KBRA Affirms Stable Investment-Grade Ratings for Banner Corporation (BANR)

KBRA has affirmed stable investment-grade ratings for Banner Corporation and its subsidiary, Banner Bank. Banner's long-term outlook is rated "Stable" due to its strong financial track record and experienced management. The senior unsecured debt rating remains at BBB+, while the subordinated debt is rated BBB and short-term debt holds a K2 rating. Banner Bank's deposits and senior unsecured debt ratings are A-, with subordinated debt rated BBB+ and short-term deposits and debt rated K2.

WALLA WALLA, Wash. — Kroll Bond Rating Agency, LLC (KBRA) has affirmed stable investment-grade ratings for Banner Corporation (NASDAQ GSM: BANR) and its subsidiary, Banner Bank. The long-term outlook for both entities remains "Stable," reflecting their strong financial track record and experienced management team. The senior unsecured debt rating for Banner Corporation stands at BBB+, while the subordinated debt is rated BBB and the short-term debt holds a K2 rating. Banner Bank's deposit and senior unsecured debt ratings are A-, with subordinated debt rated BBB+ and short-term deposits and debt rated K2 [1].

Mark Grescovich, President and CEO of Banner Corporation, expressed satisfaction with the ratings affirmation. "We are pleased to receive KBRA’s affirmation of our investment grade rating," he said. "This rating reinforces our position as a reliable source of capital for our clients across all economic cycles and change events. It also reflects our financial strength and stability, validating our consistent performance and sound credit practices."

According to KBRA, the ratings are supported by Banner's highly experienced management team executing a "higher touch" commercially oriented banking model over a reasonably broad geographic footprint. The agency also noted that Banner's solid track record of earnings is enhanced by a low cost, peer-leading funding profile, which includes a core deposit base that reflects favorable characteristics in terms of cost, geographic diversification, and composition.

Banner Corporation is a $16.2 billion bank holding company operating a commercial bank in four Western states through a network of branches offering a full range of deposit services and business, commercial real estate, construction, residential, agricultural, and consumer loans. Visit Banner Bank online at www.bannerbank.com [2].

References:
[1] https://www.stocktitan.net/news/BANR/kbra-affirms-ratings-for-banner-iiuvdd8lk8jv.html
[2] https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250708023187/en/KBRA-Affirms-Ratings-for-Banner-Corporation