To Our Stockholders - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net income in 1997 totaled $75,187,000, an increase of 7.1% over the $70,232,000 earned in 1996. Return on average stockholders' equity was 15.2%. For the twenty-sixth straight year total assets on December 31 reached a record high - $7,332,021,000 - an increase of 6.1% over the 1996 high of $6,912,057,000. In addition, during the year management made a decision to diversify funding sources and to securitize another $750,000,000 in credit card loans. For 1997, managed assets, which include securitized credit card loans, total $8,282,021,000, an increase of $1,169,964,000 or 16.5% over the 1996 total managed assets of $7,112,057,000. This is the greatest single year of asset dollar growth in the Company's history. Consumer bankruptcies and charge-offs continue to have a negative impact on First National's net income. Our provision to the Allowance for Loan Losses, which is a deduction from earnings, totaled $201,494,000 in 1997. This compares to a provision of $180,059,000 in 1996, and $102,767,000 in 1995. We will not see a significant improvement in net income until consumer bad debts return to a more normal level. On June 27, 1997, First National of Nebraska purchased 11,767 shares of its own stock costing $42,362,000. The stock was retired, leaving 335,000 shares outstanding. During 1997 we acquired a credit card portfolio totaling $265,000,000 from Old Kent Bank in Grand Rapids, Michigan. We are enjoying a good working relationship with Old Kent and look forward to a strong continuing association. We also opened a new office building at First National Business Park: 140th and West Dodge Road in Omaha. This building is serving to consolidate leased space in several Omaha buildings and gives us room for expansion during the next two years. As a result of our strong growth, we created 586 new jobs which means more opportunities for personal growth. I want to thank the more than 5,200 associates who have worked so successfully to make the Company grow during 1997. Bruce R. Lauritzen First National of Nebraska and Subsidiaries Performance Trends - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- BAR GRAPHS DEPICTING: Managed Assets* 1997: $8,282,021,000 Earnings 1997: $75,187,000 Capital & Loan Loss Allowance 1997: $639,047,000 YEAR $ MILLIONS YEAR $ MILLIONS YEAR $ MILLIONS - ---------------------------- ------------------------- ---------------------------- 1972 298 1972 1.959 1972 20 1973 366 1973 2.213 1973 22 1974 360 1974 2.405 1974 20 1975 351 1975 2.597 1975 18 1976 372 1976 3.155 1976 20 1977 439 1977 3.614 1977 23 1978 503 1978 3.976 1978 27 1979 583 1979 4.473 1979 31 1980 625 1980 5.075 1980 35 1981 666 1981 5.743 1981 41 1982 715 1982 6.575 1982 46 1983 844 1983 7.000 1983 49 1984 873 1984 8.700 1984 59 1985 1,081 1985 10.076 1985 69 1986 1,118 1986 11.637 1986 80 1987 1,314 1987 15.133 1987 95 1988 1,726 1988 23.253 1988 121 1989 2,076 1989 28.123 1989 147 1990 2,548 1990 33.217 1990 186 1991 3,033 1991 40.017 1991 225 1992 3,574 1992 52.126 1992 272 1993 4,272 1993 70.082 1993 345 1994 5,262 1994 77.133 1994 415 1995 6,311 1995 82.241 1995 498 1996 7,112 1996 70.232 1996 593 1997 8,282 1997 75.187 1997 639 Managed Loans* 1997: $5,960,982,000 Deposits 1997: $6,401,045,000 Return On Average Equity 1997: 15.2% YEAR $ MILLIONS YEAR $ MILLIONS YEAR % - ---------------------------- ------------------------- ---------------------------- 1972 152 1972 251 1972 13.5 1973 183 1973 296 1973 16.5 1974 172 1974 299 1974 17.4 1975 175 1975 280 1975 18.5 1976 202 1976 302 1976 19.5 1977 215 1977 336 1977 19.2 1978 265 1978 369 1978 18.2 1979 327 1979 411 1979 17.9 1980 297 1980 428 1980 17.7 1981 377 1981 411 1981 17.4 1982 426 1982 432 1982 17.1 1983 528 1983 557 1983 16.3 1984 645 1984 608 1984 18.6 1985 738 1985 741 1985 18.0 1986 813 1986 799 1986 18.0 1987 988 1987 970 1987 19.8 1988 1,321 1988 1,308 1988 25.7 1989 1,581 1989 1,642 1989 24.3 1990 1,890 1990 2,097 1990 23.2 1991 2,224 1991 2,575 1991 23.3 1992 2,602 1992 3,070 1992 24.7 1993 3,184 1993 3,652 1993 26.8 1994 3,945 1994 4,383 1994 24.1 1995 4,651 1995 5,090 1995 20.8 1996 5,307 1996 5,836 1996 15.4 1997 5,961 1997 6,401 1997 15.2 * Reported Assets/Loans plus securitized credit card loans First National of Nebraska and Subsidiaries Financial Highlights - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Year ended December 31, 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Amounts in Thousands Except Per Share Data) Total assets $ 7,332,021 $ 6,912,057 $ 6,110,542 $ 5,261,907 $ 4,271,853 Net income $ 75,187 $ 70,232 $ 82,241 $ 77,133 $ 70,082 Stockholders' equity $ 510,057 $ 487,966 $ 429,831 $ 359,216 $ 295,355 Allowance for loan losses $ 128,990 $ 104,812 $ 67,740 $ 55,265 $ 49,589 ================================================================================================================================ ================================================================================================================================ Per share data: Net income $ 220.68 $ 202.53 $ 237.17 $ 222.43 $ 202.10 Dividends $ 33.76 $ 37.22 $ 33.73 $ 38.07 $ 16.86 Stockholders' equity $ 1,522.56 $ 1,407.19 $ 1,239.54 $ 1,035.90 $ 851.74 ================================================================================================================================ ================================================================================================================================ Profit ratios: Return on average equity 15.2% 15.4% 20.8% 24.1% 26.8% Return on average assets 1.1% 1.1% 1.5% 1.7% 1.9% ================================================================================================================================ Banking Locations MAP DEPICTING: Nebraska South Dakota Kansas Colorado - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Omaha Yankton Fairway Fort Collins North Platte Overland Park Greeley Columbus Olathe Loveland Kearney Windsor Fremont Boulder Beatrice David City Chadron Alliance Scottsbluff Gering Norfolk 3 First National of Nebraska and Subsidiaries Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- December 31, Assets 1997 1996 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Amounts in Thousands) Cash and due from banks $ 428,832 $ 397,886 Federal funds sold and other short-term investments 327,010 277,028 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total cash and cash equivalents 755,842 674,914 Securities available-for-sale (amortized cost $378,714,000 and $255,653,000) 381,337 256,919 Securities held-to-maturity (fair value $874,646,000 and $650,897,000) 872,907 649,799 Loans 5,010,982 5,107,041 Less: Allowance for loan losses 128,990 104,812 Unearned income 13,380 11,494 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net loans 4,868,612 4,990,735 Premises and equipment, net 129,163 111,700 Other assets 324,160 227,990 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total assets $7,332,021 $6,912,057 =================================================================================================================== Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Deposits: Noninterest-bearing $ 842,195 $ 721,448 Interest-bearing 5,558,850 5,114,721 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total deposits 6,401,045 5,836,169 Federal funds purchased and securities sold under repurchase agreements 217,891 146,015 Commercial paper and commercial paper based borrowings -- 273,298 Other liabilities 80,530 64,733 Other borrowings 28,446 7,260 Capital notes 94,052 96,616 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total liabilities 6,821,964 6,424,091 Contingencies and commitments Stockholders' equity: Common stock, $5 par value, 346,767 shares authorized, 335,000 and 346,767 shares issued and outstanding, respectively 1,675 1,734 Additional paid-in capital 2,515 2,604 Retained earnings 504,184 482,819 Net unrealized appreciation on available-for-sale securities, net of tax 1,683 809 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total stockholders' equity 510,057 487,966 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $7,332,021 $6,912,057 =================================================================================================================== See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 4 First National of Nebraska and Subsidiaries Consolidated Statements of Income - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the years ended December 31, 1997 1996 1995 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Amounts in Thousands Except Share and Per Share Data) Interest income: Interest and fees on loans and lease financing $735,638 $700,472 $634,157 Interest on securities: Taxable interest income 64,165 49,809 45,492 Nontaxable interest income 1,036 1,116 1,436 Interest on federal funds sold and other short-term investments 14,268 14,017 10,298 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total interest income 815,107 765,414 691,383 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Interest expense: Interest on deposits 286,226 250,170 234,694 Interest on commercial paper and commercial paper based borrowings 13,479 15,943 18,435 Interest on federal funds purchased and securities sold under repurchase agreements 7,841 5,667 3,642 Interest on other borrowings and capital notes 9,549 8,451 7,689 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total interest expense 317,095 280,231 264,460 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net interest income 498,012 485,183 426,923 Provision for loan losses 201,494 180,059 102,767 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net interest income after provision for loan losses 296,518 305,124 324,156 Noninterest income: Processing services 126,125 100,447 72,187 Deposit services 22,879 19,928 17,372 Trust and investment services 20,616 17,818 15,086 Commissions 14,212 11,064 9,823 Gain on sales of loans 17,245 -- -- Miscellaneous 30,857 25,800 19,884 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total noninterest income 231,934 175,057 134,352 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Noninterest expense: Salaries and employee benefits 155,956 135,718 119,698 Communications and supplies 55,922 61,273 56,382 Loan services purchased 36,099 32,637 29,810 Purchased processing 26,560 21,000 19,388 Net occupancy expense of premises 22,355 21,570 19,362 Equipment rentals, depreciation and maintenance 29,880 26,117 23,879 Other professional services purchased 48,701 44,072 31,400 Miscellaneous 29,074 23,441 28,498 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total noninterest expense 404,547 365,828 328,417 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Income before income taxes 123,905 114,353 130,091 Income tax expense (benefit): Current 53,947 57,641 54,284 Deferred (5,229) (13,520) (6,434) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total income tax expense 48,718 44,121 47,850 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net income $ 75,187 $ 70,232 $ 82,241 =============================================================================================================================== Average number of common shares outstanding 340,706 346,767 346,767 =============================================================================================================================== Net income per common share $ 220.68 $ 202.53 $ 237.17 =============================================================================================================================== Cash dividends declared per common share $ 33.76 $ 37.22 $ 33.73 =============================================================================================================================== See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 5 First National of Nebraska and Subsidiaries Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity Years Ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Net Unrealized Additional Appreciation Total Common Stock Paid-in Retained on Available- Stockholders' ($5 par value) Capital Earnings For-Sale Equity Securities - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (Amounts in Thousands) Balance, January 1, 1995 $1,734 $2,604 $354,948 $ (70) $359,216 Net Income -- -- 82,241 -- 82,241 Net changes in unrealized appreciation on securities available-for-sale, net of taxes -- -- -- 70 70 Cash dividends - $33.73 per share -- -- (11,696) -- (11,696) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Balance, December 31, 1995 1,734 2,604 425,493 -- 429,831 Net Income -- -- 70,232 -- 70,232 Net changes in unrealized appreciation on securities available-for-sale, net of taxes -- -- -- 809 809 Cash dividends - $37.22 per share -- -- (12,906) -- (12,906) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Balance, December 31, 1996 1,734 2,604 482,819 809 487,966 Net Income -- -- 75,187 -- 75,187 Repurchase and retirement of common stock (59) (89) (42,214) -- (42,362) Net changes in unrealized appreciation on securities available-for-sale, net of taxes -- -- -- 874 874 Cash dividends - $33.76 per share -- -- (11,608) -- (11,608) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Balance, December 31, 1997 $1,675 $2,515 $504,184 $1,683 $510,057 ============================================================================================================================== See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 6 First National of Nebraska and Subsidiaries Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the years ended December 31, 1997 1996 1995 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Amounts in Thousands) CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES Net Income $ 75,187 $ 70,232 $ 82,241 Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash flows from operating activities: Provision for loan losses 201,494 180,059 102,767 Depreciation and amortization 41,888 37,195 32,145 Provision for deferred taxes (5,229) (13,520) (6,434) Origination of loans for resale (41,991) (46,887) (25,054) Proceeds from the sale of loans for resale 40,851 47,053 26,730 Gain on sales of loans (17,245) -- -- Other asset and liability activity, net (24,195) (27,159) 5,001 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net cash flows from operating activities 270,760 246,973 217,396 CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES Acquisitions, net of cash received (1) $ -- $ (11,584) $ 28,041 Maturities and sales of securities available-for-sale 211,676 7,176 -- Purchases of securities available-for-sale (334,172) (226,734) -- Maturities of securities held-to-maturity 283,446 312,406 354,495 Purchases of securities held-to-maturity (507,975) (127,598) (395,064) Net change in loans (586,113) (723,203) (691,893) Securitization and sale of loans 750,000 -- 200,000 Purchase of loan portfolios (288,998) -- -- Purchases of premises and equipment, net (41,072) (26,363) (26,089) Other, net 2,141 732 4,069 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net cash flows from investing activities (511,067) (795,168) (526,441) CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES Net change in deposits $ 564,876 $ 647,066 $ 539,118 Net change in federal funds purchased and securities sold under repurchase agreements 71,876 2,548 33,924 Issuance of other borrowings and capital notes 135,771 61,799 115,914 Principal repayments of other borrowings and capital notes (117,149) (68,889) (93,362) Net change in commercial paper and commercial paper based borrowings (280,169) (25,145) (22,822) Repurchase and retirement of common stock (42,362) -- -- Cash dividends paid (11,608) (12,906) (11,696) - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net cash flows from financing activities 321,235 604,473 561,076 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net change in cash and cash equivalents 80,928 56,278 252,031 Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 674,914 618,636 366,605 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Cash and cash equivalents at end of year $ 755,842 $ 674,914 $ 618,636 =========================================================================================================================== Cash paid during the year for: Interest $ 312,318 $ 278,548 $ 255,354 Income taxes $ 44,979 $ 50,233 $ 53,213 Noncash investing and financing activities: Noncash consideration for business acquisitions $ -- $ 724 $ 15,198 =========================================================================================================================== See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (1) In two separate acquisitions during 1996, the Company assumed liabilities of $117,860,000 and noncash assets of $130,168,000. In two separate acquisitions during 1995, the Company assumed liabilities of $169,394,000 and noncash assets of $156,551,000. 7 First National of Nebraska and Subsidiaries Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements Years Ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995 (Columnar Amounts in Footnotes are in Thousands Except Per Share Data) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies: Principles of Consolidation - The consolidated financial statements of First National of Nebraska and subsidiaries (the Company) include the accounts of the parent company; its 99.66% owned subsidiary, First National Bank of Omaha and wholly-owned subsidiaries (the Bank); its wholly-owned other banking subsidiaries; and its nonbanking subsidiaries. All material intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation. Nature of Business - The Company is a Nebraska-based interstate bank holding company whose primary assets are its banking subsidiaries. The banking subsidiaries are principally engaged in consumer, commercial, real estate and agricultural lending and retail deposit activities. The Company also has subsidiaries which provide merchant credit card processing and other services. Use of Estimates - The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Cash and Cash Equivalents - For the purpose of reporting cash flows, cash and cash equivalents include cash and due from banks, federal funds sold and other short-term investments with original maturities of three months or less. Securities - Debt securities for which the Company has the positive intent and ability to hold to maturity are reported at amortized cost. Premiums and discounts are recognized in interest income using the level yield method over the period to maturity. Debt and equity securities which the Company may not hold to maturity are classified as available-for-sale if they are not considered to be part of trading-related activities. Available-for-sale securities are reported at their fair values, with unrealized holding gains and losses reported on a net-of-tax basis as a separate component of stockholders' equity. Gains and losses on the sale of available-for-sale securities are determined using the specific-identification method. Premiums and discounts are recognized in interest income using the level yield method over the period to maturity. Loans - Loans are reported at their outstanding principal balance net of the allowance for loan losses and any deferred fees or costs on originated loans. Loan fees and certain direct loan origination costs are deferred and recognized as an adjustment of the yield of the related loan over the estimated average life of the loan. Accrual of interest is discontinued on a loan when management believes collection of interest is doubtful after considering economic and business conditions, collection efforts, and the financial condition of the borrower. Leases - Equipment acquired with no outside financing is leased to customers under direct lease financing arrangements. The net investment in direct financing leases is the sum of all minimum lease payments and estimated residual values, less unearned income. Unearned income is recognized as interest income over the terms of the leases by methods that approximate the level yield method. Allowance for Loan Losses - The allowance for loan losses is increased by charges to income and decreased by charge-offs, net of recoveries. Management's periodic evaluation of the adequacy of the allowance is based on the Company's past loan loss experience, known and inherent risks in the portfolio, adverse situations that may affect the borrower's ability to repay, the estimated value of any underlying collateral and current economic conditions. The allowance for loan losses related to impaired loans, excluding large groups of smaller balance homogeneous loans (such as consumer loans) that are collectively evaluated for impairment, is measured based on the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan's effective interest rate, or as a practical expedient, at the observable market price of the loan or the fair value of the underlying collateral. 8 Premises and Equipment - Premises, furniture and equipment, and leasehold improvements are carried at cost, less accumulated depreciation and amortization computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets or the terms of the leases. Land is carried at cost. Credit Card Loan Securitization - The Company has sold, on a revolving basis, credit card loans through a securitization program. These securitizations have been recorded as sales in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 125, "Accounting for Transfers and Servicing of Financial Assets and Extinguishments of Liabilities." A residual earnings stream and servicing have been retained and recorded as part of the securitization. These retained interests are recorded at estimated fair value based on the present value of estimated expected future cash flows using a discount rate commensurate with the risks involved. The resulting servicing liability was immaterial. Income Taxes - The Company files consolidated federal and state tax returns. Taxes of the subsidiaries, computed on a separate return basis, are remitted to the parent company. Under the asset and liability method used to calculate income taxes and deferred tax assets and liabilities, the Company accounts for differences between the financial statement carrying amount and tax bases of existing assets and liabilities by applying currently enacted statutory tax rates applicable to future periods. Intangible Assets - Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the estimated fair value of identifiable net assets associated with merger and acquisition transactions. Goodwill is amortized on a straight-line basis over periods ranging up to 25 years. Core deposit intangibles represent the intangible value of depositor relationships resulting from deposit liabilities assumed in acquisitions and are amortized over periods not exceeding 10 years using straight-line and accelerated methods, as appropriate. Purchased credit card relationships are amortized over a 15-year period using an accelerated method. Fair Values of Financial Instruments - Fair values of financial instruments that are not actively traded are based on market prices of similar instruments and/or valuation techniques using market assumptions. Although management uses its best judgment in estimating the fair value of these financial instruments, there are inherent limitations in any estimation technique. The Company assumes that the carrying amount of cash and short-term financial instruments approximates their fair value. Trust Assets - Property (other than cash deposits) held by banking subsidiaries in fiduciary or agency capacities for their customers is not included in the accompanying consolidated statements of financial condition since such items are not assets of the Company. Net Income Per Share - Net income per share of common stock has been computed on the basis of the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding. Other - Certain reclassifications were made to prior years' financial statements to conform them to the improved classifications used in 1997. These reclassifications had no effect on net income or total assets. 9 B. Securities: Debt and equity securities have been classified in the consolidated statements of financial condition according to management's intent. The amortized cost of securities and their approximate fair values at December 31 are as follows: December 31, 1997 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Gross Gross Amortized Unrealized Unrealized Fair Cost Gains Losses Value ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Available-for-sale securities: U.S. Government obligations $366,584 $2,623 $ -- $369,207 Obligations of states and political subdivisions 115 -- -- 115 Other securities 12,015 -- -- 12,015 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Total securities available-for-sale $378,714 $2,623 $ -- $381,337 =============================================================================================================================== Held-to-maturity securities: U.S. Government obligations $809,581 $1,903 $ (265) $811,219 Obligations of states and political subdivisions 17,184 192 (21) 17,355 Mortgage-backed securities 45,692 31 (101) 45,622 Other securities 450 -- -- 450 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Total securities held-to-maturity $872,907 $2,126 $ (387) $874,646 =============================================================================================================================== December 31, 1996 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Gross Gross Amortized Unrealized Unrealized Fair Cost Gains Losses Value ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Available-for-sale securities: U.S. Government obligations $245,218 $1,265 $ (8) $246,475 Obligations of states and political subdivisions 305 9 -- 314 Other securities 10,130 -- -- 10,130 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Total securities available-for-sale $255,653 $1,274 $ (8) $256,919 ============================================================================================================================== Held-to-maturity securities: U.S. Government obligations $626,690 $1,231 $ (657) $627,264 Obligations of states and political subdivisions 19,588 214 (40) 19,762 Mortgage-backed securities 1,376 42 -- 1,418 Other securities 2,145 318 (10) 2,453 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Total securities held-to-maturity $649,799 $1,805 $ (707) $650,897 ============================================================================================================================== At December 31, 1997 and 1996, the Company did not hold any trading securities. Gross realized gains on sales of available-for-sale securities were $1,267,000 in 1997 and an immaterial amount in 1996 and 1995. At December 31, 1997 and 1996, securities totaling $554,677,000 and $457,265,000, respectively, were pledged to secure public deposits and for other purposes required or permitted by law. 10 Contractual maturities at December 31, 1997 are as follows: Held-to-maturity securities: Available-for-sale securities: ----------------------------------- ----------------------------------- Amortized Fair Amortized Fair Cost Value Cost Value -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Due in one year or less $229,192 $229,785 $ 65,652 $ 65,783 Due after one year through five years 594,886 596,488 301,492 303,984 Due after five years through ten years 2,997 2,604 -- -- Due after ten years 140 147 11,570 11,570 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total securities, excluding mortgage-backed securities 827,215 829,024 378,714 381,337 Mortgage-backed securities 45,692 45,622 -- -- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total securities $872,907 $874,646 $378,714 $381,337 ================================================================================================================================ C. Loans: Loans are comprised of the following: December 31, 1997 1996 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Individual consumer $2,804,727 $3,290,410 Commercial and financial 722,193 668,676 Real estate - mortgage 794,167 632,520 Real estate - construction 196,720 152,211 Agricultural 408,602 285,008 Lease financing 75,637 66,061 Other 8,936 12,155 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Gross loans 5,010,982 5,107,041 Less: Allowance for loan losses 128,990 104,812 Unearned income 13,380 11,494 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net loans $4,868,612 $4,990,735 ============================================================================================================================ In addition to the above loans owned by the Company, credit card loans securitized and serviced for others totaled $950,000,000 in 1997 and $200,000,000 in 1996. Mortgage loans serviced for others totaled $355,208,000 in 1997 and $370,570,000 in 1996. Lease financing is comprised of the following: December 31, 1997 1996 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Direct financing leases: Lease payments receivable $64,836 $56,207 Estimated residual value of equipment 10,801 9,854 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 75,637 66,061 Less unearned income 10,243 9,011 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net leases $65,394 $57,050 =========================================================================================================================== At December 31, 1997, minimum lease financing payments receivable for each of the five succeeding years are approximately: $18,372,000 for 1998; $17,806,000 for 1999; $13,703,000 for 2000; $9,371,000 for 2001; and $3,766,000 for 2002. 11 Transactions in the allowance for loan losses are as follows: For the years ended December 31, 1997 1996 1995 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Balance beginning of year $ 104,812 $ 67,740 $ 55,265 Addition due to loan portfolio purchase 10,895 -- -- Addition due to acquisition -- 1,738 1,568 Provision for loan losses 201,494 180,059 102,767 Loans charged off (215,144) (164,711) (108,757) Loans recovered 26,933 19,986 16,897 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total net charge-offs (188,211) (144,725) (91,860) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Balance end of year $ 128,990 $ 104,812 $ 67,740 ========================================================================================================================== The Company grants individual consumer, commercial, agricultural, and residential loans to customers. The business loan portfolio is diversified, consisting of numerous industries located or headquartered primarily in the Company's operating region which includes Nebraska, Colorado, Kansas, and South Dakota. The majority of individual consumer loans are to customers located in the Midwest. The Company evaluates each borrower's creditworthiness on a case-by-case basis. The amount of collateral obtained is based upon management's evaluation of the borrower. The individual consumer category is predominately unsecured, and the allowance for potential losses associated with these loans has been established accordingly. The majority of the non-consumer loan categories are generally secured by real estate, operating assets, or financial instruments. As of December 1997 and 1996 and for the years then ended, the Company's recorded investment in impaired loans as defined by SFAS No. 114, as amended by SFAS No. 118, was immaterial. Loan participations sold to banks owned by shareholders of the Company were $81,574,000 and $82,640,000, respectively, at December 31, 1997 and 1996. Loans to subsidiary bank directors and their associates were approximately $34,992,000 and $31,279,000 at December 31, 1997 and 1996, respectively. The Company believes these loans have been made under comparable terms and conditions as loans made to unrelated parties. D. Premises and Equipment: Premises and equipment is comprised of the following: December 31, 1997 1996 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Land $ 14,428 $ 13,562 Buildings 73,342 66,513 Leasehold improvements 25,558 20,502 Equipment 138,026 116,037 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 251,354 216,614 Less accumulated depreciation 122,191 104,914 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Net premises and equipment $129,163 $111,700 ============================================================================================================================== 12 E. Deposits: The aggregate amount of short-term jumbo certificates of deposit, each with a minimum denomination of $100,000, was approximately $367,359,000 and $437,420,000 in 1997 and 1996, respectively. At December 31, 1997, the scheduled maturities of total certificates of deposit are as follows: ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 $ 2,336,891 1999 1,090,194 2000 343,625 2001 35,170 2002 and thereafter 44,616 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total certificates of deposit $3,850,496 ============================================================================================================================= F. Commercial Paper, Other Borrowings and Capital Notes: In December 1997, the Company discontinued its commercial paper program. At December 31, 1996, the Company had facilities to access the commercial paper market up to a maximum of $315,000,000, of which $273,298,000 was outstanding. Obligations were collateralized by $286,526,000 of consumer loans receivable. All of the facilities were fully backed by unused bank credit lines. The Company's commercial paper and commercial paper based borrowings were distributed on a national basis with proceeds used to finance consumer receivables. The parent company replaced an existing $75 million revolving credit line with a $100 million syndicated revolving credit facility in December 1997. This revolving credit facility bears a variable rate of interest tied to publicly announced debt ratings of the Bank. At December 31, 1997, the parent company had $19 million outstanding under this credit facility reflected in other borrowings. The credit facility will mature on December 4, 2000, at which time, any outstanding balance will be due. Among other restrictions, the loan agreement requires that the Company maintain certain financial covenants. As part of arranging the syndicated credit facility for the Company, a $150 million revolving credit facility for the Bank was also syndicated to the same bank group. This credit facility will be used for general liquidity purposes and bears a variable rate of interest tied to publicly announced debt ratings of the Bank. At December 31, 1997, there was no balance outstanding under this credit facility. The credit facility will mature on December 4, 2000, at which time, any outstanding balance will be due. Among other restrictions, the loan agreement requires that the Bank maintain certain financial covenants. In December 1995, the Bank issued $75,000,000 in subordinated capital notes, due to mature on December 1, 2010. The subordinated capital notes pay interest semi-annually on June 1 and December 1 at a fixed rate of 7.32%. The subordinated capital notes are unsecured and subordinated to the claims of depositors and general creditors of the Bank. No sinking fund has been provided, and the subordinated capital notes may not be redeemed, in whole or in part, prior to maturity. The parent company issued a total of $26,172,000 of unsecured capital notes, which require principal payments through 2006. The capital notes are noncallable and carry interest rates ranging from 9.00% to 12.50%. At December 31, 1997 and 1996, $19,052,000 and $21,616,000, respectively, were outstanding on these notes. At December 31, 1997 and 1996, Bank premises were subject to a mortgage which required annual payments of $1,253,000, including interest at 7.75%, through the year 2003. The Bank may prepay the mortgage with a prepayment premium. The mortgage balance was $5,250,000 and $6,062,000 at December 31, 1997, and 1996, respectively. The Company has outstanding advances from the Federal Home Loan Bank totaling $3,957,000 and $740,000, at December 31, 1997 and 1996, respectively. These advances are at interest rates ranging from 5.40% to 7.34% and are scheduled to mature at various periods through the year 2012. These advances are collateralized by certain real estate loans in compliance with Federal Home Loan Bank requirements. Additionally, the Company holds shares of Federal Home Loan Bank stock as required. Principal amounts due on other borrowings and capital notes in each of the succeeding five years and thereafter are approximately: 1998 -$2,606,000; 1999 - $2,056,000; 2000 - $21,323,000; 2001 - $2,044,000; and 2002 - $8,854,000; thereafter - $85,615,000. 13 G. Income Taxes: The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to significant portions of the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities at December 31 are as follows: 1997 1996 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Deferred tax assets: Allowance for loan losses $45,875 $37,111 Employee benefits 6,210 4,947 Other 4,870 4,724 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Total deferred tax assets 56,955 46,782 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Deferred tax liabilities: Basis difference between tax and financial reporting arising from acquisitions 778 1,013 Lease financing 2,158 2,755 Change for tax recognized over future periods 4,444 -- Retained interests in securitization 6,036 -- Other 1,822 2,786 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Total deferred tax liabilities 15,238 6,554 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Net deferred tax assets $41,717 $40,228 ======================================================================================================================== The following is a comparative analysis of the provision for federal and state taxes: For the years ended December 31, 1997 1996 1995 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Current: Federal $49,969 $54,302 $51,736 State 3,978 3,339 2,548 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 53,947 57,641 54,284 Deferred: Federal (4,841) (13,257) (6,317) State (388) (263) (117) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (5,229) (13,520) (6,434) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total provision for income taxes $48,718 $44,121 $47,850 ========================================================================================================================= The effective rates of total tax expense for the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996, and 1995 are different than the statutory federal tax rate. The reasons for the differences are as follows: For the years ended December 31, 1997 1996 1995 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Percent of pretax income) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Statutory federal tax rate 35.0% 35.0% 35.0% Additions/(reductions) in taxes resulting from: Tax-exempt interest income (0.8) (0.8) (0.7) State taxes 2.1 1.9 1.9 Other items, net 3.0 2.5 0.6 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Effective tax rate 39.3% 38.6% 36.8% =========================================================================================================================== 14 H. Employee Benefit Plans: The Company has a noncontributory, self-trusteed pension plan (the Plan) covering substantially all full-time employees with one or more years of service. The Plan generally provides for employee retirement at age sixty- five (early retirement at age fifty-five) and benefits based upon length of service and compensation. Lump sum death benefits are available as well as pre-retirement protection in the event of death before benefits commence. The Company's policy is to fund accrued pension cost necessary to provide the Plan, on an actuarial basis, with sufficient assets to meet the benefits to be paid to the Plan participants (normally up to the extent deductible under existing tax regulations). The benefits are funded under a self-administered pension trust with the Bank's Trust Department acting as Trustee. The net periodic pension credits, netted within noninterest expense, are comprised of: For the years ended December 31, 1997 1996 1995 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Service cost $ 3,817 $ 3,210 $ 2,925 Interest cost 2,676 2,288 2,103 Actual return on plan assets (7,512) (590) (21,135) Net amortization and deferral 279 (6,960) 16,007 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net periodic pension credits $(740) $(2,052) $ (100) ============================================================================================================================ The actuarial computation, using the "projected unit credit" actuarial method for these years, assumed a discount rate on benefit obligations of 7.25% for 1997 and 1996 and 7.00% for 1995, an expected long-term rate of return on plan assets of 8.00%, 7.25% and 7.00% for 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively, and annual compensation increases of 5% over the remaining service lives of employees covered under the Plan for 1997, 1996 and 1995. Variances between cost assumptions, expected return on assets and actual experience are amortized over the remaining service lives of employees covered under the Plan. At December 31, 1997, the Plan owned parent company common stock at a cost of $269,548. The table of actuarially computed benefit obligations and trusteed net assets of the Plan is presented below: December 31, 1997 1996 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Actuarial present value of benefit obligations: Vested benefits $(27,220) $(22,347) Nonvested benefits (4,135) (4,024) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Accumulated benefit obligations (31,355) (26,371) Additional amounts related to projected salary increases (14,177) (9,500) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Projected benefit obligations (45,532) (35,871) Plan assets at market value consisting primarily of U.S. Government securities, common stocks and corporate bonds 78,875 72,553 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Excess of Plan assets over projected benefit obligations 33,343 36,682 Unrecognized net gain from past experience different from that assumed (29,841) (33,590) Unrecognized Plan net assets at January 1, 1987 being recognized over 15 years (1,123) (1,517) Unrecognized prior service cost 549 613 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Prepaid pension cost included within other assets $ 2,928 $ 2,188 ============================================================================================================================ In addition to the pension plan, the Company also has a profit sharing plan and 401(k) savings plan. Total cost for these plans, included within other operating expense, for the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995 approximated $1,293,000, $1,175,000 and $977,000, respectively. 15 The Company also provides certain health care and death benefits to retired employees. The estimated costs of these retiree benefits are accrued during the employees' active service and benefit costs are funded as they are incurred. The following tables summarize the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation (APBO) and the related cost which is recognized in the Company's consolidated statements of financial condition and statements of income as of December 31: December 31, 1997 1996 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Accumulated postretirement benefit obligation: Retirees $ (1,073) $ (896) Active plan participants (4,300) (3,589) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total unfunded accumulated postretirement benefit obligation (5,373) (4,485) Unrecognized net obligation at transition 3,268 3,486 Unrecognized net gain (1,975) (2,411) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Accrued postretirement benefit cost $(4,080) $(3,410) ============================================================================================================================ For the years ended December 31, 1997 1996 1995 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net periodic postretirement benefit cost includes: Service cost-benefits earned during the period $ 415 $ 314 $ 253 Interest cost on accumulated postretirement benefit obligation 306 300 269 Net amortization and deferral 112 122 112 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net periodic postretirement benefit cost $ 833 $ 736 $ 634 ============================================================================================================================ The weighted average discount rate used to determine the APBO was 7.25% for 1997 and 1996 and 7.0% for 1995. The assumed health care cost trend rate used in measuring APBO was 8.0% in 1997 decreasing gradually to 5% in 2000, and remaining constant thereafter. A one-percentage-point increase in the assumed health care cost trend rate for each year would increase the APBO as of December 31, 1997 by $757,000 and the aggregate of the service and interest cost components of the net periodic postretirement cost for the year then ended by $126,000. I. Contingencies and Commitments: In the normal course of business, there are various outstanding commitments to extend credit in the form of unused loan commitments and standby letters of credit that are not reflected in the consolidated financial statements. Since commitments may expire without being exercised, these amounts do not necessarily represent future cash requirements. The Company uses the same credit and collateral policies in making commitments as those described in Note C. At December 31, 1997 and 1996, the Company had unused loan commitments, excluding consumer credit card lines, of $1.3 billion. Additionally, standby letters of credit of $49 million and $51 million at December 31, 1997 and 1996, respectively, had been issued. The majority of these commitments are collateralized by various assets. No material losses are anticipated as a result of these transactions. The Company had unused consumer credit card lines of $17.5 billion and $15.4 billion at December 31, 1997 and 1996, respectively. The Company has the contractual right to change the conditions of the credit card members' benefits or terminate the unused line at any time without prior notice. Since many unused credit card lines are never actually drawn upon, the unfunded amounts do not necessarily represent future funding requirements. The Company has operating leases for office space with terms ranging from one to nine years, which may include renewal options. Certain leases also include residual value guarantees up to $71 million, or alternatively, the Company may elect to exercise purchase options totaling $81 million. Operating leases on equipment and office space require minimum annual rental payments as follows: 1998-$19,178,000; 1999-$17,786,000; 2000-$13,413,000; 2001-$6,618,000; 2002-$5,070,000; and $7,381,000 thereafter through the year 2014. Rental expense on leases for the years ending December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995 was approximately $14,771,000; $12,848,000; and $13,476,000, respectively. 16 In 1997, a trial court entered a $23.7 million judgment in favor of the Company in a civil litigation matter in which the Company was a plaintiff. The defendant has appealed. Although negotiations are in progress, a settlement has not yet been consummated. J. Regulatory Restrictions: The Company is governed by various regulatory agencies. Bank holding companies and their nonbanking subsidiaries are regulated by the Federal Reserve Board. National banks are primarily regulated by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC). All federally-insured banks are also regulated by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). The Company's banking subsidiaries include eight national banks and three state-chartered banks, all of which are insured by the FDIC. The state-chartered banks are also regulated by state banking authorities. The ability of the parent company to pay cash dividends to its shareholders and service debt may be dependent upon cash dividends from its subsidiary banks. Subsidiary national banks are subject to regulatory restrictions on the amount they may pay in dividends. At December 31, 1997, approximately $49,628,000 of subsidiary national banks' retained earnings were available for dividend declaration without prior regulatory approval. Under capital adequacy guidelines and the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action, the Company and its bank subsidiaries must meet specific capital guidelines that involve quantitative measures of assets, liabilities, and certain off-balance sheet items as calculated under regulatory accounting practices. These quantitative measures require the Company and its bank subsidiaries to maintain minimum amounts and ratios (set forth in the table below) of total and Tier I capital (as defined in the regulations) to risk-weighted assets (as defined), and of Tier I capital (as defined) to average assets (as defined). The Company and its bank subsidiaries' capital amounts and classifications are also subject to qualitative judgments by the regulators about components, risk weightings and other factors. As of December 31, 1997, the most recent notification from the OCC categorized the Company's banking subsidiaries as well capitalized under the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action. There are no conditions or events since that notification that management believes have changed the institution's category. To be categorized as well capitalized the Company's banking subsidiaries must maintain minimum total risk-based capital of 10%, Tier I risk-based capital of 6%, and Tier I leverage capital of 5.0%. The Company's and First National Bank of Omaha's actual capital amounts and ratios are presented in the following table. To Be Well Capitalized Under For Minimum Capital Prompt Corrective Actual Adequacy Purposes: Action Provisions: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Amount Ratio Amount Ratio Amount Ratio ------ ----- ------ ----- ------ ----- As of December 31, 1997 Total Capital Consolidated $601,555 10.7% $450,062 8.0% N/A First National Bank of Omaha $315,763 11.3% $223,600 8.0% $279,499 10.0% Tier I Capital Consolidated $440,739 7.8% $225,031 4.0% N/A First National Bank of Omaha $205,552 7.4% $111,800 4.0% $167,700 6.0% Tier I Leverage Capital Consolidated $440,739 6.1% $288,026 4.0% N/A First National Bank of Omaha $205,552 5.6% $146,078 4.0% $182,598 5.0% As of December 31, 1996 Total Capital Consolidated $575,245 10.7% $431,779 8.0% N/A First National Bank of Omaha $295,775 10.7% $220,807 8.0% $276,009 10.0% Tier I Capital Consolidated $415,147 7.7% $215,890 4.0% N/A First National Bank of Omaha $186,025 6.7% $110,403 4.0% $165,605 6.0% Tier I Leverage Capital Consolidated $415,147 6.4% $257,547 4.0% N/A First National Bank of Omaha $186,025 5.8% $127,758 4.0% $159,697 5.0% 17 Pursuant to Federal Reserve Bank requirements, the Company's banking subsidiaries are required to maintain certain cash reserve balances with the Federal Reserve system. At December 31, 1997 and 1996, the aggregate required cash reserve balances were approximately $58,924,000 and $55,784,000, respectively. K. Fair Values of Financial Instruments: The following presents the carrying amount and fair value of the specified assets and liabilities held by the Company at December 31, 1997 and 1996. The information presented is based on pertinent information available to management as of December 31, 1997 and 1996. Although management is not aware of any factors that would significantly affect the estimated fair value amounts, such amounts have not been comprehensively revalued since that time, and the current estimated fair value of these financial instruments may have changed since that point in time. Securities: The fair value of the Company's securities is based on the quoted market prices at December 31, 1997 and 1996. Available-for-sale securities are carried at their aggregate fair value. The carrying amount and fair value of the Company's held-to-maturity securities at December 31, 1997 was $872,907,000 and $874,646,000, respectively. The carrying amount and fair value of the Company's available-for-sale securities at December 31, 1997 was $381,337,000. The carrying amount and fair value of the Company's held-to-maturity securities at December 31, 1996 was $649,799,000 and $650,897,000, respectively. The carrying amount and fair value of the Company's available-for-sale securities at December 31, 1996 was $256,919,000. Loans: The fair value of the Company's loans have been estimated using two methods: 1) the carrying amount of short-term and variable rate loans approximates fair value; and 2) for all other loans, discounting of projected future cash flows. When using the discounting method, loans are gathered by homogeneous groups with similar terms and conditions and discounted at a target rate at which similar loans would be made to borrowers at year end. In addition, when computing the estimated fair value for all loans, the allowance for loan losses is subtracted from the calculated fair value for consideration of credit issues. At December 31, 1997, the carrying amount and fair value of the Company's loans was $4,806,355,000 and $4,997,061,000, respectively. The carrying amount of loans for 1997 consists of gross loans of $5,010,982,000 less allowance for loan losses of $128,990,000 less leases of $75,637,000. The fair value of loans for 1997 consists of gross loans of $5,201,688,000 less allowance for loan losses and leases. At December 31, 1996, the carrying amount and fair value of the Company's loans was $4,936,168,000 and $5,134,929,000, respectively. The carrying amount of loans for 1996 consists of gross loans of $5,107,041,000 less allowance for loan losses of $104,812,000 less leases of $66,061,000. The fair value of loans for 1996 consists of gross loans of $5,305,802,000 less allowance for loan losses and leases. Deposits: The methodologies used to estimate the fair value of deposits are similar to the two methods used to fair value loans. Deposits are gathered in homogeneous groups and the future cash flows of these groups are discounted using current market rates offered for similar products at year end. The carrying amount and fair value of the Company's deposits at December 31, 1997 was $6,401,045,000 and $6,417,361,000, respectively. The carrying amount and fair value of the Company's deposits at December 31, 1996 was $5,836,169,000 and $5,851,127,000, respectively. Other Borrowings and Capital Notes: The fair value of other borrowings and capital notes is estimated by discounting future cash flows using current market rates for similar debt instruments. The carrying amount and fair value of other borrowings and capital notes at December 31, 1997 was $122,498,000 and $123,279,000, respectively. The carrying amount and fair value of other borrowings and capital notes at December 31, 1996 was $103,876,000 and $104,812,000, respectively. Other Financial Instruments: All other financial instruments of a material nature fall into the definition of short-term and fair value is estimated as the carrying amount. The carrying amount and fair value at December 31, 1997 of cash and due from banks was $428,832,000, federal funds sold and other short-term investments was $327,010,000, and other receivables and interest earned not collected was $158,914,000, which is included in other assets. The carrying amount and fair value at December 31, 1996 of cash and due from banks was $397,886,000, federal funds sold and other short-term investments was $277,028,000, and other receivables and interest earned not collected was $90,763,000, which is included in other assets. The carrying amount and fair value at December 31, 1997 of federal funds purchased and securities sold under repurchase agreements was $217,891,000, and accounts payable and accrued interest payable was $55,600,000, which is included in other liabilities. The carrying amount and fair value at December 31, 1996 of federal funds purchased and securities sold under repurchase agreements was $146,015,000, commercial paper and commercial paper based borrowings was $273,298,000, and accounts payable and accrued interest payable was $41,435,000, which is included in other liabilities. 18 Off-Balance Sheet Financial Instruments: All material amounts of off-balance sheet financial instruments are characterized as short-term instruments because of the conditions of the contract and repricing ability. The carrying value of all off-balance sheet instruments approximates the fair value. At December 31, 1997 and 1996, the Company had unused loan commitments of $1.3 billion; standby letters of credit of $49 million and $51 million, respectively; and unused consumer credit card lines of $17.5 billion and $15.4 billion, respectively. L. Acquisitions: During 1996, a bank holding company subsidiary acquired a financial institution in Colorado as part of the Company's strategy of expanding the banking franchise into the growing areas of neighboring states. This acquisition, which was accounted for as a purchase, occurred on August 6, 1996. Bolder Bancorporation, the holding company of the Bank of Boulder, had consolidated assets of approximately $126 million. The Bank of Boulder operates in two locations in Boulder, Colorado. M. New Accounting Pronouncements: In June 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued SFAS No. 130, "Reporting Comprehensive Income," which is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 1997. This statement establishes standards for reporting and display of comprehensive income and its components. Comprehensive income is defined as the change in equity of a business enterprise during a period from transactions and other events or circumstances from nonowner sources. In June 1997, the FASB also issued SFAS No. 131, "Disclosures about Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information," which is effective for financial statements for periods beginning after December 15, 1997. This statement establishes standards for the way that public business enterprises report information about operating segments in annual financial statements and requires that those enterprises report selected information about operating segments in financial reports issued to shareholders. It also establishes standards for related disclosures about products and services, geographic areas, and major customers. The provisions of both of these statements are of a disclosure nature only and will not have an effect on the Company's financial condition or results of operations. 19 N. Condensed Financial Information of First National of Nebraska: First National of Nebraska (parent company only) Condensed Statements of Financial Condition ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- December 31, Assets 1997 1996 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Amounts in Thousands) Cash and due from banks $ 603 $ 744 Other short-term investments 1,400 51,340 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total cash and cash equivalents 2,003 52,084 Securities available-for-sale 445 414 Loans to nonbanking subsidiaries 2,295 2,708 Investment in subsidiaries: First National Bank of Omaha 206,370 186,264 Other banking subsidiaries 338,002 310,336 Nonbanking subsidiaries 3,068 14,590 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total investment in subsidiaries 547,440 511,190 Other assets 6,047 1,120 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total assets $558,230 $567,516 ============================================================================================================================ Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Payable to subsidiary $ -- $ 2,075 Commercial paper -- 45,000 Other liabilities 4,172 4,239 Deferred gain on sale of buildings 5,767 6,369 Other borrowings 19,182 251 Capital notes 19,052 21,616 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total liabilities 48,173 79,550 Stockholders' equity: Common stock 1,675 1,734 Additional paid-in capital 2,515 2,604 Retained earnings 504,184 482,819 Net unrealized appreciation on available-for-sale securities, net of tax 1,683 809 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total stockholders' equity 510,057 487,966 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $558,230 $567,516 ============================================================================================================================ 20 First National of Nebraska (parent company only) Condensed Statements of Operations --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the years ended December 31, 1997 1996 1995 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Amounts in Thousands Except Share and Per Share Data) Revenues: Income from subsidiaries: Dividends from First National Bank of Omaha $ 21,491 $ 23,436 $ 81,724 Dividends from other banking subsidiaries 20,100 24,200 5,411 Dividends from nonbanking subsidiaries 13,069 5,600 2,800 Interest income on commercial paper 2,380 2,546 2,798 Recognized gain on sale of buildings 602 602 602 Recognized gain on sale of option -- -- 1,389 Investment interest and other income 796 569 795 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total revenues 58,438 56,953 95,519 Expenses: Interest 5,622 5,065 9,461 Other 2,243 2,338 837 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total expenses 7,865 7,403 10,298 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Income before income taxes and equity in undistributed (overdistributed) earnings of subsidiaries 50,573 49,550 85,221 Income tax expense (benefit) 371 (174) (2,273) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total income before equity in undistributed (overdistributed) earnings of subsidiaries 50,202 49,724 87,494 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Equity in undistributed (overdistributed) earnings of subsidiaries: First National Bank of Omaha 19,528 21,669 (20,801) Other banking subsidiaries 10,187 598 14,355 Nonbanking subsidiaries (4,730) (1,759) 1,193 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total equity in undistributed (overdistributed) earnings of subsidiaries 24,985 20,508 (5,253) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net income $ 75,187 $ 70,232 $ 82,241 ================================================================================================================================= Average number of shares outstanding 340,706 346,767 346,767 ================================================================================================================================= Net income per share $ 220.68 $ 202.53 $ 237.17 ================================================================================================================================= 21 First National of Nebraska (parent company only) Condensed Statements of Cash Flows - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the years ended December 31, 1997 1996 1995 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Amounts in Thousands) CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES Net Income $ 75,187 $ 70,232 $ 82,241 Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash flows from operating activities: Equity in (undistributed) overdistributed earnings of subsidiaries (24,985) (20,508) 5,253 Recognized gain on sale of buildings (602) (602) (602) Recognized gain on sale of option -- -- (1,389) Other, net (28) 415 (259) - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net cash flows from operating activities 49,572 49,537 85,244 CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES Proceeds from sale of option -- -- 2,889 Change in investment in subsidiaries and other assets (14,975) (35,102) (16,237) - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net cash flows from investing activities (14,975) (35,102) (13,348) CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES Issuance of other borrowings and capital notes $ 52,029 $ 23,000 $ 15,000 Principal repayments of other borrowings and capital notes (80,662) (27,232) (66,894) Repayment of payable to subsidiary (2,075) -- -- Repurchase and retirement of common stock (42,362) -- -- Cash dividends paid (11,608) (12,906) (11,696) - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net cash flows from financing activities (84,678) (17,138) (63,590) - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net change in cash and cash equivalents (50,081) (2,703) 8,306 Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 52,084 54,787 46,481 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Cash and cash equivalents at end of year $ 2,003 $ 52,084 $ 54,787 =========================================================================================================== Cash paid during the year for: Interest $ 5,735 $ 5,328 $ 9,171 Noncash investing and financing activities: Noncash consideration for business acquisitions $ -- $ -- $ 15,198 =========================================================================================================== 22 Independent Auditors' Report Board of Directors and Stockholders First National of Nebraska, Inc. Omaha, Nebraska We have audited the accompanying consolidated statements of financial condition of First National of Nebraska, Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 1997 and 1996, and the related consolidated statements of income, stockholders' equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1997. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards. 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 First National of Nebraska, Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 1997 and 1996, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1997, in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles. /s/ Deloitte & Touche Omaha, Nebraska February 3, 1998 23 Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- General: The Company consists of the parent company, which is a Nebraska-based interstate bank holding company, and its consolidated subsidiaries. Its principal subsidiaries include First National Bank of Omaha and its wholly-owned subsidiaries; First National Bank and Trust Company of Columbus; First National Bank, North Platte; Platte Valley State Bank and Trust Company, Kearney; The Fremont National Bank and Trust Company; First National Bank of Kansas, Overland Park, Kansas; First National Bank South Dakota, Yankton, South Dakota; and First National of Colorado, Inc., and its wholly-owned Colorado subsidiaries which primarily include: First National Bank, Fort Collins; Union Colony Bank, Greeley; The Bank of Boulder; and FNC Trust Group, N.A. The Company also has nonbanking subsidiaries, which in the aggregate are not material. The Company is governed by various regulatory agencies. Bank holding companies and their nonbanking subsidiaries are regulated by the Federal Reserve Board. National banks are primarily regulated by the OCC. All federally-insured banks are also regulated by the FDIC. The Company's banking subsidiaries include eight national banks and three state-chartered banks, all of which are insured by the FDIC. The state-chartered banks are also regulated by state banking authorities. The Company has 45 years of experience providing credit card services and was one of the originators of the bank credit card industry. Through a banking subsidiary, the Company conducts a significant consumer credit card service under license arrangements with VISA USA and MasterCard International, Inc. The Company's credit card customers are located throughout the United States, but primarily in the Midwest. At December 31, 1997, the Company ranked among the top 25 card issuing entities based on the amount of managed credit card loans outstanding. The Company generally originates new credit card accounts for itself with the exception of a $265 million credit card portfolio purchased in June 1997. The Company performs credit card servicing activities on behalf of its affiliate banks including data processing, payment processing, statement rendering, marketing, customer service, credit administration and card embossing. The Company primarily funds its credit card loans through the core deposits of its affiliate banks. Competitors of the Company include commercial banks, savings and loan associations, consumer and commercial finance companies, credit unions and other financial services companies. The Company's credit card operation competes with other issuers of credit cards ranging from other national issuers of bank cards to local retailers which provide their own credit cards. Like other companies with significant credit card operations, declining asset quality due to increased consumer delinquencies and charge-offs has resulted in industry-wide pressure on the profitability of credit card operations. The Company continues to make substantial investments in data processing technology for its own data processing needs and to provide various data processing services for unaffiliated parties. The services provided include automated clearinghouse transactions, merchant credit card processing, and check processing. The Company has ranked among the top six merchant credit card processors in the United States with over $16 billion transactions processed in 1997 and $15 billion transactions processed in 1996. It has also ranked among the 25 largest automated clearinghouse processors in the country and is one of the largest check processors in its market area. Furthermore, the Company provides data processing services to 40 non-affiliated banks located in nine states. Fee income continues to increase through the ongoing expansion of these processing services. The Company continues to closely monitor the risks and competitive conditions as they relate to pricing and technological issues associated with these processing services. Year 2000: A significant technological issue impacting all companies worldwide is the need to modify their computer information systems to properly process transactions relating to the year 2000 and beyond. The Company has implemented a Company-wide program to prepare its computer systems and applications for the year 2000. The Company is incurring internal staff costs as well as consulting and other expenses related to the execution of the implementation plan. A portion of these expenses may be incorporated in the cost of normal software upgrades and involve the redeployment of existing information technology resources. Presently, management has not yet completely determined the year 2000 implementation costs, but they are not expected to have a material financial impact on the Company. The Company's plans include necessary reviews of vendors, customers, third party processors and other external parties with whom the Company conducts business. Until sufficient information is accumulated to assess the degree to which the Company is susceptible to potential problems, the Company is unable to quantify possible losses associated with these external relationships. 24 Management's discussion and analysis contains forward looking statements which reflect management's current views and estimates of future economic circumstances, industry conditions, company performance and the financial results. The statements are based on many assumptions and factors, including general economic conditions, consumer behavior, competitive environment and related market conditions, operating efficiencies, and actions of governments. Any changes in such assumptions or factors could produce different results. Results of Operations: Overview: Net income for the year 1997 was $75.2 million, or $220.68 per share, compared to $70.2 million, or $202.53 per share, for 1996. Net income for 1997 increased $5 million, or 7.1%, compared to 1996. The increase of $18.15 in earnings per share from 1996 is partially attributable to the repurchase and retirement of 11,767 shares of the Company's common stock in 1997. In 1996, net income decreased by $12 million, or 14.6%, compared to 1995. Return on average equity for 1997 was 15.2% compared to 15.4% for 1996 and 20.8% for 1995. Return on average assets for 1997 and 1996 was 1.1% decreasing from 1.5% in 1995. The return on average assets and equity ratios remain favorable in spite of a reduction from prior years primarily due to increases in the provision for loan losses as a result of increased delinquencies and charge-offs on credit card and other consumer loans. Notwithstanding the increased provision for loan losses, earnings have remained strong due to continued growth in net interest income and noninterest income which continues to surpass the growth rate of operating expenses. Net interest income: The Company's primary source of income is net interest income which is defined as the difference between interest income and fees derived from earning assets and interest expense on interest-bearing liabilities. Interest income and expense are affected by changes in the volume and mix of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities, in addition to changes in interest rates. In 1997, net interest income was $498 million, a 2.6% increase over 1996. In 1996, net interest income was $485.2 million, a 13.7% increase over 1995. These increases are primarily attributable to increased earning assets net of an increase in the volume of interest-bearing liabilities. The favorable trend of increased net interest income over the three-year period ending December 31, 1997 corresponds to the Company's strong loan growth and successful asset and liability management strategies. Provision for loan losses: On a monthly basis, the Company evaluates its allowance for loan losses based upon a review of collateral values, delinquencies, non-accruals, payment histories and various other analytical and subjective measures relating to the various loan portfolios within the Company. The provision for loan losses increased $21.4 million to $201.5 million for 1997 compared to $180.1 million for 1996. In 1996, the provision for loan losses increased $77.3 million compared to 1995. The increases in the provision for loan losses relates to higher net charge-offs and continued strengthening of the loan loss allowance for potential future losses. The increase in net charge-offs is primarily attributable to the continued rise in delinquencies on credit card loans which is being experienced throughout the credit card industry. Noninterest income: Noninterest income was $231.9 million in 1997, an increase of 32.5%, or $56.9 million, compared to 1996. In 1996, noninterest income was $175.1 million, an increase of 30.3%, or $40.7 million, from 1995. These increases were primarily due to processing services income increasing by 25.6% in 1997 and 39.2% in 1996 reflecting increased loan servicing income and the growth in volumes processed from new and existing customers in merchant processing. Deposit services income increased 14.8% in 1997 and 14.7% in 1996 due primarily to the growth in total deposits. Income related to trust and investment services and commissions increased in 1997 and 1996 as a result of growth in the Company's customer base and the expansion of services provided to customers. Noninterest income also includes a gain recorded on sales of credit card loans of $17.2 million during 1997. Miscellaneous income increased by 19.6% in 1997 partially due to increased gains on sales of investment securities and miscellaneous fee income. Miscellaneous income increased by 29.8% in 1996 primarily due to income derived from a change in merchant authorization processing. 25 Noninterest expense: Noninterest expense was $404.5 million in 1997, an increase of 10.6% or $38.7 million, from 1996. Noninterest expense in 1996 was $365.8 million, an increase of 11.4% or $37.4 million from 1995. A significant portion of the increase in noninterest expense was due to salaries and employee benefits which increased 14.9% in 1997 and 13.4% in 1996 resulting from overall Company growth. Purchased processing expense increased 26.5% in 1997 partially due to credit card processing expenses temporarily paid to an external processor until conversion of a newly acquired credit card portfolio to the Company's computer system. Other professional services increased 10.5% in 1997 and 40.4% in 1996 due to increased merchant acquisition costs. Miscellaneous expense increased 24% due to amortization of the premium related to credit card relationships purchased in 1997. Increases in remaining expense categories relate to continued Company growth. This growth is primarily due to increased processing volumes, the acquisition of new customer relationships, continued investments in technology, and acquisitions. These increases were partially offset by a decrease of 8.7% in communication and supplies expense from 1997 to 1996 due to reductions in marketing expenditures. Management continues to focus on expense control in their operating decisions to improve the efficiencies of the Company. Asset Quality: The Company's loan delinquency rates and net charge-off activity reflect, among other factors, general economic conditions, the quality of the loans, the average seasoning of the loans and the success of the Company's collection efforts. The Company's objective in managing its loan portfolio is to balance and optimize the profitability of the loans within the context of acceptable risk characteristics. The Company continually monitors the risks embedded in the loan portfolio with the use of statistically-based computer simulation models. The consumer credit industry continues to experience historically high levels of delinquencies and charge-offs. As a major credit card issuer, the Company also continues to experience increased net charge-off and delinquency rates. As a result, the Company has increased its allowance for loan losses by $24.2 million, or 23.1%, from December 31, 1996 to December 31, 1997. The increased charge-off trends are likely to continue through the next year. The Company also expects that selected segments of consumers may continue to experience declines in credit quality. Therefore, management continues to evaluate credit standards and reduce marketing expenditures. Consumer behavior is being closely monitored to determine if future changes in credit standards or marketing strategies will be required. The following table reflects the delinquency rates for the Company's overall loan portfolio and for credit cards and related plans. An account is contractually delinquent if the minimum payment is not received by the specified billing date. The overall delinquency rate as a percentage of total loans was 3.56% at December 31, 1997 compared with 3.86% at December 31, 1996. The reduction in the outstanding balance of credit cards and related plans of $488 million during 1997 is primarily related to additional sales of $750 million of credit card loans, net of a $265 million increase related to the purchase of a credit card loan portfolio. Delinquent Loans: December 31, 1997 December 31, 1996 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Amounts in Thousands) Total Loans % of Loans % of Loans - ----------- ---------- ---------- Loans outstanding $ 5,010,982 $ 5,107,041 Loans delinquent: 30 - 89 days $ 112,300 2.24% $ 123,420 2.42% 90 days or more & still accruing 66,221 1.32% 73,580 1.44% ----------------- ------------------- -------------- ------------------- Total delinquent loans $ 178,521 3.56% $ 197,000 3.86% ================= =================== ============== =================== Nonaccrual loans $ 5,289 .11% $ 7,231 .14% ================= =================== ============== =================== Credit Cards and Related Plans - ------------------------------ Loans outstanding $ 2,428,437 $ 2,916,392 Loans delinquent: 30 - 89 days $ 89,902 3.70% $ 102,538 3.52% 90 days or more & still accruing 62,969 2.59% 68,827 2.36% ----------------- ------------------- -------------- -------------------- Total delinquent loans $ 152,871 6.29% $ 171,365 5.88% ================= =================== ============== ==================== Nonaccrual loans -- -- -- -- ================= =================== ============== ==================== 26 The Company's policy is to charge off credit card and related loans when they become 180 days contractually past due. Net loan charge-offs include the principal amount of losses resulting from borrowers' unwillingness or inability to pay, in addition to bankrupt and deceased borrowers, less current period recoveries of previously charged-off loans. The allowance for loan losses is intended to cover losses inherent in the Company's loan portfolio as of the reporting date. The provision for loan losses is charged against earnings to cover both current period net charge-offs and to maintain the allowance at an acceptable level to cover losses inherent in the portfolio as of the reporting date. Net charge-offs for the Company's overall portfolio were $188.2 million for the year ended December 31, 1997 compared to $144.7 million for the same period in 1996. Net charge-offs as a percentage of average loans were 3.67% for 1997 compared to 3.15% for 1996. The allowance as a percentage of loans increased to 2.57% for 1997 compared to 2.05% for 1996. The following table presents the activity in the Company's allowance for loan losses with a breakdown of charge-off and recovery activity related to credit cards and related plans. Allowance for Loan Losses: For the Years Ended December 31, 1997 1996 --------------------------------------------------------- (Amounts in Thousands) Balance at January 1 $ 104,812 $ 67,740 Addition due to loan portfolio purchase 10,895 -- Addition due to acquisition -- 1,738 Provision for loan losses 201,494 180,059 Loans charged off: Credit cards and related plans (207,479) (157,763) All other loans (7,665) (6,948) Loans recovered: Credit cards and related plans 24,550 18,562 All other loans 2,383 1,424 -------------------- -------------------- Total net charge-offs (188,211) (144,725) -------------------- -------------------- Balance at December 31 $ 128,990 $ 104,812 ==================== ==================== Allowance as a percentage of loans 2.57% 2.05% Total net charge-offs as a percentage of average loans 3.67% 3.15% Capital Resources: As described in Note J, the Company and its banking subsidiaries are required to maintain minimum capital in accordance with regulatory guidelines. At December 31, 1997, First National Bank of Omaha and all other banking subsidiaries of the Company exceeded the minimum requirements for the "well-capitalized" category as established by supervisory agencies. The Company intends to maintain sufficient capital in each of its banking subsidiaries to remain in the "well capitalized" category. On June 27, 1997, the Company repurchased 11,767 shares of the Company's common stock. The 11,767 shares repurchased were retired decreasing the total number of shares issued and outstanding to 335,000. In addition, the Company's Senior Management Incentive Plan purchased 2,750 shares of the Company's common stock. The purchase prices of these transactions were negotiated at arm's length and reflected the fair value of the Company's common stock. In 1995, First National Bank of Omaha issued $75 million in 15 year subordinated capital notes. These subordinated capital notes, along with $19.1 million in capital notes outstanding as of December 31, 1997 in connection with the Company's previous acquisitions, count towards meeting the required capital standards, subject to certain limitations. The Company has historically retained approximately 85% of net income in capital to fund the growth of future operations and to maintain minimum capital standards. 27 Liquidity Management: Adequate liquidity levels are necessary to ensure that sufficient funds are available for loan growth and deposit withdrawals. These funding needs are offset by funds generated from loan repayments, investment maturities, and core deposit growth. The Company's Asset/Liability Committee is responsible for monitoring the current and forecasted balance sheet structure to ensure anticipated funding needs can be met at a reasonable cost. Contingency plans are in place to meet unanticipated funding needs or loss of funding sources. Domestic retail deposits are used as the primary source of funding for all banking subsidiaries. In order to maintain flexibility and diversity in liquidity management the Company also has access to a variety of other funding sources. These other sources include securities sold under repurchase agreements, federal funds purchased, securitization, other short-term and long-term debt, and subordinated capital notes. The parent company's cash flows are dependent upon the receipt of dividends from its banking subsidiaries which are subject to regulatory restrictions. The Company's securitization program was established in 1995, providing further diversity of credit card funding. At December 31, 1997 and 1996, $950 million and $200 million, respectively, of the Company's managed credit card portfolio was securitized. The parent company replaced an existing $75 million revolving credit line with a $100 million syndicated revolving credit facility in December 1997. As part of the syndicated credit facility arranged for the parent company, a $150 million revolving credit facility for the Bank was also arranged for general liquidity purposes in December 1997. Interest Rate Risk Management: The Company's primary component of market risk is interest rate volatility. It is the goal of the Company to maximize profits while effectively managing rather than eliminating interest rate risk. Two primary measures are used to measure and manage interest rate risk: Net Interest Income Simulation Modeling and Interest Rate Sensitivity Gap Analysis. Net Interest Income Simulation: The Company uses a simulation model to analyze net interest income sensitivity to movements in interest rates. The simulation model projects net interest income based on both upward and downward interest rate shifts over a twelve month period. Alternative scenarios are simulated by applying immediate shifts in interest rates (rate shocks) and gradual shifts in interest rates (rate ramps). These interest rate shifts are applied to a projected balance sheet for the Company for the twelve month simulation period. Based on the information and assumptions in effect at December 31, 1997, management believes that a 200 basis point rate shock or rate ramp over a twelve month period, up or down, would not significantly affect the Company's annualized net interest income. The Company has established guidelines that limit the acceptable potential change in net interest margin and net income under these interest rate and balance sheet scenarios. Given the minimal potential for significant risk exposure relating to potential losses in future earnings, fair values or cash flows of interest-rate-sensitive instruments illustrated by the simulations, the Company does not engage in derivative transactions such as hedges, swaps, or futures. Interest Rate Sensitivity Gap Analysis: The Company uses interest rate sensitivity gap analysis to monitor the relationship between the maturity and repricing of its interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities, while maintaining an acceptable interest rate spread. Interest rate sensitivity gap is defined as the difference between the amount of interest-earning assets maturing or repricing within a specific time period and the amount of interest-bearing liabilities maturing or repricing within that time period. A gap is considered positive when the amount of interest-rate-sensitive assets exceeds the amount of interest-rate-sensitive liabilities, and is considered negative when the amount of interest-rate- sensitive liabilities exceeds the amount of interest-rate-sensitive assets. Generally, during a period of rising interest rates, a negative gap would adversely affect net interest income, while a positive gap would result in an increase in net interest income. Conversely, during a period of falling interest rates, a negative gap would result in an increase in net interest income, while a positive gap would negatively affect net interest income. Management's goal is to maintain a reasonable balance between exposure to interest rate fluctuations and earnings. 28 The following table represents management's estimate of projected maturity or repricing of the Company's interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities at December 31, 1997. Management believes that the table will approximate actual experience; however, it should be noted that the gap analysis is a point in time measurement that does not capture all aspects of interest rate risk. Greater Than Three Months One Year Over Three Months Less Than Through Five As of December 31, 1997 or Less One Year Five Years Years Total - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Amounts in Thousands) Earning assets: Investment activities $ 384,130 $ 234,967 $ 896,432 $ 65,725 $1,581,254 Lending activities 2,399,059 465,738 1,853,266 292,919 5,010,982 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total earning assets 2,783,189 700,705 2,749,698 358,644 6,592,236 Interest-bearing liabilities 2,294,833 1,717,052 1,797,859 89,495 5,899,239 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Interest sensitive gap 488,356 (1,016,347) 951,839 269,149 692,997 Gap as a percent of total earning assets 7.4% (15.4)% 14.4% 4.1% 10.5% ================================================================================================================================ Cumulative interest sensitive gap 488,356 (527,991) 423,848 692,997 Cumulative gap as a percent of total earning assets 7.4% (8.0)% 6.4% 10.5% ================================================================================================================================ 29 First National of Nebraska and Subsidiaries Selected Financial Data - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Years ended December 31, 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (Amounts in Thousands Except Per Share Data) Total interest income and noninterest income $ 1,047,041 $ 940,471 $ 825,735 $ 645,806 $ 546,106 Provision for loan losses 201,494 180,059 102,767 71,698 67,083 Net income 75,187 70,232 82,241 77,133 70,082 Net income per share 220.68 202.53 237.17 222.43 202.10 Cash dividends per share 33.76 37.22 33.73 38.07 16.86 Total assets 7,332,021 6,912,057 6,110,542 5,261,907 4,271,853 Managed assets (1) 8,282,021 7,112,057 6,310,542 5,261,907 4,271,853 Other borrowings and capital notes 122,498 103,876 109,216 60,966 60,705 The Company's stock is traded over-the-counter. Bid price quotes per share, high and low, by quarter (2) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1997 1996 High Low High Low ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1st quarter $3,550 $3,300 $4,300 $3,650 2nd quarter 3,900 3,450 4,100 3,900 3rd quarter 4,100 3,800 3,900 3,400 4th quarter 4,000 3,600 3,400 3,400 Dividends per share - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1997 1996 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1st quarter $ 8.44 $11.90 2nd quarter 16.88 16.88 3rd quarter 8.44 8.44 Number of stockholders - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- As of January 31, 1998, there were 335,000 shares of common stock issued and outstanding which were held by more than 400 shareholders of record. The shareholders of record number does not reflect the persons or entities who hold their stock in nominee or "street" name. (1) Reported assets plus securitized credit card loans (2) Source: Kirkpatrick Pettis Inc., Omaha, Nebraska Such over-the-counter market quotations reflect interdealer prices, without retail mark-up, mark-down or commission and may not necessarily represent actual transactions. The parent company's common stock experiences limited trading activities. 30 ====================================================== First National of Nebraska OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS ====================================================== BRUCE R. LAURITZEN CHAIRMAN, PRESIDENT & DIRECTOR ELIAS J. ELIOPOULOS EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & DIRECTOR F. PHILLIPS GILTNER CHAIRMAN EMERITUS & DIRECTOR J. WILLIAM HENRY EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & DIRECTOR MARGARET M. LAURITZEN DIRECTOR DENNIS A. O'NEAL EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, TREASURER & DIRECTOR DANIEL K. O'NEILL DIRECTOR CHARLES R. WALKER EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, SECRETARY & DIRECTOR 31 FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF OMAHA SENIOR OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS ================================================================================================================================== BRUCE R. LAURITZEN...............CHAIRMAN, PRESIDENT & DIRECTOR Elias J. Eliopoulos.....Executive Vice President & Director Dennis A. O'Neal........Executive Vice President & Director J. William Henry........Executive Vice President & Director Charles R. Walker.......Executive Vice President & Director - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- F. Phillips Giltner.....Chairman Emeritus & Director Robert W. Tritsch.......Director Herbert J. Young........Director - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Marc M Diehl.................Senior Vice President & Director, Trust James L. Doody...............Senior Vice President & Director, First Bankcard Center Charles H. Fries, Jr.........Senior Vice President & Director, Corporate & Financial Institutions Frances A. Marshall..........Senior Vice President & Director, First Integrated Systems Laurie A. Minarik............Senior Vice President & Director, Retail Banking James C.C. Schmidt...........Senior Vice President & Director, Technology Services Timothy D. Hart..............Senior Vice President & Comptroller, Corporate Administration Russell K. Oatman............Senior Vice President & Cashier, First Financial Services Robert J. Urban..............Senior Vice President, Personnel ================================================================================================================================== THE BANK OF BOULDER BOULDER, COLORADO - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAVID M. GILMAN, CHAIRMAN & PRESIDENT - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Directors Larry F. Frey Richard E. Geesaman David M. Gilman Caroline J. Hoyt Earl E. McLaughlin Dennis A. O'Neal Carroll V. SoRelle Thomas W. Ward ================================================================================================================================== FIRST NATIONAL BANK FORT COLLINS-LOVELAND, COLORADO - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- THOMAS J. GLEASON, CHAIRMAN MARK P. DRISCOLL, PRESIDENT - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Directors Mark P. Driscoll John A. Duffey Dwight L. Ghent Thomas J. Gleason Roger G. Gunlikson Douglas E. Markley Dennis A. O'Neal Merlin G. Otteman, MD Stephen J. Schrader Wayne K. Schrader David L. Wood Mark J. Soukup, Director Emeritus ================================================================================================================================== FIRST NATIONAL BANK AND TRUST COMPANY OF COLUMBUS COLUMBUS-NORFOLK, NEBRASKA - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- JOHN M. PECK, PRESIDENT - COLUMBUS JAMES R. MANGELS, PRESIDENT - NORFOLK - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Directors James M. Bator Donald N. Dworak Randal J. Emrich Clark D. Lehr John F. Lohr Robert P. Loshbaugh James R. Mangels Larry D. Marik John M. Peck Steven K. Ritzman Noyes W. Rogers Donald M. Schupbach Dwayne G. Smith Charles R. Walker ================================================================================================================================== FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF KANSAS OVERLAND PARK, KANSAS - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- STUART C. LANG, PRESIDENT - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Directors Linda A. Acker Ben T. Embry Blair L. Gogel J. William Henry Stuart C. Lang James A. Polsinelli Marilyn Scafe - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 32 ==================================================================================================================================== FIRST NATIONAL BANK NORTH PLATTE - ALLIANCE - CHADRON - GERING - SCOTTSBLUFF, NEBRASKA - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ L.H. "RICK" KOLKMAN, PRESIDENT - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Directors J. William Henry Orville A. Kaschke James D. Keenan Donald D. Kilgore L.H. "Rick" Kolkman William J. Pfister William C. Snodgrass Gary M. Trego Ralph M. Tysdal ==================================================================================================================================== THE FREMONT NATIONAL BANK AND TRUST COMPANY FREMONT, NEBRASKA - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ THOMAS J. MILLIKEN, CHAIRMAN DAVID N. SIMMONS, PRESIDENT - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Directors Marc M Diehl Rupert L. Dunklau William R. Emanuel H. Haines Hill Jim A. Hoshor Helen J. Krause Thomas J. Milliken David N. Simmons William F. Snyder Charles R. Walker ==================================================================================================================================== PLATTE VALLEY STATE BANK & TRUST COMPANY KEARNEY, NEBRASKA - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ WAYNE R. MCKINNEY, CHAIRMAN MARK A. SUTKO, PRESIDENT - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Directors Jeff G. Beattie Gerald L. Dulitz Byron D. Hansen Peter G. Kotsiopulos Robin W. Marshall Wayne R. McKinney Dennis A. O'Neal John H. Schulte, MD Mark A. Sutko Gerald J. Tomka Sidney R. Hellman, Honorary Jack M. Horner, Honorary Robert P. Sahling, Honorary Carl C. Spelts, Honorary ==================================================================================================================================== FIRST NATIONAL BANK SOUTH DAKOTA YANKTON, SOUTH DAKOTA - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ RANDALL A. JOHNSON, PRESIDENT - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Directors James L. Doody Elias J. Eliopoulos Wilbur P. Foss Randall A. Johnson Joleen M. Smith Charles R. Walker ==================================================================================================================================== UNION COLONY BANK GREELEY-WINDSOR, COLORADO - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ LAWRENCE W. MENEFEE, CHAIRMAN JAMES L. TUGGLE, PRESIDENT - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Directors Victor J. Campbell George W. Doering Harold G. Evans Kay Kosmicki James R. Listen Lawrence W. Menefee Dennis A. O'Neal Robert A. Ruyle Masoud S. Shirazi Michael V. Shoop F. Scott Thomas John M. Todd James L. Tuggle John C. Todd, Director Emeritus - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 33 ======================================================================================================================= COLLECTION CORPORATION OF AMERICA - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- JAMES W. SHANAHAN, PRESIDENT JOSEPH W. BARRY, VICE PRESIDENT JOHN K. KEADY, VICE PRESIDENT DOUGLAS E. KOZENY, VICE PRESIDENT MARK L. MATHIA, SECOND VICE PRESIDENT ======================================================================================================================= DATA MANAGEMENT PRODUCTS - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- JAMES A. MILLS, PRESIDENT MICHAEL J. REYNOLDS, VICE PRESIDENT ======================================================================================================================= FIRST OF OMAHA MERCHANT PROCESSING - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ELIAS J. ELIOPOULOS, PRESIDENT DONALD M. GERHARD, EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT NICHOLAS W. BAXTER, SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT MICHAEL C. PHELAN, SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT ======================================================================================================================= FIRST NATIONAL SERVICES CORPORATION - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- STEVEN K. RITZMAN, VICE PRESIDENT & SENIOR CREDIT OFFICER DONALD A. FEES, DIRECTOR OF LOAN REVIEW R. RAY LOCKHART, DIRECTOR OF INTERNAL AUDIT ======================================================================================================================= FIRST TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- JAMES C.C. SCHMIDT, PRESIDENT CHARLES M. HUETTER, NETWORK SERVICES DIVISION MANAGER JEFFREY L. ROBERTS, REGIONAL SALES MANAGER WILLIAM A. SWICK, SOFTWARE SERVICES DIVISION MANAGER LARRY D. WATSON, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER KIMBERLY M. WHITTAKER, REGIONAL SALES MANAGER ======================================================================================================================= PLATTE VALLEY FINANCE COMPANY - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DIANN KOLKMAN, PRESIDENT ROGER L. MILLER, MANAGER ======================================================================================================================= RETRIEVER PAYMENT SYSTEMS - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ELIAS J. ELIOPOULOS, CHAIRMAN WILLIAM H. HIGGINS, PRESIDENT - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 34