GREAT SOUTHERN BANCORP INC

Previous wording

The following sets forth selected consolidated financial information and other financial data of the Company. The summary statement of financial condition information and statement of income information are derived from our consolidated financial statements, which have been audited by FORVIS, LLP. See Item 8. “Financial Statements and Supplementary Information.” Results for past periods are not necessarily indicative of results that may be expected for any future period.

Current wording

The following sets forth selected consolidated financial information and other financial data of the Company. The summary statement of financial condition information and statement of income information are derived from our consolidated financial statements, which have been audited by Forvis Mazars, LLP. See Item 8. “Financial Statements and Supplementary Information.” Results for past periods are not necessarily indicative of results that may be expected for any future period.

Previous wording

Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to: (i) expected revenues, cost savings, earnings accretion, synergies and other benefits from the Company’s merger and acquisition activities might not be realized within the anticipated time frames or at all, and costs or difficulties relating to integration matters, including but not limited to customer and employee retention, might be greater than expected; (ii) changes in economic conditions, either nationally or in the Company’s market areas; (iii) the remaining effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on general economic and financial market conditions and on public health; (iv) fluctuations in interest rates, the effects of inflation or a potential recession, whether caused by Federal Reserve actions or otherwise; (v) the impact of bank failures or adverse developments at other banks and related negative press about the banking industry in general on investor and depositor sentiment; (vi) slower economic growth caused by changes in energy prices, supply chain disruptions or other factors; (vii) the risks of lending and investing activities, including changes in the level and direction of loan delinquencies and write-offs and changes in estimates of the adequacy of the allowance for credit losses; (viii) the possibility of realized or unrealized losses on securities held in the Company’s investment portfolio; (ix) the Company’s ability to access cost-effective funding and maintain sufficient liquidity; (x) fluctuations in real estate values and both residential and commercial real estate market conditions; (xi) the ability to adapt successfully to technological changes to meet customers’ needs and developments in the marketplace; (xii) the possibility that security measures implemented might not be sufficient to mitigate the risk of a cyber-attack or cyber theft, and that such security measures might not protect against systems failures or interruptions; (xiii) legislative or regulatory changes that adversely affect the Company’s business; (xiv) changes in accounting policies and practices or accounting standards; (xv) results of examinations of the Company and Great Southern Bank by their regulators, including the possibility that the regulators may, among other things, require the Company to limit its business activities, change its business mix, increase its allowance for credit losses, write-down assets or increase its capital levels, or affect its ability to borrow funds or maintain or increase deposits, which could adversely affect its liquidity and earnings; (xvi) costs and effects of litigation, including settlements and judgments; (xvii) competition; and (xviii) natural disasters, war, terrorist activities or civil unrest and their effects on economic and business environments in which the Company operates. The Company wishes to advise readers that the factors listed above and other risks described in the Company’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-…

Excerpt shortened here; the source contains the full paragraph.

Current wording

Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to: (i) expected revenues, cost savings, earnings accretion, synergies and other benefits from the Company’s merger and acquisition activities might not be realized within the anticipated time frames or at all, and costs or difficulties relating to integration matters, including but not limited to customer and employee retention, might be greater than expected; (ii) changes in economic conditions, either nationally or in the Company’s market areas; (iii) the effects of any new or continuing public health issues on general economic and financial market conditions; (iv) fluctuations in interest rates, the effects of inflation or a potential recession, whether caused by Federal Reserve actions or otherwise; (v) the impact of bank failures or adverse developments at other banks and related negative press about the banking industry in general on investor and depositor sentiment; (vi) slower economic growth caused by changes in energy prices, supply chain disruptions or other factors; (vii) the risks of lending and investing activities, including changes in the level and direction of loan delinquencies and write-offs and changes in estimates of the adequacy of the allowance for credit losses; (viii) the possibility of realized or unrealized losses on securities held in the Company’s investment portfolio; (ix) the Company’s ability to access cost-effective funding and maintain sufficient liquidity; (x) fluctuations in real estate values and both residential and commercial real estate market conditions; (xi) the ability to adapt successfully to technological changes to meet customers’ needs and developments in the marketplace; (xii) the possibility that security measures implemented might not be sufficient to mitigate the risk of a cyber-attack or cyber theft, and that such security measures might not protect against systems failures or interruptions; (xiii) legislative or regulatory changes that adversely affect the Company’s business; (xiv) changes in accounting policies and practices or accounting standards; (xv) results of examinations of the Company and Great Southern Bank by their regulators, including the possibility that the regulators may, among other things, require the Company to limit its business activities, change its business mix, increase its allowance for credit losses, write-down assets or increase its capital levels, or affect its ability to borrow funds or maintain or increase deposits, which could adversely affect its liquidity and earnings; (xvi) costs and effects of litigation, including settlements and judgments; (xvii) competition; and (xviii) natural disasters, war, terrorist activities or civil unrest and their effects on economic and business environments in which the Company operates. The Company wishes to advise readers that the factors listed above and other risks described in the Company’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, includi…

Excerpt shortened here; the source contains the full paragraph.

Previous wording

The accounting and reporting policies of the Company conform with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States and general practices within the financial services industry. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and the accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Current wording

The accounting and financial reporting policies of the Company conform to accounting principles generally accepted in the United States and general practices within the financial services industry. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and the accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Previous wording

The Company believes that the determination of the allowance for credit losses involves a higher degree of judgment and complexity than its other significant accounting policies. The allowance for credit losses is calculated with the objective of maintaining an allowance level believed by management to be sufficient to absorb estimated credit losses. The allowance for credit losses is measured using an average historical loss model that incorporates relevant information about past events (including historical credit loss experience on loans with similar risk characteristics), current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts that affect the collectability of the remaining cash flows over the contractual term of the loans. The allowance for credit losses is measured on a collective (pool) basis. Loans are aggregated into pools based on similar risk characteristics, including borrower type, collateral and repayment types and expected credit loss patterns. Loans that do not share similar risk characteristics, primarily classified loans with a balance greater than or equal to $100,000, are evaluated on an individual basis.

Current wording

The Company believes that the determination of the allowance for credit losses involves a higher degree of judgment and complexity than its other significant accounting policies. The allowance for credit losses is calculated with the objective of maintaining an allowance level believed by management to be sufficient to absorb estimated credit losses. The allowance for credit losses is measured using an average historical loss model that incorporates relevant information about past events (including historical credit loss experience on loans with similar risk characteristics), current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts that affect the collectability of the remaining cash flows over the contractual term of the loans. The allowance for credit losses is measured on a collective (pool) basis. Loans are aggregated into pools based on similar risk characteristics, including borrower type, collateral and repayment types and expected credit loss patterns. Loans that do not share similar risk characteristics, primarily classified loans with a balance of $100,000 or more, are evaluated on an individual basis.

Previous wording

For loans evaluated for credit losses on a collective basis, average historical loss rates are calculated for each pool using the Company’s historical net charge-offs (combined charge-offs and recoveries by observable historical reporting period) and outstanding loan balances during a lookback period. Lookback periods can be different based on the individual pool and represent management’s credit expectations for the pool of loans over the remaining contractual life. In certain loan pools, if the Company’s own historical loss rate is not reflective of the loss expectations, the historical loss rate is augmented by industry and peer data. The calculated average net charge-off rate is then adjusted for current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts. These adjustments increase or decrease the average historical loss rate to reflect expectations of future losses given economic forecasts of key macroeconomic variables including, but not limited to, unemployment rate, GDP, disposable income and market volatility. The adjustments are based on results from various regression models projecting the impact of the macroeconomic variables to loss rates. The forecast is used for a reasonable and supportable period before reverting back to historical averages using a straight-line method. The forecast-adjusted loss rate is applied to the principal balance over the remaining contractual lives, adjusted for expected prepayments. The contractual term excludes expected extensions, renewals and modifications. Additionally, the allowance for credit losses considers other qualitative factors not included in historical loss rates or macroeconomic forecasts such as changes in portfolio composition, underwriting practices, or significant unique events or conditions.

Current wording

For loans evaluated for credit losses on a collective basis, average historical loss rates are calculated for each pool using the Company’s historical net charge-offs (combined charge-offs and recoveries by observable historical reporting period) and outstanding loan balances during a lookback period. Lookback periods can be different based on the individual pool and represent management’s credit expectations for the pool of loans over the remaining contractual life. In certain loan pools, if the Company’s own historical loss rate is not reflective of the loss expectations, the historical loss rate is augmented by industry and peer data. The calculated average net charge-off rate is then adjusted for current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts. These adjustments increase or decrease the average historical loss rate to reflect expectations of future losses given economic forecasts of key macroeconomic variables including, but not limited to, unemployment rate, GDP, commercial real estate price index, consumer sentiment and construction spending. The adjustments are based on results from various regression models projecting the impact of the macroeconomic variables to loss rates. The forecast is used for a reasonable and supportable period before reverting to historical averages using a straight-line method. The forecast-adjusted loss rate is applied to the principal balance over the remaining contractual lives, adjusted for expected prepayments. The contractual term excludes expected extensions, renewals and modifications. Additionally, the allowance for credit losses considers other qualitative factors not included in historical loss rates or macroeconomic forecasts such as changes in portfolio composition, underwriting practices, or significant unique events or conditions.

Previous wording

SeeNote 3 “Loans and Allowance for Credit Losses” to the accompanying financial statements for additional information regarding the allowance for credit losses. Inherent in this process is the evaluation of individual significant credit relationships. From time to time, certain credit relationships may deteriorate due to payment performance, cash flow of the borrower, value of collateral, or other factors. In these instances, management may revise its loss estimates and assumptions for these specific credits due to changing circumstances. In some cases, additional losses may be realized; in other instances, the factors that led to the deterioration may improve or the credit may be refinanced elsewhere and allocated allowances may be released from the particular credit.

Current wording

SeeNote 3 “Loans and Allowance for Credit Losses” to the accompanying financial statements for additional information regarding the allowance for credit losses. Inherent in this process is the evaluation and risk assessment of individual credit relationships. From time to time, certain credit relationships may deteriorate due to changes in payment performance, cash flow of the borrower, value of collateral, or other factors. Due to these changing circumstances, management may revise its loss estimates and assumptions for these specific credits. In some cases, losses may be realized; in other instances, the factors that led to the deterioration may improve or the credit may be refinanced elsewhere and allocated allowances may be released from the particular credit.

Previous wording

Goodwill and intangible assets that have indefinite useful lives are subject to an impairment test at least annually and more frequently if circumstances indicate their value may not be recoverable. Goodwill is tested for impairment using a process that estimates the fair value of each of the Company’s reporting units compared with its carrying value. The Company defines reporting units as a level below each of its operating segments for which there is discrete financial information that is regularly reviewed. As of December 31, 2023, the Company has one reporting unit to which goodwill has been allocated – the Bank. If the fair value of a reporting unit exceeds its carrying value, then no impairment is recorded. If the carrying value amount exceeds the fair value of a reporting unit,

Current wording

Goodwill and intangible assets that have indefinite useful lives are subject to an impairment test at least annually and more frequently if circumstances indicate their value may not be recoverable. Goodwill is tested for impairment using a process that estimates the fair value of each of the Company’s reporting units compared with its carrying value. The Company defines reporting units as a level below each of its operating segments for which there is discrete financial information that is regularly reviewed. As of December 31, 2024, the Company had one reporting unit to which goodwill has been allocated – the Bank. If the fair value of a reporting unit exceeds its carrying value, then no impairment is recorded. If the carrying value exceeds the fair value of a reporting unit, further testing is completed comparing the implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill to its carrying value to measure the amount of impairment. Intangible assets that are not amortized are tested for impairment at least annually by comparing the fair values of those assets to their carrying values. At December 31, 2024, goodwill consisted of $5.4 million at the Bank reporting unit, which included goodwill of $4.2 million that was recorded during 2016 related to the acquisition of 12 branches and the assumption of related deposits in the St. Louis market. Other identifiable deposit intangible assets that are subject to amortization are amortized on a straight-line basis over a period of seven years and have been fully amortized.

Previous wording

further testing is completed comparing the implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill to its carrying value to measure the amount of impairment. Intangible assets that are not amortized will be tested for impairment at least annually by comparing the fair values of those assets to their carrying values. At December 31, 2023, goodwill consisted of $5.4 million at the Bank reporting unit, which included goodwill of $4.2 million that was recorded during 2016 related to the acquisition of 12 branches and related deposits in the St. Louis market. Other identifiable deposit intangible assets that are subject to amortization are amortized on a straight-line basis over a period of seven years. In April 2022, the Company, through its subsidiary Great Southern Bank, entered into a naming rights agreement with Missouri State University related to the main arena on the university’s campus in Springfield, Missouri. The terms of the agreement provide the naming rights to Great Southern Bank for a total cost of $5.5 million, to be paid over a period of seven years. The Company expects to amortize the naming rights intangible assets through non-interest expense over a period not to exceed 15 years. At December 31, 2023, the amortizable intangible assets consisted of the arena naming rights of $5.1 million. The amortizable intangible assets are reviewed for impairment if circumstances indicate their value may not be recoverable based on a comparison of fair value. SeeNote 1 to the accompanying audited financial statements for additional information.

Current wording

In April 2022, the Company, through its subsidiary Great Southern Bank, entered into a naming rights agreement with Missouri State University related to the main arena on the university’s campus in Springfield, Missouri. The terms of the agreement provide the naming rights to Great Southern Bank for a total cost of $5.5 million, to be paid over a period of seven years. The Company expects to amortize the naming rights intangible assets through non-interest expense over a period not to exceed 15 years.

Previous wording

Additionally, the Federal Reserve acted decisively by slashing its benchmark interest rate to near zero and ensuring credit availability to businesses, households, and municipal governments. The Federal Reserve’s efforts largely insulated the financial system from the problems in the economy, a significant difference from the financial crisis of 2007-2008. Purchases of Treasury and agency mortgage-backed securities totaling $120 billion each month by the Federal Reserve commenced shortly after the pandemic began. In November 2021, the Federal Reserve began to taper its quantitative easing (QE), winding down its bond purchases with its final open market purchase conducted on March 9, 2022. The federal government deficit was $2.8 trillion in fiscal 2021, close to $1.38 trillion in fiscal 2022, and was expected to increase slightly to $1.4 trillion in fiscal 2023.

Current wording

Additionally, the Federal Reserve acted decisively by slashing its benchmark interest rate to near zero and ensuring credit availability to businesses, households, and municipal governments. The Federal Reserve’s efforts largely insulated the financial system from the problems in the economy, a significant difference from the financial crisis of 2007-2008. Purchases of Treasury and agency mortgage-backed securities totaling $120 billion each month by the Federal Reserve commenced shortly after the pandemic began. In November 2021, the Federal Reserve began to taper its quantitative easing (QE), winding down its bond purchases with its final open market purchase conducted on March 9, 2022. The federal government deficit was $2.8 trillion in fiscal 2021, close to $1.4 trillion in fiscal 2022, and $1.7 trillion in fiscal 2023. The Federal Reserve aggressively raised the federal funds interest rates from early 2022 through mid-2023, pushing the federal funds rate to more than 5.50%, its highest level in 22 years.

Previous wording

COVID-related shutdowns and clogged transportation systems. The Fed has made some headway in its attempt to force inflation down. The personal consumption expenditures (PCE) price index, the Federal Reserve’s preferred measure of inflation, eased from its peak of 7.1% in June 2022 to 2.6% in November 2023, but core PCE, which excludes food and energy prices, has been slower to retreat and still sat at 3.2% at December 2023, well above the Federal Reserve’s target of 2.0%.

Current wording

The Federal Reserve’s actions were motivated by surging inflation in 2021 caused by pandemic-fueled spending, which outpaced the ability of producers to supply goods and services after having been impacted by COVID-related shutdowns and clogged transportation systems. The Federal Reserve made some headway in its attempt to force inflation down. The personal consumption expenditures (PCE) price index, the Federal Reserve’s preferred measure of inflation, eased from its peak of 7.1% in June 2022 to 2.9% in December 2023. Core PCE, which excludes food and energy prices, was 2.8% at December 31, 2024, above the Federal Reserve’s target of 2%.

Previous wording

As of December 2023, the labor force participation rate (the share of working-age Americans employed or actively looking for a job) remained stable at 62.5%. The unemployment rate for the Midwest, where the Company conducts most of its business, increased from 3.5% in December 2022 to 3.7% in December 2023. Unemployment rates for December 2023 in the states where the Company has a branch or loan production office were Arizona at 4.3%, Arkansas at 3.4%, Colorado at 3.4%, Georgia at 3.4%, Illinois at 4.8%, Iowa at 3.2%, Kansas at 2.8%, Minnesota at 2.9%, Missouri at 3.3%, Nebraska at 2.3%, North Carolina at 3.5%, Oklahoma at 3.4%, and Texas at 4.0%. Of the metropolitan areas in which the Company does business, most were below the national unemployment rate for December 2023 of 3.7%, except for Chicago at 4.3%.

Current wording

As of December 2024, the labor force participation rate (the share of working-age Americans employed or actively looking for a job) remained stable at 62.5%. The unemployment rate for the Midwest, where the Company conducts most of its business, increased from 3.6% in December 2023 to 4.1% in December 2024. Unemployment rates for December 2024 in the states where the Company has a branch or a loan production office were: Arizona at 3.8%, Arkansas at 3.4%, Colorado at 4.4%, Georgia at 3.7%, Illinois at 5.2%, Iowa at 3.2%, Kansas at 3.6%, Minnesota at 3.3%, Missouri at 3.7%, Nebraska at 2.8%, North Carolina at 3.7%, and Texas at 4.2%. These rates are slightly higher for a majority of the states compared to September 2024.

Previous wording

Existing home sales decreased 1.0% in December 2023 to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 3.78 million, down 6.2% from the previous year. In the Midwest, existing-home sales retracted 4.3% from November 2023 to an annual rate of 900,000 in December 2023, down 10.9% from one year ago.

Current wording

Existing-home sales increased by 2.2% in December 2024 to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.24 million, up 9.3% from the previous year. In the Midwest, existing-home sales fell 1.0% in December 2024 to an annual rate of 990,000, up 6.5% from one year earlier.

Previous wording

Total housing inventory registered at the end of December 2023 was 1.0 million units, down 11.5% from November 2023 and up 4.2% from one year ago of 960,000. Unsold inventory sat at a 3.2 month supply in December 2023, down from 3.5 months in November 2023 but up from 2.9 months in December 2022.

Current wording

Total housing inventory registered at the end of December 2024 was 1.15 million units, down 13.5% from November 2024 and up 16.2% from 1.0 million at the end of December 2023. Unsold inventory sat at a 3.3-month supply at the end of December 2024, up from 3.1 months at the end of December 2023.

Previous wording

Nationally, properties on average remained on the market for 29 days in December 2023, up from 25 days in November 2023 and 26 days in December 2022. Fifty-six percent of homes sold in December 2023 were on the market for less than a month. New home construction dropped precipitously after the financial crisis of 2007-2008 and has yet to fully recover. Issues contributing to the country’s current housing shortage include increasing labor and materials costs, availability of building materials, increased interest rates and tighter lending underwriting standards.

Current wording

New home construction dropped precipitously after the financial crisis of 2007-2008 and has yet to fully recover. Issues contributing to the country’s current housing shortage include increasing labor and materials costs, availability of building materials, increased interest rates and tighter lending underwriting standards. Single-family housing starts in December 2024 were at a rate of 1.05 million; 3.3% above the revised November 2024 figure of 1.02 million.

Previous wording

Sales of new single‐family houses in December 2023 were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 664,000, according to the U.S. Census Bureau and the Department of Housing and Urban Development. This is 8.0% above the revised November 2023 rate of 615,000 and 4.4% above the December 2022 rate of 636,000.

Current wording

Sales of new single‐family houses in December 2024 were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 698,000, according to the U.S. Census Bureau and the Department of Housing and Urban Development. This was 3.6% above the November 2024 rate of 674,000 and 6.7% above the December 2023 rate of 654,000.

Previous wording

The median sales price of new houses sold in December 2023 was $413,200, down from $479,500 in December 2022. The average sales price in December 2023 of $487,300 was down from $568,700 in December 2022. The seasonally‐adjusted estimate of new houses for sale at the end of December 2023 was 453,000. This represents a supply of 8.2 months at the current sales rate.

Current wording

The median sales price of new houses sold in December 2024 was $427,000, in line with the $428,600 reported in December 2023. The average sales price in December 2024 of $513,600 was down from $514,000 in December 2023. The seasonally‐adjusted estimate of new houses for sale at the end of December 2024 was 494,000. This represented a supply of 8.5 months at the current sales rate.

Previous wording

According to Freddie Mac, the average commitment rate for a 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage was 6.60% as of January 18, 2024 which is down from 6.66% the previous week and up from 6.15% one year ago.

Current wording

According to Freddie Mac, the average commitment rate for a 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage was 6.95% as of January 31, 2025 which was up from 6.63% one year ago.

Previous wording

Multi-Family Housing and Commercial Real Estate

Current wording

Other Residential (Multi-Family) Housing and Commercial Real Estate

Previous wording

As noted above, as of December 31, 2023, national multi-family market vacancy rates increased to 7.6%. Our market areas reflected the following apartment vacancy levels as of December 2023: Springfield, Missouri at 4.8%, St. Louis at 10.3%, Kansas City at 8.5%, Minneapolis at 7.6%, Tulsa, Oklahoma at 8.3%, Dallas-Fort Worth at 10.4%, Chicago at 5.7%, Atlanta at 11.7%, Phoenix at 10.8%, Denver at 8.3% and Charlotte, North Carolina at 11.6%.

Current wording

The December 2024 national multi-family market vacancy rates were slightly higher than the previous quarter at 8%. Our market areas reflected the following apartment vacancy levels as of December 2024: Springfield, Missouri at 5.9%, St. Louis at 9.9%, Kansas City at 8.1%, Minneapolis at 7.6%, Dallas-Fort Worth at 11.2%, Chicago at 5.1%, Atlanta at 12.4%, Phoenix at 11.7%, Denver at 11.1% and Charlotte, North Carolina at 12.6%.

Previous wording

As of December 31, 2023, national office vacancy rates increased to 13.6% from 12.7% as of December 31, 2022, while our market areas reflected the following vacancy levels at December 31, 2023: Springfield, Missouri at 4.2%, St. Louis at 10.6%, Kansas City at 12.0%, Minneapolis at 11.2%, Tulsa, Oklahoma at 10.7%, Dallas-Fort Worth at 17.8%, Chicago at 16.6%, Atlanta at 15.7%, Denver at 16.3%, Phoenix at 16.0% and Charlotte, North Carolina at 13.7%.

Current wording

As of December 2024, national office vacancy rates remained stable at 13.9% compared to September 2024, while our market areas reflected the following vacancy levels: Springfield, Missouri at 4.2%, St. Louis at 9.7%, Kansas City at 11.2%, Minneapolis at 11.5%, Dallas-Fort Worth at 18%, Chicago at 16.7%, Atlanta at 16.7%, Denver at 17.2%, Phoenix at 16.7% and Charlotte, North Carolina at 14.5%.

Previous wording

During the fourth quarter of 2023, national retail vacancy rates remained steady at 4.1% while our market areas reflected the following vacancy levels: Springfield, Missouri at 3.2%, St. Louis at 4.6%, Kansas City at 4.1%, Minneapolis at 2.9%, Tulsa, Oklahoma at 2.8%, Dallas-Fort Worth at 4.5%, Chicago at 4.9%, Atlanta at 3.5%, Phoenix at 4.5%, Denver at 4.0%, and Charlotte, North Carolina at 2.7%.

Current wording

During the fourth quarter of 2024, national retail vacancy rates remained steady at 4.1% while our market areas reflected the following vacancy levels: Springfield, Missouri at 2.0%, St. Louis at 4.2%, Kansas City at 3.8%, Minneapolis at 2.5%, Dallas-Fort Worth at 4.5%, Chicago at 4.6%, Atlanta at 3.8%, Phoenix at 4.9%, Denver at 3.8%, and Charlotte, North Carolina at 3.1%.

Previous wording

For the fourth quarter of 2023, national industrial vacancy rates increased to 5.9% from 4.2% as of December 31, 2022. Our market areas reflected the following industrial vacancy levels at December 31, 2023: Springfield, Missouri at 1.8%, St. Louis at 4.7%, Kansas City at 5.2%, Minneapolis at 3.9%, Tulsa, Oklahoma at 2.9%, Dallas-Fort Worth at 8.9%, Chicago at 5.1%, Atlanta at 6.4%, Phoenix at 8.6%, Denver at 7.1% and Charlotte, North Carolina at 6.7%.

Current wording

For the fourth quarter of 2024, national industrial vacancy rates increased to 6.9%, from 6.8% for the third quarter of 2024. Our market areas reflected the following industrial vacancy levels for the fourth quarter of 2024: Springfield, Missouri at 1.6%, St. Louis at 4.0%, Kansas City at 5.2%, Minneapolis at 4.0%, Dallas-Fort Worth at 9.6%, Chicago at 5.5%, Atlanta at 8.1%, Phoenix at 12%, Denver at 7.9% and Charlotte, North Carolina at 9.2%.

Previous wording

Our management will continue to monitor regional, national, and global economic indicators such as unemployment, GDP, housing starts and prices, consumer sentiment, commercial real estate price index and commercial real estate occupancy, absorption and rental rates, as these could significantly affect customers in each of our market area.

Current wording

Our management will continue to monitor regional, national, and global economic indicators such as unemployment, GDP, housing starts and prices, consumer sentiment, commercial real estate price index and commercial real estate occupancy, absorption and rental rates, as these could significantly affect customers in each of our market areas.

Previous wording

The Company’s total assets increased $131.7 million, or 2.3%, from $5.68 billion at December 31, 2022, to $5.81 billion at December 31, 2023. Full details of the current year changes in total assets are provided below, under “Comparison of Financial Condition at December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022.”

Current wording

The Company’s total assets increased $169.2 million, or 2.9%, from $5.81 billion at December 31, 2023, to $5.98 billion at December 31, 2024. Full details of the current year changes in total assets are provided below, under “Comparison of Financial Condition at December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023.”

Previous wording

Loans. In the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company’s net loans increased $82.8 million, or 1.8%, from $4.51 billion at December 31, 2022, to $4.59 billion at December 31, 2023. This increase was primarily in other residential (multi-family) loans ($160 million increase) and commercial business loans ($25 million increase). These increases were partially offset by decreases in construction loans ($61 million decrease) and one- to four- family residential loans ($13 million decrease). The pipeline of loan commitments and the unfunded portion of construction loans remained strong at the end of 2023, but decreased significantly compared to the end of 2022. As construction projects were completed, the related loans were either paid off or moved from the construction category to the appropriate permanent loan categories. As loan demand is affected by a variety of factors, including general economic conditions, and because of the competition we face and our focus on pricing discipline and credit quality, we cannot be assured that our loan growth will match or exceed the average level of growth achieved in prior years. The Company’s strategy continues to be focused on maintaining credit risk and interest rate risk at appropriate levels.

Current wording

Loans. In the year ended December 31, 2024, the Company’s net loans increased $100.8 million, or 2.2%, from $4.59 billion at December 31, 2023, to $4.69 billion at December 31, 2024. This increase was primarily in other residential (multi-family) loans ($607.2 million increase), which was partially offset by decreases in construction loans ($358.7 million decrease), commercial business loans ($109.1 million decrease), and one- to four- family residential loans ($57.2 million decrease). The pipeline of loan commitments remained strong at the end of 2024 and increased slightly compared to the end of 2023. The pipeline of the unfunded portion of construction loans remained strong at the end of 2024 and decreased slightly compared to the end of 2023. As construction projects were completed, the related loans were either paid off or moved from the construction category to the appropriate permanent loan categories. As loan demand is affected by a variety of factors, including general economic conditions, and because of the competition we face and our focus on pricing discipline and credit quality, no assurance can be given that our loan growth will match or exceed the average level of growth achieved in prior years. The Company’s strategy continues to be focused on maintaining credit risk and interest rate risk at appropriate levels.

Previous wording

Recent growth has occurred in some loan types, primarily other residential (multi-family) and commercial business, and in most of Great Southern’s primary lending locations, including Springfield, St. Louis, Kansas City, Des Moines and Minneapolis, as well as our loan production offices in Atlanta, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Omaha, Phoenix and Tulsa. Certain minimum underwriting standards and monitoring help assure the Company’s portfolio quality. Great Southern’s loan committee reviews and approves all new loan originations in excess of lender approval authorities. Generally, the Company considers commercial construction, consumer, other residential (multi-family) and commercial real estate loans to involve a higher degree of risk compared to some other types of loans, such as first mortgage loans on one- to four-family, owner-occupied residential properties. For other residential (multi-family), commercial real estate, commercial business and construction loans, the credits are subject to an analysis of the borrower’s and guarantor’s financial condition, credit history, verification of liquid assets, collateral, market analysis and repayment ability. It has been, and continues to be, Great Southern’s practice to verify information from potential borrowers regarding assets, income or payment ability and credit ratings as applicable and as required by the authority approving the loan. To minimize construction risk, projects are monitored as construction draws are requested by comparison to budget and with progress verified through property inspections. The geographic and product diversity of collateral, equity requirements and limitations on speculative construction projects help to mitigate overall risk in these loans. Underwriting standards for all loans also include loan-to-value ratio limitations which vary depending on collateral type, debt service coverage ratios or debt payment to income ratio guidelines, where applicable, credit histories, use of guaranties and other recommended terms relating to equity requirements, amortization, and maturity. Consumer loans, other than home equity loans, are primarily secured by new and used motor vehicles and these loans are also subject to certain minimum underwriting standards to assure portfolio quality. In 2019, the Company discontinued indirect auto loan originations.

Current wording

Recent growth has occurred in some loan types, primarily other residential (multi-family) loans and in most of Great Southern’s primary lending locations, including Springfield, St. Louis, Kansas City, Des Moines and Minneapolis, as well as our loan production offices in Atlanta, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Omaha, and Phoenix. Certain minimum underwriting standards and monitoring help assure the Company’s portfolio quality. All new loan originations that exceed lender approval authorities are subject to review and approval by Great Southern’s loan committee. Generally, the Company considers commercial construction, consumer, other residential (multi-family) and commercial real estate loans to involve a higher degree of risk compared to some other types of loans, such as first mortgage loans on one- to four-family, owner-occupied residential properties. For other residential (multi-family), commercial real estate, commercial business and construction loans, the credits are subject to an analysis of the borrower’s and guarantor’s financial condition, credit history, verification of liquid assets, collateral, market analysis and repayment ability. It has been, and continues to be, Great Southern’s practice to verify information from potential borrowers regarding assets, income or payment ability and credit ratings as applicable and as required by the authority approving the loan. To minimize construction risk, projects are monitored as construction draws are requested by comparison to budget and with progress verified through property inspections. The geographic and product diversity of collateral, equity requirements and limitations on speculative construction projects help to mitigate overall risk in these loans. Underwriting standards for all loans also include loan-to-value ratio limitations, which vary depending on collateral type, debt service coverage ratios or debt payment to income ratio guidelines, where applicable, credit histories, use of guaranties and other recommended terms relating to equity requirements, amortization, and maturity. Consumer loans, other than home equity loans, are primarily secured by new or used motor vehicles and these loans are subject to underwriting standards designed to assure portfolio quality. In 2019, the Company discontinued indirect auto loan originations.

Previous wording

Of the total loan portfolio at December 31, 2023 and 2022, 89.5% and 89.4%, respectively, was secured by real estate, as this is the Bank’s primary focus in its lending efforts. At December 31, 2023 and 2022, commercial real estate and commercial construction loans (excluding multi-family loans) were 36.8% and 39.4% of the Bank’s total loan portfolio, respectively. Commercial real estate and commercial construction loans generally afford the Bank an opportunity to increase the yield on, and the proportion of interest rate sensitive loans in, its portfolio. They do, however, present somewhat greater risk to the Bank because they may be more adversely affected by conditions in the real estate markets or in the economy generally. At December 31, 2023, loans made in the Springfield, Missouri metropolitan statistical area (Springfield MSA) comprised 8% of the Bank’s total loan portfolio, compared to 7% at December 31, 2022. The Company’s headquarters are located in Springfield and we have operated in this market since 1923. Loans made in the St. Louis metropolitan statistical area (St. Louis MSA) comprised 17% of the Bank’s total loan portfolio at December 31, 2023, compared to 18% at December 31, 2022. The Company’s expansion into the St. Louis MSA beginning in May 2009 has provided an opportunity to not only diversify from the Springfield MSA, but also has provided access to a larger economy with increased lending opportunities despite higher levels of competition. Loans made in the St. Louis MSA are primarily commercial real estate, commercial business and other residential (multi-family) loans, which are less likely to be impacted by the higher levels of unemployment rates, as mentioned above under “Current Economic Conditions,” than if the focus were on one- to four-family residential and consumer loans. For further discussions of the Bank’s loan portfolio, and specifically, commercial real estate and commercial construction loans, see “Item 1. Business – Lending Activities.”

Current wording

Of the total loan portfolio at December 31, 2024 and 2023, 92.1% and 89.5%, respectively, was secured by real estate, as this is the Bank’s primary focus in its lending efforts. At December 31, 2024 and 2023, commercial real estate and commercial construction loans (excluding multi-family loans) were 36.1% and 36.8% of the Bank’s total loan portfolio, respectively. Commercial real estate and commercial construction loans generally afford the Bank an opportunity to increase the yield on, and the proportion of interest rate sensitive loans in, its portfolio. They do, however, present somewhat greater risk to the Bank because they may be more adversely affected by conditions in the real estate markets or in the economy generally. At both December 31, 2024 and 2023, loans made in the Springfield, Missouri metropolitan statistical area (Springfield MSA) comprised 8% of the Bank’s total loan portfolio. The Company’s headquarters are located in Springfield and we have operated in this market since 1923. Loans made in the St. Louis metropolitan statistical area (St. Louis MSA) comprised 17% of the Bank’s total loan portfolio at both December 31, 2024 and 2023. The Company’s expansion into the St. Louis MSA, beginning in May 2009, has provided an opportunity to not only diversify from the Springfield MSA, but also has provided access to a larger economy with increased lending opportunities despite higher levels of competition. Loans made in the St. Louis MSA are primarily commercial real estate, commercial business and other residential (multi-family) loans, which are less likely to be impacted by the higher levels of unemployment rates, as mentioned above under “Current Economic Conditions,” than if the focus were on one- to four-family residential and consumer loans. For further discussions of the Bank’s loan portfolio, and specifically, commercial real estate and commercial construction loans, see “Item 1. Business – Lending Activities.”

Previous wording

The percentage of fixed-rate loans in our loan portfolio has been as much as 40% in recent years and was 39% as of December 31, 2023. The majority of the increase in fixed rate loans over the past few years was in commercial real estate, which typically has short durations within our portfolio. Of the total amount of fixed rate loans in our portfolio as of December 31, 2023, approximately 86% mature within the next five years and therefore are not considered to create significant long-term interest rate risk for the Company. Fixed rate loans make up only a portion of our balance sheet and our overall interest rate risk strategy. As of December 31, 2023, our interest rate risk models indicated a one-year interest rate earnings sensitivity position that is modestly positive in an increasing rate environment. For further discussion of our interest rate sensitivity gap and the processes used to manage our exposure to interest rate risk, see “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk – How We Measure the Risks to Us Associated with Interest Rate Changes.” For discussion of the risk factors associated with interest rate changes, see “Risk Factors – We may be adversely affected by interest rate changes.”

Current wording

The percentage of fixed-rate loans in our loan portfolio has been as much as 40% in recent years and was 37% as of December 31, 2024. The majority of the increase in fixed rate loans over the past few years was in commercial real estate, which typically has short durations within our portfolio. Of the total amount of fixed rate loans in our portfolio as of December 31, 2024, approximately 90% mature within the next five years and therefore are not considered to create significant long-term interest rate risk for the Company. Fixed rate loans make up only a portion of our balance sheet and our overall interest rate risk strategy. As of December 31, 2024, our interest rate risk models indicated a one-year interest rate earnings sensitivity position that is modestly positive in an increasing rate environment. For further discussion of our interest rate sensitivity gap and the processes used to manage our exposure to interest rate risk, see “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk – How We Measure the Risks to Us Associated with Interest Rate Changes.” For discussion of the risk factors associated with interest rate changes, see “Risk Factors – We may be adversely affected by interest rate changes.”

Previous wording

While our policy allows us to lend up to 95% of the appraised value on one-to four-family residential properties, originations of loans with loan-to-value ratios at that level are minimal. Private mortgage insurance is typically required for loan amounts above the 80% level. Few exceptions occur and would be based on analyses which determined minimal transactional risk to be involved. We consider these lending practices to be consistent with or more conservative than what we believe to be the norm for banks our size. At December 31, 2023 and 2022, 0.2% of our owner occupied one- to four-family residential loans had loan-to-value ratios above 100% at origination. At December 31, 2023 and 2022, an estimated 0.4% and 0.2%, respectively, of total non-owner occupied one- to four-family residential loans had loan-to-value ratios above 100% at origination.

Current wording

While our policy allows us to lend up to 95% of the appraised value on one-to four-family residential properties, originations of loans with loan-to-value ratios at that level are minimal. Private mortgage insurance is typically required for loan amounts above the 80% level. Few exceptions occur and would be based on analyses which determined minimal transactional risk to be involved. We consider these lending practices to be consistent with or more conservative than what we believe to be the norm for banks our size. At December 31, 2024 and 2023, 0.2% of our owner occupied one- to four-family residential loans had loan-to-value ratios above 100% at origination. At December 31, 2024 and 2023, an estimated 0.4%, of total non-owner occupied one- to four-family residential loans had loan-to-value ratios above 100% at origination.

Previous wording

Available-for-sale Securities. Available-for-sale securities decreased $12.4 million, or 2.5%, from $490.6 million at December 31, 2022, to $478.2 million at December 31, 2023. For further information on investment securities, seeNote 2 to the accompanying financial statements contained in this Report.

Current wording

Held-to-maturity Securities. Held-to-maturity securities decreased $7.6 million, or 3.9%, from $195.0 million at December 31, 2023, to $187.4 million at December 31, 2024. For further information on investment securities, seeNote 2 to the accompanying financial statements contained in this Report.

Previous wording

Deposits. The Company attracts deposit accounts through its retail branch network, correspondent banking and corporate services areas, internet channels and brokered deposits. The Company then utilizes these deposit funds, along with FHLBank advances and other borrowings, to meet loan demand or otherwise fund its activities. In the year ended December 31, 2023, total deposit balances increased $36.8 million, or 0.8%. Transaction account balances decreased $140.1 million and retail certificates of deposit decreased $73.1 million compared to December 31, 2022. The decrease in transaction accounts was primarily a result of decreased balances in non-interest accounts and certain NOW account types. In addition, holders of some accounts that carried higher balances may have chosen to move funds into different checking account types or time deposits that now have a higher rate of interest. Retail certificates of deposit decreased due to a decrease in retail certificates generated through the banking center network and time deposits initiated through internet channels, which experienced a planned decrease as part of the Company’s balance sheet management between funding sources. Brokered deposits, including IntraFi program purchased funds, were $661.5 million at December 31, 2023, an increase of $250.0 million from $411.5 million at December 31, 2022. The Company uses brokered deposits of select maturities and interest rate characteristics from time to time to supplement its various funding channels and to manage interest rate risk.

Current wording

Deposits. The Company attracts deposit accounts through its retail branch network, correspondent banking and corporate services areas, internet channels and brokered deposits. The Company then utilizes these deposit funds, along with FHLBank advances and other borrowings, to meet loan demand or otherwise fund its activities. In the year ended December 31, 2024, total deposit balances decreased $116.2 million, or 2.5%. Compared to December 31, 2023, transaction account balances decreased $54.3 million and retail certificates of deposit decreased $172.4 million. The decrease in transaction accounts was primarily a result of a decrease in non-interest-bearing accounts and various NOW accounts, as small businesses and individuals appear to be drawing down their balances to pay for goods and services, or are seeking a higher-yielding alternative. Retail certificates of deposit decreased due to a decrease in retail certificates generated through the banking center network and time deposits initiated through internet channels, which experienced a planned decrease as part of the Company’s balance sheet management between funding sources. Brokered deposits, including IntraFi program purchased funds, were $772.1 million at December 31, 2024, an increase of $110.6 million from $661.5 million at December 31, 2023. The Company uses brokered deposits of select maturities and interest rate characteristics from time to time to supplement its various funding channels and to manage interest rate risk.

Previous wording

Our deposit balances may fluctuate depending on customer preferences and our relative need for funding. We do not consider our retail certificates of deposit to be guaranteed long-term funding because customers can withdraw their funds at any time with minimal interest penalty. When loan demand trends upward, we can increase rates paid on deposits to attract more deposits and utilize brokered deposits to provide additional funding. The level of competition for deposits in our markets is high. It is our goal to gain deposit market share, particularly checking accounts, in our branch footprint. To accomplish this goal, increasing rates to attract deposits may be necessary, which could negatively impact the Company’s net interest margin.

Current wording

Our deposit balances may fluctuate depending on customer preferences and our relative need for funding. We do not consider our retail certificates of deposit to be guaranteed long-term funding because customers can withdraw their funds at any time with minimal interest penalty. When loan demand trends upward, we can increase rates paid on deposits to attract more deposits and utilize brokered deposits to generate additional funding. The level of competition for deposits in our markets is high. It is our goal to gain deposit market share, particularly checking accounts, in our branch footprint. To accomplish this goal, increasing rates to attract deposits may be necessary, which could negatively impact the Company’s net interest margin.

Previous wording

Securities sold under reverse repurchase agreements with customers*.* Securities sold under reverse repurchase agreements with customers decreased $106.0 million from $176.8 million at December 31, 2022 to $70.8 million at December 31, 2023. These balances fluctuate over time based on customer demand for this product.

Current wording

Securities sold under reverse repurchase agreements with customers*.* Securities sold under reverse repurchase agreements with customers decreased $6.4 million, or 9.0%, from $70.8 million at December 31, 2023 to $64.4 million at December 31, 2024. These balances fluctuate over time based on customer demand for this product.

Previous wording

Short-Term Borrowings and Other Interest-bearing Liabilities. The Company’s FHLBank term advances were $-0- at both December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022. At December 31, 2023 and 2022, overnight borrowings from the FHLBank were $251.0 million and $88.5 million, respectively, which are included in short*-*term borrowings.

Current wording

Short-Term Borrowings and Other Interest-bearing Liabilities. The Company’s FHLBank term advances were $-0- at both December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023. At December 31, 2024 and 2023, overnight borrowings from the FHLBank were $333.0 million and $251.0 million, respectively, which are included in short-term borrowings.

Previous wording

Short*-*term borrowings and other interest-bearing liabilities increased $163.0 million from $89.6 million at December 31, 2022 to $252.6 million at December 31, 2023. The Company may utilize overnight borrowings, short-term FHLBank advances, and BTFP borrowings from FRBSTL depending on relative interest rates.

Current wording

Short-term borrowings and other interest-bearing liabilities increased $261.6 million from $252.6 million at December 31, 2023 to $514.2 million at December 31, 2024. The Company may utilize overnight borrowings and short-term FHLBank advances, depending on relative interest rates. In addition, in 2024, the Company utilized BTFP borrowings from FRBSTL.

Previous wording

The current level and shape of the interest rate yield curve poses challenges for interest rate risk management. Prior to its increase of 0.25% on December 16, 2015, the FRB had last changed interest rates on December 16, 2008. This was the first rate increase since September 29, 2006. The FRB also implemented rate change increases of 0.25% on eight additional occasions beginning December 14, 2016 and through December 31, 2018, with the Federal Funds rate reaching as high as 2.50%. After December 2018, the FRB paused its rate increases and, in July, September and October 2019, implemented rate decreases of 0.25% on each of those occasions. At December 31, 2019, the Federal Funds rate stood at 1.75%. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the FRB decreased interest rates on two occasions in March 2020, a 0.50% decrease on March 3 and a 1.00% decrease on March 16. At December 31, 2021, the Federal Funds rate was 0.25%. In 2022, the FRB implemented rate increases of 0.25%, 0.50%, 0.75%, 0.75%, 0.75%, 0.75% and

Current wording

The current level and shape of the interest rate yield curve poses challenges for interest rate risk management. Prior to its increase of 0.25% on December 16, 2015, the FRB had last changed interest rates on December 16, 2008. This was the first rate increase since September 29, 2006. The FRB also implemented rate increases of 0.25% on eight additional occasions beginning December 14, 2016 and through December 31, 2018, with the Federal Funds rate reaching as high as 2.50%. After December 2018, the FRB paused its rate increases and, in July, September and October 2019, implemented rate decreases of 0.25% on each of those occasions. At December 31, 2019, the Federal Funds rate stood at 1.75%. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the FRB decreased interest rates on two occasions in March 2020, a 0.50% decrease on March 3 and a 1.00% decrease on March 16. At December 31, 2021, the Federal Funds rate was 0.25%. In 2022, the FRB implemented rate increases of 0.25%, 0.50%, 0.75%, 0.75%, 0.75%, 0.75% and 0.50% in March, May, June, July, September, November and December 2022, respectively. At December 31, 2022, the Federal Funds rate was 4.50%. In 2023, the FRB implemented rate increases of 0.25%, 0.25%, 0.25% and 0.25% in February, March, May and July 2023, respectively. At December 31, 2023 the Federal Funds rate was 5.50%. In 2024, the FRB implemented rate decreases of 0.50%, 0.25%, and 0.25% in September, November and December, respectively. At December 31, 2024, the Federal Funds rate was 4.50%. Financial markets now expect the possibility of further decreases in Federal Funds interest rates in 2025 to be likely, but possibly cuts of only 0.50% at a methodical pace and with interest rate decisions being made at each FRB meeting based on economic data available at the time.

Previous wording

0.50% in March, May, June, July, September, November and December 2022, respectively. At December 31, 2022, the Federal Funds rate was 4.50%. In 2023, the FRB implemented rate increases of 0.25%, 0.25%, 0.25% and 0.25% in February, March, May and July 2023, respectively. At December 31, 2023 the Federal Funds rate was 5.50%. Financial markets now expect the possibility of significant further increases in Federal Funds interest rates in early 2024 to be unlikely, with interest rate decisions being made at each FRB meeting based on economic data available at the time. However, the FRB has further indicated, and financial markets now have begun to price in, that it is likely that the Federal Funds interest rate will remain near this peak level for several months before any rate cuts occur. Great Southern’s loan portfolio includes loans ($1.29 billion at December 31, 2023) tied to various SOFR indices that will be subject to adjustment at least once within 90 days after December 31, 2023. All of these loans have interest rate floors at various rates. Great Southern also has a portfolio of loans ($788.9 million at December 31, 2023) tied to a “prime rate” of interest that will adjust immediately or within 90 days of a change to the “prime rate” of interest. All of these loans had interest rate floors at various rates. Great Southern also has a portfolio of loans ($6.7 million at December 31, 2023) tied to an AMERIBOR index that will adjust immediately or within 90 days of a change to the “prime rate” of interest. All of these loans had interest rate floors at various rates. At December 31, 2023, nearly all of these SOFR and “prime rate” loans had fully indexed rates that were at or above their floor rate and so are expected to move fully with future market interest rate increases.

Current wording

Great Southern’s loan portfolio includes loans ($1.57 billion at December 31, 2024) tied to various SOFR indices that will be subject to adjustment at least once within 90 days after December 31, 2024. All of these loans have interest rate floors at various rates. Great Southern also has a portfolio of loans ($748.0 million at December 31, 2024) tied to a “prime rate” of interest that will adjust immediately or within 90 days of a change to the “prime rate” of interest. Nearly all of these loans had interest rate floors at various rates. In addition, Great Southern has a portfolio of loans ($8.6 million at December 31, 2024) tied to an AMERIBOR index that will adjust immediately or within 90 days of a change to the rate of interest on this index. All of these loans had interest rate floors at various rates. At December 31, 2024, nearly all of these SOFR, AMERIBOR and “prime rate” loans had fully-indexed rates that were at or above their floor rate and so are expected to move fully with future market interest rate increases, and most are expected to move fully with future market interest rate decreases as many of these loans have floor rates well below their current index rate.

Previous wording

A rate cut by the FRB generally would have an anticipated immediate negative impact on the Company’s net interest income due to the large total balance of loans tied to the SOFR indices or the “prime rate” index and will be subject to adjustment at least once within 90 days or loans which generally adjust immediately as the Federal Funds rate adjusts. Interest rate floors may at least partially mitigate the negative impact of interest rate decreases. Loans at their floor rates are, however, subject to the risk that borrowers will seek to refinance elsewhere at the lower market rate. There may also be a negative impact on the Company’s net interest income if the Company is unable to significantly lower its funding costs due to a highly competitive rate environment, although interest rates on assets may decline further. Conversely, market interest rate increases would normally result in increased interest rates on our SOFR-based, AMERIBOR-based and prime-based loans.

Current wording

A rate cut by the FRB generally would be expected to have an immediate negative impact on the Company’s interest income on loans due to the large total balance of loans tied to the SOFR indexes or the “prime rate” index that will be subject to adjustment at least once within 90 days or loans which generally adjust immediately as the Federal Funds rate adjusts. Interest rate floors may at least partially mitigate the negative impact of interest rate decreases. Loans at their floor rates are, however, subject to the risk that borrowers will seek to refinance elsewhere at the lower market rate. There may also be a negative impact on the Company’s net interest income if the Company is unable to significantly lower its funding costs due to a highly competitive rate environment for deposits, although interest rates on assets may decline further. Conversely, market interest rate increases would normally result in increased interest rates on our SOFR-based, AMERIBOR-based and prime-based loans.

Previous wording

As of December 31, 2023, Great Southern’s interest rate risk models indicate that, generally, rising interest rates are expected to have a modestly positive impact on the Company’s net interest income, while declining interest rates are expected to have a modestly negative impact on net interest income. We model various interest rate scenarios for rising and falling rates, including both parallel and non-parallel shifts in rates. The results of our modeling indicate that net interest income is not likely to be significantly affected either positively or negatively in the first twelve months following relatively minor changes in market interest rates because our portfolios are relatively well-matched in a twelve-month horizon.

Current wording

As of December 31, 2024, Great Southern’s interest rate risk models indicate that, generally, rising interest rates are expected to have a modestly positive impact on the Company’s net interest income, while declining interest rates are expected to have a mostly neutral impact on net interest income. Any negative impact of a falling Federal Funds rate and other market interest rates also falling could be more pronounced if we are not able to decrease non-maturity deposit rates accordingly. We model various interest rate scenarios for rising and falling rates, including both parallel and non-parallel shifts in rates. The results of our modeling indicate that net interest income is not likely to be significantly affected either positively or negatively in the first twelve months following relatively minor changes in interest rates because our portfolios are relatively well matched in a twelve-month horizon.

Previous wording

In a situation where market interest rates increase significantly in a short period of time, our net interest margin increase may be more pronounced in the very near term (first one to three months), due to fairly rapid increases in SOFR interest rates and “prime” interest rates. In a situation where market interest rates decrease significantly in a short period of time, as they did in March 2020, our net interest margin decrease may be more pronounced in the very near term (first one to three months), due to fairly rapid decreases in SOFR interest rates and “prime” interest rates. In the subsequent months, we would expect that net interest margin would stabilize and begin to improve, as renewal interest rates on maturing time deposits decrease.

Current wording

In a situation where market interest rates increase significantly in a short period of time, our net interest margin increase may be more pronounced in the very near term (first one to three months), due to fairly rapid increases in SOFR interest rates and “prime” interest rates. In a situation where market interest rates decrease significantly in a short period of time, as they did in March 2020, our net interest margin decrease may be more pronounced in the very near term (first one to three months), due to fairly rapid decreases in SOFR interest rates and “prime” interest rates. In the subsequent months, we would expect that net interest margin would stabilize and begin to recover, as renewal interest rates on maturing time deposits decrease.