EAST WEST BANCORP INC

The following discussion provides information about the results of operations, financial condition, liquidity and capital resources of the Company, including its subsidiary bank, East West Bank. This information is intended to facilitate the understanding and assessment of significant changes and trends related to the Company’s results of operations and financial condition. This discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and the accompanying notes presented elsewhere in this Form 10-K. For information on our business, see Item 1. Businessin this Form 10-K.

Current Economic Developments

Evolving trade policies and tariffs and recent government shutdowns raised concerns about inflation, supply chain disruptions, and slower economic growth. The uncertain business environment led to a softening in the labor market, as companies adopted more cautious hiring practices, while reduced immigration further limited labor supply. The residential mortgage and CRE markets moderated but housing affordability pressures remained elevated. The Federal Reserve, which resumed lowering interest rates in late 2025, now faces heightened policy complexity in 2026. The transition to a new Chairman of the Federal Reserve, which is expected after Chairman Jerome Powell’s term expires in May 2026, adds additional uncertainty, particularly as leadership debates continue over balancing inflation risks against labor market softening. The economic uncertainty caused by these factors could result in decreased consumer spending and curb business investments. The Company monitors changes in economic and industry conditions and their impacts on the Company’s business, customers, employees, communities and markets.

Further discussion of the potential impacts on the Company’s business due to the economic environment has been provided in Item 1A. — Risk Factors — Risks Related to Geographic and Political Uncertaintiesand— Risks Related to Financial Matters in this Form 10-K.