral requirements in the event of a one-notch or three-notch credit 
rating downgrade. 

(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Derivatives(1) 

OOnnee--nnoottcchh  
ddoowwnnggrraaddee    

AAss  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199    
TThhrreeee--nnoottcchh  
ddoowwnnggrraaddee   

2266   

3355    

(1) 

Contractual requirements related to agreements known as Credit Support Annexes. 

Funding Strategy 
The main objective of the funding strategy is to support the Bank's organic growth while also enabling it to survive potentially severe and prolonged crises and 
to meet its regulatory obligations and financial targets. 

The Bank’s funding framework is summarized as follows: 

  pursue a diversified deposit strategy to fund core banking activities through stable deposits coming from the networks of each of the Bank’s major business 

 

segments;  
incorporate the regulatory framework into day-to-day liquidity management and into the long-term funding plan by leveraging a strong risk management 
culture and centralized expertise; 

  maintain active access to various markets to ensure a diversification of institutional funding in terms of source, geographic location, currency, instrument 

and maturity, whether or not funding is secured.  

The  funding  strategy  is  implemented  in  accordance  with  the  overall  objectives  of  strengthening  the  Bank's  franchise  among  market  participants  and 
consolidating its excellent reputation. The Bank continuously monitors and analyzes the possibilities for accessing less expensive and more flexible funding. 
The deposit strategy remains a priority for the Bank, which continues to prefer deposits to institutional funding. 

The Bank actively monitors and controls liquidity risk exposures and funding needs within and across entities, business segments, and currencies. The process 
involves evaluating the liquidity position of individual business segments in addition to that of the Bank as a whole as well as the liquidity risk from raising 
unsecured and secured funding in foreign currencies. The funding strategy is implemented through the funding plan and deposit strategy, which are monitored, 
updated to reflect actual results and regularly evaluated. 

88

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Risk Management 

Diversified Funding Sources 
The primary purpose of diversification by source, geographic location, currency, instrument, maturity and depositor is to mitigate liquidity and funding risk by 
ensuring that the Bank maintains alternative sources of funds that strengthen its capacity to withstand a variety of severe yet plausible institution-specific and 
market-wide shocks. To meet this objective, the Bank: 

sets limits on funding concentration; 

takes funding diversification into account in the business planning process; 

 
  maintains a variety of funding programs to access different markets; 
 
  maintains strong relationships with fund providers; 
 
 

is active in various funding markets of all tenors and for various instruments; 
identifies and monitors the main factors that affect the ability to raise funds. 

The Bank is active in the following funding and securitization platforms: 

  Canadian dollar Senior Unsecured Debt; 
  U.S. dollar Senior Unsecured Debt programs; 
  Canadian Medium-Term Note Shelf;  
  U.S. dollar Commercial Paper programs; 
  U.S. dollar Certificates of Deposit; 
Euro Medium-Term Note program; 
 
  Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation securitization programs; 
  Canadian Credit Card Trust II;  
 

Legislative Covered Bond program.   

The  table  below  presents  the  residual  contractual  maturities  of  the  Bank’s  wholesale  funding.  The  information  has  been  presented  in  accordance  with  the 
categories recommended by the EDTF for comparison purposes with other banks. 

RReessiidduuaall  CCoonnttrraaccttuuaall  MMaattuurriittiieess  ooff  WWhhoolleessaallee  FFuunnddiinngg(1) 

(millions of Canadian dollars) 

AAss  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199   

Deposits from banks(2) 
Certificates of deposit and commercial paper(3) 
Senior unsecured medium-term notes(4) 
Senior unsecured structured notes 
Covered bonds and asset-backed securities 
  Mortgage securitization 
  Covered bonds 
  Securitization of credit card receivables 
Subordinated liabilities(5) 

Secured funding 
Unsecured funding 

As at October 31, 2018 

11  mmoonntthh  oorr  
lleessss  

OOvveerr  11  
mmoonntthh  ttoo  
33  mmoonntthhss  

OOvveerr  33  
mmoonntthhss  ttoo  
66  mmoonntthhss  

OOvveerr  66  
mmoonntthhss  ttoo  
1122  mmoonntthhss  

660055   
11,,991144   
1144   
665544   

−−   
−−   
−−   
−−   
33,,118877   

−−   
33,,118877   
33,,118877   
1,944   

1133
44,,119999
339955
−−

11,,449911
−−
−−
−−
66,,009988

11,,449911
44,,660077
66,,009988
7,261

77
33,,223388
22,,110033
−−

999955
−−
887744
−−
77,,221177

11,,886699
55,,334488
77,,221177
4,339

−−
22,,664444
22,,777711
225544

11,,225566
−−
−−
−−
66,,992255

11,,225566
55,,666699
66,,992255
5,143

SSuubbttoottaall  
11  yyeeaarr  
oorr  lleessss  

662255   
1111,,999955   
55,,228833   
990088   

33,,774422   
−−   
887744   
−−   
2233,,442277   

44,,661166   
1188,,881111   
2233,,442277   
18,687   

OOvveerr  11  
yyeeaarr  ttoo  
22  yyeeaarrss    

−−   
−−   
33,,443322   
−−   

33,,664400   
22,,229900   
−−   
−−   
99,,336622   

55,,993300   
33,,443322   
99,,336622   
9,856   

OOvveerr  22  
  yyeeaarrss    

−−
−−
44,,773300
44,,110088

1133,,993300
77,,116688
3377
777733
3300,,774466

2211,,113355
99,,661111
3300,,774466
28,950

TToottaall   

662255    
1111,,999955    
1133,,444455    
55,,001166    

2211,,331122    
99,,445588    
991111    
777733    
6633,,553355    

3311,,668811    
3311,,885544    
6633,,553355    
57,493   

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 
(4) 
(5) 

Bankers’ acceptances are not included in this table. 
Deposits from banks include all non-negotiable term deposits from banks. 
Includes bearer deposit notes. 
Certificates of deposit denominated in euros are included in senior unsecured medium-term notes. 
Subordinated debt is presented in this table but the Bank does not consider it as part of its wholesale funding. 

National Bank of Canada 

89

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
   
   
   
   
   
 
   
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Risk Management 

OOppeerraattiioonnaall  RRiisskk  

Operational risk is the risk of loss resulting from an inadequacy or a failure ascribable to human resources, equipment, processes, technology or external events. 
Operational  risk  exists  for  every  Bank  activity.  Theft,  fraud,  cyberattacks,  unauthorized  transactions,  system  errors,  human  error,  amendments  to  or 
misinterpretation of laws and regulations, litigation or disputes with clients, inappropriate sales practice behaviour or property damage are just a few examples 
of events likely to cause financial loss, harm the Bank’s reputation or lead to punitive damages or regulatory penalties or sanctions. 

Although operational risk cannot be eliminated entirely, it can be managed in a thorough and transparent manner to keep it at an acceptable level. The Bank’s 
operational risk management framework is built on the concept of three lines of defence and provides a clear allocation of responsibilities to all levels of the 
organization, as mentioned below.   

OOppeerraattiioonnaall  RRiisskk  MMaannaaggeemmeenntt  FFrraammeewwoorrkk  
The operational risk management framework is described in the Operational Risk Management Policy, which is derived from the Risk Management Policy. The 
operational  risk  management  framework  is  aligned  with  the  Bank's  risk  appetite  and  is  made  up  of  policies,  standards,  and  procedures  specific  to  each 
operational risk, which fall under the responsibility of specialized groups. 

The segments use several operational risk management tools and methods to identify, assess, and monitor their operational risks and control measures. With 
these tools and methods, the segments can: 

recognize and understand the inherent and residual risks to which their activities and operations are exposed; 
identify how to mitigate the identified risks and monitor them to keep them at an acceptable level;  

 
 
  proactively and continuously manage risks. 

OOppeerraattiioonnaall  RRiisskk  MMaannaaggeemmeenntt  TToooollss  aanndd  MMeetthhooddss  
Collection and Analysis of Data on Operational Losses Incurred by the Bank 
The Operational Risk Unit applies a process, across the Bank and its subsidiaries, for collecting and compiling data on internal operational losses. This data is 
entered into a centralized database and includes the amount of each loss, the type of risk involved, a description of the event that caused the loss, and the date 
of the loss, making it possible to better understand the fundamental causes of this type of loss and develop mitigation strategies. During fiscal years 2019 and 
2018, there were no material losses resulting from an operational risk event. 

Analysis and Lessons Learned From Operational Events Observed in Other Large Businesses  
By collecting and analyzing media-reported information about significant operational events, in particular events related to information security and theft of 
personal information experienced by other financial institutions, the Bank can assess the effectiveness of its own operational risk management practices and 
reinforce them, if necessary.  

Operational Risk Self-Assessment Program 
The operational risk self-assessment program gives each business unit and corporate unit the means to proactively identify and assess new or major operational 
risks to which they are exposed, evaluate the effectiveness of mitigating controls, and develop action plans to keep such risks at acceptable levels. 

Key Risk Indicators 
The business units and corporate units define key indicators associated with their main operational risks. The key indicators are used to monitor operational risk 
profiles and are related to critical thresholds that, once reached, result in action by management. Using key risk indicators, the business units can track risks 
and proactively detect any adverse change in risk exposure.  

Scenario Analysis 
Scenario analysis, which is part of a Bank-wide stress testing program, is an important and useful tool for assessing the potential impacts arising from major 
operational  events.  It  helps  the  Bank  define  its  risk  appetite,  set  its  exposure  limits,  and  engage  in  strategic  planning.  More  specifically,  it  helps  senior 
management to better understand the risks facing the Bank and to make appropriate management decisions to mitigate potential operational risks. 

Insurance Program 
In order to protect itself against any material losses related to its exposure to unforeseeable operational risks, the Bank also has adequate insurance, the nature 
and amount of which meet its coverage requirements. 

OOppeerraattiioonnaall  RRiisskk  RReeppoorrttss  aanndd  DDiisscclloossuurreess  
Operational events for which the financial impact exceeds the tolerance thresholds or that have a significant regulatory or reputation impact are submitted to 
the decision-making levels concerned. Management is obligated to report on its management process and to remain alert to current and future issues. Reports 
on the Bank’s risk profile, highlights, and emerging risks are periodically submitted, on a timely basis, to the Operational Risk Management Committee, the GRC 
and the RMC. This reporting enhances the transparency and proactive management of the main operational risk factors.   

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Risk Management 

RReegguullaattoorryy  CCoommpplliiaannccee  RRiisskk  

Regulatory compliance risk is the risk of the Bank or its employees failing to comply with the regulatory requirements in effect where the Bank does business, 
both in Canada and internationally. Regulatory compliance risk is present in all of the daily operations of each Bank segment. A situation of regulatory non-
compliance can adversely affect the Bank’s reputation and result in penalties, fines and sanctions or increased oversight by regulators. 

OOrrggaanniizzaattiioonnaall  SSttrruuccttuurree  ooff  CCoommpplliiaannccee  
Compliance is an independent oversight function within the Bank. The Senior Vice-President, Chief Compliance Officer and Chief Anti-Money Laundering Officer 
serves  as  both  chief  compliance  officer  (CCO)  and  chief  anti-money  laundering  and  anti-terrorist  financing  officer  (CAMLATFO).  She  is  responsible  for 
implementing and updating the Bank’s compliance program and the AML/ATF program across all Bank segments. Having a reporting relationship with the Chair 
of the RMC, the CCO and CAMLATFO meets with him on at least once every quarter. With him, she goes over matters on the relationship between the Compliance 
Service and the Bank’s management and on access to the information required. The CCO and CAMLATFO can also communicate directly with officers and directors 
of the Bank and of its subsidiaries and foreign centres.  

RReegguullaattoorryy  CCoommpplliiaannccee  FFrraammeewwoorrkk  
The  Bank  operates  in  a  highly  regulated  industry.  To  ensure  sound  management  of  regulatory  compliance,  the  Bank  favours  proactive  approaches  and 
incorporates regulatory requirements into its day-to-day operations.   

Regulatory  compliance  risk  management  ensures  that  events  stemming  from  regulatory  non-compliance  are  proactively  identified  and  understood  and  that 
mitigating strategies are implemented. Such proactive management also provides reasonable assurance that the Bank is in compliance, in all material respects, 
with the regulatory requirements in effect where it does business, both in Canada and internationally.  

The implementation of a regulatory compliance risk management framework across the Bank is entrusted to the Compliance Service, which has the following 
mandate: 

  make sure that policies and standards that ensure compliance with the regulations are in effect, including regulations related to AML/ATF, to international 

sanctions, and to corruption; 

  develop compliance and AML/ATF training programs for Bank employees, officers, and directors;  
 

exercise independent oversight and monitor the programs, policies, and procedures implemented by the Bank, its subsidiaries, and foreign centres to ensure 
that the control mechanisms are sufficient, respected, and effective; 
report  relevant  compliance  and  AML/ATF  matters  to  the  Bank’s  Board  and  inform  it  of  any  changes  in  the  effectiveness  of  the  Bank’s  risk  management 
framework.  

 

The Bank holds itself to high regulatory compliance risk management standards in order to earn the trust of its clients, its shareholders, the market and the 
general public.  

Described below are the main regulatory developments that have been monitored over the past year. 

Consumer Protection 
Last year saw several regulatory changes. Notably, several amendments to the Quebec Consumer Protection Act came into force, and the industry adopted a 
voluntary code of conduct to protect seniors. In addition, Bill C-86 was adopted by the Government of Canada and will substantially amend the Bank Act (Canada). 
The purpose of these regulatory changes is to ensure consumer protection by fostering transparency and informed decision-making. Furthermore, the Bank 
constantly monitors the consumer protection landscape such that it can change its business practices if necessary. The Bank also makes sure its practices are 
aligned with industry practices by taking part in a variety of events that bring together players from the financial services ecosystem.  

Anti-Money Laundering and Anti-Terrorist Financing (AML/ATF) Activities  
On July 10, 2019, the Government of Canada published amendments to the regulations under the Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing 
Act (2019), which will come into force in three stages. Amendments regarding identification methods may be applied once the Financial Transactions and Reports 
Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC) publishes its guideline on the topic, and the other amendments will come into force in June 2020 and June 2021. Regarding 
the five-year review of the Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act, Canadian banks are still awaiting the introduction of the bill.    

Privacy and Data Protection 
Due to changes in technologies and in society at large, privacy and data protection is a topical issue in Canada. In Europe, the new General Data Protection 
Regulation (GDPR) has been in force since May 2018, and several companies have received substantial penalties for contravening this regulation. In the United 
States, California has also adopted a stringent privacy protection act, which will come into force in January 2020. Changes in legislation related to the protection 
of personal information could accelerate in several jurisdictions, including Canada. This acceleration could be reflected in the granting of greater powers to the 
regulators responsible for privacy protection, such as the power to impose penalties. We are monitoring the relevant legislative developments. 

National Bank of Canada 

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Risk Management 

Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation (CDIC) 
Changes in the Government of Canada’s deposit insurance framework have been announced concerning information on co-owned accounts and accounts held 
in trust as well as on the insurability of certain deposits. As of April 30, 2020, coverage will be extended to insurable deposits in foreign currencies and to term 
deposits with maturities exceeding five years. In addition, as of April 30, 2021, separate coverage will be granted for Registered Education Savings Plans and 
Registered Disability Savings Plans. New requirements will also be established for the coverage of deposits in trust, particularly nominee-brokered deposits. 

Recovery and Resolution Planning  
As  part  of  the  regulatory  measures  used  to  manage  systemic  risks,  D-SIBs  are  required  to  have  in  place  recovery  and  resolution  plans.  A  recovery  plan  is 
essentially a road map that guides the recovery of a bank in the event of severe financial stress; conversely, a resolution plan guides its orderly wind-down in 
the event of failure when recovery is no longer an option. The Bank improves and periodically updates its recovery and resolution plans to prepare for these high-
risk, but low-probability events. These plans are presented to its domestic regulatory authorities. In addition, the Bank and other D-SIBs continue to work with 
the CDIC to develop a comprehensive settlement plan that would ensure orderly winding down of the Bank’s operations.  

Section 871(m) – Dividend Equivalent Payments 
Section 871(m) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code aims to ensure that non-U.S. persons pay tax on payments that can be considered dividends on U.S. shares, 
when these payments are made on certain derivative instruments. The derivative instruments for which the underlyings are U.S. shares or “non-qualified indices” 
concluded as of January 1, 2017 are subject to the withholding and reporting requirements. The effective date for certain components of this regulation has been 
deferred from January 1, 2019 to January 1, 2021. Some of the obligations of a qualified derivatives dealer, established under subsection 871(m) of the IRC and 
the qualified intermediary agreement have also been deferred to January 1, 2021.  

Good Practice in the Foreign Exchange Market 
The FX Global Code is a voluntary code of good practice that applies to all participants in the wholesale foreign exchange market in all of the world’s financial 
centres. The code is the result of nearly two years of collaborative effort among central banks, including the Bank of Canada, and market participants from the 
world’s leading financial centres. The code defines the good practices to be followed by market participants to guarantee a robust, fair and transparent foreign 
exchange market. It covers such areas as ethics, governance, execution of orders (confirmation and settlement), information sharing, and risk management. The 
Bank completed implementation of the code of good practice and published a declaration of compliance with the FX Global Code on its website. 

Reform of Benchmark Interest Rates 
The reform of benchmark interest rates is a global initiative coordinated and led by central banks and public authorities around the world, including in Canada. 
The objective is to improve benchmarks by ensuring that they satisfy robust international standards. The initiative will introduce other benchmarks as potential 
successors to benchmark interest rates such as the Interbank Offered Rates (IBOR), which are the benchmark rates used by the major international banks for 
short-term loans on the interbank market. These rates, particularly LIBOR (London Interbank Offered Rate), are widely used as benchmark rates around the world 
for derivative financial instruments, bonds and other floating-rate instruments. The gradual elimination of the IBOR rates will have an impact on over-the-counter 
derivative transactions, and the Bank expects that a standardized solution for the industry will be adopted, probably in the form of an ISDA protocol. For some 
other types of contracts, contractual amendments are anticipated by the end of 2021, when some of the current rates are expected to be eliminated. 

RReeppuuttaattiioonn  RRiisskk  

Reputation risk is the risk that the Bank’s operations or practices will be judged negatively by the public, whether that judgment is with or without basis, thereby 
adversely affecting the perception, image or trademarks of the Bank, potentially resulting in costly litigation or loss of income. Reputation risk generally arises 
from a deficiency in managing another risk. The Bank’s reputation may, for example, be adversely affected by non-compliance with laws and regulations or by 
process failures. All risks must therefore be managed effectively in order to protect the Bank’s reputation. 

The Bank seeks to ensure that its employees are constantly aware of the potential repercussions of their actions on the Bank’s reputation and image. In addition 
to  the  previously  discussed  operational  risk  management  initiatives,  a  variety  of  mechanisms  are  in  place  to  support  sound  reputation  risk  management, 
including codes of professional conduct applicable to all employees, policies regarding ethics and corporate governance and appropriate training programs.   

The Bank also has a reputation risk policy, approved by the RMC of the Board, that covers all of the Bank’s practices and transactions, including those of the 
third parties with which it establishes business relationships. The policy sets the reputation risk management principles and rules. The policy is complemented 
by the special provisions of the new products and activities policy, which determines the approvals required by the various committees that assess risk whenever 
new products or activities are introduced within the business units. These provisions are intended, among other things, to provide oversight for the management 
of reputation risk, which may be material for such products or activities. The new products and activities policy requires that any new product or activity for which 
reputation risk is determined to be high be submitted to the GRC for approval. The activities of the Compliance Service, Legal Affairs Department, Public Relations 
Department and Investor Relations Department complete the reputation risk management framework. 

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Risk Management 

SSttrraatteeggiicc  RRiisskk  

Strategic risk is the risk of a loss arising from inappropriate strategic orientations, improper execution or ineffective response to economic, financial, or regulatory 
changes. The corporate strategic plan is developed by the Office of the President, in alignment with the Bank’s overall risk appetite, and approved by the Board. 
Once approved, the initiatives of the strategic plan are monitored regularly to ensure that they are progressing. If not, strategies could be reviewed or adjusted 
if deemed appropriate.  

In  addition,  the  Bank  has  a  specific  Board-approved  policy  for strategic  investments,  which  are  defined  as  purchases  of  business  assets  or  acquisitions  of 
significant interests in an entity for the purposes  of acquiring control or creating a long-term  relationship. As such, acquisition projects and other strategic 
investments are analyzed through a due diligence process to ensure that these investments are aligned with the corporate strategic plan and the Bank’s risk 
appetite.  

EEnnvviirroonnmmeennttaall  RRiisskk  

Environmental risk is the risk of an environmental issue leading to a loss in financial or operating value or harming the Bank’s reputation or having an impact on 
its stakeholders. Consequently, physical risks resulting from the impacts of increases in the number and intensity of extreme weather events, as well as transition 
risks resulting from a shift to a low-carbon economy, require particular attention to reduce the Bank’s exposure to these negative externalities and, at the same 
time, seize new growth opportunities. 

The Bank, aware that it has a mobilizing role to play in environmental matters, announced its support for the Financial Stability Board’s Task Force on Climate-
Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) and will disclose, in addition to its performance reports, the information recommended by the task force.  

The  TCFD  has  structured  its  recommendations  around  four  pillars  that  represent  an  organization’s  operating  fundamentals:  governance,  strategy,  risk 
management, and metrics and targets. These four major classes of recommendations are intended to provide a framework for the publication of climate-related 
financial information such that institutional investors can make informed choices about their exposure to climate-related risks and opportunities.  

GGoovveerrnnaannccee  
Oversight by the Board of Directors (Board) 
The Board identifies environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues, including the impacts that climate change could have on the organization as a whole, 
and monitors the evolution of those issues.  

The Risk Management Committee, Audit Committee, and Conduct Review and Corporate Governance Committee are responsible for periodically examining the 
efforts made by the Bank to ensure that it is operating in accordance with high standards of corporate responsibility, including in environmental issues. This 
year, their respective mandates were expanded in this regard. Each year, the Board also reviews the Bank’s Social Responsibility Report, which notably provides 
details about its contribution to environmental protection.  

To further clarify the Bank’s commitment to exercising effective governance with regard to mechanisms to oversee risks and opportunities related specifically to 
the climate, the Risk Management Committee has a specific responsibility to ensure that the risk management framework takes ESG risks into account such that 
they are appropriately identified and monitored and integrated into the existing risk management processes. 

Management’s Role 
The Bank oversees climate-related risks through the risk management framework and various executive committees. The Enterprise-Wide Risk Management 
Committee  (co-chaired  by  the  Executive  Vice-President,  Risk  Management  and  the  Chief  Financial  Officer  and  Executive  Vice-President,  Finance)  is  regularly 
informed of developments and issues to facilitate monitoring and discussion such that issues can be effectively resolved when necessary.  

SSttrraatteeggyy  
The Bank has committed, through its mission, to make a positive impact on its stakeholders. It works to ensure that its commitments are reflected throughout 
its practices, including the transition to a low-carbon economy.  

An identification of environment-related risks and opportunities has helped the Bank to evolve and incorporate climate matters into its internal decision-making. 
There are many opportunities to limit environmental risks—including climate-related risks—and their impacts on the community. With this in mind, the Bank 
plans on offering more solutions whereby clients can increase their presence in low-carbon activities such as renewable energies and responsible investment. 
For example, a program that allows for the issuance of sustainability bonds will enable various organizations, including the Bank itself, to issue debt securities 
to finance projects that meet certain environmental and social criteria. The Bank also provides financial support to environmental organizations whose mission 
is to promote sustainable development and protect biodiversity and natural environments. 

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Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Risk Management 

Over the past year, the Bank has completed a classification of the physical risks and transition-related risks based on each of the industries that make up its 
credit portfolios. In addition, in response to the TCFD’s recommendations, the Bank assessed the proportion of its carbon-related exposures to better understand 
the impacts of climate-related risks and opportunities on its credit portfolios. The results of these assessments will allow the Bank to start by examining its 
investment and asset growth strategy in more detail. They will also help guide the Bank’s climate scenario analyses of these industries in the years to come. The 
Bank will communicate the results of these analyses in an open and transparent manner. The Bank continues to work with its peers to find solutions for more 
accurate and consistent analyses and assessments of climate-related risks and opportunities. It is also a member of several strategic working groups, helping it 
to stay abreast of developments related to ESG risks, particularly climate risks.  

RRiisskk  MMaannaaggeemmeenntt  
Risk Identification, Assessment and Management  
The Bank recognizes the importance of identifying, assessing, and managing climate-related risks. To this end, it proactively monitors all risks as well as its 
segments’ risk exposures in relation to its risk appetite and established limits. Top and emerging risks are risks that could have a material adverse effect on the 
Bank’s financial results, reputation, or long-term business model and strategy. These risks include credit, market, liquidity, operational, and ESG risks as well 
as climate-related risks. In addition, rapidly changing economic, regulatory, technological and business environments may have an impact on certain activities 
or on the Bank as a whole. 

Based on the TCFD's recommendations, the Bank has identified two types of relevant climate-related risks to include in its monitoring activities: physical risks 
and transition-related risks. It defines physical risks as the potential impacts on its physical assets and financial assets arising from more frequent and more 
intense extreme weather events, food insecurity, and energy and resource supply problems related to climate change. The Bank defines transition-related risks 
as the impacts arising from the move toward a low-emission economy. Such impacts include technological changes or public policy directions that could lead to 
a revaluation of the company's assets and result in new costs or new opportunities. The Bank’s definition of transition-related risk also includes market risk and 
reputational risk.  

The Bank ensures that it has processes in place to proactively identify and measure these risks so that it can implement appropriate mitigation strategies. To 
this end, the Bank has implemented an environmental policy that applies to activities and decisions across the Bank as well as in all its business segments. This 
policy  clearly  sets  out  the  established  principles  for  identifying  and  limiting  environmental  risk  as  well  as  the  impacts  on  the  community  and  its  business 
segments.  

Incorporation of Risk 
Given that environmental risk is associated with credit risk and operational risk, the Bank recognizes the importance of incorporating several additional control 
measures into its existing risk management processes.  To this end, risks are regularly reported to the Enterprise-Wide Risk Management Committee.   

The Bank's current approach to controlling risks includes regularly identifying and prioritizing the impacts of physical risks and transitional risks. This applies 
to all industries affected by the Bank's assets. In the interests of proactively ensuring the strategic positioning of its entire portfolio, the Bank has expressed its 
desire to support the energy transition toward a lower-carbon economy. Through its credit adjudication process, it seeks to develop and implement a process 
for assessing and quantifying the impacts of climate change on its strategy and results.  

IInnddiiccaattoorrss  aanndd  OObbjjeeccttiivveess  
Measures Used to Assess Climate-Related Risks and Opportunities 
To date, the Bank has implemented several measures to manage climate-related risks and opportunities related to its investment, funding, and operational 
strategies. Among other things, the Bank calculates its own annual greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and it performs a calculation and analysis of the proportion 
of its carbon-related investments that serves as a guide to discussions about strategic alignment and risk appetite.   

GHG Emissions  
The  Bank  has  carried  out  a  voluntary  annual  inventory  of  its  GHG  emissions  since  2008.  It  reports  the  information  to  the  Carbon  Disclosure  Project,  which 
compiles several types of climate data.  

Objectives for Managing Climate-Related Risks and Opportunities 
The Bank is committed to reducing its environmental footprint by implementing, on a voluntary basis, various eco-responsible measures aimed at calculating 
and reducing its GHG emissions. This includes significant improvements made to the energy efficiency of its facilities over the past 15 years. The Bank has 
implemented an innovative system for managing the energy consumption of 300 branches that uses a web-based interface. As a result, the Bank can monitor its 
facilities in real time with a view to managing its energy consumption more effectively. 

OOuuttllooookk  aanndd  NNeexxtt  SStteeppss  
For the coming year, the Bank will focus its efforts on: 

  growing the proportion of its renewable-energy-related funding assets at a faster pace than those related to fossil fuels; 
  offering to support customers in their energy transitions; 
  developing indicators for effectively monitoring its sustainable development performance; 
 

strengthening its partnerships with the industry's main change agents in order to meet its commitments.  

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Management’s Discussion and Analysis 

CCrriittiiccaall  AAccccoouunnttiinngg  EEssttiimmaatteess  

A summary of the significant accounting policies used by the Bank is presented in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements of this Annual Report. Some 
of these accounting policies are considered critical given their importance to the presentation of the Bank’s financial position and operating results and require 
subjective and complex judgments and estimates on matters that are inherently uncertain. Any change in these judgments and estimates could have a significant 
impact on the Bank’s consolidated financial statements. The critical accounting estimates are as follows. 

CCllaassssiiffiiccaattiioonn  ooff  FFiinnaanncciiaall  IInnssttrruummeennttss  

At  initial  recognition,  all  financial  instruments  are  recorded  at  fair  value  on  the  Consolidated  Balance  Sheet.  At  initial  recognition,  financial  assets  must  be 
classified  as subsequently  measured at  fair value  through other comprehensive  income, at  amortized cost,  or at fair  value  through  profit  or  loss. The  Bank 
determines the classification based on the contractual cash flow characteristics of the financial assets and on the business model it uses to manage these 
financial assets. 

For  the  purpose  of  classifying  a  financial  asset,  the  Bank  must  determine  whether  the  contractual  cash  flows  associated  with  the  financial  asset  are  solely 
payments of principal and interest on the principal amount outstanding. The principal is generally the fair value of the financial asset at initial recognition. The 
interest consists of consideration for the time value of money, for the credit risk associated with the principal amount outstanding during a particular period, 
and for other basic lending risks and costs as well as of a profit margin. If the Bank determines that the contractual cash flows associated with a financial asset 
are not solely payments of principal and interest, the financial assets must be classified as measured at fair value through profit or loss. 

When classifying financial assets, the Bank determines the business model used for each portfolio of financial assets that are managed together to achieve a 
same business objective. The business model reflects how the Bank manages its financial assets and the extent to which the financial asset cash flows are 
generated by the collection of the contractual cash flows, the sale of the financial assets, or both. The Bank determines the business model using scenarios that 
it reasonably expects to occur. Consequently, the business model determination is a matter of fact and requires the use of judgment and consideration of all the 
relevant evidence available at the date of determination. 

A financial asset portfolio falls within a “hold to collect” business model when the Bank’s primary objective is to hold these financial assets in order to collect 
contractual cash flows from them and not to sell them. When the Bank’s objective is achieved both by collecting contractual cash flows and by selling the financial 
assets, the financial asset portfolio falls within a “hold to collect and sell” business model. In this type of business model, collecting contractual cash flows and 
selling  financial  assets  are  both  integral  components  to  achieving  the  Bank’s  objective  for  this  financial  asset  portfolio.  Financial  assets  are  mandatorily 
measured at fair value through profit or loss if they do not fall within either a “hold to collect” business model or a “hold to collect and sell” business model. 

FFaaiirr  VVaalluuee  ooff  FFiinnaanncciiaall  IInnssttrruummeennttss  

The fair value of a financial instrument is the price that would be received to sell a financial asset or paid to transfer a financial liability in an orderly transaction 
in the principal market at the measurement date under current market conditions (i.e., an exit price). 

Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets, based on bid prices for financial assets and offered prices for financial liabilities, provide the best evidence of fair 
value. A financial instrument is considered quoted in an active market when prices in exchange, dealer, broker or principal-to-principal markets are accessible 
at the measurement date. An active market is one where transactions occur with sufficient frequency and volume to provide quoted prices on an ongoing basis. 

When there is no quoted price in an active market, the Bank uses another valuation technique that maximizes the use of relevant observable inputs and minimizes 
the use of unobservable inputs. The chosen valuation technique incorporates all the factors that market participants would consider when pricing a transaction. 
Judgment is required when applying a large number of acceptable valuation techniques and estimates to determine fair value. The estimated fair value reflects 
market conditions on the valuation date and, consequently, may not be indicative of future fair value. 

The best evidence of the fair value of a financial instrument at initial recognition is the transaction price, i.e., the fair value of the consideration received or paid. 
If there is a difference between the fair value at initial recognition and the transaction price, and the fair value is determined using a valuation technique based 
on  observable  market  inputs  or,  in  the  case  of  a  derivative,  if  the  risks  are  fully  offset  by  other  contracts  entered  into  with  third  parties,  this  difference  is 
recognized in  the Consolidated Statement of Income. In other cases, the difference between the fair value at initial recognition  and  the  transaction price  is 
deferred on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. The amount of the deferred gain or loss is recognized over the term of the financial instrument. The unamortized 
balance is immediately recognized in net income when (i) observable market inputs can be obtained and support the fair value of the transaction, (ii) the risks 
associated with the initial contract are substantially offset by other contracts entered into with third parties, (iii) the gain or loss is realized through a cash receipt 
or payment, or (iv) the transaction matures or is cancelled before maturity. 

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Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Critical Accounting Estimates 

In certain cases, measurement adjustments are recognized to address factors that market participants would use at the measurement date to determine fair 
value but that are not included in the measurement technique due to system limitations or uncertainty surrounding the measure. These factors include, but are 
not limited to, the unobservable nature of inputs used in the valuation model, assumptions about risk such as market risk, credit risk, or risk related to the 
valuation model and future administration costs. The Bank may also consider market liquidity risk when determining the fair value of financial instruments when 
it believes these instruments could be disposed of for a consideration below the fair value otherwise determined due to a lack of market liquidity or an insufficient 
volume  of  transactions  in  a  given  market.  The  measurement  adjustments  also  include  the  funding  valuation  adjustment  applied  to  derivative  financial 
instruments to reflect the market implied cost or benefits of funding collateral for uncollateralized or partly collateralized transactions. 

IFRS establishes a fair value hierarchy that classifies the inputs used in financial instrument fair value measurement techniques according to three levels. The 
fair value hierarchy has the following levels: 

Level 1 
Inputs corresponding to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities and accessible to the Bank at the measurement date. 
These  instruments  consist  primarily  of  equity  securities,  derivative  financial  instruments  traded  in  active  markets,  and  certain  highly  liquid  debt  securities 
actively traded in over-the-counter markets. 

Level 2 
Valuation techniques based on inputs, other than the quoted prices included in Level 1 inputs, that are directly or indirectly observable in the market for the 
asset or liability. These inputs are quoted prices of similar instruments in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are 
not active; inputs other than quoted prices used in a valuation model that are observable for that instrument; and inputs that are derived principally from or 
corroborated  by  observable  market  inputs  by  correlation  or  other  means.  These  instruments  consist  primarily  of  certain  loans,  certain  deposits,  derivative 
financial instruments traded in over-the-counter markets, certain debt securities, certain equity securities whose value is not directly observable in an active 
market, liabilities related to transferred receivables as well as certain other liabilities. 

Level 3 
Valuation  techniques  based  on  one  or  more  significant  inputs  that  are  not  observable  in  the  market  for  the  asset  or  liability.  The  Bank  classifies  financial 
instruments in Level 3 when the valuation technique is based on at least one significant input that is not observable in the markets. The valuation technique may 
also be partly based on observable market inputs. Financial instruments whose fair values are classified in Level 3 consist of investments in hedge funds, certain 
derivative financial instruments, equity and debt securities of private companies, certain loans, and certain deposits (structured deposit notes).  

Establishing fair value is an accounting estimate and has an impact on Securities at fair value through profit or loss, certain Loans, Securities at fair value through 
other comprehensive income, Obligations related to securities sold short, Derivative financial instruments, financial instruments designated at fair value through 
profit or loss, and financial instruments designated at fair value through other comprehensive income on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. This estimate also 
has an impact on Non-interest income in the Consolidated Statement of Income of the Financial Markets segment and of the Other heading. Lastly, this estimate 
has  an  impact  on  Other comprehensive income  in  the  Consolidated  Statement  of  Comprehensive  Income.  For  additional  information  on  the  fair  value 
determination of financial instruments, see Notes 3 and 6 to the consolidated financial statements. 

IImmppaaiirrmmeenntt  ooff  FFiinnaanncciiaall  AAsssseettss  

At the end of each reporting period, the Bank applies a three-stage impairment approach to measure the expected credit losses (ECL) on all debt instruments 
measured at amortized cost or at fair value through other comprehensive income and on loan commitments and financial guarantees that are not measured at 
fair value. ECLs are a probability-weighted estimate of credit losses over the remaining expected life of the financial instrument. The ECL model is forward looking. 
Measurement of ECLs at each reporting period reflects reasonable and supportable information about past events, current conditions, and forecasts of future 
events and economic conditions. Judgment is required in making assumptions and estimates, determining movements between the three stages, and applying 
forward-looking information. Any changes in assumptions and estimates, as well as the use of different, but equally reasonable, estimates and assumptions, 
could have an impact on the allowances for credit losses and the provisions for credit losses for the year. All business segments are affected by this accounting 
estimate. For additional information, see Note 7 to the consolidated financial statements. 

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Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Critical Accounting Estimates 

DDeetteerrmmiinniinngg  tthhee  SSttaaggee  
The ECL three-stage impairment approach is based on the change in the credit quality of financial assets since initial recognition. If, at the reporting date, the 
credit risk of non-impaired financial instruments has not increased significantly since initial recognition, these financial instruments are classified in Stage 1, 
and an allowance for credit losses that is measured, at each reporting date, in an amount equal to 12-month expected credit losses is recorded. When there is a 
significant increase in credit risk since initial recognition, these non-impaired financial instruments are migrated to Stage 2, and an allowance for credit losses 
that is measured, at each reporting date, in an amount equal to lifetime expected credit losses is recorded. In subsequent reporting periods, if the credit risk of 
the financial instrument improves such that there is no longer a significant increase in credit risk since initial recognition, the ECL model requires reverting to 
Stage 1, i.e., recognition of 12-month expected credit losses. When one or more events that have a detrimental impact on the estimated future cash flows of a 
financial asset have occurred, the financial asset is considered credit-impaired and is migrated to Stage 3, and an allowance for credit losses equal to lifetime 
expected losses continues to be recorded or the financial asset is written off. Interest income is calculated on the gross carrying amount for financial assets in 
Stages 1 and 2 and on the net carrying amount for financial assets in Stage 3. 

AAsssseessssmmeenntt  ooff  SSiiggnniiffiiccaanntt  IInnccrreeaassee  iinn  CCrreeddiitt  RRiisskk    
In determining whether credit risk has increased significantly, the Bank uses an internal credit risk grading system, external risk ratings, and forward-looking 
information to assess deterioration in credit quality of a financial instrument. To assess whether or not the credit risk of a financial instrument has increased 
significantly, the Bank compares the probability of default (PD) occurring over its expected life as at the reporting date with the PD occurring over its expected 
life  on  the  date  of  initial  recognition  and  considers  reasonable  and  supportable  information  indicative  of  a  significant  increase  in  credit  risk  since  initial 
recognition. The Bank includes relative and absolute thresholds in the definition of significant increase in credit risk and a backstop of 30 days past due. All 
financial instruments that are 30 days past due are migrated to Stage 2 even if other metrics do not indicate that a significant increase in credit risk has occurred. 
The assessment of a significant increase in credit risk requires significant judgment. 

MMeeaassuurreemmeenntt  ooff  EExxppeecctteedd  CCrreeddiitt  LLoosssseess  
ECLs are measured as the probability-weighted present value of all expected cash shortfalls over the remaining expected life of the financial instrument, and 
reasonable  and  supportable  information  about  past  events,  current  conditions  and  forecasts  of  future  events  and  economic  conditions  is  considered.  The 
estimation and application of forward-looking information requires significant judgment. The cash shortfall is the difference between all contractual cash flows 
owed to the Bank and all the cash flows that the Bank expects to receive.  

The measurement of ECLs is primarily based on the product of the financial instrument’s probability of default (PD), loss given default (LGD) and exposure at 
default (EAD). Forward-looking macroeconomic factors such as unemployment rates, housing price indices, interest rates, and gross domestic product (GDP) are 
incorporated  into  the  risk  parameters.  The  estimate  of  expected  credit  losses  reflects  an  unbiased  and  probability-weighted  amount  that  is  determined  by 
evaluating a range of possible outcomes. The Bank incorporates three forward-looking macroeconomic scenarios in its ECL calculation process: a base scenario, 
an upside scenario and a downside scenario. Probability weights are attributed to each scenario. The scenarios and probability weights are reassessed quarterly 
and are subject to management review. The Bank applies experienced credit judgment to adjust the modelled ECL results when it becomes evident that known 
or expected risk factors and information were not considered in the credit risk rating and modelling process. 

ECLs for all financial instruments are recognized in Provisions for credit losses in the Consolidated Statement of Income. In the case of debt instruments measured 
at  fair  value  through  other  comprehensive  income,  ECLs  are  recognized  in  Provisions for credit losses in  the  Consolidated  Statement  of  Income,  and  a 
corresponding amount is recognized in Other comprehensive income with no reduction in the carrying amount of the asset on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. 
As  for  debt  instruments  measured  at  amortized  cost,  they  are  presented  net  of  the  related  allowance  for  credit  losses  on  the  Consolidated  Balance  Sheet. 
Allowances  for  credit  losses  for  off-balance-sheet  credit  exposures  that  are  not  measured  at  fair  value  are  included  in Other liabilities  on  the  Consolidated 
Balance Sheet. 

National Bank of Canada 

97

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
  
 
 
 
    
 
 
 
  
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Critical Accounting Estimates 

PPuurrcchhaasseedd  oorr  OOrriiggiinnaatteedd  CCrreeddiitt--IImmppaaiirreedd  FFiinnaanncciiaall  AAsssseettss  
On initial recognition of a financial asset, the Bank determines whether the asset is credit-impaired. For financial assets that are credit-impaired upon purchase 
or origination, the lifetime expected credit losses are reflected in the initial fair value. In subsequent reporting periods, the Bank recognizes only the cumulative 
changes in these lifetime ECLs since initial recognition as an allowance for credit losses. The Bank recognizes changes in ECLs in Provisions for credit losses in 
the Consolidated Statement of Income, even if the lifetime ECLs are less than ECLs that were included in the estimated cash flows on initial recognition. 

DDeeffiinniittiioonn  ooff  DDeeffaauulltt  
The definition of default used by the Bank to measure ECLs and transfer financial instruments between stages is consistent with the definition of default used 
for internal credit risk management purposes. The Bank considers a financial asset, other than a credit card receivable, to be credit-impaired when one or more 
events that have a detrimental impact on the estimated future cash flows of the financial asset have occurred or when contractual payments are 90 days past 
due. Credit card receivables are considered credit-impaired and are fully written off at the earlier of the following: when a notice of bankruptcy is received, a 
settlement proposal is made, or contractual payments are 180 days past due. 

WWrriittee--OOffffss  
A financial asset and its related allowance for credit losses are normally written off in whole or in part when the Bank considers the probability of recovery to be 
non-existent and when all guarantees and other remedies available to the Bank have been exhausted or if the borrower is bankrupt or winding up and balances 
owing are not likely to be recovered.  

IImmppaaiirrmmeenntt  ooff  NNoonn--FFiinnaanncciiaall  AAsssseettss  

Premises and equipment and intangible assets with finite useful lives are tested for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate that their 
carrying value may not be recoverable. At the end of each reporting period, the Bank determines whether there is an indication that premises and equipment or 
intangible assets with finite useful lives may be impaired. Goodwill and intangible assets that are not yet available for use or that have indefinite useful lives are 
tested for impairment annually or more frequently if there is an indication that the asset might be impaired. 

An asset is tested for impairment by comparing its carrying amount with its recoverable amount. The recoverable amount must be estimated for the individual 
asset. Where it is not possible to estimate the recoverable amount of an individual asset, the recoverable amount of the cash-generating unit (CGU) to which the 
asset belongs will be determined. Goodwill is always tested for impairment at the level of a CGU or a group of CGUs. A CGU is the smallest identifiable group of 
assets that generates cash inflows that are largely independent of the cash inflows from other assets or groups of assets. The Bank uses judgment to identify 
CGUs. 

An asset’s recoverable amount is the higher of fair value less costs to sell and the value in use of the asset or CGU. Value in use is the present value of expected 
future cash flows from the asset or CGU. The recoverable amount of the CGU is determined using valuation models that consider various factors such as projected 
future cash flows, discount rates and growth rates. The use of different estimates and assumptions in applying the impairment tests could have a significant 
impact on income. If the recoverable amount of an asset or a CGU is less than its carrying amount, the carrying amount is reduced to its recoverable amount and 
an impairment loss is recognized in Non-interest expenses in the Consolidated Statement of Income. 

Management exercises judgment when determining whether there is objective evidence that premises and equipment or intangible assets with finite useful lives 
may  be  impaired.  It  also  uses  judgment  in  determining  to  which  CGU  or  group  of  CGUs  an  asset  or  goodwill  is  to  be  allocated.  Moreover,  for  impairment 
assessment purposes, management must make estimates and assumptions regarding the recoverable amount of non-financial assets, CGUs or a group of CGUs. 
For additional information on the estimates and assumptions used to calculate the recoverable amount of an asset or CGU, see Note 11 to the consolidated 
financial statements. 

Any changes to these estimates and assumptions may have an impact on the recoverable amount of a non-financial asset and, consequently, on impairment 
testing results. These accounting estimates have an impact on Premises and equipment, Intangible assets and Goodwill reported on the Consolidated Balance 
Sheet. The aggregate impairment loss, if any, is recognized as a non-interest expense for the corresponding segment and presented in the Other  item. 

EEmmppllooyyeeee  BBeenneeffiittss  ––  PPeennssiioonn  PPllaannss  aanndd  OOtthheerr  PPoosstt--EEmmppllooyymmeenntt  BBeenneeffiittss  

Pension plan and other post-employment plan expenses and obligations are actuarially determined using the projected benefit method prorated on service. The 
calculations incorporate management’s best estimates of various actuarial assumptions such as discount rates, rates of compensation increase, health care 
cost trend rates, mortality rates and retirement age.  

Remeasurements of these plans result in actuarial gains and losses related to the defined benefit obligation and the actual return on plan assets, excluding the 
net interest determined by applying a discount rate to the net asset or liability of the plans. Remeasurements are immediately recognized in Other comprehensive 
income and will not be subsequently reclassified to net income; these cumulative gains and losses are reclassified to Retained earnings. 

98

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Critical Accounting Estimates 

The  use  of  different  assumptions  could  have  a  significant  impact  on  the  defined  benefit  asset  (liability)  presented  in Other assets (Other liabilities)  on  the 
Consolidated Balance Sheet, on the pension plan and other post-employment benefit plan expenses presented in Compensation and employee benefits in the 
Consolidated Statement of Income, as well as on Remeasurements of pension plans and other post-employment benefit plans presented in Other comprehensive 
income. All business segments are affected by this accounting estimate. For additional information, including the significant assumptions used to determine the 
Bank’s  pension  plan  and  other  post-employment  benefit  plan  expenses  and  the  sensitivity  analysis  for  significant  plan  assumptions,  see  Note 23  to  the 
consolidated financial statements. 

IInnccoommee  TTaaxxeess    

The Bank makes assumptions to estimate income taxes as well as deferred tax assets and liabilities. This process includes estimating the actual amount of 
income taxes payable and evaluating tax loss carryforwards and temporary differences arising from differences between the values of the items reported for 
accounting and for income tax purposes. Deferred tax assets and liabilities, presented in Other assets and Other liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheet, 
are calculated according to the tax rates to be applied in future periods. Previously recorded deferred tax assets and liabilities must be adjusted when the date 
of the future event is revised based on current information. The Bank periodically evaluates deferred tax assets to assess recoverability. In the Bank’s opinion, 
based on the information at its disposal, it is probable that all deferred tax assets will be realized prior to their expiration. 

This accounting estimate affects Income taxes in the Consolidated Statement of Income for all business segments. For additional information on income taxes, 
see Notes 1 and 24 to the consolidated financial statements. 

CCoonnttiinnggeenntt  LLiiaabbiilliittiieess  

MMaappllee  FFiinnaanncciiaall  GGrroouupp  IInncc..  
The Bank has a 24.9% equity interest in Maple Financial Group Inc. (Maple), a privately owned Canadian company that operated through direct and indirect 
wholly owned subsidiaries in Canada, Germany, the United Kingdom and the United States. 

Maple Bank GmbH (Maple GmbH), an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Maple, has been the subject of an investigation into alleged tax irregularities by German 
prosecutors since September 2015 and, to the Bank’s knowledge, that investigation is ongoing. The Bank understands that the investigation is focusing on 
selected trading activities by Maple GmbH and some of its former employees, primarily during taxation years 2006 to 2010. The German authorities have alleged 
that these trading activities, often referred to as “cum/ex trading,” violated German tax laws. Neither the Bank nor its employees were involved in these trading 
activities and, to the Bank’s knowledge, are not the subject of this investigation. At that time, the Bank announced that if it were determined that portions of the 
dividends it received from Maple could be reasonably attributed to tax fraud by Maple GmbH, arrangements would be made to repay those amounts to the 
relevant authority. 

On February 6, 2016, the German Federal Financial Supervisory Authority, BaFin, placed a moratorium on the business activities of Maple GmbH preventing it 
from carrying out its normal business activities. In August 2016, Maple filed for bankruptcy under applicable Canadian laws, and a trustee was appointed to 
administer the company. Similar proceedings were initiated for each of Maple’s other material subsidiaries in their home jurisdictions. In light of the situation, 
the Bank wrote off the carrying value of its equity interest in Maple in an amount of $164 million ($145 million net of income taxes) during the first quarter of 
2016. The $164 million write-off of the equity interest in this associate was recognized in the Non-interest income – Other item of the Consolidated Statement 
of Income for the year ended October 31, 2016 and was reported in the Financial Markets segment. 

While there has not yet been a determination of tax fraud on the part of Maple GmbH or its employees, in the insolvency proceedings of Maple GmbH the German 
finance office issued a declaration about the result of the tax audit at Maple GmbH and about the relevant tax consequences of the cum/ex trading and concluded 
a final tax claim of the tax authorities against the insolvency administrator. This claim was approved by the Maple GmbH creditor assembly.   

The Bank has been in contact with the German prosecutors, who have confirmed that, in their view based upon the evidence they have considered since the 
occurrence of the insolvency, the Bank was not involved in any respect with the alleged tax fraud undertaken by Maple GmbH nor was it negligent in failing to 
identify that alleged fraud. Further to discussions between the Bank and the German prosecutors concerning the amounts deemed attributable to the alleged 
tax fraud, the Bank paid 7.7 million euros to the German tax authorities on November 19, 2019. 

The Bank has been engaging in discussions with the bankruptcy and insolvency administrators of relevant Maple entities regarding potential claims they may 
assert against Maple’s former shareholders in relation to the insolvency of Maple and its subsidiaries. The Bank does not see a legal basis for any such liability 
but is nevertheless continuing discussions at this time. If any payments are required, they are not expected to be material to the Bank’s financial position. 

National Bank of Canada 

99

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
  
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Critical Accounting Estimates 

LLiittiiggaattiioonn  

In the normal course of business, the Bank and its subsidiaries are involved in various claims relating, among other matters, to loan portfolios, investment 
portfolios and supplier agreements, including court proceedings, investigations or claims of a regulatory nature, class actions or other legal remedies of varied 
natures.  

More specifically, the Bank is involved as a defendant in class actions instituted by consumers contesting, inter alia, certain transaction fees or who wish to avail 
themselves of certain legislative provisions relating to consumer protection. The recent developments in the main legal proceedings involving the Bank are as 
follows: 

WWaattssoonn  
In 2011, a class action was filed in the Supreme Court of British Columbia against Visa Corporation Canada (Visa) and MasterCard International Incorporated 
(MasterCard) (the Networks) as well as National Bank and a number of other Canadian financial institutions. A similar action was also initiated in Quebec, Ontario, 
Alberta and Saskatchewan. In each of the actions, the Networks and financial institutions are alleged to have been involved in a price-fixing system to maintain 
and increase the fees paid by merchants on transactions executed using the credit cards of the Networks. In so doing, they would notably be in breach of the 
Competition Act. An unspecified amount of compensatory and punitive damages is being claimed. In 2017, a settlement was reached with the plaintiffs; in 2018 
it was approved by the trial courts in each of the five jurisdictions where the action was initiated. The rulings approving the settlement are now the subject of 
appeal proceedings in multiple jurisdictions. 

DDeeffrraannccee  
On January 21, 2019, the Quebec Superior Court authorized a class action against the Bank and several other Canadian financial institutions. The originating 
application was served to the Bank on April 23, 2019. The class action was initiated on behalf of consumers residing in Quebec. The plaintiffs allege that non-
sufficient funds charges, billed by all of the defendants when a payment order is refused due to non-sufficient funds, are illegal and prohibited by the Consumer 
Protection Act. The plaintiffs are claiming, in the form of damages, the repayment of these charges as well as punitive damages. 

It is impossible to determine the outcome of the claims instituted or which may be instituted against the Bank and its subsidiaries. The Bank estimates, based 
on the information at its disposal, that while the amount of contingent liabilities pertaining to these claims, taken individually or in the aggregate, could have a 
material impact on the Bank’s consolidated results of operation for a particular period, it would not have a material adverse impact on the Bank’s consolidated 
financial position.  

Provisions are liabilities of uncertain timing and amount. A provision is recognized when the Bank has a present obligation (legal or constructive) arising from a 
past event, when it is probable that an outflow of economic resources will be required to settle the obligation and when the amount of the obligation can be 
reliably estimated. Provisions are based on the Bank’s best estimates of the economic resources required to settle the present obligation, given all relevant risks 
and uncertainties, and, when it is significant, the effect of the time value of money.  

The recognition of a litigation provision requires the Bank’s management to assess the probability of loss and estimate any potential monetary impact. The Bank 
examines each litigation provision individually by considering the development of each case, its past experience in similar transactions and the opinion of its 
legal counsel. Each new piece of information can alter the Bank’s assessment as to the probability and estimated amount of the loss and the extent to which it 
adjusts the recorded provision. Moreover, the actual settlement cost of these litigations can be significantly higher or lower than the amounts recognized. 

SSttrruuccttuurreedd  EEnnttiittiieess  

In the normal course of business, the Bank enters into arrangements and transactions with structured entities. Structured entities are entities designed so that 
voting or similar rights are not the dominant factor in deciding who controls the entity, such as when voting rights relate solely to administrative tasks and the 
relevant  activities  are  directed  by  means  of  contractual  arrangements.  A  structured  entity  is  consolidated  when  the  Bank  concludes,  after  evaluating  the 
substance  of  the  relationship  and  its  right  or  exposure  to  variable  returns,  that  it  controls  that  entity.  Management  must  exercise  judgment  in  determining 
whether the Bank controls an entity. Additional information is provided in the Securitization and Off-Balance-Sheet Arrangements section of this MD&A and in 
Note 27 to the consolidated financial statements. 

100

100 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 

FFuuttuurree  AAccccoouunnttiinngg  PPoolliiccyy  CChhaannggeess 

The IASB issues revisions and amendments to a number of standards, some of which have already had an impact on the Bank and others that could have an 
impact in the future. The Bank is currently assessing the impact that adoption of the following standards will have on its consolidated financial statements. A 
summary of these amendments and the effective dates applicable to the Bank are presented below.  

EEffffeeccttiivvee  DDaattee  ––  NNoovveemmbbeerr  11,,  22001199  
IFRS 16 – Leases 
In  January  2016,  the  IASB  issued  IFRS  16  –  Leases.  The  new  standard  replaces  the  previous  lease  accounting  standard,  IAS  17  –  Leases,  and  related 
interpretations. Under IAS 17, lessees and lessors were required to classify their leases as either finance leases or operating leases and to account for these two 
types of leases differently. IFRS 16 provides a single accounting model for lessees, requiring lessees to recognize a right-of-use asset as well as a liability that 
reflects the present value of future lease payments. Lessees will also recognize depreciation expense on the right-of-use asset and interest expense on the lease 
liability  in  the  Consolidated  Statement  of  Income.  As  for  lessors,  IFRS 16  substantially  carries  forward  the  lessor  accounting  in  IAS  17,  with  the  distinction 
between finance and operating leases being retained.  

The Bank has elected to apply IFRS 16 using the modified retrospective basis by adjusting the Consolidated Balance Sheet as at November 1, 2019, the date of 
initial application, with no restatement of comparative periods. The most significant impact to the Bank will be related to real estate leases, which are currently 
classified as operating leases.  

On transition, the Bank will apply, on a lease-by-lease basis, certain practical expedients. More specifically, it will measure the right-of-use assets at an amount 
equal to the lease liability, it will rely on the Bank’s assessment about whether leases are onerous as at October 31, 2019 as an alternative to performing an 
impairment  test  as  at  November  1,  2019,  and  it  will  exclude  initial  direct  costs  from  the  measurement  of  the  right-of-use  assets  as  at  November 1,  2019. 
Furthermore, on transition and thereafter, the Bank will exclude leases for which the underlying asset is of low value, will exclude short-term leases and, for real 
estate leases, will elect not to separate non-lease components from lease components.  

As at October 31, 2019, the Bank’s best estimate of the impact of adopting IFRS 16 is an increase in total assets of approximately $653 million representing 
leased premises, an increase in total liabilities of approximately $653 million primarily representing lease liabilities, and a decrease of approximately 9 basis 
points in the Common Equity Tier 1 (CET 1) capital ratio as at November 1, 2019. 

IFRIC Interpretation 23 – Uncertainty Over Income Tax Treatments 
In June 2017, the IASB issued IFRIC Interpretation 23, which addresses how to reflect tax treatment uncertainty in accounting for income taxes. This interpretation 
will not have an impact on the Bank’s Consolidated Balance Sheet as at November 1, 2019. 

EEffffeeccttiivvee  DDaattee  ––  NNoovveemmbbeerr  11,,  22002200  
Conceptual Framework for Financial Reporting 
On  March 29, 2018, the IASB published Conceptual Framework for Financial Reporting to replace  its 2010 conceptual framework. For the IASB, the revised 
conceptual framework has been in effect since its publication date. Early application is permitted. 

Reform to Benchmark Interest Rates (Amendments to IFRS 9, IAS 39 and IFRS 7) 
In September 2019, in response to uncertainty arising from the phasing-out of benchmark interest rates such as interbank offered rates (IBORs), the IASB issued 
amendments  to  its  new  and  former  financial  instrument  standards,  IFRS  9  – Financial Instruments  and  IAS  39  –  Financial Instruments: Recognition and 
Measurement as well as to the related standard on disclosures, IFRS 7 – Financial Instruments: Disclosures.  

The amendments modify certain hedge accounting requirements in IFRS 9 and IAS 39 to provide relief from the potential effects of the uncertainty caused by the 
IBOR reform. In addition, the amendments to IFRS 7 require additional disclosure about hedging relationships directly affected by this uncertainty. When the 
Bank adopted IFRS 9 on November 1, 2017, it made an accounting policy choice to continue applying the IAS 39 hedge accounting requirements.  

For the Bank, the effective date of these amendments is November 1, 2020. However, early adoption is permitted. 

EEffffeeccttiivvee  DDaattee  ––  NNoovveemmbbeerr  11,,  22002211  
IFRS 17 – Insurance Contracts 
In May 2017, the IASB issued IFRS 17 – Insurance Contracts, a new standard that replaces IFRS 4, the current insurance contract accounting standard. IFRS 17 
introduces a new accounting framework that will improve the comparability and quality of financial information. At its meeting on November 14, 2018, the IASB 
tentatively decided to defer the IFRS 17 effective date to fiscal years beginning on or after January 1, 2022.   

National Bank of Canada 

101

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 

Additional Financial Information 

Table 1 – Quarterly Results 

(millions of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts) 

SSttaatteemmeenntt  ooff  iinnccoommee  ddaattaa  
Net interest income 
Non-interest income(1) 
TToottaall  rreevveennuueess  
Provisions for credit losses 
Non-interest expenses(2) 
Income taxes  
NNeett  iinnccoommee  
Non-controlling interests 
NNeett  iinnccoommee  aattttrriibbuuttaabbllee  ttoo  tthhee  BBaannkk’’ss  sshhaarreehhoollddeerrss  

EEaarrnniinnggss  ppeerr  ccoommmmoonn  sshhaarree  
  Basic 
  Diluted 

DDiivviiddeennddss  (per share)  
  Common 
  Preferred 
    Series 28 
    Series 30 
    Series 32 
    Series 34 
    Series 36 
    Series 38 
    Series 40 
    Series 42 

TToottaall

QQ44

QQ33  

QQ22  

33,,559966
33,,883366
77,,443322  
334477
44,,330011
446622
22,,332222
6666
22,,225566  

993366
997799
11,,991155  
8899
11,,009955
112277
660044
1144
559900  

885555     
11,,009933     
11,,994488     
8866     
11,,115544     
110000     
660088     
1177     
559911     

994422
882288
11,,777700  
8844
11,,002266
110022
555588
1199
553399  

22001199
QQ11

886633   
993366   
11,,779999   
8888   
11,,002266   
113333   
555522   
1166   
553366   

  $$

$$

66..3399
66..3344

$$

11..6688
11..6677

11..6688    $$ 
11..6666     

$$

11..5522
11..5511

11..5511   
11..5500   

  $$

22..6666

$$

00..6688

$$

00..6688    $$ 

00..6655

$$

00..6655   

−−
11..00115566
00..99775500
11..44000000
11..33550000
11..11112255
11..11550000
11..22337755

−−
00..22551155
00..22443377
00..33550000
00..33337755
00..22778811
00..22887755
00..33009944

−−     
00..22551166     
00..22443388     
00..33550000     
00..33337755     
00..22778811     
00..22887755     
00..33009933     

−−
00..22556622
00..22443377
00..33550000
00..33337755
00..22778822
00..22887755
00..33009944

−−   
00..22556633   
00..22443388   
00..33550000   
00..33337755   
00..22778811   
00..22887755   
00..33009944   

RReettuurrnn  oonn  ccoommmmoonn  sshhaarreehhoollddeerrss’’  eeqquuiittyy  

1188..00 %%

1188..22 %%

1188..77    %% 

1177..88 %%

1177..22 %%    

TToottaall  aasssseettss  

LLoonngg--tteerrmm  ffiinnaanncciiaall  lliiaabbiilliittiieess(3)  

NNeett  iimmppaaiirreedd  llooaannss(4)  uunnddeerr  IIFFRRSS  99  
NNeett  iimmppaaiirreedd  llooaannss  uunnddeerr  IIAASS  3399  

NNuummbbeerr  ooff  ccoommmmoonn  sshhaarreess  oouuttssttaannddiinngg  (thousands)  
  Average – Basic 
  Average – Diluted 
  End of period 

PPeerr  ccoommmmoonn  sshhaarree  
  Book value 
  Share price 
    High 
    Low 
NNuummbbeerr  ooff  eemmppllooyyeeeess  –  WWoorrllddwwiiddee  
NNuummbbeerr  ooff  bbrraanncchheess  iinn  CCaannaaddaa  

228811,,445588  

227766,,331122     

226699,,110066  

226633,,335555   

777733

445500

777733     

442200     

777722

337799

776644   

337733   

333355,,110044  
333377,,663300

333344,,339933  
333366,,990000
333344,,117722  

333344,,884433     
333377,,776688     
333344,,221100     

333355,,447788  
333388,,551155
333355,,111166  

333355,,771166   
333388,,558855   
333355,,550000   

$$

3366..8899

$$

3366..1122    $$ 

3355..4499

$$

3344..8855   

  $$

6688..0022
5544..9977

6688..0022
6600..3388
2255,,448877
442222

6644..1166     
6600..7711     
2244,,888811     
442299     

6633..8822
6600..3311
2244,,113377
442288

6611..8800   
5544..9977   
2233,,996600   
442288   

(1) 

(2) 

(3) 
(4) 

For fiscal 2019, the Non-interest income item includes a $79 million gain on disposal of Fiera Capital Corporation shares, a $50 million gain on disposal of premises and equipment, and a $33 
million loss resulting from the fair value measurement of an investment. 
For fiscal 2019, the Non-interest expenses item includes $57 million in impairment losses on premises and equipment and on intangible assets, $45 million in provisions for onerous contracts, 
an $11 million charge related to Maple, and $10 million in severance pay.  
Subordinated debt. 
Given the adoption of IFRS 9, all loans classified in Stage 3 of the expected credit loss model are impaired loans; the net impaired loans presented in this table exclude POCI loans. Under 
IAS 39, loans were considered impaired according to different criteria. Net impaired loans are presented net of allowances for credit losses on Stage 3 loan amounts drawn. 

102

102 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
     
 
 
     
 
 
 
    
  
     
  
     
  
     
  
     
  
  
 
    
 
    
 
    
 
    
 
    
 
    
 
    
 
    
 
    
 
    
   
 
  
 
 
    
 
     
    
   
 
  
 
    
   
 
  
 
 
    
   
 
  
 
    
 
    
 
    
 
    
 
    
 
    
 
    
 
    
 
     
    
   
 
  
 
    
     
    
   
 
  
 
    
 
 
 
     
    
   
 
  
 
    
 
     
    
   
 
  
 
    
 
    
   
 
  
 
     
    
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
  
 
    
   
 
  
 
    
 
    
 
    
 
 
 
     
    
   
 
  
 
    
   
 
  
 
    
 
    
   
 
  
 
 
    
 
    
 
    
 
 
 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Additional Financial Information 

Total 

Q4 

Q3 

Q2

3,382   
3,784   
7,166   
327   
4,063   
544   
2,232   
87   
2,145   

826   
988   
1,814   
73   
1,036   
139   
566   
16   
550   

837   
955   
1,792   
76   
1,011   
136   
569   
23   
546   

885
869
1,754
91
992
124
547
25
522

2018  
Q1  

834  
972
1,806
87
1,024
145
550  
23
527

Total

Q4

Q3 

Q2

3,436
3,173
6,609
244
3,857
484
2,024
84
1,940

881
823
1,704
70
976
133
525
19
506

887   
788   
1,675   
58   
971   
128   
518   
24   
494   

815
782
1,597
56
941
116
484
22
462

2017    
Q1

853     
780     
1,633     
60     
969     
107     
497     
19     
478     

  $ 

6.01    $ 
5.94   

1.53    $ 
1.52   

1.54    $ 
1.52   

$

1.46
1.44

1.48
1.46

  $ 

2.44    $ 

0.62    $ 

0.62    $ 

0.60

$

0.60

–   
1.0250   
0.9750   
1.4000   
1.3500   
1.1125   
0.9310   
0.5323   

–   
0.2562   
0.2437   
0.3500   
0.3375   
0.2781   
0.2875   
0.5323   

–   
0.2563   
0.2438   
0.3500   
0.3375   
0.2781   
0.2875   
–   

–
0.2562
0.2437
0.3500
0.3375
0.2782
0.3560
–

–
0.2563
0.2438
0.3500
0.3375
0.2781
–
–

$

$

$

5.44
5.38

$

1.40
1.39

1.39    $ 
1.37   

$

1.30
1.28

1.35   
1.34     

2.28

$

0.58

$

0.58    $ 

0.56

$

0.56   

0.9500
1.0250
0.9750
1.4000
1.3500
0.4724
–
–

0.2375
0.2562
0.2437
0.3500
0.3375
0.4724
–
–

0.2375   
0.2563   
0.2438   
0.3500   
0.3375   
–   
–   
–   

0.2375
0.2562
0.2437
0.3500
0.3375
–
–
–

0.2375     
0.2563     
0.2438     
0.3500     
0.3375     
–     
–     
–     

18.4    % 

17.8    % 

18.4    % 

18.6 %

18.7 %

18.1 %

17.8 %

18.2    % 

17.9 %

18.4  %

262,471   

257,637   

256,259

251,065

245,827

240,072   

239,020

234,119     

747   

404   

753   

413   

755

382

8

371

9

9   

10

1,009     

206

240   

213

226     

339,372   
343,240   

337,508   
341,395   
335,071   

339,160   
343,280   
337,441   

339,885
343,900
339,348

340,950
345,458
340,390

340,809
344,771

341,108
345,507
339,592

341,555   
345,353   
341,580   

341,107
345,416
341,524

339,476     
343,270     
340,810     

  $ 

34.40    $ 

33.91    $ 

32.64

$

31.75

$

31.51

$

30.84    $ 

29.97

$

29.51     

  $ 

65.63   
58.69   

65.63   
58.93   
23,450   
428   

64.29   
61.26   
23,029   
428   

64.08
58.69
22,359
428

65.35
62.33
21,868
429

$

62.74
46.83

62.74
55.29
21,635
429

56.44   
51.77   
21,526   
443   

58.75
52.94
21,290
445

56.60     
46.83     
21,295     
448     

National Bank of Canada 

103

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
  
 
  
 
  
  
  
 
  
 
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
  
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
  
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
  
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
  
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
  
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
  
  
 
  
  
 
 
  
  
 
 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Additional Financial Information 

TTaabbllee  22  ––  OOvveerrvviieeww  ooff  RReessuullttss  

Year ended October 31 
(taxable equivalent basis)(1) 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Net interest income on a taxable equivalent basis 
Non-interest income on a taxable equivalent basis(2) 
Total revenues on a taxable equivalent basis 
Non-interest expenses(3) 
Contribution on a taxable equivalent basis 
Provisions for credit losses 
Income before income taxes on a taxable equivalent basis 
Income taxes on a taxable equivalent basis 
Net income 
Non-controlling interests 
Net income attributable to the Bank’s  
  shareholders 
Average assets 

22001199  

2018 

2017 

2016    

2015  

33,,779911  
33,,997711
77,,776622
44,,330011
33,,446611
334477
33,,111144  
779922
22,,332222
6666

3,526  
3,885
7,411
4,063
3,348
327
3,021  
789
2,232
87

3,645     
3,208     
6,853     
3,857     
2,996     
244     
2,752     
728     
2,024     
84     

3,436  
2,639
6,075
3,875
2,200
484
1,716  
460
1,256
75

3,240   
2,817   
6,057   
3,665   
2,392   
228   
2,164   
545   
1,619   
70   

22,,225566
228866,,116622  

2,145
265,940  

1,940     
248,351     

1,181
235,913  

1,549   
222,929   

(1) 
(2) 

(3) 

See the Financial Reporting Method section on pages 14 and 15 for additional information on non-GAAP financial measures.  
For fiscal 2019, the Non-interest income item includes a $79 million gain on disposal of Fiera Capital Corporation shares, a $50 million gain on disposal of premises and equipment, and a $33 
million loss resulting from the fair value measurement of an investment. 
For fiscal 2019, the Non-interest expenses item includes $57 million in impairment losses on premises and equipment and on intangible assets, $45 million in provisions for onerous contracts, 
an $11 million charge related to Maple, and $10 million in severance pay.  

TTaabbllee  33  ––  CChhaannggeess  iinn  NNeett  IInntteerreesstt  IInnccoommee(1)  

Year ended October 31 
(taxable equivalent basis)(2) 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

PPeerrssoonnaall  aanndd  CCoommmmeerrcciiaall(1)  
Net interest income 
Average assets 
Average interest-bearing assets 
Net interest margin(3) 

WWeeaalltthh  MMaannaaggeemmeenntt(1)  
Net interest income on a taxable equivalent basis 
Average assets 

FFiinnaanncciiaall  MMaarrkkeettss  
Net interest income on a taxable equivalent basis 
Average assets 

UUSSSSFF&&II  
Net interest income 
Average assets 

OOtthheerr  
Net interest income on a taxable equivalent basis 
Average assets 

TToottaall  
Net interest income on a taxable equivalent basis 
Average assets 

22001199  

2018 

2017 

2016 

2015 

22,,338833
111122,,779988
110066,,999955

2,276
106,857
101,446

2,127   
102,139   
97,339   

2,011
97,741
92,660

1,917   
92,090   
86,543   

22..2233 %%

2.24 %

2.19  %   

2.17 %

2.22  %   

447700
66,,221199

446
6,167

447744

111122,,449933  

409

100,721  

665566
1100,,998855

((119922))
4433,,666677

584
9,270

(189)
42,925

373   
5,947   

772   
94,991   

466   
7,519   

(93)  
37,755   

316
5,612

266   
5,275   

938
87,491  

1,001   
86,466   

284
5,319

205   
2,275   

(113)
39,750

(149)  
36,823   

33,,779911
228866,,116622  

3,526
265,940  

3,645   
248,351   

3,436
235,913  

3,240   
222,929   

(1) 

(2) 
(3) 

For fiscal years prior to 2019, certain amounts have been reclassified, mainly amounts related to advisor banking service activities, which have been transferred from the Wealth Management 
segment to the Personal and Commercial segment.  
See the Financial Reporting Method section on pages 14 and 15 for additional information on non-GAAP financial measures. 
Net interest margin is calculated by dividing net interest income by average interest-bearing assets. 

104

104 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
   
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
  
   
   
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
   
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
  
   
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
    
  
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Additional Financial Information 

TTaabbllee  44  ––  NNoonn--IInntteerreesstt  IInnccoommee  

Year ended October 31 
(taxable equivalent basis)(1) 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Underwriting and advisory fees 
Securities brokerage commissions 
Mutual fund revenues 
Trust service revenues 
Credit fees 
Revenues from acceptances, letters of   
  credit and guarantee 
Card revenues 
Deposit and payment service charges 
Trading revenues (losses) on a taxable equivalent basis 
Gains (losses) on available-for-sale 

 securities, net 

Gains (losses) on non-trading 

 securities, net 

Insurance revenues, net 
Foreign exchange revenues, other than trading 
Share in the net income of associates and 
  joint ventures 
Other(2) 

Canada 
United States 
Other countries 
Non-interest income on a taxable equivalent 
  basis as a % of total revenues on a  
  taxable equivalent basis(1) 
Non-interest income on a taxable equivalent basis  
  and excluding specified items as a % of total  
  revenues on a taxable equivalent basis and  
  excluding specified items(1) 

22001199    

331144  
117788
444499  
660099
113344  

228833  
117755
227711  
996644

7777
113366  
9966

3344
225511  

33,,997711
33,,663377
8844
225500

2018 

388  
195
438  
587
126  

277  
159
280  
941

77
121  
95

28
173  

3,885
3,589
108
188

2017 

2016 

349  
216
412  
518
130  

231  
132
279  
409

140

117  
81

35
159  

3,208
3,027
136
45

376   
235 
364   
453 
110   

236   
119 
258   
154 

70 

114   
81 

15 
54   
2,639 
2,434 
124 
81 

2015  

387   
273   
320   
446   
112   

223   
128   
238   
209   

82   

107   
88   

26   
178   
2,817   
2,737   
72   
8   

5511..22 %%

52.4 %

46.8 %   

43.4  %

46.5  %   

5500..55 %%

52.4 %

46.8 %   

45.0  %

45.4  %   

(1) 
(2) 

See the Financial Reporting Method section on pages 14 and 15 for additional information on non-GAAP financial measures. 
For fiscal 2019, other revenues includes a $79 million gain on disposal of Fiera Capital Corporation shares, a $50 million gain on disposal of premises and equipment, and a $33 million loss 
resulting from the fair value measurement of an investment. 

TTaabbllee  55  ––  TTrraaddiinngg  AAccttiivviittyy  RReevveennuueess(1)    

Year ended October 31 
(taxable equivalent basis)(2) 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

FFiinnaanncciiaall  mmaarrkkeettss  

 Equities 
 Fixed-income 
 Commodities and foreign exchange 

OOtthheerr  sseeggmmeennttss  

22001199       

2018  

2017  

2016  

2015  

662244
228899
112266
11,,003399

116600  

11,,119999

576
267
130
973
176  

506
294
107
907
97  

1,149

1,004

438 
263 
116 
817 
80   
897 

450   
237   
147   
834   
151   
985   

(1) 
(2) 

Includes net interest income on a taxable equivalent basis and non-interest income on a taxable equivalent basis. 
See the Financial Reporting Method section on pages 14 and 15 for additional information on non-GAAP financial measures. 

National Bank of Canada 

105

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
  
  
 
   
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
    
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
  
 
 
  
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Additional Financial Information 

TTaabbllee  66  ––  NNoonn--IInntteerreesstt  EExxppeennsseess  

Year ended October 31 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Compensation and employee benefits(1) 
Occupancy(2) 
Technology 
Amortization – Premises and equipment 
Amortization – Technology(3) 
Communications 
Professional fees 
Restructuring charge(4) 
Travel and business development 
Capital and payroll taxes 
Other(5) 
Total 
Canada 
United States 
Other countries  
Non-interest expenses as a % of total  
  revenues on a taxable equivalent basis(6) 
Non-interest expenses as a % of total  
  revenues on a taxable equivalent basis 
  and excluding specified items(6) 

22001199  

22,,553322

225544  
337722
4444  
333322
6622  
224499

−−  

112288
7700  
225588
44,,330011
33,,993311
221100
116600

2018 

2,466

193  
375
43  
245
63  
244

−  

128
79  
227
4,063
3,750
205
108

2017 

2,358

195  
364
41  
204
61  
254

−  

122
73  
185
3,857
3,571
209
77

2016 

2,161   
195   
367   
38   
220   
67   
276   
131   
120   
71   
229   
3,875   
3,601   
235   
39   

2015 

2,160   
185   
352   
38   
182   
69   
233   
86   
113   
69   
178   
3,665   
3,457   
192   
16   

5555..44 %%

54.8 %

56.3 %

63.8  %

60.5  %  

5544..55 %%

54.8 %

56.3 %

58.6  %

59.1  %  

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 
(4) 

(5) 
(6) 

For fiscal 2019, compensation and employee benefits include $10 million in severance pay. 
For fiscal 2019, occupancy expense includes $45 million in provisions for onerous contracts. 
For fiscal 2019, the Amortization – Technology expense includes $57 million in impairment losses on premises and equipment and on intangible assets. 
The fiscal 2016 restructuring charge had included $129 million in compensation and employee benefits and $2 million in occupancy expenses, and the fiscal 2015 restructuring charge had 
included $51 million in compensation and employee benefits and $35 million in other charges such as occupancy expenses and professional fees. 
For fiscal 2019, other expenses include an $11 million charge related to Maple; the fiscal 2016 other expenses had included $25 million in litigation charges.  
See the Financial Reporting Method section on pages 14 and 15 for additional information on non-GAAP financial measures. 

106

106 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
  
  
   
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Additional Financial Information 

TTaabbllee  77  ––  PPrroovviissiioonnss  ffoorr  CCrreeddiitt  LLoosssseess(1)  

Year ended October 31 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

  PPeerrssoonnaall  BBaannkkiinngg(3)(4)  
    Stage 3 
    Stages 1 and 2 

  CCoommmmeerrcciiaall  BBaannkkiinngg  
    Stage 3 
    Stages 1 and 2(5) 

  WWeeaalltthh  MMaannaaggeemmeenntt(4)  
    Stage 3 
    Stages 1 and 2 

  FFiinnaanncciiaall  MMaarrkkeettss  
    Stage 3 
    Stages 1 and 2 

  UUSSSSFF&&II  
    Stage 3 
    Stages 1 and 2 
    POCI loans 

  OOtthheerr  
    Stage 3 
    Stages 1 and 2(6) 

TToottaall  pprroovviissiioonnss  ffoorr  ccrreeddiitt  lloosssseess  

Average loans and acceptances 
Provisions for credit losses on impaired loans(1) 
 as a % of average loans and acceptances 

Provisions for credit losses 
  as a % of average loans and acceptances 

22001199  

2018 

2017(2) 

2016(2) 

2015(2)  

116666  
88
117744

3355
2288
6633  

−−
−−
−−

1188  
1122
3300

9944
((2244))
1100
8800

−−
−−
−−

334477

158  
9
167

40
21
61  

−
1
1

−  
4
4

126
(3)
(29)
94

−
−
−

327

153  
−
153

43
(40)
3  

−
−
−

−  
−
−

48
−
−
48

−
40
40

156   
− 
156 

73 
250 
323   

1 
− 
1 

−   
− 
− 

4 
− 
− 
4 

− 
− 
− 

165   
−   
165   

63   
−   
63   

−   
−   
−   

−   
−   
−   

−   
−   
−   
−   

−   
−   
−   

244

484 

228   

114488,,776655

139,603

130,882

122,559 

108,740   

00..2211 %%

0.23 %

0.19 %   

0.19  %

0.21  %   

00..2233 %%

0.23 %

0.19 %   

0.39  %

0.21  %   

(1) 

(2) 
(3) 
(4) 

(5) 

(6) 

Given the adoption of IFRS 9, all loans classified in Stage 3 of the expected credit loss model are impaired loans. Under IAS 39, loans were considered impaired according to different criteria. 
Provisions for credit losses on impaired loans presented in this table exclude provisions for credit losses on POCI loans. 
These figures are presented in accordance with IAS 39. 
Includes credit card receivables. 
For fiscal years prior to 2019, certain amounts have been reclassified, as amounts related to advisor banking service activities were transferred from the Wealth Management segment to the 
Personal and Commercial segment.  
During fiscal 2017, the Bank recorded a $40 million reversal of the sectoral provision on non-impaired loans that had been taken collectively for the oil and gas producer and service company 
loan portfolio. In addition, the fiscal 2016 provisions for credit losses had included a $250 million amount related to the initial recording of this sectoral provision. 
During fiscal 2017, the provisions for credit losses had included a $40 million increase in the collective allowance for credit risk on non-impaired loans, which was established taking into 
account the Bank’s overall credit portfolio, except for loans covered by the sectoral allowance and POCI loans. 

National Bank of Canada 

107

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
     
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
     
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
     
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
     
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
     
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
     
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
     
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
  
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Additional Financial Information 

TTaabbllee  88  ––  CChhaannggee  iinn  AAvveerraaggee  VVoolluummeess  

Year ended October 31 
(taxable equivalent basis)(1) 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

AAsssseettss  
Deposits with financial institutions 
Securities 
Securities purchased under reverse 
  repurchase agreements and  
  securities borrowed 
Residential mortgage loans 
Personal loans 
Credit card receivables 
Business and government loans 
POCI loans 
Interest-bearing assets 
Other assets 
Total assets 

LLiiaabbiilliittiieess  aanndd  eeqquuiittyy  
Personal deposits 
Deposit-taking institutions 
Other deposits 

Subordinated debt 
Obligations other than deposits 
Interest-bearing liabilities 
Other liabilities 
Equity 
Liabilities and equity 
Net interest margin 

AAvveerraaggee  
vvoolluummee  
$$  

22001199    

RRaattee  
%%   

Average 
volume 
$ 

2018(2)  

Rate 
%  

Average 
volume 
$ 

2017(2)  

Rate 
%  

Average 
volume 
$ 

2016(2)  

Rate 
%  

Average 
volume 
$ 

2015(2)  

Rate 
%  

1133,,114499   
8855,,777722   

11..6644
11..9977

16,282
75,923

1.27
1.64

15,802
66,591

0.72
1.75

14,079   
60,784   

0.46 
1.98 

11,771
57,494

0.26   
2.25   

2222,,447722   
5533,,447744   
3333,,007777   
22,,221199   
5511,,774466   
11,,338866   
226633,,229955   
2222,,886677     
228866,,116622   

5544,,775566   
55,,995500   
112233,,775544   
118844,,446600   
775588   
4477,,440044   
223322,,662222   
3388,,882277     
1144,,771133     
228866,,116622   

11..6600
22..8855
33..9977
1133..7711
55..1100
1122..7788
33..1122

22..8877

11..2277
11..8811
22..0022
11..7799
33..2255
11..3355
11..9900

11..5555
11..3322

20,090
51,497
32,208
2,164
45,649
1,486
245,299
20,641
265,940

50,499
5,980
110,697
167,176
564
47,762
215,502
36,492
13,946
265,940

1.09
2.75
3.69
13.35
4.71
12.76
2.81

2.60

1.12
1.45
1.62
1.47
3.20
1.20
1.57

1.27
1.33

19,878
50,844
30,890
2,206
39,579
1,238
227,028
21,323
248,351

48,408
7,567
98,279
154,254
423
44,204
198,881
36,722
12,748
248,351

1.03
2.61
3.34
12.07
3.95
15.18
2.58

2.36

1.01
0.69
1.20
1.11
3.81
0.74
1.11

0.89
1.47

19,038   
46,310   
30,409   
2,107   
34,197   
1,545   
208,469   
27,444     
235,913   

44,510   
12,468   
85,874   
142,852   
1,047   
38,804   
182,703   
41,627     
11,583     
235,913   

0.75 
2.69 
3.27 
11.98 
3.22 
14.01 
2.50 

25,610
41,798
28,840
2,023
26,883
1,204
195,623

27,306  

0.79   
2.85   
3.38   
11.85   
3.22   
17.87   
2.56   

2.12 

222,929

2.15   

42,480
10,925
76,063
129,468
1,571
40,374
171,413

40,792  
10,724  

222,929

1.13 
0.39 
1.10 
1.04 
3.16 
0.31 
0.98 

0.76 
1.36 

1.20   
0.24   
1.12   
1.07   
3.80   
0.41   
1.03   

0.79   
1.36   

(1) 
(2) 

See the Financial Reporting Method section on pages 14 and 15 for additional information on non-GAAP financial measures. 
For fiscal years prior to 2019, certain amounts have been reclassified. 

108

108 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
  
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
    
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
 
   
   
   
 
 
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
 
 
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Additional Financial Information 

TTaabbllee  99  ––  DDiissttrriibbuuttiioonn  ooff  GGrroossss  LLooaannss  aanndd  AAcccceeppttaanncceess  bbyy  BBoorrrroowweerr  CCaatteeggoorryy  UUnnddeerr    
BBaasseell  AAsssseett  CCllaasssseess  

As at October 31 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Residential mortgage(1)(2) 
Qualifying revolving retail 
Other retail 
Agriculture 
Oil and gas, and pipelines(3) 
Mining 
Utilities 
Non-real-estate construction(3)(4) 
Manufacturing(3) 
Wholesale 
Retail 
Transportation(3) 
Communications 
Finance and insurance 
Real estate and real-estate-construction(3)(5) 
Professional services 
Education and health care(3) 
Other services 
Government 
Other(2) 
POCI loans 

22001199    

%%   

$$  

2018  

%  

$ 

2017  

%  

$ 

2016  

%  

$ 

2015  

%  

$ 

7744,,444488   
44,,009999   
1111,,660066   
66,,330088   
44,,332299   
775588   
33,,337722   
11,,116688   
66,,330033   
22,,222211   
33,,228899   
11,,668822   
11,,661144   
44,,333355   
1111,,663355   
11,,884466   
33,,552200   
44,,993377   
11,,007711   
44,,222222   
11,,116666   
115533,,992299   

4488..44
22..77
77..55
44..11
22..88
00..55
22..22
00..88
44..11
11..44
22..11
11..11
11..00
22..88
77..66
11..22
22..33
33..22
00..77
22..77
00..88
110000..00

70,591
4,211
12,246
5,759
4,056
1,032
2,715
1,049
5,303
2,163
3,069
1,452
1,597
4,732
11,629
1,582
3,284
4,715
1,445
2,534
1,576
146,740

48.1
2.9
8.3
3.9
2.8
0.7
1.9
0.7
3.6
1.5
2.1
1.0
1.1
3.2
7.9
1.1
2.2
3.2
1.0
1.7
1.1
100.0

66,398
4,217
12,150
4,923
3,364
470
2,347
1,336
4,274
2,066
3,431
1,425
1,662
4,932
10,418
1,416
2,886
4,762
1,452
1,233
1,990
137,152

48.4
3.1
8.9
3.6
2.5
0.3
1.7
1.0
3.1
1.5
2.5
1.0
1.2
3.6
7.6
1.0
2.1
3.5
1.1
0.9
1.4
100.0

58,265   
4,178   
10,316   
4,599   
3,595   
582   
1,814   
1,147   
3,561   
2,021   
2,911   
1,565   
1,578   
3,872   
9,458   
1,374   
2,738   
4,647   
1,201   
7,537   
1,846   
128,805   

45.2
3.2
8.0
3.6
2.8
0.5
1.4
0.9
2.8
1.6
2.3
1.2
1.2
3.0
7.3
1.1
2.1
3.6
0.9
5.9
1.4
100.0

54,004
4,093
9,512
4,433
3,978
429
1,385
1,240
3,738
1,908
2,965
1,189
1,254
2,679
8,639
1,214
2,730
4,200
891
5,326
1,424
117,231

46.1  
3.6  
8.1  
3.8  
3.4  
0.4  
1.2  
1.0  
3.2  
1.6  
2.5  
1.0  
1.1  
2.3  
7.4  
1.0  
2.3  
3.6  
0.7  
4.5  
1.2  
100.0  

(1) 
(2) 

(3) 
(4) 
(5) 

Includes residential mortgage loans on one to four-unit dwellings (Basel definition) and home equity lines of credit. 
Since November 1, 2016, the loans acquired by the Financial Markets segment for securitization purposes, and reported in the Other category, are now being reported in the Residential 
mortgage category. Figures as at October 31, 2016 and from previous years were not adjusted to reflect those modifications. 
The presentation of certain borrower categories was changed during fiscal 2019. Comparative figures have been revised. 
Includes civil engineering loans, public-private partnership loans, and project finance loans. 
Includes residential mortgages on dwellings of five or more units and SME loans.   

TTaabbllee  1100  ––  IImmppaaiirreedd  LLooaannss(1)  

As at October 31 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Net impaired loans(3) 
  Personal Banking(4) 
  Commercial Banking 
  Wealth Management(4) 
  Financial Markets 
  USSF&I 
  Other 
Total net impaired loans 

Gross impaired loans 
Allowances for credit losses on impaired loans 
Individual and collective allowances 
  on impaired loans 
Net impaired loans(3) 

Provisioning rate 
As a % of loans and acceptances 

22001199  

2018  

2017(2)  

2016(2)  

2015(2)  

118877  
222222

33  
2233
1155  
−−
445500

668844
223344

445500  

3344..22 %%
00..33 %%

199  
187

3  
−
15  
−
404

630
226

404  

35.9 %
0.3 %

81  
121

1  
−
3  
−
206

380

174
206  

89   
190   
1   
−   
1   
−   
281   

492   

211   
281   

95   
157   
2   
−   
−   
−   
254   

457   

203   
254   

45.8 %  
0.2 %  

42.9  %
0.2  %

44.4  %   
0.2  %   

(1) 

(2) 
(3) 
(4) 

Given the adoption of IFRS 9, all loans classified in Stage 3 of the expected credit loss model are impaired loans. Under IAS 39, loans were considered impaired according to different criteria. 
The impaired loans presented in this table exclude POCI loans. 
These figures are presented in accordance with IAS 39. 
Net impaired loans are presented net of allowances for credit losses on Stage 3 loan amounts drawn. 
For fiscal years prior to 2019, certain amounts have been reclassified, as amounts related to advisor banking service activities were transferred from the Wealth Management segment to the 
Personal and Commercial segment. 

National Bank of Canada 

109

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Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
Additional Financial Information 

TTaabbllee  1111  ––  AAlllloowwaanncceess  ffoorr  CCrreeddiitt  LLoosssseess  

Year ended October 31 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

  Balance at beginning 
  Provisions for credit losses 
  Write-offs 
  Disposals 
  Recoveries 
  Exchange and other movements 
  Balance at end 
Composition of allowances: 
  Allowances for credit losses on impaired loans(2) 
  Allowances for credit losses on non-impaired loans 
  Allowances for credit losses on off-balance-sheet  
    commitments and other assets 
  Allowances for credit losses on POCI loans 
  Sectoral allowance on non-impaired loans – Oil and gas(3) 
  Collective allowance on non-impaired loans(4) 

22001199  

771144
334477
((335511))
((11))
5522
((66))
775555

223344
550011  

7777  
((5577))

2018 

735
327
(367)
(24)
45
(2)
714

226
498  

56  
(66)

2017(1) 

2016(1) 

2015(1)  

769
244
(320)
−
13
(11)
695

174

(24)
139  
406

555 
484 
(282)
− 
13 
(1)
769 

211 

(12)
204   
366 

605   
228   
(278)  
−   
13   
(13)  
555   

203   

(14)  
−   
366   

(1) 
(2) 

(3) 
(4) 

These figures are presented in accordance with IAS 39. 
Given the adoption of IFRS 9, all loans classified in Stage 3 of the expected credit loss model are impaired loans. Under IAS 39, loans were considered impaired according to different criteria. 
Allowances for credit losses on impaired loans presented in this table exclude allowances for credit losses on POCI loans. 
The sectoral allowance on non-impaired loans – oil and gas was established collectively for the portfolio of loans to producers and service companies in the oil and gas sector. 
The collective allowance for credit risk on non-impaired loans was established taking into account the Bank’s overall credit portfolio, except for loans covered by the sectoral allowance and 
POCI loans. 

TTaabbllee  1122  ––  DDeeppoossiittss  

As at October 31 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

22001199    
%%   

$$  

2018  
%  

$ 

2017  
%  

$ 

2016  
%  

$ 

$ 

Personal 
Business and government 
Deposit-taking institutions 
Total 
Canada 
United States 
Other countries 
Total 
Personal deposits as a  % 
  of total assets 

6600,,006655   
112255,,226666   
44,,223355   
118899,,556666   
117722,,776644   
66,,990077   
99,,889955   
118899,,556666   

3311..77   
55,688
6666..11    110,321
4,821
22..22   
110000..00    170,830
9911..11    156,054
6,048
33..77   
8,728
55..22   
110000..00    170,830

2211..33   

52,175
99,115
5,381
156,671
145,288
5,825
5,558
156,671

32.6
64.6
2.8
100.0
91.4
3.5
5.1
100.0

21.2

51,163   
85,263   
5,640   
142,066   
131,869   
4,442   
5,755   
142,066   

33.3
63.3
3.4
100.0
92.8
3.7
3.5
100.0

21.2

36.0   
60.0   
4.0   

47,394
76,845
6,219
100.0    130,458
92.8    116,315
9,655
3.1   
4,488
4.1   
100.0    130,458

22.0   

2015  
%  

36.3   
58.9   
4.8   
100.0   
89.2   
7.4   
3.4   
100.0   

21.9   

110

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
  
  
     
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
  
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
  
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
Audited Consolidated 
Financial Statements 

Management’s Responsibility for Financial Reporting 

Independent Auditor’s Report 

Consolidated Balance Sheets 

Consolidated Statements of Income 

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income 

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity 

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows 

Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 

111122  

111133  

111155  

111166  

111177  

111188  

111199  

112200  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
MMaannaaggeemmeenntt’’ss  RReessppoonnssiibbiilliittyy  ffoorr  FFiinnaanncciiaall  RReeppoorrttiinngg  

The consolidated financial statements of National Bank of Canada (the Bank) have been prepared in accordance with section 308(4) of the Bank Act (Canada), 
which states that, except as otherwise specified by the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (Canada) (OSFI), the financial statements are to be 
prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB). IFRS represent 
Canadian generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). None of the OSFI accounting requirements are exceptions to IFRS. 

Management maintains the accounting and internal control systems needed to discharge its responsibility, which is to provide reasonable assurance that the 
financial  accounts  are  accurate  and  complete  and  that  the  Bank’s  assets  are  adequately  safeguarded.  Controls  that  are  currently  in  place  include  quality 
standards on staff hiring and training; the implementation of organizational structures with clear divisions of responsibility and accountability for performance; 
the Code of Professional Conduct; and the communication of operating policies and procedures.  

As Chief Executive Officer and as Chief Financial Officer, we have overseen the evaluation of the design and operation of the Bank’s internal controls over financial 
reporting in accordance with Regulation 52-109 Respecting Certification of Disclosures in Issuers’ Annual and Interim Filings released by the Canadian Securities 
Administrators. Based on the evaluation work performed, we have concluded that the internal controls over financial reporting were effective as at October 31, 
2019 and that they provide reasonable assurance that the financial information is reliable and that the Bank’s consolidated financial statements have been 
prepared in accordance with IFRS. 

The Board of Directors (the Board) is responsible for reviewing and approving the financial information contained in the Annual Report. Acting through the Audit 
Committee, the Board also oversees the presentation of the consolidated financial statements and ensures that accounting and control systems are maintained. 
Composed  of  directors  who  are  neither  officers  nor  employees  of  the  Bank,  the  Audit  Committee  is  responsible,  through  Internal  Audit,  for  performing  an 
independent and objective review of the Bank’s internal control effectiveness, i.e., governance processes, risk management processes and control measures. 
Furthermore, the Audit Committee reviews the consolidated financial statements and recommends their approval to the Board. 

The control systems are further supported by the presence of the Compliance Service, which exercises independent oversight and evaluation in order to assist 
managers in effectively managing regulatory compliance risk and to obtain reasonable assurance that the Bank is compliant with regulatory requirements.  

Both the Senior Vice-President, Internal Audit and the Senior Vice-President, Chief Compliance Officer and Chief Anti-Money Laundering Officer have a direct 
functional link to the Chair of the Audit Committee and to the Chair of the Risk Management Committee. They both also have direct access to the President and 
Chief Executive Officer. 

In accordance with the Bank Act (Canada), OSFI is mandated to protect the rights and interests of the depositors. Accordingly, OSFI examines and enquires into 
the business and affairs of the Bank, as deemed necessary, to ensure that the provisions of the Bank Act (Canada) are being satisfied and that the Bank is in 
sound financial condition. 

The independent auditor, Deloitte LLP, whose report follows, was appointed by the shareholders on the recommendation of the Board. The auditor has full and 
unrestricted access to the Audit Committee to discuss audit and financial reporting matters. 

LLoouuiiss  VVaacchhoonn  
President and Chief Executive Officer    

GGhhiissllaaiinn  PPaarreenntt  
Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice-President, Finance 

Montreal, Canada, December 3, 2019 

112

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
IInnddeeppeennddeenntt  AAuuddiittoorr’’ss  RReeppoorrtt  

To the Shareholders of National Bank of Canada, 

OOppiinniioonn 
We have audited the consolidated financial statements of National Bank of Canada  (the Bank), which comprise the consolidated balance sheets as at October 31, 
2019 and 2018, and the consolidated statements of income,  the consolidated statements of comprehensive income, the consolidated statements of changes in 
equity and the consolidated statements of cash flows for the years then ended, and notes to the consolidated financial statements, including a summary of 
significant accounting policies (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). 

In our opinion, the accompanying financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Bank as at October 31, 2019 and 2018, 
and  its  financial  performance  and  its  cash  flows  for  the  years  then  ended  in  accordance  with  International  Financial  Reporting  Standards  as  issued  by  the 
International Accounting Standards Board (IFRS). 

BBaassiiss  ffoorr  OOppiinniioonn  
We conducted our audit in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards (Canadian GAAS). Our responsibilities under those standards are 
further described in the Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Statements section of our report. We are independent of the Bank in accordance 
with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of  the financial statements in Canada, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in 
accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. 

OOtthheerr  IInnffoorrmmaattiioonn  
Management is responsible for the other information. The other information comprises:  

  Management’s Discussion and Analysis; 
 

The information, other than the financial statements and our auditor’s report thereon, in the Annual Report.  

Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and we do not and will not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. In 
connection with our audit of the financial statements, our responsibility is to read the other information identified above and, in doing so, consider whether the 
other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated.  

We obtained Management’s Discussion and Analysis and the Annual Report prior to the date of this auditor’s report. If, based on the work we have performed on 
this other information, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact in this auditor’s report. We 
have nothing to report in this regard.  

RReessppoonnssiibbiilliittiieess  ooff  MMaannaaggeemmeenntt  aanndd  TThhoossee  CChhaarrggeedd  WWiitthh  GGoovveerrnnaannccee  ffoorr  tthhee  FFiinnaanncciiaall  SSttaatteemmeennttss  
Management  is  responsible  for  the  preparation  and  fair  presentation  of  the  financial  statements  in  accordance  with  IFRS,  and  for  such  internal  control  as 
management determines is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. 

In preparing the financial statements, management is responsible for assessing the Bank’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, 
matters  related  to  a  going  concern  and  using  the  going  concern  basis  of  accounting  unless  management  either  intends  to  liquidate  the  Bank  or  to  cease 
operations, or has no realistic alternative but to do so. 

Those charged with governance are responsible for overseeing the Bank’s financial reporting process. 

AAuuddiittoorr’’ss  RReessppoonnssiibbiilliittiieess  ffoorr  tthhee  AAuuddiitt  ooff  tthhee  FFiinnaanncciiaall  SSttaatteemmeennttss  
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud 
or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit 
conducted in accordance with Canadian GAAS will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are 
considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of 
these financial statements. 

National Bank of Canada 

113

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
Independent Auditor’s Report (cont.) 

As part of an audit in accordance with Canadian GAAS, we exercise professional judgment and maintain professional skepticism throughout the audit. We also: 

 

Identify  and  assess the  risks of material misstatement of  the financial statements, whether due  to fraud or error, design and perform  audit procedures 
responsive to those risks, and obtain audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. The risk of not detecting a material 
misstatement  resulting  from  fraud  is  higher  than  for  one  resulting  from  error,  as  fraud  may  involve  collusion,  forgery,  intentional  omissions, 
misrepresentations, or the override of internal control. 

  Obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for 

the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Bank’s internal control.  
Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates and related disclosures made by management. 
 
  Conclude on the appropriateness of management’s use of the going concern basis of accounting and, based on the audit evidence obtained, whether a 
material uncertainty exists related to events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the Bank’s ability to continue as a going concern. If we conclude 
that a material uncertainty exists, we are required to draw attention in our auditor’s report to the related disclosures in the financial statements or, if such 
disclosures are inadequate, to modify our opinion. Our conclusions are based on the audit evidence obtained up to the date of our auditor’s report. However, 
future events or conditions may cause the Bank to cease to continue as a going concern. 
Evaluate the overall presentation, structure and content of the financial statements, including the note disclosures, and whether the financial statements 
represent the underlying transactions and events in a manner that achieves fair presentation. 

 

  Obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence regarding the financial information of the entities or business activities within the Bank to express an opinion 
on the financial statements. We are responsible for the direction, supervision and performance of the group audit. We remain solely responsible for our audit 
opinion. 

We communicate with those charged with governance regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit and significant audit findings, 
including any significant deficiencies in internal control that we identify during our audit. 

We also provide those charged with governance with a statement that we have complied with relevant ethical requirements regarding independence, and to 
communicate  with  them  all  relationships  and  other  matters  that  may  reasonably  be  thought  to  bear  on  our  independence,  and  where  applicable,  related 
safeguards. 

The engagement partner on the audit resulting in this independent auditor’s report is Chantal Leclerc. 

//ss//  DDeellooiittttee  LLLLPP11  

December 3, 2019 
Montreal, Quebec 

1 CPA auditor, CA, public accountancy permit No. A121444

114

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

CCoonnssoolliiddaatteedd  BBaallaannccee  SShheeeettss  

As at October 31 

AAsssseettss  
CCaasshh  aanndd  ddeeppoossiittss  wwiitthh  ffiinnaanncciiaall  iinnssttiittuuttiioonnss  

SSeeccuurriittiieess  
At fair value through profit or loss 
At fair value through other comprehensive income 
At amortized cost 

SSeeccuurriittiieess  ppuurrcchhaasseedd  uunnddeerr  rreevveerrssee  rreeppuurrcchhaassee  aaggrreeeemmeennttss  
  aanndd  sseeccuurriittiieess  bboorrrroowweedd    

LLooaannss  
Residential mortgage 
Personal  
Credit card 
Business and government 

Customers’ liability under acceptances  
Allowances for credit losses 

OOtthheerr    
Derivative financial instruments 
Investments in associates and joint ventures 
Premises and equipment 
Goodwill 
Intangible assets 
Other assets 

LLiiaabbiilliittiieess  aanndd  eeqquuiittyy  
DDeeppoossiittss  

OOtthheerr  
Acceptances 
Obligations related to securities sold short 
Obligations related to securities sold under repurchase agreements  
  and securities loaned 
Derivative financial instruments 
Liabilities related to transferred receivables 
Other liabilities 

SSuubboorrddiinnaatteedd  ddeebbtt  

EEqquuiittyy    
EEqquuiittyy  aattttrriibbuuttaabbllee  ttoo  tthhee  BBaannkk’’ss  sshhaarreehhoollddeerrss  
Preferred shares 
Common shares 
Contributed surplus 
Retained earnings 
Accumulated other comprehensive income  

NNoonn--ccoonnttrroolllliinngg  iinntteerreessttss    

   Note 19 

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

   Notes 3, 4 and 6    

   Note 7 

  Note 16 
  Note 9 
  Note 10 
  Note 11 
  Note 11 
  Note 12 

22001199  

2018  

1133,,669988

12,756   

6611,,882233
1100,,664488
99,,775555
8822,,222266

55,817   
5,668   
8,298   
69,783   

1177,,772233

18,159   

5577,,117711
3366,,994444
22,,332222
5500,,559999
114477,,003366
66,,889933
((667788))
115533,,225511

88,,112299
338855
449900
11,,441122
11,,440066
22,,773388
1144,,556600
228811,,445588

53,651   
37,357   
2,325   
46,606   
139,939   
6,801   
(658)  
146,082   

8,608   
645   
601   
1,412   
1,314   
3,111   
15,691   
262,471   

   Notes 4 and 13  

118899,,556666

170,830    

  Note 16 
  Notes 4 and 8 
  Note 14 

   Note 15 

   Notes 18 and 22    

66,,889933
1122,,884499

2211,,990000
66,,885522
2211,,331122
66,,117777
7755,,998833
777733

22,,445500
22,,994499
5511
99,,331122
1166
1144,,777788
335588
1155,,113366
228811,,445588

6,801   
17,780   

19,998   
6,036   
20,100   
5,824   
76,539   
747    

2,450   
2,822   
57   
8,472   
175   
13,976   
379   
14,355   
262,471   

LLoouuiiss  VVaacchhoonn  
President and Chief Executive Officer 

KKaarreenn  KKiinnsslleeyy  
Director 

National Bank of Canada 

115

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Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

CCoonnssoolliiddaatteedd  SSttaatteemmeennttss  ooff  IInnccoommee  

Year ended October 31                                                                                                                                        

22001199  

2018 

IInntteerreesstt  iinnccoommee  
Loans 
Securities at fair value through profit or loss 
Securities at fair value through other comprehensive income 
Securities at amortized cost 
Deposits with financial institutions   

IInntteerreesstt  eexxppeennssee    
Deposits  
Liabilities related to transferred receivables   
Subordinated debt 
Other  

NNeett  iinntteerreesstt  iinnccoommee(1)  

NNoonn--iinntteerreesstt  iinnccoommee  
Underwriting and advisory fees  
Securities brokerage commissions  
Mutual fund revenues 
Trust service revenues 
Credit fees  
Card revenues  
Deposit and payment service charges  
Trading revenues (losses) 
Gains (losses) on non-trading securities, net 
Insurance revenues, net  
Foreign exchange revenues, other than trading 
Share in the net income of associates and joint ventures   
Other 

TToottaall  rreevveennuueess    
PPrroovviissiioonnss  ffoorr  ccrreeddiitt  lloosssseess  

NNoonn--iinntteerreesstt  eexxppeennsseess  
Compensation and employee benefits  
Occupancy  
Technology  
Communications 
Professional fees  
Other  

IInnccoommee  bbeeffoorree  iinnccoommee  ttaaxxeess      
Income taxes 
NNeett  iinnccoommee  

NNeett  iinnccoommee  aattttrriibbuuttaabbllee  ttoo  
Preferred shareholders 
Common shareholders 
Bank shareholders 
Non-controlling interests 

EEaarrnniinnggss  ppeerr  sshhaarree  (dollars)  
   Basic  
   Diluted  
DDiivviiddeennddss  ppeerr  ccoommmmoonn  sshhaarree  (dollars)  
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these audited consolidated financial statements. 

66,,446688
11,,008866
119955
221100
221155
88,,117744

33,,446688
444444
2255
664411
44,,557788
33,,559966

331144
117788
444499
660099
441177
117755
227711
882299
7777
113366
9966
3344
225511
33,,883366
77,,443322
334477
77,,008855

22,,553322
229988
770044
6622
224499
445566
44,,330011

22,,778844
446622
22,,332222

111166
22,,114400
22,,225566
6666
22,,332222

66..3399
66..3344
22..6666

5,632 
771 
152 
174 
206 
6,935 

2,562 
414 
18 
559 
3,553 
3,382 

388 
195 
438 
587 
403 
159 
280 
840 
77 
121 
95 
28 
173 
3,784 
7,166 
327 
6,839 

2,466 
236 
620 
63 
244 
434 
4,063 

2,776 
544 
2,232 

105 
2,040 
2,145 
87 
2,232 

6.01 
5.94 
2.44 

  Note 21 

  Note 9 
  Notes 9 and 10 

   Note 7 

  Note 14 
  Notes 10 and 11 

  Note 24 

   Note 25 

   Note 18 

(1)  Net interest income includes dividend income. For additional information, see Note 1 to these audited consolidated financial statements. 

116

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Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

CCoonnssoolliiddaatteedd  SSttaatteemmeennttss  ooff  CCoommpprreehheennssiivvee  IInnccoommee  

Year ended October 31 

NNeett  iinnccoommee  
OOtthheerr  ccoommpprreehheennssiivvee  iinnccoommee,,  nneett  ooff  iinnccoommee  ttaaxxeess  

IItteemmss  tthhaatt  mmaayy  bbee  ssuubbsseeqquueennttllyy  rreeccllaassssiiffiieedd  ttoo  nneett  iinnccoommee  
  NNeett  ffoorreeiiggnn  ccuurrrreennccyy  ttrraannssllaattiioonn  aaddjjuussttmmeennttss  

  Net unrealized foreign currency translation gains (losses) on investments in foreign operations 
  Net foreign currency translation (gains) losses on investments in foreign operations reclassified to net income 

Impact of hedging net foreign currency translation gains (losses) 
Impact of hedging net foreign currency translation (gains) losses reclassified to net income 

   NNeett  cchhaannggee  iinn  ddeebbtt  sseeccuurriittiieess  aatt  ffaaiirr  vvaalluuee  tthhrroouugghh  ootthheerr  ccoommpprreehheennssiivvee  iinnccoommee  

   Net unrealized gains (losses) on debt securities at fair value through other comprehensive income 
   Net (gains) losses on debt securities at fair value through other comprehensive income 

   reclassified to net income 

   NNeett  cchhaannggee  iinn  ccaasshh  ffllooww  hheeddggeess  

  Net gains (losses) on derivative financial instruments designated as cash flow hedges 
  Net (gains) losses on designated derivative financial instruments reclassified to net income  

   SShhaarree  iinn  tthhee  ootthheerr  ccoommpprreehheennssiivvee  iinnccoommee  ooff  aassssoocciiaatteess  aanndd  jjooiinntt  vveennttuurreess  

IItteemmss  tthhaatt  wwiillll  nnoott  bbee  ssuubbsseeqquueennttllyy  rreeccllaassssiiffiieedd  ttoo  nneett  iinnccoommee  
   RReemmeeaassuurreemmeennttss  ooff  ppeennssiioonn  ppllaannss  aanndd  ootthheerr  ppoosstt--eemmppllooyymmeenntt  bbeenneeffiitt  ppllaannss  
   NNeett  ggaaiinnss  ((lloosssseess))  oonn  eeqquuiittyy  sseeccuurriittiieess  ddeessiiggnnaatteedd  aatt  ffaaiirr  vvaalluuee  tthhrroouugghh  ootthheerr  ccoommpprreehheennssiivvee  iinnccoommee  
   NNeett  ffaaiirr  vvaalluuee  cchhaannggee  aattttrriibbuuttaabbllee  ttoo  ccrreeddiitt  rriisskk  oonn  ffiinnaanncciiaall  lliiaabbiilliittiieess  ddeessiiggnnaatteedd  aatt  

  ffaaiirr  vvaalluuee  tthhrroouugghh  pprrooffiitt  oorr  lloossss  

TToottaall  ootthheerr  ccoommpprreehheennssiivvee  iinnccoommee  ((lloossss)),,  nneett  ooff  iinnccoommee  ttaaxxeess  

CCoommpprreehheennssiivvee  iinnccoommee  

CCoommpprreehheennssiivvee  iinnccoommee  aattttrriibbuuttaabbllee  ttoo  
  Bank shareholders 
  Non-controlling interests 

22001199  

22,,332222

2018  

2,232    

((99))
((22))
44
−−
((77))

5544

((5533))
11

((113377))
((2200))
((115577))
33

((113355))
((2211))

55
((115511))
((331111))

22,,001111

11,,994466
6655
22,,001111

41   
−   
(13)  
−   
28    

(11)   

(5)   
(16)   

51   
(46)  
5    
1   

103   
(2)  

21   
122   
140    

2,372    

2,284   
88   
2,372   

IInnccoommee  TTaaxxeess  ––  OOtthheerr  CCoommpprreehheennssiivvee  IInnccoommee   

The following table presents the income tax expense or recovery for each component of other comprehensive income. 

Year ended October 31 

22001199   

2018  

NNeett  ffoorreeiiggnn  ccuurrrreennccyy  ttrraannssllaattiioonn  aaddjjuussttmmeennttss  
   Net unrealized foreign currency translation gains (losses) on investments in foreign operations 
   Net foreign currency translation (gains) losses on investments in foreign operations reclassified to net income 

Impact of hedging net foreign currency translation gains (losses) 
Impact of hedging net foreign currency translation (gains) losses reclassified to net income 

NNeett  cchhaannggee  iinn  ddeebbtt  sseeccuurriittiieess  aatt  ffaaiirr  vvaalluuee  tthhrroouugghh  ootthheerr  ccoommpprreehheennssiivvee  iinnccoommee  
  Net unrealized gains (losses) on debt securities at fair value through other comprehensive income 
  Net (gains) losses on debt securities at fair value through other comprehensive income 

  reclassified to net income 

NNeett  cchhaannggee  iinn  ccaasshh  ffllooww  hheeddggeess  
  Net gains (losses) on derivative financial instruments designated as cash flow hedges 
  Net (gains) losses on designated derivative financial instruments reclassified to net income  

SShhaarree  iinn  tthhee  ootthheerr  ccoommpprreehheennssiivvee  iinnccoommee  ooff  aassssoocciiaatteess  aanndd  jjooiinntt  vveennttuurreess  
RReemmeeaassuurreemmeennttss  ooff  ppeennssiioonn  ppllaannss  aanndd  ootthheerr  ppoosstt--eemmppllooyymmeenntt  bbeenneeffiitt  ppllaannss  
NNeett  ggaaiinnss  ((lloosssseess))  oonn  eeqquuiittyy  sseeccuurriittiieess  ddeessiiggnnaatteedd  aatt  ffaaiirr  vvaalluuee  tthhrroouugghh  ootthheerr  

   ccoommpprreehheennssiivvee  iinnccoommee  

NNeett  ffaaiirr  vvaalluuee  cchhaannggee  aattttrriibbuuttaabbllee  ttoo  ccrreeddiitt  rriisskk  oonn  ffiinnaanncciiaall  lliiaabbiilliittiieess  ddeessiiggnnaatteedd  aatt  

   ffaaiirr  vvaalluuee  tthhrroouugghh  pprrooffiitt  oorr  lloossss  

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

33
((11))
22
22
66

1199

((1199))
−−

((5500))
((77))
((5577))
−−
((4488))

((66))

22
((110033))

National Bank of Canada 

1   
−   
−   
−   
1   

(4)  

(1)  
(5)  

19   
(17)  
2   
−   
37   

(1)  

7   
41    

117

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
  
  
     
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
  
  
    
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
    
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
    
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
     
  
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
  
  
  
 
  
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
     
  
  
  
    
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
  
 
  
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
  
  
   
   
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity 

Note 18 

Note 18 

Note 22 

Note 18 
Note 18 
Note 18 

Year ended October 31 

PPrreeffeerrrreedd  sshhaarreess  aatt  bbeeggiinnnniinngg  
Issuances of Series 40 and 42 preferred shares 
Redemption of Series 28 preferred shares for cancellation 
PPrreeffeerrrreedd  sshhaarreess  aatt  eenndd  

CCoommmmoonn  sshhaarreess  aatt  bbeeggiinnnniinngg    
Issuances of common shares pursuant to the Stock Option Plan 
Repurchases of common shares for cancellation 
Impact of shares purchased or sold for trading 
CCoommmmoonn  sshhaarreess  aatt  eenndd    

CCoonnttrriibbuutteedd  ssuurrpplluuss  aatt  bbeeggiinnnniinngg    
Stock option expense 
Stock options exercised 
Other 
CCoonnttrriibbuutteedd  ssuurrpplluuss  aatt  eenndd  

RReettaaiinneedd  eeaarrnniinnggss  aatt  bbeeggiinnnniinngg    
Impact of adopting IFRS 15 on November 1, 2018 (IFRS 9 on November 1, 2017) 
Net income attributable to the Bank’s shareholders 
Dividends on preferred shares 
Dividends on common shares 
Premium paid on common shares repurchased for cancellation 
Share issuance expenses, net of income taxes 
Remeasurements of pension plans and other post-employment benefit plans 
Net gains (losses) on equity securities designated at fair value through other comprehensive income 
Net fair value change attributable to the credit risk on financial liabilities designated at fair value   

through profit or loss 

Impact of a financial liability resulting from put options written to non-controlling interests 
Other 
RReettaaiinneedd  eeaarrnniinnggss  aatt  eenndd    

AAccccuummuullaatteedd  ootthheerr  ccoommpprreehheennssiivvee  iinnccoommee  aatt  bbeeggiinnnniinngg  
Impact of adopting IFRS 9 on November 1, 2017 
Net foreign currency translation adjustments 
Net change in unrealized gains (losses) on debt securities at fair value through other comprehensive income 
Net change in gains (losses) on cash flow hedges 
Share in the other comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures
AAccccuummuullaatteedd  ootthheerr  ccoommpprreehheennssiivvee  iinnccoommee  aatt  eenndd  

22001199   

22,,445500
−−
−−
22,,445500

22,,882222
112222
((4400))
4455
22,,994499

5577
1111
((1155))
((22))
5511

88,,447722
((44))
22,,225566
((111166))
((889922))
((224411))
−−
((113355))
((2211))

55
((1122))
−−
99,,331122

117755

((66))
11
((115577))
33
1166

2018  

2,050 
600 
(200)  
2,450 

2,768 
128 
(64)
(10)
2,822 

58 
12 
(15)
2 
57 

7,706 
(139)
2,145 
(105)
(829)
(403)
(12)
103 
(2)

21 
− 
(13)
8,472 

168 
(10)  
27
(16)  
5 
1
175 

EEqquuiittyy  aattttrriibbuuttaabbllee  ttoo  tthhee  BBaannkk’’ss  sshhaarreehhoollddeerrss  

1144,,777788

13,976 

NNoonn--ccoonnttrroolllliinngg  iinntteerreessttss  aatt  bbeeggiinnnniinngg  
Impact of adopting IFRS 9 on November 1, 2017 
Purchase of the non-controlling interest of the Advanced Bank of Asia Limited subsidiary 
Redemption of trust units issued by NBC Asset Trust 
Net income attributable to non-controlling interests 
Other comprehensive income attributable to non-controlling interests 
Distributions to non-controlling interests 
NNoonn--ccoonnttrroolllliinngg  iinntteerreessttss  aatt  eenndd  

Note 19 

Note 31 

337799

((3300))
−−
6666
((11))
((5566))
335588

808 
(16)  
− 
(400)  
87 
1 
(101)  
379 

EEqquuiittyy  

1155,,113366

14,355 

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income 

As at October 31 

AAccccuummuullaatteedd  ootthheerr  ccoommpprreehheennssiivvee  iinnccoommee  
Net foreign currency translation adjustments 
Net unrealized gains (losses) on debt securities at fair value through other comprehensive income 
Net gains (losses) on instruments designated as cash flow hedges 
Share in the other comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures 

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

22001199

2018  

88  
1144  
((66))
−−  
1166  

14 
13 
151 
(3)
175 

118

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

CCoonnssoolliiddaatteedd  SSttaatteemmeennttss  ooff  CCaasshh  FFlloowwss  

Year ended October 31 

CCaasshh  fflloowwss  ffrroomm  ooppeerraattiinngg  aaccttiivviittiieess  
Net income  
Adjustments for 
  Provisions for credit losses 
  Amortization of premises and equipment and intangible assets 
  Gains on disposals of investments in associates and joint ventures 
  Remeasurement at fair value of an investment 
  Provisions for onerous contracts 
  Gain on disposal  of premises and equipment 

Impairment losses on premises and equipment and on intangible assets 

  Deferred taxes 

Losses (gains) on sales of non-trading securities, net 
  Share in the net income of associates and joint ventures 
  Stock option expense 
Change in operating assets and liabilities 
  Securities at fair value through profit or loss 
  Securities purchased under reverse repurchase agreements and securities borrowed 

Loans and acceptances, net of securitization 

  Deposits 
  Obligations related to securities sold short 
  Obligations related to securities sold under repurchase agreements and securities loaned 
  Derivative financial instruments, net 

Interest and dividends receivable and interest payable 

  Current tax assets and liabilities 
  Other items 

CCaasshh  fflloowwss  ffrroomm  ffiinnaanncciinngg  aaccttiivviittiieess  
Issuances of preferred shares 
Redemption of preferred shares for cancellation 
Issuances of common shares (including the impact of shares purchased for trading) 
Repurchases of common shares for cancellation 
Issuance of subordinated debt 
Purchase of the non-controlling interest of the Advanced Bank of Asia Limited subsidiary 
Redemption of trust units issued by NBC Asset Trust 
Share issuance expenses  
Dividends paid 
Distributions to non-controlling interests 

CCaasshh  fflloowwss  ffrroomm  iinnvveessttiinngg  aaccttiivviittiieess  
Disposal of shares of an investment in an associate 
Disposal of premises and equipment 
Net change in investments in associates and joint ventures 
Purchases of non-trading securities 
Maturities of non-trading securities 
Sales of non-trading securities 
Net change in tangible assets leased under operating leases 
Net change in premises and equipment 
Net change in intangible assets 

IImmppaacctt  ooff  ccuurrrreennccyy  rraattee  mmoovveemmeennttss  oonn  ccaasshh  aanndd  ccaasshh  eeqquuiivvaalleennttss  

IInnccrreeaassee  ((ddeeccrreeaassee))  iinn  ccaasshh  aanndd  ccaasshh  eeqquuiivvaalleennttss  
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning  
CCaasshh  aanndd  ccaasshh  eeqquuiivvaalleennttss  aatt  eenndd(1)  
SSuupppplleemmeennttaarryy  iinnffoorrmmaattiioonn  aabboouutt  ccaasshh  fflloowwss  ffrroomm  ooppeerraattiinngg  aaccttiivviittiieess  
Interest paid 
Interest and dividends received 
Income taxes paid 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these audited consolidated financial statements. 

  Note 9 
  Note 9 
  Note 14 
  Note 10 
  Notes 10 and 11 

  Note 31 

  Note 9 
  Note 10 

22001199    

2018   

22,,332222    

2,232   

334477    
332288    
((7799))   
3333    
4455    
((5500))   
5577    
((220077))   
((7777))   
((3344))   
1111    

((66,,000066))   
443366    
((66,,222211))   
1188,,773366    
((44,,993311))   
11,,990022    
11,,229955    
((4411))   
((77))   
442211    
88,,228800  

−−    
−−    
115522    
((228811))  
−−    
((8844))   
−−    
−−    
((999922))   
((5566))   
((11,,226611))  

112288    
118877    
((1166))   
((1166,,335555))   
11,,889933    
88,,441133    
−−    
((114444))   
((335599))   
((66,,225533))   
117766    
994422    
1122,,775566    
1133,,669988  

44,,554455    
88,,110000    
552200    

327   
302   
(4)  
−   
−   
−   
−   
24   
(77)  
(28)  
12   

(3,589)  
2,630   
(9,160)  
14,159   
2,417   
(1,769)  
(761)  
53   
(127)  
(777)  
5,864 

600   
(200)  
103   
(467) 
750   
−   
(400)  
(12)  
(918)  
(101)  
(645) 

−   
−   
(3)  
(7,790)  
509   
6,173   
69   
(233)  
(256)  
(1,531)  
266   
3,954   
8,802   
12,756 

3,440   
6,875   
596   

(1) 

This item is the equivalent of Consolidated Balance Sheet item Cash and deposits with financial institutions. It includes an amount of $4.1 billion as at October 31, 2019 ($2.5 billion as at 
October 31, 2018) for which there are restrictions.  

National Bank of Canada 

119

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
   
 
   
    
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
   
 
  
   
 
   
 
   
    
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
   
    
   
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
    
   
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

NNootteess  ttoo  tthhee  AAuuddiitteedd  CCoonnssoolliiddaatteedd  FFiinnaanncciiaall  SSttaatteemmeennttss  

Note 1 
Note 2 
Note 3 
Note 4 
Note 5 
Note 6 
Note 7 
Note 8 
Note 9 
Note 10 
Note 11 
Note 12 
Note 13 
Note 14 
Note 15 
Note 16 
Note 17 

Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies 
Future Accounting Policy Changes 
Fair Value of Financial Instruments 
Financial Instruments Designated at Fair Value Through Profit or Loss 
Offsetting Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities 
Securities 
Loans and Allowances for Credit Losses 
Financial Assets Transferred But Not Derecognized 
Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures 
Premises and Equipment 
Goodwill and Intangible Assets 
Other Assets 
Deposits 
Other Liabilities 
Subordinated Debt 
Derivative Financial Instruments 
Hedging Activities 

112200  
113355  
113366  
114477  
114488  
114499  
115511  
116644  
116655  
116677  
116688  
116699  
117700  
117700  
117711  
117711  
117744  

Note 18
Note 19
Note 20
Note 21
Note 22
Note 23

Note 24
Note 25
Note 26
Note 27
Note 28
Note 29
Note 30
Note 31
Note 32

Share Capital 
Non-Controlling Interests 
Capital Disclosure 
Trading Activity Revenues 
Share-Based Payments  
Employee Benefits – Pension Plans and Other 
  Post-Employment Benefits 
Income Taxes 
Earnings Per Share 
Guarantees, Commitments and Contingent Liabilities 
Structured Entities 
Related Party Disclosures 
Management of the Risks Associated With Financial Instruments 
Segment Disclosures 
Acquisition 
Event After the Consolidated Balance Sheet Date 

118800
118833
118844
118855
118866

118899
119933
119955
119955
119999
220022
220033
220088
220099
220099

NNoottee  11  ––  BBaassiiss  ooff  PPrreesseennttaattiioonn  aanndd  SSuummmmaarryy  ooff  SSiiggnniiffiiccaanntt  AAccccoouunnttiinngg  PPoolliicciieess    

National Bank of Canada (the Bank) is a financial institution incorporated and domiciled in Canada and whose shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange. 
Its head office is located at 600 De La Gauchetière Street West in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. The Bank is a chartered bank under Schedule 1 of the Bank Act 
(Canada) and is regulated by the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions Canada (OSFI). 

National Bank of Canada offers financial services to individuals, businesses, institutional clients and governments throughout Canada as well as specialized 
services at the international level. It operates four business segments, namely, the Personal and Commercial segment, the Wealth Management segment, the 
Financial Markets segment, and the U.S. Specialty Finance and International (USSF&I) segment. Its full line of services includes banking and investing solutions 
for individuals and businesses, corporate banking and investment banking services, securities brokerage, insurance, and wealth management. 

On  December  3,  2019,  the  Board  of  Directors  (the  Board)  authorized  the  publication  of  the  Bank’s  audited  annual  consolidated  financial  statements 
(the consolidated financial statements) for the year ended October 31, 2019. 

BBaassiiss  ooff  PPrreesseennttaattiioonn  

The Bank’s consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with section 308(4) of the Bank Act (Canada), which states that, except as 
otherwise specified by OSFI, the financial statements are to be prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), as issued by the 
International  Accounting  Standards  Board  (IASB).  IFRS  represent  Canadian  generally  accepted  accounting  principles  (GAAP).  None  of  the  OSFI  accounting 
requirements are exceptions to IFRS. 

The accounting policies covered in the Summary of Significant Accounting Policies section have been applied consistently to all periods presented and include 
the changes described hereafter in the Accounting Policy Changes section, which have been applied since November 1, 2018 following adoption of IFRS 15 – 
Revenue From Contracts With Customers (IFRS 15). As permitted by IFRS 15, the Bank did not restate comparative consolidated financial statements. 

Unless otherwise indicated, all amounts are expressed in Canadian dollars, which is the Bank’s functional and presentation currency.  

120

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National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

AAccccoouunnttiinngg  PPoolliiccyy  CChhaannggeess  

Effective November 1, 2018, the Bank adopted IFRS 15, which replaces the previous revenue recognition standards and interpretations. Excluded from the scope 
of IFRS 15 are revenues related to lease contracts, insurance contracts, and financial instruments. Fees earned, which are an integral component of the effective 
interest rate of financial assets and liabilities measured at amortized cost, are within the scope of IFRS 9 – Financial Instruments and are therefore outside the 
scope of IFRS 15. Most of the Bank’s revenues, including net interest income, are not impacted by the adoption of this standard.  

IFRS 15 provides a single comprehensive model to use in accounting for revenue arising from contracts with customers. The new revenue recognition model is 
based on a control approach that differs from the risks and rewards approach applied under previous IFRS. The revenue streams that fall within the scope of IFRS 
15 are fee and commission income, and the applicable significant accounting policies are described in the Summary of Significant Accounting Policies section. 
However, the adoption of IFRS 15 did not have a significant impact on the Bank’s revenue recognition accounting policies.  

The core principle of IFRS 15 is to recognize revenue when, or as, a performance obligation is satisfied, i.e., when control of a promised service is transferred to 
a customer and in an amount that reflects the consideration the entity expects to be entitled to receive in exchange for the service. Revenue may therefore be 
recognized at a point in time, upon completion of the service, or over time as services are provided. 

The Bank has elected to apply IFRS 15 using the modified retrospective basis, recognizing the cumulative effect of initially applying the standard as an adjustment 
to the opening balance of Retained earnings without restating comparative figures. Adoption of IFRS 15 resulted in a $4 million decrease to opening Retained 
earnings as at November 1, 2018. 

SSuummmmaarryy  ooff  SSiiggnniiffiiccaanntt  AAccccoouunnttiinngg  PPoolliicciieess    

JJuuddggmmeennttss,,  EEssttiimmaatteess  aanndd  AAssssuummppttiioonnss  
In preparing consolidated financial statements in accordance with IFRS, management must exercise judgment and make estimates and assumptions that affect 
the reporting date carrying amounts of assets and liabilities, net income, and related information. Furthermore, certain accounting policies require complex 
judgments and estimates because they apply to matters that are inherently uncertain, in particular accounting policies applicable to the following: the fair value 
determination of financial instruments, the impairment of financial assets, the impairment of non-financial assets, pension plans and other post-employment 
benefits, income taxes, provisions, the consolidation of structured entities, and the classification of debt instruments. Descriptions of these judgments and 
estimates are provided in each of the notes related thereto in the consolidated financial statements. Actual results could therefore differ from these estimates, 
in which case the impacts are recognized in the consolidated financial statements of future fiscal periods. The accounting policies described in this note provide 
greater detail about the use of estimates and assumptions and reliance on judgment. 

BBaassiiss  ooff  CCoonnssoolliiddaattiioonn  
Subsidiaries 
These consolidated financial statements include all the assets, liabilities, operating results and cash flows of the Bank and its subsidiaries, after elimination of 
intercompany transactions and balances. Subsidiaries are entities, including structured entities, controlled by the Bank. A structured entity is an entity created 
to accomplish a narrow and well-defined objective and is designed so that voting or similar rights are not the dominant factor in deciding who controls the entity, 
such as when voting rights relate solely to administrative tasks and the relevant activities are directed by means of contractual arrangements.  

Management  must  exercise  judgment  in  determining  whether  the  Bank  must  consolidate  an  entity.  The  Bank  controls  an  entity  only  if  the  following  three 
conditions are met: 

 
 
 

it has decision-making authority regarding the entity’s relevant activities;  
it has exposure or rights to variable returns from its involvement with the entity; and 
it has the ability to use its power to affect the amount of the returns. 

When determining decision-making authority, the Bank considers many factors, including the existence and effect of actual and potential voting rights held by 
the Bank that can be exercised as well as the holding of instruments that are convertible into voting shares. In addition, the Bank must determine whether, as 
an investor with decision-making rights, it acts as a principal or agent.  

Based on these principles, an assessment of control is performed at the inception of a relationship between any entity and the Bank. When performing this 
assessment, the Bank considers all facts and circumstances, and it must reassess whether it still controls an investee if facts and circumstances indicate that 
there are changes to one or more of the three conditions of control. 

The Bank consolidates the entities it controls from the date on which control is obtained and ceases to consolidate them from the date control ceases. The Bank 
uses the acquisition method to account for the acquisition of a subsidiary from a third party on the date control is obtained.   

National Bank of Canada 

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National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Note 1 – Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (cont.) 

Non-Controlling Interests 
Non-controlling  interests  in  subsidiaries  represent  the  equity  interests  held  by  third  parties  in  the  Bank’s  subsidiaries  and  are  presented  in  total Equity, 
separately from Equity attributable to the Bank’s shareholders. The non-controlling interests’ proportionate shares of the net income and other comprehensive 
income of the Bank’s subsidiaries  are presented separately in the Consolidated Statement of Income and in  the Consolidated Statement  of Comprehensive 
Income, respectively. 

With respect to units issued to third parties by mutual funds and certain other funds that are consolidated, they are presented at fair value in Other liabilities on 
the Consolidated Balance Sheet. Lastly, changes in ownership interests in subsidiaries that do not result in a loss of control are recognized as equity transactions. 
The difference between the adjustment in the carrying value of the non-controlling interest and the fair value of the consideration paid or received is recognized 
directly in Equity attributable to the Bank’s shareholders. 

Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures 
The Bank exercises significant influence over an entity when it has the power to participate in the financial and operating policy decisions of the investee. The 
Bank has joint control when there’s a contractually agreed sharing of control of an arrangement, and joint control exists only when decisions about the relevant 
activities require the unanimous consent of the parties sharing control. 

Investments in associates, i.e., entities over which the Bank exercises significant influence, and investments in joint ventures, i.e., entities over which the Bank 
has rights to the net assets and exercises joint control, are accounted for using the equity method. Under the equity method, the investment is initially recorded 
at cost and, following acquisition, the Bank’s shares in the net income and in the other comprehensive income are recognized, respectively, in Non-interest 
income in the Consolidated Statement of Income and in Other comprehensive income in the Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income. The carrying 
value of the investment is adjusted by an equivalent amount on the Consolidated Balance Sheet and reduced by distributions received. 

TTrraannssllaattiioonn  ooff  FFoorreeiiggnn  CCuurrrreenncciieess  
The consolidated financial statements are presented in Canadian dollars, which is the Bank’s functional and presentation currency. Each foreign operation of 
the Bank determines its own functional currency, and the items reported in the financial statements of each foreign operation are measured using that currency. 

Monetary items and non-monetary items measured at fair value and denominated in foreign currencies are translated into the functional currency at exchange 
rates prevailing at the Consolidated Balance Sheet date. Non-monetary items not measured at fair value are translated into the functional currency at historical 
rates. Revenues and expenses denominated in foreign currencies are translated at the average exchange rates for the period. Translation gains and losses are 
recognized in Non-interest income in the Consolidated Statement of Income, except for equity instruments designated at fair value through other comprehensive 
income, for which unrealized gains and losses are recorded in Other comprehensive income and will not be subsequently reclassified to net income. 

In the consolidated financial statements, the assets and liabilities of all foreign operations are translated into the Bank’s functional currency at the exchange 
rates prevailing at the Consolidated Balance Sheet date, whereas the revenues and expenses of such foreign operations are translated into the Bank’s functional 
currency at the average exchange rates for the period. Any goodwill resulting from the acquisition of a foreign operation that does not have the same functional 
currency as the parent company, and any fair value adjustments to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities resulting from the acquisition, are treated as 
assets and liabilities of the foreign operation and translated at the exchange rates prevailing at the Consolidated Balance Sheet date. Unrealized translation 
gains and losses relating to foreign operations, along with the impact of hedges and income taxes on the related results, are presented in Other comprehensive 
income. On disposal of a foreign operation, any accumulated translation gains and losses, along with the related hedges, recorded in the Accumulated other 
comprehensive income item of this foreign operation, are reclassified to Non-interest income in the Consolidated Statement of Income.  

CCllaassssiiffiiccaattiioonn  aanndd  MMeeaassuurreemmeenntt  ooff  FFiinnaanncciiaall  IInnssttrruummeennttss    
At  initial  recognition,  all  financial  instruments  are  recorded  at  fair  value  on  the  Consolidated  Balance  Sheet.  At  initial  recognition,  financial  assets  must  be 
classified  as subsequently  measured at  fair value  through other comprehensive  income, at  amortized cost,  or at fair  value  through  profit  or  loss. The  Bank 
determines the classification based on the contractual cash flow characteristics of the financial assets and on the business model it uses to manage these 
financial assets. At initial recognition, financial liabilities are classified as subsequently measured at amortized cost or as at fair value through profit or loss.  

For  the  purpose  of  classifying  a  financial  asset,  the  Bank  must  determine  whether  the  contractual  cash  flows  associated  with  the  financial  asset  are  solely 
payments of principal and interest on the principal amount outstanding. The principal is generally the fair value of the financial asset at initial recognition. The 
interest consists of consideration for the time value of money, for the credit risk associated with the principal amount outstanding during a particular period, 
and for other basic lending risks and costs as well as of a profit margin. If the Bank determines that the contractual cash flows associated with a financial asset 
are not solely payments of principal and interest, the financial assets must be classified as measured at fair value through profit or loss. 

122

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National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

When classifying financial assets, the Bank determines the business model used for each portfolio of financial assets that are managed together to achieve a 
same business objective. The business model reflects how the Bank manages its financial assets and the extent to which the financial asset cash flows are 
generated by the collection of the contractual cash flows, the sale of the financial assets, or both. The Bank determines the business model using scenarios that 
it reasonably expects to occur. Consequently, the business model determination is a matter of fact and requires the use of judgment and consideration of all the 
relevant evidence available at the date of determination. 

A financial asset portfolio falls within a “hold to collect” business model when the Bank’s primary objective is to hold these financial assets in order to collect 
contractual cash flows from them and not to sell them. When the Bank’s objective is achieved both by collecting contractual cash flows and by selling the financial 
assets, the financial asset portfolio falls within a “hold to collect and sell” business model. In this type of business model, collecting contractual cash flows and 
selling  financial  assets  are  both  integral  components  to  achieving  the  Bank’s  objective  for  this  financial  asset  portfolio.  Financial  assets  are  mandatorily 
measured at fair value through profit or loss if they do not fall within either a “hold to collect” business model or a “hold to collect and sell” business model. 

Financial Instruments Designated at Fair Value Through Profit or Loss 
A financial asset may be irrevocably designated at fair value through profit or loss at initial recognition if certain conditions are met. The Bank may apply this 
option if, consistent with a documented risk management strategy, doing so eliminates or significantly reduces a measurement or recognition inconsistency that 
would otherwise arise from measuring financial assets or liabilities or recognizing gains and losses on them on different bases and if the fair values are reliable. 
Financial assets thus designated are recognized at fair value, and any change in fair value is recorded in Non-interest income in the Consolidated Statement of 
Income.  Interest  income  arising  from  these  financial  instruments  designated  at  fair  value  through  profit  or  loss  is  recorded  in Net interest income  in  the 
Consolidated Statement of Income. 

A financial liability may be irrevocably designated at fair value through profit  or loss when it is initially recognized. Financial liabilities thus designated are 
recognized at fair value, and any changes in fair value attributable to changes in the Bank's own credit risk are recognized in Other comprehensive income unless 
these changes offset the amounts recognized in Net income. Fair value changes not attributable to the Bank's own credit risk are recognized in Non-interest 
income in the Consolidated Statement of Income. The amounts recognized in Other comprehensive income will not be subsequently reclassified to Net income. 
Interest  expense  arising  from  these  financial  liabilities  designated  at  fair  value  through  profit  or  loss  is  recorded  in  the  Net interest income  item  of  the 
Consolidated Statement of Income. The Bank may use this option in the following cases: 

 

 

 

If,  consistent  with  a  documented  risk  management  strategy,  using  this  option  allows  the  Bank  to  eliminate  or  significantly  reduce  a  measurement  or 
recognition inconsistency that would otherwise arise from measuring financial assets or liabilities on different bases, and if the fair values are reliable. 
If a group of financial assets and financial liabilities to which an instrument belongs is managed and its performance is evaluated on a fair value basis, in 
accordance  with  the  Bank’s  documented  risk  management  or  investment  strategy,  and  information  is  provided  on  that  basis  to  senior  management. 
Consequently, the Bank may use this option if it has implemented a documented risk management strategy to manage a group of financial instruments 
together on the fair value basis, if it can demonstrate that significant financial risks are eliminated or significantly reduced, and if the fair values are reliable. 
For hybrid financial instruments with one or more embedded derivatives that would significantly modify the cash flows of the financial instruments and that 
would otherwise be bifurcated and accounted for separately. 

Financial Instruments Designated at Fair Value Through Other Comprehensive Income 
At initial recognition, an investment in an equity instrument that is neither held for trading nor a contingent consideration recognized in a business combination 
may be irrevocably designated as  being at fair value through  other  comprehensive income. In accordance with this designation, any change in fair value is 
recognized in Other comprehensive income with no subsequent reclassification to net income. Dividend income is recorded in Interest income in the Consolidated 
Statement of Income. 

Securities Measured at Fair Value Through Other Comprehensive Income 
Securities measured at fair value through other comprehensive income include: (i) debt securities for which the contractual terms of the financial asset give rise, 
on specified dates, to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest on the principal amount outstanding and that fall within a “hold to collect and 
sell” business model and (ii) equity securities designated at fair value through other comprehensive income with no subsequent reclassification of gains and 
losses to net income. 

The Bank recognizes securities transactions  at fair value through other comprehensive income on the trade date,  and the transaction costs are capitalized. 
Interest income and dividend income are recognized in Interest income in the Consolidated Statement of Income. 

National Bank of Canada 

123

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Note 1 – Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (cont.) 

Debt Securities Measured at Fair Value Through Other Comprehensive Income 
Debt securities measured at fair value through other comprehensive income are recognized at fair value. Unrealized gains and losses are recognized, net of 
expected credit losses and income taxes, and provided that they are not hedged by derivative financial instruments in a fair value hedging relationship, in Other 
comprehensive income. When the securities are sold, realized gains or losses, determined on an average cost basis, are reclassified to Non-interest income – 
Gains (losses) on non-trading securities, net in the Consolidated Statement of Income. Premiums, discounts and related transaction costs are amortized over 
the expected life of the instrument to interest income using the effective interest rate method. 

Equity Securities Designated at Fair Value Through Other Comprehensive Income 
Equity securities designated at fair value through other comprehensive income are recognized at fair value. Unrealized gains and losses are presented, net of 
income taxes, in Other comprehensive income with no subsequent reclassification of realized gains and losses to net income. Transaction costs incurred upon 
the purchase of such equity securities are not reclassified to net income upon the sale of the securities. 

Securities Measured at Amortized Cost 
Securities measured at amortized cost include debt securities for which the contractual terms give rise, on specified dates, to cash flows that are solely payments 
of principal and interest on the principal amount outstanding and that fall within a “hold to collect” business model. 

The Bank recognizes these securities transactions at fair value on the trade date, and the transaction costs are capitalized. After initial recognition, debt securities 
in this category are recorded at amortized cost. Interest income is recognized in Interest income in the Consolidated Statement of Income. Premiums, discounts 
and  related  transaction  costs  are  amortized  over  the  expected  life  of  the  instrument  to  interest  income  using  the  effective  interest  rate  method.  Securities 
measured at amortized cost are presented net of allowances for credit losses on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. 

Securities Measured at Fair Value Through Profit or Loss 
Securities not classified or designated as measured at fair value through other comprehensive income or at amortized cost are classified as measured at fair 
value through profit or loss. 

Securities measured at fair value through profit or loss include (i) securities held for trading, (ii) securities designated at fair value through profit or loss, (iii) all 
equity securities other than those designated as measured at fair value through other comprehensive income with no subsequent reclassifications of gains and 
losses to net income, and (iv) debt securities for which the contractual cash flows are not solely payments of principal and any interest on the principal amount 
outstanding. 

The Bank recognizes securities transactions at fair value through profit or loss on the settlement date on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. Changes in fair value 
between the trade date and the settlement date are recognized in Non-interest income in the Consolidated Statement of Income. 

Securities at fair value through profit or loss are recognized at fair value. Interest income, any transaction costs, as well as realized and unrealized gains or 
losses on securities held for trading are recognized in Non-interest income – Trading revenues (losses) in the Consolidated Statement of Income. Dividend income 
is recorded in Interest income in the Consolidated Statement of Income. Interest income on securities designated at fair value through profit or loss is recorded 
in Interest income in the Consolidated Statement of Income. Realized and unrealized gains or losses on these securities are recognized in Non-interest income 
– Trading revenues (losses) in the Consolidated Statement of Income. 

Realized and unrealized gains or losses on equity securities at fair value through profit or loss, other than those held for trading, as well as debt securities for 
which the contractual cash flows are not solely payments of principal and interest on the principal amount outstanding, are recognized in Non-interest income 
– Gains (losses) on non-trading securities, net  in  the  Consolidated  Statement  of  Income.  The  dividend  and  interest  income  on  these  financial  assets  are 
recognized in Interest income in the Consolidated Statement of Income. 

Securities Purchased Under Reverse Repurchase Agreements, Obligations Related to Securities Sold  
Under Repurchase Agreements, and Securities Borrowed and Loaned  
The Bank recognizes these transactions at amortized cost using the effective interest rate method, except when they are designated at fair value through profit 
or loss and are recorded at fair value. These transactions are held within a business model whose objective is to collect contractual cash flows, i.e., cash flows 
that are solely payments of principal and interest on the principal amount outstanding. Securities sold under repurchase agreements remain on the Consolidated 
Balance  Sheet,  whereas  securities  purchased  under  reverse  repurchase  agreements  are  not  recognized.  Reverse  repurchase  agreements  and  repurchase 
agreements are treated as collateralized lending and borrowing transactions. 

124

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National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

The Bank also borrows and lends securities. Securities loaned remain on the Consolidated Balance Sheet while securities borrowed are not recognized. As part 
of  these  transactions,  the  Bank  pledges  or  receives  collateral  in  the  form  of  cash  or  securities.  Collateral  pledged  in  the  form  of  securities  remains  on  the 
Consolidated Balance Sheet. Collateral received in the form of securities is not recognized on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. Collateral pledged or received in 
the form of cash is recognized in financial assets or liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. 

When the collateral is pledged or received in the form of cash, the interest income and expense are recorded in Net interest income in the Consolidated Statement 
of Income.  

Loans 
Loans Measured at Amortized Cost 
Loans classified as measured at amortized cost include loans originated or purchased by the Bank that are not classified as measured at fair value through profit 
or loss or designated at fair value through profit or loss. These loans are held within a business model whose objective is to collect contractual cash flows, i.e., 
cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest on the principal amount outstanding. All loans originated by the Bank are recognized when cash is 
advanced to a borrower. Purchased loans are recognized when the cash consideration is paid by the Bank. 

All loans are initially recognized at fair value plus directly attributable costs and are subsequently measured at amortized cost using the effective interest rate 
method, net of an allowance for expected credit losses. For purchased performing loans, the acquisition date fair value adjustment on each loan is amortized to 
interest income over the expected remaining life of the loan using the effective interest rate method. For purchased credit-impaired loans, the acquisition date 
fair value adjustment on each loan consists of management’s estimate of the shortfall of principal and interest cash flows that the Bank expects to collect and 
of the time value of money. The time value of money component of the fair value adjustment is amortized to interest income over the remaining life of the loan 
using the effective interest rate method. Loans are presented net of allowances for credit losses on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. 

Loans Measured at Fair Value Through Profit or Loss 
Loans classified as measured at fair value through profit or loss, loans designated at fair value through profit or loss, and loans for which the contractual cash 
flows are not solely payments of principal and interest on the principal amount outstanding are recognized at fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. The 
interest income on loans at fair value through profit or loss is recorded in Interest income in the Consolidated Statement of Income. 

Changes in the fair value of loans classified as at fair value through profit or loss and loans designated at fair value through profit or loss are recognized in Non-
interest income – Trading revenues (losses) in the Consolidated Statement of Income. With respect to loans whose contractual cash flows are not solely payments 
of principal and interest on the principal amount outstanding, changes in fair value are recognized in Non-interest income – Other in the Consolidated Statement 
of Income. 

Reclassification of Financial Assets 
A financial asset, other than a derivative financial instrument or a financial asset that, at initial recognition, was designated as measured at fair value through 
profit or loss, is reclassified only in rare situations, i.e., when there is a change in the business model used to manage the financial asset. The reclassification is 
applied prospectively from the reclassification date. 

EEssttaabblliisshhiinngg  FFaaiirr  VVaalluuee 
The fair value of a financial instrument is the price that would be received to sell a financial asset or paid to transfer a financial liability in an orderly transaction 
in the principal market at the measurement date under current market conditions (i.e., an exit price).   

Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets, based on bid prices for financial assets and offered prices for financial liabilities, provide the best evidence of fair 
value. A financial instrument is considered quoted in an active market when prices in exchange, dealer, broker or principal-to-principal markets are accessible 
at the measurement date. An active market is one where transactions occur with sufficient frequency and volume to provide quoted prices on an ongoing basis.  

When there is no quoted price in an active market, the Bank uses another valuation technique that maximizes the use of relevant observable inputs and minimizes 
the use of unobservable inputs. The chosen valuation technique incorporates all the factors that market participants would consider when pricing a transaction. 
Judgment is required when applying a large number of acceptable valuation techniques and estimates to determine fair value. The estimated fair value reflects 
market conditions on the valuation date and, consequently, may not be indicative of future fair value. 

The best evidence of the fair value of a financial instrument at initial recognition is the transaction price, i.e., the fair value of the consideration received or paid. 
If there is a difference between the fair value at initial recognition and the transaction price, and the fair value is determined using a valuation technique based 
on  observable  market  inputs  or,  in  the  case  of  a  derivative,  if  the  risks  are  fully  offset  by  other  contracts  entered  into  with  third  parties,  this  difference  is 
recognized in  the Consolidated Statement of Income. In other cases, the difference between the fair value at initial recognition  and  the  transaction price  is 
deferred on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. The amount of the deferred gain or loss is recognized over the term of the financial instrument. The unamortized 
balance is immediately recognized in net income when (i) observable market inputs can be obtained and support the fair value of the transaction, (ii) the risks 
associated with the initial contract are substantially offset by other contracts entered into with third parties, (iii) the gain or loss is realized through a cash receipt 
or payment, or (iv) the transaction matures or is cancelled before maturity.  

National Bank of Canada 

125

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Note 1 – Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (cont.) 

In certain cases, measurement adjustments are recognized to address factors that market participants would use at the measurement date to determine fair 
value but that are not included in the measurement technique due to system limitations or uncertainty surrounding the measure. These factors include, but are 
not limited to, the unobservable nature of inputs used in the valuation model, assumptions about risk such as market risk, credit risk, or risk related to the 
valuation model, and future administration costs. The Bank may also consider market liquidity risk when determining the fair value of financial instruments when 
it believes these instruments could be disposed of for a consideration below the fair value otherwise determined due to a lack of market liquidity or an insufficient 
volume of transactions in a given market.  

As permitted when certain criteria are met, the Bank has elected to determine fair value based on net exposure to credit risk or market risk for certain portfolios 
of financial instruments, mainly derivative financial instruments. 

IImmppaaiirrmmeenntt  ooff  FFiinnaanncciiaall  AAsssseettss    
At the end of each reporting period, the Bank applies a three-stage impairment approach to measure the expected credit losses (ECL) on all debt instruments 
measured at amortized cost or at fair value through other comprehensive income and on loan commitments and financial guarantees that are not measured at 
fair value. The ECL model is forward looking. Measurement of ECLs at each reporting period reflects reasonable and supportable information about past events, 
current conditions, and forecasts of future events and economic conditions. 

Determining the Stage 
The ECL three-stage impairment approach is based on the change in the credit quality of financial assets since initial recognition. If, at the reporting date, the 
credit risk of non-impaired financial instruments has not increased significantly since initial recognition, these financial instruments are classified in Stage 1, 
and an allowance for credit losses that is measured, at each reporting date, in an amount equal to 12-month expected credit losses is recorded. When there is a 
significant increase in credit risk since initial recognition, these non-impaired financial instruments are migrated to Stage 2, and an allowance for credit losses 
that is measured, at each reporting date, in an amount equal to lifetime expected credit losses is recorded. In subsequent reporting periods, if the credit risk of 
the financial instrument improves such that there is no longer a significant increase in credit risk since initial recognition, the ECL model requires reverting to 
Stage 1, i.e., recognition of 12-month expected credit losses. When one or more events that have a detrimental impact on the estimated future cash flows of a 
financial asset have occurred, the financial asset is considered credit-impaired and is migrated to Stage 3, and an allowance for credit losses equal to lifetime 
expected losses continues to be recorded or the financial asset is written off. Interest income is calculated on the gross carrying amount for financial assets in 
Stages 1 and 2 and on the net carrying amount for financial assets in Stage 3. 

Assessment of Significant Increase in Credit Risk 
In determining whether credit risk has increased significantly, the Bank uses an internal credit risk grading system, external risk ratings, and forward-looking 
information to assess deterioration in credit quality of a financial instrument. To assess whether or not the credit risk of a financial instrument has increased 
significantly, the Bank compares the probability of default (PD) occurring over its expected life as at the reporting date with the PD occurring over its expected 
life  on  the  date  of  initial  recognition  and  considers  reasonable  and  supportable  information  indicative  of  a  significant  increase  in  credit  risk  since  initial 
recognition. The Bank includes relative and absolute thresholds in the definition of significant increase in credit risk and a backstop of 30 days past due. All 
financial instruments that are 30 days past due are migrated to Stage 2 even if other metrics do not indicate that a significant increase in credit risk has occurred. 
The assessment of a significant increase in credit risk requires significant judgment. 

Measurement of Expected Credit Losses 
ECLs are measured as the probability-weighted present value of all expected cash shortfalls over the remaining expected life of the financial instrument, and 
reasonable  and  supportable  information  about  past  events,  current  conditions  and  forecasts  of  future  events  and  economic  conditions  is  considered.  The 
estimation and application of forward-looking information requires significant judgment. The cash shortfall is the difference between all contractual cash flows 
owed to the Bank and all cash flows that the Bank expects to receive.  

The measurement of ECLs is primarily based on the product of the financial instrument’s PD, loss given default (LGD), and exposure at default (EAD). Forward-
looking  macroeconomic  factors  such  as  unemployment  rates,  housing  price  indices,  interest  rates,  and  GDP  are  incorporated  into  the  risk  parameters.  The 
estimate of expected credit losses reflects an unbiased and probability-weighted amount that is determined by evaluating a range of possible outcomes. The 
Bank incorporates three forward-looking macroeconomic scenarios in its ECL calculation process: a base scenario, an upside scenario and a downside scenario. 
Probability weights are attributed to each scenario. The scenarios and probability weights are reassessed quarterly and are subject to management review. The 
Bank applies experienced credit judgment to adjust the modelled ECL results when it becomes evident that known or expected risk factors and information were 
not considered in the credit risk rating and modelling process. 

126

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National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

ECLs for all financial instruments are recognized in Provisions for credit losses in the Consolidated Statement of Income. In the case of debt instruments measured 
at  fair  value  through  other  comprehensive  income,  ECLs  are  recognized  in  Provisions for credit losses in  the  Consolidated  Statement  of  Income,  and  a 
corresponding amount is recognized in Other comprehensive income with no reduction in the carrying amount of the asset on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. 
As  for  debt  instruments  measured  at  amortized  cost,  they  are  presented  net  of  the  related  allowance  for  credit  losses  on  the  Consolidated  Balance  Sheet. 
Allowances  for  credit  losses  for  off-balance-sheet  credit  exposures  that  are  not  measured  at  fair  value  are  included  in Other liabilities  on  the  Consolidated 
Balance Sheet. 

Purchased or Originated Credit-Impaired Financial Assets 
On initial recognition of a financial asset, the Bank determines whether the asset is credit-impaired. For financial assets that are credit-impaired upon purchase 
or origination, the lifetime expected credit losses are reflected in the initial fair value. In subsequent reporting periods, the Bank recognizes only the cumulative 
changes in these lifetime ECLs since initial recognition as an allowance for credit losses. The Bank recognizes changes in ECLs in Provisions for credit losses in 
the Consolidated Statement of Income, even if the lifetime ECLs are less than ECLs that were included in the estimated cash flows on initial recognition. 

Definition of Default 
The definition of default used by the Bank to measure ECLs and transfer financial instruments between stages is consistent with the definition of default used 
for internal credit risk management purposes. The Bank considers a financial asset, other than a credit card receivable, to be credit-impaired when one or more 
events that have a detrimental impact on the estimated future cash flows of the financial asset have occurred or when contractual payments are 90 days past 
due. Credit card receivables are considered credit-impaired and are fully written off at the earlier of the following: when a notice of bankruptcy is received, a 
settlement proposal is made, or contractual payments are 180 days past due. 

Write-offs 
A financial asset and its related allowance for credit losses are normally written off in whole or in part when the Bank considers the probability of recovery to be 
non-existent and when all guarantees and other remedies available to the Bank have been exhausted or if the borrower is bankrupt or winding up and balances 
owing are not likely to be recovered.  

DDeerreeccooggnniittiioonn  ooff  FFiinnaanncciiaall  AAsssseettss  aanndd  SSeeccuurriittiizzaattiioonn  
A financial asset is considered for derecognition when the Bank has transferred contractual rights to receive the cash flows or assumed an obligation to transfer 
these cash flows to a third party. The Bank derecognizes a financial asset when it considers that substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership of the asset 
have been transferred or when the contractual rights to the cash flows of the financial asset expire. When the Bank considers that it has retained substantially 
all the risks and rewards of ownership of the transferred asset, it continues to recognize the financial asset and, if applicable, recognizes a financial liability on 
the Consolidated Balance Sheet. If, due to a derivative financial instrument, the transfer of a financial asset does not result in derecognition, the derivative 
financial instrument is not recognized on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. 

When the Bank has neither transferred nor retained substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership of the financial asset, it derecognizes the financial asset 
it no longer controls. Any rights and obligations retained following the asset transfer are recognized separately as an asset or liability. If the Bank retains control 
of the financial asset, it continues to recognize the asset to the extent of its continuing involvement in that asset, i.e., to the extent to which it is exposed to 
changes in the value of the transferred asset. 

In order to diversify its funding sources, the Bank participates in two Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) securitization programs: the Mortgage-
Backed Securities Program under the National Housing Act (Canada) (NHA) and Canada Mortgage Bond (CMB) program. Under the first program, the Bank issues 
NHA securities backed by insured residential mortgages and, under the second, the Bank sells NHA securities to Canada Housing Trust (CHT). As part of these 
transactions, the Bank retains substantially all the risks and rewards related to ownership of the mortgage loans sold. Therefore, the insured mortgage loans 
securitized  under  the  CMB  program  continue  to  be  recognized  in  the  Loans  item  of  the  Bank’s  Consolidated  Balance  Sheet  and  the  liabilities  for  the 
considerations received from the transfer are recognized in Liabilities related to transferred receivables on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. Moreover, insured 
mortgage loans securitized and retained by the Bank continue to be recognized in Loans on the Consolidated Balance Sheet.  

DDeerreeccooggnniittiioonn  ooff  FFiinnaanncciiaall  LLiiaabbiilliittiieess 
A financial liability is derecognized when the obligation is discharged, cancelled or expires. The difference between the carrying value of the financial liability 
transferred and the consideration paid is recognized in the Consolidated Statement of Income. 

CCaasshh  aanndd  DDeeppoossiittss  WWiitthh  FFiinnaanncciiaall  IInnssttiittuuttiioonnss    
Cash and deposits with financial institutions consist of cash and cash equivalents, amounts pledged as collateral as well as amounts placed in escrow. Cash 
comprises cash and bank notes. Cash equivalents consist of deposits with the Bank of Canada, deposits with financial institutions, including net receivables 
related to cheques and other items in the clearing process as well as the net amount of cheques and other items in transit. 

AAcccceeppttaanncceess  aanndd  CCuussttoommeerrss’’  LLiiaabbiilliittyy  UUnnddeerr  AAcccceeppttaanncceess    
The potential liability of the Bank under acceptances is recorded as a customer commitment liability on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. The Bank’s potential 
recourse vis à vis clients is recorded as an equivalent offsetting asset. Fees are recorded in Non-interest income in the Consolidated Statement of Income. 

National Bank of Canada 

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National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Note 1 – Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (cont.) 

OObblliiggaattiioonnss  RReellaatteedd  ttoo  SSeeccuurriittiieess  SSoolldd  SShhoorrtt  
This financial liability represents the Bank’s obligation to deliver the securities it sold but did not own at the time of sale. Obligations related to securities sold 
short are recorded at fair value and presented as liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. Realized and unrealized gains and losses are recognized in Non-
interest income in the Consolidated Statement of Income. 

DDeerriivvaattiivvee  FFiinnaanncciiaall  IInnssttrruummeennttss    
In the normal course of business, the Bank uses derivative financial instruments to meet the needs of its clients, to generate trading activity revenues, and to 
manage its exposure to interest rate risk, foreign exchange risk, credit risk and other market risks. 

All derivative financial instruments are measured at fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. Derivative financial instruments with a positive fair value are 
included in assets, and derivative financial instruments with a negative fair value are included in liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. Where there are 
offsetting financial assets and financial liabilities, the net fair value of certain derivative financial instruments is reported either as an asset or as a liability. 

Embedded Derivative Financial Instruments 
An embedded derivative is a component of a hybrid contract that also includes a non-derivative host, the effect being that some of the cash flows of the combined 
instrument vary in a way similar to a stand-alone derivative. An embedded derivative causes some or all of the cash flows that otherwise would be required by 
the contract to be modified according to a specified interest rate, financial instrument price, commodity price, foreign exchange rate, index of prices or rates, 
credit rating or credit index, or other variable, provided in the case of a non-financial variable that the variable is not specific to one of the parties to the contract.  

A derivative embedded in a financial liability is separated from the host contract and treated as a separate derivative if, and only if, the following three conditions 
are met: the economic characteristics and risks of the embedded derivative are not closely related to those of the host contract, the embedded derivative is a 
separate instrument that meets the definition of a derivative financial instrument, and the hybrid contract is not measured at fair value through profit or loss. 

Embedded derivatives that are separately accounted for are measured at fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheet, and subsequent changes in fair value are 
recognized in Non-interest income in the Consolidated Statement of Income. In general, all embedded derivatives are presented on a combined basis with the 
host  contract.  However,  certain  embedded  derivatives  that  are  separated  from  the  host  contract  are  presented  in Derivative financial instruments on  the 
Consolidated Balance Sheet. 

Held-for-Trading Derivative Financial Instruments 
Derivative  financial  instruments  are  recognized  at  fair  value,  and  the  realized  and  unrealized  gains  and  losses  (including  interest  income  and  expense)  are 
recorded in Non-interest income in the Consolidated Statement of Income.  

Derivative Financial Instruments Designated as Hedging Instruments 
Policy 
The purpose of a hedging transaction is to modify the Bank’s exposure to one or more risks by creating an offset between changes in the fair value of, or the cash 
flows  attributable  to,  the  hedged  item  and  the  hedging  instrument.  Hedge  accounting  ensures  that  offsetting  gains,  losses,  revenues  and  expenses  are 
recognized in the Consolidated Statement of Income in the same period or periods. 

Documenting and Assessing Effectiveness 
The Bank designates and formally documents each hedging relationship, at its inception, by detailing the risk management objective and the hedging strategy. 
The documentation identifies the specific asset, liability, or cash flows being hedged, the related hedging instrument, the nature of the specific risk exposure or 
exposures  being  hedged,  the  intended  term  of  the  hedging  relationship,  and  the  method  for  assessing  the  effectiveness  or  ineffectiveness  of  the  hedging 
relationship. At the inception of the hedging relationship, and for every financial reporting period for which the hedge has been designated, the Bank ensures 
that  the  hedging  relationship  is  highly  effective  and  consistent  with  its  originally  documented  risk  management  objective  and  strategy.  When  a  hedging 
relationship meets the hedge accounting requirements, it is designated as either a fair value hedge, a cash flow hedge or a foreign exchange hedge of a net 
investment in a foreign operation. 

Fair Value Hedges 
For fair value hedges, the Bank mainly uses interest rate swaps to hedge changes in the fair value of a hedged item. The carrying amount of the hedged item is 
adjusted based on the effective portion of the gains or losses attributable to the hedged risk, which are recognized in the Consolidated Statement of Income, as 
well as the change in the fair value of the hedging instrument. The resulting ineffective portion is recognized in Non-interest income in the Consolidated Statement 
of Income.  

128

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Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

The Bank prospectively discontinues hedge accounting if the hedging instrument is sold or expires or if the hedging relationship no longer qualifies for hedge 
accounting or if the Bank revokes the designation. When the designation is revoked, the hedged item is no longer adjusted to reflect changes in fair value, and 
the amounts previously recorded as cumulative adjustments with respect to the effective portion of gains and losses attributable to the hedged risk are amortized 
using the effective interest rate method and recognized in the Consolidated Statement of Income over the remaining useful life of the hedged item. If the hedged 
item is sold or terminated before maturity, the cumulative adjustments with respect to the effective portion of gains and losses attributable to the hedged risk 
are immediately recorded in the Consolidated Statement of Income. 

Cash Flow Hedges 
For cash flow hedges, the Bank mainly uses interest rate swaps and total return swaps to hedge variable cash flows attributable to the hedged risk related to a 
financial asset or liability (or to a group of financial assets or liabilities). The effective portion of changes in fair value of the hedging instrument is recognized in 
Other comprehensive income and the ineffective portion in Non-interest income in the Consolidated Statement of Income. 

The amounts previously recorded in Accumulated other comprehensive income are reclassified to the Consolidated Statement of Income of the period or periods 
during which the cash flows of the hedged item affect the Consolidated Statement of Income. If the hedging instrument is sold or expires or if the hedging 
relationship no longer qualifies for hedge accounting or if the Bank cancels that designation, then the amounts previously recognized in Accumulated other 
comprehensive income are reclassified to the Consolidated Statement of Income in the period or periods during which the cash flows of the hedged item affect 
the Consolidated Statement of Income. 

Hedges of Net Investments in Foreign Operations  
Derivative and non-derivative financial instruments are used to hedge foreign exchange risk related to investments made in foreign operations whose functional 
currency is not the Canadian dollar. The effective portion of the gains and losses on the hedging instrument is recognized in Other comprehensive income and 
the ineffective portion in Non-interest income in the Consolidated Statement of Income. Upon the total or partial sale of a net investment in a foreign operation, 
amounts reported in Accumulated other comprehensive income are reclassified, in whole or in part, to Non-interest income in the Consolidated Statement of 
Income.  

OOffffsseettttiinngg  ooff  FFiinnaanncciiaall  AAsssseettss  aanndd  LLiiaabbiilliittiieess  
Financial assets and liabilities are offset, and the net amount is presented on the Consolidated Balance Sheet when the Bank has a legally enforceable right to 
set off the recognized amounts and intends to settle on a net basis or to realize the asset and settle the liability simultaneously. 

PPrreemmiisseess  aanndd  EEqquuiippmmeenntt  
Premises and equipment, except for land and the head office building under construction, are recognized at cost less accumulated amortization and accumulated 
impairment losses. Land and the head office building under construction are recorded at cost less any impairment losses. 

Premises and equipment and the significant components of a building that have different useful lives or that provide economic benefits at a different pace are 
systematically amortized over their useful lives. Amortization methods and useful lives are reviewed on an annual basis. The amortization expense is recorded 
in Non-interest expenses in the Consolidated Statement of Income. 

Significant components of a building 
  Exterior design 
  Interior design, roofing and electromechanical system 
  Structure 
Other buildings 
Computer equipment 
Equipment and furniture 
Leasehold improvements 

Method 

Useful life  

Straight-line 
Straight-line 
Straight-line 
5% declining balance 
Straight-line  
Straight-line  
Straight-line  

20 years  
30 years  
75 years  

3-4 years  
1-8 years  
(1)  

(1) 

The average amortization period is 15 years, determined using the lesser of the useful life or the lease term plus the first renewal option. 

GGooooddwwiillll    
The  Bank  uses  the  acquisition  method  to  account  for  business  combinations.  The  consideration  transferred  in  a  business  combination  is  measured  at  the 
acquisition-date fair value, and the transaction costs related to the acquisition are expensed as incurred. When the Bank acquires control of a business, all of 
the identifiable assets and liabilities of the acquiree, including intangible assets, are recorded at fair value. The interests previously held in the acquiree are also 
measured at fair value. Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase consideration and all previously held interests over the fair value of the identifiable net 
assets of the acquiree. If the fair value of the identifiable net assets exceeds the purchase consideration and all previously held interests, the difference is 
immediately recognized as a gain on a bargain purchase. 

National Bank of Canada 

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Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Note 1 – Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (cont.) 

Non-controlling interests in the net assets of consolidated subsidiaries are identified separately from the Bank’s ownership interest and can be initially measured 
at either fair value or at the non-controlling interest’s proportionate share of the acquiree’s identifiable net assets. The measurement basis is selected on a case-
by-case basis. Following an acquisition, non-controlling interests consist of the value assigned to those interests at initial recognition plus the non-controlling 
interests’ share of changes in equity since the date of the acquisition. 

IInnttaannggiibbllee  AAsssseettss  
Intangible Assets With Finite Useful Lives   
Software and certain other intangible assets are recognized at cost less accumulated amortization and accumulated impairment losses. These intangible assets 
are systematically amortized on a straight-line basis over their useful lives, which vary between four and ten years. The amortization expense is recorded in Non-
interest expenses in the Consolidated Statement of Income. 

Intangible Assets With Indefinite Useful Lives  
The Bank’s intangible assets with indefinite useful lives come from the acquisition of subsidiaries or groups of assets and consist of management contracts and 
a trademark. They are recognized at the acquisition-date fair value. The management contracts are for the management of open-ended funds. At the end of each 
reporting period, the Bank reviews the useful lives to determine whether events and circumstances continue to support an indefinite useful life assessment. 
Intangible  assets  are  deemed  to  have  an  indefinite  useful  life  following  an  examination  of  all  relevant  factors,  in  particular:  (a)  the  contracts  do  not  have 
contractual maturities; (b) the stability of the business segment to which the intangible assets belong; (c) the Bank’s capacity to control the future economic 
benefits of the intangible assets; and (d) the continued economic benefits generated by the intangible assets. 

IImmppaaiirrmmeenntt  ooff  NNoonn--FFiinnaanncciiaall  AAsssseettss  
Premises and equipment and intangible assets with finite useful lives are tested for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate that their 
carrying value may not be recoverable. At the end of each reporting period, the Bank determines whether there is an indication that premises and equipment or 
intangible assets with finite useful lives may be impaired. Goodwill and intangible assets that are not yet available for use or that have indefinite useful lives are 
tested for impairment annually or more frequently if there is an indication that the asset might be impaired.  

An asset is tested for impairment by comparing its carrying amount with its recoverable amount. The recoverable amount must be estimated for the individual 
asset. Where it is not possible to estimate the recoverable amount of an individual asset, the recoverable amount of the cash-generating unit (CGU) to which the 
asset belongs will be determined. A CGU is the smallest identifiable group of assets that generates cash inflows that are largely independent of the cash inflows 
from other assets or groups of assets. The Bank uses judgment to identify CGUs. 

An asset’s recoverable amount is the higher of fair value less costs to sell and the value in use of the asset or CGU. Value in use is the present value of expected 
future cash flows from the asset or CGU. The recoverable amount of the CGU is determined using valuation models that consider various factors such as projected 
future cash flows, discount rates, and growth rates. The use of different estimates and assumptions in applying the impairment tests could have a significant 
impact on income. 

Corporate assets, such as the head office building and computer equipment, do not generate cash inflows that are largely independent of the cash inflows 
generated by other assets or groups of assets. Therefore, the recoverable amount of an individual corporate asset cannot be determined unless management 
has decided to dispose of the asset. However, if there is an indication that a corporate asset may be impaired, the recoverable amount is determined for the CGU 
or group of CGUs to which the corporate asset belongs, and that recoverable amount is compared with the carrying amount of this CGU or group of CGUs. 

Goodwill is always tested for impairment at the level of a CGU or group of CGUs. For impairment testing purposes, from the acquisition date, goodwill resulting 
from a business combination must be allocated to the CGU or group of CGUs expected to benefit from the synergies of the business combination. Each CGU or 
group of CGUs to which goodwill is allocated must represent the lowest level for which the goodwill is monitored internally at the Bank and must not be larger 
than an operating segment. The allocation of goodwill to a CGU or group of CGUs involves management’s judgment. If an impairment loss is to be recognized, 
the Bank does so by first reducing the carrying amount of goodwill allocated to the CGU or group of CGUs and then reducing the carrying amounts of the other 
assets of the CGU or group of CGUs in proportion to the carrying amount of each asset in the CGU or group of CGUs. 

If the recoverable amount of an asset or a CGU is less than its carrying amount, the carrying amount is reduced to its recoverable amount and an impairment loss 
is recognized in Non-interest expenses in the Consolidated Statement of Income. An impairment loss recognized in prior periods for an asset other than goodwill 
must be reversed if, and only if, there has been a change in the estimates used to determine the asset’s recoverable amount since the last impairment was 
recognized. If this is the case, the carrying amount of the asset is increased, given that the impairment loss was reversed, but shall not exceed the carrying 
amount that would have been determined, net of amortization, had no impairment loss been recognized for this asset in previous years. 

130

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National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

LLeeaasseess  
A lease is an agreement whereby the lessor conveys to the lessee the right to use an asset for an agreed period of time in return for a payment or series of 
payments. A finance lease is a lease that transfers substantially all the risks and rewards incidental to ownership of the leased asset to the lessee. Title may or 
may not eventually be transferred. An operating lease is a lease other than a finance lease. The Bank primarily enters into operating leases. 

When the Bank is the lessee under an operating lease, the rental expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term in Non-interest expenses in 
the Consolidated Statement of Income. When the Bank is the lessor, the lease assets remain on the Consolidated Balance Sheet and are reported in premises 
and equipment, and the rental income is recognized net of related expenses in Non-interest income in the Consolidated Statement of Income. 

PPrroovviissiioonnss  
Provisions are liabilities of uncertain timing and amount. A provision is recognized when the Bank has a present obligation (legal or constructive) arising from a 
past event, when it is probable that an outflow of economic resources will be required to settle the obligation and when the amount of the obligation can be 
reliably estimated. Provisions are based on the Bank’s best estimates of the economic resources required to settle the present obligation, given all relevant risks 
and uncertainties, and, when it is significant, the effect of the time value of money. Provisions are reviewed at the end of each reporting period. Provisions are 
presented in Other liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. 

IInntteerreesstt  IInnccoommee  aanndd  EExxppeennssee  
Interest income and expense, except for the interest income on securities classified as at fair value through profit or loss, are recognized in Net interest income 
and calculated using the effective interest rate method.  

The effective interest rate is the rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash inflows and outflows through the expected life of the financial asset or financial 
liability to the gross carrying amount of a financial asset or to the amortized cost of a financial liability. When calculating the effective interest rate, the Bank 
estimates expected cash flows by considering all the contractual terms of the financial instrument but does not consider expected credit losses. The calculation 
includes all fees and points paid or received between the parties to the contract that are an integral part of the effective interest rate, transaction costs, and all 
other premiums or discounts. Interest income is calculated by applying the effective interest rate to the gross carrying amount of a financial asset except for 
purchased or originated credit-impaired financial assets and financial assets that were not impaired upon their purchase or origination but became impaired 
thereafter. For purchased or originated credit-impaired financial assets, the Bank applies the credit-adjusted effective interest rate to the amortized cost of the 
financial asset from initial recognition. The credit-adjusted effective interest rate reflects expected credit losses. As for loans that have subsequently become 
credit-impaired, interest income is calculated by applying the effective interest rate to the net carrying amount (net of allowances for credit losses) rather than 
to the carrying amount. 

Loan origination fees, including commitment, restructuring, and renegotiation fees, are considered an integral part of the yield earned on the loan. They are 
deferred and amortized using the effective interest rate method, and the amortization is recognized in Interest income over the term of the loan. Direct costs for 
originating a loan are netted against the loan origination fees. If it is likely that a commitment will result in a loan, commitment fees receive the same accounting 
treatment, i.e., they are deferred and amortized using the effective interest rate method and the amortization is recognized in Interest income over the term of 
the loan. Otherwise, they are recorded in Non-interest income over the term of the commitment.  

Loan syndication fees are recorded in Non-interest income unless the yield on the loan retained by the Bank is less than that of other comparable lenders involved 
in the financing. In such cases, an appropriate portion of the fees is deferred and amortized using the effective interest rate method, and the amortization is 
recognized in Interest income over the term of the loan. Certain mortgage loan prepayment fees are recognized in Interest income in the Consolidated Statement 
of Income when earned. 

DDiivviiddeenndd  IInnccoommee  
Dividends from an equity instrument are recognized in Net interest income in the Consolidated Statement of Income when the Bank’s right to receive payment is 
established. 

FFeeee  aanndd  CCoommmmiissssiioonn  IInnccoommee  
Fee and commission income is recognized when, or as, a performance obligation is satisfied, i.e., when control of a promised service is transferred to a customer 
and in  an amount that reflects the consideration  that the entity expects to be entitled to receive in exchange for the service. The revenue may therefore be 
recognized at a point in time, upon completion of the service, or over time as services are provided.  

The Bank must also determine whether its performance obligation is to provide the service itself or to arrange for another party to provide the service (in other 
words, whether the Bank is acting as a principal or agent). A principal may itself satisfy its performance obligation to provide the specified good or service or it 
may engage another party to satisfy some or all of the performance obligation on its behalf. A principal also has the primary responsibility for fulfilling the 
promise to provide the good or service to the customer and has discretion in establishing the price for the service. If the Bank is acting as a principal, revenue is 
recognized on a gross basis in an amount corresponding to the consideration to which the Bank expects to be entitled. If the Bank is acting as an agent, then 
revenue is recognized net of the service fees and other costs incurred in relation to the commission and fees earned. 

National Bank of Canada 

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Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Note 1 – Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (cont.) 

Underwriting and Advisory Fees 
Underwriting  and  advisory  fees  include  underwriting  fees,  financial  advisory  fees,  and  loan  syndication  fees.  These  fees  are  mainly  earned  in  the  Financial 
Markets segment and are recognized at a point in time as revenue upon successful completion of the engagement. Financial advisory fees are fees earned for 
assisting customers with transactions related to mergers and acquisitions and financial restructurings. Loan syndication fees represent fees earned as the agent 
or lead lender responsible for structuring, arranging, and administering a loan syndication and are recorded in Non-interest income unless the yield on the loan 
retained by the Bank is less than that of other comparable lenders involved in the financing. In such cases, an appropriate portion of the fees is deferred and 
amortized using the effective interest rate method, and the amortization is recognized in Interest income over the term of the loan. 

Securities Brokerage Commissions 
Securities brokerage commissions are earned in the Wealth Management segment and are recognized at a point in time when the transaction is executed.  

Mutual Fund and Trust Service Revenues 
Mutual fund and trust service revenues include management and administration fees. These fees are earned in the Wealth Management segment. Management 
fees are primarily calculated on assets under management and are recorded over the period the services are performed. Administration fees are generally based 
on assets under administration or management and are recorded over the period the services are performed.   

Card Revenues 
Card revenues are earned in the Personal and Commercial segment and include card fees such as annual and transactional fees as well as interchange fees. 
Interchange fees are recognized when a card transaction is settled. Card fees are recognized on the transaction date except for annual fees, which are recorded 
evenly throughout the year. Reward costs are recorded as a reduction to interchange fees. 

Credit Fees and Deposit and Payment Service Charges 
Credit fees and deposit and payment service charges are earned in the Personal and Commercial, Financial Markets, and U.S. Specialty Finance and International 
segments. Credit fees are generally recognized in income over the period the services are provided. Deposit and payment service charges include fees related to 
account maintenance activities and transaction-based service charges. Fees related to account maintenance activities are recognized over the period the services 
are provided, whereas transaction-based service charges are recognized at a point in time when the transaction is completed. 

IInnssuurraannccee  RReevveennuueess  
Insurance contracts, including reinsurance contracts, are arrangements under which one party accepts significant insurance risk by agreeing to compensate the 
policyholder if a specified uncertain future event was to occur. Gross premiums, net of premiums transferred under reinsurance contracts, are recognized when 
they become due. Royalties received from reinsurers are recognized when earned. Claims are recognized when received and an amount is estimated as they are 
being processed. All these amounts are recognized on a net basis in Non-interest income in the Consolidated Statement of Income. 

Upon  recognition  of  a  premium,  a  reinsurance  asset  and  insurance  liability  are  recognized,  respectively,  in  Other assets and  in  Other liabilities on  the 
Consolidated  Balance  Sheet.  Subsequent  changes  in  the  carrying  value  of  the  reinsurance  asset  and  insurance  liability  are  recognized  on  a  net  basis  in 
Non-interest income in the Consolidated Statement of Income. 

IInnccoommee  TTaaxxeess  
Income  taxes  include  current  taxes  and  deferred  taxes  and  are  recorded  in  net  income  except  for  income  taxes  generated  by  items  recognized  in  Other 
comprehensive income or directly in equity. 

Current tax is the amount of income tax payable on the taxable income for a period. It is calculated using the enacted or substantively enacted tax rates prevailing 
on the reporting date, and any adjustments recognized in the period for the current tax of prior periods. Current tax assets and liabilities are offset, and the net 
balance is presented in either Other assets or Other liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheet when the Bank has a legally enforceable right to set off the 
recognized amounts and intends to settle on a net basis or to simultaneously realize the asset and settle the liability. 

132

132 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Deferred tax is established based on temporary differences between the carrying values and the tax bases of assets and liabilities, in accordance with enacted 
or substantively enacted income tax laws and rates that will apply on the date the differences will reverse. Deferred tax is not recognized for temporary differences 
related to the following: 

 
 

 

 

the initial accounting of goodwill; 
the initial  accounting of  an  asset or liability in a  transaction  that is  not a business combination  and that,  at  the time of  the transaction,  affects neither 
accounting income nor taxable income;   
investments in subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures when it is probable that the temporary difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future and 
that the Bank controls the timing of the reversal of the temporary difference; 
investments in subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures when it is probable that the temporary difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future and 
that there will not be taxable income to which the temporary difference can be recognized.  

Deferred tax assets are tax benefits in the form of deductions that the Bank may claim to reduce its taxable income in future years. At the end of each reporting 
period, the carrying amount of deferred tax assets is revised, and it is reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that sufficient taxable income will be 
available to allow the benefit of the deferred tax asset to be utilized. 

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset, and the net balance is presented in either Other assets or Other liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheet when 
the Bank has a legally enforceable right to set off the current tax assets and liabilities and if the deferred tax assets and liabilities relate to taxes levied by the 
same taxation authority on the same taxable entity or on different taxable entities that intend to settle current tax assets and liabilities based on their net amount. 

The Bank makes assumptions to estimate income taxes as well as deferred tax assets and liabilities. This process includes estimating the actual amount of 
current taxes and evaluating tax loss carryforwards and temporary differences arising from differences between the values of items reported for accounting and 
for income tax purposes. Deferred tax assets and liabilities presented on the Consolidated Balance Sheet are calculated according to the tax rates to be applied 
in  future  periods.  Previously  recorded  deferred  tax  assets  and  liabilities  must  be  adjusted  when  the  date  of  the  future  event  is  revised  based  on  current 
information.  

The Bank is subject to the jurisdictions of various tax authorities. In the normal course of its business, the Bank is involved in a number of transactions for which 
the tax impacts are uncertain. As a result, the Bank accounts for provisions for uncertain tax positions that adequately represent the tax risk stemming from tax 
matters  under  discussion  or  being  audited  by  tax  authorities  or  from  other  matters  involving  uncertainty.  The  amounts  of  these provisions  reflect  the  best 
possible estimates of the amounts that may have to be paid based on qualitative assessments of all relevant factors. The provisions are estimated at the end of 
each reporting period. However, it is possible that, at a future date, a provision might need to be adjusted following an audit by the tax authorities. When the 
final assessment differs from the initially provisioned amounts, the difference will impact the income taxes of the period in which the assessment was made.  

FFiinnaanncciiaall  GGuuaarraanntteeee  CCoonnttrraaccttss  
A financial guarantee contract is a contract or indemnification agreement that could require the Bank to make specified payments (in cash, financial instruments, 
other assets, Bank shares, or provisions of services) to reimburse a beneficiary in the event of a loss resulting from a debtor defaulting on the original or amended 
terms of a debt instrument. 

To reflect the fair value of the obligation assumed at the inception of a financial guarantee, a liability is recorded in Other liabilities on the Consolidated Balance 
Sheet. After initial recognition, the Bank must measure financial guarantee contracts at the higher of the allowance for credit losses determined using the ECL 
model and of the initially recognized amount less, where applicable, the cumulative amount of income recognized. This revenue is recognized in Credit fees in 
the Consolidated Statement of Income.  

EEmmppllooyyeeee  BBeenneeffiittss  ––  PPeennssiioonn  PPllaannss  aanndd  OOtthheerr  PPoosstt--EEmmppllooyymmeenntt  BBeenneeffiittss  
The Bank offers defined benefit pension plans and other post-employment benefit plans to eligible employees. Other post-employment benefit plans include 
post-employment medical, dental, and life insurance coverage. While pension plans are funded, the other plans are not. 

Plan expenses and obligations are actuarially determined based on the projected benefit method prorated on service. The calculations use management’s best 
estimates of various actuarial assumptions such as discount rates, rates of compensation increase, health care cost trend rates, mortality rates, and retirement 
age.  

The net asset or net liability of pension plans and other post-employment benefit plans are calculated separately for each plan as the difference between the 
present value of the future benefits earned by employees in respect of current- and prior-period service and the fair value of plan assets. The net asset or net 
liability is included in either the Other assets or Other liabilities item of the Consolidated Balance Sheet.  

National Bank of Canada 

133

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Note 1 – Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (cont.) 

The expense related to pension plans and other post-employment benefit plans consists of the following items: current service cost, net interest on the net plan 
asset  or liability,  administration costs,  and past service cost, if  any,  recognized when  a plan is  amended. This expense is recognized in Compensation and 
employee benefits in the Consolidated Statement of Income. The net amount of interest income and expense is determined by applying a discount rate to the 
net plan asset or liability amount. 

Remeasurements resulting from pension plans and other post-employment benefit plans represent actuarial gains and losses related to the defined benefit 
obligation  and  the  actual  return  on  plan  assets,  excluding  net  interest  determined  by  applying  a  discount  rate  to  the  net  asset  or  liability  of  the  plans. 
Remeasurements are immediately recognized in Other comprehensive income and will not be subsequently reclassified to net income; these cumulative gains 
and losses are reclassified to Retained earnings. 

SShhaarree--BBaasseedd  PPaayymmeennttss  
The Bank has several share-based compensation plans: the Stock Option Plan, the Stock Appreciation Rights (SAR) Plan, the Deferred Stock Unit (DSU) Plan, the 
Restricted Stock Unit (RSU) Plan, the Performance Stock Unit (PSU) Plan, the Deferred Compensation Plan (DCP) of National Bank Financial, and the Employee 
Share Ownership Plan. 

Compensation expense is recognized over the service period required for employees to become fully entitled to the award. This period is generally the same as 
the vesting period, except where the required service period begins before the award date. Compensation expense related to awards granted to employees 
eligible to retire on the award date is immediately recognized on the award date. Compensation expense related to awards granted to employees who will become 
eligible to retire during the vesting period is recognized over the period from the award date to the date the employee becomes eligible to retire. For all of these 
plans, as of the first year of recognition, the expense includes cancellation and forfeiture estimates. These estimates are subsequently revised as necessary. The 
Bank uses derivative financial instruments to hedge the risks associated with some of these plans. The compensation expense for these plans, net of related 
hedges, is recognized in the Consolidated Statement of Income. 

Under the Stock Option Plan, the Bank uses the fair value method to account for stock options awarded. The options vest at 25% per year, and each tranche is 
treated as though it was a separate award. The fair value of each of the tranches is measured on the award date using the Black-Scholes model, and this fair 
value is recognized in Compensation and employee benefits and Contributed surplus. When the options are exercised, the Contributed surplus amount is credited 
to Equity – Common shares on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. The proceeds received from the employees when these options are exercised are also credited 
to Equity – Common shares on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. 

SARs are recorded at fair value when awarded and their fair value is remeasured at the end of each reporting period until they are exercised. The cost is recognized 
in Compensation and employee benefits in the Consolidated Statement of Income and in Other liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. The obligation that 
results from the change in fair value at each period is recognized in net income gradually over the vesting period, and periodically thereafter, until the SARs are 
exercised.  When a SAR is exercised, the Bank makes a cash payment equal to the increase in the stock price since the date of the award. 

The obligation that results from the award of a DSU, RSU, PSU and DCP unit is recognized in net income, and the corresponding amount is included in Other 
liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. For the DSU, RSU and DCP plans, the change in the obligation attributable to variations in the share price and 
dividends paid on common shares for these plans is recognized in Compensation and employee benefits in the Consolidated Statement of Income for the period 
in which the variations occur. On the redemption date, the Bank makes a cash payment equal to the value of the common shares on that date. For the PSU Plan, 
the change in the obligation attributable to changes in the stock price, adjusted upward or downward depending on the relative result of the performance criteria, 
and the change in the obligation attributable to dividends paid on the shares awarded under the plan, are recognized in Compensation and employee benefits 
in the Consolidated Statement of Income for the period in which the changes occur. On the redemption date, the Bank makes a cash payment equal to the value 
of the common shares on that date, adjusted upward or downward according to the performance criteria.  

The Bank’s contributions to the employee share ownership plan are expensed as incurred. 

134

134 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

NNoottee  22  ––  FFuuttuurree  AAccccoouunnttiinngg  PPoolliiccyy  CChhaannggeess  

The IASB issues revisions and amendments to a number of standards, some of which have already had an impact on the Bank and others that could have an 
impact in the future. The Bank is currently assessing the impact that adoption of the following standards will have on its consolidated financial statements. A 
summary of these amendments and the effective dates applicable to the Bank are presented below.  

EEffffeeccttiivvee  DDaattee  ––  NNoovveemmbbeerr  11,,  22001199  
IFRS 16 – Leases 
In  January  2016,  the  IASB  issued  IFRS  16  –  Leases.  The  new  standard  replaces  the  previous  lease  accounting  standard,  IAS  17  –  Leases,  and  related 
interpretations. Under IAS 17, lessees and lessors were required to classify their leases as either finance leases or operating leases and to account for these two 
types of leases differently. IFRS 16 provides a single accounting model for lessees, requiring lessees to recognize a right-of-use asset as well as a liability that 
reflects the present value of future lease payments. Lessees will also recognize depreciation expense on the right-of-use asset and interest expense on the lease 
liability  in  the  Consolidated  Statement  of  Income.  As  for  lessors,  IFRS 16  substantially  carries  forward  the  lessor  accounting  in  IAS  17,  with  the  distinction 
between finance and operating leases being retained.  

The Bank has elected to apply IFRS 16 using the modified retrospective basis by adjusting the Consolidated Balance Sheet as at November 1, 2019, the date of 
initial application, with no restatement of comparative periods. The most significant impact to the Bank will be related to real estate leases, which are currently 
classified as operating leases.  

On transition, the Bank will apply, on a lease-by-lease basis, certain practical expedients. More specifically, it will measure the right-of-use assets at an amount 
equal to the lease liability, it will rely on the Bank’s assessment about whether leases are onerous as at October 31, 2019 as an alternative to performing an 
impairment  test  as  at  November  1,  2019,  and  it  will  exclude  initial  direct  costs  from  the  measurement  of  the  right-of-use  assets  as  at  November  1,  2019. 
Furthermore, on transition and thereafter, the Bank will exclude leases for which the underlying asset is of low value, will exclude short-term leases and, for real 
estate leases, will elect not to separate non-lease components from lease components.  

As at October 31, 2019, the Bank’s best estimate of the impact of adopting IFRS 16 is an increase in total assets of approximately $653 million representing 
leased premises, an increase in total liabilities of approximately $653 million primarily representing lease liabilities, and a decrease of approximately 9 basis 
points in the Common Equity Tier 1 (CET 1) capital ratio as at November 1, 2019. 

IFRIC Interpretation 23 – Uncertainty Over Income Tax Treatments 
In June 2017, the IASB issued IFRIC Interpretation 23, which addresses how to reflect tax treatment uncertainty in accounting for income taxes. This interpretation 
will not have an impact on the Bank’s Consolidated Balance Sheet as at November 1, 2019. 

EEffffeeccttiivvee  DDaattee  ––  NNoovveemmbbeerr  11,,  22002200  
Conceptual Framework for Financial Reporting 
On  March 29, 2018, the IASB published Conceptual Framework for Financial Reporting to replace  its 2010 conceptual framework. For the IASB, the revised 
conceptual framework has been in effect since its publication date. Early application is permitted. 

Reform to Benchmark Interest Rates (Amendments to IFRS 9, IAS 39 and IFRS 7) 
In September 2019, in response to uncertainty arising from the phasing-out of benchmark interest rates such as interbank offered rates (IBORs), the IASB issued 
amendments  to  its  new  and  former  financial  instrument  standards,  IFRS  9  – Financial Instruments  and  IAS  39  –  Financial Instruments: Recognition and 
Measurement as well as to the related standard on disclosures, IFRS 7 – Financial Instruments: Disclosures.  

The amendments modify certain hedge accounting requirements in IFRS 9 and IAS 39 to provide relief from the potential effects of the uncertainty caused by the 
IBOR reform. In addition, the amendments to IFRS 7 require additional disclosure about hedging relationships directly affected by this uncertainty. When the 
Bank adopted IFRS 9 on November 1, 2017, it made an accounting policy choice to continue applying the IAS 39 hedge accounting requirements.  

For the Bank, the effective date of these amendments is November 1, 2020. However, early adoption is permitted. 

EEffffeeccttiivvee  DDaattee  ––  NNoovveemmbbeerr  11,,  22002211  
IFRS 17 – Insurance Contracts 
In May 2017, the IASB issued IFRS 17 – Insurance Contracts, a new standard that replaces IFRS 4, the current insurance contract accounting standard. IFRS 17 
introduces a new accounting framework that will improve the comparability and quality of financial information. At its meeting on November 14, 2018, the IASB 
tentatively decided to defer the IFRS 17 effective date to fiscal years beginning on or after January 1, 2022.   

National Bank of Canada 

135

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Note 3 – Fair Value of Financial Instruments  

Fair Value and Carrying Value of Financial Instruments by Category 

Financial assets and financial liabilities are recognized on the Consolidated Balance Sheet at fair value or at amortized cost in accordance with the categories 
set out in the accounting framework for financial instruments.  

FFiinnaanncciiaall  
iinnssttrruummeennttss  
ccllaassssiiffiieedd  aass  
aatt  ffaaiirr  vvaalluuee  
tthhrroouugghh  pprrooffiitt  
oorr  lloossss  

FFiinnaanncciiaall
iinnssttrruummeennttss
ddeessiiggnnaatteedd
aatt  ffaaiirr  vvaalluuee
tthhrroouugghh  pprrooffiitt
oorr  lloossss

DDeebbtt  sseeccuurriittiieess  
ccllaassssiiffiieedd  aass  aatt  
ffaaiirr  vvaalluuee  
tthhrroouugghh  ootthheerr  
ccoommpprreehheennssiivvee  
iinnccoommee

CCaarrrryyiinngg  vvaalluuee
aanndd  ffaaiirr  vvaalluuee
EEqquuiittyy  sseeccuurriittiieess  
ddeessiiggnnaatteedd  aatt
ffaaiirr  vvaalluuee
tthhrroouugghh  ootthheerr
ccoommpprreehheennssiivvee  
iinnccoommee

AAss  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199

CCaarrrryyiinngg  
vvaalluuee  

FFaaiirr  
vvaalluuee

FFiinnaanncciiaall  
iinnssttrruummeennttss  
aatt  aammoorrttiizzeedd  
ccoosstt,,  nneett  

FFiinnaanncciiaall  
iinnssttrruummeennttss  
aatt  aammoorrttiizzeedd  
ccoosstt,,  nneett

TToottaall  
ccaarrrryyiinngg  
vvaalluuee

TToottaall  
ffaaiirr  
vvaalluuee

FFiinnaanncciiaall  aasssseettss  
  CCaasshh  aanndd  ddeeppoossiittss  wwiitthh  ffiinnaanncciiaall  
    iinnssttiittuuttiioonnss  

  SSeeccuurriittiieess  

  SSeeccuurriittiieess  ppuurrcchhaasseedd  uunnddeerr  rreevveerrssee  
    rreeppuurrcchhaassee  aaggrreeeemmeennttss  
    aanndd  sseeccuurriittiieess  bboorrrroowweedd  

  LLooaannss  aanndd  aacccceeppttaanncceess,,  nneett  ooff  aalllloowwaanncceess  

  OOtthheerr  
  Derivative financial instruments 
  Other assets 

FFiinnaanncciiaall  lliiaabbiilliittiieess  
  DDeeppoossiittss  

  OOtthheerr  
  Acceptances 
  Obligations related to securities sold short 
  Obligations related to securities sold under 
    repurchase agreements and 
    securities loaned 
  Derivative financial instruments 
  Liabilities related to transferred receivables 
  Other liabilities 

  SSuubboorrddiinnaatteedd  ddeebbtt  

(1) 

Includes embedded derivative financial instruments. 

−−   

5588,,555566   

−−

33,,226677

−−

1100,,002266

−−

662222

1133,,669988   

99,,775555   

1133,,669988

1133,,669988

1133,,669988  

99,,882244

8822,,222266

8822,,229955  

−−   

66,,779988   

88,,112299   
−−   

8877

−−

−−
−−

−−

−−

−−
−−

−−

−−

−−
−−

1177,,663366   

114466,,445533   

−−   
11,,119933   

1177,,663366

1177,,772233

1177,,772233  

114477,,005511

115533,,225511

115533,,884499  

−−
11,,119933

88,,112299
11,,119933

88,,112299  
11,,119933  

−−   

1111,,220033

117788,,336633  (1)   

117788,,886611

118899,,556666

119900,,006644  

−−   
1122,,884499   

−−   
66,,885522   
−−   
2244   

−−   

−−
−−

−−
−−
88,,221155
−−

−−

66,,889933   
−−   

66,,889933
−−

66,,889933
1122,,884499

66,,889933  
1122,,884499  

2211,,990000   
−−   
1133,,009977   
33,,001188   

777733   

2211,,990000
−−
1133,,118866
33,,001199

2211,,990000
66,,885522
2211,,331122
33,,004422

2211,,990000  
66,,885522  
2211,,440011  
33,,004433  

776655

777733

776655  

136

6 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
  
    
 
  
  
  
  
     
     
  
    
  
  
  
  
    
  
  
  
    
  
  
  
  
    
  
  
 
 
 
  
 
  
  
 
  
 
  
  
 
 
 
  
 
  
  
 
 
 
  
 
  
  
 
  
 
  
  
 
 
 
  
 
  
  
 
  
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Financial 
instruments 
classified as 
at fair value 
through profit 
or loss 

Financial 
instruments
designated
at fair value
through profit
or loss

Debt securities 
classified as at 
fair value 
through other 
comprehensive 
income

Carrying value
and fair value
Equity securities 
designated at
fair value
through other
comprehensive 
income

As at October 31, 2018  

Carrying 
value 

Fair 
value 

Financial 
instruments 
at amortized 
cost, net 

Financial 
instruments 
at amortized 
cost, net 

Total 
carrying 
value

Total 
fair
value

FFiinnaanncciiaall  aasssseettss  
  CCaasshh  aanndd  ddeeppoossiittss  wwiitthh  ffiinnaanncciiaall  
    iinnssttiittuuttiioonnss  

  SSeeccuurriittiieess  

  SSeeccuurriittiieess  ppuurrcchhaasseedd  uunnddeerr  rreevveerrssee    
   rreeppuurrcchhaassee  aaggrreeeemmeennttss  aanndd    
   sseeccuurriittiieess  bboorrrroowweedd  

  LLooaannss  aanndd  aacccceeppttaanncceess,,  nneett  ooff  aalllloowwaanncceess  

  OOtthheerr  
  Derivative financial instruments 
  Other assets 

FFiinnaanncciiaall  lliiaabbiilliittiieess  
  DDeeppoossiittss  

  OOtthheerr  
  Acceptances 
  Obligations related to securities sold short 
  Obligations related to securities sold under  
   repurchase agreements and 
   securities loaned 
  Derivative financial instruments 
  Liabilities related to transferred receivables 
  Other liabilities 

  SSuubboorrddiinnaatteedd  ddeebbtt  

(1) 

Includes embedded derivative financial instruments.  

Establishing Fair Value 

−   

−

51,927   

3,890

−

5,317

−

351

12,756   

8,298   

12,756   

12,756

12,756   

8,237   

69,783

69,722  

−   

6,108   

8,608   
−   

479

−

−
−

−

−

−
−

−

−

−
−

17,680   

17,680   

18,159

18,159   

139,974   

139,551    146,082

145,659  

−   
1,804   

−   
1,804   

8,608
1,804

8,608   
1,804   

−   

10,126

160,704  (1) 

160,938    170,830

171,064   

−   
17,780   

−   
6,036   
−   
21   

−   

−
−

−
−
7,714
−

−

6,801   
−   

6,801   
−   

6,801
17,780

6,801   
17,780   

19,998   
−   
12,386   
3,163   

747   

19,998   
−   
12,361   
3,152   

19,998
6,036
20,100
3,184

19,998   
6,036   
20,075   
3,173   

734   

747

734  

The fair value of a financial instrument is the price that would be received to sell a financial asset or paid to transfer a financial liability in an orderly transaction 
in the principal market at the measurement date under current market conditions (i.e., an exit price). 

Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets provide the best evidence of fair value. When there is no quoted price in an active market, the Bank applies other 
valuation techniques that maximize the use of relevant observable inputs and that minimize the use of unobservable inputs. Such valuation techniques include 
the following: using information available from recent market transactions, referring to the current fair value of a comparable financial instrument, applying 
discounted cash flow analysis, applying option pricing models, or relying on any other valuation technique that is commonly used by market participants and 
has proven to yield reliable estimates. Judgment is required when applying many of the valuation techniques. The Bank’s valuation was based on its assessment 
of the conditions prevailing as at October 31, 2019 and may change in the future. Furthermore, there may be valuation uncertainty resulting from the choice of 
valuation model used. 

National Bank of Canada 

137

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
    
  
  
  
  
    
    
    
  
 
  
    
  
  
  
  
  
     
  
 
  
    
  
  
  
  
  
     
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Note 3  ––  Fair Value of Financial Instruments (cont.)    

VVaalluuaattiioonn  GGoovveerrnnaannccee  
Fair value is established in accordance with a rigorous control framework. The Bank has policies and procedures that govern the process for determining fair 
value. These policies are documented and periodically reviewed by the Risk Management Group. All valuation models are validated, and controls have been 
implemented to ensure that they are applied.  

The fair value of existing or new products is determined and validated by functions independent of the risk-taking team. Complex fair value matters are reviewed 
by valuation committees made up of experts from various specialized functions. 

For financial instruments classified in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy, the Bank has documented the classification policies to determine the hierarchy, and 
there are controls in place to ensure that fair value is measured appropriately, reliably, and consistently. Valuation methods and the underlying assumptions are 
reviewed on a regular basis. 

VVaalluuaattiioonn  MMeetthhooddss  aanndd  AAssssuummppttiioonnss  
Financial Instruments Whose Fair Value Equals Carrying Value 
The carrying value of the following financial instruments is a reasonable approximation of fair value: 

cash and deposits with financial institutions; 
 
securities purchased under reverse repurchase agreements and securities borrowed; 
 
  obligations related to securities sold under repurchase agreements and securities loaned; 
 
 
 

customers’ liability under acceptances; 
acceptances; 
certain items of other assets and other liabilities. 

Securities and Obligations Related to Securities Sold Short 
These financial instruments, except for securities at amortized cost, are recognized at fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. Their fair value is based on 
quoted prices in active markets, i.e., bid prices for financial assets and offered prices for financial liabilities. If there are no quoted prices in an active market, 
fair  value  is  estimated  using  prices  for  securities  that,  in  substance,  are  identical.  If  such  prices  are  not  available,  fair  value  is  determined  using  valuation 
techniques that incorporate assumptions based primarily on observable market inputs such as current market prices, the contractual prices of the underlying 
instruments, the time value of money, credit risk, interest rate yield curves and currency rates. 

When one or more significant inputs are not observable in the markets, fair value is established primarily on the basis of internal estimates and data that consider 
the valuation policies in effect at the Bank, economic conditions, the specific characteristics of the financial asset or liability, and other relevant factors. 

Securities Issued or Guaranteed by Governments 
Securities issued or guaranteed by governments include government debt securities of the governments of Canada (federal, provincial and municipal) as well as 
debt securities of the U.S. government (U.S. Treasury), of other U.S. agencies and of other foreign governments. The fair value of these securities is based on 
unadjusted  quoted  prices  in  active  markets.  For  those  classified  in  Level  2,  quoted  prices  for  identical  or  similar  instruments  in  active  markets  are  used  to 
determine fair value. In the  absence of an observable market, valuation  techniques such  as  the discounted cash flow method  could be used, incorporating 
assumptions on benchmark yields (CDOR, LIBOR and other) and the risk spreads of similar securities. 

Equity Securities and Other Debt Securities 
The fair value of equity securities is determined primarily by using quoted prices in active markets. For equity securities and other debt securities classified in 
Level 2, a valuation technique based on quoted prices of identical and similar instruments in an active market is used to determine fair value. In the absence of 
observable inputs, valuation techniques such as the discounted cash flow method could be used, incorporating assumptions on benchmark yields (CDOR, LIBOR 
and other) and the risk spreads of similar securities. For those classified in Level 3, fair value can be determined based on the net asset value, which represents 
the estimated value of a security based on valuations received from investment or fund managers or the general partners of the limited partnerships. Fair value 
can also be determined using internal valuation techniques adjusted for risk factors related to the financial instruments and for economic conditions. 

138

138 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Derivative Financial Instruments 
Derivative financial instruments are recorded at fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. For exchange-traded derivative financial instruments, fair value is 
based on the quoted price in an active market, i.e., bid prices for financial assets or offered prices for financial liabilities.  

For over-the-counter (OTC) derivative financial instruments, fair value is determined using well established valuation techniques that incorporate assumptions 
based primarily on observable market inputs such as current market prices and the contractual prices of the underlying instruments, the time value of money, 
interest  rate  yield  curves,  credit  curves,  currency  rates  as  well  as  price  and  rate  volatility  factors.  In  establishing  the  fair  value  of  OTC  derivative  financial 
instruments, the Bank also incorporates the following factors: 

Credit Valuation Adjustment (CVA) 
The CVA is a valuation adjustment applied to derivative financial instruments to reflect the credit risk of the counterparty. For each counterparty, the CVA is based 
on the expected positive exposure and probabilities of default through time. The exposures are determined by incorporating relevant factors such as current and 
potential future market values, master netting arrangements, collateral agreements and expected recovery rates. The default probabilities are inferred using 
credit  default  swap  (CDS)  spreads.  When  unavailable,  relevant proxies  are  used.  While  the  general  methodology  currently  assumes  independence  between 
expected  positive  exposures  and  probabilities  of  default,  adjustments  are  applied  to  certain  types  of  transactions  where  there  is  a  direct  link  between  the 
exposure at default and the default probabilities. 

Debit Valuation Adjustment (DVA) 
The  DVA  reflects  the  Bank’s  own  credit  risk  in  the  valuation  of  derivative  financial  instruments.  The  DVA  is  based  on  the  expected  negative  exposure  and 
probabilities of default of the Bank over time. The exposures are determined by incorporating relevant factors such as current and potential future market values, 
master netting arrangements, collateral agreements and expected recovery rates. The market-implied spreads of the Bank are used in the calculation of the DVA.  

Funding Valuation Adjustment (FVA) 
The  FVA  is  a  valuation  adjustment  applied  to  derivative  financial  instruments  to  reflect  the  market-implied  cost  or  benefits  of  funding  collateral  for 
uncollateralized or partly collateralized transactions. The expected exposures are determined using methodologies consistent with the CVA and DVA framework. 
The funding level used to determine the FVA is based on the average funding level of relevant market participants. 

When  the  valuation  techniques  incorporate  one  or  more  significant  inputs  that  are  not  observable  in  the  markets,  the  fair  value  of  OTC  derivative  financial 
instruments is established primarily on the basis of internal estimates and data that consider the valuation policies in effect at the Bank, economic conditions, 
the specific characteristics of the financial asset or financial liability and other relevant factors. 

Loans 
The  fair  value  of  fixed-rate  mortgage  loans  is  determined  by  discounting  expected  future  contractual  cash  flows,  adjusted  for  several  factors,  including 
prepayment options, current market interest rates for similar loans, and other relevant variables where applicable. The fair value of variable-rate mortgage loans 
is deemed to equal carrying value. 

The fair value of other fixed-rate loans is determined by discounting expected future contractual cash flows using current market interest rates charged for similar 
new loans. The fair value of other variable-rate loans is deemed to equal carrying value. 

Deposits 
The fair value of fixed-term deposits is determined primarily  by discounting expected future contractual cash flows and considering several factors such  as 
redemption options and market interest rates currently offered for financial instruments with similar conditions. For certain term funding instruments, fair value 
is determined using market prices for similar instruments. The fair value of demand deposits and notice deposits is deemed to equal carrying value. 

The fair value of structured deposit notes is established using valuation models that maximize the use of observable inputs when available, such as benchmark 
indices, and also incorporates the DVA, which reflects the Bank’s own credit risk. In calculating DVA, the market implied spreads of the Bank are used to infer its 
probabilities of default. Lastly, when fair value is determined using option pricing models, the valuation techniques are similar to those described for derivative 
financial instruments. 

Liabilities Related to Transferred Receivables 
These liabilities arise from sale transactions to Canada Housing Trust (CHT) of securities backed by insured residential mortgages and other securities under the 
Canada Mortgage Bond (CMB) program. These transactions do not qualify for derecognition. They are recorded as guaranteed borrowings, which results in the 
recording of liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. The fair value of these liabilities is established using valuation techniques based on observable market 
inputs such as Canada Mortgage Bond prices.  

National Bank of Canada 

139

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Note 3  ––  Fair Value of Financial Instruments (cont.)    

Other Liabilities and Subordinated Debt 
The fair value of these financial liabilities is based on quoted market prices in an active market. If there is no active market, fair value is determined by discounting 
contractual cash flows using the current market interest rates offered for similar financial instruments that have the same term to maturity. 

HHiieerraarrcchhyy  ooff  FFaaiirr  VVaalluuee  MMeeaassuurreemmeennttss    

DDeetteerrmmiinniinngg  tthhee  LLeevveellss  ooff  tthhee  FFaaiirr  VVaalluuee  MMeeaassuurreemmeenntt  HHiieerraarrcchhyy  
IFRS establishes a fair value hierarchy that classifies the inputs used in financial instrument fair value measurement techniques according to three levels. This 
fair  value  hierarchy  requires  observable  market  inputs  to  be  used  whenever  such  inputs  exist.  According  to  the  hierarchy,  the  highest  level  of  inputs  are 
unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical instruments and the lowest level of inputs are unobservable inputs. If inputs from different levels of the 
hierarchy are used, the financial instrument is classified in the same level as the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The fair 
value hierarchy has the following levels: 

Level 1 
Inputs corresponding to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities and accessible to the Bank at the measurement date. 
These  instruments  consist  primarily  of  equity  securities,  derivative  financial  instruments  traded  in  active  markets,  and  certain  highly  liquid  debt  securities 
actively traded in over-the-counter markets.  

Level 2 
Valuation techniques based on inputs, other than the quoted prices included in Level 1 inputs, that are directly or indirectly observable in the market for the 
asset or liability. These inputs are quoted prices of similar instruments in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are 
not active; inputs other than quoted prices used in a valuation model that are observable for that instrument; and inputs that are derived principally from or 
corroborated  by  observable  market  inputs  by  correlation  or  other  means.  These  instruments  consist  primarily  of  certain  loans,  certain  deposits,  derivative 
financial instruments traded in over-the-counter markets, certain debt securities, certain equity securities whose value is not directly observable in an active 
market, liabilities related to transferred receivables and certain other liabilities. 

Level 3 
Valuation  techniques  based  on  one  or  more  significant  inputs  that  are  not  observable  in  the  market  for  the  asset  or  liability.  The  Bank  classifies  financial 
instruments in Level 3 when the valuation technique is based on at least one significant input that is not observable in the markets. The valuation technique may 
also be partly based on observable market inputs. 

Financial instruments whose fair values are classified in Level 3 consist of the following: 

 

 
 

financial instruments measured at fair value through profit or loss: investments in hedge funds for which there are certain restrictions on unit or security 
redemptions, equity securities and debt securities of private companies, as well as certain derivative financial instruments whose fair value is established 
using internal valuation models that are based on significant unobservable market inputs; 
securities at fair value through other comprehensive income: equity and debt securities of private companies; 
certain loans and certain deposits (structured deposit notes) whose fair value is established using internal valuation models that are based on significant 
unobservable market inputs. 

TTrraannssffeerrss  BBeettwweeeenn  tthhee  FFaaiirr  VVaalluuee  HHiieerraarrcchhyy  LLeevveellss  
Transfers of financial instruments between Levels 1 and 2 and transfers to (or from) Level 3 are deemed to have taken place at the beginning of the quarter in 
which the transfer occurred. Significant transfers can occur between the fair value hierarchy levels due to new information on inputs used to determine fair value 
and the observable nature of those inputs.  

During fiscal 2019, $50 million in securities classified as at fair value through profit or loss and $1 million in obligations related to securities sold short were 
transferred from Level 2 to Level 1 resulting from changing market conditions ($324 million in securities classified as at fair value through profit or loss and $33 
million in obligations related to securities sold short in fiscal 2018). In addition, during fiscal 2019, $20 million in securities classified as at fair value through 
profit or loss and $2 million in obligations related to securities sold short were transferred from Level 1 to Level 2 (for fiscal 2018, $37 million in securities 
classified as at fair value through profit or loss and $3 million in obligations related to securities sold short). 

During fiscal years 2019 and 2018, financial instruments were transferred to (or from) Level 3 due to changes in the availability of observable market inputs 
resulting from changing market conditions. 

140

140 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

FFiinnaanncciiaall  IInnssttrruummeennttss  RReeccoorrddeedd  aatt  FFaaiirr  VVaalluuee  oonn  tthhee  CCoonnssoolliiddaatteedd  BBaallaannccee  SShheeeett  

The following tables show financial instruments recorded at fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheet according to the fair value hierarchy. 

FFiinnaanncciiaall  aasssseettss  
  SSeeccuurriittiieess  
    AAtt  ffaaiirr  vvaalluuee  tthhrroouugghh  pprrooffiitt  oorr  lloossss  
      Securities issued or guaranteed by 
        Canadian government 
        Canadian provincial and municipal governments 
        U.S. Treasury, other U.S. agencies and other foreign governments 
      Other debt securities 
      Equity securities 

     AAtt  ffaaiirr  vvaalluuee  tthhrroouugghh  ootthheerr  ccoommpprreehheennssiivvee  iinnccoommee  
      Securities issued or guaranteed by 
        Canadian government 
        Canadian provincial and municipal governments 
        U.S. Treasury, other U.S. agencies and other foreign governments 
      Other debt securities 
      Equity securities 

  SSeeccuurriittiieess  ppuurrcchhaasseedd  uunnddeerr  rreevveerrssee  rreeppuurrcchhaassee  aaggrreeeemmeennttss  aanndd  
    sseeccuurriittiieess  bboorrrroowweedd  

  LLooaannss  

  OOtthheerr  
    Derivative financial instruments 

FFiinnaanncciiaall  lliiaabbiilliittiieess  
   DDeeppoossiittss  

   OOtthheerr  
    Obligations related to securities sold short 
    Derivative financial instruments 
    Liabilities related to transferred receivables 
    Other liabilities 

LLeevveell  11  

LLeevveell  22  

AAss  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199    
TToottaall  ffiinnaanncciiaall  
aasssseettss//lliiaabbiilliittiieess  
aatt  ffaaiirr  vvaalluuee   

LLeevveell  33  

22,,110022
−−
11,,777700
−−
3388,,883366
4422,,770088

119966
−−
33,,447711
−−
5533
33,,772200

−−

−−

88,,332211 
66,,776622 
9900 
22,,666666 
881188 
1188,,665577 

44,,223366 
11,,667744 
7755 
337744 
220077 
66,,556666 

8877 

66,,443388 

−−
−−
−−
2277
443311
445588

−−
−−
−−
−−
336622
336622

−−

336600

117799
4466,,660077

77,,992244 
3399,,667722 

2266
11,,220066

−−

1111,,338833 

88,,335522
115566
−−
−−
88,,550088

44,,449977 
66,,667744 
88,,221155 
2244 
3300,,779933 

−−

−−
2222
−−
−−
2222

1100,,442233    
66,,776622    
11,,886600    
22,,669933    
4400,,008855    
6611,,882233    

44,,443322    
11,,667744    
33,,554466    
337744    
662222    
1100,,664488    

8877    

66,,779988    

88,,112299    
8877,,448855    

1111,,338833    

1122,,884499    
66,,885522    
88,,221155    
2244    
3399,,332233    

National Bank of Canada 

141

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
         
   
 
         
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
         
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
         
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
   
 
   
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
  
  
  
  
  
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
  
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Note 3  ––  Fair Value of Financial Instruments (cont.)    

FFiinnaanncciiaall  aasssseettss  
  SSeeccuurriittiieess  
    AAtt  ffaaiirr  vvaalluuee  tthhrroouugghh  pprrooffiitt  oorr  lloossss  
      Securities issued or guaranteed by 
        Canadian government 
        Canadian provincial and municipal governments 
        U.S. Treasury, other U.S. agencies and other foreign governments 
      Other debt securities 
      Equity securities 

    AAtt  ffaaiirr  vvaalluuee  tthhrroouugghh  ootthheerr  ccoommpprreehheennssiivvee  iinnccoommee  
      Securities issued or guaranteed by 
        Canadian government 
        Canadian provincial and municipal governments 
        U.S. Treasury, other U.S. agencies and other foreign governments 
      Other debt securities 
      Equity securities 

  SSeeccuurriittiieess  ppuurrcchhaasseedd  uunnddeerr  rreevveerrssee  rreeppuurrcchhaassee  aaggrreeeemmeennttss  aanndd  
    sseeccuurriittiieess  bboorrrroowweedd  

  LLooaannss  

  OOtthheerr  
    Derivative financial instruments 

FFiinnaanncciiaall  lliiaabbiilliittiieess  
  DDeeppoossiittss  

   OOtthheerr    
    Obligations related to securities sold short 
    Derivative financial instruments 
    Liabilities related to transferred receivables 
    Other liabilities 

Level 1 

Level 2 

As at October 31, 2018   
Total financial 
assets/liabilities 
at fair value  

Level 3 

5,469
−
314
−
25,928
31,711

265
−
123
−
−
388

−

−

9,130 
10,628 
249 
3,391 
395 
23,793 

2,320 
2,184 
− 
425 
118 
5,047 

479 

5,722 

97
32,196

8,491 
43,532 

−

10,210 

12,524
211
−
−
12,735

5,256 
5,798 
7,714 
21 
28,999 

−
−
−
25
288
313

−
−
−
−
233
233

−

386

20
952

11

−
27
−
−
38

14,599   
10,628   
563   
3,416   
26,611   
55,817   

2,585   
2,184   
123   
425   
351   
5,668   

479   

6,108   

8,608   
76,680   

10,221   

17,780   
6,036   
7,714   
21   
41,772   

142

142 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
  
         
   
 
         
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
         
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
         
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
        
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
        
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

FFiinnaanncciiaall  IInnssttrruummeennttss  CCllaassssiiffiieedd  iinn  LLeevveell  33  
The Bank classifies financial instruments in Level 3 when the valuation technique is based on at least one significant input that is not observable in the markets. 
The valuation technique may also be based, in part, on observable market inputs. The following table shows the significant unobservable inputs used for the 
fair value measurements of financial instruments classified in Level 3 of the hierarchy. 

FFiinnaanncciiaall  aasssseettss  
  SSeeccuurriittiieess  
    Equity securities and other debt securities 

  LLooaannss  
    Loans at fair value through profit or loss 

  OOtthheerr  
    Derivative financial instruments  
        Interest rate contracts 
        Equity contracts 

FFiinnaanncciiaall  lliiaabbiilliittiieess  
  OOtthheerr  
    Derivative financial instruments 
        Equity contracts 

FFaaiirr  
vvaalluuee  

882200  

336600  

66  
2200  

11,,220066  

2222  

2222  

Primary 
valuation techniques 

Significant 
 unobservable inputs 

              LLooww  

AAss  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199  

RRaannggee  ooff  iinnppuutt  vvaalluueess  
              HHiigghh  

Net asset value 
Market comparable 
Discounted cash flows 
Discounted cash flows 

Discounted cash flows 
Discounted cash flows 

Discounted cash flows 
Option pricing model 

Net asset value 
EV/EBITDA(1) multiple  
Credit spread  
Discount Rate  

110000   %%  
1133   xx  

446600   BBppss(2)  
44..5500   %%  

110000   %%  
1166   xx  

770055   BBppss(2)  

1144..3388   %%  

Discount rate  
Liquidity premium  

55..2266   %%  
33..5566   %%  

88..8899   %%  
77..3344   %%  

Discount rate 
Long-term volatility 
Market correlation 

22..2200   %%  
44   %%  
2211   %%  

22..2200   %%  
3355   %%  
3311   %%  

Option pricing model 

Long-term volatility 
Market correlation 

55   %%  
((2299))   %%  

4499   %%  
8899   %%  

Fair 
value 

Primary 
valuation techniques 

Significant 
unobservable inputs 

       Low 

As at October 31, 2018 

Range of input values 
       High 

FFiinnaanncciiaall  aasssseettss  
  SSeeccuurriittiieess  
    Equity securities and other debt securities 

LLooaannss  
    Loans at fair value through profit or loss 

  OOtthheerr  
    Derivative financial instruments  
        Equity contracts 

FFiinnaanncciiaall  lliiaabbiilliittiieess  
  DDeeppoossiittss  
    Structured deposit notes 

  OOtthheerr  
    Derivative financial instruments 
        Interest rate contracts 
        Equity contracts 

546 

386 

20 
952 

11 

2 
25 

38 

Net asset value 
Market comparable 
Discounted cash flows 

Discounted cash flows 
Discounted cash flows 

Net asset value 
EV/EBITDA(1) multiple 
Credit spread  

100  % 
11  x 

100  % 
16  x 

460  Bps(2) 

690  Bps(2) 

Discount rate  
Liquidity premium  

5.81  % 
2.68  % 

8.92  % 
5.80  % 

Option pricing model 

Long-term volatility 

7  % 

21  % 

Option pricing model 

Long-term volatility 
Market correlation 

3  % 
(36)  % 

52  % 
82  % 

Discounted cash flows  
Option pricing model 

Discount rate 
Long-term volatility 
Market correlation 

2.20  % 
7  % 
(34)  % 

2.20  % 
70  % 
83  % 

(1) 
(2) 

EV/EBITDA means Enterprise Value/Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization. 
Bps or basis point is a unit of measure equal to 0.01%. 

National Bank of Canada 

143

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
  
         
   
   
   
 
         
 
    
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
         
 
         
 
         
 
 
 
  
  
 
         
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
  
  
 
 
         
 
         
 
  
  
 
  
  
 
 
  
 
 
   
  
  
 
         
 
       
 
  
  
         
   
   
   
   
 
 
 
         
   
   
   
   
 
 
 
         
   
   
   
 
         
 
    
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
         
 
         
 
 
 
 
 
 
         
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
         
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
         
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
         
 
       
 
 
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Note 3  ––  Fair Value of Financial Instruments (cont.)    

SSiiggnniiffiiccaanntt  UUnnoobbsseerrvvaabbllee  IInnppuuttss  UUsseedd  ffoorr  FFaaiirr  VVaalluuee  MMeeaassuurreemmeennttss  ooff  FFiinnaanncciiaall  IInnssttrruummeennttss  CCllaassssiiffiieedd  iinn  LLeevveell  33  
Net Asset Value 
Net asset value is the estimated value of a security based on valuations received from the investment or fund managers, the administrators of the conduits or 
the general partners of the limited partnerships. The net asset value of a fund is the total fair value of assets less liabilities. 

EV/EBITDA (Enterprise Value/Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization) Multiple and Price Equivalent 
Private equity valuation inputs include earnings multiples, which are determined based on comparable companies, and a higher multiple will translate into a 
higher fair value. Price equivalent is a percentage of the market price based on the liquidity of the security. 

Discount Rate 
When discounted cash flow methods are used, the discount rate is the input used to bring future cash flows to their present value. A higher discount rate will 
translate into a lower fair value. 

Long-Term Volatility 
Volatility is a measure of the expected future variability of market prices. Volatility is generally observable in the market through options prices. However, the 
long-term volatility of options  with  a longer maturity might  not be observable. An increase (decrease) in long-term volatility  is generally  associated with an 
increase (decrease) in long-term correlation. Higher long-term volatility may increase or decrease an instrument’s fair value depending on its terms. 

Market Correlation 
Correlation is a measure of the inter-relationship between two different variables. A positive correlation means that the variables tend to move in the same 
direction; a negative correlation means that the variables tend to move in opposite directions. Correlation is used to measure financial instruments whose future 
returns depend on several variables. Changes in correlation will either increase or decrease a financial instrument’s fair value depending on the terms of its 
contractual payout. 

SSeennssiittiivviittyy  AAnnaallyyssiiss  ooff  FFiinnaanncciiaall  IInnssttrruummeennttss  CCllaassssiiffiieedd  iinn  LLeevveell  33  
The Bank performs sensitivity analyses for the fair value measurements of financial instruments classified in Level 3, substituting unobservable inputs with one 
or more reasonably possible alternative assumptions.  

For  equity  securities  and  other  debt  securities,  the  Bank  varies  significant  unobservable  inputs  such  as  net  asset  values,  EV/EBITDA  multiples,  or  price 
equivalents  and  establishes  a  reasonable  fair  value  range  that  could  result  in  a  $121 million  increase  or  decrease  in  the  fair  value  recorded  as  at 
October 31, 2019 (a $70 million increase or decrease as at October 31, 2018).  

For the loans, the Bank varies unobservable inputs such as a liquidity premium and establishes a reasonable fair value range that could result in a $54 million 
increase or decrease in the fair value recorded as at October 31, 2019 ($43 million increase or decrease as at October 31, 2018). 

For derivative financial instruments and embedded derivatives related to structured deposit notes, the Bank varies long-term volatility and market correlation 
inputs and establishes a reasonable fair value range. As at October 31, 2019, for derivative financial instruments, the net fair value could result in a $1 million 
increase or decrease ($5 million increase or decrease as at October 31, 2018), whereas for structured deposit notes, the fair value could have resulted in a 
$1 million increase or decrease as at October 31, 2018. 

For all Level 3 financial instruments, the reasonable fair value ranges could result in an 8% increase or decrease in net income as at October 31, 2019 (a 5 % 
increase or decrease in net income as at October 31, 2018). 

144

144 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

CChhaannggee  iinn  tthhee  FFaaiirr  VVaalluuee  ooff  FFiinnaanncciiaall  IInnssttrruummeennttss  CCllaassssiiffiieedd  iinn  LLeevveell  33  
The Bank may hedge the fair value of financial instruments classified in the various levels through offsetting hedge positions. Gains and losses for financial 
instruments classified in Level 3 presented in the following tables do not reflect the inverse gains and losses on financial instruments used for economic hedging 
purposes that may have been classified in Level 1 or 2 by the Bank. In addition, the Bank may hedge the fair value of financial instruments classified in Level 3 
using other financial instruments classified in Level 3. The effect of these hedges is not included in the net amount presented in the following tables. The gains 
and losses presented hereafter may comprise changes in fair value based on observable and unobservable inputs. 

Fair value as at October 31, 2018  
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in Net income (2) 
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in  

 Other comprehensive income 

Purchases 
Sales 
Issuances 
Settlements and other 
Financial instruments transferred into Level 3 
Financial instruments transferred out of Level 3 
FFaaiirr  vvaalluuee  aass  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199    
Change in unrealized gains and losses included in Net income with respect 
  to financial assets and financial liabilities held as at October 31, 2019(3) 

Fair value as at November 1, 2017  
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in Net income (4) 
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in  

 Other comprehensive income 

Purchases 
Sales 
Issuances 
Settlements and other 
Financial instruments transferred into Level 3 
Financial instruments transferred out of Level 3 
FFaaiirr  vvaalluuee  aass  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001188    
Change in unrealized gains and losses included in Net income with respect 
  to financial assets and financial liabilities held as at October 31, 2018(5) 

SSeeccuurriittiieess  
aatt  ffaaiirr  vvaalluuee  
tthhrroouugghh  pprrooffiitt  
oorr  lloossss  

SSeeccuurriittiieess  
aatt  ffaaiirr  vvaalluuee  
tthhrroouugghh  ootthheerr  
ccoommpprreehheennssiivvee  
iinnccoommee  

331133
((6699))

−−
225533
((3399))
−−
−−
−−
−−
445588

((7766))

223333
−−

((44))
113333
−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
336622

−−

Securities 
at fair value 
through profit 
or loss 

Securities 
at fair value 
through other 
comprehensive 
income 

184
29

−
117
(21)
−
−
4
−
313

7

158
−

−
75
−
−
−
−
−
233

−

YYeeaarr  eennddeedd  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199    

DDeerriivvaattiivvee  
ffiinnaanncciiaall  
iinnssttrruummeennttss(1)  

DDeeppoossiittss  

((77))
1166

−−
−−
−−
−−
33
((1100))
22
44

1166

((1111))    
−−  

−−  
−−  
−−  
−−  
−−  
−−  
1111  
−−  

−−     

Year ended October 31, 2018  

Derivative 
financial 
instruments(1) 

Deposits 

20
−

−
−
−
−
(8)
(1)
(18)
(7)

−

(1)  
− 

− 
− 
− 
(8) 
− 
(3) 
1 
(11) 

−   

LLooaannss  

338866 
1122 

−− 
−− 
−− 
66 
((4444)) 
−− 
−− 
336600 

1122 

Loans 

428 
16 

− 
− 
− 
8 
(66) 
− 
− 
386 

16 

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 
(4) 
(5) 

The derivative financial instruments include assets and liabilities presented on a net basis. 
Total gains (losses) included in Non-interest income was a loss of $41 million. 
Total unrealized gains (losses) included in Non-interest income was an unrealized loss of $48 million. 
Total gains (losses) included in Non-interest income was a gain of $45 million. 
Total unrealized gains (losses) included in Non-interest income was an unrealized gain of $23 million. 

National Bank of Canada 

145

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
    
     
     
  
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Note 3  ––  Fair Value of Financial Instruments (cont.)    

FFiinnaanncciiaall  IInnssttrruummeennttss  NNoott  RReeccoorrddeedd  aatt  FFaaiirr  VVaalluuee  oonn  tthhee  CCoonnssoolliiddaatteedd  BBaallaannccee  SShheeeett  

The following tables show the financial instruments that have not been recorded at fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheet according to the fair value 
hierarchy, except for those whose carrying value is a reasonable approximation of fair value. 

FFiinnaanncciiaall  aasssseettss  
   SSeeccuurriittiieess  aatt  aammoorrttiizzeedd  ccoosstt  
      Securities issued or guaranteed by 
        Canadian government 
        Canadian provincial and municipal governments 
        U.S. Treasury, other U.S. agencies and other foreign governments 
      Other debt securities 

  LLooaannss,,  nneett  ooff  aalllloowwaanncceess  

FFiinnaanncciiaall  lliiaabbiilliittiieess  
   DDeeppoossiittss  

   OOtthheerr  
    Liabilities related to transferred receivables 
    Other liabilities 

   SSuubboorrddiinnaatteedd  ddeebbtt  

FFiinnaanncciiaall  aasssseettss  
   SSeeccuurriittiieess  aatt  aammoorrttiizzeedd  ccoosstt  
      Securities issued or guaranteed by 
         Canadian government 
         Canadian provincial and municipal governments 
         U.S. Treasury, other U.S. agencies and other foreign governments 
      Other debt securities 

  LLooaannss,,  nneett  ooff  aalllloowwaanncceess  

FFiinnaanncciiaall  lliiaabbiilliittiieess  
   DDeeppoossiittss  

   OOtthheerr  
    Liabilities related to transferred receivables 
    Other liabilities 

   SSuubboorrddiinnaatteedd  ddeebbtt  

LLeevveell  11  

LLeevveell  22  

LLeevveell  33  

TToottaall    

AAss  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199    

−−
−−
−−
−−
−−

−−

−−

−−
−−

−−
−−

55,,229922 
11,,880055 
113388 
22,,558899 
99,,882244 

5599,,885577 

117788,,886611 

1133,,118866 
991122 
776655 
119933,,772244 

−−
−−
−−
−−
−−

55,,229922     
11,,880055     
113388     
22,,558899     
99,,882244     

8800,,330011

114400,,115588    

−−

−−
−−

−−
−−

117788,,886611     

1133,,118866     
991122     

776655     
119933,,772244     

Level 1 

Level 2 

Level 3 

Total   

As at October 31, 2018   

− 
− 
− 
− 
− 

−

−

−
−

−
−

4,914 
1,667 
21 
1,635 
8,237 

−
−
−
−
−

4,914    
1,667    
21    
1,635    
8,237    

56,938 

75,812

132,750   

160,938 

12,361 
899 

734 
174,932 

−

−
−

−
−

160,938    

12,361    
899    

734    
174,932    

146

146 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
    
  
         
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
         
   
   
   
   
 
         
   
   
   
   
 
 
   
 
         
 
 
    
 
    
 
    
 
 
 
 
              
 
 
  
 
   
 
   
 
         
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
  
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

NNoottee  44  ––  FFiinnaanncciiaall  IInnssttrruummeennttss  DDeessiiggnnaatteedd  aatt  FFaaiirr  VVaalluuee  TThhrroouugghh  PPrrooffiitt  oorr  LLoossss    

The Bank chose to designate certain financial instruments at fair value through profit or loss according to the criteria presented in Note 1 to these consolidated 
financial statements. Consistent with its risk management strategy and in accordance with the fair value option, which permits the designation if it eliminates 
or significantly reduces a measurement or recognition inconsistency that would otherwise arise from measuring financial assets and liabilities or recognizing 
the gains and losses thereon on different bases, the Bank designated at fair value through profit or loss certain securities, certain securities purchased under 
reverse repurchase agreements, and certain liabilities related to transferred receivables. The fair value of liabilities related to transferred receivables does not 
include credit risk, as the holders of these liabilities are not exposed to the Bank’s credit risk. The Bank also designated certain deposits that include embedded 
derivative financial instruments at fair value through profit or loss.  

To determine a change in fair value arising from a change in the credit risk of deposits designated at fair value through profit or loss, the Bank calculates, at the 
beginning of the period, the present value of the instrument’s contractual cash flows using the following rates: first, using an observed discount rate for similar 
securities that reflects the Bank’s credit spread and, then, using a rate that excludes the Bank’s credit spread. The difference obtained between the two values 
is then compared to the difference obtained using the same rates at the end of the period. 

Information about the financial assets and financial liabilities designated at fair value through profit or loss is provided in the following tables.  

FFiinnaanncciiaall  aasssseettss  ddeessiiggnnaatteedd  aatt  ffaaiirr  vvaalluuee  tthhrroouugghh  pprrooffiitt  oorr  lloossss    
  Securities  
  Securities purchased under reverse repurchase agreements  

FFiinnaanncciiaall  lliiaabbiilliittiieess  ddeessiiggnnaatteedd  aatt  ffaaiirr  vvaalluuee  tthhrroouugghh  pprrooffiitt  oorr  lloossss    
  Deposits(1)(2) 

Liabilities related to transferred receivables  

FFiinnaanncciiaall  aasssseettss  ddeessiiggnnaatteedd  aatt  ffaaiirr  vvaalluuee  tthhrroouugghh  pprrooffiitt  oorr  lloossss    
  Securities  
  Securities purchased under reverse repurchase agreements 

FFiinnaanncciiaall  lliiaabbiilliittiieess  ddeessiiggnnaatteedd  aatt  ffaaiirr  vvaalluuee  tthhrroouugghh  pprrooffiitt  oorr  lloossss    
  Deposits(1)(2) 
  Liabilities related to transferred receivables  

CCaarrrryyiinngg  
vvaalluuee  aass  aatt  
OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199  

UUnnrreeaalliizzeedd  
ggaaiinnss  ((lloosssseess))  
ffoorr  tthhee  yyeeaarr  eennddeedd  
OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199  

UUnnrreeaalliizzeedd  
ggaaiinnss  ((lloosssseess))  
ssiinnccee  tthhee  iinniittiiaall  
rreeccooggnniittiioonn  ooff  
tthhee  iinnssttrruummeenntt  

33,,226677
8877
33,,335544

1111,,220033
88,,221155
1199,,441188

8866
−−
8866

((778899))
((116633))
((995522))

2266  
−−  
2266  

((220044))  
((7755))  
((227799))  

Carrying 
value as at 
October 31, 2018 

Unrealized 
gains (losses) 
for the year ended 
October 31, 2018 

Unrealized 
gains (losses) 
since the initial 
recognition of 
the instrument 

3,890
479
4,369

10,126
7,714
17,840

(55)
−
(55)

518
172
690

(92) 
− 
(92) 

551 
87 
638 

(1) 

(2) 

For the year ended October 31, 2019, the change in the fair value of deposits designated at fair value through profit or loss attributable to credit risk, and recorded in Other comprehensive 
income, resulted in a gain of $7 million ($28 million gain for the year ended October 31, 2018). 
The amount at maturity that the Bank will be contractually required to pay to the holders of these deposits varies and will differ from the reporting date fair value. 

National Bank of Canada 

147

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
 
 
 
  
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
   
 
   
 
   
   
   
 
 
 
  
  
     
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

NNoottee  55  ––  OOffffsseettttiinngg  FFiinnaanncciiaall  AAsssseettss  aanndd  FFiinnaanncciiaall  LLiiaabbiilliittiieess  

Financial assets and liabilities are offset and the net amount is presented on the Consolidated Balance Sheet when the Bank has a legally enforceable right to 
set off the recognized amounts and intends to settle on a net basis or to realize the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.  

Generally,  over-the-counter  financial  derivatives  subject  to  master  netting  arrangements  of  the  International  Swaps  &  Derivatives  Association,  Inc.  or  other 
similar agreements do not meet the netting criteria on the Consolidated Balance Sheet because the right of set-off is legally enforceable only in the event of 
default, insolvency or bankruptcy. 

Generally, securities purchased under reverse repurchase agreements and securities borrowed as well as obligations related to securities sold under repurchase 
agreements and securities loaned, subject to master agreements, do not meet the netting criteria since they confer a right of set-off that is enforceable only in 
the event of default, insolvency or bankruptcy.  

However, the above-mentioned transactions may be subject to contractual netting agreements concluded with clearing houses. If the netting criteria are met, 
these transactions are netted on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. In addition, as part of these transactions, the Bank may give or receive cash or other financial 
instruments used as collateral. 

The following tables present information on financial assets and financial liabilities that are netted on the Consolidated Balance Sheet because they meet the 
netting criteria and on those that are not netted and are subject to an enforceable master netting arrangement or similar agreement. 

FFiinnaanncciiaall  aasssseettss  
  Securities purchased under reverse repurchase 
    agreements and securities borrowed 
  Derivative financial instruments 

FFiinnaanncciiaall  lliiaabbiilliittiieess  
  Obligations related to securities sold under 
    repurchase agreements and securities loaned 
  Derivative financial instruments 

FFiinnaanncciiaall  aasssseettss  
  Securities purchased under reverse repurchase 
    agreements and securities borrowed 
  Derivative financial instruments 

FFiinnaanncciiaall  lliiaabbiilliittiieess  
  Obligations related to securities sold under 
    repurchase agreements and securities loaned 
  Derivative financial instruments 

AAss  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199   

AAmmoouunnttss  
sseett  ooffff  oonn  tthhee  
CCoonnssoolliiddaatteedd  
BBaallaannccee  SShheeeett  

NNeett  aammoouunnttss  
rreeppoorrtteedd  
oonn  tthhee  
CCoonnssoolliiddaatteedd  
BBaallaannccee  SShheeeett  

AAssssoocciiaatteedd  aammoouunnttss  
nnoott  sseett  ooffff  oonn  tthhee  
CCoonnssoolliiddaatteedd  BBaallaannccee  SShheeeett  
FFiinnaanncciiaall  aasssseettss  
rreecceeiivveedd//pplleeddggeedd  
aass  ccoollllaatteerraall(2)  

FFiinnaanncciiaall  
iinnssttrruummeennttss(1)  

GGrroossss  aammoouunnttss  
rreeccooggnniizzeedd  

2200,,888899
1100,,994477
3311,,883366

2255,,006666
99,,667700
3344,,773366

33,,116666
22,,881188
55,,998844

33,,116666
22,,881188
55,,998844

1177,,772233
88,,112299
2255,,885522

2211,,990000
66,,885522
2288,,775522

44,,449933   
33,,441155   
77,,990088   

44,,449933   
33,,441155   
77,,990088   

1133,,119922
22,,552299
1155,,772211

1177,,332277
22,,005511
1199,,337788

NNeett  
  aammoouunnttss    

3388    
22,,118855    
22,,222233    

8800    
11,,338866    
11,,446666    

As at October 31, 2018  

Amounts 
set off on the 
Consolidated 
Balance Sheet 

Net amounts 
reported 
on the 
Consolidated 
Balance Sheet 

Associated amounts 
not set off on the 
Consolidated Balance Sheet 
Financial assets 
received/pledged 
as collateral(2) 

Financial 
instruments(1) 

Gross amounts 
recognized 

18,446
10,923
29,369

20,285
8,351
28,636

287
2,315
2,602

287
2,315
2,602

18,159
8,608
26,767

19,998
6,036
26,034

3,156   
3,151   
6,307   

3,156   
3,151   
6,307   

14,943
3,748
18,691

16,752
1,381
18,133

Net 
amounts  

60   
1,709   
1,769   

90   
1,504   
1,594   

148 

(1) 
(2) 

Carrying amount of financial instruments that are subject to an enforceable master netting agreement or similar agreement but that do not satisfy offsetting criteria. 
Excludes non-financial instruments collateral. 

148

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
    
     
    
    
  
       
 
  
  
  
       
 
    
     
     
     
     
     
 
 
   
  
 
 
 
       
 
 
   
  
 
   
 
 
 
   
  
 
 
 
       
 
       
    
    
    
    
    
    
   
       
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
   
   
   
   
 
       
 
 
 
 
       
 
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
       
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
       
 
 
  
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

NNoottee  66  ––  SSeeccuurriittiieess  

RReessiidduuaall  CCoonnttrraaccttuuaall  MMaattuurriittiieess  ooff  SSeeccuurriittiieess  

As at October 31 

SSeeccuurriittiieess  aatt  ffaaiirr  vvaalluuee  tthhrroouugghh  pprrooffiitt  oorr  lloossss  
Securities issued or guaranteed by 
   Canadian government 
   Canadian provincial and municipal governments 
  U.S. Treasury, other U.S. agencies  
    and other foreign governments 
Other debt securities 
Equity securities 

SSeeccuurriittiieess  aatt  ffaaiirr  vvaalluuee  tthhrroouugghh  ootthheerr  ccoommpprreehheennssiivvee  iinnccoommee    
Securities issued or guaranteed by 
   Canadian government 
   Canadian provincial and municipal governments 
  U.S. Treasury, other U.S. agencies  
    and other foreign governments 
Other debt securities 
Equity securities 

SSeeccuurriittiieess  aatt  aammoorrttiizzeedd  ccoosstt(1)    
Securities issued or guaranteed by 
   Canadian government 
   Canadian provincial and municipal governments 
  U.S. Treasury, other U.S. agencies  
    and other foreign governments 
Other debt securities 

  11  yyeeaarr  
oorr  lleessss  

OOvveerr  11  
yyeeaarr  ttoo  
  55  yyeeaarrss  

OOvveerr  
  55  yyeeaarrss  

NNoo  
ssppeecciiffiieedd  
  mmaattuurriittyy    

22001199   

2018  

TToottaall   

Total  

660000
660077

11,,667799
331144
−−
33,,220000

4455
3366

−−
11
−−
8822

550066
112222

111188
6699
881155

77,,667722
22,,558855

8822
11,,332277
−−
1111,,666666

33,,662277
990099

33,,334411
8855
−−
77,,996622

44,,774422
11,,442288

2200
11,,336677
77,,555577

22,,115511
33,,557700

9999
11,,005522
−−
66,,887722

776600
772299

220055
228888
−−
11,,998822

−−
223388

11
11,,114444
11,,338833

−− 
−− 

−− 
−− 
4400,,008855 
4400,,008855 

−− 
−− 

−− 
−− 
662222 
662222 

−− 
−− 

−− 
−− 
−− 

1100,,442233
66,,776622

11,,886600
22,,669933
4400,,008855
6611,,882233

44,,443322
11,,667744

33,,554466
337744
662222
1100,,664488

55,,224488
11,,778888

113399
22,,558800
99,,775555

14,599 
10,628 

563 
3,416 
26,611 
55,817 

2,585 
2,184 

123 
425 
351 
5,668 

4,952 
1,680 

21 
1,645 
8,298 

(1) 

As at October 31, 2019, securities at amortized cost are presented net of $1 million in allowances for credit losses ($1 million as at October 31, 2018). 

CCrreeddiitt  QQuuaalliittyy  

As at October 31, 2019 and 2018, securities at fair value through other comprehensive income and securities at amortized cost are classified in Stage 1, with 
their  credit  quality  falling  mainly  in  the  “Excellent”  category  according  to  the  Bank’s  internal  risk-rating  categories.  For  additional  information  on  the 
reconciliation of allowances for credit losses, see Note 7 to these consolidated financial statements.  

National Bank of Canada 

149

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Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Note 6 – Securities (cont.) 

GGrroossss  GGaaiinnss  ((LLoosssseess))  oonn  SSeeccuurriittiieess  aatt  FFaaiirr  VVaalluuee  TThhrroouugghh  OOtthheerr  CCoommpprreehheennssiivvee  IInnccoommee    

Securities issued or guaranteed by 
  Canadian government 
  Canadian provincial and municipal governments 
  U.S. Treasury, other U.S. agencies and other foreign governments 
Other debt securities 
Equity securities 

Securities issued or guaranteed by 
  Canadian government 
  Canadian provincial and municipal governments 
  U.S. Treasury, other U.S. agencies and other foreign governments 
Other debt securities 
Equity securities 

AAmmoorrttiizzeedd  
ccoosstt  

GGrroossss  uunnrreeaalliizzeedd  
ggaaiinnss  

GGrroossss  uunnrreeaalliizzeedd  
lloosssseess  

AAss  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199    
CCaarrrryyiinngg  
vvaalluuee(1)  

44,,441111
11,,661144
33,,552211
336644
664499
1100,,555599

2266 
6600 
2255 
1111 
22 
112244 

((55))
−−
−−
((11))
((2299))
((3355))

44,,443322  
11,,667744  
33,,554466  
337744  
662222  
1100,,664488  

Amortized 
cost 

Gross unrealized 
gains 

Gross unrealized 
losses 

As at October 31, 2018  
Carrying 
value(1) 

2,624
2,196
123
434
356
5,733

1 
22 
− 
1 
− 
24 

(40)
(34)
−
(10)
(5)
(89)

2,585 
2,184 
123 
425 
351 
5,668 

(1) 

The allowances for credit losses on securities at fair value through other comprehensive income, representing a negligible amount as at October 31, 2019 and 2018, are reported in Other 
comprehensive income. For additional information, see Note 7 to these consolidated financial statements. 

EEqquuiittyy  SSeeccuurriittiieess  DDeessiiggnnaatteedd  aatt  FFaaiirr  VVaalluuee  TThhrroouugghh  OOtthheerr  CCoommpprreehheennssiivvee  IInnccoommee  
The Bank designated certain equity securities, the main business objective of which is to generate dividend income, at fair value through other comprehensive 
income without subsequent reclassification of gains and losses to net income. 

During the year ended October 31, 2019, an amount of $25 million in dividend income was recognized for these investments ($17 million for the year ended 
October 31,  2018),  including  $1 million  for  investments  that  were  sold  during  the  year  ended  October 31, 2019  (negligible  amounts  for  the  year  ended 
October 31, 2018). 

Fair value at beginning 
  Change in fair value 
  Designated at fair value through other  
    comprehensive income(1)(2) 
  Sales(3) 
FFaaiirr  vvaalluuee  aatt  eenndd  

YYeeaarr  eennddeedd  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199  

Year ended October 31, 2018 

EEqquuiittyy  sseeccuurriittiieess  
ooff  pprriivvaattee  ccoommppaanniieess  

EEqquuiittyy  sseeccuurriittiieess  
ooff  ppuubblliicc  ccoommppaanniieess  

223333
((  44))

113333
−−
336622

111188
((2233))

225533
((8888))
226600

TToottaall  

335511     
((2277))    

338866     
((8888))  
662222  

Equity securities 
of private companies 

Equity securities 
of public companies 

158   
−   

75   
− 
233 

122
(2)

34
(36)
118

Total 

280   
(2)  

109   
(36) 
351 

(1)  On June 30, 2019, the Bank concluded that it had lost significant influence over NSIA Participations (NSIA) and therefore ceased using the equity method to account for this investment. The 
Bank designated its investment in NSIA as a financial asset measured at fair value through other comprehensive income. For additional information, see Note 9 to these consolidated financial 
statements.  

(2)  On May 9, 2019, after disposing of a portion of its investment in Fiera Capital Corporation, the Bank designated the retained interest as a financial asset measured at fair value through other 

comprehensive income. For additional information, see Note 9 to these consolidated financial statements. 
The Bank disposed of public company equity securities for economic reasons. 

(3) 

GGaaiinnss  ((LLoosssseess))  oonn  DDiissppoossaallss  ooff  SSeeccuurriittiieess  aatt  AAmmoorrttiizzeedd  CCoosstt  

During the years ended October 31, 2019 and 2018, the Bank sold certain debt securities measured at amortized cost. The carrying value of these securities 
upon disposal was $461 million for the year ended October 31, 2019 ($134 million for the year ended October 31, 2018), and the Bank recognized gains of 
$9 million for the year ended October 31, 2019 (negligible amounts for the year ended October 31, 2018) in Non-interest income – Gains (losses) on non-trading 
securities, net in the Consolidated Statement of Income. 

150

150 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
   
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
     
  
     
   
  
  
   
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

NNoottee  77  ––  LLooaannss  aanndd  AAlllloowwaanncceess  ffoorr  CCrreeddiitt  LLoosssseess  

Loans are recognized either at fair value through profit or loss or at amortized cost using the financial asset classification criteria defined in IFRS 9. 

DDeetteerrmmiinniinngg  aanndd  MMeeaassuurriinngg  EExxppeecctteedd  CCrreeddiitt  LLoosssseess  ((EECCLL))  

DDeetteerrmmiinniinngg  EExxppeecctteedd  CCrreeddiitt  LLoosssseess  
Expected credit losses are determined using a three-stage impairment approach that is based on the change in the credit quality of financial assets since initial 
recognition. 

Stage 1 
Financial assets that have experienced no significant increase in credit risk between initial recognition and the reporting date and for which 12-month expected 
credit losses are recorded at the reporting date are classified in Stage 1. 

Stage 2 
Financial assets that have experienced a significant increase in credit risk between initial recognition and the reporting date, and for which lifetime expected 
credit losses are recorded at the reporting date, are classified in Stage 2. 

Stage 3 
Financial assets for which there is objective evidence of impairment, for which one or more events have had a detrimental impact on the estimated future cash 
flows of these financial assets at the reporting date, and for which lifetime expected credit losses are recorded, are classified in Stage 3. 

POCI 
Financial assets that are credit-impaired when purchased or originated (POCI) are classified in the POCI category. 

IImmppaaiirrmmeenntt  GGoovveerrnnaannccee  
A rigorous control framework is applied to the determination of expected credit losses. The Bank has policies and procedures that govern impairments arising 
from credit risk. These policies are documented and periodically reviewed by the Risk Management group. All models used to calculate expected credit losses 
are validated, and controls are in place to ensure they are applied.  

These models are validated by groups that are independent of the team that prepares the calculations. Complex questions on measurement methodologies and 
assumptions are reviewed by a group of experts from various functions. Furthermore, the inputs and assumptions used to determine expected credit losses are 
reviewed on a regular basis. 

MMeeaassuurreemmeenntt  ooff  EExxppeecctteedd  CCrreeddiitt  LLoosssseess  ((EECCLL))  
Expected credit losses are estimated using three main variables: (1) probability of default (PD), (2) loss given default (LGD) and (3) exposure at default (EAD). For 
accounting purposes, 12-month PD and lifetime PD are the probabilities of a default occurring over the next 12 months or over the life of a financial instrument, 
respectively, based on conditions existing at the balance sheet date and on future economic conditions that have, or will have, an impact on credit risk. LGD 
reflects the losses expected should default occur and considers such factors as the mitigating effects of collateral, the realizable value thereof, and the time 
value of money. EAD is the expected balance owing at default and considers such factors as repayments of principal and interest between the balance sheet date 
and the time of default as well as any amounts expected to be drawn on a committed facility. Twelve-month expected credit losses are estimated by multiplying 
12-month PD by LGD and by EAD. Lifetime expected credit losses are estimated using the lifetime PD. 

For most financial instruments, expected credit losses are measured on an individual basis. Financial instruments that have credit losses measured on a collective 
basis are grouped according to similar credit risk characteristics such as type of instrument, geographic location, comparable risk level, and business sector or 
industry. 

IInnppuuttss,,  AAssssuummppttiioonnss  aanndd  EEssttiimmaattiioonn  TTeecchhnniiqquueess    
The Bank’s approach to calculating expected credit losses consists essentially of leveraging existing regulatory models and then adjusting their parameters for 
IFRS 9 purposes. These models have the advantage of having been thoroughly tested and validated. In addition, using the same base models, regardless of the 
purpose,  provides  consistency  across  risk  assessments.  These  models  use  inputs,  assumptions  and  estimation  techniques  that  require  a  high  degree  of 
management judgment. The main factors that contribute to changes in ECL that are subject to significant judgment include the following:  

calibration of regulatory parameters in order to obtain point-in-time and forward-looking parameters; 
forecasts of macroeconomic variables for multiple scenarios and the probability weighting of the scenarios; 

 
 
  determination of the significant increases in credit risk (SICR) of a loan. 

National Bank of Canada 

151

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Note 7 – Loans and Allowances for Credit Losses (cont.) 

Main Parameters  
PD Estimates 
Since the objective of the regulatory calibration of PD is to align historical data to the long-run default rate, adjustments are required to obtain a point-in-time, 
forward-looking PD, as required by IFRS 9. The Bank performs the following: (1) A point-in-time calibration, where the PD of the portfolio is aligned with the 
appropriate default rate. The resulting PD estimate generally equals the prior-year default rate. The prior-year default rate is selected for the calibration performed 
at  this  stage,  as  it  often  reflects  one  of  the  most  accurate  and  appropriate  estimates  of  the  current-year  default  rate;  (2)  Forward-looking  adjustments  are 
incorporated through, among other measures, a calibration factor based on forecasts produced by the stress testing team's analyses. The team considers three 
macroeconomic scenarios, and, for each scenario, produces a forward-looking assessment covering the three upcoming years. 

LGD Estimates 
The LGD estimation method consists of using, for each of the three macroeconomic scenarios, expected LGD based on the LGD values observed using backtesting, 
the economic LGD estimated and used to calculate economic capital, and lastly, the estimated downturn LGD used to calculate regulatory capital. 

EAD Estimates 
For term loans, the Bank uses expected EAD, which is the outstanding balance anticipated at each point in time. Expected EAD decreases over time according to 
contractual repayments and to prepayments. For revolving loans, the EAD percentage is based on the percentage estimated by the corresponding regulatory 
model and, thereafter, is converted to dollars according to the authorized balance.  

Expected Life 
For most financial instruments, the expected life used when measuring expected credit losses is the remaining contractual life. For revolving financial instruments 
where there is no contractual maturity, such as credit cards or lines of credit, the expected life is based on the behavioural life of clients who have defaulted or 
closed their account. 

Incorporation of Forward-Looking Information  
The  Bank’s  Economy  and  Strategy  Group  is  responsible  for  developing  three  macroeconomic  scenarios  and  for  recommending  probability  weights  for  each 
scenario. Macroeconomic scenarios are not developed for specific portfolios, as the Economy and Strategy Group provides a set of variables for each of the 
defined scenarios for the next three years. The PDs are also adjusted to incorporate economic assumptions (interest rates, unemployment rates, GDP forecasts, 
oil  prices,  housing  price  indices,  etc.)  that  can  be  statistically  tied  to  PD  changes  that  will  have  an  impact  beyond  the  next  12  months.  These  statistical 
relationships are determined using the processes developed for stress testing. In addition, the group considers other relevant factors that may not be adequately 
reflected in the information used to calculate the PDs (including late payments and whether the financial asset is subject to additional monitoring within the 
watchlist process for business and government loan portfolios).  

Determination of a Significant Increase in the Credit Risk of a Financial Instrument 
At each reporting period, the Bank determines whether credit risk has increased significantly since initial recognition by examining the change in the risk of 
default occurring over the remaining life of the financial instrument. First, the Bank compares the point-in-time forward-looking remaining lifetime PD at the 
reporting date with the expected point-in-time forward-looking remaining lifetime PD established at initial recognition. Based on this comparison, the Bank 
determines whether the loan has deteriorated when compared to the initial conditions. Because the comparison includes an adjustment based on origination-
date forward-looking information and reporting-date forward-looking information, the deterioration may be caused by the following factors: (i) deterioration of 
the economic outlook used in the forward-looking assessment; (ii) deterioration of the borrower’s conditions (payment defaults, worsening financial ratios, etc.); 
or  (iii) a  combination  of  both  factors.  The  quantitative  criteria  used  to  determine  a  significant  increase  in  credit  risk  are  a  series  of  relative  and  absolute 
thresholds, and a backstop is also applied. All financial instruments that are over 30 days past due but below 90 days past due are migrated to Stage 2, even if 
the other criteria do not indicate a significant increase in credit risk.  

CCrreeddiitt  QQuuaalliittyy  ooff  LLooaannss  

The following tables present the gross carrying amounts of loans as at October 31, 2019 and 2018, according to credit quality and ECL impairment stage of each 
loan category at amortized cost, and according to credit quality for loans at fair value through profit or loss. For additional information on credit quality according 
to the Advanced Internal Rating-Based (AIRB) categories, see the Internal Default Risk Ratings table on page 69 in the Credit Risk Management section of the 
MD&A for the year ended October 31, 2019.  

152

152 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

AAss  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199  

NNoonn--iimmppaaiirreedd  llooaannss  
SSttaaggee  22  

SSttaaggee  11  

SSttaaggee  33  

IImmppaaiirreedd  llooaannss  
PPOOCCII  

LLooaannss  aatt  ffaaiirr  vvaalluuee  
tthhrroouugghh  pprrooffiitt  oorr  lloossss(1)  

RReessiiddeennttiiaall  mmoorrttggaaggee  
  Excellent 
  Good 
  Satisfactory 
  Special mention 
  Substandard 
  Default 
AIRB approach 
Standardized approach 
Gross carrying amount 
Allowances for credit losses(2) 
CCaarrrryyiinngg  aammoouunntt  

PPeerrssoonnaall  
  Excellent 
  Good 
  Satisfactory 
  Special mention 
  Substandard 
  Default 
AIRB approach 
Standardized approach 
Gross carrying amount 
Allowances for credit losses(2) 
CCaarrrryyiinngg  aammoouunntt  

CCrreeddiitt  ccaarrdd  
  Excellent 
  Good 
  Satisfactory 
  Special mention 
  Substandard 
  Default 
AIRB approach 
Standardized approach 
Gross carrying amount 
Allowances for credit losses(2) 
CCaarrrryyiinngg  aammoouunntt  

BBuussiinneessss  aanndd  ggoovveerrnnmmeenntt(3)  
  Excellent 
  Good 
  Satisfactory 
  Special mention 
  Substandard 
  Default 
AIRB approach 
Standardized approach 
Gross carrying amount 
Allowances for credit losses(2) 
CCaarrrryyiinngg  aammoouunntt  

TToottaall  llooaannss  
Gross carrying amount 
Allowances for credit losses(2) 
CCaarrrryyiinngg  aammoouunntt  

2211,,884400 
1144,,337755 
88,,117788 
441133 
110011 
−− 
4444,,990077 
33,,668866 
4488,,559933 
3377 
4488,,555566 

1144,,333311 
1100,,111199 
44,,997733 
441166 
110099 
−− 
2299,,994488 
33,,554455 
3333,,449933 
6644 
3333,,442299 

337700 
331166 
778866 
442211 
2222 
−− 
11,,991155 
3344 
11,,994499 
2266 
11,,992233 

44,,778833 
2222,,995511 
2222,,336677 
8877 
4455 
−− 
5500,,223333 
33,,777799 
5544,,001122 
5588 
5533,,995544 

113388,,004477 
118855 
113377,,886622 

−−
1111
667744
449977
224488
−−
11,,443300
1199
11,,444499
1122
11,,443377

−−
220066
11,,447777
771111
119999
−−
22,,559933
8833
22,,667766
110033
22,,557733

−−
−−
2200
224411
111122
−−
337733
−−
337733
110022
227711

−−
44
11,,334466
11,,113311
225555
−−
22,,773366
−−
22,,773366
9999
22,,663377

77,,223344
331166
66,,991188

−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
111177
111177
2277
114444
2255
111199

−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
113399
113399
2233
116622
6699
9933

−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
−−

−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
330066
330066
7722
337788
114400
223388

668844
223344
445500

−− 
−− 
−− 
−− 
−− 
−− 
−− 
555533 
555533 
((5533)) 
660066 

−− 
−− 
−− 
−− 
−− 
−− 
−− 
661133 
661133 
((44)) 
661177 

−− 
−− 
−− 
−− 
−− 
−− 
−− 
−− 
−− 
−− 
−− 

−− 
−− 
−− 
−− 
−− 
−− 
−− 
−− 
−− 
−− 
−− 

−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
66,,443322
66,,443322
−−
66,,443322

−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
−−

−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
−−

111122
5533
7722
−−
−−
−−
223377
112299
336666
−−
336666

TToottaall  

2211,,884400  
1144,,338866  
88,,885522  
991100  
334499  
111177  
4466,,445544  
1100,,771177  
5577,,117711  
2211  
5577,,115500  

1144,,333311  
1100,,332255  
66,,445500  
11,,112277  
330088  
113399  
3322,,668800  
44,,226644  
3366,,994444  
223322  
3366,,771122  

337700  
331166  
880066  
666622  
113344  
−−  
22,,228888  
3344  
22,,332222  
112288  
22,,119944  

44,,889955  
2233,,000088  
2233,,778855  
11,,221188  
330000  
330066  
5533,,551122  
33,,998800  
5577,,449922  
229977  
5577,,119955  

11,,116666 
((5577)) 
11,,222233 

66,,779988
−−
66,,779988

115533,,992299  
667788  
115533,,225511  

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 

Not subject to expected credit losses. 
The allowances for credit losses do not include the amounts related to undrawn commitments reported in the Other liabilities item of the Consolidated Balance Sheet. 
Includes customers’ liability under acceptances. 

National Bank of Canada 

153

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
  
 
  
  
  
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Note 7 – Loans and Allowances for Credit Losses (cont.) 

As at October 31, 2018 

Non-impaired loans 
Stage 2 

Stage 1 

Stage 3 

Impaired loans 
POCI 

Loans at fair value 
through profit or loss(1) 

RReessiiddeennttiiaall  mmoorrttggaaggee  
  Excellent 
  Good 
  Satisfactory 
  Special mention 
  Substandard 
  Default 
AIRB approach 
Standardized approach 
Gross carrying amount 
Allowances for credit losses(2) 
CCaarrrryyiinngg  aammoouunntt  

PPeerrssoonnaall  
  Excellent 
  Good 
  Satisfactory 
  Special mention 
  Substandard 
  Default 
AIRB approach 
Standardized approach 
Gross carrying amount 
Allowances for credit losses(2) 
CCaarrrryyiinngg  aammoouunntt  

CCrreeddiitt  ccaarrdd  
  Excellent 
  Good 
  Satisfactory 
  Special mention 
  Substandard 
  Default 
AIRB approach 
Standardized approach 
Gross carrying amount 
Allowances for credit losses(2) 
CCaarrrryyiinngg  aammoouunntt  

BBuussiinneessss  aanndd  ggoovveerrnnmmeenntt(3)  
  Excellent 
  Good 
  Satisfactory 
  Special mention 
  Substandard 
  Default 
AIRB approach 
Standardized approach 
Gross carrying amount 
Allowances for credit losses(2) 
CCaarrrryyiinngg  aammoouunntt  

TToottaall  llooaannss  
Gross carrying amount 
Allowances for credit losses(2) 
CCaarrrryyiinngg  aammoouunntt  

19,035 
14,928 
8,838 
421 
81 
− 
43,303 
2,546 
45,849 
31 
45,818 

13,625 
10,089 
5,430 
456 
91 
− 
29,691 
4,421 
34,112 
71 
34,041 

416 
306 
888 
294 
12 
− 
1,916 
27 
1,943 
24 
1,919 

4,736 
24,005 
18,986 
493 
55 
− 
48,275 
2,611 
50,886 
48 
50,838 

132,790 
174 
132,616 

−
10
348
621
300
−
1,279
27
1,306
13
1,293

2
52
902
694
204
−
1,854
140
1,994
120
1,874

−
−
37
249
96
−
382
−
382
105
277

−
6
1,068
758
121
−
1,953
1
1,954
86
1,868

5,636
324
5,312

−
−
−
−
−
128
128
23
151
21
130

−
−
−
−
−
137
137
27
164
71
93

−
−
−
−
−
−
−
−
−
−
−

−
−
−
−
−
276
276
39
315
134
181

630
226
404

− 
− 
− 
− 
− 
− 
− 
487 
487 
(64) 
551 

− 
− 
− 
− 
− 
− 
− 
1,087 
1,087 
(3) 
1,090 

− 
− 
− 
− 
− 
− 
− 
− 
− 
− 
− 

− 
− 
− 
− 
− 
− 
− 
2 
2 
1 
1 

−
−
−
−
−
−
−
5,858
5,858
−
5,858

−
−
−
−
−
−
−
−
−
−
−

−
−
−
−
−
−
−
−
−
−
−

111
55
84
−
−
−
250
−
250
−
250

Total 

19,035 
14,938 
9,186 
1,042 
381 
128 
44,710 
8,941 
53,651 
1 
53,650 

13,627  
10,141  
6,332  
1,150  
295  
137  
31,682  
5,675  
37,357  
259  
37,098  

416  
306  
925  
543  
108  
−  
2,298  
27  
2,325  
129  
2,196  

4,847  
24,066  
20,138  
1,251  
176  
276  
50,754  
2,653  
53,407  
269  
53,138  

1,576 
(66) 
1,642 

6,108
−
6,108

146,740  
658  
146,082  

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 

Not subject to expected credit losses. 
The allowances for credit losses do not include the amounts related to undrawn commitments reported in the Other liabilities item of the Consolidated Balance Sheet. 
Includes customers’ liability under acceptances. 

154

154 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
  
 
  
  
  
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

The following table presents the credit risk exposures of off-balance-sheet commitments as at October 31, 2019 and 2018 according to credit quality and ECL 
impairment stage. 

OOffff--bbaallaannccee--sshheeeett  ccoommmmiittmmeennttss(1)  
RReettaaiill  
  Excellent 
  Good 
  Satisfactory 
  Special mention 
  Substandard 
  Default 

NNoonn--rreettaaiill  
  Excellent 
  Good 
  Satisfactory 
  Special mention 
  Substandard 
  Default 
AIRB approach 
Standardized approach 
Total exposure 
Allowances for credit losses 
TToottaall  eexxppoossuurree,,  nneett  ooff  aalllloowwaanncceess  

SSttaaggee  11  

SSttaaggee  22  

SSttaaggee  33  

TToottaall  

Stage 1 

Stage 2 

Stage 3 

Total 

AAss  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199  

As at October 31, 2018 

1122,,008888 
33,,558855 
11,,332288 
111144 
55 
−− 

1100,,005500 
1144,,664400 
66,,116655 
1177 
116677 
−− 
4488,,115599 
66,,115544 
5544,,331133 
5533 
5544,,226600 

22
5511
118800
8822
1199
−−

−−
11
551133
116611
2299
−−
11,,003388
−−
11,,003388
2200
11,,001188

−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
44

−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
1166
2200
11
2211
11
2200

1122,,009900
33,,663366
11,,550088
119966
2244
44

1100,,005500
1144,,664411
66,,667788
117788
119966
1166
4499,,221177
66,,115555
5555,,337722
7744
5555,,229988

11,440
2,450
969
79
2
−

5,881
13,570
4,302
133
3
−
38,829
6,434
45,263
38
45,225

9 
13 
117 
77 
13 
− 

− 
− 
353 
142 
6 
− 
730 
− 
730 
15 
715 

−
−
−
−
−
2

−
−
−
−
−
4
6
5
11
1
10

11,449  
2,463  
1,086  
156  
15  
2  

5,881  
13,570  
4,655  
275  
9  
4  
39,565  
6,439  
46,004  
54  
45,950  

(1) 

Represent letters of guarantee and documentary letters of credit, undrawn commitments, and backstop liquidity and credit enhancement facilities.   

National Bank of Canada 

155

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
   
  
  
 
 
   
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Note 7 – Loans and Allowances for Credit Losses (cont.) 

LLooaannss  PPaasstt  DDuuee  BBuutt  NNoott  IImmppaaiirreedd(1) 

RReessiiddeennttiiaall  
mmoorrttggaaggee  

PPeerrssoonnaall  

CCrreeddiitt  ccaarrdd  

BBuussiinneessss  aanndd  
ggoovveerrnnmmeenntt(2)  

Residential 
mortgage 

Personal 

AAss  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199     

As at October 31, 2018  
Business and 
government(2) 

Credit card 

Past due but not impaired  
  31 to 60 days 
  61 to 90 days 
  Over 90 days(3) 

9922 
3344 
−− 
112266 

8822 
3344 
−− 
111166 

2277
1133
2288
6688

3311
2211
−−
5522

105
41
−
146

102 
59 
− 
161 

27
13
27
67

36 
41 
− 
77 

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 

Loans less than 31 days past due are not presented as they are not considered past due from an administrative standpoint. 
Includes customers’ liability under acceptances.  
All loans more than 90 days past due, except for credit card receivables, are considered impaired (Stage 3). 

IImmppaaiirreedd  LLooaannss  

LLooaannss  –  SSttaaggee  33  
  Residential mortgage 
  Personal 
  Credit card(1) 
  Business and government(2) 

LLooaannss  –  PPOOCCII  

AAss  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199   

As at October 31, 2018   

GGrroossss     

AAlllloowwaanncceess  ffoorr  
ccrreeddiitt  lloosssseess     

NNeett    

Gross 

Allowances for 
credit losses 

114444
116622
−−
337788
668844
11,,116666
11,,885500

2255
6699
−−
114400
223344
((5577))
117777

111199    
9933    
−−    
223388    
445500    
11,,222233    
11,,667733    

151 
164 
− 
315 
630 
1,576 
2,206 

21
71
−
134
226
(66)
160

Net 

130 
93 
− 
181 
404 
1,642 
2,046 

(1) 
(2) 

Credit card receivables are considered impaired, at the latest, when payment is 180 days past due, and they are written off at that time. 
Includes customers’ liability under acceptances. 

MMaaxxiimmuumm  EExxppoossuurree  ttoo  CCrreeddiitt  RRiisskk  oonn  IImmppaaiirreedd  LLooaannss  

The following table presents the maximum exposure to credit risk of impaired loans, the percentage of exposure covered by guarantees, and the main types of 
collateral and guarantees held for each loan category.  

As at October 31 

22001199      

GGrroossss  
iimmppaaiirreedd  llooaannss  

PPeerrcceennttaaggee  ccoovveerreedd  
bbyy  gguuaarraanntteeeess(1)  

Gross 
impaired loans 

2018   
Percentage covered 
by guarantees(1) 

Types of collateral 
and guarantees 

LLooaannss  –  SSttaaggee  33  
  Residential mortgage 
  Personal 
  Business and government(2) 

LLooaannss  –  PPOOCCII  

114444     
116622     
337788     

11,,116666     

110000  %%    
4466  %%    
5533  %%    

2288  %%    

151   
164   
315   

1,576   

100 %   
44 %   
54 %   

14 %   

Residential buildings  
Buildings and automobiles  
Buildings, equipment,  
government and bank guarantees  
Buildings and automobiles  

(1) 

(2) 

For gross impaired loans, the ratio is calculated on a weighted average basis using the estimated value of the collateral and guarantees held for each loan category presented. The value of the 
collateral and guarantees held for a specific loan may exceed the balance of the loan; when this is the case, the ratio is capped at 100%. 
Includes customers’ liability under acceptances. 

156

156 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
 
   
    
  
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
   
    
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
 
 
  
     
     
   
   
   
 
   
  
 
  
 
  
    
  
 
 
   
 
   
    
     
    
   
    
 
    
     
    
   
    
 
 
 
 
   
    
     
    
   
  
 
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

AAlllloowwaanncceess  ffoorr  CCrreeddiitt  LLoosssseess  
The tables below present a reconciliation of the allowances for credit losses by Consolidated Balance Sheet item and by type of off-balance-sheet commitment.  

AAlllloowwaanncceess  ffoorr  
ccrreeddiitt  lloosssseess  aass  aatt  
OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001188   

PPrroovviissiioonnss  ffoorr  
ccrreeddiitt  lloosssseess   

WWrriittee--ooffffss(1)   

DDiissppoossaallss   

YYeeaarr  eennddeedd  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199  
AAlllloowwaanncceess  ffoorr  
ccrreeddiitt  lloosssseess  aass  
aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199  

RReeccoovveerriieess  
aanndd  ootthheerr   

BBaallaannccee  sshheeeett  
CCaasshh  aanndd  ddeeppoossiittss  wwiitthh  ffiinnaanncciiaall  iinnssttiittuuttiioonnss(2)(3)  

SSeeccuurriittiieess(3)  
  At fair value through other comprehensive income(4) 
  At amortized cost(2) 

SSeeccuurriittiieess  ppuurrcchhaasseedd  uunnddeerr  rreevveerrssee  rreeppuurrcchhaassee  
   aaggrreeeemmeennttss  aanndd  sseeccuurriittiieess  bboorrrroowweedd(2)(3)  

LLooaannss(5)  
  Residential mortgage 
  Personal 
  Credit card 
  Business and government 
  Customers' liability under acceptances 

OOtthheerr  aasssseettss(2)(3)  

OOffff--bbaallaannccee--sshheeeett  ccoommmmiittmmeennttss(6)  
Letters of guarantee and documentary letters of credit 
Undrawn commitments 
Backstop liquidity and credit enhancement facilities 

BBaallaannccee  sshheeeett  
CCaasshh  aanndd  ddeeppoossiittss  wwiitthh  ffiinnaanncciiaall  iinnssttiittuuttiioonnss(2)(3)  

SSeeccuurriittiieess(3)  
  At fair value through other comprehensive income(4) 
  At amortized cost(2) 

SSeeccuurriittiieess  ppuurrcchhaasseedd  uunnddeerr  rreevveerrssee  rreeppuurrcchhaassee  
   aaggrreeeemmeennttss  aanndd  sseeccuurriittiieess  bboorrrroowweedd(2)(3)  

LLooaannss(5)  
  Residential mortgage 
  Personal 
  Credit card 
  Business and government 
  Customers' liability under acceptances 

OOtthheerr  aasssseettss(2)(3)  

OOffff--bbaallaannccee--sshheeeett  ccoommmmiittmmeennttss(6)  
Letters of guarantee and documentary letters of credit 
Undrawn commitments 
Backstop liquidity and credit enhancement facilities 

11  

−−  
11  

−−  

11  
225599  
112299  
224499  
2200  
665588  

−−  

33  
4499  
22  
5544  
771144  

11  

−−  
−−  

−−  

2266  
113377  
8888  
6666  
99  
332266  

−−  

33  
1177  
−−  
2200  
334477  

−−  

−−  
−−  

−−  

((77))  
((118888))  
((110044))  
((5522))  
−−  
((335511))  

−−  

−−  
−−  
−−  
−−  
((335511))  

−−  

−−  
−−  

−−  

−−  
−−  
−−  
((11))  
−−  
((11))  

−−  

−−  
−−  
−−  
−−  
((11))  

−−  

−−  
−−  

−−  

11  
2244  
1155  
66  
−−  
4466  

−−  

−−  
−−  
−−  
−−  
4466  

22  

−−  
11  

−−  

2211  
223322  
112288  
226688  
2299  
667788  

−−  

66  
6666  
22  
7744  
775555  

Allowances for 
credit losses as at 
November 1, 2017  

Provisions for 
credit losses  

Write-offs(1)  

Disposals  

Year ended October 31, 2018 
Allowances for 
credit losses as 
at October 31, 2018 

Recoveries 
and other  

1 

− 
3 

− 

18 
261 
128 
250 
16 
673 

− 

3 
54 
1 
58 

735 

− 

− 
(2) 

− 

(3) 
179 
91 
68 
4 
339 

− 

− 
(11) 
1 
(10) 

327 

− 

− 
− 

− 

(9) 
(196) 
(98) 
(64) 
− 
(367) 

− 

− 
− 
− 
− 

− 

− 
− 

− 

(6) 
(5) 
− 
(13) 
− 
(24) 

− 

− 
− 
− 
− 

(367) 

(24) 

− 

− 
− 

− 

1 
20 
8 
8 
− 
37 

− 

− 
6 
− 
6 

43 

1 

− 
1 

− 

1 
259 
129 
249 
20 
658 

− 

3 
49 
2 
54 

714 

(1) 

(2) 
(3) 
(4) 
(5) 
(6) 

The contractual amount outstanding on financial assets that were written off during the year ended October 31, 2019 and that are still subject to enforcement activity was $166 million 
($152 million for the year ended October 31, 2018). 
These financial assets are presented net of the allowances for credit losses on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. 
As at October 31, 2019 and 2018, these financial assets were mainly classified in Stage 1 and their credit quality fell within the Excellent category. 
The allowances for credit losses are reported in the Accumulated other comprehensive income item of the Consolidated Balance Sheet. 
The allowances for credit losses are reported in the Allowances for credit losses item of the Consolidated Balance Sheet. 
The allowances for credit losses are reported in the Other liabilities item of the Consolidated Balance Sheet. 

National Bank of Canada 

157

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
 
   
     
  
     
     
     
  
   
  
     
     
     
     
  
  
  
 
 
  
  
   
 
 
  
 
   
  
 
     
 
   
   
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
 
  
  
 
 
  
  
   
 
 
  
 
   
 
 
  
 
  
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Note 7 – Loans and Allowances for Credit Losses (cont.) 

The following tables present the reconciliation of allowances for credit losses for each loan category at amortized cost according to ECL impairment stage. 

YYeeaarr  eennddeedd  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199    

Year ended October 31, 2018 

RReessiiddeennttiiaall  mmoorrttggaaggee  
Balance at beginning 
  Originations or purchases 
  Transfers(2): 
    to Stage 1 
    to Stage 2 
    to Stage 3 
  Net remeasurement of loss allowances(3) 
  Derecognitions(4) 
  Changes to models 
Provisions for credit losses 
Write-offs 
Disposals 
Recoveries 
Foreign exchange movements and other 
BBaallaannccee  aatt  eenndd  
Includes: 
  Amounts drawn 
  Undrawn commitments(5) 

PPeerrssoonnaall  
Balance at beginning 
  Originations or purchases 
  Transfers(2): 
    to Stage 1 
    to Stage 2 
    to Stage 3 
  Net remeasurement of loss allowances(3) 
  Derecognitions(4) 
  Changes to models 
Provisions for credit losses 
Write-offs 
Disposals 
Recoveries 
Foreign exchange movements and other 
BBaallaannccee  aatt  eenndd  
Includes: 
  Amounts drawn 
  Undrawn commitments(5) 

AAlllloowwaanncceess  ffoorr  
ccrreeddiitt  lloosssseess  oonn  
nnoonn--iimmppaaiirreedd  llooaannss    
SSttaaggee  22  

SSttaaggee  11  

AAlllloowwaanncceess  ffoorr  
ccrreeddiitt  lloosssseess  oonn  
iimmppaaiirreedd  llooaannss  
PPOOCCII(1)  

SSttaaggee  33  

Allowances for 
credit losses on 
non-impaired loans  
Stage 2 

Stage 1 

Allowances for 
credit losses on 
impaired loans 
POCI(1) 

Stage 3 

TToottaall  

3311 
1177 

1133 
((11)) 
−− 
((2222)) 
((11)) 
−− 
66 
−− 
−− 
−− 
−− 
3377 

3377 
−− 

7722 
4488 

7722 
((1199)) 
((77)) 
((9911)) 
((1111)) 
−− 
((88)) 
−− 
−− 
−− 
11 
6655 

6644 
11 

1133
−−

((1100))
22
((44))
1122
((11))
−−
((11))
−−
−−
−−
−−
1122

1122
−−

112211
−−

((6644))
2233
((9911))
112277
((1111))
−−
((1166))
−−
−−
−−
((11))
110044

110033
11

2211
−−

((33))
((11))
44
1100
−−
−−
1100
((77))
−−
22
((11))
2255

2255
−−

7711
−−

((88))
((44))
9988
8811
((55))
−−
116622
((118888))
−−
2277
((33))
6699

6699
−−

((6644))
−−

−−
−−
−−
1111
−−
−−
1111
−−
−−
−−
−−
((5533))

((5533))
−−

((33))
−−

−−
−−
−−
((11))
−−
−−
((11))
−−
−−
−−
−−
((44))

((44))
−−

11
1177

−−
−−
−−
1111
((22))
−−
2266
((77))
−−
22
((11))
2211

2211
−−

226611
4488

−−
−−
−−
111166
((2277))
−−
113377
((118888))
−−
2277
((33))
223344

223322
22

22
14

12
−
−
(15)
(1)
−
10
−
−
−
(1)
31

31
−

91
48

80
(29)
(8)
(100)
(15)
4
(20)
−
−
−
1
72

71
1

10 
− 

(10) 
2 
(4) 
17 
(2) 
− 
3 
− 
− 
− 
− 
13 

13 
− 

107 
− 

(76) 
35 
(123) 
203 
(14) 
(13) 
12 
− 
− 
− 
2 
121 

120 
1 

17
−

(2)
(2)
4
14
(4)
−
10
(9)
−
4
(1)
21

21
−

59
−

(4)
(6)
131
71
(2)
−
190
(196)
−
20
(2)
71

71
−

(31)
−

−
−
−
(26)
−
−
(26)
−
(6)
−
(1)
(64)

(64)
−

7
−

−
−
−
(4)
−
−
(4)
−
(5)
−
(1)
(3)

(3)
−

Total 

18 
14 

− 
− 
− 
(10) 
(7) 
− 
(3) 
(9) 
(6) 
4 
(3) 
1 

1 
− 

264 
48 

− 
− 
− 
170 
(31) 
(9) 
178 
(196) 
(5) 
20 
− 
261 

259 
2 

(1) 

(2) 
(3) 
(4) 
(5) 

The total amount of undiscounted initially expected credit losses on the POCI loans acquired for the year ended October 31, 2019 was $92 million ($258 million for the year ended October 31, 
2018). The expected credit losses reflected in the purchase price were discounted. 
Represent stage transfers deemed to have taken place at the beginning of the quarter in which the transfer occurred. 
Includes the net remeasurement of loss allowances (after transfers) attributable mainly to changes in volumes and in the credit quality of existing loans as well as to changes in risk parameters. 
Represent reversals to loss allowances arising from full loan repayments (excluding write-offs and disposals). 
The allowances for credit losses on undrawn commitments are reported in the Other liabilities item of the Consolidated Balance Sheet.  

158

158 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
  
   
        
  
     
  
   
 
        
  
 
 
 
  
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

YYeeaarr  eennddeedd  OOccttoobbeerr 3311,,  22001199

Year ended October 31, 2018

AAlllloowwaanncceess  ffoorr  
ccrreeddiitt  lloosssseess  oonn
nnoonn--iimmppaaiirreedd  llooaannss   
SSttaaggee  22

SSttaaggee  11  

AAlllloowwaanncceess  ffoorr  
ccrreeddiitt  lloosssseess  oonn
iimmppaaiirreedd  llooaannss
PPOOCCII(1)

SSttaaggee  33

Allowances for 
credit losses on 
non-impaired loans  
Stage 2 

Stage 1

Allowances for 
credit losses on 
impaired loans
POCI(1)

Stage 3

CCrreeddiitt  ccaarrdd  
Balance at beginning 
  Originations or purchases 
  Transfers(2): 
    to Stage 1 
    to Stage 2 
    to Stage 3 
  Net remeasurement of loss allowances(3) 
  Derecognitions(4) 
  Changes to models 
Provisions for credit losses 
Write-offs 
Disposals 
Recoveries 
Foreign exchange movements and other 
BBaallaannccee  aatt  eenndd  
Includes: 
  Amounts drawn 
  Undrawn commitments(5) 

BBuussiinneessss  aanndd  ggoovveerrnnmmeenntt(6)  
Balance at beginning 
  Originations or purchases 
  Transfers(2): 
    to Stage 1 
    to Stage 2 
    to Stage 3 
  Net remeasurement of loss allowances(3) 
  Derecognitions(4) 
  Changes to models 
Provisions for credit losses 
Write-offs 
Disposals 
Recoveries 
Foreign exchange movements and other 
BBaallaannccee  aatt  eenndd  
Includes: 
  Amounts drawn 
  Undrawn commitments(5) 

TToottaall  aalllloowwaanncceess  ffoorr  ccrreeddiitt  lloosssseess  aatt  eenndd(7)  
Includes: 
  Amounts drawn 
  Undrawn commitments(5) 

4400 
88 

9977 
((1155)) 
((22)) 
((8899)) 
((44)) 
1122 
77 
−− 
−− 
−− 
−− 
4477 

2266 
2211 

6655 
2299 

2277 
((88)) 
((11)) 
((1199)) 
((1100)) 
−− 
1188 
−− 
−− 
−− 
−− 
8833 

5588 
2255 

223322 

118855 
4477 

111155
−−

((9977))
1155
((3399))
112288
((22))
((77))
((22))
−−
−−
−−
−−
111133

110022
1111

8899
−−

((1199))
1188
((44))
2266
((55))
−−
1166
−−
−−
−−
−−
110055

9999
66

333344

331166
1188

−−
−−

−−
−−
4411
4488
−−
−−
8899
((110044))
−−
1155
−−
−−

−−
−−

113355
−−

((88))
((1100))
55
7755
((1100))
−−
5522
((5522))
−−
88
((22))
114411

114400
11

223355

223344
11

TToottaall

115555  
88  

−−  
−−  
−−  
8877  
((66))
55  
9944  
((110044))
−−  
1155  
−−  
116600  

112288  
3322  

229900  
2299  

−−  
−−  
−−  
8822  
((2255))
−−  
8866  
((5522))
((11))
88  
((22))
332299  

229977  
3322  

−−
−−

−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
−−

−−
−−

11
−−

−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
((11))
−−
−−
−−

−−
−−

((5577))

774444  

((5577))
−−

667788  
6666  

41
8

95
(14)
−
(89)
(1)
−
(1)
−
−
−
−
40

24
16

53
32

21
(4)
−
(26)
(12)
−
11
−
−
−
1
65

48
17

208

174
34

112 
− 

(95) 
14 
(53) 
172 
(35) 
− 
3 
− 
− 
− 
− 
115 

105 
10 

74 
− 

(16) 
7 
(2) 
30 
(4) 
− 
15 
− 
− 
− 
− 
89 

86 
3 

338 

324 
14 

−
−

−
−
53
31
−
−
84
(98)
−
14
−
−

−
−

165
−

(5)
(3)
2
55
(9)
−
40
(64)
(13)
7
−
135

134
1

227

226
1

Total

153 
8 

− 
− 
− 
114 
(36)
− 
86 
(98)
− 
14 
− 
155 

129 
26 

292 
32 

− 
− 
− 
60 
(25)
− 
67 
(64)
(13)
7 
1 
290 

269 
21 

−
−

−
−
−
−
−
−
−
−
−
−
−
−

−
−

−
−

−
−
−
1
−
−
1
−
−
−
−
1

1
−

(66)

707 

(66)
−

658 
49 

(1) 

(2) 
(3) 
(4) 
(5) 
(6) 
(7) 

The  total  amount  of  undiscounted  initially  expected  credit  losses  on  the  POCI  loans  acquired  during  the  year  ended  October 31,  2019  was  $92 million  ($258 million  for  the  year  ended 
October 31, 2018). The expected credit losses reflected in the purchase price were discounted.  
Represent stage transfers deemed to have taken place at the beginning of the quarter in which the transfer occurred.  
Includes the net remeasurement of loss allowances (after transfers) attributable mainly to changes in volumes and in the credit quality of existing loans as well as to changes in risk parameters.  
Represent reversals to loss allowances arising from full loan repayments (excluding write-offs and disposals).  
The allowances for credit losses on undrawn commitments are reported in the Other liabilities item of the Consolidated Balance Sheet.  
Includes customers’ liability under acceptances.  
Excludes allowances for credit losses on other financial assets at amortized cost and on off-balance-sheet commitments other than undrawn commitments. 

National Bank of Canada 

159

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
  
        
  
     
 
        
  
 
 
  
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Note 7 – Loans and Allowances for Credit Losses (cont.) 

Distribution of Gross and Impaired Loans by Borrower Category Under the Basel Asset Classes 

RReettaaiill  
  Residential mortgage(3) 
  Qualifying revolving retail(4) 
  Other retail(5) 

NNoonn--rreettaaiill  
  Agriculture 
  Oil and gas and pipelines 
  Mining 
  Utilities 
  Non-real-estate construction(6) 
  Manufacturing 
  Wholesale 
  Retail 
  Transportation 
  Communications 
  Finance and insurance 
  Real estate services and real estate construction(7) 
  Professional services 
  Education and health care 
  Other services 
  Government 
  Other 

SSttaaggeess  11  aanndd  22(8)  

PPOOCCII  

GGrroossss  
llooaannss(1)    

IImmppaaiirreedd  
llooaannss(1)    

AAss  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311  
AAlllloowwaanncceess  ffoorr  
ccrreeddiitt  lloosssseess  oonn  
iimmppaaiirreedd  llooaannss(1)(2)    

22001199   

YYeeaarr  eennddeedd  OOccttoobbeerr  3311    

PPrroovviissiioonnss  ffoorr  
ccrreeddiitt  lloosssseess    

WWrriittee--ooffffss   

7744,,444488
44,,009999
1111,,660066
9900,,115533

66,,330088
44,,332299
775588
33,,337722
11,,116688
66,,330033
22,,222211
33,,228899
11,,668822
11,,661144
44,,333355
1111,,663355
11,,884466
33,,552200
44,,993377
11,,007711
44,,222222
6622,,661100

118833
2244
8844
229911

7777
6633
−−
−−
−−
5500
2288
44
99
2277
1122
3322
88
6622
2200
−−
11
339933

11,,116666
115533,,992299

11,,116666
11,,885500

2288  
1155  
4499  
9922  

44  
3322  
−−  
−−  
−−  
2288  
1100  
22  
11  
1111  
11  
1144  
55  
2211  
1122  
−−  
11  
114422     

557788     

((5577))    
775555     

1100
111122
113399
226611

((33))
44
−−
−−
−−
77
77
((11))
77
55
−−
1100
11
1144
((11))
−−
11
5511

2255

1100
334477

88    
112277    
116644    
229999    

−−    
2211    
−−    
−−    
−−    
33    
33    
11    
66    
77    
−−    
33    
33    
−−    
55    
−−    
−−    
5522    

335511    

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 
(4) 
(5) 
(6) 
(7) 
(8) 

Includes customers’ liability under acceptances. 
Allowances for credit losses on drawn amounts. 
Includes residential mortgages on one-to-four-unit dwellings (Basel definition) and home equity lines of credit. 
Includes lines of credit and credit card receivables. 
Includes consumer loans and other retail loans but excludes SME loans. 
Includes civil engineering loans, public-private partnership loans, and project finance loans. 
Includes residential mortgages on dwellings of five or more units and SME loans. 
Includes other financial assets at amortized cost and off-balance-sheet commitments; the allowances for credit losses on off-balance-sheet commitments include an amount of $1 million for 
undrawn Stage 3 commitments related to business and government loans. 

160

160 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
 
   
     
 
   
   
   
 
     
     
 
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
     
 
     
 
 
        
 
 
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

RReettaaiill  
  Residential mortgage(3) 
  Qualifying revolving retail(4) 
  Other retail(5) 

NNoonn--rreettaaiill  
  Agriculture 
  Oil and gas and pipelines(6) 
  Mining 
  Utilities 
  Non-real-estate construction(6)(7) 
  Manufacturing(6) 
  Wholesale 
  Retail 
  Transportation(6) 
  Communications 
  Finance and insurance 
  Real estate services and real estate construction(6)(8) 
  Professional services 
  Education and health care(6) 
  Other services 
  Government 
  Other 

SSttaaggeess  11  aanndd  22(9)  

PPOOCCII  

Gross 
loans(1)  

Impaired 
loans(1)  

As at October 31  
Allowances for 
credit losses on 
impaired loans(1)(2)  

2018  

Year ended October 31  

Provisions for 
credit losses  

Write-offs  

70,591
4,211
12,246
87,048

5,759
4,056
1,032
2,715
1,049
5,303
2,163
3,069
1,452
1,597
4,732
11,629
1,582
3,284
4,715
1,445
2,534
58,116

190
23
91
304

63
97
−
−
1
48
13
11
2
19
19
18
6
4
24
−
1
326

1,576
146,740

1,576
2,206

22 
14 
53 
89 

7 
53 
− 
− 
1 
22 
6 
4 
1 
12 
1 
5 
3 
4 
17 
− 
1 
137 

554 

(66) 
714 

10
108
165
283

1
12
−
−
−
11
−
11
1
3
−
(3)
1
3
5
−
(4)
41

32

(29)
327

9   
123   
171   
303   

−   
12   
−   
3   
−   
2   
1   
22   
2   
−   
−   
16   
1   
−   
3   
−   
2   
64   

367   

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 
(4) 
(5) 
(6) 
(7) 
(8) 
(9) 

Includes customers’ liability under acceptances. 
Allowances for credit losses on drawn amounts. 
Includes residential mortgages on one-to-four-unit dwellings (Basel definition) and home equity lines of credit. 
Includes lines of credit and credit card receivables. 
Includes consumer loans and other retail loans but excludes SME loans. 
The presentation of certain borrower categories was changed during fiscal 2019. Comparative figures have been reclassified. 
Includes civil engineering loans, public-private partnership loans, and project finance loans. 
Includes residential mortgages on dwellings of five or more units and SME loans. 
Includes other financial assets at amortized cost and off-balance-sheet commitments; the allowances for credit losses on off-balance-sheet commitments include an amount of $1 million for 
undrawn Stage 3 commitments related to business and government loans.  

National Bank of Canada 

161

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
     
 
   
   
   
 
     
     
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
     
 
     
 
 
        
 
  
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Note 7 – Loans and Allowances for Credit Losses (cont.) 

MMaaiinn  MMaaccrrooeeccoonnoommiicc  FFaaccttoorrss  

The following tables show the main macroeconomic factors used to estimate the allowances for credit losses on loans. For each scenario, namely, the base case, 
upside  scenario  and  downside  scenario,  the  average  values  of  the  factors  over  the  next  12  months  (used  for  Stage  1  credit  loss  calculations)  and  over  the 
remaining forecast period (used for Stage 2 credit loss calculations) are presented.  

MMaaccrrooeeccoonnoommiicc  ffaaccttoorrss(1) 
  GDP growth(2) 
  Unemployment rate 
  Housing price index growth(2) 
  BBB spread(3) 
  S&P/TSX growth(2)(4) 
  WTI oil price(5) (US$ per barrel) 

MMaaccrrooeeccoonnoommiicc  ffaaccttoorrss(1) 
  GDP growth(2) 
  Unemployment rate 
  Housing price index growth(2) 
  BBB spread(3) 
  S&P/TSX growth(2)(4) 
  WTI oil price(5) (US$ per barrel) 

NNeexxtt  
1122  mmoonntthhss  

BBaassee  sscceennaarriioo  
RReemmaaiinniinngg  
ffoorreeccaasstt  ppeerriioodd  

NNeexxtt  
1122  mmoonntthhss  

UUppssiiddee  sscceennaarriioo  
RReemmaaiinniinngg  
ffoorreeccaasstt  ppeerriioodd  

NNeexxtt  
1122  mmoonntthhss  

AAss  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199    
DDoowwnnssiiddee  sscceennaarriioo  
RReemmaaiinniinngg  
ffoorreeccaasstt  ppeerriioodd  

11..55  %%   
55..88  %%   
33..11  %%   
11..66  %%   
44..99  %%   
6611   

11..66 %%
55..77 %%
33..11 %%
11..66 %%
22..44 %%
6600

22..00 %%
55..66 %%
66..11 %%
11..55 %%
88..55 %%
7711

22..11 %%   
55..33 %%   
22..33 %%   
11..44 %%   
22..99 %%   
6699

((22..00)) %%
66..88  %%
((1100..99)) %%
22..77  %%
((1144..11)) %%
3399 

11..66 %%   
77..55 %%   
((00..33)) %%   
22..66 %%   
66..66 %%   
3399

Next 
12 months 

Base scenario 
Remaining 
forecast period 

Next 
12 months 

Upside scenario 
Remaining 
forecast period 

Next 
12 months 

As at October 31, 2018  
Downside scenario 
Remaining 
forecast period 

1.9  %   
5.7  %   
2.8  %   
1.6  %   
3.5  %   
71   

1.5 %
5.5 %
0.8 %
1.5 %
2.4 %
68

2.5 %
5.6 %
3.4 %
1.4 %
6.4 %
75

2.0 %   
5.3 %   
2.1 %   
1.2 %   
3.8 %   
81

(2.3) %
7.0  %
(10.6) %
2.6  %
(18.5) %
46 

1.5 %  
7.8 %  
(0.3) %  
2.6 %  
6.9 %  
36

All macroeconomic factors are based on the Canadian economy unless otherwise indicated. 
Growth rate is annualized. 
Yield on corporate BBB bonds less yield on Canadian federal government bonds with 10-year maturity. 

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 
(4)  Main stock index in Canada. 
(5) 

The West Texas Intermediate (WTI) oil price index is commonly used as a benchmark. 

The main macroeconomic factors used for the personal credit portfolio are unemployment rate and housing price index growth, based on the economy of Canada 
or Quebec. The main macroeconomic factors used for the business and government credit portfolio are unemployment rate, BBB spread, S&P/TSX growth, and 
WTI oil price. 

An  increase  in  unemployment  rate  or  BBB  spread  will  generally  correlate  with  higher  allowances  for  credit  losses,  whereas  an  increase  in  the  other 
macroeconomic factors (GDP growth, S&P/TSX growth, housing price index growth, and WTI oil price) will generally correlate with lower allowances for credit 
losses. 

162

162 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
    
  
     
  
     
  
     
  
     
  
     
  
  
    
  
     
  
     
  
     
  
     
  
     
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

SSeennssiittiivviittyy  AAnnaallyyssiiss  ooff  AAlllloowwaanncceess  ffoorr  CCrreeddiitt  LLoosssseess  oonn  NNoonn--IImmppaaiirreedd  LLooaannss  

SScceennaarriiooss  
The following table shows a comparison of the Bank's allowances for credit losses on non-impaired loans (Stages 1 and 2) as at October 31, 2019 based on the 
probability weightings of three scenarios with allowances for credit losses resulting from simulations of each scenario weighted at 100%. 

BBaallaannccee  aass  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199  

SSiimmuullaattiioonnss  
  100% upside scenario 
  100% base scenario 
  100% downside scenario 

AAlllloowwaanncceess  ffoorr  ccrreeddiitt  lloosssseess  
oonn  nnoonn--iimmppaaiirreedd  llooaannss  

556666     

446677     
449944     
777744     

MMiiggrraattiioonn  
The following table shows a comparison of the Bank's allowances for credit losses on non-impaired loans (Stages 1 and 2) as at October 31, 2019 with the 
estimated allowances for credit losses that would result if all these non-impaired loans were in Stage 1. 

BBaallaannccee  aass  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199  

SSiimmuullaattiioonnss  
  Non-impaired loans if they were all in Stage 1 

AAlllloowwaanncceess  ffoorr  ccrreeddiitt  lloosssseess  
oonn  nnoonn--iimmppaaiirreedd  llooaannss  

556666     

443399     

National Bank of Canada 

163

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
   
 
   
    
  
 
   
    
  
    
  
 
 
 
  
  
   
 
   
    
  
 
   
    
  
    
  
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

NNoottee  88  ––  FFiinnaanncciiaall  AAsssseettss  TTrraannssffeerrrreedd  BBuutt  NNoott  DDeerreeccooggnniizzeedd  

In the normal course of its business, the Bank enters into transactions in which it transfers financial assets such as securities or loans directly to third parties, 
in particular structured entities. According to the terms of some of those transactions, the Bank retains substantially all of the risks and rewards related to those 
financial assets. The risks include credit risk, interest rate risk, foreign exchange risk, prepayment risk and other price risks, whereas the rewards include income 
streams associated with the financial assets. As such, those financial assets are not derecognized and the transactions are treated as collateralized or secured 
borrowings. The nature of those transactions is described below. 

SSeeccuurriittiieess  SSoolldd  UUnnddeerr  RReeppuurrcchhaassee  AAggrreeeemmeennttss  aanndd  SSeeccuurriittiieess  LLooaanneedd  
When securities are sold under repurchase agreements and securities loaned under securities lending agreements, the Bank transfers financial assets to third 
parties in accordance with the standard terms for such transactions. These third parties may have an unlimited right to resell or repledge the financial assets 
received. If cash collateral is received, the Bank records the cash along with an obligation to return the cash, which is included in Obligations related to securities 
sold under repurchase agreements and securities loaned on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. Where securities are received as collateral, the Bank does not 
record the collateral on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. 

FFiinnaanncciiaall  AAsssseettss  TTrraannssffeerrrreedd  ttoo  SSttrruuccttuurreedd  EEnnttiittiieess  
Under the Canada Mortgage Bond (CMB) program, the Bank sells securities backed by insured residential mortgages and other securities to Canada Housing 
Trust (CHT), which finances the purchase through the issuance of insured mortgage bonds. Third-party CMB investors have legal recourse only to the transferred 
assets.  The  cash  received  for  these  transferred  assets  is  treated  as  a  secured  borrowing,  and  a  corresponding  liability  is  recorded  in Liabilities related to 
transferred receivables on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. 

The following table provides additional information about the nature of the transferred financial assets that do not qualify for derecognition and the associated 
liabilities. 

As at October 31 

22001199  

2018 

CCaarrrryyiinngg  vvaalluuee  ooff  ffiinnaanncciiaall  aasssseettss  ttrraannssffeerrrreedd  bbuutt  nnoott  ddeerreeccooggnniizzeedd  
  Securities(1) 
  Residential mortgages 

CCaarrrryyiinngg  vvaalluuee  ooff  aassssoocciiaatteedd  lliiaabbiilliittiieess(2)  

FFaaiirr  vvaalluuee  ooff  ffiinnaanncciiaall  aasssseettss  ttrraannssffeerrrreedd  bbuutt  nnoott  ddeerreeccooggnniizzeedd  
  Securities(1) 
  Residential mortgages 

FFaaiirr  vvaalluuee  ooff  aassssoocciiaatteedd  lliiaabbiilliittiieess(2)  

4477,,229977 
2200,,114422 
6677,,443399 

3366,,662255 

4477,,229977 
2200,,330088 
6677,,660055 

3366,,771144 

44,125 
20,064 
64,189 

32,834 

44,125 
19,993 
64,118 

32,809 

(1) 

(2) 

The amount related to the securities loaned is the maximum amount of Bank securities that can be lent. For the obligations related to securities sold under repurchase agreements, the amount 
includes the Bank’s own financial assets as well as those of third parties. 
Associated liabilities include obligations related to securities sold under repurchase agreements before the offsetting impact of $3,166 million as at October 31, 2019 ($287 million as at 
October 31, 2018) and liabilities related to transferred receivables. Liabilities related to securities loaned are not included, as the Bank can lend its own financial assets and those of third 
parties. The carrying value and fair value of liabilities related to securities loaned were $9,753 million as at October 31, 2019 ($7,550 million as at October 31, 2018). 

The following table specifies the nature of the transactions related to financial assets transferred but not derecognized. 

As at October 31 

CCaarrrryyiinngg  vvaalluuee  ooff  ffiinnaanncciiaall  aasssseettss  ttrraannssffeerrrreedd  bbuutt  nnoott  ddeerreeccooggnniizzeedd  
  Securities backed by insured residential mortgages and other securities sold to CHT 
  Securities sold under repurchase agreements 
  Securities loaned 

22001199  

2018 

2211,,003355 
1166,,229944 
3300,,111100 
6677,,443399 

20,576 
12,927 
30,686 
64,189 

164

164 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
  
  
     
 
 
 
 
  
 
        
 
 
        
 
 
 
  
 
  
  
 
        
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
  
  
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

NNoottee  99  ––  IInnvveessttmmeennttss  iinn  AAssssoocciiaatteess  aanndd  JJooiinntt  VVeennttuurreess  

As at October 31 

LLiisstteedd  aassssoocciiaatteess(2)   
  TMX Group Limited(3) 
  Fiera Capital Corporation(4) 

UUnnlliisstteedd  aassssoocciiaatteess  
   NSIA Participations(5) 
  Other 

Business 
segment 

Other 
Wealth Management 

USSF&I 

22001199  
CCaarrrryyiinngg  
vvaalluuee   

2018 (1) 
Carrying 
value 

227733    
−−    
227733    

−−    
111122    
111122    
338855    

264 
140 
404 

140 
101 
241 
645 

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 

During fiscal 2018, the Bank had disposed of its entire interest in an unlisted joint venture. 
The fair value of investments in associates based on quoted prices in active markets was $544 million as at October 31, 2019 ($611 million as at October 31, 2018). 
The Bank exercises significant influence over TMX Group Limited mainly through its equity interest, debt financing, and presence on TMX Group Limited’s board of directors. As at October 31, 
2019, the Bank’s ownership interest in TMX Group Limited was 8.5%. 

(4)  On  May  9, 2019,  through  one  of  its  subsidiaries,  the  Bank  disposed  of  10,680,000 Class  A  subordinate  voting  shares  of  Fiera Capital  Corporation  (Fiera  Capital)  at  a  per-share  price  of 
$12.00 for gross proceeds of $128 million. Before the transaction, the Bank’s investment in Fiera Capital stood at 18% and was accounted for using the equity method. After the transaction, 
the Bank’s ownership percentage was 7%. A gain on disposal of Fiera Capital shares of $79 million, including a $31 million gain on remeasurement at fair value of the retained interest was 
recognized in the Non-interest income – Other item of the Consolidated Statement of Income for the year ended October 31, 2019 and reported in the Other heading of segment results. After 
the transaction, the Bank designated the 7% retained interest as a financial asset measured at fair value through other comprehensive income. As at October 31, 2019, the Bank’s ownership 
interest in Fiera Capital was 5.0%.  

(5)  On June 30, 2019, the Bank concluded that it had lost significant influence over NSIA Participations (NSIA), an associate entity in the Ivory Coast, and therefore ceased using the equity method 
to account for this investment. The Bank designated its investment in NSIA as a financial asset measured at fair value through other comprehensive income in an amount of $128 million. 
Following the fair value measurement, a $33 million loss was recorded in the Non-interest income – Other item of the Consolidated Statement of Income and reported in the Other heading of 
segment results. As at October 31, 2019, the Bank’s ownership interest in NSIA was 22.1%. 

As at October 31, 2019 and 2018, there were no significant restrictions limiting the ability of associates and joint ventures to transfer funds to the Bank in the 
form of dividends or to repay any loans or advances. Furthermore, the Bank has not made any specific commitment or contracted any contingent liability with 
respect to associates or joint ventures. 

TMX Group Limited 
TMX Group Limited is a Canadian corporation that directly or indirectly controls a number of entities that operate stock exchanges and clearing houses and 
provide clearing and settlement services. During the year ended October 31, 2019, TMX Group Limited paid $12 million in dividends to the Bank ($10 million for 
the year ended October 31, 2018). 

Fiera Capital Corporation (Fiera Capital) 
Fiera Capital is an independent Canadian investment management firm. During the year ended October 31, 2019, Fiera Capital paid $10 million in dividends to 
the Bank, of which $7 million as dividends from an investment in an associate ($13 million for the year ended October 31, 2018). 

NSIA Participations 
NSIA Participations is a financial group headquartered in Abidjan, Ivory Coast. During the fiscal years ended October 31, 2019 and 2018, NSIA Participations did 
not pay any dividends to the Bank. 

National Bank of Canada 

165

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
 
     
 
 
  
  
   
 
  
   
 
     
 
 
     
 
  
 
  
   
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Note 9 – Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures (cont.) 

The following table provides summarized financial information on the Bank’s listed associates. 

As at October 31 

BBaallaannccee  sshheeeett  
  Current assets 
  Non-current assets 
  Current liabilities 
  Non-current liabilities 

IInnccoommee  ssttaatteemmeenntt  
  Total revenues 
  Net income 
  Other comprehensive income (loss) 
  Comprehensive income 

22001199(1)  
TTMMXX  GGrroouupp  
LLiimmiitteedd  

3311,,009999
55,,221155
3311,,116644
11,,771111

881122
227700
((3388))
223322

TMX Group 
Limited 

Fiera Capital 
Corporation 

20,433
5,160
20,653
1,624

780
419
(23)
396

210
1,201
138
634

524
(2)
21
19

2018(1) 

Total 

20,643 
6,361 
20,791 
2,258 

1,304 
417 
(2) 
415 

(1) 

The balance sheet amounts are the balances reported in the unaudited financial statements as at September 30, 2019 and 2018, which are the most recent available, and the income statement 
amounts are based on the cumulative balances for the 12-month periods ended September 30, 2019 and 2018. 

The table below provides summarized financial information related to the Bank’s proportionate share in unlisted associates that are not individually significant.  

Year ended October 31 

Net income 
Other comprehensive income 
Comprehensive income 

(1) 

The amounts are based on the cumulative balances for the 12-month periods ended September 30, 2019 and 2018. 

22001199(1)   

2018(1)  

1122
11
1133

6 
− 
6 

166

6 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
   
 
    
 
 
 
 
 
  
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

NNoottee  1100  ––  PPrreemmiisseess  aanndd  EEqquuiippmmeenntt  

HHeeaadd  ooffffiiccee  
bbuuiillddiinngg  uunnddeerr  
ccoonnssttrruuccttiioonn(1)  

LLaanndd  

BBuuiillddiinnggss  

CCoommppuutteerr  
eeqquuiippmmeenntt  

EEqquuiippmmeenntt  
aanndd  ffuurrnniittuurree  

LLeeaasseehhoolldd  
iimmpprroovveemmeennttss  

17     
66     
(4)    

79   
11   
((1100))  
−−   
7700   

−
4488
−−
−−
4488

CCoosstt  
As at October 31, 2017 
  Acquisitions 
  Disposals 
  Fully amortized assets 
As at October 31, 2018 
  Acquisitions 
  Disposals(2) 
  Impairment losses(3) 
AAss  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199  

AAccccuummuullaatteedd  aammoorrttiizzaattiioonn  
As at October 31, 2017 
  Amortization for the year 
  Disposals 
  Fully amortized assets 
As at October 31, 2018 
  Amortization for the year 
  Disposals(2) 
  Impairment losses(3) 
AAss  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199  

Carrying value as at October 31, 2018 
CCaarrrryyiinngg  vvaalluuee  aass  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199  

79   
7700   

−
4488

255
6
(2)
(3)
256
44
((118855))
−−
7755

154
5
(1)
(3)
155
66
((110033))
−−
5588

101
1177

235
90
(4)
(1)
320
3399
−−
((3366))
332233

92
74
(5)
(1)
160
5577
−−
((2233))
119944

160
112299

278   
18   
(170)  
(8)  
118   
1188   
((2266))  
−−   
111100   

146   
16   
(99)  
(8)  
55   
1155   
((1133))  
−−   
5577   

63   
5533   

292
59
(1)
(10)
340
3344
((5522))
−−
332222

127
26
(1)
(10)
142
2277
((2200))
−−
114499

198
117733

TToottaall   

1,077   
239   
(181)  
(22)  
1,113   
114444    
((227733))   
((3366))   
994488    

519   
121   
(106)  
(22)  
512   
110055    
((113366))   
((2233))   
445588    

601   
449900    

As at October 31, 2019, contractual commitments related to the head office building under construction stood at $312 million and cover a period up to 2023. 

(1) 
(2)  On July 30, 2019, the Bank completed the sale of its head office land and building located at 600 De La Gauchetière Street West, Montreal, Quebec, Canada, for gross proceeds of $187 million. 
At the same time, the Bank entered into a four-year operating lease with the purchaser. This sale-leaseback transaction resulted in a gain of $50 million, which was recognized in the Non-
Interest Income – Other item of the Consolidated Statement of Income and reported in the Other heading of segment results. 
During the year ended October 31, 2019, the Bank decided to stop using certain computer equipment. Consequently, an amount of $13 million in impairment losses related to this equipment 
was recognized in the Non-interest expenses – Technology item of the Consolidated Statement of Income and reported in the Other heading of segment results.  

(3) 

AAsssseettss  LLeeaasseedd  UUnnddeerr  OOppeerraattiinngg  LLeeaasseess  

The Bank is a lessor under operating lease agreements for certain buildings. These leases have terms varying from one year to five years and do not contain any 
bargain purchase options or contingent rent. 

The following table breaks down the future minimum payments receivable under these operating leases. 

1 year or less 
Over 1 year to 5 years 
Over 5 years 

  AAss  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199  

22    
66    
11    
99    

National Bank of Canada 

167

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Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

NNoottee  1111  ––  GGooooddwwiillll  aanndd  IInnttaannggiibbllee  AAsssseettss    

GGooooddwwiillll    

The following table presents changes in the carrying amounts of goodwill by cash-generating unit (CGU) and by business segment for the years ended October 31, 
2019 and 2018. 

PPeerrssoonnaall  aanndd  
CCoommmmeerrcciiaall(1)  

WWeeaalltthh  
MMaannaaggeemmeenntt  

  FFiinnaanncciiaall  
MMaarrkkeettss(1)  

TThhiirrdd--PPaarrttyy  
SSoolluuttiioonnss(1)  

SSeeccuurriittiieess  
BBrrookkeerraaggee(1)  

MMaannaaggeedd  
SSoolluuttiioonnss(1)  

Balance as at October 31, 2017  
  Impact of foreign currency translation 
Balance as at October 31, 2018  
  Impact of foreign currency translation 
BBaallaannccee  aass  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199  

54 
−−  
54 
−−  
5544  

256 
−−  
256 
−−  
225566  

434 
−−  
434 
−−  
443344  

269 
−−  
269 
−−  
226699  

(1) 

Constitutes a CGU. 

CCrreeddiiggyy  
LLttdd..(1)  

AAddvvaanncceedd  
BBaannkk  ooff  AAssiiaa  
LLiimmiitteedd(1)  

235 
−   
235 
−−  
223355  

32 
1 
33 
−−  
3333  

129 
2 
131 
−−  
113311  

TToottaall  

959 
−−  
959 
−−  
995599  

UUSSSSFF&&II  

  TToottaall  

TToottaall    

161 
3   
164 
−−  
116644  

1,409 
3 
1,412 
−−  
11,,441122  

GGooooddwwiillll  IImmppaaiirrmmeenntt  TTeessttiinngg  aanndd  SSiiggnniiffiiccaanntt  AAssssuummppttiioonnss  
For impairment testing purposes, goodwill resulting from a business combination must be allocated, as of the acquisition date, to a CGU or a group of CGUs 
expected to benefit from the synergies of the business combination. Goodwill is tested for impairment annually or more frequently if events or circumstances 
indicate that the recoverable value of the CGU or group of CGUs may have fallen below its carrying amount. 

Goodwill was tested for impairment during the years ended October 31, 2019 and 2018, and no impairment loss was recognized. 

The recoverable value of a CGU or group of CGUs is based on the value in use that is calculated based on discounted pre-tax cash flows. Future pre-tax cash flows 
are estimated based on a five-year period, which is the reference period used for the  most recent financial forecasts approved by management. Cash flows 
beyond that period are extrapolated using a long-term growth rate. 

The discount rate used for each CGU or group of CGUs is calculated using the cost of debt financing and the cost related to the Bank’s equity. This rate corresponds 
to the Bank’s weighted average cost of capital and reflects the risk specific to the CGU. The long-term growth rate used in calculating discounted cash flow 
estimates  is  based  on  the  forecasted  growth  rate  plus  a  risk  premium.  The  rate  is  constant  over  the  entire  five-year  period  for  which  the  cash  flows  were 
determined. Growth rates are determined, among other factors, based on past growth rates, economic trends, inflation, competition and the impact of the Bank’s 
strategic initiatives. As at October 31, 2019, for each CGU or CGU group, the discount rate used was 12.9% (12.8% as at October 31, 2018) and the long-term 
growth rate was between 2% and 5%, depending on the CGU, as at October 31, 2019 and 2018. 

Estimating  a  CGU’s  value  in  use  requires  significant  judgment  regarding  the  inputs  used  in  applying  the  discounted  cash  flow  method.  The  Bank  conducts 
sensitivity analyses by varying the after-tax discount rate upward by 1% and the terminal growth rates down by 1%. Such sensitivity analyses demonstrate that 
a reasonable change in assumptions would not result in a CGU’s carrying value exceeding its value in use. 

168

168 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
   
 
  
  
        
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
  
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

IInnttaannggiibbllee  AAsssseettss    

IInnddeeffiinniittee  uusseeffuull  lliiffee  

FFiinniittee  uusseeffuull  lliiffee    

TToottaall   

MMaannaaggeemmeenntt  
ccoonnttrraaccttss(1)  

TTrraaddeemmaarrkk  

TToottaall  

IInntteerrnnaallllyy--  
ggeenneerraatteedd  
ssooffttwwaarree(2)  

OOtthheerr  
ssooffttwwaarree  

OOtthheerr  
iinnttaannggiibbllee  
aasssseettss  

CCoosstt  
As at October 31, 2017 
  Acquisitions 
  Fully amortized intangible assets 
As at October 31, 2018 
  Acquisitions 
  Impairment losses(3) 
  Fully amortized intangible assets 
AAss  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199  

AAccccuummuullaatteedd  aammoorrttiizzaattiioonn  
As at October 31, 2017 
  Amortization for the year 
  Fully amortized intangible assets 
As at October 31, 2018 
  Amortization for the year 
  Impairment losses(3) 
  Fully amortized intangible assets 
AAss  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199  

161   
−   

161   
−−     
−−     

116611     

11   
−   

11   
−−     
−−     

1111     

172   
−   

172   
−−     
−−     

117722     

1,267   
242   
−   
1,509   
332299     
((8855))    
((5500))    
11,,770033     

295   
149   
−   
444   
119944     
((4411))    
((5500))    
554477     

Carrying value as at October 31, 2018 
CCaarrrryyiinngg  vvaalluuee  aass  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199  

161   
116611     

11   
1111     

172   
117722     

1,065   
11,,115566     

115   
13   
(2)  
126   
3300     
−−     
−−     
115566     

61   
23   
(2)  
82   
2233     
−−     
−−     
110055     

44   
5511     

108   
1   
(6)  
103   
−−     
−−     
−−     
110033     

67   
9   
(6)  
70   
66     
−−     
−−     
7766     

33   
2277     

TToottaall  

1,490   
256   
(8)  
1,738   
335599     
((8855))    
((5500))    
11,,996622     

423   
181   
(8)  
596   
222233     
((4411))    
((5500))    
772288     

1,662   
256   
(8)  
1,910   
335599    
((8855))   
((5500))   
22,,113344    

423   
181   
(8)  
596   
222233    
((4411))   
((5500))   
772288    

1,142   
11,,223344     

1,314   
11,,440066    

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 

For annual impairment testing purposes, management contracts are allocated to the Managed Solutions CGU.  
The remaining amortization period for significant internally-generated software is four years. 
The Bank wrote off certain technology developments due to obsolescence and decided to discontinue them. The recoverable amount of those technology developments was estimated to be 
nil. During the year ended October 31, 2019, an amount of $44 million in impairment losses was recognized in the Non-interest expenses – Technology item of the Consolidated Statement of 
Income and reported in the Other heading of segment results. 

NNoottee  1122  ––  OOtthheerr  AAsssseettss      

As at October 31 

Receivables, prepaid expenses and other items 
Interest and dividends receivable 
Due from clients, dealers and brokers 
Defined benefit asset (Note 23) 
Deferred tax assets (Note 24) 
Current tax assets 
Reinsurance assets 

22001199  

2018 

669966
662233
557700
3388
556622
221166
3333
22,,773388

775 
549 
1,255 
64 
324 
113 
31 
3,111 

National Bank of Canada 

169

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Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

NNoottee  1133  ––  DDeeppoossiittss 

As at October 31 

Personal 
Business and government 
Deposit-taking institutions 

OOnn  ddeemmaanndd(1)  

AAfftteerr  nnoottiiccee(2)  

FFiixxeedd  tteerrmm(3)  

44,,332255  
3388,,668800  
11,,770077  
4444,,771122  

2277,,227711
2211,,882233
11,,331144
5500,,440088

2288,,446699   
6644,,776633   
11,,221144   
9944,,444466   

22001199    

TToottaall  

6600,,006655
112255,,226666
44,,223355
118899,,556666

2018  

Total 

55,688   
110,321   
4,821   
170,830   

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 

Demand deposits are deposits for which the Bank does not have the right to require notice of withdrawal and consist essentially of deposits in chequing accounts.  
Notice deposits are deposits for which the Bank may legally require a notice of withdrawal and consist mainly of deposits in savings accounts.  
Fixed-term deposits are deposits that can be withdrawn by the holder on a specified date and include term deposits, guaranteed investment certificates, savings accounts and plans, covered 
bonds, and similar instruments.  

The Deposits – Business and government item includes, among other items, covered bonds, as described below and includes a $3.5 billion amount of deposits 
as at October 31, 2019 that are subject to the bank bail-in conversion regulations issued by the Government of Canada. These regulations provide certain powers 
to the Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation (CDIC), notably the power to convert certain eligible Bank shares and liabilities into common shares should the 
Bank become non-viable.  

CCoovveerreedd  BBoonnddss  
NBC Covered Bond Guarantor (Legislative) Limited Partnership 
In December 2013, the Bank established the covered bond legislative program under which covered bonds are issued. It therefore created NBC Covered Bond 
Guarantor (Legislative) Limited Partnership (the Guarantor) to guarantee payment of the principal and interest owed to the bondholders. The Bank sold uninsured 
residential mortgages to the Guarantor and granted it loans to facilitate the acquisition of these assets. During the year ended October 31, 2019, an amount of 
1.0 billion euros in covered bonds matured, and the Bank issued covered bonds in amounts of US$1.3 billion and 750 million euros (US$750 million in covered 
bonds  matured,  and  the  Bank  issued  covered  bonds  in  an  amount  of  1.5  billion  euros  during  the  year  ended  October  31,  2018).  The  covered  bonds 
totalled $9.5 billion  as  at  October 31,  2019  ($8.3 billion  as  at  October 31,  2018).  For  additional  information,  see  Note  27  to  these  consolidated  financial 
statements. 

The Bank has limited access to the assets owned by this structured entity according to the terms of the agreements that apply to this transaction. The assets 
owned  by  this  entity  totalled  $16.5 billion  as  at  October 31,  2019  ($13.2 billion  as  at  October 31,  2018),  of  which  $16.2  billion  ($12.9 billion  as  at 
October 31, 2018) is presented in Residential mortgage loans on the Bank’s Consolidated Balance Sheet.  

NNoottee  1144  ––  OOtthheerr  LLiiaabbiilliittiieess  

As at October 31 

Accounts payable and accrued expenses 
Subsidiaries’ debts to third parties 
Interest and dividends payable 
Due to clients, dealers and brokers 
Defined benefit liability (Note 23) 
Allowances for credit losses — Off-balance-sheet commitments (Note 7) 
Deferred tax liabilities (Note 24) 
Current tax liabilities 
Insurance liabilities 
Other items(1)(2)(3) 

22001199  

11,,888833
11,,222255
11,,006611
554488
337744
7744
55
114444
2244
883399
66,,117777

2018 

1,790   
1,033   
1,012 
796 
186 
54 
25 
48 
50 
830 
5,824 

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 

As at October 31, 2019, Other items included $6 million in restructuring provisions ($14 million as at October 31, 2018). 
As at October 31, 2019, Other items included $19 million in litigation provisions ($9 million as at October 31, 2018). 
During the year ended October 31, 2019, the Bank reviewed all of the leases for its corporate buildings and recorded $45 million in provisions for onerous contracts in the Non-interest 
expenses – Occupancy item of the Consolidated Statement of Income and reported in the Other heading of segment results. As at October 31, 2019, other items included $48 million in 
provisions for onerous contracts ($3 million as at October 31, 2018). 

170

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National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

NNoottee  1155  ––  SSuubboorrddiinnaatteedd  DDeebbtt  

The subordinated debt represents direct unsecured obligations, in the form of notes and debentures, to the Bank’s debt holders. The rights of the Bank’s note 
and debenture holders are subordinate to the claims of depositors and certain other creditors. Approval from OSFI is required before the Bank can redeem its 
subordinated notes and debentures in whole or in part. 

On February 1, 2018, the Bank had issued medium-term notes for a total amount of $750 million, bearing interest at 3.183% and maturing on February 1, 2028.  

As at October 31 

22001199  

2018 

MMaattuurriittyy  ddaattee  

IInntteerreesstt  rraattee   CChhaarraacctteerriissttiiccss    

February 
February 

2028 
2087 

3.183%(1)   Redeemable(2) 
Variable(3)   Redeemable at the Bank’s option since February 28, 1993  

Fair value hedge adjustment 
Unamortized issuance costs(4) 
TToottaall  

775500 
99 
775599 
1155 
((11)) 
777733 

750   
9 
759   
(10)  
(2)  
747 

(1) 

Bearing interest at a rate of 3.183%, payable semi-annually until February 1, 2023, and thereafter bearing interest at a floating rate equal to the rate on three-month CDOR plus 0.72%, payable 
quarterly. 

(2)  With the prior approval of OSFI, the Bank may, at its option, redeem these notes as of February 1, 2023, in whole or in part, at their nominal value plus accrued and unpaid interest. These 
notes contain non-viability contingent capital (NVCC) provisions and qualify for the purposes of calculating regulatory capital under Basel III. In the case of a trigger event as defined by OSFI, 
each note will be automatically and immediately converted, on a full and permanent basis, without the consent of the holder, into a specified number of common shares of the Bank as 
determined using an automatic conversion formula with a multiplier of 1.5 and a conversion price based on the greater of: (i) a floor price of $5.00; (ii) the current market price of common 
shares, which represents the volume weighted average price of common shares for the ten trading days ending on the trading day preceding the date of the trigger event. If the common shares 
are not listed on an exchange when this price is being established, the price will be the fair value reasonably determined by the Bank’s Board. The number of shares issued is determined by 
dividing the par value of the note (plus accrued and unpaid interest on such note) by the conversion price and then applying the multiplier. 
Debentures denominated in foreign currency totalling US$7 million as at October 31, 2019 (2018: US$7 million) and bearing interest at a rate of 1/8% above six-month LIBOR. 
The unamortized costs related to the issuance of the subordinated debt represent the initial cost, net of accumulated amortization, calculated using the effective interest rate method. 

(3) 
(4) 

NNoottee  1166  –– DDeerriivvaattiivvee  FFiinnaanncciiaall  IInnssttrruummeennttss  

Derivative financial instruments are financial contracts whose value is derived from an underlying interest rate, exchange rate, equity price, commodity price, 
credit spread or index. 

The main types of derivative financial instruments used are presented below. 

FFoorrwwaarrddss  aanndd  FFuuttuurreess  
Forwards and futures are contractual obligations to buy or deliver a specified amount of currency, interest rate, commodity, or financial instrument on a specified 
future date at a specified price. Forwards are tailor-made agreements transacted in the over-the-counter market. Futures are traded on organized exchanges and 
are subject to cash margining calculated daily by clearing houses. 

SSwwaappss  
Swaps are over-the-counter contracts in which two parties agree to exchange cash flows. The Bank uses the following types of swap contracts: 

  Cross-currency swaps are transactions in which counterparties exchange fixed-rate interest payments and principal payments in different currencies. 
 

Interest rate swaps are transactions in which counterparties exchange fixed and floating rate interest payments based on the notional principal value in the 
same currency. 

  Commodity swaps are transactions in which counterparties exchange fixed and floating rate payments based on the notional principal value of a commodity. 
Equity swaps are transactions in which counterparties agree to exchange the return on one equity or group of equities for a payment based on a benchmark 
 
interest rate. 

  Credit default swaps are transactions in which one of the parties agrees to pay returns to the other party so that the latter can make a payment if a credit 

event occurs. 

OOppttiioonnss    
Options are agreements between two parties in which the writer of the option grants the buyer the right, but not the obligation, to buy or sell, either at a specified 
date or dates or at any time prior to a predetermined expiry date, a specific amount of currency, commodity, or financial instrument at an agreed-upon price upon 
the sale of the option. The writer receives a premium for the sale of this instrument. 

National Bank of Canada 

171

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
   
 
 
  
 
  
     
  
  
     
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Note 16  ––  Derivative Financial Instruments (cont.) 

NNoottiioonnaall  AAmmoouunnttss(1) 

As at October 31 

IInntteerreesstt  rraattee  ccoonnttrraaccttss  
OOTTCC  ccoonnttrraaccttss  
Forward rate agreements 
  Not settled by central counterparties 
  Settled by central counterparties 
Swaps 
  Not settled by central counterparties 
  Settled by central counterparties 
Options purchased 
Options written 

EExxcchhaannggee--ttrraaddeedd  ccoonnttrraaccttss  
Futures 
  Long positions 
  Short positions 
Options purchased 
Options written 

FFoorreeiiggnn  eexxcchhaannggee  ccoonnttrraaccttss  
OOTTCC  ccoonnttrraaccttss  
Forwards 
Swaps 
Options purchased 
Options written 

EExxcchhaannggee--ttrraaddeedd  ccoonnttrraaccttss  
Futures 
  Long positions 
  Short positions 

EEqquuiittyy,,  ccoommmmooddiittyy  aanndd  
   ccrreeddiitt  ddeerriivvaattiivvee  ccoonnttrraaccttss(2)  
OOTTCC  ccoonnttrraaccttss  
Forwards 
Swaps 
  Not settled by central counterparties 
  Settled by central counterparties 
Options purchased 
Options written 

EExxcchhaannggee--ttrraaddeedd  ccoonnttrraaccttss  
Futures 
  Long positions 
  Short positions 
Options purchased 
Options written 

33  mmoonntthhss  
oorr  lleessss  

OOvveerr  33  
mmoonntthhss  ttoo  
  1122  mmoonntthhss  

OOvveerr  11  
yyeeaarr  ttoo  
55  yyeeaarrss  

OOvveerr  
55  yyeeaarrss  

TToottaall  
ccoonnttrraaccttss  

CCoonnttrraaccttss  hheelldd  
ffoorr  ttrraaddiinngg  
ppuurrppoosseess  

CCoonnttrraaccttss  
ddeessiiggnnaatteedd  
aass  hheeddggeess  

Total 
contracts  

TTeerrmm  ttoo  mmaattuurriittyy  

22001199  

2018  

44,,224411 
−− 

88,,883311 
115577,,775533 
2288 
111144 
117700,,996677 

2255,,557766 
99,,002200 
1155,,440000 
116655 
5500,,116611 

1122,,996600 
114499,,881111 
66,,007755 
66,,001188 
117744,,886644 

8800 
3355 
111155 

2244 

4455,,995555 
222200 
226699 
8833 
4466,,555511 

55,,115533 
1111,,886655 
22,,990022 
22,,222244 
2222,,114444 
446644,,880022 

11,,002288
117744

1155,,331155
115577,,663388
11,,777777
220077
117766,,113399

88,,117799
77,,775500
22,,669988
11,,669988
2200,,332255

88,,773311
6611,,666600
66,,006655
66,,443344
8822,,889900

−−
−−
−−

−−
558800

6600,,776655
220077,,882244
33,,666688
11,,225533
227744,,009900

778855
44,,447799
−−
−−
55,,226644

66,,009900
7755,,779911
11,,551111
11,,111144
8844,,550066

−−
−−
−−

−−
−−

4422,,446622
6666,,661122
22,,998899
44,,002211
111166,,008844

−−
−−
−−
−−
−−

11,,116677
2255,,662222
−−
−−
2266,,778899

55,,226699
775544

112277,,337733
558899,,882277
88,,446622
55,,559955
773377,,228800

3344,,554400
2211,,224499
1188,,009988
11,,886633
7755,,775500

2288,,994488
331122,,888844
1133,,665511
1133,,556666
336699,,004499

−−
−−
−−

8800
3355
111155

6611

11,,555511

119977

11,,883333

334422
22,,002266
22
111177
22,,668844

7744,,440066
66,,445544
11,,110088
11,,335588
8855,,115599

2200,,885599
115544
4400
117744
2211,,228888

331144
11,,660055
330055
770033
22,,992277
330033,,556699

77,,225500
44,,005544
779977
998844
1144,,663366

339900
777777
222200
994422
22,,332299
338800,,882255

55,,226699 
775544 

112244,,883322 
555522,,777744 
88,,225522 
44,,550066 
669966,,338877 

3344,,554400 
2211,,224499 
1188,,009988 
11,,886633 
7755,,775500 

2288,,994488 
229955,,111100 
1133,,665511 
1133,,556666 
335511,,227755 

8800 
3355 
111155 

11,,883333 

7744,,440066 
66,,445544 
11,,110088 
11,,335588 
8855,,115599 

−−
−−

22,,554411
3377,,005533
221100
11,,008899
4400,,889933

−−
−−
−−
−−
−−

−−
1177,,777744
−−
−−
1177,,777744

−−
−−
−−

−−

−−
−−
−−
−−
−−

1,680 
2,172 

129,201 
408,729 
5,438 
2,018 
549,238 

27,498 
26,556 
26,189 
− 
80,243 

32,178 
199,911 
12,322 
11,115 
255,526 

59 
238 
297 

1,976 

46,874 
2,438 
1,523 
1,436 
54,247 

7,699 
11,691 
2,243 
3,468 
25,101 
964,652 

115588
−−
−−
44
116622
114455,,771199

66,,001155
1144,,224477
33,,442277
33,,887733
2277,,556622
11,,229944,,991155

66,,001155 
1144,,224477 
33,,442277 
33,,887733 
2277,,556622 
11,,223366,,224488 

−−
−−
−−
−−
−−
5588,,666677

(1) 

(2) 

Notional amounts are not presented in assets or liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. They represent the reference amount of the contract to which a rate or price is applied to 
determine the amount of cash flows to be exchanged. 
Includes precious metal contracts. 

172

2 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

CCrreeddiitt  RRiisskk      
Credit risk on derivative financial instruments is the risk of financial loss that  the Bank will have to  assume if a counterparty fails to honour its contractual 
obligations. Credit risk related to derivative financial instruments is subject to the same credit approval, credit limit and credit monitoring standards as those 
applied to the Bank’s other credit transactions. Consequently, the Bank evaluates the creditworthiness of counterparties and manages the size of the portfolios 
as well as the diversification and maturity profiles of these financial instruments. 

The Bank limits the credit risk of over-the-counter contracts by dealing with creditworthy counterparties and entering into contracts that provide for the exchange 
of  collateral  between  parties  where  the  fair  value  of  the  outstanding  transactions  exceeds  an  agreed  threshold.  The  Bank  also  negotiates  master  netting 
agreements  that  provide  for  the  simultaneous  close-out  and  settling  of  all  transactions  with  a  given  counterparty  in  the  event  of  default,  insolvency,  or 
bankruptcy. However, overall exposure to credit risk, reduced through master netting agreements, may change substantially after the balance sheet date because 
it is affected by all transactions subject to a contract as well as by changes in the market rates of the underlying instruments. 

The Bank also uses financial intermediaries to have access to established clearing houses in order to minimize the settlement risk arising from financial derivative 
transactions. In some cases, the Bank has direct access to clearing houses for settling derivative financial instruments. In addition, certain derivative financial 
instruments traded over the counter are settled directly or indirectly by central counterparties. 

In  the  case  of  exchange-traded  contracts,  exposure  to  credit  risk  is  limited  because  these  transactions  are  standardized  contracts  executed  on  established 
exchanges,  each  of  which  is  associated  with  a  well-capitalized  clearing  house  that  assumes  the  obligations  of  both  counterparties  and  guarantees  their 
performance obligations. All exchange-traded contracts are subject to initial margins and daily settlement. 

TTeerrmmss  UUsseedd  
Replacement Cost 
Replacement cost is the Bank’s maximum credit risk associated with derivative financial instruments as at the Consolidated Balance Sheet date. This amount is 
the positive fair value of all derivative financial instruments, before all master netting agreements and collateral held. 

Credit Risk Equivalent 
The credit risk equivalent amount is the total replacement cost plus an amount representing the potential future credit risk exposure, as outlined in OSFI’s Capital 
Adequacy Requirements Guideline. 

Risk-Weighted Amount 
The risk-weighted amount is determined by applying the OSFI guidance to the credit risk equivalent. 

CCrreeddiitt  RRiisskk  EExxppoossuurree  ooff  tthhee  DDeerriivvaattiivvee  FFiinnaanncciiaall  IInnssttrruummeenntt  PPoorrttffoolliioo  

As at October 31 

Interest rate contracts 
Foreign exchange contracts 
Equity, commodity and credit derivative contracts 

Impact of master netting agreements 

RReeppllaacceemmeenntt  
ccoosstt  

CCrreeddiitt  rriisskk  
eeqquuiivvaalleenntt(1)  

22,,660033
33,,110033
22,,442233
88,,112299
((33,,441155))
44,,771144

66,,668855
44,,557700
22,,991177
1144,,117722

1144,,117722

22001199  
RRiisskk--  
wweeiigghhtteedd  
aammoouunntt(1)  

996688
11,,551155
11,,111199
33,,660022

33,,660022

Replacement 
cost(2) 

Credit risk 
equivalent 

1,943 
3,533 
3,034 
8,510 
(3,151) 
5,359 

7,961
11,043
6,919
25,923
(8,300)
17,623

2018  
Risk- 
weighted 
amount  

649   
1,853   
673   
3,175   
(863)  
2,312   

(1) 
(2) 

After application of the Standardized Approach for Measuring Counterparty Credit Risk on November 1, 2018, the amounts are presented net of the Impact of master netting agreements. 
As at October 31, 2018, the total positive fair value of exchange-traded contracts amounting to $98 million was excluded. 

CCrreeddiitt  RRiisskk  EExxppoossuurree  ooff  tthhee  DDeerriivvaattiivvee  FFiinnaanncciiaall  IInnssttrruummeenntt  PPoorrttffoolliioo  bbyy  CCoouunntteerrppaarrttyy  

As at October 31 

OECD(1) governments 
Banks of OECD member countries 
Other  

(1)  Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.   

RReeppllaacceemmeenntt  
ccoosstt  

11,,004488
667700
22,,999966
44,,771144

22001199  
CCrreeddiitt  rriisskk  
eeqquuiivvaalleenntt  

22,,007777 
33,,772200 
88,,337755 
1144,,117722 

Replacement 
cost 

1,051
816
3,492
5,359

2018  
Credit risk 
equivalent 

1,855 
4,197 
11,571 
17,623 

National Bank of Canada 

173

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
  
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
   
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Note 16  ––  Derivative Financial Instruments (cont.)  

FFaaiirr  VVaalluuee  ooff  DDeerriivvaattiivvee  FFiinnaanncciiaall  IInnssttrruummeennttss    

As at October 31 

CCoonnttrraaccttss  hheelldd  ffoorr  ttrraaddiinngg  ppuurrppoosseess  
IInntteerreesstt  rraattee  ccoonnttrraaccttss  
  Forwards 
  Swaps 
  Options 

FFoorreeiiggnn  eexxcchhaannggee  ccoonnttrraaccttss  
  Forwards 
  Swaps 
  Options 

EEqquuiittyy,,  ccoommmmooddiittyy  aanndd  ccrreeddiitt  ddeerriivvaattiivvee  ccoonnttrraaccttss  
  Forwards 
  Swaps 
  Options 

Total – Contracts held for trading purposes 

CCoonnttrraaccttss  ddeessiiggnnaatteedd  aass  hheeddggeess  
IInntteerreesstt  rraattee  ccoonnttrraaccttss  
  Forwards 
  Swaps 
  Options 

FFoorreeiiggnn  eexxcchhaannggee  ccoonnttrraaccttss  
  Forwards 
  Swaps 
  Options 

EEqquuiittyy,,  ccoommmmooddiittyy  aanndd  ccrreeddiitt  ddeerriivvaattiivvee  ccoonnttrraaccttss  
  Forwards 
  Swaps 
  Options 

Total – Contracts designated as hedges 
  Designated as fair value hedges 
  Designated as cash flow hedges 
  Designated as a hedge of a net investment in a  

foreign operation 

TToottaall  ffaaiirr  vvaalluuee  
Impact of master netting agreements 

NNoottee  1177  ––  HHeeddggiinngg  AAccttiivviittiieess    

PPoossiittiivvee  

NNeeggaattiivvee  

3366
11,,880088
9977
11,,994411

229988
22,,661188
112277
33,,004433

11,,005500
11,,003300
334433
22,,442233
77,,440077

−−
666622
−−
666622

−−
6600
−−
6600

−−
−−
−−
−−
772222
446611
226611

5599
11,,774422
7700
11,,887711

118800
22,,226633
110099
22,,555522

7722
11,,443399
440055
11,,991166
66,,333399

−−
225522
220066
445588

−−
5555
−−
5555

−−
−−
−−
−−
551133
332200
119933

−−
88,,112299
((33,,441155))
44,,771144

−−
66,,885522
((33,,441155))
33,,443377

22001199  

NNeett  

((2233))
6666
2277
7700

111188
335555
1188
449911

997788
((440099))
((6622))
550077
11,,006688

−−
441100
((220066))
220044

−−
55
−−
55

−−
−−
−−
−−
220099
114411
6688

−−
11,,227777
−−
11,,227777

Positive 

Negative 

16 
1,392 
61 
1,469 

428 
2,892 
157 
3,477 

854 
1,929 
336 
3,119 
8,065 

− 
487 
− 
487 

− 
56 
− 
56 

− 
− 
− 
− 
543 
197 
346 

10
1,486
41
1,537

243
1,956
139
2,338

62
997
431
1,490
5,365

−
403
81
484

−
187
−
187

−
−
−
−
671
476
195

− 
8,608 
(3,151) 
5,457 

−
6,036
(3,151)
2,885

2018 

Net 

6 
(94) 
20 
(68) 

185 
936 
18 
1,139 

792 
932 
(95) 
1,629 
2,700 

− 
84 
(81) 
3 

− 
(131) 
− 
(131) 

− 
− 
− 
− 
(128) 
(279) 
151 

− 
2,572 
− 
2,572 

The Bank’s market risk exposure, risk management objectives, policies and procedures, and risk measurement methods are presented in the Risk Management 
section of the MD&A for the year ended October 31, 2019. 

The Bank has elected, as permitted under IFRS 9, to continue applying the hedge accounting requirements of IAS 39. Some of the tables present information on 
currencies, specifically, the Canadian dollar (CAD), the Chinese yuan renminbi (CNH), the Hong Kong dollar (HKD), the U.S. dollar (USD), the euro (EUR), the pound 
sterling (GBP) and the Brazilian real (BRL).  

174

4 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
  
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

The following table shows the notional amounts and the weighted average rates by term to maturity of the designated derivative instruments and their fair value 
by type of hedging relationship. 

As at October 31 

OOvveerr  
11  yyeeaarr  
ttoo  22  
yyeeaarrss  

11  yyeeaarr  
oorr  lleessss  

TTeerrmm  ttoo  mmaattuurriittyy  

OOvveerr  22  
yyeeaarrss  ttoo  
55  yyeeaarrss  

OOvveerr  
55  yyeeaarrss  

22001199  

FFaaiirr  vvaalluuee  

2018 

Fair value 

TToottaall  

AAsssseettss   LLiiaabbiilliittiieess  

Total 

Assets  Liabilities 

FFaaiirr  vvaalluuee  hheeddggeess  
IInntteerreesstt  rraattee  rriisskk  
  Interest rate swaps 
   Notional amount – LIBOR reform(1) 
   Notional amount – Other 
     Average fixed interest rate – Pay fixed 
   Average fixed interest rate – Receive fixed 

  Cross-currency swaps 
   Notional amount – LIBOR reform(1) 
   Notional amount – Other 
   Average CAD-CNH exchange rate 
   Average CAD-HKD exchange rate 

  Options 
   Notional amount – LIBOR reform(1) 
     Notional amount – Other 
    Average fixed interest rate – Purchased 
   Average fixed interest rate – Written 

CCaasshh  ffllooww  hheeddggeess  
IInntteerreesstt  rraattee  rriisskk  
  Interest rate swaps 
   Notional amount – LIBOR reform(1) 
   Notional amount – Other 
     Average fixed interest rate – Pay fixed 
   Average fixed interest rate – Receive fixed 

  Cross-currency swaps 
   Notional amount – LIBOR reform(1) 
   Notional amount – Other 
   Average CAD-USD exchange rate 
   Average USD-EUR exchange rate 
   Average USD-GBP exchange rate 

EEqquuiittyy  pprriiccee  rriisskk  
   Equity swaps 
     Notional amount 
    Average price 

HHeeddggeess  ooff  nneett  iinnvveessttmmeennttss    
  iinn  ffoorreeiiggnn  ooppeerraattiioonnss(2)  
FFoorreeiiggnn  eexxcchhaannggee  rriisskk  
   Cross-currency swaps 
   Notional amount 
   Average CAD-USD exchange rate 
   Average USD-BRL exchange rate 
   Average USD-HKD exchange rate 

11,,006611   

33,,338811

555544
66,,554411

11,,776688
33,,660000

22,,332222
1144,,558833

−−  %% 
00..88  %% 

11..77 %%
00..88 %%

22..00 %%
22..22 %%

11..99 %%
22..66 %%

11..99 %%
22..11 %%

111122 
$$  00..11886644 
−− 

331144 
00..11  %% 
22..44  %% 

11,,448877 

−−
111166
−−
$$ 00..11662211

−−
−−
−−

−−
−−
−−
−−

−−
222288
$$ 00..11886644
$$ 00..11662211

3355
00..11 %%
22..44 %%

4400
2222
((00..88)) %%
22..77 %%

339955
449933

−− %%
22..88 %%

443355
886644
00..11 %%
22..77 %%

445511   

111144     14,019

193

357  

1.8 %
2.2 %

1100   

−−    

888

4

38  

 $  0.1955
 $  0.1621

−−   

220066    

1,454

−

81  

− %
2.7 %

33,,441166

77,,227733

66,,225566

1188,,443322

446611 

332200 

16,361

197

476

22,,774400   

22..11  %% 
11..99  %% 

771177  
22..11 %%
−− %%

11,,118855
  1144,,886600  

−−

33,,118877  

11,,118855
  2211,,550044  

22..00 %%
00..77 %%

22..22 %%
00..77 %%

22..00 %%
00..88 %%

221111   

113388     17,419  

294

46  

2.1 %
0.8 %

5500   

5555     12,144  

52

149  

11,,443355  

33,,003344   

22,,330022  
−−  
$$  11..33007766    $$  11..33224433   $$ 11..33110011   $$ 11..22883388  
$$  11..22227788    $$  11..11113311   $$ 11..11335511   $$ 11..22229955  
−−  

  1100,,776655  
−−  

  $$  11..22992211  

−−   

−−  

  1133,,006677  
44,,446699  
$$ 11..33007744  
$$ 11..11662266  
$$ 11..22992211  

 $  1.2976  
 $  1.1742  
 $  1.3012  

−−   
−−   
55,,777744   

−−  
−−  

−−  
−−  

−−  
−−  

−−  
−−  

−−   

−−    

109  
 $  62.42  

−

−  

22,,115522

2266,,881100

55,,448899

4400,,222255

226611   

119933     29,672

346

195  

1100   
$$  11..33228866   
−−   
$$  00..11227777   
1100   
77,,227711   

−−
−−  
−−  
−−  
−−  

−−
−−  
−−  
−−  
−−  

−−
−−  
−−  
−−  
−−  

1100  
$$ 11..33228866  
−−  
$$ 00..11227777  
1100  

55,,556688

3344,,008833

1111,,774455

5588,,666677

−−   

−−   
772222   

−−    

15  
 $  1.2929  
 $  0.2508  
 $  0.1281  
15  

−−    

551133     46,048

−

−  

−
543

−  
671   

(1) 

(2) 

The benchmark interest rate reform is a global initiative led and coordinated by central banks and governments around the world, including those in Canada. In July 2017, the UK Financial 
Conduct Committee (FCA) stated that, after 2021, it will no longer compel banks to submit rates used for the calculation of the London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR). The Bank has formed a 
team  that  is  conducting  a  Bank-wide  impact  analysis.  It  is  currently  inventorying  all  of  the  Bank’s  contractual  arrangements  linked  to  LIBOR,  assessing  the  Bank’s  exposures  to  LIBOR 
instruments and identifying impacts on the Bank’s products, systems and processes with the intention of minimizing the impacts through appropriate mitigating actions. The Bank is also 
actively involved in industry working groups and will continue to monitor industry progress.  
As at October 31, 2019, the Bank also designated $958 million in foreign currency deposits denominated in U.S. dollars as net investment hedging instruments ($1,035 million in foreign 
currency deposits denominated in U.S. dollars and euros as net investment hedging instruments as at October 31, 2018). 

National Bank of Canada 

175

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
    
     
     
     
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
  
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
     
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
     
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
     
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
     
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
     
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
      
  
  
 
  
  
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
   
 
  
 
 
 
     
 
  
 
  
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Note 17 – Hedging Activities (cont.) 

FFaaiirr  VVaalluuee  HHeeddggeess  

Fair value hedge transactions consist of using derivative financial instruments (interest rate swaps and options) to hedge changes in the fair value of a financial 
asset or financial liability caused by interest rate fluctuations. Changes in the fair values of the derivative financial instruments used as hedging instruments 
offset  changes  in  the  fair  value  of  the  hedged  items.  The  Bank  applies  this  strategy  mainly  to  portfolios  of  securities  measured  at  fair  value  through  other 
comprehensive income, fixed-rate deposits, liabilities related to transferred receivables, and subordinated debt. 

In addition, when a fixed-rate asset or liability is denominated in a foreign currency, the Bank sometimes uses cross-currency swaps to hedge the associated 
foreign exchange risk. The Bank may designate a cross-currency swap to exchange the fixed-rate foreign currency for the functional currency at a floating rate in 
a single hedging relationship addressing both interest rate risk and foreign exchange risk. In certain cases, given that interest rate risk and foreign exchange 
risk are hedged in a single hedging relationship, the information below does not distinguish between interest rate risk and the combination of interest rate risk 
and foreign exchange risk as two separate risk categories. The Bank applies this strategy mainly to foreign currency fixed-rate deposits. 

Regression analysis is used to test hedge effectiveness and determine the hedge ratio. For fair value hedges, the main source of potential hedge ineffectiveness 
is a circumstance where the critical terms of the hedging instrument and the hedged item are not closely aligned. 

The following tables show amounts related to hedged items as well as the results of the fair value hedges. 

CCaarrrryyiinngg  vvaalluuee  
ooff  hheeddggeedd  
iitteemmss  

88,,334444  
44,,666677  
33,,666633  
775522  

Carrying value 
of hedged 
items 

3,315 
6,367 
4,482 
737 

AAss  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199    
CCuummuullaattiivvee  
aaddjjuussttmmeennttss  
ffrroomm  
ddiissccoonnttiinnuueedd  
hheeddggeess    

CCuummuullaattiivvee  
hheeddggee  
aaddjjuussttmmeennttss  
ffrroomm  aaccttiivvee  
hheeddggeess  

YYeeaarr  eennddeedd  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199    

GGaaiinnss  ((lloosssseess))  
oonn  tthhee  hheeddggeedd  
iitteemmss  ffoorr  
iinneeffffeeccttiivveenneessss  
mmeeaassuurreemmeenntt(1)  

GGaaiinnss  ((lloosssseess))  
oonn  tthhee  hheeddggiinngg  
iinnssttrruummeennttss  ffoorr  
iinneeffffeeccttiivveenneessss  
mmeeaassuurreemmeenntt(1)  

HHeeddggee  
iinneeffffeeccttiivveenneessss(1)   

7788  
111122  
5599  
1155  

99  
4488  
7799     
−−     

221100  
((339966))  
((119988))  
((2255))  
((440099))    

((220088))  
339955  
119977  
2266  
441100     

22     
((11))    
((11))    
11     
11     

As at October 31, 2018  
Cumulative 
adjustments 
from 
discontinued 
hedges  

Cumulative 
hedge 
adjustments 
from active 
hedges 

Year ended October 31, 2018  

Gains (losses) 
on the hedged 
items for 
ineffectiveness 
measurement(1) 

Gains (losses) 
on the hedging 
instruments for 
ineffectiveness 
measurement(1) 

Hedge 
ineffectiveness(1)  

(78) 
(258) 
(89) 
(10) 

(11) 
20 
50   
−   

(144) 
264 
123 
10 
253   

144 
(262) 
(122) 
(10) 
(250)  

−   
2   
1   
−   
3   

Securities at fair value through other comprehensive income 
Deposits 
Liabilities related to transferred receivables 
Subordinated debt 

Securities at fair value through other comprehensive income 
Deposits 
Liabilities related to transferred receivables 
Subordinated debt 

(1) 

Amounts are presented on a pre-tax basis. 

176

6 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
   
 
       
       
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
       
   
   
   
  
 
 
   
 
       
       
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
       
   
   
   
 
 
 
  
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

CCaasshh  FFllooww  HHeeddggeess    

Cash flow hedge transactions consist of using interest rate swaps to hedge the risk of changes in future cash flows caused by floating-rate assets or liabilities. 
In addition, the Bank sometimes uses cross-currency swaps to hedge the foreign exchange risk caused by assets or liabilities denominated in foreign currencies. 
In certain cases, given that interest rate risk and foreign exchange risk are hedged in a single hedging relationship, the information below does not distinguish 
between interest rate risk and the combination of interest rate risk and foreign exchange risk as two separate risk categories. The Bank applies this strategy 
mainly to its loan, personal credit line, acceptance, and deposit portfolios.  

The Bank also uses total return swaps to hedge the risk of changes in future cash flows related to the Restricted Stock Unit (RSU) Plan. Some of these swaps are 
designated as part of a cash flow hedge against a portion of the unrecognized obligation of the RSU Plan. In cash flow hedges, the derivative financial instruments 
used as hedging instruments reduce the variability of the future cash flows related to the hedged items. 

Regression  analysis  is  used  to  assess  hedge  effectiveness  and  to  determine  the  hedge  ratio.  For  cash  flow  hedges,  the  main  source  of  potential  hedge 
ineffectiveness is a circumstance where the critical terms of the hedging instrument and the hedged item are not closely aligned. 

The following tables show the amounts related to hedged items as well as the results of the cash flow hedges. 

AAss  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199      

YYeeaarr  eennddeedd  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199   

AAccccuummuullaatteedd  
ootthheerr  
ccoommpprreehheennssiivvee  
iinnccoommee  ffrroomm  
aaccttiivvee  hheeddggeess  

AAccccuummuullaatteedd  
ootthheerr  
ccoommpprreehheennssiivvee  
iinnccoommee  ffrroomm  
ddiissccoonnttiinnuueedd  
hheeddggeess  

GGaaiinnss  ((lloosssseess))  oonn  
hheeddggeedd  iitteemmss  ffoorr  
iinneeffffeeccttiivveenneessss  
mmeeaassuurreemmeenntt(1)   

GGaaiinnss  ((lloosssseess))  oonn  
hheeddggiinngg  
iinnssttrruummeennttss  ffoorr  
iinneeffffeeccttiivveenneessss  
mmeeaassuurreemmeenntt(1)  

HHeeddggee  
iinneeffffeeccttiivveenneessss(1)  

UUnnrreeaalliizzeedd  ggaaiinnss  
((lloosssseess))  iinncclluuddeedd  
iinn  OOtthheerr  
ccoommpprreehheennssiivvee  
iinnccoommee  aass  tthhee  
eeffffeeccttiivvee  ppoorrttiioonn  
ooff  tthhee  hheeddggiinngg  
iinnssttrruummeenntt(1)  

LLoosssseess  ((ggaaiinnss))  
rreeccllaassssiiffiieedd  ttoo  
NNeett  iinntteerreesstt  
iinnccoommee(1)   

−− 
3300 
44 
3344   

−−   
3344   

((1144))
99
((4444))
((4499))

1100
((3399))

((4455))
115544
113333
224422

((66))
223366

4455
((115544))
((113355))
((224444))

66
((223388))

−− 
−− 
((22)) 
((22))  

−−   
((22))  

4455
((110088))
((113333))
((119966))

99
((118877))

((1166))   
((1100))   
22    
((2244))   

((33))   
((2277))   

As at October 31, 2018    

Year ended October 31, 2018  

Accumulated 
other 
comprehensive 
income from 
active hedges 

Accumulated 
other 
comprehensive 
income from 
discontinued 
hedges 

Gains (losses) on 
hedged items for 
ineffectiveness 
measurement(1)  

Gains (losses) on 
hedging 
instruments for 
ineffectiveness 
measurement(1) 

Hedge 
ineffectiveness(1) 

Unrealized gains 
(losses) included 
in Other 
comprehensive 
income as the 
effective portion 
of the hedging 
instrument(1) 

Losses (gains) 
reclassified to 
Net interest 
income(1)  

(16) 
138 
54 
176   

(3)  
173   

(26)
19
37
30

7
37

54
(84)
(70)
(100)

23
(77)

(53)
86
68
101

(23)
78

− 
− 
1 
1   

−   
1   

(53)
78
68
93

(23)
70

(36)  
(10)  
(17)  
(63)  

−   
(63)  

IInntteerreesstt  rraattee  rriisskk  
  Loans 
  Deposits 
  Acceptances 

EEqquuiittyy  pprriiccee  rriisskk  
  Other liabilities 

IInntteerreesstt  rraattee  rriisskk  
  Loans 
  Deposits 
  Acceptances 

EEqquuiittyy  pprriiccee  rriisskk  
  Other liabilities 

(1) 

Amounts are presented on a pre-tax basis. 

National Bank of Canada 

177

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
  
 
 
   
 
    
 
    
 
  
  
  
   
 
  
  
  
  
  
   
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
     
 
   
   
 
 
 
   
  
 
 
     
 
 
 
 
   
 
    
 
    
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
     
 
   
   
   
 
 
 
     
 
 
 
  
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Note 17 – Hedging Activities (cont.) 

HHeeddggeess  ooff  NNeett  IInnvveessttmmeennttss  iinn  FFoorreeiiggnn  OOppeerraattiioonnss    

The Bank’s structural foreign exchange risk arises from investments in foreign operations denominated in currencies other than the Canadian dollar. The Bank 
measures  this  risk  by  assessing  the  impact  of  foreign  currency  fluctuations  and  hedges  it  using  derivative  and  non-derivative  financial  instruments  (cross-
currency swaps and deposits). In a hedge of a net investment in a foreign operation (net investment hedge), the financial instruments used offset the foreign 
exchange gains and losses on the investments. When non-derivative financial instruments are designated as foreign exchange risk hedges, only the changes in 
fair value that are attributable to foreign exchange risk are taken into account when assessing and calculating the effectiveness of the hedge.  

Assessing the effectiveness of net investment hedges consists of comparing changes in the carrying value of the deposits or the fair value of the derivative 
attributable to exchange rate fluctuations with changes in the net investment in a foreign operation attributable to exchange rate fluctuations. Inasmuch as the 
notional amount of the hedging instruments and the hedged net investments are aligned, no ineffectiveness is expected. 

The following tables present the amounts related to hedged items as well as the results of the net investment hedges. 

NNeett  iinnvveessttmmeennttss  iinn  ffoorreeiiggnn  
  ooppeerraattiioonnss  ddeennoommiinnaatteedd  iinn::  
  USD 
  EUR 
  BRL 
  Other currencies 

AAss  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199  

  YYeeaarr  eennddeedd  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199  

AAccccuummuullaatteedd  
ootthheerr  
ccoommpprreehheennssiivvee  
iinnccoommee  ffrroomm  
aaccttiivvee  hheeddggeess  

AAccccuummuullaatteedd  
ootthheerr  
ccoommpprreehheennssiivvee  
iinnccoommee  ffrroomm  
ddiissccoonnttiinnuueedd  
hheeddggeess  

GGaaiinnss  ((lloosssseess))  oonn  
hheeddggeedd  iitteemmss  ffoorr  
iinneeffffeeccttiivveenneessss  
mmeeaassuurreemmeenntt(1)  

GGaaiinnss  ((lloosssseess))  oonn  
hheeddggiinngg  
iinnssttrruummeennttss  ffoorr  
iinneeffffeeccttiivveenneessss  
mmeeaassuurreemmeenntt(1)    

HHeeddggee  
iinneeffffeeccttiivveenneessss(1)  

UUnnrreeaalliizzeedd  ggaaiinnss  
((lloosssseess))  iinncclluuddeedd  
iinn  OOtthheerr  
ccoommpprreehheennssiivvee  
iinnccoommee  aass  tthhee  
eeffffeeccttiivvee  ppoorrttiioonn  
ooff  tthhee  hheeddggiinngg  
iinnssttrruummeenntt(1)  

LLoosssseess  ((ggaaiinnss))  
rreeccllaassssiiffiieedd  ttoo  
tthhee  NNoonn--iinntteerreesstt  
iinnccoommee  iitteemm(1)  

77  
−−  
−−  
−−  
77  

((119911))  
−−  
3366  
−−  
((115555))  

((55))  
−−  
−−  
((11))  
((66))  

55  
−−  
−−  
11  
66  

−−  
−−  
−−  
−−  
−−  

55  
−−  
−−  
11  
66  

−−  
33  
−−  
((11))  
22  

As at October 31, 2018 

 Year ended October 31, 2018 

Accumulated 
other 
comprehensive 
income from 
active hedges 

Accumulated 
other 
comprehensive 
income from 
discontinued 
hedges 

Gains (losses) on 
hedged items for 
ineffectiveness 
measurement(1) 

Gains (losses) on 
hedging 
instruments for 
ineffectiveness 
measurement(1)  

Hedge 
ineffectiveness(1) 

Unrealized gains 
(losses) included 
in Other 
comprehensive 
income as the 
effective portion 
of the hedging 
instrument(1) 

Losses (gains) 
reclassified to the 
Non-interest 
income item(1) 

NNeett  iinnvveessttmmeennttss  iinn  ffoorreeiiggnn  
  ooppeerraattiioonnss  ddeennoommiinnaatteedd  iinn::  
  USD 
  EUR 
  BRL 
  Other currencies 

(1) 

Amounts are presented on a pre-tax basis. 

(2) 
1 
(1) 
− 
(2) 

(187) 
(4) 
37 
− 
(154) 

17 
(1) 
(3) 
− 
13 

(17) 
1 
3 
− 
(13) 

− 
− 
− 
− 
− 

(17) 
1 
3 
− 
(13) 

− 
− 
− 
− 
− 

178

8 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
   
 
 
  
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

RReeccoonncciilliiaattiioonn  ooff  EEqquuiittyy  CCoommppoonneennttss  

The following table presents a reconciliation by risk category of Accumulated other comprehensive income attributable to hedge accounting. 

As at October 31 

Balance at beginning 
HHeeddggeess  ooff  nneett  iinnvveessttmmeennttss  iinn  ffoorreeiiggnn  ooppeerraattiioonnss(1)  
  Gains (losses) included as the effective portion 
  Losses (gains) reclassified to Non-interest income 
  Foreign currency translation gains (losses) on investments in foreign operations   

CCaasshh  ffllooww  hheeddggeess(1)  
  Gains (losses) included as the effective portion 
    Interest rate risk 
    Equity price risk 
  Losses (gains) reclassified to Net interest income 
    Interest rate risk 
    Equity price risk 

Other comprehensive income attributable to non-controlling interests 
Income taxes 
BBaallaannccee  aatt  eenndd  

(1) 

Amounts are presented on a pre-tax basis. 

NNeett  ggaaiinnss  ((lloosssseess))  oonn  
ccaasshh  ffllooww  hheeddggeess  

115511

((119966))
99

((2244))
((33))

−−
5577
((66))

22001199   
NNeett  ffoorreeiiggnn  ccuurrrreennccyy  
ttrraannssllaattiioonn  
aaddjjuussttmmeennttss   

1144    

66    
22    
((99))   

11    
((66))   
88    

Net gains (losses) 
on cash flow hedges 

146

93
(23)

(63)
−

−
(2)
151

2018  
Net foreign currency 
translation 
adjustments  

(13)  

(13)  
−   
42   

(1)  
(1)  
14   

National Bank of Canada 

179

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
     
 
     
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
     
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
     
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

NNoottee  1188  ––  SShhaarree  CCaappiittaall  

AAuutthhoorriizzeedd  
Common Shares 
An unlimited number of shares without par value. 

First Preferred Shares 
An unlimited number of shares, without par value, issuable for a maximum aggregate consideration of $5 billion.  

FFiirrsstt  PPrreeffeerrrreedd  SShhaarreess  

Redemption and 
conversion date(1)(2)  

Redemption 
 price per 
share ($)(1)  

Convertible into 
preferred shares(2)  

Dividend per 
share ($)(3)  

Reset premium 

As at October 31, 2019  

May 15, 2024  (5)(6)   
February 15, 2020  (5)(6)   
May 15, 2021  (5)(6)   
August 15, 2021  (5)(6)   
November 15, 2022  (5)(6)   
May 15, 2023  (5)(6)   
November 15, 2023  (5)(6)   

July 31, 2013  
May 15, 2024  (5) 
February 15, 2020  (5) 
May 15, 2021  (5) 
August 15, 2021  (5) 
November 15, 2022  (5) 
May 15, 2023  (5) 
November 15, 2023  (5) 

25.00 
25.00 
25.00 
25.00 
25.00 
25.00 
25.00 

25.00  
25.00  (10) 
25.50  (12) 
25.50  (12) 
25.50  (12) 
25.50  (12) 
25.50  (12) 
25.50  (12) 

Series 31 
Series 33 
Series 35 
Series 37 
Series 39 
Series 41 
Series 43 

0.25156  (7) 
0.24375  (8) 
0.35000  (8) 
0.33750  (8) 
0.27813  (8) 
0.28750  (8) 
0.30938  (8) 

n.a. 
n.a. 
n.a. 
n.a.  
n.a.  
n.a.  
n.a.  
n.a.  

0.75000  
Floating rate  (11) 
Floating rate  (11) 
Floating rate  (11) 
Floating rate  (11) 
Floating rate  (11) 
Floating rate  (11) 
Floating rate  (11) 

2.40  %  
2.25  %  
4.90  %  
4.66  %  
3.43  %  
2.58  %  
2.77  %  

n.a.  
2.40  %   
2.25  %   
4.90  %   
4.66  %   
3.43  %   
2.58  %   
2.77  %   

FFiirrsstt  pprreeffeerrrreedd  sshhaarreess    
   iissssuueedd  aanndd  oouuttssttaannddiinngg    
    Series 30(4) 
    Series 32(4) 
    Series 34(4) 
    Series 36(4) 
    Series 38(4) 
    Series 40(4) 
    Series 42(4) 

FFiirrsstt  pprreeffeerrrreedd  sshhaarreess      
   aauutthhoorriizzeedd  bbuutt  nnoott  iissssuueedd    
    Series 23(9) 
    Series 31(4) 
    Series 33(4) 
    Series 35(4) 
    Series 37(4) 
    Series 39(4) 
    Series 41(4) 
    Series 43(4) 

n.a. 
(1) 

(2) 
(3) 
(4) 

(5) 
(6) 
(7) 

(8) 

(9) 
(10) 
(11) 

(12) 

Not applicable 
Redeemable in cash at the Bank’s option, in whole or in part, subject to the provisions of the Bank Act (Canada) and to OSFI approval. Redemption prices are increased by all the declared 
and unpaid dividends on the preferred shares to the date fixed for redemption. 
Convertible at the option of the holders of first preferred shares, subject to certain conditions. 
The dividends are non-cumulative and payable quarterly, except for Series 23, for which the dividends are payable semi-annually. 
Upon the occurrence of a trigger event as defined by OSFI, each outstanding preferred share will be automatically and immediately converted, on a full and permanent basis, without the 
consent of the holder, into a number of common shares of the Bank determined pursuant to an automatic conversion formula. This conversion will be calculated by dividing the value of the 
preferred shares, i.e., $25.00 per share, plus all declared and unpaid dividends as at the date of the trigger event, by the value of the common shares. The value of the common shares will 
be the greater of a $5.00 floor price or the current market price of the common shares. Current market price means the volume weighted average trading price of common shares for the ten 
consecutive trading days ending on the trading day preceding the date of the trigger event. If the common shares are not listed on an exchange when this price is being established, the price 
will be the fair value reasonably determined by the Bank’s Board. 
Redeemable on the date fixed for redemption and on the same date every five years thereafter. 
Convertible on the date fixed for conversion and on the same date every five years thereafter, subject to certain conditions. 
The dividend amount is set for the five-year period commencing on May 16, 2019 and ending on the date fixed for redemption. Thereafter, these shares carry a non-cumulative quarterly fixed 
dividend in an amount per share determined by multiplying the rate of interest equal to the sum of the 5-year Government of Canada bond yield on the applicable fixed-rate calculation date 
by $25.00, plus the reset premium. 
The dividend amount is set for the initial period ending on the date fixed for redemption. Thereafter, these shares carry a non-cumulative quarterly fixed dividend in an amount per share 
determined by multiplying the rate of interest equal to the sum of the 5-year Government of Canada bond yield on the applicable fixed-rate calculation date by $25.00, plus the reset premium. 
For additional information, see Note 19 to these consolidated financial statements.  
As of the date fixed for redemption, and every five years thereafter, the redemption price will be $25.00 per share.  
The dividend period begins as of the date fixed for redemption. The amount of the floating quarterly non-cumulative dividend is determined by multiplying the rate of interest equal to the 
sum of the 90-day Government of Canada treasury bill yield on the floating rate calculation date by $25.00, plus the reset premium. 
As of the date fixed for redemption, the redemption price will be $25.50 per share. Thereafter, on the same date every five years, the redemption price will be $25.00 per share. 

Second Preferred Shares 
15 million shares without par value, issuable for a total maximum consideration of $300 million. As at October 31, 2019, no shares had been issued or traded. 

180

180 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
     
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
     
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
     
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
     
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

SShhaarreess  OOuuttssttaannddiinngg    

As at October 31 

First Preferred Shares 
    Series 30 
    Series 32 
    Series 34 
    Series 36 
    Series 38 
    Series 40 
    Series 42 

Common shares at beginning of the fiscal year 
Issued pursuant to the Stock Option Plan 
Repurchase of common shares for cancellation 
Impact of shares purchased or sold for trading(1) 
Other 
Common shares at end of year 

NNuummbbeerr  
ooff  sshhaarreess  

1144,,000000,,000000
1122,,000000,,000000
1166,,000000,,000000
1166,,000000,,000000
1166,,000000,,000000
1122,,000000,,000000
1122,,000000,,000000
9988,,000000,,000000

333355,,007700,,664422
22,,995500,,992222
((44,,554477,,220000))
669999,,556644
((11,,551177))
333344,,117722,,441111

22001199    

SShhaarreess  
$$  

335500
330000
440000
440000
440000
330000
330000
22,,445500

22,,882222
112222
((4400))
4455
−−
22,,994499

Number 
of shares 

14,000,000
12,000,000
16,000,000
16,000,000
16,000,000
12,000,000
12,000,000
98,000,000

339,591,965
3,129,313
(7,500,000)
(149,430)
(1,206)
335,070,642

2018  

Shares 
$ 

350 
300 
400 
400 
400 
300 
300 
2,450   

2,768   
128   
(64)  
(10)  
−   
2,822   

(1) 

As at October 31, 2019, there were 3,846 shares held for trading, representing a negligible amount (703,410 shares held for trading representing $45 million as at October 31, 2018). 

DDiivviiddeennddss  DDeeccllaarreedd    

Year ended October 31 

First Preferred Shares 
    Series 30 
    Series 32 
    Series 34 
    Series 36 
    Series 38 
    Series 40 
    Series 42 

Common shares 

DDiivviiddeennddss  
$$

1144
1122
2222
2222
1188
1144
1144
111166

889922
11,,000088

22001199  

DDiivviiddeennddss
ppeerr  sshhaarree

11..00115566
00..99775500
11..44000000
11..33550000
11..11112255
11..11550000
11..22337755

22..66660000

Dividends 
$

14
12
22
22
18
11
6
105

829
934  

2018 

Dividends
per share

1.0250  
0.9750  
1.4000  
1.3500  
1.1125  
0.9310  
0.5323  

2.4400  

IIssssuuaanncceess  ooff  PPrreeffeerrrreedd  SShhaarreess  
On June 11, 2018, the Bank had issued 12,000,000 Non-Cumulative 5-Year Rate-Reset Series 42 First Preferred Shares at a price equal to $25.00 per share for 
gross proceeds of $300 million. Given that the Series 42 preferred shares satisfy the non-viability contingent capital requirements, they qualify for the purposes 
of calculating regulatory capital under Basel III.  

On January 22, 2018, the Bank had issued 12,000,000 Non-Cumulative 5-Year Rate-Reset Series 40 First Preferred Shares at a price equal to $25.00 per share 
for  gross  proceeds  of  $300 million.  Given  that  the  Series  40  preferred  shares  satisfy  the  non-viability  contingent  capital  requirements,  they  qualify  for  the 
purposes of calculating regulatory capital under Basel III.  

National Bank of Canada 

181

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Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Note 18  ––  Share Capital (cont.)  

RReeppuurrcchhaasseess  ooff  CCoommmmoonn  SShhaarreess  
On June 10, 2019, the Bank began a normal course issuer bid to repurchase for cancellation up to 6,000,000 common shares (representing approximately 1.80% 
of its outstanding common shares) over the 12-month period ending no later than June 9, 2020. On June 6, 2018, the Bank had begun a normal course issuer 
bid to repurchase for cancellation up to 8,000,000 common shares (representing approximately 2.36% of its outstanding common shares) over the 12-month 
period ended June 5, 2019. Any repurchase through the Toronto Stock Exchange will be done at market prices. The common shares may also be repurchased 
through other means authorized by the Toronto Stock Exchange and applicable regulations, including private agreements or share repurchase programs under 
issuer bid exemption orders issued by the securities regulators. A private purchase made under an exemption order issued by a securities regulator will be done 
at a discount to the prevailing market price. The amounts that are paid above the average book value of the common shares are charged to Retained earnings. 
During the year ended October 31, 2019, the Bank repurchased 4,547,200 common shares for $281 million, which reduced Common share capital by $40 million 
and Retained earnings by $241 million. During the year ended October 31, 2018, the Bank had repurchased 7,500,000 common shares for $467 million, which 
had reduced Common share capital by $64 million and Retained earnings by $403 million. 

RReesseerrvveedd  CCoommmmoonn  SShhaarreess  
As  at  October  31,  2019  and  2018,  there  were  15,507,568  common  shares  reserved  under  the  Dividend  Reinvestment  and  Share  Purchase  Plan.  As  at 
October 31, 2019, there were 20,377,278 common shares (22,894,802 as at October 31, 2018) reserved under the Stock Option Plan. 

CCoommmmoonn  SShhaarreess  HHeelldd  iinn  EEssccrrooww  
As part of the acquisition of Wellington West Holdings Inc. in 2011, the Bank had issued common shares held in escrow. In December 2016, a total of 799,563 
of these shares were released to shareholders, and 108,341 shares were cancelled, mainly upon the settlement of certain indemnifications guaranteed by those 
shares. During the year ended October 31, 2019, a total of 870 of these shares were released to shareholders, and 1,517 shares were cancelled (during the year 
ended October 31, 2018, a total of 3,778 of these shares were released, and 1,206 shares were cancelled). As at October 31, 2019, the number of common 
shares held in escrow was 21,510 (23,897 as at October 31, 2018). The Bank expects that the remaining shares in escrow will be settled by the end of calendar 
year 2020. 

RReessttrriiccttiioonn  oonn  tthhee  PPaayymmeenntt  ooff  DDiivviiddeennddss    
The Bank is prohibited from declaring dividends on its common or preferred shares if there are reasonable grounds for believing that the Bank would, by so 
doing, be in contravention of the regulations of the Bank Act (Canada) or OSFI’s capital adequacy and liquidity guidelines. In addition, the ability to pay common 
share dividends is restricted by the terms of the outstanding preferred shares pursuant to which the Bank may not pay dividends on its common shares without 
the approval of the holders of the outstanding preferred shares, unless all preferred share dividends have been declared and paid or set aside for payment. 
Moreover, if NBC Asset Trust were unable to pay the full amount of distributions on the trust units, the Bank would withhold from declaring dividends on any of 
its preferred and common shares during a determined period. For additional information, see Notes 19 and 27 to these consolidated financial statements. 

DDiivviiddeenndd  RReeiinnvveessttmmeenntt  PPllaann  
The Bank has a dividend reinvestment plan for common and preferred shareholders. Participation in the plan is optional. Under the terms and conditions of the 
plan, participants acquire shares through the reinvestment of cash dividends paid on the shares they hold or through optional cash payments. Common shares 
subscribed by participants are purchased on their behalf in the secondary market through the Bank’s transfer agent, Computershare Trust Company of Canada, 
at a price equal to the average purchase price of the common shares during the ten business days immediately following the dividend payment date. 

182

182 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

NNoottee  1199  ––  NNoonn--CCoonnttrroolllliinngg  IInntteerreessttss  

As at October 31 

Trust units issued by NBC Asset Trust (NBC CapS II) –  Series 2(1) 
Other(2) 

22001199   

335599    
((11))
335588

2018 

359   
20 
379 

(1) 
(2) 

Includes $9 million in accrued interest as at October 31, 2019 ($9 million as at October 31, 2018). 
During  the  year  ended  October  31,  2019,  the  Bank  acquired  the  entire  remaining  non-controlling  interest  in  the  Cambodian  subsidiary  Advanced  Bank  of  Asia  Limited.  For  additional 
information, see Note 31 to these consolidated financial statements.  

TTrruusstt  UUnniittss  IIssssuueedd  bbyy  NNBBCC  AAsssseett  TTrruusstt  
Through structured entity NBC Asset Trust (the Trust), a closed-end trust established under the laws of the Province of Ontario, the Bank issued transferable non-
voting trust units called “Trust Capital Securities” or “NBC CapS II.” These securities are not redeemable or exchangeable for Bank preferred shares at the option 
of the holder. The gross proceeds from the issuance were used by the Trust to finance the acquisition of mortgage loans from the Bank. For additional information, 
see Note 27 to these consolidated financial statements. 

The main terms and characteristics of the NBC CapS II trust units outstanding as at October 31, 2019 are presented below. 

Number 

Issuance date 

Annual yield 

Distribution dates 

Semi-annual 
distribution 
by NBC CapS II(1) 

Series 2 

350,000 

June 30, 2008 

7.447  % 

June 30, 
December 31 

$37.235(2) 

(1) 
(2) 

For each unit with a face value of $1,000. 
For each distribution date after June 30, 2020, the distribution will be paid at a rate equal to one-half the sum of the 180-day bankers’ acceptance rate in effect plus 4.09%. 

Distribution 
No cash distributions will be payable by the Trust on NBC CapS II if the Bank fails to declare regular dividends on its preferred shares or, if no preferred shares 
are then outstanding, on its outstanding common shares. In this case, the net distributable funds of the Trust will be paid to the Bank as the sole holder of the 
special trust securities, representing the residual interest in the Trust. Should the Trust fail to pay the semi-annual distributions in full on the NBC CapS II, the 
Bank will withhold from declaring dividends on any of its preferred and common shares during a determined period. 

Automatic Exchange 
Each NBC CapS II – Series 2 can be exchanged automatically, without the consent of the holders, for 40 Series 23 First Preferred Shares of the Bank upon the 
occurrence of one of the following events: (i) proceedings are commenced for the winding-up of the Bank; (ii) OSFI takes control of the Bank; (iii) the Bank posts 
a Tier 1 capital ratio of less than 5% or a Total capital ratio of less than 8%; or (iv) OSFI has directed the Bank to increase its capital or to provide additional 
liquidity and the Bank elects such automatic exchange or the Bank fails to comply with such direction to the satisfaction of OSFI. On an automatic exchange, the 
Bank will hold all outstanding trust capital securities of the Trust. 

Redemption at the Option of the Trust 
On any distribution date, the Trust may, subject to prior written notice and OSFI approval, redeem, at its option, the NBC CapS II – Series 2, in whole but not in 
part, without the consent of the holders.  

Purchase for Cancellation 
The Trust may, with OSFI approval, purchase NBC CapS II – Series 2, in whole or in part, on the open market or by tender or private contract at any price. The NBC 
CapS II purchased by the Trust, if any, will be cancelled and will not be reissued. 

Regulatory Capital 
The NBC CapS II – Series 2 qualify as innovative capital instruments and are eligible as additional Tier 1 capital, but because these instruments do not satisfy 
the non-viability contingent capital requirements, they are to be phased out at a rate of 10% per year between 2013 and 2022.  

National Bank of Canada 

183

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
   
  
   
   
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

NNoottee  2200  ––  CCaappiittaall  DDiisscclloossuurree  

CCaappiittaall  MMaannaaggeemmeenntt  OObbjjeeccttiivveess,,  PPoolliicciieess  aanndd  PPrroocceedduurreess  
Capital management has a dual role of ensuring a competitive return to the Bank’s shareholders while maintaining a solid capital foundation that covers the 
risks inherent to the Bank’s business, supports its business segments and protects its clients. 

The Bank’s capital management policy defines the guiding principles as well as the roles and responsibilities regarding its internal capital adequacy assessment 
process. This process is a key tool in establishing the Bank’s capital strategy and is subject to quarterly reviews and periodic amendments. 

CCaappiittaall  MMaannaaggeemmeenntt  
Capital ratios are obtained by dividing regulatory capital by risk-weighted assets and are expressed as a percentage. Risk-weighted assets are calculated in 
accordance with the rules established by OSFI for on- and off-balance-sheet risks. Credit, market and operational risks are factored into the risk-weighted assets 
calculation for regulatory purposes. The definition adopted by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (BCBS) distinguishes between three types of capital. 
Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) capital consists of common shareholders’ equity less goodwill, intangible assets and other capital deductions. The Additional Tier 
1 instruments comprise eligible non-cumulative preferred shares and the eligible amount of innovative instruments. The sum of CET1 and Additional Tier 1 capital 
forms what is known as Tier 1 capital. Tier 2 capital consists of the eligible portion of subordinated debt and certain allowances for credit losses. Total regulatory 
capital is the sum of Tier 1 and Tier 2 capital. 

The Bank and all other major Canadian banks have to maintain minimum capital ratios established by OSFI: a CET1 capital ratio of at least 10.0%, a Tier 1 capital 
ratio of at least 11.5%, and a Total capital ratio of at least 13.5%. All of these ratios are to include a capital conservation buffer of 2.5%, a 1% surcharge applicable 
solely to D-SIBs, and a 2.0% domestic stability buffer. The domestic stability buffer, which can vary from 0% to 2.5% of risk-weighted assets, consists exclusively 
of CET1 capital. A D-SIB that fails to meet this buffer requirement will not be subject to automatic constraints to reduce capital distributions but will have to 
provide a remediation plan to OSFI. The banks also have to meet the capital floor that sets the regulatory capital level according to the Basel II standardized 
approach. If the capital requirement under Basel III is less than 75% of the capital requirements as calculated under Basel II, the difference is added to risk-
weighted assets. OSFI requires Canadian banks to meet a Basel III leverage ratio of at least 3.0%. The leverage ratio is a measure independent of risk that is 
calculated by dividing the amount of Tier 1 capital  by total exposure. Total exposure is defined as the sum of on-balance-sheet assets (including derivative 
exposures and securities financing transaction exposures) and off-balance-sheet items. The assets deducted from Tier 1 capital are also deducted from total 
exposure.  

During the years ended October 31, 2019 and 2018, the Bank was in compliance with all of OSFI’s regulatory capital requirements. 

184

184 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

RReegguullaattoorryy  CCaappiittaall  aanndd  RRaattiiooss  UUnnddeerr  BBaasseell  IIIIII  

As at October 31 

CCaappiittaall  
  CET1 
  Tier 1 
  Total 

RRiisskk--wweeiigghhtteedd  aasssseettss  
  CET1 capital 
  Tier 1 capital 
  Total capital 

TToottaall  eexxppoossuurree  

CCaappiittaall  rraattiiooss    
  CET1 
  Tier 1 
  Total 

LLeevveerraaggee  rraattiioo  

22001199  

2018 

99,,669922  
1122,,449922  
1133,,336666  

8833,,003399  
8833,,003399  
8833,,003399  

8,608 
11,410 
12,352 

73,654 
73,670 
73,685 

330088,,990022  

284,337 

1111..77   %%  
1155..00   %%  
1166..11   %%  

44..00   %%  

11.7  % 
15.5  % 
16.8  % 

4.0  % 

NNoottee  2211  ––  TTrraaddiinngg  AAccttiivviittyy  RReevveennuueess    

Trading activity revenues consist of the net interest income from trading activities and of trading revenues recognized in Non-interest income in the Consolidated 
Statement of Income. 

Net interest income comprises dividends related to financial assets and liabilities associated with trading activities, net of interest expenses and interest income 
related to the financing of these financial assets and liabilities. 

Non-interest income consists of realized and unrealized gains and losses as well as interest income on securities measured at fair value through profit or loss, 
income from held-for-trading derivative financial instruments, changes in the fair value of loans at fair value through profit or loss, changes in the fair value of 
financial instruments designated at fair value through profit or loss, and transaction costs if applicable. 

Year ended October 31 

Net interest income 
Non-interest income   

22001199  

4477
882299
887766

2018  

70   
840   
910   

National Bank of Canada 

185

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
   
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

NNoottee  2222  ––  SShhaarree--BBaasseedd  PPaayymmeennttss    

The compensation expense information provided below excludes the impact of hedging. 

SSttoocckk  OOppttiioonn  PPllaann  
The Bank’s Stock Option Plan is for officers and other designated persons of the Bank and its subsidiaries. Under this plan, options are awarded annually and 
provide participants with the right to purchase common shares at an exercise price equal to the closing price of the Bank’s common share on the Toronto Stock 
Exchange on the day preceding the award. The options vest evenly over a four-year period and expire ten years from the award date or, in certain circumstances 
set out in the plan, within specified time limits. The Stock Option Plan contains provisions for retiring employees that allow the participant’s rights to continue 
vesting in accordance with the stated terms of the grant agreement. The maximum number of common shares that may be issued under the Stock Option Plan 
was 20,377,278 as at October 31, 2019 (22,894,802 as at October 31, 2018). The number of common shares reserved for a participant may not exceed 5% of 
the total number of Bank shares issued and outstanding. 

As at October 31 

SSttoocckk  OOppttiioonn  PPllaann  
Outstanding at beginning 
Awarded 
Exercised 
Cancelled(1) 
Outstanding at end 
Exercisable at end 

NNuummbbeerr  ooff  
ooppttiioonnss  

1133,,006644,,774466  
22,,111166,,889922  
((22,,995500,,992222))  
((112277,,009900))  
1122,,110033,,662266  
77,,442211,,666622  

22001199  
WWeeiigghhtteedd  
aavveerraaggee  
eexxeerrcciissee  pprriiccee  

$$  
$$  
$$  
$$  
$$  
$$  

4444..7788  
5588..7799  
3366..4400  
5566..8866  
4499..1155  
4433..5599  

Number of 
options 

14,575,894 
1,836,348 
(3,129,313) 
(218,183) 
13,064,746 
8,378,530 

(1) 

Includes 13,662 expired options during the year ended October 31, 2019 (13,784 expired options during the year ended October 31, 2018). 

Exercise price 

$29.25 
$34.34 
$34.09 
$38.36 
$44.96 
$47.93 
$42.17 
$54.69 
$64.14 
$58.79 

Options 
outstanding 

373,908 
580,874 
778,732 
965,378 
1,213,605 
1,529,319 
1,339,479 
1,493,427 
1,734,064 
2,094,840 
12,103,626   

Options 
exercisable 

373,908 
580,874 
778,732 
965,378 
1,213,605 
1,529,319 
884,759 
671,513 
423,574 
− 

7,421,662     

2018 
Weighted 
average 
exercise price 

$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 

40.46 
64.14 
35.75 
48.85 
44.78 
39.17 

Expiry date  

 December 2019  
 December 2020  
 December 2021  
December 2022  
December 2023  
December 2024  
December 2025  
December 2026  
December 2027  
December 2028  

During the year ended October 31, 2019, the Bank awarded 2,116,892 stock options (1,836,348 stock options during the year ended October 31, 2018) with an 
average fair value of $6.14 per option ($7.42 for the year ended October 31, 2018). 

The average fair value of options awarded was estimated on the award date using the Black-Scholes model as well as the following assumptions. 

Year ended October 31 

Risk-free interest rate 
Expected life of options 
Expected volatility 
Expected dividend yield 

186

22001199  

2018  

22..5500%%  
77  yyeeaarrss  
1188..4400%%  
44..3377%%  

2.11%  
7 years  
18.87%  
3.80%  

186 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
    
  
  
      
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
   
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

The expected life of the options is based on historical data and is not necessarily representative of how options will be exercised in the future. Expected volatility 
is extrapolated from the implied volatility of the Bank’s share price and observable market inputs, which are not necessarily representative of actual results. The 
expected dividend yield represents the annualized  dividend divided  by the Bank’s share price at  the award date. The risk-free interest rate is based on the 
Canadian dollar swap curve at the award date. The exercise price is equal to the Bank’s share price at the award date. No other market parameter has been 
included in the fair value measurement of the options. 

The compensation expense recorded for this plan for the year ended October 31, 2019 was $11 million ($12 million for the year ended October 31, 2018). 

SSttoocckk  AApppprreecciiaattiioonn  RRiigghhttss  ((SSAARR))  PPllaann 
The SAR Plan is for officers and other designated persons of the Bank and its subsidiaries. Under this plan, participants receive, upon exercising the right, a cash 
amount equal to the difference between the closing price of the Bank’s common share on the Toronto Stock Exchange on the day preceding the exercise date 
and the closing price on the day preceding the award date. SARs vest evenly over a four-year period and expire 10 years after the award date or, in certain 
circumstances set out in the plan, within specified time limits. The SAR Plan contains provisions for retiring employees that allow the participant’s rights to 
continue  vesting  in  accordance  with  the  stated  terms  of  the  grant  agreement.  A  compensation  expense  of  $2  million  was  recognized  for  the  year  ended 
October 31, 2019 with respect to this plan ($1 million for the year ended October 31, 2018).  

As at October 31 

SSAARR  PPllaann(1)  
Outstanding at beginning 
Awarded 
Exercised 
Outstanding at end 
Exercisable at end 

(1) 

No SARs cancelled or expired during the years ended October 31, 2019 and 2018. 

Exercise price 

$29.25 
$34.34 
$34.09 
$38.36 
$44.96 
$47.93 
$42.17 
$54.69 
$64.14 
$58.79 

  NNuummbbeerr  
ooff  SSAARRss  

333322,,221111  
4466,,996688  
((4444,,118822))  
333344,,999977  
119900,,669911  

22001199  
WWeeiigghhtteedd  
aavveerraaggee  
eexxeerrcciissee  pprriiccee  

$$  
$$  
$$  
$$  
$$  

4466..8866  
5588..7799  
3388..6699  
4499..6611  
4433..6655  

 Number 
of SARs 

395,334 
62,820 
(125,943) 
332,211 
163,971 

SARs 
outstanding 

SARs 
exercisable 

9,320 
21,060 
24,608 
24,216 
29,480 
31,572 
33,356 
51,597 
62,820 
46,968 
334,997 

9,320 
21,060 
24,608 
24,216 
29,480 
31,572 
14,811 
19,919 
15,705 
− 
190,691 

2018  
Weighted 
average 
exercise price  

$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 

42.29   
64.14   
41.13   
46.86   
38.91   

Expiry date  

 December 2019  
 December 2020  
 December 2021  
December 2022  
December 2023  
December 2024  
December 2025  
December 2026  
December 2027  
December 2028  

DDeeffeerrrreedd  SSttoocckk  UUnniitt  ((DDSSUU))  PPllaannss  
The DSU Plans are for officers and other designated persons of the Bank and its subsidiaries as well as directors. These plans allow the Bank to tie a portion of 
the value of the compensation of participants to the future value of the Bank’s common shares. A DSU is a right that has a value equal to the closing price of a 
common share of the Bank on the Toronto Stock Exchange on the day preceding the award. DSUs generally vest evenly over four years. Additional DSUs are 
credited to the accounts of participants in an amount equal to the dividends declared on Bank common shares and vest evenly over the same period as the 
reference DSUs. DSUs may only be cashed when participants retire or leave the Bank or, for directors, when their term ends. The DSU Plans contain provisions 
for retiring employees whereby participants may continue vesting units in accordance with the stated terms of the grant agreement.  

During the year ended October 31, 2019, the Bank awarded 51,839 DSUs at a weighted average price of $60.33 (44,713 DSUs at a weighted average price of 
$63.68 for the year ended October 31, 2018). A total of 569,402 DSUs were outstanding as at October 31, 2019 (591,360 DSUs as at October 31, 2018). A 
compensation  expense  of  $9  million  was  recognized  for  the  year  ended  October 31,  2019  with  respect  to  these  plans  ($7 million  for  the  year  ended 
October 31, 2018). 

National Bank of Canada 

187

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
     
 
   
     
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Note 22  ––  Share-Based Payments (cont.) 

RReessttrriicctteedd  SSttoocckk  UUnniitt  ((RRSSUU))  PPllaann 
The RSU Plan is for certain officers and other designated persons of the Bank and its subsidiaries. The objective of this plan is to ensure that the compensation 
of certain officers and other designated persons is competitive and to foster retention. An RSU represents a right that has a value equal to the average closing 
price of the Bank’s common share, as published by the Toronto Stock Exchange, over the ten trading days preceding the sixth business day in December. RSUs 
generally vest evenly over three years, although some RSUs vest on the sixth business day of December of the third year following the date of the award, the 
date on which all RSUs expire. Additional RSUs are credited to the accounts of participants in an amount equal to the dividends declared on the Bank common 
shares and vest evenly over the same period as the reference RSUs. The RSU Plan contains provisions for retiring employees whereby participants may continue 
vesting units in accordance with the stated terms of the award agreement.  

During the year ended October 31, 2019, the Bank awarded 2,396,501 RSUs at a weighted average price of $60.07 (2,158,594 RSUs at a weighted average price 
of $63.57 for the year ended October 31, 2018). As at October 31, 2019, a total of 4,977,984 RSUs were outstanding (5,072,615 RSUs as at October 31, 2018). 
A  compensation  expense  of  $175  million  was  recognized  for  the  year  ended  October  31,  2019  with  respect  to  this  plan  ($140  million  for  the  year  ended 
October 31, 2018). 

PPeerrffoorrmmaannccee  SSttoocckk  UUnniitt  ((PPSSUU))  PPllaann  
The PSU Plan is for officers and other designated persons of the Bank. The objective of this plan is to tie a portion of the value of the compensation of these 
officers and other designated persons to the future value of the Bank’s common shares. A PSU represents a right that has a value equal to the average closing 
price of the Bank’s common share, as published by the Toronto Stock Exchange, over the ten trading days preceding the sixth business day in December, adjusted 
upward or downward according to performance criteria, which is based on the Bank’s total shareholder return (TSR) growth index over three years compared to 
the average TSR growth index of the comparator group composed of Canadian banks over three years. PSUs vest on the sixth business day of December of the 
third year following the date of the award, the date on which all PSUs expire. Additional PSUs are credited to the accounts of participants in an amount equal to 
the dividends declared on the Bank’s common shares and vest evenly over the same period as the reference PSUs. The PSU Plan contains provisions for retiring 
employees whereby participants may continue vesting units in accordance with the stated terms of the award agreement.  

During the year ended October 31, 2019, the Bank awarded 351,956 PSUs at a weighted average price of $60.07 (287,206 PSUs at a weighted average price of 
$63.57 for the year ended October 31, 2018). As at October 31, 2019, a total of 843,250 PSUs were outstanding (969,322 PSUs as at October 31, 2018). A 
compensation  expense  of  $29  million  was  recognized  for  the  year  ended  October  31,  2019  with  respect  to  this  plan  ($21  million  for  the  year  ended 
October 31, 2018). 

DDeeffeerrrreedd  CCoommppeennssaattiioonn  PPllaann  ooff  NNaattiioonnaall  BBaannkk  FFiinnaanncciiaall  ((NNBBFF))  
This plan is exclusively for key employees of NBF Wealth Management. The purpose of this plan is to foster the retention of key employees and promote the 
growth  in  income  and  the  continuous  improvement  in  profitability  at  Wealth  Management.  Under  this  plan,  participants  can  defer  a  portion  of  their  annual 
compensation, and NBF may pay a contribution to key employees when certain financial objectives are met. Amounts awarded by NBF and the compensation 
deferred by participants are invested in, among others, Bank common share units. These share units represent a right, the value of which corresponds to the 
closing price of the Bank’s common share on the Toronto Stock Exchange on the award date. Additional units are paid to the accounts of participants in an 
amount equal to the dividends declared on Bank common shares. Share units representing the amounts awarded by NBF vest evenly over four years. When a 
participant retires, or in certain cases when the participant’s employment is terminated, the participant receives a cash amount representing the value of the 
vested share units.  

During the year ended October 31, 2019, NBF awarded 147,927 share units at a weighted average price of $59.94 (132,544 share units at a weighted average 
price of $63.63 for the year ended October 31, 2018). As at October 31, 2019, a total of 1,764,789 share units were outstanding (1,618,166 share units as at 
October 31,  2018).  During  the  year  ended  October  31,  2019,  a  $22  million  compensation  expense  was  recognized  for  this  plan  (recovery  of  a  $3  million 
compensation expense related to a decline in share value for the year ended October 31, 2018). 

EEmmppllooyyeeee  SShhaarree  OOwwnneerrsshhiipp  PPllaann  
Under the Bank’s Employee Share Ownership Plan, employees who meet the eligibility criteria can contribute up to 8% of their annual gross salary by way of 
payroll deductions. The Bank matches 25% of the employee contribution up to a maximum of $1,500 per annum. Bank contributions vest to the employee after 
one year of uninterrupted participation in the plan. Subsequent contributions vest immediately. The Bank’s contributions, amounting to $12 million for the year 
ended October 31, 2019 ($9 million for the year ended October 31, 2018), were charged to Compensation and employee benefits when paid. As at October 31, 
2019, a total of 5,813,172 common shares were held for this plan (5,718,242 common shares as at October 31, 2018). 

Plan shares are purchased on the open market and are considered to be outstanding for earnings per share calculations. Dividends paid on the Bank’s common 
shares held for the Employee Share Ownership Plan are used to purchase other common shares on the open market. 

PPllaann  LLiiaabbiilliittiieess  aanndd  IInnttrriinnssiicc  VVaalluuee  
Total liabilities arising from the Bank’s share-based compensation plans amounted to $549 million as at October 31, 2019 ($494 million as at October 31, 2018). 
The intrinsic value of these liabilities that had vested as at October 31, 2019 was $217 million ($182 million as at October 31, 2018). 

188

188 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
 
  
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

NNoottee  2233  ––  EEmmppllooyyeeee  BBeenneeffiittss  ––  PPeennssiioonn  PPllaannss  aanndd  OOtthheerr  PPoosstt--EEmmppllooyymmeenntt  BBeenneeffiittss  

The Bank offers defined benefit pension plans and other post-employment benefit plans to eligible employees. The pension plans provide benefits based on 
years  of  plan  participation  and  average  earnings  at  retirement.  The  other  post-employment  benefit  plans  include  post-retirement  medical,  dental  and  life 
insurance coverage. The pension plans are funded whereas the other plans are not funded. The fair value of plan assets and the present value of the defined 
benefit obligation are measured as at October 31. 

The Bank’s most significant pension plan is the Employee Pension Plan of the National Bank of Canada; it is registered with OSFI and the Canada Revenue Agency 
and subject to the Pension Benefits Standards Act, 1985 and the Income Tax Act. 

The defined benefit plans expose the Bank to specific risks such as investment performance, changes to the discount rate used to calculate the obligation, the 
longevity of plan members and future inflation. While management believes that the assumptions used in the actuarial valuation process are reasonable, there 
remains a degree of risk and uncertainty that may cause future results to differ significantly from these assumptions, which could give rise to gains or losses. 

According to the Bank’s governance rules, the policies and risk management related to the defined benefit plans are overseen at different levels by the pension 
committees, the Bank’s management and the Board’s Human Resources Committee. The defined benefit plans are examined on an ongoing basis in order to 
monitor the funding and investment policies, the plans’ financial status and the Bank’s funding requirements. 

The Bank’s funding policy for the defined benefit pension plans is to make at least the minimum annual contributions required by pension regulators.  

For funded plans, the Bank determines whether an economic benefit exists in the form of potential reductions in future contributions and in the form of refunds 
from the plan surplus, where permitted by applicable regulations and plan provisions. 

DDeeffiinneedd  BBeenneeffiitt  OObblliiggaattiioonn,,  PPllaann  AAsssseettss  aanndd  FFuunnddeedd  SSttaattuuss  

As at October 31 

DDeeffiinneedd  bbeenneeffiitt  oobblliiggaattiioonn  
Balance at beginning 
  Current service cost 
  Interest cost 
  Remeasurements 
    Actuarial (gains) losses arising from changes in demographic assumptions  
    Actuarial (gains) losses arising from changes in financial assumptions  
    Actuarial (gains) losses arising from experience adjustments  
  Employee contributions 
  Benefits paid 
Balance at end 

PPllaann  aasssseettss  
Fair value at beginning 
  Interest income 
  Administration cost 
  Remeasurements 
    Return on plan assets (excluding interest income) 
  Bank contributions(1) 
  Employee contributions 
  Benefits paid 
Fair value at end 
DDeeffiinneedd  bbeenneeffiitt  aasssseett  ((lliiaabbiilliittyy))  aatt  eenndd  

22001199  

33,,886644  
9933  
115588  

((112211))  
771122  
114411  
5533  
((119977))  
44,,770033  

33,,991188  
115577  
((44))  

557755  
6677  
5533  
((119977))  
44,,556699  
((113344))  

Pension plans 
2018 

Other post-employment benefit plans 
2018   

22001199  

3,984 
114 
148 

37 
(276) 
− 
47 
(190) 
3,864 

3,979 
144 
(4) 

(116) 
58 
47 
(190) 
3,918 
54 

117766  
33  
66  

88  
1188  
−−  

((99))  
220022  

191 
5 
7 

− 
(16) 
(1) 

(10) 
176 

((220022))  

(176) 

(1) 

For fiscal 2020, the Bank expects to pay an employer contribution of $62 million to the defined benefit pension plans. 

National Bank of Canada 

189

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Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Note 23 – Employee Benefits – Pension Plans and Other Post-Employment Benefits (cont.) 

DDeeffiinneedd  BBeenneeffiitt  AAsssseett  ((LLiiaabbiilliittyy))    

As at October 31 

Defined benefit asset included in Other assets 
Defined benefit liability included in Other liabilities 

22001199    

3388
((117722))
((113344))

Pension plans 
2018 

Other post-employment benefit plans 
2018 

22001199  

64 
(10)   
54 

((220022))
((220022))

(176) 
(176) 

Pension plans  
2018 

Other post-employment benefit plans  
2018  

22001199  

CCoosstt  ffoorr  PPeennssiioonn  PPllaannss  aanndd  OOtthheerr  PPoosstt--EEmmppllooyymmeenntt  BBeenneeffiittss    

Year ended October 31 

Current service cost 
Interest expense (income), net 
Administration costs 
EExxppeennssee  rreeccooggnniizzeedd  iinn  NNeett  iinnccoommee  
RReemmeeaassuurreemmeennttss(1)  
  Actuarial (gains) losses on defined benefit obligation 
  Return on plan assets(2) 
RReemmeeaassuurreemmeennttss  rreeccooggnniizzeedd  iinn  OOtthheerr  ccoommpprreehheennssiivvee  iinnccoommee  

22001199    

9933     
11     
44     
9988     

773322     
((557755))    
115577     
225555     

114 
4 
4 
122 

(239) 
116 
(123) 
(1) 

33  
66  

99  

2266  

2266  
3355  

(1) 
(2) 

Changes related to the discount rate and to the return on plan assets are reviewed and updated on a quarterly basis. All other assumptions are updated annually. 
Excluding interest income. 

AAllllooccaattiioonn  ooff  tthhee  FFaaiirr  VVaalluuee  ooff  PPeennssiioonn  PPllaann  AAsssseettss  

As at October 31 

Asset classes 
  Cash and cash equivalents 
  Equity securities 
  Debt securities 
    Canadian government 
    Canadian provincial and municipal governments 
    Other issuers 
  Other 

QQuuootteedd  
iinn  aann  aaccttiivvee  
mmaarrkkeett(1)  

NNoott  qquuootteedd  
iinn  aann  aaccttiivvee  
mmaarrkkeett  

−−
11,,445588

330066
−−
−−
−−
11,,776644

6633
447788

−−
11,,449911
557711
220022
22,,880055

22001199  

TToottaall  

6633
11,,993366

330066
11,,449911
557711
220022
44,,556699

Quoted 
in an active 
market(1) 

Not quoted 
in an active 
market 

− 
1,482 

223 
− 
− 
− 
1,705 

91
482

−
1,115
383
142
2,213

5 
7 

12 

(17) 

(17) 
(5) 

2018  

Total  

91 
1,964 

223 
1,115 
383 
142    
3,918    

(1) 

Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets that the Bank can access at the measurement date.  

The Bank’s investment strategy for plan assets considers several factors, including the time horizon of pension plan obligations and investment risk. For each 
plan, an allocation range per asset class is defined using a mix of equity and debt securities to optimize the risk-return profile of plan assets and minimize 
asset/liability mismatching. 

The pension plan assets may include investment securities issued by the Bank. As at October 31, 2019 and 2018, the pension plan assets do not include any 
securities issued by the Bank. 

For  fiscal  2019,  the  Bank  and  its  related  entities  received  $3  million  ($5  million  in  fiscal  2018)  in  fees  from  the  pension  plans  for  related  management, 
administration and custodial services. 

190

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Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

AAllllooccaattiioonn  ooff  tthhee  DDeeffiinneedd  BBeenneeffiitt  OObblliiggaattiioonn  bbyy  tthhee  SSttaattuuss  ooff    
DDeeffiinneedd  BBeenneeffiitt  PPllaann  PPaarrttiicciippaannttss  

As at October 31 

Active employees 
Retirees 
Participants with deferred vested benefits 

WWeeiigghhtteedd  aavveerraaggee  dduurraattiioonn  ooff  tthhee    
   ddeeffiinneedd  bbeenneeffiitt  oobblliiggaattiioonn  (in years)  

22001199  

4422   %%    
5522   %%    
66   %%    
110000   %%    

1177  

Pension plans 
2018 

Other post-employment benefit plans 
2018 

22001199  

45  % 
51  % 
4  % 
100  % 

16 

2222   %%  
7788   %%  

31  % 
69  % 

110000   %%  

100  % 

1133  

14 

SSiiggnniiffiiccaanntt  AAccttuuaarriiaall  AAssssuummppttiioonnss  ((WWeeiigghhtteedd  AAvveerraaggee))    

Discount Rate 
The discount rate assumption is based on an interest rate curve that represents the yields on corporate AA bonds. Short-term maturities are obtained using a 
curve based on observed data from corporate AA bonds. Long-term maturities are obtained using a curve based on observed data and extrapolated data. 

To measure the pension plan and other post-employment plan obligation, the vested benefits that the Bank expects to pay in each future period are discounted 
to the measurement date using the spot rate associated with each of the respective periods based on the yield curve derived using the above methodology. The 
sum of discounted benefit amounts represents the defined benefit obligation. An average discount rate that replicates this obligation is then computed.  

To better reflect current service cost, a separate discount rate was determined to account for the timing of future benefit payments associated with the additional 
year of service to be earned by the plan’s active participants. Since these benefits are, on average, being paid at a later date than the benefits already earned by 
participants as a whole (i.e., longer duration), this method results in the use of a generally higher discount rate for calculating current service cost than that used 
to measure obligations where the yield curve is positively sloped. The methodology used to determine this discount rate is the same as the one used to establish 
the discount rate for measuring the obligation. 

Other Assumptions 
For measurement purposes, the estimated annual growth rate for health care costs was 5.17% as at October 31, 2019 (5.23% as at October 31, 2018). Based 
on the assumption retained, this rate is expected to decrease gradually to 3.50% in 2038 and remain steady thereafter.  

Mortality assumptions are a determining factor when measuring the defined benefit obligation. Determining the expected benefit payout period is based on best 
estimate  assumptions  regarding  mortality.  Mortality  tables  are  reviewed  at  least  once  a  year,  and  the  assumptions  made  are  in  accordance  with  accepted 
actuarial practice. New results regarding the plans are reviewed and used in calculating best estimates of future mortality. 

As at October 31 

DDeeffiinneedd  bbeenneeffiitt  oobblliiggaattiioonn  
  Discount rate 
  Rate of compensation increase 
  Health care cost trend rate 
  Life expectancy (in years)  at 65 for a participant currently at 
    Age 65 
      Men 
      Women 
    Age 45 
      Men 
      Women 

22001199  

33..1100   %%  
33..0000   %%  

2211..33     
2233..66     

2222..33     
2244..66  

Pension plans  
2018 

Other post-employment benefit plans  
2018 

22001199  

4.05  % 
3.00  % 

21.2   
23.6   

22.3   
24.5 

33..1100   %%  
33..0000   %%  
55..1177   %%  

2211..33     
2233..66     

2222..33     
2244..66     

4.05  % 
3.00  % 
5.23  % 

21.2   
23.6   

22.3   
24.5   

National Bank of Canada 

191

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Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Note 23 – Employee Benefits – Pension Plans and Other Post-Employment Benefits (cont.) 

Year ended October 31 

PPeennssiioonn  ppllaann  eexxppeennssee  
Discount rate – Current service 
Discount rate – Interest expense (income), net 
Rate of compensation increase 
Health care cost trend rate 
Life expectancy (in years) at 65 for a participant currently at 
Age 65 
Men 
Women 
Age 45 
Men 
Women 

22001199  

Pension plans 
2018 

Other post-employment benefit plans 
2018 

22001199  

44..1155   %%  
44..0055   %%  
33..0000   %%  

3.75  % 
3.65  % 
3.00  % 

2211..22  
2233..66  

2222..33  
2244..55  

21.2 
23.5 

22.2 
24.5 

44..1155   %%  
44..0055   %%  
33..0000   %%  
55..2233   %%  

2211..22  
2233..66  

2222..33  
2244..55  

3.75  % 
3.65  % 
3.00  % 
5.28  % 

21.2 
23.5 

22.2 
24.5 

SSeennssiittiivviittyy  ooff  SSiiggnniiffiiccaanntt  AAssssuummppttiioonnss  ffoorr  22001199    

The following table shows the potential impacts of changes to key assumptions on the defined benefit obligation of the pension plans and other post-employment 
benefit plans as at October 31, 2019. These impacts are hypothetical and should be interpreted with caution as changes in each significant assumption may not 
be linear. 

Impact of a 0.25% increase in the discount rate 
Impact of a 0.25% decrease in the discount rate 
Impact of a 0.25% increase in the rate of compensation increase 
Impact of a 0.25% decrease in the rate of compensation increase 
Impact of a 1.00% increase in the health care cost trend rate 
Impact of a 1.00% decrease in the health care cost trend rate 
Impact of an increase in the age of participants by one year 
Impact of a decrease in the age of participants by one year 

PPrroojjeecctteedd  BBeenneeffiitt  PPaayymmeennttss  

Year ended October 31 

2020 
2021 
2022 
2023 
2024 
2025 to 2029 

192

Pension plans  
Change in the obligation   

Other post-employment 
benefit plans  
Change in the obligation   

(191)   
204    
34    
(35)   

(123)  
119   

(5)   
5    
−    
−    
9   
(7)  
(3)  
3   

Pension plans 

Other post-employment 
benefit plans  

203   
209   
215   
221   
228   
1,247   

9   
9   
9   
9   
9   
38   

192 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
   
 
    
  
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
  
  
     
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

NNoottee  2244  ––  IInnccoommee  TTaaxxeess     

The Bank’s income tax expense reported in the consolidated financial statements is as follows. 

Year ended October 31 

CCoonnssoolliiddaatteedd  SSttaatteemmeenntt  ooff  IInnccoommee  
CCuurrrreenntt  ttaaxxeess  
  Current year 
  Prior period adjustments 

DDeeffeerrrreedd  ttaaxxeess  
  Origination and reversal of temporary differences 
  Prior period adjustments 

CCoonnssoolliiddaatteedd  SSttaatteemmeenntt  ooff  CChhaannggeess  iinn  EEqquuiittyy  
  Share issuance expense and other  
CCoonnssoolliiddaatteedd  SSttaatteemmeenntt  ooff  CCoommpprreehheennssiivvee  IInnccoommee  
  Remeasurements of pension plans and other post-employment benefit plans 
  Net change in cash flow hedges 
  Other 

IInnccoommee  ttaaxxeess  

The breakdown of the income tax expense is as follows. 

Year ended October 31 

Current taxes 
Deferred taxes 

22001199  

2018  

664477
2222
666699

((118888))
((1199))
((220077))
446622

−−

((4488))
((5577))
22
((110033))
335599

22001199  

661177
((225588))
335599

504   
16   
520   

15   
9   
24   
544   

(5)  

37   
2   
2   
41   
580   

2018  

523   
57   
580   

The temporary differences and tax loss carryforwards resulting in deferred tax assets and liabilities are as follows.   

DDeeffeerrrreedd  ttaaxx  aasssseettss  
Allowances for credit losses 
Deferred charges 
Defined benefit liability – Pension plans 
Defined benefit liability – Other post-employment 
  benefit plans 
Investments in associates 
Deferred revenue 
Tax loss carryforwards 
Other items(2)(3) 

DDeeffeerrrreedd  ttaaxx  lliiaabbiilliittiieess  
Premises and equipment and intangible assets 
Defined benefit asset – Pension plans 
Investments in associates 
Other items 

NNeett  ddeeffeerrrreedd  ttaaxx  aasssseettss  ((lliiaabbiilliittiieess))  

As at October 31  
Consolidated 
Balance Sheet 
2018(1) 

22001199    

Year ended October 31 
Consolidated Statement 
of Income 
2018(1) 

22001199  

Year ended October 31  
Consolidated Statement 
of Comprehensive Income 
2018  

22001199  

115500
226644
7788

5500
7755
4411
9955
4444
779977

((114400))
((3333))
((1166))
((5511))
((224400))
555577

143 
233 
36 

54 
54 
38 
26 
26 
610 

(207) 
(41) 
(31) 
(32) 
(311) 
299 

77
3311
−−

((1100))
2211
33
6699
1177
113388

6677
88
1155
((2211))
6699
220077

(16) 
(13) 
− 

− 
14 
− 
2 
(49) 
(62) 

(8) 
16 
(6) 
36 
38 
(24) 

−−
−−
4422

66
−−
−−
−−
−−
4488

−−
−−
−−
22
22
5500

−   
−   
(33)  

(2)  
−   
−   
−   
−   
(35)  

−   
(2)  
−   
(1)  
(3)  
(38)  

(1) 
(2) 

(3) 

For the year ended October 31, 2018, certain amounts have been reclassified. 
As at October 31, 2019, the Consolidated Balance Sheet includes a negligible amount in deferred tax assets related to share issuance costs ($5 million as at October 31, 2018) reported in 
Retained earnings on the Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity. 
As at November 1, 2018, as a result of adjustments upon IFRS 15 adoption, Deferred tax assets and Retained earnings increased by $1 million.  

National Bank of Canada 

193

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
   
    
    
 
   
   
 
    
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
  
 
 
    
    
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
    
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
    
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Note 24 – Income Taxes (cont.) 

Net deferred tax assets are included in Other assets and net deferred tax liabilities are included in Other liabilities. 

As at October 31 

Deferred tax assets 
Deferred tax liabilities 

22001199  

556622
((55))
555577

2018 

324   
(25)  
299   

According to forecasts, which are based on information available on October 31, 2019, the Bank believes that it is probable that the results of future operations 
will generate sufficient taxable income to utilize all the deferred tax assets before they expire. 

As at October 31, 2019, the total amount of temporary differences, unused tax loss carryforwards and unused tax credits for which no deferred tax asset has 
been recognized was $508 million ($369 million as at October 31, 2018). 

As at October 31, 2019, the total amount of temporary differences related to investments in subsidiaries, associates, and joint ventures for which no deferred 
tax liability has been recognized was $3,184 million ($1,972  million as at October 31, 2018). 

The following table provides a reconciliation of the Bank’s income tax rate. 

Year ended October 31 

Income before income taxes  
Income taxes at Canadian statutory income tax rate 
Reduction in income tax rate due to 
  Tax-exempt income from securities 
  Non-taxable portion of capital gains 
  Tax rates of subsidiaries, foreign entities and associates 
  Other items 

Income taxes reported in the Consolidated Statement of Income and  
  effective income tax rate  

NNoottiiccee  ooff  AAsssseessssmmeenntt  

$$  

22,,778844
774411

((220088))
((1177))
((6677))
1133
((227799))

446622

22001199  
%%  

110000..00 
2266..66 

((77..55)) 
((00..66)) 
((22..44)) 
00..55 
((1100..00)) 

1166..66 

$  

2,776
741

(161)
(6)
(36)
6
(197)

544

2018  
%  

100.0   
26.7   

(5.8)  
(0.2)  
(1.3)  
0.2   
(7.1)  

19.6   

In June 2019, the Bank was reassessed by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) for additional income tax and interest of approximately $150 million (including 
estimated provincial tax and interest) in respect of certain Canadian dividends received by the Bank during 2014.   

In prior fiscal years, the Bank was reassessed for additional income tax and interest of approximately $220 million (including provincial tax and interest) in 
respect of certain Canadian dividends received by the Bank during the 2013 and 2012 taxation years. 

The transactions to which the above-mentioned reassessments relate are similar to those prospectively addressed by income tax legislation enacted as a result 
of the 2015 Canadian federal budget. 

The  CRA  may  issue  reassessments  to  the  Bank  for  taxation  years  subsequent  to  2014  in  regard  to  activities  similar  to  those  that  were  the  subject  of  the 
above-mentioned reassessments. The Bank remains confident that its tax position was appropriate and intends to vigorously defend its position. As a result, no 
amount has been recognized in the consolidated financial statements as at October 31, 2019. 

194

194 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
     
 
     
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
     
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

NNoottee  2255  ––  EEaarrnniinnggss  PPeerr  SShhaarree    

Diluted  earnings  per  share  is  calculated  by  dividing  net  income  attributable  to  common  shareholders  by  the  weighted  average  number  of  common  shares 
outstanding after taking into account the dilution effect of stock options using the treasury stock method and any gain (loss) on the redemption of preferred 
shares. 

Year ended October 31 

22001199    

2018  

BBaassiicc  eeaarrnniinnggss  ppeerr  sshhaarree    
Net income attributable to the Bank’s shareholders  
Dividends on preferred shares 
Net income attributable to common shareholders   
Weighted average basic number of common shares outstanding (thousands) 
BBaassiicc  eeaarrnniinnggss  ppeerr  sshhaarree  (dollars)  

DDiilluutteedd  eeaarrnniinnggss  ppeerr  sshhaarree    
Net income attributable to common shareholders 
Weighted average basic number of common shares outstanding (thousands) 
Adjustment to average number of common shares (thousands) 
  Stock options(1) 
Weighted average diluted number of common shares outstanding (thousands) 
DDiilluutteedd  eeaarrnniinnggss  ppeerr  sshhaarree  (dollars)  

22,,225566
111166
22,,114400
333355,,110044
66..3399

22,,114400
333355,,110044

22,,552266
333377,,663300
66..3344

2,145   
105   
2,040   
339,372   
6.01    

2,040   
339,372   

3,868   
343,240   
5.94    

(1) 

For the year ended October 31, 2019, the calculation of the diluted earnings per share excluded an average number of 1,775,598 options outstanding with a weighted average exercise price 
of $64.14 (1,621,740 options outstanding with a weighted average exercise price of $64.14 for the year ended October 31, 2018), as the exercise price of these options was greater than the 
average price of the Bank’s common shares.  

NNoottee  2266  ––  GGuuaarraanntteeeess,,  CCoommmmiittmmeennttss  aanndd  CCoonnttiinnggeenntt  LLiiaabbiilliittiieess  

GGuuaarraanntteeeess  

The  maximum  potential  amount  of  future  payments  represents  the  maximum  risk  of  loss  if  there  were  a  total  default  by  the  guaranteed  parties,  without 
consideration of recoveries under recourse provisions, insurance policies or from collateral held or pledged. The maximum potential amount of future payments 
for significant guarantees issued by the Bank is presented in the following table. 

As at October 31 

Letters of guarantee(1) 
Backstop liquidity, credit enhancement facilities and other(1) 
Securities lending 

22001199    

55,,223311
55,,665555
228800

2018  

4,353    
4,878    
227    

(1) 

For additional information on allowances for credit losses related to off-balance-sheet commitments, refer to Note 7 to these consolidated financial statements. 

LLeetttteerrss  ooff  GGuuaarraanntteeee  
In the normal course of business, the Bank issues letters of guarantee. These letters of guarantee represent irrevocable commitments that the Bank will make 
payments in the event that a client cannot meet its financial obligations to third parties. The Bank’s policy for requiring collateral security with respect to letters 
of guarantee is similar to that for loans. Generally, the term of these letters of guarantee is less than two years. 

BBaacckkssttoopp  LLiiqquuiiddiittyy  aanndd  CCrreeddiitt  EEnnhhaanncceemmeenntt  FFaacciilliittiieess  
Facilities to Multi-Seller Conduits 
The Bank administers multi-seller conduits that purchase financial assets from clients and finance those purchases by issuing asset-backed commercial paper. 
The Bank provides backstop liquidity facilities to these multi-seller conduits. As at October 31, 2019, the notional amount of the global-style backstop liquidity 
facilities totalled $2.6 billion ($2.6 billion as at October 31, 2018), representing the total amount of the commercial paper outstanding.  

These backstop liquidity facilities can be drawn if the conduits are unable to access the commercial paper market, even if there is no general market disruption. 
These facilities have terms of less than one year and can be periodically renewed. The terms and conditions of these backstop liquidity facilities do not require 
the Bank to advance money to the conduits if the conduits are insolvent or involved in bankruptcy proceedings or to fund non-performing assets beyond the 
amount of the available credit enhancements. The backstop liquidity facilities provided by the Bank have not been drawn to date.  

National Bank of Canada 

195

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Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Note 26 – Guarantees, Commitments and Contingent Liabilities (cont.) 

The  Bank  also  provides  credit  enhancement facilities  to  these  multi-seller  conduits.  These  facilities  have  terms  of  less  than  one  year  and  are  automatically 
renewable unless the Bank sends a non-renewal notice. As at October 31, 2019 and 2018, the committed notional value for these facilities was $30 million. To 
date, the credit enhancement facilities provided by the Bank have not been drawn. 

The maximum risk of loss for the Bank cannot exceed the total amount of commercial paper outstanding, i.e., $2.6 billion as at October 31, 2019 ($2.6 billion 
as at October 31, 2018). As at October 31, 2019, the Bank held $13 million ($7 million as at October 31, 2018) of this commercial paper and, consequently, the 
maximum potential amount of future payments was $2.6 billion ($2.6 billion as at October 31, 2018). 

CDCC Overnight Liquidity Facility 
Canadian Derivatives Clearing Corporation (CDCC) acts as a central clearing counterparty for multiple financial instrument transactions in Canada. Certain fixed-
income clearing members of CDCC have provided an equally shared committed and uncommitted global overnight liquidity facility for the purpose of supporting 
CDCC in its clearing activities of securities purchased under reverse repurchase agreements or sold under repurchase agreements. The objective of this facility 
is to maintain sufficient liquidity in the event of a clearing member’s default. As a fixed-income clearing member providing support to CDCC, the Bank provides 
a liquidity facility. As at October 31, 2019, the notional amount of the overnight uncommitted liquidity facility amounted to $3.0 billion ($2.3 billion as at October 
31, 2018). As at October 31, 2019 and 2018, no amount had been drawn.   

SSeeccuurriittiieess  LLeennddiinngg  
Under securities lending agreements the Bank has entered into with certain clients who have entrusted it with the safekeeping of their securities, the Bank lends 
the securities to third parties and indemnifies its clients in the event of loss. In order to protect itself against any contingent loss, the Bank obtains, as security 
from the borrower, a cash amount or extremely liquid marketable securities with a fair value greater than that of the securities loaned. No amount has been 
recognized on the Consolidated Balance Sheet with respect to potential indemnities resulting from securities lending agreements. 

OOtthheerr  IInnddeemmnniiffiiccaattiioonn  AAggrreeeemmeennttss  
In  the  normal  course  of  business,  including  securitization  transactions  and  discontinuances  of  businesses  and  operations,  the  Bank  enters  into  numerous 
contractual agreements under which it undertakes to compensate the counterparty for costs incurred as a result of litigation, changes in laws and regulations 
(including tax legislation), claims with respect to past performance, incorrect representations or the non-performance of certain restrictive covenants. The Bank 
also undertakes to indemnify any person acting as a director or officer or performing a similar function within the Bank or one of its subsidiaries or another entity, 
at the request of the Bank, for all expenses incurred by that person in proceedings or investigations to which he or she is party in that capacity. Moreover, as a 
member of a securities transfer network and pursuant  to the membership agreement and the regulations governing the operation of the network, the Bank 
granted  collateral  in  favour  of  the  Bank  of  Canada  to  guarantee  any  obligation  of  the  Bank  towards  the  Bank  of  Canada  that  could  result  from  the  Bank’s 
participation in the securities transfer network. The durations of the indemnification agreements vary according to circumstance; as at October 31, 2019 and 
2018, given the nature of the agreements, the Bank is unable to make a reasonable estimate of the maximum potential liability it could be required to pay to 
counterparties. No amount has been recorded on the Consolidated Balance Sheet with respect to these agreements. 

CCoommmmiittmmeennttss  

CCrreeddiitt  IInnssttrruummeennttss 
In the normal course of business, the Bank enters into various off-balance-sheet commitments. The credit instruments used to meet the financing needs of its 
clients represent the maximum amount of additional credit the Bank could be obligated to extend if the commitments were fully drawn. 

As at October 31 

Letters of guarantee(1) 
Documentary letters of credit(2) 
Credit card receivables(3) 
Commitments to extend credit(3) 

22001199  

55,,223311
116633
77,,663300
6622,,112244

2018  

4,353    
142    
7,874    
57,794    

(1) 
(2) 

(3) 

See the Letters of Guarantee heading on page 195. 
Documentary letters of credit are documents issued by the Bank and used in international trade to enable a third party to draw drafts on the Bank up to an amount established under specific 
terms and conditions; these instruments are collateralized by the delivery of the goods to which they are related. 
Credit  card  receivables  and  commitments  to  extend  credit  represent  the  undrawn  portions  of  credit  authorizations  granted  in  the  form  of  loans,  acceptances,  letters  of  guarantee  and 
documentary letters of credit. The Bank is required at all times to make the undrawn portion of the credit authorization available, subject to certain conditions. 

FFiinnaanncciiaall  AAsssseettss  RReecceeiivveedd  aass  CCoollllaatteerraall  
As at October 31, 2019, the fair value of financial assets received as collateral that the Bank was authorized to sell or repledge was $55.3 billion ($57.5 billion 
as at October 31, 2018). These financial assets received as collateral consist of securities related to securities financing and derivative transactions as well as 
securities purchased under reverse repurchase agreements and securities borrowed. 

196

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National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
  
 
   
    
    
 
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

OOtthheerr  CCoommmmiittmmeennttss    
The Bank acts as an investor in investment banking activities where it enters into agreements to finance external private equity funds and investments in equity 
and  debt  securities  at  market  value  at  the  time  the  agreements  are  signed.  In  connection  with  these  activities,  the  Bank  has  commitments  to  invest  up  to 
$92 million as at October 31, 2019 ($99 million as at October 31, 2018). In addition, through one of its subsidiaries, the Bank purchases retail loans originated 
by other financial institutions at market value at the time of purchase. As at October 31, 2019, the Bank had commitments to purchase loans of up to $1.6 billion.  

PPlleeddggeedd  AAsssseettss  
In the normal course of business, the Bank pledges securities and other assets as collateral. A breakdown of encumbered assets pledged as collateral is provided 
in the following table. These transactions are concluded in accordance with standard terms and conditions for such transactions. 

As at October 31 

22001199  

2018  

Assets pledged to 
  Bank of Canada 
  Direct clearing organizations(1) 
Assets pledged in relation to 
  Derivative financial instrument transactions 
  Borrowing, securities lending and securities sold under reverse repurchase agreements 
  Securitization transactions 
  Covered bonds(2) 
  Other 
TToottaall  

550022
11,,005522

22,,882222
4411,,994466
2233,,229999
1100,,330000
44
7799,,992255

502    
1,130    

1,652    
41,378    
22,083    
8,995    
125    
75,865    

(1) 
(2) 

Includes assets pledged as collateral for Large Value Transfer System (LVTS) activities. 
The Bank has a covered bond program. For additional information, see Notes 13 and 27 to these consolidated financial statements. 

CCoonnttiinnggeenntt  LLiiaabbiilliittiieess  

MMaappllee  FFiinnaanncciiaall  GGrroouupp  IInncc..  
The Bank has a 24.9% equity interest in Maple Financial Group Inc. (Maple), a privately owned Canadian company that operated through direct and indirect 
wholly owned subsidiaries in Canada, Germany, the United Kingdom and the United States. 

Maple Bank GmbH (Maple GmbH), an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Maple, has been the subject of an investigation into alleged tax irregularities by German 
prosecutors since September 2015 and, to the Bank’s knowledge, that investigation is ongoing. The Bank understands that the investigation is focusing on 
selected trading activities by Maple GmbH and some of its former employees, primarily during taxation years 2006 to 2010. The German authorities have alleged 
that these trading activities, often referred to as “cum/ex trading,” violated German tax laws. Neither the Bank nor its employees were involved in these trading 
activities and, to the Bank’s knowledge, are not the subject of this investigation. At that time, the Bank announced that if it were determined that portions of the 
dividends it received from Maple could be reasonably attributed to tax fraud by Maple GmbH, arrangements would be made to repay those amounts to the 
relevant authority. 

On February 6, 2016, the German Federal Financial Supervisory Authority, BaFin, placed a moratorium on the business activities of Maple GmbH preventing it 
from carrying out its normal business activities. In August 2016, Maple filed for bankruptcy under applicable Canadian laws, and a trustee was appointed to 
administer the company. Similar proceedings were initiated for each of Maple’s other material subsidiaries in their home jurisdictions. In light of the situation, 
the Bank wrote off the carrying value of its equity interest in Maple in an amount of $164 million ($145 million net of income taxes) during the first quarter of 
2016. The $164 million write-off of the equity interest in this associate was recognized in the Non-interest income – Other item of the Consolidated Statement 
of Income for the year ended October 31, 2016 and was reported in the Financial Markets segment. 

While there has not yet been a determination of tax fraud on the part of Maple GmbH or its employees, in the insolvency proceedings of Maple GmbH the German 
finance office issued a declaration about the result of the tax audit at Maple GmbH and about the relevant tax consequences of the cum/ex trading and concluded 
a final tax claim of the tax authorities against the insolvency administrator. This claim was approved by the Maple GmbH creditor assembly.   

The Bank has been in contact with the German prosecutors, who have confirmed that, in their view based upon the evidence they have considered since the 
occurrence of the insolvency, the Bank was not involved in any respect with the alleged tax fraud undertaken by Maple GmbH nor was it negligent in failing to 
identify that alleged fraud. Further to discussions between the Bank and the German prosecutors concerning the amounts deemed attributable to the alleged 
tax fraud, the Bank paid 7.7 million euros to the German tax authorities on November 19, 2019. 

The Bank has been engaging in discussions with the bankruptcy and insolvency administrators of relevant Maple entities regarding potential claims they may 
assert against Maple’s former shareholders in relation to the insolvency of Maple and its subsidiaries. The Bank does not see a legal basis for any such liability 
but is nevertheless continuing discussions at this time. If any payments are required, they are not expected to be material to the Bank’s financial position. 

National Bank of Canada 

197

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
   
    
    
 
     
    
  
  
  
    
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
  
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Note 26 – Guarantees, Commitments and Contingent Liabilities (cont.) 

LLiittiiggaattiioonn  
In the normal course of business, the Bank and its subsidiaries are involved in various claims relating, among other matters, to loan portfolios, investment 
portfolios and supplier agreements, including court proceedings, investigations or claims of a regulatory nature, class actions or other legal remedies of varied 
natures.  

More specifically, the Bank is involved as a defendant in class actions instituted by consumers contesting, inter alia, certain transaction fees or who wish to avail 
themselves of certain legislative provisions relating to consumer protection. The recent developments in the main legal proceedings involving the Bank are as 
follows: 

Watson 
In 2011, a class action was filed in the Supreme Court of British Columbia against Visa Corporation Canada (Visa) and MasterCard International Incorporated 
(MasterCard) (the Networks) as well as National Bank and a number of other Canadian financial institutions. A similar action was also initiated in Quebec, Ontario, 
Alberta and Saskatchewan. In each of the actions, the Networks and financial institutions are alleged to have been involved in a price-fixing system to maintain 
and increase the fees paid by merchants on transactions executed using the credit cards of the Networks. In so doing, they would notably be in breach of the 
Competition Act. An unspecified amount of compensatory and punitive damages is being claimed. In 2017, a settlement was reached with the plaintiffs; in 2018 
it was approved by the trial courts in each of the five jurisdictions where the action was initiated. The rulings approving the settlement are now the subject of 
appeal proceedings in multiple jurisdictions. 

Defrance 
On January 21, 2019, the Quebec Superior Court authorized a class action against the Bank and several other Canadian financial institutions. The originating 
application was served to the Bank on April 23, 2019. The class action was initiated on behalf of consumers residing in Quebec. The plaintiffs allege that non-
sufficient funds charges, billed by all of the defendants when a payment order is refused due to non-sufficient funds, are illegal and prohibited by the Consumer 
Protection Act. The plaintiffs are claiming, in the form of damages, the repayment of these charges as well as punitive damages. 

It is impossible to determine the outcome of the claims instituted or which may be instituted against the Bank and its subsidiaries. The Bank estimates, based 
on the information at its disposal, that while the amount of contingent liabilities pertaining to these claims, taken individually or in the aggregate, could have a 
material impact on the Bank’s consolidated results of operation for a particular period, it would not have a material adverse impact on the Bank’s consolidated 
financial position.  

198

198 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
  
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

NNoottee  2277  ––  SSttrruuccttuurreedd  EEnnttiittiieess  

A structured entity is an entity created to accomplish a narrow and well-defined objective and is designed so that voting or similar rights are not the dominant 
factor in deciding who controls the entity, such as when any voting rights relate solely to administrative tasks and the relevant activities are directed by means 
of contractual arrangements. Structured entities are assessed for consolidation in accordance with the accounting treatment described in Note 1. The Bank’s 
maximum  exposure  to  loss  resulting  from  its  interests  in  these  structured  entities  consists  primarily  of  the  investments  in  these  entities,  the  fair  value  of 
derivative  financial  instrument  contracts  entered  into  with  them,  and  the  backstop  liquidity  and  credit  enhancement  facilities  granted  to  certain  structured 
entities.  

In  the  normal  course  of  business,  the  Bank  may  enter  into  financing  transactions  with  third-party  structured  entities,  including  commercial  loans,  reverse 
repurchase  agreements,  prime  brokerage  margin  lending,  and  similar  collateralized  lending  transactions.  While  such  transactions  expose  the  Bank  to  the 
counterparty credit risk of the structured entities, this exposure is mitigated by the collateral related to these transactions. The Bank typically has neither power 
nor significant variable returns resulting from financing transactions with structured entities and does not consolidate such entities. Financing transactions with 
third-party-sponsored structured entities are included in the Bank's consolidated financial statements and are not included in the table accompanying this note. 

NNoonn--CCoonnssoolliiddaatteedd  SSttrruuccttuurreedd  EEnnttiittiieess    
Multi-Seller Conduits 
The Bank administers multi-seller conduits that purchase financial assets from clients and finance those purchases by issuing commercial paper backed by the 
assets acquired. Clients use these multi-seller conduits to diversify their funding sources and reduce borrowing costs, while continuing to manage the financial 
assets and providing some amount of first-loss protection. Notes issued by the conduits and held by third parties provide additional credit loss protection. The 
Bank acts as a financial agent and provides these conduits with administrative and transaction structuring services as well as backstop liquidity and credit 
enhancement facilities under the commercial paper program. These facilities are presented and described in Note 26. The Bank has concluded derivative financial 
instrument contracts with these conduits, the fair value of which is presented on the Bank’s Consolidated Balance Sheet. Although the Bank has the ability to 
direct the relevant activities of these conduits, it cannot use its power to affect the amount of the returns it obtains, as it acts as an agent. Consequently, the 
Bank does not control these conduits and does not consolidate them.   

Investment Funds 
The Bank enters into derivative or other financial instrument contracts with third parties to provide them with the desired exposure to certain investment funds. 
The Bank economically hedges the risks related to these derivatives by investing in those investment funds. The Bank can also hold economic interests in certain 
investment funds as part of its investing activities. In addition, the Bank is sponsor and investment manager of mutual funds in which it has insignificant or no 
interest. The Bank does not control the funds where its holdings are not significant as in these circumstances, the Bank either acts only as an agent or does not 
have any power over the relevant activities. In both cases, it does not have significant exposure to the variable returns of the funds.  Therefore, the Bank does 
not consolidate these funds. 

Private Investments 
As  part  of  its  investment  banking  operations,  the  Bank  invests  in  several  limited  liability  partnerships  and  other  incorporated  entities.  These  investment 
companies in turn invest in operating companies with a view to reselling these investments at a profit over the medium or long term. The Bank does not intervene 
in the operations of these entities; its only role is that of an investor. Consequently, it does not control these companies and does not consolidate them.   

Asset-Backed Structured Entities 
The Bank invested in certain asset-backed structured entities. The underlying assets consist of residential mortgages, consumer loans, equipment loans and 
leases. The Bank does not have the ability to direct the relevant activities of these structured entities and has no exposure to their variable returns, other than 
the right to receive interest income and dividend income from its investments. Consequently, the Bank does not control these structured entities and does not 
consolidate them. 

National Bank of Canada 

199

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Note 27 – Structured Entities (cont.) 

The following table presents the carrying amounts of the assets and liabilities relating to the Bank’s interests in non-consolidated structured entities, the Bank’s 
maximum  exposure  to  loss  from  these  interests,  as  well  as  the  total  assets  of  these  structured  entities.  The  structured  entity  Canada  Housing  Trust  is  not 
presented. For additional information, see Note 8 to these consolidated financial statements. 

AAsssseettss  oonn  tthhee  CCoonnssoolliiddaatteedd  BBaallaannccee  SShheeeett  
  Securities at fair value through profit or loss  
  Securities at amortized cost 
  Derivative financial instruments 

As at October 31, 2018 

LLiiaabbiilliittiieess  oonn  tthhee  CCoonnssoolliiddaatteedd  BBaallaannccee  SShheeeett  
  Derivative financial instruments 
As at October 31, 2018 

MMaaxxiimmuumm  eexxppoossuurree  ttoo  lloossss  
  Securities 
  Liquidity, credit enhancement facilities and commitments 

As at October 31, 2018 

TToottaall  aasssseettss  ooff  tthhee  ssttrruuccttuurreedd  eennttiittiieess  
As at October 31, 2018 

MMuullttii--sseelllleerr  
ccoonndduuiittss(1)  

IInnvveessttmmeenntt  
ffuunnddss(2)  

PPrriivvaattee  
iinnvveessttmmeennttss(3)  

AAss  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199    
AAsssseett--bbaacckkeedd  
ssttrruuccttuurreedd  eennttiittiieess(4)  

1133
−−
22
1155
7

−−
26

1155
22,,660088
22,,662233
2,557

22,,664477
2,589

554400 
−− 
−− 
554400 
139 

−− 
− 

554400 
−− 
554400 
139 

11,,997700 
1,054 

8811
−−
−−
8811
86

−−
−

8811
−−
8811
86

448822
492

−−
22,,446622
33
22,,446655
1,450

−−
−

22,,446655
224422
22,,770077
1,552

66,,550066
3,612

(1) 

(2) 
(3) 
(4) 

The main underlying assets, located in Canada, are residential mortgages, automobile loans, automobile inventory financings, and other receivables. As at October 31, 2019, the notional 
committed amount of the global-style liquidity facilities totalled $2.6 billion ($2.6 billion as at October 31, 2018), representing the total amount of commercial paper outstanding. The Bank 
also provides series-wide credit enhancement facilities for a notional committed amount of $30 million ($30 million as at October 31, 2018). The maximum exposure to loss cannot exceed 
the amount of commercial paper outstanding. As at October 31, 2019, the Bank held $13 million in commercial paper ($7 million as at October 31, 2018) and, consequently, the maximum 
potential amount of future payments as at October 31, 2019 is limited to $2.6 billion ($2.6 billion as at October 31, 2018), which represents the undrawn liquidity and credit enhancement 
facilities. 
The underlying assets are various financial instruments and are presented on a net asset basis. Certain investment funds are in a trading portfolio. 
The underlying assets are private investments. The amount of total assets of the structured entities corresponds to the amount for the most recent available period. 
The underlying assets are residential mortgages, consumer loans, equipment loans and leases. 

CCoonnssoolliiddaatteedd  SSttrruuccttuurreedd  EEnnttiittiieess 
Securitization Entity for the Bank’s Credit Card Receivables 
In April 2015, the Bank set up Canadian Credit Card Trust II (CCCT II) to continue its credit card securitization program on a revolving basis and to use the entity 
for capital management and funding purposes.  

The Bank provides first-loss protection against the losses since it retains the excess spread from the portfolio of sold receivables. The excess spread represents 
the  residual  net  interest  income  after  all  the  expenses  related  to  this  structure  have  been  paid.  The  Bank  also  provides  second-loss  protection  as  it  holds 
subordinated notes issued by CCCT II. In addition, the Bank acts as an administrative agent and servicer and as such is responsible for the daily administration 
and management of CCCT II’s credit card receivables. The Bank therefore has the ability to direct the relevant activities of CCCT II and can exercise its power to 
affect the amount of returns it obtains. Consequently, the Bank controls CCCT II and consolidates it. 

Investment Funds  
The Bank enters into derivative or other financial instrument contracts with third parties to provide them with the desired exposure to certain investment funds. 
The Bank economically hedges the risks related to these derivatives by investing in those investment funds. The Bank can also hold economic interests in certain 
investment  funds  as  part  of  its  investing  activities.  The  Bank  controls  the  relevant  activities  of  these  funds  through  its  involvement  as  an  investor  and  its 
significant exposure to their variable returns. Therefore, the Bank consolidates these funds. 

200

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National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
     
 
     
 
 
 
 
 
     
 
 
     
 
 
 
 
     
 
 
 
 
 
     
 
 
     
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Covered Bonds 
NBC Covered Bond Guarantor (Legislative) Limited Partnership 
In December 2013, the Bank established the covered bond legislative program under which covered bonds are issued. It therefore created NBC Covered Bond 
Guarantor (Legislative) Limited Partnership (the Guarantor) to guarantee payment of the principal and interest owed to the bondholders. The Bank sold uninsured 
residential mortgages to the Guarantor and granted it loans to facilitate the acquisition of these assets. The Bank acts as manager of the partnership and has 
decision-making authority over its relevant activities in accordance with the contractual terms governing the covered bond legislative program. In addition, the 
Bank is able, in accordance with the contractual terms governing the covered bond legislative program, to affect the variable returns of the partnership, which 
are directly related to the return on the mortgage loan portfolio and the interest on the loans from the Bank. Consequently, the Bank controls the partnership 
and consolidates it. 

NBC Asset Trust 
The Bank created NBC Asset Trust for its funding and capital management needs. The securities issued by this trust constitute innovative capital instruments 
and are eligible as additional Tier 1 capital, but because these instruments do not satisfy the non-viability contingent capital requirements, they are to be phased 
out at a rate of 10% per year between 2013 and 2022. For additional information, see Note 19 to these consolidated financial statements. The issuance proceeds 
were used to acquire, from the Bank, residential mortgage loans. The Bank continues to administer these loans and is committed to repurchase from NBC Asset 
Trust the capital balance and unpaid accrued interest on any loan that is more than 90 days past due. The Bank also manages day-to-day operations and holds 
the special voting securities of the trust. After the distribution has been paid to the holders of the trust capital securities, the Bank, as the sole holder of the 
special trust securities, is entitled to receive the balance of net residual funds. Therefore, the Bank has the ability to direct the relevant activities of NBC Asset 
Trust and can use its power to affect the amount of returns it obtains. Consequently, the Bank controls this trust and consolidates it. 

Third-Party Structured Entities 
In 2018, the Bank, through one of its subsidiaries, provided financing to a third-party structured entity in exchange for a 100% interest in a loan portfolio, the 
sole asset held by that entity. The Bank controls and therefore consolidates the structured entity, as it has the ability to direct the entity’s relevant activities 
through its involvement in the decision-making process. The Bank is also exposed to the entity’s variable returns. 

The following table presents the Bank’s investments and other assets in the consolidated structured entities as well as the total assets of these entities. 

As at October 31 

CCoonnssoolliiddaatteedd  ssttrruuccttuurreedd  eennttiittiieess  
Securitization entity for the Bank’s credit card receivables(2)(3) 
Investment funds(4) 
Covered bonds(5) 
Building(6) 
NBC Asset Trust(7) 
Third-party structured entities(8) 

IInnvveessttmmeennttss  
aanndd  ootthheerr  aasssseettss  

884499
228866
1166,,116677
−−
770000
223322
1188,,223344

22001199    

TToottaall  
aasssseettss(1)  

11,,776655 
331111 
1166,,551155 
−− 
11,,006633 
223322 
1199,,888866 

Investments 
and other assets 

898
289
12,886
61
700
305
15,139

2018  

Total 
assets(1) 

2,053 
310 
13,153 
54 
1,060 
305 
16,935 

(1) 

(2) 
(3) 
(4) 
(5) 

(6) 

(7) 

(8) 

There are restrictions that stem mainly from regulatory requirements, corporate or securities laws and contractual arrangements that limit the ability of certain consolidated structured entities 
to transfer funds to the Bank. 
The underlying assets are credit card receivables.  
The Bank’s investment is presented net of third-party holdings. 
The underlying assets are various financial instruments and are presented on a net asset basis. Certain investment funds are in a trading portfolio. 
The  underlying  assets  are  uninsured  residential  mortgage  loans  of  the  Bank.  The  average  maturity  of  these  underlying  assets  is  two  years.  As  at  October  31,  2019,  the  total  amount  of 
transferred mortgage loans was $16.2 billion ($12.9 billion as at October 31, 2018), and the total amount of covered bonds of $9.5 billion was recognized in Deposits on the Consolidated 
Balance Sheet ($8.3 billion as at October 31, 2018). For additional information, see Note 13 to these consolidated financial statements. 
As at October 31, 2018, the underlying asset was the Bank’s head office building, which was sold on July 30, 2019. For additional information, see Note 10 to these consolidated financial 
statements.  
The underlying assets are insured and uninsured residential mortgage loans of the Bank. As at October 31, 2019, insured loans amounted to $12 million ($18 million as at October 31, 2018). 
The average maturity of the underlying assets is one year. For additional information, see Note 19 to these consolidated financial statements. 
The underlying assets consist of a loan portfolio. 

National Bank of Canada 

1 

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National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
   
 
  
 
   
 
  
 
   
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

NNoottee  2288  ––  RReellaatteedd  PPaarrttyy  DDiisscclloossuurreess  

In the normal course of business, the Bank provides various banking services to related parties and enters into contractual agreements and other operations 
with related parties. The Bank considers the following to be related parties: 

 
 
 
 

its key officers and directors and members of their immediate family, i.e., spouses and children under 18 living in the same household; 
entities over which its key officers and directors and their immediate family have control or significant influence through their significant voting power; 
the Bank’s associates and joint ventures; 
the Bank’s pension plans (for additional information, see Note 23 to these consolidated financial statements). 

According to the established definition, the Bank’s key officers are those persons having authority and responsibility for planning, directing and controlling the 
Bank’s activities, directly or indirectly. 

RReellaatteedd  PPaarrttyy  TTrraannssaaccttiioonnss  

As at October 31 

AAsssseettss  
  Mortgage loans and other loans 
  Other 

LLiiaabbiilliittiieess  
  Deposits 
  Other 

Key officers 
and directors(1) 
2018  

36
−

59
−

22001199  

33
−−

3399
−−

22001199  

333399  (2) 
−−   

663322  (3) 
33   

Related entities 
2018 

(2)   

298 
8   

(3)   

511 
16   

(1) 
(2) 

(3) 

As at October 31, 2019, key officers, directors and their immediate family members were holding $69 million of the Bank’s common and preferred shares ($67 million as at October 31, 2018). 
As at October 31, 2019, mortgage loans and other loans consisted of: (i) no loans to the Bank’s associates and joint ventures (no loans as at October 31, 2018) and (ii) $339 million in loans 
to  entities  over  which  the  Bank’s  key  officers,  directors  or  their  immediate  family  members  exercise  control  or  significant  influence  through  significant  voting  power  ($298  million  as  at 
October 31, 2018). 
As at October 31, 2019, deposits consisted of: (i) $395 million in deposits from the Bank’s associates and joint ventures ($306 million as at October 31, 2018) and (ii) $237 million in deposits 
from entities over which the Bank’s key officers, directors or their immediate family members exercise control or significant influence through significant voting power ($205 million as at 
October 31, 2018). 

The contractual agreements and other transactions with related entities as well as with directors and key officers are entered into under conditions similar to 
those offered to non-related third parties. These agreements did not have a significant impact on the Bank’s results. The Bank also offers a deferred stock unit 
plan to directors who are not Bank employees. For additional information, see Notes 9, 22 and 27 to these consolidated financial statements.  

CCoommppeennssaattiioonn  ooff  KKeeyy  OOffffiicceerrss  aanndd  DDiirreeccttoorrss  

Year ended October 31 

Compensation and other short-term and long-term benefits 
Share-based payments 

22001199  

2233 
2255 

2018  

22   
25   

202

2 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
 
   
 
 
   
   
 
   
   
   
   
 
   
 
 
    
   
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

PPrriinncciippaall  SSuubbssiiddiiaarriieess  ooff  tthhee  BBaannkk(1) 

Name 

Business activity 

Principal office address 

CCaannaaddaa  aanndd  UUnniitteedd  SSttaatteess  
National Bank Acquisition Holding Inc. 
  National Bank Financial Inc. 
    NBF International Holdings Inc. 
      National Bank of Canada Financial Group Inc. 
        Credigy Ltd. 
        National Bank of Canada Financial Inc. 
  National Bank Life Insurance Company 
  Natcan Trust Company 
National Bank Trust Inc. 
National Bank Realty Inc. 
National Bank Investments Inc. 
NatBC Holding Corporation 
  Natbank, National Association 

OOtthheerr  ccoouunnttrriieess  
Natcan Global Holdings Ltd. 
  NBC Global Finance Limited 
NBC Financial Markets Asia Limited 
Advanced Bank of Asia Limited 
ATA IT Ltd. 

Holding company 
Investment dealer 
Holding company 
Holding company 
Holding company 
Investment dealer 
Insurance 
Trustee 
Trustee 
Real estate 
Mutual funds dealer 
Holding company 
Commercial bank 

Montreal, Canada 
Montreal, Canada 
Montreal, Canada 
New York, NY, United States 
Atlanta, GA, United States 
New York, NY, United States 
Montreal, Canada 
Montreal, Canada 
Montreal, Canada 
Montreal, Canada 
Montreal, Canada 
Hollywood, FL, United States 
Hollywood, FL, United States 

Holding company 
Investment services 
Investment dealer 
Commercial bank 
Information technology 

Sliema, Malta 
Dublin, Ireland 
Hong Kong, China 
Phnom Penh, Cambodia 
Bangkok, Thailand 

AAss  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199   
Investment 
at cost  

Voting 
shares(2) 

100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 
80% 
100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 

100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 

1,464 

238 
195 
80 
585 
31 

22 

5 
377 
3 

(1) 
(2) 

Excluding consolidated structured entities. For additional information, see Note 27 to these consolidated financial statements. 
The Bank’s percentage of voting rights in these subsidiaries. 

NNoottee  2299  ––  MMaannaaggeemmeenntt  ooff  tthhee  RRiisskkss  AAssssoocciiaatteedd  WWiitthh  FFiinnaanncciiaall  IInnssttrruummeennttss  

The Bank is exposed to credit risk, market risk, liquidity risk and financing risk. The Bank’s objectives, policies and procedures for managing risk and the risk 
measurement  methods  are  presented  in  the  Risk  Management  section  of  the  MD&A  for  the  year  ended  October  31,  2019.  Text  in  grey  shading  and  tables 
identified with an asterisk (*) in the Risk Management section of the MD&A for the year ended October  31, 2019 are an integral part of these consolidated 
financial statements. 

RReessiidduuaall  CCoonnttrraaccttuuaall  MMaattuurriittiieess  ooff  BBaallaannccee  SShheeeett  IItteemmss  aanndd    
OOffff--BBaallaannccee--SShheeeett  CCoommmmiittmmeennttss  

The following tables present balance sheet items and off-balance-sheet commitments by residual contractual maturity as at October 31, 2019 and 2018. The 
information gathered from this maturity analysis is a component of liquidity and funding management. However, this maturity profile does not represent how 
the Bank manages its interest rate risk nor its liquidity risk and funding needs. The Bank considers factors other than contractual maturity in the assessment of 
liquid assets or in determining expected future cash flows.  

In the normal course of business, the Bank enters into various off-balance-sheet commitments. The credit instruments used to meet the funding needs of its 
clients represent the maximum amount of additional credit the Bank could be obligated to extend if the commitments were fully drawn.  

The Bank also has future minimum commitments under leases for premises as well for other contracts, mainly commitments to purchase loans and contracts for 
outsourced information technology services. Most of the lease commitments are related to operating leases.  

National Bank of Canada 

3 

203

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
  
           
   
   
 
           
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Note 29  ––  Management of the Risks Associated With Financial Instruments (cont.)  

AAsssseettss  

CCaasshh  aanndd  ddeeppoossiittss    
  wwiitthh  ffiinnaanncciiaall  iinnssttiittuuttiioonnss    

SSeeccuurriittiieess    
  At fair value through   
    profit or loss  
  At fair value through   
    other comprehensive income 
  At amortized cost 

SSeeccuurriittiieess  ppuurrcchhaasseedd  uunnddeerr      
  rreevveerrssee  rreeppuurrcchhaassee      
  aaggrreeeemmeennttss  aanndd    
  sseeccuurriittiieess  bboorrrroowweedd    

LLooaannss(1)  
   Residential mortgage  
  Personal 
  Credit card  
  Business and government  
  Customers’ liability under  
    acceptances  
  Allowances for credit losses  

OOtthheerr  
  Derivative financial instruments  
  Investments in associates and  
    joint ventures  
  Premises and equipment  
  Goodwill 
  Intangible assets  
  Other assets(1) 

11  mmoonntthh  
oorr  lleessss  

OOvveerr  11  
mmoonntthh  ttoo  
33  mmoonntthhss  

OOvveerr  33  
mmoonntthhss  ttoo  
66  mmoonntthhss  

OOvveerr  66  
mmoonntthhss  ttoo  
99  mmoonntthhss  

OOvveerr  99  
mmoonntthhss  ttoo  
1122  mmoonntthhss  

OOvveerr  11  
yyeeaarr  ttoo  
22  yyeeaarrss  

OOvveerr  22  
yyeeaarrss  ttoo  
55  yyeeaarrss  

OOvveerr  55  
yyeeaarrss  

NNoo  
ssppeecciiffiieedd  
mmaattuurriittyy  

TToottaall  

AAss  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199  

77,,330011 

11,,663388 

112211

111111

3333

−−

−− 

−− 

44,,449944

1133,,669988    

11,,222288 

3366 
3333 
11,,229977 

664477 

1144 
8844 
774455 

665588

2266
226622
994466

225566

55
333311
559922

441111

11
110055
551177

44,,221155

77,,445511 

66,,887722 

4400,,008855

6611,,882233    

33,,221133
11,,770044
99,,113322

44,,774499 
55,,885533 
1188,,005533 

11,,998822 
11,,338833 
1100,,223377 

662222
−−
4400,,770077

1100,,664488    
99,,775555
8822,,222266    

77,,224477 

11,,336655 

992222

449955

−−

11,,331177

−− 

−− 

66,,337777

1177,,772233    

773344 
225533 

11,,116611 
443300 

11,,995599
880033

33,,009933
997722

22,,889933
884433

1100,,667744
33,,336677

3322,,660011 
1111,,557766 

33,,337755 
33,,440077 

88,,446699 

22,,777711 

22,,999955

33,,220033

22,,222222

66,,001166

1133,,444455 

22,,777711 

66,,113388 

771100 

4455

−−

−−

−−

−− 

−− 

1155,,559944 

55,,007722 

55,,880022

77,,226688

55,,995588

2200,,005577

5577,,662222 

99,,555533 

668811
1155,,229933
22,,332222
88,,770077

5577,,117711    
3366,,994444    
22,,332222    
5500,,559999    

−−
((667788))
2266,,332255

66,,889933    
((667788))   
115533,,225511    

556644 

661144 

448833

226622

119944

884477

22,,003399 

33,,112266 

−−

88,,112299    

11,,442255 
11,,998899 
3333,,442288 

114422 
775566 
99,,557766 

8877
557700
88,,336611

8888
335500
88,,881166

8888
228822
66,,779900

226666
11,,111133
3311,,661199

110077 
22,,114466 
7777,,882211 

3388 
33,,116644 
2222,,995544 

338855
449900
11,,441122
11,,440066
449977
44,,119900
8822,,009933

338855    
449900    
11,,441122    
11,,440066    
22,,773388    
1144,,556600    
228811,,445588    

(1) 

Amounts collectible on demand are considered to have no specified maturity. 

204

4 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
  
     
     
  
         
            
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
  
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
     
 
 
 
 
         
     
 
 
 
 
      
 
 
 
         
    
 
 
 
         
         
 
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

11  mmoonntthh  
oorr  lleessss  

OOvveerr  11  
mmoonntthh  ttoo  
33  mmoonntthhss  

OOvveerr  33  
mmoonntthhss  ttoo  
66  mmoonntthhss  

OOvveerr  66  
mmoonntthhss  ttoo  
99  mmoonntthhss  

OOvveerr  99  
mmoonntthhss  ttoo  
1122  mmoonntthhss  

OOvveerr  11  
yyeeaarr  ttoo  
22  yyeeaarrss  

OOvveerr  22  
yyeeaarrss  ttoo  
55  yyeeaarrss  

OOvveerr  55  
yyeeaarrss    

NNoo  
ssppeecciiffiieedd  
mmaattuurriittyy  

TToottaall  

AAss  aatt  OOccttoobbeerr  3311,,  22001199  

LLiiaabbiilliittiieess  aanndd  eeqquuiittyy  

DDeeppoossiittss(1)(2)  
  Personal  
  Business and government  
  Deposit-taking institutions  

OOtthheerr    
  Acceptances 
  Obligations related   
    to securities sold short(3) 
  Obligations related to  
    securities sold under   
    repurchase agreements and  
    securities loaned  
  Derivative financial instruments 
  Liabilities related to transferred  
    receivables(4) 
  Securitization – Credit card(5) 
  Other liabilities – Other items(1)(5) 

SSuubboorrddiinnaatteedd  ddeebbtt  

EEqquuiittyy  

OOffff--bbaallaannccee--sshheeeett  ccoommmmiittmmeennttss  
   Letters of guarantee and   
     documentary letters of credit  
   Credit card receivables(6) 
   Backstop liquidity and credit  
     enhancement facilities(7) 
   Commitments to extend credit(8) 

   Obligations related to: 
Lease commitments 

     Other contracts(9) 

11,,771166 
2200,,225522 
771111 
2222,,667799 

66,,113388 

550044 

77,,449933 
779933 

−− 
−− 
11,,229988 
1166,,222266 

−− 

11,,998833 
66,,005500 
6699 
88,,110022 

771100 

117766 

11,,228811 
776633 

11,,449911 
−− 
333300 
44,,775511 

−− 

33,,004455
66,,663300
7799
99,,775544

4455

119955

22,,888811
555566

999955
887744
114411
55,,668877

−−

22,,669966
44,,777788
2299
77,,550033

−−

3344

22,,774433
229922

888811
−−
6633
44,,001133

−−

33,,004422
22,,772233
227755
66,,004400

−−

449955

−−
221144

337755
−−
3366
11,,112200

−−

66,,110055
66,,441111
−−
1122,,551166

77,,227766 
1111,,770066 
55 
1188,,998877 

22,,660066 
66,,221133 
4466 
88,,886655 

3311,,559966
6600,,550033
33,,002211
9955,,112200

6600,,006655    
112255,,226666    
44,,223355    
118899,,556666    

−−

−− 

−− 

−−

66,,889933    

331155

22,,773388 

55,,114477 

33,,224455

1122,,884499    

−−
771122

33,,664400
−−
5588
44,,772255

−−

−− 
11,,995599 

1100,,662233 
3377 
8844 
1155,,444411 

−− 

−− 
11,,556633 

33,,330077 
−− 
229922 
1100,,330099 

777733 

3388,,990055 

1122,,885533 

1155,,444411

1111,,551166

77,,116600

1177,,224411

3344,,442288 

1199,,994477 

333355 

11,,443300 

441111

11,,001199

888888

11,,225588

5533 

−− 

−− 
11,,991166 

1155 
44,,555522 

88 
115588 

1177 
228899 

33,,001177
44,,110033

2266
552233

1155
55,,006644

2277
442233

−−
44,,001199

2266
338800

−−
44,,225588

−− 
1100,,332266 

9999
119988

224499 
225577 

−− 
778844 

223399 
−− 

77,,550022
−−

2211,,990000    
66,,885522    

−−
−−
22,,996644
1133,,771111

2211,,331122    
991111    
55,,226666    
7755,,998833    

−−

777733    

1155,,113366
112233,,996677

1155,,113366    
228811,,445588    

−−
77,,663300

55,,339944    
77,,663300    

22,,660088
2277,,110022

55,,665555    
6622,,112244    

−−
−−

669911    
22,,222288    

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 
(4) 
(5) 
(6) 
(7) 
(8) 
(9) 

Amounts payable upon demand or notice are considered to have no specified maturity.  
The Deposits item is presented in greater detail than it is on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. 
Amounts are disclosed according to the remaining contractual maturity of the underlying security. 
These amounts mainly include liabilities related to the securitization of mortgage loans. 
The Other liabilities item is presented in greater detail than it is on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. 
These amounts are unconditionally revocable at the Bank’s discretion at any time. 
In the event of payment on one of the backstop liquidity facilities, the Bank will receive as collateral government bonds in an amount up to $3.0 billion. 
These amounts include $45.2 billion that is unconditionally revocable at the Bank’s discretion at any time. 
These amounts include $0.3 billion in contractual commitments related to the head office building under construction.  

National Bank of Canada 

5 

205

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
  
   
 
  
     
     
  
         
  
 
 
 
         
         
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
         
         
 
           
 
           
           
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

Note 29  ––  Management of the Risks Associated With Financial Instruments (cont.) 

AAsssseettss  

CCaasshh  aanndd  ddeeppoossiittss    
  wwiitthh  ffiinnaanncciiaall  iinnssttiittuuttiioonnss    

SSeeccuurriittiieess    
  At fair value through   
    profit or loss  
  At fair value through   
    other comprehensive income 
  At amortized cost 

SSeeccuurriittiieess  ppuurrcchhaasseedd  uunnddeerr      
  rreevveerrssee  rreeppuurrcchhaassee      
  aaggrreeeemmeennttss  aanndd    
  sseeccuurriittiieess  bboorrrroowweedd    

LLooaannss(1)  
   Residential mortgage  
  Personal 
  Credit card  
  Business and government  
  Customers’ liability under  
    acceptances  
  Allowances for credit losses  

OOtthheerr    
  Derivative financial instruments  
  Investments in associates and  
    joint ventures  
  Premises and equipment  
  Goodwill 
  Intangible assets  
  Other assets(1) 

1 month 
or less 

Over 1 
month to 
3 months 

Over 3 
months to 
6 months 

Over 6 
months to 
9 months 

Over 9 
months to 
12 months 

Over 1 
year to 
2 years 

Over 2 
years to 
5 years 

Over 5 
years 

No 
specified 
maturity 

Total 

As at October 31, 2018 

9,544 

790 

41

1

19

10

− 

− 

2,351

12,756   

1,972 

1,706 

1,039

1,429

1,457

5,634

10,501 

5,443 

26,636

55,817   

3 
− 
1,975 

183 
10 
1,899 

7
9
1,055

66
−
1,495

68
730
2,255

714
814
7,162

1,892 
6,162 
18,555 

2,502 
573 
8,518 

233
−
26,869

5,668   
8,298   
69,783   

7,759 

1,242 

2,154

271

790

2,151

− 

− 

3,792

18,159   

724 
365 

950 
395 

1,583
622

2,653
1,070

2,105
762

10,124
3,914

32,675 
10,509 

2,085 
3,116 

7,557 

2,454 

2,246

3,672

2,206

4,244

12,838 

2,402 

6,019 

670 

112

−

−

−

− 

− 

14,665 

4,469 

4,563

7,395

5,073

18,282

56,022 

7,603 

752
16,604
2,325
8,987

53,651   
37,357   
2,325   
46,606   

−
(658)
28,010

6,801   
(658)  
146,082   

642 

884 

718

375

287

951

2,005 

2,746 

−

8,608   

574 
1,216 
35,159 

108 
992 
9,392 

66
784
8,597

61
436
9,598

131
418
8,555

119
1,070
28,675

31 
2,036 
76,613 

54 
2,800 
18,921 

645
601
1,412
1,314
1,967
5,939
66,961

645   
601   
1,412   
1,314   
3,111   
15,691   
262,471   

(1) 

Amounts collectible on demand are considered to have no specified maturity. 

206

6 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
   
   
 
         
        
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
     
 
 
 
 
         
     
 
 
 
 
      
 
 
 
         
    
 
 
 
         
         
 
 
 
  
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

LLiiaabbiilliittiieess  aanndd  eeqquuiittyy  

DDeeppoossiittss(1)(2)  
  Personal 
  Business and government 
  Deposit-taking institutions 

OOtthheerr  
  Acceptances 
  Obligations related   
    to securities sold short(3) 
  Obligations related to  
    securities sold under   
    repurchase agreements and  
    securities loaned  
  Derivative financial instruments 
  Liabilities related to transferred  
    receivables(4) 
  Securitization – Credit card(5) 
  Other liabilities – Other items(1)(5) 

SSuubboorrddiinnaatteedd  ddeebbtt  

EEqquuiittyy  

OOffff--bbaallaannccee--sshheeeett  ccoommmmiittmmeennttss  
   Letters of guarantee and   
     documentary letters of credit  
   Credit card receivables(6) 
   Backstop liquidity and credit  
     enhancement facilities(7) 
   Commitments to extend credit(8) 
   Obligations related to(9): 
     Lease commitments 
     Other contracts 

1 month 
or less 

Over 1 
month to 
3 months 

Over 3 
months to 
6 months 

Over 6 
months to 
9 months 

Over 9 
months to 
12 months 

Over 1 
year to 
2 years 

Over 2 
years to 
5 years 

Over 5 
years 

No 
specified 
maturity 

Total 

As at October 31, 2018 

1,630 
12,082 
949 
14,661 

6,019 

1,061 

6,912 
427 

− 
36 
548 
15,003 

− 

2,324 
9,725 
541 
12,590 

670 

362 

1,981 
668 

2,244 
− 
241 
6,166 

− 

2,631
5,587
200
8,418

112

201

3,826
288

226
−
56
4,709

−

2,033
2,953
15
5,001

−

33

1,607
245

867
−
20
2,772

−

2,785
1,988
263
5,036

5,156
7,017
−
12,173

8,994 
11,050 
− 
20,044 

2,327 
5,025 
50 
7,402 

27,808
54,894
2,803
85,505

55,688   
110,321   
4,821   
170,830   

−

−

− 

− 

−

6,801   

311

1,753

3,729 

5,946 

4,384

17,780   

−
181

537
−
59
1,088

−

−
856

3,088
874
66
6,637

−

− 
1,485 

10,072 
− 
63 
15,349 

− 
1,886 

3,066 
− 
207 
11,105 

5,672
−

19,998   
6,036   

−
−
3,654
13,710

20,100   
910   
4,914   
76,539   

− 

747 

−

747   

29,664 

18,756 

13,127

7,773

6,124

18,810

35,393 

19,254 

78 

1,269 

540

1,296

688

566

58 

− 

− 
2,394 

15 
4,161 

2,298
3,886

15
4,988

−
4,737

7 
18 

16 
12 

23
18

22
17

22
32

−
3,839

86
102

− 
6,777 

218 
101 

− 
304 

254 
− 

14,355
113,570

14,355   
262,471   

−
7,874

4,495   
7,874   

2,550
26,708

4,878   
57,794   

−
−

648   
300   

(1) 
(2) 
(3) 
(4) 
(5) 
(6) 
(7) 
(8) 
(9) 

Amounts payable upon demand or notice are considered to have no specified maturity. 
The Deposits item is presented in greater detail than it is on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. 
Amounts have been disclosed according to the remaining contractual maturity of the underlying security. 
These amounts mainly include liabilities related to the securitization of mortgage loans. 
The Other liabilities item is presented in greater detail than it is on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. 
These amounts are unconditionally revocable at the Bank’s discretion at any time. 
In the event of payment on one of the backstop liquidity facilities, the Bank will receive as collateral government bonds in an amount up to $2.3 billion. 
These amounts include $42.9 billion that is unconditionally revocable at the Bank’s discretion at any time. 
After refining the process used to identify lease commitments and other contracts, certain amounts have been modified from those previously reported as at October 31, 2018.  

National Bank of Canada 

7 

207

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
  
   
 
 
   
   
 
         
  
 
 
 
         
         
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
         
         
 
           
 
           
           
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

NNoottee  3300  ––  SSeeggmmeenntt  DDiisscclloossuurreess  

The Bank carries out its activities in four business segments, which are defined below. For presentation purposes, other activities are grouped in the Other 
heading. Each reportable segment is distinguished by services offered, type of clientele and marketing strategy. 

The presentation of segment disclosures is consistent with the presentation adopted by the Bank for the year beginning November 1, 2018. This presentation 
reflects the fact that advisor banking service activities, which had previously been presented in the Wealth Management segment, are now presented in the 
Personal and Commercial segment. The Bank made this change to better align the monitoring of its activities with its management structure. 

PPeerrssoonnaall  aanndd  CCoommmmeerrcciiaall    
The Personal and Commercial segment encompasses the banking, financing, and investing services offered to individuals, advisors and businesses as well as 
insurance operations. 

WWeeaalltthh  MMaannaaggeemmeenntt  
The Wealth Management segment comprises investment solutions, trust services, banking services, lending services and other wealth management solutions 
offered through internal and third-party distribution networks. 

FFiinnaanncciiaall  MMaarrkkeettss  
The Financial Markets segment encompasses corporate banking and investment banking and financial solutions for large and mid-size corporations, public 
sector organizations, and institutional investors. The segment is also active in proprietary trading and investment activities for the Bank. 

UU..SS..  SSppeecciiaallttyy  FFiinnaannccee  aanndd  IInntteerrnnaattiioonnaall  ((UUSSSSFF&&II))    
The USSF&I segment encompasses the specialty finance expertise provided by subsidiary Credigy; the activities of subsidiary ABA Bank, which offers financial 
products and services to individuals and businesses in Cambodia; and the activities of targeted investments in certain emerging markets. 

OOtthheerr  
This heading encompasses treasury activities, liquidity management, Bank funding, asset/liability management activities, certain non-recurring items and the 
unallocated portion of corporate units. 

The segment disclosures have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies described in Note 1 to these consolidated financial statements, except 
for the net interest income, non-interest income and income taxes (recovery) of the operating segments, which are presented on a taxable equivalent basis. 
Taxable equivalent basis is a calculation method that consists in grossing up certain tax-exempt income by the amount of income tax that would have otherwise 
been  payable.  The  effect  of  these  adjustments  is  reversed  under  the Other  heading.  Operations  support  charges  are  allocated  to  each  operating  segment 
presented in the business segment results. The Bank assesses performance based on the net income attributable to the Bank’s shareholders. Intersegment 
revenues are recognized at the exchange amount. Segment assets correspond to average assets used in segment operations. 

RReessuullttss  bbyy  BBuussiinneessss  SSeeggmmeenntt    

Year ended October 31(1) 

Net interest income(2) 
Non-interest income(2)(3) 
Total revenues 
Non-interest expenses(4) 
Contribution 
Provisions for credit losses 
Income before income taxes  
  (recovery) 
Income taxes (recovery)(2) 
Net income 
Non-controlling interests 
Net income attributable to the   
  Bank’s shareholders 
Average assets  

Personal and 
Commercial 
2018 

22001199  

Wealth 
Management 
2018 

22001199  

22,,338833 
11,,006699 
33,,445522 
11,,881166 
11,,663366 
223377 

2,276 
1,033 
3,309 
1,782 
1,527 
228 

11,,339999 
337722 
11,,002277 
−−   

1,299 
347 
952 
−   

447700 
11,,227733 
11,,774433 
11,,006677 
667766 
−− 

667766 
117777 
449999 
−− 

446
1,243
1,689
1,058
631
1

630
166
464
−

22001199  

447744
11,,227766
11,,775500
774433
11,,000077
3300

997777
226600
771177
−−

Financial 
Markets 
2018 

22001199  

USSF&I 
2018 

409
1,334
1,743
697
1,046
4

1,042
278
764
−

665566
5599
771155
228855
443300
8800

335500
7711
227799
4400

584
55
639
251
388
94

294
72
222
38  

22001199  

((338877)) 
115599 
((222288)) 
339900 
((661188)) 
−− 

((661188)) 
((441188)) 
((220000)) 
2266   

Other 
2018 

(333)
119
(214)
275
(489)
−

(489)
(319)
(170)
49

22001199  

33,,559966
33,,883366
77,,443322
44,,330011
33,,113311
334477

22,,778844
446622
22,,332222
6666

Total 
2018 

3,382   
3,784   
7,166   
4,063   
3,103   
327   

2,776   
544   
2,232   
87   

11,,002277   

952   
  111122,,779988  106,857 

449999 
66,,221199 

464
6,167

771177
111122,,449933

764
100,721

223399
1100,,998855

184  

9,270

((222266))  
4433,,666677 

(219)
42,925

22,,225566
228866,,116622

2,145   
265,940   

(1) 

(2) 

(3) 

(4) 

For the year ended October 31, 2018, certain amounts have been reclassified, mainly amounts related to advisor banking service activities, which have been transferred from the Wealth 
Management segment to the Personal and Commercial segment.  
For the year ended October 31, 2019, Net interest income was grossed up by $195 million ($144 million in 2018), Non-interest income was grossed up by $135 million ($101 million in 2018), 
and an equivalent amount was recognized in Income taxes (recovery). The effect of these adjustments is reversed under the Other heading. 
For the Other heading of segment results, the Non-interest income item includes a $79 million gain on disposal of Fiera Capital Corporation shares, a $50 million gain on disposal of premises 
and equipment, and a $33 million loss resulting from the fair value measurement of an investment. 
For the Other heading of segment results, the Non-interest expenses item includes $57 million in impairment losses on premises and equipment and on intangible assets, $45 million in 
provisions for onerous contracts, an $11 million charge related to Maple, and $10 million in severance pay. 

208

8 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
  
   
  
 
   
  
 
   
  
  
   
  
  
   
  
  
   
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements 
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

RReessuullttss  bbyy  GGeeooggrraapphhiicc  SSeeggmmeenntt  

Year ended October 31 

Net interest income 
Non-interest income(1) 
Total revenues 
Non-interest expenses(2) 
Contribution 
Provisions for credit losses 
Income before income taxes 
Income taxes 
Net income 
Non-controlling interests 
Net income attributable to the Bank’s shareholders 
Average assets  

22001199  

22,,446666
33,,550022
55,,996688
33,,993311
22,,003377
226677
11,,777700
330033
11,,446677
3366
11,,443311
223311,,666677

Canada 
2018 

United States 
2018 

22001199  

2,531
3,488
6,019
3,750
2,269
233
2,036
412
1,624
54
1,570
218,647

555511
8844
663355
221100
442255
6688
335577
5588
229999
3300
226699
2200,,441111

469
108
577
205
372
81
291
85
206
33
173
20,503

22001199  

557799 
225500 
882299 
116600 
666699 
1122 
665577 
110011 
555566 
−−   
555566   
3344,,008844 

Other 
2018 

382 
188 
570 
108 
462 
13 
449 
47 
402 
−   
402   
26,790 

22001199  

33,,559966
33,,883366
77,,443322
44,,330011
33,,113311
334477
22,,778844
446622
22,,332222
6666
22,,225566
228866,,116622

Total  
2018   

3,382   
3,784   
7,166   
4,063   
3,103   
327   
2,776   
544   
2,232   
87   
2,145   
265,940   

(1) 

(2) 

For Canada, the Non-interest income item  includes a $79 million gain on disposal of Fiera Capital Corporation shares, a $50 million gain on disposal of premises and equipment, and a 
$33 million loss resulting from the fair value measurement of an investment. 
For Canada, the Non-interest expenses item includes $57 million in impairment losses on premises and equipment and on intangible assets, $45 million in provisions for onerous contracts, 
an $11 million charge related to Maple and $10 million in severance pay. 

NNoottee  3311  ––  AAccqquuiissiittiioonn  

On September 27, 2019, the Bank acquired the entire remaining non-controlling interest in the Cambodian subsidiary Advanced Bank of Asia Limited (ABA Bank) 
for $84 million. Following this transaction, ABA Bank became a wholly owned subsidiary of the Bank.  

NNoottee  3322  ––  EEvveenntt  AAfftteerr  tthhee  CCoonnssoolliiddaatteedd  BBaallaannccee  SShheeeett  DDaattee    

On November 19, 2019, the Bank paid 7.7 million euros to the German tax authorities in relation to the Maple case. This payment was made upon a final tax 
claim of the tax authorities against the insolvency administrator that was approved by the Maple GmbH creditor assembly. As at October 31, 2019, a provision 
of  $11  million  was  recorded  to  reflect  this  adjusting  event  after  the  Consolidated  Balance  Sheet  date.  For  additional  information,  see  Note  26  to  these 
consolidated financial statements. 

National Bank of Canada 

9 

209

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
   
   
  
 
   
  
  
   
  
 
   
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
   
  
  
   
 
Supplementary 
Information 

Statistical Review 

Glossary of Financial Terms 

Information for Shareholders 

221122  

221144  

221166  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Supplementary Information 

Statistical Review 

As at October 31(1)
(millions of Canadian dollars) 

CCoonnssoolliiddaatteedd  BBaallaannccee  SShheeeett  ddaattaa  
Cash and deposits with financial institutions 
Securities
Securities purchased under reverse 

repurchase agreements and  
securities borrowed 

Loans
Other assets 
TToottaall  aasssseettss  
Deposits
Other liabilities 
Non-controlling interests 
Subordinated debt 
Share capital 
  Preferred 
  Common 
Contributed surplus 
Retained earnings 
Accumulated other comprehensive income 
Non-controlling interests 
TToottaall  lliiaabbiilliittiieess  aanndd  eeqquuiittyy  

22001199    

2018  

2017  

2016  

2015  

2014  

2013  

2012  

2011  

2010

1133,,669988 
8822,,222266 

12,756
69,783

8,802
65,343

8,183
64,541

7,567
56,040

8,086
52,953

3,596 
53,744 

3,249 
54,898 

2,851
56,592

2,274   
54,268   

1177,,772233 
115533,,225511 
1144,,556600 
228811,,445588 
118899,,556666 
7755,,998833 

18,159
146,082
15,691
262,471
170,830
76,539

20,789
136,457
14,436
245,827
156,671
75,589

13,948
128,036
17,498
232,206
142,066
77,026

17,702
116,676
18,105
216,090
130,458
72,755

24,525
106,959
12,906
205,429
119,883
73,163

21,449 
97,338 
12,092 
188,219 
102,111 
74,729 

15,529 
90,922 
13,305 
177,903 
93,474 
73,948 

12,507
80,758
14,146
166,854
85,787
71,791

777733 

747

9

1,012

1,522

1,881

2,426 

2,470 

2,000

22,,445500 
22,,994499 
5511 
99,,331122 
1166 
335588 
228811,,445588 

2,450
2,822
57
8,472
175
379
262,471

2,050
2,768
58
7,706
168
808
245,827

1,650
2,645
73
6,706
218
810
232,206

1,023
2,614
67
6,705
145
801
216,090

1,223
2,293
52
5,850
289
795
205,429

677 
2,160 
58 
5,055 
214 
789 
188,219 

762 
2,054 
58 
4,091 
255 
791 
177,903 

762
1,970
46
3,366
337
795
166,854

10,878   
63,134   
14,748   
145,302   
81,785   
53,059   
1,217   
2,033   

1,089   
1,804   
66   
4,081   
168   

145,302   

Average assets 

228866,,116622 

265,940

248,351

235,913

222,929

206,680

193,509 

181,344 

165,942

140,360   

Net impaired loans(2)(3) under IFRS 9 
Net impaired loans(3) under IAS 39 

CCoonnssoolliiddaatteedd  SSttaatteemmeenntt  ooff  IInnccoommee  ddaattaa  
Net interest income 
Non-interest income 
TToottaall  rreevveennuueess  
Provisions for credit losses 
Non-interest expenses 
Income taxes 
Non-controlling interests 
NNeett  iinnccoommee  
Non-controlling interests  
NNeett  iinnccoommee  aattttrriibbuuttaabbllee  ttoo  tthhee  BBaannkk’ss    
   sshhaarreehhoollddeerrss  

445500 

404

206

281

254

248

183 

179 

175

162   

33,,559966 
33,,883366 
77,,443322 
334477 
44,,330011 
446622 

22,,332222 
6666 

22,,225566 

3,382
3,784
7,166
327
4,063
544

2,232
87

3,436
3,173
6,609
244
3,857
484

2,024
84

3,205
2,635
5,840
484
3,875
225

1,256
75

2,929
2,817
5,746
228
3,665
234

1,619
70

2,761
2,703
5,464
208
3,423
295

1,538
69

2,478 
2,673 
5,151 
181 
3,206 
252 

1,512 
63 

2,365 
2,936 
5,301 
180 
3,207 
317 

1,597 
61 

2,318
2,336
4,654
184
2,952
264

1,254
60

1,933   
2,351   
4,284   
144   
2,822   
221   
63   
1,034   

2,145

1,940

1,181

1,549

1,469

1,449 

1,536 

1,194

(1) 

(2) 

(3) 

The figures for 2010 are presented in accordance with previous Canadian GAAP, and certain amounts from fiscal years 2013, 2012 and 2011 have been adjusted to reflect changes to the 
accounting standards in 2014.  
Given the adoption of IFRS 9, all loans classified in Stage 3 of the expected credit loss model are impaired loans. Under IAS 39, loans were considered impaired according to different criteria. 
Net impaired loans are presented net of allowances for credit losses on Stage 3 loan amounts drawn and, in this table, the net impaired loans presented exclude POCI loans. 
Includes customers’ liability under acceptances.  

212

212 

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
 
Supplementary Information 
Statistical Review 

As at October 31(1)

22001199  

2018

2017

2016

2015

2014

2013

2012 

2011

2010

Number of common shares(2) 
  (thousands) 
Number of common 

 shareholders on record 

Basic earnings  
  per share(2) 
Diluted earnings  
  per share(2) 
Dividend per share(2) 
Share price(2)
  High 
  Low 
  Close 
Book value(2) 
Dividends on preferred 
  shares 

  Series 15 
  Series 16 
  Series 20 
  Series 21 
  Series 24 
  Series 26 
  Series 28 
  Series 30 
  Series 32 
  Series 34 
  Series 36 
  Series 38 
  Series 40 
  Series 42 

FFiinnaanncciiaall  rraattiiooss  
Return on common  
  shareholders’ equity 
Return on average assets 

RReegguullaattoorryy  rraattiiooss  uunnddeerr    
      BBaasseell  IIIIII  
Capital ratios(3)
  CET1(4)
  Tier 1(4)
  Total(4)
Leverage ratio(4)

OOtthheerr  iinnffoorrmmaattiioonn  
Number of employees(9)(10)
Branches in Canada 
Banking machines in Canada 

333344,,117722 

335,071 

339,592 

338,053 

337,236 

329,297 

325,983 

322,617 

320,948 

325,544 

2200,,889944 

21,325 

21,542 

21,966 

22,152 

22,394 

22,737 

23,180 

23,588 

23,598 

  $$  

  $$  
  $$  

  $$  
  $$  
  $$  
  $$  

$$  

$$  

$$  

$$  

$$  

$$  

$$  

66..3399 

66..3344 
22..6666 

6688..0022 
5544..9977 
6688..0022 
3366..8899 

–– 
–– 
–– 
–– 
–– 
–– 
–– 
11..00115566 
00..99775500 
11..44000000 
11..33550000 
11..11112255 
11..11550000 
11..22337755 

$ 

$ 
$ 

$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 

$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 

6.01  $ 

5.44 

5.94  $ 
2.44  $ 

5.38 
2.28 

65.63  $ 
58.69  $ 
59.76  $ 
34.40  $ 

62.74 
46.83 
62.61 
31.51 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
–  $ 
1.0250  $ 
0.9750  $ 
1.4000  $ 
1.3500  $ 
1.1125  $ 
0.9310 
0.5323 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
0.9500 
1.0250 
0.9750 
1.4000 
1.3500 
0.4724 
– 
– 

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

3.31  $

4.56 

3.29  $
2.18  $

4.51 
2.04 

47.88  $
35.83  $
47.88  $
28.52  $

55.06 
40.75 
43.31 
28.26 

– 
– 
–  $
– 
– 
– 

0.9500  $
1.0250  $
0.9750  $
1.1373 
0.5733 
– 
– 
– 

– 
–
1.5000 
– 
–

–
0.9500 
1.0250 
1.0760 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

4.36 

4.32 
1.88 

53.88 
41.60 
52.68 
25.76 

– 
1.2125

1.5000
– 
0.4125

0.4125

0.9500

0.7849
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

4.34  $ 

4.63  $ 

3.41  $

3.00 

4.31  $ 
1.70  $ 

4.58  $ 
1.54  $ 

3.37  $
1.37  $

2.97 

1.24 

45.24  $ 
36.18  $ 
45.24  $ 
22.97  $ 

40.64  $ 
31.64  $ 
38.59  $ 
20.02  $ 

40.72  $
32.43  $
35.57  $
17.82  $

33.94 

27.23 

33.57 

18.80 

0.2444  $ 
1.2125  $ 
1.5000  $ 
1.0078  $ 
1.6500  $ 
1.6500  $ 
0.9728 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

1.4625  $ 
1.2125  $ 
1.5000  $ 
1.3438  $ 
1.6500  $ 
1.6500  $ 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

1.4625  $
1.2125  $
1.5000  $
1.3438  $
1.6500  $
1.6500  $

1.4625 

1.2125 

1.5000 

1.3438 

1.6500 

1.6500 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

1188..00  %% 
00..8811  %% 

18.4  % 
0.84  % 

18.1  % 
0.81  % 

11.7  %
0.53  %

16.9  % 
0.73  % 

17.9  % 
0.74  % 

20.1  % 
0.78  % 

24.1  % 
0.88  % 

19.8  %
0.76  %

17.0  %

0.74  %

1111..77  %% 
1155..00  %% 
1166..11  %% 
44..00  %% 

11.7  % 
15.5  % 
16.8  % 
4.0  % 

11.2  % 
14.9  %(5) 
15.1  %(5) 
4.0  % 

10.1  %
13.5  %
15.3  %
3.7  %

9.9  % 
12.5  %(6) 
14.0  %(8) 
3.7  % 

9.2  % 
12.3  %(7) 
15.1  %(7) 

8.7  % 
11.4  % 
15.0  % 

7.3  % 
10.1  % 
14.1  % 

7.6  %
10.8  %
14.3  %

14.0  %

17.5  %

2244,,555577 
442222 
993399 

22,426 
428 
937 

20,584 
429 
931 

20,600 
450 
938 

19,026 
452 
930 

18,725 
452 
935 

16,675 
453 
937 

16,636 
451 
923 

16,217 
448 
893 

15,298 

442 

869 

(1) 

(2) 
(3) 
(4) 
(5) 
(6) 
(7) 
(8) 
(9) 
(10) 

The figures for 2010 are presented in accordance with previous Canadian GAAP, and certain amounts from fiscal years 2013, 2012 and 2011 have been adjusted to reflect changes to the 
accounting standards in 2014. 
The figures for 2014 and prior years have been adjusted to reflect the stock dividend paid in 2014. 
The October 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 ratios have not been adjusted to reflect changes in accounting standards. 
Since October 31, 2013, the capital ratios were calculated using the “all-in” methodology and the October 31, 2012 and 2011 ratios are presented on a pro forma basis. 
Taking into account the redemption of the Series 28 preferred shares on November 15, 2017. 
Taking into account the redemption of the Series 20 preferred shares on November 15, 2015. 
Taking into account the redemption of the Series 16 preferred shares on November 15, 2014. 
Taking into account the redemption of the Series 20 preferred shares on November 15, 2015 and the $500 million redemption of notes on November 2, 2015. 
Full-time equivalent. 
Includes employees from Credigy Ltd. and Advanced Bank of Asia Limited for fiscal years 2014 to 2019. 

National Bank of Canada

213

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
Supplementary Information 

GGlloossssaarryy  ooff  FFiinnaanncciiaall  TTeerrmmss  

AAcccceeppttaanncceess  
Acceptances constitute a guarantee of payment by a bank and can be traded 
in  the  money  market.  The  Bank  earns  a  “stamping  fee”  for  providing  this 
guarantee. 

AAlllloowwaanncceess  ffoorr  ccrreeddiitt  lloosssseess  
Allowances  for  credit  losses  represent  management’s  unbiased  estimate  of 
expected  credit  losses  as  at  the  balance  sheet  date.  These  allowances  are 
primarily  related  to  loans  and  off-balance-sheet  items  such  as  loan 
commitments and financial guarantees. 

AAsssseettss  uunnddeerr  aaddmmiinniissttrraattiioonn  
Assets  in  respect  of  which  a  financial  institution  provides  administrative 
services  such  as  custodial  services,  collection  of  investment  income, 
settlement  of  purchase  and  sale  transactions  and  record-keeping.  Assets 
under  administration,  which  are  beneficially  owned  by  clients,  are  not 
reported on the balance sheet of the institution offering such services. 

AAsssseettss  uunnddeerr  mmaannaaggeemmeenntt  
Assets  managed  by  a  financial  institution  that  are  beneficially  owned  by 
clients.  Management  services  are  more  comprehensive  than  administrative 
services,  and  include  selecting  investments  or  offering  investment  advice. 
Assets under management, which may also be administered by the financial 
institution, are not reported on the financial institution’s balance sheet. 

AAvveerraaggee  iinntteerreesstt--bbeeaarriinngg  aasssseettss  
Average  interest-bearing  assets  include  deposits  with  financial  institutions, 
certain  interest-bearing  cash  items,  securities,  securities  purchased  under 
reverse  repurchase  agreements  and  securities  borrowed,  and  loans  but 
excludes other assets. The average is calculated based on the daily averages 
for the year. 

BBaassiiss  ppooiinntt  
Unit of measure equal to one one-hundredth of a percentage point (0.01%). 

CCoommmmoonn  EEqquuiittyy  TTiieerr  11  ((CCEETT11))  ccaappiittaall  rraattiioo  
Common Equity Tier 1 capital consists of common shareholders’ equity less 
goodwill,  intangible  assets  and  other  capital  deductions.  Common  Equity 
Tier 1 capital ratio is calculated by dividing Common Equity Tier 1 capital by 
the corresponding risk-weighted assets. 

DDeerriivvaattiivvee  ffiinnaanncciiaall  iinnssttrruummeennttss  
Derivative financial instruments are financial contracts whose value is derived 
from an underlying interest rate, exchange rate or equity, commodity or credit 
instrument or index. Examples of derivatives include swaps, options, forward 
rate  agreements  and  futures.  The  notional  amount  of  the  derivative  is  the 
contract  amount  used  as  a  reference  point  to  calculate  the  payments  to  be 
exchanged  between  the  two  parties,  and  the  notional  amount  itself  is 
generally not exchanged by the parties. 

DDiivviiddeenndd  ppaayyoouutt  rraattiioo  
Common  dividends  as  a  percentage  of  net  income  after  preferred  share 
dividends. 

EEccoonnoommiicc  ccaappiittaall  
Economic capital is the internal measure used by the Bank to determine the 
capital  required  for  its  solvency  and  to  pursue  its  business  operations. 
Economic  capital  takes  into  consideration  the  credit,  market,  operational, 
business  and  other  risks  to  which  the  Bank  is  exposed,  as  well  as  the  risk 
diversification  effect  among  them  and  among  the  business  segments. 
Economic  capital  thus  helps  the  Bank  to  determine  the  capital  required  to 
protect itself against such risks and ensure its long-term viability. 

EEffffiicciieennccyy  rraattiioo  
Non-interest  expenses  as  a  percentage  of  total  revenue,  the  efficiency  ratio 
measures the efficiency of the Bank’s operations. 

FFaaiirr  vvaalluuee  
The fair value of a financial instrument is the price that would be received to 
sell  an  asset  or  paid  to  transfer  a  liability  in  an  orderly  transaction  in  the 
principal  market  at  the  measurement  date  under  current  market  conditions 
(i.e., an exit price).   

HHeeddggiinngg  
The purpose of a hedging transaction is to modify the Bank’s exposure to one 
or more risks by creating an offset between changes in the fair value of, or the 
cash flows attributable to, the hedged item and the hedging instrument. 

IImmppaaiirreedd  llooaannss  
The Bank considers a financial asset, other than a credit card receivable, to be 
credit-impaired when one or more events that have a detrimental impact on 
the estimated future cash flows of the financial asset have occurred or when 
contractual  payments  are  90  days  past  due.  Credit  card  receivables  are 
considered  credit-impaired  and  are  fully  written  off  at  the  earlier  of  the 
following: when a notice of bankruptcy is received, a settlement proposal is 
made, or contractual payments are 180 days past due. 

LLeevveerraaggee  rraattiioo  
The  leverage  ratio  is  calculated  by  dividing  Tier  1  capital  by  total  exposure. 
Total  exposure  is  defined  as  the  sum  of  on-balance-sheet  assets  (including 
derivative exposures and securities financing transaction exposures) and off-
balance-sheet items. 

LLiiqquuiiddiittyy  ccoovveerraaggee  rraattiioo  
The liquidity coverage ratio is a measure designed to ensure that the Bank has 
sufficient high-quality liquid assets to cover net cash outflows given a severe, 
30-day liquidity crisis. 

MMaasstteerr  nneettttiinngg  aaggrreeeemmeenntt  
Legal agreement between two parties that have multiple derivative contracts 
with each other that provides for the net settlement of all contracts through a 
single payment, in the event of default, insolvency or bankruptcy. 

NNeett  iinntteerreesstt  mmaarrggiinn  
Net interest income as a percentage of average interest-bearing assets. 

214

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National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
Supplementary Information 
Glossary of Financial Terms 

OOffffiiccee  ooff  tthhee  SSuuppeerriinntteennddeenntt  ooff  FFiinnaanncciiaall  IInnssttiittuuttiioonnss  ((CCaannaaddaa))  ((OOSSFFII))  
The mandate of the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI) 
is to regulate and supervise financial institutions and private pension plans 
subject to federal oversight, to help minimize undue losses to depositors and 
policyholders and, thereby, to contribute to public confidence in the Canadian 
financial system. 

SSttrruuccttuurreedd  eennttiittyy    
A  structured  entity  is  an  entity  created  to  accomplish  a  narrow  and  well-
defined objective and is designed so that voting or similar rights are not the 
dominant factor in deciding who controls the entity, such as when voting rights 
relate solely to administrative tasks and the relevant activities are directed by 
means of contractual arrangements. 

OOppeerraattiinngg  lleevveerraaggee  
Operating leverage is the difference between the growth rate for total revenues 
and the growth rate for non-interest expenses. 

TTaaxxaabbllee  eeqquuiivvaalleenntt  bbaassiiss  
Taxable equivalent basis is a calculation method that consists in grossing up 
certain  tax-exempt  income  by  the  amount  of  income  tax  that  would  have 
otherwise been payable. 

PPrroovviissiioonnss  ffoorr  ccrreeddiitt  lloosssseess  
The amount charged to income necessary to bring the allowances for credit 
losses to a level determined appropriate by management.  

RReettuurrnn  oonn  ccoommmmoonn  sshhaarreehhoollddeerrss’’  eeqquuiittyy  ((RROOEE))  
Net income, less dividends on preferred shares, expressed as a percentage of 
the average value of common shareholders’ equity. 

RRiisskk--wweeiigghhtteedd  aasssseettss  
Assets are risk weighted according to the guidelines established by OSFI. In 
the Standardized calculation approach, factors are applied to the face value of 
certain  assets  in  order  to  reflect  comparable  risk  levels.  In  the  Advanced 
Internal Rating-Based (AIRB) approach, risk-weighted assets are derived from 
the Bank's internal models, which represent the Bank's own assessment of the 
risks it incurs. Off-balance-sheet instruments are converted to balance sheet 
(or  credit)  equivalents  by  adjusting  the  notional  values  before  applying  the 
appropriate risk-weighting factors. 

SSeeccuurriittiieess  ppuurrcchhaasseedd  uunnddeerr  rreevveerrssee  rreeppuurrcchhaassee  aaggrreeeemmeennttss    
Securities  purchased  by  the  Bank  from  a  client  pursuant  to  an  agreement 
under which the securities will be resold to the same client on a specified date 
and  at  a  specified  price.  Such  an  agreement  is  a  form  of  short-term 
collateralized lending. 

SSeeccuurriittiieess  ssoolldd  uunnddeerr  rreeppuurrcchhaassee  aaggrreeeemmeennttss    
Financial  obligations  related  to  securities  sold  pursuant  to  an  agreement 
under which the securities will be repurchased on a specified date and at  a 
specified price. Such an agreement is a form of short-term funding. 

TTiieerr  11  ccaappiittaall  rraattiioo  
Tier 1 capital ratio consists of Common Equity Tier 1 capital and Additional Tier 
1  instruments,  namely,  eligible  non-cumulative  preferred  shares  and  the 
eligible amount of innovative instruments. Tier 1 capital ratio is calculated by 
dividing Tier 1 capital, less regulatory adjustments, by the corresponding risk-
weighted assets. 

TToottaall  ccaappiittaall  rraattiioo  
Total capital is the sum of Tier 1 and Tier 2 capital. Tier 2 capital consists of the 
eligible portion of subordinated debt and certain credit loss allowances. Total 
capital  ratio 
less  regulatory 
adjustments, by the corresponding risk-weighted assets. 

is  calculated  by  dividing  total  capital, 

TToottaall  sshhaarreehhoollddeerr  rreettuurrnn  
The total shareholder return (TSR) represents the average total return on an 
investment  in  the  Bank’s  common  shares.  The  return  includes  changes  in 
share  price  and  assumes  that  the  dividends  received  were  reinvested  in 
additional common shares of the Bank. 

VVaalluuee--aatt--RRiisskk  ((VVaaRR))  
VaR is a statistical measure of risk that is used to quantify market risks across 
products,  per  types  of  risks  and  aggregate  risk  on  a  portfolio  basis.  VaR  is 
defined  as  the  maximum  loss  at  a  specific  confidence  level  over  a  certain 
horizon under normal market conditions. The VaR method has the advantage 
of  providing  a  uniform  measurement  of  financial  instrument-related  market 
risks based on a single statistical confidence level and time horizon.

National Bank of Canada 

215

National Bank of Canada2019 Annual Report 
 
 
 
    
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Supplementary Information 

IInnffoorrmmaattiioonn  ffoorr  SShhaarreehhoollddeerrss  

DDeessccrriippttiioonn  ooff  SShhaarree  CCaappiittaall  

DDiivviiddeennddss  DDeeccllaarreedd  oonn  CCoommmmoonn  SShhaarreess  DDuurriinngg  FFiissccaall  22001199  

The authorized share capital of the Bank consists of an unlimited number of 
common  shares,  without  par  value,  an  unlimited  number  of  first  preferred 
shares, without par value, issuable for a maximum aggregate consideration of 
$5 billion, and 15 million second preferred shares, without par value, issuable 
for  a  maximum  aggregate  consideration  of  $300 million.  As  at 
October 31, 2019, the Bank had a total of 334,172,411 common shares and 
98,000,000 first preferred shares issued and outstanding. 

Record date 

Payment date 

Dividend per share ($) 

December 31, 2018 
March 25, 2019 
June 25, 2019 
September 30, 2019 

February 1, 2019 
May 1, 2019 
August 1, 2019 
November 1, 2019 

0.65 
0.65 
0.68 
0.68 

SSttoocckk  EExxcchhaannggee  LLiissttiinnggss  

DDiivviiddeennddss  DDeeccllaarreedd  oonn  PPrreeffeerrrreedd  SShhaarreess  DDuurriinngg  FFiissccaall  22001199  

The  Bank’s  common  shares  and  Series  30,  32,  34,  36,  38,  40  and  42  First 
Preferred Shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange in Canada. 

Record  
date 

Payment 
date 

Series 
30 

Series 
32 

Series 
34 

Series 
36 

Dividend per share ($) 
Series 
42 

Series 
40 

Series 
38 

Issue or class 

Common shares 
First Preferred Shares 
  Series 30 
  Series 32 
  Series 34 
  Series 36 
  Series 38 
  Series 40 
  Series 42 

Ticker symbol 

NA  

NA.PR.S  
NA.PR.W  
NA.PR.X  
NA.PR.A  
NA.PR.C  
NA.PR.E  
NA.PR.G  

NNuummbbeerr  ooff  RReeggiisstteerreedd  SShhaarreehhoollddeerrss    

As at October 31, 2019, there were 20,894 common shareholders recorded in 
the Bank’s common share register.  

DDiivviiddeennddss    

DDiivviiddeenndd  DDaatteess  iinn  FFiissccaall  22002200  
(subject to approval by the Board of Directors of the Bank) 

Record date 

Common shares 
  December 30, 2019 
  March 30, 2020 
  June 29, 2020 
  September 28, 2020 

Preferred shares,   
  Series 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40 and 42 

  January 6, 2020 
  April 6, 2020 
  July 6, 2020 
  October 6, 2020 

Payment date 

February 1, 2020 
May 1, 2020 
August 1, 2020 
November 1, 2020 

February 15, 2020 
May 15, 2020 
August 15, 2020 
November 15, 2020 

Jan. 7, 19 

Apr. 5, 19 

Jul. 8, 19 

Oct. 7, 19 

Feb. 15, 19 

May 15, 19 

Aug. 15, 19 

Nov. 15, 19 

0.2563  0.2438  0.3500  0.3375  0.2781  0.2875  0.3094 
0.2562  0.2437  0.3500  0.3375  0.2782  0.2875  0.3094 
0.2516  0.2438  0.3500  0.3375  0.2781  0.2875  0.3093 
0.2515  0.2437  0.3500  0.3375  0.2781  0.2875  0.3094 

Dividends paid are “eligible dividends” in accordance with the Income Tax Act  
(Canada).  

DDiivviiddeenndd  RReeiinnvveessttmmeenntt  aanndd  SShhaarree  PPuurrcchhaassee  
PPllaann  

National  Bank  has  a  Dividend  Reinvestment  and  Share  Purchase  Plan  for 
Canadian holders of its common and preferred shares under which they can 
acquire  common  shares  of  the  Bank  without  paying  commissions  or 
administration  fees.  Canadian  participants  acquire  common  shares  through 
the reinvestment of cash dividends paid on the shares they hold or through 
optional  cash  payments  of  at  least  $1  per  payment,  up  to  a  maximum  of 
$5,000 per quarter. 

For  additional  information,  shareholders  may  contact  National  Bank’s 
registrar  and  transfer  agent,  Computershare  Trust  Company  of  Canada,  at 
1-888-838-1407. To participate in the plan, National Bank’s beneficial or non-
registered  common  shareholders  must  contact  their  financial  institution  or 
broker. 

DDiirreecctt  DDeeppoossiitt    
Shareholders may elect to have their dividend payments deposited directly via 
electronic funds transfer to their bank account at any financial institution that 
is a member of the Canadian Payments Association. To do so, they must send 
a  written  request  to  the  Transfer  Agent,  Computershare  Trust  Company  of 
Canada. 

216

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HHeeaadd  OOffffiiccee  
National Bank of Canada 
600 De La Gauchetière Street West, 4th Floor 
Montreal, Quebec  H3B 4L2  Canada  

Telephone:   514-394-5000 
Website:  

nbc.ca 

AAnnnnuuaall  MMeeeettiinngg    
The Annual Meeting of Holders of Common Shares of the Bank will be held on 
April 24, 2020, at National Bank of Canada’s head Office in Montreal, Quebec, 
Canada. 

PPuubblliicc  AAccccoouunnttaabbiilliittyy  SSttaatteemmeenntt    
The 2019 Social Responsibility Report will be available in March 2020 on the 
Bank’s website at nbc.ca. 

CCoommmmuunniiccaattiioonn  wwiitthh  SShhaarreehhoollddeerrss  
For  information  about  stock  transfers,  address  changes,  dividends,  lost 
certificates,  tax  forms  and  estate  transfers,  shareholders  of  record  may 
contact the Transfer Agent at the following address:   

CCoommppuutteerrsshhaarree  TTrruusstt  CCoommppaannyy  ooff  CCaannaaddaa  
Share Ownership Management 
100 University Avenue, 8th Floor 
Toronto, Ontario  M5J 2Y1  Canada 

Telephone:   1-888-838-1407 
1-888-453-0330 
Fax:   
service@computershare.com 
E-mail:  
computershare.com 
Website:  

CCaauuttiioonn  RReeggaarrddiinngg  FFoorrwwaarrdd--LLooookkiinngg  SSttaatteemmeennttss  
From  time  to  time,  National  Bank  of  Canada  makes  written  and  oral 
forward-looking statements, including in this Annual Report, in other filings 
with Canadian regulators, in reports to shareholders, in press releases and in 
other  communications.  All  such  statements  are  made  pursuant  to  the 
Canadian and American securities legislation and the provisions of the United 
States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. 

Additional information about these statements can be found on page 13 of this 
Annual Report. 

TTrraaddeemmaarrkkss    
The trademarks belonging to National Bank of Canada and used in this report 
include National Bank of Canada, Private Wealth 1859, CashPerformer, NBC 
CapS II, NBC Asset Trust, NBC Capital Trust, and National Bank All-in-One and 
their  respective  logos.  Certain  trademarks  owned  by  third  parties  are  also 
mentioned in this report. 

PPoouurr  oobbtteenniirr  uunnee  vveerrssiioonn  ffrraannççaaiissee  dduu  RRaappppoorrtt  aannnnuueell,,    
vveeuuiilllleezz  vvoouuss  aaddrreesssseerr  àà  ::  
Relations avec les investisseurs 
Banque Nationale du Canada 
600, rue De La Gauchetière Ouest, 7e étage 
Montréal (Québec)  H3B 4L2  Canada 

Téléphone :    
Adresse électronique :   relationsinvestisseurs@bnc.ca 

1 866 517-5455 

LLeeggaall  DDeeppoossiitt  
ISBN 978-2-921835-63-3 
Legal deposit – Bibliothèque et Archives nationales du Québec, 2019 
Legal deposit – Library and Archives Canada, 2019 

Shareholders  whose shares are held by a market intermediary are asked to 
contact the market intermediary concerned. 

PPrriinnttiinngg  
L’Empreinte 

Other shareholder inquiries can be addressed to: 
Investor Relations 
National Bank of Canada 
National Bank Tower 
600 De La Gauchetière Street West, 7th Floor 
Montreal, Quebec  H3B 4L2  Canada 

Telephone:   1-866-517-5455 
E-mail:  
Website:  

investorrelations@nbc.ca 
nbc.ca/investorrelations 

NNoorrmmaall  CCoouurrssee  IIssssuueerr  BBiidd 
The  Bank  began  a  normal  course  issuer  bid  (NCIB)  to  repurchase  for 
cancellation up to 6,000,000 common shares for the period starting June 10, 
2019  and  ending  June  9,  2020.  Shareholders  may  obtain,  free  of  charge,  a 
copy of the notice of intent regarding this NCIB, which was approved by the 
Toronto Stock Exchange, by writing to the Corporate Secretary, National Bank 
of Canada, 600 De La Gauchetière Street West, 4th floor, Montreal, Quebec, 
Canada H3B 4L2. 

National Bank of Canada is proud to help save the environment by using 
EcoLogo and Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) certified paper. 

At a Glance

Founded  in  1859,  National  Bank  of  Canada  offers 
financial services to individuals, businesses, institutional 
clients and governments across Canada. We are one  
of  Canada’s  six  systemically  important  banks  and  
among the most profitable banks on a global basis by 
return on equity.

We  operate  through  three  business  segments  in 
Canada—Personal and Commercial Banking, Wealth 
Management and Financial Markets—which represent  
our main sources of revenue. A fourth segment—U.S. 
Specialty Finance and International—complements the 
growth of our domestic operations.

We are a leading bank in our core Quebec market and 
also hold leadership positions across the country in 
selected activities.

We  strive  to  meet  the  highest  standards  of  social 
responsibility while creating value for our shareholders. 
We are proud to be recognized as an employer of 
choice and for promoting diversity and inclusion. 

We are headquartered in Montreal, and our securities 
are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: NA).

Table of Contents

  3  Message From the President  

and Chief Executive Officer

  5  Members of the Office of the President

  6  Message From the Chairman of the Board

7  Members of the Board of Directors

  8  Our One Mission

  9  Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG)

  12  Risk Disclosures

  13  Management’s Discussion and Analysis

  111  Audited Consolidated Financial Statements

 212  Statistical Review

 214  Glossary of Financial Terms

 216  Information for Shareholders

2.7 million Clients(1)
25,487 Employees(2)
495 Branches(3)
1,480 Banking Machines(4)
$565 B Assets Under Administration 
$281 B Total Assets
$7,432 M Total Revenues
$2,322 M Net Income
$22.7 B Market Capitalization

and Under Management

9% 

23% 

45% 

23% 

19% 

26% 

55% 

2019 Total Revenues by 
Business Segment(5)

2019 Total Revenues by 
Geographic Distribution(5)

Personal and Commercial

Province of Quebec

Wealth Management

Financial Markets

Other Canadian provinces

Outside of Canada

U.S. Specialty Finance and International

(1 ) Clients of the Personal and Commercial segment
(2) Worldwide
(3) 422 in Canada, 70 in Cambodia and 3 in the United States (Florida)
(4) 939 in Canada and 541 in Cambodia
(5)  Excluding the Other heading

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ANNUAL REPORT

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® The NATIONAL BANK logo is a registered trademark of National Bank of Canada.