Business Description

Forward-Looking Statements This Annual Report may contain certain “forward-looking statements,” which can be identified by the use of such words as “estimate,” “project,” “believe,” “intend,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “seek,” “expect,” “could,” “may,” “should,” “will,” and words of similar meaning. These forward-looking statements 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 portfolios; • statements about our performance, financial condition and liquidity; and • 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 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 to assumptions 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, internationally, nationally, or in our market areas, including inflationary pressures and/or recessionary conditions, employment prospects, supply chain issues, fluctuations in residential and commercial real estate values and market conditions, military conflict, geopolitical risks, and downgrades of the U.S. credit rating; •