UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C.  20549

FORM 10-K

(Mark One)
xANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT of 1934
 For the fiscal year ended December 31, 20152017
  
 or
  
oTRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 or 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 For the transition period from __________ to __________

Commission file number:  0-49677

WEST BANCORPORATION, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
 
IOWA42-1230603
(State of incorporation or organization)(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
  
1601 22nd STREET, WEST DES MOINES, IOWA
50266
(Address of principal executive offices)(Zip code)

Registrant'sRegistrant’s telephone number, including area code:  (515) 222-2300

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: 
Title of Class Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered
Common Stock, No Par Value The Nasdaq Global Select Market

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:  NONE

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.
Yes  o    No  x

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.
Yes  o    No  x

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 (or for 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  x No  o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Website, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes  x No  o

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant'sregistrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. o


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Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company or an emerging growth company. See definitionthe definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” and “smaller reporting company,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filero
Accelerated filerx
Non-accelerated filero(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
Smaller reporting companyo
Emerging growth companyo

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 accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). Yes  o No  x

The aggregate market value of the voting common stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant as of June 30, 2015,2017, was approximately $310,083,685.$372,424,686.

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the registrant'sregistrant’s classes of common stock as of the most recent practicable date, March 1, 2016.February 28, 2018.

16,070,77216,215,672 shares of common stock, no par value

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

The definitive proxy statement of West Bancorporation, Inc., which was filed on March 3, 2016,1, 2018, is incorporated by reference into Part III hereof to the extent indicated in such Part.

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FORM 10-K
TABLE OF CONTENTS
   
   
   
PART I
   
ITEM 1.
   
ITEM 1A.
   
ITEM 1B.
   
ITEM 2.
   
ITEM 3.
   
ITEM 4.
   
PART II
   
ITEM 5.
   
ITEM 6.
   
ITEM 7.
   
ITEM 7A.
   
ITEM 8.
   
ITEM 9.
   
ITEM 9A.
   
ITEM 9B.
   
PART III
   
ITEM 10.
   
ITEM 11.
   
ITEM 12.
   
ITEM 13.
   
ITEM 14.
   
PART IV
   
ITEM 15.
ITEM 16.

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"SAFE HARBOR"HARBOR” CONCERNING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Certain statements in this report, other than purely historical information, including estimates, projections, statements relating to ourthe Company’s business plans, objectives and expected operating results, and the assumptions upon which those statements are based, are “forward-looking statements” within the meanings of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act). Forward-looking statements may appear throughout this report. These forward-looking statements are generally identified by the words “believes,” “expects,” “intends,” “anticipates,” “projects,” “future,” “may,” “should,” “will,” “strategy,” “plan,” “opportunity,” “will be,” “will likely result,” “will continue” or similar references, or references to estimates, predictions or future events.  Such forward-looking statements are based upon certain underlying assumptions, risks and uncertainties.  Because of the possibility that the underlying assumptions are incorrect or do not materialize as expected in the future, actual results could differ materially from these forward-looking statements.  Risks and uncertainties that may affect future results include: interest rate risk; competitive pressures; pricing pressures on loans and deposits; changes in credit and other risks posed by the Company'sCompany’s loan and investment portfolios, including declines in commercial or residential real estate values or changes in the allowance for loan losses dictated by new market conditions or regulatory requirements; actions of bank and nonbank competitors; changes in local, national and nationalinternational economic conditions; changes in legal and regulatory requirements, limitations and costs; changes in customers'customers’ acceptance of the Company'sCompany’s products and services; cyber-attacks; unexpected outcomes of existing or new litigation involving the Company; and any other risks described in the “Risk Factors” sections of this and other reports filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission.Commission (the SEC). The Company undertakes no obligation to revise or update such forward-looking statements to reflect current or future events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

PART I

ITEM 1.  BUSINESS

General Development of Business

West Bancorporation, Inc. (the Company or West Bancorporation) is an Iowa corporation and a bankfinancial holding company registered under the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended (BHCA).  The Company was formed in 1984 to own West Des Moines State Bank, an Iowa-chartered bank headquartered in West Des Moines, Iowa.  West Des Moines State Bank is now known as West Bank.  West Bank is a business-focused community bank that was organized in 1893. The Company'sCompany’s primary activity during 20152017 was the ownership of West Bank. The Company'sCompany’s and West Bank'sBank’s only business is banking, and therefore, no segment information is presented in this report.

As a financial holding company, the Company has additional flexibility to engage in a broader range of financial activities through affiliates than are permissible for bank holding companies that are not financial holding companies. While the Company does not currently have a plan to engage in any new activities, as a financial holding company, it has the ability to respond more quickly to market developments and opportunities.

The Company operates in three markets: central Iowa, which is generally the greater Des Moines metropolitan area; eastern Iowa, which is the area including and surrounding Iowa City and Coralville, Iowa; and the Rochester, Minnesota, area.

The Company's vision is to achieve and sustain a position of industry envy and admiration. OurCompany’s financial performance goal is to be in the top quartile of our benchmarking peer group, which in 2015at the end of 2017 consisted of 1615 Midwestern, publicly traded financial institutions. The Company and West Bank achieved strong results in the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015 was a great year for the Company and West Bank2017, as measured by the following four key metrics:
lReturn on average assets:1.301.18%
lReturn on average equity:14.8813.29%
l
Efficiency ratio:ratio (1):
46.3045.39%
lTexas ratio:0.870.32%
(1) As presented, this is a non-GAAP financial measure. See Part II, Item 7 - "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" for additional details.



Based on peer group analysis using data from the nine months ended September 30, 20152017, which is the latest available data, Companythe Company’s results and ratios throughfor the third quarter of 2015fiscal year 2017 were better than those of each member of our defined peer group for each of the measures shown above.above, except for one peer that had a higher return on average assets. The Company’s ratios for the year ended December 31, 2017, were affected by a one-time increase in federal income tax expense related to the enactment of tax reform legislation on December 22, 2017. The tax legislation reduces the federal corporate tax rate from a maximum rate of 35 percent to a flat rate of 21 percent effective January 1, 2018. Accounting guidance requires companies to revalue their deferred tax assets or liabilities using the enacted tax rates, thus causing the one-time decline in net deferred tax assets and increase in tax expense. Management expects peer results to be similarly affected by the legislation. We currently believe our fiscal year 20152017 results will remain in the top quartile once comparable peer results are available.

In early 2015,During 2017, the Company received a number of financial performance recognitions, including the following:

West Bancorporation received national recognition from investment bank and research firm Raymond James & Associates, Inc. included West Bank on itsin the annual Raymond James Community Bankers Cup, awards listing of thewhich identifies America’s top 10 percent of community banks in the United States. The awards were based on profitability, operational efficiency and balance sheet metrics. The pool of 306 community banks considered for recognition were allperforming publicly traded domesticcommunity banks with assets between $500 million and $10 billion as of December 31, 2014.billion. The CompanyRaymond James Community Bankers Cup recognizes the top exchange-traded community banks based on various profitability, operational efficiency, and balance sheet metrics. Raymond James ranked West Bancorporation number 4 in the nation for 2016. This is the fourth consecutive year we have made this list.

West Bancorporation was ranked number four out6 among the publicly traded banks with assets between $1 billion and $5 billion in Bank Director Magazine’s 2017 Bank Performance Scorecard. The rankings were based on five measures related to profitability, capitalization and asset quality. This is the fifth consecutive year we have made this list.

American Banker Magazine, the publication of the 306American Bankers Association, rated community banks across America and was the only Iowa bank and one of very few from the Midwest.



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The Company was named a "Sm-All Star" for the fourth yearbased on three-year average return on average equity. West Bancorporation came in a row by the investment banking firm Sandler O’Neill + Partners, L.P. This list is composed of top-performing, publicly traded, small-cap banks and thriftsat number 9 in the United States. For purposes of this analysis, small-cap companies were thoseAll public financial institutions across the United States with a market value between $25 million and $2.5 billion. Out of 435 comparable banks across America, only 34 were named as 2015 Sm-All Stars. The Company was the only bank or thrift on the list in 2015 to receive the honor for the fourth consecutive year and was the only Iowa or Minnesota bank holding company to be recognized. The criteria used to determine the 2015 Sm-All Stars concentrated on growth, profitability, credit quality and capital strength. Additional criteria included having a net charge-off ratio over the prior 12 monthsassets of less than 0.25 percent and a tangible common equity ratio above 7.00 percent as of June 30, 2015.$2 billion were eligible for inclusion on this list.

The Company continued to grow in 2015,2017, as loans outstanding at the end of 20152017 totaled $1.25$1.51 billion compared to $1.18$1.40 billion at the end of 2014,2016, an increase of 5.37.9 percent. Total deposits grew 13.417.1 percent during 2015at December 31, 2017 from the balances as of December 31, 2014.2016. We believe the pipeline for new business is good, as we continue to focus efforts on sales through strengthening existing relationships and developing new relationships. We are confident in our ability to cultivate quality relationships and deliver excellent service.

The Company'sIn November 2016, the Company’s Rochester, Minnesota, office which opened in March 2013, again experiencedwas moved from a temporary leased space into a new permanent building. The Rochester office continued to experience strong growth in 2015. After almost three years of operations, this location had approximately $87 million of loans outstanding as of December 31, 2015. It is expected that this office will continue to have a strong growth rate in 2016. In October 2015, the Company broke ground on a new permanent office in Rochester. The new facility is expected to open in the third quarter of 2016. Once completed, the lease for the current office space will be terminated.2017. The Company believes that southeastern Minnesota is a desirable market and an economic bedrock due to the strength and projected growth of the Mayo Clinic.Clinic, which is headquartered in Rochester.

The Company's new eastern Iowa main office, located at 401 10th Avenue in Coralville, opened on January 21, 2015. Our investment in this new facility signifies our belief in the strength of that market. As a result of the opening of our new office, we vacated our former office in Iowa City effective January 15, 2015.
One of the keys to our 20152017 operating success was an improvement in net interest income as a result of an increase in the average volume of interest-earning assets and reductions in interest rates on deposits.assets. Also contributing to our higher 20152017 earnings was the continued improvement in credit quality.low level of nonperforming assets. As of December 31, 2015,2017, total nonperforming assets declined to $1.5$0.6 million, or 0.080.03 percent of total assets, compared to $4.2$1.0 million, or 0.260.06 percent of total assets, as of December 31, 2014. The lower level of nonperforming assets allowed for resources to be focused on business development rather than managing nonearning assets. In addition, the reduction in nonperforming assets, specifically the elimination of all other real estate owned, resulted in much lower expense related to other real estate owned. We also had one nonrecurring item in the fourth quarter of 2015. West Bank has had an ownership interest in SmartyPig, LLC for several years. On November 30, 2015, SmartyPig, LLC was sold. The Company recognized an after-tax gain of approximately $0.5 million.2016.

The Company declared and paid cash dividends on common stock dividends totaling $0.62$0.71 per share in 20152017 and declared a $0.16an $0.18 quarterly dividend on January 27, 201624, 2018, payable on February 24, 201621, 2018 to stockholders of record on February 10, 2016.7, 2018. The Company expects to continue paying regular quarterly dividends in the future. TheIn the opinion of management, the capital position of the Company was strong at December 31, 2015.2017. The Company'sCompany’s tangible common equity ratio at December 31, 20152017 was 8.71 percent.8.42 percent. As of December 31, 2017, the Company had no intangible assets or preferred stock.

Description of the Company'sCompany’s Business

West Bank provides full-service community banking and trust services to customers located primarily in the Des Moines and Iowa City, Iowa, and the Rochester, Minnesota, metropolitan areas.  West Bank has eight offices in the Des Moines area, one office in Iowa City, one office in Coralville and one office in Rochester, Minnesota.Rochester. West Bank offers all basicmany types of credit to its customers, including commercial, real estate and consumer loans.  West Bank offers trust services, including the administration of estates, conservatorships, personal trusts and agency accounts.  



West Bank offers a full range of deposit services, including checking, savings and money market accounts and time certificates of deposit. West Bank also offers internet, mobile banking and treasury management services, which help to meet the banking needs of its customers and communities.customers. Treasury management services offered to business customers include cash management, client-generated automated clearing house transactions, remote deposit and fraud protection services. Also offered are merchant credit card processing and corporate credit cards.


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West Bank'sBank’s business strategy emphasizes strong business and personal relationships between West Bank and its customers and the delivery of products and services that meet the individualized needs of those customers.  West Bank also emphasizes strong cost controls, while striving to achieve an above average return on equity and return on assets.  To accomplish these goals, West Bank focuses on small- to medium-sized businesses in theits local markets that traditionally wish to develop an exclusive relationship with a single bank.  West Bank has the size to provide the personal attention required by local business owners and the financial expertise and entrepreneurial attitude to help businesses meet their financial service needs.

The economies in our market areas are fairly diversified. The Des Moines, Iowa, metropolitan area has a population of approximately 624,000 and an unemployment rate of 2.4 percent. The major sources of employment in this area include financial services companies, healthcare providers and agribusiness industries along with local school districts and federal, state and local governments. Major employers include Wells Fargo & Co., Mercy Medical Center, UnityPoint Health, Hy-Vee Inc., Principal Financial Group and federal, state and local governments. The Iowa City, Iowa, metropolitan area has a population of approximately 95,000 and an unemployment rate of 2.0 percent. The major sources of employment in this area include educational institutions, healthcare providers, and local schools and government. Major employers include the University of Iowa and University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. The Rochester, Minnesota, metropolitan area has a population of approximately 114,000 and an unemployment rate of 2.2 percent. The major sources of employment in this area include healthcare providers, technology and agribusiness industries, and local schools and government. Major employers include Mayo Clinic, IBM and local governments.

The market areas served by West Bank are highly competitive with respect to both loans and deposits.  West Bank competes with other commercial banks, many of which are subsidiaries of other bank holding companies, credit unions, mortgage companies and other financial service providers. According to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation'sCorporation’s (FDIC) Summary of Deposits, as of June 30, 2015,2017, there were 35 banks operating within Polk County, Iowa, where seven of West Bank'sBank’s offices are located.  As of the same date, West Bank ranked fourth based on total deposits of all banking offices in Polk County.  As of June 30, 2015,2017, there were 1817 banks within Johnson County, Iowa, which includes the Iowa City and Coralville.  Two West Bank offices were located in Johnson County as of June 30, 2015.Coralville offices. As of the same date, West Bank ranked fourth based on total deposits of all banking offices in Johnson County.  West Bank also has one office located in Dallas County, Iowa.  For the entire state of Iowa, West Bank ranked eighthseventh in terms of deposit size as of June 30, 2015.2017. As previously mentioned, West Bank also has one office located in Rochester, Minnesota.

Some of West Bank'sBank’s competitors are locally controlled, while others are regional, national or international companies. The larger national or regional banks have certain competitive advantages due to their ability to undertake substantial advertising campaigns and allocate their investment assets to out-of-market geographic regions with potentially higher returns.  Such banks also offer certain services, for example, international and conduit financing transactions, which are not offered directly by West Bank.  These larger banking organizations also have much higher legal lending limits than West Bank, and therefore, may be better able to service large regional, national and global commercial customers.

In order to compete to the fullest extent possible with the other financial institutions in its primary market areas, West Bank uses the flexibility and knowledge of its local management, Board of Directors and community advisors.  West Bank has a group of community advisors in each of its markets who provide insight to management on current business activity levels and trends. West Bank seeks to capitalize on customers'customers who desire to do business with a local institution. This includes emphasizing specialized services, local promotional activities, and personal contacts by West Bank'sBank’s officers, directors and employees.  In particular, West Bank competes for loans primarily by offering competitive interest rates, experienced lending personnel with local decision-making authority, flexible loan arrangements, quality products and services, and proactive relationship management. West Bank competes for deposits principally by offering depositors a variety of straight-forward deposit programs,products and convenient office locations and hours, along with electronic access and other personalized services.  

West Bank also competes with the general financial markets for funds.  Yields on corporate and government debt securities and commercial paper affect West Bank'sBank’s ability to attract and hold deposits.  West Bank also competes for funds with money market accounts and similar investment vehicles offered by brokerage firms, mutual fund companies, internet banks and others. The competition for these funds is based almost exclusively on yields to customers.

The Company and West Bank had approximately 174162 full-time equivalent employees as of December 31, 20152017.



Supervision and Regulation

General

FDIC-insured institutions, their holding companies and their affiliates are extensively regulated under federal and state law. As a result, our growth and earnings performance may be affected not only by management decisions and general economic conditions, but also by the requirements of federal and state statutes and by the regulations and policies of various bank regulatory agencies, including the Iowa SuperintendentDivision of Banking, (the Iowa Superintendent), the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (Federal Reserve), the FDIC and the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). Furthermore, taxation laws administered by the Internal Revenue Service and state taxing authorities, accounting rules developed by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB), securities laws administered by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)SEC and state securities authorities, and anti-money laundering laws enforced by the U.S. Department of the Treasury (Treasury) have an impact on our business. The effect of these statutes, regulations, regulatory policies and accounting rules are significant to our operations and results, and the nature and extent of future legislative, regulatory or other changes affecting banking organizations are impossible to predict with any certainty.results.


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Federal and state banking laws impose a comprehensive system of supervision, regulation and enforcement on the operations of FDIC-insured institutions, their holding companies and affiliates that is intended primarily for the protection of the FDIC-insured deposits and depositors of banks, rather than stockholders. These federal and state laws, and the regulations of the bank regulatory agencies issued under them, affect, among other things, the scope of our business; the kinds and amounts of investments we may make; reserve requirements; required capital levels relative to our assets; the nature and amount of collateral for loans; the establishment of branches; our ability to merge, consolidate and acquire; dealings with our insiders and affiliates; and our payment of dividends. In the last several years, we have experienced heightened regulatory requirements and scrutiny followingreaction to the global financial crisis and as a resultparticularly following the passage of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010 (Dodd-Frank Act)., we experienced heightened regulatory requirements and scrutiny. Although the reforms primarily targeted systemically important financial service providers, their influence filtered down in varying degrees to community banks over time and the reforms have caused our compliance and risk management processes, and the costs thereof, to increase. After the 2016 federal elections, momentum to decrease the regulatory burden on community banks gathered strength. Although these deregulatory trends continue to receive much discussion among the banking industry, lawmakers and bank regulatory agencies, little substantive progress has yet been made. The true impact of proposed reforms remains difficult to predict with any certainty.

ThisThe supervisory and regulatory framework for U.S. banking organizations subjects banks and bank holding companies to regular examination by their respective regulatory agencies, which results in examination reports and ratings that are not publicly available and that can impact the conduct and growth of their business. These examinations consider not only compliance with applicable laws and regulations, but also capital levels, asset quality and risk, management ability and performance, earnings, liquidity and various other factors. The regulatory agencies generally have broad discretion to impose restrictions and limitations on the operations of a regulated entity where the agencies determine, among other things, that such operations are unsafe or unsound, fail to comply with applicable lawslaw or are otherwise inconsistent with laws and regulations or with the supervisory policies of these agencies.  

The following is a summary of the material elements of the supervisory and regulatory framework applicable to the Company and West Bank, beginning with a discussion of the continuing regulatory emphasis on our capital levels. It does not describe all of the statutes, regulations and regulatory policies that apply, nor does it restate all of the requirements of those that are described. The descriptions are qualified in their entirety by reference to the particular statutory and regulatory provision.

Regulatory Emphasis on Capital

Regulatory capital represents the net assets of a banking organization available to absorb losses. Because of the risks attendant to their business, FDIC-insured institutions are generally required to hold more capital than other businesses, which directly affects our earnings capabilities. While capital has historically been one of the key measures of the financial health of both bank holding companies and banks, its role became fundamentally more important in the wake of the global financial crisis, as the banking regulators recognized that the amount and quality of capital held by some banks prior to the crisis was insufficient to absorb losses during periods of severe stress. Certain provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act and Basel III, discussed below, establish strengthened capital standards for banks and bank holding companies, require more capital to be held in the form of common stock, and disallow certain funds from being included in capital determinations.  These standards represent regulatory capital requirements that are meaningfully more stringent than those in place previously.



Minimum Required Capital Levels. Banks have been required to hold minimum levels of capital based on guidelines established by the bank regulatory agencies since 1983. The minimums have been expressed in terms of ratios of capital divided by total assets. As discussed below, bank capital measures have become more sophisticated over the years and have focused more on the quality of capital and the risk of assets. Bank holding companies have historically had to comply with less stringent capital standards than their bank subsidiaries and have been able to raise capital with hybrid instruments such as trust preferred securities. The Dodd-Frank Act mandated the Federal Reserve to establish minimum capital levels for holding companies on a consolidated basis as stringent as those required for FDIC-insured institutions. As a consequence, the components of holding company permanent capital known as “Tier 1 Capital” were restricted to those capital instruments that are considered to be Tier 1 Capital for FDIC-insured institutions. A result of this change is that the proceeds of hybrid instruments, such as trust preferred securities, are being excluded from Tier 1 Capitalcapital over a phase-out period. However, if such securities were issued prior to May 19, 2010 by bank holding companies with less than $15 billion of assets, they may be retained, subject to certain restrictions. Because we have assets of less than $15 billion, we are able to maintain our trust preferred proceeds as Tier 1 Capital,capital but we have to comply with new capital mandates in other respects and will not be able to raise Tier 1 Capitalcapital in the future through the issuance of trust preferred securities.

The capital standards for the Company and West Bank changed on January 1, 2015 to add the requirements of Basel III discussed below. The minimum capital standards effective prior to and including December 31, 2014 were:

A leverage requirement, consisting of a minimum ratio of Tier 1 Capital to total adjusted average quarterly assets of 3 percent for the most highly rated banks, with a minimum requirement of at least 4 percent for all others, and

A risk-based capital requirement, consisting of a minimum ratio of Total Capital to total risk-weighted assets of 8 percent and a minimum ratio of Tier 1 Capital to total risk-weighted assets of 4 percent.


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For these purposes, Tier 1 Capital consists primarily of common stock, noncumulative perpetual preferred stock and related surplus less intangible assets (other than certain loan servicing rights and purchased credit card relationships). Total Capital consists primarily of Tier 1 Capital plus “Tier 2 Capital,” which includes other non-permanent capital items, such as certain other debt and equity instruments that do not qualify as Tier 1 Capital, and West Bank’s allowance for loan losses, subject to a limitation of 1.25 percent of risk-weighted assets. Further, risk-weighted assets for the purpose of the risk-weighted ratio calculations are balance sheet assets and off-balance sheet exposures to which required risk weightings of 0 percent to 1,250 percent are applied.  

The Basel International Capital Accords. The risk-based capital guidelines described above arefor U.S. banks since 1989 were based upon the 1988 capital accord known as “Basel I” adopted by the international Basel Committee on Banking Supervision, a committee of central banks and bank supervisors that acts as the primary global standard-setter for prudential regulation, as implemented by the U.S. federal banking regulatorsbank regulatory agencies on an interagency basis. The accord recognized that bank assets for the purpose of the capital ratio calculations needed to be risk-weighted (the theory being that riskier assets should require more capital) and that off-balance sheet exposures needed to be factored in the calculations. Basel I had a very simple formula for assigning risk weights to bank assets from 0 percent to 100 percent based on four categories.  In 2008, the banking agencies collaboratively began to phase-in capital standards based on a second capital accord, referred to as “Basel II,” for large or “core” international banks (generally defined for U.S. purposes as having total assets of $250 billion or more, or consolidated foreign exposures of $10 billion or more). known as “advanced approaches” banks. The primary focus of Basel II was on the calculation of risk weights based on complex models developed by each advanced approaches bank. As most banks were not subject to Basel II, the U.S. bank regulators worked to improve the risk sensitivity of Basel I standards without imposing the complexities of Basel II. This “standardized approach” increased the number of risk weight categories and recognized risks well above the original 100 percent risk-weighting. It is institutionalized by the Dodd-Frank Act for all banking organizations, even for the advanced approaches banks, as a floor.

On September 12, 2010, the Group of Governors and Heads of Supervision, the oversight body of the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision, announced agreement on a strengthened set of capital requirements for banking organizations around the world, known as Basel III,“Basel III”, to address deficiencies recognized in connection with the global financial crisis. Because of Dodd-Frank Act requirements, Basel III essentially layers a new set of capital standards on the previously existing Basel I standards.

The Basel III Rule. In July of 2013, the U.S. federal banking agencies approved the implementation of the Basel III regulatory capital reforms in pertinent part, and, at the same time, promulgated rules effecting certain changes required by the Dodd-Frank Act (the Basel III Rule). In contrast to capital requirements historically, which were in the form of guidelines, Basel III was released in the form of regulations by each of the regulatory agencies. The Basel III Rule is applicable to all banking organizations that are subject to minimum capital requirements, including federal and state banks and savings and loan associations, as well as to bank and savings and loan holding companies, other than “small bank holding companies” (generally bank holding companies with consolidated assets of less than $1 billion).

The Basel III Rule notrequired higher capital levels, increased the required quality of capital, and required more detailed categories of risk-weighting of riskier, more opaque assets. For nearly every class of assets, the Basel III Rule requires a more complex, detailed and calibrated assessment of credit risk and calculation of risk weightings.

Not only increaseddid the Basel III Rule increase most of the required minimum capital ratios effectivein effect prior to January 1, 2015, but it also introduced the concept of Common Equity Tier 1 Capital, which consists primarily of common stock, related surplus (net of Treasury stock), retained earnings, and Common Equity Tier 1 minority interests subject to certain regulatory adjustments. The Basel III Rule also expandedchanged the definition of capital by establishing more stringent criteria that instruments must meet to be considered Additional Tier 1 Capital (Tier 1 Capital in addition to Common Equity)(primarily noncumulative perpetual preferred stock that meets certain requirements) and Tier 2 Capital.Capital (primarily other types of preferred stock, subordinated debt and the allowance for loan losses, subject to limitations). A number of instruments that qualified as Tier 1 Capital under Basel I do not qualify, or their qualifications changed. For example, noncumulative perpetual preferred stock, which qualified as simple Tier 1 Capital under Basel I, does not qualify as Common Equity Tier 1 Capital, but qualifies as Additional Tier 1 Capital. The Basel III Rule also constrained the inclusion of minority interests, mortgage-servicing assets, and deferred tax assets in capital and requiredrequires deductions from Common Equity Tier 1 Capital in the event that such assets exceed a certain percentage of a banking institution’s Common Equity Tier 1 Capital.



The Basel III Rule requiresrequired minimum capital ratios beginningas of January 1, 2015, as follows:

A new ratio of minimum Common Equity Tier 1 Capital equal to 4.5 percent of total risk-weighted assets;

An increase in the minimum required amount of Tier 1 Capital from 4 percent to 6 percent of total risk-weighted assets;

A continuation of the current minimum required amount of Total Capital (Tier 1 plus Tier 2) at 8 percent of total risk-weighted assets; and

A minimum leverage ratio of Tier 1 Capital to total quarterly average assets equal to 4 percent in all circumstances.

In addition, institutions that seek the freedom to make capital distributions (including for dividends and repurchases of stock) and pay discretionary bonuses to executive officers without restriction must also maintain 2.5 percent in Common Equity Tier 1 Capital attributable to a capital conservation buffer to bebeing phased in over three years beginning in 2016.2016 (as of January 1, 2018, it had phased in to 1.875 percent). The purpose of the conservation buffer is to ensure that banking institutions maintain a buffer of capital that can be used to absorb losses during periods of financial and economic stress. Factoring in the fully phased-in conservation buffer increases the minimum ratios depicted above to 7 percent for Common Equity Tier 1 Capital, 8.5 percent for Tier 1 Capital and 10.5 percent for Total Capital.

Not only did the capital requirements change but the risk weightings (or their methodologies) for bank assets that are used to determine the capital ratios changed as well. For nearly every class of assets, the Basel III Rule requires a more complex, detailed and calibrated assessment of credit risk and calculation of risk weightings.


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Banking organizations (except for large, internationally active banking organizations) became subject to the new rules on January 1, 2015. However, there are separate phase-in/phase-out periods for: (i) the capital conservation buffer; (ii) regulatory capital adjustments and deductions; (iii) nonqualifying capital instruments; and (iv) changes to the prompt corrective action rules discussed below. The phase-in periods commenced on January 1, 2016 and extend until January 1, 2019.

Well-Capitalized Requirements. The ratios described above are minimum standards in order for banking organizations to be considered “adequately capitalized.” Bank regulatory agencies uniformly encourage banks and bank holding companies to hold more capital and be “well-capitalized” and, to that end, federal law and regulations provide various incentives for banking organizations to maintain regulatory capital at levels in excess of minimum regulatory requirements. For example, a banking organization that is well-capitalized may: (i) qualify for exemptions from prior notice or application requirements otherwise applicable to certain types of activities; (ii) qualify for expedited processing of other required notices or applications; and (iii) accept, roll-over or renew brokered deposits. Higher capital levels could also be required if warranted by the particular circumstances or risk profiles of individual banking organizations. For example, the Federal Reserve’s capital guidelines contemplate that additional capital may be required to take adequate account of, among other things, interest rate risk, or the risks posed by concentrations of credit, nontraditional activities or securities trading activities. Further, any banking organization experiencing or anticipating significant growth would be expected to maintain capital ratios, including tangible capital positions (i.e., Tier 1 Capital less all intangible assets), well above the minimum levels.

Under the capital regulations of the FDIC and Federal Reserve, in order to be well-capitalized, a banking organization must maintain:

A new Common Equity Tier 1 Capital ratio to total risk-weighted assets of 6.5 percent or more;

A minimum ratio of Tier 1 Capital to total risk-weighted assets of 8 percent or more (6 percent under Basel I);

A minimum ratio of Total Capital to total risk-weighted assets of 10 percent or more (the same as Basel I); and

A leverage ratio of Tier 1 Capital to total adjusted average quarterly assets of 5 percent or greater.

It is possible under the Basel III Rule to be well-capitalized while remaining out of compliance with the capital conservation buffer discussed above.

As of December 31, 2015:2017: (i) West Bank was not subject to a directive from the FDIC to increase its capital, and (ii) West Bank was well-capitalized, as defined by FDIC regulations. As of December 31, 2015,2017, the Company had regulatory capital in excess of the Federal Reserve’s requirements and met the fully phased-in Basel III Rule requirements to be well-capitalized.requirements.



Prompt Corrective Action. An FDIC-insured institution’s capital plays an important role in connection with regulatory enforcement as well. Federal law provides the federal banking regulators with broad power to take prompt corrective action to resolve the problems of undercapitalized institutions. The extent of the regulators’ powers depends on whether the institution in question is “adequately capitalized,” “undercapitalized,” “significantly undercapitalized” or “critically undercapitalized,” in each case as defined by regulation. Depending upon the capital category to which an institution is assigned, the regulators’ corrective powers include: (i) requiring the institution to submit a capital restoration plan; (ii) limiting the institution’s asset growth and restricting its activities; (iii) requiring the institution to issue additional capital stock (including additional voting stock) or to sell itself; (iv) restricting transactions between the institution and its affiliates; (v) restricting the interest rates that the institution may pay on deposits; (vi) ordering a new election of directors of the institution; (vii) requiring that senior executive officers or directors be dismissed; (viii) prohibiting the institution from accepting deposits from correspondent banks; (ix) requiring the institution to divest certain subsidiaries; (x) prohibiting the payment of principal or interest on subordinated debt; and (xi) ultimately, appointing a receiver for the institution.

Regulation and Supervision of the Company

General. The Company, as the sole stockholder of West Bank, is a bank holding company.company that has elected financial holding company status. As a bankfinancial holding company, we are registered with, and subject to regulation by, the Federal Reserve under the BHCA. We are legally obligated to act as a source of financial and managerial strength to West Bank and to commit resources to support West Bank in circumstances where we might not otherwise do so. Under the BHCA, we are subject to periodic examination by the Federal Reserve and are required to file with the Federal Reserve periodic reports of our operations and such additional information regarding us and West Bank as the Federal Reserve may require.


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Acquisitions, Activities and Change in Control. The primary purpose of a bank holding company is to control and manage banks. The BHCA generally requires the prior approval of the Federal Reserve for any merger involving a bank holding company or any acquisition by a bank holding company of another bank or bank holding company. Subject to certain conditions (including deposit concentration limits established by the BHCA), the Federal Reserve may allow a bank holding company to acquire banks located in any state of the United States. In approving interstate acquisitions, the Federal Reserve is required to give effect to applicable state law limitations on the aggregate amount of deposits that may be held by the acquiring bank holding company and its FDIC-insured institution affiliates in the state in which the target bank is located (provided that those limits do not discriminate against out-of-state institutions or their holding companies) and state laws that require that the target bank have been in existence for a minimum period of time (not to exceed five years) before being acquired by an out-of-state bank holding company. Furthermore, in accordance with the Dodd-Frank Act, bank holding companies must be well-capitalized and well-managed in order to effect interstate mergers or acquisitions. For a discussion of the capital requirements, see “—Regulatory Emphasis on Capital” above.

The BHCA generally prohibits the Company from acquiring direct or indirect ownership or control of more than five percent of the voting shares of any company that is not a bank and from engaging in any business other than that of banking, managing and controlling banks or furnishing services to banks and their subsidiaries. This general prohibition is subject to a number of exceptions. The principal exception allows bank holding companies to engage in, and to own shares of companies engaged in, certain businesses found by the Federal Reserve prior to November 11, 1999 to be “so closely related to banking ... as to be a proper incident thereto.” This authority would permit us to engage in a variety of banking-related businesses, including the ownership and operation of a savings association, or any entity engaged in consumer finance, equipment leasing, the operation of a computer service bureau (including software development) and mortgage banking and brokerage services. The BHCA does not place territorial restrictions on the domestic activities of nonbank subsidiaries of bank holding companies.

Additionally, bank holding companies that meet certain eligibility requirements prescribed by the BHCA and elect to operate as financial holding companies may engage in, or own shares in companies engaged in, a wider range of nonbanknonbanking activities, including securities and insurance underwriting and sales, merchant banking and any other activity that the Federal Reserve, in consultation with the Secretary of the Treasury, determines by regulation or order is financial in nature or incidental to any such financial activity or that the Federal Reserve determines by order to be complementary to any such financial activity and does not pose a substantial risk to the safety or soundness of FDIC-insured institutions or the financial system generally. We have notIn the third quarter of 2016, we elected to operate as a financial holding company. In order to maintain our status as a financial holding company, both the Company and West Bank must be well-capitalized, well-managed, and have at least a satisfactory Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) rating. If the Federal Reserve determines that we are not well-capitalized or well-managed, we will have a period of time in which to achieve compliance, but during the period of noncompliance, the Federal Reserve may place any limitations on us it believes to be appropriate. Furthermore, if the Federal Reserve determines that West Bank has not received a satisfactory CRA rating, we will not be able to commence any new financial activities or acquire a company that engages in such activities. As of December 31, 2017, we retained our election as a financial holding company, but we have not engaged in any activity and did not own any assets for which a financial holding company designation was required. The election affords the ability to respond more quickly to market developments and opportunities.


Federal law also prohibits any person or company from acquiring “control” of an FDIC-insured depository institution or its holding company without prior notice to the appropriate federal bank regulator. Control is conclusively presumed to exist upon the acquisition of 25 percent or more of the outstanding voting securities of a bank or bank holding company, but may arise under certain circumstances between 10 percent and 24.99 percent ownership.

Capital Requirements. Bank holding companies are required to maintain capital in accordance with Federal Reserve capital adequacy requirements, as affected by the Dodd-Frank Act and Basel III.requirements. For a discussion of capital requirements, see “—Regulatory Emphasis on Capital” above.

Dividend Payments. Our ability to pay dividends to our stockholders may be affected by both general corporate law considerations and policies of the Federal Reserve applicable to bank holding companies. As an Iowa corporation, we are subject to the limitations of Iowa law, which allows us to pay dividends unless, after such dividend, (i) we would not be able to pay our debts as they become due in the usual course of business or (ii) our total assets would be less than the sum of our total liabilities plus any amount that would be needed if we were to be dissolved at the time of the dividend payment, to satisfy the preferential rights upon dissolution of stockholders whose rights are superior to the rights of the stockholders receiving the distribution.

As a general matter, the Federal Reserve has indicated that the board of directors of a bank holding company should eliminate, defer or significantly reduce dividends to stockholders if: (i) the company’s net income available to stockholders for the past four quarters, net of dividends previously paid during that period, is not sufficient to fully fund the dividends; (ii) the prospective rate of earnings retention is inconsistent with the company’s capital needs and overall current and prospective financial condition; or (iii) the company will not meet, or is in danger of not meeting, its minimum regulatory capital adequacy ratios. The Federal Reserve also possesses enforcement powers over bank holding companies and their nonbank subsidiaries to prevent or remedy actions that represent unsafe or unsound practices or violations of applicable statutes and regulations. Among these powers is the ability to proscribe the payment of dividends by banks and bank holding companies. In addition, under the Basel III Rule, institutions that seek the freedom to pay dividends will have to maintain 2.5 percent in Common Equity Tier 1 Capital attributable to the capital conservation buffer to be phased in over three years beginning in 2016. See “—Regulatory Emphasis on Capital” above.


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TableIncentive Compensation. There have been a number of Contentsdevelopments in recent years focused on incentive compensation plans sponsored by bank holding companies and banks, reflecting recognition by the bank regulatory agencies and Congress that flawed incentive compensation practices in the financial industry were one of many factors contributing to the global financial crisis. Layered on top of that are the abuses in the headlines dealing with product cross-selling incentive plans. The result is interagency guidance on sound incentive compensation practices and proposed rulemaking by the agencies required under Section 956 of the Dodd-Frank Act.

The interagency guidance recognized three core principles: Effective incentive plans should: (i) provide employees incentives that appropriately balance risk and reward; (ii) be compatible with effective controls and risk-management; and (iii) be supported by strong corporate governance, including active and effective oversight by the organization’s board of directors. Much of the guidance addresses large banking organizations and, because of the size and complexity of their operations, the regulators expect those organizations to maintain systematic and formalized policies, procedures, and systems for ensuring that the incentive compensation arrangements for all executive and non-executive employees covered by this guidance are identified and reviewed, and appropriately balance risks and rewards. Smaller banking organizations, like the Company, that use incentive compensation arrangements are expected to be less extensive, formalized, and detailed than those of the larger banks. 

Section 956 of the Dodd-Frank Act required the banking agencies, the National Credit Union Administration, the SEC and the Federal Housing Finance Agency to jointly prescribe regulations that prohibit types of incentive-based compensation that encourage inappropriate risk taking and to disclose certain information regarding such plans. On June 10, 2016, the agencies released an updated proposed rule for comment. Section 956 will only apply to banking organizations with assets of greater than $1 billion. We have consolidated assets greater than $1 billion and less than $50 billion and are considered a Level 3 banking organization under the proposed rules. The proposed rules contain mostly general principles and reporting requirements for Level 3 institutions, so there are no specific prescriptions or limits, deferral requirements or claw-back mandates. Risk management and controls are required, as is board or committee level approval and oversight. Management expects to review its incentive plans in light of the proposed rulemaking and guidance and implement policies and procedures that mitigate unreasonable risk. As of December 31, 2017, these rules remain in proposed form.

Monetary Policy. The monetary policy of the Federal Reserve has a significant effect on the operating results of financial or bank holding companies and their subsidiaries. Among the tools available to the Federal Reserve to affect the money supply are open market transactions in U.S. government securities, changes in the discount rate on member bank borrowings and changes in reserve requirements against bank deposits. These means are used in varying combinations to influence overall growth and distribution of bank loans, investments and deposits, and their use may affect interest rates charged on loans or paid on deposits.



Federal Securities Regulation. Our common stock is registered with the SEC under the Securities Exchange Act.Act of 1934, as amended (Exchange Act). Consequently, we are subject to the information, proxy solicitation, insider trading and other restrictions and requirements of the SEC under the Exchange Act.

Corporate Governance. The Dodd-Frank Act addressed many investor protection, corporate governance and executive compensation matters that will affect most U.S. publicly traded companies. The Dodd-Frank Act increased stockholder influence over boards of directors by requiring companies to give stockholders a nonbinding vote on executive compensation and so-called “golden parachute” payments, and authorizing the SEC to promulgate rules that would allow stockholders to nominate and solicit voters for their own candidates using a company’s proxy materials. The legislation also directed the Federal Reserve to promulgate rules prohibiting excessive compensation paid to executives of bank holding companies, regardless of whether such companies are publicly traded.

Regulation and Supervision of West Bank

General. West Bank is an Iowa-chartered bank. The deposit accounts of West Bank are insured by the FDIC’s Deposit Insurance Fund (DIF) to the maximum extent provided under federal law and FDIC regulations.regulations, currently $250,000 per insured depositor category. As an Iowa-chartered FDIC-insured bank, West Bank is subject to the examination, supervision, reporting and enforcement requirements of the Iowa Superintendent,Division of Banking, the chartering authority for Iowa banks, and the FDIC, designated by federal law as the primary federal regulator of insured state banks that, like West Bank, are not members of the Federal Reserve System (nonmember banks).

Deposit Insurance. As an FDIC-insured institution, West Bank is required to pay deposit insurance premium assessments to the FDIC.  The FDIC has adopted a risk-based assessment system whereby FDIC-insured institutions pay insurance premiums at rates based on their risk classification. An institution’s risk classification is assignedFor institutions, like West Bank, that are not considered large and highly complex banking organizations, assessments are now based on its capital levelsexamination ratings and the level of supervisory concern the institution poses to the regulators. For deposit insurance assessment purposes, an FDIC-insured institution is placed in one of four risk categories each quarter. An institution’s assessment is determined by multiplying its assessment rate by its assessment base.financial ratios. The total base assessment rates currently range from 2.51.5 basis points to 4530 basis points. The assessment base is calculated using average consolidated total assets minus average tangible equity. At least semi-annually, the FDIC will updateupdates its loss and income projections for the DIF and, if needed, will increaseincreases or decreasedecreases the assessment rates, following notice and comment on proposed rulemaking.

Amendments to the Federal Deposit Insurance Act revised the The assessment base against which an FDIC-insured institution’s deposit insurance premiums paid to the DIF are calculated to beis based on its average consolidated total assets less its average tangible equity.  This change shiftedmethod shifts the burden of deposit insurance premiums toward those large depository institutions that rely on funding sources other than U.S. deposits. Additionally,

The reserve ratio is the FDIC insurance fund balance divided by estimated insured deposits.The Dodd-Frank Act altered the minimum designated reserve ratio of the DIF, increasing the minimum from 1.15 percent to 1.35 percent of the estimated amount of total insured deposits, and eliminating the requirement that the FDIC pay dividends to FDIC-insured institutions when the reserve ratio exceeds certain thresholds.  The FDIC has until September 3, 2020 to meet the 1.35 percent reserve ratio target. In lieureached 1.28 percent as of dividends, the FDIC has adopted progressively lower assessment rate schedules that will take effect whenSeptember 30, 2017 (most recent available.) If the reserve ratio exceedsdoes not reach 1.35 percent by December 31, 2018 (provided it is at least 1.15 percent, 2 percent and 2.5 percent. As a consequence, premiums will generally decrease once the 1.15 percent threshold is exceeded. In June 2015 and January 2016,percent), the FDIC approvedwill impose a Notice of Proposed Rulemakingshortfall assessment on refinements to the deposit insurance assessment for smallMarch 31, 2019 on insured depository institutions (generally thosewith total consolidated assets of $10 billion or more. The FDIC will provide assessment credits to insured depository institutions, like West Bank, with total consolidated assets of less than $10 billion for the portion of their regular assessments that contribute to growth in total assets). Several of these provisions could increase West Bank’sthe reserve ratio between 1.15 percent and 1.35 percent. The FDIC will apply the credits each quarter that the reserve ratio is at least 1.38 percent to offset the regular deposit insurance premiums.

The Dodd-Frank Act permanently established the maximum amountassessments of deposit insurance for banks, savings institutions and credit unions to $250,000 per insured depositor.with credits.

FICO Assessments.   In addition to paying basic deposit insurance assessments, FDIC-insured institutions must pay Financing Corporation (FICO) assessments. FICO is a mixed-ownership governmental corporation chartered by the former Federal Home Loan Bank Board pursuant to the Competitive Equality Banking Act of 1987 to function as a financing vehicle for the recapitalization of the former Federal Savings and Loan Insurance Corporation. FICO issued 30-year noncallable bonds of approximately $8.1 billion that mature in 2017 through 2019. FICO’s authority to issue bonds ended on December 12, 1991. Since 1996, federal legislation has required that all FDIC-insured institutions pay assessments to cover interest payments on FICO’s outstanding obligations. The FICO assessment rate is adjusted quarterly and for the fourth quarter of 20152017 was 0.600.54 basis points (60(54 cents per $100 dollars of assessable deposits).


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Supervisory Assessments. All Iowa banks are required to pay supervisory assessments to the Iowa SuperintendentDivision of Banking to fund the operations of that agency. The amount of the assessment is calculated on the basis of West Bank’s total assets. During the year ended December 31, 2015,2017, West Bank paid supervisory assessments to the Iowa SuperintendentDivision of Banking totaling approximately $111,000.$122,000.

Capital Requirements. Banks are generally required to maintain capital levels in excess of other businesses. For a discussion of capital requirements, see “—Regulatory Emphasis on Capital” above.



Liquidity Requirements. Liquidity is a measure of the ability and ease with which bank assets may be converted to cash. Liquid assets are those that can be converted to cash quickly if needed to meet financial obligations. To remain viable, FDIC-insured institutions must have enough liquid assets to meet their near-term obligations, such as withdrawals by depositors. In addition to liquidity guidelines already in place, the U.S. bank regulatory agencies implemented the Basel III Liquidity Coverage Ratios (LCR) in September 2014, which requiresrequire large financial firms to hold levels of liquid assets sufficient to protect against constraints on their funding during times of financial turmoil. While the LCR only applies to the largest banking organizations in the country, certain elements are expected to filter down to all FDIC-insured institutions.

Stress Testing. A stress test is an analysis or simulation designed to determine the ability of a given FDIC-insured institution to deal with an economic crisis. In October 2012, U.S. bank regulators unveiled new rules mandated by the Dodd-Frank Act that require the largest U.S. banks to undergo stress tests twice per year, once internally and once conducted by the regulators, and began recommending portfolio stress testing as a sound risk management practice for community banks. While stressregulators. Stress tests are not officially required for banks with less than $10 billion in assets, they have become part of annual regulatory exams even for banks small enough to be officially exempted fromassets; however, the process. The FDIC now recommends stress testing as a means to identify and quantify loan portfolio risk, and West Bank is conducting quarterly commercial real estate portfolio stress testing.

Dividend Payments. The primary source of funds for the Company is dividends from West Bank. Under the Iowa Banking Act, Iowa-chartered banks generally may pay dividends only out of undivided profits. The Iowa SuperintendentDivision of Banking may restrict the declaration or payment of a dividend by an Iowa-chartered bank, such as West Bank. The payment of dividends by any FDIC-insured institution is affected by the requirement to maintain adequate capital pursuant to applicable capital adequacy guidelines and regulations, and an FDIC-insured institution generally is prohibited from paying any dividends if, following payment thereof, the institution would be undercapitalized. As described above, West Bank exceeded its capital requirements under applicable guidelines as of December 31, 2015.2017. Notwithstanding the availability of funds for dividends, however, the FDIC and the Iowa SuperintendentDivision of Banking may prohibit the payment of dividends by West Bank if either or both determine such payment would constitute an unsafe or unsound practice. In addition, under the Basel III Rule, institutions that seek the freedom to pay dividends will have to maintain 2.5 percent in Common Equity Tier 1 Capital attributable to the capital conservation buffer to be phased in over three years beginning in 2016. See “—Regulatory Emphasis on Capital” above.

State Bank Investments and Activities. West Bank is permitted to make investments and engage in activities directly or through subsidiaries as authorized by Iowa law. However, under federal law and FDIC regulations, FDIC-insured state banks are prohibited, subject to certain exceptions, from making or retaining equity investments of a type, or in an amount, that are not permissible for a national bank. Federal law and FDIC regulations also prohibit FDIC-insured state banks and their subsidiaries, subject to certain exceptions, from engaging as principal in any activity that is not permitted for a national bank unless West Bank meets, and continues to meet, its minimum regulatory capital requirements and the FDIC determines that the activity would not pose a significant risk to the DIF. These restrictions have not had, and are not currently expected to have, a material impact on the operations of West Bank.

Insider Transactions. West Bank is subject to certain restrictions imposed by federal law on “covered transactions” between West Bank and its “affiliates.” The Company is an affiliate of West Bank for purposes of these restrictions, and covered transactions subject to the restrictions include extensions of credit to the Company, investments in the stock or other securities of the Company, and the acceptance of the stock or other securities of the Company as collateral for loans made by West Bank. The Dodd-Frank Act enhanced the requirements for certain transactions with affiliates, including an expansion of the definition of covered transactions“covered transactions” and an increase in the amount of time for which collateral requirements regarding covered transactions must be maintained.

Certain limitations and reporting requirements are also placed on extensions of credit by West Bank to its directors and officers, to directors and officers of the Company and its subsidiaries, to principal stockholders of the Company and to “related interests” of such directors, officers and principal stockholders. In addition, federal law and regulations may affect the terms upon which any person who is a director or officer of the Company or West Bank, or a principal stockholder of the Company, may obtain credit from banks with which West Bank maintains a correspondent relationship.


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Safety and Soundness Standards/Risk Management. The federal banking agencies have adopted guidelines that establish operational and managerial standards to promote the safety and soundness of FDIC-insured institutions. The guidelines set forth standards for internal controls, information systems, internal audit systems, loan documentation, credit underwriting, interest rate exposure, asset growth, compensation, fees and benefits, asset quality and earnings.



In general, the safety and soundness guidelines prescribe the goals to be achieved in each area, and each institution is responsible for establishing its own procedures to achieve those goals. If an institution fails to comply with any of the standards set forth in the guidelines, the FDIC-insured institution’s primary federal regulator may require the institution to submit a plan for achieving and maintaining compliance. If an FDIC-insured institution fails to submit an acceptable compliance plan, or fails in any material respect to implement a compliance plan that has been accepted by its primary federal regulator, the regulator is required to issue an order directing the institution to cure the deficiency. Until the deficiency cited in the regulator’s order is cured, the regulator may restrict the FDIC-insured institution’s rate of growth, require the FDIC-insured institution to increase its capital, restrict the rates the institution pays on deposits, or require the institution to take any action the regulator deems appropriate under the circumstances. Noncompliance with the standards established by the safety and soundness guidelines may also constitute grounds for other enforcement action by the federal bank regulatory agencies, including cease and desist orders and civil money penalty assessments.

During the past decade, the bank regulatory agencies have increasingly emphasized the importance of sound risk management processes and strong internal controls when evaluating the activities of the FDIC-insured institutions they supervise. Properly managing risks has been identified as critical to the conduct of safe and sound banking activities and has become even more important as new technologies, product innovation, and the size and speed of financial transactions have changed the nature of banking markets. The agencies have identified a spectrum of risks facing a banking institution including, but not limited to, credit, market, liquidity, operational, legal and reputational risk. In particular, recent regulatory pronouncements have focused on operational risk, which arises from the potential that inadequate information systems, operational problems, breaches in internal controls, fraud, or unforeseen catastrophes will result in unexpected losses. New products and services, third-party risk management and cybersecurity are critical sources of operational risk that FDIC-insured institutions are expected tomust address in the current environment. West Bank is expected to have active Boardboard and senior management oversight; adequate policies, procedures and limits; adequate risk measurement, monitoring and management information systems; and comprehensive internal controls.

Branching Authority. Iowa banks, such as West Bank, have the authority under Iowa law to establish branches anywhere in the State of Iowa, subject to receipt of all required regulatory approvals. Federal law permits state and national banks to merge with banks in other states subject to: (i) regulatory approval; (ii) federal and state deposit concentration limits; and (iii) state law limitations requiring the merging bank to have been in existence for a minimum period of time (not to exceed five years) prior to the merger. The establishment of new interstate branches has historically been permitted only in those states the laws of which expressly authorize such expansion. The Dodd-Frank Act permits well-capitalized and well-managed banks to establish new interstate branches or the acquisition of individual branches of a bank in another state (rather than the acquisition of an out-of-state bank in its entirety) without impediments.

Transaction Account Reserves. Federal Reserve regulations require FDIC-insured institutions to maintain reserves against their transaction accounts (primarily NOW and regular checking accounts). For 20162018, the first $15.2$16 million of otherwise reservable balances are exempt from reserves and have noa zero percent reserve requirement; for transaction accounts aggregating more than $15.2$16 million to $110.2$122.3 million, the reserve requirement is 3 percent of total transaction accounts; and for net transaction accounts in excess of $110.2$122.3 million, the reserve requirement is 3 percent up to $110.2$122.3 million plus 10 percent of the aggregate amount of total transaction accounts in excess of $110.2$122.3 million. These reserve requirements are subject to annual adjustment by the Federal Reserve.

Community Reinvestment Act Requirements. The Community Reinvestment Act requires West Bank to have a continuing and affirmative obligation in a safe and sound manner to help meet the credit needs of its entire community, including low- and moderate-income neighborhoods. Federal regulators regularly assess West Bank’s record of meeting the credit needs of its communities. Applications for additional acquisitions would be affected by the evaluation of West Bank’s effectiveness in meeting its Community Reinvestment Act requirements.

Anti-Money Laundering. The Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001 (the Patriot(USA PATRIOT Act) is designed to deny terrorists and criminals the ability to obtain access to the U.S. financial system and has significant implications for FDIC-insured institutions, brokers, dealers and other businesses involved in the transfer of money. The PatriotUSA PATRIOT Act mandates financial services companies to have policies and procedures with respect to measures designed to address any or all of the following matters: (i) customer identification programs; (ii) money laundering; (iii) terrorist financing; (iv) identifying and reporting suspicious activities and currency transactions; (v) currency crimes; and (vi) cooperation between FDIC-insured institutions and law enforcement authorities.


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Concentrations in Commercial Real Estate. Concentration risk exists when FDIC-insured institutions deploy too many assets to any one industry or segment. A concentration in commercial real estate is one example of regulatory concern. The interagency Concentrations in Commercial Real Estate Lending, Sound Risk Management Practices guidance (CRE Guidance) provides supervisory criteria, including the following numerical indicators, to assist bank examiners in identifying banks with potentially significant commercial real estate loan concentrations that may warrant greater supervisory scrutiny: (i) commercial real estate loans exceeding 300 percent of capital and increasing 50 percent or more in the preceding three yearsyears; or (ii) construction and land development loans exceeding 100 percent of capital. The CRE Guidance does not limit banks’ levels of commercial real estate lending activities, but rather guides institutions in developing risk management practices and levels of capital that are commensurate with the level and nature of their commercial real estate concentrations. On December 18, 2015, the federal banking agencies issued a statement to reinforce prudent risk-management practices related to CRE lending, having observed substantial growth in many CRE asset and lending markets, increased competitive pressures, rising CRE concentrations in banks, and an easing of CRE underwriting standards. The federal bank agencies reminded FDIC-insured institutions to maintain underwriting discipline and exercise prudent risk-management practices to identify, measure, monitor and manage the risks arising from CRE lending. In addition, FDIC-insured institutions must maintain capital commensurate with the level and nature of their CRE concentration risk.

Based on West Bank’s loan portfolio as of December 31, 2015,2017, it exceeded the 300 percent guideline for commercial real estate loans. Additional monitoring processes have been implemented to manage this increased risk.

Consumer Financial Services. The historical structure of federal consumer protection regulation applicable to all providers of consumer financial products and services changed significantly on July 21, 2011, when the CFPB commenced operations to supervise and enforce consumer protection laws. The CFPB has broad rulemaking authority for a wide range of consumer protection laws that apply to all providers of consumer products and services, including West Bank, as well as the authority to prohibit “unfair, deceptive or abusive” acts and practices. The CFPB has examination and enforcement authority over providers with more than $10 billion in assets. FDIC-insured institutions with $10 billion or less in assets, like West Bank, continue to be examined by their applicable bank regulators.

Because abuses in connection with residential mortgages were a significant factor contributing to the global financial crisis, many new rules issued by the CFPB and required by the Dodd-Frank Act address mortgage and mortgage-related products, their underwriting, origination, servicing and sales. The Dodd-Frank Act significantly expanded underwriting requirements applicable to loans secured by 1-4 family residential real property and augmented federal law combating predatory lending practices. In addition to numerous disclosure requirements, the Dodd-Frank Act imposed new standards for mortgage loan originations on all lenders, including all FDIC-insured institutions, in an effort to strongly encourage lenders to verify a borrower’s "ability to repay," while also establishing a presumption of compliance for certain “qualified mortgages.” In addition, the Dodd-Frank Act generally required lenders or securitizers to retain an economic interest in the credit risk relating to loans that the lender sells, and other asset-backed securities that the securitizer issues, if the loans have not complied with the ability-to-repay standards. We do not currently expect the CFPB’s rules to have a significant impact on our operations, except for higher compliance costs.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The principal executive offices of the Company are located at 1601 22nd Street, West Des Moines, Iowa 50266. The Company'sCompany’s telephone number is (515) 222-2300, and the internet address is www.westbankstrong.com. Copies of the Company'sCompany’s annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and any amendments thereto are available for viewing or downloading free of charge from the Investor Relations section of the Company'sCompany’s website as soon as reasonably practicable after the documents are filed with or furnished to the SEC. Copies of the Company'sCompany’s filings with the SEC are also available from the SEC'sSEC’s website (www.sec.gov) free of charge.


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ITEM 1A.  RISK FACTORS

West Bancorporation'sBancorporation’s business is conducted almost exclusively through West Bank.  West Bancorporation and West Bank are subject to many of the common risks that challenge publicly traded, regulated financial institutions.   An investment in West Bancorporation'sBancorporation’s common stock is also subject to the following specific risks. In addition to the risks and uncertainties described below, other risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deem to be immaterial also may materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Risks Related to West Bancorporation'sBancorporation’s Business

We must effectively manage the credit risks of our loan portfolio.

The largest component of West Bank'sBank’s income is interest received on loans. Our business depends on the creditworthiness of our customers. There are obvious risks inherent in making loans.loans, including risks of nonpayment, risks resulting from uncertainties of the future value of collateral and risks resulting from changes in economic and industry conditions. We attempt to reduce our credit risk through prudent loan application, underwriting and approval procedures, including internal loan reviews before and after proceeds have been disbursed, careful monitoring of the concentration of our loans within specific industries, and collateral and guarantee requirements. These procedures cannot, however, be expected to completely eliminate our credit risks, and we can make no guarantees concerning the strength of our loan portfolio.



Our loan portfolio primarily includes commercial loans, which involve risks specific to commercial borrowers.

West Bank’s loan portfolio includes a significant amount of commercial real estate loans, construction and land development loans, commercial lines of credit and commercial term loans. West Bank'sBank’s typical commercial borrower is a small- or medium-sized, privately owned Iowa or Minnesota business entity. Our commercial loans typically have greater credit risks than standard residential mortgage or consumer loans because commercialCommercial loans often have largerlarge balances, and repayment usually depends on the borrowers'borrowers’ successful business operations. Commercial loans also involve some additional risk because theyare generally are not fully repaid over the loan period and thus may require refinancing or a large payoff at maturity. If the general economy turns substantially downward, commercial borrowers may not be able to repay their loans, and the value of their assets, which are usually pledged as collateral, may decrease rapidly and significantly. Also, when credit markets tighten due to adverse developments in specific markets or the general economy, opportunities for refinancing may become more expensive or unavailable, resulting in loan defaults.

Our loan portfolio includes commercial real estate loans, which involve risks specific to real estate value.

Commercial real estate loans were a significant portion of our total loan portfolio as of December 31, 2015.2017. The market value of real estate can fluctuate significantly in a short period of time as a result of market conditions in the geographic area in which the real estate is located. Adverse developments affecting real estate values in one or more of our markets could increase the credit risk associated with our loan portfolio. Additionally, commercial real estate lending typically involves higher loan principal amounts, and repayment of the loans is generally dependent, in large part, on sufficient income from the properties securing the loans to cover operating expenses and debt service. Economic events or governmental regulations outside of the control of the borrower or lender could negatively impact the future cash flowflows and market values of the affected properties.

If the loans that are collateralized by real estate become 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 interest that we anticipated at the time of originating the loan,loans, which could cause us to increase ourcharge off all or a portion of the loans. This could lead to an increased provision for loan losses and adversely affect our operating results and financial condition.

The level of our commercial real estate loan portfolio may subject us to additional regulatory scrutiny.

The federal banking regulators have promulgated joint guidance on sound risk management practices for financial institutions with concentrations in commercial real estate lending. Under this guidance, a financial institution that, like West Bank, is actively involved in commercial real estate lending should perform a risk assessment to identify concentrations. A financial institution may have a concentration in commercial real estate lending if, among other factors (i) total reported loans for construction, land development, and other land represent 100 percent or more of total capital, or (ii) total reported loans secured by multifamily and non-farm residential properties, loans for construction, land development and other land, and loans otherwise sensitive to the general commercial real estate market, including loans to commercial real estate related entities, represent 300 percent or more of total capital. Based on these criteria, West Bank had concentrations of 87 percent and 377 percent, respectively, as of December 31, 2017. The purpose of the guidance is to assist banks in developing risk management practices and capital levels commensurate with the level and nature of commercial real estate concentrations. The guidance states that management should employ heightened risk management practices, including board and management oversight, strategic planning, development of underwriting standards, and risk assessment and monitoring through market analysis and stress testing. West Bank believes that its current risk management processes adequately address the regulatory guidance; however, there can be no guarantee of the effectiveness of the risk management processes on an ongoing basis.

We are subject to environmental liability risk associated with real estate collateral securing our loans.

A significant portion of our loan portfolio is secured by real property. Under certain circumstances, we may take title to the real property collateral through foreclosure or other means. As the titleholder of the property, we may be responsible for environmental risks, such as hazardous materials, which attach to the property. For these reasons, prior to extending credit, we have an environmental risk assessment program to identify any known environmental risks associated with the real property that will secure our loans. In addition, we routinely inspect properties following the taking of title. When environmental risks are found, environmental laws and regulations may prescribe our approach to remediation. As a result, while we have ownership of a property, we may incur substantial expense and bear potential liability for any damages caused. The environmental risks may also materially reduce the property'sproperty’s value or limit our ability to use or sell the property. We also cannot guarantee that our environmental risk assessment will detect all environmental issues relating to a property, which could subject us to additional liability.


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Our allowance for loan losses may be insufficient to absorb potential losses in our loan portfolio.

We maintain an allowance for loan losses at a level we believe adequate to absorb probable losses inherent in our existing loan portfolio. The level of the allowance reflects management’s continuing evaluation of industry concentrations; specific credit risks; credit loss experience; current loan portfolio quality; present economic, political and regulatory conditions; and unidentified losses inherent in the current loan portfolio.

Determination of the allowance is inherently subjective as it requires significant estimates and management’s judgment of credit risks and future trends, all of which may undergo material changes.  Deterioration in economic conditions affecting borrowers, new information regarding existing loans, identification of additional problem loans and other factors, both within and outside of our control, may require an increase in the allowance for loan losses. In addition, bank regulatory agencies periodically review our allowance and may require an increase in the provision for loan losses or the recognition of additional loan charge-offs, based on judgments different from those of management. Also, if charge-offs in future periods exceed the allowance for loan losses, we will need additional provisions to increase the allowance. Any increases in provisions will result in a decrease in net income and capital and may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

A new accounting standard could require us to increase our allowance for loan losses and may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

The FASB issued a new accounting standard that will be effective for the Company for the fiscal year beginning January 1, 2020. This standard, referred to as Current Expected Credit Loss (CECL), will require financial institutions to determine periodic estimates of lifetime expected credit losses on loans, and recognize the expected credit losses as allowances for loan losses. This will change the current method of providing for loan losses that are probable, and will likely require us to increase our allowance for loan losses and to greatly increase the types of data we will need to collect and analyze to determine the appropriate level of the allowance for loan losses. Any increase in our allowance for loan losses or expenses incurred to determine the appropriate level of the allowance for loan losses will result in a decrease in net income and capital and may have a material adverse impact on our financial condition and results of operations. Moreover, the CECL model may create more volatility in our level of allowance for loan losses and could result in the need for additional capital.

Our accounting policies and methods are the basis for how we report our financial condition and results of operations, and they may require management to make estimates about matters that are inherently uncertain.

Our accounting policies and methods are fundamental to how we record and report our financial condition and results of operations. Our management must exercise judgment in selecting and applying many of these accounting policies and methods in order to ensure they comply with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and reflect management’s judgment as to the most appropriate manner in which to record and report our financial condition and results of operations. In some cases, management must select the accounting policy or method to apply from two or more alternatives, any of which might be reasonable under the circumstances. The application of that chosen accounting policy or method might result in us reporting different amounts than would have been reported under a different alternative. If management’s estimates or assumptions are incorrect, the Company may experience a material loss.

From time to time, the FASB and the SEC change the financial accounting and reporting standards or the interpretation of those standards that govern the preparation of our financial statements.  These changes are beyond our control, can be difficult to predict and could have a materially adverse impact on our financial condition and results of operations.

If a significant portion of any future unrealized losses in our portfolio of investment securities were to become other than temporarily impaired with credit losses, we would recognize a material charge to our earnings, and our capital ratios would be adversely impacted.

As of December 31, 2015, the fair value of our securities portfolio was approximately $372.6 million. Factors beyond our control can significantly influence the fair value of securities in our portfolio and can cause potential adverse changes to the fair value of those securities. These factors include, but are not limited to, changes in interest rates, rating agency downgrades of the securities, defaults by the issuer or individual mortgagors with respect to the underlying securities, and instability in the credit markets. Any of the foregoing factors could cause an other than temporary impairment (OTTI) in future periods and result in realized losses.



We analyze our investment securities quarterly to determine whether, in the opinion of management, any of the securities have OTTI. To the extent that any portion of the unrealized losses in our portfolio of investment securities is determined to have OTTI and is credit-loss related, we will recognize a charge to our earnings in the quarter during which such determination is made, and our capital ratios will be adversely impacted. Generally, a fixed income security is determined to have OTTI when it appears unlikely that we will receive all of the principal and interest due in accordance with the original terms of the investment. In addition to credit losses, losses are recognized for a security with an unrealized loss if the Company has the intent to sell the security or if it is more likely than not that the Company will be required to sell the security before collection of the principal amount.

Our accounting policies and methods are the basis for how we report our financial condition and results of operations, and they may require management to make estimates about matters that are inherently uncertain.

Our accounting policies and methods are fundamental to how we record and report our financial condition and results of operations. Our management must exercise judgment in selecting and applying many of these accounting policies and methods in order to ensure they comply with U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and reflect management's judgment as to the most appropriate manner in which to record and report our financial condition and results of operations. In some cases, management must select the accounting policy or method to apply from two or more alternatives, any of which might be reasonable under the circumstances. The application of that chosen accounting policy or method might result in us reporting different amounts than would have been reported under a different alternative. If management's estimates or assumptions are incorrect, the Company may experience material loss.

We have identified two accounting policies as being "critical" to the presentation of our financial condition and results of operations because they require management to make particularly subjective and complex judgments about matters that are inherently uncertain and because of the likelihood that materially different amounts would be reported under different conditions or using different assumptions. These critical accounting policies relate to: (1) determining the fair value and possible OTTI of investment securities, and (2) the allowance for loan losses. Because of the inherent uncertainty of these estimates, no assurance can be given that application of alternative policies or methods might not result in the reporting of different amounts of the fair value of investment securities or the allowance for loan losses and, accordingly, net income.

From time to time, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) and the SEC change the financial accounting and reporting standards or the interpretation of those standards that govern the preparation of our external financial statements.  These changes are beyond our control, can be difficult to predict and could have a materially adverse impact on our financial condition and results of operations.


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The FASB is currently finalizing amendments to proposed Accounting Standards Update, Financial Instruments: Credit Losses, which establishes a new impairment framework also known as the "current expected credit loss model." In contrast to the incurred loss model currently used, the current expected credit loss model requires an allowance be recognized based on the expected credit losses (i.e. all contractual cash flows that the entity does not expect to collect from financial assets or commitments to extend credit). It requires the consideration of more forward-looking information than is permitted under current U.S. GAAP. In addition to relevant information about past events and current conditions, such as borrowers’ current creditworthiness, quantitative and qualitative factors specific to borrowers, and the economic environment in which the entity operates, the new model requires consideration of reasonable and supportable forecasts that affect the expected collectability of the financial assets’ remaining contractual cash flows, and evaluation of the forecasted direction of the economic cycle, as well as the time value of money. The effective date of the proposed amendments to the current guidance on accounting for credit losses is yet to be determined. The final guidance may require the Company to maintain a larger allowance for loan losses in the future than existing guidance currently requires. Any additional provisions to increase the allowance will result in a decrease in net income and capital and may have an adverse impact on our financial condition and results of operations. Moreover, the current expected credit loss model likely would create more volatility in our level of allowance for loan losses and result in higher capital requirements. The full effect of the implementation of this new model is unknown until the proposed guidance is finalized.

We are subject to liquidity risks.

West Bank maintains liquidity primarily through customer deposits and other short-term funding sources, including advances from the Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) and purchased federal funds. If economic influences change so that we do not have access to short-term credit, or our depositors withdraw a substantial amount of their funds for other uses, West Bank might experience liquidity issues. Our efforts to monitor and manage liquidity risk may not be successful or sufficient to deal with dramatic or unanticipated reductions in our liquidity. If this were to occur and additional debt is needed for liquidity purposes in the future, there can be no assurance that such debt would be available or, if available, would be on favorable terms. In such events, our cost of funds may increase, thereby reducing our net interest income, or we may need to sell a portion of our investment portfolio, which, depending upon market conditions, could result in the Company or West Bank realizing losses.

Although we believe West Bank'sBank’s current sources of funds are adequate for its liquidity needs, there can be no assurance in this regard for the future. Liquidity issues during the most recent financial crisis were severe for regional and community banks, as some of the larger financial institutions significantly curtailed their lending to regional and community banks. In addition, many of the larger correspondent lenders reduced or even eliminated federal funds lines for their correspondent customers. If this were to occur again, and additional debt is needed in the future, there can be no assurance that such debt would be available or, if available, would be on favorable terms.

The competition for banking and financial services in our market areas is high, which could adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.

We operate in highly competitive markets and face strong competition in originating loans, seeking deposits and offering our other services. We compete in making loans, attracting deposits, and recruiting and retaining talented people.employees. The Des Moines metropolitan market area, in particular, has attracted many new financial institutions within the last two decades. We also compete with nonbank financial service providers, many of which are not subject to the same regulatory restrictions that we are and may be able to compete more effectively as a result.

Customer loyalty can be influenced by a competitor'scompetitor’s new products, especially if those offerings are priced lower than our products. Some of our competitors may also be better able to attract customers because they provide products and services over a larger geographic area than we serve. This competitive climate can make it more difficult to establish and maintain relationships with new and existing customers, can lower the rate that we are able to charge on loans, and can affect our charges for other services. Our growth and profitability depend on our continued ability to compete effectively within our market, and our inability to do so could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

Technology and other changes are allowing customers to complete financial transactions using nonbanks that historically have involved banks at one or both ends of the transaction. For example, customers can now pay bills and transfer funds directly without going through a bank. The process of eliminating banks as intermediaries, known as disintermediation, could result in the loss of fee income as well as the loss of customer deposits.


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Loss of customer deposits due to increased competition could increase our funding costs.

We rely on bank deposits to be a low cost and stable source of funding. We compete with banks and other financial services companies for deposits. If our competitors raise the rates they pay on deposits, our funding costs may increase, either because we raise our rates to avoid losing deposits or because we lose deposits and must rely on more expensive sources of funding.  Higher funding costs could reduce our net interest margin and net interest income and could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

The occurrence of fraudulent activity, breaches or failures of our information security controls or cybersecurity-related incidents could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and growth prospects.

As a bank, we are susceptible to fraudulent activity, information security breaches and cybersecurity-related incidents that may be committed against us or our clients, which may result in financial losses or increased costs to us or our customers, disclosure or misuse of our information or our client information, misappropriation of assets, privacy breaches against our customers, litigation or damage to our reputation. Such fraudulent activity may take many forms, including check fraud, electronic fraud, wire fraud, phishing, social engineering and other dishonest acts. Information security breaches and cybersecurity-related incidents may include fraudulent or unauthorized access to systems used by us, our customers or third-party vendors, denial or degradation of service attacks, and malware or other cyber-attacks.


There continues to be a rise in electronic fraudulent activity, security breaches and cyber-attacks within the financial services industry, especially in the commercial banking sector due to cyber criminals targeting commercial bank accounts. Moreover, in recent periods, several large corporations, including financial institutions and retail companies, have suffered major data breaches, in some cases exposing not only confidential and proprietary corporate information, but also sensitive financial and other personal information of their customers and employees and subjecting them to potential fraudulent activity. Some of our customers may have been affected by these breaches, which could increase their risks of identity theft and other fraudulent activity that could involve their accounts with us.

Information pertaining to us and our customers is maintained, and transactions are executed, on networks and systems maintained by us and certain third-party partners, such as our online banking, mobile banking or accounting systems. The secure maintenance and transmission of confidential information, as well as execution of transactions over these systems, are essential to protect us and our customers against fraud and security breaches and to maintain the confidence of our customers. Breaches of information security also may occur through intentional or unintentional acts by those having access to our systems or the confidential information of our customers, including employees. In addition, increases in criminal activity levels and sophistication, advances in computer capabilities, new discoveries, vulnerabilities in third-party technologies (including browsers and operating systems) or other developments could result in a compromise or breach of the technology, processes and controls that we use to prevent fraudulent transactions and to protect data about us, our customers and underlying transactions, as well as the technology used by our customers to access our systems. Our third-party partners’ inability to continueanticipate, or failure to accurately process large volumesadequately mitigate, breaches of transactionssecurity could adversely impactresult in a number of negative events, including losses to us or our customers, loss of business or customers, damage to our reputation, the incurrence of additional expenses, disruption to our business, additional regulatory scrutiny or penalties, or our exposure to civil litigation and possible financial results.liability, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and growth prospects.

We depend on information technology and telecommunications systems of third parties, and any systems failures, interruptions or data breaches involving these systems could adversely affect our operations and financial condition.

Our business is highly dependent on the successful and uninterrupted functioning of our information technology and telecommunications systems, third-party servicers, accounting systems, mobile and online banking platforms and financial intermediaries. We outsource to third parties many of our major systems, such as data processing and mobile and online banking. The failure of these systems, or the termination of a third-party software license or service agreement on which any of these systems is based, could interrupt our operations. Because our information technology and telecommunications systems interface with and depend on third-party systems, we could experience service denials if demand for such services exceeds capacity or such third-party systems fail or experience interruptions. A system failure or service denial could result in a deterioration of our ability to process loans or gather deposits and provide customer service, compromise our ability to operate effectively, result in potential noncompliance with applicable laws or regulations, damage our reputation, result in a loss of customer business or subject us to additional regulatory scrutiny and possible financial liability, any of which could have a material adverse effect on business, financial condition, results of operations and growth prospects. In addition, failures of third parties to comply with applicable laws and regulations, or fraud or misconduct on the part of employees of any of these third parties, could disrupt our operations or adversely affect our reputation.

It may be difficult for us to replace some of our third-party vendors, particularly vendors providing our core banking and information services, in a timely manner if they are unwilling or unable to provide us with these services in the future for any reason, and even if we are able to replace them, it might be at higher cost or result in the loss of customers. Any such events could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and growth prospects.

Our operations rely heavily on the secure processing, storage and transmission of information and the monitoring of a large volumesnumber of transactions on a dailyminute-by-minute basis, and even a short interruption in our branchesservice could have significant consequences. We also interact with and through our third-party processorrely on retailers, for whom we process transactions, as well as financial counterparties and are exposed to numerousregulators. Each of these third parties may be targets of the same types of operational risk. Operational risk resulting from inadequate or failed internal processes, people,fraudulent activity, computer break-ins and systems includesother cybersecurity breaches described above, and the cybersecurity measures that they maintain to mitigate the risk of fraud by persons insidesuch activity may be different than our own and may be inadequate.

As a result of financial entities and technology systems becoming more interdependent and complex, a cyber incident, information breach or outside West Bank,loss, or technology failure that compromises the executionsystems or data of unauthorized transactions by employees, errors relating to transaction processing and systems, and breaches of the internal control system and compliance requirements. This risk of loss also includes the potential legal actions thatone or more financial entities could arise ashave a material impact on counterparties or other market participants, including ourselves. As a result of the operational deficiencyforegoing, our ability to conduct business may be adversely affected by any significant disruptions to us or as a result of noncomplianceto third parties with applicable regulatory standards.whom we interact.

We establish and maintain systems of internal operational controls that are designed to provide us with timely and accurate information about our level of operational risk. These systems have been designed to manage operational risk at appropriate, cost-effective levels. Procedures also exist that are designed to ensure that policies relating to conduct, ethics and business practices are followed. From time to time, losses from operational risk may occur because of operational errors.

While we continually monitor and improve the system of internal controls, data processing systems, and corporate-wide processes and procedures, there can be no assurance that future losses will not occur.

Cybersecurity events could negatively affect our reputation, subject us to financial loss or result in litigation.

West Bank has access to large amounts of confidential financial information and controls substantial financial assets belonging to its customers. West Bank offers its customers continuous remote access to their accounts in several different ways and otherwise regularly transfers substantial financial assets by electronic means. Accordingly, cybersecurity is a material risk for West Bank.

West Bank depends on third-party data processing and the communication and exchange of information on a variety of platforms, networks, and over the internet. West Bank cannot be certain that all of its systems are entirely free from vulnerability to attack, despite safeguards that it has installed. West Bank does business with a number of third-party service providers and vendors with respect to West Bank's business, data and communications needs. If information security is breached, or if one of West Bank's employees or vendors breaches compliance procedures, information could be lost or misappropriated in manners resulting in financial loss to West Bank, damages to others or potential litigation. Cyber incidents such as computer break-ins, phishing, identity theft and other disruptions could jeopardize the security of information stored in and transmitted through our computer systems and network infrastructure, which may result in significant liability to us in excess of any applicable insurance coverage, and may cause existing and potential customers to refrain from doing business with us. Although we, with the help of third-party service providers, will continue to implement security technology and establish operational procedures to prevent, detect, react, and recover from these potential cyber incidents, there can be no assurance that these security measures will be successful.

Failure to maintain effective internal controls over financial reporting could impair our ability to accurately and timely report our financial results and could increase the risk of fraud.

Effective internal controls over financial reporting are necessary to provide reliable financial reports and prevent fraud. Management believes that our internal controls over financial reporting are currently effective. While management will continue to assess our controls and procedures and take immediate action to remediate any future perceived issues, there can be no guarantee of the effectiveness of these controls and procedures on an ongoing basis. Any failure to maintain an effective internal control environment could impact our ability to report our financial results on an accurate and timely basis, which could result in regulatory actions, loss of investor confidence, and an adverse impact on our business operations and stock price.




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West Bank and West Bancorporation’s operations rely on third-party service providers and vendors.

The Company utilizes a number of third-party service providers and vendors to provide products and services necessary to maintain our day-to-day operations. The Company is exposed to the risk that such vendors fail to perform under these arrangements. This could result in disruption of the Company’s business and have a material adverse impact on our results of operations and financial condition. There can be no assurance that the Company’s policies and procedures designed to monitor and mitigate vendor risks will be effective in preventing or limiting the effect of vendor nonperformance.

Employee, customer or third-party fraud could cause substantial losses.

West Bank's business involves financial assets. Financial assets are always potential targets for fraudulent activities. Employee, customer or third-party fraud could subject us to operational losses or regulatory sanctions, and could seriously harm our reputation. Misconduct by our employees, customers or third-parties could include unauthorized activities, improper or unauthorized activities on behalf of a customer, deceit or misappropriation. We maintain a system of internal controls and insurance coverage to mitigate operational risks; however, it is not always possible to prevent such misconduct. Should our internal controls fail to prevent or detect an occurrence, or if any resulting loss is not insured or exceeds our insurance limits, fraud could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations or financial condition. Fraud does not even have to be aimed at West Bank to cause a loss. Losses are possible even where a customer is the victim of fraud or misappropriation if collateral held by West Bank is involved.

Disruption of infrastructure could adversely impact our operations.

Our operations depend upon our technological and physical infrastructures, particularly those located at our home office. Extended disruption of our vital infrastructures due to fire, power loss, natural disaster, telecommunications failure, cybersecurity events or other events could detrimentally affect our financial performance. We have developed disaster recovery plans to mitigate this risk but can make no assurances that these plans will be effective.

Damage to our reputation could adversely affect our business.

Our business depends upon earning and maintaining the trust and confidence of our customers, stockholders and employees. Damage to our reputation could cause significant harm to our business. Harm to our reputation can arise from numerous sources, including employee misconduct, vendor nonperformance, cybersecurity breaches, compliance failures, litigation or governmental investigations, among other things. In addition, a failure to deliver appropriate standards of service, or a failure or perceived failure to treat customers and clients fairly, can result in customer dissatisfaction, litigation, and heightened regulatory scrutiny, all of which can lead to lost revenue, higher operating costs and harm to our reputation. Adverse publicity about West Bank, whether or not true, may also result in harm to our business. Should any events or circumstances that could undermine our reputation occur, there can be no assurance that any lost revenue from customers lostopting to move their business to another institution and the additional costs and expenses that we may incur in addressing such issues would not adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.

We are subject to various legal claims and litigation.

We are periodically involved in routine litigation incidental to our business, including the litigation disclosed in Item 3 of this Form 10-K.business. Regardless of whether these claims and legal actions are founded or unfounded, if such legal actions are not resolved in a manner favorable to us, they may result in significant financial liability and/or adversely affect the Company’s reputation. In addition, litigation can be costly. Any financial liability, litigation costs or reputational damage caused by these legal claims could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

The soundness of other financial institutions could adversely affect us.

Financial services institutions are interrelated as a result of trading, clearing, counterparty or other relationships. We have exposure to many different industries and counterparties, and we routinely execute transactions with counterparties in the financial services industry, including brokers and dealers, commercial banks, investment banks and other institutional clients. Many of these transactions expose us to credit risk in the event of default by our counterparty or client. In addition, our credit risk may be exacerbated when the collateral held by us cannot be realized or is liquidated at prices not sufficient to recover the full amount of the loan or derivative exposure due us. There is no assurance that any such losses would not materially and adversely affect our results of operations or earnings.


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We may experience difficulties in managing our growth.

In 2013, we opened an office in Rochester, Minnesota. In the future, we may decide to expand into additional communities or attempt to strengthen our position in our current markets through opportunistic acquisitions of all or part of other financial institutions or related businesses that we believe provide a strategic fit with our business, or by opening new branches or loan production offices. To the extent that we undertake acquisitions or new office openings, we are likely to experience the effects of higher operating expense relative to operating income from the new operations, which may have an adverse effect on our overall levels of reported net income, return on average equity and return on average assets. Other effects of engaging in such growth strategies may include potential diversion of our management'smanagement’s time and attention and general disruption to our business.

To the extent that we grow through acquisitions or office openings, we cannot provide assurance that we will be able to adequately or profitably manage such growth. Acquiring other banks and businesses will involve risks similar to those commonly associated with new office openings, but may also involve additional risks. These additional risks include potential exposure to unknown or contingent liabilities of banks and businesses we acquire, exposure to potential asset quality issues of the acquired bank or related business, difficulty and expense of integrating the operations and personnel of banks and businesses we acquire, and the possible loss of key employees and customers of the banks and businesses we acquire.



Maintaining or increasing our market share may depend on lowering prices and the adoption of new products and services.

Our success depends, in part, on our ability to adapt our products and services to evolving industry standards. There ismay be increased pressure to provide products and services at lower prices. Lower prices can reduce our net interest margin and revenues from our fee-based products and services. In addition, the widespread adoption of new technologies could require us to make substantial expenditures to modify or adapt our existing products and services. Also, these and other capital investments in our business may not produce expected growth in earnings anticipated at the time of the expenditure. We may not be successful in introducing new products and services, achieving market acceptance of our products and services, or developing and maintaining loyal customers.

The FDIC periodically amends its deposit insurance rate assessment structure, which can increase costs to the Company.

Under the Federal Deposit Insurance Act, as amended by the Dodd-Frank Act, the FDIC must establish and implement a plan to restore the Deposit Insurance Fund’s (DIF) designated reserve ratio to 1.35 percent of insured deposits by September 30, 2020. The FDIC must continue to assess and consider the appropriate level of the reserve ratio annually by considering each of the following: risk of loss to the insurance fund; economic conditions affecting the banking industry; the prevention of sharp swings in the assessment rates; and any other factors the FDIC deems important. The FDIC’s current fund management strategy includes a targeted long-term reserve ratio of 2.00 percent. The Dodd-Frank Act required changes to a number of components of the FDIC insurance assessment. While these changes have resulted in a lower amount of deposit insurance assessments for West Bank, in January 2016, the FDIC refined the assessment system for depository institutions with total assets of less than $10 billion. The refinements, which go into effect once the DIF reaches 1.15 percent, add more financial ratios to the calculation of our assessment rate. These upcoming changes in assessment rates or methodology could adversely impact West Bank’s net income and financial position in the future.

The loss of the services of any of our senior executive officers or key personnel could cause our business to suffer.

Much of our success is due to our ability to attract and retain senior management and key personnel experienced in bankbanking and financial services who are very involved in the communities we currently serve. Our continued success depends to a significant extent upon the continued services of relatively few individuals. In addition, our success depends in significant part upon our senior management'smanagement’s ability to develop and implement our business strategies. The loss of services of a few of our senior executive officers or key personnel, or the inability to recruit and retain qualified personnel in the future, could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations, at least in the short term.



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Risks Related to the Banking Industry in General and Community Banking in Particular

We may be materially and adversely affected by the highly regulated environment in which we operate.

We are subject to extensive federal and state regulation, supervision and examination. A more detailed description of the primary federal and state banking laws and regulations that affect us is contained in Item 1 of this Form 10-K in the section captioned “Supervision and Regulation.” Banking regulations are primarily intended to protect depositors’ funds, FDIC funds, customers and the banking system as a whole, rather than our stockholders.  These regulations affect our lending practices, capital structure, investment practices, dividend policy and growth, among other things.

As a bankfinancial holding company, we are subject to extensive regulation and supervision and undergo periodic examinations by our regulators, who have extensive discretion and authority to prevent or remedy unsafe or unsound practices or violations of law by banks and bankfinancial holding companies.  Failure to comply with applicable laws, regulations or policies could result in sanctions by regulatory agencies, civil monetary penalties and/or damage to our reputation, which could have a material adverse effect on us.  Although we have policies and procedures designed to mitigate the risk of any such violations, there can be no assurance that such violations will not occur.

Current or proposed regulatory or legislative changes to laws applicable to the financial industry may impact the profitability of our business activities and may change certain of our business practices, including our ability to offer new products, obtain financing, attract deposits, make loans and achieve satisfactory interest spreads, and could expose us to additional costs, including increased compliance costs. These changes also may require us to invest significant management attention and resources to make any necessary changes to operations in order to comply and could therefore also materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

While it is anticipated that the current presidential administration will not increase the regulatory burdens on community banks and may reduce some of the burdens associated with the implementation of the Dodd-Frank Act, the actual impact of regulatory actions of the current administration is impossible to predict with any certainty at this time.

Our business is subject to domestic and, to a lesser extent, international economic conditions and other factors, many of which are beyond our control and could materially and adversely affect us.

Our financial performance generally, and in particular the ability of customers to pay interest on and repay principal on outstanding loans and the value of collateral securing those loans, as well as demand for loans and other products and services we offer, is highly dependent upon the business environment, not only in the markets where we operate, but also in the states of Iowa and Minnesota, generally, in the United States as a whole, and internationally. A favorable business environment is generally characterized by, among other factors, economic growth, efficient capital markets, low inflation, low unemployment, high business and investor confidence, and strong business earnings. Unfavorable or uncertain economic and market conditions can be caused by declines in economic growth, business activity, or investor or business confidence; limitations on the availability or increases in the cost of credit and capital; increases in inflation or interest rates; high unemployment; natural disasters; or a combination of these or other factors.



While economic conditions in our markets, the states of Iowa and Minnesota and the United States have generally improved since the recession, there can be no assurance that this improvement will continue or occur at a meaningful rate. A return of recessionary conditions and/or continued negative developments in the domestic and international credit markets may significantly affect the markets in which we do business, the value of our loans and investments, and our ongoing operations, costs and profitability. Such conditions could materially and adversely affect us.

Monetary policies and regulations of the Federal Reserve 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. An important function of the Federal Reserve is to regulate the money supply and credit conditions. Among the instruments used byoptions available to the Federal Reserve to implement these objectives are open market operations in U.S. government securities, adjustments of the discount rate, and changes in reserve requirements against bank deposits. These instrumentsmonetary policy options are used in varying combinations to influence overall economic growth and the distribution of credit, bank loans, investments and deposits. Their use also affects interest rates charged on loans or paid on deposits.

The monetary policies and regulations of the Federal Reserve have had a significant effect on the operating results of commercial banks in the past and are expected to continue to do so in the future. The specific effects of such policies upon our business, financial condition and results of operations cannot be predicted.



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Changes in interest rates could negatively impact our financial condition and results of operations.

Earnings in the banking industry, particularly the community bank segment, are substantially dependent on net interest income, which is the difference between interest earned on interest-earning assets (investments and loans) and interest paid on interest-bearing liabilities (deposits and borrowings). Interest rates are sensitive to many factors, including government monetary and fiscal policies and domestic and international economic and political conditions. During the last fewseveral years, interest rates have been at historically low levels. At the end of 2015, theThe Federal Reserve raised the target federal funds rate range from 0 percent to 0.25 percent to a rangeby 25 basis points in each of 0.25 percent to 0.50 percent.December 2016, March 2017, June 2017 and December 2017. If interest rates continue to increase, banks will experience competitive pressures to increase rates paid on deposits. Depending on competitive pressures, such deposit rate increases may increaseoccur faster than increases in rates received on loans, which may reduce net interest income during the transition periods. Changes in interest rates could also influence our ability to originate loans and obtain deposits, the fair value of our financial assets and liabilities, and the average duration of our securities portfolio. Community banks, such as West Bank, rely more heavily than larger institutions on net interest income as a revenue source. Larger institutions generally have more diversified sources of noninterest income. See Item 7A of this Form 10-K for a discussion of the Company'sCompany’s interest rate risk management.

We may be adversely affected by changes in U.S. tax laws and regulations.

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act was signed into law in December 2017, reforming the U.S. tax code. The legislation includes lowering the federal corporate income tax rate to 21 percent beginning in 2018 from a maximum rate of 35 percent, modifying the U.S. taxation of income earned outside the U.S. and limiting or eliminating various deductions, tax credits and/or other tax preferences. The legislation could negatively impact our customers because it lowers the existing caps on mortgage interest deductions and limits the state and local tax deductions. These changes could make it more difficult for borrowers to make their loan payments and could also negatively impact the housing market, which could adversely affect our business and loan growth.

Technology is changing rapidly.rapidly and may put us at a competitive disadvantage.

The banking industry is undergoing rapid technological changes with frequent introductions of new technology-driven products and services. Effective use of technology increases efficiency and enables banks to better serve customers. Our future success depends, in part, on our ability to effectively implement new technology. Many of our larger competitors have substantially greater resources than we do to invest in technological improvements. As a result, they may be able to offer, or more quickly offer, additional or superior products that could put West Bank at a competitive disadvantage.



Risks Related to West Bancorporation'sBancorporation’s Common Stock

Our stock is relatively thinly traded.

Although our common stock is traded on the Nasdaq Global Select Market, the average daily trading volume of our common stock is relatively small compared to many public companies. The desired market characteristics of depth, liquidity, and orderliness require the substantial presence of willing buyers and sellers in the marketplace at any given time. In our case, this presence depends on the individual decisions of a relatively small number of investors and general economic and market conditions over which we have no control. Due to the relatively small trading volume of our common stock, significant sales of our common stock, or the expectation of these sales, could cause the stock price to fall more than would be justified by the inherent worth of the Company. Conversely, attempts to purchase a significant amount of our stock could cause the market price to rise above the reasonable inherent worth of the Company.

The stock market can be volatile, and fluctuations in our operating results and other factors could cause our stock price to decline.

The stock market has experienced, and may continue to experience, fluctuations that significantly impact the market prices of securities issued by many companies. Market fluctuations could adversely affect our stock price. These fluctuations have often been unrelated or disproportionate to the operating performance of particular companies. These broad market fluctuations, as well as general economic, systemic, political and market conditions, such as recessions, loss of investor confidence, interest rate changes, or international currency fluctuations, may negatively affect the market price of our common stock. Moreover, our operating results may fluctuate and vary from period to period due to the risk factors set forth herein. As a result, period-to-period comparisons should not be relied upon as an indication of future performance. Our stock price could fluctuate significantly in response to the impact these risk factors have on our operating results or financial position.

Issuing additional common or preferred stock may adversely affect the market price of our common stock, and capital may not be available when needed.

The Company may issue additional shares of common or preferred sharesstock in order to raise capital at some date in the future to support continued growth, either internally generated or through an acquisition. Common shares have been and will be issued through the Company'sCompany’s 2012 Equity Incentive Plan and the Company’s 2017 Equity Incentive Plan as grants of restricted stock units vest. As additional shares of common or preferred stock are issued, the ownership interests of our existing stockholders may be diluted. The market price of our common stock might decline or fail to advanceincrease in response to issuing additional common or preferred shares.stock. Our ability to raise additional capital, if needed, will depend on conditions in the capital markets at that time, which are outside of our control. Accordingly, we cannot provide any assurance that we will be able to raise additional capital, if needed, at acceptable terms.

The holders of our junior subordinated debentures have rights that are senior to those of our common stockholders.

As of December 31, 2015,2017, the Company had $20.6 million in junior subordinated debentures outstanding that were issued to the Company'sCompany’s subsidiary trust, West Bancorporation Capital Trust I. The junior subordinated debentures are senior to the Company'sCompany’s shares of common stock. As a result, the Company must make payments on the junior subordinated debentures (and the related trust preferred securities (TPS)) before any dividends can be paid on its common stock, and, in the event of the Company'sCompany’s bankruptcy, dissolution or liquidation, the holders of the debentures must be satisfied before any distributions can be made to the holders of the common stock. The Company has the right to defer distributions on the junior subordinated debentures (and the related TPS) for up to five years during which time no dividends may be paid to holders of the Company'sCompany’s common stock. The Company'sCompany’s ability to pay future distributions depends upon the earnings of West Bank and the issuance of dividends from West Bank to the Company, which may be inadequate to service the obligations. Interest payments on the junior subordinated debentures underlying the TPS

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are classified as a “dividend” by the Federal Reserve supervisory policies and therefore are subject to applicable restrictions and approvals imposed by the Federal Reserve Board.

There can be no assurances concerning continuing dividend payments.

Our common stockholders are only entitled to receive the dividends declared by our Board of Directors. Although we have historically paid quarterly dividends on our common stock, there can be no assurances that we will be able to continue to pay regular quarterly dividends or that any dividends we do declare will be in any particular amount. The primary source of money to pay our dividends comes from dividends paid to the Company by West Bank. West Bank'sBank’s ability to pay dividends to the Company is subject to, among other things, its earnings, financial condition and applicable regulations, which in some instances limit the amount that may be paid as dividends.



We are required to maintain capital to meet regulatory requirements, and if we fail to maintain sufficient capital, whether due to an inability to raise capital, operational losses, or otherwise, our financial condition, liquidity and results of operations, as well as our ability to maintain regulatory compliance, could be adversely affected.

The Company and West Bank are required by federal and state regulatory authorities to maintain adequate levels of capital to support their operations, which increased on January 1, 2015, with the implementation of the Basel III Rule.operations. The ability to raise additional capital, when and if needed, will depend on conditions in the capital markets, economic conditions, and a number of other factors, including investor perceptions regarding the banking industry and market conditions, and governmental activities, many of which are outside of our control, as well as on our financial condition and performance. Accordingly, we cannot provide assurance that we will be able to raise additional capital, if needed, or on terms acceptable to us. Failure to meet these capital and other regulatory requirements could affect customer confidence, our ability to grow, the costs of funds, FDIC insurance costs, the ability to pay dividends on common stock and to make distributions on the junior subordinated debentures, the ability to make acquisitions, the ability to make certain discretionary bonus payments to executive officers, and the results of operations and financial condition.

ITEM 1B.  UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

There are no unresolved comments from the SEC staff.

ITEM 2.  PROPERTIES

The corporate office of the Company is located in the main office building of West Bank, at 1601 22nd Street in West Des Moines, Iowa.  The headquarters location is leased.  West Bank rents approximately 20,200 square feet in the building and pays annual rent of approximately $469,000 forleases its main office, including a full-service bank location that includes drive-up facilities, one automated teller machine and one automatedintegrated teller machine.  In addition to its main office, and headquarters, as of December 31, 2015, West Bank also leasedleases bank buildings and space for eight othersix branch offices (sevenlocated in the Des Moines, Iowa, metrometropolitan area and one in Rochester, Minnesota) andoffice space for operational departments.  TheThree branch offices are full-service locations with drive-up facilities and an automated teller machine, except for the office in Rochester, Minnesota, which does not havemachine.  The other three branch offices are drive-up only, express locations and offer drive-up services and an automated teller machine or drive-up facility.  Annual lease payments for these eight offices and the space for operating departments total approximately $1.3 million.  The Companymachine. West Bank also owns onefour full-service banking locationlocations in Iowa City, Coralville and Waukee, Iowa, and one full-service banking location in Coralville, Iowa. In October 2015, the Company broke ground on a full-service facility in Rochester, Minnesota. The new facility is expected to open in the third quarter of 2016 and will replace the current leased space. Also, in February 2016, the Company purchased one of its leased branch facilities in the Des Moines, Iowa, metro area. We believe each of our facilities is adequate to meet our needs.

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ITEM 3.  LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

On September 29, 2010, West Bank was sued in a class action lawsuit filed in the Iowa District Court for Polk County. Plaintiffs, Darla and Jason T. Legg, asserted nonsufficient funds fees charged by West Bank on debit card transactions were usurious under the Iowa Consumer Credit Code and that the sequence West Bank formerly used to post debit card transactions for payment violated various alleged duties of good faith and ordinary care. Plaintiffs sought alternative remedies including injunctive relief, damages (including treble damages), punitive damages, refund of bank fees, and attorney fees. The trial court entered orders on preliminary motions on March 4, 2014. It dismissed one of Plaintiffs’ claims and found that factual disputes precluded summary judgment in West Bank’s favor on the remaining claims. In addition, the court certified two classes for further proceedings. West Bank appealed the adverse rulings to the Iowa Supreme Court. On January 22, 2016, the Iowa Supreme Court filed two opinions that affirmed and reversed parts of the trial court rulings. The court reversed the trial court by holding the Iowa Consumer Credit Code usury claim and an unjust enrichment claim should be dismissed. Certification of classes on those claims was also reversed. The court affirmed the trial court by holding that the Plaintiffs can proceed with a breach of express contract claim based on a 2006 change in debit card payment sequencing coupled with the alleged lack of notice concerning that change. West Bank believes it has additional defenses to this claim and intends to continue vigorously defending the action after it is remanded to the district court. The amount of potential loss, if any, cannot now be reasonably estimated due to significant additional unresolved factual and legal issues that must be determined through further proceedings.
Except as described above, neitherNeither the Company nor West Bank are partiesis party to any material pending legal proceedings, other than ordinary litigation incidental to West Bank'sBank’s business, and no property of these entities is the subject of any such proceeding.  The Company does not know of any proceedingproceedings contemplated by a governmental authority against the Company or West Bank.

ITEM 4.  MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

Not applicable.


25




PART II

ITEM 5.  MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'SREGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS, AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

West Bancorporation common stock is traded on the Nasdaq Global Select Market under the symbol “WTBA.”   The table below shows the high and low sale prices and cash dividends on common stock declared for each quarter, and the closing price at the end of each quarter, in 20152017 and 20142016.  The market quotations, reported by Nasdaq, do not include retail markup, markdown or commissions.
Market and Dividend Information       
 High Low Close Dividends
2015       
4th quarter$21.09
 $17.74
 $19.75
 $0.16
3rd quarter20.99
 17.67
 18.75
 0.16
2nd quarter20.46
 17.98
 19.84
 0.16
1st quarter19.94
 16.00
 19.89
 0.14
        
2014       
4th quarter$17.05
 $14.00
 $17.02
 $0.14
3rd quarter15.68
 14.01
 14.13
 0.12
2nd quarter16.45
 13.53
 15.23
 0.12
1st quarter15.98
 13.64
 15.19
 0.11
Market and Dividend Information       
 High Low Close Dividends
2017       
4th Quarter$28.00
 $23.40
 $25.15
 $0.18
3rd Quarter24.75
 20.90
 24.40
 0.18
2nd Quarter24.60
 21.40
 23.65
 0.18
1st Quarter24.90
 20.60
 22.95
 0.17
        
2016       
4th Quarter$25.05
 $18.75
 $24.70
 $0.17
3rd Quarter20.52
 17.65
 19.60
 0.17
2nd Quarter19.65
 17.33
 18.59
 0.17
1st Quarter19.58
 16.04
 18.23
 0.16
There were 198188 holders of record of the Company'sCompany’s common stock as of February 19, 2016,16, 2018, and an estimated 2,600 additional beneficial holders whose stock was held in street name by brokerages or fiduciaries.  The closing price of the Company'sCompany’s common stock was $17.63$24.85 on February 19, 2016.16, 2018.

In the aggregate, cash dividends paid to common stockholders in 20152017 and 20142016 were $0.620.71 and $0.490.67 per common share, respectively.  Dividend declarations are evaluated and determined by the Board of Directors on a quarterly basis, and the dividends are paid quarterly.  The ability of the Company to pay dividends in the future will depend primarily upon the earnings of West Bank and its ability to pay dividends to the Company.

The ability of West Bank to pay dividends is governed by various statutes. These statutes provide that noa bank shall declare ormay pay any dividends in an amount greater than its retained earnings without approval from governing regulatory bodies.only out of undivided profits. In addition, applicable bank regulatory authorities have the power to require any bank to suspend the payment of dividends until the bank complies with all requirements that may be imposed by such authorities.

On April 22, 2015, the Board of Directors renewed the Company'sThe Company does not currently have a stock repurchase plan which otherwise would have expired on that date. Management was authorized by the Board of Directors to purchase up to $2 million of the Company's common stock over the next twelve months. The authorization does not require such purchases and is subject to certain restrictions. Shares of Company common stock may be repurchased on the open market or in privately negotiated transactions. The extent to which the shares are repurchased and the timing of such repurchases will depend on market conditions and other corporate considerations.place. No shares have beenwere repurchased under this authorization as of February 19, 2016.


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Table of Contentsduring 2017.



The following performance graph provides information regarding the cumulative, five-year return on an indexed basis of the common stock of the Company as compared with the Nasdaq Composite Index and the SNL Midwest Bank Index prepared by SNL Financial LC of Charlottesville, Virginia.S&P Global Market Intelligence. The latter index reflects the performance of bank holding companies operating principally in the Midwest as selected by SNL Financial.S&P Global Market Intelligence. The indices assume the investment of $100 on December 31, 2010,2012, in the common stock of the Company, the Nasdaq Composite Index and the SNL Midwest Bank Index, with all dividends reinvested. The Company'sCompany’s common stock price performance shown in the following graph is not indicative of future stock price performance.
WEST BANCORPORATION, INC.
Period EndingPeriod Ending
Index12/31/201012/31/201112/31/201212/31/201312/31/201412/31/201512/31/201212/31/201312/31/201412/31/201512/31/201612/31/2017
West Bancorporation, Inc.100.00
125.38
146.20
222.03
246.90
295.91
100.00
151.87
168.88
202.40
262.54
275.60
Nasdaq Composite100.00
99.21
116.82
163.75
188.03
201.40
100.00
140.12
160.78
171.97
187.22
242.71
SNL Midwest Bank100.00
94.46
113.69
155.65
169.21
171.78
100.00
136.91
148.84
151.10
201.89
216.95
*Source: SNL Financial LC, Charlottesville, VA.S&P Global Market Intelligence.  Used with permission.  All rights reserved.

27




ITEM 6.  SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary                    
Selected Financial Data                    
 Years Ended December 31 As of and for the Years Ended December 31
(in thousands, except per share amounts) 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2017
2016
2015
2014
2013
Operating Results                    
Interest income $60,147
 $55,301
 $52,741
 $50,662
 $53,319
 $73,034
 $64,994
 $60,147
 $55,301
 $52,741
Interest expense 5,993
 6,156
 7,058
 9,464
 11,917
 12,977
 7,876
 5,993
 6,156
 7,058
Net interest income 54,154
 49,145
 45,683
 41,198
 41,402
 60,057
 57,118
 54,154
 49,145
 45,683
Provision for loan losses 850
 750
 (850) 625
 550
 
 1,000
 850
 750
 (850)
Net interest income after provision for loan losses 53,304
 48,395
 46,533
 40,573
 40,852
 60,057
 56,118
 53,304
 48,395
 46,533
Noninterest income 8,203
 10,296
 8,494
 10,869
 9,349
 8,648
 7,982
 8,203
 10,296
 8,494
Noninterest expense 30,068
 32,002
 30,816
 28,667
 28,861
 32,267
 31,148
 30,068
 32,002
 30,816
Income before income taxes 31,439
 26,689
 24,211
 22,775
 21,340
 36,438
 32,952
 31,439
 26,689
 24,211
Income taxes 9,697
 6,649
 7,320
 6,764
 6,072
 13,368
 9,936
 9,697
 6,649
 7,320
Net income 21,742
 20,040
 16,891
 16,011
 15,268
 $23,070
 $23,016
 $21,742
 $20,040
 $16,891
Preferred stock dividends and accretion of discount 
 
 
 
 (2,387)
Net income available to common stockholders $21,742
 $20,040
 $16,891
 $16,011
 $12,881
                    
Dividends and Per Share Data                    
Cash dividends $9,952
 $7,842
 $6,995
 $6,265
 $2,959
 $11,499
 $10,800
 $9,952
 $7,842
 $6,995
Cash dividends per common share 0.62
 0.49
 0.42
 0.36
 0.17
 0.71
 0.67
 0.62
 0.49
 0.42
Basic earnings per common share 1.35
 1.25
 1.02
 0.92
 0.74
 1.42
 1.43
 1.35
 1.25
 1.02
Diluted earnings per common share 1.35
 1.25
 1.02
 0.92
 0.74
 1.41
 1.42
 1.35
 1.25
 1.02
Closing stock price 19.75
 17.02
 15.82
 10.78
 9.58
Book value 9.49
 8.75
 7.74
 7.73
 7.09
Closing stock price per common share 25.15
 24.70
 19.75
 17.02
 15.82
Book value per common share 10.98
 10.25
 9.49
 8.75
 7.74
Average common shares outstanding 16,050
 16,004
 16,582
 17,404
 17,404
 16,194
 16,117
 16,050
 16,004
 16,582
                    
Year End and Average Balances          
Year-End and Average Balances          
Total assets $1,748,640
 $1,615,833
 $1,442,404
 $1,448,175
 $1,269,524
 $2,114,377
 $1,854,204
 $1,748,396
 $1,615,566
 $1,442,111
Average assets 1,675,652
 1,512,506
 1,445,773
 1,326,408
 1,295,313
 1,954,242
 1,806,250
 1,675,652
 1,512,506
 1,445,773
Investment securities 384,420
 339,208
 357,067
 304,103
 294,497
 498,920
 319,794
 384,420
 339,208
 357,067
Loans 1,246,688
 1,184,045
 991,720
 927,401
 838,959
 1,510,500
 1,399,870
 1,246,688
 1,184,045
 991,720
Allowance for loan losses (14,967) (13,607) (13,791) (15,529) (16,778) (16,430) (16,112) (14,967) (13,607) (13,791)
Deposits 1,440,729
 1,270,462
 1,163,842
 1,134,576
 957,373
 1,810,813
 1,546,605
 1,440,729
 1,270,462
 1,163,842
Long-term borrowings 127,419
 130,183
 131,946
 114,509
 125,619
 119,711
 125,410
 127,175
 129,916
 131,653
Stockholders' equity 152,377
 140,175
 123,625
 134,587
 123,451
Average stockholders' equity 146,089
 131,924
 127,789
 129,795
 135,520
Stockholders’ equity 178,098
 165,376
 152,377
 140,175
 123,625
Average stockholders’ equity 173,568
 160,420
 146,089
 131,924
 127,789
                    
Performance Ratios                    
Equity to assets ratio 8.72% 8.72% 8.84% 9.79% 10.46%
Average equity to average assets ratio 8.88% 8.88% 8.72% 8.72% 8.84%
Return on average assets 1.30% 1.32% 1.17% 1.21% 1.18% 1.18% 1.27% 1.30% 1.32% 1.17%
Return on average equity 14.88% 15.19% 13.22% 12.34% 11.27% 13.29% 14.35% 14.88% 15.19% 13.22%
Efficiency ratio 46.30% 49.93% 52.55% 50.83% 49.27%
Texas ratio 0.87% 2.71% 7.69% 11.25% 16.33%
Net interest margin 3.59% 3.59% 3.48% 3.42% 3.58%
Efficiency ratio (1)(2)
 45.39% 46.03% 46.30% 49.93% 52.55%
Texas ratio (1)
 0.32% 0.56% 0.87% 2.71% 7.69%
Net interest margin (2)
 3.37% 3.49% 3.59% 3.59% 3.48%
Dividend payout ratio 45.77% 39.13% 41.41% 39.13% 22.97% 49.84% 46.92% 45.77% 39.13% 41.41%
Dividend yield 3.14% 2.88% 2.65% 3.34% 1.77% 2.82% 2.71% 3.14% 2.88% 2.65%
Definition of ratios:
EquityAverage equity to average assets ratio - average equity divided by average assets.
Return on average assets - net income divided by average assets.
Return on average equity - net income divided by average equity.
Efficiency ratio - noninterest expense (excluding other real estate owned expense) divided by noninterest income (excluding net securities gains, net impairment losses and gains/losses on disposition of premises and equipment) plus tax-equivalent net interest income.
Texas ratio - total nonperforming assets divided by tangible common equity plus the allowance for loan losses.
Net interest margin - tax-equivalent net interest income divided by average interest-earning assetsassets.
Dividend payout ratio - dividends paid to common stockholders divided by net income available to common stockholders.income.
Dividend yield - dividends per share paid to common stockholders divided by closing year-end stock price.

28


(1) A lower ratio is better.
(2) As presented, this is a non-GAAP financial measure. See Part II, Item 7 - "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" for additional details.


ITEM 7.  MANAGEMENT'SMANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
(dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

INTRODUCTION

The Company's 2015Company’s 2017 net income was $21,742$23,070 compared to $20,040$23,016 in 2014,2016. Net income for 2017 was a record for the Company, even after recording an increaseadditional provision for income taxes of 8.5 percent. Annual 2015 earnings represented an all-time record within the 122-year history$2,340 as a result of the Company.Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (the Tax Act) legislation that was signed into law on December 22, 2017. Basic and diluted earnings per common share improvedfor 2017 were $1.42 and $1.41, respectively, compared to $1.35$1.43 and $1.42, respectively, in 2015 from $1.25 in 2014.2016. During 2015,2017, we paid our common stockholders $9,952$11,499 ($0.620.71 per common share) in dividends compared to $7,842$10,800 ($0.490.67 per common share) in 2014.2016. The dividend declared and paid in the first quarter of 20162018 was $0.16$0.18 per common share, the same amount as paid in the fourth quarter of 2015.2017, and is the highest quarterly dividend ever paid by the Company.

The increase in 2015Pre-tax net income for 2017 increased $3,486 compared to 2014 was primarily2016, mainly due to a $5,009, or 10.2 percent, increase in net interest income. The growth inthe combination of higher net interest income, was primarily the result of strong loan growth. Also contributing to the growth in net income was a gain on sale of our investment in SmartyPig, LLC and a reduction in other real estate owned expense. Partially offsetting these positive aspects of our performance were an increase in the provision for loan losses and growth in noninterest income. These improvements were partially offset by an increase in noninterest expense in 2017 compared to 2016.

As previously mentioned, income tax expense for 2017 included a one-time adjustment to net deferred tax assets as a result of the enactment of the Tax Act. The Tax Act lowers the federal corporate income tax rate to 21 percent beginning in 2018 from a maximum rate of 35 percent in 2017. This reduction in revenue from residential mortgage bankingthe federal corporate income tax rate required the Company to revalue the Company’s net deferred tax assets as of December 31, 2017, in accordance with GAAP, based upon the future lower income tax rate, and a loss on dispositionin turn caused the one-time increase in tax expense. This adjustment did not increase the amount of premises and equipment.income taxes actually paid by the Company.

Our loan portfolio grew to $1,246,688$1,510,500 as of December 31, 2015,2017, from $1,184,045$1,399,870 at the end of 2014.2016. Deposits increased to $1,440,729$1,810,813 as of December 31, 2015,2017, from $1,270,462$1,546,605 as of December 31, 2014.2016. The growth in both was the result of our bankers working with existing customers to provide them with the best financial solutions,additional products and services, as well as business development efforts targeted at new clients. As indicated by the year-end Texas ratio,customers. Our loan portfolio continues to have a high level of credit quality, as nonperforming assets declined further in 20152017 compared to 2014, mainly due to2016. As shown in the disposaltable below, our Texas ratio was significantly better than that of the only other real estate property owned during the most recent year.any financial institution in our defined peer group.

29

(dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)




The Company has a quantitative peer analysis program in place for evaluating our results. The Company's benchmarking peer group of 16 Midwestern, publicly traded, peer financial institutions against which we compared our performance each quarter consisted of BankFinancial Corporation, Baylake Corp., Farmers Capital Bank Corporation, First Defiance Financial Corp., First Mid-Illinois Bancshares, Inc., Hills Bancorporation, Horizon Bancorp, Isabella Bank Corporation, Mercantile Bank Corporation, MidWestOne Financial Group, Inc., MutualFirst Financial, Inc., Peoples Bancorp, Pulaski Financial Corp., QCR Holdings, Inc., Southwest Bancorp and Waterstone Financial, Inc. The members of the peer group are selected based on their business focus, scope and location of operations, size and other considerations. The Company is in the middle of the group in terms of asset size. The group is periodically reviewed, with changes made primarily to reflect merger and acquisition activity. During the third quarter of 2017 one peer ceased to exist due to a merger, so it was removed from the group. An additional financial institution will be added to the peer group in 2018. The group of 15 Midwestern, publicly traded, peer financial institutions against which we compared our performance for 2017 consisted of BankFinancial Corporation, Farmers Capital Bank Corporation, First Business Financial Services, Inc., First Defiance Financial Corp., First Mid-Illinois Bancshares, Inc., Hills Bancorporation, Horizon Bancorp, Isabella Bank Corporation, Mercantile Bank Corporation, MidWestOne Financial Group, Inc., MutualFirst Financial, Inc., Nicolet Bankshares, Inc., Peoples Bancorp, QCR Holdings, Inc. and Waterstone Financial, Inc. Our goal is to perform at or near the top of these peers relative to what we consider to be four key metrics: return on average equity,assets (ROA), return on average assets,equity (ROE), efficiency ratio and Texas ratio. We believe these measures encompass the factors that define the performance of a community bank. ThroughWhen contrasted with the peer group’s metrics for the nine months ended September 30, 2015, our ratios2017 (latest data available), the Company’s metrics for the year ended December 31, 2017 were better than those of each member of our definedcompany in the peer group for each of these measures as shown in the table below.below, except for one peer that had a higher ROA. We expect that trend to have continued through the end of 2015.

2017.
 West Bancorporation, Inc. Peer Group Range
 
Year ended December 31, 20152017 (2)
 Nine months ended September 30, 20152017
Return on average assets1.30%1.18% 0.36%0.59% - 1.27%1.69%
Return on average equity14.88%13.29% 2.79%5.26% - 12.17%11.45%
Efficiency ratio*(1)
46.30%45.39% 55.04%55.07% - 77.26%71.71%
Texas ratio*0.87%0.32% 3.49%2.97% - 29.89%20.68%
* A lower ratio is better.
   
(1)As presented, this is a non-GAAP financial measure. For further information, refer to the section “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” of this Item.
(2)The Company’s ratios for the year ended December 31, 2017, were affected by a one-time increase in federal income tax expense related to the enactment of the Tax Act on December 22, 2017. Management expects peer results to be similarly affected by the Tax Act.

Based on Nasdaq market quotations of our closing stock prices, our stock price increased 16.0 percent from the end of 2014 to the end of 2015. Our earnings outlook is positive, and we have strong capital resources. We anticipate the Company will be profitable in 20162018 at a level that compares favorably with that of our peers. We expect net income in 2018 to be positively impacted by the Tax Act. Our expected effective income tax rate for 2018 is approximately 20 percent. The amount of our future profit will depend,is also dependent, in large part, on the amount of loan losses we incur and our ability to continue to grow the loan portfolio.portfolio, the amount of loan losses we incur, fluctuations in market interest rates, and the strength of the local and national economy.

The following discussion describes the consolidated operations and financial condition of the Company, including West Bank and West Bank’s wholly-owned subsidiary WB Funding Corporation (which owned an interest in a limited liability company that was sold in 2015). Results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2017 are compared to the results for the year ended December 31, 2016; results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2016 are compared to the results for the year ended December 31, 2015; and the consolidated financial condition of the Company as of December 31, 2017 is compared to December 31, 2016.


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The following discussion describes the consolidated operations of the Company, including West Bank, West Bank's wholly-owned subsidiary WB Funding Corporation (which owned an interest in SmartyPig, LLC), and West Bank's 99.99 percent owned subsidiary ICD IV, LLC (a community development entity), and the Company's financial condition as of December 31, 2015. SmartyPig, LLC was sold during the fourth quarter of 2015. ICD IV, LLC was liquidated during the third quarter of 2014 because the underlying loan matured.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

This report is based on the Company'sCompany’s audited consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP established by the Financial Accounting Standards Board.FASB.  The preparation of the Company'sCompany’s financial statements requires management to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, income and expenses. These estimates are based upon historical experience and on various other assumptions that management believes are reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.

The Company'sCompany’s significant accounting policies are described in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.  Based on its consideration of accounting policies that involve the most complex and subjective estimates and judgments, management has identified its most critical accounting policies to be those related to asset impairment judgments, includingthe fair value and other than temporary impairment (OTTI) of investment securitiesfinancial instruments and the allowance for loan losses.

The fair value of a financial instrument is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants in the market in which the reporting entity transacts business. A framework has been established for measuring the fair value of financial instruments that considers the attributes specific to particular assets or liabilities and includes a three-level hierarchy for determining fair value based on the transparency of inputs to each valuation as of the measurement date. The Company evaluates eachestimates the fair value of itsfinancial instruments using a variety of valuation methods. When financial instruments are actively traded and have quoted market prices, quoted market prices are used for fair value and are classified as Level 1. When financial instruments, such as investment securities whose value has declined below amortized cost to determine whetherand derivatives, are not actively traded, the decline inCompany determines fair value based on various sources and may apply matrix pricing with observable prices for similar instruments where a price for the identical instrument is OTTI.not observable. The fair values of these financial instruments, which are classified as Level 2, are determined by pricing models that consider observable market data such as interest rate volatilities, LIBOR yield curve, credit spreads, prices from external market data providers and/or nonbinding broker-dealer quotations. When determining whether an investment security is OTTI, management assessesobservable inputs do not exist, the severity and duration of the decline inCompany estimates fair value based on available market data, and these values are classified as Level 3. Imprecision in estimating fair values can impact the lengthcarrying value of time expected for recovery, the financial condition of the issuerassets and other qualitative factors, as well as whether: (a) it has the intent to sell the security, and (b) it is more likely than not that it will be required to sell the security prior to its anticipated recovery.  In instances when a determination is made that an OTTI exists but management does not intend to sell the security and it is not more likely than not that it will be required to sell the security prior to its anticipated repayment or maturity, the OTTI is separated into: (a) the amount of the total OTTI related to a decrease in cash flows expected to be collected from the security (the credit loss); and (b) the amount of the total OTTI related to all other factors.  The amount of the total OTTI related to the creditrevenue or loss is recognized as a charge to earnings.  The amount of the total OTTI related to all other factors is recognized in other comprehensive income. If the Company intends to sell or it is more likely than not that it will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis, the OTTI is recognized in earnings equal to the entire difference between the investment’s amortized cost basis and its fair value as of the balance sheet date.recorded.

The allowance for loan losses is established through a provision for loan losses charged to expense. Loans are charged against the allowance for loan losses when management believes that collectability of the principal is unlikely. The Company has policies and procedures for evaluating the overall credit quality of its loan portfolio, including timely identification of potential problem loans. On a quarterly basis, management reviews the appropriate level for the allowance for loan losses, incorporating a variety of risk considerations, both quantitative and qualitative. Quantitative factors include the Company'sCompany’s historical loss experience, delinquency and charge-off trends, collateral values, known information about individual loans and other factors. Qualitative factors include the general economic environment in the Company'sCompany’s market areas and the expected trend of those economic conditions. While management uses the best information available to make its evaluation, future adjustments to the allowance may be necessary if there are significant changes in economic conditions or the other factors considered. To the extent that actual results differ from forecasts and management'smanagement’s judgment, the allowance for loan losses may be greater or less than future charge-offs.



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NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES

This report contains references to financial measures that are not defined in GAAP. Such non-GAAP financial measures include the Company’s presentation of net interest income and net interest margin on a fully taxable equivalent (FTE) basis, and the presentation of the efficiency ratio on an FTE basis, excluding certain income and expenses. Management believes these non-GAAP financial measures provide useful information to both management and investors to analyze and evaluate the Company’s financial performance. Both measures are considered standard measures of comparison within the banking industry. Limitations associated with non-GAAP financial measures include the risks that persons might disagree as to the appropriateness of items included in these measures and that different companies might calculate these measures differently. These non-GAAP disclosures should not be considered an alternative to the Company’s GAAP results. The following table reconciles the non-GAAP financial measures of net interest income, net interest margin and efficiency ratio on an FTE basis to GAAP.
  As and for the Years Ended December 31
  2017 2016 2015 2014 2013
Reconciliation of net interest income and net interest margin on an FTE basis to GAAP:          
Net interest income (GAAP) $60,057
 $57,118
 $54,154
 $49,145
 $45,683
Tax-equivalent adjustment (1)
 2,677
 2,623
 2,604
 2,205
 1,884
Net interest income on an FTE basis (non-GAAP) $62,734
 $59,741
 $56,758
 $51,350
 $47,567
Average interest-earning assets $1,863,791
 $1,711,612
 $1,583,059
 $1,429,593
 $1,367,101
Net interest margin on an FTE basis (non-GAAP) 3.37% 3.49% 3.59% 3.59% 3.48%
           
Reconciliation of efficiency ratio on an FTE basis to GAAP:          
Net interest income on an FTE basis (non-GAAP) $62,734
 $59,741
 $56,758
 $51,350
 $47,567
Noninterest income 8,648
 7,982
 8,203
 10,296
 8,494
Less: realized investment securities gains, net (326) (66) (47) (223) 
Plus: (gains) losses on disposal of premises and
     equipment, net
 25
 4
 6
 (1,069) 9
Adjusted income $71,081
 $67,661
 $64,920
 $60,354
 $56,070
Noninterest expense $32,267
 $31,148
 $30,068
 $32,002
 $30,816
Less: Other real estate owned expenses 
 
 (10) (1,865) (1,359)
Adjusted expense $32,267
 $31,148
 $30,058
 $30,137
 $29,457
Efficiency ratio on an adjusted and FTE basis (non-GAAP) (2)
 45.39% 46.03% 46.30% 49.93% 52.55%
(1) Computed on a tax-equivalent basis using an incremental federal income tax rate of 35 percent, adjusted to reflect the effect of the nondeductible interest expense associated with owning tax-exempt securities and loans.
(2) The efficiency ratio expresses noninterest expense as a percent of fully taxable equivalent net interest income and noninterest income, excluding specific noninterest income and expenses. Management believes the presentation of this non-GAAP measure provides supplemental useful information for proper understanding of the financial results, as it enhances the comparability of income and expenses arising from taxable and nontaxable sources.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - 20152017 COMPARED TO 20142016

OVERVIEW

Key performance measures of our 20152017 operations compared to 20142016 included:

Return on average assets (ROA)ROA was 1.301.18 percent compared to 1.321.27 percent in 2014.2016.
Return on average equity (ROE)ROE was 14.8813.29 percent compared to 15.1914.35 percent in 2014.2016.
Efficiency ratio improved to 46.30was 45.39 percent compared to 49.9346.03 percent in 2014.2016.
Texas ratio improved to 0.87was 0.32 percent compared to 2.710.56 percent in 2014.2016.
The loan portfolio grew 5.37.9 percent during 2015.2017.
Deposits increased by 13.417.1 percent during 2015.2017.


Net income for the year ended December 31, 20152017, was $21,742,$23,070, compared to $20,04023,016 for the year ended December 31, 20142016. Basic and diluted earnings per common share for 2017 were $1.351.42 and $1.41, respectively, and were $1.251.43 and $1.42, respectively, for 20152016 and .2014, respectively.


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(dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)



The improvement in 20152017 net income compared to 20142016 was primarily becausethe result of an increase in interest income due to growth in average loan volume. Growthearning assets, which exceeded the increase in loans outstanding required ainterest expense on deposits and borrowed funds. The Company recorded no provision for loan losses of $850 in 2015,2017 compared to a provision of $750$1,000 in 2014.2016. Noninterest income declined $2,093 for 2015 primarily dueincreased $666, or 8.3 percent, in 2017 compared to a $1,231 reduction2016, mainly as the result of an increase in revenue from residential mortgage banking, a $1,075 reduction intrust services, net gains on dispositionsales of premisesinvestment securities and equipment, a $181 reduction inhigher service charges on deposit accounts and a $176 reduction in net gains from sale of investment securities.accounts. Partially offsetting these reductionspositive changes for 2017 was a one-time gain of $590 on the sale of WB Funding's investment$1,119, or 3.6 percent, increase in SmartyPig, LLC.noninterest expense. Noninterest expense declined $1,934 between 2014grew primarily due to increases in salaries and 2015 primarily because 2014 included $1,786 in other real estate owned write-downs based on updated appraisalsbenefits. As previously mentioned, 2017 income tax expense was impacted by a one-time increase of several properties. Income taxes increased in 2015 as$2,340 due to the prior year included a higher levelenactment of utilization of capital loss carryforwards in connection with the sale of one branch office and one investment security.tax legislation.

The Company has consistently used the efficiency ratio as one of its key financial metrics to measure expense control. For the year ended December 31, 20152017, the Company'sCompany’s efficiency ratio improved slightly to 46.3045.39 percent from the prior year'syear’s ratio of 49.9346.03 percent. This ratio is computed by dividing noninterest expense (excluding other real estate owned expense) by the sum of tax-equivalent net interest income plus noninterest income (excluding net investment securities gains, net impairment losses and gains/losses on disposition of premises and equipment). The ratio for both years was significantly better than the respective averages of our peer group's averages,group, which were generally around 65approximately 66 percent and 7068 percent, respectively, according to data in the September 20152017 and 2014December 2016 Bank Holding Company Performance Report,Reports, which isare prepared by the Federal Reserve Board'sBoard’s Division of Banking Supervision and Regulation.

The Texas ratio, which is the ratio of nonperforming assets to tangible capital plus the allowance for loan losses, improved to 0.870.32 percent as of December 31, 2015,2017, compared to 2.710.56 percent as of December 31, 2014.2016. A lower Texas ratio indicates a stronger credit quality condition. The continued decline was the result of additional reductions in the level of nonperforming assets, as resources were devoted to collection and the sale of the only other real estate owned property held during 2015. The ratio for both years iswas significantly better than peer group averages, which were approximately 98 percent and 1410 percent, respectively, according to data in the September 20152017 and 2014December 2016 Bank Holding Company Performance Reports. For more discussion on loan quality, see the Loan Portfolio“Loan Portfolio” and Summary“Summary of the Allowance for Loan LossesLosses” sections in this Item of this report.Form 10-K.

Net Interest Income

Net interest income increased to $54,15460,057 for 20152017 from $49,145$57,118 for 20142016, as the impact of loanthe growth and lower deposit ratesof interest-earning assets exceeded the effect of an increase in the 11 basis point decline in average yieldrate paid on loans.interest-bearing liabilities. The net interest margin held steady atfor 2017 declined 12 basis points to 3.593.37 percent compared to 3.49 percent for both years.2016. The average yield on earning assets declinedincreased by six11 basis points, while the rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities declined fiveincreased by 27 basis points. As a result, the net interest spread, which is the difference between the yields earned on assets and the rates paid on liabilities, declined to 3.423.11 percent for 2015in 2017 from 3.433.27 percent a year earlier.in 2016. Management expects there to be continued pressure on the net interest margin in 2018. For additional analysis of net interest income, see the section captioned "Distribution“Distribution of Assets, Liabilities and Stockholders'Stockholders’ Equity; Interest Rates; and Interest Differential"Differential” in this Item of this Form 10-K.


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(dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)



Provision for Loan Losses and Loan Quality

The allowance for loan losses, which totaled $14,967$16,430 as of December 31, 2015,2017, represented 1.201.09 percent of total loans and 1,024.42,641.5 percent of nonperforming loans at year end, compared to 1.15 percent and 702.51,576.5 percent, respectively, as of December 31, 2014. The2016. No provision for loan losses increased to $850 in 2015was recorded for 2017 compared to $750$1,000 for 2014 due to growth2016, as recoveries on previously charged off loans exceeded charge-offs in the loan portfolio.2017. The Company experienced net recoveries of 0.04were sufficient to increase the allowance for loan losses to a level deemed appropriate in relation to the 2017 loan growth and strong credit quality. Net recoveries were 0.02 percent of average loans for 20152017 compared to net charge-offsrecoveries of 0.090.01 percent for 2014.2016.

Nonperforming loans at December 31, 2015,2017 totaled $1,461,$622, or 0.120.04 percent of total loans, down from $1,937,$1,022, or 0.160.07 percent of total loans, at December 31, 2014.2016. Nonperforming loans include loans on nonaccrual status, loans past due 90 days or more, and loans that have been considered to be troubled debt restructured (TDR) due to the borrowers'borrowers’ financial difficulties. The Company held no other real estate properties as of December 31, 2015, compared to $2,235 as2017 or 2016.


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(dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)



Noninterest Income

The following table shows the variance from the prior year in the noninterest income categories shown in the Consolidated Statements of Income. In addition, accounts within the “Other income” category that represent a significant portion of the total or a significant variance are shown. 
Years ended December 31Years ended December 31
Noninterest income:2015 2014 Change Change %2017 2016 Change Change %
Service charges on deposit accounts$2,609
 $2,790
 $(181) (6.49)%$2,632
 $2,461
 $171
 6.95 %
Debit card usage fees1,830
 1,764
 66
 3.74 %1,754
 1,825
 (71) (3.89)%
Trust services1,286
 1,327
 (41) (3.09)%1,705
 1,310
 395
 30.15 %
Revenue from residential mortgage banking163
 1,394
 (1,231) (88.31)%
Increase in cash value of bank-owned life insurance727
 731
 (4) (0.55)%652
 647
 5
 0.77 %
Gain (loss) on disposition of premises and equipment(6) 1,069
 (1,075) (100.56)%
Gain from bank-owned life insurance307
 443
 (136) (30.70)%
Realized investment securities gains, net47
 223
 (176) (78.92)%326
 66
 260
 393.94 %
Other income: 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
Loan fees120
 98
 22
 22.45 %74
 110
 (36) (32.73)%
Letter of credit fees82
 127
 (45) (35.43)%73
 96
 (23) (23.96)%
Credit card fees250
 261
 (11) (4.21)%
Gain on sale of other assets590
 
 590
 N/A
88
 
 88
 N/A
Discount on purchased income tax credits153
 94
 59
 62.77 %
All other755
 773
 (18) (2.33)%634
 669
 (35) (5.23)%
Total other income1,547
 998
 549
 55.01 %1,272
 1,230
 42
 3.41 %
Total noninterest income$8,203
 $10,296
 $(2,093) (20.33)%$8,648
 $7,982
 $666
 8.34 %
The declineincrease in service charges on deposit accounts for 2017 compared to 2016 was causeddriven by fewer instancesthe March and April 2017 realignment and simplification of nonsufficientthe retail checking account products provided to our customers. We expect retail service charges in 2018 to exceed those in 2017, but management cannot predict how customers might modify their banking behavior in response to the change in checking account terms related to product realignment. Nonsufficient funds fees as customers strove to maintain positive balancesdeclined $126 in their accounts.

Revenue from residential mortgage banking declined in 20152017 compared to 2014 due to2016, consistent with the Company changing its process for providing first mortgage loans to its customers, as previously disclosed. The Company changed its process for providing first mortgage loans to its customers attrend of the end of 2014. Starting in January 2015, residential mortgage underwriting and processing were outsourced and funding for residential mortgages is now provided by a third party. The Company currently receives a fee from that third party for each residential mortgage loan initiated and closed by our retail staff. The reduction in this source of revenue had a correlating reduction in associated operating expenses.past several years.

Revenue from trust services was lowerhigher in 20152017 than in 2016 due to the combination of a higher amount of one-time estate fees, and asset growth achieved through ongoing business development efforts and strong financial markets.

Gain from bank-owned life insurance was recognized for both 2017 and 2016.

The Company recognized net gains on sales of investment securities in 2017, as the Company took advantage of the opportunity to sell various types of investment securities available for sale at net gains and reinvested the proceeds in higher yielding securities with similar risk profiles and slightly longer durations. The Company recognized investment securities gains of $66 during 2016.

Loan fees declined in 2017 compared to 2014the previous year, as 2016 included one-time fees of $39 from public company floating rate commercial loans. Letter of credit fees declined due to a reductionlower level of standby letters of credit activity in 2017 compared to 2016. Volumes of letters of credit fluctuate based upon the numberneeds of accounts and amountour commercial customers.

Gain on sale of other assets held within custody accounts, and fewer one-time estate fees.in 2017 included a nonrecurring gain related to a final payment received from the 2015 sale of WB Funding’s investment in SmartyPig, LLC. The reduction was partially offset through business development efforts that have increasedCompany plans to dissolve WB Funding early in 2018.

Total revenue from discounts on purchased State of Iowa transferable income tax credits were higher in 2017 than in 2016 because the number of accounts and amount of assets held within trust accounts. Trust assets earn feesCompany entered into additional agreements to purchase tax credits at a higher rate than thosediscount. The Company reviews opportunities to acquire transferable State of custody assets.Iowa income tax credits at favorable discounts as they are presented and as they are aligned with our projected ability to utilize them. The Company’s previous agreement to purchase wind energy tax credits expired in May 2017.

The sale of the downtown Iowa City office and the disposition ofAll other unused assets resultedincome declined in a net gain of $1,0692017 compared to 2016, primarily due to small losses on equipment disposals in 2014. In January 2015, West Bank opened a newly constructed eastern Iowa main office in Coralville, which replaced the operations of the office that was sold.2017.


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The Company recognized net gains on sales of securities in 2015 and 2014 as sales were undertaken in order to capitalize on net gains while being able to reinvest the proceeds in investment securities with higher yields. In the fourth quarter of 2014, the Company also sold a pooled trust preferred security that had previously been reported as a security available for sale with OTTI at a loss of $493. The fair value of that nonperforming asset had been slowly improving over the two years prior to its sale.

Loan fees were higher in 2015 compared to 2014 primarily due to recognition of a previously deferred rate lock fee on one loan. A lower level of outstanding letters of credit caused the reduction in revenue from letter of credit fees in 2015 compared to 2014. Volumes of letters of credit fluctuate based upon the needs of our commercial customers.

The gain on sale of other assets recognized in 2015 was a nonrecurring item. On November 30, 2015, SmartyPig, LLC was sold, and the Company recognized a gain of $590 on its ownership interest.

Noninterest Expense

The following table shows the variance from the prior year in the noninterest expense categories shown in the Consolidated Statements of Income. In addition, accounts within the “Other expenses” category that represent a significant portion of the total or a significant variance are shown.
Years ended December 31Years ended December 31
Noninterest expense:2015 2014 Change Change %
2017 2016 Change Change %
Salaries and employee benefits$16,065
 $16,086
 $(21) (0.13)%$17,633
 $16,731
 $902
 5.39 %
Occupancy4,105
 4,165
 (60) (1.44)%4,406
 4,033
 373
 9.25 %
Data processing2,329
 2,241
 88
 3.93 %2,677
 2,510
 167
 6.65 %
FDIC insurance839
 757
 82
 10.83 %677
 937
 (260) (27.75)%
Other real estate owned10
 1,865
 (1,855) (99.46)%
Professional fees748
 944
 (196) (20.76)%1,075
 774
 301
 38.89 %
Director fees881
 714
 167
 23.39 %950
 888
 62
 6.98 %
Miscellaneous losses30
 329
 (299) (90.88)%
Other expenses:   
  
  
   
  
  
Marketing253
 220
 33
 15.00 %224
 231
 (7) (3.03)%
Business development654
 702
 (48) (6.84)%779
 701
 78
 11.13 %
Insurance361
 384
 (23) (5.99)%
Bank service charges and investment advisory fees710
 551
 159
 28.86 %
Charitable contributions360
 180
 180
 100.00 %
Insurance expense355
 348
 7
 2.01 %
Investment advisory fees110
 442
 (332) (75.11)%
Subscriptions297
 177
 120
 67.80 %
Trust396
 344
 52
 15.12 %432
 415
 17
 4.10 %
Consulting fees260
 337
 (77) (22.85)%297
 302
 (5) (1.66)%
Postage and courier303
 321
 (18) (5.61)%
Supplies305
 292
 13
 4.45 %267
 310
 (43) (13.87)%
Low income housing projects amortization228
 188
 40
 21.28 %435
 418
 17
 4.07 %
All other1,534
 1,703
 (169) (9.92)%1,350
 1,610
 (260) (16.15)%
Total other5,061
 4,901
 160
 3.26 %4,849
 5,275
 (426) (8.08)%
Total noninterest expense$30,068
 $32,002
 $(1,934) (6.04)%$32,267
 $31,148
 $1,119
 3.59 %

Salaries and employee benefits increased in 2017 compared to 2016, mainly as a result of an increase in the market price of Company common stock, which increased stock-based compensation costs.

Occupancy costs increased for 2015 had a minimal net change from 2014. The staff reductions2017 compared to 2016, partially as the result of operating costs associated with the new Rochester Minnesota, office, which opened in December 2014 related toNovember 2016. Also impacting the residential mortgage loan origination changes lowered salaries and employee benefits by approximately $1,051increase in 2015occupancy costs compared to the prior year. Offsetting these reductions were increasesyear was a first quarter 2016 one-time reversal of previously accrued rent related to the terms of the previous lease for the Waukee, Iowa, branch facility at the time the branch was acquired in stock-based compensation costs of $342, along with normal annual salary increases.February 2016.

DataThe increase in data processing expense increased in 20152017 compared to 2016 was primarily because of costs associated with upgrading credit analysis software, one-time costs associated with revising the addition of mobile banking technology, the continued strengthening ofretail checking account products, ongoing enhancements and monitoring tools for maintaining security, measures and an annual inflation-rate-based contractual increase in fees paid to our core processor that is based upon an inflation factor.applications system service provider.

The FDIC assessment rate calculation includes a series of risk-based factors. In May 2017, the Company contributed capital in the amount of $40,000 into West Bank, and as a result, the capital ratio component improved enough to reduce the assessment rate to the minimum base assessment level established by the FDIC. This reduction in rate is the primary reason for the decline in FDIC insurance expense for 2017 compared to 2016. Management believes the assessment rate will remain at the minimum level in 2018 based on the Company’s strong capital position, but expects the FDIC premium expense to increase due to the Company’s asset growth.

Professional fees increased for 2017 compared to 2016, chiefly due to increased costs associated with preparation and adoption of the West Bancorporation, Inc. 2017 Equity Incentive Plan, filing an updated shelf registration statement with the SEC (which allows us to issue registered equity and debt instruments), services performed to analyze capital and debt structures, and higher legal fees at West Bank.

Director fees increased in 2017 from 2016 due to higher stock-based compensation costs.


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Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) insurance expense increased for 2015 compared to 2014 due to growth in total assets. In January 2016, the FDIC approved a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on refinements to the deposit insurance assessment system for small insured depository institutions (generally, those institutions with less than $10 billion in total assets). The refinements will become effective the quarter after the reserve ratio of the Deposit Insurance Fund reaches 1.15 percent. The Company's analysis projects that the proposal would increase our annual cost of FDIC insurance by approximately $50 based on our current balance sheet size.

Other real estate owned expense declined in 2015 compared to 2014, as the prior year included other real estate owned property valuation write-downs of $1,786 due to obtaining updated appraisals of several properties held. The Company held only one parcel of land in other real estate owned throughout 2015 and incurred a negligible amount of real estate taxes up to its sale in December 2015.

Professional fees declined in 2015 compared to 2014 due to lower legal fees. Director fees increased for the same time period as a result of higher stock-based compensation costs.

Miscellaneous losses include uncollected overdrafts, debit card fraud, other losses due to operational errors, and charges to establish loss reserves related to mortgage loans sold in the secondary market. Collectively, these activities generated lower losses in 2015 compared to 2014.

The increase in bank service chargesbusiness development expense in 2017 compared to 2016 was the result of efforts to cultivate new and investmentexpanded customer relationships.

Investment advisory fees for 2015 compared to 2014 resulteddeclined in 2017 from 2016, mainly as a result of bringing the administration of the investment portfolio in-house, effective October 1, 2016. The Company also pays an administrative fee charged byto an investment management firm for assisting with the purchase and administration of public company floating rate commercial loans. This arrangement beganThat administration fee declined as a result of holding a lower level of those loans. Investment advisory fees are expected to decline further in the second quarter of 2014. As of December 31, 2015,2018 as the Company had approximately $50,000 of thesedoes not plan to add any additional public company floating rate commercial loans outstanding and may increase the balance of this portfolio up to approximately $75,000 during 2016.

Charitable contributions doubled in 2015 compared to 2014 as management chose to increase current year contributions to the West Bancorporation Foundation.

Consulting fees declined in 2015 as the prior year included fees paid for three one-time projects.our portfolio.

The increase in 2015subscription costs in 2017 as contrasted to 2016 was primarily caused by subscribing to enhanced fraud monitoring, business continuity and investment research services.

All other expenses declined for low income housing project amortization2017 compared to 2014 was2016, primarily due to the elimination of certain costs related to the Company making commitments in 2014 to invest in additional projects. Offsetting the amortization expense in both 2015a retail deposit product and 2014 were approximately $275 and $160, respectively, of federal low income housing tax credits.lower loan-related costs. Additionally, first quarter 2016 included a one-time cost associated with a bank-owned life insurance claim.

Income Taxes

The Company records a provision for income tax expense currently payable, along with a provision for those taxes payable or refundable in the future. Such deferredfuture (deferred taxes). Deferred taxes arise from differences in the timing of certain items for financial statement reporting compared to income tax reporting.reporting and are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. Federal income tax expense for 2017 and 2016 was approximately $11,349 and $8,335, respectively, while state income tax expense was approximately $2,019 and $1,601, respectively. The effective rate of income tax expense as a percent of income before income taxes was 36.7 percent and 30.2 percent, respectively, for 2017 and 2016.

Income tax expense for 2017 included a one-time increase in federal income tax expense related to the enactment of the Tax Act. This legislation reduces the federal corporate income tax rate for 2018 and future years from the current maximum rate of 35 percent to a flat tax rate of 21 percent. This future reduction in the corporate tax rate required the Company to reduce net deferred tax assets as of December 31, 2017 by $2,340 and in turn caused the one-time increase in 2017 tax expense. Exclusive of the one-time increase in 2017 federal income tax expense, the effective income tax rate differs from the federal statutory income tax rate primarily due to tax-exempt interest income, the tax-exempt increase in cash value of bank-owned life insurance, tax-exempt gain on bank-owned life insurance, disallowed interest expense and state income taxes.

Two other items significantly impacted the effective tax rate for 2017 compared to 2016. The first item was the adoption of ASU No. 2016-09, Compensation—Stock Compensation (Topic 718), effective January 1, 2017, which simplified the recording of income taxes utilizationrelated to vesting of capital loss carryforwards and tax credits.equity compensation. The effective rateimpact of an increase in the fair value of restricted stock over the vesting period is now recorded as a reduction in income tax expense rather than as additional paid-in capital. During 2017, a tax benefit of $285 was recorded as a percentresult of income before income taxesthis change in accounting method. By comparison, the tax benefit recorded in additional paid-in capital for 2016 was 30.8 percent and 24.9 percent, respectively, for 2015 and 2014.

Income tax expense for 2015 was slightly lower than would be expected due to$105. The second item impacting the utilization of approximately $372 of capital loss carryforwards. The capital gains were generated from the sale of the Company's investment in SmartyPig, LLC. The 2014 effective rate was also impacted by utilization of capital loss carryforwards related to the sale of an office in Iowa City and the sale of an impaired investment security. In prior years, the Company recorded a valuation allowance for the capital loss carryforwards, as management believed it was more likely than not that such carryforwards would expire without being utilized. The reduction in 2015 income tax expense related to the carryforwards utilized was approximately $130. The effective tax rate for both years was also impacted by federal income tax credits, including low income housing tax credits, as discussed in the previous section.  Federal income tax expense wasof approximately $8,169$410 and $5,446 for 2015 and 2014, respectively, while state income tax expense was approximately $1,528 and $1,203,$405, respectively.

The parent Company continues to maintain a valuation allowance against the tax effect of state net operating losses and federal and state capital loss carryforwards, as management believes it is likely that such carryforwards will expire without being utilized.


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RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - 20142016 COMPARED TO 20132015

OVERVIEW

Key performance measures of our 2016 operations compared to 2015 included:

ROA was 1.27 percent compared to 1.30 percent in 2015.
ROE was 14.35 percent compared to 14.88 percent in 2015.
Efficiency ratio was 46.03 percent compared to 46.30 percent in 2015.
Texas ratio was 0.56 percent compared to 0.87 percent in 2015.
The loan portfolio grew 12.3 percent during 2016.
Deposits increased by 7.3 percent during 2016.


Net income for the year ended December 31, 2014,2016, was $20,040,$23,016, compared to $16,891$21,742 for the year ended December 31, 2013.2015. Basic and diluted earnings per common share for 2016 were $1.25$1.43 and $1.02$1.42, respectively, and were $1.35 and $1.35, respectively, for 2014 and 2013, respectively. The Company's ROA was 1.32 percent, compared to 1.17 percent for the year ended December 31, 2013. The Company's 2014 ROE was 15.19 percent, compared to 13.22 percent in 2013.2015.

The improvement in 2016 net income in 2014 compared to 20132015 was primarily becausethe result of an increase in interest income due to growth in average loan volume. Growth in loans outstanding required a provision for loan losses of $1,000 in 2014 of $7502016, compared to a negative provision of $850 for 2013.in 2015. Noninterest income grew $1,802 for 2014declined $221 in 2016 compared to 2015. Noninterest income in 2015 included a gain of $590 from 2013the sale of WB Funding’s investment in SmartyPig, LLC, while 2016 included a $443 tax-exempt gain from bank-owned life insurance. Meanwhile, noninterest expense increased $1,080 between 2015 and 2016 primarily due to net gains on disposition of premisesincreases in salaries and equipment of $1,069benefit costs and a $330 increase in trust services. Noninterest expense increased $1,186, with a large portion of the increase due to an increase of $445 in other real estate owned write-downs based on updated appraisals of several properties. Income taxes declined in 2014 primarily due to the utilization of capital loss carryforwards in connection with the sale of one branch office and one investment security.higher low income housing projects amortization.

ForAs shown above, the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company'sCompany’s efficiency ratio for 2016 improved slightly compared to 49.932015. The ratio for both years was significantly better than our peer group’s averages, which were approximately 68 percent fromand 70 percent, respectively, according to data in the prior year's ratio of 52.55 percent.December 2016 and December 2015 Bank Holding Company Performance Reports.

Net Interest Income

Net interest income increased $3,462 to $49,145$57,118 for 20142016 from $54,154 for 2015 as the impact of loan growth higher average yields on investment securities and lower deposit rates exceeded the effect of an increase in the 27 basis point decline in average yieldrate paid on loans.interest-bearing liabilities. The net interest margin increasedfor 2016 declined 10 basis points to 3.49 percent compared to 3.59 percent in 2014 compared to 3.48 percent for the year ended December 31, 2013. In 2014, the2015. The average yield on earning assets increaseddeclined by twoone basis points,point, while the rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities declined 12increased 14 basis points compared to 2013.points. As a result, the net interest spread increaseddeclined to 3.433.27 percent in 2014 compared to 3.29for 2016 from 3.42 percent a year earlier.

Provision for Loan Losses and Loan Quality

The allowance for loan losses, which totaled $13,607$16,112 as of December 31, 2014,2016, represented 1.15 percent of total loans and 702.51,576.5 percent of nonperforming loans at year end, compared to 1.391.20 percent and 473.11,024.4 percent, respectively, as of December 31, 2013.2015. The provision for loan losses was $750increased to $1,000 in 2014,2016 compared to a negative provision of $850 for 2013.2015 due to growth in the loan portfolio. The Company'sCompany experienced net charge-offs as arecoveries of 0.01 percent of average loans were 0.09for 2016 compared to net recoveries of 0.04 percent for both 2014 and 2013.2015.

Nonperforming loans at December 31, 2014,2016 totaled $1,937,$1,022, or 0.160.07 percent of total loans, down from $2,915,$1,461, or 0.290.12 percent of total loans, at December 31, 2013. In addition, the2015. The Company held oneno other real estate property with a carrying value of $2,235properties as of December 31, 2014 and held $5,800 of other real estate owned as of December 31, 2013. The Company's Texas ratio improved to 2.71 percent as of December 31, 2014, compared to 7.69 percent as of December 31, 2013.2016 or 2015.


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Noninterest Income

The following table shows the variance from the prior year in the noninterest income categories shown in the Consolidated Statements of Income. In addition, accounts within the “Other income” category that represent a significant portion of the total or a significant variance are shown.

Years ended December 31Years ended December 31
Noninterest income:2014 2013 Change Change %2016 2015 Change Change %
Service charges on deposit accounts$2,790
 $2,923
 $(133) (4.55)%$2,461
 $2,609
 $(148) (5.67)%
Debit card usage fees1,764
 1,787
 (23) (1.29)%1,825
 1,830
 (5) (0.27)%
Trust services1,327
 997
 330
 33.10 %1,310
 1,286
 24
 1.87 %
Revenue from residential mortgage banking1,394
 1,275
 119
 9.33 %
Increase in cash value of bank-owned life insurance731
 646
 85
 13.16 %647
 727
 (80) (11.00)%
Gain (loss) on disposition of premises and equipment1,069
 (9) 1,078
 11,977.78 %
Gain from bank-owned life insurance443
 
 443
 N/A
Realized investment securities gains, net223
 
 223
 N/A
66
 47
 19
 40.43 %
Other income:              
Loan fees98
 76
 22
 28.95 %110
 120
 (10) (8.33)%
Letter of credit fees127
 50
 77
 154.00 %96
 82
 14
 17.07 %
Wire transfer fees141
 126
 15
 11.90 %
ATM fees56
 42
 14
 33.33 %
Credit card fees261
 213
 48
 22.54 %
Gain on sale of other assets
 590
 (590) (100.00)%
Discount on purchased income tax credits94
 58
 36
 62.07 %
All other576
 581
 (5) (0.86)%669
 641
 28
 4.37 %
Total other income998
 875
 123
 14.06 %1,230
 1,704
 (474) (27.82)%
Total noninterest income$10,296
 $8,494
 $1,802
 21.21 %$7,982
 $8,203
 $(221) (2.69)%
The decline in serviceService charges on deposit accounts declined in 2014 compare2016 compared to 2013 was caused by2015 primarily due to lower fees resulting from fewer instances of nonsufficient funds fees partially offset by increased fees from commercial accounts.as customers continued to improve monitoring of their account balances.

RevenuesRevenue from trust services experienced significant growth during 2014 as a resultwas higher in 2016 than in 2015 due to the combination of newsuccessful business along withdevelopment efforts, pricing updates for certain account types, and higher asset values.

The volume of residential mortgage originations sold into the secondary market during 2014 declined to $62,067 from $93,593 in 2013, while revenue increased. Revenue for 2013 was negatively impacted by a sudden rise in mortgage interest rates that occurred in June 2013, which caused a significant decline in gains recognized per loan sold in the third quarter of 2013.

The Company invested an additional $5,000 in bank-owned life insurance in the second quarter of 2014, resulting in a higher level of increasesincrease in cash value of bank-owned life insurance.insurance was lower in 2016 than in 2015 as crediting rates within the policies declined slightly due to the low interest rate environment. Gain from bank-owned life insurance was recognized in 2016, while none was recognized in 2015.

The fourth quarter 2014 sale ofLoan fees declined in 2016 compared to 2015 due to the downtown Iowa City office and the disposition of other unused assets resulted in a net gain of $1,069.

The Company recognized net gains on sales of investment securities of $716 in the first nine months of 2014. In the fourth quarter of 2014, the Company recognized a loss of $493 on the salerecognition of a pooled trust preferred security that had previously been reported as a security available for sale with OTTI. The fair value of this nonperforming asset had been slowly improving over the prior two years. While recognizing a loss for book purposes, this security was eligible for capital gain treatment for tax purposes, which allowed utilization of capital loss carryforwards. This resulteddeferred rate lock fee on one loan in a tax benefit that was in excess of the book loss. There were no sales of investment securities during 2013.

The increase in loan fees in 2014 was mainly due to amortization of commitment fees.2015. Letter of credit fees increased in 2014grew due to a higher volumethe increase in the amount of standby letters of credit activity in 2016 compared to the prior year.2015.

Credit card fees increased in 2016 compared to 2015 due to both higher volumes of transactions and an increase in the number of credit cards issued through a third party.

Gain on sale of other assets in 2015 was associated with the sale of WB Funding’s investment in SmartyPig, LLC.

Total revenue from discounts on purchased State of Iowa income tax credits were higher in 2016 than in 2015 because the Company purchased one Enterprise Zone tax credit at a discount of $33 in 2016. During 2016 and 2015, the Company also had an agreement to purchase wind energy tax credits at a discount.


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Noninterest Expense

The following table shows the variance from the prior year in the noninterest expense categories shown in the Consolidated Statements of Income. In addition, accounts within the “Other expenses” category that represent a significant portion of the total or a significant variance are shown.

Years ended December 31Years ended December 31
Noninterest expense:2014 2013 Change Change %2016 2015 Change Change %
Salaries and employee benefits$16,086
 $15,757
 $329
 2.09 %$16,731
 $16,065
 $666
 4.15 %
Occupancy4,165
 3,906
 259
 6.63 %4,033
 4,105
 (72) (1.75)%
Data processing2,241
 2,030
 211
 10.39 %2,510
 2,329
 181
 7.77 %
FDIC insurance757
 733
 24
 3.27 %937
 839
 98
 11.68 %
Other real estate owned1,865
 1,359
 506
 37.23 %
Professional fees944
 1,200
 (256) (21.33)%774
 748
 26
 3.48 %
Director fees714
 584
 130
 22.26 %888
 881
 7
 0.79 %
Miscellaneous losses329
 736
 (407) (55.30)%
Other expenses:              
Marketing220
 359
 (139) (38.72)%231
 253
 (22) (8.70)%
Business development702
 505
 197
 39.01 %701
 654
 47
 7.19 %
Insurance384
 370
 14
 3.78 %348
 361
 (13) (3.60)%
Bank service charges and investment advisory fees551
 496
 55
 11.09 %
Investment advisory fees442
 517
 (75) (14.51)%
Charitable contributions180
 360
 (180) (50.00)%
Trust344
 277
 67
 24.19 %415
 396
 19
 4.80 %
Consulting fees337
 276
 61
 22.10 %302
 260
 42
 16.15 %
Postage and courier321
 326
 (5) (1.53)%
Supplies292
 334
 (42) (12.57)%310
 305
 5
 1.64 %
Low income housing projects amortization188
 84
 104
 123.81 %418
 228
 190
 83.33 %
All other1,883
 1,810
 73
 4.03 %1,607
 1,441
 166
 11.52 %
Total other4,901
 4,511
 390
 8.65 %5,275
 5,101
 174
 3.41 %
Total noninterest expense$32,002
 $30,816
 $1,186
 3.85 %$31,148
 $30,068
 $1,080
 3.59 %

Salaries and employee benefits increased in 2016 compared to 2015 primarily as the result of increases in stock-based compensation costs, health insurance, defined contribution plan expenses and payroll taxes. The increases in defined contribution plan expenses and payroll taxes were primarily associated with a one-time payout of accrued vacation that occurred in 2016 in conjunction with a change in the Company’s vacation carryover policy.

Occupancy costs declined for 2016 compared to 2015 primarily as the result of the February 2016 purchase of the Waukee, Iowa, branch facility. Occupancy costs in 2016 included a one-time reversal of previously accrued rent related to the terms of the previous lease.

The increase in salaries and employee benefitsdata processing expense in 20142016 compared to 20132015 was primarily due to recognition of a higher amount of stock-based compensation costs ($145), higher bonus accruals ($187) and higher benefit costs ($102). These increases were partially offset by a decline in commission expense for mortgage loan originators ($129).

Occupancy expense increased in 2014 compared to 2013 due to higher depreciation and equipment service contract expenses related to ongoing technology upgrades. Rent expense also increased for 2014 compared to the prior year due to a full year of expense for the 2013 addition of the Rochester, Minnesota, office; an upgraded office in West Des Moines, Iowa, that was completed in March 2013; and the lease of additional space at the main bank location in February 2013. In addition, maintenance costs increased $64 for 2014 compared to 2013.

Data processing expense increased in 2014 primarily because of the increased volumeimplementation of debit card transactions and additional information security measures, puttechnology upgrades, and an annual contractual increase in place during 2014.fees paid to our core processor that is based upon an inflation factor.

Other real estate ownedFDIC insurance expense increased for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, included $1,786 and $1,341, respectively, of property valuation write-downs2016 compared to 2015 due to updated appraisalsthe combination of several properties.growth in total assets and a July 1, 2016 revision in the assessment rate system for institutions with less than $10 billion in total assets.

ProfessionalInvestment advisory fees declined in 2014 comparedconsisted of fees paid to 2013 due to lower legal fees. Director fees increased in 2014 compared to 2013 as a resultan independent investment advisory firm for assistance with managing the investment portfolio through September 30, 2016, and an administrative fee charged by an investment management firm for assisting with the purchase and administration of higher stock-based compensation costs, as well as an increase in the number of directors effective aspublic company floating rate commercial loans. As previously mentioned, management of the 2013 Annual Meeting.investment portfolio was brought in-house effective October 1, 2016.

Miscellaneous losses include uncollected overdrafts, debit card fraud, other losses dueCharitable contributions were higher in 2015 than in 2016 as management made a decision to operational errors and chargesmake an extra contribution to establish loss reserves related to mortgage loans soldthe West Bancorporation Foundation in the secondary market. Collectively, these activities generated lower losses in 2014 than 2013.2015.

Certain outsourced marketing activities were brought in-house in 2014, resulting in reduced costs. The increase in business development costs in 2014 compared to 2013 was the result of expanding sponsorships of local events in the communities the Company serves, as well as a continued focus on developing new relationships.

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During 2014, West Bank entered into an agreement with an investment management firm to assist in the purchase of up to $50,000 of public company floating rate loans. As of December 31, 2014, approximately $42,000 of these loans were outstanding. The agreement includes an annual administration fee, which was the primary reason for the 2014 increase in bank service charges and investment advisory fees compared to 2013. Trust expense increased in 2014 compared to the prior year consistent with increased revenue. Consulting fees increased in 20142016 compared to 2015 primarily due to fees paid for three one-time projects.
The costexpenses relating to data analysis conducted in association with class action litigation that was disclosed in prior filings. A proposed settlement of supplies declined$250 was reached in 2014 as expense for 2013 included one-timethe fourth quarter of 2016 and was approved in the first quarter of 2017. An insurance reimbursement of litigation costs to reissue debit cards related to changing processors.in the amount of $300 was received in the fourth quarter of 2016.

The increase in the cost of low income housing projectprojects amortization in 2016 compared to 2015 was related to the Company investingcommitting in both years to invest in additional projects during 2014.projects. Offsetting the amortization expense in 2014 wasboth 2016 and 2015 were approximately $160$375 and $275, respectively, of federal low income housing federal tax credits, compared to $79 in 2013.which reduced federal income tax expense.

Income Taxes

Federal income tax expense was approximately $8,335 and $8,169 for 2016 and 2015, respectively, while state income tax expense was approximately $1,601 and $1,528, respectively. The effective rate of income tax expense as a percent of income before income taxes was 24.930.2 percent and 30.230.8 percent, respectively, for 20142016 and 2013.2015. The effective income tax rate for both years differs from the federal statutory income tax rate primarily due to tax-exempt interest income, the tax-exempt increase in cash value of bank-owned life insurance, disallowed interest expense and state income taxes. Income tax expense for 20142016 was also lower than the statutory income tax rate due to the previously mentioned tax-exempt gain from bank-owned life insurance. Income tax expense for 2015 was approximately $130 lower than would be expected due to the utilization of approximately $3,766$372 of capital loss carryforwards. The 2014 capital gains were generated from the sale of an officethe Company’s investment in Iowa City and the sale of a previously impaired investment security. The reductionSmartyPig, LLC in 2014 income tax expense related to the carryforwards was approximately $1,318.2015. The effective tax rate for both years was also impacted by federal tax credits, including the previously mentioned low income housing tax credits. The 2013 effectivecredits and an energy tax rate was also impacted by West Bank's 2007 investmentcredit of approximately $30 in a qualified community development entity (ICD IV, LLC), which generated a federal2016 related to the new markets tax credit. The credit, which totaled $2,730, was recognized over a seven-year period ending in 2013.  Federal income tax expense was approximately $5,446 and $6,141 for 2014 and 2013, respectively, while state income tax expense was approximately $1,203 and $1,179, respectively.Rochester, Minnesota, building.


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DISTRIBUTION OF ASSETS, LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS'STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY; INTEREST RATES; AND INTEREST DIFFERENTIAL

Average Balances and an Analysis of Average Rates Earned and Paid

The following table shows average balances and interest income or interest expense, with the resulting average yield or rate by category of average earninginterest-earning assets or interest-bearing liabilities for the years indicated.  Interest income and the resulting net interest income are shown on a fully taxable basis.
2015 2014 20132017 2016 2015
Average
Balance
 
Revenue/
Expense
 
Yield/
Rate
 
Average
Balance
 
Revenue/
Expense
 
Yield/
Rate
 
Average
Balance
 
Revenue/
Expense
 
Yield/
Rate
Average
Balance
 
Revenue/
Expense
 Yield/
Rate
 
Average
Balance
 
Revenue/
Expense
 Yield/
Rate
 
Average
Balance
 
Revenue/
Expense
 Yield/
Rate
Assets                                  
Interest-earning assets:                                  
Loans: (1) (2)
                                  
Commercial$331,306
 $13,813
 4.17% $276,201
 $11,662
 4.22% $247,749
 $10,908
 4.40%$327,673
 $14,279
 4.36% $354,790
 $14,854
 4.19% $331,306
 $13,813
 4.17%
Real estate (3)
873,844
 39,404
 4.51% 779,223
 36,121
 4.64% 696,763
 34,386
 4.94%1,108,062
 49,481
 4.47% 972,571
 43,193
 4.44% 873,844
 39,404
 4.51%
Consumer and other8,304
 325
 3.91% 9,811
 393
 4.01% 7,655
 351
 4.59%8,150
 330
 4.05% 8,795
 348
 3.95% 8,304
 325
 3.91%
Total loans1,213,454
 53,542
 4.41% 1,065,235
 48,176
 4.52% 952,167
 45,645
 4.79%1,443,885
 64,090
 4.44% 1,336,156
 58,395
 4.37% 1,213,454
 53,542
 4.41%
Investment securities: 
  
  
  
  
    
  
   
  
    
  
    
  
  
Taxable232,078
 4,363
 1.88% 252,500
 4,938
 1.96% 289,901
 5,173
 1.78%248,698
 5,501
 2.21% 236,770
 4,201
 1.77% 232,078
 4,363
 1.88%
Tax-exempt (3)
107,414
 4,765
 4.44% 94,851
 4,347
 4.58% 79,187
 3,688
 4.66%143,612
 5,789
 4.03% 118,622
 4,913
 4.14% 107,414
 4,765
 4.44%
Total investment securities339,492
 9,128
 2.69% 347,351
 9,285
 2.67% 369,088
 8,861
 2.40%392,310
 11,290
 2.88% 355,392
 9,114
 2.56% 339,492
 9,128
 2.69%
Federal funds sold30,113
 81
 0.27% 17,007
 45
 0.26% 45,846
 119
 0.26%27,596
 331
 1.20% 20,064
 108
 0.54% 30,113
 81
 0.27%
Total interest-earning assets (3)
1,583,059
 62,751
 3.96% 1,429,593
 57,506
 4.02% 1,367,101
 54,625
 4.00%1,863,791
 75,711
 4.06% 1,711,612
 67,617
 3.95% 1,583,059
 62,751
 3.96%
Noninterest-earning assets: 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
Cash and due from banks46,122
  
  
 34,152
  
  
 33,693
  
  
34,477
  
  
 44,875
  
  
 46,122
  
  
Premises and equipment, net10,904
  
  
 9,513
  
  
 6,607
  
  
23,088
  
  
 18,843
  
  
 10,904
  
  
Other, less allowance for                                  
loan losses35,567
  
  
 39,248
  
  
 38,372
  
  
32,886
  
  
 30,920
  
  
 35,567
  
  
Total noninterest-earning assets92,593
  
  
 82,913
  
  
 78,672
  
  
90,451
  
  
 94,638
  
  
 92,593
  
  
Total assets$1,675,652
  
  
 $1,512,506
  
  
 $1,445,773
  
  
$1,954,242
  
  
 $1,806,250
  
  
 $1,675,652
  
  
                                  
Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
Liabilities and Stockholders’ EquityLiabilities and Stockholders’ Equity  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
Interest-bearing liabilities: 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
Deposits: 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
Savings, interest-bearing                                  
demand and money markets$825,771
 1,341
 0.16% $736,002
 1,222
 0.17% $650,566
 1,611
 0.25%$1,067,164
 6,166
 0.58% $917,774
 2,610
 0.28% $825,771
 1,341
 0.16%
Time128,899
 844
 0.65% 150,378
 1,204
 0.80% 168,050
 1,802
 1.07%147,232
 1,456
 0.99% 110,407
 781
 0.71% 128,899
 844
 0.65%
Total deposits954,670
 2,185
 0.23% 886,380
 2,426
 0.27% 818,616
 3,413
 0.42%1,214,396
 7,622
 0.63% 1,028,181
 3,391
 0.33% 954,670
 2,185
 0.23%
Other borrowed funds146,693
 3,808
 2.60% 150,654
 3,730
 2.48% 178,119
 3,645
 2.05%146,577
 5,355
 3.65% 136,535
 4,485
 3.28% 146,693
 3,808
 2.60%
Total interest-bearing liabilities1,101,363
 5,993
 0.54% 1,037,034
 6,156
 0.59% 996,735
 7,058
 0.71%1,360,973
 12,977
 0.95% 1,164,716
 7,876
 0.68% 1,101,363
 5,993
 0.54%
Noninterest-bearing liabilities: 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
    
  
  
  
  
  
Demand deposits420,842
  
  
 336,456
  
  
 312,648
  
  
412,078
  
   473,380
  
  
 420,842
  
  
Other liabilities7,358
  
  
 7,092
  
  
 8,601
  
  
7,623
  
   7,734
  
  
 7,358
  
  
Stockholders' equity146,089
  
  
 131,924
  
  
 127,789
  
  
Stockholders’ equity173,568
  
  
 160,420
  
  
 146,089
  
  
Total liabilities and                                  
stockholders' equity$1,675,652
  
  
 $1,512,506
  
  
 $1,445,773
  
  
stockholders’ equity$1,954,242
  
  
 $1,806,250
  
  
 $1,675,652
  
  
                                  
Net interest income/net interest spread (3)
 $56,758
 3.42%   $51,350
 3.43%  
 $47,567
 3.29%
Net interest margin (3)
 
  
 3.59%  
  
 3.59%  
  
 3.48%
Net interest income (4)/net interest spread (3)
Net interest income (4)/net interest spread (3)
 $62,734
 3.11%   $59,741
 3.27%  
 $56,758
 3.42%
Net interest margin (3) (4)
 
  
 3.37%  
  
 3.49%  
  
 3.59%
(1)Average loan balances include nonaccrual loans and loans held for sale.loans.  Interest income recognized on nonaccrual loans has been included.
(2)Interest income on loans includes amortization of loan fees and costs and prepayment penalties collected, which are not material.
(3)Tax-exempt income has been adjusted to a tax-equivalent basis using an incremental federal income tax rate of 35 percent and is adjusted to reflect the effect of the nondeductible interest expense associated with owning tax-exempt investment securities and loans.
(4)Net interest income (FTE) and net interest margin (FTE) are non-GAAP financial measures. For further information, refer to the section “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” of this Item.

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Net Interest Income

The Company'sCompany’s largest component of net income is net interest income, which is the difference between interest earned on earninginterest-earning assets, consisting primarily of loans and investment securities, and interest paid on interest-bearing liabilities, consisting of deposits and borrowings.  Fluctuations in net interest income can result from the combination of changes in the balances of asset and liability categories and changes in interest rates.  Interest rates earned and paid are also affected by general economic conditions, particularly changes in market interest rates, and by competitive factors, government policies and the actions of regulatory authorities.  Net interest margin is a measure of the net return on interest-earning assets and is computed by dividing tax-equivalent net interest income by total average interest-earning assets for the year.

For the years ended December 31, 20152017, 20142016 and 20132015, the Company'sCompany’s net interest margin on a tax-equivalent basis was 3.593.37, 3.593.49 and 3.483.59 percent, respectively.  There was an increase of $5,408$2,993 in tax-equivalent net interest income in 20152017 compared to 20142016, primarily due to growth in the loan portfolio. Management continually developsaverage interest-earning assets. This was partially offset by an increase in rates on deposits and applies strategies to maintain the net interest margin. Management believes the net interest margin will remain at approximately the same level in 2016 if outstanding loans remain at similar levels and the Federal Reserve maintains its current monetary policies.borrowed funds.

Rate and Volume Analysis

The rate and volume analysis shown below, on a tax-equivalent basis, is used to determine how much of the change in interest income or expense is the result of a change in volume or a change in interest yield or rate.  The change in interest that is due to both volume and rate has been allocated to the change due to volume and the change due to rate in proportion to the absolute value of the change in each.
2015 Compared to 2014 2014 Compared to 20132017 Compared to 2016 2016 Compared to 2015
Volume Rate Total Volume Rate TotalVolume Rate Total Volume Rate Total
Interest Income                      
Loans: (1)
                      
Commercial$2,299
 $(148) $2,151
 $1,215
 $(461) $754
$(1,166) $591
 $(575) $983
 $58
 $1,041
Real estate (2)
4,289
 (1,006) 3,283
 3,906
 (2,171) 1,735
6,049
 239
 6,288
 4,393
 (604) 3,789
Consumer and other(59) (9) (68) 90
 (48) 42
(26) 8
 (18) 19
 4
 23
Total loans (including fees)6,529
 (1,163) 5,366
 5,211
 (2,680) 2,531
4,857
 838
 5,695
 5,395
 (542) 4,853
Investment securities: 
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
Taxable(389) (186) (575) (704) 469
 (235)220
 1,080
 1,300
 87
 (249) (162)
Tax-exempt (2)
561
 (143) 418
 719
 (60) 659
1,010
 (134) 876
 477
 (329) 148
Total investment securities172
 (329) (157) 15
 409
 424
1,230
 946
 2,176
 564
 (578) (14)
Federal funds sold35
 1
 36
 (76) 2
 (74)52
 171
 223
 (34) 61
 27
Total interest income (2)
6,736
 (1,491) 5,245
 5,150
 (2,269) 2,881
6,139
 1,955
 8,094
 5,925
 (1,059) 4,866
Interest Expense 
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
Deposits: 
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
Savings, interest-bearing                      
demand and money markets146
 (27) 119
 192
 (581) (389)485
 3,071
 3,556
 164
 1,105
 1,269
Time(158) (202) (360) (175) (423) (598)308
 367
 675
 (127) 64
 (63)
Total deposits(12) (229) (241) 17
 (1,004) (987)793
 3,438
 4,231
 37
 1,169
 1,206
Other borrowed funds(100) 178
 78
 (612) 697
 85
345
 525
 870
 (278) 955
 677
Total interest expense(112) (51) (163) (595) (307) (902)1,138
 3,963
 5,101
 (241) 2,124
 1,883
Net interest income (2)
$6,848
 $(1,440) $5,408
 $5,745
 $(1,962) $3,783
Net interest income (2) (3)
$5,001
 $(2,008) $2,993
 $6,166
 $(3,183) $2,983
(1)Average balances of nonaccrual loans were included for computational purposes.
(2)
Tax-exempt income has been converted to a tax-equivalent basis using a federal income tax rate of 35 percent and is adjusted for the effect of the nondeductible interest expense associated with owning tax-exempt investment securities and loans. 


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(dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)
(3)Net interest income (FTE) is a non-GAAP financial measure. For further information, refer to the section “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” of this Item.



Tax-equivalent interest income and fees on loans increased $5,366 for the year ended December 31, 2015 compared to 2014. The average balance of loans increased $148,219 in 2015 compared to 2014 as the Iowa economy remained strong and West Bank lenders in each of our markets focused on business development.  The average yield on loans declined 11 basis points in 2015 compared to 2014.  The yield on the Company's loan portfolio is affected by the mix of the portfolio, the effects of competition, the interest rate environment, the amount of nonperforming loans, and reversals of previously accrued interest on charged-off loans.  The political and interest rate environments can influence the volume of new loan originations and the mix of variable rate versus fixed rate loans.

The average balance of investment securities in 2015 was $7,859 lower than in 2014, while the yield increased 2 basis points.  The decrease in volume was attributable to the combination of sales of investment securities and paydowns received on collateralized mortgage obligations and mortgage-backed securities throughout the year, partially offset by purchases of $99,901 made in the last four months of 2015. The average balance of federal funds sold increased $13,106 during 2015.

The average balance of interest-bearing deposits increased $68,290 in 2015 compared to 2014. The increase in the average balance was primarily the result of higher balances maintained by a significant deposit relationship, the normal fluctuations related to corporate customers' liquidity needs, and significant business development efforts. The average balance of time deposits continues to decline as fewer customers are willing to lock in interest rates in this extended period of historically low interest rates. The average rate paid on deposits in 2015 declined to 0.23 percent from 0.27 percent for 2014. Longer-term, higher-rate time deposits continue to mature and roll over into the current lower rates. The decline in deposit interest rates exceeded the cost attributed to higher interest-bearing deposit account balances, thus causing interest expense on deposits to decline by $241.

The average rate paid on other borrowed funds increased 12 basis points in 2015 compared to 2014, while the average balance declined $3,961 for the same time period. The increase in the average rate paid was primarily due to the amortization of interest rate swap termination fees, increases in the FHLB advances variable rates in the fourth quarter of 2015 and an interest rate swap fixed rate that became effective in December 2015. Management expects the interest costs of other borrowed funds to increase in 2016.

INVESTMENT SECURITIES PORTFOLIO

The following table sets forth the composition of the Company's investment portfolio as of the dates indicated.
 As of December 31
 2015 2014 2013
Securities available for sale, at fair value:     
U.S. government agencies and corporations$2,692
 $12,820
 $12,871
State and political subdivisions73,079
 52,359
 87,788
Collateralized mortgage obligations132,615
 125,870
 168,648
Mortgage-backed securities101,088
 66,153
 58,156
Trust preferred securities1,105
 918
 2,745
Corporate notes and other investments10,135
 14,670
 15,008
Total securities available for sale, fair value and carrying value$320,714
 $272,790
 $345,216
      
Securities held to maturity, at amortized cost:     
State and political subdivisions$51,259
 $51,343
 $

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Tax-equivalent interest income and fees on loans increased $5,695 for the year ended December 31, 2017 compared to 2016. The average balance of loans increased $107,729 in 2017 compared to 2016, as West Bank lenders in each of our markets focused on business development. The average yield on loans increased seven basis points in 2017 compared to 2016.  The yield on the Company’s loan portfolio is affected by the mix of the portfolio, the interest rate environment, the effects of competition, the level of nonaccrual loans, and reversals of previously accrued interest on charged-off loans. The political and economic environments can also influence the volume of new loan originations and the mix of variable-rate versus fixed-rate loans.

The average balance of investment securities in 2017 was $36,918 higher than in 2016, while the yield increased 32 basis points as a result of significant investment purchase activity in 2017. The purchase activity in 2017 focused on higher yielding bonds within the existing risk profile and was the result of growth in deposits and reinvestment of proceeds from sales and principal paydowns of investment securities. In certain cases, securities were sold and the funds were reinvested in securities with higher rates while extending the duration of the portfolio, which is expected to improve the yield on the investment portfolio in future periods.

The average balance of interest-bearing demand, savings and money market deposits increased $149,390 in 2017 compared to 2016. The increase in the average balances was primarily the result of significant business development efforts and growth in public funds from municipalities. In addition, approximately $76,000 of noninterest-bearing accounts was reclassified to interest-bearing accounts in April 2017 as part of a retail deposit product restructuring in which we realigned and simplified the retail checking account products provided to our customers. The average rate paid on interest-bearing demand, savings and money market deposits in 2017 increased to 0.58 percent from 0.28 percent for 2016. The related increase in interest expense was primarily due to increasing interest rates on certain money market deposit products in response to increases in the targeted federal funds rates. The average balance of time deposits increased $36,825 in 2017 compared to 2016. The increase was primarily due to the shift of demand and savings account balances to higher interest rate time deposits. Interest rates on time deposits increased 28 basis points in 2017 compared to 2016, primarily due to higher market interest rates paid at the time new and renewed time deposits were issued.

The average rate paid on other borrowed funds increased 37 basis points in 2017 compared to 2016, and the average balance increased $10,042 between the same time periods. The increase in the average rate paid was due to the combination of an increase in market interest rates for variable-rate FHLB advances, the subordinated notes and long-term debt. The Company entered into a new credit agreement with a commercial bank and borrowed an additional $22,000 of long-term debt in May 2017. In December 2017 the Company paid off an FHLB advance of $25,000 approximately one month in advance of its due date.

INVESTMENT SECURITIES PORTFOLIO

The following table sets forth the composition of the Company’s investment portfolio as of the dates indicated.
 As of December 31
 2017 2016 2015
Securities available for sale, at fair value:     
U.S. government agencies and corporations$
 $2,593
 $2,692
State and political subdivisions146,313
 64,336
 73,079
Collateralized mortgage obligations159,932
 101,950
 132,615
Mortgage-backed securities60,429
 80,158
 101,088
Asset-backed securities45,195
 
 
Trust preferred securities2,006
 1,250
 1,105
Corporate notes and other investments30,344
 10,350
 10,135
Total securities available for sale$444,219
 $260,637
 $320,714
      
Securities held to maturity, at amortized cost:     
State and political subdivisions$45,527
 $48,386
 $51,259


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The investment securities available for sale presented in the following table are reported at fair value and by contractual maturity as of December 31, 20152017.  Expected maturities may differ from contractual maturities because issuers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties. The collateralized mortgage obligations, mortgage-backed securities and mortgage-backedasset-backed securities have monthly paydowns whichthat are not projectedreflected in the table.
Investments as of December 31, 2015 
Within one
year
 
After one year
but within five
years
 
After five years
but within ten
years
 After ten years Total
U.S. government agencies and corporations $
 $2,692
 $
 $
 $2,692
Investments as of December 31, 2017 
Within one
year
 
After one year
but within five
years
 
After five years
but within ten
years
 After ten years Total
State and political subdivisions 766
 8,528
 27,951
 35,834
 73,079
 $110
 $360
 $13,364
 $132,479
 $146,313
Collateralized mortgage obligations 
 1,256
 5,389
 125,970
 132,615
 
 
 8,772
 151,160
 159,932
Mortgage-backed securities 
 1,397
 15,027
 84,664
 101,088
 
 
 8,891
 51,538
 60,429
Asset-backed securities 
 
 
 45,195
 45,195
Trust preferred security 
 
 
 1,105
 1,105
 
 
 
 2,006
 2,006
Corporate notes and other investments 252
 8,062
 300
 1,521
 10,135
Corporate notes 
 1,998
 28,346
 
 30,344
Total $1,018
 $21,935
 $48,667
 $249,094
 $320,714
 $110
 $2,358
 $59,373
 $382,378
 $444,219
                    
Weighted average yield:  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
U.S. government agencies and corporations 
 3.90% 
 
  
State and political subdivisions (1)
 4.14% 4.34% 4.30% 4.40%   4.88% 5.06% 3.13% 3.52%  
Collateralized mortgage obligations 
 3.22% 2.63% 2.19%   
 
 1.93% 2.29%  
Mortgage-backed securities 
 3.70% 2.13% 2.05%   
 
 1.99% 2.43%  
Asset-backed securities 
 
 
 2.89%  
Trust preferred security 
 
 
 2.72%   
 
 
 4.33%  
Corporate notes and other investments 2.04% 1.91% 3.00% 5.32%  
Corporate notes 
 4.19% 4.49% 
  
Total 3.62% 3.27% 3.42% 2.47%   4.88% 4.32% 3.42% 2.81%  
(1)Yields on tax-exempt obligations have been computed on a tax-equivalent basis using an incremental federal income tax rate of 3521 percent, the rate effective as of January 1, 2018, and are adjusted to reflect the effect of the nondeductible interest expense associated with owning tax-exempt investment securities.

The investment securities held to maturity presented in the following table are reported at amortized cost and by contractual maturity as of December 31, 20152017.  Expected maturities may differ from contractual maturities because issuers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties.
Investments as of December 31, 2015 
Within one
year
 
After one year
but within five
years
 
After five years
but within ten
years
 After ten years Total
Investments as of December 31, 2017 
Within one
year
 
After one year
but within five
years
 
After five years
but within ten
years
 After ten years Total
State and political subdivisions $
 $277
 $16,570
 $34,412
 $51,259
 $
 $1,594
 $26,621
 $17,312
 $45,527
                    
Weighted average yield:  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
State and political subdivisions (1)
 % 4.21% 3.68% 4.46%   
 1.96% 2.43% 3.05%  
(1)Yields on tax-exempt obligations have been computed on a tax-equivalent basis using an incremental federal income tax rate of 3521 percent, the rate effective as of January 1, 2018, and are adjusted to reflect the effect of the nondeductible interest expense associated with owning tax-exempt investment securities.

Generally, management obtainsManagement’s process for obtaining and validating the fair value of investment securities atis discussed in Note 17 to the endconsolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of each reporting period via a third-party pricing service. Management, with the assistance of an independent investment advisory firm, reviewed the valuation process used by the third party and believes that process is valid. On a quarterly basis, management corroborates the fair values of investment securities by obtaining pricing from an independent investment advisory firm and comparing the two sets of fair values. Any significant variances are reviewed and investigated. In addition, the Company has a practice of further testing the fair values by selecting a sample of investment securities from each category of securities. For that sample, the prices were further validated by management, with assistance from an independent investment advisory firm, by obtaining details of the inputs used by the pricing service. Those inputs were independently tested, and we concluded the fair values were consistent with GAAP and investment securities were properly classified in the fair value hierarchy.this Form 10-K.

As of December 31, 2015,2017, the existing gross unrealized losses of $2,955$5,062 were considered to be temporary in nature due to market interest rate fluctuations, not reduced estimated cash flows, and theflows. The Company has the ability and the intent to hold the related securities with unrealized losses for a period of time sufficient to allow for a recovery, which may be at maturity. However, management may decide to sell securities with unrealized losses at a future date for liquidity purposes, to manage interest rate risk or to enhance interest income.


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In September 2014, the Company reclassified 86 state and political subdivision securities with total amortized cost and fair value of $50,882 and $51,371, respectively, to the held to maturity classification. The Company decided it was prudent to reclassify approximately half of the state and political subdivision securities to the held to maturity designation as the Company has the ability and intent to hold these securities until their maturity dates, which range from 2020 to 2034. By establishing a "held to maturity" investment securities portfolio, any future decline in market value of the securities in this portfolio will not adversely impact stockholders' equity and book value per share.

As of December 31, 2015,2017, approximately 7360 percent of the available for sale investment securities portfolio consisted of government agency guaranteed collateralized mortgage obligations, mortgage-backed securities and mortgage-backedasset-backed securities. In the current low interest rate environment, boththose securities provide relatively good yields, have little to no credit risk and provide fairly consistent cash flows. CollateralizedAll collateralized mortgage obligations and mortgage-backed securities consist of residential mortgage pass-through securities guaranteed by the Government NationalFederal Home Loan Mortgage Association (GNMA)Corporation (FHLMC) or issued by the Federal National Mortgage Association (FNMA) and, real estate mortgage investment conduits guaranteed by FNMA, FHLMC or Government National Mortgage Association (GNMA), and commercial mortgage pass-through securities guaranteed by the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (FHLMC) or GNMA.Small Business Administration (SBA). Pass-through asset-backed securities are guaranteed by the SBA and represent participating interests in pools of long-term debentures issued by state and local development companies certified by the SBA. The debt obligations were all within the credit ratings acceptable under West Bank'sBank’s investment policy.

Approximately 45 percent of the securities issued by state and political subdivisions involve governmental entities within the state of Iowa. The remaining securities issued by state and political subdivisions were issued by government entitiesdiversified in 17 other states with similar credit risks.

25 states. As of December 31, 20152017, the Company did not have securities from a single issuer, except for the United States government or its agencies, that exceeded 10 percent of consolidated stockholders'stockholders’ equity.

LOAN PORTFOLIO

Types of Loans

The following table sets forth the composition of the Company'sCompany’s loan portfolio by segment as of the dates indicated.
As of December 31As of December 31
2015 2014 2013 2012 20112017 2016 2015 2014 2013
Commercial$349,051
 $316,908
 $258,010
 $282,124
 $255,702
$347,482
 $334,014
 $349,051
 $316,908
 $258,010
Real estate:   
  
  
  
   
  
  
  
Construction, land and land development174,602
 154,490
 117,394
 121,911
 101,607
207,451
 205,610
 174,602
 154,490
 117,394
1-4 family residential first mortgages51,370
 53,497
 50,349
 49,280
 63,218
51,044
 47,184
 51,370
 53,497
 50,349
Home equity21,749
 24,500
 25,205
 25,536
 26,423
13,811
 18,057
 21,749
 24,500
 25,205
Commercial644,176
 625,938
 532,139
 441,857
 386,137
886,114
 788,000
 644,176
 625,938
 532,139
Consumer and other loans6,801
 9,318
 9,236
 7,099
 6,155
Consumer and other6,363
 8,355
 6,801
 9,318
 9,236
Total loans1,247,749
 1,184,651
 992,333
 927,807
 839,242
1,512,265
 1,401,220
 1,247,749
 1,184,651
 992,333
Deferred loan fees, net(1,061) (606) (613) (406) (283)(1,765) (1,350) (1,061) (606) (613)
Total loans, net of deferred fees$1,246,688
 $1,184,045
 $991,720
 $927,401
 $838,959
$1,510,500
 $1,399,870
 $1,246,688
 $1,184,045
 $991,720

As of December 31, 20152017, total loans were approximately 8783 percent of total deposits and 71 percent of total assets.  As of December 31, 20152017, the majority of all loans were originated directly by West Bank to borrowers within West Bank'sBank’s principal market areas.  There were $7,697 of purchased participation loans outstanding to four non-U.S. public companies who are listed on U.S. stock exchanges as of December 31, 2015.

Loans outstanding at the end of 20152017 increased approximately five7.9 percent compared to the end of 20142016. The growth was primarily in the commercial and commercial real estate and construction and land development segments. Management believes the growth was the result of some improvement in our local economies, continued growth from the Rochester, Minnesota, location and the Company'sCompany’s overall business development efforts. The openingefforts in all of the Rochester location in March 2013 and the addition of its experienced lenders have produced loan balances in that market of $87,220 as of December 31, 2015, an increase of $35,880 compared to loan balances outstanding as of December 31, 2014.our operating markets. Management believes the business development efforts are strong in all three of our markets,throughout the organization, and additional growth is expected in 2016.2018.


43

(dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)



For a description of the loan segments, see Note 4 to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of this Form 10-K. The interest rates charged on loans vary with the degree of risk and the amount and terms of the loan. Competitive pressures, the creditworthiness of the borrower, market interest rates, the availability of funds, and government regulation further influence the rate charged on a loan.

The Company follows a loan policy approved by West Bank'sBank’s Board of Directors. The loan policy is reviewed at least annually and is updated as considered necessary. The policy establishes lending limits, review criteria and other guidelines for loan administration and the allowance for loan losses, among other things. Loans are approved by West Bank'sBank’s Board of Directors and/or designated officers in accordance with the applicable guidelines and underwriting policies. Loans to any one borrower are limited by state banking laws. Loan officer lending authorities vary according to the individual loan officer'sofficer’s experience and expertise.

45

(dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)



Within the commercial real estate category, concentrations in excess of 10 percent of total loans outstanding at December 31, 20152017 included approximately $181,000$213,000 of loans for medical-related facilities and approximately $122,000 of loans secured by multifamily residential properties.facilities.

Maturities of Loans

The contractual maturities of the Company'sCompany’s loan portfolio are as shown in the following tables.  Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because individual borrowers may have the right to prepay loans with or without prepayment penalties.
Loans as of December 31, 2015 
Within one
year
 
After one but
within five
years
 
After five
years
 Total
Loans as of December 31, 2017 
Within one
year
 
After one but
within five
years
 
After five
years
 Total
Commercial $151,526
 $144,423
 $53,102
 $349,051
 $143,275
 $159,904
 $44,303
 $347,482
Real estate:        
        
Construction, land and land development 98,435
 52,296
 23,871
 174,602
 100,966
 78,953
 27,532
 207,451
1-4 family residential first mortgages 6,132
 39,673
 5,565
 51,370
 6,295
 38,758
 5,991
 51,044
Home equity 7,559
 13,850
 340
 21,749
 4,809
 8,925
 77
 13,811
Commercial 24,069
 426,003
 194,104
 644,176
 66,438
 394,716
 424,960
 886,114
Consumer and other loans 2,663
 3,928
 210
 6,801
Consumer and other 2,474
 3,871
 18
 6,363
Total loans $290,384
 $680,173
 $277,192
 $1,247,749
 $324,257
 $685,127
 $502,881
 $1,512,265
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
   
After one but
within five
years
 
After five
years
  
   
After one but
within five
years
 
After five
years
  
Loan maturities after one year with:    
  
  
    
  
  
Fixed rates   $589,032
 $176,613
  
   $551,093
 $314,153
  
Variable rates   91,141
 100,579
  
   134,034
 188,728
  
   $680,173
 $277,192
  
   $685,127
 $502,881
  

44

(dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)



Risk Elements

The following table sets forth the amount of nonperforming assets held by the Company and common ratio measurements of those assets as of the dates indicated.
Years Ended December 31Years Ended December 31
2015 2014 2013 2012 20112017 2016 2015 2014 2013
Nonaccrual loans$1,381
 $1,561
 $2,398
 $6,400
 $8,572
$622
 $1,022
 $1,381
 $1,561
 $2,398
Loans past due 90 days and still accruing interest
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
Troubled debt restructured loans (1)
80
 376
 517
 856
 2,121

 
 80
 376
 517
Total nonperforming loans1,461
 1,937
 2,915
 7,256
 10,693
622
 1,022
 1,461
 1,937
 2,915
Other real estate owned
 2,235
 5,800
 8,304
 10,967

 
 
 2,235
 5,800
Nonaccrual investment securities
 
 1,850
 1,334
 1,245

 
 
 
 1,850
Total nonperforming assets$1,461
 $4,172
 $10,565
 $16,894
 $22,905
$622
 $1,022
 $1,461
 $4,172
 $10,565
                  
Nonperforming loans to total loans0.12% 0.16% 0.29% 0.78% 1.27%0.04% 0.07% 0.12% 0.16% 0.29%
Nonperforming assets to total assets0.08% 0.26% 0.73% 1.17% 1.80%0.03% 0.06% 0.08% 0.26% 0.73%
(1)While TDR loans are commonly reported by the industry as nonperforming, those not classified in the nonaccrual category are accruing interest due to payment performance. TDR loans on nonaccrual status, if any, are included in the nonaccrual category.

Credit quality of the Company'sCompany’s assets remains strong, as nonperforming assets continued to decline during 2015.2017. The Company'sCompany’s Texas ratio, which is computed by dividing nonperforming assets by tangible common equity plus the allowance for loan losses, was 0.870.32 percent as of December 31, 2015, an improvement from 2.712017, compared to 0.56 percent as of December 31, 2014. The 65.0 percent decline2016.


46

(dollars in nonperforming assets since the end of 2014 is the result of continued devotion of resources to collection and disposal of these assets. In December 2015, the Company sold the single remaining property in other real estate owned that was recorded at $2,235. The sale resulted in a loss of $8.thousands, except per share amounts)



The accrual of interest on past due and other impaired loans is generally discontinued when loan payments are 90 days past due 90 days or when, in the opinion of management, the borrower may be unable to make all payments as they become due.pursuant to contractual terms.  Interest income is subsequently recognized only to the extent cash payments are received.  Generally, all payments received while a loan is on nonaccrual status are applied to the principal balance of the loan. For the years ended December 31, 20152017, 20142016 and 20132015, interest income that would have been recorded during the nonaccrual period under the original terms of such loans was approximately $47, $72 and $128, $136 and $333, respectively. A loan may beLoans are returned to accrual status when all principal and interest amounts contractually due are brought current and it is reasonable to expect continued payment performance.future payments are reasonably assured. In certain cases, interest may continue to accrue on loans past due more than 90 days when the value of the collateral is sufficient to cover both the principal amount of the loan and accrued interest and the loan is in the process of collection.

A loan is consideredclassified as a TDR loan when the interest rateCompany separately concludes that a borrower is reduced belowexperiencing financial difficulties and a concession is granted that would not have otherwise been considered. Concessions may include restructuring of a newthe loan with comparable risk orterms to alleviate the term is extendedburden of the borrower’s cash requirements, such as an extension of the payment terms beyond the original maturity date andor a change in the borrower is considered to be experiencing financial difficulties.interest rate charged. The payment history of the borrower, along with a current analysis of its cash flows, is used to determine the restructured terms. Underwriting procedures are similar to those of new loan originations and renewals of performing loans in that current financial information is obtained and analyzed. A current assessment of collateral is performed. The approval process for TDR loans is the same as that for new loans. The TDR loans with extended terms are accounted for as impaired until ongoing performance is established.  AnyA change to the interest rate would change the classification of a loan to a TDR loan if the restructured loan yields a rate that is below a market rate for that of a new loan with an interest rate concession remains in TDR status until paid off. Interest income oncomparable risk. TDR loans is recognized pursuant to the revised terms of the loan agreement.  Awith below-market rates are considered impaired until fully collected. TDR loanloans may also be reported in theas nonaccrual categoryor 90 days past due if it isthey are not performing in accordance with its revisedper the restructured terms.

Interest income on other impaired loans is based upon the terms of the underlying loan agreement.  However, the recorded net investment in impaired loans, including accrued interest, is limited to the present value of the expected cash flows of the impaired loan or the observable fair market value of the loan'sloan’s collateral. The average balance of all impaired loans during 20152017 was approximately $2,435.$797.  Interest income recognized on impaired loans in 20152017, 20142016 and 20132015 was approximately $19, $105$10, $1 and $347,$19, respectively.


45

(dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)



As of December 31, 2015,2017, West Bank had identified approximately $1,805$10,078 in loans to onethree commercial customerand commercial real estate customers as potential problem loans. The Small Business Administration guarantees approximately $435$504 of these loans, and none of these loans werewas in default at the end of the year. It is not now possible to predict the degree of problems these loans may develop. However, West Bank is closely monitoring each loan.

SUMMARY OF THE ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN LOSSES

The provision for loan losses represents charges made to earnings to maintain an adequate allowance for loan losses.  The adequacy of the allowance for loan losses is evaluated quarterly by management and reviewed by the Board of Directors.  The allowance for loan losses is management'smanagement’s best estimate of probable losses inherent in the loan portfolio as of the balance sheet date.  

Factors considered in establishing an appropriate allowance include: an assessment of the borrower’s financial condition of the borrower;condition; the value and adequacy of loan collateral; the condition of the local economy and the condition of theborrower’s specific industry of the borrower;industry; the levels and trends of loans by segment; and a review of delinquent and classified loans. The quarterly evaluation focuses on factors such as specific loan reviews, changes in the components of the loan portfolio given the current and forecasted economic conditions, and historical loss experience.  Any one of the following conditions may result in the review of a specific loan: concern about whether the customer'scustomer’s cash flow or net worth is sufficient to repay the loan; delinquency status; criticism of the loan in a regulatory examination; the suspension of interest accrual; or other factors, including whether the loan has other special or unusual characteristics that suggest special monitoring is warranted. The Company'sCompany’s concentration risks include geographic concentration in central and eastern Iowa and southeastern Minnesota. The local economies are composed primarily of service industries and state and county governments.

West Bank has a significant portion of its loan portfolio in commercial real estate loans, commercial lines of credit, commercial term loans, and construction and land development loans.  West Bank'sBank’s typical commercial borrower is a small- or medium-sized, privately owned business entity.  West Bank'sCompared to residential mortgages or consumer loans, commercial loans typically have greater credit risks than residential mortgage or consumer loans because they often have larger balances and repayment usually depends on the borrowers'borrowers’ successful business operations.  Commercial loans also involve additional risks because they generally are not fully repaid over the loan period and, thus, may require refinancing or a large payoff at maturity.  IfWhen the general economy turns downward, commercial borrowers may not be able to repay their loans, and the value of their assets, which are usually pledged as collateral, may decrease rapidly and significantly. 


47

(dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)



While management uses available information to recognize losses on loans, further reduction in the carrying amounts of loans may be necessary based on changes in circumstances, changes in the overall economy in the markets we currently serve, or later acquired information.  Identifiable sectors within the general economy are subject to additional volatility, which at any time may have a substantial impact on the loan portfolio.  In addition, regulatory agencies, as integral parts of their examination processes, periodically review the estimated losses on loans.credit quality of the loan portfolio and the level of the allowance for loan losses.  Such agencies may require West Bank to recognize additional losses based on such agencies'agencies’ review of information available to them at the time of their examinations.

46

(dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)



Change in the Allowance for Loan Losses

West Bank'sBank’s policy is to charge off loans when, in management'smanagement’s opinion, a loan or a portion of a loan is deemed uncollectible, although concerteduncollectible. Concerted efforts are made to maximize futuresubsequent recoveries.  The following table summarizes activity in the Company'sCompany’s allowance for loan losses by loan segment for the years indicated, including amounts of loans charged off, recoveries, additions to the allowance charged to income and related ratios.
 Analysis of the Allowance for Loan Losses for the Years Ended December 31
 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011
Balance at beginning of period$13,607
 $13,791
 $15,529
 $16,778
 $19,087
Charge-offs: 
  
  
  
  
Commercial408
 836
 742
 402
 2,976
Real estate: 
  
  
  
  
Construction, land and land development
 
 
 1,508
 2
1-4 family residential first mortgages23
 131
 116
 301
 946
Home equity2
 138
 119
 343
 97
Commercial
 112
 624
 5
 722
Consumer and other loans6
 
 33
 25
 21
 439
 1,217
 1,634
 2,584
 4,764
Recoveries: 
  
  
  
  
Commercial579
 116
 292
 354
 1,809
Real estate: 
  
  
  
  
Construction, land and land development250
 8
 42
 
 2
1-4 family residential first mortgages7
 45
 150
 98
 42
Home equity87
 99
 236
 22
 29
Commercial12
 11
 2
 206
 1
Consumer and other loans14
 4
 24
 30
 22
 949
 283
 746
 710
 1,905
Net charge-offs (recoveries)(510) 934
 888
 1,874
 2,859
Provision for loan losses charged to operations850
 750
 (850) 625
 550
Balance at end of period$14,967
 $13,607
 $13,791
 $15,529
 $16,778
Average loans outstanding$1,213,429
 $1,063,528
 $949,775
 $854,860
 $849,115
Ratio of net charge-offs (recoveries) during the         
period to average loans outstanding(0.04)% 0.09% 0.09% 0.22% 0.34%
Ratio of allowance for loan losses to         
average loans outstanding1.23 % 1.28% 1.45% 1.82% 1.98%
Ratio of allowance for loan losses to total         
loans at the end of period1.20 % 1.15% 1.39% 1.67% 2.00%

Approximately $536 of the recoveries in 2015 related to two customers. Loan charge-offs in 2015 included a commercial loan for $200 related to one customer.
 Analysis of the Allowance for Loan Losses for the Years Ended December 31
 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013
Balance at beginning of period$16,112
 $14,967
 $13,607
 $13,791
 $15,529
Charge-offs: 
  
  
  
  
Commercial(199) (125) (408) (836) (742)
Real estate: 
  
  
  
  
Construction, land and land development
 (141) 
 
 
1-4 family residential first mortgages
 (93) (23) (131) (116)
Home equity(176) 
 (2) (138) (119)
Commercial
 
 
 (112) (624)
Consumer and other
 (47) (6) 
 (33)
Total charge-offs(375) (406) (439) (1,217) (1,634)
Recoveries: 
  
  
  
  
Commercial232
 218
 579
 116
 292
Real estate: 
  
  
  
  
Construction, land and land development398
 217
 250
 8
 42
1-4 family residential first mortgages15
 59
 7
 45
 150
Home equity28
 36
 87
 99
 236
Commercial13
 13
 12
 11
 2
Consumer and other7
 8
 14
 4
 24
Total recoveries693
 551
 949
 283
 746
Net (charge-offs) recoveries318
 145
 510
 (934) (888)
Provision for loan losses charged to operations
 1,000
 850
 750
 (850)
Balance at end of period$16,430
 $16,112
 $14,967
 $13,607
 $13,791
Average loans outstanding$1,443,885
 $1,336,156
 $1,213,429
 $1,063,528
 $949,775
Ratio of net (charge-offs) recoveries during the         
period to average loans outstanding0.02% 0.01% 0.04% (0.09)% (0.09)%
Ratio of allowance for loan losses to         
average loans outstanding1.14% 1.21% 1.23% 1.28 % 1.45 %
Ratio of allowance for loan losses to total         
loans at the end of period1.09% 1.15% 1.20% 1.15 % 1.39 %



4748

(dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)



Breakdown of Allowance for Loan Losses by Category

The following table sets forth information concerning the Company'sCompany’s allocation of the allowance for loan losses by segment as of the dates indicated.
As of December 31As of December 31
2015 2014 2013 2012 20112017 2016 2015 2014 2013
Amount %* Amount %* Amount %* Amount %* Amount %*Amount %* Amount %* Amount %* Amount %* Amount %*
Balance at end of                                      
period applicable to:   
    
    
    
    
   
    
    
    
    
Commercial$4,369
 27.97% $4,415
 26.75% $4,199
 26.00% $4,116
 30.41% $4,409
 30.47%$3,866
 22.98% $3,881
 23.84% $4,369
 27.97% $4,415
 26.75% $4,199
 26.00%
Real estate:     
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
     
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
Construction, land                                      
and land development2,338
 13.99% 2,151
 13.04% 3,032
 11.83% 4,616
 13.14% 3,572
 12.11%2,213
 13.72% 2,639
 14.67% 2,338
 13.99% 2,151
 13.04% 3,032
 11.83%
1-4 family residential                                      
first mortgages508
 4.12% 466
 4.51% 613
 5.07% 637
 5.31% 1,215
 7.53%319
 3.38% 317
 3.37% 508
 4.12% 466
 4.51% 613
 5.07%
Home equity481
 1.74% 534
 2.07% 403
 2.54% 568
 2.75% 832
 3.15%186
 0.91% 478
 1.29% 481
 1.74% 534
 2.07% 403
 2.54%
Commercial7,254
 51.63% 6,013
 52.84% 5,485
 53.63% 5,564
 47.62% 6,667
 46.01%9,770
 58.59% 8,697
 56.23% 7,254
 51.63% 6,013
 52.84% 5,485
 53.63%
Consumer and other loans17
 0.55% 28
 0.79% 59
 0.93% 28
 0.77% 83
 0.73%
Consumer and other76
 0.42% 100
 0.60% 17
 0.55% 28
 0.79% 59
 0.93%
$14,967
 100.00% $13,607
 100.00% $13,791
 100.00% $15,529
 100.00% $16,778
 100.00%$16,430
 100.00% $16,112
 100.00% $14,967
 100.00% $13,607
 100.00% $13,791
 100.00%
* Percent of loans in each category to total loans.

The allocation of the allowance for loan losses is dependent upon the change in balances outstanding in the various categories; the historical net loss experience by category, which can vary over time; specific reserves for loans considered impaired; and management'smanagement’s assessment of economic factors that may influence potential losses in the loan portfolio. PriorGrowth in the U.S. economy appears to 2013,have continued during the historical experience factor was calculated using a rolling 12-quarter average. Inlast three quarters of 2017. Average monthly job growth in the fourthlast quarter of 2013,2017 was approximately 200,000, while the calculation was modifiednational unemployment rate declined slightly to 4.1 percent as of December 2017. Activity in the housing market continued at a moderate pace. Interest rates are expected to continue to gradually rise. The economic environments in Iowa and Minnesota continued to improve. Based on the current economic indicators, the Company decided to maintain the economic factors within the allowance for loan losses at the same levels used in 2016. The Company continued to use an experience factorfactors based on the highest losses calculated over a rolling 12, 1612-, 16- or 20 quarter20-quarter period. Management believes that using the highest of these time periods will self-selectselect the factor that best represents where we are in the economic cycle. For instance, if the economy worsens, the more recent activity should be more representative of the current environment. As the economy improves, the averages over a longer period of time should be more representative. As the experienceExperience factors continuecontinued to decline management has increased the factors for other considerations during 2015 for commercial, commercial real estate, 1-4 family residential first mortgages, and construction, land and land developmentin 2017 in all loan segments except home equity loans, to maintain an adequate allowance for loan losses. This increased thewhich experienced a charge-off in 2017.

The portion of the allowance for loan losses related to loans collectively evaluated for impairment increased $682 to 1.16 percenta total of loans collectively evaluated as of December 31, 2015 from 1.09$16,291, or 1.08 percent, as of December 31, 2014. Using this methodology,2017 compared to $15,609, or 1.11 percent, as of December 31, 2016. Based upon the quarterly evaluations, management determined ano provision for loan losses of $850 was required for the year ended December 31, 2015. The2017, as recoveries on previously charged off loans exceeded current year charge-offs and were sufficient to increase in the allowance for loan losses was primarily due to a level deemed appropriate in relation to 2017 loan growth and increased factors for other considerations, as described above.credit quality. Management believes the resulting allowance for loan losses as of December 31, 20152017 was adequate to absorb the losses inherent in the loan portfolio.

Additional details on the allowance for loan losses is included in Note 4 to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of this Form 10-K.


4849

(dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)



DEPOSITS

Deposits totaled $1,440,7291,810,813 as of December 31, 20152017, which was 13.417.1 percent higher than the total as of December 31, 2014. Approximately $27,000 of the increase was due to an2016. The increase in deposits of a significant deposit relationship with a related party. As of December 31, 2015, this significant deposit relationship maintained total deposit balances of approximately $157,000. The increases in noninterest-bearing demand, interest-bearing demand and savings account balances werewas due to the combination of business development efforts and normal fluctuations as corporate customers'and municipal customers’ liquidity needs vary at any given time. West Bank continues to offer the Insured Cash Sweep (ICS) interest-bearing checking and money market products, which is a reciprocal program providing FDIC insurance coverage for all participating deposits. As of December 31, 2017, a significant related party relationship maintained total deposit balances with West Bank of approximately $172,000.

The volume of time deposits continued to drift lowergrew during 20152017, as interest rates remained at historic low levelsincreased and fewercertain customers were willingmoved balances from money market accounts to lockhigher interest rate time deposits, primarily in low rates for extended time periods. West Bank continues to offer the Certificate of Deposit Account Registry Service (CDARS) program, which made up approximately 37.3 percent of total time deposits at December 31, 2015.program. The CDARS program is also a reciprocal program providing FDIC insurance coverage for all participating deposits. CDARS time deposits made up approximately 59 percent of total time deposits at December 31, 2017.

Approximately 7179 percent of the total time deposits issued by West Bank mature in the next year. It is anticipated that a significant portion of these time deposits will be renewed, even though time deposits are not considered an attractive investment option for some segments of our customer base in the current low interest rate environment. Interest rates offered on certain time deposits were increased in mid-December 2015 in conjunction with the Federal Reserve's increase in the targeted federal funds rate.renewed. In the event a substantial volume of time deposits areis not renewed, management believes the Company has sufficient liquid assets and borrowing lines to fund the potential runoff.

The following table shows the amounts and remaining maturities of time certificates of deposit with balances of $100 or more as of December 31, 20152017.
3 months or less$23,427
$18,597
Over 3 through 6 months13,865
59,391
Over 6 through 12 months17,124
32,642
Over 12 months15,832
20,594
$70,248
$131,224
The following table sets forth the average balances for each major category of deposits and the weighted average interest rate paid for those deposits during the years indicated.
Years ended December 31Years ended December 31
2015 2014 20132017 2016 2015
Average Average Average Average Average AverageAverage Average Average Average Average Average
Balance Rate Balance Rate Balance RateBalance Rate Balance Rate Balance Rate
Noninterest-bearing demand$420,842
 
 $336,456
 
 $312,648
 
$412,078
 
 $473,380
 
 $420,842
 
Interest-bearing demand: 
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
Reward Me checking82,583
 0.30% 77,178
 0.35% 80,667
 0.68%59,797
 0.26% 78,219
 0.29% 82,583
 0.30%
Insured cash sweep76,181
 0.23% 75,720
 0.23% 14,395
 0.27%74,730
 0.28% 77,489
 0.27% 76,181
 0.23%
Other interest-bearing demand84,065
 0.05% 77,452
 0.05% 73,742
 0.08%188,946
 0.18% 95,171
 0.07% 84,065
 0.05%
Money market:                      
Insured cash sweep130,339
 0.23% 141,912
 0.24% 122,031
 0.26%181,203
 0.78% 143,869
 0.32% 130,339
 0.23%
Other money market376,226
 0.14% 290,212
 0.13% 297,530
 0.20%463,925
 0.85% 435,996
 0.37% 376,226
 0.14%
Savings76,377
 0.04% 73,528
 0.05% 62,201
 0.09%98,563
 0.12% 87,030
 0.05% 76,377
 0.04%
Time deposits128,899
 0.65% 150,378
 0.80% 168,050
 1.07%
Time147,232
 0.99% 110,407
 0.71% 128,899
 0.65%
$1,375,512
  
 $1,222,836
  
 $1,131,264
  
$1,626,474
  
 $1,501,561
  
 $1,375,512
  
Management anticipates the average interest rates on money market deposits in 2018 will be higher than the average rates paid in 2017 because of interest rate increases made by the Company during 2017 and the sensitivity of certain money market accounts to changes in the targeted federal funds rates. Management does not expect interest rates on interest-bearing demand, savings and time deposits in 20162018 to be significantly different from the average rates paid in 2015,2017, unless the Federal Reserve significantly increases the targeted federal funds rate.market factors would dictate an increase.


4950

(dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)



BORROWED FUNDS

The following table summarizes the outstanding principal balances, net of any discount or debt issuance costs, and the weighted average rate for each category of borrowed funds as of the dates indicated.
 As of December 31
 2015 2014 2013
 Balance Rate Balance Rate Balance Rate
Subordinated notes$20,619
 3.72% $20,619
 3.39% $20,619
 3.41%
FHLB advances, net of discount98,385
 3.35% 96,888
 2.90% 95,392
 2.52%
Long-term debt8,415
 2.15% 12,676
 2.08% 15,935
 2.11%
Short-term borrowings19,000
 0.34% 66,000
 0.28% 
 
Federal funds purchased2,760
 0.12% 2,975
 0.12% 16,622
 0.26%
 $149,179
 2.89% $199,158
 1.99% $148,568
 2.35%
 As of December 31
 2017 2016 2015
 Balance Rate Balance Rate Balance Rate
Federal funds purchased$545
 1.00% $9,690
 0.47% $21,760
 0.31%
Subordinated notes, net20,412
 4.81% 20,398
 4.11% 20,385
 3.72%
FHLB advances, net76,382
 4.22% 99,886
 3.56% 98,385
 3.35%
Long-term debt, net22,917
 3.34% 5,126
 2.48% 8,405
 2.15%
 $120,256
 4.14% $135,100
 3.38% $148,935
 2.89%
The following tables set forth the average principal balance, net of any discount or debt issuance costs, the average rate paid, and the maximum outstanding balance for each category of borrowed funds for the years indicated.
 Years Ended December 31
 2015 2014 2013
 
Average
Balance
 
Average
Rate
 
Average
Balance
 
Average
Rate
 
Average
Balance
 
Average
Rate
Subordinated notes$20,619
 3.42% $20,619
 3.65% $20,619
 3.45%
FHLB advances, net of discount97,615
 2.89% 96,113
 2.73% 94,601
 2.81%
Long-term debt10,658
 2.18% 14,196
 2.09% 8,522
 2.21%
Federal funds purchased and securities           
sold under agreements to repurchase4,915
 0.18% 6,013
 0.18% 53,137
 0.16%
Short-term borrowings12,886
 0.29% 13,713
 0.29% 1,240
 0.29%
 $146,693
 2.60% $150,654
 2.48% $178,119
 2.05%
 Years Ended December 31
 2017 2016 2015
 
Average
Balance
 
Average
Rate
 
Average
Balance
 
Average
Rate
 
Average
Balance
 
Average
Rate
Federal funds purchased$10,103
 0.98% $10,364
 0.46% $18,057
 0.26%
Subordinated notes, net20,405
 4.42% 20,391
 3.57% 20,378
 3.42%
FHLB advances, net99,656
 3.85% 99,114
 3.60% 97,615
 2.89%
Long-term debt, net16,413
 3.16% 6,666
 2.17% 10,643
 2.18%
 $146,577
 3.65% $136,535
 3.28% $146,693
 2.60%
 2015   2014   2013  
Maximum amount outstanding during           
the year:           
Subordinated notes$20,619
   $20,619
   $20,619
  
FHLB advances, net of discount98,385
   96,888
   95,392
  
Long-term debt12,676
   15,935
   16,765
  
Federal funds purchased and securities           
sold under agreements to repurchase16,530
   26,240
   75,762
  
Short-term borrowings72,000
   66,000
   38,000
  
 2017   2016   2015  
Maximum amount outstanding at any           
month-end during the year:           
Federal funds purchased$48,925
   $50,840
   $88,530
  
Subordinated notes, net20,412
   20,398
   20,385
  
FHLB advances, net101,255
   99,886
   98,385
  
Long-term debt, net25,483
   8,405
   12,656
  
During December 2012, $80,000 of the FHLB advances were modified and converted to variable rate advances tied to the three- month LIBOR. At the same time, forward-starting interest rate swaps were put in place to limit the Company's exposure to market interest rate increases. Two of the interest rate swaps were terminated in 2015. The third interest rate swap became effective in December 2015. The remaining $25,000 FHLB advance is callable on a quarterly basis. The FHLB advances have maturity dates of 2018 through 2020.

On June 27, 2013, the Company borrowed $16,000 in the form of a five-year amortizing secured term loan with a variable rate of 1.95 percent plus 30-day LIBOR. The proceeds were used to finance the 2013 repurchase and cancellation of 1,440,592 shares of common stock. Also occurring during June 2013 was the purchase of commercial lots in Coralville for a new eastern Iowa main office. A portion of the land purchase was financed with a $765 eight-and-one-half-year variable payment contract with a fixed interest rate of 1.25 percent. The decline in long-term debt includes $1,000 of prepayments in addition to the scheduled repayment terms of the agreements.

50

(dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)



The fluctuation in the balances of federal funds purchased and other short-term borrowings is dependent upon two factors. The first is the loan demand and investment strategyactivity of our downstream correspondent banks for federal funds purchased. The second is the fluctuationand in the Company'sCompany’s liquidity needs, which from time to time may require the Company to draw on the federal funds purchased lines with our upstream correspondent banks or on overnight FHLB advances. Depending on which has the lower interest rate, the Company may utilize either source of funding.

In October 2016, the Company entered into a forward-starting interest rate swap transaction with a notional amount of $20,000 to effectively convert its variable-rate subordinated notes to fixed-rate debt as of the forward-starting date. The forward-starting date of this swap is September 30, 2018.

During December 2012, $80,000 of the FHLB advances were modified and converted to variable-rate advances tied to the three- month LIBOR interest rate. To limit the Company’s exposure to market interest rate increases, an interest rate swap is in place on $30,000 of the variable-rate FHLB advances. This interest rate swap became effective in December 2015. The FHLB advances have maturity dates of 2019 through 2020.

On May 25, 2017, the Company entered into a credit agreement with a commercial bank and borrowed $25,000. This credit agreement replaced a prior credit agreement with the same commercial bank that had a remaining balance of $3,000. The additional borrowing was used to make a capital injection into the Company's subsidiary, West Bank. Principal and interest under the term note are payable quarterly over five years. Required quarterly principal payments are $625, with the balance due at maturity. The Company had no securities sold under agreements to repurchase asmay make additional principal payments without penalty. The interest rate is variable at 1.95 percent over the 30-day LIBOR rate.


51

(dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)



During June 2013, the ICS interest-bearing demand deposit product prior to the end of 2013. The ICS product provides customers with FDIC insurance coverage by reciprocating deposit balances throughcompany purchased commercial lots in Coralville for a network of participating banks and eliminates the investment security pledging requirements of repurchase agreements and administrationnew eastern Iowa main office. A portion of the product.land purchase was financed with a $765, nine year variable-payment contract with a fixed interest rate of 1.25 percent.

OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS

In the normal course of business, West Bank commits to extend credit in the form of loan commitments and standby letters of credit in order to meet the financing needs of its customers.  These commitments expose West Bank to varying degrees of credit and market risks in excess of the amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheets and are subject to the same credit policies as are loans recorded on the balance sheets.

West Bank'sBank’s exposure to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by the other party to the financial instrument for commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit is represented by the contractual amount of those instruments.  West Bank uses the same credit policies in making commitments and conditional obligations as it does for on-balance sheet instruments.  Commitments to lend are subject to borrowers’ continuing compliance with existing credit agreements. Management of the Company does not expect any significant losses as a result of these commitments. Off-balance sheet commitments are more fully discussed in Note 1716 to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of this Form 10-K.

CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS

The following table sets forth the balance of the Company’s contractual obligations of the Company by maturity period as of December 31, 2015.2017.
  Payments due by period  Payments due by period
Total 
Less than
one year
 
One to
three years
 
Three to
five years
 
More than
five years
Total 
Less than
one year
 
One to
three years
 
Three to
five years
 
More than
five years
Time deposits$115,807
 $82,377
 $28,403
 $5,027
 $
$169,657
 $133,323
 $27,149
 $9,185
 $
Federal funds purchased2,760
 2,760
 
 
 
545
 545
 
 
 
Short-term borrowings19,000
 19,000
 
 
 
Subordinated notes20,619
 
 
 
 20,619
20,619
 
 
 
 20,619
FHLB advances105,000
 
 25,000
 80,000
 
80,000
 
 80,000
 
 
Long-term debt8,415
 3,286
 4,826
 231
 72
22,917
 2,614
 5,231
 15,072
 
Noncancelable operating lease commitments14,824
 1,411
 2,800
 2,804
 7,809
12,899
 1,509
 3,094
 2,955
 5,341
Purchase commitments10,637
 10,637
 
 
 
Total$297,062
 $119,471
 $61,029
 $88,062
 $28,500
$306,637
 $137,991
 $115,474
 $27,212
 $25,960

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

The objective of liquidity management is to ensure the availability of sufficient cash flows to meet all financial commitments and to capitalize on opportunities for profitable business expansion.  The Company'sCompany’s principal source of funds is deposits.  Other sources include loan principal repayments, proceeds from the maturity and sale of investment securities, principal payments on collateralized mortgage obligations, mortgage-backed and mortgage-backedasset-backed securities, federal funds purchased, advances from the FHLB, and funds provided by operations.  Liquidity management is conducted on both a daily and a long-term basis.  Investments in liquid assets are adjusted based on expected loan demand, projected loan and investment securities maturities and payments, expected deposit flows and the objectives set by West Bank'sBank’s asset-liability management policy.  The Company had liquid assets (cash and cash equivalents) of $72,651 at December 31, 2015, compared to $39,781 as of December 31, 2014.  Liquid assets fluctuate as the liquidity needs of corporate customers vary at any given time.

51

(dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)



As of December 31, 2015,2017, West Bank had additional borrowing capacity available from the FHLB of approximately $200,000.$384,000. In addition, West Bank had $67,000 in borrowing capacity available through unsecured federal funds lines of credit with correspondent banks. West Bank had no amounts outstanding under those federal funds lines as of December 31, 20152017.  Net cash from continuing operating activities contributed $31,04229,357, $26,287$30,298 and $23,391$31,197 to liquidity for the years ended December 31, 20152017, 20142016 and 20132015, respectively.  The combination of high levels of potentially liquid assets, cash flows from operations and additional borrowing capacity provided the Company with strongsufficient liquidity as of December 31, 20152017.

As of December 31, 2015, the Company had a commitmentThe Company’s total stockholders’ equity increased to purchase a building that it had previously leased for the operations of one of its branches. The purchase was completed in February 2016. The Company has also begun construction on a new office in Rochester, Minnesota. Total commitments for these facilities were $10,637$178,098 as of December 31, 2015.

The Company's total stockholders' equity increased to $152,3772017 from $165,376 as of December 31, 2015, from $140,175 as of December 31, 2014.2016. The increase was primarily the result of net income less dividends paid and a decrease in accumulated other comprehensive income.paid. At December 31, 2015,2017, tangible common equity as a percent of tangible assets was 8.718.42 percent compared to 8.688.92 percent as of December 31, 2014.2016.

On April 22, 2015, the Board
52

(dollars in privately negotiated transactions. The extent to which the shares are repurchased and the timing of such repurchase will depend on market conditions and other corporate considerations. The current authorization of the stock repurchase plan expires on April 22, 2016. No shares had been repurchased under this authorization as of December 31, 2015.thousands, except per share amounts)



The Company and West Bank are subject to various regulatory capital requirements administered by federal and state banking agencies. In July 2013,Capital requirements are more fully discussed under the Federal Reserve Boardheading “Supervision and the FDIC issued final rules implementing the Basel III regulatory capital frameworkRegulation” included in Item 1 and related Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act changes. The rules revised minimum capital requirements and adjusted prompt corrective action thresholds. The final rules revisedin Note 15 to the regulatory capital elements, added a new common equity Tier 1 capital ratio, and increased the minimum Tier 1 capital ratio requirement. The rules also permitted certain banking organizations to retain, through a one-time election, the existing treatment for accumulated other comprehensive income and implemented a new capital conservation buffer. The final rules were effective for community banks on January 1, 2015, subject to a transition period for certain parts of the rules. The Company and West Bank made the election to retain the existing treatment, which excludes accumulated other comprehensive income from regulatory capital amounts. As of December 31, 2015, the capital requirements included maintaining total capital to risk-weighted assets of at least 8.00 percent, Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets of at least 6.00 percent, Common Equity Tier 1 Capital to risk-weighted assets of at least 4.50 percent and a Tier 1 leverage ratio of at least 4.00 percent. Failure to meet minimum capital requirements can result in certain mandatory and possibly additional discretionary actions by regulators, which if undertaken, could have a direct material effect on the Company's consolidated financial statements. Asstatements included in Item 8 of December 31, 2015, the Company had a total risk-based capital ratio of 12.12 percent, a Tier 1 capital ratio of 11.15 percent, a Common Equity Tier 1 Capital ratio of 9.86 percent and a Tier 1 leverage ratio of 9.91 percent. As of December 31, 2015, West Bank had ratios of 11.32 percent, 10.35 percent, 10.35 percent and 9.20 percent, respectively. As these ratios indicate, thethis Form 10-K. The Company and West Bank met all capital adequacy requirements to which they were subject as of December 31, 20152017, and West Bank'sBank’s capital ratios were in excess of the requirements to be well-capitalized under prompt corrective action provisions.

Beginning in 2016, the additional capital conservation buffer will be added to the minimum requirements for capital adequacy purposes, subject to a three year phase-in period. The capital conservation buffer will be fully phased-in on January 1, 2019 at 2.5 percent. A banking organization with a conservation buffer Also, as of less than 2.5 percent (or the required phase-in amount in years prior to 2019) will be subject to limitations on capital distributions, including dividend payments, and certain discretionary bonus payments to executive officers. At December 31, 2015,2017, the ratios for the Company and West Bank were sufficient to meet the fully phased-in capital conservation buffer.

INFLATION

The primary impact of inflation on the Company'sCompany’s operations is increased asset yields, deposit costs and operating overhead.  Unlike most industries, virtually all the assets and liabilities of a financial institution are monetary in nature.  As a result, interest rates generally have a more significant impact on a financial institution'sinstitution’s performance than they would have on nonfinancial companies.  Although interest rates do not necessarily move in the same direction or to the same extent as the prices of goods and services, increases in inflation generally have resulted in increased interest rates.  The effects of inflation can magnify the growth of assets and, if significant, require that equity capital increase at a faster rate than otherwise would be necessary.

52

Table of Contents
(dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)



EFFECTS OF NEW STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL ACCOUNTING STANDARDS

A discussion of the effects of new financial accounting standards and developments as they relate to the Company is located in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of this Form 10-K.

ITEM 7A.  QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

The Company'sCompany’s market risk is composed primarily of interest rate risk arising from its core banking activities of lending and deposit taking.  Interest rate risk refers to the exposure arising from changes in interest rates.  Fluctuations in interest rates have a significant impact not only upon net income, but also upon the cash flows and market values of assets and liabilities. Our results of operations, like those of other financial institutions, are impacted by changes in interest rates and the interest rate sensitivity of our interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities. Management continually develops and applies strategies to mitigate this risk.  Management does not believe that the Company'sCompany’s primary market risk exposure and management of that exposure in 20152017 materially changed compared to 2014.2016.

The Company'sCompany’s objectives are to manage interest rate risk to foster consistent growth of earnings and capital.  It is our policy to maintain an acceptable level of interest rate risk over a range of possible changes in interest rates while remaining responsive to market demand for loan and deposit products.  To measure this risk, the Company uses a static gap measurement system that identifies the repricing gaps across the full maturity spectrum of the Company’s assets and liabilities, and an earnings simulation approach. 

The Company also maintains an Asset/Liability Committee which meets quarterly to review the interest rate sensitivity position and to review and develop various strategies for managing interest rate risk. Measuring and managing interest rate risk is a dynamic process that management performs with the objective of maximizing net interest margin while maintaining interest rate risk within acceptable tolerances. This process relies chiefly on the simulation of net interest income over multiple interest rate scenarios. The Company engages a third party which utilizes a modeling program to measure the Company’s exposure to potential interest rate changes.  For various assumed hypothetical changes in market interest rates, this analysis measures the estimated change in net interest income. The simulations allow for ongoing assessment of interest rate sensitivity and can include the impact of potential new business strategies. The modeled scenarios begin with a base case in which rates are unchanged and include parallel and nonparallel rate shocks. The results of these shocks are measured in two forms: first, the impact on the net interest margin and earnings over one and two year time frames; and second, the impact on the market value of equity. The results of the simulation are compared against approved policy limits.

The following table presents the estimated change in net interest income for one year under several scenarios of assumed interest rate changes for the rate shock levels shown. The net interest income in each scenario is based on parallel and permanent changes in the interest rates.
Scenario% Change
300 basis points rising4.180.48%
200 basis points rising2.450.49%
100 basis points rising0.800.36%
Base
100 basis points falling(0.42)%

53

Table of Contents
(dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)



As of December 31, 2015,2017, the estimated effect of an immediatea 300 basis point increase in interest rates couldwould be an increase of the Company'sCompany’s net interest income by approximately 4.180.48 percent, or $2,455$329 in 2016. The estimated effect of an immediate decrease in rates is not reasonably calculable due to the current historically low interest rate environment.2018. Because the majority of liabilities subject to interest rate movements in the short term are of the type that generally lag interest rate movements in the market, they do not change by the same magnitude in the short term as the change in market rates.

Computations of the prospective effects of hypothetical interest rate changes are based on numerous assumptions.  The assumptions used in our interest rate sensitivity simulation discussed above are inherently uncertain and, as a result, the simulations cannot precisely measure net interest income or precisely predict the impact of changes in interest rates on net interest income.  Actual values may differ from those projections set forth above due to timing, magnitude and frequency of interest rate changes as well as changes in market conditions.  Further, the computations do not contemplate any actions the Company may undertake in response to changes in interest rates.


53

Table of Contents
(dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)



Another measure of interest rate sensitivity is the gap ratio, which reflects the repricing characteristics of the Company’s assets and liabilities.  This ratio indicates the amount of interest-earning assets repricing within a given period in comparison to the amount of interest-bearing liabilities repricing within the same period of time.  A gap ratio of 1.0 indicates a matched position, in which case the effect on net interest income due to interest rate movements will be minimal.  A gap ratio of less than 1.0 indicates that more liabilities than assets reprice within the time period, and a ratio greater than 1.0 indicates that more assets reprice than liabilities.

The following table sets forth the estimated maturities, expected cash flows or repricing opportunities, and the resulting interest sensitivity gap of the Company'sCompany’s interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities and the cumulative interest sensitivity gap at December 31, 2015.2017.  The expected maturities are presented on a contractual basis or, if more relevant, are based on projected call dates.  Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because of prepayment assumptions and early withdrawal of deposits.
3 months
or less
 
Over 3
through 12
months
 
Over 1
through
5 years
 
Over
5 years
 Total
3 months
or less
 
Over 3
through 12
months
 
Over 1
through
5 years
 
Over
5 years
 Total
Interest-earning assets:                  
Federal funds sold$15,322
 $
 $
 $
 $15,322
$12,997
 $
 $
 $
 $12,997
Investment securities:                  
Securities available for sale16,426
 33,374
 136,502
 134,412
 320,714
82,495
 25,575
 105,327
 230,822
 444,219
Securities held to maturity
 
 277
 50,982
 51,259

 
 1,594
 43,933
 45,527
Federal Home Loan Bank stock12,447
 
 
 
 12,447
9,174
 
 
 
 9,174
Loans350,754
 129,146
 674,543
 92,245
 1,246,688
382,995
 222,533
 780,919
 124,053
 1,510,500
Total interest-earning assets394,949
 162,520
 811,322
 277,639
 1,646,430
487,661
 248,108
 887,840
 398,808
 2,022,417
Interest-bearing liabilities: 
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
Interest-bearing deposits: 
    
  
  
 
    
  
  
Savings, interest-bearing demand                  
and money markets838,215
 
 
 
 838,215
1,245,268
 
 
 
 1,245,268
Time32,609
 49,714
 33,484
 
 115,807
25,127
 108,196
 36,334
 
 169,657
Federal funds purchased2,760
 
 
 
 2,760
545
 
 
 
 545
Other short-term borrowings19,000
 
 
 
 19,000
Long-term borrowings74,545
 71
 52,731
 72
 127,419
90,893
 85
 28,733
 
 119,711
Total interest-bearing liabilities967,129
 49,785
 86,215
 72
 1,103,201
1,361,833
 108,281
 65,067
 
 1,535,181
Interest sensitivity gap per period$(572,180) $112,735
 $725,107
 $277,567
 $543,229
$(874,172) $139,827
 $822,773
 $398,808
 $487,236
Cumulative interest sensitivity gap$(572,180) $(459,445) $265,662
 $543,229
 $543,229
$(874,172) $(734,345) $88,428
 $487,236
 $487,236
Interest sensitivity gap ratio0.41
 3.26
 9.41
 3,856.10
 1.49
0.36
 2.29
 13.65
 N/A
 1.32
Cumulative interest sensitivity gap ratio0.41
 0.55
 1.24
 1.49
 1.49
0.36
 0.50
 1.06
 1.32
 1.32
As of December 31, 2015,2017, the Company'sCompany’s cumulative gap ratio for assets and liabilities repricing within one year was 0.55,0.50, meaning that the Company is liability sensitive over the cumulative 12-month period.  In other words, more interest-bearing liabilities will be subject to repricing within that time frame than interest-earning assets.  However, the majority of the interest-bearing liabilities subject to repricing within this time frame are savings, money market and interest-bearing demand deposits.  These types of deposits generally do not reprice as quickly or by the same magnitude as changes in other short-term interest rates.

54




ITEM 8.  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA




Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Stockholders and the Board of Directors and Stockholders
of West Bancorporation, Inc.


Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of West Bancorporation, Inc. and its subsidiary (the Company) as of December 31, 20152017 and 20142016, the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, stockholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2017, and the related notes to the consolidated financial statements (collectively, the financial statements).  In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2017, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission in 2013, and our report dated March 1, 2018 expressed an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission 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 assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud.  Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements.  Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements.  We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.





/s/ RSM US LLP
We have served as the Company’s auditor since 1998.

Des Moines, Iowa
March 1, 2018




Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Stockholders and the Board of Directors of West Bancorporation, Inc.

Opinion on the Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
We have audited West Bancorporation, Inc.’s (the Company) internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission in 2013. In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission in 2013.

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, and the consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, stockholders' equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2015.  These financial statements are2017, and the responsibility of the Company's management.  Our responsibility isrelated notes to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States).  Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement.  An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements.  An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.  We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of West Bancorporation, Inc. and subsidiary as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2015, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), West Bancorporation, Inc. and subsidiary's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2015, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission in 2013, and our report dated March 3, 2016,1, 2018 expressed an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of West Bancorporation, Inc. and subsidiary's internal control over financial reporting.opinion.

Basis for Opinion

/s/ RSM US LLP
Des Moines, Iowa
March 3, 2016


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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders
West Bancorporation, Inc.


We have audited West Bancorporation, Inc. and subsidiary's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2015, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission in 2013.  West Bancorporation, Inc. and subsidiary'sThe Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying Management'sManagements’ Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company'sCompany’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 U.S. federal securities 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 Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States).PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audit also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

Definition and Limitations of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
A company'scompany’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.  A company'scompany’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (a)(1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (b)(2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (c)(3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the company'scompany’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 effectiveness to 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 or procedures may deteriorate.

In our opinion, West Bancorporation, Inc. and subsidiary maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2015, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission in 2013.

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the balance sheets, statements of income, comprehensive income, stockholders' equity and cash flows of West Bancorporation, Inc. and subsidiary, and our report dated March 3, 2016, expressed an unqualified opinion.


/s/ RSM US LLP
Des Moines, Iowa
March 3, 20161, 2018


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West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary
Consolidated Balance Sheets
December 31, 2015 and 2014
(dollars in thousands) 2015 2014
ASSETS    
Cash and due from banks $57,329
 $27,936
Federal funds sold 15,322
 11,845
Cash and cash equivalents 72,651
 39,781
Investment securities available for sale, at fair value 320,714
 272,790
Investment securities held to maturity, at amortized cost (fair value of $51,918    
and $51,501 at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively) 51,259
 51,343
Federal Home Loan Bank stock, at cost 12,447
 15,075
Loans 1,246,688
 1,184,045
Allowance for loan losses (14,967) (13,607)
Loans, net 1,231,721
 1,170,438
Premises and equipment, net 11,562
 9,988
Accrued interest receivable 4,688
 4,425
Bank-owned life insurance 32,834
 32,107
Deferred tax assets, net 6,670
 6,333
Other assets 4,094
 13,553
Total assets $1,748,640
 $1,615,833
     
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY    
LIABILITIES    
Deposits:    
Noninterest-bearing demand $486,707
 $362,827
Interest-bearing demand 267,824
 241,722
Savings 570,391
 527,277
Time of $250,000 or more 14,749
 18,985
Other time 101,058
 119,651
Total deposits 1,440,729
 1,270,462
Federal funds purchased 2,760
 2,975
Short-term borrowings 19,000
 66,000
Subordinated notes 20,619
 20,619
Federal Home Loan Bank advances, net of discount 98,385
 96,888
Long-term debt 8,415
 12,676
Accrued expenses and other liabilities 6,355
 6,038
Total liabilities 1,596,263
 1,475,658
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Note 17)    
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY    
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value, authorized 50,000,000 shares; no shares issued and    
outstanding at December 31, 2015 and 2014 
 
Common stock, no par value; authorized 50,000,000 shares; 16,064,435 and    
16,018,734 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively 3,000
 3,000
Additional paid-in capital 20,067
 18,971
Retained earnings 129,740
 117,950
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (430) 254
Total stockholders' equity 152,377
 140,175
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $1,748,640
 $1,615,833

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

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West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary
Consolidated Statements of Income
Years Ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013

(dollars in thousands, except per share data) 2015 2014 2013
Interest income:      
Loans, including fees $52,556
 $47,440
 $44,992
Investment securities:      
Taxable 4,363
 4,938
 5,173
Tax-exempt 3,147
 2,878
 2,457
Federal funds sold 81
 45
 119
Total interest income 60,147
 55,301
 52,741
Interest expense:    
  
Deposits 2,185
 2,426
 3,413
Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase 9
 11
 85
Short-term borrowings 37
 40
 4
Subordinated notes 705
 754
 711
Federal Home Loan Bank advances 2,825
 2,628
 2,657
Long-term debt 232
 297
 188
Total interest expense 5,993
 6,156
 7,058
Net interest income 54,154
 49,145
 45,683
Provision for loan losses 850
 750
 (850)
Net interest income after provision for loan losses 53,304
 48,395
 46,533
Noninterest income:    
  
Service charges on deposit accounts 2,609
 2,790
 2,923
Debit card usage fees 1,830
 1,764
 1,787
Trust services 1,286
 1,327
 997
Revenue from residential mortgage banking 163
 1,394
 1,275
Increase in cash value of bank-owned life insurance 727
 731
 646
Gain (loss) on disposition of premises and equipment (6) 1,069
 (9)
Realized investment securities gains, net 47
 223
 
Other income 1,547
 998
 875
Total noninterest income 8,203
 10,296
 8,494
Noninterest expense:    
  
Salaries and employee benefits 16,065
 16,086
 15,757
Occupancy 4,105
 4,165
 3,906
Data processing 2,329
 2,241
 2,030
FDIC insurance 839
 757
 733
Other real estate owned 10
 1,865
 1,359
Professional fees 748
 944
 1,200
Director fees 881
 714
 584
Miscellaneous losses 30
 329
 736
Other expenses 5,061
 4,901
 4,511
Total noninterest expense 30,068
 32,002
 30,816
Income before income taxes 31,439
 26,689
 24,211
Income taxes 9,697
 6,649
 7,320
Net income $21,742
 $20,040
 $16,891
       
Basic earnings per common share $1.35
 $1.25
 $1.02
Diluted earnings per common share $1.35
 $1.25
 $1.02
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

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West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
Years Ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013
(dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013
Net income $21,742
 $20,040
 $16,891
Other comprehensive income (loss):      
Unrealized gains on securities for which a portion of an other than      
temporary impairment has been recorded in earnings:      
Unrealized holding gains arising during the period 
 1,828
 516
Less: reclassification adjustment for net loss realized in net income 
 493
 
Income tax (expense) 
 (882) (196)
Other comprehensive income on available for sale securities with      
other than temporary impairment 
 1,439
 320
Unrealized gains (losses) on securities without other than temporary      
impairment:    
  
Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising during the period (33) 8,201
 (13,488)
Less: reclassification adjustment for net (gains) realized in net income (47) (716) 
Less: reclassification adjustment for amortization of net unrealized gains      
on securities transferred from available for sale to held to maturity,      
realized in interest income (39) (13) 
Income tax (expense) benefit 45
 (2,839) 5,125
Other comprehensive income (loss) on available for sale securities      
without other than temporary impairment (74) 4,633
 (8,363)
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives arising during the period (1,144) (3,759) 4,159
Less: reclassification adjustment for net loss on derivatives realized in      
net income 89
 83
 
Less: reclassification adjustment for amortization of derivative      
termination costs 71
 
 
Income tax (expense) benefit 374
 1,396
 (1,580)
Other comprehensive income (loss) on derivatives (610) (2,280) 2,579
Total other comprehensive income (loss) (684) 3,792
 (5,464)
Comprehensive income $21,058
 $23,832
 $11,427
West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary
Consolidated Balance Sheets
December 31, 2017 and 2016
(dollars in thousands, except per share data) 2017 2016
ASSETS    
Cash and due from banks $34,952
 $40,943
Federal funds sold 12,997
 35,893
Cash and cash equivalents 47,949
 76,836
Investment securities available for sale, at fair value 444,219
 260,637
Investment securities held to maturity, at amortized cost (fair value of $45,890 and $47,789 at December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively) 45,527
 48,386
Federal Home Loan Bank stock, at cost 9,174
 10,771
Loans 1,510,500
 1,399,870
Allowance for loan losses (16,430) (16,112)
Loans, net 1,494,070
 1,383,758
Premises and equipment, net 23,022
 23,314
Accrued interest receivable 7,344
 5,321
Bank-owned life insurance 33,618
 33,111
Deferred tax assets, net 4,645
 6,957
Other assets 4,809
 5,113
Total assets $2,114,377
 $1,854,204
     
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY    
LIABILITIES    
Deposits:    
Noninterest-bearing demand $395,888
 $479,311
Interest-bearing demand 395,052
 282,592
Savings 850,216
 668,688
Time of $250 or more 16,965
 10,446
Other time 152,692
 105,568
Total deposits 1,810,813
 1,546,605
Federal funds purchased 545
 9,690
Subordinated notes, net 20,412
 20,398
Federal Home Loan Bank advances, net 76,382
 99,886
Long-term debt, net 22,917
 5,126
Accrued expenses and other liabilities 5,210
 7,123
Total liabilities 1,936,279
 1,688,828
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Note 16) 

 

STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY    
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value; authorized 50,000,000 shares; no shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2017 and 2016 
 
Common stock, no par value; authorized 50,000,000 shares; 16,215,672 and 16,137,999 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively 3,000
 3,000
Additional paid-in capital 23,463
 21,462
Retained earnings 153,527
 141,956
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (1,892) (1,042)
Total stockholders’ equity 178,098
 165,376
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $2,114,377
 $1,854,204

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.


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West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity
Years Ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013
            Accumulated  
        Additional   Other  
  Preferred Common Stock Paid-in Retained Comprehensive  
(in thousands, except share and per share data) Stock Shares Amount Capital Earnings Income (Loss) Total
Balance, December 31, 2012 $
 17,403,882
 $3,000
 $33,805
 $95,856
 $1,926
 $134,587
Net income 
 
 
 
 16,891
 
 16,891
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax 
 
 
 
 
 (5,464) (5,464)
Cash dividends declared, $0.42 per common share 
 
 
 
 (6,995) 
 (6,995)
Repurchase and cancellation of common stock 
 (1,440,592) 
 (15,774) 
 
 (15,774)
Stock-based compensation costs 
 
 
 378
 
 
 378
Issuance of common stock upon vesting of restricted             

stock units, net of shares withheld for payroll taxes 
 12,914
 
 (14) 
 
 (14)
Excess tax benefits from vesting of restricted stock units 
 
 
 16
 
 
 16
Balance, December 31, 2013 
 15,976,204
 3,000
 18,411
 105,752
 (3,538) 123,625
Net income 
 
 
 
 20,040
 
 20,040
Other comprehensive income, net of tax 
 
 
 
 
 3,792
 3,792
Cash dividends declared, $0.49 per common share 
 
 
 
 (7,842) 
 (7,842)
Stock-based compensation costs 
 
 
 633
 
 
 633
Issuance of common stock upon vesting of restricted             
stock units, net of shares withheld for payroll taxes 
 42,530
 
 (189) 
 
 (189)
Excess tax benefits from vesting of restricted stock units 
 
 
 116
 
 
 116
Balance, December 31, 2014 
 16,018,734
 3,000
 18,971
 117,950
 254
 140,175
Net income 
 
 
 
 21,742
 
 21,742
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax 
 
 
 
 
 (684) (684)
Cash dividends declared, $0.62 per common share 
 
 
 
 (9,952) 
 (9,952)
Stock-based compensation costs 
 
 
 1,166
 
 
 1,166
Issuance of common stock upon vesting of restricted              
stock units, net of shares withheld for payroll taxes 
 45,701
 
 (225) 
 
 (225)
Excess tax benefits from vesting of restricted stock units 
 
 
 155
 
 
 155
Balance, December 31, 2015 $
 16,064,435
 $3,000
 $20,067
 $129,740
 $(430) $152,377
West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary
Consolidated Statements of Income
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015

(dollars in thousands, except per share data) 2017 2016 2015
Interest income:      
Loans, including fees $63,242
 $57,419
 $52,556
Investment securities:      
Taxable 5,501
 4,201
 4,363
Tax-exempt 3,960
 3,266
 3,147
Federal funds sold 331
 108
 81
Total interest income 73,034
 64,994
 60,147
Interest expense:    
  
Deposits 7,622
 3,391
 2,185
Federal funds purchased 99
 47
 46
Subordinated notes 901
 728
 705
Federal Home Loan Bank advances 3,836
 3,565
 2,825
Long-term debt 519
 145
 232
Total interest expense 12,977
 7,876
 5,993
Net interest income 60,057
 57,118
 54,154
Provision for loan losses 
 1,000
 850
Net interest income after provision for loan losses 60,057
 56,118
 53,304
Noninterest income:    
  
Service charges on deposit accounts 2,632
 2,461
 2,609
Debit card usage fees 1,754
 1,825
 1,830
Trust services 1,705
 1,310
 1,286
Increase in cash value of bank-owned life insurance 652
 647
 727
Gain from bank-owned life insurance 307
 443
 
Realized investment securities gains, net 326
 66
 47
Other income 1,272
 1,230
 1,704
Total noninterest income 8,648
 7,982
 8,203
Noninterest expense:    
  
Salaries and employee benefits 17,633
 16,731
 16,065
Occupancy 4,406
 4,033
 4,105
Data processing 2,677
 2,510
 2,329
FDIC insurance 677
 937
 839
Professional fees 1,075
 774
 748
Director fees 950
 888
 881
Other expenses 4,849
 5,275
 5,101
Total noninterest expense 32,267
 31,148
 30,068
Income before income taxes 36,438
 32,952
 31,439
Income taxes 13,368
 9,936
 9,697
Net income $23,070
 $23,016
 $21,742
       
Basic earnings per common share $1.42
 $1.43
 $1.35
Diluted earnings per common share $1.41
 $1.42
 $1.35
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.


West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015
(dollars in thousands) 2017 2016 2015
Net income $23,070
 $23,016
 $21,742
Other comprehensive loss:      
Unrealized losses on securities:      
Unrealized holding losses arising during the period (1,124) (2,249) (33)
Less: reclassification adjustment for net gains realized in net income (326) (66) (47)
Less: reclassification adjustment for amortization of net unrealized gains on securities transferred from available for sale to held to maturity, realized in interest income (268) (128) (39)
Income tax benefit 653
 929
 45
Other comprehensive loss on available for sale securities (1,065) (1,514) (74)
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives:      
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives arising during the period (66) 882
 (1,144)
Less: reclassification adjustment for net loss on derivatives realized
   in net income
 304
 464
 89
Less: reclassification adjustment for amortization of derivative termination costs, realized in interest expense 109
 109
 71
Income tax (expense) benefit (132) (553) 374
Other comprehensive income (loss) on derivatives 215
 902
 (610)
Total other comprehensive loss (850) (612) (684)
Comprehensive income $22,220
 $22,404
 $21,058

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.


60



West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity

Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015
West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Years Ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013
(dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013
Cash Flows from Operating Activities:      
Net income $21,742
 $20,040
 $16,891
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by      
operating activities:      
Provision for loan losses 850
 750
 (850)
Net amortization and accretion 3,892
 3,767
 4,832
(Gain) loss on disposition of premises and equipment 6
 (1,069) 9
Investment securities gains, net (47) (223) 
Stock-based compensation 1,166
 633
 378
Gain on sale of loans held for sale (14) (1,247) (1,083)
Proceeds from sales of loans held for sale 840
 63,314
 94,676
Originations of loans held for sale 
 (60,663) (92,460)
(Gain) loss on sales of other real estate owned 8
 2
 (111)
Write-down of other real estate owned 
 1,786
 1,341
Increase in cash value of bank-owned life insurance (727) (731) (646)
Depreciation 921
 853
 786
Deferred income taxes 82
 535
 1,147
Excess tax benefits from vesting of restricted stock units (155) (116) (16)
Change in assets and liabilities:      
(Increase) in accrued interest receivable (263) (418) (355)
(Increase) decrease in other assets 2,937
 (450) 580
(Decrease) in accrued expenses and other liabilities (196) (476) (1,728)
Net cash provided by operating activities 31,042
 26,287
 23,391
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:    
  
Proceeds from sales of securities available for sale 16,946
 36,582
 
Proceeds from maturities and calls of securities available for sale 49,665
 56,450
 74,202
Purchases of securities available for sale (116,824) (67,770) (143,384)
Purchases of Federal Home Loan Bank stock (19,986) (29,064) (7,537)
Proceeds from redemption of Federal Home Loan Bank stock 22,614
 25,840
 7,475
Net increase in loans (62,133) (193,585) (65,436)
Proceeds from sales of other real estate owned 2,227
 2,103
 1,744
Proceeds from sales of premises and equipment 
 3,013
 
Purchases of premises and equipment (2,502) (5,298) (2,199)
Purchase of bank-owned life insurance 
 (5,000) 
Proceeds from settlement of other assets 3,593
 
 
Net cash used in investing activities (106,400) (176,729) (135,135)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:      
Net increase in deposits 170,267
 106,620
 29,266
Net (decrease) in federal funds purchased (215) (13,647) (38,974)
Net increase (decrease) in short-term borrowings (47,000) 66,000
 
Proceeds from long-term debt 
 
 16,000
Principal payments on long-term debt (4,261) (3,260) (830)
Interest rate swap termination costs paid (541) 
 
Common stock dividends paid (9,952) (7,842) (6,995)
Repurchase and cancellation of common stock 
 
 (15,774)
Restricted stock units withheld for payroll taxes (225) (189) (14)
Excess tax benefits from vesting of restricted stock units 155
 116
 16
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities 108,228
 147,798
 (17,305)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 32,870
 (2,644) (129,049)
Cash and Cash Equivalents:      
Beginning 39,781
 42,425
 171,474
Ending $72,651
 $39,781
 $42,425
       

61




West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (continued)
Years Ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013

(dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013
Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information:      
Cash payments for:      
Interest $6,069
 $6,166
 $7,101
Income taxes 6,700
 7,045
 6,755
       
Supplemental Disclosure of Noncash Investing and Financing Activities:      
Transfer of loans to other real estate owned $
 $394
 $179
Transfer of investment securities available for sale to investment      
securities held to maturity 
 50,882
 
Transfer of investment securities available for sale to other      
assets, sale not settled 
 3,593
 
Purchase of premises financed by issuance of long-term debt 
 
 765
            Accumulated  
        Additional   Other  
  Preferred Common Stock Paid-in Retained Comprehensive  
(in thousands, except share and per share data) Stock Shares Amount Capital Earnings Income (Loss) Total
Balance, December 31, 2014 $
 16,018,734
 $3,000
 $18,971
 $117,950
 $254
 $140,175
Net income 
 
 
 
 21,742
 
 21,742
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax 
 
 
 
 
 (684) (684)
Cash dividends declared, $0.62 per common share 
 
 
 
 (9,952) 
 (9,952)
Stock-based compensation costs 
 
 
 1,166
 
 
 1,166
Issuance of common stock upon vesting of restricted stock units, net of shares withheld for payroll taxes 
 45,701
 
 (225) 
 
 (225)
Excess tax benefits from vesting of restricted stock units 
 
 
 155
 
 
 155
Balance, December 31, 2015 
 16,064,435
 3,000
 20,067
 129,740
 (430) 152,377
Net income 
 
 
 
 23,016
 
 23,016
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax 
 
 
 
 
 (612) (612)
Cash dividends declared, $0.67 per common share 
 
 
 
 (10,800) 
 (10,800)
Stock-based compensation costs 
 
 
 1,684
 
 
 1,684
Issuance of common stock upon vesting of restricted stock units, net of shares withheld for payroll taxes 
 73,564
 
 (394) 
 
 (394)
Excess tax benefits from vesting of restricted stock units 
 
 
 105
 
 
 105
Balance, December 31, 2016 
 16,137,999
 3,000
 21,462
 141,956
 (1,042) 165,376
Net income 
 
 
 
 23,070
 
 23,070
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax 
 
 
 
 
 (850) (850)
Cash dividends declared, $0.71 per common share 
 
 
 
 (11,499) 
 (11,499)
Stock-based compensation costs 
 
 
 2,632
 
 
 2,632
Issuance of common stock upon vesting of restricted stock units, net of shares withheld for payroll taxes 
 77,673
 
 (631) 
 
 (631)
Balance, December 31, 2017 $
 16,215,672
 $3,000
 $23,463
 $153,527
 $(1,892) $178,098

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.



62
West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015
(dollars in thousands) 2017 2016 2015
Cash Flows from Operating Activities:      
Net income $23,070
 $23,016
 $21,742
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by
   operating activities:
      
Provision for loan losses 
 1,000
 850
Net amortization and accretion 4,155
 4,290
 3,892
Investment securities gains, net (326) (66) (47)
Stock-based compensation 2,632
 1,684
 1,166
Gain on sale of loans held for sale 
 
 (14)
Proceeds from sales of loans held for sale 
 
 840
Increase in cash value of bank-owned life insurance (652) (647) (727)
Gain from bank-owned life insurance (307) (443) 
Depreciation 1,347
 1,046
 921
Deferred income taxes 2,833
 89
 82
Change in assets and liabilities:      
Increase in accrued interest receivable (2,023) (633) (263)
(Increase) decrease in other assets 131
 (85) 2,951
Increase (decrease) in accrued expenses and other liabilities (1,503) 1,047
 (196)
Net cash provided by operating activities 29,357
 30,298
 31,197
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:    
  
Proceeds from sales of investment securities available for sale 108,584
 3,054
 16,946
Proceeds from maturities and calls of investment securities 47,781
 58,358
 49,665
Purchases of investment securities available for sale (341,012) (3,500) (116,824)
Purchases of Federal Home Loan Bank stock (19,414) (17,407) (19,986)
Proceeds from redemption of Federal Home Loan Bank stock 21,011
 19,083
 22,614
Net increase in loans (110,312) (153,037) (62,133)
Proceeds from sales of other real estate owned 
 
 2,227
Purchases of premises and equipment (1,055) (12,802) (2,502)
Proceeds of principal and earnings from bank-owned life insurance 452
 812
 
Proceeds from settlement of other assets 
 
 3,593
Net cash used in investing activities (293,965) (105,439) (106,400)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:      
Net increase in deposits 264,208
 105,876
 170,267
Net decrease in federal funds purchased (9,145) (12,070) (47,215)
Proceeds from long-term debt 22,000
 
 
Principal payments on long-term debt (4,212) (3,286) (4,261)
Principal payments on Federal Home Loan Bank advances (25,000) 
 
Interest rate swap termination costs paid 
 
 (541)
Common stock dividends paid (11,499) (10,800) (9,952)
Restricted stock units withheld for payroll taxes (631) (394) (225)
Net cash provided by financing activities 235,721
 79,326
 108,073
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents (28,887) 4,185
 32,870
Cash and Cash Equivalents:      
Beginning 76,836
 72,651
 39,781
Ending $47,949
 $76,836
 $72,651
       
Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information:      
Cash payments for:      
Interest $12,520
 $7,940
 $6,069
Income taxes 9,300
 7,870
 6,700

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

61

West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)



Note 1. Organization and Nature of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Organization and nature of business:  West Bancorporation, Inc. operates in the commercial banking industry through its wholly-owned subsidiary, West Bank.  West Bank is a state chartered bank and has its main office in West Des Moines, Iowa, with seven additional offices located in the Des Moines, Iowa, metropolitan area, one office located in Iowa City, Iowa, one office located in Coralville, Iowa, and one office located in Rochester, Minnesota.  As used herein, the term "Company"“Company” refers to West Bancorporation, Inc., or if the context dictates, West Bancorporation, Inc. and its subsidiary.

Significant accounting policies:

Accounting estimates and assumptions:  The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) established by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB).  References to GAAP issued by the FASB in these footnotes are to the FASB Accounting Standards CodificationTM, sometimes referred to as the Codification or ASC.  In preparing the consolidated financial statements, management is required to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses for the reporting period.  Actual results could differ from those estimates.  Material estimates that are particularly susceptible to significant change in the near term are the fair value and other than temporary impairment (OTTI) of financial instruments and the allowance for loan losses.

Consolidation policy:  The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company, West Bank and West Bank'sBank’s wholly-owned subsidiary WB Funding Corporation (which owned an interest in a limited liability company that was sold in the fourth quarter of 2015), and West Bank's 99.99 percent owned subsidiary ICD IV, LLC (a community development partnership that was liquidated during the third quarter of 2014 because the underlying loan matured). All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation.  In addition, the Company owns an unconsolidated subsidiary, West Bancorporation Capital Trust I (the Trust), which was formed for the purpose of issuing trust preferred securities. In accordance with GAAP, the results of the Trust are recorded on the books of the Company using the equity method of accounting and are not consolidated.

Reclassification: Certain amounts in prior year financial statements have been reclassified, with no effect on net income, comprehensive income or stockholder's equity, to conform with current period presentation.

Segment information: An operating segment is generally defined as a component of a business for which discrete financial information is available and whose operating results are regularly reviewed by the chief operating decision-maker. The Company has determined that its business is comprised of one operating segment, which is banking. The banking segment generates revenue through interest and fees on loans, interest on investment securities, service charges on deposit accounts, interest on investment securities, fees for trust services and other miscellaneous banking related activities. This segment includes the Company, West Bank, and related elimination entries between the two, as the Company'sCompany’s operation is similar to that of West Bank.

Comprehensive income:  Comprehensive income consists of net income and other comprehensive income (OCI).  OCI consists of the net change in unrealized gains and losses on the Company'sCompany’s investment securities available for sale, including the noncredit-related portion of unrealized gains (losses) of OTTI securities, if any, and the effective portion of the change in fair value of derivative instruments. OCI also includes the amortization of derivative termination costs and the amortization of unrealized gains on investment securities transferred from available for sale to held to maturity.

Cash and cash equivalents and cash flows:  For statement of cash flow purposes, the Company considers cash, due from banks and federal funds sold to be cash and cash equivalents.  Cash inflows and outflows from loans and deposits are reported on a net basis.

Investment securities:  Investment securities that management has the intent and ability to hold to maturity are classified as held to maturity and reported at amortized cost. Investment securities that may be sold for general liquidity needs, in response to market interest rate fluctuations, implementation of asset-liability management strategies, funding loan demand, changes in securities prepayment risk or other similar factors are classified as available for sale and reported at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses reported as a separate component of accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI), net of deferred income taxes.  Realized gains and losses on sales of investment securities are computed on a specific identification basis based on amortized cost.


6362

West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

The amortized cost of debt securities classified as held to maturity or available for sale is adjusted for accretion of discounts to maturity and amortization of premiums over the estimated average life of each security or, in the case of callable securities, through the first call date, using the effective yield method.  Such amortization and accretion is included in interest income.  Interest income on securities is recognized using the interest method according to the terms of the investment security.

The Company evaluates each of its investment securities whose value has declined below amortized cost to determine whether the decline in fair value is OTTI. When determining whether an investment security is OTTI, management assesses the severity and duration of the decline in fair value, the length of time expected for recovery, the financial condition of the issuer and other qualitative factors, as well as whether: (a) it has the intent to sell the security, and (b) it is more likely than not that it will be required to sell the security prior to its anticipated recovery.  In instances when a determination is made that an OTTI exists but management does not intend to sell the security and it is not more likely than not that it will be required to sell the security prior to its anticipated repayment or maturity, the OTTI is separated into: (a) the amount of the total OTTI related to a decrease in cash flows expected to be collected from the security (the credit loss); and (b) the amount of the total OTTI related to all other factors.  The amount of the total OTTI related to the credit loss is recognized as a charge to earnings. The amount of the total OTTI related to all other factors is recognized in OCI. If the Company intends to sell or it is more likely than not that it will be required to sell a security with OTTI before recovery of its amortized cost basis, the OTTI is recognized in earnings equal to the entire difference between the investment’s amortized cost basis and its fair value at the balance sheet date.

Federal Home Loan Bank stock: West Bank, as a member of the Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) system, is required to maintain an investment in capital stock of the FHLB in an amount equal to 0.12 percent of total assets plus 4.00 percent of outstanding advances from the FHLB and the outstanding principal balance of loans previously issued through the Mortgage Partnership Finance Program (MPF).  No ready market exists for the FHLB stock, and it has no quoted market value. The Company evaluates this asset for impairment on a quarterly basis and determined there was no impairment.impairment as of December 31, 2017. All shares of FHLB stock are issued and redeemed at par value.

Loans:  Loans are stated at the principal amounts outstanding, net of unamortized loan fees and costs, with interest income recognized on the interest method based upon those outstanding loan balances.the terms of the loan.  Loan origination fees, net of certain direct origination costs, are deferred and recognized as an adjustment of the related loan yield using the interest method. Loans are reported by the portfolio segments identified and are analyzed by management on this basis. All loan policies identified below apply to all segments of the loan portfolio.

Delinquencies are determined based on the payment terms of the individual loan agreements. The accrual of interest on past due and other impaired loans is generally discontinued at 90 days past due or when, in the opinion of management, the borrower may be unable to make all payments pursuant to contractual terms.  Unless considered collectible, all interest accrued but not collected for loans that are placed on nonaccrual or charged off is reversed against interest income, if accrued in the current year, or charged to the allowance for loan losses, if accrued in the prior year.  Generally, all payments received while a loan is on nonaccrual status are applied to the principal balance of the loan. Loans are returned to accrual status when all principal and interest amounts contractually due are brought current and future payments are reasonably assured. 

A loan is classified as troubled debt restructured (TDR) when the Company separately concludes that a borrower is experiencing financial difficulties and a concession is granted that would not otherwise be considered. Concessions may include a restructuring of the loan terms to alleviate the burden of the borrower'sborrower’s cash requirements, such as an extension of the payment terms beyond the original maturity date or a change in the interest rate charged.  TDR loans with extended payment terms are accounted for as impaired until performance is established. A change to the interest rate would change the classification of a loan to a TDR loan if the restructured loan yields a rate that is below a market rate for that of a new loan with comparable risk. TDR loans with below market rates are considered impaired until fully collected. TDR loans may also be reported as nonaccrual or past due 90 days rather than TDR,past due if they are not performing per the restructured terms.


6463

West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

Based upon its ongoing assessment of credit quality within the loan portfolio, the Company maintains a Watch List, which includes loans classified as Doubtful, Substandard and Watch according to West Bank'sthe Company’s classification criteria. These loans involve the anticipated potential for payment defaults or collateral inadequacies. A loan on the Watch List is considered impaired when management believes it is probable the Company will be unable to collect all contractual principal and interest payments due in accordance with the terms of the loan agreement.  Impaired loans are measured based on the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan'sloan’s effective interest rate or, as a practical expedient, at the loan'sloan’s observable market price or the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral dependent.  The amount of impairment, if any, and any subsequent changes are included in the allowance for loan losses.

Allowance for loan losses:  The allowance for loan losses is established through a provision for loan losses charged to expense.  The allowance is an amount that management believes will be adequate to absorb probable losses on existing loans based on an evaluation of the collectability of loans and prior loss experience.  This evaluation also takes into consideration such factors as changes in the nature and volume of the loan portfolio, overall portfolio quality, the review of specific problem loans, and current economic conditions that may affect the borrowers'borrowers’ ability to pay.  Loans are charged off against the allowance for loan losses when management believes that collectability of the principal is unlikely.  While management uses the best information available to make its evaluations, future adjustments to the allowance may be necessary if there are significant changes in economic conditions or the other factors relied upon.

The allowance for loan losses consists of specific and general components.  The specific component relates to loans that meet the definition of impaired.  The general component covers the remaining loans and is based on historical loss experience adjusted for qualitative factors such as delinquency trends, loan growth, economic elements and local market conditions.  These same policies are applied to all segments of loans. In addition, regulatory agencies, as integral parts of their examination processes, periodically review the Company'sCompany’s allowance for loan losses, and may require the Company to make additions to the allowance based on their judgment about information available to them at the time of their examinations.

Premises and equipment:  Premises and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation.  The straight-line method of depreciation and amortization is used for calculating expense.  The estimated useful lives of premises and equipment range up to 40 years for buildings, up to 10 years for furniture and equipment, and the shorter of the estimated useful life or lease term for leasehold improvements.
 
Other real estate owned:  Real estate properties acquired through or in lieu of foreclosure are initially recorded at fair value less estimated selling cost at the date of foreclosure, establishing a new cost basis.  Fair value is determined by management by obtaining appraisals or other market value information at least annually.  Any write-downs in value at the date of acquisition are charged to the allowance for loan losses.  After foreclosure, valuations are periodically performed by management by obtaining updated appraisals or other market value information. Any subsequent write-downs are recorded as a charge to operations, if necessary, to reduce the carrying value of a property to the updated fair value less estimated selling cost. Net costs related to the holding of properties are included in noninterest expense. As of December 31, 20152017 and 2014,2016, the balance ofCompany had no other real estate owned included in other assets was $0 and $2,235, respectively.owned.

Trust assets:  Assets held by West Bank in fiduciary or agency capacities, other than trust cash on deposit at West Bank, are not included in the consolidated balance sheets of the Company, as such assets are not assets of West Bank. The Company managed or administered accounts with assets totaling $209,920$306,974 as of December 31, 2015,2017, compared to assets totaling $229,286$251,767 as of December 31, 2014.2016.

Bank-owned life insurance:  The carrying amount of bank-owned life insurance consists of the initial premium paid, plus increases in cash value, less the carrying amount associated with any death benefit received.  Death benefits paid in excess of the applicable carrying amount are recognized as income. Increases in cash value and the portion of death benefits recognized as income are exempt from income taxes.


6564

West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

Derivatives: The Company uses derivative financial instruments (which consist of interest rate swaps) to assist in its interest rate risk management. All derivatives are measured and reported at fair value on the Company'sCompany’s consolidated balance sheet as other assets or other liabilities. The accounting for changes in the fair value of derivatives depends on the intended use of the derivative and the resulting designation. As of December 31, 2015,2017, the Company had one cash flow hedging relationship,relationships, which was a derivativewere derivatives to hedge the exposure to variability in expected future cash flows. To qualify for hedge accounting, the Company must comply with the detailed rules and documentation requirements at the inception of the hedge, and hedge effectiveness is assessed at inception and on a quarterly basis throughout the life of each hedging relationship. Hedge ineffectiveness, if any, is measured periodically throughout the life of the hedging relationship. The Company does not use derivatives for trading or speculative purposes.

For derivatives designated as cash flow hedges, the effective portion of changes in the fair value of the derivative is initially reported in OCI, net of deferred taxes, and subsequently reclassified to interest income or expense when the hedged transaction affects earnings, while the ineffective portion of changes in the fair value of the derivative, if any, is recognized immediately in other noninterest income. The Company assesses the effectiveness of the hedging relationship by comparing the cumulative changes in cash flows of the derivative hedging instrument with the cumulative changes in cash flows of the designated hedged item or transaction.

Stock-based compensation: The West Bancorporation, Inc. 2012 Equity Incentive Plan (the 2012 Plan) wasCompany’s current and previous equity incentive plans were approved by the stockholders in 2012.as a means to attract, retain and reward selected participants. The Plan isplans are administered by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors. Compensation expense for stock-based awards is recognized on a straight-line basis over the vesting period using the fair value of the award at the time of the grant. The restricted stock unit (RSU) participants do not have dividend rights prior to vesting, so the fair value of nonvested RSUs is equal to the fair market value of the underlying common stock at the grant date, reduced by the present value of the dividends expected to be paid on the underlying shares during the vesting period. ThePrior to January 1, 2017, the Company currently assumesassumed no projected forfeitures on its stock-based compensation, since all RSUs arewere expected to vest and no forfeitures havehad occurred as of December 31, 2015.2016. Upon adoption of ASU No. 2016-09, Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718) on January 1, 2017, the Company made the accounting policy election to account for forfeitures as they occur.

Deferred compensation: On October 24, 2012, the Company's Board of Directors adopted theThe West Bancorporation, Inc. Deferred Compensation Plan (the Deferred Compensation Plan). was adopted effective January 1, 2013, to provide certain individuals with additional deferral opportunities in planning for retirement. Eligible participants, including directors and key officers of the Company, may choose to voluntarily defer receipt of a portion of their respective cash compensation. The Deferred Compensation Plan is an unfunded, nonqualified deferred compensation plan intended to conform to the requirements of Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code. The Plan became effective on January 1, 2013, and provides an opportunity for eligible participants, including directors and key officers of the Company, to voluntarily defer receipt of a portion of their respective cash compensation. The amount of compensation to be deferred by each individual participating in the Plan, if any, is determined in accordance with the Plan based on each participant's election. Additionally, the Company has the right to make discretionary contributions under the Plan on behalf of participants, though the Company has no intention at this time of making such Company contributions. Deferred compensation under the Plan is payable on a date or dates selected by each participant at the time of enrollment, subject to change in certain specified circumstances. In the event of a change in control of the Company, any amounts deferred by a participant will be distributed to the participant in a lump sum upon the change in control, and any Company contributions will be distributed in accordance with the participant's elections. As of December 31, 2015,2017, no individuals had chosen to participate in the Plan.

Transfer of financial assets:  Transfers of financial assets are accounted for as sales when control over the assets has been surrendered.  Control over transferred assets is deemed to be surrendered when the assets have been isolated from the Company, the transferee obtains the right, free of conditions that constrain it from taking advantage of that right, to pledge or exchange the transferred assets, and the Company does not maintain effective control over the transferred assets through an agreement to repurchase them before their maturity.

Income taxes:  The Company files a consolidated federal income tax return.  Income tax expense is generally allocated as if the Company and its subsidiary file separate income tax returns.  Deferred taxes are provided on an asset and liability method whereby deferred tax assets are recognized for deductible temporary differences, capital loss,losses and net operating loss, and tax credit carryforwards,losses, and deferred tax liabilities are recognized for taxable temporary differences.  Temporary differences are the differences between the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and their tax basis.  Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance when, in the opinion of management, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income 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 rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date.


6665

West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

When tax returns are filed, it is highly certain that some tax positions taken will be sustained upon examination by the taxing authorities, while others are subject to uncertainty about the merits of the positions taken or the amount of the position that would be ultimately sustained.  The benefit of a tax position is recognized in the consolidated financial statements in the period during which, based on all available evidence, management believes it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon examination, including the resolution of appeals or litigation processes, if any.  The evaluation of a tax position taken is considered by itself and is not offset or aggregated with other positions.  Tax positions that meet the more likely than not recognition threshold are measured as the largest amount of tax benefit that is more than 50 percent likely of being realized upon settlement with the applicable taxing authority.  Management does not believe the Company has any material uncertain tax positions to disclose.

Interest and penalties, if any, related to income taxes are recorded as other noninterest expense in the consolidated income statements.statements in the year assessed.

Earnings per common share: Basic earnings per common share are computed by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings per common share reflect the potential dilution that could occur if the Company'sCompany’s outstanding RSUs were vested. The dilutive effect wasis computed using the treasury stock method, which assumes all stock-based awards were exercised and the hypothetical proceeds from exercise were used by the Company to purchase common stock at the average market price during the period. The incremental shares, to the extent they would have been dilutive, were included in the denominator of the diluted earnings per common share calculation.

Current accounting developments:   In January 2014, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2014-04, Receivables—Troubled Debt Restructuring by Creditors (Subtopic 310-40): Reclassification of Residential Real Estate Collateralized Consumer Mortgage Loans Upon Foreclosure. The update clarifies when an in substance foreclosure occurs, that is, when a creditor is considered to have received physical possession of residential real estate property collateralizing a consumer mortgage loan. This is the point when the consumer mortgage loan should be derecognized and the real property recognized. For public companies, this update was effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 31, 2014. The adoption of this guidance did not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.

In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Summary and Amendments that Create Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) and Other Assets and Deferred Costs—Contracts with Customers (Subtopic 340-40). The guidance in this update supersedes the revenue recognition requirements in ASC Topic 605, Revenue Recognition, and most industry-specific guidance throughout the industry topics of the Codification. For public companies, this update will be effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017. The Company adopted the guidance effective January 1, 2018, using the modified retrospective method. The Company's revenue is currently assessingprimarily composed of interest income on financial instruments, including investment securities and loans, which are excluded from the impact thatscope of this update. Also excluded from the scope of the update is revenue from bank-owned life insurance, loan fees and letter of credit fees. Service charges on deposit accounts are within the scope of the guidance; however, current revenue recognition practices will not change under the guidance, as deposit agreements are considered day-to-day contracts. Other noninterest income sources of revenue are considered immaterial. Implementation of the guidance will have on its consolidatednot change current business practices or internal controls for financial statements, but does not expectreporting. Implementation of the guidance to have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.

In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-03, Interest—Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30): Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs. The update simplifies the presentation of debt issuance costs by requiring that debt issuance costs be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of debt liability, consistent with debt discounts or premiums. The recognition and measurement guidance for debt issuance costs are not affected by the amendments in this update. For public companies, this update will be effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2015, and is to be applied retrospectively. The Company has determined that this guidance will not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.

In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-01, Financial Instruments—Overall (Subtopic 825-10): Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities. The update enhances the reporting model for financial instruments to provide users of financial statements with more decision-useful information by updating certain aspects of recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of financial instruments. Among other changes, the update includes requiring changes inrequires public business entities to use the exit price notion when measuring the fair value of equity securities with readily determinable fair value to be recognized in net incomefinancial instruments for disclosure purposes, and clarifies that entities should evaluate the need for a valuation allowance on a deferred tax asset related to available for sale securities in combination with the entities' other deferred tax assets. For public companies, this update will be effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017, and is to be applied on a modified retrospective basis. Upon the effective date, the fair value of the Company's loan portfolio will be presented using an exit price method. The Company is currently assessinghas concluded that the impact thatremaining requirements of this guidance will have on its consolidated financial statements, but doesupdate are not expect the guidanceexpected to have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.


67

West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-01,2016-02, Leases (Topic 842). The guidance in thisthe update supersedes the requirements in ASC Topic 840, Leases. The update will require business entitiesguidance is intended to recognizeincrease transparency and comparability among organizations by recognizing lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet and to disclose key information about leasing arrangements. A lessee would recognize a liability to make lease payments and a right-of-use asset representing its right to use the leased asset for the lease term.leases with terms of more than 12 months. For public companies, this update will be effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2018, and is to be applied on a modified retrospective basis. The Company currently leases its main location and space for six other branch offices and operational departments under operating leases that will result in recognition of lease assets and lease liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets under the update. The amount of assets and liabilities added to the balance sheet are not expected to have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements per preliminary estimates.


66

West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-09, Compensation—Stock Compensation (Topic 718). The guidance in this update simplifies several aspects of accounting for share-based payment transactions, including the income tax consequences, classification of awards as either equity or liabilities, and classification on the statement of cash flows. The guidance also allows an entity to make an entity-wide accounting policy election to either estimate expected forfeitures or account for forfeitures as they occur. For public companies, the update was effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016. Portions of the amended guidance were to be applied using a modified retrospective transition method, and others required prospective application. Upon adoption of this update on January 1, 2017, the Company made the accounting policy election to account for forfeitures as they occur. This resulted in no effect on the Company's consolidated financial statements, as prior stock-based compensation expense assumed no expected forfeitures. Upon adoption, the Company changed the calculation of the assumed proceeds of the treasury stock method on a prospective basis to eliminate deferred taxes from the calculation. The net impact on the income statement is dependent upon the change in the Company's stock price from grant date to vesting date and cannot be predicted by management with any certainty. The requirement to report the excess tax benefit or shortfall related to settlements of share-based payment awards in earnings as an increase or decrease to tax expense, rather than within additional paid-in-capital, has been applied to settlements occurring on or after January 1, 2017, and the impact of applying that guidance reduced reported income tax expense by $285 for the year ended December 31, 2017.

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-13, Financial Instruments—Credit Losses (Topic 326). The amendments in this update require a financial asset (or a group of financial assets) measured at amortized cost basis to be presented at the net amount expected to be collected. The allowance for credit losses is a valuation account that is deducted from the amortized cost basis of the financial assets to present the net carrying value at the amount expected to be collected on the financial assets. The income statement reflects the measurement of credit losses for newly recognized financial assets, as well as the expected increases or decreases of expected credit losses that have taken place during the period. The measurement of expected credit losses is based on relevant information about past events, including historical experience, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts that affect the collectibility of the reported amount of financial assets. An entity must use judgment in determining the relevant information and estimation methods that are appropriate in its circumstances. The allowance for credit losses for purchased financial assets with a more-than-insignificant amount of credit deterioration since origination that are measured at amortized cost basis is determined in a similar manner to other financial assets measured at amortized cost basis; however, the initial allowance for credit losses is added to the purchase price rather than being reported as a credit loss expense. Only subsequent changes in the allowance for credit losses are recorded as a credit loss expense for these assets. Off-balance-sheet arrangements such as commitments to extend credit, guarantees, and standby letters of credit that are not considered derivatives under ASC 815 and are not unconditionally cancellable are also within the scope of this update. Credit losses relating to available for sale debt securities should be recorded through an allowance for credit losses. For public companies, the update is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2019, including interim periods within those fiscal years. All entities may adopt the amendments in this update earlier as of fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years. An entity will apply the amendments in this update on a modified retrospective basis through a cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings as of the beginning of the first reporting period in which the guidance is effective. The Company does not plan to early adopt this standard, but is currently assessingplanning for the implementation. It is too early to assess the impact that this guidance will have on itsthe Company's consolidated financial statements,statements.

In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments. The amendments in this update provide guidance for eight specific cash flow classification issues for which current guidance is unclear or does not exist, thereby reducing diversity in practice. For public companies, the update is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017, with early adoption permitted. The Company's early adoption of the update as of January 1, 2017, did not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.

In March 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-08, Receivables—Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs (Subtopic 310-20): Premium Amortization on Purchased Callable Debt Securities. The amendments in this update shorten the amortization period for certain purchased callable debt securities held at a premium. The amendments require the premium to be amortized to the earliest call date. The amendments do not require an accounting change for securities held at a discount; the discount continues to be amortized to maturity. For public companies, the update is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2018, and is to be applied on a modified retrospective basis with a cumulative-effect adjustment directly to retained earnings as of the beginning of the adoption period. Early adoption is permitted, including adoption in an interim period. The Company adopted the amendments in the fourth quarter of 2017, and it had no impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.

67

West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

In August 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-12, Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Targeted Improvements to Accounting for Hedging Activities. The amendments in this update better align an entity's risk management activities and financial reporting for hedging relationships through changes to both the designation and measurement guidance for qualifying hedging relationships and the presentation of hedge results. For public companies, the update is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2018, with early adoption permitted, including in an interim period. The amendments' presentation and disclosure guidance is required on a prospective basis. The Company is currently assessing the impact of this guidance, but does not expect the guidance to have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.

In February 2018, the FASB issued ASU No. 2018-02, Income Statement - Reporting Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income. The amendment in this update allows a reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive income to retained earnings for stranded tax effects resulting from the December 22, 2017, enactment of the reduced federal corporate income tax rate, which is effective in 2018. For public companies, the update is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2018, with early adoption permitted. The amendment can be adopted at the beginning of the period or on a retrospective basis. The Company plans to adopt the amendment in the first quarter of 2018 using the beginning of the period option. The reclassified amount will be $369.

Note 2. Earnings per Common Share

The calculation of earnings per common share and diluted earnings per common share is presented below for the years ended December 31, 2015, 20142017, 2016 and 20132015, is presented below..
 2015 2014 2013
Net income$21,742
 $20,040
 $16,891
  
  
  
Weighted average common shares outstanding16,050
 16,004
 16,582
Weighted average effect of restricted stock units outstanding46
 38
 47
Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding16,096
 16,042
 16,629
  
  
  
Basic earnings per common share$1.35
 $1.25
 $1.02
Diluted earnings per common share$1.35
 $1.25
 $1.02
The Company had 139,500 shares of unvested restricted stock as of December 31, 2015 that were not included in the computation of diluted earnings per common share because their effect would be anti-dilutive.  There were no anti-dilutive shares of unvested restricted stock as of December 31, 2014 and 2013.
(in thousands, except per share data)2017 2016 2015
Net income$23,070
 $23,016
 $21,742
  
  
  
Weighted average common shares outstanding16,194
 16,117
 16,050
Weighted average effect of restricted stock units outstanding141
 54
 46
Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding16,335
 16,171
 16,096
  
  
  
Basic earnings per common share$1.42
 $1.43
 $1.35
Diluted earnings per common share$1.41
 $1.42
 $1.35
Number of anti-dilutive common stock equivalents excluded from diluted earnings per share computation
 102
 140


68

West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

Note 3. Investment Securities
 
The following tables show the amortized cost, gross unrealized gains and losses and fair value of investment securities, by investment security type as of December 31, 20152017 and 20142016. 
20152017
Amortized
Cost
 
Gross Unrealized
Gains
 
Gross Unrealized
(Losses)
 
Fair
Value
Amortized
Cost
 
Gross Unrealized
Gains
 
Gross Unrealized
Losses
 
Fair
Value
Securities available for sale:              
U.S. government agencies and corporations$2,551
 $141
 $
 $2,692
State and political subdivisions71,431
 1,669
 (21) 73,079
$146,331
 $928
 $(946) $146,313
Collateralized mortgage obligations (1)
133,414
 491
 (1,290) 132,615
162,631
 28
 (2,727) 159,932
Mortgage-backed securities (1)
101,299
 485
 (696) 101,088
60,956
 20
 (547) 60,429
Asset-backed securities (2)
45,539
 8
 (352) 45,195
Trust preferred security1,773
 
 (668) 1,105
2,134
 
 (128) 2,006
Corporate notes and equity securities10,130
 61
 (56) 10,135
Corporate notes30,278
 331
 (265) 30,344
$320,598
 $2,847
 $(2,731) $320,714
$447,869
 $1,315
 $(4,965) $444,219
              
Securities held to maturity:              
State and political subdivisions$51,259
 $883
 $(224) $51,918
$45,527
 $460
 $(97) $45,890
20142016
Amortized
Cost
 
Gross Unrealized
Gains
 
Gross Unrealized
(Losses)
 
Fair
Value
Amortized
Cost
 
Gross Unrealized
Gains
 
Gross Unrealized
Losses
 
Fair
Value
Securities available for sale:              
U.S. government agencies and corporations$12,626
 $204
 $(10) $12,820
$2,524
 $69
 $
 $2,593
State and political subdivisions51,234
 1,286
 (161) 52,359
64,551
 376
 (591) 64,336
Collateralized mortgage obligations (1)
126,430
 856
 (1,416) 125,870
103,038
 255
 (1,343) 101,950
Mortgage-backed securities (1)
65,813
 624
 (284) 66,153
80,614
 341
 (797) 80,158
Trust preferred security1,763
 
 (845) 918
1,784
 
 (534) 1,250
Corporate notes and equity securities14,729
 66
 (125) 14,670
Corporate notes10,326
 25
 (1) 10,350
$272,595
 $3,036
 $(2,841) $272,790
$262,837
 $1,066
 $(3,266) $260,637
              
Securities held to maturity:              
State and political subdivisions$51,343
 $344
 $(186) $51,501
$48,386
 $70
 $(667) $47,789

(1) All collateralized mortgage obligations and mortgage-backed securities consist of residential mortgage pass-through securities guaranteed by GNMA or issued by FNMA and real estate mortgage investment conduits guaranteed by FHLMC or GNMA.
(1)All collateralized mortgage obligations and mortgage-backed securities consist of residential mortgage pass-through securities guaranteed by FHLMC or FNMA, real estate mortgage investment conduits guaranteed by FNMA, FHLMC or GNMA, and commercial mortgage pass-through securities guaranteed by the SBA.
(2)Pass-through asset-backed securities guaranteed by the SBA, representing participating interests in pools of long-term debentures issued by state and local development companies certified by the SBA.

In September 2014, the Company transferred 86 state and political subdivision securities with total amortized cost and estimated fair value of $50,882 and $51,371, respectively, from the available for sale securities classification to the held to maturity securities classification. Unrealized net gains, before tax, of $489 included in AOCI at the time of transfer are being amortized to interest income over the remaining expected lives of the transferred securities.

Investment securities with an amortized cost of approximately $78,553$120,338 and $4,805$141,995 as of December 31, 20152017 and 2014,2016, respectively, were pledged to secure access to the Federal Reserve discount window, for public fund deposits, and for other purposes as required or permitted by law or regulation. The increase in the amount of pledged investment securities as of December 31, 2015 compared to December 31, 2014 was primarily due to an increase in public fund deposits.  


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Table of Contents
West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

The amortized cost and fair value of investment securities available for sale as of December 31, 2015,2017, by contractual maturity, are shown below. Certain securities have call features that allow the issuer to call the securities prior to maturity.  Expected maturities may differ from contractual maturities for collateralized mortgage obligations, mortgage-backed securities and mortgage-backedasset-backed securities because borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties.  Therefore, collateralized mortgage obligations, mortgage-backed securities and mortgage-backedasset-backed securities are not included in the maturity categories inwithin the following maturity summary. Equity securities have no maturity date.
20152017
Amortized Cost Fair ValueAmortized Cost Fair Value
Due in one year or less$1,006
 $1,017
$110
 $110
Due after one year through five years18,976
 19,283
2,355
 2,358
Due after five years through ten years27,565
 28,251
41,525
 41,710
Due after ten years36,854
 36,939
134,753
 134,485
84,401
 85,490
178,743
 178,663
Collateralized mortgage obligations and mortgage-backed securities234,713
 233,703
Equity securities1,484
 1,521
Collateralized mortgage obligations, mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities269,126
 265,556
$320,598
 $320,714
$447,869
 $444,219
The amortized cost and fair value of investment securities held to maturity as of December 31, 2015,2017, by contractual maturity, are shown below.  Certain securities have call features that allow the issuer to call the securities prior to maturity.  
20152017
Amortized Cost Fair ValueAmortized Cost Fair Value
Due after one year through five years$277
 $272
$1,594
 $1,588
Due after five years through ten years16,570
 16,754
26,621
 26,798
Due after ten years34,412
 34,892
17,312
 17,504
$51,259
 $51,918
$45,527
 $45,890
The details of the sales of investment securities for the years ended December 31, 2015, 20142017, 2016 and 20132015 are summarized in the following table.
2015 2014 20132017 2016 2015
Proceeds from sales$16,946
 $36,582
 $
$108,584
 $3,054
 $16,946
Gross gains on sales54
 1,050
 
752
 66
 54
Gross losses on sales7
 827
 
426
 
 7

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Table of Contents
West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

The following tables show the fair value and gross unrealized losses, aggregated by investment type and length of time that individual securities have been in a continuous loss position, as of December 31, 20152017 and 2014.  2016.  
 2015 2017
 Less than 12 months 12 months or longer Total Less than 12 months 12 months or longer Total
 
Fair
Value
 
Gross Unrealized
Losses
 
Fair
Value
 
Gross Unrealized
Losses
 
Fair
Value
 
Gross Unrealized
Losses
 
Fair
Value
 
Gross Unrealized
Losses
 
Fair
Value
 
Gross Unrealized
Losses
 
Fair
Value
 
Gross Unrealized
Losses
Securities available for sale:                        
U.S. government agencies and corporations $
 $
 $
 $
 $
 $
State and political subdivisions 321
 (1) 2,053
 (20) 2,374
 (21) $86,750
 $(946) $
 $
 $86,750
 $(946)
Collateralized mortgage obligations 53,043
 (449) 38,286
 (841) 91,329
 (1,290) 107,526
 (1,583) 46,396
 (1,144) 153,922
 (2,727)
Mortgage-backed securities 67,662
 (600) 7,200
 (96) 74,862
 (696) 53,974
 (547) 
 
 53,974
 (547)
Asset-backed securities 38,652
 (352) 
 
 38,652
 (352)
Trust preferred security 
 
 1,105
 (668) 1,105
 (668) 
 
 2,006
 (128) 2,006
 (128)
Corporate notes and equity securities 4,500
 (56) 
 
 4,500
 (56)
Corporate notes 14,735
 (265) 
 
 14,735
 (265)
 $125,526
 $(1,106) $48,644
 $(1,625) $174,170
 $(2,731) $301,637
 $(3,693) $48,402
 $(1,272) $350,039
 $(4,965)
                        
Securities held to maturity:                        
State and political subdivisions $2,832
 $(42) $7,341
 $(182) $10,173
 $(224) $12,611
 $(70) $1,740
 $(27) $14,351
 $(97)
 2014 2016
 Less than 12 months 12 months or longer Total Less than 12 months 12 months or longer Total
 
Fair
Value
 
Gross Unrealized
Losses
 
Fair
Value
 
Gross Unrealized
Losses
 
Fair
Value
 
Gross Unrealized
Losses
 
Fair
Value
 
Gross Unrealized
Losses
 
Fair
Value
 
Gross Unrealized
Losses
 
Fair
Value
 
Gross Unrealized
Losses
Securities available for sale:                        
U.S. government agencies and corporations $10,039
 $(10) $
 $
 $10,039
 $(10)
State and political subdivisions 6,614
 (90) 5,887
 (71) 12,501
 (161) $34,903
 $(591) $
 $
 $34,903
 $(591)
Collateralized mortgage obligations 17,283
 (87) 53,318
 (1,329) 70,601
 (1,416) 75,771
 (1,255) 2,538
 (88) 78,309
 (1,343)
Mortgage-backed securities 15,184
 (101) 17,126
 (183) 32,310
 (284) 60,221
 (797) 
 
 60,221
 (797)
Trust preferred security 
 
 918
 (845) 918
 (845) 
 
 1,250
 (534) 1,250
 (534)
Corporate notes and equity securities 4,581
 (23) 2,881
 (102) 7,462
 (125)
Corporate notes 1,499
 (1) 
 
 1,499
 (1)
 $53,701
 $(311) $80,130
 $(2,530) $133,831
 $(2,841) $172,394
 $(2,644) $3,788
 $(622) $176,182
 $(3,266)
                        
Securities held to maturity:                        
State and political subdivisions $13,048
 $(186) $
 $
 $13,048
 $(186) $32,976
 $(458) $3,968
 $(209) $36,944
 $(667)
As of December 31, 2015,2017, the available for sale and held to maturity investment securities with unrealized losses that have existed for longer than one year included 21146 state and political subdivision securities, 1138 collateralized mortgage obligations, two15 mortgage-backed securities, andsix asset-backed securities, one trust preferred security.

security and four corporate notes. The Company believes the unrealized losses on investmentsinvestment securities available for sale and held to maturity as of December 31, 2015,2017 were due to market conditions, including interest rate fluctuations, rather than reduced estimated cash flows.  The Company does not intend to sell these securities, does not anticipate that these securities will be required to be sold before anticipated recovery, and expects full principal and interest to be collected.  Therefore, the Company does not consider these investments to have OTTI as of December 31, 20152017.


71

Table of Contents
West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

Note 4. Loans and Allowance for Loan Losses
 
Loans consisted of the following segments as of December 31, 20152017 and 20142016.
2015 20142017 2016
Commercial$349,051
 $316,908
$347,482
 $334,014
Real estate:   
   
Construction, land and land development174,602
 154,490
207,451
 205,610
1-4 family residential first mortgages51,370
 53,497
51,044
 47,184
Home equity21,749
 24,500
13,811
 18,057
Commercial644,176
 625,938
886,114
 788,000
Consumer and other loans6,801
 9,318
Consumer and other6,363
 8,355
1,247,749
 1,184,651
1,512,265
 1,401,220
Net unamortized fees and costs(1,061) (606)(1,765) (1,350)
$1,246,688
 $1,184,045
$1,510,500
 $1,399,870
The loan portfolio included $836,619$997,642 and $770,982$911,067 of fixed ratefixed-rate loans and $411,130$514,623 and $413,669$490,153 of variable ratevariable-rate loans as of December 31, 20152017 and 2014,2016, respectively.

Real estate loans of approximately $590,000810,000 and $680,000 were pledged as security for FHLB advances as of December 31, 20152017 and 20142016., respectively.  

The Company has had, and may be expected to have in the future, banking transactions in the ordinary course of business with directors, executive officers, their immediate families, and affiliated companies in which they are principal stockholders or executive officers (commonly referred to as related parties), all of which have been originated, in the opinion of management, on the same terms, including interest rates and collateral, as those prevailing at the time for comparable transactions with unrelated parties. Loan transactions with related parties were as follows for the years ended December 31, 20152017 and 20142016.
2015 20142017 2016
Balance, beginning of year$129,780
 $93,612
$191,697
 $138,706
New loans37,049
 40,331
28,975
 60,712
Repayments(28,123) (4,163)(55,575) (7,721)
Balance, end of year$138,706
 $129,780
$165,097
 $191,697



72

Table of Contents
West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

The following table presents the TDR loans by segment as of December 31, 2015 and 2014.
 2015 2014
Troubled debt restructured loans (1):
   
Commercial$102
 $
Real estate:   
Construction, land and land development60
 376
1-4 family residential first mortgages86
 86
Home equity
 
Commercial445
 557
Consumer and other loans
 
Total troubled debt restructured loans$693
 $1,019
(1)
There were three TDR loans as of December 31, 2015 and two TDR loans as of December 31, 2014, with balances of $613 and $643, respectively, included in the nonaccrual category.

There were three loan modifications considered to be TDR that occurred during the year ended December 31, 2015, no loan modifications considered to be TDR that occurred during the year ended December 31, 2014, and one loan modification considered to be TDR that occurred during the year ended December 31, 2013. The pre- and post-modification recorded investment in TDR loans that have occurred during the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, totaled $149, $0 and $31, respectively. The financial impact of charge-offs or specific reserves for these modified loans was immaterial.

The recorded investment in TDR loans that have been modified within the twelve months ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, which have subsequently had a payment default, totaled $110, $0 and $31, respectively. A TDR loan is considered to have a payment default when it is past due 30 days or more.


73

Table of Contents
West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

The following table summarizes the recorded investment in impaired loans by segment, broken down by loans with no related allowance and loans with a related allowance and the amount of that allowance as of December 31, 20152017 and 20142016.
 December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 December 31, 2017 December 31, 2016
 
Recorded
Investment
 
Unpaid
Principal
Balance
 
Related
Allowance
 
Recorded
Investment
 
Unpaid
Principal
Balance
 
Related
Allowance
 
Recorded
Investment
 
Unpaid
Principal
Balance
 
Related
Allowance
 
Recorded
Investment
 
Unpaid
Principal
Balance
 
Related
Allowance
With no related allowance recorded:                        
Commercial $
 $
 $
 $164
 $310
 $
 $
 $
 $
 $35
 $35
 $
Real estate:                        
Construction, land and land development 60
 663
 
 376
 978
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1-4 family residential first mortgages 352
 360
 
 257
 257
 
 91
 91
 
 108
 108
 
Home equity 
 
 
 
 
 
 172
 172
 
 41
 41
 
Commercial 482
 482
 
 557
 557
 
 220
 220
 
 335
 335
 
Consumer and other 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 894
 1,505
 
 1,354
 2,102
 
 483
 483
 
 519
 519
 
With an allowance recorded:                        
Commercial 142
 142
 142
 292
 292
 150
 
 
 
 91
 91
 91
Real estate:                        
Construction, land and land development 
 
 
 825
 825
 200
 
 
 
 
 
 
1-4 family residential first mortgages 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Home equity 270
 270
 270
 229
 229
 229
 21
 21
 21
 276
 276
 276
Commercial 155
 155
 155
 172
 172
 172
 118
 118
 118
 136
 136
 136
Consumer and other 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 567
 567
 567
 1,518
 1,518
 751
 139
 139
 139
 503
 503
 503
Total:                        
Commercial 142
 142
 142
 456
 602
 150
 
 
 
 126
 126
 91
Real estate:                        
Construction, land and land development 60
 663
 
 1,201
 1,803
 200
 
 
 
 
 
 
1-4 family residential first mortgages 352
 360
 
 257
 257
 
 91
 91
 
 108
 108
 
Home equity 270
 270
 270
 229
 229
 229
 193
 193
 21
 317
 317
 276
Commercial 637
 637
 155
 729
 729
 172
 338
 338
 118
 471
 471
 136
Consumer and other 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total impaired loans $1,461
 $2,072
 $567
 $2,872
 $3,620
 $751
 $622
 $622
 $139
 $1,022
 $1,022
 $503

The balance of impaired loans at December 31, 20152017 was composed of loans to 13five different borrowers, and the balance of impaired loans at December 31, 20142016 was composed of loans to 11ten different borrowers.  As of December 31, 2015, 9 of the borrowers, comprising $1,2742017, $450 of total impaired loans to four of the borrowers were also considered impaired as of December 31, 2014.2016. The Company has no commitments to advance additional funds on any of the impaired loans.



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West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

The following table summarizes the average recorded investment and interest income recognized on impaired loans by segment for the years ended December 31, 20152017, 20142016 and 2013.2015.

 December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 December 31, 2013 December 31, 2017 December 31, 2016 December 31, 2015
 Average Recorded Investment Interest Income Recognized Average Recorded Investment Interest Income Recognized Average Recorded Investment Interest Income Recognized Average Recorded Investment Interest Income Recognized Average Recorded Investment Interest Income Recognized Average Recorded Investment Interest Income Recognized
With no related allowance recorded:                        
Commercial $116
 $
 $271
 $
 $206
 $9
 $19
 $
 $3
 $
 $116
 $
Real estate:                        
Construction, land and                        
land development 259
 10
 397
 15
 1,475
 17
 
 
 8
 
 259
 10
1-4 family residential first mortgages 311
 1
 355
 7
 574
 1
 99
 
 212
 1
 311
 1
Home equity 
 
 7
 
 2
 
 39
 2
 3
 
 
 
Commercial 952
 
 674
 6
 1,759
 7
 276
 
 393
 
 952
 
Consumer and other 2
 
 
 
 5
 
 
 
 
 
 2
 
 1,640
 11
 1,704
 28
 4,021
 34
 433
 2
 619
 1
 1,640
 11
With an allowance recorded:                        
Commercial 204
 2
 544
 11
 3,468
 85
 60
 7
 127
 
 204
 2
Real estate:                        
Construction, land and                        
land development 190
 6
 1,423
 66
 3,299
 165
 
 
 
 
 190
 6
1-4 family residential first mortgages 
 
 144
 
 183
 8
 
 
 
 
 
 
Home equity 237
 
 125
 
 239
 11
 177
 1
 263
 
 237
 
Commercial 164
 
 54
 
 798
 44
 127
 
 145
 
 164
 
Consumer and other 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 795
 8
 2,290
 77
 7,987
 313
 364
 8
 535
 
 795
 8
Total:                        
Commercial 320
 2
 815
 11
 3,674
 94
 79
 7
 130
 
 320
 2
Real estate:                        
Construction, land and                        
land development 449
 16
 1,820
 81
 4,774
 182
 
 
 8
 
 449
 16
1-4 family residential first mortgages 311
 1
 499
 7
 757
 9
 99
 
 212
 1
 311
 1
Home equity 237
 
 132
 
 241
 11
 216
 3
 266
 
 237
 
Commercial 1,116
 
 728
 6
 2,557
 51
 403
 
 538
 
 1,116
 
Consumer and other 2
 
 
 
 5
 
 
 
 
 
 2
 
Total impaired loans $2,435
 $19
 $3,994
 $105
 $12,008
 $347
 $797
 $10
 $1,154
 $1
 $2,435
 $19
Interest income forgone on impaired loans was $128, $136$47, $72 and $333,$128, respectively, during the years ended December 31, 2015, 20142017, 2016 and 2013.2015. 


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West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

The following tables provide an analysis of the payment status of the recorded investment in loans as of December 31, 20152017 and 20142016.
 December 31, 2015 December 31, 2017
 
30-59
Days Past
Due
 60-89 Days Past Due 90 Days or More Past Due 
Total
Past Due
 Current Nonaccrual Loans Total Loans 
30-59
Days Past
Due
 60-89 Days Past Due 90 Days or More Past Due 
Total
Past Due
 Current Nonaccrual Loans Total Loans
Commercial $1
 $38
 $
 $39
 $348,870
 $142
 $349,051
 $40
 $20
 $
 $60
 $347,422
 $
 $347,482
Real estate:             
             
Construction, land and             
             
land development 
 
 
 
 174,602
 
 174,602
 
 
 
 
 207,451
 
 207,451
1-4 family residential             
             
first mortgages 317
 
 
 317
 50,721
 332
 51,370
 
 75
 
 75
 50,878
 91
 51,044
Home equity 
 
 
 
 21,479
 270
 21,749
 
 
 
 
 13,618
 193
 13,811
Commercial 
 
 
 
 643,539
 637
 644,176
 
 
 
 
 885,776
 338
 886,114
Consumer and other 
 
 
 
 6,801
 
 6,801
 
 
 
 
 6,363
 
 6,363
Total $318
 $38
 $
 $356
 $1,246,012
 $1,381
 $1,247,749
 $40
 $95
 $
 $135
 $1,511,508
 $622
 $1,512,265
 December 31, 2014 December 31, 2016
 
30-59
Days Past
Due
 60-89 Days Past Due 90 Days or More Past Due 
Total
Past Due
 Current Nonaccrual Loans Total Loans 
30-59
Days Past
Due
 60-89 Days Past Due 90 Days or More Past Due 
Total
Past Due
 Current Nonaccrual Loans Total Loans
Commercial $34
 $
 $
 $34
 $316,528
 $346
 $316,908
 $109
 $
 $
 $109
 $333,779
 $126
 $334,014
Real estate:                            
Construction, land and                            
land development 
 
 
 
 154,490
 
 154,490
 
 
 
 
 205,610
 
 205,610
1-4 family residential             
             
first mortgages 
 
 
 
 53,240
 257
 53,497
 64
 
 
 64
 47,012
 108
 47,184
Home equity 14
 
 
 14
 24,257
 229
 24,500
 
 
 
 
 17,740
 317
 18,057
Commercial 1,500
 
 
 1,500
 623,709
 729
 625,938
 
 
 
 
 787,529
 471
 788,000
Consumer and other 
 
 
 
 9,318
 
 9,318
 
 
 
 
 8,355
 
 8,355
Total $1,548
 $
 $
 $1,548
 $1,181,542
 $1,561
 $1,184,651
 $173
 $
 $
 $173
 $1,400,025
 $1,022
 $1,401,220

TDR loans totaled $220 and $426 as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, and were included in the nonaccrual category. There were no loan modifications considered to be TDR that occurred during the year ended December 31, 2017 or December 31, 2016, and three loan modifications considered to be TDR that occurred during the year ended December 31, 2015. The pre- and post-modification recorded investment in TDR loans that have occurred during the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, totaled $0, $0 and $149, respectively. The financial impact of charge-offs or specific reserves for these modified loans was immaterial.

The recorded investment in TDR loans that have been modified within the twelve months ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, which have subsequently had a payment default, totaled $0, $0 and $110, respectively. A TDR loan is considered to have a payment default when it is past due 30 days or more.



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West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

The following tables show the recorded investment in loans by credit quality indicator and loan segment as of December 31, 20152017 and 20142016.
 December 31, 2015 December 31, 2017
 Pass Watch Substandard Doubtful Total Pass Watch Substandard Doubtful Total
Commercial $344,650
 $2,936
 $1,465
 $
 $349,051
 $344,586
 $901
 $1,995
 $
 $347,482
Real estate:                    
Construction, land and land development 173,373
 
 1,229
 
 174,602
 206,719
 732
 
 
 207,451
1-4 family residential first mortgages 50,375
 517
 478
 
 51,370
 49,905
 890
 249
 
 51,044
Home equity 21,401
 68
 280
 
 21,749
 13,466
 54
 291
 
 13,811
Commercial 619,608
 22,977
 1,591
 
 644,176
 856,789
 20,574
 8,751
 
 886,114
Consumer and other 6,786
 
 15
 
 6,801
 6,327
 36
 
 
 6,363
Total $1,216,193
 $26,498
 $5,058
 $
 $1,247,749
 $1,477,792
 $23,187
 $11,286
 $
 $1,512,265
 December 31, 2014 December 31, 2016
 Pass Watch Substandard Doubtful Total Pass Watch Substandard Doubtful Total
Commercial $309,704
 $6,268
 $936
 $
 $316,908
 $329,366
 $3,303
 $1,345
 $
 $334,014
Real estate:                    
Construction, land and land development 151,258
 993
 2,239
 
 154,490
 204,572
 
 1,038
 
 205,610
1-4 family residential first mortgages 52,574
 536
 387
 
 53,497
 46,278
 798
 108
 
 47,184
Home equity 23,958
 218
 324
 
 24,500
 17,646
 
 411
 
 18,057
Commercial 614,974
 7,467
 3,497
 
 625,938
 769,010
 18,392
 598
 
 788,000
Consumer and other 9,318
 
 
 
 9,318
 8,355
 
 
 
 8,355
Total $1,161,786
 $15,482
 $7,383
 $
 $1,184,651
 $1,375,227
 $22,493
 $3,500
 $
 $1,401,220
All loans are subject to the assessment of a credit quality indicator. Risk ratings are assigned for each loan at the time of approval, and they change as circumstances dictate during the term of the loan. The Company utilizes a 9-point risk rating scale as shown below, with ratings 1 - 5 included in the Pass column, rating 6 included in the Watch column, ratings 7 - 8 included in the Substandard column, and rating 9 included in the Doubtful column. All loans classified as impaired that are included in the specific evaluation of the allowance for loan losses are included in the Substandard column along with all other loans with ratings of 7 - 8.

Risk rating 1: The loan is secured by cash equivalent collateral.

Risk rating 2: The loan is secured by properly margined marketable securities, bonds or cash surrender value of life insurance.

Risk rating 3: The borrower is in strong financial condition and has strong debt service capacity. The loan is performing as agreed, and the financial characteristics and trends of the borrower exceed industry statistics.

Risk rating 4: The borrower is in satisfactoryborrower’s financial condition is satisfactory and stable.  The borrower has satisfactory debt service capacity.capacity, and the loan is well secured. The loan is performing as agreed, and the financial characteristics and trends of the borrower fall in line with industry statistics.

Risk rating 5: The borrower'sborrower’s financial condition is less than satisfactory. The loan is still generally paying as agreed, but strained cash flow may cause some slowness in payments. The collateral values adequately preclude loss on the loan. Financial characteristics and trends lag industry statistics. There may be noncompliance with loan covenants.

Risk rating 6: The borrower'sborrower’s financial condition is deficient. Payment delinquencies may be more common. Collateral values still protect from loss, but margins are narrow. The loan may be reliant on secondary sources of repayment, including liquidation of collateral and guarantor support.


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Table of Contents
West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

Risk rating 7: The loan is inadequately protected by the current sound worth and paying capacity of the obligor or of the collateral pledged, if any. Well-defined weaknesses exist that jeopardize the liquidation of the debt. The Company is inadequately protected by the valuation or paying capacity of the collateral pledged. If deficiencies are not corrected, there is a distinct possibility that a loss will be sustained.

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West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

Risk rating 8: All the characteristics of rating 7 exist with the added condition that the loan is past due more than 90 days or there is reason to believe the Company will not receive its principal and interest according to the terms of the loan agreement.

Risk rating 9: All the weaknesses inherent in risk ratings 7 and 8 exist with the added condition that collection or liquidation, on the basis of currently known facts, conditions and values, is highly questionable and improbable. A loan reaching this category would most likely be charged off.

Credit quality indicators for all loans and the Company'sCompany’s risk rating process are dynamic and updated on a continuous basis. Risk ratings are updated as circumstances that could affect the repayment of an individual loan are brought to management'smanagement’s attention through an established monitoring process. Individual lenders initiate changes as appropriate for ratings 1 through 5, and changes for ratings 6 through 9 are initiated via communications with management. The likelihood of loss increases as the risk rating increases and is generally preceded by a loan appearing on the Watch List, which consists of all loans with a risk rating of 6 or worse. Written action plans with firm target dates for resolution of identified problems are maintained and reviewed on a quarterly basis for all segments of criticized loans.loans included on the Watch List.

In addition to the Company'sCompany’s internal credit monitoring practices and procedures, an outsourced independent credit review function is in place to further assess assigned internal risk classifications and monitor compliance with internal lending policies and procedures.

In all portfolio segments, the primary risks are that a borrower'sborrower’s income stream diminishes to the point that it is not able to make scheduled principal and interest payments and any collateral securing the loan declines in value. The risk of declining collateral values is present for most types of loans.

Commercial loans consist primarily of loans to businesses for various purposes, including revolving lines to finance current operations, inventory and accounts receivable, and capital expenditure loans to finance equipment and other fixed assets.  These loans generally have short maturities, have either adjustable or fixed interest rates, and are either unsecured or secured by inventory, accounts receivable and/or fixed assets. For commercial loans, the primary source of repayment is from the operation of the business.

Real estate loans include various types of loans for which the Company holds real property as collateral, and consist of loans on commercial properties and single and multifamily residences.  Real estate loans are typically structured to mature or reprice every 5 to 10 years with payments based on amortization periods up to 30 years.  The majority of construction loans are to contractors and developers for construction of commercial buildings or residential real estate. These loans typically have maturities up to 24 months. The Company'sCompany’s loan policy includes minimum appraisal and other credit guidelines.

Consumer loans include loans extended to individuals for household, family and other personal expenditures not secured by real estate.  The majority of the Company'sCompany’s consumer lending is for vehicles, consolidation of personal debts and household improvements. The repayment source for consumer loans, including 1-4 family residential mortgages and home equity loans, is typically wages.


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West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

The following tables detail changes in the allowance for loan losses by segment for the years ended December 31, 20152017, 20142016 and 20132015.
20152017
  Real Estate      Real Estate    
Commercial Construction and Land 1-4 Family Residential Home Equity Commercial Consumer and Other TotalCommercial Construction and Land 1-4 Family Residential Home Equity Commercial Consumer and Other Total
Beginning balance$4,415
 $2,151
 $466
 $534
 $6,013
 $28
 $13,607
$3,881
 $2,639
 $317
 $478
 $8,697
 $100
 $16,112
Charge-offs(408) 
 (23) (2) 
 (6) (439)(199) 
 
 (176) 
 
 (375)
Recoveries579
 250
 7
 87
 12
 14
 949
232
 398
 15
 28
 13
 7
 693
Provision (1)
(217) (63) 58
 (138) 1,229
 (19) 850
(48) (824) (13) (144) 1,060
 (31) 
Ending balance$4,369
 $2,338
 $508
 $481
 $7,254
 $17
 $14,967
$3,866
 $2,213
 $319
 $186
 $9,770
 $76
 $16,430
20142016
  Real Estate      Real Estate    
Commercial Construction and Land 1-4 Family Residential Home Equity Commercial Consumer and Other TotalCommercial Construction and Land 1-4 Family Residential Home Equity Commercial Consumer and Other Total
Beginning balance$4,199
 $3,032
 $613
 $403
 $5,485
 $59
 $13,791
$4,369
 $2,338
 $508
 $481
 $7,254
 $17
 $14,967
Charge-offs(836) 
 (131) (138) (112) 
 (1,217)(125) (141) (93) 
 
 (47) (406)
Recoveries116
 8
 45
 99
 11
 4
 283
218
 217
 59
 36
 13
 8
 551
Provision (1)
936
 (889) (61) 170
 629
 (35) 750
(581) 225
 (157) (39) 1,430
 122
 1,000
Ending balance$4,415
 $2,151
 $466
 $534
 $6,013
 $28
 $13,607
$3,881
 $2,639
 $317
 $478
 $8,697
 $100
 $16,112
20132015
  Real Estate      Real Estate    
Commercial Construction and Land 1-4 Family Residential Home Equity Commercial Consumer and Other TotalCommercial Construction and Land 1-4 Family Residential Home Equity Commercial Consumer and Other Total
Beginning balance$4,116
 $4,616
 $637
 $568
 $5,564
 $28
 $15,529
$4,415
 $2,151
 $466
 $534
 $6,013
 $28
 $13,607
Charge-offs(742) 
 (116) (119) (624) (33) (1,634)(408) 
 (23) (2) 
 (6) (439)
Recoveries292
 42
 150
 236
 2
 24
 746
579
 250
 7
 87
 12
 14
 949
Provision (1)
533
 (1,626) (58) (282) 543
 40
 (850)(217) (63) 58
 (138) 1,229
 (19) 850
Ending balance$4,199
 $3,032
 $613
 $403
 $5,485
 $59
 $13,791
$4,369
 $2,338
 $508
 $481
 $7,254
 $17
 $14,967
(1)The negative provisions for the various segments are either related to the decline in outstanding balances in each of those portfolio segments during the time periods disclosed and/or improvement in the credit quality factors related to those portfolio segments.


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West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

The following tables show a breakdown of the allowance for loan losses disaggregated on the basis of impairment analysis method by segment as of December 31, 20152017 and 20142016.
December 31, 2015December 31, 2017
  Real Estate      Real Estate    
Commercial Construction and Land 1-4 Family Residential Home Equity Commercial Consumer and Other TotalCommercial Construction and Land 1-4 Family Residential Home Equity Commercial Consumer and Other Total
Ending balance:                          
Individually evaluated for impairment$142
 $
 $
 $270
 $155
 $
 $567
$
 $
 $
 $21
 $118
 $
 $139
Collectively evaluated for impairment4,227
 2,338
 508
 211
 7,099
 17
 14,400
3,866
 2,213
 319
 165
 9,652
 76
 16,291
Total$4,369
 $2,338
 $508
 $481
 $7,254
 $17
 $14,967
$3,866
 $2,213
 $319
 $186
 $9,770
 $76
 $16,430
December 31, 2014December 31, 2016
  Real Estate      Real Estate    
Commercial Construction and Land 1-4 Family Residential Home Equity Commercial Consumer and Other TotalCommercial Construction and Land 1-4 Family Residential Home Equity Commercial Consumer and Other Total
Ending balance:                          
Individually evaluated for impairment$150
 $200
 $
 $229
 $172
 $
 $751
$91
 $
 $
 $276
 $136
 $
 $503
Collectively evaluated for impairment4,265
 1,951
 466
 305
 5,841
 28
 12,856
3,790
 2,639
 317
 202
 8,561
 100
 15,609
Total$4,415
 $2,151
 $466
 $534
 $6,013
 $28
 $13,607
$3,881
 $2,639
 $317
 $478
 $8,697
 $100
 $16,112
The following tables show the recorded investment in loans, exclusive of unamortized fees and costs, disaggregated on the basis of impairment analysis method by segment as of December 31, 20152017 and 20142016.
December 31, 2015December 31, 2017
  Real Estate      Real Estate    
Commercial Construction and Land 1-4 Family Residential Home Equity Commercial Consumer and Other TotalCommercial Construction and Land 1-4 Family Residential Home Equity Commercial Consumer and Other Total
Ending balance:                          
Individually evaluated for impairment$142
 $60
 $352
 $270
 $637
 $
 $1,461
$
 $
 $91
 $193
 $338
 $
 $622
Collectively evaluated for impairment348,909
 174,542
 51,018
 21,479
 643,539
 6,801
 1,246,288
347,482
 207,451
 50,953
 13,618
 885,776
 6,363
 1,511,643
Total$349,051
 $174,602
 $51,370
 $21,749
 $644,176
 $6,801
 $1,247,749
$347,482
 $207,451
 $51,044
 $13,811
 $886,114
 $6,363
 $1,512,265
December 31, 2014December 31, 2016
  Real Estate      Real Estate    
Commercial Construction and Land 1-4 Family Residential Home Equity Commercial Consumer and Other TotalCommercial Construction and Land 1-4 Family Residential Home Equity Commercial Consumer and Other Total
Ending balance:                          
Individually evaluated for impairment$456
 $1,201
 $257
 $229
 $729
 $
 $2,872
$126
 $
 $108
 $317
 $471
 $
 $1,022
Collectively evaluated for impairment316,452
 153,289
 53,240
 24,271
 625,209
 9,318
 1,181,779
333,888
 205,610
 47,076
 17,740
 787,529
 8,355
 1,400,198
Total$316,908
 $154,490
 $53,497
 $24,500
 $625,938
 $9,318
 $1,184,651
$334,014
 $205,610
 $47,184
 $18,057
 $788,000
 $8,355
 $1,401,220

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

Note 5. Premises and Equipment, Net
 
Premises and equipment consisted of the following as of December 31, 20152017 and 20142016.
2015 20142017 2016
Land$2,823
 $2,789
$4,323
 $4,323
Buildings5,305
 3,954
14,423
 14,344
Leasehold improvements3,661
 3,243
3,880
 3,843
Furniture and equipment5,793
 5,525
7,946
 7,637
17,582
 15,511
30,572
 30,147
Accumulated depreciation6,020
 5,523
(7,550) (6,833)
$11,562
 $9,988
$23,022
 $23,314

Note 6. Deposits
 
The scheduled maturities of time deposits were as follows as of December 31, 20152017.
2016$82,377
201714,141
201814,262
$133,323
20192,663
18,698
20202,364
8,451
20213,396
20225,789
$115,807
$169,657
Time deposits as of December 31, 20152017 and 2014,2016, included $43,161100,091 and $52,114,$53,821, respectively, of Certificate of Deposit Account Registry Service deposits, which is a program that coordinates, on a reciprocal basis, a network of banks to spread deposits exceeding the FDIC insurance coverage limits out to numerous institutions in order to provide insurance coverage for all participating deposits.

Also included in total deposits as of December 31, 20152017 and 2014,2016, were $73,639$117,990 and $87,867,$83,089, respectively, of Insured Cash Sweep (ICS) interest-bearing checking and $87,556$213,587 and $157,086,$155,957, respectively, of ICS money market deposits. These are also reciprocal programs providing insurance coverage for all participating deposits. 

Note 7. Subordinated Notes
 
On July 18, 2003, the Company issued $20,619 in junior subordinated debentures to the Company'sCompany’s subsidiary trust, West Bancorporation Capital Trust I. The junior subordinated debentures are senior to the Company'sCompany’s common stock. As a result, the Company must make payments on the junior subordinated debentures (and the related trust preferred securities) before any dividends can be paid on its common stock, and, in the event of the Company'sCompany’s bankruptcy, dissolution or liquidation, the holders of the debentures must be satisfied before any distribution can be made to the holders of the common stock. The Company has the right to defer distributions on the junior subordinated debentures (and the related trust preferred securities) for up to five years, during which time no dividends may be paid to holders of the Company'sCompany’s common stock. The junior subordinated debentures have a 30-year term, do not require any principal amortization, and are callable at the issuer'sissuer’s option. The interest rate is a variable rate based on the three-month3-month LIBOR plus 3.05 percent. At December 31, 20152017, the interest rate was 3.654.74 percent. Interest is payable quarterly, unless deferred. The Company has never deferred an interest payment. The effective cost of the junior subordinated debentures at December 31, 20152017, including amortization of the discount fee,issuance costs, was 3.724.81 percent. Holders of the trust preferred securities associated with the junior subordinated debentures have no voting rights, are unsecured, and rank junior in priority to all the Company'sCompany’s indebtedness and senior to the Company'sCompany’s common stock. The junior subordinated debentures are reported net of unamortized debt issuance costs of $207 and $221 as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. The Company also has a forward-starting interest rate swap contract that effectively converts $20,000 of the variable-rate junior subordinated debentures to a fixed rate beginning on September 30, 2018. See Note 10 for additional information on the interest rate swap. In addition, the junior subordinated debentures qualify as Tier 1 capital of the Company for regulatory purposes.
 


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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

Note 8. Federal Home Loan Bank Advances and Short-termOther Borrowings

The following table presents the terms of all FHLB long-term advances as of December 31, 20152017 and 2014.2016.
 December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 December 31, 2017 December 31, 2016
Maturity Interest Effective   Interest Effective   Interest Effective   Interest Effective  
Date Variable/Fixed Rate 
Rate (1)
 Balance Rate 
Rate (1)
 Balance Variable/Fixed Rate 
Rate (1)
 Balance Rate 
Rate (1)
 Balance
1/29/2018 
Fixed (2)
 2.70% 2.70% $25,000
 2.70% 2.70% $25,000
 Fixed   $
 2.70% 2.70% $25,000
12/23/2019 Variable 0.86% 2.83% 25,000
 0.54% 3.94% 25,000
 Variable 1.93% 3.90% 25,000
 1.28% 3.26% 25,000
6/22/2020 Variable 0.88% 3.02% 25,000
 0.56% 2.40% 25,000
 Variable 1.95% 4.09% 25,000
 1.30% 3.45% 25,000
9/21/2020 Variable 0.88% 4.44% 30,000
 0.56% 2.48% 30,000
 Variable 1.95% 4.44% 30,000
 1.30% 4.44% 30,000
 105,000
     105,000
 80,000
     105,000
Discount for modificationDiscount for modification (6,615)     (8,112)Discount for modification (3,618)     (5,114)
Total FHLB advances, net of discountTotal FHLB advances, net of discount $98,385
     $96,888
Total FHLB advances, net of discount $76,382
     $99,886
(1)The effective interest rate for the variable ratevariable-rate advances includes the effects of the discount fee amortization and interest rate swaps.
(2)Callable quarterly.swaps, if applicable.

Three of the FHLB advances totaling $80,000 were modified on December 21, 2012, to extend their terms and to convert the borrowings to a variable rate that is tied to three-month3-month LIBOR. In connection with these modifications, the Company paid a prepayment fee of $11,152, which is being amortized and recognized as interest expense over the remaining terms of the advances. For the years ended December 31, 20152017, 20142016 and 2013,2015, the Company amortized $1,4971,496, $1,496$1,501 and $1,502,$1,497, respectively, of interest expense related to the discount. Interest is payable quarterly on the FHLB advances. The Company also has an interest rate swap contract that effectively converts the $30,000 variable ratevariable-rate advance to a fixed ratefixed-rate advance. See Note 10 for additional information on the interest rate swaps.swap.
Short-term borrowings consist of FHLB overnight advances. The balances outstanding as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 were $19,000 and $66,000, respectively.
The FHLB advances are collateralized by FHLB stock and real estate loans, as required by the FHLB'sFHLB’s collateral policy. West Bank had additional borrowing capacity of approximately $200,000384,000 at the FHLB as of December 31, 20152017.

As of December 31, 20152017, West Bank had arrangements that would allow it to borrow $67,000 in unsecured federal funds lines of credit at correspondent banks that are available under the correspondent banks'banks’ normal terms. The lines have no stated expiration date.dates. As of December 31, 20152017, there were no amounts outstanding under these arrangements.

Note 9. Long-Term Debt

On June 27, 2013,May 25, 2017, the Company borrowed $16,000 fromentered into a credit agreement with a commercial bank inand borrowed $25,000. This credit agreement replaced a prior credit agreement with the formsame commercial bank that had a remaining outstanding principal balance of $3,000. The additional borrowing was used to make a five-year amortizing securedcapital injection into the Company's subsidiary, West Bank. Principal and interest under the term loannote are payable quarterly over five years . Required quarterly principal payments are $625, with athe balance due at maturity. The Company may make additional principal payments without penalty. The interest rate is variable rate ofat 1.95 percent plus 30-day LIBOR, which totaled 2.193.33 percent as of December 31, 2015. The proceeds were used to finance the repurchase and cancellation of 1,440,592 shares of common stock discussed in Note 14.2017. In the event thatof default, the Company defaults underunaffiliated commercial bank may accelerate payment of the note, the interest rate would increase by an additional 5.00 percent.loan. The outstanding balance on the note was $7,800 and $12,000$22,500 as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.2017. The note is secured by a pledge of certain Company assets, including the stock100 percent of West Bank.Bank’s stock. The prior note that was replaced by this credit agreement had an outstanding balance of $4,600 as of December 31, 2016.

DuringIn June 2013, the Company purchased two commercial lots in Coralville, Iowa for construction of a new eastern Iowa main office. A portion of the purchaseproperty purchased for the branch office in Coralville, Iowa, was financed with a $765, eight-and-one-half-year variable paymentnine year variable-payment contract with a fixed interest rate of 1.25 percent. The outstanding balance on the contract was $417 and $529 as of December 31, 20152017 and 2014 was $615 and $676,2016, respectively.


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West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

Future required principal payments for long-term debt as of December 31, 20152017 are shown in the table below.
2016$3,286
20173,312
20181,514
$2,614
2019115
2,615
2020116
2,616
Thereafter72
20212,537
202212,535
$8,415
$22,917
Note 10. Derivatives

The Company uses interest rate swap agreements to manage the interest rate risk related to the variability of interest payments. The Company has variable ratevariable-rate FHLB advances and junior subordinated notes, which create exposure to variability in interest payments due to changes in interest rates. The notional amounts of the interest rate swaps do not represent amounts exchanged by the counterparties, but rather, the notional amount is used to determine, along with other terms of the derivative, the amounts to be exchanged between the counterparties.

In 2012 and 2013, theThe Company entered into forward-startinghas two interest rate swap transactions toswaps that effectively convert variable ratevariable-rate FHLB advances and junior subordinated notes to fixed rate debt as of the forward-starting dates.fixed-rate debt. The swap transactions were designated as cash flow hedges of the changes in cash flows attributable to changes in LIBOR, the benchmark interest rate being hedged, associated with the interest payments made on the underlying debt with quarterly interest rate reset dates. ThreeAn interest rate swap, with a notional amount of $30,000, became effective in December 2015. In October 2016, the Company entered into a forward-starting interest rate swap transaction with a notional amount of $20,000. The forward starting date of this swap is September 30, 2018.

Interest rate swaps, with a total notional amount of $70,000, have beenwere terminated in prior years, subject to termination fees totaling $541. The termination fees will beare being reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income to interest expense over the remaining life of the underlying cash flows, through June 2020. The remaining interest rate swap, with a notional amount of $30,000, became effective in December 2015.

At the inception of each hedge transaction, the Company represented that the underlying principal balance would remain outstanding throughout the hedge transaction, making it probable that sufficient LIBOR-based interest payments would exist through the maturity date of the swaps. The cash flow hedges were determined to be fully effective during the remaining terms of the swaps. Therefore, the aggregate fair value of the swaps is recorded in other assets or other liabilities with changes in market value recorded in OCI, net of deferred taxes. See Note 1817 for additional fair value information and disclosures. The amounts included in AOCI will be reclassified to interest expense should the hedge no longer be considered effective. No amount of ineffectiveness was included in net income for the years ended December 31, 20152017, 20142016 and 2013,2015, and the Company estimates there will be approximately $601$278 of cash payments and reclassification from AOCI to interest expense through December 31, 20162018. The Company will continue to assess the effectiveness of the remaining hedgehedges on a quarterly basis.

The Company is exposed to credit risk in the event of nonperformance by the interest rate swapswaps counterparty. The Company minimizes this risk by entering into derivative contracts with only large, stable financial institutions, and the Company has not experienced, and does not expect, any losses from counterparty nonperformance on the interest rate swaps. The Company monitors counterparty risk in accordance with the provisions of FASB ASC 815. In addition, the interest rate swap agreementagreements contains language outlining collateral-pledging requirements for each counterparty. Collateral must be posted when the market value exceeds certain threshold limits. Derivative contracts are executed with a Credit Support Annex, which is a bilateral ratings-sensitive agreement that requires collateral postings at established credit threshold levels. These agreements protect the interests of the Company and its counterparties should either party suffer a credit rating deterioration. The Company had pledged $740was required to pledge $210 and $470 of cash as collateral to the counterparty as of December 31, 2015.2017 and 2016, respectively. The CompanyCompany’s counterparty was not required to pledge any collateral to the counterparty as of$980 and $1,070 at December 31, 2014.2017 and 2016, respectively.


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West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

The table below identifies the balance sheet category and fair values of the Company'sCompany’s derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges as of December 31, 20152017 and 2014.2016.
Interest Rate Swaps  
Notional
Amount
 Fair Value 
Balance Sheet
Category
 
Weighted
Average
Receive Rate
 
Weighted
Average Pay
Rate
 Maturity
December 31, 2015  $30,000
 $774
 Other Liabilities 0.88% 2.52% 9/21/2020
              
December 31, 2014  $80,000
 $261
 Other Liabilities 0.54%-0.56%
 2.10%-2.52%
 12/23/2019 - 9/21/2020
   
Notional
Amount
 Fair Value 
Balance Sheet
Category
 
Weighted
Average
Receive Rate
 
Weighted
Average Pay
Rate
 Maturity
December 31, 2017             
Interest rate swap  $30,000
 $(86) Other Liabilities 1.95% 2.52% 9/21/2020
Interest rate swap (1)
  20,000
 895
 Other Assets % 4.81% 9/30/2026
              
December 31, 2016             
Interest rate swap  $30,000
 $(496) Other Liabilities 1.30% 2.52% 9/21/2020
Interest rate swap (1)
  20,000
 1,068
 Other Assets % 4.81% 9/30/2026
(1) This swap is a forward starting swap with a weighted average pay rate of 4.81 percent beginning September 30, 2018. No interest payments are required related to this swap until December 30, 2018.
The following table identifies the pretax gains (losses) recognized on the Company'sCompany’s derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges for the years ended December 31, 2015, 20142017, 2016 and 2013.2015.
   Effective Portion Ineffective Portion
   Amount of 
Reclassified from AOCI into
Income
 
Recognized in Income on
Derivatives
   Pretax Loss  
   Recognized in   Amount of   Amount of
Interest Rate Swaps  OCI Category Gain (Loss) Category Gain (Loss)
2015  $(1,144) Interest Expense $(160) Other Income $
            
2014  $(3,759) Interest Expense $(83) Other Income $
            
2013  $4,159
 Interest Expense $
 Other Income $
   Effective Portion Ineffective Portion
   Amount of 
Reclassified from AOCI into
Income
 
Recognized in Income on
Derivatives
   Pretax Gain (Loss)  
   Recognized in   Amount of   Amount of
   OCI Category Loss Category Gain (Loss)
2017  $(66) Interest Expense $(413) Other Income $
2016  $882
 Interest Expense $(573) Other Income $
2015  $(1,144) Interest Expense $(160) Other Income $


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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

Note 11. Income Taxes

The Company files income tax returns in the U.S. federal and various state jurisdictions.  Income tax returns for the years 20122014 through 20152017 remain open to examination by federal and state taxing authorities.  

During the years ended December 31, 20152017, 20142016 and 20132015, the Company recognized no material income tax related interest or penalties.  No accrued interest or penalties are included in accrued tax expense in the balance sheets as of December 31, 20152017 and 20142016.

The following table shows the components of income taxes for the years ended December 31, 20152017, 20142016 and 20132015.
2015 2014 20132017 2016 2015
Current:          
Federal$8,057
 $4,838
 $5,097
$8,822
 $8,220
 $8,057
State1,558
 1,276
 1,076
1,713
 1,627
 1,558
Deferred:   
  
   
  
Federal112
 608
 1,044
2,527
 115
 112
State(30) (73) 103
306
 (26) (30)
Income taxes$9,697
 $6,649
 $7,320
$13,368
 $9,936
 $9,697

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West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

Total income taxes for the years ended December 31, 20152017, 20142016 and 20132015, differed from the amounts computed by applying the U.S. federal income tax rate of 35 percent to income before income taxes as shown in the following table.
2015 2014 20132017 2016 2015
Amount 
Percent
of Pretax
Income
 Amount 
Percent
of Pretax
Income
 Amount 
Percent
of Pretax
Income
Amount 
Percent
of Pretax
Income
 Amount 
Percent
of Pretax
Income
 Amount 
Percent
of Pretax
Income
Computed expected tax expense$11,004
 35.0 % $9,341
 35.0 % $8,474
 35.0 %$12,753
 35.0 % $11,533
 35.0 % $11,004
 35.0 %
State income tax expense, net of                      
federal income tax benefit957
 3.0
 596
 2.2
 687
 2.8
1,146
 3.2 % 1,004
 3.0 % 957
 3.0 %
Tax-exempt interest income(1,786) (5.7) (1,525) (5.7) (1,331) (5.5)(2,023) (5.6)% (1,823) (5.5)% (1,786) (5.7)%
Nondeductible interest expense to                      
own tax-exempt securities43
 0.1
 42
 0.2
 46
 0.2
152
 0.4 % 58
 0.2 % 43
 0.1 %
Tax-exempt increase in cash value of                      
life insurance(254) (0.8) (256) (1.0) (226) (1.0)
life insurance and gains(336) (0.9)% (381) (1.2)% (254) (0.8)%
Stock compensation(261) (0.7)% 
 
 
 
Effect of change in federal           
income tax rate2,340
 6.4 % 
 
 
 
Utilization of capital loss carryforwards(130) (0.4) (1,318) (4.9) 
 

 
 
 
 (130) (0.4)%
Low income housing tax credits(275) (0.9) (160) (0.6) (79) (0.3)
New markets tax credit
 
 
 
 (273) (1.1)
Federal income tax credits(410) (1.1)% (405) (1.2)% (275) (0.9)%
Other, net138
 0.5
 (71) (0.3) 22
 0.1
7
 
 (50) (0.1)% 138
 0.5 %
Income taxes$9,697
 30.8 % $6,649
 24.9 % $7,320
 30.2 %$13,368
 36.7 % $9,936
 30.2 % $9,697
 30.8 %
NetOn December 22, 2017, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the Tax Act) was signed into law. The Tax Act reduced the federal corporate income tax rate from the previous maximum rate of 35 percent to 21 percent effective for 2018 and future years. The enactment of the legislation and the reduction in the federal income tax rate required a one-time reduction in net deferred tax assets consistedand an increase in tax expense of $2,340 as shown in the following components as of December 31, 2015 and 2014.table above.

 2015 2014
Deferred tax assets:   
Allowance for loan losses$5,687
 $5,171
Net unrealized losses on interest rate swaps473
 99
Intangibles771
 1,079
Other real estate owned
 367
Accrued expenses898
 891
Restricted stock unit compensation358
 184
State net operating loss carryforward1,183
 1,100
Capital loss carryforward355
 797
Other34
 46
 9,759
 9,734
Deferred tax liabilities: 
  
Net deferred loan fees and costs350
 334
Net unrealized gains on securities available for sale210
 255
Premises and equipment674
 565
Other317
 350
 1,551
 1,504
Net deferred tax assets before valuation allowance8,208
 8,230
Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets(1,538) (1,897)
Net deferred tax assets$6,670
 $6,333

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

TheNet deferred tax assets consisted of the following components as of December 31, 2017 and 2016.
 2017 2016
Deferred tax assets:   
Allowance for loan losses$4,108
 $6,123
Net unrealized losses on securities available for sale902
 719
Intangibles101
 462
Accrued expenses176
 706
Restricted stock unit compensation544
 446
State net operating loss carryforward1,379
 1,271
Other86
 190
 7,296
 9,917
Deferred tax liabilities: 
  
Deferred loan costs193
 321
Net unrealized gains on interest rate swaps139
 80
Premises and equipment792
 1,027
Other148
 261
 1,272
 1,689
Net deferred tax assets before valuation allowance6,024
 8,228
Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets(1,379) (1,271)
Net deferred tax assets$4,645
 $6,957
As of December 31, 2017, the parent Company hashad approximately $19,72322,989 of stateIowa net operating loss carryforwards available to offset future stateIowa taxable income.  The Company has approximately $866 of federal and state capital loss carryforwards available to offset future capital gains.  The Company has recorded a valuation allowance against the tax effect of the stateIowa net operating loss carryforwards and federal and state capital loss carryforwards, as management believes it is more likely than not that such carryforwards will expire without being utilized. The stateIowa net operating loss carryforwards expire in 2019 and thereafter. Federal and state capital loss carryforwards of $372 were utilized in 2015, and federal and state capital loss carryforwards of $705 expired in 2015. The remaining federal and state capital loss carryforwards expire in 2016. The valuation allowance for deferred tax assets declined by $359 from December 31, 2014 to December 31, 2015. Of this change, $153 was related to the utilization of federal and state capital loss carryforwards, which had been fully reserved, $289 related to the expiration of the same carryforwards and $(83) related to state net operating loss carryforwards generated in 2015.

Note 12. Stock Compensation Plans

The West Bancorporation, Inc. 20122017 Equity Incentive Plan (the 20122017 Plan) was approved by the stockholders in April 2017. The 2017 Plan replaced the West Bancorporation, Inc. 2012 as a means to attract, retain and reward selected participants. TheEquity Incentive Plan (the 2012 Plan). Upon approval of the 2017 Plan, the 2012 Plan iswas frozen and no new grants will be made under that plan. Outstanding awards under the 2012 Plan will continue pursuant to their terms and provisions. The Plans are administered by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors, which determines the specific individuals who will be granted awards under the 20122017 Plan and the type and amount of any such awards. All employees and directors of, and service providers to, the Company and its subsidiary are eligible to become participants in the 20122017 Plan, except that nonemployees may not be granted incentive stock options. Under the terms of the 20122017 Plan, the Company may grant a total of 800,000 shares of the Company'sCompany’s common stock as nonqualified and incentive stock options, stock appreciation rights and stock awards. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, 437,022 and 564,8572017, 776,000 shares respectively, of the Company'sCompany’s common stock remained available for future awards under the 20122017 Plan.

Under the 20122017 Plan, the Company may grant RSU awards, as determined by the Compensation Committee, that vest upon the completion of future service requirements or specified performance criteria. All RSUs granted through December 31, 20152017 under the 2017 and 2012 PlanPlans were at no cost to the participants, and the participants will not be entitled to receive or accrue dividends until the RSUs have vested. Each RSU entitles the participant to receive one share of common stock on the vesting date or upon the participant'sparticipant’s termination due to death or disability, or upon a change in control of the Company if the RSUs are not fully assumed or if the RSUs are assumed and the participant'sparticipant’s employment is thereafter terminated by the Company without cause or by the participant for good reason. If a participant terminates employment prior to the end of the continuous service period other than due to death, disability or retirement, the award is forfeited. If a participant terminates service due to retirement, the RSUs will continue to vest, subject to provisions of the 2017 and 2012 Plan.Plans.

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West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

The following table includes a summary of nonvested RSU activity for the years ended December 31, 20152017, 20142016 and 2013.2015.
2015 2014 20132017 2016 2015
  Weighted   Weighted   Weighted  Weighted   Weighted   Weighted
  Average   Average   Average  Average   Average   Average
  Grant Date   Grant Date   Grant Date  Grant Date   Grant Date   Grant Date
  Fair Value   Fair Value   Fair Value  Fair Value   Fair Value   Fair Value
(actual amounts, not in thousands)Shares Per Share Shares Per Share Shares Per ShareShares Per Share Shares Per Share Shares Per Share
Nonvested shares, beginning balance179,699
 $13.39
 130,337
 $10.50
 66,793
 $9.74
307,268
 $17.46
 261,833
 $16.67
 179,699
 $13.39
Granted139,500
 19.59
 104,750
 15.30
 77,500
 11.10
138,500
 22.06
 141,000
 18.44
 139,500
 19.59
Vested(57,366) 13.23
 (55,388) 10.20
 (13,956) 10.17
(106,468) 16.79
 (95,565) 16.74
 (57,366) 13.23
Forfeited
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
Nonvested shares, ending balance261,833
 $16.67
 179,699
 $13.39
 130,337
 $10.50
339,300
 $19.55
 307,268
 $17.46
 261,833
 $16.67
The fair value of restricted stock unitRSU awards that vested during 2017, 2016 and 2015 was $2,371, $1,730 and 2014 was $1,118, and $818, respectively. Total compensation costs, including director compensation, recorded for the RSUs were $1,1662,632, $6331,684, and $378$1,166 for the years ended December 31, 20152017, 20142016 and 2013,2015, respectively. The tax benefit related to vesting of RSUs totaled $285, $105 and $155, respectively, for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015. As of December 31, 20152017, there was $3,0003,788 of unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested RSUs, and the weighted average period over which these remaining costs are expected to be recognized was approximately 3.11.5 years.


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Table of Contents
West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

Note 13. Employee Savings and Stock Ownership Plan
 
The Company has an employee savings and stock ownership plan covering substantially all of its employees.  The plan consists of two components.  One component is an employee stock ownership plan.  The other component is a discretionary contribution plan.  Both components have a qualified cash or deferred arrangement under Internal Revenue Code Section 401(k).  Matching and discretionary contributions are determined annually by the Board of Directors.  The Company matched 100 percent of the first six percent of employee deferrals and made an annual discretionary contribution of four percent of eligible employee compensation for the years ended December 31, 2015, 20142017, 2016 and 2013.2015.  Total matching and discretionary contribution expense for the years ended December 31, 20152017, 20142016 and 20132015, totaled $960, $964$961, $1,023 and $913,$960, respectively.

As of December 31, 20152017 and 20142016, the plan held 328,206294,423 and 325,957327,307 shares, respectively, of the Company'sCompany’s common stock.  These shares are included in the computation of earnings per share.  Dividends on shares held in the plan may be reinvested in Company common stock or paid in cash to the participants, at the election of the participants.


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Note 14.Common Stock Repurchase
Table of Contents
West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary

On June 4, 2013, the Company entered into an agreementNotes to repurchase 1,440,592 shares of its common stock from American Equity Investment Life Holding Company and American Equity Life Insurance Company. The shares represented 8.27 percent of the total outstanding common shares of the Company as of that date. The purchase took place on June 5, 2013 at a price of $10.95Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share. The repurchased shares were canceled, thus reducing the Company's total issued and outstanding common shares to 15,969,464 as of that date. The purchase was financed as described in Note 9.share data)

On April 22, 2015, the Board of Directors extended a stock repurchase plan which authorized management to purchase up to $2,000 of the Company's common stock over a twelve month period. The authorization does not require such purchases and is subject to certain restrictions. Shares of Company common stock may be repurchased on the open market or in privately negotiated transactions. The extent to which the shares are repurchased and the timing of such repurchases will depend on market conditions and other corporate considerations. No shares had been repurchased under the authorization as of December 31, 2015.

Note 15.14. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

The following table summarizes the changes in the balances of each component of AOCI, net of tax, for the years ended December 31, 20152017, 20142016 and 20132015.
Noncredit-related        Unrealized Accumulated
Unrealized Unrealized Unrealized AccumulatedUnrealized Gains Other
Gains (Losses) Gains (Losses) Gains OtherGains (Losses) (Losses) on Comprehensive
on Securities on Securities (Losses) on Comprehensiveon Securities Derivatives Income (Loss)
with OTTI without OTTI Derivatives Income (Loss)
Balance, December 31, 2012$(1,759) $4,146
 $(461) $1,926
Current period, other comprehensive income (loss)320
 (8,363) 2,579
 (5,464)
Balance, December 31, 2013(1,439) (4,217) 2,118
 (3,538)
Balance, December 31, 2014$416
 $(162) $254
Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications(21) (709) (730)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other     
comprehensive income(53) 99
 46
Current period, other comprehensive loss(74) (610) (684)
Balance, December 31, 2015342
 (772) (430)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before            
reclassifications1,133
 5,085
 (2,331) 3,887
(1,394) 547
 (847)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other            
comprehensive income306
 (452) 51
 (95)(120) 355
 235
Current period other comprehensive income (loss)1,439
 4,633
 (2,280) 3,792
(1,514) 902
 (612)
Balance, December 31, 2014
 416
 (162) 254
Other comprehensive income (loss) before       
reclassifications
 (21) (709) (730)
Balance, December 31, 2016(1,172) 130
 (1,042)
Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications(697) (41) (738)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other            
comprehensive income
 (53) 99
 46
(368) 256
 (112)
Current period other comprehensive income (loss)
 (74) (610) (684)(1,065) 215
 (850)
Balance, December 31, 2015$
 $342
 $(772) $(430)
Balance, December 31, 2017$(2,237) $345
 $(1,892)

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West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

Note 16.15. Regulatory Capital Requirements

The Company and West Bank are subject to various regulatory capital requirements administered by federal and state banking agencies.  Failure to meet minimum capital requirements (as shown in the following table) can result in certain mandatory and possibly additional discretionary actions by regulators which, if undertaken, could have a direct material effect on the Company'sCompany’s consolidated financial statements.  Under capital adequacy guidelines and the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action, the Company and West Bank must meet specific capital guidelines that involve quantitative measures of their assets, liabilities and certain off-balance-sheet items as calculated under regulatory accounting practices.requirements.  The Company'sCompany’s and West Bank'sBank’s capital amounts and classifications are also subject to qualitative judgments by the regulators about components, risk weightings and other factors. Management believes the Company and West Bank met all capital adequacy requirements to which they were subject as of December 31, 2015.2017.

The Company'sCompany’s and West Bank'sBank’s capital amounts and ratios are presented in the following table as of December 31, 20152017 and 2014.2016.
Preliminary Actual 
For Capital
Adequacy Purposes
 
To Be Well-Capitalized
Under Prompt
Corrective
Action Provisions
 Amount Ratio Amount Ratio Amount Ratio Actual For Capital Adequacy Purposes 
For Capital
Adequacy Purposes With Capital Conservation Buffer
 
To Be Well-Capitalized
Under Prompt
Corrective
Action Provisions
As of December 31, 2015:            
 Amount Ratio Amount Ratio Amount Ratio Amount Ratio
As of December 31, 2017:                
Total Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets)            Total Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets)              
Consolidated $187,790
 12.12% $123,979
 8.00% N/A
 N/A
 $216,420
 11.76% $147,169
 8.00% $170,164
 9.25% N/A
 N/A
West Bank 174,450
 11.32
 123,279
 8.00
 $154,099
 10.00% 235,570
 12.82% 147,049
 8.00% 170,026
 9.25% $183,812
 10.00%
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
      
  
  
  
Tier 1 Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets)  
  
  
  
  
  
Tier 1 Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets)  
      
  
  
  
Consolidated 172,807
 11.15
 92,984
 6.00
 N/A
 N/A
 199,990
 10.87% 110,377
 6.00% 133,372
 7.25% N/A
 N/A
West Bank 159,467
 10.35
 92,460
 6.00
 123,279
 8.00
 219,140
 11.92% 110,287
 6.00% 133,263
 7.25% 147,049
 8.00%
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
      
  
  
  
Common Equity Tier 1 Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets)Common Equity Tier 1 Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets)          Common Equity Tier 1 Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets)          
Consolidated 152,807
 9.86
 69,738
 4.50
 N/A
 N/A
 179,990
 9.78% 82,783
 4.50% 105,778
 5.75% N/A
 N/A
West Bank 159,467
 10.35
 69,345
 4.50
 100,164
 6.50
 219,140
 11.92% 82,715
 4.50% 105,692
 5.75% 119,478
 6.50%
                            
Tier 1 Capital (to Average Assets)  
  
  
  
  
  
Tier 1 Capital (to Average Assets)  
  
    
  
  
  
Consolidated 172,807
 9.91
 69,764
 4.00
 N/A
 N/A
 199,990
 9.60% 83,326
 4.00% 83,326
 4.00% N/A
 N/A
West Bank 159,467
 9.20
 69,352
 4.00
 86,690
 5.00
 219,140
 10.52% 83,287
 4.00% 83,287
 4.00% 104,109
 5.00%
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
      
  
  
  
As of December 31, 2014:  
  
  
  
  
  
As of December 31, 2016:  
  
      
  
  
  
Total Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets)  
  
  
  
  
  
Total Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets)  
      
  
  
  
Consolidated $173,448
 12.81% $108,281
 8.00% N/A
 N/A
 $202,530
 11.87% $136,448
 8.00% $147,108
 8.625% N/A
 N/A
West Bank 163,253
 12.19
 107,099
 8.00
 $133,874
 10.00% 186,118
 11.04% 134,877
 8.00% 145,414
 8.625% $168,597
 10.00%
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
      
  
  
  
Tier 1 Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets)  
  
  
  
  
  
Tier 1 Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets)  
      
  
  
  
Consolidated 159,841
 11.81
 54,140
 4.00
 N/A
 N/A
 186,418
 10.93% 102,336
 6.00% 112,996
 6.625% N/A
 N/A
West Bank 149,646
 11.18
 53,549
 4.00
 80,324
 6.00
 170,006
 10.08% 101,158
 6.00% 111,695
 6.625% 134,877
 8.00%
  
  
  
  
  
  
                
Common Equity Tier 1 Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets)Common Equity Tier 1 Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets)          
Consolidated 166,418
 9.76% 76,752
 4.50% 87,412
 5.125% N/A
 N/A
West Bank 170,006
 10.08% 75,868
 4.50% 86,406
 5.125% 109,588
 6.50%
  
  
      
  
  
  
Tier 1 Capital (to Average Assets)  
  
  
  
  
  
Tier 1 Capital (to Average Assets)  
      
  
  
  
Consolidated 159,841
 10.17
 62,848
 4.00
 N/A
 N/A
 186,418
 10.14% 73,530
 4.00% 73,530
 4.00% N/A
 N/A
West Bank 149,646
 9.62
 62,203
 4.00
 77,754
 5.00
 170,006
 9.34% 72,807
 4.00% 72,807
 4.00% 91,009
 5.00%

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West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

In July 2013,On January 1, 2015, the Federal Reserve BoardCompany and West Bank became subject to the FDIC issued final rules implementingof the Basel III regulatory capital frameworkRule and related Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act changes. The rules revised minimum capital requirements and adjusted prompt corrective action thresholds. The final rules revisedincluded the regulatory capital elements, addedimplementation of a new common equity Tier 1 capital ratio, increased the minimum Tier 1 capital ratio requirement, and implemented a new capital conservation buffer. The rules also permitted certain banking organizations to retain, through a one-time election, the existing treatment for AOCI. The Company and West Bank made the election to retain the existing treatment, which excludes AOCI from regulatory capital amounts. The final rules took effect for the Company and West Bank on January 1, 2015, subject to a transition period for certain parts of the rules.

Beginning in 2016, an additional capital conservation buffer will bethat is added to the minimum requirements for capital adequacy purposes,purposes. The capital conservation buffer is subject to a three year phase-in period. The capital conservation bufferperiod that began January 1, 2016 and will be fully phased-in on January 1, 2019 at 2.502.5 percent. The required phase-in capital conservation buffer was 1.25 percent during 2017 and 0.625 percent during 2016. A banking organization with a conservation buffer of less than 2.50 percent (or the required phase-in amount in years prior to 2019) will be subject to limitations on capital distributions, including dividend payments and certain discretionary bonus payments to executive officers. As of December 31, 2015,2017, the ratios for the Company and West Bank were sufficient to meet the fully phased-in conservation buffer.

The ability of the Company to pay dividends to its stockholders is dependent upon dividends paid by its subsidiary, West Bank. There are currently no restrictions on such dividends, besides the general restrictions imposed on all banks by applicable law.

The Company'sCompany’s tangible common equity ratio was 8.718.42 percent and 8.688.92 percent at December 31, 20152017 and 2014,2016, respectively.  The tangible common equity ratio is computed by dividing total equity less preferred stock and intangible assets by total assets less intangible assets. As of December 31, 20152017 and 20142016, the Company had no intangible assets or preferred stock.

Note 17.16. Commitments and Contingencies
 
The Company leases real estate under a number of noncancelable operating lease agreements.  Rent expense related to these leases was $1,7411,344, $1,8231,293 and $1,7751,741, for the years ended December 31, 20152017, 20142016 and 20132015, respectively.

Total estimated minimum rental commitments were as follows as of December 31, 20152017.
2016$1,411
20171,400
20181,400
20191,402
20201,402
Thereafter7,809
 $14,824
The commitments above exclude a leased branch facility for which the Company entered into a purchase agreement on December 31, 2015. The Company purchased the building for $4,512 in February 2016.

During 2015, the Company began construction on a new office in Rochester, Minnesota. Progress billings of approximately $455 have been paid on the $6,580 contract through December 31, 2015.

2018$1,509
20191,547
20201,547
20211,493
20221,462
Thereafter5,341
 $12,899
The Company had commitments to invest in qualified affordable housing projects totaling $4,292$6,130 and $4,556$5,768 as of December 31, 20152017 and 2014,2016, respectively.

Required reserve balances:  West Bank is required to maintain an average reserve balance with the Federal Reserve Bank, which is included in cash and due from banks.  Required reserve balances were approximately $4,579$6,086 and $3,742$6,393 as of December 31, 20152017 and 2014,2016, respectively.


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West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

Financial instruments with off-balance-sheetoff-balance sheet risk:  The Company is party to financial instruments with off-balance-sheetoff-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.  These instruments involve, to varying degrees, elements of credit risk in excess of the amount recognized in the consolidated balance sheets. The Company'sCompany’s exposure to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by the other party to the financial instrument for commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit is represented by the contractual amount of those instruments.  The Company uses the same credit policies in making commitments and conditional obligations that it uses for on-balance-sheeton-balance sheet instruments.  Commitments to lend are subject to borrowers’ continuing compliance with existing credit agreements. The Company'sCompany’s commitments consisted of the following approximate amounts as of December 31, 20152017 and 20142016.
2015 20142017 2016
Commitments to extend credit$558,633
 $441,124
$617,949
 $614,681
Standby letters of credit8,720
 14,595
5,996
 5,487
$567,353
 $455,719
$623,945
 $620,168

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Table of Contents
West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

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.  Commitments to extend creditcontract and generally expire within one year.  Home equity commitmentsCommitments to extend credit of approximately $15,20699,105 at December 31, 20152017, expire within ten years.beyond one year.  Since many of the commitments are expected to expire without being drawn upon, the total commitment amounts do not necessarily represent future cash requirements.  The Company evaluates each customer'scustomer’s creditworthiness on a case-by-case basis.  The amount of collateral obtained is based on management'smanagement’s credit evaluation of the party.  Collateral held varies, but may include accounts receivable, inventory, equipment, and residential and commercial real estate.

Standby letters of credit are conditional commitments issued by the Company to guarantee the performance of a customer to a third party and generally expire within one year.  Those guarantees are primarily issued to support public and private borrowing arrangements.  The credit risk involved in issuing letters of credit is essentially the same as that involved in extending loan facilities to customers.  Collateral held varies as specified above and is required in instances the Company deems necessary.  In the event the customer does not perform in accordance with the terms of the third-party agreement, West Bank would be required to fund the commitment.  The maximum potential amount of future payments West Bank could be required to make is represented by the contractual amount for letters of credit shown in the table above.  If the commitment is funded, West Bank would be entitled to seek recovery from the customer.  At December 31, 20152017 and 20142016, no amounts have been recorded as liabilities for West Bank'sBank’s potential obligations under these guarantees.

West Bank haspreviously executed MPF Master Commitments (Commitments) with the FHLB of Des Moines to deliver residential mortgage loans and to guarantee the payment of any realized losses that exceed the FHLB'sFHLB’s first loss account for mortgages delivered under the Commitments.  West Bank receives credit enhancement fees from the FHLB for providing this guarantee and continuing to assist with managing the credit risk of the MPF Program residential mortgage loans.  The term of the most recent Commitment was through January 16, 2015 and was not renewed.  At December 31, 20152017, the liability represented by the present value of the credit enhancement fees less any expected losses in the mortgages delivered under the Commitments was approximately $34396. The outstanding balance of mortgage loans sold under the MPF Program was $139,152$94,292 and $164,750$112,084 at December 31, 20152017 and 2014,2016, respectively.

Concentrations of credit risk:  Substantially all of the Company'sCompany’s loans, commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit have been granted to customers in the Company'sCompany’s market areas (a 50-mile radius of the greater Des Moines, Iowa, metropolitan area, a 30-mile radius of the Iowa City, Iowa, metropolitan area and a 30-mile radius of the Rochester, Minnesota, metropolitan area).  The concentrations of credit by type of loan are set forth in Note 4.  The distribution of commitments to extend credit approximates the distribution of loans outstanding.  Standby letters of credit were granted primarily to commercial borrowers. Approximately 45 percent of the securities issued by state and political subdivisions involve governmental entities within the state of Iowa. The remaining securities issued by state and political subdivisions were issued by government entities in 17 other states with similar credit risks.

Contingencies:  Neither the Company nor West Bank is a party, and no property of these entities is subject, to any material pending legal proceedings, other than ordinary routine litigation incidental to West Bank’s business. The Company does not know of any proceeding contemplated by a governmental authority against the Company or West Bank.


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Table of Contents
West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

Contingencies:  On September 29, 2010, West Bank was sued in a class action lawsuit filed in the Iowa District Court for Polk County. Plaintiffs, Darla and Jason T. Legg, asserted nonsufficient funds fees charged by West Bank on debit card transactions were usurious under the Iowa Consumer Credit Code and that the sequence West Bank formerly used to post debit card transactions for payment violated various alleged duties of good faith and ordinary care. Plaintiffs sought alternative remedies including injunctive relief, damages (including treble damages), punitive damages, refund of bank fees, and attorney fees. The trial court entered orders on preliminary motions on March 4, 2014. It dismissed one of Plaintiffs’ claims and found that factual disputes precluded summary judgment in West Bank’s favor on the remaining claims. In addition, the court certified two classes for further proceedings. West Bank appealed the adverse rulings to the Iowa Supreme Court. On January 22, 2016, the Iowa Supreme Court filed two opinions that affirmed and reversed parts of the trial court rulings. The court reversed the trial court by holding the Iowa Consumer Credit Code usury claim and an unjust enrichment claim should be dismissed. Certification of classes on those claims was also reversed. The court affirmed the trial court by holding that the Plaintiffs can proceed with a breach of express contract claim based on a 2006 change in debit card payment sequencing coupled with the alleged lack of notice concerning that change. West Bank believes it has additional defenses to this claim and intends to continue vigorously defending the action after it is remanded to the district court. The amount of potential loss, if any, cannot now be reasonably estimated due to significant additional unresolved factual and legal issues that must be determined through further proceedings.

Except as described above, neither the Company nor West Bank is a party, and no property of these entities is subject, to any other material pending legal proceedings, other than ordinary routine litigation incidental to West Bank's business. The Company does not know of any proceeding contemplated by a governmental authority against the Company or West Bank.

Note 18.17. Fair Value Measurements

Accounting guidance on fair value measurements and disclosures defines fair value and establishes a framework for measuring the fair value of assets and liabilities using a hierarchy system. Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants in the market in which the reporting entity transacts business.

The Company'sCompany’s balance sheet contains investment securities available for sale and derivative instruments that are recorded at fair value on a recurring basis. The three-level valuation hierarchy for disclosure of fair value is as follows:

Level 1 uses quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

Level 2 uses observable market-based inputs or unobservable inputs that are corroborated by market data.

Level 3 uses unobservable inputs that are not corroborated by market data.

The Company'sCompany’s policy is to recognize transfers between Levels at the end of each reporting period, if applicable. There were no transfers between Levels of the fair value hierarchy during 20152017 or 20142016.

The following is a description of valuation methodologies used for financial assets and liabilities recorded at fair value on a recurring basis.

Investment securities available for sale: When available, quoted market prices are used to determine the fair value of investment securities. If quoted market prices are not available, the Company determines fair value based on various sources and may apply matrix pricing with observable prices for similar bonds where a price for the identical bond is not observable. The fair values of these securities are determined by pricing models that consider observable market data such as interest rate volatilities, LIBOR yield curve, credit spreads, prices from market makers and live trading systems. Level 1 securities include certain corporate bonds and preferred stocks, and would include U.S. Treasuries, if any were held. Level 2 securities include certain corporate bonds, U.S. government and agency securities, collateralized mortgage obligations, mortgage-backed securities, asset-backed securities, state and political subdivision securities and one trust preferred security. At December 31, 2017, the Company classified all of its corporate bonds as Level 2. For this portfolio, the Company has elected to a use matrix pricing model as a practical expedient to individual quoted market prices. The Company currently holds no investment securities classified as Level 3.


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West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

Generally, management obtains the fair value of investment securities at the end of each reporting period via a third-party pricing service. Management with the assistance of an independent investment advisory firm, reviewed the valuation process used by the third party and believed that process was valid. On a quarterly basis, management corroborates the fair values of a randomly selected sample of investment securities by obtaining pricing from an independent investment advisoryportfolio management firm and compares the two sets of fair values. Any significant variances are reviewed and investigated. In addition, the Company hasFor a practicesample of further testingsecurities, the fair values of a sample of securities. For that sample, the prices are further validated by management, with assistance from an independent investment advisoryportfolio management firm, by obtaining details of the inputs used by the pricing service. Those inputs were independently tested, and management concluded the fair values were consistent with GAAP requirements and the investment securities were properly classified in the fair value hierarchy.

Derivative instruments: The Company'sCompany’s derivative instruments consist of interest rate swaps, which are accounted for as cash flow hedges. The Company'sCompany’s derivative position ispositions are classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy and isare valued using models generally accepted in the financial services industry and that use actively quoted or observable market input values from external market data providers and/or nonbinding broker-dealer quotations. The fair value of the derivatives are determined using discounted cash flow models. These models’ key assumptions include the contractual terms of the respective contract along with significant observable inputs, including interest rates, yield curves, nonperformance risk and volatility. Derivative contracts are executed with a Credit Support Annex, which is a bilateral ratings-sensitive agreement that requires collateral postings at established credit threshold levels. These agreements protect the interests


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Table of the CompanyContents
West Bancorporation, Inc. and its counterparties should either party suffer a credit rating deterioration.Subsidiary

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

The following tables present the balances of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis by level as of December 31, 20152017 and 20142016.
 2015 2017
Description Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3
Financial assets:                
Investment securities available for sale:                
U.S. government agencies and corporations $2,692
 $
 $2,692
 $
State and political subdivisions 73,079
 
 73,079
 
 $146,313
 $
 $146,313
 $
Collateralized mortgage obligations 132,615
 
 132,615
 
 159,932
 
 159,932
 
Mortgage-backed securities 101,088
 
 101,088
 
 60,429
 
 60,429
 
Asset-backed securities 45,195
 
 45,195
 
Trust preferred security 1,105
 
 1,105
 
 2,006
 
 2,006
 
Corporate notes and equity securities 10,135
 9,835
 300
 
Corporate notes 30,344
 
 30,344
 
Derivative instrument, interest rate swap 895
 
 895
 
                
Financial liabilities:                
Derivative instruments, interest rate swaps $774
 $
 $774
 $
Derivative instrument, interest rate swap $86
 $
 $86
 $
  2014
Description Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3
Financial assets:        
Investment securities available for sale:        
U.S. government agencies and corporations $12,820
 $
 $12,820
 $
State and political subdivisions 52,359
 
 52,359
 
Collateralized mortgage obligations 125,870
 
 125,870
 
Mortgage-backed securities 66,153
 
 66,153
 
Trust preferred security 918
 
 918
 
Corporate notes and equity securities 14,670
 14,370
 300
 
         
Financial liabilities:        
Derivative instruments, interest rate swaps $261
 $
 $261
 $

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Table of Contents
  2016
Description Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3
Financial assets:        
Investment securities available for sale:        
U.S. government agencies and corporations $2,593
 $
 $2,593
 $
State and political subdivisions 64,336
 
 64,336
 
Collateralized mortgage obligations 101,950
 
 101,950
 
Mortgage-backed securities 80,158
 
 80,158
 
Trust preferred security 1,250
 
 1,250
 
Corporate notes 10,350
 10,050
 300
 
Derivative instrument, interest rate swap 1,068
 
 1,068
 
         
Financial liabilities:        
Derivative instrument, interest rate swap $496
 $
 $496
 $
West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

The following table presents changes in investment securities available for sale with significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013. The activity in the table consists of one pooled trust preferred security, which was sold in December 2014.
Investment securities available for sale:2015 2014 2013
Beginning balance$
 $1,850
 $1,334
Transfer into Level 3
 
 
Total gains or (losses): 
  
  
Included in earnings
 (493) 
Included in other comprehensive income
 2,321
 516
Sale of security
 (3,593) 
Principal payments
 (85) 
Ending balance$
 $
 $1,850
Certain assets are measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis. That is, they are subject to fair value adjustments in certain circumstances (for example, when there is evidence of impairment). The following tables present those assets carried on the balance sheet by caption and by level within the valuation hierarchy asAs of December 31, 20152017 and 2014.
 2015
Description Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3
Impaired loans $98
 $
 $
 $98
Other real estate owned 
 
 
 
 2014
Description Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3
Impaired loans $1,266
 $
 $
 $1,266
Other real estate owned 2,235
 
 
 2,235
Loans in the previous tables consist2016, impaired loans with a net book value of impaired loans$0 and $0, respectively, for which a fair value adjustment was recorded.recorded, were classified as Level 3. Impaired loans are evaluated and valued at the lower of cost or fair value when the loan is identified as impaired. Fair value is measured based on the value of the collateral securing these loans. Collateral may beThe types of collateral vary widely and could include accounts receivables, inventory, a variety of equipment and real estate or business assets such as equipment, inventory or accounts receivable. Fair value is determined by management evaluations or independent appraisals.  Appraised or reported values may be discounted based on management's opinions concerning market developments or the client's business.  Other real estate owned in the tables above consists of property acquired through foreclosures and loan settlements.  Property acquired is carried at fair value of the property less estimated disposal costs. Fair value of other real estate owned is determined by management obtaining appraisals or other market value information at the time of acquisition, is updated at least annually and may be discounted.

The following tables present additional quantitative information about assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis for which the Company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value as of December 31, 2015 and 2014.
  December 31, 2015
  Fair Value Valuation Technique Unobservable Input Range (Average)
Impaired loans $98
 Evaluation of collateral Estimation of value NM*
  December 31, 2014
  Fair Value Valuation Technique Unobservable Input Range (Average)
Impaired loans $1,266
 Evaluation of collateral Estimation of value NM*
Other real estate owned 2,235
 Appraisal Appraisal adjustment 0.0% - 25.0% (25.0%)
* Not Meaningful.estate. Evaluations of the underlying assets are completed for each impaired loan with a specific reserve. The types of collateral vary widely and could include accounts receivable, inventory, a variety of equipment and real estate. Collateral evaluations are reviewed and discounted as appropriate based on knowledge of the specific type of collateral. In the case of real estate, an independent appraisal may be obtained. Types of discounts considered includeincluded aging of receivables, condition of the collateral, potential market for the collateral and estimated disposal costs. These discounts will vary from loan to loan thus providing a range would notand may be meaningful.discounted based on management’s opinions concerning market developments or the client’s business.


9392

Table of Contents
West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

GAAP requires disclosure of the fair value of financial assets and liabilities, including those that are not measured and reported at fair value on a recurring or nonrecurring basis. The methodologies for estimating the fair value of financial assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring or nonrecurring basis are discussed above. The methodologies for other financial assets and liabilities are discussed below.

Cash and due from banks: The carrying amount approximates fair value.

Federal funds sold: The carrying amount approximates fair value.

Investment securities held to maturity: The fair values of these securities, which are all state and political subdivisions, are determined by the same method described previously for investment securities available for sale.

FHLB stock: The fair value of this restricted stock is estimated at its carrying value and redemption price of $100 per share.

Loans: The fair values of fixed ratefixed-rate loans are estimated using discounted cash flow analysis based on observable market interest rates currently being offered for loans with similar terms to borrowers with similar credit quality. The carrying values of variable ratevariable-rate loans approximate their fair values.

Deposits: The carrying amounts for demand and savings deposits, which represent the amounts payable on demand, approximate their fair values. The fair values for time deposits are estimated using discounted cash flow analysis, based on observable market interest rates currently being offered on time deposits with similar terms.

Accrued interest receivable and payable: The fair values of both accrued interest receivable and payable approximate their carrying amounts.

Borrowings: The carrying amounts of federal funds purchased, short-term borrowings, variable ratevariable-rate FHLB advances and variable ratevariable-rate long-term borrowings approximate their fair values. Fair values of subordinated notes, fixed ratefixed-rate FHLB advances and other long-term borrowings are estimated using a discounted cash flow analysis, based on observable market interest rates currently being offered with similar terms.

Commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit: The approximate fair values of commitments and standby letters of credit are based on the fees currently charged to enter into similar agreements, taking into account the remaining terms of the agreements and creditworthiness of the counterparties.


9493

Table of Contents
West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

The following table presents the carrying amounts and approximate fair values of financial assets and liabilities as of December 31, 20152017 and 2014.2016.
 2015 2014 2017 2016
Fair Value
Hierarchy Level
 
Carrying
Amount
 
Approximate
Fair Value
 
Carrying
Amount
 
Approximate
Fair Value
Fair Value
Hierarchy Level
 
Carrying
Amount
 
Approximate
Fair Value
 
Carrying
Amount
 
Approximate
Fair Value
Financial assets:                
Cash and due from banksLevel 1 $57,329
 $57,329
 $27,936
 $27,936
Level 1 $34,952
 $34,952
 $40,943
 $40,943
Federal funds soldLevel 1 15,322
 15,322
 11,845
 11,845
Level 1 12,997
 12,997
 35,893
 35,893
Investment securities available for saleSee previous table 320,714
 320,714
 272,790
 272,790
See previous table 444,219
 444,219
 260,637
 260,637
Investment securities held to maturityLevel 2 51,259
 51,918
 51,343
 51,501
Level 2 45,527
 45,890
 48,386
 47,789
Federal Home Loan Bank stockLevel 1 12,447
 12,447
 15,075
 15,075
Level 1 9,174
 9,174
 10,771
 10,771
Loans, net (1)
Level 2 1,231,721
 1,235,336
 1,170,438
 1,199,832
Level 2 1,494,070
 1,490,166
 1,383,758
 1,382,569
Accrued interest receivableLevel 1 4,688
 4,688
 4,425
 4,425
Level 1 7,344
 7,344
 5,321
 5,321
Interest rate swapSee previous table 895
 895
 1,068
 1,068
Financial liabilities:  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
DepositsLevel 2 $1,440,729
 $1,440,762
 $1,270,462
 $1,270,987
Level 2 $1,810,813
 $1,810,924
 $1,546,605
 $1,546,307
Federal funds purchasedLevel 1 2,760
 2,760
 2,975
 2,975
Level 1 545
 545
 9,690
 9,690
Short-term borrowingsLevel 1 19,000
 19,000
 66,000
 66,000
Subordinated notesLevel 2 20,619
 11,908
 20,619
 13,330
Subordinated notes, netLevel 2 20,412
 15,357
 20,398
 12,703
Federal Home Loan Bank advances, netLevel 2 98,385
 98,812
 96,888
 96,312
Level 2 76,382
 76,382
 99,886
 99,959
Long-term debtLevel 2 8,415
 8,324
 12,676
 12,571
Long-term debt, netLevel 2 22,917
 22,860
 5,126
 5,054
Accrued interest payableLevel 1 343
 343
 419
 419
Level 1 736
 736
 280
 280
Interest rate swapsLevel 2 774
 774
 261
 261
Interest rate swapSee previous table 86
 86
 496
 496
Off-balance-sheet financial instruments:  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
Commitments to extend creditLevel 3 
 
 
 
Level 3 
 
 
 
Standby letters of creditLevel 3 
 
 
 
Level 3 
 
 
 
(1)All loans are Level 2 except impaired loans of $98 and $1,266 as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, which are Level 3.


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Table of Contents
West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

Note 19.18. West Bancorporation, Inc. (Parent Company Only) Condensed Financial Statements
Balance Sheets
December 31, 2015 and 2014
December 31, 2017 and 2016December 31, 2017 and 2016
 2015 2014 2017 2016
ASSETS        
Cash $13,775
 $8,792
 $3,226
 $3,945
Investment in West Bank 159,038
 149,980
 216,693
 168,302
Investment in West Bancorporation Capital Trust I 619
 619
 619
 619
Premises, net 7,898
 6,652
 
 18,194
Other assets 355
 7,632
 1,034
 1,256
Total assets $181,685
 $173,675
 $221,572
 $192,316
        
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY  
  
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY  
  
LIABILITIES  
  
  
  
Accrued expenses and other liabilities $274
 $205
 $562
 $1,416
Subordinated notes 20,619
 20,619
Long-term debt 8,415
 12,676
Subordinated notes, net 20,412
 20,398
Long-term debt, net 22,500
 5,126
Total liabilities 29,308
 33,500
 43,474
 26,940
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY  
  
STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY  
  
Preferred stock 
 
 
 
Common stock 3,000
 3,000
 3,000
 3,000
Additional paid-in capital 20,067
 18,971
 23,463
 21,462
Retained earnings 129,740
 117,950
 153,527
 141,956
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (430) 254
Total stockholders' equity 152,377
 140,175
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $181,685
 $173,675
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (1,892) (1,042)
Total stockholders’ equity 178,098
 165,376
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $221,572
 $192,316

9695

Table of Contents
West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

Statements of Income
Years Ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015
 2015 2014 2013 2017 2016 2015
Operating income:            
Equity in net income of West Bank $22,546
 $19,773
 $18,609
 $23,933
 $23,544
 $22,546
Equity in net income of West Bancorporation Capital Trust I 21
 21
 21
 27
 23
 21
Gain on disposition of premises 
 1,627
 
Realized investment securities loss 
 (493) 
Intercompany rental income 207
 126
 145
 333
 503
 207
Other rental income 43
 
 
 21
 50
 43
Total operating income 22,817
 21,054
 18,775
 24,314
 24,120
 22,817
Operating expenses:            
Interest on subordinated notes 705
 753
 711
 901
 728
 705
Interest on long-term debt 232
 297
 188
 517
 145
 232
Occupancy 170
 78
 49
 187
 280
 170
Other real estate owned 10
 1,725
 1,511
Other expenses 486
 604
 686
 602
 443
 496
Total operating expenses 1,603
 3,457
 3,145
 2,207
 1,596
 1,603
Income before income taxes 21,214
 17,597
 15,630
 22,107
 22,524
 21,214
Income tax benefits (528) (2,443) (1,261) (963) (492) (528)
Net income $21,742
 $20,040
 $16,891
 $23,070
 $23,016
 $21,742



9796

Table of Contents
West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

Statements of Cash Flows
Years Ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015
 2015 2014 2013 2017 2016 2015
Cash Flows from Operating Activities:            
Net income $21,742
 $20,040
 $16,891
 $23,070
 $23,016
 $21,742
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by    
  
    
  
operating activities:    
  
    
  
Equity in net income of West Bank (22,546) (19,773) (18,609) (23,933) (23,544) (22,546)
Equity in net income of West Bancorporation Capital Trust I (21) (21) (21) (27) (23) (21)
Dividends received from West Bank 13,900
 12,700
 19,200
 16,800
 14,400
 13,900
Dividends received from West Bancorporation Capital Trust I 21
 21
 21
 27
 23
 21
Realized investment securities loss 
 493
 
Amortization 23
 26
 20
 17
 20
 23
Depreciation 139
 39
 43
 178
 244
 139
Gain on disposition of premises 
 (1,627) 
Write-down of other real estate owned 
 1,681
 1,341
Loss on sale of other real estate owned 8
 10
 70
Deferred income tax (benefits) 99
 362
 (412) (240) 97
 99
Change in assets and liabilities:            
(Increase) decrease in other assets 1,428
 (1,248) (217) 50
 (79) 1,436
Decrease in accrued expenses and other liabilities (31) (32) (137)
Increase (decrease) in accrued expenses and other liabilities (549) 641
 (31)
Net cash provided by operating activities 14,762
 12,671
 18,190
 15,393
 14,795
 14,762
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:  
  
  
  
  
  
Proceeds from paydown on securities available for sale 
 85
 
Proceeds from sales of premises 
 3,000
 
 18,032
 
 
Purchases of premises (1,386) (4,097) (1,165) (16) (10,539) (1,386)
Proceeds from sales of other real estate owned 2,227
 1,530
 280
 
 
 2,227
Proceeds from settlement of other assets 3,593
 
 
 
 
 3,593
Capital contribution to West Bank 
 
 (10,000) (40,000) 
 
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities 4,434
 518
 (10,885) (21,984) (10,539) 4,434
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:  
  
  
  
  
  
Proceeds from long-term debt 
 
 16,000
 22,000
 
 
Principal payments on long-term debt (4,261) (3,260) (830) (4,629) (3,286) (4,261)
Common stock cash dividends (9,952) (7,842) (6,995) (11,499) (10,800) (9,952)
Repurchase and cancellation of common stock 
 
 (15,774)
Net cash used in financing activities (14,213) (11,102) (7,599)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities 5,872
 (14,086) (14,213)
Net increase (decrease) in cash 4,983
 2,087
 (294) (719) (9,830) 4,983
Cash:      
      
Beginning 8,792
 6,705
 6,999
 3,945
 13,775
 8,792
Ending $13,775
 $8,792
 $6,705
 $3,226
 $3,945
 $13,775
            
Supplemental Disclosure of Noncash Investing and Financing Activities:      
Purchase of premises financed by issuance of long-term debt $
 $
 $765
Transfer of securities available for sale to other assets, sale not settled 
 3,593
 



9897

Table of Contents
West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

Note 20.19. Selected Quarterly Financial Data (unaudited)
 2015 2017
Three months ended March 31 June 30 September 30 December 31 March 31 June 30 September 30 December 31
Interest income $14,521
 $14,819
 $15,147
 $15,660
 $16,791
 $18,166
 $18,560
 $19,517
Interest expense 1,558
 1,465
 1,441
 1,529
 2,402
 3,073
 3,529
 3,973
Net interest income 12,963
 13,354
 13,706
 14,131
 14,389
 15,093
 15,031
 15,544
Provision for loan losses 
 200
 200
 450
 
 
 
 
Net interest income after provision for loan losses 12,963
 13,154
 13,506
 13,681
 14,389
 15,093
 15,031
 15,544
Noninterest income 1,860
 1,922
 1,935
 2,486
 2,160
 2,316
 2,264
 1,908
Noninterest expense 7,446
 7,443
 7,549
 7,630
 8,043
 8,172
 8,020
 8,032
Income before income taxes 7,377
 7,633
 7,892
 8,537
 8,506
 9,237
 9,275
 9,420
Income taxes 2,274
 2,361
 2,466
 2,596
 2,400
 2,872
 2,870
 5,226
Net income $5,103
 $5,272
 $5,426
 $5,941
 $6,106
 $6,365
 $6,405
 $4,194
                
Basic earnings per common share $0.32
 $0.33
 $0.34
 $0.37
 $0.38
 $0.39
 $0.40
 $0.26
Diluted earnings per common share $0.32
 $0.33
 $0.34
 $0.37
 $0.37
 $0.39
 $0.39
 $0.26
  2014
Three months ended March 31 June 30 September 30 December 31
Interest income $13,346
 $13,661
 $13,860
 $14,434
Interest expense 1,538
 1,545
 1,571
 1,502
Net interest income 11,808
 12,116
 12,289
 12,932
Provision for loan losses 
 150
 100
 500
Net interest income after provision for loan losses 11,808
 11,966
 12,189
 12,432
Noninterest income 2,553
 2,318
 2,622
 2,803
Noninterest expense 8,002
 7,364
 7,386
 9,250
Income before income taxes 6,359
 6,920
 7,425
 5,985
Income taxes 1,959
 2,181
 2,362
 147
Net income $4,400
 $4,739
 $5,063
 $5,838
         
Basic earnings per common share $0.28
 $0.30
 $0.32
 $0.36
Diluted earnings per common share $0.27
 $0.30
 $0.32
 $0.36


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Table of Contents
  2016
Three months ended March 31 June 30 September 30 December 31
Interest income $15,524
 $16,209
 $16,696
 $16,565
Interest expense 1,825
 1,936
 1,975
 2,140
Net interest income 13,699
 14,273
 14,721
 14,425
Provision for loan losses 200
 500
 200
 100
Net interest income after provision for loan losses 13,499
 13,773
 14,521
 14,325
Noninterest income 2,230
 1,903
 1,919
 1,930
Noninterest expense 7,799
 7,819
 7,993
 7,537
Income before income taxes 7,930
 7,857
 8,447
 8,718
Income taxes 2,234
 2,381
 2,634
 2,687
Net income $5,696
 $5,476
 $5,813
 $6,031
         
Basic earnings per common share $0.35
 $0.34
 $0.36
 $0.37
Diluted earnings per common share $0.35
 $0.34
 $0.36
 $0.37



ITEM 9.  CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

Within the two years prior to the date of the most recent financial statements, there have been no changes in or disagreements with accountants of the Company.

ITEM 9A.  CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Disclosure Controls and Procedures

As of the end of the period covered by this report, an evaluation of the effectiveness of the Company'sCompany’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rule 240.13a-15(e)13a-15(e)) was performed under the supervision and with the participation of the Company'sCompany’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer. Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer have concluded that the Company'sCompany’s current disclosure controls and procedures arewere effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Company in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act iswas recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC'sSEC’s rules and forms.

Management'sManagement’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

Management of the Company is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act). The Company'sCompany’s internal control system is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance to the Company'sCompany’s management and Board of Directors regarding the preparation and fair presentation of published financial statements.

Internal control over financial reporting of the Company includes those policies and procedures that pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions of the Company; provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the Company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the Company; and provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the Company’s assets that could have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

Because of inherent limitations in any system of internal control, no matter how well designed, misstatements due to error or fraud may occur and not be detected, including the possibility of the circumvention or overriding of controls. Accordingly, even effective internal control over financial reporting can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation. Further, because of changes in conditions, internal control effectiveness may vary over time.

Management assessed the Company'sCompany’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2015.2017. This assessment was based on criteria for effective internal control over financial reporting set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission in Internal Control-Integrated Framework in 2013. Based on this assessment, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer assert that the Company maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 20152017 based on the specified criteria.

The Company'sCompany’s independent registered public accounting firm, which audited the consolidated financial statements included in this annual report, has issued a report on the Company'sCompany’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2015,2017 that appears in Item 8 of this Form 10-K.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

There were no changes in the Company'sCompany’s internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act) that occurred during the fourth fiscal quarter of 20152017 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company'sCompany’s internal control over financial reporting.

ITEM 9B.  OTHER INFORMATION

The Company has no information to be disclosed under this item.


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PART III

ITEM 10.  DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS, AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

The information for directors and executive officers as required pursuant to Item 401 of Regulation S-K can be found under the captions "Proposals for Annual Meeting—Item“Proposal 1. - Election of Directors"Directors” and "Governance“Governance and Board of Directors—Executive Officers of the Company"Company” in the Company'sCompany’s definitive Proxy Statement on Form DEF 14A, which was filed with the SEC on March 3, 20161, 2018, and is incorporated herein by reference.

Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance

Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act requires that the Company'sCompany’s directors and executive officers and persons who own more than 10 percent of the Company'sCompany’s common stock file initial reports of ownership and reports of changes of ownership with the SEC and Nasdaq.SEC. Reporting persons are required by SEC regulations to furnish the Company with copies of all Section 16(a) forms they file. The Company has not received any Section 16(a) forms indicating that any one person owns more than 10 percent of the Company'sCompany’s stock, and the Company does not know of any one stockholder who owns more than 10 percent of the Company'sCompany’s stock. Based solely on its review of the copies of Section 16(a) forms received from its directors and executive officers and written representations that no other reports were required, the Company believes that all Section 16(a) reports applicable to its directors and officers during 20152017 were filed on a timely basis, with the exception of David D. Nelson, Chief Executive Officer, Director and President,Joyce A. Chapman, a director, who filed a Form 5 reporting four gifting transactions pursuant to a dividend reinvestment arrangement that should have been reported earlier on Form 4s.4s or Form 5s.

Code of Ethics

The Company has adopted a Code of Conduct that applies to all directors, officers and employees, including the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Accounting Officer. A copy of the Code of Conduct is available at the Investor Relations, Corporate Governance section of the Company'sCompany’s website at www.westbankstrong.com, and the Company intends to satisfy its disclosure requirement by this reference. We intend to satisfy the disclosure requirements under Item 5.05 of Form 8-K regarding any amendment to or waiver of the Code of Conduct with respect to our Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Accounting Officer, and persons performing similar functions, by posting such information on our website.

Stockholder Recommendations for Nominees to the Board of Directors

The information required pursuant to Item 407(c)(3) of Regulation S-K can be found under the caption "General“General Matters—20172019 Stockholder Proposals"Proposals” in the Company'sCompany’s definitive Proxy Statement on Form DEF 14A, which was filed with the SEC on March 3, 20161, 2018, and is incorporated herein by reference.

Identification of Audit Committee and Audit Committee Financial Expert

The Company has a standing Audit Committee that consists of James W. Noyce, Chair, Joyce A. Chapman, David R. Milligan, Steven T. Schuler and Philip Jason Worth. Mr. Schuler was appointed to the Audit Committee in January 2018 at the same time as his appointment to the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors has determined that Mr. Noyce is anand Mr. Schuler are audit committee financial expert.  Mr. Milligan joined the Audit Committee in January 2016.experts.  The full Board of Directors has determined that all members of the Audit Committee are independent directors.

ITEM 11.  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

The information required pursuant to Item 402, Item 407(e)(4) and Item 407(e)(5) of Regulation S-K can be found under the captions "Governance“Governance and Board of Directors—Compensation Committee Interlocks2017 Director Compensation” and Insider Participation," "Governance and Board of Directors—Compensation Committee Report," "Governance and Board of Directors—2015 Director Compensation" and "Executive Compensation"“Executive Compensation” in the Company'sCompany’s definitive Proxy Statement on Form DEF 14A, which was filed with the SEC on March 3, 20161, 2018, and is incorporated herein by reference.


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ITEM 12.  SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

The Company currently maintainsEffective as of the 2017 annual meeting of stockholders, the West Bancorporation, Inc. 2017 Equity Incentive Plan (2017 Plan) was adopted by the Board of Directors and approved by our stockholders. The prior 2012 Equity Incentive Plan (2012 Plan), which was approved by our stockholders in 2012.frozen with respect to future grants upon approval of the 2017 Plan. At the time the 2012 Plan was frozen, 232,318 shares had not been issued under the original authorization for that plan. Awards outstanding under the 2012 Plan will remain subject to the 2012 Plan as long as they remain outstanding. Under the terms of the 20122017 Plan, the Company may grant a total of 800,000 shares of the Company'sCompany’s common stock as nonqualified and incentive stock options, stock appreciation rights and stock awards. All employees, directors and service providers to the Company and its subsidiary are eligible to become participants in the 20122017 Plan, except that nonemployees may not be granted incentive stock options. To date, only restricted stock units have been granted.granted under either plan. Additional information regarding our equity incentive plans is presented in “Note 12. Stock Compensation Plans” in the notes to the consolidated financial statements pursuant to Item 8. The following table sets forth information regarding outstanding restricted stock units and shares available for future issuance under this planthese plans as of December 31, 2015.2017.
 Number of shares to be Weighted-average Number of shares remaining available Number of shares to be Weighted-average Number of shares remaining available 
 issued upon exercise of exercise price of for future issuance under equity issued upon exercise of exercise price of for future issuance under equity 
 outstanding options, outstanding options, compensation plans (excluding shares outstanding options, outstanding options, compensation plans (excluding shares 
 warrants and rights warrants and rights reflected in column (a)) warrants and rights warrants and rights reflected in column (a)) 
Plan Category (a) (b) (c) (a) (b) (c) 
Equity compensation plans             
approved by stockholders(1) 261,833
 
 437,022
 339,300
 
 776,000
(2) 
Equity compensation plans not             
approved by stockholders 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total 261,833
 
 437,022
 339,300
 
 776,000
 
(1)Includes the West Bancorporation, Inc. 2012 Equity Incentive Plan approved by stockholders on April 26, 2012 and the West Bancorporation, Inc. 2017 Equity Incentive Plan approved by stockholders on April 27, 2017.
(2)Reflects the number of shares available for issuance under the West Bancorporation, Inc. 2017 Equity Incentive Plan as nonqualified and incentive stock options, stock appreciation rights and stock awards.

The information required pursuant to Item 403 of Regulation S-K can be found under the captions "Governance“Governance and Board of Directors—Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Executive Officers," "Governance” “Governance and Board of Directors—Other Beneficial Owners"Owners” and "Governance“Governance and Board of Directors—Change in Control Agreements"Agreements” in the Company'sCompany’s definitive Proxy Statement on Form DEF 14A, which was filed with the SEC on March 3, 20161, 2018, and is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 13.  CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE

The information required pursuant to Item 404 and Item 407(a) of Regulation S-K can be found under the heading "Governancecaptions “Governance and Board of Directors"Directors” and under the caption "General“General Matters—Certain Relationships and Related Transactions"Transactions” in the Company'sCompany’s definitive Proxy Statement on Form DEF 14A, which was filed with the SEC on March 3, 20161, 2018, and is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 14.  PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

The information required pursuant to Item 9(e) of Schedule 14A can be found under the heading "Independentcaption “Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm"Firm Fees and Services” in the Company'sCompany’s definitive Proxy Statement on Form DEF 14A, which was filed with the SEC on March 3, 20161, 2018, and is incorporated herein by reference.


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PART IV

ITEM 15.  EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

The following exhibits and financial statement schedules of the Company are filed as part of this report:

(a)1. Financial Statements
See the consolidated financial statements which appear in Item 8 of this Form 10-K.

2. Financial Statement Schedules
All schedules are omitted because they are not applicable, not required, or because the required information is included in the consolidated financial statements or notes thereto.

3. Exhibits (not covered by independent registered public accounting firms'firms’ reports)
3.1
Restatement of the Restated Articles of Incorporation of the Company West Bancorporation, Inc.(incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 filed with the Form 10-12G10-K on March 11, 20021, 2017)
3.2
Articles of Amendment to the Restated Articles of Incorporation (First Amendment) filed with the Iowa Secretary of State on December 24, 2008 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 filed with the Form 8-K on December 31, 2008)
3.3
Articles of Amendment to the Restated Articles of Incorporation (Second Amendment) filed with the Iowa Secretary of State on December 24, 2008, designating the terms of Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series A (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.2 filed with the Form 8-K on December 31, 2008)
3.4
Bylaws of the CompanyWest Bancorporation, Inc. adopted February 13, 2002 and as amended through October 17, 2007 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.1 filed with the Form S-3 on January 30, 2009)
10.110.1*
Lease for Main Bank Facility (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 filed with the Form 10-12G on March 11, 2002)
10.2
Supplemental Agreement to Lease for Main Bank Facility (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 filed with the Form 10-12G on March 11, 2002)
10.3
Short-Term Lease related to Main Bank Facility (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.3 filed with the Form 10-12G on March 11, 2002)
10.4
Assignment (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.4 filed with the Form 10-12G on March 11, 2002)
10.5
Lease Modification Agreement No. 1 for Main Bank Facility (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.5 filed with the Form 10-12G on March 11, 2002)
10.6
Memorandum of Real Estate Contract (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.6 filed with the Form 10-12G on March 11, 2002)
10.7
Affidavit (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.7 filed with the Form 10-12G on March 11, 2002)
10.8
Addendum to Lease for Main Bank Facility (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.8 filed with the Form 10-12G on March 11, 2002)
10.9
Amendment to Lease Agreement (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.16 filed with the Form 10-K on March 3, 2005)
10.10
Consulting Agreement with David L. Miller (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.18 filed with the Form 10-Q on May 6, 2005)
10.11
2007 Amendment to Lease Agreement (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.22 filed with the Form 10-Q on May 4, 2007)
10.12*
West Bancorporation, Inc. 2012 Equity Incentive Plan ((incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit A of the definitive proxy statement on Schedule 14A filed on March 7, 2012)2012)
10.13*10.2*
Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement under the West Bancorporation, Inc. 2012 Equity Incentive Plan ((incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 filed with the Form 10-Q on April 26, 2012)2012)
10.14*10.3*
Employment Agreement dated July 23, 2012, between West Bancorporation, Inc. and David D. Nelson  ((incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 filed with the Form 8-K on July 25, 2012)2012)
10.15*10.4*
Employment Agreement dated July 23, 2012, between West Bancorporation, Inc. and Brad L. Winterbottom ((incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 filed with the Form 8-K on July 25, 2012)2012)
10.16*10.5*
Employment Agreement dated July 23, 2012, between West Bancorporation, Inc. and Harlee N. Olafson ((incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.3 filed with the Form 8-K on July 25, 2012)2012)
10.17*10.6*
Employment Agreement dated July 23, 2012, between West Bancorporation, Inc. and Douglas R. Gulling ((incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.4 filed with the Form 8-K on July 25, 2012)2012)

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10.18*10.7*
West Bancorporation, Inc. Deferred Compensation Plan ((incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 filed with the Form 8-K on October 29, 2012)2012)
10.1910.8*
Stock Repurchase Agreement, by and among the Company, American Equity Investment Life Holding Company, and American Equity Life Insurance Company, dated June 4, 2013 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 filed with the Form 8-K on June 6, 2013)
10.20
TheWest Bancorporation, Inc. Employee Savings and Stock Ownership Plan, as amended ((incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.20 filed with the Form 10-K on March 6, 2014)2014)
10.9*
West Bancorporation, Inc. 2017 Equity Incentive Plan (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit A of the definitive proxy statement on Schedule 14A filed on March 1, 2017)
10.10*
Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement under the West Bancorporation, Inc. 2017 Equity Incentive Plan (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.2 filed with the Form S-8 on April 28, 2017)
10.11*
Form of Restricted Stock Award Agreement under the West Bancorporation, Inc. 2017 Equity Incentive Plan (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.3 filed with the Form S-8 on April 28, 2017)
10.12*
Form of Nonqualified Stock Option Award Agreement under the West Bancorporation, Inc. 2017 Equity Incentive Plan (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.4 filed with the Form S-8 on April 28, 2017)
10.13*
Form of Incentive Stock Option Award Agreement under the West Bancorporation, Inc. 2017 Equity Incentive Plan (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.5 filed with the Form S-8 on April 28, 2017)
10.14*
Form of Stock Appreciation Right Award Agreement under the West Bancorporation, Inc. 2017 Equity Incentive Plan (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.6 filed with the Form S-8 on April 28, 2017)
10.15*
10.16
21
23
31.1
31.2
32.1
32.2


101.INSXBRL Instance Document
101.SCHXBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
101.CALXBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
101.DEFXBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
101.LABXBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
101.PREXBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document
 
* Indicates management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.




104

Table of ContentsITEM 16. FORM 10-K SUMMARY

None.


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 by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

WEST BANCORPORATION, INC.
(Registrant)

March 3, 20161, 2018By:  /s/ David D. Nelson
  David D. Nelson
  Chief Executive Officer and President

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 in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

March 3, 20161, 2018By:  /s/ David D. Nelson
  David D. Nelson
  Chief Executive Officer, Director and President
  (Principal Executive Officer and Director)
   
   
March 3, 20161, 2018By:  /s/ Douglas R. Gulling
  Douglas R. Gulling
  Executive Vice President, Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer
  (Principal Financial Officer)
   
   
March 3, 20161, 2018By:  /s/ Marie I. Roberts
  Marie I. Roberts
  Senior Vice President, Controller and Chief Accounting Officer
  (Principal Accounting Officer)
   
BOARD OF DIRECTORS  
   
March 3, 20161, 2018By:/s/ David R. Milligan
  David R. Milligan
  Chairman of the Board
   
   
March 3, 20161, 2018By:/s/ Frank W. Berlin
  Frank W. Berlin
   
   
March 3, 2016By:/s/ Thomas A. Carlstrom
Thomas A. Carlstrom
March 3, 20161, 2018By:/s/ Joyce A. Chapman
  Joyce A. Chapman

105




March 3, 20161, 2018By:/s/ Steven K. Gaer
  Steven K. Gaer
   
   
March 3, 20161, 2018By:/s/ Michael J. Gerdin
  Michael J. Gerdin
   
   
March 3, 20161, 2018By:/s/ Kaye R. Lozier
  Kaye R. Lozier
   
   
March 3, 20161, 2018By:/s/ Sean P. McMurray
  Sean P. McMurray
   
   
March 3, 20161, 2018By:/s/ George D. Milligan
  George D. Milligan
   
   
March 3, 20161, 2018By:/s/ James W. Noyce
  James W. Noyce
   
   
March 3, 20161, 2018By:/s/ Robert G. Pulver
  Robert G. Pulver
   
   
March 3, 20161, 2018By:/s/ Lou Ann Sandburg
  Lou Ann Sandburg
   
   
March 3, 20161, 2018By:/s/ Steven T. Schuler
Steven T. Schuler
March 1, 2018By:/s/ Philip Jason Worth
  Philip Jason Worth



106



105

EXHIBIT INDEX

The following exhibits are filed herewith:
Exhibit No.Description
21Subsidiaries
23Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
31.1Certification of Chief Executive Officer under Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
31.2Certification of Chief Financial Officer under Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
32.1Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
32.2Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
101.INSXBRL Instance Document
101.SCHXBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
101.CALXBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
101.DEFXBRL Taxonomy Extension Definitions Linkbase Document
101.LABXBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
101.PREXBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document


107