Waterstone Financial, Inc
Annual Report 2023

Plain-text annual report

WATERSTONE FINANCIAL, INC. MESSAGE FROM BILL BRUSS Dear Fellow Shareholder: Reflecting on the challenges of 2023, we encountered continued headwinds related to the impacts of higher interest rates across both our community bank business and our mortgage business. Despite these hurdles, our community bank delivered positive earnings and a 10% growth in our loan portfolio, all while maintaining excellent asset quality. Additionally, we strategically invested in technology to enhance the delivery of our products and services, aiming to boost operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. The combination of high mortgage rates and limited housing supply challenged our mortgage banking segment throughout 2023. Despite the unfavorable market conditions, our mortgage banking business successfully assisted over 7,000 consumers purchasing new homes. Throughout the year, our focus remained on driving shareholder value as our dividend program and repurchases of our stock returned $40.0 million to our shareholders. Furthermore, our commitment to making a positive impact in the communities we serve remained steadfast. In 2023, employee-driven donations through our charitable fund totaled $725,000, supporting over 250 organizations devoted to education, women and children, veterans and first responders. In addition, our employees volunteered over 600 hours supporting these same organizations, showcasing our commitment to giving back. We are proud to have been recognized once again with the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel’s Top Workplaces Award, an appropriate tribute to our employees who continue to provide outstanding service to our customers and support to the communities we live and work in. In July, we announced the retirement of Doug Gordon as CEO, effective as of the end of the year. As both a shareholder and an employee, I want to thank Doug for his stewardship of the Company over the past 18 years. His legacy is firmly reflected by our strengths: our capital position, asset quality and focus on building and delivering shareholder value. Doug remains on the Boards of Directors of Waterstone Financial, Inc. and WaterStone Bank and serves as Chairman of the Board of Directors of Waterstone Mortgage Corporation; I am pleased that we will continue to benefit from Doug’s knowledge and experience. On behalf of Waterstone Financial, Inc., thank you to our customers and shareholders for their continued support. Sincerely, William Bruss President & Chief Executive Officer April 11, 2024 Dear Fellow Shareholder, We invite you to attend the Waterstone Financial, Inc. Annual Meeting of Shareholders, which will be held at WaterStone Bank SSB, 11200 W. Plank Ct., Wauwatosa, Wisconsin at 9:00 a.m., Central Time, on Tuesday, May 21, 2024. We are furnishing proxy materials to our shareholders over the internet, as permitted by rules adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission. You may read, print and download our 2023 Annual Report to Shareholders on Form 10-K and our Proxy Statement at www.cstproxy.com/wsbonline/2024. On April 11, 2024, we mailed our shareholders a notice containing instructions on how to access these materials and how to vote their shares online. The notice provides instructions on how you can request a paper copy of these materials by mail, by telephone or by e-mail. If you requested your materials via e-mail, the e-mail contains voting instructions and links to the materials on the internet. You may vote your shares by internet, by telephone, by regular mail or in person at the Annual Meeting. Instructions regarding the various methods of voting are contained on the notice and on the Proxy Card. The proxy materials describe the formal business to be transacted at the Annual Meeting. Included in the materials is our Annual Report on Form 10-K, which contains detailed information concerning our activities and operating performance. On behalf of the board of directors, we request that you vote your shares now, even if you currently plan to attend the Annual Meeting. This will not prevent you from voting in person, but will assure that your vote is counted. Sincerely, WILLIAM F. BRUSS Chief Executive Officer WATERSTONE FINANCIAL, INC. 11200 W. Plank Ct. Wauwatosa, Wisconsin 53226 (414) 761-1000 ______________________________ NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS TO BE HELD ON MAY 21, 2024. _____________________________ To the Shareholders of Waterstone Financial, Inc.: The 2024 annual meeting of shareholders of Waterstone Financial, Inc. will be held on Tuesday, May 21, 2024 at 9:00 a.m., Central Time, at WaterStone Bank SSB, 11200 W. Plank Ct., Wauwatosa, Wisconsin for the following purposes: (1) Electing two directors to serve for a term expiring in 2027; (2) Ratifying the selection of FORVIS, LLP as Waterstone Financial, Inc.’s independent registered public accounting firm; (3) Approving an advisory, non-binding resolution to approve the executive compensation described in the Proxy Statement; and (4) Transacting such other business as may properly come before the Annual Meeting or any adjournment or postponement thereof. The board of directors has fixed March 27, 2024 as the record date for the determination of shareholders entitled to notice of and to vote at the annual meeting and any adjournment thereof. Only shareholders of record at the close of business on that date will be entitled to vote at the annual meeting and any adjournments thereof. We call your attention to the Proxy Statement accompanying this notice for a more complete statement regarding the matters to be acted upon at the annual meeting. Please read it carefully. By Order of the Board of Directors Wauwatosa, Wisconsin April 11, 2024 William F. Bruss Chief Executive Officer PROXY STATEMENT WATERSTONE FINANCIAL, INC. 11200 W. Plank Ct. Wauwatosa, Wisconsin 53226 (414) 761-1000 ______________________ SOLICITATION AND VOTING This Proxy Statement and accompanying Proxy Card are furnished to the shareholders of Waterstone Financial, Inc. (“Waterstone Financial” or the “Company”) in connection with the solicitation of proxies by the Waterstone Financial board of directors for use at the annual meeting of shareholders to be held at WaterStone Bank SSB, 11200 W. Plank Ct., Wauwatosa, Wisconsin at 9:00 a.m., Central Time on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, and at any adjournment of the meeting. The 2023 Annual Report on Form 10-K is enclosed with the Proxy Statement and contains business and financial information concerning Waterstone Financial. Our proxy materials are being made available to shareholders on or about April 11, 2024. Record Date and Meeting Information. The board of directors has fixed March 27, 2024 as the record date for the determination of shareholders entitled to notice of and to vote at the annual meeting and any adjournment thereof. Only holders of record of our common stock, the only class of Waterstone Financial stock outstanding as of the close of business on the record date, are entitled to notice of and to vote at the annual meeting. Each share of common stock is entitled to one vote. As of the record date, there were 19,916,843 shares of common stock issued and outstanding. The board of directors of Waterstone Financial knows of no matters to be acted upon at the annual meeting other than as set forth in the notice attached to this Proxy Statement. If any other matters properly come before the annual meeting, or any adjournment thereof, it is the intention of the persons named in the proxy to vote such proxies in accordance with their best judgment on such matters. Voting Your Shares. Any shareholder entitled to vote may vote either by mailing a properly executed proxy or online as described in the notice to shareholders and the proxy card. Shares represented by properly executed proxies received by Waterstone Financial will be voted at the annual meeting, or any adjournment thereof, in accordance with the terms of such proxies, unless revoked. Where no instructions are indicated, validly executed proxies will be voted “FOR” the proposals set forth in this Proxy Statement for consideration at the Annual Meeting. A shareholder may revoke a proxy at any time prior to the time when it is voted by filing a written notice of revocation with our corporate secretary at the address set forth above, by delivering a properly executed proxy bearing a later date, using the internet or telephone voting options explained on the Proxy Card. Shares in Employee Plans. Any person who owns shares through an allocation to that person’s account under the WaterStone Bank SSB 2015 Amended and Restated Employee Stock Ownership Plan (the “ESOP”) or who has purchased shares in the Employer Stock Fund in the WaterStone Bank SSB 401(k) Plan (the “401(k) Plan”) will receive separate Vote Authorization Forms to instruct the ESOP trustee and 401(k) Plan trustee how to vote those shares. The deadline for returning instructions is May 14, 2024. The trustee of both the ESOP and 401(k) Plan, Principal Trust Company, will vote shares allocated to a plan participant’s account in accordance with the participant’s instructions. Upon the direction of the plan administrator, the trustee will vote the unallocated ESOP shares and any allocated ESOP shares for which no voting instructions are received in the same proportion as allocated shares for which it has received voting instructions. In addition, the trustee will vote shares allocated to participants’ accounts in the 401(k) Plan for which no voting instructions are received in accordance with directions received from the plan administrator. 1 Quorum and Required Vote. A majority of the votes entitled to be cast by the shares entitled to vote, represented in person or by proxy, will constitute a quorum of shareholders at the annual meeting. Shares for which authority is withheld to vote for director nominees and broker non-votes (i.e., proxies from brokers or nominees indicating that such persons have not received instructions from the beneficial owners or other persons entitled to vote shares as to a matter with respect to which the brokers or nominees do not have discretionary power to vote) will be considered present for purposes of establishing a quorum. The inspector of election appointed by the board of directors will count the votes and ballots at the annual meeting. As to Proposal 1, the election of directors, shareholders may vote “FOR” or “WITHHOLD” as to each or all of the nominees. A plurality of the votes cast at the annual meeting by the holders of shares of common stock entitled to vote is required for the election of directors. In other words, the individuals who receive the largest number of votes are elected as directors up to the maximum number of directors in a class to be chosen at the annual meeting. With respect to the election of directors, any shares not voted, whether by withheld authority, broker non-vote or otherwise, will have no effect on the election of directors except to the extent that the failure to vote for an individual results in another individual receiving a comparatively larger number of votes. As to Proposal 2, the ratification of the independent registered public accounting firm, shareholders may: (i) vote “FOR” the ratification; (ii) vote “AGAINST” the ratification; or (iii) “ABSTAIN” from voting on the matter. The affirmative vote of a majority of the votes cast at the Annual Meeting, without regard to either broker non-votes, or shares as to which the “ABSTAIN” box has been selected on the proxy card, is required to ratify FORVIS, LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for the year ending December 31, 2024. As to Proposal 3, the advisory, non-binding resolution to approve our executive compensation as described in this Proxy Statement, a shareholder may: (i) vote “FOR” the resolution; (ii) vote “AGAINST” the resolution; or (iii) “ABSTAIN” from voting on the resolution. The affirmative vote of a majority of the votes cast at the Annual Meeting, without regard to either broker non-votes, or shares as to which the “ABSTAIN” box has been selected on the proxy card, is required for the approval of this non-binding resolution. While this vote is required by law, it will neither be binding on Waterstone Financial, Inc. or the board of directors, nor will it create or imply any change in the fiduciary duties of, or impose any additional fiduciary duty on, the members of the board of directors. Expenses and Solicitation. We will pay all expenses incurred in connection with the solicitation of proxies. Proxies will be solicited principally by mail, but may also be solicited by our directors, officers and other employees in person or by telephone, facsimile or other means of communication. Those directors, officers and employees will receive no compensation therefor in addition to their regular compensation, but may be reimbursed for their related out-of-pocket expenses. Brokers, dealers, banks, or their nominees, who hold common stock on behalf of another will be asked to send proxy materials and related documents to the beneficial owners of such stock, and we will reimburse those persons for their reasonable expenses. In addition, we have entered into an agreement with Laurel Hill Advisory Group, LLC to assist in soliciting proxies for the annual meeting and we have agreed to pay them $5,000, plus out-of- pocket expenses, for these services. Householding. Some banks, brokers, broker-dealers and other similar organizations acting as nominee record holders may be participating in the practice of “householding” proxy materials. This means that only one copy of the notice of meeting and instructions on how to access the proxy materials and the 2023 Annual Report may have been sent to multiple stockholders in your household. If you would prefer to receive separate copies of these materials for other stockholders in your household, either now or in the future, please contact your bank, broker, broker-dealer or other similar organization serving as your nominee. Upon written notice to Mark R. Gerke, Chief Financial Officer, Waterstone Financial, Inc., 11200 W. Plank Ct., Wauwatosa, Wisconsin 53226, or via telephone at (414) 761-1000, we will promptly provide separate copies of the 2023 Annual Report and/or this Proxy Statement. Stockholders sharing an address who are receiving multiple copies of this Proxy Statement and/or the 2023 Annual Report and who wish to receive a single copy of these materials in the future will need to contact their bank, broker, broker-dealer or other similar organization serving as their nominee to request that only a single copy of each document be mailed to all stockholders at the shared address in the future. 2 Limitations on Voting. The Company’s Articles of Incorporation provide that, subject to certain exceptions, record owners of the Company’s common stock that is beneficially owned by a person who beneficially owns in excess of 10% of the Company’s outstanding shares are not entitled to any vote any of the shares held in excess of the 10% limit. STOCK OWNERSHIP The following table shows the amount of our common stock held by groups who are beneficial owner of more than 5% of our shares as of December 31, 2023, based upon information filed with the SEC. The “Percent of All Common Stock Outstanding” reflects the percentage of our common stock outstanding as of March 27, 2024. Name of Beneficial Owner Dimensional Fund Advisors LP Building One 6300 Bee Cave Road Austin, Texas 78746 BlackRock, Inc. 55 East 52nd Street New York, New York 10055 Renaissance Technologies LLC Renaissance Technologies Holdings Corporation 800 Third Avenue New York, New York 10022 Delaware Charter Guarantee & Trust Company dba Principal Trust Company as Trustee for the 2010 Amended and Restated Waterstone Bank SSB Employee Stock Ownership Plan and the Waterstone Bank 401(k) Plan 1013 Centre Road Suite 300 Wilmington, Delaware 19805-1265 Total Shares Beneficially Owned 1,652,359 (1) 1,671,665 (2) 1,273,136 (3) Percent of All Common Stock Outstanding 8.3% 8.4% 6.4% 2,275,957 (4) 11.4% (1) Dimensional Fund Advisors LP reported ownership as of December 31, 2023, on behalf of itself and certain subsidiaries. It reported that it had sole dispositive power for 1,652,359 shares and shared dispositive power for no shares. It further reported that it had sole voting power for 1,623,168 shares and shared voting power for no shares. (2) BlackRock, Inc. reported ownership as of December 31, 2023, on behalf of itself and certain subsidiaries. It reported that it had sole dispositive power for 1,671,665 shares and shared dispositive power for no shares. It further reported that it had sole voting power for 1,646,460 shares and shared voting power for no shares. (3) Renaissance Technologies LLC reported ownership as of December 31, 2023, on behalf of itself and certain subsidiaries. It reported that it had sole dispositive power for 1,273,136 shares and shared dispositive power for no shares. It further reported that it had sole voting power for 1,273,136 shares and shared voting power for no shares. (4) Delaware Charter Guarantee & Trust Company dba Principal Trust Company as Trustee for the 2015 Amended and Restated WaterStone Bank SSB Employee Stock Ownership Plan and the WaterStone Bank SSB 401(k) Plan reported ownership as of December 31, 2023, on behalf of the 2015 Amended and Restated WaterStone Bank SSB Employee Stock Ownership Plan and the WaterStone Bank SSB 401(k) Plan. It reported that it had shared dispositive power for 2,275,957 shares and sole dispositive power for no shares. It further reported that it had shared voting power for 2,275,957 shares and sole voting power for no shares. 3 The following table shows the amount of our common stock beneficially owned by each of our directors, executive officers and directors and executive officers as a group, as of March 27, 2024. Unless otherwise noted, the persons listed have sole voting and dispositive power over their shares. Name of Beneficial Owner Ellen S. Bartel William F. Bruss Mark R. Gerke Julie A. Glynn Douglas S. Gordon Ryan J. Gordon Michael L. Hansen Patrick S. Lawton Jeffrey R. McGuiness Kristine A. Rappé Stephen J. Schmidt Derek L. Tyus Shares Owned Directly Shares Owned Indirectly (1) Stock Options Exercisable within 60 Days of Record Date Total Shares Beneficially Owned - 25,000 40,000 Percent of All Shares Outstanding * 15,000 36,051 36,264 10,743 556,889 8,585 74,529 37,752 13,735 75,294 36,035 79,872 186,541 49,131 10,000 3,842 27,318 70,078 6,440 - - - - - 110,580 15,000 20,000 89,016 44,478 * * * - 632,183 3.2% 10,000 12,500 37,500 - 54,620 * 278,913 1.4% 96,631 3,842 100,000 127,318 100,000 170,078 - 6,440 * * * * * All Directors and Executive Officers as a Group 900,213 433,886 320,000 1,654,099 8.3% Less than 1%. ______________________ * (1) Number of shares with sole voting and dispositive power: Mr. Bruss – 74,529; Mr. Gerke – 37,752; Mr. R. Gordon – 36,035; Ms. Glynn – 13,735; Mr. D. Gordon – 75,294. Number of shares with shared voting and dispositive power; Mr. Hansen – 186,541; Mr. Lawton – 10,000. PROPOSAL 1 – THE ELECTION OF DIRECTORS Waterstone Financial’s board of directors consists of seven members. Our bylaws provide that approximately one-third of the directors are to be elected annually. Directors of Waterstone Financial are generally elected to serve for a three-year period and until their respective successors have been duly elected and qualified. Directors Douglas Gordon and Patrick Lawton, whose terms expire at the annual meeting, are being nominated for re-election as directors, each for a term expiring at the 2027 annual meeting of shareholders. Shares represented by proxies will be voted FOR the election of the nominees unless otherwise specified by the executing shareholder. If a nominee declines or is unable to act as a director, proxies may be voted with discretionary authority for a substitute nominee designated by the board. Except as indicated herein, there are no arrangements or understandings between any nominee and any other person pursuant to which such nominee was selected. The following details include for each of our nominees and directors: their age as of December 31, 2023; the year in which they first became a director of WaterStone Bank, the operating subsidiary of the Company; the year that their term expires; and their business experience for at least the past five years. The members of the Company’s board of directors are the same as the members of the board of directors of WaterStone Bank. None of the directors listed below currently serves as a director, or served as a director during the past five years, of a publicly-held entity (other than Waterstone Financial). The following also includes the particular experience, qualifications, attributes, or skills considered by the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee that led the board of directors to conclude that 4 such person should serve as a director of Waterstone Financial. The mailing address for each person listed is 11200 W. Plank Ct., Wauwatosa, Wisconsin 53226. The board of directors unanimously recommends that shareholders vote FOR the election of the director nominees listed below. Name and Age Douglas S. Gordon, 66 Principal Occupation and Business Experience Director Since (1) Nominees for terms expiring in 2027 Mr. Gordon is the former Chief Executive Officer of Waterstone Financial and WaterStone Bank, beginning in 2007 to January 2024; President of Waterstone Financial and WaterStone Bank from 2007 to 2022, and Chief Operating Officer of WaterStone Bank from 2005 to 2007; real estate investor. Mr. Gordon brings extensive prior banking experience as an executive officer at M&I Bank and at Security Savings Bank. He has extensive firsthand knowledge and experience with our lending markets and our customers. Mr. Gordon has a B.A. from the University of Wisconsin – Parkside and an M.B.A. from Marquette University. Mr. Gordon is the father of Ryan J. Gordon. 2005 Patrick S. Lawton, 67 Mr. Lawton is the Managing Director of Fixed Income Capital Markets for Baird. Mr. Lawton is also a member of Baird’s board of directors. As a Baird Managing Director, Mr. Lawton brings his investment portfolio expertise to the board of directors. Mr. Lawton has a B.S.B.A. and an M.B.A. from Marquette University. 2000 Ellen S. Bartel, 69 Kristine A. Rappé, 67 Continuing Directors – Terms expiring in 2025 Ms. Bartel is the former President of Divine Savior Holy Angels (DSHA) High School (Milwaukee, Wisconsin) from 1998 until 2018, where she achieved significant improvements in DSHA’s curriculum, facilities, financial infrastructure, image, and reputation. Ms. Bartel balanced DSHA’s budget for 18 consecutive years, oversaw endowment growth from under $1 million to over $14 million, and developed recruitment strategies resulting in an incoming class wait list for 19 consecutive years. Prior to her employment at DSHA, Ms. Bartel held several positions at Alverno College (Milwaukee, Wisconsin) (1986 to 1997), with the most recent being Vice President of Institutional Advancement from 1994 to 1997. Ms. Bartel’s experience overseeing a large educational institution provides the board of directors with significant perspective on financial management and human resources matters. Ms. Bartel has a B.A. and an M.S.A. from the University of Notre Dame. Ms. Rappé is the former Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer of WEC Energy Group (2004 to 2012). Her roles at WEC Energy Group also included Vice President and Corporate Secretary (2001 to 2004) and Vice President of Customer Services (1994 to 2001). In these roles, Ms. Rappé had responsibility for shared services including information technology, human resources, supply chain management, business continuity/corporate security, and the WEC Foundation. Ms. Rappé’s experience overseeing a large corporate entity provides the board of directors with significant perspective on financial management and human resources matters, and she has a long-standing history of community involvement and public service. Ms. Rappé has an M.A. from Northeastern University and a B.A. from the University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh. 2013 2013 Continuing Directors – Terms expiring in 2026 Michael L. Hansen, 73 Mr. Hansen is a business investor who currently holds significant ownership interests in Jacsten Holdings LLC. In addition to extensive entrepreneurial experience, Mr. Hansen is a C.P.A. with 13 years of audit and tax experience at an international public accounting firm. Mr. Hansen brings this experience to the board of directors and to the Audit Committee in particular. Mr. Hansen has a B.B.A. from the University of Notre Dame. 2003 5 Stephen J. Schmidt, 62 Mr. Schmidt is the President of Schmidt and Bartelt Funeral and Cremation Services. Mr. Schmidt has entrepreneurial experience and extensive community relationships throughout the communities served by WaterStone Bank. Mr. Schmidt has an Associate’s Degree from the New England Institute and a B.A. from the University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point. 2002 Derek L. Tyus, 54 Mr. Tyus currently serves as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Versiti, Inc., a national leader in innovative blood health solutions. Before joining Versiti, Inc. in 2024, Mr. Tyus was Senior Vice President and Chief Investment Officer of West Bend Mutual Insurance Company. He had been with West Bend since 2016. Before joining West Bend, Mr. Tyus was a director for Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Company. Mr. Tyus had been in the insurance industry for over 20 years, holding investment positions in private debt and equity, real estate, wealth management as well as strategy and administration. Mr. Tyus is a graduate of Marquette University and received his M.B.A. from the Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan. 2021 ____________ (1) Indicates the date when the director was first elected to the board of WaterStone Bank. Messrs. Lawton, Hansen, Schmidt and Gordon became directors of Waterstone Financial’s predecessor federal corporation in 2005. Ms. Bartel and Ms. Rappé became directors of Waterstone Financial in 2014. Mr. Tyus became a director of Waterstone Financial in 2021. Information regarding our named executive officers (“Named Executive Officers” or “NEOs”) who are not directors of Waterstone Financial is set forth in the following table. Except as noted below, each of these individuals has held that position for at least the past five years. Executive Officers Name and Age William F. Bruss, 54 Mark R. Gerke, 49 Julie A. Glynn, 60 Ryan J. Gordon, 37 Offices and Positions with Waterstone Financial and WaterStone Bank Chief Executive Officer since 2024. President since January 2022, Chief Operating Officer from 2013 through 2023, General Counsel and Secretary, Waterstone Financial and WaterStone Bank. Executive Officer Since 2005 Executive Vice President since January 2020, Chief Financial Officer since 2016, Chief Accounting Officer since 2014, Senior Vice President, Waterstone Financial and WaterStone Bank since 2014, Controller 2005 to 2016. Executive Vice President since January 2022, Chief Retail Officer of WaterStone Bank since March 2018, Senior Vice President - District Manager of Associated Bank since 2013. Executive Vice President/Chief Credit Officer since January 2022, Vice President/Chief Credit Officer 2018 to 2022, Credit Officer 2015 to 2018, Lead Credit Analyst 2012 to 2015, Sr. Credit Analyst 2010 to 2012. Mr. Gordon is the son of Douglas S. Gordon. 2016 2018 2022 Jeffrey R. McGuiness, 58 President and Chief Executive Officer of Waterstone Mortgage Corporation since November 2020. Prior to his role with Waterstone Mortgage Corporation, Chief Sales Officer, Embrace Home Loans – 2015 through November 2020, Chief Executive Officer, Lenders One – 2012 to 2015. 2020 6 Meetings and Committees The board of directors of Waterstone Financial met 12 times during the year ended December 31, 2023 on behalf of Waterstone Financial and 12 times in their capacity as directors of WaterStone Bank. The board of directors consists of a majority of “independent directors” within the meaning of the NASDAQ corporate governance listing standards. The board of directors determines the independence of each director in accordance with NASDAQ Stock Market rules, which include all elements of independence as set forth in the listing requirements for NASDAQ securities. The board of directors has determined that Directors Bartel, Hansen, Lawton, Rappé, Schmidt and Tyus are “independent” directors within the meaning of such standards. In evaluating the independence of our independent directors, we found no transactions between us and our independent directors that are not required to be reported in this Proxy Statement and that had an impact on our determination as to the independence of our directors. Additionally, the independent directors regularly meet without management or non-independent directors present. No member of the board of directors or any committee thereof attended fewer than 75% of the aggregate of: (i) the total number of meetings of the board of directors (held during the period for which each director has been a director); and (ii) the total number of meetings held by all committees of the board of directors on which he or she served (during the periods that he or she served). We conduct business through meetings of the Company’s and Bank’s boards of directors and their committees. The boards of directors of the Company and the Bank have established standing committees discussed below. The standing committees of the Company include an Audit Committee, Compensation Committee, Executive Committee and a Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. The following table details the composition of our board committees, as of December 31, 2023. Each committee is composed entirely of independent directors. Director Ellen S. Bartel Michael L. Hansen Patrick S. Lawton (Chair) Kristine A. Rappé Stephen J. Schmidt Derek L. Tyus Audit Committee Compensation Committee Executive Committee X Chair X X X Chair X X X X Chair X X Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee Co-Chair X Co-Chair Douglas S. Gordon was appointed to the Executive Committee effective on January 5, 2024. Audit Committee. The audit committee of Waterstone Financial (the “Audit Committee”) met six times during the year ended December 31, 2023. The board of directors has determined that each member of the Audit Committee meets not only the independence requirements applicable to the committee as prescribed by the NASDAQ corporate governance listing standards, but also by the Securities and Exchange Commission. On behalf of the Audit Committee, Mr. Hansen, its chair, also regularly consults with Waterstone Financial’s independent registered public accounting firm about Waterstone Financial’s periodic public financial disclosures. The board believes that all of the members of the Audit Committee have sufficient experience, knowledge and other personal qualifications to be “financially literate” and to be active, effective and contributing members of the Audit Committee. Mr. Hansen has been designated an “audit committee financial expert” pursuant to the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and the Securities and Exchange Commission regulations. See also “Report of the Audit Committee” for other information pertaining to the Audit Committee. Compensation Committee. The compensation committee of Waterstone Financial (the “Compensation Committee”) held seven meetings during the year ended December 31, 2023. Each member of the Compensation Committee is considered independent as defined in the NASDAQ corporate governance listing standards. The Compensation Committee has the responsibility for and authority to either establish or recommend to the board: compensation policies and plans; salaries, bonuses and benefits for all officers; salary and benefit levels for employees; determinations with respect to stock options and restricted stock awards; and other personnel policies and procedures. 7 The Compensation Committee has the authority to delegate the development, implementation and execution of benefit plans to management. See also “Compensation Discussion and Analysis” and “Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation” for other information pertaining to the Compensation Committee. Executive Committee. The executive committee of Waterstone Financial (the “Executive Committee”) held 11 meetings during the year ended December 31, 2023. The Executive Committee has the responsibility to review and/or approve certain loans made or to be made by the Bank in accordance with the Bank’s Lending Policy. The Executive Committee reviews loan submissions, communicate requests for additional information, and promptly communicate the approval or disapproval of a loan to management. Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. The nominating and corporate governance committee (“Nominating Committee”) of Waterstone Financial held one meeting during the year ended December 31, 2023. Each member of the Nominating Committee is considered “independent” as defined in the NASDAQ corporate governance listing standards. The functions of the Nominating Committee include the following: • • • • to lead the search for individuals qualified to become members of the board of directors and to select director nominees to be presented for shareholder approval; to review and monitor compliance with the requirements for board independence; to review the committee structure and make recommendations to the board of directors regarding committee membership; and to develop and recommend to the board of directors for its approval a set of corporate governance guidelines. The Nominating Committee identifies nominees by first evaluating the current members of the board of directors willing to continue in service. Current members of the board of directors with skills and experience that are relevant to our business and who are willing to continue in service are first considered for re-nomination, balancing the value of continuity of service by existing members of the board of directors with that of obtaining new perspectives. If any member of the board of directors does not wish to continue in service, or if the committee or the board decides not to re-nominate a member for re-election, the Nominating Committee may solicit suggestions for director candidates from all directors. Board Diversity. The board believes that the Company and its shareholders are best served by having a Board of Directors that brings a diversity of education, experience, skills and perspective to Board meetings. While these attributes are considered on an ongoing basis, the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee and the Board of Directors will particularly consider such diversity in the recruitment and deliberation regarding prospective director nominees. Board Qualifications. Qualifications of director candidates are described in the Appendix to the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee Charter, which can be found on our website, at www.wsbonline.com, on the “Investor Relations” link under the “About” tab, then “Corporate Overview” and “Governance Documents.” Factors considered include strength of character, honesty and integrity, an inquiring and independent mind, judgment, skill, diversity, education, experience with businesses and other organizations, the interplay of the candidates’ experience with the experience of other board members and the extent to which the candidate would be a desirable addition to the board and its committees. Nominees must have a background which demonstrates an understanding of business and financial affairs and the complexities of a business organization. Although a career in business is not essential, the nominee should have a proven record of competence and accomplishments through leadership in industry, education, the professions or government. Areas of core competency that should be represented on the board as a whole include accounting and finance, business judgment, management, crisis response, industry knowledge, leadership and strategic vision. Director Election Voting Standard. A nominee for director shall be elected to the Board if he or she receives approval on a plurality of votes cast. Since our organization as a publicly-held Company, we have not yet had a director elected by less than a majority of the votes cast. Given our plurality voting standard, the Board is committed 8 to conducting extensive shareholder outreach to understand any concerns, in the event that a director nominee fails to receive majority support in any future election. Board Term or Age Limits. The Board does not currently employ formal term or age limits with respect to Board service. Rather than instituting a formal term or age limit, the Board employs an annual assessment to measure how well the skills of board members align with the current strategy of the Company. The foundation of this assessment is summarized in a Director Skills Matrix (detailed below). Board Evaluation. The Board views the process of collective and individual self-assessment as an opportunity to enhance multiple dimensions of board effectiveness and strengthen governance practices. Currently, this evaluation process takes place in an informal manner before, during and after Board and Committee meetings. The Board is in the process of developing a framework for an annual assessment process that will be utilized to perform evaluations at a Board, Committee and/or Director level. Further, the Board is committed to expanding disclosures in future proxy statements to demonstrate the rigor of the board evaluation process. Director Skills, Experience and Demographics Matrix. The following matrix provides information about the board of directors, including certain types of knowledge, skills, experience and other attributes possessed by one of more of them which the Board believes are relevant to the Company’s business and industry. The matrix does not capture all of the knowledge, skills and experiences possessed by the directors, and the Board believes that each director has the ability to contribute to the decision-making process in every area listed. Bartel Gordon Hansen Lawton Rappé Schmidt Tyus Knowledge, Skills and Experience Financial Industry Risk Management Accounting Corporate Governance/Ethics Legal/Regulatory HR/Compensation Executive Experience Investments Operations Strategic Planning Technology/Cyber Mergers and Acquisitions Crisis Response Demographic Background African American Alaskan Native or Native American Asian Hispanic Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • White/Caucasian • • • • • • Two or More Races or Ethnicities LGBTQ+ Gender Female • 9 • Male Non-Binary Board Tenure • • • • Years on Waterstone Financial Inc. 9 18 18 18 9 18 • 4 The Nominating Committee will also take into account whether a candidate satisfies the criteria for “independence” under the NASDAQ corporate governance listing standards and, if a nominee is sought for service on the Audit Committee, the financial and accounting expertise of a candidate, including whether an individual qualifies as an “audit committee financial expert.” The Nominating Committee will consider proposed nominees whose names are submitted to it by shareholders, and it does not intend to evaluate proposed nominees differently depending upon who has made the proposal. Shareholders can submit the names of qualified candidates for director by writing to our Corporate Secretary at 11200 W. Plank Ct., Wauwatosa, Wisconsin 53226. The Corporate Secretary must receive a submission not earlier than the 90th day nor later than the 80th day prior to date of the annual meeting; provided, however, that in the event that less than 90 days’ notice or prior public disclosure of the date of the annual meeting is provided to shareholders, then, to be timely, notice by the stockholder must be so received not later than the tenth day following the day on which public announcement of the date of such meeting is first made. The submission must include the following information: • • • • • • • • • a statement that the writer is a shareholder and is proposing a candidate for consideration by the Nominating Committee; the name and address of the shareholder as they appear on our books and number of shares of our common stock that are owned beneficially by such shareholder (if the shareholder is not a holder of record, appropriate evidence of the shareholder’s ownership will be required); the name, address and contact information for the candidate, and the number of shares of common stock that are owned by the candidate (if the candidate is not a holder of record, appropriate evidence of the shareholder’s ownership should be provided); a statement of the candidate’s business and educational experience; such other information regarding the candidate as would be required to be included in the Proxy Statement pursuant to Securities and Exchange Commission Regulation 14A; a statement detailing any relationship between us and the candidate; a statement detailing any relationship between the candidate and any of our customers, suppliers or competitors; detailed information about any relationship or understanding between the proposing shareholder and the candidate; and a statement that the candidate is willing to be considered and willing to serve as a director if nominated and elected. A nomination submitted by a shareholder for presentation at an annual meeting of shareholders will also need to comply with any additional procedural and informational requirements we may adopt in the future, including those set forth in our Bylaws and in the “Shareholder Proposals and Notices” section of this Proxy Statement. Waterstone Financial has adopted charters for the Audit, Compensation, Executive and Nominating Committees. We will continue to respond to and comply with Securities and Exchange Commission and NASDAQ Stock Market requirements relating to board committees. Copies of the charters for our Audit, Compensation and Nominating Committees (including director selection criteria) and other corporate governance documents can be found on our website, at www.wsbonline.com, on the “Investor Relations” link under the “About” tab, then “Corporate Overview” and “Governance Documents.” If any of those documents are changed, or related documents adopted, those changes and new documents will be posted on our corporate website at that address. 10 Other Board and Corporate Governance Matters Board Leadership Structure and Risk Oversight Role. The role of chairman of the board of directors and chief executive officer of the Company are not currently held by the same person. The chairman of the board has never been an officer or employee of the Company or WaterStone Bank. The foregoing structure is not mandated by any provision of law or our Articles of Incorporation or Bylaws, but the board of directors currently believes that this structure provides for an appropriate balance of authority between management and the board. The board of directors reserves the right to establish a different structure in the future. The board of directors of the Company, all of the members of which are also members of the board of directors of WaterStone Bank, is actively involved in the Company’s and Bank’s risk oversight activities, through the work of numerous committees of the Company and Bank, and the policy approval function of the board of directors of WaterStone Bank. Shareholder Communication. We are committed to open and ongoing dialog with our shareholders and we regularly seek feedback on a variety of issues, including business strategy, governance, executive compensation and any other topics shareholders wish to discuss. To this end, we engage with our shareholders in a variety of ways in order to obtain their feedback. In addition to shareholder outreach, the Board of Directors welcomes communication from our shareholders. A shareholder who wants to communicate with the board of directors or with any individual director can write to our Corporate Secretary at 11200 W. Plank Ct., Wauwatosa, Wisconsin 53226, Attention: Board Administration. The letter should indicate that the author is a shareholder and if shares are not held of record, should include appropriate evidence of stock ownership. Depending on the subject matter, management will: • • • forward the communication to the director or directors to whom it is addressed; attempt to handle the inquiry directly, i.e. where it is a request for information about us or it is a stock- related matter; or not forward the communication if it is primarily commercial in nature, relates to an improper or irrelevant topic, or is unduly hostile, threatening, illegal or otherwise inappropriate. At each board meeting, management shall present a summary of all communications received since the last meeting that were not forwarded and make those communications available to the directors. Board Involvement in Risk Management Process. As part of its overall responsibility to oversee the management, business, and strategy of the Company., one of the primary responsibilities of our Board of Directors is to oversee the amounts and types of risk taken by management in executing the corporate strategy, and to monitor our risk experience against the policies and procedures set to control those risks. The Board’s risk oversight function is carried out through its approval of various policies and procedures, such as our lending and investment policies; ratification or approval of investments and loans exceeding certain thresholds; and regular review of risk elements such as interest rate risk exposure, liquidity, and problem assets. Some oversight functions are delegated to committees of the Board, with such committees regularly reporting to the full Board the results of their oversight activities. For example, the Audit Committee is responsible for oversight of the independent registered public accounting firm and meets directly with the firm at various times during the course of the year. Board Oversight of Information and Cybersecurity. As a financial institution, cybersecurity presents a significant operational and reputational risk. Accordingly, we take the protection of customer and business information very seriously. We have developed a robust information/cyber security program designed to protect the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of business and customer information. As part of this program, our Chief Information Officer reports to the Board of Directors on a regular basis. Reports include information and cyber security assessment results, business continuity, disaster recovery, and incident response planning and testing, vendor management program status, and independent audit results. All information security-related policies are reviewed and approved annually by the Board. We promote a culture of continuous learning that has resulted in a highly experienced information security team. In addition to our own experienced information security team, we also partner with industry experts for managed 11 security services such as threat intelligence, firewall, intrusion detection, and intrusion prevention services to ensure protection around the clock. Highlights of the information and cybersecurity program include the following: • • • • • strong vendor oversight; deployment of defense-in-depth strategy with multiple layers of controls to provide information protection; engagement of third-party audit firms to conduct independent security assessments that include vulnerability assessments and penetration tests; conduct of new and ongoing security awareness training (as well as intermittent testing) for all teammates across the follow all Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and Nasdaq requirements for disclosure of security breaches organization. Director Attendance at Annual Shareholders’ Meeting. Although we do not have a formal policy regarding director attendance at the annual meeting, we encourage all of our directors to attend. Last year the seven directors serving at that time were present at the annual meeting. Code of Business Conduct and Ethics. Waterstone Financial has adopted a code of business conduct and ethics that reflects current circumstances and Securities and Exchange Commission and NASDAQ definitions for such codes. The code of business conduct and ethics covers us, WaterStone Bank and other subsidiaries. Among other things, the code of business conduct and ethics includes provisions regarding honest and ethical conduct, conflicts of interest, full and fair disclosure, compliance with law, and reporting of and sanctions for violations. The code applies to all directors, officers and employees of Waterstone Financial and subsidiaries. We have posted a copy of the code of business conduct and ethics on our website, at www.wsbonline.com, on the “Investor Relations” link under the “About” tab, then “Corporate Overview” and “Governance Documents.” As further matters are documented, or if those documents (including the code of business conduct and ethics) are changed, waivers from the code of business conduct and ethics are granted, or new procedures are adopted, those new documents, changes and/or waivers will be posted on the corporate website at that address. REPORT OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE The Audit Committee of the Waterstone Financial board of directors was created in accordance with Section 3(a)(58)(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). The Audit Committee’s functions include meeting with our independent registered public accounting firm and making recommendations to the board regarding the independent registered public accounting firm; assessing the adequacy of internal controls, accounting methods and procedures; review of public disclosures required for compliance with securities laws; and consideration and review of various other matters relating to our financial accounting and reporting. No member of the Audit Committee is employed by or has any other material relationship with us other than as a customer or shareholder. The members are “independent” as defined in Rule 5605(a)(2) of the NASDAQ listing standards. The board of directors has adopted a written charter for the Audit Committee which can be found on our website. In connection with its function to oversee and monitor our financial reporting process, the Audit Committee has done the following: • • • reviewed the audited financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2023 with management; discussed with FORVIS, LLP, our independent registered public accounting firm, those matters which are required to be discussed under the applicable standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”); and received the written disclosures and the letter from FORVIS, LLP required by the PCAOB and has discussed with FORVIS, LLP its independence. The Audit Committee: Michael L. Hansen, Chairman Ellen S. Bartel Kristine A. Rappé Derek L. Tyus 12 The information contained in the above report will not be deemed to be “soliciting material” or “filed” with the SEC, nor will this information be incorporated into any future filing under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Exchange Act except to the extent the Company specifically incorporates such report by reference. Based on the foregoing, the Audit Committee recommended to the board that those audited financial statements be included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023. In addition, the Audit Committee also considered the fees paid to FORVIS, LLP for services provided by FORVIS, LLP during the year ended December 31, 2023. PROPOSAL 2 – RATIFICATION OF THE APPOINTMENT OF OUR INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM The firm of FORVIS, LLP has audited the financial statements of Waterstone Financial as of and for the year ended December 31, 2023 and had served as Waterstone Financial’s principal independent accountant since 2023. The Audit Committee of the Board of Directors has selected FORVIS, LLP as our independent registered public accountants for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2023. We are submitting the selection of independent registered public accountants for shareholder ratification at the annual meeting. Although not required by the Company’s Articles of Incorporation or Bylaws, the Company has determined to ask shareholders to ratify this selection as a matter of good corporate practice. If the appointment of FORVIS, LLP is not ratified, the Audit Committee will consider the shareholders’ vote when determining whether to continue the firm’s engagement, but may ultimately determine to continue the engagement of the firm or another audit firm without re-submitting the matter to shareholders. Even if the appointment of FORVIS, LLP is ratified, the Audit Committee may in its sole discretion terminate the engagement of the firm and direct the appointment of another independent registered public accounting firm at any time during the year if it determines that such an appointment would be in the best interests of our Company and our shareholders. CliftonLarsonAllen LLP was previously the principal accountants for Waterstone Financial, Inc. On January 17, 2023, CliftonLarsonAllen, Waterstone Financial, Inc.’s independent registered public accountant, informed the Company that CliftonLarsonAllen would decline to stand for re-appointment after completion of the audit for the year ended December 31, 2022, as a result of CliftonLarsonAllen’s determination to cease providing certain audit services to SEC registrants upon completion of the 2022 audit cycle. On February 28, 2023, CliftonLarsonAllen completed its audit of the Company’s consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2022. Accordingly, as of February 28, 2023, CliftonLarsonAllen was no longer the Company’s independent registered public accountant. CliftonLarsonAllen’s audit reports on the Company’s consolidated financial statements as of and for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021 did not contain an adverse opinion or a disclaimer of opinion, and were not qualified or modified as to uncertainty, audit scope or accounting principles. During the fiscal years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, there were no: (1) disagreements with CliftonLarsonAllen on any matter of accounting principles or practices, financial statement disclosure, or auditing scope or procedures, which disagreements, if not resolved to their satisfaction, would have caused them to make reference in connection with their opinion to the subject matter of the disagreement, or (2) reportable events under Item 304(a)(1)(v) of Regulation S-K. As previously disclosed on January 17, 2023, the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors of Waterstone Financial, Inc. approved the appointment of FORVIS, LLP to serve as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm for the year ending December 31, 2023 after a competitive request for proposal process. The appointment of FORVIS, LLP was effective upon completion of the audit of the Company’s consolidated financial statements for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2022 by CliftonLarsonAllen, which occurred on February 28, 2023. Prior to retaining FORVIS, LLP, neither the Company nor anyone acting on its behalf consulted with FORVIS, LLP with respect to any of the matters or events set forth in Item 304(a)(2)(i) and (ii) of Regulation S-K. 13 As reflected in the tables below, Waterstone Financial incurred fees in fiscal years 2023 and 2022 for professional services provided by CliftonLarsonAllen LLP and RSM US LLP related to those periods. FORVIS, LLP Year Ended December 31, 2023 December 31, 2022 Audit fees(1)…………… Audit-related fees(2)…… _____________________ $ 356,499 $ 60,270 $ - $ - (1) Audit fees consist of professional services rendered for the audit of our consolidated financial statements and review of SEC Filings. Audit fees also include professional fees rendered for the audit of the stand–alone financial statements of Waterstone Mortgage Corporation. (2) Audit-related fees consisted of tax compliance fees. CliftonLarsonAllen LLP Year Ended December 31, 2023 December 31, 2022 Audit fees(1)…………. Audit-related fees(2)… _____________________ $ - $ 28,140 $ 309,254 $ 10,500 (1) Audit fees consist of professional services rendered for the audit of our consolidated financial statements and review of SEC Filings. Audit fees also include professional fees rendered for the audit of the stand–alone financial statements of Waterstone Mortgage Corporation. (2) Audit-related fees consisted of the transition and consent on Form S-8 in the 10-k. Policy on Audit Committee Pre-Approval of Audit and Non-Audit Services of the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm The Audit Committee’s policy is to pre-approve all audit and non-audit services provided by the independent registered public accounting firm. These services may include audit services, audit-related services, tax services and other services. Pre-approval is generally provided for up to one year and any pre-approval is detailed as to the particular service or category of services and is generally subject to a specific budget. The Audit Committee has delegated pre-approval authority to its Chairman when expedition of services is necessary. The independent registered public accounting firm and management are required to periodically report to the full Audit Committee regarding the extent of services provided by the independent registered public accounting firm in accordance with this pre-approval, and the fees for the services performed to date. All audit services for the past two fiscal years were pre-approved by the Audit Committee. COMPENSATION DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS Overview of Compensation Program Executive Summary. The Compensation Committee provides our Named Executive Officers with a total compensation package that is market competitive, promotes the achievement of our strategic objectives and is aligned with operating and other performance metrics to support long-term shareholder value. In addition, we have structured our executive compensation program to include elements that are intended to create appropriate balance between risk and reward. 14 Compensation Philosophy. The primary objectives of our executive compensation programs are to attract and retain highly-qualified executives and to encourage extraordinary management efforts through well-designed incentive opportunities, with the goal of improving the performance of Waterstone Financial, Inc. and its subsidiaries consistent with the interests of our shareholders. We base our compensation decisions on three basic principles: • • • Meeting the Demands of the Market – We compensate our employees at competitive levels that position us as the employer of choice among our peers who provide similar financial services in the markets we serve. Aligning with Shareholders – We use equity compensation as a key component of our compensation mix to promote a culture of ownership among our key personnel and to align their individual financial interests with the long-term interests of our shareholders. Driving Performance – We base compensation in part on the attainment of company-wide, business unit and individual performance targets that result in the achievement of both short-term and long- term financial objectives, while ensuring sound risk management. Elements of our Executive Compensation and Benefits Program. To achieve our objectives, we have structured an executive compensation program that provides our Named Executive Officers with the following: • • • • • • Competitive Base Salary; Short-Term Cash-Based Incentives; Equity Incentive Awards; Broad-Based Welfare and Retirement Benefit Plans; Perquisites; and Executive Agreements. The programs are intended to reward the accomplishment of strategic plan goals and objectives as evaluated by members of the Compensation Committee. They are further intended to reward enhanced shareholder value as measured by the trading price of our common stock. The elements of a Named Executive Officer’s total compensation package will vary depending upon the executive’s job position and responsibilities. Compensation Polices and Highlights Our compensation programs include, among others, the following best practices: What We Do ü The Compensation Committee has engaged an independent compensation consultant. ü The Compensation Committee is composed solely of independent directors. ü We maintain stock ownership guidelines for our executive officers. ü We maintain stock ownership guidelines for our non-employee directors. ü We maintain clawback policies for incentive compensation. ü We place restrictions on our directors and officers with respect to (i) holding Company securities in a margin account or otherwise pledging Company securities as collateral for a loan or (ii) engaging in hedging transactions in the Company’s securities. ü We provide a say-on-pay advisory vote on an annual basis until the next required vote on the frequency of shareholder votes on executive compensation. What We Do Not Do ´ We do not encourage excessive risk-taking behavior through our compensation plans. ´ We do not reprice underwater stock options. 15 ´ We do not grant options with an exercise price less than fair market value on date of grant. ´ We do not provide excessive prerequisites to our NEOs. ´ We do not provide excise tax gross ups in our compensation plans or employment agreements. ´ We do not guarantee salary increases. ´ We do not provide for uncapped bonuses. ´ We do not provide for “single-trigger” benefits upon a change in control. Shareholder Say-on-Pay Advisory Votes We provide our shareholders with the opportunity to cast an annual advisory vote on executive compensation (a “say-on-pay proposal”). At our 2023 annual meeting of shareholders, over 94% of the votes cast (excluding abstentions and broker non-votes) on the say-on-pay proposal at that meeting were voted in favor of the proposal. We have held annual say-on-pay votes since 2010, and we will continue to hold annual say-on-pay votes until the next shareholders vote regarding the frequency of say-on-pay votes, which we expect to occur at the 2026 annual meeting of shareholders. The Compensation Committee will continue to consider the outcome of our say-on-pay vote, regulatory changes and emerging best practices when making future compensation decisions for the Named Executive Officers. Named Executive Officer Compensation Process, Programs and Polices Role of the Compensation Committee. The Compensation Committee is responsible for reviewing all compensation components for the Named Executive Officers annually, including base salary, annual incentive, long- term incentives/equity, benefits and other perquisites. The Compensation Committee examines the total compensation mix, pay-for-performance relationship, and how all these elements in the aggregate comprise each executive’s total compensation package to ensure that our compensation is competitive in the marketplace and that the mix of benefits accurately reflects our compensation philosophy. The Compensation Committee operates under a written charter that establishes its responsibilities. The Compensation Committee and the board of directors review the charter annually to ensure that the scope of the charter is consistent with the role of the Compensation Committee. A copy of the charter can be found on our website on the “Investor Relations” link under the “About” tab, then “Corporate Overview” and “Governance Documents.” Role of Management. The executive officers who serve as a resource to the Compensation Committee are the Chief Executive Officer, with respect to compensation for the other Named Executive Officers, and the President, Chief Operating Officer and General Counsel and the Assistant Vice President and Director of Human Resources, with respect to compensation of other officers and employees of WaterStone Bank. The executives provide the Compensation Committee with data, analyses, input and recommendation. The Compensation Committee considers our Chief Executive Officer’s evaluation of each Named Executive Officer’s performance and recommendation of appropriate compensation. However, our Chief Executive Officer does not participate in any decisions relating to his own compensation. Role of Compensation Consultant. The Compensation Committee has the authority to engage compensation consultants from time to time to assist it in the compensation governance process for determining the compensation of our Named Executive Officers. Over the past three years, the Compensation Committee has utilized Meridian Compensation Partners, LLC, or Meridian, as its independent compensation consultant. Meridian is engaged directly by the Compensation Committee. Pursuant to its engagement, Meridian provides research, data analyses, survey information and design expertise in developing compensation programs for executives and incentive programs for eligible employees. In addition, Meridian keeps the Compensation Committee apprised of regulatory developments and market trends related to executive compensation practices. Meridian does not determine the exact amount or form of executive compensation for and of the Named Executive Officers. Benchmarking Compensation. The Compensation Committee assesses the components of executive compensation with advice from its independent compensation consultant. In prior years, Meridian has provided an analysis of base salary, annual incentive and long-term incentive practices of comparable companies in the financial 16 industry. Meridian considered individual compensation elements as well as the total compensation package. This analysis was considered by the Compensation Committee, and served as a basis, when it established 2023 compensation opportunities for executives. In conducting this analysis, the Compensation Committee reviewed market data using publicly disclosed compensation information from a peer group of comparable financial institutions ranging in asset size from $1.5 billion to $9.4 billion. In addition to asset size, peer group selection was also focused on banks with significant mortgage banking operations, a significant focus on real estate lending and/or banks that were recent mutual-to-stock conversions. For 2023, the Compensation Committee approved the following peer group for purposes of evaluating the appropriateness of the compensation package for the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Credit Officer, and Chief Retail Officer: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • BankFinancial Corporation, Burr Ridge, IL Cambridge Bancorp, Cambridge, MA Civista Bancshares, Inc., Sandusky, OH ESSA Bancorp, Inc., Stroudsburg, PA Farmers & Merchants Bancorp, Inc., Archbold, OH FS Bancorp, Inc., Mountlake Terrance, WA Greene County Bancorp, Inc., Catskill, NY HarborOne Bancorp, Inc., Brocton, MA Hingham Institution for Savings, Hingham, MA HomeStreet, Inc., Seattle, WA Independent Bank Corporation, Grand Rapids, MI Macatawa Bank Corporation, Holland, MI Metropolitan Bank Holding Corporation, New York, NY MVB Financial Corp., Fairmont, WV Northfield Bancorp, Inc., Woodbridge, NJ RBB Bancorp, Los Angeles, CA Sterling Bancorp, Inc., Southfield, MI Territorial Bancorp Inc., Honolulu, HI Stock Ownership Guidelines. To align the interests of the Named Executive Officers and non-employee directors with the interests of the Company’s shareholders, the Company maintains stock ownership guidelines, whereby Named Executive Officers are required to own shares of common stock equal to a specified multiple of their annual base salary and non-employee directors are required to own shares of common stock equal to a multiple of such director’s annual board cash retainer. The applicable levels are as follows: • Chief Executive Officer 3x base salary • Chief Financial Officer 2x base salary • Other NEOs 1x base salary • Directors 3x annual board cash retainer Named Executive Officers and non-employee directors have five years from the date that the individual first become subject to the guidelines to meet these ownership requirements. In calculating equity ownership for purposes of this requirement, we include all shares beneficially owned by an individual in the Company’s benefit plans (e.g. 401(k) and Employee Stock Ownership Plan), shares of restricted stock and shares with respect to which an individual has voting or investment power. For purposes of our stock ownership requirements, we do not include unexercised stock options, whether vested or non-vested. As of December 31, 2023, all directors were in compliance with the Company’s stock ownership guidelines. As of December 31, 2023, all Named Executive Officers that have been employed with the Company for at least five years were in compliance with the Company’s stock ownership guidelines. Clawback Policies. Our compensation program includes Clawback Policies. One of our policies provides that in the event that the Company is required to prepare an accounting restatement due to its material noncompliance with financial reporting requirements under U.S. securities laws, the Company shall, to the extent permitted by governing law, pursue reimbursement of any performance-based compensation paid to an executive officer, including 17 the Named Executive Officers, to the extent such payments and grants were made to the Named Executive Officer during the three-year period preceding the date on which the Company is required to prepare an accounting restatement based on the erroneous data, provided that the Compensation Committee or determine that the amount of any such performance-based compensation actually paid or awarded to the Named Executive Officer would have been a lower amount had it been calculated based on such restated financial statements. In addition, we have adopted a second clawback policy, whereby we are required to recover incentive-based compensation erroneously awarded to an executive officer during the three completed fiscal years preceding an accounting restatement, with the amount required to be recovered generally calculated as the difference between what was paid to the executive officer and what the executive officer would have received based on the restated amounts. Components of Executive Compensation Overview. Our compensation program consists of five main components: base salary, annual incentives, long-term incentive/equity, broad-based welfare and retirement benefit plans and perquisites. The following section summarizes the role of each component, how decisions are made and the resulting 2023 decision process as it relates to the Named Executive Officers. Base Salary. We provide a base salary for Named Executive Officers commensurate with the services provided to the Company. We believe that a portion of total direct compensation should be provided in a form that is fixed and liquid. In determining the base salary of executive officers for 2023, the Compensation Committee reviewed, among other things, third-party surveys of peer institutions, the historical compensation of those officers under review, any increased level of responsibility and performance measures of Waterstone Financial and its subsidiaries. Base salaries for Named Executive Officers other than the Chief Executive Officer are determined based upon recommendations made by the Chief Executive Officer. Base salary for the Chief Executive Officer is determined by the Compensation Committee. Name and Principal Position Douglas S. Gordon Former Chief Executive Officer of Waterstone Financial and WaterStone Bank (1) William F. Bruss President and Chief Executive Officer of Waterstone Financial and WaterStone Bank (1) Mark R. Gerke Chief Financial Officer of Waterstone Financial and WaterStone Bank Julie A. Glynn Chief Retail Officer of WaterStone Bank Ryan J. Gordon Chief Credit Officer of WaterStone Bank Jeffrey R. McGuiness Chief Executive Officer and President of Waterstone Mortgage Corporation 2023 ($) 875,000 2022 ($) 875,000 Change ($) - Change (%) - 387,500 376,000 11,500 265,500 257,500 8,000 244,000 236,900 7,100 3.0 3.1 3.0 233,500 226,600 6,900 3.0 450,000 425,000 25,000 5.9 (1) Douglas S. Gordon retired on January 5, 2024. William F. Bruss took over as Chief Executive Officer of Waterstone Financial and WaterStone Bank on January 5, 2024. Annual Incentive Plan. We maintain an Annual Incentive Plan which provides Named Executive Officers of WaterStone Bank with annual cash incentive opportunities for annual performance. The ability to earn any award is primarily contingent on the Company achieving consolidated financial-based metrics. These metrics are measured against actual results or actual results compared to our annual budget. The objective of our Annual Incentive Plan is to motivate and reward executives for achieving or exceeding annual financial, strategic and operational goals that we believe will help us maintain long-term profitable growth, maintain asset quality and support value creation for shareholders. The Chief Executive Officer of Waterstone Mortgage Corporation did not participate in the Annual 18 Incentive Plan during the year ended December 31, 2023. Mr. McGuiness participated in a cash-based annual incentive plan as set forth in his employment agreement. Incentive awards are calculated based upon the Company’s performance in one of three or four weighted financial-based measures along with a potential discretionary portion contingent upon achievement of strategic or operational non-financial objectives. With respect to the financial-based measures, performance was measured against the Board-approved 2023 budget. To receive any award under the Annual Incentive Plan, the Named Executive Officer must be actively employed on the day the award is made. Performance Measures In designing the Annual Incentive Program, the Compensation Committee emphasized the Company’s goals of maintaining profitability and enhancing our franchise value through growth of our commercial loan portfolio and core deposits. The Compensation Committee determined that to encourage these goals, the Annual Incentive Plan would include the following performance measures: Performance Measure Community Banking Segment Pre-Tax Income Mortgage Banking Segment Pre-Tax Income Evaluated Against Budget Focuses management on achieving budgeted pre-tax income. Rationale Budget Focuses management on achieving budgeted pre-tax income. Commercial Loan Growth Budget Core Deposit Growth Budget Focuses management on enhancing franchise value through growth of the Commercial Real Estate and Commercial and Industrial segments of the loan portfolio. Focuses management on less costly deposits and growth of business and retail checking and savings accounts, which will help to improve net interest margin. Individual Performance N/A Contingent on individual achievement of strategic or operational non-financial objectives. Target Annual Incentive Opportunities Target annual incentive awards are defined at the beginning of the year in consideration of market data, each NEOs total compensation package and the Company’s budgetary considerations. The following table sets forth information concerning Annual Incentive Plan opportunities for 2023: Name Douglas S. Gordon Threshold ($) 218,750 William F. Bruss Mark R. Gerke Julie A. Glynn Ryan J. Gordon 96,875 66,375 61,000 58,375 Target Amount ($) % of Annual Base Salary Maximum ($) 50.0% 40.0% 37.5% 37.5% 37.5% 656,250 213,125 132,750 122,000 116,750 437,500 155,000 99,563 91,500 87,563 19 Performance Measures Each NEO had pre-defined performance objectives based upon measurable performance of our Company. In addition, each NEO had the opportunity to earn incentive award based upon individual performance. The weights of the performance objectives for each NEO for 2023 are summarized in the following table: Name Douglas S. Gordon William F. Bruss Mark R. Gerke Julie A. Glynn Ryan J. Gordon Community Banking Pre- Tax Income Community Banking Pre- Tax Income 50% 50% 50% 50% 50% 10% 10% 10% - 10% Commercial Loan Growth 10% 10% 10% 10% 10% Core Deposit Growth Individual Performance 10% 10% 10% 20% 10% 20% 20% 20% 20% 20% The opportunity to earn incentive award based upon individual performance is rooted in each individual’s contribution to the achievement of a variety of tactical and strategic Company goals. While not limited to the following items, the Committee considers each individuals contribution relative to: • Maintaining strong asset quality • Maintaining strong expense management controls • Maintaining an effective system of internal controls over financial reporting • Staff attraction, retention and development • Achieving strong ratings from regulatory agencies Performance Results and Payouts The Committee determines the final amount of each participant’s award based upon the attainment of the applicable performance goals. Each element of the annual cash incentive award is independent of the other. Accordingly, the Named Executive Officer may achieve certain performance goals, and, at the same time, fail to achieve others. In that case, the Named Executive Officer would be entitled to receive the award for the performance goal achieved, but not an award for a performance goal for which the threshold performance was not achieved. 2023 performance goals and actual performance were as follows: 2023 Performance Measure Community Banking Segment Pre-Tax Income Mortgage Banking Segment Pre-Tax Income Commercial Loan Growth (in thousands) Core Deposit Growth (in thousands) Threshold $19,000 Target $24,400 Maximum $30,000 Actual $24,270 0 3,500 8,000 (13,238) 13,500 5,000 40,000 15,000 66,500 25,000 68,751 (100,435) Achievement as a % of Target 99.5% N/M 171.9% N/M 20 Based upon the above financial performance measures and the Compensation Committee’s discretion with respect to individual performance, the 2023 annual cash incentive payments were awarded as follows relative to the 2023 target value: Name Douglas S. Gordon William F. Bruss Mark R. Gerke Julie A. Glynn Ryan J. Gordon 2023 Annual Incentive Payment ($) 412,992 140,738 89,207 81,983 78,455 % of 2023 Target Annual Incentive 94.4% 90.8% 89.6% 89.6% 89.6% Annual Incentive Plan – Waterstone Mortgage Corporation. We maintain an Annual Incentive Plan which provides executive officers of Waterstone Mortgage Corporation with annual cash incentive opportunities for annual performance. The ability to earn any award is primarily contingent on the Company achieving financial-based metrics relative to the mortgage banking operation segment. These metrics are measured against actual results compared to our annual budget. The objective of our Annual Incentive Plan is to motivate and reward executives for achieving or exceeding annual financial, strategic and operational goals that we believe will help us maintain long-term profitable growth, maintain asset quality and support value creation for shareholders. Incentive awards are calculated based upon the Waterstone Mortgage Corporation’s performance relative to pre-tax income. Performance was measured against the Board-approved 2023 budget. To receive any award under the Annual Incentive Plan, the Named Executive Officer must be actively employed on the day the award is made. Performance Measure Actual pre-tax income relative to forecast Evaluated Against Budget Rationale Focuses management on achieving budgeted net income. Target Annual Incentive Opportunities Target annual incentive awards are defined at the beginning of the year in consideration of market data, Mr. McGuiness’ total compensation package and the Company’s budgetary considerations. The following table sets forth information concerning Annual Incentive Plan opportunities for 2023: Name Jeffrey R. McGuiness Threshold ($) 112,500 Amount ($) 225,000 % of Annual Base Salary 50% Maximum ($) 337,500 Target 21 Performance Results and Payouts The Compensation Committee determines the final amount of each participant’s award based upon the attainment of the applicable performance goal. The 2023 performance goals and actual performance were as follows (dollars in thousands): 2023 Performance Measure Waterstone Mortgage pre-tax income Threshold $2,508 Target $3,583 Maximum $4,656 Actual ($13,238) Achievement as a % of Target N/M As a result of Waterstone Mortgage Corporation’s performance relative to the target metric, Mr. McGuiness did not qualify for or receive the incentive payment for 2023. Equity-Based Compensation. The overall objective for our equity -based compensation is to provide an equitable and competitive means to reward our officers for their contributions to our long-range success. Our goal is to meet the following objectives: • Align the interests of our officers with the interests of shareholders by linking the long-term value of the compensation to shareholder returns. • Link each participant’s compensation to our long-term success through the appreciation of the stock price. • Retention through longer vesting schedules and enhanced shareholder value due to the value of grants being tied to the trading price of our common stock. All equity awards granted to the Named Executive Officers of Waterstone Financial are at the discretion of the Compensation Committee. The Compensation Committee considers the position of the Named Executive Officer, the officer’s level of influence and the corresponding ability to contribute toward the success of Waterstone Financial, and individual and corporate performance as well as the level of equity awards granted to individuals with similar positions at similar companies. In prior years, we have utilized restricted stock as our primary long-term incentive tool to retain and motivate our key employees. We believe this is the preferred practice to reward them for, and to motivate them toward, superior performance. In the event of an involuntary termination of employment following a change in control, the unvested equity incentive awards held by each recipient will vest automatically. Long-Term Performance-Based Equity Compensation Plan. The Company maintains a Long-Term Performance-Based Equity Compensation Plan, which provides Named Executive Officers with annual awards of restricted stock. In order to become vested in their restricted stock, our executive officers will need to be employed throughout a three-year performance period, which satisfies a retention goal, and the Company must meet certain pre- determined financial performance goals. The Compensation Committee believes it is important for the restricted stock, which is intended to be a long-term incentive, to focus our executive officers on, and reward them for, the achievement of multi-year performance objectives. The performance goals will be set at a target performance level. If the Company meets the target performance level, the executive officers would be vested in the number of shares designated as the “target award.” Performance levels would also be set at a maximum level to provide an incentive for superior performance, and at a threshold level, below which no shares would be earned. Depending on the Company’s performance relative to the performance goals, the executive officers could earn between 0% and 150% of the target award. 22 Performance Measures In designing the Long-Term Performance-Based Equity Plan, the Compensation Committee emphasized the Company’s goal of maintaining a high level of profitability as we strategically deploy our excess capital. The Compensation Committee determined that to encourage these goals, the Annual Incentive Plan would include the following performance measure: Performance Measure Return on Average Assets (Over three fiscal years) Evaluated Against Budget Rationale Focuses management on achieving a level of return that continues to exceed that of our peer group. Target Long-Term Performance-Based Equity Award Opportunity Target equity awards are defined at the beginning of the year in consideration of, market data, each NEOs total compensation package and the Company’s budgetary considerations. The following table sets forth information concerning Target Long-Term Performance-Based Equity Award opportunities for 2023: Name Douglas S. Gordon Threshold ($) 43,750 William F. Bruss Mark R. Gerke Julie A. Glynn Ryan J. Gordon 19,375 13,275 12,200 11,675 Target ($) % of Annual Base Salary 87,500 38,750 26,550 24,400 23,350 10% 10% 10% 10% 10% Maximum ($) 131,250 58,125 39,825 36,600 35,025 During 2023, our Compensation Committee awarded grants of 8,192 shares of performance-based restricted stock to Mr. D. Gordon, 3,628 shares to Mr. Bruss, 2,486 shares to Mr. Gerke, 2,284 shares to Ms. Glynn and 2,186 shares to Mr. R. Gordon. The number of shares granted is based upon the assumption of achievement at a “maximum” performance level. The actual number of shares that may ultimately vest for each NEO will be based upon achievement level relative to the Company’s return on average assets for the three-year performance period of 2023 to 2025. In addition, each NEO will need to be employed through the duration of that same three-year performance period. In the event of an involuntary termination of employment following a change in control, the unvested equity incentive awards held by each recipient will vest automatically. Performance Results and Payouts – 2021 Long-Term Performance-Based Equity Compensation Plan The Committee determines the final amount of each participant’s award based upon the attainment of the applicable performance goal. Actual performance was as follows: Performance Measure Consolidated Return on Average Assets for the fiscal years 2021, 2022 and 2023) Threshold 1.00% Target 1.35% Maximum 1.70% Actual 1.56% Achievement as a % of Target 115.6% 23 Based upon the above financial performance measure, shares awarded under the 2021 Long-Term Performance-based Equity Compensation Plan were as follows relative to the target shares: Name Shares at Target Shares Awarded Douglas S. Gordon William F. Bruss Mark R. Gerke Julie A. Glynn Ryan J. Gordon 4,096 1,759 1,205 1,108 1,060 5,332 2,289 1,568 1,443 1,380 Value of Shares Awarded (1) $64,784 27,811 19,051 17,532 16,767 ________________________________ (1) Based on the $12.15 per share closing price of our common stock on date of vest. Bonus. During 2023, the Compensation Committee awarded a cash bonus of $62,000 to Mr. D. Gordon. By awarding the cash bonus, it was the intent of the Compensation Committee to recognize the leadership and efforts of Mr. Gordon during his 18 years of service to the Company. Broad-Based Welfare and Retirement Benefit Plans. The purpose of welfare and retirement benefit plans are to ensure our compensation packages are competitive and to provide an opportunity for retirement savings. We maintain a number of broad-based welfare benefit plans that are available to our employees, including Named Executive Officers. We provide group medical, dental and vision insurance coverage plans to employees, with employees being responsible for a portion of the premiums. We also offer our employees, including Named Executive Officers, participation in tax-qualified defined contribution retirement plans. WaterStone Bank Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). The ESOP is a tax-qualified defined contribution retirement plan that benefits all eligible WaterStone Bank employees proportionately. The ESOP is not separately considered in the review and evaluation of annual executive compensation. ESOP allocations are made annually as of December 31 to all eligible WaterStone Bank employees. An employee must complete a full year of service and be employed by us on December 31 in order to receive an annual allocation each year. A trustee holds the shares purchased by the ESOP in an unallocated suspense account. Shares are released from the suspense account on a pro-rata basis as the ESOP repays the loan. The trustee allocates the shares released among participants on the basis of the participant’s proportional share of compensation relative to all participants. In the event of a plan termination, all allocated benefits become fully vested immediately, any outstanding loan will be repaid from shares in the unallocated suspense account and the amounts remaining in the suspense account will be allocated to participant accounts proportionally. Dividends paid with respect to shares of Waterstone Financial, Inc. stock in the unallocated suspense account may be used to repay the ESOP loan. To the extent the dividends exceeded the annual loan payment, the remaining dividend amount would cause additional shares to be allocated to participants or may be credited proportionately to participant accounts. WaterStone Bank 401(k) Plan. WaterStone Bank maintains the WaterStone Bank 401(k) Plan, a tax- qualified defined contribution retirement plan, for all WaterStone Bank employees, who have satisfied the 401(k) Plan’s eligibility requirements, including Named Executive Officers. All eligible employees can begin participation in the 401(k) Plan on the first day of the month that coincides with or follows the date the employee attains age 18. A participant may contribute up to 90% of his or her compensation to the 401(k) Plan on a pre-tax basis, subject to the limitations imposed by the Internal Revenue Code. A participant is 100% vested in his or her salary deferral contributions. In addition to salary deferral contributions, the 401(k) Plan provides that WaterStone Bank will make matching contributions on 20% of the first 5% of the participant’s compensation that is contributed to the 401(k) Plan. Waterstone Mortgage 401(k) Plan. Waterstone Mortgage Corporation maintains the Waterstone Mortgage 401(k) Plan, a tax-qualified defined contribution retirement plan, for all Waterstone Mortgage Corporation employees, including Named Executive Officers, who have satisfied the 401(k) Plan’s eligibility requirements. All eligible employees can begin participation in the 401(k) Plan on the first day of the month that coincides with or follows the 24 date the employee attains age 21 and completes 60 days of service. A participant may contribute up to 100% of his or her eligible compensation to the 401(k) Plan on a pre-tax basis, subject to the limitations imposed by the Internal Revenue Code. A participant is 100% vested in his or her salary deferral contributions. In addition to salary deferral contributions, the 401(k) Plan provides that Waterstone Mortgage Corporation will make matching contributions on 50% of the first 6% of the participant’s compensation that is contributed to the 401(k) Plan. Perquisites. Perquisites comprise a small portion of our total compensation package. The main perquisites we provide are use of a company-owned vehicle or an automobile allowance for selected officers. Although these perquisites may involve personal use, we believe that they are reasonable and consistent with the overall compensation program to assist with attracting and retaining executive officers. Executive Agreements. WaterStone Bank has entered into executive employment agreements with each of Messrs. D. Gordon and McGuiness. For descriptions of the executive employment agreements, see the “Employment Agreements” section following the “Summary Compensation Table.” Compensation Committee Report The Compensation Committee has reviewed and discussed the section of this Proxy Statement entitled “Compensation Discussion and Analysis” with management. Based on this review and discussion, the Compensation Committee recommended to the board of directors that the “Compensation Discussion and Analysis” be included in this Proxy Statement. Compensation Committee: Ellen S. Bartel Patrick S. Lawton (Chair) Stephen J. Schmidt Derek L. Tyus 25 PROPOSAL 3 – ADVISORY VOTE ON EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION The compensation of our principal executive officer, principal financial officer and the four other most highly compensated executive officers of the Company (“Named Executive Officers”) is described above in general and is shown in detail in the Executive Compensation and Compensation Discussion and Analysis sections. Shareholders are urged to read the Executive Compensation and Compensation Discussion and Analysis sections of this Proxy Statement, which discusses our compensation policies and procedures with respect to our Named Executive Officers. In accordance with Section 14A of the Exchange Act, shareholders will be asked at the Annual Meeting to provide their support with respect to the compensation of our Named Executive Officers by voting on the following advisory, non-binding resolution: RESOLVED, that the compensation paid to the “Named Executive Officers,” as disclosed in the Company’s Proxy Statement for the 2023 Annual Meeting of Shareholders pursuant to Item 402 Securities and Exchange Commission Regulation S-K, including the Compensation Discussion and Analysis, the 2023 compensation tables and narrative discussion is hereby approved. We will hold annual say-on-pay votes until the next shareholders vote regarding the frequency of say-on-pay votes, which we expect to occur at the 2026 annual meeting of shareholders. This advisory vote, commonly referred to as a “say-on-pay” advisory vote, is non-binding on the board of directors. Although non-binding, the board of directors and the Compensation Committee value constructive dialogue on executive compensation and other important governance topics with our shareholders and encourage all shareholders to vote their shares on this matter. The board of directors and the Compensation Committee will review the voting results and take them into consideration when making future decisions regarding our executive compensation. Unless otherwise instructed, validly executed proxies will be voted “FOR” this resolution. The board of directors unanimously recommends that you vote “FOR” the resolution set forth in Proposal 3. 26 EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION Summary Compensation Table. The following table shows the compensation of our Named Executive Officers, including Douglas S. Gordon, our principal executive officer, Mark R. Gerke, our principal financial officer, and the four other highest paid executive officers who received total compensation of more than $100,000 during the year ended December 31, 2023. The “Change in Pension Value and Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Earnings” and “Options Awards” columns have been omitted since a Named Executive Officer did not earn any compensation during the listed years of a type required to be disclosed in this column during the years listed. SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE Salary ($) 875,000 875,000 850,000 Bonus ($) 62,000 — — Stock Awards ($)(1) 131,236 131,250 127,509 Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation ($) 412,992 262,500 541,875 Name and Principal Position Douglas S. Gordon Chief Executive Officer of Waterstone Financial and WaterStone Bank William F. Bruss President, Chief Operating Officer and General Counsel of Waterstone Financial and WaterStone Bank Mark R. Gerke Chief Financial Officer of Waterstone Financial and WaterStone Bank Julie A. Glynn Senior Vice President and Director of Retail of WaterStone Bank Ryan J. Gordon Senior Vice President and Chief Credit Officer of WaterStone Bank Year 2023 2022 2021 2023 2022 2021 2023 2022 2021 2023 2022 2021 2023 2022 387,500 376,000 365,000 265,000 257,500 250,000 244,000 236,900 229,807 235,500 226,600 — 40,000 — — 30,000 — — 29,000 — — 28,000 58,121 56,405 54,759 39,826 38,627 37,495 36,590 35,537 34,507 35,020 33,983 All Other Compensation ($)(2) 75,049 72,839 77,971 68,232 74,315 78,055 63,067 70,443 75,689 58,030 66,847 72,907 62,711 74,068 11,214 10,250 14,308 Total ($) 1,556,285 1,341,589 1,597,355 654,591 629,440 652,939 457,100 448,070 469,434 420,603 403,819 410,821 409,686 407,971 461,214 435,250 849,317 140,738 82,720 155,125 89,207 51,500 106,250 81,983 35,535 73,600 78,455 45,320 — — 300,000 Jeffrey R. McGuiness President of Waterstone Mortgage Corporation 2023 2022 2021 450,000 425,000 400,000 — — — — — 135,009 ________________________________ (1) Reflects the aggregate grant-date fair value of the stock awards granted during the years shown as calculated in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board Accounting Standards Codification Topic 718. The assumptions used in the valuation of these awards are included in the "Stock Based Compensation" footnote to Waterstone Financial's audited financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021 included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. (2) A detailed breakdown of “All Other Compensation” for 2023 is provided in the table below. All Other Compensation Name and Principal Position 401(k) Match ($) Douglas S. Gordon William F. Bruss Mark R. Gerke Julie A. Glynn Ryan J. Gordon 2,860 2,379 3,597 5,399 3,079 Jeffrey R. McGuiness 11,214 Employee Stock Ownership Plan ($) Automobile Expense Allowance ($)(1) 48,096 48,096 48,096 44,098 6,497 10,203 6,200 3,771 44,660 — 10,418 — Divdends on Vested Restricted Shares ($) 17,596 7,554 5,174 4,762 4,554 — Total ($) 75,049 68,232 63,067 58,030 62,711 11,214 ________________________________ (1) In lieu of an automobile allowance, Mr. McGuiness received compensation for travel expenses to/from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. 27 Realized Compensation To supplement the SEC required disclosure in the above Summary Compensation Table, the following additional table has been included to show the total compensation realized by each Named Executive Officer in each of the years shown. The Summary Compensation Table, as calculated under the SEC rules, includes items that are impacted by accounting assumptions and also may include amounts that are not ultimately realized, and therefore that table may not necessarily be reflective of realized compensation in a particular year. Accordingly, the Company believes that this table is useful to shareholders. The table below shows compensation realized by each Named Executive Officer. For purposes of this presentation, realized compensation includes, base salary, performance-based cash bonus and all other compensation, all of which are included in the SEC required disclosure in the above Summary Compensation Table. To approximate an amount that represents realized compensation, the following table also includes an amount that represents the value realized upon the vesting of restricted stock awards and omits the grant date fair value of stock or option awards that have not vested. REALIZED COMPENSATION Name and Principal Position Douglas S. Gordon Chief Executive Officer of Waterstone Financial and WaterStone Bank William F. Bruss President and General Counsel of Waterstone Financial and WaterStone Bank Mark R. Gerke Chief Financial Officer of Waterstone Financial and WaterStone Bank Julie A. Glynn Senior Vice President and Director of Retail of WaterStone Bank Ryan J. Gordon Senior Vice President and Chief Credit Officer of WaterStone Bank Jeffrey R. McGuiness President of Waterstone Mortgage Corporation Year 2023 2022 2021 2023 2022 2021 2023 2022 2021 2023 2022 2021 2023 2022 2023 2022 2021 Salary ($) 875,000 875,000 850,000 Bonus ($) 62,008 — — 387,500 376,000 365,000 265,500 257,500 250,000 244,000 236,900 229,807 233,500 226,600 450,000 425,000 400,000 — 40,000 — — 30,000 — — 29,000 — — 28,000 — — — Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation ($) Value Realized on Stock Awards Vesting ($) 412,922 262,500 541,875 140,738 82,720 155,125 89,207 51,500 106,250 81,983 35,535 73,600 78,455 45,320 — — 300,000 64,784 — — 27,811 — — 19,051 — 17,532 — — 16,767 — — — — All Other Compensation ($) 75,049 72,839 77,971 Total ($) 1,489,763 1,210,339 1,469,846 68,232 74,315 78,055 63,067 70,443 75,689 58,030 66,847 72,907 62,711 74,068 11,214 10,250 14,308 624,281 573,035 598,180 436,825 409,443 431,939 401,545 368,282 376,314 391,433 373,988 461,214 435,250 714,308 CEO Pay Ratio Disclosure As required by applicable SEC rules, we are providing the following information about the relationship of the annual total compensation for our median employee to the annual total compensation of Mr. Gordon, our Chief Executive Officer during the fiscal year ending December 31, 2023. For 2023, our last completed year: • The annual total compensation of our median employee, other than our Chief Executive Officer, was $68,942; and • The annual total compensation of Mr. Gordon, our Chief Executive Officer, as reported in the Summary Compensation Table included elsewhere in this proxy statement was $1,556,285. 28 Based on this information, for 2023 the ratio of the annual total compensation of our Chief Executive Officer to the annual total compensation of our median employee was 22.6 to 1. We completed the following steps to identify the median employee: • As of December 31, 2023, our employee population consisted of approximately 698 employees, including any full- time, part-time, temporary, or seasonal employees employed on that date. • To find the median of the annual total compensation of our employees (other than our CEO), we used wages from our payroll records as reported to the Internal Revenue Service on Form W-2 for fiscal 2023. In making this determination, we annualized compensation for full-time and part-time permanent employees who were employed on December 31, 2023, but did not work for us the entire year. No full-time equivalent adjustments were made for part-time employees. • We identified our median employee using this compensation measure and methodology, which was consistently applied to all our employees included in the calculation. The required CEO pay ratio information reported above is a reasonable estimate calculated in a manner consistent with SEC rules based on the methodologies and assumptions described above. SEC rules for identifying the median employee and determining the CEO pay ratio permit companies to employ a wide range of methodologies, estimates and assumptions. As a result, the CEO pay ratios reported by other companies, which may have employed other permitted methodologies or assumptions and which may have a significantly different work force structure from the Company’s, is likely not comparable to the Company’s SEC-required CEO pay ratio. Pay Versus Performance Disclosure In accordance with rules adopted by the SEC pursuant to the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010, we provide the following disclosure regarding executive compensation for our principal executive officer ("PEO") and Non-PEO NEOs and Company performance for the fiscal years listed below. The Compensation Committee did not consider the pay versus performance disclosure below in making its pay decisions for any of the years shown. PEO Year Summary Compensation Table Total (1) Compensation Actually Paid (1,2,3) Average Non-PEO NEOs Summary Compensation Table Total (1) Compensation Actually Paid (1,2,3) Value of Initial Fixed $100 Investment (4) Peer TSR TSR ($) Net Income ($ Thousands) 2023 2022 2021 $ 1,556,285 1,341,589 1,597,355 $ 1,391,309 1,219,309 1,559,400 $ 480,739 464,910 595,628 $ 433,348 423,514 598,819 $ 90.72 111.95 132.89 $ 107.76 96.44 116.46 $ 9,375 19,487 70,791 Return on Average Assets (5) 0.44% 0.96% 3.20% 1. Douglas S. Gordon was our PEO for each year presented. The individuals comprising the Non-PEO named executive officers for each year presented are listed below. 2021 William F. Bruss Mark R. Gerke Julie A. Glynn Jeffrey R. McGuiness 2022 William F. Bruss Mark R. Gerke Ryan J. Gordon Julie A. Glynn Jeffrey R. McGuiness 2023 William F. Bruss Mark R. Gerke Ryan J. Gordon Julie A. Glynn Jeffrey R. McGuiness 2. The amounts shown for Compensation Actually Paid have been calculated in accordance with Item 402(v) of Regulation S-K and do not reflect compensation actually earned, realized, or received by the Company’s NEOs. These amounts reflect the Summary Compensation Table Total with certain adjustments as described in footnote 3 below. 3. Compensation Actually Paid reflects the exclusions and inclusions of certain amounts for the PEO and the Non-PEO NEOs as set forth below. Equity values are calculated in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718. 29 Amounts in the Exclusion of Stock Awards column are the totals from the Stock Awards column set forth in the Summary Compensation Table. Compensation for PEO Total compensation as reported in the Summary Compensation Table (SCT) Exclusion of change in in pension value Exclusion of stock awards granted during the year Pension value attributable to current year’s service and any change in pension value attributable to plan amendments made in the current year Fair value of equity compensation granted in current year that remained unvested as of the last day of the year—value at end of year-end Change in fair value for end of prior fiscal year to vesting date for awards made in prior fiscal years that vested during current fiscal year Change in fair value from end of prior fiscal year to end of current fiscal year for awards made in prior fiscal years that were unvested at end of current fiscal year Dividends or other earnings paid on stock or options awards in the covered fiscal year prior to the vesting date that are not otherwise included in the total compensation for the covered fiscal year Fair value of awards forfeited in current year determined at end of prior fiscal year Compensation Actually Paid to CEO Compensation for Non-PEO NEOs Total compensation as reported in the Summary Compensation Table (SCT) Exclusion of change in in pension value Exclusion of stock awards granted during the year Pension value attributable to current year’s service and any change in pension value attributable to plan amendments made in the current year Fair value of equity compensation granted in current year that remained unvested as of the last day of the year—value at end of year-end Change in fair value for end of prior fiscal year to vesting date for awards made in prior fiscal years that vested during current fiscal year Change in fair value from end of prior fiscal year to end of current fiscal year for awards made in prior fiscal years that were unvested at end of current fiscal year Dividends or other earnings paid on stock or options awards in the covered fiscal year prior to the vesting date that are not otherwise included in the total compensation for the covered fiscal year Fair value of awards forfeited in current year determined at end of prior fiscal year Compensation Actually Paid to Non-PEO NEOs 2023 2022 2021 $1,556,285 — (131,236) — $ 1,341,589 — (131,250) — 1,597,355 — (127,509) — — (33,740) — — — — — 8,970 — — 89,554 — — — — $1,391,309 $ 1,219,309 1,559,400 2023 2022 2021 $480,739 — (33,911) — $ 464,910 — (32,910) — $ 595,628 — (65,443) — — — 61,234 (9.144) (2,072) (4.336) (6,414) — — — — 3,420 3,980 — — $433,348 $ 423,514 598,819 4. The Peer Total Shareholder Return (“TSR”) set forth in this table represents the cumulative TSR of the S&P Composite 1500 Thrifts & Mortgage Finance Index, which we also utilize in the stock performance graph required by Item 201(e) of Regulation S-K included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023. The comparison assumes $100 was invested for the period starting December 31, 2020, through the end of the listed year in the Company and in the S&P Composite 1500 Thrifts & Mortgage Finance Index, respectively. All dollar values assume reinvestment of the pre-tax value of dividends paid by companies, where applicable, included in the peer group. 5. We determined Return on Average Assets to be the most important financial performance measure used to link Company performance to Compensation Actually Paid to our PEO and Non-PEO NEOs in 2023. This performance measure may not have been the most important financial performance measure for years 2022 and 2021 and we may determine a different financial performance measure to be the most important financial performance measure in future years. 30 Relationship Between Compensation Actually Paid and Certain Financial Performance Measures The following graph compares compensation actually paid (“CAP”) to our PEO and the average compensation actually paid to our other NEOs to (i) our cumulative total shareholder return (“TSR”), and (ii) S&P Composite 1500 Thrifts & Mortgage Finance Index for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023. The following graph compares compensation actually paid (“CAP”) to our PEO and the average compensation actually paid to our other NEOs to the Company’s net income for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023. 31 The following graph compares compensation actually paid (“CAP”) to our PEO and the average compensation actually paid to our other NEOs to the Company’s return on average assets for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023. Financial Performance Measures As described in greater detail in the “Compensation Discussion & Analysis,” our approach to executive compensation is designed to directly link pay to performance, recognize both corporate and individual performance, promote long- term stock ownership, attract, retain and motivate talented executives, and balance risk and reward while taking into consideration stakeholder feedback as well as market trends and practices. The most important financial measures used by the Company to link compensation actually paid (as defined by SEC rules) to the Company’s Named Executive Officers for the most recently completed fiscal year to the Company’s performance are: • Return on Average Assets; • Earnings Per Share; and • Total Shareholder Return. Analysis of the Information Presented in the Pay versus Performance Table While we utilize several performance measures to align executive compensation with performance, all of those measures are not presented in the Pay Versus Performance table. Moreover, the Company generally seeks to incentivize long-term performance, and therefore does not specifically align the company’s performance measures with compensation that is actually paid (as defined by SEC rules) for a particular year. In accordance with Item 402(v) of Regulation S-K, we are providing the following graphic descriptions of the relationships between compensation actually paid and cumulative total shareholder return, net income and return on average assets. 32 Employment Agreements Employment Agreement with Douglas S. Gordon. WaterStone Bank has entered into an employment agreement with Douglas S. Gordon, its Chief Executive Officer. Commencing on January 1, 2015 (the “Anniversary Date”) and continuing each January 1st thereafter, the term shall renew for an additional year such that the remaining term of this agreement is always three years, unless written notice of non-renewal is provided to Mr. Gordon at least 30 days prior to such Anniversary Date, in which case the term of this agreement shall become fixed and shall end two years following such Anniversary Date. Under the agreement, Mr. Gordon’s annual base salary for 2023 is $475,000. In addition, Mr. Gordon is entitled to participate in the employee benefit plans, arrangements and perquisites offered by WaterStone Bank and is entitled to participate in any incentive compensation or bonus plan or arrangement of WaterStone Bank or Waterstone Financial in which he is eligible to participate. The Bank will also pay or reimburse him for business expenses incurred, pay or reimburse him for annual country club dues and furnish him an automobile or reimburse him for the expense of leasing an automobile and for reasonable expenses associated with the use of such automobile. In the event of Mr. Gordon’s involuntary termination of employment for reasons other than cause, disability, death or retirement, or in the event Mr. Gordon resigns during the term of the agreement for “good reason” (as defined in the agreement), subject to his execution and non-revocation of a mutual release of claims, Mr. Gordon will receive a lump-sum severance payment equal to the sum of (i) his earned but unpaid salary as of the date of his termination of employment, (ii) the benefits he is entitled to as a former employee under the employee benefit plans maintained by WaterStone Bank or Waterstone Financial, (iii) the remaining base salary and bonuses Mr. Gordon would have earned if he had continued his employment for the remaining term of the Agreement and had earned a bonus and/or incentive award in each year in an amount equal to the average bonus and/or incentive award earned by him over the three calendar years preceding the year in which the termination occurs, (iv) the annual contributions or payments that would have been made on Mr. Gordon’s behalf to any employee benefit plans of WaterStone Bank or Waterstone Financial as if Mr. Gordon had continued his employment with WaterStone Bank for the remaining term of the agreement, and (v) the annual payments that would have been made related to membership in a country club and the use of an automobile for the remaining term of the Agreement. Upon the occurrence of an event of termination described above, Mr. Gordon will be entitled to continued life insurance coverage and non-taxable medical and dental insurance coverage for the remaining term of the agreement. Upon termination of Mr. Gordon’s employment by Waterstone Financial or WaterStone Bank for reasons other than cause following a change in control of Waterstone Financial or WaterStone Bank, or Mr. Gordon’s resignation due to good reason following a change in control, Mr. Gordon will receive a lump sum payment within 30 days after the date of termination substantially similar to the payment that he would receive on such a termination without regard to a change in control, except that such payments will be for a period of 36 months from date of termination. Mr. Gordon’s payment described in clause (iii), above, will be based on the highest annual bonus and/or incentive award earned by him in any of the three calendar years preceding the year in which the termination occurs. Also, the annual contributions or payments that would have been made on Mr. Gordon’s behalf to any employee benefit plans of the Bank or the Company as if Executive had continued his employment with the Bank for a period of 36 months following the Date of Termination, based on contributions or payments made (on an annualized basis) at the Date of Termination and the annual payments that would have been made on Mr. Gordon’s behalf if he had continued his employment with the Bank for a period of 36 months following the Date of Termination. Upon the occurrence of an event of termination described above, Mr. Gordon will be entitled to continued life insurance coverage and non-taxable medical and dental insurance coverage for a period of 36 months from the date of termination. In the event of Mr. Gordon’s disability and subsequent termination of employment, Mr. Gordon will receive the benefits provided under any disability program sponsored by Waterstone Financial or WaterStone Bank. To the extent such benefits are less than Mr. Gordon’s base salary at the date of termination, and less than 66 2/3% of Mr. Gordon’s base salary after the first year following termination, Mr. Gordon will be entitled to the difference between the disability benefits provided under any disability program sponsored by Waterstone Financial or WaterStone Bank and his base salary for a period of one year. After the first year following termination, Mr. Gordon will be entitled to the difference between the disability benefits provided under any disability program sponsored by Waterstone Financial or WaterStone Bank and 66 2/3% of Mr. Gordon’s base salary, through the earliest to occur of the date of Mr. Gordon’s death, recovery from disability or the date Mr. Gordon attains age 65. 33 In the event of Mr. Gordon’s death during the term of the agreement, Mr. Gordon’s beneficiary, legal representatives or estate will be paid Mr. Gordon’s base salary for one year and WaterStone Bank will continue to provide Mr. Gordon’s family the same medical, dental, and other health benefits that were provided by WaterStone Bank to Mr. Gordon’s family immediately prior the Mr. Gordon’s death, on the same terms, including cost, for one year. In the event of termination due to Mr. Gordon’s retirement, no amount or benefit will be due Mr. Gordon under the agreement. The employment agreement restricts Mr. Gordon from revealing confidential information of Waterstone Financial and WaterStone Bank. In addition, for one year following termination of employment (other than upon termination following a change in control), Mr. Gordon may not compete with Waterstone Financial and WaterStone Bank or solicit or hire WaterStone Bank’s employees. Employment Agreement with Jeffrey R. McGuiness. Effective as of November 16, 2020, Waterstone Mortgage Corporation entered into an employment agreement with its President and Chief Executive Officer, Jeffrey McGuiness. The agreement has an initial term continuing through December 31, 2023. Thereafter, the agreement shall renew for successive on year terms such that the remaining term of the agreement would always be one year unless written notice of non-renewal was provided by either party at least 90 days prior to such anniversary date. Under the agreement, Mr. McGuiness is entitled to a base salary in 2022 of $425,000 and participation in company- wide employee benefits, including Waterstone Mortgage Corporation’s 401(k) Plan. Mr. McGuiness is also entitled to annual cash-based performance bonus compensation beginning in 2021. Mr. McGuiness was granted shares of restricted stock in January 2021 with a value of $135,000 on the date of grant. The shares will vest on the third anniversary of the grant date. Mr. McGuiness was eligible for a cash-based sign-on bonus in the amount of $325,000, which was paid by the Company on the date of the Company’s first regularly scheduled payroll of 2021. The sign-on bonus will not be earned in full until December 31, 2023. Mr. McGuiness may terminate his employment for “good reason,” which includes any material breach of the agreement by Waterstone Mortgage Corporation, including the failure, without “good cause” (as defined in the agreement), to pay the amounts due under the agreement on a timely basis. In the event the agreement is terminated for good reason or in the event Waterstone Mortgage Corporation terminates Mr. McGuiness’s employment for any reason other than “good cause,” Mr. McGuiness will be entitled to receive his earned but unpaid base salary as of the date of his termination with the Company, the vested benefits, if any, to which he is entitled as a former employee under the employee benefit plans and a payment equal to one year’s base salary, subject to the terms of the agreement and shall accelerate or cause to be accelerated the vesting of the restricted stock award. In the event of Mr. McGuiness’s death during the term of the agreement, the agreement will terminate with no payment of severance compensation to Mr. McGuiness’s estate. Similarly, in the event of his termination by the Company for good cause, Mr. McGuiness will not be entitled to any severance compensation. In the event of Mr. McGuiness’s termination of employment, the agreement contains provisions which prevent him from soliciting business from customers of Waterstone Mortgage Corporation, withdrawing any customers’ business, hiring any employees, consultants or personnel of Waterstone Mortgage Corporation, disclosing confidential information with Waterstone Mortgage Corporation for two years following termination of employment. 34 Grants of Plan-Based Awards The following table sets forth for the year ended December 31, 2023 certain information as to grants of plan- based cash awards. GRANTS OF PLAN-BASED NON-EQUITY AWARDS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2023 Estimated Future Payments Under Non-Equity Incentive Plan Awards Name Douglas S. Gordon (1) William F. Bruss (1) Mark R. Gerke (1) Julie A. Glynn (1) Ryan J. Gordon (1) Jeffrey R. McGuiness (2) ____________________ (1) See “Compensation Discussion and Analysis – Annual Incentive Plan” for actual awards made under the 2023 Annual Incentive Plan. (2) See “Compensation Discussion and Analysis – Annual Incentive Plan – Waterstone Mortgage Corporation” for actual awards made 656,250 213,125 132,750 122,000 116,750 337,500 Threshold ($) 218,750 96,875 66,375 61,000 58,375 112,500 Grant Date 2/21/2023 2/21/2023 2/21/2023 2/21/2023 2/21/2023 — Target ($) 437,500 155,000 99,563 91,500 87,563 225,000 Maximum ($) under the 2023 Annual Incentive Plan. The following table sets forth for the year ended December 31, 2023 certain information as to grants of plan- based equity awards. GRANTS OF PLAN-BASED EQUITY AWARDS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2023 Estimated Future Payments Under Equity Incentive Plan Awards Name Douglas S. Gordon (1) William F. Bruss (1) Mark R. Gerke (1) Julie A. Glynn (1) Ryan J. Gordon (1) ____________________ Grant Date 2/21/2023 2/21/2023 2/21/2023 2/21/2023 2/21/2023 Threshold (#) 2,731 1,209 829 762 729 Target (#) 5,462 2,419 1,657 1,523 1,458 Maximum (#) 8,192 3,628 2,486 2,284 2,186 Grant Date Fair Value of Stock Awards ($) 131,236 58,121 39,826 36,590 35,020 (1) See “Compensation Discussion and Analysis – 2023 Long-Term Performance Based Equity Compensation Plan” for details regarding performance and time-based vesting requirements related to these awards. 35 Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year End. The following table sets forth information with respect to outstanding equity awards as of December 31, 2023. Grants were made under our 2015 and 2020 Equity Incentive Plans. OUTSTANDING EQUITY AWARDS AT DECEMBER 31, 2023 Option Awards Stock Awards Number of Number of Securities Securities Number of Market Value of Underlying Underlying Option Shares or Units Shares or Units Unexercised Unexercised Exercise Option of Stock That of Stock That Options (#) Options (#) Price Expiration Have Not Have Not Name Exercisable Unexercisable William F. Bruss Mark R. Gerke Julie A. Glynn Ryan J. Gordon Douglas S. Gordon — — — 5,000 10,000 20,000 — 10,000 — — — — — — — — — — — — — — ($) — — — 12.75 14.98 17.35 — Date — — — 3/4/2025 6/21/2026 3/20/2028 — 17.20 — 01/24/2028 — — — — — Vested (#) 2,639 (2) 2,903 (3) 3,628 (4) 1,807 (2) 1,988 (3) 2,486 (4) 1,663 (2) 1,829 (3) 2,284 (4) 1,590 (2) 1,749 (3) 2,186 (4) 6,145 (2) 6,755 (3) 8,192 (4) 7,132(5) Vested ($)(1) 37,474 41,223 51,518 25,659 28,230 35,301 23,615 25,972 32,433 22,578 24,836 31,041 87,259 95,921 116,326 101,274 — Jeffrey R. McGuiness ____________________ (1) Based on the $14.20 per share closing price of our common stock on December 31, 2023. (2) Consists of restricted shares awarded on March 16, 2021. The restricted shares vest on March 16, 2024. (3) Consists of restricted shares awarded on March 1, 2022. The restricted shares vest on March 3, 2025. (4) Consists of restricted shares awarded on February 21, 2023. The restricted shares vest on February 21, 2026. (5) Consists of restricted shares awarded on January 26, 2021. These restricted shares vested on January 26, 2024. — — — Option Exercises and Stock Vested. During the year ended December 31, 2023, there were no option exercises or stock vested for the Named Executive Officers. Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control The following table sets forth estimates of the amounts that would become payable to our Named Executive Officers, under employment agreements and/or equity award agreements in the event of their termination of employment on December 31, 2023, under designated circumstances. The table does not include vested or accrued benefits under any tax-qualified benefit plans that do not discriminate in scope, terms or operation in favor of executive officers or equity awards or other benefits in which the executive is vested without regard to the change in control. The estimates shown are highly dependent on a variety of factors, including but not limited to the date of termination, interest rates, federal, state, and local tax rates, and compensation history. Actual payments due could vary substantially from the estimates shown. We consider each termination scenario listed below to be exclusive of all other scenarios and do not expect that any of our executive officers would be eligible to collect the benefits shown under more than one termination scenario. If a Named Executive Officer is terminated for “cause” as defined in the applicable agreement or award, we have no contractual payment or other obligations under the agreement. 36 $ $ $ POTENTIAL PAYMENTS UPON TERMINATION OR CHANGE IN CONTROL Mr. D. Gordon Mr. Bruss Mr. Gerke Ms. Glynn Mr. R. Gordon Mr. McGuiness Discharge Without Cause or Resignation With Good Reason — no Change in Control Severance payment Medical, dental and life insurance benefits Acceleration of vesting of stock options Acceleration of vesting of restricted stock Total $ 2,676,484 (1) 39,603 (2) — — $ 2,716,087 — — — — _ — $ $ — — — — — $ $ — — — — — $ $ — — — — — $ 450,000 (1) — — 125,303 (6) 570,303 $ Discharge Without Cause or Resignation With Good Reason — Change in Control Related Severance payment (lump sum) Medical, dental and life insurance benefits Acceleration of vesting of stock options Acceleration of vesting of restricted stock Total Disability $ 6,206,223 (3) 59,405 (2) — 320,944 (4) 139,471 (4) $ 6,586,571 $ 139,471 — — — $ — — — 95,539 (4) 95,539 $ $ — — — 87,858 (4) 87,858 $ $ — — — 84,045 (4) 84,045 $ 450,000 (3) — — 123,740 (4) 573,740 $ $ $ $ $ $ Severance/disability payment Acceleration of vesting of stock option Acceleration of vesting of restricted stock Total $ $ — — 95,071 (6) 95,071 Death Salary continuation payment Medical, dental and life insurance benefits Acceleration of vesting of stock options Acceleration of vesting of restricted stock Total $ 875,000 (5) 19,802 (5) — 95,071 (6) $ 989,873 $ $ $ $ — — 40,817 (6) 40,871 $ — — 27,958 (6) 27,958 $ $ — — 25,729 (6) 25,729 $ — — — 40,817 (6) 40,817 $ — — — 27,958 (6) 27,958 $ $ — — — 25,729 (6) 25,729 $ — — 24,605 (6) 24,605 $ — — 123,740 (4) 123,740 $ — — — 24,605 (6) 24,605 $ — — — 123,740 (4) 123,740 $ _____________________________ (1) The cash severance payment under Mr. D. Gordon’s employment agreement equals (i) the remaining base salary and employee benefits to which he is entitled under his employment agreement over the remaining term of the agreement, assuming he had earned a bonus equal to the average bonus or incentive award earned over the three calendar years preceding the year of termination, as determined under the agreement; (ii) the annual contributions that would have been made on Mr. D. Gordon’s behalf under any employee benefit plans in which he participated; and (iii) the annual payments towards automobile lease and expenses that he would be entitled to for the remaining term of the agreement. Mr. D. Gordon retired effective as of January 5, 2024, and accordingly, these provisions of his employment agreement are no longer effective. The severance payment under Mr. McGuiness’s employment agreement is equal one times his base salary to which he is entitled under his employment agreement payable bi-weekly over a one year period. (2) Mr. D. Gordon will be entitled to non-taxable medical and dental coverage and life insurance coverage for the remaining term of the agreement, in the event of a termination without cause or for good reason not related to a change in control. In the event of an involuntary termination without cause or for good reason following a change in control, Mr. Gordon will be entitled to the continuation of the same benefits for a period of 36 months from the date of termination. (3) For Mr. D. Gordon, the cash severance benefit payable on an involuntary termination of employment or termination for good reason in connection with a change in control is the same as the payment in such a termination that occurs without regard to a change in control, except that such payments would be calculated utilizing the highest bonus or incentive award earned over the three calendar years preceding the year of termination and would be based on a 36-month term. For Mr. McGuiness, the severance payment under his employment agreement is equal to one year’s base salary to which he is entitled under his employment agreement over the remaining term of the agreement. (4) Value is based on the closing price of $14.20 on December 29, 2023 of Waterstone Financial common stock, including dividends declared to date with respect to those shares. (5) In the event of Mr. D. Gordon’s death, Mr. Gordon’s estate, legal representatives or named beneficiary or beneficiaries a base salary for the remaining year along with the same medical, dental, and other health benefits that that would have been made available to Mr. D. Gordon’s family. (6) Value is based on the closing price of $14.20 on December 29, 2023 of Waterstone Financial common stock, including dividends declared to date with respect to those shares. The number of shares assumed to have vested is based upon Company performance relative to target and/or months of service provided by the employee relative to the time-based vesting requirement. 37 Director Compensation Set forth below is summary compensation for each of our non-employee directors for the year ended December 31, 2023. Compensation includes an annual retainer as well as chairmanship and committee fees. DIRECTOR COMPENSATION TABLE FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2023 Director Name Ellen S. Bartel Nominating Committee Co-chairman Michael L. Hansen Audit Committee Chairman Patrick S. Lawton Chairman of the Board Kristine A. Rappé Executive Committee Chairman Stephen J. Schmidt Nominating Committee Co-chairman Derek Tyus Board Retainer and Meeting Fees earned or paid in cash ($) Board Committee Fees earned or paid in cash ($) 60,000 60,000 80,000 60,000 60,000 42,000 7,500 16,000 7,500 7,500 7,500 — Total ($) 67,500 76,000 87,500 67,500 67,500 42,000 As of December 31, 2023, Mr. Tyus had 3,864 unvested shares of restricted stock. Mr. Lawton had 37,500 vested but unexercised stock options. Ms. Rappé and Mr. Schmidt had 100,000 vested but unexercised stock options. Ms. Bartel had 25,000 vested but unexercised stock options. Mr. Hansen had 12,500 vested but unexercised stock options. DELINQUENT SECTION 16(a) REPORTS Under the federal securities laws, Waterstone Financial directors, its officers and any person holding more than 10% of the common stock are required to report their initial ownership of the common stock and any change in that ownership to the Securities and Exchange Commission. Specific due dates for these reports have been established and we are required to disclose in this Proxy Statement any failure to file such reports by these dates during the last year. We believe that all of our directors and executive officers complied with these filing requirements on a timely basis for the year ended December 31, 2023. COMPENSATION COMMITTEE INTERLOCKS AND INSIDER PARTICIPATION None of the members of the Compensation Committee was an officer or employee of Waterstone Financial, WaterStone Bank or any subsidiary, nor did any of them have any other reportable interlock. TRANSACTIONS WITH CERTAIN RELATED PERSONS WaterStone Bank has had, and expects to continue to have, regular business dealings with its officers and directors, as well as their associates and the firms which they serve. Our historical policy has been that transactions with our directors and executive officers be on terms that are no more beneficial to the director or executive officer than we would provide to unaffiliated third parties. Under our policies and procedures, all of our transactions with officers and directors require review, approval or ratification by the board of directors. Directors and executive officers, and their associates, regularly deposit funds with WaterStone Bank. The deposits are made on the same terms and conditions which are offered to other depositors. Except for loans to directors made in the ordinary course of business that were made on substantially the same terms, including interest rates and collateral, as those prevailing at the time for comparable loans with persons not related to WaterStone Bank and for which management believes neither involve more than the normal risk of collection nor present other unfavorable features, since January 1, 2023, the beginning of our last fiscal year, we and our subsidiaries have not had any transaction or series of transactions, or business relationships, nor are any such 38 transactions or relationships proposed, in which the amount involved exceeds $120,000 and in which our directors, executive officers or 5% or more shareholders have a direct or indirect material interest. HUMAN CAPITAL RESOURCES We believe in the value of teamwork and the power of diversity. We expect and encourage participation and collaboration, and understand that we need each other to be successful. We value accountability because it is essential to our success, and we accept our responsibility to hold ourselves accountable for meeting shareholder commitments and achieving high standards of performance. We encourage employees to contribute to their personal best while respecting the balance between work and personal life. To empower employees to reach their potential, we provide training and developmental programs, including traditional classroom training and coaching and experiential learning through initiatives beyond the scope of our employees’ everyday responsibilities. The Company’s compensation programs are designed to align the compensation of each employee with Company and individual performance and provide the proper incentives to attract, retain and motivate employees to achieve high standards of performance. Competitive Pay • • • • We provide employee wages that are competitive and consistent with employee positions, skill level, experience, knowledge and geographic location. We engage outside compensation and benefits consulting firms to provide benchmarking against our peers within the industry. Annual increases and incentive compensation are based upon merit, which is communicated to employees and documented through our talent management process as part of our annual review procedures. We align our employees interests and with that of shareholders through participation in our Employee Stock Ownership Plan, which is available to all Bank employees, upon reaching eligibility requirements. Benefits In addition to competitive pay, employees are offered a variety of competitive benefits including, but not limited to: • • • • • • Comprehensive medical, dental and vision programs. An employee assistance program, which offers ways to better balance work and personal commitments and reduce stress, including legal and financial services, child and elder care and nutrition and fitness. Training and development programs. Tuition reimbursement, which enables employees to further their formal education. Flexible and remote work options, which encourages employees to structure their schedules to best suit their personal situation. Short- and long-term disability salary continuation for medical disabilities. 39 SOCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENT Management and the Board of Directors of Waterstone Financial, Inc. recognize that environmental and social matters impact WaterSone Bank’s business, employees, customers, and stockholders. To that end, management continues to make a commitment to environmental and social initiatives. Social Commitment • WaterStone Bank employees volunteered over 600 hours for community organizations in 2023. • • Bank employees have leadership roles with over 40 community organizations. The WaterStone Bank Foundation awarded more than $725,000 in grants to more than 250 community organizations during 2023. Environmental Awareness We appreciate the communities we serve and share in the responsibility of minimizing environmental impacts that may be caused by the provision of our services. Our efforts in this regard include: • Employing a low carbon business model seeks to promote responsibility to all stakeholders. • Installing energy-efficient lighting and appliances in its premises. • Committing to a hybrid work environment, resulting in reduced fuel consumption. • Recycling paper, plastic, glass, and metal. • Committing to produce printed materials with recycled paper. • Committing to reduce consumption, including the utilization of electronic documents to reduce paper usage. • Adopting technology that can reduce our carbon footprint, such as providing direct and remote deposit capabilities and promoting e-statement enrollment to decrease paper and ink use. SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS AND NOTICES Shareholder proposals must be received by the Secretary of Waterstone Financial, William F. Bruss, no later than December 12, 2024 in order to be considered for inclusion in next year’s annual meeting proxy materials pursuant to Securities and Exchange Commission Rule 14a-8. Our Bylaws provide an advance notice procedure for certain business, or nominations to the board of directors, to be brought before an annual meeting of shareholders. In order for a stockholder to properly bring business before an annual meeting, or to propose a nominee to the board of directors, our Secretary must receive written notice not earlier than the 90th day nor later than the 80th day prior to date of the annual meeting; provided, however, that in the event that less than 90 days’ notice or prior public disclosure of the date of the annual meeting is provided to shareholders, then, to be timely, notice by the stockholder must be so received not later than the tenth day following the day on which public announcement of the date of such meeting is first made. The notice with respect to stockholder proposals that are not nominations for director must set forth as to each matter such stockholder proposes to bring before the annual meeting: (i) a brief description of the business desired to be brought before the annual meeting and the reasons for conducting such business at the annual meeting; (ii) the name and address of such stockholder as they appear on our books and of the beneficial owner, if any, on whose behalf the proposal is made; (iii) the class or series and number of shares of our capital stock which are owned beneficially or of record by such stockholder and such beneficial owner; (iv) a description of all arrangements or understandings between such stockholder and any other person or persons (including their names) in connection with the proposal of such business by such stockholder and any material interest of such stockholder in such business; and (v) a representation that such stockholder intends to appear in person or by proxy at the annual meeting to bring such business before the meeting. The notice with respect to director nominations must include (i) as to each individual whom the stockholder proposes to nominate for election as a director, (A) all information relating to such person that would indicate such person’s qualification under Article 2, Section 12 of our Bylaws, including an affidavit that such person would not be disqualified under the provisions of Article 2, Section 12 of the Bylaws and (B) all other information relating to such 40 individual that is required to be disclosed in connection with solicitations of proxies for election of directors, or is otherwise required, in each case pursuant to Regulation 14A under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or any successor rule or regulation; and (ii) as to the stockholder giving the notice, (A) the name and address of such stockholder as they appear on our books and of the beneficial owner, if any, on whose behalf the nomination is made; (B) the class or series and number of shares of our capital stock which are owned beneficially or of record by such stockholder and such beneficial owner; (C) a description of all arrangements or understandings between such stockholder and each proposed nominee and any other person or persons (including their names) pursuant to which the nomination(s) are to be made by such stockholder; (D) a representation that such stockholder intends to appear in person or by proxy at the meeting to nominate the persons named in its notice; and (E) any other information relating to such stockholder that would be required to be disclosed in a proxy statement or other filings required to be made in connection with solicitations of proxies for election of directors pursuant to Regulation 14A under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 or any successor rule or regulation. Such notice must be accompanied by a written consent of each proposed nominee to be named as a nominee and to serve as a director if elected. The date on which the next Annual Meeting of Shareholders is expected to be held is May 20, 2025. Assuming the next Annual Meeting of Shareholders is held on May 20, 2025, advance written notice for certain business, or nominations to the Board of Directors, to be brought before the next annual meeting must be given to us no earlier than February 19, 2025 and no later than March 1, 2025. If notice is received before February 19, 2025 or after March 1, 2025, it will be considered untimely, and we will not be required to present the matter at the shareholders meeting. In order to solicit proxies in support of director nominees other than the Company’s nominees for our 2025 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, a person must provide notice postmarked or transmitted electronically to our executive office, 11200 W. Plank Ct., Wauwatosa, Wisconsin 53226, www.wsbonline.com, no later than March 24, 2025. Any such notice and solicitation shall be subject to the requirements of the proxy rules adopted under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. By Order of the Board of Directors William F. Bruss Chief Executive Officer Wauwatosa, Wisconsin April 11, 2024 We will provide a copy of the Waterstone Financial Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission for the year ended December 31, 2023 (without exhibits) without charge to any record or beneficial owner of our common stock on the written request of that person directed to: Mark R. Gerke, Chief Financial Officer, Waterstone Financial, Inc., 11200 W. Plank Ct., Wauwatosa, WI 53226. The 10-K provides a list of exhibits, which will be provided for a reasonable fee to reflect duplication and mailing costs; exhibits are also available through the Securities and Exchange Commission’s website at www.sec.gov. 41      SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSIONWashington, D.C.   20549 F O R M   10-K ☒ ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023OR☐ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934Commission file number: 001-36271 WATERSTONE FINANCIAL, INC.(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) Maryland90-1026709(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)(I.R.S.  Employer Identification No.)  11200 W Plank Ct, Wauwatosa,  Wisconsin53226(Address of principal executive offices)(Zip Code) (414) 761-1000Registrant's telephone number, including area code: Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: Title of each class Trading Symbol Name of each exchange on which registeredCommon Stock, $0.01 Par Value WSBF  The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:NONE Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer (as defined in Rule 405 of the 1933 Act).    Yes     ☐            No     ☒ Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the 1934 Act.   Yes     ☐           No    ☒ Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (orfor such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.     Yes     ☒           No    ☐ Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during thepreceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files).       Yes     ☒           No    ☐ Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company.  Seedefinitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. Large accelerated filer☐Accelerated filer☒Non-accelerated filer☐Smaller Reporting Company☐Emerging growth company☐       If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accountingstandards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐ Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed a report on and attestation to its management’s assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting underSection 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the registered public accounting firm that prepared or issued its audit report. ☒ If securities are registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act, indicate by check mark whether the financial statements of the registrant included in the filing reflect the correction of anerror to previously issued financial statements.  ☐ Indicate by check mark whether any of those error corrections are restatements that required a recovery analysis of incentive-based compensation received by any of the registrant'sexecutive officers during the relevant recovery period pursuant to §240.10D-1(b).        Yes     ☐            No     ☒Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 under the Exchange Act).     Yes     ☐            No     ☒ The aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates of the Registrant, computed by reference to the price at which the common equity was lastsold on June 30, 2023 as reported by the NASDAQ Global Select Market®, was approximately $309.7 million. As of February 29, 2024, 20,052,831 shares of the Registrant’s Common Stock were issued and outstanding. DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE  Part of Form 10-K Into WhichDocument Portions of Document are IncorporatedProxy Statement for Annual Meeting of Part IIIShareholders on May 21, 2024       WATERSTONE FINANCIAL, INC. FORM 10-K ANNUAL REPORT TO THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSIONFOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2023 TABLE OF CONTENTS    ITEM  PAGE    PART I       1.Business 1-281A.Risk Factors 28-361B.Unresolved Staff Comments 361C.Cyber Security 372.Properties 383.Legal Proceedings 384.Mine Safety Disclosures 38    PART II       5.Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholders Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities 39-406.[Reserved] 407.Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 40-537A.Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk 548.Financial Statements and Supplementary Data 55-1079.Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure 1089A.Controls and Procedures 1089B.Other Information 1089C.Disclosure Regarding Foreign Jurisdictions that Prevent Inspections 108    PART III       10.Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance 10911.Executive Compensation 10912.Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters 10913.Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence 11014.Principal Accountant Fees and Services 110    PART IV       15.Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules 11016.Form 10-K Summary 110 Signatures 112     PART 1 Item 1.   Business Forward-Looking Statements This Annual Report on Form 10-K may contain or incorporate by reference various forward-looking statements, which can be identified by the use of wordssuch as “estimate,” “project,” “believe,” “intend,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “seek,” “expect” and similar expressions and verbs in the future tense. These forward-lookingstatements include, but are not limited to:  •Statements of our goals, intentions and expectations; •Statements regarding our business plans, prospects, growth and operating strategies; •Statements regarding the quality of our loan and investment portfolio; •Estimates of our risks and future costs and benefits. These forward-looking statements are based on current beliefs and expectations of our management and are inherently subject to significant business,economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond our control. In addition, these forward-looking statements are subject toassumptions with respect to future business strategies and decisions that are subject to change. The following factors, among others, could cause actual results to differ materially from the anticipated results or other expectations expressed in the forward-looking statements.  •general economic conditions, either nationally or in our market area, including employment prospects, that are different than expected; •competition among depository and other financial institutions, including with respect to overdraft fees; •inflation and changes in the interest rate environment that reduce our margins and yields, our mortgage banking revenues or reduce the fair value offinancial instruments or reduce the origination levels in our lending business, or increase the level of defaults, losses or prepayments on loans we havemade whether held in portfolio or sold in the secondary markets; •adverse changes in the securities or secondary mortgage markets; •changes in laws or government regulations or policies affecting financial institutions, including changes in regulatory fees and capital requirements; •changes in monetary or fiscal policies of the U.S. Government, including policies of the U.S. Treasury and the Federal Reserve Board; •our ability to manage market risk, credit risk and operational risk in the current economic conditions; •our ability to enter new markets successfully and capitalize on growth opportunities; •our ability to successfully integrate acquired entities; •decreased demand for our products and services; •changes in tax policies or assessment policies; •changes in consumer demand, spending, borrowing and savings habits; •changes in accounting policies and practices, as may be adopted by the bank regulatory agencies, the Financial Accounting Standards Board, theSecurities and Exchange Commission or the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board; •our ability to attract and retain key employees; •cyber attacks, computer viruses and other technological risks that may breach the security of our websites or other systems to obtain unauthorized accessto confidential information and destroy data or disable our systems; •technological changes that may be more difficult or expensive than expected; •the ability of third-party providers to perform their obligations to us; •the effects of federal government shutdown; •the effects of any national or international war, conflict, or act of terrorism; •the ability of the U.S. Government to manage federal debt limits or remain open; •significant increases in our loan losses;  •changes in the financial condition, results of operations or future prospects of issuers of securities that we own; •changes in our liquidity needs and access to wholesale funding; and •our ability to access low-cost funding. - 1 -    See also the factors regarding future operations discussed in "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and"Risk Factors" below. Waterstone Financial, Inc. Waterstone Financial, Inc., a Maryland corporation (“New Waterstone”), was organized in 2013.  Upon completion of the mutual-to-stock conversion ofLamplighter Financial, MHC in 2014, New Waterstone became the holding company of WaterStone Bank SSB and succeeded to all of the business and operations ofWaterstone Financial, Inc., a Federal corporation (“Waterstone-Federal”) and each of Waterstone-Federal and Lamplighter Financial, MHC ceased to exist.  In thisreport, we refer to WaterStone Bank SSB, our wholly owned subsidiary, both before and after the reorganization, as “WaterStone Bank” or the “Bank.” Waterstone Financial, Inc. and its subsidiaries, including WaterStone Bank, are referred to herein as the “Company,” “Waterstone Financial,” or “we.” The Company maintains a website at www.wsbonline.com. We make available through that website, free of charge, copies of our Annual Reports on Form 10-K,Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K, amendments to those reports and proxy materials as soon as is reasonably practical after the Companyelectronically files those materials with, or furnishes them to, the Securities and Exchange Commission. You may access those reports by following the links under“Investor Relations” at the Company’s website. Information on this website is not and should not be considered a part of this document. Waterstone Financial’s executive offices are located at 11200 West Plank Court, Wauwatosa, Wisconsin 53226, and its telephone number at this address is (414)761-1000. - 2 -  BUSINESS OF WATERSTONE BANK General WaterStone Bank is a community bank that has served the banking needs of its customers since 1921. WaterStone Bank also has an active mortgage bankingsubsidiary, Waterstone Mortgage Corporation, which had 72 offices in 26 states as of December 31, 2023. WaterStone Bank conducts its community banking business from 14 banking offices located in Milwaukee, Washington and Waukesha counties, Wisconsin.WaterStone Bank’s principal lending activity is originating one- to four-family, multi-family residential, and commercial real estate loans for retention in its portfolio. AtDecember 31, 2023, such loans comprised 33.12%, 42.53%, and 18.08%, respectively, of WaterStone Bank’s loan portfolio. WaterStone Bank also offers home equityloans and lines of credit, construction and land loans, commercial business loans, and consumer loans. WaterStone Bank funds its loan production primarily with retaildeposits and Federal Home Loan Bank advances. Our deposit offerings include certificates of deposit, money market savings accounts, transaction deposit accounts,noninterest bearing demand accounts and individual retirement accounts. Our investment securities portfolio is comprised principally of mortgage-backed securities,collateralized mortgage obligations, government-sponsored enterprise bonds, private-label enterprise bonds, municipal obligations, and other debt securities. WaterStone Bank is subject to comprehensive regulation and examination by the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (the "WDFI") and the FederalDeposit Insurance Corporation (the "FDIC"). WaterStone Bank’s executive offices are located at 11200 West Plank Court, Wauwatosa, Wisconsin 53226, and its telephone number is (414) 761-1000.  Itswebsite address is www.wsbonline.com. Information on this website is not and should not be considered a part of this document. WaterStone Bank’s mortgage banking operations are conducted through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Waterstone Mortgage Corporation.  WaterstoneMortgage Corporation originates single-family residential real estate loans for sale into the secondary market.  Waterstone Mortgage Corporation utilizes lines of creditprovided by WaterStone Bank as a primary source of funds, and also utilizes a line of credit with another financial institution as needed.  On a consolidated basis,Waterstone Mortgage Corporation originated $2.02 billion in mortgage loans held for sale during the year ended December 31, 2023, which excludes the loans originatedfrom Waterstone Mortgage Corporation and purchased by WaterStone Bank. Subsidiary Activities Waterstone Financial currently has one wholly-owned subsidiary, WaterStone Bank, which in turn has three wholly-owned subsidiaries. WauwatosaInvestments, Inc., which holds and manages our investment portfolio, is located and incorporated in Nevada. Waterstone Mortgage Corporation is a mortgage bankingbusiness incorporated in Wisconsin. Main Street Real Estate Holdings, LLC is a Wisconsin limited liability corporation and previously owned WaterStone Bank officefacilities and held WaterStone Bank office facility leases. Wauwatosa Investments, Inc.  Established in 1998, Wauwatosa Investments, Inc. operates in Nevada as WaterStone Bank’s investment subsidiary.  Thiswholly-owned subsidiary owns and manages the majority of the consolidated investment portfolio.  It has its own board of directors currently comprised of itsPresident, the WaterStone Bank Chief Financial Officer, Treasury Officer and the Chairman of Waterstone Financial’s board of directors. Waterstone Mortgage Corporation.  Acquired in 2006, Waterstone Mortgage Corporation is a mortgage banking business with offices in 26 states.  It has itsown board of directors currently comprised of its President, its Chief Financial Officer, its Chief Operating Officer, the WaterStone Bank Chief Executive Officer,President, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Credit Officer, and a member of the WaterStone Bank Board of Directors. Main Street Real Estate Holdings, LLC.  Established in 2002, Main Street Real Estate Holdings, LLC was established to acquire and hold WaterStone Bankoffice and retail facilities, both owned and leased.  Main Street Real Estate Holdings, LLC currently conducts real estate broker activities limited to real estate owned. Market Area WaterStone Bank.  WaterStone Bank’s market area is broadly defined as the Milwaukee, Wisconsin metropolitan market, which is geographically located in thesoutheast corner of the state.  WaterStone Bank’s primary market area is Milwaukee and Waukesha counties and the five surrounding counties of Ozaukee, Washington,Jefferson, Walworth and Racine. We have nine branch offices in Milwaukee County, four branch offices in Waukesha County and one branch office in WashingtonCounty.  At June 30, 2023 (the latest date for which information was publicly available), 43.8% of deposits in the State of Wisconsin were located in the seven-countyMilwaukee metropolitan market and 38.2% of deposits in the State of Wisconsin were located in the three counties in which the Bank has a branch office. WaterStone Bank’s primary market area for deposits includes the communities in which we maintain our banking office locations. Our primary lending marketarea is broader than our primary deposit market area and includes all of the primary market area noted above but extends further west to the Madison, Wisconsin marketand further north to the Appleton and Green Bay, Wisconsin markets. Waterstone Mortgage Corporation.  As of December 31, 2023, Waterstone Mortgage Corporation had 15 offices in Florida, nine offices in New Mexico, fouroffices in each of Arizona, Virginia, and Wisconsin, three offices in each of California, Maryland, New Hampshire, Oklahoma, and Texas, two offices in each of Delaware,Idaho, Kansas, Minnesota, and South Carolina, and one office in each of Colorado, Connecticut, Iowa, Illinois, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, NewJersey, Rhode Island, and Tennessee. - 3 -  Competition WaterStone Bank.  WaterStone Bank faces competition within our market area both in making real estate loans and attracting deposits. The Milwaukee-Waukesha metropolitan statistical area has a high concentration of financial institutions, including large commercial banks, community banks and credit unions. As ofJune 30, 2023, based on the FDIC annual Summary of Deposits Report, we had the 12th largest market share in our metropolitan statistical area out of 45 financialinstitutions, representing 1.6% of all deposits. Our competition for loans and deposits comes principally from commercial banks, savings institutions, mortgage banking firms and credit unions. We faceadditional competition for deposits from money market funds, brokerage firms, and mutual funds. Some of our competitors offer products and services that we do notoffer, such as trust services and private banking. Our primary focus is to build and develop profitable consumer and commercial customer relationships while maintaining our role as a community bank. Waterstone Mortgage Corporation.  Waterstone Mortgage Corporation faces competition for originating loans both directly within the markets in which itoperates and from entities that provide services throughout the United States through internet services.  Waterstone Mortgage Corporation’s competition comesprincipally from other mortgage banking firms, as well as from commercial banks, savings institutions and credit unions. Lending Activities The scope of the discussion included under “Lending Activities” is limited to lending operations related to loans originated for investment.  A discussion ofthe lending activities related to loans originated for sale is included under “Mortgage Banking Activity.” Historically, our principal lending activity has been originating mortgage loans for the purchase or refinancing of residential and commercial real estate.Generally, we retain the loans that we originate, which we refer to as loans originated for investment. One- to four-family residential mortgage loans represented $551.2million, or 33.1%, of our total loan portfolio at December 31, 2023.  Multi-family residential mortgage loans represented $707.6 million, or 42.5%, of our total loan portfolioat December 31, 2023.  Commercial real estate loans represented $300.9 million, or 18.1%, of our total loan portfolio at December 31, 2023. We also offer construction andland loans, home equity lines of credit and commercial loans.  At December 31, 2023, commercial business loans, home equity loans, and construction and land loanstotaled $37.1 million, $13.2 million and $53.4 million, respectively. The largest exposure to one borrower or group of related borrowers was $43.8 million in the multi-family category.  The borrower represented a total of 2.6% ofthe total loan portfolio as of December 31, 2023. Loan Portfolio Composition.  The following table sets forth the composition of our loan portfolio in dollar amounts and as a percentage of the total portfolioat the dates indicated.   At December 31,   2023  2022  2021   Amount  Percent  Amount  Percent  Amount  Percent   (Dollars in Thousands) Mortgage loans:                        Residential real estate:                        One- to four-family $551,190   33.12% $469,567   31.09% $300,523   24.92%Multi-family  707,566   42.53%  677,981   44.90%  537,956   44.62%Home equity  13,228   0.79%  11,455   0.76%  11,012   0.91%Construction and land  53,371   3.21%  62,494   4.14%  82,588   6.85%Commercial real estate  300,892   18.08%  262,973   17.41%  250,676   20.79%Commercial loans  37,120   2.23%  24,934   1.65%  22,298   1.85%Consumer  848   0.04%  774   0.05%  732   0.06%Total  1,664,215   100.00%  1,510,178   100.00%  1,205,785   100.00%                         Allowance for credit losses ("ACL") - loans(1)  (18,549)      (17,757)      (15,778)                             Loans, net $1,645,666      $1,492,421      $1,190,007      (1) The Company adopted ASU 2016-13 as of January 1, 2022. The 2021 amount presented is calculated under the prior accounting standard.  - 4 -  Loan Portfolio Maturities and Yields.  The following table summarizes the final maturities of our loan portfolio at December 31, 2023. Maturities are basedupon the final contractual payment dates and do not reflect the impact of prepayments and scheduled monthly payments that will occur.   One- to four-family  Multi family  Home Equity  Construction and Land       Weighted      Weighted      Weighted      Weighted Maturity period as of     Average      Average      Average      Average December 31, 2023 Amount  Rate  Amount  Rate  Amount  Rate  Amount  Rate   (Dollars in Thousands) One year or less $11,383   3.61% $10,656   5.83% $877   7.75% $868   7.26%More than one year through five years  55,451   5.42%  500,717   4.62%  5,981   8.06%  47,524   5.72%More than five years through 15 years  65,444   5.76%  194,779   5.56%  6,332   6.60%  4,979   4.52%More than 15 years  418,912   5.28%  1,414   6.01%  38   5.26%  -   - Total $551,190   5.32% $707,566   4.90% $13,228   7.33% $53,371   5.63%   Commercial Real Estate  Commercial Business  Consumer  Total       Weighted      Weighted      Weighted      Weighted Maturity period as of     Average      Average      Average      Average December 31, 2023 Amount  Rate  Amount  Rate  Amount  Rate  Amount  Rate   (Dollars in Thousands) One year or less $26,917   6.16% $4,843   8.82% $848   16.10% $56,392   6.00%More than one year through five years  230,922   5.12%  24,721   5.87%  -   0.00%  865,316   4.93%More than five years through 15 years  43,053   4.88%  7,556   5.96%  -   0.00%  322,143   5.53%More than 15 years  -   -   -   -   -   -   420,364   5.28%Total $300,892   5.18% $37,120   6.27% $848   16.10% $1,664,215   5.17% The following table sets forth the scheduled repayments of fixed and adjustable rate loans at December 31, 2023 that are contractually due after December 31,2024.   Due After December 31, 2024   Fixed  Adjustable  Total   (In Thousands) Mortgage loans:            Residential real estate:            One- to four-family $46,753  $493,054  $539,807 Multi-family  475,148   221,762   696,910 Home equity  1,881   10,470   12,351 Construction and land  37,529   14,974   52,503 Commercial real estate  225,954   48,021   273,975 Commercial loans  30,554   1,723   32,277 Consumer  -   -   - Total $817,819  $790,004  $1,607,823  One- to Four-Family Residential Mortgage Loans.  One- to four-family residential mortgage loans totaled $551.2 million, or 33.1% of total loans at December31, 2023.  Our one- to four-family residential mortgage loans have fixed or adjustable rates.  Our single family adjustable-rate mortgage loans generally provide formaximum annual rate adjustments of 200 basis points, with a lifetime maximum adjustment of 600 basis points.  Our adjustable-rate mortgage loans typically amortize overterms of up to 30 years, and are indexed to the 12-month SOFR rate.  Single family adjustable rate mortgage loans are originated at both our community banking segmentand our mortgage banking segment. We do not offer and have never offered residential mortgage loans specifically designed for borrowers with sub-prime credit scores,including Alt-A and negative amortization loans. Adjustable rate mortgage loans can decrease the interest rate risk associated with changes in market interest rates by periodically repricing, but involve otherrisks because, as interest rates increase, the loan payments by the borrower increase, thus increasing the potential for default by the borrower. At the same time, themarketability of the underlying collateral may be adversely affected by higher interest rates. Upward adjustment of the contractual interest rate is also limited by themaximum periodic and lifetime interest rate adjustments permitted by our loan documents and, therefore, the effectiveness of adjustable rate mortgage loans indecreasing the risk associated with changes in interest rates may be limited during periods of rapidly rising interest rates. Moreover, during periods of rapidly declininginterest rates the interest income received from the adjustable rate loans can be significantly reduced, thereby adversely affecting interest income. - 5 -  All residential mortgage loans that we originate include “due-on-sale” clauses, which give us the right to declare a loan immediately due and payable in theevent that, among other things, the borrower sells or otherwise transfers the real property subject to the mortgage and the loan is not repaid.  We also requirehomeowner’s insurance and where circumstances warrant, flood insurance, on properties securing real estate loans.  The average one- to four-family first mortgage loanbalance was approximately $300,000 on December 31, 2023, and the largest outstanding balance on that date was $5.8 million, which is a consolidation loan that iscollateralized by 80 single family properties.  A total of 31.5% of our one- to four-family loans are collateralized by properties in the state of Wisconsin. Multi-family Real Estate Loans.  Multi-family loans totaled $707.6 million, or 42.5% of total loans at December 31, 2023. These loans are generally secured byproperties located in our primary market area. Our multi-family real estate underwriting policies generally provide that such real estate loans may be made in amounts ofup to 80% of the appraised value of the property provided the loan complies with our current loans-to-one borrower limit. Multi-family real estate loans are offered withinterest rates that are fixed for periods of up to five years or are variable and either adjust based on a market index or at our discretion. Contractual maturities do notexceed 10 years while principal and interest payments are typically based on a 30-year amortization period. In reaching a decision whether to make a multi-family realestate loan, we consider gross revenues and the net operating income of the property, the borrower’s expertise and credit history, global cash flows, and the appraisedvalue of the underlying property. We will also consider the terms and conditions of the leases and the credit quality of the tenants. We generally require that theproperties securing these real estate loans have debt service coverage ratios (the ratio of earnings before interest, income taxes, depreciation and amortization dividedby interest expense and current maturities of long term debt) of at least 1.15 times. Generally, multi-family loans made to corporations, partnerships and other businessentities require personal guarantees from the principals and by the owners of 20% or more of the borrower. A multi-family borrower’s financial information is monitored on an ongoing basis by requiring periodic financial statement updates, payment history reviewsand periodic face-to-face meetings with the borrower.  We generally require borrowers with aggregate outstanding balances exceeding $1.0 million to provide updatedfinancial statements and federal tax returns annually.  These requirements also apply to most guarantors on these loans.  We also require borrowers with rentalinvestment property to provide an annual report of income and expenses for the property, including a tenant list and copies of leases, as applicable.  The averageoutstanding multi-family mortgage loan balance was approximately $1.5 million on December 31, 2023, with the largest outstanding balance at $16.7 million. Loans secured by multi-family real estate generally involve larger principal amounts than owner-occupied, one- to four-family residential mortgage loans.Because payments on loans secured by multi-family properties often depend on the successful operation or management of the properties, repayment of such loans maybe affected by adverse conditions in the real estate market or the economy. Home Equity Loans and Lines of Credit. We also offer home equity loans and home equity lines of credit, both of which are secured by owner-occupied andnon-owner occupied one- to four-family residences.  At December 31, 2023, outstanding home equity loans and equity lines of credit totaled $13.2 million, or 0.8% oftotal loans outstanding.  At December 31, 2023, the unadvanced portion of home equity lines of credit totaled $11.7 million.  The underwriting standards utilized for homeequity loans and home equity lines of credit include a determination of the applicant’s credit history, an assessment of the applicant’s ability to meet existing obligationsand payments on the proposed loan, and the value of the collateral securing the loan.  Home equity loans are offered with adjustable rates of interest and with terms upto seven years.  The loan-to-value ratio for our home equity loans and our lines of credit is generally limited to 90% when combined with the first security lien, ifapplicable.  Our home equity lines of credit have ten-year terms and adjustable rates of interest, subject to a contractual floor, which are indexed to the prime rate, asreported in The Wall Street Journal.  Interest rates on home equity lines of credit are generally limited to a maximum rate of 18%.  The average outstanding home equityloan balance was approximately $52,000 at December 31, 2023, with the largest outstanding balance at that date of $498,000. Construction and Land Loans.  We originate construction loans for the acquisition of land and the construction of single-family residences, multi-familyresidences, and commercial real estate buildings.  At December 31, 2023, construction and land loans totaled $53.4 million, or 3.2% of total loans.   A total of $76.7 millionhad yet to be advanced as of December 31, 2023. Our construction mortgage loans generally provide for the payment of interest only during the construction phase, which is typically up to nine months forsingle-family residences although our policy is to consider construction periods as long as three years for multi-family residences and commercial buildings. At the endof the construction phase, the construction loan converts to a longer-term mortgage loan upon stabilization. Construction loans can be made with a maximum loan-to-value ratio of 90%, provided that the borrower obtains private mortgage insurance if the owner-occupied residential loan balance exceeds 80% of the lesser of theappraised value or acquisition cost of the secured property. The average outstanding construction loan balance totaled approximately $2.8 million on December 31, 2023,with the largest outstanding balance at $10.9 million.  The average outstanding land loan balance was approximately $303,000 on December 31, 2023, and the largestoutstanding balance on that date was $1.1 million. Before making a commitment to fund a construction loan, we require an appraisal of the property by an independent licensed appraiser. We also review andinspect each property before disbursement of funds during the term of the construction loan. Loan proceeds are disbursed after inspection based on either thepercentage of completion method or the actual cost of the completed work. Construction financing is generally considered to involve a higher degree of credit risk than longer-term financing on improved, owner-occupied real estate.Risk of loss on a construction loan depends largely upon the accuracy of the initial estimate of the value of the property at completion of construction compared to theestimated cost (including interest) of construction and other assumptions. If the estimate of construction cost is inaccurate, we may be required to advance fundsbeyond the amount originally committed in order to protect the value of the property. Additionally, if the estimate of value is inaccurate, we may be confronted with aproject, when completed, with a value that is insufficient to ensure full repayment of the loan. - 6 -  Commercial Real Estate Loans.  Commercial real estate loans totaled $300.9 million at December 31, 2023, or 18.1% of total loans, and are made up of loanssecured by office and retail buildings, industrial buildings, churches, restaurants, other retail properties and mixed use properties. These loans are generally secured byproperty located in our primary market area. Our commercial real estate underwriting policies provide that such real estate loans may be made in amounts of up to 80% ofthe appraised value of the property. Commercial real estate loans are offered with interest rates that are fixed up to five years or are variable and either adjust based on amarket index or at our discretion. Contractual maturities do not exceed 10 years while principal and interest payments are typically based on a 20 to 25-year amortizationperiod. In reaching a decision whether to make a commercial real estate loan, we consider gross revenues and the net operating income of the property, the borrower’sexpertise and credit history, business and global cash flow, and the appraised value of the underlying property. In addition, we will also consider the terms andconditions of the leases and the credit quality of the tenants, if applicable. We generally require that the properties securing these real estate loans have debt servicecoverage ratios (the ratio of earnings before interest, income taxes, depreciation and amortization divided by interest expense and current maturities of long term debt) ofat least 1.15 times. Environmental surveys are required for commercial real estate loans when environmental risks are identified. Generally, commercial real estate loansmade to corporations, partnerships and other business entities require personal guarantees by the principals and by the owners of 20% or more of the borrower. A commercial real estate borrower’s financial information is monitored on an ongoing basis by requiring periodic financial statement updates, payment historyreviews and periodic face-to-face meetings with the borrower.  We generally require borrowers with aggregate outstanding balances exceeding $1.0 million to provideannual updated financial statements and federal tax returns.  These requirements also apply to all guarantors on these loans.  We also require borrowers to provide anannual report of income and expenses for the property, including a tenant list and copies of leases, as applicable.  The average commercial real estate loan in ourportfolio at December 31, 2023 was approximately $1.1 million, and the largest outstanding balance at that date was $16.7 million. Commercial Loans.  Commercial loans totaled $37.1 million at December 31, 2023, or 2.2% of total loans, and are made up of loans secured by accountsreceivable, inventory, equipment and real estate. Our commercial loans are generally made to borrowers that are located in our primary market area.  Working capital lines of credit are granted for the purpose ofcarrying inventory and accounts receivable or purchasing equipment.  These lines require that certain collateral levels must be maintained and are monitored on amonthly or quarterly basis.  Working capital lines of credit are short-term loans of 12 months or less with variable interest rates.  At December 31, 2023, the unadvancedportion of working capital lines of credit totaled $15.4 million.  Outstanding balances fluctuate up to the maximum commitment amount based on fluctuations in thebalance of the underlying collateral.  Personal property loans secured by equipment are considered commercial business loans and are generally made for terms of up to84 months and for up to 80% of the value of the underlying collateral.  Interest rates on equipment loans may be either fixed or variable.  Commercial business loans aregenerally variable rate loans with initial fixed rate periods of up to five years. A commercial business borrower’s financial information is monitored on an ongoing basis by requiring periodic financial statement updates, usually quarterly,payment history reviews and periodic face-to-face meetings with the borrower. The average outstanding commercial loan at December 31, 2023 was $502,000 and thelargest outstanding balance on that date was $7.9 million. Origination and Servicing of Loans.  All loans originated for investment are underwritten pursuant to internally developed policies and procedures.  While wegenerally underwrite owner-occupied residential mortgage loans to Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae standards, due to several unique characteristics, our loans originatedprior to 2008 do not conform to the secondary market standards.  The unique features of these loans include interest payments in advance of the month in which theyare earned and discretionary rate adjustments that are not tied to an independent index. Exclusive of our mortgage banking operations, we retain in our portfolio all of the loans that we originate. At December 31, 2023, WaterStone Bank was notservicing any loan it originated and subsequently sold to unrelated third parties. Loan servicing includes collecting and remitting loan payments, accounting forprincipal and interest, contacting delinquent mortgagors, supervising foreclosures and property dispositions in the event of unremedied defaults, making certaininsurance and tax payments on behalf of the borrowers and generally administering the loans. - 7 -  Loan Approval Procedures and Authority.  WaterStone Bank’s lending activities follow written, non-discriminatory, underwriting standards and loanorigination procedures established by WaterStone Bank’s board of directors. The loan approval process is intended to assess the borrower’s ability to repay the loan,the viability of the loan and the adequacy of the value of the property that will secure the loan, if applicable. To assess the borrower’s ability to repay, we review theemployment and credit history and information on the historical and projected income and expenses of borrowers. Loan officers, with concurrence from independentcredit officers and underwriters, are authorized to approve and close any loan that qualifies under WaterStone Bank underwriting guidelines within the following lendinglimits:  ●Any secured mortgage loan up to $500,000 for a borrower with total outstanding loans from us of less than $1.0 million that is independently underwritten canbe approved by the Chief Credit Officer or select lending personnel.  ●Any secured mortgage loan up to $1.0 million can be approved by the Chief Executive Officer.  ●Any secured mortgage loan ranging from $500,001 to $3.0 million or any new loan to a borrower with outstanding loans from us exceeding $1.0 million must beapproved by the Officer Loan Committee.  ●Any non-real estate loan up to $250,000 for a borrower with total outstanding loans from us of less than $250,000 that is independently underwritten can beapproved by select lending personnel.  ●Any non-real estate loan up to $500,000 for a borrower with total outstanding loans from us of less than $500,000 that is independently underwritten can beapproved by the Chief Executive Officer or Business Banking Manager.  ●Any non-real estate loan ranging from $500,001 to $3.0 million or any new non-real estate loan to a borrower with outstanding loans exceeding $500,000 must beapproved by the Officer Loan Committee.  ●Any new loan over $3.0 million must be approved by the Officer Loan Committee and the board of directors prior to closing. Any new loan to a borrower withoutstanding loans from us exceeding $10.0 million must be reviewed by the board of directors. Asset Quality When a loan becomes more than 30 days delinquent, WaterStone Bank sends a letter advising the borrower of the delinquency.  The borrower is given aspecific date by which delinquent payments must be made or by which they must contact WaterStone Bank to make arrangements to bring the loan current over a longerperiod of time.  If the borrower fails to bring the loan current within the specified time period or to make arrangements to cure the delinquency over a longer period oftime, the matter is referred to legal counsel and foreclosure or other collection proceedings are considered. All loans are reviewed on a regular basis for payment performance, and loans are placed on non-accrual status when they become 90 or more days delinquent.When loans are placed on non-accrual status, unpaid accrued interest is reversed, and further income is recognized only to the extent received when collection of theremaining principal balance is reasonably assured. Non-Performing Assets.  Non-performing assets consist of non-accrual loans and other real estate owned.  Loans are generally placed on non-accrual statuswhen contractually past due 90 days or more as to interest or principal payments.  Additionally, whenever management becomes aware of facts or circumstances thatmay adversely impact the collectability of principal or interest on loans, management may place such loans on non-accrual status immediately, rather than waiting untilthe loan becomes 90 days past due. At the time a loan is placed on non-accrual status, previously accrued and uncollected interest on such loans is reversed andadditional income is recorded only to the extent that payments are received and the collection of principal is reasonably assured.  Generally, loans are restored to accrualstatus when the obligation is brought current, has performed in accordance with the contractual terms for a reasonable period of time, and the ultimate collectability ofthe total contractual principal and interest is no longer in doubt. - 8 -  The table below sets forth the amounts and categories of our non-accrual loans and real estate owned at the dates indicated.   At December 31,   2023  2022  2021   (Dollars in Thousands) Non-accrual loans:            Residential            One- to four-family $4,503  $4,209  $5,420 Multi family  -   -   128 Home equity  90   98   26 Construction and land  -   -   - Commercial real estate  215   -   - Commercial  -   -   - Consumer  -   -   - Total non-accrual loans  4,808   4,307   5,574              Real estate owned            One- to four-family  109   -   - Multi family  -   -   - Construction and land  145   145   148 Commercial real estate  -   -   - Total real estate owned  254   145   148 Total nonperforming assets $5,062  $4,452  $5,722              Total non-accrual loans to total loans, net  0.29%  0.29%  0.46%Total non-accrual loans to total assets  0.22%  0.21%  0.25%Total nonperforming assets to total assets  0.23%  0.22%  0.26% All loans that meet or exceed 90 days with respect to past due principal and interest are recognized as non-accrual. Financing receivables whose borrowers areexperiencing financial difficulty which are still on non-accrual status either due to being past due 90 days or greater, or which have not yet performed under the modifiedterms for a reasonable period of time, are included in the table above. In addition, loans which are past due less than 90 days are evaluated to determine the likelihood ofcollectability given other credit risk factors such as early stage delinquency, the nature of the collateral or the results of a borrower fiscal review. When the collection ofall contractual principal and interest is determined to be unlikely, the loan is moved to non-accrual status and an updated appraisal of the underlying collateral isordered. This process generally takes place between 60 and 90 days past contractual due dates. Upon determining the updated estimated value of the collateral, a loanloss provision is recorded to establish a specific reserve to the extent that the outstanding principal balance exceeds the updated estimated net realizable value of thecollateral, which includes estimated costs of selling. When a loan is determined to be uncollectible, generally coinciding with the initiation of foreclosure action, thespecific reserve is reviewed for adequacy, adjusted if necessary, and charged-off. The following table sets forth activity in our non-accrual loans for the years indicated.   At and for the Year Ended December 31,   2023  2022  2021   (Dollars in Thousands)              Balance at beginning of period $4,307  $5,574  $5,560 Additions  3,209   3,306   3,374 Transfers to real estate owned  (226)  -   - Charge-offs  -   -   (12)Returned to accrual status  (854)  (1,394)  (1,792)Principal paydowns and other  (1,628)  (3,179)  (1,556)Balance at end of period $4,808  $4,307  $5,574  - 9 -  Total non-accrual loans increased by $501,000 to $4.8 million as of December 31, 2023 compared to $4.3 million as of December 31, 2022. The ratio of non-accrualloans to total loans receivable was 0.29% at December 31, 2023 compared to 0.29% at December 31, 2022.  During the year ended December 31, 2023, $226,000 of loanswere transferred to real estate owned, no loans were charged off, $1.6 million in principal payments were received and $854,000 in loans were returned to accrual status.Offsetting this activity, $3.2 million in loans were placed on non-accrual status during the year ended December 31, 2023. Of the $4.8 million in total non-accrual loans as of December 31, 2023, $2.5 million in loans have been specifically reviewed to assess whether a specificvaluation allowance is necessary.  A specific valuation allowance is established for an amount equal to the impairment when the carrying value of the loan exceeds thepresent value of expected future cash flows, discounted at the loan’s original effective interest rate or the fair value of the underlying collateral with an adjustment madefor costs to dispose of the asset.  Based upon these specific reviews, no charge-offs have been recorded over the life of these loans as of December 31, 2023. Partiallycharged-off loans measured for impairment based upon net realizable collateral value are maintained in a “non-performing” status. There were no specific reserves, as ofDecember 31, 2023.  The remaining $2.3 million of non-accrual loans were reviewed on an aggregate basis as of December 31, 2023.   The outstanding principal balance of our five largest non-accrual loans as of December 31, 2023 totaled $2.4 million, which represents 49.6% of total non-accrual loans as of that date.  These five loans did not have any charge-offs or require any specific valuation allowances as of December 31, 2023. Interest payments received are treated as interest income on a cash basis as long as the remaining book value of the loan (i.e., after charge-off of all identifiedlosses) is deemed to be fully collectible. If the remaining book value is not deemed to be fully collectible, all payments received are applied to unpaid principal.Determination as to the ultimate collectability of the remaining book value is supported by an updated credit department evaluation of the borrower's financial conditionand prospects for repayment, including consideration of the borrower's sustained historical repayment performance and other relevant factors. There were no accruing loans past due 90 days or more during the years ended December 31, 2023 or  December 31, 2022.  Financial receivables whose borrowers are experiencing financial difficulty.  The following table summarizes financial receivables whose borrowers areexperiencing financial difficulty by the Company’s internal risk rating.   December 31,   2023  2022  2021   (Dollars in Thousands) Financing receivables whose borrowers are experiencing financial difficulty            Substandard $543  $936  $3,989 Watch  -   -   - Total financing receivables whose borrowers are experiencing financial difficulty $543  $936  $3,989  Financial receivables whose borrowers are experiencing financial difficulty totaled $543,000 at December 31, 2023, compared to $936,000 at December 31, 2022.At December 31, 2023, all of the financial receivables whose borrowers are experiencing financial difficulty were performing in accordance with their restructured terms.All financial receivables whose borrowers are experiencing financial difficulty are considered to be impaired and are risk rated as either substandard or watch and areincluded in the internal risk rating tables disclosed in the notes to the consolidated financial statements. Specific reserves have been established to the extent that thecollateral-based impairment analyses indicate that a collateral shortfall exists or to the extent that a discounted cash flow analysis results in an impairment. Our financial receivables whose borrowers are experiencing financial difficulty are short-term modifications.  Typical initial restructured terms include six totwelve months of principal forbearance, a reduction in interest rate or both.  Restructured terms do not include a reduction of the outstanding principal balance unlessmandated by a bankruptcy court. Finance terms may be renewed or further modified at the end of the initial term for an additional period if performance has beenacceptable and the short-term borrower difficulty persists. - 10 -  Information with respect to the accrual status of our Financial receivables whose borrowers are experiencing financial difficulty is provided in the followingtable.   At December 31,   2023  2022   Accruing  Non-accruing  Accruing  Non-accruing   (In Thousands)                  One- to four-family $-  $543  $-  $936   $-  $543  $-  $936  Interest payments received on non-accrual financing receivables whose borrowers are experiencing financial difficulty are treated as interest income on a cashbasis as long as the remaining book value of the loan (i.e., after charge-off of all identified losses) is deemed to be fully collectible. If the remaining book value is notdeemed to be fully collectible, all payments received are applied to unpaid principal. Determination as to the ultimate collectability of the remaining book value issupported by an updated credit department evaluation of the borrower's financial condition and prospects for repayment, including consideration of the borrower'ssustained historical repayment performance and other relevant factors. If a restructured loan is current in all respects and a minimum of six consecutive restructured payments have been received, it can be considered for return toaccrual status.  After a restructured loan that is current in all respects reverts to contractual/market terms and if a credit department review indicates no evidence ofelevated market risk, the loan is removed from the financing receivables whose borrowers are experiencing financial difficulty classification. The restructured loan will beclassified as a financial receivables whose borrowers are experiencing financial difficulty for at least the calendar year after the modification even after returning to acontractual/market rate and accrual status. Loan Delinquency.  The following table summarizes loan delinquency in total dollars and as a percentage of the total loan portfolio:   At December 31,   2023  2022   (Dollars in Thousands)          Loans past due less than 90 days $6,817  $2,578 Loans past due 90 days or more  4,433   3,683 Total loans past due $11,250  $6,261          Total loans past due to total loans receivable  0.68%  0.41% Past due loans increased by $5.0 million, or 79.7%, to $11.3 million at December 31, 2023 from $6.3 million at December 31, 2022.  Loans past due less than 90days increased by $4.2 million during the year ended December 31, 2023.  The increase was primarily due to an increase in delinquent one- to four-family loans during theyear ended December 31, 2023. Loans past due 90 days or more increased $750,000. The increase in loans past due 90 days or more was primarily due to an increase inone-to four-family loans receivable during the year ended December 31, 2023. - 11 -  Potential Problem Loans.  We define potential problem loans as substandard loans which are still accruing interest.  We do not necessarily expect to realizelosses on potential problem loans, but we recognize potential problem loans carry a higher probability of default and require additional attention by management.  Theaggregate principal amounts of potential problem loans as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 were $6.8 million and $5.5 million, respectively.  Management believes it hasestablished an adequate allowance for probable loan losses as appropriate under generally accepted accounting principles. Real Estate Owned.  Total real estate owned was $254,000 at December 31, 2023, and $145,000 at December 31, 2022.  During the year ended December 31,2023 and December 31, 2022, there was no significant activity. New appraisals received on real estate owned and collateral dependent impaired loans are based upon an "as is value" assumption.  During the period of timein which we are awaiting receipt of an updated appraisal, loans evaluated for impairment based upon collateral value are measured by the following:  ●Applying an updated adjustment factor to an existing appraisal;  ●Confirming that the physical condition of the real estate has not significantly changed since the last valuation date;  ●Comparing the estimated current value of the collateral to that of updated sales values experienced on similar collateral;  ●Comparing the estimated current value of the collateral to that of updated values seen on current appraisals of similar collateral; and  ●Comparing the estimated current value to that of updated listed sales prices on our real estate owned and that of similar properties (not owned by theCompany). We owned three properties at December 31, 2023 and one property at December 31, 2022.  Habitable real estate owned is managed with the intent of attracting alessee to generate revenue. Foreclosed properties are transferred to real estate owned at estimated net realizable value (which includes costs to sell the property), withcharge-offs, if any, charged to the allowance for loan losses upon transfer to real estate owned.  The fair value is primarily based upon updated appraisals in addition toan analysis of current real estate market conditions.   - 12 -  Allowance for Credit Losses The following table sets forth activity in our allowance for credit losses - loans for the years indicated.   At or for the Year Ended December 31,   2023  2022  2021   (Dollars in Thousands)              Balance at beginning of period $17,757  $15,778  $18,823 Adoption of CECL (1)  -   430   - Provision (credit) for credit losses - loans  927   1,030   (3,990)Charge-offs:            Mortgage            One- to four-family  168   304   151 Multi family  -   -   - Home Equity  -   -   - Commercial real estate  -   -   13 Construction and land  -   -   10 Consumer  37   16   18 Commercial  -   -   - Total charge-offs  205   320   192 Recoveries:            Mortgage            One- to four-family  52   78   949 Multi family  8   727   116 Home Equity  4   18   16 Commercial real estate  3   3   52 Construction and land  3   13   4 Consumer  -   -   - Commercial  -   -   - Total recoveries  70   839   1,137 Net charge-offs (recoveries)  135   (519)  (945)Allowance at end of period $18,549  $17,757  $15,778              Ratios:            Allowance for credit losses to non-accrual loans at end of period (1)  385.79%  412.28%  283.06%Allowance for credit losses to loans receivable at end of period (1)  1.11%  1.18%  1.31%Net charge-offs (recoveries) to average loans:            Mortgage            One- to four-family  0.02%  0.06%  (0.05%)Multi family  (0.00%)  (0.12%)  (0.01%)Home Equity  (0.03%)  (0.16%)  (0.03%)Construction and land  (0.01%)  0.00%  (0.01%)Commercial real estate  0.00%  (0.01%)  0.00%Consumer  4.56%  2.12%  0.61%Commercial  0.00%  0.00%  0.00%Net charge-offs (recoveries) to average loans outstanding  0.01%  (0.04%)  (0.07%) (1) The Company adopted ASU 2016-13 as of January 1, 2022. The prior year amounts presented are calculated under the prior accounting standard.  The allowance for credit losses - loans increased $792,000  to $18.5 million at December 31, 2023 from $17.8 million at December 31, 2022. During the year endedDecember 31, 2023, there was a $927,000 provision for credit losses. Additionally, net charge-offs totaled $135,000 for the year ended December 31, 2023.   We had net charge-offs of $135,000, or 0.01% of average loans annualized, for the year ended December 31, 2023, compared to net recoveries of $519,000 or 0.04% ofaverage loans annualized, for the year ended December 31, 2022. Of the $135,000 in net charge-offs during the year ended December 31, 2023, the majority of theactivity related to loans secured by one-to four-family loan categories. Our underwriting policies and procedures emphasize that credit decisions must rely on both the credit quality of the borrower and the estimated value of theunderlying collateral.  Credit quality is assured only when the estimated value of the collateral is objectively determined and is not subject to significant fluctuation. The allowance for credit losses - loans has been determined in accordance with GAAP. We are responsible for the timely and periodic determination of the amount ofthe allowance required. Any future provisions for loan losses will continue to be based upon our assessment of the overall loan portfolio and the underlying collateral,trends in non-performing loans, current economic conditions and other relevant factors. - 13 -  Allocation of Allowance for Credit Losses - Loans.  The following table sets forth the allowance for credit losses allocated by loan category, the total loanbalances by category, and the percent of loans in each category to total loans at the dates indicated. The allowance for credit losses allocated to each category is notnecessarily indicative of future losses in any particular category and does not restrict the use of the allowance to absorb losses in other categories.   At December 31,   2023  2022  2021   Allowancefor CreditLosses -Loans (1)  % of Loansin Categoryto TotalLoans  % ofAllowancein Categoryto TotalAllowance  Allowancefor LoanLosses -Loans (1)  % of Loansin Categoryto TotalLoans  % ofAllowanceinCategory toTotalAllowance  Allowancefor LoanLosses -Loans (1)  % of LoansinCategory toTotal Loans  % ofAllowanceinCategory toTotalAllowance   (Dollars in Thousands) Real estate:                                    Residential                                    One- to four-family $6,886   33.12%  37.12% $4,743   31.09%  26.71% $3,963   24.92%  25.12%Multi family  7,318   42.53%  39.45%  7,975   44.90%  44.91%  5,398   44.62%  34.21%Home equity  211   0.79%  1.14%  174   0.76%  0.98%  89   0.91%  0.56%Construction and land  983   3.21%  5.30%  1,352   4.14%  7.61%  1,386   6.85%  8.78%Commercial real estate  2,561   18.08%  13.81%  3,199   17.41%  18.02%  4,482   20.79%  28.41%Commercial  534   2.23%  2.88%  267   1.65%  1.50%  427   1.85%  2.71%Consumer  56   0.04%  0.30%  47   0.05%  0.26%  33   0.06%  0.21%Total allowance for credit losses -loans (1) $18,549   100.00%  100.00% $17,757   100.00%  100.00% $15,778   100.00%  100.00% (1) The Company adopted ASU 2016-13 as of January 1, 2022. 2021 amounts presented are calculated under the prior accounting standard.  Our underwriting policies and procedures emphasize that credit decisions must rely on both the credit quality of the borrower and the estimated value of theunderlying collateral.  Credit quality is assured only when the estimated value of the collateral is objectively determined and is not subject to significant fluctuation.  - 14 -  The establishment of the amount of the credit loss allowance inherently involves judgments by management as to the appropriateness of the allowance, whichultimately may or may not be correct. Higher than anticipated rates of loan default would likely result in a need to increase provisions in future years. At December 31, 2023, the allowance for credit losses - loans was $18.5 million, compared to $17.8 million at December 31, 2022.  As of December 31, 2023, theallowance for credit losses to total loans receivable was 1.11% and 385.79% of non-performing loans, compared to 1.18%, and 412.28%, respectively at December 31,2022.  The increase in the allowance for credit losses during the year ended December 31, 2023 reflects the increased size of our loan portfolio and certain qualitativefactors. The overall increase was related primarily to the one- to four-family category. See Note 3 of the notes to the consolidated financial statements for furtherdiscussion on the allowance for credit losses - loans. Mortgage Banking Activity In addition to the lending activities previously discussed, we also originate single-family residential mortgage loans for sale in the secondary market throughWaterstone Mortgage Corporation.  Waterstone Mortgage Corporation originated, including loans sold to WaterStone Bank, $2.12 billion in mortgage loans held for saleduring the year ended December 31, 2023, which was a volume decrease of $641.8 million, or 23.2%, from the $2.76 billion originated during the year ended December 31,2022.  The decrease in loan production volume was driven by a $424.9 million, or 17.3%, decrease in purchase products due to an increase in mortgage rates year-over-year and the decline in affordable housing inventories. Mortgage refinance products decreased $216.8 million, or 71.8% as interest rates remained high. Total mortgagebanking income decreased $25.6 million, or 24.6%, to $78.5 million during the year ended December 31, 2023 compared to $104.1 million during the year ended December31, 2022. The decrease in mortgage banking noninterest income was related to a 23.2% decrease in volume and an 2.6% decrease in gross margin on loans originated andsold for the year ended December 31, 2023 compared to December 31, 2022.  Gross margin on those loans originated and sold is the ratio of mortgage banking income(excluding the change in interest rate lock fair value) divided by total loan originations.  We sell loans on both a servicing-released and a servicing retained basis.Waterstone Mortgage Corporation has contracted with a third party to service the loans for which we retain servicing. Our gross margin can be affected by the mix of both loan type (conventional loans versus governmental) and loan purpose (purchase versus refinance). Conventional loans include loans that conform to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac standards, whereas governmental loans are those loans guaranteed by the federalgovernment, such as a Federal Housing Authority or U.S. Department of Agriculture loan.  Loans originated for the purchase of a residential property, which generallyyield a higher margin than loans originated for refinancing existing loans, comprised 96.0% of total originations during the year ended December 31, 2023, compared to89.1% of total originations during the year ended December 31, 2022.  The mix of loan type trended towards more governmental loans and less conventional loanscomprising 41.0% and 59.0% of all loan originations, respectively, during the year ended December 31, 2023, compared to 29.3% and 70.7% of all loan originations,respectively, during the year ended December 31, 2022. Investment Activities Wauwatosa Investments, Inc. is WaterStone Bank’s investment subsidiary headquartered in the State of Nevada.  Wauwatosa Investments, Inc. manages theback office function for WaterStone Bank’s investment portfolio. Our Chief Financial Officer and Treasury Officer are responsible for executing purchases and sales inaccordance with our investment policy and monitoring the investment activities of Wauwatosa Investments, Inc. The investment policy is reviewed annually bymanagement and changes to the policy are recommended to and subject to the approval of WaterStone Bank's board of directors. Authority to make investments underthe approved investment policy guidelines is delegated by the board to designated employees. While general investment strategies are developed and authorized bymanagement, the execution of specific actions rests with the Chief Financial Officer and Treasury Officer who may act jointly in performing security trades. The ChiefFinancial Officer and Treasury Officer are responsible for ensuring that the guidelines and requirements included in the investment policy are followed and that allsecurities are considered prudent for investment. The Chief Financial Officer and the Treasury Officer are authorized to execute investment transactions (purchases andsales) without the prior approval of the board provided they are within the scope of the established investment policy. Our investment policy requires that all securities transactions be conducted in a safe and sound manner. Investment decisions are based upon a thoroughanalysis of each security instrument to determine its quality, inherent risks, fit within our overall asset/liability management objectives, effect on our risk-based capitalmeasurement and prospects for yield and/or appreciation. Consistent with our overall business and asset/liability management strategy, which focuses on sustaining adequate levels of core earnings, our investmentportfolio is comprised primarily of securities that are classified as available for sale.  During the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021, no investment securitieswere sold. - 15 -  Available for Sale Portfolio Mortgage-backed Securities and Collateralized Mortgage Obligations.  We purchase mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage obligationsguaranteed by Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and Ginnie Mae.  We invest in mortgage-backed securities, collateralized mortgage obligations, and private-label mortgage-backed securities to achieve positive interest rate spreads with minimal administrative expense, and to lower our credit risk.  We regularly monitor the credit quality ofthis portfolio. Mortgage-backed securities, collateralized mortgage obligations, and private-label mortgage-backed securities are created by the pooling of mortgages and theissuance of a security.  These securities typically represent a participation interest in a pool of single-family or multi-family mortgages, although we focus ourinvestments on mortgage related securities backed by one- to four-family mortgages.  The issuers of such securities pool and resell the participation interests in the formof securities to investors such as WaterStone Bank, and in the case of government agency sponsored issues, guarantee the payment of principal and interest toinvestors.  Mortgage-backed securities, collateralized mortgage obligations, and private-label mortgage-backed securities generally yield less than the loans thatunderlie such securities because of the cost of payment guarantees, if any, and credit enhancements.  These fixed-rate securities are usually more liquid than individualmortgage loans. At December 31, 2023, mortgage-backed securities totaled $11.2 million. The mortgage-backed securities portfolio had a weighted average yield of 2.51% and aweighted average remaining life of 10.0 years at December 31, 2023. The estimated fair value of our mortgage-backed securities portfolio at December 31, 2023 was$1.5 million less than the amortized cost of $12.7 million. Mortgage-backed securities valued at $183,000 were pledged as collateral for mortgage banking activities as ofDecember 31, 2023. Mortgage-backed securities valued at $10.6 million were pledged as collateral for advances from the Federal Reserve Bank as of December 31, 2023.Investments in mortgage-backed securities involve a risk that actual prepayments may differ from estimated prepayments over the life of the security, which may requireadjustments to the amortization of any premium or accretion of any discount relating to such instruments, thereby changing the net yield on such securities. There isalso reinvestment risk associated with the cash flows from such securities or if such securities are redeemed by the issuer. In addition, the fair value of such securitiesmay be adversely affected in a rising interest rate environment, particularly since all of our mortgage-backed securities have a fixed rate of interest.  At December 31, 2023, collateralized mortgage obligations totaled $133.5 million. At December 31, 2023, the collateralized mortgage obligations portfolioconsisted entirely of securities backed by government sponsored enterprises or U.S. Government agencies.  The collateralized mortgage obligations portfolio had aweighted average yield of 2.48% and a weighted average remaining life of 6.2 years at December 31, 2023. The estimated fair value of our collateralized mortgageobligations portfolio at December 31, 2023 was $19.2 million less than the amortized cost of $152.7 million. At December 31, 2023, $115.2 million in collateralized mortgageobligation securities were pledged as collateral for advances from the Federal Reserve Bank. Investments in collateralized mortgage obligations involve a risk thatactual may differ from estimated prepayments over the life of the security, which may require adjustments to the amortization of any premium or accretion of anydiscount relating to such instruments, thereby changing the net yield on such securities. There is also reinvestment risk associated with the cash flows from suchsecurities or if such securities are redeemed by the issuer. In addition, the fair value of such securities may be adversely affected in a rising interest rate environment,particularly since all of our collateralized mortgage obligations have a fixed rate of interest.  Private-Label Mortgage-backed Securities.  At December 31, 2023, private-label mortgage-backed securities totaled $7.3 million. These securities had aweighted average yield of 3.71% and a weighted average remaining life of 6.6 years at December 31, 2023. The estimated fair value of our private-label mortgage-backedsecurities portfolio at December 31, 2023 was $801,000 less than the amortized cost of $8.1 million. Investments in mortgage-backed securities involve a risk that actualprepayments may differ from estimated prepayments over the life of the security, which may require adjustments to the amortization of any premium or accretion of anydiscount relating to such instruments, thereby changing the net yield on such securities. There is also reinvestment risk associated with the cash flows from suchsecurities or if such securities are redeemed by the issuer. In addition, the fair value of such securities may be adversely affected in a rising interest rate environment,particularly since all of our mortgage-backed securities have a fixed rate of interest. Government Sponsored Enterprise Bonds.  At December 31, 2023, our Government sponsored enterprise bond portfolio totaled $2.3 million, all of which wereissued by Federal National Mortgage Association ("Fannie Mae") and were classified as available for sale.  The weighted average yield on these securities was 0.60%and the weighted average remaining average life was 1.7 years at December 31, 2023.  While these securities generally provide lower yields than other investments in oursecurities investment portfolio, we maintain these investments, to the extent appropriate, for liquidity purposes and prepayment protection.  The estimated fair value ofour government sponsored enterprise bond portfolio at December 31, 2023 was $152,000 less than the amortized cost of $2.5 million. Government sponsored enterprisebond securities valued at $2.3 million were pledged as collateral for advances from the Federal Reserve Bank as of December 31, 2023 Municipal Obligations.  These securities consist of obligations issued by school districts, counties and municipalities or their agencies and include generalobligation bonds, industrial development revenue bonds and other revenue bonds.  Our investment policy requires that such municipal obligations be rated A+ orbetter by a nationally recognized rating agency at the date of purchase.  A security that is downgraded below investment grade will require additional analysis ofcreditworthiness and a determination will be made to hold or dispose of the investment.  We regularly monitor the credit quality of this portfolio.  At December 31, 2023,our municipal obligations portfolio totaled $39.5 million, all of which was classified as available for sale.  The weighted average yield on this portfolio was 4.39% atDecember 31, 2023, with a weighted average remaining life of 7.3 years.  The estimated fair value of our municipal obligations bond portfolio at December 31, 2023 was$184,000 more than the amortized cost of $39.3 million.   - 16 -  Other Debt Securities.  As of December 31, 2023, we held other debt securities in the portfolio that totaled $11.2 million.  Other debt securities consists of twocorporate bonds. The weighted average yield on this portfolio was 3.02% at December 31, 2023, with a weighted average remaining life of 6.3 years.  We regularlymonitor the credit quality of this portfolio. The unrealized losses for the other debt securities is due to the current slope of the yield curve. One security earns a floatingrate that is indexed to the 10 year Treasury interest rate. As of December 31, 2023, no allowance for credit losses on securities was recognized. The Company does not consider its securities with unrealized losses tobe attributable to credit-related factors, as the unrealized losses in each category have occurred as a result of changes in noncredit-related factors such as changes ininterest rates, market spreads and market conditions subsequent to purchase, not credit deterioration. Furthermore, the Company does not have the intent to sell any ofthese securities and believes that it is more likely than not that we will not have to sell any such securities before a recovery of cost. Portfolio Maturities and Yields.  The composition and maturities of the debt securities portfolio at December 31, 2023 are summarized in the following table. Maturities are based on the final contractual payment dates and do not reflect the impact of prepayments or early redemptions that may occur.  Municipal obligationyields have not been adjusted to a tax-equivalent basis.  Certain mortgage related securities have interest rates that are adjustable and will reprice annually within thevarious maturity ranges.  These repricing schedules are not reflected in the table below.   One Year or Less  More than One Yearthrough Five Years  More than Five Yearsthrough Ten Years  More than Ten Years  Total Securities       Weighted      Weighted      Weighted      Weighted      Weighted   Amortized  Average  Amortized  Average  Amortized  Average  Amortized  Average  Amortized  Average   Cost  Yield  Cost  Yield  Cost  Yield  Cost  Yield  Cost  Yield   (Dollars in Thousands) Debt securities available for sale:                                        Mortgage-backed securities $51   5.43% $3,864   2.68% $790   3.47% $7,946   2.31% $12,651   2.51%Collateralized mortgageobligations:                                        Government sponsoredenterprise issued  2,602   3.47%  42,208   3.96%  106,319   1.89%  1,571   1.01%  152,700   2.48%Private-label issued  -   -   664   7.43%  7,397   3.38%  -   -   8,061   3.71%Government sponsoredenterprise bonds  -   -   2,500   0.60%  -   -   -   -   2,500   0.60%Municipal obligations  7,380   3.49%  8,390   4.44%  7,158   5.25%  16,376   4.41%  39,304   4.39%Other debt securities  -   -   -   -   12,500   3.02%  -   -   12,500   3.02%Total debt securities available forsale $10,033   3.49% $57,626   3.84% $134,164   2.27% $25,893   3.56% $227,716   2.86% Sources of Funds General.  Deposits have traditionally been our primary source of funds for use in lending and investment activities. We also rely on advances from the FederalHome Loan Bank of Chicago and borrowings from other commercial banks in the form of repurchase agreements collateralized by investment securities.  In addition todeposits and borrowings, we derive funds from scheduled loan payments, investment maturities, loan prepayments, retained earnings and income on earning assets. While scheduled loan payments and income on earning assets are relatively stable sources of funds, deposit inflows and outflows can vary widely and are influencedby prevailing market interest rates, economic conditions and competition from other financial institutions. Deposits.  A majority of our depositors are persons or businesses who work, reside, or are located in Milwaukee and Waukesha Counties and, to a lesser extent,other southeastern Wisconsin communities. We offer a selection of deposit instruments, including checking, savings, money market deposit accounts, and fixed-termcertificates of deposit. Deposit account terms vary, with the principal differences being the minimum balance required, the amount of time the funds must remain ondeposit and the interest rate. As of December 31, 2023, certificates of deposit comprised 61.3% of total customer deposits, and had a weighted average cost of 3.02% onthat date. Our reliance on certificates of deposit has resulted in a higher cost of funds than would otherwise be the case if demand deposits, savings and money marketaccounts made up a larger part of our deposit base. Development of our branch network and expansion of our commercial products and services and aggressivelyseeking lower cost savings, checking and money market accounts are expected to result in decreased reliance on higher-cost certificates of deposit. Interest rates paid, maturity terms, service fees and withdrawal penalties are established on a periodic basis.  Deposit rates and terms are based primarily oncurrent operating strategies and market rates, liquidity requirements, rates paid by competitors and growth goals.  To attract and retain deposits, we rely uponpersonalized customer service, long-standing relationships and competitive interest rates.  We also provide remote deposit capture, internet banking and mobilebanking. The flow of deposits is influenced significantly by general economic conditions, changes in money market and other prevailing interest rates and competition. The variety of deposit accounts that we offer allows us to be competitive in obtaining funds and responding to changes in consumer demand.  Based on historicalexperience, management believes our deposits are relatively stable.  The ability to attract and maintain money market accounts and certificates of deposit, and the ratespaid on these deposits, has been and will continue to be significantly affected by market conditions.  At December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, $730.3 million and$642.3 million of our deposit accounts were certificates of deposit, of which $622.4 million and $502.3 million, respectively, had remaining maturities of one year or less. Deposits decreased by $8.4 million, or 0.7%, from December 31, 2022 to December 31, 2023. The decrease in deposits was the result of a $96.4 million, or 17.3%,decrease in total transaction accounts offset by an $88.0 million, or 13.7% increase in time deposits.  The Company had no deposits obtained directly from brokers as ofDecember 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022. - 17 -  The following table sets forth the distribution of total deposit accounts, by account type, at the dates indicated.   At December 31,   2023  2022  2021   AverageBalance  Average Costof Funds  EndingWeightedAverageYield  AverageBalance  AverageCost ofFunds  EndingWeightedAverageYield  AverageBalance  AverageCost ofFunds  EndingWeightedAverageYield   (Dollars in Thousands) Deposit type:                                    Demanddeposits $120,321   0.00%  0.00% $159,495   0.00%  0.00% $146,767   0.00%  0.00%NOW accounts  80,143   0.10%  0.11%  72,751   0.08%  0.08%  64,653   0.08%  0.08%Regular savings  61,980   0.15%  0.14%  69,988   0.04%  0.13%  69,988   0.04%  0.03%Money marketand savingsdeposits  247,139   1.80%  2.25%  321,182   0.37%  1.41%  293,942   0.30%  0.27%Total transactionaccounts  509,583   0.91%  1.08%  623,416   0.20%  0.66%  575,350   0.17%  0.15%                                     Certificates ofdeposit  700,034   3.02%  3.92%  602,332   0.60%  1.52%  675,495   0.51%  0.38%Total deposits $1,209,617   2.13%  2.81% $1,225,748   0.40%  1.12% $1,250,845   0.35%  0.27% At December 31, 2023 and 2022, the aggregate balance of uninsured deposits of $250,000 or more was $287.9 million and $313.3 million, respectively. TheCompany does not have uninsured deposits less than $250,000 in aggregate balance. The following table sets forth the maturity of uninsured certificates of deposits atDecember 31, 2023 and 2022.   At December 31,   2023  2022   (In Thousands) Due in:        Three months or less $36,974  $26,246 Over three months through six months  22,335   20,371 Over six months through 12 months  43,303   40,637 Over 12 months  7,662   23,681   $110,274  $110,935  Borrowings.  Our borrowings at December 31, 2023 consisted of $464.0 million in advances from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago, $145.0 million inshort-term borrowings with the Federal Reserve Bank (“FRB”), and $2.1 million outstanding balance in short-term repurchase agreements used to fund loans held forsale. The following table sets forth information concerning balances and interest rates on borrowings at the dates and for the periods indicated.   At or For the Year Ended December 31,   2023  2022  2021   (Dollars in Thousands) Borrowings:            Balance outstanding at end of year $611,054  $386,784  $477,127 Weighted average interest rate at the end of year  4.62%  3.68%  2.02%Average balances outstanding during the year $532,248  $348,482  $479,262 Weighted average interest rate during the year  4.37%  2.42%  2.08% - 18 -  Human Capital As of December 31, 2023, we had 698 full-time equivalent employees.  A total of 182 are WaterStone Bank employees and 516 are employees of WaterstoneMortgage Corporation. We believe we are able to attract and retain top talent by creating a culture that challenges and engages our employees, offering themopportunities to learn, grow and achieve their career goals. Further, our commitment to a culture of inclusion is integral to our goal of attracting and retaining the besttalent and ultimately driving our business performance. Our Diversity and Inclusion strategy includes regular training and development for all employees andpartnerships with non-profit organizations that share in our inclusion mission. Our employees participate in a wide array of volunteer activities and we support theircharitable giving by matching employee contributions to qualified nonprofit organizations. We offer comprehensive compensation and benefits packages to our employees including a 401k Plan, Employee Stock Ownership Plan, healthcare andinsurance benefits, health savings and flexible spending accounts, paid time off and certain family assistance programs, including paid family leave, flexible workarrangements, amongst others. We also offer stock-based compensation to certain management personnel as a way to attract and retain key talent. See Note 10 - StockBased Compensation, Note 11 - Employee Benefit Plans, and Note 12 - Employee Stock Ownership Plan to the Consolidated Financial Statements included under Item 8for further discussion of our stock-based compensation and benefit plans. Supervision and Regulation General WaterStone Bank is a stock savings bank organized under the laws of the State of Wisconsin. The lending, investment, and other business operations ofWaterStone Bank are governed by Wisconsin law and regulations, as well as applicable federal law and regulations, and WaterStone Bank is prohibited from engaging inany operations not authorized by such laws and regulations. WaterStone Bank is subject to extensive regulation, supervision and examination by the WDFI and by theFederal Deposit Insurance Corporation.  This regulation and supervision establishes a comprehensive framework of activities in which an institution may engage and isintended primarily for the protection of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation’s Deposit Insurance Fund and depositors, and not for the protection of securityholders.  WaterStone Bank also is regulated to a lesser extent by the Federal Reserve Board, governing reserves to be maintained against deposits and other matters. WaterStone Bank also is a member of and owns stock in the Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago, which is one of the 11 regional banks in the Federal Home Loan BankSystem. Under this system of regulation, the regulatory authorities have extensive discretion in connection with their supervisory, enforcement, rulemaking andexamination activities and policies, including rules or policies that: establish minimum capital levels; restrict the timing and amount of dividend payments; govern theclassification of assets; determine the adequacy of loan loss reserves for regulatory purposes; and establish the timing and amounts of assessments and fees.Moreover, as part of their examination authority, the banking regulators assign numerical ratings to banks and savings institutions relating to capital, asset quality,management, liquidity, earnings, sensitivity to market risk, and other factors. These ratings are inherently subjective and the receipt of a less than satisfactory rating inone or more categories may result in supervisory or enforcement action by the banking regulators against a financial institution. A less than satisfactory rating may alsoprevent a financial institution, such as WaterStone Bank or Waterstone Financial, from obtaining necessary regulatory approvals to pay dividends, repurchase shares ofcommon stock, acquire other financial institutions or establish new branches. In addition, we must comply with significant anti-money laundering and anti-terrorist financing laws and regulations, Community Reinvestment Act laws andregulations, and fair lending laws and regulations. Government agencies have the authority to impose monetary penalties and other sanctions on institutions that fail tocomply with these laws and regulations, which could significantly affect our business activities, including our ability to acquire other financial institutions or expand ourbranch network. As a savings and loan holding company, Waterstone Financial is required to comply with the rules and regulations of the Federal Reserve Board.  It is requiredto file certain reports with the Federal Reserve Board and is subject to examination by and the enforcement authority of the Federal Reserve Board.  WaterstoneFinancial is also subject to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission under the federal securities laws. Any change in applicable laws or regulations, whether by the WDFI, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, the Federal Reserve Board, Wisconsinlegislature, or Congress, could have a material adverse impact on the operations and financial performance of Waterstone Financial, WaterStone Bank and WaterstoneMortgage Corporation. Set forth below is a brief description of material regulatory requirements that are or will be applicable to WaterStone Bank, Waterstone Mortgage Corporationand Waterstone Financial. The description is limited to certain material aspects of the statutes and regulations addressed, and is not intended to be a completedescription of such statutes and regulations and their effects on WaterStone Bank, Waterstone Mortgage Corporation and Waterstone Financial. - 19 -  Intrastate and Interstate Merger and Branching Activities Wisconsin Law and Regulation. Any Wisconsin savings bank meeting certain requirements may, upon approval of the WDFI, establish one or more branchoffices in the state of Wisconsin and the states of Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, and Ohio.  In addition, upon WDFI approval, aWisconsin savings bank may establish a branch office in any other state as the result of a merger or consolidation. Federal Law and Regulation.  Federal law permits the federal banking agencies to, under certain circumstances, approve acquisition transactions betweenbanks located in different states, regardless of whether an acquisition would be prohibited under state law. Federal law also authorizes de novo branching into anotherstate at locations at which banks chartered by the host state could establish a branch. Loans and Investments Wisconsin Law and Regulations.  Under Wisconsin law and regulation, WaterStone Bank is authorized to make, invest in, sell, purchase, participate orotherwise deal in mortgage loans or interests in mortgage loans without geographic restriction, including loans made on the security of residential and commercialproperty. Wisconsin savings banks also may lend funds on a secured or unsecured basis for business, commercial or agricultural purposes, provided the total of allsuch loans does not exceed 20% of the savings bank’s total assets, unless the WDFI authorizes a greater amount. Loans are subject to certain other limitations,including percentage restrictions based on total assets. Wisconsin savings banks may invest funds in certain types of debt and equity securities, including obligations of federal, state and local governments andagencies. Subject to prior approval of the WDFI, compliance with capital requirements and certain other restrictions, Wisconsin savings banks may invest in residentialhousing development projects. Wisconsin savings banks may also invest in service corporations or subsidiaries with the prior approval of the WDFI, subject to certainrestrictions.  Similarly, the line of credit that WaterStone Bank provides to Waterstone Mortgage Corporation is subject to the approval of the WDFI. Wisconsin savings banks may make loans and extensions of credit, both direct and indirect, to one borrower in amounts up to 20% of the savings bank’scapital plus an additional 5% for loans fully secured by readily marketable collateral. In addition, and notwithstanding the 20% of capital and additional 5% of capitallimitations set forth above, Wisconsin savings banks may make loans to one borrower, or a related group of borrowers, for any purpose in an amount not to exceed$500,000, or to develop domestic residential housing units in an amount not to exceed the lesser of $30 million or 30% of the savings bank’s capital, subject to certainconditions.  At December 31, 2023, WaterStone Bank did not have any loans which exceeded the “loans-to-one borrower” limitations. In addition, under Wisconsin law, WaterStone Bank must qualify for and maintain a level of qualified thrift investments equal to 60% of its assets as prescribedin Section 7701(a)(19) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. A Wisconsin savings bank that fails to meet this qualified thrift lender test becomes subject tocertain operating restrictions otherwise applicable only to commercial banks. At December 31, 2023, WaterStone Bank maintained 88.1% of its assets in qualified thriftinvestments and therefore met the qualified thrift lender requirement. Federal Law and Regulation. Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation regulations also govern the equity investments of WaterStone Bank and,notwithstanding Wisconsin law and regulations, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation regulations prohibit WaterStone Bank from making certain equity investmentsand generally limit WaterStone Bank’s equity investments to those that are permissible for national banks and their subsidiaries.  Under Federal Deposit InsuranceCorporation regulations, WaterStone Bank must obtain prior Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation approval before directly, or indirectly through a majority-ownedsubsidiary, engaging “as principal” in any activity that is not permissible for a national bank unless certain exceptions apply. The activity regulations provide that statebanks that meet applicable minimum capital requirements would be permitted to engage in certain activities that are not permissible for national banks, including certainreal estate and securities activities conducted through subsidiaries. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation will not approve an activity that it determines presents asignificant risk to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insurance fund. The current activities of WaterStone Bank and its subsidiaries are permissible underapplicable federal regulations. Loans to, and other transactions with, affiliates of WaterStone Bank, such as Waterstone Financial, are restricted by the Federal Reserve Act and regulationsissued by the Federal Reserve Board thereunder. See “Transactions with Affiliates and Insiders” below. Lending Standards Federal Law and Regulation. The federal banking agencies have adopted uniform regulations prescribing standards for extensions of credit that are securedby liens on interests in real estate or made for the purpose of financing the construction of a building or other improvements to real estate. Under the joint regulationsadopted by the federal banking agencies, all insured depository institutions, such as WaterStone Bank, must adopt and maintain written policies that establishappropriate limits and standards for extensions of credit that are secured by liens or interests in real estate or are made for the purpose of financing permanentimprovements to real estate. These policies must establish loan portfolio diversification standards, prudent underwriting standards (including loan-to-value limits) thatare clear and measurable, loan administration procedures, and loan documentation, approval and reporting requirements. The real estate lending policies must reflectconsideration of the Interagency Guidelines for Real Estate Lending Policies ("Interagency Guidelines") that have been adopted by the federal bank regulators. - 20 -  The Interagency Guidelines, among other things, require a depository institution to establish internal loan-to-value limits for real estate loans that are not inexcess of the following supervisory limits:  ●for loans secured by raw land, the supervisory loan-to-value limit is 65% of the value of the collateral; ●for land development loans (i.e., loans for the purpose of improving unimproved property prior to the erection of structures), the supervisory limit is75%; ●for loans for the construction of commercial, over four-family or other non-residential property, the supervisory limit is 80%; ●for loans for the construction of one- to four-family properties, the supervisory limit is 85%; and ●for loans secured by other improved property (e.g., farmland, completed commercial property and other income-producing property, including non-owner occupied, one- to four-family property), the limit is 85%. Although no supervisory loan-to-value limit has been established for permanent mortgages on owner-occupied, one- to four-family and home equity loans, theInteragency Guidelines state that for any such loan with a loan-to-value ratio that equals or exceeds 90% at origination, an institution should require appropriate creditenhancement in the form of either mortgage insurance or readily marketable collateral. Deposits Wisconsin Law and Regulation.  Under Wisconsin law, WaterStone Bank is permitted to establish deposit accounts and accept deposits. WaterStone Bank’sboard of directors, or its designee, determines the rate and amount of interest to be paid on or credited to deposit accounts subject to Federal Deposit InsuranceCorporation limitations. Deposit Insurance Wisconsin Law and Regulation.  Under Wisconsin law, WaterStone Bank is required to obtain and maintain insurance on its deposits from a deposit insurancecorporation. The deposits of WaterStone Bank are insured up to the applicable limits by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. Federal Law and Regulation.  WaterStone Bank is a member of the Deposit Insurance Fund, which is administered by the Federal Deposit InsuranceCorporation.  WaterStone Bank’s deposit accounts are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, generally up to a maximum of $250,000 per depositor peraccount ownership category. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation imposes an assessment against all insured depository institutions. An institution’s assessment rate depends uponthe perceived risk of the institution to the Deposit Insurance Fund, with less risky institutions paying lower rates.  Currently, assessments for institutions of less than$10 billion of total assets are based on financial measures and supervisory ratings derived from statistical models estimating the probability of failure within three years.Effective January 1, 2023, assessment rates for institutions of WaterStone Bank’s size range from 2.5 to 32 basis points of an institution’s total assets less tangiblecapital.  The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation may increase or decrease the range of assessments uniformly, except that no adjustment can deviate more than twobasis points from the base assessment rate without notice and comment rulemaking.  The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation has the authority to increase insurance assessments. A significant increase in insurance premiums would have anadverse effect on the operating expenses and results of operations of WaterStone Bank. We cannot predict what deposit insurance assessment rates will be in thefuture. Insurance of deposits may be terminated by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation upon a finding that an institution has engaged in unsafe or unsoundpractices, is in an unsafe or unsound condition to continue operations or has violated any applicable law, regulation, order or condition imposed by the Federal DepositInsurance Corporation. We do not know of any practice, condition or violation that might lead to termination of deposit insurance. - 21 -  Capitalization Wisconsin Law and Regulation. Wisconsin savings banks are required to maintain a minimum capital to total assets ratio of 6% and must maintain total capitalnecessary to ensure the continuation of insurance of deposit accounts by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. If the WDFI determines that the financialcondition, history, management or earning prospects of a savings bank are not adequate, the WDFI may require a higher minimum capital level for the savings bank. If aWisconsin savings bank’s capital ratio falls below the required level, the WDFI may direct the savings bank to adhere to a specific written plan established by the WDFIto correct the savings bank’s capital deficiency, as well as a number of other restrictions on the savings bank’s operations, including a prohibition on the payment ofdividends. At December 31, 2023, WaterStone Bank’s capital to assets ratio, as calculated under Wisconsin law, was 14.42%. Federal Law and Regulation. Federal regulations require Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insured depository institutions to meet several minimumcapital standards:  a common equity Tier 1 capital to risk-based assets ratio of 4.5%, a Tier 1 capital to risk-based assets ratio of 6.0%, a total capital to risk-based assetsratio of 8.0%, and a 4.0% Tier 1 capital to total assets leverage ratio. Common equity Tier 1 capital is generally defined as common stockholders’ equity and retained earnings.  Tier 1 capital is generally defined as common equityTier 1 and additional Tier 1 capital.  Additional Tier 1 capital includes certain noncumulative perpetual preferred stock and related surplus and minority interests in equityaccounts of consolidated subsidiaries.  Total capital includes Tier 1 capital (common equity Tier 1 capital plus additional Tier 1 capital) and Tier 2 capital.  Tier 2 capital iscomprised of capital instruments and related surplus, meeting specified requirements, and may include cumulative preferred stock and long-term perpetual preferredstock, mandatory convertible securities, intermediate preferred stock and subordinated debt.  Also included in Tier 2 capital is the allowance for loan and lease losseslimited to a maximum of 1.25% of risk-weighted assets and, for institutions that have exercised an opt-out election regarding the treatment of Accumulated OtherComprehensive Income (“AOCI”), up to 45% of net unrealized gains on available-for-sale equity securities with readily determinable fair market values.  Institutions thathave not exercised the AOCI opt-out have AOCI incorporated into common equity Tier 1 capital (including unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale-securities). WaterStone Bank exercised its AOCI opt-out election.  Calculation of all types of regulatory capital is subject to deductions and adjustments specified in theregulations. In addition to establishing the minimum regulatory capital requirements, the regulations limit capital distributions and certain discretionary bonus payments tomanagement if the institution does not hold a “capital conservation buffer” consisting of 2.5% of common equity Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted asset above the amountnecessary to meet its minimum risk-based capital requirements.  In assessing an institution’s capital adequacy, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation takes into consideration, not only these numeric factors, butqualitative factors as well, including the bank’s exposure to interest rate risk.  The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation has the authority to establish higher capitalrequirements for individual institutions where deemed necessary due to a determination that an institution’s capital levels are, or are likely to become, inadequate in lightof particular circumstances. Legislation enacted in 2018 required the federal banking agencies, including the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, to establish a “community bankleverage ratio” of between 8 to 10% of average total consolidated assets for qualifying institutions with assets of less than $10 billion.  Institutions with capital meetingthe specified requirements and electing to follow the alternative framework are deemed to comply with the applicable regulatory capital requirements, including the risk-based requirements.  A qualifying institution may opt in and out of the community bank leverage ratio on its quarterly call report. The optional community bank leverage ratio has currently been established at 9%. WaterStone Bank has not opted into the community bank leverage ratio. Safety and Soundness Standards Each federal banking agency, including the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, has adopted guidelines establishing general standards relating to internalcontrols, internal audit systems, loan documentation, credit underwriting, interest rate exposure, asset growth, asset quality, earnings and compensation, fees andbenefits, and information security. In general, the guidelines require, among other things, appropriate systems and practices to identify and manage the risks andexposures specified in the guidelines. The guidelines prohibit excessive compensation as an unsafe and unsound practice and describe compensation as excessivewhen the amounts paid are unreasonable or disproportionate to the services performed by an executive officer, employee, director, or principal shareholder. Prompt Corrective Regulatory Action Federal bank regulatory authorities are required to take "prompt corrective action" with respect to institutions that do not meet minimum capital requirements.For these purposes, the statute establishes five capital categories: well capitalized, adequately capitalized, undercapitalized, significantly undercapitalized, and criticallyundercapitalized. Under the regulations, a bank is deemed to be (i) "well capitalized" if it has total risk-based capital ratio of 10.0% or more, has a Tier 1 risk-based capitalratio of 8.0% or more, has a Tier 1 leveraged capital ratio of 5.0% or more and a common equity Tier 1 ratio of 6.5% or more, and is not subject to any written capital orderor directive; (ii) "adequately capitalized" if it has a total risk-based capital ratio of 8.0% or more, a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of 6.0% or more, a Tier 1 leveraged capitalratio of 4.0% or more and a common equity Tier 1 capital ratio of 4.5% or more, and does not meet the definition of "well capitalized"; (iii) "undercapitalized" if it has atotal risk-based capital ratio that is less than 8.0%, a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio that is less than 6.0%, a Tier 1 leverage capital ratio that is less than 4.0%, a Tier 1leverage capital ratio that is less than 3.0%, or a common equity Tier 1 capital ratio of less than 4.5%; (iv) "significantly undercapitalized" if it has a total risk-basedcapital ratio that is less than 6.0% and a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio that is less than 4.0% or a common equity Tier 1 ratio of less than 3.0%; and (v) "criticallyundercapitalized" if it has a ratio of tangible equity to total assets that is equal to or less than 2.0%. - 22 -  Federal law and regulations also specify circumstances under which a federal banking agency may reclassify a well capitalized institution as adequatelycapitalized and may require an institution classified as less than well capitalized to comply with supervisory actions as if it were in the next lower category (except thatthe Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation may not reclassify a significantly undercapitalized institution as critically undercapitalized). The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation may order savings banks that have insufficient capital to take corrective actions. For example, a savings bank thatis categorized as “undercapitalized” is subject to growth limitations and is required to submit a capital restoration plan, and a holding company that controls such asavings bank is required to guarantee that the savings bank complies with the capital restoration plan. A “significantly undercapitalized” savings bank may be subjectto additional restrictions. Savings banks deemed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation to be “critically undercapitalized” generally would be subject to theappointment of a receiver or conservator. At December 31, 2023, WaterStone Bank was considered well-capitalized with a common equity Tier 1 capital ratio of 18.99%, Tier 1 leverage capital ratio of15.62%, a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of 18.999% and a total risk based capital ratio of 20.10%. A qualifying institution whose Tier 1 capital equals or exceeds the specified community bank leverage ratio and opts into that framework will be considered wellcapitalized for prompt corrective action purposes. Dividends Under Wisconsin law and applicable regulations, a Wisconsin savings bank that meets its regulatory capital requirements may declare dividends on capitalstock based upon net profits, provided that its paid-in surplus equals its capital stock. In addition, prior WDFI approval is required before dividends exceeding 50% ofnet profits for any calendar year may be declared and before a stock dividend may be declared out of retained earnings.  Under WDFI regulations, a Wisconsin savingsbank which has converted from mutual to stock form also is prohibited from paying a dividend on its capital stock if the payment causes the regulatory capital of thesavings bank to fall below the amount required for its liquidation account. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation has the authority to prohibit WaterStone Bank from paying dividends if, in its opinion, the payment of dividendswould constitute an unsafe or unsound practice in light of the financial condition of WaterStone Bank. Institutions may not pay dividends if they would be“undercapitalized” following payment of the dividend within the meaning of the prompt corrective action regulations. Information with respect to regulations and guidance governing dividends declared and paid by Waterstone Financial is disclosed under "Holding CompanyDividends." Liquidity and Reserves Wisconsin Law and Regulation. Under WDFI regulations, all Wisconsin savings banks are required to maintain a certain amount of their assets as liquidassets, consisting of cash and certain types of investments. The exact amount of assets a savings bank is required to maintain as liquid assets is set by the WDFI, butgenerally ranges from 4% to 15% of the savings bank’s average daily balance of net withdrawable accounts plus short-term borrowings (the “Required Liquidity Ratio”).At December 31, 2023, WaterStone Bank’s Required Liquidity Ratio was 8.0%.  In addition, 50% of the liquid assets maintained by a Wisconsin savings bank mustconsist of “primary liquid assets,” which are defined to include, among other things, securities issued by the United States Government, United States Governmentagencies, or the state of Wisconsin or a subdivision thereof, and cash. For further details, see "Liquidity and Capital Resources" in the Management's Discussion andAnalysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations section.  Federal Law and Regulation. Under federal law and regulations, WaterStone Bank is required to maintain sufficient liquidity to ensure safe and sound bankingpractices. Regulation D, promulgated by the Federal Reserve Board, imposes reserve requirements on all depository institutions, including WaterStone Bank, whichmaintain transaction accounts or non-personal time deposits. Checking accounts, NOW accounts, Super NOW checking accounts, and certain other types of accountsthat permit payments or transfers to third parties fall within the definition of transaction accounts and are subject to Regulation D reserve requirements, as are any non-personal time deposits (including certain money market deposit accounts) at a savings institution.  However, effective March 26, 2020, the Federal Reserve Boardreduced reserve requirement ratios to zero, thereby effectively eliminating the requirements.  The Federal Reserve Board took that action due to a change in its approachto monetary policy; it has indicated that it currently has no plans to re-impose reserve requirements but could in the future if conditions warrant. - 23 -  Transactions with Affiliates and Insiders Wisconsin Law and Regulation. Under Wisconsin law, a savings bank may not make a loan to a person owning 10% or more of its stock, an affiliated person(including a director, officer, or controlling person, the spouse of such individual, or a member of the immediate family of such person who is living in the sameresidence or who is a director or officer of a subsidiary of the bank or of a holding company of the bank), agent, or attorney of the savings bank, either individually or asan agent or partner of another, except as under the rules of the WDFI and regulations of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.  In addition, unless the priorapproval of the WDFI is obtained, a savings bank may not purchase, lease or acquire a site for an office building or an interest in real estate from an officer, director,employee, or a shareholder owning more than 10% of its capital stock, or from any firm, corporation, entity or family in which an officer, director, employee or 10%shareholder has a direct or indirect interest. Federal Law and Regulation.  Sections 23A and 23B of the Federal Reserve Act govern transactions between an insured savings bank, such as WaterStoneBank, and any of its affiliates, including Waterstone Financial. The Federal Reserve Board has adopted Regulation W, which comprehensively implements and interpretsSections 23A and 23B, in part by codifying prior Federal Reserve Board interpretations under Sections 23A and 23B. Sections 23A and 23B of the Federal Reserve Actare made applicable to WaterStone Bank through Section 18(j) of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act, and Regulation W is made applicable through Federal DepositInsurance Corporation regulation. An affiliate of a savings bank includes, among other things, any company or entity that controls, is controlled by or is under common control with thesavings bank. A subsidiary of a savings bank that is not also a depository institution or a “financial subsidiary” under federal law is generally not treated as anaffiliate of the savings bank for the purposes of Sections 23A and 23B and Regulation W; however, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation has the discretion totreat subsidiaries of a savings bank as affiliates on a case-by-case basis. Section 23A and Regulation W limit the extent to which a savings bank or its subsidiaries mayengage in “covered transactions” with any one affiliate to an amount equal to 10% of such savings bank’s capital stock and surplus, and limit all such transactionswith all affiliates to an amount equal to 20% of such capital stock and surplus. The term “covered transaction” includes the making of loans, purchase of assets,issuance of guarantees and other similar types of transactions with affiliates. “Covered transactions” must be consistent with safe and sound banking practices. Further, most loans and other extensions of credit by a savings bank to any of its affiliates must be secured by collateral in amounts ranging from 100% to 130% of theloan amounts, depending on the type of collateral. In addition, under Section 23B and Regulation W, any affiliate transaction must be on terms and undercircumstances that are substantially the same, or at least as favorable, to the savings bank as those prevailing at the time for comparable transactions with or involvinga non-affiliate. A savings bank’s loans to its and its affiliates’ executive officers, directors, any owner of more than 10% of its stock (each, an insider) and any of certainentities controlled by any such person (an insider’s related interests) are subject to the conditions and limitations imposed by Section 22(h) of the Federal Reserve Actand the Federal Reserve Board’s Regulation O thereunder, as made applicable to WaterStone Bank by Section 18(j) of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act and FederalDeposit Insurance Corporation regulation. Under these restrictions, the aggregate amount of the loans to any insider and the insider’s related interests may not exceedthe loans-to-one-borrower limit applicable to national banks (which is generally 15% of unimpaired capital and unimpaired surplus).  Aggregate loans by a savingsbank to its insiders and insiders’ related interests in the aggregate may not exceed the savings bank’s unimpaired capital and unimpaired surplus. With certainexceptions, loans to an executive officer, other than loans for the education of the officer’s children and certain loans secured by the officer’s primary residence, maynot exceed the greater of $25,000 or 2.5% of the savings bank’s unimpaired capital and unimpaired surplus, but in no event more than $100,000. Regulation O alsorequires that any proposed loan to an insider or a related interest of that insider be approved in advance by a majority of the board of directors of the savings bank,with any interested director not participating in the voting, if such loan, when aggregated with any existing loans to that insider and the insider’s related interests,would exceed either $500,000 or the greater of $25,000 or 5% of the savings bank’s unimpaired capital and surplus. Generally, such loans must be made on substantiallythe same terms as, and follow credit underwriting procedures that are no less stringent than, those that are prevailing at the time for comparable transactions withother persons and must not present more than a normal risk of repayment or present other unfavorable features. An exception to the requirement is made for extensions of credit made pursuant to a benefit or compensation plan of a savings bank that is widely available toemployees of the bank and that does not give any preference to insiders of the bank over other employees of the bank. Consistent with these requirements, WaterStoneBank offered employees special terms for home mortgage loans on their principal residences. Effective April 1, 2006, this program was discontinued for new loanoriginations. Under the terms of the discontinued program, the employee interest rate is based on WaterStone Bank’s cost of funds on December 31st of the immediatelypreceding year and is adjusted annually. At December 31, 2023, the rate of interest on an employee rate mortgage loan was 1.75%, compared to the weighted average rateof 5.35% on all single family mortgage loans. This rate will increase to 3.45% effective March 1, 2024. Employee rate mortgage loans totaled $456,000, or 0.1%, of oursingle family residential mortgage loan portfolio on December 31, 2023. Transactions between WaterStone Bank Customers and Affiliates Wisconsin savings banks, such as WaterStone Bank, are subject to the prohibitions on certain tying arrangements. Subject to certain exceptions, a savingsbank is prohibited from extending credit to or offering any other service to a customer, or fixing or varying the consideration for such extension of credit or service, onthe condition that such customer obtain some additional service from the institution or certain of its affiliates or not obtain services of a competitor of the institution orits affiliates. Examinations and Assessments WaterStone Bank is required to file periodic reports with and is subject to periodic examinations by the WDFI and FDIC.  WaterStone Bank is required to payexamination fees and annual assessments to fund its supervision.  Federal regulations require annual on-site examinations for all depository institutions except certainwell-capitalized and highly rated institutions with assets of less than $3 billion which are examined every 18 months.  - 24 -  Customer Privacy Under Wisconsin and federal law and regulations, savings banks, such as WaterStone Bank, are required to develop and maintain privacy policies relating toinformation on its customers, restrict access to and establish procedures to protect customer data. Applicable privacy regulations further restrict the sharing of non-public customer data with non-affiliated parties if the customer requests. Community Reinvestment Act Under the Community Reinvestment Act, WaterStone Bank has a continuing and affirmative obligation consistent with its safe and sound operation to helpmeet the credit needs of its entire community, including low and moderate income neighborhoods. The Community Reinvestment Act does not establish specific lendingrequirements or programs for financial institutions nor does it limit an institution’s discretion to develop the types of products and services that it believes are bestsuited to its particular community, consistent with the Community Reinvestment Act. The Community Reinvestment Act requires the Federal Deposit InsuranceCorporation, in connection with its examination of WaterStone Bank, to assess WaterStone Bank’s record of meeting the credit needs of its community and to take thatrecord into account in the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation’s evaluation of certain applications by WaterStone Bank. For example, federal regulations specify thata bank’s Community Reinvestment Act performance will be considered in its expansion (e.g., branching or merger) proposals and may be the basis for approving,denying or conditioning the approval of an application. As of the date of its most recent regulatory examination, WaterStone Bank was rated “satisfactory” with respectto its Community Reinvestment Act compliance. On October 24, 2023, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, Federal Reserve Board, and the Office of theComptroller of the Currency issued a final rule to strengthen and modernize the federal Community Reinvestment Act regulations.  Under the final rule, banks withassets of at least $2 billion as of December 31 in both of the prior two calendar years will be a “large bank.” The agencies will evaluate large banks under fourperformance tests: the Retail Lending Test, the Retail Services and Products Test, the Community Development Financing Test, and the Community DevelopmentServices Test. The applicability date for the majority of the provisions in the Community Reinvestment Act regulations is January 1, 2026, and additional requirementswill be applicable on January 1, 2027. Federal Home Loan Bank System The Federal Home Loan Bank System, consisting of 11 Federal Home Loan Banks, is under the jurisdiction of the Federal Housing Finance Agency. Thedesignated duties of the Federal Housing Finance Agency include supervising the Federal Home Loan Banks; ensuring that the Federal Home Loan Banks carry outtheir housing finance mission; ensuring that the Federal Home Loan Banks remain adequately capitalized and able to raise funds in the capital markets; andensuring that the Federal Home Loan Banks operate in a safe and sound manner. WaterStone Bank, as a member of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago, is required to acquire and hold shares of capital stock in the Federal Home LoanBank of Chicago in specified amounts. WaterStone Bank is in compliance with this requirement with an investment in Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago stock of$20.9 million at December 31, 2023. Among other benefits, the Federal Home Loan Banks provide a central credit facility primarily for member institutions. It is funded primarily from proceedsderived from the sale of consolidated obligations of the Federal Home Loan Bank System. It makes advances to members in accordance with policies and proceduresestablished by the Federal Housing Finance Agency and the board of directors of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago. At December 31, 2023, WaterStone Bank had$464.0 million in advances from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago. USA PATRIOT Act The USA PATRIOT Act gives the federal government powers to address terrorist threats through enhanced domestic security measures, expanded surveillancepowers, increased information sharing and broadened anti-money laundering requirements. The USA PATRIOT Act also required the federal banking agencies to takeinto consideration the effectiveness of controls designed to combat money laundering activities in determining whether to approve a merger or other acquisitionapplication of a member institution. Accordingly, if we engage in a merger or other acquisition, our controls designed to combat money laundering would be consideredas part of the application process. We have established policies, procedures and systems designed to comply with applicable anti-money laundering and anti-terroristfinancing laws, including the Bank Secrecy Act and the USA PATRIOT Act, and implementing regulations thereunder. Regulation of Waterstone Mortgage Corporation Waterstone Mortgage Corporation is subject to numerous federal, state and local laws and regulations and may be subject to various judicial andadministrative decisions imposing various requirements and restrictions on its business.  These laws, regulations and judicial and administrative decisions to whichWaterstone Mortgage Corporation is subject include those pertaining to: real estate settlement procedures; fair lending; fair credit reporting; truth in lending;compliance with net worth and financial statement delivery requirements; compliance with federal and state disclosure and licensing requirements; the establishment ofmaximum interest rates, finance charges and other charges; secured transactions; collection, foreclosure, repossession and claims-handling procedures; other tradepractices and privacy regulations providing for the use and safeguarding of non-public personal financial information of borrowers; and guidance on non-traditionalmortgage loans issued by the federal financial regulatory agencies.   - 25 -  Holding Company Regulation Waterstone Financial is a unitary savings and loan holding company subject to regulation and supervision by the Federal Reserve Board. The Federal ReserveBoard has enforcement authority over Waterstone Financial and its non-savings institution subsidiaries. Among other things, that authority permits the Federal ReserveBoard to restrict or prohibit activities that are determined to be a risk to WaterStone Bank. In addition, any company that directly or indirectly owns, controls, or holdswith power to vote, more than 25% of the voting securities of a state savings bank is subject to regulation as a savings bank holding company by the WDFI.Waterstone Financial is subject to regulation as a savings bank holding company under Wisconsin law. However, the WDFI has not issued specific regulationsgoverning stock savings bank holding companies. The business activities of savings and loan holding companies are generally limited to those activities permissible for  bank holding companies under Section4(c)(8) of the Bank Holding Company Act, subject to the prior approval of the Federal Reserve Board, and certain additional activities authorized by Federal ReserveBoard regulations, unless the holding company has elected “financial holding company” status.  A financial holding company may engage in activities that are financialin nature, including underwriting equity securities and insurance as well as activities that are incidental to financial activities or complementary to a financial activity. Waterstone Financial has not elected financial holding company status.  Federal law generally prohibits the acquisition of more than 5% of a class of voting stock of acompany engaged in impermissible activities. Federal law prohibits a savings and loan holding company, directly or indirectly, or through one or more subsidiaries, from acquiring more than 5% of anothersavings institution or savings and loan holding company without prior written approval of the Federal Reserve Board, and from acquiring or retaining control of anydepository institution not insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. In evaluating applications by holding companies to acquire savings institutions, theFederal Reserve Board must consider such things as the financial and managerial resources and future prospects of the company and institution involved, the effect ofthe acquisition on and the risk to the deposit insurance fund, the convenience and needs of the community and competitive factors. A savings and loan holdingcompany may not acquire a savings institution in another state and hold the target institution as a separate subsidiary unless it is a supervisory acquisition underSection 13(k) of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act or the law of the state in which the target is located authorizes such acquisitions by out-of-state companies. The Federal Reserve Board is required to impose upon bank and savings and loan holding companies consolidated regulatory capital requirements that areequally stringent as those applicable to the subsidiary depository institutions.  However, the “small holding company” exception for holding companies with less than$3 billion of consolidated assets, such as Waterstone Financial, generally results in such companies not being subject to the requirements unless otherwise advised bythe Federal Reserve Board. The Dodd-Frank Act extended the "source of strength" doctrine to savings and loan holding companies. The Federal Reserve Board promulgated regulationsimplementing the "source of strength" policy, which requires holding companies to act as a source of strength to their subsidiary depository institutions by providingcapital, liquidity and other support in times of financial stress. The Federal Reserve Board has issued a policy statement regarding the payment of dividends and the repurchase of shares of common stock by bank andsavings and loan holding companies. In general, the policy provides that dividends should be paid only out of current earnings and only if the prospective rate ofearnings retention by the holding company appears consistent with the organization’s capital needs, asset quality and overall financial condition. Regulatory guidanceprovides for prior regulatory consultation with respect to capital distributions in certain circumstances such as where the holding company’s net income for the pastfour quarters, net of dividends previously paid over that period, is insufficient to fully fund a proposed dividend or the holding company’s overall rate of earningsretention is inconsistent with the holding company’s capital needs and overall financial condition.  The ability of a holding company to pay dividends may be restrictedif a subsidiary bank becomes undercapitalized. The guidance also provides for prior consultation with supervisory staff for material increases in the amount of a holdingcompany’s common stock dividend.  The policy statement also states that a holding company should inform the Federal Reserve Board supervisory staff, to provideopportunity for supervisory review and possible objection, prior to redeeming or repurchasing common stock or perpetual preferred stock if the holding company isexperiencing financial weaknesses or if the repurchase or redemption would result in a net reduction, as of the end of a quarter, in the amount of such equity instrumentsoutstanding compared with the beginning of the quarter in which the redemption or repurchase occurred. These regulatory policies may affect the ability of WaterstoneFinancial to pay dividends, repurchase shares of common stock or otherwise engage in capital distributions. Holding Company Dividends Waterstone Financial is not permitted to pay dividends on its common stock if its stockholders’ equity would be reduced below the amount of the liquidationaccount established by Waterstone Financial in connection with the conversion.  In addition, Waterstone Financial is subject to relevant state corporate law limitationsand federal bank regulatory policy on the payment of dividends.  Maryland law, which is the state of Waterstone Financial’s incorporation, generally limits dividends ifthe corporation would not be able to pay its debts in the usual course of business after giving effect to the dividend or if the corporation’s total assets would be lessthan the corporation’s total liabilities plus the amount needed to satisfy the preferential rights upon dissolution of stockholders whose preferential rights on dissolutionare superior to those receiving the distribution. The dividend rate and continued payment of dividends will depend on a number of factors, including our capital requirements, our financial condition andresults of operations, tax considerations, statutory and regulatory limitations, and general economic conditions. - 26 -  Federal Securities Laws Regulation Securities Exchange Act.  Waterstone Financial common stock is registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission.  Waterstone Financial is subject tothe information, proxy solicitation, insider trading restrictions and other requirements under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Shares of common stock purchased by persons who are not affiliates of Waterstone Financial may be resold without registration. Shares purchased by anaffiliate of Waterstone Financial are subject to the resale restrictions of Rule 144 under the Securities Act of 1933. If Waterstone Financial meets the current publicinformation requirements of Rule 144 under the Securities Act of 1933, each affiliate of Waterstone Financial that complies with the other conditions of Rule 144,including those that require the affiliate’s sale to be aggregated with those of other persons, would be able to sell in the public market, without registration, a number ofshares not to exceed, in any three-month period, the greater of 1% of the outstanding shares of Waterstone Financial, or the average weekly volume of trading in theshares during the preceding four calendar weeks. In the future, Waterstone Financial may permit affiliates to have their shares registered for sale under the SecuritiesAct of 1933. Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.  The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 is intended to improve corporate responsibility, to provide for enhanced penalties foraccounting and auditing improprieties at publicly traded companies and to protect investors by improving the accuracy and reliability of corporate disclosures pursuantto the securities laws.  We have policies, procedures and systems designed to comply with this Act and its implementing regulations, and we review and document suchpolicies, procedures and systems to ensure continued compliance with this Act and its implementing regulations. Change in Control Regulations Under the Change in Bank Control Act, no person may acquire control of a savings and loan holding company such as Waterstone Financial unless the FederalReserve Board has been given 60 days’ prior written notice and has not issued a notice disapproving the proposed acquisition, taking into consideration certain factors,including the financial and managerial resources of the acquirer and the competitive effects of the acquisition. Control, as defined under the Change in Bank ControlAct, means ownership, control of or the power to vote 25% or more of any class of voting stock. Acquisition of more than 10% of any class of a savings and loanholding company’s voting stock constitutes a rebuttable presumption of control under the applicable regulations under certain circumstances including where, as is thecase with Waterstone Financial, the issuer has registered securities under Section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. In addition, the Savings and Loan Holding Company Act provides that no company may acquire control of a savings and loan holding company (as “control”is defined for purposes of that statute) without the prior approval of the Federal Reserve Board. Any company that acquires such control becomes a “savings and loanholding company” subject to registration, examination and regulation by the Federal Reserve Board.  Effective September 30, 2020, the Federal Reserve Board adoptedchanges to its regulatory definition of “control” under the Savings and Loan Holding Company Act.   Relevant factors include a company’s voting and nonvotingequity interests in the savings and loan holding company, director, officer and employee overlaps and the scope of business relationships between the company and thesavings and loan holding company or its subsidiary institution. Federal and State Taxation Federal Taxation General.  Waterstone Financial and subsidiaries are subject to federal income taxation in the same general manner as other corporations, with some exceptionsdiscussed below.  Waterstone Financial and subsidiaries constitute an affiliated group of corporations and, therefore, are eligible to report their income on aconsolidated basis.  The following discussion of federal taxation is intended only to summarize certain pertinent federal income tax matters and is not a comprehensivedescription of the tax rules applicable to Waterstone Financial or WaterStone Bank.  The Company is no longer subject to federal tax examinations for years before 2019. Method of Accounting.  For federal income tax purposes, Waterstone Financial currently reports its income and expenses on the accrual method of accountingand uses a tax year ending December 31 for filing its federal income tax returns. Bad Debt Reserves.  Prior to the Small Business Protection Act of 1996 (the "1996 Act"), WaterStone Bank was permitted to establish a reserve for bad debtsand to make annual additions to the reserve. These additions could, within specified formula limits, be deducted in arriving at our taxable income. As a result of the 1996Act, WaterStone Bank was required to use the specific charge-off method in computing its bad debt deduction beginning with its 1996 federal tax return. Savingsinstitutions were required to recapture any excess reserves over those established as of December 31, 1987 (base year reserve). At December 31, 2023, WaterStone Bankhad no reserves subject to recapture in excess of its base year. Waterstone Financial is required to use the specific charge-off method to account for tax bad debt deductions. Taxable Distributions and Recapture.  Prior to 1996, bad debt reserves created prior to 1988 were subject to recapture into taxable income if WaterStone Bankfailed to meet certain thrift asset and definitional tests or made certain distributions. Tax law changes in 1996 eliminated thrift-related recapture rules. However, undercurrent law, pre-1988 tax bad debt reserves remain subject to recapture if WaterStone Bank makes certain non-dividend distributions, repurchases any of its commonstock, pays dividends in excess of earnings and profits, or fails to qualify as a “bank” for tax purposes. At December 31, 2023, our total federal pre-base year bad debtreserve was approximately $16.7 million. - 27 -  Corporate Dividends-Received Deduction.  Waterstone Financial may exclude from its federal taxable income 100% of dividends received from WaterStoneBank as a wholly-owned subsidiary by filing consolidated tax returns.  The corporate dividends-received deduction is 65% when the corporation receiving the dividendowns at least 20% of the stock of the distributing corporation.  The dividends-received deduction is 50% when the corporation receiving the dividend owns less than20% of the distributing corporation. Inflation Reduction Act of 2022.  The Inflation Reduction Act, which was signed into law on August 16, 2022, among other things, implements a newalternative minimum tax of 15% on corporations with profits in excess of $1 billion, a 1% excise tax on stock repurchases, and several tax incentives to promote cleanenergy and climate initiatives. These provisions are effective beginning January 1, 2023. Based on its analysis of the provisions, the Company reserved approximately$250,000 for the 1% excise tax on stock repurchases.  State Taxation The Company is subject to primarily the Wisconsin corporate franchise (income) tax and taxation in a number of states due primarily to the operations of themortgage banking segment.  Under current law, the state of Wisconsin imposes a corporate franchise tax of 7.9% on the combined taxable incomes of the members of ourconsolidated income tax group. The years open to examination by state and local government authorities varies by jurisdiction. As a Maryland business corporation, Waterstone Financial is required to file an annual report and pay franchise taxes to the state of Maryland.  Item 1A.   Risk Factors An investment in our securities is subject to risks inherent in our business and the industry in which we operate. Before making an investment decision, youshould carefully consider the risks and uncertainties described below and all other information included in this report, as well as other reports we file with the SEC. Therisks described below may adversely affect our business, financial condition and operating results. In addition to these risks and the other risks and uncertaintiesdescribed in Item 1, “Business-Forward Looking Statements” and Item 7, “Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,”there may be additional risks and uncertainties that are not currently known to us or that we currently deem to be immaterial that could materially and adversely affectour business, financial condition or operating results. The value or market price of our securities could decline due to any of these identified or other risks. Past financialperformance may not be a reliable indicator of future performance, and historical trends should not be used to anticipate results or trends in future periods. Risks Related to Regulatory Matters We operate in a highly regulated environment and we are subject to supervision, examination and enforcement action by various bank regulatory agencies. We are subject to extensive supervision, regulation, and examination by the WDFI, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and the Federal Reserve Board. As a result, we are limited in the manner in which we conduct our business, undertake new investments and activities, and obtain financing.  This system of regulation isdesigned primarily for the protection of the Deposit Insurance Fund and our depositors, and not for the benefit of our stockholders.  Under this system of regulation,the regulatory authorities have extensive discretion in connection with their supervisory, enforcement, rulemaking and examination activities and policies, includingrules or policies that: establish minimum capital levels; restrict the timing and amount of dividend payments; govern the classification of assets; determine the adequacyof loan loss reserves for regulatory purposes; and establish the timing and amounts of assessments and fees. Moreover, as part of their examination authority, the banking regulators assign numerical ratings to banks and savings institutions relating to capital, assetquality, management, liquidity, earnings and other factors. These ratings are inherently subjective and the receipt of a less than satisfactory rating in one or morecategories may result in enforcement action by the banking regulators against a financial institution. A less than satisfactory rating may also prevent a financialinstitution, such as WaterStone Bank or its holding company, from obtaining necessary regulatory approvals to access the capital markets, paying dividends, acquiringother financial institutions or establishing new branches. In addition, we must comply with significant anti-money laundering and anti-terrorism laws and regulations, Community Reinvestment Act laws andregulations, and fair lending laws and regulations. Government agencies have the authority to impose monetary penalties and other sanctions on institutions that fail tocomply with these laws and regulations, which could significantly affect our business activities, including our ability to acquire other financial institutions or expand ourbranch network. Non-compliance with the USA PATRIOT Act, Bank Secrecy Act, or other laws and regulations could result in fines or sanctions. The USA PATRIOT and Bank Secrecy Acts require financial institutions to develop programs to prevent financial institutions from being used for moneylaundering and terrorist activities.  If such activities are detected, financial institutions are obligated to file suspicious activity reports with the U.S. Treasury’s Office ofFinancial Crimes Enforcement Network.  These rules require financial institutions to establish procedures for identifying and verifying the identity of customers seekingto open new financial accounts.  Failure to comply with these regulations could result in fines or sanctions.  During the last year, several banking institutions havereceived large fines for non-compliance with these laws and regulations.  While we have developed policies and procedures designed to assist in compliance with theselaws and regulations, these policies and procedures may not be effective in preventing violations of these laws and regulations. Monetary policies and regulations of the Federal Reserve Board could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition to being affected by general economic conditions, our earnings and growth are affected by the policies of the Federal Reserve Board. An importantfunction of the Federal Reserve Board is to regulate the money supply and credit conditions. Among the instruments used by the Federal Reserve Board to implementthese objectives are open market purchases and sales of U.S. government securities, adjustments of the discount rate and changes in banks’ reserve requirementsagainst bank deposits. These instruments are used in varying combinations to influence overall economic growth and the distribution of credit, bank loans, investmentsand deposits. Their use also affects interest rates charged on loans or paid on deposits. - 28 -  We are subject to the Community Reinvestment Act and fair lending laws, and failure to comply with these laws could lead to material penalties. The Community Reinvestment Act (“CRA”), the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, the Fair Housing Act and other fair lending laws and regulations imposenondiscriminatory lending requirements on financial institutions. A successful regulatory challenge to an institution’s performance under the CRA or fair lending lawsand regulations could result in a wide variety of sanctions, including the required payment of damages and civil money penalties, injunctive relief, imposition ofrestrictions on mergers and acquisitions activity and restrictions on expansion. Private parties may also have the ability to challenge an institution’s performance underfair lending laws in private class action litigation. Such actions could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. The Federal Reserve Board may require us to commit capital resources to support WaterStone Bank. Federal law requires that a holding company act as a source of financial and managerial strength to its subsidiary bank and to commit resources to supportsuch subsidiary bank. Under the “source of strength” doctrine, the Federal Reserve Board may require a holding company to make capital injections into a troubledsubsidiary bank and may charge the holding company with engaging in unsafe and unsound practices for failure to commit resources to a subsidiary bank. A capitalinjection may be required at times when the holding company may not have the resources to provide it and therefore may be required to borrow the funds or raisecapital. Thus, any borrowing or funds needed to raise capital required to make a capital injection becomes more difficult and expensive and could have an adverse effecton our business, financial condition and results of operations. Risks Related to Interest Rates The reversal of the historically low interest rate environment may adversely affect our net interest income and profitability.  The Federal Reserve Board decreased benchmark interest rates to near zero in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.  The Federal Reserve Board has reversedits policy of near zero interest rates given its concerns over inflation.  Market interest rates have risen significantly in response to the Federal Reserve Board’s recentrate increases. As discussed below, the increase in market interest rates has already had and is expected to further have an adverse effect on our net interest income andprofitability. Changing interest rates may have a negative effect on our results of operations. Our earnings and cash flows are dependent on our net interest income and income from our mortgage banking operations. Interest rates are highly sensitive tomany factors that are beyond our control, including general economic conditions and policies of various governmental and regulatory agencies and, in particular, theFederal Reserve Board. Changes in market interest rates could have an adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. Decreases in interest rates often result in increased prepayments of loans and mortgage-related securities, as borrowers refinance their loans to reduceborrowings costs.  Under these circumstances, we are subject to reinvestment risk to the extent we are unable to reinvest the cash received from such prepayments inloans or other investments that have interest rates that are comparable to the interest rates on existing loans and securities. Changes in interest rates also affect the current fair value of our interest-earning investment securities portfolio. Generally, the value of securities movesinversely with changes in interest rates. At December 31, 2023, the fair value of our investment portfolio totaled $204.9 million. Net unrealized losses on these securitiestotaled $22.8 million at December 31, 2022.  During the year ended December 31, 2023, we incurred other comprehensive gains of $1.7 million, net of tax expense, relatedto net changes in unrealized holding losses in the available-for-sale investment securities portfolio. Increases in interest rates can also have an adverse impact on our results of operations, as has happened in recent periods.  A portion of our loans haveadjustable interest rates.  While the higher payment amounts we would receive on these loans in a rising interest rate environment has increased our interest income,some borrowers may be unable to afford the higher payment amounts, which may result in a higher rate of loan delinquencies and defaults, as well as lower loanoriginations, as borrowers who may qualify for a loan based on certain mortgage repayments, may not be able to afford repayments based on higher interest rates for thesame loan amounts.  The marketability of the underlying collateral also may be adversely affected in a high interest rate environment.  Furthermore, the interest incomeearned on interest-earning assets has not increased as rapidly as the interest paid on interest-bearing liabilities, which has compressed our interest rate spread and had anegative effect on our profitability. Any increase in market interest rates may further reduce our mortgage banking income. We generate revenues primarily from gains on the sale of mortgageloans to investors, and from the amortization of deferred mortgage servicing rights. We had mortgage banking income decrease of $23.9 million during the year endedDecember 31, 2023. We also earn interest on loans held for sale while awaiting delivery to our investors. In this rising and higher interest rate environment, our mortgageloan originations have decreased, resulting in fewer loans that are available for sale. This resulted in a decrease in interest income and a decrease in revenues from loansales. In addition, our results of operations are affected by the amount of noninterest expense associated with mortgage banking activities, such as salaries andemployee benefits, occupancy, equipment, data processing and other operating costs. During periods of reduced loan demand, our results of operations may continueto be adversely affected to the extent that we are unable to reduce expenses commensurate with the decline in mortgage loan origination activity. In addition, as a result of rising interest rates, we have experienced a shift in deposits from lower-cost (savings, NOW, and money market) accounts to higher-cost certificates of deposit. However, the rates we earn on our loans did not increase as rapidly during the year ended December 31, 2023, as we have a significantamount of fixed-rate residential real estate loans where the interest rates did not increase commensurate with the increase in market interest rates. Although we have implemented asset and liability management strategies designed to reduce the effects of changes in interest rates on our results ofoperations, any substantial, unexpected, prolonged change in market interest rate could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results ofoperations. Also, our interest rate models and assumptions likely may not fully predict or capture the impact of actual interest rate changes on our balance sheet. See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition" and "Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk—Management ofMarket Risk.” - 29 -  Hedging against interest rate exposure may adversely affect our earnings On occasion we have employed various financial risk methodologies that limit, or “hedge,” the adverse effects of rising or decreasing interest rates on our loanportfolios and short-term liabilities. We also engage in hedging strategies with respect to arrangements where our customers swap floating interest rate obligations forfixed interest rate obligations, or vice versa. Our hedging activity varies based on the level and volatility of interest rates and other changing market conditions. Thereare no perfect hedging strategies, and interest rate hedging may fail to protect us from loss. Moreover, hedging activities could result in losses if the event againstwhich we hedge does not occur. Additionally, interest rate hedging could fail to protect us or adversely affect us because, among other things:  ●available interest rate hedging may not correspond directly with the interest rate risk for which protection is sought; ●the duration of the hedge may not match the duration of the related liability; ●the party owing money in the hedging transaction may default on its obligation to pay; ●the credit quality of the party owing money on the hedge may be downgraded to such an extent that it impairs our ability to sell or assign ourside of the hedging transaction; ●the value of derivatives used for hedging may be adjusted from time to time in accordance with accounting rules to reflect changes in fairvalue; and/or ●downward adjustments, or “mark-to-market” losses, would reduce our stockholders’ equity. Risks Related to Economic Matters Changes in economic conditions could adversely affect our earnings, as our borrowers’ ability to repay loans and the value of the collateral securing our loansdecline. Economic conditions have an impact, to some extent, on our overall performance. Conditions such as an economic recession, rising unemployment, changes ininterest rates, money supply and other factors beyond our control may adversely affect our asset quality, deposit levels and loan demand and, therefore, our earnings.Because a majority of our loans are secured by real estate, decreases in real estate values could adversely affect the value of property used as collateral. Adversechanges in the economy may also have a negative effect on the ability of our borrowers to make timely repayments of their loans, which could have an adverse impacton our earnings. Consequently, declines in the economy in our market area could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. Because most of our borrowers are located in the Milwaukee, Wisconsin metropolitan area, a prolonged downturn in the local economy, or a decline in local realestate values, could cause an increase in nonperforming loans or a decrease in loan demand, which would reduce our profits. Substantially all of our loans are secured by real estate located in our primary market area. Weakness in our local economy and our local real estate marketscould adversely affect the ability of our borrowers to repay their loans and the value of the collateral securing our loans, which could adversely affect our results ofoperations. Real estate values are affected by various factors, including supply and demand, changes in general or regional economic conditions, interest rates,governmental rules or policies and natural disasters. Weakness in economic conditions also could result in reduced loan demand and a decline in loan originations. Inparticular, a significant decline in real estate values would likely lead to a decrease in new loan originations and increased delinquencies and defaults by our borrowers,as well as increases in our allowance for credit losses. Inflation can have an adverse impact on our business and on our customers. Inflation risk is the risk that the value of assets or income from investments will be worth less in the future as inflation decreases the value of money.  Asinflation increases and market interest rates rise the value of our investment securities, particularly those with longer maturities, would decrease, although this effect canbe less pronounced for floating rate instruments.  In addition, inflation generally increases the cost of goods and services we use in our business operations, such aselectricity and other utilities, which increases our non-interest expenses.  Furthermore, our customers are also affected by inflation and the rising costs of goods andservices used in their households and businesses, which could have a negative impact on their ability to repay their loans with us.  Sustained higher interest rates bythe Federal Reserve Board to tame persistent inflationary price pressures could also push down asset prices and weaken economic activity. A deterioration in economicconditions in the United States and our markets could result in an increase in loan delinquencies and non-performing assets, decreases in loan collateral values and adecrease in demand for our products and services, all of which, in turn, would adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.    Our stock price may be negatively impacted by unrelated bank failures and negative depositor confidence in depository institutions. Further, if we are unableto adequately manage our liquidity, deposits, capital levels and interest rate risk, which have come under greater scrutiny in light of recent bank failures, it may have amaterial adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. On March 9, 2023, Silvergate Bank, La Jolla, California, announced its decision to voluntarily liquidate its assets and wind down operations. On March 10,2023, Silicon Valley Bank, Santa Clara, California, was closed by the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation. On March 12, 2023, Signature Bank,New York, New York, was closed by the New York State Department of Financial Services, and on May 1, 2023, First Republic Bank, San Francisco, California, was closedby the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation. These banks also had elevated levels of uninsured deposits, which may be less likely to remain atthe bank over time and less stable as a source of funding than insured deposits. These failures led to volatility and declines in the market for bank stocks and questionsabout depositor confidence in depository institutions. These events have led to a greater focus by institutions, investors and regulators on the on-balance sheet liquidity of and funding sources for financialinstitutions, the composition of its deposits, including the amount of uninsured deposits, the amount of accumulated other comprehensive loss, capital levels andinterest rate risk management. If we are unable to adequately manage our liquidity, deposits, capital levels and interest rate risk, it may have a material adverse effect onour financial condition and results of operations. - 30 -  Risks Related to Lending Matters We intend to increase our commercial business lending, and we intend to continue our commercial real estate and multi-family residential real estate lending, whichmay expose us to increased lending risks and have a negative effect on our results of operations. We continue to focus on originating commercial business, commercial real estate and multi-family residential real estate loans. These types of loans generallyhave a higher risk of loss compared to our one- to four-family residential real estate loans. Commercial business loans may expose us to greater credit risk than loanssecured by residential real estate because the collateral securing these loans may not be sold as easily as residential real estate. In addition, commercial business andcommercial real estate loans may also involve relatively large loan balances to individual borrowers or groups of borrowers. These loans also have greater credit riskthan residential real estate loans as repayment is generally dependent upon the successful operation of the borrower’s business. Also, the collateral underlyingcommercial business loans may fluctuate in value. Some of our commercial business loans are collateralized by equipment, inventory, accounts receivable or otherbusiness assets, and the liquidation of collateral in the event of default is often an insufficient source of repayment because accounts receivable may be uncollectibleand inventories may be obsolete or of limited use. Multi-family residential real estate and commercial real estate loans involve increased risk because repayment isdependent on income being generated in amounts sufficient to cover property maintenance and debt service. In addition, if loans that are collateralized by real estatebecome troubled and the value of the real estate has been significantly impaired, then we may not be able to recover the full contractual amount of principal and interestthat we anticipated at the time we originated the loan, which could cause us to increase our provision for loan losses and adversely affect our financial condition andresults of operations.  In addition, if we foreclose on these loans, our holding period for the collateral may be longer than for a single -family residential property if thereare fewer potential purchasers of the collateral. Our allowance for credit losses may prove to be insufficient to absorb life-time losses in our loan portfolio, which may adversely affect our business, financialcondition and results of operations. Under the current expected credit loss model, the allowance for credit losses on loans is a valuation allowance estimated at each balance sheet date inaccordance with GAAP that is deducted from the loans’ amortized cost basis to present the net amount expected to be collected on the loans. We estimate the ACL onloans based on the underlying assets’ amortized cost basis, which is the amount at which the financing receivable is originated or acquired, adjusted for applicableaccretion or amortization of premium, discount, and net deferred fees or costs, collection of cash, and charge-offs. Expected credit losses are reflected in the allowancefor credit losses through a charge to credit loss expense. When we deem all or a portion of a financial asset to be uncollectible the appropriate amount is written off andthe ACL is reduced by the same amount. We apply judgment to determine when a financial asset is deemed uncollectible; however, generally speaking, an asset will beconsidered uncollectible no later than when all efforts at collection have been exhausted. Subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to the ACL when received. We measure expected credit losses of financial assets on a collective (pool) basis, when the financial assets share similar risk characteristics. Depending on thenature of the pool of financial assets with similar risk characteristics, we use loss-rate methods to estimate expected credit losses. Our methodologies for estimating theACL consider available relevant information about past events, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts. The methodologies apply historical lossinformation, adjusted for asset-specific characteristics, economic conditions at the measurement date, and forecasts about future economic conditions expected to existthrough the contractual lives of the financial assets that are reasonable and supportable, to the identified pools of financial assets with similar risk characteristics forwhich the historical loss experience was observed.  Loans that do not share risk characteristics are evaluated on an individual basis. For collateral dependent financial assets where we have determined thatforeclosure of the collateral is probable, or where the borrower is experiencing financial difficulty and we expect repayment of the financial asset to be from the sale ofthe collateral, expected credit losses are calculated as the amount by which the amortized costs basis of the financial asset exceeds the fair value of the underlyingcollateral less estimated cost to sell. The ACL may be zero if the fair value of the collateral at the measurement date exceeds the amortized cost basis of the financialasset. We are subject to environmental liability risk associated with lending activities. A significant portion of our loan portfolio is secured by real estate, and we could become subject to environmental liabilities with respect to one or more ofthese properties. During the ordinary course of business, we may foreclose on and take title to properties securing defaulted loans. In doing so, there is a risk thathazardous or toxic substances could be found on these properties. If hazardous conditions or toxic substances are found on these properties, we may be liable forremediation costs, as well as for personal injury and property damage, civil fines and criminal penalties regardless of when the hazardous conditions or toxic substancesfirst affected any particular property. Environmental laws may require us to incur substantial expenses to address unknown liabilities and may materially reduce theaffected property’s value or limit our ability to use or sell the affected property. In addition, future laws or regulations, or more stringent interpretations or enforcementpolicies with respect to existing laws and regulations may increase our exposure to environmental liability, and heightened pressure from investors and otherstakeholders may require us to incur additional expenses with respect to environmental matters. Although we have policies and procedures to perform an environmentalreview before initiating any foreclosure action on nonresidential real property, these reviews may not be sufficient to detect all potential environmental hazards. Theremediation costs and any other financial liabilities associated with an environmental hazard could have a material adverse effect on us. - 31 -  Risks Related to Operational Matters We rely heavily on certificates of deposit, which has increased our cost of funds and could continue to do so in the future. Our reliance on certificates of deposit to fund our operations has resulted in a higher cost of funds than would otherwise be the case if we had a higherpercentage of demand deposits, savings deposits and money market accounts. In addition, if our certificates of deposit do not remain with us, we may be required toaccess other sources of funds, including loan sales, other types of deposits, including replacement certificates of deposit, securities sold under agreements torepurchase, advances from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago and other borrowings. Depending on market conditions, we may be required to pay higher rates onsuch deposits or other borrowings than we currently pay on our certificates of deposit. We may not be able to attract and retain skilled people. Our success depends, in large part, on our ability to attract and retain skilled people. Competition for the best people in most activities engaged in by us can beintense, and we may not be able to hire sufficiently skilled people or to retain them. The unexpected loss of services of one or more of our key personnel could have amaterial adverse impact on our business because of their skills, knowledge of our markets, years of industry experience, and the difficulty of promptly finding qualifiedreplacement personnel. Loss of key employees may disrupt relationships with certain customers. Our business is primarily relationship-driven in that many of our key employees have extensive customer relationships. Loss of a key employee with suchcustomer relationships may lead to the loss of business if the customers were to follow that employee to a competitor. While we believe our relationship with our keypersonnel is good, we cannot guarantee that all of our key personnel will remain with our organization. Loss of such key personnel, should they enter into anemployment relationship with one of our competitors, could result in the loss of some of our customers. Because the nature of the financial services business involves a high volume of transactions, we face significant operational risks. We operate in diverse markets and rely on the ability of our employees and systems to process a high number of transactions. Operational risk is the risk ofloss resulting from our operations, including but not limited to, the risk of fraud by employees or persons outside our company, the execution of unauthorizedtransactions by employees, errors relating to transaction processing and technology, breaches of the internal control system and compliance requirements, andbusiness continuation and disaster recovery. Insurance coverage may not be available for such losses, or where available, such losses may exceed insurance limits. Thisrisk of loss also includes the potential legal actions that could arise as a result of an operational deficiency or as a result of noncompliance with applicable regulatorystandards, adverse business decisions or their implementation, and customer attrition due to potential negative publicity. In the event of a breakdown in the internalcontrol system, improper operation of systems or improper employee actions, we could suffer financial loss, face regulatory action, and suffer damage to our reputation. Risks associated with system failures, interruptions, or breaches of cybersecurity could negatively affect our earnings. Information technology systems are critical to our business. We use various technology systems to manage our customer relationships, general ledger,securities investments, deposits and loans. We have established policies and procedures to prevent or limit the effect of system failures, interruptions, and securitybreaches, but such events may still occur or may not be adequately addressed if they do occur. Although we take numerous protective measures and otherwiseendeavor to protect and maintain the privacy and security of confidential data, these systems may be vulnerable to unauthorized access, computer viruses, othermalicious code, cyber-attacks, cyber-theft and other events that could have a security impact. If one or more of such events were to occur, this potentially couldjeopardize confidential and other information processed and stored in, and transmitted through, our systems or otherwise cause interruptions or malfunctions in our orour customers' operations. In addition, we outsource a majority of our data processing to certain third-party providers. If these third-party providers encounter difficulties, or if we havedifficulty communicating with them, our ability to adequately process and account for transactions could be affected, and our business operations could be adverselyaffected. Threats to information security also exist in the processing of customer information through various other vendors and their personnel. The occurrence of any system failures, interruption, or breach of security could damage our reputation and result in a loss of customers and business, subjectus to additional regulatory scrutiny, or expose us to litigation and possible financial liability. We may be required to expend significant additional resources to modifyour protective measures or to investigate and remediate vulnerabilities or other exposures, and we may be subject to litigation and financial losses that are not fullycovered by our insurance. Any of these events could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. Our risk management framework may not be effective in mitigating risk and reducing the potential for significant losses. Our risk management framework is designed to minimize risk and loss to us. We seek to identify, measure, monitor, report and control our exposure to risk,including strategic, market, liquidity, compliance and operational risks. While we use a broad and diversified set of risk monitoring and mitigation techniques, thesetechniques are inherently limited because they cannot anticipate the existence or future development of currently unanticipated or unknown risks. Recent economicconditions and heightened legislative and regulatory scrutiny of the financial services industry, among other developments, have increased our level of risk.Accordingly, we could suffer losses as a result of our failure to properly anticipate and manage these risks. - 32 -  Our business may be adversely affected by an increasing prevalence of fraud and other financial crimes. Our loans to businesses and individuals and our deposit relationships and related transactions are subject to exposure to the risk of loss due to fraud and otherfinancial crimes.  We have experienced losses due to apparent fraud and other financial crimes.  While we have policies and procedures designed to prevent such losses,losses may still occur. Our board of directors relies to a large degree on management and outside consultants in overseeing cybersecurity risk management. The Bank has an Information Technology Committee, consisting of the President, Chief Retail Officer, Chief Information Officer, Chief Financial Officer and stafffrom other departments within our organization.  The committee meets quarterly, or more frequently if needed, and reports to the board of directors after each meetingthrough committee minutes.  We also engage outside consultants to support its cybersecurity efforts.  Our directors do not have significant experience in cybersecurityrisk management in other business entities comparable to the Bank and rely on the President and Chief Information Officer for cybersecurity guidance. Our funding sources may prove insufficient to replace deposits at maturity and support our future growth. We must maintain sufficient funds to respond to the needs of depositors and borrowers.  As a part of our liquidity management, we use a number of fundingsources in addition to core deposit growth and repayments and maturities of loans and investments.  As we continue to grow, we are likely to become more dependenton these sources, which may include Federal Home Loan Bank advances, proceeds from the sale of loans, federal funds purchased and brokered certificates of deposit. Adverse operating results or changes in industry conditions could lead to difficulty or an inability to access these additional funding sources.  Our financial flexibilitywill be severely constrained if we are unable to maintain our access to funding or if adequate financing is not available to accommodate future growth at acceptableinterest rates.  If we are required to rely more heavily on more expensive funding sources to support future growth, our revenues may not increase proportionately tointerest rates.  If we are required to rely more heavily on more expensive funding sources to support future growth, our revenues may not increase proportionately tocover our costs.  In this case, our operating margins and profitability would be adversely affected. Risks Related to Competitive Matters Consumers may decide to use alternative options to complete financial transactions. Technology is allowing parties to complete financial transactions through alternative methods that historically have involved banks. Consumers can now easilyaccess historically banking needs through online banking accounts, brokerage accounts, mutual funds or general-purpose reloadable prepaid cards. Consumers canalso complete certain transactions without the assistance of banks. The removal of banking with financial transactions could result in the loss of customer loans, customer deposits, and the related fee income generated fromthose loans and deposits. The loss of these revenue streams and the lower cost of deposits as a source of funds could have a material adverse effect on our financialcondition and results of operations. Strong competition within our market areas may limit our growth and profitability. Competition in the banking and financial services industry is intense.  In our market areas, we compete with commercial banks, savings institutions, mortgagebrokerage firms, credit unions, finance companies, mutual funds, money market funds, insurance companies, and brokerage firms operating locally and elsewhere.  Someof our competitors have greater name recognition and market presence and offer certain services that we do not or cannot provide, all of which benefit them in attractingbusiness.  In addition, larger competitors may be able to price loans and deposits more aggressively than we do. Competitive factors driven by consumer sentiment orotherwise can also reduce our ability to generate fee income, such as through overdraft fees. Risks Related to Mortgage Banking Operations Secondary mortgage market conditions could have a material impact on our financial condition and results of operations. Our mortgage banking operations provide a significant portion of our non-interest income. In addition to being affected by interest rates, the secondarymortgage markets are also subject to investor demand for residential mortgage loans and increased investor yield requirements for these loans.  These conditions mayfluctuate or worsen in the future.  In light of current conditions, there is greater risk in retaining mortgage loans pending their sale to investors.  We believe our ability toretain fixed-rate residential mortgage loans is limited.  As a result, a prolonged period of secondary market illiquidity may reduce our loan production volumes and couldhave a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. Changes in the programs offered by secondary market purchasers or our ability to qualify for their programs may reduce our mortgage banking revenues, whichwould negatively impact our non-interest income. We generate mortgage revenues primarily from gains on the sale of single-family mortgage loans pursuant to programs currently offered by Fannie Mae,Freddie Mac, Ginnie Mae and non-GSE investors.  These entities account for a substantial portion of the secondary market in residential mortgage loans.  Any futurechanges in these programs, our eligibility to participate in such programs, the criteria for loans to be accepted or laws that significantly affect the activity of such entitiescould, in turn, materially adversely affect our results of operations. If we are required to repurchase mortgage loans that we have previously sold, it could negatively affect our earnings. One of our primary business operations is our mortgage banking, which involves originating residential mortgage loans for sale in the secondary market underagreements that contain representations and warranties related to, among other things, the origination and characteristics of the mortgage loans.  We may be required torepurchase mortgage loans that we have sold in cases of borrower default or breaches of these representations and warranties. If we are required to repurchasemortgage loans or provide indemnification or other recourse, this could increase our costs and thereby affect our future earnings. - 33 -  Risks Related to Environmental and Other Global Matters Societal responses to climate change could adversely affect our business and performance, including indirectly through impacts on our customers. Concerns over the long-term impacts of climate change have led and will continue to lead to governmental efforts around the world to mitigate those impacts.Consumers and businesses also may change their behavior on their own as a result of these concerns. We and our customers will need to respond to new laws andregulations as well as consumer and business preferences resulting from climate change concerns. We and our customers may face cost increases, asset valuereductions, operating process changes and other issues. The impact on our customers will likely vary depending on their specific attributes, including reliance on androle in carbon intensive activities. Among the impacts to us could be a drop in demand for our products and services, particularly in certain sectors. In addition, wecould face reductions in creditworthiness on the part of some customers or in the value of asset securing loans. Our efforts to take these risks into account in makinglending and other decisions, including by increasing our business with climate-friendly companies, may not be effective in protecting us from the negative impact ofnew laws and regulations or changes in consumer or business behavior. Our business, financial condition, and results of operations could be adversely affected by natural disasters, health epidemics, and other catastrophic events. We could be adversely affected if key personnel or a significant number of employees were to become unavailable due to a pandemic, natural disaster, war,act of terrorism, accident, or other reason. Any of these events could result in the temporary reduction of operations, employees, and customers, which could limit ourability to provide services. Additionally, many of our borrowers may suffer property damage, experience interruption of their businesses or lose their jobs after suchevents. Those borrowers might not be able to repay their loans, and the collateral for such loans may decline significantly in value. Risks Related to Accounting Matters Changes in our accounting policies or in accounting standards could materially affect how we report our financial condition and results of operations. Our accounting policies are essential to understanding our financial condition and results of operations. Some of these policies require the use of estimates andassumptions that may affect the value of our assets or liabilities and financial results. Some of our accounting policies are critical because they require management tomake difficult, subjective, and complex judgments about matters that are inherently uncertain, and because it is likely that materially different amounts would be reportedunder different conditions or using different assumptions. If such estimates or assumptions underlying our financial statements are incorrect, we may experience materiallosses. From time to time, the Financial Accounting Standards Board and the Securities and Exchange Commission change the financial accounting and reportingstandards or the interpretation of those standards that govern the preparation of our consolidated financial statements. These changes are beyond our control, can behard to predict and could materially affect how we report our consolidated financial condition and consolidated results of operations. We could also be required to applya new or revised standard retroactively, which may result in our restating our prior period consolidated financial statements. The need to account for certain assets at estimated fair value may adversely affect our results of operations. We report certain assets, such as loans held for sale, at estimated fair value.  Generally, for assets that are reported at fair value, we use quoted market prices orvaluation models that utilize observable market inputs to estimate fair value.  Because we carry these assets on our books at their estimated fair value, we may incurlosses even if the asset in question presents minimal credit risk. - 34 -  Other Risks Related to Our Business Legal and regulatory proceedings and related matters could adversely affect us or the financial services industry in general. We, and other participants in the financial services industry upon whom we rely to operate, have been and may in the future become involved in legal andregulatory proceedings.  Most of the proceedings we consider to be in the normal course of our business or typical for the industry; however, it is inherently difficult toassess the outcome of these matters, and other participants in the financial services industry or we may not prevail in any proceeding or litigation. Any litigation or regulatory proceeding could entail substantial costs and divert management’s attention away from our operations, and any adversedetermination could have a materially adverse effect on our business, brand or image, or our financial condition and results of our operations. Changes in the valuation of our securities portfolio could adversely affect our profits. Our securities portfolio may be impacted by fluctuations in fair value, potentially reducing accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) and/or earnings. Fluctuations in fair value may be caused by changes in market interest rates, lower market prices for securities and limited investor demand.  Management evaluatessecurities for credit impairment on a monthly basis, with more frequent evaluation for selected issues.  In analyzing a debt issuer’s financial condition, managementconsiders whether the securities are issued by the federal government or its agencies, whether downgrades by bond rating agencies have occurred, industry analysts’reports and, to a lesser extent given the relatively insignificant levels of depreciation in our debt portfolio, spread differentials between the effective rates on instrumentsin the portfolio compared to risk-free rates.  In analyzing an equity issuer’s financial condition, management considers industry analysts’ reports, financial performanceand projected target prices of investment analysts within a one-year time frame.  If this evaluation shows impairment to the actual or projected cash flows associatedwith one or more securities, a potential loss to earnings may occur.  Changes in interest rates can also have an adverse effect on our financial condition, as our available-for-sale securities are reported at their estimated fair value, and therefore are impacted by fluctuations in interest rates.  We increase or decrease our stockholders’ equityby the amount of change in the estimated fair value of the available-for-sale securities, net of taxes.  The declines in fair value could result in a material adverse effect onour capital levels.  New lines of business or new products and services may subject us to additional risks. From time to time, we may implement new lines of business or offer new products and services within existing lines of business. In addition, we will continue tomake investments in research, development, and marketing for new products and services. There are substantial risks and uncertainties associated with these efforts,particularly in instances where the markets are not fully developed. In developing and marketing new lines of business and/or new products and services we may investsignificant time and resources. Initial timetables for the development and introduction of new lines of business and/or new products or services may not be achievedand price and profitability targets may not prove feasible. Furthermore, if customers do not perceive our new offerings as providing significant value, they may fail toaccept our new products and services.  External factors, such as compliance with regulations, competitive alternatives, and shifting market preferences, may also impactthe successful implementation of a new line of business or a new product or service. Furthermore, the burden on management and our information technology ofintroducing any new line of business and/or new product or service could have a significant impact on the effectiveness of our system of internal controls. Failure tosuccessfully manage these risks in the development and implementation of new lines of business or new products or services could have a material adverse effect onour business, financial condition and results of operations. A lack of liquidity could adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations. Liquidity is essential to our business. We rely on our ability to generate deposits and effectively manage the repayment of our liabilities to ensure that thereis adequate liquidity to fund operations. An inability to raise funds through deposits, borrowings, the sale and maturities of loans and securities and other sourcescould have a substantial negative effect on liquidity. Our most important source of funds is our deposits. Deposit balances can decrease when customers perceivealternative investments as providing a better risk adjusted return, which are strongly influenced by such external factors as the direction of interest rates, local andnational economic conditions and the availability and attractiveness of alternative investments. Further, the demand for deposits may be reduced due to a variety offactors such as negative trends in the banking sector, the level of and/or composition of our uninsured deposits, demographic patterns, changes in customerpreferences, reductions in consumers’ disposable income, the monetary policy of the FRB or regulatory actions that decrease customer access to particular products.If customers move money out of bank deposits and into other investments such as money market funds, we would lose a relatively low-cost source of funds, whichwould increase our funding costs and reduce net interest income. Any changes made to the rates offered on deposits to remain competitive with other financialinstitutions may also adversely affect profitability and liquidity. Other primary sources of funds consist of cash flows from operations, maturities and sales ofinvestment securities and/or loans, brokered deposits, borrowings from the FHLB and/or FRB discount window, and unsecured borrowings. We also may borrowfunds from third-party lenders, such as other financial institutions. Our access to funding sources in amounts adequate to finance or capitalize our activities, or onterms that are acceptable, could be impaired by factors that affect us directly or the financial services industry or economy in general, such as disruptions in thefinancial markets or negative views and expectations about the prospects for the financial services industry, a decrease in the level of our business activity as a resultof a downturn in markets or by one or more adverse regulatory actions against us or the financial sector in general. Any decline in available funding could adverselyimpact our ability to originate loans, invest in securities, meet expenses, or to fulfill obligations such as meeting deposit withdrawal demands, any of which could havea material adverse impact on our liquidity, business, financial condition and results of operations. Increasing scrutiny and evolving expectations from customers, regulators, investors, and other stakeholders with respect to our environmental, social andgovernance practices may impose additional costs on us or expose us to new or additional risks. Companies are facing increasing scrutiny from customers, regulators, investors, and other stakeholders related to their environmental, social and governance(“ESG”) practices and disclosure. Investor advocacy groups, investment funds and influential investors are also increasingly focused on these practices, especially asthey relate to the environment, health and safety, diversity, labor conditions and human rights. Increased ESG related compliance costs could result in increases to ouroverall operational costs. Failure to adapt to or comply with regulatory requirements or investor or stakeholder expectations and standards could negatively impact ourreputation, ability to do business with certain partners, and our stock price. New government regulations could also result in new or more stringent forms of ESGoversight and expanding mandatory and voluntary reporting, diligence, and disclosure. - 35 -  Acquisitions may disrupt our business and dilute stockholder value. We regularly evaluate merger and acquisition opportunities with other financial institutions and financial services companies. As a result, negotiations maytake place and future mergers or acquisitions involving cash, debt, or equity securities may occur at any time. We would seek acquisition partners that offer us eithersignificant market presence or the potential to expand our market footprint and improve profitability through economies of scale or expanded services. Acquiring other banks, businesses, or branches may have an adverse effect on our financial results and may involve various other risks commonly associatedwith acquisitions, including, among other things:  •difficulty in estimating the value of the target company;  •payment of a premium over book and market values that may dilute our tangible book value and earnings per share in the short and long term;  •potential exposure to unknown or contingent tax or other liabilities of the target company;  •exposure to potential asset quality problems of the target company;  •potential volatility in reported income associated with goodwill impairment losses;  •difficulty and expense of integrating the operations and personnel of the target company;  •inability to realize the expected revenue increases, cost savings, increases in geographic or product presence, and/or other projected benefits;  •potential disruption to our business;  •potential diversion of our management’s time and attention;  •the possible loss of key employees and customers of the target company; and  •potential changes in banking or tax laws or regulations that may affect the target company. Various factors may make takeover attempts more difficult to achieve. Our articles of incorporation and bylaws, federal regulations, Maryland law, shares of restricted stock and stock options that we have granted or may grant toemployees and directors and stock ownership by our management and directors, and various other factors may make it more difficult for companies or persons toacquire control of Waterstone Financial without the consent of our board of directors.  A shareholder may want a takeover attempt to succeed because, for example, apotential acquiror could offer a premium over the then prevailing price of our common stock. Potential downgrades of U.S. government securities by one or more of the credit ratings agencies could have a material adverse effect on our operations, earnings andfinancial condition. A possible future downgrade of the sovereign credit ratings of the U.S. government and a decline in the perceived creditworthiness of U.S. government-relatedobligations could impact our ability to obtain funding that is collateralized by affected instruments, as well as affect the pricing of that funding when it is available. Adowngrade may also adversely affect the market value of such instruments. We cannot predict if, when or how any changes to the credit ratings or perceivedcreditworthiness of these organizations will affect economic conditions. Such ratings actions could result in a significant adverse impact on us. Among other things, adowngrade in the U.S. government’s credit rating could adversely impact the value of our securities portfolio and may trigger requirements that we post additionalcollateral for trades relative to these securities. A downgrade of the sovereign credit ratings of the U.S. government or the credit ratings of related institutions, agenciesor instruments would significantly exacerbate the other risks to which we are subject and any related adverse effects on the business, financial condition and results ofoperations. Item 1B.   Unresolved Staff Comments None - 36 -  Item 1C.   Cybersecurity The Company recognizes the security of our banking operations is critical to protecting our customers, maintaining our reputation and preserving the value of theCompany. The Board of Directors, through the Information Technology Steering Committee (ITSC) and Compliance Risk Management Committee (CRMC), providesdirection and oversight of the risk management framework of the Company including cybersecurity risks. The ITSC and CRMC establish policies and procedures for themeasurement of the effectiveness and efficiency of information security controls related to both design and operations.  In general, the Company seeks to addresscybersecurity risks through a comprehensive, cross-functional approach that is focused on confidentiality, security and availability of the information that the Companycollects and stores by identifying, preventing, and mitigating cybersecurity threats and effectively responding to cyber threats when they occur. The Committees have the authority to conduct or authorize reviews into areas within its scope of responsibility, which is all items impacting information security. TheCommittees focus on the following:  •Promote effective information technology and information security governance. •Critically evaluate and assess the direction and progress of major IT-related projects, IT security decisions, IT priorities, and overall IT and IT securityperformance. •Review and approve significant IT and information security related policies, including annual changes. •Review and approve IT and information security risk assessments on an annual basis. •Discuss activities and requirements pertaining to the Information Security Program. •Oversee requirements of the Bank’s Vendor Management Policy, including processes for approving third-party providers including the financial condition,business resilience, and IT security position of third-parties. •Ensure risk assessments and New Vendor Relationship Information is completed for all vendor relationships. •Review and approve risk assessments for significant, critical vendor relationships on an annual basis. •Examine the Bank’s Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery Plan, including updates and testing. •Provide for comprehensive, effective, and, if required, independent audit coverage of IT risks and controls. •Analyze all regulatory examination reports and internal and external audit reports impacting information technology as well as any required responses and/orupdates. •Assess the performance of the Committee and the Committee’s role and responsibilities on an annual basis. •Identify, analyze, and determine strategic risk tolerance and/or mitigation direction for compliance risks identified as high and/or those with an increasing riskprofile. •Review all regulatory examination reports impacting compliance and/or risk as well as any required responses The Company leverages regular assessments to identify current and potential threats and vulnerabilities within the Company’s environment. Technical vulnerabilitiesare identified using automated vulnerability scanning tools, penetration testing, and system management tools, whereas non-technical vulnerabilities are identified viaprocess or procedural reviews. The Company conducts a variety of assessments throughout the year, both internally and through third parties. Vulnerability assessmentand penetration tests are performed to provide the Company with an unbiased view of its environment and controls. Vulnerabilities identified during these assessmentsare inventoried in a centralized tracking system and reported to management on a regular basis. A multi-step approach is applied to identify, report and remediate thesevulnerabilities, and the Company adjusts its information security policies, standards, processes and practices as necessary based on the information provided by theseassessments. The results of key assessments are reported in summary to the Board of Directors annually. The Board of Directors, through the ITSC and CRMC, provides direction and oversight of the enterprise-wide risk management framework of the Company, including themanagement of risks arising from cybersecurity threats. The Board of Directors review and approve the Information Security Policy. The Board of Directors receivesregular presentations which include updates on cybersecurity risks, including the threat environment, evolving standards, projects and initiatives, vulnerabilityassessments, third-party and independent reviews, technological trends and information security considerations arising with respect to the Company’s peers and thirdparties. The Board of Directors also receives information regarding any cybersecurity incident that meets established reporting thresholds, as well as ongoing updatesregarding any such incident until it has been addressed. On an annual basis, the full Board of Directors discusses the Company’s approach to cybersecurity riskmanagement with the Company’s President. The CIO works collaboratively across the Company to implement a program designed to protect the Company’s information systems from cybersecurity threats and topromptly respond to any cybersecurity incidents in accordance with the Company’s incident response and recovery plans including an assessment of the potentialmateriality of any cybersecurity incident. The CIO monitors the prevention, detection, mitigation and remediation of cybersecurity threats and incidents in real time, andreport such threats and incidents to the ITSC and CRMC.  Management, including the CIO, regularly reviews with the Board of Directors the Company’s cybersecurity programs, material cybersecurity risks and mitigationstrategies and provides updates on notable developments in the cybersecurity threat landscape. Additionally, management follows a risk-based escalation process tonotify the Board of Directors outside of the cycle of regular updates when an emerging risk or material issue is identified, such as a potentially significant cybersecuritythreat or incident. In 2023, we did not identify any cybersecurity threats or incidents that have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect the Company, including withrespect to our business strategy, results of operations, or financial condition. However, despite our efforts, we cannot eliminate all risks from cybersecurity threats orincidents, or provide assurances that we have not experienced an undetected cybersecurity threat or incident. To our knowledge, cybersecurity threats, including as aresult of any previous cybersecurity incidents, have not materially affected the Corporation, including its business strategy, results of operations or financial condition.With regard to the possible impact of future cybersecurity threats or incidents, see Item 1A, Risk Factors — Operational Risks.  - 37 -   Item 2.   Properties We operate from our corporate center, our 14 full-service banking offices, our drive-through office and 14 automated teller machines, located in Milwaukee,Washington and Waukesha Counties, Wisconsin. The net book value of our premises, land, equipment and leasehold improvements was $20.0 million at December 31,2023. The following table sets forth information with respect to our corporate center and our full-service banking offices as of December 31, 2023.  Corporate Center11200 West Plank CourtWauwatosa, Wisconsin 53226Wauwatosa7500 West State StreetWauwatosa, Wisconsin 53213Brookfield (1)17495 W Capitol Dr.Brookfield, Wisconsin 53045   Franklin/Hales Corners6555 South 108th StreetFranklin, Wisconsin 53132Germantown/Menomonee FallsW188N9820 Appleton AvenueGermantown, Wisconsin 53022Oak Creek6560 South 27th StreetOak Creek, Wisconsin 53154   Oconomowoc/Lake Country (1)1233 Corporate Center DriveOconomowoc, Wisconsin 53066Pewaukee1230 George Towne DrivePewaukee, Wisconsin 53072Waukesha/Brookfield21505 East Moreland Blvd.Waukesha, Wisconsin 53186   West Allis/Greenfield Avenue10101 West Greenfield AvenueWest Allis, Wisconsin 53214Fox Point/North Shore8607 North Port Washington RoadFox Point, Wisconsin 53217Greenfield/Loomis Road5000 West Loomis RoadGreenfield, Wisconsin  53220   West Allis/National Avenue10296 West National AvenueWest Allis, Wisconsin 53227Oak Creek/Howell Avenue8780 South Howell AvenueOak Creek, Wisconsin 53154Milwaukee/Oklahoma Avenue6801 West Oklahoma AvenueMilwaukee, Wisconsin 53219 (1)Leased property In addition to our banking offices, as of December 31, 2023, Waterstone Mortgage Corporation had 15 offices in Florida, nine offices in New Mexico, fouroffices in each of Arizona, Virginia, and Wisconsin, three offices in each of California, Maryland, New Hampshire, Oklahoma, and Texas two offices in each of Delaware,Idaho, Kansas, Minnesota, and South Carolina, and one office in each of Colorado, Connecticut, Iowa, Illinois, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, NewJersey, Rhode Island, and Tennessee. Item 3.   Legal Proceedings The information required by this item is set forth in Note 13 - Commitments, Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements, and Contingent Liabilities of the notes toconsolidated financial statements. Item 4.   Mine Safety Disclosures Not applicable. - 38 -   Part II Item 5.   Market for Registrant's Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchase of Equity Securities Our shares of common stock are traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market® under the symbol WSBF.  The approximate number of shareholders of recordof Waterstone common stock as of February 29, 2024 was 1,200.  On that same date there were 20,052,831 shares of common stock issued and outstanding. Following are the Company's monthly common stock repurchases during the fourth quarter of 2023. Period TotalNumber ofSharesPurchased  AveragePrice Paidper Share(b)  Total Number ofShares Purchasedas Part of PubliclyAnnounced Plans  MaximumNumber ofShares that MayYet BePurchased Underthe Plan(a) October 1, 2023 - October 31, 2023  283,078  $10.56   283,078   1,082,117 November 1, 2023 - November 30, 2023  175,700   11.82   175,700   906,417 December 1, 2023 - December 31, 2023  86,085   13.01   86,085   820,332 Total  544,863  $11.36   544,863   820,332  (a) On May 24, 2023, the Board of Directors announced the termination of the then-existing stock repurchase plan and authorized the repurchase of 2,000,000 shares ofcommon stock pursuant to a new share repurchase plan. This plan has no expiration date. (b) Includes 1% excise tax for repurchases greater than $1.0 million  - 39 -  PERFORMANCE GRAPH Set forth below is a line graph comparing the cumulative total shareholder return on Waterstone Financial common stock, based on the market price of thecommon stock and assuming reinvestment of cash dividends, with the cumulative total return of companies on the SNL Thrift NASDAQ Index and the Russell 2000. Thegraph assumes $100 was invested on December 31, 2018, in Waterstone Financial, Inc. common stock and each of those indices. Waterstone Financial, Inc.  Index 12/31/18  12/31/19  12/31/20  12/31/21  12/31/22  12/31/23 Waterstone Financial, Inc.  100.00   120.39   129.11   160.00   134.79   117.13 S&P Composite 1500 Thrifts & Mortgage Finance Index  100.00   136.13   122.09   168.88   132.75   131.57 Russell 2000 Index  100.00   125.53   150.58   172.90   137.56   160.85  Item 6.   [Reserved]  Item 7.   Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations Overview The following discussion and analysis is presented to assist the reader in understanding and evaluating the Company's financial condition and results ofoperations. It is intended to complement the consolidated financial statements, footnotes, and supplemental financial data appearing elsewhere in this Annual Report onForm 10-K and should be read in conjunction therewith. The detailed discussion in the sections below focuses on the results of operations for the year ended December31, 2023, compared to the year ended December 2022, and the financial condition as of December 31, 2023 compared to the financial condition as of December 31, 2022. - 40 -  As described in the notes to consolidated financial statements, we have two reportable segments: community banking and mortgage banking. The communitybanking segment provides consumer and business banking products and services to customers. Consumer products include loan products, deposit products, andpersonal investment services. Business banking products include loans for working capital, inventory and general corporate use, commercial real estate constructionloans, and deposit accounts.  The mortgage banking segment, which is conducted through Waterstone Mortgage Corporation, consists of originating residentialmortgage loans primarily for sale in the secondary market. Our community banking segment generates the significant majority of our consolidated net interest income and requires the significant majority of ourprovision for credit losses.  Our mortgage banking segment generates the significant majority of our noninterest income and a majority of our noninterest expenses.  Wehave provided below a discussion of the material results of operations for each segment on a separate basis for the year ended December 31, 2023, compared the yearended December 31, 2022, which focuses on noninterest income and noninterest expenses. We have also provided a discussion of the consolidated operations ofWaterstone Financial, which includes the consolidated operations of WaterStone Bank and Waterstone Mortgage Corporation, for the same periods. For a discussion of our results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2022 compared to the year ended December 31, 2021, see “Part II, Item 7:Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” Discussion of Results of Operations included in our 2022 Form 10-K, filedwith the SEC on February 28, 2023. Significant Items There were no Significant Items for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022.  - 41 -  Critical Accounting Policies Our consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with GAAP and follow general practices within the banking industry. Application of theseprinciples requires management to make complex and subjective estimates and judgments that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements andaccompanying notes. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable and appropriate under currentcircumstances. These assumptions form the basis for our judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily available from independent,objective sources. We evaluate our estimates on an ongoing basis. Use of alternative assumptions may have resulted in significantly different estimates. Actual resultsmay differ from these estimates. Accounting policies are an integral part of our financial statements. A thorough understanding of these accounting policies is essential when reviewing ourreported results of operations and our financial position. We believe that the critical accounting policies and estimates discussed below involve a heightened level ofmanagement judgment due to the complexity, subjectivity and sensitivity involved in their application. See Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies to the consolidated financial statements contains a further discussion of our significant accountingpolicies. Critical accounting policies are those that involve significant judgments and assumptions by management and that have, or could have, a material impact onour income or the carrying value of our assets. Allowance for Credit Losses. The ACL represents management's estimate of current expected credit losses, or the amount of amortized cost basis not expectedto be collected, on our loan portfolio and the amount of credit loss impairment on our AFS securities portfolio. Determining the amount of the ACL is considered acritical accounting estimate because of its complexity and because it requires extensive judgment and estimation. Estimates that are particularly susceptible to changethat may have a material impact on the amount of the ACL include:  ●Our evaluation of current conditions; ●Our assessment that the physical condition of the real estate has not significantly changed since the last valuation date; ●Our determination of a reasonable and supportable economic forecast and selection of the reasonable and supportable forecast period; ●Our evaluation of historical loss experience; ●Our evaluation of changes in composition and characteristics of the loan portfolio, including internal risk ratings; ●Our estimate of expected prepayments; ●Our selection of models and modeling techniques may also have a material impact on the estimate; ●The value of underlying collateral, which may impact loss severity and certain cash flow assumptions for collateral-dependent, criticized and classifiedloans; ●Our selection and evaluation of qualitative factors; and ●Our estimate of expected cash flows on AFS debt securities in unrealized loss positions. The appropriateness of the allowance for credit losses is reviewed and approved quarterly by the WaterStone Bank Board of Directors. The allowance reflectsmanagement’s best estimate of the amount needed to provide for the future losses over the life of the loan portfolio, and is based on a loss model using a forecast andhistorical losses developed and implemented by management and approved by the WaterStone Bank Board of Directors. Actual results could differ from this estimate, and future additions to the allowance may be necessary based on unforeseen changes in loan quality andeconomic conditions.  More specifically, if our future charge-off experience increases substantially from our past experience, or if the value of underlying loan collateral,in our case mostly real estate, declines in value by a substantial amount, or if unemployment in our primary market area increases significantly, our allowance forcredit losses may be inadequate and we will incur higher provisions for loan losses and lower net income in the future. See Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies to the consolidated financial statements describes the methodology used to determine the ACL. - 42 -  In addition, state and federal regulators periodically review the WaterStone Bank allowance for credit losses. Such regulators have the authority to requireWaterStone Bank to recognize additions to the allowance at the time of their examination. Income Taxes.  The Company and its subsidiaries file consolidated federal, combined state income tax, and separate state income tax returns. The provision forincome taxes is based upon income in the consolidated financial statements, rather than amounts reported on the income tax return.  Deferred tax assets and liabilities arerecognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and theirrespective tax bases as well as for net operating loss carry forwards.  Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxableincome in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled.  The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax ratesis recognized as income or expense in the period that includes the enactment date.   Under generally accepted accounting principles, a valuation allowance is required to be recognized if it is “more likely than not” that a deferred tax asset willnot be realized.  The determination of the realizability of deferred tax assets is highly subjective and dependent upon judgment concerning management's evaluation ofboth positive and negative evidence, the forecasts of future income, applicable tax planning strategies, and assessments of current and future economic and businessconditions. Examples of positive evidence may include the existence of taxes paid in available carry-back years as well as the probability that taxable income will begenerated in future periods.  Examples of negative evidence may include cumulative losses in a current year and prior two years and general business and economictrends. Positions taken in the Company’s tax returns are subject to challenge by the taxing authorities upon examination. The benefit of uncertain tax positions areinitially recognized in the financial statements only when it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon examination by the tax authorities. Such taxpositions are both initially and subsequently measured as the largest amount of tax benefit that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon settlement withthe tax authority, assuming full knowledge of the position and all relevant facts. Interest and penalties on income tax uncertainties are classified within income taxexpense in the consolidated statements of operations. Fair Value Measurements.  The Company determines the fair value of its assets and liabilities in accordance with ASC 820. ASC 820 establishes a standardframework for measuring and disclosing fair value under generally accepted accounting principles. A number of valuation techniques are used to determine the fair valueof assets and liabilities in the Company’s financial statements. The valuation techniques include quoted market prices for investment securities, appraisals of real estatefrom independent licensed appraisers and other valuation techniques. Fair value measurements for assets and liabilities where limited or no observable market dataexists are based primarily upon estimates, and are often calculated based on the economic and competitive environment, the characteristics of the asset or liability andother factors. Therefore, the valuation results cannot be determined with precision and may not be realized in an actual sale or immediate settlement of the asset orliability. Additionally, there are inherent weaknesses in any calculation technique, and changes in the underlying assumptions used, including discount rates andestimates of future cash flows, could significantly affect the results of current or future values. Significant changes in the aggregate fair value of assets and liabilitiesrequired to be measured at fair value or for impairment are recognized in the consolidated statements of operations under the framework established by generallyaccepted accounting principles. Recent Accounting Pronouncements. Refer to Note 1- Summary of Significant Accounting Policies of our consolidated financial statements for a description of recent accounting pronouncementsincluding the respective dates of adoption and effects on results of operations and financial condition. - 43 -  Selected Financial Data The summary financial information presented below is derived in part from the Company’s audited financial statements, although the table itself is not audited.   At or for the Year Ended December 31,   2023  2022  2021   (In Thousands, except per share amounts) Selected Financial Condition Data:            Total assets $2,213,389  $2,031,672  $2,215,858 Cash and cash equivalents  36,421   46,642   376,722 Securities available for sale  204,907   196,588   179,016 Loans held for sale  164,993   131,188   312,738 Loans receivable  1,664,215   1,510,178   1,205,785 Allowance for credit losses (1)  18,549   17,757   15,778 Loans receivable, net  1,645,666   1,492,421   1,190,007 Real estate owned, net  254   145   148 Deposits  1,190,624   1,199,012   1,233,386 Borrowings  611,054   386,784   477,127 Total shareholders' equity  344,056   370,486   432,773              Selected Operating Data:            Interest income $99,208  $70,245  $69,883 Interest expense  48,993   13,291   14,368 Net interest income  50,215   56,954   55,515 Provision (credit) for credit losses (1)  656   968   (3,990)Net interest income after provision for credit losses (1)  49,559   55,986   59,505 Noninterest income  81,185   105,555   203,195 Noninterest expense  119,712   137,062   170,594 Income before income taxes  11,032   24,479   92,106 Provision for income taxes  1,657   4,992   21,315 Net income $9,375  $19,487  $70,791              Per common share:            Income per share - basic $0.47  $0.89  $2.98 Income per share - diluted $0.46  $0.89  $2.96 Book value $16.94  $16.71  $17.45 Dividends declared $0.70  $0.80  $1.80  (1) The Company adopted ASU 2016-13 as of January 1, 2022. The prior year amounts presented are calculated under the prior accounting standard.  - 44 -     At or for the Year Ended December 31,   2023  2022  2021 Selected Financial Ratios and Other Data:                         Performance Ratios:            Return on average assets  0.44%  0.96%  3.20%Return on average equity  2.62   4.91   16.38 Interest rate spread (1)  1.83   2.76   2.47 Net interest margin (2)  2.46   3.00   2.68 Noninterest expense to average assets  5.56   6.79   7.71 Efficiency ratio (3)  91.11   84.34   65.94 Average interest-earing assets to average interest-bearing liabilities  126.10   134.23   130.76 Dividend payout ratio (4)  148.94   146.07   43.62              Capital Ratios:            Waterstone Financial, Inc.:            Equity to total assets at end of period  15.54%  18.24%  19.53%Average equity to average assets  16.64   19.66   19.53 Total capital to risk-weighted assets  21.50   24.36   29.01 Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets  20.39   23.29   27.99 Common equity tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets  20.39   23.29   27.99 Tier 1 capital to average assets  16.77   19.45   19.29 WaterStone Bank:            Total capital to risk-weighted assets  20.10   21.52   25.52 Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets  18.99   20.46   24.50 Common equity tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets  18.99   20.46   24.50 Tier 1 capital to average assets  15.62   17.08   16.88              Asset Quality Ratios:            Allowance for credit losses - loans as a percent of total loans (5)  1.11%  1.18%  1.31%Allowance for credit losses - loans as a percent of non-performing loans (5)  385.79   412.28   283.06 Net chargeoffs (recoveries) to average outstanding loans during the period  0.01   (0.04)  (0.07)Non-performing loans as a percent of total loans  0.29   0.29   0.46 Non-performing assets as a percent of total assets  0.23   0.22   0.26              Other Data:            Number of full-service banking offices  14   14   14 Number of full-time equivalent employees  698   742   870 (1)  Represents the difference between the weighted average yield on average interest-earning assets and the weighted average cost of interest-bearing liabilities.(2)  Represents net interest income as a percent of average interest-earning assets.(3)  Represents noninterest expense divided by the sum of net interest income and noninterest income.(4)  Represents dividends paid per share divided by basic earnings per share.(5) The Company adopted ASU 2016-13 as of January 1, 2022. The 2021 amounts presented are calculated under the prior accounting standard.   Comparison of Consolidated Waterstone Financial, Inc. Financial Condition at December 31, 2023 and at December 31, 2022 Total Assets.  Total assets increased by $181.7 million, or 8.9%, to $2.21 billion at December 31, 2023 from $2.03 billion at December 31, 2022.  The increase intotal assets primarily reflects increases in loans held for investment and loans held for sale, partially offset by decreases cash and cash equivalents, office properties andequipment, and other assets. The increase in total assets also reflects liability increases in borrowings. Cash and Cash Equivalents.  Cash and cash equivalents decreased $10.2 million to $36.4 million at December 31, 2023 from $46.6 million at December 31, 2022. The decrease in cash and cash equivalents primarily reflects the funding of loans held for sale, loans held for investment, and securities available for sale as well as thedecrease of funding sources from deposits. Securities Available for Sale. Securities available for sale increased by $8.3 million to $204.9 million at December 31, 2023 from $196.6 million at December 31,2022. The increase was primarily due to purchases of mortgage-related securities to take advantage of the increase in interest rates. The increase was also driven by adecrease in unrealized losses as the values of securities increased due to a decrease in long term interest rates. Purchases for the year exceeded the combination ofsecurity paydowns and maturities of debt securities.  Loans Held for Sale.  Loans held for sale increased $33.8 million, or 25.8%, to $165.0 million at December 31, 2023 from $131.2 million at December 31, 2022 dueto a decrease in mortgage rates at the end of the year. - 45 -  Loans Receivable.  Loans receivable held for investment increased $154.0 million, or 10.2%, to $1.66 billion at December 31, 2023 from $1.51 billion at December31, 2022. The increase in total loans receivable was attributable to increases in each of the one- to four-family, multi-family, commercial, and commercial real estate loancategories. Allowance for Credit Losses.  The allowance for credit losses increased $792,000 to $18.5 million at December 31, 2023 from $17.8 million at December 31, 2022. The increase primarily resulted from the increase in the total loan balances. Net charge-offs totaled $135,000 for the year ended December 31, 2023. During the yearended December 31, 2023, we made adjustments to our qualitative factors, primarily to account for the changes in internal metrics and external risk factors. See Note 3 -Loans Receivable of the notes to consolidated financial statements for further discussion on the allowance for credit losses. The forecast factor remained unchanged aswe monitor the economic environment going forward.  Prepaid Expenses and Other Assets.  Total prepaid expenses and other assets decreased $7.4 million to $52.4 million at December 31, 2023 from $59.8 million atDecember 31, 2022. The decrease was primarily due to a decrease in the fair value mark on derivatives as interest rates decreased and deferred taxes decreased asunrealized losses on available for sale securities decreased due to falling long-term interest rates.   Deposits.  Deposits decreased by $8.4 million to $1.19 billion at December 31, 2023, from $1.20 billion at December 31, 2022. The decrease was driven by adecrease of $52.9 million in money market and savings deposits and a decrease of $43.5 million in demand deposits. The decrease was partially offset by an increaseof $88.0 million in time deposits as customers sought higher rates in the current interest rate environment. Borrowings.  Total borrowings increased $224.3 million to $611.1 million at December 31, 2023, from $386.8 million at December 31, 2022. The community bankingsegment increased its short-term FHLB borrowings by $123.3 million offset by a decrease of its long-term FHLB borrowings by $45.0 million. In addition, we borrowed$145.0 million from the Federal Reserve Bank, all of which was incremental to 2022. External short-term borrowings at the mortgage banking segment increased a total of$1.0 million to $2.1 million at December 31, 2023 from $1.1 million at December 31, 2022. The increase in borrowings was used to fund the increase in loans held forinvestment. Other Liabilities.  Other liabilities decreased $9.0 million to $61.0 million at December 31, 2023 compared to $70.1 million at December 31, 2022. Other liabilitiesdecreased primarily due to a decrease of the fair value mark on derivative liabilities related to the loans held for sale and the back-to-back swaps decreased with thedecrease in interest rates and a decrease in dividends payable as fourth-quarter dividends per share decreased to $0.15 in 2023 from $0.20 in 2022. Shareholders’ Equity.  Shareholders’ equity decreased by $26.4 million, or 7.1%, to $344.1 million at December 31, 2023 from $370.5 million at December 31, 2022.Shareholders' equity decreased primarily due to the declaration of dividends and the repurchase of stock. Partially offsetting the decreases, there were increases due tothe net income, additional paid-in capital as stock options were exercised and equity awards vested, increases in the values of securities available for sale, and unearnedESOP shares vesting. Comparison of Community Banking Segment Operations for the Years Ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 Net income from our community banking segment for the year ended December 31, 2023 totaled $18.6 million compared to $22.8 million for the year endedDecember 31, 2022.  Net interest income decreased $4.9 million to $51.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2023 compared to $56.6 million for the year endedDecember 31, 2022. Interest income on loans increased as replacement rates and average loans held for investment balances were higher than in the prior year andinterest income on mortgage-related securities and debt securities, federal funds sold and short-term investments increased due to the increase in the average balanceand replacement rates. Offsetting the increases in interest income, interest expense on deposits and borrowings increased as replacement rates and average balancesincreased. There was a provision for credit losses of $441,000 for the year ended December 31, 2023 compared to a provision for credit losses of $677,000 for the yearended December 31, 2022. The provision for credit losses consisted of a $712,000 provision related to loans due to loan growth and a $271,000 of negative provisionrelated to unfunded commitments as the loan pipeline balance decreased for the year ended December 31, 2023. The provision for credit losses related to loans increasedprimarily due to loan growth in the portfolio. During the year ended December 31, 2023, we made adjustments to our qualitative factors, primarily to account for thechanges in internal metrics and external risk factors. The forecast factor remained unchanged as we monitor the economic environment going forward.  Noninterest income decreased $834,000 for the year ended December 31, 2023 due primarily to a decrease in prepayment penalties on loans and gain from deathbenefit received on one bank-owned life insurance policy during 2022. - 46 -  Compensation, payroll taxes, and other employee benefits expense increased $853,000 to $19.9 million during the year ended December 31, 2023 primarily due toan increase in salaries due to annual raises that took place at the beginning of the year and an increase in full-time equivalents due to fewer open positions.  Othernoninterest expense decreased $1.7 million to $3.9 million as certain loan-related expenses paid to the mortgage banking segment for the purchase of single-familyadjustable rate mortgage loans decreased compared to the prior year. These fees are eliminated in the consolidated statements of income. Comparison of Mortgage Banking Segment Operations for the Years Ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 Net loss totaled $9.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2023 compared to net loss of $3.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2022. We originated$2.12 billion in mortgage loans held for sale (including sales to the community banking segment) during the year ended December 31, 2023, which represents a decreaseof $641.8 million, or 23.2%, from the $2.76 billion originated during the year ended December 31, 2022. The decrease in loan production volume was driven by a $424.9million, or 17.3%, decrease in home purchase volume due to inventory constraints in the market, housing affordability, and as interest rates have increased. Totalmortgage banking noninterest income decreased $25.6 million, or 24.6%, to $78.5 million during the year ended December 31, 2023 compared to $104.1 million during theyear ended December 31, 2022. The decrease in mortgage banking noninterest income was related to a 23.2% decrease in volume and a 2.6% decrease in gross margin onloans originated and sold for the year ended December 31, 2023 compared to December 31, 2022.  Gross margin on loans originated and sold is the ratio of mortgagebanking income (excluding the change in interest rate lock fair value) divided by total loan originations. The gross margin on loans originated and sold contractionreflects decreased industry demand due to the increased competition from mortgage originators. We sell loans on both a servicing-released and a servicing-retainedbasis.  Waterstone Mortgage Corporation has contracted with a third party to service the loans for which we retain servicing.  Additionally, our overall margin can be affected by the mix of both loan type (conventional loans versus governmental) and loan purpose (purchase versusrefinance).  Conventional loans include loans that conform to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac standards, whereas governmental loans are those loans guaranteed by thefederal government, such as a Federal Housing Authority or U.S. Department of Agriculture loan. Our origination efforts continue to be focused on loans made for thepurpose of residential purchases, as opposed to mortgage refinance. The percentage of origination volume related to purchase activity increased to 96.0% from 89.1% oftotal originations for the year ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, as refinance demand decelerated due to an increase in interest rates over the past year.The mix of loan type trended towards more governmental loans and less conventional loans, with governmental loans and conventional loans comprising 41.0% and59.0%, respectively of all loan originations, respectively, during the year ended December 31, 2023, compared to 29.3% and 70.7% of all originations, respectively, duringthe year ended December 31, 2022. During the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company sold mortgage servicing rights related to $318.4 million in loans serviced for third parties. The salegenerated $3.5 million in net proceeds and a $583,000 gain. During the year ended December 31, 2022, there were no sales of mortgage servicing rights. Total compensation, payroll taxes and other employee benefits decreased $15.9 million, or 19.6%, to $65.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2023compared to $81.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2022. The decrease in compensation expense was primarily related to decreased commission expense andbranch manager compensation driven by decreased loan origination volume and branch profitability as gross margins decreased. Additionally, salaries expensedecreased due a reduction in headcount during the year ended December 31, 2023 compared to the year ended December 31, 2022.  Comparison of Consolidated Waterstone Financial, Inc. Results of Operations for the Years Ended December 31, 2023 and 2022   Years Ended December 31,   2023  2022   (Dollars In Thousands, except per shareamounts)          Net income $9,375  $19,487 Earnings per share - basic  0.47   0.89 Earnings per share - diluted  0.46   0.89 Return on average assets  0.44%  0.96%Return on average equity  2.62%  4.91% - 47 -  Average Balance Sheets, Interest and Yields/Costs The following table set forth average balance sheets, average yields and costs, and certain other information for the periods indicated.  Non-accrual loans wereincluded in the computation of the average balances of loans receivable and held for sale.  The yields set forth below include the effect of deferred fees, discounts andpremiums that are amortized or accreted to interest income or expense.  Yields on interest-earning assets are computed on a fully tax-equivalent yield, where applicable.   Years Ended December 31,   2023  2022  2021   AverageBalance  Interest  AverageRate  AverageBalance  Interest  AverageRate  AverageBalance  Interest  AverageRate   (Dollars in Thousands) Assets                                    Interest-earning assets:                                    Loans receivable and held for sale (1) $1,752,806   90,148   5.14% $1,467,306   62,935   4.29% $1,600,115   64,366   4.02%Mortgage related securities (2)  172,318   4,053   2.35%  162,584   3,241   1.99%  103,324   1,954   1.89%Debt securities, federal funds sold and short-terminvestments (2)(3)  119,650   5,201   4.35%  269,171   4,271   1.59%  366,949   3,827   1.04%Total interest-earning assets  2,044,774   99,402   4.86%  1,899,061   70,447   3.71%  2,070,388   70,147   3.39%Noninterest-earning assets  106,532           120,744           142,040         Total assets $2,151,306          $2,019,805          $2,212,428                                              Liabilities and equity                                    Interest-bearing liabilities:                                    Demand accounts $80,143   82   0.10%  72,751   61   0.08%  64,653   50   0.08%Money market and savings accounts  309,119   4,529   1.47%  391,170   1,201   0.31%  363,930   904   0.25%Certificates of deposit  700,034   21,127   3.02%  602,332   3,601   0.60%  675,495   3,466   0.51%Total interest-bearing deposits  1,089,296   25,738   2.36%  1,066,253   4,863   0.46%  1,104,078   4,420   0.40%Borrowings  532,248   23,255   4.37%  348,482   8,428   2.42%  479,262   9,948   2.08%Total interest-bearing liabilities  1,621,544   48,993   3.02%  1,414,735   13,291   0.94%  1,583,340   14,368   0.91%                                     Noninterest-bearing liabilities                                    Non interest-bearing deposits  120,321           159,495           146,767         Other noninterest-bearing liabilities  51,439           48,500           50,140         Total noninterest-bearing liabilities  171,760           207,995           196,907         Total liabilities  1,793,304           1,622,730           1,780,247         Equity  358,002           397,075           432,181         Total liabilities and equity $2,151,306          $2,019,805          $2,212,428         Net interest income / Net interest rate spread (4)      50,409   1.84%      57,156   2.77%      55,779   2.48%Less: taxable equivalent adjustment      194   0.01%      202   0.01%      264   0.01%Net interest income, as reported      50,215   1.83%      56,954   2.76%      55,515   2.47%Net interest-earning assets (5) $423,230          $484,326          $487,048         Net interest margin (6)          2.46%          3.00%          2.68%Tax equivalent effect          0.01%          0.01%          0.01%Net interest margin on a fully tax equivalent basis          2.47%          3.01%          2.69%Average interest-earning assets to average interest-bearing liabilities  126.10%          134.23%          130.76%         (1)   Includes net deferred loan fee amortization income of $643,000, $684,000 and $2.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021, respectively.(2)   Includes available for sale securities.(3)   Interest income from tax exempt securities is computed on a taxable equivalent basis using a tax rate of 21% for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021. The yields on debt securities, federal funds sold and short-term investments before tax-equivalent adjustments were 4.18%, 1.51%, and 0.97% for the years endedDecember 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021, respectively.(4)   Net interest rate spread represents the difference between the yield on average interest-earning assets and the cost of average interest-bearing liabilities and ispresented on a fully tax equivalent basis.(5)   Net interest-earning assets represent total interest-earning assets less total interest-bearing liabilities.(6)   Net interest margin represents net interest income divided by average total interest-earning assets. - 48 -  Rate/Volume Analysis The following table sets forth the effects of changing rates and volumes on our net interest income for the periods indicated. The rate column shows the effectsattributable to changes in rate (changes in rate multiplied by prior volume). The volume column shows the effects attributable to changes in volume (changes in volumemultiplied by prior rate). The net column represents the sum of the prior columns. For purposes of this table, changes attributable to changes in both rate and volumethat cannot be segregated have been allocated proportionately based on the changes due to rate and the changes due to volume. There were no out-of-period items oradjustments for any of the years presented.   Years Ended December 31,  Years Ended December 31,   2023 versus 2022  2022 versus 2021   Increase (Decrease) due to  Increase (Decrease) due to   Volume  Rate  Net  Volume  Rate  Net   (In Thousands) Interest and dividend income:                        Loans receivable and held for sale (1)(2) $13,483  $13,730  $27,213  $(5,567) $4,136  $(1,431)Mortgage related securities (3)  202   610   812   1,190   97   1,287 Other interest-earning assets (3)(4)  (3,376)  4,306   930   (1,204)  1,648   444 Total interest-earning assets  10,309   18,646   28,955   (5,581)  5,881   300                          Interest expense:                        Demand accounts  6   15   21   11   -   11 Money market and savings accounts  (305)  3,633   3,328   71   226   297 Certificates of deposit  677   16,849   17,526   (214)  349   135 Total interest-bearing deposits  378   20,497   20,875   (132)  575   443 Borrowings  5,865   8,962   14,827   (3,790)  2,270   (1,520)Total interest-bearing liabilities  6,243   29,459   35,702   (3,922)  2,845   (1,077)Net change in net interest income $4,066  $(10,813) $(6,747) $(1,659) $3,036  $1,377  (1)Includes net deferred loan fee amortization income of $643,000, $684,000 and $2.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021, respectively.(2)Non-accrual loans have been included in average loans receivable balance.(3)Includes available for sale securities.(4)Interest income from tax exempt securities is computed on a taxable equivalent basis using a tax rate of 21% for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021. Net Interest Income Net interest income decreased $6.7 million, or 11.8%, to $50.2 million during the year ended December 31, 2023 compared to $57.0 million during the year endedDecember 31, 2022.  •Interest income on loans increased $27.2 million, or 43.2%, to $90.1 million during the year ended December 31, 2023 compared to $62.9 million during the yearended December 31, 2022 due primarily to an 85 basis point increase in average yield on loans as interest rates continued to increase over the past year and anincrease in average loan balance as loans held for investment increased. The increase in average loan balance was driven by an increase of a $307.2 million, or23.7%, in the average balance of loans held for investment offset by a decrease of $21.7 million, or 12.6%, in average loans held for sale. •Interest income from mortgage related securities increased $812,000, or 25.1%, primarily as the average balance increased $9.7 million and the yield increased by36 basis points. •Interest income from debt securities increased $938,000, or 23.1%, to $5.0 million, due primarily to a 267 basis point increase in yield. The increased yield waspartially offset by a decrease of $149.5 million in average balance. •Interest expense on time deposits increased $17.5 million, or 486.7%, primarily due to a 242 basis point increase in average cost of time deposits. Additionally,the average balance of time deposits increased $97.7 million compared to the prior year period. •Interest expense on money market, savings, and escrow accounts increased $3.3 million, or 277.1%, due primarily to a 116 basis point increase in average cost ofmoney market, savings, and escrow accounts as offering rates increased to match the Federal Funds Rate. Partially offsetting the increase in average cost, theaverage balance decreased $82.1 million as more money moved to time deposits. •Interest expense on borrowings increased $14.8 million, or 175.9%, to $23.3 million due to a 195 basis point increase in the cost of borrowings during the yearended December 31, 2023 compared to the year ended December 31, 2022 as the federal funds rate increased over the past year. Additionally, the averagebalance increased $183.8 million to $532.2 million during the year ended December 31, 2023, compared to $348.5 million during the year ended December 31,2022. - 49 -  Provision for Credit Losses There was a provision for credit losses of $656,000 during the year ended December 31, 2023 compared to a $968,000  provision for loan losses for the yearended December 31, 2022. The $656,000 provision for credit losses consisted of a $927,000 provision related to loans and $271,000 of negative provision related tounfunded commitments for the year ended December 31, 2023. The increase in the loan portfolio provision is due to the increase in loan balance and the decrease on theunfunded commitments is due to the decrease in the loan pipeline. During the year ended December 31, 2023, we made adjustments to our qualitative factors, primarily toaccount for the changes in internal metrics and external risk factors. The forecast factor remained unchanged as we monitor the economic environment going forward.  The provision is primarily a function of the Company's reserving methodology and assessments of certain quantitative and qualitative factors which are used todetermine an appropriate allowance for credit losses for the period.  See further discussion regarding the allowance for loan losses in the "Asset Quality" section for ananalysis of charge-offs, nonperforming assets, specific reserves and additional provisions and the "Allowance for Credit Loss" section. Noninterest Income   Years Ended December 31,   2023  2022  $ Change  % Change   (Dollars in Thousands)                  Service charges on loans and deposits $1,819  $2,202  $(383)  (17.4%)Increase in cash surrender value of life insurance  1,710   1,738   (28)  (1.6%)Mortgage banking income  75,686   99,560   (23,874)  (24.0%)Other  1,970   2,055   (85)  (4.1%)Total noninterest income $81,185  $105,555  $(24,370)  (23.1%) Total noninterest income decreased $24.4 million, or 23.1%, to $81.2 million during the year ended December 31, 2023 compared to $105.6 million during the yearended December 31, 2022.   •The decrease in mortgage banking income was primarily the result of a decrease in loan origination volume and gross margin on loans originated and sold.Gross margin on loans originated and sold is the ratio of mortgage banking income (excluding the change in interest rate lock fair value) divided by total loanoriginations. Total loan origination volume on a consolidated basis decreased $525.9 million, or 20.6%, to $2.02 billion during the year ended December 31, 2023compared to $2.55 billion during the year ended December 31, 2022.  Gross margin on loans originated and sold decreased 2.6% at the mortgage bankingsegment. Gross margin on loans originated and sold is the ratio of mortgage banking income (excluding the change in interest rate lock fair value) divided bytotal loan originations. See "Comparison of Mortgage Banking Segment Results of Operations for the Year December 31, 2023 and 2022" above, for additionaldiscussion of the increase in mortgage banking income. •Service charges on loans and deposits decreased primarily due to a decrease in loan prepayment fees and other loan fees. •The decrease in other noninterest income was due primarily to an decrease in mortgage servicing fee income and gain from death benefit decreased as therewas a gain recorded on one bank owned life insurance policy during the year ended December 31, 2022 compared to none during the year ended December 31,2023. Offsetting the decreases, the Company sold mortgage servicing rights related to $318.4 million in loans serviced for third parties during the year endedDecember 31, 2023. The sale generated $3.5 million in net proceeds on a mortgage servicing rights book value of $2.9 million and resulted in a $583,000 gain.There were no comparable sales during the year ended December 31, 2022.  As of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, the Company maintained servicingrights related to $238.7 million and $409.6 million, respectively, in loans previously sold to third parties.  - 50 -  Noninterest Expenses   Years Ended December 31,   2023  2022  $ Change  % Change   (Dollars in Thousands)                  Compensation, payroll taxes, and other employee benefits $84,096  $99,565  $(15,469)  (15.5%)Occupancy, office furniture, and equipment  8,323   8,706   (383)  (4.4%)Advertising  3,779   3,976   (197)  (5.0%)Data processing  4,653   4,470   183   4.1%Communications  988   1,189   (201)  (16.9%)Professional fees  2,686   1,815   871   48.0%Real estate owned  4   19   (15)  (78.9%)Loan processing expense  3,428   4,744   (1,316)  (27.7%)Other  11,755   12,578   (823)  (6.5%)Total noninterest expenses $119,712  $137,062  $(17,350)  (12.7%) Total noninterest expenses decreased $17.4 million, or 12.7%, to $119.7 million during the year ended December 31, 2023 compared to $137.1 million during the yearended December 31, 2022.  •Compensation, payroll taxes and other employee benefit expense at our mortgage banking segment decreased $15.9 million, or 19.6%, to $65.1 million for theyear ended December 31, 2023. The decrease in compensation expense was primarily related to commission expense and branch manager compensation drivenby decreased loan origination volume and branch profitability as gross margins decreased. Additionally, salaries expense decreased due a reduction inheadcount during the year ended December 31, 2023 compared to the year ended December 31, 2022.  •Compensation, payroll taxes and other employee benefits expense at the community banking segment increased $853,000 or 4.5%, to $19.9 million during theyear ended December 31, 2023. The increase was primarily due to an increase in variable compensation and overall salary expense due to annual raises and anincrease in full-time equivalents due to open positions being filled. •Occupancy, office furniture and equipment expense at the mortgage banking segment decreased $410,000 to $4.7 million during the year ended December 31,2023 primarily resulting from lower equipment lease, maintenance, computer, and depreciation expenses. •Occupancy, office furniture and equipment expense at the community banking segment increased $27,000 to $3.7 million during the year ended December 31,2023 compared to the prior year. The decrease was due primarily to increased building maintenance/repair costs. •Advertising expense decreased $197,000, or 5.0%, to $3.8 million during the year ended December 31, 2023. This was primarily due to a decrease at the mortgagebanking segment in an effort to control costs. •Data processing expense increased $183,000, or 4.1% to $4.7 million during the year ended December 31, 2023. This was primarily due toincreases at the community banking and mortgage banking segments for continued investments in technology and security. •Professional fees increased $871,000, or 48.0%, to $2.7 million during the year ended December 31, 2023. The increase was due to receiving a countersuitsettlement related to a previously closed legal matter at the mortgage banking segment during the year ended December 31, 2022. Additionally, legal costsincreased at the mortgage banking segment due to ongoing legal matters. •Other noninterest expense decreased $823,000, or 6.5%, to $11.8 million during the year ended December 31, 2023. The decrease at the mortgage bankingsegment related to a decrease in corporate meeting expenses, travel expenses, meals expense, and mortgage servicing rights amortization as the there was abulk sale in the first quarter of 2023 and none during 2022. Offsetting the decreases, other noninterest expenses increased at the community banking segmentas FDIC premiums increased starting in 2023 - 51 -  Income Taxes Income tax expense decreased $3.3 million to $1.7 million during the year ended December 31, 2023, compared to $5.0 million during the year ended December 31,2022 as pretax income decreased $13.4 million.  Income tax expense was recognized during the year ended December 31, 2023 at an effective rate of 15.0% compared to aneffective rate of 20.4% during the year ended December 31, 2022. The decrease in the effective rate was primarily due to the permanent deductions being a greaterpercentage of pretax income as pretax income continued to decrease compared to the prior year.   On July 1, 2023, Wisconsin’s Governor signed the State Budget, retroactive to January 1, 2023, which included language that provides financial institutionswith an exemption from state taxable income for interest, fees, and penalties earned on business or agriculture purpose loans where the borrower resides, or is located, inthe state of Wisconsin and that are $5 million or less. The Company is not able to calculate a reasonable estimate of the impact of this law until further informationregarding the criteria is published from the Wisconsin Department of Revenue. If we are allowed to exclude current taxable income, we would expect to decrease our 2023effective income tax rate and potentially reduce our deferred tax asset with a one-time charge to income tax expense to reflect the reduction in state income taxes.  TheCompany will calculate an estimate once more details are provided.  Liquidity and Capital Resources We maintain liquid assets at levels we consider adequate to meet our liquidity needs. The liquidity ratio is equal to average daily cash and cash equivalents forthe period divided by average total assets. We adjust our liquidity levels to fund loan commitments, repay our borrowings, fund deposit outflows and pay real estatetaxes on mortgage loans. We also adjust liquidity as appropriate to meet asset and liability management objectives. The operational adequacy of our liquidity position atany point in time is dependent upon the judgment of the Chief Financial Officer as supported by the Asset/Liability Committee. Liquidity is monitored on a daily, weeklyand monthly basis using a variety of measurement tools and indicators. Regulatory liquidity, as required by the WDFI, is based on current liquid assets as a percentageof the prior month’s average deposits and short-term borrowings. Minimum primary liquidity is equal to 4.0% of deposits and short-term borrowings and minimum totalregulatory liquidity is equal to 8.0% of deposits and short-term borrowings.  Our primary sources of liquidity are deposits, amortization and repayment of loans, sales of loans held for sale, maturities of investment securities and othershort-term investments, and earnings and funds provided from operations.  While scheduled principal repayments on loans are a relatively predictable source of funds,deposit flows and loan repayments are greatly influenced by market interest rates, economic conditions, and rates offered by our competitors.  We set the interest rateson our deposits to maintain a desired level of total deposits.  In addition, we invest excess funds in short-term, interest-earning assets, which provide liquidity to meetlending requirements.  Additional sources of liquidity used to manage long- and short-term cash flows include advances from the FHLB. A portion of our liquidity consists of cash and cash equivalents, which are a product of our operating, investing and financing activities. At December 31, 2023and 2022, $36.4 million and $46.6 million, respectively, of our assets were invested in cash and cash equivalents. Our primary sources of cash are principal repayments onloans, proceeds from the calls and maturities of debt and mortgage related securities, increases in deposit accounts, Federal funds purchased and advances from theFHLB. Our cash flows are derived from operating activities, investing activities and financing activities as reported in our Consolidated Statements of Cash Flowsincluded in our Consolidated Financial Statements. During the years ended December 31, 2023, and 2022, we originated on a consolidated basis $2.02 billion and $2.55 billion in loans for sale and sold loans on aconsolidated basis of $2.06 billion and $2.81 billion.  During the years ended December 2023 and 2022, loan originations net of loan repayments resulted in anegative cash flows of $154.2 million and $303.9 million.  Cash received from the principal repayments of debt and mortgage related securities and maturity and calls ofdebt securities totaled $24.9 million and $50.7 million for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. We purchased $29.5 million and $90.0 million in debtsecurities and mortgage related securities classified as available for sale during the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The net decreases in depositswere $8.4 million and $34.4 for the year ending December 31, 2023 and 2022. We received a $1.2 million death benefit on a bank owned life insurance policy in 2022. Therewas an increase in net borrowings of $224.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2023 and a net decrease in borrowings of $90.3 million for the year ended December31, 2022.  During the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, we repurchased common stock of $26.0 million and $47.8 million, respectively.  During the years endedDecember 31, 2023 and 2022, we paid cash dividends on common stock of $15.4 million and $30.3 million, respectively. Deposits decreased by $8.4 million from December 31, 2022 to December 31, 2023. The decrease was driven by a $96.4 million decrease in total transactionaccounts, offset by an $88.0 million increase in time deposits. Deposit flows are generally affected by the level of interest rates, market conditions, products offered bylocal competitors, and other factors. Liquidity management is both a daily and longer-term function of business management.  If we require funds beyond our ability to generate them internally,borrowing agreements exist with the FHLB which provide an additional source of funds. At December 31, 2023, we had $159.0 million in long term advances from theFHLB with contractual maturity dates in 2025, 2027, and 2028.  See Note 6 - Borrowings of the notes to audited consolidated financial statements for additionalinformation about the remaining call option details of our FHLB long-term debt.        The Company had approximately $287.9 million of uninsured deposits for approximately 1,209 customers as of December 31, 2023. Uninsured deposit amountsare estimated based on the portions of customer account balances that exceed the FDIC insurance limits.   - 52 -  At December 31, 2023, we had outstanding commitments to originate loans receivable of $9.8 million.  In addition, at December 31, 2023, we had unfundedcommitments under construction loans of $76.7 million, unfunded commitments under business lines of credit of $15.4 million and unfunded commitments under homeequity lines of credit and standby letters of credit of $12.2 million. At December 31, 2023, certificates of deposit scheduled to mature in less than one year totaled$622.4 million. Based on prior experience, management believes that a significant portion of such deposits will remain with us, although there can be no assurance thatthis will be the case. In the event a significant portion of our deposits are not retained by us, we will have to utilize other funding sources, such as Federal Home LoanBank of Chicago advances, Federal Reserve Discount Window or brokered deposits to maintain our level of assets. However, such borrowings may not be available onattractive terms, or at all, if and when needed. Alternatively, we would reduce our level of liquid assets, such as our cash and cash equivalents and securities availablefor sale in order to meet funding needs. In addition, the cost of such deposits may be significantly higher if market interest rates are higher or there is an increasedamount of competition for deposits in our market area at the time of renewal. Capital Shareholders’ equity decreased by $26.4 million, or 7.1%, to $344.1 million at December 31, 2023 from $370.5 million at December 31, 2022. Shareholders' equitydecreased primarily due to the declaration of dividends and the repurchase of stock. Partially offsetting the decreases, there were increases due to the net income,additional paid-in capital as stock options were exercised and equity awards vested, increases in the values of securities available for sale, and unearned ESOP sharesvesting. The Company's Board of Directors authorized a 2,000,000 share stock repurchase program in the second quarter of 2023. As of December 31, 2023, the Companyhad repurchased 15.9 million shares at an average price of $15.04 under previously approved stock repurchase plans. Waterstone Financial, Inc. and WaterStone Bank are subject to various regulatory capital requirements, including a risk-based capital measure. The risk-basedcapital guidelines include both a definition of capital and a framework for calculating risk-weighted assets by assigning assets and off-balance sheet items to broad riskcategories. At December 31, 2023, Waterstone Financial, Inc. and WaterStone Bank exceeded all regulatory capital requirements and are considered “well capitalized”under regulatory guidelines. See “Supervision and Regulation—Capital Requirements” and Note 9 - Regulatory Capital of the notes to the consolidated financialstatements. Contractual Obligations, Commitments, Contingent Liabilities, and Off-balance Sheet Arrangements During the year ended December 31, 2023, our FHLB short-term debt increased by $123.3 million and we repaid $304.0 million in FHLB long-term debt andborrowed $259.0 million of new FHLB long-term debt. In addition, we borrowed $145.0 in short-term debt from the Federal Reserve Bank.  See Note 8 - Borrowings of the notes to the consolidated financial statements for additional information about the remaining maturities of our FHLB long-termdebt. See Note 14 - Commitments, Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements, and Contingent Liabilities of the notes to the consolidated financial statements for additionalinformation. WaterStone Bank has various financial obligations, including contractual obligations and commitments that may require future cash payments. The followingtables present information indicating various non-deposit contractual obligations and commitments of WaterStone Bank as of December 31, 2023 and the respectivematurity dates. Impact of Inflation and Changing Prices The financial statements and accompanying notes have been prepared in accordance with GAAP. GAAP generally requires the measurement of financialposition and operating results in terms of historical dollars without consideration for changes in the relative purchasing power of money over time due to inflation. Theimpact of inflation is reflected in the increased cost of our operations. Unlike industrial companies, our assets and liabilities are primarily monetary in nature. As a result,changes in market interest rates have a greater impact on performance than do the effects of inflation. - 53 -   Item 7A.  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk Management of Market Risk General.  The majority of our assets and liabilities are monetary in nature. Consequently, our most significant form of market risk is interest rate risk. Our assets,consisting primarily of mortgage loans, have longer maturities than our liabilities, consisting primarily of deposits. As a result, a principal part of our business strategy isto manage interest rate risk and reduce the exposure of our net interest income to changes in market interest rates. Accordingly, WaterStone Bank’s board of directorshas established an Asset/Liability Committee which is responsible for evaluating the interest rate risk inherent in our assets and liabilities, for determining the level ofrisk that is appropriate given our business strategy, operating environment, capital, liquidity and performance objectives, and for managing this risk consistent with theguidelines approved by the board of directors. Management monitors the level of interest rate risk on a regular basis and the Asset/Liability Committee meets at leastweekly to review our asset/liability policies and interest rate risk position, which are evaluated quarterly. We have sought to manage our interest rate risk in order to minimize the exposure of our earnings and capital to changes in interest rates. We have implementedthe following strategies to manage our interest rate risk: (i) emphasizing variable rate loans including variable rate one- to four-family, and commercial real estate loans aswell as three to five year commercial real estate balloon loans; (ii) reducing and shortening the expected average life of the investment portfolio; and (iii) wheneverpossible, lengthening the term structure of our deposit base and our borrowings from the FHLBC. These measures should reduce the volatility of our net interest incomein different interest rate environments. Income Simulation.  Simulation analysis is an estimate of our interest rate risk exposure at a particular point in time.  At least quarterly we review the potentialeffect changes in interest rates may have on the repayment or repricing of rate sensitive assets and funding requirements of rate sensitive liabilities.  Our most recentsimulation uses projected repricing of assets and liabilities at December 31, 2023 on the basis of contractual maturities, anticipated repayments and scheduled rateadjustments.  Prepayment rate assumptions may have a significant impact on interest income simulation results.  Because of the large percentage of loans and mortgage-backed securities we hold, rising or falling interest rates may have a significant impact on the actual prepayment speeds of our mortgage related assets that may in turnaffect our interest rate sensitivity position.  When interest rates rise, prepayment speeds slow and the average expected lives of our assets would tend to lengthen morethan the expected average lives of our liabilities and therefore would most likely have a positive impact on net interest income and earnings. The following interest rate scenario displays the percentage change in net interest income over a one-year time horizon assuming increases of 100, 200 and 300basis points and a decrease of 100 basis points.  The results incorporate actual cash flows and repricing characteristics for balance sheet accounts following aninstantaneous parallel change in market rates based upon a static (no growth balance sheet). Analysis of Net Interest Income Sensitivity   Immediate Change in Rates   +300  +200  +100   -100   (Dollar Amounts in Thousands) As of December 31, 2023                Dollar Change $(11,128) $(7,467) $(3,775) $4,304 Percentage Change  (27.4%)  (18.4%)  (9.3%)  10.6% At December 31, 2023, a 100 basis point instantaneous increase in interest rates had the effect of decreasing forecast net interest income over the next 12months by 9.3% while a 100 basis point decrease in rates had the effect of increasing net interest income by 10.6%. - 54 -   Item 8.  Financial Statements and Supplementary Data Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting The management of Waterstone Financial, Inc. (the “Company”) is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting.Internal control over financial reporting is defined in Rule 13a-15(1) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 as a process designed by, or under thesupervision of; our principal executive and principal financial officers and effected by the board of directors, management and other personnel, to provide reasonableassurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with U.S. generally acceptedaccounting principles and includes those policies and procedures that: Pertain to the maintenance of records that in reasonable detail accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of our assets; Provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with U.S. generally acceptedaccounting principles, and that our receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with authorizations of our management and directors; and Provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of our assets that could have a material effect onthe financial statements. Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements.  Projections of any evaluation of effectiveness tofuture periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies orprocedures may deteriorate. Management assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023.  In making this assessment, management used thecriteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”) in the 2013 Internal Control-Integrated Framework.  Based onthat assessment, we believe that, as of December 31, 2023, our internal control over financial reporting is effective based on those criteria. FORVIS, LLP has audited the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023, as stated in their report dated March 6,2024.  /s/ William F. Bruss /s/ Mark R. GerkeWilliam F. Bruss Mark R. GerkeChief Executive Officer Chief Financial Officer - 55 -   REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM To the Shareholders, Board of Directors, and Audit CommitteeWaterstone Financial, Inc. Opinion on the Consolidated Financial StatementsWe have audited the accompanying consolidated statement of financial condition of Waterstone Financial, Inc. and Subsidiaries (“Company”) as of December 31, 2023,the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income, changes in shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2023, andthe related notes (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in allmaterial respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2023, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the year ended December 31,2023, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”), the Company’s internalcontrol over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee ofSponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated March 6, 2024, expressed an unqualified opinion thereon. Basis for OpinionThese financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s financial statementsbased on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federalsecurities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB. We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assuranceabout whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audit included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performingprocedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures include examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements.Our audit also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of thefinancial statements. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion. - 56 -  Critical Audit MattersThe critical audit matters communicated below are matters arising from the current-period audit of the financial statements that were communicated or required to becommunicated to the audit committee and that: (1) relate to accounts or disclosures that are material to the financial statements and (2) involved our especiallychallenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The communication of critical audit matters does not alter in any way our opinion on the financial statements, taken as awhole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matters below, providing separate opinions on the critical audit matters or on the accounts or disclosures towhich they relate. Allowance for Credit Losses on LoansAs described in Notes 1 and 3 to the financial statements, the Company’s loan portfolio and the associated allowance for credit losses (“ACL”) were $1.66 billion and$18.55 million as of December 31, 2023, respectively. The ACL considers historical loss rates, qualitative reserves and reasonable and supportable forecast adjustments.The ACL is estimated on a collective basis for groups of loans that share similar risk characteristics. Qualitative reserves reflect management’s overall estimate of theextent to which current expected credit losses on collectively evaluated loans will differ from historical loss experience. We identified the qualitative reserves component of the allowance for credit losses as a critical audit matter. The principal consideration for our determination is thesubjectivity of the assumptions management utilized in determining and applying qualitative reserves within the model. This required a higher degree of judgment andsubjectivity due to the nature and extent of audit evidence and effort required to address this matter. The primary audit procedures we performed to address this critical audit matter included:  ●Evaluated the design and tested the operating effectiveness of key controls relating to the Company’s ACL, including controls over: oManagement’s process for identification, basis for development and related adjustments, including reasonableness of the qualitative factorcomponents of the ALL oManagement’s review of reliability and accuracy of data used to calculate and estimate each component of the ACL, including accuracy of thequalitative calculation ●Assessed the reasonableness of the qualitative factor adjustments, including management’s identification of qualitative factors, the application ofqualitative factor adjustments within the model, and; the completeness and accuracy of data utilized in development qualitative adjustments. ●Evaluated management’s judgments and assumptions related to the qualitative adjustments by assessing trends in relevant factors and evaluating therelationship of trends to the qualitative adjustments applied to the ACL. ●Evaluated the mathematical accuracy of the ACL, including the mathematical application of the qualitative adjustments on the loan segments. FORVIS, LLP   We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2023. Kansas City, MissouriMarch 6, 2024 - 57 -  REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM To the Shareholders, Board of Directors, and Audit CommitteeWaterstone Financial, Inc. Opinion on the Internal Control over Financial ReportingWe have audited Waterstone Financial, Inc. and Subsidiaries’ (“Company”) internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023, based on criteriaestablished in Internal Control – Integrated Framework: (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). In ouropinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023, based on criteria established inInternal Control – Integrated Framework: (2013) issued by COSO. We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”), the consolidated financialstatements of the Company as of December 31, 2023 and for the year ended December 31, 2023, and our report dated March 6, 2024, expressed an unqualified opinion onthose financial statements. Basis for OpinionThe Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internalcontrol over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Annual Report on Internal Controls over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is toexpress an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federalsecurities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB. We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assuranceabout whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internalcontrol over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal controlbased on the assessed risk. Our audit also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our auditprovides a reasonable basis for our opinion. Definitions and Limitations of Internal Control over Financial ReportingA company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and thepreparation of reliable financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control overfinancial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect thetransactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation offinancial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordancewith authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorizedacquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements. Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectivenessto future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions or that the degree of compliance with the policies orprocedures may deteriorate.- 58 - FORVIS, LLP   Kansas City, MissouriMarch 6, 2024 - 59 -   Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm Board of Directors and ShareholdersWaterstone Financial, Inc.Wauwatosa, Wisconsin  Opinion on the Financial StatementsWe have audited the accompanying consolidated statement of financial condition of Waterstone Financial, Inc. and Subsidiaries (the Company) as of December 31,2022, the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income, changes in shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for the two years in the period endedDecember 31, 2022, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the financial statements). In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2022, and theresults of its operations and its cash flows for each of two years in the period ended December 31, 2022, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted inthe United States of America. Basis for OpinionThe Company’s management is responsible for these financial statements. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s financial statements based onour audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to beindependent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and ExchangeCommission and the PCAOB. We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assuranceabout whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits of the financial statements included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error orfraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures inthe financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating theoverall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provides a reasonable basis for our opinions. /s/ CliftonLarsonAllen LLP CliftonLarsonAllen LLP We have served as the Company’s auditor from 2021 through 2022. Milwaukee, WisconsinFebruary 28, 2023 - 60 -   Waterstone Financial, Inc. and SubsidiariesConsolidated Statements of Financial ConditionDecember 31, 2023 and 2022  December 31,   2023  2022 Assets (In Thousands, except share data) Cash $30,667  $33,700 Federal funds sold  5,493   10,683 Interest-earning deposits in other financial institutions and other short term investments  261   2,259 Cash and cash equivalents  36,421   46,642 Securities available for sale, at fair value (cost: 2023-$227,716; 2022-$222,665)  204,907   196,588 Loans held for sale (at fair value)  164,993   131,188 Loans receivable  1,664,215   1,510,178 Less: Allowance for credit losses ("ACL") - loans  18,549   17,757 Loans receivable, net  1,645,666   1,492,421          Office properties and equipment, net  19,995   21,105 Federal Home Loan Bank stock (at cost)  20,880   17,357 Cash surrender value of life insurance  67,859   66,443 Real estate owned, net  254   145 Prepaid expenses and other assets  52,414   59,783 Total assets $2,213,389  $2,031,672          Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity        Liabilities:        Demand deposits $187,107  $230,596 Money market and savings deposits  273,233   326,145 Time deposits  730,284   642,271 Total deposits  1,190,624   1,199,012          Borrowings  611,054   386,784 Advance payments by borrowers for taxes  6,607   5,334 Other liabilities  61,048   70,056 Total liabilities  1,869,333   1,661,186 Commitments and contingencies (Note 14)                 Shareholders' equity:        Preferred stock (par value $0.01 per share) Authorized - 50,000,000 shares in 2023 and 2022, no shares issued  -   - Common stock (par value $.01 per share) Authorized - 100,000,000 shares at December 31, 2023 and at December 31,2022, Issued and Outstanding - 20,314,786 at December 31, 2023 and 22,174,225 at December 31, 2022  203   222 Additional paid-in capital  103,908   128,550 Retained earnings  269,606   274,246 Unearned ESOP shares  (11,869)  (13,056)Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of taxes  (17,792)  (19,476)Total shareholders’ equity  344,056   370,486 Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity $2,213,389  $2,031,672  See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements - 61 -   Waterstone Financial, Inc. and SubsidiariesConsolidated Statements of OperationsYears ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021   Years ended December 31,   2023  2022  2021   (In Thousands, except per share amounts) Interest income:            Loans $90,148  $62,935  $64,366 Mortgage-related securities  4,053   3,241   1,954 Debt securities, federal funds sold and short-term investments  5,007   4,069   3,563 Total interest income  99,208   70,245   69,883 Interest expense:            Deposits  25,738   4,863   4,420 Borrowings  23,255   8,428   9,948 Total interest expense  48,993   13,291   14,368 Net interest income  50,215   56,954   55,515 Provision (credit) for credit losses (1)  656   968   (3,990)Net interest income after provision (credit) for credit losses (1)  49,559   55,986   59,505 Noninterest income:            Service charges on loans and deposits  1,819   2,202   3,325 Increase in cash surrender value of life insurance  1,710   1,738   1,615 Mortgage banking income  75,686   99,560   191,035 Other  1,970   2,055   7,220 Total noninterest income  81,185   105,555   203,195 Noninterest expenses:            Compensation, payroll taxes, and other employee benefits  84,096   99,565   135,115 Occupancy, office furniture, and equipment  8,323   8,706   9,612 Advertising  3,779   3,976   3,528 Data processing  4,653   4,470   3,950 Communications  988   1,189   1,309 Professional fees  2,686   1,815   1,275 Real estate owned  4   19   3 Loan processing expense  3,428   4,744   4,610 Other  11,755   12,578   11,192 Total noninterest expenses  119,712   137,062   170,594 Income before income taxes  11,032   24,479   92,106 Income tax expense  1,657   4,992   21,315 Net income $9,375  $19,487  $70,791 Income per share:            Basic $0.47  $0.89  $2.98 Diluted $0.46  $0.89  $2.96 Weighted average shares outstanding:            Basic  20,158   21,884   23,741 Diluted  20,196   22,010   23,931  (1) The Company adopted ASU 2016-13 as of January 1, 2022. The prior year amounts presented are calculated under the prior accounting standard.  See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements - 62 -   Waterstone Financial, Inc. and SubsidiariesConsolidated Statements of Comprehensive IncomeYears ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021   Years ended December 31,   2023  2022  2021   (In Thousands) Net income $9,375  $19,487  $70,791 Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:            Net unrealized holding gain (loss) arising during the period, net of tax (expense) benefit of($1,584), $6,868,and $1,294, respectively  1,684   (18,341)  (3,461)Total other comprehensive income (loss)  1,684   (18,341)  (3,461)Comprehensive income $11,059  $1,146  $67,330  See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements - 63 -   Waterstone Financial, Inc. and SubsidiariesConsolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ EquityYears Ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021                       Accumulated               Additional      Unearned  Other  Total   Common Stock  Paid-In  Retained  ESOP  Comprehensive  Shareholders'   Shares  Amount  Capital  Earnings  Shares  Income (Loss)  Equity   (In Thousands)                              Balances at December 31, 2020  25,088  $251  $180,684  $245,287  $(15,430) $2,326  $413,118                              Comprehensive income:                            Net income  -   -   -  $70,791   -   -  $70,791 Other comprehensive loss:  -   -   -   -   -   (3,461)  (3,461)Total comprehensive income                          67,330 ESOP shares committed to be released to Planparticipants  -   -   942   -   1,187   -   2,129 Cash dividend, $1.80 per share  -   -   -   (42,680)  -   -   (42,680)Stock compensation activity, net of tax  208   2   2,305   -   -   -   2,307 Stock based compensation expense  -   -   745   -   -   -   745 Purchase of common stock returned toauthorized but unissued  (501)  (5)  (10,171)  -   -   -   (10,176)Balances at December 31, 2021  24,795  $248  $174,505  $273,398  $(14,243) $(1,135) $432,773                              Comprehensive income:                            Net income  -  $-  $-  $19,487  $-  $-  $19,487 Other comprehensive loss:  -   -   -   -   -   (18,341)  (18,341)Total comprehensive income  -   -   -   -   -   -   1,146 Adoption of new accounting pronouncement (SeeNote 1)  -   -   -   (1,392)  -   -   (1,392)ESOP shares committed to be released to Planparticipants  -   -   702   -   1,187   -   1,889 Cash dividend, $0.80 per share  -   -   -   (17,247)  -   -   (17,247)Stock compensation activity, net of tax  62   1   563   -   -   -   564 Stock based compensation expense  -   -   583   -   -   -   583 Purchase of common stock returned toauthorized but unissued  (2,683)  (27)  (47,803)  -   -   -   (47,830)Balances at December 31, 2022  22,174  $222  $128,550  $274,246  $(13,056) $(19,476) $370,486                              Comprehensive income:                            Net income  -  $-  $-  $9,375  $-  $-  $9,375 Other comprehensive income:  -   -   -   -   -   1,684   1,684 Total comprehensive income  -   -   -   -   -   -   11,059 ESOP shares committed to be released to Planparticipants  -   -   274   -   1,187   -   1,461 Cash dividend, $0.70 per share  -   -   -   (14,015)  -   -   (14,015)Stock compensation activity, net of tax  86   1   819   -   -   -   820 Stock based compensation expense  -   -   277   -   -   -   277 Purchase of common stock returned to authorizedbut unissued  (1,945)  (20)  (26,012)  -   -   -   (26,032)Balances at December 31, 2023  20,315  $203  $103,908  $269,606  $(11,869) $(17,792) $344,056  See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements - 64 -   Waterstone Financial, Inc. and SubsidiariesConsolidated Statements of Cash FlowsYears ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021   Years ended December 31,   2023  2022  2021   (In Thousands) Operating activities:            Net income $9,375  $19,487  $70,791 Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:            Provision (credit) for credit losses (1)  656   968   (3,990)Depreciation, amortization, accretion  3,301   4,033   6,048 Impairment of Mortgage Servicing Rights  320   -   - Deferred taxes  (1,073)  (484)  1,378 Stock based compensation  277   583   745 Origination of mortgage servicing rights  (1,773)  (2,462)  (5,778)Gain on sale of loans held for sale  (71,378)  (76,156)  (193,399)Loans originated for sale  (2,024,014)  (2,549,935)  (4,198,139)Proceeds on sales of loans originated for sale  2,061,587   2,807,641   4,480,804 Gain on death benefit on bank owned life insurance  -   (340)  - (Increase) decrease in accrued interest receivable  (1,696)  (1,712)  944 Increase in cash surrender value of life insurance  (1,710)  (1,738)  (1,615)Decrease (increase) in derivative assets  4,467   (10,897)  6,688 Increase (decrease) in accrued interest on deposits and borrowings  1,255   399   (178)Decrease (increase) in prepaid tax expense  1,557   1,068   (2,558)Legal settlement  -   -   (4,250)Increase (decrease) in derivative liabilities  (5,431)  16,260   (5,140)Net gain related to real estate owned  -   -   (12)Gain on sale of mortgage servicing rights  (583)  -   (4,032)Change in other assets and other liabilities, net  (2,714)  (50)  (6,301)Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities  (27,577)  206,665   142,006              Investing activities:            Net (increase) decrease in loans receivable  (154,171)  (303,874)  170,297 Purchases of:            FHLB Stock  (11,937)  (5,005)  - Debt securities  (5,437)  (9,732)  - Mortgage related securities  (24,068)  (80,265)  (73,687)Bank owned life insurance  (180)  (180)  (180)Premises and equipment  (700)  (701)  (778)Proceeds from:            Principal repayments on mortgage-related securities  20,885   33,191   40,445 Maturities of debt securities  3,966   17,555   9,055 Sales of FHLB stock  8,414   12,086   2,282 Proceeds on sales of mortgage servicing rights  3,530   -   12,448 Sales of real estate owned  -   -   183 Death benefit from bank owned life insurance  474   1,183   - Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities  (159,224)  (335,742)  160,065              Financing activities:            Net (decrease) increase in deposits  (8,388)  (34,374)  48,516 Net change in short-term borrowings  269,270   179,657   (30,947)Repayment of long-term debt  (304,000)  (470,000)  - Proceeds from long-term debt  259,000   200,000   - Net change in advance payments by borrowers for taxes  1,273   1,240   572 Cash dividends on common stock  (15,363)  (30,260)  (30,388)Proceeds from stock option exercises  820   564   2,307 Purchase of common stock returned to authorized but unissued  (26,032)  (47,830)  (10,176)Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities  176,580   (201,003)  (20,116)(Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents  (10,221)  (330,080)  281,955 Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period  46,642   376,722   94,767 Cash and cash equivalents at end of period $36,421  $46,642  $376,722              Supplemental information:            Cash paid during the period for:            Income tax payments $1,169  $4,090  $22,663 Interest payments  47,738   12,892   14,546 Noncash investing activities:            Dividends declared but not paid in other liabilities  3,164   4,511   17,525 (1) The Company adopted ASU 2016-13 as of January 1, 2022. The prior year amounts presented are calculated under the prior accounting standard.  See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements- 65 -  Waterstone Financial, Inc. and SubsidiariesNotes to Consolidated Financial StatementsYears ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021  1)Summary of Significant Accounting Policies The following significant accounting and reporting policies of Waterstone Financial, Inc. and subsidiaries (collectively, the “Company”), conform to U.S.generally accepted accounting principles, or (“GAAP”), and are used in preparing and presenting these consolidated financial statements. Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to current period presentation.  These reclassifications did not result in any changes topreviously reported net income.  The Company reclassed certain line items in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.  a)Nature of Operations The Company is a one-bank holding company with two operating segments – community banking and mortgage banking.  WaterStone Bank SSB (the "Bank"or "WaterStone Bank") is principally engaged in the business of attracting deposits from the general public and using such deposits to originate real estate,business and consumer loans. The Bank provides a full range of financial services to customers through branch locations in southeastern Wisconsin. The Bank is subject to the regulationsof certain federal and state agencies and undergoes periodic examinations by those regulatory authorities. The Bank owns a mortgage banking subsidiary that originates residential real estate loans held for sale at various branch offices across the country.  Mortgagebanking volume fluctuates widely in connection with movements in interest rates.  Mortgage banking income is reported as a single line item in the statementsof operations while mortgage banking expense is distributed among the various noninterest expense lines.  Compensation, payroll taxes and other employeebenefits expense fluctuates in relation to fluctuations in mortgage banking income.  b)Principles of Consolidation The consolidated financial statements include the accounts and operations of Waterstone Financial, Inc. and its wholly owned subsidiary, WaterStoneBank.  The Bank has the following wholly owned subsidiaries: Wauwatosa Investments, Inc., Waterstone Mortgage Corporation, and Main Street Real EstateHoldings, LLC. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.  c)Use of Estimates The preparation of the consolidated financial statements requires management of the Company to make a number of estimates and assumptions relating to thereported amount of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and thereported amounts of revenues and expenses during the period. Significant items subject to such estimates and assumptions include: the allowance forcredit losses, income taxes, and fair value measurements.  d)Cash and Cash Equivalents The Company considers federal funds sold and highly liquid debt instruments with a maturity of three months or less when purchased to be cash equivalents.  e)Securities Available for Sale Securities At the time of purchase, investment debt securities are classified as available for sale, as management has the intent and ability to hold such securities for anindefinite period of time, but not necessarily to maturity.  Any decision to sell investment securities available for sale would be based on various factors,including, but not limited to asset/liability management strategies, changes in interest rates or prepayment risks, liquidity needs, or regulatory capitalconsiderations.  Available for sale securities are carried at fair value, with the unrealized gains and losses, net of deferred tax, reported as a separate componentof equity in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). The amortized cost of securities available for sale is adjusted for accretion of discounts tomaturity and amortization of premiums over the estimated life of each security or, in the case of callable securities, through the first call date, using the effectiveyield method. Such amortization and accretion is included in interest income. Interest income on securities is recognized using the interest method according tothe terms of the security.  Realized gains or losses on securities sales (using specific identification method) are included in noninterest income.  - 66 -  Federal Home Loan Bank Stock Federal Home Loan Bank ("FHLB") stock is carried at cost, which is the amount that the stock is redeemable by tendering to the FHLB or the amount at whichshares can be sold to other FHLB members.  f)Loans Held for Sale The origination of residential real estate loans is an integral component of the business of the Company. The Company generally sells its originations of long-term fixed interest rate mortgage loans in the secondary market, and on a selective basis, retains the rights to service the loans sold. Gains and losses on thesales of these loans are determined using the specific identification method. Mortgage loans originated for sale are generally sold within 45 days after closing. The Company has elected to carry loans held for sale at fair value.  Fair value is generally determined by estimating a gross premium or discount, which isderived from pricing currently observable in the market.  The amount by which cost differs from market value is accounted for as a valuation adjustment to thecarrying value of the loans.  Changes in value are included in mortgage banking income in the consolidated statements of operations.  Costs to originate loans held for sale are expensed as incurred and are included on the appropriate noninterest expense lines of the statements ofoperations.  Salaries, commissions and related payroll taxes are the primary costs to originate and comprised approximately 72.6% of total mortgage bankingnoninterest expense for 2023. The value of mortgage loans held for sale and other residential mortgage loan commitments to customers are hedged by utilizing both best efforts andmandatory forward commitments to sell loans to investors in the secondary market. Such forward commitments are generally entered into at the time whenapplications are taken to protect the value of the mortgage loans from increases in market interest rates during the period held. The Company recognizesrevenue associated with the expected future cash flows of servicing loans at the time a forward loan commitment is made.  g)Loans Receivable and Related Interest Income Loans are classified as held for investment when management has both the intent and ability to hold the loan for the foreseeable future, or until maturity orpayoff.  Loans are carried at the principal amount outstanding, net of any unearned income, charge-offs and unamortized deferred fees and costs.  Loanorigination and commitment fees and certain direct loan origination costs are deferred and the net amount amortized as an adjustment of the related loan yield.Amortization is based on a level-yield method over the contractual life of the related loans or until the loan is paid in full. Loan interest income is recognized on the accrual basis.  Accrual of interest is generally discontinued either when reasonable doubt exists as to the full, timelycollection of interest or principal, or when a loan becomes contractually past due  90 days or more with respect to interest or principal. At that time, previouslyaccrued and uncollected interest on such loans is reversed and additional income is recorded only to the extent that payments are received and the collectionof principal is reasonably assured.  Generally, loans are restored to accrual status when the obligation is brought current, has performed in accordance with thecontractual terms for a reasonable period of time, and the ultimate collectability of the total contractual principal and interest is no longer in doubt. A loan is accounted for as a financing receivable whose borrowers are experiencing financial difficulty if the Company, for economic reasons related to theborrower’s financial condition, grants a concession to the borrower that it would not otherwise consider.  A financing receivable whose borrowers areexperiencing financial difficulty typically involves a modification of terms such as a reduction of the stated interest rate, a deferral of principal payments or acombination of both for a temporary period of time.  If the borrower was performing in accordance with the original contractual terms at the time of therestructuring, the restructured loan is accounted for on an accruing basis as long as the borrower continues to comply with the modified terms.  If the loan wasnot accounted for on an accrual basis at the time of restructuring, the restructured loan remains in non-accrual status until the loan completes a minimum of sixconsecutive contractual payments. - 67 -   h)Allowance for Credit LossesAFS Debt Securities The impairment model for available-for-sale (“AFS”) debt securities differs from the CECL approach utilized by HTM debt securities because AFS debtsecurities are measured at fair value rather than amortized cost.  Although ASC Topic 326 replaced the legacy other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”) modelwith a credit loss model, it retained the fundamental nature of the legacy OTTI model.  One notable change from the legacy OTTI model is when evaluatingwhether credit loss exists, an entity may no longer consider the length of time fair value has been less than amortized cost.  For AFS debt securities in anunrealized loss position, the Company first assesses whether it intends to sell, or it is more likely than not that it will be required to sell the security beforerecovery of its amortized cost basis.  The Company reviews its AFS debt securities for credit loss impairment at the individual security level on at least aquarterly basis. A security is impaired if its fair value is less than its amortized cost basis. A decline in fair value below amortized cost basis represents a creditloss impairment to the extent the Company does not expect to recover the amortized cost basis of the security. Impairment related to credit losses is recordedthrough the ACL to the extent fair value is less than the amortized cost basis. Declines in fair value that have not been recorded through the ACL are recordedthrough other comprehensive income, net of applicable taxes.In assessing whether an impairment is credit loss related, the Company compares the present value of cash flows expected to be collected to the security'samortized cost basis. If the present value of cash flows expected to be collected is less than the amortized cost basis of the security, a credit loss exists and anACL is recorded. The Company discounts expected cash flows at the effective interest rate implicit in the security at the purchase date, adjusted for expectedprepayments. For floating rate securities, the Company uses the floating rate as it changes over the life of the security. In developing estimates about cashflows expected to be collected and determining whether a credit loss exists, the Company considers information about past events, current conditions andreasonable and supportable forecasts. Factors and information that the Company uses in making its assessments include, but are not necessarily limited to, thefollowing:•The extent to which fair value is less than amortized cost;•Adverse conditions specifically related to the security, an industry or geographic area;•Changes in the financial condition of the issuer or underlying loan obligors;•The payment structure and remaining payment terms of the security, including levels of subordination or over-collateralization;•Failure of the issuer to make scheduled payments;•Changes in credit ratings;•Relevant market data;•Estimated prepayments, defaults, and the value and performance of underlying collateral at the individual security level. The relative importance assigned to each of these factors varies depending on the facts and circumstances pertinent to the individual security being evaluated.Timely payment of principal and interest on securities issued by the U.S. Government, U.S. government agencies and U.S. government sponsored entities isexplicitly or implicitly guaranteed by the U. S. government. Therefore, the Company expects to recover the amortized cost basis of these securities. If the Company intends to sell a security in an unrealized loss position, or it is more likely than not that the Company will be required to sell the security beforerecovery of its amortized cost basis, any allowance for credit losses will be written off and the amortized cost basis will be written down to the debt security’sfair value at the reporting date with any incremental impairment reported in earnings. AFS securities will be charged off to the extent that there is no reasonableexpectation of recovery of amortized cost basis. AFS securities will be placed on non-accrual status if the Company does not reasonably expect to receiveinterest payments in the future and interest accrued will be reversed against interest income. Securities will be returned to accrual status only when collection ofinterest is reasonably assured. LoansThe ACL is a valuation account that is deducted from the amortized cost basis of loans to present the net amount expected to be collected. The ACL is adjustedthrough the provision for credit losses to the amount of amortized cost basis not expected to be collected at the balance sheet date.The measurement of expected credit losses encompasses information about historical events, current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts.Determining the amount of the ACL is complex and requires extensive judgment by management about matters that are inherently uncertain. Re-evaluation ofthe ACL estimate in future periods, in light of changes in composition and characteristics of the loan portfolio, changes in the reasonable and supportableforecast and other factors then prevailing may result in material changes in the amount of the ACL and credit loss expense in those future periods.Loans are charged off against the ACL in the period in which they are deemed uncollectible and recoveries are credited to the ACL when received. Expectedrecoveries on loans previously charged off and expected to be charged-off, not to exceed the aggregate of amounts previously charged-off and expected to becharged-off, are included in the ACL estimate. Once loans are downgraded to substandard, an assessment of collateral value is made; any outstanding loanbalance in excess of fair value less cost to sell is charged off at no later than 180 days delinquency. Additionally, any outstanding balance in excess of fair valueof collateral less cost to sell is charged off when the asset is taken back by the Company. Commercial and other consumer loans are charged off when, inmanagement's judgment, they are considered to be uncollectible.Expected credit losses are estimated on a collective basis for groups of loans that share similar risk characteristics. Factors that may be considered inaggregating loans for this purpose include but are not necessarily limited to, product or collateral type, geography, and internal risk ratings. For loans that donot share similar risk characteristics with other loans such as collateral dependent loans, expected credit losses are estimated on an individual basis.Expected credit losses are estimated over the contractual terms of the loans, adjusted for expected prepayments. Expected prepayments are estimated using amodel that incorporates Company's prepayment data, calibrated to reflect the Company's experience. The contractual term excludes expected extensions,renewals, and modifications unless either of the following applies: management has a reasonable expectation at the reporting date that a loan identified as aborrower experiencing financial difficulty will be executed with an individual borrower or the extension or renewal options are included in the original ormodified contract at the reporting date and are not unconditionally cancellable by the Company. - 68 - The ACL estimate incorporates a reasonable and supportable economic forecast through the use of externally developed macroeconomic scenarios applied inthe model. The model include both current and forecasted unemployment rates.  Collateral dependent loansCollateral dependent loans are those for which the borrower is experiencing financial difficulty and repayment is expected to be provided substantially throughthe operation or sale of the collateral. These loans do not typically share similar risk characteristics with other loans and expected credit losses are evaluated onan individual basis. Loans evaluated individually are not included in the collective evaluation. Estimates of expected credit losses for collateral dependentloans, whether or not foreclosure is probable, are based on the fair value of the collateral, adjusted for selling costs when repayment depends on sale of thecollateral. Financing receivables whose borrowers are experiencing financial difficultyFor financing receivables whose borrowers are experiencing financial difficulty or loans for which there is a reasonable expectation that a financingreceivable whose borrowers are experiencing financial difficulty will be executed that are not collateral dependent, the credit loss estimate is determined bycomparing the net present value of expected cash flows, discounted at the loan’s original effective interest rate, to the amortized cost basis of the loan. Unfunded commitmentsExpected credit losses related to off-balance sheet credit exposures are estimated over the contractual period for which the Company is exposed to credit riskvia a contractual obligation to extend credit, unless that obligation is unconditionally cancellable by the Company. Expected credit losses are estimated usingessentially the same methodologies employed to estimate expected credit losses on the amortized cost basis of loans, taking into consideration the likelihoodand amount of additional amounts expected to be funded over the terms of the commitments. The liability for credit losses on off-balance sheet credit exposuresis presented within other liabilities on the consolidated statements of financial condition, distinct from the ACL. Adjustments to the liability are included in theprovision for credit losses.  i)Real Estate Owned Real estate owned consists of properties acquired through, or in lieu of, loan foreclosure.  Real estate owned is transferred into the portfolio at estimated netrealizable value, which includes selling costs.  To the extent that the net carrying value of the loan exceeds the estimated fair value of the property at the date oftransfer, the excess is charged to the allowance for loan losses within 90 days of being transferred.  Subsequent write-downs to reflect current fair value, as wellas gains and losses upon disposition and revenue and expenses incurred in maintaining such properties, are treated as period costs and included in real estateowned in the consolidated statements of operations.  j)Mortgage Servicing Rights The Company sells residential mortgage loans in the secondary market and, on a selective basis, retains the right to service the loans sold.  Upon sale, amortgage servicing rights asset is capitalized, which represents the then current fair value of future net cash flows expected to be realized for performingservicing activities.  Mortgage servicing rights, when purchased, are initially recorded at fair value.  Mortgage servicing rights are amortized over the period ofestimated net servicing income, and assessed for impairment at each reporting date. Mortgage servicing rights are carried at the lower of the initial capitalizedamount, net of accumulated amortization, or estimated fair value, and are included in other assets in the consolidated statements of financial condition. To theextent that the Company sells mortgage servicing rights, a gain is recognized for the amount of which sale proceeds exceed the remaining unamortized cost ofthe servicing rights that were sold. Gains on sale of mortgage servicing rights are included in other noninterest income in the consolidated statements ofoperations. - 69 -   k)Cash Surrender Value of Life Insurance The Company purchases bank owned life insurance on the lives of certain employees.  The Company is the beneficiary of the life insurance policies.  The cashsurrender value of life insurance is reported at the amount that would be received in cash if the polices were surrendered.  Increases in the cash value of thepolicies and proceeds of death benefits received are recorded in noninterest income.  The increase in cash surrender value of life insurance is not subject toincome taxes, as long as the Company has the intent and ability to hold the policies until the death benefits are received.  l)Office Properties and Equipment Office properties and equipment, including leasehold improvements and software, are stated at cost, net of depreciation and amortization. Depreciation andamortization are computed on the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the related assets. Leasehold improvements are amortized over thelease term, if shorter than the estimated useful life. Maintenance and repairs are charged to expense as incurred, while additions or major improvements arecapitalized and depreciated over their estimated useful lives. Estimated useful lives of the assets are 10 to 30 years for office properties, three years to 10 yearsfor equipment, and three years for software.  m)Income Taxes The Company and its subsidiaries file consolidated federal and combined state income tax returns. The provision for income taxes is based upon income in theconsolidated financial statements, rather than amounts reported on the income tax returns.  Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future taxconsequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases, aswell as net operating loss carry forwards.  Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in theyears in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled.  The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates isrecognized as income or expense in the period that includes the enactment date.   The Company evaluates the realizability of its deferred tax assets on a quarterly basis.  Under generally accepted accounting principles, a valuation allowanceis required to be recognized if it is “more likely than not” that a deferred tax asset will not be realized.  The determination of the realizability of the deferred taxassets is highly subjective and dependent upon judgment concerning management's evaluation of both positive and negative evidence, the forecasts of futureincome, applicable tax planning strategies, and assessments of current and future economic and business conditions. Positions taken in the Company’s tax returns may be subject to challenge by the taxing authorities upon examination.  The benefit of uncertain tax positions areinitially recognized in the consolidated financial statements only when it is more likely than not the position will be sustained upon examination by the taxauthorities.  Such tax positions are both initially and subsequently measured as the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realizedupon settlement with the tax authority, assuming full knowledge of the position and all relevant facts.   Interest and penalties on income tax uncertainties areclassified within income tax expense in the consolidated statements of operations.  n)Earnings Per Share Earnings per share (EPS) are computed using the two-class method.  Stock compensation awards that contain rights to receive nonforfeitable dividends prior tothe awards being vested are considered participating securities and, as such, included in the common shares outstanding. Basic earnings per share iscomputed by dividing net income allocated to common shareholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the applicableperiod, excluding outstanding participating securities.  Diluted earnings per share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted average number ofcommon shares outstanding adjusted for the dilutive effect of all potential common shares.  Diluted EPS reflects the potential dilution that could occur ifsecurities or other contracts to issue common stock were exercised.  Shares of the Employee Stock Ownership Plan committed to be released are consideredoutstanding for both common and diluted EPS.  o)Comprehensive Income (Loss) Comprehensive income (loss) is the total of reported net income and changes in unrealized gains or losses, net of tax (or benefit), on securities available forsale.  p)Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) Compensation expense under the ESOP is equal to the fair value of common shares released or committed to be released to participants in the ESOP in eachrespective period.  Common stock purchased by the ESOP and not committed to be released to participants is included in the consolidated statements offinancial condition at cost as a reduction of shareholders’ equity. - 70 -   q)Share Repurchases The Company has a share repurchase program. Repurchases under the repurchase program may be made in the open market, through block trades and othernegotiated transactions. The share repurchase program transactions take place primarily in open market transactions, subject to market conditions. There is nofixed termination date for the repurchase program, and the program may be suspended. Under Maryland law, shares repurchased are constituted as authorizedbut unissued.  The Company reduced the common stock at par value and to the extent the cost acquired exceeds par value, it is recorded through additionalpaid-in capital on the consolidated statements of financial condition and consolidated statements of changes in shareholders’ equity.  r)Revenue Recognition ASC 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (“ASC 606”), establishes principles for reporting information about the nature, amount, timing anduncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from the entity's contracts to provide goods or services to customers. The core principle requires an entity torecognize revenue to depict the transfer of goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration that it expects to be entitled to receive inexchange for those goods or services recognized as performance obligations are satisfied. The majority of the Company's revenue-generating transactions are not subject to ASC 606, including revenue generated from financial instruments, suchas loans, loans held for sale, investment securities, as well as revenue related to our mortgage servicing activities, as these activities are subject to other GAAPdiscussed elsewhere within the Company's disclosures. Descriptions of the Company's revenue-generating activities that are within the scope of ASC 606, which are presented in the consolidated income statementsas components of non-interest income are as follows: Service charges on deposit accounts - these represent general service fees for monthly account maintenance and activity- or transaction-based fees andconsist of transaction-based revenue, time-based revenue (service period), item-based revenue or some other individual attribute-based revenue. Revenue isrecognized when our performance obligation is completed, which is generally monthly for account maintenance services or when a transaction has beencompleted (such as a stop payment). Payments for these activities are generally received at the time the performance obligations are satisfied. Wealth management fee income - this represents monthly fees due from wealth management customers as consideration for managing the customers' assets.Wealth management investment management and similar fiduciary activities. These fees are typically paid to the Company on a monthly basis and recognizedas the performance obligation is satisfied each month. Other non-interest income includes items such as bank owned life insurance income, dividends on FHLB stock and other general operating income, none ofwhich are subject to the requirements of ASC 606. Also included in other-non-interest income are interchange fees earned when our debit and credit cardclients process transactions through card networks. The Company's performance obligations are generally complete when the transactions generating the feesare processed.  s)Impact of Recent Accounting Pronouncements  Accounting Standards Adopted in 2023 The Company adopted "Troubled Debt Restructurings and Vintage Disclosures" under ASC Topic 326 on January 1, 2023, and applied the standard'sprovisions. The impact going forward will depend on the credit quality of the loan portfolio as well as the economic conditions at future reporting periods. SeeNote 3 - Loans Receivable for the new disclosures. Adoption of "Troubled Debt Restructurings and Vintage Disclosures" under ASC Topic 326 did not have amaterial impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements. Accounting Standards Adopted in 2022 The Company adopted ASC Topic 326 on January 1, 2022, and applied the standard’s provisions as a cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings, asof January 1, 2022 (i.e., modified retrospective approach). Upon adoption of the standard, the Company recorded a $430,000 increase to the allowance for creditlosses and $1.4 million increase to the allowance for unfunded commitments, which resulted in a $1.4 million after-tax decrease to retained earnings asof January 1, 2022. The tax effect resulted in a $439,000 increase to deferred tax assets.  The Company did not record an allowance for AFS securities on January 1, 2022 as the investment portfolio consists primarily of debt securities explicitly orimplicitly backed by the U.S. Government for which credit risk is deemed minimal. The impact going forward will depend on the composition, characteristics,and credit quality of the loan and securities portfolios as well as the economic conditions at future reporting periods. See Note 2 - Securities Available forSale and Note 3 - Loans Receivable for more information. - 71 -    2)Securities Securities Available for SaleSecurities Available for Sale The amortized cost and fair value of the Company’s investment in securities follow:   December 31, 2023       Gross  Gross       Amortized  unrealized  unrealized       cost  gains  losses  Fair value   (In Thousands) Mortgage-backed securities $12,651  $5  $(1,475) $11,181 Collateralized mortgage obligations:                Government sponsored enterprise issued  152,700   212   (19,445)  133,467 Private-label issued  8,061   -   (801)  7,260 Mortgage-related securities  173,412   217   (21,721)  151,908                  Government sponsored enterprise bonds  2,500   -   (152)  2,348 Municipal securities  39,304   980   (796)  39,488 Other debt securities  12,500   -   (1,337)  11,163 Debt securities  54,304   980   (2,285)  52,999 Total $227,716  $1,197  $(24,006) $204,907    December 31, 2022       Gross  Gross       Amortized  unrealized  unrealized       cost  gains  losses  Fair value   (In Thousands) Mortgage-backed securities $15,134  $4  $(1,824) $13,314 Collateralized mortgage obligations:                Government sponsored enterprise issued  145,740   -   (20,975)  124,765 Private-label issued  9,041   -   (935)  8,106 Mortgage-related securities  169,915   4   (23,734)  146,185                  Government sponsored enterprise bonds  2,500   -   (244)  2,256 Municipal securities  37,699   428   (1,193)  36,934 Other debt securities  12,500   -   (1,338)  11,162 Debt securities  52,699   428   (2,775)  50,352 Other securities  51   -   -   51 Total $222,665  $432  $(26,509) $196,588  The Company’s mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage obligations issued by government sponsored enterprises are guaranteed by one of thefollowing government sponsored enterprises: Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac or Ginnie Mae. At December 31, 2023, $128.1 million of the Company’s mortgage relatedsecurities were pledged as collateral to secure funding from the Federal Reserve Bank's new borrowing facility. At December 31, 2023, $183,000 of theCompany's mortgage related securities were pledged as collateral to secure mortgage banking related activities.  At December 31, 2022, $259,000 of theCompany's mortgage related securities were pledged as collateral to secure mortgage banking related activities. The amortized cost and fair value of securities at December 31, 2023, by contractual maturity, are shown below. Expected maturities may differ from contractualmaturities because issuers or borrowers may have the right to prepay obligations with or without prepayment penalties.   December 31, 2023   Amortized       cost  Fair value   (In Thousands) Debt and other securities        Due within one year $7,380  $7,349 Due after one year through five years  10,890   10,907 Due after five years through ten years  19,658   18,613 Due after ten years  16,376   16,130 Mortgage-related securities  173,412   151,908 Total $227,716  $204,907  - 72 -  Gross unrealized losses on securities available for sale and the fair value of the related securities, aggregated by investment category and length of time thatindividual securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position, were as follows:   December 31, 2023   Less than 12 months  12 months or longer  Total   Fair  Unrealized  Fair  Unrealized  Fair  Unrealized   value  loss  value  loss  value  loss   (In Thousands) Mortgage-backed securities $215  $1  $10,682  $1,474  $10,897  $1,475 Collateralized mortgage obligations:                        Government sponsored enterprise issued  2,442   42   110,271   19,403   112,713   19,445 Private-label issued  -   -   6,250   801   6,250   801 Government sponsored enterprise bonds  -   -   2,348   152   2,348   152 Municipal securities  7,597   36   5,808   760   13,405   796 Other debt securities  -   -   11,163   1,337   11,163   1,337 Total $10,254  $79  $146,522  $23,927  $156,776  $24,006    December 31, 2022   Less than 12 months  12 months or longer  Total   Fair  Unrealized  Fair  Unrealized  Fair  Unrealized   value  loss  value  loss  value  loss   (In Thousands) Mortgage-backed securities $8,383  $655  $4,573  $1,169  $12,956  $1,824 Collateralized mortgage obligations:                        Government sponsored enterprise issued  65,270   6,400   59,495   14,575   124,765   20,975 Private-label issued  7,012   935   -   -   7,012   935 Government sponsored enterprise bonds  2,256   244   -   -   2,256   244 Municipal securities  18,648   192   4,095   1,001   22,743   1,193 Other debt securities  2,362   138   8,800   1,200   11,162   1,338 Total $103,931  $8,564  $76,963  $17,945  $180,894  $26,509  The Company reviews the investment securities portfolio on a quarterly basis to monitor securities in unrealized loss positions, which were comprisedof 147 individual securities, to determine whether the impairment is due to credit-related factors or noncredit-related factors. In making this evaluation,management considers the extent to which the fair value has been less than cost, the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer, and the intentand ability of the Company to hold the security for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in fair value. As of December 31,2023 and December 31, 2022, no allowance for credit losses on securities was recognized. The Company does not consider its securities with unrealized lossesto be attributable to credit-related factors, as the unrealized losses in each category have occurred as a result of changes in noncredit-related factors such aschanges in interest rates, market spreads and market conditions subsequent to purchase, not credit deterioration. Furthermore, the Company does not have theintent to sell any of these securities and believes that it is more likely than not that we will not have to sell any such securities before a recovery of cost. During the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021, there were no sales of securities. - 73 -   3)Loans Receivable Loans receivable at December 31, 2023 and 2022 are summarized as follows:   December 31,   2023  2022   (In Thousands) Mortgage loans:        Residential real estate:        One- to four-family $551,190  $469,567 Multi family  707,566   677,981 Home equity  13,228   11,455 Construction and land  53,371   62,494 Commercial real estate  300,892   262,973 Consumer  848   774 Commercial loans  37,120   24,934 Total loans receivable $1,664,215  $1,510,178  The Company provides several types of loans to its customers, including residential, construction, commercial and consumer loans.  Significant loanconcentrations are considered to exist for a financial institution when there are amounts loaned to one borrower or to multiple borrowers engaged in similaractivities that would cause them to be similarly impacted by economic or other conditions.  While credit risks tend to be geographically concentrated in theCompany’s Milwaukee metropolitan area and while 76.4% of the Company’s loan portfolio involves loans that are secured by residential real estate, there are noconcentrations with individual or groups of related borrowers.  While the real estate collateralizing these loans is primarily residential in nature, it ranges fromowner-occupied single family homes to large apartment complexes.  Qualifying loans receivable totaling $1.25 billion were pledged as collateral against $464.0 million and $976.7 million were pledged as collateral against$385.7 million in outstanding Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago advances under a blanket security agreement at December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022,respectively. Certain of the Company's executive officers, directors, employees, and their related interests have loans with the Bank. These loans to related parties aresummarized below:    December 31,   2023  2022   (In Thousands) Balance at beginning of year $2,847  $2,456 New Loans  637   733 Repayments  (165)  (342)Balance at end of year $3,319  $2,847   - 74 -  An analysis of past due loans receivable as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 follows:   As of December 31, 2023   1-59 Days PastDue (1)  60-89 Days PastDue (2)  90 Days orGreater PastDue  Total Past Due  Current (3)  Total Loans   (In Thousands) Mortgage loans:                        Residential real estate:                        One- to four-family $5,265  $1,283  $4,270  $10,818  $540,372  $551,190 Multi family  -   6   -   6   707,560   707,566 Home equity  209   -   34   243   12,985   13,228 Construction and land  -   -   -   -   53,371   53,371 Commercial real estate  54   -   129   183   300,709   300,892 Consumer  -   -   -   -   848   848 Commercial loans  -   -   -   -   37,120   37,120 Total $5,528  $1,289  $4,433  $11,250  $1,652,965  $1,664,215    As of December 31, 2022   1-59 Days PastDue (1)  60-89 Days PastDue (2)  90 Days orGreater PastDue  Total Past Due  Current (3)  Total Loans   (In Thousands) Mortgage loans:                        Residential real estate:                        One- to four-family $2,328  $-  $3,618  $5,946  $463,621  $469,567 Multi family  -   -   -   -   677,981   677,981 Home equity  14   -   65   79   11,376   11,455 Construction and land  -   -   -   -   62,494   62,494 Commercial real estate  -   233   -   233   262,740   262,973 Consumer  -   -   -   -   774   774 Commercial loans  3   -   -   3   24,931   24,934 Total $2,345  $233  $3,683  $6,261  $1,503,917  $1,510,178  (1)Includes $193,000 and $- for December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, which are on non-accrual status.(2)Includes $11,000 and $- for December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, which are on non-accrual status.(3)Includes $171,000 and $624,000 for December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, which are on non-accrual status. - 75 -  The Company currently manages the loan portfolios and the respective exposure to credit losses (credit risk) by the following specific portfolio segments,which are levels at which we develop and document our systematic methodology to determine the allowance for credit losses attributable to each respectiveportfolio segment. These segments are as follows: One- to four-family residential mortgage loans – This residential real estate sub-segment contains permanent mortgage loans principally to consumers securedby residential real estate. Residential real estate loans are evaluated for the adequacy of repayment sources at the time of approval, based upon measuresincluding credit scores, debt-to-income ratios and collateral values. Credit risk arises from the borrower’s continuing financial stability, which can be adverselyimpacted by job loss, divorce, illness or personal bankruptcy, among other factors. Also impacting credit risk would be a shortfall in the value of the residentialreal estate in relation to the outstanding loan balance in the event of a default or subsequent liquidation of the real estate collateral. Multi family residential real estate loans – Multi family real estate loans consist of multifamily rentals with a history of occupancy and cash flow. This segmentincludes both internally originated and purchased participation loans. These loans carry the risk of adverse changes in the local economy and a tenant’sdeteriorating credit strength, lease expirations in soft markets and sustained vacancies, which can adversely impact cash flow. Home equity residential mortgage loans – This segment includes sub-segment for senior lien and subordinate lien lines of credit. Credit risk is similar toresidential real estate loans described above as it is subject to the borrower’s continuing financial stability and the value of the collateral securing the loan. Construction and land loans – Construction and land loans are intended to finance the construction of commercial and residential properties, including theconstruction of single-family dwellings, and also includes loans for the acquisition and development of land. Construction lending generally involves a greaterdegree of risk than other residential mortgage lending.  The repayment of the construction loan is, to a great degree, dependent upon the successful and timelycompletion of the construction of the subject property within specified cost limits.  The Company completes inspections during the construction phase prior toany disbursements.  The Company limits its risk during the construction as disbursements are not made until the required work for each advance has beencompleted.  Construction delays may further impair the borrower’s ability to repay the loan. Commercial real estate loans – Commercial real estate loans consist of non-owner occupied properties, such as investment properties for retail, and office with ahistory of occupancy and cash flow. This segment includes both internally originated loans.  Commercial real estate loans often involve large loan balances tosingle borrowers or groups of related borrowers. Payments on these loans depend to a large degree on the results of operations and management of theproperties or underlying businesses, and may be affected to a greater extent by adverse conditions in the real estate market or the economy in general.Accordingly, the nature of commercial real estate loans makes them more difficult for management to monitor and evaluate. Consumer loans – This segment of loans includes primarily installment loans and personal lines of credit. Consumer loans generally involve greater credit riskthan residential mortgage loans because of the difference in the nature of the underlying collateral.  Repossessed collateral for a defaulted consumer loan maynot provide an adequate source of repayment of the outstanding loan balance because of the greater likelihood of damage, loss or depreciation in theunderlying collateral. The remaining deficiency often does not warrant further substantial collection efforts against the borrower beyond obtaining a deficiencyjudgment. In addition, consumer loan collections depend on the borrower’s personal financial stability. As such, these loans are subject to a higher risk ofdefault than the typical consumer loan. Commercial loans – Commercial loans are made to provide funds for equipment and general corporate needs, as well as to finance owner-occupied real estate.Repayment of these loans primarily uses the funds obtained from the operation of the borrower’s business. Commercial loans also include lines of credit thatare utilized to finance a borrower’s short-term credit needs and/or to finance a percentage of eligible receivables and inventory. This segment includes bothinternally originated and purchased participation loans. Credit risk arises from the successful operation of the business, which may be affected by competition,rising interest rates, regulatory changes and adverse conditions in the local and regional economy. As of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, there were no loans that were 90 or more days past due and still accruing interest.  - 76 -  A summary of the activity for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 in the allowance for credit losses - loans follows:   One- to Four-Family  Multi Family  Home Equity  Constructionand Land  CommercialReal Estate  Consumer  Commercial  Total   (In Thousands) Year ended December 31, 2023                                Balance at beginning of period $4,743  $7,975  $174  $1,352  $3,199  $47  $267  $17,757 Provision (credit) for credit losses- loans (1)  2,259   (665)  33   (372)  (641)  46   267   927 Charge-offs  (168)  -   -   -   -   (37)  -   (205)Recoveries  52   8   4   3   3   -   -   70 Balance at end of period $6,886  $7,318  $211  $983  $2,561  $56  $534  $18,549                                  Year ended December 31, 2022                                Balance at beginning of period $3,963  $5,398  $89  $1,386  $4,482  $33  $427  $15,778 Adoption of CECL $88  $100  $58  $886  $(640) $7  $(69) $430 Provision (credt) for loanlosses  918   1,750   9   (923)  (656)  23   (91)  1,030 Charge-offs  (304)  -   -   -   -   (16)  -   (320)Recoveries  78   727   18   3   13   -   -   839 Balance at end of period $4,743  $7,975  $174  $1,352  $3,199  $47  $267  $17,757                                  Year ended December 31, 2021                                Balance at beginning of period $5,459  $5,600  $194  $1,755  $5,138  $35  $642  $18,823 Provision (credit) for loanlosses  (2,294)  (318)  (121)  (408)  (650)  16   (215)  (3,990)Charge-offs  (151)  -   -   (13)  (10)  (18)  -   (192)Recoveries  949   116   16   52   4   -   -   1,137 Balance at end of period $3,963  $5,398  $89  $1,386  $4,482  $33  $427  $15,778  (1) The Company adopted ASU 2016-13 as of January 1, 2022. The 2021 amounts presented are calculated under the prior accounting standard.  The Company utilized the Vintage Loss Rate method in determining expected future credit losses for each of the loan categories except for the Construction andConsumer categories. This technique considers losses over the full life cycle of loan pools. A vintage is a group of loans originated in the same annual timeperiod. The loss rate method measures the amount of loan charge–offs, net of recoveries, (“loan losses”) recognized over the life of a pool by loan segmentand vintage and compares those loan losses to the original loan balance of that pool as of a similar vintage. Additionally, the weighted average remaining maturity ("WARM") method is used for the Construction and Consumer loan pools. The WARM methodconsiders an estimate of expected credit losses over the remaining life of the financial assets and uses average annual charge-off rates to estimate theallowance for credit losses. For amortizing assets, the remaining contractual life is adjusted by the expected scheduled payments and prepayments. Theaverage annual charge-off rate is applied to the amortization-adjusted remaining life to determine the unadjusted lifetime historical charge-off rate. To estimate a CECL loss rate for the pool, management first identifies the loan losses recognized between the pool date and the reporting date for the pool anddetermines which loan losses were related to loans outstanding at the pool date. The loss rate method then divides the loan losses recognized on loansoutstanding as of the pool date by the outstanding loan balance as of the pool date. The Company’s expected loss estimate is anchored in historical credit loss experience, with an emphasis on all available portfolio data. The Company'shistorical look–back period includes 2012 through the current period, on an annual basis. When historical credit loss experience is not sufficient for a specificportfolio, the Company may supplement its own portfolio data with external models or data. Qualitative reserves reflect management’s overall estimate of the extent to which current expected credit losses on collectively evaluated loans will differ fromhistorical loss experience. The analysis takes into consideration other analytics performed within the organization, such as enterprise and concentrationmanagement, along with other credit–related analytics as deemed appropriate. Management attempts to quantify qualitative reserves whenever possible. TheCECL methodology applied focuses on evaluation of qualitative and environmental factors, including but not limited to: (i) evaluation of facts and issuesrelated to specific loans; (ii) management’s ongoing review and grading of the loan portfolio; (iii) consideration of historical loan loss and delinquencyexperience on each portfolio segment; (iv) trends in past due and nonperforming loans; (v) the risk characteristics of the various loan segments; (vi) changes inthe size and character of the loan portfolio; (vii) concentrations of loans to specific borrowers or industries; (viii) existing economic conditions; (ix) the fairvalue of underlying collateral; and (x) other qualitative and quantitative factors which could affect expected credit losses. The Company’s CECL estimate applies a forecast that incorporates macroeconomic trends and other environmental factors. Management utilized national,regional and local leading economic indexes, as well as management judgment, as the basis for the forecast period. The historical loss rate was utilized as thebase rate, and qualitative adjustments were utilized to reflect the forecast and other relevant factors. The Company segments the loan portfolio into pools based on the following risk characteristics: collateral type, credit characteristics, loan origination balance,and outstanding loan balances. - 77 -  Allowance for Credit Losses-Unfunded Commitments:In addition to the ACL-Loans, the Company has established an ACL-Unfunded commitments, classified in other liabilities on the consolidated statements offinancial condition. This reserve is maintained at a level that management believes is sufficient to absorb losses arising from unfunded loan commitments, andis determined quarterly based on methodology similar to the methodology for determining the ACL-Loans. The allowance for unfunded commitments atDecember 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022 was $1.1 million and $1.3 million. Provision for Credit Losses:The provision for credit losses is determined by the Company as the amount to be added to the ACL loss accounts for various types of financial instrumentsincluding loans, investment securities, and unfunded commitment credit exposures after net charge-offs have been deducted to bring the ACL to a level that, inmanagement's judgment, is necessary to absorb expected credit losses over the lives of the respective financial instruments. See Note 2 - Securities Availablefor Sale for additional information regarding the ACL related to investment securities. The following table presents the components of the provision for creditlosses.   Years ended December 31,   2023  2022  2021   (In Thousands) Provision (credit) for credit losses - loans (1) on:            Loans $927  $1,030  $(3,990)Unfunded commitments  (271)  (62)  - Investment securities  -   -   - Total $656  $968  $(3,990) (1) The Company adopted ASU 2016-13 as of January 1, 2022. The 2021 amounts presented are calculated under the prior accounting standard.  Collateral Dependent Loans:A loan is considered to be collateral dependent when, based upon management's assessment, the borrower is experiencing financial difficulty and repayment isexpected to be provided substantially through the operation or sale of the collateral. For collateral dependent loans, expected credit losses are based on theestimated fair value of the collateral at the balance sheet date, with consideration for estimated selling costs if satisfaction of the loan depends on the sale ofthe collateral. The following tables present collateral dependent loans by portfolio segment and collateral type, including those loans with and without a relatedallowance allocation. A summary of the allowance for loan loss for loans evaluated individually and collectively for impairment by collateral class as of the year ended December 31,2023 follows:   One- toFour- Family  Multi Family  Home Equity  Constructionand Land  CommercialReal Estate  Consumer  Commercial  Total December 31, 2023 (In Thousands) Allowance related tocollateral dependentloans $-  $-  $-  $-  $-  $-  $-  $- Allowance related topooled loans  6,886   7,318   211   983   2,561   56   534   18,549 Allowance at end ofperiod $6,886  $7,318  $211  $983  $2,561  $56  $534  $18,549                                  Collateral dependentloans $2,209  $-  $90  $-  $5,493  $-  $1,536  $9,328 Pooled loans  548,981   707,566   13,138   53,371   295,399   848   35,584   1,654,887 Total gross loans $551,190  $707,566  $13,228  $53,371  $300,892  $848  $37,120  $1,664,215  The Company's procedures dictate that an updated valuation must be obtained with respect to underlying collateral at the time a loan is deemed impaired.Updated valuations may also be obtained upon transfer from loans receivable to real estate owned based upon the age of the prior appraisal, changes in marketconditions or known changes to the physical condition of the property. Estimated fair values are reduced to account for sales commissions, broker fees, unpaid property taxes and additional selling expenses to arrive at an estimatednet realizable value. The adjustment factor is based upon the Company's actual experience with respect to sales of real estate owned over the prior two years. Insituations in which the Company is placing reliance on an appraisal that is more than one year old, an additional adjustment factor is applied to account fordownward market pressure since the date of appraisal. The additional adjustment factor is based upon relevant sales data available for our general operatingmarket as well as company-specific historical net realizable values as compared to the most recent appraisal prior to disposition. With respect to multi-family income-producing real estate, appraisals are reviewed and estimated collateral values are adjusted by updating significant appraisalassumptions to reflect current real estate market conditions. Significant assumptions reviewed and updated include the capitalization rate, rental income andoperating expenses. These adjusted assumptions are based upon recent appraisals received on similar properties as well as on actual experience related to realestate owned and currently under Company management. - 78 -  A summary of the allowance for loan loss for loans evaluated individually and collectively for impairment by collateral class as of the year ended December 31,2022 follows:   One- to Four-Family  Multi Family  Home Equity  Constructionand Land  CommercialReal Estate  Consumer  Commercial  Total December 31, 2022 (In Thousands) Allowance related to loansindividually evaluated forimpairment $-  $-  $-  $-  $-  $-  $-  $- Allowance related to loanscollectively evaluated forimpairment  4,743   7,975   174   1,352   3,199   47   267   17,757 Balance at end of period $4,743  $7,975  $174  $1,352  $3,199  $47  $267  $17,757                                  Loans individually evaluated forimpairment $2,584  $-  $40  $-  $5,455  $-  $-  $8,079 Loans collectively evaluated forimpairment  466,983   677,981   11,415   62,494   257,518   774   24,934   1,502,099 Total gross loans $469,567  $677,981  $11,455  $62,494  $262,973  $774  $24,934  $1,510,178  The Company's procedures dictate that an updated valuation must be obtained with respect to underlying collateral at the time a loan is deemed impaired.Updated valuations may also be obtained upon transfer from loans receivable to real estate owned based upon the age of the prior appraisal, changes in marketconditions or known changes to the physical condition of the property. Estimated fair values are reduced to account for sales commissions, broker fees, unpaid property taxes and additional selling expenses to arrive at an estimatednet realizable value. The adjustment factor is based upon the Company's actual experience with respect to sales of real estate owned over the prior two years. Insituations in which the Company is placing reliance on an appraisal that is more than one year old, an additional adjustment factor is applied to account fordownward market pressure since the date of appraisal. The additional adjustment factor is based upon relevant sales data available for the Company's generaloperating market as well as company-specific historical net realizable values as compared to the most recent appraisal prior to disposition. With respect to multi-family income-producing real estate, appraisals are reviewed and estimated collateral values are adjusted by updating significant appraisalassumptions to reflect current real estate market conditions. Significant assumptions reviewed and updated include the capitalization rate, rental income andoperating expenses. These adjusted assumptions are based upon recent appraisals received on similar properties as well as on actual experience related to realestate owned and currently under Company management. - 79 -  Credit Quality Indicators The Company categorizes loans into risk categories based on relevant information about the ability of borrowers to service their debt such as: current financialinformation, historical payment experience, credit documentation, public information, and current economic trends, among other factors.  The Companyestablishes a risk rating at origination for all commercial loan and commercial real estate relationships.  For relationships over $1.0 million, management monitorsthe loans on an ongoing basis for any changes in the borrower’s ability to service their debt.  Factors that are important to managing overall credit qualityinclude sound loan underwriting and administration, systematic monitoring of existing loans and commitments, effective loan review on an ongoing basis, earlyidentification of potential problems, an allowance for credit losses, and sound non-accrual and charge-off policies.  The Company's underwriting policiesrequire an officers' loan committee review and approval of all loans in excess of $500,000 except for residential loans which has an approval limit in excess of$1.0 million.  A member of the credit department, independent of the loan originator, performs a loan review for all loans. The Company's ability to manage creditrisk depends in large part on the Company's ability to properly identify and manage problem loans. To do so, the Company maintains a loan review systemunder which the credit management personnel review non-owner occupied one- to four-family, multi-family, construction and land, and commercial real estate that individually, or as part of an overall borrower relationship exceed $1.0 million in potential exposure and review commercial loans that individually, or as partof an overall borrower relationship exceed $200,000 in potential exposure.  Loans meeting these criteria are reviewed on an annual basis, or more frequently, ifthe loan renewal is less than one year.  With respect to this review process, management has determined that pass loans include loans that exhibit acceptablefinancial statements, cash flow and leverage.  The Company uses the following definitions for risk ratings: Watch. Loans classified as watch have a potential weakness that deserves management’s close attention.  If left uncorrected, these potentialweaknesses may result in deterioration of the repayment prospects for the loan or of the institution’s credit position at some future date.  Watch assetsare not adversely classified and do not expose an institution to sufficient risk to warrant adverse classification. Substandard. Loans classified as substandard are inadequately protected by the current net worth and paying capacity of the obligor or of the collateralpledged, if any.  Loans so classified have a well-defined weakness or weaknesses that jeopardize the liquidation of the debt and, additionally, the weakness orweaknesses to make collection or liquidation in full, on the basis of currently existing facts, conditions, and values, highly questionable or improbable.Substandard loans are characterized by the distinct possibility that the institution will sustain some loss if the deficiencies are not corrected. Loans not meeting the criteria above that are analyzed individually as part of the above described process are considered to be pass rated loans. The following table presents information relating to the Company’s internal risk ratings of its loans receivable as of December 31, 2023 and 2022:   One- to Four-Family  Multi Family  Home Equity  Constructionand Land  CommercialReal Estate  Consumer  Commercial  Total   (In Thousands) At December 31, 2023                                Substandard $4,503  $-  $90  $-  $5,492  $-  $1,536  $11,621 Watch  7,585  $383  $-  $-  $-  $-  $-  $7,968 Pass  539,102   707,183   13,138   53,371   295,400   848   35,584   1,644,626 Total $551,190  $707,566  $13,228  $53,371  $300,892  $848  $37,120  $1,664,215                                  At December 31, 2022                                Substandard $4,209  $-  $98  $-  $5,454  $-  $61  $9,822 Watch  5,696   192   96   2,227   5,203   -   2,023   15,437 Pass  459,662   677,789   11,261   60,267   252,316   774   22,850   1,484,919 Total  469,567   677,981   11,455   62,494   262,973   774   24,934   1,510,178   - 80 -  Credit Quality Information:The following table presents total loans by risk categories and year of origination as of December 31, 2023.   2023  2022  2021  2020  2019  Prior  Revolving  Total   (In Thousands) One- to four-family                                Pass $196,255  $166,555  $46,378  $33,295  $19,966  $75,726  $927  $539,102 Watch  5,093   713   -   -   -   1,779   -   7,585 Substandard  1,450   353   -   -   -   2,700   -   4,503 Total  202,798   167,621   46,378   33,295   19,966   80,205   927   551,190                                  Multi-family                                Pass  122,289   214,074   135,823   117,669   44,878   71,632   818   707,183 Watch  191   6   -   -   -   186   -   383 Substandard  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   - Total  122,480   214,080   135,823   117,669   44,878   71,818   818   707,566                                  Home equity                                Pass  1,084   255   161   98   87   342   11,111   13,138 Watch  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   - Substandard  -   18   17   -   -   -   55   90 Total  1,084   273   178   98   87   342   11,166   13,228                                  Construction and land                                Pass  38,079   1,348   9,349   2,146   2,255   194   -   53,371 Watch  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   - Substandard  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   - Total  38,079   1,348   9,349   2,146   2,255   194   -   53,371                                  Commercial Real Estate                                Pass  70,677   76,067   62,922   33,436   19,250   31,673   1,375   295,400 Watch  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   - Substandard  5,277   129   -   86   -   -   -   5,492 Total  75,954   76,196   62,922   33,522   19,250   31,673   1,375   300,892                                  Consumer                                Pass  -   -   -   -   -   -   848   848 Watch  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   - Substandard  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   - Total  -   -   -   -   -   -   848   848                                  Commercial                                Pass  17,019   1,631   904   2,668   80   5,435   7,847   35,584 Watch  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   - Substandard  -   48   -   -   13   -   1,475   1,536 Total  17,019   1,679   904   2,668   93   5,435   9,322   37,120                                  Total loans $457,414  $461,197  $255,554  $189,398  $86,529  $189,667  $24,456  $1,664,215                                  Gross charge-offs $168  $-  $-  $-  $-  $-  $37  $205   - 81 -  The following table presents total loans by risk categories and year of origination as of December 31, 2022.    2022  2021  2020  2019  2018  Prior  Revolving  Total   (In Thousands) One- to four-family                                Pass $246,437  $55,494  $37,438  $21,813  $20,580  $76,568  $1,332  $459,662 Watch  4,823   -   -   -   -   873   -   5,696 Substandard  218   1,255   519   -   -   2,217   -   4,209 Total  251,478   56,749   37,957   21,813   20,580   79,658   1,332   469,567                                  Multi-family                                Pass  255,100   144,731   139,386   44,221   22,689   70,905   757   677,789 Watch  -   -   -   -   -   192   -   192 Substandard  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   - Total  255,100   144,731   139,386   44,221   22,689   71,097   757   677,981                                  Home equity                                Pass  290   81   865   104   174   82   9,665   11,261 Watch  -   96   -   -   -   -   -   96 Substandard  22   18   -   -   -   -   58   98 Total  312   195   865   104   174   82   9,723   11,455                                  Construction and land                                Pass  2,958   49,092   2,308   5,690   123   96   -   60,267 Watch  -   -   -   2,227   -   -   -   2,227 Substandard  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   - Total  2,958   49,092   2,308   7,917   123   96   -   62,494                                  Commercial Real Estate                                Pass  87,971   53,788   39,015   24,795   21,467   24,595   685   252,316 Watch  1,616   -   95   2,226   1,266   -   -   5,203 Substandard  -   -   -   -   5,454   -   -   5,454 Total  89,587   53,788   39,110   27,021   28,187   24,595   685   262,973                                  Consumer                                Pass  19   -   -   -   -   -   755   774 Watch  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   - Substandard  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   - Total  19   -   -   -   -   -   755   774                                  Commercial                                Pass  9,385   1,228   1,256   240   936   5,622   4,183   22,850 Watch  -   -   1,928   -   -   92   3   2,023 Substandard  61   -   -   -   -   -   -   61 Total  9,446   1,228   3,184   240   936   5,714   4,186   24,934                                  Total Loans $608,900  $305,783  $222,810  $101,316  $72,689  $181,242  $17,438  $1,510,178   - 82 -  The following presents data on restructurings of financing receivables whose borrowers are experiencing financial difficulty:   As of December 31, 2023   Accruing  Non-accruing  Total   Amount  Number  Amount  Number  Amount  Number   (Dollars in Thousands) One- to four-family $-   -  $543   2  $543   2   $-   -  $543   2  $543   2  The following presents data on troubled debt restructurings:   As of December 31, 2022   Accruing  Non-accruing  Total   Amount  Number  Amount  Number  Amount  Number   (Dollars in Thousands) One- to four-family $-   -  $936   4  $936   4   $-   -  $936   4  $936   4  Financing receivables whose borrowers are experiencing financial difficulty involve granting concessions to a borrower experiencing financial difficulty bymodifying the terms of the loan in an effort to avoid foreclosure.  Typical restructured terms include six months to twelve months of principal forbearance, areduction in interest rate or both.  In no instances have the restructured terms included a reduction of outstanding principal balance.  At December 31, 2023,$543,000 in loans had been modified in financing receivables whose borrowers are experiencing financial difficulty, all of which were included in the non-accrualtotal. All loans that have been modified in a financing receivable whose borrowers are experiencing financial difficulty are considered to be impaired.  As such, ananalysis has been performed with respect to all of these loans to determine the need for an ACL.  When a loan is expected to perform in accordance with therestructured terms and ultimately return to and perform under contract terms, a valuation allowance is established equal to the excess of the present value ofthe expected future cash flows under the original contract terms as compared with the modified terms, including an estimated default rate.  When there is doubtas to the borrower’s ability to perform under the restructured terms or ultimately return to and perform under market terms, an ACL is established equal to theimpairment when the carrying amount exceeds fair value of the underlying collateral.   If an updated credit department review indicates no other evidence of elevated credit risk and the borrower completes a minimum of six consecutive contractualpayments, the loan is returned to accrual status at that time. The following presents restructurings of financing receivables whose borrowers are experiencing financial difficulty by concession type   As of December 31, 2023   Performing in accordance withmodified terms  In Default  Total   Amount  Number  Amount  Number  Amount  Number   (Dollars in Thousands) Interest reduction and principal forebearance $-   -  $-   -  $-   - Interest reduction  15   1   -   -   15   1 Principal forebearance  528   1   -   -   528   1 Total $543   2  $-   -  $543   2  The following presents troubled debt restructurings by concession type:   As of December 31, 2022   Performing in accordance withmodified terms  In Default  Total   Amount  Number  Amount  Number  Amount  Number   (Dollars in Thousands) Interest reduction and principal forebearance $399   2  $-   -  $399   2 Interest reduction  18   1   -   -   18   1 Principal forebearance  519   1   -   -   519   1 Total $936   4  $-   -  $936   4  - 83 -  There was one restructuring for $528,000 of financing receivables whose borrowers are experiencing financial difficulty during the year ended December 31,2023.  There was one loan modified as a troubled debt restructuring with a total balance of $63,000 during the year ended December 31, 2022.  There were no restructurings of financing receivables whose borrowers are experiencing financial difficulty within the past twelve months of which there was adefault during the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 The following table presents data on non-accrual loans:   As of December 31,   2023  2022   (Dollars in Thousands) Residential        One- to four-family $4,503  $4,209 Multi family  -   - Home equity  90   98 Construction and land  -   - Commercial real estate  215   - Commercial  -   - Consumer  -   - Total non-accrual loans $4,808  $4,307          Total non-accrual loans to total loans  0.29%  0.29%Total non-accrual loans to total assets  0.22%  0.21% Residential one- to four-family mortgage loans that were in the process of foreclosure were $250,000 and $795,000 at December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022,respectively. 4)Office Properties and Equipment Office properties and equipment are summarized as follows:   December 31,   2023  2022   (In Thousands) Land $7,454  $7,516 Office buildings and improvements  34,275   34,084 Furniture and equipment  12,990   13,000 Total  54,719   54,600 Less accumulated depreciation  (34,724)  (33,495)Total, net $19,995  $21,105  Depreciation of premises and equipment totaled $1.7 million, $1.8 million and $2.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. - 84 -        5)Mortgage Servicing Rights The following table presents the activity related to the Company’s mortgage servicing rights included in prepaid and other assets on the consolidatedstatement of financial condition:   Year ended December 31,   2023  2022   (In Thousands) Mortgage servicing rights at beginning of the year $3,444  $1,555 Additions  1,773   2,461 Amortization  (319)  (579)Sales  (2,767)  - Mortgage servicing rights at end of the year  2,131   3,437 Valuation allowance during the year  (320)  7 Mortgage servicing rights at the end of the year, net $1,811  $3,444  During the year ended December 31, 2023, on a consolidated basis, $2.02 billion in residential loans were originated for sale, which excludes the loans originatedfrom Waterstone Mortgage Corporation and purchased by WaterStone Bank. During the same period, sales of loans held for sale totaled $1.99 billion,generating mortgage banking income of $75.7 million. The unpaid principal balance of loans serviced for others was $238.7 million and $409.6 million atDecember 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022 respectively. Loans serviced for others are not reflected in the consolidated statements of financial condition. The fair value of mortgage servicing rights was $2.2 million at December 31, 2023 and $5.0 million at December 31, 2022. During the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company sold mortgage servicing rights related to $318.4 billion in loans serviced for third parties which had abook value of $2.9 million. The sale generated $3.5 million in net proceeds and a $583,000 gain. During the year ended December 31, 2022, the Company sold nomortgage servicing rights. The following table shows the estimated future amortization expense for mortgage servicing rights at December 31, 2023 for the years ending December 31periods as indicated:   (In Thousands) 2024 $329 2025  243 2026  228 2027  201 2028  176 Thereafter  634 Total $1,811  - 85 -   6)Deposits The aggregate amount of time deposit accounts with the portion of the account balances that are greater than $250,000 at December 31, 2023 and 2022amounted to $131.4 million and $115.5 million, respectively. A summary of interest expense on deposits is as follows:   Years ended December 31,   2023  2022  2021   (In Thousands) Interest-bearing demand deposits $82  $61  $50 Money market and savings deposits  4,529   1,201   904 Time deposits  21,127   3,601   3,466   $25,738  $4,863  $4,420  A summary of the contractual maturities of time deposits at December 31, 2023 is as follows:   (In Thousands) Within one year $622,420 More than one to two years  102,284 More than two to three years  4,444 More than three to four years  763 More than four through five years  373   $730,284  Certain directors and executive officers, including their immediate families and companies in which they are principal owners, are depositors of the Corporation.Such deposits amounted to $9.0 million at December 31, 2023 and $9.2 million at December 31, 2022.  - 86 -  7)Borrowings Borrowings consist of the following: December 31, 2023                          CategoryTerm Amount  Maturity  Rate RateType Callable/Putable  Call Start Date  Frequency  (Dollars in Thousands) FHLB advances                           Long-term $50,000  December 14,2027   1.73%Fixed Putable  December 14,2019  Single  Long-term  10,000  August 7, 2028   3.51%Fixed Putable  December 7,2023  Quarterly  Long-term  10,000  August 8, 2028   3.52%Fixed Putable  December 8,2023  Quarterly  Long-term  10,000  October 10, 2028   3.49%Fixed Putable  November 10,2023  Quarterly  Long-term  10,000  October 10, 2028   3.49%Fixed Putable  November 10,2023  Quarterly  Long-term  10,000  November 3,2028   3.46%Fixed Putable  December 4,2023  Quarterly  Long-term  10,000  November 6,2028   3.47%Fixed Putable  December 6,2023  Quarterly  Long-term  15,000  November 14,2028   3.39%Fixed  Putable   December 14,2023   Quarterly  Long-term  10,000  November 29,2028   3.38%Fixed  Putable   December 29,2023   Quarterly  Long-term  10,000  November 29,2028   3.43%Fixed  Putable   January 29,2024   Quarterly  Long-term  10,000  December 4,2028   3.31%Fixed  Putable   January 4,2023   Quarterly Total FHLB long-term advances  155,000       2.89%              Short-term  60,000  January 2, 2024   5.44%Fixed  N/A   N/A   N/A  Short-term  20,000  January 2, 2024   5.45%Fixed  N/A   N/A   N/A  Short-term  20,000  January 5, 2024   5.48%Fixed  N/A   N/A   N/A  Short-term  20,500  January 8, 2024   5.38%Fixed  N/A   N/A   N/A  Short-term  18,000  January 8, 2024   5.38%Fixed  N/A   N/A   N/A  Short-term  14,000  January 16, 2024   5.49%Fixed  N/A   N/A   N/A  Short-term  21,000  January 22, 2024   5.36%Fixed  N/A   N/A   N/A  Short-term  33,000  January 29, 2024   5.36%Fixed  N/A   N/A   N/A  Short-term 27,500  February 20,2024   5.41%Fixed  N/A   N/A   N/A  Short-term  27,000  February 27,2024   5.42%Fixed  N/A   N/A   N/A  Short-term 24,500  March 13, 2024   5.39%Fixed  N/A   N/A   N/A  Short-term  23,500  December 29,2024   4.79%Fixed  N/A   N/A   N/A Total FHLB short-term advances  309,000       5.37%             Total FHLB advances  464,000       4.54%                                        Short-Term Borrowings                          Federal reserve bankShort-term $145,000  December 31,2024   4.83%Fixed  N/A   N/A   N/A                            Total Federal reserve bank $145,000       4.83%             Repurchase agreementsRevolving $2,054   N/A   8.20%Variable  N/A   N/A   N/A Total short-term borrowings $147,054       4.88%             Total borrowings $611,054       4.62%              - 87 -   December 31, 2022               CategoryTermAmountMaturityRate RateTypeCallable/PutableStart DateFrequency (Dollars in Thousands)FHLB advances                Long-term$50,000September 22,2025 3.50%FixedPutableSeptember 20,2023Single Long-term 50,000December 14, 2027 1.73%FixedPutableDecember 16, 2019Single Long-term 25,000November 3, 2025 4.09%FixedPutableNovember 1, 2023Quarterly Long-term 25,000November 7, 2025 4.25%FixedPutableNovember 7, 2023Quarterly Long-term 25,000November 24,2025 3.82%FixedPutableMay 22, 2023Quarterly Long-term 25,000December 1, 2032 2.35%FixedPutableMarch 1, 2023QuarterlyTotal FHLB long-term advances 200,000   3.12%        Short-term 7,700January 9, 2023 4.16%Fixed N/A N/A N/A Short-term 25,000January 23, 2023 4.23%Fixed N/A N/A N/A Short-term 20,000January 23, 2023 4.23%Fixed N/A N/A N/A Short-term 48,000January 30, 2023 4.25%Fixed N/A N/A N/A Short-term 20,000January 6, 2023 4.29%Fixed N/A N/A N/A Short-term 50,000January 6, 2023 4.29%Fixed N/A N/A N/A Short-term 15,000January 4, 2023 4.31%Fixed N/A N/A N/ATotal FHLB short-term advances 185,700   4.26%       Total FHLB advances$385,700   3.67%       Short-Term Borrowings               Repurchase agreementsRevolving$1,084 N/A 7.21%Variable N/A N/A N/ATotal short-term borrowings 1,084   7.21%       Total borrowings$386,784   3.68%        The short-term repurchase agreement represents the outstanding portion of a total $30.0 million commitment with one unrelated bank.  The short-termrepurchase agreement is utilized by Waterstone Mortgage Corporation to finance loans originated for sale. This agreement is secured by the underlying loansbeing financed.  Related interest rates are based upon the note rate associated with the loans being financed. The short-term repurchase agreement hada $2.1 million balance at December 31, 2023 and a $1.1 million balance at December 31, 2022. The Company enters into agreements under which it sells securities subject to an obligation to repurchase the same or similar securities. In addition, theCompany enters into agreements under which it sells loans held for sale subject to an obligation to repurchase the same loans. Under these arrangements, theCompany may transfer legal control over the assets but still retain effective control through an agreement that both entitles and obligates the Company torepurchase the assets. As a result, these repurchase agreements are accounted for as collateralized financing arrangements (i.e., secured borrowings) and notas a sale and subsequent repurchase of assets. The obligation to repurchase the assets is reflected as a liability in the Company's consolidated statements offinancial condition, while the securities and loans held for sale underlying the repurchase agreements remain in the respective investment securities and loansheld for sale asset accounts. In other words, there is no offsetting or netting of the investment securities or loans held for sale assets with the repurchaseagreement liabilities. The Company's repurchase agreement is subject to master netting agreements, which sets forth the rights and obligations for repurchaseand offset. Under the master netting agreement, the Company is entitled to set off the collateral placed with a single counterparty against obligations owed tothat counterparty.  - 88 -  The Federal Reserve Bank ("FRB") created a new borrowing facility called the Bank Term Funding Program in 2023. This program allows a bank to borrowagainst its investment portfolio, at par value, with no reduction for unrealized losses. The term is for one year and the interest rate is fixed at the time theadvance is taken. There is no prepayment penalty. Allowable investments for pledge are those the FRB can own. This would include all of the Company'sinvestment securities except municipal securities, private label bonds, and corporate bonds. At December 31, 2023, the Company had fully utilized its borrowingcapacity under this program. The program expires on March 11, 2024. The Company selects loans that meet underwriting criteria established by the Federal Home Loan Bank Chicago (FHLBC) as collateral for outstandingadvances. The Company’s borrowings at the FHLBC are limited to 80% of the carrying value of unencumbered one- to four-family mortgage loans, 64% of thecarrying value of home equity loans and 75% of the carrying value of over four-family loans. In addition, these advances are collateralized by FHLBC stock of$20.9 million at December 31, 2023 and $17.4 million at December 31, 2022. In the event of prepayment, the Company is obligated to pay all remaining contractualinterest on the advance.  8)Regulatory Capital The Company and the Bank are subject to various regulatory capital requirements administered by the federal banking agencies. Failure to meet minimumcapital requirements, or overall financial performance deemed by the regulators to be inadequate, can initiate certain mandatory and possibly additionaldiscretionary actions by regulators that, if undertaken, could have a direct material effect on the Company’s financial condition and results of operations. Undercapital adequacy guidelines and the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action, the Bank must meet specific capital guidelines that involve quantitativemeasures of the Company's and Bank’s assets, liabilities, and certain off-balance-sheet items, as calculated under regulatory accounting practices. TheCompany's and Bank’s capital amounts and classification are also subject to qualitative judgments by the regulators about components, risk weightings, andother factors. As required by applicable legislation, the federal banking agencies were required to develop a “Community Bank Leverage Ratio” (the ratio of a bank’s tangibleequity capital to average total consolidated assets) for financial institutions with assets of less than $10 billion.  A “qualifying community bank” that exceedsthis ratio will be deemed to be in compliance with all other capital and leverage requirements, including the capital requirements to be considered “wellcapitalized” under Prompt Corrective Action statutes.  The federal banking agencies may consider a financial institution’s risk profile when evaluating whetherit qualifies as a community bank for purposes of the capital ratio requirement. The federal banking agencies must set the minimum capital for the new Community Bank Leverage Ratio at not less than 8% and not more than 10%. TheCommunity Bank Leverage Ratio is currently 9%.  A financial institution can elect to be subject to this new definition, and opt-out of this new definition, at anytime. As a qualified community bank, we elected to opt-out of this definition during the second quarter of 2020. Prompt corrective action regulations provide five classifications: well-capitalized, adequately capitalized, undercapitalized, significantly undercapitalized, andcritically undercapitalized, although these terms are not used to represent overall financial condition. If only adequately capitalized, regulatory approval isrequired to accept brokered deposits. If undercapitalized, capital distributions are limited, as is asset growth and expansion, and capital restoration plans arerequired. The minimum capital ratios set forth in the Regulatory Capital Plans will be increased and other minimum capital requirements will be established if and asnecessary. In accordance with the Regulatory Capital Plans, the Bank will not pursue any acquisition or growth opportunity, declare any dividend or conductany stock repurchase that would cause the Bank's total risk-based capital ratio and/or its Tier 1 leverage ratio to fall below the established minimum capitallevels or the capital levels required for capital adequacy plus the capital conservation buffer. The minimum capital conservation buffer is 2.5%. As of December 31, 2023, the Bank was well-capitalized, with all capital ratios exceeding the well-capitalized requirement. There are no conditions or events thatmanagement believes have changed the Bank’s prompt corrective action capitalization category. The Bank is subject to regulatory restrictions on the amount of dividends it may declare and pay to the Company without prior regulatory approval, and toregulatory notification requirements for dividends that do not require prior regulatory approval. - 89 -  The actual and required capital amounts and ratios as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 are presented in the table below:   December 31, 2023                   Minimum Capital  To Be Well-Capitalized           For Capital  Adequacy with  Under Prompt Corrective   Actual  Adequacy Purposes  Capital Buffer  Action Provisions   Amount  Ratio  Amount  Ratio  Amount  Ratio  Amount  Ratio   (Dollars In Thousands)                                  Total Capital (to risk-weightedassets)                                Consolidated WaterstoneFinancial, Inc.  380,351   21.50%  141,538   8.00%  185,769   10.50%  N/A   N/A Waterstone Bank  355,476   20.10%  141,515   8.00%  185,738   10.50%  176,893   10.00%Tier I Capital (to risk-weightedassets)                                Consolidated WaterstoneFinancial, Inc.  360,734   20.39%  106,154   6.00%  150,385   8.50%  N/A   N/A Waterstone Bank  335,859   18.99%  106,117   6.00%  150,332   8.50%  141,489   8.00%Common Equity Tier 1 Capital (torisk-weighted assets)                                Consolidated WaterstoneFinancial, Inc.  360,734   20.39%  79,615   4.50%  123,846   7.00%  N/A   N/A Waterstone Bank  335,859   18.99%  79,587   4.50%  123,803   7.00%  114,960   6.50%Tier I Capital (to average assets)                                Consolidated WaterstoneFinancial, Inc.  360,734   16.77%  86,043   4.00%  N/A   N/A   N/A   N/A Waterstone Bank  335,859   15.62%  86,007   4.00%  N/A   N/A   107,509   5.00%State of Wisconsin (to total assets)                                Waterstone Bank  335,859   15.20%  132,576   6.00%  N/A   N/A   N/A   N/A    December 31, 2022   (Dollars In Thousands)                                  Total Capital (to risk-weightedassets)                                Consolidated WaterstoneFinancial, Inc.  407,099   24.36%  133,709   8.00%  175,493   10.50%  N/A   N/A Waterstone Bank  359,623   21.52%  133,690   8.00%  175,468   10.50%  167,112   10.00%Tier I Capital (to risk-weightedassets)                                Consolidated WaterstoneFinancial, Inc.  389,342   23.29%  100,281   6.00%  142,065   8.50%  N/A   N/A Waterstone Bank  341,866   20.46%  100,267   6.00%  142,045   8.50%  133,690   8.00%Common Equity Tier 1 Capital (torisk-weighted assets)                                Consolidated WaterstoneFinancial, Inc.  389,342   23.29%  75,211   4.50%  116,995   7.00%  N/A   N/A Waterstone Bank  341,866   20.46%  75,200   4.50%  116,978   7.00%  108,623   6.50%Tier I Capital (to average assets)                                Consolidated WaterstoneFinancial, Inc.  389,342   19.45%  80,080   4.00%  N/A   N/A   N/A   N/A Waterstone Bank  341,866   17.08%  80,080   4.00%  N/A   N/A   100,100   5.00%State of Wisconsin (to total assets)                                Waterstone Bank  341,866   16.87%  121,624   6.00%  N/A   N/A   N/A   N/A  - 90 -   9)Stock Based Compensation Stock-Based Compensation Plan In 2020, the 2020 Omnibus Incentive Plan was approved.  All stock awards granted under this plan are required to be settled in shares of the Company’scommon stock.  The exercise price for all stock options granted was equal to the quoted NASDAQ market closing price on the date that the awards weregranted and the stock options expire ten years after the grant date, if not exercised.  All restricted stock grants are issued from previously unissued shares. A total of 750,000 stock options and 500,000 restricted shares were approved for award.  A total of 645,000 stock options and 431,631 restricted stock wereavailable to be issued as of December 31, 2023. Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation Plan The fair value of stock options granted is estimated on the grant date using a Black-Scholes pricing model.   The fair value of restricted shares is equal to thequoted NASDAQ market closing price on the date of grant.  The fair value of stock grants is recognized as compensation expense on a straight-line basis overthe vesting period of the grants.  Compensation expense is included in compensation, payroll taxes and other employee benefits in the consolidated statementsof income. Assumptions are used in estimating the fair value of stock options granted. The weighted average expected life of the stock options represents the period oftime that the options are expected to be outstanding and is based on the historical results from the previous awards. The risk-free interest rate is based on theU.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant. The expected volatility is based on the actual volatility of Waterstone Financial, Inc. stock for theweighted average life time period prior to issuance date. The following assumptions were used in estimating the fair value of options granted in the years endedDecember 31, 2023 and 2022.   2023  2022   Minimum  Maximum  Minimum  Maximum Dividend Yield  4.22%  6.27%  4.07%  4.82%Risk-free interest rate  3.52%  4.62%  1.80%  3.92%Expected volatility  23.81%  25.42%  23.14%  23.97%Weighted average expected life  5.1   5.7   5.5   5.6 Weighted average per share value of options  1.58   2.52   2.48   2.84  The Company's policy is to adjust compensation expense at the time of actual stock grant forfeiture.   A summary of the Company’s stock option activity for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 is presented below.           Weighted Average  Aggregate       Weighted Average  Years Remaining in  Intrinsic Value Stock Options Shares  Exercise Price  Contractual Term  (000's) Outstanding December 31, 2020  751,827  $13.57   4.82  $3,945 Options exercisable at December 31, 2020  433,827   13.31   4.45  $2,392                  Granted  45,000   20.44      $39 Exercised  (179,517)  12.85       1,496 Forfeited  (23,000)  16.50       108 Outstanding December 31, 2021  594,310   14.20   4.33  $4,158 Options exercisable at December 31, 2021  352,310   13.70   3.78  $2,636                  Granted  35,000   18.38      $2 Exercised  (44,690)  12.62       198 Forfeited  (29,001)  18.82       1 Outstanding December 31, 2022  555,619   14.35   3.41  $1,708 Options exercisable at December 31, 2022  409,119   13.76   2.59  $1,408                  Granted  40,000   14.20      $15 Exercised  (64,219)  12.75       93 Forfeited  (21,000)  19.24       - Outstanding December 31, 2023  510,400   14.34   3.17  $473 Options exercisable at December 31, 2023  425,400   13.92   2.08  $454  - 91 -  The following table summarizes information about the Company's stock options outstanding at December 31, 2023.   OptionsOutstanding  WeightedAverageExercise Price  Remaining Life(Years)  OptionsExercisable  WeightedAverageExercise Price  Remaining Life(Years) Range of Exercise Prices:                        $0.01 - $10.00  -  $-   -   -  $-   - $10.01 - $15.00  380,400   13.01   2.22   339,400   12.89   1.39 $15.01 - $20.00  115,000   17.80   5.72   80,000   17.74   4.58 Over $20.01  15,000   21.50   7.89   6,000   21.50   7.89 Total  510,400  $14.34   3.17   425,400  $13.92   2.08  The following table summarizes information about the Company’s nonvested stock option activity for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022:       Weighted Average Stock Options Shares  Grant Date FairValue          Nonvested at December 31, 2021  242,000  $3.06 Granted  35,000   2.63 Vested  (113,500)  2.66 Forfeited  (17,000)  2.52 Nonvested at December 31, 2022  146,500   2.90          Nonvested at December 31, 2022  146,500   2.90 Granted  40,000   1.82 Vested  (88,500)  3.16 Forfeited  (13,000)  2.55 Nonvested at December 31, 2023  85,000   2.17  The Company amortizes the expense related to stock options as compensation expense over the vesting period.  Expense for the stock options granted of$107,000, $342,000 and $329,000 was recognized during the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.  At December 31, 2023, the Companyhad $182,000 in estimated unrecognized compensation costs related to outstanding stock options that is expected to be recognized over a weighted averageperiod of 44 months. The following table summarizes information about the Company’s restricted stock shares activity for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022:       Weighted Average Restricted Stock Shares  Grant Date FairValue          Nonvested at December 31, 2021  51,722  $16.82 Granted  17,665   19.43 Vested  (24,288)  13.12 Forfeited  -   - Nonvested at December 31, 2022  45,099   19.84          Nonvested at December 31, 2022  45,099   19.84 Granted  21,982   16.02 Vested  (1,288)  19.80 Forfeited  -   - Nonvested at December 31, 2023  65,793   18.56  The Company amortizes the expense related to restricted stock awards as compensation expense over the vesting period.  Expense for the restricted stockawards of $170,000, $242,000 and $416,000 was recorded for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.  At December 31, 2023, theCompany had $96,000 of unrecognized compensation expense related to restricted stock shares that is expected to be recognized over a weighted averageperiod of 25 months. - 92 -   10)Employee Benefit Plans The Company has two 401(k) profit sharing plans and trusts covering substantially all employees.  WaterStone Bank employees over 18 years of age areimmediately eligible to participate in the Bank’s plan.  Waterstone Mortgage employees over 18 years of age are eligible to participate in its plan as of the first ofthe month following their date of employment.  Participating employees may annually contribute pretax compensation in accordance with IRS limits.  TheCompany made matching contributions of $1.0 million, $1.3 million and $1.6 million to the plans during the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021,respectively.  11)Employee Stock Ownership Plan All WaterStone Bank employees are eligible to participate in the WaterStone Bank Employee Stock Ownership Plan (the “Plan”) after they attain 21 years of ageand complete 12 consecutive months of service in which they work at least 1,000 hours of service.  The Plan debt is secured by shares of the Company.  TheCompany has committed to make annual contributions to the Plan necessary to repay the loan, including interest.   During the year ended December 31, 2005, the Plan borrowed $8.5 million from the Company and purchased 835,610 shares of common stock of the Company inthe open market. During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Plan borrowed an additional $23.8 million from the Company, refinanced the remaining 83,561shares (related to the 2005 Plan purchase), and purchased an additional 2,024,000 shares of common stock of the Company in the open market.  While theshares are not released and allocated to Plan participants until the loan payment is made, the shares are deemed to be earned and are therefore, committed to bereleased throughout the service period.  As such, one-twentieth of the total 2,107,561 shares are scheduled to be released annually as shares are earned over aperiod of 20 years, beginning with the period ended December 31, 2014.  As the debt is repaid, shares are released from collateral and allocated to activeparticipant accounts.  The shares pledged as collateral are reported as “Unearned ESOP shares” in the consolidated statement of financial condition.  As sharesare committed to be released from collateral, the Company reports compensation expense equal to the average fair market price of the shares, and the sharesbecome outstanding for earnings per share computations.  Compensation expense attributed to the ESOP was $1.5 million, $1.9 million and $2.3 million,respectively, for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021. The aggregate activity in the number of unearned ESOP shares, considering the allocation of those shares committed to be released as of December 31, 2023and 2022 is as follows:   2023  2022 Beginning ESOP shares  1,159,159   1,264,537 Shares committed to be released  (105,378)  (105,378)Unreleased shares  1,053,781   1,159,159 Fair value of unreleased shares (in millions) $15.0  $20.0   12)Income Taxes The provision for income taxes for the year ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 consists of the following:   Years ended December 31,   2023  2022  2021   (In Thousands) Current:            Federal $2,274  $4,731  $17,387 State  456   745   2,550    2,730   5,476   19,937 Deferred:            Federal  (523)  (460)  900 State  (550)  (24)  478    (1,073)  (484)  1,378 Total $1,657  $4,992  $21,315  - 93 -  The income tax provisions differ from that computed at the Federal statutory corporate tax rate for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 as follows:   Years ended December 31,   2023  2022  2021   (Dollars in Thousands) Income before income taxes $11,032  $24,479  $92,106 Tax at Federal statutory rate (21%)  2,317   5,141   19,342 Add (deduct) effect of:            State income taxes net of Federal income tax (benefit) expense  (74)  570   2,392 Cash surrender value of life insurance  (359)  (365)  (339)Non-deductible ESOP and stock option expense  73   167   216 Tax-exempt interest income  (205)  (159)  (208)Non-deductible compensation  87   37   103 Death benefit on bank owned life insurance  (8)  (71)  - Stock compensation  -   (69)  (251)ESOP dividends  (168)  (273)  (245)Other  (6)  14   305 Income tax provision $1,657  $4,992  $21,315 Effective tax rate  15.0%  20.4%  23.1% The significant components of the Company’s net deferred tax assets (liabilities) included in prepaid expenses and other assets are as follows at December 31,2023 and 2022:   December 31,   2023  2022   (In Thousands) Gross deferred tax assets:        Depreciation $1,054  $959 Restricted stock and stock options  324   326 Allowance for credit losses  4,530   4,263 Allowance for unfunded commitments  261   321 Repurchase reserve for loans sold  446   512 Interest recognized for tax but not books  217   209 State net operating loss  280   - Real estate owned  9   9 Lease liability  802   1,148 Unrealized loss on securities available for sale, net  5,520   7,104 Other  374   186 Total gross deferred tax assets  13,817   15,037 Gross deferred tax liabilities:        Mortgage servicing rights  (467)  (870)FHLB stock dividends  (17)  (24)Lease Asset  (815)  (1,138)Deferred loan fees  (357)  (333)Deferred liabilities  (1,656)  (2,365)Net deferred tax assets $12,161  $12,672  The Company had a Wisconsin net operating loss carry forward of $15,000 at December 31, 2023 which will begin to expire in 2028. The Company has no capitalloss carryforwards as of December 31, 2023. Under the Internal Revenue Code and Wisconsin Statutes, the Company was permitted to deduct, for tax years beginning before 1988, an annual addition to areserve for bad debts. This amount differs from the provision for loan losses recorded for financial accounting purposes. Under prior law, bad debt deductionsfor income tax purposes were included in taxable income of later years only if the bad debt reserves were used for purposes other than to absorb bad debtlosses. Because the Company did not intend to use the reserve for purposes other than to absorb losses, no deferred income taxes were provided. Retainedearnings at December 31, 2023 include approximately $16.7 million for which no deferred Federal or state income taxes were provided.  Deferred income taxeshave been provided on certain additions to the tax reserve for bad debts. The Company and its subsidiaries file consolidated federal and combined state tax returns. One subsidiary also files separate state income tax returns in certainstates.  The Company is no longer subject to federal tax examinations for the years before 2020. The years open to examination by state and local governmentauthorities varies by jurisdiction. - 94 -   13)Commitments, Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements, and Contingent Liabilities The Company is a party to financial instruments with off-balance-sheet risk in the normal course of business to meet the financing needs of its customers.These financial instruments include commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit. Those instruments involve, to varying degrees, elements ofcredit and interest rate risk in excess of the amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheets. The contract or notional amounts of those instrumentsreflect the extent of involvement the Company has in particular classes of financial instruments.   December 31,   2023  2022   (In Thousands) Financial instruments whose contract amounts represent potential credit risk:        Commitments to extend credit under first mortgage loans (1) $9,789   61,223 Commitments to extend credit under home equity lines of credit  11,722   9,550 Unused portion of construction loans  76,660   48,530 Unused portion of business lines of credit  15,378   17,356 Standby letters of credit  514   1,516  (1) Excludes commitments to originate loans held for sale, which are discussed in Footnote 14 - Derivative Financial Instruments. Commitments to extend credit are agreements to lend to a customer as long as there is no violation of any condition established in the contract. Commitmentsgenerally have fixed expiration dates or other termination clauses and may require payment of a fee. Since many of the commitments are expected to expirewithout being drawn upon, the total commitment amounts do not necessarily represent future cash requirements of the Company. The Company evaluates eachcustomer’s creditworthiness on a case-by-case basis. The amount of collateral obtained, if deemed necessary by the Company upon extension of credit, isbased on management’s credit evaluation of the counter-party. Collateral obtained generally consists of mortgages on the underlying real estate. Standby letters of credit are conditional commitments issued by the Company to guarantee the performance of a customer to a third party. The credit riskinvolved in issuing letters of credit is essentially the same as that involved in extending loan facilities to customers. The Company holds mortgages on theunderlying real estate as collateral supporting those commitments for which collateral is deemed necessary. The Company has determined that there are no probable losses related to commitments to extend credit or the standby letters of credit as of December 31, 2023and 2022. See Note 3 - Loans Receivable for discussion on the allowance for credit losses - unfunded commitments.   Residential mortgage loans sold to others are predominantly conventional residential first lien mortgages. The Company’s agreements to sell residentialmortgage loans in the normal course of business usually require certain representations and warranties on the underlying loans sold related to creditinformation, loan documentation and collateral, which if subsequently are untrue or breached, could require the Company to repurchase certain loans affected.The Company has only been required to make insignificant repurchases as a result of breaches of these representations and warranties. The Company’sagreements to sell residential mortgage loans also contain limited recourse provisions. The recourse provisions are limited in that the recourse provision endsafter certain payment criteria have been met. With respect to these loans, repurchase could be required if defined delinquency issues arose during the limitedrecourse period. Given that the underlying loans delivered to buyers are predominantly conventional first lien mortgages,  historical experience has resulted ininsignificant losses and repurchase activity. The Company's reserve for losses related to these recourse provisions that is reported as a component of otherliabilities on the Company's consolidated statement of financial condition totaled $1.7 million and $2.0 million as of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022,respectively. In the normal course of business, the Company, or its subsidiaries are involved in various legal proceedings.  In the opinion of management, any liabilityresulting from pending proceedings would not be expected to have a material adverse effect on the Company's consolidated financial statements. - 95 -   14)Derivative Financial Instruments Mortgage Banking Derivatives In connection with its mortgage banking activities, the Company enters into derivative financial instruments as part of its strategy to manage its exposure tochanges in interest rates.   Mortgage banking derivatives include interest rate lock commitments provided to customers to fund mortgage loans to be sold inthe secondary market and forward commitments for the future delivery of such loans.  It is the Company’s practice to enter into forward commitments for thefuture delivery of residential mortgage loans when interest rate lock commitments are entered into in order to economically hedge the effect of future changes ininterest rates on its commitments to fund the loans as well as on its portfolio of mortgage loans held-for-sale.  The Company’s mortgage banking derivativeshave not been designated as being a hedge relationship.  These instruments are used to manage the Company’s exposure to interest rate movements and otheridentified risks but do not meet the strict hedge accounting requirements of ASC 815.  Changes in the fair value of derivatives not designated in hedgingrelationships are recorded directly in earnings.  The Company does not use derivatives for speculative purposes. Derivative Loan Commitments Mortgage loan commitments qualify as derivative loan commitments if the loan that will result from exercise of the commitment will be held for sale uponfunding. The Company enters into commitments to fund residential mortgage loans at specified times in the future, with the intention that these loans willsubsequently be sold in the secondary market. A mortgage loan commitment binds the Company to lend funds to a potential borrower at a specified interestrate and within a specified period of time, generally up to 60 days after inception of the rate lock. Outstanding derivative loan commitments expose the Company to the risk that the price of the loans arising from exercise of the loan commitment might declinefrom inception of a rate lock to funding of the loan due to increases in mortgage interest rates. If interest rates increase, the value of these loan commitmentsdecreases. Conversely, if interest rates decrease, the value of these loan commitments increases. Forward Loan Sale Commitments The Company utilizes both “mandatory delivery” and “best efforts” forward loan sale commitments to mitigate the risk of potential decreases in the values ofloans that would result from the exercise of the derivative loan commitments. With a “mandatory delivery” contract, the Company commits to deliver a certain principal amount of mortgage loans to an investor at a specified price on orbefore a specified date. If the Company fails to deliver the number of mortgages necessary to fulfill the commitment by the specified date, it is obligated to paya “pair-off” fee, based on then-current market prices, to the investor to compensate the investor for the shortfall. With a “best efforts” contract, the Company commits to deliver an individual mortgage loan of a specified principal amount and quality to an investor if theloan to the underlying borrower closes. Generally, the price the investor will pay the seller for an individual loan is specified prior to the loan being funded (e.g.,on the same day the lender commits to lend funds to a potential borrower). The Company expects that these forward loan sale commitments will experience changes in fair value opposite to the change in fair value of derivative loancommitments. Interest Rate Swaps The Company may offer derivative contracts to its customers in connection with their risk management needs. The Company manages the risk associated withthese contracts by entering into an equal and offsetting derivative with a third-party dealer through back-to-back swaps. These derivatives generally worktogether as an economic interest rate hedge, but the Company does not designate them for hedge accounting treatment.  Consequently, changes in fair value ofthe corresponding derivative financial asset or liability are recorded as either a charge or credit to current earnings during the period in which the changesoccurred. The fair value of the swaps is recorded as both an asset and a liability, in other assets and other liabilities on the Company's consolidated statementof financial condition, respectively, in equal amounts for these transactions. The following tables presents the outstanding notional balances and fair values of outstanding derivative instruments: December 31, 2023    Assets Liabilities Derivatives not designated as HedgingInstruments Notional Amount Balance Sheet Location Fair Value Balance Sheet Location Fair Value   (Dollars in millions)           Forward commitments $268.8 Prepaid expenses andOther assets $- Other liabilities $0.4 Interest rate locks  170.9 Prepaid expenses andOther assets  0.3 Other liabilities  - Interest rate swaps  88.2 Prepaid expenses andOther assets  12.0 Other liabilities  12.0   December 31, 2022    Assets Liabilities Derivatives not designated as HedgingInstruments Notional Amount Balance Sheet Location Fair Value Balance Sheet Location Fair Value   (Dollars in millions)           Forward commitments $296.0 Prepaid expenses andOther assets $1.9 Other liabilities $3.6 Interest rate locks  203.1 Prepaid expenses andOther assets  0.7 Other liabilities  - Interest rate swaps  90.5 Prepaid expenses andOther assets  14.2 Other liabilities  14.2  - 96 -  In determining the fair value of its derivative loan commitments, the Company considers the value that would be generated when the loan arising from exerciseof the loan commitment is sold in the secondary mortgage market. That value includes the price that the loan is expected to be sold for in the secondarymortgage market.  The fair value of these commitments is recorded on the consolidated statements of financial condition with the changes in fair value recordedas a component of mortgage banking income. The significant unobservable input used in the fair value measurement of the Company's mortgage banking derivatives, including interest rate lockcommitments, is the loan pull through rate. This represents the percentage of loans currently in a lock position which the Company estimates will ultimatelyclose. Generally, the fair value of an interest rate lock commitment will be positively (negatively) impacted when the prevailing interest rate is lower (higher) thanthe interest rate lock commitment. Generally, an increase in the pull through rate will result in the fair value of the interest rate lock increasing when in a gainposition, or decreasing when in a loss position. The pull through rate is largely dependent on the loan processing stage that a loan is currently in and thechange in prevailing interest rates from the time of the rate lock. The pull through rate is computed using historical data and the ratio is periodically reviewed bythe Company. The back-to-back swaps mature in December 2029 to June 2037. Commercial borrower swaps are completed independently with each borrower and are notsubject to master netting arrangements. As of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, no back-to-back swaps were in default.  The Company pays fixedrates and receives floating rates based upon SOFR on the swaps with dealer counterparties. Dealer counterparty swaps are subject to master nettingagreements among the contracts within our Bank. No right of offset existed with dealer counterparty swaps as of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022.  Allchanges in the fair value of these instruments are recorded in other non-interest income. The Company pledged no collateral at December 31,2023 and December 31, 2022.  15)Fair Value Measurements ASC Topic 820, “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures” defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value, and expands disclosures aboutfair value measurements. This accounting standard applies to reported balances that are required or permitted to be measured at fair value under existingaccounting pronouncements. The standard also emphasizes that fair value (i.e., the price that would be received in an orderly transaction that is not a forcedliquidation or distressed sale at the measurement date), among other things, is based on exit price versus entry price, should include assumptions about risksuch as nonperformance risk in liability fair values, and is a market-based measurement, not an entity-specific measurement. When considering theassumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability, this accounting standard establishes a fair value hierarchy that distinguishesbetween market participant assumptions based on market data obtained from sources independent of the reporting entity (observable inputs that are classifiedwithin Levels 1 and 2 of the hierarchy) and the reporting entity’s own assumptions about market participant assumptions (unobservable inputs classified withinLevel 3 of the hierarchy). The fair value hierarchy prioritizes inputs used to measure fair value into three broad levels. Level 1 inputs - In general, fair values determined by Level 1 inputs use quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that we have the abilityto access. - 97 -  Level 2 inputs - Fair values determined by Level 2 inputs use inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1 inputs that are observable for the asset orliability, either directly or indirectly.  Level 2 inputs include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similarassets or liabilities in markets where there are few transactions and inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability, such as interestrates and yield curves that are observable at commonly quoted intervals. Level 3 inputs - Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs for the asset or liability and include situations where there is little, if any, market activity for the asset orliability. In instances where the determination of the fair value measurement is based on inputs from different levels of the fair value hierarchy, the level in the fair valuehierarchy within which the entire fair value measurement falls is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in itsentirety.  The Company’s assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment, and considersfactors specific to the asset or liability. The following table presents information about our assets and liabilities recorded in our consolidated statement of financial position at their fair value on arecurring basis as of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, and indicates the fair value hierarchy of the valuation techniques utilized to determine such fairvalue.       Fair Value Measurements Using   December 31,2023  Level 1  Level 2  Level 3   (In Thousands) Assets                Available for sale securities                Mortgage-backed securities $11,181  $-  $11,181  $- Collateralized mortgage obligations                Government sponsored enterprise issued  133,467   -   133,467   - Private-label issued  7,260   -   7,260   - Government sponsored enterprise bonds  2,348   -   2,348   - Municipal securities  39,488   -   39,488   - Other debt securities  11,163   -   11,163   - Loans held for sale  164,993   -   164,993   - Mortgage banking derivative assets  334   -   -   334 Interest rate swap assets  12,044   -   12,044   - Liabilities                Mortgage banking derivative liabilities  364   -   -   364 Interest rate swap liabilities  12,044   -   12,044   -        Fair Value Measurements Using   December 31,2022  Level 1  Level 2  Level 3   (In Thousands) Assets                Available for sale securities                Mortgage-backed securities $13,314  $-  $13,314  $- Collateralized mortgage obligations                Government sponsored enterprise issued  124,765   -   124,765   - Private-label issued  8,106   -   8,106   - Government sponsored enterprise bonds  2,256   -   2,256   - Municipal securities  36,934   -   36,934   - Other debt securities  11,162   -   11,162   - Other Securities  51   -   51   - Loans held for sale  131,188   -   131,188   - Mortgage banking derivative assets  2,619   -   -   2,619 Interest rate swap assets  14,226   -   14,226   - Liabilities                Mortgage banking derivative liabilities  3,613   -   -   3,613 Interest rate swap liabilities  14,226   -   14,226   -  - 98 -  The following summarizes the valuation techniques for assets and liabilities recorded in our consolidated statements of financial condition at their fair value ona recurring basis: Available for sale securities – The Company's investment securities classified as available for sale include: mortgage-backed securities, collateralized mortgageobligations, government sponsored enterprise bonds, municipal securities and other debt securities. The fair values of mortgage-backed securities,collateralized mortgage obligations and government sponsored enterprise bonds are determined by a third party valuation source using observable market datautilizing a matrix or multi-dimensional relational pricing model. Standard inputs to these models include observable market data such as benchmark yields,reported trades, broker quotes, issuer spreads, benchmark securities, prepayment models and bid/offer market data. For securities with an early redemptionfeature, an option adjusted spread model is utilized to adjust the issuer spread. These model and matrix measurements are classified as Level 2 in the fair valuehierarchy. The fair values of municipal and other debt securities are determined by a third party valuation source using observable market data utilizing a multi-dimensional relational pricing model. Standard inputs to this model include observable market data such as benchmark yields, reported trades, broker quotes,rating updates and issuer spreads. These model measurements are classified as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy. The change in fair value is recorded throughan adjustment to the statement of comprehensive income. Loans held for sale – The Company carries loans held for sale at fair value under the fair value option model. Fair value is generally determined by estimating agross premium or discount, which is derived from pricing currently observable in the secondary market, principally from observable prices for forward salecommitments. Loans held-for-sale are considered to be Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy of valuation techniques. The change in fair value is recorded throughan adjustment to the statement of income. Mortgage banking derivatives - Mortgage banking derivatives include interest rate lock commitments to originate residential loans held for sale to individualcustomers and forward commitments to sell residential mortgage loans to various investors. The Company utilizes a valuation model to estimate the fair valueof its interest rate lock commitments to originate residential mortgage loans held for sale, which includes applying a pull through rate based upon historicalexperience and the current interest rate environment and then multiplying by quoted investor prices. The Company also utilizes a valuation model to estimatethe fair value of its forward commitments to sell residential loans, which includes matching specific terms and maturities of the forward commitments againstapplicable investor pricing available. While there are Level 2 and 3 inputs used in the valuation models, the Company has determined that one or more of theinputs significant in the valuation of both of the mortgage banking derivatives fall within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The change in fair value is recordedthrough an adjustment to the statement of operations, within mortgage banking income. Interest rate swap assets/liabilities - The Company offers loan level swaps to its customers and offsets its exposure from such contracts by entering into mirrorimage swaps with a financial institution / swap counterparty. The fair values of derivatives are based on valuation models using observable market data as ofthe measurement date.  Our derivatives are traded in an over-the-counter market where quoted market prices are not always available.  Therefore, the fair valuesof derivatives are determined using quantitative models that utilize multiple market inputs.  The inputs will vary based on the type of derivative, but couldinclude interest rates, prices and indices to generate continuous yield or pricing curves, prepayment rates, and volatility factors to value the position.  Themajority of market inputs are actively quoted and can be validated through external sources, including brokers, market transactions and third-party pricingservices. Interest rate swap assets and liabilities are considered to be Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy of valuation techniques. The change in fair value isrecorded through an adjustment to the statement of operations, within other income and other expense. The table below presents reconciliation for all assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) during 2023and 2022.   Mortgage bankingderivatives, net   (In Thousands) Balance at December 31, 2021 $4,369      Mortgage derivative loss, net  (5,363)Balance at December 31, 2022  (994)     Mortgage derivative gain, net  964 Balance at December 31, 2023 $(30) There were no transfers in or out of Level 1, 2 or 3 measurements during the periods. - 99 -  Assets Recorded at Fair Value on a Non-recurring Basis The following table presents information about the Company's assets recorded in the consolidated statement of financial position at their fair value on a non-recurring basis as of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, and indicates the fair value hierarchy of the valuation techniques utilized to determine such fairvalue.       Fair Value Measurements Using   December 31,2023  Level 1  Level 2  Level 3   (In Thousands) Real estate owned $254  $-  $-  $254 Impaired mortgage servicing rights  1,063   -   -   1,063        Fair Value Measurements Using   December 31,2022  Level 1  Level 2  Level 3   (In Thousands) Real estate owned $145  $-  $-  $145 Impaired mortgage servicing rights  -   -   -   -  (1) Represents collateral-dependent impaired loans, net, which are included in loans. Real estate owned – On a non-recurring basis, real estate owned is recorded in the consolidated statements of financial condition at the lower of cost or fairvalue. Fair value is determined based on third party appraisals and, if less than the carrying value of the foreclosed loan, the carrying value of the real estateowned is adjusted to the fair value. Appraised values are adjusted to consider disposition costs and also to take into consideration the age of the most recentappraisal. Given the significance of the adjustments made to appraised values necessary to estimate the fair value of the properties, real estate owned isconsidered to be Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy of valuation techniques. Mortgage servicing rights -  The Company utilizes an independent valuation from a third party which uses a discounted cash flow model to estimate the fairvalue of mortgage servicing rights.  The model utilizes prepayment assumptions to project cash flows related to the mortgage servicing rights based upon thecurrent interest rate environment, which is then discounted to estimate an expected fair value of the mortgage servicing rights. The model considerscharacteristics specific to the underlying mortgage portfolio, such as: contractually specified servicing fees, prepayment assumptions, delinquency rates, latecharges and costs to service.  Given the significance of the unobservable inputs utilized in the estimation process, mortgage servicing rights are classified asLevel 3 within the fair value hierarchy.  The Company records the mortgage servicing rights at the lower of amortized cost or fair value.  - 100 -  For Level 3 assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring and non-recurring basis, the significant unobservable inputs used in the fair valuemeasurements were as follows:   Fair Value at  Significant Significant Unobservable Input Value   December 31, ValuationUnobservable Minimum  Maximum  Weighted   2023 TechniqueInputs Value  Value  Average   (Dollars in Thousands) Mortgage banking derivatives $(30)Pricing modelsPull through rate  20.5%  99.9%  69.8%Real estate owned  254 Market approachDiscount rates applied to appraisals  23.3%  73.1%  39.3%Mortgage servicing rights  1,063 Pricing modelsPrepayment rate  6.7%  23.9%  14.6%      Discount rate  10.0%  15.5%  11.2%      Cost to service $77  $471  $107                                         December 31,2022               Mortgage banking derivatives  (994)Pricing modelsPull through rate  20.6%  100.0%  89.2%Real estate owned  145 Market approachDiscount rates applied to appraisals  34.8%  34.8%  34.8%                                       A description of the valuation methodologies used for instruments measured at fair value, as well as the general classification of such instruments pursuant tothe valuation hierarchy, is set forth below. Fair value information about financial instruments follows, whether or not recognized in the consolidated statements of financial condition, for which it ispracticable to estimate that value. In cases where quoted market prices are not available, fair values are based on estimates using present value or othervaluation techniques. Those techniques are significantly affected by the assumptions used, including the discount rate and estimates of future cash flows. Inthat regard, the derived fair value estimates cannot be substantiated by comparison to independent markets and, in many cases, could not be realized inimmediate settlement of the instrument. Certain financial instruments and all nonfinancial instruments are excluded from its disclosure requirements.Accordingly, the aggregate fair value amounts presented do not represent the underlying value of the Company. The carrying amounts and fair values of the Company’s financial instruments consist of the following at December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022:   December 31, 2023  December 31, 2022   Carrying                  Carrying                   amount  Fair Value  amount  Fair Value       Total  Level 1  Level 2  Level 3      Total  Level 1  Level 2  Level 3   (In Thousands) Financial Assets                                        Cash and cash equivalents $36,421  $36,421  $36,421  $-  $-  $46,642  $46,642  $46,642  $-  $- Loans receivable  1,664,215   1,558,472   -   -   1,558,472   1,510,178   1,403,429   -   -   1,403,429 FHLB stock  20,880   20,880   20,880   -   -   17,357   17,357   17,357   -   - Accrued interest receivable  7,421   7,421   7,421   -   -   5,725   5,725   5,725   -   - Mortgage servicing rights  1,811   2,207   -   -   2,207   3,444   5,001   -   -   5,001        -                   -             Financial Liabilities                                        Deposits  1,190,624   1,189,274   460,340   728,934   -   1,199,012   1,194,559   556,741   637,818   - Advance payments by borrowersfor taxes  6,607   6,607   6,607   -   -   5,334   5,334   5,334   -   - Borrowings  611,054   602,948   -   602,948   -   386,784   377,275   -   377,275   - Accrued interest payable  2,613   2,613   2,613   -   -   1,358   1,358   1,358   -   -  - 101 -  The following methods and assumptions were used by the Company in determining its fair value disclosures for financial instruments. Cash and Cash Equivalents The carrying amount reported in the consolidated statements of financial condition for cash and cash equivalents is a reasonable estimate of fair value. Thecommercial paper instruments with a maturity of less than 90 days also approximates its fair value with its carrying value. Securities The fair value of securities is determined by a third party valuation source using observable market data utilizing a matrix or multi-dimensional relational pricingmodel.  Standard inputs to these models include observable market data such as benchmark yields, reported trades, broker quotes, issuer spreads, benchmarksecurities and bid/offer market data.  For securities with an early redemption feature, an option adjusted spread model is utilized to adjust the issuerspread.  Prepayment models are used for mortgage related securities with prepayment features. Loans Held for Sale Fair value is estimated using the prices of the Company’s existing commitments to sell such loans and/or the quoted market price for commitments to sell similarloans. Loans Receivable The fair value estimation process for the loan portfolio uses an exit price concept and reflects discounts the Company believes are consistent with discounts inthe market place. Fair values are estimated for portfolios of loans with similar characteristics. Loans are segregated by type such as one- to four-family, multi-family, home equity, construction and land, commercial real estate, commercial, and other consumer. The fair value of loans is estimated by discounting thefuture cash flows using the current rates at which similar loans would be made to borrowers with similar credit ratings and for similar maturities. The fair valueanalysis also includes other assumptions to estimate fair value, intended to approximate those a market participant would use in an orderly transaction, withadjustments for discount rates, interest rates, liquidity, and credit spreads, as appropriate. FHLB Stock For FHLB stock, the carrying amount is the amount at which shares can be redeemed with the FHLB and is a reasonable estimate of fair value. Deposits and Advance Payments by Borrowers for Taxes The fair values for interest-bearing and noninterest-bearing negotiable order of withdrawal accounts, savings accounts, and money market accounts are, bydefinition, equal to the amount payable on demand at the reporting date (i.e., their carrying amounts). The fair values for fixed-rate certificates of deposit areestimated using a discounted cash flow calculation that applies interest rates currently being offered on certificates of similar remaining maturities to a scheduleof aggregated expected monthly maturities of the outstanding certificates of deposit. The advance payments by borrowers for taxes are equal to their carryingamounts at the reporting date. Borrowings Fair values for borrowings are estimated using a discounted cash flow calculation that applies current interest rates to estimated future cash flows of theborrowings. Accrued Interest Payable and Accrued Interest Receivable For accrued interest payable and accrued interest receivable, the carrying amount is a reasonable estimate of fair value. Commitments to Extend Credit and Standby Letters of Credit Commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit are generally not marketable. Furthermore, interest rates on any amounts drawn under suchcommitments would be generally established at market rates at the time of the draw. Fair values for the Company's commitments to extend credit and standbyletters of credit are based on fees currently charged to enter into similar agreements, taking into account the remaining terms of the agreements, thecounterparty's credit standing, and discounted cash flow analyses. The fair value of the Company's commitments to extend credit was not material at December31, 2023 and December 31, 2022.  - 102 -  Mortgage Banking Derivative Assets and Liabilities Mortgage banking derivatives include interest rate lock commitments to originate residential loans held for sale to individual customers and forwardcommitments to sell residential mortgage loans to various investors. The Company relies on a valuation model to estimate the fair value of its interest rate lockcommitments to originate residential mortgage loans held for sale, which includes applying a pull through rate based upon historical experience and the currentinterest rate environment, and then multiplying by quoted investor prices. The Company also relies on a valuation model to estimate the fair value of its forwardcommitments to sell residential loans, which includes matching specific terms and maturities of the forward commitments against applicable investor pricingavailable. On the Company's Consolidated Statements of Condition, instruments that have a positive fair value are included in prepaid expenses and otherassets, and those instruments that have a negative fair value are included in other liabilities.  Interest Rate Swap Assets and Liabilities The carrying value and fair value of existing derivative financial instruments are based upon independent valuation models, which use widely acceptedvaluation techniques, including discounted cash flow analysis on the expected cash flows of each derivative contract. This analysis reflects the contractualterms of the derivatives, including the period to maturity, and uses observable market-based inputs, including interest rate curves and implied volatilities.  16)Earnings Per Share Earnings per share are computed using the two-class method. Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing net income allocated to common shares by theweighted average number of common shares outstanding during the applicable period. Diluted earnings per share is computed by dividing net income by theweighted average number of common shares outstanding adjusted for the dilutive effect of all potential common shares. There were 197,000, 128,000, and 70,000 antidilutive shares of common stock (where the exercise price exceeds the average price of common stock for theperiod) for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021, respectively. Presented below are the calculations for basic and diluted earnings per share:   For the year ended December 31,   2023  2022  2021   (In Thousands, except for per share amounts) Net income $9,375  $19,487  $70,791              Weighted average shares outstanding  20,158   21,884   23,741 Effect of dilutive potential common shares  38   126   190 Diluted weighted average shares outstanding $20,196  $22,010  $23,931              Basic income per share $0.47  $0.89  $2.98 Diluted income per share $0.46  $0.89  $2.96  - 103 -   17)Condensed Parent Company Only Statements Statements of Financial Condition   December 31,   2023  2022   (In Thousands) Assets        Cash and cash equivalents $28,036  $51,767 Investment in subsidiaries  319,181   323,010 Other assets  301   238 Total Assets $347,518  $375,015          Liabilities and shareholders' equity        Liabilities:        Other liabilities  3,462   4,529 Shareholders' equity        Preferred Stock (par value $.01 per share), Authorized - 50,000,000 shares in 2023 and 2022, no shares issued  -   - Common stock (par value $.01 per share) Authorized - 100,000,000 shares at December 31, 2023 and at December 31,2022, Issued and Outstanding - 20,314,786 at December 31, 2023 and 22,174,225 at December 31, 2022  203   222 Additional paid-in-capital  103,908   128,550 Retained earnings  269,606   274,246 Unearned ESOP shares  (11,869)  (13,056)Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of taxes  (17,792)  (19,476)Total shareholders' equity  344,056   370,486 Total liabilities and shareholders' equity $347,518  $375,015  Statements of Operations   For the year ended December 31,   2023  2022  2021   (In Thousands)              Interest income $1,212  $607  $549 Equity in income of subsidiaries  8,964   19,507   70,862 Total income  10,176   20,114   71,411              Professional fees $38   30   38 Other expense  631   603   604 Total expense  669   633   642 Income before income tax expense  9,507   19,481   70,769 Income tax (benefit) expense  132   (6)  (22)Net income $9,375  $19,487  $70,791  - 104 -  Statements of Cash Flows   For the year ended December 31,   2023  2022  2021   (In Thousands) Cash flows from operating activities            Net income $9,375  $19,487  $70,791 Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash (used in) provided by operatingactivities:            Amortization of unearned ESOP  1,461   1,889   2,129 Stock based compensation  277   583   745 Deferred income taxes  -   -   1 Equity in loss of subsidiaries  (8,964)  (19,507)  (70,862)Change in other assets and liabilities  (59)  89   (1,339)Net cash provided by operating activities  2,090   2,541   1,465              Net cash used in investing activities  -   -   -              Dividends received from subsidiary  14,754   55,594   63,564 Cash Dividends on Common Stock  (15,363)  (30,260)  (30,388)Proceeds from stock option exercises  820   564   2,307 Purchase of common stock returned to authorized but unissued  (26,032)  (47,830)  (10,176)Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities  (25,821)  (21,932)  25,307 Net (decrease) increase in cash  (23,731)  (19,391)  26,772 Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year  51,767   71,158   44,386 Cash and cash equivalents at end of year $28,036  $51,767  $71,158   18)Segment Reporting Selected financial and descriptive information is required to be provided about reportable operating segments, considering a "management approach" conceptas the basis for identifying reportable segments. The management approach is based on the way that management organizes the segments within the enterprisefor making operating decisions, allocating resources, and assessing performance. Consequently, the segments are evident from the structure of the enterprise'sinternal organization, focusing on financial information that an enterprise's chief operating decision-makers use to make decisions about the enterprise'soperating matters. The Company has determined that it has two reportable segments: community banking and mortgage banking. The Company's operating segments arepresented based on its management structure and management accounting practices. The structure and practices are specific to the Company and therefore,the financial results of the Company's business segments are not necessarily comparable with similar information for other financial institutions. Community Banking The Community Banking segment provides consumer and business banking products and services to customers primarily within Southeastern Wisconsin. Within this segment, the following products and services are provided:  (1) lending solutions such as residential mortgages, home equity loans and lines ofcredit, personal and installment loans, real estate financing, business loans, and business lines of credit; (2) deposit and transactional solutions such aschecking, credit, debit and pre-paid cards, online banking and bill pay, and money transfer services; (3) investable funds solutions such as savings, moneymarket deposit accounts, IRA accounts, certificates of deposit, and (4) fixed and variable annuities, insurance as well as trust and investment managementaccounts. Consumer products include loan and deposit products: mortgage, home equity loans and lines, personal term loans, demand deposit accounts, interest bearingtransaction accounts and time deposits. Consumer products also include personal investment services. Business banking products include secured andunsecured lines and term loans for working capital, inventory and general corporate use, commercial real estate construction loans, demand deposit accounts,interest bearing transaction accounts and time deposits. Mortgage Banking The Mortgage Banking segment provides residential mortgage loans for the primary purpose of sale in the secondary market. Mortgage banking products andservices are provided by offices in 26 states with the ability to lend in 48 states. - 105 -    As of or for the Year ended December 31, 2023   CommunityBanking  MortgageBanking  HoldingCompany andOther  Consolidated   (In Thousands)                  Net interest income $51,733  $(1,821) $303  $50,215 Provision for credit losses  441   215   -   656 Net interest income after provision for credit losses  51,292   (2,036)  303   49,559                  Noninterest income  4,387   78,472   (1,674)  81,185                  Noninterest expenses:                Compensation, payroll taxes, and other employee benefits  19,866   65,095   (865)  84,096 Occupancy, office furniture and equipment  3,672   4,651   -   8,323 Advertising  977   2,802   -   3,779 Data processing  2,501   2,130   22   4,653 Communications  295   693   -   988 Professional fees  726   1,922   38   2,686 Real estate owned  4   -   -   4 Loan processing expense  -   3,428   -   3,428 Other  3,868   8,953   (1,066)  11,755 Total noninterest expenses  31,909   89,674   (1,871)  119,712 Income (loss) before income taxes (benefit)  23,770   (13,238)  500   11,032 Income taxes (benefit)  5,137   (3,612)  132   1,657 Net income (loss) $18,633  $(9,626) $368  $9,375                  Total Assets $2,178,488  $206,452  $(171,551) $2,213,389    As of or for the Year ended December 31, 2022   CommunityBanking  MortgageBanking  HoldingCompany andOther  Consolidated   (In Thousands)                  Net interest income $56,606  $157  $191  $56,954 Provision for credit losses (1)  677   291   -   968 Net interest income after provision (credit) for loan losses  55,929   (134)  191   55,986                  Noninterest income  5,221   104,101   (3,767)  105,555                  Noninterest expenses:                Compensation, payroll taxes, and other employee benefits  19,013   81,010   (458)  99,565 Occupancy, office furniture and equipment  3,645   5,061   -   8,706 Advertising  887   3,089   -   3,976 Data processing  2,229   2,234   7   4,470 Communications  357   832   -   1,189 Professional fees  508   1,278   29   1,815 Real estate owned  19   -   -   19 Loan processing expense  -   4,744   -   4,744 Other  5,551   10,197   (3,170)  12,578 Total noninterest expenses  32,209   108,445   (3,592)  137,062 Income (loss) before income taxes (benefit)  28,941   (4,478)  16   24,479 Income taxes (benefit)  6,116   (1,117)  (7)  4,992 Net income (loss) $22,825  $(3,361) $23  $19,487                  Total Assets $2,009,727  $198,625  $(176,680) $2,031,672  (1) The Company adopted ASU 2016-13 as of January 1, 2022. The prior year amounts presented are calculated under the prior accounting standard. - 106 -    As of or for the Year ended December 31, 2021   CommunityBanking  MortgageBanking  HoldingCompany andOther  Consolidated   (In Thousands)                  Net interest income $56,051  $(652) $116  $55,515 Provision (credit) for loan losses  (4,100)  110   -   (3,990)Net interest income after provision for loan losses  60,151   (762)  116   59,505                  Noninterest income  6,058   197,573   (436)  203,195                  Noninterest expenses:                Compensation, payroll taxes, and other employee benefits  20,294   115,279   (458)  135,115 Occupancy, office furniture and equipment  3,781   5,831   -   9,612 Advertising  980   2,548   -   3,528 Data processing  2,039   1,889   22   3,950 Communications  427   882   -   1,309 Professional fees  673   564   38   1,275 Real estate owned  3   -   -   3 Loan processing expense  -   4,610   -   4,610 Other  1,974   9,074   144   11,192 Total noninterest expenses  30,171   140,677   (254)  170,594 Income before income taxes  36,038   56,134   (66)  92,106 Income taxes  7,696   13,641   (22)  21,315 Net income $28,342  $42,493  $(44) $70,791                  Total Assets $2,162,360  $365,590  $(312,092) $2,215,858  - 107 -   Item 9.           Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure None Item 9A.        Controls and Procedures Disclosure Controls and Procedures: The Company's management, with the participation of the Company's Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, hasevaluated the effectiveness of the Company's disclosure controls and procedures (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the SecuritiesExchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”)) as of the end of the period covered by this report.  Based on such evaluation, the Company's Chief ExecutiveOfficer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that, as of the end of such period, the Company's disclosure controls and procedures are effective in recording,processing, summarizing and reporting, on a timely basis, information required to be disclosed by the Company in the reports that it files or submits under the ExchangeAct. As of December 31, 2023, management assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on criteria for effective internalcontrol over financial reporting established in “Internal Control—Integrated Framework,” issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organization of the TreadwayCommission (COSO) in 2013. Based on this assessment, management has determined that the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31,2023 is effective.2023 is effective. FORVIS, LLP, the Company’s registered public accounting firm, has audited the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023.  The auditreport by FORVIS, LLP is located in Item 8 of this report. There were no changes in the Company’s internal controls over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a - 15(f) under the Exchange Act) that occurred during the yearended December 31, 2023, that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.  There havebeen no significant changes in the Company’s internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect internal controls subsequent to the date of theirevaluation or material weaknesses in such internal controls requiring corrective actions.  Item 9B.       Other Information None  Item 9C.       Disclosure Regarding Foreign Jurisdictions that Prevent Inspections None - 108 -   Part III Item 10.        Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance The information in the Company’s definitive Proxy Statement, prepared for the 2024 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, which contains information concerningdirectors of the Company under the caption “Proposal 1 - Election of Directors” and compliance with Section 16 reporting requirements under the caption “DelinquentSection 16(a) Reports” and information concerning corporate governance under the caption “Other Board and Corporate Governance Matters” and "Board Meetingsand Committees," is incorporated herein by reference. Executive Officers of the Registrant The table below sets forth certain information regarding the persons who have been determined, by our board of directors, to be executive officers of theCompany as of December 31, 2023. The executive officers of the Company are elected annually and hold office until their respective successors have been elected oruntil death, resignation, retirement or removal by the Board of directors. Name and Age Offices and Positions with Waterstone Financial and Subsidiaries* ExecutiveOfficerSinceDouglas S. Gordon, 66 (1) Chief Executive Officer of Waterstone Financial and of WaterStone Bank 2005William F. Bruss, 54 (1) General Counsel, President and Secretary of Waterstone Financial and of WaterStone Bank 2005Mark R. Gerke, 49 Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President of Waterstone Financial and of WaterStone Bank 2016Jeff McGuiness, 58 Chief Executive Officer and President of Waterstone Mortgage Corporation 2020Julie A. Glynn, 60 Senior Vice President and Director of Retail Banking of WaterStone Bank 2018 *Excluding directorships and excluding positions with Bank subsidiary that do not constitute a substantial part of the officers’ duties.(1)Douglas S. Gordon retired on January 5, 2024. William F. Bruss took over as Chief Executive Officer of Waterstone Financial and WaterStone Bank on January 5,2024.  Item 11.      Executive Compensation The information in the Company’s definitive Proxy Statement, prepared for the 2024 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, which contains information concerningthis item under the captions “Executive Compensation,” “Director Compensation,” “Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation,” “CompensationDiscussion and Analysis,” and “Compensation Committee Report,” is incorporated herein by reference. Item 12.       Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters The information in the Company’s definitive Proxy Statement, prepared for the 2024 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, which contains information concerningthis item under the caption “Beneficial Ownership of Common Stock,” is incorporated herein by reference. Compensation Plans Set forth below is information as of December 31, 2023 regarding equity compensation plans that have been approved by shareholders.  The Company has noequity based benefit plans, other than its employee stock ownership plan, that were not approved by shareholders. Plan Number of shares to beissued upon exercise ofoutstanding options andrights  Weighted average optionexercise price  Number of securitiesremaining available forissuance under plan 2020 Omnibus Incentive Plan  170,793(1) $10.36   1,076,631  (1)Consists of 105,000 shares reserved for grants of stock options and 65,793 shares reserved for grants of restricted stock.  On December 31, 2023, 105,000 optionswere outstanding with a weighted average exercise price of $16.85 of which 23,000 were exercisable as of that date. - 109 -  Item 13.    Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence The information in the Company’s definitive Proxy Statement, prepared for the 2024 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, which contains information concerningthis item under the captions “Transactions with Certain Related Parties,” and “Board Meetings and Committees,” is incorporated herein by reference. Item 14.    Principal Accountant Fees and Services The information in the Company’s definitive Proxy Statement, prepared for the 2024 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, which contains information concerningthis item under the caption “Ratification of the Appointment of Our Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm,” is incorporated herein by reference.  Part IV  Item 15.    Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules  (a)Documents filed as part of the Report:1. and 2. Financial Statements and Financial Statement Schedules. The following consolidated financial statements of Waterstone Financial, Inc. and subsidiaries are filed as part of this report under Item 8, “FinancialStatements and Supplementary Data”: Report of FORVIS LLP, Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm, on consolidated financial statements. (PCAOB ID 686) Report of CliftonLarsonAllen LLP, Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm, on consolidated financial statements. (PCAOB ID 655) Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition – December 31, 2023 and 2022. Consolidated Statements of Operations – Years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021. Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income  – Years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021. Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity – Years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021. Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows – Years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021. Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. All schedules for which provision is made in the applicable accounting regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission are not required under therelated instructions or are inapplicable, and therefore have been omitted. (b). Exhibits.  See Exhibit Index following the signature page of this report, which is incorporated herein by reference.  Each management contract orcompensatory plan or arrangement required to be filed as an exhibit to this report is identified in the Exhibit Index by an asterisk following its exhibit number.  Item 16.    Form 10-K Summary Not applicable. - 110 -  WATERSTONE FINANCIAL, INC(“Waterstone Financial” or the “Company”)Commission File No. 000-51507 EXHIBIT INDEXTO2023 REPORT ON FORM 10-K The following exhibits are filed with, or incorporated by reference in, this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023: ExhibitDescriptionFiled Herewith   3.1Articles of Incorporation of the Company (2)    3.2Bylaws of the Company (2)    4.1Common Stock Certificate (1)    4.2Description of Registrant Securities (4)    10.1Waterstone Financial, Inc. 2020 Omnibus Incentive Plan †(6)    10.2Waterstone Financial, Inc. Incentive Plan †(3)    10.3Employment Agreement By and Between Waterstone Mortgage Corporation and Jeff McGuiness †(7)    21.1List of Subsidiaries (5)X   23.1Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting FirmX   23.2Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting FirmX   24.1Powers of Attorney    31.1Sarbanes-Oxley Act Section 302 Certification signed by the Chief Executive Officer of Waterstone FinancialX   31.2Sarbanes-Oxley Act Section 302 Certification signed by the Chief Financial Officer of Waterstone FinancialX   32.1Certification pursuant to 18 U.S. C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 signedby the Chief Executive Officer of Waterstone FinancialX   32.2Certification pursuant to 18 U.S. C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 signedby the Chief Financial Officer of Waterstone FinancialX   97Clawback Policy, Effective December 1, 2023X   XMLXBRL Instance Document - the instance document does not appear in the Interactive Data File because its XBRL tags areembedded within the Inline XBRL documentX   EX-101.SCHInline XBRL Taxonomy Extension SchemaX   EX-101.CALInline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation LinkbaseX   EX-101.DEFInline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition LinkbaseX   EX-101.LABInline XBRL Taxonomy Label LinkbaseX   EX-101.PREInline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation LinkbaseX   EX-104Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted as Inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101)X † Management compensation contract or agreement - 111 -  (1) Incorporated by reference to the registration Statement on Form S-1 filed by Wauwatosa Holdings, Inc. (the predecessor corporation to Waterstone Financial, Inc., afederal corporation) (Commission file no. 333-125715), filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on June 10, 2005.(2) Incorporated by reference to the registration Statement on Form S-1 (Registration No. 333-189160), initially filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission onJune 7, 2013.(3) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Report on Form 8-K filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on March 25, 2019 (File No. 001-36271).(4) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to Report on Form 10-K filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on March 13, 2020 (File No. 001-36271).(5) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 21.1 to Report on Form 10-K filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on March 13, 2020 (File No. 001-36271).(6) Incorporated by reference to Appendix A to the Definitive Proxy Statement for the 2020 Annual Meeting of Shareholders filed by Waterstone Financial, Inc. (Commission file no. 001-36271), filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on April 9, 2020.(7) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Report on Form 8-K filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on November 3, 2020 (File No. 001-36271).  SIGNATURES Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf bythe undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.   WATERSTONE FINANCIAL, INC.March 6, 2024      By:/s/ William F. Bruss  William F. Bruss  Chief Executive Officer - 112 -POWER OF ATTORNEYEach person whose signature appears below hereby authorizes William F. Bruss or Mark R. Gerke, or any of them, as attorneys-in-fact with full power ofsubstitution, to execute in the name and on behalf of such person, individually, and in each capacity stated below or otherwise, and to file, any and all amendments tothis report.Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and inthe capacities indicated.*Signature and Title/s/ William F. Bruss/s/ Patrick S. LawtonWilliam F. Bruss,Patrick S. Lawton, Chairman and DirectorChief Executive Officer and Director(Principal Executive Officer)/s/ Mark R. Gerke/s/ Ellen S. BartelMark R. GerkeEllen S. Bartel, DirectorChief Financial Officer(Principal Financial & Accounting Officer)/s/ Michael L. HansenMichael L. Hansen, Director/s/ Douglas S. GordonDouglas S. Gordon, Director/s/ Kristine A. RappéKristine A. Rappé, Director/s/ Stephen J. SchmidtStephen J. Schmidt, Director/s/ Derek L. TyusDerek L. Tyus, Director*Each of the above signatures is affixed as of March 6, 2024.- 113 -This 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Directors WaterStone Bank Off icers PATRICK LAWTON Chairman of the Board DOUGLAS GORDON ELLEN BARTEL MICHAEL HANSEN KRISTINE RAPPÉ STEPHEN SCHMIDT DEREK TYUS Waterstone Financial, Inc. Off icers WILLIAM BRUSS President & Chief Executive Off icer MARK GERKE Chief Financial Off icer & Executive Vice President Waterstone Mortgage Corporation Officers JEFF MCGUINESS Chief Executive Off icer & President KEVIN ALLEN Senior Vice President, Sales PAUL GARRIGUES Chief Financial Off icer RICH HARKWELL Senior Vice President, Chief Sales Off icer BOB SELINGO Senior Vice President, Secondary Marketing ELIZABETH SPRAGG Senior Vice President, Human Resources RICH TUCKER Chief Operating Off icer STEPHANIE ZIEBELL Senior Vice President, General Counsel As of March 2024 WILLIAM BRUSS President Chief Executive Off icer MARK GERKE Executive Vice President Chief Financial Off icer JULIE GLYNN Executive Vice President Chief Retail Off icer RYAN GORDON Executive Vice President Chief Credit Off icer DON BRAY Senior Vice President Chief Information Off icer MARLENE MOLTER Senior Vice President Director of Human Resources ANDREW BOARIO Vice President Director of Business Banking JAMES CROWLEY Vice President Business Banking MICHAEL DANIELSON Vice President Business Banking JEFF JARECKI Vice President Business Banking KEVIN STELZER Vice President Business Banking JOSEPH MUDLAFF Vice President Director of Commercial Real Estate SCOTT DEJONG Vice President Commercial Real Estate JULIE FAY-KRIVITZ Vice President Commercial Real Estate JACK KAHL Vice President Commercial Real Estate KENNETH SNYDER Vice President Commercial Real Estate NICOLE DEANGELIS Vice President Director of Loan Servicing MARGARET HAAGENSEN Vice President Mortgage Operations KYLE HAGER Vice President Compliance Off icer TARA LAGERMAN Vice President Director of Marketing SHAE MACLIN Vice President Director of Retail Banking KYLE MERTZ Vice President Controller THERESE PEKAR Vice President Customer Support Center WENDY RICE Vice President Retail Support KELLI GLATCZAK Assistant Vice President Deposit Servicing JOHN HEIMSOTH Assistant Vice President Internal Audit ERIN MCCARTHY Assistant Vice President Regional Manager MEGAN WEIGAND Assistant Vice President Regional Manager LAURA PINSON Assistant Vice President Loan Servicing JODI STEPHENS Assistant Vice President Employee Benef its MARY BRUEGGEMAN Treasury Off icer LYNDA GREEN Collections Off icer JENNIFER HELLENDRUNG Information Services Off icer BILL KOTNAROWSKI Credit Off icer JENNIFER LITKOWIEC Business Development Off icer DENISE MIHALJEVIC Legal Services Off icer CAROL PATRICK Assistant Compliance Off icer AL SCHEINPFLUG Facilities Off icer LINDA ULRICH Sr. Loan Underwriter Lead Off icer JOHN GEHLHAART Senior Wealth Advisor PETER LODDE Internal Audit Manager SHANDA CAVENEY Community President Oak Creek - Howell Ave LAURA CHRISTENSON Community President Pewaukee HEATHER FLETCHER Community President Oconomowoc AIMEE GOOD Community President Germantown BRYAN KRAJEWSKI Community President Milwaukee LYNN KUESTER Community President Fox Point REBECCA GUARDIOLA Community President Greenf ield LAURA MERCHLE Community President Waukesha JENNIFER PERIC Community President Franklin CALEB QUAKKELAAR Community President Brookf ield PAM ZORKO Community President West Allis - Greenf ield Ave Securities and advisory services are offered through LPL Financial (LPL), a registered investment advisor and broker/dealer (member FINRA/SIPC). Insurance products are offered through LPL or its licensed affiliates. WaterStone Bank and WaterStone Investment Services are not registered as a broker/dealer or investment advisor. Registered representatives of LPL offer products and services using WaterStone Investment Services, and may also be employees of WaterStone Bank. These products and services are being offered through LPL or its affiliates, which are separate entities from and not affiliates of WaterStone Bank or WaterStone Investment Services. Securities and insurance offered through LPL or its affiliates are: | Not Insured by FDIC or Any Other Government Agency | Not Bank Guaranteed | | Not Bank Deposits or Obligations | May Lose Value | WaterStone Bank Corporate Headquarters Phone (414) 761-1000 Website www.wsbonline.com 11200 West Plank Court Wauwatosa, WI, 53226 Toll Free (888) 686-7272 Email corporate@wsbonline.com 

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