Biggest changeRisks Related to General Operations • Includes risks related to our controls and procedures, our operational or security systems or infrastructure, or those of third parties, security risks (including cyber-attacks, information security breaches and other similar incidents and those associated with debit cards and debit card transactions), the failure of vendors, the accuracy and completeness of information we receive about our customers and counterparties to make credit decisions, our ability to attract and retain experienced and qualified personnel, losses incurred in connection with actual or projected repurchases and indemnification payments related to mortgages that we have sold into the secondary market and the occurrence of extraordinary events, such as acts of war, terrorist attacks, natural disasters and public health threats.
Biggest changeRisks Related to Financial Strength and Liquidity • Includes risks related to changes in prevailing interest rates, our liquidity position, an actual or perceived reduction in our financial strength, loss of deposits or a change in deposit mix, our credit rating, capital not being available when it is needed or the cost of that capital being very high, disruption in the financial markets, and being a bank holding company and therefore being limited in sources of funds, including to pay dividends. 23 Risks Related to General Operations • Includes risks related to our controls and procedures, our operational or security systems or infrastructure, or those of third parties, security risks (including cyber-attacks, information security breaches and other similar incidents and those associated with debit cards and debit card transactions), the failure of vendors, the accuracy and completeness of information we receive about our customers and counterparties to make credit decisions, our ability to attract and retain experienced and qualified personnel, losses incurred in connection with actual or projected repurchases and indemnification payments related to mortgages that we have sold into the secondary market and the occurrence of extraordinary events, such as acts of war, terrorist attacks, natural disasters and public health threats.
Acquiring other banks, businesses or branches involves various risks commonly associated with acquisitions, including, among other things: (1) potential exposure to unknown or contingent liabilities or asset quality issues of the target company; (2) failure to adequately estimate the level of loan losses at the target company; (3) difficulty and expense of integrating the operations and personnel of the target company; (4) potential disruption to our business, including diversion of our management's time and attention; 26 (5) the possible loss of key employees and customers of the target company; (6) difficulty in estimating the value of the target company; and (7) potential changes in banking or tax laws or regulations that may affect the target company.
Acquiring other banks, businesses or branches involves various risks commonly associated with acquisitions, including, among other things: (1) potential exposure to unknown or contingent liabilities or asset quality issues of the target company; (2) failure to adequately estimate the level of loan losses at the target company; (3) difficulty and expense of integrating the operations and personnel of the target company; (4) potential disruption to our business, including diversion of our management's time and attention; (5) the possible loss of key employees and customers of the target company; (6) difficulty in estimating the value of the target company; and (7) potential changes in banking or tax laws or regulations that may affect the target company.
A successful penetration or circumvention of system security could cause us serious negative consequences, including our loss of customers and business opportunities, significant disruption to our operations and business, misappropriation or destruction of our confidential, personal, proprietary or other information and/or that of our customers or other third parties, or damage to our or our customers’ and/or third parties’ computers, systems or networks, and could result in a violation of applicable data privacy and cybersecurity laws and regulations and other laws and regulations, litigation exposure, 40 regulatory fines, penalties or intervention, remediation costs, loss of confidence in our security measures, reputational damage, reimbursement or other compensatory costs, remediation costs, additional compliance costs, and could adversely impact our results of operations, liquidity and financial condition.
A successful penetration or circumvention of system security could cause us serious negative consequences, including our loss of customers and business opportunities, significant disruption to our operations and business, misappropriation or destruction of our confidential, personal, proprietary or other information and/or that of our customers or other third parties, or damage to our or our customers’ and/or third parties’ computers, systems or networks, and could result in a violation of applicable data privacy and cybersecurity laws and regulations and other laws and regulations, litigation exposure, regulatory fines, penalties or intervention, remediation costs, loss of confidence in our security measures, reputational damage, reimbursement or other compensatory costs, remediation costs, additional compliance costs, and could adversely impact our results of operations, liquidity and financial condition.
Maintaining trust in the Company is critical to our ability to attract and maintain customers, investors and employees. If our reputation is damaged, our business could be significantly harmed. Harm to our reputation could arise from numerous sources, including, among others, employee misconduct, security breaches, compliance failures, litigation or regulatory outcomes or governmental investigations.
Maintaining trust in the Company is critical to our ability to attract and maintain customers, investors and employees. If our reputation is damaged, our business could be significantly harmed. Harm to our reputation could arise from numerous sources, including, among others, employee misconduct, security and cybersecurity breaches, compliance failures, litigation or regulatory outcomes or governmental investigations.
Our creditworthiness is not fixed and should be expected to change over time as a result of company performance and industry conditions. We cannot give any assurances that our credit ratings will remain at current levels, and it is possible that our ratings 36 could be lowered or withdrawn by Fitch Ratings or DBRS.
Our creditworthiness is not fixed and should be expected to change over time as a result of company performance and industry conditions. We cannot give any assurances that our credit ratings will remain at current levels, and it is possible that our ratings could be lowered or withdrawn by Fitch Ratings or DBRS.
We also rely on representations of those customers, counterparties, or other third parties, such as independent auditors, as to the accuracy and completeness of that information. Reliance on inaccurate or misleading financial statements, credit reports, or other financial information could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We also rely on representations of those customers, counterparties, or other third parties, such as independent auditors, as to the 42 accuracy and completeness of that information. Reliance on inaccurate or misleading financial statements, credit reports, or other financial information could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
These expenses may be higher than we expected or than our experience has shown, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. 27 Legal and Regulatory Risks If we fail to meet our regulatory capital ratios, we may be forced to raise capital or sell assets.
These expenses may be higher than we expected or than our experience has shown, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Legal and Regulatory Risks If we fail to meet our regulatory capital ratios, we may be forced to raise capital or sell assets.
An increasing number of banking institutions have received large fines for non-compliance with the BSA and its implementing regulations. Although we have developed policies and procedures designed to assist in compliance with these laws and regulations, no assurance can be given that these policies and procedures will be effective in preventing violations of these laws and regulations.
An increasing number of banking institutions have received large fines for non-compliance with the BSA and its implementing regulations. Although we have developed policies and procedures designed to 32 assist in compliance with these laws and regulations, no assurance can be given that these policies and procedures will be effective in preventing violations of these laws and regulations.
In some cases, we could be required to apply a new or revised standard retroactively, resulting in the restatement of prior period financial statements. 31 Changes in U.S. trade policies, including the imposition of tariffs and retaliatory tariffs, may adversely impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.
In some cases, we could be required to apply a new or revised standard retroactively, resulting in the restatement of prior period financial statements. Changes in U.S. trade policies, including the imposition of tariffs and retaliatory tariffs, may adversely impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Many of these competitors have substantially greater resources and market presence or more advanced technology than Wintrust and, as a result of their size, may be able to offer a broader range of products and services, better pricing for those products and services, or newer technologies to deliver those products and services than we can.
Many of these competitors have substantially greater resources and market presence or more advanced technology than Wintrust and, as a result of their size, may be able to offer a broader range of products and services, 25 better pricing for those products and services, or newer technologies to deliver those products and services than we can.
Sustained higher interest rates and continued Federal Reserve asset reductions may adversely affect market stability, market liquidity, and our financial performance and condition. We cannot predict the nature or timing of future changes in monetary policies, or the precise effects that future changes in monetary policies may have on our activities and financial results.
Sustained higher interest rates and continued Federal Reserve asset reductions may adversely affect market stability, market liquidity, and 29 our financial performance and condition. We cannot predict the nature or timing of future changes in monetary policies, or the precise effects that future changes in monetary policies may have on our activities and financial results.
For example, our ability to conduct business may be adversely affected by any significant disruptions to us or to third parties with whom we interact or upon whom we rely. In addition, our ability to implement backup 38 systems and other safeguards with respect to third-party systems is more limited than with respect to our own systems.
For example, our ability to conduct business may be adversely affected by any significant disruptions to us or to third parties with whom we interact or upon whom we rely. In addition, our ability to implement backup systems and other safeguards with respect to third-party systems is more limited than with respect to our own systems.
Such tariffs, retaliatory tariffs or other trade restrictions on products and materials that our customers import or export could cause the prices of our customers’ products to increase, which could reduce demand for such products, or reduce our customers’ margins, and adversely impact their revenues, financial results and ability to service debt.
Such tariffs, retaliatory tariffs, sanctions or other trade restrictions on products and materials that our customers import or export could cause the prices of our customers’ products to increase, which could reduce demand for such products, or reduce our customers’ margins, and adversely impact their revenues, financial results and ability to service debt.
Many of our competitors, because of their larger size and available capital, have substantially greater resources to invest in technological improvements. We may not be able to effectively implement new technology-driven products and services or be successful in marketing these products and services to our customers.
Many of our competitors, because of their larger size and available capital, have substantially greater resources to invest in 28 technological improvements. We may not be able to effectively implement new technology-driven products and services or be successful in marketing these products and services to our customers.
The publication of our privacy policies and other documentation that provide promises and assurances about data privacy and cybersecurity can subject us to potential federal or state action if they are found to be deceptive, unfair, or misrepresentative of our actual practices.
The publication of our privacy policies and other documentation that provide promises and assurances about data privacy and cybersecurity can subject us to potential federal or state action if they are found to be deceptive, unfair, 30 or misrepresentative of our actual practices.
If the economy weakens for a prolonged period or experiences deterioration or if the industry or market in which the borrower operates weakens, our borrowers may experience depressed or dramatic and sudden decreases in revenues that could hinder their ability to repay their loans.
If the economy weakens for a prolonged period or experiences deterioration or if the industry or market in which the borrower operates weakens, our borrowers may experience depressed or dramatic and sudden decreases in revenues that could hinder their ability 34 to repay their loans.
In July 2021, President Biden issued an executive order on competition that requires the banking agencies to review the standards for bank mergers and the Department of Justice (“DOJ”) has announced that it is reviewing its bank merger guidelines.
In July 2021, President Biden issued an executive order on competition that requires the banking agencies to review the standards for bank mergers and the Department of Justice has announced that it is reviewing its bank merger guidelines.
Though we expect the Federal Reserve to 35 slow the rate of increases, we cannot predict the nature or timing of future changes in monetary policies or the precise effects that they may have on our activities and financial results.
Though we expect the Federal Reserve to slow the rate of increases, we cannot predict the nature or timing of future changes in monetary policies or the precise effects that they may have on our activities and financial results.
An act of war, terrorist activity, including acts of domestic terrorism, a major epidemic or pandemic, natural disaster, or the threat of such an event or other public health threat, could adversely affect our customers and our business.
An act of war, terrorist activity, including acts of domestic terrorism or violence, a major epidemic or pandemic, natural disaster, or the threat of such an event or other public health threat, could adversely affect our customers and our business.
If our analytical and forecasting models’ underlying assumptions are incorrect, improperly applied, or otherwise inadequate, we may suffer deleterious effects such as higher than expected loan losses, lower than expected net interest income, lower than expected liquidity, lower than expected capital or unanticipated charge-offs, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. 33 We are subject to environmental liability risk associated with lending activities.
If our analytical and forecasting models’ underlying assumptions are incorrect, improperly applied, or otherwise inadequate, we may suffer deleterious effects such as higher than expected loan losses, lower than expected net interest income, lower than expected liquidity, lower than expected capital or unanticipated charge-offs, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. 35 We are subject to environmental liability risk associated with lending activities.
For 39 example, cybersecurity risks may increase in the future as we continue to increase our mobile-payment and other internet-based product offerings and expand our internal usage of web-based products and applications.
For example, cybersecurity risks may increase in the future as we continue to increase our mobile-payment and other internet-based product offerings and expand our internal usage of web-based products and applications.
Our reputation could also be harmed by the failure or perceived failure of an affiliate or a vendor or other third party with which we do business, to comply with laws or regulations.
Our reputation could also be harmed by the failure or perceived failure of an affiliate or a vendor or other third party with which we do business, to comply with applicable laws or regulations.
FIFC Canada is not required to be licensed in most provinces of Canada, but there can be no assurance that future regulations which impact the business of FIFC Canada will not be enacted. 34 Additionally, to the extent that affiliates of insurance carriers, banks, and other lending institutions add greater service and flexibility to their financing practices in the future, our competitive position and results of operations could be adversely affected.
FIFC Canada is not required to be licensed in most provinces of Canada, but there can be no assurance that future regulations which impact the business of FIFC Canada will not be enacted. 36 Additionally, to the extent that affiliates of insurance carriers, banks, and other lending institutions add greater service and flexibility to their financing practices in the future, our competitive position and results of operations could be adversely affected.
As of December 31, 2022, approximately 96% of the Company's available-for-sale debt securities and equity securities with a readily determinable fair value were categorized in level 1 or 2 of the fair value hierarchy (meaning that their fair values were determined by unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets, quoted prices for similar assets or other observable inputs).
As of December 31, 2023, approximately 96% of the Company's available-for-sale debt securities and equity securities with a readily determinable fair value were categorized in level 1 or 2 of the fair value hierarchy (meaning that their fair values were determined by unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets, quoted prices for similar assets or other observable inputs).
While the Company is still much smaller in asset size than $100 billion, we cannot exclude the possibility that we may be subject to higher antitrust standards, enhanced scrutiny under the financial stability risk factor, or have a potential acquisition denied.
While the Company is still much smaller in asset size than $100 billion, we cannot exclude the possibility that we may be subject to higher antitrust standards, enhanced scrutiny under the financial stability risk factor, or have a potential acquisition challenged.
In the past, we have completed numerous acquisitions of banks, other financial service related companies and financial service related assets, including acquisitions of troubled financial institutions, as more fully described below. We expect to continue to make such acquisitions in the future.
In the past, we have completed numerous acquisitions of banks, other financial services related companies and financial services related assets, including acquisitions of troubled financial institutions, as more fully described below. We expect to continue to make such acquisitions in the future.
Deterioration in the real estate markets could lead to additional losses, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. As of both December 31, 2022 and 2021, approximately 34% and 34%, respectively, of our total loan portfolio was secured by real estate, the majority of which is commercial real estate.
Deterioration in the real estate markets could lead to additional losses, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. As of both December 31, 2023 and 2022, approximately 35% and 34%, respectively, of our total loan portfolio was secured by real estate, the majority of which is commercial real estate.
As a participating lender in the SBA Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”), the Company and its banks are subject to additional risks of litigation from the banks’ customers or other parties regarding the banks’ processing of loans for the PPP and risks that the SBA may not fund some or all PPP loan guaranties.
As a participating lender in the SBA Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”), the Company and its banks are subject to additional risks of litigation from the banks’ customers or other parties regarding the banks’ processing of loans for the PPP and risks that the SBA may invalidate some or all PPP loan guaranties.
Our net interest income is affected by the fact that assets and liabilities reprice at different times and by different amounts as interest rates change. Net interest income represents our largest component of net income, and was $1.5 billion and $1.1 billion for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
Our net interest income is affected by the fact that assets and liabilities reprice at different times and by different amounts as interest rates change. Net interest income represents our largest component of net income, and was $1.8 billion and $1.5 billion for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
Risks Related to Economic Conditions and Operating Environment • Includes risks related to climate change and related environmental sustainability matters, deterioration in economic conditions and economic declines in the Chicago metropolitan and southern Wisconsin market areas, since our business is concentrated in these regions, and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Risks Related to Economic Conditions and Operating Environment • Includes risks related to deterioration in economic conditions and economic declines in the Chicago metropolitan and southern Wisconsin market areas, since our business is concentrated in these regions, and climate change and related environmental sustainability matters.
With the relatively low interest rates that prevailed in recent years, we were able to augment the total return of our investment securities portfolio by selling call options on fixed-income securities that we own. We recorded fee income of approximately $14.1 million, $3.7 million and $2.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
With the relatively low interest rates that prevailed in recent years, we were able to augment the total return of our investment securities portfolio by selling call options on fixed-income securities that we own. We recorded fee income of approximately $21.9 million, $14.1 million and $3.7 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
Any economic deterioration from current levels or slowing of current economic activity could lead to an increase in loan charge-offs and negatively affect consumer confidence as well as the level of business activity. Net charge-offs totaled $20.3 million in 2022 from $21.5 million in 2021.
Any economic deterioration from current levels or slowing of current economic activity could lead to an increase in loan charge-offs and negatively affect consumer confidence as well as the level of business activity. Net charge-offs totaled $45.5 million in 2023 from $20.3 million in 2022.
From April 3, 2020 through the end of the program in the second quarter of 2021, we originated over 19,400 PPP loans with a carrying balance totaling approximately $4.8 billion. As of December 31, 2022, the carrying balance of such loans was reduced to approximately $28.9 million primarily resulting from forgiveness by the SBA.
From April 3, 2020 through the end of the program in the second quarter of 2021, we originated over 19,400 PPP loans with a carrying balance totaling approximately $4.8 billion. As of December 31, 2023, the carrying balance of such loans was reduced to approximately $11.5 million primarily resulting from forgiveness by the SBA.
Together, these loans represented 15% of our total loan portfolio as of such date.
Together, these loans represented 16% of our total loan portfolio as of such date.
As a result, shareholders who might desire to participate in such a transaction may not have an opportunity to do so. Such provisions will also render the removal of our current board of directors or management more difficult.
As a result, shareholders who might desire to participate in such a transaction may not have an opportunity to do so. Such provisions will also render the removal of our current board of directors or management more difficult. ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS None.
We are required by regulatory authorities to maintain adequate levels of capital to support our operations (see “ - Risks Related to Our Regulatory Environment - If we fail to meet our regulatory capital ratios, we may be forced to raise capital or sell assets”) and as we grow, internally and through acquisitions, the amount of capital required to support our operations grows as well.
We are required by regulatory authorities to maintain adequate levels of capital to support our operations (see the above risk factor “Legal and Regulatory Risks - If we fail to meet our regulatory capital ratios, we may be forced to raise capital or sell assets”) and as we grow, internally and through acquisitions, the amount of capital required to support our operations grows as well.
The USA PATRIOT Act and the BSA require financial institutions to develop programs to prevent financial institutions from being used for money laundering or the funding of terrorist activities. If such activities are detected, financial institutions are obligated to file suspicious activity reports with FinCEN.
The USA PATRIOT Act and the BSA require financial institutions to develop risk-based compliance programs designed to prevent financial institutions from being used for money laundering, the funding of terrorist activities or other illicit finance activities. If such activities are detected, financial institutions are obligated to file suspicious activity reports with FinCEN.
As of December 31, 2022, we have been rated by Fitch Ratings as "BBB+" and DBRS as "A (low)". A credit rating is not a recommendation to buy, sell or hold securities and may be subject to revision or withdrawal at any time by the assigning rating organization.
If our credit rating is lowered, our financing costs could increase. As of December 31, 2023, we have been rated by Fitch Ratings as "BBB+" and DBRS as "A (low)". A credit rating is not a recommendation to buy, sell or hold securities and may be subject to revision or withdrawal at any time by the assigning rating organization.
As a result, risk management and general supervisory oversight may be difficult. As of December 31, 2022, we had $5.8 billion of property and casualty insurance premium finance loans outstanding, of which $5.1 billion related to the Company's U.S. operations at FIRST Insurance Funding and $745.6 million related to the Company's Canadian operations at FIFC Canada.
As a result, risk management and general supervisory oversight may be difficult. As of December 31, 2023, we had $6.9 billion of property and casualty insurance premium finance loans outstanding, of which $6.0 billion related to the Company's U.S. operations at FIRST Insurance Funding and $920.4 million related to the Company's Canadian operations at FIFC Canada.
If customers reduce their deposits with us or select other service providers for all or a portion of the services that we provide them, net interest income and fee revenues will decrease accordingly, and could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations. If our credit rating is lowered, our financing costs could increase.
If customers reduce their deposits with us or select other service providers for all or a portion of the services that we provide them, net interest income and fee revenues will decrease accordingly, and could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations. Loss of deposits or a change in the deposit mix could increase our funding costs.
The loss of these revenue streams and the lower cost deposits as a source of funds could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. We may be adversely impacted by the soundness of other financial institutions. Financial services institutions are interrelated as a result of trading, clearing, counterparty or other relationships.
The loss of these revenue streams and the lower cost deposits as a source of funds could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. We may be adversely impacted by the soundness of other financial institutions.
Many of these changes have occurred as a result of the Dodd-Frank Act and its implementing regulations, most of which are now in place. We expect that our business will remain subject to extensive regulation and supervision.
Many of these changes have occurred as a result of the Dodd-Frank Act and its implementing regulations, most of which are now in place. We expect that our business will remain subject to extensive regulation and supervision. In addition, we expect that the Biden Administration will continue to seek to implement a regulatory reform agenda.
From time to time, the FASB and the SEC change the financial accounting and reporting standards that govern the preparation of our financial statements. These changes, such as the CECL standard adopted on January 1, 2020, can be hard to predict and could materially impact how we record and report our financial condition and results of operations.
From time to time, the FASB and the SEC change the financial accounting and reporting standards that govern the preparation of our financial statements. These changes can be hard to predict and could materially impact how we record and report our financial condition and results of operations.
The PPP program expired on May 31, 2021. 32 Any financial liability, litigation costs or reputational damage caused by PPP related litigation could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Any financial liability, litigation costs or reputational damage caused by PPP related litigation could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Our premium finance receivables balances finance insurance policies that are spread among a large number of insurers, however, the top three insurers represent approximately 13%, 7% and 6% of such balances. FIRST Insurance Funding, Wintrust Life Finance and FIFC Canada consistently monitor carrier ratings and financial performance of our carriers.
Our premium finance receivables balances finance insurance policies that are spread among a large number of insurers; however, one of the insurers represents approximately 11% of such balances and two additional insurers represent approximately 6% each of such balances. FIRST Insurance Funding, Wintrust Life Finance and FIFC Canada consistently monitor carrier ratings and financial performance of our carriers.
Deterioration in the economy and real estate markets, higher inflation, rising interest rates or increased unemployment rates, particularly in the markets in which we operate, will likely diminish the ability of our borrowers to repay loans that we have made to them, decrease the value of any collateral securing such loans and may cause increases in delinquencies, problem assets, charge-offs and provision for credit losses, all of which could materially adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations. 23 Further, the underwriting and credit monitoring policies and procedures that we have adopted may not prevent losses that could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Deterioration in the economy and real estate markets, higher inflation, rising interest rates or increased unemployment rates, particularly in the markets in which we operate, will likely diminish the ability of our borrowers to repay loans that we have made to them, decrease the value of any collateral securing such loans and may cause increases in delinquencies, problem assets, charge-offs and provision for credit losses, all of which could materially adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.
Our balance of non-performing loans and other real estate owned (“OREO”) was $100.7 million and $9.9 million, respectively, at December 31, 2022 compared to $74.4 million and $4.3 million, respectively, at December 31, 2021.
Our balance of non-performing loans and other real estate owned (“OREO”) was $139.0 million and $13.3 million, respectively, at December 31, 2023 compared to $100.7 million and $9.9 million, respectively, at December 31, 2022.
For more information regarding the most recent increase to the banks’ deposit insurance premiums, see “Insurance of Deposit Accounts” under Supervision and Regulation in Item 1. 30 Non-compliance with the USA PATRIOT Act, BSA or other laws and regulations could result in fines or sanctions.
Either of these events could negatively impact our financial condition and results of operations. For more information regarding the most recent increase to the banks’ deposit insurance premiums, see “Insurance of Deposit Accounts” under Supervision and Regulation in Item 1. Non-compliance with the USA PATRIOT Act, BSA or other laws and regulations could result in fines or sanctions.
Risks Related to Lending Operations • Includes risks related to our allowance for credit losses and sufficiency to absorb losses that may occur in our loan portfolio, litigation from the banks’ customers or other parties regarding the banks’ processing of loans for the SBA Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) and that the SBA may not fund some or all PPP loan guaranties, the repayment of commercial loans which are largely dependent upon the financial success and economic viability of the borrower, our loan portfolio being secured by real estate, in particular commercial real estate, events impacting collateral consisting of real property, any inaccurate assumptions in our analytical and forecasting models and environmental liability risk associated with lending activities. 22 Risks Related to Our Niche Businesses • Includes risks related to our premium finance business, which may involve a higher risk of delinquency or collection than our other lending operations, widespread financial difficulties or credit downgrades among commercial and life insurance providers and exposure to certain risks associated with the securities industry.
Risks Related to Lending Operations • Includes risks related to our allowance for credit losses and sufficiency to absorb losses that may occur in our loan portfolio, litigation from the banks’ customers or other parties regarding the banks’ processing of loans for the SBA Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) and that the SBA may invalidate some or all PPP loan guaranties, the repayment of commercial loans which are largely dependent upon the financial success and economic viability of the borrower, our loan portfolio being secured by real estate, in particular commercial real estate, events impacting collateral consisting of real property, any inaccurate assumptions in our analytical and forecasting models and environmental liability risk associated with lending activities.
Changes in federal and state tax laws and changes in interpretation of existing laws can impact our financial results. The federal government enacted the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the “Tax Act”) on December 22, 2017, and given the changing economic and political environment and ongoing budgetary pressures, the enactment of further new federal or state tax legislation may occur.
Changes in federal and state tax laws and changes in interpretation of existing laws can impact our financial results. Given the changing economic and political environment and ongoing budgetary pressures, the enactment of further new federal or state tax legislation may occur.
In 2022, we charged off $20.3 million in loans (net of recoveries) and increased our allowance for credit losses from $299.7 million at December 31, 2021 to $357.9 million at December 31, 2022. Our allowance for loan and unfunded lending-related commitment losses represented 0.91% and 0.86% of total loans outstanding at December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
In 2023, we charged off $45.5 million in loans (net of recoveries) and increased our allowance for credit losses from $357.9 million at December 31, 2022 to $427.6 million at December 31, 2023. Our allowance for loan and unfunded lending-related commitment losses represented 1.01% and 0.91% of total loans outstanding at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
We have exposure to many different industries and counterparties and routinely execute transactions with counterparties in the financial services industry, including the Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”), commercial banks, brokers and dealers, investment banks and other institutional clients.
Financial services institutions are interrelated as a result of trading, clearing, counterparty or other relationships. We have exposure to many different industries and counterparties and routinely execute transactions with counterparties in the financial services industry, including the Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”), commercial banks, brokers and dealers, investment banks and other institutional clients.
Although the U.S. and global economies have begun to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, as many health and safety restrictions have been lifted and vaccine distribution has increased, certain adverse consequences of the pandemic, including labor shortages, disruptions of global supply chains and inflationary pressures, continue to impact the macroeconomic environment and could adversely affect our business.
Although the U.S. and global economies continue to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, certain adverse consequences of the pandemic, including labor shortages, disruptions of global supply chains and inflationary pressures, could continue to impact the macroeconomic environment and could adversely affect our business.
The Company's available-for-sale debt and trading securities as well as certain equity securities are carried at fair value. Accounting standards require the Company to categorize these securities according to a fair value hierarchy.
Disruption in the financial markets could result in lower fair values for our investment securities portfolio. The Company's available-for-sale debt and trading securities as well as certain equity securities are carried at fair value. Accounting standards require the Company to categorize these securities according to a fair value hierarchy.
We may not be insured against all types of losses as a result of disruptions to or failures of our operational and security systems, networks and infrastructure or those of third parties, and our insurance coverage may not be available on reasonable terms, or at all, or may be inadequate to cover all losses resulting from such disruptions or failures.
Implementation and testing of controls related to our computer systems and networks, security monitoring and retaining and training personnel required to operate our systems also entail significant costs. 40 We may not be insured against all types of losses as a result of disruptions to or failures of our operational and security systems, networks and infrastructure or those of third parties, and our insurance coverage may not be available on reasonable terms, or at all, or may be inadequate to cover all losses resulting from such disruptions or failures.
It remains unclear what the U.S. government or foreign governments will or will not do with respect to tariffs already imposed, additional tariffs that may be imposed, or international trade agreements and policies. It is also unclear what changes, if any, to U.S. trade policy will be made by the Biden Administration and Congress.
It remains unclear what the U.S. government or foreign governments will or will 33 not do with respect to tariffs already imposed, additional tariffs that may be imposed, or international trade agreements and policies.
Management regularly reviews and updates our internal controls over financial reporting, disclosure controls and procedures and corporate governance policies and procedures. Any system of controls, however well-designed and operated, is based in part on certain assumptions and can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurances that the objectives of the system are met.
Any system of controls, however well-designed and operated, is based in part on certain assumptions and can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurances that the objectives of the system are met.
We also face indirect technology, cybersecurity and operational risks relating to the customers, clients and other third parties with whom we do business or upon whom we rely to facilitate or enable our business activities, including, for example, financial counterparties, regulators and providers of critical infrastructure such as internet access and electrical power.
Due to applicable laws and regulations or contractual obligations, we may be held responsible for cyber-attacks, information security breaches or other similar incidents attributed to our service providers as they relate to the information we share with them. 41 We also face indirect technology, cybersecurity and operational risks relating to the customers, clients and other third parties with whom we do business or upon whom we rely to facilitate or enable our business activities, including, for example, financial counterparties, regulators and providers of critical infrastructure such as internet access and electrical power.
Increases to our reserves and losses incurred by us in connection with actual loan repurchases and indemnification payments in excess of our reserves could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. 41 Our business could be adversely affected by the occurrence of extraordinary events, such as acts of war, terrorist attacks, natural disasters and public health threats.
Increases to our reserves and losses incurred by us in connection with actual loan repurchases and indemnification payments in excess of our reserves could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
There can be no assurance that decline in market value of available-for-sale debt securities and equity securities with a readily determinable fair value associated with these disruptions will not result in credit or permanent impairments, and unrealized losses, respectively, of these assets, which would lead to accounting charges which could have a material negative effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Consequently, the ultimate sales price for any of these securities could vary significantly from the recorded fair value at December 31, 2023, especially if the security is sold during a period of illiquidity or market disruption or as part of a large block of securities under a forced transaction. 39 There can be no assurance that decline in market value of available-for-sale debt securities and equity securities with a readily determinable fair value associated with these disruptions will not result in credit or permanent impairments, and unrealized losses, respectively, of these assets, which would lead to accounting charges which could have a material negative effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
The Federal Reserve raised interest rates significantly and began shrinking its assets during 2022 in response to persistently high inflation measures that were well above the Federal Reserve’s two percent target. The Federal Reserve has signaled that it will likely further increase interest rates in the near term.
The Federal Reserve raised interest rates significantly and continued to shrink its assets during 2023 in response to persistently high inflation measures that were well above the Federal Reserve’s two percent target.
Some of these impacts might occur even in the absence of an actual default by or rating downgrade of the U.S. government but as a consequence of the uncertainty caused by extended political negotiations around the threat of such a default or rating downgrade and a U.S. government shutdown.
Some of these impacts might occur even in the absence of an actual default by or rating downgrade of the U.S. government but as a consequence of the uncertainty caused by extended political negotiations around the threat of such a default or rating downgrade and a U.S. government shutdown. 24 Since our business is concentrated in the Chicago metropolitan and southern Wisconsin market areas, economic declines in the economy of this region could adversely affect our business.
The commercial and residential real estate markets continue to experience a variety of difficulties, including the Chicago metropolitan area and southern Wisconsin, in which a majority of our real estate loans are concentrated.
The commercial and residential real estate markets continue to experience a variety of difficulties, including the Chicago metropolitan area and southern Wisconsin, in which a majority of our real estate loans are concentrated. Continued uncertainty in economic conditions may impair a borrower’s business operations, slow the execution of new leases and lead to existing lease turnover.
Federal, state and local consumer lending laws may restrict our ability to originate certain mortgage loans or increase our risk of liability with respect to such loans and could increase our cost of doing business.
Should these or other agencies have serious concerns with respect to our operations in this regard, the effect of such concerns could have a material adverse effect on our profits. 31 Federal, state and local consumer lending laws may restrict our ability to originate certain mortgage loans or increase our risk of liability with respect to such loans and could increase our cost of doing business.
These developments also caused our FDIC insurance premiums to increase. There is a risk that the banks’ deposit insurance premiums will increase in the future if failures of insured depository institutions once again deplete the DIF. Any such increase may negatively impact our financial condition and results of operations.
There is a risk that the banks’ deposit insurance premiums will increase in the future if failures of insured depository institutions once again deplete the DIF.
Unlike larger national or other regional banks that are more geographically diversified, we provide banking and financial services to customers primarily in the Chicago metropolitan and southern Wisconsin market areas.
Except for our premium finance business and certain other niche businesses, our success depends primarily on the general economic conditions of the specific local markets in which we operate. Unlike larger national or other regional banks that are more geographically diversified, we provide banking and financial services to customers primarily in the Chicago metropolitan and southern Wisconsin market areas.
Additionally, increases in interest rates may adversely influence the growth rate of loans and deposits, the quality of our loan portfolio, loan and deposit pricing, the volume of loan originations in our mortgage banking business and the value that we can recognize on the sale of mortgage loans in the secondary market.
Additionally, increases in interest rates may adversely influence the growth rate of loans and deposits, the quality of our loan portfolio, loan and deposit pricing, the volume of loan originations in our mortgage banking business and the value that we can recognize on the sale of mortgage loans in the secondary market. 37 In response to inflationary forces in 2023, the Federal Reserve raised its target for the federal funds rate several times, beginning from a range of 4.25-4.50% and ending at a range of 5.25-5.5% at year end.
Consumer protection is an area of significantly heightened regulatory focus, and the CFPB has promulgated a number of specific regulatory requirements and regulatory guidance in this area.
Consumer protection is an area of significantly heightened regulatory focus, and the CFPB has promulgated a number of specific regulatory requirements and regulatory guidance in this area. These actions have increased and may further increase the costs of doing business for all market participants, including our subsidiaries.
In addition, increased focus on environmental, social and governance (“ESG”) issues, including without limitation the impact of climate change, could damage our reputation or prospects if customers, prospective customers, investors or third parties assigning ESG ratings to the Company are of the opinion that the Company’s practices, including without limitation our lending practices, are not sufficiently robust from an ESG perspective. 25 Should any of these or other events or factors that can undermine our reputation occur, there is no assurance that the additional costs and expenses that we may need to incur to address the issues giving rise to the damage to our reputation would not adversely affect our earnings and results of operations, or that damage to our reputation will not impair our ability to retain our existing customers and employees or attract new customers and employees.
Should any of these or other events or factors that can undermine our reputation occur, there is no assurance that the additional costs and expenses that we may need to incur to address the issues giving rise to the damage to our reputation would not adversely affect our earnings and results of operations, or that damage to our reputation will not impair our ability to retain our 26 existing customers and employees or attract new customers and employees.
These rules have impacted, and will continue to impact, the business practices of mortgage lenders, including the Company. For example, in order to ensure compliance with mortgage-related rules issued by the CFPB, the Company consolidated its consumer mortgage loan origination and loan servicing operations within Wintrust Mortgage.
For example, in order to ensure compliance with mortgage-related rules issued by the CFPB, the Company consolidated its consumer mortgage loan origination and loan servicing operations within Wintrust Mortgage. The CFPB and federal and state banking agencies also closely examine the mortgage and mortgage servicing activities of depository financial institutions.
Additionally, financial markets may be adversely affected by the current or anticipated impact of military conflict, including the war in Ukraine, terrorism or other geopolitical events . The occurrence or threat of any such extraordinary event could result in a material negative effect on our business and results of operations.
Additionally, financial markets may be adversely affected by the current or anticipated impact of military conflict, including the war in Ukraine, the conflict between Israel and Hamas, terrorism or other geopolitical events .
This updating entails significant costs and creates risks associated with implementing new systems and networks and integrating them with existing ones, including business interruptions. Implementation and testing of controls related to our computer systems and networks, security monitoring and retaining and training personnel required to operate our systems also entail significant costs.
This updating entails significant costs and creates risks associated with implementing new systems and networks and integrating them with existing ones, including business interruptions.
It is expected that these reviews will tighten the standards for bank mergers and may change how the financial stability factor is evaluated. In addition, some members of Congress have called for a moratorium of any bank merger and acquisition of greater than $100 billion in assets.
It is expected that these reviews will tighten the standards for bank mergers and may change how the financial stability factor is evaluated.
Commercial loans are secured by different types of collateral related to the underlying business, such as accounts receivable, inventory and equipment.
Our commercial loan portfolio totaled $12.8 billion or 30% of our total loan portfolio, at December 31, 2023, compared to $12.5 billion, or 32% of our total loan portfolio, at December 31, 2022. Commercial loans are secured by different types of collateral related to the underlying business, such as accounts receivable, inventory and equipment.
If we cannot raise additional capital when needed, or on terms acceptable to us, our ability to further expand our operations through internal growth and acquisitions could be materially impaired and our financial condition and liquidity could be materially and negatively affected. Disruption in the financial markets could result in lower fair values for our investment securities portfolio.
Any diminished ability to access short-term funding or capital markets to raise additional capital, if needed, could subject us to liability, and our ability to further expand our operations through internal growth and acquisitions could be materially impaired and our financial condition and liquidity could be materially and negatively affected.
The Economic Growth Act could result in increased competition for merger or acquisition partners, potentially resulting in higher acquisition prices or an inability to complete desired acquisitions. In addition, the standards by which bank and financial institution acquisitions will be evaluated are currently in flux and some banking organizations are experiencing delays in the processing of applications.
The standards by which bank and financial institution acquisitions will be evaluated are currently in flux and some banking organizations are experiencing delays in the processing of applications.
These actions have increased and may further increase the costs of doing business for all market participants, including our subsidiaries. 29 In particular, the mortgage-related rules issued by the CFPB have materially restructured the origination, servicing and securitization of residential mortgages in the United States.
In particular, the mortgage-related rules issued by the CFPB have materially restructured the origination, servicing and securitization of residential mortgages in the United States. These rules have impacted, and will continue to impact, the business practices of mortgage lenders, including the Company.
The effects of the pandemic and measures taken in response may subject us to increased risk of litigation and governmental and regulatory scrutiny. 24 Risks Related to Competition and Reputation The financial services industry is very competitive, and if we are not able to compete effectively, we may lose market share and our business could suffer.
Risks Related to Competition and Reputation The financial services industry is very competitive, and if we are not able to compete effectively, we may lose market share and our business could suffer. We face competition in attracting and retaining deposits, making loans, and providing other financial services (including wealth management services) throughout our market area.
Any such losses could have material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Risks Related to Growth and Acquisitions If we are unable to continue to identify favorable acquisitions or successfully integrate our acquisitions, our growth may be limited and our results of operations could suffer.
Any such losses could have material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
In addition, mergers and acquisitions could be dampened by increased antitrust scrutiny. We also expect reform proposals for the short-term wholesale markets.
In addition, mergers and acquisitions could be dampened by increased antitrust scrutiny. We also expect reform proposals for the short-term wholesale markets. At this time, we are unable to assess which, or to what extent, these policies will continue to be implemented and what their impact on the Company's business, financial condition or results of operations would be.