COMMERCE BANCSHARES INC MO

Previous wording

The Company operates as a super-community bank and offers a broad range of financial products to consumer and commercial customers, delivered with a focus on high-quality, personalized service. The Company is headquartered in Missouri, with its principal offices in Kansas City and St. Louis, Missouri. Customers are served from 257 locations in Missouri, Kansas, Illinois, Oklahoma and Colorado and commercial offices throughout the nation's midsection. A variety of delivery platforms are utilized, including an extensive network of branches and ATM machines, full-featured online banking, a mobile application, and a centralized contact center.

Current wording

The Company operates as a super-community bank and offers a broad range of financial products to consumer, municipal, and commercial customers, delivered with a focus on high-quality, personalized service. The Company is headquartered in Missouri, with its principal offices in Kansas City and St. Louis, Missouri. Customers are served from 243 locations in Missouri, Kansas, Illinois, Oklahoma and Colorado and commercial offices throughout the nation's midsection. A variety of delivery platforms are utilized, including an extensive network of branches and ATM machines, full-featured online banking, a mobile application, and a centralized contact center.

Previous wording

• Net income and earnings per share — Net income attributable to Commerce Bancshares, Inc. was $477.1 million, a decrease of 2.3% compared to the previous year. The return on average assets was 1.49% in 2023, and the return on average common equity was 17.94%. Diluted earnings per share decreased .8% in 2023 compared to 2022.

Current wording

• Net income and earnings per share — Net income attributable to Commerce Bancshares, Inc. during 2024 was $526.3 million, an increase of 10.3% compared to the previous year. The return on average assets was 1.72% in 2024, and the return on average common equity was 16.66%. Diluted earnings per share increased 11.8% in 2024 compared to 2023.

Previous wording

• Total revenue — Total revenue is comprised of net interest income and non-interest income. Total revenue in 2023 increased $82.5 million, or 5.5%, from 2022, as net interest income grew $55.9 million, and non-interest income increased $26.5 million. Growth in net interest income resulted principally from increases in interest income from loans, partly offset by an increase in interest expense on deposits and borrowings. The increase in non-interest income in 2023 was mainly due to higher bankcard transaction fees and trust fees.

Current wording

• Total revenue — Total revenue is comprised of net interest income and non-interest income. Total revenue in 2024 increased $84.6 million, or 5.4%, from 2023, as net interest income grew $42.1 million, and non-interest income increased $42.5 million. Growth in net interest income resulted principally from increases in interest income from loans, partly offset by an increase in interest expense on deposits. The increase in non-interest income in 2024 was mainly due to higher trust fees, supplemented by higher deposit account fees and capital market fees.

Previous wording

• Non-interest expense — Total non-interest expense increased 9.7% this year compared to 2022, mainly due to higher salaries and employee benefits expense and higher deposit insurance expense due to a special FDIC assessment accrued in 2023.

Current wording

• Non-interest expense — Total non-interest expense increased 2.2% this year compared to 2023, mainly due to higher salaries and employee benefits expense, partially offset by lower deposit insurance expense due to a special FDIC assessment accrued in 2023.

Previous wording

• Asset quality — Net loan charge-offs totaled $31.1 million in 2023, an increase of $12.0 million from those recorded in 2022, and averaged .19% of loans in 2023, as compared to .12% of loans in 2022. Total non-performing assets, which include non-accrual loans and foreclosed real estate, amounted to $7.6 million at December 31, 2023, compared to $8.4 million at December 31, 2022, and represented .04% of loans outstanding at December 31, 2023.

Current wording

• Asset quality — Net loan charge-offs totaled $38.9 million in 2024, an increase of $7.8 million from those recorded in 2023, and averaged .23% of loans in 2024, as compared to .19% of loans in 2023. Total non-performing assets, which include non-accrual loans and foreclosed real estate, amounted to $18.6 million at December 31, 2024, compared to $7.6 million at December 31, 2023, and represented .11% of loans outstanding at December 31, 2024.

Previous wording

• Shareholder return — During 2023, the Company paid cash dividends of $1.03 per share on its common stock, representing an increase of 7.1% over the previous year. In 2023, the Company issued its 30th consecutive annual 5% common stock dividend, and in February 2024, the Company's Board of Directors authorized an increase of 5.1% in the common cash dividend. The Company purchased 1,354,811 shares in 2023. Total shareholder return, including the change in stock price and dividend reinvestment, was 5.7%, 8.7%, and 8.7% over the past 5, 10, and 15 years, respectively.

Current wording

• Shareholder return — During 2024, the Company paid cash dividends of $1.03 per share on its common stock, representing an increase of 5.0% over the previous year. In 2024, the Company issued its 31st consecutive annual 5% common stock dividend, and in February 2025, the Company's Board of Directors authorized an increase of 7.0% in the common cash dividend. The Company purchased 2,875,349 shares in 2024. Total shareholder return, including the change in stock price and dividend reinvestment, was 5.1%, 10.8%, and 10.7% over the past 5, 10, and 15 years, respectively.

Previous wording

During 2022, net interest income grew mainly due to increases of $77.6 million in interest income earned on investment securities, due to higher average rates earned and higher average balances, and $75.5 million in interest income earned on loans, mainly due to higher average rates earned, partly offset by an increase in interest expense on deposits and borrowings of $43.9 million, due to higher average rates paid. Total rates earned on average interest earning assets increased 41 basis points in 2022, while funding costs for deposits and borrowings increased 23 basis points. The provision for credit losses increased in 2022 compared to 2021 due to a significant reduction in the allowance for credit losses on loans during 2021, which did not reoccur in 2022. In addition, there was an increase in the liability for unfunded lending commitments during 2022, compared to a decrease in 2021. Net loan charge-offs increased $496 thousand, mainly due to business loan net charge-offs in 2022, compared to net loan recoveries recorded in 2021, partly offset by lower credit card loan net charge-offs in 2022.

Current wording

During 2024, net interest income grew mainly due to an increase of $78.4 million in interest income earned on loans, mainly due to higher average rates, and a decrease of $43.9 million in interest expense on borrowings, mainly due to lower average balances, partly offset by an increase in interest expense on deposits of $90.0 million, mainly due to higher average rates paid. Total rates earned on average interest earning assets increased 52 basis points this year, while funding costs increased 52 basis points for deposits and decreased 28 basis points for borrowings. The provision for credit losses increased mainly due to higher net loan charge-offs and an increase in the estimate of the allowance for credit losses on loans this year compared to last year. These increases were partly offset by a decrease in the liability for unfunded lending commitments. Net loan charge-offs increased $7.8 million, mainly due to higher credit card and consumer loan net charge-offs in 2024, partly offset by a decrease in business loan net charge-offs.

Previous wording

Non-interest income fell 2.5% in 2022, mainly due to a decrease in loan fees and sales income. Net investment securities gains of $20.5 million were recorded in 2022 and were comprised mainly of net fair value gains on the Company's private equity investment portfolio, partly offset by losses on sales of available for sale securities. Non-interest expense increased $42.9 million in 2022 compared to 2021, mainly due to higher salaries and benefits expense and data processing and software expense.

Current wording

Non-interest income grew 7.4% in 2024, mainly due to increases in trust fees and deposit account fees. Net investment securities gains of $7.8 million were recorded in 2024 and were comprised mainly of gains on the sales of equity securities, partly offset by losses on sales of available for sale debt securities. Non-interest expense increased $20.2 million in 2024 compared to 2023, mainly due to higher salaries and benefits expense and data processing and software expense, partly offset by a decrease in deposit insurance expense.

Previous wording

Net income attributable to Commerce Bancshares, Inc. (net income) for 2023 was $477.1 million, a decrease of $11.3 million, or 2.3%, compared to $488.4 million in 2022. Diluted income per common share was $3.64 in 2023, compared to $3.67 in 2022. The decrease in net income resulted mainly from an increase of $82.2 million in non-interest expense, partly offset by increases in net interest income of $55.9 million and non-interest income of $26.5 million. The return on average assets was 1.49% in 2023 compared to 1.45% in 2022, and the return on average common equity was 17.94% in 2023 compared to 17.31% in 2022. At December 31, 2023, the ratio of tangible common equity to tangible assets increased to 8.85%, compared to 7.32% at year end 2022.

Current wording

Net income for 2023 was $477.1 million, a decrease of $11.3 million, or 2.3%, compared to $488.4 million in 2022. Diluted income per common share was $3.46 in 2023, compared to $3.50 in 2022. The decrease in net income resulted mainly from an increase of $82.2 million in non-interest expense, partly offset by increases in net interest income of $55.9 million and non-interest income of $26.5 million. The return on average assets was 1.49% in 2023 compared to 1.45% in 2022, and the return on average common equity was 17.94% in 2023 compared to 17.31% in 2022. At December 31, 2023, the ratio of tangible common equity to tangible assets increased to 8.85%, compared to 7.32% at year end 2022.

Previous wording

During 2023, net interest income grew mainly due to increases of $338.1 million in interest income earned on loans and $88.2 million in interest income earned on deposits with banks, mainly due to higher average rates, partly offset by increases in interest expense on deposits and borrowings of $215.7 million and $110.2 million, respectively, mainly due to higher average rates paid. Total rates earned on average interest earning assets increased 134 basis points this year, while funding costs for deposits and borrowings increased 156 basis points. The provision for credit losses increased mainly due to higher net loan charge-offs and an increase in the estimate of the allowance for credit losses this year compared to last year. Net loan charge-offs increased $12.0 million, mainly due to higher credit card, consumer and business loan net charge-offs in 2023.

Current wording

During 2023, net interest income grew mainly due to increases of $338.1 million in interest income earned on loans and $88.2 million in interest income earned on deposits with banks, mainly due to higher average rates, partly offset by increases in interest expense on deposits and borrowings of $215.7 million and $110.2 million, respectively, mainly due to higher average rates paid. Total rates earned on average interest earning assets increased 134 basis points in 2023, while funding costs for deposits and borrowings increased 156 basis points. The provision for credit losses increased mainly due to higher net loan charge-offs and an increase in the estimate of the allowance for credit losses in 2023 compared to 2022. Net loan charge-offs increased $12.0 million, mainly due to higher credit card, consumer and business loan net charge-offs in 2023.

Previous wording

The Company distributed a 5% stock dividend for the 30th consecutive year on December 19, 2023. All per share and average share data in this report has been restated for the 2023 stock dividend.

Current wording

The Company distributed a 5% stock dividend for the 31st consecutive year on December 18, 2024. All per share and average share data in this report has been restated for the 2024 stock dividend.

Previous wording

Assumptions, Judgments, and Uncertainties: The Company’s model for establishing its allowance for credit losses uses cash flows projected to be received over the estimated life of the securities, discounted to present value, and compared to the current amortized cost bases of the securities. Securities for which fair value is less than amortized cost are reviewed for impairment. Special emphasis is placed on securities whose credit rating has fallen below Baa3 (Moody's) or BBB- (Standard & Poor's), whose fair values have fallen more than 20% below purchase price, or those which have been identified based on management’s judgment. These securities are placed on a watch list and cash flow analyses are prepared on an individual security basis. Certain securities are analyzed using a projected cash flow model, discounted to present value, and compared to the current amortized cost bases of the securities. The model uses input factors such as cash flow projections, contractual payments required, expected delinquency rates, credit support from other tranches, prepayment speeds, collateral loss severity rates (including loan to values), and various other information related to the underlying collateral. Securities not analyzed using the cash flow model are analyzed by reviewing risk ratings, credit support agreements, and industry knowledge to project future cash flows and any possible credit impairment.

Current wording

Assumptions, Judgments, and Uncertainties: Securities for which fair value is less than amortized cost are reviewed for impairment. Special emphasis is placed on securities whose credit rating has fallen below Baa3 (Moody's) or BBB- (Standard & Poor's), whose fair values have fallen more than 20% below purchase price, or those which have been identified based on management’s judgment. These securities are placed on a watch list and cash flow analyses are prepared on an individual security basis. Certain securities are analyzed using a projected cash flow model, discounted to present value, and compared to the current amortized cost bases of the securities. The model uses input factors such as cash flow projections, contractual payments required, expected delinquency rates, credit support from other tranches, prepayment speeds, collateral loss severity rates (including loan to values), and various other information related to the underlying collateral. Securities not analyzed using the cash flow model are analyzed by reviewing risk ratings, credit support agreements, and industry knowledge to project future cash flows and any possible credit impairment.

Previous wording

At December 31, 2023, assets and liabilities measured using observable inputs that are classified as either Level 1 or Level 2 represented 98.2% and 99.6% of total assets and liabilities recorded at fair value, respectively. Valuations generated from model-based techniques that use at least one significant assumption not observable in the market are considered Level 3, and the Company's Level 3 assets totaled $177.8 million, or 1.8% of total assets recorded at fair value on a recurring basis. The fair value hierarchy, the extent to which fair value is used to measure assets and liabilities, and the valuation methodologies and key inputs used are discussed in Note 17 on Fair Value Measurements.

Current wording

At December 31, 2024, assets and liabilities measured using observable inputs that are classified as either Level 1 or Level 2 represented 98.1% and 99.9% of total assets and liabilities recorded at fair value, respectively. Valuations generated from model-based techniques that use at least one significant assumption not observable in the market are considered Level 3, and the Company's Level 3 assets totaled $185.4 million, or 2.0% of total assets recorded at fair value on a recurring basis. The fair value hierarchy, the extent to which fair value is used to measure assets and liabilities, and the valuation methodologies and key inputs used are discussed in Note 17 on Fair Value Measurements.

Previous wording

Net interest income totaled $942.2 million in 2022, increasing $106.8 million, or 12.8%, compared to $835.4 million in 2021. On an FTE basis, net interest income totaled $951.8 million, and increased $104.7 million over 2021. This growth was mainly due to an increase of $75.7 million in interest earned on loans, due to higher average rates earned and an increase of $76.9 million in interest earned on investment securities, due to higher rates and average balances, partly offset by an increase of $45.3 million in interest expense on deposits and borrowings, due to higher average rates paid. The net yield on earning assets (FTE) was 2.85% in 2022 compared with 2.58% in 2021.

Current wording

Net interest income totaled $1.0 billion in 2024, increasing $42.1 million, or 4.2%, compared to $998.1 million in 2023. On a fully taxable-equivalent (FTE) basis, net interest income totaled $1.0 billion, and increased $42.8 million over 2023. This growth was due to increases of $79.6 million in interest earned on loans (FTE), due to higher average rates and balances, and $18.2 million in interest earned on balances at the Federal Reserve, due to higher average balances, and a decrease of $44.8 million in interest expense on borrowings, mainly due to lower average balances. These increases to income were partly offset by an increase of $90.0 million in interest expense on deposits, mainly due to higher average rates paid, and lower interest earned on investment securities of $8.5 million, due to lower average balances, partly offset by higher average rates. The net yield on earning assets (FTE) was 3.47% in 2024 compared with 3.16% in 2023. The fully taxable-equivalent basis uses a federal income tax rate of 21%.

Previous wording

During 2022, loan interest income (FTE) grew $75.7 million over 2021 mainly due to an increase in rates earned for all loan categories. The average fully taxable-equivalent rate earned on the loan portfolio increased 51 basis points to 4.18% in 2022 compared to 3.67% in 2021. The higher rates earned on the loan portfolio were mostly related to actions taken by the Federal Reserve in 2022 to raise short-term interest rates, which caused most of the Company's variable rate loan portfolio to re-price higher. Additionally, fixed rate loans were generally originated in 2022 at higher interest rates than the weighted-average of the portfolio of fixed rate loans. The increase in interest rates earned was partly offset a decline in average loan balances of $102.4 million, or .7%, in 2022. Increased interest earned on business real estate and construction and land loans was the main driver of overall higher interest income. Business real estate loan interest grew $29.6 million in 2022 compared to 2021 as a result of an increase of 71 basis points in the average rate earned and higher average balances of $199.1 million, or 6.6%. Interest earned on construction and land loans increased $21.2 million due to an increase of 147 basis points in the average rate earned and growth of $85.2 million, or 7.4%, in average balances. Business loan interest income increased $11.3 million mainly due to a 49 basis point increase in the average rate earned, partly offset by a decrease of $462.1 million in average balances. Average balances of business loans included average balances of $41.9 million in Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans at December 31, 2022, which was a decline of $812.2 million from balances of $854.1 million at December 31, 2021. Interest on personal real estate loans increased $2.6 million as the average balance grew $44.0 million and the average rate earned increased four basis points. Interest on consumer loans grew $7.7 million over 2021 as the average rate earned increased 25 basis points and average balances were higher by $66.2 million. Revolving home equity loan interest increased $2.8 million due to an increase of 108 basis points in the average rate earned, slightly offset by lower average balances of $5.8 million. Interest on consumer credit card loans was higher by $558 thousand due to an increase of 72 basis points in the average rate earned, mostly offset by a decline of $30.3 million, or 5.3%, in average balances.

Current wording

During 2024, loan interest income (FTE) grew $79.6 million over 2023 mainly due to an increase in rates earned for all loan categories and growth of $310.2 million, or 1.8%, in average loan balances. The average fully taxable-equivalent rate earned on the loan portfolio increased 36 basis points to 6.26% in 2024 compared to 5.90% in 2023. The higher rates earned on the loan portfolio were impacted by actions taken by the Federal Reserve in 2024 to lower short-term interest rates, which caused most of the Company's variable rate loan portfolio to re-price lower and fixed rate loans to originate at lower interest rates than the weighted-average of the portfolio of fixed rate loans. Increased interest earned on business, consumer, personal real estate and business real estate loans was the main driver of overall higher loan interest income. Business loan interest income increased $33.3 million due to a 40 basis point increase in the average rate earned and an increase of $164.3 million, or 2.84%, in average balances. Interest earned on consumer loans increased $16.2 million mainly due to an increase of 74 basis points in the average rate earned. Personal real estate loan interest grew $13.0 million in 2024 compared to 2023 as a result of an increase of 35 basis points in the average rate earned and higher average balances of $63.8 million, or 2.14%. Interest on construction and land loans grew $1.3 million over the prior year due to growth in the average rate earned of 29 basis points, partly offset by a decrease of $35.0 million, or 2.4%, in average loan balances. Interest on business real estate loans increased $12.5 million as the average rate earned increased 21 basis points and the average balance grew $75.3 million, or 2.1%. Revolving home equity loan interest increased $2.5 million mainly due to growth in average balances of $30.7 million, or 10.1%. Interest on consumer credit card loans was higher by $829 thousand due to an increase of 16 basis points in the average rate earned.

Previous wording

Fully taxable-equivalent interest income on total investment securities increased $76.9 million during 2022, as average balances grew $1.5 billion and the average rate earned increased 34 basis points. The average rate on the total investment securities portfolio was 2.15% in 2022 compared to 1.81% in 2021, while the average balance of the total investment securities portfolio (excluding unrealized fair value adjustments on available for sale debt securities) was $14.9 billion in 2022 compared to an average balance of $13.5 billion in 2021. The increase in interest income was mainly due to higher interest income earned on mortgage-backed, asset-backed and U.S. government securities. Interest earned on mortgage-backed securities increased $40.7 million due to a 59 basis point increase in the average rate earned. The increase of $26.0 million in interest earned on asset-backed securities was due to an increase of 35 basis points in the average rate earned coupled with growth of $1.1 billion in average balances. Interest earned on U.S. government securities grew $8.2 million and was mainly impacted by growth of $7.3 million in inflation income on TIPS. Average balances of U.S. government securities increased $301.9 million, while the average rate earned declined 39 basis points.

Current wording

Fully taxable-equivalent interest income on total investment securities decreased $8.5 million during 2024, as average balances declined $1.9 billion, while the average rate earned increased 34 basis points. The average rate on the total investment securities portfolio was 2.63% in 2024 compared to 2.29% in 2023, while the average balance of the total investment securities portfolio (excluding unrealized fair value adjustments on available for sale debt securities) was $10.4 billion in 2024 compared to an average balance of $12.4 billion in 2023. The decrease in interest income was mainly due to lower interest income earned on mortgage-backed securities, asset-backed securities and state and municipal securities, partly offset by an higher interest income earned on U.S. government securities. Interest earned on mortgage-backed securities decreased $16.2 million due to lower average balances of $878.4 million, slightly offset by an increase of three basis points in the average rate earned. Interest earned on asset-backed securities decreased $12.8 million, due to a decline in average balances of $991.4 million, partly offset by an increase of 48 basis points in the average rate earned. The decrease of $10.9 million in interest earned on state and municipal securities was due to a decrease of $497.5 million in average balances and a decline of seven basis points in average rate earned. Interest earned on U.S. government securities increased $35.9 million mainly due to higher average balances of $601.7 million, or 60.0%, and an increase in average rate earned of 130 basis points. Interest earned on U.S. government securities was impacted by a decline of $2.5 million in inflation income on treasury inflation-protected securities (TIPS).

Previous wording

During 2022, interest expense on deposits increased $19.2 million over 2021 and resulted mainly from an 11 basis point increase in the overall average rate paid on deposits. Interest expense on interest checking and money market accounts increased $18.0 million mainly due to higher rates paid, which grew 12 basis points, coupled with higher average balances of $1.1 billion. Interest expense on certificates of deposit over $100,000 grew $1.3 million, mainly due to a 37 basis point increase in the average rate paid. The overall rate paid on total deposits increased from .07% in 2021 to .18% in the current year. Interest expense on borrowings increased $26.0 million mainly due to a 95 basis point increase in the rate paid on securities sold under repurchase agreements. The overall average rate incurred on all interest bearing liabilities was .30% in 2022, compared to .07% in 2021.

Current wording

During 2024, interest expense on deposits increased $90.0 million over 2023 and resulted mainly from a 52 basis point increase in the overall average rate paid on deposits. Interest expense on interest checking and money market accounts increased $80.5 million due to higher rates paid, which grew 59 basis points, and growth in average balances of $226.3 million, or 1.7%. Interest expense on certificates of deposit grew $9.5 million, due to a 33 basis point increase in the average rate paid, coupled with a $33.1 million increase in average balances. The overall rate paid on total deposits increased from 1.44% in 2023 to 1.96% in the current year. Interest expense on borrowings decreased $44.8 million mainly due to a $975.0 million decrease in average balances. Interest expense on federal funds purchased decreased $13.0 million, mainly due to a $265.7 million decline in average balances, while interest expense on securities sold under repurchase agreements increased $7.7 million due to a 26 basis point increase in average rate earned and an increase of $47.4 million in average balances. Interest expense on Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) borrowings declined $39.5 million due to a decline of $756.7 million in average balances. The Company did not have any outstanding FHLB borrowings at December 31, 2024. The overall average rate incurred on all interest bearing liabilities was 2.17% in 2024, compared to 1.86% in 2023.

Previous wording

Net interest income totaled $998.1 million in 2023, increasing $55.9 million, or 5.9%, compared to $942.2 million in 2022. On a fully taxable-equivalent (FTE) basis, net interest income totaled $1.0 billion, and increased $54.9 million over 2022. This growth was mainly due to increases of $339.4 million in interest earned on loans and $88.2 million in interest earned on balances at the Federal Reserve, both mainly due to higher average rates earned. These increases were partly offset by an increase of $325.9 million in interest expense on deposits and borrowings, mainly due to higher average rates paid, and lower interest earned on investment securities of $38.0 million, mainly due to lower average balances. The net yield on earning assets (FTE) was 3.16% in 2023 compared with 2.85% in 2022. The fully taxable-equivalent basis uses a federal income tax rate of 21%.

Current wording

Net interest income totaled $998.1 million in 2023, increasing $55.9 million, or 5.9%, compared to $942.2 million in 2022. On a FTE basis, net interest income totaled $1.0 billion, and increased $54.9 million over 2022. This growth was mainly due to increases of $339.4 million in interest earned on loans and $88.2 million in interest earned on balances at the Federal Reserve, both mainly due to higher average rates earned. These increases were partly offset by an increase of $325.9 million in interest expense on deposits and borrowings, mainly due to higher average rates paid, and lower interest earned on investment securities of $38.0 million, mainly due to lower average balances. The net yield on earning assets (FTE) was 3.16% in 2023 compared with 2.85% in 2022.

Previous wording

During 2023, loan interest income (FTE) grew $339.4 million over 2022 mainly due to an increase in rates earned for all loan categories and a $1.2 billion, or 7.8%, increase in average loan balances. The average fully taxable-equivalent rate earned on the loan portfolio increased 172 basis points to 5.90% in 2023 compared to 4.18% in 2022. The higher rates earned on the loan portfolio were partly related to actions taken by the Federal Reserve to raise short-term interest rates, which caused most of the Company's variable rate loan portfolio to re-price higher. Additionally, fixed rate loans were generally originated in 2023 at higher interest rates than the weighted-average of the portfolio of fixed rate loans. Increased interest earned on business, business real estate and construction and land loans was the main driver of overall higher interest income. Business loan interest income increased $128.3 million due to a 196 basis point increase in the average rate earned and an increase of $405.2 million, or 7.5%, in average balances. Business real estate loan interest grew $80.2 million in 2023 compared to 2022 as a result of an increase of 181 basis points in the average rate earned and higher average balances of $372.0 million, or 11.6%. Interest earned on construction and land loans increased $55.3 million due to an increase of 292 basis points in the average rate earned and growth of $243.8 million, or 19.8%, in average balances. Interest on personal real estate loans increased $15.9 million as the average rate earned increased 38 basis points and the average balance grew $137.4 million. Interest on consumer loans grew $37.3 million over the prior year as the average rate earned increased 174 basis points. Revolving home equity loan interest increased $10.2 million due to an increase of 301 basis points in the average rate earned and growth in average balances of $22.7 million. Interest on consumer credit card loans was higher by $12.4 million due to an increase of 191 basis points in the average rate earned and a $14.0 million increase in average balances.

Current wording

During 2023, loan interest income (FTE) grew $339.4 million over 2022 mainly due to an increase in rates earned for all loan categories and a $1.2 billion, or 7.8%, increase in average loan balances. The average fully taxable-equivalent rate earned on the loan portfolio increased 172 basis points to 5.90% in 2023 compared to 4.18% in 2022. The higher rates earned on the loan portfolio were partly related to actions taken by the Federal Reserve to raise short-term interest rates during 2022 and 2023, which caused most of the Company's variable rate loan portfolio to re-price higher. Additionally, fixed rate loans were generally originated in 2023 at higher interest rates than the weighted-average of the portfolio of fixed rate loans. Increased interest earned on business, business real estate and construction and land loans was the main driver of overall higher interest income. Business loan interest income increased $128.3 million due to a 196 basis point increase in the average rate earned and an increase of $405.2 million, or 7.5%, in average balances. Business real estate loan interest grew $80.2 million in 2023 compared to 2022 as a result of an increase of 181 basis points in the average rate earned and higher average balances of $372.0 million, or 11.6%. Interest earned on construction and land loans increased $55.3 million due to an increase of 292 basis points in the average rate earned and growth of $243.8 million, or 19.8%, in average balances. Interest on personal real estate loans increased $15.9 million as the average rate earned increased 38 basis points and the average balance grew $137.4 million. Interest on consumer loans grew $37.3 million over 2022 as the average rate earned increased 174 basis points. Revolving home equity loan interest increased $10.2 million due to an increase of 301 basis points in the average rate earned and growth in average balances of $22.7 million. Interest on consumer credit card loans was higher by $12.4 million due to an increase of 191 basis points in the average rate earned and a $14.0 million increase in average balances.

Previous wording

Fully taxable-equivalent interest income on total investment securities decreased $38.0 million during 2023, as average balances declined $2.6 billion, while the average rate earned increased 14 basis points. The average rate on the total investment securities portfolio was 2.29% in 2023 compared to 2.15% in 2022, while the average balance of the total investment securities portfolio (excluding unrealized fair value adjustments on available for sale debt securities) was $12.4 billion in 2023 compared to an average balance of $14.9 billion in 2022. The decrease in interest income was mainly due to lower interest income earned on U.S. government securities, state and municipal securities and mortgage-backed securities. Interest earned on U.S. government securities decreased $16.2 million mainly due to lower treasury inflation-protected securities (TIPS) interest income of $14.3 million. Average balances of U.S. government securities decreased $96.0 million and the average rate earned declined 125 basis points. The decrease of $15.8 million in interest earned on state and municipal securities was due to a decrease of $542.8 million in average balances and a decline of 23 basis points in average rate earned. Interest earned on mortgage-backed securities decreased $7.0 million due to a lower average balances of $742.6 million, partly offset by an increase of 12 basis points in the average rate earned. Interest earned on asset-backed securities decreased $398 thousand, due to a decline in average balances of $1.2 billion, mostly offset by an increase of 62 basis points in the average rate earned.

Current wording

Fully taxable-equivalent interest income on total investment securities decreased $38.0 million during 2023, as average balances declined $2.6 billion, while the average rate earned increased 14 basis points. The average rate on the total investment securities portfolio was 2.29% in 2023 compared to 2.15% in 2022, while the average balance of the total investment securities portfolio (excluding unrealized fair value adjustments on available for sale debt securities) was $12.4 billion in 2023 compared to an average balance of $14.9 billion in 2022. The decrease in interest income was mainly due to lower interest income earned on U.S. government securities, state and municipal securities and mortgage-backed securities. Interest earned on U.S. government securities decreased $16.2 million mainly due to lower TIPS interest income of $14.3 million. Average balances of U.S. government securities decreased $96.0 million and the average rate earned declined 125 basis points. The decrease of $15.8 million in interest earned on state and municipal securities was due to a decrease of $542.8 million in average balances and a decline of 23 basis points in average rate earned. Interest earned on mortgage-backed securities decreased $7.0 million due to a lower average balances of $742.6 million, partly offset by an increase of 12 basis points in the average rate earned. Interest earned on asset-backed securities decreased $398 thousand, due to a decline in average balances of $1.2 billion, mostly offset by an increase of 62 basis points in the average rate earned.

Previous wording

During 2023, interest expense on deposits increased $215.7 million over 2022 and resulted mainly from a 126 basis point increase in the overall average rate paid on deposits. Interest expense on interest checking and money market accounts increased $121.3 million mainly due to higher rates paid, which grew 94 basis points, slightly offset by lower average balances of $1.4 billion. Interest expense on certificates of deposit grew $94.4 million, mainly due to a 350 basis point increase in the average rate paid, coupled with a $1.4 billion increase in average balances. The overall rate paid on total deposits increased from .18% in 2022 to 1.44% in the current year. Interest expense on borrowings increased $110.2 million mainly due to a 210 basis point increase in the rate paid on securities sold under repurchase agreements and an increase in $711.3 million in average Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) borrowings. The Company did not have any outstanding FHLB borrowings at December 31, 2023. The overall average rate incurred on all interest bearing liabilities was 1.86% in 2023, compared to .30% in 2022.

Current wording

During 2023, interest expense on deposits increased $215.7 million over 2022 and resulted mainly from a 126 basis point increase in the overall average rate paid on deposits. Interest expense on interest checking and money market accounts increased $121.3 million mainly due to higher rates paid, which grew 94 basis points, slightly offset by lower average balances of $1.4 billion. Interest expense on certificates of deposit grew $94.4 million, mainly due to a 350 basis point increase in the average rate paid, coupled with a $1.4 billion increase in average balances. The overall rate paid on total deposits increased from .18% in 2022 to 1.44% in 2023. Interest expense on borrowings increased $110.2 million mainly due to a 210 basis point increase in the rate paid on securities sold under repurchase agreements and an increase in $711.3 million in average FHLB borrowings. The Company did not have any outstanding FHLB borrowings at December 31, 2023. The overall average rate incurred on all interest bearing liabilities was 1.86% in 2023, compared to .30% in 2022.

Previous wording

The provision for credit losses is comprised of provisions for credit losses on loans and unfunded lending commitments and is recorded to adjust the allowance for credit losses on loans and the liability for unfunded lending commitments to a level deemed adequate by management based on the factors mentioned in the “Allowance for Credit Losses on Loans and Liability for Unfunded Lending Commitments” section of this discussion. The provision for credit losses was $35.5 million in 2023, an increase of $7.4 million over the 2022 provision.

Current wording

The provision for credit losses is comprised of provisions for credit losses on loans and unfunded lending commitments and is recorded to adjust the allowance for credit losses on loans and the liability for unfunded lending commitments to a level deemed adequate by management based on the factors mentioned in the “Allowance for Credit Losses on Loans and Liability for Unfunded Lending Commitments” section of this discussion. The provision for credit losses was $32.9 million in 2024, a decrease of $2.5 million from the 2023 provision.

Previous wording

The provision for credit losses on loans for the year ended December 31, 2023 was $43.3 million, compared to $19.2 million in 2022. The allowance for credit losses on loans totaled $162.4 million at December 31, 2023, an increase of $12.3 million compared to the prior year, and represented .94% of loans at year end 2023, compared to .92% at December 31, 2022.

Current wording

The provision for credit losses on loans for the year ended December 31, 2024 was $39.2 million, compared to $43.3 million in 2023. The allowance for credit losses on loans totaled $162.7 million at December 31, 2024, an increase of $347 thousand compared to the prior year, and represented .95% of loans at year end 2024, compared to .94% at December 31, 2023.

Previous wording

The provision for unfunded lending commitments was a benefit of $7.9 million during 2023, compared to a provision of $8.9 million in 2022. The liability for unfunded lending commitments was $25.2 million at December 31, 2023, compared to $33.1 million at December 31, 2022.

Current wording

The provision for unfunded lending commitments was a benefit of $6.3 million during 2024, compared to a benefit of $7.9 million in 2023. The liability for unfunded lending commitments was $18.9 million at December 31, 2024, compared to $25.2 million at December 31, 2023.

Previous wording

Non-interest income totaled $573.0 million, an increase of $26.5 million, or 4.9%, compared to $546.5 million in 2022. Bank card fees increased $15.0 million, or 8.5%, over the prior year, mainly due to increases in net corporate card fees of $10.6 million, net debit card fees of $2.9 million and net merchant fees of $1.6 million. The growth in net corporate card fees over the prior year was mainly due to lower rewards and network expense coupled with higher interchange income. Net debit card fees increased mainly due to lower network expense, while net merchant fees increased mainly due to higher merchant discount fees. Trust fee income increased $6.2 million, or 3.4%, as a result of higher private client trust fees (up 4.3%), which comprised 80.4% of trust fee income in 2023. The market value of total customer trust assets totaled $68.9 billion at year end 2023, which was an increase of 14.2% over year end 2022 balances. Deposit account fees decreased $3.4 million, or 3.6%, mainly due to lower overdraft and return item fees of $8.3 million, partly offset by growth in corporate cash management fees of $3.8 million. In 2023, corporate cash management fees comprised 61.9% of total deposit fees, while overdraft fees comprised 12.8% of total deposit fees. Revenue from consumer brokerage services decreased $1.9 million, or 9.9%, mainly due to lower annuity fees, while loan fees and sales decreased $2.0 million, or 15.0%, mainly due to lower mortgage banking revenue. Other non-interest income increased $12.7 million, or 28.2%, over the prior year mainly due to higher letter of credit fees of $3.2 million, cash sweep commissions of $2.9 million, gains on the sale of real estate of $2.1 million and swap fees of $1.1 million. In addition, increases of $6.4 million in fair value adjustments were recorded on the Company's deferred compensation plan, which are held in a trust and recorded as both an asset and a liability, affecting both other income and other expense. These increases were partly offset by lower tax credit sales income of $2.4 million.

Current wording

During 2023, non-interest income totaled $573.0 million, an increase of $26.5 million, or 4.9%, compared to $546.5 million in 2022. Bank card fees increased $15.0 million, or 8.5%, over 2022, mainly due to increases in net corporate card fees of $10.6 million, net debit card fees of $2.9 million and net merchant fees of $1.6 million. The growth in net corporate card fees over 2022 was mainly due to lower rewards and network expense coupled with higher interchange income. Net debit card fees increased mainly due to lower network expense, while net merchant fees increased mainly due to higher merchant discount fees. Trust fee income increased $6.2 million, or 3.4%, as a result of higher private client trust fees (up 4.3%), which comprised 80.4% of trust fee income in 2023. The market value of total customer trust assets totaled $68.9 billion at year end 2023, which was an increase of 14.2% over year end 2022 balances. Deposit account fees decreased $3.4 million, or 3.6%, mainly due to lower overdraft and return item fees of $8.3 million, partly offset by growth in corporate cash management fees of $3.8 million. In 2023, corporate cash management fees comprised 61.9% of total deposit fees, while overdraft fees comprised 12.8% of total deposit fees. Revenue from consumer brokerage services decreased $1.9 million, or 9.9%, mainly due to lower annuity fees, while loan fees and sales decreased $2.0 million, or 15.0%, mainly due to lower mortgage banking revenue. Other non-interest income increased $12.7 million, or 28.2%, over 2022 mainly due to higher letter of credit fees of $3.2 million, cash sweep commissions of $2.9 million, gains on the sale of real estate of $2.1 million and swap fees of $1.1 million. In addition, increases of $6.4 million in fair value adjustments were recorded on the Company's deferred compensation plan, which are held in a trust and recorded as both an asset and a liability, affecting both other income and other expense. These increases were partly offset by lower tax credit sales income of $2.4 million.

Previous wording

Net gains and losses on investment securities during 2023, 2022 and 2021 are shown in the table above. Included in these amounts are gains and losses arising from sales of securities from the Company’s available for sale debt portfolio and gains and losses relating to private equity investments, which are primarily held by the Parent’s majority-owned private equity subsidiary. The gains and losses on private equity investments include fair value adjustments, in addition to gains and losses realized upon disposition. The portions of private equity investment gains and losses that are attributable to minority interests are reported as non-controlling interest in the consolidated statements of income, and resulted in expense of $4.8 million in 2023, $8.5 million in 2022, and $6.5 million in 2021.

Current wording

Net gains and losses on investment securities during 2024, 2023 and 2022 are shown in the table above. Included in these amounts are gains and losses arising from sales of securities from the Company’s available for sale debt portfolio, net gains and losses on equity securities, and gains and losses relating to private equity investments, which are primarily held by the Parent’s majority-owned private equity subsidiary. The gains and losses on private equity investments include fair value adjustments, in addition to gains and losses realized upon disposition. The portions of private equity investment gains and losses that are attributable to minority interests are reported as non-controlling interest in the consolidated statements of income, and resulted in expense of $4.2 million in 2024, $4.8 million in 2023, and $8.5 million in 2022.

Previous wording

Net securities gains of $15.0 million were recorded in 2023, which included net gains of $24.0 million in fair value adjustments on private equity investments. This increase was partly offset by net losses of $8.4 million realized on sales resulting from the Company's sale of approximately $1.1 billion (book value) in bonds, mainly state and municipal securities and asset-backed securities, net losses of $100 thousand on sales of private equity investments, and net losses of $487 thousand in fair value adjustments on equity securities.

Current wording

Net securities gains of $15.0 million were recorded in 2023, which included net gains of $24.0 million in fair value adjustments on private equity investments. This increase was partly offset by losses of $8.4 million realized on sales of available for sale debt securities resulting from the Company's sale of approximately $1.1 billion (book value) in bonds, mainly state and municipal securities and asset-backed securities, net losses of $100 thousand on sales of private equity investments, and net losses of $487 thousand on equity securities.

Previous wording

Net securities gains of $20.5 million were recorded in 2022, which included net gains of $43.8 million in fair value adjustments on private equity investments. This increase was partly offset by losses of $20.3 million realized on sales resulting from the Company's sale of approximately $105 million (book value) in bonds, mainly mortgage-backed and corporate bond securities, net losses of $2.1 million on sales of private equity investments, and net losses of $943 thousand in fair value adjustments on equity securities.

Current wording

Net securities gains of $20.5 million were recorded in 2022, which included net gains of $43.8 million in fair value adjustments on private equity investments. This increase was partly offset by losses of $20.3 million realized on sales of available for sale debt securities resulting from the Company's sale of approximately $105 million (book value) in bonds, mainly mortgage-backed and corporate bond securities, net losses of $2.1 million on sales of private equity investments, and net losses of $926 thousand on equity securities.

Previous wording

Non-interest expense was $931.0 million in 2023, an increase of $82.2 million, or 9.7%, over the previous year. Salaries and benefits expense increased $30.0 million, or 5.4%, mainly due to higher costs for full-time salaries, healthcare expense and payroll taxes, partly offset by lower incentive compensation expense. Full-time equivalent employees totaled 4,718 at December 31, 2023, compared to 4,594 at December 31, 2022. Data processing and software expense increased $8.1 million, or 7.3%, primarily due to increased costs for service providers and higher bank card processing fees. Net occupancy expense increased $4.5 million, or 9.2%, mainly due to higher depreciation expense and real estate taxes, partly offset by higher rent income. Deposit insurance expense increased $22.6 million due to a $16.0 million accrual during the fourth quarter of 2023 for a one-time special assessment by the FDIC to replenish the Deposit Insurance Fund. Marketing expense increased $684 thousand, or 2.9%, while supplies and communication expense increased $1.3 million, or 7.3%, mainly due to higher postage expense, bank card reissuance fees and office supplies expense. Other non-interest expense increased $14.8 million, or 23.5%, mainly due to higher costs for travel and entertainment expense (up $1.9 million), miscellaneous losses (up $2.1 million), pension plan expense ($1.5 million) and lower deferred origination costs (up $1.6 million). In addition, an increase of $6.4 million in fair value adjustments were recorded on the Company's deferred compensation plan, and deconversion costs of $2.1 million relating to the transition of Commerce Financial Advisors support to LPL Financial's Institution Services platform were recorded in 2023.

Current wording

In 2023, non-interest expense was $931.0 million in 2023, an increase of $82.2 million, or 9.7%, over 2022. Salaries and benefits expense increased $30.0 million, or 5.4%, mainly due to higher costs for full-time salaries, healthcare expense and payroll taxes, partly offset by lower incentive compensation expense. Full-time equivalent employees totaled 4,718 at December 31, 2023, compared to 4,594 at December 31, 2022. Data processing and software expense increased $8.1 million, or 7.3%, primarily due to increased costs for service providers and higher bank card processing fees. Net occupancy expense increased $4.5 million, or 9.2%, mainly due to higher depreciation expense and real estate taxes, partly offset by higher rent income. Deposit insurance expense increased $22.6 million due to a $16.0 million one-time special assessment accrual recorded the fourth quarter of 2023, mentioned above. Professional and other services expense increased $393 thousand, or 1.1%, mainly due to higher pension plan expense, partly offset by lower loan collection fees. Marketing expense increased $684 thousand, or 2.9%, while supplies and communication expense increased $1.3 million, or 7.3%, mainly due to higher postage expense, bank card reissuance fees and office supplies expense. Other non-interest expense increased $14.4 million, or 53.0%, mainly due to higher costs for travel and entertainment expense (up $1.9 million), miscellaneous losses (up $2.1 million) and lower deferred origination costs (up $1.6 million). In addition, an increase of $6.4 million in fair value adjustments were recorded on the Company's deferred compensation plan, and deconversion costs of $2.1 million relating to the transition of Commerce Financial Advisors support to LPL Financial's Institution Services platform were recorded in 2023.

Previous wording

Income tax expense was $134.5 million in 2023, compared to $132.4 million in 2022 and $145.7 million in 2021. The effective tax rate, including the effect of non-controlling interest, was 22.0% in 2023 compared to 21.3% in 2022 and 21.5% in 2021. Additional information about income tax expense is provided in Note 9 to the consolidated financial statements.

Current wording

Income tax expense was $145.1 million in 2024, compared to $134.5 million in 2023 and $132.4 million in 2022. The effective tax rate, including the effect of non-controlling interest, was 21.6% in 2024 compared to 22.0% in 2023 and 21.3% in 2022. The decrease in the effective tax rate in 2024 compared to the rate for 2023 was mostly due to lower state and local income taxes. Additional information about income tax expense is provided in Note 9 to the consolidated financial statements.

Previous wording

Total loans at December 31, 2023 were $17.2 billion, an increase of $902.3 million, or 5.5%, over balances at December 31, 2022. The increase in loans during 2023 occurred in all categories over the previous year, with the exception of overdrafts. Business loans increased $357.3 million, or 6.3%, mainly due to a $173.9 million increase in commercial and industrial loans and a $95.1 million increase in lease loans. Commercial card and tax-advantaged lending, included within business loans, also increased during 2023. Construction loans increased $85.7 million, or 6.3%, mainly due to growth in commercial construction lending. Business real estate loans increased $312.3 million, or 9.2%, due mainly to increases in industrial, hotel and senior living lending, while multi-family and office building lending declined. Personal real estate loans increased $108.0 million, or 3.7%. The Company sells certain long-term fixed rate mortgage loans to the secondary market, and loan sales in 2023 totaled $29.9 million, compared to $111.3 million in 2022. Consumer loans increased $18.6 million, or .9%, mainly due to growth in consumer auto lending. Health services financing and fixed rate home equity loans also increased, offset by declines in other vehicle and equipment lending (mostly comprised of motorcycle loans) and continued run off of marine and recreational vehicle loan balances. Consumer credit card loans increased $5.9 million, or 1.0%, and revolving home equity loan balances increased $22.7 million, or 7.6%, compared to balances at year end 2022.

Current wording

Total loans at December 31, 2024 were $17.2 billion, an increase of $14.6 million, or 0.1%, over balances at December 31, 2023. The increase in loans during 2024 occurred mainly due to an increase in revolving home equity, business loans and personal real estate loans, partly offset by decreases in business real estate and construction loans. Business loans increased $34.8 million, or 0.6%, mainly due to a $68.0 million increase in commercial and industrial loans and a $23.1 million increase in tax-advantaged lending, partly offset by a $73.9 million decrease in commercial card loans. Lease loans, included within business loans, also increased during 2024. Construction loans decreased $36.9 million, or 2.5%, mainly due to a decline in commercial construction lending. Business real estate loans decreased $58.1 million, or 1.6%, due mainly to decreases in industrial and retail lending, while owner-occupied, multi-family and hotel lending grew. Personal real estate loans increased $32.2 million, or 1.1%. The Company sells certain long-term fixed rate mortgage loans to the secondary market, and loan sales in 2024 totaled $70.0 million, compared to $29.9 million in 2023. Consumer loans decreased $4.6 million, or .2%, mainly due to a decline in consumer auto lending. Fixed rate home equity and other vehicle and equipment loans also decreased combined with continued run off of marine and recreational vehicle loan balances, offset by growth in private banking and health services financing. Consumer credit card loans increased $6.0 million, or 1.0%, and revolving home equity loan balances increased $36.8 million, or 11.5%, compared to balances at year end 2023.

Previous wording

The Company participates in credits of large, publicly traded companies which are defined by regulation as shared national credits, or SNCs. Regulations define SNCs as loans exceeding $100 million that are shared by three or more financial institutions. The Company typically participates in these loans when business operations are maintained in the local communities or regional markets and opportunities to provide other banking services are present. At December 31, 2023, the balance of SNC loans totaled approximately $1.5 billion, with an additional $2.2 billion in unfunded commitments, compared to a balance of $1.4 billion, with an additional $2.0 billion in unfunded commitments, at year end 2022.

Current wording

The Company participates in credits of large, publicly traded companies which are defined by regulation as shared national credits, or SNCs. Regulations define SNCs as loans exceeding $100 million that are shared by three or more financial institutions. The Company typically participates in these loans when business operations are maintained in the local communities or regional markets and opportunities to provide other banking services are present. At December 31, 2024, the balance of SNC loans totaled approximately $1.6 billion, with an additional $2.5 billion in unfunded commitments, compared to a balance of $1.5 billion, with an additional $2.2 billion in unfunded commitments, at year end 2023.

Previous wording

Total business loans amounted to $6.0 billion at December 31, 2023 and includes loans used mainly to fund customer accounts receivable, inventories, and capital expenditures. The business loan portfolio includes tax-advantaged loans and leases which carry tax-free interest rates. These loans totaled $666.1 million at December 31, 2023, an increase of $48.0 million, or 7.8%, from December 31, 2022 balances. In addition to tax-advantaged leases, the business loan portfolio also includes other direct financing and sales type leases totaling $709.7 million at December 31, 2023, an increase of $95.1 million, or 15.5%, from December 31, 2022. These loans are used by commercial customers to finance capital purchases ranging from computer equipment to office and transportation equipment. Additionally, the Company has $260.8 million of outstanding loans included within its $272.0 million oil and gas energy-related loan portfolio at December 31, 2023, which is further discussed within the Oil and Gas Energy Lending section of the Risk Elements of Loan Portfolio section located within Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations. Also included in the business portfolio are corporate card loans, which totaled $407.6 million at December 31, 2023 and are made in conjunction with the Company’s corporate card business for corporate trade purchases. Corporate card loans are made to corporate, non-profit and government customers nationwide, but have very short-term maturities, which limits credit risk.

Current wording

Total business loans amounted to $6.1 billion at December 31, 2024 and includes loans used mainly to fund customer accounts receivable, inventories, and capital expenditures. The business loan portfolio includes tax-advantaged loans and leases which carry tax-free interest rates. These loans totaled $689.2 million at December 31, 2024, an increase of $23.1 million, or 3.5%, from December 31, 2023 balances. In addition to tax-advantaged leases, the business loan portfolio also includes other direct financing and sales type leases totaling $727.4 million at December 31, 2024, an increase of $17.6 million, or 2.5%, from December 31, 2023. These loans are used by commercial customers to finance capital purchases ranging from computer equipment to office and transportation equipment. Additionally, the Company has $330.5 million of outstanding loans included within its $338.0 million oil and gas energy-related loan portfolio at December 31, 2024, which is further discussed within the Oil and Gas Energy Lending section of the Risk Elements of Loan Portfolio section located within Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations. Also included in the business portfolio are corporate card loans, which totaled $332.1 million at December 31, 2024 and are made in conjunction with the Company’s corporate card business for corporate trade purchases. Corporate card loans are made to corporate, non-profit and government customers nationwide, but have very short-term maturities, which limits credit risk.

Previous wording

Business loans, excluding corporate card loans, are made primarily to customers in the regional trade area of the Company, generally the central Midwest, encompassing the states of Missouri, Kansas, Illinois, and nearby Midwestern markets, including Iowa, Oklahoma, Colorado, Texas, Tennessee, Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio. This portfolio is diversified from an industry standpoint and includes businesses engaged in manufacturing, wholesaling, retailing, agribusiness, insurance, financial services, public utilities, health care, and other service businesses. Emphasis is upon middle-market and community businesses with known local management and financial stability. Consistent with management’s strategy and emphasis upon relationship banking, most borrowing customers also maintain deposit accounts and utilize other banking services. Net loan charge-offs in this category totaled $3.1 million in 2023 compared to $1.1 million in 2022. Non-accrual business loans were $3.6 million (.1% of business loans) at December 31, 2023 compared to $6.8 million at December 31, 2022.

Current wording

Business loans, excluding corporate card loans, are made primarily to customers in the regional trade area of the Company, generally the central Midwest, encompassing the states of Missouri, Kansas, Illinois, and nearby Midwestern markets, including Iowa, Oklahoma, Colorado, Texas, Tennessee, Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio. This portfolio is diversified from an industry standpoint and includes businesses engaged in manufacturing, wholesaling, retailing, agribusiness, insurance, financial services, public utilities, health care, and other service businesses. Emphasis is upon middle-market and community businesses with known local management and financial stability. Consistent with management’s strategy and emphasis upon relationship banking, most borrowing customers also maintain deposit accounts and utilize other banking services. Net loan charge-offs in this category totaled $1.1 million in 2024 compared to $3.1 million in 2023. Non-accrual business loans were $101 thousand (less than .1% of business loans) at December 31, 2024 compared to $3.6 million at December 31, 2023.

Previous wording

The portfolio of loans in this category amounted to $1.4 billion at December 31, 2023, an increase of $85.7 million, or 6.3%, from the prior year and comprised 8.4% of the Company’s total loan portfolio. Commercial construction and land development loans totaled $1.3 billion, or 88.0% of total construction loans at December 31, 2023. These loans increased $100.9 million from 2022 year end balances, driving the growth in the total construction portfolio. Commercial construction loans are made during the construction phase for small and medium-sized office and medical buildings, manufacturing and warehouse facilities, apartment complexes, shopping centers, hotels and motels, and other commercial properties. Commercial land development loans relate to land owned or developed for use in conjunction with business properties. Residential construction and land development loans at December 31, 2023 totaled $173.1 million, or 12.0% of total construction loans. A stable construction market has contributed to low loss rates on these loans, with net loan recoveries of $115 thousand and no net loan charge-offs in 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Current wording

The portfolio of loans in this category amounted to $1.4 billion at December 31, 2024, a decrease of $36.9 million, or 2.5%, from the prior year and comprised 8.2% of the Company’s total loan portfolio. Commercial construction and land development loans totaled $1.2 billion, or 87.8% of total construction loans at December 31, 2024. These loans decreased $36.0 million from 2023 year end balances, driving the decline in the total construction portfolio. Commercial construction loans are made during the construction phase for small and medium-sized office and medical buildings, manufacturing and warehouse facilities, apartment complexes, shopping centers, hotels and motels, and other commercial properties. Commercial land development loans relate to land owned or developed for use in conjunction with business properties. Residential construction and land development loans at December 31, 2024 totaled $172.2 million, or 12.2% of total construction loans. A stable construction market has contributed to low loss rates on these loans, with no net loan charge-offs and net loan recoveries of $115 thousand in 2024 and 2023, respectively.

Previous wording

Total business real estate loans were $3.7 billion at December 31, 2023 and comprised 21.6% of the Company’s total loan portfolio. This category includes mortgage loans for small and medium-sized office and medical buildings, manufacturing and warehouse facilities, distribution facilities, multi-family housing, farms, shopping centers, hotels and motels, churches, and other commercial properties. The business real estate borrowers and/or properties are generally located in local and regional markets where Commerce does business, and emphasis is placed on owner-occupied lending (31.6% of this portfolio), which presents lower risk levels. Additional information about business real estate loans by borrower is disclosed within the Real Estate - Business Loans section of the Risk Elements of Loan Portfolio section located within Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations. At December 31, 2023, balances of non-accrual loans amounted to $60 thousand, less than .1% of business real estate loans, down from $189 thousand at year end 2022. The Company experienced net loan charge-offs of $104 thousand in 2023, compared to net loan recoveries of $20 thousand in 2022.

Current wording

Total business real estate loans were $3.7 billion at December 31, 2024 and comprised 21.3% of the Company’s total loan portfolio. This category includes mortgage loans for small and medium-sized office and medical buildings, manufacturing and warehouse facilities, distribution facilities, multi-family housing, farms, shopping centers, hotels and motels, churches, and other commercial properties. The business real estate borrowers and/or properties are generally located in local and regional markets where Commerce does business, and emphasis is placed on owner-occupied lending (33.8% of this portfolio), which presents lower risk levels. Additional information about business real estate loans by borrower is disclosed within the Real Estate - Business Loans section of the Risk Elements of Loan Portfolio section located within Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations. At December 31, 2024, balances of non-accrual loans amounted to $15.0 million, or .4% of business real estate loans, up from $60 thousand at year end 2023. The Company experienced net loan recoveries of $106 thousand in 2024, compared to net loan charge-offs of $104 thousand in 2023.

Previous wording

At December 31, 2023, there were $3.0 billion in outstanding personal real estate loans, which comprised 17.6% of the Company’s total loan portfolio. The mortgage loans in this category are mainly for owner-occupied residential properties. The Company originates both adjustable and fixed rate mortgage loans, and at December 31, 2023, 39% of the portfolio was comprised of adjustable rate loans, while 61% was comprised of fixed rate loans. The Company does not purchase any loans from outside parties or brokers.

Current wording

At December 31, 2024, there were $3.1 billion in outstanding personal real estate loans, which comprised 17.8% of the Company’s total loan portfolio. The mortgage loans in this category are mainly for owner-occupied residential properties. The Company originates both adjustable and fixed rate mortgage loans, and at December 31, 2024, 44% of the portfolio was comprised of adjustable rate loans, while 56% was comprised of fixed rate loans. The Company does not purchase any loans from outside parties or brokers.

Previous wording

The Company originates certain mortgage loans with the intent to sell to the secondary market, generally FNMA or FHLMC conforming fixed rate loans. The remaining loans are originated with the intent to hold to maturity. Of the $510 million of mortgage loans originated in 2023, $29.9 million were sold to the secondary market. This compares to $699 million of mortgage loans originated and $111.3 million of loans sold to the secondary market in 2022. The decrease in loan sales during 2023 compared to 2022 was mainly due to lower demand for mortgage loans. Net loan recoveries in 2023 totaled $37 thousand, and net loan recoveries were $74 thousand in 2022. Balances of non-accrual loans in this category were $1.7 million at December 31, 2023, compared to $1.4 million at year end 2022.

Current wording

The Company originates certain mortgage loans with the intent to sell to the secondary market, generally FNMA or FHLMC conforming fixed rate loans. The remaining loans are originated with the intent to hold to maturity. Of the $453.0 million of mortgage loans originated in 2024, $70.0 million were sold to the secondary market. This compares to $510.0 million of mortgage loans originated and $29.9 million of loans sold to the secondary market in 2023. The increase in loan sales during 2024 compared to 2023 was mainly due to a shift in demand for fixed rate mortgage loans. Net loan charge-offs in 2024 totaled $239 thousand, and net loan recoveries were $37 thousand in 2023. Balances of non-accrual loans in this category were $1.0 million at December 31, 2024, compared to $1.7 million at year end 2023.

Previous wording

December 31, 2023. Approximately 39% of the consumer portfolio consists of automobile loans, 32% in private banking loans, 11% in fixed rate home equity loans, and 10% in healthcare financing loans. Total consumer loans increased $18.6 million at year end 2023 compared to year end 2022. Growth of $21.7 million in auto loans was supplemented by increases of $13.7 million and $4.5 million in patient healthcare financing and fixed rate home equity loans, respectively. These increases in consumer loan balances were partially offset by declines of $13.7 million in other vehicle and equipment loans and $3.7 million in marine and RV loans. Net charge-offs on total consumer loans were $6.2 million in 2023, compared to $3.8 million in 2022, averaging .30% and .18% of consumer loans in 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Current wording

Consumer loans consist of private banking, automobile, motorcycle, marine, tractor/trailer, recreational vehicle (RV), fixed rate home equity, patient health care financing and other types of consumer loans. These loans totaled $2.1 billion at December 31, 2024. Approximately 38% of the consumer portfolio consists of automobile loans, 35% in private banking loans, 11% in fixed rate home equity loans, and 11% in healthcare financing loans. Total consumer loans decreased $4.6 million at year end 2024 compared to year end 2023. A decline of $43.5 million in auto loans was supplemented by decreases of $13.6 million and $12.7 million in fixed rate home equity and other vehicle and equipment loans, respectively. These decreases in consumer loan balances were partially offset by growth of $63.0 million in private banking loans and $11.9 million in patient healthcare financing. Net charge-offs on total consumer loans were $9.8 million in 2024, compared to $6.2 million in 2023, averaging .46% and .30% of consumer loans in 2024 and 2023, respectively.

Previous wording

Revolving home equity loans, of which 100% are adjustable rate loans, totaled $319.9 million at year end 2023. An additional $900.0 million was available in unused lines of credit, which can be drawn at the discretion of the borrower. Home equity loans are secured mainly by second mortgages (and less frequently, first mortgages) on residential property of the borrower. The underwriting terms for the home equity line product permit borrowing availability, in the aggregate, generally up to 80% or 90% of the appraised value of the collateral property at the time of origination. Net loan recoveries were $57 thousand in 2023, compared to net loan recoveries of $60 thousand in 2022.

Current wording

Revolving home equity loans, of which 100% are adjustable rate loans, totaled $356.7 million at year end 2024. An additional $947.9 million was available in unused lines of credit, which can be drawn at the discretion of the borrower. Home equity loans are secured mainly by second mortgages (and less frequently, first mortgages) on residential property of the borrower. The underwriting terms for the home equity line product permit borrowing availability, in the aggregate, generally up to 80% or 90% of the appraised value of the collateral property at the time of origination. Net loan recoveries were $166 thousand in 2024, compared to net loan recoveries of $57 thousand in 2023.