Northwest Bancshares, Inc.

Previous wording

The FDIC and the other federal banking regulatory agencies have jointly promulgated the CRE Lending Guidance on sound risk management practices for financial institutions with concentrations in commercial real estate lending. Under the CRE Lending Guidance, a financial institution that, like us, is actively involved in commercial real estate lending should perform a risk assessment to identify concentrations. A financial institution may have a concentration in commercial real estate lending if, among other factors, (i) total reported loans for construction, land acquisition and development, and other land represent 100% or more of total capital, or (ii) total reported loans secured by multi-family and non-farm residential properties, loans for construction, land acquisition and development and other land, and loans otherwise sensitive to the general commercial real estate market, including loans to commercial real estate related entities, represent 300% or more of total capital. Based on these factors, we have a concentration in multi-family and commercial real estate lending, as such loans represent 357% of total bank capital as of December 31, 2024. The particular focus of the guidance is on exposure to commercial real estate loans that are dependent on the cash flow from the real estate held as collateral and that are likely to be at greater risk to conditions in the commercial real estate market (as opposed to real estate collateral held as a secondary source of repayment or as an abundance of caution). The purpose of the CRE Lending Guidance is to guide banks in developing risk management practices and capital levels commensurate with the level and nature of real estate concentrations. The CRE Lending Guidance states that management should employ heightened risk management practices including board and management oversight and strategic planning, development of underwriting standards, risk assessment and monitoring through market analysis and stress testing. While we believe we have implemented policies and procedures with respect to our commercial real estate loan portfolio consistent with this guidance, bank regulators could require us to implement additional policies and procedures consistent with their interpretation of the guidance that may result in additional costs to us or that may result in a curtailment of our multi-family and commercial real estate lending that would adversely affect our loan originations and profitability. For additional information, see “Supervision and Regulation—Federal Banking Regulation—Real Estate Lending Standards and Guidance.”

Current wording

The FDIC and the other federal banking regulatory agencies have jointly promulgated the CRE Lending Guidance on sound risk management practices for financial institutions with concentrations in commercial real estate lending. Under the CRE Lending Guidance, a financial institution that, like us, is actively involved in commercial real estate lending should perform a risk assessment to identify concentrations. A financial institution may have a concentration in commercial real estate lending if, among other factors, (i) total reported loans for construction, land acquisition and development, and other land represent 100% or more of total capital, or (ii) total reported loans secured by multi-family and non-farm residential properties, loans for construction, land acquisition and development and other land, and loans otherwise sensitive to the general commercial real estate market, including loans to commercial real estate related entities, represent 300% or more of total capital. Based on these factors, we have a concentration in residential and commercial real estate lending, as such loans represent a combined 342% of total bank capital as of December 31, 2025. The particular focus of the guidance is on exposure to commercial real estate loans that are dependent on the cash flow from the real estate held as collateral and that are likely to be at greater risk to conditions in the commercial real estate market (as opposed to real estate collateral held as a secondary source of repayment or as an abundance of caution). The purpose of the CRE Lending Guidance is to guide banks in developing risk management practices and capital levels commensurate with the level and nature of real estate concentrations. The CRE Lending Guidance states that management should employ heightened risk management practices including board and management oversight and strategic planning, development of underwriting standards, risk assessment and monitoring through market analysis and stress testing. While we believe we have implemented policies and procedures with respect to our commercial real estate loan portfolio consistent with this guidance, bank regulators could require us to implement additional policies and procedures consistent with their interpretation of the guidance that may result in additional costs to us or that may result in a curtailment of our multi-family and commercial real estate lending that would adversely affect our loan originations and profitability. For additional information, see “Supervision and Regulation—Federal Banking Regulation—Real Estate Lending Standards and Guidance.”

Previous wording

The judicial foreclosure process is protracted, which delays our ability to resolve non-performing loans through the sale of the underlying collateral. The longer timelines have been the result of the economic crisis, additional consumer protection initiatives related to the foreclosure process, increased documentary requirements and judicial scrutiny, and, both voluntary and mandatory programs under which lenders may consider loan modifications or other alternatives to foreclosure. These reasons and the legal and regulatory responses have impacted the foreclosure process and completion time of foreclosures for residential mortgage lenders. This may result in a material adverse effect on collateral values and our ability to minimize its losses.

Current wording

The judicial foreclosure process is protracted, which delays our ability to resolve non-performing loans through the sale of the underlying collateral. The longer timelines have been the result of the economic crisis, additional consumer protection initiatives related to the foreclosure process, increased documentary requirements and judicial scrutiny, and, both voluntary and mandatory programs under which lenders may consider loan modifications or other alternatives to foreclosure. These reasons and the legal and regulatory responses have impacted the foreclosure process and completion time of foreclosures for residential mortgage lenders. This may result in a material adverse effect on collateral values and our ability to minimize losses.

Previous wording

The Company and Northwest Bank operate in a highly regulated industry and are subject to extensive laws, regulation, supervision and examination by the Federal Reserve Board, the Department of Banking, the FDIC and the CFPB. These laws and regulations are imposed primarily for the protection and benefit of depositors and other customers, the DIF the U.S. banking and financial system, and the broader economy, not for the protection or benefit of the Company’s investors or non-deposit creditors. These regulatory authorities have extensive discretion in connection with their supervisory and enforcement activities, including the ability to impose restrictions on Northwest Bank’s operations, reclassify assets, determine the adequacy of Northwest Bank’s allowance for credit losses and determine the level of deposit insurance premiums assessed. The laws and regulations applicable to us are subject to frequent change and interpretations and the supervisory environment may be heightened at the regulators’ discretion. For example, the Company is unable to predict what, if any, changes to the regulatory environment may be enacted by Congress, both chambers of which became under Republican control beginning in 2025, or the new presidential administration and what the impact of any changes will be on the Company. We expect the Trump administration will seek to implement a regulatory reform agenda that is significantly different than that of the Biden administration, impacting the rulemaking, supervision, examination, and enforcement priorities of the federal banking agencies. Any change in these regulations and oversight, whether in the form of regulatory policy, new regulations or legislation or additional deposit insurance premiums could have a material impact on our operations.

Current wording

The Company and Northwest Bank operate in a highly regulated industry and are subject to extensive laws, regulation, supervision and examination by the Federal Reserve Board, the Department of Banking, the FDIC, the CFPB and the SEC. These laws and regulations are imposed primarily for the protection and benefit of depositors and other customers, the DIF the U.S. banking and financial system, and the broader economy, not for the protection or benefit of the Company’s investors or non-deposit creditors. These regulatory authorities have extensive discretion in connection with their supervisory and enforcement activities, including the ability to impose restrictions on Northwest Bank’s operations, reclassify assets, determine the adequacy of Northwest Bank’s allowance for credit losses and determine the level of deposit insurance premiums assessed. The laws and regulations applicable to us are subject to frequent change and interpretations and the supervisory environment may be heightened at the regulators’ discretion. For example, the Company is unable to predict what, if any, changes to the regulatory environment may be enacted by Congress, or the presidential administration and what the impact of any changes will be on the Company. The current U.S. administration has implemented significant changes in federal priorities and has taken steps to change the operations, structure, and policy focus of various federal agencies, as well as regulatory priorities, policy approaches and interpretations of existing laws by those federal agencies. Future changes in these regulations and oversight, whether in the form of regulatory policy, new regulations or legislation, presidential executive orders, or new interpretation or application of existing statutes and regulations by courts and government agencies, or additional deposit insurance premiums could have a material impact on our operations. It is also possible the expected changes in regulation do not occur or are reversed by a subsequent administration, or the regulatory measures that are ultimately enacted deliver significant competitive advantages to financial services that are structured differently or serve different markets than the Company and Northwest Bank

Previous wording

The BSA, as amended, and its implementing regulations require certain financial institutions, such as banks, to develop compliance programs that prevent the financial institutions from being used to facilitate money laundering, terrorist financing and other illicit financial crimes. If a financial institution detects suspicious activities, financial institutions are obligated to, among other things, file suspicious activity reports with the U.S. Treasury’s FinCEN. The BSA, as amended, and its implementing regulations also require financial institutions to establish procedures for identifying and verifying the identity of customers seeking to open accounts at the financial institution. Failure to comply with the Bank Secrecy, as amended, and its implementing regulations could result in fines or sanctions or affect our ability to pursue further acquisition opportunities. During the last year, several banking institutions have received large fines for non-compliance with the BSA, as amended, and its implementing regulations. While we have developed policies and procedures designed to promote compliance with the BSA, as amended, and its implementing regulations, these policies and procedures may not be effective in preventing violations of the law.

Current wording

The BSA, as amended, and its implementing regulations require certain financial institutions, such as banks, to develop compliance programs that prevent the financial institutions from being used to facilitate money laundering, terrorist financing and other illicit financial crimes. If a financial institution detects suspicious activities, financial institutions are obligated to, among other things, file suspicious activity reports with the U.S. Treasury’s FinCEN. The BSA, as amended, and its implementing regulations also require financial institutions to establish procedures for identifying and verifying the identity of customers seeking to open accounts at the financial institution. Failure to comply with the BSA, as amended, and its implementing regulations could result in fines or sanctions or affect our ability to pursue further acquisition opportunities. In recent years, several banking institutions have received large fines for non-compliance with the BSA, as amended, and its implementing regulations. While we have developed policies and procedures designed to promote compliance with the BSA, as amended, and its implementing regulations, these policies and procedures may not be effective in preventing violations of the law.

Previous wording

From time to time, the regulators implement changes to these regulatory capital requirements. The application of more stringent capital requirements could, among other things, result in lower returns on equity, require the raising of additional capital, and result in regulatory actions if we were to be unable to comply with such requirements. Changes to applicable capital requirements, including to asset risk weightings for risk-based capital calculations, items included or deducted in calculating regulatory capital and/or capital buffers, could result in management modifying its business strategy, and could limit our ability to make distributions, including paying out dividends or buying back shares. Furthermore, changes to the Basel III capital rules, including the implementation of Basel III endgame, that apply to banking organizations that are larger or more internationally active than the Company and Northwest may be informally applied or considered by the Federal Reserve Board and the FDIC in their regulation, supervision and examination of, and indirectly adversely impact, smaller institutions such as the Company and the Bank.

Current wording

From time to time, the regulators implement changes to these regulatory capital requirements. The application of more stringent capital requirements could, among other things, result in lower returns on equity, require the raising of additional capital, and result in regulatory actions if we were to be unable to comply with such requirements. Changes to applicable capital requirements, including to asset risk weightings for risk-based capital calculations, items included or deducted in calculating regulatory capital and/or capital buffers, could result in management modifying its business strategy, and could limit our ability to make distributions, including paying out dividends or buying back shares.

Previous wording

The Federal Reserve Board decreased benchmark interest rates significantly, to near zero, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Beginning in 2022, the Federal Reserve Board reversed its policy of near zero interest rates given its concerns over inflation. Market interest rates have risen significantly in response to the Federal Reserve Board’s rate increases. Although they have decreased since late 2023 in response to the Federal Reserve Board’s rate decreases, they remain at historically high levels. As discussed below, the increase in market interest rates has had, and may continue to have, an adverse effect on our net interest income and profitability.

Current wording

Beginning in 2022, the Federal Reserve Board reversed its historical policy of near zero interest rates in an effort to curb inflation. Market interest rates have risen significantly in response to the Federal Reserve Board’s rate increases. In late 2023, the Federal Reserve Board began lowering benchmark interest rates, and although interest rates have decreased as a result, they remain at historically high levels. As discussed below, the increase in market interest rates has had, and may continue to have, an adverse effect on our net interest income and profitability.

Previous wording

Changes in interest rates also affect the current fair value of our interest-earning investment securities portfolio. Generally, the value of securities moves inversely with changes in interest rates. At December 31, 2024, the fair value of our investment and mortgage-backed securities portfolio totaled $1.7 billion. Net unrealized losses on these securities totaled $282 million at December 31, 2024. During the year ended December 31, 2024, we incurred other comprehensive lossof $6 million related to net changes in unrealized holding losses in the available-for-sale investment securities portfolio.

Current wording

Changes in interest rates also affect the current fair value of our interest-earning investment securities portfolio. Generally, the value of securities moves inversely with changes in interest rates. At December 31, 2025, the fair value of our investment and mortgage-backed securities portfolio totaled $2.2 billion. Net unrealized losses on these securities totaled $202 million at December 31, 2025. During the year ended December 31, 2025, we incurred other comprehensive incomeof $34 million related to net changes in unrealized holding losses in the available-for-sale investment securities portfolio.

Previous wording

The current level of, or any increases in market interest rates may reduce our mortgage banking income. We generate revenues primarily from gains on the sale of mortgage loans to investors, and from the amortization of deferred mortgage servicing rights. We recognized noninterest income of $2 million on mortgage banking activities during the year ended December 31, 2024. We also earn interest on loans held for sale while awaiting delivery to our investors. In a rising or higher interest rate environment, our mortgage loan originations may decrease, resulting in fewer loans that are available for sale. This would result in a decrease in interest income and a decrease in revenues from loan sales. In addition, our results of operations are affected by the amount of noninterest expense associated with mortgage banking activities, such as salaries and employee benefits, occupancy, equipment, data processing and other operating costs. During periods of reduced loan demand, our results of operations may be adversely affected to the extent that we are unable to reduce expenses commensurate with the decline in mortgage loan origination activity.

Current wording

The current level of, or any increases in market interest rates may reduce our mortgage banking income. We generate revenues primarily from gains on the sale of mortgage loans to investors, and from the amortization of deferred mortgage servicing rights. We recognized noninterest income of $3 million on mortgage banking activities during the year ended December 31, 2025. We also earn interest on loans held for sale while awaiting delivery to our investors. In a rising or higher interest rate environment, our mortgage loan originations may decrease, resulting in fewer loans that are available for sale. This would result in a decrease in interest income and a decrease in revenues from loan sales. In addition, our results of operations are affected by the amount of noninterest expense associated with mortgage banking activities, such as salaries and employee benefits, occupancy, equipment, data processing and other operating costs. During periods of reduced loan demand, our results of operations may be adversely affected to the extent that we are unable to reduce expenses commensurate with the decline in mortgage loan origination activity.

Previous wording

On occasion we have employed various financial methodologies that limit, or “hedge,” the adverse effects of rising or decreasing interest rates on our loan portfolios and short-term liabilities. We also engage in hedging strategies with respect to arrangements with our customers. Our hedging activity varies based on the level and volatility of interest rates and other changing market conditions. Hedging strategies can be imperfect and may fail to protect us from loss. Moreover, hedging activities could result in costs if the hedge proves to be ineffective. Additionally, hedging activities could fail to protect us or adversely affect us because, among other things:

Current wording

On occasion we have employed various financial methodologies that limit, or “hedge,” the adverse effects of rising or decreasing interest rates on our loan portfolios and short-term liabilities. We also engage in hedging strategies with respect to arrangements with our customers. Our hedging activity varies based on the level and volatility of interest rates and other changing market conditions.

Previous wording

Our performance is significantly impacted by the general economic conditions in our primary markets in Pennsylvania, New York, Ohio, and Indiana. At December 31, 2024, 36% of our loan portfolio was secured by properties located in Pennsylvania, and 16% of our loan portfolio was secured by properties located in New York, with a large portion of the rest of our loans secured by real estate located in Ohio and Indiana. Local economic conditions have a significant impact on the ability of our borrowers to repay loans and the value of the collateral securing loans.

Current wording

Our performance is significantly impacted by the general economic conditions in our primary markets in Pennsylvania, New York, Ohio, and Indiana. At December 31, 2025, 39% of our loan portfolio was secured by properties located in Pennsylvania, and 10% of our loan portfolio was secured by properties located in New York, with a large portion of the rest of our loans secured by real estate located in Ohio and Indiana. Local economic conditions have a significant impact on the ability of our borrowers to repay loans and the value of the collateral securing loans.

Previous wording

The monetary policies of the Federal Reserve Board have had a significant effect on the operating results of financial institutions in the past and are expected to continue to do so in the future. The effects of such policies upon our business, financial condition and results of operations cannot be predicted.

Current wording

The monetary policies of the Federal Reserve Board have had a significant effect on the operating results of financial institutions in the past and are expected to continue to do so in the future. New appointments to the Federal Reserve Board could affect its monetary policies, and in turn, interest rates. The effects of such policies upon our business, financial condition and results of operations cannot be predicted.

Previous wording

We regularly evaluate merger and acquisition opportunities with other financial institutions and financial services companies. As a result, negotiations may take place and future mergers or acquisitions involving cash, debt, or equity securities may occur at any time. We would seek acquisition partners that offer us either significant market presence or the potential to expand our market footprint and improve profitability through economies of scale or expanded services. For example, on December 16, 2024, we entered into the Merger Agreement with Penns Woods. The Merger Agreement provides for a business combination whereby Penns Woods will merge with and into the Company, with the Company as the surviving corporation in the merger.

Current wording

We regularly evaluate merger and acquisition opportunities with other financial institutions and financial services companies. As a result, negotiations may take place and future mergers or acquisitions involving cash, debt, or equity securities may occur at any time. We would seek acquisition partners that offer us either significant market presence or the potential to expand our market footprint and improve profitability through economies of scale or expanded services. For example, on July 25, 2025, we acquired Penns Woods Bancorp, Inc. ("Penns Woods").

Previous wording

Loans that were acquired as part of our acquisitions of other depository institutions, such as Penns Woods, were not underwritten or originated in accordance with our credit standards, including environmental matters, and we did not have long-standing relationships with many of these borrowers at the time of acquisition. The acquired loans are re-risked at that date of acquisition based on our credit standards, which can temporarily increase loans classified as special mention and substandard for a period of time until these loans are integrated and conform to our credit standards. Although we reviewed the loan portfolios of each institution acquired as part of the diligence process, and believe that we have established reasonable credit marks with regard to all loans acquired, we may incur losses in excess of the credit marks with regard to these acquired loans, and any such losses, if they occur, may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Current wording

Loans that were acquired as part of our acquisitions of other depository institutions, such as Penns Woods, were not underwritten or originated in accordance with our credit standards, including environmental matters, and we did not have long-standing relationships with many of these borrowers at the time of acquisition. The acquired loans are re-risk rated at that date of acquisition based on our credit standards, which can temporarily increase loans classified as special mention and substandard for a period of time until these loans are integrated and conform to our credit standards. Although we reviewed the loan portfolios of each institution acquired as part of the diligence process, and believe that we have established reasonable credit marks with regard to all loans acquired, we may incur losses in excess of the credit marks with regard to these acquired loans, and any such losses, if they occur, may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Previous wording

Our business strategy includes growth in assets, deposits and the scale of our operations. Achieving our growth targets will require us to attract customers that currently bank at other financial institutions in our market, thereby increasing our share of the market. Our ability to successfully grow will depend on a variety of factors, including our ability to attract and retain experienced bankers, the continued availability of desirable business opportunities, the competitive responses from other financial institutions in our market area and our ability to manage our growth. In order to successfully manage our growth, the Company may need to adopt and effectively implement new or revise existing policies, procedures, and controls, as well as hire additional employees or pay higher salaries to retain existing employees, to maintain credit quality, control costs and oversee the Company’s operations. Growth opportunities may not be available or we may not be able to manage our growth successfully. If we do not manage our growth effectively, our financial condition and operating results could be negatively affected.

Current wording

Our business strategy includes growth in assets, deposits, the scale of our operations and potentially opening new banking locations. Achieving our growth targets will require us to attract customers that currently bank at other financial institutions in our market, thereby increasing our share of the market. Our ability to successfully grow will depend on a variety of factors, including our ability to attract and retain experienced bankers, the continued availability of desirable business opportunities, the competitive responses from other financial institutions in our market area and our ability to manage our growth. In order to successfully manage our growth, the Company may need to adopt and effectively implement new or revise existing policies, procedures, and controls, as well as hire additional employees or pay higher salaries to retain existing employees, to maintain credit quality, control costs and oversee the Company’s operations. Growth opportunities may not be available or we may not be able to manage our growth successfully. If we do not manage our growth effectively, our financial condition and operating results could be negatively affected.

Previous wording

Competition in the banking and financial services industry is intense. We compete with commercial banks, savings institutions, mortgage brokerage firms, credit unions, finance companies, fintech companies, money market funds and other mutual funds, insurance companies, and brokerage and investment banking firms operating locally and elsewhere. Many of these competitors (whether regional or national institutions) have substantially greater resources and lending limits than we have and may offer certain services that we do not or cannot provide. In addition, some have competitive advantages such as the credit union exemption from paying federal income tax. Competitive factors driven by consumer sentiment or otherwise can also reduce our ability to generate fee income, such as through overdraft fees. Our profitability depends upon our ability to successfully compete in our market areas.

Current wording

Competition in the banking and financial services industry is intense. We compete with commercial banks, savings institutions, mortgage brokerage firms, credit unions, finance companies, fintech companies, including those related to digital currencies or cryptocurrencies (including stablecoins), money market funds and other mutual funds, insurance companies, and brokerage and investment banking firms operating locally and elsewhere. Many of these competitors (whether regional or national institutions) have substantially greater resources and lending limits than we have and may offer certain services that we do not or cannot provide. In addition, some have competitive advantages such as the credit union exemption from paying federal income tax. Moreover, competition with fintech companies may be particularly intense, due to, among other things, differing regulatory environments. For example, the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for U.S. Stablecoins Act of 2025 (GENIUS Act) provides a legal framework for stablecoins to be issued in the United States, which may allow new and existing competitors to compete for funds that may have otherwise been deposited with banks, such as Northwest Bank. Competitive factors driven by consumer sentiment or otherwise can also reduce our ability to generate fee income, such as through overdraft fees. Our profitability depends upon our ability to successfully compete in our market areas.

Previous wording

Committee (“ITSC”), both of which are comprised of the most senior members of management, including the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Information Officer (“CIO”), and Chief Operating Officer. The ITSC meets monthly, or more frequently if needed, and the ERMC meets quarterly, or more frequently if needed. Material items related to cybersecurity are reported to the Innovation and Technology and Risk Management Sub-Committees. The Company also engages outside consultants to support its cybersecurity efforts. The directors of the Company do not have significant experience in cybersecurity risk management in other business entities comparable to the Company and rely on members of management, including, but not limited to, the CISO, CIO, Chief Operational Risk Management Officer, Chief Technology Officer and Chief Data Officer, for cybersecurity guidance.

Current wording

The Board of the Company has a Risk Management Committee, consisting of wholly independent directors chartered, among other items, with a focus on cybersecurity risk. Furthermore, management of the Company has both an Enterprise Risk Management Committee and an Operational Risk Management Committee, both of which are comprised of the most senior members of management, including the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Information Officer (“CIO”), and Chief Information Security Officer. The Operating Risk Management Committee and the ERMC meets quarterly, or more frequently if needed. Material items related to cybersecurity are reported to the Risk Management Sub-Committee. The Company also engages outside consultants to support its cybersecurity efforts. The directors of the Company have modest experience in cybersecurity risk management in other business entities comparable to the Company and rely on members of management, including, but not limited to, the CISO, CIO, Chief Operational Risk Management Officer, Chief Technology Officer and Chief Data Officer, for cybersecurity guidance.

Previous wording

The economy is subject to worldwide events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and Europe, as well as domestic events, any or all of which could impact inflationary pressures and interest rates to dampen demand. These and other political and market developments are affecting and could continue to affect consumer confidence levels and cause adverse changes in loan payment patterns, causing increases in delinquencies and default rates, which may impact our charge-offs and the provision for credit losses. Changes in the financial services industry and the effects of current and future law and regulations that may be imposed in response to future market developments also could negatively affect us by restricting our business operations, including our ability to originate or sell loans, and adversely impact our financial performance.

Current wording

The economy is subject to worldwide events, such as geopolitical tensions in Europe, the Middle East, and Latin America, as well as domestic events, any or all of which could impact inflationary pressures and interest rates to dampen demand. The current U.S. administration has implemented rapid shifts in macroeconomic policies, such as those relating to trade restrictions and tariffs, which have created concerns over an increase in inflation and a slowdown in economic growth. These and other political and market developments are affecting and could continue to affect consumer confidence levels and cause adverse changes in loan payment patterns, causing increases in delinquencies and default rates, which may impact our charge-offs and the provision for credit losses. Changes in the financial services industry and the effects of current and future law and regulations that may be imposed in response to future market developments also could negatively affect us by restricting our business operations, including our ability to originate or sell loans, and adversely impact our financial performance.

Previous wording

There continues to be concern, including on the part of our regulators, regarding climate change and its impacts. Climate change could manifest as a financial risk to us either through changes in the physical climate or from the process of transitioning to a low-carbon economy. Both physical risks and transition risks associated with climate change could have negative impacts on the financial condition or creditworthiness of our customers, and on its exposure to those customers. Physical risks include the increased frequency or severity of acute weather events, such as floods, wildfires and tropical cyclones, and chronic shifts in the climate, such as persistent changes in precipitation levels, rising sea levels, or increases in average ambient temperature. Transition risks arise from societal adjustment to a low-carbon economy, such as changes in public policy, adoption of new technologies or changes in consumer preferences towards low-carbon goods and services. These risks could also be influenced by changes in the physical climate.

Current wording

There continues to be concern, including on the part of state regulators, regarding climate change and its impacts. Climate change could manifest as a financial risk to us either through changes in the physical climate or from the process of transitioning to a low-carbon economy. Both physical risks and transition risks associated with climate change could have negative impacts on the financial condition or creditworthiness of our customers, and on its exposure to those customers. Physical risks include the increased frequency or severity of acute weather events, such as floods, wildfires and tropical cyclones, and chronic shifts in the climate, such as persistent changes in precipitation levels, rising sea levels, or increases in average ambient temperature. Transition risks arise from societal adjustment to a low-carbon economy, such as changes in public policy, adoption of new technologies or changes in consumer preferences towards low-carbon goods and services. These risks could also be influenced by changes in the physical climate.

Previous wording

Further, there is increased scrutiny of climate change-related policies, goals and disclosures. Our stakeholders may disagree with these policies and goals or, conversely, believe that these policies and goals are insufficient. This may lead to a decrease in demand for our products and services or damage to our reputation. We may also incur additional costs and require additional resources as we evolve our strategy, practices and related disclosures with respect to these matters. In addition, there are and will continue to be challenges related to capturing, verifying, analyzing and disclosing climate-related data that is subject to measurement uncertainties.

Current wording

Further, there is increased public, investor, activist, legislative, and regulatory scrutiny of climate change-related policies, goals and disclosures. Our stakeholders may disagree with these policies and goals or, conversely, believe that these policies and goals are insufficient. This may lead to a decrease in demand for our products and services or damage to our reputation. We may also incur additional costs and require additional resources as we evolve our strategy, practices and related disclosures with respect to these matters. In addition, there are and will continue to be challenges related to capturing, verifying, analyzing and disclosing climate-related data that is subject to measurement uncertainties.

Previous wording

A number of factors or combinations of factors could require us to conclude in one or more future reporting periods that an unrealized loss that exists with respect to these and other securities constitutes a credit related impairment, which could result in material losses to us. These factors include, but are not limited to, failure by the issuer to make scheduled interest payments, the issuer of the securities and their creditworthiness, any changes to the rating of the security and any adverse conditions specifically related to the security that would render us unable to forecast a full recovery in value. In addition, the fair values of securities could decline if the overall economy and the financial condition of some of the issuers deteriorates and there remains limited liquidity for these securities. During the year ended December 31, 2024, we incurred other comprehensive losses of$6 million related to net changes in unrealized holding losses in the available-for-sale investment securities portfolio.

Current wording

A number of factors or combinations of factors could require us to conclude in one or more future reporting periods that an unrealized loss that exists with respect to these and other securities constitutes a credit related impairment, which could result in material losses to us. These factors include, but are not limited to, failure by the issuer to make scheduled interest payments, the issuer of the securities and their creditworthiness, any changes to the rating of the security and any adverse conditions specifically related to the security that would render us unable to forecast a full recovery in value. In addition, the fair values of securities could decline if the overall economy and the financial condition of some of the issuers deteriorates and there remains limited liquidity for these securities. During the year ended December 31, 2025, we incurred other comprehensive income of$34 million related to net changes in unrealized holding losses in the available-for-sale investment securities portfolio.

Previous wording

Our municipal bond portfolio may be impacted by the effects of economic stress on state and local governments. At December 31, 2024, we had $69 million invested in debt obligations of states, municipalities and political subdivisions (collectively referred to as our municipal bond portfolio). We also had $204 million of loans outstanding to municipalities and political subdivisions. State and local governments may experience financial stress due to: (i) declining revenues; (ii) large unfunded liabilities to government workers; and (iii) entrenched cost structures. Additionally, the debt-to-gross domestic product ratios for the majority of states have been deteriorating due to, among other factors, declines in federal monetary assistance. These challenges have led to speculation about the potential for a significant deterioration in the municipal bond market, which could materially affect our results of operations, financial condition and liquidity. We may not be able to mitigate the exposure in our municipal portfolio if state and local governments are unable to fulfill their obligations. The risk of widespread issuer defaults may also increase if there are changes in legislation that permit states, or additional municipalities and political subdivisions, to file for bankruptcy protection or if there are judicial interpretations that, in a bankruptcy or other proceeding, lessen the value of any structural protections.

Current wording

Our municipal bond portfolio may be impacted by the effects of economic stress on state and local governments. At December 31, 2025, we had $90 million invested in debt obligations of states, municipalities and political subdivisions (collectively referred to as our municipal bond portfolio). We also had $239 million of loans outstanding to municipalities and political subdivisions. State and local governments may experience financial stress due to: (i) declining revenues; (ii) large unfunded liabilities to government workers; and (iii) entrenched cost structures. Additionally, the debt-to-gross domestic product ratios for the majority of states have been deteriorating due to, among other factors, declines in federal monetary assistance. These challenges have led to speculation about the potential for a significant deterioration in the municipal bond market, which could materially affect our results of operations, financial condition and liquidity. We may not be able to mitigate the exposure in our municipal portfolio if state and local governments are unable to fulfill their obligations. The risk of widespread issuer defaults may also increase if there are changes in legislation that permit states, or additional municipalities and political subdivisions, to file for bankruptcy protection or if there are judicial interpretations that, in a bankruptcy or other proceeding, lessen the value of any structural protections.

Previous wording

Within our investment portfolio, we have a significant amount of corporate debt and mortgage-backed securities issued by companies in the financial services sector. Given current market conditions, this sector has an enhanced level of credit risk.

Current wording

Within our investment portfolio, we have corporate debt and mortgage-backed securities issued by companies in the financial services sector. Given current market conditions, this sector has an enhanced level of credit risk.

Previous wording

As the financial services industry evolves, consumers may find debit financial services to be less attractive than traditional or other financial services. Consumers might not use debit card financial services for any number of reasons, including the general perception of our industry. If consumers do not continue or increase their usage of debit cards, including making changes in the way debit cards are loaded, our operating revenues and debit card deposits may remain at current levels or decline. Any projected growth for the industry may not occur or may occur more slowly than estimated. If consumer acceptance of debit financial services does not continue to develop or develops more slowly than expected or if there is a shift in the mix of payment forms, such as cash, credit cards, and debit cards, away from our products and services, it could have a material adverse effect on our financial position and results of operations.

Current wording

As the financial services industry evolves, consumers may find debit card services to be less attractive than traditional or other financial services. Consumers might not use debit card services for any number of reasons, including the general perception of our industry. If consumers do not continue or increase their usage of debit cards, including making changes in the way debit cards are loaded, our operating revenues may remain at current levels or decline. Any projected growth for the industry may not occur or may occur more slowly than estimated. If consumer acceptance of debit card services does not continue to develop or develops more slowly than expected or if there is a shift in the mix of payment forms, such as cash, credit cards, and debit cards, away from our products and services, it could have a material adverse effect on our financial position and results of operations.

Previous wording

Provisions in our articles of incorporation and bylaws may prevent or impede holders of our common stock from obtaining representation on our Board of Directors and may make takeovers of Northwest Bancshares, Inc. more difficult. As a result, our stockholders may not have the opportunity to participate in such a transaction, which could provide a premium over the prevailing price of our common stock. The provisions that may discourage takeover attempts or make them more difficult include that our Board of Directors is divided into three staggered classes. A classified board makes it more difficult for stockholders to change a majority of the directors because it generally takes at least two annual elections of directors for this to occur. Our articles of incorporation include a provision that no person will be entitled to vote any shares of our common stock in excess of 10% of our outstanding shares of common stock. This limitation does not apply to the purchase of shares by a tax-qualified employee stock benefit plan established by us. In addition, our articles of incorporation and bylaws restrict who may call special meetings of stockholders and how directors may be removed from office. Additionally, in certain instances, the Maryland General Corporation Law requires a super majority vote of our stockholders to approve a merger or other business combination with a large stockholder, if the proposed transaction is not approved by a majority of our directors.

Current wording

Provisions in our articles of incorporation and bylaws may prevent or impede holders of our common stock from obtaining representation on our Board of Directors and may make takeovers of the Company more difficult. As a result, our stockholders may not have the opportunity to participate in such a transaction, which could provide a premium over the prevailing price of our common stock. The provisions that may discourage takeover attempts or make them more difficult include that our Board of Directors is divided into three staggered classes. A classified board makes it more difficult for stockholders to change a majority of the directors because it generally takes at least two annual elections of directors for this to occur. Our articles of incorporation include a provision that no person will be entitled to vote any shares of our common stock in excess of 10% of our outstanding shares of common stock. This limitation does not apply to the purchase of shares by a tax-qualified employee stock benefit plan established by us. In addition, our articles of incorporation and bylaws restrict who may call special meetings of stockholders and how directors may be removed from office. Additionally, in certain instances, the Maryland General Corporation Law requires a super majority vote of our stockholders to approve a merger or other business combination with a large stockholder, if the proposed transaction is not approved by a majority of our directors.

Previous wording

As of December 31, 2024, we held $618 million of deposits from municipalities throughout Pennsylvania, New York, Ohio, and Indiana. These deposits may be more volatile than other deposits. If a significant amount of these deposits were withdrawn within a short period of time, it could have a negative impact on our short-term liquidity and have an adverse impact on our earnings.

Current wording

As of December 31, 2025, we held $700 million of deposits from municipalities throughout Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Indiana. These deposits may be more volatile than other deposits. If a significant amount of these deposits were withdrawn within a short period of time, it could have a negative impact on our short-term liquidity and have an adverse impact on our earnings.

Previous wording

We must maintain sufficient liquidity to respond to the needs of depositors and borrowers. As such, we utilize a diverse set of funding sources in addition to core deposits. As we continue to grow, we are likely to become more dependent on these sources, which may include FHLB advances, proceeds from the sale of loans, federal funds purchased and brokered certificates of deposit. Adverse operating results or changes in industry conditions could lead to difficulty or an inability to maintain timely access to these additional funding sources. Our financial flexibility will be materially constrained if we are unable to maintain our access to funding or if adequate financing is not available to accommodate future growth at acceptable interest rates. If we are required to rely more heavily on more expensive funding sources to support future growth, our revenues may not increase proportionately to cover our costs. In this case, our operating margins and profitability would be adversely affected.

Current wording

We must maintain sufficient liquidity to respond to the needs of depositors and borrowers. As such, we utilize a diverse set of funding sources in addition to core deposits. As we continue to grow, we are likely to become more dependent on these sources, which may include FHLB advances, proceeds from the sale of loans and securities, federal funds purchased and brokered certificates of deposit. Adverse operating results or changes in industry conditions could lead to difficulty or an inability to maintain timely access to these additional funding sources. Our financial flexibility will be materially constrained if we are unable to maintain our access to funding or if adequate financing is not available to accommodate future growth at acceptable interest rates. If we are required to rely more heavily on more expensive funding sources to support future growth, our revenues may not increase proportionately to cover our costs. In this case, our operating margins and profitability would be adversely affected.